Heavenly Days

W's Baptism

2012-01-19T20:42:00.000-05:00

These days I'm into just blogging pictures because, well, it's faster...so here are some pics of W's baptism this past Sunday. It was a sweet sweet baptism Sunday at our church. I pray for his (and our little munchkins') salvation daily and for them to not know a day without Jesus.

As good of a family photo as we could get

W's Godparents

The boys

The delish food - thank you Mom for all your help

5.5 months

2012-01-04T09:31:00.000-05:00

Sorry it's been a while since a post...but life happens. Here is a sweet pic of W at 5 1/2 months. He is tripodding! And he continues to be the sweetest most smiley baby. I heart him...

It's beginning to look...

2011-12-16T09:36:00.001-05:00

alot like Christmas!

Our tree with 2000 lights

Tripodding

Jesse Tree ornament making

Gingerbread cookie decorating

Love Christmas wreaths

Picking out the perfect tree

Advent

Throw in a 5 yo check-up (Dr. V is showing C his family)

...and a little throw-up bug :(

A few from Turkey Day

2011-12-12T06:00:00.003-05:00

Here are a cute few I got (from my iPhone and my other camera) on turkey day. My dad came up for the weekend, and we also had our neighbors over. Jacob was on-call, but was home by mid-afternoon to get ready for our afternoon meal. It was the first-ever turkey day dinner I prepared all by myself (well, a few little munchkins helped too). I'm sure my mom and mother-in-law were quite tired of hearing all my questions about giblets and sweet potatoes, but I wanted it to be perfect. Everything was great I might say, the bird, cranberry congealed salad, nutty buddy (sweet potato casserole), green bean casserole, rolls, wine, desserts and more. The gravy was the only epic fail...maybe next year!

Little hands helping prepare the dressing

Watching a little football

THE dressing

Waiting...and basting

Voila!

My little turkey lurkey

Picture with Grandad

Thankful on Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T09:19:00.000-05:00

Life in iPhone Pictures

2011-11-22T09:41:00.002-05:00

I just got an iPhone about a month ago, and at first I didn't see all the hype about it. Now I'm hooked! What more would you want at your fingertips than a camera, text messaging (to converse with busy husband throughout the day), and the game Words With Friends? Here are some cute ones I downloaded recently.

Dropping off Samaritan's Purse, Operation Christmas Child. Thank you to GM and GF for such a neat way to introduce our children to giving to those in need. They were so proud of the boxes. (Please disregard F's mismatching shoes. We were trying to get to the church before it closed).

Here we are at the Verizon store, getting the new iPhone. F with a cute silver tutu and balloon in hand was asking me why I had a new phone. And cute little W smiling in the background.

Afternoon at the library. I like these shots because it gives a glimpse of their current interests. C LOVES to read, F loves the computer and anything techie reclated, and W loves to sleep.

F and her sweet friend Cate at a cute cute farm birthday party, complete with pony rides, a hayride, and friends.

C's birthday breakfast

I love a baby in white.

F helping me make muffins. We think she might be a lefty!

C and F singing at their Day School program this past Sunday during the church service.

Gearing up for Turkey Day!

2011-11-18T13:08:00.000-05:00

C's Superhero Party

2011-11-11T16:33:00.000-05:00

Here are the latest pictures from C's Superhero party. He turned 5 this past Wednesday! The party was so fun, and he told me that everything looked so pretty. I loved how some balloons, flowers and cupcakes were so special to him.

Happy Halloween!

2011-11-01T15:52:00.000-04:00

Here is a random assortment from the Halloween festivities - medical auxiliary playgroup's costume parade, Trick-or-treating in our neighborhood, and carving pumpkins!

Disney on Ice

2011-10-30T22:11:00.000-04:00

Last Thursday, I took the older two on a date to see Disney on Ice. I was unsure if they would enjoy the show since we haven't seen many of the Disney movies, but thanks to Disney mass marketing of their princesses and Pixar movies, C & F knew all the characters (except Pinocchio). They had a blast. Here are some before and after pictures. PS - I didn't take my camera into the show in fear of it being confiscated.

This is what I get when I ask Charles to "smile"

A little better

And...we're done

These two fellas had a nice little home date.

Introducing Minnie!

And Buzz Lightyear!

3.5 months

2011-10-27T12:56:00.000-04:00

Visit from the Fire Department

2011-10-25T08:21:00.000-04:00

Last Wednesday, C and F's school had a visit from the fire department to help learn about community helpers. W and I ventured up to there to check it out and snap some pics.

Teaching the kiddos not to be scared of this guy in a fire.

Waiting in line to use the water hose. How much do I love those little red boots?!

C's turn!

Now Fran's

Mr. Fireman posing for a picture

C's teacher makes them walk everywhere with a "bubble" in their mouth so they won't be loud. I think it looks pretty silly, but it works. With 8 boys and 4 girls, she runs a tight ship.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-19T10:51:00.001-04:00

Citadel Parade

2011-10-11T14:29:00.001-04:00

We made our way downtown to see the weekly Citadel Parade, and it was a sight to be enjoyed. I absolutely love taking the kids to see this tradition. Jacob went with us last year (my pics from last year were better, see here, but I did have an extra little bundle to keep me occupied). This year he was working hard in the cath lab so he couldn't make it. Instead, we met up with our fun playgroup, and they kids had a blast.

(

Not fond of the cannons

More cannons

Girl Talk

Checking out something interesting

Cuteness

Pushups after the parade

Grandparents Day at School

2011-10-05T19:34:00.000-04:00

Since both sets of grandparents live out of town, we had to improvise with the parentals. It was so fun to see the children at their school, in their classrooms, with their friends. Here are some sweet pictures.

My Little Superheroes

2011-09-27T11:50:00.000-04:00

Related Much?

2011-09-23T10:20:00.000-04:00

His Many Faces (at 2 months)

2011-09-16T17:31:00.003-04:00

Labor Day Weekend

2011-09-12T10:36:00.001-04:00

Whit took his first road trip to Augusta a few weekends ago to meet most of his aunts, uncles and cousins. We had a great time visiting with family as always.

Reading a good book after church

Breakfast out on the patio

Baby Ian and Aunt Miriam

Coolest racetrack ever

First smiles

Ariel

Oh yes, and my birthday falls on Labor Day weekend... Jacob makes my cake every year.

Taste tester for the birthday cake remnants

It was as yummy as it looked

This man is a nut, and I love him for this

Holding babies again

The newest cousins, William and Whit, just 5 weeks apart. William was not happy about picture taking during his feeding.

LOVE this picture

And this boy

and them

Smitten

2011-09-06T14:27:00.002-04:00

First Day of School!

2011-09-01T13:43:00.000-04:00

Why I love my husband

2011-08-25T19:46:00.000-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-17T14:29:00.000-04:00

Tired Boys

2011-08-09T13:26:00.000-04:00

First Week of Real Life

2011-08-05T13:45:00.001-04:00

This was the first week sans help (no Nana and no Grandmother). I was a little nervous to have three at home in this heat, but I must say that we had a great week. Charles had soccer camp in the morning while I had the two birds with me running errands or doing chores at home. We all took naps in the afternoon and had wonderful meals brought to us in the evening (okay, this part might not be real life). We also had lots of fun visitors to oh and ah over new baby. Jacob had a few late nights, but overall he was home at a reasonable time. Life is good, and I'll just take it one day at a time!

Here are our three birds...

Last day of Upward Soccer Camp

Hanging out with Mom in the mornings

Doing what newborns do best

Happy Birthday!

2011-07-30T12:07:00.001-04:00

Happy 3rd Birthday Sweet Frances! We started out her day with a horrible stomach bug at 4am this morning so party cancelled. She is fine now, but we definitely don't want to infect anyone. She got a new bicycle and was so excited to try it out. Here is a picture below...will post more of her special day next week as we capture more moments.

Two Weeks

2011-07-27T14:23:00.000-04:00

First Bath

2011-07-21T17:47:00.000-04:00

Pretty self-explanatory, before bath...

During...

After...with a few sister kisses

All clean!

T3 is here!

2011-07-17T11:41:00.001-04:00

Sorry I have not updated blog, but we've had a very important event in our household...the birth of Andrew Whittington on Tuesday, July 12th at 1:39 pm (to be exact). He is the tiniest of our three, 7 lbs. 4 oz. and was 20" long. We came home on Friday and are in full swing with new little baby and two VERY excited siblings to help. I hope the excitement continues this way for quite a while. My mom is here helping out, and it is so nice to have Jacob home this weekend to tag-team the children. We went to the pool yesterday (the four of us, not baby) and are trying to keep C & F busy and in a good routine. Jacob is at church with them right now while the baby is sleeping soundly in the bouncy seat by my side. So far, he has had one really rough night at home, but last night was so much better...praise the Lord. I will take one night at a time. He is nursing great and we are all trying to take naps for sanity. Here are a few pictures to show off the newest Townsend!

First bath

All cleaned up

Loved the hospital bed (and M&M's from the gift shop)

Admiring his second son

Meeting his brother and sister

The Fourth with Friends

2011-07-09T15:16:00.000-04:00

Here are some pics of how we spent our 4th of July. Jacob was on-call Friday through Sunday, but he had Monday off! So, we went to our neighbor's pool in the morning and to a friend's cookout that afternoon. Then we went home and shot off a few fireworks in our driveway, in true South Carolinian style.

Pawleys Island

2011-07-06T09:30:00.001-04:00

We took a mini family vacay to Litchfield/Pawleys Island to get away just the four of us before T3's arrival (hopefully next week). We had the best time just playing on the beach and in the pools. Kind of strange to go another beach besides the Charleston ones, but it was nice to get away from distractions at home. At Litchfield, we were just steps from the beach and had access to three pools right outside our condo, including a lazy river. The kids had a blast, Jacob got some much needed rest, and I was happy to spend my days cooling off in the water. I know you are tired of seeing pool and beach pictures, but that has been our summer thus far - second half will be a different story!

Practicing his new swimming skills

Playing with Daddy

The wonderful lazy river

Their treasures they scored at dinner out one night

One More Year!

2011-07-01T16:07:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, Jacob officially completed his cardiology training, but have no fear, he signed up for just one final year in interventional cardiology. I guess you could call it his sub-sub-specialty. When it's all said and done, we will have been doing this medical training gig for 12 years. We had a mini-celebration last night complete with balloons, yummy mexican food, and his new favorite beer, Dogfish Head beer. After watching a documentary one night called Beer Wars (we turned off cable and now just get Netflix), he has decided to support the local breweries over the giants such as Anheuser Busch...but I digress. Back to the subject - We are so proud of you Jacob, and here is to one last year!

Swim Lessons

2011-06-27T11:28:00.000-04:00

Here's what we have been up to the past two weeks - swim lessons. And Charles has learned how to swim! We definitely need more practice, but it is so nice to have another skill under our belt, especially when it involves their safety. Frances is doing well too, just enjoying being in a class with her big brother. These lessons are through Charleston County. I had to arrive about an hour early on the day registration started, but it has been well worth the $20 for 8 lessons!

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T13:41:00.001-04:00

Just wanted to wish Jacob a very Happy Father's Day. He is such a devoted father who spends quality time with the kids reading numerous books, building countless Lego cars, playing with My Little Ponies, and being Daddy Shark in the swimming pool. With his demanding schedule at work, he somehow manages to make it home in time to say prayers and go over the day with the children before bed. He disciples our children through actions and words. He helps me carry the load and is so excited about our #3 on the way (less than a month!). I could not ask for a better partner in this wonderful family and am so proud of the father he has become. We love you Jacob and look forward to our vacation week coming up!

Memorial Day Weekend

2011-06-13T12:45:00.000-04:00

Here are a few from Memorial Day Weekend. We had originally planned to go visit Jacob's aunt and uncle at Lake Guntersville in Alabama until I got the red light from my OB. She didn't think traveling 7+ hours at 34 weeks would be prudent. So, we decided to stay here...and we had so much fun. We enjoyed C's soccer game on Saturday (separate post on soccer to come), church and swimming at the neighbor's pool on Sunday, and then relaxing at the beach with the Jackson 5 family on Monday. We couldn't have asked for a better weekend.

Sea Turtle Release

2011-06-06T17:17:00.000-04:00

This past Friday we went to the Sea Turtle Release at Kiawah. Eight rehabilitated green sea turtles and one loggerhead were released back into the ocean, and it's always an exciting event.

One of the green sea turtles that had been part of a cold stun off the coast of the Carolinas

Charles in awe

Dawsey, the 200 pound loggerhead

Frances taking it all in

Another one of the cold stunned turtles

Now back to the sand

Enjoying the release with friends

Can't go to the beach without playing in the water

34 Weeks

2011-06-02T13:58:00.000-04:00

Here is the most recent prego pic taken this past Sunday. I am now 34 weeks. I feel great except for that feeling of exhaustion and nesting desire at the same time. I've been trying to deep clean every room and finish C's and F's baby books. I have done all the writing, but trying to upload and order photos to go in the books.

I am so ready to meet this little one - so ready for the kids to meet their newest sibling. I wonder how they will react? We moved the two of them into the same room a month ago, and they absolutely love it. It makes for a longer time to get them down for naps and night time, but I love seeing two cute little bodies asleep in the same room. We moved them to the back of the van too. Charles thinks he is big stuff!

Happy Memorial Day!

2011-05-29T16:07:00.001-04:00

No big plans this Memorial Day Weekend except enjoying the beautiful weather and beach here in C-town. We hope you have a safe weekend, and we also want to send a huge thank you to all those who have served and continue to serve our country!

Claire Dress

2011-05-23T08:54:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to post a picture of Frances wearing her "Claire Dress". It was passed down to us from our dear friends who are now serving in Kenya until October. We think of their family every time we wear it. We miss you Shirley family, and can't wait to see you soon!

Babymoon

2011-05-16T21:16:00.002-04:00

Finally posting our babymoon to New York in early April. Jacob's parents so graciously offered to keep the kiddos while we had a wonderful trip just the two of us. I never thought I would love NYC so much. It was the perfect getaway - lots of walking, eating, sightseeing, sleeping, and most of all, just being with my husband.

Here are some pics of some of the highlights...

Sunset cruise with a great view of the city

Fun date nights

Top of the Empire State Building at night

Rockefeller Center

With more great views

Taking in a show

Lots of rides in these

Central Park

Complete with a carriage ride {at my request}

MoMA, Met, and Natural History Museums

And finally getting to see Tim Keller preach at Redeemer Presbyterian Church

Nine

2011-05-11T13:29:00.000-04:00

Happy nine year anniversary Jacob!

It all started here over 12 years ago...

And now we are here...

With many memories and monumental occasions in between...

Friend's Wedding - 2003

Switzerland, 2003

Med School Graduation, 2004

Goodbye Augusta. Hello Birmingham! Our first house - May 2004

Switzerland & Germany trip - June 2004

Africa - November 2005

Sister's wedding and pregnant with Charles - July 2006

Bringing home Baby Charles - November 2006

Charles' Baptism - March 2007

C's First Birthday - November 2007

Pregnant with Frances - April 2008


Goodbye Birmingham - May 2008

Hello Charleston! June 2008


Welcome Baby Frances! July 2008

Frances' Baptism - November 2008

Christmas 2008

Frances is One - July 2009

Brother's Wedding - February 2010

Less glamorous vacations after babies, but just as fun and memorable! June 2010

Hilton Head - July 2010

Newly pregnant with T3 - December 2010

Even more pregnant with T3 - April 2011

Babymoon - New York City - April 2011

I cannot imagine taking this adventurous road with anyone else, and I cannot wait to see what the next 50 years holds!

A Bit of Charleston

2011-05-09T09:26:00.000-04:00

Here are a few photos of downtown Charleston captured during our first photography class outing.

Dock Street Theater

St. Philip's Church

St. Philip's Church Graveyard

Pineapple Fountain

Iron Work Detail

Masters 2011

2011-05-06T14:28:00.000-04:00

Yes, I'm backing it up again....this time to the beginning of April. I met mom in Augusta, and we hung out at the Masters for the day. I had never been, and it was very bit as beautiful and amazing as I had heard it was. The pimento cheese sandwiches were my favorite, but I didn't get to indulge in their $3 beer. Maybe next year!

And two of my dear friends, Anne Wimberly and Rachel kept the kids for the day (one did morning and the other afternoon) while I could go play with my mom. Thank you girls! I had such a relaxing and enjoyable day. I hope to return the favor.

Beach Season

2011-04-28T08:37:00.000-04:00

Below are some pictures of one of our first beach outings of the season. Charles was completely fascinated with the baby sand crabs, and Frances wanted to jump in the waves. I'm trying in as much beach time as possible...before T3 makes an appearance in mid-July.

He Is Risen!

2011-04-24T08:17:00.000-04:00

More Easter pics to come soon, but until then, we are very thankful for Him!

No Training Wheels

2011-04-22T16:38:00.000-04:00

I seem to be working in reverse chronological order these days. Right before heading to Albany to visit Nana, we decided Charles was ready to take off his training wheels. He has been ready for a while, but we are just now getting around to it. We started off in the front and back yards, and he did great. The only issue is that he isn't tall enough to reach the ground. We are still working on his dismounting technique, and on this particular day when I wanted to take pictures, he insisted on wearing his backpack.

Annual SOWEGA Trip

2011-04-19T15:20:00.003-04:00

We took our annual SOWEGA trip to visit Nana {and throw in a baby shower for my sister-in-law} a few weeks ago. We always pack in a ton in the short time we are there, and we always have so much fun with our Nana {and her cat Nora}.

This is the perfect picture of what South Georgia looks like - the trucks, the trees, the sunset.

We drove by my grandmother's old house in Cuthbert where my mother was raised.

The highlight of our trip was visiting Grandad in Cuthbert and going on site to watch timber being cut down. And Mr. C got to help drive a bulldozer! C was quite concerned when he saw the trees being cut down. We coincidentally read The Giving Tree the week before. We assured him that baby trees would be planted in the cut trees' place. He seemed okay with that.

Miss F was not quite ready to take the wheel

This is Grandad's great friend that runs the logging company

We even got to take a small joy ride in the Peterbilt

We had so much fun celebrating the upcoming arrival of Kade, my nephew!

But, we couldn't leave without visiting Chehaw Wild Animal Park and viewing the new meerkat exhibit.

Upward Soccer

2011-04-14T20:16:00.002-04:00

This is C's first year playing an organized sport - and he {we} chose soccer - Upward Soccer to be exact. It's a great Christian sports program for children that I just heard about a year or so ago. They aren't so focused on the winning/losing aspect, which at this age I think is a good thing. There is plenty of time for that later. They concentrate on good sportsmanship, healthy competition, and skill building. And an added bonus, at every practice they have a little devotion time with scripture memory verses led by their coach.

These pictures are from his first soccer practice. He definitely doesn't have the whole concept of the game yet, but he is learning little bits week by week. Don't worry, his actual soccer game pics will be following soon.

The warm-up

On the sidelines

Devotion time

Not happy about Miss F getting the last yogurt covered raisins

Love this face

My sweet Charles

Kids Bridge Run

2011-04-12T12:10:00.002-04:00

I'm back from NYC and fully recharged and refreshed! That will be another post, however. A few weeks ago Charles and Frances participated in their first Cooper River Kids Bridge Run. I was not able to run this year due to a little baby growing in my tummy, and we needed to get Jacob to the airport for a conference in NOLA the same day. Although chaotic, the children had so much fun with all the pregame bounce houses, food, and friends.

A little fun before the race

Fueling up

Miss Lucille fueling up too

On your mark...

The medal

Everyone's a winner!

23 and 25

2011-04-03T15:11:00.001-04:00

Here are of the most recent prego pics of me - weeks 23 and 25. I always feel dresses make me look bigger than I really am {or is it really the camera doesn't lie}. Actually, I really don't care if I look big. I just care about a healthy baby growing inside me and so thankful for he/she on the way. I feel really good right now. I feel pretty cute in my second trimester, have more energy than ever, and I'm nesting away. Most strangers comment on how cute the kiddos are, and then they spot my belly and give this look of wow, you have a lot going on or you are a crazy woman, don't you know about birth control or what are you thinking?. But I do get some looks them remembering what it was like when they had a house full of children or excitement of another baby entering the world.

Jacob is at a conference in NOLA for the next few days, and then he and I will take a babymoon to NYC for the remainder of the week. Can I tell you how excited I am about this?! Jacob and I haven't had an trip alone together since BC {before Charles}, unless you count a two-night stay in NOLA while he was at a conference or another two-night stay while he was interviewing for a job in Pawley's Island. Jacob's parents generously offered to take care of the kids, and we can hardly contain ourselves. But I digress, back to the pregnancy. Here are the latest pictures. I will try to post our recent annual trip to SOWEGA and then NYC when we get back.

23 Weeks

25 Weeks

Easter Egg Tree

2011-03-29T13:03:00.005-04:00

I am not considered a "crafty" person but thought I would test out my artistic genes when I spotted this adorable Martha Stewart Spring Tree at Grandinroad for $89 {not including their $24 eggs}. With an urn from my bookshelf, sticks from the yard, and $6 worth of super cute eggs from Hobby Lobby {thanks to my mom for finding}, I made this fun centerpiece. The kids loved hanging the eggs on the tree but didn't quite understand why a "tree" would go inside. Here is my creation.

Photography Class

2011-03-21T21:29:00.000-04:00

We've had this fancy camera (Nikon D80) for about four years now, and I've taken interest in it for the past two years. When the opportunity came up to take a photography class with some other cardiology fellows' wives, I immediately jumped on it. Penny Hoey {check out her website} has been an amazing {and patient} teacher. I was completely clueless before walking into these lessons. I thought using the portrait and sports settings were advanced functions on my camera. I was completely wrong. Unlearning the ease of the auto function and adapting to the manual setting has been a humbling experience. I never knew adjusting ISO, aperture, and shutter speed were so involved, especially when trying to capture my active little ones. We have taken two classes thus far, with about four to go. Here are some of my first manual photos.

Happy St. Patrick's!

2011-03-18T06:49:00.000-04:00

We were on the lookout for a little leprechaun yesterday.

You want us to look for what? A little green guy? That has a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow?

Okay, I get it, is it that wee little on over there?

Look Charles, the little guy in green!

Nevermind, let's go see if we can find him at the park.

Nope, still no green guy.

What about this cute little baby?

Maybe he is hiding up here.

Or in here.

Or down there.

Mom, I give up, let's just enjoy this sunshine! I think this leprechaun thing is crazy!

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!

The Circus and a Regatta

2011-03-15T15:05:00.003-04:00

Two weekends ago we headed back to GM and GF's house, but this time with husband in tow. So much easier when two parents are doing these weekend trips. We went to Uncle Michael's regatta and then to the circus. I was a little hesitant about the circus with all the action, but the kids had a grand time.

The Circus McGurkus!

Reading about the circus

The finale

My two cuties...and the kids' first taste of cotton candy

Why are those kitty cats walking across a rope?

The Regatta - chilly, but nice to cuddle with GF

Even better with Cracker Jacks

Check out my boo-boo

I want Cracker Jacks too

Chatting with Aunt Julianna in Monaco

Playing in the "cave"

Be A Tourist 2011

2011-03-10T18:57:00.002-05:00

Back in January, we once again took advantage of Charleston's Be A Tourist in Your Own Town Pass. Basically, you pay $50 and can get into a ton of neat touristy plantations and museums during the month of January. Although I was not feeling well during my first trimester, we were able to get out a good bit. We did the usuals such as Charleston Museum, Children's Museum, Fire Museum, and we also ventured into a few new places such as Drayton Hall and the Old Exchange. Here are some pictures.

Middleton Place

I love C's pose

"Old Time Living"

A house once stood here, but it was burned by in the Civil War

Moving on to The Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon

See our church steeple in the background? This city is absolutely beautiful.

Patriot's Point (Home of the USS Yorktown) with Grandfather

it was quite chilly outside

But nice and cozy inside

Magnolia Plantation with friends (even more fun on with mud)

Drayton Hall

Beautiful plantation home built in the 1700's. One of the only plantation homes on the Ashley River to survive the Civil War.

My two little loves

And finally, Charlestowne Landing

On a boat

We even ran into friends in the animal forest

Brave

2011-03-02T07:06:00.001-05:00

I debated whether or not to post a few belly shots of myself, but ultimately decided that I wanted this baby to be better documented than Baby #2. I think I got a total of 3 belly shots with Frances, and none were an actual intended belly shot. So, here are a some pics of my lovely tummy thus far.

14 weeks

15 weeks

18 weeks

20 weeks

And Then...

2011-02-23T08:12:00.015-05:00

There were FIVE!

It's official...we are pregnant...again! Almost 20 weeks to be exact, due the middle of July {perfect timing for a Charleston summer}. I'm sure most of you know already, but I am just now making the big announcement on the blogosphere.

Jacob and I went to the "big" ultrasound yesterday, and baby looks healthy and perfect. This time we decided to not find out the sex. Since we already have one of each, we {meaning I} thought it would be something fun and different to do with this little baby. Going into the ultrasound I thought it was a girl but left feeling it was a boy. Jacob has thought girl all along, so we shall see on "labor" day.

We shared the news with Frances and Charles at about 12 weeks. Charles can't wait to help out when he/she arrives, and Frances, well, she thinks she has a baby in her tummy too. Frances and baby will be about 3 years apart and Charles about 4 1/2 years. Charles thinks my tummy is huge already, so I just told him to wait until I'm about 35 weeks. We plan on moving them into a room together in a month or so. It may make for less sleep and napping, but I think they will love it. And I can't picture Frances as the older sibling/middle child yet. That idea is just so crazy to me that she won't be the baby anymore.

I've held on to the following scripture throughout this entire pregnancy - in fact, sharing this scripture with Jacob is how I told him the big news.

The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.
- Psalm 126:3

I am always amazed at how God has blessed our family and this tiny miracle is no exception. Please pray for the the baby's health and for me to have a continued great pregnancy.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-16T16:28:00.002-05:00

Okay, maybe just a sentence or two. Frances got this tricycle for her second birthday. She has finally gotten the hang of it and enough leg muscle to push it. I think she is so cute on her little bitty trike...especially next to big Charles on his bike. They are so fun to take around the neighborhood.

To Grandmother's House We Go

2011-02-11T09:13:00.005-05:00

This past weekend, I loaded up the kiddos to head to Grandmother and Grandfather's house while Jacob was on his annual cardiology ski trip {their motto: work hard, play hard}. We had a ball in such a quick little visit - breaking geodes, visiting the Columbia Zoo, planting flowers, roasting marshmallows, star gazing and moon watching. And we even fit in a fun girl's dinner out, while Charles and Grandfather had boy time with legos and books (little Frances was none the wiser snuggled up in her bed). This weekend is just what we needed.

Plenty of time outside by the fire

And running around in our pj's {I love his cute little upright posture}

Frances trying to keep up

Planting flowers

We got to enjoy Hannabelle part of the weekend too

Reading about where Aunt Julianna and Uncle Mark live

Next, breaking geodes, one of GF's past hobbies

How neat

Passing of the geodes, so sweet

Now, it's F's turn

A little picture posing, with matching hair clips

Next stop, the zoo!

Showing the elephants his elephant, Elvis

Maybe this will get their attention

A little posing with baby elephant

Where should we go next?

A giraffe feeding sounds good {this was their favorite}

Frances thought it was hilarious

So did Charles

Silly giraffe

Now time to feed Hannabelle

Frances is always looking up to her big brother

Loving their new lunchboxes, thank you GM

More posing with babies

A word with Grandfather before heading out

Saying good-bye to Grandmother

Thank you for a wonderful and memorable weekend!

V-day and Haircuts

2011-02-02T10:18:00.001-05:00

We did a cute little art project yesterday - glitter hearts for Valentine's Day.

Then we practiced cutting straight lines with scissors.

Frances not so much interested in cutting straight lines, just enjoying the scissors. We wonder if she will be a lefty,

While we were on a roll with productivity, we went to the "haircut place" and got Charles's monthly haircut complete with lollipops. Frances hasn't figured out that I cut her hair at home to save a little money, but I try to make hers just as exciting. Here are the "after" shots this morning during breakfast. Looks like I went a little crazy with the scissors on Frances's hair, but I think it turned out quite cute.

Doughnut Day

2011-01-26T08:45:00.002-05:00

Last week we enjoyed a fun playdate at none other than the fab-u-lo-so Krispy Kreme. The kids were pumped to say the least.

Getting down to business.

"Fimished!"

In action after all the sugar.

I'm sure all the other KK customers loved our company.

Seriously, this is how half my photos end up - a big blur of Charles and Frances. They are always on the go. Still pretty cute though.

A Party and Playdate

2011-01-24T09:41:00.000-05:00

To see a glimpse into our munchkin-filled days, check out these blogs that are friends of mine...we went to Finley's 3rd birthday party last week - it was so fun to see all the princess decorations - Frances is major into princesses right now especially Tiana and Belle (even though she has never seen either movie, but gotta love that princess marketing)! The other is from a playdate with Finley and her little brother Jameson, just on a random Wednesday. Sweet little Mills has become one of our new friends too - he is so cute and cute squeezable. I'll be more productive and post some of my own pics soon, but until then, enjoy these!

The Saylors Family - Finley's Birthday

Wallace Family - More of Finley's Birthday

Saylors Family - Playdate with Finley and Jameson

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-19T08:36:00.002-05:00

Thanksgiving 2010

2011-01-18T15:25:00.000-05:00

Alas, I have decided to finally post some of my favorite pictures from Thanksgiving. I was going to wait until I found a way to upload pictures faster, but I can't quite figure it out. We went to Augusta to visit Jacob's parents for Turkey Day. The entire family was there - I think the count is up to 24 now! It was a quick trip, but we got in some great visiting time.

On Thursday before lunch, we got the kiddos outside to burn some energy...

We let the dads take control outside while the girls commanded the inside...

Here is one of the newest additions - isn't she adorable?

And here is another cute niece - only a few months apart from Frances. I wish I could have gotten all of the nieces and nephews, but they were on the go!

Playing a little game of eat the baby inside...

Getting ready for lunch...placing people can be quite a task...

Giving thanks...

After lunch and naps (what is Thanksgiving without a nap), we decided to take a long walk down to the river and roast some marshmallows...

And feed the fish...

And take some family photos...

The weekend had to come to an end. We decided to head to a tree farm to pick out a Christmas tree...

That's all folks!

For the weekend

2011-01-15T10:32:00.000-05:00

Just a typical day in the life of Charles and Frances

I'm a big girl now

2011-01-10T13:34:00.004-05:00

Since we don't have any snow pictures to share, I thought I would fill you in on our latest accomplishment - Frances is potty trained! I am so proud of her - once I really started the strict only underwear and every-hour routine, she got it down within a few days. My goal was to have her out of diapers before 2 1/2, which is the end of this month. We skipped the whole baby potty thing this time. Below is a picture to celebrate the occasion - I'm sure she will thank me for this lovely snapshot later. Rehearsal dinner material perhaps?

What a week!

2011-01-07T18:32:00.003-05:00

Just a glimpse into my hubby's week. It started off with a bang with new cath rotation on Monday, celebrated his birthday on Tuesday, on-call Wednesday night, moonlighting Thursday night and finally ending this evening. I think the kicker was Thursday night. Thank you Jacob for working so hard for our family. I would say he's ready for the weekend - we are too!

Tuesday night

Friday night

Wordless Wednesday...and a Holidays Post coming soon!

2010-12-29T13:56:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving Preview

2010-12-12T17:37:00.000-05:00

Here's a preview of our Thanksgiving spent with Jacob's family in Augusta. As you can tell, we had A LOT of family time. It was quite restful, relaxing (I promise) and always fun to catch up with everyone. Since our July beach trip family photo, the family has grown by one - cute little Ian was born in August. Now there are 9 grandchildren, 7 sibs, 6 married-ins, and the matriarch and patriarch.

Our Dear Aunt Julianna

2010-12-06T16:10:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to have a special post to bid farewell to our Aunt Julianna, one of Jacob's younger sisters. We had the privilege of having her live in Charleston overthe past year while waiting to move overseas to be with her sweet husband, Mark, in London - not a shabby life I might add. The kids loved every minute of spending time with her, and Jacob and I enjoyed having her around as well. She and Jacob became quite the seafood chef extraordinaires, experimenting with everything from oysters rockefeller to blue crabs. And I had some great girl time with her like having fun pedicures and walking the Ravenel bridge. We miss you Julianna, but we know you are where you should be...for now. I guess a husband trumps a brother and sis-in-law! We would love to have both of you back in Charleston any time.

Labor Day 2010

Putting together airplane, November 2010

Ravenel Bridge, Aug 2010

Charleston Museum, Jan 2010

James Island Christmas Lights, Dec 2009

Oysters Rockefeller, yummy!

Kackleberry Farms, Oct 2010

Hilton Head, July 2010

Easter 2010

Edisto, July 2010

Christmas Card Time

2010-12-04T16:01:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again - Christmas card time! The kids and I love checking our mailbox every day to see all the fun and festive Christmas cards. And I'm determined to get ours out a little earlier this year. In the eight years we have been married, we have mailed out holiday photo cards every year (except for one year that we were in Africa) to our family and friends. They are so fun to look back over our past holidays together. This year, I think we will go with Shutterfly for our Christmas cards. They have such a great selection, they are quick, dependable, affordable, and above all, they are top quality. This year they have a ton of designs, and because of this post they are offering me 50 free cards. (If you're a blogger you too can get 50 free cards, find out all of the info here.)

Now thinking about those Christmas Cards. Here are some of my favorite designs.

And finally, this...

I've narrowed it down to a few choices that are so cute, but you will just have to wait and see when you open your mailbox.

Shutterfly also has other great products. I especially love the address labels, desk calendars, and ornaments. Check it out, and have a Merry Christmas!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-01T09:57:00.000-05:00

C's 4th Birthday

2010-11-23T09:50:00.003-05:00

We celebrated C's 4th birthday last weekend with close friends and family. C has really been into camping, so we decided to go with that theme, complete with a backyard tent, owl cupcakes, and s'mores for dessert. He had a wonderful birthday, and yes, I am the mom that says, "I can't believe how fast my baby is growing up!" He is becoming such a big boy. He still loves to read, ride anything with wheels, and his newest fascination is legos. His best friend is his sister, and they play together all the time. I absolutely love how close in age they are. We went in for the dreaded 4 year check up complete with 3 shots, the flu mist, and a finger prick. I think I cried more than he did. He is 41 1/4 inches and 40 pounds. Both are the 75-90%. Needless to say, he is a very healthy boy...exactly what we like to hear!

The Birthday Boy

Early morning birthday presents

Birthday Breakfast

Finishing his favorite series

Legos!

Getting ready for bed

Birthday party!

Checking out the food

Checking out the scooter

Fun stuff

Just happy there's a party

Cornhole!

Owl station

More owls

S'more station

Henry

Playing on the patio

Party favors

Third time to blow out the candles

MB and Grandmother

Halloween...A Little Late

2010-11-19T16:26:00.000-05:00

Pumpkin Patch #2

2010-11-06T15:41:00.000-04:00

Here is our second adventure to the pumpkin patch back in October. Kackleberry Farms in Georgia while visiting grandparents.

Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T20:26:00.000-04:00

More pics to come shortly...until then, Happy Halloween!

Pumpkin Patch #1

2010-10-29T15:25:00.000-04:00

Went to two pumpkin patches this year - one in Charleston with our auxiliary playgroup and one in Augusta while visiting grandparents. Here is the one at Legare Farms in Charleston. It was a hot day, but so much fun.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-27T13:20:00.000-04:00

Citadel Parade

2010-10-22T08:37:00.004-04:00

Last Friday afternoon the kids and I were on our way to our next Charleston adventure - the weekly Citadel Parade. I've always heard how neat it was, so we thought we would give it a try after our daily napping. The weather was so beautiful, and on our way out of the neighborhood, we spotted Jacob driving in from work early...so he was able to join us! The kids loved all the marching and people watching, but not so much the cannons firing off. It is definitely a must-see if you are in the Charleston area and especially if you are a fan of Pat Conroy's Lords of Discipline.

My Cup Runneth Over

2010-10-14T15:20:00.001-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-13T08:24:00.002-04:00

SOWEGA

2010-10-04T16:21:00.001-04:00

Here are some pics from August when I took a trip to visit my mom in Southwest Georgia. Since we aren't around peanuts and tractors every day, I thought it would be the perfect time to let them see what a little bit of the country is like. We had a fun time playing with Nana and catching up with some of my dear friends from high school and their little ones.

Second Birthday

2010-09-20T14:18:00.001-04:00

Sweet little F enjoyed her second birthday at the end of July. We had such a fun time celebrating with her. She is talking up a storm and really just enjoys playing with her big brother. She also loves dolls, babies and all things outdoors. It's fun watching her play as a little girl, but also seeing her interact with Charles and all the make believe and pretending he does. At her 2-year checkup, she was 25 pounds (25%) and 35.5 inches (75%). Here are pictures from her "garden friends" party.

I'm Two!

The cake made by the cake extraordinaire (my husband)

Sweet friends and sweet goddaughter

The only picture of Charles I got the whole night

Juice break

Cute little Cate

The men's section

Cake time

Yummy!

It's easier this way

My sweet mom aka Nana

Morning of her bday - princess Tiana was C's present to F

And a tricycle from Grand dad!