the confessions of mrs.claxton

new toys!

2011-01-28T16:42:00.001-08:00

well hello there...its been a while. Its funny how busy a one year old can keep you! I finally got a new camera! yay! It was 65 and sunny yesterday so Cruz got to play in his wagon he got for his birthday (he loved it he kept saying ooooohhhh!) and I got to play with my camera! it was a productive day for everyone! I'm ready for SPRING! Its supposed to be nice today too so I'm thinking we are going to try and go to the park!

Christmas 2010 part one

2010-12-27T20:38:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas! It's the holiday season a time to be with family and be merry...unfortunately we have ALOT of family and everyone is very spread out over a few states. So we had to break up our Christmas. Santa came to our house in Fayetteville on Christmas eve-eve. Cruz didn't know what to think. I sat him down in front of his toys. He stared at everything for a minute then went straight for the books! Then we all opened presents and Cruz was still trying to play with his books from Santa. I don't blame him for being uninterested in the clothes. We had a great Christmas morning even though it was a few days early.

milk and cookies for Santa!

He was afraid of the busy ball popper! Good thing Santa kept the reciept!

Ooohhh a fire truck!

I'll play you a little tune mom!

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ONE!

2010-12-27T20:15:00.001-08:00

I can't believe it! My sweet little baby boy is 1! It seems like he should just be a few months old. Time really goes quickly. It's crazy! The party went well
There was a great turn out. I think that planning cruz's first birthday might of been more stressful than planning my wedding! There's just way too much pressure! Cruz handled all of the people surprisingly well! He was passed around all afternoon. He loved his cake and didn't waste anytime digging right in! He received soo many gifts...too many! We have toys everywhere! ;) I guess that's part of it! Time to start planning for next year! Haha!

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Thanksgiving!

2010-11-30T20:21:00.001-08:00

Well it's that time of year again...a time of joy & love. Oh and for the Claxtons a time of traveling all over the south to visit family! It's always great to see everyone but it's also very exhausting.
This year for Thanksgiving we went to Texas we had Thanksgiving lunch and dinner with a dessert stop in between. Everyone enjoyed seeing Cruz. It took him a little while to warm up but eventually he was his usual attention loving self.

So here's the rundown....

Lunch at Jerricks fam!

Cruz with his cousin Ava.

Photo shoot with mom

Cruzer was so tired!

Play date with Layton

Ugh. aaand a long drive home. (excuse my finger in the photo) ;)

* thank you to all of the wonderful host and amazing cooks! -

Now bring on CHRISTMAS!!!..wait. I'm not ready!

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11 months

2010-11-16T19:21:00.001-08:00

Baby Cruz is 11 months old!! He's well on his way to becoming a BIG BOY! He is literally in to everything. I don't get much of a break these days. I'm very thankful for nap time! ;)
Cruz can say and wave bye-bye. He says mama, dada and will pretty much copy anything you do. It's really cute. He has 2 bottom teeth and 4 top teeth. He's not walking quite yet but he's very comfortable with walking up and down the couch and around the coffee table with only one hand holding on. I'm sure it won't be long! He's very attached to his mama! ;) if I leave the room. There's a panic going on. I'm really enjoying my little guy, I'm looking forward to his first real Christmas.

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Fall

2010-11-16T19:11:00.001-08:00

Look at this beautiful tree in front of our house...I wish it was this color all year!

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Christmas???

2010-11-09T09:35:00.001-08:00

What? Christmas? It's not that time yet!!!....I can't help myself...when all of the stores start decorating for Christmas. I get so excited and anxious to start decorating! You won't catch me playing any Christmas tunes until mid December but as soon as I can I'm ready to start decorating and I will continue adding and tweaking until December 25th!!! (it drives Jerrick insane!)

Last night I put Cruz's Christmas tree up. It 4' and it's BLACK! I was so excited! I got turquoise, silver and green ornaments and orange glitter tulle at hobby lobby! Cruz was facinated and ready to attack!!!

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Juice boxes

2010-11-09T09:15:00.001-08:00

My birthday card from Stephanie..

This exact thought goes through my head at least once a day! haha ;)
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2010-11-05T13:17:00.001-07:00

Happy birthday to ME!!!

Cruz's first pep rally!

Halloween

2010-11-01T22:49:00.001-07:00

I'm your huckleberry....
Cowboy - costume #2

Cruz decorated his first pumpkin with his hand and foot prints. ;)

I was very proud of my pumpkin!

Lumberjacks! Costume #1

Snow White and the Tooth Fairy.

Family pic

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Monday funday!

2010-09-30T08:16:00.001-07:00

After our looooong game weekend we were so worn out. Neither Jerrick or myself had a voice and I had the pleasure of driving to Russeville and back twice. Once to drop Cruz off on Friday and to pick him up on Sunday. It's about 2hrs there. So that definatly added to my exhaustion! Luckily Jerrick was off Monday so we were able to all be lazy together ;) we lounged around all morning and then while the boys took a nap I went shopping for Cruz some fall clothes and then we took Cruz to the park! It was a nice family day.

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Woooo PIG SOOIE!!!

2010-09-28T08:40:00.001-07:00

This weekend was the Arkansas vs Alabama game. We had such a great time despite the hogs throwing the biggest game of the season away!

Our cute little tailgating area ;)

The babyless couple! Thank goodness for grandmas!

Zachs shoes!

There's nothing like spending your whole paycheck on a new polo and reuining it with a nose bleed!

Kaycee and Brooke

Me and Brooke
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Wilson Park

2010-09-22T10:51:00.000-07:00

We went to the park today.... Cruz just loved the swings! He giggled the whole time ;)

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Summer wrap up..

2010-09-16T15:52:00.001-07:00

Well the last few months of the summer we have been so busy. Traveling almost every weekend so I am behind on my blog post. I'm hoping to sum up the end of our summer in this post!

We took Cruz to the free concert at Gulley Park. He loved it! Everyone that walked by told him how cute he was. So of coarse he loved the attention! ;)

-

Cruz discovered Daddys guitar!

Summer wrap up

2010-09-16T15:48:00.001-07:00

Enjoying the tag from his new outfit...

Sporting a Mohawk!!!

Big boy carseat

Cruz checking his facebook! Haha

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Summer wrap up

2010-09-16T15:38:00.001-07:00

Gram and Papa SPOILING Cruz. They are really good at that! Haha!

Cruz with his cousins Joseph and Kyler

TaylorMADE vintage inspired golf pants. My friend Taylor and I whipped these up one Subday afternoon.

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Summer wrap up

2010-09-16T15:20:00.000-07:00

Vintage flight suit

Tailgating before the HOG game!

TUSK the RAZORBACK

Gram and Cruzer

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Summer wrap up

2010-09-16T14:56:00.001-07:00

Dylan and Cruz getting ready for the draft! lol

Dylan, Cruz and Uncle Zach doing thier fantasy football draft!

Scotts Homecoming game

Cruz with his gigi

Got some new kicks!

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A little of this...a little of that

2010-09-16T14:43:00.001-07:00

Go COWBOYS!!!

Knitted candle cozy!

We drove up to Tulsa to visit some friends. Cruz was amazed by these fountains on the river walk! He was dieing to get down and play in the water ;)..maybe next time Cruzer

Morning reading

2010-07-28T08:34:00.001-07:00

Just reading some books...and playing with his favorite toy...my wisk!!!

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Ortowski wedding

2010-07-25T19:36:00.001-07:00

We went home this weekend to attend our friends Brooke and Coles wedding. This wedding was so great! The ceremony was beautiful. The bride and groom looked perfect....The officiant had some very inspiring outlooks on marriage. Things that I would like to put into effect in my own marriage. The chapel was actually built by the same architect that designed Anthony chapel in Garvan Gardens where Jerrick and I got married and they looked very similar...Needless to say that definatly added to the romantic feeling that you get when attending a wedding. The reception was beyond amazing. Definatly the most elaborate event I've ever been too!
Pink hydrangeas, roses, ranunculuses were every where you looked. There were so many beautiful flowers. The ball room was perfect...On the walls a beautiful gold and pink harlequin wall paper, floor to celing pink and gold silk striped drapes, mirrored columns, large chandeliers, hand beaded table linens, gold chiavari chairs. No detail was left undone. I loved the Little black and gold place cards with Brooke and Coles name on them. On each table were cards with cute little facts about Brooke and Cole. Our card said Brooke and Coles first vacation together was to Cabo San Lucas. So cute!! There was a photo booth that we definatly took full advantage of! I think we went and took pics every hour! lol ;) The band was so fun! They played songs everyone knew and could dance to...I was definatly dancing a little ;)
The food was great as well. Beef tenderloin, Smoked Salmon and king crab with mini lettuce wedges and grilled veggies! YUM!!! Towards the end of the night we were served mini hamburgers, mini French fries and mini milk shakes!
It was a great night! We enjoyed the time catching up with everyone and celebrating Brooke and Coles new life together!!!

Congratulations
Mr. & Mrs. Ortowski!!

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Elmo stare down

2010-07-15T11:26:00.001-07:00

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Cruz's check up

2010-07-14T15:23:00.001-07:00

We had a check up yesterday. You don't usually have a check up during the 7th month but we are a little behind on his shots because the last time Cruz got his shots it was a little traumatic for me so I have been putting off taking him back! This time the experience wasn't as bad. Cruz weighs 19lbs and he is 27 1/4 inches. He again was very into the paper. We go back in 2 months for more shots maybe I can get Jerrick to take him. Although I don't know if I could handle not being there to monitor the situation. haha!

I could feel SOMEONE staring at me!

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2010-07-01T21:07:00.001-07:00

Happy 4th of July! I hope everyone enjoys the long weekend ;)

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Watching Baby Cruz grow...

2010-06-26T01:11:00.001-07:00

Here are just a few pictures of Cruz so that you all can see how much he's growing!

When this happens on a baby it's cute and funny. When it happens on a adult male it's repulsing and inappropriate. haha!

He has recently discovered his feet.

He loves strolling even though it's incredibly hot and his mom is sweating to death. He just wants to GO!!! So of coarse what Cruz wants Cruz gets!!! ;)

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Shopping with Cruz

2010-06-11T23:04:00.001-07:00

Just a quick little post before bed. Our little guy is now 6 months old! I can't even believe it! It seems like time is just flying. He is now sitting up...he's still doesnt have any teeth. I can already tell that he is going to be into everything soon. Right now if it's within his reach...he wants it! Earlier this week we were at the grocery store. Cruz was in the cart in his carrier. I laid my list across his legs. He picked it up and started eating it and tearing it up. Well I needed the list we had just walked into the store. So I took it from him and gave him a toy. I was so surprised when he started throwing a fit! I couldn't believe it. 6 months old and he's already crying to get what he wants? So I found a reciept in my purse and handed him that. He was happy. So I guess Cruz doesn't need toys for the time being he just wants PAPER! haha!

Today for the first time
I let him ride in the cart like a BIG BOY! He loved it. You could totally tell he was proud of himself. ;)

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My new obsession...

2010-06-03T18:56:00.001-07:00

Well pretty much since the day Cruz was born I've been obsessed with taking pics of him. Unfortunatly my iPhone camera just isn't cutting it any more. So I've been looking around for a new camera. I've spent the past few weeks comparing specs Nikon vs. Cannon and I think I'm leaning towards Nikon! Now I just have to start saving...cameras are pricey!

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More FL pics

2010-05-23T18:44:00.001-07:00

Until next time Naples...we will miss you!

Naples!

2010-05-11T13:46:00.001-07:00

We are still in Naples and we are having such a great time. We have done a whole lot of nothin'. It's been so nice. The girls and Cruz have been hanging out at our pool & on the beach the boys have spent most of their time fishing. Needless to say they are in heaven! We fly home on Thursday. I don't want to leave!!!

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Mothers Day!!!

2010-05-09T11:36:00.001-07:00

Today has been a very special day...my very first Mothers Day!!! Jerrick and Cruz woke me up with coffee and a very sweet card. Jerrick always writes me a mini novel ;) we've spent our day getting ready for (my present) our first family vacation to Naples Florida. We are so excited!! We are going with our BFF Taylor, Taylor and Stella. I will post some pics soon. Happy Mothers day to all the special Mothers and Grandmothers in our life. We hope you all have a special day.
xoxo

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Uncle Zach & Aunt Brooke

2010-04-27T10:41:00.001-07:00

Cruz had some visitors last week. Uncle Zach and Aunt Brooke came up for their transfer orientation at The UofA and of coarse to see Cruzer...we had such a great time. We got everything squared away on their apartment and did a little shopping for their first place! Friday night we went to Taylors as usual and I think we might of scared them a little. Lol our Friday night get togethers are always interesting ;) Saturday it was raining but that didn't stop us! We went down town to spring fest and then I took Zach and Brooke to check out all the unique things about Fayetteville. We had so much fun and we did NOT want them to leave. Just a few more weeks and they will be here for good! We are so proud of them for taking the right steps to a successful future! ;)

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Spring!

2010-04-19T10:52:00.001-07:00

Spring is finally here! Cruz really likes it outside. We can't wait to spend more time outdoors. I want to get him a swing
to put on our back porch. We went camping with our friends Taylor, Taylor & Stella and Sean & Whitney. We had such a great time. It was nice to get away and spend some time with good friends. Cruz loved it he just layed in his pack and play and looked at the trees.

He is almost 5 months old. I can't believe it!!! He is a little chubby thing. He weighs 15lbs!

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4 months old!!!

2010-04-08T17:02:00.001-07:00

Little Man is 4 months old today!!! He giggled for the first time yesterday and it was so cute! He is the best baby. He is so easy. He just goes with the flow and really only gets upset when he's hungry. He makes it very easy to think about planning for another one! ;)

I have really been putting off working out in hopes that the baby weight was just going to fall off! HA! Thats obviously not happening. Right before I got pregnant I was probably the skinniest Ive been in a while I would really like to get back to that plus some! So I've finally gotten motivated again. My goal is 30lbs so HERE WE GO!

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My achey breakey heart

2010-03-25T08:33:00.001-07:00

Cruz had his first check up yesterday. He is in the 50th percentile for height and weight. 24" &13lbs! He's growing so fast! He had a great time tearing up the paper on the bench in the Dr's office. He was just kicking and playing when they came in to give him his shots. The nurse said, " you are so cute! You are going to make this so hard!" and he did...When she stuck him it just broke his little heart! I was trying so hard not to cry so I started laughing. Poor little guy ;(

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Our weekend....

2010-03-09T12:10:00.001-08:00

This weekend was great! The weather was nice and we didn't have much on our agenda. Friday we went shopping
to find Cruz a pink shirt for Stellas Pinkalicious party. Finding pink for little boys isn't easy!

Cruz was so good. He really likes riding in his stroller and even though shopping isnt his favorite thing, Jerrick came with us! It was nice to have a extra set of hands. We had fun ;) Saturday of coarse we has sweet Miss Stellas 3rd birthday!

The theme was Pinkalicious. Everything was PINK. It really turned out great. Her mommy did such a good job.

We continued our Saturday evening with a low key evening with great friends at the Suttons.

Sunday we were super productive. We cleaned out and organized the garage, made a donation at salvation army and ran around town doing a little "Sunday driving" as Jerrick likes to call it. It was great, I really enjoyed it. I love my little family.

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Happy Valentines Day!

2010-02-13T12:29:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentines Day!
Love, Cruz XOXO

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2010-02-11T15:31:00.001-08:00

Mr. Cruz is growing so much, getting so big and keeping me very busy! At his last check up he was 11lbs 4oz! The first month was tough learning how to be a mother, wife, daughter & friend. I really enjoy being a Mom. If I had a lot of money and didn't have to gain 20lbs I would have another one soon! Haha! Am I crazy?

We finally have a schedule! He's eating every 3 hours, napping for 1 1/2hrs and sleeping ALL NIGHT! Woohoo!!! The journey to getting him to sleep all night was challenging for me, but so worth it.
He loves laying on his playmat he also likes to lay on the floor on his side and look around or look at his floor mirror and he's a big fan of bath time!

He does not enjoy tummy time. In fact he hates it and he actually just turned over! Which is what reminded me of how big he's getting and how long it's been since my last Cruz update so there you go! ;)

Holding his head up so good!

Turning over action shot!

Yaaaaay!!!!
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Cruz is 4 weeks old!

2010-01-07T20:04:00.000-08:00

3 weeks

terrified of the rattle on his play mat! haha

My Christmas present under the tree ;)

4 weeks old!

We have had a busy past few weeks to say the least. We managed to make it to Texas for Christmas. We of coarse packed our entire house but we made it! Cruz got to meet his Great Grandparents, all of his cousins and his uncle Scott for the first time. Everyone was just as infatuated with him as we are! Last week he had a check up. He is up to 7lbs 10oz. He's tall and skinny! I'm not really sure how Jerrick and I came out with a tall and skinny baby. haha The Dr was very impressed with how strong he is and how well he can hold his head up already! Tomorrow he will be a month old and I can't believe it. I feel like I just had him. I am not going back to work right away so I will get to enjoy staying at home with him. ;)

Cruz Edward Claxton!!!!

2009-12-20T21:23:00.001-08:00

Just a few hours old

Cruz Edward

December 8, 2009

6lbs, 13oz

That's right ladies and gentlemen Cruz Edward is FINALLY here!!! Monday morning December 7th I woke up and my hips were hurting a little bit. I didn't think much of it. I just assumed it was another ache and pain that came along with being pregnant. I was having contractions but nothing too painful (yet) I had my 39 week appt at 10:15 that morning. I hadn't progressed much from my appt the week before. I was dilated 1.5 and 80% effaced. My Dr. recommended that I walk, walk, walk which is what I had been doing. Saturday December 5th we spent hours walking around the mall, Sunday we went on a short hike. Monday after my appt and Dr. Seale recommended that I walk some more. I met up with my friend Taylor and ran errands for the rest of the afternoon. By 4:00 my contractions were starting to hurt and I was pretty uncomfortable. It didn't matter what I did, sitting or standing the contractions wouldn't ease up. So Taylor informs me that I am in labor and I need to get home!!! Before heading home I feel the need to stop at walmart. hahah I just HAD to get a few things because I knew I would be having company VERY soon! I made it home around 6:00 and had a death grip on our kitchen counter during contractions. Jerrrick started timing them they were 8 minutes apart, by 10:00 they were 6 minutes apart and around 1:00 they were 3 - 4 minutes apart so I decided that we had better head to the hospital. I have never been in so much pain in my entire life. I have no idea why I waited so long to go to the hospital. I was moaning, yelling and doing everything I knew to do to breathe through these contractions. I was barely able to walk into the hospital. they checked me immediately and sure enough I was in labor and dilated to a 4!!! Epidural please!!!! The nurse began my blood work for my epidural around 2AM and I was moved into a L&D room. The Anesthesiologist didn't arrive to give me my epidural until 6AM!!! I was already dilated to a 8!!! Even though I had been laboring for 14 hours it was still worth it to have the relief for the remanding 3 hours until I had Cruz. They broke my water around 7:00 and I was ready to push at 9:00. I started pushing at 9:10 and Cruz arrived at 9:20! December 8, 2009 6lbs 13oz - 2o inches long. blonde hair, dark blue eyes...He is so perfect and we are enjoying every minute of being new parents.

more baby stuff

2009-11-14T21:15:00.000-08:00

We have been so busy getting settled in to our new house and preparing for our new arrival. Jerrick painted the nursery (again.) It looks really great! Turquoise walls with a black and white striped ceiling. There should be plenty to look at in there! Everyone has been begging for a bump pic. Here is one from a few weeks ago. I will post a more recent pic very soon ;)

8 months!

I would like to confess

2009-11-14T20:19:00.000-08:00

I have been so busy with moving and preparing for baby that I haven't done any blogging. About a month ago a few great friends threw me a fantastic baby shower in Gainesville. It was really great, I got so many great things and got to catch up with family and friends. The theme was CANDY!!!

wish list

2009-09-18T07:55:00.000-07:00

Here lately my blog has become consumed with all things baby!!! With my birthday fast approaching and maybe my nesting stage is beginning to kick in I have found a few things that will defiantly be on my Birthday/Christmas wish list (all of this of coarse will be behind all of the things I might still need for baby)

I found this dish set at Target for under $50! In our last move quite a few of my plates were broken so I may have to treat myself to these! I was overly excited when I found them because I have been wanting this red mixer for at least 2 years and it all coordinates so perfectly! The mixer however...not quite as affordable.

Dell mini! I don't really need a computer for anything other than blogging, facebook, email and searching the web for things I need! haha So I think that a mini would be perfect ;) They are only $299!

28 week testing

2009-09-16T07:47:00.000-07:00

Monday we went to the Dr. for our 28 week testing aka THE gestational diabetes test! So They gave me this little bottle of orange drink to finish in 10 minutes. At first I thought, "Wow I am really going to have to chug this" and then I took my first drink and it was kind of good. lololol Yes, I kind of liked the orange drink. Don't get me wrong. I don't want to drink it again but, it wasn't as bad as everyone made it sound. It just tasted like flat orange soda. So while Jerrick was timing me I finished off the drink. (it only took me 3 minutes!!!) and then we had to wait for an hour before I could do the blood work. So as we waited and after about 15 minutes I started feeling not so good. I was beginning to get a headache, I was sweating and doing all that I could to keep this drink down. We went out to the car for about 30 minutes and I had the A/C on full blast blowing right on my face which seemed to help. So Finally 10:53 rolls around and its time to have my blood drawn. We make our way back up to the Dr.'s office and I am feeling ok. Not great but ok. I sit down and try and explain to the nurse that nobody can ever get the veins in my arm and they usually always wind up going through my hand. I was really trying to refresh her memory that she had taken my blood once before and she took my word for it and saved both of us the trouble of sticking me multiple times and just went though my hand. This time I wasn't so lucky. She was convinced that she could get this vein in my arm. So here we go.......she sticks me and I am sweating and starting to get tunnel vision I just know that I am about to completely pass out. Then the nurse informs me that the vein collapsed and she is just going to go through my hand. I couldn't vein get mad at this point because I was just focused on not passing out at this point. So the nurse is fanning me and I am completely embarrassed, she brings me a cold pack and I go lay down on a cot. All while Jerrick is sitting in the waiting room completely oblivious that any of this is going on. As soon as I lay down I am feeling much better. The nurse brings all of her equipment into the room where I am and takes the blood out of my HAND while I am laying down. I am feeling better but Jerrick and I decide that a trip to Panera will probably make both of us feel much better. We had a delicious lunch and I went home to rest. Needless to say that this was our most dramatic Dr.'s visit yet but the good news is that I do not have gestational diabetes! yay!

3RD TRIMESTER!!!

2009-09-12T09:17:00.000-07:00

We are in the home stretch!!! Today is the beginning of my third trimester and I am starting to completely freak out about how little I have done!! I don't think it will take me that long to get the nursery put together but as of right now it is still a empty room. I can't seem to decide on furniture! There are way to many options - different crib styles and finishes ugh...I have finally decided on crib bedding and it should be ready in a few weeks. My friend Taylor is going to let me borrow her bassinet so I have that covered. Now on to the "newborn essential checklist" that is only 3 pages long! Who would of thought that you needed so much stuff for a tiny little thing.

27 weeks (6 3/4 Months!)

Last Saturday was the first Razorback game of the season. I was really hesitant to go because it was so hot and humid and I knew that there would be a lot walking involved but I couldn't resist. The games are so much fun! I had to work until 4 but as soon as I got off I met Jerrick and my long lost BFF Steph at the game. We stayed until half time but that was about all I could handle. Hard metal bleacher seats with no back aren't a pregnant woman's friend! We had a great time and the HOGS won! ;)

Sunday was a extra special day for Miss. Allie. She had a bath and a haircut and as her reward for being such a good girl we took her to the dog park! We haven't ever taken her to a dog park before because she is sometimes not very nice to other dogs. She needs all attention on her at all times. Luckily for our first dog park outing we were the only people there so Allie had the entire fenced in area to herself. She isn't really much fun. She doesn't fetch or catch a a frisbee she just runs around "marking" everywhere! hahaha I think she had a good time and must of worn herself out because she slept for the rest of the afternoon.

blog face lift

2009-09-03T07:51:00.000-07:00

You all will have to excuse the boring blog for now. It's currently in the process of getting a face lift!

EAGLES-EAGLES-EAGLES!!!

2009-09-01T11:06:00.000-07:00

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN...NUMBER 14 IN YOUR PROGRAMS, NUMBER 1 IN YOUR HEART SCOTT WILLIS!!!!

www.gwenholt.com

Last Friday My brother Scott and the Valley View Eagles took on the Noconna Indians. Unfortunately it was not a win for the eagles but they put up a great fight. All in all Scott had a good game and hopefully this will be a good year! I can't believe my baby brother is a JUNIOR already!!! I still feel like I just graduated High School! hahaha ;)

Good Luck this year Scotty!!!

6 month BUMP!

2009-08-25T11:47:00.000-07:00

Our little tiny is defiantly growing. Here is the 6 month bump.

Enjoy!

(I will try and get a better pic this weekend)

TEXAS!!!!

2009-08-20T11:48:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we got to take a little trip down to Texas to visit our family and friends. We had a great time. It's always nice to go home and catch up with everyone. Friday evening we celebrated Ryan Schniederjan's 25th birthday! Saturday I was completely useless. I tried to venture out and about but it was sooo HOT I started puffing up immediately. I spent the afternoon de-puffing on the couch! Saturday night we went to an engagement party for (soon to be Mr & Mrs. Derek Haverkamp.) Sunday I spent with my Mom getting a pedicure and shopping for the baby. Needless to say it was a eventful weekend and we had a great time. There's is never enough time with our Texas trips. ;(

CHEF CLAXTON

2009-08-13T07:44:00.001-07:00

A few nights ago Jerrick made grilled pork chops for dinner. They were delicious but while I was sitting on the back porch keeping him company I noticed how pitiful his tiny little grill is. It does get the job done for the two of us but I think it might be time for a upgrade!!!

- Double cooking systems with 2 individual grill heads
- 3 stainless steel tube burners with independent temperature control for greater cooking flexibility.
- Push and turn electronic ignition for easy start

Most importantly it's on sale for $275!!!- 536" sq. cooking surface
- 223" sq. warming rack
- Three 12,000 BTU stainless steel tube burners
- One 10,000 BTU infrared sear burner
- One 12,000 BTU cast-brass flush side burner
- 10,000 BTU infrared back burner
- Two stainless steel tube handles on side shelves
- Integrated ignition

$250.00
I really don't have any idea what any of this means! I just know that these grills look a lot better than what we have. ;) I guess I will have to see if either of these options meet the chef's requirements!

After living in a tiny one bedroom historic house for the past few years there are so many things that we now need in our MUCH bigger 3 bedroom house. I don't know when I will be able to justify buying a $300 grill. Oh ya not to mention all of the baby stuff we will be needing to buy!

As always I have been obsessing about the interior design of our house. We need drapes in the living room and kitchen. We also need rugs in both rooms. We still have to paint the master bedroom. Somehow we have managed to get buy without a dining room table for the past three years. Although I have found a dining room set (table with 6 chairs) at my favorite flea market BUT it is $300 so I will have decide what is most important. Our vacuum cleaner recently bit the dust (no pun intended). Almost all of my dinner plates were broken during our last move. The list goes on.... What cant I live without any longer? A few friends have asked me to post pics of our house....When I get ALL of these things done. Hopefully sooner rather than later. I will post some pics of our house! ;)

What I'm loving right now!

2009-08-05T15:32:00.000-07:00

Foot Massage - OMG...Never has a foot massage felt so good as it does when you are pregnant! Lucky for me I have been able to get Jerrick to give me a foot massage every now and then before I go to bed. He's such a good hubby....I'm sure he really just wants me to quit whining and go to bed! So I get the foot massage to speed the process up! haha Now if I could only get a back rub too!

Starbucks - get ready for this one...Shaken, sweetened, black, iced tea. mmmmm.....its so tasty. Since I cant get my usual at Starbucks I have been loving this tea. Its sweet tea with a little kick!

Bella Band - I know this looks super sexy. This band goes over the top of your pants so that you can still wear your pre pregnancy pants just unbuttoned and a little bit unzipped if you need to. It will also help hold up maternity pants that might be a little big! In later pregnancy you can fold it down and it will also help support your belly.

Fabric!!!! ahhhhh!!!!!

2009-07-24T07:57:00.000-07:00

I have changed my mind about the fabric for the nursery. I went to Fabrics etc yesterday and a REALLY like these new fabrics! I am not going to order anything for a couple of weeks so I have some time to brainstorm but, I am really leaning towards these new fabrics!

Starting on the Nursery!!!

2009-07-21T12:21:00.000-07:00

Here is a BUMP pic for all of you that keep bugging me about it!!! I HATE taking these so I don't know when you will get another one! haha ;)

Fabric shopping...(Jerrick is sneaky!!!)

Ok, so it has been a week and a day since we found out that we are expecting our first son. Since last Monday we have been planning the nursery. I thought I knew EXACTLY what I wanted to do in the nursery IF we were having a boy. When I went to Cynthia East Fabrics in Little Rock on Saturday I was surprised when I fell in love with this funky navy and kelly green print. I had already planned a black & white, teal and lime green nursery so this new color scheme is completely different than what I had originally planned. Jerrick wanted to get stared ASAP on the paint job. He wanted to do a harlequin pattern. So after checking out several fabric stores on Saturday morning and settling on this "new" color scheme we were off to Lowes for paint! We decided on metallic silver and green! Jerrick put so much time into researching exactly how to lay out this pattern on the wall. It turned out really great! I love how funky the metallic is with the preppy-ness of the harlequin. That's kind of the same idea I went with when I was putting together all of the fabrics for the bedding. After I had the funky blue and green print I wanted something more traditional and preppy to put with it. I went with blue and white sear sucker and bright orange!!! I love it!!! I cant wait to get the bedding made and a crib to put it in! hahaha

Almost finished!

I took this with my phone so its not that great...the green matches the fabric below!

Here's the fabric for the bedding!!!

This is the fabric I thought I was going to use!

Saturday night we went to a Twisters game with Jerricks boss's and their wives and a few other co-workers. The Arkansas Twisters for those of you who don't know...is a arena football team. ( I had no idea!) It was very interesting. The field is only 50 yards! I liked being inside without the sun and heat but I think I like regular old football much better. We had a great time! Thank you for taking us Beau!!!

Our little man

2009-07-15T09:29:00.000-07:00

IT"S A BOY!!!!!

We had our BIG sonogram on Monday. It went really well. Our little guy is doing great. Every measurement they took was right on with how far along I am. As of Monday (18 wks and 2 days) We are defiantly having a little boy! There is no doubt about it! As soon as the sonogram began we could CLEARLY see that we were having a little boy. Having a little boy will be fun. As cheezy as it sounds we are super excited to teach him how to play baseball & football, Jerrick has already been giving him pep talks on no huddle offense and a bunch of other football things that I have no idea what they mean.

We have already done a little shopping. We have put quite a lot of time into researching places online that you can get little boy clothes that aren't the typical baby blue onezie. haha It has been fun. He should be very well dressed. ;) So far baby gap has some pretty cute stuff and we have a long list of online stores!

There are a few names that we are considering but we haven't decided yet if we are going to tell everyone the name or not. We may wait and it will be a SUPRISE!!!

BABY, BABY, BABY!!!!

2009-07-08T07:25:00.000-07:00

Wow it has been quite sometime since my last blog post. There has been a lot going on with the Claxton family. As most of you know by now we are EXPECTING!!! Yay! I am 17 weeks. My due date is 12/12. We are so excited! We felt the baby move for the first time last week. Our next appointment is Monday July 13th. At that appointment we will find out if we will be having a little prince or princess!

I did have some sickness and quite a bit of moodiness in the first trimester. Once the second trimester hit it has been smooth sailing. Jerrick has been fantastic. I don't think I could ask for a more supportive, patient & understanding husband.

We have been trying to do some planning so that when we do find out the sex we can start purchasing all of the big things our tiny will need. Nursery furniture & decor, stroller, car seat... As of now we cant even decide which side of the hall to put the nursery on! haha We originally liked the room on the left side of the hall but the neighbor has a really loud car that he starts every morning at 6:30. Then again I don't guess it really matters because the baby will be awake by then anyway.

We are so excited and cant wait for our little one to get here! Only 5 more months!
I will post sonogram pictures next Monday!

BUMP pic coming soon!!!

The case of the missing TOOTHBRUSH!!!

2009-05-03T20:20:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately my toothbrush has been missing. Don't worry I had a backup. We couldn't figure out what could have possibly happened to my toothbrush! That's not really something that you typically lose or misplace. A few nights ago we came home from dinner to find this 'nub' laying in the floor.

Allie apparently stole my toothbrush and ATE it!!! Yes, that's right. Ate it. She likes chewing on plastic. She likes it so much that she will chew on something (previously: hangers and a hairbrush) until it is down to a tiny little piece of plastic. When my toothbrush came up missing that last thing that I thought happened was that Allie stole it!!!

THE damask TREND!!!!

2009-04-17T00:41:00.000-07:00

Just wondering if anyone else has noticed the "damask" trend that is seeming to NEVER end? It caught on a few years ago and I loved it on throw pillows maybe bedding or drapes BUT.....could someone please let me know why you would ever need a damask tool kit? How about damask trash bags or even freezer bags? Are there really people out there who aren't satisfied with Hefty or Ziploc? Damask duct tape???? Come on! I guess I just don't get it. If I came home with damask duct tape Jerrick would make fun of me for life!!! (rightly so) ;)

Coca-Cola & Starbucks

2009-04-16T23:37:00.000-07:00

I have recently decided to try and lead a "healthier lifestyle" unfortunately with that came giving up cokes and Starbucks. Two things that I feel like I MUST have everyday. It has been 2 weeks since I have had either and I am feeling a cheat day coming on. I ALMOST had a diet coke today but it wouldn't of been the same so I just stuck with good ole' H20.

- Now if I can only figure out what to due about my addiction to SWEETS!!!

just some tutus....

2009-04-13T19:48:00.000-07:00

I sold some of my tutus to a store in Hot Springs YAY!!! I didn't really have intentions of selling them for a profit. When I originally started making them it was always for gifts for friends. I recently started making the shirts to go with them for a complete outfit!

Allies day out!!!

2009-03-31T19:54:00.000-07:00

Allie is typically on lock down. We hardly ever take her anywhere because she gets sooo excited and needs EVERYONES attention. Sunday was a exception. We were heading over to the McCulleys and we knew that we were going to be hanging out outside for the afternoon with Kyler and Joseph so we thought why not take her! We took the boys bubble swords and pop-sicles and we all had a great time...including Allie. Kyler shared his pop-sicle with her and he thought that was the funniest thing! I wasn't sure how she was going to do with kids but she was great. She was constantly running from them because she was terrified but the kids thought she was playing with them so it all worked out! ;)

White Done Right!

2009-03-25T20:49:00.001-07:00

So I obviously don't have anything family related to blog about so I will go with my second LOVE...design. Recently I have had a few friends ask for my help mastering the art of pulling off a all white or very neutral room. It is challenging but it can certainly be done! haha... Actually I think that a all white decor is a really easy way to have a very chic room if you are design challenged! ;)

Play with different neutral shades. Creamy antique white is good with antiques (old wood and a traditional or country setting) A few drops of your favorite color — primrose yellow, cornflower blue, apple green — added to a gallon of paint will produce a tinted white fresh and gentle on a wall. White with a little gray added is a contemporary shade perfect for modern living. Most of the pics that I have posted are sporting creamy white walls or a very subtle tan but staying away builders basic beige.

Veranda

To avoid an all-white scheme appearing clinical, add different textures and layers in white or tan. For example, layer bed linens using waffle blankets, pretty cotton throws and quilted cushions or add patterned drapes, embossed wallpaper or a great textured rug for a truly fabulous room.

Remember this if you want to add some accents of color. Warm whites work best with blues and neutral tones whilst cool whites work best with bright colors, such as pure primaries and vivid colors.

Shabby Slips

JUST DO IT!!! Don’t believe the myth that children and white interiors don’t mix. Use a washable paint with a low-sheen finish in high traffic areas and removable washable covers on sofas. I guess its easy for me to say that since I do not have kids. I just think that being afraid of things being broken or reuined is a sad excuse to not make your home everything it should be!

Fishin' in the dark

2009-03-20T14:37:00.000-07:00

After 6 years I still haven't figured out why for some reason I always imagine myself laying on a beach somewhere exotic for spring break and EVERY year... we go camping. UGH. Its usually a week filled with freezing nights & rainy days. Everyone goes fishing all day and I am usually bored out of my mind. Luckily this year Jerrick and I had to work so I managed to get out of it. Jerrick went camping Saturday night and did some fly fishing on Sunday. I had a girls night out and Sunday I made a brief appearance at the campsite just long enough to watch Jerrick fish for a little while and play dress up in his gear! Maybe next year I'll be at the beach.....

WOW look at athe size of that catch!

Next year I would LOVE to go stay in a bungalow in Bora Bora, Tahiti or Fiji any of the three would be ok with me! Jerrick can still fish...Sounds perfect!

My blog has blog has been deprived ;(

2009-03-11T14:49:00.000-07:00

Sweet Stella turned 2 on March 6th! Jerrick and I had to miss the party we were really upset. We have missed so much of her since moving from Fayetteville. Her party theme this year was Peace Love & Candy! I was probably more obsessed with the planning process than I should've been. Taylor and I were constantly emailing and texting ideas. If you want to have an amazing party you have to start planning at least 3 months in advance. haha. It was Fabulous of coarse complete with a full candy bar & moon bounce! She wore a tie dyed tank with little ruffles, a raspberry pettiskirt and yellow Converse (Chuck Taylors). Of coarse she had to have a wardrobe change into a teal tutu. LOVE IT She is so precious and becoming such a big girl. I will post the "official" pics from Chris Stinson just as soon as they are available!

Another little one in our life had a big birthday. Joseph had his 1st Birthday!!! The whole family got together for cake and ice cream and the kids played outside all afternoon. Just to clarify by "kids" I mean Dylan, Jerrick, Joseph and Kyler. ;) Joseph is obsessed with the broom and feather duster. He is always stumbling through the living room waving a 4 foot long broom about to take someone out at any moment. For his birthday Jerrick and I got him his very own tiny broom. It was so funny he got so many gifts that were cute, fun and educational...what did he want to play with...the broom that I rigged up from a wooden plunger stick and broom base from the dollar store!

Laziness has lead me to my new favorite makeup. After YEARS of hearing about Bare Essentials I finally jumped on board. I was running around Hot Springs frantically because after going into Dillards I found out that I was going to have to go all the way to Little Rock to get my make up which was really going to put a damper on my Friday evening plans. So I broke down and went with Bare Essentials and I LOVE it. Its powder but it looks like foundation on my skin and much lighter even than my pressed powder that I was wearing from MAC. The powder (foundation) is buildable which means that with each new layer of powder you can create a more full coverage look with out looking cakey. Perfect for summer. I told myself that the brushes alone were worth the price so if I didn't like it then oh well at least I got a few new brushes out of the deal! Try it out! They will give you a sample at Sephora!

I have been being somewhat crafty here lately. I have made a few tutus and this Razorback painting nothing too exciting...I scored a FREE "vintage" patio set! Terry is redoing it and I will post the before and after pics just as soon as she is finished.

Another tutu and MORE!

2009-02-20T08:08:00.000-08:00

So I made this tutu last week and I love all the bright colors. I used hot pink, lime green, bright orange and fuchsia! It also has orange polka dot, pink leopard print and lime green ribbon. I just wish I had a little tiny to put it on ;( Apparently Allie felt like I needed her assistance. I leave the room for a minute and come back to find her nestled comfortably in all of my tulle.

Jerrick brought me home this flower from his clients garden. She insisted that he bring me the prettiest flower on the bush! so sweet...

I was flipping through the new Vogue and noticed that "Romantic" hair accessories are sooo IN

right now. So I made this clip from a cameo pin, gold rhine stones, some turkey feathers Curtis

gave me and I picked up the red feathers at my favorite store Hobby Lobby! I haven't worn this yet but if I can't pull it off in my hair it will clip on to a sweater or a scarf!

you might be a red neck...

2009-02-18T16:39:00.000-08:00

Just some funny pics that I have taken. Recently I have seen several really "RED NECK" things going on. So I decided to start documenting them just for my entertainment. haha I guess someone decided to take their tractor to Sonic (which is something that I am sure I have seen in Gainesville before. Jerrick and I were driving down the road and saw this HOG strapped to a 4-wheeler! Last but not least when we were out the weekend before last someone decided that shoes were optional on the dance floor!...If you have ever done any of these things...you might be a red neck!

Aunt T's pic's

2009-02-18T14:11:00.000-08:00

The latest project

Aunt T's

re-vamped vanity

(I didn't get before pics of vanity or hot pink zebra chair but they were rough.)

The vanity was all matte cream and the chair was straight from the 70's. Dark brown with a orange and yellow cushion. Eeew.

the CUTEST booth! Maybe I'm Partial ;)

TRASH TO TREASURE!!!

tutu cute!

busy - busy - busy

2009-02-15T19:52:00.000-08:00

I have really been slacking on my post. We have been very busy! Jerrick is working super hard probably at least 60 hrs a week! Gotta make those dolla dolla bills! haha and... Aunt T's front porch is offically back in business. Since my discovery of Central Station (I'm obsessed I know) I convinced Terry to get a booth and give Aunt T's another try but this time a little differently since she doesn't have time to run a store...getting a booth a Central Station was perfect! All of mine and Terry's free time has been devoted to getting everything up and runnig and I must say I am pretty proud of our little booth! =) We managed to squeeze in a little family fun. Last weekend we all went to sing karaoke. Jerricks whole family is so talented. Friday night the bar actually called his Mema at home begging everyone to come in and sing again! Apparently there were a lot of people requesting the whole crew. ha ha This weekend hasn't been quite as exciting. Jerrick's Aunt and Uncle AND his Grandparents were moving so we have been helping move all weekend. Jerrick more so than me. I hope everyone had a great weekend and Happy Valentines Day! XO

- PS I will post some pics of Aunt T's front porch SOON!!!

Birthdays

2009-02-08T18:33:00.000-08:00

We have been very busy here lately. I'm feeling very artsy and keeping busy and Jerrick has been working so hard. I am so proud of him! Last weekend was Peepaw's birthday he got a fantastic present! He was recently contacted by his long lost brothers children. He went to Dallas last week to see his brother for the first time in 15 to 20 years and they have been talking everyday since. (tear) A McCulley renunion is being planned for this summer so that should be exciting!

I have been obsessing over sweet Stella's 2nd birthday which is coming up in March. I have been brain storming for her Candy party for weeks. I am making topiarys covered in gumballs and hopefully a few other things depending on how much help Taylor needs. I'm excited! I will keep you all posted.

Taylor told me about this website http://www.hostesswiththemostess.com/ check it out!

She has some great ideas for party's and tips for entertaining!

Mosaic Windows

2009-01-30T20:19:00.000-08:00

I made this one! ( above)

I thought I would post some pics of Jerrick's Mom's mosaic windows! They are so unique, she's really talented. I have been bugging her for 5 years to teach me how to make them. Finally...in December she was working on a tight deadline and had to have 4 windows ready ASAP so she put me to work! It was fun laying it all out and choosing the color scheme but, after I had to pick up each tiny piece and glue it down I lost interest. haha

Maicee's 1st Birthday

2009-01-30T19:29:00.000-08:00

Ok - so granted this work week wasn't all that productive but I did manage to whip up this little number for Maicee's 1st birthday!!! Hopefully her mom will send me some pics of her wearing it...

I"M BACK!!!

2009-01-24T23:26:00.000-08:00

Ok so I have to admit that my blog has been a little less than exciting here lately. Sorry about that. We have been busy and my camera has been out of commission so I never had much to work with as far as new posts go. A few weeks ago I was driving Jerricks truck and I had a pretty bad blowout. I am so lucky that I didn't wreck. I was talking on the phone and hardly focusing on driving (oops), anyway Jerrick was driving his grandparents car in front of me so I just pulled over and He changed the tire for me!

I randomly decided that I was in the mood to make tutu's, flower clips and headbands...not real sure what I'm going to do with this....anyway I enjoy making them. I'm sure that when I actually do have a little girlie girl of my own I wont have time to make these things anymore.

Girls night pic

2009-01-22T17:57:00.000-08:00

I know it's a little late but here is a picture from the fabolus girlsnight that Kaycee, Karly and I had!

oops!

2009-01-19T00:27:00.000-08:00

Saturday Morning Jerrick and I covered a

cheer event for the magazine I work for. I did the interviews and Jerrick was the "photographer" Jerrick did a really good job. We had fun. I was a little sad. I miss coaching cheer but I have so many other things I want to pursue. Maybe I can do it all? Later on I went with Jerricks mom to my new favorite store (Central Station) and then I had a girls night out with Kaycee and Karly. Sunday evening I had a serious blonde moment. OOPS! I accidentally deleted my blog!!! I'm addicted to blogging so I was freaking out! I managed to re post some of my previous post but I was definitely on the verge of a hissy fit! It was actually a pretty eventful weekend. This week work is going to be crazy. The magazine goes to print this week so I will be super busy. YAY!!!

2009

2009-01-18T23:40:00.000-08:00

I know that it is a little late to be posting about the New Year but I can't help but think about what 2009 might hold for Jerrick and I. Everyone always has so many things that they want to change for the New Year. Usually things that they were displeased with from the previous year. I see some big changes for the Claxton's in 2009 ha ha. I'm really excited for 2009! I made a list of a few goals for the New Year...to be a better wife, daughter, sister & friend, get a new car, re-vamp my wardrobe, focus on my career, learn to knit & sew, dabble in some gardening, take a photography class and the list goes on....In all actuality nobody knows what the future holds. The most important thing is that Jerrick and I as well as our family & friends remain happy & healthy. There hasn't been a lot going on around here. We got Allie a new bed the other day it's faux mink ha ha. Yes, it really said faux mink dog bed on my receipt. She loves it.

Fayetteville Trip

2009-01-18T23:13:00.000-08:00

We took a little trip up to Fayetteville to visit all of our friends that we are missing so bad!!! Our friends Taylor & Taylor were nice enough to let us stay with them. Taylor and I did some much needed shopping. Jerrick and Taylor hit up the gun show. Chris, Lynne & Marci came over everyone minus me cooked a reunion dinner complete with pork tenderloin, green bean bundles and cornflake mashed potatoes (the usual) I took care of Stella while everyone else cooked! She is so precious! She has had Jerrick and I wrapped around her finger since the day she was born. I can't believe how much she has changed since we left Fayetteville. I miss her already! We met up with Steph just before she was leaving town to go to a wedding in Oklahoma. We had a great time and it was the perfect was to start off the New Year!

Best Kept Secret

2009-01-18T22:53:00.000-08:00

I have officially discovered Hot Springs best kept secret. Central Station Flea Market!!!! They have everything you could possibly imagine... jewelry, dishware, vintage clothing, furniture and so much more! my most recent purchases were a mirrored tray for all of my girly things, a vintage pearl covered bottle and a pocket watch! I got Jerrick a 1940's bar set! I'm addicted I can't go to this pace enough!

CHRISTMAS!!!

2009-01-18T21:55:00.000-08:00

Christmas was crazy as usual. There are so many people that we need to visit and everyone is so spread out it's HARD!!! I don't know how we are going to do it when we have kids! We spent Christmas in Hot Springs. We had the 1st annual McCulley tacky Christmas sweater dinner..(yes, we went in public) it was fun and a little embarrassing and we also had a 12 hour long wii tournament! On the 26th we headed to Texas. I was really sick so I didn't even get to go to my family's Christmas this year ;( We hung out with my little brother Riley, and managed to make time for quite a few Rock Band sessions. All in all it was a great Christmas and were on the road again..back to Arkansas!