Jeremy, Elizabeth, Libby & John Henry

Life

2011-11-06T19:22:00.000-08:00

Life is busy these days, but whose isn't?

Here are a few pictures to enjoy.

This is what cooking supper/the witching hour looks like around here...

John Henry "helping"

My favorite thing in the entire world is bath time.

our little puppy dogs.

Libby enjoying the best part of a wedding (cake) - Jeremy's cousin recently tied the knot.

She danced every single song at the reception until we left.

John Henry being put through an impromptu photo shoot...

All ready for cowboy day at school.

Libby is holding Annie Apple - Keith has been replaced (see previous post)

me too.

First time to experience roasting marshmallows and s'mores...I think momma had the most fun.

In the background is Oreo or O-dog (Mimi and Pop's favorite child)

Our pumpkins this year, actually our first pumpkins ever. Jeremy and I always said we were going to carve a pumpkin, but since we have met this is the first time it has actually happened.

Fun at Mimi and Pop's house...

The other day Jeremy went to starbucks because we were out of coffee (not good)

He took Libby with him and got her a hot chocolate.

Picture her with a starbucks cup in hand, wearing this sweater jacket and her imposter uggs with a crazy pony tail.

It felt like we had a really short college student walking around.

Wild to think about starting kindergarten in just a few short years...

cuddling with Daddy

puppy dog on a sugar high or coming off the high about to crash...

A few pictures-

2011-10-08T08:24:00.000-07:00

This little guy melts my heart.

He is a barrel of monkeys...

Libby and Keith

just some background info for you....

-Keith is not a lion, he is a big boy.

-He goes with us to church and goes to the nursery with John Henry.

You must refer to Libby as "Keith's momma" not Libby.

It's a pleasant surprise when you re-enter a room and see your children playing nicely.

It is not so pleasant when you see your 9 month old scaling the Little Tikes play kitchen like its Mount Everest...

Can someone tell me where a year went?

2011-08-25T09:17:00.000-07:00

First day of school 2010

First day of school 2011

Allow me to introduce myself...

2011-08-21T19:14:00.000-07:00

My name is John Henry...mom says I am the cutest thing ever...I have to say that she is right.

I love to watch my daddy mow the grass...

I also love to swing.

I think solid food is the real deal.

This is my dog, Hagan.

Since this whole solid food thing started he has come to realize the importance of my existence.

We are working on his boundaries...

I am all about the full eating experience..touching it with my hands...

then I do this weird stretching routine so my hair can have a taste too...

and I walk away fully satisfied, covered from head to toe & looking good.

These are my hunting buddies, Brooks and Riley...we are already discussing duck season 2017...

be afraid, be very afraid...

New Adventures

2011-08-10T12:01:00.000-07:00

This summer has flown by, I can't believe that school is starting again. We have had such a great time with lots of fun things going on. Seeing Nathan and Jonathan and Maggie and Julia was a big highlight of the summer and in between visits we have had lots of new adventures.
We went down to Mr. Keith's house last weekend and Libby got to feed, pet and ride a horse. John Henry even got a chance to sit on him (Manni the horse) and loved it!

Our little cowboy

Mr. Keith was so patient and loved teaching Libby how to lead Manni.

She was so funny...treating the horse like any old dog....

and then brave enough to saddle up

Libby and Riley taking a ride

John Henry and Brooks in the Radio Flyer

A visit to Julian in the hospital turned into a play date, there were so many people there to see him.

John Henry, Bel, Ella & Mary Eliza

While Jane and the girls were here, John Henry got baptized, we celebrated Libby's birthday, went swimming, Libby went to her first movie and just enjoyed our time together.

Janie holding John Henry before his baptism

Eating ice cream at Mimi & Pop's house

Janie & the girls

Playing babies with Maggie Moo Moo

Watching home videos from last summer

(they loved this and wanted to watch them over and over again)

Maggie and Mimi at the playground

Juju and Libby on the slide

Decor from Libby's garden party

Planting pumpkin seeds...

Birthday girl

Mimi, Jane & me

Ashley and Lindy made it to the party...all the way from Hernando and Nashville!

John Henry was so excited to see Aidan and meet Banks.

more decorations

butterfly cupcakes

Birthday girl on her new set of wheels

Libby just being fabulous

Pop reading the pout pout fish...a really cute book that the girls love.

Summer Traditions

2011-07-09T07:17:00.000-07:00

I am writing this post early this morning. Libby, Jeremy & John Henry all asleep. (JH just went down for a nap....that is what happens when you wake up at 5 a.m.). Robert a.k.a. Buzz, Zoey, Nate & Jonathan left for the airport this morning. The house is quiet, and I am certain of one thing...Libby will be one sad little girl when she wakes up and realizes they have gone home. Having them here was great...Libby followed them everywhere, tried her best to keep up, and did a pretty good job. Libby and Nate have a special bond...he is like a protective older brother. She dotes on Jonathan, but he is not too keen on that. They butt heads a little bit, but I think the closeness in age has alot to do with it. Libby insisted on riding in "Zoey's white car" (their rental car) with them everywhere we went, so we moved her car seat over and she did. Last weekend we ventured to Heber Springs and stayed in a cabin there (we did this last year and it seems to becoming the 4th of July tradition). Zoey's parents retired there, so they were just a few houses down, a short walk or golf cart ride away.

The guys got to golf and even took the kids to play a few holes. We went out on the boat one day and to a pottery studio to let the kids paint pottery...back in Memphis we went to the playground, went swimming, and even had an early birthday celebration for Jonathan & Libby.
It was a great visit. I miss them and can't wait to have them here with us again.

Libby & Momma riding on the boat.

Showing off my chopstick skills.

J.P. - so handsome

Discussing important birthday matters

Watching cartoons

Daddy & Libby riding the tube. No worries, this was slow and short-lived.

NaNa and John Henry cruising

Looking for frogs at YaYa and Pop Pop's house (Zoey's parents)

Buzz, Zoey Nate & J.P.

Modeling the first bubble Momma made

Modeling a knot-top and shorts - this is my best yet...

There was a lot

of this

going on...

Libby and her real life baby doll...

Mexico

2011-06-25T12:16:00.000-07:00

Over the week of Memorial Day, the whole Booth clan ventured to Playa Del Carmen. It was so nice to spend a week together and have Julia, Maggie, Libby & John Henry together to see them all interact. Mimi & Pop were a great help and had the girls sleep in their villa every night, apart from a few bed-time melt-downs and other various events it seemed to work out great. That left Jane & Wyatt, Callie & Russell & Jeremy, myself and John Henry to a villa of our own.

I will be honest and say that packing all of the necessities in a suitcase for a 5 month old for an international flight was a bit stressful. It took lots of thought, planning, and a bit of re-arranging of stuff once we weighed our suitcases at the airport.
And once we got there, Jeremy and I realized that our "vacation" would not be a typical vacation. With kids at the ages of John Henry and Libby, it was a full time job of tag-team parenting...sun-screen, nap times, sun-screen, strolling, feedings, sun-screen, potty breaks & more sun-screen.

The up-side was that there was lots of help from everyone and we were in the midst of paradise doing all of these things...I wish it didn't come and go so soon.

Now we are spending the summer going to story time, the farmer's market, the town square, making puppets, painting, cooking, swimming, playing and trying to stay cool.

The big topic of the season is Libby's Birthday. She will tell complete strangers at the store, "my birthday's coming up...you can come to my party" She talks herself to sleep during nap time discussing her birthday, who is going to be there and singing happy birthday to herself as loud as she can. Listening to her on the monitor is entertainment in itself...There is never a dull moment around here. Here are a few pictures from our trip.

The whole group - this was the last full day of the trip, we had a photographer for about an hour and he got some great pictures of the kids and some of each family - This was the highlight of the trip for Wyatt.

John Henry & Pop - poolside

Libby is a fearless little fish...she is fearless, but I am fearful for her...she could have a future on the swim team.

Libby kissing the monkey

Lunch - everyday Jane and I shared an order of fried shrimp tacos and guacamole...oh.so.good.

and even photographs well.

Pop getting the tangles out of Libby's hair, the story is that every night the tangle fairy comes and does a dance in Libby's hair and that is why we have to brush our hair every day. Dang that tangle fairy...

This was on the airplane on the way home...Libby's new thing is that "somebody is bothering me" and believe me, she is easily bothered...Libby announces that some body's foot is bothering her. The lady behind her was asleep and had her foot propped into Libby's personal space...in this picture she was telling us that she was going to touch it...we were cracking up.

Mimi & Pop

Janie & Wy-o

The little mermaid, Maggie moo moo

sweet sisters

waiting for that happy hour bell to ring...

Mimi, the girls & the pout pout fish

This is where John Henry napped, in the stroller, by the pool, in the shade of the umbrella, enjoying an ocean breeze....he has it tough

Jeremy throwing Julia

Russell & Callie, such a great aunt and uncle with lots of patience with the kids

Aunt Callie with John Henry & his shades

Libby wants to be just like Ju Ju, so naturally she wanted to "go up in the sky" too.

The whole fam, and although you can't tell in the picture, we are probably wearing 2 lbs. of sun-screen

Summer time!

2011-06-11T09:48:00.000-07:00

Libby and Pop exploring in the backyard.

Watering plants

Playing in the water results in a small flood.

Posing in front of the wheat fields at Jana and Julian's house

Swinging!

Libby's version of a cartwheel

Early riser in his jumper (pre-haircut)

John Henry and his unfortunate hairdo

2011-06-11T08:10:00.000-07:00

I know now that I see these pictures, what a mess his hair was, However, I think we should consider the facts. He is 5 months old....I mean, what mother is really ready to have the first haircut at 5 months??

Libby was almost one year when she had hers. It was easier to just put a bow in her hair and let it be a little crazy because she was a girl. But after a few months of hearing, "Elizabeth, it's time." From a few people, I gave in and I am so glad I did...

It's kind of weird when you are putting tangle spray in the hair of your 4 month old...and he is a boy. So here are the pics.

yeah, it was time alright...

not to sure about this situation.

I call this one "bad Elvis chops"

still a bit of a mullet...

Look at the handsome devil...much better!

Lately...

2011-05-16T06:26:00.000-07:00

We have had a lot to celebrate lately, Easter, Jeremy's birthday, Mother's day, John Henry turned 4 months, Libby tells us everyday that her birthday is coming up and we are looking forward to a vacation right around the corner.
John Henry has moved to his room and started rice cereal and after two weeks of hating it, he is starting to come around and realize that solid food could be okay after all. He is weighing in at 18 lbs. When we are out and people ask how old he is I say, " He is 4 months old, but he is a big for 4 months..." because I know they are thinking it and want to comment on his size but not be rude, so I just say it for them.
Libby is a very "hands on" big sister. She loves to help bathe, change diapers, and she is practicing her discipline on John Henry. Just the other day she told John Henry to "get back in mama's belly!"
Here are a few pics of the latest...

Me and my little shark

All dressed up for Easter

Daddy is 32 years young!

Happy Mother's day!

Spending some quality time with Uncle Buzz

Not too sure about this

Nate and Johnny Cash came for a visit.

Sadly it was for a funeral, but we loved spending time with them.

Libby and John Henry visiting Jana - for a post Mother's day visit

Nate and John Henry...Nate could give us some hair tips.

Julian and John Henry.

Julian is glad that we had a boy...too much estrogen among the great grandchildren...9 girls and soon to be 5 boys

Happy Easter

2011-04-22T07:32:00.000-07:00

We are looking forward to this weekend with family and friends. I wanted to get a post in to show what we have been up to lately. Enjoy!

This was John Henry's first play date with Brody -

Lindy and I prepared for Ashley's baby shower and they kept each other company.

We can't wait to meet Banks and add him to our clan!

This is the look of contentment - I believe Libby was napping so, John Henry had some peace.

Look at those dimples in his hand...so sweet.

This was the day we bought sandals for our Easter dress - natrually we had to wear them all day.

Then we got home and I needed LIbby to try on a bathing suit to make sure it would get her through the summer...so we had to kep that on too and accessorize with the garden gloves!

Playing with Ford could also be called "bossing Ford around"

He loves Libby and is great at sharing...Libby told us the other day she was going to put Ford in time out.

Being maternal...

Before the Easter egg hunt at school.

Dying Easter eggs during the witching hour.

This event about shot my nerves, Libby loved it and is now fascinated with hard-boiled eggs and the "yellow ball" in the middle.

It's been too long...

2011-04-13T20:14:00.000-07:00

Life is moving right along these days. John Henry and Libby are both growing up so fast it is scary.
Libby is growing right into her big sister role and learning to boss everyone around. John Henry LOVES her and lights up whenever she is in the room. Libby is very attached to him and doesn't like to go many places without him.
Jeremy and I are adapting to parenting two little ones. The night time routine has become a fine art and from the moment Jeremy walks in the door it feels like a 3 hour sprint with supper time, bath time and bed time.
We love our life and are so blessed.....So, while we don't want to wish these days away...we do wish we could nap more often.
Here are a few pics from the past few months.

Here is the little man, or should I say BIG man...size 3 diapers already!

I could just eat him up!

Libby & Momma playing outside in this great weather.

Feel asleep playing....oh the life...

Love this face.

We took Libby to a Grizzlies game and had 4th row seats.

If a basketball game brings her this much joy and excitement - then we may need medication the day we take her Disney World. It was so fun to watch her light up.

Picnic with Juju and Maggie Moo Moo in Columbus

Holding Elvira (her baby doll) in the Baby Bjorn

Welcome to the World John Henry Given!

2011-01-04T10:30:00.000-08:00

Well, we waited and waited and waited. December 22nd came and went and there we sat still waiting...and as much as I did not want to be to induced, on December 26th we woke up bright and early to head to Methodist Germantown for our 8:00 appointment.

After checking in and meeting my awesome nurse, Whitney...the action started. I was trying to go natural with no epidural...Many people thought I was crazy, but something in me wanted to try.

So, I did. I tried and by the time I was at 6 cm, I was done trying and asked for the epidural. It was too much for me to bear, for those ladies that have done it...wow.

So, I got the epidural around 1:00 and by 3:46 p.m. we had a baby boy.

He weighed 8 lbs. 13oz. and was 20 inches long - with a head full of dark hair.

Not quite as much as Libby had (she could wear a bow the day she was born) but still a head full of hair.

We were all very surprised by his size...the doctor thought he would be about the same size as

Libby (7lbs. 12oz.) - good thing we got induced when we did!

We are home now and adjusting to life with two little ones. Jeremy was off of work the whole week last week which was great and yesterday was back to the grindstone.

Libby is a great big sister...very sensitive to the needs of John Henry...when he cries, she almost cries too.

She loves to hold him and does not like for visitors to hold him and she is an expert at "helping" momma change diapers. Here are a few pics of the big event.

Prego and ready to go the hospital!

A white birthday for John Henry!

so excited to finally meet him...

Libby LOVED sitting in my bed and holding "baby brudder"

Lots of friends and family there to welcome the little guy.

I don't think it has hit her yet that he is here to stay.

Cousins, Nate & JP were very good with John Henry and Libby...

Headed home from the hospital

awww...

Before the baby craze hits...

2010-12-25T14:19:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas! We have just celebrated Libby's 3rd Christmas and it was so much fun!
Santa came and Libby was very good this year...but a little confused because for the past 9 months we have been telling her that baby brother would be here when Santa Claus comes...and we thought he would.

My due date was Wednesday the 22nd and he has yet to make his debut...unless something happens tonight we are going in tomorrow morning to be induced. I have mixed emotions about being induced, however I am confident in the decision we made in waiting until after the due date and letting God be in charge of the event...Libby was born a week early so I guess I assumed with this being a second baby he would come early too...shows how much I know.

We have been busy with Christmas and preparing for baby brother there has been very little down time.
Robert, Zoey, NaNa and the boys are all in town so, they will get to meet the baby right away and Jane will arrive on my birthday to spend a long weekend and help out. Mimi says this is the longest pregnancy ever (I think it is because we lived with them all summer and you know the saying about a "watched pot")

It has gotten to the point that I have to send a text saying I am not in labor, but I am about to call...because whenever they see our name on caller id they expect big news and when I call just to chit chat, it is very anti-climatic.

I just wanted to post a few more pics of the house and Christmas because soon it will be baby mania and who will have time to care about the house?!?

This is the view from our breakfast table - it is like watching the discovery channel...

squirrels, geese, ducks, a blue heron, people running on the golf trail with their dogs and those die hard golfers that are golfing rain or shine...I must say I am thankful I married a duck hunter and not a golfer...

Duck hunting has a short season but golf goes on year round.

Libby's "playground"

Where we spend the most time and one of the most "finished" rooms in the house, the den.

Libby's big girl room, the nursery, and the office are next on the list...

Libby - so grown up - look how long and skinny her legs are - no baby fat in sight!

So sad!

NaNa, Nathan and Libby - waiting to open presents

Jeremy, Uncle Buzz, and Pop - solving the world's problems.

Libby playing with Nate and JP's paper jamz...this present was the hit this year.

True, I have been a terrible blogger....but I have an explanation...

2010-11-27T19:13:00.000-08:00

Okay, I have heard it from friends and family...everyone is tired of the Christmas in July post that has been up way too long with out any updates and I feel bad. I really do, but I feel like I have some great excuses.

- we moved (while I was 7 months pregnant)
- our computer is somewhat on the fritz - we got a quote from Dell for it to be fixed, however a call to India is not on the top of our priority list...
- Libby is officially potty trained! (that took some time but I am so glad we are there)
- I am very pregnant - baby boy is extremely strong - this pregnancy has been tougher on me, having a toddler is not the most leisurely life (as most of you know)
But I feel pretty overwhelmed with trying to get things done for Libby's big girl room, the baby's nursery, making the new house more of a home, nesting, and Christmas - whew...just typing that sentence made me tired...

We spent the summer with Mimi and Pop (four months to be exact)...It was great; and after we moved out in September, it was nice at our new house with plenty of room - but it was quiet and we definitely missed them. We are 5 minutes away, but I got used to the adult company during the day and all the help with Libby. We moved out in late September and have been loving our new house.
I will post pictures soon...

Libby is very excited about welcoming her baby brother into the world...she knows that he will be here about the time Santa comes (or at least we are hoping he stays put that long).
She is extremely maternal and is obsessed with babies (not sure if that will be good or bad)...

Libby also started mothers day out this fall and LOVES it, I also enjoy the free time although I rarely take the time to relax...I have been blessed to be busy with clients and the house, so the days she is in school I am usually pretty busy myself...

Duck season is officially under way and Jeremy has been hunting twice - they had a great time and killed lots of birds - we are not sure what the next few weeks will bring...so I am I glad they have had a few good days of male bonding and shooting things.

I am planning to blog again soon with pictures of the house...until then enjoy the random pictures in this post!

Libby on her first day of school

Feeding the goats at the Church fall festival

(we now expect to see goats every Sunday)

Kitty cat for Halloween - her favorite part was the tail.

Planting pansies with Mimi at the new house.

Coloring with Callie & Mary Eliza on Thanksgiving

reading lots of books with Uncle Russell

Christmas in July

2010-07-30T12:37:00.000-07:00

Since we are going to have a new addition to the family around Christmas and we were able to do a little celebrating last week when we found out that we are going to have a baby boy.

After finding out the big news we went to buy the baby a few things to "celebrate"

We couldn't believe how much we had to look before we found something we really liked.
I never realized how convienent it was to shop for Libby...let the search begin!

This is Libby the day of her birthday party - we are hoping there is this much excitement when her baby brother arrives!

A visit with my yankee cousins*

2010-07-29T20:33:00.000-07:00

Jane (Janie), Julia (Ju Ju) and Maggie (Maggie Moo Moo) left Memphis today. This trip was unlike any other in that we were living with mom and dad during their almost 2 week visit.
It was great to wake up, go downstairs, have coffee with my mom and sister on the patio and watch the girls ~~whine, fuss and be dramatic~~ play together.
All kidding aside, it was great. They had their moments but the true test was today when we woke up and the house was quiet and frankly we were bored and missed them already.
Libby asked about them first thing this morning...and Jeremy missed not being greeted at the door by 3 squealing little girls after work.

They made it back to Ohio safely after a 9 hour drive, Jane is brave, I will give her that. Here are a few pics Jane took while they were here.

JJ and Maggie Moo Moo

A stare down with Aunt Janie

Swinging on the back patio

A day trip to Dundee at Jana's house

Sharing Mimi

This is what our mornings looked like.

Mimi brought out the perfect surprise for the girls...slippers that made the noise of the animal
LtoR - sheep, pig & chicken

This is story time with Pop

Serious concentration from all - Please note the title of the book: I was so mad
I don't think it is just by coincidence that Julia picked that book to read - Libby likes to invade your personal space, and Julia did not cope well.

* This post title reminds me of all of my cousins who would refer to us as their "yankee cousins" while we lived in upstate New York. We did acquire an accent, but not for long.

Motherhood has it's moments...

2010-07-19T12:57:00.000-07:00

July Fun

2010-07-15T11:46:00.000-07:00

We had a fun-filled 4th with Nathan, Jonathan, Robert, Zoey, NaNa and Papaw.

We rented a cabin in Heber Springs and celebrated the 4th together. We ate lots of food, went swimming & found lots of bugs (this was THE highlight for the boys and Libby).

It was great spending time together and seeing the kids interact.

Nathan and Jonathan are so sweet to Libby loved being around them. Here are some pics from the 4th and a few extra I included:

swinging by myself on Mimi and Pop's swing set

Libby accessorized to go help Mimi get the recycling bin -

*accessories include: apron, purse (including lipstick, 2 cell phones & mirror) & baby with bib

J.P., Nate and Libby swinging at the cabin in Heber.

Eating popcorn & watching a movie with the boys

About to make a mess...

Sliding with JP

Summer time!

2010-06-27T12:43:00.000-07:00

Summertime has brought us almost unlimited entertainment...I say almost, because this heat is pretty much torture, but besides the scorching heat we are having so much fun with Libby.

This summer is so different because last summer Libby was not walking which is hard to believe because she seems like such a big girl now. This summer we can run though the sprinkler, catch lightning bugs, go down the slide, go to the sprinkler park and so many other things. Sometimes I think Jeremy and I are having more fun than Libby. Watching her experience things for the first time has been a great perk to parenthood.

Here are just a few pics of what we have been up to!

Watermelon is hands-down my favorite fruit.

T.T., NaNa, Mamaw & Libby Lu

Swimming with Ansley

Playing in Pop & Mimi's backyard...

So cute.

Driving the boat at Sardis

If I am not swimming in the water, the next best thing is bobbing for ice cubes...

Having a great Father's Day on the lake!

Fiesta Forever!

2010-06-09T19:40:00.000-07:00

We just got back from a great vacation in Playa Del Carmen. We had such a good time and I am sad that our vacation has come and gone so quickly! There were plenty of things for Libby to get into. She LOVED the pool the airplane and the biggest hit was the "bus" (the shuttle that took us to the resort from the airport).

Here are a few pics from our trip...

Mimi, Libby and Pop riding the "bus" into town.

My favorite time of day - when I get to have a pop-pop...

Mimi and Pop enjoying the pool.

Normally I am a beach girl - If there is sand and water, I am under the umbrella on the beach.

However, this vacation with Libby was different. The pool was so awesome with lots of shallow space, and lots of people watching, and perfect for a little one.

Momma and Libby enjoying our version of "happy hour"

Libby and Pop walking

Daddy and Libby taking advantage of the swim up bar.

Another big highlight - the jacuzzi tub on the balcony.

It is where Libby bathed every night.

Bathing beauty

Daddy and Libby exploring on the beach.

Russell and Callie were another crowd favorite.

They were so helpful with Libby and she loved spending time with them.

View from our villa

Bath Time!

Libby enjoying her "bus" ride while Daddy sleeps.

More Life!

2010-06-09T18:38:00.000-07:00

We have moved in with Mimi & Pop and closed on our new house. Now we are just waiting to move in, hopefully it will be mid-August. We are very excited and are having lots of fun planning. During the midst of all of our home selling/buying chaos we discovered another great surprise.

While we are thrilled to share the news, I have to be honest when I say...I under-estimated this whole moving project, especially when being in the first trimester. I would have a huge list of things to do during Libby's nap time, and as soon as I started reading that book to her, the bed was calling my name too.

Packing was the last thing on my mind.

I think for two weeks straight I looked like I just got hit by a truck...I know it was not easy on Jeremy either.

I know coming home to an exhausted and cranky wife, needy toddler, a house full of boxes, and not a crumb to eat was not the most pleasant part of his day.

Luckily, like anything in life - it was just a phase.

A Phase we probably go through again when the baby gets here...

Not saying I am back to my Donna Reed ways or anything (I've never been like that)

but I do have more energy and no more packing boxes in my immediate future (which puts my mind at ease).

We are 3 months along today and looking forward to welcoming another little one right before Christmas.

Libby has a slight obsession with babies, but I am not sure what it will be like when one arrives on her turf 24/7 and takes some of the spotlight. It will be interesting because she has such a unique definition of the the word "share".

We are very blessed, very excited, and looking forward to meeting the little one!

Life is happening.

2010-04-22T10:26:00.000-07:00

My lack of posting has been for good reason. I always say that things have "been crazy" at our house, but this time I really mean it.

We have been contemplating the sale of our house pretty much ever since we bought the place...we knew we bought a "project" and unless we added on to it, we would have about 5 years here before we out grew it.

In February, it was 4 years and the market being like it is, we decided that now would be a great time to buy.

In March, Mimi, Libby & I went to see Jane and the girls. On this same weekend, Jeremy went to Heber Springs for a guys weekend. While he was there, he told me he met a guy that might be interested in our house...what are the odds?

I think we both knew God was in the details of all of this.

We were just about to list with a realtor when he met Andrew.

The next week, Andrew and his wife came to look at our house and soon after that we had a deal!

It all happened so fast, it was unreal. One minute we are finishing up our projects, discussing staging for open houses and the next minute it is sold - and a sign never went up.

This is a true blessing because there are 5 houses on our street for sale.

After signing a contract and feeling semi-homeless we began to have sellers remorse...our first house, Libby's first house, all our hard work, we love our neighbors and our neighborhood. What have we done?

I warned our realtor he was dealing with one of the pickiest couples in Memphis. He took it all in stride and we started shopping. Gary and I would go out during the day and look at houses and Jeremy would meet up with us after work to see the best ones that we had seen that day.

Now, when I say picky, I really mean it, but let me tell you who was the toughest of all, Jeremy.

I can honestly say with that if he ever had to buy a house for us and I couldn't be part of the search...I have full confidence he would do great, because the boy is very discerning. I love that about him.

Last week we finally found one and put an offer in. After much negotiating it all worked out and we are so excited!

Here is the kicker - The seller's are building a house that is not going to be done until August, so we are working with them so they can stay in their house until their new house is complete.

They have 3 young kids and the thought of being in an apartment with 3 kids and moving twice...ugghh.

So, we will being staying with my parents for the summer. Everyone who I tell this to rolls their eyes and acts like this is the worst thing. But I am really excited...

Someone to help cook and clean and extra entertainment for Libby...what's not to love?

I think I may have trouble moving out at the end of the summer, but I will be excited about our new home.

So, my near future is filled with boxes, packing tape and a POD.

Might not post again until June!

Lesson on sharing

2010-04-22T10:20:00.000-07:00

Aaaiiiicesssssss

2010-04-22T10:05:00.000-07:00

This is so stinkin' cute - I know I am partial, but it's the truth...

Happy Easter!

2010-04-07T12:36:00.000-07:00

We just celebrated a great Easter weekend. We had great weather and got to spend a lot of time with family and friends. We were able to go to church with NaNa and Papaw on Sunday and went over to their house to eat supper too.

Libby also enjoyed being a "spectator" at many Easter egg hunts this year...just being around other kids is enough excitement for Libby - she could care less about finding the eggs.

We went to the Easter egg hunt on the square in Collierville with Erin, Dustin & Ford...we had a picnic lunch and a milkshake and discovered the ever-exciting water-fountain (highlight of Libby's day)

We did miss seeing Mimi and Pop this weekend - they were on vacation in Mexico...we are going in May, so hopefully they will know the ropes after being there this month.

Enjoying the weather and a moment of being still...

Ford is so content in his stroller and so sweet.

Libby enjoying her vanilla shake.

Picnic time

trying our best to "share" the wagon - that is one of the big challenges lately...

Staying true to our roots - and keeping it real Saturday morning...as a child I was a very "free spirit" with my appearance and I hope Libby is too.

The Easter bunny found us!

Sunday Morning before church.

Playing in momma's closet - she did this herself...

(this outfit consists of 2 tank tops, underwear and jeans)

yes, that is underwear around her neck, not sure what that is all about but I do know it's clean...

Birthday Party Extravaganza

2010-03-31T12:58:00.000-07:00

My nieghbor Emily should make money event-planning.

Her little boy, Henry just turned 3 and we were invited to the birthday party & egg hunt at their house.

It was basically a small carnival.

It was so fun to watch Libby have such a good time.

I broke the cardinal rule of "never wake a sleeping baby" - but I was scared Libby would sleep through the party and miss it all. Once she saw all of the action across the street she perked up a lot.

Until, she noticed someone was occupying their red swing that hangs from the tree. Then she went on strike and proceeded to squat - to let us know she was not going to walk another step.

This is Jeremy trying to coax her out of her strike and foul mood.

The Easter bunny was there - handing out bunny ears. Libby hated him, but took the ears.

She wasn't happy until she was able to use the swing herself.

They had an egg hunt, but Libby didn't quite grasp the concept.

She did take a liking the the large yellow "ball".

Baby chicks in all colors...

And a little "vintage" carnival ride - Libby loved this too.

After the party we went home to play outside -

Pushing Byler in the swing.

Libby and Runyan cruising....we had a little incident earlier in the week - Libby fell out of the gator. It was not fun, but we just got a few tears and some scratches...

Runyan insisted we use a seatbelt this time and we came home injury free.

Took a trip on an airplane.

2010-03-22T22:15:00.000-07:00

The past few weeks have been a whirlwind...We went on a trip to Columbus, Ohio.
Mimi, Libby and I flew up for a long weekend to spend some quality time with the Morris girls.
We had such a great time together and had alot of fun watching the girls "interact" (or better yet watch Julia be ever mindful of everyone's actions, Maggie attempt to take Libby out, and Libby antagonize Julia and Maggie because its just so much fun)

It was great to have un-interrupted time together because it is just so rare.
Libby had alot of firsts that weekend. She got to go to Mother's Day Out with Maggie Moo Moo. I think she was upset at first, but seemed to do okay for the most part. She did some amazing artwork that I am sure the teachers had no part in at all.

She also had her first baby-sitter (meaning only family and close friends have watched her).
Miss Allie seemed to handle all three girls pretty well and Libby did just fine.

Mom, Jane and I enjoyed a little free time and also spiffed up the Morris home while we were there.
What is it about organinzing someone else's stuff? It's just better than diong your own house....

When we got home it didn't take long to start missing them. After a day or two cooking breakfast in chaos becomes kind of fun...it was quiet at our house and somehow Hagan was not as entertaining after spending time with Mimi, Julia, Maggie and Aunt Janie.

This picture pretty much sums up much of what we were dealing with - we are not used to sharing at our house.

Julia and Mimi practicing her letters...not sure if she has told you but Mimi majored in Child development and reminds us of that often.

Libby stealing grapes, taking a bite and putting them back in the bowl.

Ready for the big day at MDO - I never realized how much they favored each other.

Good Morning Moo Moo!

Julia showing Libby how all the toys work - such a good helper

Look at this face, the stride, determination...if this doesn't warn me for the terrible two's I don't know what does...she was on a mission for dips (chips) - at 9:00 in the morning...I pray alot during the day.

Libby always gets compliments on two things - her hair and her belly.

Hair: she has alot of it, especially for her age - and let me do this to it today.

Belly: it's round and cute, what's not to love?

And she's a bookworm...

My two favorite 5 year olds!

2010-03-10T19:42:00.000-08:00

We can't believe that our niece and nephew both turned 5 this week! Nathan was born on March 6th, 2005 and just 3 days later, on March 9th Julia was born. At the time they were the closest thing to actual children of our own and we loved "practicing" our future parenting skills.

It is crazy to think that they will be starting Kindergarten in the fall...where did 5 years go?

We love them both so much and wished they lived closer so we could make even more memories together!

Happy Birthday to my favorite 5 year-olds! We love ya'll!

Happy Friday!

2010-03-05T13:15:00.000-08:00

If you know Hagan & Libby, you know that snapping this photo was nothing short of a miracle.

My new favorite picture.

Have a great weekend!

We got wheels.

2010-02-23T14:35:00.000-08:00

This was Libby's Christmas gift that we decided to told off on.

She got it this past weekend because we had a day of nice weather.

I am trying to upload a video of Libby's driving skills.

She does not steer, just gives herself a good bit of whiplash while she mashes the pedal to the floor.

Video is acting up though, I will try it again later.

Just imagine someone driving with a sippy cup, animal crackers and not steering...that pretty much sums it up.

Spring, where are you?

2010-02-15T11:41:00.000-08:00

With all of this crazy Memphis weather we have been doing a lot of this -

I also want to mention that she can climb up there by herself and she does this daily...she loves to watch the squirrels, birds and the faithful walkers who weather the cold.

We have been out in it a little - but not much

We are getting creative with all of this time inside -

Libby finger-painting. This entertained her for all of 2.5 minutes.

Enough time for me to snap a picture.

Libby creating her masterpiece

Libby and her "babbules"...

new pics

2010-02-03T21:08:00.000-08:00

Yes, that is dried milk all over the fridge...guilty one pictured above looking so innocent.

We wore this outfit all over Memphis the other day...footie pajamas, cowboy boots over them and a jacket...we also wear this at home a lot.

Yes, this is the high chair that is meant for my baby dolls, I sit here daily, read a book, eat a snack. My mom is just glad I am sitting in it instead of standing.

Moving on up...

2010-01-21T13:55:00.000-08:00

The other day we had show day at Little Gym. Libby moved up a class. This past semester she was in the "birds" class and this semester she will be in the "beasts"...how fitting.

Swinging on the bars is her Fav.or.ite thing there!

She is such a show stopper and loves to be the center of attention in most crowds. So, she loved going up to receive her high quality 14 karat gold medal

(only kidding - plastic and made in china)

And she LOVES the bubbles.

This is her "look" I hate to say I think she gets it from her momma.

My friend Ashley has experienced this look from Libby before - when they volunteered to keep Libby for a little while. I think this was the permanent scowl.

Feeding her baby cheerios - such a good little momma.

2010

2010-01-03T21:10:00.000-08:00

This new year I hope you take the time to:

Put on your tutu & twirl...

Read a good book....

Head out for an adventure (don't forget your toast)

Eat healthy - but not too healthy...

Happy New Year!

Holly, jolly and exhausted...

2009-12-26T19:35:00.000-08:00

This Christmas has been so much fun. I think I was more excited than Jeremy or Libby. We have been going non-stop it seems for a week now. The first presents were opened on December 23rd and it didn't stop until December 26th...not to mention parties, shopping, visiting with family and everything in between. We have had such a fun-filled and jam-packed week, we are all starting to run out of steam. Libby has had a bad cold for the past few days, so that in addition to all that we have been doing has worn her out.

We were so glad that we were able to spend time with Uncle Martin, Robert, Zoey, Jonathan and Nathan and Uncle Russell and Aunt Callie. Libby has warmed right up to everyone and has had lots of entertainment.

Santa definitely found Libby this year, I had to get rid of a few toys already to make room for the new ones. If only we had a play room, that's what I am asking Santa for next year!
Hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas - Enjoy the pictures.

Libby the red nosed reindeer

Zoey, Robert, Jonathan & Nathan - an attempt at a family picture on Christmas Eve.

"Mary" and "Joseph" - a reenactment of the Christmas Story...Look how proud Joseph is, Mary looks like she has just taken her post labor pain pills.

What kid doesn't Love Russell and Callie? They are going to be great parents one day!

One of the highlights of Christmas Morning was holding the Elf.

Jeremy with Jonathan & Nathan
These boys are great entertainment and so sweet with Libby.

A picture of my Grandparents and their great grandchildren (a few grand kids had to jump in there to make the picture happen) Also, 3 are not pictured - 11 total.

You can imagine what opening presents was like with this crew.

This little holiday tradition has been going on for as long as I can remember on my Mom's side of the family. This is mostly for you all who are in the family and know what I am talking about - anyone else may just think we are crazy...speaking of, my uncle forgot to bring the explosives this year...dang.

Just wanted to share it with all of you and please, please ignore my American Idol winning voice in the background.

Nate, Libby & Jonathan at Snowy Nights at the Botanical Gardens

Mom and Libby enjoying a little down time.

Jeremy chasing Libby before we got 3 feet from Santa's lap and all she would do is say no and shake her head...maybe next year.

Mimi and Pop being festive.

Libby and Uncle Martin bonding.

Jeremy, Me, Nick, Jenna, Hillary & Russell - having a night out downtown...ha!

I am proud to say that this gift was a huge hit this year and I picked it out myself. It was fun shopping for superheros for a change..meet Batman!

2009-12-11T16:02:00.000-08:00

This post is long overdue...even I am tired of seeing the anniversary post every time I log in.
We just celebrated a great Thanksgiving here in Memphis. We missed all of the Given Clan, most of them traveled to Fort Lauderdale to eat turkey, but we stayed here and are looking forward to spending some time with them at Christmas.

We did get to spend some time with Jane, Wyatt and the girls...it was a great visit and everyone was healthy for the most part...Yay!
Mimi and Pop's house went from a construction zone to a daycare center in about 48 hours...by the time the Morris's got in town it was inhabitable but it took lots of work to get it there.
Construction is almost over and I know Mom and Dad are happy.

Duck season is upon us, pretty much meaning Christmas has come early for Jeremy...because as the weekend nears he gets very excited to wake up at 4 a.m. in the freezing cold and shoot a bird. I don't get it, but I am glad he is having fun. He is trying to convince me to come along one weekend, but it is going to take a lot of convincing.

Libby is a Mess with a capital "M". She is everywhere now, she LOVES Hagan and loves to discipline him and feed him everything she eats. She loves her manger scene that Mimi and Pop got for her - it has 80 pieces (give or take) and takes up her room. She can pick out Mary and Baby Jesus, but most of the men - Joseph, wise men and the shepard pretty much look the same...so maybe next year they will share the spotlight too...

The Christmas lights are quite a treat for us on our outings and if you are one of the people that sport the inflatables in your yard then Bless you! I have never appreciated those until Libby came along - now they are a big deal and pretty much determine our route when running errands, and if you see my car stop in front of your house we are not stalking you, we are admiring your decor and probably singing a song that corresponds with your inflatable of choice (i.e. Frosty the Snowman)

Enjoy the Pictures!

Libby has always hated Lowe's- until she discover this semi truck (disguised as a race car). The tables have turned...she loves it, I don't...

Libby playing with Bailey at Sardis

Surviving in Senatobia in the mass of children...Libby can hold her own for the most part.
(LtoR Yoriko, Emma, Julia, Holden & Libby)

Maggie, Julia & Libby

We try to dress them alike when we have the opportunity.

Snuggling with Curious George after a late night...

Julia and Wyatt playing their ipods.

Pop reading a bedtime story to the girls.

Jana supervising Holden and Libby.

Rub a dub dub...

Jeremy & Elizabeth sitting in a tree...

2009-11-11T19:01:00.000-08:00

4 Years ago on November 12th, Jeremy and I became a Mr. & Mrs.
It's hard to believe it has been 4 years, it doesn't feel like that much time has passed but when I look back and see all that we have accomplished together it is easier to believe.
I am so blessed! I could go on and on but I don't have the words to express how I feel.
Just a few pictures to re-cap the past....Enjoy.

This is the night we decided to become boyfriend and girlfriend...sounds so cheesy when I type it, but how else do you word it?

We had been to a 70's/80's skating party...

Our engagement photo - 9 months later

Our wedding - 6 months later

Then

This story would not be complete without a few details about home renovation...it is part of our DNA, I think...nothing is ever finished around here and honestly I don't know what we would do with ourselves if we moved into a brand new house...One thing is certain, I would really miss this little place - our first home together.

Now

Our house keeps us warm and dry, but it is nothing compared to our biggest "project" yet...Libby takes the cake. I don't know how people go through life without believing in God.

To have a child and raise one is proof enough for me that He exists. It's amazing to watch her daily and see Jeremy in her little personality and facial expressions.

Happy Anniversary Jeremy!

We are mobile!

2009-11-11T17:26:00.000-08:00

Just this past week or so we have REALLY been walking everywhere. It is definitely different for us...When Libby was crawling you could hear her coming or going and find her pretty quickly, but this walking business is a whole new ball game. On the up side, she isn't eating everything off the floor, but on the down side, now when we are running errands without the stroller she wants to get down and walk, and climb etc.

There are so many more activities that are Libby really enjoys now that she is walking. She LOVES being outside...just today we went to the playground, botanical gardens and we played outside in the yard.

going going gone...

We celebrated this weekend at my cousin's wedding. Anna Catherine looked gorgeous...Here are her and Uncle Bill dancing to "My Girl" -

We are very happy for her and Benton. Libby also loved the special occasion and I think she is going to love the dance floor as much as her momma does.

Sitting this number out...

Our little family...

She was a much better sport at the reception than the ceremony

With Mimi and Pop

Hold on Libby!

Libby became a fan of Runyan and his wheels this weekend...it was so cute.

Here comes trouble!

2009-11-01T18:01:00.000-08:00

This Halloween was much more eventful than last year...Libby loved all the festivities and tolerated her costume pretty well too. We did not do any trick-or-treating, but we had lots of fun. On Friday we got to wear our costume to little gym and on Saturday we had a little Halloween get together on our street. Libby loved having all of the trick-or-treaters come to the door and she would get upset when they would leave. We also go to celebrate a victory for the Bulldawgs!

Halloween 2008

Yee Haw - Happy Halloween ya'll!

This is the attempted group picture at our little gym class, a monkey, duck, lion and cow girl...

Enjoying a "whole" piece of pizza - holding the whole piece of food is our new thing.

pizza, pizza!

Cowboy Runyan and Cowgirl Libby Lu

In action with Daddy - look at that high-steppin'

Loving a Halloween hayride

This is my absolute favorite thing at little gym - swinging from the bars.

Happy Fall!

2009-10-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

Life has been good around here these days. This past weekend was very busy but a lot of fun.

We went to Little Gym so Jeremy could see all of the fun Libby gets to have on Friday morning. We also went to the pumpkin patch, the donut shop and to the zoo. We also watched football, the dawgs aren't doing so hot and I must say it is pretty painful to watch, but we cheer on the other SEC teams while we wait for our dawgs to improve...Here's to positive thinking!

Libby is starting to walk. While it is not her preferred mode of transportation, it is a fun trick she uses to impress us from time to time. It is very cute. See her progress in the video at the bottom.

Lulu posing with our temporary pet turkey...

Enjoying a donut hole at Gibson's

I look up to see my baby that has become a big girl...where did 15 months go?

Diane, Me, Mom, Jane & Jill on our girls retreat in Gatlinburg.

Me, Mom & Jane

Walking, talking & being maternal...

2009-09-22T19:23:00.000-07:00

This is a video of our most recent mobility...Nurturing is definitely instinct for females.

Libby loves this stroller and baby doll that NaNa gave her for her birthday, this is the only baby doll that gets to ride in the stroller all others are tossed out.

She loves to walk - but only with the stroller. See the footage below.

Our week in review ~

2009-09-15T18:24:00.000-07:00

We welcomed Jeremy home Sunday night after he spent a week in Colorado. We missed him so much but he had a great time...a much needed trip away from the every day routine here in Memphis.
I stayed busy here with Libby. I tackled a little home improvement project while Jeremy was gone. It took much more time than I anticipated but I am very happy with the way it turned out. Basically every time Libby went to sleep, I was painting, priming or wallpapering...resulting in a new look for our pantry/laundry room but a very tired Elizabeth.
Libby missed her Daddy and we are so thankful he is home safe and sound but so glad he had such a great trip!

Part of the ropes course they went on

The cliff Jeremy repelled from - I'll pass...

Mike & Jeremy

View from 12,000 feet

Call me crazy, but I don't think duck hunting will ever be the same after this.

Libby in the tent we built - her favorite thing about it was that it could be destroyed -

she did that, twice...

Her new thing is hiding underneath things.

Conversing with my buddy...

Guess what we are going to be for Halloween?

Yee - Haw

The hat is complements of Runyan's birthday party - at the petting zoo.

Libby loved it!

Pantry - Before

Pantry - After

I must say, putting away groceries is a lot more pleasant these days.

Little of this, little of that...

2009-09-04T04:54:00.001-07:00

We are getting excited for Fall and Football around here - Go Dawgs!

Jeremy is like a kid at Christmas. Not to mention, duck hunting is just around the corner.

I am just happy the weather has been so great, Fall is my favorite time of year.

I have been brainstorming our Halloween costume but nothing has come to me yet.

Libby has been very busy. She has pretty much dropped her second nap, the transition has been easier on her than it has on me. The good thing is her nap that she does take is longer, so that helps me out. We are not walking yet...crawling is much much faster.

We have started to do Little Gym which she LOVES! I love it too, it is so fun to watch her play. She is definitely the life of the party. She loves to be the center of attention and is very outgoing. When we walk into any public venue she waves to everyone.

She loves Hagan - she has learned how to play fetch with him and thinks it is hilarious. He can really make her laugh. Here are a few pics to enjoy.

I love the great outdoors

Sleeping Beauty

This is how I exit every room - turn to wave to let them know I will not be in their presence and then make a mad dash for something I shouldn't be playing with.

Naked time is fun. (or as we say it "nekkid")

Going in for the kill - hitting is our new thing - look at Hagan wincing - poor guy.

This was after a long day, she was pulling her hair down - I looked back to see that I was riding with a diva from 1982

Daddy is a celebrity around here - especially when mowing the lawn...

2009-08-21T17:36:00.000-07:00

Every weekend the grass needs to be mowed, and so out the door Jeremy goes to tackle the yard work...It has definitely become "the" event of the weekend for Libby.
We sit and watch and wave to him...not just a normal wave that EVERY person we encounter normally gets, but a huge full arm frantic Howdy-do type of wave. And she does this every time he passes by. This is also the only opportunity I have to cut her fingernails because she is mesmerized by our hero on the snapper. Normally a manicure is out of the question unless she is extremly side-tracked.

Her other new obsessions are doors & light switches - She loves to shut Hagan out of the room and then open the door and laugh at him, and turn the lights on and off.
We are still not walking and I am fine with that...still crawling and eating interesting things we find. This is such a fun age and she is so much fun to play with the down side is she has learned how to throw fits...

The other day she went in her room and shut the door on me...I am already having visions of the teenage years...Lord help me.

Going to the Chapel...

2009-08-12T19:51:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was a great one. We went up to Lousiville, Kentucky to Callie & Russell's wedding. It was so fun to see family & friends and to get to spend time with Callie's family too.

Libby didn't make all of the festivities - but she still had a great time! I have so many pictures so I had to make a slide show of this event. Hopefully I can post it without any trouble...Enjoy

My Big Fat Birthday Bash

2009-08-05T21:03:00.000-07:00

A year has come and gone and I can't believe it! Libby surprises me every day with the things she is doing and the way she copies everything we do...which is very cute, but scary at the same time. The other day we were running errands and I had a piece of gum. I look back at her and she too was chewing some imaginary gum. She is constantly watching and picking up new little tricks.

We had her birthday party the other weekend and we had a really good time. Papaw and Nana were very hospitable and let us entertain all of Libby's friends at their house. We were so thankful, our occupancy load at our house is slightly smaller. Enjoy the pictures!

If I could only reach the pedals...

Lizzie and Libby playing in the make shift water park

Nathan on the slide, I don't think he got off the slide once - except to help open presents...which was very helpful...

The Dad's had just as much fun as the kids did.

Ansley, Austin, Mari Lampton, Runyan & Mike playing in the pool

Since Dad won't let me drive his car, I guess this will do for now.

My cake!

I'm about to dig into this starchy delight and mom and dad want me to look at the camera?

Me and Mom getting ready to open presents.

I love my new wagon!

Oh where is my hairbrush?

2009-08-05T20:40:00.000-07:00

After a year of putting off the inevitable it was finally time for the first haircut we have been debating...to think we would be cutting the baby hair that Libby had just one year ago. And haircuts seem like such a big kid thing to do. But when your child looks like this when she wakes up, you know it's time.

On the way to the Salon

Sitting in Daddy's lap while Chris works his magic

Such a big girl!

Where did all of those months go?

I love my cousins!

2009-07-30T20:07:00.000-07:00

July was a big month for us and we are still going strong...Robert Zoey, Nathan & Jonathan came in town to celebrate the 4th of July. Zoey and the boys are still here visiting family and friends. Jane, Julia and Maggie also drove down for two weeks for a visit. It has been so much fun to see everyone and Libby loves being around all of her cousins.

Nathan & Libby after the Parade in our neighborhood.

The girls playing on Mimi & Pop's bed.

"Uncle Buzz" with Jonathan & Libby

Julia & Nathan after the Parade

Maggie Moo

Robert, Zoey & the boys on Jonathan's 2nd Birthday.

J.J. showing Julia how to use the crazy straw glasses

The girls on our outing to Muddy's Bake Shop - Libby practiced her cake smashing and Mimi loved every minute of it.

Jane & Moo Moo

All the girls like Pop's boots....

Julia wants to be a cowgirl when she grows up...never too early to test out your skills.

Girls just wanna have fun...

2009-07-30T19:57:00.000-07:00

We have had a few very fun playdates this summer. We went to Ansley's house recently and it was so much fun. We are so glad they are back in Memphis and we can't wait to meet her baby brother.
We also got together with Amelia at her Popsy & Foxy's house. They had us over for dinner and we all had such a great time. Amelia is also going to be a big sister soon! Mom says there is something in the water...

We loved tearing into Foxy's issues of Restoration Hardware and Pottery Barn

Amelia is up and walking - she is at the perfect height for man handling pigtails...they are hard to resist, I know...

Ansley has more toys than Santa's workshop...I loved it, I made sure to put as many as I could in my mouth - sorry Liz!

Summer - Good Cheap Fun

2009-07-30T18:57:00.000-07:00

Libby has made lots of new discoveries now that she is crawling everywhere.

Just to name a few...

1. She likes to eat dirt in any form or fashion, or any speck of something that the vacuum happened to miss, she now knows she is not supposed to eat this type of thing so she shoves it in her mouth before I can get to her...it really is gross...this is the only reason I am ready to have her walk...

2. A floor vent is so much fun!

3. There is nothing like a cardboard box that Mom uses as a choo-choo train to entertain me and keep me slightly confined...

4. Mom and Dad have already turned me into a book worm...so much so, that when I see certain characters in the book, I must give them sugar (i.e. - the mouse in Goodnight Moon - I heart him)

Goodnight house...

And Goodnight mouse...

5. My favorite days are Saturday and Sunday when Daddy wakes up early with me and lets Mom sleep in a little.

6. I prefer to sleep with one leg elevated...I'm all about good circulation...

7. This is my baby doll that I feed with this toy bottle - this was the point Mom and Dad were convinced that they produced a genius...

Dell, we are no longer friends.

2009-07-30T18:45:00.000-07:00

I must apologize for the lack of posts...Life here is great and moving faster than ever.

Our hard drive died on us a long time ago, it really wasn't that long ago, but when you are without online banking and you actually have to go to the bank and fill out a transfer slip...it feels like forever, or when you have to make a list of things to look up on the Internet until you are at work two days a week, again, it felt like eons...and when your work blocks facebook and your high school reunion is this weekend and you can't comment on the pictures other people posted of yourself from 1995 to defend why you wore a navy blue dress with ivory pantyhose and what look like orthopedic shoes to the Valentine's dance...well you just miss being connected to the world wide web...seriously what did I do before this?

Anyway- back to my disdain for Dell. After a combined total of 8 hours of being on the phone with someone named "Bill" or "Patrick" that has a very thick eastern accent - I truly despise Dell, their lack of service and the nerve to give you the run around when a product is under warranty...

So, after lots of heartache and almost losing all of our precious pictures of Libby (which we didn't) we are back to blogging and online shopping...
ok, enough of bashing Dell, I have a lot of new pictures to post...

Beach, how we love you!

2009-06-11T17:22:00.000-07:00

Summer is just beginning and I am sad to say that our vacation has come and gone. We had so much fun at Sea Grove Beach in Florida. Libby is a beach baby if there ever was one. She loved the sand, in fact she thought it was very tasty...she loved the waves. We would sit in the surf and she enjoyed the convenience of having the waves come up to meet her, unless it was a big wave that took us by surprise...She also liked going out in the ocean. We had a baby pool on the sand under one of the umbrellas. This is a must for a happy baby on the beach. Our site looked like a mobile daycare. Jeremy and I were overdue for a getaway. It was great to spend some time with Mimi, Pop, Jane Wyatt, Julia, Maggie, Russell and Callie. There were plenty of hands to help out, so it made our trip much more relaxing. Thanks y'all!

Our little paradise.

Mimi & Pop with their beach beauties!

No caption necessary.

Let me guess, you want to know my workout regimen? Yeah, I get that alot...

Our private pool...

...and our personal pool boy.

Libby was having one of those Corona beach moments.

This bikini was a touch down...
I don't think we wore the same bathing suit once...

Matching becomes cool again after you have a baby...ask any mom.

Maggie likes Pina Coladas and getting caught in the rain.

Aww...

Callie, obviously not of the Booth bloodline tanned much more rapidly than our clan did.

Uncle Russell and soon-to-be Aunt Callie

It's tough not to wake up with a smile when your baby's hair does this.

Seaside, anybody hiring down there? I love that place...

Julia & Callie hunting for crabs, Julia is not much of a hunter.

Her advice is, "If you see a clam, jump over it. If you see an ant, throw a stick at it. Butterflies and ladybugs are okay though."

If I ever go camping, she is coming with me - she is only 4 and obviously a genius on nature already.

Our little photo shoot -

What we should have photographed are the 6 adults jumping around like monkeys on the opposite side of the camera trying to get 3 kids to look at the camera at the same time and smile.
Again, matching is cool.

What?! you mean we have to leave this wonderful place called vacation?

We miss the beach and our cousins. Libby was bored the week we came back. Maggie & Julia were great with her and she loved playing with them...we are counting down the days until our next traveling adventure!

2009-05-18T05:10:00.000-07:00

It was another busy weekend here in the Given household. Saturday started getting our trees thinned out. The one in the front yard was overdue for some TLC. While we had a man repelling from the tree, we figured it would be great time to have him hang our swing from one of the branches. We had it on the swing set in the backyard...but the tree is much much more fun. Jeremy had somewhat of a work weekend. The tile in the bathroom got grouted and we ordered a shower door...while we are moving at a slow pace, I am thankful that we are making some progress. On Saturday night we went to see our friends Ashley and Andy at their new house. It was a lot of fun and Libby loved the attention and the change of scenery. The weather was cooler than usual, but very little rain! So we were able to spend a lot of time outside.

The big tree, after the make-over.

Same faithful swing, new great location.

Fell asleep in my Sunday best and woke up refreshed with this bouffant...

Hi Mom.

When Libby pulls the bow out of her hair (which happens often), you have to put it somewhere so you don't lose it.

1. Teach Libby to share - check

2009-05-15T20:08:00.000-07:00

Our neighbors, Leigh & Andy are expecting Baby #2...with all their preparations also comes a double stroller. They were offering free rides tonight to test it out.
Libby had so much fun, she just wished that pesky partition wasn't between her and Runyan.

We are all strapped in, any volunteers for a quick run?

What's that? Play hard to get? Nope, never heard of it...

Libby has Runyan re-thinking this whole sibling thing...

Is it wrong that this picture scares me a little?

While, Hagan and Libby are becoming fast friends...the only time Hagan really spends showing her affection is meal time.

The height of Libby's high chair and his eye level were meant to be. His favorite part of the meal is after Libby is out of her high chair - he loves being in charge of the clean up crew...makes things a little easier for me too!

Libby really does like her supper but she LOVES the attention from Hagan.

And to think before Libby arrived Hagan had only experienced a limited amount of table food and the food he did experience came with serious repercussions. As you can see from the video, his diet is changing with each new food Libby tries.

*Disclaimer - the actions caught in this video do not happen every meal time - if I can help it...just wanted to capture on tape for the blog.

2009-05-12T18:58:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was jam packed. We went down to Millsaps to see Russell graduate. We are so proud of him...now it is time for the real world!

Unfortunately I do not have any pictures of graduation...

Libby was a great little traveler. From riding in the car, sleeping through the night and napping through a nice dinner out and the graduation ceremony...this all gives me hope for the trip to the beach.

We also got together with friends at Theresa's house. She had lots of fun, but didn't understand how to share the spotlight with other kids...she is so used to being the star of the show, so she was sure to ham it up with all of her tricks whenever possible.

Speaking of tricks, she can now give sugar (which is an open mouthed kiss), wave hello & bye bye, and do touch down...

As always, Theresa was a great hostess and Libby had lots of fun.

It was so good to see everyone, especially Jodi & Hayes, they were in town from Houston. We wish we could see them more often.

Mother's Day meant much more to me this year than last year...being pregnant was a piece of cake compared to our daily routine these days but it is worth it!

Enjoy the pics!

L to R - Krissie, Me, Libby, Jodi, Hayes, Katie, Theresa, Louise & Katrina

Happy Mother's Day!

Libby after her supper at Thresa's house.

Touch Down!

rain rain go away...

2009-05-06T14:38:00.000-07:00

We all seem to have a case of cabin fever the past few weeks. This rain is for the birds! We are ready for some nice weather so we can play outside again...the days seem to drag by when it rains all of the time.

However, with this type of weather we have gotten lots of indoor projects done. the bathroom is tiled and it looks great! Since we only get to work on it on the weekends it is tough to make a lot of progress. Last weekend Jeremy had a marathon tiling day and completed the tile work. It looks so great and I can only imagine how great it will be when it is done. I will post pictures when it is finally complete.

We also celebrated Jeremy's 30th birthday...I think after a full day of home improvement he feels every bit of 30!

Libby has had a few milestones herself. We went to her 9 month check up. She weighs 19.8 lbs and is 29 inches long. (70th percentile for weight, 90th percentile for height). She is also cutting her first tooth, we can feel the bottom two coming through. And the other day when I walked in her room she was sitting up like a big girl...normally she is laying down looking up at me.

The doctor also said we could start table food. Libby loves it! I think I love it as much as she does...she finally gets to eat what we eat, for the most part.

Her new trick is to raise both arms for a touch down, she usually does this when eating...

No crawling as of yet, but I am not ready for her to crawl yet...we are headed to the beach soon and all I can imagine is chasing her in the sand and eating it.

So, I would love for her to become mobile AFTER the beach...until then a stationary baby is fine with me! Enjoy the pics...

I Love my swing in the backyard! Whenever we go outside I have my eyes on the prize.

Admiring my perma-bracelet and other various rolls....

Ready for the beach!

Playing in my room

Happy 30th Birthday Daddy!

April Update -

2009-04-13T07:05:00.000-07:00

The comments about not blogging have prompted me once more to update the blog...it is, in fact long overdue. My camera is filled with adorable new pictures of Libby and we have had many new adventures in the past few weeks.

Libby is still not crawling, but I know it will be soon, yikes...she is however full of personality and it is so much fun to hear her laugh out loud and watch her try to get Hagan's attention. He plays hard to get, but Libby does not seem to mind. Her favorite part about Hagan is his nubby little tail and she tries to grab it any chance she gets...Hagan does not seem to appreciate this.

Jeremy and I have been doing projects around the house, the bathroom renovation is still underway, but we are making progress slowly but surely. I use the term "we" loosely...Jeremy has done all the work, my job is to select the finishes and do just the right amount of wifely nagging, enough so he will get the job done and still be able to stand me at the end of the day...this balance seems to be working well so far.

We are very excited about Spring but this weather needs to make up its mind...Libby loves being outside so hopefully this week we will get some much needed sunshine and warm weather.

Enjoy the pictures!

Uncle Russell nicknamed me "Meat Stick" this weekend. Hmm, wonder why?

I was so excited to see NaNa & Papaw on Easter morning!

Pop helped me tame this wild hippo, wonder if he could help me tame my hairdo?

Yoriko, Emma, Elizabeth & Libby...hard to believe Libby was that size once!

Libby and the main man in her life.

We missed Jane, Julia & Maggie!

We can't wait to see them this summer!

Oreo looks concerned because I am thinking about squeezing & twisting this treasure I have found...

Our little chick!

Posing in Mimi & Pop's backyard, it's quite the showplace!

I think I am beginning to see why Julia likes Russell so much.

Playing with Pop and O-dog

Mom is already teaching me to fold clothes...never to early to begin a little child labor!

I love a rainy day, Mom and I made a tent, had a tea party and read some of my favorite books...and these PJ's stayed on most of the day...

Lindy & Brandon's Baby shower - Ashley and Andy were so sweet to let me ride with them to Nashville. It was a nice little weekend and it was great to see Lindy & Brandon.

Although you can't tell in this picture Lindy is due May 9th. She is so cute pregnant!

Trip to the Zoo

2009-03-16T11:27:00.000-07:00

Just the other weekend, we were so lucky to have some great weather. We were invited to a birthday party at the zoo and decided while we were there to take it all introduce Libby to some of the animals. The baby giraffe who was born last summer, just like Libby.

Jeremy and Libby meeting the panda who was obviously very uninterested.

Meeting the sea lions who had strikingly similar features to Hagan, minus the swimming ability.

Libby and Mom.

Worn out ofter a long day.
Doubt we will see much more of the pigtails, accomplishing this look was slight torture for Libby.

How to win friends and influence people....

2009-03-16T10:53:00.000-07:00

Libby's newest and best new trick is showing sheer delight to inanimate objects, strangers, and her own reflection. I love it and I know that soon she will be onto the next quirky milestone...but I would be happy if this one stayed forever...Because with expressions like this who wants them to change?

Along with this facial expression comes a funny exhale that sounds much like a small furry creature (no words to explain it really).

A little stuck...

Books are full of fiber...yum...

Gumby conforming to the shape of Dad's shoulders...

2009-02-26T06:49:00.000-08:00

The past few weeks have been flying by. It is so hard to believe that Libby is seven months old. So much has happened lately.

Libby got baptized in February and I also left her for the first time which was very tough to do. Jeremy did a great job while I was gone and I came home to a clean house and a happy baby. Mimi and NaNa helped out some while I was away. I know Jeremy appreciated it. Needless to say, I don't want to leave Libby again any time soon...she seemed to grow up so much in just a few short days.

One of my Christmas presents this year was a girl's trip to NYC. It was a ton of fun. We did so much shopping that not one picture was taken...so the only proof I have is some purses from Soho and lots of new clothes. It was nice to have some girl time and get some shopping done...any and everything I wore last summer was maternity or quite flowy - so my wardrobe was definitely in need of an update.

A long weekend in the big apple makes me appreciate southern hospitality, good food, and the cost of living in Memphis!
We are tired of this crazy weather and ready to be able to enjoy some time outside...hopefully we will get some sunshine this week and this snow will melt away.

Just before the big event, the girl can work a camera (when she wants to)...

All Bundled up!

Studying Papaw

with Mimi & Pop

Mary Lampton was very sweet and excited about her baby sister on the way.

Being social is tough work...

2009-02-15T18:37:00.000-08:00

Apparently, my blogging habits are lacking and comments on my lack of blogging is the only thing that gets me in gear sometimes...especially lately.

Life seems to be 200 mph these days. Whoever said the month of February is the dull days after Christmas was not living in our household. Jeremy and I have both been busy at work. Jeremy has also began renovating our upstairs bathroom. Right now we are in the demo phase of it, and it's not pretty.

Libby is growing and changing everyday and she is so much fun. We recently had her six month vaccinations and check-up. She is in the 75th percentile for height...and 50th percentile for weight. We also experienced our first ear infection, which was not fun. On the up side, Libby loved the amoxicillan (pink bubble gum medicine) so medicating her was not an issue. On the down side, our sleeping through the night regressed a bit and she has been waking up for a little love from Mom and Dad

Trying my best to get a profile shot of this sweet face.

Check me out in my awesome new hat, its all the rage at my playgroup.

Sitting up like a big girl...

Mimi and Mom played beauty shop with me the other day.

no words necessary for this cuteness...

relaxing in my bubble bath after a long day of eating, sleeping, playing, and being loved on...its a hard knock life.

Practicing my couch potato skills...

Working on my heel-stretch and hamming it up for the camera.

Our snow day in Memphis

Miss America 2026~

2009-01-24T06:51:00.000-08:00

Introducing Libby Given, contestant for Miss America 2026.

She enjoys sleeping on her stomach, Goodnight Moon and Gerber pears.

Evening Wear - a little ditty by Janie and Jack and gift from our friend Ansley Miller

Her platforms are:

~squash and carrots should be outlawed

~all moms and dads should have a repertoire of songs to sing to their children

~every kid should have a dog

~and who wouldn't love world peace?

Swimsuit - if you are wondering how I got these impeccable thighs, I must thank my Fisher Price Rain forest Jumparoo.

Talent - prepare to be amazed.

*Disclaimer - I do not support toddlers in tiaras, just thought since Miss America is on tonight we would get in the spirit...

Busy as a Bee-

2009-01-24T06:36:00.000-08:00

We have been so busy this week and now I am really feeling the aftermath...exhaustion, a cluttered house and an overdose of fast food because I have had no time to cook. Jeremy is enjoying the last weekend of duck hunting and Libby and I are finally enjoying our Saturday with absolutely nothing on our calendar - I love that feeling...

I am only six months old and I have mastered multi-tasking, I think I got this skill from my mom. I made a new friend this week, Lizzie. She was so sweet to me that Mom is re-thinking the breed of our next puppy...don't tell Hagan though.

Mom and I had dinner with Aunt Katrina, I let her hold me and I was such a sweet girl at the restaurant...I know one day I will enjoy fine dining - good thing they are showing me the ropes.

Is it spring time yet?

2009-01-19T15:03:00.000-08:00

It is very very hard to believe that our little Libby is coming up on 6 months of age...it seems like just yesterday I was in the first trimester of pregnancy toting around wheat thins and ginger ale because you never know when that nauseous feeling would hit...and now I am brainstorming for her first birthday party. Not only that I welcomed the big 2-8 into my life last week and I have already started thinking about baby #2. And by that I mean just THINKING...I don't foresee a sibling for Libby in the near future...but seeing how time seems to sneak up on me, I would hate to forget to have another child while I am thinking about what food for Libby to try next or what to do for her birthday...

I am almost 6 months old today and its doing a number on my mom...I mean look at me - would you want this face to grow up and start talking back?

I like to watch Hagan attempt to eat the mailman daily - its one of the highlights of our day

Mom gets herself ready and leaves my hair a hot mess...

Dad is tracking the ducks this season and keeping up with MSU football recruits, I am updating the blog on my vtech laptop, thank goodness for wireless...

it's never to early to start embarrassing your children - Jeremy gave Libby this awesome hairdo after a bath one night

Peace out!

Libby's First Christmas

2009-01-04T19:20:00.001-08:00

This post is quite overdue and Jane has even awarded me the blog slacker award...so in order to put that title behind me I thought it was time for an update...

Christmas came and went and what a whirlwind wind it was.
Does anyone ever relax over the holidays? I think Jeremy got in one quiet day over the week of Christmas but other than that it was non-stop...

Robert, Zoey, the boys and Martin all came in town and Libby finally got to meet her Uncle Robert and Uncle Martin. We also spent time with Jonathan and Nathan which was lots of fun...they have gotten so big and it was fun to get to see them almost everyday.

Jeremy got in some duck hunting and we celebrated our first Christmas with Libby and it was great. Also everyone was healthy and things seemed to go pretty smoothly this year. We are very thankful for that since our Christmas last year was consumed by the stomach bug and it was no fun at all.
We are very grateful that everyone had safe travels and we all stayed germ free!

Santa found us all on Christmas morning.

On the 23rd we celebrated with the Sides family - Above are all the great grandchildren (minus Julia & Maggie - they were missed!) Left to Right - Hugh, Bel, Mary Eliza, Elizabeth, Holden, Katherine, Ella, Matthew & Libby. Obviously we have a shortage of boys in the family.

Libby playing with Michelle, Mary Eliza & Jana

Libby finally got to meet Robert - or as she will call him "Uncle Buzz"

Uncle Martin gave Libby her first Raggedy Ann doll.

Chewing those fingers while waiting to open presents with Pop...the suspense was almost too much...

Soon I will have a crush on my uncle Russell like my cousins do, I just don't know it yet.

Chubby Cheeks and Nathan did some bonding...

Mimi and Libby excited about all of the Chico's boxes under the tree...Mimi must have been really good this year.

Mom and Lu Lu got to eat lunch with the girls - she was dying to wear her new Christmas present from Maggie and Julia...

Libby, Nathan & Jonathan very happy about what Santa brought...

Libby is trying on her first pair of high heels from Crystal...like most shoes its all about style, not comfort - she is learning that early in life...no one said being a girl was easy...

Nathan & Jonathan going off road...

Na Na & Papaw with the grand babies...all of them in one place is a rare event and a great Christmas present!

Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens...

2008-12-19T13:51:00.000-08:00

Today while riding in the car and listening to Christmas music, I heard the song from Sound of Music...I know it is always played at Christmas, but I am not sure why because it doesn't seem very Christmasy - Christmasy may not be a word and if it is, it probably isn't spelled right...

Anyway- I started to list some of my favorite things to myself and I thought I would just go ahead and share a few...

~ when I overhear Jeremy and Libby "conversing" through the baby monitor, it is pretty sweet. It's also funny when he is changing a diaper that is fuller than expected...I keep waiting for them to mention a Christmas present for Mommy - but that has yet to happen...

~when I walk in Libby's room and she has her head up looking for me, usually I am singing so she is all smiles until she spots me and then she gets really excited...I never knew an infant could make me feel like a rock star...

~my small group girlfriends - we call it bible study, but it is much more than that. The group has been around for awhile and it has changed. People have come and gone and regardless of the faces that are there this small group has been so great for me over the past few years. I have grown in so many ways. The other night we had our second annual PJ party and ornament exchange - It was a pretty good time...nights with the girls are very refreshing and I am thankful that I am a part of such a group...and also thankful that Jeremy understands how much I enjoy this time and he is always excited to spend quality time with Libby so I can have a night every now and then.

~ a Christmas card especially one including a photo...

~tradition -this is the first year we will spend the night at our house on Christmas Eve and I am pretty excited about Santa coming and starting a few traditions.

~Libby's grandparents - Mimi & Pop and NaNa & Papaw - they are so generous with their time and I really appreciate all that they do for us and I know Libby does too...

Libby also has a new favorite...see the video below - please excuse Hagan's nose...

Santa Claus is coming to town...

2008-12-08T09:07:00.000-08:00

We have been pretty busy lately with Thanksgiving and now preparation for Christmas. I am way overdue for an update.

We loved seeing Julia, Maggie, Jane and Wyatt over thanksgiving, but hated that the stomach bug attacked them as well...Libby loves her cousins (especially Julia - she could always manage to make her smile)

We also had our 4 months shots and checkup. Libby is doing great and right on track. The shots of course were tough, but after a little love she was just fine. She weighed in at 14 lbs. 3 oz. and is 26" long (or as we like to say, 2'-2")

We are in the 95th percentile for height and 75th percentile for weight.

We put up our tree last night and it is finally starting to feel like Christmas around here.

We are very excited about Santa coming to our house this year and our first Christmas with Miss Libby Lu.

While decorating last night, Hagan stood and watched - we had decorations everywhere and there was really no place for him to lay down...Little did I know he was plotting his next move...I finally looked up to see him with Libby's rubber duck in his mouth...I remember him watching intently during our bath - I had no idea he had zoned in on a victim. Libby's rubber duck is now tucked away safely, Hagan knows it is the bathroom so now he goes in there and sits and whimpers - We have decided Santa needs to bring him his own rubber duck.

See the pics below of all our latest adventures....

If I stand real still I bet they won't notice this hot pink rubber duck...

Okay - If I promise not to destory it, can I just hold it in my mouth??

Before enjoying my delicious single grain rice cereal...

after...Thanks for the festive bib Papaw - just wearing it makes me feel jolly...

Momma's little elf - looking very much like her dad in this picture...

Baby, it's cold outside!

Did someone say Santa?!?

Julia & Libby

Julia playing in the leaves - before the stomach bug hit...

30 minutes later - after the episode...so sad...

Mom - all I want for Christmas is a huge mirror and some of this crinklely paper - the Doctor's office is so fun!

Libby's Laugh

2008-11-24T13:43:00.000-08:00

For those of you who know me well and I mean really know me, then you have heard my laugh - the type of laugh you get when someone holds you down and tickles you...it is much like a farm animal in distress (not one of my proudest features). Anyway- looks Like Libby might take after her Mom in this category. Trust me when I say it is much cuter when she does it. Enjoy!

(please ignore my singing - Libby is the only one who appreciates my non-existent talent)

**we are all feeling much better this week and are back to life as usual!

***also I forgot to mention that the star that sings in the last post is compliments of NaNa, Thank you NaNa - Libby loves him!

Another one bites the dust....

2008-11-21T07:56:00.000-08:00

Libby and I are both back to normal (for the most part). She is still having a few interesting diapers but she is much more herself and has much more energy. She is out of routine with being sick so we are having to re-learn how to fall asleep in her own bed again...I have had a couple of long night this week.
This morning Jeremy left for work as usual and then returned home about an hour later...I think the bug caught up with him. At the moment Libby is napping and so is Jeremy...looks like I will have another patient to tend to. At least we are getting it this week and not the day of Thanksgiving, it would be a sin to not eat all of that great food next Thursday.