The Sanders Files

Spring Break

2011-05-10T13:48:00.004-05:00

During Spring Break, Xander got to spend a couple nights with us and the 3 of us had so much fun! Tuesday we met a bunch of friends at the Dollar Theatre and saw Tangled. That was Enoch's second time to got to the theatre and he did great again! The first was Christmas night and we saw Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part 1 and he did excellent then, too!
Wednesday Xander spent the night. I was putting Enoch to sleep and Xander wanted to help, and cuddle, too! It was funny because Enoch kept laughing at Xander, which kept him from following asleep!

The next day was St. Patrick's Day! I gave Xander a St. Patty's pin and some socks to wear with his Phineas and Pherb tshirt (one of those guys has green hair) and we all had green to wear so we wouldn't get pinched while we were out shopping for wedding stuff! Or as Xander called the shopping experience, "How many more torture chambers are we going to?" Honestly he was so good! Both boys were! Since Xander was so good, Pam bought him a science kit that made your very own bouncy ball! When we got home that night, Xander was eager to make it, so Jared obliged and helped him! The next morning it was dry and we could play with it! My favorite part was Xander making up a rap song on how he made the bouncy ball! He rapped, I echoed and Xander, Enoch, and I danced in the kitchen!

The next day, Friday, Xander, Enoch, and I played outside. Xander painted on a canvas my mama bought him in Hobby Lobby for being so good! Oh before that, I decided to do Enoch's handprint in this plaster kit Pam bought him.It turned into a disaster that had me laughing, Xander telling me I was nuts, and Enoch screaming bloody murder! First, the plaster dried before I could get Enoch's hand in it. Then I came up with a brilliant idea to put blue fingerpaint on Enoch's hands and make the prints on the dried plaster. Enoch wouldn't open his hand to make a print, all the while screaming because this was not fun for him! I was on one side cleaning Enoch's hand with baby wipes and Xander on the other side cleaning that hand with baby wipes! Somehow I ended up with more paint on me than the two boys! I somewhat got a handprint, about as good as the nurse the day Enoch was born, and had fun doing it, but I may have been the only one! Needless to say, Enoch ended up in the bathtub turning his bath water blue!

4 months old

2011-04-26T07:07:00.002-05:00

I had trouble getting a good shot of Enoch this month. He was hungry in this picture, too, just like last month. I need to do better with the timing. Oh well!

Bumbo!

2011-04-26T06:59:00.002-05:00

Here are some cute pictures of Enoch the first time he sat in his Bumbo seat.

Here are some pictures of my handsome man before church one Sunday night.

Rice Cereal

2011-04-26T06:48:00.004-05:00

On March 11,2011, Enoch tried rice cereal for the first time. Her also sat in his highchair for the first time as well. He seemed to be indifferent about the rice cereal. He ate it, but didn't seem to love it or care much at all.

A Sunday afternoon with a friend...

2011-04-26T06:35:00.003-05:00

Xander wanted to hold Enoch after lunch one Sunday. I think Enoch has grown on Xander and now he really loves him! It's so sweet! He just needed to know we still loved him just the same as we did before Enoch was born!

Wedding Hoopla

2011-04-25T07:13:00.006-05:00

My sister got engaged to the love of her life, Chad, in January! Here is a pic of her gorgeous ring!

One Saturday in February, a group of us (Mama, me, Enoch, Aunt Kendra, Erica, and Sarah) went shopping with Pam to find a wedding dress and she found THE dress and she said YES! Here she is in a wedding dress, but it is not THE dress! THE dress will not be revealed until the BIG day!

Pam with Erica

My mama when Pam decided to say yes to her dress!

The next day, Sunday, we all had lunch at my parent's house and then went to a Bridal Show. Uncle Jojo came home this weekend, too, and loved on Enoch and Xander! Such a great weekend!

Valentine's Date

2011-04-25T07:07:00.002-05:00

Jared and Enoch took me out to eat for Valentine's Day. Here is one of my dates, Mr. Perfect!

Enoch at 3 months old

2011-04-25T06:58:00.003-05:00

Here is Enoch at 3 months old! He is hungry and would rather be eatting instead of having his picture made!
I love this mad face!

He is so handsome!

Bible Class

2011-04-25T06:38:00.009-05:00

Here are some pictures of Enoch sitting in the seats in Bible class for the first couple of times! He looked like such a big boy! Enoch has been going to Bible class since he was about a week or so old!
This is Enoch in his Wednesday night Bible class.

Coleman is one of Enoch's buddies. He is looking at him like, "What are you doing here?"

Enoch's Bible class! Such a cute group of kids!

Enoch's feet dangling!

Look at those cute boots!

Here he is in Bible class on Sunday morning!

Pictures of Enoch

2011-04-04T06:51:00.003-05:00

Here are some random pictures of our pride and joy!

Enoch before Wednesday night worship.

O Came to Visit

2011-04-04T06:43:00.005-05:00

Jared's dad, O, had a conference for work here in Birmingham, so he, of course, came to visit Enoch!

Jared's mom, Bebe, sent Enoch a giant stuffed dog for Valentine's day! Enoch is so lucky to have such loving grandparents!

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-04-04T06:33:00.004-05:00

I made photo postcards for Valentine's Day to hand out.
This is the picture that was on the postcard. (Not sure why it is turned...)

I had fun taking pictures of my smiling boy!
Here are some of the outtakes!

Brianna's 13th Birthday

2011-04-04T06:23:00.005-05:00

In January, my cousin, Brianna, turned 13! I taught her when she was in 2nd grade which makes me feel old! She is such a sweet, tender-hearted, young lady and I am so proud of her! Her party was held at the large fellowship hall at Roebuck Parkway Church of Christ.
The birthday girl

Marley and Enoch

Aunt Georgia and Enoch

Uncle Lloyd and Enoch

Visiting with Family

2011-04-04T06:19:00.002-05:00

In January, we went to Georgia to visit Aunt Kendra and family and my Grandma and Grandad. Enoch got to meet Great Grandad and Uncle Eric!

Enoch at 2 months old

2011-03-30T10:50:00.002-05:00

Here is Enoch at 2 months old. I have the stats written in his baby book, so I won't write them here. He is still a joy and blessing to us and I love our life with him in it!

Enoch's First Theatrical Performance

2011-03-30T10:37:00.002-05:00

Back in January, my brother was in a community play. My parents, Enoch, and I went to see it! My Grandma and Aunt Kendra also met us there. The play was such a good little historical play! Enoch was so good, like he always is! We celebrated afterwards with lunch at Dreamland BBQ! It was such a fun day!

Enoch and Uncle Jojo

A Snow Day!

2011-03-24T02:17:00.003-05:00

Birmingham experienced a "Winter Storm" that keep us all in the for the day! We played games, ate good food, stayed in our pjs, and enjoyed time together! Enoch and I enjoyed daddy being home all day with us and was sad to see him return to work the next day!

Sundays are for worship and naps!

2011-03-24T02:03:00.004-05:00

Enoch on his way to church!

A nice Sunday afternoon nap with daddy!

Enoch's First Trip to the Zoo

2011-03-21T13:09:00.009-05:00

One Friday in January, Enoch and I went to the zoo with Katie, Hannah, and Jaiden. It was a cool and breezy day! Enoch spent the whole time asleep! I dressed him in his monkey outfit and took his pic next to the monkeys. He had no idea, but I had fun anyhow!

Happy New Year

2011-03-16T06:34:00.005-05:00

We were invited to celebrate New Years' Eve at the Kelsey home. We had a great time!
Enoch rang the new year in with Mary holding him!

Enoch ready to spend the day with daddy and mama before daddy goes back to work after his Christmas vacation.

Enoch sporting his "Babies First Christmas" hat one last time before packing it away. Thanks Mrs. Leeann and Keri for that and the matching stocking!

Enoch wearing his "My Auntie is Awesome" shirt Aunt Pam bought him!

White Christmas

2011-03-15T06:05:00.009-05:00

This year we woke up on Christmas morning to a white Christmas! That never happens in Alabama! I was getting dressed to go to my parents house and I receive a text from my brother that said, "Look out your window! It's snowing!" I immediately looked out the window and got all giddy! It was all kind of magical, a white Christmas, Enoch's first Christmas, so much to be thankful for!
When we got to my parent's house we all took pictures in the snow before beginning our festivities!

Enoch in front of the Christmas tree in his room with his gifts!

At our house in the snow!

At my parents' house!

Uncle Jojo said it was too cold so he took Enoch inside!

Opening presents!

Enoch's first Christmas! Outfit compliments of Great Uncle Lloyd and Aunt Georgia!

Christmas Eve

2011-02-15T16:49:00.005-06:00

During this second month, Enoch kept having problems tee-teeing out his diaper. I gave Enoch a bath so he would be all nice and clean for our Christmas get together. He had been having a bad habbit of wetting clothes before we got to where we were going. I mean, this is a predicament when you have a select few of Christmas clothing choices! And this is just so important to me, for my son to be smartly dressed for every holiday! :) I thought I was being real smart, despite the extreme lack of sleep, and put him in his bathrobe right up until time to leave. He looked so adorable and even gave us his first official smile AND i caught it on camera!

We took photos of Enoch under my parent's Christmas tree. My grandma got him this shirt this summer and it says, "The best things come in small packages!" So true! Enoch is our best gift!

Enoch and his proud mama!

Gramma with Enoch! If you look closely at the pictures of Enoch under the tree, you might notice a wet spot on Enoch's jeans. He leaked again! So, we had another wardrobe change!

Christmas with my dad's family

2011-02-15T16:32:00.006-06:00

I love getting together with the Glenn family! I always have a good time!
It cracked me up when we walked in and my cousin, Chandler (1st grade) exclaimed, "Can Baby Enoch walk now?" So funny! I mean, Enoch is smart beyond his years :), but he's not walking, yet!

Joseph's first time changing Enoch's diaper!

Xander came too! When Pam, Joseph, and Xander were walking to the front door of my aunt uncle's, Xander asked, "Pam, do you think there's a present for me under their tree?" Pam, knowing mama and I had brought our gifts for Xander so he would have something to open, replied, "I think there is Xander!" To which he said, "Awww! I knew they (my dad's family) loved me!" He is such a sweetie, and a little spoiled because they all gave him money and he ended up walking away with $25 and bought himself a video game!

Enoch-1 month old

2011-02-15T08:26:00.002-06:00

Enoch is growing too fast, in my opinion! By 1 month he could do the following:
*Roll over to his side (he likes to sleep this way)
*Ate 2-3 ounces of formula every 2 or 3 hours
*Recognized mama and her voice and daddy and his voice
I love when Enoch naps and sleeps on my chest! It's the best feeling in the world! Being his parents is such a blessing and Jared and I are loving every minute of it!

Cute Pics of Enoch from December 2010

2011-02-11T13:37:00.004-06:00

EJ Announcement

2011-02-04T11:23:00.001-06:00

Andante Dots Cerulean Baby Announcements

Turn your favorite photo into a birth announcement.

View the entire collection of cards.

Enoch at 3 and 4 weeks old

2011-01-22T14:56:00.004-06:00

Enoch getting ready to go visit Gramma at work!

6th Grade and Under Christmas Party

2011-01-22T14:38:00.007-06:00

Enoch is ready to go to his first Christmas party!

The kids playing games!

Enoch had a wardrobe change because of a lil bathroom accident! :) Pam bought Enoch this onsie, "All I want for Christmas is my Auntie!"

Jared and his two buddies, Jaiden and Coleman .

Bayley wanted Pam to sit in her lap!

Random Enoch Pictures

2011-01-22T14:28:00.006-06:00

Aunt Kendra, Grandma, Dillion, and Erica showed up at my door Thanksgiving night! What a wonderful surprise! They couldn't stay away from Enoch so Uncle Eric told them to go! We were so excited to see them! We had a fun weekend with them!
The day after Thanksgiving, Randy and Tara Nel drove in from Nashville to meet Enoch! We can't wait to meet their Jacob in a few months!

Enoch getting ready for the holiday season! Thanks Mrs. Katie for my "Babies First Christmas" sleeper!

Enoch at 2 1/2 weeks old!

Our Thanksgiving Blessing

2011-01-22T14:14:00.006-06:00

We had A LOT to be thankful for this Thanksgiving! We celebrated the big day with both sides of our family! It was so nice! Enoch was the star of the day!

I am so thankful for this boy!

Enoch's First Two Weeks

2011-01-12T16:52:00.010-06:00

Enoch's first bath

Enoch, 1 week old

Enoch chillin at the house

Enoch watching the Bama game with his daddy!

Enoch's first trip to Sunday worship.

Enoch's first trip to Gramma and Pop's

Mrs. Killian and Miss Tracy come to visit and bring us a tasty dinner!

Enoch's Birth Part- Coming Home

2011-01-11T20:41:00.003-06:00

We checked out of the hospital Monday, November 15, 2010. We were sad to leave the wonderful nurses, but anxious to bring Enoch home!
We wanted to bring Cheri home with us!

I made Enoch's coming home outfit and matching blanket on the sewing machine that was Jared's Grandmama's (and is now mine). Jared picked out the material. My friend, Tracy, taught me to sew and monogrammed for me.

Enoch's Birth Part 4

2011-01-11T17:25:00.007-06:00

Sunday, November 14, 2010:
We woke up and found out that Enoch would have a busy morning and I, too! First, he was taken to have his circumcision done. The nurse said he did great! She said they put sugar on his paci and he whimpered just a second and then sucked the life out of his paci. She said that he loved his first taste of sugar! We could tell because he had a ring around his mouth where the paci had left a mark! Next, we told him how we would normally be at church on this day. While Jared showered, I sang him some Bible songs and then when I showered, Jared sang to him. I know it's corny, but we are already trying to fulfill Proverbs 22:6. Plus, it was sweet because Jared didn't know I had been singing to him because I stopped when he got out of the shower because my voice was still hoarse from labor and not having any water for so long. So, when I got out of the shower and heard him singing to Enoch I thought it was so sweet! I told Jared we must think alike because I had done the same thing. Everything seemed normal as I got dressed. Pam had bought Enoch and I matching pj's to wear and so I was excited to put mine on. Jared, with the help of our favorite nurse, Cheri, dressed Enoch in his going home outfit (he put his matching one on later, we took a picture together, and then Enoch spit up ALL over his and so we only matched for a short while), which I sewed myself, because he was to have his hospital picture made. The photographer showed up as I was finishing dressing and began setting up. Suddenly my vision became blurred and I had the worse headache. Remember the incompetent anesthesologist who thought he might have went through my spine for the epidural and then covered himself and said, he didn't think he did? Well he did and I was having the side effect of it! I told Jared how I felt and he called the nurse. She came in and wanted to rule it out as a regular migraine, but I knew that's not what it was. So while Enoch had his picture made, Jared helped and I sat in the recliner with a pained smile on my face. The photographer was real sweet to me, but I told her to ignore me and take his picture because I wanted them to turn out well. She was so kind and tried to hurry! Watching Enoch have his pics made and seeing the one where Jared holds Enoch's head in his hand took my mind off of my discomfort! Anyhow, the pictures turned out beautifully! Well it ended up that I had to have a blood patch done, which by the way, was the worst experience I had while at the hospital! Well the anesthesologist came in and began doing his thing, sloppily I might add! He then said, "The doctor that did this didn't know what he was doing." Jared looked up at him and wanted to say, "Well actually, you were the ya hoo who did it!" But instead, Jared just stared at him! What a ding-dong! Then I had to lie flat for an hour which ended up being time just right as my uncle and cousins had just shown up! After they left, I got up to go to the restroom and discovered that the anesthesologist who did the blood patch spilled blood all over me and I was covered in blood! Luckily the nurse had my gown pulled up to my neck so it didn't get ruined and also lucky I took a quick picture with Enoch in his matching pjs before this all started! After that I just wore the hospital gowns because I didn't want mine ruined.
We had several visitors this day as well!

Enoch's birth Part 3

2011-01-10T11:28:00.008-06:00

Saturday, November 13, 2010:
Saturday was a day filled with visitors! Jared and I loved getting to show Enoch off! That evening was an Alabama football game and Enoch was ready! The nurses all commented on his head-to-toe Bama outfit! The lady who dropped off the papers for the birth certificate came and and said, "So this is the baby I heard I had to see! The nurses in the nursery keep talking about this baby dressed in Bama!" We were talked about! We knew Enoch was special and now everyone else thinks so, too! Hehehe! Bama won, but Jared paid more attention to Enoch than the game! Jared's parents, brothers, and sister-in-law watched the game with us in our hospital room!

Enoch's Birth Part 2

2011-01-08T15:17:00.011-06:00

Ok, so the nurse shooed everyone out so I could have my epidural. I was able to tolerate the pain, but was ready for the epidural, more because I was afraid of the future pain, the unknown. Anyhow, the anestheologist went thru my spine and fluid came out, so he had to restick me. He was the most incompetent person at the hospital, everyone else was wonderful! The epidural began to take except on my left side. The nurse just kept giving me boosts until I no longer could feel my left side either. It was the strangest feeling to have a contraction, but only feel it on my left side and the right side of my body be completely numb! Things were calm in the room and Jared and I both were enjoying the experience and anticipating the arrival of our baby boy! After pushing for a while, they had to give me oxygen. Enoch was in distress and went to sleep right at my pelvic bone. Jared knew more about what was going on than I did, but I remained calm because we were in good hands. Then the nurse told us they would probably have to use forceps or vacuum to get Enoch out! This was the one thing I did not want to happen. The nurse told us our doctor was the best at using these devices; however, this did not make me feel better about it. I didn't worry too much about it because I was beginning to feel the exhaustion, plus I just knew that we wouldn't need to go that route. Our nurse was beginning to seem a little worried, but I thought it was because she had mentioned that Enoch's head may be too large to come through. He was right there! We knew he had a hair full of dark hair and we knew he had an ear! The nurse couldn't wake Enoch up to get him to make his debut, so she got the doctor to come in. We found out that my pelvic bone was too small and Enoch could not fit through (and we later found out his head was actually on the smaller side than average :) ). Now we were being told we would be having a C-section and that we could get to hold our baby in about 30 minutes! I went into this delivery with no expectations so that I could just roll with whatever came our way. I cried when they told us we would have to have a c-section. I wasn't against it or upset about it, just hormones I suppose! Jared sent a text to the family and friends in the waiting room and told them what was happening. My mama wanted to see me real quick before they took me to surgery and Jared's mom came in too. Mama hugged me and told me everything was going to be fine and we would soon have our baby. The nurse sent them out and then they prepared me for the surgery. They gave Jared some scrubs to change in to and told him he would be the last person admitted to the room and not to come in until he was told. This did not make Jared happy because he thought they might forget about him and he wanted to be in the OR with me. Every person that came to the door was stopped by Jared and asked if he could come in yet. He was very anxious! Finally my doctor arrived and they let Jared in. Oh! I forgot to mention that they epidural gave me the shakes and chills which in itself was tiring let alone the worse part of having Enoch. It was so annoying to just tremble for hours. It literally wore me out. Also, before this, the epidural had begun wearing off on my left side, so I was given several more boosts before my left side went numb again...just in time...the doctor had just arrived! The people prepping me didn't seem too concerned or didn't seem to completely believe me, but I kept telling them, it's not pressure I feel, I can actually feel all of the little testing tricks they kept doing on me to see if I was numb! I didn't want to feel them cutting me or burning my flesh! Well, it all worked out and I began crying as I heard the first cries of my baby boy! Jared was gving me a play-by-play of what was happening that he could see. The nurse took many pictures with our camera and then placed enoch in Jared's arms. It was such a beautiful sight! Then the nurse had Jared lay Enoch at my shoulder and she took our picture. I cried the happiest tears! Then the sweet nurse took Enoch back to the other side of the room to perform the routine tests and all. She held him up and said, "Daddy, this is definitely your son! He looks just like you!" She couldn't get over how much Enoch favored Jared! When they were done with Enoch and I, they placed him in my arms and wheeled us back to our room! We couldn't wait for everyone to meet Enoch! As they wheeled me around the corner to our room, I saw Pam in the hallway and called to her. I said, "Pam, he looks just like Jared come see!" She began crying and jumping up and dowm with excitement. It was the the sweetest moment! Then I saw Aunt Kendra going into the waiting room and called to her. She gave us the biggest grin and she and Pam followed us to our room! They wheeled us in and it was such a blur, I felt like a celebrity, there were so many family members in our room grinning and crying and snapping pictures with cameras and cell phones! I was laughing and crying tears of joy all at the same time! We are so blessed and loved! Many friends and family came for all over to meet our sweet Enoch!
After everyone got a peep at Enoch, the nurse sent everyone out so Jared and I could have some time alone with Enoch. The doctor comes in and informs me that they will be taking me for some tests soon because her hand bumped my bladder when they were lifting Enoch out and she wanted to make sure that was the reason for blood in my urine. She also informed me that my incision was longer than normal because Enoch was so far down in the birth canal. Enoch's nurse let me feed him before they took me for tests. Little did I know at the time, but these tests are what hurt my chances of nursing. They would be pumping dye through me (the lab techs seemed to be ignorant and air headed, but they didn't harm me :)) and so I wouldn't be able to nurse for two days. I'm ok with it now, but it took me a while to accept it. It all worked out in the end! Ok, so after our time together, we asked for our families to come in. I got to see my mom, Jared's mom, and Joseph hold Enoch, and then they took me away for over tow hours! This did not make either Jared nor I very happy! More Jared because I was somewhat looney with drugs and natural highs! :) While I was gone Jared got to feed Enoch a bottle! He and Pam made sure they took pictures of everything for me! I am very grateful for that!
Here are some pictures of the BIG day, November 12, 2010!

Enoch's birth Part 1

2010-12-16T11:02:00.019-06:00

The week Enoch was born was a very busy one for us. We were having a gospel meeting at church all week which meant fellowship meals and worship every evening. This is an incredibly uplifting time, but can be very exhausting as well, especially at 37 weeks pregnant! I was uncomfortable and having pains and pressure as Enoch was already very low in the birth canal. On Tuesday, November 9, the doctor told me that Enoch would not make his due date and would be here any day. Also at this same visit my blood pressure was high, for me, and they were acting weird the whole time I was in the doctor's office. They did some bloodwork and sent me on my way; however, their weird silent behavior was more than this hormonal lady could take. Now I really hadn't had very many hormonal moments during this pregnancy, but this day they got me worked up. I called Jared crying and told him what was going on. He ended up getting worked up himself and left work to come home and take care of me. He has been so good to me during this pregnancy and I really couldn't have asked for better! Wednesday Jared was afraid to go to work because he didn't want to be two hours away in case I went into labor. We spent the day nesting and shopping for last minute baby supplies. Thursday the doctor had me come back in to check my blood pressure. Jared and I thought they might go ahead and admit us so we had our packed bags in the car just in case. She told us he would be here any day now. When we realized they were going to send us back home, we jokingly asked if they would induce because we were so excited to meet our sweet baby boy! She said she would next week if we wanted to and then she left the room. I realized she didn't tell us when to come back for our next visit so I ran out into the hall to catch her and ask. She laughed and said you don't need an appointment because you'll be back by this weekend to have him! She said we could make an appointment for Monday, but she would be seeing us before then. This increased our excitement and we were both a little speechless! We made that Monday appointment and I waddled out of the office! My family from PA, OH, and GA were in town and we secretly hoped Enoch would make his arrival so they could all meet him, otherwise Enoch may be closer to 1 yrs. old before some of them would meet him, or older. My grandma's birthday was the following Monday and we also hoped for that day as well. Enoch is the 14th great grandchild and we thought it would be special. Anyhow, Jared decided to not go to work again so we ate Mexican and ran more errands. That evening we were to eat dinner at my parents with our family from out of town. We had a good time! We also got to open gifts for Enoch sent by my grandma from her and some of my aunts up north. Without being gross, we had a sign that labor could be in a day or so. Now all week I apparently had been having contractions, but since I could stand them (I have a high tolerance for pain) I didn't realize that was what they were. How am I supposed to know? :) Anyhow, Jared had decided he would have to go back to work on Friday so he wouldn't use all of his days before the baby got here. He didn't want to, but he needed to. That night I had to sleep on the couch because of the pain and discomfort. Jared put the baby monitor on me and went to bed in our room (I insisted). I woke up very often through the night in pain, but would go back to sleep. Jared said he woke up and checked on me through the monitor and noticed that I was asleep with a pained look on my face and my hand on my forehead! At 2:36 am I woke up to a gush! My eyes popped open and I was thinking I think this is my water breaking but if it happens again it's the real deal and not in my head. Afterall, we were praying this would happen before Jared got up for work at 4:15 am! Immediately there was another gush! I hopped up from that couch faster than I had in months! One, I was excited, and two, I didn't want to get the couch messy! I started yelling and laughing, calling to Jared telling him, "It's time! My water broke! This is the real! Jared! Jared!" He came running out of the bedroom and found me in the bathroom. I told him my water broke and he became excited! We were both so giddy, but not really flustered like you might would think. I told him to get in the shower and he tried to argue. I told him he didn't know when we would get another one so we better take one now! He got in the shower and I called the doctor. Then I called my parents, Pam, Jared's parents, and my brother! Pam acted the craziest, as she became completely flustered! It was funny! Jared helped me into the shower and I quickly bathed. He helped me get dressed, packed a few things in the car, most we had been leaving in there, and then we headed to the hospital! Jared drove extra cautiously! We even saw two deer near our house which made him want to drive even more cautiously! We got to the hospital around 3:40 am, walked up to the birthing suites and checked in. They put us in a triage room to make sure we were really in labor! I told the nurse she could tell by looking at my pants! She laughed, but still had to perform the routine tests. Of course we really were in labor so they wheeled me to a room. Next, we were being prepped for delivery. Our family began arriving and we got to see them for a few minutes before I got my epidural.
Me on cloud 9!

Me and mama

Me and daddy

Me and my sister, Pam

Me and my brother, Joseph

Me and Jared's parents

Me & Aunt Kendra

Me & my cousin Erica

Me & my cousin Denni Jo

Me & my Grandma

Me & Jared, our last photo as a family of two

Halloween 2010

2010-12-08T12:56:00.012-06:00

Several of our friends met at Publix for a little trick-or-treating and games. Can I just say that Publix is the best store, hands down? Cause it is!

Xander as Iron Man 2

Our church held their annual Trick-or-Trunk and as usual, we all had a good time!

Jaiden, the most adorable butterfly you've ever seen!

Emma Grace, the sweet angel!

Brianna, a pink lady!

Marley, a gothic fairy

The McCuiston clan

Xander is Iron Man... He and the mask are one!

Pumpkin Patch 2010

2010-12-07T15:47:00.011-06:00

Back in October we spent the day at the Glenn family reunion and then went over to The Great Pumpkin Patch! We had a wonderful day spent with family!

Joseph and I on the hayride back from the pumpkin patch

Jared and I on the hayride

Daddy and I at the hay maze

Jared and Joseph seeing which is bigger, the pumpkins or Enoch!

Me at 34 weeks

Me and Jared

Jared and I

The whole family!

Shutterfly Special

2010-12-02T17:54:00.007-06:00

Shutterfly is having an awesome holiday promotion: 50 FREE cards just for blogging about it. You have a blog? You can get 50 free cards too! (Yes, you do have to pay tax and shipping, but STILL...that is a great deal!) If you are buying photo cards anyway, this will save you a whole lot of $$. If you would like to participate, follow this link for instructions.
I have never done photo Christmas cards before and actually haven't done regular Christmas cards in a long time, but this year I have my sweet baby boy to show off! I read of this Shutterfly promotion on several friends' blogs and thought it the perfect way to do our family Christmas photo cards this year.
This year we plan to have a picture or two on our Christmas photo card. I can't decide because there are several cute ones to choose from. Follow the link below to see all the choices!
http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-photo-cards

Since Enoch was born only three weeks ago, we used Shutterfly to have his birth announcements made. We were very pleased with how they turned out! For birth announcement choices (there are many which makes for a difficult decision) follow the link below!
http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/birth-announcements
For Enoch's first birthday we plan on using the birthday photo cards as invitations. I can't decide which one to use! He only three weeks old and I honestly don't want to think that far ahead yet! But if you are interested, follow the link below! You won't be disappointed!
http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/party-cards-stationery

Sanders Family Double Baby Shower

2010-10-22T23:37:00.008-05:00

We were blessed yet again with another baby shower! It was a double shower! Jared's cousins, Matt and Melissa, adopted a baby boy, Cooper, who was born in early August and we got to share their blessing with ours. Once again, everyone was extremely generous! We are so lucky and Enoch is already so loved by many!

Baby Cooper!

Jared's Aunt Ann borrowed a bouncy house for the kids to play on! Xander and Pam had some fun!

This is Joseph and I before church Sunday morning. I am 34 weeks at this time!

HXR C. of C. Baby Shower

2010-10-22T23:15:00.006-05:00

We were blessed to be given a baby shower at the church Jared grew up at! Our friends there were also generous! The ladies did a wonderful job and we had a good time visiting with our friends and family there!

We got lots of sweet gifts, but to me, the most special was this sock monkey that my daddy made Enoch! He really sewed and made it by himself! And yes, I cried when I opened the gift that read, "Made especially for Enoch by his Pop Glenn!"

Sylvan Springs C. of C. Baby Shower

2010-09-17T11:27:00.007-05:00

This past Sunday, we had our first baby shower! Jared and I were both so excited! We were not only anticipating all the sweet things generously given to us, but also all the wonderful friends and family we were to see and visit with! The fellowship hall was decorated beautifully by the best friends and family members we could ever ask for! They went with a Noah's Ark theme and in the words of Hannah, "It was the cutest baby shower ever!" I have to agree with my lil best friend!

We were blessed with many sweet gifts for Enoch!

We had friends and family come to see us from all over and that just meant the world to us!

Still growing strong!

2010-09-10T11:23:00.003-05:00

Enoch is growing big and kicking strong! We are excited for his arrival! Can't wait to hold our baby boy!

Week 28

Week 29

Enoch grows and grows!

2010-08-25T16:40:00.007-05:00

Week 20

Week 21

Week 23

Week 27

Riding in style!

2010-08-25T16:28:00.003-05:00

Check out what Jared got for Father's Day! He got it a little late because they are not making these anymore. Luckily Jennifer saw this in a little shop in Molton and lucky for me, my parents were going that way! So, I ordered it and they picked it up for me! Dad wanted this out of his car as soon as possible!

ICYC 2010

2010-08-24T17:12:00.009-05:00

We didn't get to go to camp this year because we were in Ohio for our family reunion, but I did visit a couple of days. This year Xander got to go and Chris took him! Chris did so well with Xander, but I think Xander really wore him out! Xander had a blast being at camp and still talks about it often! He asked Jared and I, "Why didn't ya'll come to camp? It was so fun and ya'll missed it!" I hope he always loves going to camp! Thanks to Kim and Paul for sending me picture texts of Xan-Man at camp!
Xander and Levi in their cabin!

Xander and Levi sweeping the pavillion!

Jojo sent Xander a letter so he'd have to sing for it, but Xander fell asleep during worship and missed mail call afterwards so he escaped the singing! Jojo wrote the letter on the airplane on Spiderman paper, but he didn't have an envelope so he put it in a barf bag from the plane!

My cousin, Marley went to ICYC as well! I am so glad she did!

Josh and Chris played baseball with some of the little kids Thursday night during sports time. I watched long enough to get pictures and then a mosquito thought I was tasty and bit me all over, so I went elsewhere!

I thought Xander's cabin's skit was the best, but Chris said I was being biased, and he was their couselor. They told jokes and it was hilarious! I loved watching their faces as they were telling their jokes! It was priceless!

Marley's cabin sang a song to the tune of Hannah Montannah's song, "Best of Both Worlds" called "The Best of God's World." It was a really cute song and Marley did a great job with it!

Keri's cabin sang and acted out a Taylor Swift song. It was cute too! I tried real hard to get a pic of TP doing her front flip, but never could capture it.

It's a BOY!!!

2010-07-24T17:33:00.003-05:00

I know, everyone knows that by now, but what can I say? I'm behind! Anyhow, we our ultrasound at 19 weeks. We had several attendees to this spectacular event! Don't laugh, he is the first grandbaby on both sides and has been a long time prayed for so we may have gone overboard but we don't care! :) Jared, of course, was there, front and center, probably making it hrad for others to see the monitor hehehe, Mama (with my dad on speaker phone since he had to work), Pam (with Joseph since he was at work all the way in Montgomery, but that didn't keep him from talking the whole time, hollering, "What is it? Is it a girl? What's taking so long? hehehe, Jared's mom and dad, and his brother, Andy. The ultrasound tech was toruring us not saying anything, but FINALLY rolled over his rump and said, "So what do you think it is?" Jared was speechless, jaw dropped, he just knew it was a girl (as did Pam and many others) and said, "It's a boy!" I was laughing and crying as were most, and Joseph was bragging that he knew it was a boy the whole time (he was right and so was I!) We found out he was measuring a week ahead and after all it took him to get here, we are 100% sure the due date is right and that he is just a big boy! Joseph said, "I knew it was a boy, a big Sanders boy!" After the doctor visit, we left and went straight to Baies R Us! Jared's parents bought the baby an Atlanta Braves baseball suit and an Atlanta Braves hooded jacket! We had fun looking at all the boy stuff!

Meet Enoch Jared Sanders!

Ken Woodmancy Family Reunion 2010

2010-07-23T16:58:00.005-05:00

Every other year my mama's side of the family has a family reunion. We usually have it in Ohio at my Aunt Deb and Uncle David's house because they have room for everybody, and when I say everybody I mean there were 41 people staying in one house at one time! It's the best! If you've ever read the children's book, The Relative's Came, then you get an idea of what it's like! We come from all over, AL, GA, FL, TN, MA, PA, DE, WV, and MD! I didn't take any pictures except for the last day, so I will post them and then when Pam gives me hers, I'll post them later, along with my Week 18 pregnancy photo. Until then, enjoy these pictures!
These are the people who were left on Monday. Some left Sunday.

Fun with Devin! I was trying to get a good picture of our comedian cousin, Devin, but he wouldn't smile, so Joseph tackled him trying to get him to smile for the camera! I think Jared and Joseph's favorite part of the family reunion is messing with Devin, and they are good at it! We love our Devy Wevy!

VBS 2010

2010-07-16T15:35:00.009-05:00

This year we had another fun and exciting VBS! Our theme was "Dare to be a Daniel!" Jared and I led a room. Our Bible lesson was Daniel and the Lion's Den. We had several helpers this year! Thanks to Brian, Mary Sue, Shirley, and Nena! We acted the story out each night.
Check out the cute lion marshmellow pops that Mrs. Nena made each night! She is so talented!

Brian as King Darius

Mary Sue as Daniel

Jared as the Governor

I played the part as the Satrap and Shirley was the angel that shut the lions' mouths, but I never did get pictures of us.
The kids made lion masks, played a Bible game, and had worksheets/coloring sheets if time permitted! We had a really good time!

On one night, Jared played the "Lion Whisperer," Ned's friend he brought to VBS!

Xander Learns to Skate

2010-07-16T14:50:00.004-05:00

The Saturday after school got out, some of my 2nd grade coworkers had a skating party for their end-of-the-year party. They invited Xander and I to come skate. We only got to skate for awhile because someone...Xander... stayed up too late and wouldn't wake up. :) There were some very sweet boys and girls who helped Xander skate since I couldn't. Xander would only hold the boys' hands,'cuz girls are gross, of course! He had a good time,made some friends, and ate pizza and cake. He wants to go again!

Lad-to-Leaders 2010

2010-07-16T13:52:00.002-05:00

We had a wonderfully, uplifting time at the L/L Convention! I am so proud of our kids and all they accomplish! My favorite moment was when Xander drew the VERY LAST number,27, for song leading! He had planned to lead Jesus Loves the Little Children, but after several boys had led it, I guess he spontaneously decided to led some thing else! He got up and said, "I will be singing In Heavenly Armour." We were speechless and began laughing hysterically! I laughed so hard I was crying, I was proud and shocked! Pam didn't even know what song he was talking about! Then he began singing, "In heavenly armour we enter the land, the battle belongs to the Lord..." He didn't know the next line so he kind of hummed through it and then moved on to the chorus that he knew! Afterwards, he said people already led his song so he sang another one. Then he looked at Jared and said, "I noticed that Pam wasn't singing with me. Why?" My other favorite moment was when Levi got up and led his song. Levi has always been a little timid about leading a song without having his dad stand up there with him. Before we left for the convention I spent weeks trying to talk Levi into leading a song at L/L. I promised Hannah, Levi, and Xander that I would take them out for ice cream if they led a song at the convention. Even Hannah, believe it or not, was a little shy about leading a song, too. Anyhow, back to Levi...They called out a number that was a few numbers ahead of Levi's, but sounding close (I can't remember the numbers) and Levi jumped up, said God is So Good, and then started right in singing! We were all laughing, but I was proud because he overcomed his fear and led his song in front of a HUGE crowd, who by the way, did a good job of following along with Levi eventhough he took his turn a little early! I cried tears of joy over that boy! Now he leads singing all by himself at church! I missed Hannah leading singing due to the fact that Xander was the last singer in a big group, but I heard she did fantastic! We went out to Ben and Jerry's to celebrate at the Opryland Hotel! I love my Bible Class kids and am so proud of them! This year I am working on Bayley! I hope we have a convention despite the flood damage done to the hotel, but I hear it doesn't look good! I'm sure we will do something though!

Xander on Easter morning! The Easter bunny knew he spent the night in our room and left his basket there!

Easter Egg Hunt

2010-07-16T13:14:00.004-05:00

The weekend before Easter, I had an easter Egg Hunt at my house for the little kids at church. We had such a good time, despite me being so tired (first trimester.) We had corndogs, chips, candy, and Jennifer made the cutest cupcakes that looked like eggs hiding in grass. Jared, Pam, and I hid the eggs all over our backyard. The kids had a great time hunting and playing and the adults had a good time fellowshipping, well into the evening on the porch!

16 Weeks!

2010-06-23T11:11:00.004-05:00

Week 16 was extremely busy for us! It was also the first day of VBS! I love VBS! Now, VBS will be another post later so I wont go into the details of it now.
We spent the end of week 16 and the beginning of week 17 in Mobile for a friend's wedding. It was beautiful and so nice to see good friends! We ended week 17 in Ohio! We went to spend the weekend with family for our family reunion! Again, another post for later!

14 Weeks!

2010-06-10T13:10:00.005-05:00

Ok, so I know it's been a long time since my last post, so please forgive! The end of the school year is always a busy time for me, especially this year. I resigned as a teacher, and now, as Paul nicely put it, I've received a promotion! I will be a stay-at-home mom!
This is me and Baby at 14 weeks!

This was a week of emotions for me. It was my last week as a teacher! I love my 2nd grade team and will miss them dearly! Please excuse the not-so-together look I am sporting! I spent the day packing up my classroom and bringing my personal things home.

Jared picked this cute shirt out. I showed it to him, jokingly, and he just thought it was so cute. He asked me to try it on and so I did. He bought it! I thought he was so adorable! I think I have the best, most understanding, most loving husband ever! Everytime I walk into a room, Jared just lights up! He loves the baby belly I have and laughs when he hugs me and the belly hits him first! He is going to be a wonderful father!
Pam turned 29 on May 27. We celebrated her birthday the next day. We grilled out steak, chicken, squash, and zuchinni. We also had baked potatoes and starwberry shortcake. It was all so delicious!
We celebrated Memorial Day (and the start of week 15) at Oak Mountain with my dad's family, as well as, Jared's parents and Granny. It was good to see all the cousins and all. They hadn't seen me since I grew a baby belly! That afternoon, we had a doctor's appointment. We got to hera the baby's heartbeat for the first time! It was so sweet! The doctor declared everything "Perfect!" The heartbeat was around 156. Jared's mom and dad joined us at this appointment and so they got to hear the perfect heartbeat, too!
The next day was my official last day of school, but more importantly, Jared and my
8th wedding anniversary! He gave me a dozen roses in the colors from our wedding! Yes, he remembered that and that is why he picked that bouquet!

2010-05-03T20:09:00.001-05:00

11 Weeks!

2010-05-03T18:24:00.002-05:00

Yesterday marked week 11 in our pregnancy! Jared and I both got to hear the heartbeat this afternoon for the first time! Jared barely made it to the doctor's office in time. The nurse found it and we listened for a minute waiting on Jared. Then she stopped and Jared walked right in so she found it again. It took a minute because in that short time the baby moved from the spot it was just in. I'm so glad the nurse was kind enough to find it again so Jared could hear it. She said the heartbeat was in the 170's. Jared asked her did that mean boy or girl? She said she couldn't really say, but if you just went off that, it meant girl. Jared was happy because he thinks we are having a girl and that would make him right. :) I think boy and the Chinese chart said 83% boy which would make me right! My principal and a couple of coworkers pulled the Chinese chart up and had me answer those questions. It was slightly akward, but fun!
In other news, I still have morning sickness everyday, most of the day. I suck preggie drops and wear a sea band. I threw up for the first time last Tuesday morning and then again this morning. I have felt pretty bad all day today, but I am not complaining.
Here is my first belly pic. Now me let me preface by saying that I am not naive to think that part of that belly was me before I was pregnant; however, I never had that bump above my belly button and my belly never poked out like that nor was it rounded. I guess it really started showing at the end of week 10, but I needed Jared to confirm it for me officially. So...my first shot.

9 Weeks

2010-04-20T19:48:00.004-05:00

This is our baby at 6 weeks! If you look inside the "black hole" you will see a small bean shaped embryo, Baby Sanders! We got to see the tiny heartbeat! I cannot tell you how cute Jared was showing this picture to everyone he saw! This picture is now proudly displayed in the cute frame his parents gave us on our entertainment center!
I have been nauseus almost since the beginning, but starting Easter morning, it went to a whole new level! I am extremely thankful that I have avoided vomitting so far, but have come very close several times. My morning sickness comes in waves all throughout the day. I wake up feeling awful and usually dry heave all the way to school and a little once I get there. I feel like I have to have a light snack frequently to keep the nausea at bay. It comes back towards the end of my work day, around three and hangs with me until I go to bed. I am not complaining as it is very much worth it and I am well taken care of! I've been tring the sea bands and I guess they work sometimes, so I use them when I'm real bad. In the beginning of this pregnancy, I seem to have craved salty foods which is odd for me because I generally love my chocolate. Now I crave nothing! I am shocked that my favorite drink for my entire life, water, sometimes is gross to me now! It's the only thing I drink so I'm really hoping that aversion is temperary!
I had my first hormonal crying fit this past Saturday, and I do admit, it's funny! I am not normally a crier which makes it even more funny to me. I woke up feeling the morning sickness strongly. I stayed in bed hoping it would ease, and watched some tv. After a while, I decided to get a Nutra Grain bar to see if that helped. I ate it in bed (btw I hate eatting in bed.) I finally got up and got straight in the shower. I dry heaved some. I got out and was trying to get ready because mama would be calling soon to see if I was ready to go to the store with her. Jared had left that morning for the Alabama A-Day game with Casey and James. Mama called and I weakly told her I was struggling and moving slow, but half ready. She said she would wait until I was ready and for me to lay down and have some crackers and asked if I needed anything. AT that point the hormones kicked in and I asked in a quivering voice if she would bring me some food. She didn't quite understand me so once I repeated it I began to cry and beg for some food that tasted good and that we had none and that I hated going in the kitchen (yeah, smells really get to me.) Then I preceded to tell her I was crying (as if she didn't know) and then told her I didn't know why I was crying. She chuckled and said it's just the pregnancy and that she would be right over with some food. I hung up and cried hard for a good five minutes and then told myself I was a big girl with a high tolerance for pain and that I can do it! I got dressed. My mama got here with a breakfast pizza (from the gas station that makes good pizza-don't laugh til you've tried it), 2bagelfuls, and a cappucino. Don't think I'm overeatting because I am not. I only ate the slice of pizza and the cappucino! I have the best mama! She always takes care of me and I love her for it! We went to the store and then stopped by Deermans to get some lunch. Then she brought me home where I enjoyed my lunch! Thanks mama!
Baby Sanders is officially a fetus this week and is the size of a green olive!

BIG News!!!

2010-03-19T11:23:00.002-05:00

Well, as most everyone knows by now...Jared and I are having a BABY!!!! We are so excited to announce this! We are truly still in shock and if I didn't feel almost constant pressure on my left side, I wouldn't believe it! Jared wants to wrap me in bubble wrap! He is going into major overprotective mode, but I'm ok with that! When you wait for 6 years for this moment, I guess you can never be too cautious; however, bubble wrap is overbored! I mean, can you imagine what my students would say? Or, those frequent bathroom stops, how akward! Anyhow, if it's not him, then it's Pam and Joseph. We met Joseph at the Bass Pro Shop in Prattville Wednesday because that is his day off and Mama, Pam, Xander, and I are all on spring break. When I ordered shrimp, you should have seen Pam and Joseph's head spin! "You can't have shrimp!" "You are not eatting that when it comes out!" "You can have half my potatoes." "You can have half my chicken." So, I snuck 2 pieces and ate my potato chips and some of Pam's chicken. Mama gave me half her salad. After lunch, Chad mentioned getting Starbucks and Pam said, not in front of Emily! Seriously, I don't know what to eat! Help! That night, when we got home, after church, Dad was not happy about the shrimp thing either! Even after Katie told him it would be ok, just not often, he was still adamant about mercury being linked to autism and such. They are all cracking me up! I honestly don't mind, though, because I want to do everything safe and do my best to eat right. I haven't had much of an appetite this week, but it could be because I'm not doing that much and I am in such shock, I kind of walk around like a zombie and forget to eat! I'm sure it will get better when I am back to work next week, when I am more active!
On to some news on how and when we found out we were expecting.
Wait...I really don't know where to start. I mean, we started this journey 6 years ago in 2004. I guess I will start with now. I knew I could take a pregnancy test on Monday, March 15, 2010. All weekend, I was somewhat emotional and a little grouchy which I only know as PMS. Realizing that I had all the symptoms of Aunt Flo, I became saddened knowing that another month had gone and I still was not pregnant. Then I began deciding, because women that have been through what I have, must DECIDE that they are happy and just deal with what comes next. Most women dealing with infertility usually have depression as a result and I was determined that that would not be me. I have a wonderful family, an amazing husband, faith in God, and a spectacular life! I am gonna be fine! It never took away the pain and disappointment, but it always got me through it, plus MUCH prayer! Anyhow, I began preparing myself for the worst. I woke up Monday and thought, "I will just take a test now and deal with the outcome. I'll be over it by the end of the day (maybe) and I will be here at my house by myself with nowhere to go, so I won't have to put on a happy face." So, I grabbed a test and took it. I walked out of the bathroom and came right back in (now usually it takes the full 3 mins. to give a result, which has always been a 'not preganant' result.) I look down with a beating heart, not expecting for it to be done yet and saw, "Pregnant." On a side note, I only buy the extremely expensive tests, not because they are better, they're not. I buy the expensive ones because mentally it's better for me. I was sick and tired of trying to decided if the pink line was dark enough! Infertility messes with your mind and common sense and suddenly you think you're pregnant when you know you're not because maybe if you pray over it enough, will it to be positive, then maybe it is a positive pregnancy test. Ok, so back to me anxiously (anxious, another infertility symptom, you wanna know if you're pregnant or not, but you don't want to face another negative result, so you get so worked up your shaking and almost sick, heart beating out of your chest...)looking down at the test and it was done and read 'pregnant.' I began shacking more and pacing around the room in a circle breathing heavily. Then I immediately had to call Jared, which I knew he wouldn't be able to answer. Then I called him right back again and still no answer, which I knew he wouldn't be able to and I probably officailly succeeded in scaring him. Then I told myself to calm down and think. I wanted to make telling Jared special. I wanted him with me when he found out and I didn't want him driving like a maniac for the 2 hour ride home. So, I came up with an excuse and began texting him that I was sorry I called when I knew he couldn't answer and all I wanted was to find out if he would make it for dinner so I could unthaw the chicken. Lame, I know, but if I had to say it at that moment, he would know something was up and I really wanted to surprise him! He ended up calling me back thinking something was wrong and I gave him the whole chicken excuse in my best nonchalant voice I could muster. He wasn't convinced completely, but knew I had the whole 'time to take a pregnancy test' thing looming over my head, so he chalked it up to that. Whew! Now I went back to pacing the floors in dazed like trance! I kept telling myself to get it together! I decided to eat breakfast so I could take another test and then call the doctor. I did, it was still positive (still shocked), so I called the doctor and left a message. Then I left in search of the perfect gift for Jared. I had always wanted to get this Alabama umbrella stroller that I had seen once and use it to tell Jared that he was going to be a daddy. Unfortunately, that was years ago and I hadn't seen them in a while, but I was determined to find one! I set out in search of one, drove ALL over Birmingham (which probably was smart in my condition) and never did find one. I did find out the company that makes them is probably going to stop and so stores will not have one. I will have to search the internet for one. I had to come up with a plan B. I bought a baby t-shirt that says, "My First Alabama t-shirt" and bought it. The doc called me back and told me to stop wasting my money on tests and believe it! They told me to come first thing the next morning for bloodwork to confirm it. A few hours later, Jared was on his way home and I was ready to tell him! He called and told me that he was 15 mins. from the house and that is when the wildly beating heart came back and my brain left me again! He walked in the door and I got up, grabbed the bag with the shirt in it (I had the 2 tests in my pocket to whip out and show him.) I went to the door and told him I bought him something today. He told me I shouldn't have, but instead of opening it, he hugged me (sweet-yes, but my heart was about to jump out and tell him for me!) I asked Jared if he was ever going to open his gift and he said in a minute, he just wanted to hug me some more. Incredibly sweet, but seriously? Then, as he was holding me he said, "Is that my heart beating so fast?" Uh-oh my heart is gonna tell the news before I can. I told him to just open his present and then I reached in my pockets, pulled out the tests, and started waving them in his face and crying (I finally cried, well except for that quick moment when I got in the shower after I took the test and it just hit me that I could be pregnant.) He didn't even have the shirt out of the bag! he was confused and stunned and I just said, "Jared, it worked!" We were laughing and crying and not believing it! We are so happy! We are thankful that God has blessed us with even more than we already have! Please pray that everything goes smoothly with this pregnancy!

Ichiban with friends!

2010-03-18T17:54:00.005-05:00

A few Saturdays back, Xander spent the night we Jared and I. Saturday afternoon I picked up Xander and took him to visit Addi for a while. Next, we met Katie, Hannah, Jaiden, and Pam at the PG park. We played there for several hours. Then we met Daddy, Mama, Daddy, Josh, and Casey at Ichiban's. We had been promising to take Xander to a Japanese steakhouse and he was so excited. He and Hannah had so much fun laughing and watching the fire. The waiter gave Xander the royal treatment! He let Xander flip an egg in the air, catch a shrimp tail in his mouth, and made jokes about him the whole night. He asked Hannah to flip an egg, but she wouldn't. He did have Josh and Casey have an egg toss up because Josh was wearing an Auburn hat and Casey and Alabama one! We spent a good night with good friends!

Snow!

2010-03-18T17:13:00.006-05:00

Here in Alabama, we saw our fair share of snow this winter! I love snow and I love the cold weather! Jared and I went out for a walk in our yard, made a snow angel, and Jared threw some snowballs at Ms. C.'s yard...I bet she watched and had few choice words! HE!HE!

Let me tell you 'bout my best friend..

2010-03-18T16:53:00.004-05:00

She's a little blue-eyed blonde...with the best personality you could ever imagine!
Here are some things I love about her...
1. She yells to me from far off because she is so excited to see me!
2. She announces my arrival to any event as if everyone is as happy to see me as she is!
3. She calls me her best friend in the best southern accent!
4. She hugs me so tight I know she loves me!
5. She's bossy, like me!
6. She always tells me I am pretty, my clothes are pretty, and my jewelry, even if I'm not actually looking my best!
7. She's beautiful!
8. She makes me laugh A LOT!
9. She thinks it's cool to come to my house...and fun! (Look below for pictures.)
10. She shares with me (even if she does put her mouth on it a little before she gives me my half if it's food.)
Look at that face! You can just glance at her and know she is special!
These are pics taken when she came over to play to give her mommy a break since her mommy was not feeling very well.

ICE! A Charlie Brown Christmas!

2010-03-18T12:05:00.007-05:00

As one of my Christmas presents, Jared surprised me with tickets to ICE! I had been wanting to go, but it just gets so busy at Christmas time. I have always been a Charlie Brown fan. I have the BEST husband in the world! We drove up Friday, January 1, to Nashville and spent the night with our good friends, Randy and Tara Nel M. We had fun playing Quelf with Randy and Tara Nel, enjoyed a good meal and good company and went to bed. We woke up Saturday morning (to snow!) and went to Opryland to see ICE! It is so cold for the frozen ice stautues that are set up as scenes from A Charlie Brown Christmas to stay solid. They said the average temp is -8 degrees or less! They give you this giant blue coat to wear over your own coat. It was so pretty! I even stood in line, where I thought my feet were being frost bitten because the steps had a thin little carpet over the ice steps, to ride the giant ice slide. Jared wanted to take my picture so he stayed at the end of the slide waiting for me. When it was his turn, he was too cold and said his khakis were too thin to slide on ice, so we moved to the next room. Next time, we will now to layer more and I will wear my fur lined boots! Thanks Jared! I love you!

* For some reason the picture of me on the slide will not publish to blogger! Oh well! You'll just have to trust me on how cool it was!
Afterwards, Jared and I walked over to the Opry Mills Mall and had lunch at the Shark Reef Cafe. It was so delicious! It was so neat to watch the sharks swim around the tank in the middle of the restaurant as you ate!

Exposure Youth Camp

2010-03-18T11:41:00.003-05:00

Jared and I have wanted to attend EYC for years with our youth group and this year it worked out that we could! We were so excited! Sylvan Springs has some of the sweetest, fun-loving teenagers you will meet! Plus, they don't mind if us "young at hearts" hang with them every once in a while! It lasted from Dec. 27-30, 2009. We left on the church bus as soon as church was over Sunday morning. Jared roomed with all the guys that went and Pam and I roomed with the younger girls, Keri and TP! We had such fun with those girls! They are so funny! The only pictures I took were from Monday night when we went to a Huntsville Havocs hockey game! I was too busy enjoying myself! In one pic I have my Bible with me. I thought it was funny we went straight from evening worship to a hockey game so our Bibles went too! Kind of ironic that we all had Bibles and others who were not with EYC had adult beverages.
I hope we get to go again because you will definitley, grow and be encouraged as a Christian!

Christmas Caroling at the Nursing Home

2010-02-17T17:57:00.005-06:00

On Monday, December 21, several people from church went Christmas caroling over at the nursing home. Pam and I had Bri, Marley, Nolan, & Chandler spending the night, so they all got to go, too. The people of Cherry Hill seemed to love it as well as those of us who went!

Other fun & exciting events:
Thursday, Dec. 24: Christmas Eve! My family met Chad's (Pam's boyfriend) family at the movie theatre where we watched "A Christmas Carol." Afterwards we all went to dinner at Logan's.
Friday, Dec. 25: Christmas! We all woke up very early and spent the morning at my parent's house with my family. Then before lunch, Jared & I left and drove to Brundidge to spend the rest of Christmas with his family! We played games all day at both home and had a wonderful time at the most wonderful time of year! Jared & I came back home Saturday evening to pack for Exposure Youth Camp!

Jared's 30th Surprise Bday Party

2010-02-15T18:43:00.005-06:00

On December 12, 2009, I, with the help of our families, threw Jared a surprise birthday party! It was fun to get together, but real hard to keep a secret! I did, though! In fact, Jared had been doing so much overtime at work and had spent several nights with Joseph in Montgomery, that I almost fooled him! He figured it out on the way to the party! That's ok because we had a good time! I decorated with Alabama everything and a little 30th birthday stuff including a balloon with his name on it. Mama & Daddy made all different types of hot wings (his fav), mama made 3 bread puddings, Pam made over 200 cookies, Jared's mom made pigs-in-a-blanket and rotel and a veggie tray, and Jenny made hot ham & cheese sandwiches. I tried real hard to make cookies and brownies with this silicone Alabama A pan but that thing about beat me! Mama & Daddy got Jared 30 presents and so Jared played this game with all the kids. He had them guess what was in each package. It got rowdy! I even made Jared a video that we watched at the party. We had so many friends and family there which made it special! We really had a good time and were so thankful for everyone who came to help celebrate!

Other things that went on this week that I didn't get pictures of, but want to remember...
Sunday, Dec. 13: Aunt Enola's 90th birthday party and the Christmas Open House at the Courington's.
Saturday, Dec. 19: Jared's actual birthday (he had to work so he could be off for his party which I had to come up with an excuse as to why he couldn't work the previous Sat.)
We also had Christmas with my dad's side of the family that evening. We did something different this year. Instead of drawing names and buying gifts, we exchanged baked goodies. We made enough for every family, so then everyone got to take home a basket (made by mama)of goodies! We had cookies, hot cocoa kits, fudge, chocolate candy, soup kits, peanut brittle, and chocolate suckers. I really enjoyed that idea. We still got all the kids a gift and everyone was so nice to include Xander (he was supposed to come because he needed to stay the weekend with us, but he ended up getting sick.)
Wait! I have two pics from my phone of Marley & Chandler at Christmas!

Sunday, Dec. 20: Christmas dinner and dirty Santa exchange at our church.

PG Christmas Parade

2010-02-13T11:35:00.004-06:00

On Saturday, December 5, 2009, two fun events happened!
One it snowed...in Alabama!

This is the scene we admired on the way to the Christmas parade!

Xander spent the night with us the night before so he could come to the parade, too!
Here's a picture of Xander at the parade. I had a really sweet one of all the kids from church who were there, but I accidentally erased it when I was erasing pics off my camera! Ugh! Oh well! Jennifer invited us over for pancakes and hot cocoa after the parade. This was a very sweet gesture considering she was very pregnant and had been having contractions (too early). She did have some awesome help and the food was great, but the fellowship was even better!

Well, we stayed too long at the McCuiston's so we it left little time for us to get our outside Christmas decorations up and get Xander home before the BIG game! Alabama won the SEC Championship, but the Sanders's Christmas decor never got all the way up! Oh well...we will try again next year!
Other exciting things we did this week, but had no pics for...
Sunday, Dec. 6: Our church held a Progressive Lunch and traveled from house to house by way of church bus to eat each tasty part of our lunch!
We started out for appetizers at Susan and David C.'s (Phyllis & Kent helped), then here at our house for salad (with Mom & Dad, and Pam helping), next stop at Billy & Mary C.'s for chicken fingers, the main course (with James & Amy C. helping), then over to Mark & Mia W.'s for soup ( with Ms. Jackson & Ms. Wylie helping), and last stop...desert at Paul & Kim K's! I really had a wonderful time and I hope all that were involved did as well! I want to make this a fall tradition!
Friday, Dec. 11: Young adult Christmas Party at the McCuiston home! We had a very good time with A LOT of loopy laughter! I am so glad they decided to host the party! We are so blessed with such a good group of friends!

6th & under Kids' Christmas Party

2010-02-13T10:24:00.008-06:00

On Sunday, November 29, 2009, we had the the little kids' Christmas Party after the one o'clock service we had because it was a fifth Sunday. We just had snacks since we had just eatten at church for lunch. We played a game.

Then we built gingerbread houses. It was too cute! Jared said his and Xander's was the best trailer in the trailer park!

Last, we played some more games and won some more prizes! We have the most precious little kids!

Oh! We also opened presents!

Thanksgiving

2010-02-04T18:48:00.004-06:00

We had so many different family members from all sides come together this year for Thanksgiving! My mom's parents, my mom's sister and family, both of my dad's brothers and their families (minus Jeff and kids), my dad's aunt, my dad's cousin and her family, my immediate family, and Jared's brother and wife! I loved it! We had lunch at mama's. After lunch we played games and ate some more. Let me just say that I have the best family!

My dad and his two brothers and aunt
Lloyd, David, & Marty
Aunt Enola

Brianna & Erica
So pretty!

Turkey Toss '09

2010-02-02T19:46:00.009-06:00

Early, Tuesday morning, November 24, 2009, Xander and I got up and met Pam and Addi and Kim at Academy Sports where Rick & Bubba's annual Turkey Toss was held. Ok, so we really don't ever expect to win (Pam is our only hope), but we still go for the fun of it. This was Xander's first experience throwing a frozen turkey and I must admit that we won't ever with him either!

While there we saw a couple of clowns who made balloon animals and such.

We also spun a Hillshire Farms meat wheel. I won a football, Xander won a backpack, I think Pam won a football, too, and Kim won the best prize... some bratwursts! Go meat!

There were other games and face painting and meat to taste! The late night and early morning caught up with out little man and he was ready to go.

Pam and I went inside Academy Sports for a while and we began to play. Xander and Pam found a scooter and took it for a spin in the store. When it was my turn, Xander pushed me and I almost ran into a man who was perusing the aisle! I had to fall off so I wouldn't hit him. Pam and Xander thought it was funny!

We left Academy and went over to Target to do a little Christmas shopping.

I left Pam and Xander at Target and headed over to a friend's house where Tracey taught us how to sew. I decided ahead of time that I would sew Jaiden a dress because I thought it would be easier. How hard could a newborn dress be to make? It wasn't! I made Hannah a matching one, too! And... they are reversible! Go me! Come to think of it...I need to put the snaps on them so they can actually wear them...and then make Lila one. Oh! I also taught myself how to make the cutest tutu's, so...I need to finish those, too... Maybe when I finally get my blog up-to-date!
I met Jared, Pam, and Xander at Habanero's after sewing, for dinner. Then it was off to church (our church changed our midweek service to Tuesday because of Thanksgiving.)

Build-A Bear Workshop

2010-01-18T20:10:00.016-06:00

On Sunday, November 15, 2009, Mama, Jared, & I took Xander to Build-A-Bear Workshop. Mama was letting Xander build a bear for his birthday. It is always so cute to see a child build their first bear! Xander was no exception!
Xander picked out a rabbit to build.

He decided to put a giggle heart in his rabbit.

Time to stuff the rabbit!

Warming the rabbit's heart and everything else you are supposed to do to the heart!

Pushing the pedal to stuff the rabbit.

The rabbit is ready!

Washing & brushing his rabbit!

Time to dress the rabbit. We thought it was funny because we just knew he would choose one of the Star Wars or Batman or Spiderman outfits, but he chose a regular outfit. A t-shirt with a treasure map on it, blue jeans, and tennis shoes. That kid'll surprise you!

Time to name the rabbit! After careful deliberation, Xander came up with a name! (The couple beside us were laughing at Xander as he was throwing names out there!)

Meet Map Ears!

Jared took Xander over to the Lego store after he had finished building Map Ears. Jared said Xander walked in and the man who works there said, "Welcome to the Lego Store!" Xander replied, "We're not buying anything, we're just looking!" Jared said the man laughed. You never know what kids'll say!

Disney Pajama Party

2010-01-18T19:30:00.005-06:00

On Friday,November 20, 2009, I took Xander on a date (Shhhh! Don't tell him cause he'll freak!)to the Disney Store pajama party. I left straight from work and went to pick him up. He was wearing his cool new flannel Transformer pj's and he was so excited! When we got to the mall, we made a stop at JC Penney's restroom. While there, Xander finished before me, and then began looking for me... in the cracks of every stall! I heard laughter, but I kind of thought it was the teenagers just giggling. So, I come out and we wash our hands, and the girls were still laughing. Now I'm wondering what Xander did! Finally I turned to the girls and asked if he peeked in the stalls and they kept laughing and said that he did. I knew I had seen his little feet walk past me and then come back. The girls thought it was funny and said he didn't hurt anything. Xander said, "Emily, I was just trying to find you! How am I suppose to know if I don't look?" Always an adventure...
Well, we started toward Disney Store, but not before we passed Victoria's Secret. Really? Do we have to have the manequins wearing nothing in the windows but underclothes? Xander shouts, "EEWwww gross! It's that girl store! Gross! Their wearing panties!" Whew! We got past that one, but then we encountered the man who sells beauty products, who can barely speak English, who shouts at you as he beams toward you and tries to grab you! Well, that guy began shouting something I couldn't understand at me, but I kept walking. But wait...Xander stops and says, "Hey Emily! That guy is talking to you!" Grrr! Now he's talking to Xander and Xander has no idea what he is saying and why I am ignoring him. I grab him and make a beeline for the Disney Store. Whew! We finally made it! We looked around the store until the party began. First, they colored a Disney Christmas picture until more kids arrived.

Next, they played Disney Pictionary. I thought it was a little too hard for the kids, but the adults had fun!

Next, they listened to the store manager read them Prep & Landing. They were given a snack while they listened.

After the story, they played Disney Pictionary one more time, listened to some Disney Christmas music, and were given Prep & Landing cardboard cutouts, more like paper dolls, but I would never say that to Little Man.
After the pj party, we visited Build-A-Bear, but just looked and also the Lego store. Next, we met Jared at Olive Garden. A lady there was having her birthday celebration and the workers sang to her. Xander asked if they would sing to him since it was his birthday in a few days. So they sang to him and when they were through he wanted to know why they didn't sing it right. They had sung it in Italian! :) Then it was time to go home. We made up "There was an old lady who..." stories all the way home. It was a perfect evening!

Xander's 6th Birthday Party

2010-01-12T19:08:00.007-06:00

...was held at Pump It Up! It was on November 21, 2009. We had fun acting like kids at Little Man's party! Happy birthday to our favorite little buddy!

After Xander's party we had Jennifer's baby shower. Here is a couple of pictures of me holding Jaiden.

Halloween

2010-01-08T17:40:00.014-06:00

I know, way late, but I didn't have my camera on Halloween, so I had to wait til Pam could burn me hers. So here they are!

Jared went dressed as my dad!

Xander as the coolest Wolverine ever!

Hannah as a Good Witch

Chandler as the Black Power Ranger

Mama as an angel

My daddy!

Most of the people who dressed up at the church Trunk-or-Treat

Me as the Statue of Liberty and Rachel as Betty Crocker

Me, Marley as a witch, and Nolan as Snake Eyes from GI Joe

Jared, Joseph, & Dad

Dad and Pam (my dad's work shirt says "Peace, Love, & Hospice! hehe)

Me, mama, and Joseph

Cheese and Xander

2010-01-03T00:03:00.003-06:00

After the Pumpkin Patch, Rachel and Ben invited us all over for taco soup and pumkin carving. When I asked Rachel what could I bring, she told me cheese. Later she told me to bring Xander, too. So, I told her I would be there with cheese...and Xander!
I didn't get any pictures of us carving or the finished product. It's a shame because that was my first time to carve the whole pumpkin all by myself! We had a great time of fellowship with friends! Here are some cute pictures of Xander holding Jaiden for the first time! It was precious because he was so convinced that Jaiden really liked him and kept saying so! At one point Jaiden started getting a little fussy. Xander said,"That's ok baby, I'll take care of you!" He loves to hold her, but hates having to wash his hands before doing so!

Donna's Wedding

2010-01-02T23:06:00.025-06:00

On Thursday, November 5, 2009, mama and I flew to Ohio for my cousin, Donna's, wedding. My mom's youngest sister was the only sister not going, but thanks to Aunt Susie, Kendra would be surprising the whole family (minus Grandma, we had to tell her) by being at the airport when they arrived to pick mama and me up. Our plane was delayed by an hour, so Aunt Kendra arrived in Columbus, Ohio before us, though originally our flights were to arrive minutes apart. Mama and I got off the plane, found Aunt Kendra, retrieved our luggage and then headed to the sidewalk to patiently wait on Aunt Deb, Aunt Joyce, & Grandma. We ended up waiting forever cuz those crazy aunts of mine were having a field day at Hobby Lobby and then Aunt Deb got lost because she always does when she goes to the airport! Aunt Kendra would hide inside the airport door anytime we saw a van that looked liked Aunt Deb's, only to discover it was not them. BUT FINALLY, it was them! As Aunt Kendra hid inside, mama and I began loading our luggage in and Aunt Deb and Aunt Joyce fussed over arranging it all just so. Meanwhile I ran over to Grandma to hug her and assure her we did in fact, not lose her precious baby! So, as the aunts were fussing and arranging, Aunt Kendra snuck up behind them and shouted, "Hey! You got room for one more?" Aunt Joyce turned around and said, "I knew it!" Aunt Deb turned around and started bawling! Aunt Kendra told them that she got to come because mama bought her plane ticket, so then they all started hugging and crying and thanking mom, course Grandma had been crying because she knew about the surprise! It was so fun to surprise them! We all hopped into the van for more crying and then headed off to Applebee's for lunch, Aunt Joyce's treat! Thanks Aunt Joyce! More fussing, playfully, and more getting lost, but we did eventually make it, after an hour, to Applebee's. The waitress at Applebee's got a kick out of the plethora of accents, GA, MD, MA, AL, OH, PA, FL... Next stop was the JCPenney Outlet. I got several xmas gifts and other goodies. Then we headed back to Aunt Deb's because Aunt Jo was calling because she wanted us to hurry up and get there because she got there and we hadn't made it back yet (she's so demanding:)) First we had to make a quick stop at Starbucks, thanks again Aunt Joyce!!!! Meanwhile, Aunt Jo is calling again and we have to be quiet so she doesn't hear Aunt Kendra! We finally arrive to Aunt Deb's, get out, and go inside, leaving Aunt Kendra in the car for another surprise. We are all hugging, glad to see each other when the doorbell rings and in walks Aunt Kendra! Aunt Jo starts crying and hugging her, so happy to see her! We forgot we didn't even tell Uncle David, so he walks in and starts laughing because we got him, too!

Another surprise at 1 am when cousins Christy, Becky, and Gavin arrive!
Friday we wake up and go to Ohio Valley College (where Donna and Brian went to school and met) to help decorate for the reception, then over to their church to check on decor there for the wedding, and then back to Aunt Deb's to help them off for the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. The rest of us had fun playing games and visiting until they came back.
Saturday was the wedding!
Devin with his fresh hair cut!

My adorable Grandad! When he walked out of his room dressed and ready to leave for the wedding, I exclaimed, "Grandad! You look so handsome!" Everyone turned to look at him and exclaim over him! Grandma cried with pride!
That's Uncle Dennis to the right of Grandad.

Shelby and Devin switched shoes while they helped clean up after the wedding reception.

Devy Wevy

Aunt Nay, Aunt Joyce, Gavin, and Aunt Jo

Me & Gavin

Aunt Joyce and her girls, Becky & Christy

Mama, me, & Aunt Kendra

Grandma & Grandad

Grandad & Uncle Bob (my Grandma's bro-in-law)

The Sisters (minus Aunt Deb, mother-of-the-bride duties)

Uncle David(father-of-the-law) walking Donna down the isle

Me & Gavin at the reception

After the wedding reception we all pitched in and helped clean up. Sunday, we all went to church and then came home and played games and visited. Becky played dress up with Grandad and this is how he turned out!

After church that evening, the ladies of the family that were there, did our annual ornament swap. Christy had my name and got me the cutest snowman ornament. I gave Denni her ornament from Pan and gave Becky Raven's ornament from me. After that we all played Catch Phrase until we were too tired to stay awake! The next morning most everyone left and Aunt Deb, Aunt Kendra, and Grandma drove Aunt Joyce, mama, and me to the airport to see us off. I loved being with all of my family and can't wait to see them again at the Ken Woodmancy family reunion in June!

Pumpkin Patch

2009-11-23T19:38:00.004-06:00

One Saturday in October, a bunch of us from church met at The Great Pumpkin Patch. Also, my cousins Nolan and Brianna were there the same day. Nolan stayed with Jared and I and Brianna was there with her softball team. We also had Xander and Hannah with us. Jared and I had a good laugh at Hannah's expense, I won't tell it on the world wide web, but just know it was too funny and even grossed Xander out! After the Pumpkin Patch, my cousin Dawn invited us to eat with Brianna's ball team at Stuart's parent's house where he was grilling. On the way there, Hannah had to "go" real bad, and bless her heart she had held it a long time already, and tried awfully hard to hold it til we got there, but finally blurted out that, "Sometimes my daddy lets me pee in the grass!" Let me just say that Josh does NOT go around letting Hannah pee outdoors! At any rate, we pulled the car over (she was moaning and trying real hard to hold it) at a woodsy area, stripped Hannah's bottoms off and let her pee in the grass! Nolan and Jared covered their eyes as we all were laughing hysterically! By the way, pam and Xander were in the other car and pulled over with us, Pam took pictures, but from a distance so Hannah is not indecently exposed! We had such a good time with all the kids!

October Fun!

2009-11-19T17:24:00.007-06:00

It's A Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown...

Jennifer had the great idea of getting the little kids at church together for some Halloween fun! We met after morning worship for lunch at the church building. Mama made pizza crusts of all sizes so the kids could make their very own pizzas. We played games, ate, listened to Halloween music, had Halloween storytime, and watched, It's A Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. I had so much fun getting ready for this event! The kids wore me out, though! Xander came home with us so his family could be at the hospital (his mom had just been admitted the night before, stayed in ICU for over 3 weeks, and later passed away. Please pray for our friends, the Hosmers, Mrs. Linda was a good friend!)We always have a good time when Xander comes over, and have since deemed Sunday afternoons as Wii time (our Little man is addicted to video games :) Xander helped me decorate for Halloween and I had the best time with him! I love experiencing things through his eyes! He put Halloween cutouts all over our pantry door and dishwasher. Jared said I needed to take it down because it looked tacky, but I didn't want to cause I loved the way he displayed it all...it had a story behind it! The ghost was hidden behind the dishtowel, so "when Jared dries his hands, he'll scream 'Ahhh! A ghost'" The whole setup was cute, so Jared relented and left it up til Halloween!
Xander trying on the mullet wig!

Notice the Halloween decor!

Bathtime fun with Xander...
Another weekend Xander spent the night with us. I gave him a mohawk while he was taking a bath and he thought he was "So cool!" and yelled "Rock on!"

My 30th Birthday!

2009-10-03T22:10:00.005-05:00

October 2, 2009:

We like to celebrate birthdays around here, for about a week! I love it! Last Saturday, we were in Brundidge. Mr. Harry and Mrs. Becky took us out to eat and gave me some gifts (a necklace and earring set that are so pretty and generous gift cards to Red Lobster and Wal-Mart.) Tuesday,we all went with dad to teach his Faulkner class and ate at Mellow Mushroom and played trivia. It wasn't for my birthday but it felt like it because we were all together. On Thursday, I came home from school and found a new pair of shoes on my dresser! Thanks Jared! I also received a card from my grandma in the mail! That night Jared took me out to eat at Chili's and bought me two shirts and a pair of pants. I love my hubby!
Friday morning I woke up like normal and got ready for work. I received two birthday texts, one from Pam and one from Rachel! I left for work. I pulled out of my driveway, drove around to the front of the house and saw this...

My friends and sister flamingoed (or pingoed, as Hannah called it) my yard the night before!
I pulled over, got out of the car to take pictures and I started laughing and crying at the same time! I felt so loved and lucky to have such good friends!

When I got to work, I got a phone call for Joseph! He sang happy birthday to me, but changed the words around to something like this:
"Happy birthday to you,
Happy birthday to you,
My sister who inspired me to be a teacher,
And I love her so much!"
So I got teary eyed again!
So far being 30 was making me emotional!

Next, all my students came in and began handing me cards and gifts! One had her grandmother bake me a cake and my room mom brought us all cupcakes and even lit a candle for me to blow out! They were so excited! One of my favorites was a card made by a student. It was very pretty and well thought out. The front had she and I, colored brown. The inside another portrait of she and I colored white. Very funny! That afternoon she made me another card that was all stapled up on both sides. When I finally pried it open, out popped a mangled, but still covered in its original paper, bar of hotel soap!
I also received birthday texts from Kim and Paul!
My coworkers were going to cook me taco soup, but our principal decided to cook all of the teachers soup, ruining their surprise! It was nice of them to think of me! They also gave me a nice card with a gift card to Target inside!
That evening, we met several friends and family members at Cracker Barrel.
Today I had plans to go shopping with Katie and Hannah while Jared helped his brother and Jenny move to a new apartment. Jennifer came too and Pam was to meet us there at Target. We got to Target and received a call from Pam telling us she was hungry (she had run a 5k that morning) so we were gonna meet somewhere to eat. We left Target with me naming all the area restaurants. I thought it was strange neither Katie nor Jennifer would confirm a place to eat. Katie said she wanted to ride to downtown Trussville to see what was that way. As we drove, I named more restaurants that were down that way and even naming a place I had always wanted to try, The Chocolate Bisquit Tea Room. No one said anything and so we kept driving. Katie turned into The Chocolate Bisquit. I thought to myself, oh, their gonna eat here since I always say we should come here, probably because it was my birthday yesterday, but I never said anything or suspected anything either, for that matter! I called Pam and said we are eatting at The Chocolate Bisquit. I heard a lot of noise in the background and asked her where was she. She told me she was at Arby's and she would leave there and meet us at the tea room. We walked in and I fell in love, looking at the quaint restaurant, noting that Katie gave the hostess a look and said we are going to the back as the hostess just nodded, but I thought to myself, I missed her saying table for 4 because I was admiring the place! Anyhow, we walked to the back and there sat Pam (how did she get here so fast?) and...Kim..."Hey what is going on???" They said "Happy Birthday!" They wanted to make my 30th special! How sweet! Then my mama showed up! I thought she was at the camp yard sale!!!! Kim handed me a card from her and Rachel (Rachel had to work). It was my only 30th birthday card that actually said 30 on it AND it contained a promise of lunch and Painted By U with Kim and Rachel! Yay! Another place I've always wanted to go!!! I am the luckiest girl in the WORLD!!! After lunch it was back to shopping where mama got me a dress and gave me some money from she and dad! They had given me one present earlier this summer, some croc sandals, that I have been wearing all summer.
So, I've concluded that if being 30 means a fantastic, loving husband, a caring christian family, special sisters and friends in Christ, and great coworkers to interact with, then I'm gonna love it!
So, it's official, I'm thirty, flirty (well maybe not this one:) )and FABULOUS!

Here we go again!

2009-10-03T20:07:00.017-05:00

Ok, so I left off with my cousins, Derek and Devin. We took them to the airport and missed them as soon as we dropped them off!

Part of the time the boys were in town, my parents were out of town. They went to the beach with David, Susan, and Mary Courington. Aren't they cute????

Never before seen and captured on camera... Marty wears a pair of shorts!

After Jared and I dropped the boys off at the airport, we came home, packed, and left for Brundidge. We spent the night with the in-laws and then drove to Panama City, FL, the next morning for two of Jared's cousins weddings. Friday evening A LOT of the Sanders had dinner together at The Back Porch. Later that evening we went over to drop off some things for Samantha's wedding. Saturday morning Jared, Andy, and I walked around Pier Park. Next we headed over to (I forget the name of the public beach) at the Jettie's. Samantha and Richard were married in the pavillion there on the beach. Lots of fun happenings there!

After their wedding, we went to the reception at the clubhouse. Then, it was off to the Paradis Palms for Katie and Stewart's wedding. It was right on the beach of the hotel where all of us Sanders were staying, at sunset. It was beautiful! The reception was on the deck of the Paradise Palms. We had a wonderful time with everyone!

Cade May

Jared and Tony

Sunday we went to church and then came home in time for church that evening.

Friday, July 31, was my mama's birthday! I went to JCA summer camp to visit and came home with Chandler and Marley for the weekend! We stopped by Sam's to pick mama out some treats for her birthday. Marley picked out 4 molten cakes, chocolate and cinnamon. Chandler picked out M&M sandwich cookies with cream in the middle. Then we surprised her at work! That evening was the last youth devotional for the summer at the church building. Xander had been leading songs like a big boy all summer at the devotionals. I always had trouble singing with him because I was too busy choking back tears of pride. Well, I told Chandler he could lead a song if he wanted to. I told him he had to wait until the song was finished. When the song finished, Chandler piped, "I wanna lead one!" Too late because someone else had already started one. David heard him so when that song was over David told the crowd that Chandler wantged to lead a song. He asked Chandler what did he want to lead, but Chandler froze, so someone else led one. Chandler told David he wanted to led Jesus Loves Me! Then he walked up in front of everyone and started the song! I found myself once again choking back tears of pride! This was Chandler's first time and he did such a good job! He goes to a VERY big church so opportunities are not the same for him when it comes to leading singing and such like we have at Sylvan Springs. I am so PROUD of that kid!
I sent this picture to his dad!

The next morning we set off to get mama a birthday gift. Marley and I picked out the gift while Jared took Chandler into a guy store, where he would do less damage (if you know Chan then you know what I mean!)
Jared took this picture of Chan at Hibbetts.

At Big Lots, Chandler picked mama out some stamps which he just so happened to get to play with at church the next morning! Then we headed over to Macaroni Grill to meet mama, daddy, and Pam for lunch.

August 8: I went to Ladies Day at Ashville Road with Katie and Rachel. Then shopping with Katie!

August 12: First day of school! Ugh!

August 14: We all took Jared Xander back to school shopping and he was spoiled rotten! We had dinner with David and Susan at Dale's. Susan asked Xander what he had learned his first week of school and he replied, "I learned to go to time-out!" That boy!

August 16: I went to Katie's baby shower at Kim's. That night after church we had an "sending off to college for Alex.

August 17: Joseph started his first day of education classes. He is getting another degree, fine arts in education. I am so proud of him! He is loving his classes!

August 21: Daddy's surgery! Ugh! It didn't turn out the way we had hoped, but there is still hope! We will know more in January! PLEASE keep praying for him and thanks for all of the prayers on his behalf thus far!

August 23: The little ball of energy, aka, Hannah, had her third birthday party and it was such fun!

September 6: Joseph came home. We went to eat Chinese for lunch for dad's birthday. I regrettably took no pictures of dad, but got several of little man outside the restaurant!

September 7: Labor Day! All the Glenn's came to our house along with my neighbor, Mrs. Chandler, for lunch. I love being around them! Oh! Pam brought Chad to meet the family (and two of his friends). Sadly, Uncle David was the one who wanted him to come, but he ended up spending a few days in the hospital instead!

September 8: Daddy's birthday! Mama, Jared, and I rode with him to teach his Faulkner class and then had dinner at the Mellow Mushroom and played the trivia game they have every Tuesday night!

September 13: We celebrated Keri's birthday after church that night. That afternoon we went to Target to get her gift. Xander picked her out several interesting things for her, my favorite was the Barbie socks (she's 12!) She rocked them on Monday at school! Hehehe! Xander was so proud!
I took this picture of him outside of Target!

September 19: Ladies Day at Sylvan Springs with Cherry Chesser! It was fabulous!

September 26: Jared and I went to Brundidge for his cousin, Adam's, wedding.

That about catches us up!
My birthday post to follow!

Prayers Needed!

2009-08-20T22:19:00.002-05:00

Please pray for my dad, Marty Glenn, tomorrow! He is having his "reconnect" surgey. Please pray that everything goes smoothly, that his recover goes well, and for Dr. Matthews, Dr. Fennell, and others that will be doing the surgery and taking care of him! "The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." James 5:16
THANKS!

Derek and Devin

2009-07-23T01:23:00.003-05:00

Monday we met Derek's girlfriend from Tupelo at the Jasper movie theatre. I didn't even know Jasper had a movie theatre! It surely doesn't look like on either. It shows four movies. The lobby was decorated with things made out of boxes that were put together sloppily. There was a transformer, a bank (random), and some building. Weird! I was completely disappointed when they advertised Otis Spuntmeyer cookies, but had none! When I walked inside the theatre I immediately had deja vu. It took me back to the college days and going to the dollar theatre in Prattville. Both are Cobbs, so that must be why. Anyhow, we saw Harry Potter again, which was good because I saw one part I missed. I must have dozed for a minute or two despite my love for the movies and books. Did I mention that Jared and I started a Harry Potter marathon on Friday, July 10 and ended it a day before we went and saw the first movie? We are nerds and proud of it! Back to our evening, so, we are watching a movie with this girl we have never met and her parents, who were all pleasant people to be around! Ok, then comes the bathrooms. Wow... I mean, I love using the restroom with the toilet paper holder in my rib cage and my other elbow bumping the other wall. Tight squeeze not to mention the lovely brown and tan tiled floor and walls. Must have been the original decor. Anyhow, after we left we needed to stop for gas. Check out the sign at the gas station. Only in Walker County can you get this experience!
Tuesday we met Jennifer, Ian, Maddie, Katie, and Hannah at Fun Factory. We had a good time, maybe too good because Jared, Pam, Derek, and Devin took down the bouncey/jumping inflatable! The girl had to hook a new pump up to it and then it was back like new! No worries! It's all good! I took a picture of it, but with Pam's camera, so I don't have it to put on here. It was hilarious!
Today we were supposed to go to the park, but it rained, so instead, we played games, mostly Risk. The boys leave tomorrow. Or should I say today because it it ten til 2 am. Derek just made some cheese grits and Jared and Devin are playing Wii Fit. We are all laughing at old Kramer/Art Garfunkel or better known as Devin! He cannot hula hoop!
We will definitely miss the boys when they go home tomorrow!