The Smith Family

Picture Update

2010-04-11T22:04:00.002-05:00

Click the following links for picture updates from FaceBook.

Random pics

Mobile pics

Easter 2010

Boating pics

Snow 2/12/2010

Perdido Beach

Hunting Season 09-10

Update

2009-11-29T22:19:00.001-06:00

Okay, so I have been scolded by several people for not updating my blog with pictures of the boys. Well, you know how it goes with getting busy and Face Book has spoiled me.

Click Here to view Greenville/Auburn Tigers pictures

Click Here to view Hunting Season 09-10 pictures

Click Here to view Zoo pictures

Click Here to view Wedding Party pictures

Click Here to view October pictures

* If you don't have a Face Book account, you may want to get one so you can stay updated more frequently! These days Time is not on my side and it's hard to continue to do both.

I hope everyone had a Happy Thanksgiving!

1st Dove Hunt

2009-09-08T21:33:00.002-05:00

This past Saturday afternoon Whit & Brady went on their first dove hunt. It was a little warm, but they had a great time. Of course their favorite part was riding the Mule with Grandma.Whit

Brady

Brady & Whit

Brady with a blue wing teal
Saturday morning Michael, his dad, and I went duck & goose hunting. We killed 2 geese & 2 blue wing teal.

Click HERE to see more pictures.

Wow, what a summer!!!

2009-08-10T19:16:00.002-05:00

I can't believe my summer break is OVER. It has been a very busy summer going to the beach, pool, grandparents, grandparents, & grandparents again. You get the idea. Whit & Brady love to go bye-bye. It don't matter to them where we go, they just want to go. They are at such a fun age. They love for you to read books to them and they are trying to say new words everyday. However, it is time to get back into a routine. They love Mama Jane and she loves them. They will be going to Mother's Day Out two days a week. I know they will grow & learn even more when they start. I can't believe how much they change in such a short period of time!

Click HERE to see pictures from the summer.

Click HERE to see War Eagle pictures. We are getting ready for some Auburn football!!!

Gulf Shores June 28-July 1, 2009

2009-07-07T16:10:00.006-05:00

We went to Gulf Shores again and was able to stay 3 nights because Michael was off a week for July 4. We had a blast and were exhausted when we made it home. Whit & Brady had a lot of fun and enjoyed the beach and made several girlfriends where we stayed (There were little girls everywhere!). Here a few pictures.

Whit & Brady looking at the crab in the bucket.

Playing with water in the bucket.

This was our view where we stayed at Bay Breeze.

Whit on the beach taking a nap on Mama .

Brady snuggling with Grandma.

Whit sleeping after we got home.

Brady pretending to go to sleep.

Click HERE to view more pictures.

Happy Anniversary!

2009-06-27T22:51:00.003-05:00

We are celebrating our 11th year of marriage today! Boy, how time flies when you're having so much fun!!! Michael had to work today because he will have the week of July 4th off. We had pizza for supper but we didn't mind. We are beach bound in the morning and will return Wednesday. We are very excited to be able to spend this time together with our family and are looking forward to relaxing a little bit. I will post pictures soon!

Missing My Boys!!!

2009-06-23T16:27:00.004-05:00

This week I'm at Auburn for AP Language & Composition training. So far, I'm feeling very overwhelmed with all the information that I'm receiving and thinking how am I going to make sure I teach this info. to my students. But no worries ... I'll have it all worked out by the time school starts in August. Even though I'm staying very busy, I'm really missing my boys! I know life is good for them because they are with grandparents all week. They will be so spoiled when I get home Friday afternoon!

I have been so busy so I have not had an opportunity to post beach pictures. I'm posting a link to my Facebook picture album. Click here to see the album. I hope to post some pictures from this week soon.

Have a good week and War Eagle.

Whit & Brady, Mama misses you very much and I Love You! Love you too, Michael!

May Update

2009-06-08T16:06:00.010-05:00

I have been in hot water from several family members for not updating my blog lately. I don't know where time goes so here is a quick update from the month of May.

We went camping at Uncle Lee's again, had a wonderful Mother's Day weekend, and was just trying to survive until the end of the school year. Now summer is here and I have been enjoying spending time with the boys. I'll post beach pictures from this past weekend soon.

Easter/Beach April 09

2009-04-25T20:39:00.002-05:00

I'm sorry I haven't posted these pictures earlier. They are from Easter Sunday, my spring break, and our trip to Gulf Shores. We are staying busy and I'm counting down the days until my summer break. I hope you enjoy the slide show!!

Our 1st boat/fishing trip

2009-04-05T16:42:00.001-05:00

This past weekend we went camping at Michael's Uncle Lee's pond. The weather was absolutely gorgeous! We had a very busy weekend too. After we set up things Friday afternoon, we took a ride on Grandma & Grandpa's Mule. Saturday morning Michael went turkey hunting but had no luck. After he got back from hunting, the boys went on their first boat ride. Then Michael, Grandpa, & I rode horses while Grandma, Whit, Brady, & Amber rode the Mule, and Chris, Ridge, Alex, & Avery rode 4-wheelers (sorry, no pictures of that because I was riding a horse - the 1st time in 2 years!). We had a lot of fun doing that, but we didn't stop there. After a short rest, we headed down to the pond for the boys first fishing trip.

In case you didn't know it takes at least 4 adults to take 15 month old twin boys fishing for the first time. Mama & Daddy holding the boys while catching fish, Grandpa baiting the hook and/or taking off the fish, & Grandma taking pictures. There were a few other adults there too and I'm sure they pitched in with some help.

Needless to say, we were worn out by dark. I hope you enjoy the pictures!

My Official Letter!!!

2009-04-02T21:29:00.004-05:00

Today, I received my official letter stating that I PASSED my Comps!!! Thank you, Lord!

Of course, I can't complete a post without pictures of the boys. These were taken one day last week after a long day of rain.

Brady watching Whit from a distance.

Whit walking/playing in a mud puddle for the 1st time!

Update

2009-03-15T22:29:00.000-05:00

Just to let you all know ... I have been studying for my master's degree comps that I will take Wed., March 18. I will have four hours to complete four essays. If I pass these, then I will finally have my master's degree from Troy Montgomery!!! Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers.

Don't forget to check out the new post below about the little stinkers and their new tricks!

Our New Tricks!

2009-03-15T22:25:00.004-05:00

Last Saturday morning (3/7/09), when Michael went in to get the boys, this is what he found, Whit in the bed with Brady!

So Michael asked me if I had been in the boys' room yet. I said no and got the camera. Whit decided that he wanted to be in his brother's bed, not his. As we were standing there taking pictures, Whit decided to show us how he got in Brady's bed.

Here he is climbing over from Brady's bed to his.

And never lost his paci in the process!!!

Now back over to Brady's bed!

Look Mom and Dad what I can do!!

Needless to say, Whit's bed is now lowered to the lowest setting, and Momma has a very hard time putting him to bed with out dropping him.

Then, Sunday afternoon Michael calls me to the living room and this is what I find.

Yes, those are my twin boys on the coffee table, who were born 10 weeks early and spent 45 days in the NICU, but look what a difference one year makes!

Whit and Brady, "What we're not doing anything!"

Below is Whit playing with one of his favorite birthday gifts that was given to him and Brady. It sticks on the refrigerator and plays music. He and Brady have really enjoyed this - thanks Jason, Jana, & Joseph.

It was such a beautiful weekend and we spent most of Saturday & Sunday outside. They also love their John Deere tractors that were a Christmas gift from Great Uncle Lee & Great Aunt Brenda - thanks so much!

Playing in the Snow!

2009-03-01T11:21:00.000-06:00

The boys spent the night with Grandma & Grandpa last night. So when Michael woke up at 5:45 and it was snowing, needless to say, we headed to get the boys ASAP. Here are a few pictures.

I hate to admit it ...

2009-02-28T22:21:00.003-06:00

but I'm ADDICTED to Facebook!

One Year Check Up

2009-02-23T20:43:00.001-06:00

The boys' one year check up was Jan. 12, 2009. I know I'm a little behind but here are the results . . .

Whitman Glover 12/27/07 weight 3.9; height 15 inches
1/12/09 weight 18.8; height 29 inches

Brady Robert 12/27/07 weight 3.5; height 15 inches
1/12/09 weight 20.0; height 28 inches

As you can see, Whit is taller and weights less and Brady is shorter and weighs more. The doctor said they are a little small but they will catch up. Remember, they were 10 weeks early!

Brady still has a total of 6 teeth and Whit has only 3. They are both walking everywhere! Oh, what fun!!

They are both drinking whole milk and have been eating a variety of different table foods. They are also drinking out of sippy cups better but are not ready to give up their bottles just yet! They are starting to interact with each other more and more each day. It is so sweet to watch them smiling and laughing at each other. These moments are so precious.

They are both saying some words, but Brady is definitely the talker. He can say dadda, mama, and bye-bye, and trying to say other words that we can't understand. Whit's first word was bye-bye (that's a little scary), and he can say mama when he is tired and really wants me.

Here are a few pictures.

This one was taken on Uncle Ricky's new boat.

Here they are a couple of weeks ago with Daddy on a big tractor. They loved it.

Our Inspiration

2009-02-15T21:24:00.001-06:00

For Valentine's Day this year, we decided to go to the beach. It has been awhile since we have gone out of town without the boys, so Nana and Papa David so graciously kept Whit & Brady for us. We left first thing Saturday morning and stopped by the outlet stores in Foley before we checked in at our hotel or should I say Resort. If you have never used Hotwire.com, I strongly recommend it. We were very satisfied with our price and quality. We stayed at Perdido Beach Resort in Orange Beach and it was so much fun. Once we arrived around 3:30 Saturday afternoon, we didn't leave until 11:00 Sunday morning. The resort had two restaurants to choose from, entertainment in the lobby area, indoor/outdoor pool, two jacuzzis, and the list goes on! We couldn't believe that we were staying at such a nice place for so cheap. Anyway, let me get to the point of this post. While we were waiting for a table at the Cafe Palm Breeze, we watched couple after couple going to the ballroom for a Mardi Gras/Valentine party. It was a lot of fun watching these older couples come in dressed up in fancy dresses and tuxedos. However, the best part was the entertainment in the lobby area. There were two guys, one playing the piano and one playing a saxophone, and then the dancing started. We had to wait about an hour to get a table, but it only seemed like 15 minutes. We had so much fun watching these older couples dance the night away. When we finished eating, we sat around and continued to watch these couples dance, and, of course, Michael insisted that we join in on some of the songs.

The picture below is of a couple that I couldn't resist taking. They are truly our inspiration. Michael and I enjoyed watching this couple smile, dance, and interact with one another.
I didn't realize that she had her eyes closed in the picture until they had left. We have no idea what their names are, but we do know that they are 81 years old and have been married over 50 years! They said they were snowbirds. That is all we know about them because they had their last dance after we talked to them for a few minutes and then they were gone. Michael and I both agreed that we hope that we will be able to smile, dance, and interact with one another the way they did after we have been married for even 20 years, let alone 50!

Here are a few more pictures from our weekend.

We took this picture on our balcony.

The restaurant we ate at.

The two-man band.

Couples dancing the night away!

Michael on the beach.

We decided to go through Pensacola on our way back to my mother's house, so we had to eat lunch at one of my favorite places - Smokeys. Mmmm, it was delicious!

We had a Great weekend together, but we were glad to see our little stinkers. It's always nice to get away but it's always nice to get back home too!

Hope you guys had a Happy Valentine's Day!!

Oh, Happy Day!

2009-02-10T22:32:00.000-06:00

Today (2/10/09) marks another milestone! One year ago, we were finally able to bring the boys home after 45 days in the NICU - Oh, Happy Day!!! We were so happy, nervous, & excited. Here are a few pictures from that day and a few days after.

We took this picture while we were outside waiting for the doctor to sign paperwork to release the boys.

The last picture of them taken in the hospital. Can you say HALALUIA?

And here they are at home for the first time! Yes, they are in those car seats somewhere. They were so tiny.

Later that night with both of my boys with OUT those tubes, wires, & monitors.

Whit -"I'm so glad to be home in my bed where it is nice and quiet!"

Mama's little angels. (This makes my heart smile.)

What else can I say except I'm the luckiest Mama and wife in the world!

Tagged! Winnie-the-Pooh

2009-02-05T21:58:00.001-06:00

So I have been tagged! This is from my pictures - 4th folder, 4th picture.
Let me explain . . . This is from my last spring production as the drama teacher at Greenville High in April 2007. You probably already guessed the play - Winnie-the-Pooh. I guess I went out with a bang because this was my best production as a director. We had a total of five shows, which is a lot for high school students. They did an awesome job! Below are a few other pictures from the performances.

I'm not for sure who enjoyed the meet-and-greet session after the show more, the characters, or the small children.

While posting these pictures, I can't help to miss being involved with drama and the students. However, I only miss it for a few seconds because it is very, very hard work that goes unrecognized (like most jobs). Now, instead of staying after school two extra hours, two days a week, I come home to see my handsome, growing boys!

Okay, here are your instructions: Go to your pictures... pick the 4th folder and then the 4th picture..POST IT!! Then tag 4 people!

I tag all of YOU!

1 Year Pictures

2009-01-19T21:56:00.002-06:00

These pictures were taken at the beginning of December. It may take a little while to see all of them. I think there's around 100 or so. They were all so good so I couldn't resist not including them all - playing around, eyes closed, funny expressions on faces, & the perfect ones too. I hope you enjoy!

Thanks Elliemae for taking such great pictures of our family. We LOVE you!!

Christmas 2008 Update

2009-01-10T22:56:00.001-06:00

I know this post is a little behind but I guess it's better late than never. I have been wanting to get some of the Christmas pictures downloaded but there just doesn't seem to be enough hours in the day anymore. The past few weeks Brady has been staying up to at least 9:00 and sometimes later than that. So by the time I get him to bed and try to get a few things done (clean kitchen & living room, wash a load of clothes or fold clothes, bath, etc., you get the idea) it is way past my bedtime. Oh, and did I mention that this is still after Michael has done his part and helped cook and/or clean up too! It is crazy!!!

Anyway, back to Christmas 2008. Our Christmas festivities started Fri., Dect. 19. We went to my dad's (Gramps) house for the boys' first Christmas presents. They weren't sure about it, but in the pictures below you can see them crawling around on the presents.

Whit and Brady with Gramps

Brady

Whit

Whit

Also, you remember how warm it was this Christmas so that is why they are dressed in onezies. I had such cute little Christmas outfits for them but it was just way too HOT for them to wear.

We got home Saturday afternoon. Then on Sunday we headed to Michael's Granny and Grandaddy's house (great grandparents).

Here are the boys enjoying their Christmas lunch with Alex (in picture), Avery, & Ridge.

This picture is so cute. Whit & Brady are climbing on their presents from Avery, Alex, & Ridge.

Monday we put away all their presents from the previous two Christmas stops, but Tuesday we were off to Mama Jane's. The boys were so happy to see her. I could tell that they missed her and she missed them. We had a nice visit with Mama Jane. Her three kids were there, a long with her 93 year old mother.

Then Christmas Eve we went to Michael's parents' house (Grandma & Grandpa). I was so busy video taping this visit that I didn't get many photos, but you can see the boys on their new rocking horses.

And finally Christmas day.

They love their new fish aquarium!

This wagon was given to us last year as a Christmas present from Michael's Aunt Brenda and Uncle Lee. The boys have really enjoyed being pulled around in it outside.

There's nothing better than a quick horse back ride with Cheynne on Christmas morning.

After spending a short time at home Christmas morning, we were on the road again. We had lunch at Michael's Nana's house. We were so busy with opening presents and visiting with family that I didn't get a chance to take any pictures.

From there we headed to Andalusia to have Christmas with my mother (Nana & Papa David) and family. Again, no pictures. Sorry. This really makes me made and sad, but by this time I was just worn out! Overall, I think the boys were great! They enjoyed playing with their new toys and spending time with family.

We finally returned home Friday to get ready for their birthday party the next day. Their first Christmas was busy but we had fun. It was an emotional holiday for us because last year's Christmas I was in the hospital trying not to give birth 10 weeks early. However, two days later they were born - one of the happiest days of my life!

Michael took this picture of Brady hanging on to me while I was trying to wash dishes. I just love that smile! I'll try to post more pictures soon.

I have to say this was the BEST Christmas I have ever had!!! I'm already looking forward to Christmas 2009!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2009-01-01T00:00:00.001-06:00

I think everybody says the same thing every year, "I can't believe another year has come and gone." Well, it is so true! The older I get it seems that every year passes quicker than the year before. It's hard to believe that this time last year my baby boys were in the NICU. I remember last New Year's Eve (going to bed before midnight) telling Michael how different next year's New Year's Eve (2008) would be. Boy was I right!!!
Today Whit woke up around 8:00 this morning with Brady following him about 15 minutes later. We had breakfast, changed clothes, went to the bank and CVS. Got back from town, had lunch, changed clothes again, and headed to pick Michael up from work and went to Bass Pro Shop. Then we ate at Applebee's and the boys were both asleep before we left the parking lot. After we were home, the boys ate supper, had a bath, bottle, and went fast to sleep. No parties for us this year and I'm okay with that.
What a difference one year makes. The first day of 2008 when I wanted to see my boys, I had to go to Baptist South NICU. Jan. 1, 2009 when I want to see my boys, all I have to do is go in the next room!!! Man, what a great year this is going to be!!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Birthday Pictures

2008-12-30T21:12:00.003-06:00

Whit and Brady's 1st Birthday party was GREAT!!! The weather was fantastic and everyone enjoyed being outside watching the kids play and socializing. It was fun to watch how different Brady & Whit reacted to their birthday cakes. As you can see in the pictures below, Brady didn't have a problem with digging in. However, Whit was a little more leary and wasn't interested. Overall, I think their first birthday party was a hit. Thank you Grandparents and Mama Jane for all of your help! And thanks for all the gifts from all of you!

Thanks Elliemae for taking the pictures!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BOYS!!!

2008-12-27T00:00:00.002-06:00

It's hard to believe that these miracle babies are one year old today!!! I'm too emotional to say anything more than I'm the luckiest mother there is in the world to be given the opportunity to watch these boys grow and develop into such interesting and caring people. I will try to post later when I'm not so emotional (yeah, right!).

Happy Birthday Little Stinkers!

Christmas Tree

2008-12-22T20:17:00.000-06:00

Some have asked about our Christmas tree this year since we have two, special, crawling babies in the house. So I thought I would share a couple of pictures so that you can see our creativity. We put the tree in the same location as we have had it in the past but with a little added decorations ... see below.

Merry Christmas!!!

Thanksgiving Pictures

2008-12-10T20:04:00.001-06:00

Here are a few pictures I took over the Thanksgiving Holiday.

Below is Whit with Great Granny. I couldn't resist taking this picture with his belly showing. I think we all feel this way after Thanksgiving dinner. This is the boys with Great Nana. We enjoyed being outside with the family.

I think these are my favorite from the week. I went to my dad's earlier in the week and went by to see my brother. In case some of you did not know, Ricky is now a proud owner of a motorcycle. Brady absolutely LOVED it. When I got him from Ricky, he pitched a fit - kicking his feet and crying. I guess he is going to be our "Wild Child." I think we will be getting some accidental insurance on him.

Look at the chair closely that the boys are sitting in. This is Ricky's chair that he got when he turned one, about 37 years ago. The boys were checking it out and thought they were such big boys sitting in it.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

2008-11-26T20:18:00.005-06:00

This is a very special Thanksgiving for us this year because we have two precious little boys to be thankful for. We both have a very long list of things that we are thankful for, but I will shorten the list because I don't have much time.

We are thankful for - each other, family, friends, our animals, our health, our jobs, food, all of our materials things that we don't really need, and, last, but not least, God because all of the other things would not be possible without Him.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!!!

More Pictures

2008-11-16T20:37:00.000-06:00

I found this post that I never officially posted. These pictures were taken around the first of October.

Michael clowning around with the boys in their bed.
Whit found out that if he is not strapped in his high chair, then he can turn around and stand up.
"What mama? I'm not doing anything!"

The following pictures were taken at Dave and Mandi's Tailgate shower. War Eagle!

The next two pictures are priceless. We took their coral outside one afternoon. When I turned around to check on them, they were being entertained by the chickens. You know, normally the chickens are the ones that are in a cage.

These pictures were taken the same afternoon. I can remember the first time Michael rode them on the 4-wheeler, boy have they grown!!! Belle and Maggie in the background.

Can you say mischievous?

A few pictures ...

2008-11-16T20:11:00.001-06:00

It's been a few weeks since I posted so I thought I would share a few pictures.

Below is Whit in the Coke basket on the 4-Wheeler. He was helping Daddy do some work in the yard.

I love this picture of Brady. Michael was going through some of his empty hulls for reloading and Brady found the container. He has four teeth now. You can see his bottom two in this picture. Whit is still trying to get one tooth.

This picture was taken at Nana's house in her newly remodeled kitchen. They seem to like it too.

Whit found the tissue paper.

October was Breast Cancer Awareness month and one of the club's at school raised money by having a Breast Cancer Awareness walk around the school. They also honored some survivors, so Jane and boys joined us. Here is a picture of them in their stroller checking out all the high school kids. They also attended their first pep rally that day.

10 Months Old!

2008-10-28T21:24:00.001-05:00

I can't believe Whit and Brady are 10 months old!!! They are growing up so fast and doing new things everyday. I love to watch them discovering new things, and they are starting to interact with each other more everyday. It is so sweet to watch them smiling and laughing at each other, and Whit is always pulling and/or crawling on Brady.
Here are a few pictures Elliemae took Saturday in front of city hall.

I love the picture below. We are caught in the act of changing the boys. Have you ever heard the expression "A picture says a thousand words"? I think this picture says it all! Sometimes it gets really crazy around our house, but I LOVE every moment!!!

Our 1st Halloween Party

2008-10-21T22:04:00.000-05:00

This past Sunday (10/19/08), we went to Whit and Brady's first Halloween party. The boys are, of course, Little Stinkers (skunks). I was worried about it being too hot for them to be able to wear their costumes, but it was perfect weather. They had a great time playing in the hay and watching the other kids running around. Here are a few pictures from the afternoon.

Thanks Walker for our first Halloween party. We had a GREAT time!

9 Months Check-Up

2008-10-15T20:11:00.001-05:00

Whit & Brady had their 9 months check-up Tues., Oct. 14, which they are actually 9 1/2 months old. Whit is 27 1/2 inches long and weights 16 pounds. Brady is 27 inches long and weights 18 pounds. The doctor was very happy with their progress for preemies.
Here are a few pictures I took after we got back from Montgomery.

A Girls' Weekend at the Beach!

2008-10-13T15:47:00.000-05:00

This past weekend a group of my girlfriends headed to Gulf Shores for Shrimpfest. It was a GREAT weekend. Some of the girls went shopping and some of us went to the pool. I decided to go to the pool, so that is what I did. I spent the whole day out by the pool soaking up the sun.
This was my first weekend away from the boys for two nights in a row. Michael kept them Friday night and they went to his mom and dad's Saturday. I needed a nice, relaxing weekend, but I was ready to come home to see my family.

Thanks girls! I had a wonderful weekend and can't wait to do it again!!!

Happy Birthday to Me!

2008-10-05T22:33:00.000-05:00

Well, today I turned 32!. It doesn't seem like I'm that old, but is 32 really that old? Some say yes, and some say no. I guess it depends on how old you are now. Anyway, when I woke up this morning this is what Michael and the boys brought to me.

I have to say this birthday card is definitely better than any $5 card you can buy at Wal-Mart.

I have had a great birthday. I spent the day with my three boys and enjoyed every bit of it.

Personality Types

2008-10-02T21:48:00.001-05:00

A few weeks ago in one of my graduate classes, we were discussing learning styles of adults. In this discussion, we also talked about personality types. So tonight, I was working on my final paper for that class and got a little distracted and decided to go to this website http://www.kisa.ca/personality/. Below are my results, which I thought was very interesting. I thought I would share with you guys to see what you think. Does this really describe my personality? I'm a little leery about the athletic trait.

ESTJs generally have the following traits:
-Natural leaders - they like to be in charge
-Value security and tradition
-Loyal
-Hard-working and dependable
-Athletic and wholesome
-Have a clear set of standards and beliefs which they live by
-No patience with incompetence or inefficiency
-Excellent organizational abilities
-Enjoy creating order and structure
-Very thorough
-Will follow projects through to completion
-Straight-forward and honest
-Driven to fulfill their duties

ESTJs have a lot of flexibility in the types of careers that they choose. They are good at a lot of different things, because they put forth a tremendous amount of effort towards doing things the right way. They will be happiest in leadership positions, however, because they have a natural drive to be in charge. They are best suited for jobs which require creating order and structure.
The following list of professions is built on our impressions of careers which would be especially suitable for an ESTJ. It is meant to be a starting place, rather than an exhaustive list. There are no guarantees that any or all of the careers listed here would be appropriate for you, or that your best career match is among those listed.

Possible Career Paths for the ESTJ:
-Military leaders
-Business Administrators and Managers
-Police / Detective work
-Judges
-Financial Officers
-Teachers
-Sales Representatives

Okay, back to school work for me! Just think, this time next week, I will be finished with these darn college classes!!!

Greenville's Homecoming

2008-09-28T23:17:00.003-05:00

We have had an exciting two days. Thursday afternoon, we headed to the Homecoming parade. The boys' first parade!!! Michael wasn't able to go with me, so Mama Jane, so kindly, accepted the invite to help with the boys. We arrived early and let the boys take a quick nap before show time. They had a really good time. They loved watching all the people and the noise. Plus, they were being held and the center of attention. One of my coworkers also came by to see the boys so I was able to snap a few pictures.

Below is Brady with Mary Ann. Mama Jane with Whit

Friday night, we went to the game. It was so much better than the first game we attempted to go to. It was much cooler, and again we left a little early so that the boys would take a little nap on the way. Here are a few pictures of them in their Tiger outfits, of course, courtesy of Grandma Pat. What would we do without her and her sewing abilities?

Whit -left; Brady -right

This is how we get the boys to the stadium. Once we get there, we put the stroller in the ticket booth - one of the few advantages of being a teacher, I guess.
This time we were able to get some pictures of me with the boys. As you can see, they are taking it all in. Brady -left; Whit - right

I saved this one for last. While we were at the parade, a lady came by and started talking to Brady. She said, "Now are you Brady or Whitman?" It kind of shocked me because I was thinking how does she know my boys. Then she said, "Do you remember me taking care of you?" It hit me then! She was one of the nurses who took care of the boys while they were in the extended care nursery. I recognized her immediately. I guess I didn't recognize her at first because she was wearing regular clothes instead of a nurse's uniform. I was only able to get a picture of her and Brady, so this is to one of our WONDERFUL nurses who took such great care of the boys while they were in the hospital.

Brady and LaTronica (?spelling)

Thank you LaTronica! We will never forget all that you did for the boys!!!

First Dove Shoot

2008-09-21T22:09:00.000-05:00

Saturday the boys were able to attend their first social gathering before a dove shoot. It was about 2 miles from the house, so we dressed them up in their overalls and joined in on the socializing for a little while. When they started getting a little fussy, Grandma took them for a little ride to go see Great Nana. They were so cute dressed up in their, as Uncle Walt would say, "get dirty clothes." Last Saturday morning, Michael took Maggie dove hunting, and we think she pulled her leg muscle. When they got back from hunting she was limping on her leg. We had to go to Andalusia that afternoon to spend the night, so we took her with us to be able to keep a check on her. We had intended for her to ride in her kennel on the back of the truck, but it was really hot. Instead, she rode up front between Michael and me. I couldn't resist taking a few pictures of her trying to help Michael drive. It really looks like she is driving!

As most of you know, she is really our first child before the boys. She is still very spoiled rotten and loves the boys.

Look What I Can Do!

2008-09-17T22:43:00.001-05:00

The other night I put the boys in Brady's bed so I could put some of their clothes in their closet. When I turned around this is what I saw!

Whit

A few nights later, after giving the boys a bath, I put Whit in Brady's bed so I could dress Brady. When I turned around, this is what I saw again.

This is the boys playing in the living room.

First Football Game

2008-09-10T22:59:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it has almost been two weeks since I have posted. Obviously, I've been busy! Midterms were this past week, so I have been studying and writing papers. I can't wait until I finish these last two classes!

Anyway, I wanted to post these pictures of Michael and the boys at their first Greenville football game (9/5/08). They LOVED it! The only bad thing was the heat and humidity. We didn't stay very long because of the heat and it was getting past their bedtime. I'm looking forward to the cooler weather so maybe we can stay longer next time. The first picture was the only one I was able to capture with both of them looking at me. The other pictures are of the back of their head or the side of their face because they were so busy looking at all the activity around them. Maybe next time I can get a picture of me with them instead of Michael since he really doesn't care about football.

Opening Day of Early Goose Season

2008-09-01T19:54:00.001-05:00

Since I was pregnant the first part of season last year and just gave birth to twin boys the second part of season, I was not able to hunt with Michael like I usually do. However, this year is a little different! Now that the boys are here I still won't be able go as often as I use to, but I did go this morning, which was opening day of early goose season. We had a great time and killed 7 geese. Here are a few pictures from the hunt.

Yes, can you believe I let Michael paint my face for all goose hunts!

This was Eli's first goose hunt. Eli is David Wayne's oldest son, who is 6 years old. He did a great job being still and quiet when the birds came in. Below is Eli, David Wayne, & Michael.

Below is Scott, Willie, David Wayne, & Michael.

Dave and Mandi usually go with us on opening day, but they are in the middle of trying to get started on building a house, so they were not able to be with us this year. We missed you guys!

Bath Time

2008-08-31T22:06:00.000-05:00

At last, Whit is sitting on his own now, so we are able to take our baths at the same time! They are so cute and growing so much! It won't be much longer and they'll graduate to the real tub. Here are a few pictures of them together.

Whit (left); Brady (left)

I thought I would include these two pictures that were taken in February. This was when they were taking their bath in the pink pan from the hospital. Boy, have they grown!!!

Brady

Whit

Football!

2008-08-30T21:49:00.003-05:00

Finally, I have some males in my house that will watch football with me and not complain about it! So in honor of the Auburn Tigers, the boys and I dressed in our orange and blue and watched some football today! Here are a few pictures of us. (The outfits courtesy of Grandma Pat.)

Brady Whit
Brady (left); Whit (right)
The boys and Mama are ready for some Auburn football!!!
War Eagle!!!

A Rainy Weekend

2008-08-24T22:28:00.000-05:00

This past Saturday was one of those rainy days where you want to stay in the house and take a long, quiet, restful, afternoon nap; however, that is NOT what you do when you have twin boys who are 8 months old. I was hoping they would take a nap at the same time so that I would be able to take a nap too, but the boys had other plans. I'm okay with that because I was able to spend some one-on-one time with them. It seems like I don't ever get to see them anymore, between going back to work full time and taking two classes, I think I see them sleeping more than I do awake. I know things will be better after October. I will be finished with my classes!!!

Whit has been sick this past week. Michael took him to the doctor Wednesday. The doctor said he had a slight ear infection and a head cold. He is taking antibiotics but doesn't seem to be much better. He has been real fussy and is starting to cough more. He is not running a fever like he was earlier in the week. Hopefully, he will start feeling better soon. Brady has had a runny nose but has not had a fever or a cough yet. Let's hope he doesn't get any worse too!

Just to give everybody a head's up! Hunting season is coming soon, so that means there probably will be more posts about hunting than about the boys. You guys know how much Michael loves to bird hunt (goose, duck, dove, quail, crows, bats, chimney sweeps, just about anything that flies).

I hope you all have a good week. Just think, no school next Monday, but that's opening day for early Goose hunting. No sleeping in for me!

Here are a few pictures from the weekend.

Belle and Whit are getting some Daddy lov'n.

Brady chill'n in his walker.
Scooter chill'n in the boys' bouncy seat.

Pics from the weekend

2008-08-17T20:31:00.004-05:00

This past week was very busy. It was my first full week with the students, plus I started my last two graduate courses. By Friday afternoon I was in need for Whit and Brady lov'n! Saturday afternoon we went to Michael's Great Uncle's birthday party and Sunday we went to Bass Pro Shop. Here are a few pictures from the weekend. Enjoy!

Brady sitting and playing Friday afternoon. Whit & Brady Saturday afternoon. They weren't too happy in these pictures.
Michael's grandaddy, Uncle John, and Brady & Whit. By the way, Uncle John turned 82! I hope I look that good when I turn 82.

Whit (front) & Brady (back) at Bass Pro Shop.
This is in front of the aquarium. Can you see the fish above Michael's head?
Whit looking back at Brady.
Whit trying to drink my sweet tea at Applebee's.
We had a great weekend, and I'm sad that it has to end. I am already looking forward to this Friday afternoon. Hope you all have a good week!

TIGERS in Training

2008-08-10T16:40:00.002-05:00

Uncle Ricky and Aunt Lynn bought these cute outfits for the boys. Lynn said when she saw them, she couldn't resist and had to buy them for Whit & Brady. It says "Tiger in Training." I'm looking forward to the future football seasons. I'm hoping now I will have somebody to watch football with!!!
War Eagle!

I Survived!!!

2008-08-10T10:59:00.000-05:00

I survived the first week back to work! It was a long week, but a very busy week. The kids first day back to school was Friday, so I felt like my tongue was hanging out of my mouth by the end of the day. Again, I can't express how Blessed I am for Mama Jane keeping the boys. It is so nice to have her to come in the mornings and be here in the afternoons. It is truly a Blessing!

I have a very busy week ahead. It will be the first full week with the kids, plus I start my last two courses for my master's degree. I will be in Montgomery on Monday & Wednesday's from 4:30 - 6:40, and the other course is online. Both of these courses are 8 weeks. I think I have lost my mind to try to do this, but I'm going to give it my best (whatever that may be). Again, Michael will have the boys by himself two nights a week! So I'm not for sure who you should pray for the most - me or him. Wish us luck for the next 8 weeks!!!

Lake Martin

2008-08-03T23:21:00.000-05:00

We decided to go to Lake Martin for the weekend. Michael's Aunt Brenda and Uncle Lee have a house there and we haven't been in a very long time. We use to go almost every weekend after we first go married. We knew the boys would have a great time playing in the water and visiting everybody. We had a really great time and didn't want to go home, but I had to get home to get ready for my big day - back to work. Here are a few pictures from the weekend.

This is Whit with Dusty (Kelley and Trent's golden retriever). This is the sweetest dog. I don't know who was happier, Whit or Dusty. In the picture below you see the other dogs with Whit. They couldn't resist, they had to join in on the baby lov'n, and Whit loved every bit of it. By the way, Brady is not in the pictures because he was a sleep.

Whit in the lake for the first time.

Brady - I think he was having fun. What do you think?
These were our babysitters for the weekend. Alex and Avery are the twin girls in our family and their brother Ridge. Alex is holding Brady. Avery is holding Whit and Ridge is in the middle. The boys LOVED these girls and Ridge.
We had so much fun!!!

Work, Work, Work!!!

2008-07-31T12:04:00.000-05:00

Well, I go back to work Monday, August 4, 2008. I'm feeling a lot of emotions about this next step in my life and the boys' lives. I knew before I was pregnant that if we ever had any children that I would have to go back to work. However, I guess I didn't realize how hard it was going to be. The past 7 months have been amazing! I have learned so much about myself that I would have never known if it weren't for those two precious little boys. I have tried to cherish each and every moment that I have with them, even the hectic and stressful times.

Even though I'm having to go back to work, I have so many things to be thankful for.
1. I am thankful that Whit & Brady are healthy and happy little boys.

2. I am thankful for having the opportunity to be a mother. There was a time that I didn't think that I would ever be one.

3. I am thankful for the time that I have had with them. Most mothers have to go back to work when the baby is only 6-8 weeks old. I have had 7 months with them. Actually, 45 of those days they were in the NICU but very thankful they did not have to stay any longer than that.

4. I am thankful that we have Mama Jane coming to my house to keep them. She loves them as if they were her own grandchildren. She takes pictures and videos them all the time. Most importantly, she loves and spoils them rotten!

5. I am thankful for my family and friends and their continuous support.

Michael has reminded me, on more than one occasion, that I can do this. As he has said, if I have been able to get through all that we have had to endure, then this is just another stepping stone. I hate to admit it but he is right. I think back on all the stuff I had to go through just to get pregnant, then having to leave them in the NICU for 45 days. It has been tough, but ALL so worth it!!!

Here are some of my favorite pictures from the past 7 months!

Li'l Stinkers

2008-07-27T20:54:00.004-05:00

Are these not the cutest pictures?
We have always called the boys Little Stinker Butts, so when I found these onezies at Target I had to buy them. And you may wonder why we call them Stinker Butts. Well, the picture below explains everything. Tonight Whit went to sleep first, then Brady. Well, Brady had been a sleep about 30 minutes and we heard him fussing a little bit. When I went in to check on him, he had rolled over on his back. I put him back on his stomach (yes, I know, they should sleep on their back) and he was still fussing and would not go back to sleep. So guess where he ended up for the next hour? Yes, that is right, in our bed. In the picture you see Brady in our bed with one of our blankets wrapped around his head. I couldn't resist taking a picture because I said to him ,"You li'l Stinker Butt, you are so spoiled rotten!" Now, you know why their nicknames are Little Sinker Butts.

Today, they are 7 months old. They are getting so big and doing new things everyday. Here are a few pictures.

Update

2008-07-24T23:43:00.005-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I posted about a few "Early Arrivals." Today, I found out that there is a blog for Kadra Parkman's little girl (Raley). I am going to add it to my Blog list, so we can keep up with her progress. Also, I hope that you are keeping up with the Killingsworth blog on little Laurie. She is having a tough time right now, so please keep both of these little ones in your thoughts and prayers.

Our new addition to our house

2008-07-17T12:30:00.001-05:00

We have been working on our new carport / Michael's hunting cabin get-away. It has been a slow process for a few reasons. (1.) Michael isn't a carpenter so our friends are helping. (2.) It is really HOT. (3.) Hello, it is summer time, which means going to the lake, river, and/or beach on the weekends.
It is going to be really nice when we do get it completed. Michael is going to put all of his hunting stuff out there, plus a grill and swing. I'm already enjoying my new big carport. Now my doors don't hit the post when I open them. Here are a few before and after pictures so far.

Early Arrivals!!!

2008-07-13T15:23:00.001-05:00

Mutual friends of ours through family members have had some scary events the past few days. Friday morning Kadra Parkman, who was 29 weeks pregnant, starting having seizures. The doctors had no other choice but to deliver the baby girl. She weighed 2 pounds and 4 ounces, and I'm not for sure about her length. When Michael called me Friday morning and told me this, all of those emotions from our experience of delivering early and NICU time came rushing back to me. It is an unbelievable scary time and I, we, could not have made it through without all the prayers and support from family and friends. So this brings me to the next introduction.

A few days ago, I ran across this blog while I was surfing and exploring others' blogs. This blog is for a very special little girl (Laurie Ann Killingsworth) who was born on June 28, 2008, at 23 weeks and 6 days. She weighed 1 pound & 8 ounces. I've been keeping up with her progress through the Killingsworth's blog. It amazes me how strong little babies are and how strong the mama's and daddy's are through such frightening times. Now this brings me to the next topic, which is our story of our little early arrivals!

For those of you that don't know our story, I will try to give you the short version of the birth of our beautiful baby boys.
First, I have to start by telling you that these two little boys were miracle babies before they were even born. Why are they such miracle babies? Because they are IVF babies or what some would call "test tube babies." We were able to see them as embryos before they were transferred to me. It is astonishing what they can do now! I am so thankful that they can do these amazing things.

Now to the birth of these miracle babies . . . I had to go to Baptist South on Monday, Dec. 24. Yep, Christmas Eve. I was starting to dilate and have contractions, so Dr. Lawhon met us there and made the decision to start me on magnesium sulfate to stop the contractions and further dilation. If you have never been on this medication, you should feel very lucky because it is horrible. The medicine does what it is supposed to do, but the side effects are indescribable. It was really tough being on that medicine and having to be there on Christmas, but I was willing to do whatever it took to keep those babies from being born. I was also given the steroid shots to help with the development of their lungs. By Wednesday 12/26/07, I had not dilated anymore and my contractions had stopped. So we thought we might be out of the woods until Thursday afternoon. My blood pressure was soaring and my blood work was starting to show signs of toxemia, so Dr. Lawhon decided that it would be best on me and the babies to deliver. Therefore, at 29 weeks and 6 days Brady Robert and Whitman Glover were born on Thursday, Dec. 27, 2007, at 7:35 pm and 7:36 pm. Whitman weighed 3.9 and Brady weighed 3.5. They were both 15 inches long. When they were delivered, they both cried out and were breathing on their own. What a miracle!!! But that was only the beginning of their 45 day stay in the NICU at Baptist South. The boys had a few ups and downs but the hardest thing was for them to learn to eat on their own. We finally were able to bring them home Feb. 10, 2008.

Our experience with having preemie babies has been (and still is sometimes) very emotional. Having a baby is a big responsibility, but when you have two babies in the NICU who are so tiny is not just a big responsibility but is very, very scary. The not knowing what is going to happen next, and the changes from hour to hour, and talking to nurses and doctors, and then keeping your family and friends up to date with their progress. It is just a lot to have to handle. But we learned very early on that you just have to take it hour by hour and then day by day.

I guess the reason I'm writing this is because I want you to know how important it is to have support and prayers from family, friends, and even strangers. I remember when I use to go see the boys, I would tell them "you have so many people that love you and are praying for you that haven't even seen you yet. You, we, are so so Blessed." Michael and I will never forget these emotional moments. I still have them now. I think parents with preemies share a bond that most parents do not because we understand what each other is or was going through. I'm also going to include Footprints Ministry on my friends & family list because they are a great support group through the NICU.

I'm sorry this was so long but I just felt the need to write about our experience, along with the two other families and their babies. Please keep them in your prayers!

This picture is of Whit the day after he was born.

This is Brady the day after he was born.

This picture was taken the day we brought them home. Whit on the left and Brady on the right.

This was taken at the beach June 30. Whit on left and Brady on right

We have a lot to be thankful for!!!

6 Months Check-up

2008-07-10T22:42:00.001-05:00

Monday, July 7 the boys had their 6 months check-up and had to get three shots. They are really growing! Brady now weighs 15.1 pounds and Whit weighs 13.1 pounds. There is a little weight difference between the two, but Whit has always spit up more. We are changing their formula so I hope that will help. Here are some recent pictures.

This picture was taken this morning after they had their morning bottle in Mama & Daddy's bed. Ssshhh, don't tell anybody!

Whit (left) Brady (right)

This is Brady in his jumper. He loves being in his jumper. He thinks he is a big boy! Look at those little rolls on those legs!
I took this picture this morning while I was feeding Brady. This is Scooter and Whit. Whit was petting Scooter for the first time. Scooter didn't mind at all. Actually, I think he was kind of enjoying it.

One more thing, we would like to wish Grandma Pat a happy birthday! It was yesterday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY Grandma Pat! We love you!!! Michael, Wendy, Whit, & Brady

4th of July Vacation

2008-07-06T15:43:00.002-05:00

Michael had the week off for the 4th of July. It has been so nice to have his extra help throughout the day. We have spent a lot of family time together, and we are going to miss him Monday when he has to go back to work. Here are a few pictures from the week but I don't have any of the deep sea fishing trip that Micheal went on Tuesday & Wednesday.

Here is Brady all played out in his saucer.

Whit & Brady

Whit helping Daddy reloading shotgun shells.

Brady helping Daddy reloading shotgun shells.

The three following pictures are of only Brady because Whit was a sleep.

Brady riding the mule with Great Grandaddy and Daddy.

Brady with Grandma & Heather

Brady with Great Grandaddy

Brady & Whit with David & Heather (friends, no more like family, from Georgia)

Brady sitting up by himself.

Whit sleeping again at the beach.

Whit. Isn't he so cute when he is awake!

A Weekend of FUN!!! June 27-30

2008-07-03T22:51:00.001-05:00

My brother Ricky got married this past weekend at Pensacola Beach, so this was the boys' first trip to the beach. They were so good. They enjoyed being the center of attention and playing in the water. We left Friday night and got back Monday afternoon. Here are some pictures from the weekend. Actually, there are a lot of pictures but I couldn't leave out some of these - they are so cute!

Whit slept through the wedding, so we didn't get very many good ones of him. This is my dad holding Brady and Lucy holding the umbrella to keep the sun off the boys.

My mother and David with Ricky and Lynn.

My Dad and Lucy with Ricky and Lynn

Brent, Ricky, Lynn, and Emily

The Morris brothers with their better halves - Mandi and Sabrina

My dad holding Brady and Lucy holding Whit (he finally woke up).

Our first time at the beach to play in the water.

I had to include this picture.
Michael, please be careful with my boys.

I think I was having more fun than the boys were. They were memorized by the water.

Brotherly Love.

So Sweet!!!

I borrowed this picture from Mandi's blog.

The Morris family, the Jones family, & the Smith family

Our 10 Year Anniversary!

2008-06-27T00:01:00.001-05:00

I can't believe we have been married 10 years already! Time has really flown by so fast. It seems like just yesterday we were getting married and planning our future together. Now that I look back over the years, we have gone through a lot together, not just the two of us but with both of our families. Here are a few things that we have experienced together over the last ten years:

Mexico; New York City; the lost of grandparents and family members; my parents divorcing and remarrying; graduating from AUM; my first teaching experience; getting our first dog (Maggie Ann); duck, goose, & quail hunting; canoeing; buying a new house and a new horse trailer; losing two horses (Princess & Dixie); surgeries; birthdays; holidays; night classes for my master's degree; and probably our biggest obstacle so far - going through infertility, and then being Blessed with two precious baby boys.

I could keep going, but you get the idea. We have lived life together for the past 10 years and have been there for each other. We couldn't do it with out the love and support for each other. We are very lucky to have each other and have such a strong relationship. Yes, we have arguments just like all couples, but we don't forget what is most important - that we have each other! Michael, I LOVE you! I'm the luckiest person in the whole world and I look forward to spending the rest of my life with you! You are not only my bestfriend and husband, but also a wonderful father to our boys! I can't wait to see what the next 10 years of our lives brings us.

June 27, 1998

Christmas Pictures 12/10/07

This post wouldn't be complete without including our boys. Today, they are 6 months old. I can't believe how they have grown! Brady is on the left and Whit on the right.

Happy Birthday, Michael!

2008-06-17T00:00:00.001-05:00

June 17 - What a wonderful day it is! Michael is turning 31! I hope you have a great day. You deserve it!

We LOVE you!!! Wendy, Whit, Brady, and family

Michael and his mother.
Michael and his granny.
Michael and Whit

Michael, his granddaddy, & Trent
Michael with Maggie and Dave with Reese
Michael and Maggie
Michael with Belle

Can you tell that Michael loves to hunt? Especially, ducks and geese!!

One of Michael's closest friends' birthday (Hardy) was yesterday, and his wife, Tracee, had a surprise birthday dinner for him at Bonefish Grill in Montgomery last night. I took these pictures last night and couldn't resist posting them with Michael's.

Hardy with his birthday cake and hat!

Hardy, Chris, & Michael

Happy Birthday!!!

Happy Father's Day

2008-06-15T00:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Father's Day to the best Dad ever!!! This is a very special Father's Day for Michael. This is his first Father's Day. This time last year, we did not know if we were ever going to be parents or not. But we are so Blessed.
Michael is the best Dad ever to Whit and Brady. He is truly a "Super Dad." He takes care of the boys on Tuesday and Thursday nights all by himself. I'm working on my master's degree and have classes two nights a week. He is so awesome. He takes care of these two precious baby boys by himself with no help from any one. That means he has to give them baths and bottles and puts them down for the night. I don't know many dads who would take this job on by themselves, especially with twins who are almost six months old. Michael, you deserve an award. Better yet Whit and Brady have a message for you.

Dear Daddy,
We are so lucky to have a daddy like you. Thank you for loving us and taking care of us. You even change our stinky diapers without complaining. We can't wait until we get big enough to be able to go hunting with you. We know you will teach us everything you know. Thanks Daddy. We LOVE you.
Whit and Brady

This is a picture of us holding the boys for the first time after they were born. A few weeks later.
And a few more weeks later after they were home.

Brady is on the Daddy Couch before bath time.These are the boys' five month pictures.

Happy Father's Day to all the Dads! It is really a special day.

One Year Ago . . .

2008-06-10T05:00:00.002-05:00

It's hard to believe that one year ago today our boys were conceived. Not many people can say they know the exact day their children were conceived, but we can because of IVF. This time last year we were heading to Birmingham for my egg retrieval and five days later (June 15) two embryos (Whit & Brady) were transferred to me. I remember the doctor talking to us before the transfer. She said now you know if you become pregnant there will be a 60% chance that it will be twins. We had heard this same speech before. We just wanted a baby. On Friday, June 29, 2007, we found out that I was finally pregnant. I think that was one of the happiest days of our entire lives! That is until Whit and Brady were born. I could keep going on and on, but the main reason why I wanted to post is to say . . . when you think that it can't and won't happen, just keep praying and have faith because God does listen! Look what He gave us, and I thank Him everyday for our miracle baby boys!!!

Jane's First Day!

2008-06-03T22:07:00.000-05:00

Today was Jane Pierce's first day keeping the boys. It was a very hard and long day for me. I had to leave this morning at 7:30 because I had to go to a workshop in Troy. When the workshop was over, I had to drive to Montgomery to go to class; plus, I didn't get home until 10 pm, and they were already in bed, so I can't hold them and love on them until morning. Overall, I think I did really well. I only called three times to check on them. I know Jane is going to do a great job with the boys. She already loves them and is spoiling them rotten. She even brought her camera today so she could take pictures of them. We are very blessed to have her!!! It is going to be so wonderful not to have to take them to daycare everyday. Thanks Jane! We already LOVE you so much!!!

5 Month Pictures

2008-06-01T16:44:00.005-05:00

Here are a few pictures of the boys. It's hard to believe that they are already 5 months old. They are growing and changing so fast!

This is my favorite picture!! Brady

Whit
Brady
Whit
Whit (left) and Brady (right)

Sex and the City

2008-05-30T23:00:00.001-05:00

AWESOME! A group of my girlfriends went to the opening of Sex and the City Friday night and it was awesome. The theatre was full of fashionably dressed women eagerly waiting to watch this highly anticipated movie. I think very few left that theatre disappointed. If you have not seen it yet, you need to go see it as soon as possible. Feel free to leave a comment if you have seen it. Remember, you can leave a message as anonymous just put your name in the comment area.

Cool Dudes!

2008-05-28T11:30:00.000-05:00

Grandma and Grandaddy bought the boys some sunglasses the other day. They will be cool dudes this summer wearing them outside. They are so cute I just had to share the picture with you guys.
Whit is on the left and Brady on the right. I can't believe how big they are getting!
I also wanted to include this picture of them sleeping together. I took this picture in the morning when they had slept through the night. I think it's getting time to separate them and put them in their own beds!

War Eagle!!!

2008-05-13T13:07:00.003-05:00

Here are our future Auburn Tigers!!! Whit is in the first picture and Brady is in the second one.

Four Month Check up!!!

Their 4 month check up was last week. Brady now weighs 11.9 and is 23 1/2 inches long. Whit is 10.15 and is 24 inches long. When they were born Brady weighed 3.5 and Whit weighed 3.9. I can't believe how much they have grown!

Sweet Lucy Supper Club

2008-04-29T11:32:00.008-05:00

I'm a member of the Sweet Lucy Supper Club. It is a group of girls who get together at least once a month for supper, gossip, insanity, and fun. We have secret Sweet Lucy Pal's who we buy gifts for each month unless it's a special theme. For example, we did not buy gifts this month because most of us had to buy something special for our costumes (we were supposed to dress in character).

This month our hostesses were Joy Rogers and Jennifer Skipper and their theme was Dancing with Death. This is what the invitation said . . . Dai Rektor has hit the big time! Not only has he just 'discovered' his latest act, Joanna Dance who stands to make him millions, but he has just married his 19 year old 5th wife, Dolly Dee-Cup. His friends and business associates are gathered to see Joanna's first gig when disaster strike! Dai is found dead, slumped against his desk with the unsigned contract! Was it a heart attack? Was it suicide? Or, as many suspect, was it murder?

We were given a list of the characters with a description of who they were, and what they should look like, and what to wear for the night; and we would find out the rest of the details at the party.

Here's the list of characters and who they were:
Joanna Dance - Christy B. (pop star) Busty Brushetta - Elliemae (Italian Dancer)
Betty Will - Christy L. (underwriter) Ann Calsox - Joy (backup dancer)
Carrie Oakey - Michelle (backup singer) Eve Hill - Stephanie (lead guitarist)
Ruth Liss - Cindy (journalist covering the event) Clara Nett - Jennifer Stringer (classical pianist)
Celia Fate - Trish (party girl) Faye Slift - Jennifer Skipper (plastic surgeon)
Lou Pole - Wendy (lawyer)

Unfortunately, not everyone was able to attend the party so a few of us had to fill in for the characters of Jackie Pott (lottery winner), Danielle Sound (agent and scout), and Robyn Emblind (PA to Joanna).

Below is a group picture.

Elliemae and Stephanie
Christy L., Michelle, Elliemae, Trish, & Jennifer Stringer
Joy, Stephanie, & Cindy
Elliemae, me, & Trish. Can you believe Elliemae being black headed and me being a blonde?

Thanks Joy and Jennifer! We had a great time. It's always fun dressing up like some one different. I can't wait to see what you guys come up with next year.

Visit to Andalusia

2008-04-24T16:45:00.004-05:00

Tuesday the boys and I decided to go visit my mother in Andalusia, and instead of a day trip, we decided to make it our first overnight trip there. That afternoon and night we had several visitors. Uncle Dave and Aunt Mandi stopped by to help spoil them a little bit more. Stephanie, Lamar, and Helena also stopped by for a visit. I can't believe how big Helena is now. She was so small when I kept her last summer. In the picture below, Helena is trying to give Brady his pacifier while Step is feeding Whit. Uncle Dave holding Brady and Aunt Mandi holding Whit.
Brady (left); Whit (right)

Surgery Update

2008-04-21T11:01:00.002-05:00

We left Greenville Thursday afternoon around 4:00 and arrived at our hotel in Birmingham around 6:30. Michael's parents and my mom and David also stayed at the hotel. The boys did really good staying in a hotel for the first time. I thought they rested fairly decent being some where different. Friday morning we arrived at Children's Hospital about 5:15. We were the first on the list. After we checked in and went through all of the processing of being admitted, they took Brady back about 7:30. Then at 9:00 the doctor came out and said everything went great. She was very pleased with the surgery. I think the worst part of everything was the waiting in the recovery room. When we went back to see Brady, he was awake and doing great. However, we had to stay back there for over 3 hours because we were waiting on a room. It was crazy. Thank goodness that grandparents were with us to take care of Whit for us. I think it was around 2:00 when we finally got into a room. Brady was a real trooper. He wasn't fussy or uncomfortable. He took his bottle and went right to sleep. Whit stayed with Michael's parents at the hotel that night. They said he was a little angel the whole time. We got home about 2:00 Saturday afternoon. I have to say both boys did really great. Brady is doing so good. You would never know that he had surgery. Thanks for all of your thoughts and prayers for us during this time!!!

Some Pictures

2008-04-13T16:17:00.007-05:00

It seems like it has been awhile since I have posted some pictures of the boys. So this post has an assortment of pictures of the boys with family and hanging around the house. I hope you enjoy viewing. Also, Brady's surgery is scheduled for Friday, April 18 @ Children's Hospital in Birmingham. Please remember to keep us in your thoughts and prayers

I normally start with pictures of the boys, but this time, I thought I would start with Maggie and Belle. Here they are chillin on the chase.
This is Brady relaxing on the Daddy Couch before bath time.

Is this not the cutest smile ever!!! By the way, this is Brady.
This is Walker (2 yrs. old) pulling the boys to the barn in their wagon.
Gramps (my dad) holding Brady.
Gramps holding Whit and Grand nan (stepmother) holding Brady.
Brady after a bath.

Whit after a bath.

Brady (left) and Whit (right) getting ready for bed time. Grandaddy (Michael's dad) holding the boys.
Tim & Debbie (friends from Georgia) holding the boys.

A Sick Baby Boy

2008-04-09T12:37:00.007-05:00

Monday evening, about 7:00, Brady started fussing really bad. He wouldn't eat his cereal or his bottle, bath time didn't even calm him down. So about 10 pm we called the doctor. She said to give him some Tylenol to help relax him, so we did. He was not running a fever at that time, he was just extremely fussy. He would lay on my chest and try to sleep but would cry out every five minutes. He finally relaxed a little and dozed off about midnight. Then at 1:30 he was crying again. This time he had a fever (100.5), so we called the doctor again. I know we were probably over reacting, but we knew something was wrong. Plus, being a first time parent, we really didn't know what to do. Anyway, we gave him some more Tylenol, and we were at the doctor's office when they opened. He did not have an ear infection, but we found out today that he has a urinary track infection. He will start antibiotics today and will take them for 10 days. He is doing much better today. When he was in his swing this morning, he was smiling at me when I was talking to him. Thank goodness, Whit is doing fine. The past few days have been stressful but things are much better!! It's very hard having a sick baby boy!

Doctor's Appointment, April 2

2008-04-03T15:29:00.003-05:00

We went to the doctor Wednesday for Whit and Brady's 3 month check up and RSV shots. Brady now weighs 9.4. He weighed 3.5 when he was born.

Whit now weighs 9.1, and he weighed 3.9 when he was born. It looks like Brady has finally caught up with Whit, at least for now.
The doctor also gave them a prescription for Zantac. She said they were showing some signs of reflux, so, hopefully, this will help them with their eating.

After their doctor's visit, I met my mother at Target. This was their first trip out to a store, so, of course, I had to take a picture. You can't see them in their car seats, but they are really in there. They were really good, but I was paranoid about people coming up to them to want to see them. Luckily, there weren't many people that tried to see them.
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Our 1st Camping trip with the Boys!!!

2008-04-03T14:58:00.003-05:00

This past weekend we took the boys on their first camping trip at three months old. We camped at Michael's Uncle Lee's pond with Grandma, Grandaddy, Great-Grandma, and Great-Grandaddy. Of course, Maggie Ann and Belle was with us too. Overall, I think it was a great weekend. The boys were a little fussy at night, but they enjoyed being outside during the day. Here are a few pictures from the weekend.

Whit and Brady in their pack-n-play Friday afternoon.
Whit and Brady in their wagon at the pond with Maggie Ann and Belle.
This is Skylar, our neighbor's little girl, who is four months old. She and Brady are chilling out.
This picture was taken Saturday. It got a little hot that afternoon, so they were able to be real little boys dressed only in their diapers . . . so cute!

Children's Hospital

2008-03-31T10:36:00.003-05:00

This past Thursday we had to take Brady to Children's Hospital in Birmingham for a consult on his hernia. He will be having surgery Friday, April 18. I think this is going to be a lot harder on mom and dad than it will be on him. Dr. Saito is his doctor, and she said he should bounce back with no problems. They will keep him over night for observation because he was a preemie. Our plans are to stay in Birmingham Thursday night because surgery will be so early, and, of course, we will stay in the hospital with him Friday night. Also, we plan for Whit to be with us. Dr. Saito said that siblings can stay in the same room with the patient. I can't imagine separating them for two nights, so we plan to do this as a family. Once again, please keep us in your prayers and thoughts during this upcoming event.

First Easter

2008-03-24T14:30:00.002-05:00

Here are a few pictures of the boys on Easter. We went to my mother's house in Andalusia for the first time with the boys. They seemed to enjoy seeing some of their family.

This is Uncle Chad holding Brady for the first time.
Here are Uncle Ricky and Aunt Lynn holding Brady and Whit for the first time.
Brady. These outfits are a little big on them.
Whit
Whit and Brady

Park & Wagon

2008-03-19T14:33:00.003-05:00

Sunday we went to Sherling Lake to get me out of the house. It was a beautiful day, and the boys seemed to enjoy being out - they slept the whole time. I was glad to be outside and out of the house. We walked about a mile around the camp ground and pond. Michael got a workout pushing them around.

We put them in their John Deer Wagon that was a gift from Michael's Uncle Lee and Aunt Brenda. Michael's mother made the pillows for the wagon. Again, they slept while we pulled them around the yard. I think this wagon will come in handy as they get older.

Whit is on the left and Brady on the right.

4 Wheeler Pictures

2008-03-15T14:42:00.002-05:00

This was their first 4 wheeler ride with Daddy the other afternoon. Whit seemed to like it. He was awake for the ride, but Brady just couldn't seem to open his eyes.

This is Whit enjoying the ride with Dad.

Brady with Daddy.

And I couldn't leave out Maggie Ann and Belle. Belle is 9 months old and is bigger than her mama.

First Post

2008-03-13T17:23:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!

We our going to try the blog thing since it seems the "in" thing to do now. I'm not going to promise anything, but I will try to keep an update at least once a week. Michael will probably be better at this than me.

As you all know, our miracle boys were born Dec. 27, 2007. They had to stay in the NICU for 45 days. They came home Feb. 10 and are keeping me very busy! They are doing great. They had their 2 month shots March 5. I think it hurt me more than it hurt them. Here are some pictures that were taken for their 2 month pictures 2/27/08. I'll try to post more current ones over the weekend.

Meet Whitman Glover Smith, our first born. He weighed 3.9 when he was born. On March 5, he weighed 6.15.

Meet Brady Robert Smith. He weighed 3.5 when he was born, and on March 5 he weighed 6.7.

We would like to thank all of you who kept us in your thoughts and prayers! You'll never know how much it has meant to us to know that we are so loved!!