Our Crazy Life

Big changes...

2009-07-23T15:04:00.002-05:00

Jackson's big boy room!

We've gotten lots of use from the shelf that my Dad, Jackson's Grand dad, made for him. It's a little challenging to keep it tidy!

Jackson loves his big boy bed!

25 weeks along...

27 weeks along...

4th of July 2009

2009-07-10T18:09:00.003-05:00

Happy Independence Day!

My silly goose

Taken at our pond

25 weeks along...

Jackson loves talking about "his" baby!

Christmas 2008

2008-12-30T10:45:00.004-06:00

This Christmas was a lot of fun for Jackson. He talked about Santa Claus and would even pretend to talk to him on the phone about presents and his reindeer. But, sitting in his lap was another story (as you'll see below!).

On our way to Zoo Lights at the Gulf Breeze Zoo.

Sporting his Christmas outfit the Sunday before Christmas.

Showing us the tree. He cried when we took it down a few days ago!!

Waiting in line to see Santa. He was excited!

We thought Ayla would be the one to cry, so Amy wanted a picture of her by the tree just in case. She sat with Santa and even played peek-a-boo!

Before the melt down...

Here it is...Mommy and Santa laughing at Jackson repeating, "no, no, no..,"

Christmas Eve in our pjs.

Here is our family photo...

Jackson loves the coat his Grandad and Grammy sent him!

The wheels on the bus...

TJ Berrytales kept their attention for a while...

Jackson's very own dvd player from Aunt Amy and Uncle Brett. Bet you can't guess what movie he's watching...Yes, Polar Express.

Santa came!

He was so excited about these tools. He brought every tool to us and said, "what's that?" We'd tell him, then he'd repeat and bring us another! (Pardon the diaper, it was warm!)

Santa also brought him a dump truck...

Jackson Eli tuns 2!

2008-12-09T16:29:00.007-06:00

Jackson had a great birthday this year! He is blessed to have such loving and giving family and friends!

Jackson was so excited to see what was in this box from his Gran dad and Grammy.

This has to be one of the favorite faces that Jackson makes!

The biggest book ever! From his Nana and Pops

Jackson has better cook ware than I do!! From his Gigi

Nana and Gigi (my grandmother) before Jackson party at the park.

My mom and I chillin' before the kids arrived

Our first family photo with a 2 year old!!

Jackson taking Nana to swing

Grandma (or Mama, as Jackson says)

Jackson dragging Ayla around (or trying to!). She's gotten to where she'll say no and get her hand out of his grip!

We did this same pose last year. It's amazing how quick the kids have grown!(Too bad the kids aren't looking at the camera!)

Ayla, the Blue Angel Pilot

He loves to swing!

Amy and Ayla

Hangin' with Mommy

Blowing out his candle with a little help from us!

Daddy and Jax sharing a cup cake

Jackson got up right before this picture was taken, so Alexandra sat as close as she could to block him in!!

Ayla, Victoria, Taylor holding Libby, Jordan, Joshua, Braylon, Luke, Jackson and Alexandra.

A Busy Weekend!

2008-10-25T16:44:00.009-05:00

What a busy weekend we've had! Friday night We went with the Napiers to downtown Milton for Ghost Walk. Ghost Walk is a tour of the downtown area with true stories from history. There is a cast of characters, all dressed in period costumes, reenacting scenes and telling stories of the past. The kids did well for their ages...Jackson wanted to talk during the guides stories, and he kept pointing to him saying, "man!" We all took turns passing kids and pushing strollers! We each learned a lot about specific stops, but I don't think we all heard everything that was said. At one point Amy said she needed an outline! Jackson was "Mr. Personality" for most of the night. He would say things like, "yeah" and clap for the pirates shooting cannons and "oh no" and "no, Yankees" to the Yankees burning homes and lumber. Ayla was pretty quiet until the very end during a story about cows eating the grass in peoples yards and she said, "no, no cows" and "moooooo!"

It was a little chilly, so we bundled up!

We were laughing about her silly hat!

Amy and Ayla by a fountain downtown.
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TRUNK OR TREAT!!!

This afternoon we took the kids to our Church's Fall Festival. Jackson was a cowboy and Ayla a cowgirl. People decorate the trunks of their cars and hand out candy! It's a fun event for the kids and tiring for the adults! I brought Jackson's wagon so that we wouldn't have to chase the kids around. They didn't give us a hard time about staying in it; they happily ate their suckers and didn't have a lot to say. It's funny to see Jackson-Mr. Chatterbox-quiet around strangers!

Mr. Cowboy doing his own thing instead of posing for a picture.

Cheese!

Here's where he started to lose his hearing for his parent's voices.

Jackson wants to make sure Ayla doesn't have something better!

Braylon, or Bam Bam!

About to trunk or treat...

Cowboys and Indians

I can't believe that every picture I got, both kids have suckers...at least Jackson wasn't screaming, which is what he was doing 20 seconds before this picture!

Ayla is a good sharer!

This horse was a hit with the kids.

More Pictures

2008-10-19T16:45:00.004-05:00

Here are a few pictures from our last beach trip. This was the first time Ayla has been able to walk on the beach. She was a little concerned at first, and didn't want me to put her down. But after she got a taste of freedom, she was ready to swim! We went to the sound inside of the gulf so the kids had more room to run. The waves are not very big and neither of the kids were afraid to get in. In fact, Ayla walked in chest deep and then sat down. She was not at all concerned about the jellyfish that were looming around her!

I have also included a few others from last night...

Collecting shells

Jackson feeding Ayla goldfish.

First steps in the sand. You can tell that she is a little apprehensive!

What a good smile!!

Jackson running up to the camera

Grandma Sherry holding on to the kids and watching for jellyfish.

This picture makes us laugh! He will crawl up on the couch, put his hands behind his head and yell, "Einsteins!" (aka Little Einsteins, a Disney show that he absolutely loves)

Here are our monsters eating a grilled cheese. Ayla had her feet propped up on her tray and Jackson was chillin'!

Is this a mischievous face or what???

Taken at Blackwater River in Downtown Milton.

A fun picture before church!

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-19T15:38:00.004-05:00

Saturday afternoon we piled in the van and took a short trip near Brewton, Alabama to a pumpkin farm. They own several acres of land where they have horses, ponies, a donkey, watermelons, corn and pumpkins. It's a really neat place. The kids enjoyed running (literally) up and down the road and they liked seeing the animals. Jackson tried to get Ayla to hold his hand while they walked around, but she was not having it! Now that she is walking, she has her own mind and is pretty stubborn when you try to change it! He drug her around a bit, as you'll see in the pictures. We took 350 shots and ended up with a few good ones. These days picture time is not so fun for the parents! We ended up with a lot of the sides of their faces and worse, the back of their heads as they struggled to get away from us. Gone are the days of singing a song to get them to laugh.

This is one of the sweetest horse I've ever met!

I've always heard that Shetland ponies are mean, so I was afraid to let the kids get close. But, they were able to pet the stinky animals without incident!

Ayla saying "hi" to the ponies!

Typical...Jackson climbing the fence!

This is really sweet!

Here's Jackson trying to get Ayla to, "Come on!"

She obliges, just for a minute!

After we got back in the car, I felt like I had been calf wresting! One of us had the camera and a child by the hand while the other was running after the other child. It was worth it though; the kids had a blast and so did we!

These boots are made for walking!

2008-09-04T16:01:00.003-05:00

When Justin was Jackson's age he had a pair of boots that he wore everywhere. Sherry says that he loved them!! We decided to see if Jackson would like them as much as his daddy did. Well, he didn't!! He acted weird, like they were heavy or something. They are a little big, so maybe when they fit better he will be "big stuff" like his daddy was!

All of these were taken on Jack and Sherry's front porch and in front of their tractor in the yard. They have a great house for picture taking, with so many perfect back drops!

This is one of my favorites!

He put the hat on himself, can you tell?

2 fairly new videos...

2008-07-24T13:05:00.004-05:00

Jackson ran around and around pushing this toy, so I finally grabbed my camera in time to see him running while drinking his juice. He likes to chase Hazel, and she is so patient with him! She lays down until he finds her, then she will come find me to try to hide. I got a laugh so I thought I'd share!

I just thought this was a cute, short video of my sweet boy! Ignore the fishing pole in the back and the annoying mommy talking!!

Up close with Jax

2008-06-28T21:00:00.003-05:00

A Pirates Life For Me...

2008-06-28T20:38:00.010-05:00

Last weekend our friends Corina and Jed had a birthday party for their 3 year old, Braylon. It was a pirate themed party complete with gold coins, eye patches, and a buried treasure full of dirt cake!! The kids had a lot of fun playing with Bray's toys and his new choo-choo train. We all sat around the train tracks for the longest time watching the train go 'round and 'round!

Jackson needs one of these "bad boys!"

My little pirate...

"Arrrrr"

2 hats are better than 1!

Jackson loves the babies!

Luke and Ayla were born a day apart. They will turn 1 in August.

This picture took some work! Grandpa Jack showed Ayla how to take hats off, which in this case applied to hats and eye patches!

Luke, on the other hand, didn't mind the patch!

Too cute video of Ayla

2008-06-15T18:49:00.004-05:00

We went to the beach last week to celebrate Jack and Sherry's anniversary. The kids had a blast playing in the sand and water. Ayla was too funny sitting in the tide. She would laugh and splash every time the water came over her. This video is only a few seconds of what she did the entire time! She would even crawl toward the water, but didn't stop when she go close. It was so cute!

Happy Father's Day

2008-06-15T18:12:00.010-05:00

This morning I kept the house quiet (or tried) so that Justin could sleep in. I made him breakfast and served it to him in bed with a side of a "cartoon free" morning! Jackson brought his Daddy a card and said, "happy Dada day!" It was a good day!

A father's day picture taken before church.

Jackson's new trick...using this toy to crawl over the couch. He is also giving Daddy his new look.

Up and over the couch successfully!

It's hurricane season! Life on the water is tough. Life jackets must be worn at all times!!

The kids in the pool at the compound.

Here's the new look. For a few days, it's the only look we got!!

Here it is again, on a different day! Justin and Amy agree that it's the "Sarah Brooke" look!!

A few randoms...

2008-06-03T00:13:00.005-05:00

Amy and I went to Starbucks tonight, so I'm wired! I thought I would add a few more pictures.
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I challenged Justin to a game of putt putt. Unfortunately, our game was postponed due to rain. Babe, I still owe you a "whoppin!'"

Justin's cousin's twin girls, Ava and Shae. I just want to pinch Ava's chubbiness, and Shae is so darn precious!

Aimee, me, Amy and Terri at Cara's wedding reception.

Yes, another wedding. But this one was outdoors, and it stormed. We got wet, but it was worth it. Christie was so excited to get married that she didn't mind the storm. There was a lightning show during their vows! Kara, Sandy, me, Amy, Ashlee and Christie.

DON'T BLINK...

2008-06-02T23:17:00.013-05:00

Kenny Chesney sings a song that hits home for me right now. In the blink of an eye your baby is grown... The thought scares me. Sunday a slide show was put together for the high school seniors graduating this year. I had to leave after the 3rd person because I was bawling my eyes out. Not because I knew these kids, but because their baby pictures were so familiar then with the change of a slide they were seniors. It hit me that I would be sitting in their parents place in 16 years and my "baby" will be college bound. I will need medication!! It sounds so silly, I know! Amy, Aimee and I were all teary eyed while our husbands mocked our thoughts. But seriously. Jackson's life has flown by already and I wonder if I have enjoyed it as much as I can. In my months of sleep deprivation, and fighting the Type A tendencies, have I taken it all in? I hope I have. There is a conversation that I have often with some friends about your kids not remembering how clean the house was, but they remember a favorite game or outing taken as a family. It's the truth!

Jackson loves for me to go sit in his bedroom and watch him play. He likes to pull every book off his shelf and shuffle through them, throwing a few to the side to find the one he wants to read. Then he'll crawl in my lap and say more. As I read, I point to objects and feel the satisfaction in knowing I taught him that word or that sound! I treasure those moments.

I still can't believe Jackson's one and a half years old. Then, I also can't believe that I'm 27, I feel like such a big kid. And that makes my mom, well, I'll spare her age!!
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Here are a few random pictures taken over the last few weeks. Thank you for reading my sentiments. And don't mock me, I'm emotional!

One year ago, 6 months old

18 months...the fearless swimmer!

Jackson showing his muscles while Ayla wonders what his problem is!
He is gonna bust a blood vessel some day!!

Playing in the water at Aunt Amy's house. Notice the Texas crocs? My mom bought them not thinking about the fact that Daddy's not a big UT fan but, Uncle Brett likes them, and they go with a lot of outfits!

He dumped all of his toys out so that he could get in

Getting a drink

Uncle Justin feeding Ayla Grace

Amazing

2008-05-19T20:17:00.007-05:00

My baby has become a little boy! He has a mouth full of chompers, lots of hair, and big ol' feet! He also follows directions well, always wants to help, and has an opinion. Yesterday afternoon we did yard work and then I washed our cars. A few weeks ago I would have had to chase Jackson to keep him out of the street, but not anymore. He grabbed a sponge and copied me scrubbing away. Then he held the hose and helped me get the soap off. I watched in amazement as he drug the hose where I needed it and would dip my sponge in the water for me. He likes to carry things to Justin and I, which sometimes makes it tricky to find them later. Last night he would come in the kitchen and say "more, " so I gave him a strawberry to take to "Dada." They shared it, then he'd do it again. It was so sweet! I just wonder...does this change happen overnight? It seems like he just wakes up one day and decides to say a new word or learn a new trick. It's a little scary!

Here is Jackson's first trip to the zoo:

He looks so old here, standing like a big boy in front of the penguins.

Typical! Climbing the fence around the ducks and swans.

Justin was pretty intrigued by these birds. You could buy a stick with honey and birdseed on the end to feed them. I wasn't to big on going in this area...the noise alone terrified me! But I was afraid I would miss something, so I made the sacrifice! Jackson wanted to pick one up.

Just after this picture was snapped, an ostrich peed and everyone groaned!

Jackson's new wagon!! Nana thought he would love this, and she was right!! He could not get enough.

Getting himself in!

Gone Fishin'

2008-04-28T21:11:00.006-05:00

Justin and Jack went fishing this evening, and Justin came home with a good sized speckled trout. They called to ask me to keep Jackson up so he could see it before Justin filleted it. Jackson was on the verge sleep, but I obliged...We didn't quite get the reaction we hoped for!

A night on the town...with Elton!!

2008-04-27T08:21:00.002-05:00

Friday night Justin and I went with his boss Chris and his wife Jenny to see Elton John. We had 4 th row seats, which made for a great concert. Elton played for 2 1/2 hours and put on a great show.

After eating dinner at The Cactus Flower, we posed for a quick pic. We have very few pictures of just us these days!

At the concert...Elton is behind us!

We were so close...

A new favorite

2008-04-24T14:11:00.005-05:00

Jackson has always liked hats and sun glasses, but never like this! He found a Dallas Stars hat of Justin's and has worn it around the house for days! It's pretty cute. Here are a few pictures from the last few days...

Amy and I found this bag while shopping in Brewton Alabama. It has bugs on it and I had his name monogrammed. I put it on his back before leaving for church and we got a big laugh. He could not find his balance and falling all over the place!

What we're up to!

2008-04-18T22:16:00.004-05:00

Jackson had a well baby check a few days ago, and I am happy to report that he has finally moved to the 50th percentile in height and weight and is still steady in the 75th for head circumference. He has been in the 25th in height and weight for the last year, so I am excited!

He has really started to show a lot of "sass" in the last month. Tonight I showed Amy a look he gave me and she thought it looked just like me! As sassy as he can be, he is also very sweet. I find myself torn when it comes to discipline. When I get on to him and his reaction is a hug, it makes me melt. Although the times I tell him no and he either laughs or does it again I want to scream! After getting on to him I find that I have to turn my head so that he doesn't see me laugh. His reaction is so funny sometimes.

Jackson is definitely a little boy...he loves to play outside, and he loves cars and trucks. He makes a "vroom" noise to anything with wheels. Yesterday at the grocery store he would point to a cart and make that noise! He has a big, healthy appetite, and will pretty much eat anything that we are eating. He also has a taste for Grandpa's coffee! He has not mastered using a spoon yet, but he will pick his food up, put it on his spoon then get it into his mouth.

He is good about following one step directions, and is getting the hang of two steps. He loves to go and get us a diaper when we ask, and he is also trying so hard to communicate. He says several words now: mama, Dada, Hazel, Amy, Ayla, Ma (Grandma) Pa or Papa (Grandpa), Nana, waffle, Jackson, shoe, sock, tractor, truck, mooo, poo poo. Not all are perfectly clear but we can understand them. He will also mimic words when he is in the mood, but it's up to him! Today he said my name (thanks to a girl I work with) and Texas (a very important word)!

My favorite time is when he is sleepy and just wants to cuddle. He will sit or lay in my lap and play with my hair. Justin is the "baby whisperer" though! He is so good at getting Jackson to sleep. It's ridiculous really!!

Justin has been enjoying his job. This week his company participated in the Parade of Homes, so he was busy all week preparing for that. Work has been great for me! I am booked most days and really enjoy it. On the days that I'm home, I have been working on projects around the house. I am constantly "on the go" with something or someone! Hope you enjoyed getting caught up with us!

XOXO

A trip to the Gulfarium

2008-04-18T22:00:00.004-05:00

A few weeks ago, Aimee and I took Jackson and her boys Joshua (3 1/2) and Luke (8 months) to the Aquarium. It's a small place in Fort Walton Beach, but the neatest part is that it's on the beach and no matter where you sit, you have a good view. Jackson had more fun people watching than "fish" watching, but he did enjoy the dolphin show.

What a neat picture!

Jackson clapped when everyone else did.

The boys posing for a quick pic!

Jackson was in no mood to smile for a picture with mommy. He was so tired when we left, he crashed before we were out of the parking lot!

Neither of the Farley boys wanted to smile either!

Playing peek-a-boo :+)

After the aquarium trip and with Jackson and Luke asleep, Aimee and I decided to do some shopping in Destin. Joshua was very excited to go to the candy store to get jelly beans! We had a fun day, and all three boys were good. Jackson slept good that night!

Ayla Grace on Easter

2008-03-25T18:22:00.006-05:00

When we got home from church Jackson took a nap, so we got to spend undivided time with Ayla. She tolerated several pictures, then ate chicken and pears, sweet potatoes, and green beans. She also spit several spoonfuls on herself and the carpet! She just started blowing out with an entire mouth full of food. She's not mad when she does it, she's playing! It's pretty cute! After lunch, Jackson got up and Ayla took a nap so she missed Jackson hunting eggs. Next year she may give Jackson a run for his money!

She looks so good in this color!

My sweet baby girl!

Posing for a quick pic after church

Hippity Hoppity Easters on it's way...

2008-03-25T17:48:00.018-05:00

We had an eventful Easter this year! Jackson enjoyed "finding" the eggs and putting them in his basket. He also enjoyed taking the eggs out! We practiced putting things into and taking things out of the basket for a month before Easter :+) Aunt Amy got Jackson a really cute basket that he could literally sit in, so it was a little large for him to carry himself, so I carried it while Justin helped Jackson hunt the eggs. Next year will be a lot of fun with both the kids.

Before church I took Jackson outside to get a picture or two. Let's say he was not feeling cooperative, so this is the best one I got! Nana sent him the sweetest bear, so here he is giving hugs. Just after I took this he threw the bear down and ran away from the camera!

He made this face with every egg he saw. Amy kept taking eggs out and re-hiding them, but he didn't act like it was old news!

I love this picture!

Playing peek-a-boo in the fountain!

It was hot and his pants were falling off, so we stripped him down! Notice he still has his shoes on!

Show me your muscles!!

2008-03-25T17:31:00.003-05:00

March 18, 2004

2008-03-21T07:54:00.009-05:00

Wow! 4 years has flown by! 4 years...Our life was so different.

Minutes before walking downstairs to meet my husband. I remember when saying the word "husband" sounded so weird and exciting!

He looks so handsome!

The Jamaican photographer loved this picture. It made everyone laugh!

I love this one! It's so sweet!

We had so much fun taking these, but my dress got filthy! People standing around gasped when we got in the water!

The day after the wedding we went to Dunn's River Falls. We climbed up the falls on a trail in the middle of the jungle, then down through the water on the rocks. The water was so cold, around 60 degrees. We had a blast!

Justin Timberlake has nothin' on me...

2008-03-04T17:56:00.003-06:00

We recently discovered that Jackson Eli absolutely loves to dance. Any song or toy that plays music will get him going! We have several movies of his "moves" but this is my favorite so far!

Random cute pictures!

2008-02-14T14:00:00.012-06:00

I have been so busy lately that I haven't been good about updating my blog. Sorry!! Here are some random pictures taken over the last week...

Daddy and Jackson.

Jackson has started "giving" kisses! This morning he had Justin and I laughing when he did it. He would watch us kiss then give daddy a kiss, then mommy.

Here is Jackson eating Granny Davis' candy. I gave it to him so that I could get a picture, and he cried when I took it away!

Our kids!

He learned how to climb last week. This bench sits in our kitchen under the window, so he climbs up there to say bye, bye to mommy or daddy.

Taken after lunch on Sunday. I love this picture! I framed it for Justin's office!

My boys in sunglasses!

He will leave these on...

After a breakfast of toast and jelly! What a mess :+)

Luke Storm (4 months) and Jackson.

Check out my Slide Show!

2008-02-06T16:37:00.001-06:00

All my tricks!

2008-02-06T11:47:00.000-06:00

It is so hard to get kids to perform, but I caught a few of his tricks on video!

Jackson became interested in Daddy's coffee cup, so Justin would let Jackson touch it and tell him it was hot. Now when Jackson thinks anything is hot, he'll touch it and then make the funniest face with his mouth open as wide as it will go! In this video he also says yummy, more, please, and plays peek-a-bo with me behind the camera! Pretty cute stuff...

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MY FIRST RIB!!

Hmmm...

Pretty Good!

Want a bite?

Big Boy Haircut

2008-01-29T13:43:00.001-06:00

Jackson had his first "big boy" haircut today, and he was so good! I trimmed it a few months ago, but I knew that he needed a "cut" this time so I asked Sandy (my boss) to do the honors. He looks so precious with it shorter. No more mad scientist hair!!

He sat like this the entire time.

Here he is combing his hair for Sandy.

The clippers usually make kids cry, but Jackson laughed like it tickled.

The big reveal!

I love it!!

Big boy!!

Mr. Personality

2008-01-25T10:20:00.001-06:00

When I was a kid my mom had a rhyme that she would recite to me. Let's see if I remember it.

There once was a girl with a pretty little curl in the middle of her forehead. When she was good, she was really, really good, but when she was bad she was horrid.

That makes me laugh now, because it was so true! I have a feeling the same will be true with my Jackson. He can be the sweetest, most lovable baby giving lots of hugs and cuddles. But he can also throw a fit (mostly with his mama) and it comes with little warning! Sometimes when I tell him no, he slaps his hands together and yells. Justin has started doing it back to him, which makes him stop and laugh.

On another note, why is it that kids are so different with their parents? The people whose lives change the most for them; the ones suffering from sleep deprivation and quiet time. I want to know!

This is his new face. He opens his mouth so wide like he's saying , "Oh!"He does this when he's playing and when he's walking.

Here's the sweet baby that makes me smile!

Blowing a kiss to mama!

This picture captured the moment. He likes to throw his toys and bang on everything. And when he does it, he looks so serious and a little aggressive!

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These were taken almost 1 year apart. Can you believe it?

He was so little, daddy's hand fit all the way around Jackson's chest!

More and More Mobile!

2008-01-19T18:49:00.000-06:00

This was one of the first videos we took of Jackson attempting a step or two. I liked this one because of his hat!!

Here is Jackson being coaxed into walking. When we get the camera out to capture a moment, sometimes he is too concerned with the camera to continue whatever cute thing he is doing. We didn't have that problem this time!

Aimee Storm gave Jackson this toy a while back. I unpacked it when we moved, and I'm glad I did. He loves it! I usually leave this toy in his room to walk around with and play while he's in there. The other day I heard him yelling and went around the corner to find him trying to maneuver his toy through the hallway. He cleared the door way and walked on into the kitchen. I got a laugh!

Jackson was sitting in my lap playing while I was waiting for the video to upload . He was pointing to his milk saying more. I said, "please" and he did the sign for please. I was amazed! I have been trying to get him to do it for a week, but felt like maybe he wasn't ready. I guess he wanted to show me that he would do it on his time!

A Handful of Lovin'

2008-01-11T07:30:00.001-06:00

Yesterday was chore day for me, so Jackson played with is truck and his toys. He normally gives me 20 minutes or so before he comes to find me. I always here the pat, pat, pat of his hands slapping the tile and him babbling happily, then he'll appear. While I was vacuuming, I thought it was weird that I hadn't seen him. I went into the living room and found him with a baggie full of cheerios all over the floor. He was eating them off the floor, and was pretty happy! He has been taking things from around the house and putting them in his truck. Then he'll walk around like he's big stuff!

Wearing Daddy's hat!

Samuel Day
Sunday our church celebrated and prayed for all babies born in 2006 and 2007. Each family was called individually and then an Elder prayed for everyone while we stayed up front. Justin leaned over to Jackson and whispered, "Go Seminoles." And we all know what he does when someone says that. Jackson raised his arms up and looked around like he was waiting for everyone to say "yay." He was also waving at everyone! He has a "parade wave," where he keeps waving and looks from one person to another! It was funny! I was glad we were able to celebrate our blessing with our friends, Amy and Brett, Aimee and Bo and Jodi and Charles.

Ayla before the ceremony. She looks so much like Amy in this picture!

My big boy sitting on the front steps!

Jackson has been practicing his touchdown dance!!!

His version of the Heisman! Justin says he going to go to FAMU and be the first white running back :+)

Happy New Year

2008-01-01T19:01:00.001-06:00

A few more pictures I wanted to share...

Sitting on the deck this morning.

Checking out the water with daddy. Jackson absolutely loves to be out side, no matter how cold or windy it is!

Reading his Christmas book!

This face makes me laugh. Everyone makes fun of me saying, "I'm over it." Jackson really looks over it!! Taken at church the day before Christmas.

I love watching the pelicans "fish" right off our boat dock.

The last few days

2008-01-01T18:24:00.000-06:00

Taken at Zoo Lights. We don't have many pictures of us without our baby!

A usual face these days!

Baby swapping

We coordinated our outfits!

We had a great Christmas and New Year. It was all low key this year, which was fine with me. I have been off work, so I took the opportunity to get some things done at home. I don't think I have ever had as much laundry to do at one time. It was ridiculous! But it's done, and I'm on to other things. I also painted our kitchen and unpacked our winter clothes. Not too fun, but I'm glad I did it! Next task...organizing the garage!

On Christmas Eve, we all went to the Napier's for a pajama breakfast. Jackson and Ayla wore matching p.j.s with sock monkeys on them.

Jackson is so sweet with Ayla. He likes to give her hugs and pat her head. And Ayla will look at him and smile. It's so fun to watch them interact.

Christmas Day we ate at Jack and Sherry's. We took some pictures before we ate...

"Yay!" Notice Jackson looking around wondering what we were doing!

My Dad and Step mom sent Jackson a Dallas Cowboy jacket and her cousin sent him a hat to match. We went for a walk the other night, so he was bundled up tight. The jacket is so puffy that he can't move much or put his arms down. It reminded me of Tommy Boy when he puts on David Spade's coat!

Back on the ball...

2007-12-22T21:38:00.000-06:00

Or trying to be! Here are some more pictures.

He looks so big! These were taken on the first cold night in our new house. Justin built a fire and Jackson, being his father's son, wanted to helped stoke it!

This is a pretty normal face when he's eating. "Give me more!!" He says more in sign language too.

Hazel loves that Jackson likes to feed her. It makes him laugh, and I don't have to sweep up :+)

ZOO LIGHTS @ GULF BREEZE ZOO

Out on the deck before we left.

We had a blast. And it finally feels like winter!!

Ayla doing what she does best!!

I named this goat Baylie (the Napier's lab) because he was wild! He was balanced on a log with his front legs on the fence and his neck stretched as far as it would go. Jackson was not scared of the goats giving him kisses. I was a little worried about it after one goat stuck his head through the fence slats to make sure we didn't have snacks in the stroller tray.

Naughty or Nice?? Hmmm??

Ayla laughs when Amy says, "Ho, Ho, Ho" so she was smiling in her first picture with Santa. Jackson, on the other hand, had a tight grip on Santa's beard while he cried!

New Pictures, No Commentary

2007-12-21T23:36:00.000-06:00

I haven't updated my blog lately, and I'm sorry!! I figured, at the insistence of my Aunt Brenda, that I would share a few pictures.

My baby with a mohawk :+)

Sugar high...

And he hit the wall! He had icing everywhere...

One of his 1 year portraits. Daddy is so proud that he'll do this on command!

Family Christmas Photo

The Kids...This is a good "Southern" picture. Ayla in a smocked dress and Jackson holding her hand.

Taken at my Christmas party. We had fun that night!

Okay, my arm is twisted. Here's a quick update.

Jackson is talking and babbling more every day. Today he said "yummy" while eating breakfast. Then he was upset with me and he cried, "da, da, da, no, no, no!" It was really funny. I'm not sure that he fully knows the meaning, but he knows the words!! This afternoon he crawled up and down the deck following a little lizard. Then he sat and played with a pine cone and a stick. He has gotten a lot better at playing alone.

We're excited to celebrate Christmas with Jackson this year. He'll be fun!!We are going to Zoo Lights tomorrow afternoon with Amy, Brett, Ayla, Grandma and Grandpa. The zoo is decorated with Christmas lights, so we'll see the animals, ride the train, and pay Mr. Claus a visit.

I will update my blog in the next few days with more pictures!

Take a Stroll

2007-11-29T20:24:00.000-06:00

Every now and then I have the urge to look back at the last year of my life. A year that, for many reasons, you could say was the toughest so far. The only shining light through all of the stress has been Jackson Eli. He has made us smile every single day since his birth. He's made us cry a few times too!

I thought I would take all my friends on a stroll through the past year. Pardon the length, there are a lot of pictures. It's worth a peek!

1 1/2 weeks before delivery. I was on "light duty" which for me was putting my feet up during meals. Here I was eating watermelon in hopes of shedding some of my water weight.

Thanksgiving Day - Big Mama! I actually considered sending this as our Christmas card. What was I thinking? I ended up in the hospital before I was able to order those, and I'm glad!

Hours old!! In a previous post I talked about my cone-headed baby with bruises. Here he is, with a hat! This makes me want another...am I crazy?

4 weeks - New Years Eve. We had a low key night at the Storm's with all the girls and Jackson. It's a blur now due to sleep deprivation!

5 weeks - with baby acne. I don't have many pictures of him with acne. He didn't see many people either. Looking back, it wasn't that bad! Could his paci be any bigger?

3 months. He started pushing up like this around 2 1/2 months.

3 months - Favorite hat. I love this hat and these pictures. I just want to kiss him!!

4 months - with Great Grandpa Love's Naval medals. Sherry and I posed him a lot and took pictures. He was my baby doll until he got old enough to squirm away!

4 months - The good days, before he could escape the Bumbo!

5 months - Hangin' out. This seems so long ago!

6 months - sitting up. My mom and I were so excited to take these. We were amazed! This was just before he turned 6 months.

7 months - scooting around didn't last long!

8 months - I adore this picture and that outfit. I didn't think he was chubby then, but he looks it now!

9 months - Ayla and Jackson had their first pictures made together. This was fun!

Thanks for reminiscing with me. I hope you enjoyed the walk, and burned some calories at the same time!

Almost birthday boy

2007-11-24T12:57:00.000-06:00

Jackson celebrated his first birthday with my family after Thanksgiving lunch. My mom and Aunt Brenda had his cake made, which was too cute! Jackson ate the head off a giraffe cookie and the icing from his fingers, but he didn't take advantage of having the freedom to make a mess. I took his cake away when he picked it up and tried to feed it to me!

Sugar high, here I come!!

Sometimes it takes two to change his wiggly-ness!

Watching the cowboy game ;+)

Tuckered out after a day of food, frosting, and BINGO! (That's GG, my grandmother)

Nana gave him a tonka truck for his birthday. He has pushed it from one end of the house to the other! Fun, fun, fun.

A few new tricks

2007-11-23T16:11:00.000-06:00

Well, we are having fun in Texas and trying to embrace the cold! This Florida girl freezes in 40 degrees! There were snow flurries at Texas Stadium yesterday.

Jackson did great on the long ride from Pensacola. I was surprised and excited! I was able to watch 2 movies but I didn't sleep much. We got in about 5:30 in the morning, and Jackson was up by 7...

Jackson has not been timid about "new" people this trip, which I am thankful for. On Thanksgiving day, he jumped from person to person. I have enjoyed watching my family interact with him now that he is more of a little boy. He has started to point at things he wants or wants you to look at. He makes a noise that sounds like "that."

Speaking of speaking, he said "shoe" yesterday. I couldn't believe it! My mom bought him some hush puppies and instructed me to put them on him every day so that he will be used to them. I was so excited to get these precious shoes on his flintstone feet! That was short lived. They lasted for a few pictures, then he sat in the floor, untied them both, looked up at his Nana and said "shoe."

This is Jackson's new smile. I absolutely adore it! He crinkles his noes and it's too cute!!

Daddy tought him to raise his arms when he says, "Go Seminoles!!"

He can't be left alone for a minute!!

Puppy Dog

2007-11-11T17:53:00.000-06:00

Jackson has started pointing at things saying, ohhh and oosh, like he is asking a question. I wish I knew what was going on in his head! We can say, "where's daddy?" or "where's mommy?" and he'll find us. He also loves to watch Hazel and Baylie play. He laughs when Hazel wags her tail, and he tries to catch it. Hazel really doesn't understand what he's doing and would rather him not mess with her bottom, but she's a good sport. Last night Hazel was laying in the floor letting Jackson crawl over her. Jackson would throw the ball and she would look at Justin waiting for him to say, "go get it!" A few times she would get between Jackson and I and try to lay down. She would get up quickly when she saw Jackson trotting toward her. When he crawls, he picks up his hands so high and slaps them down with each stroke. He definitely doesn't do anything gently. My mom and HB sent me flowers at work. I brought them home yesterday and Jackson has been pointing to them ever since. I showed him how to smell the flower and he tried to rip the petals off! So much for that photo op!

Hugs for Hazel!

If this would just stay still, I could grab it!

Wanna play ball?

Where did the last 11 months go?

2007-11-04T19:34:00.000-06:00

I can not believe my little boy will be 1 year old soon...

My mom was the mom to cry on every birthday (she probably still does!) and she still refers to me as her baby. She would hold my hand and say, "let me hold your 7 year old hand." Every year it was the same routine. When I was younger it made me feel special, but as I got older I would laugh at her. I never understood what was so emotional about my birthday. Boy do I understand it now!

I, like most moms, spent my entire pregnancy obsessing about this little baby inside me. What a miracle! I would rub my tummy and think about the precious gift God has given me. I would think about what he would look like, and how much fun we would have together. We had him named from the time we heard, "it's a boy!" Little Jackson Eli. He would be just like his daddy...laid back...an easy baby! We didn't know what we were in for!

I will never forget the first moment I saw my son. A tiny 5.67 pounds and covered with "ick." He was the most perfect thing I had ever seen. He had my eyes! 4 weeks early, and no complications. We knew we were blessed to have such a healthy little boy. The weeks and months have flown by just like everyone said they would. I have taken enough pictures and video to relive the last 11 months at any time. I may make that my tradition on his birthdays. Daddy and I will sit him down for a little slide show of "this is your life!"

The last year has not been an easy one for the Davis clan, but I have enjoyed many great moments. The first time he smiled at me, when it wasn't a gas pain. His first giggle. Rolling over, then lifting his head. Sitting up. His first tooth, or teeth since he got 2 at the same time. Pulling up. Standing with no hands. Mama. Dada. Eesh. Laughing uncontrollably at something that really isn't funny. Swimming. Finger feeding. Screaming for attention (not so enjoyable as the others!). Playing by himself. Climbing.

Jackson loves to look at the trees

Although Jackson can be a challenge, he is full of spirit and personality. He is a good baby, and will be better when he learns to sleep a little more! He is a joy to everyone around him. Next month my baby will be 1. I'm sure it will give my mom some satisfaction to know that not only am I crying as I type, but on the morning of December 2 , you can bet there will be a tear or 2!

I SURVIVED!

2007-11-02T09:46:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was my first day at my new salon. Driving to work, I felt nauseous. What was I thinking? How was I going to leave Jackson all day long? Would he realize that I was gone? Would he miss me? Would the girls in the salon like me? Am I ready for this? I pulled up 25 minutes early, (my Type A-ness again) so I drove around and listened to the radio. When I went back, right on time, my boss was already there. We sat outside for a few minutes to talk. I think she knew how nervous I was! She told me how excited she was to have me, and how much she was looking forward to working with me. I told her I was excited too, and how much I wanted to throw up!!

Being out of the salon for a while, I forgot how bad I was at shampooing. Seriously, I'm bad! I had sweaty palms during my first shampoo, but it worked out alright. As the day went on, I felt like I was back in the swing of things. No major incidents, and everything was coming back to me. Then while I was shampooing my last client, I let go of the hose spraying her in the face and the wall inches away from a co-worker. How embarrassing. I tried to keep going, but my face was bright red. I hate that!!

All in all, I built back the confidence I forgot I had. Jackson had a great day, and mommy did too. I missed him, of course, but it felt good to have someone tell me what a good job I did. Being a mom is the hardest job I will ever have. He cannot tell me that how perfectly I diapered his little bottom, or that his last bottle was just the right combo of formula and water! So 2 days a week I will get out of the house, dress up and feel like I look good. I will have adult conversation all day long without worrying about nap time. I will get to wear my favorite shoes, and jewelry, and leave the house without a diaper bag. As for the other 5 days, I will continue my job as Jackson's mommy. Telling him "no, no" at the same things everyday, watching him learn something new, making him laugh, and seeing him grow! I will savor the moments, good and bad, and be more patient. The days I'm not working will not just be another day, they will be special because I'm spending time with my son. Being a working mom may not be the worst thing in the world. It may make me a better mom!

Bzzzzz

2007-10-29T15:09:00.000-05:00

Saturday we went to the Fall Festival at our church where they do "trunk or treat" instead of trick or treat. People volunteer to decorate their cars and hand out candy in the parking lot. It was a warm day, so it didn't take long for the bumble bee to shed his costume. Luckily we got a few pictures before it came off!!

What is this thing??

Aimee and Luke, Me and Jackson, Amy and Ayla

Daddy entertaining Jackson with animal crackers, and getting them all over him!

Well, we tried

2007-10-26T22:24:00.000-05:00

This morning Amy and I planned to take a few fall pictures of the kids in their matching outfits. Boy was our planned benched!!

"It's okay Ayla, I don't like my hat either. Here, I'll take yours off!"

This is as good as it gets! Cute, Cute, Cute!!
(Ayla 2 1/2 months, Jackson 11 months next week)

My big boy, standing up.

Little camera ham!
_____________________________________________________

I have said this so many times, but today was a reminder for me...being a mom has tested my Type A tendencies. Some days I feel like I am running late, no matter how early I start trying to get out the door. From the first contractions of labor, Jackson has taught me about flexibility. I am a person who likes things done a certain way, and I like them done right away. I like organization and planning ahead. God may be teaching me a lesson by blessing me with a child who has his own ideas. My little boy may be a lot more like Mommy than his Daddy would like!

Baby Seminole

2007-10-25T21:10:00.000-05:00

FSU/Miami game coverage, by Jackson Davis

"Time to settle in for the game..."

"TOUCHDOWN FLORIDA STATE! HIGH FIVE!!!"

"Florida State loses to Miami 37-29. I'm so sad!"

My Florida Girls

2007-10-23T22:07:00.001-05:00

Girls night out at McGuires. FUN, FUN, FUN!

Judy and Aimee

Terri's underneath the head dress!

A few older pictures. The Amys were pregnant! They look great though, don't they??

Becca joined us in this one!

Mister Mischief

2007-10-22T19:46:00.001-05:00

I heard him crying and found him underneath my mom's end table. Being the good mother that I am, I grabbed my camera before helping him out!

Chillin' on the kitchen counter. We had to move everything within 2 feet or he would grab it and throw it in the floor, or play the drums on it!

Helping Nana unload the dishwasher!!

Trick or Treat??

2007-10-22T10:21:00.000-05:00

Saturday night we went to the Farley's annual Halloween party. Aimee, Amy, and I had planned to be desperate housewives. Not much planning needed for that, I know! Anyway, at the last minute I decided that I wasn't feeling my "costume" so I went as a 40s pinup girl. I printed a sign of Uncle Sam saying, "I want you" but I didn't have it in these pictures. I wish I could wear my hair like this every day. I love it! I really did miss my era.

Justin went as Lincoln Burrows from the show Prison Break, and looked great! It's scary that I could be so attracted to a convict! If I meet him while he was in prison, I probably would marry him all over again!! I was really happy that he did not have on a mask and was not carrying a bloody knife or a chainsaw! Costume shopping with him this year was comical! He kept putting together these costumes that didn't make sense to me. A priest robe and an Asian man mask? Anyway, I thought he looked hot!

Every time I looked at Brett I laughed! He went as Borat...I think the curly hair suits him!

I didn't get a picture of Bo, but he went as Ricky Bobby from Talladega Nights. It was funny! Before we ate Aimee asked him to say a prayer and he started off, "Dear baby Jesus..."

The Girls: Sarah, Aimee, Judy, Amy, Terri, and Carrie.

The Joy of Motherhood

2007-10-19T18:21:00.000-05:00

Oh the many joys. As I sit here typing this, I have to pause periodically to take computer cords out of Jackson's mouth or pull him out from under my chair. I think about all the time I had before I had a baby. Justin and I could go and do as we pleased. I would call on Friday afternoon and say, "Mexican food and a movie tonight?" and he would say, "Sure!" and that was that. If we wanted to stay up late watching some cop gone wrong movie, we would because we could sleep until noon Saturday (although I rarely did!). Those days have been replaced with thoughts of a "family friendly" restaurant, and being home by Jackson's bed time. And instead of staying up to watch a movie, I stay up to shave my legs and if I'm lucky I'll throw on a mud mask. What did I do before I had Jackson? I was so selfish with my time!

But hearing "mama" as soon as Jackson wakes up and watching his face light up when he sees me is so much more important than all the time (and sleep) in the world!

My first post

2007-10-18T20:49:00.000-05:00

I have been thinking about creating a website for pictures and updates. Amy started a blog a few weeks ago, and it seems to be easy enough. So, here goes nothing! I can not guarantee that my blog will stay current, but I will do my best. So far, it's pretty fun!

I had a great trip to Dallas, but I am glad to be home. We sure missed daddy!

Here is Jackson helping me unpack! He is so active and into everything. It is rewarding to teach him something and then watch him do it over and over. He says "Mama," "Dada," and "oh" and "eww." He has a couple other tricks, but is choosy about when to show them off. He waves bye bye when he feels like it and will give you high five if you ask!