The Bowers' Blog

Spring has sprung?

2012-02-02T15:10:00.000-08:00

Wow. Is it Spring already??? I am loving this weather. But I'm wondering if it will be this nice when it's actually spring. Makes me want to break out my white pants and sandals. Or at least go shopping for new white pants and sandals. ( I'm kidding, Bradley. Don't panic.) We got the cards today that tell how much our car tags are. Looks like I ain't gonna be buying nothin' for a while ; ) I know that's incorrect grammar. But it makes it so much more dramatic.

We enjoyed dinner with a friend of B's Saturday night in Dothan. We didn't plan to have dinner, but we ran into them while shopping. It was a nice surprise.

Basketball is drawing to a close. How nice it will be to come home in the afternoons. I can nap, stalk people on facebook, read, sew, look at Pinterest, cook, do my nails. Ha, who am I kidding? We'll be blowing bubbles, taking wagon rides, and watching Mickey Mouse. And that's fine by me. I must keep a better eye on her though. She brought me 2 pieces of dog poop on Saturday while we were outside playing. On Sunday, I dozed off after changing her diaper. We awoke to find her in the floor playing in it like mud. Hence, the reason we missed Sunday School. She had also walked in it. We were cleaning carpets AND Ella Kate.

Looking forward to seeing old friends and celebrating the upcoming arrival of a new baby this weekend. It's been too long. Hope you all have a great Friday and an extra great weekend.

Eleven

2012-01-29T19:10:00.000-08:00

Here are the rules: 1. Post these rules. 2. You must post 11 random things about yourself. 3. Answer the questions set for you in their post. 4. Create 11 new questions for the people you tag to answer. 5. Go to their blog and tell them you've tagged them. 6. No stuff in the tagging section about you are tagged if you are reading this. You legitimately have to tag 11 people.

11 Random Things about Me:
1. I don't do condiments, sauces, dips, etc. I do PLAIN.
2. I just got a sewing machine. Now if I could just figure out how to use it.
3. I love my job. Some days I want to choke them. I'm sure some of them would like to choke me. But it is SO rewarding.
4. We only do Walmart once a month. Or that's our goal. We spend way to much in there.
5. I get really excited about lunchroom steak nuggets.
6. AND fish nuggets.
7. B and I got married 9 months after our first date. When you're old like us, you just know.
8. I don't like my food to touch and I've been known to "mop" my plate with a paper towel.
9. I've always had fairly short hair and I'm currently trying to grow it out. This is hard for me. I'm not sure why.
10. I have grown to really ENJOY my morning runs. It's my "Hope time". And even better is the 15 minutes afterwards when I get to sit in the recliner and look at Pinterest.
11. I bought 3 cases of Coke Zero today. You would think this would get me to the end of February when I'll make my next Walmart trip, but chances are, they'll be gone long before then.

Mandi's questions for me:
How long should you know/date someone before marriage?
Before I met B, I would have said at least a year, but in reference to #7 above, if you know, you know. Do it.

What is your favorite memory of me and you?
I'm going with the lunches during those awful internship meetings.

What is one book that everyone must read?
The Help. Absolutely. I didn't have to think about this one.

Which is better, a rainy day at home watching movies or a sunny day outside?
Do I have to choose????? I love being lazy, so if I MUST choose, I pick a rainy day. Naps, PJ's, and plenty of movies and books. Yes, I'll take it.

What do you remember most about your childhood?
How my brother ALWAYS got the middle cinnamon roll. I'm scarred for life.

Biggest pet peeve?
Lazy people who raise their children to be lazy people. Also at the top of that list would be people who act nice, but really aren't.

Favorite weird food combo?
Combo? I'm not combining anything. Reference #8 above.

Sonic or Dairy Queen?
Wouldn't it be nice to have a choice? I guess Dairy Queen.

Favorite name for a boy? Girl?
Harrison for a boy/Ella Kate (obviously) for a girl

Outdoor/church/other wedding?
Church Wedding

Most effective diet exercise plan you've tried?
Running. It works. And it makes me feel good.

My questions for my friends:
1. Lake or ocean?
2. Favorite season?
3. Do you talk to people you don't know (for example: in the grocery store, WalMart, etc.)?
4. Favorite movie of all time?
5. Silver or gold?
6. If you could drive any vehicle, what would you choose?
7. What is one quirky thing you do?
8. Do you tend to arrive places early or late?
9. What do you have for breakfast most mornings?
10. Do you consider yourself a tidy person?
11. What is one thing you're thankful for?

I tag: (I'm not sure I know 11 people with blogs???)
http://thehystericaldistrict.blogspot.com/
http://ramerbunch.blogspot.com/
http://mattandmorganspivey.blogspot.com/
http://forusitsjustonebigwaltz.blogspot.com/
http://athomewiththemaness.blogspot.com/
http://mattandcotygeohagan.blogspot.com/
http://hardys4ua.blogspot.com/
http://tillmanslife.blogspot.com/
http://inthelifeofe.blogspot.com/

I WILL blog more than once a month.

2012-01-18T14:26:00.001-08:00

I WILL blog more than once a month. I WILL blog more than once a month...I'm blogging and EK is...I'm not sure. Probably swishing her hand, toothbrush, arm, etc. in the toilet. It seems to be her favorite past time. Which means: FLUSH. ALWAYS. She is so much fun these days. I love it. And it's exhausting. B picked up softball this year and this is the one month that it overlaps basketball. This means we're both on the run. I come home, pick her up, take her back to school, only to hand her over so he can bring her home after softball while I camp out at the basketball game for a while. Good thing she's social. Or maybe that's WHY she's social. I'm not sure.

We made our first sick visit to the doctor on Monday. I say 1 in 14 months ain't bad. She seems to finally be better today. We're thankful. She's been talking up a storm. We understand some. She seems to think we should understand all. It makes us laugh. My favorite is please which sounds more like 'peas'.

I'm planning to attemp my next 5K at the end of February. I'm just hoping the path is well marked. If not, it's only in Troy. I lived there a couple of years so if I do get lost again, at least I can find my way back without any trouble.

I'm making an attempt at some mexican food for dinner tonight and no, I'm not going to make a Monterey's run. It's homeade chicken nachos for us tonight. I'm looking forward to it. Chicken nachos, my Kindle with The Help downloaded (really enjoying that: the Kindle and The Help), and maybe a fire. Ahhh...yes. I enjoy busy, but I do love time at home.

Happy Wednesday!

It's Over Already?

2011-12-29T09:19:00.000-08:00

Christmas was a blast this year. Ella Kate was full of energy (as always) and really got into the "tearing of the paper". As I started loading gifts Saturday morning, I realized that she had been "tearing paper" for a while without our knowledge. She's a quick little thing. We enjoyed time at home and time with our families. Our Christmas Eve Communion service and Christmas Day sermon from the perspective of a shephard was very encouraging. It was truly a Christmas that left us all feeling especially blessed.

EK has a new bean bag and a whole new wardrobe...or maybe it just seems that way. She also has a recliner, a rocking chair, and a rocking lady bug. That only names a few. Don't worry. My OCD tendancies came out bright and early Monday morning and I've cleaned out and made room for the new. B and I are especially excited about our travel DVD system. Hello, peace in the car! We all received more than we needed. But we are very appreciative.

Our new years tradition continues in the next couple of days. Can't wait! Until then...enjoy the rest of 2011! Happy New Year!

Halleluja!!!!!

2011-12-15T17:52:00.000-08:00

I heart my job. But right about now, I heart a 2 week break better than anybody you know. Oh my. AND we still are having many sleepless nights around here. Those teeth may be the death of me. You'd never know she could be so ill, watching her sit quietly and watch A Charlie Brown Christmas right now. She rarely sits quietly. She rarely sits. But at the moment, she's looking oh, so sweet. We took her to see Christmas lights last Thursday night. She was in awe. It was great. She's great. And we love her. Even if she's cutting down on our sleep considerably.

Friday night, B and I left EK with his parents (thanks GiGi and Papa!) and went to dinner and a movie. Aaaahhhh. So nice. We worked around the house on Saturday. Then we started off family Christmas with the Bedsole's today. I'll try to upload pics to facebook later tonight. Tomorrow, my cheerleaders will be here for breakfast bright and early. I'm sure they'll be great entertainment. They always are. I have 11 gifts to wrap between now and then so...

Here's to a great week before Christmas.

And by the way, Neil, Dirty Santa Tag Teaming keeps a marriage strong ; )

It's Beginning to Feel A Lot Like Christmas

2011-12-06T19:32:00.000-08:00

We've been Christmas Partying it up around our house. 2 parties in 4 days=enough laughing to make my face hurt. Isn't that the best?

On Saturday night, we visited with B's friends. I personally think they're hilarious. So I was pretty excited. I also was excited about getting dressed for something other than work or church. They didn't dissappoint. Dirty Santa was GREAT. B and I tag-teamed and came home with some pretty good gifts. It was an enjoyable night. Thanks, Neil and DeAnn. I had a great time.

Tonight the elementary teachers had the annual "get together". WOW. My face hurts from laughing. It was so nice to get to socialize outside of the normal situation. Some of us even wore denim. That's not a big deal to some of you. But in Coffee County, you don't do blue jeans. Ever. So if I'm not going to work or church, I'm breaking out the blue jeans. Always. Tonight was no exception. I enjoy you ladies (and Coach Stephenson and Michael) so much. I left tonight feeling so thankful for the opportunity to work with you all. And I was honored to be a "ho ho girl"...I think.

So tonight I'm in the Christmas spirit. My tree is all lit up. My house smells like Christmas tree. And my heart is happy. Now, if only EK would sleep through the night again. Have a good week!

Sometimes I wonder...

2011-11-28T19:00:00.000-08:00

Where does the time go??? This has very possibly been the fastest year of my life. EK turned 1. Thanksgiving drifted by. Our house looks like Christmas already. And I feel like just last week we were getting ready for the first day of school. Do children do that to you? Either way, it's a blast. I just have to make extra effort to soak it all in. I can't even remember at the moment if I've blogged about EK's birthday. I think so?

Thanksgiving was nice. My families only get together a few times a year, but it's a blast when we do. It was fun to see each other. I hugged Rebecca when we were leaving (that's right Becca...you got a shout out on the blog) and said "see you next Thanksgiving". We all laughed. But I was serious. Getting to visit is a rare thing. We have to take advantage when we can. We left there and headed over to B's grandmother's. She lives in Jack, but we rarely get to see her. She reminds us of that often ; ) EK was in fine form. She kept everyone entertained and on their toes. Friday, we had lunch with my dad's family. We see them 3 times a year and it's always a good time. It was an above average Thanksgiving and we thoroughly enjoyed the break from our routine.

SO the Christmas tree is up. EK doesn't seem to care. She did bring me a Christmas ornament today from the tree. We had a fire in the fireplace tonight and she did well with that too. I hope I'm not speaking too soon. I was worried she'd take the tree out the first night. I got a wild hair and bought 2 live wreaths for our house. I'm not brave enough for a live tree. I'll let you know how the wreath endeavor goes.

If you do facebook, I posted the last of my pics tonight. Molly crunched on my camera for a while Saturday and it's busted. I wanted to do serious harm to her. I will not lie. I acted ugly and cried. Then I took 30 minutes of Hope time to recover. I get like that sometimes. Lately I get like that alot. Yes, B, I realize it too. I'm not patient. I never claimed to be. When my wreath fell off the back door for the 104th time tonight I wanted to throw it THROUGH the door. When I put up the hanger for the 105th time and realized I put it on upside down, I stomped my feet and screamed. I didn't, but I sure thought long and hard about it. I like to think of myself as laid back, but sometimes the little things get to me. It was that kind of afternoon. My husband did cook dinner and I'm getting to blog and enjoy the Christmas tree and the fire. So I'll let it go and be thankful. Here's to a week that's better than Monday and a husband that knows when I need a moment or 5.

Easy Like Sunday Morning

2011-11-13T08:21:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm a blog slacker. Football's been over for well over a week and I still haven't blogged. I've been tossing some blog ideas around in my head this week and I think I'll just combine them this morning. I've been reading all of my fellow facebookers' Thankful Posts. They make me think.

On a peaceful ride to Dothan Friday morning, I broke out an old Point of Grace cd and thought of all I'm thankful for. I'm thankful for a God who loves me enough to want His best for me and not MY best for me. I'm thankful that HE has much bigger plans for our lives than we can ever come up with on our own, although at times, I wondered what He was thinking. I'm thankful for a husband who is more than I could have ever asked for in a man. I'm thankful for a baby girl who makes my heart smile many times each day. I'm thankful for family that we're close to...in distance and in heart. I'm thankful for jobs at a school that we LOVE and for students, faculty, and administrators that we're happy to spend our days with. I'm thankful for a home that we enjoy and friends that we can pick up with even though the time we spend together is limited. I AM THANKFUL. I AM BLESSED. Life has far exceeded my expectations. Thank you, God. Life's not perfect. But it IS Good. And it's far more than I deserve.

Now for the day to day...we celebrated Ella Kate's first birthday last Saturday. It was great. We snuggled and played that morning and celebrated with family and a few friends that afternoon. She thoroughly enjoyed it. We were thoroughly exhausted. It was a good week at school. B and I get to ride together again except for basketball days. We're hoping to be amazed at what we save on gas. EK is no longer sleeping through the night and I may lose my mind if we don't correct this soon. She seems to be cutting 3 teeth at one time AND got 5 shots on Thursday. She's run fever on and off since then. Last night we were up for several hours. It was like having a newborn again. There was no relief. She's running fever again this morning. So we're having a quiet morning at home. She's still looking stinkin' cute in her ballerina pj's though. Happy Sunday. Hope you all have a great week.

Loving this time of year!

2011-10-29T12:39:00.001-07:00

If I had a sunroof, it would be open today. It is marvelous outside. We're hanging out at home today, getting some things done, but resting as well. Just what I needed.

On Tuesday I scored the deal of the century. EK and I set out for Opp after school to meet my mom and check out a dresser she found at a flea market. We walked in the door and there it was. My new dining room table. I wasn't looking for a dining room table. I have one already. But when we have people over, we don't all fit at the table. This table was larger and had more chairs. I needed it. So being the submissive wife that I am, I texted my sweet husband and told him to make room at home. No, really I asked his opinion/permission. My dad went back the next morning and picked it up. No, you can't have my other table. You see, one day I'm building a house with a breakfast nook and that table's going there. But I was super excited to find such a good deal.

EK hasn't been sleeping well which means mommy and daddy aren't sleeping well. With keeping such a busy schedule, it makes for a rough week. I have a first birthday party to finish preparing for this week, Pumpkins on the Square on Monday, fall festival on Thursday, football on Friday, and THE BIG DAY on Saturday. I'll keep you posted on how it all goes.

I completed my 5K this morning. I wasn't fast. But I didn't stop. However, I do have a funny for you. I wasn't going to share. To be honest, I'm embarrassed slightly. But B thinks this is hilarious and definitely blogworthy...SO. I've been to Brundidge, AL before, but only a few times, definitely not enough to know my way around. But I wasn't concerned because they had these neon green signs pointing the way on the race route. I would like to point out that they were only the size of a sheet of paper. Do you see where this is heading? Well because I am fairly slow, I started off in the back and did NOT attempt to keep up. My goal was only to complete the race. It was all good until we reached the center of downtown where the festival was set up. There was traffic. And a sign placed on a board on the sidewalk instead of the light poles like the rest. There was also a car at the intersection...blocking my view of the neon paper with the arrow pointing right. So I continued on. After running a short way, I realized this was NOT correct. But what to do????? I finally backtracked and found the sign and corrected my path. I finished the whole 3.1 miles and then some. I ran without stopping. I reached my goal. I even threw in a little humor for good measure. So if you spotted a runner in downtown Brundidge this morning running the opposite direction than the other runners, that would be me.

Happy Weekend!

Happy Friday!

2011-10-21T04:10:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week, but we like "busy". The alarm went off this morning, I moved Ella Kate into bed with Bradley and began my morning routine. There was no run this morning. It's CHILLY out there! I even slept til 6, or so I thought. Until I began to dry my hair and realized my watch in the bathroom said 5:20. And so did my phone. Somehow my clock jumped ahead an hour. But that's ok. It's giving me some needed quiet time to enjoy this morning. The rest of the day will be full speed ahead. There's ribbons and tattoos to be sold, 5th graders to educate, a pep rally to be had, cheerleaders to feed, and a ballgame to win. Sounds like a perfect October Friday to me. A win tonight puts our boys in the playoffs AND they will host. A loss knocks us out. We're for the WIN. AAANNNDDD...Our volleyball girls secured a trip to the state tournament with a win yesterday. We're proud of them! Congrats. While watching them, I found my body moving from side to side trying to play with them. Old habits die hard, maybe? Regardless, it was an exciting match.

I surprised my husband with a new lamp shade delivered right to our front door yesterday. He wasn't as excited as I thought he'd be. Marrying him cut down considerably on my "packages at the door". Normally, I can retrieve it and dispose of the evidence before he gets home, but we got here at the same time last night and I was caught. That's ok. My lamp is great. The little things in life...

Someone asked me a few weeks ago on a Friday how my day was. I said it was good; it's a Friday! I was informed that everyday is a great day. I thought about this afterwards. I concluded that everyday can be a "good day". Friday's kind of tip the scale for me. Friday's are "great days". Hope yours is great too.

4 Years Ago? Really?

2011-10-14T08:32:00.000-07:00

Four years ago, today, I was a nervous girl. You see, I had a date that night with a really cute coach from Highland Home. I'll spare you all the details, but I will tell you that neither of us ate much and he accused me of not making eye contact. 4 years later, he's at school awaiting tonight's big game and I'm at home with our 11 month old daughter. My, how time changes things. I am so thankful that God brought our paths together, B. You're the BEST husband and daddy EK and I could ever ask for. We love you BIG.

So Fall Break is drawing to a close and it's been a productive one. I have nearly finished the spare bedroom that I started at the beginning of summer, and we're making progress on ours. I'll try to post pics when we're done. I've made one haul to the Goodwill Store. B thinks I'd take everything we own to Goodwill if given the chance. I always threaten to clean out his closets while he's gone. I can't stand "stuff". So when I drop off at Goodwill I feel way more organized.

Ella Kate had a minor procedure on Tuesday to remove a skin tag she's had since birth. She had to be put to sleep for a few minutes. She was ill and hilarious all at the same time. Everything went well and so far she is unaware of the stitches in her ear...and that's a good thing. She's roaming everywhere! There is no containing her. And she's been sleeping late this week. She was playing in her crib when I got up this morning. She NEVER does that. EVER.

In closing: GO ZC! We want to be playoff bound after tonight. Hope to see all you ZC people in your purple in honor of Gin Miley AND hope you all have a great weekend!

No, I didn't quit.

2011-10-04T14:33:00.001-07:00

Where to start...where to start? We're still here. Just a little scattered. I survived Homecoming AGAIN. AND I think I was better at it this year. Experience is a good thing. Our yard was rolled. I guess they know where we live now. We don't care...but you better believe I'm going to be buying a good Halloween mask when they go on sale. If you're going to make a mess in my yard, I'm going to enjoy trying to scare the pants off you while you try :) It was a great homecoming at ZC. The weather was perfect. Everything ran smoothly. And we won. AGAIN. 5-1. I'm wondering when was the last time that happened in Jack. It's exciting times at ZC. We're so proud of our boys and EK and I are super excited for Daddy. You see, we think he's pretty great. We're blessed to be a part of the school and community and we're thankful to be there.

Moving along...EK will be 11 months old tomorrow. She is walking and jabbering up a storm. We have no clue what she says most of the time, but the girl means business. She causes lots of smiles and laughter at our house. This time last year I mentioned that I would run a 5K eventually. Well I "ain't done it yet" but I'm still chugging along a few mornings a week and I love it. It's become my "me time". I still can't believe it's almost been a year. I get asked often when we'll go for #2...ha. I still remember pregnancy #1. And I don't forsee those memories fading anytime soon.

I'm loving this time of year. The weather is GREAT. Our house is decorated. It smells like pumpkins and spice...and coffee. Yay for fall. It's the best. BUT the BEST part is coming next week. We refer to it at our house as Fall Break. And, oh, it saves my sanity.

Here's to you for not giving up on my blog. Here's to another ZC win on Friday. And here's to this marvelous time of year. Hope your week is extra, extra good.

She's growing TOO FAST!

2011-09-18T14:37:00.000-07:00

Our baby girl is 10 months old. If I told you it's "flown by", that could definitely be up for understatement of the year. I love you, Ella Kate.

I love how you get super excited when Daddy gets home from football.
I love how you'll let anyone carry you around at the ballgame when Mommy needs a break.
I love how your eyebrows arch like an upside down V.
I love how you laugh out loud...even though it's rare. It's GREAT.
I love that you took your shirt off last night because you were upset. Please don't continue to do this, but last night it was so funny.
I love how you want to eat and drink everything in sight.
I love how you "pat" us.
I love how you say momma when daddy tells you to say daddy.
I love how you snuggle in the mornings.
I love how you kiss with your mouth wide open.
I love how you growl.
I love how you attemp to share your paci with mommy and daddy in the mornings.
I love how you smack your lips as a way of blowing a kiss.
I love to see you read a book.
I love that books are your favorite toys. You're SO my child.
I love to see you make our other family members smile.
I love to see you smile.
I love YOU.

And I am so thankful for you. Daddy and I never thought we could love anyone so much.

Saturday, how I've missed you.

2011-09-10T06:49:00.000-07:00

So this is the day after...the day after when I wonder how I can let a high school football game get me so worked up. When I wonder, "did I really cheer until I'm hoarse and jump up and down in the stands?" This is what we do. This is our life for the next few months. And I want my husband and our kids to know what it's like to be successful. I want them to know that doing things the right way will be rewarded.

We're in our 3rd year at Zion. I have never been prouder to be there than I was last night. We have great kids. Let me assure you that we know they aren't all saintly. But you could search the world over and you wouldn't find a school with better kids. They were going into last night's game 2-0...the first time since 1985. Yes, really. They knew it would be an uphill battle. And they were right. But they never quit. And our fans backed them like I have never seen before. I won't complain about the officials, at least not on my blog. My mama said you never complain about the refs. But I WILL say that I wish life were fair. I wish people were fair. I wish everyone taught their kids to do things the right way. But life's not like that. It's a shame. I'm proud of our kids. I'm proud of the men that lead them. And I'm certain that one day doing things the right way will bring about success. I just have to remind myself that doesn't always equal a win. Sometimes success means a lesson learned, even if that lesson is "Life's not always fair."

So I'm putting that behind me. And I'm looking forward to this beautiful Saturday. Ella Kate spent the night with Papa and Gigi. I'm going to get her in a few minutes. We're going to spend the day watching football, eating pigs in a blanket, and being lazy. Sounds perfect doesn't it? I type that and feel slightly guilty as I think of a family up the street who's Saturday doesn't seem so "perfect" this morning. They're dealing with the death of a loved one. It makes me realize that we should cherish these "perfect" days and thank God for them. And I plan to.

We're still here.

2011-08-31T18:17:00.000-07:00

Isn't it time to burn the harvest scented candles???? Who cares that it's 99 degrees outside?! Not me. It's officially football season and that means fall candles at our house. Saturday will also usher in the season of cheese dip and pigs in a blanket: also known as Alabama football. Can't wait! Ella Kate has her Bama cheer suit ready to go. She also has a jersey and tiny little New Balances for when the temperature drops. Yes, we're ready.

Ready and exhausted. I know I say that often. But we ARE. It was 11:30 Friday night when we got home. For B, that was the first time he'd been home since 7:00 that morning. I did get to come home for a few hours in between...long enough to repack the diaper bag, feed EK, and dress us both. Thank goodness for the help our families give us. I would absolutely go insane without them. We have a precious aunt who keeps us in clean clothes on a weekly basis. She's great. Everyone should have one of her. That's what B says. We appreciate all of you, although we don't often say it.

Ella Kate is saying Bye Bye and Mama. We're working on Daddy. She just grins at us. Saturday I decided I would install the cabinet locks myself. It didn't go so well. Bradley took over after shaking his head at me. It took us an hour to install 2. So now 2 of our cabinets are baby proof. She's outgrown her baby carseat. Sad. She mocks us when we cough. Hilarious. She growls when you tell her no. Bad. But hilarious.

Life is good. We run around like crazy people. But it keeps things interesting. Here's to an extra nice Labor Day weekend. And another ZC win: 2-0...Here we go!

Going Home

2011-08-14T18:33:00.000-07:00

Bradley had football this afternoon, and my mom invited us over for the afternoon. She said I could nap and she would watch Ella Kate. We don't turn down offers like that.

I enjoy driving. It's about the only "down time" that I get. And I really enjoy driving home. It makes me feel good. It takes me back. It helps me remember so many good things about growing up. And it makes me thankful for where God's brought me to. My brother and I were texting last week about some things we remember from when we were at home together. I remember watching Reading Rainbow at my grandmother's after school, eating Better Cheddars, and drinking Pepsi. Jim remembers going to Opp on a Sunday afternoon to get the latest Billy Ray Cyrus single, Achy Breaky Heart. We both remember cruising in the green Sunfire to Kinston each morning, listening to Booty Mix 2. Memories. The smells of Sun Ripened Rasberry and cheerleader paints take me back to cheer practice. Gangster's Paradise and The Train send me straight back to a 10th grade pep ralley. And oh, the fall. There was nothing like a Thursday volleyball practice while the band practiced outside. I love going back.

There's nothing like home. There's nothing like sitting in the floor of my parents' living room where I've sat for years. But this time, I get to watch my baby girl play. Thank you, God, for where we've been. Thank you, God, for where we are. And thank you, God, for what you have in store for our future.

Ahhh...Saturday.

2011-08-06T07:53:00.000-07:00

Football's back. School's back. And I'm exhausted. It's a lot different having a coaching husband PLUS a child. He's been rolling up around 8 each night, which is typically her bedtime. This means I get to feed her, bathe her, chase her, etc. all by my lonesome. I just want to pass out when she falls asleep. I have a friend who does all this with 4 children. I am quite certain I would be insane. She's pretty good at it though. And I tell myself if she can do this with 4, surely I can handle 1. We'll get adjusted. It's just been a tough week.

I still got up and ran this week. I knew it would be a challenge to rise that early, but I did. It makes me feel much better.

Ella Kate has 2 teeth now. She was 9months old yesterday and is in the 90th percentile for length. She's everywhere and into everything. We clean up spilled drinks on a daily basis. You'd think we would learn not to put them within her reach. After my last post, she feel again the very next day. I won't say where she fell from, because I am sure I'd loose my nomination for mother of the year. But I won't do it again.

Well the sun is out and the pool is calling. I hope you all have a fabulous Saturday.

Gotta Take the Bad with the Good

2011-07-26T13:44:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I told you I don't blog on the bad days. I'll break the cycle for you. Last night I burned dinner...bad enough the B had to stop at Burger King on his way home from workouts. I didn't feel well so I took some meds before hitting the sack. They made me sick. At 2:30 this morning I was sick...very sick. After an hour or so I was able to go back to bed and felt better. B had 7 on 7 this morning bright and early so I put EK in bed with me to watch Mickey Mouse. I was a zombie. Obviously I dozed off. I did more than doze. The next thing I heard was Ella Kate as she hit the floor. She cried. I cried. She's ok. I have continued to feel sick all day. (No, I'm not with child, or I'm fairly certain I'm not.) So after feeding EK lunch, I dozed in the floor in the nursery while she crawled all over me. I thought that was safer than getting back in bed. Thankfully B is home for a few hours. And I am getting to rest. This was NOT how I intended to spend a day of my last week of summer. BUT...it could definitely be worse. On a happy note, I am still wearing pajamas and it looks like rain outside. Happy Tuesday.

10 Things

2011-07-21T16:33:00.000-07:00

I love a list so here we go:
1. Ella Kate has a tooth! It's barely peaking through those gums, but it's through. Thank goodness!
2. I saw a road the other day called "Snuffbox Road". Really?
3. Bradley and I celebrated our 3rd anniversary with a short trip to the beach this week. On our last night some intoxicated man asked us (about 15 times) if we would like to ride through Peir Park on his "golf cart" because it was a "promotional thang" and if his boss saw us riding it he would give him a "dollar or two". And he was eating "tomatoes and salt". We know this because he also informed us of this at least 5 times. It was funny at first and then became annoying. But the band was marvelous. As we were leaving they played "Love to Lay you Down" by Conway. I thought maybe someone had called ahead and told them I was coming. Love that song.
4. I worked in my room at school today. I am sad about leaving Ella Kate and going back to work. BUT I am thankful to have a job and enjoy my job SO I still get excited about the beginning of a new school year. Do the rest of you teachers feel this way?
5. I ran farther this morning than I've gone all summer. YAY! I am feeling really good about this running thing. Won't be long til I'm back in those clothes again.
6. I ate junk food for breakfast afterwards to celebrate.
7. Ella Kate now climbs my legs when we're getting ready in the bathroom.
8. I get super excited about a new magazine in the mail.
9. I read 2 books while at the beach this week.
10. This has been absolutely the BEST summer since I've started teaching. I don't want it to end. I plan to soak up every minute of my last week at home for a while with B and EK.

Reaching our goals...

2011-07-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

When school let out for summer, I had some goals. One goal was to read more...I've read 5 books and I'm about to start the 6th one. Another was to finish the spare bedroom...almost done. Redo our bedroom...well I've kind of started, but that's it. Run a 5K...not there yet, BUT I have been running 3 mornings a week. I'm at about 2 miles and it's getting easier. I may need to push that goal back to the fall. My biggest goal was to spend lots of time with EK and Bradley. We've been swimming, napping, and trying to find some sort of routine. We've grilled and had friends over. B's done some major work in our yards. I wish I had taken a before picture so you could see just how much. Our garage is clean and organized (for now). Yes, he's a handy husband most of the time. We're thankful for him.

Ella Kate is officially a crawler and we have officially started baby proofing everything. She is also pulling up and letting go. She's a little braver than I'd like her to be sometimes.

Today it's just EK and I. B's gone to an all-day meeting. Blah. She's napping right now and I'm trying to think of something we can get into the rest of the day other than shopping ; ) I'll let you know how that goes. Happy Hump Day!

Let's Be Honest

2011-07-05T06:11:00.000-07:00

I've been meaning to do this post for a week or so. Our life's been busy, but B has the week off from workouts and cheer camp is completed. And my July calendar almost looks blank. AND.....it makes me happy.

However, after reading some comments on our blogs, I realize that I make our life seem like we're ALWAYS happy and blissful and serene...you know what I mean. And it's not. Although we are happy, and do feel extremely blessed, sometimes life isn't perfect. In our Sunday school lesson last week, it mentioned how David was honest in his Psalms. He told it like it was. Sometimes it was good. Sometimes it was hard. And although I may not blog about the hard days, sometimes it IS hard. Sometimes we're mean. Sometimes we make mistakes. Sometimes it's 5:00 and I have nothing fixed for dinner. Sometimes we don't make time for each other like we should. Sometimes I forget to wash clothes and we have no clean underwear/shirts. Sometimes we argue about money. Occasionally we contemplate harming each other. Really. And the rest of you do too, if you're honest. But regardless of all that, we are enormously BLESSED. And we do love each other, even though there are times that we may not "feel" like we love each other. Sometimes love is a choice.

I hope that gives an honest representation of what life is like at our house. It's not always grand. But it is ALWAYS more than we deserve. And we are thankful.

Got My Toes in the Water...

2011-06-23T11:13:00.000-07:00

Tail in the sand

Not a worry in the world

Coke Zero in my hand

Life is good today

Life is good today.

It's been birthdays all around this week. Bradley turned 29 on Tuesday. We had a small celebration last Friday night to celebrate. It was supposed to be a surprise, but I don't do secrets well, so..................I told him. Early. Real early. Early as in the beginning of the week. It was lots of fun. I got to listen to lots of stories. Some I'd heard, some I had not. But we had a good time visiting and eating.

I turned the big 3-0 yesterday. Bradley told me we would go out to eat dinner. However, he texted me after practice and told me to hurry or we'd be late. When I got home, he had the truck packed, EK was with his dad, and we took off for the beach. It was BEAUTIFUL. I'm not sure I've ever seen the water so clear. We read, we talked. It was perfect. We enjoyed some good seafood and came home. I'm so thankful for him. And 30 is off to a good start!

In Pictures

2011-06-19T18:04:00.000-07:00

B's 1st Fathers' Day Card. All English teachers, please ignore my error.

A perfect Sunday afternoon: napping with Mommy.

Swimming Lessons: Look at me float!

A Day in the Life of Us

2011-06-14T19:32:00.000-07:00

Ella Kate doesn't care that it's summer. She's not sleeping in. We rise bright and early, fix a bottle, and lay back down with Daddy. She and I snuggle and play (She's EXTRA loving and happy in the morning) and then I box her in with pillows and leave her with B watching MickeyMouse Clubhouse. She loves it. I dress and head out to run because as Mickey says, "we all feel better when we mouse-kersize". I come back, pack her swimming bag, and jump in the shower. Some mornings we go seperate ways to swimming lessons and cheer practice. Some mornings we all go to swimming lessons. This week, we've also had VBS until 12. A busy morning doesn't bother me, as long as I can have a lazy afternoon. Today we all napped. It was ABSOLUTELY marvelous. Don't you love a good nap??? At night, B leaves us for workouts and EK and I spend girl time together. Tonight we played, ate dinner, pulled weeds, and had bath time. Bath time is great. She plays. I sit in the bathroom floor and read. It's my ME-Time. She's usually asleep by 8, so I stretch out in B's chair and have a Coke Zero. This may not seem exciting to you, but I love it. It's the simple things. I am so thankful for this life.

Ahhhhhhhhhhhh. Thank you, God.

Note to Self:

2011-06-08T16:42:00.000-07:00

A trip to the beach with a 7 month old may nor may NOT qualify as a "vacation". We left Sunday for a few days of "rest and relaxation" at the beach. We knew we would be traveling with a lot more "stuff" than normal. Our condo was on the beach to help with hauling all our supplies back and forth. We were prepared. We'd purchased a tent and plenty of sunblock. We were READY.

You're looking at these pictures and thinking how sweet..she looks so happy. But pictures can be deceiving. I only posted the happy photos. How come none of you mentioned to me that babies typically don't like the beach???? Or that babies typically don't do well when you move them to a new environment for a few days? Monday morning we were up bright and early. We had to give EK 2 bottles during the night Sunday night. We haven't done that since she was 2 months old! But to spare our neighbors the screaming fits, we gave in. We thought she'd take a good nap and we could head down to the beach. We thought wrong. No nap. By 11, we gave up, and went to the beach with NO nap. A mistake? Yes, probably. But we're new at this. After screaming for an hour, she napped on the beach. B suggested we call the sitter and ask her to drive down...immediately. Ella Kate didn't like the sand, the waves, or the heat. As soon as we took her in, she was fine. Tuesday was slightly better. I was a little more "organized" as we trecked to the beach. She played in the sand for a little while. The water was good as long as the waves didn't crash into us. She still didn't love it, but she was improving. Even though, it was the most exhausting "vacation" I have ever taken, it was fun and I'm glad we took her. I just hope she likes it better next year.

Our First Summer Begins...

2011-06-01T12:40:00.000-07:00

Ahhhhhhhhhh....summer. We can breathe. We can nap. We can grill. It is absolutely THE BEST. It makes my heart very happy. Ella Kate and Bradley are napping. I've just loaded the dishwasher and am taking a few minutes to blog and have a Coke Zero.

We kicked off summer last Friday with an early departure from school. Yay! We are so thankful to still have jobs, as many are not as fortunate this year. We loaded up and went to Gantt to celebrate the Memorial Day Weekend. It was like old times...reading, taking a tan, grilling all weekend long. Except this year, we have an addition. She's a sporty little thing. She keeps us on our toes. She didn't love the lifejacket, but she seemed to enjoy the boat. Uncle J joined us for the weekend. He deserted us in favor of people who stay up past 9 p.m., but we'll forgive him this time. We came back Monday around lunch. Everyone else napped and I started cleaning out closets. I still had maternity clothes in there...hoping I won't need those for a while. We rode to my parents' house for dinner, and crashed when we got in. Ella Kate slept all night without a peep for the first time in a week. I took it as a sign of good things to come. She started ISR swimming classes yesterday. She's not very keen on floating on her back. She's never very keen about being on her back...on land or water. But I think she'll get the hang of it. We don't have huge plans for the summer...a beach trip here and there, VBS, cheer camp, football workouts, etc. But regardless of what we do, we get to spend our days with Ella Kate. And that is what makes it marvelous. It's only been a few days, but I love it already.

My goals for the summer are to:

*Read-I've already finished 1 book and started a 2nd. Some are my choices; some were recommended by the kids in my class as possibilities for read-alouds for next year.

*Nap-I'll start working towards that one tomorrow.

*Re-do our bedroom- I have the "supplies". I just need to do it.

*Complete the other bedroom- We've been here 2 years, and I finally bought a comforter for that bed yesterday.

*Run- 5K anyone? I will complete 1 without stopping before school starts back in August. I'll be honest. I do it for the shirts. ; )

*Spend as much time with Bradley and Ella Kate as possible before the madness begins in August. I LOVED summers as a single girl. But it doesn't even come close to this. Welcome to "Our First Summer".

A Night to Remember

2011-05-15T14:05:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged in 2 weeks. Sorry. Summer's coming and maybe I'll do better. I could go back and try to catch up on all that's going on, but I can't remember. I just know we've been really busy. So I'll blog about this weekend and we'll go from here.

Friday night was ZC's spring game. The girls cheered and looked good! I enjoy them. They keep me entertained and they're such a positive bunch of girls. The boys played really well and it leaves us all excited about the coming football season. It was so nice to be able to sit and watch the football game without swollen ankles.

Yesterday, Bradley sat in the Walmart parking lot attempting to sell puppies. No luck. I'm becoming very concerned that we have 5 new additions to our family. VERY CONCERNED. Buy one. Please?

Last night my parents came up to watch Ella Kate while Bradley and I went to Luverne to run a 2 mile race. My goal was to finish. 2 miles is the most I've been able to do without stopping so far. There was a little girl (maybe 5 or 6) running with me. I told her I thought I was last. She informed me there was 1 person behind me, but she could see him and we should probably go faster. She also told me she knew a shortcut. Hilarious. It kept my mind off the burning in my legs and lungs. I did finish. And I didn't stop running. Yay! After having Ella Kate, I was unsure if I'd ever make it back to here physically. I gained ALOT of weight. So I'm really excited to be able to run. There's a 5K in June that I want to tackle. Maybe by then I can do 3.1 miles without stopping. So..........................the starting point for the race was at the church where we got married. It was also across the road from our first home together and my first home on my own. I miss the little apartment. Many memories there. We left the race and went to eat Mexican at the spot of our first date. Yes, we ate mexican on our first date. I told Bradley that I wasn't sure that a race and mexican qualified as a date, but it was sure was nice to eat and ride in the car AND be able to carry on conversation. And all the places brought back memories. It was a nice night. We saw several friends that we rarely get to see. I enjoyed catching up.

On a sidenote...EK was inthe 97th percentile for length last week at her 6 month checkup. "She get it from her mama".

Happy next to the last week of school!

I have a decision to make...

2011-05-02T14:29:00.000-07:00

Should I wear my 5K medal on tomorrow or save it for Friday???? That's right. I won my division. I debated on NOT telling all you people that I was the ONLY person in that division, but I was certain word would get out. I WAS the only 1, but I did complete the race...very slowly. But a finish is a finish. And I was excited.

It's 8:33. The kitchen is clean and the dishwasher's going. EK is asleep. I'm about to put on my PJ's. And I might just go on to bed. Oh, that sounds tempting.

I've been thinking on some ideas for future blogs. Let's just see if I can find the time to do it. Goodnight!

Mommmmmmmmm

2011-04-24T20:34:00.000-07:00

I thought you said this park was gonna be fun!

While we have a moment to breathe...

2011-04-23T20:14:00.001-07:00

let me catch you up on what's happening at the Bowers House. The end of another school year is fast approaching, and this means 2 things: 1. Teachers and students alike act/feel like nuts. 2. There are 948 things to do and/or get done. If you keep up with the AL legislature, let me give my opinion on some of the things coming up for discussion or a vote relating to education. Bradley and I both went into this because we love it. We never planned on getting rich. However, if you keep cutting our pay checks, we will have to take jobs at the Dairy Queen at night to keep up.

Bradley and our head coach met with a coach in Florida on Friday so EK and I went along for the ride. We dropped him off and took off to Pier Park. I watched her in the mirror as we pulled in. Her little eyes got so big as she looked up at the stores. She's SO my child. I told her I was feeling the SAME way. I knew I was in trouble when I spent the every bit of the $ I brought along to spend on her in the first store. She'll be looking cute though ; ) We spent the night and came back this morning. We dumped our bags and headed to the lake for the afternoon. So busy, but such a nice day.

D-Day is fast approaching. The 5K is Saturday and I'm coming to realize I will not be ready, but I will do what I can. I haven't reached my goal of running 3 miles without stopping. I'm not even sure I'll make 2. But I will finish...somehow.

Now, I'm sitting here in my new p.j.'s (simple joys) waiting for the Easter Bunny. On a serious note, Easter and sacrifice have taken on a whole new meaning since EK came along. It gives me a greater understanding of the greatness of the sacrifice while giving me less understanding of how you could love enough to sacrifice your own. One of my students said Thursday that Good Friday wasn't at all good. Oh, but it was. It was perfect for us...just what we needed. I will try to remember to take Easter pictures, but I make no promises. I never remember my camera. If I do take them, maybe I'll find another spare minute to post them.

Hope your week is full of moments that make you smile.

Road Trip!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-04-10T17:55:00.000-07:00

One of B's friends got married in Birmingham yesterday, so we booked a room, loaded up half our home, a babysitter, and headed north. Ella Kate's got a nasty cough and the medicine I gave her yesterday morning put her out for most of the trip. That was unintentional, but it did make for an easy ride. We took our time, stopped for breakfast at Cracker Barrel, and then hit the Galleria. Our friend, Andrea, came to meet us for a little while. So we visited and shopped. Ella Kate walked away with all the purchases for the weekend. They tell me that's just the way it is. I "really needed" a pair of shoes for the wedding so we searched Birmingham over for a Shoe Carnival. (I found a pair in Dothan, but they were out of my size.) We located one and set out for it...drove "all the way around Birmingham" according to my husband and guess what. No Shoe Carnival. So we got all checked in, set Cheyenne and Ella Kate up for a night in, and got ready for the wedding. We knew we were cutting it close on time, but the GPS had us arriving with minutes to spare...until we ran up on that DETOUR sign. We still made it. Finally found the entrance to one of the prettiest churches I have ever seen, and enjoyed a very sweet ceremony. The wedding and reception were beautiful. And it was nice to get all dressed up and not have spit up or baby food on my clothes. EK slept fairly well in bed with us on our full size bed. Bradley, however, was a different story. As was I. Around 3ish I heard our neighbors, obviously arriving back from a hopping reception, shouting "Roll Tide" in the hall. Ella Kate paid them back around 6 this morning. As we passed them checking out, I tried to work up the nerve to greet them with a "Roll Tide" but couldn't. Bradley would have scolded me anyway. We took our time coming home and Ella Kate and I caught a nap after we got all unpacked back at home. She's now sitting with Bradley and wearing nothing but a diaper. She thinks she's in heaven. We have plans to see some Crenshaw County folks later in the week and I am pumped. I miss them ; ) most of them. And it's always nice to visit. Hope you all have a week that you're looking forward to as well.

1-10

2011-03-28T17:09:00.000-07:00

1. B had eye surgery a week ago. He was seeing 20/20 in Tuesday. 2. My daddy was sent to Flowers the night of B's surgery with really high blood pressure. 3. Heart cath on Tuesday. 4. I was in the middle of testing. 5. I'm also low on sick days. 6. B scratched his eye on Thursday. 7. I admire single parents. 8. When it rains it pours (sometimes it hails). 9. I am driving a minivan to school tomorrow. 10. I still love my life and a good LIST.

I Heart Spring Break!

2011-03-19T13:22:00.001-07:00

It's Saturday afternoon. We're at the lake (AKA: Gantt Beach), EK is napping in the floor, B's outside, and I'm laying on the couch looking out at the water. This is BLISS. Putting on my swimsuit for the first time was NOT bliss. Not even close. But we won't talk about that. We decided late yesterday afternoon to ride over and spend the night. So we packed up everything but the kitchen sink and headed this way. Seriously, our car was packed. EK screamed most of the way and I was wondering what we were thinking. I also wondered that this morning at 2 a.m. when she was providing birth control for the entire RV park. But since then it's been smooth sailing.

Spring break is almost over. Tear. Oh, how I look forward to summer so we can spend our days home with Ella Kate. She's so much fun right now! I just picked her up because she woke up and she's attempting to help me blog. I'll have to make this short. We've accomplished a few things this week. Those include: making hair bows, cleaning out the guest bedroom (anyone else feel like you do that every other month or so????), putting up EK's 0-3 month clothes, and grilling...a lot. It's been a great week and this weekend is shaping up nicely as well. Happy Saturday!

A Little Lesson

2011-03-15T19:01:00.000-07:00

In honor of all the testing that will take place next week, let's do a little lesson on Plot. Plot is: the events in a story/selection (usually in order). To keep things simple we'll do a BEGINNING, MIDDLE, and END.

BEGINNING

MIDDLE

END! We are loving spring break! EK had her 4 month checkup yesterday. She was in the 90th percentile on length/height and 50th on weight. She's currently weighing in at 13 lbs. We started baby food yesterday and if she's not loving it, who cares! We think it's hilarious. She does love it so far. I started her on carrots because I've always secretly wanted a baby with an orange nose. They're so cute!

We're looking forward to enjoying the rest of our week. Hope yours is excellent.

The spring break countdown is ON.

2011-03-07T19:14:00.001-08:00

Can I vent? I promise to keep it short. I spent my entire planning time on the phone this morning trying to find out when and why my house is now in a High Risk Flood Zone (according to our mortgage company). It IS in a flood zone, but not a high risk area. It's been over 20 years since it flooded, but all of a sudden we're high risk! This means (according to the mortgage company) that my flood insurance premium will go up when I renew. That's just peachy. As I tried unsuccessfully to look at a flood map online, I called FEMA and was told they couldn't disclose my flood zone over the phone. REALLY? UGH. I came home to find a service charge had been taken out of our account...no one knows why. No one mentioned it when we opened the account. Oh, but wait! We listed the account wrong. Let us fix that. Oh. My. Gosh. You people are making me insane. I'm normally not this "fussy". I need spring break. REALLY. BAD.

Ella Kate and I have been hanging out tonight. Bradley's driving a bus for the baseball team. We miss him, but you all know how I love some Hope time. EK has cut into that quite a bit lately. So tonight, she was in bed by 8:15 and I'm blogging from the recliner. Aaaaahhhhhh. AND I had a frozen pizza. Bliss. All I lacked was a new magazine.

Saturday was a perfect rainy day. We need rainy days sometimes. It's like it gives us "permission" to rest. I attended the 4th-6th grade dance on Saturday night. All I have to say is it was definitely a "party in the USA". We had lunch at Bradley's maw maw's yesterday after church. I heard some of the funniest stories as they sat around and shared. I'm still laughing about them today. After visiting, we came home and laid around. I cleaned a little too. Last night we ate Mexican, just the 3 of us. Ella Kate did so good this weekend. She slept through the night every night (a change from last week...don't know what the deal was). And she was extra happy. We LOVE her so much. Her little personality gets bigger every day and it's so much fun!

I will attempt not to complain/vent any more this week. At least not on the blog. I hope you all have an extra good week. 4 days to spring break! That's enough to make anyone smile.

A Marvelous Monday

2011-02-28T15:34:00.000-08:00

I think I'll start with my funny story for the week: Almost everyday this year that I've been by the office after school, there's been a man sitting in there with a FedEx jacket on. So I assumed he was the FedEx man...taking a break? I wondered why he sat in there EVERYDAY. Then last week, I saw the FedEx man walking toward the nurse's office (in a different building). And he was NOT in uniform??? I have since learned he is definitely NOT the FedEx man. He is a student who is obviously a Denny Hamlin racing fan who sports a FedEx jacket on a daily basis. This may not be funny to you. But I thought it was hilarious.

Ella Kate is "talking"! She's making so many sounds. We love it. She'll be 4 months old on Saturday. Where has the time gone?

B now has football a couple days a week, and I am on break from cheerleading. So I get to come home each and every afternoon. It's marvelous. Speaking of marvelous...here's a short list of other things that I've been finding marvelous lately:

1. That hour after EK goes to sleep before I go to sleep.
2. Mexican food when I don't want to cook
3. Being able to complete yet another week in Couch to 5K
4. The tanning bed. I know it's bad. But it feels SO good and it makes me SO relaxed. And if the running doesn't make me skinnier, the tan will make me appear that way.
5. Sharing cheesecake with Bradley before bed
6. This lovely weather
7. Riding home from school with the sunroof open and the radio REALLY loud

Have a "marvelous" week.

Plain 'Ole Life

2011-02-15T19:04:00.000-08:00

My sweet husband just informed me that I haven't blogged in over a week. So here we go. Life just hasn't been extremely exciting lately. It hasn't been bad. I just didn't think you'd be interested in making bottles, washing bottles, cleaning house, going to work, etc.

Ella Kate turned 3 months old a few weeks ago. Those teeth I mentioned a month ago...they have yet to come through. But she's been a trooper. For the last week, we've been able to lay her in bed, turn on the mobile, and she's put herself to sleep. It's SOOO nice for us. She doesn't fight us. And we're getting more sleep. I even got to sit down tonight and enjoy a really, really cold can of Coke Zero. I have an addiction. I like my caffeine cold. VERY cold. And it was extremely good. When Bradley and I got married, we drank Mt Dew. I think we did that for a while. But we began to grow. So we decided to make the switch. (I still enjoy a Mt Dew, just not on a daily basis.) Speaking of growing or lack thereof...I've lost more weight and I am thrilled. We're on Week 3 of the Couch to 5K. I was beginning to think I might not ever get back in my clothes. But I just might make it.

Bradley is now a proud member of the 32 oz club at Santa Fe. Why on earth he wanted to do this, I will never know. He's mentioned it the past several times we've eaten there. And with a little encouragement from his parents (as well as financial support...they bought dinner), he gave it a try Saturday night. Who cares that it took him 3 hours to finish eating???? He got a shirt AND his picture on the wall. It didn't take 3 hours...but it seemed like it. Ella Kate needed some fresh air about halfway through the steak. She and I took a little trip outside. I also had steak, but don't recall eating it. That's called multi-tasking. I'm learning that it's also called being a mommy.

I'll close with some sad news about a co-worker who went to the ER Friday was a week ago in pain. She found out last Monday that she had Stage 4 Colon Cancer and spots on her liver. She left the hospital Sunday after making the decision not to take any life prolonging measures. She passed away yesterday. I never got to know Mrs. Mozzo very well. But I knew her well enough to realize she was a very interesting woman. And well enough to know she would have chosen no other way to go. I listened to the other teachers share stories about her after hearing of her passing yesterday. They said she always said if they had her a retirement party, she wouldn't come. ..that when she left that school, she wanted to walk out and never look back. And isn't that how it happened? I'm certain that's the way she left this world. Listening to them share stories about her makes me wish I'd taken the time to get to know her better. Keep her family, friends, and students in your prayers. Many of them are having a tough time with this loss.

May you take notice of the simple blessings in life this week.

Aaaahhhh. Rest, how I've missed you.

2011-02-06T16:01:00.000-08:00

Ooooh, life is good. It's Sunday night. We have pigs in blanket. Ella Kate's napping. Our house is fairly clean. Our patio is clean. AND we ran this afternoon. I feel thinner already! I will be honest. I thought my lungs were collapsing a few times. But Bradley kept pumping me up and I didn't quit. He told me I need to take longer strides. I'm not sure he realizes that I'm way shorter than him. I just gave him "the look" and kept running.

Yesterday, we had a date day in Dothan. We ate breakfast together and made a Sam's run. I needed that day. I became very aware of that on Friday night when I pulled up to the garage after the ballgame and remembered that I was supposed to pick up supper in town. So I turned the Acadia around and went back for our dinner. Sleep hasn't been great for the last week or so. Ella Kate's been waking up in the early morning hours and having to be rocked back to sleep. The last 2 nights have been WAY better though. Maybe we're getting back to normal. I apologize to Tessa for falling asleep while she was here last night. I told you people I'm tired!

Let me leave you with a funny for the week: On Tuesday I told my kids to look Wednesday morning to see if the groundhog saw his shadow (the 1st grade teacher in me was trying to get out). I had 1 very concerned young man because there are NO GROUNDHOGS around his house! I told him I guessed he'd have to watch for it on the news.

Have an extra good, snuggly, cozy kind of week.

Exercise and Stuffy Noses

2011-01-31T14:59:00.000-08:00

I continued on my Couch to 5K plan on Saturday. I am, however, still on Week 1. And it's raining...this does not motivate me. at. all. April 2nd is D-Day. I will run in that race. Somehow.

Bradley's asleep on the couch, EK is asleep in her bed, and my eyes are also feeling heavy. We were all up at 3:30 a.m. fighting with a stuffy nose. She's finally asleep this afternoon. We're trying to let her sleep on a wedge, hoping it will help her breathe better and sleep longer. We are exhausted. My sweet husband rocked her for the 3rd time this morning and slept with her on his chest in the recliner until time to get up. I took the first 2 rounds. He's a good daddy, and I appreciate him so much.

It's poppy seed chicken for supper (made it last night). I feel so accomplished that it's already done. It doesn't take much to excite me. I know some of you are wondering if I'm really going to eat that stuff all mixed together. I absolutely am. I've been branching out lately. You should all be impressed.

May each one of you get the kind of week you're wishing for. Me. I'm just living for the nights at home and the weekend, and counting down the days until basketball season ends. And I see the light at the end of the tunnel. I need a BREAK!

2011-01-25T15:11:00.000-08:00

Monday was bus re-certification (not a blast, but still a day off...kind of), today was 4H (yes, Joni, I needed it more this week), and tomorrow I have a guest from AMSTI coming to do some lessons with my kids. I MUST be living right. ; ) On a funny school note, my kids traced their shadows all over the parking lot on Thursday and it looks like there was a massacre out there. They thought it was great. Then we played shadow challenges. Can you make your shadow shake hands with another shadow? They were hilarious. I love my job.

Ella Kate threw a small fit one night last week and I noticed what I thought were teeth on her bottom gums. But I thought, "there's no way". Sunday morning when we picked her up from the nursery, the lady mentioned them to me. Ok, so maybe I'm not losing my mind. This baby girl who will be 3 months old next week is getting 2 teeth. And soon. She's been sleeping through the night for well over a month now, but last night, that was absolutely NOT the case. We were up every 30-40 minutes or so. I finally realized that she had a slight fever. So when I decided to break out the Tylenol at 4:30 (finally!), things went a little better. She was still asleep when I left for school. I wanted to still be asleep too.

She's asleep in her swing right now and I'm already in my pj's. It's not even 5:30. Don't you love it? I'm not a fan of winter, but it does have some perks. Being cozy is one of them. I'm hoping that husband of mine will whip us up some hamburger steaks for supper. That or pancakes. I'd take either one. I think I'll catch a nap while I wait......

When am I supposed to breathe?

2011-01-18T19:55:00.000-08:00

I just put that precious baby girl to bed, and to say I'm tired is the understatement of the year. AND I was off yesterday! We had yet another ballgame tonight. And we are hosting a competition on Saturday. My brain and my body feel like they're running in a hundred directions. I have NEVER been IN a cheerleader competition, TO a cheerleader competition, and certainly have never HOSTED one. I have watched one on TV. But we'll survive. The shirts are cute ; ) That's what matters, right? Thanks Tessa!

Bradley's up for Husband of the Year. He comes home, feeds and dresses EK (she matches too!), packs the bag, and brings her to the game so I can see her at least for a little while. I don't know if I'd consider it "quality time" but it's better than no time at all.

I was all pumped this morning because today was "4H Day". I even told B when we were getting ready that if I owned a shirt that said, "I Heart 4H" I'd wear it today. I get to sit and enjoy my whole afternoon and listen to the 4H lady give her spill 3 times. It's great for catching up. 4H Day was arriving just in time. Would you believe the schedule was wrong????? I NEEDED 4H Day. And it's not until next week. How sad.

I promise to blog after this weekend when I get a moment to catch my breath. Hope you're all doing well. Happy Hump Day tomorrow!

Disclaimer: if anything is spelled incorrectly or does not make sense, please don't hold it against me. I'm THAT tired. Really.

A Warm Heart on a Cold Morning

2011-01-12T16:02:00.000-08:00

Does this really need words?

Back to work we go...

2011-01-05T18:16:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, I thought I just might not make it through the day on Monday. It was going to be my first day back. My first day away from Ella Kate. I almost lost it in church Sunday morning. I fought tears all through the service. I didn't want to be away from her. But I also have this fear of something happening and I have this false sense that I can keep anything from happening. I know the truth is that I have no control over things. But I like to feel as if I do. The sermon was so good for me. It reminded me that I have to trust. And it's been a good week. After a small breakdown on Sunday night when I didn't want to bathe her because I didn't want her to go to sleep (she goes to bed after her bath), Monday was a good day. All of you must have been praying for me. If you were, I appreciate it so much.

I am EXHAUSTED. All these ballgames are killing me. I also had to take EK to get shots Thursday in Dothan. Can't I just have a holiday? I'm hoping tomorrow will be one. I think that would improve the dark circles forming under my eyes.

Ella Kate was 2 months old Wednesday. Wow. Wasn't she just born last week? She is:

*sleeping through the night and has been for a few weeks

*taking 6 4oz bottles a day

*smiling and cooing, especially at her daddy

*wearing 0-3 month clothes, but is getting ready to move up. She's a LONG girl! We might could keep wearing the 0-3 month clothes, but I'll have to cut the feet out of her sleepers. She's gonna be tall like her momma, huh? ; )

*11lbs 10 oz and 24.5 inches long

I'm enjoying my kids at school. I love them. But I love them even better when I've had a break. Hope your week goes well and lots of things make you smile.

A Gathering of Friends

2010-12-29T17:37:00.000-08:00

I got to visit with 3 good friends on Monday for a few hours. Between the 4 of us, there were 9 children and 1 on the way. And I am NOT the one with one on the way. Thank goodness. (I feel sorry for all pregnant people after my pregnancy experience. She was worth it, but it was terrible.) Breakfast was really good. You get an A+ for the monkey bread, Kaci. I wanted to eat way more, but the rest of you didn't, so I refrained.

After visiting I was thinking about how far the 4 of us have come. Life sure hasn't turned out like any of us thought many years ago in high school or even college. It's WAY better. I think we would all attest to that. I'm sure that 11-12 years ago, we never would have pictured ourselves sitting around feeding babies and discussing important things like how our bodies have changed and how hard motherhood is. We did all agree that it's all absolutely worth it.

You girls mean so much to me. We rarely get to visit, but I think the world of you. I hope you all felt as blessed and thankful as I did when I left Monday.

I hope all you readers are blessed with friends that you trust. They're definitely priceless.

Ella Kate's First Christmas

2010-12-26T15:54:00.000-08:00

We've done nothing today but lay around in bed or in front of the fire. I'm still in my pajamas and it's almost 6:00. Sounds like the perfect day, doesn't it? I have a new book to read, compliments of Santa Bowers, but I haven't even cracked it open. I did vacuum and sweep. So it's not like I haven't done something productive.

Christmas takes on new meaning with a baby. In the days before Christmas, I was listening to my Christmas cd in the car one day. I began to think about Mary. I can't imagine the emotions she was feeling. It amazes me that the Savior we needed came in the form of that tiny baby. I became overwhelmed by the thought that God was willing to sacrifice His child to cover our sins. We love our baby girl more than life. It's unexplainable. It makes God's sacrifice for us seem so much greater than I've ever realized.

Ella Kate had a busy Christmas. If she's not exhausted, her mommy is. I love a good routine, and lots of visiting throws a kink in that. EK got loads of stuff. I feel the need to clean out her nursery to make room for the new clothes. She's going to be a well dressed baby, no doubt. She also got a mobile for her crib, a baby rocking chair, and a few books. We started a few traditions. These include, but are not limited to the following ; )

Sleeping in the living room floor on Christmas Eve Eve and watching a Christmas movie. This year we chose Christmas vacation because we should watch it before she's old enough to repeat the words.
New PJ's
Making Christmas cookies (my mom always did this with us)
Reading the Christmas story
Receiving a new Christmas book

I'm sure we'll add to these as time goes on.

I'm back to work a week from tomorrow. Does this make anyone else nauseous or sad? Because that's exactly how I feel. I don't want to be away from her. I'm looking at her right now laying beside me on the couch in her bunny rabbit sleeper and wondering if I'll cry all day Monday or just that morning. I'm leaning towards all day. My husband says it's fine if I don't go back, because my car can "go back" and our house can "go back". I'm sure I will survive. She's going to be staying at our house, and for some reason this gives me a little peace about leaving her. Wow, I'm tearing up just blogging about it. All you people without children think this is nuts. I know. I was one of you for 29 years. But it all changes, and fast.

Tomorrow, I get to see some really good friends for brunch. It'll be nice to visit and catch up. I'm looking forward to it. I plan on making the most of this week I have left. I'm going to be completely organized and skinny when I return next week. I may be an emotional wreck, but I'm going to look good and know where my stuff is. ; ) I'm kidding about both.

Maybe I'll blog again before I return to work, because the chances of it happening the week I go back aren't good. Did I mention there are 3 basketball games that week???? So not only do I have to spend the days away from EK, 3 of my nights will be the same way. My husband promises to come home and get her so I can see her.

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas. May your new year begin as one filled with promise.

Happenings at the Bowers House

2010-12-15T17:52:00.000-08:00

Lots to share...sit tight.

Ella Kate has officially moved into her crib. Last night was her first night sleeping there instead of in the cradle by our bed. After moving her things over yesterday, I felt like there were 2 good options: move it all back or sit and cry. I pulled it together and did neither. I told myself we would all sleep better. And SHE did...from 8:45 until 4 a.m. to be exact. Her mommy, however, kept thinking something was obviously wrong when she didn't get up at 1. Or 2. Or 3. Or 3:30. She was still breathing though. I checked.

Today she and I took off to order B's Christmas present and visit friends in Luverne. Oh, I miss all those people! They were all so very good to me for the 5 years that I lived there. And always lots of fun. We enjoyed the simple things when I worked there like rearranging Heather's desk after school (many times), sending children to other teachers for no reason at all (almost daily), and putting sexy Halloween costume catalogues in Shea's mailbox (only once...don't tell her. I never confessed to that one). I'm not brave enough to try that at my new job...give me a little time ; ) It was good to see every one of you!

I started my "From Couch to 5K" this week via the treadmill. It wasn't bad yesterday...I didn't pass out or anything. I did almost fall off the back when I attempted to remove my sweatshirt (I had on another shirt) while the treadmill was still moving. I would have been fine if it hadn't gotten hung around my head. But I did not fall...only stumbled.

I'd like to end by telling you what little I have permission to share about B's P90X experience from Monday night. I will only say that it involved resistance bands, a door, and a gigantic red mark across his chest. I only heard about it and saw the mark. If I had seen it happen, I would still be in the floor. laughing.

Ella Kate and I can't wait for daddy to be home with us for a few weeks. Have an extra nice "rest of the week".

The New Normal

2010-12-07T10:08:00.000-08:00

4 WEEKS! That's all I have left at home with this sweet baby girl. We're making the most of every cold day by staying in our p.j.'s and napping a lot. We also gaze at the Christmas tree and read on occasion. If I knew how to build a good fire, I'd do that too. But I don't. So we just crank up the heat. She's growing SO fast. I've asked her to slow down a little. She just looks at me like I'm crazy. She gives us all that look. She doesn't know what to think this morning because, apparently, no one loves her. Both of her granddads have been by to rock her this morning and it's only 12:00. ; ) She'll probably get nothing for Christmas either. What are we going to do?

I went back to the doctor yesterday. Everything looks good. She said I could start running 3 miles a day whenever I'm ready. I've lost over 30 lbs! Yay! I'm embracing the fact that if I don't get back into my clothes, it just means I can buy new clothes. Looks like a win/win to me. I did some Christmas shopping after the appointment. Then I sang really loud on the way home. Ella Kate was at BB's house and I was excited to be feeling normal again...you know...real clothes, make-up, hair fixed (does a ponytail count?), DRIVING...etc. I even walked on the treadmill and tanned (a little too much) when I got home.

You'll all be happy to know that our clothes have been on the right way and I haven't been in public with my pants undone this week. Maybe we're getting the hang of this.

2010-12-01T09:08:00.001-08:00

I may be a little "all over the place" with this post. Because I feel a lot "all over the place".

I'll back up a few days and tell you that Miss Ella Kate has decided she is NOT all about going to sleep. She's ok if you can get her there, but she doesn't like the journey. So we had a few rough nights. At some point Bradley and I sang "The Ballad of Curtis Lowe" to her because you can only sing Jesus Loves Me and Away in a Manger so many times. It didn't work either.

She and I took a little drive about 2 a.m. on Monday night. We cruised for quite a while. It finally worked though. Sweet sleep for mommy and EK...at least for several hours.

Last night we decided to let her cry a little. After reading something a sweet friend put on facebook about her child, I decided it would be ok and I would not be the worst mother in the world. I checked on her and talked to her every 5 minutes. It worked! Yay! She slept so good too. Thank you, Teri.

Bradley and I had a date last night. It's the first time we've been in a restaurant since Ella Kate arrived. I only called twice to check on her (we only went to Enterprise). You know you're and old married couple when you get pumped about going to eat and going to Walmart. Bradley informed me he might be married, but he is NOT old. We decided to dart into Lowes before going home. We'd been in there for about 5 minutes just looking around when I realized my pants were unzipped AND unbuttoned. I'd done that when we left Walmart because my incision was hurting. And I completely forgot. If my shirt were covering it, I wouldn't be so embarrassed. But it wasn't! So if you saw me walking around Lowes last night with my pants undone, it wasn't because we were fooling around in the car (I'll get scolded for putting that on here.) It was because a lack of sleep causes you to forget things...even simple things.

We're getting into somewhat of a routine. We spend our mornings snuggling and looking at the Christmas tree. I can't think of a better time to be home with a sweet baby girl. When we finally get to sleep at night, we're only getting up 1 to 2 times to eat. She's a good baby. Having a newborn is just hard. But it's worth every second. And we're so thankful. I know I say that alot, but there's something about experiencing this life changing event that makes you pause and take in all the blessings in the world around you.

Thankful.

2010-11-24T10:15:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for:

1. Grace. Because I don't deserve any of the blessings I'm about to list. But God loves us and gives us things we are very undeserving of.

2. The husband I hear talking to our baby girl in the kitchen. I can't tell you enough how blessed I am to have him for a husband. There are no words. He's not perfect. I'm not perfect. But we love each other, and I absolutely believe God created us for each other. I am now listening to him sing Purple Rain. I may be forced to delete that last part...enjoy it for now.

3. Our baby girl who we think is the prettiest and sweetest baby we've ever laid eyes on. We love her more than we can express. She fills our hearts. Even at 4:30 a.m. when we're swaying in the bathroom with her in one arm and the hair dryer going in the other...not because I was drying my hair. But because we've discovered it can put her out like a light. We'll do anything to sleep a little while.

4. Our families who have come to the rescue more than a few times in the last 2 and a half weeks. We are more than blessed.

5. Our home that we love. It seems so much smaller with 100,000 baby things everywhere. But we still love it.

6. Our jobs at a great school with really good kids and co-workers.

Dear God, we are more thankful this year than ever. You are more than GOOD. We are more than BLESSED. Ella Kate and I have been singing the following as we rock in the wee hours of the morning. I thought it was fitting.

How GREAT is our God
Sing with me
How GREAT is our God
And all will see how GREAT
How GREAT
Is our God.

You'll soon discover...

2010-11-20T17:51:00.000-08:00

Here is the sweetest card ever...very true:

Things you'll soon discover with your new baby girl:

That raising your own princess beats any fairy tale.

That a lot of great big people can be wrapped around one tiny finger.

That a toothless smile can light up the world like instant sunshine.

That watching her sleep is (sometimes) more satisfying than finding sleep yourself.

And most of all...that there's no greater joy than having a little girl to love.

I LOVE this baby girl more than I ever thought possible. Thank you, God for blessing us with her.

EKB: Week 2

2010-11-17T07:01:00.000-08:00

LEARNING. That's what we're doing around here. It's getting better and better. Our baby girl is getting up only a couple of times during the night. However, at least one of those times, it takes me about an hour and a half (at least) to get her back down. By the time I doze off again, it's time to eat...AGAIN. She's gained back to her birth weight, and then some. She's already out of newborn clothes! Does anyone else think that's sad??? People told us "there's nothing like this". I never quite understood. Until now. There is absolutely NOTHING like the love I have for EKB and the love that grows more than I thought possible as I watch Bradley be the sweetest daddy. He didn't even get upset when I got up, turned his alarm off this morning, and went back to bed. Why? Sleep deprivation? I have no idea. He made it to work on time anyway, but it did make him a little rushed. One more story: Last week one morning I kept wondering why B had a string hanging out of the back of his pants. It took me a while but I figured it out. His pants were on backwards. He had no clue. The next morning I finally got back in bed and B told me he liked my shirt. I thought he was picking at me for wearing his shirt to bed. He then told me it would look even better if I didn't have it on backwards. We literally haven't known if we were coming or going. But things are improving.

We have a new stroller!!!! Yay! We're bundling up at lunchtime and going for a walk. I still cannot drive and I have GOT to get out of this house. I have been out a few times. My mom has been driving us around. Bradley and I take Ella Kate back to the doctor Friday. If all goes well, it will be nice for the 3 of us to get out.

EK is asleep for now and I need to sleep at least for a little while. Hope you're having an extra happy kind of week.

The First Few Days

2010-11-11T13:57:00.000-08:00

Ella Kate slept all night last night. I got up and went for a 3 mile jog. Then I came home and put on my pre-pregnancy jeans, cooked pancakes and sausage, and sat down to thumb through a magazine. Really. No, I figure those days are over. But I do hope to accomplish some of those things again. Probably never all in the same day/week/month.

Let me give you the "details" from our hospital stay. I was all good til they escorted us to our room Thursday night. I was unaware that it was to be my delivery room. But quickly became aware as I saw the spotlights aimed at my bed. It was then that I considered going back to the car and going home. We settled in and they started some medicine to prepare me for Friday. We didn't know it, but I was having contractions 2 minutes apart when we arrived. They weren't strong, but oh, they became stronger. I started an IV sometime around 1 Friday morning and kept it until lunch Saturday...hence the still swollen ankles/hands/etc. Friday progressed normally. I was at 3 cm around 10 when I decided I needed an epidural. (if you don't want these details, stop reading...I want a record of all this) I got to 5 that afternoon sometime and stayed...and stayed...and stayed. And around 8:30 that night our doctor decided it was time. I definitely didn't prefer a c-section. But when we heard her size, I'm glad it ended up that way. Also for memory's sake, I'd like to say that in honor of our Friday night traditions, we listened to a high school football game right up until time to go into surgery.

Bradley became locked out of the hospital at midnight because his drugged up wife was determined that we hang Ella Kate's sign on the door. I don't recall any of this, but being the good husband that he is, he braved the cold and went to the car. He returned to the door to see the sign that our entrance closed at 11 and he walked around Flowers Hospital to the ER entrance.

Monday night was ROUGH. I thought I was losing my mind. She was crying. I was crying. But it's gotten better each day. Feedings are rough, but we've come up with a plan that's working for now. Our baby girl has been quite content. She eats, then sits and looks around for a while, then she sleeps for a while. We had a great dirty diaper incident this morning. It was hilarious. Making memories..................this afternoon has been marvelous. Just some good down time for the 3 of us.

Our families have been more than generous with their time. We will never be able to repay them for all they've done for us. Our friends have been so good to us, checking on us, and offering encouragement. Our church family has provided 2 meals for us and it has been a huge help. We feel so loved and so blessed. We wanted our baby girl for a long time. And God outdid himself. I never thought I could love a child this much. (I'm tearing up again. It's not the first time today.) My husband is absolutely the best husband and daddy. I am amazed and my love for him grows each day. Thank you, God. My heart is filled to overflowing because of your blessings on us.

Ella Kate Bowers

2010-11-07T20:10:00.000-08:00

Ella Kate is in the nursery for a little while, so I thought I'd blog before we head home tomorrow. Rumor has it there won't be much computer time at our house. It has been an eventful weekend for our little family. I won't post all the details, but I will say that things didn't go quite as I expected/planned. But it turned out fine. I will also leave you waiting for a post on the details by saying that I obviously don't do drugs well...Thursday night was eventful due to a few Ambien. Would you believe they moved the Peanut Festival to our room???? And Friday night/Saturday was eventful due to morphine...I woke up with my popsicle melted on my chest...I remember starting on it...and that was it. I also caused my husband to be locked out of the hospital at midnight Friday night. Or so he says. I don't remember that either.

Anyway...Ella Kate made her arrival at 9:04 Friday night weighing in at 8lbs 15oz, 21.5 inches long, via c-section. I cried. Then I threw up ; ) Really. But I'm good now. We're all good now. We're learning...definitely learning ALOT. We love her. And that makes me so emotional, more than normal I think. We both think she's the best. We just look at her. I told her today that she's the prettiest baby we ever had. I then told her we were going to work on "I need it, Daddy." She's my newest shopping partner.

Bradley has more than impressed me with his daddy skills. He's sooo good with her. It makes me love him in such a different way. (I'm crying. My emotions are CRAZY) He's also gotten lots of practice with his husband skills, as he's had to get me out of bed, in the bed, etc. I know he's exhausted. Possibly more than me (He looked all over for his watch this morning. He was wearing it. I laughed and it hurt.) But he hasn't complained, nor has he lost patience with me since we've been here (somehow). I love him so much. And I am thankful for him.

And together we are thankful for this gift that God has given us.

D-Day

2010-11-04T08:21:00.000-07:00

We spent our final night at home as a family of 2 + Molly. It was nice...we shared a meal of fishsticks, fries, and grape koolaid and looked lovingly at each other from across the living room. There was a time that we sat at the table or the bar for dinner. But I can no longer sit up straight and eat so the recliner is my spot at suppertime. As for breakfast, I made cinnamon rolls and coffee for B. I used the very last of the coffee that we brought home from Jamaica. I told him it was symbolic of "The Honeymoon's OVER."

I think I might be beyond excited about this baby girl. It's just come over me all of a sudden. I woke up every hour on the hour last night...thinking this time tomorrow...this time Saturday...this time next year...it overwhelms me a little. We do enjoy our little life at home just the 2 of us, but I have a feeling we won't be able to remember what it was like. My husband unpacked and repacked his bag last night. He said because the weather was cooler, but I found it really entertaining.

We'll be induced first thing tomorrow. I'm a little nervous about that part, but at this point, I'm big. She's big. And I've decided if given the option, she's probably not coming out on her own free will. I was a little leery of posting our day of induction online, but the word's out. So if you were planning on doing something illegal/cruel, you should know that a. We don't have anything you'd probably find valuable and b. Our neighbors are watching you. REALLY. They're good like that.

We'll let you know how things turn out when we find a minute to breathe. We would appreciate your prayers as we begin this new phase.

This and That

2010-10-30T09:07:00.000-07:00

I'm not going to get my hopes up the next time I think I'm having contractions. Because it's happened a few times this week and produced NO RESULTS. Please don't tell me to enjoy this part or to be content unless you are presently 1 day away from being 40 weeks pregnant and extremely swollen...to the point that shoes are no longer an option. I am aware that our baby girl will come when she's ready. I'm fine with that. I'm just feeling slightly impatient. And I can assure you that if you were in my shoes, or lack there of, you'd feel the same way. I'm not being ugly. I prefer to call it honest...with a smile.

Yay for Zion Chapel! They won last night! So happy for those boys and their coaches. I don't think they come any better (I may be partial). They're all what we call "good people" and they deserve some success. They never quit. It says a lot for their character. And I'm proud of them.

I saw Mario yesterday morning...and it absolutely, without a doubt, made my day. I pulled into school and saw our janitor in his truck. He resembles Mario. The kids refer to him as Mario sometimes. But I had no idea he would come to school dressed as Mario yesterday. He had on overalls, a red shirt, and had made buttons and an M for his hat. Isn't that GREAT???? I took his picture with a miniature Luigi, but I'd like to get permission from Luigi's mom before I post it. My brother said when he drove by ZC yesterday he could have sworn they were out front throwing fireballs and jumping on mushrooms.

AND...how about an "it actually feels like fall" Saturday??? Floors clean, everything dusted, candle lit, etc. Oh, doesn't it feel good? I'm going to wash clothes in a bit and if all those socks come out with a match, it will be a perfect day ; ) Happy Saturday!

Oh I hope...

2010-10-26T18:33:00.000-07:00

I'm experiencing signs of good things to come...we'll keep you posted.

A Few Things You Should Know:

2010-10-21T19:07:00.000-07:00

a. I bought a freezer today. Paid for it. We pulled around to load it. What do you know? They don't have anything but the floor model that they won't give me a discount on. And the lady really doesn't want to let me have it (even though I've already paid for it) because it's already sold. I thought I was going to have to go "Bedsole". I'm big. I'm uncomfortable. And you already charged my debit card. I'm taking that freezer. (It's in my garage now.)

b. I went to the doctor today thinking maybe...just maybe I'd get to be induced on Tuesday. Wrong. Although...I prayed that if we didn't need to induce, that we wouldn't have that decision to make. I wish now I hadn't prayed that. ; ) EK will be arriving on her own time. The next date that could be possible for induction is AFTER my due date. Thinking of this happening at a random time makes me a little nervous. And excited. All at once.

c. I have 1 string cheese left. I was thinking I might not need any next week if I weren't pregnant anymore. Mistake.

d. My husband's 10 year reunion is this weekend. I'm a cradle robber. I admit it. He's really cute though. I couldn't help myself.

e. The Backup Plan is not a good movie to see when you're 9 months pregnant.

f. I mentioned in my last post that some friends of ours got really exciting news. We just met these friends last year. But we've shared many a mexican meal in the past year. We thoroughly enjoy them. They've struggled with some fertility issues for about 5 years now. She's had 4 surgeries, 5 failed artificial inseminations, and 1 failed in vitro fertilization. She asked me for my doctor's name last Friday morning. I asked if she was pregnant. She told me no. She called Friday night and told me she fibbed. She had some bloodwork done this week and is most definitely pregnant. I am more than thrilled for them. At some point she was told there was a less than 10% chance that she would get pregnant. God is so BIG and so faithful. Please keep them in your prayers.

Have a marvelous weekend! And Roll Tide!

And the Time Draws Near...

2010-10-17T11:58:00.000-07:00

It seems like we were just calling our parents that Monday morning back in February to tell them our good news...kind of. The first part of this pregnancy seemed so slow...and so rough. But I can't believe we're near the end! Our doctor visit last week was uneventful. I am progressing normally, but no big news. I go back this Thursday for another check. We discussed induction with her, just so we would be prepared to make that decision, should it come to that. I'm still not sure how I feel about it all. I love to have a plan, but I'm scared of it too. We're just waiting to see what this week brings. The carseat's in. The bags are packed. And my toes are done. We're READY.

We had company this weekend! Yay! Jim and Brittany spent the weekend with us. We enjoyed lots of football and some time outside by the outdoor fireplace last night. The food wasn't bad either. We all went to church together this morning. It was just a good time...we don't get together all that much and I hope they enjoyed it as much as we did. The highlight of the weekend was seeing that Jim put the grill cover over the TV that we had rolled out back. He was helping...he told us he wasn't sure it fit right. Priceless.

I haven't blogged, but I posted some Facebook photos. Our nursery is done! I came home from the doctor Thursday night to find a light on in the nursery and the stroller in the living room. I was concerned that someone had been in our house. Bradley knew all along...he keeps secrets well. My mom and Teresa had been here all afternoon working on the nursery. I LOVE it! It's so sweet.

I'd like to add that some good friends of ours got the BEST news this week. We are more than thrilled for them. And when the time is right, I'd love to share their story.

Here's to a good week for all of us...

37 weeks and some days

2010-10-13T08:25:00.000-07:00

We have accomplished MUCH this week (Thank goodness...we're running out of time). Bradley has gotten a whole lot done. He's pretty handy...and I'm thankful for him. I've been cleaning and getting everything ready. I go back to the doctor tomorrow. I will be 38 weeks on Monday. I "think" I'm having some contractions. But I'm not sure because I've never done this before. They only come a few times a day...usually at night. B is a little paranoid I think. He texts me more than usual. I told him I wouldn't forget to let him know if anything big happened. Last night we discussed how we wouldn't be sleeping a whole lot in the next couple of months, but I don't sleep now! I get up on a regular basis.

We had date night last night. I've been craving crab claws. When we went to the beach for our anniversary, no one had them due to the oil spill. So last night I finished off my entire basket of crab claws (for the record, until this pregnant experience I have NEVER been one to eat much), then we headed to the movies to see Life As We Know It. I thought it was fitting. It was an excellent movie. I cried. I laughed. A LOT. I asked Bradley if he felt like we were dating. He said except for the basketball under my shirt, YES. Speaking of dating, tomorrow is 3 years since our first date! I figure I should remember these things while I still can. My, how life has changed in 3 years. And I love it. I stayed up late Sunday night reading some of our first blog entries. We are so blessed. There were definitely times that I wondered what God was up to. I'll be honest. There were times I felt like God was being very unfair. But His plans are so good. And our lives are abundantly blessed.

Hope you're enjoying your week. The nursery is supposed to be done on Sunday! Pictures to come.

Hello Fall Break!

2010-10-09T07:26:00.000-07:00

I'm laying in the recliner and Bradley's about to begin his "list". We have SO much to get done this week. My legs and ankles are HUGE today. I'm hoping they'll return to "normal" after a week at home.

I went to the doctor on Thursday. EK is definitely head down and ready to go. They estimated her weight to be 6 lb 7 oz. and I have 3 weeks left! I was hoping for 6 lb and some ounces AT her arrival. Everything looked good and I return next Thursday.
To keep on the pregnancy topic. I'm a little concerned that we may have another pregnancy at our house. Molly sure is "changing". I hope I'm wrong. But I think we're going to make a quick trip to the vet this week just to be sure. She's been booted out of the house. And has done really well.

Bradley's attacking the outside list today. We still have lots on the inside list too. The nursery looks like Babies R Us exploded in there. And no, I am NOT complaining. We have so many sweet family members and friends who have been more than generous. Now, I just have to get it all put up and ready for use. The carseat is going in today (YAY!) and I'm going to get our bag ready. Yes, we know it might be several weeks, but I like to be prepared. And at the moment, I'm not. I realize that we really can't be "prepared" for what's about to take place. But I prefer to control what I can, while I can.

The Merry Maids never did show up so I'm going to be forced to do it myself. Someone in my house that shall remain un-named asked me last Sunday if the Clean Underwear Fairy was taking a week off. I told him I thought she was on fall break, but I'd look into it. Happy Saturday to you all. And if you're lucky enough to have a week off...happy fall break!

Hello Fall

2010-10-03T12:44:00.000-07:00

I love a MAGIC ERASER. Bradley's gone to his weekly meeting and I have been sitting in the kitchen floor cleaning cabinets and walls. The magic eraser is GREAT. I had a bit of a hard time getting out of the floor, but, Never Fear. I made it.

And no, I don't think I'm nesting. This is normal for me. I just feel like we have a lot to accomplish in these last 4 weeks. I was informed that I should NOT wash Ella Kate's new duds in Gain with our things. So I purchased some "special" detergent for her clothes. Oh My Gosh. That stuff was pricey. And my mother said, "That won't be the last thing you have to buy that's expensive." Such the encourager. This budget thing is working out quite nicely for us though. Bradley tells everyone he gets $20 a week whether he needs it or not. We even went shopping yesterday! It's been a while... We figured we'd better stock up before things get crazy around here.

You'll all be happy to know I didn't attack any fans at the game this week. I didn't even get upset. Tomorrow is officially 4 weeks left til D Day. So I figure I should just waddle to my seat and remain calm for the rest of the season. I've requested that EK not come on a Friday...or even a Thursday. I'm good with any other day though. I just think it would be nice if my husband were present for the birth. I'm kidding. He knows where he'll be. I return to the doc on Thursday. I'll let you know how that goes.

I absolutely love this weather. This time of year always reminds me how much we have to be thankful for. May your cup runneth over this week...

5th Grade Funnies

2010-09-28T14:54:00.000-07:00

I am still loving 5th grade. I was talking to a co-worker the other day about a date for a baby shower. I told her I was easy. Any day was fine. She told me "obviously". She said that was what got me in this shape. I apologize if that's inappropriate. We're adults. It was hilarious. (Morgan, I won't tell you which coworker I'm talking about. )

The one thing I miss most about the little ones is the funny things they come up with. Today, it was a 5th grader that caused me to laugh...ALOT. He lost his house key...you know...the one I tell him to put away on a daily basis. Well he was very concerned, but I promised not to send him home to sit in the yard. I asked if mom was at work. Yes. Did he know the number? No. Not to worry...I could look it up. But then he cracked me up. He said, "if you just get your cell phone and hit rocketdial, it will call her work." Huh? He repeats himself. At that point I realize that, bless his heart, he thinks everyone's cell phones have his mom's work programmed into rocketdial. Never fear. We found the key. But that was by far the best thing I've heard in a while.

I'm loving this weather!!! I know you are too. Is it appropriate to ride with the windows down with a newborn in the backseat? I figure not, so I'm doing it all I can right now. Have a marvelous week.

Pardon me while I vent...

2010-09-25T10:30:00.000-07:00

I have lots to say today and I don't know where to start. I guess I should begin with the doctor visit on Wednesday. Everything was good. I measured a few weeks smaller than I actually am...hard to believe, I know. I weighed....A LOT. I will not even tell you how much I've gained. We're gonna chalk that up to the swelling, ok? It's all fluid and it will all go away when she's born. That's my story and I'm sticking to it. I do plan to post pictures of my ankles at some point. They're bad. Trust me. My fifth graders have started commenting on them. Let me share with you the 3 comments I got yesterday:

1. My daughter in law just had a 9 pounder and she was much smaller than you.

2. You've "blown up".

3. You're having a skinny day today. You know, some days you look thinner than others.

Um, thanks??? Those comments probably didn't help my mood when the following occurred:

Bradley and I now teach at the same school....this is our 2nd year there. We love it. Good kids...really good kids. And we enjoy our peers. I knew when I married him there would be times that I would have to hold my tongue. Normally, I can handle that ok. Last night was a struggle for me though. I listened to a man tell the boys (over and over) not to give up because "one day they'd finally get some good coaches". Was it worth my concern? Probably not. But I'd like to share with you some things I know that others may not know. Those coaches run a shuttle service after practice. I've seen my husband have so many kids to take home, they won't fit in his truck. Does he mind? No. I've watched him bring a kid to our house each Thursday night so he can be sure he gets a good meal the night before a game. Is he giving him more than a meal? I certainly hope so. I know he prays for those kids. I know he prays for the coaches so they can "make good decisions and put the kids in a position to be successful". Is he required to do any of that? No. He loves those kids. They ALL love those kids. And they'd do anything in the world for them. Those people that man was talking about are somebody's fathers. They're somebody's sons. They're somebody's husbands. And they make a million sacrifices for those kids. If you think coaches everywhere are like that, they aren't. Be careful what you wish for. I don't think high school football is what life is all about. I do think being considerate in any situation...IS. I think the world of my husband. I don't think he's a saint. I think he's human. But I know without a doubt that there isn't a kid on that team that he wouldn't help. And it's tough for me to listen to those things when I know his heart. I'd dare say that most if not all of those coaches are the same way. I've made comments without considering who was listening. And I was wrong. Always consider the way your actions and words will affect those around you. You never know who's listening and watching.

Let's end on a lighter note: We have dip in the crock pot and pigs in a blanket in a bowl. I'm laying in the recliner, B's on the couch. And Bama plays in about an hour. RTR! If only the Merry Maids and the Laundry Fairy would show up....

Homecoming Insanity and a Baby Shower

2010-09-19T15:42:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow begins week five of football season. Which means I have 6 weeks left in my pregnancy. That's how I keep up with it. After tomorrow we'll be down to 5 weeks, 6 days, 2 hours, 24 minutes. Seriously, though...the countdown is in full swing.

We had our first shower today. I was overwhelmed at how many people turned out. We are blessed with the sweetest family and friends. We received soooo many needed things. Until today we had a crib, a mattress, and some diapers. I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed by the floor full of gifts in the nursery now. The OCD in me wants to start putting away things and have it all put up by bedtime. But my swollen ankles say "sit a while in that recliner". I just looked over my pictures and decided they must be distorted because there's no way my face is that puffy. Everyone else, however, looks normal. Thank you to everyone. We appreciate everything.

In other news.....I SURVIVED HOMECOMING WEEK!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm not sure that I've EVER had a busier week. I have a whole new perspective on things. Everything worked out, even though earlier in the week I was in panic mode thinking they would not. I told my principal on Thursday afternoon that I would be taking a personal "week" this week. Forget a personal day. I was kidding, although the thought of a week off sounds SO nice.

It's back to the doctor this week to see how things are progressing. She's still a very active baby girl. At times, I feel like she's going to kick out of there.

May your week be an easy, "go with the flow" kind of week. That's the kind I need.

A Little Randomness

2010-09-08T16:02:00.000-07:00

A: I get LOTS (too much) satisfaction out of doing laundry and having a match for every sock.

B: I'm signing Ella Kate up for soccer...soon.

C: In just days, I have watched the tree outside our french doors turn from green to yellow. I LOVE it!

D: I already have my fall candles lit.

E: I do not have my fall decor out because my husband says, "it's not fall yet". And he will be the one to get it out of our attic. I don't think I can fit through the opening.

and 6: (that will drive some of you nuts...along with the fact that I'm not ending on a multiple of 5 or 10) I'm wondering when football practice might possibly end because I'm STARVING and it is NOT my night to cook.

*Happy Hump Day*

If you're happy and you know it,

2010-09-02T15:11:00.000-07:00

clap your hands! CLAP! CLAP! I haven't felt this good in a while. I don't know where this energy is coming from, but I like it. It's been too long. I am, however, pretty uncomfortable if I have to sit or stand for any period of time (you should try riding on a bus while being this pregnant). Sleep isn't great, but Tylenol PM is my friend. And I am GROWING. I never thought my body could do this. Bradley and I both are ever amazed. I do have a plan for shaping it back up. We are signing up for a 5K in April. I don't want to hear all of your negative comments either. I know it will be hard. But I don't care. I did a 5K once...my friend encouraged me to "tuck and roll" the last 1oth of a mile. I almost took her up on it. But it made me feel so good to know I finished. I'm determined to do it again. I have my "From Couch to 5K" plan in hand and I'm waiting. I'll keep you posted on that.

In other baby news, I'm reading this book on how to have a baby that sleeps. I tell my mom all the time that we're going to follow the book and it'll be a piece of cake. She laughs. Honestly, we aren't naive. We know. I'm sure we don't really KNOW. But we do have some clue that this is going to be tough for a while. We're both fairly laid back, and I'm hoping we continue to be that way. I also hope she has her daddy's temperament. He's more laid back than me. I don't know what all the fuss is about anyway. When we filled out our baby request application, we ordered a mild-mannered, sleeps through the night, can take her in public BABY. Why do you people thing we won't get it???? ; )

We had "date-night" last night. It was so nice to go out to eat and get to conversate for a change. Football season cuts down on our conversating considerably. But we enjoy it.

Our weekend is looking jam packed. Hope yours is fabulous. We're getting excited...
ROLL TIDE!

A Little Free Information

2010-08-29T21:11:00.000-07:00

Saw this on a blog that I stalk...thought I'd use it too.

Outside my window...dark and just stopped raining

The time is...11:14. Thank you again, restless legs.

Today I feel...emotional? hormonal? all of the above? YES.

I am thinking...how is that I need to use the restroom again??????? I JUST went!

At the moment, I am thankful...for this baby girl kicking around in my tummy, even though she causes me much discomfort lately...like when I go to the bathroom 10 times in an hour.

I am going...to school in the morning, then to practice, then home.

I am wearing...the same things over, and over, and over, and over, and over...

I wish...it were November, our baby girl was here and healthy, we were getting a handle on the parenting thing, and my body was deflating.

I am reading...Babywise.

I am hoping...I can relax enough to go to sleep soon.

I am working on...not being quite so OCD.

I am hearing...the computer keys and the ice maker.

I bet you didn't know...that I eat string cheese like it's going out of style.

One of my favorite...times is riding in the car with Bradley singing really loud while he just shakes his head.

My weekend plans include...working concessions at the Troy game and spending Sunday with Bradley because he is OFF! And lots of time with my feet up.

Hope your week is EXTRA good.

Somebody's Been Acting Right...

2010-08-26T19:02:00.001-07:00

I had no practice, no errands, and nothing pressing to do today. My husband was going to a football game after practice so I declared this afternoon ALL ABOUT HOPE. I rode to Troy and got a pedicure. Sometimes things not in the budget are worth the splurge. I'd like to mention that the lady working in there rubbed my stomach...without permission. It was odd. I then came home and cooked a frozen pizza, which I ate every bit of. I told Bradley on my way home from Troy that the only way today could be better was if there was a magazine in the mailbox. Would you believe there were 3???????? Obviously I've been acting right. And now I'm eating ice cream.

I also found a 2nd pair of my favorite maternity jeans for $9.99 today. My first pair was no where near that price. Don't tell Bradley. That wasn't in the budget either.

Happy Friday!

12 Random Thoughts

2010-08-22T15:29:00.000-07:00

1. I miss all those sweet babies, but I LOVE 5th grade.

2. I still get to see the sweet babies in the hall, and this week one of them informed me that the baby had "to get out somehow". I started to tell him this was becoming a concern for me too.

3. It is very hard to reach my toes. This calls for a pedicure, don't you think?

4. I will be 30 weeks tomorrow. And the countdown is ON.

5. I LOST a pound this month. Please don't be concerned. I gained enough last month to more then make up for it. I have been "making better choices" as my doctor put it.

6. I really love apple juice. I drink it from the jug. B tells me it reminds him of the movie, "Look Who's Talking". I don't know remember that part, but he thinks it's hilarious. I apologize to all of you who are offended that I drink from the jug. I promise not to offer you apple juice if you visit.

7. My ankles and feet start out normal on Monday, but my toes look like sausages by the end of the week, and my ankles are gone.

8. My husband yelled more than I've ever heard him yell Friday night. I found it very entertaining. He loves his job.

9. He finished painting the nursery last Sunday afternoon. There is now a desk sitting in the middle of my dining room waiting to be stored at my parents' house. It's making me nuts. It's been there all week.

10. We are now on a budget. I get $20 a week. If I take my lunch, I can spend my money on whatever I want. I'm proud of us. We've done well this month.

11. B made my lunch everyday this week. I love him. (not just bc he makes my lunch...that's a bonus)

12. I am currently enjoying the first of many Sunday afternoons alone. B always has meetings on Sundays during football season. I should tell you that I'm lonely. But I love it. He and I refer to it as "Hope time". I'm making the most of every Sunday, because I have this feeling that Sunday afternoons next football season will not be ALL ABOUT ME. And that's ok. Because she will be worth it.

He's a GOOD man

2010-08-15T17:24:00.000-07:00

He painted until he ran out of paint. Then he started on this:

(He said we should have bought the display.)
And when he finished, it looked like this:

And I, currently, look like this:It makes me feel a little less stressed to know the crib is done. Thank you, B. If you're thinking that's what he had on the last time I posted pictures of him, I was just thinking the same thing. We'll just refer to it as his weekend outfit.

Yay for the Weekend!!!!!

2010-08-14T08:26:00.000-07:00

We survived the first week! We both really like our classes this year. I'm getting adjusted to life in the 5th grade world. It's nice to be able to write directions on the board and have students who can read them and follow them without a whole lot of explanation. I am loving the ladies around me. They're fun, and I've heard some great stories over the last 2 weeks. B is liking his junior high classes. He was concerned at first about teaching that age group, but he's enjoyed them this week.

We're both SO busy and SO tired. My ankles started out good Monday morning, but by yesterday afternoon, they were ginormous. They're back to normal this morning. They just needed a weekend off. I took a picture of them earlier so I can remember that my ankles are not actually as fat as they appear most of the time. Football brings with it late nights at our house. When we both get home, we're too tired to say much. It makes us appreciate the weekends and time together a little more. I made breakfast this morning. It was nice to sit down together and talk while we ate our pancakes. AND our house is clean for the most part. That makes my heart smile. I'm ALL ABOUT a clean house. I don't know if that's a control thing or an OCD thing. But either way...I like it.

I'm hoping we get finished painting the nursery this weekend, and possibly the crib put together. Other than that, we're just hanging out at home. I don't care if it rains all day. In fact, I think it would be nice. Happy Weekend.

Back in Session

2010-08-06T11:18:00.000-07:00

It's been a BUSY week at the Bowers House. School is back in session. So is football. Our grass is tall. Our laundry pile is taller. And my stomach gets bigger every day it seems. I don't even recognize my ankles. I think they're still in there...somewhere.

A little kindergarten girl who was attending Jumpstart yesterday made my day. She had to make a quick trip to the restroom and I was passing by so she walked with me. She asked me first, "Is you the cool people?". I thought How can she tell??????? So I told her that I absolutely was "the cool people". She then said, Is you work here". Yes. She proceeded to show me her scar from a previous surgery. I asked if that was a long time ago. I knew it was gonna be good when she began her answer with "See, first I was in my mommy's tummy." I got the whole spill and she ended with "and now I'm here". She did interrupt the story to tell me she thought we'd passed the potty. It was quite the conversation and I wouldn't have missed it for the world.

We plan on doing ABSOLUTELY nothing this weekend. Exhausted does not begin to describe us. Hope your weekend is relaxing!

Time's Up!

2010-07-31T08:16:00.000-07:00

We are finishing up our last "childless" summer. We've slept as late as we wanted, gone where we wanted to go, ate what we wanted, and done absolutely whatever we wanted to do. I have a feeling that's about to end. As excited as we are about Ella Kate's arrival, it also scares me more and more as it approaches. I have no doubt she will be worth every bit of the change that is about to take place in our lives, but that doesn't keep me from wondering if we're ready for this.

Monday kicks off our school year and football season at the Bowers house. We've been at school this past week as much as we've been at home...trying to prepare so we aren't drowning in "to do's" next week. My room's ready for the most part. I had a moment of "what am I doing???" last week one day when I thought about making the transition from 1st to 5th grade. I could handle the first day with 1st graders with my eyes closed. But I've never done the 5th grade thing. I am most excited about the ladies I get to work with and around. Maybe they'll keep me sane with all the change we're about to go through. I have also been "promoted" as someone put it to varsity cheerleader coach. The girls are fun. It's just way more responsibility than I ever realized. But we'll all survive and we'll enjoy doing it. Bradley's just hoping we'll both get through football season without Ella Kate making an early arrival. She's due 3 days after the last regular season game.

Just for the record, I have gotten most of my TO DO list completed this summer. Except that the nursery is not painted. Does the test paint on the wall count? I have all the supplies sitting in the nursery floor along with the crib that is still in the box. Maybe we'll get to that soon.

We're spending our last day in the pool and B said he would grill later if I act right. I hope you all have a wonderful, relaxing weekend.

The Beach and a Baby Picture

2010-07-25T13:37:00.001-07:00

Bradley and I left late Thursday night after workouts for the beach. We spent the day Friday on the beach. It was beautiful. I sat in the edge of the water for a long time. Then I camped out under the umbrella for a while. There's nothing like a sandwich and a drink from the cooler on the beach. We tried out a new place to eat that night, The Old Florida Fish House. It's not new but we'd never been. It was SO good. Actually, since I've been pregnant, there's not much that I don't find to be "SO good". Yesterday we slept late, then went out for breakfast...we waited forever to eat. I guess everyone wanted a good breakfast yesterday. We made a Target run, then sat on the beach all afternoon. A lady fell over backwards in her beach chair right beside us. You'll be happy to know I held it together...I've always been one to get tickled pretty easily, but lately I get so tickled I can't stop laughing...usually at the most inappropriate times. Last night we had a late dinner. I had grilled fish for the first time...very good. I usually liked fried or blackened, but indigestion is the enemy right now, and I didn't think I should try that. We slept late this morning, then headed home. But not before I ran smack into the sliding glass door and laughed hysterically. I then cried for about 30 minutes on the way home for no apparent reason. I couldn't even tell Bradley why I was crying. I have no idea. I fought it for some time...and I kept my sunglasses on for a while, but he was on to me. He just helped me find a tissue and shook his head.
I'll jump back to last Wed and post a picture from our 4D ultrasound. This baby is without a doubt a daddy's girl. Her mouth and nose look identical to his. I'm good with that. I think he's pretty. I won't tell you how much weight I've gained, but I will say there is NO way that scale was right. Absolutely NO WAY.

One last week before I have to go back to work...lots of last minute stuff to do, along with some floating around the pool. Hope you all have a fabulous week.

Anniversary Post #2

2010-07-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

I am starting this post at 3:40 a.m. Thank you, Restless Legs Syndrome. Have I mentioned that although I'm thankful and very aware of how worth it Ella Kate will be, pregnancy has not been the fun experience I expected? Marriage, however, is a different story. It has been more than I expected...and most definitely a fun experience thus far. I feel like we've been married so much longer than 2 years, but I mean that in a positive way. Many things have happened in just 2 years. Our wedding day seems like it was ages ago. But I still remember so much so vividly.

I was determined not to be stressed on our wedding day. I had been living on my own for 4 years in an apartment that I loved. I wanted to stay there by myself one last night the night before our wedding. It was late when I got in bed. When I got up the next morning, I lay in bed for hours reading a book, The Convenient Groom. I started it earlier that week and wanted to finish that morning. I walked over to the church (across the street) to check things out. I don't recall having breakfast or lunch that day (or supper for that matter), but surely I ate something. When Jennifer arrived to do my hair, I had not even showered! All the bridesmaids arrived and my mom came. We all got ready together. My brother got a haircut on my porch because he had failed to do so before then. It was such an enjoyable time. My husband-to-be thought he needed a round of golf that morning. I have since found out that he drove extremely fast to get back and barely made it to the church on time. We chose to see each other before and had a time together, just the 2 of us. I had written in a journal all the things I could remember from our first date to the present. I gave it to him when we saw each other. He became a little emotional, but I was pretty impressed with how well I was holding up. Pictures began, and were over pretty quickly. We laughed through most of the pictures. The groomsmen were good entertainment that day. I went back to the apartment with the girls. We watched as people began to arrive. The church was packed, and that's an understatement. We were overwhelmed at the number of people who showed up to share in our day with us. We were and continue to be so blessed with people who love us and support us. As the time arrived, the bridesmaids left and my daddy and I were alone. I remember walking over together. As he and I prepared to enter the church, he said something to me that I will remember forever. It wasn't sappy. It was hilarious. And it's probably best that I don't share it on here. But it fits my daddy to a T. I remember everything about the music starting and the doors opening. By the time I got down the aisle to Bradley I was EMOTIONAL. I wasn't sure I would hold it together. I remember Bradley blowing in my eyes. I remember telling him my feet were killing me and I'd never wear those shoes again. He told me he'd never wear his again either. I had my engagement ring on, and I remember him trying to get me to take it off so my wedding band would go on first. I never understood what he meant, and I never took it off. I was so emotional that my vows were a whisper. I could barely speak. I knew if I started crying, I would lose it. My very favorite memory was near the end of the service. My first principal, Mr. Franks, played the trumpet during a time of prayer. It was AMAZING. And during that time, my new husband leaned over me and prayed with me for our life together. It is without a doubt, my fondest memory of our wedding. I remember that Bradley held my face when he kissed me. It was so gentle and sweet. After we were presented, I remember realizing for the first time, just how many people were in the church. I saw all the people standing in the back and in the balcony. I don't remember much about the short trip to the reception. I remember just how good the cakes were...I've never tasted better. That was all I ate at the reception, the cake we fed each other and a Mt. Dew. We have no clue what our first dance was to, but we think it was a Keith Whitley song. I do remember dancing to "I Let Her Lie" at some point, which we thought was hilarious for a song at a wedding reception. My feet hurt worse than they've ever hurt in all my life. I told Bradley the truth, I've never worn those shoes again. They sit on the top shelf in our closet. We left in the smokey glow of sparklers and with a fire truck escort, complete with lights and sirens (Thank you, Stae!). We found Bradley's truck fully decorated at the apartment. I thought Bradley would be so ready to leave Luverne, but he thought he should wash one load of clothes before we left. I sat on the couch and ate rice while I waited.

I remember eating wedding cake for breakfast the next morning, and we left Montgomery for Atlanta. We slept for many hours that afternoon in Atlanta. We were absolutely exhausted. We flew out of Atlanta for beautiful Jamaica on Monday morning at the crack of dawn. Our honeymoon was so much fun and so pretty. I would love to go back one day.

I'm not a girl who's dreamed of her wedding all her life. But it was everything I wanted. We were so worried that things would be a big blur. They weren't. We made it a point to soak up every detail (which I just shared with you. I apologize. It's long. I know.) I hope our lives are like that. I hope we soak in every detail, and remember it forever. (Maybe, not the morning sickness, I could do without that memory. I still live that one every now and then.)

Marriage has been so much sweeter, funnier, and happier than I ever imagined it could be. God sent me His best for me in Bradley. I am so grateful. It's not always easy. It's hard for you to imagine, I know, but sometimes we're not nice to each other. Usually, that would be me. I will admit that I have tried to push his buttons (once or twice). He always forgives me. We say often, that for the most part, it is "easy". We don't always have to talk. We don't have to be entertained. We enjoy each other's company. And we still enjoy doing our own things. We are immeasurably blessed, and very thankful for the lives God has given us. Thank you, God for the past 2 years. Thank you, Bradley, for your patience with me, for the love you give me (even when I'm ill, as you tell me). I love you more now than I could have imagined when we stood before God and those people and committed our lives to each other only 2 short years ago. Happy Anniversary. I'd like to close with the chorus from the song that we used at the end of our wedding ceremony.

Then sings my soul, my Savior God to thee
How great thou art
How great thou art
Then sings my soul, my Savior God to thee
How great thou art
How great thou art.

A Daddy's Girl

2010-07-11T15:30:00.000-07:00

We've made 3 different attempts on 3 different days at some 4D pictures of Ella Kate. She refuses to move her hands and arms from in front of her face.
And we wonder why???????????

I Heart Summer!

2010-07-08T05:57:00.000-07:00

Can you tell we don't have a baby yet? And that I'm out for the summer? I've been posting pretty regularly. Don't look for that to continue in August. We'll be swimming in school, football, cheerleading, and piles of dirty laundry by then. But for now, life is so fun!

We took off for Destin yesterday morning. We adults still like to do a little school shopping every summer. Pregnancy makes shopping for me not so fun, and more so expensive. I made up for it with all the stuff I bought for Ella Kate. I'm getting so excited about this baby girl! Bradley bought more than both of us. He says he does not have a lot of clothes...this is is not true. I told him the only way he could get more shirts is to get rid of as many or more than he bought. The walls of our closet may explode if he doesn't.

After a little shopping and a quick lunch, we went to see some good friends and some family for the afternoon. The Ingalls, who I lived with in college, were at the beach for the week. When I was a single girl, I went with them several summers. Those were fun times. They have a large family and I loved it. Yesterday, we got to see some of them and we spent the afternoon with Mrs. Sally. We went out to dinner with her and visited some more. Then we made the late drive home. I am so thankful for them. I love talking with Mrs. Sally and Mr. Terry. They are precious to me.

I also am thankful for summers off where we can load up and drive to Destin to stay all day. The beach was beautiful. I'm thankful for a husband who enjoys it as much as I do, and is willing to take off for the day with me. We have some great conversations in the car. Sometimes we learn a lot about each other. Often I hear stories that he's never told me. It's so funny to me.

Tonight we're having several teachers and their husbands over. I'm excited! It's a blessing to enjoy the people that you work with, and we love having people over. Maybe I'll take some pictures. Happy Thursday!

Anniversary Post #1

2010-07-06T05:55:00.000-07:00

We've almost been married 2 years! It's gone by so fast and it feels like our lives have been changing at warp speed. We now have new jobs, a new house, a dog, and baby on the way. There are so many little things that happened around the time of our wedding. I want to post them so I'll have them to remember when life gets crazier than it already is around here. I'll post in 2 parts so that all of you won't get bored halfway through and stop reading.

We got engaged at the beginning of April and planned our wedding for July 19th (our first date was October 14th). We didn't have tons of time, but that was fine with us. We knew we had to get the wedding in before football started. A few weeks before the wedding, I backed Bradley's truck into a light pole...I left quite a dent in the bumper. I was already stressed and that added to it. I also had planned for my reception to be at the Ag Center in Luverne. On a whim, I called to make sure everything was good with our reservation. I was told that it had been double booked and we would not be able to use it. I had no idea what we would do. A couple of friends came to the rescue and we were able to book the country club at the last minute. I am normally a fairly calm person, but that was not the case that day...not even close. It all worked out better than the original plan though. God's like that. Yesterday I was cleaning out some books and found a devotion from the week that it all occurred. It was called "Divine Interventions" and I remember finding it very encouraging that week.

Bradley and I got along really well the whole time (9 months) that we dated. The week prior to the wedding, I thought we might kill each other. Experts refer to that as stress. One particular memory was the Wednesday night before the wedding. I was staying at my parents house one last time as a single girl. Bradley picked me up to take ferns to the church in Luverne. We snapped at each other the whole trip, and on the way home he decided he needed some french fries. I don't know why that bothered me, but I went into this spill about how he had already had supper (experts call that nagging). He gave me no response and pulled up to the speaker in the drive through. After several minutes of waiting, I told him that maybe God was trying to tell him he didn't need those fries. He pulled off (really fast) without any fries. We didn't speak all the way back to Opp.

Bradley's grandmother gave him a letter the week of the wedding and he asked me to read it to him as we rode somewhere one day. I started to read and got through the first few sentences. I remember folding it up and sobbing because I was so emotional and just could not read it.

The Thursday night before the wedding, all the bridesmaids and I went for pedicures and mexican. Is there any better combination? I left Troy late that night and found several messages on my phone from Bradley. When I finally reached him, he wanted to know if I had been contacted about the tent. He wouldn't tell me what was going on. I found out that our tent had not been set up completely and Ms. Jean couldn't get under it to set things up. I think I called the tent guy sometime after 10 that night. The tent was fixed the next morning.

I'm not sure how much you'll all enjoy reading these details, but it makes me smile to think back. It was such a fun time. It was stressful, but it was so much fun. So many people told me their weddings were a blur. We were determined not to let ours be that way. I remember so much and I'm looking forward to sharing it with you in Anniversary #2.

Yay for a Week Off!

2010-07-03T05:56:00.000-07:00

We teachers have the whole summer off, but that's not entirely true. Bradley has workouts so it's hard for us to schedule much. But he has all of next week off and I am so excited. I have a list of things for him to get done, but I'll let him rest some too. We have NO plans for the 4th except lunch with my parents. His parents are off on a cruise, but I'm sure we can manage to give their pool some good use this week. That's our plan for today along with putting up peas. I just came in from our backyard, and the weather is amazing...it's like a spring morning...breezy and comfortable. Yesterday was hot, but so much better than it's been. I even did a few things outside yesterday, and that has been impossible so far this summer. Bradley did A LOT outside yesterday. It looks nice and I'm very appreciative.

We capped off the day with dinner and a movie with friends. Bradley grew up at VBS every summer with Morgan. They always celebrated their birthdays together at Bible School because there was one day between them. Morgan also did us the honor of singing in our wedding. So after 2 years of trying to plan a dinner date, we finally got together with she and her husband, Matt, last night. We had Mexican (yay!!!) and went to see Eclipse. I've never read the books, but have been told I'm missing out. I've seen the other 2 movies, but slept through the end of the last one. It would be safe to say they are not my favorites. But I was pretty impressed with Eclipse. I think that's the latest we've been out in a very long time. It's the first time we've been able to go to a movie since I found out I was pregnant. Morning/all day sickness will change your way of life for sure. I've been told that a baby will do the same thing. It was an extra good day all around. I love days like that.

One more thing that added to the "goodness" of yesterday. I had to make a quick trip to my moms yesterday afternoon. It was beautiful, so I let my windows down and opened the sunroof. I also broke out a few old cd's. I had high school/college music blaring from my speakers. I have always enjoyed riding in the car by myself, but windows down and loud music can make my day. It was all good until all 458 napkins on my console exploded through my sunroof. It was hilarious and I had a pretty good laugh in the car all by myself. No, I did not go back and pick them up. I'm sorry. I would never have found them all.

I hope everyone has a great 4th of July weekend! Be safe.

The Thrill of Accomplishment

2010-06-29T18:58:00.000-07:00

I've been checking things off the list this week. It gives me some sort of sick satisfaction to get things done. I lean towards being OCD at times.

Yesterday I got my teeth cleaned, my eyes checked, and my fabric picked out for the nursery. (The bottom 3 are the main fabrics...top 3 are accents.) I also had lunch with a friend I haven't seen in a long time (I enjoyed it, Julie!) and stopped to visit some friends afterwards. How impressed are you? Hold on, I'm not finished. Vacation clothes are washed, a few cabinets have been cleaned out, and I started on our front bedroom tonight. I think I had 37 empty shoe boxes...although I'm not sure why. They are now in the trash can and I have a load for Good Will that will fill the back of my car. I'll be ok as long as Bradley doesn't start looking through it. I also got started putting things away in my new classroom today. Yay! I needed this grade level change. I am thrilled about the coming year. So many exciting things ahead.

On an unrelated side note, Bradley decided at 10 Sunday night that we should watch a movie. Simple joys... We watched State of Play...great movie. I recall the days when we dated and sat TOGETHER to watch movies. We don't do that anymore. He says we used to sit together because all I had was a couch and a chair that was uncomfortable. Lately I feel like he's wishing we had seperate beds. I cannot sleep. I think I have restless legs syndrome...I've read this is brought on by pregnancy. My legs jerk all night. It makes me insane and I can't imagine how he feels. I've moved to the recliner the last couple of nights. I ate a couple of Oreos this morning about 2...it's scientifically proven to help me relax. I don't know if it was that or the Tylenol...but eventually I fell asleep.

Hope everyone is having an extra good week. I plan to check some more things off the list this week.

Vacation and Back to the Real World

2010-06-26T05:41:00.000-07:00

We are finally home from our week away. It was very relaxing, but I underestimated how hard it would be for a pregnant girl to sit on a hot beach. Normally, you wouldn't find me anywhere but on the beach. This trip, however, was a different story. We spent some time on the beach, but we also looked at some of the historic sites on the island and ate some really good food. Jekyll Island is a beautiful place. It also has more history than I realized. My history teacher husband was all about that. We got lots of reading done while we were there. And I might have napped a little. We are thankful for the time away, but also thankful to be back home. Now it's time to think of ALL the things we need to accomplish before the summer's end. First of all, I am changing grades in the teaching world. I will now teach 5th grade, and I'm really excited about the change. I requested this move months ago, but it was recently approved. I will teach 3 science classes and 1 reading class. I needed this move and feel certain it will be a good one. I will have to make a conscience effort not to tie their shoes or wipe their noses, but it won't take me long to get into the swing of things. That being said, I have not unpacked the first box at school. And believe me, there are MANY boxes to be unpacked. How in the world did I accumulate so much stuff??????

Also, the baby on the way...she needs a room. And we have done nothing in there. I have looked at bedding fabric, but haven't made any decisions. I hope to at least get that picked out next week. Walls to paint, a crib to put together, we haven't registered for the first thing, we haven't picked out anything but a stroller!!! Football season begins in August, and by the end, we'll have a new baby girl. So my hopes are to accomplish all this in July. I made my list last night. I'm ready to start marking things off. I also intended to put up peas (which I've never done), clean out our front bedroom so we could have company one day, get a new couch, redo our shed/watch Bradley redo our shed, and clean out our garage. There will be a sign up sheet posted by our front door for anyone who's interested in helping.

I also would like to find some time in there to lay IN the pool, read some books, have lunch with some college friends, and have some friends over for dinner. And I WILL. I will always make time for the most important things.

Happy Birthday, Bradley!

2010-06-21T15:44:00.000-07:00

I attempted to blog this morning before Bradley was up, but our internet was not cooperating. We are in Jekyll Island, GA on our one last hurrah before we have a baby. We are camping and for those of you who just imagined us in a tent for a week, you do NOT know us well. We brought a camper complete with running water (hot water), a potty of our own, a shower, a.c., and the best bed ever made. We love sleeping in here. I think we sleep better here than we do at home. You can make a camper really cold and that's the way we like it. We spent the morning on the beach and the afternoon riding around the island. The beach is pretty, but definitely not as pretty as the Gulf. There is a beach called Driftwood Beach that we checked out this afternoon. I think we're planning on going there tomorrow.

Today is Bradley's birthday. I am so thankful for him. There were a lot of times in the last 5-10 years that I wondered if God had anyone for me. Oh, but He did. And he's better than anything I could have imagined for myself. He was every bit worth the wait. He has more patience than anyone I know. He's kind. He can cook...well. He makes me laugh a lot. But he's serious too. AND I personally think he's easy to look at. I told him last night that he could fix anything. I have always looked at my daddy that way, and I look at Bradley the same way. He pulled this camper for 7 hours yesterday, then set it up like a pro last night, and THEN took me out to eat. I look forward to seeing him with Ella Kate. I think he's going to be the best daddy. Thank you, God, for the best you had for me. He's everything I wanted and more. I love you, Bradley. I hope your day has been great.

An Active Baby and a Hilarious Husband

2010-06-17T16:07:00.000-07:00

We went for our ultrasound yesterday. It's still a girl. She wiggled the entire time. I've been telling Bradley that she moves all the time...especially after I eat. We went out for lunch just before our appointment so she was definitely on the move during the ultrasound. It's a little early for a 4-D but they tried to let us see her face. She wasn't very cooperative. She wouldn't stay still long enough to get a good picture. As I sit here, it feels like she's turning flips.

I had a workshop in Troy today and I wasn't sure where I was going. My sweet husband put the address in the GPS and put it in my car before I left. As I started down the road, I looked at the screen and realized he had made me a blue monster truck with HUGE tires. He makes me laugh. Last night we were driving through our neighborhood and there was a man on a motorized wheelchair walking his little dog. Bradley made some comment about how strong that little dog was to pull that man in that chair. (That is SO something my daddy would say.) And earlier this week we were in a local store. There was a metal pole laying on the counter that they use to get clothes down from the top racks. Bradley leans over and whispers that he thinks they handle snakes in there. He's been on a roll lately. And I love him.

We're off next week for one last hurrah before we have a baby. I can't wait!

Halfway There/20 Weeks

2010-06-14T18:16:00.000-07:00

A Broken Bone, Exhaustion, Swollen Ankles, and Laughter

2010-06-11T16:50:00.000-07:00

We took off bright and early Tuesday morning for cheer camp in Auburn. This is my first experience as a cheer coach, but I'm learning a lot. FAST. I will begin this post by saying we have only 3 returning girls and 6 brand new cheerleaders. We've ALL come a long way (myself included). Tuesday night, we competed in a Home Pom competition. We placed 4th. They did SO GOOD. It was their best performance yet. Because there were only 7 JV squads there, we were all grouped together for competition, rather than divided into small and large. We were the smallest squad in our division, competing against a squad of 20 and a squad of 18. I was more than proud of them.

We had a small crash on Wednesday morning that resulted in a broken wrist. The wrist belonged to our main flyer so it threw us for a loop. But the girls recovered well, and she came back to join us, cast and all. She even brought her meds with her and there were a few times I thought I might need to borrow some. We competed again this morning with 2 routines. We placed 3rd with one of those routines. Also, 2 of our girls went out for All Stars and both made it. Our varsity girls won camp champs for both of their routines. They were great.

I was very unprepared for the heat and the walking. I don't know how far it was from our dorm to the coliseum, but it was A LONG WAY. We walked there and back 3 times each day. I thought I might not make it. To say I was swollen was an understatement. I did catch a ride at least once a day, but not often enough. Last night I got to visit with the couple I lived with in college, The Ingalls. Right after I finished college in Troy, they moved to Auburn. I was so glad they came to see me. I enjoyed seeing them.

My girls were entertaining (as always). They shared a lot of laughter, most of it probably when they were supposed to be sleeping. It hasn't been so long that I've forgotten what camp is like as a camper. We all came home exhausted. I am so proud of them and enjoying this experience. While I was gone, my husband cleaned our carpet and rug. He also cleaned our bathroom and put clean sheets on our bed. He probably did more, but those are the things I've discovered. He's the BEST. Our plans for this weekend and next week are few. It will take me that long to recover....

And by the way...Jim is now a Slocomb Redtop. Yah!!!

A Weekend with the Bowers Family

2010-06-06T12:15:00.000-07:00

My husband played in a golf tournament yesterday (and won) which I thought entitled me to a day of shopping alone. I can do some damage when I'm alone. But I was given a spending limit. I adhered to that...kind of. I bought my first things for Ella Kate. I told Bradley that did not count towards my limit because it was not for me. He shook his head. (I get that response all the time!)

My nausea has been better than ever for a couple of days. I'm scared to type that for fear that it will return. I had forgotten what it was like to not feel sick. It is a nice feeling and one I don't plan to take for granted. Thank you, Lord. I have prayed and prayed to feel normal again. It's a good thing because I will be leaving bright and early Tuesday morning for a week of cheerleader camp in The Land of Evil. That's right. We're heading to Auburn. ; ) They've worked really hard and come so far. We compete in a home pom competition Tuesday night. I hope all their work pays off. I'm definitely proud of them regardless of the outcome. If you run into my husband this week, and he looks hungry, please invite him over for dinner. If I were my mom, I would have his meals prepared for the week. But I'm not her. I did buy sandwich meat and frozen pizzas. Does that count? This will be the longest we've been apart since we got married. I'll let you know how that goes.We're being lazy together this Sunday afternoon. I've made brownies and he's promised to grill hamburger steaks tonight. The picture above is what I've been looking at as I blog. Bradley's practicing. Have an extra good week. I'll try to have pictures to post when I return.

Updates

2010-06-03T13:34:00.001-07:00

Jim has been to 2 interviews in 2 days and has a 3rd tomorrow. We're excited for him and he seems to be excited too. We're praying that God will place him in the job that he needs to be in. We do have a preference, as one is particularly close to us. But we also know that sometimes we don't know best. He feels good about both interviews so far. He can talk to anyone. He is definitely my daddy's son.

This week has been a nice start to summer. For some reason unknown to me, I scheduled cheerleader practice at 8:00 every morning this week. (they're doing so good! I'm proud of them!) I think my reasoning was practice early, tan afterwards. Well the rain threw a kink in that. I've been napping instead of tanning. We did get to swim for a few hours this afternoon before the storm rolled in. There's nothing like a good swim, then coming home to be lazy while it storms.

In other news, we will not be attending Bama Jam this year. We didn't think pregnancy/nausea/ heat/crowds would be a good combination. So we opted out. I did send my boots to Bama Jam...with Brittany. She promised there would be no mud wrestling or jello wrestling while wearing my boots. This came as a relief to Bradley. It took me quite a while to convince him that I "needed" those boots "really bad". I think I'll teach Ella Kate those words pretty soon after birth. We could team up, and get all kinds of things that we "need really bad".

Hope you all have a great Friday and a wonderful weekend.

And her name will be...

2010-05-28T16:26:00.000-07:00

Ella Kate. Unless she grows an appendage...and then we'll go with Hudson. Bradley's great-grandmother was named Kate. He thought a lot of Granny and I've heard some stories about Granny that are great. We both just like the name Ella. If you're reading this and you're due before me and take my name, I might hunt you down.

School is OUT and I am so glad. Days like today make me think if we don't get out of here soon, I could do something illegal. Too much to get done and 146.5 stories for me to listen to. I do love them. I'll love them all the more in August. My plan for this summer is to float, get bigger, and tan.

Although this was a happy day for the most of us, there are many teachers who received bad news on the last day of school. My brother was one of them. I am so upset for him. Not so much as a "thank you for what you've done here" or a "we're sorry to have to do this". It's a shame. I know the time he put into that school. And they lost a great teacher and coach. But we know that God has better plans. We've known this was a possibility for quite some time. And our prayer has been that God would place Jim where He wanted him. Please pray for him as he begins to search for a new job.

I'll end this post on a happier note. My "begin summer right" plan is this: I'm out to eat tonight with friends, swimming afterwards because I CAN, and possibly to Opp tomorrow morning to see the parents and share in a delicious Hardee's biscuit. I use the term share loosely. I will definitely have my very own biscuit, and possibly 2.

(Sidenote: I am currently watching Bradley chase Molly trying to trim her nails. It's very entertaining.)

Happy Summertime!!!!!!!!!!!!

It's a Girl!

2010-05-21T14:47:00.000-07:00

At least we're 95% sure it's a girl or so we were told. I'm only 16 weeks and didn't have a scheduled ultrasound, but Brittany, who I used to beat in basketball all the time ; ) , was working when we went for a checkup yesterday and I asked her to let us peek. First she told me a girl. Then she told me she wasn't positive. Then she told me she was 90% sure, but she wanted the other tech to look. She also told me to "leave the tags on anything pink." The other tech came in to check, and Baby Bowers has decided to sit up on her knees. (You'd think I could feel this, but I don't.) They bounced the probe on my stomach a little, and she finally adjusted so they could see. They told me they were 95% sure it was girl. She said she'd be shocked if it wasn't. I'd post pictures, but I can't figure out how to work our scanner, so when B gets home, I'll let him scan them in and I'll add them.

We're thrilled that it's a girl! I was a little surprised, but Bradley thought all along it was a girl. I think a girl will be fun. Bradley is thinking more expensive than fun. You know I can do some shopping. B is concerned she'll like to shop as much as me. I already have purchased 3 swimsuits for this summer. He just shakes his head, but I plan on exercising/floating (more floating than exercising) a lot this summer. And every girl needs a swimsuit rotation. What does he expect me to do??? Wear the same one every day?

Hope everyone's weekend is very relaxing during this busy time of year...if you need me I'll be trying out 1 of my 3 new suits and "taking a tan" as my friend calls it.

Weekdays are good. Weekends are better.

2010-05-15T07:29:00.000-07:00

It's 9:30 on Saturday morning. Molly is asleep on her bed by my chair. Bradley is still asleep, we're going over to the in-laws in a bit to "take a tan", AND our house is clean, clean, clean...that makes for a good morning. We've had a busy week. Bradley finished up spring football last night. I have cheerleader camp in less than a month. So we're both putting in our time at school right now. All that and I still cooked a few times this week and cleaned. I know, I know...you're impressed. :)

I have a few random things to share. First of all, we hope to find out if we're having a boy or girl on Thursday. We are so excited. Also, we now have a doppler at our house. (Thank you, mother-in-law.) It is THE BEST. I listen to that heartbeat at least 3 times a day. It makes it all seem a little more real. I can't feel the baby yet, but I can hear it moving with the doppler. I'm hoping to be able to feel it soon.

Last night after the spring game, we had a late mexican dinner with the Bartons and the Manesses. I know the people there were wondering when we'd all go home. It was so much fun...lots of laughs and a few stories made my eyes get really BIG. I also enjoyed seeing 3 men sitting in a row with matching shirts on. It doesn't take much to entertain me.

And one last thing: I teach first grade and my kids always say the funniest things. This week has been no exception. I got a little sick in class Thursday morning. While this was happening I heard a student say to another student, "she's ok. That baby's just kicking her and making her sick." Yesterday we were making aquariums to go along with our study of the ocean. We used paper plates and plastic wrap. I was helping them put them together and A said, "Mrs. Bowers, how'd you get so good at this?" I laughed and told him I didn't know...maybe a lot of practice. He responded, "You just got skills, don't you?" HILARIOUS. His mom reads our blog and I know she'll enjoy that. He has provided my entertainment many days this year.

Wishing you an extra good weekend...

Very Brief Update

2010-05-09T19:54:00.000-07:00

1. Still nauseous
2. Still eating, therefore
3. Still growing
4. BUT...only 15 school days left...can't wait! I love teaching, but I love summer too.

14 Weeks

2010-05-03T16:59:00.001-07:00

My sweet husband told me last week that I'm "putting on a little weight". But he "meant it in a cute way" or so he said. I am 14 weeks today. I've reached that point where my pants won't button, but the maternity clothes are too big. I have decided I really do like an elastic waste though...I may stick with those after pregnancy. I also really like this contraption called a "bella band" that goes over my pants that will no longer button and holds them up.

I ran into a college friend at WalMart Saturday. It was really good to see her. (Hi Mandi) She told me I didn't make pregnancy seem very glamorous. It struck me as funny, but I've thought about that since I talked with her. I don't mean to make it sound that way. We are VERY THANKFUL for this pregnancy. But if I told you it's all been fun and enjoyable, I'd be lying. Physically, it's the hardest thing I've experienced and I haven't been through labor yet. But I'm sure not all pregnancies are like this. And even though it's been tough, I have no doubt it will all be worth it. We do feel blessed and are thankful.

In other news:
1. We have a crib. There's no turning back now.
2. Our dog did not sleep with us last night. Yeah!
3. There are 19 school days left.
4. I just ate a whole frozen pizza by myself.
5. I'm going to start running in about 6 months...someone remind me of of that closer to time.

Here's hoping your week is extra good and little things happen that make you smile.

5 Things I've Learned This Week

2010-04-24T15:19:00.000-07:00

1. Just because you reach the end of the first trimester does NOT mean the nausea goes away.
2. My husband and I can consume one whole box of Hamburger Helper Cheeseburger Macaroni and not bat and eye. (I'm eating for 2.) Obviously #1 is not slowing me down.
3. Pregnancy changes a whole lot of things...namely my food choices. I have always been known to love a soft drink. No tea, sometimes water, usually a soft drink. Not so anymore. I cannot handle a soft drink. It's tea or water. That's it. I also crave random things. Last night it was baked beans. Normally I don't do baked beans. But I decided yesterday and I needed some really bad. One night this week it was pigs in a blanket. Another day it was salad. If you know me well, you know this is odd.
4. B's class reunion is the end of October...10 days before my due date. I'll be extra large by then. But hey, so will lots of people. At least I have an excuse.
5. There's nothing like the love of a first grader who has missed his/her teacher for 12 days. They were the best! They told me they could not touch my tummy but they could hug me from the side. So many of them told me they prayed for us. They were precious.

Wishing you a comfortable Saturday at home listening to the rain...

A Good Report

2010-04-21T15:40:00.001-07:00

We went back to the doctor today to make sure everything was still ok. The baby seems fine. Heartbeat was at 162. It had it's feet in the air and it's hand behind it's head...relaxing. I also am healing fine. 4 scars and a testimony of God's faithfulness...we are so thankful.

So Blessed

2010-04-20T09:53:00.000-07:00

Bradley and I have talked several times about how God's hand was on us last week. We know God's hand is always on us, but there are times that we're reminded a little. Last week was one of those times. We go back to the doctor tomorrow morning. I'm a little nervous about the ultrasound. I need one of those dopplers at home. ; ) I've tried to talk Bradley into it. He just shakes his head. He gives me that response often. He has been wonderful through all of this. I am so blessed to have him.

The sickness was better for a few days, but has returned. I am 12 weeks pregnant, so I can't decided if I'm "pregnant sick" or sick from the meds I have to take right now. I'm hoping they take me off those tomorrow.

I've been straightening our house today and trying to figure out which dishes go to which person. Everyone has been so good to bring us meals and snacks. I have many thank you notes to finish. Last night I graded 2 weeks worth of papers and got those in the computer. I'm accomplishing way more than I was a week ago. I'm hoping to be back to work on Thursday. That's the plan anyway.

Hope your Tuesday is finding you well. I'll post after our doctor visit tomorrow. Thank you for all your prayers.

And then there was Monday...

2010-04-13T12:07:00.000-07:00

If you read the previous post, you know that we spent most of the weekend in the hospital. Sunday night I ran some fever, and my husband, being the smart man that he is, had read the instructions the doctor gave us and knew we were to call her if I ran any fever. So he called and she told us if we could get the fever down to come back Monday morning to the office. I was under the impression that I might have a UTI and thought I was going in for a urine test and blood work. So Bradley went to work and my mom took me to Dr. Johnston's office. We had another ultrasound (this baby may have more pictures made before it's arrival than after). The tech never gave any indication that anything was wrong. Heartbeat was strong, etc. She sent us over to see the doctor. Dr. J followed my mom and me into the room and said something to this effect, "Your ovary is twisted. Maybe it's been twisting and untwisting causing the pain, but as of right now it's twisted and you need surgery today. I'll schedule you for 1:00." This was somewhere around 10:45. After a small panic attack and several phone calls, I was in a room ready for surgery at 12:55. Bradley, our families, and some close friends arrived in time to see me off. I have NEVER had surgery. And I had no idea what was about to happen. I knew there was a risk to the baby...our biggest concern. I knew they would try to drain the cyst, but might have to remove my ovary...another concern. So off we went...the next thing I knew I was headed to recovery. They told me my baby was ok and let me hear the heartbeat. They also told me they had to remove my left ovary and tube. We have been overwhelmed by the phone calls and messages from family and friends. This was a scary time for us both. Bradley told me this morning that he thought I was holding it together better than him yesterday. I thought he was holding it together better than me.

Let me give Flowers Hospital a little plug: There was not one person who we dealt with who did not go above and beyond their duties. They were the kindest and most patient people to work with...from the ER to the 2nd floor where we spent several nights. I think it is rare to find people of that quality. But they're still around. We appreciate each of them so much.

And the most important thing, I have to share how BIG God was in this. He showed His hand many times through this ordeal. It makes me so thankful and also so overwhelmed with emotion to think about it now. I had fever for a few hours Sunday night...that was all. Had we not noticed it, we would not have seen the doctor until next week. The blood supply to my ovary was cut off. If left alone, it could have been so much worse on the baby and myself. Also, the nurse I had going into surgery. God placed her there. She had been through the same procedure while pregnant. She told me her baby was fine and that she went on to have another. She was such and encouragement. She told me she was praying for me as they wheeled me out. This morning my nurse was unable to find a heartbeat. So they sent me for an ultrasound. My tech happened to be a sweet girl from Opp who I took dance with many, many, many years ago. She probably didn't know it, but I needed her familiar face this morning. And God knew it.

We are so thankful for everything. There's no way this post expresses it all. But we have no doubt that God was with us the entire time. Bro. Tony, who married us, shared a verse with us from Isaiah yesterday as we were preparing for surgery. I'm sure he had no idea that I've read that verse many times and that it's underlined in my Bible because I find it so encouraging. Thank you, God, for your presence and for your plan. We are filled with gratefulness for Your goodness.

This is not the weekend I expected...

2010-04-10T15:17:00.000-07:00

I came home from school Wednesday afternoon and fell asleep immediately. I remember Bradley telling me to get up because I wouldn't sleep through the night if I slept all afternoon. Little did he know neither of us would do much sleeping that night.

I've known I have a cyst on my left ovary for almost 2 months now. The past week, I've been it's been more uncomfortable than usual. I woke up around 1:30 Thursday morning in some pain on my left side. I moved around and tried to go back to sleep. At 3:00 I decided something was wrong. I woke Bradley up and we called my doctor. They told us we could come to the emergency room or wait until 8 to see the doctor on call. I have never hurt like that in my life. So we called my mom and left home at 4 a.m. headed to Dothan. We had an ultrasound in the ER. Everything was fine with the baby. It's heartbeat was strong and it was kicking it's legs. They told me there wasn't much they could do for the pain and I should see my doctor. So we slept in the car waiting until 10:30 for another ultrasound and to see the doctor. We thought the cyst had ruptured, but after seeing the ultrasound, it was in tact. The explanation we were given is that because the cyst is large AND my uterus is growing, things were getting crowded. They said the cyst might be twisting some ligaments and causing the pain. When I saw the doctor, the pain had eased and he sent us home with a prescription for Tylenol 3. We were 3 minutes down the road when I was doubled over again. They pain was so strong I was sick to my stomach. Bradley's mom was working in Newton at the doctor's office so we stopped by there to see if they could help me. Someone went to fill my prescription. I took 2 Tylenol and we started home. I was sleepy but still in A LOT of pain. I could find NO relief. I couldn't sit, I couldn't stand, I couldn't lay down. So Bradley's mom called the doctor and they prescribed Loratab. I took one and waited...no relief. They told us to come back to the ER. So off we went...for the longest ride ever. I was given 2 doses of morphine when we got there. They they started me on Demoral. I was finally able to rest some. They moved me to a room around 1:30 Friday morning. They told me surgery would be a last resort, because of the danger to the baby. Their goal was to control my pain. I've had more pain medicine in the last 3 days than I've had in my entire life. They sent me home today at lunch. I'm trying to survive on Loratab. But the pain is still excruciating at times.

For those of you who have called or come by, we appreciate it so much. Please keep us in your prayers. I need to save my sick days, but know I cannot function in this state at school. It is all very overwhelming and scary. I feel we would be better off if the cyst would just rupture. They told me it wouldn't harm the baby and I'd have instant relief. Please, please pray for Bradley, myself, and the baby.

A Visit from a Friend

2010-04-03T15:32:00.001-07:00

I am pleased to share that I cooked breakfast this morning (big accomplishment). We had biscuits, bacon, and Bradley had eggs. I don't do eggs. It was nice. We even had juice and we never have juice. We laid around for a while laughing at Molly. Then my phone rang...it was my long lost "bestest" friend, Allie, who currently lives in Kentucky. She was home for Easter and was coming to visit. Visitors are always a good incentive to clean and we needed some motivation. Allie, her sister, and her little John Marshall came about middle of the afternoon. It was so nice to see them. Allie and I talk every other week or so but we don't see each other often. When we do visit, it's like we never left off. I am so thankful for her and our friendship. JM slept the whole time. Bradley and I both got a little practice holding a baby. She had JM November 6th I believe...and I am due November 1st. There should be a year between them. I asked lots of pregnancy questions while she was here. It was just an enjoyable time of catching up.

Bradley is gone to Enterprise to check out a truck and pick up supper. I'm parked in the recliner. I'm looking forward to tomorrow and hoping for a good day. I have been a little emotional with all there is to be thankful for this Easter. May your Easter be a time of reflection and a blessed time with family.

Happy Wednesday

2010-03-31T18:04:00.000-07:00

It's been a fairly uneventful week. Bradley is in the midst of spring football. And I will begin cheerleader practice with a brand new group of girls next week. The "sickness" comes and goes...mostly it comes...after lunch and stays til I go to bed. Nights are rough around our house. But I'm currently 9 1/2 weeks pregnant...I hope that means not very many more sick weeks to go.

I have an announcement to make. I cleaned our bathroom Monday. I am ashamed to admit it's the first time since I've found out I was pregnant that I've cleaned the bathroom. Bradley was so proud to be able to see himself in the mirror again. Normally I'm a clean freak and clean more than necessary. But that's been not so important to me over the past month or so. I've been spending alot of time around the toilet and was very aware that it wasn't very clean. But there's something about nausea that makes that a minor detail. Oh...and did you know the water in the toilet has a smell???? It does. I smell it AND anything else that might smell the slightest bit.

In other news, we've decided to take a trip this summer...one last hoorah for the childless couple. We've considered a cruise, or a trip to the Keys, or maybe Savannah, GA. We're leaning toward the Keys...maybe a little road trip down the coast. Does anyone have a jeep we can borrow????? I'm joking...although I love a jeep. [Insert story: I drove one to the beach by myself once. The wind beat me to death and by the time I got to Opp (from Luverne) I was thinking the jeep was a big mistake. It was confirmed when the bottom fell out upon my arrival in Florala. Did I mention I had just pulled over and put the bikini top on (the jeep, not myself)? There were still no doors. I was drenched by the time I got to the beach. But it was an experience for sure.] If you have suggestions for the trip, we'd love to hear them.

10 Random Thoughts

2010-03-24T17:35:00.001-07:00

1. I had a good day. Best I've felt in 3 weeks. Thank you, Lord.

2. My husband bit my arm Monday night in his sleep. He apologized. But remembers neither.

3. I love ARBY's.

4. B wants to go to Ozark and watch wrestling tomorrow night. NO.

5. Molly decided to take Bradley's medicine on Monday.

6. I had Mr. Henry's cookies for breakfast this morning. I had to put gas in my car and they were calling to me from the case. Do you think that's why they place them by the register?

7. When I was doing my internship, I ate 2 Mr. Henry's cookies and drank a Mt. Dew EVERY morning. How in the world??????????????

8. My brother-in-law raked our yards and cut our grass yesterday...without our knowledge. He's alright sometimes. ; )

9. I told my husband yesterday while laying in my bedroom floor that I just didn't think I could do this. I might have been crying...possibly. He told me we could have 1 and be done, but he thought it was a little late for this one.

10. There's nothing like a new Better Homes and Gardens in the mailbox.

Happy Hump Day!