Livin' Our Love Song

33 years old!

2011-02-06T13:54:00.001-05:00

I had a wonderful birthday celebrating with Chris and Corban. We had dinner at one of my favorite local restaurants, Portofinos. I highly suggest eating there if you a local in the Greenville area. Corban even sang me happy birthday (see previous post).

I just can't get enough of this precious face!

2011-02-06T13:47:00.000-05:00

Smiley Face

2011-02-06T13:41:00.004-05:00

Corban is packed and ready for daycare. His first week was a success! Although he did pick up a cough and runny nose, he seems to be adjusting well. His 2 teachers say that he is just so sweet and all the noise of the other kids doesn't bother him at all-Success! From the time he was little we tried to make sure that he was used to having sound around, either a radio or TV. We didn't want the house to be so quiet while he was sleeping that we couldn't get anything done.
Pictures from his first day coming soon!

14 Weeks Old

2011-02-06T11:55:00.000-05:00

13 Weeks Old

2011-02-06T11:53:00.000-05:00

Corban must have

2011-01-18T22:01:00.003-05:00

How cute are these? If any child should have these, it definitely should be Corban. :)

UPDATE: We bought these for Corban when we were on our anniversary trip and they were 40% off!

The best birthday present

2011-01-17T17:04:00.002-05:00

Corbans sings me Happy Birthday! Priceless!

My little monkey

2011-01-14T21:40:00.003-05:00

First, let me tell you a story about this little monkey. The first weekend that Chris came to visit (Labor Day 2007) I had to work that Friday. While I was at work, he went and played a round of golf and then went to the mall and made me the above monkey at Build-A-Bear. Since they didn't have any Clemson clothes, he even went to the SC shop at the mall and bought a baby Clemson outfit. This monkey still sits in our bedroom and is one of the many reminders of what a sweet and thoughtful husband I have.
Side note: Chris didn't know, but my dad had recently done the same thing for my mom.

Now, I have two little monkeys and life just can't get any better!

Tummy Time

2011-01-14T21:36:00.003-05:00

He is doing so great at holding his head up!
12 weeks old

Check out these rolls

2011-01-14T21:34:00.003-05:00

...and to think we were concerned about his weight. He loves being naked!

Early Bird

2011-01-14T21:29:00.003-05:00

Chris is a night owl and would sleep in 'til noon if he could. I, on the other hand, am ususally up by 8am on the weekends and ready the get the day started. By the looks of it, I think we have an early riser on our hands. This is the precious face that greets me every morning.

12 Weeks old

2011-01-14T21:25:00.003-05:00

An amazing snowfall

2011-01-10T18:00:00.003-05:00

This was Corban this morning. All dressed up and no one to play with.

We waited for Chris to make it safely home (whew!) and then Corban decided it was time to take a nap so we didn't get out in the snowfall until later in the day after Chris woke up.

My car deep in snow

Yeah!! Corban loves the snow.

Chris is finally up. Although not dressed for the weather, I just had to get a photo of these two.

Brrr...he looks cold!

All smiles

2011-01-08T21:17:00.004-05:00

Corban loves attention. My parents came up this weekend and they can't keep their hands off of him and I am so thankful. From the moment they arrive, they do every feeding, every diaper chage, EVERYTHING! Corban is all smiles and mom is too! :)

11 weeks old

2011-01-08T21:16:00.000-05:00

Our resolution

2011-01-04T22:06:00.001-05:00

Corban all bundled up to go walking with us
Whew...he's all worn out

kissy kissy

2011-01-04T22:00:00.001-05:00

Through my eyes

2011-01-04T21:51:00.002-05:00

The guys are just hanging out watching football. Corban thinks he is such a big boy.

Gotta love his knee high socks. :)

Chris' family Christmas

2011-01-04T13:52:00.003-05:00

Chris' parents

A few days after Christmas, Chris' family had their annual get together in Walterboro. This was the longest trip for Corban yet. He did get a little squirmy about halfway through the trip so we made a pit stop for eating and changing. Once we got there, he was so good. He enjoys being passed around and meeting all his new family members. Below are some pictures from the evening.

4 generations

Corban just hanging out with his sweet cousins

Cutie pie in his Santa shirt

One of my favorite gifts

2011-01-04T13:34:00.002-05:00

For Christmas this year, my SIL gave us a kids set of our Christmas china. I was so surprised at this awesome gift. I had no idea there was even such a thing. Now Corban, and all of our future kiddos will be able to eat on plates just like mommy and daddy.

This is our Christmas china
and this is the kids version of our Christmas china

10 weeks old

2011-01-04T13:28:00.001-05:00

New Years

2011-01-03T22:34:00.002-05:00

Yes, I've made a resolution to lose weight...along with the rest of America. It just happens to all be at the same time: having a baby, returning to work, and new years. I need to get my rear in gear and shed this baby weight. Chris has decided to train for a race, which makes going for walks/runs a little more fun since daddy is with us. I added a ticker at the top of blog, not necessarily for our visitors to keep up with my weight loss, but I needed some accountability.
Wish me luck on a healthier new year!

9 weeks old

2011-01-03T00:11:00.000-05:00

Christmas Day

2011-01-02T23:48:00.004-05:00

A Santa hat from our neighbor
Decorations from the front of our home

We had a white Christmas and it was beautiful.

Corban hanging out his in Christmas pjs from GammieOne of his first ornaments

We drove back from Columbia on Christmas Eve so we could wake up to Santa at our home. I made a breakfast casserole, just like mom does and we enjoyed just snuggling on the couch all morning. In fact, we actually didn't get around to opening presents until that afternoon. I enjoy being in a marriage that focuses on the things that matter...each other, not the fancy bows or the pretty paper, but the love of one another and the gift of our salvation. The best Christmas present we could have received was a little sack of sugar that arrived a few weeks early, our precious Corban. He is a gift for God and we thank Him everyday for such a sweet baby boy.

My parents were able to come up on Christmas day to spend some time with us and Corban. We made homemade pizzas and just enjoyed the company. I loved spending time with my grandparents and want to make sure that Corban has those same sweet memories. We try to see each of our families as much as possible.

Corban's gift to his dad

2011-01-02T23:39:00.002-05:00

In awe and wonder of what's to come

Chris began collecting the Willow Tree nativity set many years ago and recently just completed it. Corban saw this figurine and thought it would be a perfect gift for his daddy. This just brings tears to my eyes, because this is exactly the way Chris holds Corban when he is talking to him and gives him kisses and tells him stories. I am absolutely amazed at what a wonderful father Chris is. He can calm Corban in a way that I can't. He prepares our dinners when I am exhausted from keeping up with the baby and housework all day. He gets up to feed him during the night even when he is working. He sings songs and plays the guitar for him. He laughs with Corban when they are having story time and doesn't even think twice about changing his diaper. He has truly spoiled me and I am so happy for Corban that he has a daddy that gives him so much attention. I am truly blessed!

Santa Claus is coming to town

2011-01-02T23:23:00.002-05:00

Cookies and milk for Santa as well as our two favorite Christmas stories that we read to Corban, one from the bible and one that his Big Daddy and Gammie gave him, The Night Before Christmas

I remember being so mesmerized when I was a child at the crumbs left from Santas cookies and the lip marks on the glass of milk. I couldn't believe that Santa had actually been there. We pray that Corban will understand the true meaning of the season and also find magic in the spirit of the season.

Our Christmas tree with lots of goodies for family and friends underneath

Santa left some goodies for Corban. At first Chris wasn't a big fan of Santa coming to visit, but I just couldn't imagine Santa not visiting Corban for his first Christmas. Basically he got some little necessities since there isn't much he needs right now. Corban was very excited about getting a new crib sheet, washclothes, some shirts (12 month-they were on sale and everything I buy in the month of December gets wrapped up), a book The Polar Express and a special note from Santa just for Corban for him to treasure for many years.

A Caudle Tradition

2011-01-02T23:13:00.002-05:00

Every Christmas Eve, our sweet neighbors and friends host a party. This has been a tradition for many years with the Caudle family. We go to Christmas Eve service at the church and then to the Hogans. I'm so happy that the tradition continues for the Lack family now too.

Corban is meeting his new little buddy, Easton for the first time.

Can't you tell how excited he is :)

I know they will be great buddies!

Some of you may not know, but there is a country music singer named Easton Corbin.

Although Corban's name is spelled a little different, we thought it was pretty neat.

One of these days we need to get a picture of the boys and mail it to Easton Corbin for his signature. I'm sure he will be flattered that two boys, born on the same day, share his name.

Daddy attempting to multitask
Corban modeling his JohnJohn he received as a gift before he was born from Aunt Ann & Uncle Lawrence.

Christmas Eve

2011-01-02T23:08:00.001-05:00

Our new family of 3 with my parents at Union
Corban with his grandparents

Posing for pictures on the pew

My little man in his JohnJohn

2 months old

2011-01-02T23:00:00.002-05:00

My how time flies by. Our little baby boy is 2 months old already! He is really such a good baby. We can sit him in a bouncy seat and he will entertain himself, loves to go for walks with mom, snuggles with us all the time, doesn't mind having his diaper changed and is getting better with holding his head up. When we read him books, he is starting to pay more attention to the pictures on the page. He smiles a ton although not so much when its picture taking time.

One nickname we have for Corban is "Wild Man"

This is his "wild man" hair style

This is a picture of his hair brushed. I think he looks like a completely different child.

Which one is your favorite?

Again, so sorry but I don't know how to turn the pictures.

One of my favorites

2011-01-02T22:55:00.002-05:00

Every picture I take of Corban is just so cute, but I think this one is definitely one of my favorites. Our dear friend, Mrs. Hogan gave him the Clemson sock monkey. I could just eat him up with a spoon...he is the sweetest baby!!

8 weeks old

2011-01-02T22:52:00.000-05:00

Tis the season

2011-01-02T22:49:00.000-05:00

Our precious Christmas gift

Christmas Party

2011-01-02T22:44:00.001-05:00

Doesn't his hair look so red?
Our sweet friend, Christina giving Corban some extra hugs

Small group girls

Not a happy camper

2011-01-02T22:41:00.002-05:00

Corban does NOT love his car seat, although he tolerates it a little more now.
But isn't he so cute in his Little Slugger hat?

Tummy Time

2011-01-02T22:39:00.002-05:00

Usually every morning either before his 1st nap or right after, we read a book and have tummy time. Unfortunatly this morning, Corban decided to start his nap a little early.

Santa...I know him!

2011-01-02T22:33:00.002-05:00

Who knew that pictures with Santa at the mall were $20? Ummm...no thanks. This family living on a Dave Ramsey budget isn't paying $20. So we waited for Santa to make a quick stop for some fast food...and that he did, at CFA on Pelham Road. I receive text messages about special events or free food occasionally from that location. One afternoon when Chris was at work, I got a text that Santa was stopping by from 5-8pm. We got bundled up and headed over there about 4:45 and were 1st in line! Santa was so sweet and gave Corban lots of hugs. Thank you Chick-fil-A for providing a special treat!

Tummy time is working

2011-01-02T22:32:00.000-05:00

Look mom! I can hold my head up!

6 weeks old

2011-01-02T22:26:00.001-05:00

7 weeks old

2011-01-02T22:21:00.003-05:00

Such a stud muffin

Our 1st Thanksgiving as a family of 3

2011-01-02T22:18:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving from the Lacks

deal of the day

2011-01-02T16:44:00.002-05:00

My mom knew I really wanted a Baby Bjorn, but certainitly didn't want to pay full price. She checked out a local consignment shop and got this one for $10! We haven't used it but a few times and thankfully Corban enjoys it. Thanks, Mom!

Big boy

2011-01-02T16:41:00.001-05:00

Corban can hold up his own bottle.

Not really, but I thought his attempt was so cute.

5 weeks old

2011-01-02T16:39:00.001-05:00

My first attempt at an apple pie

2011-01-02T16:29:00.002-05:00

As American as an apple pie is, I've never attempted to make. Surprised, right? I was flipping through a magazine and saw a recipe for a Sour Cream Apple Pie and thought I would give it a try. I called up a friend and borrowed her super awesome gadget to use on the apples, which definitely saved tons of time. Our thanksgiving guests enjoyed it and we were even able to take one of the pies to our local fire department. One simple way we say "thanks" to our community.

I borrowed an apple/corer/peeler/slicer from friend. It was awesome.

I quickly added one to my Christmas wish list.

Using my kitchenaid mixer I got many years ago for Christmas.

All the cut up apples mixed with the sour cream mixture

The finished product with the yummy, crumbly topping.

SUCCESS!

Corban's first Thanksgiving

2011-01-02T16:20:00.004-05:00

Already worn out and the festivities haven't even startedGrandmama (Chris' mom)

Gammie (my mom)

As cute as this bib is, I'm not convinced he thinks it's cute.

Look at him cutting those eyes...still precious

Corban's first bath

2011-01-02T16:13:00.004-05:00

This is pretty much what Corban thought of his first bath.

He enjoyed just relaxing in the warm water.
Who is that cute baby?

What just happened?

Sweet sleeping baby

2011-01-02T16:10:00.001-05:00

4 weeks old

2011-01-02T16:04:00.002-05:00

Go Tigers!

2011-01-02T15:55:00.002-05:00

Corban was able to watch a few football games this year.What's up?

Nice Catch!

Whew! What a game.

Tigers lose :(

Finally...a swing!

2011-01-02T15:49:00.002-05:00

Corban helping daddy put his swing togetherHe loves it!

Chris and I finally slowed down enough to watch The Happiest Baby on the Block and decided to get Corban a swing. Of course we picked out the one with orange on it. We brought it home that night, put it together and Corban slept in it every night for about 2 weeks. We found the five S's to be very helpful in soothing him if he gets upset. What we once thought was gas problems, really was us just not doing a good job of helping his transition into the real world.

3 weeks old

2011-01-02T15:46:00.002-05:00

Corban loves daddy time

2011-01-02T15:29:00.003-05:00

2 weeks old

2011-01-02T15:25:00.002-05:00

Corban looks just like his daddy

2011-01-02T15:21:00.001-05:00

I can't believe how much they look alike. The picture on the right side is Chris' baby picture.

I wish I knew how to turn a picture before uploading it. sorry!

1 week old

2011-01-02T15:17:00.001-05:00

Settling in at home

2011-01-02T15:10:00.002-05:00

Sweet, sweet baby

One of my favorite pictures. He loves being swaddled.

Big Daddy feeding Corban

Snuggling up with a picture of mommy and daddy
The cutest pumpkin in the patch!

First days at home

2011-01-02T14:59:00.003-05:00

Just arrived home.
the first morning, enjoying daddy time

The hospital brings you a cake and sparkling grape juice for the baby's BIRTHday.

He found his thumb!
but prefers his Wubbanub.

Snapshots from our room

2011-01-02T14:47:00.002-05:00

Aunt McMc (Kristie) who was at the hospital the whole day

A flag that Big Daddy bought so everyone would know a little tiger was born

not quite sure what's going on

Nice and warm

Kisses fromd daddy

Getting ready to go home

2011-01-02T14:37:00.003-05:00

His outfit is huge! And we thought it was so little when we ordered it.

His was all snug in the car seat. Notice that Chris still has him swaddled!

Yep, the nurse unswaddled him and fastened him in correctly.

Corban was not happy about that

After 3 nights in the hospital we were ready to go home...not really

And we are on the way

Excited Grandparents, Aunt & Uncles

2011-01-02T14:28:00.003-05:00

My mom (Gammie)

Chris' parents

My dad (Big Daddy)Aunt Ann & Uncle Lawrence

quck summary of his arrival

2011-01-02T14:09:00.004-05:00

Arriving at the hospital
Chris is ready for the OR

One last picture before the c-seciton

He's here!

Although I wasn't due until 11/10, Corban was ready to come out and play. He arrived a day short of 3 weeks early. Chris was on night shift and was at work Thursday night. I woke up about 2:30am to a wet bed...my water broke! I quickly called the emergency number for Chris and got him on the phone. His trip home from work is usually a little over an hour. That morning he went from work to the mountain house (to get the camera) and then made it home in about 55 minutes! I still hadn't had any contractions at this point, which by now is 4:00. While waiting on him I washed dishes, watered the plants, made some hot chocolate and picked up the house a little bit. We got to the hospital about 5am. Once we checked in, the nurse confirmed that my water had broken so began the journey of having a baby.

At 6:30pm the doctor suggested that we consider a c-section. Chris and I were completly ok with that option. We could tell that Corban was in a little bit of stress when I was having contractions and we didn't want that to continue. We were very thankful that we decided to do that because after the c-section the doctor told us that the umbilical cord had been wrapped around his next twice, must have been from all the flips he was doing in the belly. He even had a little bruise on his nose and some red marks on his forehead from resting on my pelvic bone. Praise God he came out healthly!

The hospital staff at the hospital was wonderful and confirmed our decision to change OB practices so that we were able to deliver at Greer Memorial. Our room was huge and we had lots of room for family and friends that came to visit. In fact, we even were able to change rooms to a bigger room that wasn't being used...very nice!

I saw God today

2011-01-02T14:02:00.002-05:00

Corban Michael Lack
October 22, 2010 at 8:20pm
6 pounds, 5 ounces
21 inches long

Diaper Bag Arrives

2010-10-13T20:03:00.002-04:00

We have had the hardest time finding a diaper bag that isn't too girly and isn't too expensive. Seriously, some bags are over $100! That is just nuts! The bag we ordered was waiting by the front door when I got home today and tomorrow I will take it to be monogrammed.

Just imagine CML monogrammed in orange above the 2 pockets. Just perfect for our little man!

Practing for the Amazing Race

2010-10-13T19:51:00.004-04:00

On Saturday we went to a corn maize in Pendleton at Denver Downs Farm. One of these days we want to be on the Amazing Race so we decided to start practicing now :)
Check out the overhead view of the maize. Pretty cool!

Vote Now!

2010-09-06T16:24:00.004-04:00

I want to get one of these shirts. I think they are so cute and of course we all know...so true! :) Which one do you like the best?
OPTION 1

OPTION 2

Our Extended Family

2010-09-05T22:57:00.005-04:00

I don't think I have introduced our blog readers to our extended family of beagles. Yes, my parents have 3 dogs that keep them busy. The other weekend we were home and Chris took some super cute pictures of them that I just had to post. They are the sweetest dogs and each has their unique personality.
This is a quick story of each.
Romeo-my parents got him when my brother went off to college. My brother went to The Citadel and he was in Romeo company. I think my mom intended for him to be the only one. He is super shy and loves to be scratched.

Juliet-Can you really have a "Romeo" without a "Juliet?" My dad surprised us all by getting a companion a year later for Romeo. No way would mom agree to have a second dog, but eventually she gave in and she stayed. Juliet is pretty low key and love to sit in my dads lap every night.
Lucy-Actually Chris and I picked out Lucy at the Greenville Humane Society shortly after we started dating. She was a stray, but we quickly learned that she was crate trained and house broken. Due to my driving schedule with work, I would drop Lucy off to play with her "cousins." Eventually mom and dad decided they wanted to keep her and we weren't getting her back. Yes, that is the really abbreviated version. Lucy rules the group. She likes to get undivided attention and especially loves to sleep in moms lap.

Clemson football is finally here!

2010-09-05T22:37:00.003-04:00

Finally! Football season is here and we are so ready! There aren't many things that are much more exciting than watching the Tigers run down the hill, tailgating with friends, and counting down the weeks (in single digits) until Baby Lack arrives. Yesterday was the kickoff of the Clemson season and we had a blast. This year we decided to not purchase season tickets because we knew that due to the baby coming in November, we would not be able to attend all the games. A big thanks to the Clemson Career Center for the complimentary tickets to their Corporate Partners, we enjoyed the game in the shade and free of charge! And we couldn't have asked for better weather: high 87...not a normal temperature level for the first game. Usually we are lathered up with sunscreen, sweating like pigs, and still home with a sunburned tiger paw on my left cheek. Baby Lack was so excited to be there, he kept bouncing the whole time.
I did pay extra attention to the families that were juggling kids while at the game and I will admit I am a little nervous already for next year. How do you entertain a 10 month old when you barely have any elbow room. Any tips from those are successful at entertaining a child and watching a game? I have a feeling this is where grandparents come in handy! :)
Below are some pictures from the day. GO TIGERS!

Belly Pics

2010-09-05T22:18:00.003-04:00

30 Weeks
Oh gosh, this one is AWFUL. It was after work and I was ready to call it a night.

29 Weeks

27 Weeks

Could it be possible...

2010-09-02T20:27:00.003-04:00

that I can have access to my favorite Girl Scout cookies ALL year long? I think they are just like the Caramel Delights/Samoas that are sold in February.
Has anyone tried these yet?

Wish List

2010-08-22T16:59:00.004-04:00

I want these! I have wanted these all summer! Now that those hot football games are right around the corner, I want these even more!
When you are on a Dave Ramsey budget, $100 sandles aren't usually approved. :( Anyway, I will be sure to share if I'm able to save enough of my "blow it" money to snag these beauties.

Also, since these have white in them, am I allowed to wear them after Labor Day?

Part 2

2010-08-22T16:54:00.004-04:00

Total Spent: $3.50
Total Saved: $49.68

Update on my crazy couponing-Part 1

2010-08-22T16:47:00.002-04:00

Total Spent: $2.20
Total Saved: $45.21

More Belly

2010-08-18T21:30:00.004-04:00

26 Weeks

Anything Like Me

2010-08-18T20:40:00.003-04:00

Today on the way home from work I heard this song and was so excited to hear one about having a little boy. This is a new song by Brad Paisley. Click HERE to listen to the song.

Lyrics:
I remember sayin' I don't care either way
Just as long as he or she is healthy I'm ok
Then the doctor pointed to the corner of the screen
And said "You see that thing right there, well you know what that means"

And I started wondering who he was going to be
And I thought heaven help us if he's anything like me
He'll probably climb a tree too tall and ride his bike too fast
End up every summer wearing something in a cast
He's gonna throw a ball and break some glass in a window down the street
He's gonna get in trouble, oh he's gonna get in fights
I'm gonna lose my temper and some sleep
It's safe to say that I'm gonna get my pay back if he's anything like me

I can see him right now knees all skinned up
With a magnifying glass tryin to melt the Tonka truck
Won't he be a sight with his football helmet on?
That'll be his first love til his first love comes along
He'll get his heart broke by the time he's in his teens
And heaven help him if he's anything like me

He'll probably stay out too late and drive his car too fast
Get a speeding ticket he'll pay for mowing grass
He's gonna get caught skippin class and be grounded for a week
He's gonna get in trouble, we're gonna get in fights
Im gonna lose my temper and some sleep
It's safe to say that I'm gonna get my pay back if he's anything like me

He's gonna love me and hate me along the way
Years are gonna fly by, I already dread the day
He's gonna hug his momma, he's gonna shake my hand
He's gonna act like he can't wait to leave
But as he drives off he'll cry his eyes out
If he's anything like me
There's worst folks to be like, oh
He'll be alright if he's anything like me

A Guide To Saving Year Round

2010-08-18T20:29:00.002-04:00

I found this great list posted HERE but thought I would share as well.

What to Buy When

First of all the key is timing. Work with manufacturer discounts, clearance sales, off-season discounts and coupon and discount codes!

Electronics: A lot of electronics are made in Japan. The best time to get good deal is in the spring as they try to unload old inventory for the new fiscal year. Look at big screen TV’s before the Super Bowl too! For home theaters, in general the holidays can be a good time and January. Computers, a good rule of thumb is the middle of summer to take advantage of the back-to-school sales or winter holiday markdowns.

Furniture: The best time to buy furniture is Feb-April and Aug-October. So do some planning and look around during these times, you'll find the deals.

Toys: Obviously the holiday season is one of the best times to buy toys. The problem with the holiday season is that everyone else is buying then too and you might not find what you want. Try the end of summer clearance and October!

Cookware: One is in the spring, in April and May, coinciding with the graduation and wedding season. The other is in October and November, with promotions in regard to the holidays.

Clothing: Off-Season, clearance, and try going on Thursdays. If you wait until the weekend you're likely to find other folks ransacking for the best deals and selections which means things have been picked through. And don’t forget to bring coupons!

Appliances: Best time is September and October as new models are coming out.

Wedding Gowns: November

Car: First, shop online. You can find out the price of cars online and even locate what and where to buy what you want. Next, the next year's models come out in early fall and to make room - yes you guessed it again - the old inventory has to go. Shop in the early fall. Go at the end of the month - it's all about quotas. If the dealership has made their monthly quotas, they are likely to make a deal. The end of the year again is another great time as they are trying to get rid of all the old inventory.

Food & others:

January: Chocolate, soda, diet foods, frozen finger foods,linens, small appliances, air conditioners, carpeting, winter clothes, bikes, Christmas decorations, motorcycles, boats, sports and weight loss

February: Chocolate, steak, seafood(post Valentine's Day),oatmeal, boats

March:FrozenFoods, easter meal items i.e. eggs, ham, gardening items

April: Candy, eggs, ham, cheese, frozen pies, cake mix, electronics, vacuums, cookware, tires and auto supplies

May: Barbecue items i.e. hot dogs, beef, condiments, ice cream, party supplies, grill supplies

June: Ice cream, popsicles, soda, pianos, building materials, tools

July: BBQ items, chips, grill supplies

August: Cereal, breakfast bars, peanut butter, lunch meat, cold lunch items, yogurt, pool supplies, outdoor toys, bathing suits, summer clothes

September: Cereals, back to school snacks, hamburger, hot dogs, condiments, spaghetti sauce, cars, lawn mowers

October: canned fruits and veggies, dried fruits, stock up on holiday foods and soups and broths, large appliances, lawn mowers

November: Turkey, butter, cheese, canned goods, baking goods, cookware, tools, carpeting

December: Ham, butter, cheese, post-holiday sales, baking goods, some electronics, toys, winter clothes

Baby Lack-Update 7

2010-08-18T20:21:00.002-04:00

Week 28-By this week, your baby weighs two and a quarter pounds (like a Chinese cabbage) and measures 14.8 inches from the top of his head to her heels. He can blink his eyes, which now sport lashes. With his eyesight developing, he may be able to see the light that filters in through your womb. He's also developing billions of neurons in his brain and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world.

Week 27-This week, your baby weighs almost 2 pounds (like a head of cauliflower) and is about 14 1/2 inches long with his legs extended. He's sleeping and waking at regular intervals, opening and closing his eyes, and perhaps even sucking his fingers. With more brain tissue developing, your baby's brain is very active now. While his lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning — with a lot of medical help — if he were to be born now. Chalk up any tiny rhythmic movements you may be feeling to a case of baby hiccups, which may be common from now on. Each episode usually lasts only a few moments, and they don't bother him, so just relax and enjoy the tickle.

Week 26-The network of nerves in your baby's ears is better developed and more sensitive than before. He may now be able to hear both your voice and your partner's as you chat with each other. He's inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid, which is essential for the development of his lungs. These so-called breathing movements are also good practice for when he's born and takes that first gulp of air. And he's continuing to put on baby fat. He now weighs about a pound and two-thirds and measures 14 inches (an English hothouse cucumber) from head to heel. If you're having a boy, his testicles are beginning to descend into his scrotum — a trip that will take about two to three days.

Football is on my mind

2010-08-05T21:18:00.003-04:00

Click here to see of some great tailgating accessories. The Clemson Ice Cream Scoop is on my list and yes, I do know that you don't eat ice cream at a tailgate...BUT we eat ice cream almost every night watching football games in the fall. Doesn't that count?
Don't you want one of everything?!?

Christmas List

2010-08-05T21:01:00.005-04:00

Christmas Option

Clemson Option
I found these two items today while I was in Clemson and wanted to buy them so bad, but instead I'll add them to my wish list. Although by the time Christmas gets here, I'm sure all I will ask for is diapers and babysitting. Check out all the art by Pluff Mudd Designs.
I can't save and post a picture of the 2nd adorable thing I saw today. Click HERE to see the plate I like. Of course, you will need to scroll down to find the Clemson one.
How adorable are these??

Free

2010-08-05T19:03:00.002-04:00

This is the one I just ordered.

This week (August 1st - 7th) is World Breastfeeding Week and to show support for breastfeeding, Uddercovers.com is running a promotion where you can get any of their nursing covers FREE (a $32 value)! Use code BREASTFEEDING at checkout. If you aren't currently nursing, this is your chance to stock up on great baby shower and Holiday gifts and it's a great promo code to pass along to your expecting friends...they will be very thankful! This special runs until Saturday, August 7.

Stockpile

2010-08-04T21:34:00.003-04:00

2 packages of Pampers Swaddlers
2 packages of Pampers wipes
6 packages of Huggies wipes
=12.65
What a deal!!

Baby Lack-Update 6

2010-08-02T20:38:00.002-04:00

Week 25-Head to heels, your baby now measures about 13 1/2 inches. His weight — a pound and a half — isn't much more than an average rutabaga, but he's beginning to exchange his long, lean look for some baby fat. As he does, his wrinkled skin will begin to smooth out and he'll start to look more and more like a newborn. he's also growing more hair — and if you could see it, you'd now be able to discern its color and texture.

Week 24-Your baby's growing steadily, having gained about 4 ounces since last week. That puts him at just over a pound. Since he's almost a foot long (picture an ear of corn), he cuts a pretty lean figure at this point, but his body is filling out proportionally and he'll soon start to plump up. His brain is also growing quickly now, and his taste buds are continuing to develop. His lungs are developing "branches" of the respiratory "tree" as well as cells that produce surfactant, a substance that will help his air sacs inflate once he hits the outside world. His skin is still thin and translucent, but that will start to change soon.

25 Weeks

2010-08-02T20:30:00.001-04:00

24 Weeks

2010-08-02T20:27:00.001-04:00

23 Weeks

2010-08-02T20:23:00.005-04:00

Barefoot and Pregnant

22 Weeks

2010-08-02T20:21:00.002-04:00

I hate posing for "artsy" photos. I'm sure my wedding photographer can agree. Anyway, this is us being cheesy, but it's the only picture I have from week 22.

20 Weeks

2010-08-02T20:18:00.002-04:00

19 Weeks

2010-08-02T20:13:00.003-04:00

19 Weeks

A very productive weekend...

2010-08-01T21:00:00.007-04:00

The weekend we celebrated our 18 month anniversary! We enjoyed a delicious dinner at Soby's on Friday night with my mom as our guest. She came into town for the weekend to help do a few projects around the house (clean utility room, iron, etc.). Aren't moms great?!
While she was here we had plans to purchase the crib, which we did, along with the dresser that we will use as a changing station. Imagine the picture of the crib above just a shade darker, almost black.
After dinner we went to Sears and bought the car seat. We had a change of plans on the orange one posted about earlier :) cause I read in some customer reviews that it doesn't fit in a grocery buggy. I think the one we picked out is still universal enough to be used for boy or girl, which is definitely a consideration with all our purchases since there will be a few sibling on the way.
After dinner we came home and jumped on the computer to try and do a little more baby bedding shopping. I am so indecisive when it comes to things like this. I just can't find the right fabric combination and I'm not creative to pick out stuff on my own. After about an hour on the internet, we looked at the bedding at Pottery Barn and deciced on the madris pattern. This has all the colors I was looking for without being "themey." AND Chris approved! WhooHoo. I have attached pictures of all of the above purchased items.

My favorite commerical

2010-08-01T20:56:00.000-04:00

Click HERE to see.

Baby Lack-Update 5

2010-07-15T20:34:00.002-04:00

Week 23-Turn on the radio and sway to the music. With his sense of movement well developed by now, your baby can feel you dance. And now that he's more than 11 inches long and weighs just over a pound (about as much as a large mango), you may be able to see him squirm underneath your clothes. Blood vessels in his lungs are developing to prepare for breathing, and the sounds that your baby's increasingly keen ears pick up are preparing him for entry into the outside world. Loud noises that become familiar now — such as your dog barking or the roar of the vacuum cleaner — probably won't faze him when he hears them outside the womb. Although I will say that I haven't been dancing much, I'm pretty sure this baby will love him some country music.

Week 22-At 11 inches (the length of a spaghetti squash) and almost 1 pound, your baby is starting to look like a miniature newborn. His lips, eyelids, and eyebrows are becoming more distinct, and he's even developing tiny tooth buds beneath his gums. His eyes have formed, but his irises (the colored part of the eye) still lack pigment. If you could see inside your womb, you'd be able to spot the fine hair (lanugo) that covers his body and the deep wrinkles on his skin, which he'll sport until he adds a padding of fat to fill them in. Inside his belly, his pancreas — essential for the production of some important hormones — is developing steadily.

Our first Craigs List Purchase

2010-07-15T20:19:00.004-04:00

I wish I could remember how Chris and I first heard about this contraption, but I don't. Anyway, this is an alternate to the stroller "travel system." It is compatible with our carseat and is a lightweight alternative. Once the baby is out of the car seat, then we plan to get a nicer version of an umbrella stroller. These are currently priced at BRU for $79.99, but we were browsing through Craigs List and found one listed here in Greenville for $35. We decided to go check it out, why the heck not? It hardly even looked used. This was our first purchase for Baby Lack and first purchase on Craigs List.

We have been trying to save $$$ through this baby process and really be conscious of all the spending that could possibly happen. We have been visiting some consignment stores and thrift stores looking for a dresser and/or changing table and/or baby swings, etc.
Have you had any luck at consignment stores?

Gift for Baby Lack

2010-07-15T20:07:00.002-04:00

Today I had a sweet surprise waiting on me at work in Columbia. The recruiter that covers the other half of the state had brought a cute blue gift bag full of fun boy things including some yummy chocolate. Notice that the actual chocolate inside the candy bar wrapper is gone. She got the chocolate at Sarris and it was delicious. Thanks Kristina for the precious bag of goodies!

We registered!

2010-07-15T19:59:00.003-04:00

On Tuesday night right after Chris got home, we went to Babies 'R Us to register. It only took up about 45 minutes, thankfully. We were in and out! Thankfully one of our sweetest friends met us on Friday and did a quick run-down in the store of must haves, maybes and not necessary items. That was a tremendous help! Thanks Jennifer!

Check out our registry and see if we have left anything off. Yes, we do know two things are missing...1. a stroller: we haven't picked on out. The stroller that goes with our car seat is really cute but the idea of a "travel system" is too much. Too heavy, too much for me to move in and out. We are looking for another option. 2. breastpump stuff: I just don't think it belongs on a registry for all the world to see. As of now, I plan to borrow a pump and buy an accessory package which my mom can go get with me.

Remember to use Greer as the city on the registry, not Greenville. :)

Baby Registry Etiquette

2010-07-10T08:54:00.004-04:00

All of you that know me well know that I am always concerned with the proper way to do something. Well, the time has come to register and I've been curious as to the do's and don'ts of a baby registry. Although the tips are not lots and hard to find any good ones on the internet, I've listed some things below if you have been curious yourself.
Do your research. The vast variety of baby products available in stores can be intimidating for the first-time mom as she begins to pick things out for her baby registry. Before you even go to the store, look online and read reviews of different strollers, bouncers, and any other items you want to include on the registry to help you decide exactly which products you want.
Include plenty of choices within a wide price range. Consider all the people who will want to shop from your baby registry -- your family, friends and co-workers as well as your husband's family, friends and co-workers. You want to be sure there are enough choices in different price ranges. This lets everyone feel as if she can afford to get you something you want.
Be realistic. Putting a $1000 crib on your baby registry is probably not the best idea. Nor is asking for a tricycle. Keep your requested items to reasonably priced items and things your baby will need in her first nine months. Even though you are asking people to buy you gifts, it doesn't mean you should take advantage of the opportunity. Stick to the basics and think about the following categories when picking out items: baby hygiene and diapering needs, baby nursery items, baby safety and health, baby toys, and infant clothes or layette items. Leave personal items for yourself such as nipple cream and hemorrhoid pads off your baby registry.
Don't register at more than two stores. Choosing to do a baby registry at a major retail chain like Target or Walmart allows your friends and family who live far away as well as the ones who live nearby to easily shop for a gift, whether or not they like to shop online. These stores also offer a wide variety of items in a large price range. BabiesRUs is another popular choice for baby registries. If you register at more than two stores, it can be confusing for your shower guests to find a gift. You also risk getting duplicate gifts if you have more than two baby registries. If it is impossible for you to find everything you need at only two stores, consider using a service like MyRegistry, which allows you to add things from any store you want onto one registry.
Remember it's the thought that counts. Realize that not everyone is going to purchase a gift off your baby registry. Some people are going to buy you whatever they want, and that's okay. Be kind and gracious when accepting these gifts, and be grateful for gift receipts if the item is truly something you do not want.

Know any others?

Snapshots from the TV

2010-07-05T16:52:00.000-04:00

These were snapshots taken from friend's phones while we were on TV. So cool!

Baby Lack-Update 4

2010-07-05T16:39:00.003-04:00

Week 21-Your baby now weighs about three-quarters of a pound and is approximately 10 1/2 inches long — the length of a carrot. You may soon feel like he's practicing martial arts as his initial fluttering movements turn into full-fledged kicks and nudges. You may also discover a pattern to his activity as you get to know him better. In other developments, your baby's eyebrows and lids are present now.
I am definitely able to feel Baby Lack kick and sometimes I can even see it. Chris has been able to feel the kicks too. The movement seems to happen when I'm relaxing on the couch or right before bed. Sometimes if I tap back, it will kick back.

Week 20-Your baby weighs about 10 1/2 ounces now. He's also around 6 1/2 inches long from head to bottom and about 10 inches from head to heel — the length of a banana. (For the first 20 weeks, when a baby's legs are curled up against his torso and hard to measure, measurements are taken from the top of his head to his bottom — the "crown to rump" measurement. After 20 weeks, he's measured from head to toe.)
He's swallowing more these days, which is good practice for his digestive system. He's also producing meconium, a black, sticky by-product of digestion. This gooey substance will accumulate in his bowels, and you'll see it in his first soiled diaper (some babies pass meconium in the womb or during delivery).

Week 19-Your baby's sensory development is exploding! His brain is designating specialized areas for smell, taste, hearing, vision, and touch. Some research suggests that he may be able to hear your voice now, so don't be shy about reading aloud, talking to her, or singing a happy tune if the mood strikes you.
Your baby weighs about 8 1/2 ounces and measures 6 inches, head to bottom — about the size of a large heirloom tomato. His arms and legs are in the right proportions to each other and the rest of his body now. His kidneys continue to make urine and the hair on her scalp is sprouting. A waxy protective coating called the vernix caseosa is forming on his skin to prevent it from pickling in the amniotic fluid.
Chris has started singing to the baby now and has brought his guitar down from the mountains to start playing songs. I'm sure Baby Lack will do a little dance.

Week 18-Head to rump, your baby is about 5 1/2 inches long (about the length of a bell pepper) and he weighs almost 7 ounces. He's busy flexing his arms and legs — movements that you'll start noticing more and more in the weeks ahead. His blood vessels are visible through his thin skin, and his ears are now in their final position, although they're still standing out from his head a bit. A protective covering of myelin is beginning to form around his nerves, a process that will continue for a year after he's born. If you're having a girl, her uterus and fallopian tubes are formed and in place. If you're having a boy, his genitals are noticeable now, but he may hide them from you during an ultrasound.

The long wait...

2010-07-05T16:34:00.004-04:00

Waiting for over a week to share the news of what Baby Lack will be, was so hard but we enjoyed having a little secret just to ourselves! We had such a fun time anticipating the reveal and of course reading all the sweet messages on facebook and the texts we received all within just a few minutes of the show airing. I've attached a picture from that morning. Don't you love the tiger paw? Chris had that idea.

What do you think?

2010-07-05T15:58:00.003-04:00

I was so excited Chris was off this weekend. We were busy running errands on Saturday and then had a family reunion on Sunday. In between our errands we ran into BRU just to glance real quick at car seats and strollers. We found our favorite car seat. What do you think?
If you know of anyone that has this car seat and loves it/hates it, please share your comments. and YES, it is orange! Would you have thought any different? :)

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T19:04:00.003-04:00

Me and Dad at the Clemson/Citadel game 2009

Today was a great day with Dad. My parents came up from Columbia to spend the day. We all (minus Chris) went to California Dreaming. I think this is becoming a yearly tradition. After lunch Mom and Dad came back to our house for some banana pudding, naps and to watch the baseball games. Unfortunately the game was on a rain delay. Yes, I'm talking about the S.Carolina vs. Oklahoma game. What? You didn't know we were Oklahoma fans? Today we are! :)

It was a great day with my sweet dad...the man that has such a heart to serve and love others.

Happy Father's Day!

Baby Lack-Update 3

2010-06-20T18:48:00.002-04:00

On Thursday, we had the ultrasound to find out what we are having. The Baby Lack (BL) looks healthy and was pretty active. We were able to see it's precious feet and hands, arms and legs, a frontal view of the face, the spine and a healthy heart. Praise God!
We have been really pleased with the new OB practice that we switched to. This practice is a little bit smaller than the other one (4 doctors vs. 8) and it's much, much closer to the house (within 1.5 miles). I really had been anxious the entire week, not necessarily about finding out the sex, but more so finding out if the baby was growing healthy. I'm sure most pregnant moms experience these concerns, but the ultrasound is the true confirmation that things look good. On Thursday, I got home a little before the appointment and Chris was sleeping since he is currently on night shift. I decided to lay on the sofa for a minute to say a prayer for Baby Lack (and my anxiety) and fell asleep. What in the world was I thinking? There has never been a time in my life that I haven't fallen asleep even within a few seconds of laying down on the sofa. Next thing I knew, Chris was waking me up just minutes before our appointment. Whew-good thing it's so close! Anyway, we made it about 5 minutes late. How could we have gone to NY and not known. ;)
BL currently weighs 10oz. and so far I have gained 4lbs., although that actually feels more like 10. I wore some black maternity pants for the first time this week to work and it felt so nice! I look forward to the weekends much more than before because I can wear a comfortable cotton skirt and be totally comfortable instead of trying to squeeze into my suits, although the belly band has been a big help.

On a side note: Thanks to the friends that tuned into the Today show on Saturday to look for us, but we will be on the 26th.