Alexander Family

Fall Fun-Texas Style!

2011-10-09T19:12:00.000-07:00

Is it really October? I think I am having Kentucky withdrawal! It is at least in the 80's here every day, no horse racing, no tailgating and we are still going to the swimming pool! The trees are palms not trees full of Fall color. BUT we are still having lots of Fall fun. Sidney LOVES pumpkins and get's so excited when she spots one. We have been able to get outside more since it has been cooler (maybe 75!) in the mornings. We found our Halloween costume and took our first trip to the Houston Zoo. We are looking forward to our trip home and our first Halloween here when we return.

Sidney loved the zoo!

Petting the animals was her favorite!

First week of October in Houston. Pretty but very different from KY!

Playing in the backyard. She loves bubbles!

Halloween sneak peak...not so fond of the little piggy...

GO CATS!!!

2011-09-10T04:52:00.000-07:00

First home game today! I can't believe we are not there! Thinking of my boys in blue and wishing so badly I was at Commonwealth. I woke up this morning and had, "My Old Kentucky Home" in my head... here are some pics of a little CATS fan last year.

Sidney's 1st Birthday- 4 months late!

2011-09-06T10:56:00.000-07:00

Sidney's birthday party was at our house in Lexington. It was so emotional because all of our friends and family came not only to celebrate Sidney but to tell us goodbye. We are so blessed by our KY friends and we miss them dearly. In spite of the rainy weather and our very crowded house, we had a blast. Such great memories. Sidney had just started her Elmo obsession so I went with the Elmo theme. I loved her dress! She had just started walking a few weeks before so it was hard to get a good picture!

Elmo dress!

My baby eating her 1st birthday cake

Sidney's fan club-our best friends

Adorable cake from Pattycakes. Not sure what I will do for cakes in Houston!

Favors-bubbles, goldfish and Elmo juice in a bucket

The stickers matched her invites and her thank you cards. I love Grey Ink! I am glad she ships to Houston and now has an Etsy store.

Banner I made of Sidney's pics from each month of her first year

Blind dates and birthday parties

2011-08-28T21:06:00.001-07:00

This weekend we went to a birthday party for Charlotte and Carter. I met Jordan, their Mommy through JR League. We had a blind lunch date about a month ago. I know that sounds funny but we literally had never met before and had only spoken through email. I am so thankful the date went well ;) We have had fun meeting up at the Children's Museum and seeing, "The Help" kid free! I am looking forward to starting JR league together and more play dates. Charlotte turned 1 and Carter turned 3. Sidney had a great time at the party, which was at the Nature Discovery Center. She loved the bunny and of course the lemonade and cupcake! We realized it was her first time drinking lemonade. She slurped it down!

Sweet girls

Sidney moving in on more cupcake!

The girls look thrilled. This was our best attempt with both looking.

Tasty lemonade!

Happy birthday Charlotte and Carter! Thanks for having us.

15 Months

2011-08-25T20:03:00.000-07:00

Now-15 months old!

then- August last year

My baby is so big! She is my little buddy and we have so much fun. She is more active than ever. She loves filling up her purses from anything she can find around the house. She is starting to dance and loves listening to music. She still LOVES books and has an amazing attention span when listening to them. She has taken an interest in her baby dolls but Elmo is still her fav. Her favorite food is now applesauce and grilled cheese sandwich. This month was exciting because we took her to the beach for the first time, which I will post about later.

We went to our new pediatrician for Sidney's 15 month old checkup. I wish I could tell you what the Dr said but I have no clue.I was deafened by Sidney's crying and could not focus on anything! As soon as we walked into the office she started clinging to me, grabbing my hair, holding on for dear life and screaming. It was as if she knew what was coming! She did not calm down until after the shots and blood work. I think she had worn herself out from the tantrum! Daddy was able to come at the end of the appointment and meet the Dr. She was calm by then of course. She never acts up for Daddy! We had a good report and are so thankful for a very healthy baby. She is still in the high percentile for height and low for weight. She is still only 22 pounds! Crazy for a 9 pounder at birth.

reading with Daddy

little grump

looking at her battle wounds

out cold before we pulled out of the parking lot

On a side note I get so excited to see all the Pi Phi stuff at Texas Children's. Every book in the HUGE hospital and all of the doctor's offices was donated by the Houston Alum Club and directly from links to literacy from various chapters. They have these cute little pi phi "book nooks" everywhere. I tried to take a picture of the book nook itself but I was wrestling a cranky toddler.

What's for Dinner?

2011-08-21T21:32:00.001-07:00

I have a confession. I am addicted to the blog "Kelly's Korner ."I love reading it and I especially love her "Show Us Your Life" section. I noticed that she used to have a recipe blog. I clicked on the link and found several great ideas to try. We tried this one last week and it was EASY and TASTY! Thank you Kelly and I wish you were still doing your recipe blog.

Lemon Chicken with Green Beans and New Potatoes

click here for recipe!

Back to School Idea-Gift for Teacher

2011-08-17T13:48:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's time for back to school already! For me this year nothing is changing, which I am very thankful for. Since Sidney has had separation anxiety lately I can't imagine having to leave her at a new place. I do plan to have more of a routine and schedule around our house though. We now have our set activities and are getting some what used to Craig's CRAZY hours. On Tuesday we have Bible Study. It's a group of mom's all with young children. Half of the time we end up just talking and it's great! Sidney goes into the Kingdom Kids Nursery and she is starting to enjoy it and play with the other kids. Wednesday we have our play group. There are about 12 girls and we take turns hosting. So far we are meeting lots of nice people! Thursday we have Song Play, which will be starting next month. It's at church also so Sidney is really starting to recognize some familiar faces. So, that leaves Monday and Friday open. Those days usually turn into pool days or play dates. So with all that business I guess that's why I can't believe it's mid August!

I saw this idea at Keeping Life Creative. Even though my little one is not in school yet, I thought this was adorable. Being a former teacher I would have really appreciated this cute gesture!

First Day of School Survival Kits

2011-08-11T17:53:00.000-07:00

These boots are made for walking

and that's just what they'll do

and one of these days these boots are gonna

walk all over you!

All Aboard!

2011-08-08T20:40:00.000-07:00

We took Sidney to Herman Park for her first train ride! She seemed very excited when she saw the train. Once we got on she was not sure what to think. She started pointing to trees, ducks and of course her favorite, cars! Despite it being 200 degrees she had a blast! Herman Park is right behind the Texas Medical Center aka "Dada's work." The Houston Zoo, Miller Outdoor Theater and several museums are also in the park. In true Texas style, it's huge! It has some very pretty areas. We are looking forward to going back when it cools off.

This to shall pass...

2011-08-04T19:40:00.000-07:00

Paging my happy baby...please come back!

Sidney has been such an easy baby. Until now. I am not sure if it's from being around me and only me lately or just her age. She won't let go of my leg, panics when I leave the room, won't stop crying in the nursery at church AND acts crazy when other children even approach her. After several attempts at church I just wanted to break down and cry. I wanted to give up. I know that's not the answer. I don't know what is but I just have to keep trying. Ugh! So frustrating to see her so sad! I wish there was something I could do to make it better quick!

Paper Coterie

2011-08-02T10:55:00.000-07:00

I am so glad I discovered this site! Right now until August 31 you get a 40.00 credit! Use the code "BEGINANYWHERE." A great way to make easy albums or gifts!

I love the swatch books....

2011-08-01T04:48:00.000-07:00

Two years ago today I married the love of my life.

A sweet baby girl later...

and a journey to a faraway place..

I love you even more than on our wedding day! Happy 2nd anniversary. Can't wait for more memories.

More wedding pics here and the article from Southern Weddings Magazine.

What's for Dinner?

2011-07-25T20:34:00.000-07:00

I have actually enjoyed planning my weekly menu's out ahead of time. I thought it would be tedious but it's MUCH easier than running around trying to figure out what to make at 5. Found this on All Recipes. It was delicious! So easy. Especially if you already have some chicken made. I think it would be good with onions and bacon added. Might try it next time.

Chicken Spaghetti

3 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1 (8 ounce) package spaghetti
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chile peppers
1 pound processed cheese food (eg. Velveeta)
salt and pepper to taste
1 pinch garlic powder

Directions

Boil chicken in a large pot of salted water. When chicken is done, remove from pot, keeping water/broth at a boil. Shred chicken and set aside. Put spaghetti in boiling chicken broth and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente. When done, drain broth.
Return pot with cooked spaghetti to stove, put over low heat. Add shredded chicken, soup, diced tomatoes with chile peppers and cheese. Season with salt, pepper and garlic powder to taste. When cheese is melted, dinner is ready!

Buggy on a Budget

2011-07-19T12:03:00.000-07:00

I really don't like to tell people that I am married to a Dr. I have heard comments such as, "Oh that must be nice to be rich" and "You are lucky you will never have to work again." Ha! Most of the population fails to realize that the average cost of medical school is nearly 200,000 dollars. And, when my husband is finished he will be pushing 40 and spent 15 years in training. This is the first year that I have stayed home. Our reasoning was that we felt it would be the best choice for our daughter and our family. When your husband works 13 hours a day that leaves you with the bills, laundry, cooking, cleaning, house maintenance, childcare, organizing schedules, car maintenance,going through mail and did I mention cooking and cleaning? Shew. So, I had no time to work. And,when you consider the cost of childcare in Houston my teaching salary was not that beneficial.

It is going to be a long hard road but I am determined to save money. My first goal in our family budget is the food bill. The first thing we have done is cut back (nearly cut out) eating out. It is hard but when you do eat out it's more rewarding! The second thing is to plan my meals ahead of time and spend less money each week at the grocery. I am learning that this takes serious time, effort and planning. Especially since I am not familiar with the stores in Houston. My starting point is to keep track of how much something costs at different stores. Then I will know where to go for the cheapest price on commonly bought items. To make it easier I have picked 3 stores that are closest to my house. I am also wondering what a good realistic budget is to feed a family of 3. Does any one have any ideas of a realistic food budget or other tips to save money at the grocery?

Say No to No!

2011-07-15T11:55:00.000-07:00

After teaching preschool for 7 years I already understood the importance of not saying, "No!" Once Sidney was mobile I found myself saying it several times one day. I have since then made a conscious effort to "no saying no" at our house. It is difficult when you see your child about to make a huge mess, hurt themselves or hurt something in the house. I read somewhere that a toddler hears no about 400 times a day. Not only is it negative, but it weakens the meaning of the word. I am trying really hard to use redirection and positive reinforcement and save saying, "no" for emergencies when she is really is in danger. I found 2 helpful articles today and I thought I would share them.

18 Ways to Say No Positively

Mistakes Moms Make

14 months old!

2011-07-13T18:14:00.000-07:00

Sidney is 14 months old today! She is so much fun and has the cutest personality. She is a very happy and active baby. She loves swimming, Elmo, music, taking walks and putting her toys in any hiding spot she can find. She can say, Dada, car, ball, dog, quack quack, mama, hi, circle and is starting to repeat more and more words. She loves to run and walk on her own. Her favorite food right now is banana. Her activities right now are going to the library and checking out books, going to music class and going to see her friends in the wobbly walkers nursery at church. We are going to say goodbye to the bedtime bottle this week... wish us luck! We are a little behind but we are ok with that since the move through us all off a bit. Her 15 month checkup is next month. I am very excited about her new pediatrician. Living near the biggest med center in the world definitely has it's perks!

Here is a picture of me and my little buddy this time last year.

Here is a picture from last week. How fast they change!
Love you baby Sidney!

Howdy from Houston!

2011-07-05T20:58:00.001-07:00

Wow! Things have been busy at the Alexander's... we made it to Houston!

Shew. All the boxes are unpacked! I actually sat down yesterday and took a breath. My first impressions of Houston are:

1. HOT

2. Terrible bugs

3. Flat

4. Not pretty like KY

5. No KY sports here or horses :)

Ok, so those are all negative. But true. On a positive note Houston has:

1. Palm trees

2. Shopping (any store you want)

3. Mexican food

4. Great parks

5. Great museums

We have not gotten settled at all other than getting the house organized. This is mainly because we are living with 1 car. Horrible! Craig started his job last week at Texas Children's Hospital, which is the biggest pediatric hospital in the country. Wow! On his first day we dropped him off. Sidney did not want to wake up and was a grump all day. Then when he was done it was her bedtime so you can imagine how that went. I have let him take the car since then. So, we have been stuck in the house. I mean stuck. Nowhere to go and nothing to do. We can't even venture outside due to the 100 degree temps. So our first priority this weekend is to buy a car!

We have been attending a church that we really like and Sidney is going to start a music class there next week. I have signed up for the JR League transfer class and it starts in August. So I feel like we are taking baby steps to meet some people.

I love being home with her and having more time to help Craig stay organized. It's not an easy job! My goal is to post once a week. Someone make me! I will try my best.

Fall Photo Shoot-Zoombug Photos

2010-12-16T18:41:00.000-08:00

We got our first family pictures made in November. I was so happy with how they turned out. Aseel always does a wonderful job! She also did SKA's 6 month photos. You can see them here along with her other great work! Here are a few pics from the Fall.

Winter Wonderland

2010-12-16T18:26:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's almost Christmas! And, I can't believe how long it's been since I posted. I have gone back to work, which would explain my lack of posting. I wish I was one of those people that truly love their job. I just feel that I have lost all motivation. I love my students and really strive to be a positive influence in their life. But, I miss Sidney every second of every day! We have already had three snow days. My little buddy and I have had a blast! She has experienced cold weather at it's finest with her first snow, temps at under 10 degrees and even a small ice storm. She was not impressed with the snow but will always crack a smile for Daddy! Especially when he throws her in the air..

2010-09-10T14:10:00.000-07:00

BIG

BLUE!

Countdown to Kickoff! GO CATS!

2010-09-03T07:13:00.001-07:00

My Top 5

2010-09-01T18:31:00.001-07:00

I recently bought a new Bobbi Brown Shimmer brick. It is amazing! I had my old one for so long it was in teeny tiny pieces. I wear it everyday and decided it is definitely one of my top 5 beauty products that I could not live without. What are yours? And, has anyone tried the Morrocan Oil hair products? My hair is falling out post baby and I was thinking about giving them a try...

My Top 5

I am ocd about wrinkles. This is my favorite sunscreen and it does not break your face out!
A friend told me that when I became pregnant I had to use baby oil on every square inch of my body to prevent stretch marks. I never had one and it makes your skin super duper soft. I use it still. Everywhere.
Great bronzing powder that I use all over my face. It makes you look naturally tan.
I have used Biosilk for years on my hair AND body! I rub it through my hair before I straighten it and then put the leftover on my body. It is great for feet and hands.
If you have never tried Burt's Bees products then you are missing out. I am super lucky because my sister in law works for them and brings me samples all the time. Any of their radiance products are great. They have radiance night cream, body lotion and lip shimmer and I use them all.

Bluegrass Bites

2010-08-27T06:08:00.000-07:00

Tailgating is soon! Yippee! I found a great wing recipe that I am going to try this year.

KENTUCKY WINGS

3 pounds chicken wings (about 16)

1/2 cup pure maple syrup

1/2 cup whiskey

2 tablespoons butter, melted

Thin orange wedges and pineapple slices as a garnish (optional)

1. In a foil lined 15 x 10x1 lined baking pan arrange the wings in a single layer. Bake at 375 for 20 minutes.

2. For sauce in a slow cooker stir together butter, syrup and whiskey. Add wings, stirring to coat.

3. Cover and cook on low heat setting for 4 hours or on high heat setting for 2 hours.

Here are some photos from 2 seasons ago (I did not tailgate last year because I was to sick and pregnant!) My husband is making his favorite drink "Hammer" he discovered it in college at Two Keys. White Grape Juice +Vodka=hangover. But, he loves it!

This year is bittersweet since it's our last Fall in KY. At least for a while...

2010-08-24T10:39:00.000-07:00

The best

3 months

of my life!

Layers of Lexington-Garden and Gun

2010-08-24T10:20:00.000-07:00

Lexington was featured in the August issue of Garden and Gun.

Fall in KY

2010-08-16T09:57:00.000-07:00

I could not help myself! Had to order these for Sidney for Keeneland and football. I can't wait for them to arrive! Found both at Best Dressed Child. I wanted the UK smocked dress but I had to stop myself!

Houston

2010-08-04T11:39:00.000-07:00

Many of you know ,Craig got accepted into a fellowship program at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston, TX. We are beyond excited for the wonderful opportunity. But, I am a little nervous about the size. Three million people? Really? Deep breath. We are visiting for a week in September and I am looking forward to exploring the city.We are going to meet with a realtor to look at some different areas, go to an Astros game and enjoy some much needed time with each other. I can't wait!

Connor the very hungry caterpillar!

2010-08-04T11:09:00.000-07:00

Sidney went to her first birthday party! Her friend, Connor was turning one. Jennifer threw such a cute party! What a great idea. We had a fun time and got to see lots of friends. I can't wait to throw birthday parties for Sidney. But, I don't want her to grow up!

The cake, cookies and decorations were all "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" themed, which is one of my favorite children's books.

Happy Birthday sweet Connor!

I got to meet Ellie and Lyla!

Sidney and her little buddy, Caroline Herrington

Is he not the cutest thing? Even his outfit has a caterpillar!

My sweet baby Sidney!

2010-06-28T19:19:00.000-07:00

6 weeks old

4 weeks old

2 weeks old

4 days old

Sidney's Birth Day

2010-06-28T08:15:00.001-07:00

As always, way behind on blog posts. Baby Sidney was born on May 13th 2010. This was exactly a week early from her due date.We got to the hospital at 5am to be induced. I was excited, anxious and nervous. I just could not wait to get it over with and have her here! They started the pitocin and the contractions began. Shortly after I got an epidural, which I hated! I am pretty certain that it was done wrong or just did not work. I could feel the contractions but not my legs. Finally after twelve hours of this the Dr decided it was time for a c section. She had not dropped any and they were guessing she was going to be a big baby. I will spare you all the details but the c section was horrible. I could feel them cutting me so they decided to give some kind of drug that makes you have short term memory loss (temporarily.) So I could feel the pain but did not remember it. My husband watched the whole thing. When I finally woke up I did not even know I had the baby. I remember thinking this was not what happens in c sections that I watch on tv! Finally, the next day I was able to be somewhat coherent and hold sweet Sidney. The Dr apologized for the anesthesiologist and so did several hospital administrators. Apparently, my Dr and husband were telling him not to give me the medicine and he did anyway. I am still sad that a day that was supposed to be joyous turned into something I don't even remember. We are so blessed that I made it through ok and even more thankful for a healthy 9 pound baby girl!!!!!!

We got home and about 2 days later I starting feeling like I was going to faint. My already horrible leg swelling had spread to my entire body and was getting worse.I thought it was just normal recovery after a c section. To be safe my husband made me go to the Dr. They did lab work and the next thing I know I was readmitted to the hospital. I cried and cried because I did not know how to take care of a baby if I was going back in the hospital. They told me I had postpartum preeclampsia, which is really rare. My swelling was so bad they were afraid I had blood clots in my legs. Preeclampsia also makes you at risk for a stroke. Luckily none of that happened! I had magnesium for 3 days, was monitored another day and then got to go home. FINALLY! My husband was a saint for taking care of me and the baby. I would have never made it without him! Now 6 weeks later I am feeling fine and baby Sidney is perfect. I am loving every second of mommyhood. This experience has definitely made me a stronger more appreciative person.

Here are a few pics from when she was born. The last one is my favorite (even though I don't remember) it was the first time I got to see Sidney.

Junior League Horse Show Gala!

2010-05-10T18:58:00.000-07:00

3 days to go!

2010-05-10T18:49:00.001-07:00

Photo at 37 weeks!

I am officially the worst blogger ever! I don't know where the time has gone. Today was my last day of work and I am so excited. I am getting induced this Thursday! We check in at 5 am! I can't believe baby Sidney will be here so soon! I plan on posting nursery and baby shower pics soon. Happy belated mother's day to all the mommies! I can't wait to become one this week!

CATS!!!

2010-03-14T12:31:00.000-07:00

Baby Sidney Update

2010-03-03T15:58:00.000-08:00

We went yesterday for an ultrasound. I love seeing that little girl! I was not surprised when they told me she already weighs 3 pounds and 11 ounces. They said she is in the 78th percentile. They are estimating that she will be at least 8 pounds, probably closer to 9. Are they accurate with those things? The placenta previa has totally moved, which is good. The Dr was very concerned with my weight gain and said I had to stop. Ugghhh! I am not eating that bad I promise! It is frustrating but I am glad she looks perfect and healthy! I will try to post the ultrasound picture soon.

I got my first invite to our baby shower so I feel like it's really getting close! I am glad the Spring will be busy so the time will go faster. I don't know how my stomach can stretch any more!

Help! I need a new camera.

2010-02-15T04:58:00.000-08:00

We are in desperate need of a new camera before Sidney arrives. I was going to look today but I am snowed in (again.) Does anyone have any good camera recommendations? I was thinking about the Cannon Rebel? My husband already feels sorry for Sidney because he knows mom is going to take TONS of photos of her! I did find some baby photo shoot tips that I thought were helpful:

-Photographing Babies

-Kodak Tips

Here are some awesome baby photography blogs I found:

-Carrie Sandoval

-Heather Mosher

GO CATS!!!

2010-02-15T04:53:00.000-08:00

Fellowship Updates!

2010-02-10T09:19:00.000-08:00

The interviews are going great and the calls keep coming for more. So far the list of possible places we could live are:

Charleston

Little Rock

St. Louis

Nashville

Columbus

Charlottesville

Cincinnati

Houston

Atlanta

Not bad! Can't wait for the interviews to be over with. Craig is exhausted but it will all be worth it in the end. I am so proud of him.

James Campbell Stack

2010-02-10T09:17:00.001-08:00

Sidney has another little buddy waiting for her! I can't wait to meet baby Campbell. Congrats Matt and Susan!

2 years ago this weekend.. Happy Valentines Day!

2010-02-10T09:12:00.001-08:00

This is what I came home to two years ago on our first Valentine's Day. My husband is not that creative so this was a big accomplishment for him. Looking forward to celebrating our first Valentine's Day as a married couple this weekend. He has been super busy with work and interviews so we are just excited to spend some time together!

Bye bye sweets!

2010-01-30T05:22:00.000-08:00

Well, at least for this week. The funny thing is I NEVER had a sweet tooth until I was pregnant. My glucose test is Thursday and I am not really excited. I have had 2 friends fail and had to go back for 4 hours of bloodwork! I am so not a fan of needles... Wish me luck. I am a little concerned since my Dr thinks I have gained to much weight already. I just can't stop eating! I would love a cinnamon roll right now!!

Online Shopping Coupons

2010-01-30T05:10:00.000-08:00

My friend Megan introduced me to this site. If you buy anything online always check here first. They have great coupons and new ones are put on the site daily. Right now they have free shipping for LL Bean and Victoria's Secret 25% off. Happy shopping!

Benton Glennon Giles

2010-01-24T11:27:00.000-08:00

Welcome baby Benton! Congrats to my good friends, Megan and Bart! He is so precious. I can't wait to see him again and have play dates when Sidney comes.

Baby Bump Photos

2010-01-23T16:35:00.001-08:00

23 weeks

18 weeks

Fellowship Updates!

2010-01-15T15:22:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, we have to leave KY in July 2011. We will be gone for 3 or 4 years and then returning home. Craig applied to 16 places. So far he has interviews in Charleston, SC, Little Rock and St. Louis. He is hoping to do a fellowship in pediatric cardiology. Even though it will be difficult to leave our friends, family and state we love....We are very excited for this new adventure.

He leaves Wednesday for Charleston. I wish I could go with him! He is the best public speaker I know and he will do great in the interview! I am going to slip a quote from one of my favorites, "Oh the Places You Will Go, " in his suitcase.

You have brains in your head.

You have feet in your shoes.

You can steer yourself

any direction you choose.

You're on your own.

And you know what you know.

And YOU are the one who'll decide where to go.

Baby Bags

2010-01-15T14:06:00.000-08:00

I decided that Sidney needed 2 diaper bags. One for me to carry and one to leave at the babysitter's or grandparents house. I can't wait for my black "Gigi" Stork Sak to arrive! I love that it has adjustable straps and lots of compartments. I think it is very stylish and does not look like a typical diaper bag. I wanted something not monogramed that would last through several kids! The canvas tote is from LL Bean. It is their basic bag but now you can choose all the colors! So much more fun than the plain canvas! I thought it turned out really cute.

Nursery Progress

2010-01-15T13:56:00.000-08:00

We have a crib and changing table! So much left to do but we are slowly making progress. I love the crib because it has a drawer underneath for storage. I will post more pictures as the nursery comes together.

Megan and Bart's Shower

2009-12-18T12:06:00.001-08:00

I am so excited for baby Benton to arrive in January! It is wonderful to have so many best friends pregnant at the same time!
Look at the adorable cookies from our favorite cookie lady, Vicky Johnson Nunnelley. She makes the cutest cookies, cakes and cupcakes out of her home.
The shower was in November and we had a blast. None of the men are pictured because they were watching the UK football game, which was a win in overtime!

I love you Bart, Megan and Benton! Sidney is so lucky because she will have so many little buddies already!

Sidney Kathryn's Bedding

2009-12-11T20:37:00.001-08:00

I am so excited! I found the perfect bedding. I love all the colors. I wanted something very traditional and not to busy. I am going to bring out the pink and green. I just need a bed skirt and curtains. I got the bumper and my mother in law got me the quilt. I am in desperate need of a new camera but I got a few pictures. You can see the colors better here. It is Sferra Baby ABC Sampler.

Tickled Pink!

2009-12-10T12:09:00.000-08:00

I am so excited! We are having a little girl! We had her name already picked out, Sidney Kathryn Alexander. It was such a special day to have our family with us when we found out. It was even more special because it was my husband, Craig's birthday. A little girl will be so much fun!

Our baby...on the way!

2009-11-23T15:58:00.001-08:00

On September 12th I was at my parents house in Owensboro. That day we had my Poppy's funeral. Craig had to go back to Lexington after and I spent the night at mom and dad's. I woke up in the middle of the night feeling really strange. The next day I was so dizzy that I could not see. I felt feverish and VERY sick. Mom, Dad and Evan took me to the ER. Everything was kind of a blur. The Dr. came in the room and said I was 4 weeks pregnant. I could not believe it! We were all in shock! But, very excited! I started feeling completely better around 14 weeks. Here are some pictures of me with baby Alexander at 16 weeks. Tuesday we find out if it's a boy or girl. I think boy and Craig thinks girl. We don't care but I am so excited to find out! Take my poll on the right!

Our "Mini Moon"

2009-11-23T15:40:00.000-08:00

We decided last minute to take a quick trip to Florida the day after the wedding. Craig only had 1 week off and school started shortly after. We had the best time ever! It was perfect and SO relaxing! Even though we called it our "mini-moon" it was the best trip ever! We planned to go on a "real" honeymoon as Craig calls it in January. Our plans got scratched... see next post!

Our Wedding

2009-11-23T14:41:00.000-08:00

Our wedding was far above and beyond anything I had ever imagined! I will never forget that day, all the special people that were there and marrying the man of my dreams! It was truly Kentucky and everything was perfect! Here are just a few of our pictures from our photographer, Josh Merideth of Bella Grace Studios.

Our wedding was featured on Southern Weddings Magazine Blog!

Part 1

Part 2