The Lones Family

Summer Lovin'

2010-05-17T06:38:00.003-05:00

Yesterday marked a week on the road for us. We left early Sunday morning to make our twice a year trip South and arrived at Pops and Lulu's house Monday evening. We left the next morning for Orange Beach and spent the rest of the beach wrestling kids in the sand and water. Billy and I enjoyed a date night when we ate at a VERY old favorite of ours, Doc's Seafood Shack. After supper, we went to Cobalt Restaurant for dessert. It was fun night of good eats! We enjoyed a couple of other great restaurants that you should try if you ever visit the gulf coast... The Shrimp Basket (there are multiple locations and the whole family enjoyed the variety of foods we tried) and Tacky Jack's for breakfast (pancakes that hang over your plate). Obviously, I enjoy the dining part of our vacations! :)

Cooper continued to love the beach (like last year)... the sand, the water, everything. Calleigh warmed up to the soft sand, but never had any trouble with the hard sand next to the water. It was an experience that we will remember for years to come. With us being down there in early May, we didn't have any trouble with crowded beaches or party-ers. It truly was a family (and family-friendly) vacation. Hopefully next time we go, the kids will either be finished with daily naps or they will at least be taking their naps at the same time. It felt like we were spending a lot of time in the condo waiting on one of the kids to wake up. :)

One of my favorite (non-eating) memories is the time we spent at the indoor pool with ALL of the family swimming and playing. My second favorite is the nights on the beach "crab hunting" with Cooper. He was a RIOT! He would chase the crabs (with NO fear) across the sand and try to capture them with his net. Too bad it was so dark... the pictures or film would have been priceless!

Above are a few pictures from the first night. More pictures will be posted soon!

Birthdays are for remembering...

2010-05-01T22:42:00.002-05:00

"I'm ONE!"

Today is Calleigh's 1st birthday and we have had a wonderful day. We had a small celebration for our sweet baby girl centered around the Kentucky Derby. We had traditional derby foods (Cucumber sandwiches, Chocolate Derby Pie, and lemonade) and dressed to impress. The ladies wore hats and the guys wore their hats and dressy clothes. We had a wonderful time and Calleigh got some great gifts, but most of all she loved the attention.

I found myself reflecting today on what my life looked like a year ago and I remember being surrounded by family and how excited "Pops" was to be here for Calleigh's birth. She was a chunky, beautiful girl who was a week early but a full pound heavier than Cooper. She had the prettiest complexion and she melted my heart right away. I remember Cooper coming in to meet her and how sweet he was to her. I am one blessed woman!

Happy birthday to my precious baby girl! You have completed our family and made us all so happy.

A little out of the ordinary...

2010-04-26T12:21:00.003-05:00

So today's post won't be typical... I want to ask everyone who reads my blog to pray for Tyson Lewis. He is a freshman at YC and he is in Congestive Heart Failure. He is a VERY kind and faithful young man who beat cancer 11 years ago (he lost his leg to it) and unfortunately, they have yet to figure out WHY his heart is SO enlarged and WHY only 20% of it works. Today the doctors on Omaha are taking a biopsy of his heart (a concerning procedure all on it's own) and they hope to get results in a few days. Unfortunately, (as his dad has said) if this doesn't yield results, Tyson's options are limited. Please pray that a cause and solution are found with this procedure. He and his family have already experienced SO much pain already. I can't imagine what this scary time is like for them.

Tonight, I have organized a "Prayer Walk" at a local park for women from the college, church, and community to come and pray. It will likely be a cold night (and maybe even wet), but my understanding is that God listens to prayers no matter what the weather! :) I have encouraged the ladies who attend to bring a flashlight for the obvious reason, but ALSO because I hope that as drivers by see flashlights, they might wonder what is going on. I couldn't help but think of this as an opportunity to be "a light to the world". If you are not in York, PLEASE join us (from afar) and lift this family up at 9pm with us. Psalms 54:2

In Lones family news, we took pictures this weekend at JCPenney's and while we didn't get as many pictures as I would have liked, there are a few good ones. See for yourself (customer's name: CHRISTI LONES). We ended up spending the day in Lincoln running all over town. We got a lot done and found a few bargains.

I realized this morning that in less than a week, Calleigh turns ONE. One week from today, we begin finals at the college. Two weeks from today, we will be arriving in Alabama. CRAZY!!! I just hope we have time for everything.

New tricks...

2010-04-22T22:07:00.002-05:00

Coop has 2 new tricks. The first one I haven't caught on tape yet, but I am sure I will eventually. He is VERY much into mimicking what I do or sometimes even what Calleigh does (especially if it is something naughty that she gets away with). Our newest game is where I mimic him by doing whatever he is doing with his arms (he is VERY expressive with his arms now) by crossing them, putting them at my side, crossing again, and then holding them out. He thinks this is the funniest thing and now he has started trying MAKE me "play this game". He will grab my arms and try to put them across my chest to get us started. Today I looked at him a couple of times only to find him looking at me and mimicking ME in hopes of starting the "game". What a cut up!!!

His other new trick is in this video. He can't quite get the concept of moving the finger back and forth to make the noise, but it is still hysterical!

Calleigh is growing and learning things at an amazing rate as well. Yesterday I got her to sign "more" for me several times (at the appropriate times... eating, of course) and today she REALLY started shaking her head at me, especially when I would ask her about going to bed. Here is a video of it...

Happiness is...

2010-04-19T13:07:00.008-05:00

Happiness is...

a household on the mend
a child absorbing everything and repeating everything :)
a child who not only had gotten his appetite back, has suddenly become interested in new foods again!
one child sleeping so I can spend quality time with the other.
a child who's new favorite toy is "big" legos. (Coop is in his own world when he plays with them and constantly is saying "oh no" or "uh oh")
a husband who is finally able to sleep again
a phone call to my parents
having sunlight lighting up my living room.
remembering all of these things come from the Lord. (James 1:17)

Gratituesday (part deux)

2010-04-13T21:20:00.002-05:00

Friends are something I have never taken for granted, but this week has proven a great time to give thanks for some of the amazing women in York who have been there for me in some way over the past week.

Thank you to Sarah for always, always treating my children as her own and taking them in several times over the past 2 weeks within MINUTES of a panicked phone call from me.
Thank you to Candi for offering several times; neigh, really, really wanting to help us with whatever we needed.
Thank you to Lindsey for taking the kids today for the 3 hours while I covered one of Billy's classes and my own. She had her 2 kids and 3 other kids ALL BY HERSELF and she WANTED to take in my kids. Needless to say, my children loved her and all the kiddos they got to play with (Cooper cried the whole way home begging to go back).
Thank you to Amber and Marti and their love for Cooper and their weekly playdates with Cooper. To top of that long day, they came BACK 2 hours later and kept both kids while I took Billy to supper for his birthday! They are so good to us!
Thank you to Barb for taking my kids on Friday for several hours so I can get some work done and so Billy can get some rest.
Thank you to Gail, Kimberlee, Summer, and Kami for the facebook "stalking" and offers to help. I particularly loved Summer's offer to go get kleenexes for us! Talk about being specific! :)
Thank you to Becky for the offer to help and even bring us dinner, but most especially for fielding nursing questions on her day off because I am too embarrassed to call the clinic AGAIN!!!
Thank you to Cathy for the AMAZING (I'm not kidding) supper that she brought us. YUM! YUM! YUM!
Thank you to the nurses and doctors at the York Medical Clinic who fielded SO many calls (and visits) from me as a concerned wife and mother. Boy... I am so glad they haven't run scared when they saw my number pop up on caller ID.
Thank you to our bosses for being so understanding and willing to work around Billy's "sick time" schedule.
And thank you to all the countless friends who have prayed for Billy or my kids and for those who continue to ask how we are doing. I also appreciate the random visit from Rick yesterday to check on us. My son was so excited to see him because he thought Rick was coming by to take him "bye-bye". Ha!

Since I KNOW this is never a good idea to individually thank people because I will inevitably forget someone, bear with me as I add posts of those names I forgot. I think it is important enough to thank people by name and more importantly to thank GOD for these people by name. Thank you all for being blessings to my life.

Gratituesday (gotta love my man!)

2010-04-13T21:05:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, my beloved husband turned 35. While the day came and left quietly, it marked a momentous day for him. It was at this age that Billy’s father had a heart attack and this has been a point of great concern for Billy for years. He has seen this date as a “looming, dark cloud” and he has been motivated over the last year to get in shape. I am SO proud of him… he has lost 20 pounds!

So here is my Gratituesday subject… Billy. There are so many reasons to love, appreciate, honor, and respect him, so I am going to list a few of those.

Billy is the most amazing chef
Billy LOVES to cook (lucky me!!!)
Billy is a Christian man
Billy is a wonderful provider that put family above a lucrative career

I respect Billy for…

His keen mind
His relationship with his parents
His adoration for our children
His hands on approach with our kids

I appreciate Billy for…

All the times he has gotten up in the middle of the night with a baby
all the meals that he cooks after a long day at work
co-parenting with me
loving and caring about my family like they were his own
loving me, even when I am unlovable
all the things I am forgetting and never giving me a hard time for it J

Over all, I am grateful for Billy being in my life and taking care of me. I am one blessed woman!

And she's down for the count... (and more)

2010-04-12T20:20:00.006-05:00

This weekend afforded me the unusual, but wonderful ability to have a "date night" with my LITTLE man. Since Billy and Calleigh are sick, I took my (mostly well) boy to Songfest and we had a blast. He got to hear a lot of fun music and dance with some of his friends.

Cooper with Amber... one of his favorite "girlfriends"!

So this weekend has led to an interesting Monday. Calleigh hasn't been acting like herself all weekend, so we have treaded lightly with her and made sure to keep her as comfortable as possible. A somewhat low-grade temp exasperated her other symptoms of runny nose and general crankiness, but it wasn't until today that I really began to wonder if something more was the matter. I took her to the clinic and guess what... she has a NASTY ear infection! Ahhh!!!! She is now on antibiotics and a decongestant to hopefully bring this thing under control.

While she and I were in the clinic, I asked the doctor more questions about Billy's pneumonia (that we forgot to ask last week) and I found out that he would likely be dealing with this another 2 weeks (which was a TOTAL shock to him) and that he could relapse if he were not VERY careful. We are both more committed to making sure he gets well and stays well. He taught 2 of his 3 classes today and slept for the 4 hours between those classes. I am "teaching" his 2 classes tomorrow and a wonderful savior/friend is watching the kids for part of the afternoon so Billy can rest a lot.

The only "fun thing" I have let Billy do today is we went out to eat for his 35th birthday just a few blocks from our house. We were gone a whooping hour and a half, but it was nice to be out with just the 2 of us. It has been almost a YEAR since we have been out without kids! Amber and her mom were kind enough to watch the kids and take them to the park.

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention how blessed we are to have such wonderful and caring friends here. I'd be afraid to start listing the friends who have helped and the friends who have offered to help. There is no way I could properly show my gratitude for everything and everybody. The Lord really has taken care of us thru the "angels" here in York. Thank YOU!

Looking forward to tomorrow... it's GRATITUESDAY!!!!

Stay away...

2010-04-09T20:08:00.002-05:00

Oh gosh... I can't begin to say how physically and mentally exhausted I am. But I am well and that is more than I can say for anyone in my household.

Yesterday, Billy was diagnosed with Pneumonia. He hasn't had a fever since around midnight last night and other than a continuing cough, sore throat (when he coughs), and fatigue, he claims to be getting better. Got to love modern medicine!

Cooper is getting better and other than his persistent cough, he is "back to normal". Calleigh, on the other hand, has had a terrible day. She basically whined ALL DAY LONG! She would want to be held and then she would wiggle down and fuss when she got got down. Nothing made her happy except Cooper playing with her (for a little bit and then she would start fussing again). About 3pm, I started getting her ready for her afternoon nap and I changed her diaper, which lead to the need to change her clothes. When I did that, I noticed that she had a little sunburn (at least that is what I think it is) around her neck and the back of her head. It wasn't terrible, in fact it was kind of cute. She now had some color!

It wasn't much longer before I noticed that she seemed to have a raised rash on her back AND she was REALLY scratching at her neck. I laid her down for her nap without her shirt on because I had lotioned her down pretty good. When she woke up an hour later, the rash has spread. It was rapping around her chest and was "crawling" up her face. After a frantic call to the clinic (it was 10 minutes until 5, i.e.- closing time), we were told to try some Benadryl, an oatmeal bath, and aloe lotion. We did all of it before bed and she was still scratching, whining, and running a low-grade temp. We were told to watch her temp and her breathing.

I suppose I am asking for prayers for my family. Seems as if they all could use it!

They are dropping like flies...

2010-04-07T20:33:00.002-05:00

Well, not really, but I know that all of my family is now sick except me. Coop has been sick for more than a week and it got progressively worse, so we took him yesterday to find out that he has a "child's version of bronchitis". He was prescribed a plethora of drugs and hopefully we will see a significant improvement in the next day or so.

Calleigh has been a little bit under the weather for a few days, but not as bad as Cooper. Well, she woke up very early this morning due to a coughing fit and was a pitiful little girl until she finally fell back to sleep. Thankfully she has napped very well all day today and was fine until about 6pm tonight when she started running a fever. We are praying for a restful night for both children.

And now to the last... the "big boy" of the house, Billy. He has been sick since yesterday and he is pretty sure it is just his allergies. Let's hope after tonight's "comfort food" supper and another good night's rest will do the trick for him.

Now for a quick funny story. We put C & C in the tub tonight just to help them get comfortable and to hopefully bring down Calleigh's fever. Well, we have learned that we should always put Cooper on his potty BEFORE we put him in the tub. It seems that he has figured out that there is "more than one way to skin a cat" and is interested in learning how to pee standing up. Anyway, as he stood over the potty he began to make the "hissing" noise similar to well, to someone "peeing". :) Billy and I had a very hard time not laughing our heads off! Ha! Ha!

Pictures from yesterday and today

2010-04-05T21:45:00.002-05:00

One of Calleigh's new outfits from Lulu. I LOVE the leggings! She is so hip!

Cooper discovered that he liked leaves... jumping in them and racking them!

Silly and amazing coincidences...

2010-04-05T21:38:00.003-05:00

Tonight Billy decided to bathe both of the kids as a deterrent... They are both under the weather and were really wanting to go to bed around 6. (We needed them to wait so they would actually sleep thru the night.) As I gathered "post-bath" things, Billy got the kids ready to climb in the tub and in the meantime, he put Calleigh on Coop's potty. I walked in and hurriedly ran for the camera as I thought it was just too cute to not document (her belly poking out so far, not to mention the fact that she was actually sitting on a potty). I snapped my pictures and Billy pulled her off the potty to put her in the tub only to discover that she actually peed! I am sure it was a coincidence, but I am going to start putting her on the potty more often. Who knows... maybe she is a peeing protege! :) Ha!

Day is done... gone the sun...

2010-04-04T23:54:00.003-05:00

Well, the sun has set on another magnificent Sunday, I was greatly blessed by it. We enjoyed a morning of singing and reading scripture at church and then an excellent meal at Kerry's. (Don't be surprised, but we ate too much!)
We made it home in time to QUICKLY take some pictures of the kids and then whisk them off to bed. Neither made a peep for a couple of hours and so Billy and I enjoyed naps too. When we all woke up we headed outdoors for the most beautiful afternoon.

It was somewhere between cool and warm and just perfect for the kids to play outside and for us to take a walk. We had such a nice time that we completely lost track of time and didn't start home until after 6:30. Once we got home, the kids got a snack and a bath and then they were off to bed.

Yesterday was an exciting day for the kids as well. We took them to an Easter Egg hunt at a friend's house.

They both had a fun time and I think Cooper really enjoyed the candy. Had it not been so windy, we probably would have stayed as long as possible because Cooper found their slide! Happy little boy! I am hopeful that this week will be nice enough for us to go to the park and let him slide to his heart is content.

Fridays are the greatest!

2010-04-02T15:11:00.004-05:00

Today is Friday and while nothing major is happening, I am just so happy to see the sun and to have gotten out of the house for a little bit this afternoon. I am looking forward to tomorrow when we take the kids to an Easter Egg hunt. I will take tons of pictures and hopefully some video.

Part of our time out of the house today included a trip to Walmart and a stop by the College. I thought we would just pop our head in on a couple of our friends and ended up spending more time there than we expected... but that was ok! Miss Gayle (and President Eckman) spoiled them with Animal Crackers and Calleigh didn't want to leave her. We then went down the hall to see Miss Jackie and Taylor. I wanted to see Miss Gail (M) too, but we missed her. Coop tried on Taylor's motorcycle helmet (I hope that is the CLOSEST he gets to a motorcycle for a LONG

time) and loved it! I thought he looked like the "Vader" character in the movie "Space Balls".

Too funny. After that visit, we went to Hulitt to pick up a book for me and the kids got to see the McNeeses. Calleigh LOVED Miss Bev and was heartbroken when I took her. It took a few times to leave because she kept lunging for Miss Bev and well, Miss Bev seemed so happy to hold her that she kept taking her! It was so cute!

After naps and a quick supper, we went out to the YC softball game. We only stayed for a little bit since it was rather windy but before we left, we took the kids to the small playground next to the field and both kids loved the slides. Loved them so much that Cooper cried the whole way home!

Calleigh didn't mind going home...

...but Coop wasn't as happy!

I know we all feel amazingly refreshed from the little bit of time in the fresh air and sunshine.

Praise the Lord for springtime!

In "other news"... last night the kids got to open a big box sent for them from their Aunt, Uncle, and Cousins in Alabama. They were birthday gifts for the kids and let me tell you... they were a HIT! They are Leap Frog animals and they play music and are customizable so they will say the kids' names, etc. I had to take them away last night just so they would get ready for bed. Aunt Jennifer also got them "Future President" shirts on one of her recent adventures. I will have them try those on soon for pictures.

Here are a few of the kids last night enjoying an extended Cooper birthday and an early Calleigh birthday...

He's growing up on me... SOB!

2010-03-31T21:10:00.002-05:00

Today was Cooper's 2 year appointment and our last time with our BELOVED Dr. Eberspacher. Dr. E is moving to a new "urgent care" clinic in Lincoln, so we will be losing an amazing doctor. Anyway, Cooper got "A's" all the way around. He weighed 32 pound (90th percentile) and was 37.25" in height (100th percentile) and 20 inches around his head (100th percentile). I was proud! :) He did very good in the doctor's office today, although he was uncharacteristically shy! He usually runs and gives our nurse a hug and talks to everyone. Today I couldn't get him to udder a word and couldn't even get a smile out of him. Strange!

Calleigh enjoyed a wonderful morning with Miss Nicole (she used to keep Cooper when he was first born a couple of hours a week). When Coop and I came to pick her up, she wanted nothing to do with me. I picked her up 3 times and each time she started crying and reaching for Nicole. It melted Nicole's heart and honestly... I loved seeing it as well. Nicole is a wonderful mother to her 2 girls and I am so blessed that she loves my kids (and others) as much as her own.

After I pried Calleigh out of her arms, we went for a Daddy visit. Billy came outside and we walked around campus and enjoyed the BEAUTIFUL day! Calleigh experimented for the first time with walking on grass without shoes on. I think she will like it when she gets used to it. After we got home and ate lunch, both kids rushed to bed for a nap. I ended up having to wake them up so we could go wish a wonderful young man goodbye as he leaves YC for new adventures. After a little cake, the forgave me for interrupting their naps and we walked around for a little while longer. We made our way to Miss Sarah's house (another favorite with my kids) and Calleigh got to swing in her toddler swing and Coop got to jump on her trampoline. Both kids had a wonderful afternoon. We look forward to many more beautiful and fun filled days!

Ahh... Welcome SPRING!!!

Gratituesday (reflections on 2 years)

2010-03-30T07:52:00.004-05:00

Daddy helping take his new truck out the package

Cooper opening the first of 3 "woof woof" movies

Coop's very own Coca-Cola Double Fudge Cake

Blowing out his candle

(thanks Amber for the great pic)

Yesterday was Cooper's birthday. He was born 2 years ago in York General Hospital with minimal fuss and barely a squeak. Things are different now... he is loud, silly, and ever so busy. This weekend of celebration was no different. Saturday we had some friends over to help us celebrate and he loved every minute. He got balls and a "woof woof". He was so thrilled with his toys that he will not let Calleigh play with them. Even if he is playing with another toy, he will carry his new dog around to make sure she doesn't get it. If she goes near any of his balls, he starts yelling "Baby, Baby, Baby, No, No, No!" Luckily, Calleigh doesn't seem to mind right now, but I expect that to change at some point.

Since yesterday was his actual birthday, we decided to save our presents for him to open after a celebratory visit to McDonald's last night. He LOVES opening gifts and with 3 new "woof woof" movies, I'm sure we will have a busy day. Unfortunately, a couple of his other gifts are for the summer, so he will have to wait to play with those and he didn't seem to really understand that.

So now to the gratitude... Cooper was a long awaited gift from the Lord. Billy and I had been married 10 year when we had him and were blessed with great and fun experiences and travels before his birth. When he was born, Billy and my mom were in the room with me and while I don't consider giving birth as a beautiful thing, I do consider it a blessing and I am so glad that 2 of my favorite people were there to witness the birth of yet another favorite... Cooper. Since he was born, I can remember thinking that HE was the very reason I was born! I realize that is a lot of pressure on both him and I, but Coop is a special little boy and I am so excited to see where the Lord leads him.

I pray daily for him to be open to God's plan for him. I also praise the Lord daily for giving us Cooper (and Calleigh, of course). He has brought many smiles & laughs and I expect he will bring many more years of joy. Cooper has taught me how to appreciate the small things in life and how to slow down and enjoy the moment. So I dedicate this Gratituesday to Cooper and the joy and lessons he brings to my life. I love you "Little Bit"!

Sick but smiling...

2010-03-25T12:04:00.003-05:00

Unfortunately, our sweet girl is a little under the weather. We assume it is from her teeth, but I don't suppose you can ever be sure. Anyway, even though Calleigh has been permanently glued to my side (or Billy's at night), NO ONE can make her as happy as her big brother. Yesterday after Cooper's nap, I took Calleigh in his room to get him out of bed. She immediately perked up when she saw him and he refused to get out of bed... he was insisting that I put Calleigh in with him (he was saying "Baby" over and over and patting the bed next to him). Well I did and I had to grab my camera in hopes to capturing some of the resulting happiness.

Gratituesday (inspired by L.C.)

2010-03-23T13:12:00.002-05:00

"Gratituesday" is something that I am inspired to "celebrate" due to Laura Coppinger and her wonderful blog. Each Tuesday she blogs about what she is grateful for and invites others to do the same. I thought I would try to do that today.

I have so many things to be thankful...

I have 2 beautiful children who are healthy and happy.
I have a husband who cares for me, loves me, and is good to me and the kids.
I have a home that is warm, has running water, and electricity.
I have a job that is rewarding, inspiring, and allows me the opportunity to get out of my house for a few hours each week and allows Billy to spend time alone with the kids.
I have food to eat and my husband is an AMAZING cook who LOVES to cook for me.
I have clothes that fit me, cover me, and keep me warm.
I have a vehicle that works well and is safe for my family.

I am perhaps most grateful for my God who provided all these things to me and who has granted me the opportunity to praise Him for this amazing gifts.

I have much more to be grateful for so I will save a few for NEXT "Gratituesday". Thank you Laura for your inspiration and the Christian example you set for all of us ladies in York and all of your blog followers.

I do have a funny story to share that has nothing to do with gratitude. Tonight, my husband's boss came by for a few minutes to see us. Cooper has spent limited time around him and we expected him to just sit with us a watch his Disney show while we caught up. I was completely wrong. As soon as we sat down, Cooper jumped out of my lap and ran up to our visitor and IMMEDIATELY unzipped his pj's "for him". We figured out that he was telling us that he had to potty, but you can imagine after I got over my mortification... I had to laugh. I suppose that means I should add one more thing to be grateful. I am grateful for the funny things my children do that embarrass me and ultimately give me something to laugh about! Thank you Cooper!

Snow during Spring Break and other "sneaky" things...

2010-03-22T08:08:00.004-05:00

So, this past week was Spring Break and it was an amazing week of hanging out and running around. The kids had a WONDERFUL time having both Momma and "Da" (what Cooper calls Billy) here with him. When he would wake up from his nap, he would holler for me, but as soon as I would go in to get him, he would start insisting on Da coming to get him. :) It was a lot of fun for us all. The weather was really good for most of the week and Thursday was the best of all. We had weather in the 60s and it was beautiful. The irony was that the next day was miserable with blowing snow and COLD temperatures. It was a good reminder that God is in control of EVERYTHING!

This weekend Billy made pancakes for breakfast. Pancakes are one of Coop's favorites and Billy tried something new... blueberries. I know that isn't a new concept, but it is to Cooper. Unfortunately, about 6 months ago, he started being very picky about what he eats and we have really struggled with getting him to eat anything besides the same 10 foods. Anyway, Billy added blueberries and it didn't slow him down at all. Cooper ate a ton that morning and has had one the past 2 mornings (we ALWAYS

make enough for leftovers). The 2 pictures to the left are of

Cooper eating the blueberry pancakes and enjoying every bite!

We have also been very pleased that within the last 3 weeks he has started eating bananas & apples and while he has been eating yogurt as much as we let him. He asks for it by name (not that most people could decipher what he is actually saying) and seems to love it. My fingers are staying crossed that he will continue to expand his love of good foods.

Calleigh's dress

2010-03-18T11:36:00.003-05:00

Here is the picture that I promised...

And an old video...

Daddy's girl...

2010-03-17T17:43:00.003-05:00

When we found out that Calleigh was going to be a girl, all of the men at church told Billy she was going to have him wrapped around his finger. I never really bought into this idea... Billy just isn't that kind of guy. This week I might have caught a glimpse of how wrong I could be.

Billy has been watching a dress in Lincoln for at least a month in a half. Every time we go into the store he would look at this dress and talk about how cute it was. I never knew why he liked it but he appreciated it from afar. This week on our trip into Lincoln, he changed his mind. He bought THE dress and I was so tickled that DADDY picked out and purchased a dress for his "princess", I thought I would share a picture of it. When I get a pic of Calleigh in it, I'll share it.

A few more pics from Pops and Lulu's visit

2010-03-15T20:43:00.002-05:00

Swim Lessons with Pops and Lulu

Calleigh was already worn out before we got in the water

Going to the edge to practice jumping off the side

1...2...3...GO!

Coop got to open some of his B'day gifts and both kids loved the keyboard

Another cool toy... thanks Pops and Lulu!

A few pics

2010-03-15T20:35:00.002-05:00

Chillin' with Pops and Lulu

Calleigh LOVES her Lulu and only had eyes for her...

Post bath

Coop wearing Lulu's reading glasses... doesn't he look like Jonathan Lipniki? Ha!

Calleigh and Lulu getting ready for church

Love and Spoilin'

2010-03-10T15:40:00.003-06:00

Today was a sad day. Cooper, Calleigh, and I took my parents (Pops and Lulu) back to the airport for them to return home. As the kids and I went back to the car without them, Cooper began whining and saying "OooOoo" (Lulu) over and over and looking back at the airport. I felt as if I was hurting him and riping him away from them, but he recovered rather quickly as we got in the car and cranked up "101 Dalmatians" on the car DVD player. He didn't even mention them again until we got home and he started looking for and calling for "OooOoo" again. :(

My folks flew in on Friday night and the weekend was wonderful. We hung out and played and let Calleigh reacquaint herself with Pops and Lulu. Cooper, of course, remembers them and RAN down the corridor at the Lincoln airport Friday night as soon as he could see them. Thank goodness for lax security late Friday night. Ha! Sunday was full of Sunday School and worship, playing and more playing. We even got to celebrate my Dad's birthday together for the first time in at least 6 years! We took him out to Kerry's so he could get a Cheeseburger (his favorite meal).

Monday, I was kicked out of the house and given the wonderful opportunity to get a ton of work done in my office. Since we don't have a sitter, I only get "office hours" when Billy is able to come home to stay with the kids. I was able to get SO much work done in preparation of my on-line classes that I will teach this summer. I even went back on Tuesday to work some more. Monday we celebrated Cooper's birthday (he doesn't turn 2 until the 29th) so my parents could give him birthday presents from them. He was SPOILED and he loved it. He completely enjoyed tearing off the paper and seeing what perfectly picked gift they got him. He got a keyboard, a Crayola "Color Me a Song", a new pair of Crocs (my son LOVES shoes... he is SO my child!), and several other thoughtful and fun gifts. All of these gifts were AFTER the suitcase full of new clothes they brought for both kids! Most of the new toys make some sort of noise or music which delights him and Calleigh... not so much Momma and Daddy. HA! We will live and we have loved watching him play with and enjoy all of those toys.

Tuesday we celebrated my birthday. My folks kicked it off with a BANG Monday night by surprising Billy and I with a new TV for our living room (B's birthday is in April). I got some new clothes, so beautiful jewelry, and a new pair of Crocs for me. They are SUPER cute. If you haven't seen high heel Crocs, you should. I will be sporting them all summer long!

My husband and kids spoiled me with items from my favorite band, Better than Ezra. The kids got me a t-shirt and Billy got me 3 CDs. These 3 CDs are significant for the following reasons... #1- the new CDs completed my collection (I now have ALL BTE CDs), #2- I got the re-released version of Closer (my favorite album) that I didn't even know existed, #3- I got a duplicate CD... THAT WAS SIGNED BY THE BAND!!!! Such a cool surprise! Billy also made my favorite meal. He makes the most amazing roast and then he tops it off with rice, gravy, mushrooms, mac and cheese, green beans (only so we could have a veggie, ha!), and deviled eggs. For dessert, I requested key lime pie. YUM! YUM! After all of that gluttony, I was shocked to find that I didn't gain a single ounce this morning! That is truly a birthday miracle! :)

After stuffing ourselves to the max, we took the kids to swim lessons and Pops & Lulu got in with the kids while Billy and I filmed and took pictures. I don't know who had more fun... the kids or the grown up kids!

As I drove home this afternoon with my sleeping kids behind me, I counted my blessings again and 2 of the best ones are my mom and dad. They are wonderful to my kids, my husband, and to me. Being surrounded by my parents, my children, and my fantastic husband made this birthday the best yet! Thank you Lord from whom all blessings flow...

Pictures to be posted soon...

Fingers crossed

2010-02-25T08:43:00.003-06:00

(this is a picture of Coop and I playing with Photo Booth--- he thought it was fun)

Today seems to be much easier for Calleigh so far. She slept thru the night with only one exception, but that required no attention from us. She fell straight back to sleep and slept until 6. This morning has been better with less whining and considerable change in overall attitude. Unfortunately, no teeth have broken thru... makes me wonder if she is having the same issue that Coop did during his teething. He would have teeth start to come in and then the would go back up (I had never heard of it, but I had several moms tell me of similar episodes with their kids). It is certainly not what I want for my little girl, but she is tough and I hope that when they do come in, she gets several at one time.

Cooper is trying out new tricks on me. This morning he walked around with at pretend camera and said "Cheese!" He would say this until I said "Cheese" back. It took me a few times to figure it out (silly Mommy). Also, he has apparently figured out the correlation of Calleigh crying and meaning that she gets attention so when she cries he FAKES CRYING! I can assure you, this is more frustrating than cute, but I did turn my head to laugh the first time.

It is obvious that Calleigh is feeling better because it has been WWE in our house this morning. Calleigh has been "pouncing" on Cooper as he is watching TV. She pulls him to the ground and they wrestle while he hollers for me to come help. Of course, since I am such a carrying mom... I don't! :) I can't help but think it is perfect payback for some of the things he has done to Calleigh.

Oh... in other Cooper news, his potty training continues and we have not "forced" it at all. Yesterday he only had one wet diaper and he has slept thru the night without wetting 3 times in about a week's time. We are continuing to let him lead this effort and we will see how long that takes.

Next week is full of excitement! We start SWIM BABIES on Tuesday with both kids AND Pops and Lulu come to visit on Friday. We are so excited! The kids are going to LOVE the attention that my folks will shower on them and I am sure Coop and Pops will have a large time doing "boy things"!

Grrr... teeth!

2010-02-24T04:47:00.003-06:00

One thing is for sure with babies... when you think you have them "figured out", they change their game plan. Calleigh has started teething again and it has made her less than chipper and it has completely changed her sleeping habits. While she was has previously been taking 2 GOOD naps each day (each anywhere from one and a half to 2 hours) and sleeping thru the night, she is now barely napping (the 2 naps each around 45 minutes). Nights have been pretty frustrating too. She wakes up at 3 and again at 5:30. We had been able to let her go at 3 and then at 5:30 we would give her a bottle and let her fall back to sleep for an hour or so. Not tonight! At 3 she woke up and cried until 4 when we decided it was useless to let her cry or try to pat her back to sleep. Lets just say that it is currently 4:56, I am watching old re-runs of Wings while Calleigh is sitting in the floor playing with a dirty sock and every once in a while looking up at me to make sure I haven't fallen to sleep.

Oh how I wish I could fall asleep! :(

Yuck!

2010-02-19T15:05:00.004-06:00

Last night, Billy indulged my cravings for a Kerry's cheeseburger and we had a family night out. The kids were pretty well behaved and we were in the driveway when "IT" happened. Calleigh sits directly behind me in our SUV and so I always get her out and Billy gets Coop. As I opened Calleigh's door, she began throwing up some kind of orange yuck and kept throwing up. Luckily, we had a big blanket right next to her that I was able to catch a little bit in, but it was really too late. She was covered in it and I had it on my coat, sweater, and jeans. We got her in and immediately in the tub. Apparently, she ate too much because she felt fine and seemed SO happy. Amazingly, everything came clean (got to LOVE Oxyclean powder) and even the carseat is clean now.

Outside of that, we had a really nice evening and the kids went down with great ease. They were both asleep by 8 and we got to enjoy the olympics in peace.

Tomorrow we head to Lincoln (about a 45 minute drive) to pick up Calleigh's 9 month pictures and a toddler bed for Cooper. Should be a BIG day! :)

Just another day...

2010-02-18T15:35:00.002-06:00

I don't really have much to say, but I need to get better about blogging about the little things... they won't seem little later in life.

-Calleigh walks better and better everyday! The best motivation for her to walk is a paci dangling just out of reach.

-Cooper continues to amaze us with his potty training. He goes anywhere from 2 to 5 times a day.

-Cooper's vocabulary continues to increase daily as well. His favorite word right now is "stuck" (or some version of it). He knows how to use it properly and is constantly looking for a reason to use it. :) Billy's favorite word that he says is "Brrrr". If you ask him if it is cold, he immediately says, "Brrrr" with his hands pulled up beside his chest. It is pretty cute.

-2 days ago Cooper "jumped" out of his crib. We are still not sure how he did it, but it has motivated us to finally get him into a toddler bed. I dread the transition that will come with this new bed, but it doesn't matter if it is now or later... we will have to deal with it.

Today we are enjoying a rare day of sunshine and relative "warmth" (the 30's count as warmth, right?) and I am grateful. Too bad it is too messy out from the snow melting to take the kids outside.

Hurry up SPRING TIME!!!!

A video...

2010-02-15T09:00:00.000-06:00

Pictures

2010-02-15T08:55:00.001-06:00

Man oh Man

2010-02-15T08:49:00.002-06:00

Man oh man am I bad at this blogging thing. I think about it and then DON'T do it. Strange, so I will try to catch everyone up.

Calleigh is 9 months now and Cooper is almost 23 months (he will be 2 years old at the end of next month).

Calleigh is taking steps, is waving, is very busy!

Cooper is saying a lot of words and trying to put them together into sentences (even if we don't understand). He got his first big boy haircut (very short on the sides and longer up top) this past weekend and he is trying to potty train himself.

The continue to be best friends and are happiest when the other is around. They certainly make life more rich!

Next month we start swimming lessons for both of them and we hope that Calleigh loves the water and that Cooper remembers how much he loved it last year.

Billy's Criminal Justice program is going very well and is growing. I continue to enjoy teaching a couple of History classes each semester and am looking forward to teaching my first on-line class this summer.

Pictures coming of the kids...

Halloween Costumes...

2009-10-21T19:07:00.004-05:00

Looks like we have costumes for Halloween this year. Cooper is going to be Yoda and Calleigh is going to be a flower. Cooper isn't loving the "hat", but hopefully he will get used to it.

trip, haircuts, and snow... oh my!

2009-10-20T21:05:00.003-05:00

This month has been WONDERFUL! We have had an early snow, a visit from Billy's mom, a first haircut, a first trip to Washington DC, and a baby rolling ALL OVER the place. Last week Calleigh started rolling ALL the way over. She has been rolling "one way" for a while now, but while I was in DC last week she started rolling from one end of the room to the other. She is sitting up better and better now, I can't help but feel like it won't be long before she is crawling. As much as I cherish the growing up "process", it makes me a little sad.

Both kids have LOVED having their Nana here. Since we so rarely get to go to Huntsville, I worried it take a couple of days for Coop to warm up... that was not a problem at all this time. Cooper immediately took to his Nana and Calleigh LOVES her too. Mrs

. Lones has been a great blessing to me (especially) by allowing me to work while she kept the kids. I have been able to get ahead in my class, as well as get prepared for my amazing trip

to Washington DC. She has really endured some early mornings and minimal naps. I think Cooper knows that when Nana is here he doesn't HAVE to nap (even if he needs it). :)

Last week I went to Washington DC for the very first time ever. I went with a group of future teachers and current teachers. We flew into DC at 9:30 on Wednesday morning and hit the ground running! I was able to eat lunch at the Native American Smithsonian, visit the American History Smithsonian, the Supreme Court building, the National Archives building, the Capital building, and the Library of Congress. That night we ate at the INCREDIBLE Ben's Chili Bowl and then visited Chinatown. We then met up with the rest of our group and toured the monuments. We saw the Washington, World War 2, Korean, Vietnam, Lincoln, and then walked to the White House. Just so you know, the White House lights go out at 11pm. :)

The next morning was the highlight of the trip. We went to the Holocaust Memorial Museum and spent the day learning more about the Holocaust and touring the museum. The best part of the day was when we got to hear a Holocaust survivor. She was in Poland living a good life before the Nazis invaded and changed her life forever! What a blessing to hear from a woman who lived thru such difficult circumstances and truly has a positive outlook on life. She certainly put my problems in perspective.

When we returned (at 1am on Friday morning), we went our own ways and then I got up with my family and went to get Cooper's FIRST HAIRCUT. Cooper was a trooper and behaved SO well! I was very proud. He looks a little more grown up, but he is still my baby boy!

REALLY... Snow??

2009-10-10T21:30:00.002-05:00

Well, today it happened. Mark the day, October 10th... it snowed. I am sure that isn't completely unheard of in other parts of the country, but to this Bama girl it is surreal! I wish I had taken a picture of it because there was about half an inch on the ground and a layer of GREEN leaves on top. I couldn't help but wonder if Mother Nature was a little confused.

We didn't let the snow slow us down. This has been homecoming weekend at YC and so we went to the Volleyball game last night (which Coop LOVED and Calleigh hated it... but only because it was so loud) and to Alumni Chapel and the Choir concert this morning. It was nice to see some faces from early in our work here and to hear President Eckman speak this morning AND hear the choir. Both kids were really good for the 2 and a half hours, but were glad to get home.

Tomorrow we go to Omaha to pick up Mrs. Lones and we look forward to a great 2 weeks with her. I leave on Tuesday for my DC trip and I am so excited. Pictures to come...

Cooper's 18 month appointment

2009-10-09T16:34:00.004-05:00

This week included a trip to the Doctor for his 18 month appointment. He is growing and is very healthy. He is 34 inches tall and 28 lbs and 12 ozs. Other than sort-of being on a "meat strike" right now, he is eating great. Calleigh's 6 month appointment will be next month and I am looking forward to adding cereal to her diet. She is chunkier than I remember Cooper being, but otherwise they are the same baby.One funny story, last week I went into Coop's room to find that he had found a pen and had begun to decorate himself. Trust me, I won't wait around to go get Cooper out of bed in the morning. He was so quiet that I didn't know he was awake. I just happened to go in his room b/c we needed to go somewhere and I needed him to get up! Glad I got him when I did. :)

Just another Monday

2009-09-28T16:26:00.003-05:00

Today has been really fruitful for me even if it didn't turn out the way I expected. This morning was supposed to be Cooper's 18 month dr's appointment, but we got a call as we were getting ready to walk out the door that our dr was out sick. Oh well. Cooper had his play date with Amber and the boys and that was fun for him. Right now he is fighting a nap, but he needs it! :)

I got tons of cleaning done and that felt really nice. I would have liked to have done more, but hopefully I will have time to do that before Billy's "Gangs" class comes to eat Saturday night and CERTAINLY before Billy's mom comes in 2 weeks.

Here are a couple of new pics...

New to us...

2009-09-08T22:13:00.003-05:00

Today was a busy day. I teach on Tuesdays and Thursdays and each Tuesday afternoon Billy comes home and keeps the kids while I go to my office on campus and work uninterrupted for a few hours. Anyway, today was shot day for Calleigh and Billy took both kids to the shot clinic for me. This is a HUGE favor for me as I HATE to see the kids get "hurt". The shots went ok (according to Billy) and when they got home Calleigh sacked out for a while. Apparently, the shots help babies sleep.

So here are the new things...

#1- I have taught Cooper how to sign "Please" and he used it properly today.

This afternoon, he got my attention and signed "please". I said, "please, what?" Cooper grabbed his diaper. I asked him, "Coop, do you need me to change your diaper?" He walked over to the couch and grabbed the wipes and handed them to me. I couldn't help but be impressed... he WAS dirty. Smart boy!

#2- Cooper has been working hard on pointing out his nose (and your nose and my nose). So, I have been trying to get him to do other things on his face and have gotten no where. Well, today it suddenly clicked. He pointed to his nose. I said, "Where is my nose?" He pointed to my nose. I said, "Where is your mouth?" He pointed to his mouth. I asked, "Where is my mouth?" He pointed to my mouth. "Coop, where are your ears?" and he pointed. "Coop, where are Mommy's teeth?" he opened my lips and pointed to my teeth. HOW FUNNY! :)

#3- While I was at work this afternoon, Billy was trying to cook and Calleigh was fussing in her bouncy seat. Billy asked Cooper if he wanted to give Calleigh her bottle. He said, "Yes" and took the bottle from Billy and walked over to Calleigh and sat down. Now, he didn't put in her mouth, but he certainly did understand and respond appropriately.

Oh... and a warning. :) Cooper is interested in bellies. It is my fault for tickling and blowing on his tummy all the time and then getting him to do it to me. Anyway, if you see him and he suddenly pulls up your shirt... you know why. :)

Hugs to everyone!

Busy Week

2009-09-06T23:50:00.003-05:00

This has been a busy week and I am excited to be able to enjoy a long weekend with my husband at home.

This week Calleigh turned 4 months. It seems impossible, but true. She is the happiest baby

ever (even more so than Coop, I think) and truly a joy. Coop loves her and they are just the sweetest things in the morning. I never know who will get up first, but when the other rises, they are SO excited to see each other. Calleigh smiles bigger for

Cooper than she does for anyone

else. I pray that they will be best friends always.

Besides the "birthday" we had a busy week full of somewhat needy babies. Both of them are teething and it is certainly a struggle to help them manage the pain. We are blessed that we only know Cooper is teething by his diapers and the way he keeps massaging his gums with his tongue. He looks like a MONKEY! :) Calleigh has been drooling profusely and not eating as well with her teeth coming in. She also seems to want to be held more... which isn't TERRIBLE, I guess. Ha!

This week, Cooper has learned a couple of new tricks. The most annoying one is "chucking the paci". He has learned that if he throws his paci, we will let him down so he can go get it. He does this in church, in Walmart and at home when we are rocking him to sleep. It can be kind of funny sometimes, but annoying MOST of the time! He doesn't seem to understand how grossed out I am by the floors in Walmart!!!! Another trick happens everytime we walk outside. He turns right (facing our neighbors, the Vavra's) and starts barking. Then he stops long enough to turn left and start waving. It doesn't matter if there is a dog outside or if the Pettagroves (our neighbors to the left) are at home our outside. He will do this every time. Silly kid.

He has started going on Monday's to hang out with one of our students and her cousin (she babysits). Cooper LOVES this time with Amber and Thomas. They eat lunch together then play. Coop always comes home tired and dirty. Makes me SO happy. We knew he liked Amber when he saw her in chapel and came and got his bag and grabbed her hand and began to lead her away. Now, each Sunday he wants to sit with her. It is terribly cute!

Speaking of Church, Billy told me that Cooper ran right up to Mrs. Eckman (YC's First Lady) when we walked in and jumped in her arms. I laughed thinking that he sure likes to make friends in high places, but Billy pointed out that Mrs. Eckman resembles my mom (Lulu) sort-of and he wonders if Cooper runs to her b/c he thinks he is seeing Lulu! Who knows, but I hope that makes Lulu want to come back to Nebraska soon!

In other news, Billy and I are enjoying our new semester and our students. Please pray for one of our favorites... Sonia. She has cancer and is truly the sweetest being on earth (next to her amazing boyfriend). She has stage 2 lymphoma and just finished her last round of treatment. She used to work for me in the Admissions Office and is in one of Billy's classes this semester. She embodies the meaning of "Christian Woman" and I would really like for her to get better soon.

Catching up!

2009-08-30T13:14:00.009-05:00

Ok, so I have not been keeping up with my blog and SO much has happened since February so I will try to sum up...March was a sad and happy month. During

our Spring Break, my grandfather (Papa Spivey)

passed after several months of deterioration. I count it a great blessing that I was able to see him in January and that he was having a GREAT day when I visited. I will miss him forever. Cooper turned 1 on March 29th and we did a joint party with his buddy Brody a week later. They loved the red cakes!

April was an exciting month... Pops retired and within a couple of weeks, he and Lulu were in Nebraska helping us get ready for Calleigh's birth. Between my contractions and Cooper's need for constant hands-on attention, they were a God send. Not to mention the countless friends who became second mothers to Cooper during the day, the friends who cooked for us just because they loved us, and my husband who was Dad AND Mom each night while he was trying to finish up the semester and prepare for exams. I have so many heroes! :)

Back to my parents... I wish I had taken a picture of Dad's truck, it was packed to the max and then when they unloaded... let's just say WOW! It was work of art how it packed like an an architect and they were prepared for any possible scenario! I can't begin to express how amazing it was. The day they arrived, Coop was at Miss Carol's so we went to pick him up. He was SO excited to see Pops and Lulu! Just in the first few days of them being here, he learned how to give kisses and blow kisses. SWEET KISSES!

Well, May 1st was the day Calleigh Grace made her appearance. Thank God, Dr. Eberspacher had sympathy for me and my month long contractions and induced me a week early. She was evidentally ready to come b/c I was having contractions so close

together as we entered the hospital that they almost couldn't give me the induction drugs. She was a big girl too... 8 lbs and 7.7 ozs.

Had we waited another week, she would have been over 9 lbs!!! :) She was born healthy and beautiful!

Mom and Dad left a week later and school was over and now we began trying to figure out what life as a family of four was like! Honestly, I can't imagine what life would be like without our 2 munchkins!

June was another happy and sad month. We went to Alabama to spend time with the Spivey and Lones families and had a blast. Everyone loved meeting Calleigh and getting to see how big Cooper had gotten. We were able to eat supper with some of our dear friends in Montgomery and go to church with our former congregation in Huntsville. In our first week we went

to Orange Beach and it was the best vacation EVER. Cooper LOVED the beach, the sand,

the swimming, and the time with his Uncle Drew and Pops and Lulu. Life was great. Shortly after we returned to Montgomery,

we headed up to Huntsville to spend quality time with Billy's family. We ate well and lived well while we were there. We were blessed enough to have a morning to go over to Decatur and visit with my Nana and several of my Spivey cousins and their families. It was a great morning and in retrospect, I wish we could have had more time to spend with everyone. Sadly, it was the last time we saw my Aunt Cathy. I won't get into details, but within a week Aunt Cathy passed and we all were devistated and more sad than I can express (I still am). I was so blessed to be able to stay and visit with Cathy's boys and their families during her time in the hospital (thank you Billy for working this out for me and thank you to my folks and Billy's folks for taking care of me and the kids during this time). Anyway, a HUGE plus was that I got to know Jackie (my cousin Tim's wife) for the first time. She is such a blessing to my life.

July was a busy month. Billy started working in corn fields and was gone from EARLY in the morning to late afternoon 7 days a week for 3 weeks. I have SO much respect for single moms! My kids were good during this time, but it was interesting wrestling them without much help. :) We wrapped up the month with VBS at church and it was a lot of fun.

August has been a busy and good month. We started it out with bible camp in the Black Hills of SD. We went with the Booths and the Eldreds and had a wonderful and blessed week. We are already recruiting other families to go with us next year! The camp was beautiful and we were able to see amazing and interesting sights. On top of all of this, Cooper caught his first fish! He also had the opportunity to sleep with Billy and I each night and I think he LOVED it! Other than the constant wallowing and tossing and turning, we loved it too. Of course, we were ready to get home and get back to our normal sleeping arrangements. :)

When we got home, within a week Pops and Lulu were in Nebraska and my kiddos were loving their lives! We played and enjoyed our quality time with them and were sad to see them go since that meant no more spoiling until Nana (Lones) comes to visit in October AND it marked the beginning of a new school year.

Classes began last Monday and we are very pleased with our classes. Billy's Criminal Justice program has grown from 5 majors to 16 majors! I am SO proud. He is working hard and I promise to keep everyone posted on how the semester goes for us.

Sorry for the delayed blog, but much appreciation for the love and prayers. Blog ya again soon!

Water Baby!!!

2009-02-02T20:40:00.003-06:00

Cooper began swim lessons tonight and we had a great time. It took a few moments for Coop to get used to the water (it was a little cooler than I expected), but afterwards he was downright comfy! We practiced kicking while on his tummy and on his back. He practiced splashing with his hands and floating on his back. I was very proud of him. Daddy videotaped and took pictures, so here are some of the shots...

New tricks!

2009-01-27T16:27:00.004-06:00

This weekend was full of firsts for Cooper. He went to his first funeral. It was a lovely service that was for a gentleman who lived a long and very amazing life. During that funeral, he spent most of his time with Sarah (Brody's mom) because apparently she has become his new favorite person. Whenever he sees her, he lunges for her. Luckily, Brody hasn't minded too much yet. :) Anyway, as he sat on Sarah's lap, he began feeding himself for the FIRST TIME! He has never done that before. He will let us feed him, but he has never taken solid food in his hand and put it in his mouth. I was so proud and yet so jealous. I guess that will not be the last time he does something for someone else that he won't do for us.

Here is a picture of him in his suit from the funeral & one of him and me when he was wearing his ROLL TIDE outfit. He is a BIG fan! :)

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T08:26:00.012-06:00

Well, as Billy, Coop, and I wind down our trip in Alabama, I find myself grateful for a WONDERFUL Christmas. We left Nebraska 2 weeks ago today and Cooper was a pretty good traveler. We stopped from time to time just to let him out to stretch those legs and be free of the car seat. Otherwise, he napped and watched tons of Blues Clues and Baby Einstein (thanks Nicole and Sarah).

When we arrived in Alabama, we spent the night in Huntsville with Billy's parents and Cooper's 2 youngest cousins. Cooper had so much fun that he didn't go to sleep until 11pm that night.

We then went to Decatur to see Pops, Lulu, Uncle Drew and all of Pops' family for the annual Spivey family Christmas. The brunch was great and the company was even better. Cooper

got a couple of toys and a precious outfit.

We left Decatur to head to Montgomery to spend a week at Pops and Lulu's house. We had a wonderful week of being spoiled. Cooper even learned some new tricks. He started standing up on his own (without having to pull up on a wall or table or something). He also started to eat us out of house and home! He ate "3 squares" a day and then some. He is still taking his bottle some, but WOW!

He has a healthy appetite. :) He has even created a silly face that he and Lulu did all week. At first I thought it looked like he was trying to "fake cry", but now I think it was just a silly face where he wrinkles up his nose and closes his eyes tight. (the picture is the closest thing I have of "the face")

Coop got some great gifts on Christmas morning. He got some COOL converse shoes from his Uncle Drew, a red wagon that he LOVES (boy, won't he be disappointed when we get back to snowy

Nebraska and he can't ride it for months),

and a rocking horse that was given to me from my grandparents on my FIRST Christmas.

Of course, this doesn't even mention the countless clothes, books, and other toys that were showered on him. He was even in a "giving spirit" as he gave me a watch and gave Daddy a video that they 2 of them enjoy

watching. He also helped deliver Daddy's last gift from Lulu and Pops... a cool black guitar. He was so cute helping Pops pull that gig bag. It was a great moment. After

we finished opening presents, we ate a great lunch then went and visited my grandmother. She loved seeing Cooper and Cooper enjoyed visiting her and the other residences in her home. He is quite a ham. :)

After a wonderful week with my family, we left after breakfast on Friday morning to join Billy's family. When we arrived in Huntsville, we were greeted by Cooper's grandma and all his cousins and his aunt and uncle. We went to lunch at our favorite place from our time in Huntsville, the Po' Boy Factory. After a yummy cajun lunch we came back to do Christmas again. Again,

Cooper was spoiled rotten with great toys that make fun noises. He even got a fire engine that he can ride around from Uncle Kenneth, Aunt Jennifer, Caleb, Gabrielle, and Caden. He had a

great time opening gifts and listening to his cousins enjoy all their great gifts. They are fun playmates and he has enjoyed all his time with them. (pictures are of Cooper at the Lones Christmas)

While we have been in Huntsville, we have stayed busy and really had a great time. Last night was New Years Eve and Cooper got to have one more spend-the-night party with Caden and Gabrielle. They had tons of fun and wore each other out. Hopefully this summer, that "wearing out" will translate into Cooper falling to sleep very quickly like the other 2. :) Coop just takes a while longer to wind down. Cooper even learned a new trick from Grandma... he can now sit on the couch and then flip over to slide off! :)

Today we are getting ready to head to Uncle Eddie's house for the annual Lones family Christmas party. There are tons of kids and adults and even more food. We are looking forward to a great way to end our time in Alabama. When we get home tonight, Billy and I

have to get serious about packing... not our favorite part of traveling.

Well, one more picture just for laughs. Last night was bath night for Cooper and he and Daddy took some funny pictures.

Our love to you all and I hope you guys had as wonderful of a holiday season as we did. Happy New Year!

It's a Girl! AND It's Coop's 9 month birthday!

2008-12-29T09:58:00.002-06:00

I realized this morning that I hadn't updated the blog to tell everyone that we found out 2 weeks ago today that we are having a little girl. We don't have any names yet, so please feel free to share any great ideas! :)

Today is Cooper's 9 month birthday and he gets bigger, stronger, and faster everyday. We are so proud of our BIG boy who weighed 24 lbs last week. Wow!

Pictures

2008-12-14T13:19:00.003-06:00

I voted!! (11.4.08)

Coop and Brody in their matching Christmas PJs

Meeting Pops, Lulu, and Uncle Drew in the airport (11.23.08)

Coop and Daddy talking over the days plans.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-29T12:09:00.004-06:00

Well, this has been a busy month and I am sorry to have not updated the blog in a while. First things first, Happy Thanksgiving! We had a great holiday as my parents and brother joined us this year. Coop cuddling up with Pops and Lulu before bedtime.Pops and Coop getting ready to go out.Coop and Uncle Drew dressed up for church.Nite-nite time with Lulu.

While they were here, we enjoyed good food (thanks to Chef Billy) and a lot of good memories. Also, Thursday night, Coop took his first steps. He has been crawling and pulling up on EVERYTHING for several weeks now, so we have known it was coming. Unfortunately, Momma wasn't quite ready for it. My little boy is growing up faster than I want.

Today is his 8 month birthday and we plan on spending it watching the Alabama/Auburn game (Roll Tide Roll) and eating some yummy turkey-bone gumbo with some friends.

We hope everyone has had a wonderful holiday weekend. We are grateful for our friends and family who could not be with us this year. We look forward to seeing you all soon!

(more pictures to be posted soon)

Big News!

2008-10-20T20:18:00.002-05:00

Well, it is official, Cooper will be a big brother in May. Billy and I went to the doctor on Wednesday and heard the heartbeat and it was strong and healthy. I would like to say Cooper is excited, but he is clueless... although Billy and I are elated.

In other news, this weekend was a busy one. We discovered on Thursday morning that Cooper had a sinus infection. While he was a sad little boy, the antibiotics and decongestant worked well and he is much better now. Now if we can just get him back on a good sleeping schedule...

6 months old!!!

2008-10-07T15:03:00.004-05:00

So, I should have blogged last week to announce that it was Coop's 6 month birthday on Monday, but I was sick. Sorry to my little guy who I am SO proud of, but boy have these 6 months have flown by. Yesterday, we had his 6 month shots and he took them like a trooper. He cried when the inserted the needle and by the time we stood up, he was fine. :) After that we went to a Junior High Football game to watch our friend, Ken, coach (Ken is Brody's daddy). I am posting some pictures of Coop with his good buddy Brody, who turns 6 months next week.

Don't they look like they are wrestling?!?

Best buddies, Cooper and Brody

Sitting, propping, and rocking, OH MY!

2008-09-28T21:22:00.004-05:00

Sitting up last weekend

Sitting up like a big boy in his bed

(wearing Aunt Jen's "Future Harvard Freshman" outfit)

So, I have figured out that I am not really good at this blog thing. I mean to blog ALL THE TIME, but never take the time to do it. I thought I would do it real quick tonight to update everyone on Cooper's growth into a "big boy". Last weekend, he began to sit up on his own and within 24 hours he was completely sitting on his own and playing as he sat. It is so fun to see and he really, really enjoys it. Also, he began getting up on all 4's and "standing" there. Yesterday he started rocking AND scooting backwards. Oh my... my sweet baby is growing up. OH and he finally got his first tooth. So much in such a short amount of time. No wonder I am tired all the time!!!

(Just another cute one that I thought I would share...)

5 months and counting!!!

2008-09-01T16:58:00.004-05:00

First day of classes bring convocation and Billy gets to march into chapel in his regalia!

Clara even came to see him.

Coop was looked SO cool walking to campus!

How cute is this guy???

Happy 5 month birthday!

Last week was a big week. Billy and I started teaching at the college and Cooper turned 5 months.

Good Morning from Cooper

2008-09-01T16:50:00.003-05:00

My sweet angel is a morning baby and he is so sweet. I thought I would share this picture...

Yummy... Squash!

2008-08-19T16:19:00.003-05:00

We have started feeding Cooper cereal and baby food and he has really taken to them. I thought I would share some pictures.

Little buddies

2008-08-06T15:06:00.004-05:00

I keep forgetting to add new pictures of Cooper and his buddy Brody. Since Brody is at Bible Camp this week with his family, I thought I would post them now. :) Something to help Coop and I as we miss our friends. Ha!

New food

2008-08-06T14:52:00.003-05:00

Monday was Cooper's 4 month Doctor's appointment which brought some tears (4 month shots) and some new food options. We started Cooper on rice cereal that night and he seemed to like it. You can see for yourself in the pictures. :)

BIG Day!!!

2008-07-29T22:20:00.005-05:00

Today was Cooper's 4 month birthday and it marked 2 big milestones. First, this afternoon Coop put his big toe in his mouth. :) We knew it was coming... he has been playing with his feet for weeks, so we got a big laugh out of his new found flexibility. Second, today he rolled over for the first time from his back to his tummy. I nearly missed it, but the motion of his roll caught my eye and so I got to see him go from his side to his tummy. He was QUICK!!! Unfortunately, Billy was outside stripping the porch (we are doing some home improvement), but we know it will happen again. The "naked" picture is just after he rolled. He knew I was SO proud of him and he smiled for about 20 minutes straight. He was pretty proud of himself. Happy Birthday little man!!!!

Too Long!

2008-07-26T14:31:00.004-05:00

Well, we returned from our Southern adventure on Friday, July 11th. The trip was wonderful and very relaxing. We had a great time showing off our sweet boy and seeing old friends and family. We really needed more time because we didn't get to see everyone we wanted to. The past 2 weeks have been jam packed for me as I have finished my summer course (submitted my final exam yesterday, yea!). It was a hard one and very intense (most classes last 4 months, but this one was only 2), but I am glad I did it. I think I learned a lot. The next few weeks will be about Billy and I working on our fall class schedule (I did brag on the new Professor of Criminal Justice, Billy M. Lones, JD, right?!) and spending as much time with Cooper as possible. Right now we are all on the front porch and Billy is scraping the porch floor so we can repaint it next weekend. It looks like hard work! :)Well, here are a few pictures (Grandparents, great Grandparents, cousins, and Uncle Drew)...

Happy Baby!

2008-07-04T09:44:00.002-05:00

Well, we arrived Wednesday night to Montgomery and Coop has been in "hog heaven" ever since. Lulu and Pops are loving on him and having a great time. Yesterday, we went to Alfa (Pop's office) and met all of his co-workers and then went to Faulkner so Coop could see where Mom and Dad went to school. We had a GREAT day! At the end of the day, Lulu and Pops gave Cooper a bath and they had a great time. Check out the pictures...

Traveling Shoes!

2008-07-01T19:43:00.005-05:00

Well, we are on the road heading to Alabama and we figured out that this trip brings MANY firsts for Cooper! First time in Iowa, First time in Missouri, First time in Illinois, First time in Kentucky, First time in a Waffle House and Bob Evans, First time in a rest area, First time in a hotel, First time in a king-sized bed... SO many firsts. Let me brag... Coop has been AMAZING! We left this morning at 5am and he only cried for a few minutes this afternoon (and that was because he was fighting sleep). Otherwise, he was a perfect angel! We are looking forward to another great day of travel tomorrow as we complete our trip to Montgomery to see Lulu and Pops, not to mention Uncle Drew. The 2 pictures are of Coop in Metropolis, Illinois and Coop and Billy in Waffle House.

Happy Father's Day

2008-06-16T16:16:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was Billy's first Father's Day as a Daddy and I think he had a good time. He requested that we watch Smokey and the Bandit (parts 1 and 2) and eat pizza and wings. We did it all. Coop even took a long enough nap for Billy to take a nap as well.

After church we snapped a few pictures to share with everyone. We hope you enjoy.

Many thanks to our dads for making our lives so amazingly rich and blessed. We hope to create that legacy with our own child.

Rock and Roll Baby!

2008-06-14T12:02:00.007-05:00

I cannot believe that I have let 2 weeks go by without a post. Cooper and I have stayed busy with me working on a class that is 4 months of material packed into 2 and Coop has been busy GROWING!!! Last week he had his 2 month appointment and he now weighs 12 lbs and 10 ozs! We are so pleased.

Next week leaves 2 weeks until Billy becomes full-time Faculty (he is starting YC's new Criminal Justice department and we are VERY excited) AND we leave to go to Alabama. This will be Cooper's first visit to the "holy land" and we are all very excited!

Here is a picture of Cooper in his new rocker onesie (thanks Sarah), his new "crawler" (thanks Mindy), as well as a new picture with his buddy Brody (they were not happy campers).

Time to catch up!

2008-06-04T22:27:00.005-05:00

So, it has been longer than a week and I am sorry about that. There is a lot to catch everyone up on, so here goes.

Monday was Cooper's 2 month check-up and he is growing like a weed. He is 12 lbs and 10 oz and 22.5 inches. When he was born, he was 7 lbs and 7 oz and 20.5 inches. We are so thrilled with his progress. He got shots and really did well with them. We are so proud. The only bad news was that he is favoring one side of his head so we are working with a Physical Therapist to make sure and round out the flat part on the right side of his head. It is a condition that could have developed while I was pregnant with him or during delivery, but either way, we are working on it.

In other news, I started a new graduate class and it is going to be tough. Luckily, I have Coop around to help me study. Check out the picture I took while I was watching on of my video lectures last week. He was really "talking" up a storm to the professor and I couldn't resist taking a break and snapping this pictures. I even sent it to my professor so he could get a laugh too. :) He said that Coop was probably the smartest baby in our class!

Cooper also got some new clothes from his Grandmother that came to visit and from Sarah (Brody's mom). Here is a picture of him in one of those new outfits.

Sunday news...

2008-05-25T17:54:00.008-05:00

(Wow! 2 posts in one day!)

Today was Baby Dedication Sunday at our church where each new baby was presented with a bible and an elder prayed for them. Here are some pictures..

Also, on Friday, Cooper's Grandma (Lones) flew in to meet him. As we expected, they fell in love immediately.

Saturday night was big for us too. We had a Crawfish boil with a group of friends. We boiled 60 pounds of Crawfish, 10 pounds of shrimp, and fried 3 pounds of Alligator. We had a blast! The guys ate EVERY crawfish and only left a handful of shrimp and gator.

Round-Up!

2008-05-25T17:47:00.002-05:00

Saturday, all of Cooper's new friends returned home from a week of Round-Up camp. While Coop was sad, we will all have great memories from the week. This year, Billy charged all the "campers" to hold him or take pictures of him. Check out these pictures from Wednesday night... (notice the $5 bill in Coop's hand).

Time to catch everyone up!

2008-05-21T09:52:00.005-05:00

This week has been loads of fun for Cooper and his Daddy. This week is "Round Up" at the college and is like a summer camp for the young at heart. These "campers" stay on campus and go to bible classes, history classes, and participate in other fun activities. Billy helps run the week long camp and Coop and I have been joining him for lunch and supper. Cooper has enjoyed meeting all of Billy's "senior friends". Last night was "Hawaiian Luau night" and Cooper and his daddy got in on the "action".

We have posted a video on youtube if you are interested... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEAGyN41m1k

VIDEO!!!!

2008-05-20T19:23:00.003-05:00

Finally... we have video for you. Check it out on youtube. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEAGyN41m1k)

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-12T09:44:00.002-05:00

This year was my first Mother's Day. Cooper and his daddy made it very special for me. They bought me a beautiful "Mother and Child" necklace and took me out to lunch. The day before they let me take a long nap and cleaned the house! What a nice weekend for this Mom! Many thanks to my Mom (Lulu) and Mrs. Lones (Grandma) for giving Billy and I such great examples of strong, Christian mothers. We hope you guys had a great Mother's Day too. We love you both!

Busy, Busy, Busy!

2008-05-07T11:03:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was a busy day for Coop and I. I had to give a review for my history final, so Cooper got to spend some time with Miss Tonya who held him and loved on him the whole time. After the review, I picked Cooper up to go to a "retirement" reception for Emily (one of my dearest friends who is leaving the college). Evidentally, the party was too exciting for him (see picture). He fussed for a minute, so I went to the next room to change him and before I could even put him on the mat to change him, he had passed out on my shoulder. We couldn't resist taking a picture. After the party, Cooper went to his first History lecture put on by the graduating history students. Coop was pretty quiet and very respectful. :) What a busy day!

Smiles from Cooper

2008-05-05T15:49:00.002-05:00

I was so excited because this weekend I was able to catch Cooper smiling on camera! He has become more and more expressive and vocal. He is a very happy baby and we are SO blessed to be his parents.

Photo Op!

2008-05-01T13:50:00.003-05:00

Today was picture day for Cooper and his buddy Brody. Brody is 2 weeks younger than Cooper and they will be great friends just like their mommies. :) I attached a picture of the 2 little men and one of Cooper and Clara (Brody's sister). Clara LOVES "Booper"!

Happy 1 Month Birthday Cooper!

2008-04-29T14:09:00.002-05:00

Today is Cooper's 1 month birthday and while he seems completely unfazed by it, I am overwhelmed with happiness at how he has changed mine and Billy's lives. He is the sweetest little guy ever and we are so blessed to have had him join our family. We can't wait to see what the next month brings!

Weekend fun!

2008-04-28T10:08:00.006-05:00

This was a great weekend for the Lones family. Friday night we went out with our Sunday School Class to dinner and Cooper was loved on by several people there. He did such a great job of staying happy and pleasant. Saturday was a big day for all of us. We went to Lincoln (approximately 45 minutes away) to run some errands all day and Cooper was a perfect angel. He was never fussy and spent most of the day in his car seat perfectly content. What a great blessing to have a laid back kid! Yesterday was church and even though Billy had to get up with him to walk for a little while during the service, Coop was great during Sunday school and even let Auntie Annahleise hold him the whole time. She was in heaven! Below are 2 pictures from our
adventure in Target.

Finally!

2008-04-25T10:26:00.004-05:00

Well, I have been wanting to find a way to update my friends and family on our lives in Nebraska and most especially on our newest family member... Cooper Maloy Lones (born- March 29th, 2008). I will be adding pictures and information as often as possible, so check back often!

The Lones Family

Summer Lovin'

Birthdays are for remembering...

A little out of the ordinary...

New tricks...

Happiness is...

Gratituesday (part deux)

Gratituesday (gotta love my man!)

And she's down for the count... (and more)

Stay away...

They are dropping like flies...

Pictures from yesterday and today

Silly and amazing coincidences...

Day is done... gone the sun...

Fridays are the greatest!

He's growing up on me... *SOB!*

Gratituesday (reflections on 2 years)

Sick but smiling...

Gratituesday (inspired by L.C.)

Snow during Spring Break and other "sneaky" things...

Calleigh's dress

Daddy's girl...

A few more pics from Pops and Lulu's visit

A few pics

Love and Spoilin'

Fingers crossed

Grrr... teeth!

Yuck!

Just another day...

A video...

Pictures

Man oh Man

Halloween Costumes...

trip, haircuts, and snow... oh my!

REALLY... Snow??

Cooper's 18 month appointment

Just another Monday

New to us...

Busy Week

Catching up!

Water Baby!!!

New tricks!

Happy New Year!

It's a Girl! AND It's Coop's 9 month birthday!

Pictures

Happy Thanksgiving!

Big News!

6 months old!!!

Sitting, propping, and rocking, OH MY!

5 months and counting!!!

Good Morning from Cooper

Yummy... Squash!

Little buddies

New food

BIG Day!!!

Too Long!

Happy Baby!

Traveling Shoes!

Happy Father's Day

Rock and Roll Baby!

Time to catch up!

Sunday news...

Round-Up!

Time to catch everyone up!

VIDEO!!!!

Happy Mother's Day

Busy, Busy, Busy!

Smiles from Cooper

Photo Op!

Happy 1 Month Birthday Cooper!

Weekend fun!

Finally!

He's growing up on me... SOB!