Pieces of Meeks

Keep Rollin' Rollin' Rollin'

2008-12-28T20:25:00.000-08:00

That is how we feel right now. Christmas has come and gone and we feel blessed to have such wonderful families. We made a week long trip to San Antonio to spend the holidays with my family. It feels like a whirlwind when you are traveling with a 3 1/2 year old and almost 5 month old. For the most part they did great. We all came home tired and Chloe came home sick. She would tell you she was "fine", but the cough and fever said otherwise.

Tucker is just a few days shy of 5 months old! Where does the time go. How is it that he has almost been here half a year. It makes my heart hurt to think how quickly it goes. He is rolling over like a champ. Sister likes to "help" him although Jeremy and I dont consider it help so we try to keep her from bugging him to much.

J is working hard finishing out one more year of sales. God continues to bless our family and J is such a wonderful husband, father and provider.

I am still hard at work - at work, at home just where ever. I have been inspired by my older sister. She is an attendance administrator at an elementary school and during her time has met a few friends of the canine variety. Sunny, Paisley and Grace are golden doodles and are Delta Society therapy dogs. My sister has watched these amazing animals help autistic children, and works with all inclusion children. They are simply amazing. Well- my sister and I have a dream of having our own therapy dogs. The school district we live in has nothing like this that I know of- so I would like to train a dog through the delta society and either work through our local hospital with terminal patients or through the school district. I think it is amazing work and as many of you know I have a heart for doggies!

Well that is what we are up to. Just rolling along!

Thanksgiving, Baby Blessings and 4 Months...

2008-12-02T09:09:00.000-08:00

Life at the Meeks house is hopping as usual- we are now just hoping around Christmas decorations. Last week for Thanksgiving we enjoyed our little family of four in pajamas all day, with a fire in the fireplace. I cooked a small, scaled down meal with turkey, sweet potatoe casserole, mashed potatoes and rolls. I used a recipe from Tyler Florence from the Food Network and it was awesome! It was so nice to just spend time and our house enjoying the kiddos.

On Saturday Jeremy's mom and dad came in town. I went shopping at Target (after black Friday) I didnt want to shop but my huge baby boy is in some 6 month but mostly 9 month clothing. My sweet friend Summer gave us all of her little boys cute cute stuff since she had precious Addie, and I am so lucky for that. Had I bought him clothes like I did Chloe I would be in so much trouble. Chloe was always true to, or behind in size. She is still such a petite little thing her brother is going to catch her. So luckily we have Ethan's stuff and I have added to it as I needed to. I would have been totally off on seasons had I bought to early for him. So I got some good deals at Target- although Carters is always a pretty good deal for cute comfy baby clothes.

Then on Sunday we had his baby blessing at church. Have you ever had one of those moments where you are so overwhlemed you feel your throat well up and you feel like you could burst out laughing and crying all at the same time. That is what Sunday was like for me. To see my sweet little girl so proud of her little brother march up on that stage, and then to hold a perfect little boy and to see our congregation pray over his little life is such an overwhelming thing for me. I love the part in the prayer where our preacher says " and we pray for his tiny lips and anxiously await the day when they profess you as Lord." I mean isnt that what every mommy prays for. A healthy child- yes, a sweet spouse- yes, college, success, the list goes on and on, but salvation and knowing Jesus love- what a burdensome prayer that is as a mother. Wanting your child to so badly know salvation. I just love that piece of the prayer.

Today- our little man has been with us four months. Although my rear end size still thinks it has only been three days!! He has changed and is the most pleasant, sweet and smiley little boy. I cant help but kiss him 100 times and almost suck his cheeks off when I do. His sister loves to "hold" him. I hope babies can feel love, because this little boy is so loved. Our life is sweeter everyday with the two of them. (Remind me I said this when the teenage years hit)

Chloe is anxiously awaiting the arrival of Santa - and snow. YIKES!! Last year we were in Ruidoso at Christmas and there was snow that entire week- a Texas Christmas might be a little disappointing! Either way- Santa will come through. She assures us she is a good little girl. And one of her requests is "chalk for her Tweezle." (That is an easle!!!)

We are loving life and feel blessed. It is hard as a mother to not worry and panic and pray every moment for their safety, but I know the Lord will take care and provide no matter what peak or valley we are in.

One Lucky Woman

2008-11-13T12:48:00.001-08:00

Not only am I so lucky to have a great photographer to take these pictures. I am one lucky momma and wife. What a precious faces I get to wake up to in the morning. Hope you like these. Thank you Debbie for not only making my face smile but for making my heart smile. And Jeremy thank you for marrying me and giving me these sweet faces. Can you tell how much that man loves his babies? What a great daddy.

We Are Just Worn Out!

2008-11-04T12:38:00.001-08:00

This picture says it all- we have been so busy- I wonder if you are all even still out there!

I cant even begin to explain how busy the late part of September and the entire month of October has been. I will just say that I have had 4 fundraising events, a three year old, a newborn and husband who still expects to have clean clothes. So I apologize immensly for my lack of updating so here we go-

She is 3 and busy. We have signed her up for a Pre K program for next year. I am so excited about what a precious school she will be attending. The teachers seem so great- along with the administration. I am really excited about her having such a great cirriculum with such sweet people. Where she has gone has been great but she will be 4 and I think it will be so good for her.

She is also starting gymnastics this Thursday- after a birthday party we went to for a sweet friend she decided gymnastics was for her. I am sure there will be plenty of funny stories to tell.

She is the sweetest blessing. She amazes me how smart she is, she is so independent yet lovable. She never forgets to tell me what a "sweet mommy" I am, and there is no more pure compliment out there. I love to kiss her bossy little lips and smell her sweet head. I don't know what we did before we had this little petite wonder in our life. She makes us laugh all the time and the list would be to long to even begin to tell of the funny things she says. Did you know there was such a thing as a "combotard" well there is- it is in your "bafroom" and we apparantly have one. So if you know what it is- please fill me in!

As for the newest member. Time is flying by to quick. He just turned 3 months on Sunday but he wears 6 month clothing. He is weighing in at 16 lbs!!! He loves cereal and now that I mix it with fruit it is a real treat. I am pretty sure he will be my BIG teddy bear. He loves to cuddle and smile but he is much more laid back than she ever has been.

How God finds a way to fit all this love in a mommy is indescribeable. I look forward to many years. I pray for protection over them almost constantly- but I relish in this time because it is all to fleeting and it is truly the best time of my life. Hopefully it wont be to much longer till I post again now that work is slowing again.

Yes! He is Here and We are Alive

2008-08-17T12:21:00.000-07:00

So sorry in the delayed blog. I know you are all waiting to see some pics of our precious kids and it has taken me way to long to get them up. He is two weeks old as of yesterday and it has pretty much taken me that long to get back on my feet. This was a hard realization for me since I was back on me feet after three days with Chloe. The problem was not the actual birth of him- which went very smooth and quickly:

- Check in 8:00 already a "three"
-Check me at 10:00 and administer an epidural "six"
- Tell the nurse at 12:15 that I feel like I needed to push- she checks I am a "10"
-Start pushing at 12:40
-He arrives 8lbs 8oz and 23 inches long at 12:58

So where is the problem? Well when they gave me the epidural they couldnt find the place it needed to fit so I was poked four times with the epi needle (big, long and messes with your spine) Either way it was worth it to me to let them dork around back there- I have a high pain tolerance and it wasnt bothering me- J on the other hand had to leave the room...
This resulted in a spinal headache and back spasms for the last two weeks. It meant I had to take it easy- I dont like taking it "easy". It also meant that I had to take it easy carrying him, feeding him etc, because I couldnt sit up alot. Not fun for a new mom!

Also they found out the ten minutes before I delivered that I was anemic from eating so little the last week or two- we now know I wasnt hungry because I was housing baby huey!! But either way I lost alot of blood in the process and had to have a transfusion...this TOTALLY creeps me out. It was "stangers" blood and it just makes me nervous that with my luck I will get some disease or something. They swear it was screened- oh gosh I hope so!!

So that is the long and short of it. Here is what you are all here for- follow this link and you can see ALL pics taken from then until this morning!!

www.flickr.com/photos/jkmeeks/

Welcome to the Meeks: Breathing and Sleeping Optional

2008-07-27T18:19:00.000-07:00

Well we are 6 days away from my induction. I have had moments where I thought I might forego being induced and just let him come on his own. Then I remember that I havent slept a full night in two weeks because of contractions and pain and that breathing full deep breaths has become something I only dream about. On top of that- when I get up at night to come lay on the couch I tend to wake Chloe up and so it is me and a three year old hanging out at 3 am.

I know, I know toughen up- Kate Gosselin had 6 in her at one time! :) What I wuss I am. Well that is about all I have to update. We are going through all the normal things right now. I am nesting trying to get all closets and the pantry and rooms and clothes and blankets and bottles; you get the idea....in order for Saturday.

Chloe officially turns three tomorrow which means three years ago to the day I was this big and hot and uncomfortable! Jeremy is not allowed near me in November ever again! :) We had her Tinker Bell party a week ago with our friends the Fuquas and she loved it. We sang to her and she got a cake- that is all that mattered to her right now. I can wait for 16 when she will want "car" over "cake"...

I will keep blog land updated if anyone still reads. Oh yeah- we finally decided on a name-

TUCKER BLAKE

If you dont like it- keep it to yourself because I dont want to loose sleep over it anymore! :)

I Should Be Ashamed

2008-07-01T06:53:00.000-07:00

Last night as I was shaming my friend Wendy for not having updated her blog I was sadly knocked off my high horse as she informed me that my post was actually three days older than hers! OOPS! :) Where does the time go?

I guess we are officially in countdown stages. Four to five weeks to go depending on when he decides this baby needs to come. Originally I has said I wanted to try to hold it in until the 4th, but now as things are getting closer and my body is getting more and more tired and sore the idea of the 1st isnt to sounding to bad. I am a wuss. I wish I could just wait and let him come, but if the doctor is promising relief and oxygen again before Tucker chooses to make his appearance I am going to have to say okay! Good thing I never lived on the frontier!

With all of that said, my sweet, sweet friends had a baby shower for me this past weekend and it was so great. We got such great stuff and feel so blessed (and spoiled) to have so many people that care for us and are waiting with us as we await his arrival. Thank you girls!

We are in constant prayer that he arrives safe and sound. It is hard to not let your mind wander on to all the things that could go wrong. We have no reason to believe he wont have a safe delivery, but your prayers are definately appreciated.

Work is busy, busy and I am looking forward to starting my maternity leave in three weeks. The week of downtime will be nice to rest and hang with Chloe. She is one excited big sister. We have discussed everything her little three year old mind can think of from what we do with dirty diapers, to feeding him, to bathing him and even to how he will not share with her until he is "big like her."

Life in the Meeks house is moving along at rapid paces right now. I have to stand back and take it all in as I am still in disbelief I am going to be a mother of two!

Continue to pray for the closing of our house. We are waiting anxiously for this to all be tied up and done. Two house ownership has not been for us! We are thankful for this contract though and just pray that it all ends up smoothly.

Sorry for the lack in posts and sadly I dont even have alot of pictures to post. Jeremy has taken over the managment of our photo accounts and they are not very user friendly...we are currently in negotiations!

As Promised

2008-05-30T07:26:00.000-07:00

...so what if they are six months late!

I wanted to post some pictures of our sweet little girl. She tells everyone she is 2 and 1/2 and it struck me the other day when we got our friend Ethan's invitation- oh my goodness, she is turning three in two months. How time flies when you are having fun, and we truly are. She is hysterical and keeps us laughing all the time. She makes up words when she cant think of the right one and is completely obsessive about things happening "as they are supposed to." She is a schedule junkie just like her momma!

We are anxioulsy awaiting the arrival of baby Tucker in just about 8 weeks (no- I havent made up my mind yet about his name) and Chloe asks daily if he is coming out today. Here is a conversation we had on the way home from school the other day:

Chloe: "When will Tucker come out"

Mommy: "In August- right after your birthday when you turn 3."

Chloe: (thinking- not sure when August is)

Mommy: (more clarification) "When you turn three on July 28 baby Tucker will be here just a few days later. It will be like a birthday present for you!" (smiling big trying to envoke excitment)

Chloe: (Long pause) "well - lip smack- will I get other presents too?"

So as you can tell we have lots of laughter at our house and that is good for her daddy and I. It is hard to imagine having two to love this much, but I cant wait.

House Update: We have an offer and a contract- it isnt perfect- but hey beggars cant be choosers so we ask for your prayers that it all falls into place, the inspection goes smoothly and that we are able to close in July as planned.

Now for the pics-

Sweet Pose for Daddy

Turned Silly Face Fillin' up Mater- her gas doesnt cost $4.00 a gallon

Multiple Choice

2008-05-23T09:19:00.000-07:00

I said I was set on it. I said I wasn't changing my mind. BUT, I am a woman and it is my prerogative to do so. After many sleepless nights because I was not "in love" with my sons name I have decided to consider other options. I love the name Tucker. I have like that name forever and think it is so cute. My problem comes with my OCD personality. I love the name Jarod too, but I don't like it being his first name. "Okay, so switch it." Well it doesn't sound the same to me. I just don't like it as much. So in order to appease my personality and my ear I have come up with five new choices- some familial and some that I just like the sound of- and since my husband has decided as long as I name him Tucker he doesn't care I am reaching out to blog land for guidance and opinions. No feelings will be hurt just cast your vote. Chloe is named after my grandmother. I love her name and it warms my heart. I want the same for him. A name is so important. He will carry it all his life so I need help making sure he has a name he can be proud of ( and of course sounds good over the loud speakers at Yankee stadium- "now up to bat, catcher, Tucker Meeks" you see where I am going with that.) It has to be good initials, look pretty monogrammed and something a girl will want to say, "I am dating Tucker Meeks, you know the quarter back." So cast your vote here and help a crazy pregnant lady out. I mean we are two months away people- the monogramming must commence!

a. Tucker Everett (Everett is my dad's middle name- he hates this name, but I would be proud if my son carried a piece of him around)

b. Tucker Emerson (my grandmother's maiden name)

c. Tucker Hayes (just think it is pretty)

d. Tucker Cole (just think it is pretty)

e. Tucker Zachary ( my little brothers name- again so proud for him to wear)

It is up to you blog land! I will let you know the outcome.

I Was Tagged!

2008-05-12T10:29:00.000-07:00

I have never been tagged before- it was so exciting. So thank you Wendy, for giving me something to blog about that doesnt involve real estate, work or uterusus. :)

What FIVE skills or hobbies would you learn if you had unlimited time, money and tools?

1. Sewing- at the risk of sounding like Donna Reed I have always wanted to be able to whip up a cute pillow or curtains. I mean I seriously paid good money to some people here in town to whip up a two fabric panel curtain! I mean think of all the cute girl clothes I could whip up.

2. Working out- just cant stay committed. I really really wish I loved lifting weights and stuff and could have a trainer to hold me accountable so that I could have a super hot body- sorry J- like I said, no love for it at all.

3. Decorating- I have an okay eye for this and love to put together and atmosphere, but the questions was with unlimited tools and money- that is the tricky part.

4. Baking/Cooking- I am with Wendy. I can cook most anything I think and I love to entertain at the house, but I would love to have more time to do it and make it really special with "table scapes" and matching dishes and a neat atmosphere. There is that money thing again though! Plus I would want to upgrade all my kitchen tools and stuff so that I could be really good!

5. And my dark secret one is gymnastics. I did it for many many years and LOVED it. I stayed in shape and was pretty good at it. Truth be told I contacted a gym here- pre pregnancy of course- and told them that I wanted to start up again. They asked me my age and then sat silent because there classes stop at 18. Talk about making a woman feel old. So I actually have the time and the money for this small hobby apparantly I just dont have the right birth year! :)

3 Month Countdown

2008-05-06T07:18:00.000-07:00

When I was pregnant with Chloe I blogged everyday about every little thing. It seemed like she would never get here. I think J and I sat around daily wondering what she would look like or what her personality would be- fast forward three years later- I am 6 months pregnant with three left to go and I cant even hardly remember Tucker's pregnancy and its not even over.

Things are still fairly crazy at the Meeks' house. J's job situation has settled down and thankfully it doesnt look like we will be moving. Our house still hasnt sold and we now affectionately call it our "vacation home" because you know if I could afford one it would only be 10 minutes across town! ha! But we press on and have faith that it will sell during the up and coming busy time of year.

Tucker is scheduled to arrive August 8th now but of course plus or minus a few days. I will most likely be induced again because I loved it. I know I missing the whole agonizing pain thing of "going" into labor and racing to the hospital, but for an OCD person such as myself the planned way worked so great.

Although things have seemed so crazy and we hardly have had time to sit and breathe we are so excited to meet him and wonder what life will be like with this new member of our family. It feels wierd to say his name or talk about him. I guess I feel like it should just be Chloe all over again.

I will try to post pictures soon, but for now it will just have to go on the to do list.

Choosing to Follow

2008-04-07T07:09:00.000-07:00

Okay I know it has been a while, but I have a really, really good excuse! To say that life has been crazy around here would be an understatment. At the beginning of March we were told to expect some MAJOR (negative) job changes for J. With a baby on the way, a two and a half year old with a developing shoe fetish and two house payments we were a bit paniced! We began to pray- I coupled that with crying- and we begin to see some door open up. The story is really to long and drawn out to explain, but needless to say I am so glad it is April. God is showing us His faithfullness, and although I dont understand the events of the past few weeks I know that He does and in some amount of time I will be able to look back and see His hand all over this. I have told so many people that I had seen God's fingerprints in so many areas in March, now I seem a bit more confused by that because things that we felt we were led to do have "fallen through" but I am trying to believe with my whole heart that He knows the "plans he has for me..."

I am relieved that we arent having to move or have another house on the market, but at the same time I am still confused at what he is trying to teach me. I know J feels that way because a lot initial confusion came with the past four weeks. I know I am being vauge. Most of my readers know the chain of events and have been faithful in prayer so I wont bore you with details. More than anything I guess it has called into question my ability to fully trust what I think the Lord wants or is doing. I go for a twenty four week ultrasound today and all of these events have put a sort of fear in my life. What if something is terribly wrong, what if Tucker is not okay, what if I am not okay? I feel like, more than ever things are just up for chance.

As a Christian I know I am not supposed to feel this way and more than anything I am allowing Satan to use doubt and fear to run my life. No matter what I am choosing to trust Him, I am choosing to follow a path that gives me no clues as to what is ahead. And I know that I am blessed to have a wonderful faithful husband, a happy precious, silly, giggly two year old who loves me and that makes this journey just a little bit more bearable.

Under Pressure

2008-02-27T07:23:00.000-08:00

You know that song. I love it. I mean I love the beat and all of that. When it comes on the radio in the car I cant help but bob my head along with it. Just because I love the song doenst mean I like the way it feels to be "under pressure."

Things with Tucker seem good. No huge changes and we are still planning on him at the beginning of August. Chloe is excited to have him here, but I think I am allowing other things to steal my joy of this fun time. We STILL havent sold the house. I understand all the "facts", we arent selling in a "desireable" price range, it is big and the market is so slow here, but that doesnt mean that I am happy about it. A few months ago when we had the FULL PRICE OFFER in one week after it was on the market, and then it all fell through 4 days before our move, we just felt like we were making the right decision. Surely the house will sell so quickly. It is a great house, with great charm and character. If someone would have told me this is where we would be, I would do everything differently. And I HATE THAT!

I think of myself as pretty business savy, smart, and I am not a risk taker at all. I let myself take a risk that I now regret and because of this one thing I cant let myself enjoy anything else. I stress over budgets and bills. I am angry that is cost so stinking much to have a baby and annoyed that I have to pay an extra $350 for him to be circumcised. I want to decorate his room (or atleast start) yet I will not let myself spend the money and that is frustrating.

Please excuse the vent...I know that there are greater, much more sad things going on in the world, but today I had to get it off my chest. No cutsie, smushy "the baby is coming" blog. There are just alot of things out there in my little world that seem to be pressing in and stealing my joy. In Exodus God leads the people through the wilderness, He parts the red sea, yet when they are standing needing a drink of fresh water and all there is, is a bitter drink, they get mad and forget what he had done for them. Maybe this is what I am doing- NO! This is what I am doing. I am allowing Satan to push me to be mad, and steal my joy- forgetting all the time what God has done for me and my little family, and that he has always provided. I guess I will work on finding the joy in the small things until the big things are under control!

And the Winner is...

2008-02-18T10:49:00.000-08:00

Okay ladies (and anonyomous person) you did it! 10 comments, although there was a little cheating I will still reward you.

I do have to say first- Kara- you win! Your comment and advice on the peeing cracked me up over and over again! I think I will have to try it just for the "game" of it!

Drum Roll Please....

Jarod Tucker Meeks - to be called- Tucker.

Suprise, Surprise

2008-02-13T13:16:00.000-08:00

I dont know why it has been so hard for me to update lately. It guess it could be that I have just very recently (though not completely) returned back to the land of the living. Unfortunatley at times pregnancy does not suit me well, and one of those times happens to be weeks 7-14 of pregnancy. But I approached 14 on Tuesday (yesterday) and on Monday actually has a failry normal day.

This sickness, also coupled with the fact that I work at the one place on earth that has no sympathy for a "typical" pregnant woman, as we tend to work with some very "atypical" woman who have it a lot harder than me, and women who cant concieve children naturally- so my everyday run of the mill pregnancy seems almost blahsae around here, so work is piling up as I try to stay just ahead of the curver to not hit the wall.

But today was a turning point and as I got up bright and early this morning, feeling quite well, I dressed in my suit for a big meeting I had, got in my car (and realized it was a dwelling place of disrepute) vowed to get "my life back in order." I have since cleaned out my car and had it washed, cleaned my office including dusting and hiding away the jumbo bottle of Maalox and planning out my marketing calendar. And when I get home if the energy is still intact I will be attacking the hole that is our bedroom.

My precious husband and daughter have been nothing short of fantastic but their 2 year old and 28 year old male definitions of clean differ quite a bit from their OCD mother/wife. So I am glad to be feeling better and taking control of life again. Now you might ask what this blog has to do with the cute pair of Robeez I have at the top, yes it is the start of college baseball but that is not it... let me just tell you!

On Monday we went for my 14 week check up. My good doctor wanted to do another ultrasound at the end of the first trimester just to check out the growth of our little sprout. Well as he proceeded to turn on the machine and find our little wiggly bundle this is the conversation that ensued...

Dr. A- "Well there is our very photogenic little baby...ummm...and kids...(Katie interrupts as she looks in amazement at the screen)

K- "Is that a pee pee" (yes this is the medical term for boy parts!)

J- "What!?"

Dr. A- "Yes it is Katie. That is a very healthy looking boy" (he meant in general not size of or anything)

From there the conversation pretty much went downhill. Jeremy is whooping in the background and I am asking the doctor if it is normal that it is already "there" and will it be "abnormally big" -which apparantly something men dont worry about- because it has all this growing time. He assured me that sometimes the baby is in the right position and we get lucky enough to see it this early and that I should not worry. He also said had nothing been there we just wouldnt have thought anything yet (like girl or boy), but fortunately (unfortunately) we have a very UNASHAMED little boy and so we were lucky and and able to find out that we are:

"HAVING A BABY BOY"

Now people I need some adivce on how not to get peed on! And if you want to know the name we have picked out for him I will have to have atleast 10 comments!

Quick Update

2008-01-28T07:42:00.000-08:00

We are starting week 11! I am still feeling puny and it hasnt helped that I got some sort of sinus and eye infection on top of being pregie sick, but...I did go to the doctor last Wednesday and everything looks great. He did a sonogram and the baby was just flipping and flopping as happy as could be! It was really good for me to see that. I have felt and questioned if I was pregnant or just had a terrible flu. Plus on occassion I do get bumbed because I cant be there for Chloe like I want to be playing.

Chloe loved seeing the picture of the baby and talks all the time about being a big sister. We will see how she feels when she ACTUALLY IS!

Time to Start Again

2008-01-08T10:41:00.000-08:00

When I was pregnant with Chloe I journaled alot of it through my blog. It consisted mainly of me griping about my indegestion or growing waistline, but nonetheless it was a journal of my pregnancy with her. I feel like I should do this for baby number two as well, although I feel that this journal will take on a different shape. Having been through pregnancy before the morning sickness has not come as a big surprise -or in my case morning, afternoon and night- and neither is the idea that in a few months my body will take on a whole new appearance, and with round one running happily around the house as a beautiful, silly two and a half year old those things that seemed so "annoying" during the first pregnancy, now seem to be- well- worth it! So I can see this new pregnancy journal taking on the thoughts and feelings I am having as i am about to do this whole mommy thing again.

As I look at Chloe it is hard to remember her as that tiny little baby I brought home that Saturday in July, and yet at the same time it seems like it was yesterday. It took me a few weeks to get balanced out on work and mommy life and it has taken me longer to get both being a working woman and a mom to happily coexsist together. For us- so far- this mix has worked for our family and just before I found out baby number two was in route I was telling J how I felt like I had this under control. I knew what I was doing and minor hiccups in the schedules of the day didnt seem to make a difference anymore. I had found the energy, the desire and the ability to "do all I need to do" to be a good mom, wife and employee. Then God laughed and said, then it is time for round 2!

It is hard to believe that we are doing this all again, and I know to some two children, three years apart seems like a cake walk (Kara, Leslie, Hannah, Allison...the list goes on) but it is hard to believe that I will be a mother of two and it is hard to believe that this time could all be different and that it wont be Chloe we bring home again. It will be a completely new ballgame with a completely new child. One who could possible be- not as healthy as Chloe or who has a senstive gag reflex- Chloe has never thrown up (knock on wood) So this time around I imagine this journal will be more about what our family of three will be like as a family of four. I am excited, happy and blessed- but I am also a little sad to be giving up our little family of three, I am nervous about what baby number two will challege me with and I find it almost mind boggling that I could love another child the way I love our first little one.

So dear readers (which I have found out from the previous entry there are more of you than I realized- lurkers!) bear with me over the next nine months as I get ready for the challenge as a mommy of TWO! Dont worry- you will be rewarded with pictures.

Let it Snow

2007-12-31T13:03:00.000-08:00

We are home safe and sound from all of our holiday travel. It was so much fun spending time with both families and boy did we rake in the loot.

We spent the weekend before Christmas with my family and Jeremy and I got and AppleTV which is really cool. Then we headed to Ruidoso to spend Christmas day with Jeremys family. It was so neat and it snowed. We went on a sleigh ride and Chloe got to sled - which she absloutley loved. She got a Texas Tech cheerleading uniform and a baby piano that is pink. She plays the piano while wearing the uniform. She loves being a cheerleader though. Must run in the genes. Thanks to hunny and papa for that gift. We had a meltdown when it had to be washed.

I got a kitchenaid mixer (red) which I have wanted since J and I got married and J and I both got Sirius radio for our cars. J will definately love this with his job and traveling.

The biggest gift we got this Christmas and the one that we will remember most is that we found out we are expecting BABY NUMBER TWO! I know...we werent expecting it either. We are thrilled I am about 8 weeks along and due August 14th (Chloe was due August 11th) so once I get over the all day vomiting I will be excited. So there is the news. We go to the doctor on the 22nd to get the first sonogram- so keep baby Meeks number 2 in your prayers.

Merry Christmas and Happy 2008!

Update...Finally!

2007-12-03T10:54:00.000-08:00

Sorry there has been no update in a while. Things are crazy in our little world. Work is great and defiantely keeps me busy. House is always a mess so I try to keep it clean and everyone fed and clothed and bathed. We have traveled alot for Thanksgiving which was wonderful to get a way and see all of our family. We are very much looking forward to the continuation of holiday travel.

In addition to our crazy lives- as some of you know in Ocotber we had sold our house after only a week on the market. It was a great wonderful older home with tons of charm, but was more than J or I could handle keeping up with right now due to its size. Plus with the slew of dogs we have we needed a little larger yard. So we put it on the market for a "trial run". We were in no hurry to sale and if it happend then that was great. Well within a week we had a full offer. Made it through the inspection, and were on our way to the closing table. We waited three weeks until we were three weeks from closing and we put a contract on a house that was under contruction. Our goal was to get back to the "new" house for convienence sake. We were downsizing in square footage but this house seem to fit us. We were so excited. THEN...four days before we were to close and move out of the old and into the new, the bank pulled the financing on the people who were buying ours. NIGHTMARE!!! ABSOLUTE NIGHTMARE! Now I know there are worse things in comparison, but lets just say my stress level was out of wack! We didnt know what to do, because if we hadnt put a contract down on another house we would have been homeless. If we hadnt started packing we would have made the movers mad! So now we were left with the decison of walking away from our contract and loosing ALOT of money or moving and hoping our house would sell again. Well....we moved. We are enduring and it is NO FUN! It affects everything, but I know that God is faithful, and He will work it all out in His own time. Sometimes I just wish His time and my time were on the same timeline!

Old House

New House- Still underconstruction

So that is what we have been up to. We love the new house. ADORE it! It is all Christmased up and Chloe loves the tree. We had snow and that was so neat to watch her play in it and be amazed with it. Today it is 70, so who knows how to explain Texas weather to her. And now for the REALLY big news....

It has happened. Chloe is potty trained. I have to admit it was easy, seeing how she decided it for herself after matching "Elmo's Potty Time" one too many times. She is an absolute champ at it and has only had one or two accidents. So all of you moms out there who are jealous, please dont be! As great as it is that she is growing up there is a certain amount of sadness that comes with watching her grow into a little girl and not be a baby anymore. I guess no matter what I will always consider her my baby, even if she loves wearing red high heels and pottying in the pottie pot!

Sassy Little Girl!

hope all my readers have a great week, and J and I would ask that you keep the sale of our home in your prayers.

"RAFFE"

2007-10-31T07:28:00.000-07:00

If you have spent any time at all with our little family, you would know that most of the time we are accompanied by Chloe's little friend "Raffe." Chloe since being a baby, has loved the one floppy, soft animal that happens to be a giraffe. She sleeps with him, carries him to school, and has rubbed his poor little tail until it is now a nappy little mess. I tried to replace Raffe one time with a new "clean" Raffe, but I failed and now that Raffe is refered to as "the utter one." So, I have washed the original Raffe so much that he now holds no more of the little beads that made him floppy, he has a whole in his chest from little fingers picking at him, and he occassionally is attacked by a killer pug named Lilly, before Chloe freaks and mommy runs to the rescue. I give you all the back history for a reason. Since the Great Love of 2005 began Chloe is obsessed with everything Giraffe. The ones at the zoo, the only blanket she likes is Giraffe print, and the other day at the mall when I was drooling over the new Dooney and Burke Giraffe print purse, she cried ALMOST as hard as I did, when we couldnt get it because it was $425!!! So for halloween it seemed only fitting when my sweet friend Summer ran across the Gymboree Giraffe costume on sale that it would be the perfect costume for her this year. Well she couldnt look cuter and so I will get to the reason you all come here...the pictures! Happy Giraffeoween!

"Quick, Quick!"

2007-10-22T09:23:00.000-07:00

That is the statment that Chloe makes to me when she is wanting to do something that I dont want her to do, i.e., "Chloe don't go outside to give the dogs a treat, you will get dirty and we are running late." To which she replies, "Momma, I will be real quick quick." I feel as though this scenario could also play out something like this, "Chloe don't grow up, please stay my little girl forever." "But momma, it will be real quick, quick." And it is....

Chloe is almost two and a half, and as I look back I cant figure out where it has gone. What is even worse, is that my two year old doesnt act like a baby, she acts like a 16 year old. I remember telling Jeremy, that when Chloe is three or so I would like to have another baby...well three is almost here, and I just cant be ready. Not because I dont want another baby, but because as soon as that baby is here, this precious time with our first born all by herself is gone.

It is bittersweet to watch your child grow up. I never quite knew why my parents couldnt just "let go", but now I do. Even though she has only been with us a short two years, she has changed our lives forever. Her smiles, her dancing, the converstations we get to have at dinner, everything has changed. I had to call Jeremy the other day at work to let him know that Chloe had poo pooed in the pottie twice that day. He said what I was thinking, "wow how our phone calls have changed." Chloe has changed everything. She has made me feel more love that I ever thought I could. Love for her, love for her daddy. It is easy to love your children, but when you see how the man you marry loves her and will try his hardest to fix the hair bow at the football game, or will walk so that she can better see the cheerleaders despite the fact it is not the best view of the game, or hold her little hands as she says her prayers; you find a love with him like you have never known. Jeremy is the best daddy. He will forego hunting, to shoe shop and spend his Friday nights playing "Baby Stella" instead of watching ESPN.

Life is forever changed, and as Chloe would say it all happened so "quick, quick." There are times before Chloe was born that I wonderend how would be married for 50 years, and times that I was scared of the next months trying to figure out marriage, but after Chloe I can imagine being the mommy of any other little girl, or the wife of any other copier salesman. I just wish it didnt have to go so "quick, quick."

This weekend was our alma mater's homecoming and she loved the game, the cheerleaders and the idea of seeing where mommy and daddy went to school. Never before in the last 4 years have I been proud of where I went to school. I mean I liked college and all, but I didnt bleed purple and white. Until this weekend, when we stood on the campus where I met my little girls father and we began our life together. A life that God has not only saved, at times, but has blessed more than I ever deserve. As we swung on the swing last night, it was almost to much to take in. I am the luckiest woman in the world.

Here is a picture of our little wildcat....she is showing you her paw print, with the signature Chloe smile. And just a teaser, she will be starting gymnastics in January, so as you can imagine there will be alot more great picture to come, i.e., Chloe in a leotard!

OK OK

2007-10-01T20:17:00.000-07:00

I get it. I am a terrible blogger. Well that isnt completely true, I read everyone else's blog I just dont update my own. And honestly I didnt realize how long it had been since I had updates and felt terribly gulity after looking at it tonight. So...here it goes. First I was tagged by Wendy to give 8 things about myself:

1. I was really, really short all my life and actually had to take growth hormone to be the whopping 5 foot 6 I am today.
2. I have terrible skin. For whatever reason the skin God gave me on my face has been trying to reject me since I was 16! (Thank you microderm!)
3. Jeremy and I broke up alot while we were dating.
4. I have had four different settings for my wedding ring. DONT ASK...just know I have really bad luck and you should never take me to Vegas with you.
5. In reference to number 4, I loathe gambling. I dont know if it because I could never win, but if you really want to gamble your money away just give it to me.
6. I have a serious obsession with buy awesome shoes and bags. I mean I really probably need help!
7. My daughter is named after my grandmother Clotile, her name is just Chloe though. And if you ever met my grandmother you would know why...she is absolutely the greatest woman!
8. J and I were told we couldnt have children (due to #1) and were in the late stages of adopting when I found out I was pregos!

So there you go blog world. I have updated. Alot has been going on around the house and with me personally but it is just to much to get into at 10:3o at night, but just know that I will be back. And if you want me back I seriously suggest you leave a comment, because I am getting tired of updating this thing for Wendy and Summer I can call them on the phone~! :)

Clarification: I recieved a comment and re read what I had posted, to clarify the time in which I was pregos was the last one when I was pregnant with Chloe. So calm down people no new little Meeks on the way...yet. :)

Everything Good in Life Comes in Twos

2007-08-02T10:22:00.000-07:00

Almond joys, husband and wife, Reese's Cups, my daughter. She turned two last Saturday and I found myself looking at the clock and thinking "two years ago at this time..." and then staring at her in amazment as she talked to me about something or did something so "big kid" like. It seems like just yesterday I found out I was pregnant and I thought it would never end, and here we are two years later and it has gone by to fast! We went for her two year old check up today and she is a happy, healthy two year old with a very extensive vocabulary. Chloe can say anything. She is so smart and picks up on things so quick. Her daddy and I have to be careful not to say something that should not be repeated by a little mouth. Jeremy makes coffee every morning and this morning I heard over the monitor when she woke up, "I want coffee." Needless to say she didnt get any. She loved to eat, loves to giggle and tickle mommy and daddy. She is such a sweet little girl. She is as strong willed and independent as her momma, but as loving as her daddy. She is shy around people she doesnt know, but loves to hug her friends, especially Casen, who doesnt seem to thrilled with that idea. She is the joy of our life and makes our days full of laughter. There is not a day that goes by that I dont call my mom to report a Chloe "ism". She notice and picks up on everything. I love to watch her learn and play, but more than anything I love it that she still wants me to rock her at night. Here are some pictures of her that we have taken over the last few weeks. That is what you all are really here for anyways! We havent had a party yet, she asked to go see the whales and lions (sea lions) at SeaWorld. We took her a few months ago with her best friend Casen and it was a huge hit. So we will be hitting the park again in celebration of her birthday.

If You Happen to See the Most Beautiful Girl in the World...

2007-07-10T18:27:00.000-07:00

She's mine!!! We recently had pictures taken with the MOST wonderful photographer in the world...Debbie Riggs! She is the sweetest most talented woman and my daughter loved her. Infact she cried when her "friend Debbie" left. I havent been able to see all the pictures yet but I did have to post this one that is off her blog. Can a two year old look sexy? You tell me~ But I have to say, check out those baby blues! I feel sorry for the man that will have to endure those filling with tears one day...including her daddy! If they are all as great as this one then I will be so very pleased. And I have to point out that Debbie will be THE best grandma one day because she knows how to play with little kids and get them to laugh! So if you need a great kid friendly photographer I am sure she would love to hear from you~

To Perfect?

2007-07-05T19:10:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I look at my life and the blessings God has given me and my family and it is overwhelming. You would think most people would look at their wonderful handsome husband, beautiful daughter, gorgeous house, wonderful grandparents, aunts and uncles and fabulous friends, not to mention great jobs and our health and be SO grateful for all these things...which I am...more than I can even talk about without getting emotional. But lately there has been this fear in me. Maybe it is because people all around us are sick with cancer, have lost parents or children so unexpectedly or are struggling just to get by. I look at all of it and I ask God, "why me?" Why am I so blessed, why have I been sheltered from tragedy and most of all...WHEN?!?! When is it going to hit my family and what is it going to be and how am I going to be able to survive it. Loosing jobs or homes are hard, no doubt...but loosing family or my husband or GOD FORBID my child, I dont know how I would survive it. I think I wouldnt be able to breathe. I look at people who are having to endure things like this and I wonder how they are getting up in the morning. And then on the 4th as I am cleaning the house for our party to have our great friends and thier precious children while talking to my mom on the phone its like it hits me...is it to perfect?!? How is it that I am so blessed. So treasured. So protected. It makes me feel even that much more vulnerable.

Dont get me wrong. I am not having a meltdown. This is just one of those posts for blog land. Something that I feel completely neurotic for feeling. Like, "come on Katie, just be grateful!" But I would hope that I am a normal mother and fret about my child and her safety and the freak things that happen everyday. So tonight as I pulled in the garage with my 2 year old singing her ABC's in the back seat, it hit me again and tonight I decieded to write about it. So there you go blog land there is my "deep" post for the year. Next week we will be back to our regualrly scheduled Meeks family updates!

Ch-ch-ch changes

2007-06-11T12:46:00.000-07:00

That is supposed to be from a song that was in Shrek 2, and typical of what is going on in our lives right now! As usual nothing is ever quiet in the Meeks house. Although my post will not be as exciting as my friend Leslie's blog (see here: casademayo.blogspot.com) we do have some new things to report on the home front. First, and the most important is that Chloe started potty training last night. This HUGE leap into adulthood was provoked by the fact that when she has a "number two" she feels compelled within about 30 seconds to take the diaper off her body and leave it on a floor in my house and then come find me to tell me she has "poofed" and taken off her "diafer" (she doesnt say the "d" sound obviously) So yesterday after much grieving over this step 1. because I am fine with diapers a little longer and 2. because she is growing so quickly and 3. because pull ups are nasty, I broke down and went to the grocery store and bought her some pull ups. Last night we made three or four trips to the bathroom and had some minor action there, to which we cheered loudly and got a popsicle. One for her and one for me for holding her on the toilet four times. I guess now I am going to have to break down and go purchase a tiny training potty which I find nausiatingly gross, but she needs to have access to a toilet made for shorties if this will work...so there you go. I will try to capture a picture of her on the toilet it is hilarious! And as you can see below she has learn to roll her eyes at me...no lie!

Second big piece of news is that I will be starting a new job on July 16th. After a very strange turn of events and God leading me to something completely unexpected I have accepted the position of Marketing Director for Christian Homes and Family Services, and have resigned my position at the beloved dealership. It was very hard to do, as all of the people are like family to me...especially my boss. He was very understanding and has made the process easy. So i am looking forward to this new adventure, and am still able to have a day off each week with Chloe, because I will only work four days a week! She is excited about this...

Third big piece of news, this weekend is my 27th birthday and we are headed to San Antonio. My sweet little (big) brother gave me tickets to see Nora Jones...even cooler, it is at the Majestic Theater. So I am really looking forward to some good music, good food, good shopping and good times with family. After living in a large city all my life this city girl misses the hustle and bustle and looks forward to returning home every now and then.

Sorry it has taken me so long to update my blog. I will post some pictures below of Chloe and my parents when they came to take her to the zoo and shopping...you can see she has a love of shoes just like her mom!

Being a Mom

2007-05-14T08:54:00.000-07:00

Last night as I sat on the bed and talked to my very expressive 21 month old laughing so hard at her expressions and being overwhelmed with so much love for her that I could burst, I remembered something my mom said to me all the time as a child, "you wont understand how much I love you or why I the things I do for you until you have children of your own one day." There was some major wisdome in that statement. There is no greater love and at the same time there is no greater pain. Being a mom is the greatest and hardest thing I have ever done. I look at her beautiful face when I rock her at night and wonder how I got so lucky and what I did to derserve this precious wonder that God gave me. But with the amount of love comes the pain that you feel when she gets hurt, or is sad, or you think about her growing up so fast or even terrible things happening and how you would live without her in your world. The job of being a mom, comes with so many emotions. I never knew I could cry for no reason at the thought of her, or feel such frustration when she is choosing to disobey or throw a tantrum, or the fear I feel when she hides under the end table of the couch and I am yelling for her thinking she walked out of the house on her own and has been kidnapped. There is an amazing amount of rational thinking that comes when they are bleeding from a skinned knee and you bandage it and try to make it "not such a big deal", and a glorious amount of irrational panic when they are about to step off a curb and fall and you cant get there fast enough. Being a mom is the best "job" I have ever wanted to do. I hate picking up applesauce thrown on the kitchen floor, or changing smelly diapers, but if those are job duties of being a mom then I will change a million diapers and find "joy" in mopping the floor! Yesterday was my second year of being a mom and although her daddy bought me flowers and made me a card the greatest gift was hearing her little voice on the monitor yesterday morning or laughing at her last night when she told me about the "eecock" (peacock) at the zoo. There was no greater day in my life than the day I met her in July. My mom surely knew what she was talking about. The thing that scares me the most is that everyday she grows and gets closer to being an elementary student who can get picked on, teenager faced with hard choices, a college student faced with even harder choices, a wife learning to take care of her husband, and a mother learning how to handle a love that exceeds your heart and thoughts, and I dont know how I am going to endure all the pain or all the joy that these stages will bring, but I know that I am looking forward to the journey with her and that I pray everyday God gives me the wisdom and strength to know what to say and do.

Jealousy

2007-05-11T12:08:00.000-07:00

I know that seems like a wierd title and that jealousy is normally a very bad thing, but in this case I dont consider it bad. I have a lot of friends (ALOT) (and by friends sometimes I mean people's blogs I read that I dont really know except in a round about way) but, they are having babies. Now dont get me wrong, I am not jealous of the pregnancy or the labor, but I have to say that the day that I met my sweet baby girl was the BEST day of my life, BAR NONE! So as I read or talk to my friends who have little ones set to arrive any day or that have just had little ones, I must say that I am a bit jealous that they are getting to meet their precious little people. I would do it all over again!

One Found Dog!

2007-04-25T10:02:00.000-07:00

Well, I figured you were all biting your nails in hopes we would find Lilly. So I figured I would let you know that she has been recovered. Since I have nothing else to say i figured I would post a picture Chloe Have a great rest of the week!

One Lost Dog!

2007-04-23T11:30:00.000-07:00

This weekend J, C and I ventured to San Antonio so that I could help with my sweet friend Jane's shower. She eight months pregnant and I am jealous how cute she looks that pregnant. Pregnant is cute on anybody but me! ha! Anyways, baby G is due to arrive at the end of May and so we headed down to SA so we could make sure he has all the things he will need to exsist in this world; ie, shopping cart cover! ha! It is funny what we moms have now...we are so spoiled! We came home on Sunday and worked in the yard planting flowers in the front and trimming hedges. We still have the entire back yard to do. The lady that lived in the house before us LOVED potted plants...which is great because it makes it beautiful, but now she has left all of the pots for me to fill. Well after working outside, cleaning out the car, eating dinner with our friends and then getting Chloe to bed J went out to give the dogs water and check on thier food. They have an automatic feeder and so we leave them outside if we know the weather will permit. This saves us money on boarding. Well after we took roll, we had lost two dogs. So J set out searching the neighborhood. We found out that they had spent the night with a single lady who then released them on Saturday morning hoping they would find their way home. Well Oscar...our weenie dog, had made a nice home for himself with two rotwilers (sp.) and a new name "shorty" the nice family had bought him a collar and everything. He was quite happy in the land of the giants and they were sad to see him go, but J returned home with dog number 1. The problem we have now is that we are still missing dog number 2! The bigger problem is that it is Chloes bestest friend and she keeps asking to see "Lally" (lilly) out the window, but there is no Lilly to see! So we are going to scower the neighborhood some more tonight because we have heard rumor she is living around the block from us...probably with two dobermans! ha! So if you live in our area and happen to see a homeless black pug please let her know that we miss her! Attached below is a picture of the escapee and her best buddy!

Our Easter Trip

2007-04-13T10:11:00.000-07:00

I wish I had alot to say, but fortunately life in the Meeks house is pretty uneventful. Just like everyone else in our area we ventured to Fort Worth for the Easter weekend. It was actaully to see some baseball games that my little (big) brother was playing it. We fortunately got to see two of the three before it started to snow. It was so good to see my family and get to see him play. I am so proud of him and the type of man that he is turning out to be. He has a sweet girlfriend and is working hard at school and baseball. Chloe talks all the time about her sweet Uncle and how he "pays ball and frows" she watched the games so good for a 20 month old.

Chloe "enjoyed" spending time with her Mimi and Pop (as long as he didnt touch her), and her sweet Aunt Amy, cousins and Uncle Surgar (that is the name my brother in law came up with for himself) She loves being with my family as long as none of the men try to touch her. She finally warmed up to my dad and gave him a few kisses. One day she will realize how cool her pop is, but for now he is just a big ole man!

We made the trip back home early since we werent going to get to see him play in the snow. I was disappointed that we couldnt get any pictures in the bluebonnets, but seeing as how they had ice on them it wouldnt have looked very springy anyways.

I am glad that we are "supposedly" over winter and moving into spring. We are painting the outside of our house. Most of it is rock, but the wood needed a good sanding and a fresh coat of paint. I changed the colors up a bit and I am really excited about how it is looking. I am ready to plant my spring flowers in all my pots. This is our first spring in this house and it is cool to see some of the stuff that she had planted bloom up; beautiful lillies etc.

I am posting some pictures of our trip to Dallas. I didnt get to many, but here are what we have. Chloe is wearing navy and orange because that is Roadrunner colors.

TWO POSTS!!!

2007-04-01T20:02:00.000-07:00

I know, I know...two posts in one weekend...what is happening over here at the Meek's house. Well, Chloe is enjoying brushing her teeth and so I had to post a few pictures because it is just so sweet. Daddy let her stand on the chair to be level with the sink and she brushed until all the enmael had to be brused off. If her mom was not computer challenged I would put a video in so that you could hear her "spit". It is hilarious because it is just a noise she makes and no spit actually comes out! Hope you like these. My favorite is the one on her tippy toes. So cute!

2007-03-31T13:10:00.000-07:00

Since it has been a while since I last posted, and since my last posts were about something that was completely gross and disgusting, I decided to post again with just a Meeks family update and some new pictures of our very sweet and very big little girl.

Jeremy is back at work like I said in the previous post and there is nothing more to report on that...thank God! I had my fill of butts and bandages. :)

I am back at work just 3 days a week and Chloe is going to school. My schdule is flexible and so I am really loving just being able to have a few days to do some "grown up" stuff. My boss is an awesome guy and so I really enjoy being back working for him

Now about our little one. I cant believe in almost 4 months she will be 2!!! It makes me sad to have seen her grow so quick, but I feel so blessed to have such a happy healthy and outspoken little girl. She is now speaking in sentences which completely blows mine and J's mind. She recently got a new hair cut because her hair just wont stop growing and had this wierd nappy section at the back. The new haircut is working great, but it too, makes her look like more of a little girl. There are two pictures below of the haircut, and as you can see she still sports her signature smile. She wouldnt put the cheese nips down for me to take the picture!

J and I have started Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace. Will feel blessed to have heard about this. It is not the funnest thing we have ever done, but it is teaching us discipline and we are doing really good with it so we are liking it. It is amazing how much we wasted every month. We are doing this more than anything, so that our children see us handle money frugally, and also so that we are prepared for the expense of college. We want to make wise choices with our money because God has blessed us so much!!

Well, sadly, there is nothing to exciting happening here. Just the daily routine of an almost two year old. I do have to brag for a moment and tell you all, that my little brother (who is like 6'1 and not so little) has hit 5 homeruns in the last 5 games and was voted the hitter of the week by his conference. I know this is a big deal to me because I am his sister, but I am just so proud of him!

I hope you enjoy a few pictures and have a great Easter and a great week!

You Have Been So Patient...Thank You

2007-03-07T14:46:00.000-08:00

That is something I say to Chloe on a daily basis when she does good at not yelling at me while I am doing my best to get her whatever it is that she needs; i.e. juice, snack, toy...well that is what I am saying to you all for waiting while the Meeks life calmed down enough for me to blog about it.

Jeremy is successfully recovering from his surgery and we appreciate all the prayers and calls. He was anxious to get back to work and did so last Thursday. He said he is "ramped up" for a big month...sounds like salesman lingo to me. I still have to remind him that there is an open wound on his body and that he needs to take it slow. It seems he is good at taking it slow on things like cleaning the kitchen, helping with laundry or fixing himself a plate, but seems to feel just fine for work or play. Guess that is a man thing.

During the time after surgery my old boss and I discussed me coming back to work JUST 3 days a week. I was planning on putting Chloe in pre school/Mothers day out anyways because I feel like it being just her and I after three months that she needs that interaction and the schedule. Not everyday, all the time...but it seems to work for her to have something that she can "go do." I guess she is like me in that regard. I am liking being back. I also went back last Thursday. I was really excited to wear all my shoes that I havent got to wear in a while. Like I said, only three days a week and I have off Fridays, so that gives me a good long weekend to travel and see family and friends. It also keeps me sain and gives me a little fun money to do some shopping with. This might not work for all families...but it does for ours.

Everyone is healthy again and we feel so blessed to have Jeremy's ordeal behind us! Chloe is silly and cute as can be. We have so much fun playing with her. She loves the zoo and does the cutest fish and giraffe impression. Her elephant impression is a little sketchy but we hope the more she watches her buddy Ethan she will get it. Her hair is getting longer and longer everyday and I have run out of things to do with it. She likes to pick out her bows in the morning and if I dont pull it up she gets mad that there is no bow.

This is life in the Meeks house. Pretty much back to normal. I will post pictures soon.

Emergency Surgery

2007-02-15T15:56:00.000-08:00

Well...humm...where to begin. First let me say sorry to all of you who have been waiting an update on J, but things in our life became very crazy yesterday about 11: 30. Jeremy and I went to the doctor while our very sweet and wonderful friend Wendy watched Chloe. I told her the appointment was at 11:00 and we should be back around 12:00, maybe 12:30. Well I am not sure what time it was that I called her, but it was to let her know that Jeremy would be having emergency surgery and we were at the hospital getting him admitted. Not what we were expecting from this doctors visit.

So to explain what caused this...J apparantly had what is called a fissure. It is like a tear. They can go undetected and heal without people ever knowing they exsist. Well Jeremy didnt know that he had one, until it got infected. Over the past two months this fissure has been infected and collecting "fluid" which created a large abcess. So yesterday they went in because they had to get the infection out of him...quickly!! The doctor was absolutely wonderful and we are still so mad at the other physicians that gave us the runaround. Infact I called one today to inform him that my husband would not be needing the colonoscopy because he has EMERGENCY SURGERY yesterday for an abcess that ANOTHER DOCTOR caught. The amazing thing is that he caught it without having to even hardly touching Jeremy. He was in surgery with Jeremy by 4:00. They cleaned it out and left it open to drain and heal completely. We go back next thurday for a follow up to make sure everything is healing correctly. As "fun" as this sounds J said he is already feeling so much better. He is a little uncomfortable because of the surgery but finally has relief from the other pain after 2 months! I am just so angry that we trust our physicians to take care of us and this is what they do. Jeremy said I was rude to them today on the phone and I said I was sorry...he said he was glad I was. This could have been so much worse if the abcess ruptured!! I am so thankful to this doctor for acting so quickly and took such good care of us, especially Jeremy. We also appreciate all your thoughts a prayers and feel so glad that J is on a road to recovery! Chloe thinks it is funny to point to the bandages and say "diaper...oooh...bobo" So in Chloe's mind Jeremy is wearing a diaper...haha! I guess I get to change and dress two babies these next two weeks...oh yeah...he has to be out of work ATLEAST a week. I need help keeping him down, as if the hole in his hind in isnt enough.

Again thank you to all of our friends that have called and checked on us, but especially to Brad and Summer, Scott and Wendy and Mark...we love you all so much. I told Jeremy I have alot of friends, but we have some awesome families with all of these people!! THANKS YOU GUYS!!

Wash...Sanctified...Justified

2007-02-12T15:37:00.000-08:00

I normally use this blog forum to update on our family news and events but today I hope this makes someone reading this feel as blessed as I do to be loved by Jesus. Yesterday at church our preacher preached on Corinthians 6:1-11. It was about conflict in the church. But what I loved most is the last part of this scripture where Paul lists all people that wont "judge the world" and he says, "and some of you were these people but you have been washed, sanctified and justified" As I sat there reading that it said some of the worst sins or things that you could do or be, but no matter what Jesus loved us so much that He forgave it all by just believing in Him. I love that feeling to know that no matter the past we are forgiven by Him. What an unconditional love. I love the words washed, sanctified and justified. To be washed and clean is such an awesome thing, but he doesnt stop there we are also sanctified and justified. No matter the sin He has forgiven us and we are WASHED!!

Family Update: Wifey got involved in our little health issue today and after about 20 minutes on the phone and the help of a wonderful family friend I had J scheduled for a visit with a colon and rectal specialist on Wednesday. He specializes in this sort of problem. Or as the doctor put it..."in rectuns" (who would want to specialize in that? I mean really!) But he will do a better job diagnosing the issue because they are fairly sure it has nothing to do with his colon. This is great news because they also told us that they dont believe that we have anything serious to worry about and listed some possiblities of what it might be. Apparantly this is very common in men J's age who have a profession where they sit alot, which he does...so although I was mad at our General Practioner who will remain nameless, but will no longer be our doctor...I was glad to have some headway in this issue. As a mommy I sometimes have to take care of ALL the chicks in this house. Men tend to want to take a doctors answer for truth and I just dont believe that and will ask more questions until I get the results I want....probably part of the momma bear in me. So we are not having to wait the two weeks for the unneeded colonoscopy and will hopefully have some good news on wednesday from the "butt specialist" himself...Pray that we have ANSWERS not more runaround. We can deal with whatever IT is, we just want to know what IT is!!

So in the word of Chloe, who thinks everyone is named after our dog Toby..."Bye Bye Tofee"

Sorry It Has Been So Long

2007-02-07T11:37:00.000-08:00

I know yall are waiting an update on Jeremy and I am so sorry I have not been able to give you one. Chloe and I spent some time visiting my parents and then have been busy trying to get back into the swing of things... so here it is...
J went to see the doctor and they didnt think it was anything serious and perscribed him some medication, it never got any better. So yesterday he want back and they have scheduled him for a colonoscopy within the next ten days. They are worried whatever the problem is could be further up than they originally thought since none of the symptoms have gotten any better. Sorry for the nice details but we could still use your prayers. It is so hard for me not to worry that it is something more serious than what they are telling us. J feels fine and is just very uncomfortable because of the pain. From the exam they said they feel no tumors and because of the symptoms dont feel that it has to do any with his colon. So there it is. Thanks for all your concern, Jeremy and I appreciate it so much.

As for our busy litttle girl she is exploring a world on independence as well as seeing how temper tantrums and hitting work out for her. Not well!!! I am trying to learn how to discipline those issues as best as I can and I just feel like I am not doing it right. Sweetness, sternness, sadness no emotion works...so we will forge on with time out and small swats and see if we can turn sassy to sweet. Sometimes I wish I could freeze time and keep her the way she is right after she gets out of bed...crazy hair, kisses and hugs...I just love how sweet she is when she first wakes up.

Life feels heavy right now and I just try to keep in perspective how blessed I truly am. I dont know why it is that somedays you wake up with a heavy heart...Atleast I have that precious face to look at everyday.

All I Need is 10 Hours and Prayer

2007-01-23T09:55:00.000-08:00

Well, after a month and a half of being at home I am taking on a project for the company I worked for. It only is about 10 hours a week and mainly takes place every quarter or so. I was thrilled to get the call because it allows me to do something that I enjoy, keeps me slightly invloved in the work force and will bring in a little extra income for more house updating and stuff like that.

The Meeks family could really use your prayers for some health issues. Jeremy has struggled over the past month with some health concerns that dont need to be detailed on our blog, but tommorrow he goes to a specialist that we have waited a month to get into. We hope that it is nothing big and just what the doctor thinks it is. I know both of us try not to think the worst, but sometimes our brains wander and we cant help it. Keep Jeremy in your prayers as he is nervous about the test and the results.

Since I have been at home more, I have found that my brain has more time to wander. Maybe it is being a woman, or all the bad things that you see on T.V. or the sadness you see in daily life but I am having a hard time sleeping at all. I get about three to four hours a night and that is dream or nightmare filled. It isnt easy on me and I know the tossing and turning is hard on J. I have taken some sleeping pills but that make it hard to function the next day because I feel drugged and still I dream all night long. This has been about four weeks now and I am just ready for relief but have no answer. I pray and talk to J about it but nothing seems to help slow my brain or my body. No matter how tired I am at the end of the day when I lay down it is like my eyes are glued open. It just sucks!

There is not a whole lot of news with Chloe. She enjoys wearing pig tails, eating "naaaacksss", saying the word "nanee" (nasty) when I change her diapers,talking on the phone, reading books, playing with "Laally" (Lilly) running to daddy when he gets home from work, unloading the pan drawers in the kitchen, the movie Singing in the Rain and being at home with mommy.
She does not like napping, although that is getting better, mushrooms, daddy leaving for work, being strapped in her car seat. She was able to get the straps off her shoulders which she liked but after watching the video of Kyle David Miller mommy put a fix on that problem. Her hat she has to wear when it is cold, or naptime...did I mention that already.

Well I better post a few pictures to keep all three of you happy. :) Chloe wants her boyfriends to know she appreciated all the comments on her last blog, she gets more that I do. Now off to get some of the 10 hours of work done! :)

Chloes Post

2007-01-14T10:24:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone, Chloe here. I was reading mom's post and thought they were boring so mom told me that I could post this blog because I have such a cute personality right now. I always have plenty to say to mom and make her laugh all the time. Mommy tells me that I have gotten so big, to fast. I dont know what that means. I like being big and I can do pretty much anything all by myself, even though my mom doesnt think that I can and always tries to help me. Last week I got to play twice with some friends. First was my friend Ethan.We had so much. Mommy and Daddy went to eat with his mommy and daddy and we got to eat mac and cheese one of my favorites and play with Ethan's new Christmas toys...a John Deere Tractor and his Elmo workbench. I really liked to look through those safety goggles. Then mommy and daddy were playing a game and so Ethan and I got to play with dominos. It was fun putting them in and out of the box. It was ALOT of fun and I cant wait to play with him again. Then last night it was really really cold in Abilene and we had been inside all day and were all really bored so we decided to go eat with my other friend Casen at my favorite place Wingstop, then he came to play with me at my house. First we played with the Learn and Groove and then Casen pushed me around on Mater the Tow Truck. It seems like I only have boyfriends, but none of mommy and daddies friends have little girls for me to play with but its ok because I love all my boy friends.
I really like mommy being at home and we have alot of fun...except at naptime. She keeps trying to make me sleep in my room, but she has a much nicer bed and I only like to nap in her room so sometimes I have to remind her that I am boss. She doesnt like that very much but I am getting her under control. Well I thought I would have mommy post some pictures of me and my friends. And for those friends I havent met yet that mommy talks about come and visit, like, Hudson! Hope everyone has a great week and hopefully the ice will melt outside so we can go out in play with out my big jacket and hat on. And yes...that is how I smile...:)

Just Another Update...With Pictures!

2007-01-09T13:37:00.000-08:00

Wow how life has changed over the past month. It has been one month exactly since my last day at "work" and things seem still so surreal and different to me. As I sit here typing this I no longer hear the hustle and bustle of the sales floor, now I hear my 17 month old saying "mine" as if to explain to me that the computer keybored is hers. I have gone from suits, hose and heels to sweats, jeans and tenny (thats for you Summer) shoes. My cell phone that used to ring constantly with inventory or sales now only rings about once a day when I am out of the house and J is looking for me. The only inventory I am concerned with is that of our refrigerator and for the first time ever I ventured to Wal -Mart during the middle of the week this week. FYI: Monday at 9:30 am is the time to go to Wal-Mart. I have heard a myriad of opinions on "the way I seem to be now" Old co workers have told me I dont seem happy, true friends tell me I have a glow and my husband says I seem to have a peace about me. God tells me that beyond a shadow of a doubt that I am happy, at peace and believe that I am doing the most important job out there. I realized about 6 months ago that nothing I was doing would matter if in 3 years I looked up and my child didnt know me, my husband and I never communicated, and all I had to show for it was more money. I know, for me, that God put that there for a reason. He doesnt do that for everyone, because this isnt always the right choice for everyone, but it was for me. We have adjusted to the daily routines, Chloe is finally back to napping good and sleeping well at night and God has answered my biggest concern: Contentment. It isnt always easy to stay busy at this stage in the game, but the house is spotless, the laundry is done and there is always a meal on the table. Life at the Meeks house is going pretty well. She woke up this morning with a croupe cough and all I kept thinking was, "I am glad she doesnt have to go anywhere today" It is a wonderful feeling to not feel rushed. J pointed out last night that she is ok with him leaving for work and that she never was with me and that she is listening better. Her daycare did a wonderful job and the reality is that one day I will have to send her out into the big world of kindergarten, but for now she is able to be at home with me and learn from me...hopefully I am setting the right example. I am posting a few of my favorite pics from Hawaii finally and I hope you enjoy them...notice the one where she wont put her feet in the sand, it was so funny. She never did warm up to sand! Just like her mom!

A Peace That Passes ALL Understanding...

2007-01-02T10:54:00.000-08:00

I have to keep reminding myself that this is what God promises to give us as His children. Do you think He worries like Mommies do? I am convinced that because I worked in the beginning and never got to fully enjoy all the wonderful things about motherhood that I also prohibited myself from feeling some of the strongest feelings of fear and anxiety ever...let me explain. Last night it is 1:30 in the morning and I am laying there awake thinking and thinking and thinking. My brain wont rest and my chest is tight from being so anxious. I dont know what it is I can handle a high pressure job in the "real world" but this motherhood thing throws me completely for a loop. I worry constantly that she will get hurt, or what would I do if something EVER happened to her, or when I hear stories about the woman who let her child accidentally wander on to the highway, I think how easily she opened the back door and let the dogs in yesterday. I used to interview people at my old job and I would ask them how they thought they would handle the "stress and pressure" of sales as well as the fast paced work day. Then I would begin to describe some of the duties and details of the job. If you were to ask me those same questions about motherhood I dont know how I would answer. I constantly look at the budget. I dont want to spend ANY money because now that I am not working you know that a car will break down or I will go to the hospital or something bizzare like the AC will stop working at our house will happen. This new job as caused me to be a worrier. I am anxious and all I can do is pray...everyday...pray that God continues to give me peace, bless J's business, bless our finances, protect my angel with His angels, and try to remember that if He cares so much for the sparrow that surley He cares this much for me. Working moms have it hard, no doubt, there is stress and a business that I cant describe. But a stay at home mommy has it hard to because she worries about her job that she puts her heart into everyday. She worries about that little person that she is supposed to teach right from wrong, that when she says a bad word on accident after spilling a whole bowl of cherrios that the childs first word will be that bad word. There is a book out call the "Mommy Wars" I know from expierence that neither one of these women have it easy. No one is better than the other because they both are trying so hard to love and do what it best for that child. Last night as I lay there thinking and thinking, I just couldnt help but ask God again for that peace that passes all understanding.

At Wits End

2006-12-31T12:12:00.000-08:00

Here I sit on a lovely Sunday afternoon and what do I get to hear...the screaming of my angry child coming from the other room. She is not sad, she is flat out mad!!! M A D...mad! What, you ask, might cause this sweet little girl to be so angry at the world? NAPTIME!!! Lord, please help us all when nap time approaches at the Meeks house. It has been almost a month since I started staying at home and most of the time I find myself loving it, except at naptime. You see...we were on a great schedule, a short morning nap and a longer afternoon nap. It was working great for us. Then we were set to go on a trip to Hawaii with my mom and dad and whole family for their thirty fifth wedding anniversiary. All in all, the trip was great but the flights were long and Chloe got very used to her new schedule of short naps and alot of fun and entertainment provided by her cousins. This has posed a problem ever since we got back. She doesnt want to nap now, she wants to play all day long. Not that I dont love playing with her, but you see, after she has been awake all day long she because somewhat of a whiney butt which is not fun for Daddy when he gets home. So we are fighting the good fight and it seems as of right now her room has gotten quiet. Who knows though she could be digging a hole out of her bed or scaling her way out. I asked God to give her J's teeth and hair but I apparantly forgot to ask for his temperment and she got blessed with my "fight".

Dear God...if it isnt to late can her give her her daddies temperment...sorry I forgot to ask earlier.

And to my mom and dad, I apologize ten times over for the times that I put you through this...Bless you for not beating me.

So any suggestions on this nap thing is greatly appreciated but for now I will fight the good fight.
I will post pictures and blog about our trip but for now I have to get some stuff done while she actually is napping.

Meeks Update

2006-12-14T08:57:00.000-08:00

Ok I just typed this whole blog and blogger ate it and so I have to retype evrything...sometimes I hate blogger.

Well it is official I am a stay at home mommy. Saturday was my last day that the office and it was bittersweet. Those guys are like my family and I will miss them all very much. I cried alot and Jeremy I think was a little worried that I was going to not actually leave but I know that I am making the right decision. It has been a great week. Chloe and I have both adjusted great to being at home together. We have talked ALOT about the Christmas presents under the tree because they seem to make her worry a whole lot. We have also read alot of books and I have spent time basically reclaming me house. I am loving having enough time to actually cook meals and put laundry up where it goes. I have loved working and I know that God has had a perfect plan in mind. Had I not worked I am not sure that I would appreciate the time I am able to spend doing some of the "mommy" things that I always did in such a rush and so hurridly. Having time to enjoy her talking to me or "helping" me do laundry is so much fun. God has truly blessed me with a wonderful husband and security so that I can have the gift of staying at home. He has answered numerous prayers to give me a peace and an understanding about my decision and He contimues to provide me with small reassurances that let me know that He is in control and I have made the right decision. To say it is not an adjustment in an understatment but I am doing better than I thought I would. So here I am...Chloe is napping and I am blogging. I truly can enjoy not having to hurry, rush or feel pressure and just getting to enjoy such a precious time for my family. Here are some pictures of thanksgiving long overdue. I had 20 people at the new house and loved it. I cooked and everyone visited and ate. The reason I loved this house when we bought it was because I could picture it filled with family and it was and I loved it! So enjoy the pictures... Notice the nice scab on our forehead. That came from trying to do everything by ourself...ahhh! 16 months and so busy!

Pap Smears and Lollipops...They Dont Go Together

2006-12-02T06:22:00.000-08:00

Am I the worst blogger ever? Well it is honestly because I have had no time, BUT...that is all about to change. As of December 15th I am officially a stay at home mom. This decision came after alot of prayer and to be perfectly honest, a huge stirring in my heart to do this. Am I nervous? YES!!! I have never not worked. I have never stayed at home for longer than a 6 week period of maternity leave and even during that I continued to work. So it will be a huge adjustment for me. But I believe and have faith that because God has lead me to do this that he will also help me find the patience, contentment, sainness and ability to do this. I believe beyond a shadow of a doubt that this will be the hardest job that I have ever had, but the most rewarding. I have my moments of stress when I think about how our finances are about to change, or that I wont have anywhere to get dressed up to go and thinking of all my nice work clothes hanging there collecting dust makes me wonder what I am doing. Also when I go to work and realize how good I am at what I do it also scares me a little. No one will give me praise at home for doing things well, and it is definately a thankless job! So there it is I am staying at home and trying my hand at this mom thing...

Now enough of that grown up stuff, here is a cute Chloe antic for you. Mind you on both of these occassions I was not so amused and light hearted about the events that took place.

About three weeks ago, it was time for my lovely annual ladies check up. You know the one I am talking about girls...feet in stir ups! Need I say more. Well seeing that I had no other option I took Chloe with me. She walked proudly down the hallway and into the Doctors with mommy. Acting like such a big girl she ate some cheese nips, drank some juice and played on the floor while I waited to be tortured. I thought to myslef, this should go pretty smooth, look how good she is being. This, my friends, is called jinxing yourself. They called my name we went into the office, she sat and listened while the Doctor asked me how everything has been and proceeded to talk to the nurse who was handing her cheese nips in order to make friends. At the very moment the "torture chair" flipped me into the air she decided to find a sucker that I had stashed away in my purse. Being in somewhat of an "al fresco" situation I told her she would have to wait until mommy was done. I really meant to say when the freaking docotr gets done violating me then I can give you a lolli pop. At that moment my sweet child became possed. Bow was torn out of hair, body flailed wildley about on the floor, then going to limp noodle state when the nurse touched her, screaming blood curlding screams as though she was the one getting a pap smear. Finally, after all was handled my the good ole docotor, who by the way was not distracted in the least bit by her tantrum, finished. He let me down, to unwrap the lolli pop , as to which all temper tantrums ceased and she said, "taint tou mommy"! Oh the shame and embarrassment...and I am not talking about the pap smear!

Chloe antic two..."The Curse of Cool Cuts"...COMING SOON!

SAY CHEESE!

2006-10-22T19:01:00.000-07:00

I have some very exciting news...NO I AM NOT PREGNANT! BUT... DRUM ROLL PLEASE... We finally got another camera. We were going to go to Boo at the Zoo and so I forced Jeremy to go buy one. We ended up not going because it was really windy and chilly and Chloe is getting over a sinus infection, but we did take some pictures and so I thought I would post them .Maybe the new blog "eye candy" will bring "ALL" my readers back. One more quick thing before I sign off...I could really use your prayers the next couple weeks making a big decision for Jeremy Chloe and I. So those who dont mind, just ask that God gives me peace, wisdom and guidance regarding the decision I need to make. Now some who have not seen her in a while she has alot of teeth and is cuter than ever,even though she looks like a raga muffin in these...long day of playing. Please ignore me...I couldn figure out how to delete that stupid picture! Sometimes I hate blogger.

Nuthin Much to Say

2006-10-08T17:36:00.000-07:00

OK...I KNOW I KNOW, I am terrible at keeping up this blogging thing. I was never able to keep a diary as a kid and this is the closest thing to a journal that I have had as an adult so you can see how I am at this. But I figured I would give you a Meeks update to satisfy the curiosity I am sure you all have for our boring lives...

We moved in to the new house and just finished painting this week...well we didnt actually finish the painters we hired finished. It looks so much better without all the tacky wall paper that she had everywhere, and have I mentioned it didnt even coordinate. Anyways, it looks so good and fresh now and Chloe's room turned out just like I wanted.

On the kid frontier she is getting bigger and bigger everyday. She say alot of different words and now she can say, "there she is" As in "Where's Chloe?" "OH! There she is" It is really cute because she covers her face and everything. We know where our nose and belly button are and tonight at dinner her friend Ethan taught her how to blink her eyes. THANKS ETHAN!! I just cant believe I have a little girl. She is not a baby anymore. She does and acts and says things just like a little girl. It has happened so quick~ I asked Jeremy the other day when we could have another one...he laughed and said he needed a little more time. So I guess I will be patient. But as I watch her grow so quickly it makes me miss that baby stage. Where did it go. Those bottles and carriers and little onesies I spent so much time picking out have all been packed away or thrown away (depending on the level of grossness) and they wait for the next tiny one that we bring home one day. Jeremy is right, it is to soon now, but I look forward to that day again. But until then I get to soak up this little wonder who laughs and claps and giggles (and bites and pinches if she is mad) but everyday is a fun new adventure with her. I still am waiting patiently to buy a new camera because ours is lost. Supposedly J won some money on some contest and he said I could use it to buy a really good camera and some other stuff I have wanted for a while. I am getting tired of waiting.

So until next time~ And hopefully I will have a camera by then...

Anyone Still Out There

2006-08-25T14:49:00.000-07:00

Since I have devoloped the new habit of only posting every 20 days or so, i am not even sure that I still have any readers...not that there were many before. BUT, if in fact I still have some loyal bloggers out there, then this post is for you....

Meeks Family Update... Alot of this information is privledged and has not even been shared with the closet of family so here it goes... As most of you know we are in the process of selling our home. It is a lovely home with 1887 square feet built in 2004. We have loved it but felt like because of some other things we could use and now afford more space. We have purchased a gorgeous 3400 square foot home built in 1948. It is beautiful and after we spent a little money fixing the stupidity of the previous owners I absolutely love it. I am so excited to offically move in. Chloe's room got a make over and is so precious if I do say so myself. It is to much to explain so I will post pictures someday! :)

Chloe is almost 13 months old and she is finally starting to sprout some teeth. She has had her two bottom teeth for a while, and recently got her two eye teeth. Thats cute...vampire baby! But this morning we noticed that she is now getting the two front teeth. Thank God. She is the best eater and wants nothing to do with baby food anymore...only table food. She has an unreal obsession for french fries and is always dying of thirst if I have a cup with a straw...SONIC BABY. What can I say it is inbred in her. She has graduated from her baby class and is now in the big kid class. There is only five of them and they play all day. They have group time where they learn a lesson everday. Right now it is about washing your hands. It is so cute. Needless to say she is not washing her hands yet. But it is never to early to learn cleanliness...

So this is why I dont update. I have nothing exciting to say. But for those of you who are loyal thank you!

Where to Begin

2006-07-07T13:48:00.000-07:00

This post is done especially for Lauren Becera who requested an update. First let me say, I know I have been a terrible blogger, but in my defense life has never been so crazy...so lets begin:

I began my "new title" at my new job and I am loving it...It is demanding, it is hard, but it is a blast! It is the hardest job I have ever loved. And my first two weeks went awesome and I sold 11.5 cars. So all the new responsibilty has paid off and I am very happy here at this big old car lot. I went to OKC for some training and it was AWESOME! I love the town and in trying to convince J to move there, we decided to make another big decison in our life...Im pregnant again! JUST KIDDING! That would not be funny....but we have put our house on the market and are in the process of buying a bigger home to make more room for our precious little girl and her stuff! We are really excited about it...it is a 2900 square foot home that was built in 1947. It is so beautiful and charming with the most gorgeous yard I have ever seen. It has beautiful trees and wood floors with double ovens. There are a few things that need to be done to update it and make it fit us, but for us it is perfect and we are so excited!

Now as for the little princess, alot has happened since I have updated...we are definately devopling our vocabulary with word such as "no", "Hi"(along with a really cute wave), "Bye" followed by another cute wave, "mom" (that is accompanied with a look that lets me know she needs something), "daddy" this is followed with and eye bat to get what she wants and "uh-oh" that one is precious and she drops stuff on purpose just to say it and smile. She continues to get bigger and bigger and more into stuff. last weekend while I was at work I recieved a call from J that he needed to discuss something serious...he then proceeded to tell me he was on his way to the emergency room because Chloe had shaken a pill bottle open and had proceeded to eat a Tylenol PM! Well needless to say I drove like a bat out of hell to get there...they told us one wasnt going to hurt her and thankfully she was ok! Time to child proof! I felt so sorry for J because he was crushed...but that girl can get into anything!!! She is walking all around the house attached to walls or furniture and if I am close she will walk holding my hand or take two or three steps by herself. She isnt falling, but she doesnt trust herself so she ends up squatting and then going to a crawl. It is quicker anyways! She turns one in just 21 days and i cannot believe how fast it has gone. I am a terrible mom and havent taken any recent pictures, but her one year old pics are scheduled for next week and I will post those...for now though you will have to live with out any pictures.

As crazy as life has been it seems as though this post was incredibly boring...sorry Lauren, but I hope you enjoy!

Webster Says...

2006-05-23T10:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was reminded that my new job will require me to be more subservient. Who would have thought the car business can teach you Christian traits. But infact it is true! As I continue to try to figure out the "business world" I am forever reminded that those things that God ask us to be will help us out in our career's as well. So I begin to wonder...Really wonder...What subservient meant. Well my dad gave me the best definition, like a soldier to his country, humble, willing to serve, without ego. Wow! That is what God asks me to be in every aspect of my life, as a mom, as a wife, as a child, as an employee, as a Christian and a child of God. So when I read what Webster had to say, "a servant in an inferior position" I begin to think he didn't have it all figured out. Subservient has a negative sound to it, but I don't think it is. I think it is an honor to serve people and a great characteristic to be humble. So maybe if I would have listened better as a child, and listened...Really listen to what the be attitudes say, I would be better off. Now if I could just get that patience thing down...But for now I will work on being subservient in every aspect of my life, from the car business to the mommy business.

There is a Season

2006-05-17T12:35:00.000-07:00

There is a season and apparantly my season right now is insanity. Things are crazy...well mainly work is crazy. There actually is a season in my life and it is the season of change and growth. I continue to love the company that I work for, and by the grace of God I continue to grow and advance. All of this is wonderful and I couldnt ask for anything more. Infact I could ask for something a little less...stress. There are times in my life when I have to step back and remind myself of who is in control, and that no matter what time works out the kinks in the plan. The hardest part is that when you work for a large company and you advance and others dont, you always have some oppositiong. But it is like my boss said to me this morning, anything worth something will probably require a little fight. And that is true and good advice. She doesnt mean that I should go beat everyone up, but it means that I have to stand strong that I deserve this, that I have earned it and that I am ready for the next challenge. Someone always thinks they can do a job better than some one else. Not to brag on myself, but sometimes I am pretty sure that I should have a big S stamped on my chest for the amount of stuff that I do around this place. But I love it! I love being needed, I love being driven, and I love be respected by the people who matter. I feel like after a rough time leaving my last job under the circumstances in which I left. I thought that maybe the idea of loving your job was just a nice idea. But after a year and a half here, I realize that is not the case. I feel like I have found my place. Now if I could just handle the stress a little better than I do. Is it wrong that I want to claw some peoples eyes out...JK! When things get overwhelming I can just look at this sweet face and be reminded how lucky I am and what I have waiting for me at home.

By the way...on a Chloe note...she has started wearing sunglasses and thinks it is the most fabulous thing ever. She never touches them and then pucker her lips. She looks like a true diva and I just want to eat her up. These pictures are from this past weekend, but I will get one in the sunglasses and post so everyone can see my little diva.

Something I am Tired Of

2006-05-12T06:25:00.000-07:00

I am exhausted. My body is having a hard time gearing up and getting going in the morning, and I need a boost of energy. Having a job, a nine month old, and a husband takes its toll on a mommy. But more than just the day to day there is one in particular thing I am tired of, and since I have refrained from using my blog to gripe and complain since I had Chloe, well the time has come. If you are not really in the mood to hearing me complain I suggest you visit this website, thefuguas.org, they have a really cute video of the sweetest little boy you have ever seen...but today my blog is for griping.

So here it goes...just because someone doesnt come out and say it a comment like this means the same thing..."I would just NEVER put my child in day care." Ok now to all stay at home moms, let me first say, my hat is off to you! You have a very hard job and it is even harder that you are alone all day. So let me say I applaud you for your strength. With that said, as a working mom, I am not taking the easy road. Infact, I believe at times I choose the harder road. To have everyone dressed, packed and out the door by 7:45 takes alot, and to do it everyday takes even more. Then to come home at night and play, cook dinner, bathe, feed, and put to bed everyone at a decent hour can really take its toll. When people (mostly women) say to me, I would never...I want to ask, what they heck is so wrong with it. My child loves "school". She is happy, well adjusted, socially "mature", she has learned to share, crawl, talk, and laugh. She does not sit and stare into an oblivion, barf all the time, cry profusly, or look like an unhappy. My child has not been in any way damaged by day care. Some people dont understand what my job gives me. Most people do a job because they have to, not because they want to. I WANT TO. I LOVE TO. I love my job, not more than my baby, but I love my job. So people stop giving me your opinion on how I have it easy, or how I am a "bad mom" because I think some day cares are ok. It is not like I leave her in a card board box in the utility room all day. She has wonderful care givers. So there is my gripe. I feel a little better. I actually feel a little more rejuvinated. Thanks blog land for letting me vent.

Never In All My Life

2006-05-11T07:20:00.000-07:00

Last Friday I left on a business trip. This trip was supposed to part "pleasure" part "business"...it turned out to be all WORK and NO PLAY. But that wasnt the worst part. Never in all my life would I have thought that I could miss two people so much. I could not wait to get home and see my sweet baby and wonderful husband. It was the hardest few days ever. When I came back to town all I wanted to do was hold and rock her, but unfortunately she doesnt do that anymore, because now she is crawling over everything and walking along walls. It was so hard to not be with her. As a general rule, I dont have to go out of town for my job. This was an unusual event. But it did help me realize I would never want a job where I traveled all the time. My family is the most wonderful precious thing in my life, and it just takes a few days of not having them to realize how I take them for granted. J and Chloes face never looked sweeter. So needless to say I am so glad to be home and that I have the best family there ever was. When I got back there was a new trick we have...she crawls over to the window at the front of the house, stands up and watches the cars, or birdies or whatever else might happen by that window. It is her new favorite place. Below you can see a picture of her enjoying her new favorite place. Her bottom looks big, but I swear it is just the diaper.

The "AMEN" guy

2006-04-24T13:46:00.000-07:00

I, for most of my childhood that I can remember, grew up in a very large baptist church in Houston. And when I say large, what I really mean is huge. There were thousands of members, so to be really well known you had to be somewhat famous. There was a particular gentleman and I never acutally saw what he looked like, I just remember calling him the "amen" guy. He was the one, who after every moving thing the preacher said would say "amen", but he didnt actually say amen, he said "MMEEEN" in a real deep low voice, but loud enough that the whole entire sancutary could hear it even up in the balcony. Now what spurred me to tell you this story is that this weekend we went and visited J's parents at their church they had a visiting preacher who got very "fired up" about his preaching and who preached for about an hour and a half, but this time during the service the "Amen" guy was actually my child. She was completely enthralled with this guy and everytime he would look in our direction she would "wave" at him and squeal, as if to say "preach on brother!" It actually became quite funny and prompted me to get up and leave in the middle of the very long sermon. Oh brother. I guess even though she has been raised in the Church of Christ the southern gospel seeped in through my genes. :) Here is a few pictures to make you smile for the week.

All Girl

2006-04-03T10:47:00.000-07:00

Sorry it has been few and far between since my last posts. Nothing exciting is happening except life just going on. Always busy. Anyways, this weekend we were commissioned to sing at a funeral for a dear friend of ours father. The songs were beautiful but difficult. Saturday afternoon we had to make a trip to the widows home, so I dressed Chloe up in a little Ralph Lauren green dress, with a big pink bow, braclet, earrings and little white sandals. Jeremy looked at her and said, "Oh my gosh, she is ALL girl." So it is official she IS all girl. She leaves her bow perfectly in place and holds her wrist just so, so you can see her braclet. She likes to squeal and smile at it, but never tries to pull it off. It is to funny when she is so dressed up because she just thinks she is too cute. She turned 8 months old on teh 28th of March and I cant believe how big she is.

Here is our funny Chloe story for the week:
I was changing a diaper ( a messy one) and she was holding a toy in her hand. This keeps her occupied and from crawling or rolling away. Well she dropped the toy behind her just as I pulled the soiled diaper open. The "grossness" was stuck on her tushie and I was about to wipe it off when she decided to pull herself into a head stand position and not let me bend her body. So there I am, holding a stiff baby, with a poopie hanging from her who is trying to stand on her head. At this point I am worried about two things...my carpet because if the poop drops and rolls off the changing pad from up above, and my childs neck which she is wanting to stand on. So in order to save both I do the only thing I can think to do, pull her up by her feet so that she will relax her body. Well that didnt work, it only made her start laughing hysterically and trying harder to reach her toy, like this is some new game we play. I am laughing so hard I can hardly see, but still can smell the other problem at hand. Finally, she decided she has had enough hanging upside down and lets me lay her back on the changing pad (which is on the floor by the way) and finish the diaper change before to much mess took place. So what would you have done?

I have posted pictures and want to point out the playgirl pose in her jammies, and her sharing her passy with daddy. Her new fun thing is to share the passy and then take it back and say ma, which we are pretty sure is MINE, especially since she yells it to a little girl at daycare who tries to steal her passy. Hope you enjoy the pictures...have a great week.

Only 7 More Days

2006-03-21T14:34:00.000-08:00

It is only seven more days until my sweet peanut turns 8 months old. I really can hardly believe it. Time flies. Before I know it she will be a teenager. She is working hard on developing all of her new skills. Crawling is now up to just moving the knees forward instead of backward, which is making us mad that we are constantly moving away from mom when we are trying to move toward her. J likes to call her "extreme baby" because she likes to sat things on the floor so that she has to bend over and pick them up. This allows her to hang suspended from her bouncer seat. This seat that has provided many hours of rest for little girl will now be donated to the super weenie dog Oscar, who loves to lay in it and bark until we turn the vibration on. So congrtats to Oscar on the new bed. It has been a while since I posted on our "not so busy" super busy life. It seems like nothing new is happening, just the same busy schedule that keeps us wondering where the time goes. Chloe is now saying momma and dada and papa. They are sweet little words and I look forward to big sentences that are soon to come. She is a joy to watch everyday for us. She makes us laugh all the time, and her need to be UP and around all the "action" at our house it hilarious. It makes bed time quite the struggle when you think that you are being left out of everything so you wont go to bed without crying yourself to sleep. Wow, I am such a bad mommy. She really is ok people...I promise. We had family pictures taken the other day and they turned out really good. You can go to lcphotography.blogspot.com and see a few of them if you would like. So there really is no news in our boring little lives.

Seven Months and Counting

2006-03-02T09:10:00.000-08:00

We have some big news going on here in our town...get ready...its huge...the new free standing Chick-fila opened today. There were some morons who sat outside for twenty four hours to win free chick fila for a year. I mean really people...is the chicken that good? Yesterday I went to the ribbon cutting with a friend who is a member of the chamber. As they were introducing the manager and his wife, they also introduced their new nine week old baby. So tiny, so sweet, SO QUIET! I had to laugh a little thinking about just seven months ago when I had this quiet, tiny little girl who didnt make a peep. And then I thought about my conversation this morning with my SEVEN MONTH OLD. As she screamed at me with a grin, I asked her if she liked her outfit she was wearing (I loved it...thanks mimi) she squealed at me again. Then when I told her no because she wants to get out of her bouncer seat (toy about to be retired) she looked at me and raised her eyebrows and did it again, as if to say...what are you gonna do about it lady! I laughed (out loud this time) and thought about that little baby again at chick fila. Here I sit 7 months later, with a child who has her own opinion about almost everything. A child who thinks she needs to yell at her doggies and a child who has developed such a precious personality. I miss that little quiet baby, but I am glad she is so enthusiatic about her life. I have decided to post some pictures to remind everyone of what she started out like and where we are now. I promise I did not return the old baby for a new one, her hair just went from black to light brown. So enjoy the update in the Meeks life, as we try to figure out how to deal with our new problems of wanting to crawl, wanting out of our bouncer seat all the time and needing to go ALL THE TIME. She is also enjoying the warm days playing outside (as well as Oscar the super weiner dog) and her new favorite toy...the remote control.

This is Chloe on the day we came home from the hospital and at just a few weeks old...!

This is Chloe NOW... Happy 7 Months Little Princess! You are the most precious gift God has ever given us. We love you and your little personality more than you will ever know. Mimi and Pop used to tell me that I would understand when I had one of my own...they were right! I could stand and stare at you for hours and somehow you are growing up right before my eyes. You have ALMOST spent as much time outside, as you did inside mommies tummy. i love you little peanut!

On the Lighter Side

2006-02-21T18:24:00.000-08:00

Ok, after my little rampage yesterday I decided to post some lighter news as well as some pictures. Chloe has discovered her volume button and enjoys squealing at her daddy and I. She also feels the need to show us that she can pick up every toy and hold it up "high". This is no matter how big the toy is. The pictures below are of her and her boyfriend Ethan. They definately are aware of each other and try their hardest to poke at each others eyes. They do hold hands alot and Sunday at church they tried really hard not to talk during church. Below is a their engagement picture. Atleast that is what I think it looks like. We think they are both precious and feel blessed to have friends like Summer and Brad and that Chloe has Ethan. There are also some pictures of her in her new bath seat that she is throughly enjoying. Now that she can sit up in tub she can splash and kick all she wants.

Ever Been TO Scared to Pray?

2006-02-20T13:24:00.000-08:00

Normally, being the happy person I am, I try to blog about fun, silly or eventful things in our lives, but today I feel the overwhelming need to ask a question...Have you ever been to scared to pray? I know that sounds stupid. You are probably thinking to yourself, "hey stupid it should be easier to pray when you are scared." Well here is what brought this question about. God has really been working on my heart, trying to bring me closer to him, to where I need to be. This I know will help me be a better wife, mom, friend...a better a lot of things. But I have decided that I stay detached because I have to many questions. I want to ask God things that I know there is now understanding too. I have always been frustrated with that. Some things are big and some things are just big to me. What brought this feeling on full force was reading Joe and Laura Hays blog. First let me share briefly the story...Ira is almost a year, and for almost ALL of that year he has spent his life in the PICU or NICU. This makes me angry. No child should live this way. I grieve that this little boy doesnt get to sit in his house and play with is toys. But what bothers me and frustrates me more is that he has been sedated and restrained since December 24th. This is done for his own benefit so that he doesnt pull his tube out. This means since December 24th this child has not been held by his mother or father. On Wednesday they are extubating him, to give him a chance to breath on his own, if this works he can be unsedated and be held. I want to cry out from every ounce of me that this goes well and that Ira breaths and that all is well, but I AM SCARED. Scared of being let down and knowing that if this doesnt work that he will have a tracheostomy and that is unreal and will be devastating for Joe and Laura. So how do you pray when you are scared. When the outcome could crush your heart. I know that He knows I am scared. But I plead with God to give this little boy a full breath. Let him be healed by you. Sustain Joe and Laura. Just let him breathe!!!

My Funny Valentine

2006-02-14T07:32:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the long span of post time. Things of course are always busy at work and when I go home I want to spend time with the family and not blogging. Today is valentines, typically it is my least favorite day of the year. I dont need a day to tell me I love my husband, but todays valentines is great because I got to see the sweetest face wake up this morning, and I am not talking about my husband. I love his face, dont get me wrong, but the sweet face I am talking about is my funny valentine. She looked cute going to school and one day when she is old enough to understand what today is I will make sure to have a valentines treat for her just like my mom always did. She is giving us the sweetest kisses and has the sweetest personality. I have posted some pictures and I hope that they make your valentines good...

Put on Your Easter...uh...Playing Bonnet

2006-01-31T18:16:00.000-08:00

Here are some recent pictures of the kid. She is finally getting over the crud and we are all so glad. The RSV caused an ear infection which caused great lacks of sleep for all. It is all finally cleared up and we are all back to sleeping. These pictures were taken while playing in our excersaucer, sometimes a girl just needs to wear a hat when she plays. There is not much to blog about unless you find copies, cars or coughs interesting information so I will just let you all enjoy the new pictures without details of jobs or sickies.I would like to point out that we do bathe our child but she is sporting a nice drool ring in these pictures...compliments of our two bottom teeth trying to come in.

Tending to my own

2006-01-23T18:36:00.000-08:00

Watching your child be sick is the hardest thing a parent can do. It makes you question every ounce of good you thought about your parenting skills. It makes you want to quit your job so that they never spend another day out in the world and risk getting sick. You question even your better judgement that tells you that you are a good mom. If your baby is sick then how can you be a good mom. Arent you supposed to protect them against EVERYTHING bad in this world. If you havent figured it out our litte precious is sick...AGAIN. My sister does her best to comfort me and tell me that it is her age, everything in the mouth no matter how hard you try. And not that I dont appreciate all the comfort, but it just doesnt make you feel better about your sick baby.

She is lathargic and wraspy, she is achy and fussy with fever. The doctor did the RSV test (the least fun I have ever had and the only time I have cried in front of a doctor as a grown up) We are doing breathing treatments which is the most pitiful thing that you have ever seen. There is nothing worse than not being able to stop an ache, a cough, a fever, watery eyes or a stuffy nose. There is no harder job than being a mom to a sick baby, but it is a job I would never quit.

I have the most helpful husband and he is wonderful in trying to give me a break after a long day with her. He helps feed and bathe and change diapers and he hurts just as bad as I do. I couldnt ask for a better, or more wonderful sweet husband. He is a prince...and a handsome prince at that. He offers to take off work, but I just cant leave her all knowing she doesnt feel good. When she is not laughing and talking my heart is sad. When I hear that little cough I ache. I cannot imagine Joe and Laura and their battle and I cannot imagine what takes over in a mommy to watch doctors work on your child and do things that hurt him that you know help him. I remember very vividly when my brother was my nephews age visiting Texas Children's Hospital while he stayed there recovering from a septic hip. I remember showing up right before he went into surgery. I remember what that hallway looked like and the waiting room. I remember him wearing an IV. I remember being nine or ten and not getting it. Not understanding why my moms face was full of fear in that waiting room. She says an angel touched her and told her that she should go check on him upstairs. As wonderful as my husband is there is just something that God puts in a mommy to know and feel pain when their babies are. To not rest easy if the baby doesnt seem just right. He stirs a mommies soul to know that she needs to tend to that baby.
I am blessed and she will get better soon, but tonight she is not well and so I am not well. I am like a mommy bear protecting her young. I sleep by her with one I open, checking that breathing, listening intently at every cough, wiping every runny nose. Tending to my own.

TEETHING SUCKS

2006-01-18T12:11:00.000-08:00

I have a six month old...she is teething...IT SUCKS. I could end my post there and most mommies would understand what I mean. Nothing more said needed. Dont get me wrong I feel sorry enough for my little angel who is dealing with the discomfort of those pesky teeth, but this post is more about me, and the fact that I havent slept more than 5 hours any night this week. She cannot get comfortable which means I cannot get comfortable. She has also made the decision this week that she is a TOTAL momma's girl. Not to say that I am not thrilled to have won the award since I did carry her for 10 months in me, but for her it means all the time...just me! So we are currently at our house working full time jobs, trying to remember each other's name and developing new stages with a six month old. There isnt much else to update because even though we are busier than we have ever been it is something of a bore to have to read about our daily grind.

Pictures of the Peanut

2006-01-14T18:35:00.000-08:00

Nothing exciting to report around the Meeks house. Just new pictures we thought everyone would like to see.

Still Here...Still Crazy

2006-01-13T07:26:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I had a friend ask me if I had fallen off the planet. This was due to the fact that I havent blogged in a few days. Yep, I am still here. It was a very busy weekend and week for us and I guess blogging just wasnt top priority. My parents came into town this past weekend. We always have so much fun with them and it makes us want to live closer. Probably more now than ever so that they can see Chloe grow. But God has planted us here currently and until we feel an urging from here, here we will stay. We ate at a new resturant here in town and it was a beautiful atmosphere. A little pricey in my opinion but your paying for the "ambiance". Then on Sunday, little bit got sick. It was a first in our 5 1/2 months but still no fun. I hate to see her that way. I just kept thinking of Joe and Laura and how they must hurt watching Ira fight and not being able to do anything. She got better but I missed two days of work...the two busiest days. This resulted in sheer pandemonium when I came back. Oh well! Atleast it makes me feel needed. I am beginning to see some pieces of my desk again as I sort through my tasks at hand. I am just glad peanut is better. The doctor said it had been going around and that she could have got it from day care or just being out, so we will never know...sterilize, sterilize! I changed all sheets, chloroxed everything and made sure the house was spic and span so that all germs were gone. Day care said that they do the same. I believe them. It is a wonderful place to leave your children and I feel a peace about her being there. They are so sweet to her. You cant prevent illness, she is at such a germy age because we put EVERYTHING in our mouth! I watch and watch but she will suck on her toe is she has too. We try to keep the passy in at all times but I am worried she is going to have passy withdrawl one day when it finally has to go away. She has developed such a precious and funny personality. She has always been a sweet baby and a good baby, but know she knows she is funny too. She growls at us and loves to look at herself in the mirror and talk to herself. She is enjoying her Johnny jumper and bumbo now because they make her feel BIG. She is sitting on her own and the johnny jumper allows her to stand like she is big. Needless to say it is a big diaper that hangs from a ginormous spring from inside a door, but heck, she doesnt know that and will bounce herself and scream until she falls asleep in it. We love it! Her being sick caused her sleeping pattern to get off and so she is waking up alot, but we will survive and get her back on schedule. I hope this post has sufficently updated all two of you who read these ramblings of our boring, but busy life.

Can You Believe it...

2006-01-04T13:57:00.000-08:00

Last night we ate dinner with our good friends the Fuquas. Summer and I went through pregnancy about as close as two friends could. Our kids (how wierd does that still sound) were born almost exactly two months to the day apart. Chloe on the 28th and Ethan on the 1st. It seems like just yesterday we were sitting at the stoplight of Sayles and 11th and Summer telling us she was pregnant. Or us calling them at their house and telling them we were pregnant after we thought it wasnt possible. Last night as I sat around the table with these precious friends, I couldnt believe how far we have come. From playing joker and wahoo, and eating Shakes and Wingstop. To eating Wingstop (yeah ... like we would give up wingstop) and the loading up the car seats to head home. I think there will come a day again when we can play games again and watch movies, but it seems like the babies have other plans for us in the evening. I look at Chloe (5 months) and Ethan (7 months) and wonder where the time went. It seems like yesterday resting Ethan on my pregnant belly waiting for our precious arrival, and now here we are full fledged moms and dads of teethers, tooters and droolers. I posted some pictures of Gracie below so those that follow these little "piece of Meeks" can see how she has changed. I wish you could all hear her talk and watch the world. One day she will be sitting at a computer blogging about how she cant believe how life has changed. Summer it seems like a month ago we were eating at Schlotskys and complaining about indegestion.

2006-01-01T17:38:00.000-08:00

First let me say congrats to our good friends who welcomed their new little boy into the world. He was the first born in our town in 2006. We are so happy for you guys! My sister told me once before Chloe got here that she was jealous I was getting to have that day...delivery day. My sister has three kids and has gone through it, so I didnt quite understand. Now I do. There is nothing like meeting your child for the first time. It is the best day of my life. I am jealous for our friends today...but really more happy for them.
Then there are those who have to meet and say goodbye to their child on the same day or shortly there after. I hurt for these people. That is all I can think to say. I physically hurt for them. Through my blogging adventures I have come in contact with two families who have had to endure more than their share of CRAP this year. One is still dealing with the emotions from loosing their little boy and the other is standing at their child's bedside watching and waiting. All I can do is pray. I feel so hopeless. I wish I could pick up Joe and Laura out of their situation and save them from more pain. As my dad put it "this is by far the most difficult thing any person will ever go through." Then I wish I could help Julie not feel that hurt anymore. But I cant I can just pray for comfort. That is one thing I realized through hearing all these stories is that God is a God of comfort. It still at times makes you feel like there is nothing right to say. You cant take away the hurt or the pain and words are just never enough. So I will keep on praying.

3,2,1...Happy New Year

2005-12-30T09:41:00.000-08:00

I cant believe it is almost 2006. Last year at this time I had just found out I was pregnant. Now she is five months old. Time just flies. J's family is in town this weekend celebrating his families Christmas, so we are looking forward to opening more presents, but dreading putting up all the Christmas decorations.
I have decided putting up Christmas decorations is like going on a trip. You dont mind packing (or putting up lights and tree) because it is fun and the trip will be fun and pretty and if you have new clothes they are fun too, but then you come home and you have dirty clothes to unpack and the trip is over and now you just have all this stuff left to put up (i.e. tree and lights). Christmas is fun and all, but I get tired of putting everything up.
Chloe is getting bigger everyday and is trying so hard to sit up on her own. She is still a little wobbly and when she gets to excited she just falls forward so dad and I are around to make sure she keeps her balance.
As much as we love the holidays are schedules seem hectic and we are getting ready to get back to normal work weeks and routines. I hope all of your holidays were wonderful. Have a happy new year!

Yes...I Do give Autographs

2005-12-27T08:57:00.000-08:00

If there is one thing I hate on television and radio it is annoying auto commercials where you are listening and then you realize someone is screaming at you to buy a car. If there is something I hate more than that it is being on camera. I wouldnt even have my wedding video taped at the hate and loathe of cameras. One of Jeremy's friends "con-ned" me into being in one of his short films and I hated every take. But today I got to combine my to hates and be in an automotive commercial. Granted it is not a screaming...buy one of our cars....sort of commercial. It is nice, calm, classy feeling, but none the less...it is a commercial. I know I am not good on camera. I get to tickled at myself, like my mom does when she tries to record the message on the answering machine. But I managed...somehow I did it. And once we were through I found out I was the "lead". So that means this very face that I can find alot of stuff wrong with, as well as my voice, will be broadcasted all over this town and some surrounding others. So if you pass me in the mall, yes...I will sign autographs!

_____________________________

Now to more important things...
Today my precious parents have been married for 34 years! WOW! Mom and dad, I am amazed by the example yall have shown all of your kids. I missed the first part cause I wasnt around yet, and I am sure yall had a lot of learning to do, but you succeeded and made it work. Not only did you make it work you gave us a loving home with loving parents to grow up with. When we all come together like we did this weekend for Christmas I am reminded how blessed I am to have both my parents there. I thank yall more now, than ever, as I am married and have my own family at how hard yall worked and how dedicated you are to each other. I couldnt ask for two more wonderful examples.

The Shopping Nightmare

2005-12-22T10:45:00.000-08:00

Ok let me say a few nice things about my precious husband before I rag on him a little bit. He is so thoughtful and always wants to buy me things that I want. We recently "upgraded" a piece of my jewlery and I got a beautiful watch for Christmas. He is sincere and always wants to surprise me even though I hate surprises. My mom knows this about me, because as a child I would open all my Christmas presents and then wrap them back. I couldnt stand the wait. Well, even after I told Jeremy that my two new pieces of jewlery were just perfect and I wanted no more for Christmas, but last night he showed up with a present to put under the tree...not anything big mind you, but a SURPRISE that I cannot open until we do our Christmas together. Well this has posed a problem for me. I want to SURPRISE him with something, but the ideas he has given me consist of a driver (for golf), a bose docking port for his Ipod(which has to be ordered), rx sunglasses which he would have to be there for, and an Xbox 360 (um, I dont think so)! So now I am bewildered. I asked him if he wanted a watch...no...a new wedding ring...no...clothes...NO! I am stumped, the things that I would like to get him are things that he really doesnt want, and the things that he wants I really cant have wrapped and under the tree. Beside the fact that sending me in a golf store to pick out a driver is like sending Jeremy into a lingerie store and telling him to buy a bra for me...what he thinks is cool and what I think is cool would be two different things. So I am at a loss...what to do...what to buy! So in the most precious way possible my husband has become a hyprocrite. He can surprise me, but in no way is it possible for me to surprise him!

Thoughts...

2005-12-21T11:17:00.000-08:00

I just watched on msn. com the "year in pictures." As always there are pictures that make you laugh and pictures that make your stomach drop, but I realized that slideshow lets you view the awesomeness of God and the devistation of Satan. There are pictures of beauty, like a farmhouse in the snow, or a sweet puppy. There are pictures of all the weather we have seen, hurricanes and wildfires. And there is pictures of war and the devistation of war. There was a picture of a little boy, probably about two, standing at his fathers funeral running toward the casket. It was crushing. It made me think of all my "blog friends" whose lives are being affected by loss... the Whaleys are missing their little Noah and I cant even imagine the hole in her heart. Kerri is dealing with her fight for her life, as well as Rick. The Hayes are at the hospital in Brooklyn because Ira cant breathe, and we just delivered a car to a woman who has terminal cancer and probably wont be here next Christmas. But as hard as all of these things are to stomach and they seem even more challenging at Christmas, the irony is that this is a season of hope. This is when our hope began as Christians. The promise was fullfilled, or futures werent in the grave. I know that thought doesnt help alot of people and I am sure for the Whaley's they just want Noah, and I know Laura Hayes just wants Ira to be healthy. But I cant help but be glad that we have hope. The Whaleys will see Noah, and Ira shows me what faithfullness is, and Kerri and Rick are the example of joy in struggles. They have the faith of Daniel. I must admit I have not really been looking forward to Christmas, but in my selfishness, I am glad my Chloe is here and healthy, that my family is not wandering hospital halls, and that Christ was born and died for me to give me hope.

A Daughters Tribute...

2005-12-14T14:20:00.000-08:00

My dad never likes a "big to-do" made over him or his birthday, but this is my blog and I can say whatever I want and he cant stop me! So here it goes.

As a a grown woman there are alot of things that I remember from my childhood, and I have heard from my mother every birthday about the day I was born, but one thing that I always remember my dad telling me was that he was the first one to ever see me as I was coming into the world. I always loved to hear that. If one of the Etheredge children is most like my father, most would tell you it was me. Our tempers, our personalities, the way I walk, my rear end; there is alot about me that is alot like my dad. As a little girl I dont remember playing mommy very much, but I do remember playing "business." It didnt matter what business but I was the BOSS! (my poor brother and cousin) But today is my hero's birthday, my hero is a 59 year old man who is no giant and drives a pick up truck. He doesnt look like Brad Pitt and he can be really ornary, but he is my dad and he is my hero. He is the strongest person I know and has never let life circumstances keep him from getting what he wanted. He loves the Lord and has no shame it letting people know that. He is an incredible businessman and a fair boss. He runs his business with integrity and wisdom. He loves my mom more than anyone and I have never had any doubt of that. He is the most generous person and would give you the shirt off his back and the last penny in his pocket. He loves to ride like the wind and play like a kid. He is fun and funny. He always has stood behind and up for his kids, but was never to afraid to spank us if we needed it...and boy did I need it. We know beyond a shadow of a doubt he doesnt like tatoos or tounge rings and he doesnt think it is funny to joke about it either. He is great at giving advice, he loves gadgets, and he is the one who bred Souther Gospel Music in me. Without him our family would be lost. I have always said that if my dad were to die I wouldnt want his money, just his pillow case and voice recorder. My dads voice can still scare me and calm me depending on its tone, but his smell makes me feel comforted. He lives three hours away but would move heaven and earth to get here if I needed him. He cant stand to see his kids in a hospital even if they are having babies. He doesnt know what to do when a baby spits up but will hold his grandkids even with that risk. His kids have learned to manage his practical jokes and are used to waking up to bugs in their face on Saturday mornings. So my hero might be a 59 year old man, but he is better than Superman or Brad Pitt because he is my dad and I love every memory that I have with him and every memory that I will get to have with him. Thanks dad for all the laughter, fun, discipline, compliments, dates and moments that a lot of kids dont have. Thank you for loving all of us and for sticking with us. Happy Birthday!

Dumbo!

2005-12-12T13:35:00.000-08:00

Do you ever have the feeling an elephant is sitting on your chest? I mean, that you have so much on your mind at times that you cant breathe. You know, those moments that you catch yourself driving in the car and your mind is so distracted that you think to yourself when you pull into the driveway, "I dont even remember the drive home." Well that is how I feel right now. There are things going on in my life that have me so tied up at the moment. Things that I am constantly trying to work out in my brain, but dont feel like I am getting anywhere. And lucky you, my faithful blog readers...all two of you...get to hear about it. Here are questions that I am trying to answer:
Why is marriage so hard at times?
Why do you feel like you are fighting to make it survive?
Why cant I feel MORE guided by God?
Why do I feel like I am floating thru life right now, not knowing what I really am supposed to do?
Why when I feel like I have made a good decision about a "life change" do I feel like I have anxiety?
Why is it Christmas and I feel like scrooge?

Things right now just dont feel easy in my life. So much seems forced. So much seems confusing. I feel pulled. I feel like I want to crawl into bed and sleep it off. Maybe it is "tired", maybe it is the need to have a moment to breathe. I feel like since I have had her life is a whirlwind, no slow time, no down time, no time to breathe and enjoy being home with my family, with my husband. I feel like I havent seen just him in so long. My soul constantly feels stirred. I know I am not close enough to God as I need to be right now, but I dont know what to do to get closer, feel closer, feel on fire. I feel like people watch me right now and think..."whats wrong with her." People have told me recently I am not the same "K" as I was, and my response to that is...YOURE RIGHT! I am not, I dont feel like the same, happy, smiley, joyful her. I am this other person, this serious, thought envoked, distracted, busy person who doesnt feel like "talking" or being close to people. Its like at times I dont even want to smile. I just walk like a zombie right now. I feel like a zombie right now. I am beyond confused about this. Why cant I feel happy, why cant I feel complete, fulfilled, "un" angry? I know that there are people who are worrying about bigger things. People who are sick, people who are dying, and are hurting for actual good reasons not just because they are a big baby like me. But I miss my joy, I miss feeling happy, I miss feeling complete, I miss me...the old me that found happiness in my family, my husband and baby, my job, my firends. Now I have trouble finding that, feeling that, wanting to feel that. I just feel like a big elephant is on my chest...GET OFF DUMBO!!

Slight Change of Plans...

2005-12-06T06:27:00.000-08:00

Just when you think that you have it all figured out there is a kink in the plans. Not a bad kink...actually a very good, positive kink. As it turns out my employer seems to really like me...he likes me, he really likes me...so when I gave him the notice of my departure from the company he began to try to bargain with me, well, yesterday he came back with an offer that I cant turn down. It is the best of both worlds, it is mommy and work in one! I am going to work part time, I will have off two days a week so I can spend them with my sweet girl. I think that this is going to work. It will allow me some "me" time, if you call work "me" time, but it will also allow me some much needed mommy time. I wont miss as much, I can cook, I can clean, I can keep up with life at home. So as it turns out, if you pray God will answer your prayers.

Time...What Time?

2005-12-02T10:38:00.000-08:00

I hear myself saying that over and over again...time with laundry...I have to make it...time with my boss...I have no choice...time in my care...on the way home BUT time with my baby and my husband, that I am missing. So in an effort to make sure that I enjoy every minute of this little girls life I have made the very hard but easy decision to quit my job which I love so much. I have quit jobs I hated and I have quit jobs for another job that would be better, but I have never quit a job that I love! I love my boss, my office, the work I do, that I am respected here, that I work with great people, that I get to drive new cars all the time...There is a lot I love about my job, but what I love more than any of those things is the face of my little girl, her smile, watching her sleep, playing with her, dancing for her to make her laugh, feeding her, holding her while she sleeps. It is to hard to miss so much. It is to hard to spend three hours with her at night and spend my weekends running trying to play catch up. i feel like I am missing to much. I have heard stay at home mommies say, "it is one of the hardest jobs, but I have never regretted it." I have never heard a stay at home mommy say, "I hate this job, I hate being with my kids." I wont regret quitting my job, although I will miss it very much, but I will regret missing so much time with my baby. I sat at her four month check up yesterday and stared at this beautiful little girl, and I knew, I couldnt miss any more time with her. So pray for our family as we make this transition, pray for me as I learn to be content at home, and pray for Jeremy that he doesnt feel to much pressure from supporting his family completely. God is guiding this little family that He put together.

Friends, Fun and jogging

2005-11-21T10:22:00.000-08:00

Not alot happening at our house these days, although it does seem like were ALWAYS busy. So we must be doing something. I think I am starting some sinus throat junk which I am not liking. Chloe is doing great. Her boyfriend Ethan came to visit last week and they enjoyed talking at and over each other and stared deeply into each others eyes, when Ethan decided that brown stuff on the top of Chloe's head looked like fun to play with. I am pretty sure that they both think that we got them moving toys that sound like them. But they were cute together. I think Summer and I both are in disbelief that they are ours. It seems like yesterday we were griping about the woes of pregnancy and now here they are laughing with each other. There is also some pictures of her sporting her Reebok running suit. Although she cant even sit up on her own she looked like she could run in the olympics. I think it was one of my favorite outfits. Well I am posting pictures for the two of you to see how she is changing and see her and her boyfriend on their first date.

Milestones from the Meeks

2005-11-14T06:35:00.000-08:00

My daughter is now getting old enough that she is doing things that I can write about. You know, instead of the usual post, she is laying there smiling and looking cute. We have actually had some rather big events at our house. Not big in comparison to say, the Presdient staying with us, but BIG for us. First, we have had our first baby food; pears and apples. WE LOVE THE PEARS. Before we can even get the spoon reloaded she is got her mouth open yelling to us to get more in. We decided to make this jump as she was eating about 6 oz every two hours and the doctor thought it was time. Now we eat three meals a day and a bottle at night. It is messy but fun to watch her enjoy it. Which brings us to our next big news, she is sitting in her high chair. She loves to sit in it, wether eating or sitting by mom while she cooks dinner, she kicks back and enjoys herself. Third, we sat in our excersaucer and as you can see from the look on her face, she thinks she is big. And last but not least...we are teething. It is offical, chewing, nawing and screaming if her teeth hurt her. Thank god for children's tylenol. Well that is our big news! Hope you enjoy the pictures.

Baby Bumbo to the Rescue

2005-11-10T11:43:00.000-08:00

As previously discussed in prior blogs my child likes to sit up...all the time...lest she might fall asleep or be an actual baby. So I took advice from Amber who suggested a baby bumbo. Her daughter Jacy has one and loves it. I now owe Amber my quite evenings. Yesterday our baby Bumbo arrived and as eager parents we stuck our little couch potatoe in it. She loves to sit and watch television in the evenings. We put her in it, put her in front of the television...and I think we created a monster. She was BIG and man she felt it. She knew she was sitting on her own, and she was proud of it. We have the most hilarious picture of her watching television that I will have to post. She can sit in this to eat, she can sit in it in the mornings while I am getting ready, just whenever. She loves to sit up and now she can...all on her own. I must admit though, there is some sadness, that at only three months old she already has no desire to let me cuddle her. Although last night at around nine o'clock she let me hold her like a baby and fell asleep against me with those fat little cheeks. Still is the best moment of my day looking at that little face peaceful and happy. Another thing that was so cute, is when she was sitting in her Bumbo in the middle of her dad and I and she looked over at Jeremy, like "look at me dad" smiled and then laid her head on him. It was just to precious. It was as if she was saying...thanks dad for my cool new seat, see how big I am. What a precious angel baby I was blessed with. Thank you God for my angel you sent here to earth.

Channeling Michelle

2005-11-07T12:22:00.000-08:00

Ok ladies, those of you not interested in golf you might want to skip down to the part about baby. This weekend I played golf...a lot of golf. And you know what...I AM ADDICTED. I understand how men can spend hours out there. It feels great, it is excersise, it is fun. Sorry ladies for betraying our loyalty to golf hating but I really did enjoy it. I am actually looking forward to getting off work so that I can take Chloe out there and hit balls. We did that a couple times too and she loves being out there in her strolle on such beautiful days, she is just happy and talking. It is a fun family outing. Anyways enough about that.
This weekend when I wasnt golfing I was being a mommy and love that even more. She is developing such a sweet personality and loves to talk to her daddy and I, and if we didnt already know it, she is letting us know, she is big and in charge. She loves to sit up and watch television she loves to eat and she loves to talk. If we prohibt any of these things she lets us know very loudly. She wore the sweetest GAP overalls today, I just love her in overalls, that is why she has so many of them. But last night in her little pjs was the best, she ate her cereal and fell asleep on my chest. She smelled so good, looked so peaceful and sweet. I could have just eaten her little cheeks off. As promised here are some pictures of my daisy duke: She fell asleep with her hat like that. She was just chillin'. :)

The Fight of The Daisy

2005-11-02T06:51:00.000-08:00

Well our trip to the costume carnival was not a successful one, infact, it never even took place. Chloe decided she did not like her costume and it made her somewhat mad to have to wear it. Who knows maybe she would have rather been a pink daisy. Well we kept her in it long enough to get some pictures which I will post later. She look absolutely precious this morning when she went to school. She was wearing a precious pair of Osh Kosh overalls and a pink gap onesie with her pink daisy rattle socks. She really is an overall kind of girl. I wish I could just figure out what to do with all that crazy hair. It cant pull it in a ponytail because it is like feathers, the back is getting longer and longer, but it is just like mine in that it parts distinctly to one side so I can sort of pin a bow on one side but that looks kind of silly. Oh the woes of being a mommy to a girl. This is only the beginning. She is sweet and wonderful and everyday discovers something new that she loves about herself; ie, her feet, her voice and her hands. I am thankful everyday for my little blessing she holds me together when things are crazy.

And a Big Thank You Goes Out To...

2005-10-28T07:47:00.000-07:00

As many of you who read our blog (um, maybe two of you) may have noticed we have recieved some comments from some obscence bloggers, so as in the best intrest of making our blog family friendly our greatest friend Brad F, has fixed our little issue and now we should not be seeing any of those pesky comments. Also if you are an anonymous poster you can now post on our blog...so yippee and thank you to Brad.

Today is Chloe's three month Birthday, and in her honor we have agreed to letting her tell you about her life as of today. She is incredibly smart, ut not yet able to type because her head is still to wobbly, so she will dictate and I will type. " I enjoy my baths everyday and laugh and talk during the entire thing. I think it is fun to toot in my water and do it most regularly. I have found that between the hours of 7 and 9 o'clock at night I enjoy to watch television, so I make mom hold me straight up at the risk of falling asleep and missing my shows. She tries to lean me back but I just wont have it. I am enjoying cereal everynight before bed and eat it so fast that I cant even keep my eyes open when I am done. My firend Ethan came to visit me last night and him and I are going to the costume carnival at church, I will be a yellow daisy and he will be a cow. We have fun together, but he is bigger than me and can sit up and that makes me a little mad that I just have to stare at him all big. Mom thinks I am funny when I talk to my little birdie in the morning and it makes her sad that I talk to it more than her, but really I like her more. The other night mom left me with dad for about an hour and a half, I thought it was real funny to scream the whole time so that mommy had to race home, as soon as she walked in the door and took me from daddy, i started smiling and fell asleep. Dad didnt think it was to funny. Nothing else is really that eventful, I enjoy the mall and walks around the block, I am smiley and very cute and I love my room and bed, my mommy did a very good job in there."

Well that is all she has to say for now, she will post at another time. Until then we are taking good care of her and she is fat and happy. She misses her cousins, Aunt Amy and mimi and pop very much.

Sick Baby Blues

2005-10-22T10:32:00.001-07:00

Little precious has a cough. It isnt to bad and she saw the doctor today, who said it was allergy related in the air and she had nothing in her lungs, throat or ears so that is good news. i just hate to hear her cough it is so sad. People asked...where do you think she got it...gee I dont know from being alive and out in public. That question kind of erks me. You want to protect them from everything but somethings you just cant, it isnt like I went to the hospital and rubbed her all over some sick person, she just caught it. Anyways, pretty laid back weekend, I only have laundry for about a year. Ugh! I hate laundry. We have been trying to sell our washer and dryer because I need and want a larger capacity with the energy star but I am having no luck selling it. I am about to give up! It was perfect for me when I was in college and newly married but now with towels and sheets and clothes for three and everything else, i feel like I do about a billion loads to get everything washed. Well this blog is obviously about nothing important just a way to ramble the day away. Hope everyone has a great weekend!

20 Things I love About You...

2005-10-20T09:11:00.000-07:00

I am going to copy my friend Summer who did this for her husbands birthday, but I decided to do it just for no reason, because I think sometimes my husband just needs to hear 20 things I love about him!

1. YOUR VOICE--- it is the reason I fell in love with you. It makes me melt like a popsicle on the fourf of July.
2.Your tenderness
3. Everyone loves you.
4. Your willingness to help with Chloe
5.How much you love Chloe
6. Your butt...sorry mom and dad...dont read that one
7. Your eyes...they are beautiful and show so much love
8. Your patience with me
9. The fact that you will eat ANYTHING. You make it easy to cook
10. The way you work so hard to provide for us.
11. Your desire to want to give us everything
12. Did I say your butt?
13. How cute you look in blue jeans and a polo shirt
14. The way your pillow smells like you
15. Your cologne
16. Your smile...it makes me smile
17. The way you love Chloe and I
18. How you want to make sure I know you love me
19. That you admit you cant cook
20.That you married me forever!!!

I love you baby! You are to good to me and I thank you for sharing your life with me! I am gald our dreams are taking shape and that I have your hand to hold for the rest of my life.

Still a Work in Progress

2005-10-18T16:09:00.000-07:00

I have decided...after much thought...I am still a work in progress. There are days when I love myself and then there are those days when I just think ...Katie what is with you! I constantly fight myself to find contentment in my life. That is how I always have been. I am sure that is how I will always be. But I must forge on and work on my contentment issues. I can say that this is why my job is perfect for me...it is forever changing. Everything that I do changes from day to day and I love that. I love it that each day is different...each day is new. I guess that is why my husband and I are perfect for each other. He would be content doing the same thing, the same way everyday for the rest of his life, and I on the other hand would love if things were different everyday for the rest of my life...with the exception of my bed...I love my bed! OK that was random, but I do love my bed! But I guess we push and pull each other when we need to. That is a good thing to. I need to be pushed to stay still and enjoy my life just the way it is. And he needs to be pulled so that we dont get in a rut. So I guess God is still working on me. There is a long list of things I need to work on and things I want to do, and I am sure that I will die working on that list. I guess it is ok as long as I die trying.

A quick baby update. She is eating more and more. She is going to eat us out of house and home. I love watching her little face get fatter and fatter and now that she is smiling and talking it is so much fun to watch her as she communicates with some of her toys. You should have heard her talk to her daddy last night. It was probably the sweetest wordless conversation I have ever heard. She did get mad at him though when he took to long getting the bottle to her mouth. She is quite opionated when it comes to food. What a sweet baby she is. So the next one will be born with a horn and tail right?

Is it Friday Yet?

2005-10-06T14:01:00.000-07:00

Wow what a crazy...but great...week at work. I like it when I am super busy because it makes the days go by faster, but it makes me exhausted by the end of the week. Our service manager told me that I had more energy than anyone he has ever seen. :) I dont know what he is talking about. I could lay under my desk and take a nap right now. Chloe slept through the night last night and got up at 5:30. That was perfect timing except we still have to drag our butts out of bed like zombies.
We are having our pictures taken on Saturday. I am excited to have some fresh pictures of J and I too, we havent had a picture taken since our wedding. I also am having some taken with just chloe and I. I hope they turn out good! I am NOT photogenic. We shall see. I always hate the way I look in pictures.
I have decided that I buy my child way to many clothes. I have also decided that I am OCD. I will buy like ten of something so that I dont run out (like baby wash) and when there are like 5 left I feel like I already need to go get more. I mean seriously there not all going to accidentally spill in the tub. I just have issues. I do the same with formula, which is why we have like a bizillion cans in our pantry. Its ok...I will always be prepared, even if I am a little crazy! I also decided that I like change to much...moving furniture, changing bedding, rearranging things...I am crazy!
My boss leaves for Scotland on Saturday to play at the oldest golf course in the world. I had to tease him a little about that. If you love golf that much it is just funny to me, because I hate it so much! Well not much exciting. I am about to tie up some loose ends here and then head home to make a big pot of stew! It is cold cold here...I love it!

A Baby Blessed

2005-10-03T10:49:00.000-07:00

Yesterday at church we had Chloe's baby blessing. For those who dont know what that is, it is a time for the church family to pray over and bless a new baby. Mike said the sweetest prayer and all of Chloe's grandparents were in attendance. What a "blessed" little girl. I kept reading the program where it said Blessing of Chloe Grace, daughter of Jeremy and Katie and kept thinking to myself...wow...daughter...I have a daughter, and a beautiful one at that. I had to put up most of her newborn and 0-3 month clothing because she is just to stinkin' long. She was 24 inches when we went for her check up and her little fit we just popping out of her footies and the onesies wouldnt snap anymore. It was kind of sad to think that she is already getting into another size of clothing. Just three months ago I would stand and look at her closet because I couldnt wait for her to get here and wear all of her clothes and now we are already through one size.
This weekend was so nice. I decorated for fall and had good intentions of getting laundry done which didnt happen. But we got to relax and just enjoy being home. Jeremy worked in the yard and I planted fall flowers it was just a beautiful weekend. This week a cold front is supposed to blow in and I am very excited. I am looking very forward to cool fall weather. Baby has started to go to bed around 9:00 everynight which is so nice and it seems that she isnt really having that fussy time anymore. Although it wasnt to bad when she did have it, it is nice that she stays content all evening.
Well just another crazy monday. Just took a moment to update my blog on my lunch. Now it is back to work!

Finally Friday...

2005-09-30T11:00:00.000-07:00

I am glad it is Friday. The weekend forecast looks pretty great too! I have been wanting so badly to decorate my house and yard for fall but I cant motivate myself to be out in the 104 degree weather...that doesnt feel very fallish to me. But this weekend is supposed to me mid 80's which will feel like 60's after 104 !I need to get up in the attic and locate my fall wreath and my tub that has all my fall decor in it. My mom gave me this cute little "pumpkin kid" that I am going to put by my front door. I also want to get pumpkins and some mums if lowes has them out already. I love fall it is my favorite time of year. I wish it would go ahead and get here.
Here are some pictures of little girl one in her tutu that her mimi gave her and one in a little outfit that Jeremy's mom had bought for Jeremy to take to the hospital in case he was a girl. I think her little smile is so sweet in that one. Hope you enjoy the pics!

Happy Birthday Chloe...

2005-09-28T14:49:00.000-07:00

I cant belive it has been two months since my beautiful little girl came into thisorld. I REALLY cant believe it! She is such a sweet and happy baby. Her daddy and I love her more than we ever thought possible.
Yesterday at day care they told us that she was the only "happy" baby and that she was happy all day. That made me feel good.
I will post this picture just because I think it is so cute. It shows just a little bit her cute personality.
Look at her sweet little face. I am such a proud mommy. I feel so blessed to have such a sweet good healthy baby. I delivered at thirty eight weeks and I am so lucky that it went so well. Those who read my blog pray for a lady named Julie Whaley she was pregnant just like me and had a baby just like me not knowing anything was wrong, Noah Whaley was born and the passed away ten days later. I cant imagine how much she aches to smell him and kiss his little cheeks. I miss Chloe when I am away from her during the day. Just pray for her amazing strength through her struggle!

Chloe Update...

2005-09-27T07:28:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow Chloe will be two months old...It is already going by to quickly. We took pictures of her last night and so I thought I would post so everyone could see how she has changed. She is a happy baby and always content. Infact we didnt even have our fussy time last night. Hope you enjoy the pictures

On the road again...I can wait...

2005-09-26T11:26:00.000-07:00

We just came back from another weekend out of town. It was fun but admitedly more stressful for me. I wasnt "at home" in my old house with my parents so I always feel a bit disjointed at others peoples homes. Chloe girl had her 8 weeks shots on Thursday as well and so she was still a bit fussy and uncomfortable especially with all the people around that wanted to hold her and all the running around it was hard for her to relax. It also changed her eating patter which always worries me a bit when my good little eater becomes a little bit finicky. But last night after we got home Jeremy fed her a full bottle and some cereal which she thouroghly enjoyed and after a big burp she laid happily in her bed and fell asleep while mommy worked putting away all of her goddies from her very prosperous baby shower.
It was actually very sweet when I laid her down and made me feel good that she recognizes her room. Last weekend I finally got to see the beautiful and so precious quilt that my moms best friend made BY HAND for Chloe. It has the most beautiful fabrics and the most preciouse puppy with floppy ears. I could stand folding and putting it way where we couldnt admire it so I hung it so that puppy is hanging in her crib and she can look at all the bright colors. Last night after I changed her crib sheet and got all of her new stuffed animals position back in her bed I laid her down and she looked all around her bed, saw her quilt, breathed deeply and fell into a deep sleep until this morning. I think it was ultimate relief to be back in her bed. I knew how she felt though. I was so glad to be back in my house with my kitchen and bathroom and space. I am a homebody which I can thank my dad for, as he is one too. So getting back to my house is always a relief for me, and now even more with a little one.
As I said earlier she had a shower this weekend but I feel terrible because in all the comotion I forgot to take a picture of her in her shower dress. It was the cutest Ralph Lauren dress I got for $9.50 on sale...(go me) It was green stripped with smocking with little pink roses. It had two layers with a little lining so it made it full and a little white collar. She looked like the sweetest little angel baby. The preacher at the church said he wanted to eat her cheeks off...I understand James. That poor baby has me attached to those little cheeks all the time. Infact I think that is what I miss most while I am at work. Sucking her little cheeks, while breathing her sweet little lavendar smell in. Oh babies are great!
Well back at work on another manic monday and lunch is now officially over. So I must return to my design work. Happy Monday!

Struggling today...

2005-09-21T06:32:00.000-07:00

It was SO hard to drop her off this morning at day care, all though she didnt seem to mind as she flopped fast asleep in her crib that I have equipped with stuffed animals and blankies that smell like home. My dad has always told me to do what I feel I have peace from the Lord about, but honestly I dont know what I feel a peace about when it comes to this issue. I feel sad and melancholy about leaving her all day...ALL DAY!! I feel irritated that someone else gets to enjoy my baby all day and that they probably dont enjoy but just care for. But I feel anxious and fearful about giving up an entire income, car and gas and insuranace. It just feels like alot when you start to take it all away and I am just left at home. I love my job and the income, but I definately love my baby more. It is just a daily struggle. I pray and I pray and I dont feel an answer from the Lord yet. Maybe no answer is the answer. Maybe the peace is that I can continue to take her to work and not worry about her since I feel good about the day care she is at. Sometimes I just wish my phone would ring and God would be on the other end and say, "ok Katie here is what I want you to do. This is the best thing for your life." But I just have to listen for that still small voice and hope that I am hearing it correctly. Right now I feel like I am even though I miss her little cheeks and her smell and her cute smiles that she has started giving me and listening to her coo and talk to me. She is such a sweet little happy baby, with the exception from about 9-10:30 every night when she just wants to be held constantly...but I really dont mind that either. I couldnt ask for more and the Lord has blessed me so much with my beautiful family and a wonderful job and employer, maybe that is the peace. All is well and good and I should say thank you and that be enough of an answer. Who knows...

Our first day of school...

2005-09-08T14:54:00.000-07:00

Chloe started at day care today, or as I like to call it "school" it makes it sound better to me and doesnt make me feel like a bad mom. Then I feel like she is learning and not just being babysat by someone other than me. I went and fed her at lunch, this little one sleeps so much I am not even sure she realizes I am gone, I hope not anyways, it would crush me if she thought I had left her forever! She did so good and was so brave...unlike her mom who cried the next two blocks to work. I hope each day gets easier. There is only four little ones in her class right now so she gets some extra special love and attention. Plus she is so cute that the teacher likes her. She is a wonderfully content baby and loves to eat and look at dad and I from about 9-12 at night. She didnt get the memo that night time is for sleeping. Apparantly in the nursery at the hospital she was mis informed by another baby! Her hair is not falling out but it is getting longer, bows are more possible and since her face is filling out so nicely they are looking really cute on her:) I am sure all the baby news is boring. With all that said about day care, it is sure good to be back at work. I go crazy being trapped in the house for to long and everyone seems glad to have me back which makes me feel really good. So the days plot along as she turned six weeks today!

Not Much To Say

2005-09-03T20:38:00.000-07:00

Mommys favorite

Nothing exciting to say just a few photos so everyone can see how much she is changing. She is getting bigger and more beautiful everyday. We are obsessed with taking her picture. My favorite picture is the one of her sitting up. Such a sweet angel face.

4 Weeks ago today

2005-08-25T21:14:00.000-07:00

Four weeks ago today I was at the hospital looking at the beautiful little face God had created inside me. Tonight I look over her cradle edge and see this beautiful little face that has chubbied up so nicely. I cant believe it has been almost a month. She is a wonderful little angel. So content and happy...as long as our tummy is full. I feel so lucky to be the mom of such a beautiful healthy baby and the wife of such a sweet handsome man. (sorry Jeremy if I havent told you enough how wonderful you are)
I told my mom tonight that sometimes I feel like two people-Mom Katie and Coworker Katie. I love my job as a mom, but I love my job as marketing director. I definately know which is more important to me, but I miss my job a whole lot. I love my boss, my office, the people I work with, but OH MY GOSH I am going to miss her so much when she has to go to day care, even though I feel like she is going to the best place in town. I will pine for her ( to use an Amber term!) She is just so precious. The best thing I have ever done besides marrying the man who helped make her. :)
Well at 11:20 in the evening and I am waiting for her to wake up for her last feeding for the night. I will post this picture so everyone can see her precious kissable face!
Sweet baby! Looking at Mommy!

On My Mind

2005-08-20T16:32:00.000-07:00

Well Chloe is 3 weeks old as of Thursday at 5:05 and I cant believe it has already been three weeks. I think about it now and since I was induced at 38 weeks at the time it seemed like pregnancy was never going to end and since my doctor was merciful he went ahead and let me have her (knowing all was well) but now here we are and I have a three week old baby. Jeremy and I just weighed her on our scale because we are convinced that she is alot heavier and she eats like a champ and she was 8.5 lbs according to that. So if I would have carried her full term she could have been 8 lbs solid...thank God for potocin, but also I wonder if I would have had her on time or if I would still be pregnant. First my fear was having her to early and then my fear was her never coming out! Now I look over at her and her daddy (the twins) and what a beautiful little family I have. Thank you God for my beautiful husband and baby. Funny thing...it is like having two of the same thing since they look so much alike. Her hair is lightening sometime, so there are times when I think she may have gotten a little Etheredge through my brother who is a blonde with a red goatee, but then Jeremy told me his brother was blonde when he was a baby and now he is an auburn...so maybe it is just another meeks trait coming out. Not that there is anything wrong with that, but for all the work I did carry this cute thing around for nine months you would think that it would look like me a little...maybe it will be in her precious personality:)
Ok enough about baby, here are other things on my mind besides baby...I hate it that people disappoint you in life, and ironically I am half mad at myself. In life you arent perfect, you make mistakes, you try to learn from those and move on. I guess you just expect people to understand that you are only human. I say this for a reason. There was a particular person in my life at a prior job, she was a great friend and I loved her dearly. When I left my job it was not on the best terms and apparantly I hurt this person. I didnt realize it at the time, but I guess I hurt her pretty bad. She has not called me or checked on the baby and I guess she is one of the few people at that job that I would have loved to show her off to, but apparantly I messed up to bad. I just disappoints me in myself and in the fact that she cant forgive a decision that was best for me and for my family. If it was something else I hate that too. I just wish she valued our friendship enough to talk to me instead of shutting me out. I am human I make mistakes.
I am also thinking about our jobs (mine and Jeremy) maybe there is somewhere else we are supposed to be...well atleast Jeremy. Lord knows he is our provider. I want him to have to best career opportunities and I dont want the city we live in to hold him back. I pray that we are where God wants us to be financially and spiritually. We have worked hard to have a God centerd marriage. We got married three years ago when we were in school and we probably should have waited because it took us some time to figure out what true selflessness was. I think after meeting Chloe we are REALLY understanding. Anyways, this are just random thoughts thrown out to all who read this shabby little blog.

Things that Amaze me...

2005-08-06T20:52:00.000-07:00

Well first and foremost on the list of things that amaze me is the new little life of my daughter. She is the most beautiful thing and the best thing I have ever done. I am amazed with the Bourlands how they can be so strong in their grief. I look at Chloe and cant even understand or fathom what they are going through. Happy Birthday Brody. How great the people at my work are and how they have cared for me and watched out for me during my pregnancy. I thank God everyday for taking care of me when I found my job.My mom and dad and the way they love their children...thanks for that! It amazes me that Chris Doggett reads my blog...Sorry Chris...but who would have thought that we would be such avid bloggers. And last but not least this little face... I cant believe I carried this and that God made and formed such a beautiful little being in me...

What do you think of the bunny slippers???

She is HERE!!!

2005-08-01T14:08:00.000-07:00

She is here. Chloe Grace Meeks arrived Thursday, July 28th weighing in at 6lbs 11.2 oz and 19 1/2 inches long. She is so beautiful to her daddy and I and everyone thinks she looks like Jeremy. I would have to agree, good thing that I think he is so handsome. The doctor decided to induce me at 38 weeks so that my blood pressure stayed good and I did not become any more uncomfortable. According to him I was..."all baby." Things couldnt have gone smoother and I feel great! I posted a few pictures against my mothers will...she thinks that some robber is going to come get her. Well here she is in all her beauty we cant believe how much we love her. She is eating great just like her daddy and sleeping great just like her daddy...I guess she is like her daddy! We are glad she is here and there is not denying she is a Meeks baby. Maybe that Etheredge gene will show up one day...probably in her temper...uh oh! Hope you all enjoy the picture. Just a note to any stalkers out there... stay away from us or I will hurt and mame you. There mom does that make you feel better. My favorite pic is the one of her and her daddy. We will post more as she continues to change. Thanks for all the prayers and support.

Mimi and Chloe
Daddy and Chloe ...about 5 hours old
Mommy and Chloe...about 5 mins old..first feeding
sweet little angel face...it is her daddy!!

12 days and counting...

2005-07-21T19:24:00.000-07:00

Quick prego update...we are at 12 days and counting until the scheduled induction, despite my ever growing number of contractions I have felt great. We are looking forward to her being here and are just trying to stay calm and not freak out to much that we are going to be parents!

Two weeks and counting....

2005-07-20T18:11:00.000-07:00

My offical due date when I went to the doctor for my FIRST prego check up was August 11th (+ or- 5 days) this seemed like forever away especially since I was just 4 weeks pregnant and worried the pregnancy wouldnt make it...but here we are and after my appointment yesterday where I complained enough that I am sure my doctor was thinking about sedating me he agreed to induce me in two weeks...so unless miss chloe decides to make her appearance early on her own and as long as she and I co-operate and work together we will have a little girl on August 4th! Yippee! I cant believe I am saying this but I am so excited to see her it doesnt even matter how miserable I feel, although it will be nice for all my organs to move back into normal position. To answer Chris I havent had things that I crave, just things that I love that make me sick. The nauseau is back again but not as bad and I am just sore and tired all the time. Amber, however did you find me??? I read your blog and I appreciate you thinking about me, I have wanted to run up there and see you and Jacy but finding the time seems unreal (like you dont understand that) but I promise I will call when she is here and you can relay the message to the Judge and Susan. J and I loved her pics on your blog, she is absolutely precious! TO CUTE! Well we are excited and in a daze that her arrival is so close. I wonder everyday, probably every minute what she will look like...i guess soon we will know. For now I will survive the 13 days I have left and try to enjoy pregnancy...ha ha! Ya right! Everyone that reads keep your fingers crossed that she will cooperate and be ready to come. If she isnt I will do this as long as they make me. With her being my baby it would surprise me if she was stubborn on purpose and made me carry her until Christmas....ahhhh....oh the nightmare! Thats it for the update! Thanks to those who read...all two of you...Chris have your parents figured out blogging yet? You would think it was a foreign language to mom and dad...how in the world did BST get his mom to start blogging?

The Count Down has Commenced

2005-07-14T07:05:00.000-07:00

I found that title appropriate seeing how we also await to shuttle launch. Growing up in Houston I guess I always liked shuttle launches, we lived real close to NASA and when they would come back from space they would fly over my elementary school. I thought it was cool atleast! Anyways, Chloe's arrival is upon us, she is weighing in at approximately 5.5, but that is just according to what is "normal" and although I am ashamed to admit it, I have never been normal. But the point is she and I are doing wonderful according to the male doctor, who has never carried a baby and so it somewhat confused as to what wonderful is. Knowing we are literally in the homestretch gives me hope that I will indeed survive my first pregnancy. Although I have hated almost every minute of it, I will say that the excitment of waiting to see her little face and hear her sweet scream will be worth it. I enjoy feeling her move and know how big she is getting, but I cant wait to see those little fingers and toes, and know that there are ten of them and to see her wiggle and squirm out here. My nephew said (who is four) that he wants to be first to hold her but he would let me since she is my baby, but when I ask him if he was going to kiss all over her face, he said..."that is distusting and gwoss, the doctor will have just cut her out of your belly. how will the doctor get your stomach all back in after he cuts you in half to get her out?" My answer, "God just made girls so that we could have babies." I figure it best not to traumatize at such a young age. He does however think that as soon as she gets home he will take a bath with her...well cross that bridge of disappointment later. I am excited to see all of my nieces and nephews reactions although his are normally the most comical because of his age. My sister is worried about one thing...when can she hold her. I have promised everyone they will get their fair share, but Jeremy and I are pretty sure we wont hold her for a few days with that promise! :) Needless to say we are excited and waiting to meet this little girl. Well sorry, to one one blog reader, that i havent updated, I have gotten my energy back and everyone says that I am nesting. I hate that word, for anyone who actually knows me, they know that I am an organizational, ocd, freak and that everything has its place, this is just the old me coming out, not some new form on mommy dom~ I am not nesting, just feeling back to myself, and hopefully, although I am pretty sure Jeremy doesnt feel the same, I am hoping to feel even more like myself in the next few weeks. I just think for him it means actually having to hang his clothes up again and keep things more picked up! :)

Little Girls...

2005-05-24T13:07:00.000-07:00

I always thought I would be the best "boy mom", I consider myself a not so girlie girl! I mean I was a cheerleader, I wore bows and have never been big on playing in the sand...but I love baseball (little, college or big league), I have spent many a Sunday at the Astrodome watching the Houston Oilers play football, I can wrestle with the best of them, and thanks to the men in my family farts dont bother me and in the correct company I dont mind competind in a good flatulence competition...not on the way to brownwood texas in a van with my whole family! :0 ButI couldnt wait to have a boy and have him in little league and pop warner football, and wrestle with him in the living room. I looked forward to J being able to teach him hunt and fish and all the fun boy things that guys get to do...but as it turns out...God thinks that I will be better prepared for a girl first. I have had to change my way of thinking a bit, but I will say there are not many color options for girl clothing...just pink...I mean whatever happened to red and lime green, those are cute colors too! But I have had to come to terms with the fact that my sweet little girl will have an innate sense to know how to roll her eyes, talk back, and have major attitude. She will be on the phone, like boys and have fights with little girls. Ugh! I am pretty sure she wont be a ballerina, if anyone has seen the way our families our built, long, lean and full of grace has never been used in any description, but there is a good chance that powerful legs and stockey build has been heard. So hopefully she will like gymnastics so that I can show her a few tricks...but I think I will be an ok girl mom, and although boys are less emotional and tend to not be as dramatic, I think we will survive and if she wants, I can show her how to properly roll her eyes to get the fullest effect.