The Wardlow Family Journal

One Month Old

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:07:00 +0000

John Maxwell at One Month Old:

9 pounds 7 ounces

21.5 inches

75% in height

50% in weight

25% head circumference

AND, OF COURSE, EVEN MORE PRECIOUS AS EVER!!!

I Want To Feel Christmas Like A Child

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 13:33:00 +0000

My Christmas as a child...

When we were little, my parents took us to Texas every year to celebrate Christmas. My Mom's family lived in Texas and we would spend two weeks with my grandparents on a ranch in Brackettville, Texas. This ranch was the "headquarters" for the entire Jones Family. There were six houses on the ranch, five of which were occupied. Four sisters and one brother all lived on this ranch with their families. My mom never lived on the ranch but her parents moved there after she grew up. This was my grandmother, Oma's, home place. Every year my parents would pack our massive Econoline van with four kids, six (or more like sixteen!) suitcases, billions of Christmas presents and of course mom's fried chicken that we ate on our two-day drive to heaven! Instead of going to the beach or snow skiing, we went to Texas and to us, there was no other place we wanted to be!

I never thought about it when I was little but now that I am older I realize that my Dad was so generous to my Mom for letting us go to Texas every year for Christmas. He never complained or fussed about not being able to spend the holidays at our home in Georgia with our Georgia family. He told me one time that he figured that we got to spend every day and every other holiday with his family in Georgia, so it was only fair that we have Christmas with our Texas family.

Every year my Great Aunt Bonnie would gather the whole ranch at her home for the big family Christmas party. It was at one of these parties where I first remember actually meeting Suzanne Steece, who most of my readers know from her quad blog. We would gather in her living room and sing Christmas carols as my Aunt Bonnie played the piano... she had the most beautiful voice. We would also celebrate Suzanne's grandmother's birthday. All other evenings at the ranch were spent in someones living room, usually my grandmother or my Great Aunt Sybill's. All of the adults gathered and talked for hours upon end. Us children would either be playing spotlight or creating some sort of skit or "play" for all of the adults to watch at the end of the night.

During the day we would shoot bb guns and ride mopeds... and at night my uncle Boot would usually organize a massive game of spotlight. On Christmas Eve we would gather at my great grandmother's home (the unoccupied house) and we would have Christmas Eve dinner. I remember playing Chinese Christmas and I remember always hearing "Santa's bells" ringing outside which was just a way to excite us kids and make us want to go to bed. Every Christmas Eve my cousin Shara and I would plot how we were going to catch Santa in the act. We always fell asleep before our plan fell through!

Christmas morning was the best! I spent every Christmas morning as a child at Oma and Opa's with my cousins and their families. My grandparents would make coffee for the adults and I think they also made breakfast but I was always to excited to think about eating. A large wooden curtain would close off the kitchen from living room. The adults would always take forever getting all the cameras ready and everything perfect before the curtain would open. The room would be transformed and their would be presents all the way from one side of the room where my grandmother's tree was to the stairs that we trampled down. All of our Santa presents were layed out for all to see! Everyone had their spot they sat in every year to open presents and I always sat next to my Shara. The next couple of hours were spent with paper flying everywhere and everyone screaming and laughing and so excited. You could always hear my brother over everyone, "Daddy, look!" (As if my dad didn't know what Santa brought us!) He always sat on the couch. My sister Tiffany and cousin Kitten would always pass out the presents (and they were very avid that this was THEIR JOB!) and we would spend hours laughing and opening... and then eventually playing with everything we bought. There were so many of us, it was so loud and obnoxious but so much fun. My mom and dad, and my grandmother would sit next to a huge stack of their presents that were still unopened, and watch all of us kids and our excitement. I always remember my grandmother being the last one still opening a huge stack of presents. I thought every family spent Christmas this way, with their extended family. It wasn't until I was in high school that I ever remember having a Christmas at home with just my immediate family.

I loved Christmas in Texas more than anything the world. As I try to put into words what it was like, I really don't feel like I can paint near as beautiful of a picture as it actually was in real life. It has been a long time since my grandmother passed away but I can close my eyes and see her and remember these amazing mornings spent with her and my grandfather. Every year I can't help but think about my cousins and wish they were opening presents right next to me. I want this kind of Christmas for Brooks and Max. It was so exciting and so meaningful. Through all the presents, parties, gatherings and excitement we always remembered the real meaning of Christmas and that is why we were able to gather together every year... to celebrate Jesus' birth. And a celebration it most definitely was! So, when I heard this Third Day song called "Christmas Like A Child" I could not help but think about Texas.

I want to feel Christmas, how it used to be

With all of its wonder falling on me

This season has felt so empty, oh for quite a while

I want to feel Christmas like a child

I want to see snowflakes fall to the ground

My brothers and sisters all gathered around

Singing "Away In A Manager" as we sit by the fire

I want to feel Christmas like a child

It's been so long now, I can't say

Just when I lost my way

But I'm going back to how it was

When this day meant everything

And we spent our time remembering

The baby Child born for us

It's all about Jesus, asleep in the straw

This infant, this King, this Savior for all

So I don't need bells to be ringing

'Cause I'll join with angels singing

Gloria

And I can feel Christmas like a child

I want to feel Christmas like a child...

Introducing John Maxwell

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:01:00 +0000

John Maxwell Wardlow

Born October 14, 2009

7 pounds 1 ounce

20 3/8 inches long

4:24 pm

Dark Brown Hair

Precious as EVER!

Three weeks ago we welcomed our second little angel boy in to the family! I am finally getting around to writing a blog all about sweet Max, the pregnancy and the birth. I obviously have a lot of catching up to do!!!

The Pregnancy: Max's pregnancy flew by and went very smoothly. I gained 25 pounds total and had more heartburn than I could have ever imagined! When I think back to this pregnancy I will always think of sleepless nights downing Tums! I assumed the constant heartburn would mean that Max would have hair, and sure enough he does! Overall, the pregnancy went by in a blink of an eye and as I stare at my new little baby boy I can't believe he is already here!

The Name: Oh, the name. If you know me very well you know I take the task of naming our children extremely seriously! To the point where I am 100% positive I drove many close family and friends absolutely insane. John is obviously my husband's name but it is also a big name in both of our families. My great grandfather was John Oliver Michael, hence the name of the wedding facility that my parents own and that I work at The John Oliver Michael House. John's mothers side of the family also had a John, whom my husband was named after. Maxwell is John's fathers middle name and "Max" is his great great grandfather's name. So this little sweetie has quite the "family name" and just BELIEVE me when I tell you it was a very hard decision. I always knew if we had another boy it would be a challenge and a challenge it was!!!

The Birthday: We were able to choose Max's birthday! Dr. Leach said we could induce as early as Sunday, October 11th. We wanted Thursday the 15th but the doctor made out of town plans (not cool!), so we basically were able to choose a date from Sunday the 11th through Wednesday the 14th. John wanted it to be close to the end of the week as possible and I wanted to either do Sunday or Wednesday. I wanted Sunday because I was ready to hold my sweet baby but I wanted Wednesday because it was closer to his due date. So we went with Wednesday, October 14th.

Interesting fact: When choosing an induction date it came down to the 11th and 14th. The 11th of October is Max Wardlow (John's great great grandfather's birthday) and the 14th is John's dad's birthday. So in the 365 days of this year it actually came down to the two days that are also the birth days of the two grandfather's who share Max's name. That sounds so confusing, did you follow that one!?

The Labor and Delivery: The labor and delivery went absolutely wonderful! Max's big brother Brooks paved quite the way for our little 7 pounder. I was induced around 8 am Wednesday morning. Contractions came IMMEDIATELY and I asked for the epidural shortly after. One contraction made me nauseated and that was enough for me to request the drugs! I do not tolerate pain very well, let's just be honest! We basically waited on the doctor to come check me. We thought he would be in at noon but he actually came at 2 pm. He broke my water and went back to his office. After he broke my water I kept telling my sister that I felt like something was happening but I decided to just wait on the nurse because she said she would be in to check me in 30 minutes. When she came to check me he was crowning! So, we called the doctor and the nurse prepared herself to deliver the baby without my doctor. Thankfully, Max held out and one doctor arrival and quick push later, he was born! PS: I am so pleased with my decision to switch doctors. I was sad to not have the same doc deliver both boys but Dr. Leach was awesome and I know he played a huge part in making the pregnancy and delivery go so great!

Afterwards: Funny thing about having a second child. For me, everything has been ten times easier. The pregnancy, the labor and delivery, recovery and nursing him. After I had Brooks I felt like everything was super fast and easy... until I had Max! I felt great shortly after his arrival and everything since then has gone very well. He is such a good baby! And Brooks is such a good big brother!

Big Brother Brooks: Brooks loves little Max so much. I often find him helping him with his pacifier, covering him up and mostly giving him slobbery open mouth kisses. The first few days at home were pretty rocky because Brooks had pink eye so he was not able to get close to Max. It was hard for him to understand why he couldn't get near him. Now he is used to him and calls him "Maxey" or "My Max." He is very protective of his little brother and while I have to constantly remind him to be gentle with Max, he has taken to him very well and I do not think of him as jealous at all. I feel like he is just as excited to have Max here as we are and he is a super sweet big brother. Yesterday I was putting makeup on in my bathroom and Max was in his bouncy. I looked over and Brooks was covering him with his blanket (which is a huge improvement, usually he takes his blanket away), and he leaned over and kissed Max on the forehead and said "I wuv you, Maxy." Talk about melting my heart!

I have a new computer that is photo free, but most of my readers have seen photos on FB or my sister's website. We are planning 1 month pics for little Max and I am so excited to get those done! I hope to be able to blog more often about our new little family of four but right now, I have to get back to my mom/wife/wedding planning duties!!!

Max at 34 weeks!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 23:59:00 +0000

Today Brooks and I ventured to my OB for Max's 34-week check up. As we were driving to the doctor, it struck me that two weeks had passed since I had last been there. It felt more like 2 days and it is just crazy to me how fast this pregnancy has progressed. Wedding season is back and I am glad I am ready for this baby because the next five weeks are going to fly by.

Our little baby is about 4 pounds and growing just fine! He was so cute today when the nurse was checking his heartbeat. He would move from one side of my body to the other depending on where the nurse would squeeze the cold gel. My belly would literally go flat on one side and it felt so cool! I love it and I am going to miss that feeling! She had to chase him to get his little heartbeat.

One thing I have held on to this entire pregnancy is the fact that I do not want to be induced this go around. Well, I thought I didn't. But when I spoke with my doctor and John today we decided if the baby did not come before the week of his due date we would induce. I feel confident in the decision. There are many reasons why I changed my mind and I am super excited we will be able to plan it out again. The main reason I did not want to be induced was because I thought my episiotomy was a result of being induced. But that is not the case at all and the doctor assured me that more than likely I would not need that procedure with the second baby since we've been there done that, so to speak! He made the comment that he rarely cuts episiotomy's and does not do them routinely and he did not think it would be an issue.

Another reason we are going to be induced is because my labor went extremely fast with Brooks. I was induced at 8 am, my water broke at 1 pm and I shot up from 3 centimeters to 10 centimeters and delivered him by 2:30. The doctor said that with many (not all, but many) second labors the delivery tends to run about 2 hours shorter. That said, I would rather be in the hospital, WITH MY EPIDURAL and prepared for this baby than heading to the hospital once my water breaks. Plus, with John having to plan around work and us planning on Brooks staying with my parents it would be better to have everyone packed and ready to go!

So, that said I am a planner and do like for things to be "ready" so I feel better about this. All my reasons for not wanting to be induced were not medically in line so I don't have to worry about that anymore. And Brooks' labor went so smoothly.

So with many prayers in tow, and even more excitement, we head towards the final month of this pregnancy and are planning to have our sweet baby the week of the 12th. Lord and baby willing, it will all go smoothly and flawless and our decision will be the right one!!!

Let Me Hold You Longer...

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:29:00 +0000

Yesterday I ordered Karen Kingsbury's children's book, "Let Me Hold You Longer" from Amazon. Karen is the author of the Redemption and First Born Series' that I have been reading. This children's book was inspired by a poem in "Remember," one of five books in the Redemption Series.

In this book, the mother Elizabeth Baxter is struggling with the fact that her son is getting married and moving away. She also has four daughters and she talks about how "a daughter is a daughter for life, a son is a son until he takes a wife." (I say bull to that, but that's just me being bitter!) Anyway, this poem turned children's book talks about how as parents we always document our children's "firsts" but very rarely focus on their lasts. I was literally bawling through out the entire poem. So, yesterday I decided to order it and add it to Brooks' book collection.

I know all you mommy's out there will appreciate it. This book would be a great gift for a new baby, a baby shower or even a graduation gift! Enjoy...

Long ago you came to me, a miracle of firsts,
First smiles and teeth and baby steps, a sunbeam on the burst.
But one day you will move away and leave to me your past
And I will be left thinking of a lifetime of your lasts…

The last time that I held a bottle to your baby lips
The last time that I lifted you and held you on my hip.
The last night when you woke up crying, needing to be walked,
When last you crawled up with your blanket, wanting to be rocked.

The last time when you ran to me,s till small enough to hold.
The last time that you said you’d marry me when you grew old.
Precious, simple moments and bright flashes from your past
Would I have held on longer if I’d known they were your last?

Our last adventure to the park, your final midday nap,
The last time when you wore your favorite faded baseball cap.
Your last few hours of kindergarten, those last few days of first grade,
Your last at bat in Little League, last colored picture made.

I never said good-bye to all your yesterdays long passed.
So what about tomorrow-will I recognize your lasts?
The last time that you catch a frog in that old backyard pond.
The last time that you run barefoot across our fresh-cut lawn.

Silly, scattered images will represent your past.
I keep on taking pictures, never quite sure of your lasts…
The last time that I comb your hair or stop a pillow fight.
The last time that I pray with you and tuck you in at night.

The last time when we cuddle with a book, just me and you
The last time you jump in our bed and sleep between us two.
The last piano lesson, last vacation to the lake.
Your last few weeks of middle school, last soccer goal you make.

I look ahead and dream of days that haven’t come to pass.
But as I do, I sometimes miss today’s sweet, precious lasts…
The last time that I help you with a math or spelling test.
The last time when I shout that yes, your room is still a mess.

The last time that you need me for a ride from here to there.
The last time that you spend the night with your old tattered bear.
My life keeps moving faster, stealing precious days that pass,
I want to hold on longer-want to recognize your lasts…

The last time that you need my help with details of a dance.
The last time that you ask me for advice about romance.
The last time that you talk to me about your hopes and dreams.
The last time that you wear a jersey for your high school team.

I’ve watched you grow and barely noticed seasons as they pass.
If I could freeze the hands of time,I’d hold on to your lasts.
For come some bright fall morning, you’ll be going far away.
College life will beckon in a brilliant sort of way.

One last hug, one last good-bye, one quick and hurried kiss.
One last time to understand just how much you’ll be missed.
I’ll watch you leave and think how fast our time together passed.
Let me hold on longer, God, to every precious last.

Ride Ride and Slide Slide!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 16:31:00 +0000

This weekend I had a Saturday afternoon meeting so I left Brooks with John. He loves being outside with his Daddy more than anything. On this particular day, I left with him playing in the Suzuki while John was finishing up a welding job on the muffler. Man, that sounds so redneck.

Anyway, he was in heaven playing in daddy's "ride ride" as he calls it. He usually gets upset when I leave but as I handed him his juice and crackers to snack on while John finished up he said, "Tay tu Mommy, bye bye!" No hesitation this time.

As I was driving home John kept calling me wanting me to hurry and watch what Brooks could do. He was on the neighbors playground set, a BIG play set, climbing up a very tall ladder and booking it down the slide as fast as he could, over and over and over again! Although he has climbed ladders and gone down slides before, he just seemed so much more grown up and capable this time. Just another sweet reminder that that he is growing up too fast and I really can't stop it!

I captured some cute pics on my phone of him in all of his slide glory... dirt caked on the face! Another reason he likes being outside with Daddy... Daddy lets him get dirty! Mommy let's him get dirty too, it just seems like he ALWAYS gets dirty when he is left with John!

Sliding on his tummy, whichever way he fell or twisted he went that way. As long as he was going FAST, he was happy!

Getting ready for take off!

Very dirty and very happy little face!

New Prayer

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 23:55:00 +0000

I interrupt my current reading session to bring you a precious prayer! I am currently reading the First Born Series by Karen Kingsbury. This summer I read the Redemption series, which I highly recommend, this is her follow up series to Redemption. For those of you who are not aware, Karen Kingsbury books are Christian Fiction and often quote Bible verses.

Anyway, every night before we turn out the lights we say a little prayer with Brooks. My favorite part of his bedtime is when he says, "Amen," even if he says it all slurry through his pacifier! Anyway, I was reading my book last night and read a small prayer that I love and want to memorize so I can say it to Brooks. Thought I would share it with you all, it is so simple but sweet...

"God, please now my future see, make it clear where I should be. Open windows, close the doors, not my will, my God, but yours."

Seven Years Ago, Today...

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 20:34:00 +0000

Seven years ago today, I was 20 years old working at the Georgia Club as a cart girl. It was the summer after my Sophomore year in college and I was two weeks away from making my big, exciting move to Nashville (well, technically Murfreesboro, but Nashville sounds way better!) I worked a long shift at the golf course on this day, seven years ago. My friend Kelly Marlowe talked me in to going downtown Athens with her that night. I was tired and REALLY just wanted to stay home but I was coaxed in to a night out on the town.

John was 22 and had moved from Athens to Arkansas where he was working on a rice farm. He was living the simple life, by the river in an old cabin. He came home to Georgia to help his parents move back to their old stomping grounds in Arksansas. He had gone downtown Athens the night before and was worn out from that night out. His friends talked him in to another night out out on the town...

I was wearing a black baby doll type shirt and a knee length blue jean skirt. Both conservative and cute but not my style right now! I had on a circular turqouise necklace I bought from Target. I loved that necklace!

Kelly DRUG me to Firehouse, a bar on Clayton Street. The first hour or so there was pretty dull until we found a group of folks we knew and starting hanging out with. I do remember sitting at a table and literally wanting to fall asleep I was so tired. Slowly, but surely, August 3rd turned to August 4th and it was two hours until closing time. I was talking to some random guy because I noticed he had a military tag on and I made some comment about it so he stopped me to talk. He was very friendly but he just kept talking and frankly, he was boring. I was looking for Kelly and thinking about how I was going to get away from this guy when I turned around and saw a vision... oh, I'm so dramatic. Little did I know that vision was...

MY FUTURE HUSBAND!

What I really saw was an old worn out Stetson that some guy was wearing. I turned back around to the guy who was still rambling and said, "Hang on one second." I turned around and walked right up to John. (So, I picked him up, just for the record!)

Well, at the time, I was not aware he would be my husband but he was standing there, tall and thin and very cute, and very tan. I remember everything he was wearing that night but the only thing that caught my eye was the old worn out Stetson. I had a "thing" for the cowboy/country look if you will! A phase, some people call it. He was wearing Levi's and a short sleeve button down shirt. He remembers not particularly liking what he was wearing that night. I walked up to him, took off his hat (how annoying, why did I do that?) and he said, "Why does every girl take off my cowboy hat."

Kind of embarrased, I put the hat back on his head and turned to walk away. "Wait!" he said. I turned back around and we started chatting. I remember trying to listen to what he was saying. Something about his dad being in a band and him coming home to help his parents move to Arkansas where he was living. I told him that I was just a couple of weeks away from moving to Tennessee. But all I could think about the whole time we were talking was, "I wonder if he's wearing cowboy boots." I remember I was standing very close to him because the bar was crowded and I really wanted to see if he was wearing cowboy boots. He remembers me awkwardly looking down and wondered why I was staring at his feet. It was dark and crowded, so it took me a while to figure it out but finally I saw them... Yes! Cowboy boots! (My my, I was young and apparently this was a very important attribute at the time!)

Kelly remembers me finding her and saying, "Kelly, guess what? I found my cowboy!" Can you believe seven years ago, RIGHT NOW, I was getting off of work and was about to meet my husband and the father of my two precious little boys? What a GREAT DAY! I'm SO glad John was wearing the hat that caught my attention and I am so glad Kelly coaxed me in to going out that night!

And just for the record, we must repeat the pick up line he used when he called me two days after we met. Kelli Magee, you remember this because you were with me! He called and my voicemail picked up and he said, "Hey girl, I was just wondering if you saw the sunset today, cause I ordered it for ya... this is John." Oh, wow... let's just say he better be glad he was wearing that Stetson!

Brooks wearing the hat that brought his mommy and daddy together!

And, We're Back!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 01:49:00 +0000

As I sit here at my computer tonight, I can't help but smile. The laundry is completely done (and has stayed that way ever since I decided it would;)), supper for tomorrow night is planned and ready to be cooked, my carpet just got cleaned, my husband just cut our grass and edged our yard. I bought pretty new plants and new mulch and weed-ate (ha!) for a good 4 hours. My hands are sore but they are worth it. I have totally junk-proofed our house. Like totally got rid of JUNK. I sent about 15 bags of clothes to good will. My husband and I cleaned out the garage and are getting ready to paint and pressure wash it to garage heaven! My floors our clean, my baby room for Max is set up and ready along with his large entourage of clothes from Brooks, Jack and Gabe. My closet is so organized. And the clutter is gone. THE CLUTTER IS GONE. THE CLUTTER IS GONE. If there is a piece of clothing that is not in season it is neatly boxed, labeled and will soon be stored and I am most happy about my new wrapping paper and "craft supplies" boxes! Oh, and today... we got our house BACK ON THE MARKET! WOO HOO!

Today, I was so tired of cleaning I called my neice and my mom in for reinforcement. Baleigh played with Brooks and mom and I tag-teamed and got finished in a flash. Thank you!!!

So, as you can see, for the past month and a half I have been nesting like I've never nested before. John calls it OCD but I call it just being a wife and mother. I have totally re-vamped my day, the way I do things. My schedule is so wild with a baby and a job that gives me so much freedom. (An awesome job at that!) I have taken up weekly meal planning around my coupon cutting. I try to get all of my wedding work done in the morning that way I stay on top of the emails and to-do's and do not get behind. It also helps me take new bride tasks and calls through out the day without getting behind. I finally figured out how to keep the laundry down and keep the house nice on a daily basis. No, it's not perfect all the time but the goal is that when it does need to get perfect fast, it's a whole lot easier to do!

In the midst of all of this I have also managed to get Brooks well acquainted with his big boy bed (he prefers a double!) and have even introduced him to the potty. All of this to prepare for our little guy who will arrive in October. My main goal was to get all of this done by the end of August because once September arrives the fall wedding season will be full-fledged and simultaneously, Max will arrive. I am hoping to coordinate all weddings up until the day I go in to the hospital. In the four weeks before Max is scheduled to arrive we have l 6 weddings. I hope to do all of them up until the day after he is due... which means it would be great if he came a day or so after his due date. And I know that is a far stretch but a girl can wish. No, I won't be able to handle the weddings all by my lonesome because the leg work is constant but I have a great family who has got my back! Honestly, the more weddings I miss the harder it is for me because instead of just executing the wedding I have to worry about not being there and passing all of the info on to someone else. It always works out fine because my sisters or mom take over and they are AWESOME, I would just rather take care of it myself since that is my job!

So, even though I haven't been slammed with weddings the past few weeks, I have managed to be productive and stay busy. I'm trying to plan at least 2-3 fun activities a week for Brooks to do whether it be a play date or just a fun getaway with mommy! He just has so much energy these days it is absolutely impossible to keep him contained for too long.

I am hoping all of this new organization will make things go smoother for our move which will be... when? Who knows, but if the house is clean and organized and practically already boxed up it will be whole lot easier with a newborn. Besides the fact that right after fall wedding season mania comes the holidays and then Brooks and John's birthday. I am nothing more than SO excited for this time in our life and I just want to be prepared.

In the midst of all of this, Brooks had definitely changed before our eyes. John and I crack up at him on a daily basis. His personality just gets more fun every day. He talks constantly, runs everywhere he goes and keeps his mama on her toes! I can hardly clean up one mess before he makes another! Just today he took his diaper off on his own, pooped on the bathroom floor and then got into my makeup and spread my new powder all over the bathroom floor. He won't poop in a slightly wet diaper and he tells me "tee tee" AFTER he does the duty. Oh and tee tee means #1 and #2 to Brooks. So, where was I during all of this, you ask? Cooking dinner. It got quiet and I knew something was off. So, I head to his room to find a little trace of powder down my just freshly mopped hall floor. But I am happy to say he is learning to clean up his toys and when he makes a mess he is not supposed to, I make him help me clean it up. I'm hoping this will help him make less messes, although he thinks it's funny to help me clean and I often find him running the mop or broom across the kitchen floor.

My next big project the baby comes is to put a little education in our daily routine. We always read to him before bedtime but since I decided not to put him in a little school for a few hours, a couple days a week (like we were contemplating,) I'd like to have a time during the day where I teach him. I've thought about having a theme every week like alphabet, farm animals, numbers, etc., and do our weekly activities around that. This may be a bit ambitious with a newborn on the way but if I keep it simple and fun, I think it would be good for Brooks. Luckily my oldest sister is a teacher so maybe she can give me some ideas!

Well, peace out for now! Hopefully my posts for now on will be filled with baby news and cute pics of our precious little guy! And if you got to the end of this with out falling asleep... MAJOR PROPS TO YOU!

A Very Simple Mother's Day

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Mon, 11 May 2009 18:22:00 +0000

Yesterday was a very relaxing and wonderful Mother's Day for all of the mom's in the Michael Family. We woke up Sunday morning a little late and rushed to get ready for church. About 10 minutes before we were to head out the door, my mom called and said they were skipping out on church. What!? It would definitely the first Mother's Day I have missed church but we decided to slow it down and just go to mom's for breakfast. Candice and her family where there and Jackson stopped by for a little while. Tiff and her family were at church so we ate breakfast and waited for them to arrive for lunch!

The rest of the day is pretty much summed up by this picture of Baleigh and Brooks.

We all sat around the pool, grilled out and watched all the kids play together. We pondered what it will be like 9 months from now with four more running around in the mix. Whew, just the thought wears me out but I can't wait! We spent about an hour trying to come up with a name for the new baby boy arriving in October but we were not successful.

We also visited a house down the road that was foreclosed. Big, beautiful, craftsman-style house. It is for sale now and since it has two kitchens, two master bedrooms and a pool surrounded by 5 acres, my sister Candice and I decided that we are going to sale our houses so we can buy this one, and our families can just live together. We laughed thinking how we could take turns cooking dinner and watching the kids for each other. The side by side tree swings and cute little brick well house in the front yard helped us make this decision. Now if we could just convince John and Justin!

We came home before dark and Brooks and I played and cuddled and fell asleep on the couch... while John and our neighbor worked on Suzy-Q. That's what I call the Suzuki!!!

All in all, the day was pretty much like most Sunday's for our family, with the exception of playing rookie and receiving fun gifts!!! I felt like should have given Brooks a gift for being the sweetest son and for making me a mommy!

Hope everyone had a wonderful Mother's Day as well!!!

Brains, Beauty and Spiritual Balance

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Tue, 05 May 2009 16:41:00 +0000

My friend Leah Catherine sent this to me and I found it to be very nicely written and worth sharing...

The greatest beauty secret has nothing to do with make-up. It's being a woman who delights in God. She looks for substance--a kind heart, a discerning mind and a strong faith--instead of being distracted by outward appearance.

A woman of style and substance is gracious and kind to all she meets. She lives her life from the heart, not her ego. She looks for the best in people and situations. She is savvy enough to know that people can let her down, but compassionate enough to understand why they do. She has taken a balanced view of life--serious without being stuffy, warmhearted without being over sentimental.

So go ahead and try a new hair-do or splurge on a stylish dress. Have fun and look your best. Never forget that true stlye is a reflection of her relationship with God. Brains, beauty and spiritual balance have it all over the latest trend and the hottest look.

Do not let your adornment be merely outward--arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel--rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorrutible beauty of a gentle or quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. 1 Peter 3: 3-4 NKJV

Baby Name

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 16:01:00 +0000

I have a confession. I woke up the other day and decided against Coleman for the baby name. Poor, poor John. He never changes his mind. Just like when we were going to name Brooks "Tanner," I just woke up one day and didn't want to use it anymore. I don't like "man" on the end of his name. And I don't want people to call him Cole and I know that will happen. So, the name is TBD. And if you know me you are not a bit surprised I changed my mind!

It's for the boys...

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 04:47:00 +0000

I think my husband is really excited about having two boys. And I say "think" totally sarcastically. And I don't blame him. He will have two sons, close in age to take hunting, fishing, camping, you name it. I know he is already dreaming of soccer games (he played soccer) and whatever else "the boys" choose to do in their spare time which I know in his mind include helping him remodel houses on a daily basis.

So, I'm only 14 weeks pregnant and the examples he has used the past couple of weeks referring to "the boys" is just so funny. So far we have talked about trucks, four wheelers and their college savings. It used to be Brooks, Brooks, Brooks... now it's "the boys!" He now has an excuse for everything "boy" he has ever wanted to buy. And he's not going to purchase it for himself. It's for "the boys." One who is 15 months old and one who is in utero. So, we are selling our completely family-oriented Ford truck that has a large back seat and a built in tv and buying a 1988 Suzuki Samarai. Won't it be fun to drive "the boys" around in it? And won't it be fun for them to drive around in? Sure, since it will be a good 30 years old by the time they can even think about driving. But it totally makes sense because one day it can be "for the boys."

Whatever... ;)

Lately...

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 21:36:00 +0000

Spring time is here and in our world "Spring" also spells BUSY! AKA: wedding season! On top of weekend weddings, we are trying to work on the Oconee house in our spare time. It remains a mystery as to when we will actually move in (or get close to moving in) but I am fully confident that the day will come!

Hmmm.... so what's been happening? Well, first and foremost we are so blessed to have three new babies in the Michael Family, sweet Jack, Gabe and Isabella. The birthday was an amazing experience and I could go in to details but they would not do it justice! We stop in every once in a while to peak at little Isabella and sweet Jack, and can't wait until cousin Gabe comes home soon. My AMAZING sister-in-law is nursing and pumping for three premature babies, one who is still in the NICU. I say "amazing" because I am truly amazed that she is doing this! I will never, EVER complain about nursing again. I struggled with one baby. I don't know how she is doing it but I know it has a lot to do with the fact that she wants the best for her little miracles and refuses to give them anything less. As a side note, I would also like to say that I think my brother is SUCH a wonderful father. I haven't been able to be around him and the babies as much as I will in the future, but I can see it. He is very protective, duh! It reminds me of how he was so protective of Candice, Tiffany and I growing up - just magnified by millions! And from what I hear and see he reminds me of my Dad, which means he'll be the best dad in the world!

Easter was very sweet. We spent the night at my parent's house and the Easter Bunny put Maebree, Millie and Brooks' basket in the same spot he used to leave ours when we were little! He even hid eggs in the front yard just like the good ole days! After the morning hunt, we went to church and then to brunch. After brunch it was on to the JOMH for our annual family (and some friends!) Easter egg hunt. Brooks was definitely more involved this year. Holidays are so much fun with children - they are fun with out children too, but I thrive on making these times as special and meaningful as my parents did for us growing up! I think the main goal is to realize the real meaning behind these holidays, and then everything else falls in to place with all of the fun traditions!

Next topic of discussion - baby boy #2 who we can also call by his name, Coleman Michael. We chose Coleman because we love it and Michael, for obvious reasons! Now, I post this name with a small disclaimer stating I have full authorization to change my mind! As many of you know Brooks was "Tanner" for a good 3 months. I don't think we will change our mind this time but we'll see. Also, many have asked if we will call him Cole. I would prefer to call him Coleman although I am certain Cole may come out every now an then as a nickname, but we will call him Coleman! In naming the little guy, we wanted to stick to our preference of him having his own first name and a family middle name. "Brooks Thomas" came out of us loving the name Brooks and "Thomas" being John's middle name, his grandfather's first name and my grandfather's middle name. This mirrors "Coleman Michael" for those reasons! Regarding the pregnancy: they say I am pregnant but I sure don't feel pregnant. Thank you, Lord, for blessing me with sick-free pregnancies! Once again, I love being pregnant! As I head towards 15 weeks, my waist line is expanding a bit faster than it did with my Brooks. All in all, Coleman is treating his mama good and is growing well!

Now, on to my sweet Brooks. I never imagined one little person could bring two people so much joy but he continues to amaze us with his precious little ways, every single day. Besides being as cute as pie, he has an adorable personality. Right now he is currently obsessed with Barney and calls him "Bar" or "Barby." He watches Barney in Daddy's truck and points to the television and yells "BAR!!!" I do not like him to watch tv very often, but it is nice to have a little out when I need to get some emails out to brides or get the house picked up. Atleast I know he is not getting in to something he shouldn't -- which he does often! Whew, don't even get me started on child-proofing the house. I don't think it's possible to fully child proof our house from this little guy. He is NON-STOP! Other than that he wants to go "OUT" - LOVES to be outside. I could really go on and on about all the new things he does every day, but I won't! Today was his 15-month well visit. He has lost a pound and gotten two inches taller, due to walking and being so active of course.

As always, I understand if absolutely no one made it to the end of this post but if anything, it's here for me to remember these days that are absolutely flying by. I have a very good feeling that with wedding season in full swing, baby #2 will be here before we know it!

BOY oh BOY!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 15:45:00 +0000

This morning I went to my 12-week OB appointment. I was very excited to get there and find my favorite nurse from my old OB, now working for my new OB! I was also very shocked and very excited to find out the sex of our new baby, at only 12 and a half weeks pregnant! There is a definite little turtle sticking out between my very active little one's legs! The ultrasound tech was first like, "Well, that is probably a boy." As she and I (being the expert I am) continued to examine my sweet little baby, we came to the conclusion that is was "DEFINITELY" a boy! She did say not to paint any rooms blue yet because she can not give a 100 percent guarantee until 18 weeks, but it is quite obvious. We found the umbilical cord and concluded that the little stump was not the umbilical cord. She also stated that little girls have a little something sticking out in that area but it does NOT reach mid-thigh!

I have been all giggles since I found out. I did not think I would be finding out this soon and it is so fun knowing this early. As much as we would have loved to have welcomed the diversity of a precious little girl to our family, I have always imagine myself being the mommy of boys. I am so excited I can't see straight. The thought of my little Brooks having a little brother and best buddy for the rest of his life just thrills me. They will be so close in age and will literally grow up together. John was very excited as well. He couldn't believe I was calling with news that we were having another sweet little boy. He, like me, could not stop laughing. He was especially proud that the babies manhood was "already noticeable at only 12 weeks!" I have been telling him this whole time that I felt like I was growing another little fishing buddy for him, but he thought it was a girl! Mommy's instinct was RIGHT!!!

Did I mention I LOVE my new doctor? I am so happy with our decision to switch practices. Dr. Leach has ENCOURAGED me to keep running. I told him that I have not been running since I found out I was pregnant and he said that is fine, just to start back slowly and I will be fine. As long as I am not over doing it, then the baby will be just fine. He said I could run as long as it felt comfortable to me. Where was he during my first pregnancy!?

Say What!?

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:32:00 +0000

So, as most of you already know, we finally have a due date for baby #2. The official due date is October 18th - a great day in my book because it is my fabulous sister, Candice's birthday! There are a lot of family birthdays that month and we will do our best to try to dodge them all, but we can't promise anything!

My due date means I am 9 weeks and 4 days pregnant today! So, we still have plenty of time to prepare for our new little bundle of love. I have to share this funny story with y'all, totally in light of the fact that my sister in law is about to deliver triplets - and for Suzanne. Girl, you're gonna love this!

I am going to a new doctor this time who also happens to be the same doctor Jill goes to - thank you, Jill! So the ultrasound tech knows Jill very well and she knew I was her sister-in-law.
So, anyway we walk in to the room and Allie (the ultrasound tech) tells me that since I am unsure of how far along I am, she is going to try to do the ultrasound on my belly just in case I am far enough along to go there. So, she did and I was. She showed us our little baby and let us listen to the heartbeat. Then she said, "Oh my!" So she goes on to ask me if Jill is my sister and I tell her that no, Jackson is my brother. Then she says, "Well, I just want you to know that you could have had twins!"

Me: "What!?"
John: "What!?"
Allie: "Yep, you actually released TWO eggs when you got pregnant but only one of them was fertilized, so you aren't having twins. But you could have. "

Isn't that interesting!? So, I made her check a couple of extra times just to make sure there were not two babies. Just one, but I found that to be very interesting! I asked her if this is common and she said that she does see girls who produce two eggs and only have one baby, that is not uncommon. But it is a big deal to produce two eggs because that is how you end up with twins! We have no history of mulitples in our family so I found this to be very interesting!!! But, no twins. Close, but no cigar!

We are very excited about the new addition to our family! Brooks has already learned there is a baby in mommy's belly and to give it love with a sweet, gentle -- but BIG BROTHER hug!

Just for Pawpaw

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 01:13:00 +0000

Well, I have been trying to get Brooks to say his words on video for quite some time. NOT having luck in that department. Every time I grab the camera and get situated, he is over it and has moved on to the next thing! Today I was able to get him to say "Pawpaw" on camera. He can also say "ma ma ma" for Mamommie and "Ji" for his Aunt Jill. Out of all of the names "Paw Paw" and "Jill" are all I can really get him to say fully.

So, just for Paw Paw, here is a video of him saying your name! He can not wait to see you and the rest of the family again in May for Aunt Coco's wedding!

And, Jill, I will have you know after my camera cut off due to lack of space he said "Ji" like five times in a row. I can't belive the camera cut off!!!

Exciting News!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 16:52:00 +0000

That's right... Brooks is going to be a BIG BROTHER! Details to come!!! Our first ultrasound is next week, so we look forward to seeing our new addition to the family and showing Brooks the first pictures of his little brother or sister!!!

Shout Out to the Sister-in-law

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:01:00 +0000

Please keep Jill, Jackson and the babies in your prayers. Jill will be 29 weeks on Sunday and for the past week she has been having off and on contractions. Please keep them in your prayers as well as the doctors who will making important decisions for them during this time! They have been through so much to get to where they are today. I just pray that everything goes according to God's plan and that those precious babies are as healthy as can be when they enter this world. One thing is for sure, they have plenty of love awaiting them!

You can visit Jackson and Jill's blog by clicking here.

Thank you!!!

My Little Pick Up Man!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 20:23:00 +0000

We listen to music a lot. During breakfast, during bath time, in the car! We hardly ever watch tv during the day but boy do we dance! Brooks loves music and loves to dance. Here is a video of him from this week (the day after the walking video.) I was about to give him a bath and had itunes on! PS: we don't listen to redneck music all the time, but you all know I love my country music!!!

Wedding Blog!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 16:36:00 +0000

So, with wedding season right around the corner I decided to start a blog for the John Oliver Michael House. Please visit our blog at http://jomh.blogspot.com/ and let your friends know about it as well!

Walk This Way!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:32:00 +0000

Here is a small clip of our little rock and roll star walking! I was very low on memory space so I could only get a few seconds but he tends to plop down after a while any way. He walked around the house all day today, so it looks like he is about to take off!!! Please excuse his mis-matched outfit!

Personality Bloom

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 13:42:00 +0000

While Brooks may not be growing as fast as he did the first year, his personality has sprouted like a weed! HE IS SO MUCH FUN. I love it! It is hard to describe his actions, but I am mainly posting them so that I do not forget!

- He has taken the hugging game to a whole new level! Anytime I say something like "Love on Mommy" or "Love on Grandaddy" he lays his little head down as fast as he can on whomever he is loving and it's just so sweet!

- He also gives mommy lots of kisses. Although he has been doing this for many months, now when I say "Give mommy a kiss" he puckers up and smacks a big one on me! Melts my heart!

- His favorite game right now is pointing to mommy's eyes, nose, mouth, ears and hair. Except instead of pointing (like the girls did) he gives a big ole whack. I am definitely teaching him to be gentle but I have gotten my head smacked a few times in this game!

- He talks 90 miles an hour. He makes up words. He talks and talks and talks, and we have no clue what he is saying. His signature word sounds something like "da-doooooooowwww." He says it randomly, all the time. I have no idea what it means or where it came from. The other day we were watching the presidential news conference and he was staring at Obama on tv. I said, "That is your new president." He looked at me, let out this deep, sarcastic laugh and said, "da-doooowww!"

- He is definitely walking more now. It is such a slow process. If he has something to pull up on, he will walk as far as he can until he plops down. He is the fastest crawler I have ever seen!

- He is obsessed with my niece Baleigh. LOVES HER. When she walks in the room it's like the sky has parted, the sun is shining and the birds are singing. He can not get to her fast enough. He literally cracks up at everything she does. She will say "boo" very softly and he loses it.

- He also loves to play with all of the girls. He gets very excited every time we are all together... which is often! I can only imagine his excitement when the triplets are born and get old enough to play and he realizes... I HAVE TWO BOY COUSINS! Oh goodness, what fun is coming! I can definitely see a "Boys or Girls ONLY Club" in the near future. And my guess is that the boy's club will be lead by one of the triplets and the girls club will be lead by Campbell. Just my premonition!

- He tries to repeat short sentences like, "I love you." Very cute!

- He is so sweet to people in public. He smiles and sometimes laughs at any one that talks to him or looks at him. When they look at him and when they walk away from him he waves frantically. The other day I was getting a pedicure and he waved at this one young girl for a good hour. She was a good sport about it. Through out one trip to the grocery store, he will wave at a good 25 people and have many new friends before we leave the store!

- My favorite change is when we ask him a question he comes back with, "Eh" or "Hmmm?" He cocks his little head and awaits your response. Sometimes he goes crazy with it and says it over... and over... and over. He also answers many questions I ask him with a very solid NO as he quickly nods his head back and forth!

- He LOVES books. He laughs when I get them out. He favorite book was given to him by Baleigh and Campbell and it is called "Pete the Cat."

- New words in his vocabulary: nana (banana), juice, yum yum, uh-oh, HOT and book --- and basically anything we say that he feels like he wants to repeat! Anytime I get something out of the microwave or oven he announces, "HOT HOT!" The other day I was rolling my hair and he let me know the curlers were in fact, "HOT HOT!"

That's about it for now. I am going to try and figure out a way to upload a video I took of him yesterday. John was on rock band playing guitar and Brooks was going at it with the drum sticks. He really looked like he was playing and he even had pretty good rhythm! That tells me he must take after his Arkansas Grandaddy musically!

Car Seat Safety

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 18:37:00 +0000

Car crashes scare the mess out of me, especially when it comes to children. I have two personal stories I will share with you that will help you understand my EXCESSIVE fear of children and cars.

The first goes back to my college days, when I was running late to meet some friends for dinner. I was going down a hill, looking down at my cell phone (shamelessly) when I slammed on my breaks to stop from hitting a car in front of me. I lost control, crossed the yellow line and side swiped a minivan coming the opposite way. The whole crash was terrible and the officers could not believe no one was injured. The mini van and my car ended up very far away from each other, so I never met the driver. I was very shaken but held it together as I called my Dad and John to let them know of the incident. I was talking to the policeman and heard another officer on the scanner say to him, "Yes, the three children in the van are definitely okay, just shaken. No one is injured." I absolutely LOST it! No explanation needed.

The second story occurred during my Classic Center days when John lived in Bogart. This was two years ago this past Christmas. I was driving from his house to my parents house one morning. I came to a side road intersection to cross Hwy. 316. A car crash involving a small car and a transfer truck had just occurred. I will spare you the details of the crash but I will tell you that I watched a small boy, age 7, die on the side of the road. His mother used my cell phone as she frantically called her family. Her husband was lying about 50 yards away, unconscious. Their second son, a baby, was screaming as pedestrians carefully tried to remove him and his car seat out of the wrecked car. There was blood, screaming, crying, total chaos. I am not built to handle these situations, which is why I do not work at a hospital. I will never forget that mother's face. That little boy's mangled face. I think about it every time I pass that intersection. I think about that family every Christmas, every time I see a little Mexican boy with a bowl cut. It was absolutely horrible. Everyone at the scene assumed that the man and the older boy were not strapped in. The mother and the baby were strapped in and the baby was in a safe car seat that was installed properly.

I know those are two very long stories but they do lead to a point. When it comes to babies and cars, I am a fanatic, which is why I took an email that my friend Ansley sent me very seriously. It was in regards to car seat safety. When it was time for us to buy Brooks his new car seat I did my research on every brand and most every style. I bought him the one I thought was the absolute safest car seat made in the entire world! I had the company's representative show me how to install. At the end of the little tutorial, she told me Brooks could sit forward or rear facing, but rear-facing was the safest. She had, however, installed it front-facing. Since his spider legs were squished in the rear facing position, and since he was 21 pounds and a year old, I kept it facing forward, excited that he could now see Mommy and the outdoors while riding.

After reviewing all of the information on the link that Ansley sent to me today, I will be turning Brooks back around to be rear-facing. His car seat supports this for up to 35 pounds. He still only ways 21 pounds. Sure, his legs will be squished and he'll have to stare at the back seat for another year, but I would rather that than a broken neck. What gets me is through out all my research all I read about was side impact. What will protect him the most if there is side impact? I didn't think about slamming on breaks, neck injuries... AHHHH!

Here is an excerpt from the blog post that I read from this link that Ansley sent to me. I was shocked. "Because riding rear-facing does provide significantly more protection to children's heads, necks, and spines, the Academy does recommend it for as long as possible, but the only minimum we have set is 12 months/20 pounds. This policy statement is under revision but is current at this time."

Under revision? Really? So, in five years there may be a law stating that the baby has to be 35 pounds and 2 years old to ride front facing? ABSOLUTELY. That makes sense. I am not waiting for that law to be passed. No siree.

All mommies and soon to be mommies, please check out this link. I would love your opinion. Do you think the law should be revised? Would you turn your child around if you were me? And does anyone know if there are any NEGATIVES to the rear-facing position for a tall child, or one over 20 pounds and a year old. I am very interested. I may call Britax. Yes, I am one of those moms.

I do believe God will keep my baby safe, but I also think He gave us a brain for a reason!

LINK: http://www.joelsjourney.org/

Thank you, Ans!

Brooks' First Year...

noreply@blogger.com (Brittany Wardlow) — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 03:10:00 +0000

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com