The Cannon Family

SNOW SNOW SNOW

2010-02-14T17:59:00.000-08:00

Well, although I was hesitant to believe that we would REALLY get snow even though the weathermen were saying 100% chance of snow.... The snow started falling Fri afternoon around 4- although we were having a crazy busy day at work.... my co-workers and I did manage to go out into the courtyard for a quick pic and pretend snowball fight! I enjoyed driving home that night and seeing the snow on the trees!! ahh- I do MISS going to Colorado skiing!!! Saturday morning- Tallon was quick to ask to get "geared up" and he and Reeves headed out.... Tess and I took our time- enjoying breakfast before we headed over to Granger's to enjoy some fun with good friends!!! a BIG thank you to Collin for taking the following pics- Tess was NOT a fan of the snow so I stayed inside visiting with Aron and Jessica while the boys "played" outside!! I had no clue what all my husband was up too......

The last picture I have of just Reeves and I was when I was 9 mo pregnant with Tess!! THANK YOU Collin for taking these pictures of us- I LOVE THEM!

Reeves even talked me into getting on the tube with him although he gave me the craziest look when I told him I could not lay on my belly to ride.... Hello- 14 weeks pregnant now!

This is exactly what miss Priss thought of the snow.....
Tallon, on the other hand......
Makgill getting Reeves back ( and Reeves deserved it too!)

Life is FUN when you have Uncle Reeves around!
I LOVE HIM!
Tal absolutely ADORES his big cousin Makgill!!!

The following pictures are what Reeves took- I handed him the camera as they headed off to Aron and Collin's and asked him to PLEASE take some pictures of the house and than some of the kids and NOT be dependent on Aron and Collin---- when I got the camera back I found exactly 5 pictures on it.... Guess he was too busy having FUN!!!

I still can't believe he is 4 1/2 and heading rather quickly towards FIVE!

Our home.....

Crazy boy.... wonder where he gets it from?!!?

LOVE

2010-02-14T17:55:00.001-08:00

I Corinthians 13

1 If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing.
4 Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, 5 does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, 6 does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
8 Love never fails; but if there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away; if there are tongues, they will cease; if there isknowledge, it will be done away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part; 10 but when the perfect comes, the partial will be done away. 11 When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. 12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known. 13 But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.

Our Fall in pictures

2009-11-10T18:29:00.000-08:00

Celebrating Mimi's Birthday!

1 Loved little girl

Happy Girl

The guys stopped to let me take a quick picture after they play tennis 1 afternoon!

Playing tennis

He LOVES to be outside!

Don't turn your back... she will be in another room!

LiLi walked Gabby down to the park where we were playing one day.... Tallon was thrilled to show her his new gamecock hat!

Tess loves to swing ( which is a good thing because if we are outside... she is usually put in the swing.... to many acorns on the ground for her to pick up and try to eat=)

Showing LiLi and Aunt Aron how she can take steps!

Playing at Nana and Papa's house 1 day

We took a quick 1 night trip to the mountains to just get away as a family.... We went apple picking and also got to do a little bit of "hiking".... it was a GREAT family time- we plan on going again for a whole weekend next yr!

Dupont State Forest opens up twice a year ( once in Fall and once in Spring) and for a donation- you can ride in a heated bus from waterfall to waterfall to see the Forest--- this was the WAY TO GO with young kids.... all other times of the year- you can only hike, bike in the forest..... We had talked to Tallon about possibly seeing a waterfall and "hiking" so he thought it was GREAT that he got to see 3 waterfalls and I loved that even though it was FREEZING ( to us!)- this was a more manageable way to still see the mountains with both kids! I think Reeves really enjoyed

his time with Tess cuddled up next to him ( she actually fell asleep at one point!)

Walking around the base of 1 of the waterfalls!

Tess took her mid-morning nap-- Reeves LOVED it!

our version of "hiking"!

The lake was beautiful!

Tallon was worn out from all the running around he did that day!

I finally got a picture with everyone in it!!

On the bus, headed to another waterfall!

Family picture at Sky Top Orchard ( minus Tal who did not want to be in the picture)

but he WAS with us!

Tallon got to pick the first apple ( with some help from Daddy)

Tallon Loved helping put the apples daddy had picked into our basket!

It was soooo COLD but Tess was still a Happy Girl!

Tallon loved running up and down the hills and was all over the place- can you tell he had just spent 3 1/2 hrs in a car!!

The colors were beautiful on the trees and the apples were Delicious! We will def be planning a trip back to Sky Top next yr.... but I think I will try to go before it gets too cold

Tallon has been learning how to count with his fingers!

Bathtime is so much FUN with these 2!

Baby girl is pulling up on everything.... taking baby steps and now WALKING!

ALL Before she turned 11 months old!

Sweet Boy- He loves his Jeep!

Our neighbors prob think we are crazy... most people go on walks /ride bikes around the block....

I walk/stroll Tess and Tallon rides his Jeep!!

Happy Girl

We went to the pumkin patch around the corner from our house with Reeves's family one afternoon- The kids loved running around and picking a pumpkin out

as you can see- Tal really did NOT want his picture taken!

We have SUCH fantastic friends....

The Granger's had us over 1 evening for chili and pumpkin carving!

Tess' bedtime is 7,.... needless to say she was EXHAUSTED here!

Tallon acting silly with Aunt Aron!

Tallon Loves to help Tess walk...

I LOVE LOVE LOVE her face in this picture- she ADORES her big brother!

Last Soccer Game of the season

Go Tallon Go!

Mimi and Pop where visiting Aunt Liz but LiLi, Boom Boom, Gabby and Papa were there!

He loved playing... for the most part.... than there were the other times.... slightly emotional.... but all in all- we survived our first team sporting event!=)

Nana spent some quality time with Tess during the soccer game and then Tal put on his Buzz costume for them!

I love how he looks "shy" in this picture.....

Shy is not a word I usually use to describe him

I asked Buzz to show me how he flies....

You can't have Reeves around during the Fall without there being a football nearby!

The KIDS LOVE IT!

Sweet girls... I love that they are getting to grow up together!

Tess is so much fun right now....

she stays close by the action whenever the cousins come over to play!

I love how she is looking at Makgill in this picture!

4

2009-11-10T18:06:00.000-08:00

Tallon turned 4- FOUR- years old Sept 15..... I wanted to do a 4 yr post but kept thinking that if i did than it would be true- he would really be 4 so I have put it off and put it off and put it off and here we are--- in November! so I am going to take the plunge and finally admit that I have a 4 yr old!

We kept things simpler this year and just did a small party ( family and close friends). We had it in my parents backyard and went swimming.... it was a huge success and I think we will be keeping parties this way from now on!

A few FUN Facts about my firstborn child

1- He LOVE Life and everything to do with outdoors!

2- He is our "early bird"- often waking before 6- coming to our room and informing us that he is "starving" and needs breakfast NOW!

3. Just call him "Mr. Social"- he wants to know what is planned for each day and likes to have lots on the agenda- he is not a fan of simply staying at home all day

4. He is CRAZY about his Dad.... and the Gamecocks

5. Has recently become extremely affectionate with Mommy ( and I could not be HAPPIER!)

6. Definitely a protective Big Brother

A few firsts:

- Rides a bike without training wheels

- Swimming without any floaties

- playing on a team sport- soccer

- memorized his first verse " Genesis 1: 1: 1 ( As Tallon says) "In the beginning God created the Heavens and the earth"

- started 3K this year and seems to be enjoying school

I am sure there is more but just wanted to document while I still can remember......

We love you big boy and are super proud of you!

Momma and Daddy

It's football season!

2009-09-03T19:03:00.000-07:00

I have never been football crazy but for those of you who know my husband.... you know that our house gets extremely excited about football season..... I have been listening to the practice reviews every evening.... gamecock central has been on and Reeves is all pumped up about the Gamecocks!

I grew up Alabama CRIMSON TIDE thru and thru so that is where my main loyalty lies.... and yes, I do have a degree from Clemson which I am quite proud of.... so I am also a Tiger ( but not quite as much a Tiger- Alabama ranks #1.

BUT

I married a HUGE Gamecock fan..... so what does that make our children......

I LOVE these shots of Reeves with Tess and could not decide which one

I liked better so I am putting them both

Don't worry-- I did not wear a Carolina shirt or Carolina colors! I am not quite there yet.... but I do LOVE my husband! He works hard and is a great dad and father so I figured I would make him happy and actually allow my daughter to wear the gamecock cheerleader uniform ( plus she really did look CUTE in it!!). I lost the battle with Tallon a long time ago- He is his Daddy's boy- Go GAMECOCKS Go!

August Update

2009-09-03T18:29:00.000-07:00

I am working on trying to be better at blogging.... we will see how it goes! August was a busy month for us. we had lots of firsts- especially for Tallon- who can now ride a bike without training wheels and can pump his legs and swing way up high all by himself!

One extremely Happy Day......

Tallon learned how to pump

and this momma was THRILLED! now I am just pushing 1 little child in the swing everyday!

although Tal helps push Tess on occasion-

Tallon tells me practically everyday that he "has to go to work" and outside he heads to work!

He is quite the adventurer

and a little silly

but he can be soo sweet and thoughtful

He picked this flower and brought inside "for you mommy" 1 morning!

He also keeps us entertained with his wild imagination and hilarious antics...

I bought him a belt "Just like daddy's!

He has worn shorts with belt loops everyday since first receiving the belt!

Tess now claps for herself when she thinks she has done something work being clapped for!

mommy and tess before our walk one day!

notice: Tallon is also ready for his upcoming soccer team ( he just LOVES the shin guards we bought him and has been wearing them daily as he "works" in the yard!

sweet baby girl is EVERYWHERE.... literally.....

crawling all over the house

We all love swimming

and if you are wondering what I have been up too.....

besides starting a new job at the Hospice House here, I have started couponing and have managed to get our weekly grocery budget a lot lower than it was before....

Here is a picture of Tal with several of my "deals" one particular week

9 Months

2009-09-02T17:41:00.000-07:00

I can not believe that today my baby girl is turning 9 months old!

What a fast 9 months they have been.

Tessa Nell is tipping the 20 lb marker on the scale and I just love her many rolls and her chubby little cheeks! She continues to be a happy baby and she is definitely going to be my little chatter-bug.

She does not miss a beat-watching big brother run from 1 direction to the next and when she is down on the ground, she often tries to chase him-crawling as fast as she can!

She seems so much more expressive than I remember Tallon being- I love hearing her "ohhh, ahhs" and other little noices that come in a variety of pitches!She loves music and will light up when you sing to her- among her favorites- "Jesus Loves Me" ,the "itsy, bitsy spider" and"if your Happy and you know it, clap your hands"!

Tess still does not have teeth, although you often cannot tell as she likes to keep her lips puckered in! I have heard that the later a baby's teeth come in than the healthier and fewer cavities she will later on.... hmmm... guess we will find out if its true or not. I am hoping for teeth soon bc she literally goes crazy trying to reach whatever food I have on my plate or in my spoon and would much prefer it to her soft, mushy

baby food!

She is sleeping regularly now- still has her dream feed at 10 but than wakes sometime between 6 and 7. Takes 2 naps a day. I love that I can just lay her down in her crib with her paci and blankie and she puts herself to sleep! What a blessing- especially since her big bro still has a hard getting himself to sleep without Reeves or me there!

Speaking of siblings..... Tess still adores Tallon- he can have her giggling like no one else and she looks for him if he is not in the same room as her. It will be interesting to see how she transitions with Tallon starting 3k next week. He will be gone 5 mornings a week from 7:40 until 10:30.

Mommy thinks she is going to miss the entertainment Tal provides for Tess during those

times=) I am enjoying these days at home with both my kids but especially Tess as she often crawls straight to my legs and pulls up, grinning and just holding out her hands for me to hug and love on her! She is already trying to stand up on her own so I am sure that walking will be coming shortly!

Our lives changed on Dec 3rd, 2008 with the birth of Tessa Nell Cannon and I could not be more grateful to the Lord for the 9 precious months He has given us with her... I pray for many more.....We love you baby girl!

July Update

2009-07-20T17:33:00.000-07:00

We just came back from spending almost 2 weeks at the beach. We spent the weekend around July 4th with my parents and Aunt Liz and Uncle Mike and than we pent the week with Cannon's the following week.... LOTS of pictures to come.

Tallon actually made it into the ocean ( and LOVED IT) this year!

Tess is

1- officially crawling ( more of a scoot, roll, stick hiney up in air- but she can make it to whatever she has her eyes on)

2- can now pull up on her crib rail ( what is up with this- Dr. Ben said the normal age for pulling up is 9 months- just FANTASTIC- my little overachiever)

3. clapping with her sweet little hands!

too many firsts in one week if you ask me- I feel like she is growing up right before my eyes!!

thankful

2009-07-20T17:30:00.000-07:00

Reeves just came downstairs from putting Tal down for bed. They had read their books and than Reeves prayed- he asked if Tallon wanted to pray. First, Tallon said no. but in the middle of Reeves' praying, Tallon said he wanted to pray.... so Reeves said he finished praying and than Tallon prayed.....

"Dear God, Thank you for my new booster seat, THANK YOU"

Reeves said he prayed it in the most sincere and sweetest voice. May I always remember to thank God for the big and little ways he provides for our needs.

83

2009-07-08T07:42:00.000-07:00

Papa turned 83 last week!

We celebrated in fashion with a steak and shrimp dinner

and one of Nana's delicious caramel cakes.

I am so thankful that my kids can know their great-grandparents!

We love you Nana and Papa!

Mothers Day Weekend

2009-06-23T18:50:00.000-07:00

Here is a collage of pictures from Mothers Day Weekend. Robert and Tiffany decided to surpise mom and come to the lake for the weekend. Dad and I knew and I could not wait to see my brother and Tiff. When we got there- I could not believe it when I saw another car with a

Kentucky license plate..... Yep- Elizabeth and Mike drove down for the weekend also!! It was so much fun getting to all hang out together and the time flew by! wish we all lived closer so we could see ya'll more!!

2009 Lake House Family Picture

Tallon giving Dad a thumbs up for skiing on one ski!

I love this little boy sooo much!

Happy Mother's Day Mimi!

They guys playing football

Aunt Tiffany playing with Tallon

Liz and Mike

Dad and Liz

chilling on the boat

my sweet boy- I can not believe he is almost 4!!

Seriously, Tal thinks if he is on the boat, he is supposed to be helping drive the boat!

Tal and Pop

Playing the famous card game "Cheng Hi"

The girls picture....

what is everyone looking at.....

including Papa

2 crazy geese totally going at it in front of the house....evidently they are very territorial and 1 of the male geese got near the other female and that totally ticked the other male off and he went after him!! i was afraid there was going to be a death, but thankfully they finally settled it and went on in 2 different directions....

The guy picture ( minus Tal who was refusing to be in any pictures at the moment)

Don't they all look so happy to be related and together at the lake?

Sweet baby girl LOVES her toes!

Nana and Papa

Tess loved all the attention Aunt Liz gave her

Aunt Liz skiing

Uncle Rob with Mr Joe Cool!

Look closely....... crazy men

Yes, they did it- switched ski ropes..... several times.....

We wish we all lived closer bc the guys really do have fun hanging out together-

Mike is really good at staying on the float no matter how crazy the boat driver gets trying to throw Mike off the float

Mimi and Tal

Enjoy it now.... because once you have kids..... there is no such thing as "resting"!

I think someone was exhausted.....

Pop put together a great game of "shoot the cans"

Click on the following picture- gotta love Aunt Tiff's face!!

No family weekend is complete without Papa's famous fish!! YUMMY

Tallon loves to help mimi cook- this morning they were making cinnamon rolls and someone was being goofy in front of the camera!

Papa fishing

Uncle Rob and Aunt Tiff

Reeves has finally mastered skiing on only one ski!! You have come along way baby!

Little Lake boy!

4 month portraits

2009-06-19T13:58:00.000-07:00

Pictures taken the day we dedicated Tess! Mom made her dress and bonnet- I LOVED them!

Love Reeves expression in this picture and soo thankful to have a photographer in the family, although Reeves is not too fond of how Collin positions him for portraits sometimes=)
Here are a sample of the portraits from Tess' 4 month session! I can not begin to make up my mind- I LOVE them All!!

Our little stinker!!

6 months

2009-06-03T16:56:00.000-07:00

Tessa Nell Cannon

June 3, 2009

6 months old

weight: 16. 5 lbs

Happy, Content, not a fan of baby food unless it is applesauce,

pretty good sleeper ( only up around 5 ish for early morning feeding),

Loves to laugh at her big brother,

SITTING UP on her own,

not a fan of the church nursery ( mom usually gets beeped out before the 2nd song)

adorable, CUTE, rolling all the place,

likes to play "shy" when someone speaks to her- she will put her face against my chest and slowly turn her head and smile at them!

We can not believe you are 6 months old baby girl!

Big brother with his siste

Ready for bed...

Look who is sitting up

Big brother LOVES his sister

Tallon being silly

We love you Tess!

Cousin Fun

We were going to just get a "girls cousin picture",

but Tallon insisted he be in the picture with his sister!

sitting up and oh so pretty!

I think we are going to have to lower the crib mattress soon....

Thank you Lord for these 2 children and the Joy of being a mom to them!

CUTIE PIE

2009-05-11T18:27:00.000-07:00

Collin and Aron are getting ready for another Limited Edition Series- "Girly Girls"- I was so excited when Aron said they would take some of Miss Tess- I had figured she was too little.....

Is she not absolutely precious.... I love her in purple! and

I love her sweet little face and bright eyes- taking it all in!

All Things Boy

2009-05-04T17:38:00.000-07:00

Riding his bike, loads of imaginative play, sticks, balls, and lots of running.... Tallon has had a great month enjoying the spring weather we have had.

He and Daddy working on his racecar for the Awana Grand Prix!

Tallon especially loved mixing the paints.....
I think they used EVERY paint color I have ever bought!
very determined....

what a beautiful car.... unfortunately Daddy and tal are going to have to brush up on their skills for making the car go fast ( it came in dead last in every single round of races--- but thankfully Tallon did not realize it- he just LOVED watching his car go down the track!)
Tallon helped wrap Pop's birthday gift... he included one of his crocs in the gift bag as a joke ( this was TOTALLY Planned by him... I kept taking the shoe out of the bag.. he kept telling me "No mommy, it is for Pop and than he would just GRIN!)

Tallon loves to ride his bike~

Wearing his new sunglasses ( courtesy of the Awana store)

Pretending to fill his lawn mower up with gas!

no stick goes untouched in our yard...

Wonder what he is contemplating doing now....

Taking a break to have his picture taken with Tess!!

He often asks me to "take our picture Mommy!"

Silly Boy- WE LOVE YOU TAL!

All Things Girl

2009-05-04T17:05:00.000-07:00

Dresses, Bows, Shoes, Hats..... Fun times in the life of our sweet 4 month old!

'check out Tess's CUTE shoes..... her Aunt Liz made them! They are sooo adorable and fit great!!

Take a wild guess who Tess is soo adoringly watching.....the hand in the picture sort of gives it away.... she loves her brother!

comparison

2009-04-14T17:21:00.000-07:00

Many people say they think Tallon and Tess "look alike"- I could not disagree more. I think they both distinctly have their own characteristics..... take a look

Tallon- newborn

Tess- newborn

Tallon- 2 weeks old
Tess- 2 weeks old
Tess
Tess- 3 weeks old

Tallon- 7 weeks old

Tallon- 4 months old

Tess- 4 months old

now that I am looking at the pics- maybe I do see some similarity in their faces but I still think they def do not look identical at all! but I do know FOR SURE that they came from the same 2 people=) What a blessing God has bestowed upon us- the privelage of raising these 2 precious cuties!

Easter

2009-04-14T16:40:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful Easter weekend! how Thankful I am that my God is ALIVE. He is not dead, the stone was rolled away and he is Alive. I bought Tallon a sticker ( 200 plus sticker) book telling the story of Jesus' death and resurrection and we enjoyed putting the different stickers of Mary, Judas, the priest, soldiers and the cross and stone on the pages and reading the story together. I am amazed at how much a 3 yr old can comprehend. I pray that he will soon realize the depth of Christ's love for him and the sacrifice Jesus paid on the cross for his sin so that He too can have eternal life.

Tallon spent all day Friday with Mimi and Pop while I cleaned our home and carried Tess to Dr. Ben for her 4 month check-up. He had a blast- The dyed Easter Eggs, made Easter sugar cookies ( surprise, surprise- Tallon LOVES the sugar cookie dough..... just like his mommy!!) and enjoyed a beautiful warm spring day playing outside! Thanks for keeping Tallon so I could have a clean home ( for a few hrs anyways!)
Tallon rigged up the jeep to pull his friends- Elmo and a few other stuffed animals around the yard. Mom and Dad said he kept trying to put Elmo in the drivers seat and see if he could make Elmo push the gas so that he ( Tallon) could ride behind the jeep- Silly Boy!

Saturday- we had a Easter Egg Hunt at our Church. Over 2000 eggs were stuffed with stickers, toys and candy and hidden across the lawn. The kids enjoyed making a fun craft ( the made an Easter Lily with their handprint) and a beautiful narration of the Easter story and Gospel message was shared by Tallon's Favorite Sunday School Teachers- Mr John and Mrs. Colleen. I don't have any pictures but am hoping that once Aunt Aron posts hers- I will "steal" a few for my blog=) Sat afternoon my parents came over and helped Reeves paint my living/dining room and our kitchen- can I tell you how AWESOME those rooms look now- I LOVE the colors and am so pleased with how they turned out!

Sunday- we actually made it to the Easter Sunrise Service- I remember always going to this with my family growing up and although our kids are young- it is something I want to do with them. I so want them to realize what Easter is really about and want that to be our main focus. The Easter Bunny did not make an appearance at our house this year ( Tal had already been to 3 Easter egg hunts so we decided he had plenty of candy already!) We had a delicious lunch at Linda and Fred's home and enjoyed hanging out with Reeves' family and our close friends- the Elders that afternoon.

We attempted to get a family picture at church- it was actually quite comical looking over the pictures- as soon as Tess is looking at camera- Tal isn't... oh well..... There is ALWAYS Uncle Collin right down the road ( and for that I am extremely grateful- I think one day soon when I have everyone dressed up I will just head on down to his place)
Mimi made Tess's dress and bonnet- the dress had her monogram- I just LOVED it!

We attempted to get a few pictures before Church Sunday morning.... Tallon was not into having his picture taken with mommy and Tess at all......
Mommy even agreed the ballon could be in the picture but he still refused to look at camera and smile.....
so I told Reeves to just take some and than said here- let's get one of you and Tess together and what does my son do- he says " I want a picture with Daddy and Tess" and nicely stands near daddy and smiles!

I LOVE YOU Tallon- even if you did not want to be in a picture with your mother!!

Pictures from March

2009-04-12T17:14:00.000-07:00

Check out Mr Tal and his Gun Holster ( although I think that on this particular day he was calling it his "tool belt"!

I love this hat on Tess!
I just discovered that a lot of my pictures are of Tess in her carseat- I promise that she does spend LOTS of time out of the carseat- I guess it is just easier to grab the camera once I have everyone loaded up and ready to head out!

Talk about exhausting days.....

Tallon is still CRAZY about his sister- he just LOVES her!
We are seeing this sweet smiley face more and more these days.....

1 last burp before night-night time.... sweet dreams sweetheart!
Watch Out- It's Captain Tallon.....
Tal can often be found with some sort of sword, stick, gun or holster attached to him- he loves to pretend and is quite imaginative as he drives his jeep or bike all over the yard- off to fight the bad guys or pretending to be a pirate- he def has his "ARGH" down ( if only I could figure out how to get the blog to show videos!)
Hanging out with Daddy in Tess' s room!
3 months- rolling over.... no more swaddling for bedtime....

We spent the afternoon at Nana and Papa's house 1 day and than stayed for Papa's specialty- Fried Catfish.....

Tal helped Nana make a lemon pie!Mimi and her "girl"!

Pop and Tess

4 Months Old

2009-04-12T17:02:00.000-07:00

Tess turned 4 months old on April 3rd. She weighed a whopping 14 lbs and received a clean bill of health plus a few shots from one of our favorite Dr's- Dr. Ben! She still rolls over from her front to back occasionally and has started to enjoy playing with toys and spending time in her exersaucer. She often looks for Tallon and follows him as he runs around the house or yard. The weather has been beautiful so we have been going on lots of walks to the park down the street while big brother rides his bike!

Cousin Picture!

update

2009-03-30T10:15:00.000-07:00

Life has been full these past few weeks- I plan on posting again SOON, but in the meantime- Aron has taken some fun pictures of what we have been up to lately and posted them on her blog- check them out!!

Tallon, Makgill and one of their good friends Aidan are taking swim lessons together- click here to see pics!

We made Easter Egg Chalk the other afternoon with the kids- soo messy but they had a great time! click here to see pics!

I will post pics from my camera ( although they won't be nearly as good as Collin and Aron's) soon of little miss priss!

"Meeting"

2009-03-30T10:07:00.000-07:00

This morning while getting Tallon dressed and ready for school.
Me- "Time to make up your bed- which side of the bed do you want" ( tallon likes to choose which side he wants to make up each day

Tal- " This side"- walks over to the side closest to the wall

we make up bed. Tallon find his Buzz Lightyear pretend phone on the floor next to wall.

Me- "Let's get dressed Tallon"

Tal- picks up phone and puts it next to his ear as I am trying to get his pants on.
"Wait mommy", Buzz says I have to go to a meeting"

Me- "a meeting?" well you need to get dressed before you can go to your meeting"

Tal- "hold on mommy", then talking in to phone- "Buzz, Mommy says I have to get dressed first", he listens for a bit and than says "ok, Bye"

Me- "can we get dressed now Tallon"

Tallon- " Yes, Buzz said I could come after I get dressed"

where does he get this imagination from?! I am having the BEST conversations with him lately and I often think- I want to remember these because some are really funny, so I figured I could try blogging them when I remember to!!

Patty- Cake

2009-03-14T14:25:00.000-07:00

Tallon and I have started to play "patty-cake" with Tess- she loves it and will grin at us as I take her hands and help her clap and roll. Now, Tallon walks around asking to do "patty cake" all day long!

My little girl

2009-03-05T19:20:00.001-08:00

My baby girl turned 3 months old this past Wednesday! I LOVE having a little girl.This has been an exciting month- she is more alert and quite a little talker- she loves to grin at me when I go get her in the mornings and is quick to coo and make noises back at me! I love picking out her dresses every morning ( Don't worry- Mimi and LiLi have been very kind to keep Miss Priss dressed soooo CUTE and Clara Beth has been super kind to pass down so many adorable outfits as well! She still has hair- some times I think it looks lighter but it is still definitely brown- we keep bows in it! No denying she is a girl! We took our first family vacation this past week to Disney and had a great time ! Tess is very easy going and spent most of the week in the sling or carrier- she just went with the flow. and she still SLEPT at night! I am soo thankful as I really am a much nicer person when I get sleep!! she seems to have developed more of a routine now and goes to bed by 8 and sleeps til 7ish with 1 short feeding sometime around 4 or 5 AM. She has found her hands and seems to prefer them to the pacifier but I still give her the paci frequently. She has also discovered her brother and loves to watch him as he runs circles around her!

Tess is getting better with her head control and already trying to push up and "stand" when you hold her! She is started to watch toys and so it has just been a fun few weeks actually being able to interact with her more! We love you Sweet Girl!! You are a Joy and a Delight to our family!

Makgill and Clara Beth are sooo sweet with Tess!

Extremely Tired

2009-02-19T12:55:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful day. On our way home from working out- Tallon requested to go to the park so we packed a picnic lunch and met up with Mimi and Pop and Mrs. Kristin, Anna and Sadie for lunch and play time. As soon as we got home- Tallon asked if he could have "quiet time" in his playroom- I told him that today that would be fine. I was downstairs getting a few things done and all of a sudden realize that I am not hearing anything....hmmm.... so I head up the stairs.....

and nearly laughed out loud- I could not believe where Tallon had "fallen asleep"
I wonder what Tallon was thinking about!?!

Happenings....

2009-02-16T12:28:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed WARM weather last week so we spent most of our days outside playing. With Tess starting to go to bed earlier and getting into more of a routine- I have been playing around with several crafts on my new sewing machine!! Hope you enjoy a glimpse into our days lately...
they are FULL and we are thankful for the 2 children God has blessed us with!

Mom and I gave making our own pacifier clips a try. They turned out pretty cute if I do say so!Check out the fun boy fabric- I am making a gift for a friend who is having a boy in a few weeks!

When Tess gets fussy or when I need to get stuff done- this is where Tess goes-
she LOVES the sling and often goes right to sleep!

We had several friends over to play 1 day last week-
Check out Sadie in the cute shirt that I made and mom monogrammed for me!
We loved having Will and his brother Cole over. Will is Tallon's age and it was fun having another boy to play with! Makgill, CB, Will and Tallon found a way for all the kids to enjoy the jeep! Sorry I did not get any pictures of cutie Cole!

oops- it did not work!LOVE this picture of Tal and Clara Beth! They really are good friends!

Makgill just knew that it could work- Come on Will- Don't let GO!

We seem to be exhausted by 8 pm every night!

Tal, Tess and I headed over to Papa and Nana's last Thursday. Nana cooked a DELICIOUS meal for us- nothing better than a homecooked meal of veggies, cornbread and ham- THANKS Nana!! Tal and Tess loved the attention and we even spent some time outside in the beautiful weather!

Papa loving on Tess
Papa and Bama

This is the face you get when you ask him to smile!

LOVE my little boy!

Guess who learned how to climb the fence!?
Tallon was so proud of himself!
Mommy- well- I think it is only a matter of time before he starts climbing trees...
better start the broken bone fund!

Nana got to love on Tess too!

For Valentine's this year- we went out with 3 other couples from our small group. We rarely get to do things without kids so we enjoyed getting to converse with other adults over a delicious dinner! We are so thankful for the friendships God has blessed us with!

Sweet, Sleepy Baby Girl!

I can not believe she is almost 3 months old!

Cousin Time

2009-02-07T14:10:00.000-08:00

LiLi, Aunt Aron and Mak and CB came over the other afternoon to play.

both the boys immediately turned and started "shushing" Tess as soon as she started to wail!

While Lili enjoy holding Tess- here is what the other 3 were up too......
Watching all sorts of videos and seeing lots of pictures of Disney World- we are all going there in just a few more weeks!!

SNOW

2009-02-07T14:02:00.000-08:00

I can not remember the last time Florence had snow, but we have had snow TWICE in the past 2 weeks! I had no clue that it had snowed until Tallon woke me up saying- snow, mommy, snow! This snow did not last as long as the previous one, but Tallon was able to go out and play in the snow with Daddy this time! It was pretty, but I am soo thankful God did not move us up north! I am NOT a FAN of cold weather and it has been soo cold and dreary this winter! I am constantly thinking about my sister up in Kentucky and wondering how on earth she is surviving all of their snow and cold weather! WE LOVE YOU LIZ And MIKE!

Tess and I enjoyed staying inside by the fire while the boys played outside!

8 weeks

2009-02-07T13:53:00.001-08:00

Tessa Nell turned 8 weeks old this past wednesday! She is outgrowing most of her newborn clothes and that makes me so sad! She is quite a delightful baby girl though.... she has started to notice toys and loves to sit in her "kick and play" bouncy seat. She also enjoys watching her mobile. She is full of huge grins and sweet smiles for us and loves watching her big brother as he runs circles around all of us! She still is nursing every 3 hrs during the day with the last feeding at 10 pm. than she is up around 3:30-4:30 for just a few minutes ( some nights only 10 minutes) and than she goes right back to sleep until around 7. I really think she could prob go without the 4 ish feeding but am just too tired to keep plugging her back up with the paci so I just nurse her and lay her right back down. I am still swaddling her although I think we will slowly make it looser and looser this next month. She is soo close to rolling onto her tummy from her back.

My favorite thing with her right now is seeing her smile and get all excited when she recognizes me and hearing her try to "talk" saying oohh and ahhh to me.... soo cute!

We saw Dr. Ben on Friday and she got 3 shots and 1 oral medicine. Thankfully, she did not run a fever but was quite cranky yest afternoon.

2 month stats:
11 lbs
23 3/4 inches long

LPC

2009-02-07T13:45:00.000-08:00

6 years in the working

3 years in Seminary
2 moves half-way across the country
lots of hours studying, writing papers
Lots more hours working with clients
1 big exam
2 years of internship
For the past 2 years, Reeves has been working as a LPC I (Licensed Professional Counselor Intern).Today, he received information from the South Carolina state board that he has been APPROVED as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of SC!Congratulations Daddy!!
We could not be more proud of you!

Boom-Boom

2009-02-05T16:10:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BOOM-BOOM!!

Today is Reeves' father's birthday! We are celebrating with the whole family tom night, but LiLi picked up the 3 older grandkids and carried them to Freeman's bakery today to pick out cupcakes for Boom-Boom and them to eat after lunch today. Tallon picked out a Blue balloon cupcake, Makgill a red one and Clara Beth a beautiful orange and pink flower cupcake. They collectively decided that Boom-Boom's cupcake would be a green balloon!

When I asked Tallon what was he loved MOST about Boom-Boom....

He IMMEDIATELY responded with.....

He plays hide and seek with me!

That pretty well sums Boom-Boom up...

He is a hands-on grandfather and I am soo thankful for that! He does not hesitate to hop down on the floor and build with blocks, read books with a lap FULL of wiggly kids and always has lots of encouragement to hand out. I can already see him at all the future sports games and ballet and music recitals!

What I am most Thankful for Boom- Boom for....

The time, love, tears and sweat he invested in Reeves with.

Reeves is a wonderful, Godly Husband and Father and I know that the years he grew up under Fred's roof play a HUGE role in the man my husband is today! Thank you Fred! We love you and hope your birthday was a special day!

and we can't forget LiLi- definitely Boom-Boom's better half=) =)

my favorite sayings

2009-02-02T12:15:00.000-08:00

Linda was kind enough to pick up Tallon and spend the afternoon with him today. When she dropped me off she told me that Tallon told her that "Pop is gone on a trip". Linda said Yes, he did- where did he go Tallon? Tallon's response......
"to see Jesus"!!!

we have been praying for Pop a lot lately and talking about how he went on an airplane to Honduras to minister to people there and tell them about Jesus!!

Sunday afternoon

2009-02-01T12:09:00.000-08:00

All is quiet......

I've been Tagged

2009-01-28T09:54:00.000-08:00

by my lovely sister-in-law Tiffany

The rules...

1.) Go to the place on your computer and choose the 4th folder.

2.) Choose the 4th picture in that folder.

3.) Explain the photo.

4.) Tag 4 others to do the same.

This picture was taken in the backyard of my other lovely sister-in-law's (Aron) home!
Tallon was 1 1/2 yrs old and Aron and Collin had several friends over for an Easter Egg Hunt! Look at how little my son looks and I love that he is in such a cute outfit ( proudly made my Mimi!)- I do miss being able to dress Tallon up! now we just stick to jeans, kaki's and a shirt!
You can also see Makgill ( our nephew) who recently just turned 5 yrs old. Luke is holding on to his mom's leg and I can not figure out who the little girl is?! oh- I am almost POSITIVE that my husband is the one with the football in the background ( he ALWAYS grabs a ball to toss around if at all possible!)

ok- I am tagging: Aron, Carrie, Emily, Lia and Michelle

Something Worth Smiling About

2009-01-21T12:11:00.000-08:00

Tess turned 7 weeks old today... and Boy has she grown. She weighed 10 lbs, 7 oz at the hospital last Thursday!! We have had several fun days back at home!

SNOW

Tallon was thrilled to see the snow falling outside yesterday morning when he woke up. His First comment: "It's not alot of snow mommy"
and
"I need my ski's"
uh-oh- sorry bud- no ski's or skiing to be found in SC-
Let's just try playing in the inch or 2 lightly covering the ground!

We headed over to Aron and Collin's home so that I could stay nice and warm inside with Tess while Aron bundled up and headed outside with the kids. She got some great pictures- check her blog here!

Tallon did not last long outside though

"It's cold' and "I'm hungry"

So we headed back home and while Tess napped- he and I had a yummy lunch- grilled cheese sandwiches and potato soup-mmmmm!

Later on, he decided to test out the snow in our backyars so, I bundled him up, grabbed a few pictures and out he went ( he lasted about 5 minutes!)

Tallon does not think he needs naps anymore so we have gone to "quiet time"- we read up in his room for awhile and than He can play quietly (or sleep) for an hour!! It is such a needed and refreshing time for me!! This is how I found him the other day when I went to check on him at the end of his quiet time!!
Yes, son- I think some days you still need a nap!!
Aron and the kids came over to hang out this morning-
Clara Beth decided real quick that she did NOT want to be in the picture ( can you tell her dad's a photographer!)
and last but not least..... Something DEFINITELY WORTH SMILING ABOUT!!

MY Sweet, SMILING little girl!

I know I am biased but I just think Tess is beautiful!!
and... check out the pretty hairbow!

RSV

2009-01-19T08:35:00.000-08:00

Tess developed congestion, a cough and slowly stopped nursing Wed and Thursday morning, so I carried her to see the Dr. Thursday afternoon. I really just thought she had a small cold....
The RSV test showed up in about a minute ( it normally takes 10-15 min is what I was told)- positive. Because of her age and how quickly the test results showed up- the Dr felt it was best to admit her. Thankfully, she never dropped her oxygen sats so we never had to go on oxygen. She just needed the iv and the breathing treatments as well as LOTS of suctioning. Thankfully, our families were able to help out with Tallon so that Reeves could stay at the hospital with Tess and I. We were all very relieved when we were discharged home Sat morning. Now, she is on oral medicine every 6 hrs and I am just suctioning her a lot as well as trying to get her to increase her feedings again.

On top of everything going on- I developed mastitis due to all the extra milk I am producing that she is not requiring right now. It has been an interesting few days to say the least... but God has been good in that we found the mastitis quickly and my dad was able to call in a prescription so that I did not have to call the Dr on call!! Tess is starting to nurse better and seems to be handling her congestion well. I am still up checking on her frequently during the night, but so thankful to be home! I am already looking forward to Spring and warmer weather!! we appreciate everyone's prayers!
Here are a few pictures from the last few days....
Tallon was soo glad Tess was back home!
My dad has been picking Tal up from school once a week and carrying him out to lunch and to run errands- This is such a treat for Tallon (and for me too=). He loves hanging out with Pop! Here they posed with Tess for a quick picture before Pop headed back home last week!
Tallon and Reeves spent some time at the library yesterday afternoon- checking out videos and books and doing several puzzles there. Tallon happily made himself at home reading a book in Tess's carseat!
I love this sweet little girl- she will be 7 weeks old on Wednesday!

HOME

2009-01-17T08:51:00.001-08:00

We are home! Thanks to Aron for updating the blog=) and Thanks to everyone for their prayers and emails and phone calls! Tess is doing well- it just sounds like we are going to become very close friends with the bulb suction over the next few weeks!! I am thankful that the RSV is not as severe as it could have been ( we did not have to go on any oxygen- she kept her sats up great!) Please cont to pray that feedings would go well and that the congestion and cough would ease up!! I am so thankful to be out of the hospital!!!

HOME

2009-01-17T08:51:00.000-08:00

Please Pray!

2009-01-16T17:52:00.000-08:00

Our sweet Baby Tess was admitted to the hospital yesterday for RSV. Reeves and Rebecca are up there with her, and Tal is with Rebecca's parents and will be heading to my parents' tomorrow. I haven't seen her, but have talked to Reeves and Rebecca a ton. I just got off the phone with them, and Rebecca said she thinks Tess may be doing a little better this evening. She is still nursing well, which is a huge praise. Please keep them all in your prayers! Pray that Tess begins to breathe easier, sleeps and eats well, and makes a FULL recovery SOON! And pray that Reeves and Rebecca are able to get some sleep. They sound exhausted and I know they are worried about their sweet girl. Thanks, y'all, and I will post an update tomorrow.
-Aron

6 weeks

2009-01-13T18:26:00.000-08:00

Look who will be 6 weeks old tommorrow!! and she LOVES the sling- I have found it to be extremely helpful- especially during her fussy evening times!!

Life

2009-01-10T06:30:00.001-08:00

Just for the faithful 1 or 2 of you who I know want to see some updated pictures.....

First- the big brother
We signed Tallon up for swim lessons starting next Saturday ( he is going to be in a class with 1 of his friends ). so I wanted to make sure he was not afraid of the water- last summer- it took him a while to warm back up to the pool! I was glad we did this... sure enough.... it took about 15 min of Tallon watching several boys throwing a ball around and swimming and Daddy coaxing him to get in and finally- he found this little duck thing that he could hold onto and off he went. IT was not long and he was ALL over the pool-kicking and completely free of daddy's hold (although daddy was nearby!!) It was nice to do something as a family (although Tess and I just watched from the sidelines!! He was worn out and is already asking to go again today...
We have had a good week overall- still working on trying to get some sleep around here, but as I have been told-- we do have a newborn so what do we expect!! Thursday night was rough, but I managed to keep Tess awake for several periods during the morning and afternoon yesterday and last night was actually better- she slept from 10:30 until 3 and than went back down at 4 and slept til 7 AM. not too bad- she seems to want to wake up after her middle of the night feeding for some reason!!

Daddy with his kiddosand because I realized I don't have very many pictures of Tess and me !

Look who found her Thumb!!!!!
and.... She smiled at me several times ( well, THREE TIMES) yesterday afternoon!! It was absolutely the sweetest smile and I am already ready for some more!!

Check this out

2009-01-09T18:28:00.000-08:00

My sister-in-law Tiffany has a blog.
We were thrilled to have her and my brother back in town to celebrate Christmas. She posted several times about their trip here and I just LOVED this blog post!! Thanks soo much for spending time with Tallon and Tess while you guys were here!

1

2009-01-03T12:42:00.001-08:00

1 monthwhat a month! Our baby girl is growing right before our eyes. She is such a Joy and we are all completely in love with her and it is now hard to imagine what life was like before she arrived!

Here are a few stats and things I want to remember:
*we weighed her on her granddad's scale and she now weighs 9 1/2 lbs
*she LOVES to eat- still nursing pretty frequently during the day (every 2 1/2 -3 hrs) but she actually gave me a 4 1/2 hr stretch last night-mommy loved that!
* she is an early riser- she does not want to go back to sleep after her 4 or 5 am feeding- YIKES!
* definitely has alert times now- I love to see her look around checking out her surroundings
*still waiting on those first "real" smiles but I am expecting them anytime now!
* I love how she can be fussy and I can now pick her up in my arms and she will look at me and get extremely content- she definitely loves to be held!!
*still has a very fussy time in the late evenings ( say a prayer for us around 8:30-11 pm at night!)

I love these sweet brother and sister moments!
Sweet sleeping baby girl

Tallon loves to include Tess in whatever we are doing-
whether reading a book, singing or simply playing!
Here he is singing to her

1 month

2008-12-31T11:14:00.001-08:00

Christmas (part 3)

2008-12-31T10:57:00.001-08:00

I have 3 cousins that live in TN so we are not able to see them very often. We missed Jenny, Bill and Kathryn but were thrilled that Tom and Lauren were able to come down for the weekend!!

I sure do wish you would move closer Lauren- you would be a fantastic babysitter!!

It is crazy to see you hold my daughter because I remember going to the

hospital when you were born!!! I think I am getting old!

Tallon loved holding Robert's guitar

Papa with Lauren and Tess

Tallon and Tiff playing match

while Aunt Liz snoozed with Tess

The adults were playing cards and Tallon asked for some Hershey kissies- then I realized it got quiet.... I found him alone in the dining room.. sitting at the table.... evidently he was afraid someone might try to steal 1 of his kissies!

I was trying to get Tallon to take a picture with Uncle Robert and Aunt Tiffany....

silly boy!

Christmas (part 2)

2008-12-31T10:39:00.001-08:00

We spent Christmas morning with just our family- Tallon was so excited to see if Santa came- he kept asking where Santa was ( he thought Santa would be waiting downstairs WITH the gifts!)

A new Bible book to read at nightUnfortunately, Tallon decided very quickly that he did not want his picture taken anymore so this is all I have from Christmas morning.
Santa filled Tal's stocking with fruit chews and I think this might have been Tal's favorite gift!
He also received some play food and pots and pans to go with his kitchen and a new game!

We headed over to Reeves's grandmothers home to tell her Merry Christmas and then we headed to my parents' home. My brother and his wife did not come in until the day after Christmas so we pretty much just hung out Christmas day!

Tallon received some musical instruments from Aunt Liz and Uncle Mike... BIG HIT!
Tallon was thrilled to go back to Mimi and Pop's the day after Christmas and open more gifts!!
Watch out- it's Fireman Tallon
and no Fireman would be complete without his firehose!

I love this picture of my Nana!
I guess I should have hopped in this picture too!! oh well!
Look at how big Tess is getting- She is 3 weeks old in this picture!
Papa checking out Robert's guitar for Guitar Hero
Aunt Liz
Aunt Tiffany
Uncle Robert brought his Wii down- Tallon enjoyed playing Maria cars with Aunt Tiff as well as tried bowling and tennis. He was actually pretty good at serving the tennis ball but then he would get distracted so he almost never was able to return the ball!

Finally

2008-12-31T10:35:00.001-08:00

All the other aunts and uncles got to meet Tess soon after she arrived, except for my sister and her husband. We were thrilled when Aunt Liz and Uncle Mike arrived in SC last Wed night!!

Pop with both his grands!Mimi and Pop graciously babysit last Wed night so that Reeves and I could attend the Christmas Eve service at church- Thank ya'll!

Christmas (part 1)

2008-12-31T10:22:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Christmas with Reeves family the Sunday evening before Christmas! Tallon definitely got in to the "spirit" this year and LOVED opening gifts! He even helped open LiLi and Boom-Boom's gifts. My in-laws were very generous and we are truly Thankful!! Tess got some beautiful dresses and outfits and Tallon received some great clothes as well as a storybook reader (which he calls his "computer" and Geotrax- Thanks soo much LiLi and Boom-Boom!) As you can tell in the pictures... Tess thoroughly enjoyed being in everyone's arms!! Our sweet little girl- she slept all afternoon and thru the evening-hardly making a peep.... then we get home... and she decides to wake up!!!

Makgill is a FANTASTIC BIG Cousin!! He loves Baby Tess!

Tess with her LiLi
Aunt Aron and Tess
Clara Beth is always soo sweet with Tess- she loves to give her kisses
and is so willing to share her baby dolls with Tess

The kids helping Boom-Boom open his gift
Uncle Andrew
Aunt Aron-
We can not wait to meet Baby Caroline in June!
Tallon and Makgill were the "trash guys"- they carried all the trash into other rooms in LiLi's house and decided to dump them out- oh- to be kids with such imaginations!

Reeves and Tallon's favorite gift..... GEOTRAX! They spend hours playing with these!

Coming soon

2008-12-30T09:41:00.000-08:00

Lots of pictures and maybe a few words to come..... SOON! It has been a busy few weeks, but we have had a wonderful time hanging out with our families over Christmas. Tess is continuing to thrive- she will be 4 weeks on Wed- YIKES- where is time going. She loves to eat and is filling out quite nicely! ( I might get that chunky baby I wanted after all.....) Tallon still LOVES being the big brother, although he has been extremely clingy to Reeves lately. We are starting to get into a "routine" ( if you can call your days anything like that with a newborn!) I am beginning to feel more like my normal self every day which is nice! Reeves' grandfather passed away this past weekend so we all loaded up and headed to Greenville yesterday for the visitation and funeral. We actually survived traveling with 2 kids as they both took a nap the whole way up to Greenville and Reeves and I got a chance to talk!! I will try to post pictures soon....

2 Weeks

2008-12-17T12:36:00.001-08:00

Wow- I can not believe that Tess is now 2 weeks old. We had her 2 week check up with Dr Ben this morning and Tess now weighs 8 lbs and is 21 1/2 inches long. She definitely is enjoying her meals!! She has been sleeping pretty good at night- giving me atleast 1- 4 hr stretch at some point each night. She is starting to have 2 or 3 alert times during the day- looking around and checking things out! Tallon continues to LOVE baby Tess and is always trying to tell her a story or what is going on or give her a kiss! I am enjoying keeping her dressed up in girly clothes and Reeves seems to love the evenings when he gets his turn to cuddle with Tess after Tallon goes down for bed. We are extremely thankful for our families. My mom- cooked, cleaned, entertained Tallon and helped me with the baby all last week. I have been lost without her this week but am soo glad we live in the same city vs being 18 hrs apart this time around!! My dad-totally spent almost 2 days cleaning up all the leaves that were in our yard and has been soo helpful with Tallon!! Thank ya'll!! Reeves family has provided dinner and lots of snuggle time with Tess as well as helped with Tallon- Thank ya'll!!!! Uncle Collin and Aunt Aron have already taken Baby Girl's picture several times and I am soo thankful that we have them to help us preserve these memories of our sweet little dark haired child. Our small group has graciously offered to bring meals over the next few weeks and I am soo Thankful!! You do not realized how wonderful it is to NOT have to worry about fixing dinner at this point in our days!!

Tallon stayed close by Pop's side "helping" do yard work. He helped pick up leaves and even pretended to use his backpack as his "blower"!! such an imagination!
Nana and Papa dropped by for a short visit to see Tess.
We are definitely enjoying the milder weather right now! I have several cute videos of Tallon- he asked me to take his picture in his jeep and than after this he asked me to take his picture "praying to God" and he hopped on the ground, bowed his head, folded his hands and started Praying- I asked him what he was thankful for.......

His response..... My Jeep!

Mimi and Pop with Tess! Mimi and Tallon made Christmas sugar cookies 1 afternoon!

My first outing- Reeves and I got to go to Tallon's school Christmas party- He loves his teacher Mrs. Floyd and I enjoyed getting to hear the kids sing several songs and visit with the other moms!
Aron graciously offered to handle getting Mrs. Floyd a Christmas gift from both Clara Beth and Tallon- THANKS Aron!!! Tallon absolutely loves being in class with his cousin!
Mimi came by yesterday evening and we managed to take a few pictures with Tess in 1 of her Christmas dresses. This is the dress Mimi made. I can't wait to take pictures of her in the dress that LiLi bought her- it is beautiful red silk and she and Clara Beth have "matching" dresses!!
Mommy with her 2 kids!!Tallon wanted his picture with Tess in front of the tree...

We have yet to get any Christmas cards out, but let me tell you that is has been a HUGE HIGHLIGHT of my days to go to the mailbox and open Cards from soo many of you! We hope that you and your family have a Merry Christmas!! As we are enjoying the blessing of the new baby girl in our family- it has made me so thankful for the Blessing of the Birth of Jesus- our Savior so many years ago! We celebrate Him- His Life, Death and Resurrection this Season!

2008-12-11T16:14:00.000-08:00

We pretty much just left the picture taking up to Aron and Collin ( who both take WAY better pictures than us), but here are a few pictures from the hospital that we took on our camera- since our personal photographers had to take care of their family also and could not just live at the hospital with us=)!

HERE SHE IS.....

Uncle Robert and Aunt Tiffany were able to drive up from Birmingham to meet Tess. The only immediate family that she still has to meet are Aunt Liz and Uncle Mike and they are coming soon!
Uncle Collin

Proud Aunt Aron
Mimi and Pop
I just love this picture of my dad with his granddaughter- sooo sweet!! There is something special watching your parents as grandparents!
LiLi holding Tess.
Dr. Ben ( our pediatrician and friend) came to see Tess!
Wendy and I with Tess
Uncle Andrew
Na-Na ( Reeves grandmother)

Papa ( my granddad)
Nana with Tess ( Tess is named after her)

Mrs Courtney and Olivia with Tess ( baby Jude is due in less than a month)
Uncle Robert and Aunt Tiffany
1 Proud Big brother!!!

2008-12-09T07:06:00.000-08:00

Uncle Collin captured some absolutely precious pics of Tess in her nursery this past Sunday afternoon! Check them out here. I keep looking at them and just can not get over how perfectly formed Tess is and that she is really ours! I am soo thankful to God for his Goodness to us in this Season of our lives!

In other news- Tess has majorly reversed her days and nights so it has been a rough few nights for me but thankfully- she slept last night- only waking to nurse and then going right back to sleep ( we will see how long this lasts!!) I am definitely a FAN of the NUK pacifiers as she LOVES to suck ( just like her big brother did at this age) . I am savoring the time with her and just wanting to treasure up the sweet newborn sounds and faces as I don't remember much of Tallon at this age.

I, am slowly recovering. I had forgotten alot of the pain and just overall exhaustion of trying to recup from a c-section. I seem to get tired really easily so please bear with me if you have called or emailed. We really want everyone to meet Tess and hold her, but I get worn down so we are trying to be careful and let me recuperate! My mom has been helping me this week and I think there is NO WAY I would have made it without her here to cook, clean, help with Tess, entertain Tallon, give me time to sleep- THANK YOU MOM!!!! It is soo nice to have family nearby and Tallon has enjoyed all the extra attention given to him from Reeves' parents, my dad and his aunts and uncles! Thank ya'll!!!!

HOME

2008-12-06T18:00:00.000-08:00

We are home and adjusting. A Big thank you to Aron for posting pictures and updates while we were in the hospital- Thank You soo much!!! I have a gazillion pictures from the hospital and the many friends Tess has already gotten to meet but for now- I am going to go to bed while I can and rest while I have help during the daytime!
Tess wore the same dress that I wore home from the hospital. Unfortunately, I was NOT feeling well yesterday morning and Tess was extremely fussy so we really don't have too many pictures of her in it!

Check out the hairbow!!! ahhh- I am already LOVING having a girl!
Daddy with Tal and Tess while watching football earlier today!

More on Tal...

2008-12-04T04:53:00.000-08:00

I just talked to my mom this morning, and asked her how Tal was doing. She said he's doing great for the most part, but every now and then he gets a little fussy and says "I want my baby!" How sweet is that big brother?!?!

He Loves Her!!!

2008-12-03T18:28:00.000-08:00

(Aron again)
Of course we all knew he would. Although I will say that on Tuesday night Tallon decided that he no longer wanted a sister. He wanted a brother. And he kept saying that Tess was NOT coming tomorrow. He was NOT going to be a big brother. I've even got a hilarious video of him saying these things that I will try to post on here sometime.

Don't let this kid fool you, though! He never had a moments hesitation in meeting his new sister. I wasn't there, but Collin went with my mom and Tal for Tal's first meeting with Tess this afternoon. And from what I was told, he ADORED her from the very beginning!

Here they are outside, ready to go in the hospital. I love the excitement on his face! He looks like such a big boy!

They meet!

Reeves asked Tal if he wanted to hold her and Tal said yes, and then proceeded to reach for her while standing there. They decided the chair might be a slightly safer option. :)

I love this one! He looks like her protector!

When Tal decided she was too heavy, Li-Li was more than happy to take over.

Smart little girl that she already is, Tess thought to bring Tal a present. He was very thankful!

And Tal gave Tess the precious doll that Rebecca made!

Sweet little itty-bitty hat!

Tal was happy to see Boom-Boom arrive!

I think seeing Rebecca in a hospital bed made Tal a little nervous. You know that's got to be a little scary for a kid. And I'm sure all of the monitors, medicine bags, and those blow-up things on her legs didn't help matters...I think he will be VERY happy to see Mommy get out of bed!

Here are some of her "Hospital bits". We honestly don't know where the child came from! Her hair is dark, and we don't really recognize her as being distinctly "Adams" or "Cannon". She's GORGEOUS, though! We definitely claim her!

Her hair is the BEST! I just can't get over it!

Tal enjoyed some painting while all of this was going on...

And he would come back every now and then wanting to hold her again.

One madly in love Momma!

Okay, so maybe I see a little bit of Rebecca's sister Elizabeth in this one? Actually, the more I'm looking at them the more I'm seeing Elizabeth. Am I right, Dr and Mrs. Adams? Does she resemble Aunt Liz?

I LOVE her tiny toes!

Dr. Shaw, Rebecca's OB. They love him!

What a beautiful family!

Her first bow!

Collin came home, and I took Mak up there to meet Tess. He was so excited! He prayed for her on the way there, and kept talking about all the things he will help her with because he is her "biggest" (this is very important to him) cousin. Sorry the picture is so bad. I was terrified that Tess would roll out of his arms and onto the floor, so I didn't worry to much about the quality of the image. :)

And then my grandmother stopped by to meet her newest great-granddaughter!

It was such a great visit, and I look forward to loving on sweet Tess again tomorrow (and the next day, and the next day....have I mentioned how happy I am that we are here for the newborn stage this time?). Please Pray for Reeves and Rebecca. They are exhausted. Rebecca was feeling nauseous when we were leaving this afternoon, but they were able to get that under control. Pray that her pain is manageable and that she will start to feel like herself again soon. Tess is still nursing great, so pray that that continues. They are having so much fun getting to know their daughter!

She's Here!!!!!

2008-12-03T08:27:00.000-08:00

Hey, y'all! It's Aron, and I am SO HAPPY to announce for Reeves, Rebecca, and Tallon that Tessa Nell Cannon has arrived!!! And she is breath-takingly BEAUTIFUL! Thank you, Lord for this brand new beautiful baby girl! Here are her stats...

Time of birth: 7:51am
Weight: 7 pounds, 6 ounces
Length: 19 inches

The section went really well and we were able to see the sweet little thing as Reeves wheeled her to the nursery just after birth. That's one PROUD Daddy there!

There's nothing sweeter than a FRESH baby!

Reeves showing Li-Li her newest grand-baby

She's GORGEOUS!

Tess spent some time in the nursery being weighed and warmed up. The whole time she was in the bassinet she kept putting her hands in her mouth, sticking her tongue out, and rooting around. That girl was ready to nurse! Thankfully she didn't have to wait long. Tess joined her very happy, very proud Momma in the recovery room. And she nursed like a CHAMP! That girl has got it!

The fierce love that comes over a Momma immediately after giving birth is just the most beautiful thing to me. Rebecca is head over heels for her girl! And doesn't she look so pretty?!?!

Tess has a head full of dark curls! That's something we never thought we would see in a Cannon newborn! Both Reeves and Rebecca were bald as newborns. Her Li-Li is already out shopping for bows. :) She is perfect!

Anne, Rebecca's mom, was able to stay with Rebecca through the section and everything. I know Rebecca is so happy to have her here this time! And Mimi seems pretty happy to be around, too!

I think she already has him wrapped around that sweet little finger of hers! Daddy's in love!

And so is Li-Li!

Beautiful!

I can't say enough how honored I feel to have been there this morning! There is nothing like a baby being born. I can't wait to be a part of this precious girl's life! Tess, you are surrounded by love!

We will have more pics later today after Tal meets his new sister, and Collin meets his new niece! Check back soon!

2

2008-12-01T18:24:00.000-08:00

Less than 48 hrs to go!! I can not believe it is almost here. Tom morning I go to pre-admit testing and than have my last Dr appt at 11:30. I guess I will get Tallon and I both packed sometime tom and than Reeves and I are going to go out to eat tom night and hopefully get some rest before heading to hospital early Wed morning. Not sure if I will post again or not..... We covet your prayers as we transition to a family of 4!

3

2008-11-30T19:10:00.000-08:00

absolutely nothing to report...... we went to church, hung out with some great friends over lunch at Cracker Barrel. Came home and chilled, played games with Tallon, watched a movie and all fell asleep. ate dinner, I cleaned the kitchen and then we just chilled some more.... definitely a great Sunday! just no baby.... yet- but only 3 more days!

4

2008-11-29T16:34:00.001-08:00

Officially, Tess can now come..... I have finished up all of the projects that I had started, have a pretty decently stocked freezer, laundry is done ( for now anyways), our Christmas tree is up.... so, it would be great if she would just come. At least, I know that I only have to make it til Wed if she decides to not come before then=)

Back to my "projects"- I found this blog a few months back and just fell in love with these dolls. I had planned to order one for my niece and for Tess for Christmas but than the creator of these dolls ran a special 1 weekend and I got the materials and the pattern to make the dolls myself. Oh- how FUN!! I have made several for gifts for little girls and wanted to finish up a few more before Tess came so that I would have some on hand to give as gifts. Come to find out- I actually went to college with the girl that makes these dolls- if you are looking for a CUTE gift for a little girl- I would def check out her Etsy store!

Here they are...

Aren't they adorable. The doll on the far Left is the one that Tallon is going to carry up to the hospital to give Tess whenever she finally decides to arrive. and The doll next to her ( with the green ribbon) is for my niece for Christmas!

I also made 2 adorable diaper bags, but I forgot to take pictures of them before I gave them away to 2 of my close friends at their baby shower!

My mom helped me make Tallon and Tess's Christmas stockings yesterday. I am LOVING that my mom now has a sewing machine that can monogram.... sooo cool!!
I think they turned out adorable.....

5

2008-11-28T17:07:00.000-08:00

nothing to report.... still hanging in there.... 5 days left and it is a good thing- I am feeling HUGE!!!

Thankful

2008-11-27T17:43:00.000-08:00

With Grandaddy Adams

With Nana and Papa

We had a wonderful day today- celebrated with my family over lunch, I managed to grab a nap and Reeves got to play cards while Tallon had Fun hanging out with Mimi and Pop, then, we headed to Reeves' family home and celebrated with dinner and we all enjoyed hanging out. Tallon especially enjoyed the great game of hide and seek with Boom-Boom, Makgill and Clara Beth. After spending 3 yrs in Dallas and 2 Thanksgivings without any family at all- I am especially Thankful for God for allowing us to share today with both of our families and all the support and encouragement they give us throughout the year!

Tallon ate 2 helpings of Nana's dressing and then 3 helpings of butterbeans before deciding he was finished with lunch. Nana gave him the Toys R Us catalog and he entertained himself for a LONG time in Papa's chair as he looked at all the toys!

Tallon with both of his great-granddads on my side.

We were blessed to have my mom's sister and her husband here this year.
Tallon loved playing with Uncle John and Aunt Gay.

I took several pictures while we were with my family earlier in the day, but totally neglected to take pictures with the Cannon side of our family! soo sorry!!!! so I am going to steal some off my sister-in-law's blog ( Thanks Aron!!) These are from back on Halloween with LiLi and Boom and Tal's cousins!

All 3 kids LOVE Andrew and Erin!

With LiLi!

With Na-Na ( Tallon's Great-Grandmother on Reeves side of family)

with Boom-Boom!

It was a relaxing and fun day with family! Tonight- we bought our Christmas Tree and it now has lights on it... sooo beautiful!!

only 6 more days.....

Seven

2008-11-26T11:50:00.001-08:00

Seven days.... 1 week from today and Tess will definitely be here. It feels sort of surreal- I hope we are ready.... All morning long I kept thinking- this time next week I won't have a baby in my belly anymore, but in my arms. Ahhhhh- I can not wait!!!! Our soon to be family of 4!

on to other FUN things- Collin was gracious to give up part of his Sunday afternoon and take our last maternity pictures before Tess arrives- Thank you Smith Family!! I am going to post several on here since he gave me his permission- but feel free to check out his blog for the complete edition!!I love my spunky little boy... soon to be BIG BROTHER!

and I am soo thankful for the husband and loving father that Reeves is! Who would have know that 6 1/2 yrs into marriage- God would be blessing us with our 2nd child... a daughter!

It will be soo much fun to take a family picture when she is out of the womb.

Any guesses on her weight?? Tallon was 6 lbs 15 oz at 40 1/2 weeks. Tess will be born at 39 weeks and they estimated her via U/S to already be 6 1/2 lbs 2 weeks ago.... hmmm- I know it is getting tight in there but I never really pictured myself having an 8lb baby?? Would love to hear your guesses!

Eight

2008-11-25T18:16:00.001-08:00

not too much to report... did the Sams and Walmart run today and now we are covered with plenty of toilet paper, paper towels, laundry detergent and other similar items plus I picked up several freezer meals that I can pull out in the next few weeks to feed us! Tallon was a great sport thru it all- he continues to ask me every day- "what we doing today mommy?" "We go to hospicle and get Baby Tess today"!!

I am looking forward to Thanksgiving and the time spent with both our families! We will do lunch with my family and dinner with Reeves and I am hoping to maybe grab a nap that afternoon! Hey- it's hard work eating for 2=)

8 things I am Thankful for today:
1. My precious son who woke me this morning with "what we doing today mommy"? and who has been full of hugs and kisses today for mommy!
2. My husband who came home and spent some time with our son so that I could take a "cat nap" on the couch today.
3. Feeling this sweet little girl move inside my womb and knowing that God is continuing to knit her to His plan!
4. The Sunshine today!
5. God's unfailing and redeeming Love
6. A job that my husband loves!
7. Friends who encourage and walk thru life with me!
8. That I got to eat lunch with my mom today and just hang out for a little bit.

Nine

2008-11-24T10:24:00.001-08:00

I just got back from my 38 week appt. Everything still looks good ( BP great, no swelling and I am holding my weight steady- 23 lbs over what I started at) and the c-section is planned for next Wed, Dec 3rd at 7:30 in the morning, although my Dr is on- call this weekend so you never know... maybe Tess will decide to come early!! He said everything looks great so I guess I will just keep on trucking and try to enjoy Thanksgiving! I will attempt to post some new room pictures later on today and also- Collin and Aron were kind enough to spend part of their afternoon taking maternity pics for us yesterday- Tallon was not too cooperative, but I LOVE what Collin captured for us! Thank you guys sooo much!! They are up on facebook currently and I will see if I can get them to the blog at some point!! It is crazy to think that the belly will be gone (well, hopefully gone) in another week and a half!!! It feels like the 9 months have FLOWN by in soo many ways and I can not wait to meet this little girl God is blessing us with!!

In extended family news
- my brother-in-law- Andrew started a blog for the family business- Tomlinsons so feel free to check it out. You can also now shop online- check it out- their prices can not be beat!

- my other brother-in-law- Collin is hosting a special model search contest- so check it out here

HELP

2008-11-23T17:55:00.001-08:00

I keep trying to upload videos on blogger but cant get it to seem to work- anybody have anything they recommend?!

A week Full of Celebrations

2008-11-23T16:30:00.000-08:00

We have had a week full of celebrations- Tuesday, we celebrated Reeves' birthday. Tallon and I made cupcakes and we sang Happy Birthday to Daddy! Tallon enjoyed also having candles on his cupcake and he helped blow out the candles on both his and Daddy's cupcakes!! too cute!

the best part..... licking the icing off the candles!
Friday morning- Tallon had a Thanksgiving feast at school- Reeves went with him while I spent the morning getting a massage, pedicure and manicure thanks to my sweet husband!!! It was soo relaxing and now I have pretty toes and nails for whenever Tess decides to arrive!

Friday night- my parents fixed fried shrimp and we celebrated both Reeves and my birthday and then Saturday night- Reeves parents fixed hamburgers to celebrate our birthdays. Today, we had a potluck at church- so all in all- this weekend has been great- yummy food and I have not had to cook or clean up=) =)

Tallon had Awana's this afternoon and when Reeves picked him up- his teacher asked Tallon to show Reeves his turkey with what he is thankful for.....Tallon is thankful for applesauce!

and just another cute picture of my silly boy wearing his daddy's glasses

Less than 2

2008-11-20T11:55:00.001-08:00

Well- we hit the 2 week marker yesterday. 13 more days... hard to believe.... will write more soon, but I think I am going to take a nap while Tal is down for one!

VOTE for

2008-11-18T05:29:00.000-08:00

me.... or Reeves because that is probably who would actually use this if I won it!! Anways, I entered this contest and you can win a free Wii- you just have to have the most votes.... so if your willing.... go vote please- my name is listed on the site and it only takes a second and feel free to forward this on to your friends ( if you don't mind!!)

Just click on this link and vote for " Rebecca Cannon"

Happy Birthday

2008-11-18T04:56:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to my Husband!

28 Years.... Wow- we are getting on up there!

I was trying to remember how many birthdays we have celebrated together.... I think this makes at least 10 (maybe 11)!

I LOVE YOU REEVES and am so thankful for your leadership in our home! You are definitely the "better half" in our relationship and I am privileged to call you my husband and best friend!
If I was eloquent with words I would write more, but you know me- definitely not a writer!

From Tallon:

"I wanna tell Daddy Happy Birthday"

How old do you think Daddy is today:
" I think 2"!

and when I asked Tallon what he wanted to get you for your birthday:
" a horse and a guitar"

what kind of cake should we make Daddy:
"chocolate cake" ( I laughed because this is Definitely not what you would have picked but your son loves you and picked what he liked!)

Hope you have a Wonderful Birthday Reeves. We are looking forward to celebrating tonight- just our family!!

(Although Tallon has informed me he wants LOTS of people to be there!)

16

2008-11-17T15:03:00.000-08:00

16 days and counting..... we had a great weekend- busy, but fun!!
We took several pictures with Tallon on Sunday- he looked like such a little man in his vest and corduroy pants! He has really gotten into blocks lately and loves to build.... anything from garages for his cars to park in to houses. Yesterday- he built a camera... and pretended to take our picture!

Tallon and Daddy with his camera!

I love how he has his hand on my belly- He can not wait to meet Tess!!

kisses for Mommy

and hugs too!!!

I love both my men soo much!
can you see the resemblence in the above picture- Is there hope for Tess to have any "Adams" in her??? We will see soon!!

19

2008-11-14T14:20:00.000-08:00

Courtney and I at the shower

WOW- where are the days going? I intended to post yesterday, but it turned out to be a very busy day for Tallon and I. The most exciting part though, was last night- Several girls in our small group through Tess a Baby Shower. It was soo sweet and Tess received so many wonderful gifts- from diapers to clothes to Fun Girly bath towels and sweet monogrammed bibs, burp cloths and blankets to a precious framed 4D pic of Tess with a verse- what a treasure!
We also received our first "girly" book- called Ballerina's. Tallon and I read it to Tess this morning!! Thank you to all our sweet friends for your generosity and kindness!! I remember moving from Dallas and thinking that we would never find friends like we had there, well- we have not replaced our friends from Dallas- they will always hold a special place in our heart and I am thankful for the memories with them, but as I looked around the room last night- I was blown away by the friends God has provided here in SC for us- friends who love us and love our children, friends who desire to raise their children to Know God, Love Him and Serve Him- what a blessing!

I have evidently become too "dependent" on my sister-in-law for pictures and since she was not able to come last night- this is the only picture I have. But Jennie took some pictures as well as several others so once I get ahold of them- I will post them on here! I had wanted to get a picture of my mom and mother-in-law who were both able to be there last night- but I did not get one. I did manage to get Reeves to take a picture of my mom and I After the shower last night at our house!

In Tallon news- he and Daddy finally decided it was cold enough to build a fire... and build a fire they did! Here are my proud men!We are working on "thumbs up" with Tallon ( for some reason, he always holds up his pointer)

This picture is REALLY poor quality but I love this little boy's cheesy grin and he actually did get his "thumb up" in this picture!

Today, Reeves had his 2 upper wisdom teeth removed- I wanted to take a picture and post it- but he won't let me. Let's just say... he handles pain a whole lot better than I do and it has actually not been too bad at all. He was the first case this AM so we were home by 9:45 so I cleaned the downstairs and He has rested all day. Kinda nice to be at home for a change!!

21

2008-11-12T12:25:00.000-08:00

The countdown continues- exactly 3 weeks and Tess should be here! I had my 36 week check-up this AM and am cont to measure correctly. I am feeling quite a bit of saacrum pressure so the Dr checked- but so far- no dilation or effacing ( which I am VERY happy about- I really would like her to wait until the 39 week c-section). Laying down seems to help with the pressure so I am trying to rest some during the day ( although it is pretty much impossible with Tal) . Susan ( the US tech at the office where my mom works) did a sono for me today and now Tess is almost TOO big to see in full! The US estimated Tess to weigh 6 lbs, 6 oz! I knew my belly was growing but WOW- Tallon was 6lbs 150z when he was born so it just makes things seem more real that she is going to be here SOON! We did get some cute pics of partial views of Tess's face ( eye, nose and lips)- and it looks like she is going to def be similar to her big bro in that she kept 1 hand up by her face and across her eyes/forehead throughout the entire scan. so much for swaddling this time around either! You can see her arm coming up by her nose and than around her face in the above pic!
Is that not the SWEETEST FACE!!

23

2008-11-10T17:00:00.000-08:00

Tonight- I carried Tallon up to the hospital for a big brother class. It turned out to be a HUGE hit- they watched a short video, read a book and, he colored a little duck to help entertain Tess during diaper changes, etc and they talked about holding a baby and how to hold a baby and they even practiced with a doll. He learned that the first thing he needs to do is wash his hands and to always ask an adult for help when he wants to hold the baby. It was a fun hour and we both had a good time together interacting and talking about Baby Tess.

When I asked him if he wanted to go to the hospital- his first response was "Tess done growing Mommy?" He is soo sweet and I love that he is excited about his baby sister!

Also- when I kissed him bye as I was heading out the door- Tallon quickly ran to me and said "WAIT- I have to give Baby Tess a kiss bye-bye"!

25

2008-11-08T10:27:00.000-08:00

We are on the countdown now..... 25 days until Tess arrives!

Makgill came over to play 1 afternoon and both boys wanted pics with Baby Tess! (Mak took the picture of Tal and I and Tal took the picture of Mak and I- pretty impressive for a 4 and 3 yr old!)

I had my 35 week check-up this past Tuesday and am measursing right on target. I am having some braxton hicks contractions but have found that if I stay hydrated they don't seem to appear as much. Tallon and I have been staying busy- I am trying to enjoy these last few days of just he and I so we have been going to storytime at the library and spending some beautiful Fall days at the park and outside in our yard. I had to go to a mandatory 30 min inservice at work this past Thursday so I carried him ( and a snack) with me and after my inservice- we headed down to the nursery. Tallon's face lit up- we talked about Mommy coming to the hospital and Baby Tess coming to the nursery and the Dr checking her out. He has since asked me atleast once a day if we are going to the "hopsicle" ( hospital- pronouced like popsicle except with the Ha) to get Baby Tess today. and He also has been frequently asking me if Tess is done growing and can come out. He has been very verbal for awhile now, but Reeves and I are constantly chuckling at comments Tallon makes and how much he really does seem to understand all that is going on.

so.... the date is set..... December 3rd! Right now, the section will be at 12:30 but I am still hoping that we might can get it moved up to 7:30 ( we will see!) The nursery is almost finished and I have been laundering and folding all of these tiny, sweet pink dresses! Hopefully, we will get some items up on the wall this weekend!

Now for some pictures of the past few weeks:

We headed over to help celebrate 1 of Tallon's favorite classmates- Cooper's birthday- complete with a petting zoo- sooo fun!

Tallon LOVES to be outdoors ( which is going to make things very interesting with a new baby and winter coming soon!) He has also recently gotten into taking bike rides with his daddy! Uncle Collin has a bike trailer and Reeves has been AWESOME at taking Tallon for bike rides on the weekends so I can take several naps!!!!
More pics with 1 of Tal's favorite people- Makgill! These boys have soo much fun together!
We have a GREAT climbing tree in our front yard!
and... our new dining room set!! Someone from church was selling theirs and so we got a great deal on a practically new set!! I can't wait to use it more! ( unfortunately, the dining room table ( much to Reeves' dismay) has become my new sewing area! My mom is letting me use her old machine and I have really enjoyed making several dolls and a diaper bag!! ( I will post pics soon!)

She doesn't know I'm doing this...

2008-10-28T18:31:00.000-07:00

and I hope she doesn't mind. But she sent me (sister-in-law, Aron) an invitation to post on her blog so I can update all of you when my beautiful niece makes her debut in 7 short weeks. So, I'm testing it out to see if it works, and while I'm at it I decided to post some pictures of Rebecca's cute hair from a couple of weeks ago. I think she was 38 weeks here. You look GREAT, Rebecca!

Thoughts by Tallon

2008-10-28T15:48:00.001-07:00

Tallon and Daddy are in the middle of a serious game of tackle and football in the den, while mom is chilling on the couch- Tallon took a time out to say this.......

"My tummy starting to grow real big......
like your belly" (pointing at mommy)

33 weeks

2008-10-24T15:04:00.000-07:00

I am posting the next picture because I like this "angle " better.
Well, this week has flown by- I had my Dr Appt last Monday- everything went well and I was measuring on target, BP looks good, not really any swelling and he set the Definite date for Dec 3rd. We are hoping to have the OR for a 7:30 delivery time. We had small group Monday night.

Tues- Tallon and I headed to storytime at the library and enjoyed the day together!

Wed- I worked a 12 hr shift in the unit- EXHAUSTING! I joked with everyone that I needed a crown with "Blood Queen" on it as I spent most of the day hanging a blood product of some type up for my patients!

Thursday- Tallon and I stayed in our PJ's until 3:30 in the afternoon- I cleaned out 2 closets and we played and read books before getting ready to head over to Pop and Mimi's for a DELICIOUS fried shrimp dinner!!! I stayed after dinner and Mom gave me some basic sewing lessons so that I can attempt to make a doll for Clara Beth and Tess and some fun burp cloths!

Friday- I ran some errands while Tal was at school and than Mom and Dad came over and helped me put china in our new china cabinet and clean up Tess's room and the living room!! We also hung a mirror up in the kitchen. Thanks soo much for all your help mom and dad!! Our house is finally ( after almost living here for 2 months- starting to feel like things are put together! Reeves has a Walk Thru the Bible conference that he is leading tonight and tom morning. and Tallon has TWO birthday parties tom so Saturday is looking to be just as busy!!

I am feeling pretty good though and having fun putting the finishing touches on Tess's room- I hot-glued some cute fringe on the chandelier shades today and also bought some name letters to put up in her room (50% off at H0bby Lobby!!) Mom is still working on the curtains but they should be completed in another week!

and just because I think he is going to be THE CUTEST Big Brother!

Happy Birthday LILI

2008-10-18T08:34:00.001-07:00

LiLi's birthday was yesterday!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY LILI! We celebrated in big style with a delicious lasagna dinner and a yummy chocolate cake for desert. The kids all loved singing Happy birthday to LiLi and licking the candles after they helped LiLi blow them out!!
We love you LiLi- Have FUN in Disney World!!

Everyone helped blow the candles out!

Here are several pictures of LiLi with her 3 grandchildren from Thursday afternoon. The kids were reading Brown Bear to LiLi! It is crazy to think that the next time LiLi's birthday comes- she will have 5 grandkids- I am sure the kids will figure out a way for everyone to get in her lap- they love their LiLi!

Cousins

2008-10-18T08:13:00.001-07:00

Makgill and Clara Beth came over to play for the afternoon on Thursday. Tallon LOVES his cousins soo much and was excited they came over. I had a little pumpkin craft for them to make out of paper bags so we did that for awhile and then the boys jumped on the jeep for some fast riding while Clara Beth continued to make her pumpkin "pretty"! She definitely enjoyed the art project more than the boys=) Aron had brought over a movie for the kids to watch and have "quiet time".... ummm.. that lasted about 5 minutes and they were all racing around my house so needless to say... everybody ( including mommy!) was EXHAUSTED Thursday night.

the boys painting their pumpkins
Clara Beth painting her "pretty pumpkin"!
off they go!

7 weeks to go

2008-10-15T14:31:00.000-07:00

I hit the 32 week marker today- only 7 more weeks until we get to meet Tess. December 3rd seems to be creeping up quickly.!
We have been "debating" names for a while now and finally have decided to go with

Tessa Nell Cannon

I LOVE IT- definitely girly and she will carry on my grandmother's name- Nell. I am close to my Nana so this is very special to me. Reeves wanted to stick to names that start with "T" and we both like Tessa so there you go. We plan on calling her Tess.

31 weeks

2008-10-09T05:02:00.001-07:00

Well, I am soo far behind on the blog, but thought I would atleast post a few pictures from our weekend away last weekend. Reeves and I decided to head to the beach for 1 last weekend away before the baby arrives in 8 weeks- That's right- 8 weeks from yesterday! I can not believe how fast these months have gone by! Tallon spent the weekend at my parents and would not let me unpack his suitcase on Monday because "I might go spend the night at Mimi and Pops and play on the jet skiis." That's right..... our child had 1 night at home with us and thought he might would like to go back to Mimi and Pop's home.... hmmmm!

We missed Tallon but had a WONDERFUL weekend away. I enjoyed a little bit of shopping at the outlets and read a book while sitting down by the pool ( we forgot our beach chairs). Reeves still managed to get to watch some college football on Saturday and we got to go see the movie FireProo! We enjoyed eating at a Brazilian Steakhouse ( Rioz)- talk about delicious! I am not normally a huge meat eater but I thoroughly enjoyed trying all the different cuts of meat and believe it or not- Reeves actually was full before I was. By the way. can i tell you how PROUD I am of my husband.... while I have been eating just about constantly and growing a baby, he has been exercising and totally watching his diet and has lost approx 15 lbs the last 3 months ( I laughed the other night because I have basically "put on" every lb he has lost!- I had gained a total of 13.7 lbs at my last OB appt on Monday)! Reeves looks fantastic and I am completely in awe of his will-power ( mostly because I have ZERO willpower when it comes to eating- especially chocolate!!)

Well- I did manage to have Reeves take a picture of our 31 week baby girl!! She is definitely GROWING!

30 weeks

2008-09-30T19:52:00.000-07:00

WOW- I hit the 30 week mark today! It feels like this pregnancy is flying by... and it is- only 9 more weeks and the baby will be here=) Reeves worked hard ALL weekend painting the room- including the trim- Thank you soo much sweetheart!!! we just have the ceiling left to paint and we can start moving the furniture in. I still look at the pink walls and think..... WOW- we are really having a GIRL!! It blows my mind after all of the blue and balls and trucks we have been around the past 3 yrs with sweet Tallon! I still am WAY way behind on blogging- I have pics from our birthday bash with friends Luke and Anna 2 weeks ago and several fun photos of our days with Tallon, but I am tired so thus, blogging will have to take a backseat. I came down with a HORRIBLE virus and managed to have to LEAVE work due to projectile vomiting within 2 hrs of arriving at work!! talk about feeling horrible- the unit was slammed- completely busy ( as are most Monday mornings) and I could not manage to stand up due to feeling faint and sick. Thankfully, several other nurses helped me out and my mom drove me home. I am so thankful that my mother-in-law graciously kept Tallon yest afternoon so I could spend the day in BED recuperating. I actually ate my first meal tonight so I am starting to feel my strength return. I am just praying that Reeves and Tallon don't come down with this!!

A Thankful Mommy

2008-09-23T19:18:00.000-07:00

Tallon started Awana Cubbies this past week at church. I was not sure how he would do with memorizing Scripture, but he learned his verse - God loves us and Sent His Son relatively easily.
We usually ask Tallon what he wants to Thank God for before nap time and bedtime so he often lists different people or items ( like his jeep) and we will Thank God for them.

We sat down for dinner tonight and prayed- often- Tallon will interject in and help Reeves finish the prayer ( usually just Thank you for this food). Tonight- Tallon interjected just as Reeves said "Thank you for this food" and Tallon kept on saying.... "Thank you God loves us and Sent His Son."

How sweet to hear Truth come out of my son's mouth!

Lord,
May Tallon come to Know you, Love you and Serve You with all his heart, soul and mind. Give us Wisdom as we seek to parent him in a way that Glorifies your name!

Many of you know that this has been a difficult few weeks for us with Tallon and discipline and just learning how to deal with his strong- will. I am soo Thankful God gave me a glimpse of Tallon's heart to encourage me to not lose faith. He is at work- even in a young child of only 3 yrs.

ROLL TIDE ROLL

2008-09-21T18:19:00.000-07:00

Tallon comes from quite a heritage.... My parents both graduated from Alabama and I spent several years traveling to Tuscaloosca and cheering on Alabama, Reeves' parents both graduated from USC, I graduated from Clemson University ( Go Tigers!) and well.... you all know who Reeves cheers for with his entire heart- GAMECOCKS!! Soo... needless to say..... Tallon can be heard saying " Roll Tide Roll, GO GAMECOCKS and GO TIGERS!! Poor Boy- such confusion. I have no doubt that in the end.... Daddy will win and his son will be all Gamecocks!!

Tallon received a birthday package in the mail earlier this week from Uncle Robert and Aunt Tiffany- and 1 of the gifts was a nice Alabama shirt!! THANKS SOO MUCH!!!!
On Thursday- Tallon and I headed over to Pop's to hang out and have lunch so of course.... I had to put Tallon in his Alabama shirt!!! Tal even asked to wear 1 of Pop's hats so I had to grab a picture!!
We had spent some of Tal's birthday money on some cowboy boots and hat so we had to show Pop a preview of Tal's halloween outfit. ( We are going as Woody from Toy Story!)

giving a thumbs-up with Pop- Thanks for a FUN morning and lunch Pop!! we love you!

musician

2008-09-21T18:14:00.000-07:00

Tallon LOVES his guitar that Uncle Andrew and Aunt Erin gave him for his birthday. The first night after he received it- I checked in on him before I went to bed and this is what I found...

He fell asleep with the guitar- too cute!!!

Tallon loves to play his guitar while we sing now so don't be concerned if you come over and Tallon wants you to sing with him while he strums along

2008-09-21T11:14:00.001-07:00

check out the post "full speed ahead again..."- I added a cute video of Tal painting Tess's room

3

2008-09-20T18:43:00.000-07:00

3 years old
September 15, 2008

Family Birthday Party- Sept 14, 2008

A BIG thanks to Mimi for decorating the cake....
MICKEY MOUSE!

Tallon loved showing his cake to everyone as they arrived-
I LOVE Mak's expression in the below pic! Tallon LOVES his cousins!
Tallon showing Nana ( great grandmother) his cake!PAPA- you have to wait until after we sing Happy Birthday for some cake=)

Tallon showing Boom Boom his cake
He adores his grandaddy ( and I am pretty sure the feeling is mutual=)
Tallon got a LOT of FUN presents from our family-

Tal's Big gift....
A JEEP!
Aunt Erin and Clara Beth
Great Grandaddy Adams
Nana ( Great Grandmother)
Tallon with Mimi and POP
Tallon loves LiLi- she and Boom Boom gave Tal an AWESOME craft table- we have already gotten soo much use out of it=) Thanks~
Tallon showing off his guitar skills to Boom Boom!

I think I will have another taste.....
Somehow I missed getting pics of Uncle Collin, Aunt Aron, and Uncle Andrew but Collin was taking pictures for me so I will post those as soon as I get them
(I am sure they will be MUCH better- can I say how nice it is to have such a great photographer in the family)
Thanks for coming everyone and for the nice gifts!!
We love ya'll!