Harner Haven

MRI Results

2012-02-09T09:43:00.001-08:00

Drum roll please.......

Yesterday at about 3:30 pm we got the news we'd been hoping and praying for. Logan got the all clear!! He no longer has a Chiari! Wow, what a difference this surgery has made with the Chiari and his overall health! We are so thankful and grateful for Dr. Reisner and Children's Healthcare of Atlanta! They are all such amazing people. The entire staff here really loves and cares for their patients and parents alike.

We got to the hospital super early. We anticipated much more traffic like previous visits. It only took us 25 minutes this time. We passed time just sitting in the car listening to music and Logan watched a movie. We would rather be early than late.

The MRI was scheduled for 9:45 but they didn't end up taking him back there until about 10:15. Good thing they have cartoons and that we own a Leapfrog Explorer! That thing is a life saver, highly recommend it or something like it.

Since Logan wasn't allowed anything to eat after midnight and nothing to drink (clear liquids up until 5:45) we skipped breakfast entirely. The cafeteria was closed by the time they took him so we decided just to wait until 11 when they opened for lunch. Justin and I headed down to The Zone to pass some time. It's a super cool play area they have for kids and families downstairs. Clown shows, pizza making, ice cream parties, movie nights, all sorts of things. Well, today it just so happens that some of THE ATLANTA BRAVES were having a meet and greet! Amazing! Justin is a huge Braves fan so he was i Heaven. AND it just so happens that I decided to wear my Braves hoodie to the hospital! Talk about a meant to be situation. Of all days!! We got some pictures and an autographed baseball cap for Logan. We wish he could have been down there with us but it didn't work out that way. But was a great time waster for sure! Lunch was so good after that wait. I had some yummy Cajun Shrimp Jambalaya from the cafeteria. Who says you can't eat good in the hospital!!

When he woke up after sleep for a good hour and a half he got 2 popsicles and a gatorade. He got dressed and we headed to Dr. Reisner's office. It is great that it is only about 50 feet from the hospital, very convenient. We did end up waiting a little over an hour to be seen but that office is SLAMMED! And we didn't have a set time so I am sure that made a difference.

We had high hopes that everything was ok. We know his quality of life has been greatly improved. He showed no previous symptoms. And has been all boy, no inhibitions at all. He is more vibrant and can really run with the big dogs like never before! He is doing so amazing!

We treated him to his favorite, cheeseburger and french fries after we saw the doc. Don't worry, he didn't starve. We did go to the hospital with an arsenal of snacks in tow! So he munched on that til he got some real food. That boy can eat! And he followed it up with a chocolate chip cookie ice cream sandwich that was huge and ended up sharing with daddy! ;)

We ran around the hospital for a while letting him enjoy the train as he always does! And to let traffic die down. We are glad this day is over and that we got some great news!

You can click on the image to make it bigger. As you can see in the pre-op and post-op images, the Chiari is GONE! Such a miracle and such a success! We hope he continues on this path and that he can continue to live a normal, healthy life!

The Journey of Parenthood Blog Giveaway

2012-02-07T05:13:00.001-08:00

I have an awesome blog friend named Emily Parker. Her blog is the bomb!!! She always had good advice and really tells it how it is. That is not a bag thing. I love her writing style and she really just knows how to keep you interested. She is a mother of 2 and rockin' it I must say!

She recently revamped her blog and it's starting to come together nicely. It looks awesome. She is doing a blog give away. And guess what, IT'S A COACH PURSE! Man!!!! And a $25 Stella and Dot Jewelry gift certificate. She is an Independent Stella and Dot seller. How generous and how exciting! :) She is totally legit, I have won something from her blog before! A cute red and gold Stella and Dot necklace! Love it!

Here are the rules: (From Emily herself)

For your 1st entry: Follow my blog! Leave a comment on this post letting me know that you're a follower. Example: "I'm a follower"

For your 2nd entry: Blog about the giveaway with a link to this post. Once you have blogged about it leave me a comment here including the link to the ACTUAL blog entry. Example: "I blogged www.journeyofparenthood.com/revampandgiveaway"

For your 3rd entry: Post my button on your sidebar of your blog, then leave a comment on this post including your blog where the button is posted. Example: "I'm showing off your button! www.journeyofparenthood.com"

For your 4th entry: Post the link of THIS blog entry to your facebook page then comment on this post letting me know. Example: "I posted a link on facebook!"

For your 5th entry: Visit my Stella and Dot site (www.stelladot.com/emilyparker) and pick out your three favorite pieces. Then leave a comment on this post telling me you're favorites. Example "I totally love the serenity necklace, the sidewinder ring, and the soiree studs!"

Entry Rules

You must leave a comment in order to enter
You must leave a separate comment for each entry (it'll make it easier to pick a winner)
Up to 5 entries per person but you don't have to enter all 5 times
Your entry must meet the above requirements or it will be removed from the running
The winner will be randomly selected at random.org
The winner will be announced on Tuesday February 14th at 1:00 PM
Once the winner is announced you will have one week to contact me or another winner will be chosen. If you'd like to leave your contact information (e-mail address) with your entries, that's great, or just contact me if you're the winner so I can ship your prizes to you!
I will contact the winner and we can work out how you want to spend your $25 Stella and Dot credit.

So head on over to www.journeyofparenthood.com and follow the rules to be entered to win!!!

DOWN.....

2012-02-02T07:06:00.000-08:00

pounds!!

So, I ~~don't~~ ~~want~~ to, ok so I will, toot my own horn! I am down 10 pounds since I started my health kick on January 13th! I must say that I am super proud of myself. 10 pounds might not seem like alot but it is very hard to get motivated to lose. So, I am very proud of every one of those 10 pounds!!!

I am amazed that it hasn't actually been that hard this time around. I have more determination and motivation than ever before! It's great!! I am still saying no to sodas and sweet tea, still saying no to sweets and tons of cards, and just generally paying attention to what I put in my body. I am still enjoying my workouts all well.

Just a little update! Hopefully next time I can post that I am down.....20!

Meeting Liam

2012-01-30T05:13:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago I got a phone call on my cell phone while I was at work. I didn't answer since I didn't recognize the number. I tend to do that alot. I figure, Hey, if it's important they'll leave a message. So, I just let it go to voicemail. I listened to it right away since even though you ignore a call, if they leave a voicemail it tends to peak your curiosity. Turns out it was the mother of a little boy who has been diagnosed with the same condition as Logan, Chiari Malformation. I had forgotten that we gave permission to Logan's neurosurgeon for him to give our # to other families who might be going through this and want to talk and get an idea of what it was like and will be like. I didn't mind at all. This was the first call I'd gotten.

Jessica is the mother's name. She asked if I could call and speak with her about the condition and what we've been through. She also gave me her email address so I emailed her right away. For me it's easier since I'm working all day and have easy access to email. I told her it was nice to hear from her, that we'd be happy to chat with them, but would they be interested in meeting for lunch one weekend instead? I guess I'm the type of person who would rather meet in person than speak on the phone. Especially about something so involved, long and drawn out as this way. I wanted to meet them face to face, let them get a feel for the situation, meet Logan, see his scar, and just ask any and all questions they had. I figured it would be a great week to meet new friends too. Afterall, they are going through the exact same thing as we have with Logan. It's nice to connect with people who are in the same boat, have been there, and you can relate to.

We met Jessica, Mike, and Liam Saturday at Wild Wing Cafe for lunch. They have lots of food options, is good, and fine for families. It was perfect. They live in Decatur which is not right down the street from us. They suggested to meet up near us. Jessica has family that lives is Cumming and they were visiting with them after meeting with us. So it actually did work out perfectly. We had a nice lunch. The boys warmed up to each other finally. They were both a little shy at first but as soon as Liam's race car came out it totally broke the ice. Logan didn't want to share for some reason which isn't really like him. He acted out a little bit but after we ate they played and ran around some. It was great.

Jessica and Mike were super sweet. We told them Logan's story. We started with the sleep apnea, his tonsils and adenoid removal fiasco, and finally to his MRI and Decompression surgery. It was all a total whirlwind. It was hard to separate his stay at Scottish Rite in January from his stay in May. It kind of ran together. But we told them the basics. They asked lots of questions and said we did help to ease their fears. That's why I thought it was important for them to meet face to face and see Logan and see how well he's doing. Every kid is different, every kid responds differently to situations, no one recovers the same way from things as others. But it gave them hope and I was glad we could do that for them.

I think God put them in our lives for a reason. It just so happens that Liam is at the same age as Logan was when he was diagnosed. The herniation size of their chiari's is only 1 mm difference. Logans' was 14 mm, Liam's in 15 mm. They both see the same ENT. They both are having their surgery done by Dr. Andrew Reisner. Just a lot of similarities. So both parties have been going through a lot of the same things. All of Logan's previous symptoms have been no more since the surgery and they saw how well he is doing with it all. I know it had to have lightened their hearts and make their worry much less. Here's hoping that we made some life long friends in them. Thanks for meeting with us Jessica, Mike and Liam.

You can click here to follow Liam's story!

Resolution

2012-01-24T05:11:00.001-08:00

This year the resolution I am making to myself is to get in shape. This is probably at least 75% of most people's resolution. And not any different than resolutions I have made in the past. BUT, this year has been different. It's only January 24, I know that. But I have a feeling this year is MY year. To actually follow through, get my butt into shape, and just feel better about myself.

I am not gonna lie, working out is HARD! Eating healthier and smaller portions is HARD! Passing up my crutch, sweet tea, and not indulging myself in sweets and whatever else I see I want, is HARD! But taking off the weight gained by all that junk is even harder! So, I am totally motivated this year to lose the fat, lose the flab! I wanna be trim and cute and just feel and look my best!

I found this and I am totally using it as my new motto! So far so good!

I must say I am proud of myself! And it makes me happier that others have told me they are proud of me as well. It's a great motivator. I am tired of being overweight, tired of nothing fitting me, not looking good on me, tired of feeling so blah! I wanna feel GOOD! And I am on the right track. And even though I've only been working out since Friday January 13 I am already feeling/seeing results. No, I am not skinny and yes I still have flab but I am trying to stay positive. It took years to put the weight on so I know it's not gonna just fall off. As much as I'd like for that to happen it just isn't reality. The following picture is pretty much me.

I do have to be honest with myself. I know I will never be a size 2 and I don't think I really want to be. But I am not liking my current size and would like to reduce it by half! So, 4 sizes would be awesome! I'll take 2 for now! :) It will come in time. I am short, 5 foot exactly, so extra weight just has no place to go. It doesn't distribute as well as someone who is taller. At least that is my perception. I know I am not at a healthy weight. I know I have a ways to go. But the fact that I have started and am actually enjoying it is a big plus. I am just keeping my eye on the prize!

I have made the decision to be a better me in 2012! I've been eating smaller portions, better and more natural foods, drinking plenty of water and green tea, and exercising my butt off! I am very proud of myself! If others can do it so can I! I am determined! I wanna look and feel good! We are headed to Panama City for a week long vacation in July. I wanna buy some cute new clothes and maybe a bathing suit I won't be so embarrased or self conscious to wear. I wanna enjoy myself without looking in the mirror and not liking what I see. I doubt I'll be rocking a bikini. No matter how small I've ever been I have never been comfortable in one. But who knows, maybe I'll live a little!

With all that said I will continue on this path. I know I can do it. I am determined to do it. Prove it to myself, prove it to everyone! It's time to take control of my life and better my health. It's a total lifestyle change and I am finally willing to make it. I WANT to make it. Now that my attitude has changed I am ready for my body to change too!

Labor Day 2011

2012-01-19T12:58:00.000-08:00

**LOTS OF PICTURES...AGAIN**

Ah, let's see. We took a trip with my parents to Mississippi over the Labor Day weekend. Mister-Stippy as Logan called it. We hadn't been since Logan was 13 months old. Before that it was when Logan was 4 months old and we were there for my Grandfather's funeral.

I was born in Mississippi but have been a Georgia Peach since I was 4 years old. My mom was born and raised there as well. We moved here in I think 1984 when my Dad got a job transfer. It's sad to say but I'd much rather call Georgia my home than Mississippi. It's not very exciting and not very pleasing to the eye, at least not the parts I've seen. I like my good ole ATL!

We didn't do a whole lot but eat and sleep it felt like. Yes we visited with family and friends but besides that we ate and slept. So much eating that I got sick Saturday night and was not feeling too hot the next day or so. Just too much food in a short amount of time and not really healthy stuff. My stomach just couldn't handle it.

There is an AWESOME restaurant there that we have to visit every time we go. Especially since the visits are few and far between. It's Jerry's Catfish House. Hands down THE BEST fried dill pickles and THE BEST fried catfish anywhere! I don't see how it could get any better than this! Logan doesn't even like pickles and he ate almost an entire basked of fried dill pickles by himself. We ended up ordering a 2nd basket cuz the looker pickle hog took them all! The food is delish but the building is pretty cool too. It looks like an Igloo on the outside. When you see it for the first time you're like "Woah, what is that?" But it makes for a good conversation piece, especially for the kiddos! I wish, and don't, that it was closer! We'd get to enjoy it more but we'd be hating ourselves for overindulging!

We also went to Logan's Raodhouse for my Uncle Thomas's birthday. I wish I could say the same for this place as I did for Jerry's but I just can't. The food is just mediocre. We have family friends who eat there once a week. Glad I'm not part of that family! Nothing to write home about at all. But it was a fun get together and cool that Logan got to eat at Logan's! The server was pretty awesome too! We really had a great time!

The sad part is that was the last time I got to visit with my Grandma. She passed away on November 28, 2011. It also happens to be Logan's birthday. She's been sick for a long time. She had congestive heart failure and had been in and out of the hospital for years for various issues. It was just her time and it seems she went peacefully. I'm thankful for even the short time we got to spend with her on this trip. And I know she was glad to see us. She hadn't seen Logan in the flesh since he was a baby. We've sent pictures and cards but it's just not the same. I do regret though that we didn't get a picture with her. I will always wish that we had done that but I can't change the past. I don't know why we didn't.

It was a pretty short, whirlwind trip but we ate well, a little too well, and got lots of sleep! :) I'm glad we got to go. I love road trips and visiting. It's just part of my nature. I wish we could go more but time and money doesn't always allow. Thankful for what we do get to go and do though.

4th of July 2011

2012-01-19T09:28:00.000-08:00

**LOTS OF PICTURES**

My parents invited us to go camping with them for the July 4th weekend. They got a new pop up camper last year so they wanted to test it out. They've had one since I was in high school but decided it was time for an upgrade. It's MUCH nicer than the one they had before. Not that there was anything wrong with the other one. Hey, I am not going to complain. It's not a tent, it has a/c, and is much more comfy than sleeping on the ground. I don't mind camping when it's not really camping! ;)

We went to Bolding Mill Camp Ground. We've been several times before. It's nice and quiet. Not too much to do but hey it's camping. You're supposed to just enjoy the great outdoors! We take books, Logan rides his bike, we listen to music, we watch movies on the flat screen tv my Dad has hooked up in the camper. Told ya it's not really camping! But we like it!

My parents were heading up there Thursday June 30th after work to set everything up. We were set to head up there Friday night after we got off work. Well, the planner and surpriser that I am, decided to take Friday off, head up to the campground early Friday morning, and surprise my parents by spending an extra day up there with them. I never let on and they had no idea we were coming, not even an inkling! It was great! I am good with secrets, let me tell ya!

We knew what they were up to that Friday morning since my mom thinks she has to text me with every little thing she does, ha! Which is fine, this time it worked out. We knew they were headed to their favorite place on Earth, Wal-mart! Which is not too far from the campground. So instead of heading to the camper to wait on them to return we decided to make a pit stop at Walmart. We walked and walked around the store, they were no where in site. But we parked right next to them in the parking lot so we knew they were still there. All of a sudden I heard "Logan!" My mom found us first and I thought for sure it was b/c I had just gotten onto him for trying to run ahead and being too loud but she assured me she just happen to look up and though she was seeing things. It was us! Talk about a surprise! Needless to say they were happy to see us and we're glad we got the extra day to just relax and not have to worry about really doing anything.

The weekend went well. It was hot but that didn't stop Logan from running, playing ball, riding his bike like a fool! This was really the first time since he got his bike for Christmas of 2010 that he has had a good chance to get out and ride. We escaped with only one minor scrape from a fall. But Nana doctored him up and he was on his way! We all had a good time but I think Logan most of all! He always asks if we can go camping with Nana and Pop! He loves them and they of course adore him too! It's always nice to get away from reality for a bit. We unfortunately didn't get to enjoy a fireworks display. The city of Gainesville had decided not to do them. Same for lots of places who normally do them. It's just so darn expensive. I wasn't really that disappointed since Logan actually isn't a big fan of them anyway. Maybe in 2012 he'll be a little more into them.

Easter 2011

2012-01-19T05:01:00.000-08:00

You laugh but I am so that far behind! Again, just been plain lazy about my blog for the last like 8 months! So I gotta start this far back! Yes, I am that awesome!

Anyway, we had Easter dinner at our house, same as 2010. My parents, my bro and his girlfried, Justin's parents, and Aunt Sharon all came over to celebrate. That's the usual crew! It's not anything too exciting. I made a Kroger Ham, they are so good! Who needs Honey Baked at $50 for a 9 lb ham when you can get a 10 lb ham that tastes to me just as good as Honey Baked, for $20!!! No contest! Even though I do LOVE me some Honey Baked Ham. We had my famous Hash Brown Casserole and Squash/Onions as well. My mom made some type of cake but honestly I can't remember what it was! Is that bad?

I am happy to report that I found my Easter dress this year at Ross for only $12.99! I think that's a bargain and I loved the colors. I am not that into florally print. I loved the polka dots and just think it's a fun little dress, especially for the price! Justin's parents (Grandma & Granddaddy) insisted on buying him a suit for Easter. It actually turned out super cute and boy was he proud of that thing!

After we ate dinner and had dessert Logan hunted Easter Eggs. I don't really think our yard is too good a place to hunt them, not too many hiding places, but Logan doesn't seem to mind. We had a TON of the plastic eggs but kept running out of places to hide so they weren't quite HIDDEN very well. I did get some shots of him hunting eggs but they didn't turn out that great so they aren't making an appearance here.

Overall, it was a nice little get together with the family!

Wordless Wednesday!

2012-01-18T06:24:00.000-08:00

Camera Dump Coming Soon!

2012-01-17T12:07:00.000-08:00

So, I am a super slacker! And it seems I am very lazy too, when it comes to some things. Like this blog!! Geez! I don't think it's that I am lazy, per se. I think I just don't actually take much time or put it as a priority most of the time. But I want to get better, I really do. I spend most of the time blog stalking! I do read all the blogs, just can't seem to get motivated to nurture my own. I need to take tips and cues from these ladies: Emily, Kelly, Rachael, Katie, & Danielle! These girls ROCK!

I am WAAAAY behind on pictures or updating so I'll make a promise to myself right now. Now that I have found my missing SD card, I want to update with doing a camera dump on things like Halloween, yes I said Halloween, like almost 3 months ago, Logan's 4th birthday, and Christmas! Hopefully it will be done tonight or tomorrow. Knowing me it will be tomorrow, LOL!

I am kind of excited about it too! Since I don't think I've really even fully looked at all these pictures either! It will be good to look back and enjoy the memories!

Hope for Hallie

2012-01-11T09:06:00.000-08:00

Soon to be Hope From Hallie!

We have been sporting our Hope for Hallie Bracelets! Have you?

Please continue to love on, support, and follow The Green's!

He Only Takes the Best

2011-12-27T10:18:00.001-08:00

God saw you getting tired
and a cure was not to be
so he put his arms around you
and whispered,
"Come to Me"

With tearful eyes we watched you
and saw you pass away
and although we love you dearly
we could not make you stay.

A Golden heart stopped beating
hard working hands at rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us
He only takes the best

These words have really been on my heart the last couple of days.

As most of you know Chris & Katie Green lost their baby girl, Hallie, on 12/24. She was born with Trisomy 13 on 12/19 and lived 6 days. Although her little life was short she made a HUGE impact on the world. Her facebook page Hope for Hallie has had a tremendous response with followers, over 3,000! Wow! How much does that say about the love for the Green's, Baby Hallie, and the Lord.

My heart is still aching for them. It's hard to think of them with a dry eye. As a mother I can only imagine what it would be like to lose a child, especially at Christmas. It's unfathomable but it happens more than any of us should have to see. No one knows why and none of us will ever truly understand why these things happen. All we can do is embrace it and know that God always has a plan. With Hallie He has taught so many people in such a very short amount of time just what He is all about, that He has a hand in everything, and to show us what real love is. The love, support, prayer, gifts, donations, food that the Green's have received is overwhelming. It's amazing and wonderful. I am so glad that they are SO far from being alone. They do have a long road of healing ahead of them but we know from their blog that healing has already begun. It's the constant thoughtfulness, kindness, prayers and support that they continue to receive that is slowly but surely healing them and paving the way to brighter days. That and their unfailing faith in God himself.

They have graciously shared their journey. Here is a link to photos that a dear friend of theirs, Christy Martin, so lovingly captured for them as they welcomed baby Hallie into the world. They are just beautiful and will be treasured forever.

Hallie and her family have really been an inspiration to us all. Thank you Chris & Katie for sharing your story and your beautiful daughter with all of us. Thank you for being honest and up front when you just wanted to hide. So thankful that you had as many days with her as you did. Although her life lasted on days, those memories will last a lifetime. She is forever in all our hearts.

Hallie is Here!

2011-12-20T05:12:00.000-08:00

Hallie Lynn Green

4lbs 15oz

18 3/4 inches

If you'd like to take them a meal (or send a gift card!), Please sign up here! The Green's Meal Train

And if you'd like to donate ANY amount to help the Green family you can do so by clicking here! Hope for Hallie Hallie's life is so amazing already. She has a cleft palate and lip, yet has drank from a bottle! She is such a little fighter. All I know so far is that at birth her heartbeat was strong and she is breathing on her own.

No one but her creator knows what this little girl faces. What her parents and grandparents and all who love her will face. But this promise we can hold to be true:

"Know therefore that the LORD your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations" Deuteronomy 7:9

Blitzen is here!!!

2011-12-07T06:12:00.001-08:00

A big CONGRATULATIONS is in order for Mrs. Emily Parker and her sweet little family! Their newest addition, Miss Brittlynn Avery Parker was born yesterday evening at 5:20 pm. She weighed in at 7 lbs 13 oz and is 20 1/2 inches long. It's even more exciting since they chose NOT to find out the sex the 2nd time around either.

Emily is amazing! She has chosen completely natural childbirth for both of her babies and has done so great! I cannot even imagine!! But she has stuck to her guns and didn't let anyone change her mind. She is so strong and super brave!

Thank you God for getting Emily through her natural childbirth a 2nd time so well and for little Brittlynn getting here safely! She is just beautiful! Congratulations again Emily, Zach, and Kye!

North Georgia Pediatric Dentistry

2011-11-10T05:01:00.000-08:00

Logan had his very first trip to the dentist on October 13th. I WAS TOTALLY DREADING IT! I knew it was not going to be a fun ordeal and wasn't looking forward to it at all. Logan has always been a gagger when it comes to teeth brushing. Even since he was an infant if he saw you chewing gum or brushing your teeth he would gag, even kind of threw up a little a couple times. It's ridiculous sounding but also we believe it has something to do with his Chiari. One of the symtoms is an impaired and/or hyperactive gag reflex. So this really explains alot and we had no idea of course til this year.

I was referred to a pediatric dentist by a friend of mine. She works with me and found out about a practice in Braselton by one of the account managers of a doctors office we visit. The guy is her son in law. I work for an mobile ultrasound company. I had no idea where to take him, I've never had to take a child to the dentist before. I did know I wanted to take him to a PEDIATRIC dentist, not just a family dentist. One that specializes in kids only!

So, North Georgia Pediatric Dentisty is what I chose and let me just say, I am so very happy about our choice! Dr. Chris was awesome and even played with Logan. He was pretty cute too! ;) We didn't even start the actual check up/cleaning for at least 15 minutes after we went back! The office is beautiful and so clean. They even have flat screen tv's about the chairs so when the little patients are laid back getting their teeth clean they can watch tv! How cool is that? I myself was having a great time. Logan was so relaxed and had no trouble at all. I was a paparazzi mom and took tons of pictures. I was so proud of Logan. It made me so happy that he had a great visit, no cavities, and had fun! AND NO GAGGING! The next check up is not until April but man, Logan made a new best friend, can we go back sooner? They did say we should feel free to stop in any time to visit. The staff is incredible and soooo friendly! I love N. GA. Pediatric Dentistry and so did Logan! He didn't want to leave! The visit turned out total opposite of how I thought it would.

Logan & Dr. Chris playing Crocodile Dentist

Dr. Chris showing Logan how to work the chair

Hi Five, Dr. Chris gave Logan his own pair of blue gloves!

Funny guy! Little mirror to count teeth on the nose!

Getting his teeth cleaned! Great job Logey!

So relaxed!

How many teeth does Logey have?

Pretty smile! All nice and bright!

Logan's new pal, Dr. Chris!!!

More Pinterest Favs!

2011-10-27T05:07:00.000-07:00

I just noticed this morning that I have over 400 pins on Pinterest! Holy cow! It's so addicting that you just pin away and don't realize how many you are actually putting on the site. It's still fun but I am not as obsessed as I was before. I don't even go on there every day or every two days. Just whenever I happen to think about it or am bored.

Here are a few of my favorite pins I have posted lately! You can find some really good stuff on there. I still love it!

From my "Words" board:

From my "Around the House" board:

From my "Fantastic Photography" board:

From my "Entertaining" board:

This is super cute but I don't know how in the world to make tacos that small! Mini tacos w/ mini tequila shots.

From my "Loot for Logan" board:

When you need some time for yourself to do whatever it is you need/want to do, you can give your kids one of these! They are called busy bags!

From my "Let's Eat" board:

This looks so pretty and I love the ingredients! Tortilla and Black Bean pie!

And last but not least I would love to do this in my closet. I am getting quite a collection of jewelry from Charming Charlie and am quickly running out of room for it all. A few levels of these babies would be perfect. It's just a towel rod with shower hook clipped on and you can hang your necklaces from it. Creative and pretty cheap! Brilliant!

From my "Fun projects" board:

ILaugh!

2011-10-12T17:08:00.001-07:00

Pinterest Project #1

2011-10-11T05:33:00.000-07:00

I just bought my scrapbook paper yesterday at Hobby Lobby for this!

These are not my colors. Not that there is anything wrong with them. Mine is more creams/golds/reddish colors. A few ladies I know have done this. Which is funny. You can tell we are addicted to Pinterest! Some more than other but addicted just the same.

I am NOT that creative, not that talented, and some times just plain LAZY! But I think this is a really cool idea and love the way it looks. It will be hanging in our dining room to take the place of our awesome mirror that fell off the wall and busted the gorgeous frame. It's been bare ever since which has been like 2 years!! LOL!

I am excited to get started. Just need a few more supplies. I will do this! It will look good! I will follow through! If I can do this imagine the possibilities! ;)

There is a simple tutorial to follow here for you non-Pinterest addicts. The project is actually really cheap and not hard at all. I've never done anything like this but am willing to try.

I'll post a picture when I'm done. But will be at least a week since we'll be out of town this weekend. Won't be home to start it. But am excited to try and can't wait to see the finished product!

W.I.L.W.

2011-10-05T10:03:00.001-07:00

Hello Wednesday!!

I have a lot to be thankful for and to love! Even though I may take things for granted sometimes. But here are the things I am Lovin' most this Wednesday!

I have one more day til my birthday! Which I'm loving since Friday night we are headed to Provino's where I get a free birthday dinner/desert! Love me some Italian. I sometimes think I was born into the wrong nationality. I could eat me some Italian food every day! Then Saturday night we are taking Logan to Medieval Times with my friend Jen and her son Josh. Super duper excited and should be a fun way to celebrate!

I am absolutely LOVING that Logan got a great check up today. We took him to his post-op appointment with his neurosurgeon, Dr. Andrew Reisner, this morning. He is pleased with Logan's progress and sees no reason to rush to do another MRI at this point. So we will be scheduling to have his next one in February or March 2012. So thankful that he's done so great after the whole ordeal. You can read about it here.

Loving that we are heading to Statesboro the weekend of October 15th to visit my niece Marissa. She will be 2 on October 8th, the day after MY birthday! She lives in Sarasota but will be visiting a Grandmother so we are making the treck to visit since we don't see her that often. That also means our first road trip in my Traverse, which I also LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!!

That's the LOVE list for this week! Glad it's already Wednesday! One more day til the birthday fun begins!!

W.I.L.W.

2011-09-28T16:43:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful week! Here's what I'm loving this Wonderful Wednesday:

First and foremost I am loving the fact that it's already Wednesday! Well, Wednesday is almost over at this point. So that means tomorrow is Thursday! Yippee!!

I am loving that I am getting a girls night this Saturday night! Four of us are heading to The Basement for hopefully some good laughts! It's an improv show. Ya know how those can go. They can either be really good or REALLy bad! I'm hoping for the first option! Should be a fun Mommy night out.

I am loving the fact that I only have to wait 8 more days until it's my birthday. I am not ashamed to say it, I will be 31! Doesn't really bother me. But I am the most excited about going to dinner at Provino's Friday night for my FREE birthday meal! Garlic butter rolls, here I come!

Then same as last week I am super duper excited that we are going to Medieval Times next Saturday night! We have never been and it will also be Logan's first time. I am excited for us but really looking forward to Logan's reaction. I know he'll love it. He has been talking up a storm about the Knight Show. He has no idea just how awesome it really is going to be and all it entails. The wait is almost over!

And my last LOVING for the day is that I just made some super yummy Quesadillas for dinner tonight. Since I've had my quesadilla maker I've used it a whopping one time. It was time for the quesadilla queen to do her stuff! They consisted of seasoned chicken, sauteed mushrooms, diced green chilies, and new Kraft Mexican Four Cheese Blend with Cream Cheese. Soooo good and melted like Heaven!

Well, til next time! Keep on Lovin' Wednesday!

These are a few of my favorite PINS!

2011-09-23T05:03:00.000-07:00

Pinterest is AWESOME! A bit, well, a lot, time consuming but super fun at the same time! I have created several boards and will most definitely create more over time. Each one having a different theme like Food, Clothing, Decorating, etc. You get the point. I wanted to share just a couple of my favorite pins I have collected so far. It might be a little long but please bear with me. I'll break it down into each category or board. I'll just start with a few boards as not to make this post SUPER long. Soooo fun!! Did I mention I love Pinterest? Here goes:

Around the House:

This is just too cool! They took a hall closet and converted it into a hidden mudroom. Just gorgeous! Again, the colors are awesome! And this keeps things nice and tidy and out of the way. But with something this pretty I'd want to show it off!

I think this is beautiful! So elegant yet so simple. And the colors are just wonderful! It makes me want a little cottage in the country!

Fashionista:

I love GREEN, enough said! GREAT collection. I could totally wear all that!

Jimmy Choo Woven Hobo, Price $ 1293.60. Not that I would EVER spend that much on a purse. Ok, well, I would if I had the money, or maybe not. But I think it's fabulous. Hey, a girl can dream, right?

Let's Eat: (This one gets three, afterall, it's my FAVORITE category).

Orzo Stuffed Bell Peppers. I do make Stuffed Peppers every once in a while but these look waaaaay better than mine. So pretty and much more eye appealing. I'll have to try this recipe some time.

Frozen Fruit Bars, colors are amazing! And I am sure it's tastes just as amazing as it looks! So summery! And a work of art!

Summer Squash Pizza! Who would have thought that squash and pizza go together? Well, this looks darn healthy and delicious! It looks like I am all about color! I would definitely try this one too! Yum!

Coffee Love Affair: (Yes, I LOVE COFFEE)

IF I had a place in my kitchen to put something like this, it would totally be there! Such a neat little idea. Again, looks like something that belongs in a country or french cottage but I love it. You can keep your coffee cup collection displayed but also off the counter.

This is just COOL!

Ok, I won't bore you with any more.......at the moment. If you haven't checked out Pinterest or became a member I highly recommend it. You get tons of ideas for anything and everything! Things you probably wouldn't ever have dreamed of! It's amazing how creative people can be! You can find it all on PINTEREST!

What I'm Lovin' Wednesday!

2011-09-21T10:54:00.000-07:00

Ok, so here goes. Never done this before but see it on every one's blogs each week. I hope I do it right!

Linking up with Jaime for What I'm Loving Wednesday! Here is what I'm loving today!

I am absolutely LOVING the heck out of my new car!!! Never had a NEW one before, it's sooo nice! We (I) got a 2011 Chevy Traverse LTZ. We will be keeping this car for a long time so I wanted to get something I'd be happy with for the long run. It's awesome! http://www.chevrolet.com/traverse/#exterior

I am loving that there is only 15 days left until my birthday. Not usually this excited about it. Afterall it's just another day but we have decided to go here http://www.medievaltimes.com/atlanta.aspx and celebrate. I am the most excited to take Logan to see "The Knight Show" as he calls it!

I am still totally addicted to Pinterest! Quite possibly the most addicting thing I've ever participated in! It's so much fun but such a huge time waster! Thanks to some blog friends and the girls at work for introducing me to yet another complete waste of time! But I love it just the same! ;)

Super loving the fact that I am getting my hair cut and colored today! Something about getting your hair did that makes you just feel so good! Like a new person! Can't wait!

Excited and loving that a blog friend of mine, Rachael Copponex, had her precious sweet baby boy yesterday! Such a blessing from above. Her and her family have been through a rough ordeal and to have welcomed a new bundle of joy will help their hearts heal but never forget!

Loving that another blog friend, Emily Parker, left for Disney World today with her little family! I know they are super excited to take little Kye to the Happiest Place on Earth. While Emily is 7 months pregnant you would never know with all the go-go-going she does! She is one busy lady! But glad that she gets to share such happy memories with her son! One day we'll take Logan too!

Guess that's it for this week! That was totally fun! Can't wait to see what I'll be lovin' next Wednesday!

Pinterest??

2011-09-15T05:38:00.000-07:00

So, this morning I requested my invite to join Pinterest! http://pinterest.com/ I keep reading about it and seeing it on everyone's blogs so I wanted to see what the hype is all about. Still waiting on my invite but I have a feeling once I am in I won't be able to stop! It looks awesome!

The thing is I am not sure exactly what to do. I will need some help from you pinterest experts! ;) I get the general idea but some coaching might be nice. We'll see where it goes when I am in! I am excited to get some ideas on basically anything!!! And I think searching the internet for things I love will be the most fun part!

The girls at work have already joined and have already done some projects! So it must not be too hard! It looks really neat! Again, I am just not sure where to start.

Any help/advice on how to navigate/use it will be helpful! I know it's probably not rocket science but just some tips would be great!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-24T07:16:00.000-07:00

One Month

2011-08-16T10:13:00.000-07:00

It's been a month since I've posted ANYTHING on here! I have lots of pictures to share. Just gotta get motivated. Just haven't found the time to sit and post. But I still have been reading each and every one of my blog friends posts! Love them!!! Maybe I am just so enthralled with everyone else's post, enjoy them all so much, that I forget about mine. Plus everyone else's are waaaaay more exciting and interesting than mine anyway!!!

;o)

Choffy?

2011-07-15T05:54:00.000-07:00

So I saw this product on this http://www.drinkchoffy.com/ website http://www.hungry-girl.com/ and ever since have wanted to try it!!

What would be not to love? It's hot, drinkable chocolate with nutritional benefits! It sounds way too good to be true but I want to get some. The kicker is it is $15 PER BAG!!! I have to say that is pretty steep but hopefully totally worth it? The price we pay for indulgences!

I love chocolate (who doesn't) and I love coffee! Now put the two together and it's a match made in Heaven! I am finding it harder and harder to resist the urge to get out the debit card and order some of this. But I know it's ridiculous. I can do something more worth while with that $15 not to mention I'd also have to pay for shipping. I wish there was a store I could just go to buy it. It would be awesome if a place like Starbucks would put it on their menu. But probably not going to happen! But I would totally be there! And get addicted and still spend $15 week on it! LOL!

One day I might just go for it! Until then I'll just dream in chocolate!

Currently Obsessed

2011-07-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

with this bad boy!!

I just purchased my first Smart Phone last week. I know, I know, a little behind on the times. That's because I had to wait until my contract ran out with AT&T, which I still have another month left, but went ahead and am paying the $65 early termination fee, in order to start with Verizon. I haven't been happy with their service since AT&T bought Cingular. Before, I had no problems at all, but since the invention of The IPhone, I really believe their service has gone down hill. I am glad to be rid of them.

Anywho, I am LOVING my new Motorola Droid 2 Global. A little too much I think! That is the problem with owning a Smart Phone. It's too easy to pick up, play a game, surf the internet, just do whatever you want. And I have never had one so it's worse! Words with Friends is a favorite. But I absolutely refuse to get on the Angry Birds train! I know better! And think I have enough to occupy my time with playing Words with Friends. On the other hand, my other half, is crazy about that one. He can have it!

It's silly to be materialistic and I am SO not but it's just fun to have something like this. Not to mention it can actually come in quite handy! Love how many free apps they have available but you have to deal with the advertisements. Oh well. Take it or leave it, right?

Picking up my Otter Box from Walmart tonite! Gotta protect my investment!! Woohoo!!! I'm lovin' it! Hey, who needs an Iphone? Not I!

A Piece of My Heart......

2011-06-30T08:33:00.000-07:00

is missing!!!

Logan went to spend the night with his Grandma & Granddaddy Tuesday night and we haven't seen him since. They wanted him to spend the night last night as well. I am glad they are getting to spend time together, spoil him, enjoy him but I am starting to get a little sad.

He's never been away from us more than an overnite/day stay. And it's true that he's only 10-15 minutes away but I miss him, tremendously. I don't know what I would do at this point being away for him for a week!

I am starting to get anxious to see his littel face, his big smile, and feel his arms around me in a big bear hug. I can't wait for work to be over today so I can get my little boy back!

Being away from your child for any extended period of time reminds you just how much you love them, how much a part of your life they really are, and what life was like before having kids.

It's been very quiet which has been nice. And I could easily get some things done without constant interruption. But I do miss the laughter, the constant "Mommy, mommy, mommy" and his cute, quirky personality! He fills our hearts with joy each and every day. Kids are not easy and can get on your nerves quite regularly but all in all they are wondeful little creatures that we wouldn't trade for anything in the world!

My Favs!!!

2011-06-28T05:38:00.001-07:00

Our photo shoot with Ellis Avery Photography......

2011-06-24T05:05:00.000-07:00

Well, almost!!! We haven't gotten the cd of the pictures in the mail yet but should today! I am so excited to see them! The lady who took them and the owner of Ellis Avery Photography is the cousin of a girl I work with. She is so fun and does great work! She is also so good with the kids. I am sure it helps that she has 2 rugrats of her own.

I was anticipating the arrival of the cd all day yesterday. She said she mailed them out on Wednesday. She doesn't live far at all so I thought for sure I'd get it yesterday. I could not wait to get home and check the mail. Justin got home before me so he had gotten the mail. The first thing I asked when I got in was "Have you seen the pictures?" His response, "Nope, we didn't get them." Talk about a major disappointment. Hmmm....hope they didn't get lost.

So again today I will be waiting for quittin' time to rush home and check! Waiting is so hard sometimes! And I will admit I am probably one of the world's worst at patience! I pretty much don't have any!

So next post will be our photo shoot! Cannot wait!!

www.ellisaveryphotography.com

What a little doll!

2011-06-22T05:23:00.001-07:00

My niece Marissa will be 2 in October. I haven't gotten to see her in almost a year. She lives with her mom in Sarasota, Florida. It's not that easy to get down there. It's a 10 hour drive from Atlanta. My brother got to go down for Father's Day to see her. He was so happy to see her and by the looks of it she was happy to see him. Her personality has gotten a lot cuter. It's great to see them interact together! I wish we all could see her more but that's the way things are right now. Hopefully in the future we'll see a lot more of her. I sure hope so! What a little doll!

Thankful Thursday!

2011-06-02T05:38:00.000-07:00

I am just so very thankful for this silly, sweet, lovable little boy! I love him with all my heart and more than anything else in this world!!! I dont' know what I'd do without him. I am so glad God decided to put him in my life. And even with all he's been through he is such a trooper and keeps on smiling! Such an amazing spirit! We love you Logan!

Wordless Wednesday!

2011-05-25T17:53:00.001-07:00

Banana Waffle Burrito

2011-05-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

This look heavenly and actually not too bad!

http://www.bestweekever.tv/2011-05-20/banana-waffle-burritos-want/

200th post & Caring Bridge

2011-05-09T07:11:00.001-07:00

This is not what I expected my 200th blog post to be about. But it is and God has a plan! We have to trust in the Lord and keep the faith. I will try to continue to be positive and remember that Logan is in good hands! Not only with the amazing surgeon that will be doing Logan's surgery but also our wonderful maker, God, as well!

I created a CaringBridge page for Logan today. It's going to be a great way for everyone to stay updated on what's going on as we embark on this journey. We already have had so many prayers and uplifting comments. Please feel free to view and comment as you see fit or desire. And unlike this blog I plan to stay on top of it. I know everyone has a lot of questions and concerns and we are right there with you all. So not only will it be informative but also a way for me to destress and just put down my/our feelings.

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/loganharner

I just want to end by saving I love my little boy more than anything in this world. Yes I love my family and husband and friends. But a Mother's love is like none other. He is my life and my world. He is such a tough little cookie. I pray that he will pull through this as has so many other children with his condition has.

Chiari Malformation

2011-05-05T15:06:00.001-07:00

Well, we learned a new medical term today. Unfortunately I wasn't quite prepared for what we heard. I knew with Logan having his MRI today because of the sleep apnea that they would more than likely find something. But I guess I just forced myself to not think that far ahead?

Logan has been diagnosed with Chiari Malformation. The best description we have found was from WedMd. This is the most to the point way of putting it. Arnold-Chiari Malformation:

Arnold-Chiari malformation is a rare malformation of the brain that is sometimes, but not always, apparent at birth. It is characterized by abnormalities in the area where the brain and spinal cord meet that cause part of the cerebellum to protrude through the bottom of the skull (foramen magnum) into the spinal canal. This interferes with the flow of cerebral spinal fluid to and from the brain, leading to accumulation of cerebral spinal fluid in the empty spaces of the spine and brain. The portion of the cerebellum that protrudes into the spinal canal can become elongated and is called the "cerebellar tonsils" because it resembles the tonsils. There are four types of Chiari malformation. Depending on the type, the impact on the affected individual may range from mild to severe.

This is not something that we wanted to hear but we are glad we have a for sure diagnosis. We are thankful that he has not had any major symptoms or episodes. Things could be better but things could be a lot worse. We have an appointment next week with another neurosurgeon for a 2nd opinion and then Wednesday we are meeting with the neurosurgeon we met with today to discuss anything and to also schedule Logan's surgery. He will be having brain surgery which technically seems more like spinal surgery. It involves part of the brain but the part that they will be going into is really the spine.

This is basically what it looks like. Logan's case is pretty severe and the "cerebellar tonsils" have exteneded down pretty far. Much worse than this picture.

We are very nervous and very scared. We have a lot of questions which is normal. We were told that there is a 95% success rate and complications like bleeding and needing a blood tranfusion, infection, and paralysis are less than a 1% chance. The one good thing I can say is that we also have a pretty good list of references of parents that have gone through the surgery with their child and will be contacting one of them for support. We hope to get a lot more answers, prognosis knowledge, and just overall information on what is to come and what we can expect.

We know that things happen for a reason. We will have to stay positive and know that God is on our side. We will try to keep the faith and not let negative thoughts fill our minds and hearts through this difficult time. Please keep our families in your thoughts and prayers!

Wordless Wednesday!

2011-05-04T06:40:00.001-07:00

7 years!!

2011-05-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's been 7 years since the hubs and I said "I do!" (April 24) A lot has happened in the 7 years we've been married. We've bought a house, had a kid, been through several jobs each. It's been a crazy ride at times but overall we can't complain. We've been blessed for sure. Granted, we may not have the fanciest house, the most money, or the fastest/best cars out there but who needs all those things to be happy??

12 year time line:

August 1999-First met
October 1999-Officially a couple
December 24, 2002-Engaged
April 24, 2004-Married
January 2006-Bought our first house, still there.
April 2007-Pregnant with Logan
November 28,2007-Welcomed Logan to the world, 5 1/2 weeks early!

We officially met in August of 1999. Justin and I had actually attended Central Gwinnett all 4 years of high school. We even had some of the same classes. We had never spoken an actual word to one another in those 4 years. We did exchange some friendly waves in the hall way once or twice. Just out of recognition and politeness but that's it. The first day of college we ended up with the same break time between classes. We were sitting at the same table and hit it off immediately! Even though we didn't know each other I didn't really feel any awkwardness when talking to him. We didn't seem to be running out of things to talk about. So this went on for about a week or 2. Eventually I went by Long John Silver's where he worked at the time. I was going to ask him if he wanted to go to dinner sometime. He wasn't there so I started seeming like a stalker and looked up his phone # in the phone book. This is still when people actually used phone books!

I called him and we ended up talking for a bit. All along I was really nervous and the thought was going through my head that he was thinking I was totally crazy. He has said he didn't think anything of it. We made a date to go to El Rodeo in Lawrenceville. Good times! All went well and we continued to hang out. Our next big "date" was the Gwinnett County Fair. We first held hands there and shared a good nite hug after having milk shakes at Steak N Shake. Our first kiss was October 22, 1999 and we've been together ever since. No break ups, no separations, nothing. For almost 12 years we have spend pretty much every day together.

Being married is not always easy. There are a lot of tough moments. When you live with someone and are always with them they can tend to get on your nerves. It's hard to get any time alone when you need it. But luckily we're both respectful of that. I just thank God each and every day that I have a husband who loves me for me. I am not always the easiest person to live with and I know this. At least I admit it. But he's been there through thick and thin and hope he will be for a long time to come.

No matter what I love him too even when it doesn't seem like it! That is what being married is all about!

Hoppy Easter!!!

2011-04-21T06:48:00.000-07:00

What a difference a year can make!!!

Too healthy for Emily, just perfect for Danielle! ;)

2011-04-08T17:25:00.000-07:00

Lemon Zucchini Blueberry Muffins (I just had 2, it's ok, they are healthy)

I have been wanting to try something new, different, and healthy for Logan to try. He doesn't really eat veggies and I can only get him to eat applesauce, mandarin oranges (not so much anymore), and cereal bars in the way of fruit. But boy does the little munchkin love muffins! So, I headed over to google and searched for healthy muffin ideas. I came across this blog and this recipe. I tried them tonite. Yum! I love them. Granted, they aren't sweet like normal, fattening, sugary muffins but are still yummy!

I will be making these again whether he likes them or not! The blueberries are whole b/c they are fresh and super huge! I actually used frozen blueberries which were fresh at one time. Ha! I couldn't find them at Kroger last night. I guess EVERYONE had the same idea as me! :)

Anyway, here is the delish recipe!

http://mayamade.blogspot.com/2008/07/lemon-zucchini-berry-muffins.html

I just gained 10 pounds.....

2011-03-29T05:05:00.000-07:00

Just by looking at this! Whaaaat?

Not that I think anyone I know will make these. Well, except maybe Emily Parker,
(href="http://emilyandzachparker.blogspot.com/">http://emilyandzachparker.blogspot.com/), but here is the recipe! For you brave souls!

Oreo Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies
Makes 24 gigantic cookies
Prep: 25 minutes
Cook: 13 minutes

Ingredients
• 1 cup (2 sticks) softened butter
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 3 1/2 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 package Double Stuff Oreo cookies

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a large bowl, cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together with a mixer until well combined. Beat in eggs and vanilla.

In medium bowl mix the flour, salt, and baking soda. Slowly add to wet ingredients along with chocolate chips until just combined.

With a cookie scoop, form balls with the dough.

Place one ball on top of an Oreo cookie, and another ball on the bottom. Seal edges together by pressing and cupping in hand until Oreo cookie is fully enclosed with dough.

Place onto parchment or silpat lined baking sheets and bake cookies for approximately 13 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to cooling rack.

Charlotte is 1!

2011-03-15T05:48:00.001-07:00

This past Saturday we went to a one year old birthday party. This little girl has got to the one of the cutest little ones I've seen. She's so dainty and just has the sweetest face! The girls had been planning her party and working on all the things they made for at least a month. They used www.thepartydress.net/. It has pages and pages of SUPER CUTE ideas. I am sure it was a lot of work but everything looked great! It was just the right amount of elegance without being too much. I love what they did. We all had a great time, the food was good, and the cake was fantastic!

There was of course a bouncy house. What party is complete without one these days. The kids pretty much bounced the whole time with the exception of cake eating! They are a great idea but can be very expensive and you really have to have an ideal yard for it. It wouldn't work at all in our yard. Plus, Logan's birthday is November 28th so you never know what kind of weather you're going to get. So, a bounce house is out of the question for Logan.

We have had at least one birthday party per weekend since February. We have one the next 3 weekends as well. February through April is PARTY CENTRAL in our house. AKA, we are broke! :) But it's a lot of fun. We really do need a weekend where we have nothing to do but there is not one of those in sight for a while.

Happy Birthday little Miss Charlotte!

Oh, there you are!

2011-02-28T09:22:00.000-08:00

HA! Made ya look! Warning: This will not be funny, exciting, or entertaining in any way, shape, or form. Read at your own risk!

Dear Blog,

I haven't really forgotten about you. I just haven't had the time, energy, or motivation to update you. To be honest I've been downright lazy about it! Our lives have been anything but uneventful. I would say it's been down right ridiculous. I just haven't had the desire to sit down and add pictures, type, and try to be witty while telling stories.

So, for now, this is all I got! Till next time! Sayonara!

Thankful Thursday!

2011-02-10T05:27:00.000-08:00

I am just so incredibly thankful and blessed by this little guy! I love him more and more every day!

Park!

2011-02-02T05:15:00.000-08:00

The weather this past weekend was INCREDIBLE! Too nice to stay inside. So, we headed to the park on Sunday with some friends. I have a lot more pictures too add but these are a few of my favs! I love capturing kids and love kid closeups! Awesome!

The boys had a great time! We rode bikes, played on the playground, played kickball, football, and frisbee. We also did bubbles! Fun times! I love that they got to run off some energy! I am glad we have such a great group to hang with. It makes life fun and interesting! There is always something to do and people to do things with.

So glad Logan is back to his old self. He is doing great! Eating like a pig and running around like crazy! Loving life!

Hugs and Kisses

2011-01-20T12:12:00.000-08:00

This is all I want from my little boy right now. I know he's in great hands and is at the best place he could be. Doesn't make it any easier seeing him lying in the ICU unit in the huge bed that makes him look so tiny. Doesn't help that he has a breathing tube down his throat and tons of iv's and tubes and machines all around him. Doesn't help that I know I won't be able to hold him for at least 2 more days. Doesn't help that there is nothing I can really do for him.

I've held it together amazingly well with only one real breakdown so far. He hasn't had any major set backs and his state hasn't declined any. I am just keeping faith and hope and relying on the awesome doctors and nurses here to take complete care of him. They have done an amazing job so far! And the food ain't half bad either. In fact, the food here at Scottish Rite rocks!!!

Please continue to pray for Logan and our families. We appreciate all the love and support we've been shown. We know that we are truly loved and that everyone is praying for him.

Wordless Wednesday (Boots!)

2011-01-05T08:07:00.000-08:00

Wordless Wednesday!

2010-12-29T13:50:00.000-08:00

Silent Night

2010-12-24T19:35:00.001-08:00

Tonight we enjoyed our first Christmas Eve service at CrossPointe Church! Can I just say "Wow". The orchestra was AMAZING, the singing was INCREDIBLE, the stage was GORGEOUS, and the house was PACKED! We chose to let Logan stay in "big" church with us which is a first and probably last for a while. We had to constantly tell him to stop talking or stop talking so loud I should say. He was all over the place too. But overall I guess he wasn't really that bad. It was probably bothering me more than it bothered others. I guess b/c it is my kid and I felt like he was annoying the heck out of everyone. For a 3 year old he did pretty good!

Everyone had a piece of Dove chocolate when we sat down on their chairs. I thought it was just a nice gesture. Afterall, I love me some dark chocolate! I know it's not a taste that everyone enjoys though. More for me! Come to find out and now it makes sense and was explained to us as well. The title of the service was Bittersweet Symphony: A Christmas Story. Dr. Merritt went through the true meaning of Christmas and how everyone keeps all the sugar that is Christmas and takes out the salt, the real things and the real reason for it all. And how it definitely is Bittersweet, just like dark chocolate, how this little baby was born all those years ago just so he could/would die. It's bitter and sweet at the same time, the birth and death of Jesus Christ. I thought it was pretty incredible.

The service ended with the traditional candle lit Silent Night. Logan had been playing with the little candles since they were handed to us on the way in. He had no idea what they would be used for. At one point he tried to keep getting me to take a bite of one. It seems he thought it was food? Weird. At the end he was excited to be able to hold his own LIT candle. I was terrified he was going to catch one of us or himself on fire. He had quite a bit of assistance from Daddy for good reason. But it was so sweet to see him holding it up and singing the song as best he could.

We look forward to many more years to come at Crosspointe Church! Especially the Christmas service.

Wordless Wednesday (Sleep Study)

2010-12-22T05:59:00.000-08:00

Wordless Wednesday (Looking So Grown Up)

2010-12-15T06:15:00.001-08:00

The Giving Tree

2010-12-13T05:51:00.001-08:00

This year we started attending a new church. Well, the church isn't new, but it's new to us. We took a year off of church after leaving our old church for reasons unknown. Our previous church is extremely small as far as atendees go. There is no children's church, no Sunday School or Bible study. There was just nothing there for us or our family anymore. We just didn't have the motivation to start looking for a new place of worship.

In May of this year we really started thinking about it and knew it was time to get serious. Afterall, Logan was getting to the age where he really understood things and we didn't want him to miss out on learning about God. I know as parents it is ultimately our responsibility to make sure he does learn about God and creation but Sunday School definitely helps in the process. They think of things that we might not and the arts and crafts are fun!

We love our church. It's 100% amazing! It's big but not so big that you feel lost or overwhelmed. We already felt comfortable there after our first visit. And we quickly started to feel like family. Especially since we'd joined a Life Group (Sunday School/Bible Study).

This year we got to be part of the Giving Tree. You pick a less fortunate family off the tree at the church. There is an age and sex and list of things the child wants/needs/the parents would like for them to have. You purchase a gift(s) for the child. The church then delivers the gifts to the family before Christmas. Yesterday was distribution day at www.crosspointechurch.com. In our worship guide was a card to fill out if you wanted to help deliver. Well, God put it on my heart to fill the card out, select a bag of gifts to take, and then deliver it. I am in the Christmas spirit and wanted to help make someone's holiday a little brighter.

The bag we chose contained 2 gifts. It was going to a family with 2 little boys. I was pretty nervous because we'd never really done anything like this. I didn't want to screw it up or make a fool of myself. Turns out the family was GREAT! The mother lost her job about a year and a half ago. Her full time job has been looking for a job over this past year and a half. All the while raising 2 young boys and a 20 year old daughter. We talked and laughed with them for a little over an hour and a half. She even invited us to stay for dinner which we politely declined. We didn't want to impose on them. I feel like God put her and that family in our lives for a reason.

They were such nice people and she was willing to share her story with complete strangers. When we left we felt like we had known them forever! It was so nice visiting with them. My heart felt so much fuller and richer after we left. We had not started out the day with this planned at all. We were going to go home after church, take a long nap, and then hit the mall. We didn't make it to the mall until after 6:00 pm. I don't mind at all. Meeting this family was way more important and a much beter use of our time. I am so glad that we decided to help with the Giving Tree. It gave us a chance to really be be and show our Christianlike spirits, make someones day a little brighter, and also really experience the true meaning of Christmas.

I am so thankful for Crosspointe. Dr. Merritt (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Merritt) is an amazing preacher and we are so glad we found this church. Yes, he has his own Wikipedia page. :) We know we will continue in our spiritual growth and become more and more involved in the church for years to come!

Wordless Wednesday-Kiddie Karaoke

2010-12-08T08:01:00.000-08:00

3 Year Checkup

2010-12-07T05:19:00.000-08:00

I first off must say we LOVE our Pediatricians office! They are wonderful! They are very thorough, address any issues we have as if it's the most important thing ever, and they are just all around great folks. In case you're wondering it's http://www.palonline.net/. Love them!!! Not to mention they have been voted Best of Gwinnett for the last 6 years, SCORE!

Logan started out life and went through his 2nd year at a different pediatricians office. We decided to take him to the pediatrician I had when I was a kid. We thought it would be great since we'd been there and kind of knew them. And then we wouldn't have to spend hours and hours going from office to office to find one we liked. Now I wish we had. But at least we're where we are totally comfortable and feel that Logan is getting the best care possible.

Friday December 3rd Justin took Logan in for his 3 year checkup. I wanted to go but decided as long as I made a list of things I wanted addressed that Justin could ask and relay the results to me afterward. I really didn't think I needed to miss work. Turns out it worked out fine. I do miss the interaction with the doctors but what can I do?

Logan is 36 inches exactly! He's catching up to me rather quickly! He only weighs right under 25 pounds though. The doctor seemed a little concerned about his weight but that will come in a different post! I promise he does eat. He doesn't know the meaning of the word walk so maybe that has a little something to do with it?

I had a few things on the list that I definitely wanted addressed. I noticed a while back that when you look at Logan from behind with just his pull up on that his knees go inward. I guess the term for it is Knock-Kneed? The doctor took a look and said yes he is. And that he will hopefully grow out of it. I don't know what causes it. He said it wasn't something to totally freak out about but definitely to keep an eye on it.

He mentioned something a little weird. And I have never even noticed this. That sounds really bad but I guess it's just one of those things. He said Logan's pinky fingers were curved a little bit. It was news to me and I just kept trying to picture them all day. Once we got home from school the first thing I did was examine the pinkys. Sure enough they've got a definite curve to them. It's not grotesque or anything. But just strange and I can't believe I've never noticed. He gave us the name of a specialist at Scottish Rite to see to have it checked out. He said it's likely nothing to worry about but we should have it looked at. He didn't give any specifics but said it could be a genetic disorder? Great, that's all we need. Something else to worry about with his health.

Potty training is still on going. Not much progress in that department. We've tried the treasure box and now we're bribing him with the M&M's. It's still not a priority in his mind. I really think he needs to move up to the next class where EVERY child in there is potty training or is completely potty trained. He's the oldest in his class now and just needs to be with kids his own age and at his level. Plus I think he's getting bored in there. I will have to talk to the directors to see about moving him up soon.

Other than that he looks good. He does have asthma and allergies, which he sees an Asthma/Allergy specialist for. He had his sleep study on his birthday, November 28th, and we got the results yesterday. That will be my next post. There is always a lot going on with him. We do the best we can and take whatever measures we have to take to ensure he gets the care and treatments he needs. I'm just ready for the poor little guy to catch a break! But he's such a trooper!

McD's!

2010-11-29T09:56:00.000-08:00

This was the 2nd year in a row that we've had Logan's birthday party at McDonald's. I was trying to figure out what to do last year. For his first birthday party we had everyone and their mama's at our house. A whopping 60 people. If you've ever been to our house you know that was a miracle and we could hardly breathe. Crazy to say everyone had a seat to sit in. I remember having one of my birthday parties at McDonald's one year, about 28 years ago! Well, I've seen the pictures, not sure if I quite remember or not.

I did some research and called the McDonald's by the Mall of GA. It's got a huge playground and eating area. I was keeping my fingers crossed that they still did parties and was hoping it didn't cost an arm a leg. They totally do parties and it's totally CHEAP! I'm talking $65 for 10 kids cheap which includes Happy Meals for the kids, Cake/Ice Cream, goodie bags, and of course plenty of playground time!!! You can't beat it! You don't have to kill yourself cleaning your house for a week before and after, you don't have to worry about messing up the carpet, baking, cooking, anything! It's Heaven!

Logan and his friends loved it last year so we wanted to do a repeat and have a no brainer party again this year! It's great! The kids get to eat, play, and run around. You can't beat it! Now we've got to think of something else to do for next year's birthday.

Uncle D being his usual silly self!

Our Family

Logan and Landon saying HI!

The Hale's

Zayne

Landon

Noah and his nuggets!

Nathan

Pretty Ellie!

Little Lizzy!

Logan and his wife Ava!

That boy loves his "chocolate milk with white milk"

Happy Birthday!

Chuggin' MY sweet tea!

Love you Logey!

3 Years Old!!!

2010-11-28T07:11:00.000-08:00

Wow, how time flies!! Today is Logan's 3rd birthday! Seems like yesterday my water broke (5 1/2 weeks early), I suffered through horrible contractions all night long, finally got an epidural at about 8 cm, pushed for an hour and a half and then had my little baby boy!!! Wednesday November 28th, 2007, 12:36 pm, 4 lbs 14 oz., 20 1/2 inches. That monkey was all arms and legs! Just like his daddy and grandma!

He has grown so much over the last 3 years! He talks non stop and you can hold great conversations with him! He is funny, silly, smart, mischevious at times, loves his mommy, is very playful, just an all around good ole' American boy!

He is a handful at times, I won't lie, but what kid isn't? He makes us smile, laugh, and enjoy life daily! We love you so much Logan Riley Harner!!! Happy 3rd Birthday, little man!

Wordless Wednesday: Makes me Smile!!!

2010-11-24T08:02:00.000-08:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-17T10:57:00.001-08:00

Justin is 30!

2010-11-13T10:47:00.000-08:00

My hubby turned 30 on November 1st. We went to Atlanta and had dinner with his grandparents the Saturday before Halloween. We enjoyed Shane's Rib Shack! Yum!

The next Saturday night, November 6th, I took him to dinner. There is a new restaurant in the Avenues in Lawrenceville called Gary's Bistro. I didn't tell him where we were going. I also didn't tell him who all was coming. He was expecting it to just be us. I decided to have a surprise birthday dinner. I invited all our close friends and family. The food was awesome, the company was great, too bad the server wasn't very friendly or efficient. But it didn't ruin the night. We all had a great time! Katt and Stephen gave Justin a $25 gift card to the restaurant when they got there. So it ended up being a pretty cheap night epecially for what we got.

We started with the amazing calamari that I'd been eyeing since I read about the place. Loved it! It was season with lemon salt, fried capers, and came with a lemon garlic aiolo! The best! I ordered the scallops that came with asparagus risotto and fried spinach. Again, the bomb! The scallops were cooked just right! Justin ordered the filet that came with cheese grits, yum! You can't go wrong with cheese grits!! We would have had dessert but I think everyone was ready to go and plus the lady never even asked us. So I was happy to go somewhere else. Overall, it was a great time!

www.garysbistro.com.....loved the food! Will definitely go back some time!

Wordless Wednesday!

2010-11-10T15:26:00.001-08:00

My niece, Marissa! What a beauty!

The Gibson Gang

2010-11-07T18:45:00.000-08:00

Saturday we headed to Vines Botanical Gardens again. This time to shoot pictures of another family. They are friends of friends and liked the ones I'd done for The Roberson's. So they asked me to do theirs. Of course I said yes. This one was a little different, well, a lot different. Dana and Jeremy have 3 boys. Not one sweet, most of the time sweet, little girl! So it was quite a challenge but still fun! Each boy has a totally different look and personality. They all cracked me up in some way or another. It was pretty chilly but I guess we got numb to the cold after a while. But we didn't leave without red and some runny noses.

All in all it went well. There are always shots I think I could do better at. I need to work on not cutting heads off. I continue to do that and need to focus more. But Dana liked them and wasn't disappointed. Glad we had such a great sunny day to work with.

Just Horsin' Around

2010-11-04T17:04:00.000-07:00

Ahhh! Halloween! Probably a favorite holiday of most kids that are old enough to "get it". Understandable considering the "holiday" is all about nothing but candy! YUM, chocolate! I think it's the most perfect food. If I could eat nothing but chocolate, survive, not get sick, and not gain 5,000 pounds I would eat it 24/7!

Logan almost missed his chance to go Trick or Treating this year. From Saturday October 23rd through Tuesday November 2nd he was impossible. No matter what we said or did he just screamed NO and I DON'T WANT TO and just pure ugliness. We call it his Poltergeist voice cuz he sounds totally possessed. It's funny but not b/c it makes you just so mad. He just got filled with hatefullness, anger, and just violence for that week. It was horrible and I cried several times. I felt life was starting to spin out of control and didn't seem to be getting better, just worse!!!

Well after a week of this meanness we had to do something. I didn't like where all that was going. I was losing my sweet little boy. And it scared the heck out of me. All I could think of was Oh no, what's it gonna be like when he's 12, 13, 14 and it's gone on like this. He will hate us, resent us, and vice versa and one night he'll just decide to do something horrible and unthinkable to us. I know that it a little far fetched but I couldn't help it.

Now, I digress! Sorry!

After the costume was put away, constantly fighting him to eat dinner, and threat after threat of no trick or treating I had a change of heart. We ended up staying out for about an hour and a half. That is a long time for a 2 year old but Logan just kept saying "Mommy, I want more candy" So we kept going looking for those houses with their porch lights on. Even though he was over it, wanted to be carried, was tired "for walking" we trudged on in search of more candy. He was the cutest little horse I've ever seen! He loved his costume and so did we. It's the first costume we tried on, it was $10 at Kid to Kid www.kidtokid.com and just fit him to a T! After he saw that he didn't even want to look at any more costumes which made us pretty happy too!

Glad I decided to take him out trick or treating. I think I would have regretted it later, felt guilty, and just plain mean! I also got some cute photos of my little foal! :)

Wordless Wednesday: 100% Attittude

2010-10-27T06:28:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday: Two Peas in a Pod

2010-10-20T05:31:00.000-07:00

Corn Dawgs!!!

2010-10-19T06:12:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we had planned to take Logan to Burt's Pumpkin Farm in Dawsonville with our friend Jen and her son Josh. It's a well known place in these parts. They've got a great hayride, lots and lots of pumpkins, and tons of good food to eat. I kept getting told that you HAVE to get there early or you won't be able to do anything. I also saw on their site that there really isn't much to do there. So..........

I saw on a fellow bloggers site that they took their daughter to a place in Loganville called Corn Dawgs.

(http://growingfordfamily.blogspot.com/)

I saw her pictures and looked at their site and immediately changed my mind on Burt's. This Corn Dawg's place looked amazing, fun, and not boring at all. Plus, it was alot closer to the house.

We headed to Loganville Saturday morning around 9:15 and arrived at 10. We were ready for some fun and excitement. I think I was more excited than Logan! The second we pulled up I was ready to get out and start exploring. Just the atmosphere when you first pull in is exciting!

We had a blast! I felt like a total kid again! There was tons to do, no long lines, and even some Fried Oreos! I highly recommend this place to anyone with kids. The tickets are $12 to get in but includes a ton of stuff. Luckily Logan was FREE. (2 and under) We spent 3 1/2 hours out there! It was totally worth it. I am so glad that we didn't go to Burt's. My neighbor told me they were turning people away on Saturday b/c it was so crowded. I do know they have some awesome pumpkin bread but I can get that anywhere. We would have spent more time driving in the car to and from Burt's than we actually spent there. I was NOT disappointed in any way!

I think our favorites were the slides (we spent 30-45 minutes on them), the Giant Corn Box, and the playgrounds!

Check this place out! www.corndawgs.com

Chattanooga

2010-10-14T05:29:00.000-07:00

We had a great trip to Chattanooga for my birthday! The 3 days were jam packed but we enjoyed every minute of it. I'll post more pictures soon but I wanted to just do a post with "family" pictures. I am ALWAYS the one behind the camera. I hate having to make sure I look ok or if my hair is messed up or am I getting my good side. I don't want to miss any good shots. And Justin doesn't always get the ones I want so I'd rather just do it myself. But I wanted to make sure and get out from behind the camera this time and really get in the pictures with my boys. Glad I did!

Wordless Wednesday! (Logan & Diva Dog)

2010-10-12T18:49:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-29T05:21:00.000-07:00

9 days!!!

2010-09-28T05:16:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's hard to think that in 9 days I'll be 30 years old! In a way I still feel so young and like a child. Other days I can't believe I'm married and have been for almost 7 years and have an almost 3 year old. It's crazy how fast the time flies the older you get. When you are younger you always want to be older and vice versa. It's funny how the mind works! I myself could definitely be happy being 25 or 26 for a while longer. But unfortunately that is not going to happen.

We have a little family get away planned for next week. We will be spending 3 days in Chattanooga, TN. It's my 30th birthday and I wanted to do something fun. We've been wanting to take little man there for quite some time now. And this seemed like the perfect opportunity. It's not going to be scorching hot and it won't be incredibly cold. In fact, the weather is supposed to be in the mid 70's, HEAVEN! I am hoping the trip will help me forget about how old I am, at least for those 3 days. We have a whole list of fun filled activities we'll be doing. And I can't wait to spend some quality family time together.

I am also excited that I'll get lots of new pictures while there. It's fun to have a change of scenery. Logan is going to love the aquarium. I personally think the GA Aquarium is lame and so not worth the $. The Tennessee Aquarium is the best one I've been to followed by the Charleston Aquarium. The one in Gatlinburg is in 3rd place. I just dont' think our aquarium is all it was hyped up to be, not at all. So I am excited that Logan will get to see everything there. Instead of spending an hour at the GA Aquarium for an unGodly amount of money we'll get to spend closer to 3 hours enjoying the one in TN. It's way more worth the money and drive.

I am counting down the days til our little trip! Excited about the trip but not so much about turning 30!

Happy Fall Ya'll

2010-09-23T06:47:00.000-07:00

Today officially marks the first day of fall for 2010! So excited! I think we are all ready for some cooler temperatures, pretty colored leaves, and some Punkin' Pie. This summer has been incredibly HOT to say the least. Every day has been in the 90's! Usually our summers consist of cooler days here and there. This year has been a scorcher. The thermometer has risen above 90 a lot more often than not.

I am ready to make my Pumpkin Gingerbread Trife, throw on a light jacket in the mornings, go on Fall walks and not sweat to death, take Logan to the punkin' patch, and just enjoy every minute before the hard core cold temperatures hit.

With this said, "Happy Fall, Ya'll!"

Wordless Wednesday!!

2010-09-22T05:26:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday!

2010-09-15T17:41:00.000-07:00

Play Ball!

2010-09-06T18:04:00.000-07:00

Awesome! That's all I can say. The weather in Georgia this weekend rocked! We loved every minute of it. The cool mornings, the nice breezes, and the SUN! Today is was a little warmer but not unbearably hot. We promised Logan we'd take him to the park today and play baseball. He's been itching to play. We try to get him to play in the backyard. He's fine til he hears a dog start barking then it's all over. Poor thing. It's ridiculous really!

So we spent about 2 hours at the park playing baseball on the real field, feeding the ducks, kicking the ball, and playing on the playground. And then lunch at Steak and Shake! I'd say it made for a wonderful day! Which also started with some YUMMY cinnamon rolls with butter cream icing! Granted, I only had one, but it was delish!

I took lots of pictures and had fun playing paparazzi for Logan and Daddy! The boys are so cute! Justin is just EATING IT UP! He has been waiting for this and Logan seems to love the game just as much as Justin. We're excited to hopefully get Logan into tball in the spring. I think our schedule is busy now....pfft! I don't know what busy is yet!

We loved our day!

Yeah for Wordless Wednesday!!

2010-08-25T12:12:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-25T12:10:00.000-07:00

Shogun Fun!

2010-08-19T11:09:00.001-07:00

Today is my dad's 59th birthday! Happy Birthday to you, Dad! He graciously invited us to dinner at Shogun (http://www.shogunatl.com/) last night. I say graciously b/c even though it was his birthday celebration he paid for the entire check. Thank you so much!

It was me, mom, Derek (my bro), Justin, Logan and my awesome niece Marissa. We all call her Momo. So we have Lolo for Logan and then Momo! How cute, they have matching names! :)

The food and company was good! Logan got scared when the table, I mean, grill got lit on fire. He definitely wasn't expecting it and kept asking me "They not gonna do it again, Mommy?" He was seriously terrified, poor thing! We kept trying to make it fun and a game to keep his mind off of it. As you'll see later he was on the edge of his seat the rest of the time.

It's always nice to spend time with family. Especially when good food is involved. I bought a yummy Chocolate Raspberry Cake w/Cream Cheese icing at Publix to take. I would have made one but yeah not so much time. I have a picture somewhere but just haven't gotten it yet. And that was his "present" since he wont' let us pay for dinner and he basically has all he needs. And what he doesn't have he goes and gets when he wants. Talk about a hard person to shop for!

Everyone had a great time! We might be back for my birthday in October!

Too much excitement!

Birthday kisses for Pop!

Say cheese!

Me & Hubby

Momo & Nana

Nana & Pop

Our brown-eyed girl!!

Mom & Dad

Logan having a "nail biting" good time!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-18T08:06:00.000-07:00

Just Plain Adorable!!

2010-08-12T20:51:00.001-07:00

Wordless Wednesday (A little blurry)

2010-08-11T05:45:00.001-07:00

Sweet Marissa!

2010-08-06T10:01:00.000-07:00

The countdown is ON! My niece will be here visiting next weekend! I absolutely CANNOT wait to see her sweet smililng face!

She was born October 8, 2009. We got to see her for a week the week before Thanksgiving last year. That is the last time I've seen her in person. And I am itching so bad! I am ready to play with her, love on her, spoil her rotten!

My brother moved back home from Florida a couple weekends ago. It was hard for him to leave his baby girl and still don't know if it was the right thing to do. But he was stuck in a dead end relationship and it was just a bad situation. He is home now living with Mommy and Daddy.

The plan is that Marissa will visit up here for 2 weeks every other month! I am ecstatic! She will have so much attention and love surrounding her here it's crazy! Not to mention I am glad now that Logan and Marissa will have a chance to know each other and grow up together.

I am probably being selfish but I am so glad things are working out!

Boot Camp Week #2

2010-07-30T10:17:00.001-07:00

As if I didn't punish myself enough last week, I went back for more this week! I must say, this week was MUCH harder than the last. You'd think it gets easier week to week and I guess it eventually does. We just did different exercises and used different muscles than last time. It was brutal but felt good at the same time.

We use "weight" or "barbells" that look something like this:

We don't get pretty colored ones or anything. Just plain ole white but they work the same. They weigh nothing but when combined with a ton of water they aren't so "light" anymore. We did all kinds of weight exercises, all the while, keeping the weights UNDER the water but continue moving them AND your legs at the same time. It's definitely tough but I know that's the point.

While in the deep end we wear these:

Prettier color than the weights. We use the purple ones. Last week my weight belt was not cooperating. For the life of me I could not get it to get tight enough. I was pushed all over the pool and it was involuntary. It was a struggle for sure but I guess I ended up working harder to stay in one place.

I can definitely feel the after effects more today than last week. My shoulder blades got it the worst. I'll be fine and it's not as bad as I thought it would be. It did warrant taking 3 tylenol before bed last night. I was anticipating very sore shoulders/arm.

This is what the aquatic center indoor pool looks like:

Yes it really does look that color in there. I'm sure during the day it gets brighter. It's got a pretty relaxed atmosphere. The water feels great!

The drop-in, $5 per class, water aerobics bootcamp only lasts through August. So I'll only get to enjoy about 4 more classes since they are only once a week. I am really thinking about trying a regular water aerobics class. I believe they are 2 nights a week. It's actually pretty fun.

Glad I'm at least half attempting to do something for myself and my body. Even if it is only once a week. It gets me out of the house and gives me some mommy time along with some buddies!

Fun-Filled Friday nights!

2010-07-28T05:02:00.000-07:00

Logan has a friend from school named Landon. He and Landon are like brothers! They are inseparable! They have been in the same class together since Logan was 8 months old. They are great buddies! And have a love/hate relationship at times. I also work with Landon's Mom, Angie.

We have ended up doing a Friday night playdate tradition. It started out with just the 2 boys and has grown to include 2 other boys from school, Zachary and Jackson, and their parents. The more the merrier! It's a great way to let the boys enjoy each other, play their little hearts out, jump in the tub after getting extremely hot/sweaty/dirty, and wind them down for bed. It's a lot of work but it's fun! It's also fun hanging out with other parents and having some adult time as well.

Last Friday night we all had dinner. Zach's Mom, Lindsey, made Swedish Meatballs (yum), rice, and green beans. Jackson's Mom, Alexis, brought salad. I brought a big bowl of delicious fruit (Thanks Publix) and ice cream sandwiches. We gotta eat and we did it right! We usually get together at Ms. Angie's house. She also had a 3 month old, Macie, and it's easier for them to just host the event. They are not cooks so everyone else just worries about providing good eats!

Angie found a $2 Slip-N-Slide at Target. When I pulled up and saw that thing in the yard I got a little nervous. It was sloping down the pretty big hill in the front yard. I kept thinking that when they play one of them is gonna end up in the street. It looked pretty scary. I didn't realize there is a little catch pool at the end. So it actually stops them. Plus, it's not like it was right at the street.

The boys had an awesome time! They kept going and going and going. They must have been out there for a good hour. Mr. Mike, Landon's dad, took the hose and sprayed the water as the boys went down. It made them FLY and it worked loads better. Even Mr. Mike took a turn, clothes and all! Needless to say it didn't work too well. I think the heavier you are the less it works.

I tried to get as many good pictures as I could. It's hard when you have 4 2 and 3 year olds moving at lightning speed. They weren't paying a bit of attention to the camera. They were just having a blast and worring about how fast they could get back up the hill and go again. I am happy to report no broken bokes, bruises, or concussions!

We love our Fun Filled Friday nights!

Boot Camp!

2010-07-23T05:13:00.001-07:00

Well, I did it! I made it through my first Water Aerobics Boot Camp! And surprisingly it was pretty fun! Aside from the fact that I'm not a strong swimmer and I got a major leg cramp at one point, I think I'll try it again.

At our local aquatics center they offer all sorts of crazy classes. A friend at work who just had a baby 3 months ago found out about a water aerobics boot camp through taking her son to swimming lessons. It's not your ordinary, every day sissy slow paced water aerobics class. Oh no! YOU WORK YOUR BUTT OFF! And it feels great! The class is only $5 a pop. This allows you to just drop on by whenever your little heart desires.

Everything was going smoothly until I realized my weight belt wouldn't tighten and kept riding up to my arm pits and boobs! I don't think this is how it's supposed to function. No matter how hard I tried to keep it in place it kept right on riding! It was pretty difficult to keep myself in one place when the thing kept pusing me foward. A couple of times I ended up right on top of a fellow classmate. Along with the movements and trying to keep myself in one spot I think I worked harder than a lot of the others.

I felt pretty ridiculous at some points. Especially when I was stuck at the shallow end later on with all the old folks. But I just couldn't do the shallow end workout without being toward the stairs since I am barely 5 foot and we weren't wearing our weight belts at this point. I tried to make it in the deeper end but found it highly impossibe! Every second I was down there I felt like I was going to drown at any second! Thankfully the instructor pointed and sent me straight to wear I needed to be. I felt like I was being punished and was headed to the principal's office. But she knew where I needed to be and was I ever so thankful!

Maybe I need a cute little hat to make me work harder and look better! She really rocks it! And the color is amazing! ;)

I think I'll try it again next week. I don't want to give up after one class. It was great being there with some people I knew too. That way I was suffering alone except that these ladies are pros! Maybe one day I'll be a pro too!

Wordless Wednesday (A day late)

2010-07-15T06:58:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

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

Wordless Wednesday (Oldie but Goodie)

2010-06-30T05:29:00.000-07:00

New Home!!

2010-06-29T06:39:00.000-07:00

In May 2010 it had been a year since we'd been to church. We just werent' happy with the church we were attending. We didn't feel it had anything to offer for us or Logan. There was no one there our age, no real kids program, just not getting what we need.

A year later it had really been on our hearts to find a new home church. Logan is getting older and to the age where he really is starting to understand a lot of things and to learn so much. We want God to be a part of his life as well as ours. We had been lazy for a year and felt it was time to spead our wings and open our hearts back to God. We started looking and found Cross Pointe Church. http://www.crosspointechurch.com/index.htm A friend of ours parents go there. There are a ton of churches so therefore a ton of options. We honestly didn't look too hard or too far before we found it. I happened upon their website, checked it out, saw what they had and we went for it.

It's been 5 weeks since we started attending Cross Pointe. We fell in love the very first day. Dr. James Merritt is the Senior Pastor there and is absolutely AMAZING! He has done so much in his life and continues to live his life for God! And he is somewhat of a celebrity. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Merritt He has a special way of preaching where it's not really like preaching. His messages are so well thought out, pertain to every day life, and keep you captivated! We are so grateful and blessed to have found this church.

This past Sunday, June 27th, Justin and I were baptised at Cross Pointe. It was an incredible experience. Neither one of us had been baptised and so we decided to do it together. We are trying to turn over a new leaf, live life more for God, change our way of thinking and our behaviors. We are proud to have done this and can start really teaching Logan who God is and what he has done for us.

We love Cross Pointe and can't wait to become even more involved in everything the church as to offer! Praise God!

Zoo Atlanta-5/30/10

2010-06-04T07:19:00.000-07:00

Where are all the animals?? I was wondering the same thing! We got there early to see them all out. They are early risers. I'll have to go back through the camera and add some more.

Water Baby!!

2010-06-01T18:11:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed our time at the pool party on Saturday! Stephanie, who I work with, had a birthday party for her daughter, Ellie. She is 4 and so stinkin pretty!! The party was in her in laws neighborhood. A very nice pool in a very nice neighborhood. The pool was fun, the food was good, and the kids had a blast!! They were all blue by the time it was over thanks to the cupcakes! But it was nothing a little time in the pool didn't fix!

Logan loved the pool! He didn't want to get out. Last year he hated the life vest and this year the complete opposite. I think it fits him better than last year so it's probably more comfortable. Plus, he's getting more brave! He was so cute!

Beach Bums 2!

2010-05-29T01:52:00.001-07:00

Beach Bums!

2010-05-29T01:48:00.000-07:00

Play Ball!

2010-05-18T09:51:00.001-07:00

So, about 4:45 Monday afternoon, right at quittin' time, our CEO came to me and said he had 4 Braves tickets, 6 rows right behind the dugout, for me if I wanted them. I immediately thought of Justin b/c we all know he's such a big, huge Braves fan, whether they are doing good or not.

I called and said "Would you skip softball tonight if I told you I had 4 FREE Braves tickets for tonight's game?" His response "Uh, yeah!" You can't beat the location and free parking!

We started the mad scramble of who we could take, who would watch Logan, would we be able to make it in time. Turns out it was just the 3 of us. A Harner family outing! I was worried Logan would be a holy terror with not being able to run around. He was confined into the tight space (the length of the 4 seats we had) with not much to do. He had a blast, took it all in, and even participated in the cheering and the Tomahawk Chop! I love that kid.

In the rush to get everything together (changing into Braves attire, getting the bag ready, making sure Logan had a cup and all the necessities, waiting for Justin to get home, I didn't have time to really grab the camera. I did have my phone which takes ok pictures which is better than NO pictures.

This was Logan's first Atlanta Braves game since he was probably about 8 months old. We didn't plan on taking him back to Turner Field for another few years. That kid is a busy body and does NOT like to sit still. We just knew it would be a disaster. He rocked! And loved it!! So proud of my little guy! Yes, we were out way past his bed time and we paid for it on the ride home. But eventually he stopped screaming, fell asleep, and didn't wake up til time for school! It was a fun night!!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-12T04:57:00.001-07:00

Boys will be boys!!

2010-05-09T09:01:00.000-07:00

Fun trip to the park the other night with Landon! These boys go to school together and have since they were babies. They love each other and they hate each other at the same time! :) They are like brothers. They play like brothers AND even fight like brothers. But they are so dang cute!!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-05T13:41:00.000-07:00

Typical Sunday Morning

2010-04-18T08:03:00.000-07:00

More of Miss Ava

2010-04-13T18:16:00.001-07:00

Ava Brooke is 3!!

2010-04-11T20:10:00.000-07:00

And as sassy as can be!

Some of our favorite people and best friends in the world, The Roberson's, asked me to take their daughter, Ava's, 3 year photos. So, we packed it up and we headed to Stone Mountain today. And what a gorgeous day it was! This is after spending the entire afternoon with them at Ava's birthday party at the park and spending the night at their house. So fun!

Ava is such a ham and knows how to really work the camera! She is so photogenic when she wants to be! She is such a beautiful little girl and I love doing closeups of her. These are a few of my favorite shots from today. Note the cute, adorable dress she's wearing. That is compliments of ME! :) Love it!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-08T05:46:00.000-07:00

Our family had a fun Easter Sunday this year. We all got together, gave Logan lots of Easter baskets, had an Easter Egg Hunt (or two), enjoyed some yummy dinner, and family time. Hoping your family had as great a day as we did!

Happy Easter..........

2010-04-05T06:50:00.000-07:00

or not!

Logan was a little scared. He screamed out once but only for a second when the Easter Bunny came out. We were first in line. After that he was ok. Did better than I expected. I think it helped that he wasn't sitting IN his lap. He really would have freaked.

I didn't care what it looked like really. I just wanted a picture with him and the Easter Bunny. Not too bad for his first one!