Watermelon Mama

Christmas has past

2012-01-04T15:51:00.000-08:00

Unbelievably Christmas and the rest of 2011 has past. It is so strange that we are actually in a new year. Remember when you had to write a letter to yourself or at least project what you would be doing or be like 20 years from now when you were in grade school? I remember thinking man, a 30 year old would be so old. Or , I'll be on the beach somewhere teaching impoverished children somewhere.

Well here we are... three children, married 10 years, stay at home mom. Wow!

Christmas at my moms- we stayed home Christmas Day and the day after Christmas.

Friday we had Christmas with moms side of the family (smiths) and Friday dads side (jones)

Here is my little shephard boy

Corbin loved decorating his tree. He says it's his best tree ever. We like the name our friends gave it, " the Dave Ramsey tree."

What kinds of things did you write about in your grade school letters?

Announcing Baby Aiden

2011-12-19T13:50:00.001-08:00

Wow! What a whirlwind, TV baby delivery!

I had been reading and praying about a Bradley delivery and fast labor. God answered our prayers. Here is the story of Aiden's birth.

I woke with contractions at 5 am. I don't know what it is about me starting labor in the middle of the night.

This was definentaly labor and we were going to meet our new baby today! The emotional sign post was good and excited and that quickly lead to the questions of how long is this labor going to take?... How hard and painful was labor going to be? ... would I have back labor like Addie?

I called mom around 6am. She was going to come over and help me and bring Lydia to be with the kids. At this point I am still trying to rest and relax my body and save my energy for the hard part that was to come.

Holly Ward is and amazing woman of God that I met in life group. She is a labor and delivery nurse that is staying home with here two girls right now. I had asked her to be my labor coach. What peace she brought to our birth. I called Holly at a little before 8a and said contractions were about 10 min apart. Holly arrived at 9 am and mom shortly after. At that time they were about 3-5 min apart and Holly went ahead and texted my midwife at 10a.

At this point I am stopping to breath through contractions and some of them were really strong. Holly prayed with me, quoted scriptures and talked me through some contractions. We changed positions a lot and went to the bathroom a lot, but the most relaxing was laying on the bed, side lying.

Contractions were coming about 1-2 min apart and I was getting to the point where I asked for the epidural with Addie, so I was talking to Holly about when we should begin to head to the hospital. I was thinking I had over an hour or two before we should be concerned with rushing to the hospital.

I don't know if you know me very well, but I am terrified of needles and knew that upon arrival they would put IV port in my hand, which has been terrible the first two births, they always have to stick me several times all during labor of course. Also,due to having a C-section already I have to have the fetal heart monitor on my belly. It is a tight elastic belt that has a box on the top that sends heart rate info to the machine for the nurses to check. These things really made me anxious to go and labor at the hospital, so I wanted to wait and labor as much at home as possible.

We decide to leave for the hospital at 10:35. Many times I would have to stop and breath through a contraction along the way. That means I get down to the truck at 11a. At this point I am surprised to find out that I want to push with my contractions. All of us look at each other like ..."the hospital is pretty far away to want to push already". Holly says well our options are to go to Harrison, Floyd, Clark or ambulance. Do you think you can make it through 12 contractions? Okay, let's go to Clark. From 11:02- 11:28 God granted us speed and perseverance because I don't know how it could be humanly possible for us to make that time from Corydon to Clark with all the traffic headed to the bridge.

I would constantly ask Holly "What do I do Holly? Anytime I would get scared or panicked I would sing to God or pray or ask Holly what to do. The whole time trying to get my other muscles to relax. Now, we don't want to have the baby in the truck or the side of the road, so I am not suppose to push with these contractions. Holly is coaching me to breath up high in my chest and to try not to push yet. Goodness.

We are getting near Floyd and Holly asks if we can make it 8 more contractions. I say we can't make it. Matt turns around and says what about the money we paid Clark? I hesitate and then say Okay let's go to Clark.

As soon as we pull into the ER bay a guy runs out and asks what's the matter. Matt yells, she's having a baby! Holly called ahead to tell them we were on our way. Matt says this rush of 10 people run out to pull me out of the truck onto the guerney. Onc nurse says she's on backwards, the guy tells her she won't be on here long. Most of this is a blur to me till we get to the elevator and I don't see Matt. He had went to park the truck and Holly assures me he will be here soon. We get to the delivery room just in time for me to all out push and baby is crowning. I remember holding on to the bar of the bed and everything was happening so fast. Holly quickly comes up beside me and helps me to breath and slow down a little bit. Matt appears and my doctor did not make it before Aiden comes out to say hello.

Matt laughs that I said, "Holly it hurts..." I know all of the ladies are laughing or saying amen!

11:32a Aiden Wesley Murphy is laid on my belly. I am relieved, crying, smiling, and hugging all over my little boy. Dark curly brown hair and dark skin, my husband is looking around at everyone thinking this cannot be my child. Aiden is 8pounds 3.4 ounces and 22inches long.

Praise Jesus! We made it! My midwife was there to deliver the placenta and help check us all at the end. Dr. Hanigin was there by God's grace to deliver as she was checking on another patient in labor. No IV, No monitor, no drugs and no tearing! God is so good.

Altogether 6 1/2 hour labor God answered our prayers. Now we have the hard part, taking care of a newborn.

Here is our precious Aiden Wesley

One of the things you learn in a Bradley (birthing class) class is. "I can do anything for a day..." So this is one of the montras I am quoting to myself to get through a contraction.

Corbin loves and kisses on Aiden just as much as I do.

Proud papa

Labor Day

2011-09-06T16:02:00.000-07:00

So, how many of you really know what Labor Day is for? I didn't. Neither did anyone I asked on Monday so Matt had to discover the facts. I'll let you look that up on your own.

Anyway, we needed a day out of the house, even though it decided to drop majorly in temperature. Sat 107* Mon 69*

So, jeans, long sleeve, tennis shoes and jackets later we went to the Water Tower and enjoyed the 6th annual Bluegrass Festival

they feature music and burgoo *I had to look up burgoo (apparently very famous in KY)

We took my parents, my sister Lydia, and my brother Adam

I'll post pics later

The wind was brutal and kept blowing in the mics of the performers. So, I don't think I could be a fair judge of the talent but they did okay.

Corbin was in love with his corndog and chasing Addie in circles

Addie was in love with her fries and dancing to the pickin'

Matt, Adam, Mom and Dad loved the corn hole turnament that my parents won!

I loved my burgoo (veggie and meat stew) and holding my redhead that fell asleep.

Lydia, well, I wonder if she had fun. :)

Great day to enjoy even if it was alittle cool!

Prego

2011-08-31T19:17:00.000-07:00

I have to update some pictures from this summer, but wanted to make a post before I couldn't remember my way back here.

So this pregnancy has flown by so far. I am about 27weeks along.

Did you ladies like being pregnant? I think its neat feeling the life of your baby moving around inside. I am very blessed to not be sick. However, I do subcome to the regular grumpy mom syndrome. I don't like being easily annoyed or agitated but it strikes often. The worst side affect of this pregnancy is the veins that are showing on my legs. The doctor says they may or may not go fade away after the birth. My right leg by my calf is very bad and they hurt. I cannot stand a lot without them aching. Compression socks will be my friend when the weather cools down.

I am chronically tired. Today was very much a testament to that. Took a two hour nap with addie and don't really feel rested at all.

Corbin loves touching my belly and talking about the baby. He wants a boy like his friend Jansen, but if he has to he will take another girl like addie, he says. Addie is oblivious to the concept of a baby in my belly, but chatters like crazy about every baby she sees that we pass in the store. Our life will be very different soon.

I love the verse that God tells us how before we were born He knew us an formed us. God is with this little one and preparing us to right for each other.

I love you already little one.

Mickey and Minnie

2011-04-19T07:25:00.001-07:00

Well, my two children are both born in April. This year I wanted to have their birthdays together. So you will meet our Mickey and Minnie Mouse kids. :)

Corbin is now four- nearing the end of his first year in preschool. He loves playing outside and you often hear him say he's going to work and then heads out the door. Corbin is my funny boy. He has lately enjoyed singing and can say the entire pledge of allegiance.

Adaline is now 2. She is my little cuddle bug and daddies teacup. Adaline would love to go to preschool with Corbin and tells him bye and I love you everytime we drop him off. She is into everything and loves to climb. She is beginning to count and loves to talk and sing.

Uncle Adam and Aunt Dana gave Corbin Mickey ears awhile back and Corbin was too little to know about them. When I got them out for his Mickey party he danced around the house saying he was Mickey Mouse. He and Addie like to watch Mickey Mouse clubhouse.

I made Addies ears. What a fun day to spend with my kids. They are so fun. I really like 2 and 4.

Mom got some better pictures I'll have to post some more later.

Good Times

2011-01-22T18:22:00.000-08:00

Looking back at the pictures off my camera. There were several good pictures I couldn't pass up to share. Again, the pictures are in order yet backwards of where I wanted them placed. So, this should be the last picture you see. Let's just pretend. Shall we? :)

Christmas with the Jones'= Christmas with family is treasured. This is one of the serious moments that we shared Christmas night. Nana and Peepaw are having a little fun with Corbin's new present from Aunt Lydia.

Here Rebekah had her final piano recital as she has graduated out of her lessons. Miss Rebekah our beautiful college freshman.

Momma turns 33- Wow! Can you believe that young lady in the picture below is really 33! Mom had a birthday dinner for me. She made at my request potatoe soup and Lizzy served them in her specialty, bread bowls she made herself. It was a great night to spend together.

Scrooge- This was Lydia's last year to play the angel of Christmas Past. What an adorable sister. She did an outstanding job!

Our beloved Scrooge-minus a wig. Frick and Frack do not seem appropriate. Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dumb seem more appropriate yet this does not encompass this pair. However, best buddies are pictured here.

Another set of buddies since childhood... Adam and I were able to celebrate our birthdays together. We went to Joe's Crab Shack and then ... wait for it.... The Toby Mac concert!!!!! bonus Skillet. Yeah, great concert.

My little Tea Cup- She is so cute in her piggy tails.

My little treasures- cuddling on the couch

Shortly after Corbin would not be left out of having mommy time.

Some good times I thought I'd share with you. There are many others to share. Love to all

Cutting of the Tree

2010-12-17T19:40:00.000-08:00

I had forgotten how funny the blogger sight was, How you have to arrange your pictures in a different order than what you want them to appear. Every year we go and cut a fresh/live tree out on the farm. All but one time we have gone to Hubers. Today was so cold. The wind was cutting right through you. Here is the winning tree. Matt had this great idea about how we select our tree.

We always walk through the farm saying I like this one, and then walking a few steps and saying I like this one. When we turn around to compare the ones we like now we don't remember the first one we liked. So, Matt had this great idea Each person would get a clothes pin to mark their favorite tree. It worked splendidly. Carolyn's tree won this year.

Corbin yells out "Good night, Daddy, look at all those trees!" He couldn't believe that we would have so many choices. :)

We had so much fun inspite of the weather. It is so nice to come off of the farm to warm hot cider for everyone.

My new post and everything!

2010-12-04T12:27:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas, I will try and be a little better than I have been over the last, what, six months?!
I have read the last few entries on many of you and life keeps moving at a break neck speed, huh? A little update for the Murphy family:
We are madly trying to get the house all holified, presents for the first half of the month engagements (went to black Friday for the second time!), going to the Winter Wonder Slam tonight to celebrate Adam and I's Birthdays, I will be making some graduate/licensing decisions this month as my teacher license expires this spring.
Adaline has grown and grown! She is so tall and long that she is in sizes 2T and 3T at age 18months. She is such a chatter bug and talks happily to anyone who listens or even just to herself. She is such a girl; loves to hold babies and purses. She can't keep her hands off the Christmas tree. She has already smashed an ornament against the wall. She loves to draw, keep your pens and pencils out of sight.
Corbin is doing great at preschool and loves going to class, at least after he is out of bed, dressed and ready to deal with the fact that we have to get started with our day. His Indian name for this Thanksgiving was "Mighty Bear". He must be doing some of that roaring at school. He has such a kind heart and loves on his little sister often.
Well, off to the concert!

A Tale of Two Little Munchkins

2010-12-04T11:58:00.001-08:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

Adaline Lynn Murphy Birthday #1

2010-04-13T19:16:00.000-07:00

What a great day we had Saturday! Little miss tea cup had a great party. We had an amazing day, great family and friends to celebrate with, Italian food, cake and punch, and a beautiful little girl to celebrate.

Addie was in such a great mood. She such a precious one.

She was so funny opening presents. She sat in her little chair and watched everyone oo and aah at her. Her favorite thing was reading/eating her cards. Too cute

Amy and the girls got Addie that adorable swimsuit you see on the chair. It is so much fun having new babies and toddlers in our family again. They bring so much life to our family get together.

Now when it came time for the cake Addie looked at it and then at me as if to say "Are you sure you are letting me eat sugar?" So what does she do. She gives it back to me. I let her have a bite and that is all she wrote. Now she wants to eat everything we are eating. Sweet or not.

Ths is the famous big brother. He ran and played the entire time. He didn't even sit still long enough to eat dinner. How could he not with Nana and Peepaw, Grandma and Grandpa, Mark and family so many of his favorite people all here to play with him.

Happy Birthday my precious girl!

Addie's First

2010-04-08T07:45:00.000-07:00

There will be many firsts for our baby girl, but April 7th is her first birthday! Yay! One of the ways we celebrated today was to paint her fingernails. So, today Addie has had her first day with painted toe nails and fingernails. So cute.
Addie is cutting her top teeth so she has been quite the fussy little girl.
We are going to celebrate her birthday Sat. My baby girl's first birthday. :)
One of the firsts we are looking forward to are her first steps and the first time she says "I love you."

My precious one....

I'm hooked

2010-03-29T19:14:00.000-07:00

So every Tuesday I have a little ritual. I have been putting the kids to bed and watching Lost and The Good Wife. I really like Lost this season. There are so many new characters and new ideas. I am curious how they will end this season. I am the type of viewer to like a show and movie really well and then if the ending is not to my liking that heavily weighs into how I ultimately like the show. So, we shall see about Lost.
Needless to say I am looking forward to tomorrow night.
The Good Wife is good. I like the law and courtroom scenes. This is the only night of the week I sit down for shows. Of course this also means that I like Law and Order. I am alone is this at my house. If I'm really living it up I'll make some hot tea or popcorn to go along with my TV night. I know, I need to tame it down. :)

spring glitches

2010-03-22T15:05:00.001-07:00

So, with spring comes those fun, stinky lady bugs. I love lady bugs and apparently Addie does too. She still sticks everything in her mouth and tried the lady bug the other day. yuck! I was sure that I saw her do it and went fishing in her mouth with my finger to find nothing. She looked up and I saw it sticking to the roof of her mouth. double yuck! So, I finally got it out and my beautiful blue-eyed girl was able to live another day. :)

Lots of savings

2010-03-20T06:45:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday evenings we have a class at church called STRIVE. You've probably heard Michelle talk about this class. Well, one night they focused on couponing. There really is a science to finding the best deals. Well, I'm all about the deal and finding savings. So, I have been working on getting better at saving money on things I buy. We probably spend $200-$250 in groceries a month. Yesterday I only bought sale items and used a coupon on everything possible. I went to Walmart this time. I really like Aldi and Meijer, but Walmart is close and they price match other adds. I took the JayC, Kroger, and Dollar General add with me. I have been getting coupons from the Sunday paper (which is on sale for $1 delivered every Sunday) and online.

Here are the items I bought. They filled the island in our kitchen. I bought 95 items and found them on sale or had a coupon for almost everything. Out of 95 items I used 16 coupons. I got deals like Matt's creamer reg. 2.76 sale 1.99 and $1 off coupon for 2. I ended up getting 2large international creamers for 1.50 each. Or lunch meat oscar myer shaved deli meat is reg 3.98 sale 2.50 plus $1/2 so they were $2.00 each Motts apple juice on sale .99 dinoyogart reg 1.37 $1.00 off coupon. Anyway, I was so excited. The best deal of all... are you ready for this? The reece's dark chocolate cups were .50 and I had a coupon for .55 off. So, they paid me .05 to eat reece on the way home from my savings hunt! Awsome!

A website I love to check out is hip2save.com. She tells you all kinds of tips on how to shop. She loves Target and if you are a target shopper definitely check there before you go to the store. Two of the deals I have gotten from the sight are crocs for Addie $8.99 shipped to my house. I wouldn't normally spend crocs prices for a kid but since this was so low thought I would try them out and see if I like them. Also and you have a week left of this deal. You can make a photo book, bound with text and beautiful by Picaboo for free. You can make a 20 page book for only shipping price till the end of March. I am making one for Addie's first year. I have the coupon code if you need it. Also the sight features new products that they let you sample for free or even video tours of her getting deals at the stores. My regular check of the sight is for Walgreens/cvs/right aid/and Target. She walks you through the ads for the week and points our what you can get and how to use the coupons to get you items for real cheap and sometimes free.

Now I know you are wondering how much I spent on my 95 items. I didn't have coupons for the baby food, addies hair bands, bread,and other similar items that I wanted, but all the items with tax= $153.20

Yay!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Life of Two

2010-03-17T12:17:00.000-07:00

I know I have been neglectful of my duties to my fans. :) I can't believe it has been over a month since my last post. Well, my children have grown since Christmas. So, that is what we'll start with today.
Corbin and Addie love to cuddle and see each other every day.

Every night we brush teeth, change and get ready for bed, read a Bible story and pray.

Addie loves getting into her food

This is how you will find my children on most days. One sock on and one off. I didn't even notice they were both missing socks until later.

Addie is nearly walking and Corbin is getting better and better at communicating and speaking what he is thinking and what he needs. Growling and roaring is still a common communication tool but he is now using more words to go with his sounds.

Two little teeth

2010-02-01T11:52:00.001-08:00

Yes, It has happened at last!
Addie has gotten two little toophers. Our nights are much more peaceful and she is so much happier now that the teeth have made an appearance. Here is a little update on my precious one.

Adaline Lynn

Light brown hair-hopefully to turn blond
-Baby fine and still not long enough to beret or pony.
-Often sticks up on the right side. :)
Chubby cheeks-from her father
-so soft and kissing worthy
Two teeth!-with more in progress
Cute pot belly that is quickly sticking out of her 9month shirts telling me to move her into the next size.
Little pudgy hands that like to wave, clap, grab and point her right pointer finger. She breaks out in giggles when you point and wiggle your finger up to hers. Her little clap is so fun.
Rolly polly leggums- She loves to crawl, bounce, and walk along the hearth below the fireplace.
Thick precious feet that never want to wear shoes- Addie's feet are not quite as square or thick as Corbins were but similar. She takes off her shoes and socks constantly.
My little girl is such a jabber jaws. She loves making noise, talking with herself and Corbin.
My precious one.

The last of 2009

2010-01-24T19:29:00.000-08:00

Well, maybe I am catching up to the present. I am just now putting to rest my Christmas photos. I love Christmas and the holidays. The kids had so much fun. What I really enjoyed was Corbins enthusiasm over the Christmas story and how he savored each gift. It took hours to open presents, not because we had a lot to open, but because he wanted to check out and play with each item. Adaline was enamored with everything Corbin was doing. Here is a photo of Corbin playing with Addies toys. Bonus! Everything addie has is corbins. hee hee. Or so he thinks.

Addie and her two gifts for Christmas. She really liked her First Doll Baby.

Corbin was in heaven with all the cars. Remember the blog about him finding his gift? Well, he fell in love all over again.

This is his little tool set from uncle Adam and aunt Dana. He is more safety inclined than his father. Sporting the cool goggles.

People keep telling me to enjoy this time with my kids and how much fun they are now at Christmas. I can tell you I have soaked it all in this year. I have just enjoyed spending time with my little family so much . God has blessed us beyond measure.

Uncle Mark and Aunt Kara

2010-01-19T11:09:00.000-08:00

Mark and Kara came by right before Christmas with fun surprises. Corbin loves with Mark and Kara come over. They are not our friends, they do not come to see Addie. No, Corbin thinks they are all for himself. He loves when Mark plays. Over the summer a visit from Mark always included a trip to the rock pile. Digging and playing in the gravel is fun for a two year old. Now he likes to play cars and tools.
Well, I can't figure out how to post these pictures in the right order, oops.

Corbin is dancing here with a smile just giddy with anticipation. What did Uncle Mark bring?

Thomas the Train! He wouldn't stop playing for me to get a good picture. He just couldn't wait for the men to get the train set put together.

Bonus: Corbin thinks that all of Addie's gifts are his too. But Addie loves to share. :)

I love his expression here.

Addie stood at her new piano and just played away. It's as if she has been taking lessons.

It even has a bench for her to sit on. Kara said how she looks like an old lady organist. Can't you picture the old ladies at your church at the organ here?

Both of the kids love playing with their gifts and there is nothing more special than when people come to spend time with them. The new piano finds a featured place in the living room but the train set is a little more fragile around an active 9 month old. So, the train set is upstairs where Corbin gets to play with it uninterrupted.

Pretty Lights

2010-01-13T19:03:00.000-08:00

After the kids Christmas Party the girls suggested going by the Charlestown Square and Park to check out the lights. I thought this is probably the closest we will get, so I took the kids by. It was bitterly cold that night buy we did it. I was so impressed! The square was amazing. There was music and everything. It was way too cold to go down to the park but we drove by.

Corbin loved the lights. He was dancing around and insisted we stand and look at the lights a little bit longer.

Everything was so pretty. I would highly recommend this to anyone for next year!

A mini-me christmas

2010-01-12T16:34:00.000-08:00

Jami put together a little kiddie Christmas. Here are the cheesers.

Cooper, Pierce, Hope, Corbin, Adaline, Levi and the green blanket is reserving baby Maggie's seat

Notice Levi's arms around "his baby"

The kids had a ball eating hot dogs, mac n cheese, and puppy chow (thanks jami)

The kids had a great time playing and tackling each other. Thanks for a great party Jami! We missed Jill and her kids. The kids will out number us soon.

Cousin Kensie

2010-01-07T12:50:00.000-08:00

This year cousin Kensie and Aunt Melanie came up for a Christmas visit. They came for family time and also to see The play the Matt's mom(Carolyn) directed at her church. This was a great weekend to catch up and hang out with the two girls. This is Corbin and Addie's only cousins. We were sorry that Karter (older brother) and Karl were not able to come and visit.

Kensie is awsome with little ones. You could tell she really liked holding, feeding, and even changing Addie. I really liked getting to know this different side of Kensie. She has grown so tall and will soon be a beautiful young lady.

Melanie seems to be never changing. Always the exceptional sister, happy to help and serve anytime. I cannot believe that Melanie and Karl will have their 10th wedding anniversary this June. Melanie gave us Butterscotch Brownies and Muffins. The Brownies were amazing and I am saving the muffin mix for a savory breakfast.

As usual Melanie, Karl, Kensie, and Karter picked out noise makers for the children. :) Corbin got this cool laser gun and it goes boing and ping. yay Corbin also got kiss me elmo, so cute. Addie got this frog that talks. She loves to squeeze and lay on the frog. More than the presents the kids received I loved the reaction Kensie had opening her blanket. Don't have a picture to show but I made fleece blankets for Karter and Kensie. Karter got a hunter orange/soccer ball blanket and Kensie got a lipstick/cheer leading blanket. I'll have to have Melanie send me a picture of the two with their blankets.

We had a great dinner with the porter's and murphy's Sat. Ribs, mashed potatoes, and much more. Sunday we went to the play. Carolyn and the participants did an outstanding job. Keith and her worked so hard to get everything perfect. I love family time.

Kicking off the CHRISTmas season

2010-01-06T18:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy Birthday, Happy New Year! Sorry to have not posted over the last two months. I spend a few days and catch you up. I love spending time with family and friends and as many of you know my "language of Love" is quality time. In fact, one of the ear marks of Christmas is a party here at the house. Many of you saw the post by Tracey/Gretchen/Jami but here are a few of my own pictures.

Here is the line for food. And a few at the table enjoying first course.

I love this mid-air shot of Eric eating. You show them how it's done!

Matt is peaking at the camera. I later heard that he had to move seats because his back was roasting in the fire. :) I didn't even know Matt(my matt) had even gotten a fire going.

I had so much fun preparing our Italian Night. We had a fabulous time!

We ended up muddling through a game of mafia. I am so glad that we did. It was so much fun to play a game we enjoyed 10 years ago. :) How could you go wrong with chocolate milkshake cocktails, oreo truffles, hot cider, games and friends. Love the holidays.

I know that we will always hold this tradition no matter what the season in our lives. Even if we end up ordering pizza one night I love being with friends. Let's make it a point to get together soon!

Teaser

2010-01-04T20:07:00.000-08:00

This is to let you know something new is on the way. I spent a couple hours catching up on you guys I'll share tomorrow. :)

Fishy Face

2009-11-09T19:58:00.000-08:00

Addie is so funny. She does this fish face with her lips. What a cutie!

My little fishy!

oops, one Christmas found

2009-11-03T20:46:00.001-08:00

Well, silly mommy. I had left this christmas gift for Corbin laying in the office until I got back from an errand and Corbin found it before I put it away. Matt asked me what I was thinking but I really didn't think he would go in the office, he rarely does. Well anyway, he played with it for three hours. I put it away that night thinking he would just forget. Yea, no. He asked about it again that next morning and I just changed the subject. Luckily he hasn't said anything about it since.
I found this set on craigs list and Eric, my buddy, went and picked it up for me. So cute. 22 cars of Lightning McQueen and his friends with a track that slings them around. He is going to love playing with it "again" :)

I was so cute to watch him line the cars up and drive them around. It is neat to see Corbins development and how he is learning how to play and pretend. Kids learn by play.

Great Familly Day

2009-11-02T20:25:00.000-08:00

For Matt's Birthday weekend we had a great family day. We went to the Saint James Art Fair and then took Corbin to his first movie. They were playing Toy Story 1 and 2 at Stoneybrook Imax in 3D. We thought this would be great for Corbin since that is one of his all time favorite movie (T2). We cought TS at 4pm after the art fair and this meant without a nap. So, the first movie went okay and he loved being at the movies but Addie was very restless and Corbin did not want to sit for the second movie.

Here is Corbin in his glasses, poor little guy could not sit back in his chair with the glasses on because the chair would push them forward off of his face. they should of had small glasses for the little kids.

Corbin drank the whole icee. He was on quite the sugar high today.

St. James Fair was so nice. We walked around for a couple of hours and enjoyed the blue skys. But it was quite chilly.

Matt liked liked the food and corbin was happy to run around in the park for a little bit. The stroller was a bit hard to push in the crowd, but we just went slow.

Great family day! Matt is 35!

Mommies Bug

2009-10-20T20:02:00.000-07:00

If you ask Corbin he will tell you that this is " Mommies bug". We were asked to be apart of the car show at our church last month. There were five cars and three motorcycles. The fun part was that the car show preceded the family movie, and the movie, (are you ready for this?) The love bug. So fun! So here is my little family buzzing over to the church for the car show.

"Mommies bug" is a 1979 VW Beetle convertable.

Corbin thought the wind in his face was too cold and Addie giggled the whole way there.

A little bit of Addie

2009-10-17T18:25:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist posting some Addie photos. She just brightens my day, as does her brother. Addie has become so attune to her brother and what is going on around her. Now whenever she is eating she has to pop her little head up at any sound to see what is going on or if she is missing anything. You can imagine how that goes with her "quiet brother". She does eat a little cereal now but she seems so content to just have her milk.

The living room floor is her favorite place to play. She can roll around anywhere she desires. Her favorite spot to roll to is under the baby swing. She likes playing with the underside and moving it with her feet.

Ta Da! I am such a big girl. I am six months old now and love putting everything in my mouth.

Mommy's sweet lady bug

My brother loves on me all the time. I love it!

Life with Addie is so precious. I love her cuddly personality. This also means that she doesn't want to be in any room alone. We had Addie's six month pictures taken yesterday. Her blue eyes just sparkle. Love my baby girl

late vacation

2009-10-02T13:12:00.000-07:00

Matt and I love to camp. We have been camping all our lives. We both have great memories of growing up and camping with our families. So, naturally our children will love that tradition as well. This is the first year we have gone with just our little family. We went up to the northern part of Indiana, camped in Potatoe Creek state park, and drove through Amish country with a day in Shipshawana. We camped for two days, but after repeated nights of "low" temperatures (we're talking 37 degrees and 41 degrees) we decided to head up to shipshewana and stay the night in a hotel. Mind you this is the end of August. In fact this is the weekend before labor day. I could not believe how cold it was. During the day was very nice in the lower 70's but the evening and night time air was so cold , Addie caught a cold and a couple of days later Corbin and I also did. It just so happened that we were there in this cold snap. Anyway here are some pictures of our adventures. We took day trips and spent slow afternoon and mornings camping.

This barn is in Shipshawana as a museum of Amish life.
You can see a little of the flower quilt they were featuring this summer.
THis is the auction house that is so famous in Shipshawana. It has been in action for over a hundred years. I bought matching maple sitting chairs and 3 dump trucks for corbin.

THese sunflowers lined the drive at Amish Acres on our way through the country

Corbin loved the outdoors. He had a blast exploring the treed, playsets, and anything we let him do.

Addie would rather cozy up and sleep on my shoulder.

Murphy camp Addie spent her time in the bouncer or walker. I spent my time with the children. Corbin spent his time riding his "cummer" (that is what he has named his tricycle). and running around. Matt spent his time setting up camp and gazing at his new camp kitchen. He also cooked most of the meals. He is a great camp cook.

Monday we went to the South Bend Zoo. It was amazing. I knew that it was a lot smaller than the Louisville Zoo and really had low expectations, but this turned out to be a fabulous zoo. It was so accessible to the animals. You really felt like you were right there in their habitat.

they had a butterfly house and corbin really liked looking at them fly

The girls waiting for lunch.

There was a canal of fish through a section. You could buy fish food and feed the fish. There must have been hundreds of them swarming to get food. They were so think that you could only see fish. It was neat.

the lions were my favorite! They were roaring and walking around. I was within 10 feet of them. They are amazing creatures.

Here are the monkeys, no really there are monkeys in the display.

I loved going to the zoo. I think I was being more of a kid than Addie and Corbin were. Matt really liked seeing our reactions to the animals. But missed camp.

We had a fabulous vacation and really liked our time together. Sleeping was difficult. Corbin would continually wake up and not know where he was and cry out in his semi state of sleep. Addie did really well and only woke up the one time to eat and went right back to sleep. Camping with little children is hard. But we will have plenty memories to share.

Generations

2009-09-23T19:37:00.001-07:00

Can you believe so many beautiful women can be in this picture?
This photo was taken about a month ago so Adaline has just turned five months.
Adaline Lynn Murphy got her name from my Grandma Jones (Antionette Adaline Schmidt Jones) Addie looks so much like my baby pictures. She is such a moose weighing in above 20 pounds. I mean look at those legs. I can't even put my hand around even the smallest part of her leg.
Of course you know which one I am. Melanie Lynn Murphy got her name from Gone With the Wind. Which happens to be my favorite movie of all time. Also not that my daughter has my middle name. I am trying to loose my moose weight :). Lost three pounds already. Yea
My mother Diana Lynn Jones. Note I have my mothers middle name. My mother is such a small lady. She has always been small. I love the spiritual heritage that my mother has given us. She was the one who took Adam and I to church while we were in preschool. It is her prayers and example that have lead my dad and myself to the Lord. she is an awsome soldier for the Lord.
My grandmother Pauline Giles Smith. Back in her generation they did not often have middle names for the girls. They would use their maiden name for their middle name after they married. Grandma constantly surprises me with her knowledge. She grew up as the oldest on the farm. She knows all kinds of things about country cooking and canning. She knows about farming both with livestock and gardening, but she hated that life. She married a preacher and factory worker in the city and married to get away from the farm. She never does any of those things she did on the farm ever. So when we are talking about things and she says "oh, yeah we did.... or yeah you need to....to get that to cook right." it takes me aback because I forget she know those things. I love my family and the heritage that God has given me. I know God honors his promises and blesses those that pray and follow him.

I knew all four of my great grandmothers. I remember distinct characteristics about each one. Addie will know two. I hope she is able to make connections and build relationships with her grandmothers they way I did.

My Precious Ones

2009-09-16T18:24:00.000-07:00

I am amazed at how well these two get along. Corbin just coos over her in the morning. I love when we both go to get Addie out of bed in the morning and Corbin crys out "Addie we coming". It is so precious. She just smiles and lets him pull on her arm. It's as if she knows they are best friends and she lights up whenever he's around.

And if Addie is already awake and Corbin comes in the room he has to go over to her and say hello. It is so cute. He lays his head on her belly and gets real close to her face to let her know he is there to say hi. :)

I can't wait to see how their relationships will grow and change as they get older.

Take Me Out To The Ball Game...

2009-09-15T19:12:00.000-07:00

All four "men" went out to the Bats game a few weeks ago. Everyone had a ball, hee hee.
Corbin ate snacks the entire game and of course any time you can talk, laugh, eat and still follow a game is heaven to most men. Matt had gotten free tickets from one of his work contacts. How fun. I had church obligations so Matt took all of the guys.

Matt, Keith (matt's dad), Corbin, and Mark (matt's best friend)

These three guys are Corbins favorite people. I am sure he didn't stop smiling the entire game. In fact he was out late and never did fall asleep. He was wound to tight with all the snacks and fun.

I am glad Corbin and Addie are able to make such good memories with their grandparents. I love my grandparents but have no memories of doing anything with them. They were all older and never did take us anywhere when we were growing up.

Awsome

2009-09-15T07:36:00.000-07:00

This is Corbin's latest words.... "awsome" and "cool dude"

Love my little guy

...I have noticed that no one has commented the last few posts, not that that is important to me or anything, :) but I guess I need to go to the colts stadium, have a cute kid named Levi, or use the biggest honkin tent around to get a comment? :)

Zoo with 17

2009-09-09T18:36:00.000-07:00

Recently my aunt Pam from North Carolina came in town with my two cousins and Olivia's boyfriend. They decided to go to the zoo for the day a fun outing for the families. We did have a great time. It was terribly hot that day, but everyone at least made it to half of the zoo. My little family did the zoo hard core. We went to all of the animals and played in the water park. Fun fun.

Addie slept a lot of the trip. It was so hot, I'm glad she didn't want to be held the whole way.

If you'll notice Corbin is in mid air. He was jumping all around having a ball. He loves playing in the water.

Corbin is just too little to Wait in line and go to the slide by his self. so, the good mom that I am I walked with him and helped him down. However, I did get quite wet in my clothes. :) It did feel nice once I got past the fact that my hair was now limp and messed up. Anything for my baby boy. He went down he slide about a dozen times.

Yes, there are seventeen family member today. What fun to have this memory at the zoo!

Swimming Fun

2009-09-08T20:48:00.000-07:00

Jr and Kim invited us to swim a few weeks ago. What fun! Corbin is so cute dog paddling around everywhere in his floaties. Matt threw him in the water to see how he would like horsing around and Corbin sputtered and cried. Maybe 2 1/2 year olds don't like that much yet.

Addie really loved the water. Babies are so fatty that they just float. When I let go of her legs she would float up flat and her head relaxed on the ladybug. Cute! She really cued and smiled the whole time in the water.

Kim fed us grilled chicken and hamburgers. She is such a good cook and host. Bucky came by and Jr's brother Matt and his wife Abby. We played pool volleyball and swam until we were prunny. Great time!

Kentucky State Fair

2009-08-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

Thursday we went the the fair; Keith, Carolyn, Corbin, Adaline, and I. We had a great time. I love looking at the animals, especially out of Corbins perspective. He like the pigs and kept snorting as we walked by them. He loves his Grandpa.(he's still working on calling him grandpa, usually this comes out as peepaw)

You can tell the cows were not his favorite, but by this time we had been there for over an hour so maybe this is not the best judge of what he likes. After seeing the cows we went out to the fairway and got a bottle of water and as a special treat some ice cream. He ended up liking the bottle of water better than the ice cream. He really likes taking the top off and on. I enjoyed the ice cream anyway.

I believe this was actually Corbins favorite activity. It really took a lot to get him to leave "his ball" behind. :) I really enjoyed the fair. Thank you Murphy's! We left after the perfect amount of time. Addie was in the sling and then slept in the stroller. Corbin (with no nap) was a great kid and was happy to be out and about. I was a little disappointed not to see Freddie Farm Bureau this time. I always love the talks he gives on 102.3 before each fair year. hee hee.

Marriage

2009-08-10T17:09:00.000-07:00

Can you believe we are 30+ and most of us married? Wow! I look at my little family and think, Wow! I found this picture of my good friend Amanda and her new husband Donnie. They were married last year about this time. What a lovely bride. I cannot believe how life moves so fast. In the middle of the dog days of summer you think won't the cool fall air be nice, but on the other hand we are about to go into 2010. I remember in elementary school how your teacher would make you write letters to yourself in the future and a crazy year would be thrown out there. Well, 2010 would be one of those crazy, too far in the future dates that you think would never arrive for you. Well here we are. :)
Life is good even though/because I am 31 and even though/because I am a mom and wife. Love it!

Sugar

2009-08-09T19:20:00.001-07:00

Sugar and spice and everything nice, that's what girls are made of.....

Addie loves her brother. I am amazed at what she does. She just coos and laughs whenever he is around. Even when he head buts her belly she just smiles like he is her best friend. I will enjoy watching their relationship grow.

Addie loves her toes. I have seen her put them in her mouth. Her dimple kills me. My little sugar. Tonight I saw her roll over from her belly to her back. Matt and Lydia have seen her but I got to see it myself.

Torture Chamber.... I mean the dentist

2009-08-08T11:28:00.000-07:00

Well, I have never be a fan of the dentist. Don't get me wrong I love my dentist he is great. but it is the treatment and the bad news I usually get that makes me cringe when I go. I have always been the one with bad teeth. Adam (my younger brother of 2 years) never had any cavities, but I always did. We had the same eating habits and brushing habits and I would still have the cavity. In fact, the first time I had a cavity it took several dentist before we had the cavity filled. You see in order to fill a cavity you have to get the cavity out by drilling in the tooth. Which means that you have to get a shot in your gums to numb the area. If any of you know me well you know how much I fear needles on/in my body. So they tried, but I wouldn't let any form of needle near my mouth. They tried the laughing gas and I was so terrified of the dentist it didn't work. Finally, the last dentist said you know if you don't let me fix your tooth you will have to see Dr. Miller and he will hold you down in a padded room and make you get your tooth fixed. He scared me but not enough to let him fix it. This all happened when I was seven. Sure enough we went to Dr. Miller. He had this nice children's dentistry office. Everything looked so fun. He was super nice. Well, I wouldn't let him get close to me. Come to find out later I was in a sound proof room in the back of the office. This way screaming wouldn't scare the other children. When I opened my mouth to scream he put this tool in my mouth that prevented me from closing my mouth. Thus, the nurses held me down and he fixed my tooth. ...
Today I see Dr. Jacobi. He is fabulous. I had a routine cleaning this week. He told me how I am in the high risk bracket for tooth decay. Thanks dad. You gave me great genes. So he gave me a special tooth paste for morning and another for night. He acted like I never even brush my teeth. Anyway, I have to be super careful with my teeth for the rest of my life.
I told Matt later that I'd rather just go ahead and get them taken out, rather than continue to hear bad things every time I go.
I pray my children take after Matt. He has great teeth.

My pretty girl!

2009-08-02T19:34:00.001-07:00

My beautiful girl. Can you believe it has been a whole month with no blogs of my children or anything. I have had a month full of life. I taught four weeks of chef school at IUS for project ahead.(that is for 3/4th graders) We had VBS along with Terrific Tuesdays. Then there is life with a three month old and a two year old BOY! Well, not much energy to think or type tonight but I knew that I had to get something up here. :)

This was at the 2009 Smith reunion. Mom took the kids, I had a dinner party for church already planned. This is Addie with her great aunt Amy.

Here is Addie and I. This is a picture of myself at two months. So, all those who don't know who Addie looks like. She looks like her momma. What a beautiful girl. She is growing so fast.

More to come soon. I promise.

Mom"s 50th

2009-06-30T19:09:00.000-07:00

We really surprised mom this year. And you think she'd expect it. I know she knew something was up but she really didn't know it was Friday. She was so surprised when we came home from a girl day and there everything was set up for the part. At first she thought that it was just for our immediate family until she saw the huge cake and all the plates and silverware. What a good surprise. Thank you all who were able to come and make mom's birthday the best one ever. I don't know if she likes this birthday turning 50 but she is doing great.

Friday, June 12th was the big day. Mom and I went out for lunch at Jewel's House of Tea (awsome place) and then had a peticure together. How fabulous. It was great to spend some time just with my mom. She is such a special lady. I am blessed to have her as my mom.

Time with Dad

2009-06-30T19:00:00.000-07:00

Matt loves to take off with Corbin. They hop in the car and off they go. None of this check the diaper bag, make sure Corbin has his cup. They just get in and go. Moms and dads are so different. I love watching my two men hang out and bond. This day they went to get fish for the pond and they ended up having ice cream.

Here is Matt with his father on Father's Day. I know Matt really enjoys all the quality time he gets to have with his dad now that they live close and he can call him any time. He even calls him to go to work with him. Not to mention Grandpa Murphy is Corbins favorite person. Way to go Murphy men.

Street Wedding

2009-06-27T11:14:00.000-07:00

Anna's younger sister Alisa was married in June. This means that Anna was home for a few weeks. She was so consumed with helping with the wedding that I didn't get to see her until the wedding but I did get to meet her new little boy Florian and she got to meet my new little girl.
The reception hall was beautiful. So nice, with a sit down dinner for everyone. The bride was breathtaking and the groom beaming.

This is Florian, Anna's little boy, born March 12th.

Corbin and Aurelian played during photos. Aurelian is 3. He is so cute speaking english with his French accent.

My baby girl! All in her pink.

Mom, Liz, and Lydia all got to go with us. A very nice wedding. Addies first.

A boy of 2

2009-06-19T19:02:00.001-07:00

What does a boy of two like to do? Well the day begins with toast and dry cereal. He likes to slowly wake up with breakfast and a chat with dad. Now that it is summer he loves playing outside as soon as I'll let him out the door.

Corbin likes to rock his sister and watch her movements.

He loves playing outside in his hat. He has gotten pretty brave on his tricycle from uncle mark and his little car. Did you know that the number one car sold last year in the United States is Corbins Little Tike car? What a popular kid. :)

Anyway he'll back up his car/ or trike up to the garage and scream down the hill toward where the bucket truck parks. Wow! So far no wipe outs.

He also loves playing in the rock pile. Instead of sand we have gravel in the turtle. That way there is less mess.

He just enjoys running around, chasing birds, and yelling at whatever catches his eye. He has this move where he shouts to the sky while he is lunging forward with a stick raised to the air. I don't know what he is saying or who it is meant for, but I'll pretend he is communicating with the Lord. Corbin is so much fun to watch.

Apple is one of his newest words and his current favorite fruit. It use to be watermelon and before that bananas.

My little guy is so full of life. What fun we have. Soon there will be three of us running in the yard. If Addie decides she wants to be a mover like corbin one day.

Smiles

2009-06-19T18:48:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love the coos and smiles!? Addie is so adorable. She is 11 weeks old and full of sweetness. She is such a good sleeper and when she is awake she is so content. What wonders a few weeks will do at this stage of life. Addie has slept till 6am. the last three nights! Wow! Praise God!

big brother Corbin loves to help out. He especially likes to jam the paci down her throat. I really have to watch out when he wants to "help". Yes Corbin has only a diaper on. I don't remember the catastrophe that day, but he must have mucked up his clothes from being outside.

Addie really likes to chew on her fingers and hands. Someone asked if she was teething. She is a bit young for that but I haven't checked. I think she'll keep her brown hair. Mom said that from birth to two months I had dark hair and by three months old it had all fallen out and I have had blond hair ever since. Addie has also found her fingers today. She just looked at them. See how observant she is?

Adaline is my little angel. I love talking to her and watching her light up at my voice. Her chunky cheeks are so cute. You just can't kiss them enough. I am enjoying getting to know this precious child. She is so different from Corbin. She is content to sit and watch what is happening. He was all wiggles and movement when he was even that young.

Murphy Family Time

2009-06-03T13:01:00.000-07:00

Miss Melanie came to visit Mother's Day Weekend. It is always so wonderful to have her and her family come up when they can. Melanie came by herself this time. I wish we could have seen Karl and the Kids but perhaps another day.
Here is Auntie Melanie with little Addie. Melanie had made dinner for the family to give Carolyn time out of the kitchen.

Not long after her visit Feona had her triplets. They are Shetland and Finn cross. Currently Feona has her hair shaved but when it is grown out it makes her look like a cotton ball with legs. You know those sheep figurines that are all puffy? The little lambs are so soft and adorable. They were very small.

My Aunt Terri and Melba Jones went out with us to see the Murphy farm and the new sheep. This is also Adalines first visit to the barn.

Corbin likes the sheep but doesn't know how he feels about the momma. She is a little bigger than him.

Mother's Day

2009-06-03T11:15:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm quite behind on my blog. So, I'll do a little catch up.

Mother's day is always wonderful. We get to remember why we enjoy our new life's calling and how it blesses us, and how we can do better.
This year we dedicated little Adaline to the Lord. This is a ceremony we have at church that allows us to state in front of the whole church that we are committing our family to a relationship with Christ. We commit to pray and nurture our children to serve the Lord as well.

After church we had my mother and family over for a wonderful meal. Here is the salmon that we grilled. Wow! It turned out great. I'll definently do this again.

Later we went to the Murphy's to celebrate with Matt's mother. Melanie (matt's twin sister) was in town from Memphis to spend time with Carolyn and see baby Addie. I'll post pictures of her visit.

I love my mother and am so blessed to have an opportunity to be a mother to my two darlings.

A trip to the hospital

2009-05-27T19:33:00.001-07:00

My little darling was in the hospital last week. Monday afternoon when I came home from working at church I just felt like she wasn't herself. She slept all day and I could tell that she was having a belly ache. That night when I fed her she was pretty hot. So Tuesday morning I took her temp and it was 101.4 I didn't think that it was especially high, but called the doctor's office just to cover my bases. They wanted me to bring her in right away. Because she had only turned six weeks old that day they were very concerned. Dr. Norton was very concerned and told me that although she is on the border line (6weeks) she was still too young to have a fever this high. A fever means that there is virus in her body but with one so little you just don't know what kind. She had no other symptoms that morning, so my gut said lets take her home and watch her for the day. He gave me no instructions just watch for fussiness and her temp. The next morning we came for a follow up and her temp had not gone down. She was fussy and a touch me not. Which I feel like was a symptom of a headache.
We took her to Kosairs to get tested. With babies it could be nothing but it could be Meningitis. We arrived at the ER around 1pm and Addie went through all kinds of tests. They did admit us to a room by 9pm. Wow, I am so thankful Matt could be there with me. It was hard seeing them poke and prod her. Matt went with her to get her spinal tap. All the preliminary tests came back clear but they told us we would have to stay for 48 hours to get the results of the blood and spinal culture.
Her initial blood culture showed bacteria growth-very bad. But they said that they couldn't tell whether it was a contaminate (something had gotten into the culture) or a staff bacteria. Praise the Lord it was a contaminate and her second culture came back fine. We were able to come home Saturday.
The Lord is so good. He was there with Addie and Matt and I. As parents it is so difficult to see your child hurting and not be able to help them . Of course the best help you can offer your child is prayer. God was there comforting Matt and I and truly gave me a peace about her tests. Thank you for all your prayers. Those who were able to come see us in the hospital were a blessing. It is so lonely sitting there all day with your child. I really appreciated all the calls and visits.

My sweet pea

Her little bed looked like a cage.
She was on a heart monitor the whole time.

Her and daddy. Her coos and smiles just melt his heart and mine.

The Lord is my Shepherd, he is there to comfort, heal and guide us.amen

Blimp

2009-05-14T19:40:00.000-07:00

The Friday Of Oaks Donnie(Amanda's husband) invited us to see the MetLife Blimp upclose and personal. I thought this would be fun. being outside, and free. Amanda was there and we had a great time. Corbin really liked it. We met at Boman Field and got to drive across the airfield. How cool! Addie child out in the sling and slept almost the whole time. The crew that flies the blimp was there to answer any and all questions.

Here Corbin was pulling the rope to move the blimp. He was having so much fun doing what the big kids did.

Here's Corbin in the cockpit. He actually got to ride in it. He and Amanda were flying buddies.

Look at my little guy. It was a bit cool and damp but a great morning. When Corbin was finished with the blimp he ran around in the tall grass. What a fun day.

Thanks Amanda and Donnie!!

Second Birthday with Red Boots

2009-05-08T10:57:00.001-07:00

Here's my little two year old. He has grown 6 inches over this last year and I don't know how many pounds. His Birthday is April 27th. He was born on a friday at 10:15pm. 7lb. 20.5"

We had a small party for the little guy. He did invite one friend(Eli). He and Eli had a ball playing on the slide and running around in the yard. Corbin has been watching Nemo about everyday for months so we had Nemo balloons and cake.

Here's Corbin in the box of one of his presents. He could entertain himself with anything.

This was also Addie's first birthday party. She slept through the whole thing.

Corbin really liked his cake this year. His little eyes lit up when he saw Nemo. He didn't blow out the candle though he just grabbed the nearest cupcake to him and bit right into the top with all the icing.

You can see from cousin Abby and Aunt Amy's reaction what Corbin thought about the cupcake. He was in sugar shock. His face was so funny. We laughed and said yum. He took another bite. He must have decided that that was not for he because he put the cupcake back and walked away. He liked us singing to him but did not blow out the candle. He's so funny.

But by far his favorite gift was the shinny red mud boots he got from Grandma and Grandpa Murphy. They bought them for when he comes over and helps with the sheep in the barn. What a great gift. He wore them around the house for the next couple of days. We have gone to the barn and broken them in. He loves being with Grandpa working at the farm. The last time we went to the farm Grandpa taught him how to hammer in a nail. As long as Corbin does not hammer at home we are okay.

I love my two year old. There is no way to express how much I love my first born son. Addie isn't quite old enough to share those special feelings but being a mother is amazing. With mother's day coming up and being a brand new mom of a new daughter these feelings are swelling. Corbin is so full of life and enthusiasm. We enjoy every day with him. I am so blessed.

Lately he has been showing these crazy facial expressions and lunging forward holding up one of his arms. It is so funny. The picture I posted of him eating the corn on the cob is a good example of what he does with his eyes. And of course in his mind if he closes his eyes and he cannot see you then obviously you cannot see him either. This is very helpful when he is getting in trouble. He can disappear whenever he wants. :)

What a boy!

Best Buddies

2009-05-05T17:00:00.001-07:00

As friends we always want our children to like each other and want to play. Well Michelle and I are doubly blessed. Eli and Corbin are the best of friends and we get to worship together at church. It is so amazing to see our boys play. They just light up whenever we get to visit together and whenever they see each other in church. It is so cool that they are only weeks apart. Corbin and Eli have just turned two so they have moved up to the two year old class at church. They love playing together.

This is Eli, Corbin, and Jenna(rhonda's girl)

Eli had better watch out. Corbin is honing in on his girl.

This is at Eli's 2nd birthday party

The boys playing at our house

No matter where they are they cling to each other and I just think that is precious.

Random pics

2009-04-21T12:56:00.001-07:00

Well, I am a home body anyway, but now I feel like the world is standing still. I mean two weeks and nearly no activity out of the house. It's not that I feel like going out, but I am getting a little antsy. No really, I feel great. My body is nearly returned, although they strongly discourage all activity for six weeks. It will be nice to excersize and resume all normal activity, but still four more weeks. Baby Addie is great! she sleeps for four hours at night, feeds, and then sleeps another couple. So, I do get to rest. The day is super busy with little Corbin. He really misses playing outside. I cannot let him go out alone and it is too cold to take the baby out. He has to wait till daddy gets home to go out and play. We have had visitors here and there. The church and now friends have been bringing meals. We are so blessed and feel so loved!
Here are few pics. Enjoy.

After her 2nd sponge bath

Peepaw and Great Aunt Terri Jones
Corbin cuddles during a movie

Wow! My new baby sister!

The trip home from the hospital

Easter

2009-04-18T15:27:00.001-07:00

This Easter was so special because of our new family memeber. All three of us are in love with our new baby girl. Baby girl and I stayed home this morning while dad and Corbin went to church. They are so handsome dressed up.

Love my little family!

Here Comes Baby A

2009-04-13T16:29:00.000-07:00

Monday, April 6th I had my doc appointment to see if everything was going okay with the baby. (you know since I was 6 days over due). Everything looked great and doc said that after our exam I would probably go into labor that night. Yes, indeed. I had cramping all evening and at 12:30am labor woke me. I walked around the house for a little bid trying to countractions and deciding if that is what was really happening. I had contractions every 4 to 7 min. Yes, this truly was labor. I called my mom at 1am to come over. You could tell that she really would rather wait if I wasn't sure, but I said yes, I need you here. She arrived at 2am with Lydia. Lydia was going to stay the night and be here for Corbin when he woke up. At this point I had to really breath through every contraction and my back would really seize up and tighten. They were 2-3min apart and 45-60 seconds long. Labor was coming fast and steady. No time to relax, or pack to leave. I called Amy (my doula) and she talked me through a few contractions and she met us at the hospital. We left for the hospital a little after 3am.
Here is matt's expression when it was time to go.

Here was Corbin's expression when he found out where and why we were gone.

Just kidding.

My water broke in the hospital parking lot. I was 5cm when we arrived. Labor was still fast and steady and painful. By this point I couldn't get the pain in my back to subside, no matter what I did. So, this is what they call back labor. By 7ish they checked me again and I was only 7cm. Addie was unreactive. How could she be so still during all of the laboring going on. I was overwhelmed and exhausted by this point and needed help. After the epidural my body relaxed and let go of all that tension. They let me rest for over an hour and then we were ready to push. I pushed for 45 min and Addie was born. We could not believe the long dark hair! First a red head now this dark hair! I am so happy with my little girl. : ) I'm in love.

Dinner out

2009-04-13T16:24:00.001-07:00

Before Addie was born we went to Mark's Feedstore for a little family night out. Matt was trying to get Corbin to show his muscles here.

This is how much Corbin likes his corn on the cob. Life is good.

He had a great time and mommy was happy to have dad take care of dinner.

The two weeks before Addie was born Matt really made a huge effort to help out with Corbin and meals. He would fix breakfast everyday and many nights help or take care of dinner. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful husband.

Adaline Lynn Murphy

2009-04-13T16:08:00.000-07:00

It's a Girl!

10:14am

April 7th, 2009

8 pounds 21.5 inches

Can you believe all of that dark hair!

Happy Birthday!

It's a Girl! AWWW.... happy mamma.

cool as a cucumber

2009-03-31T11:30:00.001-07:00

"I'm a rock star!"

My little buddy, He is so full of life and energy. I have not really pushed him to use words but he knows more than he lets on. One day I gave him a fig newton and he walks over to Matt and says, "Wanna bite?" He has been using his sign language more. Whenever he wants ( more) and may even say (please). Otherwise he uses his own signs and I let him.
I have gotten his Easter outfit and while shopping found these sunglasses. He loves them.

Cool as a cucumber he walks around the house thinking he's big stuff like his daddy. What a little Matt.

The happy little family

2009-03-27T20:15:00.003-07:00

We went to the Armstrong wedding last Friday and thought nothing of taking Corbin with us. Um, mistake. It was my turn to watch over Corbin since Matt missed the last wedding. But anyway Corbin is such a big boy it couldn't be hard. : ) Well, we were in the balcony, blessing for us. Corbin ran around and explored while we waited for the wedding to being. However, when the wedding did begin he wasn't going to sit quiet. He just cried and cried. It was so strange, I couldn't get him to quit. We left the room. I missed all but the last 2 min. Poor little boy. You can tell even at the end of the evening he was not a happy camper.

Corbin's favorite thing to do outside right now is pick up sticks. If I don't watch he brings them in the house. He is so full of life. I have been intentionally spending lots of time with Corbin this week. Soon his time with mommy will be shared.

No activity. In fact this week has been pretty calm. I want to hang in there at least till Sunday so that my doctor will be back from vacation. We have the nursery all ready. Corbin is moved out into his new room and all his stuff has been moved out. He loves his new fire truck room. In fact he has not even stepped foot in the nursery since his move. Wow! I thought there might be a little confusion but he is totally happy in his new room. So baby A has everything ready. Clothes in drawers, receiving blankets out, and baby swing ready. I am ready!

hair cut

2009-03-21T05:26:00.001-07:00

I wanted to take a picture of Corbin and his new haircut, but he decided this would be a fun game to let mommy chase him around the house.

I think he would drink/eat about anything if he was able to use a straw.

My cutie pie!

Lambies

2009-03-19T17:49:00.001-07:00

Here a few pictures of the new additions to the Murphy farm. Corbin is so fun to watch in the barn. He gets so excited. There were twins born on the Murphy farm last week. They are doing great, as well as mommy lamb. Here are a few pictures I could get in the flurry of the activity.

corbin wouldn't touch the lamb

he liked them better on the other side of the fence

Grandpa is the best in Corbin's eyes

I enjoy going to see the Murphy's. We have so much fun. What a place to have childhood memories.

Husbands

2009-03-17T12:44:00.000-07:00

When warm weather hits Matt's itch is to dig around in his garage. Forget the other projects that need to be finished, his garage is calling his name. So the past few days he has been tinkering around and "organizing"/"Cleaning it up" Because he can't do the other things with a messy garage. Anyway part of this flurry of activity involved him mounting some cabinets and confiscating some cabinets to put on his wall.

The confiscated cabinets are the ones I will draw your attention to. If you have been to our house the basement is a bit of a cave where all non-matched and not sure what to do with furniture and other "stuff" is taken until better use. The previous owners had this inset cabinet that Gretchen so rightly named the church basement cabinets. Anyway Matt decided that these would be perfect for out in the garage. I didn't really care, however, there is now a hole where the cabinets were (no paneling to cover the studs) and all the junk we had hid in the cabinets are now stacked willy nilly around the basement. Yeah, no follow through for what he will do with stuff, just I need this so everything else can sit out.

Is your husband like this?

Any bets on how long or where the stuff will go? or who will end up doing something with it?

Maple Syrup Festival

2009-03-09T10:33:00.000-07:00

This saturday was an amazing day to be outdoors. We went with my family to the Maple Syrup Festival in Salem/Henryville. The weather was perfect, the space was crowded, and the company was fantastic. Depending on your age you may be attracted to the festival for different reasons. My dad likes the bluegrass music, the girls like to walk around to the shops, my mom likes running into homeschool families, matt and I like the food, and we found that Corbin likes the games and animals(ranging from dogs to horses)

This was Corbin's favorite game, the little ball was just his size.

Matt chased after Corbin most of the day. Why is it that boys have this urge to be king of the hill. Here Corbin at one decides that this is what he must do. He ended up taking a nose dive down the back side of the mud mound.

Like father, like son. "Just give me a fork. I like it all."

We had a great time together. After a day of walking and eating maple cotton candy, I needed a rest. Swollen ankles.

We went by the Reid's for dinner after. It was wonderful to have some time to visit. We hadn't had time to visit with just them since they moved in dec. That is unacceptable to me. Eric grilled and Tracey made corn on the cob, baked potatoes, and strawberry shortcake. Yumm! What a way to treat a pregnant lady. LOL.

thanks trace

Check-up

2009-03-05T11:24:00.000-08:00

Well, the doctor had good news today.

1cm
70% engaged
head down

Yeah!!!!!!

Babymoon

2009-03-05T10:35:00.000-08:00

What a fun trip we had this weekend. Not the high-energy see everything get away , but the stay in bed and eat all day get away. I am usually too antsy to take a relaxing vacation but when you are 8 months pregnant it feels more natural.

Matt was so good. He wanted me to choose everything and let me set the pace for our three day trip. He never pushed or acted bored. Which I am sure I would if the shoes were switched. I forgot my camera at home so I'll try and paste some pictures from the internet

We stayed at the Cornerstone Inn downtown Nashville, Indiana. Matt reserved the spire. So our room is that point. Cool. It had a two man jacuzzi! Wow! As I said we spent most of our time napping and eating. The spring season in Nashville doesn't start until next weekend so we were in this ghost town. It really did feel like a movie set instead of a real town. Monday afternoon we arrived, settled in, and I took a nap while Matt read. He is reading those classics that we have in our library. He finished Dr. and Mr. Hyde while we were in Nashville.

Next we were off to find any food or entertainment they may have on a monday night. Not much open. We found a wine tasting, yum. No food served there. But took home two bottles of Nectar from heaven. :) After a little hunting we decided to go to the Brown co. park lodge, called the Abe Martin. Later we went to the third smallest cinema in the world. The Lotus Blossom was playing and something genius. We saw Changling. Very good. We were the only two in the 25 seat theatre. The other theatres are located in England and somewhere in Asia. Very cool first day

Tuesday was freezing cold. We took our time getting up and slowly getting to walk around town. There were probably 1/4 the shops open as in high season. We warmed our toes for lunch at the hob knob cafe.

Black bean soup hit the spot for me. Then we picked up some teates at the candy store and went back for a nap.
Later that night there was to be some live music at the Muddy Boots Cafe. So we decided to make a progressive dinner out of the evening. The music was folk style. Very nice and relaxing. You could tell all of the artsy fartsy locals had dropped by for a chat, latte, and music. We had the humus, garlic spread and olives with our pita bites. I tried lavender tea and matt had two lattes. He was wired for most of the night.

Our dinner was at Holy Cow and Holy Cow was it gross. This was a steak and fry place. We didn't like any of our food. Luckily we had that appetizer at Muddy Boots. I would not go here if you had to choose. Later the tub and a movie were just what the doctor had ordered. We watched an Alfred Hitchcock movie. Topaz.

Wednesday was much warmer. The town woke up a little bit. There was more movement about. We walked by the last few shops and had lunch at the Sandwich Place it was full of Bobby Knight memorabilia very neat atmosphere.

What a perfect getaway. I couldn't have asked for anything better. We did miss Corbin but who wouldn't.

36 weeks

2009-03-01T16:48:00.000-08:00

yes, I am 36 weeks pregnant. We are going to have 2 children. I am going to be a mom again.

Am I ready? Of course... Gretchen is right in her blog, when we put our life in perspective of God's world/kingdom and not our own then we are always ready. Right? Bad days, tired days, busy days, and wonderful awesome abounding days.

Yes, I am 36 weeks pregnant and not sleeping. Is this God's way of getting our bodies use to getting up with a new baby? A new baby, awww. I can't wait to hold my new baby. I don't have a baby anymore. Corbin is a little boy. Maybe a Neanderthal but not a baby. : )

Yes, I am 36 weeks pregnant and wobbling around. I feel like I have hit that wobble. Everything is awkward to maneuver. I spill things on myself and get my belly wet when doing the dishes and dirty when cooking dinner. I move ever so slowly and don't ask me to roll over in bed in this century. My pants don't fit because they are either too small now or the elastic band doesn't stay on the baby bump anymore but slides down to my hips.

Yes, I am 36 weeks pregnant and getting ready to spend a couple of days away with my honey. Before Corbin was born Matt took me away to St. Louis on what some call a babymoon. You spend that last time before baby. Matt suggested we get away again before baby A. I of course jumped on that idea. Tomorrow we are going to head up to Nashville, IN and stay two nights in a B and B. No big plans. We'll walk around nashville and take a drive around to some of the pretty spots in bean blossom. If it is nice enough outside spend some time at the park for a picnic. I am looking forward to Matt all by myself. No TV, no work, no phone, and for a few days no nearly two year olds. I'll blog about our trip later.

Yes, I am 36 weeks pregnant and the Murphy's lives are about to change forever. Yeah!

Cashing In

2009-02-20T07:00:00.000-08:00

I have already cashed in on one of my scavenger hunt certificates. Matt made me breakfast in bed today. It worked out perfect, and really he had it easy. I wanted powdered donuts and fruit. Corbin was still sleeping so I got to just relax for breakfast and lay there after. So nice to enjoy a lazy morning. What a sweet husband. He also included a mushy card. AAWWWW.

Here Corbin is enjoying a few donuts of his own.

The Valentines Couple

2009-02-20T06:58:00.000-08:00

Here are the "Amazing Love Race" winners. : )

Time for your nap

2009-02-20T06:53:00.000-08:00

On the days Corbin believes he does not need to take his nap he will run under the island in the kitchen. He thinks he is so funny and clever. In many regards he is correct. Now that I am a bit round it is hard to nab him when he runs under here.

He has so much personality. I love my son.

2009 picture posting

2009-02-17T18:28:00.000-08:00

Here you are. Any photo I have for 2009! :)

http://melon02.winkflash.com

Valentines Day

2009-02-16T08:36:00.000-08:00

What a fun day! I did have to teach Sat for project ahead but on the way home I set up our scavenger hunt. With a little help from Tracey I made an "Amazing Love Race" patterned after the "Amazing Race". Every year Matt and I have taken turns making a scavenger hunt for the other on Valentines Day. We have done this since 2000 when we started dating. It is so cool to know we have been doing this for nine years. So, you know me and my memory. I counted the years and this is my year.

For the Amazing Love Race I gave Matt clues that made him drive around Corydon to find his clue and sometimes treat. I did not have him complete any roadblocks, but it was fun watching him go in and get clues. Some places he had to go in where the movies, taco bell, ups, dairy queen. I was so excited to set this one up this year.

Matt had asked what I wanted to do on Valentines. I told him I'd like to pick the movie to rent and he make dinner. Wow, did he rise to the occasion. He acted like he had not even thought about it by lunch sat. but after we got back from our scavenger hunt he started dinner. Corbin and I played while he cooked. He looked too intense to chat with. : )

He made chicken and beef kabobs that he grilled, cheddar rice pilaf, pasta salad, rolls, watermelon jello, and berry medley pie. Wow! Everything tasted fabulous! He had the table set and the candles lit when he called Corbin and I to dinner. What a sweet heart.

Something funny... after Matt completed his scavenger hunt he handed me some clues for a scavenger hunt. He said that I had done the scavenger hunt the last two years in a row, told you my memory was bad. Honestly when I was counting the years I couldn't remember what we had done the year before. I didn't think to ask Matt I just knew it was my year this year. When I had gotten home from placing the clues and teaching I was so excited and told him so that he didn't have the heart to tell me that he had made one as well. So we each had a scavenger hunt this year. I told him he still had to make one next year.

Matt made me a scavenger hunt where he gave me a picture and then if I found where that picture was located in town I got a gift certificate. For example, he took a picture of the pineapple on Magdelana's sign and the certificate was for a back rub. I had ten clues. Fun.

We rented Maid of Honor with Patrick Dempsy. It was cute.

What a good day! Valentines Day is special for Matt and I because he proposed Valentines 2001. We have fun together making up inexpensive or lavish scavenger hunts and activities for the evening. This year he got me an adorable ladybug rug that I put in the bathroom and a ladybug garden stake that I can't wait to get out and mess with. I got him a subscription to Log Cabin magazine. I love Matt!

I'll post a picture of the handsome/big bellied couple tomorrow.

Ladies and Gentleman...Boys and Girls of all ages...

2009-02-09T12:03:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Circus!

Corbin and Jenny at their first circus. Jenny loved the elephants and Corbin loved his hot dog.

Corbin did better than I thought he would. He enjoyed all the lights and sounds. He liked the elephants and dogs, but that lasted a whole 30 seconds. He was very happy to play with the foldable seats and walk in between Jenny and Matt, back and forth.

They gave out free Shriner's hats. Corbin is lookin' the part.

Daddy let me have a bite... I'm patiently waiting. He had his first hot dog in a bun with mustard.

Corbin's first circus. He was such a big boy this evening, wanting to walk everywhere himself. I didn't realize how much I miss my baby till I see all of these things like sleeping in a toddler bed, no sitting on my lap, and not letting me hold him all together. I guess I'll have to have another baby. :)

Jenny and Baby A's first circus. I have decided I think the baby will be a boy.

Did Corbin like the clown Potsie? Well, he didn't not like him. He was a bit indifferent to the entertainment. When he is a little older we'll have to let him on the elephant rides.

Jenny had gotten free tickets and took us to the Circus with her. What a sweetie. We had a great time. The elephant routine was my favorite. Bo stood on her front legs spinning on this rotation top with her back legs up! Wow! He even still had his tusks.

The Shriners is a small circus but very good.

cuddle bug

2009-02-05T12:20:00.001-08:00

Corbin never does this. He is such a touch me not, very independent(like you know who...). Sometimes I can get him to sit on my lap to watch one of his shows but usually he is up playing and moving around. This weekend Matt and I were watching a movie and he wanted to lay down with me on the couch and lay under the blanket. AAAWWW... I love him.

Sleeping in my toddler bed

2009-02-02T08:45:00.000-08:00

Praise the Lord! Last week during the stormy weather we took the plunge with Corbin and he has been sleeping in his "big boy bed". We put his new toddler bed and placed it in the spot where the crib had been. Monday night was the first sleep in his bed.

Corbin has done very well. He likes his bed and sleeps in it for me. Matt still thinks he can throw him in bed and leave and he'll happily stay in bed and fall asleep. Everytime Matt has done this for his naps he gets out of bed and comes down stairs. I have been taking 15-30 min with him this week and reading him stories, singing, and laying by him till he goes to sleep. This extra time is well worth it for me. He still has been sleeping 2-3 hours for his nap. I am so happy.

Corbin loves his new bed. But we have learned that he can open his door and leave whenever he wants. : )

Murphy Bed and Breakfast

2009-01-30T11:18:00.000-08:00

You may now post our Murphy Bed and Breakfast on the Southern Indiana Bed and Breakfast Registrar. LOL!

We have had a great time with the Guernsey's. Here are a few pics of the boys having a ball.

Michelle couldn't get enough of the food network and the boys kept each other pretty busy running round and round the main floor. Eli mastered the steps here in one day.
I say we were the bed and breakfast but Michelle and Aaron cooked and cleaned in the kitchen most of the time. It was awesome to sample some of their specialties. We had Poppy seed Chicken Wed. and Power Burgers (their version of Rachel Ray's). Here is the burger. Oh, and this morning Aaron fixed French Toast Casserole. Now I did fix breakfast thurs. and helped out as much as they would let me. I think Aaron was antsy not having his normal "to do" things.

Among eating cookies and running around the boys had a blast in the tub this morning. They were adorable pics but thought it wise not to post on the Wild Web, I mean the WWW.

Well, our guests have gone back to their home and Michelle had to go in to the office for awhile. What a fun sample of our one day to come B and B.

Oh, the weather outside is frightful...let it snow

2009-01-29T11:14:00.000-08:00

Yes, the weather outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful.

Matt truly enjoyed making a fire and I enjoyed sitting in front of it.

We are so blessed being neighbors with the hospital. We didn't loose power at all, but everyone around us did.

While many good mothers took their children out to play in the snow on tues. (the first of the beautiful snow) I couldn't bear the idea of trying to bundle up corbin and myself and trying to play in the snow. However, Wed. Matt took little hesitant Corbin out to play. Corbin wasn't really sure he wanted to explore this new white playground that was mushy and coooold.

We did not have a sled but Matt made a sled out of our trash can lid and a rope. Cobin had lots of smiles and a little fear behind each one. Where are we going? Do I have to touch that stuff you call snow?

Look at the icicles off the grill and deck. We have had snow since Monday.

Corbin liked the idea of playing outside, but in the end decided he will wait till some warmer weather came our way before he asks to go out again.

We have had a good result of the storm. The Guernsey's have stayed with us for over a day now. They came Wed. right before lunch. We have been cooking, playing games and watching TV. It's like we are in high school, yet a little different. :) they will be here again tonight. They live in Lanesville and have no power. So they have been crashing here. Corbin thinks it is the best thing in the world.

Enjoy the snow and your family being at home. We will join the land of the living soon.

(I have not been out of the house since monday morning. This week has been a blur)

Blob

2009-01-24T13:10:00.000-08:00

I really don't like this blob state that has come over me. Usually I feel so energetic and full of life. No spunk left today. This morning I lead our sack lunch outreach ministry, there ended up being four of us, which I was very thankful for. That takes about two hours to make 50-75 lunches and then deliver them to three apartment complexes in Corydon.
Matt kept Corbin out of the cold. They ended up going to Pierce's bitty ball game. I heard Corbin enjoyed the part where he could actually touch a ball.
This afternoon held a trip to WalMart (you know how it is on saturdays) and a few chores. Now I thought I would blog a little, but hope as I am sitting here in all my blob glory that I haven't brought this happy mood on anyone else. ha ha

Yesterday, Corbin and I spent half the day with Gretchen, Pierce, and Hope! What fun! It was nice to sit and visit with Gretchen and let Corbin enjoy some company of his own. It was a very nice day. Corbin did fall asleep on the way home and the 30 min. was enough for him to decided he was not going to nap when we got to his bed. He moaned for 45 min. Then I decided I'd had enough and got him out of bed. He did fine though and did not fuss or whine the rest of the evening.

Thanks for the encouragement with my last blog. You know you are suppose to take things one day at a time and just do your best but encouragement is always welcome :)

Monday Thoughts

2009-01-19T07:24:00.000-08:00

Well, the energetic second trimester seems to be over. I have been just so drained and tired last week and so far this one too. I am 30 weeks along and the baby weighs about 3 pounds right now. The size of a head of cabbage. I love the food comparisons from babycenter.com. I have been cleaning and so gunghoe these last few months but that is at a dead stop right now. I need to mop my kitchen floor today but that seems like just too much work.

Corbin has had his own issues this past week, throwing these senseless fits. Anything he doesn't like will set him off into crying. And being my perky self right now I am not being very patient with him. It is so difficult since I can't really talk with him about things. He has been jabbering like crazy but not any sentences. What do you do? I do not want him to get into this pattern of behavior. Is it just a phase? I have tried a variety of ways to approach this behavior. I know that he must be dealing with things inside himself but when you can't communicate it's hard. During the good moments I have tried the loving approach, but Corbin has been active and independent for so long he doesn't like to rock or cuddle much. He has also been very picky with his food. Not eating much through the day. He has a good breakfast but after that it is small amounts.

Anyway, I guess I will be preparing Corbin for his new room and bed as soon as Matt gets his room finished and painted. Hopefully by the end of the month. It is probably time to get out the infant car seat/carrier and be preparing for baby A. : )

A look at New Year's

2009-01-15T10:39:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve was rather calm. JR and Kim came around 9pm and Bucky showed up after the Uof L game a little later. We played on the Wii that JR brought along. It was fun watching the guys be silly. Bucky killed everyone in boxing, except me. I was the last one, so he was a little tuckered out. He knocked me out the first round then I came back and beat him. We also played a couple of old games like Super Mario and Dodgeball. It was great!

By 1am everyone had gone and we were in bed shortly after. How New Year's has changed now that we are 30. :)

More, Mommy...

2009-01-14T18:37:00.000-08:00

Corbin is at this stage right now where he likes to mumble things. It is almost like he has something in his mouth. He won't open his lips, he talks with them shut. At first when he started this I thought he had food in his mouth that he hadn't chewed and swallowed yet. But, no he is just being Corbin. It must be that weird gene he got from his dad. :)

This picture made me think of that.

Corbin loves straws. So anytime we have a drink around that has a straw he's jonesn' to have some. This is on the way back from nana's. He was so cute I had to take a couple of photos. Maybe it was a mommy withdrawal, being away from him all day.

slideshow 2008

2009-01-13T12:44:00.000-08:00

A Day at the Museum

2009-01-12T19:16:00.000-08:00

JR and Kim invited us to join them for a day at the museum. What a treat! They are so knowledgeable of the cultural options in our town. :)

Kim suggested this adorable place for lunch. It is called The Cafe. It is off Broadway by Louisville Stoneware. We had great food. Matt picked the art deco sandwich with a cup of chili. Since he likes guaco this was a winner for him. I picked a salad instead of soup and also the chicken salad sandwich with a side of fruit salad, delish. Kim picked the dill tomato soup with he chicken salad sandwich. But poor JR, he opted for the hot brown. Yeah, I know. Should be safe in Louisville, huh? No. It looked like a gravy soup mass on top of two small slivers of turkey flanked with hard, hard toast. Anyway, all of us full.... off to the Ali museum.

JR and Kim were given these tickets to the Muhammad Ali Museum for free. Wow! We had Mom watch Corbin and had a day out. The museum was much better than I thought. Being as I am not a boxing fan, I was not thrilled with the idea of going to the museum , but rather getting to go out with the Ramsey's. There were two full floors of exhibits.

Here is my hand in Ali's.

They had a section of the museum set up as a practice ring. There was a shadow box, a punching bag that showed you the pressure you would feel after a direct hit, small punching bags you see here (boy it is much harder than it looks), and these large punching bags.

Ali's daughter was giving a tutorial here in this part. Through a video of course.

Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee...

This was a good day. Thanks Ramsey's!

The mystery item/ Seeing Anna

2009-01-11T18:59:00.000-08:00

Well, the mystery item is a pampered chef micro cooker filled with chicken I had been marinading. Apparently I had pushed buttons for the convection oven instead of the microwave. At one point I smelled something melting, but did not make the connection that it was my meal in the microwave. There were other things going on and nothing seemed to be smoking or going wrong. So, I called Matt in for dinner and put that pile of black melted mess on his plate. With this real confused look, he asked what it was. At this point I couldn't help but burst out laughing. I had to confess what had happened to our delicious chicken meal. I ended up making this beritoli meal. Thank he Lord for quick freezer meals when life does not go as planned. :)

I have been able to see Anna twice during her stay this holiday. Yeah!!

Sat. Jan. 3rd Matt, Corbin and I went down to Lexington to meet up with Anna,

Antione, and Aurelian. Amy, Johnson, Windom, Wesley, and Dalton were also able to hang out with us. Lexington (where Amy lives, Anna's older sister) is about a halfway point between Anna's parents place and Corydon. So, whenever we can I'll meet her there to save on drive time. This time we were able to hang out as families. Anna's younger siblings (Amber, Aram, and Alisa) also came and volunteered to keep the little ones so we could go out as adults and visit. How nice is that! They are fabulous. Amber had taken the boys outside and wore them out, if you'll remember that was a very unusually warm day; and Alisa put shaving cream and green food coloring on the table and let the boys draw and play in it. :) She is so creative. The boys had a great time and we were able to have some time with anna. The girls went out to the health food store and the book store. The guys went bowling and we meet up for dinner at this Indian restaurant. It was fabulous! What a good day. Selfishly I regret not getting Anna all to myself but it was worth the time we had. Anyway, that day my battery on the camera was exhausted and I had not checked it before I left.

So, I was blessed to get to see her again. Mom and Louise (Anna's mom) are good friends and whenever Anna comes in town we make the trip down to see the whole family. So, Mom offered to drive down to lexington the second time. Thurs. Jan. 8th (the day anna flew home) we were able to see anna one last time before she flew off home. The pictures below are of that day.

Here are a couple of photos at the end of the day. Aurelian has gained a second wind in lou of getting to fly on a plane and go home to see his daddy. Corbin is not sure he wants to sit by Aurelian. Nana's arms seem much safer. :)

Aurelian is so cute. He does so well with his English. Anna said the funniest thing is to hear how his speech has become Kentuckian while they have been here. He has acquired a southern drawl to things like door and more. He is so funny.

Corbin is eating a cookie and Aurelian is eating pizza. What fun to enjoy visiting a new place. "Mom would never give me this kind of food at home."

Anna and I are both due at the same time. She is so cute! She has the most adorable maternity clothes. Her pants have a belt on them. I have not seen that over here.

Corbin found this hat in the boys playroom. He had so much fun playing with new toys. This reminds me of Woody on toy story

This is Amy's boys ( Wesley and Dalton)

Mystery Item

2009-01-06T13:21:00.001-08:00

Can you guess what you are seeing? I'll give you a hint. I took this picture in the kitchen.

Give up?....Are you sure you don't have a guess? I'll post the answer tomorrow. Mystery item

2009-01-04T13:30:00.000-08:00

I have really sensed God's presence this weekend. He must be calling me to Him. I keep singing this song.

MERCY ME LYRICS

"God With Us"

Who are we that You would be mindful of us

what do You see that's worth looking our way

we are free in ways that we never should be

sweet release from the grip of these chains

like hinges straining from the weight my heart no longer can keep from singing.

[chorus]

all that is within me cries

for You alone be glorified

Emmanuel God with us

my heart sings a brand new song

the debt is paid these chains are gone

Emmanuel God with us.

Lord You know our hearts don't deserve Your glory

still You show a love we cannot afford

like hinges straining from the weight my heart no longer can keep from singing. [back to chorus]

Such a tiny offering

compared to Calvary

nevertheless we lay it at your feet. [back to chorus]

[Thanks to Mike for these lyrics]

[ www.azlyrics.com ]

If you have not heard this song by Mercy Me, I would encourage you to give it a listen.

This comes on the heels of being at the doctor Tuesday. If you have not heard, major Praise to Jesus. The placenta which was blocking me from having natural birth early in the pregnancy, has moved up to where it is suppose to be! Yeah! This means that should all else go okay we are on track for a natural delivery. Wow! I am so happy. Tuesday I had my Glucose test and Iron checked at the hospital, which takes an hour. Then we went over to the doctor's office to have the ultrasound and check-up. We had great news from the ultrasound as I already said. The pictures of the baby, fluid, and organs all look great. Later that day they called and said that I failed my glucose test. Boo Ho. Now I have to get retested. This means I have to take the more extensive three hour test where they poke me several times. I asked what the alternative would be to being retested, I would have to check my blood sugar levels everyday as if I were diabetic. That is what the glucose test is, a test to determine whether you have diabetes during pregnancy, which is very common. So, anyway, this news in no way dampered my excitement about the placenta moving, but it does mean I have to go back for a new test. I'll have to get that in this week.

So, next for me is to read up on delivery, which I had put off since we didn't know about a c-section, and find a doula.

God's blessings, I pray you sense God's presence with you this coming year. :)

Happy New Year! 2009

Slowing down

2008-12-29T17:51:00.000-08:00

Whew... I have been such a party pooper these last few days. I have started off okay and then bam! The I am so tired I could crawl in bed right now, wall hits.
I am so blessed to have family and friends to see and spend the holidays with. It truly is rewarding to see how happy we all are to see each other. Of course Corbin steals most of the attention. Which is good, I want him to be wanted at every ones house.
We spent Christmas Eve with the Jones', this use to end with midnight mass all together. However, with child we cannot make it that long. Christmas Day was spent at home for the morning and then at my parents for the rest of the day. (next year we will be spending more time at home with our little family and either another day with my parents or just dinner with them. Friday, we were at the Murphy's which I blogged last about. Friday night Anna called and we met up Saturday in Lexington. Lexington is about a middle point for me and her parents. This is where her sister Amy lives. We meet up there and then spent the afternoon till after dinner with Anna, Antione, Amy, and Johnson. Aurelian is so adorable mixing his french and english. He has been using the english words he knows but they have this cute little french accent to them. He is so precious. Aurelian is a year older than Corbin. They had fun playing in the back yard on such a warm day. Sunday was Christmas with the Smiths (my mothers side of the family). We did manage to get home by 8:45 last night. I put Corbin to bed then myself. Thank the Lord he slept well all of these nights. Naps were another story but not too bad, I guess.
Today has been laundry and yes, the couch.

I have labs early in the morning and another ultrasound by 9am. Pray the placenta has moved and the chambers of the heart are healthy. I'll let you know the stats of the baby! :)

Christmas at the Murphy's

2008-12-26T18:59:00.001-08:00

Carolyn and Keith had us over for the Murphy's Christmas on the 26th. We had an amazing time today. Carolyn had prepared a seven course meal for Christmas Dinner! Wow, is right! She is such a good cook and everything she makes is delicious, but today she really went above and beyond. My favorite was the pecan crusted chicken and the cherry banana bread. Everything was fabulous.

Here are the founders of the feast...

She had a beautiful table set and all of her Christmas china out. She even created a menu to show us what each course would include.

Corbin took his nap during dinner (which we Matt voted to have at 12:30 instead of the normal 5pm). It was nice to have time to talk with Carolyn and Keith and eat dinner without having to make sure Corbin is doing what he is suppose to. :)

Corbin had a ball playing with the cats and opening presents. The toy drill was by far his favorite gift this year. He played with the drill for hours. I don't know how long the batteries are going to last in that thing. Corbin loves going over to Grandma and Grandpa Murphy's. They have all the fun animals (sheep, lama, dog, and cats) and he gets to explore wherever he pleases.

Corbin is wearing a sweater that Grandma knitted. It is so cute...There is a penguin with snowflakes.

Is It In You?

2008-12-25T04:55:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bYI_aOyCn9Y&eurl=http://www.thephilfiles.com/2008/10/21/is-it-in-you/&feature=player_embedded

Check this utube video out.
What would you sound like?

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T04:38:00.000-08:00

Well, Good Morning. :)
We are trying to come up with a Christmas breakfast that is not done throughout the year but one that could be our tradition every Christmas. So, this year we are trying carmel honey buns. As with most projects I undertake, they take more time than I thought. It is one of those rising bread things. I have been up since 6:15 kneading dough and letting it rise. It is nice to be the first one up on Christmas morning. Nice to have some reflection time in the quiet of my kitchen. What a blessed day it is going to be. The sun is just now peeking out and I am almost ready.
Hope they rise and taste good...
Love you guys, Have a great day!

Mark and Corbin

2008-12-23T09:15:00.000-08:00

Friday night when Matt and I went out for my birthday Corbin hung out with Uncle Mark and Aunt Kara. :) They had so much fun. I don't know if the Hubbards had more fun or Corbin. Kara pulled out some horses that Julie and Lauren had and Corbin was set for the evening. Corbin has not stayed there without us before but I think he was glad the had the whole family to himself.

Mark gave Corbin his first Piano lesson

Now he's a professional, any requests?

Buddies for life...

Whisky for Sale

2008-12-22T09:43:00.000-08:00

Bet you didn't see this coming Gretchen?!! :) LOL

A neighbor gave Matt this Blended Scotch Whisky that he brought back from when he was at war. I would guess the man is eighty now, you do the math. Matt and I, not being scotch drinkers have held on to it thinking we would find a place to sell or trade it. Well, that was five years ago and I found it while cleaning the pantry.

So, if anyone is interested or knows where we can sell them let me know. :)

Anyway= here is the info and you can let me know what you think.
Wine- Martini & Rossi
product of Italy, Vermouth Extra Dry, The label is pretty damaged and I can't get anything else off of it. It is slightly larger than the other two bottles.
I did not send the photos for this one but can if you think it will go anywhere.
Blended Scotch Whisky- Usher's Green Stripe
As you can see in the photos it is sealed, maybe during customs,
Produced in Scotland, Proof 80, blended by J&G Stewart Ltd, ESTD 1779, 750ml(25.4 fl oz)
Scotch Whiskies-Cutty Sark
Blended Scots Whisky, 86 proof , 4/5 Quart
Berry Bros&Ruddl, product of Scotland

Can we make bread?

2008-12-21T19:38:00.001-08:00

Here is my cutie prompting me to spend some quality time with him.

Doesn't this look like Matt? Look at those cheeks and jaw.

My little doll baby. I am trying to picture him and a little sister tottering around together. I can't wait. Little Addy, as I constantly call my baby, does summer salts all evening long. I don't notice it near as much when I am busy during the day. 6 months and counting... Wow, March is going to come so fast. I have not even let myself think about labor, especially since we don't know what I am going to have to do, but lately my mind has been taking me to what needs to happen and how I need to prepare for the next three months. They will go so fast. Dec. 30th is our next visit. I have my glaucoma test, iron checked, ultrasound, and doctors visit. Yeah, I know it is going to be an early and long morning. Pray that the ultrasound shows all four healthy heart chambers (which they were not able to see, due to baby movement the first time) and that the placenta has moved to the upper part of my uterus.

As for Corbin, I have a few things I want to research and do with him before the baby comes. After the holidays I want to transfer him into his new room and most of all his new toddler bed. I have expressed apprehension about this already. But I am sure all anxiousness will be for nothing. I would like to reexamine vaccinations. Corbin is nearing the 2 year old mark and all of my research was flagged younger than 2. So, so I want to get vaccines now? Where would I start? What would be beneficial? I'll need to have his well doctor visit soon. I have really neglected Corbin's health reading like I was so faithful with early on. Like, am I suppose to be using a big boy toothbrush now, or still the baby finger brush? I need to do a little toddler research. You think you get things under your belt and then they grow leaps and bounds and things change all over again.

Well, I have rambled long enough. Any advise?

Sing your little heart out

2008-12-20T14:57:00.000-08:00

Lydia was in our church musical last Sunday. She has such a talent for singing. I know she is my baby sister and all but wow. She has really grown in her musical skills this past couple of years. She has such a good voice. Everyone at church was commenting how they can't wait to hear her up with the praise team. :) That's my sister.

She had two solos and a duet. The girl next to her is nine. Lydia is so small for her age.

"A King is Coming to Town"

My camera didn't take very good photos from the back row. Boy oh Boy, Corbin was in no mood to sit quite that night. We were in the back row and still had to leave the sanctuary with him. Matt helped a lot.

Oh, Lydia is the blond in the pink shirt to the left.

Shopping Day

2008-12-19T21:28:00.000-08:00

What a fun day out with my sisters! We went all over town. The spend thrift that I am... looking for deals anywhere to be found we began our day at the Goodwill. What? Corbin won't know the unpackaged presents from the newly bought. LOL. So our day began. I guess I need to remind anyone who did not leave the house today that it did rain. My knees to toes where soaked and my hair not the same as when I fixed it before I left home. :) But Corbin was with Aunt Lizzy and the other three sisters groggily got in the volvo to being our full shopping day.
You know being out in Corydon all of my city visits must be intentional. So I did not have any of the gifts that you stop by for on your way home from work with no kids. Usually I stop and get things months before Christmas as I see sale adds and specials. So, I had a lot of shopping to do today.
As I said we started at Goodwill-only found one board book, hit Big Lots, the closing Kmart in Clarksville, and Once Upon a Childhood. These were my hoping for a deal spots. I did score at Once Upon a Child. We also went to Bass Pro and Lowes (guess who that was for), Toys R Us, and Sears. Just in the nick of time, actually 30 min. late, we were back on the road and it was 3:45pm. All day only one state. I thought we would make it to "the mall" but nay, time eluded us. ;)
It was a fun day on the shopping seen. Terrible busy but I am sure not like tomorrow will be. Now to hide all the booty till I can get it wrapped.
The rush to get home was due to celebrating my birthday. We went to applebees (best ribs in town) and saw Yes Man. Jim Carey was hilarious. I was not in the mood to cry all evening so opted not to see 7 pounds. Nothing sounded terribly interesting but I was really wanting an evening out. Yes man was good. There was language and some sexual crudeness that was close to ruining the movie for me. The packed theater of 13 year olds (we were the oldest in the theater) was way too young for such humor. I am a prude but happy to be so. Very funny movie.
Had to make dressing/stuffing late so here I am getting my blog in before bed, so it still counts as friday.

31 YEARS AND STILL KICKING!

2008-12-18T11:12:00.000-08:00

Does this look like the face of a 31 year old woman? Well, today is the day I have to roll the year over. Matt made me breakfast and I was able to just relax in the tub this morning, although prego belly makes some movement a little challenging. :)
I think back to what my mother was like at my new age. She had two children: myself-12, Adam-10, and a baby less than a year. She did some babysitting at home for a little extra money and took care of the lot of us.
Wow! I can't imagine having a 12 and 10 yr old right now. It just shows how old I'll be when my children get older.
Life is great! God is so good and always provides what you need when you need it.

sept 2008

Sept 2008

Dec 2008

New years 2003

Sept 2008

Christmas Party

2008-12-17T07:52:00.000-08:00

What a fun night! Thanks everyone for coming and making merry. :)

I know we already have some posts for the party but I wanted to include those photos of Tracey on the drums and Eric on the guitar. It was so much fun watching everyone sing and play. To bad I had a sore throat and couldn't embarrass myself. LOL.

Right before dinner

Rock Band with the crew :)

What a fun time.

Merry Christmas!

The Christmas Tree

2008-12-16T08:10:00.001-08:00

Every year the Murphy's go to a tree farm and cut our own live tree for the holiday. This year we went to Meyer Tree Farm outside of Greenville. We usually go to Hubers but we thought we'd try something closer. This new farm was not the Huber's that we like. No hayride to the tree. No hot cider after. But it was closer and cheaper. We took our own cider and had a nice little hike out to find the perfect tree. It took us to the edge of the farm, but we found an acceptable tree. :)

Corbin had a ball just walking around in the tall grass. He was so funny. Falling down and getting up.

This always puts us in the mood for Christmas. We have cookies and listen to christmas music as we put our tree up. This also kicks off the decorating, cleaning, and cooking that gets us ready for our annual christmas party. More on that tomorrow...

Let's take a look back...

2008-12-15T17:02:00.000-08:00

Let's take a look back at thanksgiving. Thanksgiving day we always celebrate with the Jones'.

This evening we were able to celebrate in Terri, Melba, and Mary Alice's newly remodeled kitchen. They had provided most of the meal, which was fabulous. I brought the relish tray.

Here you can see all four of us. :)

We also were able to have dinner with my mothers side of the family Friday.

Matt's parents went down to be with Melanie in Memphis.

Freezing with no freezer

2008-12-13T16:42:00.001-08:00

Well, sometimes it rains and then it pours. Right before thanksgiving our dryer was not working properly. It wouldn't dry anything. So this friend from church came and fixed it. It worked one time then died for good. After looking around for a second hand dryer we got one for free. After going three weeks with hanging clothes on racks it was so nice to not have cardboard to dry with. LOL. My parents ended up buying brand new front loaders which, praise God, enabled us to have their old dryer for free. It is fifteen years or more but still works and allows us to not have to purchase one. All this to say..... the day before our christmas party our freezer died. It was a nice big deep freeze. But when you freezer dies you can't just hand the meat on racks like the clothes. :) We searched for a second hand freezer today and found one for a great deal. It is older but for little money. God helped us again. Thank the Lord we did not have to buy a new one.

This little domestic story is for gretchen. :) Two posts in one day. No pictures, but wowsers!

Corbin's first Big Mac

2008-12-13T11:40:00.001-08:00

Corbin and I were out late working at the church. We had a christmas breakfast for the kids Dec. 6th and were trying to get everything ready. Anyway pregnant hungry mama needed food and so did munchkin. McDonald's called our name. After Tracey's big mac story I thought a big mac would be just the thing for us to share. Corbin liked his bites of big mac, but gravitated toward the fries, as all kid do. He loves to dip them in ketchup. He dips them then sucks the ketchup right off. No bite of fry till after a few dips. :)

So now corbin will not go his whole life not having the best hamburger in the fast food industry. :O)

Still Learning

2008-11-06T06:35:00.001-08:00

Well, after my last post I still am not very familiar with the best way to post. I have learned that if you are going to use any photos you need to upload them first. Anyway this is the rest of October but I just needed a fresh start since I had to redo my photos with each new entry.

The Reids and us went to PFChangs for dinner one night. Wow! Loved it! Here is our dessert, the wall of chocolate.

Matt is such a sweetie. Actor's Theater put on Pride and Prejudice and I really wanted to go. Matt bought us tickets and we had a great date night. Beginning with the Spaghetti Shop our evening started early. Matt got the Italian meatloaf, he would not recommend this dish, and I got the potpourri, a hodge podge of four different dishes. I should have stuck with the one I knew that I would like, but it was fun to try them all.

The play was great! We had great seats on the balcony. In fact, I don' t think there is a bad seat in the house. Matt endured the play and even seemed to enjoy the funny parts. The actors did a fabulous job taking on the quirk's of the characters. Wonderful evening.

Corbin has been struggling to fall asleep when it is time for his nap. I'll hear him playing in his bed flip flopping around and who knows what all... One day I went in to check on him and see if he did fall asleep I found my WWE wrestler in the bed with sheet off and happily asleep.

We do not celebrate Halloween, but our church has an event to reach out to our community and we went to help out. The theme of the carnival was Pioneer. Corbin and I just dressed country. Little Eli Guernsey came as this adorable scarecrow. Corbin loved playing with the yarn fringe on his collar, which is suppose to be the straw. They had such a good time. They are best buds.

There was a clown there with bubbles. Corbin spent at least 45 min. chasing and popping the bubbles he blew. What a great clown. :)

This wraps up October. We had our first ultrasound this week(Tuesday). I love getting to see the baby. It makes the reality of a new baby more concrete for me. I'll scan in the ultrasound pictures next week. The baby is healthy and moving constantly. I do need your prayers. Right now I have placenta previa. Which means that the placenta is completely blocking the exit door. I am praying that it moves to the top of my uterus. If around week 29 of my pregnancy they do another ultrasound and the placenta has not moved I need to prepare for another c-section. This does not cause problems for me or the baby it just means I could not deliver the baby naturally. So please help me pray that the placenta moves.