THE IFFLAND FAMILY

First Toothbrush and Coxsackievirus

2011-05-21T11:33:00.001-07:00

I brushed Tate's teeth for the first time today with her brand spanking new "My Little Pony" toothbrush. She loved it! So glad she feels a little better today. She has had a rough couple of days with high fever and just feeling yucky! Her daddy took her to the doctor yesterday and she was diagnosed with Coxsackievirus. No fun! I'll be glad when she can tell me what's wrong and what hurts! I hate for my baby too be sick and hurt. Here is a picture of Tate not feeling so well and some of her brushing her teeth.

TATE'S 1st PIGTAILS and MY 1st MOTHER'S DAY

2011-05-17T17:58:00.000-07:00

10 mos. old

2011-05-09T14:54:00.001-07:00

Tate is 10 mos. old and into everything! She is doing so many things. She still doesn't like to eat too much unless it's junk, but she loves her milk! She is standing on her own, saying, "What's That" to everything, da-da, ma-ma, Bal (for Bella), bye-bye, etc. Now she helps me put things in the dryer, loves getting into mommy's q-tips and cabinets, and loves sleeping with her buddy (glow-sea horse).

"JUST A SWINGIN'"

2011-03-13T16:42:00.000-07:00

Today, Zach and I bought Tate her first outside swing to put on our back porch. It was so pretty outside, and we couldn't just sit inside and and not enjoy the pretty weather. She loved it, and wanted to swing forever!

CAN ANYONE SAY CHEESE PUFFS?

2011-03-03T13:53:00.000-08:00

Tate and Bella love cheese puffs. I found some Gerber cheese puffs at the store, and they were almost $5.00 for a small can. So, I went to the chip aisle and found a huge Great Value pack for $2.00! Awesome! Just enough for Tate, Bella and I! Tate is really becoming very independent. She wants to feed herself a bottle and solid foods. She loves Cheerios and any finger foods. Finally, today she started eating solids again. She has been sick and not wanting to eat, but today she is all about it again!

HAVE YOU MET BABY TATE? (8 mos.)

2011-02-28T10:36:00.000-08:00

Have you met Baby Tate? Her cousins Camryn and Jacey call her Baby Tate. I think she will always be known as Baby Tate even when she is 16! Tate is 8 months old now and growing too fast! I've def. been really bad about blogging lately b/c Tate is all about being in my lap and not letting her mommy blog. Some new things about Tate since I've blogged last. Tate is crawling around every where. She started at the end of 7 mos, but really got good at it when she turned 8 mos. She says, da da, ma ma, bye-bye while waving, points at objects, has two bottom teeth and another coming in at the top. She claps on command, and loves her favorite video/show, "Choo Choo Soul"! She eats 8 oz. of BM/formula 3-4 times a day, and solids three times a day. I'm making her food which is so much easier than I thought not to mention less expensive. She loves drinking juice out of a straw. Tate is 16 lbs and 10 ozs, pulls up on objects, and loves when I read her books. Nursery at church is finally something she enjoys. Already, she wants to do things on her own. She has to put her bottle in her mouth by herself, and picks up her own food all by herself. Tate is my best friend, smiles all the time, and is the sweetest babygirl I've ever met!

NEW YEARS AND MY NEW EARRINGS!

2011-01-05T18:18:00.001-08:00

Have you seen my new earrings? My mommy and my Mee Mee took me to Claires in the Galleria when I turned 6 mos. to get my ears pierced!! We had so much fun at the mall. Tate did really well after the first 20 minutes of holding her breath and not being a happy camper. Poor baby!! She held onto her Mee Mee for a while. Now I can buy her all kinds of cute little earrings!
On her first New Years, we stayed home and brought the New Years in together. Tate partied in her walker. Daddy and Tate went to sleep around 930p, and I stayed up and watched the ball drop!! I wouldn't have had it any other way!!

BABY DEDICATION AND GATLINBURG FAMILY TRIP

2010-11-27T16:52:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm just a little behind on my posting. I will be updated here in a couple of days. Here are some pictures of Tate's baby dedication and her first Gatlinburg trip with my family. Her Uncle Jarrett prayed over her at church for her dedication. He said the sweetest things, and the sweetest prayer. Thank you Uncle Jarrett.
Our Gatlinburg trip was so much fun. Mom and Dad treated our whole family to an awesome condo, and we made some really fun memories. It's so neat to see Jacey, Cami, and Tate all together in Gatlinburg. It seems like yesterday Jarrett, and I were children walking in the village with our cousins. I can't wait until next yr.

4 MONTHS OLD!

2010-10-13T17:50:00.000-07:00

12 lbs. and 13 ozs.
75th percentile- height
25th-50th percentile- weight

Tate is 4 mos. old! Her 4 mo. doctor's appt. was today. She did great! The nurse gave her 2 shots, and one PO immunization. Bless her heart, her little legs hurt. I gave her some Tylenol afterwards, and she was as happy as can be. Tate is laughing out loud, smiling all the time, making all kinds of noises with her mouth what they call, "raspberries", turning over both ways, doing mini-push ups, trying to crawl, and growing like a weed. She fits in her little exercauser and loves it. She is still sleeping through the night. Tate eats 5 oz. of BM every 3 hours, and can now eat rice cereal and green beans!! I can't wait to see her eat green beans! She has such a sweet little personality. She is always smiling and she loves her mommy so much!

POPSEE TAKES US TO WAFFLE HOUSE!

2010-09-21T15:06:00.000-07:00

Popsee took Mom, Jacey, Camryn, Tate, and me to Waffle House this past Sat. We had so much fun. Zach was out of town, so Tate and I took advantage of it and spent the weekend with Mee Mee and Popsee! The food was so good. The girls had so much fun! It sure was "interesting with a 3 mo. old, 4 yr. old, and 2 yr. old all in the same booth. I love these memories! Thanks Popsee... Your girls love you!

Camryn Turns Two!

2010-09-14T15:59:00.000-07:00

Camryn had so much fun turning two. She got all kinds of fun stuff. Every time she would open presents, she would come over, give them to me and say, "This is for Baby Tate!" She is a sweet baby girl and loves Tate so much. I can't believe Cami is two already.

GOING TO MY BABYSITTER'S HOUSE AND MY BUMBO

2010-09-13T17:41:00.001-07:00

Tate and I both did well on the first day I went back to work. We did a lot better than I thought we would, or at least I did a lot better than I thought. I had a rough week before, but my work friends made it a good first day back. Zach invited my parents over for a suprise dinner the night before I had to go back to work. It was so sweet of him, and really made my transition easier. Mrs. Susan is Tate's babysitter. Tate does really well with her. Susan lives 5 miles from my home, and a mile from my work in G-dale. Christal's sister, Jane, introduced us and it worked out great. I miss her so much everyday, but I'm so thankful that I am able to work part-time and get home early when I do work!

BAMA BABY!!- 3mos.

2010-09-07T14:43:00.000-07:00

Tate is for sure a "BAMA BABY"! This is her first f-ball season, and she loves wearing her Bama outfit to cheer them on. Her Popsee love it even more. We went to Popsee and Mee Mee's house to eat for Labor Day and watch the fball games. Thanks Mee Mee for the yummy food. Can't wait for Tate to go to her first game with her Popsee and me.

TATE LOVES HER DADDY AND SHOPPING AT THE SUMMIT

2010-08-28T16:09:00.001-07:00

Tate loves her daddy so much that she decided to dress just like him. Zach found a polo shirt with the same colors as Tate's polo dress, and they were twins that day. They already look so much alike that I thought this picture was so cute. She definitely has her daddy wrapped around her finger!! The other pictures are of her first shopping trip to the Summit with me and her Mee Mee. It was such a pretty day. Tate's little outfit blended right in.

TATE'S 1ST SWIMMING POOL TRIP

2010-08-28T15:49:00.000-07:00

Tate loved putting her feet in the pool. She loves water so far. I think she is going to be a little water bug. We all went to Mee Mee's pool at Ross Bridge and had so much fun!

9 WEEK UPDATE...

2010-08-16T13:27:00.000-07:00

My mom ("Mee Mee") and I took Tate to the doctor last Friday (Aug. 13) for her check-up. She received 2 shots and the oral rotovirus med. She is so brave. She cried for a minute, then is all smiles again. I thought she may be fussy that day and night b/c of her shots, but she was good as ever all day. She weighed 10lbs and 10 oz. and is 22inches. 50th percentile in height and weight. She is still sleeping through the night, 8 hours!! She smiles and laughs. Not a big fan of "tummy time", but Dr. McCain says she needs more of it. Dr. McCain said she will be eating rice cereal and green beans in 2 mos. I can't wait. Hope to have some videos on here soon! We also met her babysitter, Susan Goodwin. I'm so thankful that our friend Jane referred her to us. She is great with Tate and so sweet. I will actually be able to leave her with Susan and not be worried. My favorite babysitter was Mrs. Judy. I always prayed for a Mrs. Judy for Tate. I think we found one! So thankful for Mrs. Susan!

TATE'S FIRST TRIP TO CHURCH! 8 weeks

2010-08-12T09:31:00.001-07:00

Tate's first trip to church went great! It was so good getting back in the swing of things. We got there on time, and all things were good. She didn't cry and was all smiles. Having a bottle handy adds to the smooth go. I can't believe she is 2 months old, and I go back to work in 3 weeks. We go meet her babysitter tomorrow, and go to the pediatrician to get her shots. Updates on baby Tate soon!

DADDY DAY CARE

2010-08-11T15:47:00.000-07:00

While the core group girls and I were at Girls Night Out, Mike and Zach kept Tate and Cooper. I came home and saw these sweet little moments. Tate let Cooper sleep in her bed, while she slept in her favorite place, her swing. I know one day they will laugh at these pictures. Mike and Zach did a great job!

RUB A DUB DUB- 8 weeks old today (August 6)

2010-08-06T11:44:00.000-07:00

Tate loves getting a bath in her bathtub. It's her relaxing time, ha! She hated when I would give her a bath in the sink, but since Mickey gave us the bathtub, she is a new woman. =) I always wrap her in her "Baby Jesus" towel and sing "Baby Jesus" to her. Mom made up a song when Jarrett and I were babies called, "Baby Jesus". She always and still does call the hooded bath towels, "Baby Jesus" towels. So, I've continued the tradition and Baby Tate loves it. I think she loves it more when her Mee Mee sings it though.
She is 8 weeks old today! God blessed me with an angel baby. Tate has been sleeping through the night (8 hours) for a week. She is drinking 5 oz. of breast milk now, and growing like a weed. Her 2 month Dr. appt. is next Friday. I bet she will weigh more than 10 lbs. now. She has some fat on her thighs now. She still LOVES her swing, and will sleep in it all day if I let her. Tate smiles a lot, coos, and has laughed a little. She is my buddy! I dread going back to work and leaving her.

7 weeks old- Mee Mee and Popsee's home

2010-08-02T22:11:00.000-07:00

Mom took some cute pictures of Tate on the swing in their back yard. Mee Mee gave her the quilt that she is on. Such a pretty day!!

MHS CLASS of 2000 10 yr. reunion!!

2010-08-02T20:21:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my high school reunion is finally here. It was fun. Not as many people came as I thought, but we all had a good time. I am proud to say that 10 yrs. ago, I imagined myself married with one child. I have to say that I've had 10 great years. Can't wait for many more. I do know now that I wont be planning any more reunions. That is for the birds (as my mom likes to say).

MY BABY IS 7 WEEKS OLD TODAY

2010-07-30T18:28:00.001-07:00

My baby girl is 7 weeks old today. Time sure is flying by fast. I read her 7 week milestones on babycenter.org. It said that babies love rattles at 7 weeks, and to put one in their hand. I tried this and Tate LOVED it. Zach and I were cracking up b/c she was shaking it so hard. She is such a sweet baby. Also, she loves Baby Einstein videos. I'll have to post a pic. of her watching them. I will put her right up by the t.v., and she will watch these videos for hours. They are a life saver.

6 weeks old and my first pair of shoes!

2010-07-28T22:44:00.000-07:00

Well, Tate is 6 weeks old! Can you believe it? I sure can't! I never thought I could love someone or anything as much as I love this babygirl. I'm so blessed to be able to stay home with her for 12 weeks, then go part-time. She has her first pair of shoes on in the pics. Her feet are so long and narrow, (like my feet),that the shoes don't fit too great. She still has a head full of dark brown hair. She isn't a fan of pacifiers. I've tried a ton of them, and the only one she likes is that stinking soothie one. I won't her to like the cute ones with designs on them. dang! =)Tate is sleeping 6 hours at night. Wonderful! I'll wake her up, feed her, then put her back down, and she will sleep another 3 or 4 hours. She is smiling and cooing at me. She still loves her swing so much. She sleeps in her crib every night, except for the nights that mommy falls asleep with her on the couch. shhh!! I cherish every moment with her, and am so blessed to be her mommy!

Spend the night party at Mee Mee and Popsee's house!

2010-07-28T19:57:00.000-07:00

5 weeks!! Catching up...

2010-07-16T20:45:00.000-07:00

So, my computer has been down for 3 weeks! I'm not even going to try and catch up, so I will post some random pics. Tate is 5 weeks old today, Friday, July 16. Her 1 mo. appt. went great. Her Mee Mee, my mom, went with us. What a big help! She got her first shot, Hep. B. She cried for a few seconds, and then acted like nothing happened. She is a trouper. She weighed 9 lbs and 4 oz. 75th percentile in height, and 50th percentile in weight!! Tate is nursing well. Every 3 hours during the day, and every 4 hours or more at night. Such a good and content baby! She smiles at me and other familiar faces. She has graduated to a size 1 diaper! Growing up too fast. So far she has had thrush and a blocked tear duct. I caught them quickly, so they healed quickly!! She sleeps in her own crib as of 3 weeks!!! She will sit in her swing and watch her baby "Praise Songs" video for hours. I'm loving being at home everyday with her. I really could get used to this. Sure do wish it was the 50s again, so I could stay home everyday! I love, love, love being a mommy! She is my best buddy, and all I think about. Sure do love her!

Dr. McCain- "J. Mac"- Tate's 2 day check up...

2010-06-24T17:05:00.000-07:00

We went to see Tate's pediatrician, Dr. McCain, AKA J. Mac at Mayfair Peds. She and I worked at the Children's ER together, and I just love her. When I found out she became a pediatrician, I immediatley decided to use her. She is so good with Tate, and I feel so comfortable taking Tate to her. Her first visit, 2 day check-up, went well. She had already gained back up to her birth weight. She is 50th percentile in height and weight. Everything looked great Praise God!!

TATE'S VISITORS

2010-06-23T10:12:00.001-07:00

Little Miss Priss, Tate, has received lots of visitors since she was born. She received a lot at the hospital, but even more visitors have come to see her at home. Most of the pics are on my other slide-show, but here are some more. Ashley and Sean Cosby came to bring us dinner and visited with Tate last week. I was a bad mommy and didn't get her pic with them, but will get one soon. Our church core group and other friends from church have been so wonderful. They have been coming to visit Tate and bring us dinner on Tues. and Thurs. This has been so awesome, b/c this means I haven't had to cook!! Thanks yall!! We really appreciate you. Tate's boyfriend, Cooper, came to visit yesterday with his mommy Jessa and another friend Cortney. Cortney is pregnant also, and will soon have another friend for Tate to play with. Cortney brought us a awesome dinner! Miranda, Eric, and Allison came this week also to bring dinner and visit!! Today, Katie Harbison visited and brought some yummy food too! We have really been blessed with friends/family checking in on us, and helping out. Love yall!!

COMING HOME FROM THE HOSPITAL!

2010-06-23T02:24:00.000-07:00

Tate McKinlee Iffland ARRIVES!!!- June 11, 2010

2010-06-18T22:01:00.000-07:00

My baby girl is finally here! After 9 mos. of praying, wondering and waiting, she is in my arms!! I truly have never loved anyone like I do Tate! She weighed 7lbs and 1 oz, 20 in. She has a head full of dark brown hair like her Daddy! She looks just like him. She has two dimples. One on each side! We sure do love her!!

HEADED TO THE HOSPITAL TO MEET MY BABYGIRL!

2010-06-18T13:33:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of us getting ready to head to St. V's to meet the sweetest babygirl in the world! We didn't know at this time how much our lives would change in such a good way. I went in Thursday night to start the induction process. I received my epidural at around 3am, and after that the process was very speedy!!

UPDATE ON TATE

2010-06-04T17:19:00.000-07:00

I am 40 weeks and one day today. Tate's due date was yesterday, June 3rd. Well, looks like she is going to be stubborn like her mommy, and hang around in her comfortable home in my tummy. Everyone that is due before or a little after me has had their baby. I think Tate knows this and is thinking she wants to surprise everyone and come on her own time. So anyway, I went to the doctor Tues., and Dr. Edwards scheduled to induce me Friday, the 11th, if she doesn't decide to come before then. The 11th is my Big Daddy's b'day, so it would be neat for them to have the same b'days. I had another ultrasound and Tate weighed (without all of her head weight b/c it was so low again), 6 lbs. 14 ozs. Almost 7lbs! She was beautiful on her little pics. I am as of today getting miserable and very tired. I'm ready for her to be here. I came home from work and climbed straight into bed! Hopefully next time I update, I'll be posting pics of her sweet face!

39 weeks and counting!

2010-05-30T17:46:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm still waiting! 39 weeks and waiting to be exact. I went to the doctor last Thurs., and I'm still dilated 1 cm and effaced 75%. No change... Dr. Edwards said I could go past my due date. So, my due date is this Thurs., June 3rd. I'm thinking she will come Monday or Tuesday. Zach says June 6th. Mom says June 10th, and Jarrett, Dad and Christal say Tuesday/Wed. We will see! No contractions or anyhing yet. I'm ready to meet Tate! Can't wait to see her little face for the first time!

NURSERY PICTURES!!

2010-05-17T16:43:00.000-07:00

The nursery is finally finished thanks to my mom and dad! Mom and Dad brought the furniture over after mom painted/distressed both pieces. This took a lot of time, sweat, and love from Mom. Thanks so much Mom!! Mom came over Saturday with my nieces, and we hung pictures, and put the final finishing touches on the nursery. You can't see it very well in the pics, but I stenciled two birds above the old window in the nursery. I can't wait for Tate to see her new room. I have 2 weeks and three days until her due date. I can't wait to kiss her sweet little face!!

LESS THAN A MONTH AWAY UNTIL TATER TOT IS HERE!

2010-05-05T07:24:00.000-07:00

I can't believe Tate will be here in less than a month. She is due June 3rd. I was looking at my calendar this morning as I do every morning. I usually turn to the next mo. or two to plan ahead, and see what I have ahead of me. I turned one page and there was JUNE!! This has really been a very fast pregnancy. I don't have anything to compare it to regarding time, but it has gone by fast to me!

Mom and Dad are bringing over my furniture that mom has distressed/painted next week. Thanks Mom!!! My crib and bedding are already in place. The monitor is ready to go. I'm packing my bags this Thursday night, so I'll be prepared if she comes early. I feel more comfortable about breast feeding since my sis-in-law Christal has helped answer questions, and I have read LOTS of stuff on the internet about it. I also tried out my breast pump the other day which is an huge EYE-OPENER, WOW! I guess all of this will be an eye-opener for Zach and me. Also, I wonder what she will look like. Zach and I look so different. Will she have dark hair with an olive skin complexion like her daddy, or strawberry-blonde hair with freckles and fair skin like me??? Zach and I both have brown eyes, but she may have blue eyes like her Pops (my Dad), Nana (Zach's mom), or my niece, Camryn. Maybe green eyes like my other niece, Jacey?? Hmmm....?? I guess we will see soon!

Jacey's First Swimming Lesson

2010-05-04T08:33:00.001-07:00

Jacey had her first swimming lesson today at Gold's Gym in Vestavia. She did so good. She didn't act nervous or shy at all. I am so proud of her. She is growing up so quickly. She needs to slow it down. Camryn had a good time too, and can't wait to take lessons with her sister. I'm so glad I get off work earlier now so I can share these times with them.

35 WEEK UPDATE/PLUS OB DOC. UPDATE

2010-04-30T08:40:00.000-07:00

I went to get my 2nd ultrasound yesterday. Mom and Zach were there with me. I measured two weeks smaller 2 weeks ago, so Dr. Edwards ordered another ultrasound for me. She weighs 4lbs. and 13 oz. as of yesterday. I measured 34 weeks, and my ultrasound measured 35 weeks. So, I may be having a little petite baby. I guess she will take after her Mee Mee or Uncle Jarrett, b/c Zach and I are NOT petite. I can't wait to meet her. So thankful that my ultrasound went well!!

35 week update per BabyCenter.com:
Tate doesn't have much room to maneuver now that she's over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds (pick up a honeydew melon). Because it's so snug in my womb, she isn't likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of times she kicks should remain about the same. Her kidneys are fully developed now, and her liver can process some waste products. Most of his basic physical development is now complete — she'll spend the next few weeks putting on weight.

CORE GROUP BABY SHOWER

2010-04-28T08:30:00.001-07:00

PERFUME AND INCENSE BRING JOY TO THE HEART, AND THE PLEASANTNESS OF ONE'S FRIEND SPRINGS FROM HIS EARNEST COUNSEL. PROVERBS 27:9

The girls from my Core group had a baby shower for me at Ashley's new house. It was so much fun. I received some great gifts, and can't wait for Tate to see them. I'm so thankful that these girls have come into my life. I really enjoy my time with them. I can't wait for the memories we will make in the years to come.

CHURCH BABY SHOWER/GUNTERSVILLE DIAPER SHOWER

2010-04-27T07:44:00.000-07:00

My church baby shower was awesome! Tate got so many wonderful things. We are so blessed to have such a great church family and friends. Thank you to everyone who put my shower together!! I had so much fun!

We also had a diaper shower in Guntersville at Zach's parents house. Even though there were tornado warnings everywhere, we had a great turn out! We received tons of diapers and wipes! We are so blessed to have such a great start!! We really had a great time. Thanks to Zach's family!

ZACH'S AND MY ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY!!

2010-04-19T13:24:00.000-07:00

Zach and I celebrated our one year anniversary in Guntersville, AL this year. We ate Mexican, and finally got to eat our cake topper! It was a sad weekend b/c Zach's grandfather was in the ICU, and Zach was so sad. Now Zach's Paw Paw is in heaven having a great time with Jesus. We sure do miss him!

Easter 2010

2010-04-19T13:21:00.001-07:00

32 weeks!!!

2010-04-08T09:09:00.000-07:00

About Tate McKinlee:
By now, Tate weighs 3.75 pounds (pick up a large jicama(see above picture)) and is about 16.7 inches long, taking up a lot of space in my uterus. I'm gaining about a pound a week and roughly half of that goes right to baby Tate. In fact, she'll gain a third to half of her birth weight during the next 7 weeks as she fattens up for survival outside the womb. She now has toenails, fingernails, and real hair (or at least respectable peach fuzz). Her skin is becoming soft and smooth as she plumps up in preparation for birth.

About me:
I'm feeling great!! I have less energy now than I have had lately, and can fall asleep at the drop of a hat. I get uncomfortable very easy. I'm always short of breath, and it's hard to bend over!! I definitely can't miss my acid reflux medicine b/c I'll be breathing fire. =) I just can't wait to meet this little kicker in my tummy. My nursery should be put together soon. Mom is distressing two antique pieces for the nursery. Thanks Mom!! Hope to be posting pics soon!

My Paw Paw's 80th Bday

2010-03-30T16:24:00.000-07:00

My Paw Paw turned 80 yo. this month. I can't believe he is 80 yo. He sure doesn't act like it or look like it. We had a surprise party for him at my mom's house. I made my homemade peanut butter cake, and mom made some other yummy stuff! It seems like yesterday he was taking me to McDonalds to get a strawberry milkshake, or telling me stories and knocking on his wall to scare me when I spent the night with him. He is a sweet Paw Paw!

28 WEEKS!!!

2010-03-15T18:09:00.001-07:00

THIRD TRIMESTER AND A NEW JOB

2010-03-11T16:45:00.000-08:00

Today I am officially in my 3rd trimester. 28 weeks! It's unbelievable how fast this pregnancy thing is going. I just need to keep her in the oven for at least 10 more weeks!! I want her to grow and do all of her milestones in my tummy. I'm feeling great, and baby Tate is kicking away. She really likes to kick my ribs a lot. I'm having lots of heartburn even with the acid reducer I take every night. I wonder if this means she will have a head full of hair??

Tomorrow, March 12th, will be my last official full-time day at Children's. I will be working 0.1 in the ER and the PACU. 0.1 is at least 8 hours a pay period. I'm so excited b/c I start my new job Monday at the Gardendale Surgery Center. It is 5 minutes down the road from our house, and I do not have to get on the interstate to get to work. No patients are scheduled yet, we will be just getting ready to open. I will be getting off a lot earlier, so this means more time with Zach and my family!! Even better, no holidays, no call, and no weekends!! Also, I will be a lot closer to Tate's babysitters house too!! Which makes me feel even better. I will be starting full-time at the center, and then going to part-time when Tate arrives. I can't wait to start this new job, help start the center, and meet my co-workers! God surely has blessed us with so much!

Belly picture from 22 weeks (a little late)

2010-03-07T18:26:00.001-08:00

This is a belly picture from 22 weeks. Mom reminded me today that I haven't updated a belly pic. 27 weeks coming soon!!!

27 WEEKS AND COUNTING!!

2010-03-06T13:34:00.000-08:00

This week, she weighs almost 2 pounds (like a head of cauliflower) and is about 14 1/2 inches long with her legs extended. She's sleeping and waking at regular intervals, opening and closing her eyes, and perhaps even sucking her fingers. With more brain tissue developing, her brain is very active now. While her lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning — with a lot of medical help — if she were born now. Chalk up any tiny rhythmic movements you may be feeling to a case of baby hiccups, which may be common from now on. Each episode usually lasts only a few moments, and they don't bother her, so just relax and enjoy the tickle!!

I'm feeling great and have lots of energy. I was up cleaning the house past 9pm after work. It seems I have more energy now then when I wasn't pregnant. It's so funny how I was so sick the 1st trimester, and over night I felt like a new person! She is very active. Tate McKinlee kicks all day. She is still at church, but when we stand up to sing she starts kicking a bunch. I think she loves music. We listen to classical music at night. I came home to a baby bed put together and ready to use the other night after work. Zach made my night. Zach is going to be a great daddy! Thank you God for my babygirl and husband. Please continue to keep her safe and healthy inside and outside the womb!!!

PACU BABY SHOWER

2010-03-05T21:18:00.000-08:00

Today at work, my PACU (recovery) buddies surprised me with a baby shower. They gave me some cute baby clothes, and a $200 gift certificate to Babies R Us. So sweet!! Lisa gave me a baby elephant (we are both huge Bama fans) for Tate, a cute outfit, a baby book, and teething ring. The food was awesome too. They bought some cute little cupcakes that had pink polka dots on them. Thank ya'll so much!!

JAIME'S PRE-WEDDING CELEBRATION

2010-03-01T16:40:00.000-08:00

Jaime is my best friend from college. She is getting married at the end of March. I'm so excited for her. We celebrated at La Paz in Mountain Brook. Lindsey, a good college friend of mine is also pregnant. We are a week apart. She is also having a girl, and we got to share pregnancy stories that night. It was so good spending time with my college friends. Congrats Jaime! We love you!

Visit to Auburn

2010-02-28T13:49:00.000-08:00

I went to Auburn to see my good friends Leslie and Rhonda. We worked together in Auburn, and have stayed very close. I spent the night with Leslie. Leslie, Rhonda and I went out to eat at Picket Fence, then went shopping and they bought my baby bag!! Then we went to eat dinner at Hamilton's. We also went to the movies to see Dear John. We had so much fun. I miss them so much!

Tate's first pictures!!

2010-01-31T11:06:00.000-08:00

This is my precious Tate's first picture debut!! I think she is beautiful already, and I can't wait to meet her. I love the picture of her sucking her thumb. Seeing her is amazing to me!! Thank you for your blessings Lord!

21 weeks and more...

2010-01-23T10:06:00.000-08:00

Tate now weighs about three-quarters of a pound and is approximately 10 1/2 inches long — the length of a carrot. I may soon feel like she's practicing martial arts as her initial fluttering movements turn into full-fledged kicks and nudges. I may also discover a pattern to her activity as I get to know her better. In other developments, baby's eyebrows and lids are present now, and her vagina has begun to form as well. (BabyCenter.com)

Well, I'm more than half way through pregnancy. Very hard to believe! I feel like I just saw the "two lines" on the pregnancy test. I have to say this is the happiest and excited I've ever been in my whole life. I feel so at peace and so content! I feel great, and I'm sleeping much better. I can already feel Tate kick and move around! It's the neatest thing!! Tate loves it when I play Baby Genius/classical baby music to her at night. I've heard that this makes babies smarter. I really believe it does! We sing on the way home from work every night. On the other hand, Bella, my four yr. old Shitzu, is my other baby. I'm a little worried about Bella's jealousy towards her sister Tate. I can't talk to someone without her coming in the middle and barking until I pick her up. sheesh! I've heard of some ways to orient her to Tate. I'm going to start them now. If anyone else knows some other good way to get her used to Tate, let me know.

Belly pics are coming!!

IT'S A GIRL!!

2010-01-20T19:57:00.000-08:00

IT'S A GIRL! Wow, Zach and I plus all of my friends and fam. except for Christal, Miranda, Pam, my charge nurse,and well that's about it thought we were having a boy. I have always thought I would have boys! So this was a pleasant surprise! Zach was a little shocked at first, bless his heart, but he is so excited now. We found out last Wednesday. Mom and Dad were there with us. This meant so much to me. I was so nervous, and they made it so much easier! Also, Tate is very healthy. No abnormalties were seen! Praise the Lord! So, TATE MCKINLEE IFFLAND will be here June 3rd. I can't wait to meet my baby girl!!

18 weeks and counting!!

2009-12-31T16:09:00.000-08:00

Head to rump, your baby is about 5 1/2 inches long (about the length of a bell pepper) and he weighs almost 7 ounces. He's busy flexing his arms and legs — movements that you'll start noticing more and more in the weeks ahead. His blood vessels are visible through his thin skin, and his ears are now in their final position, although they're still standing out from his head a bit. A protective covering of myelin is beginning to form around his nerves, a process that will continue for a year after he's born. If you're having a girl, her uterus and fallopian tubes are formed and in place. If you're having a boy, his genitals are noticeable now, but he may hide them from you during an ultrasound. Your baby is the size of a sweet potatoe!!

Well, I had my first unofficial ultrasound today!!! It was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!! Glory be to God!!! That is all I can say. Seeing my sweet baby for the first time move and suck his/her thumb, flip around, etc. is just awesome. Michelle a friend of mine that works with me in the PACU at Children's went down the hall to ultrasound with me. One of the girls was sweet enough to do an ultrasound on me. Everything looked normal to us, which was a breath of fresh air. My official ultrasound where they measure everything and really check everything out in detail (if mom and I have anything to do with it!! ha!) will be Jan. 13th. I hope that baby boy/girl opens his/her legs, b/c today he/she was refusing. Oh, and Baby Iffland waved at us also. It was like he/she was saying, "Hey, I see you, and I'm not going to let you see what I have down there until Zach is with you!!" So, I'll be good and wait. As for me, I'm feeling great!! No nausea/vomiting, and lots of energy. My hair and nails are growing fast. My face is breaking out "more than usual". I am not sleeping well at all. I think this is God's way of getting me used to being sleep deprived when Baby Iffland comes. Gosh I already love this sweet baby so much already! Thank you Lord for your blessings!!!

17 weeks and counting!!

2009-12-26T17:36:00.001-08:00

How your baby's growing:
Your baby's skeleton is changing from soft cartilage to bone, and the umbilical cord — her lifeline to the placenta — is growing stronger and thicker. Your baby weighs 5 ounces now (about as much as a turnip), and she's around 5 inches long from head to bottom. She can move her joints, and her sweat glands are starting to develop. The baby is as big as on onion!

CHRISTMAS 2009

2009-12-26T15:50:00.001-08:00

I think each year during Christmas time gets better and better. Especially with all of the new additions to the family. Watching Christmas through my nieces eyes is so much fun. They are so much fun. I can't wait to have a totally new experience with my own child next year. I worked on Christmas Eve, so I had to miss the Iffland Christmas party. Zach really had a good time though! Christmas day we went to Jarrett and Christal's house for breakfast and lunch. It was so laid back and relaxing. Thank you Lord for blessing us with good health and togetherness. Thank you for my family and friends. Thanks Mom and Dad for everything. We really appreciate all that you do!! Merry Christmas everyone!

14 weeks, baby name picks, crib, and baby bedding!

2009-12-06T17:21:00.000-08:00

I'm 14 weeks! I'm in my 2nd trimester already. Baby Iffland is the size of a lemon! This week's big developments: Baby Iffland can now squint, frown, grimace, pee, and possibly suck his/her thumb! Thanks to brain impulses, his/her facial muscles are getting a workout as his tiny features form one expression after another. His/her kidneys are producing urine, which he/she releases into the amniotic fluid around him/her — a process he'll/she'll keep up until birth. He/she can grasp, too, and if you're having an ultrasound now, you may even catch him/her sucking his/her thumb!
I have not had to take Zofran in 3 days. So wonderful! No nausea/vomiting! I never thought I would say that. No belly pic. yet, b/c there hasn't been a lot of change to my tummy physically. My present symptoms/signs are face breakouts, heartburn, and just being hormonal. I cry about anything sweet, sad, etc. Mom and I picked out the crib and baby bedding. yay!! I love it. Thanks so much mom and dad! We really love you, and appreciate it so much. Thanks to Mom we got a great deal on everything.
Baby names are... GIRL- Tate McKinley BOY- River Lee Iffland. I'm so pumped about the name picks. Lee is my Dad's middle name. I want to have a boy for my dad more than anyone. I pray for you everyday sweet baby. I love you so much already. Below and above are pics of the bedding and the crib. The espresso color is our crib. The other light colored crib is another pic with more detail. I'm so proud and excited!!

PACU PREGGERS

2009-11-21T10:47:00.000-08:00

Congrats Melissa! Melissa had Georgia Ann Vargas Nov. 15. She is a beautiful baby girl. It was so fun being pregnant together and sharing stories. She has been a big help to me. We will miss you why you are on maternity leave!! So glad our babies will be around the same age!

12 WEEKS PREGNANT

2009-11-21T09:59:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm 12 weeks and 2 days today! Baby Iffland is now a size of a large lime. I have felt flutters, which feels so neat. Dad and I think it's just the baby saying, "Roll Tide"! I've gained 5 lbs. I'm trying to exercise, and eat right, so it will not be hard for me to lose weight post-partum. It's hard though when all I crave is Chinese, Buffalo Wings, and salt and vinegar chips!! I really crave orange juice a lot. My intuition tells me the baby is a boy. Old wives tales say craving OJ means it's a boy. I would love to have a boy, just praying for a healthy baby though! Thanks to Zofran, I am nausea and vomit free. I'm really tired a lot and have a stuffy nose. Just the normal stuff. Zach and I are so excited. We get to hear the heartbeat Dec. 1. Thank you Lord for this miracle, and all of your blessings. We love you so much!

Halloween 2009

2009-11-08T19:09:00.001-08:00

Gatlinburg 2009

2009-11-01T15:19:00.000-08:00

We had so much fun! It was so good to get away by ourselves and have a relaxing trip. I know one thing, I will not go on another trip or big outing during my 1st trimester. Wow, driving around Cades Coves never bothered me until now. It caused nausea city!! Here are some pics. of the Village, Johnson's Inn, Cades Cove (with the prettiest rainbow I've ever seen!), a view from our table at The Peddler, etc. Can't wait to go back for the 28th yr. in a row.

I'M PREGNANT!

2009-10-15T19:28:00.000-07:00

"Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord,the fruit of the womb a reward" Psalm 127:3
Yes, I'm definitely pregnant! I'm 7 weeks pregnant to be exact. I'm loving every minute of it. My first appointment was last Wednesday. The due date is June 3rd!! We told our families last weekend. The day I found out was one of the best days of my life!! I will never forget the feeling. God blessed us with this little miracle. Thank you Lord!! Please pray for a healthy pregnancy and baby!! I had my first morning sickness Monday. That reminded me that it's not about me anymore. From now on it's about the little one! We are excited. I'll keep you updated. No change in the tummy yet of course, but I just had to do the belly pick!!

NEW PICS TO COME SOON!

2009-09-06T17:23:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone! Yes I know, I haven't updated in a while. I will be starting to update again very soon with some wedding and honeymoon pics. I'm loving married life, our new home, and working at Children's again. Zach is loving his job also. Hope my blogger friends are doing great. New posts soon! Happy blogging...

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY MOM!!

2009-05-09T10:47:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 31:12 and 25-31

She is worth far more than rubies.

She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.
She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.
She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her:
"Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all."
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

MOM,

I KNOW TODAY ISN'T MOTHER'S DAY, BUT EVERYDAY REALLY IS A DAY TO HONOR YOU. SO I THOUGHT I WOULD GET A HEAD START AND TELL YOU THAT I LOVE YOU AND APPRECIATE YOU SO MUCH. HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!! YOU TRULY ARE A PERFECT EXAMPLE OF A GREAT CHRISTIAN MOM. THANK YOU FOR THE WONDERFUL EXAMPLE YOU HAVE BEEN TO JARRETT AND ME ALL OF OUR LIVES. I AM WHO I AM TODAY BECAUSE OF YOU! I HOPE AND PRAY THAT I CAN BE HALF THE MOM ONE DAY THAT YOU ARE TO ME EVERYDAY!

I LOVE YOU MORE,

MANDY

UPDATE...

2009-04-23T12:17:00.000-07:00

I'm planning on updating with some cute little slideshows with wedding pics., new house pics., etc. someday! We moved in, and are almost settled into our home in Mt. Olive. yay! Zach's house is still for sale in Auburn. Keep us in your prayers!! We got married on March 28th. It was such a fun and special day. We went to Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA for our honeymoon! We really enjoyed it!! For now, here are a few pics of our wedding and home. Thanks everyone for all of your support and help with our wedding festivities!!! It's so wonderful to have such great friends and family!! Love you!

WORK WEDDING TEA IN AUBURN

2009-02-21T21:24:00.000-08:00

My PACU/OR work friends gave me a wedding tea in Auburn. Zach and I got some really nice things. Thanks everyone! Leslie, thanks for opening your home to everyone! It was so much fun!

More wedding presents at home with family...

2009-02-21T20:47:00.001-08:00

I opened my presents from Jarrett, Christal, mom and dad the night before my tea. Jarrett, Christal, Jacey, and Camryn got us our toasting flutes. Mom and Dad got us our luggage, some of our china, Anthropology dishes, etc, my wedding book and lots more. Thanks ya'll! We love everything.
Zach didn't get to come to Bham until Sunday. He got to come to my tea after it was over to help pack up. He wondered why any real guy needed to come in close distance to a tea. He learned real quick that women can't haul everything to the truck. Oh, what we both have to learn! =)

WEDDING TEA IN BIRMINGHAM

2009-02-21T20:29:00.000-08:00

My tea was so much fun! I got some really great stuff. Zach and I really appreciate it so much. We can't wait to use everything. My best friend, Jill, took all of these pictures. She is the best matron of honor ever! Thanks Jill!

BIRMINGHAM HERE WE COME AND UPDATES!!!

2009-02-14T13:55:00.000-08:00

I am going to update with some new pics. soon!!

First of all I had 2 awesome wedding showers, and am so thankful to everyone who helped. I had one in Bham, and another in Auburn with my wonderful co-workers!! I received some beautiful things, and am so thankful to have such awesome things to help Zach and I start out RIGHT!!
Zach and I have been praying for lots of things; the right jobs, place to move, and not just any place to work or move. I've been praying for a while, but know I'm on God's time not mine!! (which is very impatient time mind you)... We found out last Friday that Zach has a job with Merita. He will be a Quality Assurance Manager/Auditor. He will not be managing as many people, and has so many wonderful benefits with this job. The company is located in downtown Bham. I have been torn between different places to work. I have missed Children's so much. There really is no place like it! So with much wisdom from Jesus himself, I chose to come back to Children's Hospital!!! I have an interview the first of March for a position in the PACU. I want to work PRN in the ER also, so I can be with all of my buddies there again!! I just love PACU, and can't see myself doing anything else. Where to live? Mt. Olive is where we will settle down. My aunt called with some great ideas, so we will see. I'm very excited about this new chapter in our lives. Zach and I will be getting married March 28th also, so there will be LOTS going on. Please keep us in your prayers. We are so excited that we will be back closer to friends and family again!!! PRAISE THE LORD!!!

NEW YEARS

2009-01-10T19:05:00.001-08:00

Zach and I had a quiet New Year's Eve this year. I was on call New Year's Day, so we stayed in. I don't think anyone could pay me to get out in the crowds now. Wow, I thought I would never say that. Happy New Year's to everyone!!!

Saving Lives!!!

2009-01-08T17:59:00.000-08:00

• And so is the world put back by the death of every one who has to sacrifice the development of his or her peculiar gifts (which were meant, not for selfish gratification, but for the improvement of that world) to conventionality. [1852] ~Florence Nightingale

Well, today I actually can say I saved someone's life on my own. There are so many times that nurses save lives at work, etc. We work together to save lives, and help others heal and feel better!! I have seen patients die, or come in D.O.A (dead on arrival). That horrible and just so, so sad. I have to say though, that I have never seen someone go from 90 to NOTHING in seriously ONE second. I had a patient today (I'm not saying any names, so I'm not violating HIPAA laws) that had neck surgery. The patient was doing great!! Recovering just wonderfully! Awake, alert and oriented x3. No history of respiratory problems, etc. She wanted something to drink, so I looked at her orders. On her orders, I saw that she could have clear liquids. So, I provided her with a sip of Sprite. No big deal right??? WRONG!!! Usually not a big deal! Usually a norm. in the PACU. She was loving the sprite until I look over after a sip, and she is gagging. Yep, she was talking to me, saying it just went down the wrong windpipe. All the sudden, she did the universal sign of choking (seriously, this is real, and it happens! It's not just on the silly videos) and turns blue. In one, I repeat one second, the patient was apneic and flopped back on the bed. I immediately jerk the side rail down, yell for everyone to come help, and give abdominal thrusts. I give 4 strong abdominal thrusts (only give abdominal thrust to unresponsive victims; just a side note), and she starts breathing again. Her color came back, and she is once again responsive. It felt so good to see her eyes open and look at me!!! Thank the LORD!! It all seems like a blur, but I'm so thankful that my patient is alive and well right now!! It just shows how fast things can happen, even to a healthy patient with no history. The way I felt today after this happened made me realize again why I became a nurse. I have so much passion for helping others, and making them better. I became so close to the patient, just talking to her for a hour. Even though I called 10 people to the bedside when the emergency happened, it felt like it was just my patient and me for about 10 secs. It seemed like eternity. The cool thing is that I just had a refresher CPR class yesterday. Even though I would know what to do, I know God was preparing me for what happened today. God was refreshing my mind to help my patient and make me stronger. Thank you Lord for preparing me for the unknown. God is good; ALL THE TIME!!

P.S. Zach has an interview in Bham tomorrow with Coca-Cola. Please pray for him to do well, and that God's will be done. We are ready to be closer to home...

A SIMPLE LOVE

2009-01-06T22:34:00.000-08:00

This video has always been one of my favorites. It reminds me of our old home videos, my parent's love for each other, and their love for me. Mom and Dad have "always given and never asked back". Mom and Dad have saved for my wedding, and mom plans and works on it like it is her own. They are the most selfless people I have ever met. The older I get the more I understand, and appreciate their simple love for each other and myself. Thank you mom and dad for your "simple love". Thank you for yall's great example. I love you!!
(turn off my blog page music to hear the video)

Christmas in Bham/Auburn

2009-01-05T22:19:00.000-08:00

Well, it's Zach's and my last Christmas before we are husband and wife! Weird, huh?!! It sounds so grown up. Wait!!?? I am grown up. Whoa, when did that happen! I guess I just thought I would never find someone so great, and I did. God has blessed me, and I'm so thankful!! I'm just hoping our next Christmas will be in our home in Bham. Zach has an interview in Bham Friday, so please pray, pray, pray for him!! I'm ready to come home!

Mom and Dad got me some great Christmas gifts as always. Above all though, just being with my family, and celebrating Jesus's birth (b/c after all that's what Christmas is all about) was wonderful! Mom and Dad bought Zach and me our wedding book for all my parties, showers, wedding, etc. I'm really pumped about it!! Mom made me a cookbook with her recipes and my grandmother's recipes. I asked her to give me some recipes, but she actually made me a book of them. She really put a lot of time into this book. So sweet! Thanks mom!! Also, she bought me a apron with my name monogrammed on it. So, I guess this means I definitely will be cooking up a storm pretty soon. woo hoo!! I'm sure I'll learn to love it, right!!??? Well, I hope you all had a great Christmas. I sure did miss "Chrima" at "Chiren's" Hospital with my buddies. It sure wasn't the same!! Love you all and Happy New Year!!

GOOFY JARRETT!

Christmas in Guntersville with the Iffland's

2009-01-01T19:49:00.000-08:00

Zach was Santa again at his family Christmas party this yr. It was hilarious as usual. I just love the look on the children's faces in the last picture. Such innocence and sweetness. After Guntersville we headed up to Bham, and then back to Auburn. We sure did have a great time!

Christmas in Mt. Olive at the Tate's

2008-12-22T18:12:00.000-08:00

THANKSGIVING IN BHAM

2008-12-22T17:34:00.000-08:00

JACEY'S TURNS 3!

2008-12-21T19:10:00.000-08:00

More from Gatlinburg 08'

2008-12-21T18:39:00.000-08:00

Zach is at it again!!

2008-12-21T18:09:00.000-08:00

Zach shot his 3rd deer this year! He is so proud!

Zach's 2nd Kill of the Year and Cainan's 1st Kill

2008-10-29T18:12:00.000-07:00

Zach below posing for his infamous deer pic of the year. I'm sure he hopes there will be many more this year!! Cainan, Zach's nephew, had his first kill this year, a little squirrel. He was so excited. Zach was a very proud uncle!! Happy hunting boys!!

Annual Opelika Wine Tasting- "On The Tracks"

2008-10-18T20:15:00.000-07:00

AUBURN TAILGATING AND GAMES...

2008-09-30T18:01:00.001-07:00

OK, I ADMIT, I WENT TO TWO AUBURN GAMES. I JUST WENT TO SOCIALIZE!!! I STILL HATE AUBURN. HOW CAN AUBURN FANS SIT AND ENJOY THE NASTY BLUE AND ORANGE COLORS. EVEN THOUGH I HAD TONS OF FUN, I LOVE MY BAMA AND STILL BLEED CRIMSON!!! I KNOW MY DAD, MIRANDA, AND OTHERS WILL BREATHE A SIGH OF RELIEF. SO, I'M PUMPED THAT ALABAMA IS #2AND PLAYING GREAT!! ROLL TIDE!

ZACH'S HUNTING LAND IN AUBURN

2008-09-30T16:38:00.000-07:00

Zach is getting the land he hunts on ready for hunting season, so we spend a lot of time there. We found a beautiful bridge and creek that reminded me of the Smoky Mountains. Anytime I find somewhere that reminds me of my favorite place, Gatlinburg, I just have to take some pictures!! Also, Zach killed a nasty, ol' hog with his bow, yuck!! Here it is!!

CAMRYN ASHLEY TATE IS HERE!!!- SEPT. 10, 2008

2008-09-10T18:26:00.000-07:00

My niece is finally here! I'm so proud! She weighs 71b. 9oz. and is 20 1/2 in. She has a head full of blonde hair. Christal did great and of course looked great! I'm so happy my other favorite baby girl is here! Mom and Dad went to the hospital early this AM. Of course, I had to work, but I got to work, and my co-workers said, GO SEE THAT BABYGIRL! I was so glad to be able to take off today! Camryn is another blessing from above. GOD is good, ALL THE TIME!

Labor Day weekend in B'ham and Guntersville

2008-09-04T17:28:00.000-07:00

SWEET MEMORIES

2008-09-04T16:52:00.000-07:00

I found this old slideshow on rockyou.com today, and just had to post it. Such sweet memories with friends and family. I can't believe how time flies!! I'm waiting on my new niece to arrive, Camryn Tate, and Jacey was just a baby in these pics!! Just had to share this!! I love and miss everyone!!

FUN FILLED WEEKEND!

2008-08-10T17:28:00.001-07:00

Zach and I haven't been
together in the last 4
weekends, because of trips,
wedding parties, work etc.
So, we spent some time in
Auburn this weekend.
Friday, we had Leslie, a
friend from work, and Chris
over for a cook out.
Saturday, we went to the Lee
County Flea Market. Now, I
truly see how other's junk
can be another person's
treasure. I found so many
pieces of furniture that I
wanted to buy and refinish!
Maybe one day! =) Then, we
went to Zoo City in
Columbus, Georgia. We rode
go-carts, played skee-
ball, played putt-
putt golf, etc. I had to
quit riding go-carts half
way through because I almost
ran somebody off the track.
It's not easy holding your
skirt down with one hand,
driving with the other, and
having to switch hands
depending on what curve I
was on. Note to self: Don't
wear a skirt if you are
going to ride go-carts!!
ha! If you notice in one of
the pictures, Zach's head is
cut off... well, I would
have managed to pick the
only lady in the place that
did not speak English I just
stuck with that picture, b/c
I didn't want to hurt her
feelings by getting someone
else to do it. OH WELL...
Today, Sunday, we went to
Montgomery for a Southern
Bridal Registry function. I
got a call last Thurs.
saying I won two trips. One
trip is a honeymoon trip
that is all inclusive to the
Bahamas, Mexico, or the
Dominican Republic. Even
though we had to sit through
a hour and a half of this
guy trying to sale us
cookware, etc., we left with
two free wedding goblets and
2 free trips. fun, fun!!

KRYSTAL'S LINGERIE PARTY AND A BEACH TRIP WITH THE GIRLS

2008-08-10T16:39:00.000-07:00

Wedding Plans...

2008-08-10T15:53:00.000-07:00

Mom and I have been busy with wedding plans. I have to say that my mom is been busier than me. She really is the best wedding planner a girl could have at this special time. We are getting married in B'ham at Homewood Church of Christ, where I grew up, on March 28, 2009. Some of the major parts of my wedding plans are done! I found my wedding dress at Bella Couture in Mt. Laurel. Mom and I weren't going to go b/c the dresses are so expensive, but we thought we would just take a look. We found this dress on the sample rack and it was a great bargain! We came back the next weekend and bought it. I love it, and I'm so excited about it!! We aren't so sure about the honeymoon destination yet. We are thinking either Montana or a more tropical destination! Thanks Mom for being such a big help!!

HEATH'S WEDDING

2008-08-09T20:52:00.000-07:00

random pics!

2008-07-07T17:13:00.001-07:00

Zach got me a new camera this weekend for my upcoming birthday. I haven't been able to take any pics, b/c I dropped my camera in a cooler like a loser on the beach trip. Anyway, Zach's parents came and stayed in Auburn this weekend. I was on call this weekend. When I came home, Zach and his family had a cake and presents waiting for me. So sweet!! So, no pics of that, but when I got my camera figured out I had to take some random pictures...

COLLEGE FRIENDS!

2008-07-07T17:04:00.001-07:00

I got to spend some time with my college buddies Matthew and Jaime! Fun times as usual!

TRIP TO T-TOWN

2008-07-07T16:53:00.001-07:00

BEST FRIENDS SINCE 2ND GRADE!

Bella got to hang out with her friends, Chloe and Jake!

Zach and I went to Tuscaloosa to visit our best friends. It was so good to see them!

More beach pictures...

2008-07-07T16:28:00.000-07:00

More Beach Pictures...Destin, FL 08'

2008-05-21T18:50:00.001-07:00

I'm engaged! Destin, Florida-May 2008

2008-05-21T18:29:00.000-07:00

PSALM 37:7- Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him. Finally for once in my life, I learned how to be patient. Being blessed with Zach, and the person he is on the inside and out is the result of patience and being still. I'm so excited about my engagement!! It truly was everything I have ever dreamed of. Zach made it so special, especially with my family being around to share the excitement. God has blessed me with such a sweetheart and a best friend.

An Afternoon Trip to Eufala, Alabama

2008-04-20T14:52:00.001-07:00

ABOVE: Here are some action shots of Zach getting a turtle for me in the alligator infested waters. I thought he was just getting out of the truck to look on the ground. All the sudden, I heard a splash of water, looked out the window, and saw him in the swamp! He is more brave than I'll ever be!!

Bella was lovin' the view!

Windblown Hair!

Someone is worn SLAP out...

Another Weekend in Bham- April 08

2008-04-07T18:04:00.000-07:00

I bought Jacey some sunglasses, a beach bag, and a mickey mouse towel from the Disney store. Now she can be the coolest 2 yr. old in Destin when we go in May!! You'll be lucky if you can see her face under all that hair. She wasn't interested in being a ham like usual!

Krissy, our family dog, who looked a lot like my Bella, was called to doggy heaven this month. She was 13 yrs. old. Mom had a hard time with this, and still misses her so much. If it weren't for mom she would have never lived so long. We miss her!

EASTER 2008

2008-03-24T16:47:00.001-07:00

I'm on call every 6th weekend, and it happened to fall on Easter. It worked out great, except for not being able to be with family, b/c I only got called in once. Zach and I got to go to church, eat and shop. It was such a pretty day. The picture is so blurry, b/c I timed it, and ran to get in the picture. Oh well, at least we have something. Hope ya'll had a great Easter!!

Bella's Bad Haircut Courtesy of her Mommy

2008-03-18T16:44:00.000-07:00

Well, I guess saving money isn't always a good thing. I was bound and determined to cut Bella's hair on my own, without having to pay $25.00. I bought some clippers at Petco, and began cutting. To make a long story short, hair was everywhere outside, all over me, and now Bella looks like she has the mange. Looks like I'll be taking her to the groomer next time. OOOPS!

A Weekend of Fun in Auburn

2008-03-18T16:32:00.001-07:00

Spring is almost here! I'm so excited. This past weekend Zach and I went to the Ronny Milsap concert in Montgomery. I forgot my memory card for my camera. GREAT! I think Zach and I were the youngest couple there, but it was so much fun. When he sang "Smoky Mtn. Rain" that was all I needed for the wkend, b/c it was da bomb, ha! We also went to Lee County Lake. I caught one fish and Zach caught about 4!! Looks like I need to step it up. That's about all I've been up to!! Hope everyone is doing great! Hope you all have a great Easter.