Our Family

A pictures worth a thousand words

2009-02-05T17:36:00.001-08:00

This was Jordan's first taste of food...well, Rice cereal and applesauce...She was not quite sure what to do with it but is getting the hang of eating...as long as it is pears or applesauce. I think we might have a picky eater on our hands:) She is just too precious, even with food dripping down her face!!

Now that I'm 4!!...

2009-02-05T17:32:00.001-08:00

Cole has really been into turning 4. He says how tall he his, how strong he is...how he can do new things now that he is 4...anyway, he had to get a new haircut...yes, we cut the curls. But, if you could have seen how excited and proud he was over his new haircut, it was worth it!!

Diva in the making

2008-12-21T18:33:00.001-08:00

Barbie bought this outfit for Jordan at Gymboree and I monogrammed the big J on the front...how cute is this...and of course, she had to have the zebra bow:) Check out the stockings, they have the zebra and pink on them...yes, she is my own personal dress up baby doll!! I have to enjoy it while she let's me do it!!

Christmas...Jordan Style

2008-12-20T17:57:00.001-08:00

Our Little Christmas Present

This was one of the shirts I made for Jordan...it has a J and then I made one for Cole with a C....love the monogram machine!!

How cute is she?!

Okay, so note the shirts that I made for Cole and Jordan and note, there is a child missing in this pic...Cole was so excited to go with Jordan and match her, then when we got there, he said no, I am staying in the stroller, so I let him stay in the stroller and our little Jordan loved it!!

It is hard to believe that this time last year I was in the process of having my eggs taken out and our little miracle being made for us:) Then I was on bed rest up until the 24th of December last year after my embryo transfer. Of course, it all worked and our little miracle is now here, it is amazing to see what a difference a year makes...how blessed we are to have two amazing kiddos!!

Tea for Three...

2008-12-20T17:53:00.001-08:00

Cole went over to his bubbie and zeyda's house (Eric's parents house) and he drank some tea. So he said that I needed to drink tea...so I brewed up some tea and Cole set out our tea party...of course, Jordan had to join us too!!

Our Garage Sale

2008-12-20T17:48:00.000-08:00

Twice a year our neighborhood sponsors a garage sale...for some reason, Cole was very taken with the whole garage sale idea this year. He went around and kept telling us that he was selling all sorts of items at the garage sale. Anyway, the other day he went and got all of his toys and his cash register and told me to come into the living room to go shopping at his garage sale...how fun and creative he is!!

Everything in its place...

2008-11-06T17:50:00.000-08:00

When we come in the house we often take our shoes off at the back door in the laundry room. Well, this scene just cracked me up...Cole took his shoes and my shoes and lined them up by the back door...then he was gone for a minute and I came in and realized that he went in Jordan's room and got her tennis shoes out and lined them right up with ours...how cute!!

Happy Halloween...

2008-11-06T17:31:00.000-08:00

This Halloween season included many costumes in our house. Jordan had two costumes, a caterpillar and a butterfly...and then Cole had a zillion choices. He is very into dress up, so it is sort of like Halloween around here everyday. He ended up going with the Hulk but he was almost Batman, Spider Man and a few other options. It is so cute to see him get so into being dressed up. This year was definitely a changing year for Halloween, because he was so excited and really was into it. I try to make holidays go on for the entire month. So this month, we visited 3 pumpkin patches and we had our costumes around the house. Cole and I also made pumpkin cookies...yummy and had our countdown calendar to Halloween...he didn't realize I was trying to teach him all his numbers along the way. We took Jordan out for trick or treating but she only lasted on our street. I was bummed that I had to go back home but dada was a trooper and took Cole to A LOT of houses...judging by the amount of candy. I asked Cole how many houses we were going to go to...his answer...we are going to every house, we are not going to miss a single one...so cute and great big sentence. Hope everyone enjoyed their Halloween month as much as we did!!

Here is Jordan as a butterfly...how stinkin' cute is she

Here is my big hulk and little butterfly. Cole is always so proud when he holds Jordan. She started to cry when he was holding her here and it was so precious because he started to bounce her like I do when she starts to cry.

One big happy family...yikes who is the green guy?!!

Here are Cole and Jordan's Halloween buckets. I loved making these....not sure if they love getting them more or if I love making them more?! I filled Cole's with fun things like glow sticks and candy and Jordan got a pumpkin rattle and a burp cloth to match her outfit....I love this stuff!!

Here was an "adventure" day. I tell Cole all the time that we are going to go on an adventure and I try to change up a regular event by doing something a little different. By this time we had already gone to 2 pumpkin patches, so this time I said we would dress in costumes...no, I did not dress up, but he would have loved that...sorry kiddo...but we did dress "baby sister" up and Cole was so excited to go out in his costume.

Here is my little batman and caterpillar

Is this photo priceless or what...so precious

A real "Wild" child

2008-10-28T18:21:00.001-07:00

I loved this little leopard outfit...of course Bubbie loved it (that is what our kiddos call Barbie). She was too cute and of course, another bow!!

Nana and Jordan

2008-10-28T18:17:00.000-07:00

My mom visited the other day and Jordan was smiling and sleeping while she was holding her. Those are the priceless moments that you never want to forget!! I know my mom is so excited to finally get that granddaughter that they were hoping for...don't get me wrong, the grandsons are cherished and loved but after 4 grandsons, a girl was a welcome change:)

Crafty Pumpkin Mommy

2008-10-28T18:13:00.001-07:00

I made his Halloween outfit for Jordan before she was born...I was feeling very crafty. I think Eric was a little bit impressed by it because he kept asking me if I made the whole thing or where did I buy it...It was fun to get all he different materials for her and to know that now she can wear it. And yes, she will be a bow head...like mother like daughter:)!

Playing dress up

2008-10-28T18:05:00.000-07:00

Cole is VERY into sunglasses. So, the other day we were at Gymboree and when he saw pink sunglasses, he said we had to buy those for "baby sister"...on a side note, he does know her name is Jordan, we partially at to blame for the baby sister name because we refer to her as baby sister all the time, but it is so cute...anyway, back to the shades...we bought them and today we had to pose her with them. Cole has just been amazing with her. He sometimes gives a little too big of a hug but his intentions are just to be loving. It is fun to see him kiss on her and tell her sweet little stories. He sings twinkle twinkle little star to her when she cries and says...it's okay...so precious!!

Bling Baby

2008-10-28T17:53:00.000-07:00

Mariana gave Jordan this precious shirt...she is definitely my little girl!! I thought she looked so precious and she is really smiling a lot!! It is fun to see her get a sweet little personality but I also am sad because she is truly getting so big so quickly!!

6 weeks old

2008-10-19T18:32:00.001-07:00

Jordan is now 6 weeks old. I can not believe how the time has flown by!! She is smiling all the time now and the other day during tummy time, she went from her tummy and flipped herself over onto her back. She is so much more alert now. She will stay awake during the day for 2 hour durations and looks at everyone and has such a sweet little personality. I savor each second because I realize how quickly they grow up!!

Me and My Little Buddy

2008-10-19T18:29:00.001-07:00

Cole loves his baby sister…he goes up to her and says “Hey little buddy” or “Hey little fella”, so here is Cole with his buddy just coloring at the table.

Our Little Pumpkins

2008-10-15T18:22:00.000-07:00

I took Cole and Jordan to St. Peter's pumpin patch. I can't believe I have two precious kiddos to take this year. I remember when we first took Cole there...he was about 9 months old and they are some of our favorite pictures.

Cole has been such an amazing big brother, I could not ask for him to be any better!! I was a little nervous about having him hold Jordan but I let him do with...with great guidance and close supervision....he did a great job. He seemed so proud to hold her and it just warmed my heart. I know that they both love each other dearly.

Then, the other day, Eric took Cole to Walmart...and Eric said that when Cole saw the little skeleton onesie, that Cole said he had to have it for baby sister. He is always so generous with her...even with scary little onesies...hehe!! Anyway, we put it on her and he was so excited and said...she looked good:)!

2008-09-17T11:37:00.000-07:00

We had shirts made for Cole and Eric, so they would match on the day she was born...they looked so cute and said Team Pravda on the front

On September 3, 2008 at 4:58 p.m., Jordan Nicole was born weighing 7lbs 12 oz and measuring 20 inches long!!

We feel so lucky and blessed to have her as part of our family. We know that both families are so excited to have her in our family as well, and to finally have the first girl on both sides.

When we reflect back, we realize that she truly is a miracle and that there is an answer to prayer. When I think that on Christmas Eve of 2007 I was on bed rest for my IVF embryo transfer and now I am holding my sweet little girl, how amazing!! Over the past 2 years we have been on an emotional and physical roller coaster and in the end it was a ride worth taking!!

Cole is loving having his baby sister around and has yet to ask us to take her back…so that is a good sign. He calls her a “he” but we are working on that. He always wants to know where “baby sister” is at all times and loves giving her sweet kisses. We are so fortunate to have the most amazing, perfect little boy and now our perfect little girl.

We appreciate everyone’s emails, phone calls and cards. We feel so loved by all of our friends and family and appreciate our relationship with each of you. Please come and visit us soon, we can not wait for you to meet our miracle little girl!!

One Week to go.....

2008-08-27T17:45:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that as of today, we have one week until we get to meet our precious little MIRACLE, Jordan Nicole!! I sure can feel her but I can't wait to see her!! She is such a big kicker...I did not realize how tame Cole was in my belly until now. They say each pregnancy is different, and that it is. We went to the doctor and all sounded great and looked great. I will be induced on Wednesday, September 3...it is funny how a date that means nothing to you, suddenly takes on this momentous value for the rest of your life. We are all so excited and so thrilled to be having this little girl. I am excited that I am able to bring a granddaughter into this world for both sides of the family. You would think after all these grand kids there would have been a girl but now Jordan will hold a special spot...a pink spot!! Here is a pic of me at Mother's day, which was in May and then today when I went to the dr....same dress, just a little more bump!! It is fun to see the changes your body goes through. Thanks again for every one'slove, support and prayers and we will keep you posted on the progress. Mother's Day 2008-May
Last Doctor's appointment...August 26, 200- 38 weeks!!

Fun in the Sun....with Friends!

2008-08-20T17:50:00.001-07:00

The other day, Cole and I had Mariana and Audrey over to swim. It was the most perfect day and the pool felt incredible. We have had such a nice summer and Cole and I have lived in the pool, but it is never as fun as when we have friends over. My little fish swam around and Audrey was doing great too. Mariana and I actually got to catch up some and play with the kiddos…as many moms know, these playdates sometimes end up with us chasing the kids and never getting to talk to each other.

Eric was nice enough to make us lunch…thanks for the yummy hot dogs!! After we went swimming, Audrey and Cole wanted to go into his playroom…otherwise known as mini ToysRus. I think Audrey found out that she is a tool girl…so Cole and she went to town on his little house. Cole proceeded to take his entire house apart and Audrey was hammering away with him. It was too cute to see how into their project they were.

Here are Audrey and Cole going to town on his house...Look at the concentration on their faces...after they left, Cole took the entire roof off...I wonder where he gets that from dada?!
A drop of water got on the camera but you can see them hanging out under the umbrella together.
Need I say anymore...
Here are our sweet friends...Mariana and Audrey are so fun to have over!!
Once again...need I say more...too cute kids...and two cute kids!!

Let the Countdown Begin...

2008-08-12T18:21:00.000-07:00

Well, it is official….only 3 more weekends to go and 3 weeks from tomorrow I will be induced…as long as Jordan does not pick her own date. I am 36 weeks and 1 day and went to my weekly ob/gyn appointment today. He said all is great and that I am just barely a fingertip dilated. It starts making it seem REALLY real when I hear the word dilated. So here is my bump and I am honestly going to miss being preggers but I am so excited to meet my little kicker in person. We feel so blessed to have made it through this pregnancy as well as we have and that we are going to actually be having a healthy little girl soon. Thanks for everyone for their love and support and keep your calendars marked for September 3!

This "sweet" shower brought to you by LISA & SARAH...

2008-07-28T08:12:00.000-07:00

Here is the adorable blanket that Barbie gave me at my shower. You can tell by all the great gifts from Barbie and my mom that both she and my mom are very excited about having the first granddaughter for both sides...how fun is that. I think Jordan has enough pink in her life...no one will ever mistake her for a boy:)!!
Cute booties from Stephanie...thanks!

On Saturday, my friend Lisa and her daughter hosted an amazingly "sweet" shower. Another neighbor Jennifer also helped out!! I say it was "sweet" because Lisa had a great idea to have a chocolaty dessert only shower. She way over did it and it was just amazing. The generosity that I felt was just above and beyond anything!! She had a white and dark chocolate fountain. More chocolate desserts than my little sweet tooth could imagine and she had a lady make the most amazing cake and cookies.

Here are Tiffany and Mariana...thanks to Tiffany for driving in from Tyler that morning...thanks chickee!!
Me and my mommy...she is the best and will now have one well dressed granddaughter. If you could see all the amazing gifts that she has given me, you would definitely realize that this is the first granddaughter for my parents.
Is this not the cutest shirt and definitely looks like it should be on our little girl...Mariana got this for her and now Jordan will have to live up to her shirt...I don't think that will be a problem!!
Lisa and Sarah not only gave an amazing shower but also this precious gift. It is a little tutu bottom and a top all monogrammed. I love monogramming but it is still so nice to get it already done for you:)!!
Thanks mom and dad...I never thought I would be SOOOOO excited over a breast pump but oh my goodness, it felt like Christmas!!

These are the adorable cookies that were handmade...are those not little works of art. Also, they taste good too...
Turn your head...here I am with sweet Mariana
The hostess with the mostest!! LISA!
Here are a lot of my friends and neighbors that joined us for the special day.
More friends...

Here I was...the bump is growing...5 weeks to go!!!!
All of the amazing loot...everyone really was so generous and giving and I am so grateful to all!!
The precious diaper wreath that Lisa had on the door to welcome everyone!!
Can you say sugar shock?!?! So yummy!!
Me and Tiffany...thanks again for driving in!!

I want to sincerely thank Lisa and Sarah again for such a beautiful shower and amazing memories. You are such a great friend!!

The 2008 Pravda Road Trip

2008-07-27T11:17:00.000-07:00

We decided that since I could not fly, we would do something that we really would never do...take a road trip. We were lucky enough that Barbie and Barry were going to join us because 2 extra sets of hands are always better when preggers and running after a 3 year old.

Our adventure Started out on a Saturday and we left bright and early for Louisiana. We stayed in Lake Charles at L'auberge du lac. Eric, Cole and I have stayed there before and it is a really fun spot for only being 3 hours away. They have a great lazy river and that Las Vegas hotel feel. We stayed there a few nights and then headed out on our long drive...7 hours to Destin, Florida. We stayed in Sandestin and had an amazing condo...which was fun for a change. We stocked the kitchen and made ourselves at home. It was a beautiful spot and white sand beaches. We stayed there 3 nights and enjoyed each day there. They had a great little village with shopping and eateries and that was a fun experience. Our 2nd night there, there was an incredible fireworks show right outside our balcony on the beach...we had the best view in town!! Then after that we headed back towards home. We stayed in Biloxi, Mississippi for 2 nights at Beau Rivage. It is owned by MGM grand and is very Bellagio like...which we obviously have a soft spot for!! Our last night there was also our 9 year anniversary and Barbie and Barry were kind enough to watch Cole while we went out for a romantic dinner. It was a great restaurant and wonderful memories...thanks mom too for that meal:)!! Our trip came to an end and another 7 hours back...I will say, that I am not a road trip girl at heart but this was an amazing experience and although I am glad I will be able to fly again, I have memories from this trip that will be like no other!!

Thanks to Eric for his wonderful driving...and to Barbie and Barry for all those 6am wake up calls from our sweet Cole!!
This is the luau tower we stayed in at Sandestin
This was us going out for our 9 year anniversary...where has the time gone?! The best 9 years of my life!! I love you Eric
Here is my preggo bump....just turn your head:)

Here was Cole doing a little put putting in Sandestin
Here is the view from our room in Sandestin...the condos on the beach are actually not as nice, so we had about a 3 minute walk...well worth it!
Barbie, Barry and Eric playing cards at night...this preggo chickee went to bed!
This is one view of the village...it was so much fun and there was a tram that took you here.
This was a great breakfast spot we ate in Sandestin...in the village.

Yes, it was corny but when I saw these, I thought it would be cute....we had matching gowns and I monogrammed our names on them.
Another beautiful day in Destin
Here is our sweet boy out on the balcony in Destin
Eric made us homemade pancakes each morning in Sandestin...thanks...and yummy!!
This is the village in Sandestin...it was so cute

I realized that most of my Louisiana and Biloxi photos are on my phone...sorry...

Rub a Dub Dub...a little cute boy in the...SINK?!?!

2008-07-27T10:35:00.001-07:00

Right before our vacation Cole decided....in his words...that we needed to "test" out his new swim toys and goggles that we were taking. So, what better place than the kitchen sink?!!! About a dozen towels on the floor later and one happy 3 year old, I think the toys passed the test.

Is that not the sweetest face you have ever seen...too cute!!

A Room Fit for a Princess

2008-07-09T17:53:00.001-07:00

Okay Mariana...no peeking at these pics young lady...

Here is Jordan's Princess room. There is definitely no wondering what gender our baby is...hehe!! I am so thrilled with how it turned out. This room would not be what it is without her dada's help!! Eric installed the chair rail moulding for me and painted the stripes...so precious!! I love the way we raised the moulding, it really made the room pop. Also, he installed the chandelier and curtains. I painted her name and the princess crown...with a ventilated mask, of course!! So, enjoy her room and hope we have many visitors to see it in person.

Here are the curtains Eric hung. The top part is the toile and the side panels have sweet little stars on them with tassels...love the tassels!!!
Here are her shelves. I need to put a few pictures in her frames...in my spare time.
Every princess needs a chandelier. I could not find the perfect shades, so Eric found some in the right color and I added the pink fringy stuff...also, Eric painted the sky in there when Cole was in this nursery and I still love it for Jordan. I am glad that one part of his nursery got to stay.
It is a little hard to see in the picture, but this is the princess crown that I painted, it was a fun project.
This is directly over her changing table and I painted this too...when I did this, I was kind of thinking we should have named her Zoe...much shorter...just kidding!!

Here is where the princess will sleep
You can sort of see the Jordan name that I painted above her changing table...between her name everywhere in her room and all of her clothes being monogrammed, I think she will be able to spell her name by 1 month!!
These are shelves which are directly across from her bed...those were so fun to decorate.
The pics do not do the rocker justice...it is pink minky fabric and it is SOOOO soft and comfy...I am sure I will be sitting in this chair at all hours of the night nursing my sweet little girl. What a miracle she is!!
Here is her precious bed...the tassels on the bedding are what made me choose it...so cute!

Jordan's Pink Baby Shower...

2008-07-09T09:54:00.001-07:00

Jordan had the most amazing baby shower...thanks to my wonderful hostesses....my mom, Barbie and Mariana. I was surrounded by all of my friends and family and had a wonderful day. The room was incredible at Royal Oaks and turned out even better than I could have expected. I truly felt so blessed and excited to have all these memories to last me a lifetime. Jordan is a lucky girl to have all these people care so much about her. Everyone was so generous towards her and she got some precious gifts. Cole and Eric came up at the end and Cole got a present and then helped me open a few....he was so excited about all the pink stuff for baby sister. It is so fun to watch him be so "tickled pink" about the upcoming arrival of his baby sister. I just want to thank everyone for a day that I will never forget. Also, thanks to Eric for making sure that Cole had a great guys day while mama was out doing the girly girl thing!!
Cole helping open the beautiful stroller that Barbie got for Jordan...Cole has sort of taken this gift over.
Here I am...yes, that is a little bump there...

Here was the gorgeous cake table and check out the beautiful surroundings!!
These were the little mini cakes that everyone got...how cute is that?!
My best friend Mariana...who knew that when we became friends at 11 that we would be having babies showers!! Thanks for all your help!!
Here were all the table settings...no details were left out...
Here are all of my wonderful friends...thanks ladies for sharing the day with me.

Me and my sweet mama...thanks for all that you do each day to make my life so special!!
Here was Jordan's sign in table...how cute is that sign in book...thanks Barbie for that precious gift!!
Once you signed in, you were welcomed into the main area, what a great set up
Here was our intimate table set up...it was the perfect size group.
Thanks again to everyone!

Viva Las Vegas

2008-07-09T09:43:00.000-07:00

I am so far behind on my blogging...but better late than never!! Here are a few pics...Cole being a little fish in the water. It is amazing how quickly he took to swimming. He has just done an amazing job. Also, mama and dada got to go on a date night...since bubbie and zeyda watched him....thanks guys!!

The vacation started out great for Cole because we took a stretch hummer limo from the airport...he was SOOOO excited!! We stayed at the Wynn and the weather could not have been more amazing. We also rented a car for a few days and drove up to hoover dam. We felt right at home because we actually rented a new lincoln navigator. We went swimming each day...lots of fun shopping and of course lots of vegas eating!!

Our Sweet Beauty Jordan Nicole

2008-06-24T18:49:00.001-07:00

Today we went for our 3d ultrasound. We were all excited...especially Cole...he was just amazed at the idea that he was going to get to see baby sister in my tummy...it is pretty amazing!!

We did a 3d ultrasound when I was pregnant with Cole but he was shy in the womb. Jordan was a little less shy and we got some pretty good face shots...that's what the photos are...of her head, so look for the nose and lips and it should all make sense.

We did not know if Cole would really be into it but he was awesome!!...of course!! He sat on Eric's lap and watched while the tech did the ultrasound...such a good big brother. Before we left today, he told me he was going to give baby sister a kiss...how can you not love that?!?!

We hope you enjoy our little beauty and all of you UT fans will get a kick out of her hook 'em horns...that was when we first started and Eric and I were cracking up at it!!

Sidewalk chalk is just better on the water....

2008-04-09T18:07:00.000-07:00

Today Cole decided that our driveway was not fun for sidewalk chalk....so he decided that we should walk down our street to the dock. It actually was a great time and a beautiful view. We get to see the water in our backyard each day but it is nice to see it from a different spot in the neighborhood. The ducks in the lake are so use to us that they just came on up while we were coloring with our sidewalk chalk. Cole LOVED that part...not sure the ducks did when he decided he needed to get a closer view of them...the ducks decided the lake was safer!! I was actually not bringing the camera with us but Cole brought it and said that we needed to take picture of the ducks...I am so glad that he brought it because once again, I got to capture those priceless moments that you never get back. My little Picasso at work
He was really getting into it...soon he dumped ALL the chalk out and by the end we were both covered in chalk.
Here are some of our usual friends...I think they see Cole and automatically think food. Whenever we walk outside in our backyard, they will come running up...we sure have trained them!!
Here was one of Cole's attempts to get the ducks...

From a boy to a Man!!

2008-04-09T18:00:00.000-07:00

He is a pro...his dada shows him how to get every nook and cranny
Look at his precision...
Now that is a face who is really concentrating on his technique
Wait...I think I missed a spot
Oops...almost got it...dada would be proud!!

Every little boy wants to grow up to be just like their daddy. Well, Cole is no exception...if Eric does something, Cole wants to do it...If Eric eats something, Cole wants to eat it...and if Eric shaves...you got it...Cole wants to shave! He told me the other day when we went to walmart that he needed his own can of shave cream...so here is his own personal can...look at his sweet looks!!

Our Cool Little Dude Sleeper

2008-04-05T18:17:00.001-07:00

I was putting Cole down for a nap and he insisted on wearing his sunglasses to bed. I thought that after he fell asleep I would take his glasses off...so I did and he woke up and put them back on...so instead of waiting again, I just let him sleep with them on. He slept for his entire nap with them on...it was too funny. I was nervous that taking a picture might wake him up but I could not let this kodak moment go...so I snapped the picture and our sleeping cool dude slept right through it. I love these moments that you can never capture again!!

Hippity Hop....here comes the Easter Bunny

2008-04-05T18:06:00.000-07:00

Another sideways pic...here was our little cutie pie
Here are Michael and Cole at Royal Oaks
Bubbie and Zeyda had some fun treats for him too...I think the tattoo on his arm ads to the sophistication of his Easter outfit!!

Let the Hunt Begin
Here was one of his Easter baskets
Cole found some of the goodies
Wow mama....look at what I got...
I got CASH!

Easter was so fun this year. Cole was really into it and that makes it extra special. Unfortunately, I was sick and did not get to out for Easter but I was there to see all the treats that the Easter bunny brought for our precious little guy. He woke up and was not quite sure why the stairs were littered with eggs but as soon as we told him that the Easter bunny brought him treats, he was into it. He did not want to put any eggs into his basket, he just wanted to open them all where they were...one of those go with the flow moments. He got candy and his favorite..."CASH". It was so funny because he would open the eggs that had money in them and say "mama, I got CASH"...it was one of those priceless little moments.

Later that day, Eric took Cole and met with my family and his family at Royal Oaks...I hear it was a great time...too bad I had to miss it. Then he took Cole to Bubbie and Zeyda's house for another Easter egg hunt....the Easter bunny was busy this year.

We can not wait for next year to see how much he enjoys having an egg hunt with his baby sista!!

It's Rodeo Time

2008-04-05T17:51:00.000-07:00

Here is Cole on one of many rides!!
When he got on the horse he started saying...yeehaw....giddy up horsey and bouncing around...I think the poor horse needed a break after Cole's ride
Here is my rodeo outfit...try piecing together clothes when your regular clothes don't quite button and the maternity stuff falls off...
Sorry for the sideways pic....but here is Tex and baby Tex
You should have seen our little speed racer. I was nervous that he would not know what to do or want to hop out...but he got into it and started bumping all the kids...instead of wanting to hop out, he did not want to get out!!
Future Racer
How could you not love that little face!!

Sorry that this post is late...where does the time go

Anyway, we took Cole to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and boy, oh boy did he have a blast!! He had to ride many of the rides by himself because I am pregnant and Eric is too tall...I thought he might be nervous to go on them but of course, our fearless little man was ready for anything.

Rub a Dub Dub...a Little Coley in the Tub...

2008-03-12T17:15:00.000-07:00

Cole just had to take a bath in our bath...a few minutes later and half a bottle of bubbles and you can see he is the little person covered in bubbles...after that night, it took one week to get him to take baths in his bath...he only wanted to take it in ours because he can turn the jets on!!

Our Precious Little Miracle Girl

2008-03-04T06:11:00.000-08:00

Here is the 3D Ultrasound that we got of Jordan Nicole. It was such a gift to see her this early on and this clearly. She is 10 weeks and 4 days here...the biggest blessing is that I am now 13 weeks and 2 days...YAHOO for the 2nd trimester!! We truly feel that I am carrying a little miracle inside of me. We are so excited to get to see our daughter in September...it is going to be here before we know it!!

Practicing for Baby Sista

2008-03-04T05:58:00.000-08:00

Cole has some twin Dora babies and he calls them his baby sistas...he has been practicing with them...he reads to them, feeds them, cuddles them and sleeps them. It is so cute to see how he is with them...let's hope practice maks perfect!!

Handsome Fellow

2008-03-04T05:54:00.001-08:00

Here is a picture of Cole getting ready to go to a "fancy restaurant". He was so excited and did great!! We went to Perry's Steakhouse and ate for 2 and half hours and he had a blast!!

My Baby Sista...

2008-03-04T05:35:00.000-08:00

Cole is so excited about being a big brother!! Anything that is pink is for his "baby sista". Every time we are out shopping and he sees a pink anything, he will say "mama, let's get that for my baby sista"...if we do buy it, he runs inside and puts it in the crib. Also, when he buys something he wants to get it for his baby sista!! You might think that he is just trying to get more toys but he actually does not play with any of her gifts and makes sure they are in a special spot.

My friend Tiffany sent Jordan a precious little outfit the other day...when we got the package, Cole ran to open it up and when he saw that it was a pink dress, he exclaimed..."it's for my baby sista...we need to hang it up"...so off he ran to the nursery and hung it up...so precious!!

We are hoping that he is going to enjoy his "baby sista" this much when she comes home!!

Here are a few pics of Cole and his baby sista gifts...he had to get her a doll that matched his...but hers had to be purple...then he wanted these bath toys for her and when we got home he put them in our bath and said to save them for baby sista!!

Jordan is getting bigger!

2008-02-02T10:49:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we went for our 2nd ultrasound. Because of the IVF process, you go for ultrasounds every 2 weeks in the begining...so fun:)!! Anyways, yesterday Jordan measured right on track and her heartbeat was strong and loud!! We could see her legs and she was doing a hand stand on her head...it is so amazing what you can already see! We were so excited to see her progress and can't wait to see how big she will be in another 2 weeks. After that, I will be signed off from my IVF doctor and released to my regular Ob/Gyn...I can't believe we are almost done with the first trimester. This is truly a miracle and blessing!!

It's a Girl!!

2008-01-18T09:59:00.000-08:00

Yahoo, we got to see our ONE precious beautiful baby girl today!! The heartbeat was perfect, 130 and she was measuring perfectly as well!! We are sooooo thrilled and feel so blessed to know that Jordan Nicole will join us in early September. I will post the ultrasound pictures later...I am off to shop:)~

She Said YES!!

2008-01-16T10:26:00.000-08:00

We wanted to congratulate Mike (Eric's brother) and Lindsay. They got engaged on January 12 and we are so excited for them. We also wanted to welcome Lindsay to the family!!

We Clowned Around With Cole!!

2008-01-12T16:30:00.000-08:00

Today was an amazing day. When you plan for an outdoor party in January, you are never quite sure what you will get. Well, we got perfection!! It was almost 70 with not a cloud in the sky and not too much wind. I don't think we could have ordered a more perfect day.

Cole had an incredible time and so did we!! We had our family over on his real birthday last weekend and he loved that time. When I told him all week that he was going to get to have another party, he kept saying "Holy Cow"...it was too funny!!

We had so many wonderful friends and family come over to celebrate Cole's 3rd birthday. We had almost 70 people and 30 of them were kids. Cole loved showing all the kids all of his fun outdoor places to play. I think Cole did not know what to play with next...then after the kids thought they had seen it all, Straws the Clown showed up. He did a great job with balloon animals and face painting for all the kids. Scott and Mariana's little girl Audrey was mesmerized by him, it was so fun to watch her.

The kids got to enjoy their "circus" hot dogs and chips and of course some yummy cake. We are so grateful to all of those who came and all of the generous gifts that Cole received. We look forward to seeing everyone again soon!!

Happy 3rd Birthday Cole!!

This is from his real birthday on the 5th...here goes our little road racer!!

More presents from today!! As Cole would say..."Holy Cow"
Dada and Cole after a long day of partying!!
Here is Cole with his safety glasses that came with his new weed wacker...he officially has EVERY toy out there...so if anyone wants to play, come on over!!

Here is our famous truck bouncer. Cole has had this every year since his first birthday. It never loses its appeal and he gets soooo excited to watch the men blow it up.
There were fun spots everywhere...some kids were in the trampoline, others were in the sandbox...no one ever got bored!!

This was once everyone left...his cheeks were still rosy when he went to sleep...he was worn out but had an amazing day.

I could not believe that Eric got this amazing picture of Cole holding up 3 fingers and bouncing mid air...this is a definite frameable pic!!
This is when the house was quiet and all the fun was about to begin!!

This is Straws the Clown...he did a great job with all the kids. Everyone got a balloon animal and their face painted...I think Audrey was definitely the most mesmerized by him. We know who she needs at her party this year!!

We knew the party was going to be a huge success when we woke up today to this beautiful sunrise...life is definitely better on the water!!

My Big Fat Beta...

2008-01-06T16:10:00.000-08:00

Well, some of you know that through this process I have frequent testing to make sure all is on track. Well, today I went for another Beta test...and my numbers were right on track!! We are so excited and our first ultrasound will be on the 18th to find out just how many little precious ones we will have!! Thanks for everyone support!!

Happy 3rd Birthday to our Precious Cole!!

2008-01-05T10:55:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that 3 years ago today I was at the hospital having Cole. I know everyone says it, but it really does seem like yesterday. Although, I can not remember my life without him. He is truly the most amazing gift and such a precious little pumpkin.

He is able to recognize most letters in the alphabet now, so reading is surely close behind. He is definitely the tall kid and so smart. He knows everything...I am not prejudiced either:) He knows every make of every car....he is our son!

We love him so much and I am so excited to be his mama and get to spend this special time with him. Today all of our families are coming to celebrate and then next week is the big shindig!!

Love you sweet Cole

Mama and Dada

Our Prayers Have Been Answered!

2008-01-04T10:04:00.001-08:00

Oh my gosh, I am still in shock. But yes, I am pregnant!!!!!! We are so excited and still in shock...did I already say that:) I went this morning to get my blood drawn and they just called me with a big beta number...a different kind of pg test. I will go back in on Sunday to make sure that my numbers are going up and so any prayers during this time are greatly appreciated. We are praying that I have a healthy pregnancy, healthy baby or babies and that there are no bumps along the way.

I appreciate all the love, support and prayers from all of our friends and family during this time. We have had quite a year of medical ups and downs and to know that we are starting out 2008 with adding more children to our family is such an amazing miracle and blessing!!

We are going to share the news with my family tonight because we are going out to dinner...this is the shirt I am going to wear. Then we will share it with Eric's parents as well. Now, the tough part is going to be stalling them for the rest of the day.

Oh, you might be wondering why I have 1000 home pregnancy tests....well, no one but Eric knew that I was taking them...but I got a slightly positive one a week ago, then they kept getting darker. But I knew that meant I was pregnant but I honestly did not believe it and I knew that the beta number was the important thing...because of our past losses. So, I guess those suckers were right and I knew that I should have bought stock in them!!!

Love to all and I will keep everyone updated on my Sunday numbers and then an ultrasound will follow in 2 weeks...please keep those positive prayers coming!!!

Merry Christmas

2008-01-03T07:03:00.000-08:00

This Christmas was both an amazing and strange Christmas. First of all, I was on bed rest 3 days leading up to the day of Christmas, so I did not get to participate in all the festivities. Also, my whole family was in Utah visiting my brother Steven and his family. You might think that with all those changes Christmas was not the same but it truly was one of our most memorable and wonderful Christmas times.

Cole is really starting to understand Santa and all the festivities that encompass Christmas for us. He left Santa some cookies and was so excited that Santa left him a note. He also got so many new toys...of course, we now have a mini toys r us in our house. He got a new kitchen...that is what he told Santa he wanted...it is a walk in with...yes...hardwoods in it...so fun!! I wish they had toys like that when I was little. Okay, now I am sounding old. He also got some new tools, because he is our little handy man, like his dada. He got a new ball pit and so many other toys I just don't know where to begin.

This time of year he gets soooo many toys because not only is it Christmas but on the 5th of January he will be 3, so another round of toys will come. It is hard to know what to get him because after Christmas he definitely has it all.

Eric and I enjoyed our time together with Cole and The Provada family. I was not at Christmas Eve at Barbie and Barry's house but I heard they had a great time...I know Cole enjoyed Mike's dog Vegas...not sure if Vegas enjoyed Cole.

We know that this has been an amazing year and we are looking forward to seeing what 2008 brings us!!

Happy Birthday to the Love of My Life

2007-12-09T13:56:00.001-08:00

Well, 31 years ago on December 10, 1976 the best husband in the world was born. I am so lucky to have met Eric and I am so glad that he is part of my life. He is such a wonderful man, husband, father and son.

I hope that you have a wonderful birthday and that you have had a great birthday weekend!!

As you can see, he just sort of looks like Cole when he was little...haha...and yes, I promise this is a picture of Eric and not of Cole. I love you very much!! Happy Birthday! Love Susan

It's Snowing Outside...In Houston?!?!

2007-12-07T18:26:00.000-08:00

It's official our weather is crazy...90 one day, 30 and snowing the next....gotcha!! Okay, we really just went to the Rice Village Holiday festival. Each year they have several events going on throughout Rice Village. This year, they had snow blown in, real reindeer, of course, Santa paid a visit and several other fun kid areas. I know it is funny but it was actually warm enough to be in shorts, a tank top and flip flops but we still got in there and made some snow balls. We are going to have to take Cole to visit real snow soon, so that he doesn't just think that it appears in random parking lots.

Cole had a blast with all the kids and they were all throwing snow balls at each other. Cole has a good aim and got his dada right in the head. Cole came up to me and looked sort of perplexed and wanted me to make his hands warm again...he is truly a native Houstonian child. Today it was 82 and I think tomorrow it will be 85...wow, winter in Houston...isn't it a beautiful thing!!

Tis the season to be...Decorating

2007-12-05T18:49:00.000-08:00

Growing up, I always had the most amazing Christmas holidays and the most incredible memories. I have to say that my parents would really go all out and made sure that Christmas was so special for all of us. I will say that there might have been one little thing lacking, and this is no offense to you mom...you know how I am...but our house had the beautiful Christmas tree and it always felt festive, but for me, I always wanted our house to be overflowing with Christmas decor. So, here is where my problem starts. Now, I have gone to the other side and decorated every corner of my house. Don't get me wrong, there are a few corners that have not been decorated for the holidays...yet...but otherwise, I want every inch of the house to be filled with Christmas!! I have decided that because I over decorate for the holidays, that Cole will probably grow up and not even want to put up a tree. He will say, "Christmas was great at our house, except that my mom decorated every inch of the house...now I just want a minimalist Christmas feel."

I have decorated all the downstairs. Then, Cole has his own tree, which I will try to post later. We also have a themed tree in our game room...which I will also post later. I just love the holidays and I LOVE decorating for them. I know that I like to say that I am decorating it for everyone else but I know that it brings me such joy to see it each day.

So, from our little Santa's workshop to yours...Merry Christmas!!

It's a Bird...It's a Plane...It's Spider Cole

2007-12-04T10:32:00.001-08:00

Cole got this spider man outfit from Bubbie and Zeyda...he has pretty much worn it now for 2 days straight!! He wears the mask from time to time and yes, we have had to go out in public with it on. He is so cute because when we take his picture with the outfit on, he says cheese, not realizing that we can not see his mouth through the mask. He insisted on wearing it for his nap yesterday and today. He also wore it to the park and to bed last night. So, I will keep you updated on the adventures of Spider Cole

He is Officially a Big Kid!!

2007-12-04T10:23:00.000-08:00

Well, I knew Cole was growing up fast but now I realize that he is literally growing up...he had to get a new car seat because he was too tall for his old one. We went to babies r us and he was so excited to find a new car seat. He tested them all out and decided that he needed the new Britax Regent...I think that this seat is bigger than my seat in my car. It is amazing to realize that my little baby is growing up. He looks so little now in the new car seat but it is definitely luxurious. He already figured out that he has a spot for his sippy cup and his Mickey Mouse sunglasses and he pulls his feet up into the seat. The first day that we got them, we had to go for a drive in my car and then in dada's car so that he could try out both of his new car seats. He said that they were so comfy!! I asked what we were going to do with his old car seats and he said save them for his baby sisters...yes plural....so we will see if he is psychic or not:)

I am Thankful for...

2007-11-27T18:38:00.000-08:00

so many wonderful things!! Family of course and wonderful friends!! This year we decided to do Thanksgiving a little differently. Ususally, we go to both of our families houses and run around over filling our bellies and are worn out by the end of the day. Don't get me wrong, I love seeing both families and it has been great to do this each year. This year we decided to try something different. We actually got to stay at home and we made our own feast. It was so much fun. It is nice to start our own family traditions with Cole. We did half catered and half homemade...did not want to just totally go crazy this year...hehe! Anyways, Pappa's did an awesome job on the turkey for us and if I do say so myself, the homemade trimmings were quite yummy.

Later that evening, we had both families over and it was so great to see everyone. It was a very relaxing and enjoyable Thanksgiving, that we actually got to spend in our home. I am thankful for new family traditions!

Christmas Decor

2007-11-27T18:35:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year. It is such a wonderful thing to see all the families out decorating and spending time together. As you can see, Cole and dada were out decorating the yard...notice the clothing...only here can we decorate for Christmas when it is 85 outside. Cole was a great helper and the house is brightly lit, so that Santa definitely will not miss our house.

My Little Toothless Love

2007-11-27T18:29:00.000-08:00

As many of you may know, Cole was injured about 6 months ago after riding on a little push car hummer...long story short, he did some real damage to his 2 front teeth and they had to finally pull them 2 weeks ago. He was such a trooper and did such an awesome job!! We were sooooo proud of him...even Mickey Mouse got to go with him. He got a sticky hand for each of us when he was done, so all in all it was a good day for him. We had ordered him some "baby dentures" but when we went back to have them put in, they were not fitting properly....so, we all decided that he has adapted so well (as these precious kiddos do) that he will just remain my toothless love!! Cole, mama and dada are so proud of you!!

My First Time Blogging

2007-11-22T14:16:00.000-08:00

HI Friends and Family

Well, Mariana...I did it...I finally have a blog spot!! I am just trying it out so I hope I am doing it all correctly...Look for more updates and pics on our family!!