Little Jackson Man

Welcome Spring!!!!

2010-03-11T13:19:00.003-05:00

Hello there to all of my blogger friends!! I know, it's been way too long, but I've had a ton of things going on in my life. For one, I am now divorced and will be moving from my nice home. I am a bit upset about this, but everyone keeps reminding me that it is a step in my future. I will put some pictures on soon of the new place. My computer is still down, but will hopefully be back up and running soon.

I also want to say Congratulations to Jimmy and Diane and their family!!!! We have a new baby!! Madilynn has blessed us with her arrival. She is precious! Can't wait to love her.

Jackson is 3 years old now. We didn't have his birthday yet because of me moving, so I will be planning a party soon. He is amazing and growing more and more everyday. He is talking a mile a minute and he cracks us up!! I plan on sending him to pre-school in the fall.

I am also enjoying my job. I am at Central in the pre-school. It has been a great year and I have grown so close to all my kids. We have 20 three and four year olds!!!! I am definitely ready for summer though. You can't beat the 3 months off!!

I will post again soon. I promise. Hope this finds everyone well.

2009-08-13T15:43:00.004-04:00

Jackson loved putting the flags out for the 4th this year.

My flowers are so pretty this year. Since we had to take our trees down last year due to Ike coming through, we have soooo much more sun. I was able to plant lots of color.

Jackson, my little fish.

2009-08-13T15:11:00.003-04:00

Swimming at Mowmaw Mary's

Snacktime!

Swimming at Mowmaw and Grandad's

For anyone who needs a good floaty, this thing is fantastic!!! I had a bodysuit for him and it rubbed his chin raw. Mary found this at Wal-mart in the sporting goods section. It is approved for a boat lifevest. He loves it and swims like a fish.

Jackson and Mama under the diving board. He loves to go to the deep end.

Too Cute!!!

2009-08-13T14:47:00.005-04:00

Watch out Aunt Angela, Jackson is already telling him things to do. Look how sweet..Gavin is really listening to him.

Angela and Gavin came to see us the other day. Jackson just loves Gavin. He doesn't realize that he is just little, and thought that Gavin would like to rock in the rocking chair really fast and hard. They were really cute together. Gavin is growing sooo fast. He has changed a bunch since I took these. I'll have to get the new ones on here soon. We love you Gavin and come see us again soon.

I LOVE this grin!!! Looks just like his mommy!

Loving boys!!

Of course, Crazy Daisy has to be in the picture. She loves kids though!

July Wedding

2009-08-11T15:12:00.004-04:00

Most July weddings are hot hot hot! Not this one. On July 18th, we headed over to Buckeye Lake. Eric's good friend got married at the Buckeye Lake Yacht Club. What a beautiful place to be married. It poured on our way over, stopped enough for the ceremony, and then poured during dinner, which was all outside. We did have an awesome rainbow during the ceremony and afterwards. It didn't even bother the bride or groom, they were very happy and we all had a great time.

Dave, waiting anxiously for his bride, with his brother Brian beside him.
Dave and Allison Thomas

Eric, Dave, Jon and Allison

The view from our seats. It was beautiful!

2009-08-11T14:53:00.003-04:00

I was on facebook the other day, and a friend of mine, Christy, had uploaded her husband's picture and put it in these photos from years ago. So I decided I would do the same. I have laughed so hard at these pictures. The bad part about it is that our kids will do the same thing to themselves when they get older and laugh at our old "do's". The first one is my brother and me, he will kill me when he realizes what I've done

This one isn't too bad, I think this one is from 2000.

1992

1990

1984 Sorry, uploaded this one twice.

1976 I think I look like my mom in this, she had hair like this.

1972

1960

1952

Working world, here I come!!

2009-08-11T14:40:00.003-04:00

Well, not sure if any of you know, but I got a job. I was hired by Coshocton City Schools for the Pre-school teaching assistant job at Central. I really wasn't wanting to work until Jackson was in school fulltime, but Eric has not found a job, so I had to find work. I am lucky enough that Beth Buker has taken Jackson. She is a wonderful person and I have heard nothing but good about her. She also goes to my church and it is such a blessing to know that a Christian is going to be with my son. That was very important to me. I have never left him with anyone but my in-laws, my parents or close friends. I took him today for the first time and he did fine. I think it was harder on me than him. I left him for about 2 hours. I met with the other teacher that will be in the room with me. She is awesome!! I think we will get along great. This is her first year at Coshocton. She has taught other places and she is glad to be able to not have to drive anywhere. I will only be working M-Th, which will be nice to have a three day weekend. We don't have any kids on Fridays. We will have 20!! three and four year olds!!..what have I gotten myself into? I have to keep telling myself that it will be good for Jackson to be with other kids, as much as it is killing me. I told Carrie to not worry if I was a little weepy the first week. I am very glad to be going to Central to work. The people are really great there and I will be excited to be a part of it. Wish me luck!!!

2009-07-29T10:46:00.002-04:00

I was watering the other day and it was getting into the afternoon, so I was watering close to the roots so my flowers wouldn't burn. Out came a little snake. If you look closely towards my mum, you can see his head sticking out of the hole he climbed down. I'm not afraid of snakes, but it freaked me out a bit not knowing it was there.

Here are a couple of pics of the pets we have up in the back yard. A mama with her twin babies.

Better late than never...

2009-07-14T01:21:00.000-04:00

Better late than never...
Well, I said I would update this weekend and here it is Monday and I'm just now updating...better late than never!!
JUNE 15, 2009:
On June 15th, we headed to The James around 4:30 in the morning. The drive over seemed to take an eternity. We just didn't know what we were in for and what to expect. After registering, we headed to the 4th floor to pre-op. After getting changed into the good ole' hospital attire, stuck a few times, iv's hooked up and being asked hundreds of questions...they asked me to step out of the area to put his epidural in. I really wanted to watch since I had one for my c-section, but they said that alot of people pass out and they didn't want to have to put me in a bed next to him. When I finally got to go back in, he was pretty relaxed and I don't think he remembers anything from that point on. We said good-bye and they wheeled him out of the room and through the "big double doors" that say, Operating Room, Do not enter, Proper Attire Required. I don't think I will ever forget the way I felt when those "big double doors" closed. In a few hours, we would be told whether he had cancer or not. What a surreal moment. Back to the atrium waiting area that I had been in during the last surgery. Penny, Ralph and Wendy were there with me this time. Around 9:25, a lady came over to me and said that Eric went into surgery at 9:19. I can't describe the feeling I had during that time. I was glad that I had people with me, which made the time pass a little easier...although, it still felt like forever. Around 11:10, I saw Dr. Ross come into the atrium. I went over right away and he told me the words that I wanted to hear. "We don't think it's cancer. It looks benign. We will still do some testing on it and want the mass to have different tests run to see what it is, but it's not looking like it is malignant. He is doing fine and someone will be calling to let you know what room he is in." I went over and told the family and just broke down. So many emotions had been running ramped through me and I had been trying to be strong through everything. I called my mom and couldn't even really get anything out because I was crying. I needed to let it out. Around 1:15, the lady came over and said that they were taking Eric to his room and we could head up there. He was in room 963. We arrived at the room before they had got there with him. When they arrived at the room, they said we could come in after they put him in the bed and transferred all the tubes and iv's and got his vitals. Finally, we were able to go in. He was pretty quiet. Again, he had the vent tube down his throat and was a bit raspy. The epidural was still in, which was distributing pain meds at a slow pace and was controlled and locked, and he had a hand pump for more pain meds. He also had the catheter in as well as his chest tube that was draining fluid off and around the lung. I told him that they didn't think it was cancer. I don't know if it really registered right away. He was very groggy and sleepy. Penny, Ralph and Wendy left and he slept for a bit. When he woke up, he was a bit nauseous and they gave him some Demerol. Around 5pm, they arrived with the "liquid diet" dinner. He did drink some broth and drank some soda, which came right back up. We think now that it was the Demerol. Because he had some at another point and he felt sick again. Around 9:30, I headed to Stephen and Sarah's to shower and grab a bite to eat. I showered and then left to go back to the hospital. Well, Stephen and Sarah had just moved not too long ago to Westerville, and I'm not too familiar with the area yet....lost I was! I didn't make the turn I was supposed to and ended up in an area I really wouldn't want my worst enemy to go. It was also 12:30 in the morning. Construction was started that same day on 315, so most of the on ramps were closed. Then I got on 315 north and needed to go 315 south. It was crazy. I finally got back to the hospital around 1:30 in the morning. No sleep that night!! The chair in Eric's room did lay back, if you were 300 pounds, it may stay back. I didn't have enough weight to keep it reclined, so every time I tried to lay back, it would spring back up. It was not a fun night.
JUNE 16, 2009:
I had now been up for about 30 hours. I really don't know how I functioned...the body is an amazing thing. Just when you think you can't go anymore, you do. Eric was doing ok. Chelsey, our favorite nurse, got Eric in the chair that morning. He didn't look too well and kept on complaining about his catheter. It was giving him all kinds of pain. He told me he felt a little nauseous and I gave him his tub. Before I knew it, he was passed out. Scared me. I kept saying Eric, Eric, Eric. Nothing. The nurse ran over and yelled for help. This all happened in about a matter of a minute. He finally came to and we got him back in bed pretty quick. They took his blood pressure and it was 97/44. Needless to say, they kept a close eye on him. Eric has high blood pressure and has been on medicine for it for about 9 years. But, the pain meds and anaesthesia make your bp go down. They decided to take his chest tube out, which I got to watch. Loved that. It was so cool to watch them pull it out of him. Then it was time to take the catheter out. We got him in the chair and the nurse deflated the balloon and tried to pull it out. It didn't and wouldn't come out. She tried twice and poor Eric was in horrible pain. They decided to let the dr. try. He ended up cutting the tube and telling Eric to relax and yanked it out of him. He let out a sound that could be heard down the hall. His parents were out there when it happened and they heard him. Then we realized why he had been having so much discomfort from it. The tip of it had fallen to the side and was coming out sideways instead of longways. I can't even imagine. Only Eric!! I left around 7 that night to go shower and eat. Sarah took me out to eat, I showered and headed back to the hospital. I took the right turns and had a much easier trip this time. Got back and they had given Eric some higher doses of meds. They weren't working well for him. He has a high tolerance for things and they needed to up them. Around midnight that night (I'm now going on about 45 hours with no sleep), the nurse gave Eric some dilotted (STRONG pain killer) and rolled a cot in for me to sleep on. My head hit the pillow and I was out.
JUNE 17, 2009:
I woke up to the team of pain management doctors standing in the room. They were trying to get Eric's pain under control to send him home. He also had an x-ray that showed he had a slight pnumothorax, which meant he had a small leak in his lung where air was escaping. They told us that we needed to watch his breathing and to continue to do his breathing exercise with the machine they gave us. We got the go ahead around 11 in the morning that they were letting him go home. We had a few more doctors and people in to give us instructions. He was told that he was not to drive for a month and to not lift anymore than 10 pounds for a month...which meant that he was not to pick Jackson up!! There were a lot more restrictions and we signed papers and headed home. Now, the ride home was not any ordinary ride home. Every little bump that you normally don't feel, Eric felt. He also had to ride in the back seat because we couldn't figure out how to shut my passenger airbag off. He wasn't allowed to sit where an airbag would have a chance to hit him. We got home and I went to the pharmacy to get his meds. We were so happy to finally see Jackson. We missed him terribly. That was the longest that we had gone without seeing him. Eric tried to sleep in the bed that night and needless to say, it was too painful for him. He was used to the hospital bed mechanically lifting him up and down. Every muscle he was used to using to get up and down was not working and was hurting horribly. So his parents had brought a recliner over and that is where he spent the next two weeks. We were scheduled to go back to have his staples removed and more information on what the mass was on June 30. Those two weeks seemed to take forever. On June 30, we headed back over and had a chest x-ray done and then met with one of Dr. Ross's pa's (physician assistant's). He explained to us that they are thinking that he has what they call Sarcoidosis. It is a fungal disease that he will have for the rest of his life. They took his staples out and said that his incisions looked pretty good. They recommended us to a Pulmonologist. They deal with lung diseases and we are scheduled to go on August 18. They also lifted some of his restrictions. As long as he wasn't taking any pain meds and his range of motion was good, he could drive and pick Jackson up carefully with the other arm. I have done a ton of reading on Sarcoidosis and came to find out that it is more common in women and African Americans. It is not contagious and is usually treated with Steroids unless things come back in his lung and the steroids don't take care of it, more surgery may be needed. We are hoping that taking the mass out will just fix the problem. We will find more information out on the 18. He is feeling good and is doing more and more each day. We are so thankful for family and friends that have stopped to see us, sent cards and money, brought food and especially for all of you who have been praying for us. We will never forget how truly blessed we are to have such caring people in our lives. I will let you all know what we find out in August.

New Update...

2009-06-11T12:47:00.002-04:00

On Monday, June 8th, we headed back to the James for a CT Scan of Eric's lung. They wanted to compare the mass from the last CT scan that he had in Coshocton, which was done on March 28th. They informed us that if the mass had stayed the same or grown, they would proceed to take some of the lung. After his scan, we went over to Dr. Ross's office to find out if the biopsies on his right side lymph nodes were back. They were and we were told that they were benign. Yea!!!! Thank God!!!! So here we go again...wait to see what the scan results show. The next day, I spoke with Dr. Ross's assistant and she told me that she was trying to open the scans from Coshocton and couldn't open their disc...imagine that. She also said that from what she could tell, we would probably most likely be headed for surgery. The measurements she gave me didn't seem to be that big. When I asked her about that, she told me that in the general scheme of things, that isn't very big, BUT, it is big in the lung, because there shouldn't be anything there. She also said it's like taking an apple and testing a small tiny piece of it, you won't know what you are dealing with until you get to the core of that apple. She said that everyone would rest better at night knowing that they got it out and didn't miss any cancer, if that is what it is. I have a feeling that the reason they wanted to do the scan again was to see if it had gone away, and it didn't. So there you have it, surgery is scheduled for Monday, June 15th, and I should know more today. Dr. Ross was going to do some comparing to the scans today, so waiting to hear back from him. Not assigned a time yet, will let you all know more when I do. Probably a 5 day stay at the James. Keep on praying!!!! We appreciate it.

Update...

2009-06-07T23:30:00.003-04:00

Well, we are headed to the James again tomorrow. We will be having a Cat Scan to see whether the mass in the lung has shrunk, stayed the same or grown. If the mass has stayed the same or grown, we will proceed to have the at least half of the lung taken out. We are also hoping to find out what the needle biopsy showed from last Monday. I will let you all know as soon as we find out.

Had a really nice relaxing evening at my parents house. Stephen, Sarah and Aiden were home and we cooked out and spent the evening out on mom and dad's deck. We all needed it.

We also spent some time at the fairgrounds this weekend too. Hot air balloon races is a fun filled weekend. On Friday, we spent the night with Jesse, Ginger, little Jesse and Sunny Maple. The kids had a ball. We watched the fireworks which Jackson loved. On Saturday, my mom and I took my nephew, Aiden, and Jackson down...let's just say that my child is wild and I had to take him off the little ferris wheel they had because he would not sit down. The ride stopped at the top and Jackson jumped up and down and then proceeded to sit on the floor of the ride...ya, my kid is wild!!!! Pictures to come.

Eric Update...

2009-06-03T12:13:00.002-04:00

We arrived at the James on Monday, June 1st, around 7am. By 7:30 we were called to the 4th floor where Eric's surgery would take place. Went to the pre-op room where they started doing vitals and tried to start the iv. He was extremely dehydrated and they ended up blowing his vein. They finally drew a couple of vials of blood and the anaesthesiologist gave him some relaxation medicine in his other arm. He then started the iv where the anaesthesia would be going in, which they sewed to his arm. Very weird. I have had anaesthesia several times and not once have they ever sewed the iv to my arm. Anyway, at about 8:30, they wheeled him into surgery. If any of you, or someone you know have ever had any surgery at OSU, they have a waiting atrium. Very nice, it's on the 5th floor. Access to Internet, tables, vending machines...pretty much anything you need. There is also a TV screen that updates anytime the patient goes into surgery, out of surgery, recovery room, etc. The Dr. also calls to update the patients family of when things are being done as well. So every time that phone rang, I jumped. The waiting is horrible!!! Fifteen mins., half an hour, forty-five mins., they finally called and said that they had started about 9:10. We had been told that the surgery could last 15 mins. to an hour and a half. I sat and tried to read...yea, that wasn't happening. I read the same line 30 times. I looked at the monitor about 20 times...it said the same thing every time I looked, patient in operating room. Finally an hour went by and two surgeons came into the atrium area. Dr. Ross, who is the head Thoracic Surgeon and his assistant, Dr. Patsy, who had performed the surgery on him. They had just finished up and Eric was heading to recovery. He did fine. They went down through the throat and took needle biopsies of the lymph nodes on the right side of the chest. Dr. Ross said that it "looked" to be benign, but he wanted to run more tests on the bio's to make sure. He said that someone would be coming to get me to take me to him. An hour went by and I finally was able to see him. He had a horrible look on his face and was white as a ghost. See, Dr. Ross had told us that if he got a good reading with the needle biopsies and it showed cancer, that he would stop the surgery and not cut him open. So Eric layed there for over an hour thinking that he had cancer because he had not been cut open. I told him that Dr. Ross had said that it "looked" benign. His throat was really sore from the vent tube down it. Dr. Ross came out and talked to us both and said he wanted to do a CT Scan on him. That is now scheduled for Monday. If the mass in his lung has shrunk, he wants to go a different route than having to take the lung. If it has stayed the same or grown, he will proceed to take the lung. We are waiting to hear back from the bio's, said it would take 5 to 7 days. More waiting... Dr. Ross also said that just because the right side may not be cancer, that doesn't mean that the left side isn't. It still doesn't explain why the mass is in his lung...that is not normal. So there you have it. Our day was quite long and emotional. We just can't get our hopes up yet, just to be knocked down again. So we will wait to hear and I will let you all know as soon as I can. Thank you all for caring and praying for us. We really appreciate it.

Update...

2009-05-19T10:42:00.002-04:00

This past Friday, which was Eric's 38th birthday, we headed back over to The James for some pre-op testing. Our first one, they called an OPAC Test, really wasn't a test, we just met with the anaesthesiologist. She checked his throat, listened to his lungs and drew more blood. I swear he has been stuck more in the past 2 months than I can even count. Answered some questions that we had and filled out more paperwork. The second test was the PFT test. Breathing tests before being put under. They both went fine and we were home fairly early. Next trip will be surgery number one and we will hopefully know what we are dealing with at that time. Thank you all for the prayers!!!

Update...

2009-05-14T16:28:00.002-04:00

Thought I would update you all on what is happening.

On May 5th, we went to the James Cancer Center in Columbus at Ohio State. We met with an oncologist and a thoracic surgeon. I have to tell you that this place is an amazing hospital. Everyone was so wonderful! The first dr. we saw was Dr. Villalona, he is the head of the lung cancer facility. He told us that the mass in Eric's lung was a higher number and that he was recommending us to see Dr. Ross, who is the second dr. we saw. He is the head of the Cardiothoracic Surgery. To make a long story short...we are headed over to Columbus tomorrow for 2 tests, a PFT (Pulmonary Function Test) and an OPAC test, which I can't remember what it actually stands for. Both tests are pre-op tests for the surgeries that we have planned.

On June 1st, we will be having the first surgery, Auto Fluoroscopic Bronchoscope, Endeobronchial Ultrasound Biopsy and possible Mediastinoscopy. Yeah, I know, I about crapped. They will put him to sleep, go down his throat and take a needle biopsy of the lymph nodes in his chest. There will be 3 pathologists in the surgery room reading these biopsies. If they cannot get a good reading, they will make a small incision in his throat and remove 2-3 lymph nodes to study. If the needle biopsy shows that it is cancer, they will stop and proceed to the next surgery. They will not cut his throat. We hopefully, will know something that day. We also will not know if they will have to cut him that day going into the surgery. Depending on the outcome of the 1st, will determine the next surgery, which is scheduled 7 days later.

On June 8th, we will go back for Left video assisted thoroscopic surgery, possible thoractomy, possible wedge, possible left lower lobe. What that means is that if what we find on the 1st is cancer, they will take out half of his left lung. If it is NOT cancer, they will take only the part of the lung that the mass is in. Either way, he will have some of his left lung taken out.

Cancer, as you know, is determined in stages. We were told that if it is cancer, we are hoping for Stage 1 - Stage 3a. That means that it is still operable and treatable. Stage 3b or stage 4, well, we just will have to wait to see what the best treatment will be from there. Chemo and radiation will probably be in the future no matter what the outcome.

I hope that you all followed that. Believe me, I have learned more things in the past month than I ever thought I would.

The railroad called last week and have denied our appeal. So going back there is out.

Please keep us in your thoughts. Eric gets tired quickly and is having some pain, nothing he can't handle right now though. I think our mental and emotional status is a little crazy right now, but we are doing ok. Jackson keeps us going. Thank God.

I will keep you all posted.

I'm an Aunt again...

2009-04-29T11:29:00.002-04:00

WELCOME TO THE WORLD BABY GAVIN!!!!!

Very proud to announce that Angela finally had her little one.

GAVIN BRIAR LOCKE

April 28, 2009

2:58 PM

8lbs. 2oz.

22 inches long!!

I am so happy for you both and will post some pictures later today. I also want to say how proud that Tristan and Aubrey are. They were right there waiting for their little brother to get here. I know they will be good to Gavin.

Congratulations!! I am so happy to be Aunt Jess again can't wait to love that little punkin!

Jackson's Birthday

2009-04-20T12:00:00.006-04:00

Here are a few pictures of Jackson.

The first pics are just some funny faces that he is making.

This starts his bithday pics. The first few are the night of his birthday, playing with the baby einstien gift that Maggie, Robin's little girl, got him. He loves this thing.

Jackson turned 2 on January 17th, I know, it's been almost 3 months. Better late than never.
Jackson and Aiden.

Ok, this is probably my fault. I don't give him much sugar, so he really wasn't that thrilled with the cake. Ice cream, he likes. I thought this pic was so funny. I love the look on his face.

Jackson loves Blue's Clues. So we did the whole birthday in that. I baked this cake the night before. I think it turned out really cute. Thanks to Mary Knicely for coming over and helping me with it. We had to piece it together...long story, which I will keep to myself.

Maggie loved that Jackson was getting clothes.

She took all of the clothes and carried them around.

Jackson got his first Harley Davidson from Mowmaw and Granddad. He loves it!!

This is how our dog, Daisy, sleeps every night. She is so spoiled and loves to snuggle.

Update...

2009-04-20T11:29:00.002-04:00

Thought I would update you on what's going on. On Thursday, I spoke with pulmonologists office and they told me that Eric's biopsies are "non diagnostic". There are some active cells that they can't rule out cancer. They had an appointment set up with a Thoracic surgeon for May 5th...that is 3 weeks away, and that was just a consultation for the surgeons. Who knows when the surgery would happen. So I told them we wanted a second opinion. We are now waiting to be referred to the James Cancer Center in Columbus. Hopefully we will know more today.

Jackson is doing more and saying more everyday. The terrible two's have definitely hit. He is sooooo ornery!!!! Keeps me on my toes. We were sleeping the other night about 3:30 in the morning, I just felt like there was someone looking at me and opened my eyes...you guessed it!! Jackson staring me in the face...he said "HI MAMA". He is now climbing out of his crib. Not all the time, but just every once in a while. He is a climber. Loves to explore and won't sit still for more than ten seconds. Oh well, he is healthy and that is all that matters.

I'll let you all know if we hear anything today.

Our lives right now...

2009-04-14T10:05:00.002-04:00

He is risen...He is risen indeed!!

Well, I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter.

I once again have not updated for a while.

Things have been quite difficult. We have had some events that have really turned our lives upside-down.

Eric lost his job about 3 1/2 weeks ago. I won't go into details, but let's just say the reason was ridiculous. We have appealed it and are waiting to hear back from them.

Eric is also having some medical problems. We have been seeing a lung specialist in Zanesville. He has had numerous tests, including an endoscopy, PET-scan, and last week a lung biopsy. The PET-scan is a test that an IV gives you a radioactive dye, which puts a sugar-glucose through your body. You then go into a machine that takes pictures of your body. They detect "hot spots or cold spots" throughout the body. Your lungs should be "cold". His showed "hot", as well as the lymphnodes in his chest and stomach. We were so shocked! We then were scheduled to have a lung biopsy done, which we had done last Thursday. They went in through his back with a needle and took six biopsies of the lower left lung. We are waiting to hear from the dr. for the results. The pulmonologist is in the process of reading and determining what it could be. It could be a number of things. The dr. seemed to be very suprised that the spots showed "hot". Eric is not a smoker, he is very healthy and only 37. The waiting is driving us crazy. I called yesterday to see if they had any news and the nurse said they had some prelimonary results, but were waiting on the cytology report. In just about a 4 week time, this is what we have been dealing with. Please keep us in your prayers and I will let you know when we hear anything.

Thank God for our baby boy!! Jackson keeps us smiling and if not for him, I don't know what state I would be in. Eric is ok. I think he is more nervous than he lets on. Probably for my sake, he remains calm.

We have had wonderful support from our family and friends. Our parents have been helping out and we appreciate that so much. We truly are blessed to have such wonderful parents who care and love us. Thank you to Debbie & Rex Snyder, Mary & Bob Knicely, Patty & Ken Cramer, Jenny & Lee Landon, Janelle Given and that is just a few of the many people that are supporting us. One thing about living in a small town, that is what it's all about. In time of need, people come out and do whatever they can. THANK YOU!!!

Happy Valentine's Day!!

2009-02-16T11:53:00.002-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day to you all. I always say this is a holiday that Hallmark loves. But, we had a nice day. Eric and Jackson bought me really pretty pink tulips and a bottle of wine. I got a card from Jackson that was just too cute. We colored a picture/card for Eric from Jackson. He loved it. Jackson is really into tracing his hand, so we traced his hand on the card. I cooked dinner and Eric went to bed and I went to Mary's to scrap. Another day at the Smith's.

Jackson is finally feeling better. Not eating very much, but his fever is finally down. A week with a baby with a fever is not a fun thing...let me tell you. It's not that he was bad, I was a nervous wreck. He is such a good boy, you would really never know that he was sick. Accept that he really didn't want me out of his sight. I am still battling the cough and blowing my nose alot...3 more days of antibiotics and hopefully it will be heading out of my system.

Well, I have pictures to add, but don't have time right now, so I will post some later. Hope you all had a nice Valentine's Day.

My poor little man...

2009-02-11T22:12:00.002-05:00

Well, after the last two nights of Jackson running a high fever, I called the doctor today. She was unable to see him and thought it would be best to take him to the ER. He ran a fever from Sunday until today. The highest being 102.8. I took him in this morning and they took a culture of his throat. The test came back negative, but the dr. said that 80% of the time, they grow positive within 48 hours. So he decided to treat him anyway and gave him Zithromax. OK, have any of you ever tried to give a child medicine that they hate? It took some real coaxing and I still don't think he got all of the first dose. We will try again tomorrow. The last two nights have been awful with him not sleeping and not wanting to be away from me. He slept with me and tossed and turned most of the nights. He is sleeping soundly right now and I am hoping that it will continue. It probably wouldn't be so bad but I am sick with a sinus infection. I was at the dr's on Monday. So please say a quick prayer that this will pass soon.

Welcome Baby Gress!!

2009-02-10T11:02:00.002-05:00

Little Baby Gauge Gress was born yesterday. Mike, Erica and baby are doing well. He weighed 8lbs 1oz and was 21 inches long. She was 2 weeks early and he was that big already. Can you imagine what he would have been had she gone another 2 weeks?!! Congratulations to you!!

HELP!!!!!

2009-02-04T16:22:00.002-05:00

Ok, so, I think my son has hit the "terrible twos". Oh my word... He will look at me when he knows he should not be doing something and just grin and do whatever he wants over and over and over and over... Please for all you moms out there, tell me this to shall pass!!!!! I put him in the corner and we have to laugh, because he is hilarious. Like right now, he is hitting the lamp shade and looking at me and shaking his head saying no no no. HELP!!!!!!

I also want to say congratulations to Beth and Scott. Happy that you will have another little one to love.

2009-02-02T09:49:00.007-05:00

Hello to all. Thought I would post some pics and let you know what we have been up to. Jackson turned 2 on January 17 and we had a "Blue's Clues" party. He had a ball and recieved many gifts. It's always hard to have a birthday right after Christmas. The child has so much. Oh well, I guess that is what being a kid is all about.

This is Daisy. She is the most spoiled dog I have ever seen. We tell people the way she sleeps and I don't really think people believe us. So, here is the proof.

So, most of you know that I am addicted now to scrapbooking. I take pictures of everything. This is Jackson getting his 1st haircut being 2 years old. I even had Janelle save me some hair so I could scrap it.

Jackson loves Janelle, and Timothy. She is so good with him. When he is finished and we are getting ready to leave, Jackson gives them hugs and kisses. It is so cute.

The next few are of his birthday party.

Jackson and Aiden eating at the diner. Mom and Dad bought this for him for Christmas. He loves it!!

Mamaw Mary and Gabe

Aunt Dawn and Austin

Ok, so I have to explain this gift. I used to work at the Sportzone for Nick...most of you know him. I still, to this day, call him "Sunshine". Soooooo, Uncle Nick decided last year to start torturing me through my son. Last year Jackson recieved a donkey that plays music, dances and sings horribly. Of course, this was one of his favorite gifts last year. This year, Uncle Nick bought him a Ford truck. It makes all kinds of noises. It also plays the song, "Walking on Sunshine". Too funny Uncle Nick...and I'm sure that Auntie Emily had NOTHING to do with this. Thank you both Emily and Nick. We enjoyed having you here.

This is Jackson's new Harley. Grandma and Grandad got this for him. He absolutely loves it.

This is the cake that I made. Mary came over and helped me with it. It was not easy, but I think it turned out really cute.

Jackson doesn't get much sugar. I prefer him to not have it. So anytime the child gets a bit of sugar, he doesn't like it. Which is fine by me. He didn't care too much for the cake.

This is Maggie Shannon. Robin's little one. She is 18 months and is the cutest little thing. She had lots of fun. Jackson had his first "kiss" that day from a girl.

Jackson and Aiden playing.

Maggie bought Jackson a Baby Einstien guy that goes in the tub. He loves this thing. Here are few pics of him playing in the tub with it. He will also love playing with it this summer at Grandma and Grandad's pool.

Photo shoot with Monty!

2009-01-19T18:31:00.005-05:00

We had our photos taken in September. Monty Soungpradith took them and did a fantastic job. Please visit his website @ www.openimagestudio.com.

Happy Birthday Jackson!!!

2009-01-18T11:16:00.003-05:00

The picture above was taken this Christmas. The next three were taken 1/27/2007. 10 days after he was born. Look how much he has changed. It's so amazing.

Well, my baby boy turned 2 years old yesterday. I can't believe he is two. Time has just flown by. You know, people always say once you get older and have children, the time goes by so fast. SO TRUE!! It seems like just yesterday that I was pregnant. We had a nice day with each other. His party is next weekend and I am looking forward to seeing how he reacts to his cake...which of course, is Blue! My parents came over last night and we gave him a cupcake and sang to him. It was so funny. He just had this big grin on his face. Didn't care too much for the cupcake until Eric put Reddiwhip on it. He loves that stuff. You also have to understand that I am pretty anal about giving him sugar, the child does not get sugar, so anything that has a sugary taste, he wrinkles up his nose and isn't quite sure what he is eating. He had it on the his hands and decided to shake his hand, therefore getting on the dog, the walls, the floor and me. He just laughed. Can't wait for his cake next week. Anyway, just thought I'de let you know that Jackson is two!

Christmas in Full Swing

2009-01-06T14:01:00.013-05:00

Did you all think that I was never going to update this thing? You all know how I am. Christmas was wonderful and we have so much to be thankful for. Jackson was a blast this year. He recieved way too much and I think we need to buy a storage unit to put all of his new things in. So here is "some" of Christmas. I still have more to put on, but this should hold you over until I get the others posted.

We went to Penny and Ralph's (my in-laws) on Christmas Day. Lots of good food and presents.

Jackson and Grandad
Cousins: Derik, Shane and Jackson

Penny's tree

This was Jackson's little spot. A new table and chairs, which he loves, with all his presents. He thought it was pretty neat that he had his own place.

Christmas Morning!

The grandparents came over Christmas morning and watched Jackson open his gifts from Santa. When he walked into the living room, he said "Wow"! It was so cute.

Santa brought him a Wowwee animal. It makes real life noises and he thinks it bites him. He makes me kiss his finger when he holds it.

Grandad helping Jackson open one of his gifts.

He picked this thing up like it was nothing...it was heavy! Strong little thing.

He is really into Pooh right now, so Santa brought him Pooh, Piglet, Tigger, Eeyore and Roo. He handed each one of us them after he opened them.

This was Christmas Eve. Daisy was already asleep in hopes that St. Nick the Dog would soon be here.

I snuck in to Jackson's room Christmas Eve and took a picture of him sleeping. I did this last year also. He had socks on when we put him down, but he always manages to pull them off and throw them across the room.

. Santa ate his cookies and drank his milk

Heidi, my kitter.

Jackson's stocking. It plays music and the his ears go up and down.

This is Jackson's first Christmas and the one below is from this year. Makes me sad. Look how much he has changed!!

Santa was good to Jackson. He stopped by while he was sound asleep.

Do I really need to say anything? He loves his Daisy.

Cool dude

This is the Christmas tree that was at my baby shower. It was decorated with all kinds of things for the baby. So I thought it would be cute to have in his room every year. He loves it and every morning he says "pretty tree" for me to turn it on.

Wrapping, wrapping, wrapping...

On December 20th, we had our annual Christmas party. It is usually at Mike Gress's, but this year we had it at our place. We had a gift exchange, lots of food and played some cards. Nice to spend time with good friends.

Jimmy and Cowen

It was also muzzle loader season, so some of the guys from Cleveland were down to deer camp. This is Mike, we were really glad they came.

Steve and Tasha

Erica, Jesse and Dave

Mike, Mike, Ginger and Craig

Miss Emily

Ginger

Dave

Went to West Virginia for the weekend of the 13th, to stay with Jenny and Lee. We had such a good time. Went to dinner on campus at West Liberty. Then Jenny and I headed to the Casino. We had a fun time, but our age must be getting to us, because the entire time we played the slots, we worried about the 40 dollars that we were " throwing away". Gosh, we are really getting old.

Thank you for having me and I can't wait to do it again.

Cole and Gabe!! Can you believe how big they are getting?

Jenny and Lee cooked an awesome breakfast.

I love this picture of Gabe helping Jenny cook.

These are a little out of order. Jackson loves to sit on his table. I thought this was so cute. Of course, watching Pooh.

We thought we would get a Blue Spruce this year, which are really prickily to see if that would make Jackson not touch the tree as much. Didn't work. He was pretty good, but the temptation was too much and he touched it only about 10 times a day. Could of been worse.

Here's Aiden. Stephen and Sarah moved from Reynoldsburg/Pickerington area to Westerville to be closer to Sarah's school and Aiden's new daycare. This is his own bathroom right in his bedroom. He is sooo proud of his monkey bathroom. He couldn't wait to show me.
Ok, back to West Virginia. Jenny and me at the casino.

Just plain goofy, just like old times.

Back to Columbus. Aiden's new daycare is adorable and he really loves it. This is his Line Leader chart.

How cute is their computer room?

Good habits start early...washing his hands after he used the little toilet.

2009-01-06T13:43:00.002-05:00

On December 12, Sarah graduated from Columbus State. She also graduated Magna Cum Laude. Congratulations Sarah!! We are proud of you!

She is now attending Ohio Wesleyan. Good Luck!

Hello!!!

2009-01-03T10:27:00.002-05:00

Updating tonight...I promise!! Lots to tell you all and pictures to show you from Christmas.

A few new pics, finally!!

2008-11-24T23:02:00.002-05:00

Here are a few pictures from the Sears session I had taken. I bought the copyright, but the pictures are a bit blurry until you go to print them.

At least this is a step in the right direction, you are seeing pictures. I still cannot figure out why my picture downloader thingy won't work. I am going to have to request that Christy come over for a nice girls "drink" and help me with it.

Can you believe that Christmas is a month away?!!!

Can you belive that I am going to be Aunt Jess again to Little Baby Boy Locke?!!!! I am sooo excited. Aunt Di-Di and I are happy for you Angela!

Well, I will continue to work on that downloader thingy. Enjoy the pics and hope you all have a very Happy Thanksgiving!!

If you want to...

2008-11-07T16:12:00.002-05:00

Hello!!

I thought I would let you all know that we had our pictures taken. If any of you would want to view them, send me an e-mail and I can give you the website and password. I don't want just anyone seeing them. At least this can give you a look at how big Jackson is getting until I get my camara downloading thing fixed to be able to put pics on. My e-mail address is: smalls9577@sbcglobal.net Hope to hear from you all soon.

I'm Back!!!!

2008-11-02T01:46:00.002-04:00

Ok.....I know, it has been a while. I was subbing at Central on Friday and had 3 people tell me to get this thing updated!!!! So, I guess I should tell you that I just moved back into my house after 2 months of living at my in-laws. We gutted our kitchen and dining room and stayed with them while it was being done. This is the 3rd night back in the house and it seems like I have been running ever since.

We took Jackson to a few of our friends and family for trick-or-treating on Thursday. Then last night I went to Zanesville with Angela and today went to Zanesville with my mom and Jackson and then got home and went to the Armed Forces Ball. So I promise that tomorrow, I will put some pictures on and let you see my little man.

Just some random pics...

2008-07-21T23:40:00.004-04:00

Mamaw and Jackson up in the back yard. He loves to go up any kind of hill and run down it. He says "weeeeeeeeeee" all the way down.

Are these not the cutest little things?!!!!
Mamaw and Papa bought him a little card table and chair set for Christmas or his Birthday, I can't remember which. Anyway, he loves to have his snack there and also thinks he can climb on it and stand on it.
I was giving Jackson a bath tonight and decided to take a few pictures. I love the way he lays down in the water to "swim". My bathroom is usually more wet than he is.

Angela and I had lunch with an old friend, Rochelle and her little boy, Keiran, the other day. The boys really liked each other and shared all their snacks with each other. We had a really nice time, but next time, it's just girls night...the men can watch our little ones. We miss you Rochelle!! Keiran is adorable!!

This picture cracks me up, look at him looking at Angela.

Summer of 2008, so far...

2008-07-18T00:08:00.013-04:00

Well, I said I would post some more today and here's the summer so far. We took a trip to Rainbow Hill's Winery this past weekend. It is so beautiful out there. There were about 22 of us. Eric cooked everyone's dinner. Steak and chicken on the grill. We ended up getting a storm, but it cleared up and we had a really nice time.

The rainbow after the storm.

Tammy, me and Ginger
Eric and me
Ginger and Jesse
Lori, Jessica and Tammy

We also took a trip to Cleveland to a "Cross Canadian Ragweed" concert. They are a country rock band, if you haven't heard of them. The concert was at The House of Blues. We ate dinner there also. The food was good and by eating there, it allowed us to enter into the concert hall before the other crowd. We ended up being in the front row.

Lisa, me and Erica

Some of these pictures are out of order. I will try to keep you straight. I need some more practice at this. Anyway, as I said before, we have been spending a lot of time at my in-law's. They have a pool and on these hot days, it feels wonderful. Those of you who know me, know that I am a pool and sun lover.
Jackson and Grandad

I took these at my in-law's.

I just love the colors.

I know, I had to. My feet in the pool.
Jackson is finally loving the pool. He just jumps right in. We can't take our eyes off of him.
My best friend, Paige, and her family were home for about 6 weeks this summer. Her husband, Ryan, is in the military and they are heading to Seattle, Washington as we speak. He will be attending The University of Washington and will be out there for at least 2 years. We had a wonderful time while they were home, but I am sad. I am used to her being gone, but it never gets any easier. I plan on flying out in the spring. The next few pictures are of when they were home.

At Lake Park playing on the toys.

This is Sam, Paige's youngest. He will be 6 in August. I love these pictures. The one below cracks me up...Jackson is listening to every word he is saying. I would love to know what they are talking about.

Eric, Jackson and me at Ryan's Welcome Home Party.
Denver and Sam fishing off of Mema and Papa's boat.
Denver, Debbie, Gwenn and Rex
Sam drinking a "coffee" at Uncorked in Roscoe

Denver, Debbie and Sam...I am not sure why some of these are small. Sorry

Jackson and Sam playing the piano at Mema's.
Paige, Rex, Sam, Denver and Ryan
Paige, Aunt Renee (Ryan's sister from Florida), and me

Our nephew, Derik, graduated this year and some of the next few photos are from his graduation party.

Congratulations Derik!!!!

This is Glenna, Eric's grandma. Jackson always has fun playing with her...I think she has fun too.
Pap (Great Grandpa) watching Jackson getting ready to do a somersault.
Paige and me above and Rod, Ryan and Dan below. The guys from Ohio Northern, where Ryan went to college, came down to be with us for Ryan's welcome home party. It was so good to see them.

At first, Jackson wanted nothing to do with the big pool, so he opted to play in the bird bath...he had more fun as you can see.

I went in to check on Jackson one night and this is how I found him...layed back.

This is Derik, our nephew that just graduated.

July 4th is spent at my parents house. My brother flew in from Minneapolis, he is working there for a few months. We had the family all together and then went swimming the next day at my in-laws. Aiden is now 3!!! Can you believe it?! He has no fear of the water and loves to swim. Jackson and him get along really well. Aiden is really good with him. He is such a good boy. My mom bought them their swimming outfits for Easter this year...or was it Christmas, I can't remember. Anyway, they look so cute together.

Aiden, Sarah and Stephen.
Walking at Lake Park with Aunt Angela and Aubrey.

That is Aubrey way up there.

More 4 of July pictures...

How stinkin cute is this?
Aiden watching a movie out back on the swing.

Well, I hope you followed all my jumping around. I would promise you that I will post more soon, but you all know how I am. I need to get some video on here of Jackson. Hope you all are having a nice summer and enjoying the beautiful weather we are finally having. Talk to you soon...

Summer!!!!!

2008-07-16T23:31:00.004-04:00

HAPPY SUMMER TO YOU ALL!!!

First Popsickle!! He liked it.
Eating a bowl of ice cream...he seems to get whatever he wants at his grandparents house.
He absolutely loves the pool now. When we first put him in it at the beginning of the summer, he didn't really care for it. He would of rather played in his little pool, but last week I took him in and now he doesn't want to get out. I'm glad in one way, but he makes me a little nervous. I plan on buying him a swim-suit life vest tomorrow.
He makes car noises and tries to steer the wheel...too cute!!! He still likes his little pool though. We had to fill it today so he could play in both pools.

Hello Everyone!!!

Ok, here we go again...I haven't updated forever. It's summer, what can I say? My little man is soooo onery and he keeps me extremely busy and on my toes at all times. I have been spending alot of time at my in-law's pool...which Jackson has finally taken a liking to. I will post a few pics tonight and few tomorrow. I am too tired to do all the ones I want to tonight. My son and the sun wear me out.

We Went to the Zoo!!

2008-06-03T00:16:00.005-04:00

We went to the Columbus Zoo on May 18th. Stephen, Sarah, Aiden, Eric, Jackson and me. We had an awesome time. Sarah's mom got us free tickets to get in through where she works. It was closed to the public. The weather was a bit chilly, but the animals were out and about. Jackson loved it. He was wide-eyed the entire time. He is an animal lover just like his mommy and daddy.

Jackson wasn't too sure about this.

I love the look on his face.
You can't even believe how close we were to the tiger. He got a drink of water and then layed down right in front of us, the only thing that separated us was the glass. We literally could have petted him had the glass not been there.

Jackson loves "tur-turs". He would sit straight up and peer over his stroller. Too cute.
I never realized how much our side profile's are alike.

This is a highly poisonous frog. I love the color.
Endangered as well.
It is so pretty over there. Peaceful, I could just sit here on a bench all day and watch the water.

If you look closely at the gorilla above, he is smiling. He was laying down right by the glass and was smiling at us as we passed by.

What a great time we had, can't wait to do it again. How cute are they looking at the animals together!?

Aiden turns 3!!!!

2008-06-03T00:01:00.004-04:00

Aiden turned three years old on May 13th!! Stephen and Sarah had his birthday party on May 17th in Columbus. As you can see from the pictures below, Jackson was exhausted. They had so much fun together.

Look how tired his eye's look!!
This is Sarah's dad, Doug. Jackson had a lot of fun playing with him.
All he wanted to do was climb up the steps. He didn't even go towards the ones that go downstairs.
Aiden had blue icing on his cake as you can see.

Grandma and Papa got him a "Mobile Rescue Unit"...Diego. He loves Diego!! I bought him a few of the animals that go with it.

My other little man is growing up. Happy Birthday Aiden!!!! We love you!

Jackson and His Buddy!

2008-06-02T23:49:00.004-04:00

Women of Faith Conference

2008-05-09T23:46:00.006-04:00

On April 25-26, I attended the Women of Faith Conference in Columbus. It was one of the most amazing experiences. I loved it. Here are some of the pictures from the weekend and some of the speakers that we heard. I laughed and cried. Every women needs to experience this. It does the heart and soul good.

This is Nicole Johnson.
Sheila Walsh
Natalie Grant, who just blew me away. She has won Female Vocalist of the Year for 3 years in a row now. What an amazing voice.
This years theme was "Infinite Grace"
Marilyn Meberg
This was the Praise and Worship Team. Loved them.
Luci Swindoll, What a trip!!! She was hilarious!

Patsy Clairmont...I don't even know where to begin with this crazy lady. She brought tears to our eyes from the laughter.
This is my good friend, Jenny Landon and one of her friends that came with her from West Virginia, Maggie, who is pregnant.
Sandi Patty - What a journey this woman has embarked upon. She has been through so much and her voice is like none I have ever heard.
Maggie, Angie, Ealgene, and Shanna
Natalie Grant

More of the girls that were with us.

Kristy, Shanna, Mary, Tiffany, and Ealgene

Anita Renfroe

I will try to put her link on here so you all can listen to her "Momsense".
Nicole C. Mullen
We had amazing seats. 2 rows up in the stands. I couldn't have asked for better seats.
Another picture of Patsy, she was one of my favorites.

Lovin' Spring...

2008-05-05T22:07:00.004-04:00

Well, it's been a little while since I've up-dated.

Jackson had his 15 month check-up today.

20lbs. 6oz. and 31 inches. Tiny little thing.

Doing well though.

Jackson has figured out that he loves to be naked. After his bath, he runs through the house with the dog and here he is trying to get poor Heidi.
A new baby goat. Sooooo cute. Jackson loved them.

We took Aiden out to the Gress's to see the goats and the cows.
Daddy's hat...he won't take those fingers out.

This picture "crack's" me up, no pun intended. haha

One of our deer-deer that lay in the back yard. Can't wait for the little ones.

I love the goats and cows!!!

2008-04-24T11:46:00.005-04:00

We took Jackson out to Allen and Teresa Gress's yesterday to let him see the baby calf's and the goats. We didn't get to see many calf's, but he loved the goats. He loves animals. We also had our first boo-boo. He fell on the cement and scraped his knee...never made one sound. Then we were at the Gress's and he rolled down the hill. He cried then. Needless to say, he was filthy last night and I'm sure that with summer coming, every night will be filthy and funtime in the tub.

This is Abby, she loved Jackson.

The child loves to stand on his head. We always tell him how good he is doing.

This is Rocky. Jackson thought it was so funny that he jumped on Eric.

The Beginning of Spring and a few other pictures

2008-04-20T23:35:00.010-04:00

I am so excited that the weather has finally begun to be nice. Jackson loves to be outside and this afternoon when the temperature warmed up, we went out back to walk around the woods a little bit.

This is Miss Kitty...we inherited her when Kevin, our next door neighbor passed away. She is so sweet and friendly. She follows Jackson around. He loves the "kitty".
Still a bit wobbley...
Bathtime!!

Chasing Miss Kitty.

Stephen, Sarah and Aiden came home this weekend. Mom's birthday was Friday and we headed to Thomas' for dinner. On Sat. the boys enjoyed the day outside.
I wonder what Jackson is telling Aiden...Aiden is thinking, "Don't even think about taking my football away"!!!!

My Dad kept telling Aiden that there was a monkey in the pipe. Aiden said he heard it and told his mommy to get it.

These pictures are a bit out of order, but a couple of weekends ago, my Aunt and Uncle renewed their wedding vows in Cincinnati - 40 Years!! We did some sight seeing and went to the outlet malls, just Mom and me went. In the little town that my Aunt and Uncle live in, the theme in the town is squirrels. They are dressed up and are all over the town. I took lots of pictures.
Jackson fell asleep in his chair the other day and I snapped a few photos.

Sarah and Stephen

My Aunt and Uncle go to a church called the Vineyard. It is HUGE!!! I can't believe how big it is. He works in the Discovery Land, which is the nursery/Sunday school classes. He averages about 800-900 kids EVERY weekend!! Can you believe that?!! They had an artist come in and paint the walls. It is all ocean and it is soooo neat.

If you look closely at the clouds, you can see animals

This is the restaurant area. They have a restaurant and book store right in the church. This looks out onto a lake and outdoor patio.

Aunt Karen and Uncle Rick

Mom and me
Breakfast at Bob Evan's the next day
This is the entrance to Discovery Land, where all the kids come

My friend Angela's step-daughter, Aubrey, had her 8th Birthday/Pool Party at the Super 8 like she did last year.
This is one of the gifts she got from us. She is such an artist...and she is really good at it.

Aubrey's new suit for this year. Too cute.
It is amazing how fast Jackson has grown. The picture above is this years party and the one below is last years. Jackson was 2 months old in the one below and he is 14 months in the one above. Look how much Aubrey has changed too.

Aunt Angela and Jackson
We tried to put Jackson in with Kayla and he screamed... he usually loves the water. I'm sure it was because Eric and I weren't in the pool with him. Grandma and Grandad have a pool at their new house...he better learn to like it.

Sneak Peek!!

2008-04-14T00:41:00.003-04:00

Well, we just went on Saturday to have our family pictures taken. We went back to Toni. She does such a fantastic job. This is the "Sneak Peek" that she has on her blog. I can't wait to see the rest of them. I'll post them as soon as I get them. Eric, Jackson, Stephen, Sarah, Aiden and me...let me tell you, it wasn't easy getting the boys to cooperate.

I'm Back!!

2008-04-14T00:04:00.007-04:00

This is my Grandma. She recently turned 81.

We celebrated by going to the Yard for dinner

and then we went back to her house for cake and presents. She really enjoyed herself.

Well, all I can say is that he is taking after

his father...he loves deer-deer.
Grandad, Jackson and Daddy
Grandma's 81st Birthday
How funny is it that she loves Heineken beer?
Mom, Great Aunt Wilma, Uncle Bob and Grandma

He thinks it's fun to stand on his head in the tub and anywhere else he can.
We finally got to put Jackson's new carseat in. He just hit 20lbs.!! He loves being able to see me and facing forward. He is a big boy now.

Easter Sunday! The Easter Bunny came to see Jackson and left him lots of books and goodies.
Grandma and Grandad's House on Easter.
Eating his first bite of rasberry/vanilla ice cream...He loved it.
Easter at Mamaw's and Papaw's. The Easter Bunny came at lots of places for him.
Ok, so I can't believe that I am putting this on here. Aiden got this really cool microphone from the Easter Bunny and he laughed when I sang in it. Eric, unfortunately, had the camera.

Little man thinks he needs to stand on and in everything. I know the bruises have only just begun.
Sleeping soundly
We are re-modeling our basement and have begun to put our new bathroom in. This is the box that our tub came in. Jackson and Eric loved playing inside it. I love this picture.
Jackson and Daisy love to look out the window together.
Jackson loves pudding. He decided he was going to feed himself one day and the dog. He had it everywhere.

Jackson's Photo Shoot

2008-02-28T00:32:00.006-05:00

I had Jackson's pictures taken right before Christmas. I think they turned out fantastic. Aiden, my nephew, went with us as well. A girl I went to school with has her own photography studio. If any of you want the website, just let me know. Also, let me know what you think of the pictures.

Remembering a good friend.

2008-02-28T00:27:00.004-05:00

Rest in peace, Dave. We will miss you.

This past week, a good friend of ours was killed at a local factory. He leaves behind a wife and two daughters, as well as many family and friends. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers. He will be sadly missed.

I'm Back!!!!!

2008-02-28T00:24:00.003-05:00

OK, so I haven't updated for a looooooooong time...Christy told me!! ha ha Anyway, I am in the middle of trying to figure out my new camera and how to get the pictures/videos off of my camera onto the computer. So, as soon as I do that, I will be showing all of you how cute my little man is.

Happy New Year!!!

2008-01-05T11:42:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year to you all!!

I will be blogging this weekend. I can't believe it's been almost a month. You know how I am. Christmas was wonderful. Jackson had loads of fun...as well as mommy and daddy. Look forward to many pictures.

Jackson the Star

2007-12-13T00:42:00.000-05:00

Jackson starring in The ABC Adventures...

http://www.myabcadventure.com/index.htm?movieid=311005B6-C5C6-4CD2-A6A1-2F8C80563925

The Dancing Cousins

2007-12-13T00:18:00.000-05:00

This is too funny. I made Jackson and Aiden dancing elfs. Enjoy!!

http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1348530088

OH-IO

2007-12-10T23:53:00.000-05:00

Well, Christmas just wouldn't be Christmas without the Buckeyes!!! We always have to honor the Bucks!

Enjoy!!

A day in Columbus

2007-12-10T22:16:00.000-05:00

We spent yesterday in Columbus after Jackson and I had our pictures done. Here are a few pics from the day. This picture cracks me up. Who could resist those eyes? Blue as can be.

I can't believe Aiden is old enough to color. It seems like only yesterday he was born.
Well, Aiden likes Jackson depending on the moment. We went to Aunt Sarah and Uncle Stephen's after we shopped for a little while. Jackson loves to play with his toys and Aiden isn't used to not being the only one. He is really good with him, though.

Loves to push things around now.

Photos with an old friend

2007-12-09T22:53:00.000-05:00

Today, we went to Columbus. An old friend that I graduated with has taken up photography. Her name is Toni Hammersley, used to be Toni Smith. She does beautiful work. Check out her website...

www.blueberrylanephotography.typepad.com

My photos should be on tomorrow. Let me know what you think. We are so excited. My mom, Stephen, Sarah and Aiden went with us. Toni took a few of the boys together. I think they will turn out really cute. We had a really nice visit as well. We hadn't seen each other since our reunion about 3 years ago. I am looking forward to seeing the pictures.

Lunch with Meemaw

2007-12-09T22:43:00.000-05:00

This is Meemaw Debbie. We had lunch last week at Bob Evan's. We had a really nice time. Jackson fell asleep as you will see. He has never fallen asleep in his chair before. We laughed because he kept pulling his head up. It was so precious. We put his head on Meemaw Debbie's coat.

This is his little chair in his room. As you can see, it was by his crib. One morning, about 4:00 in the morning, we heard music playing on the monitor. When I went into his room, he was reaching his arms out the crib and playing. Soooo, we moved it over. Funny little guy.
That dog never leaves his side, and he never leaves hers. I'm glad they're buds.

Trip to the Christmas Tree Farm

2007-12-09T22:35:00.000-05:00

We had a fun time picking out our tree. Jackson touched the trees and looked all around. It was FREEZING!!! We didn't take too long before we found one.

This is at Wal-Mart, I thought he looked so cute in his little coat and hat.

2007-12-09T22:23:00.000-05:00

This hat has some sentimental meaning to it. My best friend, Paige, had a little boy in 1995, Denver, who I can't believe will be 13 in Feb. This was his hat and Meemaw Debbie gave this to us last week. I love it.

We have learned how to unroll the toilet paper. So now, everytime we are in the bathroom, we have to take the roll off. I left him for 1 second and this is what I came back to. He thinks this is great fun.

This is our tree this year. Took me 4 days to decorate everything and we still have a couple things to do.
Ok, anyone who knows me knows I hate the cold, including snow. When I woke up the other morning to this, I wanted to get sick. This was taken in my back yard.

Deer Camp

2007-11-28T11:20:00.000-05:00

Well, Deer Camp started on Saturday. It will run through Sunday. Eric took vacation this week. He does every year. There are about 30 some people that hunt. They have friends that come down from up north and all over the area, so I thought I would share it. I don't like deer meat and won't let him even cook it in our house. I hate when they kill them. I always feel so bad. Anyway, here are a few pics from deer camp. I took Jackson out yesterday so everyone could see him. It was his first time, since he was in my belly last year. Enjoy!!

Poor thing!!!
I love this picture. This is Allen Gress, it's his place that deer camp takes place.
Daddy and his future hunter...so he thinks!!!
Jackson was getting pretty tired. He loves Justin, most kids do. He has a way with them. He looks like he was pretty relaxed.

2007-11-28T11:15:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving was a busy day for us, it always is. We start out the morning and afternoon at Penny and Ralph's, my mother and father-in-law. Lots of turkey and goodies to go along with it. Then we pack up and leave for my parents. More turkey and goodies. We usually then go to my cousins, but this year Jackson and Aiden were just too tired. So we stayed at my parents and played cards until too late. We had a nice day. I was so tired from all the running though. Christmas is at my house. Both sides of the family. We are expecting about 20 some people. Any suggestions? Haha

2007-11-28T11:05:00.000-05:00

Jackson and Aiden on Thanksgiving night. They love taking a bath together. If I could only get Jackson to sit down...

I love this picture.
Aiden giggling, a child's laugh is soup for the soul

2007-11-28T10:44:00.000-05:00

Ryan's return to Iraq

2007-11-28T08:50:00.000-05:00

My best friend, Paige, needs prayers right now. Her husband was home on leave from Baghdad and left this morning for 7 more months. Please pray for him and their family. They have two boys and they are old enough to know what is going on. Your prayers are greatly appreciated.

Relief

2007-11-18T23:26:00.000-05:00

Jackson had two biopsies done on November 8th. One on his leg and one on his arm. We got the call on November 15th, that everything is ok and that we need to have him checked in 6 months, but he should grow out of it. I never knew what worry was until I thought something might not be ok with my little one. What a scary thing. Thank God he is ok.

Halloween Time!!

2007-11-18T23:18:00.000-05:00

Jackson was a bumble bee for Halloween.

Trip down south...

2007-11-18T22:53:00.000-05:00

Doesn't he look sooooo onery?!!!!
Sam just "hangin" around
Well, I have to say I was a little worried about Jackson's first time flying. I don't know why. You would have thought that I had never flown. I was a Flight Attendant for goodness sakes. Anyway, he did great!! Besides the fact that we got his carseat stuck in the seat and had to take the seatbelt out of the plane to get it out. This is the First Officer and one of the Flight Attendants.
How stinkin cute is this? He is looking in a wishing well at fish. We were at a Japanese/Hibachi Steak House. I can still taste the shrimp.
Sam and Denver, man they are growing up too fast!!!!
Well, in the two weeks we were gone, we ended up in the ER twice. The first time was because he had a high fever. The ER doctor said he had an ear infection and gave him Amoxicillin. He seemed to get better and then about five days later, it started with two bumps on his face. It then progressed into a rash all over him. So we took him back to the ER and they said to discontinue the Amox. I have never seen a rash like this before. I wasn't even sure we were going to fly back. Eric talked about coming down to get us. But, thank God, he got better. So this picture is when we were in Savannah Memorial Hospital. He still smiled all the time. Even though he didn't feel good. Bless his heart.

Here is a picture of him with the rash about 2 days after we had him to the ER...the second time. You can't really see very good in this picture, but it will give you an idea.

Trip down south...

2007-11-18T22:36:00.000-05:00

Jackson taking it easy as we get back into Georgia from Florida.
Aunt Paige and Jackson. Having lunch in Historic
Savannah.
Cobblestone streets, I love it down there.
Picking Sam up from school. You can't even believe the line that you go through to pick him up. The schools in Richmond Hill are in the top 10th percentile in the nation, and when I say they are strict, I mean they are strict!!
Jackson enjoyed watching the lizards and picking Aunt Paige's bushes.

Our trip down south...

2007-11-18T22:21:00.001-05:00

So, if any of you know me, you know that I am a southern person. I love the beach and warm weather. I am hoping that Jackson will take after me in that aspect. He liked playing in the sand and ate a little bit of it.
This is pretty fun stuff, should I stick it in my mouth?
This is Sam. They loved getting their baths with each other. Thank goodness Paige's tub is big. I loved the jets, Jackson was scared of them. I couldn't have them on if he was around.
Denver and Sam cooking a grilled cheese.
Florida, here we come!!!

It's Fairtime!!

2007-11-18T22:08:00.000-05:00

We had beautiful weather for our Fair this year. Aiden and Jackson were a lot of fun. Jackson loved the animals and wasn't quite sure about a few of them. He is used to our dog and cat, but the sheep, chicken's and goats, he just didn't know what to think.
I seriously about peed my pants when I saw the look on his face.
Aiden liked the merry-go-round.
What in the world are you?!!!!
At one point in the barns, one of the sheep bleaked really loud and Jackson was right next to it, he screamed. It scared him, but within seconds he was smiling at them again. Papaw showing Jackson the sheep.

Spending time with out of town family...

2007-11-18T21:57:00.000-05:00

I thought this face was too cute!!
This is Jackson's Great-Grandmother and Great-Grandfather
Aunt Marie and Uncle Kenny, I think Uncle Kenny enjoyed playing more than Jackson did!
Couldn't take the pressure!!!
He loves this box. It's kind of nice to not have to chase him all over the place. Haha

It Has Been Way Too Long!!!!

2007-11-17T01:01:00.000-05:00

Well I have to apologize to you all for not updating in about 3 months...Christy and Angela are about to kill me. Anyway, Jackson is growing and talking and smiling more and more everyday. Fair time was great. He loved the animals and watched every move Aiden made. He rode the ponies!! It was the cutest thing. He patted the horse as he rode.

October came and Jackson took his first airplane ride. We went to Georgia and Florida for two weeks. He liked the plane and we got really neat pictures of him on the plane, his first time at the beach eating the sand, playing with Denver and Sam, and his two trips to the Emergency Room...I'll explain later with the pics I post.

November brought some worry to us. Jackson had to have 2 biopsies done. One on his leg and one on his arm. We took him to Granville to a dermatologist. She did a punch biopsy and told us to wait a week for the results. Easy for her to say. I spent the week crying and worrying. We received a phone call and were told that everything was fine and they would re-check it in 6 months...but he would probably grow out of it. Thank you God!!!!!

We had his 9 month old check-up yesterday and he is 28 inches long, and 18 pounds. She said that he has slowed a bit growing, but, as you all know, Eric and I are not big people. Jackson isn't going to be very big. I weighed 19 pounds when I was 2. She said he looks good. Had three shots. I HATE THAT!!! I think it hurts mom more than it hurts him.

So there you have it...3 long months. I will be posting some pics this weekend. I have put it off long enough. Of course it will have to wait until after our Buckeye's beat that "M" word...that is a bad word in our home and we are trying to watch what we say in front of our little one. Hahaha!! Thanks for being patient with me.

Get together at Stephen's

2007-08-25T23:56:00.001-04:00

We went to Stephen's today to have a barbeque. Papaw and his grandson's.
Sarah and Grandma
This is Sarah's mom, Michele
The ducks are not afraid of anything, or anyone. Jackson watched as they walked right onto the patio.
What can I say about this picture? Go Bucks!!!!

Canal Days Parade

2007-08-25T23:47:00.001-04:00

Stephen, Sarah and Aiden came for the weekend of Canal Days. We took Aiden and Jackson to the parade and they both loved it. Aiden didn't take his eyes off of anything going by.
Jackson sat in his stroller sucking his two favorite fingers until the fire trucks went by with their siren...

As you can see, it scared the living daylights out of him.
Mamaw, Jackson and Great Grandma after the parade.

Jackson's New Bath Seat

2007-08-25T23:41:00.000-04:00

Grandma and Grandad bought Jackson a new bath seat. He loves it. I think I am more wet than he is when he is done with his bath. Thanks Grandma and Grandad.

Jackson's Dedication

2007-08-25T23:26:00.000-04:00

On August 12th, Eric and I had Jackson dedicated at church. Pastor Steve took him in his arms and said he probably had already been drafted for the NFL. I said he has to play for Ohio State first. The day was very special and I am so thankful that Pastor Steve was able to dedicate him before he left. He received his first bible and a certificate

We had a get together after the dedication and Aiden was all tuckered out. He loves playing with Jackson's things.
As you can see, Jackson was all tuckered out too.

Sunset at Tappan Lake

2007-08-25T23:22:00.000-04:00

What a sight!! We had such a great time with family on the lake. We enjoyed boating, cooking out and relaxing by the fire.

A Day at Tappan Lake

2007-08-25T23:13:00.000-04:00

Eric, Uncle Kenny and Ralph boating at Tappan Lake
Ralph thinking he's cool with his shades on.
Ralph and Shane
Ralph, Penny and Shane
Aunt Marie

2007-08-11T10:10:00.000-04:00

The other night, I went in to check on Jackson and this was the position he was in.
I put Jackson down for a nap and when I went in to get him, this is the way I found him. I don't know how long he was in this position, but from the hand print on his face, it must have been a while.

Uncle Jon stopped by and spent some time with us.

2007-08-11T09:42:00.000-04:00

Jackson is starting to get up on his hands and knees. He hasn't figured out how to "go" yet, but it won't be long. He kind of goes backwards.

Daisy looks really onery here...she wants that ball so bad she can't stand it. Two pictures up will show you Daisy in the background with the ball she is staring at in this picture.

Another bath at Grandma's, his hair is actually laying down here...only because it's wet though.

More pics of Jackson

2007-08-07T16:28:00.000-04:00

Our Ohio State Man. Starting him out early.

Go Buck's!!!!!!!

Jackson is starting to want to climb around and lay right in the water. He loves it.
I couldn't resist his cute little bum.
Gotta love those eye's...
Jenny and I had lunch at Thomas's today.
Jenny, Lee and their boys moved to West Virginia a little over a month and a half ago. We sure do miss them.

The Girls Get Together

2007-08-07T15:44:00.000-04:00

Sara, Cooksey, Stefanie, Mandy and I spent Saturday out at Sara's cabin. We fished and ate and had a great time. Lot's of laughing.
From L to R...Cooksey, Mandy, Sara, Me and Stefanie
We threw Mandy a baby shower on Sunday. Can't wait for that little one to come...we are all waiting to find out if we are having a boy or a girl.

Due Date...October 2, 2007

That is Mandy's husband, Matt.

Jackson having fun outside.

2007-08-02T22:26:00.001-04:00

Jackson loved pulling the grass and the flowers. Of course, it went straight to his mouth.

A visit from Machella

2007-08-02T22:19:00.000-04:00

Jackson and I had a visitor today. Machella, who was one of my cheerleaders and graduated this past year, is moving to Arizona tomorrow. She will be attending nursing school. We enjoyed having her and will miss her.

Fun in the sun!

2007-08-02T21:54:00.000-04:00

Swimming at The Ogle's. Aubrey and Taylyr

having a fun day in the sun.

Jackson's 6 Month Check-up

2007-08-01T00:13:00.000-04:00

Jackson had his 6th month check-up today. He is 26.5 inches long and weighs 15lbs. 5oz. He cried when he got his shots, but I picked him up and he smiled at me. I think the shots hurt me worse than they hurt him. He is doing well and growing like a weed.

2007-07-30T23:34:00.000-04:00

Daisy and Jackson...I think Daisy is smiling...

2007-07-27T11:15:00.000-04:00

Jackson is so curious about the shoes we put on him, they don't stay on long.
Meemaw Debbie

2007-07-27T10:43:00.000-04:00

Playing outside on the patio
Taking a bath in Grandma's sink
This is the first time Jackson was in his stroller without the carseat, he loved it.

My little beach bum

2007-07-27T00:00:00.000-04:00

Jackson loves "Crazy Daisy", until he starts chasing her. Stay tuned...
Hanging out with Cousin Aiden
"I love carrots, mom!"
"Like my hair, dude?"

2007-07-26T23:51:00.000-04:00

Swimming at Aunt Angela's with Aubrey

Aunt Paige was home this summer from Georgia. This was the first time she got to see Jackson in person.

These are Aunt Paige's boys.

Denver and Samuel.
First time eating sweet potatoes. Too Funny!!!

2007-06-03T21:48:00.000-04:00

Mamaw cuddling Jackson as he looks at Crazy Daisy
Stephen, my brother, and my grandma celebrated their birthday together. Pictured are me, Great Grandma holding Jackson, Mamaw holding Cousin Aiden, Aunt Sarah, Daddy, Uncle Stephen and Papaw

2007-06-03T21:38:00.000-04:00

This is Cousin Aiden
Uncle Steve and Aiden
Grandad and Jackson hanging out
Papaw enjoying his grandson
Grandma, Jackson and Daisy

2007-06-03T21:24:00.000-04:00

Cousin Aiden and Uncle Steve came for a visit today. Jackson just watches everything Aiden does.
This is Jackson's Jumparoo. He loves it. He jumps so much that he usually falls asleep in it...
See what I mean?
Jackson loves to be outside. Just relaxing and giving Mom a grin.

2007-06-02T23:07:00.000-04:00

Jackson's first Valentine's Day. Grandma Penny bought him the bib.
He loves his bathtime.
The Redskin's played at Claymont for their first tournament game this past season. This was his first basketball game. Breaking him in early. He slept right through most of the game.
Daddy, Daisy and Jackson. Daisy thinks she needs to be in all the pictures.
Aunt Angela and Jackson's first St. Patrick's Day.

2007-06-02T21:51:00.000-04:00

May 14th, 2006 - Mother's Day...We're pregnant!!!

My water broke on my due date, January 16 at 10:30 in the morning. We packed up and headed to Grant Medical Center in Columbus. 14 hours and a C-Section later Jackson Ryan Smith was born on January 17, 2007. He weighed 6 lbs. 9 oz. and was 18.5 inches long. That first cry was amazing.

Aiden, Jackson's cousin, doesn't quite know what to think of him. They will be good buddies.