The Crawford Family

Birthday and Blog

2010-06-30T18:27:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday to my sweet little girl, Caitlyn! I can't believe she's a year old!

Now for the blog...I know I've been terrible. I'm going to try to do better by using my mac.com account. It's much easier to upload pictures and videos. So what I guess I'm trying to say is my blog is moving.

P. S. I will post a true birthday blog on the website.

Oh yeah, I guess I should give you the link. :)

http://web.me.com/lesliedaniel/

Here Goes Nothin'

2010-03-07T12:31:00.004-05:00

I am going to start couponing!! Wish me luck! Thanks to Magen for answering all my questions! If you have any tips for me I would love it! And when I get it figured out, I will totally help anyone who wants it!

What I have learned so far:

-Get several papers and keep the coupons until they expire!! (You can ask family member and/or neighbors for their ads.)

-You have to be flexible in brands. (For example, if you use pampers, but there is a good deal on huggies, you have to go for it!)

-Go to several different stores to get all the deals. (CVS, Target, Walgreens, RiteAid, Publix, Walmart)

-Sometimes in order to get the best deal, you have to buy a few extras that you might not use right away or even at all. Just save them for later or give them to someone who can use them!

-If you don't understand something, ask!! (I ask Magen and she rocks! Thanks girl!)

-There are a TON of websites you can go to that have scenarios galore. You can find them below. (Thanks again Magen!)

Websites:

Saving Money and Living Life

Bear with me!

2010-02-22T19:28:00.000-05:00

I know it looks crazy right now, but I'm working on it!

Caitlyn's Laugh

2010-02-22T18:59:00.001-05:00

Snow Day!

2010-02-12T17:20:00.002-05:00

Happy Snow Day!!!

Really, it's coming!!

2010-01-25T21:46:00.001-05:00

I know! I'm terrible!!!! SORRY! I will try to work on it this week!

Christmas is coming...

2010-01-07T22:32:00.002-05:00

I gotta take a break though...

Look at me!

2010-01-07T21:44:00.003-05:00

Thanksgiving in Pictures

2010-01-07T21:03:00.005-05:00

Yes, I know...

2010-01-05T21:36:00.002-05:00

that I'm supposed to be updating still. I'm working on it! :) Thanksgiving, Christmas and Beach/6months are coming soon!

Caitlyn's Baptism

2010-01-03T14:25:00.005-05:00

Caitlyn had her baptism on November 15th. Mike Holly and Dr. Dixon Mitchell shared the duties. Dr. Dixon married us so it was very special that he was able to be there. The whole family came. Grandmama, Nana, Pop, Meme, Papa Jack, Uncle Will, Aunt Amy, Uncle Scott, Aunt Courtney, Uncle Jamie, Whitney, Nolan, Mali, Hattie, Granny, Pa, MawMaw, PawPaw, GG, Uncle Henry, Aunt Leigh Anne, Abby, Sarah, Carley, and Allison! It was such a special day!

We had a nice lunch at our house afterwards!

Gatlinburg 2009

2010-01-01T22:43:00.014-05:00

Better late than never!! Back in October, the Crawford family went to Gatlinburg for our 2nd annual trip. Nana and Pop rented a great cabin with a BEAUTIFUL VIEW!

(Thanks, Uncle Scott for the pictures!)

There were 14 of us in all!

Granny and Pa

Nana and Pop

Amy, Will, Nolan, and Mallory; Scott, Courtney, and Hattie; and our Family (Daniel, Leslie and Caitlyn).

We were the last to arrive because Daniel was out of town the week before. It was 3 o'clock in the morning and we had to be very quiet, but Nana and Pop were up to welcome us even at the early/late hour.

On Saturday we all bundled up and went to OberGatlinburg (sp.). Everyone (including Caitlyn and Hattie) rode up the ski lift to see "rocky top".

Then we took some family pictures.

The Shaver's-Amy, Will, Nolan, and Mallory

The Crawford's-Scott, Courtney, and Hattie

The Crawford's-Daniel, Leslie, and Caitlyn

The Whole Family

Mama's and their packs! :)

We (especially Mali and Nolan) were looking forward to seeing the old men at the top play "Rocky Top". It was SO cold and then it started to rain, so we took the babies down and let the big kids watch. We were sad to miss "rocky top"! Nolan and Mali played some games when they came down and then we all went back to the cabin.

The most amazing thing happened that afternoon!! Nana, Nolan, and Mali were out on the porch looking at the view and they heard a noise. Nana said shhhh...maybe its some bears. And then it was!!! 3 of them. A mama and her 2 cubs. Right behind our cabin! They stayed for a while and everyone got to enjoy seeing them.

On Sunday, Scott and Courtney had to get ready to leave so we took some family pictures.

Then we all (minus Daniel, he wasn't feeling so good) hopped in the car and headed to Cade's Cove. It was a nice drive and we enjoyed ice cream cones at the end. That night we all went to a nice dinner.

On Monday morning, we all packed up and went home. It was a WONDERFUL trip and we can't wait to do it again.

A New Year...

2010-01-01T22:36:00.003-05:00

Maybe I should blog more!! My new year's resolution will be to TRY to blog more often!! Christmas blog(s) coming soon!

5 months old!

2009-11-30T21:12:00.004-05:00

WOW! I can't believe Caitlyn is already 5 months old! How the time has flown by! Caitlyn has grown so much in the past month. We experienced our first ear infection a few weeks ago. It was NO fun! Caitlyn also went to the doctor for her 4 month well check up (a little late because of the ear infection). She weighed 16 lbs. 8 1/2 oz. which is in the 90th percentile. She is 26.5 inches long, in the 95th percentile. Her head is 16 in., in the 50th percentile. Caitlyn has learned a few new tricks in the past month too. She can roll from her back to her front AND her front to her back. She doesn't do either very often, but she's done both a few times. Daniel and I finally got to hear her laugh out loud too. She doesn't do that very often either, but when she does, it the sweetest thing I've ever heard. Her favorite activity right now is jumping. Yes, thats right, jumping! We have a jumper that fits in the door frame and she LOVES it! I will have to post a video soon. It's so cute! She's babbling and smiling all the time. We also have discovered that she can do the tri-pod. Basically she is sitting, but propped up with her hands in front of her between her legs. She's pretty good at it, but still has a little ways to go before she'll sit up on her on. We have also eating baby food! She seems to enjoy sweet potatoes and we still aren't sure about green beans. I'm sure I've forgotten something, but I'll have to write about it later!

This is her tri-pod!

Happy Halloween, Y'all!

2009-10-31T21:15:00.002-04:00

Happy Halloween from our cute little Pumpkin!!

4 months old...on time!!

2009-10-30T19:30:00.004-04:00

I know, I know. My three months old post is a whole month late. In my defense, I wrote it way back when she had just turned 3 months old, but kept adding to it. Then when I thought I would post it, I had to add pictures. Well, they just got posted today! Oh well, I do the best I can.

I can't believe Caitlyn is already 4 months old. We have truly loved every minute of being her parents. She is a wonderful baby and we are so blessed. We go back to the doctor next Wednesday for her well check-up. 2 weeks ago she weighed 14 lbs. 4 oz. so I am interested to see how much she has grown.

Since I posted pictures of her adventures last time, I think I will post a picture from each month.

Birthday

1 month old

2 months old

3 months old

4 months old (today!)

3 months old....a little late!

2009-10-12T18:38:00.014-04:00

We can't believe that little Caitlyn is already 3 months old!!! Where has all that time gone. We went to the gastro doctor last week and she weighed in at 14 lbs. 4 oz. I'm pretty sure her length has changed too, but they didn't measure her this time. She has her 4 month well visit on Nov. 3rd, so I will update her length then!

We have been VERY busy this past month! Mommy started a

new job on Sept. 16 teaching Kindergarten at Brookville Elementary School. I am adjusting to the school and students, but boy is kindergarten tough! I am SO glad to be teaching again and know it will get easier with time. This past weekend Daniel and I went up to the school to organize my classroom and now it looks great!! Going back to work and leaving Caitlyn is hard. She is so lucky to have three grandmothers who take care of her while Mommy goes to work! Nana and Grandmama take two days each and MeMe (and Papa Jack) gets a day.

Daddy has been busy at work too, and soon he will be leaving us for a week to go to Pennsylvania! We will be lonely without him, but hopefully after this trip things will slow down at work.

Caitlyn has been busy too. She is holding her head up like a pro, sucking that thumb and most recently, rolling over! Uncle Jamie said she laughed, but Daddy and Mommy haven't heard it yet. Hopefully soon! She has been a ton of places in the past month too.

We've been to the zoo,

to Auburn to see the Tigers play,

swimming with Hattie,

back to Auburn,

and back to the zoo for Boo in the Zoo.

Caitlyn has found...

2009-09-22T21:36:00.003-04:00

Her Thumb!!

It's the cutest thing ever! I know eventually I wil

l wish she never found it, but it helps her sleep ALL night!! And when I say ALL night, I mean from 9:30 to 8:00. She still wakes up sometimes for an early morning feeding, but she is doing great!! I'll leave you with a picture of her sucking that thumb!

War Eagle!

2009-09-12T18:16:00.003-04:00

Caitlyn says WARRRRRRRRRRRRR EAGLE, HEY!

2 months old!

2009-09-02T19:06:00.002-04:00

I can't believe that our precious girl is already 2 months old. We went to the doctor yesterday for her 2 month well check-up. It was VERY crowded, but luckily they have separate waiting rooms for well patients and sick patients. We had to wait almost 30 minutes to get called back, probably because of all the sick patients! The nurse weighed Caitlyn in at 12 lbs. 14 1/2 oz. (95th percentile) and measured her length (24 in.-95th percentile) and head circumference (15 in.-50th percentile). While we waited for the doctor to come in, she did some tummy time and I took a few cute pictures.

3 posts in 2 days!

2009-08-29T12:35:00.003-04:00

I know, its crazy that I have updated 3 times in 2 days! I was thinking about uploading more pictures, but pretty much everyone who reads this blog is my friend (or Daniel's friend) on facebook, and it is MUCH faster to upload pictures to facebook. So I am sending you to facebook to look at the tons of pictures we have taken! If you are not a facebook member/friend, let me know and I will get the pictures to you some other way! I will still post some pictures on here, but this will kind of get us caught up!

Isn't she the most precious thing you've ever seen???

See how she has changed!

2009-08-28T17:22:00.009-04:00

So I thought it would be kinda cool if I posted pictures of each week in one post, so everyone can see how she has grown!

Newborn

1 week

2 weeks

3 weeks

4 weeks

5 weeks

6 weeks

7 weeks

8 weeks

Update!

2009-08-28T14:42:00.007-04:00

Well, I know I have been absolutely terrible at updating the blog since Caitlyn was born. Things are as busy as ever with our little family and I must confess that I had to choose between luxuries (i.e. blogging). I have found that in my free time I would rather read a book than watch TV, look at facebook, and blog (not that I have much free time). I am still working on finding a job and I can only imagine how much worse a blogger that will make me! Enough about me though! I know our 3 readers don't come to read about me anymore, you want to know about our precious baby girl.

She is growing up so fast! I can't believe she will be 2 months old in a couple of days. It feels like it was just yesterday that we were waiting so (im)patiently for her arrival. We went to see Dr. Morris on Tuesday. He is Caitlyn's GI doctor. She has been having some reflux issues and we are trying to work through them. They weighed her in the office and at 8 weeks old is weighing in at 12 lbs. 9 oz. She loves to eat and she eats a ton! We are still exclusively feeding her breastmilk, but she does get at least one bottle everyday so we can give her one of her medicines.

At 8 weeks old here are some things she can do/enjoys:

*She loves tummy time!

*She likes swinging in her swing too (this only lasts 15 to 20 minutes at a time though).

*She smiles at Mommy and Daddy often and it just melts our hearts. However, get the camera out and she will NOT smile, just frown at you like "What do you think you're going to do with that??"

*She loves talking to us! She coos and giggles a little and we talk to her. I would love to know what she is thinking!

*She loves to stare at Uncle Jamie. We don't know why she is so entranced by him, but lucky Jamie!

*She falls asleep in the car seat every time! It sometimes takes a few minutes, but it never fails!

*She sleeps 5 to 6 1/2 hours at night!! (It's wonderful!!) But she won't nap longer than 30 minutes in the daytime...Mommy can't get anything done! (Tips are appreciated!!)

*She seems to enjoy our walks, but mostly sleeps during them.

*She loves mobiles, ceiling fans and pretty much anything that she can look up at.

*She is getting really good at holding her head up. She can do it for longer amounts of time now. She does it on her tummy and when you are holding her upright. I think she desperately wants to be able to do it all the time so she can look around more, but it still tires her out if she does it too long.

*She loves "standing" or pushing up with her feet.

*She loves bath time now. We were worried for a while because she cried every time we would bathe her (before, during and after). But now she seems to enjoy every bit of it; she smiles and coos the whole time. We all do bath time together. Daddy gets the water ready while Mommy gets her bedtime clothes out. Then Daddy bathes her while Mommy washes her hair!

*There are probably a ton more things I haven't said, but I can't think of anymore at the moment.

We go back to Dr. McCown next Tuesday for her 2 month checkup! Maybe I will find a moment to update again to tell you about it!

Alright, I am going to try and post pictures now!! Enjoy!

Caitlyn meets her family!

2009-08-04T17:30:00.030-04:00

Meeting her Grandparents

Grandmama

Meme

Papa Jack

Not so sure about him already...(just kidding, Dad!)

Nana

Pop

Meeting her Aunts, Uncles and Cousins

Aunt CoCo

Uncle Jamie

"Aunt" Whitney

Uncle Scott

Aunt Courtney

Cousin Hattie (born 12 days before Caitlyn)

We got to meet precious Hattie too!

Back to the Aunts, Uncles and Cousins

Aunt Amy

Uncle Will

Cousin Nolan

Cousin Mallory

Meeting the Great Grandparents

MawMaw

PawPaw

GG (stands for Great Grandmother)

Granny

Granny and Pa

Other Family Members

Aunt Leigh Anne

Uncle Henry...if only you could see him!

Cousin Abby

Cousin Sarah

(Somehow I don't have a picture of her holding Caitlyn. She's the one in green!)

Cousin Jenny

(Aunt Millie was here too, but for some reason I didn't take a picture.)

Aunt Susan

Caitlyn has also met:

Aunts and Uncles: Aunt Millie, Aunt Mona, Uncle Ronnie, Aunt Nay, Uncle Randall, Aunt Rhonda, Uncle James, Uncle Russell, and Aunt Kristie

Cousins: Jennifer, Scott, Wyatt, Caleb, Jared, Eric, Julie, Alex, Elaina, Katy, Jason, Hadley, Jacob, Lela, Justin, Kayla, Gabriel, Clint, Leah and Baby Randolph (due in Nov.), Clay, Alyson, Bradley, Noah (born the same day), Payden, Ashley, Breslin, and Kaylee

1 month old already!

2009-08-02T20:44:00.006-04:00

I have been terrible about updating the blog. I have posted pictures to facebook, but its so slow to post them here too. Hopefully I will be able to post more often in the future!

I cannot believe that Caitlyn is already a month old. She is really a good baby. She doesn't fuss unless she is hungry or trying to go to the bathroom (she has a little problem with that...) She is a great eater. At her 2 week appointment with the pediatrician she weighed 8 lbs. 14 oz. I'd be willing to bet she is 10 lbs. or more now. We don't go back to the doctor until September. The doctor was very impressed with her strength at two weeks. He said she would probably roll over early, but it hasn't happened yet. She still does a lot of sleeping, but has longer active periods now. She will loves to look at her mobiles and ceiling fans! She is just getting the hang of her sweet smile. We still don't get it very often, but hopefully this will change in the next week or so. She LOVES tummy time and would probably spend all her awake time on her tummy if I would let her. She still isn't too sure about bath time. When we put her in the bath she cries for a few seconds and then seems to think, "well, maybe this isn't so bad!" Then when it's time to get out, she cries again. I think it must be the cold feeling. We have been out and about a ton! I know everyone thinks I am crazy, and some days I think I'm crazy, but she has enjoyed visiting friends and seeing different places. We have been to Grandmama's, Nana and Pop's, Meme and Papa Jack's (yes, he finally decided on a name!), out to eat a bunch, to Jasper for a family reunion, to a rehearsal dinner and wedding for cousin Justin, and even all the way to Charlotte, NC!

Charlotte (the dog) has adjusted pretty well to her new baby sister. At first she didn't really seem to care at all. Then she got a little curious wanting to sniff her. Lately, she will lick her hands and try to lick her face, but she mostly ignores her. She does stay pretty calm around Caitlyn, but still gets a little overexcited when visitors come (which is every day for the past month! Yes, we've had at least one visitor every single day!)

Daniel went back to work the Monday after she was born, but Grandmama (my mom) stayed with us for about 10 days! It was a blessing to have her here! Daniel is the best daddy! He is a natural! She looks just like him too! I love to see them interacting and can't wait to see their relationship grow! Just this morning at church he was telling her "NO boyfriends!" (There's a precious 5 month old in our Sunday school class and I was calling him her boyfriend! Watch out, Daddy!) He really is a great daddy and it makes me fall in love with him all over again.

As for me, I LOVE being a mommy! It is amazing to finally know this wonderful little person who was growing inside of me for 9 months. I love her more everyday! I have recovered very well. My labor really was fairly easy (I won't go into details here, but if you want them just ask.)

We can't wait to continue to watch her grow and pray that we teach her all that we can. My Granny gave me the best advice yesterday. She told me to make sure we teach her how to love everyone! I truly pray that we can do this because that is what life is about, and I hope most of all that she learns to love God, like Daniel and I do.

Alright, enough talking, time for the pictures! I'm just going to pick a few of my favorites from the last month. I'm going to post them in future posts!

Catherine Lynda Crawford

2009-07-01T08:09:00.004-04:00

Catherine Lynda Crawford (Caitlyn) arrived Tuesday evening at 5:04pm. She weighed in at 8lbs and is 20 1/4 in. long. She is beautiful and perfect, everything a mother could hope for! I'm in awe. Mommy, Daddy, and Caitlyn are doing perfect.

Coming Soon (Tomorrow!)...Catherine Lynda Crawford

2009-06-29T19:48:00.002-04:00

We went to the doctor today because I am having some really severe back pain. Doctor Tamucci said I wasn't in active labor, but that my cervix is favorable for induction. So Becky (the most wonderful nurse in the world) called Dr. Straughn (my real doctor) and asked if we could schedule an induction for tomorrow! She said YES! Hooray!! Baby Caitlyn is almost here! We cannot wait to meet her! We will try to post something tomorrow, but will be a little bit busy, so no promises! Check facebook and our website and here for updated pictures. Just in case you don't know it, our website is

http://web.me.com/lesliedaniel

Daniel tends to update that one and I update the blog! :) We are SUPER excited and can't wait to introduce you to our beautiful baby girl.

38 weeks

2009-06-25T22:44:00.005-04:00

Nursery Update!

2009-06-20T08:46:00.005-04:00

37 weeks

2009-06-20T08:27:00.004-04:00

Hattie Caroline Crawford

2009-06-19T07:17:00.002-04:00

Last evening, about 7:30 our time, we got the call that Hattie Caroline Crawford had made her entrance into the world! She was born at 8:12pm and weighed 7lbs, 5 oz. She is 20 1/4 in. long and has dark hair! She is beautiful! We couldn't be there to welcome her into the world, but we can't wait to meet her in person. Courtney is doing great!

36 weeks

2009-06-16T20:47:00.004-04:00

We forgot to take pictures this week, so here is the best I can do! :)

Holy Cow!

2009-06-14T23:11:00.002-04:00

Only 20 days left! I can't believe it! It could be sooner though. At my appointment on Wednesday, I was 1 cm dilated and 75% effaced. Next appointment is this Wednesday. We can't wait to meet Caitlyn!

Sweet Daddy!

2009-06-09T22:13:00.004-04:00

Daniel is SO thoughtful! He went today and bought Mommy (well, really Caitlyn) a present! Here is a picture of it!

Daniel's Baby Shower

2009-06-09T21:38:00.004-04:00

Daniel's co-workers threw us a shower today, but I couldn't make it! Here are a few pictures from the event!

Daniel and the food table.

The cute cake!

Brooks giving Daniel some advice about becoming a dad.

Alan Bruce giving Daniel our gift. (They are so silly!)

Daniel opening the sweet card! Thanks guys! Wish I could have been there!

Beginning of the Nursery!

2009-06-09T20:47:00.007-04:00

Here are the pictures of the nursery so far!

Daniel painting the ceiling.

Installing the new blinds.

Daniel moved all of the furniture into the room! I am enjoying our new chair from Dad (Gramps...maybe) and Reba (Meme). It was in Colby's nursery!

Charlotte isn't quite sure what to think yet! But so far she has enjoyed sleeping on Caitlyn's floor. She seems to know that this is a calm place.

Daniel is putting together the crib!

Still working...

Finished/Relaxing!

Ta-da!

Me standing by the crib!

Looking in the door.

Just inside the door, looking at the window over the dresser/changing table.

The crib (with mattress) and bookshelf.

Chifforobe, glider, and bookshelf.

Looking out the door.

Another view.

My dad helped us install this fan (it used to be a baseball fan, with bats, glove and ball).

The dresser/changing table up close.

Chifforobe up close.

Bookshelf up close. This book shelf is very special. We thought that my grandfather made it, but it turns out that my mom's grandfather actually made it. We think it is 60 to 70 years old! What a neat thing to be able to pass down!

Glider up close!

My bedding hasn't come in yet, but it is suppose to be here by the end of this week. I will continue to post pictures as we decorate and finish the room. And yes, I realize that we only have 3 1/2 weeks to go. At this point though, we have what we need! It might not be perfect but if she came tomorrow, we would survive!

Baby Shower

2009-06-09T20:05:00.006-04:00

I just realized that I never posted anything about my baby shower! It was wonderful! My hostesses did a great job! The food was delicious and we got a TON of wonderful things for sweet Caitlyn! Here are some pictures from the party!

My sweet co-workers who came. Joni, Elizabeth, and Rebekah

Colby was "Master of Ceremonies"!

Me enjoying the delicious food!

Carley had a fun game for me to play. I had to guess what was in a present without peeking! I must say, I did quite well (even if they were pretty easy)!

Opening my gifts!

Courtney (aka Aunt Court Court) made this beautiful bow holder!

Colby made Caitlyn some beautiful letters for the nursery! Somehow I didn't get a picture of the whole name. I'll have to get one from Evan!

Reba made this wreath herself! I LOVE it! We will use it in the hospital and on our front door when we bring Caitlyn home! It says "Caitlyn is here!" My friends and family are so creative!

Me opening the stroller/car seat set from the Crawford's and Granny and Pa.

My sweet DG's!!

My wonderful hostesses (minus Amy and Courtney C.)!!! GREAT JOB! I love you girls!

Colby loving on me and Caitlyn!

Colby, Reba (Meme) and I

My momma! (Grandma, I think...she still can't decide!)

Aunt Leigh Anne, Abby and Sarah came!

Whitney came too! (She gave Caitlyn the most beautiful paci-clip engraved with a "C")

Nana!

Aunt Court Court loving on Caitlyn!

When just about everyone had left, I felt Caitlyn moving and decided to show everyone who was left! It really is the coolest thing ever! I will try to get Daniel to take a video of her moving and post it!

Colby LOVES feeling Caitlyn move!

35 weeks

2009-06-09T19:53:00.003-04:00

As promised!

I know, I know...

2009-06-09T15:07:00.001-04:00

I promised nursery pictures and 35 week pictures and never delivered! BUT tonight I will! I know you will be waiting anxiously (all 2 of you!).

Coming Soon...

2009-06-02T15:32:00.001-04:00

Look for nursery pictures and 35 weeks pictures soon! I am trying to keep up!! :)

34 Weeks

2009-05-31T19:52:00.004-04:00

Beach Trip!

2009-05-31T18:47:00.005-04:00

Well, as I posted last weekend, our beach trip started out a little rough. It was so rainy and didn't look like it was going to get sunny all weekend. Saturday morning we got up and went for a drive through Seaside, Seagrove and Watercolors (in the rain). About 2:00 the rain stopped and we decided to get ready and run to the beach while we had the chance! I was SO happy we actually got to go to the beach. Daniel was still a little mad about the rain and he wanted some sunshine! It finally came out at about 3:30 and we stayed at the beach until about 4:45. We had to go back to the condo and get ready for dinner with one of Daniel's forestry buddies! We ate at Back Porch in Panama City Beach (at Pier Park). It was VERY tasty! We had to call it an early night because I wasn't feeling very well, but it was nice to spend time with some old friends and meet some new friends (Sorry, forgot to take the camera to dinner).

On Sunday, it was raining again and we thought we would have to go home with only one tiny trip to the actual beach. We decided we would wait until the afternoon to see if the sun would come out. Finally it stopped raining (about 2:00 again) so we got our bathing suits on again and walked to the beach. We forgot to take the beach umbrella, but weren't too worried since it still wasn't really sunny. Then later we wished we had that umbrella because the sun decided to show its face again. It was beautiful! We stayed on the beach for a while until we got too hot and then decided we were going to go ahead and come home that night so that we could paint the nursery on Monday. I was a little bummed that we were cutting our vacation short, but I'm glad now since the nursery is painted!

Enjoy our few pictures from our short, but fun, beach trip!

Getting ready really quick, so we didn't miss our chance!

Yay! We made it to the beach!

Daniel's mad about the rain, and wishing the sun would come out to play!

The beautiful ocean!

Daniel wouldn't let me ask anyone to take our picture, so here is our attempt!

My maternity bathing suit...

Daniel even got a little burned (with 70 spf on). We were definitely wishing for that umbrella at this point!

The sun came out and the beach was wonderful.

I love the beach!!

33 weeks - Take 2!

2009-05-31T18:35:00.003-04:00

I found a couple of pictures from our beach trip that have my belly in them. SO even though they are from the very end of week 33, I think it counts!

If you look in the mirror, you can kind of see my belly!

Me in my maternity bathing suit at the beach...

33 weeks...

2009-05-25T23:03:00.001-04:00

Well...bad news bears! I forgot to take a picture last week, so there you will have to wait for 34 weeks!

I will be posting about our beach trip soon! :)

Rain, Rain Go Away...

2009-05-23T12:53:00.003-04:00

We are at the beach for our last trip before sweet Caitlyn comes. But it is just pouring down rain! And it isn't suppose to get any better ALL weekend...

Maybe we will get some sunshine?? At least for an hour or two???

32 Weeks

2009-05-17T16:48:00.004-04:00

So, I have good news! I found my camera cord!! Maybe I will actually update every week now! Here are the pictures from last week.

31 Weeks

2009-05-14T20:18:00.003-04:00

Ok, so this is as far as I can go right now. I haven't taken my pictures this week, hopefully tonight!

Week 30

2009-05-14T20:11:00.003-04:00

Week 30...we're getting there!

Week 29

2009-05-13T19:41:00.002-04:00

Sorry, it doesn't seem like I took any pictures during the 28th week, so here is Week 29.

27 weeks

2009-05-13T19:25:00.003-04:00

Well, I am VERY late with these pictures but here they are! :)

Coming Soon...

2009-05-12T22:57:00.003-04:00

All the pictures that I have not posted! I know, I know! I am WAY behind! But I am uploading them to the computer tonight and will TRY to post them tomorrow night!

26 weeks

2009-04-04T23:30:00.005-04:00

I can't believe it, but I'm actually on time (well, 1 day late, but close enough!!) Enjoy!

25 weeks

2009-03-28T22:41:00.005-04:00

This should catch us up! I haven't taken pictures for this week yet (I usually take them at the end of the week). Maybe I will actually post them this week! Who knows!?

I decided to take a picture of myself! :)

Poor Charlotte doesn't know that her life is about to change forever!

She was being SO sweet, I just had to include these!

Its getting worse (my belly button)! Soon it will poke out all the way!

24 weeks

2009-03-28T22:16:00.006-04:00

Again, not the best shirt for pictures but I tried to show with my hands!

This face is awful!

Weird angle...

23 Weeks

2009-03-28T14:12:00.006-04:00

This wasn't the best shirt for picture taking...but you can get the general idea!

22 weeks

2009-03-28T13:27:00.006-04:00

Here are the late (are you surprised?) pictures from week 22! I'm growing bigger!

I'm not crazy about this super hero picture, but its all I have!

Snow Day Pictures

2009-03-28T13:12:00.006-04:00

Charlotte frolicing in the snow!

The snow was coming down so hard and the wind was blowing so hard that the Crawford's screened in porched was covered. You couldn't see anything through it!

We had a blast!

My car!

Finally, an update!

2009-03-28T12:39:00.007-04:00

Daniel and I have been (and still are) living out of boxes the past 3 months and my camera cord is still lost in one of them! However, I discovered today that our new video camera (Thanks, Mom!!) uses the same kind of memory stick as our regular camera (and I know where the cords are to it!). SO I stuck the one with all of our recent pictures into the video camera and Voila!

We have been doing GREAT this month!

Caitlyn continues to grow and surprise us everyday. It is so exciting to feel her moving inside of me. I do have to say that Daniel and I may be in for it when she gets here. She is the wigglingest thing EVER! She is constantly rolling around, kicking, punching and who knows what else in there. I have felt her since around week 18. We were with our friends, Jon and Elyssa, in Charlotte seeing the musical Rent when I felt her kick for the first time. It was so exciting for me. I could hardly focus on the rest of the show trying to feel her move again. I knew Daniel wouldn't get to feel her for a while but he was excited too! The very next day at about the same time at night, I felt her moving again and so I called him over. And she moved so hard that he actually felt her!! It was so sweet to see his face but he pulled his hand off so fast (I think it freaked him out a little). Anyway, she moves around all day (and night) especially after I eat! I still get excited every time! Even the ultrasound tech said she was a wiggle worm so I'm sure we're in trouble! We can't wait to meet her!

Daniel and I sold our house in Charlotte in February (sorry if I already blogged about it!) and after LOTS of searching found our perfect house here in Birmingham. It was kind of sad to say goodbye to our first home, but exciting that we could move forward with finding a house here! We closed on March 13th and did some painting before we officially moved in last Sunday! We are here now, but still living out of boxes. Its definitely a work in progress. Pictures to come soon! We have unpacked the kitchen and some of our bedroom and everything else we are taking slowly! We have a LONG ways to go!

Daniel is still enjoying his job in Harpersville. He has gotten to experience some cool forestry stuff lately. Maybe I can convince him to blog about it soon. He is excited to be in the house now and is slowly taking on little projects here and there.

I am growing a TON! I feel like these past few weeks have flown by. I have my glucose test next Tuesday (hopefully I pass). I DO have pictures and they will be up sometime today! You will be amazed! I am still working at the Goddard School and it is going well. I miss my first graders (3 1/2 year olds are MUCH different), but hopefully I will be able to find an elementary school job for next year.

Charlotte is adjusting to the new house slowly but surely. The fence is being built (hopefully) this week. Birmingham has had a TON of rain in the past week and more is expected this week so the fence keeps getting delayed, but Charlotte loves running around in the back yard! She has made it to the front yard (not on purpose) a couple of times. She wants to explore everywhere but she just doesn't listen to us when its time to come back! Missy will be back with us soon. She has been staying with Daniel's Granny and Pa for the past 4 months. There was a time when we thought we weren't going to get her back, but they have decided that once she has fully recovered from her de-claw, we can come and get her. Charlotte will be thrilled, I know! Probably not Missy though!

Without further ado, here are some pics from the past month!

21 Weeks

2009-02-28T12:14:00.002-05:00

Here are the latest pictures! I can't believe I am finally caught up! Maybe now I can keep up each week! :)

This one makes me look huge!

But you can see from this one, I'm really not THAT big!

BEWARE!! Gross picture ahead!!

Ok, this one needs some explanation! The past few weeks I have noticed my belly button start to inch its way forward! Soon I will have an outie!! HAHA! I do apologize for the gross picture though!

Week 20

2009-02-28T12:02:00.006-05:00

Here are the pictures from Week 20! Halfway there! (Sorry for the faces, I didn't realize my face was in the pictures!)

19 Weeks/Valentine's Day

2009-02-28T11:42:00.006-05:00

Here are the pictures of my belly from week 19!

This is after our Valentine's Dinner Date

A little blurry but a cute picture.

You can really see my belly in this one!

Daddy loving on his Caitlyn!

Week 18/Gender Reveal

2009-02-28T11:15:00.006-05:00

The day we found out it was a girl, we made our parents wait until dinner time to find out. Everyone wore their team colors (pink or blue) and some were quite unhappy for having to wait all day. It was a fun dinner and everyone was happy once we spilled the beans.

Leslie (team pink) and Daniel (team blue)

We didn't want to give the secret away!

Pop (team blue) and Nana (team purple?)

(She wasn't very happy with us at this point!)

Grandmama (team blue)

Colby (team pink AND blue, so she would be right either way!)

Gramps (or whatever his name is going to be...) (team bluish...I think!)

Grannyminimeemaw aka Meme (team blue)

Team Pink WINS! (see pink roses!)

All the grandma's had gifts prepared (boy and girl!! haha)

So sweet! Gramps, Meme, and Aunt Coco gave Caitlyn a soft pink blanket (with an animal attached) and a sweet pink bib.

Nana and Pop gave Caitlyn this sweet pink dress and bonnet.

Grandmama gave Caitlyn the cutest cherry outfit!

Forgot to take pictures of my belly this week!! SORRY!

17 Weeks

2009-02-28T11:10:00.003-05:00

5 weeks late, but here they are!

Arching my back a little in this one, but oh well!

It's a .......

2009-02-03T22:10:00.004-05:00

GIRL!!!!!

We are so excited to meet sweet little Catherine Lynda (Caitlyn) Crawford in July! Here are a few of our ultrasound pics!

Sweet little face

It's a girl!

Girl Parts

Waving at mommy and daddy

Caitlyn (side profile)

Week 16

2009-01-22T21:01:00.004-05:00

Week 15

2009-01-22T20:58:00.003-05:00

Sorry they are so late!

Sorry!

2009-01-16T14:46:00.002-05:00

Ok! So I'm a terrible blogger! BUT, I have taken a picture for last week and I will post it soon. I'm still using the Crawford's camera because we can't find our battery charger or cord for that matter. I'm sure I will have some more to blog about after this weekend. We are going to Columbus for Mallie's birthday party! I'm sure it will be a fun time! I promise to post that picture soon!

We're Back!

2009-01-04T20:15:00.003-05:00

I bet you thought I forgot about posting! Don't worry! Now that we are somewhat settled in at the Crawford's in Birmingham, hopefully I will be able to post more. We went up to Charlotte on Jan. 1 to put the final touches on our house. We left today with a sign in the yard and not a single thing left to do! It was a little sad, but hopefully it will sell fast! I have lots of pictures to share, but two problems! My camera battery is dead and the charger is packed away in some unknown place. Also, the cord is lost somewhere in the boxes as well. BUT, today Nana (Daniel's mom) took some belly pictures with her new camera! So here are 3 pictures of my belly at week 14! ENJOY!

More news!

2008-11-25T16:13:00.008-05:00

Sorry it has been so long since I updated. I haven't been feeling great the last few weeks, but today I feel GREAT so I thought I would write. Because I haven't been feeling well, we haven't taken any pictures! I know I said I would, but oh well. We will take some on Thanksgiving and post them I promise! We have a NEW due date: July 5, 2009. Its about 6 days later than we originally thought. I was a little bummed at first when the doctor said I wasn't as far along, but its only a week. I did feel like we were at 7 weeks forever! Now we are 8 1/2 weeks and I have been suffering terrible morning sickness, except not in the morning, ALL DAY!! I even stayed home sick from school one day last week because it was so bad. Today I have felt great, so hopefully (crossing my fingers) the worst of it is over. I hope it at least lasts through tomorrow since I have to drive 7 hours.

Now, on to the "more news" I was talking about. We are moving to.....ALABAMA!!!!!!!!!!!! Daniel accepted a position with a company called Hancock Forest Management. The job is actually in Harpersville, AL, but we will probably live somewhere closer to Birmingham, like Chelsea or Inverness. Daniel actually starts Dec. 1 and his last day with Sewall is tomorrow, Nov. 26. We are trying to get all of Daniel's clothes and stuff packed tonight! Tomorrow we will drive two cars to Birmingham and Daniel will move into his mom and dads house. He is also taking the animals with him, so that I can get the house ready to sell. His wonderful Granny and Pa have offered to keep Missy (the cat) for a while, and Charlotte (the dog) will stay with Daniel at the Crawford's house. I will come back to Charlotte after Thanksgiving break and finish teaching through the end of December. I haven't told my students or parents yet, and am dreading that! This is the part that makes it a little bittersweet. I will join Daniel at the Crawford's house Dec. 2o (or close to that date). Hopefully our house will sell fast (crossing my fingers and praying for a miracle!), and we can find something in Birmingham. We are SO excited to be moving home to the grandparents!!

Have a Happy Thanksgiving Week!

Belly Pics 11-6-08

2008-11-11T17:00:00.002-05:00

Sorry Amy! I did say I would post them. I decided I would do very Thursday since thats the day I started...once a week. There isn't any change...and I am arching my back some, but its the best I have.

Fire!

2008-11-09T18:14:00.003-05:00

This evening, we were watching National Treasure on TV and kept hearing fire trucks drive like right past our house. After the 3rd or 4th one, we decided to go outside and check it out. As we walked out our back door, we saw a house engulfed in flames. Here are a few pictures:

As far as we know, no one was in the house. So that is good news!

Halloween

2008-11-04T18:50:00.004-05:00

Every year on Halloween, I invite my students to come trick-or-treating at my house. It is something that my mentor, Jan Roberts, told me she did my first year. I thought it was a great idea and have done it every year as well. The kids love it! They think it's so special to see where Mrs. Crawford lives and they get to meet Mr. Crawford. This year it was special because they got to meet Charlotte the dog. I write stories about her all the time when teaching writing lessons. This year I was smart and took pictures with all of them. Out of 21 students, 11 came. I am missing a picture of the first visitor, but hopefully her mom will send it to me soon! Enjoy these pictures of my cute students (some of who I couldn't even recognize!)

Baby Crawford

2008-11-04T18:32:00.004-05:00

Daniel and I are so excited to announce that we are expecting "Baby Crawford" June 30, 2009. The other exciting news in the Crawford family is that Courtney and Scott are also expecting in June 2009. It looks like we will be doing things together again. Daniel and I are really excited to be able to share this special time with Scott and Courtney and look forward to the cousins growing up together! It's also nice to have someone to talk to that is going through the same things. We had a doctor's appointment last week and he told us that we were 5 weeks 4 days, so that puts us at 6 weeks 2 days today. We were so excited that we just couldn't keep it a secret! We will need plenty of prayers and support in the next 8 months and then for the next 18 years (at least!!) Our next appointment is next week, November 12 where we will have our first ultrasound and blood test, ect. I am feeling fine so far, just REALLY tired (and hungry)! We will take a new picture every Sunday as well as on each day of a doctor's visit. Here is the first of many pictures of my belly...even though there's nothing to see yet!

Funny story (or not so funny) about these pictures. My oh so wonderful hubby took these pictures and he says to me "Quit poking out your belly!" Thanks a lot honey...I might be pretty skinny, but I DO have some fat and of course my husband just HAS to point it out!

BIG News!!!

2008-10-31T19:21:00.004-04:00

We're expecting!

At Home Teacher Work Day!!!

2008-09-29T20:10:00.002-04:00

Well, it's a once in a lifetime day tomorrow! An at home teacher work day! Because of the gas shortage mentioned in my last post, CMS has decided that tomorrow's teacher work day will be a work from home day. We are suppose to use our time at home tomorrow for work and to find gas while everyone else is at work. Well, I don't have to get gas because my wonderful husband found some gas and filled up my car. He had to go to South Carolina to get it, but it was only about a 20 minute drive. He went and waited in line for just a few minutes and filled up my car and then came home, switched to his truck and went back to fill it up. I intend to enjoy my "workday" tomorrow! I will go into school for a little while, but mostly I will enjoy my paid day off! HAHA! I probably shouldn't refer to it as that. I will do work, but I bet a lot of teachers and staff won't. I hope you enjoy your Tuesday as much as I intend to enjoy mine!

-Leslie

Football and Gas...

2008-09-28T14:17:00.005-04:00

Well, I'm sorry I haven't posted anything in a while. We have been busy with work and other things, but nothing too exciting has happened, so I had nothing to write about. We did go to the Auburn vs. LSU game last weekend. We enjoyed seeing my family (Mom, Jamie, Whitney (Jamie's girlfriend), Uncle Henry, Aunt Leigh Anne, Abby, and Sarah), Daniel's family (everyone!!!), and a few old friends. Lane rode to Auburn with us and we enjoyed spending time with her. On the way we saw a motorcycle run into the back of a stopped car...not too pretty....I have to call 911, that was a new experience, but it looked like everyone was okay. It was a good game...even though we lost. We did better than I could have ever expected, so I can't complain. Now, after this weekend, with Alabama at #2, LSU at #3, Georgia at #11, Florida at #12, Auburn at #13, and Vanderbilt at #19, the SEC looks pretty good. It just stinks that we have to keep knocking each other around! Hopefully we will work out these kinks in our offense and beat a couple of those teams I mentioned before.

Anyway, on to what this post was really suppose to be about. GAS... Mom and Dad (Crawford) were suppose to come visit us this weekend, but on Wednesday we had to cancel because there is NO gas anywhere in Charlotte. They were afraid they would get stuck here longer than just the weekend. Daniel and I were trying not to panic like it seems the whole city is doing and felt fine with our 1/2 tanks of gas (each). Well, after driving back and forth to school all week and then going to church this morning, my car is almost down to a 1/4 of a tank and Daniel's not far behind. So Daniel decided to get on the phone and call gas stations rather than driving around to find one (and using gas). Well, just a few minutes ago, he called a station in South Carolina down 77, and they said they have 16000 gallons!! He is headed to the station now! Hopefully at least one of us will have gas now...I guess we could carpool to work with each other. Who knows??

WAR EAGLE!

Leslie

Visiting Friends and Family!

2008-09-03T19:25:00.006-04:00

Over Labor Day weekend, Daniel and I were able to go to Auburn and Georgia. We spent time with my family in Auburn and met Jamie's girlfriend,

Whitney (so cute and sweet!)!! We got to see some old friends before the game and a few more during the game. And of course we won! WAR EAGLE! We stayed with Scott and Courtney at their beautiful house in LaGrange. On Sunday, we went to Columbus and spent some time with my grandmother and then went to dinner at

Amy and Will's wonderful house! Amy made a wonderful dinner and it was so nice to spend time with them and the kids since we don't get to

see them very often. Charlotte (the dog) made the trip with us and she had a fun time playing with Rudy all weekend. All in all, it was a great weekend!

Here are some pictures of the weekend:

Classroom Pictures

2008-09-03T19:21:00.005-04:00

I promised pictures of my classroom so here they are! And a bonus pic of my sweet class!!

I survived!

2008-08-25T17:55:00.004-04:00

I am so glad that I made it through the first day of school alive! It was a long, exhausting day, but all of my students ate lunch and made it home! (I think...) I had great intentions of taking lots of pictures so I could post them, but there was too much going on and I never had a chance to even go near my camera.

The day started out with all 21 of my students coming in (many with parents attached) unpacking supplies and drawing a picture of themselves and writing their name. It was so quiet in my room, I was sure there weren't any kids in there!! I couldn't believe how lucky I was to get such a great, hardworking, quiet class. Well, Haha! Later I found out they were just being shy! Then we went to a flag ceremony, where we talked about the flags and what they were for. After the flag ceremony we attempted to tour the school...but of course as Mrs. Crawford (me) is new to the school, I don't know where everything is....but we did okay. The worst part of the school tour was when we went into the lunchroom to practice lunching and I didn't know what to do. I even told them the wrong tables to sit at. Oh well... After botching the school tour, we had another assembly to go to. This one was about, well, I'm not really sure... You see, the most important thing about the first day of school is getting the kids home the right way. I have had two failed experiences with that and so I was very nervous. I had a boy who I didn't know how he got home, so I left the assembly to call his mother. When I finally got her on the phone, she couldn't understand what I was saying and just said "yes" to everything. Needless to say I was getting very worried about getting this boy home from school. When I got back to the assembly, I realized that he had been wearing a yellow bus tag all along!! Dummy me! Oh well, better to worry for nothing, than to not worry and be wrong. After the assembly, we went outside, ate lunch and had a bathroom break. (We made it through lunch okay and managed to find the correct tables to sit at.) We went over the rules, behavior plan, jobs, etc. and played a name game with some jelly beans! Then we did a short lesson for reading (yes, on the first day). After that we talked about how to pack up and made sure I knew how everyone was getting home.

Then the chaos started!

I didn't know what all the bells meant so I didn't know when to leave and then we realized it was raining... Now this wouldn't be a problem except for my classroom is outside in a trailer. So I got my umbrella and we went down the hall to the gym, where we were to meet for the buses. The buses weren't there and it was raining and then some came and it rained harder. It was not a happy time. I think my shoes and pants are possibly ruined, but oh well!

BUT.... my kids are cute and sweet and the parents are great (so far!) So all in all, it wasn't a bad day, just a long, crazy one. I think its going to be a good year for everyone! I promise to post pictures of my classroom and students soon, when I have time to use my camera!

Timber!!!!!

2008-08-14T19:49:00.004-04:00

Today Daniel got home from his trip earlier than expected, so he decided to do a little yard work. He started by trimming a few of the bushes and cutting down the trunk of a dead tree (very small dogwood). Then as he surveyed his work, he decided he didn't like a bush/tree that is in front of our house. He called me out to look at the tree to see if he could cut it down. I think it is ugly overgrown so I didn't really have a problem with him cutting it down. The only problem is that in order to change anything (and I mean anything) about the outside of our house, we have to get it approved by the HOA's architectural committee. We have actually talked about cutting this tree down many times before, once with our neighbor who happens to be on the HOA board. She said before we could do it we had to submit an application to be approved. Well, Daniel decided that he didn't want to wait to cut it down, so now its gone (without being approved!). We will have to see what happens with the HOA, but it looks a TON better without it. Here are some before and after pictures.

Before....

After...

End of Summer...

2008-08-12T22:59:00.000-04:00

Somehow, my summer is quickly ending. It has been a great summer and I am ready to get back to school, but I feel like it has snuck up on me. We have had a great summer! The Crawford family came to Charlotte,we went on a 7 day Alaskan cruise with the Myer family, Colby came to Charlotte for a week long visit, we went to Gatlinburg with the Armstrong family, visited Birmingham of course, and celebrated our 1 year wedding anniversary! I will post pictures in a different post.

I am teaching at a new school this year: Elizabeth Lane Elementary. I have heard many great things about this school and am looking forward to a great year. I am also hoping to stay there for longer than just one year. I will still be teaching first grade but in a mobile classroom. It is very small but I know it will be fine! I will post pictures of my classroom soon. I went to lunch with my new 1st grade team today and really enjoyed meeting them. They seem like wonderful ladies and I can't wait to get to know them! School starts for me on Aug. 18, but the kids don't come until Aug. 25. I know this seems late, but we didn't get out of school until June 10th!

Daniel flew to Alabama this morning for work. He is enjoying working for Sewall and continues to make a name for himself in the forestry world every day!

Charlotte (the dog) and Missy (the cat) are doing great. They get along pretty well most of the time, but Charlotte sometimes gets a little overexcited (surprise, surprise)!

Gatlinburg

2008-08-12T22:57:00.000-04:00

We went to Gatlinburg with the Armstrong family at the end of July. We stayed at a wonderful cabin. It had a pool table, a foozball table, an airhockey table, a hot tub, and plasma TV's in every room. It had two humungous porches, one on the top floor, one on the bottom. We had a beautiful view too! Daniel and I didn't get to stay the whole time, but while we were there, we watched Aunt LeighAnne and Abby zorb (roll down a hill in a giant ball) and we played putt putt golf. Here are a few pictures from our trip.

Colby's visit!

2008-08-12T22:12:00.004-04:00

Colby came to stay with us in July for a whole week. We did a ton of fun stuff while she was here. Unfortunately we didn't take very many pictures, but here is one of her playing Guitar Hero on the Wii.

Crawford's come to Charlotte

2008-08-12T22:08:00.008-04:00

In June, the entire Crawford clan came to Charlotte for a weekend visit. Mom, Dad, Amy, Will, Nolan, Mallory, Scott and Courtney. We had a very full house but a great time! They even brought us Missy! Here are a few pictures. (Yes, we went swimming in a fountain!) To see more, go to our photo gallery site: http://gallery.mac.com/lesliedaniel

Alaska Pictures

2008-08-12T20:39:00.007-04:00

Here are some pictures from our Alaska trip! To see more pictures go to http://gallary.mac.com/lesliedaniel

Welcome!

2008-08-12T19:24:00.006-04:00

We have decided to start this blog to keep all of our friends and family updated with everything that is going on in our lives. It is a great way to keep in touch with everyone! We will update as often as possible! Check back often and enjoy!

2007-12-20T21:38:00.001-05:00

If you are in a vehicle going the speed of light, what would happen if you turned on your headlights? Think about it...

Glass Half Full/Half Empty

2007-12-18T11:59:00.000-05:00

Have you ever heard the saying..."The glass is half full/empty"? I have. But sometimes I am determined that the glass is twice as big as it should be to begin with. THINK ABOUT IT...