Relative Normalcy

a note to my oldest dude

2011-09-13T23:34:00.000-05:00

chandler-

tonight we had one of the most precious talks we have ever had. not really because of what it was about (a girl) but because of how we talked. you were so open and transparent with me. showing so much wisdom. we talked about integrity, honor, wisdom, discernment, graciousness, God's plan to prosper and not to harm, not understanding why GOd may close a door to something in order to open one to something better, about seeing God's hand of protection...and SO much of it was YOU talking to me, instead of the other way around.

i have often wondered when i talk (sometimes tirelessly) if you hear anything i say. if you can hear that i am really on your side. if you trust me and my advice. if you know and see that God is truly in control of your life and what happens to you. if, when i am vulnerable with you, and tell you about my mistakes and failures-you really listen and hear my heart's desire is that you do better than i did, that you will make better choices. if ANY of it actually soaks into your head and more importantly you heart.

tonight, i know that even if just a little bit, you do.

i am so grateful that God has seen it fit to bless me with you. not just to be your "mom" but to be a trusted confidant. i so don't deserve it. He is SO good. He is good to hear my prayers as i pray so fervently for you. He is good to answer my prayers, not always with a "yes", but sometimes a "no", and sometimes a "not yet." He is good to know what is best for me and for you, even when i don't. He is good to give me just a little peek into your heart and to let me know that i am not completely spinning my wheels and that there are days, that i do in fact get it right. oh i am so grateful for those days.

you are 15. i know that everyday, not even every week, or every month we will not be on the same page. you will roll your eyes at me, rebel, argue, bicker, whine and fuss. but today, i am resting in knowing that you love me, you trust me, you hear me, and you know God is at work. it will be days like today, that will get us through the mess of the other days when we are "off"

i am proud of you. you are a joy. you are a gift. you are one of my greatest delights. and i am SO proud to be your mom.

i love you peanut.

he's HEEEEEEEEEERE!!!!!!!

2011-09-04T10:37:00.000-05:00

a little short slideshow...nuthin' fancy :)

maverick was born on may 12, 2010....14 years to the day that his big brother was born....
it is a very special day for this momma. my first and my last baby born on the same day. that doesn't happen very often. we had been so worried that our new little man would come on a day that might keep me from being able to celebrate chandlers birthday and also have me laid up in the hospital while he has his 8th grade graduation from middle school. the thought of that was just so hard for me to be ok with. of course, God had it under control
(i have found that he usually does, if we would just stop and allow it). on the morning of the 12th we went to the amazing Dr Beverly Wood and begged her to let us have this baby today. she said that ONLY if i was dialated and that she felt good about it, she would consider it. i crossed my fingers and willed my "girls parts" to do what they were supposed to do...actually i may have threatened them, that's beside the point. DR checked and indeed my pep talk worked--- DR "wanna meet back at 1 to have this baby?" ---me, "is the pope catholic?!?! let's do this!"

we got in the elevator, squealed, and began calling all of our people to let them know what was fixing to happen. since it was ALSO chandlers bday, we had promised to come eat with him at school and bring his favorite lunch....instead we got him out of class for the day, took him to out to eat for birthday lunch (at chili's of course) and straight back to the hospital.

having a baby by c-section is a WHOLE differnt game. it's very calm and easy. no huge dramas. the family is all there in the room when we wheeled out in our gowns and hats. and wait there until we come back with our new bundle of love.

as soon as they wheel me into the delivery room (alone, they call for randy later) i am freezing. it is so cold you can hardly stand it. between that and my nerves, i laid there shaking like leaves on a tree...almost uncontrolable (which was embarassing). getting an epidural while shaking like your in an earthquke is no fun. but they did it, cause they were great and amazing...then that darn sheet goes up. i know it is to protect me from something that would be sure to scar me for life, but i am dying to know what's going on down there. finally randy is in and at my side. tells me that he loves me and that he's proud of me. and then he does what only any good "Cheeks" man does-small talk and chatter with the staff. sheesh. this makes me crazy. DON'T DISTRACRT THE PROFESSIONALS THAT HAVE YOUR WIFE CUT OPEN IN HALF!!!!! it will make your wife feel better if everyone is paying attention to their job. (just a little advice to those who may need it) and then just like that after a little pulling, and stretching, and discomfort, and wierdness, your baby's face appears over that white sheet like magic and everything changes right that second. i have another new baby, and my heart just filled with so much love and joy, i worry that it may explode and they will have to admit me a as a cardiac patient. bliss.

randy takes my new tiny man down the hall and to our room where his already adoring fans wait for his debut, i stay in that cold room and thank the drs, nurses, and God for making this go well and taking the best care of me they could. and then i close my eyes and take it all in....i thank God for my new little guy, for the big brother and sister, i pray for my marriage and that we can be strong for our children and teach them to honor Him. i praise HIM for his grace and mercies that pour over me. thank him for another chance at the life that i had always dreamed of.

then i make the ride back to my room and i just lay there in my bed and watch. i watch how randy shows him off to all of our guests, how chandler BEAMS when he sees and holds his birthday buddy, sterling fascintated by his tiny nose, how he is introduced to his fantastic grandparents, how the nurses and technicians come in and out, new people are arriving , i listen to the ooooh's and ahhhhh's and laughter---it's music that reaches down to the very depths of my soul. these are the moments that i will never forget the rest of my life. sitting and watching those that i love experience and rejoice over the birth of my new baby. my cup runneth over.

2011-09-03T23:54:00.000-05:00

cheeks, party of 5

these were our first "family" pictures with all 5 of us. they were so fun.

this session, i finally took my own advice...

as a photographer, i always tell people to NOT stress out about what they wear,

the location, or to over think it. when our sweet photographer, Karyn Kelbaugh,

showed up to our front door. i was LITERALLY in my pajamas still, the babies asleep

in their beds (with not a clue as to what we were wearing),

and i had NO idea where we would go to do the shoot.

clearly, i had taken the "don't over think it to a new level"

we threw on some clothes (whatever they wanted to wear-nothing "matched")

and headed to our back yard that was full of dead grass, branches, and nothing pretty-

when were done there, we headed up the street to a train track, unsure of what would be there.

this was the most relaxed, un-stressful, and fun family shoot ever.

no tears, no crying, no fighting, no eye rolling...nothing.

and the result-was a set of images that beautifully reflect each member of my

family and each of their precious personalities.

i love them. they will forever be treasured.

when i look at these pictures, i am overwhelmed by how much i love the people in them.

that THIS is actually MY family...and i can't believe that they are mine.

i can't believe that God for some reason, saw it fit to let me have them.

this is maverick kirby------

he is 6 months old. he is happy. he loves to suck his left thumb, loves it.

his eyes are the most beautiful blue i have ever stared into.

i want to soak him up with a biscuit and gobble him up.

he is was a precious and treasured surprise 5th member of our family.

sterling maye-------

she is 2, and all that comes with it. she is a MESS that you can't help but love.

she is silly, but at times super shy and clingy (which i kinda love).

she has personality beyond her years. she is ornery. she is beautiful.

she calls her brothers "bubba" (chandler) and "buddy" (maverick) and

is quick to correct you if you interchange their "names."

and she thinks they are both fabulous.

chandler garrett------

he is 14 and a freshman in high school (i have no idea when this happened)

he is smart. he is funny. i enjoy just hanging out with him and listening to

his opinions of the world around him. he's super talented and creative.

he thinks his parents are embarrassing, but secretly he thinks we are hysterically funny...

at least that's what i tell myself. i totally have a crush on him and think he's fabulous!

randy & tomi-----

he's my hero. i am a crazy nut case. he's smart and a hard worker.

i am a photographer and mom and a wife.

he loves his job (regional director of operations for a really great long term care company).

he loves to hunt. i love road trips with just he and i. we make each other laugh.

i love how they play together. it sends me to the moon to watch them and makes me super happy!

she wears these wings every where. and i can barely stand the cuteness.

someday we are gonna be best friends....after she's a teenager. :)

oooh. these 3. precious.

my boys. they share a birthday-14 years apart.

the first and the last boys i will ever fall in love with.

randy is such a great dad. he is crazy about these kids and about me.

and that is one of the BEST feelings in the whole world!

2010-08-23T10:20:00.002-05:00

First Day of High School!

(this is the first day of kindergarten)

(this was today- 9th grade!)

how did we get here so fast? high school. wow.

i, like so many other mom's do on this day every year, think back on all of our other "first day's" of school... today was my 10th. and i am overwhelmed by the thought that i only have 3 more after today. just 3 more times to drive up to school, tell him to be GREAT, like God made him to be, try my best to get a hug and a kiss with out embarrassing him too much, tell him i can't wait to see him in a few hours and hear ALL about the day, and send him off into school. just 3 more times. (can you see me wiping away tears and sniffle)

i remember when i first took him to kindergarten- i was a mess. i was so excited for him. i couldn't wait to hear all about his new friends and the play ground, and lunch time. i was thrilled at the thought of "home work", so that i could see all that he was learning (clearly, i am WAY over being excited about homework) i was scared. scared that i would be missing out on something while he was away from me, in someone else's care (thank you mrs. le roy for loving him). and i could only imagine all the things that waited for him inside that school, all the things he would learn, friends he would make, and new opportunities for his future.

(look how little he is...i LOVE this of him walking in to W A Porter elementary for the first time!)

and today, i don't feel much differently. just a bigger kid, a smaller backpack, and a bigger school.

i wept again today, like i do every year (literally) as soon as i drove away. wept. i am certain that will happen the next 3 years too. i have dreamed about him being in high school and all the fun things that he will get to be a part of. homecoming, driving, football games, dances, pep rallies- so so many fun things!

so today, i am praying for God to shine favor on him as he starts this new part of his life. i pray for sweet friends, teachers to care for him, a heart that is kind to others, and a mind that is open to learning all that he can. again...not unlike i did the first day of kindergarten.

(really, was he not the CUTEST thing you have ever laid eyes on?)

here are a few more pictures from this morning. he is not nearly as patient or happy to pose for me anymore. but he endured for me.

have a great year my boy! i love you to bits!!!!

2010-08-22T22:59:00.002-05:00

i am baaaaaaack!

it has only been like 12 months or so. that's all. (read with great sarcasm)

the last year has been full. full of lots of things, life changing events, growth, new life, struggles, great joys, devastating heart breaks, glorious answered prayers, tears, a little arguing, lot's of laughing ( 'cause if you don't, you might cry), mountain top highs, and way down in the valley lows. do you want the good news or the bad news first?

let's go with the good- we made it through. we made it. and i might venture to say that we are stronger than before. (i am at least, but so i don't feel so lonely and vulnerable in the blogging world, i will continue to use the words "we, our, and us" eventually i will have to do this on "my own" but for now, i will remain "plural inclusive)....and yes that's a word (at least in my world it is)...i pinkie swear.

we successfully got our biggest through the 8th grade and now he is prepping to start high school. we found out we were having another baby (*SURPRISE!!!!!*****) just before sterling's 1st birthday. then discovered it was another boy! we were thrilled! i also had a really hard pregnancy and it nearly did me in- i was WORE out! the stress of the baby was a whole nutha story. he finally came on may 12th---exactly 14 years after i had his big brother. the timing was perfect and a huge answer to prayer. so many many other details to share in posts to come.

the biggest bad news of the last year (and i am going to be REALLY vulnerable here) is this.....i was COMPLETELY checked out. completely. since that last "Sterling is 9 months post", i haven't written down ONE thing...no journaling no nothing. the truth is, when i found out i was pregnant, i was real real sad. (that is so hard to write) not sad about the baby necessarily, but just sad about how it would change my life. i was so getting used to the peeps that i had and the way our lives were going along just fine. i really and truly went into some weird depression- i think that it kinda freaked my husband out. there were days and days that i wore the same thing, never left the house, cried constantly, and just checked out of life in general. i have NO pictures of the last year (mind you, i am a professional photographer). i have MAYBE a very small handful but really nothing like i should. it's shameful. when there are people out there with real terminal illnesses, and they just want one or two more days with the ones they love. i am moping around, complaining, and whining, and WASTING away the precious gift of time that my sweet loving Jesus gave me. wasting it. shameful.

so, now, on the eve of the biggest brother starting high school, the 21 month old sister getting ready for mother's day out, and the littlest brother cooing and giggling in my lap. i have decided, i don't want to miss it. i don't want to miss another year with my kids or with my amazing husband. i want to be fully here and in the moment and wrap myself up in them and feel how much they love ME - just because of who God made me to be and that's what they love about me. Warts and all- i don't really have warts, but you get the picture.

i am going to spend the next few months "journaling" about last year and trying to fill in the holes that i left out. some posts may be full of joy and happy thoughts, some might be me recalling the bad days, some may be pure nonsense and silliness, and there will for sure be some about all the fabulous things that God will be doing in our family this year. and for a laugh, i can almost guarantee that more than one or two posts will be composed while on "ambien" and those will be pure ridiculousness. i am certain that if you follow this blog for very long, you will hear somethings that my shock you and blow your mind, you may think "hey, i don't like this girl all that much anymore" but please stick with me on those days, i hope to show how God pulled me through and growed me up a little (yes, that also is a real word). He is changing my heart even now as i type. and more......now.

so, if you pick to read this, thank you. your encouragement and honesty will be a huge gift to my journey in becoming the girl, wife, mom, daughter, friend, aunt, neighbor, sister-in-law, yada yada yada that HE wants me to be. i need your accountability and maybe even a gentle kick in the butt. if you don't pick to keep up with it....i totally understand. just know that i am trying, and i am trusting that God has a plan for me.

so......check back soon. this may be my new daily obsession. and if you spread the word and sign up to follow, and make comments, we just might be able to reach a mom that is where i was and help encourage her a little too. after all, isn't that what God calls us to do. help those who are hurting?

until next time.............

from my gypsy heart to yours!

ps a few words that GOD has on my heart to ponder today.

*ephisians 3:16 i pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources, he will empower me with his inner strength through his Spirit

*philippians 4:7 then i will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything i can understand. His peace will guard my heart and mind as i live in Christ Jesus.

*1 thessalonians 5:13 so encourage each other and build each other up.....

*psalms 139:16b every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.

2009-09-21T11:14:00.004-05:00

Sterling @ 9 months old!

This baby is something else! She is the busiest little thing-into EVERYTHING!!! We have had to move things, child proof, block off doors. I never had to do that with her brother. It is a whole new world around here. She is also the happiest of babies-smiling and giggling all the time. She thinks her brother is the greatest thing ever! She is crawling fast and furious, and has zero fear.

She has this past month, out grown more than just her clothes! We have had to put away her bouncy seat, her car seat, the bath tub, and the swing. We took pictures of her in them just so we could compare to when she was first in them all and it is crazy how much bigger she is now. She thought getting in each of these was great fun-she hadn't been in them in a while so they seemed like "new" toys to her. She was sad when we took her out and threw a minor fit, then she was off crawling to get into something else!

2009-09-20T22:45:00.004-05:00

First Day of 8th Grade

I know that I start so many posts with this question in some form, "Where has the time gone?" but I truly ask myself that nearly everyday. Chandler just started the 8th grade-his last year of Middle School. Only one year left till High School. 4 and half till college. Where has the time gone?

He is LOVING school. He started playing football, is in all pre-AP classes, and is in select art, he also is playing soccer outside of school. He is a busy little bee. He is a typical 13 year old kid, but funny, kind, and he is in love for the first time (however, it is with his baby sister- more on that later:)

I just wanted to share his "First Day Look" (it looks thrown together, but trust me- LOTS of thought went into this). We are so proud of the kid that he is and know that we are really lucky that he is ours!

2009-09-20T22:25:00.002-05:00

Family Photo Fun!

It NEVER fails. We can be together for 10 days, but the last night at the very last moment possible, we panic because we don't have a "family picture" This usually results with

all the guys complaining and LOTS of crying from the kids. Oh if you could just be a fly on the wall when we are trying to take this pictures. It is quite hilarious.

In the end, we always get something fairly good with our ever growing family

(21 and still counting). We are so so blessed.

All the Grandkids with Maw Maw and Paw Paw-

from the left: Ella (3) Julia (1.5) Caden (4) the twins, Emmory and Amelia (4 weeks)

Brandon (6) Chandler(13) Ainsley (1.5) and our sweet Sterling (8 months)

Just the girls- only 4 out of the 6 are crying-no too bad.

cracks me up

2009-09-20T22:02:00.002-05:00

Chandler wants to live with Melinda & Travis.

My sister and brother in law bought a house this past spring. IT IS FANTASTIC!

The best part is the property. It's gorgeous!!! This is their front yard

(view from the front porch). Isn't it great? You can't even see the road- it is country livin'

with out being out in the boon docks! Chandler ran and rode four wheelers, shot

fire works, climbed trees, explored, played with the dog...every night he was filthy dirty and

completely exhausted from playing so dang hard. The other reason that he would love to move in with Travis and Melinda (besides that they are so fun and all the kids favorite aunt and uncle despite my trying to beat them) Travis is a vet and they got to borrow a horse for a few days.

Chandler love love loved it!

He's a natural.

2009-09-20T21:40:00.003-05:00

Family Day on the lake!

We rented a "party barge" one day while we were in TN. We were on the lake literally all day! We had a great time and the kids thought it was so fun. We cooked out, rode tubes and jet ski's, then we found this teenie little island right in the middle of the lake. It was so cool. Everyone hopped out of the boat and swam for a bit, laid out, some of us even fit in a quick nap. Our family is so fun! I love being a part of it!

"Our" island

Sterling in her float- she loved it, can you tell?

Paw Paw let Chandler drive the boat. He did great!

My guys- love them!

Ok, not super attractive, but Chandler loves these kinds of pics!

2009-09-06T19:00:00.003-05:00

Ryman, Tootsies, & Hatch

One of my favorite days in Nashville, was the day we walked around downtown. It is such a cool town, lots of historic old places, cool people, and TONS of music. What could be better?

We started out at the Ryman Auditorium. I really am embarrassed to say that I had no idea what this place was. It is the original "Grand ole Opry" and it is SO great! The history that is in that place (especially if you are into music) oozes out of the walls and it is really beautiful. It is where Johnny met June and you can almost here Minnie Pearl holler, " HOW-DEEE!!!!!" It just makes me smile to even think about it. They still do concerts there with people from the Jonas Brothers to Willie Nelson. I am really hoping that we can go back to concert this fall.

Next stop, was "Tootsies" I had heard of it before, but didn't realize what a cool place it was. It's a teenie tiny little bar, that is just across the alley from the Ryman. Tons of artist have

snuck out of the back door of the Ryman and into "Tootsie's" for a little fun. It is also where loads of musicians have started out on the 12 x 12 foot stage. I know those walls could tell some really great stories! Tanya Tucker was actually there in the upper room, we just missed her (she scooted out the back door before we saw her).

The last place we went was "Hatch Show Print" It is one of and probably the most famous press printers in the country. They have done show posters for the "Ryman" for years. They still use the wooden blocks that they lay out in a tray and crank it through the machine. ( i know it is much more complicated, but you will have to just trust me) It is a really cool art form. I would love love love to have one of their prints someday!

This was so fun! I am fascinated with all three places and how they are all in a way a part of each other and also such a big part of some of the music that I love! If your ever in Nashville, you should check it out!

The Outside of the Ryman.

This is what the musicians see just before going out on stage.

Johnny and June, Minnie Pearl, Dolly Parton, Hank Williams....so cool!

Us back stage.

Garrett and I in Tootsie's

Yes, have taken our 13 year old and our 7 month old baby to a bar.

'cause we are good parents! :)

This is the upper room. See all the hand writing on the walls?

And in the picture, that is Tootsie herself!

This is inside the printing place. It is so cool. See all the wood "print blocks"?

This is one of the blocks that they were working on- I wonder what it turned out like?

These are some of the posters. They are so retro and cool!

2009-09-06T11:32:00.002-05:00

Loveless Cafe

{Nashville, TN}

When I knew we were going to Nashville, I started asking around for some great restaurants. My friend Kate @ Juxtapose Photography (check out her pics) said that we HAD to go to Loveless Cafe. So, I obediently looked it up and dragged our whole clan there for lunch! I was worried that it wouldn't hold up to the greatness that i heard that it was. Let me just say, it SO totally did!!!! AHHH-MAY-ZING!!!

The atmosphere is so fun! There are lots of little shops to look in, the art is really retro and cool, there is lots of history in that little restaurant. And the best part...the FOOD. Good ole, down home, country, fry everything cooking. YUM!!!

Chicken fried steak, fried okra, mash taters, gravy, cobbler, iced tea!

SO GOOD!!!!

If your ever find yourself in Nashville, hop in the car and take a scenic drive to Loveless. You will not be disappointed!

Here we are waiting for our food to get here.

Just out side of the cafe, there are several good photo ops.

I love this- look at Sterlings tiny little face-so cute!

Old antique tractor. We thought we might put the kids to work to pay for our meal.

This is me and the famous Carol Faye, aka the Biscuit Lady.

She and the cafe have been featured on the Food Network.

She is the only one who knows the magic recipe for those dang good bisicuits!

Doesn't she just look like a "biscuit lady"?

2009-08-01T16:52:00.006-05:00

The 4th of July!

we were in Nashville for the 4th too. i LOVE the 4th. i LOVE a cookout. i LOVE fireworks.

we went to church saturday morning, had a cookout to celebrate both the 4th and my sisters in-law birthday. then set out to see some fireworks. it flipping POURED DOWN RAIN. HARD. we still tried to go and see them from the car-which is not near as fun as sitting out in the grass with a picnic, but we made a memory anyway. we scrunched up and mashed our faces up to the windows, but all we saw was lightning. we gave up and went home.

chandler got a pic of randy and i huddled up in the car.

and here they are in the front seat-waiting for the light show.

.....and sterling. she wasn't interested at all! she slept through the whole adventure.

we are so blessed to live in a country where we can worship the God that we love.

we can love who we choose to love.

we can be who and what we want to be.

happy 4th, and thank you to those (and their famillies) who have sacrificed

so much for us to enjoy our freedom!

2009-07-13T11:30:00.004-05:00

Cheeks Family Vacay 2009

Our family vacation took us to Nashville this year. We had a GREAT time. Nashville is where half the 21 of us live and since my sweet sister in-law gave us twins in June we didn't want her to have to travel, so Nashville it was. It was our first time to travel with Sterling, we looked like we were moving to Nashville with all the stuff we carried. It's amazing all the stuff you "think" you will need on vacation. Anyway...both kids did great on the flight. Sterling fell asleep as soon as we took off and woke the second we started to land (she is the best baby). Garrett read and listened to his ipod and ordered a coke and was happy as could be. We met every one for dinner and then got settled in at Melinda & Travis' for the week. Lots of "doin" to be done this week and had to get rested up!

Getting read for a plane ride

Loading up

i know i sound like a broken record but, how cute are they?!?!

Sunday, we loaded everyone up for a short road trip to Bowling Green, Kentucky. There were some underground caves to check out. it was cool. chandler and the other boys thought it was great. we toured the cave in a little flat boat and ALL the kids had to wear life jackets (even though the water was about 2 feet deep. sterling was NOT a fan and neither were the other babies, but she did great (however, she looked hilarious).

this is them in the cave (just before this, we were all practically laying in the floor of the boat, cause the ceiling of the cave was SO low- not for the claustrophobic)

After we made it out, we wandered around in the woods and came across a "Paw Paw" sign that we couldn't pass up. (the "extra" baby is our darling niece ella)

of all the grand kids (9 with one on the way) these are the only boys.

they love to be outside. brandon and caden wear chandler out every visit.

they just want to run and wrestle, and hike, and play.

chandler sleeps really great every night after being with them.

and finally, one last picture from "cave day"

me and my girl. she was so super happy.

right after this, it literally came a monsoon. we were soaked to the bone.

soaked.

then a late lunch at the cracker barrel and on our way

back to melinda's to hang out.

2009-07-12T21:13:00.003-05:00

Happy Father's Day Randy

One of the reasons that I am so in love with Randy, is because he is the Father to my children. He loves them in the most precious way. When he is with them, there is a tenderness to him that is spills out on to Chandler and Sterling. He always says that he is "tough" and "has a reputation to protect" but the heart that he has for them doesn't surprise me, it is really who he is deep down. He smiles at them in the most fabulous way and his eyes light up with so much joy that they belong to him. He is strong, and gentle, and ornery, and loving, a sacrificial provider, a source of aggravation (mostly to Chandler) and laughter. He has opened my eyes to what "devotion" to your children can look like and we are a family that wouldn't be as strong with out him. He thinks his daughter is the most glorious thing that has ever been. He loves Chandler as if he was his very own. He knows that Chandler has his own "real Dad" and honors and respects that, but is more than thrilled to be his Dad in the day to day, and calls him "my boy." This year, several people wished him a "Happy first Father's Day," my sweet husband was quick to say, "This isn't my first Father's Day, it's my 3rd." I think that is reason enough to love him. These are a few of my favorite pictures of this year. They aren't great shots, but they hold precious memories of the love that he has for my children. Thank you Randy for the father that you are. You are a everyday unexpected gift that I NEVER imagined that I would have. I love you so very much!

Being a Dad is dirty work.

His gift for Father's Day. Pictures of the kids playing in mud.

They are so cute and he loved it.

(thank you Major Images)

Our trip to Sea World

This is SO what there relationship is like. They both love each other and

aggravate the fool out of each other. I don't understand it at all,

but it makes for an interesting life.

The first time that he held Sterling in the NICU. He was overjoyed!

This is the day that Chandler shot his first two deer.

I don't think that Randy could have been more proud!

He smiled for days after this.

(and no, that is not an extra kid that we picked up-just a darling little friend)

2009-07-12T20:55:00.002-05:00

Month 7, a month of Firsts!!!

Our girl was 7 months old in June. She changed SO much! The day she turned 7 months, she sat up for the first time (for more than 5 seconds) she is super proud of herself and loves that she can see what we are all up to (she is so nosey-just like her daddy)! That same week, her bottom 2 teeth showed up (and she was a bit of a crab about it). She is eating table food...every time we give her something new to try she grins and looks at us as if to say,"YUM! Yall have been holding out on me!" And there is NOTHING that she hasn't loved (guacamole is her favorite so far!) At a whopping 22 pounds, yes 22, she has out grown her carrier car seat, her bouncy seat, AND her baby bath tub. She is now in a big girl booster, her high chair, and sitting up in the sink for her bath. We went on her first vacation ( a whole 'nuther post about that later), that brought her first plane ride, her first boat ride, her first life jacket (which she hated!), her first tattoo (rub on of course) and her first bar ('cause we are good parents), and her first fire works (she slept through the whole thing)!

She is THE happiest baby (actually, Chandler was the exact same way). We all adore her. And she is IN LOVE with her brother and he is IN LOVE with her. Can't wait to share more of our girl with you!

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

2009-06-23T19:06:00.002-05:00

Anniversary #2

Well, here we are 2 years later! We had a great date night for our Anniversary. My sweet Randy, got a sitter for the kids and reservations at one of my FAVORITE places, Texas de Brazil! I SO love this place! It was so good to just sit and be "Randy & Tomi" We just chatted about all kinds of things, where we wanted to be in the next 5 years, the best and worst part of this year, how our lives have changed, you get the point. I still learn new things about him all of the time. And the longer I am with him, I learn more about myself. He has been the most wonderful blessing! I love his sense of humor, I love that he thinks that I am funny too, I love the dad that he is, I love the commitment that he has to our family, I love how he provides a safe, happy environment for me, I love that he always thinks that I am cute (even when I am clearly not), I love that he calls me "Baby" (before him, I always thought that was so corny), I love his family, I could go on and on. More than anything, I just love that he picked me to marry. I tell him all of the time, "Sugar, you are my favorite husband that I have ever had!" AND...I love that he thinks that is SO funny and just laughs. He loves me unconditionally, the good and the bad. I can't wait to spend the next year with him. I love you Sugar!!!

The night we were married, on our way to the hotel, I was DYING of thirst.

So, in all of our wedding business, we drove through Sonic and

got a Route 44 Coke. SO good!

This night, we decided to go through the same drive through every year,

order the same drink (for old time's sake),

and have the guy at the window take our picture.

I wish we had thought about it on our wedding night and last year.

It's never too late to start a tradition.

So here's to a 3rd year and looking

forward to sharing another Coke with you Randy!

2009-06-23T18:48:00.002-05:00

Soccer

This was the last game of a fairly sad soccer season. Chandler was THRILLED to be back playing with his old team "The Bulls" The kids just had a hard time coming together as a "team" and actually "listening" to the coach. I think that maybe they won one game all season. BUT, let's focus on the good...He loves it. And as this last game rolled around we actually saw our son, who is usually fairly mild mannered, actually get some attitude and aggression. I watched him nearly tackle and take out one kid several times and he almost got a red card and tossed out of the game. I have to say, I kinda loved seeing him get a little mean. :) Hopefully, next year will be a different season, where we actually win. But for this year, we are just happy to see him loving something and enjoying the sport.

This is just before he knocked this kid on his rear. It was really great!

2009-06-23T16:48:00.002-05:00

Mothers Day 2009

Better late than never....we had a super laid back day. We are always so busy and my people are always in several different places, so I just wanted everyone in the same house for the day and working on a "honey-do" list. It was great! Lots of things accomplished, Sterling's room finished, laundry done, floor's cleaned, miscellaneous things fixed= a happy mom. Then Chandler had his last soccer game of the season, so we packed up for that and then on to dinner, at our old stand by- chili's! I guess that I am old, because the less exciting the better. :)

Mother's Day always gives me a whole roller coaster of emotions...I am extremely blessed to have these two precious ones call me mom. They bring me so much JOY. I can barely wrap my brain around how much they have changed me. They have made me more patient, more laid back, more silly, more worried, more fulfilled, more happy, just more everything. I love them to pieces! I also think about the two babies that I have lost. I wonder about what they would be like, look like, and how they would have changed me. Finally, I think about two more. The two who I got to be mom to for just a little while. In my heart, deep down, they are still mine. I still love them so much. I am so thankful for the time that I had them in my house and also so thankful for how they each changed me too.

I am also blessed to have not just one mom of my own, but several. God so graciously orchestrated a team of moms for me. My Mom, my G-mom, my precious mother-in-law (who I adore), and so many other's that took me in and loved me, supported me, gave me a safe place to fall, made me feel at home, taught me how to love unconditionally, showed me great sacrifice, taught me how to love my children, and one who raised a boy who would one day become my husband. Oh how I love them all!

Lastly, thank you to that husband of mine for being on this journey with me. There is no one else that I would rather parent with in the world. Thank you for letting me be a stay at home mom to my kids...you will never know how much I love them and that I get to spend so much time with them. It is such a sweet gift that you give me everyday.

Happy Mother's Day to me!

2009-06-17T17:48:00.003-05:00

Living with a teenager!

Our sweet little man has been fairly interesting to live with lately. I promise you the day he turned 13 something in him snapped and he has been in FINE FORM. He truly is, for the most part, precious. Kind, thoughtful, respectful, funny, a great big brother and all around happy child. He has also always been one to drop a few funny lines on me over the years and he is still catching me off gaurd from time to time and making me laugh so hard that I nearly wet my pants. And, even though I "think" that I will remember all these silly little stories, I know that one day they will slip my mind, so I wanted to write them down for my memories sake. Here are a few of the things that he has said in the past few weeks that have both infuriated us, left at as a loss for words, or made us laugh out loud.

*We were having a simply normal afternoon. He and I were standing across the bar from one another in the kitchen talking about our day and what needed to be done that evening. I simply said, "Hey, when you are done with your snack, could you please switch the laundry over?" He then dropped his snack, threw his arms in the air, and attacked,"WHY DO WE HAVE TO DO LAUNDRY? LAUNDRY IS STUPID. I HATE LAUNDRY. STUPID LAUNDRY. WHY DON'T WE HAVE A ROBAOT TO DO THAT? STUPID LAUNDRY!!!!!" First of all, we don't even say the word "stupid" in our house, but, that was the least of the issues. I calmly said "Ok. Clearly we have laundry because we like to wear clean clothes. If you would like to wear dirty ones, go right ahead, but for now you need to get your happy hiney in there and switch the laundry. And furthermore, we DO have a robot that does the laundry. It is called the 'Washing Machine' Now hush up." I am telling you it was like he was from another planet! He did the laundry and hasn't said another word about helping with the laundry or the robot.

*Randy has TERRIBLE hearing. Chandler is REALLY soft spoken. This is generally cause for arguments around here. Randy is CONSTANTLY saying "What? Speak up son." And usually Chandler says something like "You are deaf." rolls his eyes a little bit and then repeats himself. One afternoon, it went something like this.... Randy- "What did you say?" Chandler- "I said it loud enough for this whole house to hear me and I am NOT repeating myself!" I thought Randy's head was going to spin around. I COULDN'T believe that he said it. It is SO not like him. That boy is testing his parents like crazy. It is funny now, but at the moment-it was NOT pretty!

*And finally.... there is a sweet family that lives across the street from us. They have a young boy and then two teenage daughters (who by the way, are BEAUTIFUL). Little brother thinks that Chandler is great and wants to play with his ALL the time! And Chandler will always say yes and happily goes over to their house and plays. He has NEVER once mentioned the girls (or the tons of super cute friends that are over there all the time too). Well... the other night I was over there too, and on our way back across the street, I said "Dude. Are you telling me that you have NEVER noticed how cute those girls are? I mean, it's fine if you have, I would think it was weird if you hadn't." He looked over his shoulder at me with a HUGE grin and said "Mom, c'mon. I am weak. I AM a man!" HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA!!!! I laughed so hard.

He is really so entertaining. We are blessed every day (even the ones that we want to ring his neck and throw him in the dryer) by him and the young man that he is growing up to be. I am not sure what other "teenage" moments are around the corner, I am positive there will be some doosies, but I am going to treasure each one!

2009-06-16T19:19:00.003-05:00

THE NORRIS FAMILY

This is a special family to us. Really they are like family.

We love them so very much. They are the people that you call

when you need a piece of furniture moved, a quick bite to eat,

your hair fixed (thank you amber), help fixing something around the house

(thanks scott), or someone to run to your side when your family is in crisis.

It was a joy to FINALLY get to

have a session with them!

i LOVE this picture of scott & amber. love it!

this is kaylyn.

she is a MESS. and so darn cute. she defiantly has a mind of her own!

this is big sister mikayleigh.

she is truly one of the most

precious children EVER! and just look at those eyes of hers!

so BEAUTIFUL!!!

this is the "family" picture. it is SO them.

amber looks great. scott is trying to get kaylyn to cooperate.

mikayleigh is rolling her eyes at her sister.

and kaylyn is in her own world and is NOT interested in the "family" picture

thank you norris family!

i love yall so much!

2009-06-08T18:05:00.004-05:00

Sterling and Chandler

These two adore each other! I love watching them. Sterling looks at Chandler in a way that she doesn't look at ANY ONE else. As an only child, it really is fascinating to see the relationship that they have with one another. Precious.

2009-06-08T17:24:00.003-05:00

Sterling is 6 months old!

We can't believe that our girl is 6 months old! We had some family pictures taken again. She WAS NOT HAPPY!!! This sweet little girl is always smiley and happy and Miss Personality...except for on the day of these pictures. She was a CRAB! We finally stuck her in the bath tub (her favorite pass time). Even though she wasn't super happy, I do love that we have these photos of her in the tub. She really does LOVE it and I love all those rolls and I love when her eye lashes are wet and stick together. So cute. Enjoy our little lady bug! (pictures are by Kate Mefford- she is fab)

Make a Smilebox slideshow

2009-06-08T16:27:00.002-05:00

Chandler Garrett is 13!!!!

13.

I can barely wrap my brain around it.

13!

Every year, I am sure like every other mother, I can't believe that my baby is another year older. Another year further from the tiny little baby that scared and thrilled me all at the same time. And another year closer to leaving me to be on his own, in his own world. Also, every year, I have another thought that maybe not all moms have. Every year, with out fail, I sit in amazement, that we are BOTH still alive. Not just alive, but THRIVING, and HAPPY. Since I was such a baby when I had him, I just prayed and prayed that I somehow wouldn't hurt him or lose him, or screw him up beyond repair (I am also amazed at the same for me). I have done my fair share of messing up, no doubt, but with the sheer grace of God, we are here. We are blessed. We are healthy-mentally, physically, and emotionally (relatively speaking).

13.

I am so so proud to be this kids mom. He is funny. He is kind. He has a tender heart. He is smart. He is ornery. He has a great laugh. He is inquisitive. He loves to read. He is creative. He is an amazing big brother. He loves Jesus. He is loyal. He loves his family. He is talented. He is a pure JOY.

This year for his birthday, he chose to not have a "party" with the bounce house and all that mess (first sign of a teenager). He picked to go to a birthday lunch at Los Vaqueros (he loves mexican food) then we wandered the Stockyards, rode the mechanical bull, and went through the human maze (so fun). We also had "family" birthday at our house. He requested mom's famous hamburgers and a peanut-butter cup cake. And of course, no party at our house is complete with out the "Birthday Sombrero"

He's a teenager now. A whole new world is before us. I can't wait to enjoy this part of his life and share it with you!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

2009-06-02T10:45:00.003-05:00

So this is my attempt to "catch up" We have had SO much going on and I will never truly be on top of things, so here are a few quick points and pictures so you can see what we've been up to!

This was Easter morning before church...so so cute!

Our sweet friend Elizabeth got to marry her best friend in April...

no picture of her, but here we are after the wedding. We are SO happy for her...

(Jaclyn Hatcher, Me, Kim Kaercher, Linsey Bellows)

Our girl LOVES a bath! Look at those rolls! So precious!

Sterling @ 5 months!

....and @ 6 months.

She is teething, and this is her LOVING a cold piece of watermelon!

She chewed on this for a long time and was a happy happy girl!

We bought a camper (we are officially trailer trash) In April, we took our very first camping trip to Glen Rose, TX. We had a great time!

This is us at the MOD. We walked 3 miles and raised $2450!!!

We are thrilled with our success and are already looking forward to next year!

In May, we went to Sea World. We camped out and celebrated birthdays with dear friends!

This was Sterlings first time in the pool! She was super happy about it!

Us at a show at Sea World show. So Fun!

There have been some other important events too that I will give their own posts.

So, look for mothers day, Chandler's 13th birthday and Sterling is 6 months old coming soon!

2009-05-19T07:30:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to say that "Yes, we are still alive" We have been crazy, nuts, busy, and I can't seem to get long enough to blog about my darling little family. Randy has brought it to my attention that the "tiny girl" is not at the top of our blog and "he just doesn't like that" So, I guess that now that she's 6 months old I should include her in our blog header like good mommy would. I promise that I will try to get better about updating so that those who actually look at this can see what we are up to. AND....since ALL posts are better with a picture, here is one from our quick trip to Sea World a couple of weeks ago. Have a great day! Blog ya later!

2009-04-18T16:12:00.001-05:00

Quick Post....

We had an Awesome morning at the MOD walk! So many thing to share! Here is a quick look...I will follow up with more later!

ENJOY!!!! (we sure did!)

Make a Smilebox slideshow

2009-04-03T21:26:00.002-05:00

I LOVE MY 12 YEAR OLD!!!!

So, we are in the car tonight. Chandler has NOT STOPPED talking for the last 3 or 4 hours....litterally. (wonder where he gets that from?) When he is like this there is NO stopping him, he just goes on and on. But, I never want to tell him to "Hush" because I know there will be a day that he won't want to talk to us at all, so we try to not discourage it. Also, when he is like this, he tends to say some VERY funny things. Tonight was no exception. We were discussing "dating" and all that and here is what was said....

Chandler- "Isn't the person you date supposed to be your best friend? Like, aren't you supposed to want to spend alot of time together?"

Me- "Well, no not really. You should each have your own friends and your own lives outside of your 'girlfriend' " (this is my attempt to teach him not to let some cute little chicky-poo dominate all of his time when he starts dating-a mom can try can't she?"

Randy- "Alot of times you date people who aren't anything like you. You know, opposites attract"

Chandler- "Hmmm... you mean like you and Mom? She's "artsy" and you're "fartsy"

I nearly wet my pants. The kid speaks the truth I tell ya! That couldn't be more on the money, of our relationship. :)

I love that kid!

2009-04-03T12:22:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone!!!!

Just wanted to give a little update on our March of Dimes walk. We are so amazed and really blessed by those who have been able to donate to "Team Sweet Cheeks" As of this morning we are at $2185!!!!!! CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?!?!?!?! SO EXCITING!!!! Not only that, we are up to 30 walkers!!! Quick shout out to our team....

*Carolyn Bussey *Scott Norris

*Jaclyn Hatcher *Amber Norris

*Hunter Hatcher *Mikayleigh Norris

*Chad Kaercher *Kaylyn Norris

*Kim Kaercher *Ken Norris

*Blake Kaercher *Sharon Norris

*Callie Kaercher *Richard Sharpton

*Keri Vaughan *Sharon Sharpton

*Trinity Vaughan *Jesse Sutton

*Thomas Vaughan *Keren Sutton

*Kristie Ezell *Sharon King

*Levi Black *Randy Cheeks

*Heather Black *Tomi Cheeks

*Neeley Black *Chandler Patterson

*Will Black *Teresa Blackmon

We are thrilled! As you can see we have several families and sweet little ones joining us! It is not too late for you to be a part of our team OR to donate! To be on the team, just let me know (asap) that you want to walk and also give me your size t-shirt. Those HAVE to be ordered by Tuesday, so if you would like one, I need to know soon. :) To donate, click here. Please feel free to forward our link to those you work with, family, and friends. The site will give them Sterling's story and picture, why we are walking, and how to donate or even join our team. We are still planning on a small breakfast that morning and picnic lunch afterwards (with a cake too!). This is going to be so great and we are so happy that you are all taking this journey with us, if it is financially, walking, or sending your sweet thoughts and prayers our way!

Hope to hear from some more of you soon! :)

And...Just because a post is better with a picture....

Here is the reason we are walking! Pretty sweet, Huh?!?!

2009-03-24T09:06:00.004-05:00

Hey All!!!!

We are so excited to report that thanks to many of you we have already exceeded our goal for the March for Babies on April 18th!!! Right now our total is $1735!!! We would LOVE to double our goal and there is still time to donate, so if it is on your heart to do so here is the link again.

We also know that money is super tight for lots of us and we understand that it isn't possible to donate right now. There are two other ways that you can be part of our team and help support us. First of all, your love, prayers, and encouragement as we set out to try and make a contribution to such a great cause. Second, you can walk with us. You don't have to donate in order to walk. Just let me know that you would like to join us for this "Celebration" of Sterling's health, and I will ,with great joy, add you to my list. We have found someone that is printing shirts for us. They can be ordered from a tiny little youth size up to a 2X. The cost of the shirt is around $8.00 We would just LOVE to have a huge team, sporting their "Team Sweet Cheeks" t-shirts, walking, enjoying one another, and eating a picnic lunch with us! I will need your shirt order by April 5th to make sure that you get your shirt in time for the walk. (I have also attached the shirt design at the bottom of the email)

Right now, one of our youngest walkers, Mikayleigh, has met and exceeded her personal goal too. She is such a sweet girl and we are honored to have her on our team. Here, in her own words, is why she is joining us....

"Hi! My Name is Mikayleigh, I am 8 years old and I am walking for my baby Sterling!!

I had just got back from the hospital when my daddy got the phone call from Uncle Randy, I knew it was bad when I saw my daddy start crying.

I got out of the car and ran to my Mom where I dropped to my knees in the front yard and prayed so hard for God to make her better!!

I had to stay with my Grammy while Mom and Dad went back to the hospital, I wanted to go but they wouldn't let me. I kept praying and praying that she would get better!

I visited Aunt Tomi the next day and then went to Cooks where my baby Sterling was being taken care of, this made me feel a little better!

I still remember when my mom showed me the picture of her laying there in that weird bed with a BIG "Aunt Tomi" Bow on her head, she looked so cute!

I continued to pray for her and her family and she beat all the odds against her and came home in 2 weeks. I know God anwsers prayers because look at that girl now!

I am walking to show how much I LOVE Sterling and all the other babies that March of Dimes save!"

Isn't she so precious?! Will you please join us and sweet Mikayleigh on our walk, Saturday, April 18th?

Have a great week! We look forward to hearing from you!

~Tomi, Randy, Chandler Garrett, & Sterling

March for Babies- 2009

front/back of t-shirt

2009-03-24T08:51:00.005-05:00

We are walking in the March of Dimes, March for Babies!

We are on a journey to help preemies like our tiny little Sterling.

I have been sending out e-mails to get the word out and am now placing them here on our blog. PLEASE feel free to forward this to anyone who might be interested in helping or participating in this fun day! We are so excited and can't wait to share our success with all of you!

It is hard to believe that our sweet Sterling Maye is already 4 months old! She is THRIVING; beautiful big blue eyes, fat, happy, a smile that will melt you, and MOST importantly she is HEALTHY (the set of lungs this girl has now are strong- trust me :)

As you all know, this precious little one made quite the dramatic entrance into our world, and unlike her mother (who is chronically late to everything) made her debut 4 weeks early. A preemie. Weighing in at 6 pounds 6 ounces and 18 inches long. She blew holes in both lungs and was transported to Cooks Childrens Hospital in Fort Worth for a 2 week stay in the NICU. There is no question that Sterling made it through because of the excellent care that she received from the doctors, nurses, support staff, and volunteers at Cooks. The reason that Cooks is so well prepared and up on the latest care for preemies, like Sterling, is in part, because of organizations like the March of Dimes.

The March of Dimes is America's favorite walking event! When you walk, you give hope to the families of babies born too soon or sick. The money you raise supports programs in you community that help moms have healthy, full-term pregnancies. And it funds research to find answers to the serious problems that threaten our babies. They have been walking since 1970 and have raised an incredible $1.8 billion to benefit all babies.

There is also absoultley NO DOUBT that we wouldn't have made it through those first few weeks of her life, if it hadn't been for the love, support, and prayers that you so unselfishly lavished on our family. We are humbly asking for that support again. We are forming a team to walk in honor of Sterling and the joy that she is bringing to our lives. You can participate by showing up to walk and /or by donating money in Sterling's name. It is our goal to raise $1000 for the March of Dimes. We would be thrilled and honored if you would stand by us again for this celebration of her life. You could also forward this to those you work with, go to church with, any school organizations- it is a great community service project! This is an awesome thing to do with your entire family-The more the merrier!

To find out more... click here, OR you can click on the link at the top of our blog.

~Randy, Tomi, Chandler Garrett, & Sterling

2009-03-19T23:09:00.003-05:00

4 months & with her elephant

she screamed until this picture. then we got a little half smile

....and more thumb sucking

2009-03-19T22:57:00.000-05:00

Just a little more cuteness!

2009-03-19T22:07:00.002-05:00

Nothing says spring like FREEZING COLD soccer!

Dude started soccer again this spring! He is so excited.

He is playing back on the same team that he played on before we moved to Burleson, so he is a happy happy camper. It ALWAYS seems like spring soccer starts out so DARN cold!

His first two games, it was about 42 degrees and 30 mile an hour winds.

(remember a few days ago, I had the baby in shorts- Love that Texas weather)

We all bundled up and headed out twice this weekend and all nearly froze to death.

Except Sterling. We had her SO wrapped up that she was sweating!

We are looking forward to more games and hopefully, warmer weather!

Chandler on the side lines hoping to go in so that he can run and warm up!

I will remind him someday of days like this- when he thinks that I never did anything for him.

Don't all kids say that at some point? I have the pictures to prove him wrong. :)

Little sister all bundled up!

This is us at the night game. Still stinking cold. Sterling is under there...

see the hat on her punkin head?!?!

2009-03-19T21:32:00.002-05:00

4 months old and a little bit mad

Our sweet little one is now officially 4 months old!

This was the day that we went in for her check-up and shots.

She is growing like crazy! All that eating is doing her good!

She is now 25" long and 15 pounds 4 ounces! A VERY big girl!

She is so happy and doing great!

They had to give her 2 shots this day and she was MAD about it!

She was all smiles before the shots, then she screamed bloody murder,

then she passed out in her car seat for nearly 3 hours,

THEN she woke up and looked at me like this the rest of the day.

"Mommy, why did you let them do that to me?!"

She literally looked at me like this the entire rest of the day!

She was really mad!

I thought that you might like to see how she has grown over the last few months:

*11/24 6 pounds, 4 ounces and 20" long

*12/8 7 pounds, 2 ounces and 20 3/4" long

*12/26 9 pounds, 8 ounces

*1/8 11 pounds, 2 ounces and 22 inches

She is a big ole girl and we just love her to pieces!

2009-03-19T20:59:00.002-05:00

This girl likes to eat!

She is 16 weeks old and that means she can start to eat

solids. AND SHE LOVES IT!!!!!

Green beans were the first one to try and look at that smile!

She is a huge fan!

She ate great and is now eating 3-4 times a day!

The only thing that I don't like is that she

is such a spitter upper (which is YUCK!) that now all

the spit up is the color of what ever she has eaten instead of

just plain ole white formula. Oh the stains!

I would like to point our that she isn't wearing a bow-

like many of you think that she wears 24-7.

She looks like a COMPLETELY differnt baby though!

So, while she is eating, brother is cleaning up after dinner...

.these are the kind of pictures that he lets me take of him theses days.

Lovely.

After all that eating vegies-she was ready for a little nap.

2009-03-19T20:41:00.002-05:00

look at those legs!!

....and arms and feet! oooohhh i could just eat her up!

this sweet little thing has been covered with long sleeves, and pants, socks

since she was born. with it being so cold we just have rarely seen those

chubby little rolls-except for bath time and a diaper change.

We had great weather and this was the first time that she wore shorts and short sleeves.

she must have loved how ti felt to be free of all those clothes,

she wiggled and giggled all day.

I can't wait to see more of that baby girl skin this summer!

(it gives me more places to kiss!)

2009-03-19T20:20:00.002-05:00

Catching up...again

Yes, I am WAAAAYY behind again...sorry to those who keep up.

Anyway...When we came home from our trip we were so so happy to see the kids (and the dog). So the next few days, I spent soaking all three of them up and loving on them. (I would like to give a side note- I do still at least TRY to take pictures of Garrett, his new thing is to hide from the camera and not let me catch a glimpse of him. I don't have favorite children, just one that won't cooperate) :)

This is how I often find the baby and the girl dog. I love it. So thus the picture.

Now, this is her new trick. I must say that although it is not the best thing

for her, it is so stinking cute and I love it!

(I did try for a few days to keep it out of her mouth, and even tried leaving a mitten on both of her hands. Neither one worked. She is determined)

I really can't say much, I sucked my thumb till I was in High School- I can't believe that I am

admitting that, but it's true.

She LOVES this so much! She make so much noise when she is going to town on that thumb and you can hear sighs of joy coming from behind that slobbery thumb.

Either thumb works, she is ambidextrous (sign of a genius, I do believe)

I guess we will worry about braces and teeth and all that mess later.

For now, we will just enjoy the cuteness.

2009-03-01T22:25:00.002-06:00

Our Get Away

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Randy's work sends us on a trip every year- yay us!! This is such a great "perk" to his job. He works so hard all year and really earns this trip. So, luckily, he gets to take one guest-so happy that he keeps picking me! :) His parents were kind enough to come stay with the kids so that we could go and have no worries!

This year the trip was to Paradise Island in the Bahamas- we stayed at the fabulous Atlantis hotel. It was so beautiful! The architecture and design were amazing. The pools and water park were so fun- we really missed having Garrett with us, he would have loved it. The only bummer to the whole week was that it was pretty cool and really windy. But, it was such a welcomed break and time that we needed to be together that we didn't care one bit.

We laughed, ate, shopped, swam, hung out in the Casino, Randy got to play golf on a really beautiful course, and we even slept ALL NIGHT for 4 whole days! We had a great time and are so thankful for the job that God has blessed Randy with. We are looking forward to next year already!

2009-02-28T22:18:00.004-06:00

3 Months

Our girl turned 3 months old in February.

She is sleeping through the night and eating

about 6 ounces of formula mixed with cereal

every 4 hours. She is a SPITTER!!!! Oh, my!

I think that we change clothes about 3 times a day

(mommy included).

It is usually followed by a great big smile and giggle-

which makes up for the mess !

She is starting to laugh and smile alot and seems

to follow us with her eyes and listen to our voices.

She LOVES her brother ( the feeling is mutual)!

They are so precious together.

He adores her and she think

s he is hilarious.

(as you can see in the pictures)

I can't wait to see the relationship that

grows between them as she grows!

I love the way they look at each other.

No one makes either one of them smile like they do each other.

2009-02-26T22:25:00.004-06:00

Baby's Got a New Pair of Shoes!!!

These were actually Sterling's very first pair of shoes

and they were so so cute.

I am sure that this will start a long long love

affair with shoes for my girl.

I foresee many shopping spree's in our future-

we just have to wait for daddy to go to the dear lease. :)

Here are a few extra's of her that we just love!

No, she usually doesn't bathe with her bow in...it just happen to be so cute.

This girl LOVES a bath so much. Stick her in and she is a happy happy girl!

Seriously?!?! Are those eyes to die for? And check out those eye lashes!

Cutie pie!

2009-02-26T22:02:00.004-06:00

Sterling at 8 weeks old!

This was Sterling at 8 weeks. She clearly wasn't happy about getting her picture taken, but it had to be done. (oh the things we put our sweet children through). She is thriving and doing so great. She is on a good little schedule, waking up only once a night to eat- then she falls right back to sleep. She is so so happy (no really, she is- you just can't tell in this picture) and we could just eat her up!

2009-02-26T21:34:00.002-06:00

Long time no Blog.....

Hey everybody!!!! We are STILL alive! The new year has kept us very busy- I don't know that I could tell you exactly with what, but busy none the less. I am trying to catch up on the Blog and let you all back into our lives!

We had our first family photo (first family of 5, that is-don't forget Zoey!) just after Christmas. They were taken by a photographer that I am CRAZY about, her name is Kate Mefford. The best part is, we have her booked to do pictures of us in May and again in November! YAY! We love the pictures and can't wait to share them with you and have Kate back to do the next session!

Please leave comments! We love them- they make us happy!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

2009-01-07T13:37:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year 2009

From our family to yours!

We pray blessings, joy, and laughter for you this year!

Much love- Randy, Tomi, Chanlder, & Sterling

2009-01-07T12:07:00.004-06:00

A Cheeky Christmas

We had a fun family Christmas In Baton Rouge. We've been celebrating the week after Christmas-which I love, because it stretches out the fun! We all go to Randy's parents and stay for a few days and it is CRAZY! 19 of us in one house...4 little girls, 3 little boys, and 12 loud grownups (and we are still growing). Board games, golf, shopping, laughing, fireworks, eating, friends, presents, and lots more fill our time together! We love our family and so look forward to being with them again this summer in Tennessee when we welcome Cheeks baby number 8!

2009-01-07T11:04:00.003-06:00

New Orleans

Make a Smilebox slideshow

This was my first trip to New Orleans. I LOVE this city. I can't wait to go back and spend way more time there. The people are so interesting, the music is great, and the local artist are fabulous. This was my kinda place. I asked Randy if we could live there- he said no, 'cause the people are weird...that is exactly why I would want to live there. :) He and I are so different. Anyways...we had lots of fun and we will FOR SURE be making another trip back when we go to Louisiana again.

2009-01-05T22:17:00.002-06:00

A Day at the Zoo

Make a Smilebox slideshow

We went to Baton Rouge last week to visit our family. On Tuesday, we went to New Orleans to check out some sites. First on the list was the Audabon Zoo. It is a GREAT zoo! SO beautiful! You can get up so close to the animals and they are so amazing. Every time that I go to the zoo or out in nature like that, I am in awe of the creativity of our God. He is so good to us, to surround us with such beauty to enjoy. We had a great time and would love to go back one day when Sterling will actually see the zoo and not sleep through it. :)

2009-01-01T17:46:00.002-06:00

Our Little Family Christmas

We finally got to have "our" Christmas with Garrett this past weekend. Mom came and spent the night like always and we opened gifts, got new pj's, had a big breakfast, and played with toys. We had a great time together and enjoyed being together in our new house. Sterling slept through the whole thing-next year will be a whole different experience. I am so blessed with this little family of mine- I adore them and can't imagine life any other way!

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

2009-01-01T17:21:00.007-06:00

My Very First Cereal

Sterling has been super hungry lately, so we thought we might try some cereal. She LOVES it. We started giving it to her right at 6 weeks. Twice a day she gears up for some "good eatin" It apparently sits well with her. At her 4 week check up she weighed 7lbs 4.8 oz. I ran her up to the doctor the other day (she was 7 weeks) and she weighed 9 lbs 12oz!!!! That little punkin' is turning into a little

butterball. We love that she is starting to get double chins and rolls oh her legs! So precious!

2008-12-18T23:03:00.002-06:00

Santa

Ok, is this the cutest?!

North East Mall has THE BEST SANTA!!!!

He was so kind and super sweet with the kids-I was way impressed

(and I have seen my fair share of Santa's, so I am fully qualified

to judge him)

Garrett pretty much just "put on his happy pants" in order to

please his mom-not alot of 12 1/2 year olds in line.

This mommy was really happy with our pictures-

they turned out great and we made a memory-

which is my favorite part.

Is that not the greatest smile on Santa?

Sterling never new what was going on-

but it is still so sweet.

2008-12-18T22:37:00.002-06:00

Garrett is an Artist-it's official!

Garrett has always been so creative.

He gets it from both his parents-but mostly from his Daddy.

He had his very first Art Show this week.

It is all that he has talked about for weeks!

He entered 3 pieces of his art.....

he won a first AND a third place ribbon!

OH MY the sheer joy on his face- priceless!!!

The next step is the District Art show-

which is at the High School (which is very cool, by the way) in the spring.

I love that creativity is a part of who God made him to be.

I believe that our God is creative and that it is an amazing gift

that he has given my little guy.

I can't wait to see what pours out of him in the next few years.

Garrett and his Art teacher.

This is his first place piece.

It is a Chinese Landscape.

This one didn't get a ribbon- but it is still great!

Third place- the M&M people (are they people?-i don't know what else to call them)

2008-12-18T22:30:00.002-06:00

4 weeks old

This is Sterling at 4 weeks old.

Her G-dad gave her this HUGE pink elephant.

We are going to take her picture with it every now and then

to see how she is growing.

Clearly, this first time she WAS NOT a fan.

Maybe next time she will be a bit happier.

2008-12-18T22:10:00.002-06:00

Sisters

This is how I find "my girls" alot of the time.

Zoey likes to get up close to Sterling and snuggle.

We love to see this. It is the sweetest thing.

She is a good "Big Sister" to Sterling.

2008-12-05T09:14:00.002-06:00

Maw Maw & Paw Paw

Randy's parents have been here helping us for almost the full 4 weeks since Sterling arrived.

They have been so super helpful- Paw Paw has checked off about a million things

on our to-do list around the house, taken and picked up Garrett from School, Maw Maw has

fed the baby, changed diapers, gone to the store, helped keep up with laundry and food,

done a few of the midnight and 3am feedings too! These are just a few of the things

they have done to help us transition to a family of 4-(plus a cute Zoey dog.)

The day finally came for them to go home and we were all very sad.

I always enjoy having them here and seeing them with our kids and with Randy...

he loves them so much AND we get to hear the "real" stories of him growing up...

we also like to gang up on him a little :)

Anyway...Jim & Carafaye-

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!

I love having you here-wish you would stay forever! We will ALWAYS have

a place for you to stay and you are ALWAYS welcome.

I love you both so much!

Had to get a few pictures in of them holding grand baby #7.

I think that she likes them.

She is VERY comfy and sleeps great when they are around!

2008-12-05T08:58:00.002-06:00

December 4th- Our Due Date

Today is my due date...

and to think that this sweet little one has already been here for almost 4 weeks is

hard to wrap my brain around. When you are given "the date" you begin to live your life

by it-even though deep down it is basically a crap shoot. For 9 months I have repeated

"December 4th" over and over and over again. And every time I did, I would

think about this day, and all that it might entail- the birth of my new baby girl.

It is so strange to even think about her being inside my tummy now

(which is where she should be).

If she would have just waited, we would have missed all the drama and scariness

that the first 2 weeks of her precious little life brought us.

BUT, we would have also missed out on the incredible blessings of our

family and friends, the goodness of our God, the miracles that we witnessed,

the love and selflessness that was poured out on us, and the extra 4 weeks that we

have gotten to be with our sweet girl.

So, here are a couple of pictures on her due date-

one, she is smiling like a sweet little angel,

the other, screaming like a banchee.

Both equally as adorable-at least to us. :)

(the screaming won't be cute for much longer though)

2008-12-01T08:47:00.002-06:00

First Bath

Thanksgiving night was also Sterlings first bath!

She LOVED the water, but her favorite part was being held under the

running water from the faucet-I think that she will like showers the best.

The second we set her in the tub- she pooped, of course!

So we had to dump the water and start over

(that's when we held her under the faucet to keep her from freezing to death)

After we were situated again, she was happy as could be.

A tiny little wet baby girl wrapped up in a hooded towel is just about the cutest.

look ow teenie she is!

Ahhh! the bath feels SO good!

All snuggled up in my cute pink towel

2008-11-29T18:20:00.002-06:00

So So MUCH to be Thankful for!

We have so many blessings that have been bestowed upon us.

Not just this year, or the past few weeks, but always.

Unfortunately, it sometimes takes struggles to really see the blessings.

This year, we have a heightened sense of Thankfulness.

We are praying that it becomes our way of life-

to be thankful in EVERYTHING and in EVERY CIRCUMSTANCE!

Here are a few pictures of our very low key day at home with our little family!

Sterling in her

"Gobble til you Wobble" shirt.

Our Healthy kids-so thankful

The Fam

2008-11-28T00:18:00.002-06:00

Our two Girls

Well, I must say that we have the two cutest girls ever!

Zoey thinks Sterling is great. She wants to snuggle up to her.

Zoey like to lick the baby on the head and then plop down

right next to her for a little nap.

We, of course love it and think they are just the cutest,

and right about the same size too!

It won't be long until that poor little dog is being dressed

up and shoved into a toy stroller like she is Sterling's own little baby.

2008-11-28T00:00:00.002-06:00

Huntin'

So after a long two weeks at the hospital, I convinced Randy-

which wasn't too hard- to go hunting last Saturday. Bless his heart, he had spent about 15 hours a day at the side of Sterling's bed and he needed a

break. He loaded up Chandler, his Dad, and a couple of friends and off to

the lease they went. (at 2:30 in the morning-to sit in the dark, I don't

understand this silly "sport" but to each his own.)

They had a great day together and caught up on a nap or two in the stand.

The best part was Chandler shooting not just his first deer, but he got TWO!

The phone call from him was hilarious- I am the first one he called-sheer joy.

(again, I do not understand why killing Bambi is fun-again, to each his own)

He was so excited and I think that Randy may have been a little

more thrilled than Chandler. Chandler is now hooked-as long as he doesn't

have to clean them.

Here are a few pics from their day-the last one is a little yuck, so if

dead Bambi bothers you, skip the pictures.

Randy, Chandler, and Will

Chandler, getting ready to hunt.

One of his two prizes-so exciting

2008-11-27T14:58:00.004-06:00

We Are Outta Here!!!!!

The day has finally come!

Actually, we are leaving Cooks Childrens Hospital at least a week earlier

than anticipated. Sterling is doing so great and so far ahead of the doctors expectations

that she has been released this morning!!! They had told us that they would have us spend the night this weekend and then go home

....but my husband did a little sweet talking,

and they let us out of the overnight stay and we are on our way home!

This is a day long awaited for and prayed for even more-

the only reason that we are able to go home is with out a doubt,

because of the prayers that were lifted on behalf of our family.

We are so grateful for the care and love that has been given

to our daughter at Cook's. The entire staff, from the doctors and nurses to

the security and maintenance, made our 2 week stay as comfortable

as possible. We have also been so touched by the other families that have been

there at the same time. They have encouraged, supported, and prayed for us in a way

that only another parent that is dealing with such a scary thing can do.

Thank you thank you!

On our way out, we were sure to thank them all & with as much kindness that we could muster, told them that we hoped that we never see them again. :)

They said the same thing.

My going home hat-isn't it ridiculous and fabulous all at the same time?!

Happy Happy Day!

First time in the car

We were greeted by proud big brother at the front door!

Home has never felt so good!

2008-11-27T09:23:00.002-06:00

No Tubes & a Test!

Our girl has the last tube out of her tiny little body!!!

She has been eating like a champ, so the feeding tube is o longer needed!

So out it came this afternoon-she was not a big fan, I am sure just removing that

dang medical tape (which hurts me) off her sweet baby skin really hurt.

But- it is off, she looks BEAUTIFUL with out all that mess on her face.

She is just what we dreamed she would be.

So, now we are working on our check list to go home-maybe Saturday or Sunday!

We had to take a CPR class-check

get all her tubes out-check

eat on her own- check

gain or at least maintain her current weight- check

pass the car seat test-check

watch an orientation video- not yet

spend the night at the hospital with her,

while they observe us through the night-not yet

Her car seat test could be done once she was tube free, so this afternoon we did that.

They just plop her in her car seat for 90 minutes and observe her heart rate and

O2 levels- to make sure she can tolerate sitting up at that angle.

She looks so tiny in that seat!!

She didn't fuss a bit and passed the test with flying colors!

So we are one step closer to going home!

HOORAY!!!!

the last tube comes out!

Stylin' in my car seat

Don't I look so little in here?

I love my car seat-with the leopard trim

that Mommy picked just for me!

2008-11-27T00:01:00.002-06:00

Holding Her!

In the PNICU the nurses are a little more relaxed and you can actually let

other people hold your baby. YIPPEEEE!!!!

We had decided to keep it to Grandparents only-just to keep it simple and fewer germs

(still a wee bit paraynoid)

I happen to ask about others holding her while Randy's dad (Pa Pa) was in

the room with me-he looked at me and said

"Give me that baby, before Cara Faye (Randy's mom) gets in here"

If you will notice in his picture he has a HUGE grin on his face-he was thrilled to be the

first grandparent with his hands on our girl. :)

Then of course was Ma Ma, Grandmom, G-Mom, & G-Dad!

All equally as happy to snuggle up to her.

I have to say, that it was a precious moment to see each one hold her and love on her

they have waited so long.

However-the most precious to me, was to have my "Big One" hold my

"Tiny One" and have our first real family picture.

We have dreamed of this moment and talked about it so much, it was

hard for me to wrap my brain around it as it was happening.

Anyway-thanks for letting us share these milestones in our lives!

Pa Pa

Ma Ma

Grandmom

G-Mom & G-Dad

2008-11-20T23:19:00.002-06:00

Movin' on Up!

We FINALLY made it around the corner to our new room!

It is called the PNICU (Progressive NICU). They are calling Sterling

a "feeder and grower" It means just that....they are only keeping her to

teach her to feed and make sure that she grows.

The mood in this room is a little lighter...the babies here aren't nearly as sick as they

are in the NICU. Here, each nurse has at least 3 babies to look after, and Sterling is baby #3-

meaning, she needs very little "looking after" so she is an easy patient.

YAY STERLING!!!!!

Right now she just has the one feeding tube in. They are starting her on a bottle

(courtesy of mommy pumping-which is a WHOLE other ordeal, that I will not go into....just let me say quickly, I NEVER had any intention of nursing in ANY form or fashion, but

because she was so sick I am now pumping-hate it. Now, moving on.. :)

She has 30 minutes to eat what she can then the rest of it is given to her through the feeding tube. She isn't getting the hang of it just yet, but I know her to be not only beautiful, but also brilliant, so it won't be too long before she has it down on her own.

More pics and updates to come from our new home in the PNICU!

isn't she so cute?

(please disregard the large circles under Mommy's eyes)

Night Night little one!

2008-11-20T23:08:00.002-06:00

Big Girl Bed!!!

Sterling was moved out of her little incubator to a Big Girl Crib!

This is just one more step in the right direction!

She is doing much better-no tubes in her chest and we are waiting for a spot

in the Progressive NICU-it's still ICU, but not as critical as the NICU.

We are 3rd or 4th on the list, so hopefully in the next day or so we will have

a new address around the corner!

(oops you caught us with out a bow)

2008-11-17T23:29:00.002-06:00

Our Arms are Full and Our Hearts are Fuller

(isn't fuller a word?)

Yesterday we finally got to hold her! They removed her right drainage tube from her lung and that opened the door for us to yank her out of that bed and love on her. I wish I had been there when Randy first held her- look at the smile on his face (thank you to the nurse who captured that moment for me). I too was beside myself. It almost felt odd to actually have her in my arms.

They also had us start trying to feed her with a bottle. She is starting to get the hang of it. They let us try to bottle feed her for 30 minutes and then whatever she hasn't finished, goes into her feeding tube. She is starting to suck and swallow better and each feeding she seems to get a little more down.

The removal of all tubes (except the feeding one) also allowed me to dress her! YAY!!!! We picked a sweet little gown that made it easy for them to still check her and of course a fresh new bow. I am still having a hard time believing that I am actually dressing my own little girl. She looked darling- and of course we love that everyone stops by her bed to see what new bow she is wearing!

Just before we left last night she pulled her feeding tube out of her nose and then threw a HUGE fit when they tried to get it back in (i would too by the way). After about 10 minutes of shoving the darn thing up her nose, they had to put it back down her throat- which also ticked her off royally (she has the temper of her Daddy). She got so worked up that she threw everything up-which resulted in us loosing our clothing privileges for now. So no clothes and no bow- :( See what happens when you don't cooperate?

We are still on the path to healthy, we just need a few more days to get evened out. Will keep you posted on our progress. Again...thank you for your love and prayers!

This is what the first picture without all the mess on her face-

just a little O2 and the feeding tube

This is what she looks like with nuthin' on. No tubes, no tape, no bow, no clothes.

She looks like a completely different baby.

This is our first outfit. Also this is before she threw up all over it. :)

Pretty sweet, if I do say so myself!

2008-11-16T10:51:00.009-06:00

Last night Randy and I took a break from the hospital to be together and go to our church worship service. (keystonechurch.com). We were in great need of a little "fill up" Brandon started a new series entitled "Me, Myself, & I" It is about how we are wired as humans to be selfish. I find that very true in myself as I am sure all of us do.

The jewel that I took from church last night though was this...We are called to be selfless and serve each other just as Christ served. At the last supper He served his disciples by getting on his hands and knees and washing their feet. This was a picture of selfless serving, of love for his closest friends. We as His people are to do the same. We are to use the talents and gifts that He has created and purposely planted in each of us to serve one another when there is a need and build each other up when someone needs extra love.

We have been honored, humbled, blessed, and touched by the selflessness that we have witnessed and received this week. From the doctors and nurses, to our family and friends, strangers at the hospital and online, and new neighbors who we have yet to even meet. You have dropped everything for us, gone out of your way to call, come to our side in the middle of the night, cry with us, bring food, magazines, clothes, gifts, done laundry, taken care of our dog, sent flowers & cards, prayed and prayed and prayed,and just sat at our feet and ask "What can I do for you?" You have truly served us and our loving God this week.

We have always known that we were loved and never once questioned how deep that love flows- but to witness it in such a beautiful way, has changed us forever. We are bound to each of you in our hearts and love you.

Yes, we are a selfish people, but this has been an act of obedience and a witness to the beauty in all of us too. Thank you thank you thank you!

~randy, tomi, chandler garrett, sterling, and zoey

2008-11-16T00:39:00.002-06:00

Ventilator Free!!!!!!!

See that big Jet Ventilator with all the wires and what have you?

see ALLLLLLL the lights turned off?

see ALLLL the wires and tubes just dangling there?

PRAISE GOD from whom all blessings flow!!!!!

Lights are off and tubes hanging, because they are not attached to our little girl anymore to keep her alive!!!!! She is doing it all on her own-with a little help from a certain God that we know and love!!!!

It is a beautiful sight to us!

This is her tonight, less tubes, wires, and lights.

She actually looks like our baby now.

Today we are sporting a hot pink hat with zebra bow, and one fabulous zebra sock on the foot that is bare of other tubes.

(hey, we will take what we can get it- a great bow and one great sock is good enough for me!)

She is really making progress and hopefully by tomorrow we will have another great report!!!

We may even get to hold her tomorrow!!!!! YIPPEEEEE!

2008-11-15T23:54:00.002-06:00

My two babies---

It is sur-real to see Garrett/Chandler (which ever makes you happy) and Sterling together. I am sure that every mom feels this way when they add a sibling to their family. This is just a really precious time for me.

Years ago when Garrett/Chandlers Dad and I divorced, I had always hoped that wouldn't be the end of my "child bearing" -that sounds corny, but let's just go with it. But as the years went on, the question of more children for me seemed to be dwindling...and I had finally gotten to a place where that was ok. I was so filled up with love for not only Garrett/ Chandler, but also with love for the many little ones I have around me. I have no doubt in my mind that God

blessed me with them to fill the void that I had in my heart.

I remember not too long before Randy and I met, that God and I had talk....

and we decided that I was complete-with out a husband or other children-

complete in His love and provision for both myself and Garrett/Chandler.

Ahhhhh, the peace that passes all understanding.

......................................

It was then that God freed me up from those chains of longing and sadness.

....................................

Just in time to have my heart be prepared for Randy and what is our now precious family.

God is so so good.

I am so overwhelmed with the way I see Garrett/Chandler and Sterling.

He represents my growth-spiritually, emotionally, and yes-even physically.

He represents a God who NEVER fails, who ALWAYS protects, and Provides,

a God that can turn water into sweet sweet wine,

a God with a fabulous sense of humor.

She represents hope for our future. She represents new beginnings and eyes that look to what's around the corner with curiosity and adventure. She represents strength and beauty.

She represents the power of prayer and miracles.

She represents a God who can orchestrate perfect harmony in an imperfect family.

So now to see them holding hands-maybe you can see a glimpse of what this mothers heart sees.

Holding hands for the first time!

He looks so proud!

This is of course the bow of the day.

Don't know if you van tell, but it matches the blanket over her bed.

Who says you can't be stylin' in the NICU??

2008-11-13T15:38:00.004-06:00

If you know me at all, you know that I have been dreaming about a GREAT BIG BOW

ever since we found out that this baby girl was on her way. Since she has been so sick, a bow has not been on the top of anyone elses list-I, however just new that it would make her feel better, but I didn't win that battle......until tonight!!!!!!!

She is in the NICU at Cooks, the night shift nurse was so precious, and had had her a little (teenie tiny) bow and stuck it on her head. swell, I was that as an opportunity to at least ask about my big bows-she said "ABSOLUTELY!" So with out hesitation, the sweet little teenie green bow came off and on went my big huge one.

It is GIANT on her little bitty head, and I LOVE IT!!!!!

We have made a huge step in getting better- a big ridiculous bow can work wonders!!!

The tiny bow

Her eyes opened up once there was some kind of bow on her head. :)

Big Huge and Fabulous!!!!

It even holds on her little ear muffs- see a bow is medically necessary!

Now, we have to figure out what color to put on next! :)

2008-11-11T23:55:00.004-06:00

Our Tiny Little Girl!!!

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

As many of you know. This past Saturday evening, we prematurely gave birth to our Little Sterling Maye Cheeks. She weighed in at 6 pounds & 6 ounces, and 18 3/4" long. She was delivered at 36 week via c-section. She let out a good holler and we thought that she was healthy, great, and FABULOUS!!!!

She is still great and fabulous.....the healthy part, not so much. Her little lungs are underdeveloped and have been working really hard to breathe. We first thought it would be a minor set back- put her on a C-pap machine and stay in the NICU for a couple of days, then home by Thursday. She was breathing on her own but struggling still a little. A couple hours later she had worked so hard, that she blew holes through both of her lungs. After an emergency procedure , she is now on a ventilator and oxygen, and some other not so fun things too. They were no longer able to care for her here at Harris HEB so we had her transported her via teddy bear transport to Cook Children's downtown. Daddy was able to ride with her and has stayed ever since. I am still here trying to heal as fast as I can, in order to get back to my family. Chandler is trying to stick with his daily routine, but is getting a little bit crabby about all that is going on.

We have been incredibly humbled by the amounts of love that been poured out over us- nonstop for the past three days. We have always known that we were loved-this has been such a confirmation of that love and the love that God has for our family to so graciously and strategically place people in our lives for this very moment.

The latest update is ....

-Sterling is improving. Not by huge leaps and bounds. Baby steps. They are slowly turning down the ventilator and her oxygen intake. She at times is breathing above the vent-just not consistently. Big step yesterday-they began giving her formula and now some breast milk through a g-tube. She has actually gained weight and at last measurement was up to 6 pounds 10 ounces! (that is most defiantly on our side). There are so many other things that I could report, I am sure, but since I am not there in the hospital with her, it is hard for me to wrap my brain around it all and then relay it. Hopefully after I am released this morning and make a move over there, I will be able to give better info. They have told us to expect a up to a 4 week stay, maybe more- if it is less- we will take it and praise God for a miracle!

-I am being released this morning sometime. I am obviously sore and achey. My insides feel yucky, but should get better with time.

Randy has been amazing. He has not left her side hardly since she got here. Obviously he is in Daddy mode and wants to do whatever it takes to "fix" her. I am told that he is asking great questions and is really understanding exactly what is going on with the tiny one. He sits with her (actually stands- no room for chairs in the NICU) for as long as he can through out the day. He has let me know that he and Sterling have all the worlds problems worked out and that they have very important ,long conversations, and that she is super smart. :)

Here is how you can pray for us specifically....

*For Sterling, we re-claim the verse that God gave me last April to pray over her..."He who began a good work in me, will be faithful to complete it." That He is faithful to complete her tiny little lungs and repair the damage. That she will quickly grow strong and healthy.

*For Garrett- he has so many emotions all at once. He is experiencing LOTS of change and is trying to get settled and process his feelings. Pray that he feels apart of the process and that he is comfortable opening up about all that is going on in his little head and heart. Also, that he doesn't withdrawal (which is his tendency).

* For Randy- He has been so great. I know that he feels so pulled between Sterling, Garrett and I. Trying to balance the people that rely on him is exhausting. Pray that he is given continued strength and wisdom as he talks to the doctors and nurses. Pray that the few times that he actually does get to lay down and rest, are very deep and renewing sleep.

* For us as a family - that we are bonding as a family. That our marriage is not under attack in this time and that our son feels like we adore him still, just like we did before.

I know that there are so many more things to share, stories to tell and people to thank. After we get into a better routine, hopefully I will better be able to keep you more informed. until then- we thank you from the VERY bottom of souls for all that you are doing for us- we feel your arms wrapped around us and we are eternally grateful.

2008-10-31T23:34:00.003-05:00

Oh, by the way.... Happy Halloween!

This is my very first year for Garrett to not be with me. It was time to share with his Daddy, Amanda, and his brother and sister. I am so sad to not have seen him tonight- he LOVES to dress up (he gets that from dad) and starts thinking about the costume in May. (wears me out a little) Anyway....Amanda is great about putting pictures on their family blog so go check it out and se my man dressed as the JOKER. He looks great and sounds like he had a good time!

Thank you Jacob and Amanda for making sure that he had fun and his costume was all situated with make up and hair!!! The two little ones were quite adorable too!

2008-10-31T23:20:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to let anyone who keeps up with us, to know that we are still alive!

We have been CRAZY busy the past few weeks and I don't think that I have had 2 extra seconds to post one darn thing. Here are the highlights of the past couple of weeks. I hope to have sometime to post new pictures and more info soon!

*We moved- I am 9 months prego and we moved. What a big job. I am too old for all this.

*Randy has worked at the new house every night for 3 weeks and I have been at the old one packing. I hope I don't eat these words, but here goes anyway....I AM NEVER MOVING EVER NEVER EVER AGAIN!!!! I WILL DIE IN THIS HOUSE AT A VERY OLD AGE. NEVER AGAIN. :)

*Garrett started at his new school this last Tuesday and is doing GREAT! I was nervous all day- it was like taking him to kindergarten all over again. All I did was watch the clock so that I could go get him. He is loving it and adjusting really really well. So proud of him.

*We have lived here for a week and today they finally got the kitchen mostly finished. I am so tired of eating out- can't wait to eat at home again.

*Randy has been out of town fora week at a confrence and left again today for opening weekend of deer season- he was SO excited.

*Garrett has been with his Daddy the past two weekends, so it has pretty much just been me and Zoey unpacking (with some help from some wonderful people who love us).

* I am growing and getting bigger by the second. I am at 35 weeks and already dialated to a 3. Sterling is breech and completely folded in half. One of my doctors that I saw this week, doesn't sound to convinced that she will turn over or that I will make it to 38 or 39 weeks. She told me to go home and get my bags packed and car seat ready. OH MY!!!! Did I mention that we just moved and I am up to my eyeballs in a huge mess. I need her to hang on at least 2 more weeks. The important thing is, she is healthy and so am I. I may have to have a c-section, but in the grand scheme of things, that is minor and I am so blessed to have had a healthy pregnancy and baby. Everything else is just small potatoes!

I hope that you are all doing well and enjoying the fall! I will try to get something else up soon!

Much love to everyone!

2008-10-15T17:36:00.002-05:00

Just want to remind everyone that I do have a photography website.

I would love for you to check it out and see my work!

Let me know when you visit it and what you think!

www.gypsyheartphotography.com

2008-10-15T17:14:00.002-05:00

The Henslee's

Aren't they cute! Sweet sweet family that I got to follow around

on Sunday. The boys are so precious! Happy as can be

and super cooperative - which always makes my job a bit easier!

If you are lucky, maybe you will get one of their Christmas cards this year!

2008-10-15T17:06:00.002-05:00

The Circus

We had our yearly trip to the circus this last weekend. Fun as always! There were about a million babies there that were dressed to the "t" and were so darn cute....one was dressed as a clown-she was about 9 months old and all we could do was talk about how we can't wait to bring Sterling with us next year!

And maybe she will be a clown too! So cute!

2008-10-13T09:59:00.004-05:00

Randy's 32!!!

This last week Randy had his 32nd Birthday. (he's so old- hee hee) He has been so busy between work and working on the house, that we didn't get to really celebrate like I would like (and his birthday is all about me-right?) anyway...after another long day of him working, I made dinner-roast, potatoes, carrots, hot corn, and Symphony Brownies. It was just our little family, our dog, and of course, the Birthday Sombrero. It was nice to just sit together and look at each others faces- a rare occurrence these days.

Randy is simply just the best guy ever. He is constantly giving, sacrificing, working and loving our growing family. He never complains, is rarely a grump- due to his lack of sleep and rest. He loves us with out end and we are always secure in knowing that we are his priority. I am constantly humbled knowing that God was so gracious in giving him to me and Garrett.

Happy Birthday sugar! We love you and can't wait to spend the next year with you!

love -

tomi, Garrett, Sterling & Zoey

The Laurence /Tooley Family

2008-10-12T22:52:00.005-05:00

The Laurence - Tooley Family

2008

I love this family. The out takes are quite hilarious. :) I have known Elizabeth - the bride to be in the middle- for over 20 years. This is her whole wide family and I was SO happy to be able to take their pictures! Here are a few of my favorites from the day. Enjoy!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

SO FAR BEHIND!!!!

2008-10-12T22:48:00.002-05:00

Trying to play a little catch up. I am, as we said when waiting tables, IN THE WEEDS!!!! I will try to get lots posted soon-please be patient and check back in to see what we've been up to!

2008-10-02T17:53:00.003-05:00

Well....our new house is a DEEE-ZASSSS-TERRRRR!!!!

We closed on the house Tuesday at 11 am, by 12:30 pm they were knocking out walls, and tearing up the kitchen. Now it is just a huge mess. But- we are starting to see the "vision" that we have for our new home. We are so looking forward to be in the house, being settled, and getting ready to bring Sterling home.

Randy is working like a dog-between work and working on the house, he is worn out! I am so grateful to have a husband who is willing to sacrifice so much for our family- with out one moments complaint. I wish that I was equally as kind when I am tired and overwhelmed....thank goodness that he loves me regardless of my moods. :)

Keep checking the blog to see our progress. We have 3 weeks from tomorrow to get it all done-so we will have updates really fast and furious.

Blog ya later!!!

slideshow - Powered by Smilebox" src="http://www.smilebox.com/globalImages/blogInstructions/blogLogoSmileboxSmall.gif" style="border: medium none ;">

Make a Smilebox slideshow

2008-09-28T21:00:00.003-05:00

The Hallelujah Chorus!!!!

The angels are singing in unison-shhh...if you're quiet enough you can hear them.

Ok, maybe not angels...but someone, somewhere is singing.

I finally finished Sterlings bedding today (for the most part). I need some pillows here and there, but mostly all DONE!!! I always do this to myself- I have these BIG ideas of what I want and think "I can do that myself"

Pretty sure this is the last time for this big of a project. My seamstress skills are lacking- ALOT. So if you ever come to visit my precious girl and her funky fabulous room, please, don't look too close at the bedding...but it sure is cute from far away with squinted eyes!

There is still MUCH to be done to get ready for her arrival-not to mention moving. Hopefully, soon I will be able to show you pics of her real nursery in our new house. Now that this is all set up, we have to take it all apart and pack it :(

This is the full length view- like I have said before, this is NOT her room so there will

be no dead pheasant on the wall.

The inside of her crib-fabulously mis-matched.

I am not a fan of the stuffed animal, BUT, this little one was so different and sassy.

I hope that she is Sterlings favorite. Now we just need a great name for her.

2008-09-25T21:35:00.007-05:00

2921 Oakridge

This is our new house!

After having both our home and our property for sale for over a year, lots of prayer, and some finger crossing...both sold with in three days of each other! Can you imagine?

HUGE miracle!!! It is closer to our church that we love, in our old familiar town, Chandler will get to go back to school with the kids that he went to elementary school with....good good things, and amazing answers to prayers!!

We found this house last Saturday, made an offer on Sunday, met with a contractor on Tuesday, we close this next Tuesday, and Wednesday morning, renovations start. The whole house has to be re-done. Floors, tile, carpet, tile, paint, kitchen expanded, walls knocked out, doors put in-yadda yadda yadda. It all has to be done in less than 3 weeks!!!

Needless to say, we have been SO SO SO busy, picking things out, making decisions, looking at furniture, selling furniture, mentally preparing for a move, and I am emotionally preparing to move from the first house that our family lived in. All the while, my sweet husband is working his rear off, Chandler is doing GREAT at school in all of his advanced placement classes, I am Christmas shopping (trying to get ahead), and trying to make all of Sterling's bedding. We are tired, excited, nervous, and so many other emotions all at once.

Lots of great things going on in our family!

We will be sure to show you the house as it goes through it's face lift. Then when we get moved in, you should come see us!

The Countdown Begins

2008-09-25T20:47:00.003-05:00

30 weeks and 10 to go!!!!

I can't believe it....how is it already time to start counting down?

Last time we went to the doctor they found that I am severely anemic and thought that I might have gestational diabetes. Which would explain SO much about some of the things that I have been feeling (so tired, weak, hard time concentrating, light headed, shaky, etc..). So, I got to go back a week later and go through another glucose tolerance test- three hours, some nasty flat orange drink, and 4 vials of blood later- every thing came back fine, NO Diabetes. I do have the anemia, which is treated with some extra iron tablets. No big deal. If that is the worst thing- we are super blessed!!!

I am getting bigger an bigger by the day. I am carrying her so differently than I ever did Garrett. Straight out in front of me. I CAN NOT imagine what in the world I will look like in 10 weeks. People stop and ask when I am due and when I say December 4th, they are shocked. that it is not in the next few days, or hours for that matter. :) It should be highly interesting to see- I already look like a cartoon character.

Please keep praying for our family as we are preparing for the tiny one and learn to become a family of four. We look so forward to sharing more with you!

2008-09-07T21:33:00.002-05:00

Randy's Work Shower

Today, Randy's employee's gave us a shower. It was so nice! They went WAY over what we would have ever expected. They were all so kind and generous with their time and gifts and love. It is so nice to see that the people that work for Randy really do appreciate him and want to help our family celebrate the coming of our Sterling!

There are some picture's below so you can have a little peek at our party. They had everything so cute. On the back porch there were 3 clothes lines that were full with super cute baby clothes and head bands hanging from them. We got our stroller, car seat, and tons of necessities- burp rags, blankies, bottles, etc... They also had a full size upholstered chair made for her bedroom! Wow!

We are super blessed and so thankful for all that they did for us. We can't wait to go through them again and put them up in her room! FUN!!!!

2008-09-04T11:06:00.006-05:00

This is how homework should be done!!!

I sent Garrett off to do some homework the other day. He usually does it free of complaining or much fussing. I popped in to check on him and this is what I found....a cold drink, crackers and easy cheese, and an MP3 player (oh, and notice the kitchen timer-so he doesn't read longer than absolutely necessary). I stood there and watched him for a good while before he noticed me...then he was embarrassed. He still finished up his homework and he was happy as can be. I love these moments-the ones where you catch your kids doing something so stinking cute and they are oblivious to the rest of the world-it's nice to know that they don't grow out that. :)

2008-08-26T17:07:00.002-05:00

First Day of 7th Grade!

Isn't he so cute?

He looks so old to me. :(

This is the new principle greeting the kids at the front door.

Garrett looked him right in the eye,shook his hand, said good morning , and started his day!

Today, Garrett (Chandler-whatever) started the SEVENTH GRADE!!!! AGHHHH!!!!! I so vividly remember my first day of seventh grade. Even though he was in Middle School last year as a sixth grader, there is something defining about 7th grade!

This morning he came into my bathroom-he was completely dressed but had a perplexed look on his face. I asked him what the problem was and he pointed to a pimple right in the middle of his forehead! He has been getting them here and there, but hasn't given them a second thought, but today, it was a problem. So funny. We took care of it and off he went- I photo shopped it out of his pictures. (I should note that on my first day of seventh grade I had a HUGE pimple on the end of my nose AND my forehead-I could so relate!)

He did great! Had a great day! Came out with a smile on his face and talking ninety to nothing- I love that part of back to school...hearing him tell me about his world, in his own words, through his eyes! This year I set the bar a little higher and requested all pre-AP classes (advanced placement), which he got. I just thought that the challenge might make him work a little harder and help him set his sights higher, plus, I totally believe in positive peer pressure-he wasn't super thrilled about it, but did really like his teachers and was a bit excited about what's to come! He is also taking tennis and art which he is SO EXCITED about! We are praying for a great year and can't wait to see what God has in store!

Here are a few stats about him- I don't know why I never thought to write this stuff down at the beginning of the year, but I am anxious to see how much he grows and changes...

* 4 feet 9 inches tall

* weighs in at 90 pounds

* wears a size Sm/ Med in "mens" shirts

* wears a size 14 in pants

* wears a size 7 in mens shoes

MERCY!!!! How did he get so big?