Living on Tulsa Time

I am a horrible poster!

2011-04-25T10:59:00.004-05:00

I just never seem to get around to it. We stay so busy (especially now living on 13 acres where there is ALWAYS something to do) that it is hard to find time for much other than that. Nothing particularly exciting is going one. We just got done enjoying Easter weekend with the family. It rained the whole time, but we still made the most of it - even Easter egg hunting in the house. Mom and Harvey are finally getting everything settled to finish moving here. Almost everything has been moved up to the new house; Harvey starts his new job today; and mom will be here for good in three weeks. I am so glad that has finally worked out for them (and us).

Kevin and I are still getting ready to make our trip to Key West in May for our anniversary (10 YEARS!!!) and our friend's wedding. I am really looking forward to the break and the time away together, but I know it will be hard to leave Colten. This will be the longest and furthest I have ever been away from him. At least I know he will be in good hands.

Speaking of the bear, he is growing like a weed and talking more and more in sentences and big words every day. I can't believe how fast it is going! Until I find something more interesting to talk about, enjoy some pics from the last couple of months.

Easter Sunday

Worn out after a hard weekend of playing

He has discovered playing in the sprinkler.

He's had several haircuts, but this is the first time he sat in the chair by himself. :)

Playing with daddy's hunting gear

He loves the Mickey Mouse Aunt Megan sent him from Disney!

Snowbound

2011-02-03T14:40:00.004-06:00

our house in the snow

So, this is what it is like to be stuck in your own home. We have been stuck here for four days now. And, based on our recent excursion outside, we aren't going anywhere for a while. We thought we would go out and test the snow if you will. The car got stuck before we were even able to finish backing up. I walked a ways down our driveway to the top of the hill to the road, and the snow is up to my knees. With nothing but Honda Accords to drive, it doesn't bode well for escaping. So, as you can see, we are making the most of it and had some snow ice cream. Colten loved it!

pond frozen over

drifts on the south side of the house

Colten making snow ice cream

eating the snow ice cream

car stuck in the snow

Snow day(s)!

2011-02-02T08:31:00.003-06:00

So, what a week we have had so far. Kevin started feeling bad on Sunday. On Monday, after getting him all the way to daycare, Colten decided to throw up so back in the car we went to come home. Took him and daddy to the doctor. Colten has RSV and daddy has Influenza A. FUN, FUN!

Add to that, we had a blizzard forecast for Tuesday, and it sure did deliver! I haven't been out and personally measured our snow totals, but we have some drifts that I bet are every bit of 2 feet high.

So, here we are, sick and homebound. I guess it's better to be sick and forced to be home than for the weather to be nice and you want to go out. Still, I will say that taking off all week was not a way that I wanted to use a chunk of my vacation days available for the year.

Colten is still coughing up a lung and has a runny nose, but he is running around and playing so I guess he's not doing too badly. Daddy is achy and miserable, but hanging in there. Temperatures are not supposed to get above freezing all week, so who knows when we will have enough thawing to escape. I'm certain that right now our little Honda Accords would get stuck in the snow before we ever made it out to the road down our 700 feet of driveway.

Colten enjoying his snow day

snow piling up around the sled

drifts to the south of the house

this snow was actually between Colten's
screen and window

Wow! Time flies.

2011-01-27T11:46:00.004-06:00

I realized today that is has been a PROHIBITIVELY long time since I blogged. The holidays got away from us I guess. We very much enjoyed all of the holidays in our neew home with family all around. We have visits from the Cooks (coming from Austin) and Kevin's mother and grandmother (from Tyler and Nashville respectively). Of course, we spent time with all of my local family as well as my mom and stepfather in from Houston. Busy, busy, busy.

Colten had a great time with Christmas this year. He really loved seeing all of the Christmas lights around town, and he was super excited to bake cookies for Santa Claus. Even now, he says when we bake cookies, "Santa Claus cookies?" We aren't really grasping the fact that Santa comes once a year.

We have had a couple of rounds of snow (nothing major), but Colten really loves to look at the snow. It has been brutally cold with lots of wind both times, so we unfortunately haven't really been able to take him out to play in it.

On a random other note, do you like my new background? I chose it to (1) warm me up (it is freezing here) and (2) because it inspires me to hang in there for May when Kevin and I are making a trip to Key West for our 10th wedding anniversary/our best man's wedding. It should be a nice trip. We will be gone for five days/four nights, which will be the longest I have ever been away from Colten. I'm hoping that is not as awful as I fear it will be.

I'm going to do my best to blog more often, even if it is about mundane things. Until then, enjoy some pictures from over the holidays and such.

Like my shades?

Crashed out watching Veggietales

Playing "Colten's games" on my iPhone

I love Melissa & Doug!

2010-11-22T14:24:00.003-06:00

I have to say that I remember enjoying Melissa & Doug toys when I was little. They were great then, and nothing has changed. Colten already has several Melissa & Doug toys and puzzles in his arsenal. So, I was really excited to find out that they are having a contest through 12/2 to win their activity and one of my all-time favorites of their toys, a train set. Go on over and submit your entries. There are lots of chances to win an EXCELLENT toy for your kids!

http://blog.melissaanddoug.com/2010/11/20/giveaway-multi-activity-table-train-set-closes-12210/

So we moved and...

2010-11-21T15:47:00.005-06:00

I really desperately wanted to post pictures of the new house and our getting settled in. Unfortunately, after leaving the rent house, I was without internet access for almost four weeks while the phone company had to lay over 900 feet of phone line to get to the house and then get it installed. We also spent a little over two weeks without TV of any kind. It was nice in a frontier style sort of way, but it was nice to get connected to the real world again.

We are definitely moved in although we still need to get a bed for the spare bedroom and a bigger table for the kitchen (for family nights and holidays and such). Unfortunately, we aren't officially settled into our mortgage. We had an appraiser who provided an estimated value that we (and the bank) thought was too low. We spent almost three weeks attempting to get a new appraisal. Everytime they would call out, somehow this same guy was getting our job although it is supposed to be random. Turns out that there is a database that you get loaded into and then appraisers self assign jobs as they need work. This guy kept pulling ours to...annoy us? upset us? mess with us? Who knows. We finally got a new appraiser who gave us a better value (although still not really what we thought or need), so we should finally close our mortgage the week after Thanksgiving.

Enough with the drama, here is what I know that you all came here to see. Enjoy pics of our new abode! Oh, and maybe one gratuitous one of Colten.

Our (almost) 2 year old boy

kitchen

living area

spare bath

office

spare bedroom

Colten's room

laundry room

looking down the hall from the master

master closet

master tub

master bathroom

master bedroom

from another angle

One week away?

2010-10-09T18:35:00.000-05:00

So, baring any kind of major disaster (or slow up in the process), one week from today we will be moved into the new house. I can't believe how much has been done in the last week. There is still a fair amount to go, but with everything that has gotten done, I have confidence that we will be in there. So exciting for our dream to finally come to fruition.

For now, enjoy some picks of the recent work.

fan up in Colten's room

master bath counter and lights

master shower is almost done

dishwasher installed

back porch light and fan

kitchen backsplash

front door waiting to be installed

cabinet hardware

kitchen countertop

Porches, propane and cleanup

2010-10-03T06:43:00.001-05:00

This past week has brought a lot of changes. The porches are now poured (the posts will go in tomorrow), the propane tank is set and hooked up, and my husband and a coworker of his spent all day yesterday cleaning up the job site around the house so that they can start the dirt work this week in preparation for laying down sod.

This upcoming week, our master shower will be tiled, the granite countertops and kitchen backsplash will be installed, the exterior doors will be put on, door and cabinet hardware will be in, lights and sinks. By the end of this week, it should mostly look like a house that needs to be cleaned up in order to move in to. The shower glass won't be in until the next week, and then, October 16th, we will move in. It is so exciting! For now, enjoy some more pics.

propane tank

front porch

master bath tile waiting to be installed

floor tile in the master shower

master shower

south side yard after cleanup

back porch and pad for the a/c unit

front porch the day it was poured

And just because he's so DARN cute, a gratuitous pic of the bear

Love, Kevin, Summer and Colten

Closer and closer...

2010-09-28T20:20:00.000-05:00

So, every day we are getting closer and closer to realizing our dream. Progress is really coming along on the house. The walls are now painted, cabinets are in, interior doors are hung. This week brings countertop installation, the front and back porches being poured, the master shower and kitchen backsplash being tiled. It's really coming together. If everything stays on track, we should close and move in the weekend of October 15th. Keep your fingers crossed for us! We really want to hit that deadline. For now, enjoy some recent pics.

kitchen

spare bathroom

master bathroom

spare bedroom

Colten's room

Exterior paint and brick is on!

2010-09-18T18:00:00.000-05:00

So, we finally are seeing the outside of the house starting to be completed. The siding and trim paint went on yesterday (Gleaming Tan trimmed in Fields of Green), and the brick was well on its way to being done when we went out to take a peek earlier. The trim is on around the doors and floors inside the house. They have to put shelves up in the master closet and the laundry room on Monday along with the cabinets, and then it will be ready for interior paint. We went out today and settled on granite for all the countertops as well as tile for the kitchen backsplash and master shower. Things are really coming along, and it is so exciting! It's hard to believe that if things stay on pace, we will be moving in right about a month for now. God has truly blessed us beyond measure. :)

exterior paint

Brick

Trim going up!

looking down the hall towards the master

front of the house

Floors are done and painting begins!

2010-09-14T19:07:00.001-05:00

So, if you read my last post, you know that we were a little concerned about being able to save our floors for staining after the drywallers had put up the walls. However, after three 10+ hour days over Labor Day weekend, we were ready to give it a go. I am delighted to say that my husband did an amazing job applying the stain, and, after three coats, it turned out beautifully. It will really be something to see when we polish it, but we aren't going to do that until right before we move in. All in all, I'm happy we did it, but if I ever decide to do it again, I will pay someone. :)

This week, our contractor is actually putting all the trim in the house (baseboards, door trim, etc.) and then the painters will do their thing. The brick guy will show up somewhere late this week or early next week to put the brick on the house. SO EXCITED!!! I will post pictures when I have them. Until then, enjoy the staining!

Master bedroom after the first coat of stain

My handsome boy checking out the floors

After three coats and sealer

Looking good!

A ton of work - but worth the effort!

WALLS!

2010-09-05T09:10:00.001-05:00

It's been a while since I have written anything here. Progress is certainly being made. You can see below that plumbing is in the works and the spare bath has been installed. Most importantly though, last week we got insulation and WALLS! Yes, it looks like a real house. The downside is that, we have this week for cleaning the floors and staining them. When I left the house last weekend, that seemed like it would be a fairly simple task. That was until the drywallers made NO effort to protect the floors at all. If you look closely in the pictures below of the walls, you may notice that our floors are now COVERED in drywall mud and texture. So, we are having to scrape the floors with a scraper to get the worst of it up before we can start scrubbing the floors. Good thing we have a whole week to get this done. Of course, I'll post new pictures once the stain is down. Stay tuned...

Spare bath

Drywall is here!

the living room

master bedroom

Progress continues!

2010-08-15T18:41:00.000-05:00

Progress on the house is really coming along. In the last week, we have completed getting siding on and now we have a roof. Additionally, Kevin and I spent a good chunk of our weekend out there cleaning up the place (inside and out) before the next round begins. Trying to keep from trapping too much dust in the walls. This week will bring the next part of plumbing and electrical. Also, it will hopefully bring brick and the brick mason to put the brick on the outside of the house. It's so exciting to see it coming along and see it looking like a house. Of course, from what I understand, the inside is the real work. Of course, we'll keep you posted.

Back porch

Front of the house

Roofing!

Siding!

It might actually become a house!

2010-08-10T21:40:00.001-05:00

So, after virtually nothing getting done all last week, it is starting to look like a house. The walls are all up, the Tyvek is wrapped, and we await siding and brick. Additionally, most of the roof decking is on so that we will be ready for shingles. It's really cool to see it starting to look like a true home. Of course, the hardest part is yet to come -- from what I understand putting up the structure is the easiest part. Finishing out the interior is the hardest. Stay tuned!

Colten's room

Master bedroom

Looking out the front window

Looking towards the kitchen from the front door

Our house!

Framing

2010-08-08T17:27:00.000-05:00

So...the week of framing didn't go exactly as expected. The company we had originally hired put off starting from Monday to Wednesday to finish a project assuring us they could start Thursday. On Thursday, it was Friday. On Thursday night, when our contractor called to double check and was told maybe Monday or Tuesday, he fired him.

However, he was able to quickly find someone else who could get started on Saturday. The pictures below are the result of one day of framing. They will be back out on Monday, and they say they can be done on Tuesday. If so, we will only be two days behind which is not bad considering the whole week of nothing getting done.

Still, it was exciting to be able to walk around and "see" the rooms. By tomorrow night, it should pretty much look like a house sans probably the roof rafters and decking. We have to go out there to meet with the people about our security system, so I will try to take more pictures to post here. Until then, check out the latest photos:

Lumber

OSB for the walls

Framing in progress

The kitchen pantry

looking down the hall from the master bedroom

Framing starts tomorrow!

2010-08-01T20:51:00.000-05:00

Today was the first trip I have made out to the land since the foundation got poured last week. The prior pictures were taken by Kevin. It was amazing the impact it had on me. We were telling Colten about where the kitchen would be and where his room would be. The enormity of the idea that we were working on our dream hit me and actually brought me to tears. I'm not ashamed to admit that. We have wanted a place with some space that our little boy could grow up and enjoy, and God willing, by mid- to late October, it will come to fruition. Framing starts tomorrow, and I already can't wait to go out next weekend and take more pictures. It will actually kinda look like a house by then. Too exciting!

Standing in my kitchen! :)

Daddy and Colten where the master bath will be

Ever seen an electric meter that reads zeros?

Main pole with the meter by the house

The power poles out to the main road

First, you lay a foundation...

2010-07-29T06:47:00.000-05:00

So, we are really underway now. They came in yesterday morning and poured the concrete for our foundation. So exciting! The lumber pack for framing is due to be delivered Monday, so they should be able to get started on that shortly thereafter. I can't believe how quickly this is coming along. Of course, my understanding is that the part that takes the longest is the inside -- walls, painting, fixtures, floors, cabinets, plumbing, on and on. Still, it's nice to see progress being made...

Progress is being made!

2010-07-22T17:44:00.000-05:00

So, once the loan got done, work on the house has flown by. This week they have gotten the footings for the foundation laid and approved. The plumbing and electric are roughed in. The water line has been run from the street to the house. They come in tomorrow for rebar, etc. to get ready to pour the foundation on Monday or Tuesday next week. It's very exciting! Can't wait to see the foundation poured. I'll be sure to post those pictures when they are available. For now, here is some of the recent progress...

The water line being buried

our driveway ready for heavy equipment

the forms for the foundation

more of the form up

We are super excited and can't wait to get it done. Stay tuned...

And so it begins...

2010-07-16T06:44:00.000-05:00

Well, I haven't written in a while. To be honest, you get in your routine and nothing really exciting happens. You think to yourself, "Who would really care about me saying -- everything is the same as always?" Maybe that's the wrong perspective to have, but when nothing too noteworthy is going on, you don't really think about your blog. Of course, with Colten growing like a weed, I should probably post more often anyway, and I will try to post some pictures of him on a new blog within a few days.

Today....today I want to talk about something exciting that is now going on in our lives. We broke ground yesterday for our new house on our land....finally! This little doozie came out and started digging and moving dirt.

Our contractor, Zac, came out and posted the permit sign and his sign. It's really official!

This is looking down from where the house is going to be at the dirt being pushed and dug for our pond.

Here is our driveway being dug out from the road to the house.

And here is the house pad. I have had to adjust as it looks so small to me, even in person. I have to keep reminding myself that the house won't be any smaller than the one in Hurst and that it looks tiny because there is all that land around it with nothing to give it perspective.

Of course, this is just the beginning. We will make a trip to the land once or twice a week to see how things are going and take pictures to keep everyone posted on progress. Right now, the construction timeline has us able to close and start moving by October 15. Of course, it is construction, so we will see how that goes. For now, we are praying for no rain (or at least rain to avoid the land) for about the next two weeks until they can get the dirt work done and the slab poured and set up.

Stay tuned.....

Our plans

2010-05-05T20:38:00.000-05:00

Well, after all this time, we are finally looking into getting started building our home on our land. We have filled out paperwork for a construction loan, and we are talking to a guy that we go to church with about GC'ing the project. It's scary, nervewrecking, and exciting all at once. I will surely keep you posted as we go along.

Other than that, we took Colten to the zoo for the first time a couple of weekends ago. It was a last minute decision so we were only there for about an hour, but he really seemed to enjoy it. We have plans to go again this Saturday with my sister, brother-in-law, nephew, and my mom while she is in town for Mother's Day. The weather is supposed to be beautiful, and I'm really looking forward to the two boys interacting with each other in such a fun environment. I'll try to remember to take plenty of pictures.

Colten picked up some kind of 24 hour stomach bug last weekend. No fun, but he is fully recovered now and as boisterous as ever. He definitely keeps me on my toes all the time, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Here are few recent pics of my darling boy!

Sitting in his big boy chair

Hanging out on my grandparents' porch

Checking out the goose at the zoo

Love his profile - looking at the elephants

I'm suddenly the mother of a boy, not a baby.

2010-04-11T20:36:00.000-05:00

It has been too long since I have posted. It seems that, now that we are close to family, we stay very busy. Jobs are going well, and we are looking into reapplying for financing to start building on the land. Life is great here and, while we miss our Texas friends, we are enjoying being Okies.

As for Colten, I came to the realization this week that he somehow became a little boy in the last couple of months. I love that he is trying so hard to talk and to be independent with everything he does. Yet, part of me mourns for the fact that he is not my baby boy anymore (yes, I know he will always be my baby - but you know what I mean). Still, it is amazing to watch him grow and learn and I constantly marvel at how much more he "gets" every day. Here are a few recent pics of my little boy, including his first Easter that he went hunting for eggs. Hope everyone is doing well!

Playing outside

Hanging out with Cayden after the Easter egg hunt

Gathering eggs

This egg talked (my mom got it at Walgreens) and he thought it was funny!

Handsome boy dressed up for Easter

It's been a while...

2010-02-02T08:37:00.000-06:00

since I have posted anything on our blog. I should be ashamed. Life got crazy over the holidays spending time with family and snowed in under SEVERAL inches of snow Christmas Eve. Then, I started a new job the first Monday in January working for Avis/Budget Group. Colten went back to daycare (which he has finally adjusted to - I think he got spoiled to being home with mom). We have just been going and going. We placed membership at my old home church, Park Plaza, here in town and are really enjoying making new friends and getting involved. It's also really great to be near family and be able to spend time with them.

Colten is getting so big. He started walking the week of Thanksgiving and has never looked back. I think he would be running all over the house right now if he could get his feet to keep up with him. He is truly a delight every day, and he reminds me to thank God for how blessed I am. I'll have to post some updated pics of him later.

For now, it's off to work I go. Hope everyone is doing well. I'll try to get back on the bandwagon of writing more frequently.

Rest of the house pics and some Colten ones too

2009-11-27T20:05:00.000-06:00

Playing at GG and Pappy's:

Colten and Cayden at lunch:

Watching the planes at the airport:

Master bedroom:

Colten's room:

We are truly Okies now!

2009-11-27T19:54:00.001-06:00

Our first week in Oklahoma has been a whirlwind. I had an interview on Monday (that I think went really well, but we'll see this coming week). We spent Tuesday and Wednesday finishing setting up our new bank accounts, registering our vehicles, and getting our new driver's licenses. Then, we spent yesterday and GG and Pappy's for Thanksgiving. Ate too much, let the boys play together. All in all, it was a great day. Unfortunately, Kevin's grandfather passed away yesterday, and he is now in Tennessee for the funeral.

So, like I said, busy, busy, busy. That's all I have the energy for now. I'll include some pics of the inside of our adorable rent house below. :) (and in another post because I couldn't insert anymore pics).

Bathroom:

Living Room looking towards the front door:

Living room looking towards the kitchen:

Kitchen:

Dining room/office looking towards the deck out back:

The time draws near

2009-11-15T19:13:00.000-06:00

Well, I was saddened to have a cold (or something of that nature) put me "under the weather" this weekend, as I had hoped that Colten and I could go to church in Grapevine one last time before the move. Unfortunately, it just didn't work out and so my chance to say goodbye to so many in person has passed. To each of you, thank you so much for the love and friendship you have shown us in the five years we have lived here. It has been great to meet you, enjoy good times together, grow together. We will miss you dearly. Hopefully, we will have a chance to come back and visit now and again. If any of you are ever in Tulsa, look us up. We'd love to see you then too.

As for the move itself, I can't believe it is already here. This will be my last week working for Southwest as no opportunities are available for me to continue my employment with them in Tulsa. I am on the prowl for a new job, and I have an interview lined up for the Monday right after we move (nothing like cramming it all in right). I am flying Colten to Tulsa on Thursday as my sister and GG have volunteered to watch him Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. That is great for us because it will mean we don't have to worry about what he needs while we finish packing, load the truck, and make a five hour drive. That's the plan basically. Kevin is flying home on Friday afternoon. We will go pick up the Uhaul and the neighbors are helping us load. Then, as soon as the apartment people walk through with us on Saturday morning (when they open at 10), we will hit the road.

It's been a wild ride, but we are both looking forward to starting our new chapter in Tulsa. Please stay in touch friends. I will try to keep the blog updated as Colten grows and once we finally start building our house. Until next time, know that we love you and miss you already.

The time is drawing near...

2009-10-15T15:37:00.000-05:00

So, we've been kinda out of touch, but big things are looming in Cook-land. Kevin has been blessed with a job that will take us to our planned destination....Tulsa. He is finishing up some training here in Dallas, but his first day on the job in Tulsa is November 2nd. He will move up there on Halloween. Colten and I will follow on November 21st at the end of our current lease. I still don't know for sure what my job situation holds. Our Department is nearing the ability to work from home, but as some details aren't ironed out yet, I haven't been given a 100% yea or nay yet. So, my future with Southwest is all that hangs in the balance for our move.

Fortunately, after a weekend of searching, we found an adorable little rent house. It will serve our needs while we build the house out on our land (which I promise to blog about for posterity).

Anyway, the news has been slowly circulating, and since we have been on the go, go, go since this all started we haven't been at church in Grapevine to share with all those folks. Promise we will make it back at least once before we move.

On a side note, any help we can get loading the rental truck late on November 20th would be great. More to come. Stay tuned....

9 months and growing!

2009-09-17T21:50:00.000-05:00

Well, my baby boy is getting bigger by the day. He had his 9 month well visit on Wednesday and measured out at 29.75 inches and 21 lbs 10 oz. He crawls faster than I can keep up with and is a professional "cruiser." He is starting to cruise with one hand and is braving the occasional standing with no hands. He eats more than I can keep up with -- some nights between dinner and his last bottle, he'll consume 12-19 oz of food--and that's ONE meal! I was really worried he was being overfed but the doctor said he is growing perfectly and could even use a few more calories, etc. if I can pack it in somewhere. My real question was, "You mean if I can afford it?" :)

Kevin is still on the job hunt. He is looking here and in Tulsa. Of course, while the Tulsa idea is nice as it would put us one step closer to the land, it means I would probably have to look for a new job so I have mixed emotions. Anyway, if anyone hears of any sales positions open out there, let him know!

Not much else to say for now. I really need to try to be a better blogger but I admit I fall short. If you want to keep up with our day-to-day life, you are better off checking my Facebook page or following me on Twitter! Until next time, here are some recent Colten pics.

Long time, no write

2009-08-15T09:50:00.000-05:00

So, yeah, I haven't been the best blogger in the world. Considering it's been about a month since I last communicated with any of you. Sorry! No, we haven't fallen off the face of the earth, just staying busy as we Cook's do. Colten is now 8 months old. We've finally gotten crawling on all fours (instead of just an army crawl) down. We are also pulling up on the furniture and starting to cruise. We have one tooth completely through on the bottom and the one next to it as well as the two on the top are well on their way. We are really starting to babble and "mama" is our favorite sound -- yay for me!

Kevin is back on the prowl for a job after taking a stand with the company he was working for.
We'll just say that they disagreed about how they were doing business, and I'm proud of him for the decision he made.

We are still working on our plans for moving to Tulsa but keep getting stalled out on that. Maybe one day it will all work out.

That's about it for now...until next time, here are a few recent Colten pics. :)

Update on Kevin

2009-07-17T18:57:00.000-05:00

Well, things aren't over yet, but Kevin seems to have been feeling better the last couple of days. We saw the neurologist on Wednesday and found out his MRI was clear. They did some other assessments in office and decided it is probably viral as well. He has been put on some additional meds that seem to be helping. Hopefully, we are seeing the end of it, but prayers would still be good. I'll update any changes. Thanks to everyone for the well wishes and prayers we have received. They have really meant the world to us.

Prayers for Kevin

2009-07-10T20:07:00.000-05:00

How do you make a long story short? We went to Northwest Arkansas to visit my family for my aunt and uncle's big fireworks/BBQ shindig over 4th of July weekend. Things seemed fine. We had a good drive up, did some swimming, dinner at my grandparents, and then to bed at the hotel. Around 6 a.m. Saturday morning, when the baby woke up, I got out of bed. Kevin was going to get up as well but stated that he felt nauseous and very dizzy. I got him a bottle of water and told him to just lay there for a little bit. A bit later, I heard banging in the back of the hotel room. Kevin had stumbled his way to the bathroom, banging into walls, and was now vomiting violently. He proceeded to lay on the tile bathroom floor for the next 8 hours. About 2 o'clock, we made an attempt to get him back to bed. When he moved (crawling on the floor), he again became violently ill and, after witnessing him vomit up more than he had put down all day, I called 911. They took him to the local emergency room where he was diagnosed with severe vertigo. They ran a CT scan that came back clear. They did a chest xray that came back clear. He ended up being admitted for 2 days until he was somewhat stable enough to handle the almost 6 hour trip back home.

Tuesday evening, we followed up with our local doctor's office. That day, he had also developed double vision when he would lay on his side. As a result, they did bloodwork that we are waiting to hear back about. Additionally, he has an MRI scheduled for Monday with a followup with a neurologist on Wednesday. He has been unable to leave the apartment all week because if he moves, he gets dizzy. As long as he pretty much sits or lays around, he is somewhat ok.

Please pray for us as we go through these tests and find out what the results may be. We are both tired, worried, and frustrated. They originally thought it was a viral issue, but since it does not seem to be getting any better, they are no longer sure. I keep hoping that, since it came on so quickly, it will go away just as suddenly, but who knows. We appreciate your thoughts and prayer.

Water Baby

2009-06-28T07:39:00.001-05:00

So, I should have blogged about this a while back since he is now a pro, but our baby boy LOVES swimming in the pool. The very first time we took him, it took him a few minutes to figure it out. Once he realized he could splash though, he was ready. Now, we've also gotten him a cool floaty with a sunshade so that we can stay out longer. Summer fun is here! Enjoy the pics!

Our land

2009-06-14T14:47:00.000-05:00

also thought I would throw together a little post with some pictures of our land in Oklahoma. The road out to the back side of the land (where the house will be -- approx 700 feet back) has been started although not completed. Everytime they get ready to go out and finish, it rains again. We wait for it to dry out and the situation just repeats. :) Still, it means we are one step closer to living our dream.

It's been too long...

2009-06-14T14:41:00.000-05:00

again since I've written anything. Colten is 6 months old now, and every day is something new. We've gotten very good at sitting up on our own. We've been a power roller for a while and are right on the verge of crawling. We can get up on hands and knees, even rock, but no forward motion yet. We've even started learning how to use a sippy cup. I can't believe how big he's getting. We had a doctor's appointment last week and measured out at 28 inches and 18.5 lbs. My big boy!

Life is never dull

2009-05-21T20:54:00.001-05:00

And boy does it keep you busy sometimes. Life has been rolling along for us. Colten is now eating any baby food we put in front of him (nothing gets rejected) and is sleeping through the night regular. Boy is that nice! I wish I had more to add, but nothing much else exciting is going on. We are just taking it all in and watching our boy grow every day. Enjoy some recent pics!

He got food on his hands then decided to rub his eyes.

What a ham!

With Aunt Megan and Cousin Cayden before graduation

It's been a while...

2009-04-25T19:53:00.000-05:00

since I posted anything here. Life has been crazy for us with the usual...lots of traveling, child keeping us busy. Nothing in particular. Just busy. Colten continues to practice his rolling over. He seems to really want to crawl as, once on his stomach, he tries to bend his legs under him and push off. We've tried some cereal from a spoon. He's not really sure about that, so we have been trying some in a bottle to get him used to the taste and thicker consistency. Teething has definitely begun with all of the drooling and everything in the mouth and being chewed on. Also, we have started blowing bubbles at him, and he thinks that is the funniest thing. Busy, busy, busy. No way to post all of the recent pics here without totally wearing you (and Blogger) out so here are links to a few of my Facebook albums with current ones.

Colten at 4 months: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=105406&id=501437993&l=3c1caa54e1

Easter weekend trip: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=103850&id=501437993&l=0fd42edb32

During Easter, Kevin and some of the family helped my grandparents clean up around their place from the horrible ice storm they had earlier in the year: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=103856&id=501437993&l=6797df7fba

I'll try to be better about posting sooner in the future.

Houston...we have rollover!

2009-04-06T19:54:00.000-05:00

Colten had a big weekend. On Sunday, we discovered real laughing and rolled over (back to stomach) for the first time. The pic of him on his stomach is right after it happened. I don't think he really knew what to think and so far hasn't repeated, but I'm hopeful.

We are headed to Tulsa and NW Arkansas for Easter weekend. We hope everyone has a great Easter.

Just some recent pics

2009-04-04T08:59:00.000-05:00

Since last week, we haven't been up to much. Just hanging around the house. We are actually getting to enjoy a weekend at home before we run off and start traveling again. Never a dull moment in the Cook household. Meanwhile, here's some random pics from this week.

Overnight with the grandparents

2009-03-30T09:14:00.001-05:00

So, Colten and I ventured to Austin this weekend to meet up with daddy and the grandparents. On my way into town, I dropped Colten off with Pops and Granny Annie (my husband's parents) to spend the night. Yes, it was my first overnight away from the baby. While it was hard to drive away, Kevin and I ended up having a very nice evening and the world did not come to an end. In fact, the grandparents are thinking we should do it once a month. We'll see about that. For now, here are some random photos from the weekend.

First flight

2009-03-23T18:26:00.001-05:00

Well, we did it! Colten took his first flight on Friday from here to Tulsa to see the family for the weekend. He did GREAT! Following great advice, I fed him a bottle during takeoff. He fell asleep shortly thereafter and didn't even wake up when we landed. He is such a good baby! Here are a few pics of the trip including one with his first boarding pass aboard the LUV airline.

Tummy time and travel

2009-03-17T20:56:00.001-05:00

Well, as usual, the Cooks are staying busy. Colten is getting ready for his first airplane ride this weekend as we head to Tulsa to see family and start working on the land in preparation of building. I'm really excited about it but kinda nervous too. If anyone has flown with babies this small, I'd love advice.

In the meantime, here are some pictures of my darling boy working on his tummy time today.

3 months

2009-03-10T20:35:00.001-05:00

I can't believe how fast he is growing up! Here's my sweet boy at 3 months.

He's getting so big!

2009-03-05T19:21:00.000-06:00

Tested out the Bumbo this week. He loves it! Wasn't sure what to think at first, but then when we took him out of it, he cried. Hopefully, this will help provide time for his hair to grow back in on the bald spot on the back of his head. :)

Back to Work

2009-03-04T14:07:00.000-06:00

So, I went back to work this week. Leaving Colten at daycare on Monday was probably one of the hardest things I have ever done; I cried the whole way to work. Luckily, I work with a really great group of people who kept me laughing and made the day go by quickly. When I picked him up, the daycare director said he did great, and that made me feel a little better. Tuesday was a little easier, but then today I was a mess again. All the moms I work with assure me it will get better. I hope so....

Pure chaos

2009-02-26T12:11:00.001-06:00

I forgot how crazy and stressful it is to move. After 3.5 great years, the house is finally sold (well, it will be after closing later today), and we are in the midst of packing our 1900 square foot house for a move into a 950 square foot apartment. All I can say is, good thing that half our stuff or better is already in storage in Tulsa pending our move there hopefully by the end of the year. On top of making this move on Saturday, I go back to work and Colten goes to his first day of daycare on Monday. Pray for us! And, remember, if you have time Saturday, feel free to come on over and help with the move. We plan to start around 9:00 a.m.

I don't know what I did....

2009-02-12T18:13:00.000-06:00

but it's done. Tired of feeling frumpy with long hair that I only ever pulled up, I braved the waters of a cut and style. I visited Mouton's Salon, based on several recommendations, and met my friend Melanie's stylist, Kelly. I showed her a pic I had found online of what I kinda wanted to do. When all was said and done, we realized it kinda looks like Melanie's style. Thus, it was dubbed "The Melanie." I still haven't decided how I feel about it, but I am sure I will love it in the end. Thanks for the recommendation Melanie! Hope you don't mind me kinda stealing your 'do.

Encore

2009-02-11T17:12:00.001-06:00

Here is Colten's video encore...this time it actually has sound! :)

College gear

2009-02-08T20:03:00.001-06:00

Shortly after Colten was born, we emailed our alumni association to tell them the news (because they send monthly emails with goings-on, etc.). Well, imagine our surprise when we recently received a darling t-shirt for him in the mail. Looks like Colten can start planning his college career already. Go Bison!

Web cam fun

2009-02-04T19:56:00.000-06:00

Kevin's grandparents got us a webcam for Christmas/birthdays so that we could chat online with them and whomever else. So, Colten and I were playing with it this morning. Apparently it also records video although I can't determine why this video has no sound as of yet. Nevertheless, I must share it b/c he is still cute even without sound.

On the hunt...

2009-02-03T20:17:00.000-06:00

for an apartment. Yep, you read that right. It looks like our house is actually going to sell. We are in the option period through Friday, but after that, it should be a done deal with us closing on the 27th. So, because things are not ready for us to move to Tulsa just yet, we are looking for an apartment to live in for at least the next 6 months. The search has been a little frustrating so far because we have to have a garage for Kev's Makita stuff, but I am sure we will find something. Then, the challenge will be packing and moving with a newborn before I go back to work on March 2nd. Wish us luck!

I'll never get a word in edgewise...

2009-01-26T10:29:00.000-06:00

when he actually does start talking. Right now, he already has so much to say to me, daddy, his teddy bear, whoever will listen. Here are some pics of him cuddling with the teddy bear as well as talking to him and me. So adorable!

Hair help!

2009-01-24T15:46:00.000-06:00

I am looking for help ladies! I need to get a haircut and want to actually try a style which means I want a real salon instead of a SuperCuts or something. I'm sure someone has a suggestion about a stylist they use or a salon so give me some help. Somewhere in the HEB/NRH/Grapevine/Southlake area would be great. Also, I can't afford a ton so if your stylist charges more than $30-40ish for a haircut only (no color, etc.), he/she is out of my league. Thanks again for any help/suggestions.

He's growing up fast...

2009-01-22T09:54:00.000-06:00

So, I laid Colten in his crib the other day while I was working on stuff in the nursery. I heard him start cooing and gurgling so I grabbed the camera and took a peek. Apparently, he was having a long conversation with the teddy bear. Guess he got mom and dad's gift of gab. Too cute!

He's my angel!

Smiles and giggles

2009-01-20T14:46:00.001-06:00

Colten has officially started smiling, cooing and giggling. I can't tell you how much I love it! If you are a parent (especially a mother), then you probably understand better than anyone. Just thought I would share!

More Colten

2009-01-14T12:04:00.001-06:00

Just because I never get tired of looking at pics of him! (Sorry if you do -- it's new mother syndrome -- I'm sure it will wear off)

Tulsa trip

2009-01-08T19:16:00.000-06:00

Our trip to Tulsa to see my family was great. Colten got to meet cousins, aunts and an uncle, grandparents, and great-grandparents. We had a lot of fun showing him off to everyone plus I got to see my sister for the firsrt time since we had our babies and finally meet my nephew in person. I have attached various pics from our trip (including some gratuitous ones of just Colten because I can't help myself).

Cousin James (my cousin Koree's son), Colten, and Cousin Cayden

So cute in my Pooh Bear hat

meeting Cayden

Colten and Aunt Megan

Colten with Aunt Autumn (holding him) and GG (Grandma Gray)

napping in his first hotel bed

with great-grandma Mary

napping with daddy

First bath

2008-12-30T17:35:00.000-06:00

So, yesterday we braved the waters and made our first foray into the world of baths. Overall, he did really well except for the hairwashing part (which I pretty much expected). There's nothing like that clean baby smell. Afterwards, he was very happy and content, and he and Daddy enjoyed some snuggling time. He sure does love his Daddy! Here are some pics from the event.

We are headed to Tulsa this weekend for a few days. It will give my sisters and grandparents a chance to finally meet Colten plus he and his cousin, Cayden, can meet each other too. I'm sure I will have plenty of pics to post after the trip. Until then, Happy New Year's to everyone. If you get a chance on Friday, send Kevin some Happy 30th Birthday wishes! (kbc1279@hotmail.com)

Ssshhhh.... don't tell....

2008-12-27T17:19:00.000-06:00

but I was able to get pics of Santa! Hope you and your families had a very Merry Christmas!

Also, since his cousin is destined to be an OU fan, it is only fitting that Tee-Taw made sure Colten was appropriately outfitted based on Kevin's team of choice. I guess they will have their own Red River Rivalry. Of course, my sister and I are Arkansas fans, so I need to find him some appropriate fan gear.

Colten's first doctor's appointment

2008-12-22T17:03:00.001-06:00

Doctor's appointment went great today. My 8 lb 5 oz baby who weighed 8 lbs 0.3 oz when we left the hospital a week and half ago now weighs 9 lbs! He's also grown 1 1/4 inches to be 21 3/4 inches long now. The doctor gave him a glowing review, and we don't have another visit until 2 months when they start sticking him with needles.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone!

Because I couldn't resist...

2008-12-21T08:13:00.000-06:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Merry Christmas everyone!

Adjusting

2008-12-18T10:35:00.000-06:00

We are slowly but surely adjusting to life with a newborn in the house. Some nights have been pretty good (other than being up every 2-3 hours to feed him) and some nights, like last night, not as good, but we are hanging in there. We have 2 week doctor's appointments for both he and I next week and that will be our first real excursion out into the real world -- just Colten and mommy. I'm a little intimidated, but I am sure we will do just fine. Then, on Wednesday, we hit the road for our first road trip to Georgetown to see the grandparents, uncles and great-grandma for Christmas. We are only going to be gone a couple of days, but I am already worried that I will surely forget many things that he needs. Oh well, that's part of the learning experience I guess. At least Wal-Mart isn't too far away....

Until then, Colten, Kevin, and I wish you and your families a Merry Christmas! Here are some gratuitous pics just because I can't get enough of him.

First checkup

2008-12-14T16:32:00.001-06:00

We had our first checkup today back at the hospital in order to check his weight and his jaundice level. His jaundice numbers were up a little bit, but each day he is older, the more tolerant that level is so he got a passing grade there. He has also put on weight since we left the hospital so we know he is doing ok. The first two nights at home haven't been TOO bad. Of course, it is not a good night's sleep like I was used to in the past but I haven't had one of those since early in my pregnancy anyway. Besides, he is more than worth it. I'll leave it at that and just share some pics of my darling. The first is just because he is too darn sweet when he is sleeping. The second is him all dolled up for pictures in his first Christmas outfit.

We're home!

2008-12-12T16:17:00.000-06:00

We finally got clean bills of health and got to come home today. We dressed Colten up in his first real outfit and loaded him up in his carseat. We got checked out by the nurses, loaded him in the truck, and we were on our way.

Colten in his seat

Riding home

We got home and took a pic with the baby in front of the house. Then, we took him inside. It was fun to watch our cat, Munchkin, try to decide what she thought about the baby. She still isn't sure, but has taken to sleep in the basket on the bottom of the bassinet.

So, we are just settling into the idea of having a newborn in the house. So far, he has transitioned very well. Now, we just have to survive the first night. If you wanna come by and see him, give us a call. We would love to see everyone!

He's here!

2008-12-09T20:10:00.001-06:00

Well, we were induced at 7:00 a.m. on Monday morning. By 1:00 p.m., they checked me out and I was fully dilated. We tried pushing for a little while, but his heartrate was dipping. So, they had me rest and labor down for while. We tried pushing again, and he was doing better, but my doctor had concerns. After some discussion, we decided it would be better for the baby if we went ahead and had him delivered by c-section. So, they prepped me, wheeled me back, and within minutes, he was here. He came out screaming perfectly. His Apgar's were a 9/9. He weighed 8 lbs 5 ozs and was 20 1/2 inches long. His head circumference was 14 centimeters.

It was a long day and a lot of work, but we are so glad he is here. He is in the NICU right now because he is a wee bit jaundiced and they are putting him under the lights. We will go home either tomorrow or Thursday from what I am being told. We are so excited for him to get to meet everyone soon. Thanks for all of your well wishes and support.

40 weeks +

2008-12-06T18:37:00.000-06:00

Here we are at 40 weeks and 1 day. Just waiting on Colten. I figured we should take one more pic as a last hurrah before he comes for sure on Monday. Still can't believe the end is really in sight. I'm suddenly very intimidated at the idea of being a parent, but I'm sure I will learn just as women have for centuries before me.

Pics of my nephew

2008-12-05T11:27:00.000-06:00

Well, my sister is doing well and actually gets to go home from the hospital today. She has finally shared some photos of my nephew, Larry Cayden, so that I can show him off, so here he is. Enjoy!

So, here's the deal...

2008-12-04T13:39:00.000-06:00

Saw the doctor this morning. Still no real progress. She worked some "magic" (I use that in the loosest of terms -- it wasn't much fun) that she said causes most women to go into labor within 72 hours. If that doesn't work though, we are scheduled to induce Monday morning at 6:30 a.m. We'll keep everyone posted.

Larry Cayden is here!

2008-12-04T07:40:00.000-06:00

Well, my sister was induced yesterday morning at 6 a.m. After roughly 13 hours and not enough progress, they decided to take Cayden via c-section. So, I don't know the exact time, but sometime before 8 o'clock last night, our family welcomed Larry Cayden Addington into the world. He weighed 6 lbs 1 oz and was 19 3/4 inches long. Such a tiny little thing but he was healthy and screaming up a storm my mother said.

So congrats to Robin and Josh! We love Cayden already, and I can't wait until I get a chance to meet him.

As for me, I was supposed to have a doctor's appointment yesterday. After getting in and going through all the steps of getting ready for the doctor, her nurse came in and told us she was caught at the hospital in an emergency c-section for twins. I was rescheduled for 9 a.m. today so we will see what she (hopefully) says then. I can't do this for another week. It's time.

A twinge of jealousy

2008-12-02T08:10:00.000-06:00

So my sister (the one pregnant and due 3 days after me) had her 39 week appointment yesterday. After her visit, she gave me a call. Since she has made zero progress in the last few weeks towards having a baby, her doctor has decided to induce her. She will be admitted to the hospital this evening for her Cervadil(?) and then they will start the Pitocin tomorrow AM. So, miserable as I am, I will admit a twinge of jealousy that the end is in sight for her. On the same note, I have heard induced labor tends to be much more intense, so I don't envy her that.

I have another doctor's appointment tomorrow. I haven't made any progress the last two weeks, but maybe we will have made some now. I'm just so anxious to meet my baby boy. Meanwhile, say a prayer for my sister if you get a chance that she and my sweet nephew, Cayden, come through everything safe, sound, and healthy.

And we just keep going and going....

2008-11-25T07:46:00.000-06:00

So, another doctor's appointment yesterday and....still no change from two weeks ago. I'm trying to be patient but failing rapidly. It wouldn't be so bad if he would let me sleep or if I could get comfortable. Oh well, it's all part of the fun and I'm getting closer (at least that's what they keep telling me). My next appointment is next Wednesday (12/3) at which point I am told we will discuss options for if he is late. Everyone send Colten subliminal messages that it's time to come meet everyone.

Family headed to our house for Thanksgiving since I'm not traveling this year. Hope everyone has happy holidays and safe travel if you are hitting the road. :)

38 Weeks

2008-11-22T17:19:00.001-06:00

Well, here we are at 38 weeks. I have really started counting down the days. If you ask me, I will tell you that he can come anytime he wants, and that's kinda true. Really though, if he needs to hang out in there and bake until he's actually due, then that's the way it will be, and I'm okay with that too. Nothing much else going on than that. I have another doctor's appointment on Monday morning, so we will see what (if anything) has changed by then.

No news....

2008-11-17T18:55:00.000-06:00

So, another doctor's appointment today. I was kinda disheartened to find out that I haven't made any further progress since last week. I guess I just need to be patient, but that sure is a challenge for me. Oh well. I guess we will just hang in there and wait to see what next week holds. Patience is a virtue right?

36 weeks...making progress

2008-11-10T19:06:00.000-06:00

Here we are at 36 weeks (+ a little). Getting closer every day. Saw the doctor today and was surprised to learn I have already started dilating. Crazy, scary, and exciting all at once! Colten will be here before we know it, and, despite labor, I can hardly wait! Now, if only I could get a good nights sleep sometime soon...maybe...

Election 2008 and other fun

2008-11-04T17:56:00.000-06:00

Is it just me or is full-time, nonstop election coverage annoying? Do I really need to see every individual vote as it comes in? Oh well. At least it is only every 4 years. Hope everyone got out and voted though. It's important!

We had a childbirth class on Saturday. I truly believe now what they say about knowing being half the battle. Now that I know more about how labor et al works, I'm less intimidated by it. I guess that's a good thing since I don't have much choice now. :)

Meanwhile, we had two different showings of our house over the weekend. We haven't heard any feedback, but I at least find it reassuring that people are interested. We must be doing a little something right.

36 week pics and such to come this weekend.

Getting closer

2008-10-26T19:14:00.001-05:00

Well, last weekend, we made a whirlwind trip to Tulsa. The main goal was to watch my next to the youngest sister, Megan, march at the football game. She's a Senior, and I wanted to see her one more time. Unfortunately, because of it being Fall Break (and therefore a lack of people), the marching didn't pan out. But then, on Saturday, I got to be there for Robin's (my pregnant sister) baby shower. It was fun to have us all together. Here is a pic of the group with me at the left, Autumn, Megan, and Tina (Meg's and Autumn's mom) with Robin front and center (like she should have been).
Then, we hurried home Saturday night so that I could be in town for the wonderful shower that several of the girls at church threw for me. Thanks to everyone for the wonderful gifts and for putting it together. Thanks especially to Melanie for offering up her house for the shindig. It was a really great time. Here is a pic of me and a buddy from college, Jamie, at the shower.
This weekend, we took a trip to Athens to see Kevin's next to the youngest brother, Ryley, march with the Tyler Junior College Apache Band. It was great to see them, and we had a good time at the game. After that, we drove on to Yantis to spend the night with Bill and Norma and just enjoy some country time. Here is a pic of Kevin and I with his mom, Konni, and his brother, Ryley.
Finally, here is a pic of me at 34 weeks. Getting bigger everyday. I still get amazed by that. Only 6 weeks to go if he decides to hang out to the end. I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow just to continue to check our progress. My mom is flying in Tuesday to see me for the evening and all of Wednesday, and I can hardly wait!

32 weeks and counting...

2008-10-14T18:53:00.000-05:00

Well, here is my latest photo. 32 weeks. I can't hardly believe that there is only 8 weeks left to go (and that is if he doesn't decide to come early!). There are days that it seems like we just found out and this has gone by so quickly. Then I have days that I can't believe I have to still wait another 8 weeks.

One thing I have thought about lately is how excited I am to finally meet him and get to hug and kiss him, but then part of me is selfish and likes to feel him move around in there and will miss that. Is that normal?

On a random side note, I was sad to see Misty May-Treanor injured and unable to finish the DWTS season. However, I must admit that I have become a huge Warren Sapp fan. He is my current pic and fave. We will see what happens.

Well, until next time, if anyone knows someone looking for a 4 bed/2 bath home in the Hurst area, send them my way.

Daycare options

2008-10-05T22:20:00.000-05:00

I thought I had picked a daycare out, but now I am not so sure. I know a lot of you are stay at home moms, but if anyone has any suggestions about a good daycare somewhere in the HEB area, I could really use the help. Time is running out! :{

Just a brief rant....

2008-10-01T17:58:00.000-05:00

about Dancing with the Stars. I can't say that I was sad to see Kim go home last night, but I think that if I have to put up with one more week of Cloris, I may have to watch the show on mute. As an aside, Warren Sapp is growing on me. I may have to change up my support altogether. Decisions, decisions. Anyone else have thoughts?

Good weekend

2008-09-29T18:45:00.001-05:00

Well, we had a great whirlwind weekend in Tulsa. The land closing went smoothly, and, while the next step is still uncertain, I am glad to have it over and done with.

While there, I went to witness one of my best girlfriends from high school get married. The weather was perfect, the setting was amazing, and she looked beautiful. Best wishes Melissa and Benjamin!

After celebrating one wedding, I was excited to come back home and read on Melanie's blog today that Chris and Mindy finally got engaged! Congrats you two! We can't wait to celebrate your big day with you too.

Dancing with the Stars

2008-09-24T18:29:00.000-05:00

Ok, in the last few seasons, I have joined the Dancing with the Stars love. I have to make a comment about last nights performance (which I just now watched -- yay for DVR). Did anyone else feel incredibly bad for Kim K. dancing to "Baby Got Back?" Plus, it was awkward. Poor girl! If she survives this time around, hopefully they won't give her anything that bad again....

On the other hand, I am already trying to pick my favorite, but I am torn. My early support goes to....Misty May-Treanor or

Susan Lucci
I like them both for different reasons. I guess we will see who wins out.

Baby Showers and getting bigger

2008-09-20T08:54:00.000-05:00

Well, I had a doctor's appointment this week. The results of my glucose screening came back perfectly so we are rolling right along. My next three visits are with the other doctors in the practice so that I have met everyone who may deliver the baby. Meanwhile, here's a pic of me at 29 weeks. Only 11 weeks to go!

This week also brought my first baby shower hosted by my girlfriends at work. It was called the "Mustaches and Monocles Baby Shower," and suffice it to say, the source of that is a long story. Still, it was way over the top, we had a great time and good laughs, and Colten hauled in some good gifts. Here are some pics of it just for fun. We are headed to Tulsa next weekend to close on a piece of land we are buying and to attend a wedding. I guess I'll write more then.

Pic with the creepy baby from the cake

The cake

My girls who put the whole thing together

Some cute outfits and a mustache

Just because...

2008-09-17T06:32:00.000-05:00

I haven't written in a while. After Silver Dollar City and a week back at work, I flew to my grandparents house to spend the weekend. We didn't do much, but that was kinda the idea. It was just good to see them and spend some down time with them and my husband.

This week, I have a doctor's appointment and a baby shower at work. I'm really looking forward to the shower becuase I work with some quirky people (and I must count myself among them), so the theme is crazy and it should be a lot of fun. We are actually home this weekend (as of now), hoping to put up crown moulding in the living room and entry way. The friend that was gonna help us though may not be able to, so that plan may get postponed.

Then, the next weekend, we are headed back to Tulsa for a wedding. It seems like it never ends. I'm getting to pregnant and tired to do all of this traveling though. I feel it coming to an end shortly (for a while at least).

On the baby front, Colten is a very active boy and rarely do I get a moments peace from kicking, rolling and pushing. Of course, I wouldn't have it any other way! :) As a side note, we still can't decide on a middle name for him. Any suggestions?

Silver Dollar City

2008-09-08T19:03:00.001-05:00

Well, I survived Silver Dollar City. I had forgotten how steep the hills you have to walk around on are so by the end of the day, my back was killing me but everyone came through okay (including the babies). We had a great time despite a soggy start. It was fun to get to spend some time with my sisters. After we got done in Branson, we drove to my grandparents house to spend the night. We had a good time seeing them and a couple of cousins (including one who is pregnant and due about a month before my sister and I). There are just babies everywhere. I flew home last night and pretty much collapsed, exhausted from the weekend but happy to have done it. I am flying back to my grandparents house this weekend to get to spend some real time with them and enjoy some R&R. Plus, it allows me to catch up with Kevin who is working in Arkansas this week. More to come later. For now, enjoy pics from this weekend.

Kevin helping out in the saloon show

Our waterlogged crew riding the Flooded Mine

My sweetie and I riding the train

Josh and Autumn (3rd and 4th from the left) riding Wildfire!

Josh, Robin and I

Kevin, Autumn and Megan

Kevin dancing with the saloon girls

Strawberries and cream...yum!

The girls at grandma's

Labor Day weekend is done, more to come...

2008-09-02T08:37:00.000-05:00

Well, we had a great Labor Day weekend visiting family in Georgetown. Hope everyone else had a great time as well. It was nice to have a few days off to just lounge around and eat. That's pretty much what I did all weekend (not that I'm complaining.)

Now, I have my gestational diabetes screening on Wednesday (I'm sure that will be fun.). Then, this weekend, we are off to Tulsa. Actually...we are off to Silver Dollar City in Branson. Every year, my sister has taken our two youngest sisters on a trip for their collective birthdays. Usually, they come to Six Flags and stay with us. However, with both of us expecting, Six Flags didn't seem like much fun (for the rides or heat). We decided Silver Dollar City would be fun for the girls and still have things that we could do. Plus, our husbands are tagging along so they can ride rides with the girls. It should be fun and a bit cooler than Six Flags would be. I'm really looking forward to it.

Guess that's all I have. Better get back to work since that is what they pay me to do. :)

This is really happening!

2008-08-24T16:38:00.000-05:00

Well, we have spent the weekend doing some work around the house (when my back will allow me to). There has been a lot of organizing in the office, general cleaning, and also arranging the nursery and "building" the stroller. I love the bedding we picked out. I only saw it online so you never know, but when it showed up (after my wonderful mother bought it), it was perfect. Crazy thing is, it's really starting to feel real. We are having a baby! This is really happening!

And just for documentation sake, here is a picture of me at 25 weeks. Getting bigger every day. Sometimes I wonder if the doctor's wrong and there are really TWO of them in there. :)

Lots of traveling and family fun is coming up so stay tuned. I'm sure I will have something to bore you with. Also, thanks to everyone who has posted on my last blog. Your comments are really helpful.

2008-08-20T11:17:00.001-05:00

So, I have reached the point in my pregnancy that I have started the (what I am sure are perfectly normal) fears about labor and delivery. Can I handle it? Should I have an epidural? Some research reassures me and some scares me. Anyone have thoughts or advice on the whole experience? Did you have an epidural?

Also, I am now starting to search for a pediatrician. Any suggestions? I know I can rely on all of you for feedback. :)

Just to checkin

2008-08-14T08:13:00.000-05:00

I wish I could say that I was better at this blogging thing and kept everyone better up to date, but I'm just now. I guess that is because generally I consider my life to be pretty dull and don't want to bore people with what I have to say. :)

Part of it too is that we stay busy. I know it sounds weird to say my life is dull in one paragraph and then that I'm busy in another but it is true. We travel a lot, but it's almost always to the same places to see the same family. I mean, we will be out of town this weekend again, but we are back in Tulsa (like we are a lot lately) so it's not really that exciting.

My wonderful mother bought the bedding for our nursery, and I am anxiously awaiting the delivery of the box at my door so I can open it, see if I really like it (only looked at it online), and make up the crib. I'm so excited!!!! Other than that on the baby front, I guess I am getting into the LOTS of movement stage. I think he was doing somersaults last night from about 11:30 to 1:00ish (when he finally let me got to sleep). Still, I would rather feel him move than not (that makes me nervous), and I just find the whole experience so amazing and miraculous. Life is good!

Well, take care everyone, and maybe I will have something more exciting to write about later. Have a great weekend!

2008-08-02T18:20:00.000-05:00

Well, I know that it has been a while since I have blogged. As usual, the Cooks are staying busy. As promised in my last post, here is my most current "belly" shot taken at 22 weeks. It's hard to believe we are that far along. It really seems like just a short time ago we even found out we were expecting. Crazy!
In the meantime, we went to Tulsa last weekend. I found out that my sister is also having a boy! How fun! We are hoping the boys will be able to grow up and be pretty close to one another so that they have a really good relationship for life. It's very exciting. We also went so I could take my sister, Megan, her 17th birthday present (albeit 2 weeks late). I made her a quilt with frogs since she loves her some frogs. It is the third quilt I have ever made, and it came out pretty well. If I can find the CD that has the pics of the other two on it, I will upload them sometime.

Being clearly insane, we had a garage sale today. We packed it up by noon (it was too hot) but we did fairly well. I am fighting some summertime cold, and it is miserable being restricted on what medication I can take. The funny thing is, even though the PA at the doctor's office told me what medications were safe, I still am nervous about taking anything. I did take a Benadryl last night though, and I think it helped me sleep some, but I haven't taken anything today. Just can't seem to do it.

Another post another day (when I have something to say). ha ha That rhymed!

For those who haven't heard...

2008-07-13T15:06:00.000-05:00

Free Glitter Graphics

We have a sonogram on Friday. It was amazing to see a real little person in there. The technician asked if we wanted to know what it was and, being Type A, we said yes. We were surprised to hear the news, but we can't wait! Finally I have gotten to start having the fun of picking things out and registering for goodies.

I will add some pics and such later in the week. Just wanted to share the news for now.

16 weeks and counting

2008-06-21T18:58:00.000-05:00

Well, the Cooks have been busy and on the road as always. We've spent the last few weekends visiting Kevin's family in Georgetown while his youngest brother was in town on leave from Iraq. It was good to see him and spend time with the family. It also provided us with the opportunity to bring back most of the baby furniture we bought from granny's neighbors.

Other than that, it's work like always. I have a doctor's appointment this week for my 16 week checkup. Then, we have a sonogram on July 11 where we will hopefully find out if it's a boy o r a girl. I can hardly wait. Meanwhile, here's a pic at 16 weeks. Guess it's actually starting to look like there is a baby in there. :)

Another week of work and then we are headed to Tulsa to see my sisters. 4th of July we are headed to Nashville to see Kevin's grandparents. As usual, there's never a dull moment.

13 weeks

2008-06-02T18:09:00.000-05:00

It has been a bit since I blogged last. Time goes by so quickly. Hope everyone had a great Memorial Day weekend. We did and enjoyed getting to spend time with family. It was a nice break.

Things are going well with Baby Cook. We had my 12 week checkup on May 27th. Doctor measured my belly, and we heard the heartbeat, which was amazing! She said everything is going well and to just keep up what I'm doing (whatever that is...). Our sonogram to (hopefully) find out the sex of the baby is July 11th so that is our next goal. Until then, here is a pic of me at 13 weeks. Starting to pooch a little more. I'm currently at that awkward stage between my clothes and maternity clothes so if anyone has maternity clothes to donate or sell cheap, let me know. :)

Well, we are headed out of town again for the next couple of weekends. Ben (Kevin's youngest brother) is due in on leave from Iraq tomorrow, so it is time for some family time.

Until next time, happy birthday to the Ford Triplets!

Travel, travel, travel...

2008-05-22T11:11:00.000-05:00

Well, the Cooks are on the road again. I am flying out this afternoon to meet Kevin in Tulsa to spend the weekend with my grandparents in Northwest Arkansas. Haven't had a good visit with them in a while, so I figured we were overdue. Then, we will be gone the next 2 or 3 weekends after that to Georgetown. Kevin's youngest brother, Benjamin, is coming home on leave from Iraq so we feel like we should be there to spend as much time with him and the family as possible. In between, that also includes the Cook boys annual fishing trip at the coast. Never a dull moment.

Of course, being in Georgetown a few weekends in a row will let us pick up the baby furniture we got such a great deal on. This pregnancy thing gets more real everyday. I have finally passed most of the nausea (only occasional bouts), and I am just getting ready to start my second trimester. That is so crazy! Some days it feels like we just found out and some days it's like we have been pregnant forever. But, I am loving it! We have a 12 week appointment on Tuesday where we should get to hear the heartbeat, and I am really excited about that.

Until then, everyone have a great Memorial Day weekend! :)

9 weeks and counting

2008-05-05T19:50:00.000-05:00

So, I am rather behind in posting. My sister and I both had our 8 week appointments last week, and they adjusted her date by a couple of days so now we aren't due the exact same day. Still, it's fun to be pregnant together, and we have enjoyed calling and e-mailing each other to share experiences.

Even though I couldn't hear the heartbeat, it was amazing to have my sonogram and see the heartbeat. It was nice to know there really is something in there that I have been suffering through this nausea and fatigue for each day.

I am a week behind on my "belly" pics but I don't really think it counts yet anyway. So, here I am at a little over 9 weeks. It's been a roller coaster so far, but all in all I am loving it. Here's to mommyhood.

Sick and tired of being sick and tired

2008-04-24T11:32:00.000-05:00

I have to say that, while I am excited about being pregnant, I'm not so excited at the morning (scratch that -- all day) sickness I have been experiencing. Things hadn't been too bad at first but about week six, I have had rough days almost every day. My mom tells me she was like this for 3 weeks with me and then it got much better, so I am hoping I will follow that trend (that would leave me with about 5 more days of this general crappiness).

Until then, I am open to suggestions for how anyone else survived it. I have heard the eat 2 crackers before you get out of bed idea and it works.....for about the first 1.5 hours. Any commentary is appreciated!

2008-04-20T17:21:00.000-05:00

Well, now that all of the family has been notified, I can finally post about being pregnant. We've known for about 3 weeks now, and it has been fun to tell all of our family.

We found out at about 4 weeks. It's sad that my first "belly" pic already looks like there is something there. That is just a result of my laziness however. Still fun to think that it will only get bigger though and with a legitimate reason. :)

The weekend after we found out, we went to Tulsa to tell the majority of my family. Turns out that my little sister is pregnant and due the same day as me. Here is a pic of us with mom who is quite the stunned grandma-to-be. She certainly wasn't totally ready for one pregnancy, much less two, but says that she is excited about it.

Well, for now, that is all I really have to share. I am tired all the time and have had some pretty severe morning (all day) sickness for the last week. We are now 7 weeks in so hopefully there are only about 5 more weeks of feeling like this, or so I am told. I'll post more as it becomes known.

Ready for the Weekend!

2008-04-09T09:29:00.000-05:00

I just have to say that I am excited baseball is back in season. As a matter of fact, we have tickets with Kevin's family to go to the game on Sunday. I'm really excited about it because I love the Ballpark in Arlington (FYI: that is what it will always be regardless of how many name changes it actually goes through) and the weather on Sunday is supposed to be beautiful so it should be a great time! Yeah for baseball!

East Texas, cows and rain!

2008-03-30T20:39:00.000-05:00

Well, we made it back from East Texas today. We had a good trip spending time with family. It's always nice to get away. When I arrived on Friday, I discovered that Aunt Norma has adopted a new pet. Buttons is a rabbit who they found washed out in the pasture after a heavy rain. She is the cutest thing.

Saturday morning, there was a little bit of rain. I wasn't feeling too well so I hung around the house with Norma while the boys (Kevin and Uncle Bill) went to the cattle auction. Kevin has decided that this would be a side investment (since Bill and Norma have land and cattle), so we bought a 4 month old Black Angus calf. Ultimately, we would like to buy one or two more to eventually breed and sell the offspring. Her name is Bella (I know it seems crazy to name a cow, but apparently that is how it is done), and she is really pretty cute...for a cow.

We woke up this morning planning to get a fairly early start on the road, but at about 4:00 a.m., a big storm hit, complete with hail. We just laid in bed listening to it roll through. Every time it would seem to stop, it would gust up again and more rain and hail. It finally let up a little before 8:00. One side of the front yard looked like a pond, but, after making an escape for breakfast, we got on the road. After we got home, it was the usual chores: laundry, grocery shopping, before another week of work.

Well, I hope everyone had a great weekend. Looks like we are headed to Tulsa again next weekend so, if I don't post again this week, I'll be back after the weekend.

On the Road Again...

2008-03-27T19:15:00.001-05:00

Well, tomorrow is Friday, and the Cook family are on the road again. We are headed out to East Texas to spend some time with some family who have land and chores for Kevin. While it is a little bit of a drive, I always enjoy being out there. It's nice to be somewhere a bit off the beaten path once in a while. I'll try to post some pics when we get back. Everyone have a great weekend!

Easter Trip

2008-03-23T16:57:00.001-05:00

So, we are back from the trip to see family for a few days. Kevin and I were already off work on Friday, but I took off Thursday as well so I could hang out with my sisters. We ate lunch at Cheddar's and went to see "Horton Hears A Who." Cute movie; better if you have kids. On Friday, we took a day trip over to Arkansas to see my grandparents. My grandmother had knee surgery the week before so we thought we would check on her and hopefully add some fun to her being trapped at home. All the rain that passed through here last week also passed through there, so the spring behind their house was flowing more than I had ever seen it in my life. It was really beautiful! I've added some pics from the Arkansas trip below. Now, it's time to get ready to head back for a full week of work. It's always hard to come back from a vacation -- short or long. Have a great week everyone!

Avoiding work

2008-03-19T08:53:00.000-05:00

Is it just me or when you have an extended period of time off work, does it make it harder to do your job the day before you leave? I know that is the case for me today as I sit here at work and cannot focus on what I need to get done. Add to the fact that I am spending half of my day in another Department (seeing how they do their jobs), and I should really be working instead of blogging. Oh well....

On another note, I must say that I am really enjoying all of my buddies blogs. It's fun to go back to when they each started blogging and see how their lives have changed. Who would have thought I would be addicted to blogging?

Well, with an extended weekend, I'm not sure I will have much chance to write. I'll add info and maybe some pics once the trip is over. Happy Easter everyone!

Easter Weekend

2008-03-17T18:36:00.000-05:00

So, having a 3 day weekend and my 2 youngest sisters on Spring Break this week, I took a vacation day at work on Thursday and we are headed to Tulsa. Plus, that will give me an excuse to go to Arkansas and see my grandparents. My grandmother is really excited about that part since she just had knee surgery and is cooped up in the house.

Kev is in Wichita, Colleyville and Tulsa this week. No rest for the weary. As for me, things have settled down at Southwest this week after the media created "scandal" last week. Just looking forward to a 4 day weekend. Happy Easter everyone!