Ruffled Wishes

Stocking Full of Coal

2012-01-07T16:37:00.005-06:00

The title of this post is not what I recieved but exactly what I did not. This year I was full of thanksgiving and joy and peace. I had a renewed sense of what hope the birth of Jesus brought to our world over 2,000 years ago since we ourselves had a little one crawling (yes, crawling at 6 months) around. I cry each time I hear the song "Strange Way to Save the World" because, if you really and truly think about the story of Jesus' birth it makes absolutely NO sense that He arrived the way He did. The second verse of Silent Night totally sums it up for me too..."Radiant beams from Thy holy face, with the dawn of redeeming grace. He was, is and will be that redeeming grace that we all long to find at some point in our lives.
So, this Christmas I made a point to not think about what I wanted or 'needed' but really think about what God has continued to bless all of of us with even though we are not at all worthy of any of it. Now, for picture overload.....

My precious maternal grandparents, Baba and Bupper. They have loved on each other for over 60 years and continue to demonstrate commitment and a marriage as God intended. She was holding his hand as he held her.

Tripp and Jay in a 50 year old plus tree house that used to stand at my grandmother, Puddie's house. It was built by hand by my dad's cousin who was an only child and came to Puddie's house to play with my dad and his brother and sisters. This tree house has been a fort, a kitchen a foxhole and quiet place for dozens of Ruff cousins, 12 grandchildren and God only knows how many swim students that graced the grounds of the 'Ruff Lawn' in Tupelo.....let the next generation of imaginations begin!

This is a painful picture for me, a strange girl football fan that LOVES her Rebels! But, like father, like son and it does look pretty cute on this little man. He has taken it off all of 5 times since Christmas night.

Perfect Form

Where's Tripp?? Still riding his bike in the garage....with a football jersey and bike helmet on! Safety First is his new bike motto (thanks to me)

Don't call Child Services. We don't let our 6 month old watch TV....this close anyway! At least she was watching a team that wins games on a regular basis!

Priceless...and worth EVERY penny and painstaking minute of putting it together. I have 3 words, TWO RIGHT PEDALS!

My precious nephew who obviously believes sticking his tongue out just right will make his decorating skills perfect

Sums everything up from this Christmas! oh, if she only knew.....

FALLing in love

2011-10-08T09:47:00.004-05:00

I don't know what it is about the beginning of fall and the beginning of Spring but both seasons seems to do something to people. People are nicer, fresher in a sense. You go to the grocery store greeted by huge mums and vibrant apples and a smile can't help but creep itself across your face.
I have several fall memories that I hold as close to me as a cup of hot cider. One is being at my grandmother's house in Tupelo during football season. She lived off an old gravel road lined with a dairy barn, a silo and huge ancient oaks. I can still hear the sound of the gravel underneath her Buick hatchback Skylark (which of course we were allowed to drive at 10 years of age!!). Being a family of 14 cousins we were never shorted for imagination and games outside. My cousin, Blair, and I would always rake all the leaves into the shape of our 'dream house' complete with rooms, hallways and anything else we could come up with in our 7 year old heads. Then the boys would come out and those hallways quickly turned into football boundary markers. We would play two-hand touch (TACKLE for siblings) football until the fireflies came out to be caught in glass jars.
I love fall. I love the smells, the football, the food and the family that goes effortlessly with fall. I cannot wait to start traditions with my 2 and can only pray the world of movies, video games and iPads never takes the place of fallen leaves and imagintation!
"Grandma's house is where cousins go to become best friends"
Caramel Stuffed Apple-Cider Cookies-I mean, YUMMMM!!!!

The GREATEST place to tailgate!!! okay, I might be a little biased but I do believe you have to go at LEAST once. You won't see beautiful girls in dresses and heels for a football game anywhere else in this world.

a brand new look

2011-09-23T13:55:00.003-05:00

I love change. Call me strange, odd, weird, whatever but I love it. I was raised as the only daughter with three brothers to a naval officer father so moving was bred into me at birth. I was born in Hawaii and moved 3 times before I was even 5. SEVERAL moves later I found myself at Ole Miss for 4 years and realized that was the longest I had ever "lived" anywhere. I don't have a house that I 'grew up in' per say, I don't go home and hang out with friends I've known since kindergarten or see teachers that taught me in 4th grade. Rather, I have compiled a laundry list of memories from places and people here and there that has shaped my childhood and much of who I am today.
I wasn't allowed to meet a stranger or be shy. When you're a navy 'brat' you have to be willing to "make new friends but keep the old" as the ancient saying tells you so. This happens to be something I value in myself and carry around as 'my thing'.
So, I've decided to change the name of this blog since SO many people read it {insert chuckle here} and were probably tired of seeing Jay, Emily, Tripp and baby sister on the way on my header being that she's 15 weeks old now!
I have had the name 'Ruffled Wishes' on the brain now for some time and since I can't really change the name of my business I decided I could always change the name of this blog. Ruffled is a combination of my maiden name, Ruff, and how I feel most days these days. Most of us like others to think we have it all together, no ruffles or ripples, and deep down realize that this is very far from the truth behind closed doors. I on the other hand wear my heart, life and faith on my sleeve....with or without ruffles on it. With God, we are not called to be fearful but trusting and confident that with Him we are safe, cared for and loved. I don't fear what ruffles God chooses to cast our way because I know that WITH Him it will create a stronger woman, mother, wife, daughter and friend out of me. Just like the quote from my favorite movie, Steel Magnolia's {such oscar winning material;)} "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger".....
Wishes is from my married name, Witcher, and how I actually go about my life....wishfully thinking and trusting God beyond my husband's understanding. Not much bothers me and that really bothers him sometimes! I have wishes for my marriage, wishes for my son and daughter and my own life. Wishes are something we are told to make on stars and believe in at a very young age and I'm a firm believer that it's wishes that allow some to take one more step, smile during dark times or even live one more day.
So, here we have Ruffled Wishes.
Ruffled Wishes is what I have and I'm proud of it!

2 months 2 fast

2011-08-15T20:20:00.000-05:00

When you say something is 2 months away it feels like a lifetime. When that thing has passed it seems that it came and went too fast and you long for the time BEFORE it happened. I read a survey on happiness the other day and research showed that people are happiest up to 8 weeks BEFORE a vacation or fun event is occuring and this made me stop and think about our family and me 8 weeks ago....
We were headed towards the hospital in anticipation of our sweet little girl to arrive. Tripp was not yet a big brother and we were still a family of three. That was BEFORE it happened and needless to say we were thrilled beyond words. But now, 8 weeks has passed and she's 2 months old just like that! Tripp is a precious, protective and proud big brother and we are now a family of four (and happy to stay that way;)!
We had the chance to finally get out to Jay's family cabin in north Mississippi this weekend. Jay deserved some downtime and we deserved some time to get down with Jay;). Sunday it was just us four for the first time in 8 WEEKS!!! Tripp drove the boat and Sophie had her very first ride, pure blessed bliss is all I can say.

Let's Hear It for the Boy!

2011-07-21T15:11:00.004-05:00

I was inspired today by my sweet friend Cat at Contant in Chaos to pray for my husband(more than normal anyway)and hope that he knows how much I love him. I know we, as mothers, sacrifice a lot for our spouses and children but that sacrifice would be twice as hard (at least in my life) if my husband didn't sacrifice in return for his family.
Anyone that knows Jay personally will giggle when you mention his name due largely to the fact that he does just that, makes you giggle! It was what drew me to him from the first meeting and it's honestly the main trait that has kept me coming back through all the ups and downs. I'm not sure he realizes that when he's not trying to be funny is when he's truly the funniest and I love this about him.
-He is one of the hardest workers and most self-determined and self-disciplined (unless it comes to sweets) men I know next to my dad. He is gifted at what he does on a daily basis and those that come in to contact with him on a work level sense this immediately.
-He's an amazing athlete and I can only pray (believe me there is nothing too small) that Tripp has an iota of his ability.
*on a sidenote, I consider myself pretty athletic too so Sophie does have that going for her too*
-He's loyal to a fault but if he has to have one, I don't mind it being loyalty at all!
-Of course he's a fabulous father and I know Tripp already admires him and Sophie will soon have him wrapped around her finger.

Sunday we will celebrate our SEVENTH anniversary and although this doesn't sound very long to most of you out there (since I have like 3 readers:), we dated for 5 years LONG DISTANCE before we even got engaged so really that 7 should have an asteric alongside it when we celebrate...not to mention I'm a Rebel and he's a bulldog. Making that work alone is a test from God!
He is still the love of my life and when I look back at all we've been through together I grin a little wider every time knowing that we made it and will continue to make it as long as God allows us on this earth....together.
He never reads our blog but if he just so happens to-
I LOVE YOU, JAY WITCHER!!!!
Our family and I am better because of you and I honestly thank my God every time I remember you and all He's walked us through with His guidance and never ending grace!

Our first dance, so young

Typical photo of Jay when we try to take a picture

The day Tripp was born. He was so proud it was a boy that would carry hi namesake.

Plus One

2011-07-14T15:41:00.006-05:00

Well, we are officially plus ONE, one month later. Sophie is the "fweetest" (tripp language) and we already can't imagine our family without her here.
Sophie Ann
June 14th, 2011
6 pounds, 10 ounces
8:29 am

A Party to Remember

2011-06-06T08:24:00.005-05:00

Tripp's Birthday party was Saturday and we celebrated with a sports theme. He kept telling Jay and me that all he wanted was "hard balls" at his party and we weren't really sure what to make of that until we realized he meant REAL balls that he could throw, not the plastic ones we let him use inside! So, it went off without a hitch
(8 days out from having little girl)and he is still saying that he loved his birthday!
The main table-
Baseball cupcakes (made by me), strawberry cake with the goal post topper, game dogs, peanut 'putter' and jelly sandwiches, chip shots (chips) and peanuts

The cake which was DELICIOUS!!!!

Cookie pops made by Sugarbaby's

I did the stickers and they are waterproof and removable-29:11 Creations

He wouldn't blow out his own candle so Jay and I took charge

LOVED his jersey shirt made by my sweet friend Jamie at Goochie by Jamie.

On the Calendar

2011-05-24T12:31:00.004-05:00

Well, our date is set for little sister to arrive, unless of course she decides to appear on her own time. The doctor called this morning and we are scheduled for Tuesday, June 14th....my youngest brother's birthday!
This is totally bittersweet for me and I'm open to admitting that now. I mentioned to Jay the other night that I'm ready to not be pregnant anymore but not so sure I'm 'ready' for a baby. But, is anyone really ever READY??? Not at all!!
For now I'm just praying that Tripp adjusts well and my brain stays in tact....or at least somewhat in tact.
Any advice is welcome on going from one to two.....

Tornado Relief Drive

2011-05-02T14:11:00.006-05:00

I can't help but have a broken heart for all those affected in North MS and AL with the recent tornadoes. I know God is calling me to take action and I'm blessed that I work with an amazing group of women that will help! My Arbonne team has compiled a list of products Arbonne offers that were being requested for victims and with every purchase of one of these items an identical item will be donated....ONE for ONE!! There is no limit or minimum on what you can buy/donate so PLEASE help us in this effort!!!
Below is a sample order form and you can purchase online as well at www.onefor1.org

PLEASE forward this to your friends and family and email me at infoonefor1@gmail.com
with any questions or orders!!

New Baby anxiety

2011-04-20T07:52:00.002-05:00

I found this on a blog I love and got a kick out of it! Glad to know I'm not the only one feeling the way I feel (and I'm sure Jay has felt this entire time) Enjoy and smile.....

From a reader-
I am currently 37 weeks pregnant with my second child (another boy!). My first, Jack, is three and is the light of our lives, although we're finding out that three is a challenging age. Envelope pushing is his hobby, I think. But he's funny as all get out and we're left in stitches most of the time.
Anyway, I'm writing because, frankly, I'm scared out of my wits about having another baby. Tell me that I didn't just screw up a good thing by getting pregnant again, even if it was a totally planned pregnancy.

(me with Isaac and newborn Abbey)
Well, all I can do is tell you how I felt.

With every single baby, but the first (because I was clueless), I had TOTAL new baby anxiety. When I'd find out I was pregnant, I'd be overjoyed and blah blah blah, and then morning sickness would set in, my house, schedule, EVERYTHING would become more and more unraveled and I'd just panic. What the heck did I do? I can't handle the kids I have already, I'd think. Why did I think adding another to the mix was a good idea?

And then during the second trimester I'd feel all good and Pottery Barn Kid-ish, where I'd picture everything going so smoothly and color-coordinated and smiley.

And then during the third trimester I'd be huge and tired and crabby and impatient, especially at the end. Those last two weeks (and I mean weeks 38-41...many girls don't get there, and let me tell you, it takes you to a whole new level of pregnancy), I'd really be freaking out. I would look around at my house, at the toys I'd have to kick to the basket, because I couldn't bend down to pick them up. At the laundry basket I couldn't carry. At the meals I didn't have the energy to cook. At the same time I could have pulled that baby out myself. Better out than in, I'd think. I'd be haunted by those words weeks later.

And then again...those first 2 weeks after the birth I was still on a high. "Oh look at me, losing weight, and handling it all so well, and I'm dressed cute too, with my baby in the Bjorn and my clean shiny toddlers at my side!"

And then CRASH, sleep deprivation really catches up, my milk comes in, my mood crashes down, my appetite can't be satisified, my weight goes right back up, my clothes are all dirty, maternity pants are my only option, my husband can't do anything right, and don't even think about touching me mister, a trip to the grocery store sets me back days, a shower is my biggest accomplishment, and I would think, "I am a miserable no good mother and everyone else does this better than me."

I followed this exact pattern every single time. You'd think I'd learn, don't you? Everytime I'd say, "Oh it's not going to be like last. I'm really going to lose that baby weight right away, I'm really going to stay on top of that laundry, I'm really going to be super sweet to my husband even though I want to say a million sarcastic things about how he gets to sit down and eat lunch and go to the bathroom by himself. I'll make sure I have cute post-baby clothes, wear earrings and makeup and have great meals all set up and that will change everything."

And it never did.

The only thing that changed is that I stopped being so hard on myself for feeling this way.

Stop fighting these feelings and most importantly stop feeling like there is something wrong with you for having them! Maybe some women handle all this new baby stuff, and ups and downs, and back and forths, without merely a bat of the eye. Or maybe they just say they do and really don't. Who knows, and who cares.

The most important thing you can remember is that every stage of bringing a new soul into this world does NOT last forever. I know that in the midst of morning sickness, or the last trimester or the first 3 months of adjustment I would forget this. I would think, "I can't do this forever!" forgetting completely that I didn't have to! Things would change, get easier, or just get to be a new normal. Change isn't change when you get used to it...when it becomes regular.

You are afraid that your routine won't stay the same and your schedule won't either?
You are right, it won't.
You will need a new routine and a new schedule.
With the experience you gained with your first newborn, you will have that much more knowledge to add and find more quickly what works and doesn't for you.

Pay attention to what works and what doesn't.
If going to a playgroup makes you all crabby and out of sorts, you toddler tired and your baby fussy, then don't go for a couple months or forever if you want.
If it makes you feel energized and happy to go, then make it a priority.
Start thinking about what makes your day easier and what makes your kids peaceful.
Stop thinking about what others outside your family want, need, expect during this time.

If it makes you stress to have a dirty messy house, most people would say, "Oh we'll just have to get used to letting it go."
Well, I'm the same way, and I tried to be laid back about it, all it did was make me miserable and panicky and depressed.
I gave a couple of very specific jobs to my husband so that he could help me, and I made keeping my house cleaned and straightened a priority. I found places for the new baby things, and I made sure to pick up a room whenever I got a chance.
It was the only order I had in my life at that time, and I craved it.

You are afraid that you won't have as much patience?
You won't.
You will be tired.
Who has patience when they've been up all night?
But you know what?
Every first child needs a little less patience in his life.
Really.
And he will share the importance and love and thank God for that.
When I think of how much my husband and I were both in my first son's face all the time, I think probably the best thing that ever happened to that kid was his baby sister.
Don't ever ever entertain the idea in your head of "poor Jack". Every kid can see, sense, smell, pity in his/her mother's eyes and not only does it scare the crap out of them it's a recipe for disaster. The smart ones will manipulate like crazy because they can. This could lead to never ending behavior issues. No pity!

Here are some practical tips:
With each of my babies, I handed over the bedtime routine of the older ones to my husband. Maybe the kids had to get used to that at first, but we were very consistent with it and in days it was no big deal. He did bath, books, bed, whatever it took, so that I could either go to bed early, feed the baby peacefully, or maybe even run around the house and pick up if I had a burst of energy. My husband also would give me a break after his work day...he'd take the kid(s) outside or just keep them entertained for a little while so I could shut my brain down and just be with the baby.

Keep the things that don't have to change as consistent as possible. Mealtimes, bedtimes, etc. At the same time, lighten up a little too. You have to find that new schedule, and this might mean tweaks to the old one here and there.

Start now saying "OUR baby." Everytime. Include your son in picking outfits out, giving baths, putting on diapers, almost everything. Ask him what he thinks. Brag about him so he hears you. Not "he's handling it so well" like it's a shocker, but little specific things. It's so hard but make an effort to spend time with him alone, even if it's for 5 minutes on the floor. Ignore jealous attention getting behavior...the bigger deal you will make of, the more it will continue. Pick your battles. If you feel guilt or pity, like I said, you will wallow and whine and NOT be self-assured and matter of fact, which is what all kids need.

Don't do things that stress you out. If I had a pediatricians appt. then the rest of the day, sometimes the rest of the week, I did nothing. Anticipate your breaking point, and try to stay below it. Make changes, be brave!, say no, cancel plans, don't feel pressure to keep up with what it seems like everyone else does.

I know everyone says "sleep when the baby sleeps" but I never ever could! The more I'd try the more I'd stay wide awake with the pressure of trying to get my "one and only chance at sleep". Sometimes I would just sit and relax, but what made me feel best, was catching up. Straightening up, running through the house and doing a quick vacuum or something like that. That would give me the peace of mind and more energy.

Most importantly, remember those that have gone before you in this motherhood journey. I would sometimes think of my grandmothers, mothers of 7 and 9, and how just down-to-business, matter-of-fact they were, and with tight times, and very few of our modern conveniences to help them.

I once asked my Grandma Beilein, with desperation, after I had my first two and just felt so overwhelmed, "How did you do this with 9 kids?"

She looked at me like I was crazy and said, "Well I didn't have them all at once!"

"That's it", I thought? That's all the advice you are going to give me?

And to this day, I think it's the best thing I've ever heard her say.

You learn, you grow, you find your way as a mother, one child at a time.
Being a mother of one is different from two, and from three and so on and so on.
Be open to the change, and that means not beating yourself up along the way.
You can listen to others, read books, ask advice, but really it's YOUR journey.
Listen and trust yourself most of all.

Tickled what?

2011-02-07T18:00:00.008-06:00

What a fun weekend we had with our most precious family and friends! Jay and I did not find out the sex of baby #1 and for some reason, although adorned in pink, I was convinced I was an 'all boy mom'. But, once again I am not in control and can't wait to watch our precious new bundle come in to this world and bless us as much and more as Tripp.
Adorable shirts made by my sweet and talented friend, Jamie Hatfield. They were perfect no matter the color.

Center of the dining/food table

Branches with 'It's a boy' and 'It's a Girl' clips for guests to wear their guess

Oh, the cupcakes!!!! There are no words to express the beauty of these and the taste was even better! Thanks, Kristen Mullen with Crumb!

When it was all said and done....

They are both going to need their rest because....

Toys? Who needs toys??

2011-02-03T16:18:00.003-06:00

I have started 'nesting' and totally wish God would give me Incredible Hulk muscles while doing so. The urge to rearrange every room of my house goes hand in hand with this crazy phenom! Tripp definitely benefitted from one day's nesting session. He got a super clean and organized closet in his big boy room complete with enough area to play! He also got to play with all the super cool BOXES.....umm,dude, we have hundreds of dollars of toys upstairs, in your room and in our keeping room but you were more than thrilled with boxes?? Good times that bring back memories for all generations I'm sure!

Rain on My Parade...

2010-10-15T14:19:00.003-05:00

I constantly listen to music while I'm working and designing and because of that I find myself running through the same play lists on my itunes quite often. Today, in the search for some new inspiring music (I'm a huge contemporary christian gal) I found a song by Kathleen Carnali, called "Dangerous Prayer". When listening to the lyrics it totally was a slap in the heart!
I so easily ask God to show me who He wants me to be or what He has planned for my life but find myself running clumsily in the opposite direction when His GPS is turned my way. We are all so quick to say, "It's all in God's plan..." and this song says if it is YOUR plan then we have to allow Him to RAIN ON OUR PARADE even if it's the parade with the coolest floats and beads. STRIP ME DOWN AGAIN SO I'M DESPERATE FOR YOU even if that means being naked and unsure for a while of the path we are to be walking.
So, if you're like me at all (let's hope you're not;) then be sure that the next time you come to the Father looking for answers that we're not underestimating His love for us, His knowledge of us, and His protectiveness over His own children.
I'm honored to have such an amazing and all-knowing life-planner on my team but trusting Him is not as easy as it sounds.
Make your prayers dangerous with the idea that what's dangerous and uncomfortable for you is exactly what excites our Heavenly Father because it gives Him the chance to shine as He deserves!!
"Want to make God laugh, tell Him YOUR plans!"

Where has the time gone?

2010-09-23T14:42:00.002-05:00

Not a single person was lying when they said, "It goes by so fast". Tripp is the most beautiful and amazing person I've ever come in to contact with and being able to be called his mother is the greatest gift God could have ever entrusted to me.
He is funny, tenderhearted, loving and sometimes I think he goes way over his word quota for the day but we are blessed that he is so smart (he must get that from my side of the family;)and capable of so much.
Just a few updated pics that I took this week in our backyard....doesn't he look just like his mama!! HA!

Leave a Legacy

2010-09-21T14:38:00.002-05:00

September 10th, 2010 a wonderful, powerful tenacious woman passed away. Puddie Eason Ruff (yes her name was puddie;) was
a woman of character
a woman of extreme faith
a woman of family
a woman of team
a woman of love and most of all
a woman of GOD.
As my uncle stated at her funeral, she was a 5 foot 2 fireball and anyone that ever came in to contact with her figured that out in the first 5 minutes.
But to me she was home and the only home I really ever knew growing up. She was a constant in an ever changing navy brat world of moves. Her home was our "camp" and the laughter of all 14 grandchildren still rings over there on Thomas St. in Tupelo, MS.
Puddie was my rock and she loved to roll. I close my eyes when I'm discouraged and can see her coming out of her screen door to say, "Emily, move your feet, bend your knees, racket back...."
and I'm not sure she realized just how profound these words would be to me.
She didn't just teach, she demonstrated how to be a motivator, a team player, a coach, a mother and more importantly to me a grandmother in which I compare all others.
Never was an angry word said but you knew when she meant business. Never was a discouraging gesture heard because she was built to encourage.
A 5 foot 2 fireball....
She quoted scripture to her death and knew that God was forever her fortress and strength. She is in Heaven today playing the best rounds of tennis she's ever played and setting up swimming lessons for all the sweet children that went before her.
She was my Tupelo Honey and life is much sweeter because of her.
Thank you, Puddie, for loving me and blessing me beyond measure by being my grandmother.

It's Official

2010-06-28T14:01:00.003-05:00

The candles have been blown out, the cake has been cut and yes, the little baby boy is OFFICIALLY now TWO!
Thanks to all our sweet friends that helped us celebrate this milestone....tear free!!
He's still telling every one he's three is the only problem!

He's what??

2010-06-07T18:45:00.004-05:00

Please stop, and don't mention the word birthday around me right now when referring to my BABY! I got teary eyed at the church nursery yesterday when someone just mentioned the word 'two', so needless to say, this is why I'm doing his birthday entry 11 days early.
He's grown.
Those two words sum up everything that has happened from last June til now. Of course, he's grown in height, weight, hair length, and in ability. But the grown that is the most bittersweet to accept is the growing he's done in departments like; talking,understanding, loving others, laughing at Buzz and Nemo, loving nothing more than jumping (he calls it 'dumping') on the bed and being chased by his ever loving daddy (whom he calls 'gaggy'). He's grown into our hearts with roots so deep not even we have the depth to hold them inside.
We love him in every sense of the word and yet so much more. He is the blessing that God had in store for our family long before we could even fathom the joy He already knew.
And now, to stop the tears, I giggle at the sound of his precious lisped voice hollering, "Mama, um here, are you" and I grin because I know exactly what he's saying and what it is he wants.
Freeze time, please freeze!!
We love you Buzzy, happy happy birthday-God is too good!

Been a while....

2010-04-26T15:05:00.005-05:00

We have been so busy these last few months that the family blog has definitely taken a back burner to the rest of our lives!
Tripp i growing and talking more every day (not always fun to watch from a mama's perspective:)and before we know it he will be TWO!!! Although he already thinks of himself as an 18 year old I'm afraid. He is funny funny funny and makes us giggle constantly.
He still looks just like his daddy and acts like him all the same...scary, I know!
Just a few pics to update without lots of words!

Easter was so much fun this year....he LOVED the candy part especially. We went to the Country Club egg hunt then Sunday had some great friends over for lunch after church. No one had seen Tripp or MWW for a while and all we heard was giggling from my laundry room and this was what all the giggles were about.....boys boys!!

He couldn't wait to touch the Easter Bunny but when he got up there he wasn't so sure

That innocent face before he does something horrid

Getting sweet sugar from daddy!

Sharing our basket contents...sort of!

At the Ole Miss/State game with his favorite 'brothers', Jack and Sam (he thinks they are the same person)

Winning at a big boy game of "Smear the Q*%#r"

Eating the Valentine's Cake we made

The decorated cake, Tripp's version

The way it should have looked....

Lukewarm

2010-04-18T22:00:00.003-05:00

I've always believed and seen that it is not God that moves but us throughout our daily ins and outs of life. It is not HE that pushes us off the balance beam but us, ourselves that lose balance and focus and fall with deductions!
I opened my mailbox Saturday and had totally forgotten that I ordered Angie Smith's new book I Will Carry You about 3 months ago. I said, "Oh, yeah" then put it on the counter thinking it would add to the mounding stack of almost finished novels I have accumulated on my night stand. But something (I know what that something was;) kept telling me to pick it up this morning before church so I did. And after 5 pages wondered if anyone would notice me reading while driving or during the sermon...it's so pure, truthful and humbling to anyone's heart.
But of course God was setting me up for a different epiphany from the next few pages.
Our small group tonight discussed becoming 'lukewarm' in today's society and the book Crazy Love questions if christians are actually capable of beoming lukewarm if they are as they say they are, belivers in Christ?? Why do we believe what we do or follow unwritten bylaws that our church society has set before us without even asking why we do these things?
We discussed ways to "do better" at this lukewarmness and after lots of discussion and opinions I came home to pick up my book, with the magnet in it, to find a passage where Angie is disecting the relationship Jesus had with Lazurus, Martha and Mary's brother, and the love He had for him. When he became sick Martha and Mary didn't tell Jesus HOW he could perform His miracle (Lord, heal her cancer; Lord, stop his addiction....we all do it)
yet it's what they DON'T SAY that shows the true faith in their hearts that God truly is the healer of all things. They simply say, 'the one you love is sick'. Well, God loves me and I love Him and when I am hurting HE knows and is faithful to fix what HE sees fit to 'fix'. (John 11)
So often I find myself telling God what I think is the best answer to a problem or cure to an illness but I don' give MY GOD enough credit that He is the same God that created this world and surely is the same God that knows what is best for any situation if we would only allow Him this opportunity!!
I say all this because in the grand scheme of my every day I really do forget to LET GO and LET GOD. For He is the only one that cares more than me to see that I don't become lukewarm for Him. It is He who lights a fire in my heart to chase after Him with arms raised high and an abandoned heart!
PLEASE do yourself a favor and read this book. It really does open up your heart as God wants it to be and fills you with a peace of understanding that only He can offer.

Little Snowbunny

2010-02-15T15:40:00.001-06:00

We had about 5 inches of beautiful snow last week! Tripp woke up and when I opened is curtains he yelled, "SNOW...HO, HO, HO"!! Don't ask he put these 2 things together but he was so excited! We ran and put on our best version of southern snow attire and went to town playing in it. When I asked him to come inside because we were cold he told us, "No way"! So, of course I bribed him with the best treat snow provides...snow cream! He wasn't crazy about it but his mama sure loves it!

Lovin' on Nani

2010-02-10T17:24:00.000-06:00

Tripp loves when Nani (my mother) comes and teaches him new things! This was her teaching him, "If You're Happy and You Know It"....Of course the stomping your feet part was his favorite part! He's growing up so fast!
Notice the war wound under his right eye. That was a MMO accident that will go down as his first scar. He points to it in the mirror and says, "Bobo" but Jay tells him that chicks dig scars. We'll see how that goes for him!

Punkin Pics

2009-10-31T10:16:00.002-05:00

Last week while we were in Memphis we got a chance to dress up (alike) and take some cousin pics! They were precious and funny to watch all together and Lindsey is the BEST big girl cousin you could ask for!

I really hope this is not a sign that my child is going to torture cats!!

Been Busy!

2009-10-19T13:25:00.001-05:00

Phew, can't believe it's been 16 months!! So much has gone on and changed for us recently! Tripp is "talking" non-stop and all over the place to say the least! He has ventured to both State and Ole Miss for games and done great at both...he loves a good tailgate snack!
My middle brother got engaged to the most wonderful girl in the world the weekend of the Ole Miss/Alabama game so we are going to be busy planning a wedding this next year too!
God has blessed us in ways beyond our measure and every morning reminds me of the glory He deserves for our happiness!

Obvioulsy, we needed a haircut but I made this outfit so wanted documented proof! It's reversable and has MSU on the other side!

Tripp and Emily Nelson playing with "Uncle Jeff"

Tripp teasing WW with his dinner...WW didn't think it was as funny as Tripp!

Just chillin at the MSU game...thanks for the blackout eyes, Mal

My precious little baby is growing up!!

LOVING some honey mustard in the Grove!

Her sweet parents! She's an only girl like me with all brothers so we have lots in common!!

Hugging her sweet daddy!

Cute sign for their future home!

Techno Tripp

2009-09-09T14:14:00.002-05:00

Tripp is a dancing machine and the other day he was going nuts over TECHNO!!! He actually prefers rap (and loves the Ole Miss fight song to be honest;) but techno was the music of the day...should I be worried of things to come??? sorry for the angle, can't ever remember to turn my camera!!
Note..I'm telling him to "drop it like it's hot" because he usually bounces up and down that way. I'm not encouraging a "clubber", I promise!

Techno Tripp from emily witcher on Vimeo.

Busy, Busy...

2009-08-20T09:59:00.003-05:00

I have to be honest when I say I'm glad summer is actually coming to an end! We have gone non-stop and it is nice to finally have no where to go...at least until Labor Day when football starts! Just a few updates of Tripp's most recent ventures...

Our new chair that we are obsessed with!

Getting some love from cousin Elizabeth in Tupelo

First mini haircut. The "she's beautiful" comments were finally enough to make me cut it! Just killed me that we waited so long for this hair and then we chop it off so soon!!

Sharing our orange juice with Jack...our fave big 'brother'!!

Beach Pics long overdue!

2009-08-04T13:59:00.003-05:00

Just now getting around to the beach pictures and still haven't edited or tinted them all so just posting 2 now for your viewing pleasure! Killed me because the day before I took these he fell and hit his eye on a beach chair! So, that's the shiner in the pics...that's a boy for ya! Jay said it added character to the pictures.
Tripp is 14 months next week and it's killing me how fast time has flown. He really is fun and funny though! He is 90 to nothing and definitely keeps me busy throughout the day. He is talking a little but only in a language that a mama could understand really!
He LOVED the beach and had a blast playing with his cousins. I think he thinks the sand is sugar because falling in it then licking it off his own face was a big hit!

Big Thanks

2009-07-29T09:52:00.003-05:00

Want to thank all of you that stopped by yesterday for the AWESOME Christmas in July show! We had a great turnout thanks to the wonderful vendors that helped make the day extra fun and special! Can't wait til the next one!
I wanted to extend my Christmas Coupon to those that were not able to attend or forgot to pre-order their cards from me for Christmas (can't believe I'm thinking about Christmas already)!

(click on ad for more clear view)
All you have to do is send me your email, tell me you want me to do them and that's it! If you have pictures or ideas send them my way too.
Your total is not due til you receive your order!
Thanks again for the continued support of this hobby!

Christmas In July

2009-07-24T09:54:00.002-05:00

Please come and enjoy some great and easy shopping before the Christmas rush begins! Bring a friend!

Congrats Ross and Lara

2009-07-20T21:56:00.003-05:00

We had a great time in Destin for Ross and Lara's wedding this weekend! Congrats and God bless to both of you and your future family. Thanks for the great memories!
I will definitely post beach pics of Tripp later...took too many to edit right now!
Amy and me with "a few of our favorite things"! ha!

Bennett, Kimmie, Jay and me

Jay and me at the reception...it was beautiful!!

Sweet Cousin kisses

The fam...still surrounded by boys!

Jay and me ready for dinner on Thursday night

The girls before the MJ dance party started!

Aloha!!

2009-07-13T15:24:00.006-05:00

Hawaii was wonderful....for most of us! Jay's and my little brother's golf clubs were stolen but other than that we all had fun!
The fam...I'm surrounded by boys!

Me, Jay, Jon, Daniel and Brooke in our infinity pool in Maui

2 Parrots that did all kinds of tricks on the beach in Waikiki

The middle of the USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor

The view of some huge homes from the top of Diamond Head...what a life!

After we made it to the top of Diamond Head

The view of Waikiki from the top of Diamond Head

Jay and me at the top of Diamond Head (he ran back to our hotel from here!)

Chinaman's Hat (a small island on the Windward side of the island)

Koi fish waiting to be fed

Dole Pineapple Plantation

At the top of the Pali Lookout

Rocky, the Hawaiian Monk Seal that came to sunbathe on the beach in Waikiki! They told us this was VERY rare and should be flattered she laid out in front of us! They are one of the most extinct mammals in the world.

A rainbow outside of our room on the first morning we were there. There is one every day there. God loves Hawaii!!

Lindsey playing on the beach...without a bathing suit on!

Tripp's First Birthday

2009-06-25T13:33:00.004-05:00

The party was a splash! Other than it being 200* outside every one had fun! Thanks to my dear friend and photographer, Cat, who captured all that I couldn't that day!

The Birthday boy...HATED his hat!

Daddy stealing some sugar

Tripp trying to give away sugar!

Another attempt at a family photo

Precious happy baby!

My 3 amazing brothers

Happy Birthday Baby!

2009-06-18T07:44:00.003-05:00

Dear Tripp-
It's hard to believe this time last year we did not even know you! I thank God every day for allowing me to be your mother and enjoy each moment with you as we watch you grow. You have brought more joy to Daddy and me than you or we could ever fathom...and it's only been one year! Your smile alone is reason enough for us to get up every morning. Thank you for loving us unconditionally and teaching us patience as only a little boy could. I know year 2 will be just as much and more as the first was for us all!
Love you-
Mommy

Girl's Night!!

2009-06-17T15:01:00.000-05:00

MAKEOVERS AND MIMOSAS!!!

at Liz Henry Jewelry
Join us June 26th and 27th for MAKEOVERS AND MIMOSAS!!! A makeup specialist will be at the store doing free mini makeovers with products from Switzerland's best...Arbonne.

Remember, Liz Henry jewelry and Arbonne work together to bring awareness and raise money for CARA...Community Animal Rescue and Adoption. Together we are making a difference!

Enjoy Liz Henry discounts, food, mimosas and MAKE-UP!!!

Call or email to book your appoitment.
601-362-8337 or lizhenryjewelry@aol.com

Wet and Wild

2009-06-02T14:32:00.006-05:00

We had a cookout the other night at the Mars' house and let the kids run wild....and of course they did!!

Tripp thinks Coulson is hysterical!

2 beautiful Marion babies!!

Libby about to give them a crash course in slip-n-slide etiquette

Pretty, I mean handsome little boy!

Another little face I love!

This picture makes me laugh! It's like he's saying, 'I sunburn easier and my belly is bigger than yours so don't mess with me!'

These 2 are sure to be a couple one day! Sorry, Charles!

This looks just like her daddy!

Libby was queen of splash all day!

King of the yard...definitely gets that from mama!!

Darden

2009-06-02T14:29:00.002-05:00

I couldn't help but share this unbelievable sunset at Darden Memorial Day!

Memorial Day

2009-06-02T14:21:00.004-05:00

We have been busy already this summer and can't believe it's already June!! We headed to Darden (outside of Oxford) for Tripp's first boat experience there! He loved the boat but the water was too cold to get in.

Daddy and his little buddy!

Cousin Elizabeth (Tripp played shadow with her all weekend!)

Aunt Amy

Whew, that's cold!

Cousins and Cappi

2009-05-20T08:06:00.003-05:00

Playing with sweet Benton and Tripp getting some smooches from my dad, Cappi, at the Ole Miss baseball game a couple weeks ago!
I love this picture!

2009-05-20T07:54:00.003-05:00

My grandparents had Tripp and me over for dinner the other night and other than him terrorizing every nice, antique thing she has in her home he loved her rocking chair!
This was my grandmother's rocking chair when she was a baby and it still looks brand new!

Cozy Coupe Cutie

2009-05-20T07:45:00.003-05:00

Recently we were at my parent's house and my mother had my grandmother's old cozy coupe (which hasn't changed at all) and Tripp thought Christmas had come early! We played, drove and climbed for hours in the backyard meanwhile trying to keep him away from the pool!!!

Checking under the hood...

So proud of himself!

Now Showing

2009-05-11T17:56:00.003-05:00

Birth Announcement Door Hangers (fully personalized for $45)are now available at Smitten. If you're looking for something special to hang on your hospital door or in your nursery here's your answer!
Thanks to everyone, including Smitten, for your support of this hobby of mine that I am blessed to do!
This is just one older example. Please visit Smitten in Ridgeland for more examples or my art/stationery website

Fountains of Fun

2009-05-06T18:17:00.004-05:00

Last week while Jay was playing golf Tripp and his older girlfriend, Evie played in the fountains! Now that he's walking he's having too much fun every where we go....and starting to RUN!!!

I guess he and Evie were having a litle heart to heart....

Taking it all in

I love this pic of evie

Another deep thought moment!

We're Walking, We're Walking...

2009-04-30T12:56:00.003-05:00

Tripp started walking about 2 weeks ago but has just gotten to where he does it all the time! He is so proud of himself and it's been funny for us to watch! Sorry the video is sideways. Couldn't quite figure out how to flip it after I downloaded it???
We had just finished playing in the water so he has his bathing suit on!

Tripp Walking from emily witcher on Vimeo.

Bunnies, Bulldogs and Buddies, Oh My!

2009-04-19T15:24:00.006-05:00

Tripp's first Easter was a joy for all 3 of us. We had an Easter Egg Hunt at the Country Club Saturday and he wasn't quite sure what to think about crawling in the grass looking for those egg things. But, once he figured out there was candy in them he was more than happy to find eggs!
Of course, we are blessed to have a Risen Savior that died for each of us and were overjoyed that He has sent us our little boy to share that love with this year!
(Sorry for all the pics)

Our Easter basket...he was more interested in the grass stuff inside it!

Figuring out the whole egg thing

Still not real thrilled with the hunt...next year he'll love it!

Our sweet friend, Ella

I think he was in deep thought about his daddy's golf game!

Our attempt at another family photo...

Easter Sunday in the backyard

Our three favorite buddies in the world. Jay woke him up to play with them and he squeals anytime they walk in the room! We love all 5 of yall, Thoms!

Sweet baby...with ravioli on his face, again!

Surely Daddy was explaining to him that he needs to be a Georgia fan! It's easier on both of us this way!

The boys! Jay's dad (JLW 1), Bennett (Uncle Bobby), Jay and another 'let me down' face on Tripp

Dryers and Ravioli

2009-04-08T08:37:00.005-05:00

Tripp is ALL over the place!!! He's still not walking on his own but I think it's because he's so fast crawling! The other day I stepped out of the laundry room to grab my camera so I could grab some cute pics of him and this is what I found first....

Dry Humor from emily witcher on Vimeo.
Then I went to grab my phone and returned to find Tripp head first in the dryer...feet kicking in the air and grunting so what else would a good mother do but help a little man out and put him completely IN the dryer (yes, you all have permission to call child services now!) Hey, he had fun and that's all that matters, right?!?

This is how he does his feet every time he's in his highchair...just a cute quirk!

Bunny Ears and Ravioli, really mom?

New games

2009-04-04T09:23:00.003-05:00

Playing in Fred's bed

Playing Peek-a-boo with Fred (Fred only thought he was safe under the bed!)

Our other favorite place...the pantry and all our trash bags!

More old pictures

2009-04-04T09:15:00.004-05:00

Our hard hat from Handy Manny Party

We love cups!

His shirt said, 'Call Me'!

Our favorite thing to do...just a swingin!!

Shout Out

2009-04-01T09:48:00.002-05:00

Wanted to give a shout out to my cousin, Anne, who is an artist to say the least! For Christmas I gave Jay a charcoal drawing she did of Tripp at 4 months and he cried! She is extremely talented and doesn't give herself enough credit for this gift she has been given!
She and I have been like sisters since birth and I just wanted to let everyone in on her little secret!!! Please take time to look at her site and the beauty of the pic below that I now have framed in my dining room!

Family Update

2009-03-24T20:38:00.004-05:00

Okay, the camera memory card is still out of commission and while TRYING to stay on a budget, a new memory card hasn't quite made it in to the buggy! But, that doesn't mean our little man has taken a break on growing, changing and making us happier and more thankful every day for him!
Here's the only picture that my friend took of us at the country club the other night. It's terrible of me, and Jay had just gotten off the golf course but you can't beat Tripp's face!...thanks, Jenny, for the precious outfit! (this is the last time we could wear it and it was definitely a favorite!)
We had our 9 month check up Monday and...
-Tripp is weighing in at 22.13 lbs (yes, he's thick)
-30 1/2 inches long
-Has 8 TEETH (I miss those sweet gums:)
-Has had his 2nd ear infection so we are praying this round of Omnicef cures all!
-Is still standing on his own but gets a little ancy if you help him take a step......This is a little irritating due to the fact that his mama would love to put him down in public places for at least a second! (stop laughing, mothers of toddlers!)
-Is talking/babbling up a storm at and to everything! Mama and Dadda are of course his favorites but has started pointing at things and "singing" til he gets it. This is really funny!
-Eats almost all table food that he can get his hands on even if he's not hungry
-Absolutely loves his daddy and tries to jump out of my arms any time he walks into the room which absolutely makes me melt!
We love him more each day and it has been such a joy to wake up every morning and uncover what the Lord has in store!

Oh no....

2009-02-20T16:59:00.002-06:00

My memory card for my camera no longer downloads on to my computer!!!! I'm thinking I just need a new adapter but I've only had it almost a year so this should NOT be happening! Needless to say, there are lots of moments that are being held captive in that little card right now and I know they are dying to get out and be shared! Sad, too because that means I have to go to Walgreens and get pictures rather than editing them with my photoshop so they look good....back to the stone ages!
HELP!!!

Defining Joy...

2009-02-11T21:30:00.004-06:00

I was recently reading a blog of a blog (like a friend of a friend;) and came across the question, "what is your definition of joy"? Not what BRINGS you joy but how do you define it in your own life. I was quickly stumped and began to think of all the things in my life that bring me joy, not defined it. Then I remembered the quote that this same blogger had referenced in the beginning post..."God always gives His best to those who leave the choice to Him" and it hit me, I haven't completely given Him the choice to show me pure, uninhibited JOY recently.
I am constantly battling the 2 sides of the fence these days. Do I encompass myself with every piece of my child's life, forgetting housework, the troubles of the taxes getting done, the playroom that needs organizing, etc? Or do I pay attention to each of those while forfetting time with my first born that no other child in our family will ever receive, there will never again be just one (God willing) to put all my attention in to. Is this not the constant cry of any mother or father?
After reading that quote and quite a bit of her blog God quickly whispered to me...LET GO and LET ME!!! I've always been one to fly by the seat of my pants but most of the time this flight takes me no where but right back where I started!
I pray that God will allow me to open my heart, life, mind and planning to His will, to His timing, to His choice and ultimately receive that best for me and my family that I know and believe is in His plan.
I pray each of you will also remember that the choice of joy and how you define its true place is so much easier if we allow Him the choice! Afterall, He loves us and our children more than we could ever imagine (unbelievable, I know)!

Busy Body

2009-01-27T11:33:00.004-06:00

We have been going non-stop these past couple weeks! From birthdays, getting in 2 new teeth and just exploring, we've been on the go!

Happy 2nd Birthday, Evie!! We had a blast with you at Pump It Up!

Happy 3rd Birthday, Andrew! He wouldn't stay still long enough for Tripp but he and Anna Claire love each other!

New favorite toy...balloons!!

Playing with Hayes and trying to figure out what sharing was all about!

Not too sure about Hayes' new puppy, Gus, and his teeth!

Good Times

2009-01-14T20:30:00.004-06:00

I can't believe the calender is telling me our precious little baby boy is 7 months old this week! I remember being younger and wishing I were older, could do more, could have more freedom, could be a "grown-up". But time is always bitter sweet, especially as you watch it grow up and go by without even asking if you were ready! Tripp has given us more smiles in our day, more laughter as a family, and brought on the realization that you can always love much more than you ever imagined!

Where did our baby boy go???

Happy New Year and Hotty Toddy

2009-01-08T15:43:00.008-06:00

Wow, time flies over the holidays! We had a wonderful 1st Christmas with Tripp and all his cousins and seeing Christmas through the eyes of a child changes every aspect!
When we got back, we packed again and left for Dallas to see Bennett and The Rebels in The Cotton Bowl. It was the longest I'd been away from my little buddy (5 DAYS!!) so it was a little bittersweet. But, turned out to be worth every minute on Friday as we celebrated a sweet victory in the last game at Cotton Bowl Stadium against a #8 team!!! These are a few pics from the past 2 weeks or so.....

The Santa suit was a big hit

Tripp and Aunt Amy opening his presents, the day after Christmas! We didn't quite make it to open the night of!

New Years Eve in Dallas

At the game

Our new ride!!

Ho Ho Ho

2008-12-22T12:18:00.003-06:00

It's hard to believe that Christmas is already here and we have someone new to enjoy this year! We made the venture over to Bass Pro Shop to see their Santa and of course he had to wear his own "Ho Ho" (as my niece, Lindsey calls him) outfit!
Have a wonderful Christmas and even more joyous New Year!
Happy Birthday, Jesus!

Tripp with sweet Emily

We love the Christmas Tree and have to touch it at least once a day!

Playing on our new favorite thing-the dishwasher!

Santa at Bass Pro Shop

Trying to get some cute shots on the front porch....

Tripp's Dedication

2008-12-16T20:15:00.003-06:00

Thank you Aunt Amy for capturing the beautiful weekend for us! We are so honored to be this beautiful baby boy's parents and dedicating him to the Lord was a moment in both of our lives we will always hold close to our hearts! Thank you, Lord, for your indescribable gifts!

God shows His beautiful creativity when He creates each of us!

My favorite face!

Our little family (No, this is not our Christmas tree! We were at Ridgeland HS)

So happy!

He loves his cousin, Elizabeth

Oh the Places You'll Go...

2008-12-11T16:43:00.006-06:00

Well, Tripp is officially crawling! No more of the army scoot, inchworm stuff. It's fullfledged, all out crawling!! I have found him in places I never imagined a baby would ever fit, find or climb! He has a huge obsession with Fred (definitely not mutual yet) and if he's not chasing him he is trying to climb in his bouncy seat, chew on the fireplace, bar stools or a chair in our keeping room as well as other's baby carriers (see pic with Anna Claire Smitherman).
The other morning I went in the laundry room to fold some clothes and upon returning Tripp was gone! I heard some paper(another strange obsession) rummaging and proceeded to find him in Jay's office playing with his ad cards...wonderful! He is fond of shoes as well which runs in the family already so I think we're in trouble! They need to make protective head and knee wear for these babes.
We have had fun watching what he chooses to get in to and it has definitely changed the routine of my day but I wouldn't trade it for the world!
The collage is just a FEW of the places we find him these days(and one of the "snow" today) Usually where Fred is, there Tripp will be also!

Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T12:34:00.004-06:00

Thanksgiving night we went to my aunt's house in Memphis and were able to get all 4 cousins together. After many tries, these are some of the only pics that turned out....notice Tripp finds it hard to sit still (like father like son)!!

Benton, Lindsey and Tripp

Alice, Benton, Lindsey and Tripp

Poor Linds, she was trying to be so sweet but Tripp was making that pretty tough!

Moving again!

Cabin Fun

2008-12-01T12:31:00.001-06:00

After the Rebels beat up on the Bulldogs, we went to Jay's family cabin for the weekend! Tripp finally met his cousin, Conner and they had a blast playing!

I think Tripp wanted some kisses!

5 Months Old

2008-11-19T07:56:00.007-06:00

It's hard to believe that 5 months ago we were in the hospital waiting to find out what this precious gift was!!
Tripp has grown SO fast and has been doing so many fun things:

-Getting on all fours, moving his knees but not quite figuring out that he can crawl....still amazes me how fast he can move!

-Has 2 TEETH and they are sharp!
-He is infatuated with Fred and everything he does...Fred doesn't quite feel the same way and has been showing out by getting in to things that he never used to do!

-Rolls from back to front (this is kind of funny to watch when he doesn't quite make it all the way:)
-Talks, screams(in a good way) and blows bubbles which sometimes turns out to be just spitting
-Grabs EVERYTHING, from my hair, to my cell phone, and my food! No more peaceful eating with him in my lap
-Giggles when we play peek-a-boo and when I sing "Amzing Grace"...no other song makes him laugh which cracks me up at the same time!
-Loves to eat everything but peaches (terrible diaper rash) and is even on to the stage 2 foods
-Likes to watch sportscenter and football with Jay
-Can find his paci, pick it up and put it back in his mouth, though not always the right way

Tripp and the paci from emily witcher on Vimeo.

-Real into any other "small person"...he had just bitten Hayes' booty before I took this pic

The greatest is when he smiles when he hears mine or Jay's voice and breaks his neck looking for us!
Thank you God for this beautiful, healthy baby boy!

Christmas Cards

2008-11-11T10:28:00.007-06:00

Cards are completely custom or you can send me some colors/ideas of what you like. I can also work off of a photo that you love for ideas! Feel free to email me: emwitcher@aol.com for prices and questions!

Christmas Card examples
Personalized and Printed quickly!

Worth Your Time!

2008-11-11T07:37:00.002-06:00

These are some sweet teacher friends of mine that are VERY talented and have some amazing things! Come on out and do some shopping without the lines!

Monkeying Around

2008-11-03T07:51:00.001-06:00

Our little monkey was out and about Halloween night! He actually did really well with the whole costume thing and LOVED the banana he had to chew on. He is chewing on anything he can get his hands on and that little tooth is showing finally and sharp as a razor! I can't believe my little baby has a tooth already!

Getting ready to Trick-or-Treat

Our sweet friend, Amaris, who will be bringing Tripp a friend to play with in February! We can't wait to meet you, Bradley!!

Such a great family photo (I'm kidding completely)! Notice Fred was dressed as Yoda but not real excited about the whole thing!

Chewing AGAIN!

Happy Fall Y'all

2008-10-29T15:40:00.003-05:00

My sweet friend, Monique, took some pictures of Tripp last week sitting in her beatiful pumpkins! They turned out precious!

4 months

2008-10-20T16:51:00.001-05:00

Tripp is growing like a weed and the happiest baby I've seen in a l0ng time!! He's all about tummy time, rolling over, attempting to crawl (scary!!!) and actually has the glimpse of a tooth (even scarier!!!)

Love that dimple!

Poor Fred thinks, "Maybe if I lie next to him I'll get loved on again too..." Tripp is fascinated with him though and I keep telling Fred they will be best friends before long!

He started on the opposite end of the room and it only took him 2 minutes to get where I found him

WOW!

2008-10-20T08:08:00.002-05:00

I found this story on a friend's blog and it really shows the way our Lord sifts through our every day messes to show us that He has been there before and there is no need for us to ever feel alone!
I hope it speaks to you the way it has me.

“Jacob, where do you find the strength to carry on in life?”

“Life is often heavy only because we attempt to carry it,” said Jacob. “But I do find a strength in the ashes.”

“In the ashes?” asked Mr. Gold.

“Yes,” said Jacob, with a confirmation that seemed to have traveled a great distance.

“You see, Mr. Gold, each of us is alone. Each of us is in the great darkness of our ignorance. And, each of us is on a journey.

“In the process of our journey, we must bend to build a fire for light, and warmth, and food.

“But when our fingers tear at the ground, hoping to find the coals of another’s fire, what we often find is the ashes.

“And, in those ashes, which will not give us light or warmth, there may be sadness, but there is also testimony.

“Because these ashes tell is that somebody else has been in the night, somebody else has bent to build a fire, and somebody else has carried on.

“And that can be enough, sometimes.”

~Noah benShea

Portraits

2008-10-15T16:25:00.004-05:00

My cousin, Anne, is an amazing artist and she is FINALLY advertising it to more than just family and close friends...who really have to sneak a look at her talents because she's so modest! Here is the link to her recent blog. She can get these done fairly quickly and make amazing gifts! Price wise, she is VERY reasonable and the portraits look like a black and white picture! Please feel free to ask me as well if you have any questions or would like to contact her.

Anne Fairey Portraits

Some new art

2008-10-07T13:26:00.002-05:00

A recent painting I did for a friend's nursery that was made to match her fabrics

Little Pig

2008-10-04T09:27:00.006-05:00

Well, we REALLY appreciate all the great comments and suggestions. After seeing the doctor, reflux was ruled out as well as any other medical problem. What we have on our hands is a growing boy that LOVES to eat and has been trying to tell his mama that he's still hungry after that last bottle! So, we started rice cereal a little early (should have listened to you Jenny)and he's back to sleeping through the night again! Although I'm not so sure how much really reaches his tummy...

That's all I get??

But this is the result....a happy little lamb!

HELP!!!

2008-10-02T07:50:00.002-05:00

Some of you may laugh and say I should count my blessings but this week has killed me! Tripp has been a great sleeper for the past month or so until just this week. He has gone to bed after his last bottle around 7-7:30 and slept great until about 2:00....then all hell breaks loose! He can't get settled, kicks his legs and is arching his back. If he's on his stomach I roll him to his back and vice-versa. I thought at first it might be gas with all the leg kicking so I tried some Mylicon(sometimes I think this stuff is a mental fix more than anything) but that only soothes him for about 30 minutes which is enough time for me to get back in to bed and close my eyes. Then it stars all over again!
I'm not picking him up and don't talk to him because I don't want him to think this is the way things are going to be every night and I refuse to start a mid-nite feeding again! But last night he was SCREAMING so after changing him, I tried rocking him but that just led to a bloody lip, mine of course, from him clawing and grabbing at me! Finally, I turned on his mobile that he usually loves and just slept in his chair, only to be woken up again at 6:00.
He has been drooling heavily for a month now and loves to suck on his hands or anything else in arms reach so I'm really wondering if this is a teething thing??? But, he doesn't cry at all during the day and is the happiest baby I've seen so what's the deal?
HELP!!!!! I'm open to any and every idea/suggestion!

Motor Mouth

2008-09-29T17:45:00.000-05:00

Thank the Lord for Baby Einstein!!

Tripp talking from emily witcher on Vimeo.

Funny Boy

2008-09-25T13:58:00.003-05:00

Tripp is getting so big and makes us laugh with new things he does every day!

Taking "lowriding" as low as we could go...this is a regular occurence now! But he never cries when he gets to this point

Funny faces

Our new favorite seat

Our new favorite way to nap

3 Months Old

2008-09-15T13:02:00.000-05:00

Time Flies...

Baby Bulldog

2008-09-14T11:03:00.003-05:00

Saturday was Tripp's first trip to Starkville. Although the game ended with a terrible outcome, for both State and Auburn, Tripp did great and didn't cry one time the entire day! I think we will start raising him as a Georgia fan to avoid all the disappointment being a State or Ole Miss fan can bring....why do we not have one school???

#2 and #3

He was so tired but barely slept with all that was going on!

#2 and #1 (Jay's dad) before the game

The old wise one in deep thought BEFORE the game

My precious friend, Lindsey, and me

Little Rebel

2008-09-03T09:30:00.002-05:00

I ventured to Oxford Saturday in the heat to show Tripp the best tailgating in the country;) We went to the game til halftime then passed out at the DG house! Meanwhile, daddy was in Louisiana watching his precious bulldogs fall apart! Oh the joy of being a State or Ole Miss fan!!

Uh-oh!

2008-09-03T09:17:00.003-05:00

Jay sucked his thumb from the moment he popped out until kindergarten!!! Well, we always joke about it but the other morning I found this...

Then, the last two nights the phrase, "Like father, like son" was never so evident to me!

Helping daddy with his fantasy football draft

"Guttin" in front of the tv watching ESPN. This is why I'm such a sports nut....I don't have a choice! What's a girl to do??

2008-08-26T13:11:00.005-05:00

Last week we were in Tupelo and Memphis again. We went to Memphis to celebrate my mom's side of the family's August Birthdays and my grandparent's 60th wedding anniversary...WOW, we're only on year 4!! Then we headed to Tupelo for a Sip-n-See (again) for Tripp with Jay's mother's friends. It was wonderful and Tripp was definitely a sport, not crying once!
We also had our 2 month check up this week! We are weighing in at 13 lbs and 24 1/2 inches long!! Thank God for a beautiful, happy and healthy baby!

Cousin Elizabeth and Baby Tripp...she was being patriotic I guess??

Uncle "Bobby" and Tripp

Tripp is a "trip"

2008-08-21T08:17:00.004-05:00

The other morning I put Tripp in his bouncy seat, walked in the laundry room and came back to find him "lowriding"!! He now refuses to be strapped in (don't call child services) and scoots his way down to the end every time we put him in it! He cries when we straighten him up so we just let him lowride all the time now! Jay said all he needs is a remote and he'd be ready to go! And yes, he has on a romper that says "Rockstar" on it!!

2 months

2008-08-11T16:33:00.004-05:00

I can't believe that Tripp has been here for 2 months already! He is really showing his personality now, smiles and "talks" all the time. His bouncy seat is his favorite place to hang out. He gets a huge kick out of the noises, music and moving animals on it. He started sleeping in his crib for naps and I noticed that he slept for about 2 hours so I tried it at night too and he really sleeps a lot better and only wakes up for his 2 feedings! We slept til 7 this morning after our 3:00 feeding which was a dream for me!

Smiles!

2008-08-05T08:12:00.002-05:00

It's hard to catch a good smile but I caught a few!!

Family Time

2008-08-04T17:38:00.003-05:00

While Jay was at furniture market last week Tripp and I took off to Memphis and Tupelo for some good grandparent time!

Lindsey making me some soup in the pool

Tripp swimming with Nani

Tripp with Gege (Jay's dad)

When Jay got home the boys passed out!!

Four Fabulous Years!

2008-07-24T08:54:00.004-05:00

Today is our 4 year anniversary! It's amazing how many memories can go in to 9 years of a relationship. Jay is an amazing husband, loyal friend and now a fabulously loving father! Thank you for loving us and making our lives much fuller and happier every day!

Our wedding party

First Dance

Still smiling 4 years later!

"I thank my God every time I remember you"

One Month

2008-07-21T15:10:00.004-05:00

Wow! Time sure does fly when you are sleep deprived and kissing on a little baby so much your mouth hurts!! Tripp is growing and changing every day. He's got to be close to the 10 pound mark because picking him up isn't as easy as it once was and I know it only gets harder! Smiles are starting but nothing continuous yet so I keep the camera close by for that!

Bath time! Took this while he was in my arms so excuse the off "centeredness"...just too funny to miss!

My niece Lindsey. She was showing me how to swim like a "Tanda Bear" in her "ponies" as she calls those pigtails!

Uncle Jon getting baby Tripp in to the pool at my parent's house for the first time...he LOVED it!

Get me out of here, Mom!!

Welcome to the World Baby Boy!

2008-07-13T10:38:00.003-05:00

My friend Mallorie just sent me the pics she took during my delivery and I couldn't help but fall in love with a few.
This says it all...

Proud grandparents

Proud Papa!

Just a Swingin'

2008-07-09T08:36:00.003-05:00

Thanks, Alison, for the swing you let us borrow!!! He's not real excited about it when we first put him in it but once it gets going he obviously enjoys it and it gives me a break from holding him til he falls asleep...although, I do love that part most of the time!

2 weeks old!

2008-07-02T13:57:00.005-05:00

Boy, time definitely does fly by! We had our 2 week checkup today and we are now weighing in at 8lbs 8ozs....yes, we LOVE to eat!! Been busy with Tripp's cousins in town too!

Our new little family...notice Fred doesn't look thrilled!

Another family portrait

Tripp and cousin Benton...they are only 5 weeks apart and Benton doubles him in size!

Me, Tripp, cousin Lindsey and my sister in law, Mary Kylie holding Benton

A closeup of those beautiful blues!

The First Week

2008-06-25T21:18:00.001-05:00

Make a Smilebox postcard

Tripp Witcher

2008-06-22T08:26:00.003-05:00

Finally!!! We are so excited that James Larry Witcher, III "Tripp" is here! He came on June 18, 2008 at 6:22 pm weighing 7 lbs 7ozs after a long day of labor that ended in a c-section. He is the most beautiful thing I have ever been a part of and looks a lot like his daddy! Of course, I will be updating again but wanted to say thank you to all for the wonderful prayers and calls that we have received over the past 9 months and recent days! God is SO unbelievabley good!

Freddie Wayne

2008-06-16T19:19:00.002-05:00

I wanted to give a little shout out to our best friend Fred! His days as #1 in our house are coming to an end but he is still the BEST dog I have ever had (I've had a lot of dogs) and we know he will be a fabulous big brother and pal to our little one coming to bombard his space!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Still Waiting....

2008-06-10T13:49:00.003-05:00

Well, we went to the doctor today for what I thought would be our last one before we met our little bundle. Not much has changed though since the last visit...still 2cm dilated and the baby is still high, which is definitely not what I wanted to hear considering that a c-section is more likely in that case. He gave us the option of being induced this weekend or waiting until the early part of next week just to see what the baby does. After many tears and prayers, we decided to wait and see what the Lord does in the life of this child. We will be going in Tuesday and more than likely have the peanut on Wednesday at some point. We ask for your continued prayers that every thing goes smoothly from here on out. We will definitely keep you posted though and appreciate all the phone calls and concern thus far!

We have a Nephew!!

2008-05-20T09:58:00.006-05:00

My brother and sister in law had their 2nd baby on the 15th, Benton David Ruff! He weighed in at 9lbs 6oz and is just as adorable as his big sister, princess Lindsey! Here are a few pics from the hospital and his first days home!

Prayer of a new mom...

2008-05-14T18:42:00.002-05:00

As I sit here tonight anticipating the next 4 (if not less) weeks, I find myself wishing it away. I was convicted today of this feeling and discovered myself praying aloud that I would cherish this time that God has given me as a mother that has not yet met her precious child. Not all women get to experience the joy and pains of motherhood or child bearing. This makes me hurt and sorry about any complaints that have ever left my lips during these past 8 1/2 months. God has placed this incredible miracle inside of me...I mean, who am I to expand His kingdom?? He bestows us with the pain and joy of childbirth when He could ultimately do it on His own. But, the effects would be different and the joy not the same and He knows the world would suffer greatly for missing this. I am constantly repeating this verse in my head:
"Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord,
the fruit of the womb a reward.
Like arrows in the hand of a warrior
are the children of one's youth.
Blessed is the man
who fills his quiver with them!"
Psalm 127:3
It must be God's way of reminding me that the reward ahead of us is greater than any experienced thus far so, BE PATIENT! This time will not come again and soon this day will be a memory that I look on with a huge smile and a little tear in my eye! Thank you God for being the amazing Father you are and blessing our lives so richly! Please continue to make me a great mother and Jay an incredible father!

Teachers Rock!

2008-05-07T15:14:00.004-05:00

My "teacher friends" are the best! They are not just teacher friends but great, honest and true friends that I have grown to love and don't know what I would do with out! Thanks for a wonderful shower on Saturday morning! It was fun to hang out and see every one again! Can't wait for all of us and the babies to get together and play (that means the grown-ups get to play too:)

Me, Cindy, Susan and Dixie

Getting closer...

2008-05-05T10:00:00.003-05:00

Our dear friends, Mallorie and Greg, threw us an amazing baby shower this weekend! She truly outdid herself. We can't thank everyone enough for being a part of it for Jay and me....and baby too! We are getting really anxious to meet this newest blessing, whatever "it" is, and having the sweetest gift God can give be a part of our lives!

Mallorie and me

The bunny at the drink table had a hanger around its neck that said, "Party at my crib....BYOB (bring your own bottle)

The adorable diaper cake center pieces

Jay's present...

Like father, like son/daughter....pray for me please!

It's a Baby Shower

2008-04-29T06:54:00.007-05:00

Here are a few pictures from a BEAUTIFUL baby shower that my mother's friends hosted for me! It was a gorgeous day and every thing turned out to be so much fun...including opening gifts!! My niece, Lindsey, was a big help too!

My sister in law, Mary Kylie, is due 3 weeks before me with a boy, Benton David Ruff. We can't wait to meet him and watch he and his cousin grow up together!!

A darling Birthday Plate that we will use for years to come!

My cousin Anne, who JUST had a baby...looks great!

The Witchers Weekend...

2008-04-13T20:59:00.001-05:00

Jay was really busy this weekend...then he woke up!

A little sneak peek...

2008-04-02T16:47:00.005-05:00

We got to do a 4-D sonogram this week and it was amazing to see our wittle Witcher's face! Although we don't know the sex every one seems to think it looks just like Jay and it's a boy. Hope so if that's the case but we are going to be ecstatic over any healthy baby!! Thanks again for all the prayers and love....only 10 weeks to go!

Lindsey's 2nd Birthday Bash!

2008-03-17T13:41:00.002-05:00

Here are a few from my niece, Lindsey's 2nd Birthday Party. It was supposed to be an Easter egg hunt and all sorts of stuff outside but the weather was awful so we were stuck in the garage. But, she didn't seem to care!

My Baby's Daddy...

2008-03-05T15:08:00.004-06:00

I saw this on someone elses blog and thought it was cute! Plus,I haven't updated in forever b/c my camera battery is dead and I can't find the charger...AHHHH!!!

1. Who is your man? JAY
2. How long have you been together? 99-now, about 91/2 years!!
3. How long did you date? see above and do the math - but subtract 2 months... we broke up and realized we were crazy to be apart
4. How old is your man? Almost 32!!!
5. Who eats more? Right now, me b/c I'm pregnant but definitely him regularly
6. Who said "I love you" first? We both did
7. Who is taller? Jay by about 6 inches or so
8. Who sings better? Since Jay was in the choir in high school probably him but I'm not all bad myself:)
9. Who is smarter? hmmm this one could get me in trouble... it depends on the subject =)
10. Whose temper is worse? Jay's for sure!
11. Who does the laundry? ME! Jay claims he doesn't know how to work the washer and dryer!
12. Who takes out the garbage? Jay...that's a boy job and I had 3 brothers so not for me
13. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Me.
14. Who pays the bills? I pay them but Jay makes the money that pays them
15. Who is better with the computer? Me.
16. Who mows the lawn? Jay...see #12 again and I never do it "right"
17. Who cooks dinner? usually me but Jay grills like a champ
18. Who drives when you are together? Jay
19. Who pays when you go out? both I guess
20. Who is most stubborn? Jay
21. Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Me
22. Whose parents do you see the most? Probably Jay's b/c of his work
23. Who kissed who first? He kissed me first
24. Who asked who out? Jay asked me out but I didn't want anything to do with him b/c he was older and moving soon but somehow he talked me in to it...glad he did!
25. Who proposed? Jay in NYC Rockefeller Center...AMAZING story!
26. Who is more sensitive? Me most of the time but Jay's pretty emotional, just ask his friends!
27. Who has more friends? Both
28. Who has more siblings? Me-3 brothers that I adore and Jay has 2 that I love to death as well!

I've been tagged!

2008-01-28T09:33:00.000-06:00

Cindy tagged me to write 7 things you may not know about me....

-I love kid's juice box drinks! Teaching school got me addicted to them and now I buy them buy the case load at Sam's (great pregnant craving)!
-I love to write. Rather it be a cheesy poem or just a simple card, it is one of my favorite things to do.
-I secretly want to be on America's Next Top Model or some sort of cheesy reality show...don't have a dramatic enough past though;)
-I want to start my own business and think of different venues every day! Just trying to figure out how to combine ALL my ideas!
-I think I'm on American Idol when in the car by myself.
-I love to organize other people's stuff...still working on my own, it's just something about other peoples things that makes it more interesting!
-I was in love with Jay the first time we met and we both laugh because we "just knew" like they tell you in the movies:)

Now I tag Jenny and Anna!

Praise!

2008-01-21T15:41:00.000-06:00

Thanks for all the prayers for Angela and her surgery! The doctor's removed a fist sized tumor and removed part of her colon. The results came back stating that it is Adneocarcinoma which is a slow growing cancer. They tested 44 lymphnodes and they each came back clear as well!!! Now she is just fighting pain, a high fever and long, sleepless nights. Please continue to pray for her husband, Jim and their precious 7 week old, Turner.
She will begin chemo next week and I know that will be a long emotional journey. Thanks again for all the emails, calls and prayers! Keep them up!