tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49051044629282396462024-03-12T17:34:31.177-07:00Hokies in the HollowHokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-18311630437911536072016-06-28T18:29:00.000-07:002016-06-28T18:29:26.527-07:00BaltimoreWow it has been a year since my last post! A lot has happened and William has grown soo much!! I wanted to post some pictures from our AWESOME trip to Baltimore. We had such a wonderful time and I loved a little bonding time with our little dude when Sean was in lecture. <br />
<br />
After a slight delay on the beltway... we arrived!!! We met our good friend Robin Dyer at a local restaurant. Unfortunately we had such a great time catching up that we didn't take a picture :( Luckily she is coming back to visit soon. <br />
<br />
Sean, being the foodie that he is, made reservations at The Capital Grill. It was a delightful dining experience (that's saying a lot when you have a 2.5 yr with you). The food and service were exquisite. Below is my crab stuffed lobster... delicious!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_yO5mi8kvrs/V3MeySVQEeI/AAAAAAAABfk/b3dd-6IS2gE_gnZdx95nJk6I6QtURvbGwCLcB/s1600/IMG_2159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_yO5mi8kvrs/V3MeySVQEeI/AAAAAAAABfk/b3dd-6IS2gE_gnZdx95nJk6I6QtURvbGwCLcB/s320/IMG_2159.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x7sCdtCnt30/V3MeyesPW5I/AAAAAAAABfg/PQ-EEBjcnNEFsX37b3bRlpdrQyuLa2oyACLcB/s1600/IMG_2160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x7sCdtCnt30/V3MeyesPW5I/AAAAAAAABfg/PQ-EEBjcnNEFsX37b3bRlpdrQyuLa2oyACLcB/s320/IMG_2160.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Afterwards we went exploring and found Pierce's Park. William played there for hours. It had this cool tube that he would run up and slide down. On the other side of the park there were xylophones. We met several other kids there and had a blast.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RlqJbr5o1_8/V3Mg1sHtaaI/AAAAAAAABiM/IudtJ57NEy4ezLZ9uYkSUQovC3vzvT-5wCK4B/s1600/Pierces-Park-by-Mahan-Rykiel-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RlqJbr5o1_8/V3Mg1sHtaaI/AAAAAAAABiM/IudtJ57NEy4ezLZ9uYkSUQovC3vzvT-5wCK4B/s320/Pierces-Park-by-Mahan-Rykiel-10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bTlehCey1Ts/V3Me2HCKAnI/AAAAAAAABgQ/RSpDgvIlrVQ5_nUrUl1EcQOKWi7PUqUPwCLcB/s1600/IMG_2166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bTlehCey1Ts/V3Me2HCKAnI/AAAAAAAABgQ/RSpDgvIlrVQ5_nUrUl1EcQOKWi7PUqUPwCLcB/s320/IMG_2166.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
The next morning, after our big meal at The Capital Grill, William and I took a run along the Harbor. We discovered the Children's Museum on our way back to the hotel. He loved the dinnosaurs.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JFRTbxFB_Bo/V3Me2VxM4HI/AAAAAAAABgU/F0VjQIHc9VQSBdVkew7msBXtjk2YD02_gCLcB/s1600/IMG_2167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JFRTbxFB_Bo/V3Me2VxM4HI/AAAAAAAABgU/F0VjQIHc9VQSBdVkew7msBXtjk2YD02_gCLcB/s320/IMG_2167.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
We had lots of rain, William wore his rain boots rain or shine. He loved carrying the umbrella, as mom and dad got wet :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UcvWBRvBX68/V3Me5ACb57I/AAAAAAAABgw/USMQq_u3lew1rrlWOTjVs0o2smsOItqTgCLcB/s1600/IMG_2174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UcvWBRvBX68/V3Me5ACb57I/AAAAAAAABgw/USMQq_u3lew1rrlWOTjVs0o2smsOItqTgCLcB/s320/IMG_2174.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We also had the opportunity to visit the Baltimore aquarium, which is beautiful. William was a bit overwhelmed, but he loved the dolphins and these tubes (no there are no sea creatures in the tubes). </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zdSAzuTw1bM/V3Me5Tb13ZI/AAAAAAAABg0/Lxw1IX4jvBY3a3Pk_ACk2ohl_ioY6rh4ACLcB/s1600/IMG_2176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zdSAzuTw1bM/V3Me5Tb13ZI/AAAAAAAABg0/Lxw1IX4jvBY3a3Pk_ACk2ohl_ioY6rh4ACLcB/s320/IMG_2176.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
After our delightful dinner, we revisted The Capital Grill for desert another night. William throughly enjoyed his berries and cream.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aIHLGGR4bMw/V3Me6P9hAsI/AAAAAAAABg8/rGE9ji5p6cw7u3T2ZFQOPU3rDjEyi0JaQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aIHLGGR4bMw/V3Me6P9hAsI/AAAAAAAABg8/rGE9ji5p6cw7u3T2ZFQOPU3rDjEyi0JaQCLcB/s320/IMG_2177.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This Rippley's Believe It or Not ball of granite floating on water was a favorite. We went up to examine it everytime we walked by it. It had many interesting facts about Baltimore and plenty of water to splash around too.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o7ucb3ucF7o/V3Me7Rppq7I/AAAAAAAABhQ/jP9OiE5Tr5gTPh2cqyRD06Z-5W6n6MZtACLcB/s1600/IMG_2181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o7ucb3ucF7o/V3Me7Rppq7I/AAAAAAAABhQ/jP9OiE5Tr5gTPh2cqyRD06Z-5W6n6MZtACLcB/s320/IMG_2181.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our last night we saw this amazing magician street preformer. He was funny and skilled. He may have also been a little crazy considering the tricks he did. In this picture he is standing on a cylinder with a skateboard, 4 plastic cups, and another skateboard and is juggling a fire baton, a bowling ball and a knife!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ixi66s_exfI/V3Me79dJiXI/AAAAAAAABhU/-qm80Ev_KMU4DmMa6HLlHe95Vqog8H-KACLcB/s1600/IMG_2183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ixi66s_exfI/V3Me79dJiXI/AAAAAAAABhU/-qm80Ev_KMU4DmMa6HLlHe95Vqog8H-KACLcB/s320/IMG_2183.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
On our last day William and I went for another run around the Harbor and explored a little. We found this cute little farmer's market. We bought some tea and colored, and fed the ducks :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wPVUHV6Xm_g/V3Me88-Lj0I/AAAAAAAABhk/IPdgBcXwv8gK22QqH69SorVeFWP176j3wCLcB/s1600/IMG_2185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wPVUHV6Xm_g/V3Me88-Lj0I/AAAAAAAABhk/IPdgBcXwv8gK22QqH69SorVeFWP176j3wCLcB/s320/IMG_2185.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0GF2HzLP8jw/V3Me_ACsBwI/AAAAAAAABh4/mguE3hRsSQ4ZYP3P5UEqtimAnjWO_vw9ACLcB/s1600/IMG_2187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0GF2HzLP8jw/V3Me_ACsBwI/AAAAAAAABh4/mguE3hRsSQ4ZYP3P5UEqtimAnjWO_vw9ACLcB/s320/IMG_2187.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Finally we headed back to our room to pack up. One of William's favorite "toys" was the phone in the room. After disconnecting it he made many phone calls. One time picked up the phone and said "This is Dr. Collins" in his sweet little voice. It melted my heart, then I thought, opps, I guess I have been on call too much lately. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qaZBYfMVl0w/V3Me_O25QqI/AAAAAAAABh0/q6O_qOS22-gV99ivVzN4rgKFSsW6ZaRUQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qaZBYfMVl0w/V3Me_O25QqI/AAAAAAAABh0/q6O_qOS22-gV99ivVzN4rgKFSsW6ZaRUQCLcB/s320/IMG_2188.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
After a relaxing trip we were happy to head home and see our pups. And sleep in our own beds. We will definitely be making more trips to Baltimore.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8fQtC05vYI/V3Me_ZimwcI/AAAAAAAABh8/N0LCgNKLj54cpGZJt3Wu3dE4VgCDh8HTwCLcB/s1600/IMG_2192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8fQtC05vYI/V3Me_ZimwcI/AAAAAAAABh8/N0LCgNKLj54cpGZJt3Wu3dE4VgCDh8HTwCLcB/s320/IMG_2192.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-56349578334422687342015-06-28T20:10:00.000-07:002015-06-28T20:24:35.301-07:00The BeachWe went to Hilton Head at the end of May for a pediatric conference. The conference was excellent! I got to catch up with great friends and we enjoyed the sun ;) William took a little while to warm up to the ocean, but once he did he LOVED it! We will definitely be planning another trip next year. <span id="goog_1172032091"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-USaAfzg6pBs/VZCz5pkVYwI/AAAAAAAABeE/H292V2hgruo/s1600/IMG_1136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-USaAfzg6pBs/VZCz5pkVYwI/AAAAAAAABeE/H292V2hgruo/s320/IMG_1136.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4FMNJtTEW7s/VZC0AGGDcFI/AAAAAAAABeM/QnCKBbMIoak/s1600/IMG_1137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4FMNJtTEW7s/VZC0AGGDcFI/AAAAAAAABeM/QnCKBbMIoak/s320/IMG_1137.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VpUuATjMT6I/VZC0Xh-UjRI/AAAAAAAABeU/YEiN1rGguDs/s1600/IMG_1139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VpUuATjMT6I/VZC0Xh-UjRI/AAAAAAAABeU/YEiN1rGguDs/s320/IMG_1139.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l31uYHB3FLA/VZC6L6qUTcI/AAAAAAAABek/-LIWgWV6cF0/s1600/IMG_1192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l31uYHB3FLA/VZC6L6qUTcI/AAAAAAAABek/-LIWgWV6cF0/s320/IMG_1192.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sofia Hardee, DO, Breann Bailey, MD and Me :) Great company, great conference, great vacay!!! </div>
<span id="goog_1172032090"></span>Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-35160319952331561432015-05-04T20:58:00.000-07:002015-06-10T19:18:12.278-07:00New OrleansEvery year we go to JazzFest in New Orleans. Last year we stayed home with our sweet baby boy. This was our first time away from him. He spent the week with Grandma Pat and Miss Christina, I don't think he missed us a bit. <br />
<br />
Here are some of the high lights of our trip :)<br />
<br />
Our first night, we (Steve, Jasmine, Sean and I) dined at "Fish", delicious food!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PCUlvWdwZXM/VUgrrOPo32I/AAAAAAAABZ0/VnLYwVd0esA/s1600/IMG_0986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PCUlvWdwZXM/VUgrrOPo32I/AAAAAAAABZ0/VnLYwVd0esA/s320/IMG_0986.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The next day we headed to Jazz Fest, of course.... We were greated by the traditional dancers<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mBa6_ZqEGlQ/VUgyvkkx-FI/AAAAAAAABcE/wsui7awJdZ4/s1600/nola-indians.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mBa6_ZqEGlQ/VUgyvkkx-FI/AAAAAAAABcE/wsui7awJdZ4/s320/nola-indians.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"Okay, but first Crawfish..." this was Jasmine's motto all weekend :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-itI-r2YoxEc/VUgvGJOJEnI/AAAAAAAABaA/aSVoNRn6qy8/s1600/IMG_1924.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-itI-r2YoxEc/VUgvGJOJEnI/AAAAAAAABaA/aSVoNRn6qy8/s320/IMG_1924.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Don't forget to suck the heads, it's the best part!!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bFnt8zDmg9I/VUgvMKLJ1eI/AAAAAAAABaI/dqbo5FTduJA/s1600/IMG_1926.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bFnt8zDmg9I/VUgvMKLJ1eI/AAAAAAAABaI/dqbo5FTduJA/s320/IMG_1926.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
We even fit in a little great music :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0TRs0rqGIW8/VUgvSNpN7xI/AAAAAAAABaQ/mWZo2G6ku30/s1600/IMG_0989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0TRs0rqGIW8/VUgvSNpN7xI/AAAAAAAABaQ/mWZo2G6ku30/s320/IMG_0989.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="text-align: center;">After a day enjoying music we headed downtown... first stop Pat O'Briens</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-__DEClG5ko8/VUgvsOVm2JI/AAAAAAAABao/MUGioVGtZqY/s1600/IMG_1005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-__DEClG5ko8/VUgvsOVm2JI/AAAAAAAABao/MUGioVGtZqY/s320/IMG_1005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DPHqsRU3_Sg/VUg1L6QZd6I/AAAAAAAABcQ/Xq6as-_z4DM/s1600/cuz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DPHqsRU3_Sg/VUg1L6QZd6I/AAAAAAAABcQ/Xq6as-_z4DM/s320/cuz.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The cousins, Tom Leonard, Steve Burrington and me of course...</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Sean wandered down the alley to capture this awesome sight, and discovered a bar that served bacon with your drink from 11-12!!!! He was one happy guy!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bgBBJ7J9MzI/VUgvb6qcowI/AAAAAAAABaY/QD42pQIn9h4/s1600/IMG_1929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bgBBJ7J9MzI/VUgvb6qcowI/AAAAAAAABaY/QD42pQIn9h4/s320/IMG_1929.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ep5GeKlkoFs/VUgvjQazJ-I/AAAAAAAABag/vT6fcKlu7y0/s1600/IMG_1930.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ep5GeKlkoFs/VUgvjQazJ-I/AAAAAAAABag/vT6fcKlu7y0/s320/IMG_1930.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
My drink wasn't bad either, she made us drinks with Tequila XO, Rum Chata and cool brew (coffee), absolutely delicious!! May have been the best drink I have ever had (with the exception of straight tequila of course)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then we had Saturday brunch at my very favorite stop, Commanders Palace. The food was exceptional and the company (Sean, Ann, Steve Burrington, Tom & Sommer Leonard, Jasmine Burrington) wonderful! Can't wait to go back next year!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j7lLJ25TaXk/VUgv0zhT9GI/AAAAAAAABaw/9QwbSLhVYFI/s1600/IMG_1942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j7lLJ25TaXk/VUgv0zhT9GI/AAAAAAAABaw/9QwbSLhVYFI/s320/IMG_1942.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Sunday at Jazz Fest we picked up where we left off... Sean met an old friend/athlete, Andrew Miller who now plays for the New Orleans Saints. My favorite quote of the day was "that guy's big he should play football". hehe <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tZ8BRIojqSg/VUgwBAaI52I/AAAAAAAABa4/_i7Se7MYRmY/s1600/IMG_1980.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tZ8BRIojqSg/VUgwBAaI52I/AAAAAAAABa4/_i7Se7MYRmY/s320/IMG_1980.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l0Uts5NUpxw/VUgx5m0rodI/AAAAAAAABbM/RSjfa5WrpOM/s1600/IMG_1982.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l0Uts5NUpxw/VUgx5m0rodI/AAAAAAAABbM/RSjfa5WrpOM/s320/IMG_1982.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
We enjoyed great artists, like Keith Urban, Hoiser, Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett and to my surprise Pittbull (I loved Pittbull!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I6smHB302LY/VUgyKH2fjCI/AAAAAAAABbc/hdWqusSVi20/s1600/IMG_1990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I6smHB302LY/VUgyKH2fjCI/AAAAAAAABbc/hdWqusSVi20/s320/IMG_1990.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Then there were the street preformers :) They were the greatest!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bwefilbelFI/VUgySozRQEI/AAAAAAAABbk/tS1du44sa9k/s1600/IMG_2001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bwefilbelFI/VUgySozRQEI/AAAAAAAABbk/tS1du44sa9k/s320/IMG_2001.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
There were even artist, I was impressed with this one, a marionette was doing the painting!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L3rxhLaCgPQ/VUgyYyDCSaI/AAAAAAAABbs/pR2M5axi3Is/s1600/IMG_2005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L3rxhLaCgPQ/VUgyYyDCSaI/AAAAAAAABbs/pR2M5axi3Is/s320/IMG_2005.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
At the end of the day we gave our chairs to a local, she was so excited she even did a dance for us.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7KFQ1HFAnyw/VUgygSPSuQI/AAAAAAAABb0/9wXpxIvP3-8/s1600/IMG_2007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7KFQ1HFAnyw/VUgygSPSuQI/AAAAAAAABb0/9wXpxIvP3-8/s320/IMG_2007.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Then it was time to go home... We had a wonderful time with family and exploring one of our favorite cities. We will definitely be going back. There was a little glitch in our travel plans, a severe storm hit the New Orleans airport. Two tornados touched ground, all flights were diverted. The airport lost power, then the generator died. We finally gave in and rented a car. We had a wonderful peaceful drive home. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ziYkvItV2ak/VUgymwdsopI/AAAAAAAABb8/Ti9AkJtwoYA/s1600/IMG_1033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ziYkvItV2ak/VUgymwdsopI/AAAAAAAABb8/Ti9AkJtwoYA/s320/IMG_1033.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The only disappointment was that we didn't make it home to tuck our little guy in... however, I Grandma Collins and Miss Christina kept him quite busy...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eB1WL05BUAM/VUg8pTfM45I/AAAAAAAABc4/tX-TgcFTz_E/s1600/20150426_151052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eB1WL05BUAM/VUg8pTfM45I/AAAAAAAABc4/tX-TgcFTz_E/s200/20150426_151052.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoFrRHo_qXM/VUg8qX75XtI/AAAAAAAABdE/AjUEoDiNT4s/s1600/20150427_152756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoFrRHo_qXM/VUg8qX75XtI/AAAAAAAABdE/AjUEoDiNT4s/s200/20150427_152756.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sCFkO-X3Feg/VUg8rTCz49I/AAAAAAAABdM/LvKGVMzwhXo/s1600/20150427_154329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sCFkO-X3Feg/VUg8rTCz49I/AAAAAAAABdM/LvKGVMzwhXo/s200/20150427_154329.jpg" width="112" /></a></div>
Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-39463400035149854632015-04-20T17:27:00.000-07:002015-04-20T17:32:18.736-07:00Easter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy Easter.....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
William was not very enthusiatic about our first "photo session" as you can see....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vOdefMz63vM/VTWRSoVeQEI/AAAAAAAABXs/l4Gik8E4omU/s1600/IMG_1486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vOdefMz63vM/VTWRSoVeQEI/AAAAAAAABXs/l4Gik8E4omU/s1600/IMG_1486.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
But he perked up a little to hunt eggs<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MB3m36V5nc4/VTWRcFrPnSI/AAAAAAAABX0/xTZg63YrHGo/s1600/IMG_1493.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MB3m36V5nc4/VTWRcFrPnSI/AAAAAAAABX0/xTZg63YrHGo/s1600/IMG_1493.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
We practiced egg hunting in the back yard. To prepare for the "big egg hunt"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fgf0LPNfTrE/VTWRgN31GPI/AAAAAAAABX8/FnrrG05RKII/s1600/IMG_0923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fgf0LPNfTrE/VTWRgN31GPI/AAAAAAAABX8/FnrrG05RKII/s1600/IMG_0923.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Easter morning William opened his first Easter basket, it had all kinds of goodies, but the only thing he was interested in was the chocolate (of course)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gmu-0PfMD4U/VTWU1EWZYaI/AAAAAAAABYQ/lII_x-5Q_jg/s1600/IMG_1499.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gmu-0PfMD4U/VTWU1EWZYaI/AAAAAAAABYQ/lII_x-5Q_jg/s1600/IMG_1499.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
We finally made it to the "big egg hunt". Daddy practiced his BBQ skills to prepare for this seasons competitions. William had his own little egg hunt, as he was not quite fast enough to keep up with the other kiddos<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w67kT_sEeVc/VTWU5szt4bI/AAAAAAAABYY/ZdxtmGSjAvw/s1600/IMG_1514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w67kT_sEeVc/VTWU5szt4bI/AAAAAAAABYY/ZdxtmGSjAvw/s1600/IMG_1514.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-STiYAMxk2bE/VTWU9VHGyaI/AAAAAAAABYg/cTzX4bjw82w/s1600/IMG_1515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-STiYAMxk2bE/VTWU9VHGyaI/AAAAAAAABYg/cTzX4bjw82w/s1600/IMG_1515.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our family picture... you gotta love the hair.....</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bNc2MGIKgas/VTWVfK-aR4I/AAAAAAAABZg/duvB-sYkJ2U/s1600/IMG_1541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bNc2MGIKgas/VTWVfK-aR4I/AAAAAAAABZg/duvB-sYkJ2U/s1600/IMG_1541.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PBYp35Ig5no/VTWVUvi9X_I/AAAAAAAABZI/MH1E7HneSlc/s1600/IMG_1538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PBYp35Ig5no/VTWVUvi9X_I/AAAAAAAABZI/MH1E7HneSlc/s1600/IMG_1538.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_wh5KSr1jwg/VTWVIQT8VoI/AAAAAAAABY4/GaMTzkRTci0/s1600/IMG_1534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_wh5KSr1jwg/VTWVIQT8VoI/AAAAAAAABY4/GaMTzkRTci0/s1600/IMG_1534.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Practicing walking with the best nanny in the world, Miss Christina</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ON1KcRqI1_k/VTWVAKe8ZQI/AAAAAAAABYo/xJ6qPz5HDiA/s1600/IMG_1526.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ON1KcRqI1_k/VTWVAKe8ZQI/AAAAAAAABYo/xJ6qPz5HDiA/s1600/IMG_1526.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
Then to top off a wonderful weekend, we had Amber, Jasper, Jett and Auntie Liz visit. William loved him some time with Ber. We can't wait from them to come back!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PV27ggKOlsg/VTWVefzHFxI/AAAAAAAABZY/61tC1CdrL-I/s1600/IMG_1556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PV27ggKOlsg/VTWVefzHFxI/AAAAAAAABZY/61tC1CdrL-I/s1600/IMG_1556.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NdKWWtdp1oQ/VTWVb7oTFHI/AAAAAAAABZQ/z4yX7NnFjCw/s1600/IMG_1555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NdKWWtdp1oQ/VTWVb7oTFHI/AAAAAAAABZQ/z4yX7NnFjCw/s1600/IMG_1555.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-58005233898082682332015-04-02T20:31:00.000-07:002015-04-02T20:31:50.595-07:002015 NCAA Wrestling Nationals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
2015 Wrestling Nationals!<br />
<br />
After years of watching wrestling I have become addicted. I love the sport. Sean has worked very closely rehabbing the kids this year and that makes it even more personal. I always look forward to NCAA Wrestling Nationals. This year they were in St. Louis, here are some pics...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vobZ_sEmgbk/VR4BckQEwcI/AAAAAAAABU8/454uFNKsM3Q/s1600/IMG_0864.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vobZ_sEmgbk/VR4BckQEwcI/AAAAAAAABU8/454uFNKsM3Q/s1600/IMG_0864.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
William LOVED seeing Grandma and Grandpa Shaw! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kAUsSiAoKDE/VR4Bd_36rrI/AAAAAAAABVI/tnpOyf2EIWg/s1600/IMG_0865.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kAUsSiAoKDE/VR4Bd_36rrI/AAAAAAAABVI/tnpOyf2EIWg/s1600/IMG_0865.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hyhLtvxjOy4/VR4BgwLP2EI/AAAAAAAABV0/hZkuFbSUzu4/s1600/IMG_0871.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hyhLtvxjOy4/VR4BgwLP2EI/AAAAAAAABV0/hZkuFbSUzu4/s1600/IMG_0871.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Wrestling matches all day, can wear a little dude out.... This leads to double thumbing<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TjYeDQEp2s4/VR4BfJI76mI/AAAAAAAABVg/zzbhZUpMqlw/s1600/IMG_0869.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TjYeDQEp2s4/VR4BfJI76mI/AAAAAAAABVg/zzbhZUpMqlw/s1600/IMG_0869.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="text-align: center;">View from our hotel. If you ever go to St. Louis... avoid the Crowne Plaza. However, I would recommend the Hilton down town, everyone was sooo nice! Bent over backwards to make our stay enjoyable. </span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pn2gQBsz1Pw/VR4BeVk7UxI/AAAAAAAABVQ/SKv11WMbCAE/s1600/IMG_0867.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pn2gQBsz1Pw/VR4BeVk7UxI/AAAAAAAABVQ/SKv11WMbCAE/s1600/IMG_0867.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ocFO7N8s7Lw/VR4BiPyPV4I/AAAAAAAABWE/J61b6vLJb-0/s1600/IMG_0873.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ocFO7N8s7Lw/VR4BiPyPV4I/AAAAAAAABWE/J61b6vLJb-0/s1600/IMG_0873.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Gooooo..... Hokies!!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_JrA0hBz4w/VR4BjuxUZSI/AAAAAAAABWQ/daWZ6r9wpfw/s1600/IMG_0875.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_JrA0hBz4w/VR4BjuxUZSI/AAAAAAAABWQ/daWZ6r9wpfw/s1600/IMG_0875.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After 3 days of competing, Virginia Tech had 4 All Americans! Ty Walls, Nick Brascetta, Zach Epperly and Devin Carter... the picture below is of Nick Brascetta </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W9AiloG6wFk/VR4BhRzHmzI/AAAAAAAABV8/a82J8TlKWNw/s1600/IMG_0872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W9AiloG6wFk/VR4BhRzHmzI/AAAAAAAABV8/a82J8TlKWNw/s1600/IMG_0872.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Overall we placed 10th in the nation... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KSXTl5GWEG8/VR4BcOLCn3I/AAAAAAAABU0/OwrjBMM0IVk/s1600/10981442_876689169054539_5035634642654404513_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KSXTl5GWEG8/VR4BcOLCn3I/AAAAAAAABU0/OwrjBMM0IVk/s1600/10981442_876689169054539_5035634642654404513_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This was Devin Carter's last year wrestling. I have enjoyed watching him wrestle for the last 5 years, he has incredible determination and strength. I am sad to see him leave the program but am so excited for what his future will bring to this talented young man.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z-b4rvmJDt8/VR4HU3_-DjI/AAAAAAAABWs/LrdNlJuzX30/s1600/20a37e03750c7d88739e05fcf1885cd3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z-b4rvmJDt8/VR4HU3_-DjI/AAAAAAAABWs/LrdNlJuzX30/s1600/20a37e03750c7d88739e05fcf1885cd3.jpg" height="284" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
William has already started training so he will be ready for Wrestling Nationals in 2033 :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w50zdiOruXg/VR4ILUFswXI/AAAAAAAABW4/QG_7ekEr-hQ/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w50zdiOruXg/VR4ILUFswXI/AAAAAAAABW4/QG_7ekEr-hQ/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wRuWVQEQmiM/VR4ILTwCCqI/AAAAAAAABW0/isocBQsHkw0/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wRuWVQEQmiM/VR4ILTwCCqI/AAAAAAAABW0/isocBQsHkw0/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We are looking forward to next year in NYC!!!</div>
Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-40515527819791530242014-08-29T21:39:00.001-07:002014-08-29T21:39:47.964-07:00Baptism<br />
<br />
William was baptized on August 16th.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ow6Qcd-D7Co/VAE5k9tQexI/AAAAAAAABPw/TaeJZg111wM/s1600/IMG_0978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ow6Qcd-D7Co/VAE5k9tQexI/AAAAAAAABPw/TaeJZg111wM/s1600/IMG_0978.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We had some very historic pieces we used during his baptism, the baptism gown and the baptism bowl.<br />
<br />
My grandmother, Maxine Huggard sent me two baptism gowns, only one fit. It had a note pinned to it that said ... "BABY DRESS WORN BY MRS. H.M. ROYAL 100 YEARS OLD"<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XB1APZIOBzE/VAFNnc2KyRI/AAAAAAAABSA/gRa4fXlkfvU/s1600/IMG_1115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XB1APZIOBzE/VAFNnc2KyRI/AAAAAAAABSA/gRa4fXlkfvU/s1600/IMG_1115.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
I did a little research... Mrs. H.M. Royal was Isabella Johnston Royal (my great, great grandmother) born in 1867. So if this gown was truly hers, it was 147 years old!! Pretty incredible! Here is William in it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9GHUm_LIA3w/VAE5eaAb7XI/AAAAAAAABPo/fQAHJbE97wk/s1600/DSCF8486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9GHUm_LIA3w/VAE5eaAb7XI/AAAAAAAABPo/fQAHJbE97wk/s1600/DSCF8486.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The baptism bowl came from Sean's family. It was used to baptize Sean's grandfather, John Benedict Forrest in 1909, his mother Patricia Duff Forrest in 1945, his brother Donal 1975, Sean in 1971 and William on Aug. 16, 2014. A span of 103 years!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oy70izz0yDg/VAFNprNSMdI/AAAAAAAABSI/g6nKMztB0ug/s1600/IMG_1118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oy70izz0yDg/VAFNprNSMdI/AAAAAAAABSI/g6nKMztB0ug/s1600/IMG_1118.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CJOgIY0W7QM/VAE5tOyyU1I/AAAAAAAABQA/Pd091Etm9YM/s1600/IMG_0987.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CJOgIY0W7QM/VAE5tOyyU1I/AAAAAAAABQA/Pd091Etm9YM/s1600/IMG_0987.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IDj1CZ5Q_O4/VAE5xbEh6MI/AAAAAAAABQQ/Q-0FP8f5hoc/s1600/IMG_1013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IDj1CZ5Q_O4/VAE5xbEh6MI/AAAAAAAABQQ/Q-0FP8f5hoc/s1600/IMG_1013.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was an amazing day!! We had both Sean and my family in town for the blessed event. The service was lead by Deacon Mike</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Of4YefvXjbE/VAE52toHEiI/AAAAAAAABQY/P2Ta2ec_RGs/s1600/IMG_1044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Of4YefvXjbE/VAE52toHEiI/AAAAAAAABQY/P2Ta2ec_RGs/s1600/IMG_1044.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EQVlqj429dI/VAE6YQn89ZI/AAAAAAAABRg/iqohXq-XnuI/s1600/IMG_1150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EQVlqj429dI/VAE6YQn89ZI/AAAAAAAABRg/iqohXq-XnuI/s1600/IMG_1150.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Grandparents were beaming :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h9jvrLIzipc/VAE5_F9nY4I/AAAAAAAABQw/ZiaqXnE2Amk/s1600/IMG_1062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h9jvrLIzipc/VAE5_F9nY4I/AAAAAAAABQw/ZiaqXnE2Amk/s1600/IMG_1062.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My Dad stood up with us and was a god-parent. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-68JD_ejE3i4/VAE56TXY13I/AAAAAAAABQk/vIZULRQiLAY/s1600/IMG_1058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-68JD_ejE3i4/VAE56TXY13I/AAAAAAAABQk/vIZULRQiLAY/s1600/IMG_1058.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Both my sister and Sean's brother participated in the ceremony..</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-840-f4bncps/VAE6NJor_-I/AAAAAAAABRI/GHMLcxlj3jU/s1600/IMG_1098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-840-f4bncps/VAE6NJor_-I/AAAAAAAABRI/GHMLcxlj3jU/s1600/IMG_1098.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tawqeICjRgY/VAE6IF9ZwsI/AAAAAAAABRA/dijKCtSwTfs/s1600/IMG_1071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tawqeICjRgY/VAE6IF9ZwsI/AAAAAAAABRA/dijKCtSwTfs/s1600/IMG_1071.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mark and Krista Rogers (pictured below with their children Connor and Keagan) were chosen as William's god-parents </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7e5ZNlHHfac/VAE6RJmtDqI/AAAAAAAABRQ/rmZtLl3iY5c/s1600/IMG_1105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7e5ZNlHHfac/VAE6RJmtDqI/AAAAAAAABRQ/rmZtLl3iY5c/s1600/IMG_1105.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Parents & Godparents</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yVPhO0NZvCw/VAE55lsjRhI/AAAAAAAABQg/mU0zpKy3dS8/s1600/IMG_1049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yVPhO0NZvCw/VAE55lsjRhI/AAAAAAAABQg/mU0zpKy3dS8/s1600/IMG_1049.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-egJ4QmGZV2Q/VAE6aQzB3PI/AAAAAAAABRo/2Dp4AXEs6Yo/s1600/IMG_1195.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-egJ4QmGZV2Q/VAE6aQzB3PI/AAAAAAAABRo/2Dp4AXEs6Yo/s1600/IMG_1195.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We are so blessed to have so many great friends and family that came out for this blessed day. William is truly a lucky child.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-13252865604756528042014-08-21T17:34:00.000-07:002015-04-20T17:35:29.304-07:00Smokin'For those of you that don't know Sean has really gotten into smoking. He and a couple friends Stephen and Brady Hypes have created a BBQ team "Still Workin' On It". We have attended 3 BBQ competitions this summer. We are still learning what the judges like, but I have to say these guys have done a great job!! And I have enjoyed sampling :) Here are some pictures....<br />
<br />
This was our first competition in Cannapolis, NC<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PLy07m_OgvQ/U-WL6JsUGGI/AAAAAAAABOs/iaTZNHlnZeI/s1600/IMG_1205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PLy07m_OgvQ/U-WL6JsUGGI/AAAAAAAABOs/iaTZNHlnZeI/s1600/IMG_1205.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UyFWU61GzHg/U-WMKzPIzsI/AAAAAAAABO0/1PwLt2SQu1Y/s1600/IMG_0826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UyFWU61GzHg/U-WMKzPIzsI/AAAAAAAABO0/1PwLt2SQu1Y/s1600/IMG_0826.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4K6cH9oj1J8/U-WMO-YyPqI/AAAAAAAABO8/FzEtuTVSSJw/s1600/IMG_0840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4K6cH9oj1J8/U-WMO-YyPqI/AAAAAAAABO8/FzEtuTVSSJw/s1600/IMG_0840.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
Free babysitter :)<br />
<br />
BBQ competition in Covington, VA....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w7iYnniwcgw/U-WMbOcsKTI/AAAAAAAABPM/F8Kq15AR1HY/s1600/IMG_1373.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w7iYnniwcgw/U-WMbOcsKTI/AAAAAAAABPM/F8Kq15AR1HY/s1600/IMG_1373.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Galax, "Smoke in the Mountains Barbeque Competition"<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0PI9Uh9QTV0/U-WDthjLjBI/AAAAAAAABOI/oiHZ8C-hO6Q/s1600/IMG_0035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0PI9Uh9QTV0/U-WDthjLjBI/AAAAAAAABOI/oiHZ8C-hO6Q/s1600/IMG_0035.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Our smoker ready to go :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LMiu1c7ylTY/U-WI8y5PB-I/AAAAAAAABOg/qqhBVMxnvD0/s1600/IMG_1369.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LMiu1c7ylTY/U-WI8y5PB-I/AAAAAAAABOg/qqhBVMxnvD0/s1600/IMG_1369.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Stephen and Brady Hypes getting the meat ready the night before :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I1FLEd5g4RE/U-WDnCw-c5I/AAAAAAAABOA/7QMzSZMBO-E/s1600/IMG_0052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I1FLEd5g4RE/U-WDnCw-c5I/AAAAAAAABOA/7QMzSZMBO-E/s1600/IMG_0052.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Sean working on Brisket.<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A2f5K983l84/U-WMSDn7ZgI/AAAAAAAABPE/LNe5nX_c6T4/s1600/IMG_0046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A2f5K983l84/U-WMSDn7ZgI/AAAAAAAABPE/LNe5nX_c6T4/s1600/IMG_0046.jpg" height="320" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
William trying his first biscuit :) He LOVED it!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 13px;">For more pics check out our facebook page, "Still Working on It"</span></div>
Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-9490084084962990522014-08-08T19:41:00.001-07:002014-08-08T19:45:21.680-07:00MichiganWe recently made a trip out to Western Michigan (Shelby), where I spent my summers growing up. It has so many very fond memories for me and Sean and I wanted to start making some with William. Unfortunately it was a little cold and William was not a fan of the water, but I know that will come :) Here are some fun pics from our trip...<br />
<br />
<br />
Getting ready for the day with great grandma Max...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-an8NdOMGPcs/U-Gl_5CtsJI/AAAAAAAABMY/8DggU9aQu_k/s1600/IMG_0018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-an8NdOMGPcs/U-Gl_5CtsJI/AAAAAAAABMY/8DggU9aQu_k/s1600/IMG_0018.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Hanging out in Great Grandma's front yard, enjoying the sun and green grass...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CpcvtDa5kxs/U-GmTCuy_TI/AAAAAAAABMo/bWtguhnm8wU/s1600/IMG_0926.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CpcvtDa5kxs/U-GmTCuy_TI/AAAAAAAABMo/bWtguhnm8wU/s1600/IMG_0926.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hanging at Great Grandma's :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Quality family time :)<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ro8RNyn5GMw/U-Gmc5azY-I/AAAAAAAABMw/aK-SXdnxctQ/s1600/IMG_0935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ro8RNyn5GMw/U-Gmc5azY-I/AAAAAAAABMw/aK-SXdnxctQ/s1600/IMG_0935.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Great Grandma Max</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iGtDPIAsr24/U-GmgTuojCI/AAAAAAAABM4/zMvgZIAQSng/s1600/IMG_0940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iGtDPIAsr24/U-GmgTuojCI/AAAAAAAABM4/zMvgZIAQSng/s1600/IMG_0940.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lLXGt54KMm8/U-Gmmap95zI/AAAAAAAABNA/5R4K3x_zbQg/s1600/IMG_0946.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lLXGt54KMm8/U-Gmmap95zI/AAAAAAAABNA/5R4K3x_zbQg/s1600/IMG_0946.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Our good family friends Dick and Chris dropped by to give us fresh cherries just off the trees! Such a treat!!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kQ8CWyjoQ-I/U-Gmq5F3f7I/AAAAAAAABNI/u6bh1RxZWAc/s1600/IMG_0023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kQ8CWyjoQ-I/U-Gmq5F3f7I/AAAAAAAABNI/u6bh1RxZWAc/s1600/IMG_0023.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh cherries!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XXxm875TJnY/U-GmuDISw6I/AAAAAAAABNQ/SurBZJsHjPk/s1600/IMG_0024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XXxm875TJnY/U-GmuDISw6I/AAAAAAAABNQ/SurBZJsHjPk/s1600/IMG_0024.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast on the porch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KrGaIsVc4o8/U-GmzR13QlI/AAAAAAAABNY/dmsVDMJ70oI/s1600/IMG_0027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KrGaIsVc4o8/U-GmzR13QlI/AAAAAAAABNY/dmsVDMJ70oI/s1600/IMG_0027.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ktcVu0eTJcg/U-Gm3wbZevI/AAAAAAAABNg/VR5odxTWf8c/s1600/IMG_0951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ktcVu0eTJcg/U-Gm3wbZevI/AAAAAAAABNg/VR5odxTWf8c/s1600/IMG_0951.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Michigan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our good family friend Sharon stopped by to say hello AND dropped off a delicious cherry pie!!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ne6UHXYH8HA/U-Gm6bkE0BI/AAAAAAAABNo/_TQLVUhcNM0/s1600/IMG_0028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ne6UHXYH8HA/U-Gm6bkE0BI/AAAAAAAABNo/_TQLVUhcNM0/s1600/IMG_0028.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">William with our good friend Sharon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ufyadl9q2nc/U-GnA7Ir6YI/AAAAAAAABNw/ewxDctUBEy0/s1600/IMG_0030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ufyadl9q2nc/U-GnA7Ir6YI/AAAAAAAABNw/ewxDctUBEy0/s1600/IMG_0030.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The drive home... </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We had a wonderful trip, but it was way too short! We are looking forward to our next trip! <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-73880358867189321172014-08-05T20:42:00.001-07:002014-08-05T20:45:27.142-07:00New York<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We finally made a trip to New York on the 4th of July weekend. It was unfortunately shorter than we would have liked, but were so thankful to have time to spend with Sean's family! William was almost 7 months old!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
William was quite fond of Uncle Donal!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zAHJYGdprCE/U9RukTA7s7I/AAAAAAAABK4/iYTRUoROEPs/s1600/IMG_0892.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zAHJYGdprCE/U9RukTA7s7I/AAAAAAAABK4/iYTRUoROEPs/s1600/IMG_0892.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S2juBtb5TRI/U9RunmDb8UI/AAAAAAAABLA/fnI35IZ-yzk/s1600/IMG_0896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S2juBtb5TRI/U9RunmDb8UI/AAAAAAAABLA/fnI35IZ-yzk/s1600/IMG_0896.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Lounging with the family ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kEK7LcyC7i0/U9Ruqc0gHhI/AAAAAAAABLI/vtMkUoAYxGM/s1600/IMG_0898.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kEK7LcyC7i0/U9Ruqc0gHhI/AAAAAAAABLI/vtMkUoAYxGM/s1600/IMG_0898.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_muyY3Y20zU/U9RutyTJx9I/AAAAAAAABLQ/uZOOTI2fwkk/s1600/IMG_0900.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_muyY3Y20zU/U9RutyTJx9I/AAAAAAAABLQ/uZOOTI2fwkk/s1600/IMG_0900.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cousin's Ethan and Jacob</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TTsCkEyU5GY/U9RuwgMz9iI/AAAAAAAABLY/anq4Z7rQ4ug/s1600/IMG_0902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TTsCkEyU5GY/U9RuwgMz9iI/AAAAAAAABLY/anq4Z7rQ4ug/s1600/IMG_0902.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Callum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7n8i93yXYog/U9Ru7p2qD5I/AAAAAAAABLg/46Zttg5FldI/s1600/IMG_0906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7n8i93yXYog/U9Ru7p2qD5I/AAAAAAAABLg/46Zttg5FldI/s1600/IMG_0906.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandma & Aunt Abi with William</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VfRtNmHjOMM/U9Ru9zaAoeI/AAAAAAAABLo/5H94T9WelO8/s1600/IMG_0908.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VfRtNmHjOMM/U9Ru9zaAoeI/AAAAAAAABLo/5H94T9WelO8/s1600/IMG_0908.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uncle Donal and Aunt Abi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SqCKjc6qoJk/U9RvECNipPI/AAAAAAAABL4/BwLnKFe5lgA/s1600/IMG_0921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SqCKjc6qoJk/U9RvECNipPI/AAAAAAAABL4/BwLnKFe5lgA/s1600/IMG_0921.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch with Grandma</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The family together infront of "The Collins Home" </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1QX7CjGtpUA/U9R1vywZckI/AAAAAAAABMI/8iv3dncv46E/s1600/photo+5-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1QX7CjGtpUA/U9R1vywZckI/AAAAAAAABMI/8iv3dncv46E/s1600/photo+5-2.JPG" height="245" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tDxrHXpGMLk/U9RvBImOJsI/AAAAAAAABLw/mP72Rs9qehw/s1600/IMG_0913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tDxrHXpGMLk/U9RvBImOJsI/AAAAAAAABLw/mP72Rs9qehw/s1600/IMG_0913.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
As you can see William has mastered sitting up!! It was a great visit with family and it is safe to say William Loves NY!!! :) We are looking forward to our next trip :)<br />
<br />
P.S. William's bottom two teeth have come in!!! Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-76675883780468591892014-07-26T20:12:00.004-07:002014-07-26T20:12:49.546-07:00It's been a while....<br />
<br />
I am not sure how time goes by so quickly, but it sure does!! Our little guys is now 7 months! He is smiling & laughing. He is not crawling yet, but he is starting to scoot (mostly backwards). He has 2 bottom teeth and is working on his top two :) Here are some pics ......<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QQws41JGowQ/U9RnkhfvlmI/AAAAAAAABJU/__ac-CsRzH8/s1600/IMG_0844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QQws41JGowQ/U9RnkhfvlmI/AAAAAAAABJU/__ac-CsRzH8/s1600/IMG_0844.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
5 months<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8KTBfXUWa0k/U9RnjcMjaHI/AAAAAAAABJI/Na2U7_xhjMI/s1600/IMG_0859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8KTBfXUWa0k/U9RnjcMjaHI/AAAAAAAABJI/Na2U7_xhjMI/s1600/IMG_0859.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
Father's Day 6/21/14, 6 months old, mastering sitting up on his own :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pdrR2Ug2Hj4/U9RnkKybCUI/AAAAAAAABJQ/uHfTo6UfpXc/s1600/IMG_0864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pdrR2Ug2Hj4/U9RnkKybCUI/AAAAAAAABJQ/uHfTo6UfpXc/s1600/IMG_0864.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Visit with Jack Huggard (my cousin). It was soo great to have him! I remember him when he was William's age, it doesn't seem like that long ago... how time flies! Jack has grown into such a responsible, respectful young man. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ggb7tY6--_8/U9RnpbfdhkI/AAAAAAAABJo/JGGOZ7fdZOw/s1600/IMG_0868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ggb7tY6--_8/U9RnpbfdhkI/AAAAAAAABJo/JGGOZ7fdZOw/s1600/IMG_0868.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O09sewblf9E/U9Rnup1O_4I/AAAAAAAABKQ/PWWoGybbsaU/s1600/IMG_1385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O09sewblf9E/U9Rnup1O_4I/AAAAAAAABKQ/PWWoGybbsaU/s1600/IMG_1385.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
William eating cereal! :) He is loving solid food, squash, sweet potatoes, strawberries, even spinach! <br />
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sean took William and I to the Homestead, what a great family trip! The Homestead is a pretty fancy wonderful place to visit!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kI5L3FObC58/U9RnobDbrYI/AAAAAAAABJg/vFRN4_uAx7E/s1600/IMG_1286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kI5L3FObC58/U9RnobDbrYI/AAAAAAAABJg/vFRN4_uAx7E/s1600/IMG_1286.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
At breakfast (best hotel breakfast EVER!!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oee17j0LFqE/U9RntOuwqvI/AAAAAAAABKE/beGvWeLyaAM/s1600/IMG_1287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oee17j0LFqE/U9RntOuwqvI/AAAAAAAABKE/beGvWeLyaAM/s1600/IMG_1287.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
Hanging out with dad when mom gets massage :) <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-op-aldaIKgI/U9RnvLwrOfI/AAAAAAAABKc/Z0_BXqXY0j8/s1600/IMG_1853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-op-aldaIKgI/U9RnvLwrOfI/AAAAAAAABKc/Z0_BXqXY0j8/s1600/IMG_1853.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
William's first swim. He LOVED it!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nAJKSLQcuH8/U9RnvczMzNI/AAAAAAAABKY/DpN75cPOiA8/s1600/IMG_1856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nAJKSLQcuH8/U9RnvczMzNI/AAAAAAAABKY/DpN75cPOiA8/s1600/IMG_1856.jpg" height="256" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We also have been BBQ!!!... Sean has participated in 3 competitions with his partners, Stephen and Brady Hypes. They are making some amazing BBQ..<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5VNKbDRh3PA/U9Rt-3d8ZSI/AAAAAAAABKw/FaF26mxizN4/s1600/IMG_0052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5VNKbDRh3PA/U9Rt-3d8ZSI/AAAAAAAABKw/FaF26mxizN4/s1600/IMG_0052.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m1Na10Ur53g/U9RnsiUFuXI/AAAAAAAABKA/RNzbLfpVVeM/s1600/IMG_1380.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m1Na10Ur53g/U9RnsiUFuXI/AAAAAAAABKA/RNzbLfpVVeM/s1600/IMG_1380.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
More to come soon.....Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-24924854092715492822014-04-20T17:32:00.001-07:002014-04-20T17:32:33.913-07:004 months<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WLG-j4cxbQw/U1RQ1vyZ_yI/AAAAAAAABF0/XNmZQNBg1Cg/s1600/IMG_0780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WLG-j4cxbQw/U1RQ1vyZ_yI/AAAAAAAABF0/XNmZQNBg1Cg/s1600/IMG_0780.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Guess who's 4 months!! This picture is very representative of this stage, because for the last couple weeks he hasn't been able to keep his hands out of his mouth! </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oZXOuihSPpg/U1RRBGiRKbI/AAAAAAAABGM/QswnYOXgE34/s1600/IMG_0789.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oZXOuihSPpg/U1RRBGiRKbI/AAAAAAAABGM/QswnYOXgE34/s1600/IMG_0789.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZrlCUHLmYVc/U1RQ-D5eBwI/AAAAAAAABGE/dD99o1bxZIU/s1600/IMG_0783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZrlCUHLmYVc/U1RQ-D5eBwI/AAAAAAAABGE/dD99o1bxZIU/s1600/IMG_0783.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He is a happy boy most of the time, especially when he has had his naps (which he fights). He has a sweet contagious smile and loves to snuggle! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_tSEzQuWfAo/U1RRIYI5JeI/AAAAAAAABGU/6Vng5BhWDAA/s1600/IMG_0773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_tSEzQuWfAo/U1RRIYI5JeI/AAAAAAAABGU/6Vng5BhWDAA/s1600/IMG_0773.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Monk and Ella have become very fond of him and LOVE cleaning up after his spit ups, which are frequent and large! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3HWLPKJ3gE8/U1RWKz6Sv_I/AAAAAAAABHM/vXVb21fzptU/s1600/IMG_1717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3HWLPKJ3gE8/U1RWKz6Sv_I/AAAAAAAABHM/vXVb21fzptU/s1600/IMG_1717.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We have discovered the Bumbo!!! William loves it and so do we!! (Look at that core strength)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Collin's household has been very busy since our last posting... I have started back to work, which is bitter sweet, I love my job and love have a little me time, but I also hate been away from our little guy. We have a nanny who is working out well, her name is Shawnice and she seems to be bonding with Mr. William. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
William got his far share of wrestling matches, and got to enjoy an ACC championship ....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qZHSKLCcUak/U1RRbYnEfNI/AAAAAAAABGk/gPlb_h0k7Kw/s1600/IMG_1683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qZHSKLCcUak/U1RRbYnEfNI/AAAAAAAABGk/gPlb_h0k7Kw/s1600/IMG_1683.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D6XcWO4bC9k/U1RWDy1qKNI/AAAAAAAABHE/2zSmNT91avk/s1600/IMG_1685.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D6XcWO4bC9k/U1RWDy1qKNI/AAAAAAAABHE/2zSmNT91avk/s1600/IMG_1685.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Devin Carter and Sean with ACC trophy :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and... Wrestling Nationals!!! We took our first plane trip with Gramps (a trip I will never forget) to OKC for wrestling national. He not only got to watch Virginia Tech wrestling place #8th in the country, but he also got to watch Devin Carter wrestle in the finals!! </div>
<br />
I love wrestling, so I was thrilled to be at the tournament with William, but an added bonus was that it was in OKC (close to my family), so we met with Aunt Shirley, Uncle Rusty, Robin and Grams of course. We also got to meet up with my good friend from residency, Nicole Willis and her husband and adorable daughter. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gndNHnqXKxI/U1RWYLl6NfI/AAAAAAAABHg/A4ETQI09PRc/s1600/IMG_1727.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gndNHnqXKxI/U1RWYLl6NfI/AAAAAAAABHg/A4ETQI09PRc/s1600/IMG_1727.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Z0uxIMKNuI/U1RWfkgW5xI/AAAAAAAABHo/BZA26FjjlR0/s1600/IMG_1742.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Z0uxIMKNuI/U1RWfkgW5xI/AAAAAAAABHo/BZA26FjjlR0/s1600/IMG_1742.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ileiXa9hbjQ/U1RYIWL6sII/AAAAAAAABIE/ZZIerWWLyzM/s1600/IMG_1739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ileiXa9hbjQ/U1RYIWL6sII/AAAAAAAABIE/ZZIerWWLyzM/s1600/IMG_1739.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X80kcxIk53U/U1Ri_6tGgeI/AAAAAAAABIU/ewXaWHUxaYQ/s1600/IMG_1748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X80kcxIk53U/U1Ri_6tGgeI/AAAAAAAABIU/ewXaWHUxaYQ/s1600/IMG_1748.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Now that wrestling season has come to a close Sean has fired up the smoker. He and his good friend Stephen Hypes are getting ready for a BBQ competittion in May. If you are interested check out their Facebook page "Still working on it". <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pfIHpweQjcY/U1RjEiuXKzI/AAAAAAAABIc/8_KySlO_vQ4/s1600/IMG_0715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pfIHpweQjcY/U1RjEiuXKzI/AAAAAAAABIc/8_KySlO_vQ4/s1600/IMG_0715.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Sean, William and I have also gotten to get out and enjoy the beautiful Virginia weather. We took William on his first hike at Cascades, he loved it!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FN05w1MIDzU/U1RRwIluWfI/AAAAAAAABG8/J5fkTsR2eWw/s1600/IMG_1765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FN05w1MIDzU/U1RRwIluWfI/AAAAAAAABG8/J5fkTsR2eWw/s1600/IMG_1765.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Whitney and Benji Latham (friends from residency) stopped by for a visit with their two boys, Marty and Atticus. Marty is only 6 weeks and bigger than William!! We had a great time catching up :) <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DZjI_A04Qrg/U1RRhTQ0MaI/AAAAAAAABGs/iOSY5f0GOSI/s1600/IMG_1774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DZjI_A04Qrg/U1RRhTQ0MaI/AAAAAAAABGs/iOSY5f0GOSI/s1600/IMG_1774.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well that's all til next time... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uDKViwmSzxk/U1RRNqhf0rI/AAAAAAAABGc/hmwxYdfUwPc/s1600/IMG_0760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uDKViwmSzxk/U1RRNqhf0rI/AAAAAAAABGc/hmwxYdfUwPc/s1600/IMG_0760.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-29309090682315840202014-02-27T18:46:00.003-08:002014-02-27T18:53:22.956-08:002 months<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ijaAVao2gQU/Uw_zSdtuAMI/AAAAAAAABC4/myfAgD0iSuE/s1600/IMG_0689.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ijaAVao2gQU/Uw_zSdtuAMI/AAAAAAAABC4/myfAgD0iSuE/s1600/IMG_0689.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
Well, it's been awhile since my last post and Mr. William has grown leaps and bounds!! He has become quite expressive and his smile melts my heart! Especially when he coos and squeals :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-epX8WB1_POY/Uw_zsCuFxpI/AAAAAAAABDA/NksTIw9_3MQ/s1600/IMG_1512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-epX8WB1_POY/Uw_zsCuFxpI/AAAAAAAABDA/NksTIw9_3MQ/s1600/IMG_1512.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Auntie Liz and cousin Ollie came to visit :) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jHu_n9dIbCE/Uw_5z3OpvOI/AAAAAAAABFI/95LPr_CiCK4/s1600/IMG_0633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jHu_n9dIbCE/Uw_5z3OpvOI/AAAAAAAABFI/95LPr_CiCK4/s1600/IMG_0633.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
We had a winter storm and William braved the cold with Dad :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XZaEbP4VNf0/Uw_0p7PbZGI/AAAAAAAABD4/mvPrkINFPQA/s1600/IMG_0003_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XZaEbP4VNf0/Uw_0p7PbZGI/AAAAAAAABD4/mvPrkINFPQA/s1600/IMG_0003_2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ou6IiklUGJg/Uw_0eW5uU8I/AAAAAAAABDo/AnyPDnwSrvs/s1600/IMG_0004_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ou6IiklUGJg/Uw_0eW5uU8I/AAAAAAAABDo/AnyPDnwSrvs/s1600/IMG_0004_2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Grandma Pat came and stayed with us for about a week, which allowed Sean and I to have a snow date and built a snowman, just the two of us! It was a wonderful Valentine's Day. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ERGJIpLR3_8/Uw_z3TmCsQI/AAAAAAAABDI/rcGLgxRioeU/s1600/IMG_1591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ERGJIpLR3_8/Uw_z3TmCsQI/AAAAAAAABDI/rcGLgxRioeU/s1600/IMG_1591.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O_enH3yd4kI/Uw_0Se70X-I/AAAAAAAABDY/FNxBP3j6RDI/s1600/IMG_0640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O_enH3yd4kI/Uw_0Se70X-I/AAAAAAAABDY/FNxBP3j6RDI/s1600/IMG_0640.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Grandma Pat and I drove to Greensborro to visit some relatives. Uncle Donnie was quite comfortable with William and William with him. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NdhNbCs9f9o/Uw_0YlViIGI/AAAAAAAABDg/ubMLTIKCg2U/s1600/IMG_0650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NdhNbCs9f9o/Uw_0YlViIGI/AAAAAAAABDg/ubMLTIKCg2U/s1600/IMG_0650.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
William was always at ease with Uncle Curt's and loved kisses from Neko<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Um06P1_t1YI/Uw_0n30-3MI/AAAAAAAABDw/Sfj9E_H8aaM/s1600/IMG_0654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Um06P1_t1YI/Uw_0n30-3MI/AAAAAAAABDw/Sfj9E_H8aaM/s1600/IMG_0654.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Getting snuggles with Serena....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1j3zkETIrmk/Uw_4XoiOdqI/AAAAAAAABE8/IH6wa_jZKzE/s1600/IMG_0651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1j3zkETIrmk/Uw_4XoiOdqI/AAAAAAAABE8/IH6wa_jZKzE/s1600/IMG_0651.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
As William has gotten older he is starting to become more observant. He LOVES his activity gym and is focusing on the different things dangling. He especially likes the lights!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rlCMExW7T1o/Uw_0ww-VSpI/AAAAAAAABEA/Dm7SGpDrZkA/s1600/IMG_0656.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rlCMExW7T1o/Uw_0ww-VSpI/AAAAAAAABEA/Dm7SGpDrZkA/s1600/IMG_0656.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Grams & Great Grandma Max also came to visit! This was their first meeting....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k5NWTp1r9rs/Uw_03L8QA9I/AAAAAAAABEI/7c640DGNUMY/s1600/IMG_0659.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k5NWTp1r9rs/Uw_03L8QA9I/AAAAAAAABEI/7c640DGNUMY/s1600/IMG_0659.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Great Grandma and William had quite a good time getting to know each other. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FfbL2Ko6yzY/Uw_09HjvT9I/AAAAAAAABEQ/gzVllSb1PNQ/s1600/IMG_0666.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FfbL2Ko6yzY/Uw_09HjvT9I/AAAAAAAABEQ/gzVllSb1PNQ/s1600/IMG_0666.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
William is discovering his hands more and more, he has them in his mouth frequently, but he also is starting to grasp rattles and fingers :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aSpsvWxOg9o/Uw_0_4ARjzI/AAAAAAAABEY/E1m0iCmWm2g/s1600/IMG_0670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aSpsvWxOg9o/Uw_0_4ARjzI/AAAAAAAABEY/E1m0iCmWm2g/s1600/IMG_0670.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The 4 generations! What a crew!! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fm-G0UdQN34/Uw_1G6DpuzI/AAAAAAAABEg/Zbsej6OvMlE/s1600/IMG_0681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fm-G0UdQN34/Uw_1G6DpuzI/AAAAAAAABEg/Zbsej6OvMlE/s1600/IMG_0681.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
William and I have had a wonderful almost 3 months at home getting to know each other! I have been so thankful for all the help my family has provided. Sean has been on the road a lot with wrestling and I have not had to spend one weekend alone. Thank you Pat, Mom, Grandma and Liz for all your help! We are also very thankful to Curt and Serena (our cousins) for their hospitality during our first road trip! I start back to work on Monday and have very mixed feelings. I love what I do, but it will be hard to leave our little guy. We really like our nanny Shawnice and think she will be a great fit with our family. More posts to come :) Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-19895345423714071512014-01-23T19:43:00.000-08:002014-01-23T19:43:49.666-08:004-5 weeks<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AmZ62GAo75Q/UuHZdPD5UVI/AAAAAAAAA_o/ux4eQMxlIbs/s1600/IMG_0609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AmZ62GAo75Q/UuHZdPD5UVI/AAAAAAAAA_o/ux4eQMxlIbs/s1600/IMG_0609.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
William has continued to become more alert and interactive. He is tracking (following objects with his eye). He is cooing and seems to be more aware of his hands :) Here are a few pictures from the last couple weeks :) He is feeding well and hit 10 pounds this week!<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dr. William… my Mom and I set this up, he slept through the whole thing, even when we had to shake the bag to get him out! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8qrtIFOJu2s/UuHV7CrYETI/AAAAAAAAA-A/Rdfa1p72rig/s1600/IMG_0562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8qrtIFOJu2s/UuHV7CrYETI/AAAAAAAAA-A/Rdfa1p72rig/s1600/IMG_0562.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
He is destined to be an avid reader like his dad...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wcoG4WOtesQ/UuHV_GA3ghI/AAAAAAAAA-I/dXdt5cxi-vc/s1600/IMG_0576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wcoG4WOtesQ/UuHV_GA3ghI/AAAAAAAAA-I/dXdt5cxi-vc/s1600/IMG_0576.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BpftSYPzDDU/UuHedrYBT0I/AAAAAAAABAU/Ecljw9EVEoo/s1600/IMG_0587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BpftSYPzDDU/UuHedrYBT0I/AAAAAAAABAU/Ecljw9EVEoo/s1600/IMG_0587.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Family photos...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XxU98Bjqa_E/UuHWCC0OU3I/AAAAAAAAA-Q/h-RPJdtrA4k/s1600/IMG_1371.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XxU98Bjqa_E/UuHWCC0OU3I/AAAAAAAAA-Q/h-RPJdtrA4k/s1600/IMG_1371.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CG8LzxHQ1BY/UuHYOc-TxtI/AAAAAAAAA-4/P2sVSgIS2PI/s1600/IMG_1400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CG8LzxHQ1BY/UuHYOc-TxtI/AAAAAAAAA-4/P2sVSgIS2PI/s1600/IMG_1400.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JF1wewoO8l8/UuHdKIFL0mI/AAAAAAAABAE/94KtFMgbNPU/s1600/IMG_0619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JF1wewoO8l8/UuHdKIFL0mI/AAAAAAAABAE/94KtFMgbNPU/s1600/IMG_0619.JPG" height="310" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rockstar dad :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vBxGqJg7hwk/UuHYFF6wBUI/AAAAAAAAA-w/ItV2sztWpEg/s1600/IMG_1396.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vBxGqJg7hwk/UuHYFF6wBUI/AAAAAAAAA-w/ItV2sztWpEg/s1600/IMG_1396.jpg" height="320" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
William and I try to go on walks.. we manage to get out on a walk about every other day<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UO67Rgdaq3I/UuHhBxiFpWI/AAAAAAAABAc/5ubP4xdmeGY/s1600/IMG_1362.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UO67Rgdaq3I/UuHhBxiFpWI/AAAAAAAABAc/5ubP4xdmeGY/s1600/IMG_1362.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Both my mom and Sean's mom have come to stay with me (on two different occassions) while Sean has been on the road, which means I have not had to be home alone with William yet, which has been wonderful. I have greatly appreciated the help they gave me. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Smitten...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eJ_rmtVk24k/UuHV25dTuGI/AAAAAAAAA98/7FrK5NujqgM/s1600/IMG_1335.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eJ_rmtVk24k/UuHV25dTuGI/AAAAAAAAA98/7FrK5NujqgM/s1600/IMG_1335.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
discussing plans for her next visit :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PfM-_wj8gWQ/UuHXl06-wRI/AAAAAAAAA-Y/-Q9JQkXApzg/s1600/IMG_1360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PfM-_wj8gWQ/UuHXl06-wRI/AAAAAAAAA-Y/-Q9JQkXApzg/s1600/IMG_1360.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
William attended his first wrestling match, in hokie attire of course<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RvDRmUJ_2r4/UuHXvV5gPrI/AAAAAAAAA-g/0oBwF2rogto/s1600/IMG_1390.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RvDRmUJ_2r4/UuHXvV5gPrI/AAAAAAAAA-g/0oBwF2rogto/s1600/IMG_1390.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
We have been overwhelmed by the generousity of friends and family and thier gifts. Several people have knitted beautiful baby blankets for our little guys, which keep him warm on the cold winter days. Below are some booties from Germany from one of Sean's althetes (Alex, National Champion in the Hammer throw)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kwISpIgYcA4/UuHZRN6pXrI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/mBcF9eAZAA8/s1600/IMG_1417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kwISpIgYcA4/UuHZRN6pXrI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/mBcF9eAZAA8/s1600/IMG_1417.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-49852029788036949932014-01-11T16:35:00.002-08:002014-01-11T16:35:39.501-08:003 weeksWell we are starting to settle into a routine :) <br />
<br />
A few things I love about this stage....<br />
<br />
1. I love his little noises, his grunts when he feeds his coos, he has been a very noisy baby since he was born..<br />
2. I love the little things he does with those little hands, like when he stretches or puts his hand right up next to his chin<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7vh3U4UAmOs/UsxY-QD2IdI/AAAAAAAAA8I/59k1gEGtidY/s1600/IMG_1293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7vh3U4UAmOs/UsxY-QD2IdI/AAAAAAAAA8I/59k1gEGtidY/s1600/IMG_1293.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
3. I love that he is starting to focus and stares right into my face, it melts my heart every time! <br />
4. I love his random smiles when he is sleeping, probably from gas, but I still love watching the corners of his lips curl up (of course it is impossible to get a good picture)..<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6lNdcekviQY/UtHjOS4SPgI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/tgx_ZRK11I0/s1600/IMG_1344.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6lNdcekviQY/UtHjOS4SPgI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/tgx_ZRK11I0/s1600/IMG_1344.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
4. I love seeing him with his dad, his dad is so smittent and is always right there to help me, whenever I need a hand..<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
William and Dad enjoy reading <u>Jungle Book</u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YdNDpiHmibQ/UsxY3QB0dqI/AAAAAAAAA74/C6qHf-ycV9I/s1600/IMG_1306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YdNDpiHmibQ/UsxY3QB0dqI/AAAAAAAAA74/C6qHf-ycV9I/s1600/IMG_1306.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
We went on our first family outing... Brunch at Boudreaux. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fHuzXPnjC0o/UsxY7hkJeoI/AAAAAAAAA8A/5ZdjGNQIkas/s1600/IMG_1305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fHuzXPnjC0o/UsxY7hkJeoI/AAAAAAAAA8A/5ZdjGNQIkas/s1600/IMG_1305.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
As you can see he also has quite a temper :) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hyEOwCA6Lgs/UsxZBhy9T0I/AAAAAAAAA8Q/hMHiJSGygsg/s1600/IMG_1311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hyEOwCA6Lgs/UsxZBhy9T0I/AAAAAAAAA8Q/hMHiJSGygsg/s1600/IMG_1311.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He has a little weight to put on before he is ready to go to the mats (wrestling)...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CyqCkF6Z0q8/UsxZHlH6X-I/AAAAAAAAA8Y/Rm4rebFaTTs/s1600/IMG_1300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CyqCkF6Z0q8/UsxZHlH6X-I/AAAAAAAAA8Y/Rm4rebFaTTs/s1600/IMG_1300.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Williams first date with Kinsley Rogers :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t0vnDGT7VeM/UtHiPA69LTI/AAAAAAAAA9A/MslLQA9_MrQ/s1600/IMG_1328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t0vnDGT7VeM/UtHiPA69LTI/AAAAAAAAA9A/MslLQA9_MrQ/s1600/IMG_1328.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
He is a sweet little guy we look forward to getting to know better and better. We are so blessed to have this little guy in our lives. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u79porxYjjY/UsxZPZnkYGI/AAAAAAAAA8o/LWdrm7H4Q_s/s1600/IMG_0534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u79porxYjjY/UsxZPZnkYGI/AAAAAAAAA8o/LWdrm7H4Q_s/s1600/IMG_0534.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7vh3U4UAmOs/UsxY-QD2IdI/AAAAAAAAA8I/59k1gEGtidY/s1600/IMG_1293.jpg" with "https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7vh3U4UAmOs/UsxY-QD2IdI/AAAAAAAAA8I/59k1gEGtidY/s1600/IMG_1293.jpg" --><!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-7vh3U4UAmOs%2FUsxY-QD2IdI%2FAAAAAAAAA8I%2F59k1gEGtidY%2Fs1600%2FIMG_1293.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7vh3U4UAmOs/UsxY-QD2IdI/AAAAAAAAA8I/59k1gEGtidY/s1600/IMG_1293.jpg" -->Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-38820630373030962682014-01-07T11:30:00.002-08:002014-01-07T11:30:47.170-08:00The first few weeks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After our first night home :) I had a lactation visit, as breastfeeding was proving to be as challenging as everyone warned me.. William had lost some weight and appeared jaundice, so we checked his billirubin. To help his jaundice and weight gain we started supplementing... Here is Sean finger feeding pumped breast milk...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UImEhzY2iP4/UsxO04q9ISI/AAAAAAAAA5o/MXIRyRnYsAY/s1600/IMG_1252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UImEhzY2iP4/UsxO04q9ISI/AAAAAAAAA5o/MXIRyRnYsAY/s1600/IMG_1252.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It turned out that Williams bilirubin came back to high to treat at home, so he was readmitted to the hospital for phototherapy. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
William under bililights (he HATED the purple goggles and most everything about the lights...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ryLOHSHtBwk/UsxOoRNm8sI/AAAAAAAAA5U/1KNWnRgx1cA/s1600/IMG_1257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ryLOHSHtBwk/UsxOoRNm8sI/AAAAAAAAA5U/1KNWnRgx1cA/s1600/IMG_1257.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
His bilirubin successfully responded to lights and frequent feedings with supplementation of breast milk and some formula, the lactation specialist that helped me through were incredible! Here is William showing off his battle wounds, I call this one Super Fin, as he resembles a super hero with the purple mask & Sean nicknamed him Fin...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ay2xMur4XqQ/UsxOv3j0xNI/AAAAAAAAA5c/3zVKTiP3B24/s1600/IMG_1260.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ay2xMur4XqQ/UsxOv3j0xNI/AAAAAAAAA5c/3zVKTiP3B24/s1600/IMG_1260.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We went home and continued to supplement and breastfeed and see lactation about every other day. Needless to say I was very anxious about his weight gain, so my sweet husband bought me a food scale we could monitor Williams weight at home, to help ease my nerves.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tl7WM7sPgjQ/UsxO5jsnvJI/AAAAAAAAA5s/QlACmbWG3Uk/s1600/IMG_0509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tl7WM7sPgjQ/UsxO5jsnvJI/AAAAAAAAA5s/QlACmbWG3Uk/s1600/IMG_0509.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
We also were very fortunate to have our family during this time. My mom and dad, sister and Sean's mom were all here for Christmas and to see our newest addition. They were all very supportive and helpful during this stressful time. Here's mom with little William :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CTHOSjZs5rw/UsxPAZ-VBwI/AAAAAAAAA50/awMX9m_2hCU/s1600/IMG_1273.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CTHOSjZs5rw/UsxPAZ-VBwI/AAAAAAAAA50/awMX9m_2hCU/s1600/IMG_1273.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
My dad with our little guy... although Dad much preferred to carry him in the Ergo baby or take him for bumpy rides in his stroller :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pENvD2yopcg/UsxPETMLXMI/AAAAAAAAA58/qbzQh0fFNP0/s1600/IMG_0513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pENvD2yopcg/UsxPETMLXMI/AAAAAAAAA58/qbzQh0fFNP0/s1600/IMG_0513.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My sister Liz </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nLWwg1uHxUE/UsxPMs_Rk8I/AAAAAAAAA6E/atnQb_yuvSk/s1600/IMG_0525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nLWwg1uHxUE/UsxPMs_Rk8I/AAAAAAAAA6E/atnQb_yuvSk/s1600/IMG_0525.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Story time with both Grandmothers and Auntie Liz </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2pmXDaYttHw/UsxPXQTd8JI/AAAAAAAAA6U/Hfl2ufCHaVQ/s1600/IMG_0521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2pmXDaYttHw/UsxPXQTd8JI/AAAAAAAAA6U/Hfl2ufCHaVQ/s1600/IMG_0521.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Then of course snuggle time with mom and dad :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xlcAwI3lLKk/UsxPPHyFPNI/AAAAAAAAA6M/Pzl4G6BWTxg/s1600/IMG_1276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xlcAwI3lLKk/UsxPPHyFPNI/AAAAAAAAA6M/Pzl4G6BWTxg/s1600/IMG_1276.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
William is hiding but he is snuggled in the blanket at my chest, Monk was very fond of William from the moment we brought him home and has continued to be his protector. When William cries Monk whines! He also is always trying to get a lick in to make sure William's hair lays just right...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g3tMFnZkCd0/UsxPeUEUTcI/AAAAAAAAA6c/dGOzlXuoeOY/s1600/IMG_0527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g3tMFnZkCd0/UsxPeUEUTcI/AAAAAAAAA6c/dGOzlXuoeOY/s1600/IMG_0527.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jzZydjOIoaw/UsxPx6s1WuI/AAAAAAAAA68/uVUOCqr807M/s1600/IMG_1295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jzZydjOIoaw/UsxPx6s1WuI/AAAAAAAAA68/uVUOCqr807M/s1600/IMG_1295.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Our little guy all dressed up for Christmas :) I love how he holds his little hands. He is so content in his Dad's arms.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eBKdcd1k4sg/UsxPmZzaAXI/AAAAAAAAA6k/a6zaMFc7gxw/s1600/IMG_1278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eBKdcd1k4sg/UsxPmZzaAXI/AAAAAAAAA6k/a6zaMFc7gxw/s1600/IMG_1278.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tummy time!!! And of course color coordinating cloth diapers ;)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XKhbioGQpzc/UsxPp5QipsI/AAAAAAAAA6s/_nEBDkaAq5s/s1600/IMG_1286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XKhbioGQpzc/UsxPp5QipsI/AAAAAAAAA6s/_nEBDkaAq5s/s1600/IMG_1286.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The first couple weeks were much different than I anticipated. Breastfeeding was MUCH harder than I ever imagined (To any and all mothers I silently judged for bottlefeeding, I am SOOOOO sorry, I had NO idea!). And I am much more anxious and attached mother than I EVER thought I would be. </div>
I have also discovered what is to be like to be a mom of a patient, rather than the doctor, is SOO different (i.e. I cried when my pediatricain told me we had to be readmitted and when lactation told me we needed to start supplementig with formula...both things I tell my patients all the time and follow with, it's really okay, this isn't a big deal...well now I know truly what a big deal it can be...) <br />
<br />
Thank you to all my friends, family, doctors, nurses, lactaion specialist and my wonderful husband who supported me through these last couple weeks. <br />
<br />
More to come on our beautiful baby boy.....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-66466399528615865422014-01-03T16:55:00.000-08:002014-01-03T16:55:01.589-08:00William's arrivalWell as Sean would say, William would not be my son if he came on time. Our little guy arrived on Dec. 15, 2013 (2 days after his due date). Sean and I spent the night prior to his arrival running some last minute Christmas errands and going out to eat at one of our favorite resturaunts, Blackstone. <br />
<br />
At 430 on 12/15/13, I started having contractions, by 730 we were headed into the hospital. I was on the fence about getting an epidural initially, but after I learned what contractions really felt like when they were 3 minutes apart, I decided to go for the epidural. The epidural slowed my contractions down and I was put on Pitocin. At about 12 pm I started pushing and at 1:29 pm our little guys was born sunnyside up. My OB, Dr. Kami Palmer was wonderful and my nurse Michelle was incredibly encouraging (especially at 1:15 when I said is he ever REALLY going to come!), not to mention my incredible supportive husband that stood by my side throughout the entire process. My dear friend Katie Collins drove up from Charlotte, NC and arrived shortly after William was born. Here are some pictures (most that Katie took :) ) <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="text-align: center;">William Joseph Collins </span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;">arrived at 1:29 on 12/15/13 </span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;">weighing 8#13 oz and measuring 21.5 inches.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DWje95-7JfY/UsdT_vxS5cI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/WvnNM-NnU2k/s1600/IMG_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DWje95-7JfY/UsdT_vxS5cI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/WvnNM-NnU2k/s320/IMG_0001.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He had quite a lusty cry after he was born, which I attribute to good strong lungs and an irish temper</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--lTTa8yL3nk/UsdUE8VaI6I/AAAAAAAAA3Y/jEdDibs2wZw/s1600/IMG_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--lTTa8yL3nk/UsdUE8VaI6I/AAAAAAAAA3Y/jEdDibs2wZw/s320/IMG_0004.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Michelle giving little William his first bath</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eSCiWt2y9OA/UsdUKExYa2I/AAAAAAAAA3g/wBV6bUywMjk/s1600/IMG_0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eSCiWt2y9OA/UsdUKExYa2I/AAAAAAAAA3g/wBV6bUywMjk/s320/IMG_0011.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
First check up from his pediatrician, Dr. Sophia Abraham-Hardee. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k2JgHOx7Tg8/UsdXO1NKI3I/AAAAAAAAA5E/qodWIaDdVRw/s1600/IMG_0016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k2JgHOx7Tg8/UsdXO1NKI3I/AAAAAAAAA5E/qodWIaDdVRw/s320/IMG_0016.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nupHVrfUI5k/UsdUMsgW6VI/AAAAAAAAA3o/impcjxuClKs/s1600/IMG_0019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nupHVrfUI5k/UsdUMsgW6VI/AAAAAAAAA3o/impcjxuClKs/s320/IMG_0019.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KQC9mgmAosY/UsdURitzwbI/AAAAAAAAA3w/tXw2NanfEPk/s1600/IMG_0022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KQC9mgmAosY/UsdURitzwbI/AAAAAAAAA3w/tXw2NanfEPk/s320/IMG_0022.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IULILsPqM7A/UsdUVKj5vsI/AAAAAAAAA34/tbiN57jFkEY/s1600/IMG_0025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IULILsPqM7A/UsdUVKj5vsI/AAAAAAAAA34/tbiN57jFkEY/s320/IMG_0025.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XRNj1AdzN58/UsdVNEfuVrI/AAAAAAAAA44/MGXkAFTFlP8/s1600/IMG_0476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XRNj1AdzN58/UsdVNEfuVrI/AAAAAAAAA44/MGXkAFTFlP8/s320/IMG_0476.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My dear friend Katie with William and I :) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CdmAXq-wFEM/UsdUcvLqBhI/AAAAAAAAA4I/E2qqaPhYJx0/s1600/IMG_0467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CdmAXq-wFEM/UsdUcvLqBhI/AAAAAAAAA4I/E2qqaPhYJx0/s320/IMG_0467.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
William in his new hat from Katie </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Q0Vm6-MYF4/UsdUj5Hxo0I/AAAAAAAAA4Q/HP0ic5Qej_8/s1600/IMG_0478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Q0Vm6-MYF4/UsdUj5Hxo0I/AAAAAAAAA4Q/HP0ic5Qej_8/s320/IMG_0478.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Snuggle time</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tqd8dN6-yM4/UsdUnX8xjlI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/uA4FQfRo_a4/s1600/IMG_0487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tqd8dN6-yM4/UsdUnX8xjlI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/uA4FQfRo_a4/s320/IMG_0487.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-io7lGt-FnFg/UsdU4EZxrOI/AAAAAAAAA4w/WQEAZoolWSY/s1600/IMG_0482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-io7lGt-FnFg/UsdU4EZxrOI/AAAAAAAAA4w/WQEAZoolWSY/s320/IMG_0482.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
More to come soon.....</div>
Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-76784219093573788012013-12-08T19:41:00.003-08:002013-12-08T19:41:47.013-08:00<br />
39 weeks! <br />
<br />
Dates: Dec. 8, 2013<br />
<br />
I am actually feeling pretty good. William has dropped, so sometimes he gets a little heavy, but I am still getting around pretty good and feel pretty good with the exception of occasional fatigue. <br />
<br />
Size of baby... estimated weight on US at 37 weeks was 6# 8oz (50%tile)<br />
<br />
Baby's Movement: William is a very active little guy. He still loves to kick me in the right flank and I see his little foot sticking out frequently. He has definitely dropped and my reflux is much improved, but I have to pee ALL the time!!<br />
<br />
My Activity: I had a little bout of sacroillitis, that thank goodness resolved. It restricted me from doing much of anything, but now that it is healed! <br />
<br />
Diet: Strangest cravings for me are milk (I never used to drink milk), now I drink 1-2 glasses a day! I also love ice water and ice, which is very strange for me as I typically drink luke warm or hot water (NEVER ice water!). <br />
<br />
We are mostly prepared for out little guy, well as prepared as you can be! We have our pack and play set up, our basinet with some disposable diapers and LOTS of cloth diapers (all washed and ready to wear). <br />
<br />
Big events.... My mother-in-law came down for a visit. We had a great time! then a couple weeks later my wonderful friend Krista with the help of my husband threw an incredible baby shower!! I had friends and family from D.C, Oklahoma, Texas, North Carolina and South Carolina. I felt very loved to have so many people travel such distances to come celebrate my little guy! Here are some pictures :) <br />
<br />
I almost forgot to include my fabulous co-workers, who also threw me an amazing shower. I am so very lucky to be surrounded by such supportive friends! William has everything he could possibly need (I think). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5MWCU2wCRhM/UqU30JlsH7I/AAAAAAAAA2E/s48O1E_vPJc/s1600/prego.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5MWCU2wCRhM/UqU30JlsH7I/AAAAAAAAA2E/s48O1E_vPJc/s320/prego.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Sean & I at home with our new (new to us) Grandfather clock. Picture thanks to Grandma Pat.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rsuoqYD3gYs/UqU5CRHKLiI/AAAAAAAAA2M/SMINr13Fu8A/s1600/IMG_0884.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rsuoqYD3gYs/UqU5CRHKLiI/AAAAAAAAA2M/SMINr13Fu8A/s320/IMG_0884.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Katie Rogers & I at shower with awesome baby wreath!! Katie just had her baby girl Kinsley 3 weeks ago!! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SqlOjhq3Ytw/UqU5KenkVYI/AAAAAAAAA2U/3ICGphEYGx8/s1600/IMG_0921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SqlOjhq3Ytw/UqU5KenkVYI/AAAAAAAAA2U/3ICGphEYGx8/s320/IMG_0921.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My sister Liz & I at shower :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aLu-ztmO-zM/UqU6LAYFShI/AAAAAAAAA2c/VpNzlZz8nmo/s1600/IMG_0919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aLu-ztmO-zM/UqU6LAYFShI/AAAAAAAAA2c/VpNzlZz8nmo/s320/IMG_0919.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Party planner, Krista Rogers!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kc6_ysbnQ3Y/UqU6VsQUttI/AAAAAAAAA2s/a_5kurg-NMc/s1600/IMG_0908.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kc6_ysbnQ3Y/UqU6VsQUttI/AAAAAAAAA2s/a_5kurg-NMc/s320/IMG_0908.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
My assistant Marin, who helped me open all my wonderful gifts. This is a handmade sweater my Grandmother (William's Great Granny Max) bought him :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QxWLokH2u-0/UqU6Vfhw2vI/AAAAAAAAA2k/sc3bZn1se_U/s1600/IMG_0913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QxWLokH2u-0/UqU6Vfhw2vI/AAAAAAAAA2k/sc3bZn1se_U/s320/IMG_0913.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
Amazing diaper cake from Wally. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WKRI42AB28c/UqU6Vsf2lWI/AAAAAAAAA2o/J4vmW3sausQ/s1600/IMG_0918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WKRI42AB28c/UqU6Vsf2lWI/AAAAAAAAA2o/J4vmW3sausQ/s320/IMG_0918.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
Auntie and Grannies! So blessed to have such a wonderful family!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xlf4CCMwU0Q/UqU7mdbvFqI/AAAAAAAAA3A/CpVFV5Meb7o/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xlf4CCMwU0Q/UqU7mdbvFqI/AAAAAAAAA3A/CpVFV5Meb7o/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Delicious cake from my co-workers at APCA! <br />
<br />
My next post will probably be after Mr. William comes, but maybe not... we'll see :) We are getting very excited to meet our little guys. Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-13039747182262977902013-12-08T19:10:00.000-08:002013-12-08T19:10:03.158-08:00Soo... much has happened since my last blog... I was able to go visit my dear friend Meryl and her family in Beaufort, SC. She is always inspiring to me. She is a mother of 3 beautiful children and a military wife. She is an amazing homemaker and a caring, intelligent physician. On my most recent visit, I was able to meet her daughter, Maryblake for the first time! I intend to take lots of pictures of her, but ended up holding her most of the visit and didn't get one picture! Such a shame, because she is a beautiful child!! But I did get a few of Meryl's other children Harper and Rowen. Here are a few pictures from the trip...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jC6Jy95NNN4/UqUwpXvULoI/AAAAAAAAA1I/fmfprbUC8gU/s1600/IMG_0393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jC6Jy95NNN4/UqUwpXvULoI/AAAAAAAAA1I/fmfprbUC8gU/s320/IMG_0393.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iprcjV8KyMw/UqUwvFsN-wI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/PYBrnu-7Vhs/s1600/IMG_0395+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iprcjV8KyMw/UqUwvFsN-wI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/PYBrnu-7Vhs/s320/IMG_0395+(2).JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UtyMAJmvON0/UqUw3tFBzyI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/5eLRTe0-xXI/s1600/IMG_0399+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UtyMAJmvON0/UqUw3tFBzyI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/5eLRTe0-xXI/s320/IMG_0399+(2).JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Then I headed to Orlando, FL for a National Pediatrics conference. I went with my collegue, Sofia Abraham-Hardee. We had a wonderful time! We spent most of our time in lectures, but managed to go to downtown Disney and to an AAP conference event to get our picture with Minnie and Mickey. I also got to catch up with great friends from residency, Nicole Willis and Misty :) Such a great trip! Pictures are worth 1,000 words so....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gAcmFSluD0g/UqUzogeslPI/AAAAAAAAA1w/GZHtJhlK-B0/s1600/orlando.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gAcmFSluD0g/UqUzogeslPI/AAAAAAAAA1w/GZHtJhlK-B0/s320/orlando.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Misty, Nicole and I at convention :) I also got to see Lo, Nicole's beautiful daughter! :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nw9Z5el0tJw/UqUzsaCqi9I/AAAAAAAAA14/rslrgn8gl-A/s1600/orlando2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nw9Z5el0tJw/UqUzsaCqi9I/AAAAAAAAA14/rslrgn8gl-A/s320/orlando2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Sofia and I with Mickey and Minnie :) <br />
<br />
Well I think that covers the big events over the last couple weeks. Pregnancy up date to come soon :)<br />
<br />
Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-15826106676802073202013-10-02T20:06:00.001-07:002013-10-02T20:06:39.322-07:00Weeks 25-28Wow I can't believe it's been so long! <br /><br />Dates: Aug. 30- Sept. 26, 2013<br /><br />Sorry guys I got a little behind on blogging....<br /><br />How Far Along: 25-28 weeks<br /><br />Size of baby @ 28 weeks: 2 pounds about 15 inches long<br /> <br />Baby's development: starting to dream, can sense light & is "plumping up" <br />Gender: It's aBOY!!!<br />Baby's Movement: William is getting more forceful with his kicks and I can see my belly move sometimes. I can feel him turning as well. Sometimes I wonder what he's doing in there. <br />Symptoms: Mostly just heartburn, I have graduated to using Zantac regularly and it usually controls my dragon tendancy of fire breathing. Ice cream and milk also help.<br /> <br />My Activity: Ran a 5K with mom, that was the last time I ran. Sean and I are still going on walks with the dogs. I would like to start swimming soon, but have not started yet.<br /> <br />Diet: Still love mashed potatoes (my favorite) & chocolate although I try to limit both. Still keeping a pretty bland diet to control heartburn. New cravings include milk & ice cream. I drink a glass of milk a day now (I have NEVER drank milk), I think that is good as I have read I need more calcium during this time for healthy bone development. <br /><br />Maternity Clothes: I got a new installment of maternity clothes from my dad :) And I did some online shopping. I pretty much don't fit in any normal clothes except oversized sweats and of course my favorite... yoga pants and one of Sean's T-shirts :)<br /> <br />Nursery: We got William's room and bathroom painted! His bathroom is pretty much done, but we have a little work to do on his bedroom. My dad brought us Jerry, which has really added a lot of character to the room. We LOVE Jerry and know William will love him as well. We should get his crib in the next couple weeks.<br /><br />My favorite things... <br /> <br />William has even more of a presence now because I feel him moving so much. I am talking to him more. I feel him move a lot when I see babies in the clinic, I love it :) <br /><br />William's accomplishments: William has been to 2 VT games. Below are pictures from his first home game :) He ran his first 5K. <br /><br />Other highlights: My parents and sister came to visit. We had a wonderful time!! It was soo great to have them here. It was the first time my sister had seen our new home. Ollie (my sister's dog) also came to visit and was on his best behavior after his recent training. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5930360209846783426'><img src='https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-UGCj-y2TQWA/UkzfMMIHTcI/AAAAAAAAA0g/5gN1RGz3z3g/s288/35.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> <br />William's first home hokie game :) <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5930360225470762706'><img src='https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-W3FXVJZWnNY/UkzfNGVKTtI/AAAAAAAAA0o/T8d-mNf5Azw/s288/42.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Mom and I after Hokie 5K <br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5930360248304635650'><img src='https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-bfj0RFPSsRI/UkzfObZLjwI/AAAAAAAAA0w/el7gHZcYI-Q/s288/41.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />William's bathroom<br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5930360262816349794'><img src='https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-hO9DbkQ7FOk/UkzfPRdCvmI/AAAAAAAAA04/qG66tNcD3NE/s288/36.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Jerry :) in William's room.<br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-6334077371051594112013-09-02T09:18:00.001-07:002013-09-02T10:12:57.760-07:00AtlantaDates: Aug. 30-31<br /><br />We went to Atlanta for the Alabama vs. Virginia Tech football game :)<br />We went with our dear friends, Katie & Adam Collins, Carrie & Jeff Neal and Gina and Bryce. We had a fabulous time!! Here are some of the highlights :)<br /><br />Tailgaiting & DragonCon (Saturday)<br />We started tailgaiting at a Mexican restaurant on a balcony with a great view of the street. DragonCon (The largest multimedia, popular culture convention focusing on science fiction & fantasy, gaming, comics, literature, art, music and film IN THE UNIVERSE!), mostly this means lots of great costumes on the sidewalks, GREAT for people watching!! (thanks Carrie for your pics)<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5919074510866786946'><img src='https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-I3hR55ITAVQ/UiTG6DNIqoI/AAAAAAAAAyw/y7BoyfYvd2s/s288/36.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> Steam punk, late 1800's character, awesome intricate costume. Very popular genre of costumes <br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5919074533498514962'><img src='https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DL3hd_52FzI/UiTG7Xg9bhI/AAAAAAAAAy4/KwyzOgcQN3w/s288/35.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5919074560745745250'><img src='https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-xT_h3jYD3m0/UiTG89BNK2I/AAAAAAAAAzA/R6SapvxeAk8/s288/37.jpg' border='0' width='204' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The Game.....<br /><br />Virginia Tech vs Alabama - Preseason Chick-fil-a Bowl<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5919074574739367250'><img src='https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-amJ-cZxRjhA/UiTG9xJi5VI/AAAAAAAAAzI/BPiMMt7NukA/s288/41.jpg' border='0' width='220' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Outfitted in our Hokie gear :) we headed to the big game....<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5919074597489622770'><img src='https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kgLZIdymI94/UiTG_F5oPvI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/r0HcNHCWXcI/s288/42.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Gina, Carrie, Katie and I together :) <br /><br />The Hokies lost 10 to 35, but they player pretty well, we definitely learned where some of our weakness were. Hopefully will help us be a better team! We had great seats 4 row up on the 30 yard line!! Awesome view :) Thanks Adam!!<br /><br />Sunday....<br />Katie, Carrie & I took a walk-about around Atlanta and saw more great costumes. Got delicious pumpkin spice lattes (first of the season!). <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5919074621056202914'><img src='https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KmxTYi8IrRg/UiTHAdsVuKI/AAAAAAAAAzY/ScA2u5tv03A/s288/53.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /> Then Sean and I headed to the Aquarium (the largest in the nation apparently). Here are some great pics of the aquarium.....<br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5919074642051013970'><img src='https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-o0Fe82eFte8/UiTHBr55HVI/AAAAAAAAAzg/lP9tfLMFksg/s288/43.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Sting rays, Mantas, Whalesharks & more!!! It was very cool to see manta rays & whale sharks interact, I am not sure they encounter each other in the wild. <br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5919074659158266050'><img src='https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-cbXGS3Zo1k8/UiTHCrolEMI/AAAAAAAAAzo/vrR6RrRosnA/s288/44.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />They are the only aquarium in the nation with Whale sharks!! We have wanted to dive with whalesharks since our first dive trip together!! They are incredible animals!! These whale sharks were shipped to the aquarium via UPS (on planes!!!) from Taiwan!!!! Pretty amazing. You can actually scuba dive (or snorkel) with them in the tanks, but you have to make your reservations 3 months in advance, so no diving or snorkeling for us this weekend :)<br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5919074679906727026'><img src='https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-C7bq85A7j-k/UiTHD47ZdHI/AAAAAAAAAzw/XUAUtQy3rPo/s288/45.jpg' border='0' width='187' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Baluga whale & Sean :) They are soo cute! Very playful, lots of fun to watch.<br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5919074695991923346'><img src='https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-4LyBT0jyG00/UiTHE02aEpI/AAAAAAAAAz4/akE7szpnosQ/s288/47.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Penguins <br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5919074714420921906'><img src='https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-2mVeNGWJRG0/UiTHF5gORjI/AAAAAAAAA0A/7dmoQVzPx5Y/s288/48.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />River otters. Also very playful, hard to take picutres, bc they never slowed down. <br /><br />The aquarium was a great end to an amazing weekend!! We plan to go back someday, maybe even take little William. <br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Atlanta,%20Georgia&z=10'>Atlanta, Georgia</a></p>Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-32456188190458985422013-09-02T09:16:00.001-07:002013-09-02T09:16:24.299-07:00Week 22-24Dates: Aug. 9-Aug 23rd, 2013<br />
<br />
Sorry guys I got a little behind on blogging....<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
How Far Along: 22-24 weeks</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<strong>Size of baby</strong>: (22 wks) wt about 1 pound</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
(24 wks) wt about 1.25 pounds and 12 inches</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<strong>Baby's development</strong>: starting to hear (even outside sounds) and taste buds are developing!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<strong>Gender:</strong> It's aBOY!!!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<strong>Movement</strong>: I William kicking a
lot and moving a lot. The movements are very distinct now and Sean can easily feel them. It is pretty amazing!! I feel them more after eating and drinking my decaf coffee or tea in the am, and especially when I am laying down for bed. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<strong>Symptoms</strong>: I am sleeping well, no complaints most nights. Still have some heartburn, thank goodness for Tums :). Leg swelling that is pretty well controlled with my awesome leg sleeves. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<strong>My Activity</strong>: Still running some, but have slowed down a lot and walk a lot. Wish I was doing more exercises at home, but haven't done much. Sean and I are walking the dogs in the neighborhood a couple times a week which also helps.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<strong>Diet</strong>: I still LOVE my carbs!! But I am trying really hard to eat healthier as I have read Willliam's amniotic fluid will take on the taste of the foods I eat and may affect the foods he likes later on (and I would like him to be a healthy little eater). I do still love my sweets (just like prior to pregnancy, but am trying to limit them also for weight control. I am avoiding most tomato based foods and fried/greasy foods (except French fries) as they give me heart burn. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<strong>Maternity Clothes</strong>: They are starting to fit and look cute. I am starting to get out of the fluffy stage and look more pregnant. I have found some cute maternity clothes and my family has been very helpful and supportive in the search. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<em>Shopping experience</em>: I went to Roanoke for maternity clothes shopping and saw a girl that reminded me of me when I first started looking, she was distraught that noting looked good and she couldn't find anything and her sweet husband was sitting outside her dressing room telling her she looked beautiful, I just wanted to give her a big hug and tell her it will get better. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<strong>My favorite things</strong>... I love feeling the little guys kick! I am talking to him more now that I know he can hear us. I am also trying to be very aware of what music we listen to (throwing in a little classical here and there). </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Baby clothes shopping</strong>...I have gotten many wonderful, adorable outfits from friends and family (Thank you guys!!). AND... I have started shopping for baby clothes!! Yikes I think I may have an addiction! I am having way too much fun with Zulily! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XbGq2l-xMYI/UiS3tOcoCGI/AAAAAAAAAyU/-6pkItoyvd0/s1600/clothes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XbGq2l-xMYI/UiS3tOcoCGI/AAAAAAAAAyU/-6pkItoyvd0/s320/clothes.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Nursery</strong>: We are starting to work on the nursery (unknown theme....work in progress) and William's bathroom (underwater theme). We have picked out colors (rich light brown for nursery & dark blue for bathroom) for both and will start the painting in a couple weeks. We have ordered the crib and are thinking about nursery themes :). But the bathroom is mostly done (except paint), Sean picked out most of the décor :) </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4GFU7LaU8Co/UiS3pg3ktZI/AAAAAAAAAyM/vyH7s-AobYw/s1600/bathroom.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4GFU7LaU8Co/UiS3pg3ktZI/AAAAAAAAAyM/vyH7s-AobYw/s320/bathroom.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Cloth diapering:</strong> This could be a whole blog on it's own!! We have decided to cloth diaper and I have been research cloth diapers, WOW who knew there was soooo much to know!! I have ordered 5 different kinds and am anxiously awaiting their arrival :) I know most people think I am crazy, but it really much different now than it used to be the diapers are pretty amazing!! Don't worry for those of you that think there is NO way I am changing a cloth diaper, I will keep a couple disposables for you to use when you come babysit :) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_HU9bK6JgWI/UiS5och09FI/AAAAAAAAAyg/guvUTMtzbX0/s1600/zu2427212_main_tm1377465111%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_HU9bK6JgWI/UiS5och09FI/AAAAAAAAAyg/guvUTMtzbX0/s320/zu2427212_main_tm1377465111%5B1%5D.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
How cute is this!! This was my first purchased pair of cloth diapers :)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
More to come soon..... </div>
Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-81939959737628104772013-08-18T20:49:00.001-07:002013-08-18T20:49:45.260-07:00Weeks 20-21How Far Along: 20/21weeks<br /><br />Size of baby: 6 1/2 inches, the size of a small cantaloupe<br /><br />Movement: I think I can tell when the little one is kicking... I think. Definitely a lot of fluttering in that area. <br /><br />Cravings: Not much<br /><br />Symptoms: Mild indigestion and some leg swelling, but not much to complain about. <br /><br />Maternity Clothes: Went shopping while in Houston and my wonderful sister helped me pick out some great stuff. Even got a swimming suit. <br /><br />Best memories: Went to Houston for Sommer & Tom's (my cousin) wedding. It was an extravagant, gorgeous wedding for an amazing couple!! It was soo wonderful to see my family. It was the first time I have seen a lot of my extended family since I found out I was pregnant :) We had a wonderful time and were sad to see to leave. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5913672465399100386'><img src='https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-57DuJpPkL3w/UhGVxnofM-I/AAAAAAAAAxk/ybvYufCgTew/s288/35.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The Huggard crew! Can't believe we got a pic with all of us!! <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5913672488589548402'><img src='https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-3upoGtEvTHM/UhGVy-BhW3I/AAAAAAAAAxs/R3MWz9EWAzE/s288/41.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Sean & I at rehearsal dinner. There was an electric bull, but I decided to wait til next time :)<br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5913672502172071426'><img src='https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YMPOFQ49RMg/UhGVzwn2NgI/AAAAAAAAAx0/8jcH8ESzJ_o/s288/37.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Sean & I with my cousins Steve & Amber. Sooo wonderful to see them!<br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5913672538195218178'><img src='https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-IMuymFrVTnM/UhGV120bzwI/AAAAAAAAAx8/Y47pymdnEnE/s288/36.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The "Shaw girls" we look more and more a like as we get older. Soo very luck to have such a wonderful family. So excited to bring our little William into such a great family!<br /><br />I do not have any pictures, but the wedding we attended was for my mom's cousin, Ann's son, Tom. I was named after Ann, it was soo wonderful to get to see her and spend time with her! She is definitely a special lady! What a great weekend!!<br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=July%2026-%20August%208th&z=10'>July 26- August 8th</a></p>Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-70482927509180652622013-07-28T19:17:00.001-07:002013-07-28T19:17:50.729-07:00Weeks 18-19July 12- 25th<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5905856026592472178'><img src='https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-lSQjuzoB9XU/UfXQw_-k7HI/AAAAAAAAAxE/R9lDh_NrQHE/s288/35.jpg' border='0' width='119' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Pregnancy stats...<br />How far along... 18/19 wks <br /><br />Size of baby: an avacado/orange<br /><br />Gender.. Boy!!! <br /><br />Name: William Joseph Collins <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5905856046477389314'><img src='https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Kl4DrU0FCD8/UfXQyKDgrgI/AAAAAAAAAxM/mZ0tasdaw94/s288/36.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Baby's Movement.. I am pretty sure I have felt one swift kick and a lot of little movements that may be William<br /><br />What I miss: hmmm still missing an occasional glass of wine, and being comfortable (sleeping, sitting, in the car)... I know this will get worse and that's okay, it's just starting to be more noticable that there actually is a baby in my belly!<br /><br />Cravings...banana pudding!!!<br /><br />Symptoms..Little heartburn and indigestion<br /><br />Big events... My parents came to visit and got to see our house for the first time! :) It was wonderful to have them!! <br /><br />Best moments... Having my parents here. Also, I have been struggling to find a dress for a wedding coming up. My sister & mom have been amazing shopping for me! After trying 3 dress on and none of them working, my husband took it upon himself to go shopping for me :) He bought me a beautiful pink dress, that I feel like myself in!! What a guy!!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5905856068894733538'><img src='https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Ug7yofogJJ0/UfXQzdkONOI/AAAAAAAAAxU/ZDvkFixfOPg/s288/37.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />My parents brought me my old basinet, that my dad made for me! The blanket was hand made by my Aunt Shirley for me. I am so glad to have a visual reminder that this little guy is on it's way (if my growing belly wasn't enough :) ).<br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-21707687467769254842013-07-12T16:42:00.001-07:002013-07-12T16:42:16.325-07:00Weeks 16 & 17June 28- July 11th<br /><br />Pregnancy stats...<br />How far along... 16/17 wks <br />Size of baby: a lemon/peach<br />Gender.. Not sure, will find out on July 17th if baby is cooperative ( Sean says girl, I say boy, maybe girl... I really have no Idea.<br />Baby's Movement..I am not sure maybe felt something here and there, but not really sure.<br />What I miss: occasional glass of wine, missing it less & less. I did give in & start drinking decaf coffee, it was quite good! <br />Cravings...none<br />Symptoms..starting to be a little more forgetful, not sure if that's pregnancy or not, but that's what my excuse is :)<br /><br />Big events... We moved & sold our house!!!!!! We had a ton of help & somehow got all of our things moved!! We are still unpacking, but are loving our new home. I have a better commute to work, Sean is closer to work & we have a baby room :). <br /><br />My business partner Breann Bailey, MD moved to Richmond. We were so very sad to see her leave, she was is a much esteemed colleague & a wonderful friend. Wishing her the very best & look forward to her returning when her husband finished his residency. In the mean time I think I will be making more shopping trips to Richmond :)<br /><br />Best moments... Seeing family (Mom Collins, Kurt & Serena)& friends (Adam & Sean) & sharing our exciting news! Ohh I have discovered that I actually do love baths!!! <br /><br />The move....<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5899878417053136322'><img src='https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-QroDtspzVe4/UeCUKVJyNcI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/uanlFbkdR5o/s288/43.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />New house :)<br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5899878457672431810'><img src='https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-9gQPwF3DDNU/UeCUMseLeMI/AAAAAAAAAwY/2N2ny6s0J2s/s288/42.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Unpacking... You can appreciate a little baby belly :)<br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5899878518157619762'><img src='https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qKuciPI149I/UeCUQNy-MjI/AAAAAAAAAwg/4ONZw7JCW6k/s288/37.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Installation of chandelier!! Eek, glad I was at work!<br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5899878564136964082'><img src='https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JMirLdlywpI/UeCUS5FTT_I/AAAAAAAAAwo/N-HDjjUZfmw/s288/36.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Having the chandelier really made it feel more like our home, the flowers were a nice touch too :). Thanks mom & dad!<br /><br />Farewell to Bre <br /><br /><center><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5899878593703675250'><img src='https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-LcxayjNca5g/UeCUUnOjhXI/AAAAAAAAAww/2NC2quQN_7Q/s288/35.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The APCA Peds crew, (left to right) Carrie (our nurse), Sofia (pediatrician), Danielle (our nurse), Bre (pediatrician), Hope (pediatrician), & me<br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4905104462928239646.post-85086730386193670792013-06-24T20:58:00.001-07:002013-06-24T21:00:08.343-07:00First gifts...Soo... I forgot to include some very important details in my last blog. Little baby Collins is very blessed to already have many people who adore him or her & has already started receiving presents!! <br /><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5893264971348313794'><img src='https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-k8vKleQ4oBk/UckVRIB4BsI/AAAAAAAAAv4/kBWXEElcrJ8/s288/35.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a><br />This is baby's first official gift from Aunt Lizzie, she wanted to be sure she/ he had their own bunny.<br /><a href='https://picasaweb.google.com/117362807529924674650/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCLCsoceP4v_owgE#5893265024912054354'><img src='https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1l-mOt4dTaM/UckVUPkd2FI/AAAAAAAAAwA/0qKBLvZfysc/s288/37.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a><br />This is from Robin to be sure our little one stays warm, sine we are expecting in December! :) <br />We are so blessed to have such wonderful friends & family! Thanks guys!!<br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br /><br />Hokies in the Hollowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00637350033359871305noreply@blogger.com0