The Latest Information from Inside the White House

A Record for Me

2011-01-31T18:09:00.000-08:00

I am so ashamed that I haven't posted on the blog in almost one year. My.Goodness!

Nothing really new is going on in the White House. Bobby has been working hard and just got back from his national sales meeting in San Diego. We missed him but while he was gone, GiGi (my grandmother) came to stay with us for 3 nights. Boy am I glad she was hear because Trace had a cold and an ear infection. We are on day 5 of Omnicef, hoping for no reaction that we received (rash) from the penicillin he had last year due to an ear infection.

I am pretty much writing this blog because I have been TERR.I.BLE at writing anything down about Trace and so this is my record of the latest things. I can not tell you the date his 2 year molars came in, the first time he used the potty, etc. I am so awful! Therefore, the below is the memories I have so far but obviously are the most recent things going on (I can't remember what happened after the last post). :)

Please enjoy if you would like to read the rest - Don't judge spelling, grammar or punctuation because I typed this fast and off the top of my head.

Some of Trace's updates:

Loves eating chicken nuggets and french fries

Loves ANYTHING chocolate - still working on vegetables

Loves hiding from us and not answering when we call his name (This is NOT cool). I lost him in Dick's Sporting Goods for approximately 10 seconds that felt like 3 hours. He was just standing on the other side of the rack I was looking at but was not answering when I called his name. He was in trouble!!

He will come up to us and give us a hug and say " I love you , Mommy" or "I love you, Daddy"

He will tell us "Give me kisses" or "Give me hugs"

He can count to 20

He enjoys singing Jesus Loves Me, Old McDonald (sometimes he will sing Ole McDonald had a poopie-we did not teach him that), Jesus Loves the Little Children, Bumble Bees, "x" marks the spot, Yankee Doodle and any other song on his Fischer-Price Sing-A-Long CD.

I am still working with him on colors. Right now, every time you ask him a color-it's always blue or orange. I am trying not to freak out in thinking he may be color blind.

He is EXTREMELY bossy! (Wonder who he gets that from? ;) )

Trace is becoming very independent - wants to get in the bathtub himself, get in his highchair himself, take his clothes off himself. If we try to do something for him, he says "No, I do it myself" or "Let me do it!"

He loves apple juice (still diluting it with water because if I don't, he will chug the juice in .5 seconds)

Some funny things he has said lately:He picked up a pair of my earrings (large black and white stripe) and asked "What's these? They go on the Christmas tree?"

I was rubbing his cheek one morning and he said "No, don't pet me. I not a doggie"

If you ask him "Are you a good boy or are you big boy?" He will respond by saying "No, I Trace White."

He cheers "U-S-C, Go Gamecocks" or "Boo Tigers, Go Gamecocks." Sometimes he says "Goo Georgia" because Drew (the little boy at MiMi's house) pulls for Georgia and he hears Drew say it. It's so cute because he knows when he says it, I will say "nooooo."

He loves goin to MiMi and Chuck's (Hun's) house everyday. Zanna (4), Addy (3) and Drew (3) are his playmates and loves seeing them everyday. On the weekend, he will ask "Can I go to MiMi's?"

He also loves playing with our sweet neighbor, Peyton (9). He will ask me if we can go get Peyton sometimes and bring her to our house. Her parents will let her come play and then Trace and I walk her back to her house.

We have two small hills in our yard (one on each side) and Trace loves "running the hill." Everyday we get home from work and he will ask to go and run the hill.

His favorite toys are his styrophome letters that he plays with in the bathtub, his red and yellow coupe car, any ball, tractor or car.

He loves watching the Fresh Beat Band, Bob the Builder, Thomas the Train and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.

If Bobby or I open the computer, Trace will say "I watch trains on the puter" or "I watch tractor stuck in mud on puter." He loves to watch tractors, monster trucks or trains on youtube - especially if they are stuck in the snow or mud. He is definitley ALL BOY and WE LOVE HIM SO MUCH!

Bobby and I are so blessed to be able to be Trace's parents and I can't wait to see what is in store for us. Don't hold your breathe for the next blog update. :)

A Visit from GiGi

2010-03-16T17:10:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday, Bobby left to go to New Orleans on a business trip. Since he was going to be gone, it was a good excuse to get my grandmother (Trace's GiGi) to come stay with me and Trace. When GiGi is here, we eat sooo good! On Thursday she decided to make steak and gravy, macaroni-n-cheese and green beans. Sooo YUMMY! A friend of mine from work, Neal, heard what was for dinner and decided she wanted to see just how good grandma's cooking really was. She and her boyfriend, Sammi, came over for dinner and we had a really great time! Trace really enjoyed the all the attention they gave him. He is kind of like his daddy (likes to be the center of attention...gotta love them!!)

In these pictures, Neal is holding Trace while Sammi is putting pieces of my dried plant in his face.

On Thursday, GiGi decided she wanted to keep Trace while I went to work. I understand they had a GREAT time! I took Friday off from work and we decided to go on a shopping spree. GiGi bought Trace a cute outfit for the summer that included sunglasses that he absolutely LOVES and acts so "cool" when he has them on.

GiGi wearing Trace's new hat that matches his shorts.

Notice the sunglasses in Trace's hands. GiGi had just been attacked by our cat, Willie.

Grandma was supposed to leave on Saturday because she had a hair appointment in Spartanburg and Bobby came back on Saturday. However, she decided to stay an extra night and keep Trace while Bobby and I enjoyed a date night to Outback Steakhouse. It was so nice to have a night where we didn't have to worry and just enjoy each other's company. She even kept Trace Sunday morning while we went to church. Unfortunately, she has a life at home she had to get back to and had to leave Sunday afternoon. Come back soon, GiGi! We love and miss you!!

We're Back....

2010-02-17T16:56:00.000-08:00

Not sure for how long though. I just can't get the hang of this blog thing. So for now, I will update you on what has been going on. It will probably be a long blog because I'm not sure when you will get the next update. :)

Since the last post (almost 5 months ago!!), we have trick-or-treated, been on a hay ride and gone to a petting zoo, Bobby and I both had birthdays (turned 28), took a horse and buggy at Saluda Shoals to look at Christmas lights, celebrated Jesus' birthday, Bobby and I went to Birminghma, AL to watch the Gamecocks play in the PapaJohns.com Bowl, welcomed 2010, my sweet grandfather passed away (who I miss terribly), played in 5" of snow, all have been sick (some still are) and so here we are today.

You don't really want to hear about what me and Bobby are doing, do you? You really want to hear about Trace and what he has been up to. So, let me tell you, he is into EVERYTHING! He is AMAZING! I can't tell you how much we are enjoying this age and stage of life. He is becoming such a little man and I love it!

He is still a little runt and not even registering on the weight chart but climbing the height chart a little bit. haha Hopefully, he will be a good baseball player or golfer! Football doesn't look likes it's in his future unless he wants to be the kicker. (But really-who knows?)

Some of the things he is doing and some of the things he enjoys:

-playing with "WeWe" (Willie, our cat)

-calling out for "Bice" (Brice, our dog)

-running around the house

-flushing the toilet

-burping (when we ask him to..haha..I know we probably shouldn't teach him that..but it's fun)

-showing us his teeth

-waving at EVERYONE and saying "hi" or "hey"

-blowing kisses

-pointing out body parts (head, eyes, nose, mouth, teeth, "peepee", feet, knees)

-counting (well really he can't count yet but likes it when I do and tries to move his fingers in counting motion)

-"sing" he loves Old McDonald, Jesus Loves Me, ABC's

-"books"-he loves reading and will now bring us books to read-he likes the books with the tabs that have pictures hidden in them

-"eat"-he loves to eat (goldfish, bananas ("ba" or "nana"), green beans ("bains"-so country)

-says potty as "pa-e" and knows where it is and what it means

-loves helping "hup" with everything

-loves his "mama" and "dada"

-now sometimes will say "bobby" when he sees Daddy or when I address Bobby as "Bobby'

-loves to say"ba-be" when he sees a baby

-loves "trucks" and points them out all the time riding down the road...actually anything with wheels is considered a "truck"

-loves schoolbuses "bu"

-has learned to say "peas" when he needs something from one of us

-says "up" when he wants up or down and will only say "down" when we prompt him to say it

-can tell you what a cat, duck, dog, elephant, cow and monkey say

-knows what a "bike" is and tell us when he sees one

-is doing very well at feeding himself with a fork and spoon

Here are some pictures from the last 5 months.

Happy Halloween, 2009!

PapaJohns.com Bowl (the coldest I have ever been in my life!)

Christmas 2009

Snow 2010 (sorry excuse for a snowman!..ha)

"Show me your teeth"

Eating spaghetti with his spoon and fork

One Year Old

2009-10-16T18:49:00.000-07:00

On September 29th, Trace turned 1!! We celebrated at our house with family and a few close friends. It was a great day and Trace did so well. I was really worried about him stressing because of everyone being around him or too much lovin'. He was GREAT! He LOVES being the center of attention, so this was right up his alley. Instead of a traditional cake, we had a cupcake cake in the shape of "1."

However, Trace did have his own cake and loved it!! He got into serious mode when it came time for the cake. No smiles - strictly business. He had it all over his hands, the chair, his birthday outfit and his face. We had a great day celebrating with friends and family!

Fun Notes on Trace:

First step on August 28th, 2009 (hasn't slowed down since)
He has 8 teeth and cutting his 9th
Loves sleeping with his elephant
Loves his new "big boy" carseat

Says Da-Da, Cat and Dat (when he points at EVERYTHING)

He waves and says bye-bye

If you ask him what a cat says or when he sees our cat, he says (2 octaves higher) "be-a, be-a" It is sooo cute!

Our cat's name is Willie and when we call for him, Trace will also try and call him by saying "WeWe"

He points to lights if you ask him where the light is.

He knows where his mouth is. If you ask him where is nose is, he bangs on his head (we need to do some work there!)

If you ask him to "love" something, he will put his head on whatever it is and cuddle with it. He especially likes to do this with Willie.

He is just such a joy to be around. I can't get over how fast he is learning new things. He got an alphabet train for this birthday and it is amazing that he knew exactly what to do with it to make it "work."

Trace is going to be a monkey and possibly a chicken for Halloween-so check back for Halloween pictures.

11 Month Old Update

2009-09-02T18:28:00.000-07:00

Well, once again it has been awhile since the last update. Trace is now 11 months and 4 days old. Things have been great around the house since Trace's arrival almost a year ago but they are getting even better.

Trace is starting to wean himself off of baby food and loves eating "real" food. He loves shredded cheddar cheese, chicken or turkey sticks, green beans, spaghetti, fresh fruit and Gripz by Cheez-its.

Last Friday Bobby and I had the joy of witnessing his first step. YAY! We were shocked because it happened out of nowhere. We just kind of looked at each other like "did you see what I saw?" Since his first step, he has taken quite a few more steps but still not really walking. Just random steps every now and then. So exciting to watch him learn new things.

He loves sharing now. He likes to feed me now instead of himself. He thinks it is funny if I open my mouth and he gives me the food. He has also started "playing" with us. For instance, if I roll him the ball he will pick it up and give it back to me so I can do it again. I am absolutely loving this!!

It is amazing what children learn from each other. I love watching him play at Muriel with Zanna (3) and Drew (2). He will crawl right over with them and just look at them and then try to partake in whatever they are doing. His most recent trick is standing in an upside down "V" with his head on the ground like he is about to a front flip. He sees Zanna do it all the time. I normally don't mind him doing that except for when he tries to do it in the bathtub and submerges his head right in the water. He loves giving me a heart attack.

His recent babbling is starting to turn into words or as much of words as he can say. He always says "Da-da" when we get home and he looks around the corner to look for Bobby to see if he is on the couch. It's so cute. We have a cat named Willie and Trace will say "dat" when Willie is around. He loves chasing Willie around the house. Normally Willie doens't let him get too close because when he does, Trace just hits him. He has also been saying what sounds like "duck" when I say "truck" or "Chuck"(Muriel's (Trace's sitter) husband).

Hopefully it won't be too long for the next update.

Often Wondered

2009-07-25T17:03:00.000-07:00

I have often wondered what I would have looked like back in the days. One of my friends found this website and I think it is absolutely hilarious!! Here is what I would have looked back in the day. Not quite sure I would married anyone if I really looked this. haha

Cruising Along

2009-07-15T16:48:00.000-07:00

I know I say this everytime, but I am awful at this blogging thing. I am sooo sorry and am sorry I can't promise to do better but I will promise to try.

A lot of things have been happening since my last post. Trace is 9.5 months old and all over the place. He crawls everywhere and is now pulling up and cruising along furniture and walking behind push toys all by himself. I love wathcing him learn new skills. Check him out walking at the link below.

I am sorry it is sideways but that is the way I held the camera and I don't know how to flip it.

This past week we were able to spend a week with my family at my parents beach house in Ocean Lakes (between Myrtle and Garden City). Trace was surrounded by his family that loves him so so much (Papa Hoover and GiGi (Great Grandparents), Papa and Gammy (my parents), Uncle Robert, Aunt Autumn and me and Bobby). We loved spending the week with him and watching him on the beach. He absolutely loved the beach. He loved crawling around, trying to eat seashells, eating sand, playing in the hole Bobby had to build him everyday so we could sit down for 5 minutes. He loved his sand toys that my parents gave him for Christmas. He also loved daily golf cart rides.I really feel like he grew up a lot while we were at the beach. He started using his voice inflections when talking and babbling. He now knows how to get our attention when he wants or doesn't want something...screams loud, clinches his fist and scrunches his eyes. He has eight teeth but I am terrified to give him table food. I have given him watermelon, mashed potatoes, apple sauce and maybe a few more things. I let Muriel (his sitter) do all that. She has given him english muffin, scrambled eggs, pasta, icy pops and probably some more that I don't want to know about. I know I have to get over it. I will have the only child in America who is five years old who is still eating baby food.
I can't wait for my next update. It will probaby be a post about his one year old birthday party. :)

First Beach Trip

2009-05-26T18:36:00.000-07:00

Trace had his first beach trip this past weekend with his Ganma and Papa Andrews. I am so blessed to have such wonderful parents. They took Trace to the beach with them soBobby and I could go to Edisto for our 4th Anniversary for some rest and relaxation. It was so nice to spend some time with just the two of us. However, we did miss Trace alot and were sooo excited to see him when we got home. (He was excited to see us too!)

Mom said Trace didn't like the water very much and the sand was just "okay." We are going to have to get him used to the beach because we love it and will spend a lot of time there. The whole family is going in July, so we will try the sand and water thing again.

Since our last update (a month ago..so sorry!) Trace has changed so much. He still only has 6 teeth but is a mover-a quick mover. He is crawling all over the place and sometimes with his right leg straight out. It is soo cute. He has started pulling up onto everything. Some of the things he likes:

-Sitting on Daddy's shoulders

-Looking, laughing and talking to himself in the mirror (he knows he is adorable)

-Reading and chewing on his books

-Night time bottle/cuddle with Mommy

-Playing on our down comforter in Mommy and Daddy's bed

-Loves chewing on the car seat strap when in the car

-Chewing on the pink pig on his teething necklace

-Standing on all 4's like a monkey

-Loves eating his veggies and fruit

-Crawling away from anyone who tries to change his diaper or his clothes

-bath time (normally I am as wet as he is when he gets out)

They Come in Two's

2009-04-23T18:17:00.000-07:00

Teeth that is.....at least that is the way it is working for Trace. Trace got his bottom two teeth at the same time a little over a month ago. Around two weeks ago, we noticed his top two teeth starting to come in. They are now in but not all the way. Yesterday, he let me put my finger in his mouth (without biting me!) and I felt MORE teeth. Yes, both teeth on either side of his front two teeth are coming in now as well. I am glad we are getting this over with all at the same time.

In the middle of cutting a mouth full of teeth, he has learned to sit up by himself and is doing such a good job. He is getting better at sitting for longer periods of time while holding toys, reaching for toys and eating toys. He has also started the first stage of crawling. He is on all "4's." He can move his knees to progress forward but when he starts moving his arms, he falls down. However, the determined little fella gets right up and tries again.

Some of the things he has been enjoying are: walking in the walker at MiMi's (Muriel), chewing on his teething necklace, grunting/screaming when he does not get his way or wants something, sitting up, getting on all-fours, laughing out loud, being tickled, talking to people, riding in cars, going for walks, playing with Willie (our cat), playing in his excersaucer, pulling Mommy's hair, laughing at Daddy, rolling over while we try to change his diaper (this is fun), taking baths and splashing EVERYWHERE and so much more.

Hopefully it will not take a month for another update. The White House has been pretty busy.

Poor Baby

2009-03-13T18:22:00.001-07:00

Well, two doctors appointments in one week-poor baby! I was really trying to make it to March 27th for his 6 month check-up. Oh well.
Last Wednesday I took Trace to the doctor because of white stuff in his mouth. I didn't think it was just milk, but I needed an expert's opinion. I was right-it was thrush. YUCK! At this appointment, Trace weighed in at 14 lbs, 15 oz. Dr. Kapp gave Trace medicine for the thrush that I had to give to him 4 times a day. I also had to sterilize his passies and nipples after every use.
Last weekend, I decided to venture out and take Trace to his first Carolina Baseball game. While there, he started holding his ears like they were hurting him. I was thinking the music was too loud or something. Sunday morning he woke up pretty congested and chewing on everything three times as much as he already does. I immediately went to Walgreens to buy some Orajel because I felt like he was about to cut a tooth.
Monday morning as soon as I got him out of his crib he threw up all over himself because of the drainage. I took his temperature and it was 101.6. I called into work and Bobby and I split the day to stay at home with him. I was then hoping it was the 24-hour bug. He progressively got worse Monday so I called my grandmother and she very graciously came to stay with Trace Tuesday morning so Bobby and I could go to work. His fever broke Monday night/Tuesday morning but continued to feel so bad. All he did was moan like he was aching. He was holding both of his ears and any noise would make him cry. He wasn't sleeping, I wasn't sleeping, no on in the White House was sleeping-not a happy time as you can imagine. My grandmother stayed with him and we took him to the doctor on Thursday because I then had diagnosed him with ear infection(s).
First things first, the weigh-in. This time Trace weighed 14 lbs, 8 oz. He had lost 5 oz. The doctor said it was due to his lack of appetite. Dr. Kapp said his ears looked great and his lungs sounded great. So he looked in his mouth and the little monkey has his two bottom teeth coming in. I can feel both of them now and I am so excited. After testing for the flu and strep, he said it is probably a mix between the teething and a viral cold. Sad news-there is nothing I can give him. He did say I could rub liquid Benadryl (sp) on his gums to help them feel better. That stuff is great! Now I am trying to get Trace back to his normal appetite. I was supposed to start him on cereal last week and have not been able to do so because of the congestion. The doctor said I could go ahead with it but Trace just isn't in the mood for anything new right now. All he wants to do is sleep, whine and occasionally play in his bouncer. He is a little trooper but it makes me so sad to him hurting like he is. I hope the rest of the 18 teeth aren't like this. I just might go crazy!!
GiGi, my grandmother, stayed with us until Friday afternoon. I am so thankful God blessed us with such a wonderful, healthy family. I am so fortunate that my grandmother can drive here and stay with us. I know my papa missed her but was willing to give her up for a couple of days. Thanks Papa!
Once the teeth pop all the way through, I will try to snap a picture. He hasn't felt like me messing in his mouth lately. I wonder why??

One Cool Dude!

2009-03-02T09:41:00.000-08:00

This past weekend Bobby, Trace and I went to Pamplico, SC (outside of Florence) to visit my best friend Julie and her husband who just built a gorgeous new house and we had to go see it. Julie is 7 months pregnant and I went with her to register at Target. While there, I couldn't help but look for things for Trace and I found these adorable baseball sunglasses and Trace thought he was the coolest kid on the block. I am so glad he is laid back and lets me play with him like this. What a cutie pie??
He is changing everyday. His personality is really starting to come out and he is a little goof ball (a lot like his daddy). He is into spitting at all times and in particularly when he is drinking his milk. He also has been gurgling his milk. It is the cutest thing and I know I probably shouldn't laugh at it, but I love to watch him explore all the things he is learning.
He has now decided he likes to roll 360. If I put him on his stomach, he will roll over on his back and then roll back up on his stomach and then roll over on his back again, etc, etc, etc. I am loving it. He is trying to scoot and is doing a pretty good job. He needs to learn how to lift his head when he scoots though. He starts on his stomach-head up. He then lifts himself up into a v position and the head goes down. He pushes with his feet but his head is in the way. When I figure out how to use the video camera and put video on here, I will do it so you can see what a big boy he is becoming.
Oh yeah, still waiting for Momma and Dadda.

Big Boy!

2009-02-18T17:47:00.001-08:00

I know it has been awhile, once again! I am getting really slack at this blog thing. I am trying not to be on the internet when I get home from work so spend more time with Bobby and Trace.
So, Trace is growing up so fast. Can I just tell you I have always heard that you just can't explain the love you have for a child; but I never understood it until we had Trace. That statement is SO TRUE! It is also a reminder to me that we think we love our children so much, but God loves us (his children) so much more than we can love our own. I can't imagine, but it is a great feeling to know we are sooo loved! I really have no idea why I am getting deep here but maybe someone who reads this needs to hear it.
Bobby and I are enjoying Trace so much and watching him change everyday. He has started rolling over consistently now from his tummy to his back. It is soo cute! He is pulling his legs under him while he is on his tummy. I am waiting for that first scoot. He has rolled over from his back to his tummy one time while I wasn't looking. I am so sad I missed it.
We also put together his excersaucer the other day and he absolutely loves it. We weren't sure if he would be able to sit up in it great since there is so much space in there. He definitley surprised us they way he moves from one side to the other to find all the toys on it. He loves to flip the little green frog and look at himself in the mirror. I also put links on it and he loves to pull himself into the links and try to eat them. Eat them, ahh yes, he is trying eat everything he comes in contact with (fingers, mommy's fingers, daddy's nose, cell phone, books, toys and his favorite toy-keys). I am feeling around for teeth but don't feel anything just yet. He has been drooling so much and has had a runny nose for the last couple of days so I am not sure if it is just a cold or if he is about to cut a tooth. Let me also tell you how much he loves his daddy! I love to watch their interaction with each other. Trace will stare at Bobby and he thinks everything Bobby does is funny. He cackles, out loud, all the time at him. If I try to do the same thing Bobby is doing that is making him laugh, he just looks at me like I am stupid or something. I guess I am old news. The biggest thing for me is I decided put Trace in his crib in his own bedroom Monday night. He normally sleeps in his pack-n-play right beside my side of the bed. He was starting to wake up everytime Bobby or I would roll over or get out of the bed. (Our bed squeaks a little bit) I was not sleeping as well because I would wake up everytime he moved. I was honestly tired of getting dressed in the dark, whispering when we went to bed, tip-toing around him. So Monday was the night. He did WONDERFUL! Much better than his mommy! I cried my little heart out. Bobby thought I was a little crazy, but it was sad to see his pack-n-play in our room and our baby boy not in it. By the way, the pack-n-play is still in our room, just in case he needs to come back. :) I put him in his crib about 9:00 Monday night and he slept until 5:15. I didn't sleep at all because I was too worried about listening to the monitor to make sure I could hear him breathe. And you know the 15 times I couldn't hear anything I was in his room checking on him. I got enough excercise going from one end of the house to the other to last me a whole week. Last night was great for Trace again and much better for me. I put him in his crib around the same time and he whimpered a few minutes and then fell asleep and slept until 5:15 again. However, last night he woke up around 1:15 screaming. Bobby went in to check on him and found Trace has pushed his leg all the way through the rail of the crib. That is kind of scary but my mom assures me that his circulation will not get cut off and he will cry if he is uncomfortable and we will just reposition him.

Four Months Already??

2009-01-31T09:54:00.001-08:00

Where does the time go? On Trace's 4 month birthday, January 29th, 2008, we went to the doctor for his 4 month check-up. We got a great report. Trace now weighs in at 13 lbs. 4 oz. He has gained almost 8 lbs since he was born. They said he was doing wonderful. He has grown 6.5 inches since birth making him 24.5 inches long. My doctor is one of these who would perfer for me not to start him cereal until around 5.5 or 6 months. I am going to abide by his wishes and wait. He said if I wait then he will only have to eat cereal for about one week and then I can start him on fruits and vegatables (no meat until 9 months). I am sooo excited for Trace to enter the next phase of his life. It will be so fun to see his face when he gets "real food" for the first time.
He is a still a little shrimp though. He is still in his 3 month outfits. I bought him some 6 month outfits so that he could wear them in the winter thinking he would have fit. It looks I will be taking them back.
We are really enjoying everything he is doing now. He knows when Bobby and I are around and kicks his feet, pumps his arms and get really excited. He is not blowing as many bubbles anymore but is definitely drooling alot. He loves standing up (with our help of course) and loves taking baths.
He has been sleeping like a champ. He usually eats his final feeding between 7-8 o'clock and then doesn't want you to rock him when it is time for bed. He wants to go straight to his bed. He will fuss for a few minutes and then dose right off to sleep. And yes he is still in our bedroom. I just can't move him yet. I know though the longer I wait, the harder it will be. He normally will sleep from about 8:30 or 9:00 to 5:30. I am definitely not complaining about that. Muriel (MiMi) the lady that keeps Trace, told me not to get too used to it. I won't but will enjoy it while it lasts.

Fun with a GREAT Friend!!

2009-01-24T18:22:00.000-08:00

Jennifer and Trace after his bath.
Trace and I were so excited to learn that Jennifer was going to come see us. I know we missed a great time at Jonathan Stutts' 30th birthday party! HAPPY BIRTHDAY JONATAHN!

Jennifer and I grew up together since 4th grade. We lived in the same neighborhood, went to the same church, same school, same after school babysitter, lived at each other's houses, same name (haha)...you could not seperate us!

After high school, Jennifer #2 decided to go to the "Orange" school (Clemson). I stayed and went to Spartanburg Methodist College. Later I decided to go with Bobby to the University of South Carolina. We have had fun ever since being "rivals."

It always great to see her and I am going to be her matron of honor in her wedding in April. Here are some cute pictures that she took while I gave Trace a bath tonight. We love and miss her and can't wait to see her again!

Trace praying for baseball season to start!!

It's Been Awhile

2009-01-19T07:06:00.000-08:00

Ok. So I know it has been awhile since I last updated the blog. Updating more often should have been my New Year's resolution. Since the last post, we have celebrated Christmas in Spartanburg and North Augusta, Trace was in the hospital (he is fine now and was actually fine then-Praise Jesus!), Bobby and I traveled to Tampa for the bowl game which we would like to soon forget, my prents kept Trace for 4 days while we were gone, we welcomed in 2009, and so much more.

My little man is getting so big now. We go for his 4 month check-up on January 29th (his 4 month birthday!!). I can't wait to see how much he has grown. I think I am almost ready to start him on cereal but his doctor is one of those who says "no way" until 5.5 or 6 months. I will talk to him about it next week. Trace is starting to sit up (with our help of course), he tries to pull himself up when he is in his carseat or on your lap, he likes to stand in your lap, he smiles all the time, blows bubbles, sticks his tongue out and is now really sucking his thumb. He loves his new learning puppy Santa brought himl. It is about as big as he is. He just smiles and talks to it. It is the cutest thing ever.

God is Good

2008-12-19T17:58:00.000-08:00

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."-Matthew 6:34

That is exactly what I tried not to do when it came to finding someone or some place to keep Trace. Back in May when I started looking for childcare, many of the places I looked for had 8 months to 2 year waiting lists and they were pretty expensive as well. I was wondering what in the world I was going to do. I would visit places and tell them when I was due and they would look at me like I was crazy because they said I had waited so late. I prayed and prayed that we would find somewhere for Trace to stay but never was too worried about it. Friends of mine would ask me where Trace was going to stay and I would tell them I had no idea. They would be freaking out for me.
I put him on two daycare waiting lists. One place couldn't take him until January and the other place he was 17th on the list.
Finally, Trace came and people continued to ask me where he was going to stay when I returned to work and I would continue to tell them I have no idea. I had somewhere for January but needed somewhere for him to stay in December. I thought maybe I can ask my Grandmother and friends to keep him for the 3 weeks I will be working in December.
Then one day Bobby came home from work and told me about a lady that he worked with who told him about her daughter's caregiver. She (Natalie) suggested we call Muriel (caregiver). Muriel kept Natalie's husband when he was a child and is now keeping their little girl. I was kind of skeptical at first because I didn't know Natalie and so I didn't really know how reliable the source was. Of course, I thought my standards could have been higher than hers for childcare. But open minded, we called Muriel. Muriel said she would be more than happy to meet with us and asked us to come while the children are in her home so we can see how she interacts. She keeps a 2 year old girl and a 1 year little boy. She had also committed to keeping newborn twins in January. Her husband wasn't sure if she should take on a 5th child (Trace). We met with her anyway in hopes she would change her mind. We loved her from the first day we met her and she said she would at least keep him in December until the daycare could take him. The daycare where Trace was on the waiting list was $150/month. Muriel charges $80/month. WOW!! Big difference!
Trace started with Muriel December 1st. He loves her and she loves him! Her and her husband just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary and they both keep the children. She has been keeping children 27 years and has kept around 54 children during that time. I would say she is pretty experienced.
She is AWESOME! Everyday I pick him up she has written down his day. i.e. when he ate, bm's, laughed, smiled, talked, etc. She takes him outside everyday for around 40-45 mintutes with the other children and in the spring time will take them on walks.
After the first day with Trace she said she would hate for me to put him in a daycare and that let's play this by ear to see how well they adjust to each other. Today, I have good news because Muriel committed to keeping him FOREVER!!! I AM SO EXCITED!
God is soooo good! I knew there was nothing to worry about and that he would provide for us and put Trace in good hands. It means so much to be able to leave your child somewhere and not have a worry in the world about what he is doing and if they are taking care of him like you would. Murield and Chuck are a God send and we couldn't have asked for a better situation.
God is good all the time, all the time God is good!!

New Trick

2008-12-14T17:17:00.000-08:00

It has been two weeks now since I updated you on what was going on in the White House. Trace and I survived my first week back at work and it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. I was really sad to leave him the first day but did well by only tearing up a little bit. I only called to check on him once per day for the first 3 days. Honestly, I love the lady he is staying with so I wasn't nearly as worried about him as I thought I would be.

Now to Trace's new trick. He is becoming so much fun. He just laughs, talks and smiles all the time now. He is now grabbing his toys and holding on to them and pulls them close to his mouth But the best thing so far is that last night he rolled over. Yes, rolled over from his tummy to his back!! He was playing on his little gym and I put him down to do tummy time and all the sudden he pushed up on his side and the next thing I know he had rolled over. I couldn't believe he had just done it so I put him on his tummy again and he immediately rolled to the other side. Of course we had to get it on video and if I knew how to download video to the computer I would put it on here. He did it about 3 or 4 more times and then I had to call my mom, grandma and Julie and tell them.

This morning when I dropped him off at the sitters I told her about him rolling over. I was hoping he would roll over for her. When I picked him up this afternoon she said he wouldn't do it for her and he hasn't done it again for us tonight. But at least I know he can do it and I can't wait for him to show us his trick when he ready again. We are really enjoying every minute with him and it is really going by fast.

Back to Work

2008-11-30T06:54:00.000-08:00

I have to go back to work tomorrow. :( Honestly, though, I don't think being a stay at home mom is for me. I need a routine, somewhere to go everyday, some reason to get out of my pajamas (I know I would take Trace places) but on the days I don't have to go anywhere it would be hard for me to get dressed to stay around the house.
I have enjoyed every minute of these past weeks with Trace and I will be sad to leave him. He is going to stay with a lady in Irmo named Muriel in December. She has been keeping children for 27 years and has kept around 54 children over those years. WOW! She is super nice so I am really not worried a bit. She told me I could call her every hour to check on him. I will try not to. :)
She currently keeps a 2 and 1 year old and is supposed to be keeping twin newborns in January. Her husband doesn't think she should take on a 5th child (Trace) once the newborns get here. Let's pray that her husband changes her mind so Trace can stay with her in January. If not, then Trace will be going to Red Apple Daycare/Preschool (which is fine too).
I will keep you posted on how tomorrow goes. Please keep me and Trace in your prayers as he adjusts to something new and I readjust to going back to work.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-28T18:39:00.000-08:00

Bobby and I are so fortunate that both of our families live within 1.5 hours of Columbia. We always alternate holidays and this year it was our turn to spend Thanksgiving with Bobby's family. My parents, brother and his girlfriend came up on Wednesday to spend the day with us since wewouldn't be home for Turkey Day. Mom and Dad hung his letters over his crib and the shelf I painted. You can't tell from the picture, but I painted little baseballs on the hooks of the shelf. Now all I need is the ties for the bumper pad and the glider and his room will pretty much be complete besides some odds and ends.

Before they left to go back home, we all went to Fatz. This was Trace's first restaurant outing and he was AWESOME! He fell asleep once we got in there and then of course once our food came he started to get a little fussy. Bobby took the initiative to take him to the restroom to see if he needed a diaper change. After about 5 minutes (seemed like 30) Bobby and happy Trace came back to the table. "That was an adventure" says Bobby. I was like oh goodness, what happened? Bobby said "Well, I took off his dirty diaper and went to put on the new one and I couldn't find it. I looked down and saw it floating in the toilet." :) But he proceeded to tell us that the inside part of the diaper was facing up and it didn't get wet and the outside part of the diaper is "just like Rain-X-it drips right off." haha So Trace came back to the table with a diaper Bobby had just pulled out of the toilet. Whatever works!

On Thanksgiving we went to Bobby's house in North Augusta and Trace got to see his Nana and Papa White, Aunt Megan, Uncle Michael and great grammy and pop pop Flake. He also got to meet all of his Great Aunts and Uncles and cousins that he had never before. It was a lot of fun. Other than being really sleepy and a little tummy ache, Trace was great. We had a great time and look forward to seeing the family again at Christmas.

Healthy Boy!

2008-11-25T12:34:00.000-08:00

Trace had his 8 week check up today and we are so thankful we have a happy, healthy growing boy! He has grown almost 4 " and is up to 21 3/4" long and weighs 9 lbs 12oz. The doctor says he is doing great. Can you believe I didn't really have any questions for the doctor today? I know the doctor had to have been shocked. He did say that Trace will probably not sleep all the way through the night until he is around 11 or 12 lbs. I am going to pack in the formula!!

I think it should be required that babies go to the doctor once a week (just to get weighed). He is not supposed to go back for 8 more weeks at his 4 month check-up. I need the reassurance that he is doing well and his weight is on track. I am sure we will see the doctor before then. ( I am sure there will not be a great reason either). Maybe I should just purchase a scale for babies?!?!

Eight Weeks!

2008-11-24T18:43:00.000-08:00

Time flies! I can't believe Trace is already 8 weeks old. We go for his 8 week check-up tomorrow and I am anxious to see how his growth is progressing.

Since the last post, things have changed a good bit. We started him on soy formula and it has made a world of difference. He eats now around 10:00 pm and then sleeps until 3:30 or 4:00 to eat again. Once he goes down after that feeding, he doesn't eat again until around 10:00 am (and he usually sleeps until close to 10:00). I go back to work on Monday so this is an answer to prayers. Even though it isn't an "all night" sleep, 4-5 hours of uninterupted sleep is awesome!

Trace has found his fingers and fists and loves to suck his thumb. He also smiles quite a bit now and smiles in response to me and Bobby. I love it!

To the Doctor We Go...Again!

2008-11-19T19:07:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness! I should park a cot in the doctors office as much I stay in there. haha After last week's doctors visit, the doctor said I could start Trace on formula. He weighed 8.15 ozs and said he would do just fine on formula. So for the first few days I mixed formula with breastmilk.
I started Trace on straight formula on Friday. It has been great for both of us because I feel a little more free and more comfortable knowing exactly how much he is eating and he is not getting frusterated like he was. He has been eating like 2-3 oz. every 2.5-3 hours. Well, Monday night I decided I would try to give him 4 ounces. What was I thinking? After about 3 ounces, he decided he was finished but obviously I was not. I kept pushing it in his mouth until he had no choice but take the 4 ounces. Well, the last burp was a doozie. He burped, then spit up and then projectile vomitted through his mouth and nose and wasn't breathing for a second or two but seemed like 10 minutes. Quite the scare as you can imagine. I suctioned out his nose to make sure all the milk was out. About 10 minutes later he was fussy and I assumed he was probably hungry considering he just lost his WHOLE bottle. Bobby gave him an ounce and he kept it down fine. That was about 9:45 pm and then he slept and woke up fussy again at 10:45. So, of course, he was crying so I assumed he was hungry. We gave him 1.5 ozs. Took it burped, fine, went to sleep. So you know I was not putting him in his bed after he threw up earlier. So I slept with him on the couch. He woke up at 1:45 am crying so I decided I would try and offer him 2 ozs. After 1.5 ounces, out it came! Not out the nose this time, thank goodness! He ended up sleeping until 5:45 and I fed him 2 ounces and he kept it down. I was just waiting until 8:00 to come around so I could call the doctor. He also sounded a little congested so that was another reason for me to call. After speaking to the nurse, she decided it would be best for me to come in. Appointment was schedule for 2:2o yesterday. I had my postpartum check up that morning as well.
Thank goodness, my grandmother came that day to keep Trace so I could go for my postpartum check-up because she was able to go to his doctor with me. He obviously is having no problem taking the food because he is now 9.9 lbs. The doctor said his congestion was normal. He wasn't so sure though about his vomitting. He told me that it could be a few things....overeating, reflux or something I can't spell or even remember how to pronounce (polystinosis or something). He said it normally is more common in males and first borns. GREAT!! I actually had a friend of mine whose son had this a few weeks ago. They have to go in to the stomach and dialate a valve so that food can move through and get digested. So, Dr. Capp decided he would go ahead and call the hospital and schedule an ultrasound for that afternoon and if it was positive he told me they would probably admit us and the surgery would be performed either that evening or Wednesday morning. Oh my goodness, for those of you that know me very well, you know I was a basketcase. But I wasn't nearly as bad as I would have been had grandma not been with me. She kept telling me it was going to be okay and to not worry. I held it together pretty well until we got to the hospital and saw other children there. It broke my heart!
The ultrasound technician (Mrs. Personality...Not) came and got us and took us to the room to get his ultrasound. She quietly looked at stomach and was not saying much. I was having to ask her what she was looking at because at this moment I really wasn't believing the "no news is good news" thing. I thought she just didn't want to tell me something. But once she was finished she said it looked good and the radiologist would take a final read and then contact my doctor. She sent us home and said if it were positive they would have us stay so most likely everything is fine. I felt much better leaving but still a little uneasy until that confirmed. About 6:45 last night, the doctor called and told me that the results of the ultrasound were negative. So then why the vomitting? He switched his formula to Enfamil Prosobee. (which I and I think Bobby were on when we were babies).
He said he really thought I just overfed him. He said his stomach should tolerate 4-5 ounces but Trace was only taking 2-2.5 because I would feed him everytime he cried and there was no need for him to eat a lot at one feeding because he knew he would get more food in just a little while. It all makes sense now. So today, I stretched out his feedings and didn't feed him everytime he cried and he seems to be doing a little better. He has eaten 3-3.5 ounces every 3-4 hours. YAY! Oh yeah and last night he ate at 8:00 and then went to sleep. My grandmother loves to just hold him so she did and I didn't mind at all. She told me to go to bed so I could get a couple of hours of sleep. I was thinking he would wake up to eat around 11:00 or at the max 1:00. He has gone 5 hours before only a few times. So Bobby and I went to bed and I woke up to her at the bedroom door at 3:15. Oh yes, 3:15!!! Can you believe it? He went 7 hours last night and slept 5 of the 7. YAY!! I am sure it was only because he was in her arms. I don't really think if he was sleeping in his bed, he would have slept that long. That would be great though. So I fed him 3.25 ounces and then he waited 4 more hours and then ate 3.5 ounces. It has been the same schedule all day today. I am so anxious to see how long he will sleep tonight not being in her arms. Within the next few days, I am going to try the 4 ounces again but I just dread that spit up/vomit if it happens again. It is sooo scary!! But we will survive and I am looking forward to figuring all this out.
So all this to say, I guess I am overfeeding my child and now have to get him on some sort of schedule and can't feed him everytime he cries.

Last Two Weeks

2008-11-12T07:59:00.001-08:00

Well, It has been over 2 weeks and I have not updated the blog. I am so sorry! A lot has happened in the past 2 weeks so I will try and catch you up on what has been going on in the White House. With the election and everything, as you can imagine the White House has been quite crazy!

Trick-or-Treat

I decided not to dress him up this Halloween but he had 2 adorable Halloween onesies that he wore-one of which his MeMe (my mother) gave him. Because our neighborhood doesn't have many trick-or-treaters, we went over to Erin and Greg's house (Bobby's boss) to see their Sarah as a princess and John as a cow. Sarah is two and John is 11 weeks. Bobby had fun trick-or-treating with Sarah and Greg.

MeMe Came to Visit

MeMe had a conference here in Columbia and we were so happy that she came and spent the afternoon with us after her conference was over. Trace loves his MeMe. MeMe and Papa Boo are very excited about keeping Trace when Bobby and I go to the bowl game in December or January and we are so thankful that they don't mind. My mom actually put the Carolina Football team on her prayer list at church that they would do well and go to a good bowl so that Bobby and I would go and she could keep him. How funny!! Hopefully her prayers will be answered.

GO COCKS!!
Trace and I were very excited that Daddy decided to stay at home with us instead of going to the Tennessee game. We dressed up like we were at the game and had our own little tailgating party. Bobby grilled out bacon wrapped filets (again...I'm addicted) and baked potatoes and we had a blast spending time with Daddy.
For those Clemson fans reading this, Trace is not upset in this picture because he has on Gamecock gear but because I had just told him that Clemson actually beat Boston College and he was a little upset. He is definitely already a diehard Gamecock! Lake Murray Dam
Trace and I met April and Anderson (friends from Sunday School) to walk the Lake Murray Dam. The dam was recently renovated and is now pedestrian friendly and great for walking, running or riding bikes. It is beautiful but I forgot to take a picture of the lake from the actual dam. If you ever get a chance to go out there, you need to do it. It is well worth it. Anderson is 2 weeks younger than Trace and so cute with a head full of hair.

Trace's First Visit to Spartanburg
On Sunday, we went to my grandparents house to celebrate my and Bobby's birthdays. Trace met his Great Uncle Mark for the first time and enjoyed playing with MeMe, Papa Boo, Papa Hoover, Grandma, Uncle Robert and Aunt Autumn. Needless to say Trace is so spoiled. Grandma cooked our favorites....Ham, mac-n-cheese, creamed corn, fried okra, green beans, deviled eggs, potato salad, pineapple casserole and topped it off with Red Velvet Cake. YUMMY!!! Growing Boy!!
Trace is growing so fast. He was 6 weeks old on Monday. Where does the time go? He has changed so much in these past 6 weeks.
He is talking back to us when we talk to him, he lays on his gym mat and talks and kicks his feet, he's slowly finding his thumb, he holds his head up when on his stomach, he watches his mobile on his swing, he loves looking at his mommy and daddy, he follows us when we walk by, he loves laying on his changing table, he smiles at us, and that is just a few of things we are enjoying so much about him.
I took him to the doctor yesterday because I thought he was having trouble going to the bathroom. The doctor said he was normal. haha That seems to be what he tells me everytime I go. I am a complete worrier! He weighs 8 lbs. 15 oz. He is growing so fast.

Props to Publix

2008-10-30T07:22:00.000-07:00

So yesterday I decided to take Trace on his first outing to Publix Grocery Store and my first trip there since he arrived. I was a little anxious not knowing if he was going to be fussy, having to carry the big diaper bag and also being clueless on how to put the carseat on the buggy.
I called my friend Erin, who has 2 children of her own, for a little support before I made the trip. She explained to me how to put the carseat on the buggy. I had planned on carrying the diaper bag because I have been using it as my purse as well. She said I probably didn't need to take the it since I was going straight there and coming right back home. Don't ask me why but I carry my license in a little license holder and not in my wallet. So all I needed was my license, debit card, blanket for Trace, grocery list, pen and of course-Trace.
I put Trace in his carseat and we headed on. Trace was a champ! He was asleep at first and then once we were in the store he woke up but was sooo good. I took my time as I was trying to take it all in. I forgot what the grocery store looked like and was kind of overwhelmed with all the options. I wanted to buy EVERYTHING!! Of course I had a list, but got waaayyy to much.
So it came time to check-out and I get in line and the gentleman clerk was commenting on how cute Trace was and I was telling him that is was our first "outing" since his birth. He congratulated me and then was telling me about his grandchildren. The people at Publix are too kind. He and another clerk put all of my groceries on the belt. I guess I looked helpless...haha! The clerk started to scan my items and I went to get my debit card and what did I not pack??? MY DEBIT CARD!! I blurted out "OH NO!!" He said how can I help you ma'am? I was so embarrassed and told him I did not have my debit card. Usually I would have my purse which has my checkbook in it. But no, I didn't bring my purse. The only thing I had was my license. He was soo nice and told me that it would be ok and if it didn't happen this time then it was sure to happen eventually with a newborn. He said he would go ahead and ring up my groceries and put them in the cooler in the back and I could just bring my debit card back and pay for the groceries at the customer service counter. Are you serious? I can not believe I have done this. So off Trace and I went back to house groceryless to get my debit card. When I returned to pay for my groceries, I repeatedly told the clerk at the customer service desk how embarrassed I was and they were just so reasurring to tell me that this happens much more often than I think. Do you think they were just telling me that? Well, it did make me feel better. The manager then took my groceries to my car and loaded them. I was so impressed by Publix and their employees and I appreciate their hospitality in not making me feel like a complete idiot. So I give LOUD props to Publix!! They are my favorite! :)

One Month Old!!

2008-10-30T07:03:00.000-07:00

Wow! Can you believe Trace is already one month old already? We definitely can not. It seems as if only yesterday I was in the hospital waiting on his arrival.

Trace has grown a lot in the past month. He doesn't go back to the doctor until his 8 week check up which will be the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. But yesterday I got on the scale here at home and then stood on the scale with him and it was 7.5 lbs heavier. YAY!! He is growing!!!

He is starting to "coo" and "ooh" a little bit and pay more attention to our faces and all his surroundings. He has finally outgrown his premie clothes and is beginning to fill out his NB clothes. Trace's grandmother came to see him yesterday and enjoyed cuddling with him while he took one of his afternoon naps.

Date Night

2008-10-20T19:15:00.000-07:00

Tonight my parents and brother came down from Chesnee (Spartanburg) to watch Trace so Bobby and I could have a date night. I was sooo excited about this!! That is one thing that has been hard for me is not being able to spend alone time with just me and Bobby anymore. Don't get me wrong, I love Trace to death and wouldn't trade anything in the world for him but I do miss that alone time. I always here that once you have children, when you are alone with your spouse, it is hard not to talk about your children. I went into date night and laid out the ground rules for us "No talking about Trace!" Ok-so that is so much easier said than done. How in the world do people do that? I am the one that stated the rule and I am the one that couldn't follow it. Bobby did a great job! I asked Bobby what we talked about before we had Trace and we couldn't remember. I tried really hard but probably made a C+.

We had a great time even though it was a short time. We went to Outback and I had a bacon wrapped filet and it was GREAT!! Although not near as good as the one Bobby grilled us the other night. Even though I talked about Trace a little bit, it was so great just to be with Bobby for an hour and a half. We laughed, joked, and talked about adult things instead of talking in baby talk. :)

Trace had so much fun with Grandma and Papa Andrews and Uncle Robert (Bubba). My mom fed him, changed his diaper, gave him his medicine and did a great job. My dad and brother played with him, cuddled with him and just loved on him. I have a feeling like I said in an earlier blog...they are going to become "Irmo Regulars." (Which will be fine with us!) I love seeing them and I love seeing them love on my child. Trace is so loved!!

Trace having fun with Uncle Robert!

Cuddling with Papa!

Uncle Robert loving on Trace

Precious!!!

Can you tell Uncle Robert loves Trace??

Trace is exhausted after playing with Grandma, Papa and Uncle Robert!
Come back soon, I love ya'll!! -Trace

Growing Like a Weed

2008-10-16T18:42:00.001-07:00

Trace is now 16 days old and as of yesterday he weighed 6 lbs. .09 oz. Last week he had grown an inch already. Everyday he is becoming more and more alert and aware of his surroundings. He loves for me to put him on my knees and he will smile as I sing and do the hand motions with him to "The Wheels on the Bus" and "Itsy Bitsy Spider."

We are kind of worried about what he is going to want to be when he grows up. If today has any indication of his future, we might be in some kind of trouble. He doesn't like to get his clothes changed but loves lounging around in just his diaper. Lets hope he doesn't grow up wanting to lay around in his underwear. haha

Family and Friends

2008-10-16T17:57:00.000-07:00

Bobby, Trace and I are so blessed to have the most wonderful family and friends! Thanks to everyone for the phone calls, visits and dinners. The support has been so appreciated and I do not know what I would have done without all of you.

Trace has already met so many of his new family members and friends. I was so thankful that my mom was able to come and stay with me the day we came home from the hospital until the following Saturday. She really enjoyed spoiling Trace every chance she got and I really enjoyed getting to spend this time with her as well. I can't wait for her to come back. She and Dad came up one week night just to see Trace. They will be "Irmo Regulars" sooner than they thought. That 1.5 hour drive from home just got shorter.

Grandma and Papa Andrews (What they will be called has been left up to Trace)

Nana and Papa White

My grandmother also came to stay with us for a few days to help out around the house. We enjoyed her cooking and Trace enjoyed his cuddle time with his great grandmother. She will be back soon!!

Great Grandma Hayes with Trace (my grandma)

Great Grandpapa Hayes (My papa)

Great Grandpop and Grandma Flake (Bobby's Grandparents)

Trace has Arrived!!

2008-10-13T13:12:00.000-07:00

WOW!! Okay, so I know I am two weeks late, but things have been pretty crazy around the White House and of course-leave it to me-but I forgot my password to get on here and update the blog and just remembered it today! So here we are again back in action!!

On September 29th, 2008 at 8:16 pm Robert Laurence White, III (Trace) decided it was time to greet the world. My doctor admitted me to the hospital that morning around 9:00 am. My blood pressure had been high the last 3 weeks of my pregnancy and so she decided to go ahead and induce me to make sure it didn't get any worse. Trace was 1 week and 2 days early. Everyone (iucluding myself) knew I was going to give birth to a 10 lb. baby after looking at me and knowing the size of his daddy. As Trace was arriving the doctor said "Oh he is a tiny little thing." I was thinking there is no way you are talking about MY baby being small. She said oh yeah he is probably just over 5 pounds. WHAT?? 5 POUNDS?? Are you kidding me? She was right. Trace weighed 5 lbs 10.1 oz. and was 18 in. long. God has blessed us with the most amazing miracle of all.

Mysterious Ways

2008-09-27T15:31:00.000-07:00

I went to the doctor on Friday for my regular 38 week check-up and found out my blood pressure was higher than normal. The first time they took it, it was 130/90. Not "too" high but high for me. They said they wanted to check it again after I visit with the doctor. I met with the doctor and of course asked my usual 150 questions. They probably can't wait until I have Trace...haha! She heard his heartbeat and commented on what a happy boy he was in there moving all around. I hope he is as happy when he comes out as he is now. We can only pray! So anyway, I finish my appointment and then they send me back to get my blood pressure taken again to make sure it went down. Of course, I am already nervous because I know it needs to have gone down or else. The girl who took my blood pressure-took it-let it deflate-took it again-let it deflate (while looking questionable at the numbers)-took it again....so obviously my blood pressure is increasing by the second because I have no idea what is going on. She told me it was 140/100 and she needed to go get the doctor. Of course, I am beginning to freak out at this point. It was then they told me that I could not go back to work for the day and I must go home and rest for the weekend and not to mention, I have to do a 24 urine collection from Sunday morning to Monday morning before I go back to the doctor (checking for a certain type of protein).

Bobby had just been talking about how he needed a break and I have also been really tired. The Lord works in mysterious ways and knows what He is doing. Boy are we getting our rest this weekend??

Bobby has been wonderful! He went to the grocery store last night and came home and grilled steaks and made a salad for us. This morning he cooked us breakfast and then has been doing stuff around the house all day. He went to Lowes and bought mums for our front porch (what I had been planning on doing all week), bought paint and painted the trim on the front porch and then painted the front door. He decided not to go the game and stay home with me and now he is grilling out ribs and making baked potato fries. We are going to order the USC vs. UAB game tonight and enjoy our time together having our own "tailgating party."

I have all confidence in knowing that the Lord planned our weekend like this so we could enjoy possibly our last weekend as just the two of us. I will keep you posted on my doctor's visit Monday.

Not "Two" Much Longer

2008-09-24T19:19:00.000-07:00

Bobby and I have 2 weeks to go before our official due date for Trace (October 8th). I have NO CLUE whether or not he will make his entrance into this world before or after that date. Everyone at work thinks it will be before. The earliest bet was September 23rd. (They lost that one!) My boss says as long as it doesn't come before the due date or before 5:00 pm that we will be good. haha He has no clue that if Kendall is not at work with me, he will be the one driving me to hospital when my water breaks. :) That would be interesting!
I would love to know when you think Trace will arrive?!?!

Blessed

2008-09-11T19:05:00.000-07:00

Bobby and I had our last shower for "Lil Peanut" on Sunday and it truly hit us as to how blessed we are. We are so thankful for the friends that had showers for us and the friends that came and showered us with gifts.

I am not the most organized person in the world and this room is totally overwhelming to me and I have NO IDEA where to even start to organize his room.

Julie, my best friend from college, is going to come into town this weekend to help me get this straightened out so Trace will have a clean, organized room when he comes home. I am really looking forward to spending time with her while Bobby and her husband Blake cheer on the Gamecocks!! I have not been able to see her as much as I would have liked during my pregnancy. Once we are finished, I will post some pictures of his room. My mom is working on the bumper pad, crib skirt and window treatment.

Trace's Room

2008-08-24T06:51:00.000-07:00

Well, for my friends that worry if Trace will have a room, furniture to sleep in, bottles to drink from when he arrives, it looks like he finally will!! YAY!!

I am blessed to have the most wonderful parents in the world. They came up yesterday and painted Trace's room my favorite color, green. It looks soooo good. Thanks Mom and Dad! :)

9 Weeks to Go!!

2008-08-04T19:21:00.000-07:00

Well-We are officially in single digit count down until Trace arrives. His due date is October 8th. We have sooo much stuff to do to prepare for the little man.

Our good friends, ,Matt and Mary Neil came over this weekend to help Bobby move his office upstairs. We are going to move the guest bedroom into his old office and make Trace's room the back bedroom.

My parents are coming down in a couple of weekends to paint his bedroom green. I am so excited. I am also so thankful for parents willing to help out like they are. My mom is going to make Trace's bedding and window treatment. Slowly but surely, it is coming together.

As soon as it is complete, I will definitely post some pictures.