Counting Our Many Blessings

Pigtails and Playtime

2011-04-09T10:29:00.002-05:00

She Loves Purses!

2011-03-21T17:45:00.005-05:00

Aub has a new obsession with purses. It's so cute.

I promise I fix her hair. Sometimes.She just couldn't wait to try on her raincoat. Notice the tags :)

Mommy's purse is much more fun. Look at that face!

So cute!

The Zoo

2011-03-08T18:24:00.009-06:00

So in the beginning, I had typed a lengthy story detailing what we've been up to. The new house, Andrew leaving, school, life in general. One of the kiddos that I love SO much somehow deleted it. I'm too tired to re-type :)

Enjoy the pictures from today @ the Wildlife Zoo.

Look! There they are!

Kangaroos!

It's mommy!

She is getting SO big.

She loved watching the animals.

Carter and his friend, Lola.

Feeding the ducks.

Monkeys!

SNEAK PEAKS

2010-10-02T17:20:00.008-05:00

This were taken by Shannon at Bella Bean Photography!

We were able to get our family pictures taken yesterday. Our photographer offer a few sneak peaks while final editing is completed. Here are a few of our favorites.

WARNING: Please note the following while reviewing:

1. It was past bedtime.
2. It was 105 degrees. (Seriously, 105 degrees)
3. We were in a vineyard = bugs, bugs, bugs. 4. There was a wedding in the same location and Carter was WAY more interested in their party!

I'm pleased with the results so far but I'm still waiting for the *perfect* family photo.

I'm horrible at blogging...but here are a few new pics.

2010-09-07T18:01:00.007-05:00

Carter at the zoo.

Aub hot and tired at the zoo :)

Miss smiles.

Love this picture.

Picture Update

2010-05-30T20:18:00.003-05:00

As we try to get settled here in Arizona, needless to say, I haven't had much time to update the blog. Debbie these are for you!

Cardinal Game

2010-05-30T19:49:00.003-05:00

The Cardinals played in Phoenix in May - we were able to go and the kiddos did great. The Cardinals lost one of the three nights they were in town and of course, it was when we went. They'll be back in town in a few weeks and we hope it make it to another game!

Sea World

2010-04-02T21:13:00.006-05:00

We are on the road! Two days down and two to go. Today we are staying in San Antonio and were able to go to Sea World. How fun! It was so great. A few pics to enjoy...

Carter and Andrew.
My perfect little family.

Naptime!

THE Shamu!

Andrew feeding the dolphins.

We were really this close. We all were able to pet them. WOW!

Look at the phish!

The flash made him blink.

Can life get any better?

2010-03-20T21:43:00.011-05:00

Andrew getting his EOD pin from an instructor.

What a fabulous week!

Andrew graduated...wow, it's been a LONG year but we're super proud, humbled and honored to serve in this capacity. Congrats, baby!

Aubrey laughs...and smiles, goos and coos. She weighed in at 10.8 this past Wednesday!

Carter is talking non-stop...new words of the week include shirt, dirty (Aubrey's diapers), purple, yellow and Joey (kangaroo's name on Little Einstiens). Go Carter!

I love it. I continue to be amazed each day and am grateful for my incredible family...

Little Man

2010-03-17T22:21:00.002-05:00

Toby and Carter are best buddies.

Smelling the flowers. Carter calls them trees however.

Thristy during bathtime.

Cheese!

We love this little guy SO much. He is just growing in personality everyday and getting to be such a big helper. He loves Aubrey so much and is always concerned when she is upset - he says, "She sad, she sad." How cute! He loves bathtime (but what kid doesn't) and is really into coloring, Elmo and finding the moon right now. Basically, we have the coolest little guy around...but we've heard our Cousin Patrick isn't too shabby either :)

Prepare for a post all about Aubrey later!

Yes, We're Alive!

2010-03-11T20:42:00.004-06:00

Ah - with a move in three weeks, a new little one, getting back into the groove of working from home, a hubby that's super busy with school and life in general, needless to say, I don't have much time for leisure activities - which includes the blog. A few pictures to hold you over - adorable - I know!

2010-02-14T21:59:00.002-06:00

I can't express enough how grateful I am for this little one! We love you Aubrey Nicole!

Random Pictures

2010-02-14T21:44:00.003-06:00

I haven't had as much time as I would like to mess with the blog but here are a few randoms that we like :)

Blessing Day!

2010-02-14T21:40:00.005-06:00

Aubrey was blessed today! What an amazing moment this was for our family. I am grateful for Aubrey's sweet spirit and the joy she brings to our family. I can't wait to see what the future brings for her.

I am also grateful for Andrew and the priesthold that he faithfully holds - what a blessing this is for our family. We love you daddy!

2010-02-14T21:35:00.003-06:00

A few family pics from our visit home...

Four generations!
Grandma and the grandkids.
Carter, Aubs and Ella

Sibling Love

2010-02-14T21:32:00.002-06:00

Carter is doing super great with Aubrey. He is such a "big helper" and loves being a part of caring for Aubs. I'm so pleased with his reaction to her and my heart melts to see them interact. I love my kiddos!

Carter and the Lambs

2010-02-14T21:21:00.003-06:00

This was only the beginning...

Over the holidays Carter was able to go to my uncle's farm down the road and visit the newly born lambs - he wasn't impressed and actually was scared to death. He LOVES animals but I think the lambs were a bit loud for them. As newborns their Baa's are quite overpowering!

Get me outta here!

(Carter and cousin Rachel)

Aubrey Nicole Drysdale

2010-01-22T15:59:00.004-06:00

Aubrey Nicole Drysdale

January 20th, 2010

7 lbs 12 oz

19.5 inches long

Thanksgiving

2009-12-04T11:52:00.003-06:00

Four generations! Carter looks rough...He already has on PJs and it's two hours past bedtime. Oh, well...

Carter and Pappy

Hi all!

Lots going on around here between preparing to travel for the holidays, Andrew's school, church responsibilities and, not to mention, I'm starting to feel the tired-ness that comes with being 8 months preggo!

Thanksgiving was perfect. We traveled to Panama City (an hour and a half away) to visit some of Andrew's family. The company, food, relaxation and weekend with my normally MIA hubby was fantastic. Of course, it wasn't home for me, as this was my "first" holiday without seeing any of my family; however, I did quite well :)

Baby and I are doing great. She moves quite a bit more than Carter ever did. I tend to have trouble sleeping as she moves during the night but overall, all is good.

Carter is getting to be such a big boy! Not in size, as he takes after his father and I, but in personality. He is really repeating and learning new words everyday! I'm excited to see how he responds to little Miss Aubrey.

Andrew is plugging away at school. He is doing great and is finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. He is SO ready for a holiday break and is counting down the days already!

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-20T16:48:00.002-05:00

26.5 Weeks Prego!

2009-10-20T15:46:00.001-05:00

Here is the picture you've all been waiting for... I'm 26.5 weeks pregnant in this picture. All is going great with the pregnancy and little Aubrey Nicole should join the family sometime in January. I'm due Jan. 25th but have an induction schedule Jan. 18th!

Visit to Columbia!

2009-08-24T14:35:00.000-05:00

Can you see the chipmuck cheeks? HAHA.

While in Missouri we were able to go and see Andrew's mom and Rob! It was so great to spend time with them and allow them to bond with Carter boy or their "Little Bear." Thanks for everything Deb and Rob! We love you!

Trip to Missouri!

2009-08-24T14:30:00.001-05:00

I'm horrible at taking pictures while in Fredericktown but we've just returned from a two week trip there! My mom is also snapping pictures like crazy and so I never worry about it but then I never get copies and therefore, have nothing to post!

My parents bought Carter and I plane tickets to come home for a couple of weeks for my birthday. It was SO much fun and much needed :)

I did manage to get Carter and Grandpa on the new tractor!

Fun, fun!

My Birthday!

2009-08-24T14:26:00.000-05:00

My favorite two people!

Where we ate...

It's been awhile since I've posted but we've been super busy!

Here's a little of what's been going on...

My birthday was in late July and we celebrated by eating (my favorite) and walking along some of the many piers in the area.

Backyard Fun

2009-07-16T16:32:00.000-05:00

It's hot here in Florida. I'm talking like a heat index of 120 degrees, which isn't too far off from what we were accustomed to in Missouri but the humidity makes it SO much worse. Needless to say, we don't get outside much. Today; however, it is cloudy and there are chances for thunderstorms which make it a bit cooler. Carter and I enjoyed a picnic lunch and playtime on a blanket in the back yard!

Carter's First Birthday

2009-07-16T16:12:00.001-05:00

Carter turned one on June 19th and I feel horrible that I've kept all of our blog followers out there waiting for these! In between picking up Carter's ordered birthday cake and our catered meal (we were busy, right?) Andrew and I left the house without the camera. My cousin Abby took hundreds of pics of the birthday event; however, she hasn't had the time to send them my direction. Luckily, we received a few in the mail today that my aunt had taken.

Carter James - Mommy and Daddy love you SO much. You've brought more joy to our lives than we could have ever imagined. You are ALWAYS happy and that's encouraging to us. Your giggles and grins can brighten any day. We will always strive to protect you, guide you and love you forever!

Carter's Tropical Smootie

2009-07-16T16:09:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago I posted Carter enjoying his Tropical Smootie. I forgot to add the picture of his hilarious family trying to capture the moment!

The Beach

2009-07-16T15:59:00.000-05:00

A decent family pic captured at the beach!

Pirate Fun!

2009-07-16T15:52:00.001-05:00

The black ship is named the "Black Beard." It takes over FWB during the festivites.

All the locals dress up as pirates!
"Black Beard"

Carter didn't know what to think about the pirate man!

Fort Walton Beach is a fun, tourist fun about 30 minutes from here. We traveled there for their annual Pirate Festival about a month ago. To be honest, I talked Andrew into going because I thought I needed carnival food. My idea backfired...I ended up getting sick and we had to leave shortly after the pirates "took" over. Enjoy the pics!

First Haircut

2009-07-16T15:46:00.000-05:00

Carter got his first haircut a few weeks ago! He has already had another since then :) Needless to say, these aren't great pictures. There was TOO much going on to sit still and get a decent photo! By the way, it took Andrew two weeks of nagging (yes, he nags) to talk me into letting go of his curls. Yes, I admit I cried; however, it does look much better! The picture above makes his hair look alot worse than it really was on a day to day basis. Andrew felt that it needed a little messing up. I wish I had a good "after" picture...but I don't!

Aubrey and Eric!!

2009-07-16T15:40:00.000-05:00

Hi all,

Today I'm catching up on blogging! Enjoy the random posts!

At the end of May, my best friend from college, Aubrey, and her other half, Eric came to visit! They drove from KC and stayed four nights. It was SO much fun. We enjoyed good food, the beautiful beach and many late nights of conversation! Thanks for coming, Aubs! Oh, and since then Aubrey has passed her RN certification test. Woo Hoo!

Nothing New...

2009-07-08T13:03:00.001-05:00

Things have been pretty quite around here. Andrew is plugging along with school and doing really well! We are super proud of him :) We are starting to get anxious about our new assignment - aka location - and can't wait until we find out. Andrew seems to think we'll know around September.

Carter is getting big. He can say: All done, Hi, Bye-Bye, Mom, Da-Da, and Whats this? Of course, Andrew and I are the only ones that can understand half of them! He still has absolutely no interest in walking and I'm starting to fear I'll have two non-walkers at once! AH!

I have been feeling really well. Today, I am 13 wks and 3 days along. I get really tired in the evenings but the sickness has pretty much stopped completely. I am still working from home and loving it! It keeps me busy during naptimes and downtimes and helps us save and spend more than we noramlly would be able. I have started looking into Master's degrees and we've decided that I'll start "something, somewhere" as soon as we get settled at our new station.

Here are just a few pics of Carter that we've taken the last few weeks. They are not off of Andrew's "super, new and cool" camera but they are cute nonetheless.

Baby #2's First Photos!

2009-06-25T15:53:00.000-05:00

I had my first doctor's appt today! It went great. I was a little nervous about being "placed" with a military doctor and not having an alternate choice; however, my doctor, Dr. Susin, was fantastic and spent over an hour with me! Everything seems to be right on track and moving forward great! I've had some issues with nausea but it seems to be calming down a bit. As of today, I'm 10 wks and 4 days which gives me a due date of January 25th. The ultrasounds pics are a bit fuzzy but apparently the "good" machine was getting repaired. I think these turned out great though and even give "Baby #2" a girlish figure...right?

Since we were already at the hosiptal Carter had his one year shots as well. He was such a trooper! Of course, he cried and as the technician tried to "make up" with him Carter hit him BUT we successfully left without harming anyone!

Andrew's New Camera

2009-06-24T17:41:00.001-05:00

I was able to purchase Andrew this nifty new camera for Father's Day. Needless to say, he was speachless. He has ALWAYS been interested in photography but never had the time/money to explore it. Well, he still doesn't have the time BUT we're planning on getting some great family pictures over the next several years. I have a family member that has this camera and she has taken amazing pics. I'm excited for Andrew to learn the ins and outs! He hasn't had time to play with it too much but this weekend we are planning on taking some great family photos! I think I made a great investment (and believe me it was quite an investment!)

Carter's Tropical Smootie

2009-06-24T17:40:00.000-05:00

So we didn't celebrate Carter's birthday ON his birthday due to Andrew being at school but he did enjoy a Tropical Smoothie...so fun! He enjoyed it quite a bit more than he did his cake a few days later...

Our House

2009-06-24T17:29:00.000-05:00

Here are a few pics from our humble abode...

Fun in the Sun!

2009-06-06T13:38:00.001-05:00

Now that we live in Florida, the beach is close by and we make frequent trips! Here are just a few pics from the last couple of weeks!

Carter LOVES the water, HATES the sand.

Andrew's Motorcycle

2009-06-06T13:28:00.000-05:00

For the last year we've only had one vehicle. In Arkansas, Andrew's work was 3 minutes away and due to his flexible work schedule we were able to make our schedule work around having one vehicle.

We knew that when we arrived in Florida, Andrew would be gone 5 days a week from 5 AM to 8-9 PM. That news meant we needed a second form of transportation! Obviously, we had a budget and with that budget we could have purchased a really nice motorcycle or a really cruddy car.

Andrew is a pretty smooth talker and it doesn't help that he's a bit spoiled. This is what we ended up with!

Updates, updates, updates!

2009-06-06T13:25:00.000-05:00

I know it's been a century since I've last posted! We've moved, Andrew has started school, Carter is almost one...the months just fly by! I've promised myself (and Andrew) that I would update the blog TODAY. I have several different posts planned and will update around our afternoon activities!

Happy reading!

Grandpa is Here!

2009-03-21T19:49:00.000-05:00

Hi all,

Rob is in town visiting! We are so grateful he was able to come for a visit and meet Carter boy! They LOVE each other and are creating some great memories! The weekend has been quite relaxing. Friday, we went to the zoo, out to lunch and shoe shopping. Today, Saturday, Carter boy has been a little sickly but we've managed to have a great day of games, movies and BBQ. Next, apple pie! Here are a few pics from the weekend, thus far.

Carter's Photo Shoot

2009-03-17T20:22:00.000-05:00

Carter got his pictures taken today! It was so fun and I'm so glad we are able to do these types of special things! However, my little man was such a stinker! We could hardly get him to sit still. I'm telling you, the pictures we did get were hard earned! He really thought it was quite fun to move around the studio and eventually even thought we were playing a game. Regardless, we had a great time, had a great photographer and have copies for everyone!

I know, I know...

2009-03-15T20:24:00.001-05:00

Enjoy some pictures from the last month...

Grandma and Carter
Mommy and Carter

Daddy and Carter

OK...So, it's been awhile. The good news? Not much has happened!

We are doing great! Here are the latest updates:

Carter is growing like a weed. He is eating more than Andrew and I and is moving all around the house. This past week he has learned to wave Bye, Bye. I've been trying to get it on video but that's been impossible. The funniest thing lately is the fact that he loves babies. There have been several families in our Ward that have added little additions lately and Carter loves them all! He is so gentle and just wants to "pet" them :) Andrew says it's a sign...I say, it's just cute!

Andrew finally received orders! We'll be leaving Little Rock on April 11th. We'll be in Florida for 8-12 months. Andrew is very nervous about school so keep him in your prayers! Base housing is not available for EOD students so we'll have to get a rental house. We've already started looking but it will take time to find the best location. We are super excited to try a new area and make new friends! Of course, it will be further away from family but most of them have already bough plane tickets and have scheduled summer trips! Woo hoo! If anyone wants to come and visit, let us know! Most round trip tickets are very cheap!

I have been staying busy with my online teaching job. It's taken awhile to get going but so far, so great! It's nice to have some stimulating work first thing in the AM! Young Women's has also been keeping me crazy busy but I love the girls and will miss them tremendously when we leave. I also have started couponing. I'm not great yet but I think I'll pick up quickly and have already saved us quite a bit of money! I'm excited for my next trip to Walgreens! Thanks for all your help Jamie! :)

My mom's last day of chemo was last week! She is still fighting some pain from treatment burns but is so glad it's over. She now has a chance to recover for the next few months. She'll have reconstruction surgeries during late summer. My family had the chance to come and spend the weekend with us which was great!

I promise and pinky swear to post more pictures later this week.

Hello!

2009-01-24T21:48:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone! I'll update later this week but I wanted to put up a few recent pics!

Enjoy!

Yesterday, on our walk to the park.

First ride down the slide! Andrew has his headphones in because he was running cirles around the blocks around our house while Carter and I were walking. Such an over achiever!

Carter and my mom this past weekend.
Carter and Mommy. I seem to always take pictures with him on one of my lazy days when I don't get ready! Oh well :)

At last...

2009-01-06T08:42:00.000-06:00

Just hangin out...

My three boys!

Yesterday Andrew was presented with a medal at work!

Carter is actually very good and loves to set still while we read to him!

Christmas Eve...

Andrew and his super cool new truck.

Carter boy's first tractor ride.

Toby and Andrew at the dog park.

I am so happy about the power toothbrush I won in our Christmas game!
( In the background, my cousin Jake, my mother with her bit of hair, my Uncle David, and cousin Rachel with Carter)

Our first tree...

Hello to All!

My apologies to the few blog followers we have…it’s been way to long.
As the Christmas season has come and gone – our family was busy with travel, food and fun – along with way too many treats from Santa. Carter boy was spoiled beyond belief and we are actually considering donating a few of the things we bought to a local charity. We were able to spend a week with my family in Missouri and also, spend Christmas day with Andrew’s family in St. Charles. It was so great to see everyone again! As this was our first Christmas together, we were reminded greatly of the true meaning of Christmas and have felt Heavenly Father’s love for us immensely over the last year.

2009 – As the New Year rolls in we have lots of goals for our family. If anyone doesn’t know – we are both HUGE on making (and sometimes breaking) goals. This is something we’ve had in common – even back when we were dating! We have a vision board hanging in our bedroom which lists our weekly goals. We try to update it every FHE. Needless to say, we both have our list of goals for 2009. Some of ours vary greatly (for example, Andrew has getting pregnant on his). This lady isn’t quite ready!

We know we’ll work hard on our goals and because of this – whether we achieve them or not – become more focused and ultimately better people.

My mom went back to work! Yesterday my mother went back to work. It was a long day for her but I really think she enjoyed getting out of the house. It was the first time she had driven in 2 ½ months! She is feeling great and is about half way through her battle. Radiation is the next step…Jan 13th is her first appt. with her radiology doctor. Her first treatment will be scheduled shortly after that.

So Carter…so fun, so big, such a blessing. Andrew and I have this problem – we like to watch him sleep. After he goes to bed you can catch each of us “sneaking” into his bedroom to watch. It’s funny because we each “get on to” the other for doing it. Last night, I snuck in to do my watching and then came back into the living room to say, “Andrew, our son is so dang cute.” He follows with saying, “Oh, I know I was just in there.” We are a mess. He has a checkup on Thursday and we are really excited to see how much he has grown! He loves his sippy cup and will be crawling any day!

Andrew is doing great. We recently bought a new truck for him – don’t worry it wasn’t an impulse buy! We’ve been pricing and shopping for over four months. He has two classes that are starting on the 8th and is excited to get those out of the way already! We are still PATIENTLY waiting on orders. Literally, it will be any day, simply, because they are running out of time. You’ll know when we do. Andrew continues to do well at work and is receiving more recognition everyday for his achievements. We are proud of you!

I started my new job yesterday. I will be teaching online courses through, Dr. Pogue, a professor from Michigan that has an educational consulting company. So far – so good!
That’s a small update of what we’ve been up to. I know it's not much but we like it that way!

Until next time,
The Drysdales

2008-12-01T08:14:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone~

I know it has been forever since we have updated. Life has been hectic. We returned home, to Arkansas, last night after being in Missouri for the last week and a half. My mom had her surgery and is recovering as best as expected. She still has drains and is in quite a bit of pain but the recovery is slowly and surely happening. She still has two surgeries scheduled for later this spring and six weeks of radiation coming up soon. The good news? The chemo killed all of the cancer cells! Woo hoo! There is still a long way to go but we see the light at the end of the tunnel. Thank you to those of you who have kept her and our family in your thoughts and prayers.

Our family is doing great. Carter is growing like a weed and was five months on the 19th. Crazy! He is weighing in just over 17 pounds! Such a chunker. Everyday he is learning and discovering new things. Lately, he is standing on his hands and knees, rocking back and forth. It is so cute to see him trying to get on the move! Maybe by Christmas...As far as work goes, Andrew is still in "waiting" mode as far as a retraining goes. We are trying to be patient. :) Decisions should be made by Christmas and we'll be sure to keep you updated! Andrew is still plugging away at classes and is really enjoying working on getting school done! He is doing really well - making an A in his last class and currently has an A in the class that will finish up in a couple of weeks.

I have exciting news. I start a new job after the first of the year! I'll be working as a teaching assistant. There is a professor that operates a business who teaches and develops online college-level courses for universities all over the country. She works with Mizzou, Duke, University of Michigan and many, many others. I'll be assisting will grading and other misc. items of business. Eventually, the plan is for me to develop courses as well. The pay is excellent and we'll be able to start saving a little more so we are super excited about that!

That's a brief update for now. We are really excited about Christmas time and looking forward to our first Christmas together! We are happy, healthy, and truly blessed. :) These are a few snapshots my cousin took of Carter boy over the weekend. Aren't they precious?

Halloween Fun

2008-11-01T10:12:00.000-05:00

He looks more and more like Andrew everyday.

For Halloween we sat at the house and handed out candy. Which was kind of bittersweet. I loved and hated it all at the same time. First, I hated spending $15 on Dollar Store candy that would just give kiddos cavities! I know...it's a horrible attitude to have! It was super cute seeing all of the kiddos and their costumes though! Last year, we had a ton of trick or treaters. I mean a ton! This year there wasn't as big of a crowd maybe because it started sprinking around seven. Regardless, we handed out all of our candy and Carter boy got lots of compliments.

Carter was a cow. He wasn't so sure of the outfit. I think he thought it was punishment for something he did wrong. :) He didn't fuss but he wasn't quite happy either. It had mittens but those didn't last long at all. It isn't much of an outfit but we missed our ward's trunk or treat because we were out of town. So, we knew we would just be handing out candy at the house. We want to dress up as a family next year and we have some pretty great ideas after brainstorming last night...so, come back soon Halloween!

After we put Carter to bed, Andrew and I stayed up late and played games - with the TV OFF! It was really, really great to spend some quiet time with him. :) Today is going to be a lazy day. We have to get groceries later but that is all that is on our agenda. On weekends we are actually at home we try not to accomplish much :) Andrew is out washing the car now and I'm getting ready to fix lunch. I love days that are unplanned and relaxing! :)

It's Been Way To Long

2008-10-31T15:13:00.000-05:00

Watching TV. He loves to sit like this in the morning and watch the news with mommy :)

Yummy! This is really as messy as he got. It was kinda disappointing. He shoveled it in!

We rarely catch him with a smile on his face, at least for the camera. :) He is getting really interested at grabbing and staring at the camera. I did catch a grin the other day though!

See his little hand guiding mine to his mouth. The poor kid was starving!

Carter and Andrew. I love my boys!

Mommy and Carter. I know it's not the greatest of him but out of the three we took this was the best of me. I figure as much as I post pictures of myself I might as well put up a decent one and let the little man look silly :)

Little man and Rachel. She came and visited as while we were in Ftown. This is also his first flannel shirt. I'm afraid the first of several.

Carter and Miss Aubrey. I know he always has this blank stare but he is just so captivated by our camera. :)

Carter loved Kaylee! Isn't she beautiful?

Carter loves Andrew to make silly noises. He was gobbling like a turkey in this one. I think Carter was enjoying it!

Last but not least. I love my husband. I got some flowers just for the hey of it! It was so unexpected and so sweet!

Ok, ok, I know I haven't updated in forever. We have been really busy and traveling a bit so life lately has been a little crazy. I'm going to do one super long, unorganized post and hope I hit all of the highlights from the last months :) I'll post some Halloween pics tomorrow :) Carter will be sporting a cow suit for Halloween tonight.

Where to start? My mom is doing well. She is offically done with chemo. Woo hoo! November the 17th she is scheduled to have a double mascetomy and after recovery six weeks of radiation everyday. We are starting to see a light at the end of the tunnel, unfortunatly, it's still a bit far away. Please keep her in your prayers.

Andrew got all of his medical paperwork back and as we expected he is unable to fly anymore. In the next week or so we'll be making major decisions. We have tons of options and luckily Andrew is in the position where lots want to do what they can to help. We haven't been too open with family about what our possibilities are but when we make a decision and orders are actually on a piece of paper, we'll start spreading the news. We think we'll know before Thanksgiving. :) It is indeed very stressful to make such life altering decisions. Sometimes I find myself wondering, "Isn't that why we joined the Air Force, so that they could tell us what to do for the next four years?"

We were able to travel a bit these last couple of weeks. We stayed with Ryan and Cara + kids in Columbia, MO for a week and then back to Fredericktown for a few days with my family. It was so great to be back in Columbia and see friends and family. I hadn't been back since I graduated in May of 07! I was able to see two of my great friends, Aubrey and Jeanna, and introduce them to Carter boy. It was so great. :) Also, it was awesome to see Ryan and Cara. We didn't get to have too much "fun" however. The guys were building a master bedroom in the basement and in their spare time hunting. Needless to say, they were not around much :) The twins and Kayless have gotten so big though! Kaylee is super smart and is such a little lady now. Thanks again for everything Ryan and Cara!

So Carter, our little one, isn't so little anymore. :( He has an appt. next Friday so we'll see then what he weighs in at. I'm really anxious. He is getting such a personality and impresses us everyday. Sometimes in the evening we'll catch ourselves just watching him sleep. I'm know, we're crazy! Breaking news though, today he ate his first bowl of cereal. He has been waking up earlier and earlier and also, he hasn't been satisfied after feeding time for awhile now. I knew the time was coming but we held off as much as we could. He did so great and caught on after the first bite. It seemed as if he had been eating from a spoon his whole life! Which got me thinking...I think he has been in his sleep! :) The poor kid was starving I think! He kept shoveling it in and guiding my hand to his mouth for more. I loved it!

A few of his favorite activities:

1. Playing in his crib when he wakes up. He doesn't cry to let me know he is up but simply rolls over and hangs out!
2. Screaming. Not a sad screaming but just a talking screaming. I think he just discovered he could yell. The other day Andrew and I were trying to have a conversation and we actually had to leave the room so that we could heard one another.
3. His feet! He is finding his feet quicker everyday. I even found him sucking on a toe this morning!
4. Wiggling out of his PJs. On multiple occasions I've found him with his arms out of his PJs. Most of the time he sleeps in the elastic bottom dress thingys. I'm sure they have names but I don't know them. :) Anyway, most mornings his arms are out and he is wiggling around with armless sleeves!

I'm running out of time and I still have to upload pics so that's it for now. I know it wasn't too personal and detailed but at least it is an update! We love you guys and think about everyone everyday!

Ladies and Gentlemen...We have a thumb sucker!

2008-09-20T12:31:00.000-05:00

It is pretty darn cute but I still am not liking having a thumb sucker!

Happy baby after bathtime.

On Andrew's birthday we spent quite a bit of time at his favorite hunting store around us. Andrew helped Carter try out some of the camping materials. It is true...I have two children :)

Another thumb shot. If you notice Sam, the puppy, laying next to Carter. It is really funny. Carter LOVES cuddling and chewing on this puppy. He isn't interested in any of his other toys...but this puppy does it for him!

Hello Everyone. We hope this weekend finds you fantastic! It is muggy and rainy here in Arky so it is a lazy day full of college football! Normally it would bother me that Andrew watches tries to flip back and forth between three games at once...then can't concentrate on the game becauses he is too busy worrying about what game it next but a lazy Saturday is just what we need :) Lots and lots of family time.

This week flew by...nothing really significant. Andrew had a work picnic down at the lake yesterday afternoon. It was really fun to chat with some other wives and enjoy good food! The weater has been super nice here so that helped also. Oh, Andrew also had a birthday on Tuesday. He didn't have to work so that was great. We spent the day just messing around...doing some of our favorite things: cooking breakfast, window shopping, we took a walk to the lake and then put Carter to bed and enjoyed late night pizza and a movie! It really was a great day.

Carter is great. He is really getting to be so much fun. Andrew and I are in disbelief at how big he is. He has become a thumb sucker though! I am not really happy about it to say the least :) We have never given him a pass...so I guess it is a form of comfort to him. I try to take it out of his mouth when he does but Andrew won't let me if he is around! It is pretty darn cute though....He is laughing all the time and is getting some tickle spots. Andrew and I can really get him to chuckle. It really sounds as if I am describing a new toy we got...:)

We hope you have a great weekend!

A Little Bit of Everything...

2008-09-13T17:17:00.000-05:00

At the zoo...

Mommy and Carter

I hate when Andrew does this...I'm always yelling...Put him down! Carter loves it...

Everyone smile!

So early in the morning...

At the game...don't mind me, it had been raining ALL day.

Such a handsome man...

I know you can't see Carter much but it cracks me up...little man in a big tub!

My favorite...just beautiful.

Hello Everyone.

Sorry we haven't updated lately...we have been super busy. On Labor Day we went to the zoo which was so much fun! I'll spare you any animal pictures although I am tempted! We went basically just to get out of the house and it was so much fun! Then this past weekend was another visit with the family in Fredericktown. I know we go a lot...but it helps my mom get through her chemo treatments a little better I think. She is in such a better mood when we are around. A couple more and she is done...at least with chemo. She is scheduled for surgery in November and then six weeks of radiation everyday will follow that. She is hanging in there but keep her in your prayers.

Our callings at church have been keeping us super busy which is so much fun. Our ward is really small and a little different sometimes but we love it!

Andrew and I got an evening out! When we were in town this past weekend we recruited babysitters and headed to a Cardinals game! We played the Florida Marlins lost but it was still SO much fun. I love the new stadium! We got to meet up with some family before the game in St. Charles for dinner and then had a night on the town. I think I called home ten times but Carter made it without us...kinda sad :( He actually was living the life. My mom couldn't watch him by herself because she had just had a chemo treatment two days before SO I had mentioned to a few family members that they needed to come down an be assistants! Lucky for us when we walked out the door at 2:00 there was Carter + Mom + 12 extra helper family members! Don't worry...he is not spoiled. :)

Oh, also on Sunday Andrew's dad came down from St. Charles and spent the day with us. My family is a little big and a little crazy but he hung in there! It was great to see him!

Nothing else is new...Andrew is still waiting, waiting, waiting but they are keeping him busy at work in the meantime. He just finished up two more classes and did really great! He starts another in about a week. I have started writing in my downtime for an author in Little Rock. It has been really great to "use" my brain and my degree again! :)

We have a lot of video (some of my family bought us a camera for our shower) of Carter but I'm not sure how to upload it onto our computer...my goal is to figure it out tomorrow! Carter is still growing like crazy and is so much fun. He really is recognizing Andrew and I. Also, all of a sudden he is a mover! We can put him on the floor on a blanket in the living room and ten minutes later he faced the other way on the other side of the blanket! So crazy. I can't believe it's been three months and I can't believe he is so big! He does great sleeping through the night...he actually slept for ten hours the other night! He is all smiles and grins ALL the time. Enjoy the pictures!

2008-08-27T09:08:00.000-05:00

Oh so tired taking Daddy to work!

I'm rolling over!

This is Andrew's idea of babysitting...I went to the grocery store and came home to them both sound asleep and Carter chowing down!

Hello everyone!

2008-08-27T08:57:00.000-05:00

Hey guys. Not much new at the Drysdale household. We are just chugging along! Andrew is doing well at work and has been actually enjoying getting some new responsibilities. It has been stressful for the family...he worked 70 hours last week...including Sunday. YUCK. This week however has been much calmer and we love it when daddy is home more!

Carter has been doing great. He has such a fun personality and never stops grinning. He is sleeping out of mommy and daddy's room and in his big boy room. I hate it! He is still sleeping through the night and morning is his favorite time...so smiley! It almost makes me like mornings! He had his two month checkup this past Monday and weighed in at 13 lbs. 4 oz. and was 23 1/2 in. long. Such a big boy! He has started rolling over all the time and it has been so fun to see him progress in different areas. Of course, he still loves his daddy more than me but we are working on changing that! :)

We had family pictures taken last week. It was really fun. Carter did really well and we got a "few" good ones. I had HIGH expectations for our first family picture and ended up a little disappointed but I think overall we are pleased with the results. I think Carter would have done better but our photographer was a little rough around the edges and scared Carter to death. Every time she tried to make him laugh...he puckered up and cried! It was hilarious for Andrew and I.

Here are just a few pics from around the house. We love you guys and we'll post our family pics as soon as we get them back! Hope you have a great week!

Recent Pics of Carter

2008-08-12T10:04:00.000-05:00

Bathtime!

Chillin in the sink!

Toby keeping Carter company as we travel!

Great-grandma Joan

All smiles...and cheeks...and chins!

Grandma

Grandma again.

Cousins Jake and Noah. They love me!

Daddy and me!

2008-08-12T09:53:00.000-05:00

Nothing much new...as usual. :) We traveled back home this past weekend for a wedding. It was SO fun to see great friends from high school. Andrew finally got to meet a lot of them which was super fun. Carter continues to amaze us everyday. Carter went with us to the wedding but my parents came and got him before the reception. It was the first time Andrew and I have spent time together and without Carter. We missed him but we had sure missed each other as well! He is our pride and joy! My mom is hanging in there. Each chemo treatment hits her a little harder but she continues to do well. I have put up a picture on here of her (with and without a wig!)

Andrew officially found out that he is unable to fly last Thursday. We were super disappointed but at the same time we finally got an answer, so we're happy that things might be moving forward. Now, we are waiting on his doctor to write up the official letter and send it to the medical board. Supposedly this takes a couple of weeks. There might be some BIG changes in the next couple of months! Also, Andrew is taking online classes full time right now. He was able to do that since he hasn't been flying. He is doing fantastic so far. We are super proud of you! :)

Carter continues to keep me busy. I have started to scrapbook (Andrew bought me a ton of stuff for my birthday a couple of weeks ago!) It is super fun and I wish I had started a long time ago! Also, my calling at church keeps me busy. I love the girls!

We hope this update finds you all well. We love you guys and would love to hear from you! Keep us updated!

2008-08-01T12:00:00.001-05:00

Hello Everyone. Not much new in the Drysdale household. Imagine that! Life is wonderful. Andrew and I catch ourselves everyday thinking how blessed we are to be in the places we are. We LOVE being parents and are learning more and more each moment how precious Carter is. The baby is growing, growing and growing! I believe he grows out of an outfit every other day!

We have been traveling back to Missouri quite a bit lately to visit family. I had my five year class reunion last weekend. Crazy! I can't believe it has been that long. It was super fun to see friends and show off my family. One of my best friends from high school is getting married so we'll travel home for that the first weekend of August. I am still staying busy with my calling in the YW's program and have just began to scrapbook. I still am having trouble finding ANY extra time but I know that we'll get a routine down eventually!

Update on my mom: She is doing well. Each chemo treatment seems to be hitting her a bit harder but after three or four days she is back on her feet. She sure is being a trooper and hanging in there. She loves seeing Carter (of course) and I really think it takes her mind off of the fact she has cancer! I think losing her hair has been the biggest challenge to overcome for her. School starts soon and she is going to try and teach as much as she can. She wants to keep life as normal as possible. The school has hired an assistant to be in her classroom that will also be there to sub the days she isn't. This will make it super easy to miss if she needs to. Three more chemo treatments left!

Andrew is doing great. He is getting a lot accomplished at work and even getting promoted for early rank! Woo hoo! Right now he is enrolled in two online classes which can be challenging for him at times but he is doing really well at staying on top of them. He went to the flight doctor last week for another update. Basically the ENT that we have been going to for the last three months didn't do a thing he was supposed to! How frustrating! The flight doctor ordered a CT Scan and sent him to another ENT. We went to the new ENT on Wednesday and left without any position results. Another appt. on Monday with the flight doctor might be our last! We'll wait and see. We are trying to be patient but it's tough! Keep us in your prayers as we begin to make a few transitions!

Back to Carter. He is still sleeping through the night. How lucky are we? Like I said earlier he is growing out of clothes right and left! He is just the greatest and really starting to show a ton of personality. Andrew can really get him to grin and even chuckle sometimes! He is a super happy baby and sometimes goes all day without even crying! We'll be doomed if our second has a bit of temper! :) Andrew is definitely his favorite right now but I'm not concerned...we get plenty of bonding time during the day!

Wow, for nothing to say I sure updated a lot. Hope everyone is well and enjoy the weekend!

2008-07-17T19:42:00.000-05:00

Nothing new to blog about. This week has been pretty uneventful. My mom and grandmother came down on Sunday afternoon and hung out until Tuesday. It was super nice to see them. Carter loved seeing them even more...two grandmas to spoil him rotten! The baby is doing great...still growing like a weed. He is a little congested but getting better. Andrew and I are still loving every minute of having him around! Here are a few pictures we took today.

Bathtime!

2008-07-12T14:36:00.000-05:00

Just a few pictures from bathtime last night. Carter loves it! I realize he is too young to appreciate the duck but Andrew refuses to let him bathe without it. Nothing new to post. It's a lazy weekend and we're enjoying every minute of it. We went yard selling this morning...Carter was the only one that found anything useful. Tomorrow my mom and grandma are coming to stay a few nights and to visit with Carter before her next chemo treatment on Thursday. I'm super excited...maybe I can shower before noon! :) Hope everyone is having a great weekend!

2008-07-06T20:19:00.000-05:00

Just hanging out!

Mommy and Carter

Strech!

Daddy and Carter.

Our sweet baby.

You can't tell but he is already in his baseball gear!

Hello everyone. Just a few pictures for your enjoyment. Not much new to blog about. It's been a lazy weekend...which I'm grateful for! On Friday, we TRIED to go to the fireworks display on base but needless to say it was too loud for baby and dog. Luckily we had time for ice cream before we had to escape the loud display! Saturday we cleaned and grocery shopped. Fun fun. Sunday was a wonderful day of family time. We also blessed Carter at church. It was simply amazing. :) We hope everyone had a happy 4th!

Much needed update!

2008-07-04T16:39:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone! So we haven't blogged in weeks but I think we have a good excuse. By the way, to all of our blog followers that have children...Why didn't anyone tell me that after the baby comes you have absolutely NO time for anything. Well, I knew things would be different but I can't even make it to the shower before lunchtime! Bless you all that have more than one! Hopefully we get a routine down soon :)

Carter is doing fantastic. He is sleeping through the night already most of the time. If he doesn't he is up just once around four. We are definately satisfied with this progress. He had his two week check up yesterday. Carter is growing like a weed! He loves to eat and its hard to believe its been two weeks already! He was 9 lbs 1 oz and 21 inches long. We are starting to learn more and more about his personality everyday! We have plans to bless him this coming Sunday at church.

Andrew and I are also well. For those who know Andrew's story, we still have no updates. He has his next appointment with the flight doctor on the 23rd of June! Another month to just hang out and wait...we're hoping that in the next couple of months we might know more. Cross your fingers! This summer has been great so far. We have been enjoyed bar-b-queing, gardening and taking walks to the lake. Andrew has been playing softball for his squadron and having tons of fun. I really enjoy going to the games as well. He loves the competition...I guess Scrabble against me wasn't doing it for him!

Update on my mom...she switched doctors and is now seeing a specialist in St. Louis, which is a little further to travel but worth it. She had a port put in on Monday and had her first chemo treatment yesterday. She was super scared but made it through the first day. She will continue to have chemo for the next four months. We are still waiting for a couple of test results but as of now the cancer has not spread to her chest cavity or beyond. So far the only side effect has been a really bad headache but the doctors say it will take a few days for her to fully see the effects of the medication. She is hanging in there. I think that Carter gives her SO much to stay strong for. I know that when she is around him, nothing else is on her mind.

Well, that is a brief update of what is happening in the Drysdale household. I am planning on posting pictures later today! Check back.

More Carter James!

2008-06-22T13:32:00.001-05:00

Carter James Drysdale

2008-06-21T13:00:00.001-05:00

Andrew and I would like to introduce Carter James Drysdale! He was born June 19th, 2008 at 4:34 PM. Carter weighed a healthy 8lb 9oz and was 21 inches long. Mom and baby are happy and healthy and home today. We will post more updates later!

Keep us in your prayers!

2008-06-11T15:47:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone. Sorry we haven't updated in awhile...its been a crazy couple of weeks. We are so ready for this little guy to come so that maybe, just maybe, things can calm down a little bit! We are due in twelve days...so the countdown continues. We have a checkup on Friday and hope that things are progressing.

This past Saturday we found out that my mom has breast cancer. Over the next couple of weeks she will get tons of tests ran, including an MRI to determine if the cancer has spread to anywhere else in her body. She is doing well, obviously trying to cope with the reality of the situation. For those that don't know, my grandmother has fought breast cancer. This makes the situation even more real and tough because we know what to expect. The next couple of months will be filled with intense chemo and eventually breast removal later this summer. The doctors want to try to shrink the tumor first before they try to remove it. Today she went with her best friend to pick out a wig. Apparentely, she will lose all of her hair immediately after her first chemo treatment, which is in the next couple of weeks. My mom is extremely beautiful and strong, so I know she'll just do great. She has no other choice.

Garden Box

2008-06-02T19:51:00.000-05:00

Today we were able to finally plant our vegetables in our little garden box. We used mostly seeds but there are tomato, squash and cucumber plants already started. We are really excited and will be completely estatic if we get one tomato or one lettuce leaf! Thanks for your hard work Andrew! Today we also went swimming in the community pool. I'm hoping I did enough laps to get this baby out! Keep your fingers crossed...

2008-05-31T15:25:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone! Just a quick upate. Andrew and I have been quite busy this week preparing the house and such for the baby. We are trying to be prepared as possible, however, this seems to be harder and more time consuming than we imagined. Andrew is continuing to work his second job which has him gone about four evenings a week. I'm hating it! It's been nice to get on top of some bills but I miss having him around! So Friday morning I had a doctor's appointment. We got really great news! Carter seems to be sitting super low and my "cervix is thinning out quite nicely" in the words of our doctor. I am dilated too about a one or so. Our doctor seems to think that things are progressing greatly and that we may not make three more weeks...which would be fantastic!! Let's keep our fingers crossed!

Memorial Day

2008-05-28T11:06:00.001-05:00

On Memorial Day Andrew and I traveled to Hot Springs, AR for a fun filled day of sightseeing. It is a small tourist town about an hour or so from Jacksonville. I was so ready to get at of the house for once so I was super excited! Hot Springs is famous for its historic bathhouses, hot springs and is packed with tons of other history, cafes and tourist shops. The springs that still run here produce fresh water that comes out of the ground at 143 degrees! Crazy, huh? We also went to an alligator petting farm which Andrew really enjoyed. You could feed the animals but I wasn't able too because they had goats mixed in with the deer and other animals. For those of you that know I am absolutely terrified of goats, so Andrew did all the petting and feeding. We also took a Duck Ride tour of the town. These are niffy little vechiles that travel on land and water so the two hour tour was of the downtown area and Lake Hamiliton. The day was super fun but by the end of the Duck Ride my feet were so swollen that I couldn't bend my toes! Time to go home :) We are the world's worst at taking pictures but here are a few we had from the day.

Pictures from Hot Springs!

2008-05-28T11:05:00.001-05:00

Open to the Public!

2008-05-24T15:42:00.000-05:00

Well, I started our blog last weekend and am now going to take a few minutes to update and add some more pictures and send the email inviting all of our friends and family to see our page! Andrew has started to get a little nervous about the baby coming and bringing more expenses, so he has gotten a second evening job. I hate him not being here but then again I have gotten tons of stuff done (this blog for example!) We both turn into couch potatoes when we are at home together!

Eventually when the baby comes I'm sure we'll have more exciting posts but this will have to do for now. Andrew built me a very small garden box this morning! I am super excited to get things planted. For those of you who know her my mom has a green thumb, so we'll see if I have inherited that trait or not! We were going to try to get things planted today but after a long trip to Lowe's in the 100 degree weather and then witnessing the building, I was too tired and decided to nap instead :)

Here are some recent photos. Andrew and I went to visit family back in Fredericktown, MO the first weekend of May, which was the Azalea Weekend. There are rides, food, a big parade and lots of other fun things to do. One of them is a Super Farmer Contest they have every year in rememberance of my grandfather. There are always representatives from my family that participate. It is basically a relay race that tests your farming skills! Since I am quite large at the moment and couldn't partner with Andrew, my cousin Abby did. They didn't place but had lots of fun! That same weekend Andrew also killed a turkey hunting on my parents land. There are also pictures Andrew wanted me to post of his hunting trip with his brother Ryan and his dad.

Until next time!

Andrew and Ryan fishing.

Andrew and his dad.

Andrew and his turkey!!

Andrew and Abby building fence in the Super Farmer!

Super Farmer.

Getting ready for the competition!

Old and New

2008-05-18T20:29:00.000-05:00

We are bloggers now!

2008-05-18T19:23:00.000-05:00

We finally have become bloggers! We are offically the last of Andrew's family to join in on the world of blogging but we have lots of exciting things happening within our little family so we are grateful for this opportunity to be able to share our happenings with our friends and family. Where to start? Andrew and I were married February 16th, 2007 in San Antonio, Texas shortly after Andrew joined the United States Air Force. We currently are stationed in Little Rock, Arkansas. We love it here mostly because it is really close to friends and family still in Missouri. We travel back frequently to visit...probably WAY to much.

Andrew just returned home from Iraq about two months ago and is currently in a transition stage. He was sent home early from the desert because he is unable to clear his ears while flying, which is a requirement. Right now, he are seeing ENT doctors in Little Rock and trying different types of medications to solve the problem. In the next couple of months we should know a little more about what is the come...cross training, moving, school...It is a stressful situation but we continue to take it day by day.

I am loving the idea of becoming a stay at home mom and have been practicing for the last few months! After graduating from the University of Missouri shortly after we married I have dabbled in a few things but have mainly taken advantage of the free time! Within a few years I plan to go back to school to get my Master's degree but until that time I continue to stay busy with my calling at church and with misc. projects at home!

We are expecting our first little one in the next month or so. His due date is June 23rd. We are so happy, excited and a little nervous at the same time for his arrival. We are counting down the days...he can't come soon enough!

Counting Our Many Blessings

Pigtails and Playtime

She Loves Purses!

The Zoo

** SNEAK PEAKS **

I'm horrible at blogging...but here are a few new pics.

Picture Update

Cardinal Game

Sea World

Can life get any better?

Little Man

Yes, We're Alive!

Random Pictures

Blessing Day!

Sibling Love

Carter and the Lambs

Aubrey Nicole Drysdale

Thanksgiving

Pumpkin Patch

26.5 Weeks Prego!

Visit to Columbia!

Trip to Missouri!

My Birthday!

Backyard Fun

Carter's First Birthday

Carter's Tropical Smootie

The Beach

Pirate Fun!

First Haircut

Aubrey and Eric!!

Nothing New...

Baby #2's First Photos!

Andrew's New Camera

Carter's Tropical Smootie

Our House

Fun in the Sun!

Andrew's Motorcycle

Updates, updates, updates!

Grandpa is Here!

Carter's Photo Shoot

I know, I know...

Hello!

At last...

Halloween Fun

It's Been Way To Long

Ladies and Gentlemen...We have a thumb sucker!

A Little Bit of Everything...

Hello everyone!

Recent Pics of Carter

Bathtime!

Much needed update!

More Carter James!

Carter James Drysdale

Keep us in your prayers!

Garden Box

Memorial Day

Pictures from Hot Springs!

Open to the Public!

Old and New

We are bloggers now!

SNEAK PEAKS