Consistently Inconsistent

{Family, Maternity} | Youngsville, LA Photographer

2011-07-01T13:38:00.000-07:00

{Payton 9 months} |Youngsville LA Photographer

2011-06-04T06:48:00.001-07:00

Of course my own little girl is my favorite person to capture!! She makes my heart smile! She is 11 months but I am just now posting her 9 months...another "perk" of being the photographers daughter-mom having a camera in your face all day everyday and then sometimes forgotten in the mix! :)

Collin {1 year} | Youngsville, LA Photographer

2011-05-18T08:52:00.000-07:00

Mason {Newborn} | Youngsville LA Photographer

2011-05-06T09:34:00.000-07:00

Aubrey {18 months} | Youngsville LA Photographer

2011-04-24T18:38:00.000-07:00

{Family} | Youngsville, LA Photographer

2011-04-12T16:10:00.001-07:00

Choate Family {Family} | Youngsville, LA Photographer

2011-04-02T15:10:00.001-07:00

Murphy Family {Family} | Youngsville, LA Photographer

2011-03-26T12:06:00.000-07:00

David and Jody {Family} | Youngsville, LA Photographer

2011-03-22T14:45:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun with this sweet couple! To see such love after so many years is truly inspirational. It was so cute the significance of the swing, they met when Mr. David was pushing Mrs. Jody on a similar swing at a lake one summer. They knew from the moment they met, that they were soul mates!!!

Avery {4 years} | Youngsville, La Photographer

2011-03-06T13:18:00.001-08:00

Cohen {4 year} | Youngsville, LA Photographer

2011-02-24T20:10:00.000-08:00

What a cute little guy!! He belongs in a Gap commercial or ad!!!!!

Heidi, Grace, Lilly {Valentine} | Youngsville LA Photographer

2011-02-20T18:50:00.001-08:00

These 3 special ladies had a great idea for a Valentine's surprise for 1 special guy in their lives!!!! Thank you for letting me be apart of it! Too cute!!!

Arlei {2 year} | Youngsville, LA Photographer

2011-02-10T16:33:00.000-08:00

{Portraits} | Youngsville, LA Photographer

2011-02-05T18:56:00.000-08:00

Payton {6 months} | Youngsville, LA Photographer

2011-02-02T18:09:00.000-08:00

I cant believe my baby is not a baby anymore!!!! Payton is 6 months and is happy as ever!!! She just learned to sit up by herself, and thinks she is pretty cool doing so! She laughs and smiles all day long! She is growing so fast and I just know she will be crawling any day now.

We are so blessed to have such a beautiful, healthy, lovable little girl!!!

Dansby {6 months} | Youngsville, LA Photographer

2011-01-28T15:10:00.000-08:00

My beautiful friend Becca and her precious daughter Dansby!

2011-01-15T19:00:00.000-08:00

Charmayne {Maternity} | Youngsville, LA Photographer

What a beautiful maternity shoot a few weeks ago!! Pretty little Mama!!!

It's Been A While...

2011-01-07T18:10:00.001-08:00

Brooke {Senior} | Youngsville, LA Photographer

What an easy shoot when your subject is so pretty!!! :)

This girl is GORGEOUS!!!!

Sorry it has been so long since my last post! Now being a mom, I seem to have lost a bit of time! Since talking last, I have started my own photography business!! Ryane Elizabeth Photography has been in the making for about 7 years, but has finally become a reality!!

I will be sharing my shoots on my blog, my facebook page, Ryane Elizabeth Photography, and my website http://ryaneelizabethphotography.com

I am so excited that you have decided to join me for this journey! If you like what you see, please spread the word!!!

Hope you enjoy!

Sky Diving and 3 Months!!!

2010-10-25T18:44:00.000-07:00

Lots has been going on lately...I went SKY DIVING!!!! It was amazing! That will take an entire post itself, I still have to get my hands on the pictures that were taken as well as receive the video in the mail!!! I could go on for hours about that experience, so I will save it for another day!

I have also been very busy with photo shoots! Yay! I am excited to have booked several shoots, some even being people I do not know very well, friends of friends sort of thing!! But of course my favorite model turned 3 months the other day so I took her pictures as well! Here is a sneak peek at a few I have tweaked!! I will post many more once the family has received and seen them first!!

Oh My.....What a WONDERFUL day!!!!

2010-10-11T19:31:00.000-07:00

Payton and I did a walk in our neighborhood Saturday morning for Infant and Pregnancy loss. It was beautiful and AMAZING!!!! So very emotional. I am so very glad to have met the people I met and am so glad they shared their stories with me. I will post more on the stories later. This day was such a celebration for Payton and I, baby girl has no idea, but will as she grows older, about the little cousin she will not meet until we all go to Heaven. I was hoping to capture the day to one day share with her.

Tara, the lady shown below, organized the entire day. My hats off to you Tara, you are wonderful! What a gift from God! The fun jump, tents of awesome activities, down to the logo on the shirts were all Tara in celebration of her 2 miscarriages and daughter Rebbecca born still at 6 months. We did not have anything like this in Lafayette, much less Youngsville, but Tara made it all possible!!! For her first year, she did absolutely amazing!!!! I would guess more than 200 people!!! All affected in some way from infant or pregnancy loss.

Below are some pictures from the day.

The main event, Balloon release in remembrance of those we have lost.

Payton waited and waited but had to take a nap before the walk even began.

I can't imagine the pain this woman is remembering. I thank God for this event for her, hopefully it helped in some way.

This little guy was releasing balloons in memory of his lost siblings. My heart ached for his sad little face :(

After the release I captured some moments that broke my heart. As the song " You Raise Me Up" played as all of our balloons were released.

Tara, on the left, was releasing balloons for her 2 miscarriages and 1 stillborn child, Rebbecca. Again, Thank you Tara, thank you for making an environment where no one felt weird for talking about or crying about their losses...we all shared the same pain.

Oh Samuel, how I wish I knew you. I am excited to meet you one day in Heaven. Save a place for us here who are missing you.

Thank you Ranch Outlet for sponsoring the Balloon release.

The start line. 1 lap for those we have lost, and 1 lap for those who need the encouragement to keep going....I love you Sara!!!!

Absolutely amazing how many people came!!!!!

This sweet family, seen from afar, I pray for you...

I am so thankful for Tara. I have been reading her blog and had emailed her before the race. She is an amazingly strong women, what an example of Faith!!! I am so thankful we met at the race, thank you for embracing me while I unexpectedly cried in your arms. Thank you for acknowledging Samuel on your remembrance wall, thank you for the kind words you wish for my cousin and dear friend, Sara, from one mom to another, you are awesome and I appreciate everything on Saturday you did to remember our loved ones.

So PROUD!!!!

2010-08-28T16:34:00.000-07:00

I am so proud of these pictures!! I was so thankful that my sister-in-law let me take my nieces 1 year pictures!! I had a blast! I was able to use my new program to edit them, I never had so much fun!! Aubrey is beautiful!! She made it easy to take the pictures because she actually smiled and at some points acted like a little model!!! It was so cute! Nice change of pace from taking Payton's pictures, she just lays there and most of the time crys, making it difficult to capture any good ones :)

Hope you all enjoy!!!!

Best Friends!!

1 good one of P!!

A little frightened!!

Ok, now are you ready to see the cutest almost 1 year old?!?!?!

Precious!

So patient with us messing with her and making her do things all day!

Pretty eyes

Big girl!!!

Awww she loves her mama and daddy!!

My absolute favorite!!!!!

Sweet Baby Girl!!

2010-08-27T16:21:00.000-07:00

This was the picture I used for her announcements that I am just getting to send out!! She did great at her first photo shoot!! I love taking pictures and really enjoyed taking them of my precious daughter!!

Where was this overwhelming feeling of love before I met her?!?! I cannot express how much I love this little girl. For such a small little thing, she has changed my life in such a big way. I look at so many things in such a new light, God, life, family and love. I am so blessed that God chose ME to be her mom...wow, I am so lucky!!! I cannot wait to tell her just that as she grows. My prayer is that she may always feel loved and know what a blessing to my life she is!

Introducing Payton Lane!!!!!

2010-07-20T11:30:00.000-07:00

6 lbs and 5 oz, 19 3/8 in

Pretty Girl!!! Born 7/9/10

Proud Papa!!!

Proud Daddy!!

Proud Mommy!!

The best doctor EVER!!! Dr. Taylor

Welcome Home Sweet P!!!

Belly mold!!

2010-07-06T17:30:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I officially hate how you have to load pictures to make sure they are in order!!! Oh well, this is the finished product!! It took me a while to decide how to paint it, but since Payton's room has cherry blossom tree branches on the wall, I decided to paint that on the mold that will eventually hang in her room.

Thanks to my friend Brandi who came over to help me with the mold, we were able to capture my belly at 36 weeks and 5 days! She had done hers and her sisters so I was not dealing with an amateur!! We had fun! and many laughs were shared!!!

Bedding and Belly Molds!!

2010-06-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

FINALLY!!! Finished with my task of making Payton's bedding!! I had someone ask me when I was going to post pictures of the bedding I was making, I laughed inside because they like me in the beginning thought I could whip that up no big deal...ummm quiet a task my friends! Especially when you taught yourself how to sew and the only thing you have sewn is curtains! Ha well between working full time and exhaustion from pregnancy, I was starting to doubt my enthusiasm for this project. It took a while to find just the right fabrics to put together and lots of studying online to figure out just how to sew baby bedding. I am so proud of her bed skirt, it is my favorite fabric, it has a vintage look and is so pretty! Thanks to Brandi who explained the trick of bunching, I was able to start with the skirt!!

The crib skirt-I wish you could see the print of this fabric, its so pretty!

The comforter. Thanks to Ms. Jody who was very patient with me, she explained to me how to make my first blanket! I wouldn't even let her pin the fabrics, batting or backing! I made it clear I wanted to learn and do this on my own!! She would just laugh and tell me what to do and answer any questions I had during the process.

The bumpers. This is the second set of bumpers I made! Haha I figured I knew how to put these together with only light reading online....ummm after the second set was complete, there was Ms. Jody teaching me the slip stitch move to close the ends, well that is after we figured out a much better way to make them look!

Finished product!

Yes, I will be purchasing my next child's bedding!!! Haha

I learned so much during this process and I am very proud of the outcome, it was just very typical of me to think I can do something and then it end up so much bigger of a project than I thought. Thanks to my understanding husband who always supports my efforts and letting me transform our dinning room into a sweat shop for my sewing!!!

I will be posting the rest of her room soon, that whole room was a project of my own therefore still a work in progress!! haha

Fresh new patio!!

2010-06-28T07:59:00.000-07:00

We finally finished our side patio! You would think since such a small area it would not have taken us this long to do it! I have to say, one of my most favorite things about Louisiana is the friendliness here. Our wonderful neighbors behind us are like the neighborhood parents of the year! Mr. David has helped me so much when Blake is out of town and I need a ladder, hang something, and even decorate my door-he and wife Ms. Jody are always there to help and usually just offer without me asking. They also have the yard of the neighborhood and love plants, so i asked Ms. Jody if she would come with me to help me pick plants that would go together and I have to admit, I asked her to choose ones that didn't take much maintenance! She was happy to do it and kept me $80 less than the budget Blake gave me!! Blake said he could have kissed her when I told him how much we spent, well saved by bringing her!!! It turned out beautiful! I think we have eaten dinner our there every other night since we finished!

38 Weeks!!

2010-06-27T07:45:00.000-07:00

Yikes!! I never realized how big I had gotten until I looked back at my first picture from 8 weeks pregnant!! WOW! Next time my doctor fusses about weight gain, I think Ill show her the pictures! We went to the doctor this week and not much progression. Still at 1 cm but now at 60% effacement, contractions have slowed but still come every now and again, last week was my first week of no more working, I gained back 1 of my 2 lost pounds, Dr scheduled an ultrasound for next week-we need to measure little girl to make sure she isn't too little. There are the highlights!! I am trying to focus on protein this week, little P needs to become big P so we don't have to stay in the hospital more than the usual 2 days. As much as I want to meet her and am totally over pregnancy (not really how I mean it, those who are pregnant and or remember what these last weeks are like, know what I mean!!) I would hate for her to come early and miss out on a bit of weight gain.

Funny thing from this week.... Payton has been jazzing it up in my belly lately!! They say closer to the end they slow their movement, but P has been moving more than ever! One evening we just starred at my belly as it moved! After several minutes I asked out loud "What is she doing in there?!?!" Blake promptly responded with, "She's packing her bags!!!" We just laughed and I literally pictured our little girl getting her stuff together to come out and meet us!!!

Materity pics!!!

2010-06-11T07:19:00.001-07:00

Ok, little disclaimer...I did not want the typical shear piece of cloth that the wind blows across your boobs and belly while you are naked...umm not my cup of tea!!! So I had a photographer just come take a few shots of me fully clothed and of course, outside!! I am 34 weeks in the pics. Be careful not to let my belly button poke your eye out!!!

Go to www.nvacheephotography.com

Click on the bottom right "client proofing" (if you also scroll over the index Expecting Moments, that is one of my pics, now featured on her website)

the password is broussardbump

Enjoy little Payton in my belly!!

Our little Get Away!!!!!

2010-06-08T06:36:00.000-07:00

This is our hotel/resort...Hotel Galvez! It was built in 1911!! It was actually shocking to see something so beautiful in Galveston! Haha

I have ALWAYS wanted to rent one of these bikes!!! Blake and I made it 20 minutes out of the paid for hour rental! It was hard!!! I'm going to blame it on that we had just come from dinner when we decided to rent this not-so-awesome bike!!!

Ah yes, the sea gulls!!! We ate every meal outside on some sort of balcony and the sea gulls and pigeons are ridiculous!! Can you believe some people are dumb enough to actually feed them and attract them!! Or some people, like my husband, like to make the gesture of throwing something into the air so that they come near your 35 week pregnant wife and make her look crazy as she swats at them, ducks away, and runs down the seawall!!!!

This is an old family owned shop with a gorgeous porch over the water. We watched the sunset our first night there. We met some women on a business trip who were so fun and hung out with them for the evening. They even bought Blake a beer and me a water!!

This is the Flagship hotel. The only hotel on the water. I stayed there when i was young with my family when we came to the beach. It was ruined by hurricane Ike, and is now in legal fights with the government so it just remains abandoned and ugly :(

My favorite plane in the Lonestar Flight Museum!! The hurricane had flooded and ruined a lot of the old planes, but the museum open just one of the two large hangars and had about 15 planes available to look at and read about.

We had decided we needed one more weekend just the 2 of us before we become a family of 3! Due my sickness everyday, we knew we were limited to where we could fly to. i get sick every afternoon, plus now a bit of air sickness since being pregnant too. So that left us with choices of flight time around an hour. Galveston Texas here we come! Haha It actually looks a bit cleaner since the hurricane! We stayed in a beautiful place, Hotel Galvez! They has a spa, which I was able to enjoy their services one afternoon by receiving a pregnancy massage! The pool was gorgeous! We were able to catch some good sun!! We met lots of people who were so nice and lots of blessings and luck wished on us over the next month by all of them!! You know Blake and I, we can make friends with the wall in the elevator!!! We both really wanted to go to the Flight Museum they have there. We enjoyed it and were able to get Payton some airplane books!! Plus a little pink airplane backpack!! For a weekend that was meant for the 2 of us...we sure didn't talk too much about anything other than Sweet Payton!!!

What made this trip even better was that Blake had just flown back from Palm Beach where we purchased a new plane!!! We sold ours a couple of months ago and Blake has been searching for just the right one!! Well we found it! It flys great, looks amazing and flew us safely to our last get away as 2!!! Ill be posting pics of our new ride soon!!!

35 weeks!!!

2010-06-05T09:07:00.000-07:00

WOW!! That is one BIG belly!!! If you look close you can see that belly button sticking out, actually it probably poked you in the eye when you brought my blog up!!! As for that thing, I hope it goes back to being an innie!!!

I began my internal visits this week and will continue every week until the big day!!! I hate to be excited about these visits but they do mean that its getting close! To spare the creepy female words, lets just say that my body is already preparing for birth, and I should begin to dilate this week!!! My doctor thinks that Payton will be early...YAY!!! She also is certain that it will be a quick delivery, which always sets my nerves at ease. She also is so very supportive of my choice for a drug-free birth. She always assures me that if she didn't think I could do it she would not say anything at all, and proceeds to say that I will do great! Haha Who knows she may say that to everyone, but these days hearing from people that they think i can do it, gives me a sense of support! Lets see, we don't cover that much at these visits, I had just seen her 2 weeks prior! I cant imagine what we will talk about each week! I did not gain any weight in the past 2 weeks, blood pressure is still great, and Payton's heart rate is low as usual at 140! She is scaring me, making me think she will make her appearance as a boy! Ha

We started our Prepared Child birthing classes this week, it is a form of Lamaze and is once a week for 3 weeks. Blake was out of town, of course, so Christy, my friend and neighbor went with me. It was actually extremely informative. I feel like when it comes to the big day, there is no way i will remember everything they told me! I am so grateful for the friendship I have with Christy, she is so supportive and "shows up" for me when needed the most! We had a fun time in the class, she took a ton of notes...I'm serious, she is so organised and wanted to make sure she remembers what to do when in the birthing room and wanted to remember everything to fill Blake in when he is back in town. I believe she will be joining me this week as well, Blake will be in Houston. Should be another interesting class!!

Will keep everyone posted on my progress!!

Payton's Baby Showers

2010-05-22T08:54:00.000-07:00

HOUSTON BABY SHOWER

Crystal feeling Payton and probably my outtie belly button! Gross!!!!

Me and Brandi, she drove in with me to Houston for my shower!

My mom, godmother Bev and sister Sarah

Friends Ms. Rupp and Katie

Everyone getting ready to stare at me as I open all the gifts...I was very nervous!

Me posing for a pic for my dad to show at work

LOUISIANA BABY SHOWER

My Favorite gift!!!! Thanks to my mother-in-law I got my JOGGING STROLLER!!!! WOOHOO!!

Me and Christy

My Mom, sisters, and aunt drove in for a few hours for the shower in Louisiana.

This is only 4 of the 7 hampers I received!!! I guess my registry goofed somehow!

My cake...the colors of Payton's room

Me and Brandi

I have to warn you now...yes, I am wearing the same dress and hair-do at both my Houston and Louisiana baby showers! Cute dresses are hard to come by these days!!! My Houston shower was the last weekend of April. It was wonderful! My little sister was in charge of pictures I believe....I think we have 5 total! My Louisiana shower was the following weekend, I had 2 people on camera duty so that is why there are many more moments from that one.
Enjoy!

Introducing Sweet Payton...still in the womb!!!

2010-05-17T14:14:00.000-07:00

Those look like running feet to me! :) I want to kiss those little toes!!

Payton Lane

So peaceful...

Although looking "clownish" I thought it was cute that she yawned and her nose was pressed against my belly!!

She was so sleepy and the tech kept pushing on my belly...poor little girl!!!

I like this one...she is blowing a kiss it looks like!!!

God's Handiwork

I wasn't sure what to expect, all I knew is that I was very excited to see Payton but also strangely very nervous. Sneak Peek, the 4D ultrasound place, has what is called a theater room, I was told I could have as many people as Blake and I wanted. First, we wanted to make sure grandparents and godparents had first priority. My family wasn't able to come, so we opened the invitation to Blake's entire family. I did not expect to be this emotional but when Blake's ENTIRE family showed up on Friday, I was completely overwhelmed by their support to the both of us. Ms. Toni, Mr. Bubba, Chip, Leslie, Aubrey, Barrett, Natalie, and Sydney-you have no idea what that meant to me to take an hour from your busy day for our little girl!! My brother Jay was in town from off-shore and took off so that he could be a part of this special day, and my dear friend, Christy came for me as well. We had a packed house in that little room!!

I'm not sure how I thought this would all go down, but the door opened and there was a pedestal looking bed front and center of the room surrounded by chairs and couches!! The tech looked at me and said "well hop on when you are ready!!" Ummmm....what?!?!!?! I imagined being in a separate room with Blake and then it shown on a screen to everyone in another room!! WOW! So I had to bare the belly to EVERYONE! Blake mentioned later that he just knew how embarrassed I must have felt. He knows how I struggle with being very private and personal, especially lately.

After the tech began the ultrasound, my nerves calmed-we all were focused on the screens around the room with my precious daughter's face on it!! I'm not going to lie, some of the pics and angles were pretty creepy, but all in all I was in complete awe of her. She slept the entire time, didn't make too many movements, and seemed camera shy at first! Her hands and arms were in front of her face at the beginning, but after the tech prodded my belly she settled them along side of her face to continue her nap!! The nerves in me only settled after counting to 5 every time a limb was shown. I was terrified about seeing if the cord was around her neck. Of course it was not, but I was scared of seeing anything out of the ordinary. Everything was perfect though! I love her even more being able to put a little face to her name. We all discovered she has Blake's round face, his nose (thank God, my family understands this!!), my full lips and my chin! So sweet!

We had such a fun day, making jokes, sharing laughs, pointing out who's what in Payton!! I cant wait to share with her the story of when I truly first laid eyes on her!!

Update....FINALLY!!

2010-05-16T18:08:00.001-07:00

So I am finally back to posting!! This is a picture from when I turned 31 weeks!! I am growing fast and furious now, seeing numbers I have NEVER seen on the scale ever!!! We are seeing the doctor every 2 weeks still and all seems to be well. She is the only person who seems to be excited about my weight gain!!! I am super tired these days, luckily Dr. Taylor has cut me down to working only 3 days a week now. Being on my feet all day, everyday, she thinks may be causing the sharp pain from the cyst on my ovary found a couple of months ago.

Blake and I have gone to the first of many classes signed up for at the hospital, Labor and Delivery. Wow- that is really all I have to say about that class!! Lets just say I wanted to faint and my face was red and hot the entire time!!! Several videos were shown that I would prefer not to recall...EVER!!! Payton also had both of her showers since last post, one in Houston and one here in Louisiana. I will post separately on the showers with pics and details. We also did the 4D ultrasound this past Friday!!! I will be posting sweet baby girl's first pictures very very soon!!!

Prayers Please!!

2010-04-17T16:18:00.000-07:00

A girl that I work with, Amy, just had a C-section to deliver her baby. We are 2 days apart in pregnancy, so that puts her at 28 1/2 weeks. This little baby boy weighs only 2lbs and 2 oz. I cant even imagine what they are going through. She had been on bed rest the past 4 weeks, and the last week in the hospital for blood pressure issues. Please pray for quick recovery for Amy, quick development for baby, and peace of mind to handle it all for husband and new daddy, Chris.

27 weeks and counting....

2010-04-10T06:08:00.000-07:00

Here we are just a few weeks from the 30's!! According to one book I am in my 3rd trimester, another says not until week 28-so who knows! All I know is that I am getting close to meeting my sweet little girl!

Lets see, here is what I've learned or felt over the last 4 weeks in between posting:

Little girl had the hiccups, I felt them for the first time a few days ago

She kicks hard when it is around the time I should be eating

She does not like it when I lay on my back

She kicks away until I tell her dad to come feel and then lays silent until he removes his hand

She lays with her hands by her face (ultrasounds show her laying so sweet)

She often rolls to my right creating a weird looking outer belly

I want to meet this little girl so bad!! Lots of things to look forward to:

Maternity pictures, belly mold, 4d ultrasound, and now check ups every 2 weeks!

Time is flying!!!

Valentines Day!

2010-03-19T19:23:00.000-07:00

So late at posting this, but had to share!

This yummy treat was sent to me on Valentines Day!! My wonderful husband, who knows me well, I'm not a flowers kind of girl but I love chocolate strawberries!!! Blake had these sent the Saturday before Valentine's day, it came at a perfect time. I was sick on the couch and a knock at the door...with a present for me!!! After eating several, i decided i needed to take a picture of these beautiful and yummy creations!!

Thank you Blake...better late than never!!

Sweet Mae!

2010-03-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

I am so late in posting about our Mardi Gras! Most schools are out the whole week but Blake and I only had Fat Tuesday off. The weekend before was our town's parade, the Youngsville Parade! Some of our neighbors got together on the corner of the street, right at the parade route, and had a BBQ and fun jump! We had so much fun! Even though I was sick the entire time, I had company with sweet Mae who wanted to sit on Ms. Ryane's lap during the whole parade!

Blake and I always say that we would love for little Payton to be like Mae! We just love her little personality!

Happy Birthday Jojo!!!

2010-03-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my sweet godson!! He is 5 years old...WOW, he is so big now! I am so glad God has blessed me with such a wonderful opportunity to be his godmother. I hope Payton has so many qualities that this little man has, I would be so lucky!

23 weeks!!!

2010-03-14T07:10:00.000-07:00

WOW!! 6 months already!! Yay!! We went to our 6 month check up last week, she sounded strong with a heartbeat of 155! We also had the anatomy ultrasound which revealed no signs of Spina Bifida, clef lip, or Downs Syndrome. I was also able to count all 10 fingers and toes! Her little face had a little fat on it finally, so she didn't just look like a skeleton! I seriously could see Blake's face structure in hers :) And thank God, it looks like she has his nose!! Ha (a joke only my family will catch!) She measures exactly 16 ounces and if you were to stretch her out she would measure 11 inches from head to toe-tall like her mommy!!!

I'm doing a bit better too, having more "feel good" days rather than "feel crappy" days! Just trying to wrap my head around the whole labor and delivery idea! I am not as nervous about pain as am about the length of time I will be in pain. The average first birth is 18 hours...YIKES!! Although my Dr. anticipates a much shorter labor, I need to prepare myself for what is ahead.

Everything looking and sounding great so far!!! I will try to scan my ultrasound to post Payton's sweet face :)

Hello!

2010-03-06T08:28:00.000-08:00

I know that I have disappeared over the last couple of weeks, I'm still here!! The sickness is better, throwing up on average of every other day and at random, so this is good news to someone who was throwing up all day everyday for what seemed like a long while!! The attack of the migraine headaches has come now. My doctor had warned me of two things regarding pregnancy and headaches-one, people who have migraines before pregnancy can either get them worse and more often OR not get them at all!!! Having migraines since about 3rd grade, I would say I am used to them, WOW, not like this!!! YIKES!! I have had one bad headache for about 4 days now. Some of those days it came out even worse. I now get a headache about every 2 days and can last sometimes through the next episode :( This world of pregnancy has not been kind to me, in fact I have said twice so far to Blake, that I am unsure if I can do this again. Those were during really bad times though, so hopefully my love for children and desire to have many over powers my selfishness to be well.

I go to the doctors next week for my 6 month check up!! Time really is flying!!! I will post my belly!! Yes, I said belly, I finally have one!!!

I am on vacation this week and will be doing Payton's room, cant wait to post pictures!! I am a bit slow on sewing her bedding so that will most likely be posted at a later date!! Ha

Hope everyone is well!! I will post next week!!

Who Dat!!!!

2010-02-13T05:48:00.000-08:00

Who Dat Who Dat Who Dat Say They Gunna Beat Dem Saints!!!!!

WOOOHOOOO!!!!!

Our boys won the Superbowl!!

Sorry I am just getting around to posting about the Superbowl, Baby bumps and Baby Avery are still more important to me than football!! :)

I just have to say, along with all the women of the world, Drew Brees is the MAN!! He mentioned 3 things in his speech while holding the trophy many covet-God, his son, and wife...WHAT A MAN!!!! He showed his emotions while holding his son, and truly made winning the Superbowl secondary to his son!!

I love this guy!!!

Sweet Avery

2010-02-12T05:46:00.000-08:00

This is sweet Avery Grace!! My college roommate and childhood friend, Jess, had sweet Avery on Friday. They live less than 2 hours away here in Louisiana so we were able to go see her on Saturday :) I actually held her! I have not held a baby this fresh before, I made myself sit down and hold her, I was nervous! But she was so sweet! She actually looks just like Jess' little sister! I used to think that babies didn't look like anything other than newborn babies but this little thing definitely had some strong genes showing through!!

Congrats to new parents Jess and Jeff!!

Payton update

2010-02-10T17:26:00.000-08:00

I had my 20 week (5 month) Dr. appointment today-really I'm only 19 weeks, I am one week behind all of the milestones due to the doctor wanting to check me out after my first 1/2 marathon as a pregnant women when I was only 7 weeks, so starting then to see her every 4 weeks puts me one week behind always!

I admitted my craziness to Blake this past week, in which I will admit to all of you now! This may sound weird, negative, or even morbid, but I always feel a fear that she isn't there anymore. Usually about 2 weeks after an appointment I start to get worried that I have lost my sweet little girl. I just love her so much already and this seems way too good to be true at times. How lucky am I and how undeserving to have been blessed with this little life?!?! This happened this last month due to the fact I felt her move for the first time 3 weeks ago! Very early to feel her but it happened 2 other times since then. Once I didn't feel her for a week and a half I started to think I had lost her :( So I long for my doctors visits so I can hear that strong little heartbeat that puts my dream of a child, back into reality, she is really there and really inside of me. I have to say, I have wanted her for a long time, but new there were possible problems ahead. So to say I have been praying for many years for her, is no lie. So come to find out, I'm not the only crazy person with these thoughts!! YAY! I have had many friends tell me they thought the same or felt the same way. So when I told Blake, who I think thought I was insane, he just continued to reassure me everything was fine and she is there just maybe she is sleeping or being calm lately :)

Ok, back to appointment!! I gained a few pounds again!! YAY!!! This is understandable due to the fact I no longer throw up all of my food all day everyday anymore :) I am able to continue my active lifestyle, music to my ears!! No ultrasound today, but will get one the next visit in 4 weeks. So Payton and I both are doing great again!

Praise God for my little miracle in my belly!!

PRAYERS!

2010-01-30T05:38:00.000-08:00

Thank goodness because it takes me so long to post blogs this is now a request of prayers and thanking those for the prayers during this situation. Last Friday, my friend and co-worker, Brandi's life changed in a second. I commented on how we had just finished a good loud laugh about something, which is common for the two of us at work, when a friend came in and told her she needed to come with her to the hospital that her dad had been in a cycling accident. I will never forget Brandi's face when she turned around to grab what she could and run to her friends car.

Mr. Mike was on his regular morning ride on his bike, bicycle that is NOT motorcycle, when a car that did not see him, hit him from behind. Mike was awake at the scene, but soon had a seizure and was life flighted to the hospital. Side note, Brandi had just given him for Christmas the Road ID with his name, age, medical history, numbers to call in case of emergency, to wear on his shoe. They are worth the $20 for any athlete that you know, runners, cyclist, walkers, anyone who is on the road with vehicles around. So the Air Med guys new his information and who to call just by him having the small tag on his shoe, a gift from a few weeks before that made his family aware of what had happened almost immediately. Yay!

Ok, so Mr. Mike went into brain surgery almost immediately after arrival at the hospital. He also had several broken vertebrae in both his neck and back, brain at this point was most severe and #1 on the list of things to fix. He made it through the surgery great and went straight to ICU, where until this past Thursday was his home. Other than coming in and out of a deep sleep from all of the sedation meds, there was not too much action, however, every time a nurse or family member would ask him a question, Mike gave the correct answer!! YAY! He knows the current year, who is speaking to him, his name, family members around him and continues to become more aware of his surroundings. Now in his own private room, out of ICU, he has such hope for his recovery.

Please continue to pray for Mike, Sharon his wife, Ashley and Brandi his daughters. They appreciate the support and prayers from everyone!!!

15 weeks and Dr Update

2010-01-23T14:18:00.000-08:00

Ok so this is old news....I am actually 16 1/2 weeks now but Blake had our computer for awhile and was out of town.
First, I am in my running clothes for this picture because I ran the Houston Half Marathon my week 15.

I will talk about my running experience in a bit, but first cover the highlights of the doctor appt. Blake was out of town for this one, an important one to be gone for because we found out we are having a GIRL!!! Little Payton Lane will be here in July!!! My mother-in-law came with me for this appointment, I was so grateful that she came, I am nervouse to go to any of these appointments alone for some reason. I was uneasy to step on the scale and have the nurse put my weight over the loud speaker, but was glad to find out that I finally gained weight!!! 2 lbs up from my starting weight before I was pregnant!! I would like to gain gradually thus reducing my chances of stretch marks :( uggg!!! We heard the strong, healthy heartbeat again, talked some more about my violent vomiting problem, and my migrain headaches-both which pregnancy has given me for the past 7 weeks. I broke down and had both perscriptions filled-JUST IN CASE!!! I have not had to take anything yet, but knowing it is in the cabinet, makes me feel like there is releif if I choose. I will post the ultrasound pics as soon as I can scan them, she has grown into what looks like a baby!!! She has arms and legs, fingers that can grasp, eyelids, and so much more than that first picture revealed!

So everything still looks very healthy and good!! She is measuring right on schedule, I am measuring, belly-wise about 3-4 weeks behind :( This is probably because I have continued an active lifestyle which has been approved and encouraged by my doctor.

Ok, now for my running readers!! I once again, wussed out of the full marathon in which I was signed up for, and chose to run just the half. My mom, dad, and little sister came to the race, which I am so thankful for their support! Everyone who knows me, knows I am all about the support system at a race! My friends, Adam and Courtney came as well-so grateful for such wonderful friendships!!! The picture posted is one my sister took as I was approaching the finish and stopped off to kiss my family before continuing on to cross the finish.

This is only my second race, both were 1/2 marathons, being pregnant so I have learned to be less competitive in the sense I know I need to listen to my body and know my new limitations. I was still very upset with my chip time, 2:47, which did include waiting in a port-a-potty line to go to the bathroom at mile 10, some lower abdominal cramping also at mile 10 and walking through water stations to insure I stayed hydrated. My watch time, which timed only running and walking through stations was 2:35, but race officials don't care that I chose to wait in line to use the restroom, so my official time that haunts me is 2:47. My worst time by far in my career of running. Mile 12 was an emotional mile for me. Running has always been a very emotional and spiritual time for me, but this time was different, my eyes filled with tears with the thought that this was the last long competitive run for a good while. I am signed up for the full Houston marathon next year but that is a YEAR from now!!! I do have several 5K races to look forward to, but this goodbye to what I love more than almost everything, was so hard. Yes I am cleared to run as far as like everyday, but it is the competitive race that my heart longs for and that my body needs. Blake snuffed it off and didn't understand, but how could he-he does not have the runner's heart. My sports medicine doctor discussed it with me and was extremely supportive and understanding, however, he too possesses the runners passion and understanding. To give up something you truly love, is tough. But I am focused on the reason I am giving this love up, for a greater love...my baby girl!!!!! She is going to owe me big though, I told her on that mile that she will just have to like it when I strap her into the jogging stroller for a run to train for my 1st marathon post baby in January 2011!!!

Well lets just say I learned a lot this past week about being a mom...thank you mom for giving up that things that you enjoyed doing most, to love and raise me!!

My Heart is Broken...

2010-01-08T15:38:00.000-08:00

Hook 'em Horns!!! I am sad to say my team lost. Bummer!! Well, I did find this interview on YouTube that I want to share. My boy, Colt McCoy gives God the glory and states he stand on THE Rock! What a testimony! I hope in my everyday life when the time arises to give God glory, I do.

Ok, after 50 attempts I cant post the stinkin' video!!! So go to YouTube and type Colt McCoy in the search. The first one that comes up is his after game interview. Watch this one, it is great!!!

Have a wonderful weekend!!

Christmas 2009

2009-12-31T13:06:00.000-08:00

The whole family after Christmas Eve church!

The lights I (and Peyton!) put up all by ourselves!!

The Christmas tree! (of course it was up just after Thanksgiving!!)

Christmas was wonderful again this year! Holidays always means lots of traveling for Blake and I, but we think maybe with Peyton next year, we will request everyone to come to us!! :) Blake and I drove in (yes the 4 hour drive because of bad weather-no flying) Wednesday night, just in time to shop for a few last minute gifts! Christmas Eve we met our friends Adam and Courtney for breakfast. We always enjoy seeing them-we are thankful for such wonderful friendships! From there we went to my parents to get ready for my favorite thing about Christmas-Christmas Eve church!! I have always loved this service since I was young and Blake knows how important it is to me! We have only missed it once in 5 years! Not sure if it was preggers hormones, or the thought that next year we will most likely stay in Louisiana for the entire holiday, or just the amazing orchestra during the last verse of Joy to The World, but tears filled my eyes...I love Christmas! I love that my Savior was born for you and me, to then save you and me!! I wanted to shout from the roof top the last verse...

He rules the world with truth and grace,

And makes the nations prove

The glories of His righteousness,

and wonders of His love,

And wonder, wonders of His love!

What made your Christmas so special? Hope everyone enjoyed their holiday season! have a Happy New Year blog friends!!!!

Baby Broussard has a name!!!!

2009-12-29T16:13:00.000-08:00

So after a lot of discussing, tons of suggestions, and a book of 55,000 names, we finally agreed upon a name for our little one!! Drum roll please........Peyton (no middle name just yet for a boy) and Payton Lane for a girl!!! Haha That's how bad it was, we could only decide on one name regardless of what gender he or she is!!

Only 7 more weeks until we know which version of Peyton/Payton we will have!!

Meet Baby Broussard!!

2009-12-20T15:13:00.000-08:00

The scan quality is not too great and if you are like me, you can only pick out the head! haha The first picture is of his face, you can actually see his eyes and open mouth on the actual copy. The second is just a side profile of head and body. He only has arm and leg buds at this point, but you can make those out as well.

His first picture!!!!

11 wks and Dr update

2009-12-20T14:35:00.000-08:00

Hello 11 weeks and hello little pooch! Going from a 6 pack to having a little roll is a bit weird but I am embracing this time!! Haha Its the only time in my life I can cheat on our normal healthy practices! Blake and I went to the Dr. last Wednesday, just a follow up and to hear the heartbeat!!! My Dr. is so laid back and is always helpful to both Blake and I, who always ask a ton of questions! After telling us to not freak out if she could not find the heart beat (at 11 weeks its still really early to try and find with the doppler) she began to mash around. Blake commented on if it was ok that she pressed that hard on my tummy! Bless her, she said that since I am so skinny, we found it!!! I was thankful for the compliment, due to the newly settled roll on my abdomen!! So there it was, our baby's healthy heart beat! 144 beats a minute, old wives tale states that's a boy!!!! Haha So we scheduled my first ultrasound for Friday. So two days later back for more, this time it was unbelievable! After taking many pictures of parts inside of me, she finally focused on our baby!! He was moving around a bit, in fact the tech made a comment about it! I like to think he is running in there!! The heart beat was 176 this time....ummm that means girl! Yikes! These old wives tales are killing me! So I guess the suspense remains until 20 weeks. Everything looked and sounded great and healthy!!

As for me, I am looking forward to the 12th week...I hear I will have some energy and will stop this gagging mess!! I sure am over the violent gagging! Although happy to finally being showing signs of pregnancy. For the first 7 weeks I did not feel any different at all! Well then came week 8 with gagging every time I was hungry or smelled anything that didn't seem right!! Ha The sickness strangely put me at ease, I no longer felt like this wasn't real! The gagging gave me a sense of reality! Yay! But now that I am a believer, I am ready to not gag anymore!! :)

Next appointment is in January!! Will keep you posted!!

Well HELLO!!!!

2009-12-09T16:50:00.000-08:00

Ok, I have not fallen off the face of the earth!!! Work has been a bit crazy with new changes in our office, our home computer was on the fritz but got one that works!! and this pregnancy thing has got me feeling BEAT after work everyday!!!

I have to share a story from work. We have a lot special needs patients, and anyone who knows me, knows that this is such a gift to be able to work with people with special needs on a daily basis-even if just for 30 minutes out of my day! :) Since high school I have enjoyed being with special needs people, I unlike many, am not uncomfortable around them. Earlier this week a lady in her mid 40's, I would guess, came in for her annual check up. We take these patients pictures for their files to help with identification purposes. When I went for her, I realised we needed to take a picture for her file. So I called her name and when I asked if she could smile for me, she had a wonderful personality and was pumped that I wanted to take her picture! She thanked me for taking her picture and again thanked me when I told her how pretty it turned out. I brought her back to the room, all the while she is thanking me for letting her come, and thanking me for letting her sit in the "main chair" in the room! While waiting for Dr. Landry, I sat with her and we had the nicest chat. She was very excited about going home for Christmas, told me how her family was coming to take her from the home where she lives, to her real home for a few days. After Dr. Landry was finished with the exam, and after her thanking him for it, we were on our way up front when she asked if she could have a copy of the picture I took. Of course I told her yes and went to print one out for her. Our printer takes a bit so i sat at the front counter with her discussing her brand new outfit she was very excited to be wearing! A girl after my own heart!! After telling me the reason she wanted a copy of the picture was because I told her she looked pretty in it and she wanted to take it to her family so they wouldn't forget her, she grabbed my hand and thanked me more!

When I tell you this warmed my heart to spend this 30 minutes with her. She was such a joy to be around. The simple things-she was so very genuinely thankful for, and expressed it at that! I started to think about how I need to say thank you more often. I can only hope to be more like her in her gratitude to those around me.

Tell someone thank you for something small that you are truly thankful for today!!

8 WEEKS!

2009-11-27T13:25:00.000-08:00

Baby Broussard at 8 weeks! Excuse the ugly pink scrubs, my Monday attire for work, but you can see a little bump that was not there before! I was so proud of my flat 6 pack and now there is just a little layer of fat on the last section of that pack! haha

I go to the doctors at 12 weeks, so expect a pic in December! All is well with me and baby :)

San Antonio Journey!!

2009-11-16T16:03:00.000-08:00

This is me...so TIRED!!!!!

Ready for a crazy post?! My Marathon journey started Friday after my Sports Med Appt. Loaded up Champ and we were off to Houston! We arrived around 6pm, just in time for a wonderful Lasagna dinner at my mom's! Saturday, after my dad refereed a couple of games we were back on the road to San Antonio. We just made it before the expo closed, to pick up my race packet. We picked a nice Sonic dinner and headed to the hotel where we caught the Texas Tech Red Raiders BEAT OSU!!! Shoot 'em up!!! Turned in very early, after all, big day on Sunday! Ok, here's the good part...Sunday morning I woke up and got ready just like any other marathon, only this time I was SO nervous...more nervous than ever...not just nerves about running a marathon...but because 6 days before I found out I am PREGNANT!!!! Yes, that's right, I was running for 2!!! So of course most people were worried about me running, so I was contemplating just running the 1/2 marathon, even though I was cleared by 2 OB's and my sports med doctor. I talked to my dad and after receiving his advice I decided I would in fact just run the half. I didn't know how much this would actually affect me. At mile 10.5, runners had to make a choice, full marathoners to the right and 1/2 marathoners to the left. When I forced my legs to the left, I started to cry. Not because of pain, but because in my mind I was failing myself. I have never started something in my life, and not finished it. I will receive a DQ (disqualification) for the marathon race because I had signed up for the race and did not complete it, but will receive an official time for the half marathon. Then I started to think about why I was reacting like this, I mean after all I had another 3 miles to figure myself out!! Mixed with emotions of hormones, and the experience of a race for me, came a realization that its not about me anymore. I had made this decision for someone else, not me, for little Baby Broussard! I then began to look at it as a good thing. Still hard for the competitive side of me to see that DQ, but a good decision overall! Race went well! Finished with a 2 hr 25 min time-satisfied with that!!! I did meet 2 pregnant girls at the start of the race who were a tremendous source of encouragement and information. Thank you Christy (6 mos pregnant) and Kristen (3 mos pregnant) who I don't know your last names, but thank you for all of your words!! These girls were running the half marathon!! Not to mention their cute shirts that said "One Bad Mother Runner" on the front!!

So as soon as I crossed the finish line, met up with my dad, we were in the car AGAIN to head home. We were able to go look at our old house from when we lived there when I was younger. It was sad to see it is not kept the way my parents had kept it, but good to see something familiar! Once getting back to Houston, took a break for a few minutes and was back in the car to head to Louisiana. Did I mention I had to do all of this traveling because my boss would not give me Monday off?!?! Yep, still bitter!! I arrived home around 7pm, with enough time to take a bath and head to bed early! YIKES! Long and fast weekend!!!

All in all it was a great time, I had a blast with my dad! I liked having a weekend with just us :) He was such a good chauffeur and support system at the race!! My mom is the ultimate dog sitter and gave Champ royal treatment while we were in San Antonio, so much that I left him for the week and will pick him up when I go back into town next weekend. Thanks mom and Hannah!!

Ill post more on the pregnancy later, just excited to announce to everyone!! Praise God for this baby in me!

Have a great week!

San Antonio here I come!!!

2009-11-13T04:53:00.000-08:00

"In running, it doesn't matter whether you come in first, in the middle of the pack, or last. You can say 'I have finished.' There is a lot of satisfaction in that."

Ok, off to San Antonio for the Marathon on Sunday! I will post Monday afternoon about my journey. That is if I am still alive...my boss did not give me Monday off...I guess I love a challenge! YIKES! Pray for my SI joint on Sunday, and my attitude at work on Monday. (I'm bitter..can you tell?!)

2009-11-12T04:48:00.000-08:00

"You have a choice. You can throw in the towel, or you can use it to wipe the sweat off of your face."--Gatorade

The decision I am faced every mile 17!

Thursday!! My favorite day of the week!! Have a great one!

:)

2009-11-11T04:42:00.000-08:00

"The greatest pleasure in life, is doing the things people say we cannot do."-- Walter Bagehot

This one made me smile. Any of you who know me, know this is me! It doesn't matter if you were or are someone who is saying I can't do something to be spiteful or just honest, I will kill myself proving to you I CAN!!! Haha I love a challenge! Even from when I was little, my parents would agree, what I set my mind to, I try to accomplish. Thank you to all of my friends and family who have always supported me and pushed me when I needed it along the way!

Happy Hump Day!!

Happy Tuesday!

2009-11-10T03:27:00.000-08:00

Every morning in Africa, a gazelle wakes up. It knows it must outrun the fastest lion or it will be killed.Every morning in Africa, a lion wakes up. It knows that it must run faster than the slowest gazelle, or it will starve.It doesn't matter whether you're a lion or a gazelle when the sun comes up you'd better be running.
(But, unless you're a runner, you won't understand.)
-Anon

I've posted this before...I just LOVE it!!

Inspirations for the week

2009-11-09T04:48:00.000-08:00

I will be posting an inspiration for each day the next 6 days leading up to the marathon on Sunday(all running quotes of course!! Ha). The butterflies have officially begun. I am nervous and excited! The anticipation is always intense the week of for me. Please pray for this new injury discovered last Friday...SI joint and all the muscles surrounding it. I will see my sports med doc only once more before Sunday-YIKES!

Here is a little thought for today...

"Tough times don't last but tough people do." - A.C. Green

Happy Monday :)

SUCCESS!!!!!

2009-11-08T06:12:00.000-08:00

The Chili Cook Off was a complete success!!!

Thank you to everyone who came and showed support for Running Hope! I appreciate the travelers, Sara and kids OK, Mom and Sarah TX to take time to drive out and support both Running Hope and me. Thank you to the cooking teams, Acadian Contractors, Acadiana Flight School, Sugar Mill Pond and Wet Tech Energy. Thank you to all of my in-laws who ALL came out and stayed the entire event. Thank you to The Picardy Birds who did a fantastic job supplying us with wonderful music and talent!

It is because of ALL of you, that I surpassed my goal of $5240! Thank you again!!

What can I say...

2009-10-29T03:29:00.000-07:00

I can only imagine how much I will love my children because I absolutely love this little guy!!! This is my precious godson who is just cute, funny, sweet and has got a charming personality already at age 4! I can only hope to have little guys just like this turkey!!! Just had to share this sweet picture :)

Happy 3 yrs!

2009-10-28T15:20:00.000-07:00

Wow! It has been 3 years already that Blake and I are married. Happy Anniversary Blake!!! Love you!

Sorry I keep posting the same picture of Blake and I, we don't have many pics together-I'm always behind the camera :) Also all of our pics are on my crashed laptop :(

Fredricksberg, TX

2009-10-25T15:36:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post and few pics from our annual trip to the hangar hotel!! Starting with our 1st anniversary, Blake and I flew to the hangar hotel. We met a couple, Phil and Sara, celebrating Sara's birthday (same day as our anniversary). They live in the Humble area and had made the trip once before. It didn't take long for the 4 of us to agree that this needed to be an annual thing!! So each year since 2006 we have met there for a weekend of fun!! Our party has grown each year, this year we had 17 in our group!! How fun! It is always the same weekend as the Wine and Food festival in town! Such a relaxing weekend full of fun, wine, friends, flying and memories!!!

How cool!! We flew over UT stadium! You can even see the longhorn on the field!!! Hook 'Em Horns!!!

Our hotel!!

Me and Emily! They are our friends from Louisiana who joined us for their first trip to the Hangar Hotel!! We had a blast together!!

Emily and I running on the taxiway alongside of the runway!! This was HEAVEN to me!!! Emily is running the 1/2 marathon in San Antonio in November, she needed a run in this weekend so I was all over it!! We ran 9.5 miles Saturday morning and then joined our husbands in the diner for breakfast!! Running and airplanes all at the same time...HEAVEN!!!!!

PS. Congrats to Phil and Sara who informed us they are expecting!! After Wednesday, we will have to call you Dr. Sara and Phil!!! Way to Go Sara!!!

Queen Sydney!!

2009-10-20T05:50:00.000-07:00

This weekend was Sydney's homecoming! She made Queen! Blake and I drove her in a white convertible BMW in the parade. Then she was crowned at the dance Saturday! What a beautiful Queen!!

Friday at the parade
Sydney being officially crowned.

Beautiful!!

The whole court. Poor Syd, you can't see her because they gave her 2 dozen of roses to hold!!! It was cute, she didnt know what to do with them!!

Look out Vera Bradley!!!

2009-10-18T14:43:00.000-07:00

You cant see but on the navy part there is very detailed pleats that I am proud of!!
This bag is my favorite! It looks like a Vera Bradley bag that I would buy!!

Even though a part of me felt old for sewing on my vacation, I am excited to reveal what I made!!

Look what I found!!!!

2009-10-15T17:02:00.000-07:00

This is Champ's Halloween costume this year!!! He is the cutest pumpkin at the pumpkin patch!!!

Fun!

2009-10-13T16:53:00.000-07:00

These are a few pics from our fun evening on a party bus to Baton Rouge. We had about 25 people get together for a few of our friend's birthdays to get a party bus and drive to Baton Rouge for dinner and drinks! What fun friends and neighbors we have!!

Auntie Ry and Uncle B

2009-10-11T04:47:00.000-07:00

As of 2 weeks ago Blake and I are an Aunt and Uncle for the first time! This is Aubrey, our niece!

One day she will be big enough to actually wear the outfit we got her!! Geaux Tigers!!!!!

Finished!!!

2009-10-09T16:34:00.000-07:00

I mentioned a while back that I had 2 pieces of furniture from my Granny's house that I was planning to refinish, well finally I started on them and now I'm done!!! Here are some before and after pics!!!

Let the count down begin!!!

2009-10-07T04:39:00.000-07:00

1 month from today is the Chili Cook-Off Benefit to honor Samuel!!

I am so excited, and thankfully everything is already starting to come together!! Please begin to pray for this event!

Begin to donate or pledge now...

http://members.shaohannahshope.org/goto/samuelmark

All proceeds benefit the Running Hope Foundation. Running Hope supports the efforts of runners and walkers as they raise both awareness of the orphan cause and funds for organizations that are making a difference in the lives of orphans around the world.
Running Hope is proud to partner with and support to Shaohannah’s Hope through all of their fundraising efforts. Shaohannah’s Hope is dedicated to helping prospective adoptive parents overcome the financial barriers associated with adoption. They accomplish this through grants to families who are already in the process of adopting.

For more information please visit showhope.org or runninghope.org

Playlist

2009-09-28T16:38:00.000-07:00

I've been searching for the best song for my playlist...I found it!! This is Alive Again by Matt Maher

ENJOY!!!

I woke up in darkness

sounded by silence

oh where, where have I gone?

I woke to reality

losing its grip on me

oh where, where have I gone?

Cause I can see the light

before I see the sunrise

You called and you shouted

broke through my deafness

now I’m breathing in

and breathing out

I’m alive again!

You shattered my darkness

washed away my blindness

now I’m breathing in

and breathing out

I’m alive again!

They never loved you

you waited for me,

I searched for you…

what took me so long?

I was looking outside

as a love would ever want to hide

I’m finding I was wrong

Cause I can feel the wind

before it hits my skin

Cause I want you!

Yes, I want you,

I need you

And I’ll do what ever I have to

Just to get through

cause I love you

Yeah, I love you!

RUNNING!

2009-09-26T16:12:00.000-07:00

Running is the classical road to self-consciousness, self-awareness and self-reliance. Independence is the outstanding characteristic of a runner. She learns the harsh reality of her physical and spiritual limitations when she runs. She learns that personal commitment, sacrifice and determination are her only means to betterment. Runners get promoted only through self-conquest.

I found this quote and could not explain running any better!!!! I have blogged in the past about why I run, self fulfillment, is the best way I can describe it. Whether it is spiritual, physical, and or emotional, it all comes down to fulfillment! It gives me such purpose. To know that I have reached limits that most are too weak to try, gives me a sense of accomplishment!

I am however, looking for a new challenge and goal...any suggestions?!?!

Happy Birthday!!

2009-09-25T04:22:00.000-07:00

Happy 29th Birthday Blake!!!!!!!!

2009-09-22T18:16:00.000-07:00

Be the kind of women that when your feet hit the ground each morning the devil says "Oh CRAP, she's up!"

OH HOLY MOLY AND OH THANK GOODNESS!!!!!

2009-09-21T16:55:00.000-07:00

Oh HOLY MOLY!!! I have had the privilege (not really) of having what Blake calls "Bayou Butt!!" This is also known to runners as chaffing!!! YIKES!!! Well everyone here swears by the phenomenon Boudreaux's Butt Paste!! Let's just say I too, now swear by it!!! Haha It is working!

Happy Birthday!!!

2009-09-20T06:49:00.001-07:00

Happy birthday to my friend Sara!!! We were just talking yesterday how we feel so much more like sisters than cousins, cousin-in-laws for tht matter!!! Happy birthday to someone who is caring, loving, and beautiful inside and out!!! Love and miss you!!

Governor Bobby Jindal

2009-09-17T18:27:00.000-07:00

Blake, Governor Bobby Jindal, and me

This was from the other night at a political party that we, along with 24 others, hosted. I was a bit nervous, I don't think I have ever met anyone political before. I didn't want to look or sound like an idiot. Well the looking like part was difficult, it was POURING down rain when we arrived-explanation of the nasty hair! We had a great time and everything turned out well. Other than being introduced all night as Blake's wife Rayne (pronounced Rain over here!) We enjoyed our time with the Governor and the night turned out well.

YAY!!!!!

2009-09-16T18:13:00.000-07:00

Yay! I am so excited, Jordan is the winner of Big Brother 11! I have been cheering for her and Jeff since day one! Mainly Jeff because he was SO good looking!!! I am pumped this sweet, cute, little waitress with a southern accent won!!

Biggest Loser started last night too. All I can say is OH MY. Not due to the contestant's sizes, but because of Abby's story. Abby lost her entire family, husband and 2 children in a car accident. To hear her open up and be so honest on national tv, to the details of wishing she had been in the car with them, is amazing. My heart hurts for this complete stranger. I am already hoping she wins this season. Oh the things God has in store for her life! To be spared in such a terrible situation.

Way too many new seasons of shows! Thank goodness for DVR!

Its Official....

2009-08-30T18:24:00.000-07:00

As of 12:00pm August 30, 2009 I am a private pilot!!! I passed my checkride with the FAA examiner. It was a rough 4 hours, very tiring...I am so glad that I have accomplished this goal I had made when I first took a ride in a Cessna 172 with a friend/instructor at my job at the flight school, when I was just 19!!! It still really has not sunk in yet, a little bit this afternoon when I took my first passenger...Blake!!! We had a blast!!!!

I'll post pics this week, I think I may turn in early tonight :)

God's little creation...

2009-08-27T08:12:00.000-07:00

I do not think I posted about these little guys yet, but I thought it was so cute! This is a bird's eye view (no pun intended) of a candle vase in my in-laws back porch. A mama bird had made her little nest inside of it and laid 4 eggs. My father-in-law were out sitting one afternoon and he showed them to me. We watched as the mama bird would wait for us to go inside and then come to the vase and feed her little babies. When I would walk up to take a picture of them, they would hear me coming and throw their little heads back and open their huge mouths and wait as if I was there to feed them!!! It was so sweet! I mean their huge eyes weren't even open yet!! They are just so ugly that they are cute!! Haha I just loved watching them and thinking about how God created nature. It was just a beautiful little thing!! I am so thankful I was there to see them!!

New Orleans Weekend!

2009-08-24T07:45:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, we had a girls trip to New Orleans!! We had a blast! We came home with lots of laughs, memories, funny stories and jokes! We went to meet up with an old co-worker who just moved there, and to have a little fun on Bourbon of course!!!

Brooke, Emily and me on our way to the N.O.
Polly and I-excuse the nasty hair-the girls curled it and then we went out in HUMIDITY and danced so much we were so SWEATY! haha GROSS!!

Polly, Brooke, Me, Emily, Ann, oh and that would be ROY!!!!!!!

Us girls again! And that would be "the Big show" there in the blue shirt and white glasses! YIKES!

Look at the sweat on homeboy here! Wow that is some dancin'!!!!

Ann and I-lookin a bit rough towards the end of the night! Haha

NEW YORK NEW YORK!!!

2009-08-22T17:05:00.000-07:00

FINALLY a few pictures from the trip!!!!

John Lennon's Imagine memorial in Central Park
The fountain from the show "Friends" in Central Park

New York skyline at sunset on top of Rockefeller Tower

This poor guy biked with Blake and I in his little cart throughout Central Park!! His little legs :(

I thought of my sweet cousin Caleb in the M&M factory! They had every color of M&M's you could think of!!!! Sorry Caleb, I looked for a jawbreaker...

Statue of Liberty on our ferry ride to Staten Island

Ground Zero, the new Freedom Tower will stand tall in place of the Twin Towers

Wall Street! We also saw the New York Stock Exchange just down the street

Little Italy, just a few streets over from Chinatown

Times Square, just outside of our hotel

What a TREAT!!!

2009-08-21T18:41:00.000-07:00

Front view

Back view

What a sweet surprise this Monday at work!!! One of the girls I work with receives flowers and fruit baskets all of the time, so when I saw these in the office, I assumed they were hers. Two hours later...I am informed they are mine from mom and dad!!!! A card came with it (that I now carry with me in my purse :) ) that simply said "we are so proud of you!" Oh how you have no idea what those 6 tiny words mean to me! I was so excited that my parents validated how important this test was for me. One of Blake's childhood friend's mom called me to congratulate me also, how sweet! Many friends texted me that day to wish me luck, I am so thankful to everyone! I appreciate all of the love and support from back home!!
Please continue to pray for me, the big day is coming quickly. I will finally have completed and accomplished my goal of becoming a pilot!!! Anyone want a ride?!?!?!?!?!?!! ;)

What a lift....

2009-08-14T15:30:00.000-07:00

Thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers...I passed my written exam for my pilots license today!! I have never had test anxiety like I did today, I have always be a shaker...put a needle my way and I shake uncontrollably as if I was in a blizzard! I literally was shaking so bad I was having a hard time clicking the mouse during my test! Crazy huh?!?!?! I am so thankful that this step is over and now I can focus on the big oral test and flight test with the FAA in a couple of weeks. Please continue to send love my way!

A few little somethings...

2009-08-10T16:28:00.000-07:00

My Runner's World email quote for the day...

You have a choice, either throw in the towel, or use it to wipe the sweat from your face.

Also, have to be short, I HAVE to go study for the big test Friday :( but my benefit plans for the Samuel Mark Foundation are underway!!!! Here are the few details I have-November 7(the weekend before the big race) my neighborhood so graciously is hosting my Chili Cook-Off benefit!! There (fingers crossed) will be a local band playing for the day and lots of Chili to be eaten!!! What a fun family event!!!

Ok, more details to come and I promise to post pics of New York! Study time it is!!!!

New York New York!!!

2009-08-07T13:04:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!!!

Short post to let you know that we are safe and sound back from New York!! We had a blast but are exhausted!!! I will be posting pictures soon, and maybe the video of us on Good Morning America!!

Hope all is well!

Studying hard for my private pilots written test, so hopefully I will be posting soon and often again!!

Katie's Wonder Walk!!

2009-07-25T14:32:00.001-07:00

This morning was one of our patients and friend's wonder walk. Katie was involved in a horrific gym accident that could have taken her life. Her face was literally crushed, causing her to lose her right eye. She spent weeks in ICU and has already been through many surgeries and has many many more to go. Her attitude is one of a warrior, and she gives such a testimony of faith. Please continue to pray for Katie and her journey.

Us before the big 1 mile walk!!!
Polly, Katie, and me
The New Orleans Saints Cheerleaders

Solo time...

2009-07-09T18:17:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know anything about pilots, getting your license, or flying for that matter-when I refer to solo time, this does actually mean-me and the plane...that's it!!! I have to build a total of 10 hours of solo flight time as one of the many requirements in retrieving my private pilot's license. I literally have been in awe with each of these solo flights. I know my instructor would die if he knew that the other day I snuck my camera in the plane with me and shot a video and some pics!! It is just amazing, I wanted to share it with all of you. I have always been religious and spiritual, but flying has truly strengthened my walk with my Savior. I'm not talking in the way of praying to God every time I'm up that nothing go wrong or plead with him to help me get this thing landed, but more along the lines of a peace with Him. I am in awe of His creations, and so much more aware of the details He took time to create. Flying has been such a blessing lately, with the sad news of yet another baby cousin of mine passing away, the anger I feel is lifted and replaced with a peace for an hour at a time as I build my solo time. I am hoping to gain an understanding to the ciaos and pray I will have the words to console my dear friend Sara.

Here is a pic to prove its just me in the little two-seater plane!!!!

Here is the video I took. I was trying to get the entire panel in the shot to show various instruments to Blake. I also was doing some turns for you guys and then show at the end that its just me in there!! Haha It is too loud in there for you to hear my radio calls and narration but I think its a cool video anyhow :)

Heavy Hearts

2009-07-03T10:03:00.000-07:00

Please pray for my wonderful friend and cousin Sara. You remember her and her family's name because just 8 months ago she delivered my sweet cousin Samuel, who passes away a day after his due date. Things were hopeful a few months ago when they were chosen by a birth mother willing to bless them with the gift of adoption. Yesterday, when they went to the doctors office with her, they were thrown right back into their horrible recent past. The sweet little baby girl, did not have a heartbeat. This young girl is now faced with the same horrific scene of having to be induced and deliver her baby girl soon. Please pray for the following:

Faith, the birth mom-she has no idea what she is soon to face.

Sara, sweet Sara, that she may have some understanding in this horrible thing that she has now experienced TWICE.

Greg, Sara's husband and my cousin, to know the words of comfort he has to give his wife once again.

My sweet little cousins who have no idea why this keeps happening. They want a brother or sister and now have to go through this situation of loosing a sibling again.

Pray for those of us who have been raised as Christians and are ANGRY and raw. Situations like this, are the very times when people turn away. I pray that this is not the case for anyone who is affected. I pray, but am not sure what to pray. I have been praying for months and months for something good and right to happen after the death of Samuel. I am truly at a loss for words.

I have a heavy heart today for my family. I too, know the yearning heart for children and I know its hard to face the reality of problems with pregnancy, and for this to happen twice to them is not fair. I cannot imagine what they are going through, I can only grieve with them and continue to be hopeful for what is in store for their future.

I am sorry for my raw post, its just what I am struggling with and EXTREMELY confused about.

Birthday Verse

2009-06-28T08:10:00.000-07:00

My dad sent this email to me. Click the following link, fill in your birthday and see what your birth verse is!!!

http://WWW.birthverse.Com/mybirthverse.cfm

Mine is...

Zechariah 10:1 NIV

Ask the LORD for rain in the springtime; it is the LORD who makes the storm clouds. He gives showers of rain to men, and plants of the field to everyone.

HOOK 'M HORNS!!!!!

2009-06-24T17:47:00.001-07:00

Come on TEXAS!!!!! Game 3, finals, CHAMPIONSHIP, for all the marbles!!!!! HOOK 'EM HORNS!!!! Show those tigers what we are made of!!!!!!!!

2 Strokes....

2009-06-22T17:06:00.000-07:00

Poor Phil found himself only 2 strokes from the number one spot on the leader board in the US Open. That's like loosing by one goal in Lacrosse, one basket in basketball, or one point in volleyball, I cant take it! I have always said that its better to lose by just a few than a lot, this just shows that you put up a fight and were that much closer to number one! However, I think you beat yourself up over the slightest difference. I know with running, when I miss a goal time by minutes or even seconds, I play the race over in my mind and wonder where I could have made that time up or done better. Man!! I'm so mad that my pick wasn't first!!!!!

Oh well...onto TEXAS vs. lsu for the college baseball championship game!!! GOOOOO LONGHORNS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hook 'em Horns!!!!!!!!!

Gooooooooo PHIL!!!!!

2009-06-21T18:46:00.000-07:00

Ok, so huge fan of the US open!!! I have always been a fan of Phil Mickelson, who after today happens to be second on the leader board!!!! WOOOHOOOO!!!!!! David Duval finds himself fourth, another fav of mine!!

We shall see!!!

Thanks to my dad, I love the US Open!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Have a great week!!

Lots of exciting things going on that I will post about soon!!! (no I am NOT prego!) hahaha after having everyone ask me while visiting Spring this weekend, I felt I needed to add what is NOT going on! HA

RUNNING!

2009-06-16T13:36:00.000-07:00

"You have to wonder at times what you're doing out there. Over the years, I've given myself a thousand reasons to keep running, but it always comes back to where it started. It comes down to self-satisfaction and a sense of achievement." - Steve Prefontaine

I saw this quote and it totally fit! I have blogged before about my strange love for running, but when I read this it reminded me how much running is a part of my life, a part of me. No matter if I am am having a good or bad day, I want to run. Whether stressed or excited, I want to run. It is something about the challenge that just intrigues me. My family and friends no how competitive I am in EVERYTHING, but I am most competitive with myself. The sport of running total satisfies my competitiveness with myself. I continue to push my body to its limits and love every minute of it, or should I say every bloody toe of it!! I am a passionate person about most things. Every idea, belief, or subject I have an opinion and am very passionate about it.

What intrigues you? What do you love so much that even pain wouldn't keep you from doing it?

Vero Beach, FL

2009-05-31T14:01:00.000-07:00

Our home for the week! Vero Beach Spa and Resort. This is the view from where I was laying out, we literally walked onto the sand from the hotel! Beautiful!!!

This is the pool from Dustin's balcony. This pool saw a serious game of Volleyball one night from us!! :)

This guy here, yes, he is doing yoga on the beach...

Jacie and I on the beach

Dustin, the other pilot with us

Blake having a drink AFTER flight school for the day! :)

The storms that rolled in EVERY afternoon...sometimes very scary :(

I may send this pic in to Ethos, it looks like an ad!!

This little guy we met on the beach! It was a typical "guy bringing his dog on the beach so he can run after him when he finds girls on the beach" scene! HAHA Went ahead a threw out the husband word a few times!! HA But his dog was so cute!!

What a fun week! Back to work tomorrow, only 8 weeks till my next week of vacay!!!!

Florida

2009-05-29T17:27:00.001-07:00

This is me after a week in Vero Beach, Florida! I will post about our little vacay later this week, but for now I have plans for my bed, my pillow, and myself!

Hope everyone had a great week!

Last weekend....TEXAS!!!!

2009-05-24T08:03:00.000-07:00

Yes, that is Blake, the dog hater, holding sweet Winston!!!

little winston and BIG LUKE!!!!!

Last weekend we lucked out and got caught in weather, doesn't sound like luck...hahaha but instead of direct to Dallas, we landed in Spring for the night. We were able to then celebrate Adam's graduation from law school!! Way to go Adam!!! We had so much fun, as always with them, and were able to meet their new addition, Winston!!!! He is the cutest thing I have ever seen! I'm pretty sure I never saw him walk, he was in my arms the whole time!!!

The next morning we were Dallas bound!!! Due to weather again, we had to drive :( We had a blast at the AMAZING resort we stayed at!!! It was soooo nice!! What a treat! This is us before the reception, we were waiting on some friends in the parking lot and got bored! Not the best picture we have taken, but it is a funny one!!

Looking drunk and haven't had a sip yet!! hahaha

I am disappointed that I did not take a lot more pictures of the wedding! It was beautiful! The vineyard was gorgeous, as well as the bride!!!! I love this picture, look at the groom Ryan, does he not look like the happiest man alive!!!??!!! I am so happy for Lindsay and Ryan, without a doubt, a match made to last forever!

WOOOHOOO!!!!

2009-05-21T19:50:00.001-07:00

2009 American Idol Kris Allen!!!!

How hot is he when he sings and plays that guitar??!?!?!! Hahaha Yes, Blake knows of this crush and thinks I'm silly, but Kris rocks my world!!! I am so excited!!!!

Prayers

2009-05-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

Please pray for my dad's friend. His 22 year old son died in a car accident Monday night. Please pray for understanding, healing and comfort for parents Richard and Joan, and sister Ashley.
May God make his presence known with his healing hand.

The Big "D" !!!

2009-05-12T14:54:00.000-07:00

Yes, I got very tired of it just being me, myself and I in the car for 3 hrs!!!!

Beautiful DALLAS TEXAS!!!

Murph and Me

Yes mam!!! She wore the hat ALL night!!!!

Back from a fun weekend in Dallas!!! Friday Blake flew me to Spring to hang out with family and friends, Saturday I drove to Dallas for a bachelorette party!! Only a few more days, and my college friend, Murph (her real name is Lindsay) will be a MRS!!!!! We had a blast and it was so fun to see all my Tech girlfriends again!

I am so excited to see everyone again this coming weekend for the wedding!!!

TEXAS time!!!!!!

:)

2009-05-05T04:41:00.000-07:00

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass,
It's about learning to dance in the rain.

Have a wonderful Tuesday!!