Adventures in Babysitting

New Pictures Of the Doodlebug

2010-12-23T09:41:00.000-08:00

7 Weeks Old

Santa brought Parker a BB gun early

Flip Camera

2010-12-04T10:53:00.000-08:00

Jim got a Flip Camera for his birthday last year and of course I have taken it over. It's really neat and easy to use and we've enjoyed taking videos with it. I hope Parker grows up and enjoys seeing himself at various ages - and some video of him before he was even born.

I've uploaded a few videos to my YouTube page.

I can't believe he will be five weeks old tomorrow.

Holiday Joy

2010-12-03T09:47:00.000-08:00

The Best Feeling in the World

2010-11-23T14:31:00.000-08:00

Besides the love of a new baby. . .

Fitting into my pre-pregnancy panties again! Woohoo! It's all about the little milestones, ya know?

3 Weeks Old

2010-11-21T17:14:00.000-08:00

Getting Adjusted to Being Mom

2010-11-15T08:46:00.000-08:00

Things are going well in the Patty household. We are trying to get adjusted to being parents and learning the ins and outs of our little guy. He already runs the show around here!

Getting over the physical pains of labor is another story. It's day 15 and the pain is still intense. It sucks actually. I have awful cabin fever but I don't want to get the baby out this early - especially with the onset of flu season just around the corner. Maybe he can make his debut around Christmas. I'll really be stir crazy by then.

Parker's face is all broken out in baby acne and Jim thinks I did something to cause it. The other day I gave him a sponge bath and his skin started to peel some and he thought I caused that too. He is such a doting dad though. They are my two favorite guys by far.

Here are a few new pics of our precious little bundle of joy. He's almost 10 lbs already! I can't believe he is already two weeks old.

Baby Parker is Here

2010-11-05T09:26:00.000-07:00

First visit to the doctor

With cousins Callie & Cameron

Parker James Patty
Born 10/31/2010
9 lbs. 2.4 ounces
22 inches long

We love him so much already!

A Few Things

2010-10-20T08:58:00.000-07:00

Here are two pics of my favorite girls at a corn maze in McDonough. Cameron (left) called me to tell me that she will be Cruella Deville for Halloween and Callie (right) will be a Dalmatian puppy. How cute will that be! During our phone conversation, which happened to be my 29th birthday, Cameron informed me that I am "as old as the dinosaurs." That's one way to put it. Love those girls!

I'm officially 9 1/2 months along now and have 2 weeks to go. We are so excited for baby Parker to make his grand entrance! When will it be?

On a different note, I've been reflecting on a few things this week and it amazes me how you can heal from things that deeply affect your life - sometimes without evening realizing it. October 7th marked one year since I had a miscarriage. I honestly thought I'd never get over that experience. But yesterday, as I worked in the yard, I realized that the date had passed and it hadn't even crossed my mind. I am both happy and sad by that realization. Each day brings healing and happiness.

I am so looking forward to the new chapter in my life - becoming a Mom! Jim and I will mark 6 years of marriage in February (11 years together) and we are absolutely ecstatic to become parents to this baby boy!

Pics to come. . .

What Makes Me Smile

2010-09-09T11:39:00.000-07:00

My niece Cameron called me last night to tell me that she got saved at church and asked Jesus to "be in her heart." I literally cried. She is such a doll and I am so proud of her. She turns 4 years old on Monday. She told me that when Parker "comes out" he can get saved too - and I can play with her again.

L to R: Brooke's parents, Nick holding Callie, Brooke with Cameron, my parents

Her 8-month-old sister Callie also brings a huge smile to my face. Just seeing her sweet face and funny expressions can brighten up anyone's day!

Hospital Woes

2010-09-08T14:56:00.001-07:00

I spent Monday night in the hospital with contractions 2-3 minutes apart. Luckily they were able to get everything under control and stop the contractions and ease the pain.

Even though they were just "Braxton Hicks" contractions, I feel like I now have a better idea of just what I'm in for in about 7-8 weeks. And all I can say is I'm in trouble - Oh my goodness! Apparently I was having back labor and it literally felt like someone was stabbing me in the back with a knife. Thank the Lord for pain medication.

Now if we can just keep Baby Parker in the oven for a few more weeks!

Nesting Nut

2010-08-31T14:13:00.000-07:00

The urge to nest has officially kicked in. Today, for instance, I felt the urge to clean and organize my tupperware cabinet(s). It wasn't that I wanted to - I felt like I absolutely HAD to do it. I "had" to find the matching lids and stack everything by size.

In the past few days, I've also organized my pantry, junk drawer, three closets, my cleaning supplies and household goods under the sink, my scrapbook materials, Parker's closet and my basement junk room.

Maybe I should just become a maid or professional organizer. I hope this urge ends soon or Jim gives me a paycheck.

Tupperware containers - before

Tupperware cabinet organized

Pantry

(still needs some work but wow what a difference)

New Wheels

2010-08-29T09:07:00.000-07:00

Jim and I take pride in being fiscally responsible. Or frugal. Hell, we're cheap. I challenge myself to save money and spend less. Half of Parker's furniture and baby goods have been discovered at thrift stores, yard sales (or are hand-me-downs) and I'm perfectly content with that.

But, I'm glad to say that I broke down yesterday and bought a newer car that would better serve my duties as new mom. It's not a giant SUV - like my mother insisted I would need - but it is something more to my size and I was able to pay cash for it! It's a 2006 Honda Accord. I can't wait to take it to my dad for a good wax and detailing!

Here are two pics of my new ride:

Random Thoughts

2010-08-24T06:11:00.000-07:00

My pregnant brain is all over the place. My thoughts wonder day and night. Here are two things that are especially on my mind this morning.

* There is absolutely NO way that a woman could go 9+ months and not know that she is pregnant. She knows!
I’ve been watching the I-didn’t-know-I-was-knocked-up show on TV and want to believe those women, but I just can’t. Not a day goes by that I don’t know for a fact that a living, breathing, kickboxing thing is inside my stomach – aching to come out on most days. People who don’t even know me know I am pregnant because you can literally see my stomach moving and contorting from across the room. It is sick. It is in my dreams each night. That little foot or elbow that is jutting out from my skin haunts me. I feel bad admitting that I am not ooh-ing and aww-ing over the fact that my little guy is doing Yoga in my belly, but I just find it to be bizarre and freaky.

* I am so proud of myself for not freaking out when I see celebrities in person.
The inner me wants to scream and jump up and down and act like a total idiot. In the past three months, Jim and I have seen 3 “celebrities.” Granted, Jim didn’t know who any of them were and looked at me like I was crazy because I spotted them from a mile away and chatted his ear off about them for the rest of the day. This past Sunday, we were cruising through Atlantic Station, when I spotted Vivica Fox! Of course I am screaming in the car and Jim is repeating, “Who? Who?” I had to come home and Google her so he could figure out who she is! But, I didn’t show out and jump out of the car to bum rush her. Hell who am I kidding? I can’t even run anymore with this giant gut in the way.

7 Months Along

2010-08-16T09:30:00.000-07:00

I love getting together with my girlfriends from Griffin, especially now that several of them have babies (or are having babies) and we can talk about pregnancy, babies, kids and everything in between. You can only talk about certain things with your close friends. Sometimes it is just nice to vent.

Michelle, Katie, Hayley and I hosted a baby shower for our friend Julie over the weekend and we had a great time. I can't help but cringe when I see the picture of myself all pregnant and fat. I'm just counting down the weeks (only 11 more to go) before I can start to lose some of this weight.

My Cousin Missy

2010-07-30T15:01:00.000-07:00

Missy

This week, my cousin Missy went on vacation with her brother and his family and passed away in her hotel room. Our entire family is shocked and saddened. She was only 42 years old.

She drove up to the resort in North Carolina from her home in Jacksonville, Fl. They had dinner and spent some time together and she said she was tired and wanted to go to her room and rest for the night. The next morning, when she didn't meet my cousin Foster and his family for breakfast, they went to check on her and found her dead.

The medical examiner told my aunt and uncle that it appears that she died from heart disease. She was cremated and the service was held in Jacksonville yesterday.

What's so bizarre is that her husband also died (almost 3 years ago). They went to sleep and she woke up to find him dead in the bed next to her. I take comfort in knowing that she and her husband are reunited once again.

We never know what tomorrow has in store for us, so don't hesitate to tell your family and friends how you feel about them and don't take life for granted.

CoCo at 7 Months

2010-07-28T12:54:00.000-07:00

Our niece Callie turned 7 months old on July 24th. She is the cutest thing. She has the most pleasant demeanor and is a very happy baby. She loves playing with her big sister Cameron.

Callie Ann

I can't wait for Baby Parker to be here so he can play with his two cousins. I know they are going to love each other & I'm certain that they'll give him a run for his money!

Last Beach Trip Before the Little Guy Arrives

2010-07-28T09:48:00.000-07:00

Jim & I have just returned from our last vacay before Baby Parker gets here. We had a great time in Panama City Beach. The weather was perfect and the water was the prettiest we have seen in many years. We ate, shopped and ate some more.

We love Montego Bay

The view from our condo

I needed Marilyn there with her sneaky self so she could snap pictures of the hilarious people we encountered on our trip. I especially wanted a picture of the reality TV star staying at the same resort as us: Ryan from MTV's 16 and Pregnant. He was pretty quiet and didn't cause a raucous.

Our condo was located directly next door to Spinnaker and we enjoyed the music of The Bellamy Brothers and American Idol's Bo Bice from our balcony.

We are looking forward to our trip next year when Parker will be 8 months old and he can enjoy the ocean for the first time.

Six Months Along

2010-07-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

I'm officially 6 months preggers and the clock is ticking loudly (at least in my head). My hormones have calmed down somewhat and now the heartburn and acid reflux have set in.

My OB looked at me like I was crazy when I told her I felt like I've been chain smoking a pack of menthol cigarettes and taking hot peppermint schnapps shots. That's literally how my throat feels. I hope that means the myth is true and that Baby Parker will have as much hair as Laughing Lolly's gorgeous Baby Aaron!

I finally broke down and bought some Zantac today. I've been so anal about not taking anything during my pregnancy, but there are times that you just have to break down and get some relief.

The summer heat is officially driving me insane and I am looking forward to the cooler weather. Baby Parker is due Nov. 4th but I really hope he comes around Halloween. How fun would dress-up/costume birthday parties be for him?

Pregnancy Hormones. . . Oh the Drama

2010-06-16T14:55:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I have officially nutted up on 3 groups today: The March of Dimes (I love them by the way), Cotton States Insurance and Wachovia. My pregnancy hormones have fully kicked in and I have no filter between my brain and my mouth. My husband, Jim is officially mortified by my behavior.

It all started last week when the phone began ringing four to five times per day from the March of Dimes. I love babies so, therefore, I love the March of Dimes. I contribute to them financially every year. They call repeatedly asking us to mail out their letters to our neighbors. We've politely said no in the past but that doesn't matter to them. After the eleventh call in two days, I answered today and nutted up. I think the calls will stop now.

Then, I tripped out on my insurance co-agent. After calling them three times (on two different days in two different weeks) with no answer, I finally left a message asking if they were still in business, what their hours were and when I could speak with someone. Jim has been friends with our agent since childhood and was appalled by my message. I finally got a call back today and explained to them that I feel that since we have 3 houses and 3 cars with them, I feel like I should get better customer service.

And finally, Wachovia has been calling our house incessantly asking how our experience was at their branch last week, if they can sell us insurance and would we like to sign up for their savings plan. Fine. No and hell no. After a sassy response asking them to quit calling three to four times per day, I hope I solved that problem too.

So, to sum things up, if you haven't experienced pregnancy hormones before - let me say this - you'll be in shock at the little things that will set you off and how quickly you'll let someone know about it.

Jim is just ready for things to return to normal. Will that ever happen?

Smoky Mountain Fun

2010-06-13T08:20:00.000-07:00

Jim's family hosted a family reunion in Knoxville on Saturday and we decided to go up a day early to take in the sights and adventures of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. We had a great time and enjoyed tons of great food!

Jim was so excited to see a Dodge Challenger/Charger car show and made me pose (in all my pregnant glory) in front of several of the cars as he snapped my picture.

The family reunion was fabulous too, especially because Jim has 3 cousins who are expecting babies as well. The reunion turned into a baby shower and we were all treated to gifts!

L to R: Andrea (23 weeks), Me (19 1/2 weeks), Mandy (23 weeks), Rebecca (32 weeks)

And of course, I had to pose with a few of Jim's cousins children. I think that they all believe I am their age because we love to play together and we all have so much fun! They are too cute.

Freebies

2010-06-10T11:03:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist sharing the freebies I got today! I found $2 off coupons in my Sunday paper for Pampers baby wipes and had several of my neighbors clip them for me too. Wal-Mart has them for $1.97 each, so they were free. I got 5 packs of wipes.

I also received a $10 gift in the mail from Kohl's, so I got a 2 pack of bibs and a cute hooded towel for free. I didn't even pay any tax!

Can't beat freebies.

We saw the baby again yesterday during a sonogram at my doctor's office. He's still a boy (glad to have confirmation from the actual doctor and not just a 3d/4d sonogram person) and he is doing great. We've decided to name him Parker James.

It's a Boy!

2010-05-29T15:50:00.000-07:00

3D image/video of Baby Patty: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4rPoZrDS4IU

We are so excited!

Fried Green Tomatoes

2010-05-26T10:41:00.001-07:00

My neighbor grows the best tomatoes and each year he shares both green and red tomatoes with me. This year a homegrown tomato is especially wonderful to me because I am pregnant and craving them every single day!

Last night he came over and gave me 3 tomatoes fresh off the vine. Here's what I cooked up for me and baby Parker.

What the. . .

2010-05-25T13:25:00.001-07:00

Have you ever seen a picture of yourself and wondered what the heck happened? That's how I felt when I laid eyes on this picture on a friend's Facebook page. It was taken at a friend's baby shower about a year and a half ago and I'd never seen it before.

My immediate thought was that someone stretched my rear end out. It looks like I have Kim Kardashian's behind.

So when you see an unflattering picture of yourself, don't freak out. Just get a good laugh out of it and share it on your blog so we can too!

4 Months Preggers

2010-05-17T09:22:00.000-07:00

I'm officially 4 months along now (16 weeks). Only 5 more months to go. Wow! We find out what we are having on June 9th and Jim and I are both very excited and anxious.

And yes, I cut my hair off (more than 6 inches). I told my hair dresser that I am hot and hormonal and this is what we came up with. I miss my ponytail, but it sure is much cooler in this heat. Jim doesn't like it, but I assured him that it will likely grow back quickly with all the prenatal vitamins I am taking.

More pics to come. . .

More of my Favorite Girls

2010-05-13T18:28:00.000-07:00

Cameron and Callie came up for a visit during our Mother's Day cookout on Saturday. They are so stinkin' cute.

They love their uncle Jimbo!

Cameron has predicted that I will have a baby boy. I am officially 15 weeks pregnant! Yeah. She has been right 2 times now, perhaps she will make it 3.

Scary Spring

2010-04-23T14:38:00.000-07:00

This is why I hate working in the yard in early spring.

I stumbled upon this guy (or what is left of him) today while de-weeding my front island. I didn't stick around to see if the rest of him was still attached to this skin. I'm certain my entire neighborhood heard me scream.

Wonder if I can use this as an excuse to make Jimbo work in the yard more?

My Two Favorite Girls

2010-04-13T16:49:00.001-07:00

Cameron, 3.5 and Callie, 3.5 months are my two favorite girls! They bring us so much joy.

Cameron wearing 2 different shoes

Callie playing

Cameron & Callie - Easter

Callie

Hot Mess!

2010-02-28T18:55:00.000-08:00

Every once in a while I get down in a funk - mainly when I discover that all of my clothes don't fit, I have new wrinkles on my face, a random gray hair has popped up and everyone in the world can have a baby but me.

Then, I come across pictures like this one. Whitney Houston - the DIVA of all DIVAS- looking less than diva-licious at the Australian airport. And, somehow, a little smile ends up on my face again.

Thank you Whitney. Now I'll shut-up, just shut-up, shut-up.

Cutie Pie

2010-02-23T08:05:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness, I want this little girl. I hope that the future Baby Patty will be so cute and stylish!

Suri Cruise (at age 4) in all her high-heel-wearin' glory:

Anniversary Fun

2010-02-13T05:45:00.000-08:00

Jim and I celebrated our 5th wedding anniversary yesterday (10 years together) with a special trip to Madison, GA to the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center. I wanted to go see the Andy Warhol collection they have on exhibit. The MMCC has 36 original works from Warhol's Myths and Legends collection on display. Admission is only $3. What a wonderful place!

Here are a few of the works we got to enjoy:

Check out the MMCC at http://www.mmcc-arts.org/

We had such a wonderful time exploring the city of Madison.

Then, we headed back to Loganville and enjoyed a great lunch at Journey's End (used to be owned by the same folks who have the Blue Willow Inn in Social Circle). What a delicious treat so close to home.

We then topped off our anniversary with a little fun in the snow. Loganville received 5 inches of snow yesterday.

Here's to 5 more years of fun and adventure!

Coyote Chaos

2010-01-27T14:32:00.001-08:00

Before the chaos began

A wild coyote, loose from his enclosure, chased us down and bit my 3-year-old niece in the thumb. This may sound like a new movie or a line from an exciting book - but it really happened to us at the Yellow River Game Ranch this morning.

My niece Cameron spent Tuesday night with us and I thought it would be a great idea to take her to the Game Ranch before she went home Wednesday afternoon. We arrived a few minutes early and chatted up the staff before entering with the excitement of seeing wild animals up close and personal. We didn't anticipate the adventure that we would encounter, however.

After feeding the coyotes and making our way towards another exhibit, we spotted a loose coyote making his way near us. Before we knew it, he was right behind us. He wasn't acting strangely, so we threw a cracker his way. That was a mistake. He bit Cameron's thumb and nearly pulled her down by biting her jacket. With her screaming and crying, I threw down the rest of our crackers (4 full sleeves), picked her up and ran with him chasing after us the entire way. He followed us all the way to the entrance door.

After washing, cleaning and sanitizing the wound, Cameron was offered any toy in the store and a sucker. Her thumb is okay and there was no blood, luckily. She'll be checked out by her doctor in McDonough today. But the surprising fact was that the owners told us that "someone broke in last night and let some of the animals out." How were we ever allowed to enter without the animals being secure?

We were so glad to get in the car and go home. Now I can only hope that Cameron's mom and dad will allow her to come visit Aunt La-La and Uncle Jimbo again.

UPDATE: Cameron got her first of 5 rabies shots today. I feel like the worst aunt in the world.

Pants on the Ground

2010-01-16T09:18:00.000-08:00

My husband is in the shower singing, "Pants on the Ground" at this very moment.

I think I am going to scream - if I can quit laughing.

This from the man who hoped that I wouldn't know about the American Idol premier last week and wouldn't "force" him to watch it all year long. So much for that. He's hooked now too.

Favorite Movie Of All Time

2010-01-15T06:20:00.000-08:00

I absolutely love Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. It is my favorite movie ever! I can watch it over and over again and know every line. Sometimes it is fun to have a glass or two of wine and quote lines from the movie. No one else seems to share in my love and passion for this movie (or the movie quotes) however.

Here's the original cast - and what they look like now - 40 years later!

From left to right
•Michael Bollner, or Augustus Gloop, is a tax attorney in Munich.
•Denise Nickerson, or Violet Beauregarde, went on to play a role in Dark Shadows before leaving the biz and becoming an accountant at an engineering plant.
•Paris Themmen, or Mike Teevee, has down a slew of things including commercial casting agent, Disney Imagineer, real estate agent, and autographs-for-sale website owner.
•Julie Dawn Cole, or Veruca Salt, has "a successful career in theater, television, and fitness."
•And finally, Peter Ostrum, or Charlie Buckett. Yes, that's him with the 'stache. He's a large animal vet in upstate New York.

Pics from Our Recent Camping Trip

2010-01-14T14:01:00.002-08:00

We took the camper to Fort Yargo in Winder. It's close to home and very beautiful. The gas heater provided warmth, but it was still a cold night!

We are still loving the camper and I can't wait to take it to even more state parks.

Become a friend of the Georgia state parks. Learn more here:
http://friendsofgastateparks.org/membership.html

Rhetorically Speaking

2010-01-13T15:44:00.000-08:00

Questions on my mind lately . . . .

Will my efforts to earn my masters degree and become a teacher ever pay off?
Will I ever pass the state test?
Will my hard work in making my husband's life easier be recognized and/or appreciated?
Am I serving the Lord the best way I possibly can?
Will I ever retire the old Camry and get a new car?
Will I ever get the nerve to chop off all my hair?
Should I get braces . . . at 28?
Will I ever be a mom?
Will I ever get to live closer to my parents again . . . and pop in for supper or just to visit?
Will my nieces love me as much as I love my aunts?
Is the Wii Fit really beneficial?
Will I ever win an entire world on Super Mario Brothers?

Those are just a few of the things that have been on my mind lately. I hate when my brain doesn't turn off.

Loganville Snow

2010-01-08T11:05:00.000-08:00

We don't get much snow in Georgia, but when we do my inner child comes out and I am ready to play. I made Jimbo drive me around in his 4x4 this morning before he left for work so that I could snap some pics of the light dusting of snow in our neighbhorhood.

Our neighborhood entrance

The road leading into our neighborhood

Our backyard dusted with snow

These pics are featured on my other (neighborhood) blog, http://www.lafayetteridge.blogspot.com/

On a more serious note, I am taking the state (board) test for my masters degree in Athens tomorrow, so say a prayer for me. This isn't my first rodeo with this test (which coveres Medieval, Chinese and Arabic Literature among others), and I need all the help I can get to pass it this time.

Two Thumbs Down

2010-01-04T08:05:00.000-08:00

In my stocking, I received one of the funniest gifts in many years - a Bumpits hair piece. This item looks so great in the video infomercials and on the packaging of the box. I was secretly excited to give it a try in my very-straight, very-fine hair.

I snuck upstairs last night and gave it a try. I quietely returned to the living room to see if Jim noticed anything different. He literally laughed in my face. I looked like a mixture of a cone-head, Elvira and Herman Munster.

I give the Bumpits two thumbs down.

Perhaps it's all in the presentation. . .

Everything Old Is New Again

2010-01-03T13:04:00.000-08:00

When I was in elementary school, my brother and I would sit for hours on end playing Super Mario Brothers on our Nintendo. We'd yell at the TV, throw the remote down and storm off - all to return within minutes and try again.

Now, many years later my 30-year-old husband and I are doing the exact same thing. I gave Jim a Wii for his birthday last year and my parents bought us the New Super Mario Brothers Wii game for Christmas (among others).

New Super Mario Bros. Wii

So many memories are flooding back. . . . But one thing is for sure - I still suck all these years later. Technology has come so far though. Gone are the days of getting the Nintendo books to figure out the cheats and secret levels/codes. The Internet has become my Super Mario Brothers cheating partner.

And, we (I should say I) have been hitting the Wii Fit pretty hard too. Jim thinks it is so funny to watch me shimmy and shake my way through hoola-hoop levels and then complete the step-aerobics. It sure makes for good laughs.

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T17:00:00.001-08:00

Callie Ann Kosko

Our family was blessed with a beautiful baby (niece/grandchild) on Christmas Eve this year. She brings us all so much hope and joy for the new year (especially me on the baby front).

Me with Callie, Cameron and Brooke

Wishing you a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

Biscuit Blunder

2009-12-15T14:39:00.000-08:00

Jim has been on me lately to try my hand at making homemade biscuits. Well, after gathering all of the necessary ingredients (and that took 3 trips to Publix), I got a wild hair today and thought I'd see what I could do.

Let's say I am NO Paula Deen. . . or Rachel Ray. . . or Sandra Lee. . . you get the picture.

Here are my very bitter, mis-shapen, not-quite-hockey-puck southern biscuits.

I did redeem myself with a yummy meatloaf- made with Jim's latest deer.

Practice makes perfect. I guess.

Happy Times

2009-10-24T07:21:00.000-07:00

Isn't it funny how you can be so sad one day and then lay eyes on a beautiful child (namely my 3-year-old niece Cameron) and feel all the clouds float away? Cameron knows how to cheer me up just when I need it.
Her little sister Callie is due December 22nd and I can't wait to meet her too! Here are a few new pictures of our little ball of sunshine.

Cameron loves her Uncle Jimbo

Cameron and her pony

Cameron being silly

Life Lessons

2009-10-10T09:35:00.000-07:00

I thought that getting married and moving away from my family and friends was hard. I’ve struggled for nearly two years to complete my master’s degree and have faced many up-hill battles along the way. Last year, our entire office got laid off.

But earlier this week I lost a baby. I can honestly say that it is the most painful and difficult experience I have ever been through in my 28 years on this earth.

It’s easy to blame God when things don’t go our way. Sometimes he does things that we don’t understand at the time. They hurt too much to grasp the meaning and truly see that they are for the best.

I’ve thought a lot this week about how God could let the Devil be so mean to us. Then I thought about Job and the many struggles that God let him go through. In the end, Job persevered and realized that all the pain he endured didn’t kill him. It only made him stronger.

I hope that I too can find the strength and determination to continue on. I know that God will bless us with a happy and healthy baby when the time is right.

"I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens me." - Philippians 4:13

Taking a Blogger Break

2009-05-29T14:17:00.000-07:00

Jim has started a new business (in addition to his work at AT&T and his lawn care side-job he's had since he as a teenager) and he's put me to good work lately. My blog is suffering and I've decided to take a break for a while.

As far as my education venture goes, I take yet another English test on June 13th (wish me luck) and have to finish my student teaching this fall. After that, I'll start on my specialist/doctorate and hope to find my niche in the classroom.

We are hoping to welcome a baby early next year and I know it will be tough to get back into the workforce, especially in a classroom with 30+ kids.

I'll keep up with everyone's blogs and continue my neighborhood blog, www.lafayetteridge.blogspot.com.

Happy blogging!

How Does Dr. Patty Sound?

2009-05-05T10:17:00.000-07:00

I'm starting to get serious about working on Ph.D. (or Ed.D. in the world of education). I've completed everything for my master's with the exception of my 60 days of student teaching and think that perhaps I should go ahead and pursue my Specialist/Ph.D. after that. I will switch programs and go with either Kaplan or Walden.

I want to be able to pay cash for my doctorate like I did my Master's though, so I know I'll have to save some more money (and sell more stuff on Craigslist) in order to do so.

I promise not to be like some people with Ph.D. degrees who insist on being referred to as "Dr" all the time. I always have been and always will be . . . (just) Lauren.

I'm Going to Be an Aunt Again!

2009-04-14T19:05:00.000-07:00

Yeah! After 10+ months with no luck, my brother and his wife are finally expecting their second bundle of joy - They are going to welcome another child late this year. I am so excited! I hope that we'll get to welcome baby Ian, a boy. But, we'll be just as excited if it is baby Callie, a girl. We just are hoping and praying for a happy, healthy baby. My parents are equally thrilled.

Ki-Ki will make a wonderful big sister!

UPDATE: Baby Ian or Baby Callie is due Dec. 22nd! Everything is looking good and Brooke is doing well. Cameron is so excited about the "baby in Mommy's tummy."

UPDATE #2: Jim and I are not having a baby right now. We are the 1% error rate that the EPT box warns about! We are sad, but we know that we'll have a baby when the time is right.

Blue Willow Inn

2009-04-02T13:08:00.000-07:00

My in-laws, along with Jim's aunt who is visiting from Denver, invited me to a wonderful lunch at the Blue Willow Inn in Social Circle. What a better way to spend a rainy day? This beautiful place is home to one of the yummiest buffet restaurants in North East Georgia (and it's only about 30 minutes from our home). Jim couldn't join us because he is out workin' in the rain.

We enjoyed fried green tomatoes, tons of sweets, and a delicious new creation - pecan and cheese rolls. The front entrance/garden areas are beautiful with several flowering trees, plants, bushes and flowers in full bloom.

Here are a few pictures:

Huh, Say What?

2009-04-01T10:51:00.000-07:00

Saturday's test went as well as possible considering I didn't see the Medieval, Arabic or Chinese Literature questions coming! I studied all of the test preparation materials, which clearly emphasized the importance of poetry, prose, and British Lit. So when I got into the test and was asked about the Pyrrhic Victory and Chinese Lit, I checked my test booklet twice to make sure I was taking the correct test. Unfortunately for me, I was.

I think I did really well on the 2 essay questions and I guess I'll know the results in one month.

And, I've started studying up for the Special Education and Early Childhood Education exams. I looked over the Social Studies/History and PE exams and don't think that's the best route for me (as of yet).

All this to become a teacher who rarely sees respect and is belittled by children! Ah, the irony.

Another Day, Another Test

2009-03-27T14:24:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't posted in a while, but things have been crazy around here as I prepare to take yet another standardized "teacher" test. How many of these do I need to take? Tomorrow I will take a second portion of the Georgia High School English exam (GACE II).

I think that I am going to make friends with the test givers as I set out to take every test possible. I think that I should go back every chance they offer the test (only 4-5 times per year) to take different tests like Social Studies, Special Education, Physical Education and what ever else I think I may be able to pass. I hope that in doing so, I'll have a better chance to get hired on full-time.

The more tests I take and pass, the more areas I'll be certified to teach in. Say a prayer that tomorrow's test goes well. The results don't come back for a solid month. That's torture.

It's Gettin' Hairy

2009-03-13T14:43:00.000-07:00

I never thought I'd see the day when teachers are being laid off. Clayton County and Fayette County are both laying off 150 teachers (or furloughing them) respectively for the upcoming school year. The state's largest district, Gwinnett County (where my hubby attended) is cutting part-time and many parapro positions.

Walton County (where we live) is seeing a $34 million budget shortfall for the upcoming school year and even though they are opening a new high school, they are hoping to cut the number of teachers they'll need by increasing class size. Did I mention that the classroom in which I've been observing has 31 students in first period? There aren't enough desks for everyone to actually sit down.

Pray that there are actual full-time openings available for the many teachers and first-time teachers in the fall.

Ain't too Proud to Beg

2009-03-06T08:59:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I really want to continue on and get my Specialist and Ph.D. But the question is, how on earth will I pay for it?

I didn't realize how fortunate I was to have my undergraduate degree paid for by the HOPE Scholarship until I paid for my own Master's degree. It hurts! I can't imagine paying another $30,000+ for additional degrees. So here's my plan. . . . .

I have emailed Ellen Degeneres (yes the TV talkshow host/comedian) and asked for her help. I don't think it's too crazy of a request! Ha. I told her that I would be happy to set up a Web cam or Skype in and dance, sing or do whatever she requests of me to earn my keep/degree. How funny would that be?

You never know, she may just call me and take me up on my offer! Wouldn't that be wonderful!

Snow Pics, Part 2

2009-03-02T08:47:00.000-08:00

Here are a few new pictures of the snow we received yesterday. We had a blast! My neighbors kids came over to play (they think I am their age I believe) and they built me a snowman.

It's Snowing!

2009-03-01T09:13:00.000-08:00

Yeah! We are finally seeing some snow in the South! Loganville hasn't seen much snow yet, but it is still coming down. I'm a little disappointed that my parent's weren't able to join us for lunch today, but we all agreed that they shouldn't make the 65-mile trip with this weather. Besides, they wanted to stay home and play in it too!

Here are a few pics of our house and yard as the snow is beginning to fall. (Oh and one of me playing in the snow and all bundled up!) . . .

Cross Your Fingers

2009-02-26T10:22:00.000-08:00

Okay, I'm not saying that I am giving up on public school just yet, but today I applied for a Language Arts position with a wonderful local private school in Monroe. I would love to call George Walton Academy my new teaching "home." I've seen some crazy stuff at my local high school and have come to realize that I've really become old-school. (Never thought I'd say that).

GWA is amazing. I know some of the students and several of the parents. I've witnessed the awesome parental involvement first-hand.

Check 'em out - Here's the link - http://gwa.com/

Cross your fingers that I hear something back. The teachers are renewing their contracts next week and the school's administration said they should have an idea about what openings they will have after that.

Weekend in Pictures

2009-02-23T07:16:00.001-08:00

We had a great time at Natalie's party. Glad to see so many old friends.

What Exactly Can I Afford on a Teacher's Salary?

2009-02-19T18:44:00.001-08:00

Everyone asks about how I'll handle the teacher's salary and all I can say is this: It's really increased over the years and is pretty competitive in regards to other jobs that most women take. With that said, I'm already spending like I'm earning the salary of a teacher with a Ph.D. Is that wrong?

My latest purchase comes in the form of new stainless steel appliances. Jimbo and I updated the kitchen with granite countertops and tile backsplash over the summer and the old white appliances really stood out as being outdated. We are still working on installing the new dishwasher. Here are a few pics of the updated kitchen.

La-La Loves Ki-Ki

2009-02-18T13:09:00.000-08:00

I know that all children are special (at least I am trying to tell myself that as I become a teacher). But, I have to share the most special girl (and person) in my life.

My niece Cameron is 2 1/2 years old and she has brought the most joy to my life (and my entire family) in such a short period of time. She calls me La-La and I call her Ki-Ki and we have so much fun together. She's sassy and bossy (just like a typical Kosko) and so full of life.

I love babysitting her and I am so glad that I'll have summers and holidays off so that I can keep spending time with her.

Love is: Family!

What Have I Gotten Myself Into?

2009-02-13T19:50:00.000-08:00

Either I'm older than I thought or I'm just way out of touch, but I'm shocked at what goes down in high schools today. Student teaching has been an adventure and I've still got a long way to go! These kids say things, act certain ways and express themselves in ways I could have never imagined! I may have the best student teaching experience ever - especially if I get to help deliver one student's baby (literally due any day now).

I must be so transparent because the teacher felt the need to explain a few things that stunned me after 4th period yesterday. All I can say is WOW!

I think I've entered the Twilight Zone.

Crossing the Hurdles

2009-02-10T14:22:00.000-08:00

I crossed another hurdle! I passed the GACE II High School English exam and will be able to finish up my masters now! I have taken so many tests lately that my mind is in a fog and I am so excited to have passed this phase in my program.

Now I am looking into starting on my Specialist degree and then I can move onto my Ph.D. My pocketbook is in dire need of help before I can begin on my doctorate though. How funny will Dr. Lauren Patty sound? Love it!

We Survived - Camping 101

2009-02-08T16:03:00.000-08:00

Our camping trip was great. We headed out to Amicalola Falls in Dawsonville yesterday morning and I had enough stuff packed to stay a week instead of one night! Jim laughed at all of my "necessities."

Here are a few highlights of our trip:
1. It took us forever to figure out how to set the 2 beds up on the camper. This camper is 10 years newer than our old one, so we had a lot to learn about everything.

2. I made Jim sleep closest to the door in case someone came in on us (he'd be the 1st person they'd attack). Well, I didn't think about sleeping closest to the window and hearing every little noise all night long. Needless to say, neither one of us got much sleep. I kept imagining Jason (or Freddie) slicing and dicing us through the camper windows.

3. We were camping in the mountains, but still in touch with our inner-tech-geek-selves. Thanks to Jim's iPhone, we were able to look up the rules to Crazy 8's.

4. We had the most wonderful meal (to celebrate our 4th wedding anniversary) at the Smith House in Dahlonega. I ate so much I nearly got sick (literally).

5. I didn't make it all the way up the trail to see the falls. After gorging myself on roast, green beans and 3 helpings of corn bread, I just didn't have it in me to walk all the way up to the top.

Here are a few pics from our adventure.

Adventures in. . . Camping

2009-02-06T12:01:00.001-08:00

Jim and I got a new pop-up camper and we are going to take "her" out this weekend for a mini camping trip. We've gone once before in our old camper, but this one actually has heating and air. I hope the weather is nice.

I think we are going to head up around Dawsonville and I hope to get some Outlet Mall therapy shopping in. Does that take away from the whole camping idea? I think I deserve it after finishing my classes and earning only one B out of 12 classes! Now if I could just get him to pay for something . . . .

I'll post some pics of our camping adventure when we return.

My First Post

2009-02-05T11:03:00.001-08:00

I decided to create this blog in order to chronicle the challenges, excitement and adventure of becoming a first-time teacher. After five+ years of marketing and public relations, I decided to enter graduate school and pursue a masters in secondary education degree.

During the past year, I have taken 12 classes and have to complete my student teaching in order to finish up my degree. Working on my masters degree has been a wonderfully challening experience. I doubled up on my classes and am so pleased that it took me less than one year to finish all of my actual coursework.

Loganville High School will serve as the setting for my Adventures in Babysitting (as I like to think of it). 11th and 12th grade English to be exact. I pray that these 17 and 18-year-old kids aren't the spawns of Satan and that we will have a wonderful relationship in the classroom. I have a feeling that I'm going to have my first mugshot taken after this adventure.