Just Call Him Oliver

I am obsessed with anything to do with theater and this morning my precious Trenton was Oliver. The entire morning I kept repeating to myself "Please Sir, I want some more". I was that Mom - the Mom I tried to not be. Here is how the morning played out...

I had a meeting at work at 8:15, so I got up early, got every one ready and was so proud of myself for thinking ahead and packing Trenton's bag last night. I get to daycare, get everything out of his bag and there is NO food. HMMM...I thought I did this last night. So, I tell daycare I will either go get food or call Wes to bring it when someone comes in. I go back to my car to call wes, but uh oh, I forgot my cell phone! So, home I go - I can't take chances that Wes can't do it and Trenton has no food. So, home I go, grab my phone, grab the food, acknowledge the ever so needy dog, and back to daycare I run.

I go in and my poor confused child thinks I am there to pick him up - meltdown ensues. Feeling guilty, I leave my child with the sweet workers and pretend to make him happy with a juice cup. Right, that is what he wanted.

Get in my car, call Wes - he remembers me talking about food, but not actually putting food in his bag. I seriously believe I am going crazy. There is no other explanation. I am a lunatic. I am early, but not prepared...this isn't me!

So, at 8:14 I pull into work - 8:15, still not meeting. 8:30 we get a call, the meeting was changed, but they forgot to tell those involved. Cool.

At least my child has food, I am at work (in one piece) and today is Friday. Whew!

But, I have to post a picture of Trenton - and he is finally starting to sit up!!! Wes sent me this while I was in Nashville. Trenton is at his MeMe and Pop's house and he is such a BIG BOY!

Suntans & Pasty People

I have blogged multiple times about being in a wedding in October. Well, October is an awkward month. It is a beautiful month, fall colors, cooler weather, and Kylene's wedding. However, how does one dress? I am in the process of figuring out outfits for all the events and I am not sure what dictates appropriate dress for a classy function in October. I can always wear something and throw a shrug over it, but I am trying to be the "hot mama" that I am. :)

All clothing aside, last night I decided I would take it upon myself to try and spray tan. I have been to one of those intimidating beds that sucks the life out of you with its cold, intense spray and I left there splotchy as well as emotionally and mentally scarred. So, I told Wes I was going to do it myself. I have never really been bothered by my pasty skin, but apparently Wes has. When we met I was super tan (and skinny) and I have morphed into this super pasty (and not so skinny) person. He still loves me - just reminds me of my tanner days.

So, this experiment was not only to make Wes happy but also to see if I could make myself not look like Casper for the wedding. Last night I took a shower and went to my "well ventilated area" and started spraying. I had a lot of reservations - I know it sticks to knees more because of the dry skin and I know it can be thicker in the areas where you start spraying, so I put a lot of thought into my spraying process.

We went to sleep and I should have woken up super bronze - even and tan. I only sprayed my legs because I don't want to screw up where I cannot cover up. Well, I went to bed dreaming of my new tan and woke up to the reality of my legs.

Clearly I have a lot to learn about the ankle area and the knee area, but minus those GLARING mistakes, I am overall pleased with the color. If I can master the technique I will be doing well; however, I am just glad that the wedding is not about me at all and it is still over a month away!

Are you there God, It's Me Sara

I know most of you have to remember Judy Blume's book Are You There God, It's Me Margaret. I remember that book from when I was in Middle School. That book helps adolescent girls in so many ways - I mean, that time of life is hard, awkward, demanding, confusing, the list could go on.

Well, I am 26 now and I have made it through all (ha! most) of the issues related to adolescence, but I am waiting on the next installment of Judy Blume's book. Is there a novel about making it through your first few years of marriage, your first baby, and dealing with the pressures of school, work, and the economy? Or maybe Mrs. Blume doesn't know how to best deal with the reality of life outside of middle school. I am not insulting her, but it is hard to write a book that is able to relate to many different personalities during the 'transitional' time in your life.

I am not saying this as a woe is me, I deserve so much more type of blog - it is more of a when did life become so real blog. See, this all started when I decided I wanted to be a stay at home mom; however, that isn't possible, so I work. Now, Wes works super hard and I am not slighting him in the least, but if I could be a full time student/SAHM I would be set. I would still graduate and search for a job, but I would love to be with Trenton.

This weekend did teach me one huge lesson (besides I want to be a SAHM) and that was to just let it go. This SAHM thing is great, but I can't worry about it, it isn't up to me. In talking to Wes yesterday I told him that being in Nashville and seeing how much joy was in the room and how happy every one was - I decided I would quit worrying. We are not destitute, we are not struggling, we are doing well. We have jobs, we have a healthy (for the most part) child - with the best attitude ever and I am the Mom to a great child and a wife to a wonderful husband.

My new outlook is to not worry - or at least try, but how hard is it to let go of everything? To truly trust God to know what is best. If it is in the cards for me, I will be a stay at home mom, but maybe not. I do not know what the future holds, but I know I am missing out on life by worrying all the time and trying to be in control, so hold me accountable. I will slip and I will fall, but I am going to do my best to stay on track and focus on my family and the things that matter most. Everything else will fall into place.

In the meantime, if you read my blog Judy Blume, I am still waiting for the sequel to your classic book. Maybe it is out there and I know nothing of it - help a girl out!

Sweet Shelby

I am not going to post a lot about the weekend because this is Ansley's story to tell. But, I am one excited Aunt. :) She is a beautiful baby girl and I will be back up there in 3 weeks, so I will have more pictures then. Love you, Shelby!

Dear Three,

Sorry this letter doesn't have your name and is early, but I am afraid my travel plans will prohibit me from blogging prior to your arrival. See your parents have not shared your name with the rest of the world and you have many nicknames, but Three has become my favorite.

It is Thursday and you are scheduled to be here on Saturday and I CANNOT WAIT! See, you have an almost 10 month old cousin, Trenton and I am SO excited for him to have a play mate in the family! (Between you and me, you will probably be able to tell him what to do).

I know you have a lot to learn and I don't want to overwhelm you, but know that you are truly loved by this family. Your parents have be praying about you and for you for a long time now. You are a precious gift from God and I am confident that you are going to some of the most loving and deserving parents.

Some fun facts about your family:

1. Your dad is basically famous, but truly a caring, considerate, patient, and loving man. He will always be the man behind the camera - your Mom is big on pictures - and your Dad is really good at taking them.
2. Your mom is famous too, but by association; however, she is also a caring, considerate, not always patient - but will be with you - and loving woman.
3. I can only speak for my side of the family, but it is pretty intense. There is never really a dull moment. Your Noni (name still pending, so feel free to make suggestions) is still adjusting to life as a grandparent and sometimes she gets really worried. Your Sir (name decided) is not quite as worried (on the outside) as your Noni, but he will be the weird one.
4. When you are not sure what to do, just smile. It has worked so far for Trenton.
5. Your Mommy is a planner, so make sure you have your instructions down. :) I most look forward to seeing how this changes her way of dealing with kinks in a plan - you will be excused and she will love you for it.
6. Beaty is small and needy, but she has been through a lot. Be patient with her, but don't imitate a dog barking because that sets her off. Oh, I learned last night she cannot have flour, wheat, calcium, OR any toy that is stuffed or makes noise - you will have the most fun with her. :)
7. Your family (both sides) is full of sarcasm, so you better come prepared! We all hate that a lot of us live 6 hours away, but I assure you, you will still be spoiled beyond measure.
8. MOST IMPORTANTLY, I am not the only Aunt, but know that I am here for you whatever/whenever you need. You are my precious little niece and I cannot wait to welcome you into this world. You will meet Trenton and Uncle in September. Oh, while the verdict is still out on what to call Noni, I liked your Mom's idea of calling me Sadie. Sir called me that when I was a little girl and I would love for you to do it as well.

We Love you, Three!
Wes, Sadie, Trenton, and Baxter!

Happy Birthday Ansley!

I had every intention of doing this on the correct day (August 15th) but that didn't happen. Sorry, Ansley. You will soon be a new Mom and you will realize how quickly time escapes you. Even though you are such a planner. I cannot wait for Three to arrive and I am going to do my best to be there, but this day - I tried to make all about Ansley. I ruined it when I kept asking her what size clothes to buy three, but you know, I tried.

I hope you had a great birthday. I cannot wait to come up to Nashville in September so Three and Trenton can meet and so we can officially be moms together. You are going to be an amazing Mother - I speak from experience - we played house every day when we were little.

I love your humor and how infectious it can be. My favorite memories are when we get going and then Mom and Dad join in - there is never a dull moment.

I love that you were there for me throughout all of school and hopefully (although in different states) our children will be too.

You are so caring and considerate. You think of things way in advance (something I partially attribute to your Type A personality) and you never fail at making me feel included or special - even though we are 6 hours apart.

I am sad I couldn't be there for your birthday, but I am so glad Katy was able to be there.

Next year will be the big 3-0 and big 1 for three! I cannot wait to come up and visit so our children can meet. So, there is nothing left to say but....

We love you!

Because it's Wednesday!

Yesterday was supposed to be the day of surgery, but it wasn't. Trenton supposedly had bronchitis, but I am officially saying he doesn't! I think Trenton's main reason for spiking a fever was because he is cutting his top teeth. I am telling you that in a matter of 2 hours we went through 2 bibs because they are soaked. Gross! Bless his precious heart. So, we are going to try and get a clean bill of health so we can get Trenton into surgery sooner vs. later.

However, my precious family sent Trenton gifts and get well cards since he was supposed to be having surgery. Aunt Nana sent him a book - that he loved especially since it came with little peek a boo flaps that he found perfect for chewing. Like any child, his favorite part of the gift was the card.

The card was fuzzy like the bear on the front of it and Trenton loved playing it with. So, sick he had a rough time. Then, the mail came and there was a package from his Aunt Ansley - who is VERY pregnant and couldn't be here (even if she had time off) so she sent a package. I didn't get to see it when it arrived, but from what Ansley told me it was interesting. Ansley and Adam sent Trenton a cell phone and keys. The keys had a remote control on it to open your door far away, but the noises were a door bell and a horn, things like that. Trenton LOVED it. Baxter was not a fan of the doorbell noise, but he made it through. Ansley tried to find a remote because that is Trenton's favorite, but this was just as good because it has buttons and fits in his mouth.

I came home from work to find Trenton surrounded by all of his new toys and books and immediately had a discussion with him about how he is not receiving all of these gifts because he skipped school or because it was Wednesday. I told him that later on he will have to have surgery and he will not receive the presents, but we will take them with us to the hospital. My poor child is going to associate skipping school with new stuff. However, we appreciate all the love and support and will keep you posted on the surgery date.

***Note - we do take Trenton out of the jumparoo, but that seems to be where he was for all the pictures. The good news is that he loves the Jumparoo. ***

Delay in Surgery

Trenton is not having surgery today. Instead, he decided to get a little sick and run a fever. We took him to his pediatrician and they said he has bronchitis....I am not sure if that is the case, but the fever makes it so he cannot have surgery. We will reschedule it after he receives a clean bill of health.

Currently we are looking at our week of vacation.

Thank you for the prayers. We will continue to keep you posted.

Faith

God never gives you more than you can handle - I believe this with all of my heart. Every person has experienced hardships in their life and I truly believe (now more than ever) in the power of prayer.

But, just like any sinner, my faith is constantly tested. What is bringing all of this about is Trenton's surgery. Now, I know he will be fine and the doctors at MCG have not let us down yet, but as a Mom (at least my experience) there is not a limit to the amount you worry. I know I am supposed to be anxious for nothing, but this is at least the 7th time my child has been put to sleep. That is almost a time for every month of life...that is stressful. Trenton has been through a lot and as a mother you can't help but wonder if you could have done something different. It was luck of the draw (ha!) was born with a TE Fistula. The dilatations had to happen, the breathing tests had to happen, every surgery has not been frivolous.

Wednesday Trenton will have another surgery. This one on his kidney. I know it is needed. My child has already lost 5% functionality in his kidney, but there is still a tinge of "is this really necessary?" "hasn't my child been through enough?" However, it is not my place to decide when enough is enough. God has looked out for my child from day 1 and he will continue to look out for Trenton.

Trenton is surrounded by prayer not only from family and friends, but even those people who have not met him. In fact, during my maternity leave my Mom went to lunch and people she didn't know recognized her as Trenton's grandmother and asked about him. All of this is amazing and overwhelming. How do I give back for such generosity? Everyone tells me to call if I need anything and I am the most stubborn person, so I never do. Thankfully, I have never really needed anything - just a healthy, happy baby.

What brought all this about this particular morning was Trenton's MASSIVE hissy fit he threw. He went to sleep early last night and slept through a meal. Well, he was not having his diaper changed before he ate, so he started kicking his legs and screaming and all I could do was laugh. Does that make me a bad mom? Yes, I am encouraging bad behavior, but it made him stop. He just looked at me with that red face and laughed too. That moment I realized just how much I love this child and would LOVE to take all of the troubles away. Trenton didn't do anything to deserve any of this, but I will never understand why he had to go through everything.

Wes and I have learned a lot and been challenged, but the challenges are no where near over. All we can do is humble ourselves to our situation and pray. So, thank you to the many people who have embraced my child like their own. He is an amazing, precious gift and I cannot imagine my life without him.

We ask again for your prayer and support as Trenton undergoes what will hopefully be his last procedure. Surgery is Wednesday - I don't yet know the time - but it lasts 4 hours, so we will keep you posted. Please be patient though, my sister is very pregnant and naturally has her own child to take care of - it is still hard work when you are pregnant - so she may not be as able to update the blog.

PS - he is trying to start to crawl! :)

Thank you all for your prayers - The Ellis Family

Sarabeth

I always know how long someone has known me based on what they call me. My parents named me Sara Elizabeth (a lot of thought went into that) and when I started school I honestly think every girl in the class was Sara, so I decided I would be called Sarabeth. Now, Sarabeth lasted for a while until I decided I was too cool for a double name, so back to Sara I went. So, people who have known me since I was little still call me Sarabeth while those who are newer in my life call me Sara. I answer to any of them; however, I most enjoy it when my Aunt Donna says it - she is the only one who can turn any word into 3-4 syllables. :)

Anyway, yesterday we received an incredibly generous gift in the mail from a family that knows me as Sarabeth. I would love to shout their praises all over and give them credit on this blog, but I know they are not that kind of family. See, they never do things for the praise, they do it because they care and they want to. I have probably given the man in this family a run for his money because I am "mouthy" - I don't know when to shut up and I don't keep my opinions to myself. I am up for any argument and he isn't used to this, but along the line we have developed this odd way of communicating. This family was there not only throughout my childhood but also through any family problems we had, they were the constant. When Trenton was born they were there for anything I needed. Well, yesterday they brought tears to my eyes and my husbands with their generosity. They are the kind of people that would give you the shirt off their back even if it were the only one they had. I think what touched me even more than the gift was thinking back on all they have done for my family. So, if they read this blog, they know who they are, thank you. Wes and I are truly blessed and honored to call you friends and we could not tell you enough how much we appreciate everything you have done.

What is even more amazing is the amount that everyone has done for my family.Trenton will celebrate his 1 year birthday soon and I seriously will have to invite half of North Augusta under the condition that NO presents be purchased!

Thank you to this amazing family and to every one who has helped us in some way - no matter the gift. Trenton has been a blessing to our family and we could not have made it through without the generosity of every one. Please continue to pray for our little man because this time next week he will be in the hospital recovering from his surgery.

We love you all!

My Little Houdini

This morning was interesting in the Ellis household. Wes woke up (like normal), then Trenton starts crying, so up I go to get him and start the morning routine. I walk into his nursery and there he is in all his glory.

My precious child has learned to take his diaper off. I have no idea when he decided to do this last night, but he did it. I walk in to a soaked child, soaked bedding, soaked stuffed animals, but thankfully, the remote control that he is playing with is okay! Whew!

I get him out of the bed and cleaned off. Not only has my child taken it off, he has it wrapped all around his leg and it is stuck. I am surprised there is still ciruculation. We go downstairs I feed Trenton and Wes changes the sheets.

From now on Trenton will go to bed iwth shorts on and duct tape around his diaper.

This past weekend was a big one for the Ellis Family. Wes and I are proud to annouce that we bought a new car. As you have read we have to get rid of his truck. This was heartbreak for my husband. Wes waited until we were financially ready to purchase his new truck. We were confident in our decision and he was so happy to drive off the lot in his GMC Sierra. Well, life throws curves...Wes came back to Augusta to work, I left a job in order to move to Columbia only to have to find a job in Augusta again. Fortunately, I found a great job with a great company, but the pay is a little less than I was making. Then, SURPRISE! We found out we were having Trenton. So, life gets messy and expensive. Wes's truck (unfortunately) was the first thing to go.

Saturday we dropped Trenton off at MeMe and Pop's and we went to CarMax to see what they would give Wes for his truck. A brief 30 minute trip turns into 4 hours later. Thankfully we had enough forethought to drop Trenton off...it was a HOT, LONG process. We drove a Chevy Trailblazer, Nissan Altima, and finally Wes decided on......

A VW Passat..not at all what I thought he would purchase, but this was all his decision. Wes loves his little giddy-up and go car. Who would have ever thought that my 6'4" husband would buy a car, but as long as he is happy, I am happy. I was on my best behavior during this process. I said nothing and let him make the decision. I didn't even drive it! However, it is in the shop right now because the check engine light came on, so the sale is not final yet.

What makes me even happier is this motivated us both to clean out our garage so we both can park in it now! YAY! (all of Hammond Drive is excited about this too!)

Another exciting thing is Trenton is 9 Months Old. Technically, yesterday was his 9 month b'day, but we were a little short-staffed, so I didn't have time to even think about blogging. We had a mini photo shoot the other night to celebrate....

So, Happy 9 Month Birthday, Trenton! I cannot believe how much you have grown! And now my precious child has found the motivation needed to roll over...a remote control! :)