Tornado Warning

So, we're experiencing true midwestern weather this evening. We've actually had a few odd days like this since we've lived here - sunny and warm weather that's turned into thunder storms. The tornado warnings have always been in surrounding counties, though. Tonight we've had a watch, then a warning, then a watch. There's been hail, wind, heavy rain, thunder, and tremendous lightening. We're doing fine, but it's definitely an adventure!

Shut Up and Sing

I created this blog to share news about my family, but I'm going to do an extremely rare self-indulgent post. Pregnancy has made me react with more depth of emotion to what I read, listen to, and watch lately. While Ella napped this afternoon, I turned on the tv and tuned into the documentary "Shut Up and Sing" while folding laundry. Ella woke up toward the end and as I watched her dance to the Dixie Chicks' music and listened to their words, I felt incredibly emotional. I greatly admire their strength, their ability to move ahead in spite of fear, and their willingness to speak up for what they believe in and stand behind each other in spite of everything. When I looked at Ella, I wanted these things for her and mourned a bit for some of the loss of them in myself. I know many people can't even hear the name "Dixie Chicks" without wanting to scream, but I want my daughter to have many of the qualities I admire in them - to stand up for her beliefs and stand behind her words despite public sentiment. Most of all, I want Ella to let her conscience guide her. And as I contemplate my fears around the potential controversy of this posting amongst some of my family and friends, I wish more of those qualities for myself as well.

Baby Farmer

Now that I've hit my 12 week mark, I wanted to officially share our news here with family and friends. We're expecting a new baby on December 9th. Everything is going well with the baby - I just heard the heartbeat today. I've been much sicker this time around, but just received the good news that I am not (yet) a gestational diabetic like I was last time. Between my not feeling well and Tim's crazy work schedule lately, it's been difficult to find time to blog. Hopefully, I'll catch up soon and post some new pictures.

I Love My Daddy!

Ella really wanted to hang out with Tim, so he carried her on his back while he mowed the lawn. She loved the ride for about 10 minutes, then she was done.

There's nothing like a snuggle with Dad when you're sick!

Tim dressed Ella and was serious about this combo!

Lately, Tim has traveled quite a bit. He was gone 8 days in the past 2 weeks - 5 one week, 3 the next. Ella gets so excited when he comes home and just follows him around. The other day, he came home from running an errand, Ella heard him in the garage and turned to me saying, "Oh! Daddy! Oh!" I'm a bit jealous of her adoration (Can you say "mommy" when you don't need something?) but I totally get it, so I can't really blame her. I just wanted to share a few cute Daddy/daughter pictures from the past month.