The Luckey Family

.15.16.17.&.18.months.

2010-12-21T16:05:00.000-06:00

So I’m a little too busy to be blogging these days… sorry! Things are just beyond hectic, especially with the holidays here now.

The last few months my girl has grown in the blink of an eye! She is a full blown toddler now. I barely see any “baby” left in her; although, she will ALWAYS by my baby girl! In my last post she was learning to talk and she has advanced in her talking, but has refrained from being quiet as vocal these days. She can say words, but doesn’t say them as often as she use to. Around 15 months she learned to say her name. I really, really worked with her to say her name. I wanted people to be able to ask her name and she respond. Well…. I got my wish! And “Abby” was the only word we heard around my house for a while. She would walk around saying “Abby, Abby, Abby” over and over again. It’s really cute!! Even all of her classmates at school said “Abby” all day long! The parents ask the teachers… “which one is Abby?” Ha ha! My girl is literally full of herself. ;) The newest words are “more” and “please.” It’s SO cute when she says them!!

But as she has gotten older she has started paying attention to other things and her talking has slowed down. She has REALLY started watching more tv the last few months. She LOVES the SPROUT channel. This includes Sesame Street, which is her favorite! In the last few weeks, she has really taken to Caillou and the Wiggles. She will be on the other side of the house and hear the theme song for Caillou come on and she runs in there to watch. She will also dance to every Wiggles song when it comes on. Which brings us to our next newest thing… dancing! She has really started dancing these days. Any song can come on and she will start dancing. This includes cell phone ring tones! :)

She is still a good eater, but she has gotten really picky! She use to eat macaroni and cheese like crazy! Now, she will not even touch a noodle. She also will not eat French fries, ice cream, or anything cold. Her favorite thing to eat is grilled cheese sandwiches and cheet-o’s! We try to limit these to once a week or special occasions. And she prefers her green beans to French fries ANY day! Thank goodness!

She still likes to read books – but not as much. These days, SHE wants to read the books on her terms. That means she turns the page in the book whether you have finished reading the page or not. She has also learned different body parts. She can point to her nose, eyes, ears, mouth, teeth, belly button, hair, fingers, and toes. We are learning our animals too. She knows the cow says “moo” but will only tell you that sometimes. She can also point out any Sesame Street character in a book. When I noticed she was doing this, I told myself…. I should really be teaching her more useful knowledge. So for Christmas we will be getting things to learn our alphabet and numbers.

Since our last post, we have had Abby’s second trip to the fair, second Halloween and second Thanksgiving. She LOVED them all! At the fair, we didn’t ride any rides. Mainly because it was SO expensive and also because she just isn’t old enough yet. She was a bumble bee for Halloween and the CUTEST one ever!! She LOVED trick or treating. We walked around Jennifer’s neighborhood and she had the BEST time! She got the hang of trick-or-treating pretty quick! And wouldn’t DARE let you take her bucket of candy! She worked hard for it! We are now getting ready for her second Christmas! I cannot believe time is flying by so fast! I want it to slow down so incredibly bad!!! While every day gets better and more fun with my Abby Grace, I miss my little newborn baby!!

Abby is SO full of life! She has the happiest little spirit. I am really trying to teach her to be a good, sweet person. We are learning a lot about sharing – thanks to day care and cousin Emily. But my baby is definitely like her mama. She has got an attitude like you wouldn’t believe!! Ha ha! I know I was a difficult child growing up. I threw tantrums left and right. I gave my mama a really hard time. I don’t know why I was like that, but I remember the feelings that would come over me when I would get upset and act horrible! Well…. I’m getting SUCH payback now. If my mama were here she would be laughing so hard. Abby acts JUST like I use to and it’s so weird because I feel how she is feeling because I use to do the same thing. She kicks and screams, stiffens up, then turns to a noodle…. Only because I said “no.” Oh well. I’d like to think we would be growing out of this stage soon, but I don’t think so. But that’s okay. That’s just my Abby Grace. And she doesn’t do it too often.

Bo is about to start his FINAL SEMESTER OF LAW SCHOOL!!!!!!!! He has two more final exams to take this week and he will start the last semester in January. I never thought this time would come!! While it’s been a long 2.5 years of law school, it’s also gone by fast at the same time because we have Abby. Bo and I also just recently took our first trip ALONE since our honeymoon 4 years ago!! We were both DYING to get away so we last minute planned a trip to Universal Studio’s in Orlando. Bo had never been and it has been YEARS since I had been. We only stayed 3 nights and that was just enough. Jennifer kept Abby for me and it was truly a blessing! Abby loves staying at her Aunt Jenn’s house. It’s so nice to have peace about her having somewhere else to stay. I never thought I would have that since mama isn’t here, but I do. I didn’t think I would make it a night without her, but I did. I was so ready to see her when we got back though!!

All in all, this is a brief update of what we have been doing. I don’t even have time to go through the million pictures I have taken, but you can see most of them via facebook by clicking HERE!

.13.and.14.months.

2010-09-01T11:54:00.007-05:00

WOW! We made it past 12 months!! At first her first birthday seemed SO far away, but it then came out of no where! Now, my girl is 14 months old and is truly a little toddler. I am so very sad to see my little baby grow so fast, but I am so very happy that she is healthy and growing!

She started walking exactly a week after her first birthday (June 24th). She had been trying to take steps for a few weeks before. She would work on her balance and want to take that step so bad, but she would “chicken out.” Then she would nearly leap into your lap!! As she would stand, get her balance she would then almost jump to you! She wanted to do it so bad and never gave up. It was SUCH a fun experience helping her learn to walk. But she finally mastered the steps on her own at her Aunt Jenn’s house. It’s extremely bittersweet.

She is really trying to talk more and more each day. She’s got “da-da” down pat! She is even saying “ma-ma” now too. It is the SWEETEST thing I have ever heard!!!! It totally melted my heart one day when I picked her up from day care. She stood at my feet, grabbing my legs, saying “ma-ma, ma-ma!” I will NEVER forget that!! Now she does it more and more and it gets sweeter every time. But she will ONLY call for mama when she wants something. :) She will say "ball" and "bow" (as in hair bow). She will even point to her belly button if you ask her to, as well as her hair.

With that said, we have also switched day cares! This was SO hard for me! It was definitely harder on me than Abby. We had gotten to know and LOVE the people at her old day care that it was hard to let go. But I knew in my heart that it was a MUST! See, the daycare she was at did not have a good “set up” in my opinion once you left the nursery (after they turned a year old). The rooms where separate by petitions and there were doors EVERYWHERE! Including a door to the outside RIGHT in her room. It just didn’t set well with me. So I had been on the list at a new daycare for a while. However, I didn’t want to change until she was out of the nursery. The old daycare has the BEST nursery around in my opinion! I even like their nursery better than our new daycare’s. But I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the new daycare from the age of 1 on up! So we have been at the daycare for right at a month now and it’s FABULOUS!!! And it’s closer to the house!

I also spent the night away from my baby girl for the first time. I really wanted to wait until she was a year old before I left her over night so I did. She stayed at her Aunt Jenn and Uncle Mike’s house while Bo and I had dinner with our good friends Adam and LeAnn. I had somewhat planned to go pick her up after dinner but had also planned for her to stay the night just in case she got tired and we were not finished eating. And that’s what happened! She did FABULOUS!! And we enjoyed some time out with friends. It really helped to know that she was okay spending the night away. She absolutely LOVES seeing the Hobson’s!! Especially her Aunt Jenn!! :)

She is eating pretty much ANYTHING these days! She absolutely LOVES milk!! I try to only give her 3 (sometimes 4) sippy’s of milk a day. She drinks juice with her snacks. She LOVES to eat and is one amazing eater! We’ve never had problems with food – other than my fear of her choking to death! We’ve only been sick once in the last two months with a little stomach bug. She had extremely bad diarrhea, which led to EXTREMELY bad diaper rash!! Now, she has a little cold but nothing major.

She LOVES to read all of her books!! Reading has also become part of our nighttime routine. After bath time, we get her in her jammies, and then we read a few quick books. I then put her in HER bed and she eventually drifts off to sleep. It’s pretty sad for me because she will not let me hold her and rock her. She is not a snuggler at all, which hurts my heart. However, I am glad she is Miss Independent went it comes to most things. She does like to sit in my lap and ready books to her. She likes to point at things in the book and “say” what they are. She hasn’t mastered how to say most things she points at, but she is getting better.

We just finished up swimming lessons for the year. She has officially completed the Water Babies I class. She L-O-V-E-D it! I am so glad we did it! While she will probably not remember what she learned, it was a great experience, which was the only reason we did it. We are going to pick up with swimming lessons again next summer. And then I plan on enrolling her in dance next fall!! I cannot WAIT!! :)

Other than that, not much else is happening. We are getting ready for fall, including Emily’s FIRST BIRTHDAY!!! Jenn and I have made the girls matching outfits for the fall and we are working on Halloween outfits! I just LOVE this time of year and cannot wait to get my girl all deck out! Bo has started his FINAL year of law school THANK GOODNESS!! I didn’t think this year would ever get here!! It seems like yesterday he was quitting his job at Brandon and enrolling in school. Now, two years later he’s back at Brandon with a one year old!! My how life has changed!!

It’s also getting to the time of year that brings back the WORST memories of my entire life. It was two years ago that mama was in the fight of her life! Little did I know I was losing her right before my very eyes! I look back thinking how stupid I was not realizing what was happening. However, I firmly believe that it was a blessing not knowing what was happening. I would have been a mess and wouldn’t have been as strong for her. At this point two years ago, she had already been in and out of the hospital once. She was about to go into the hospital for the second, and last time. She never came home. :( This time of year is my favorite, but also brings back the worst memories of my life! Thankfully we have these baby girls to brighten our dark days. I truly believe in my heart these girls are here for that reason.

I've only got a few pictures here with me at work. (Yea, posting a blog during lunch b/c it's the only time I have!)

You can keep up with most of my pics in my facebook album.

.11.and.12.months

2010-08-04T21:42:00.059-05:00

Sorry it's been so long since the last post! Things have obviously been a little too busy around here. We aren't slowing down either! My Abby Grace is over 13 months old now, but I am going to catch everyone up on the past 2 months.

Since our last post Abby has done a TREMENDOUS amount of new things! We finally got on whole milk right before she turned 11 months old. After starting table food a little before 10 months, we have now gone ALL table food. She pretty much eats anything I eat. Of course at day care she gets pizza and BBQ sandwiches, but I am still pretty terrified of the choking so she gets mushy stuff when she is with me. If it's not mushy it is cut into the tiniest pieces you can imagine. :)

We are also in her big girl car seat too. We are still facing backwards and will do this as long as possible. Our doctor told us this is much safer because research now states that just because they are a year old doesn't mean you turn their seat forward. So we will play it safe and face backwards as long as we can - hopefully till she is two!

We have also started swimming lessons at Maley's swim school. We are taking them with cousin Emily and they are both having a blast!! Abby absolutely LOVES the water and she just cannot get enough of it! She has done so good with swimming and I couldn't be more proud of her!! We take this once a week on Monday nights and these will last through the summer. We are so thankful that we get to do this as a family - as we sometimes don't get too much time together. Bo and I will rotate on who gets in the water with her. She is a little hard to handle in the water because she gets so excited so it's easier for her daddy to get in with her. :)

I also had my first Mother's Day with my baby girl!! Abby and Maggie got me the sweetest little card!! :) My big present was my new back patio - which I LOVE!!!!! This Mother's Day took on a whole new meaning. I just never knew how my mama TRULY felt about me until now. You never understand a mother's love until you become a mother. It is unfortunate that I never got to experience this feeling while my mama was still here. I'd give anything to be able to share this experience with her!!!

Abby also went on her SECOND family vacation to Destin, Florida!! This is our annual family beach vacation. The last time we went Abby was only 8 weeks old and couldn't enjoy herself. But this year she had a pretty good time. She had a slight ear infection while we were there so she wasn't in the best of moods. But overall she had a good time. She LOVED swimming in the pool and watching the waves in the ocean. Wasn't too fond of the sand this year - maybe next time!

A week after Abby turned eleven months old she stood by herself without holding anything. After she mastered the balance thing you could tell she REALLY wanted to walk. She was very cautious when balancing. I guess she just didn't want to fall.

A few days before Abby's first birthday, she transfered to the Toddler Room at her daycare. This was a very hard transition for her. She cried pretty bad every single morning we would go to drop her off. She would be a little fussy during the day too. In the Toddler Room they nap on little mats on the floor instead of the crib, which Abby had NEVER done before. BIG ADJUSTMENT! The first few days should wouldn't nap very well - if at all. This made for fussy girl!! After about a week and half she got the hang of it and really enjoys the toddler room and LOVES her teachers!!

Abby has a total of six teeth in her little mouth!! Speaking of teeth. . . About a week after going into the Toddler Room at daycare, I went to pick her up from daycare as I normally do after work only to get there and fine a huge bite mark on my baby girl's FACE!!! Talk about upset!! I couldn't help but cry when I saw it!! How horrified my baby must have been to have been bitten on the face. I knew it would eventually happen at daycare, but didn't realize it would be so soon and on her FACE!!! I eventually got over it because the mark disappeared over the next two days. She has even been bit again but only on the arm.

The biggest thing that has happened in these past few months has been Abby's 1st Birthday!!! I cannot tell you how incredibly bittersweet this day was for me!! To think how fast her first year of life went by makes me very sad. I miss my little newborn baby so very much but I am so excited to see my girl learn new things each day. I look at her now and think back to when she couldn't even hold her little head up! On her actual birthday (June 17th) the family went out to eat to Sal n Mookie's. I had her party the following Saturday at home. I had a vision of what I wanted for her party and it turned out pretty good for the most part. I really, really worked hard planning her party because I wanted it to be perfect! There will always be birthday parties, but never again the FIRST one!! I wanted it simple - but perfect!! I wanted it small - but wanted EVERYONE to celebrate with us! It turned out PERFECT and I couldn't have done it any differently. :)

Exactly ONE WEEK after she turned a year old she took her first little step! :) She was so excited for herself! She had been wanting to do it for some time - trying every single day. She would get in such a hurry and just leap into your arms instead of walking to you. But she finally did it. Took her time and literally "walked" to me. It was only a step or two, but I knew she would soon TAKE OFF!!

She also spent the night away from her mommy and daddy for the very first time a week after her 1st birthday. She stayed with her Aunt Jenn, Uncle Mike, and Emily while her mommy and daddy had a fun night out with friends. We weren't sure if she would stay the night but prepared for it anyway. It came time for her to go to sleep and off she went. I missed her SO badly, but was proud that she could manage without us - at least for one night. It's so hard to leave her!!

These past two months Abby waves bye-bye and says "da da." She is pretty vocal as far as baby babbling is concerned. She loves to give kisses and will even blow kisses. She does her "indian" sound which is done by patting her mouth while making a noise. She has quiet the temper on her - Bo keeps saying she gets that from me. :) She is going through the "mine" phase where she doesn't want to share her toys. She has also started swatting at people and I am trying to learn the best discipline method for her.

I love my baby girl with all my heart. I cannot imagine my life without her. I literally feel like I have a piece of my mama here with me through Abby. I know that sounds crazy, but it's just a feeling I have. EVERY time I look at Abby, I see and think about my mama. I miss my mama like you wouldn't believe and I sometimes wonder how I have made it through this year without her. There are days when I want to pick up the phone to call her and tell her what my baby just did. Then reality hits me like a ton of bricks! But I know things have happened this way for a reason. I believe in my heart that I wouldn't have Abby if my mama was still here.

Here are just a few pics of what we've been up to. I hope to have the 13th month posted soon!!

Swimming Lessons:

Crazy Face:

Mother's Day:

First taste of REAL chocolate:

Bo with his teammate from Brandon Police competing in the Southern Regional Lawfit Challenge:

They placed 3rd Overall. Ready for Nationals!!

Destin, Florida 2010:

First Birthday Party:

Her present from her mommy and daddy (picnic table made by Bo and painted by me):

.10.months.

2010-04-19T23:01:00.009-05:00

My baby girl is QUICKLY getting out of that “baby” phase!! I nearly see “toddler” all over her! She is SUCH a big girl these days. It makes me so incredibly sad because I miss my little newborn baby girl.

We are venturing into table foods!! This is by FAR one of the most difficult transitions yet! I am terrified she is going to choke to death! I have been putting it off, but mainly because her doctor has told me to. He is very “by the book” when it comes to this transition, which I am thankful for! She has had some carrots, peas, grits, oatmeal, and a tad bit of mashed potatoes. She is also eating the Gerber puffs! The texture in most of these foods has made her gag a little, which makes me think she is choking. It’s a sight to see when I am feeding her! I’m on edge with every bite!! I feel like I am totally like my mama when it comes to this. She use to cut up all my food into bites until I was a teenager seems like! :)

We are also working more with the sippy cup. She doesn’t want to hold it like she does her bottle, but we are working on it. I don’t think this will take long to catch on to.

She is, of course, crawling ALL over the place! She has learned just this past week to pull up pretty good. Her balance is still very unsteady, but she’s got the hang of it nonetheless. Last night at my sister’s house she pulled up on the doggy gate. As she was standing there she started hiking her leg as though she was going to climb over it (it was impossible, but she tried). At that moment I realized how quickly she was catching onto things! I mean she just started “really” pulling up this week and already she wants to climb on something?!?! So last night we lowered her crib to its FINAL position. I was very sad – to say the least!

She is also cutting MORE teeth! The two on the bottom have been in for a few weeks, but we now have sight of the two top teeth! This has made her extremely fussy!! The past week she has not wanted to go down for a nap – or even go to sleep in her bed. She simply wants to be rocked or held while she sleeps. She can be sound asleep and as soon as I walk to the crib she screams! I sometimes feel that this is God’s way of telling me I need to hold her more. There are days that go by where I get in such a hurry I don’t hold her as long as I could. I feel I will regret these days forever if I do not slow down and enjoy them! So as she is going through this phase, I am loving rocking her more and holding on to her more. Last night, as I rocked her, I had tears streaming down my face while I watched her sleep. She is just growing faster than I could have EVER imagined! It just seems like yesterday I was preparing for her arrival!! Now I am planning for her very first birthday party!!

Not only are we preparing for her party, we are also getting ready for Abby’s second trip to the beach! I am beyond excited about this because I think she will really enjoy it this time! She will get to play in the pool and even the sand!! :) We are also starting swimming lessons this summer. Mainly a fun experience for me, but want her to not be scared of the water. And of course we will be doing all of this with cousin Emily.
As we move into the 11th month of life for my Abby Grace, I think more and more about the preparations I was going through this time last year. . . .Preparing for her arrival! I also think about the day I found out I was pregnant. I think about how this miracle saved my family!! There is just SOMETHING special about this baby girl (not b/c she is mine … ha ha), but because she helped pull my family out of the most difficult time of our lives. She is truly my blessing from God and I firmly believe with everything I have that God blessed me with her to give me a part of my mama here with me. Every time I look in her eyes I see my mama. I think about how my mama must have felt when she had me. It’s a total connection that I cannot explain and I don’t think ANYONE fully understands until they become a mother.

Photoshoot by Aunt Jenn:

Enjoying her new swing from the Easter Bunny:
We FINALLY got to babysit cousin Emily:
Abby showing Emmie how to jump:
Like father like daughter:
So into her toys:

First dress I made for Abby:
Family pic at a wedding shower:
Again..... like father, like daughter:
Will she be a tomboy?:

.9.months.

2010-03-25T15:33:00.011-05:00

Where in the world is the time going?!?!?! Can we please stop time - for just a few hours?!?! My baby girl is growing way too fast. It is SO bittersweet! I LOVE watching her grow and experiencing so many new things, but I miss my little newborn baby girl. I love her more and more with every second of each day. She is truly my life!!

She is really turning into a big girl these days. She is crawling all over the place. If I leave the room, she is following right behind me. Still a little slow, but following me nonetheless. She keeps me extremely busy, which I am so grateful for. I have to watch her every second or she will be into something. It's so funny to watch her see something new. For example, I opened the refrigerator (as she was sitting on the kitchen floor) and she watched like it was a miracle that the big door she bangs on actually opens. She got excited! :) She has figured out the drawers open (kitchen drawers and her dresser drawers). She has yet to figure out the kitchen cabinets open yet - thank goodness. She pulls up to her knees VERY easily. She wants to pull up to her feet, but hasn't quiet figured it out yet. She is more vocal than ever - it's the best! She makes this little "huh" sounds that melts my heart. They are so soft and somewhat under her breath when she is really concentrating on something. SO CUTE! She is rather loud when she is excited! She loves to kick her legs like CRAZY and bounce on you when you hold her. Since she was about 4 months old she has her little hands opening and closing when she touches things - I LOVE THIS!! She has pretty much mastered the "bye-bye" wave, but only does it when SHE wants to.

We are SLOWLY getting a little healthier in the Luckey house. Abby did have to go to the doc last week due to a fever and being pretty lethargic one night. Turns out the ear infection from the previous week had not cleared up and had gotten worse. Also had another infection in the opposite ear. These infections where probably caused from the bad cold she (and everyone else) has had. Bo is on the mend from fighting a really bad cold, as I am too. My cold has apparently caused me to get pleurisy in my lungs. I found this out when I had MAJOR pain under my ribs when I would take deep breaths in, cough, sneeze, and even put pressure on my ribs. I was pretty terrified that I had lung cancer, but that's just me being me. In my heart I felt it was pleurisy or pneumonia. I am on some meds and hope to be better in a few days. If not, will go back for a chest xray. Abby goes back to the doc next week for her 9 month check-up. No shots at this appointment - YAY! But she does get blood work done, which I have heard is nearly worse than the shots. Egh! I am pretty nervous about the blood work considering she hasn't had blood work done since she was born. I pray that everything comes back normal.

We've been staying pretty busy. I am trying to learn to sew (when I have time). I have the last of my sewing classes this weekend. I hope to make Abby lots of nice outfits. Abby went to her 1st St. Paddy's Day parade; however, we missed the parade. She wasn't feeling well and it was pretty cold so we walked around for about 30 minutes and went home. She went down her first slide (with mommy of course) at a birthday party at Pump It Up (an inflatable party place). She seemed to like it. She had her first taste of a pickle and lemon this past month too. We are still on 2nd foods, but up to 2 jars a feeding. We hope to move towards 3rd foods and more big girl foods in the coming weeks.

We are getting ready for Easter next weekend and have started planning for her 1st Birthday Party! I just cannot get over how time has flown by over these last 9 months. I NEVER imagined motherhood would be so rewarding. You hear it all the time, but never understand it until you are a mom. I just wish with EVERYTHING I had that my mama was here to enjoy this with me. My life is SO perfect, yet SO imperfect at the same time. I am truly blessed to have this miracle in my life. God knows what he is doing. :)

She has her daddy's baby blanket in this pic:

My baby girl LOVES to play:

She messed up all her clothes at daycare so I picked her up in some of their clothes. She had an ear infection and didn't feel good at all:

This was they day she started crawling:

Loves to play in the kitchen:

Taking her friend, Elmo, for a ride:

This is how she likes to sleep - booty in the air:

Me and my girl at the St. Paddy's Day Parade:

.8.months.and.crawling.

2010-02-26T17:36:00.013-06:00

Okay so I am still only doing monthly posts. It's so hard to make time to get on here and blog. Most of you probably keep up with us on Facebook, which is where I update pics most often.

Anyway my baby girl is 8 months old now, can you believe it?? Time just seems to fly by faster every single day. We have been staying extra busy this month! Abby experienced her first MAJOR snow! We got over 4 or 5 inches in MISSISSIPPI! Crazy! Abby was not too fond of it. We only went out long enough to get a few pictures. I was afraid she would get sick because she had JUST gotten over RSV.

Abby also had her very first Valentine's day! We got her a few little things, as did her Nana (Bo's mom), her Pawpaw (my dad), and Aunt Jenn & baby Emily. :) She truly knew that she was loved! She got lots of balloons too, which she LOVED!

We also had baby dedication at church this month. It was this past week at Pinelake. She did AMAZING! I am just so proud of her!! My baby girl is such a happy girl! She usually only fusses when she is really tired and sleepy. She fights that sleep pretty bad too.

Some other BIG accomplishments where teething and crawling! Yes, we've finally done both! She got her first tooth this past week and boy is it sharp!! I can't imagine how bad that must hurt her. She also started "really" crawling this past week. She's been scooting around the house by rolling, sliding, half crawling, etc. This past Friday I brought her up to my work to see everyone and she just started crawling when my boss was playing with her! I was so excited and sad at the same time. One of her many firsts has now come and gone. Just another sign that she is getting to be such a big girl!

Abby is still on an AMAZING schedule. She sleeps through the night pretty much all the time. If she wakes up she puts her own paci back in her mouth and goes back to sleep. Mommy and Daddy rarely have to go in there anymore. She has started to somewhat pull-up on her crib, so we have lowered it. She hasn't made it to a standing position yet, but she will pull-up to her knees. She is still on baby-food and formula. We will probably be moving up to the 3rd foods any day now, as well as some baby snacks. We hope to be on whole milk by the first of April, which will be SO GREAT! We go to the doc at the end of March to check this.

She babbles a lot these days. Seems like she does it more and more each day. It sounds like she says "mama" when she cries and gets upset, but I don't think she realizes what she is saying. I like to think she does though. :) She also says "da da" when she plays, but again, she is just babbling.

Bo and I are doing GREAT now! Bo had the flu and strep throat last week, which was VERY difficult. He was so sick - I felt bad. But so far Abby and I have stayed well. I was very paranoid about us getting sick so I sanitized EVERYTHING!! He is doing well with school. A little over half way done.

We are all ready for spring and warmer weather. I am anxious to get outside with my baby girl and PLAY! I can't wait to get a jogging stroller and get some exercise outside.

Here are just a few pics from the last few weeks. . . .

My baby girl on Valentine's morning:

Major Mississippi Snow:

Abby LOVES to play:

Been holding her bottle like a big girl:

Picture I used for Baby Dedication:

Sweater and hat where made for me when I was little by my aunt:

.7.months.

2010-02-03T20:08:00.010-06:00

Well, it's hard to keep updated on my blog with things getting so busy around here, but I'm trying. :)

Abby is over 7 months now and changing EVERY day!! She is getting so big and it's very bittersweet. She's actually been a little under the weather the last week or so. It all started with a slight cold a month or so ago. Well she never got rid of the cough, which I didn't think was a big deal since I keep a cough forever after I've been sick. Well the weekend before last I noticed the cough just kept getting worse. Thought to myself - I better take her in to the doc just to be safe. Don't want her to get pneumonia or anything. So last Monday afternoon I took her to the doc. His first guess was RSV, but wanted to do the test to make sure. 20 minutes later - it's RSV!!! I thought "Oh No!" I've heard it is terrible! But he assured me that she would eventually get this b/c nearly all babies have it at least once in their life. So I felt a little better. Especially after he told me she was probably on the "up" side of it since she had been coughing for so long. Basically, she wouldn't get any worse than she was that day - only better. However, he did tell us to keep her out of daycare for the week because it was highly contagious! My FIRST thought was baby EMILY! We had been around her that whole weekend! He told me to let Jenn know she just needed to keep a close eye on her. And as of today, Em has still not gotten sick - PRAISE THE LORD!! Bo and I both enjoyed a few days off work last week with Abby (we rotated taking off work). She is all better this week and no more breathing treatments!!

Other than the RSV, Miss Abby seems to do something new everyday. She now holds her bottle all the time, which makes feeding times easier on us. She is talking more and more. She says "ba, ba, ba, ba" nearly ALL day long. She still isn't crawling yet, but it's coming soon. No teeth yet either - thank goodness! :) She laughs hysterically nearly everynight. She LOVES to laugh. Laughs at herself most times, but loves to laugh at her daddy.

Here are a few recent pics. . . .

First Breathing Treatment:

Not too sure about it:

Okay, she hated it the first time, but it wasn't so bad after that:

Tried to have a mini photoshoot - she wasn't having it:

Managed to get ONE pic of her in one of my dresses I use to wear:

My baby girl:

Abby and Emily "playing:"

Abby is so ready for Emily to play:

Just love this pic of Emily's face. She is listening to what Abby is "saying:"

6.months.

2010-01-08T23:16:00.000-06:00

Ok, so it's been FOREVER since I have posted. I've actually had this blog saved in my "drafts" for like a month now. Just haven't gotten around to writing yet.

Anyway, Abby had a WONDERFUL 6th month!!! She is nearly 7 months now, but I'm posting a few pics from her 6th month, including a few Christmas pics. (Sorry if the pics are out of order).

She is sitting up COMPLETELY on her own - not even really wobbly anymore. Our next big step will be crawling. I am expecting this ANY day now. She is on her tummy about to push up. So within the month I expect her to be mobile - oh no! ;) She is eating LOTS more! We eat "solid" food at nearly every feeding now. She is in the "2nd" foods and is actually eating at the table like a big girl (she has her own seat). She is talking up a storm - baby talk that is. I am trying to teach her things such as "bye, bye" and "no." Don't think she has got on yet though. We are getting baths in the big bath tub now. No more baby baths in the kitchen sink. She LOVES bath time!! She splashes in the water and plays with all her toys. Such a big girl!! She also LOVES to play with all her toys! Santa was truly good to her. We've gotten on a pretty good schedule lately. We have our nighttime routine that has really helped with her getting to sleep. We got our 6th month shots on New Year's Eve. She did great! She weights nearly 17 lbs (about average for her age). Getting so big!!

My girl in her "Rock & Roll" hoodie. . . .

Me and my girl in our "suits". . .

Big girl in the bath tub . . .

Part of our night-time routine. . . .

Playing with the piano. . . .

Bout to get her shots. . . .

One of my new favs. . . .

Played way too hard. . . .

Santa came. . . .

Christmas morning . . . .

Our family. . . .

Abby's Ornament. . .

Abby and Emily. . . .

First time on the Carousal. . . .

Abby meets Santa for the first time. . . .

Just learning to sit up in this pic. . . .

Learning to hold her own bottle. . .

How she likes to sleep now (booty in the air). . .

Abby's 1st snow. . . .

Cousin Emily (getting so big). . . .

.5.months.

2009-11-21T23:08:00.014-06:00

My baby girl turned 5 months old this past week (Tuesday, the 17th). I cannot believe it! She will soon be 6 months old meaning half a year has gone by! It's just crazy how fast time has gone by. She seems to do something new everyday now. My love for her grows so much each day. I love watching her play and just listening to her try to "talk." She truly is my life!

The past month she has been rolling over, eating "solid" foods, talking lots more, and playing LOTS! She rolls over more and more. We've had a few rough nights because she will roll over in her bed, then can't get back over. I have to come turn her, but she is getting better. She now will just stay sleeping on her stomach (sometimes). We eat "solid" food twice a day. Generally cereal in the morning mixed with a fruit, then a vegetable for dinner. We will soon add a third meal in there. Abby is definitely not like her mama. She has been talking up a storm! I guess she is just learning her noises. It's SO funny! And most of all - she LOVES to play!! We have a jumperoo, which is a stationary jumper that she likes. It has lots of toys on it to keep her occupied. She also has a door way jumper that she likes too! We take it with us when we go visit people - mainly cousin Em. Just recently, cousin Em loaned Abby her Jeep walker since she wasn't using it for a while. Abby LOVES it! It doesn't have too many toys on it, but she likes playing with the steering wheel on it. She's not too mobile in it yet, but it's coming! Of course she likes to just sit and play with some toys too. She constantly has something in her mouth these days - mainly her hand or some fingers. She loves to put the feet in there too! And we also play peek-a-boo alot!

We have been getting ready for Santa at our house. Jenn and I really want to start some traditions with our girls. Hopefully we can start a few this Christmas even-though they are still too young to know anything. I've been trying to get all my shopping done. I am ready for time off work to spend with my baby girl. Every second with her is precious!!

We've also been spending time with cousin Emily. She is just PRECIOUS and Abby LOVES her! She even wants to hold her already. ;) Check out Jenn's video on her blog. We are SO blessed to have these baby girls in our lives. They truly are miracles!!

Hopefully I can blog sooner next time. I am hoping to get a family photoshoot done next weekend. Need to get to work on our Christmas card this year!! Hope everyone has a WONDERFUL Thanksgiving!!

Abby right after her 4 month shots. . . .

Ready to surprise Aunt Jenn for her birthday . . .

Too tired to hold her head up. . . .

Loving her jumper. . .

Just a few randoms of my baby girl. . . .

Loving the Jeep walker. . . .

.1st.halloween.

2009-11-01T23:07:00.007-06:00

Things have been CRAZY around here!!! I haven't had time to blog in a while, but things have been happening!! As most of you know I am now the proud aunt of beautiful little Emily Elaine!! She was born October 22nd (on her daddy's birthday) weighing in at 5 lbs, 13 ounces! To follow along with Emily, check out the Hobson blog. She is so precious and I still cannot believe she is here. She wasn't due until November 3rd, but she was in a hurry to get here.

We also got to have our first halloween for Miss Abby and Emily! I put off making a tutu for Abby's halloween outfit until the VERY last minute b/c things have been so crazy. But now I am SO glad I did because I got to make a little, itty, bitty tutu for Emily as well!! Also had to go out and make her a Halloween onesie (and it was still too big). Anyway, we had a great time! Bo had to work but was able to spend a few hours with us (thanks Chief)! We started off at Jenn's neighbor's house for some appetizer's. Then Bo, Abby, and I headed off to the carnival in Flowood to meet up with our good friend's Corey and Renee. It was PACKED!!! Abby LOVED it though! She got to see so many people in one place. ;) Then we headed back to Jenn's house to spend time with cousin Emmie. Abby was passed out at that point though.

Other than that, we are all FINALLY well in the Luckey household. It's been tough because Bo and Abby have been under the weather. They've had to keep their distance from baby Emily, which has been SO hard to do!! Abby went for her well-baby visit to see Dr. Joe last week and she checks out great! Got her 4 months shots, which went well. She screamed for a sec but was over it by the time we got to the car. We are still working on the solid baby foods. She doesn't seem to like it too much because it doesn't happen fast enough for her. We're working on it though.

My Beautiful Niece..... about 20 minutes old:

The Luckey Fam on Halloween:

Precious Emmie:

With our babies:

My pumpkin princess:

Having a BLAST at the carnival:

Kisses from Daddy:

At the carnival:

Passed Out (yea, she sleeps with her eyes open):

.4.months.

2009-10-17T21:18:00.021-05:00

WOW! What a WEEK this past week has been. As I have already posted early, Abby was sent home from school on Monday because she had diarrhea. She had it on Sunday, but I thought nothing of it.... maybe just an upset tummy. I mean her poop seems different everyday and she eats the same thing everyday. Go figure! I even called the doc on Monday and they told me just to give her Pedialyte so she would stay hydrated. Anyway, I send her back to daycare Tuesday because no more diarrhea. Tuesday evening when we are at home I notice Abby is not acting herself. She is sleeping ALOT and not wanting to wake up at all. She is barely eating she is so sleepy. Take her to daycare the next morning and they inform us that a baby in the nursery had been diagnosed with the SWINE flu! I immediately make an appointment for Abby that afternoon to see a doc. JUST to be safe! I get Bo to take her to the doc since I just cannot miss anymore work. I mean I figure nothing is really wrong with her, she is really acting okay. WRONG! She is diagnosed with Swine flu and regular flu! Technically, she tested positive for Type A and Type B flu, which means seasonal (generally swine at this point) and regular. I FREAK OUT of course! I mean she is only 17 weeks old! I think the doc was a little more concerned than she let on too - being that Abby is so young and tested positive for both! She prescribed Tamiflu for her and tells us to come back on Friday to check her again. I IMMEDIATELY call Jennifer and tell her to call her OBGYN! Jenn was over 37 weeks preggo and was JUST exposed to Abby that Tuesday! OMG! The doc prescribes her Tamiflu as well. Bo gets his doc to call him in some Tamiflu and I go in to the doc on Thursday to get my Tamiflu as well! No one else is going to get this - at least we are trying not to!

Bo and I BOTH took off work Thursday to be with Abby. We were really concerned. She never really acted as if she didn't feel good except that Tuesday night. She never ran a high fever (99.4 was as high as it got). Thursday she was pretty much okay. She slept a little more than the norm and has developed a nasty cough! Went back to doc on Friday and she prescribed something to help with the cough. Haven't give that to her yet simply b/c I hate giving her meds at such a young age. Will see how it goes.

Anyway, this all happened on Bo and I's 3 year anniversary. Needless to say we didn't get to celebrate much, which is fine with us! We'd rather be at home taking care of Abby Grace! Bo did get me this AWESOME video camera! It's called a "flip" camera and it's so small and handy! I LOVE IT!! (Thanks babe!)

So while I've been at home with Abby I have really gotten a lot of organizing accomplished as far as my pictures are concerned. I've worked on Abby's baby book and organized her cabinet in the kitchen. Why?? B/c we are starting on some solid food!! YAY! I wanted so bad to start her on her 4 month birthday (10/17/09) and I did! Wanted to make sure poop was back to the norm before we started and it is. So tonight she got her first taste of carrots - YUM! I will let you see her reactions for yourself below (video is even at the bottom).

On another note - Bo is now SICK! His fever was over 100 tonight and he has been in bed since 8:30. I am sleeping on the couch. I am SO determined NOT to get this mess!! I think he has the flu.

Tomorrow is my 28th birthday. I won't really be celebrating since Bo is sick and Abby is still slightly on the mend. I do not want to get around anyone - especially Jennifer! If I do ANYTHING me and Abby might run to Dogwood to get some fresh air, but only if it's not too cold. Couldn't ask for a better birthday then spending it with my baby girl! I LOVE HER!

In organizing my pics, I came across this one below (she was a little over 3 month):

My new FAVORITE pic of Abby. . . .

We had a mini photo session today in one of her halloween outfits. I have been waiting on cooler weather so she could wear it - even if it is just sitting at home.

So cute it's scary. . . "

Ready for Halloween . . . .

Scared because she is SO CUTE . . . .

Daddy getting her all ready to eat. . .

Ready to Eat!

After first few bites, not too bad. . .

Still thinking about it. . .

Ahhh... this is pretty good. . . .

Doesn't this look yummy?!?!?

Loving this eating thing. . .

Getting a little full, maybe?

Cleaning her face all by herself. . .

Crying because she is still starving. . . .

The messy bib afterwards. . . .

Video of the first time eating. . .

(scroll to bottom of page and pause music before hitting play on video)

.first.fair.

2009-10-12T16:33:00.013-05:00

Sorry it's been so long since my last post. Having little Miss Abby around takes up the majority of my time and I am loving EVERY second with her!

Anyway, we took her to her first Mississippi State Fair this past weekend. I had been planning on taking her that Saturday all week long. It has been a little rainy here so I was REALLY hoping for good weather. Saturday afternoon most of the rain had moved out and it has really cooled down a bit. It seemed like perfect fair weather - minus the little misty rain. We decided to take a chance and take Abby to the fair. Not like we would be there long. I just wanted her to see the lights and hear all the sounds - and of course get her picture made! :) Bo and I, along with Aunt Jenn, Uncle Mike, and her papaw all went to experience her first fair with her. It was great! I LOVED watching her first expressions as she heard all the rumbles of the rides and saw all the colorful lights. She didn't know what to think. She did REALLY well and really enjoyed it.

We are also getting ready for Abby's first Halloween!! I have gotten a few festive onesies. I also found the cutest colorful light up pumpkin head thing. She LOVES staring at the colorful lights on it. Aunt Jenn gave her an early Halloween happy last week with a cute little Hello Kitty treat bag, cute 1st Halloween card, and the most ADORABLE Halloween outfit! She also gave her a mini flashy light thing that we have found works WONDERS when she is a little fussy! Again, she loves the lights! This one fits perfect in her diaper bag! :) We also got another Halloween happy from Austin last night. The cutest pumpkin bag, adorable onesie with cute socks, bib and hat, some GOOD teethers, and Austin even snuck a piece of chocolate in there for her! ;)

This Wednesday we are also celebrating Maggie's 3rd birthday, as well as Bo and I's 3rd anniversary. I cannot believe it's been 3 years already!!!!!!!! I am SO thankful to have the absolute BEST husband in the entire world. He is working SO hard in school, as well as working full time. I am just so proud of him!! Of course I am probably more anxious than him for this law school to be over, but he is handling it well. Three years ago I would have NEVER imagined my life would be where it is today. God has completely change MY plans into His. I am just SO thankful that God allowed my mama to meet my husband. She loved him like her own son! She bragged on him ALL the time to all her co workers. She was SO proud that he was going to law school. I am going to be giving Maggie some chicken and a Dingo for her birthday - her FAVORITES!! :) Bo and I probably won't do much for our anniversary. We were going to celebrate tonight since he is off work on Mondays, but Abby is home sick.

Abby got sick over the weekend. She had some dirreah yesterday but I didn't think much about it. She was acting fine and didn't have any fever. She also had some this morning before we took her to daycare. Once at daycare it happened again so they told us we needed to come get her. They were fearful it was Rota virus, but I don't think so. Doc doesn't want her to come in unless she isn't better tomorrow. Strictly giving Pedialyte, which she is finally keeping down. She is still having a little dirreah but seems to be on the mend. Maybe just a little stomach bug - at least I hope that's all. I wish mama was here to tell me what to do and tell me everything is going to be okay. I have thought about her all day. How she would be calling to check on Abby every second. I keep envisioning her walking into my house and jumping on the floor to get to my baby girl. I keep wanting to pick up the phone and call. . . "mama, what do I do?" Oh how I wish she was here!!

This weekend we will be celebrating Abby's 4 month old birthday (Saturday) as well as mine and dad's birthday (Sunday).

My sick baby taking a nap:

Trying to keep a sick baby entertained (in our 4th outfit of the day):

After Bathtime:
During Bathtime:
Mommy enjoying playtime with Abby:
Sweet Kisses for my Baby Girl:

Halloween Happy from Aunt Jenn:

Loving the Halloween Light:

Mommy and Abby at her First State Fair:

With Aunt Jenn at the Fair:

The Luckey Fam at their First Fair:Looking at all the lights at the fair:

.3.months.

2009-09-16T21:00:00.009-05:00

So today is my baby's "3 month" birthday! Exactly 3 months ago today, my baby entered the world. It's so hard to believe the time has gone by so fast. I know everyone says that, especially when you have kids, but I never realized it until now. Being a mommy is the best, yet most challenging thing in the world! I love every second of it and wouldn't trade it for the world. I am SO blessed to have my angel!

It's also hard to believe that exactly a year ago today, I buried my mama. September 17, 2008, was the day we had her WONDERFUL graveside service. It was exactly what she wanted - I mean she literally planned it. I look back on that day and the emotions that ran through me. Who would have known exactly a year later I would have a 3 month old?!?! Crazy how things work. I think about mama nearly every second of every day. I think about the good times and how she LOVED us with everything she had. You never truly understand a mother's love until you actually become a mother yourself. I just wish she was hear to experience this with me. I know she would be telling me "I told you so" regarding a mother's love. :)

Anyway, Abby is growing like CRAZY! Daycare is going good. She seems to be adjusting just fine. She is still sleeping through the night. It's tough getting her to sleep sometimes, but once she's out - she's OUT! :) I, on the other hand, have been sick TWICE since she has been in daycare. Not sure if she is just carrying the germs home or I am just breathing the germ filled air at daycare. Last Wednesday I had an AWFUL stomach bug!!! Then, this week I've got what seems to be a bad cold. I've got drainage with a severely soar throat! Just felt crapy! Hopefully this will be over soon! She is holding her head up pretty good now. It's SO CUTE!

Also, for those that do not know, Bo is leaving the Rankin County Sheriff's Department in about a week. He has accepted a position with Brandon Police Department as the animal control officer. Yea - he's back at Brandon and he couldn't be more excited - even if it is just animal control! He was just really tired of being "in jail" all day with the County and the inmates just really get to him. I know I couldn't work there. He has been working REALLY hard on a BIG paper that is due in October. I am so proud of him, but I will be SO glad when he is finished!! He will be half way there at Christmas time!!!

Other than that, we are just anxiously awaiting the arrival of little Emily!! Jennifer is over 8 months preggo now, which is just hard to believe! She has had a couple of showers and seems to have the nursery nearly complete. I am more than excited for Jennifer and Michael! I know they will be the best parents in the world!!

Here are a few pics from Abby's 3rd month here on Earth. . . .

.missing.mama.

2009-09-14T08:24:00.001-05:00

Miss you and love you mama!

.what.a.year.

2009-09-09T21:18:00.002-05:00

A year ago today I began to experience the worst days of my life! My mama went into the hospital for the last time and never got to come home.

This week will be hard on me and my family as we can’t help but think about this time last year. I have been having flashbacks nearly all the time. Just thinking about her last days here with us. How I never imagined she would not come back home. I think about the horrific experiences in the hospital, but also the wonderful people that took care of her in ICU. I think about the moment her heart monitor started to quickly fall, but yet I was so thankful she was not “alone” (her biggest fear). The complete emptiest I felt as I left the hospital that night (and still feel today). Discussing with Jennifer, “I wonder what mama is doing right now,” as we talk about our mama in Heaven the next day. It all literally seemed like a nightmare. I thought I would wake up any moment and life would be peaceful again. But yet, we were all so at peace with everything. Mama knew how to prepare us for the inevitable. She had a perfect service on a perfect, gorgeous day! God truly gave me an amazing strength that I didn’t know I had. Before all this happened, you could have told me the future and I would have told you there’s no way I would make it through something like that. But I did!

And then, we made it through our HUGE garage sale, sold our family home, made it through the birthdays and holidays, and above all else I was pregnant with mama’s first grandbaby. Something I never thought I would go through without my mama. Abby is totally my little miracle baby for sure! Abby Grace has helped me and my family make it through the most difficult experience of our lives! Jennifer says it best – “our saving grace.” She gave us the opportunity to prepare for a new little life. Nearly every time I look at her, I see my mama. And now, we get to prepare for little Emily! Preparations for this little baby girl are in full swing! I know in my heart these babies were sent to us because of mama. Oh how I wish I could talk to mama about these gorgeous babies!!

I just hope God gives me the strength to get through this week – especially next Monday. September 14^th marks the one year anniversary that mama went to be with Jesus. A breakdown moment is on the verge at any second – I just feel it! I keep hearing my mama’s voice in my head and thinking of all sorts of memories – good and bad. I would give anything to have her here with me!!! I love you mama!! Abby and Maggie love their Mimi too!!

.day.care.

2009-09-04T14:48:00.004-05:00

Well, our first week of daycare is nearly under our belt – thank goodness! What a week! My first day back to work and Abby’s first day of daycare was Tuesday, September 1st. Over my whole maternity leave, I have dreaded that day but at times would get a little anxious about it. I didn’t want to take her to day care, but I didn’t want to stay at home forever.

Monday night, before I went back to work I literally cried myself to sleep. I honestly didn’t think I was going to be able to take her the next morning. I had SO many thoughts running through my head! I was so worried about her, but I knew she would be fine. With the emotions of leaving her at daycare, came the emotions of missing mama. I kept thinking…. “if only I could just talk to her about this!” I felt SO alone! I think it was more than just taking her to daycare….. it was mainly the separation anxiety of me being away from her for over 8 hours at a time – the longest ever to be without her! I then kept thinking, “how can I stay at home and not return to work?” I was thinking of selling the house, selling Bo’s truck, working part-time, etc. Then, I had to face reality! There was NO WAY I could stay at home. I knew I would just have to get over this hurtle. I thought of all the things I have been through in the past year and I knew I had the strength to get through this. I did have to tell myself that I would only work till lunch on the first day, and then go pick her up! Although I knew in my heart, once I got to work I would be fine. It was just the initial dropping her off I was worried about.

So the morning finally came. Bo and I were both going to take her. We worked as a team trying to get ready for the day. It was great! I felt good about the day and didn’t feel too emotional (I mean my eyes were still swollen from crying so much the night before). I knew she was going to fall asleep on the way there, which I didn’t want. I was NOT going to leave her at that daycare asleep in the car seat. I didn’t want her to wake up in a weird place with no familiar faces. So we get to daycare and go to the nursery. I woke her up a bit when we got out of the vehicle, but she was falling back to sleep fast. I talk to her teacher and try to tell her things she likes. Then, time to go! I kissed her goodbye and as soon as I walked out of the room the tears were flowing! One of the workers and the director both gave me a hug and told me she would be fine. They told me to call as much as I wanted. That made me feel better, but I was still upset! I got in my vehicle and got myself together. I didn’t want to be a mess at work!

I got to work and did fine! I did call to check on her one time after lunch and she was fine - yes I made it the whole day at work. Work was great! It was really good seeing everyone and I am glad to be in a routine again. I even changed my work ours – a short lunch in order to get off earlier! Also, the amazing Aunt Jenn (and cousins Emily, Harlee, & Gracie) sent me some Gerber daisies to work to brighten my day! Jennifer has truly been my biggest rock through everything! I literally couldn’t make it without her!!!!

The end of my work days never come soon enough! I am dying to get to my baby girl!! But Abby seems to be doing well with daycare. It is still difficult to get through my day at work without seeing her, but we make up for it at night.

I love her more and more every single day! It still amazes me that God has blessed me with this perfect angel! She is truly my life! She also makes me feel like I have a piece of mama still here with me. I mean mama’s blood is literally running through her! I cannot WAIT to tell Abby about her Mimi!!

First day of "school:"

Flowers from Aunt Jenn:
Me and my baby girl at Jenn's baby shower on Sunday:

Abby smiling with her Auny Jenn:

.1st.beach.trip

2009-08-20T20:09:00.017-05:00

This past weekend we left for our annual family beach trip to Destin, Florida! We left Saturday morning, but before we left Abby got a little sick. It TERRIFIED US!

Thursday night we were late getting Abby to bed, which is about the norm these days. I had moved her back into our room in her pack n play because she was doing this weird reflux, spit up type thing and I felt more comfortable with her in there. I was late getting in bed and was having trouble sleeping. Just laying there thinking about our trip and what all I had to take, etc. I noticed Abby was making ALOT more noise than usual. Just little grunts and stuff. She started to cry a bit and something told me to check on her. I put my hand on her forehead to soothe her and it felt slightly warm, but not bad. Her cheeks were not hot at all so I got back in bed. A few minutes later she REALLY started crying! Instead of letting her cry it out for a few minutes, something told me to get up right away and see about her! THANKS GOODNESS I DID! I felt her again, but this time stuck my hand into her swaddle and her neck was SOAKED in sweat! I reached for her hand it it was also soaked! I immediately picked her up and stripped her! SHE WAS ON FIRE!! I woke Bo up and went and got the thermometer! 104.8!!! FREAKED ME OUT!! Bo was calm, but I could tell he was nervous. I immediately gave her Tylenol. I calmed down a bit, but when Bo told me we needed to go to the ER I got really worried! I wonder how long her temp had been that high! So we headed to the closest hospital, which was River Oaks - BAD MISTAKE!! We get there and they inform us that they do not do anything type of pediatrics. I asked if we needed to leave and they said no b/c they see babies sometimes and if she has to be admitted they would transfer her to UMC. I thought - no big deal, it's just a fever. Surly they can help us! Well, the doc ended up being a quack and the nurses couldn't get an IV started on my baby. The poked her so many times in each hand! It was a nightmare! We finally left and went to UMC. Long story short, Abby had a urinary tract infection! She got a shot and we were on our way home. We made it home about 7:30 Friday morning and off to sleep we went.

We were leaving for Florida the next day, but before we could leave Abby had to go get another shot at UMC. This took forever! She was due another shot the next day but because we were going out of town, they sent her home on some oral antibiotic. BIG MISTAKE! I would have rather skipped out on Florida just for the shot! This stuff has TORN my babies tummy to pieces. It has turned her poop a brownish red and caused some severe diaper rash! She is extra fussy on this mess! Only a few more days and we are done with it - thank goodness! We go to her regular pediatrician on Monday afternoon to make sure the infection is gone.

As for Florida, Abby did GREAT considering her illness! It rained nearly the entire time but we managed to get our pictures in! I knew we wouldn't be hanging on the beach anyway with an 8 week old so the weather didn't bother us a bit! Plus, Jenn is 28 weeks preggo, so she didn't mind either. We did lots of shopping and eating! It was good just to get away for a few days.

On the way home from UMC. . .

One of the many pokes done by the crazies at River Oaks. . . .

All her battle wounds. . . .

SO sleepy after a long night in two ER's. . . .

Ready for the beach. . . .

Abby's FIRST trip on the sand. . . .

Family Pic. . . .

My girl looking cool in her shades. . . .

Abby with Mimi's Gerber Daisy. . . .

Me and Abby with Aunt Jenn and Emily (in belly). . . .

The Luckey Family Photo. . . .

Our Traditional Family Pic. . . .

You can few more pics HERE.

.shots.

2009-08-04T13:33:00.010-05:00

So today was the dredded day for the "6 week" shots! We saw Dr. Joe for a little check up and he answered all my crazy questions. Abby checked out GREAT, weighing in at 10 lbs, 4 oz. The shots where tough. She screamed like crazy after the first stick, but she calmed down soon after in her daddy's arms. She has been pretty fussy this morning and is napping now. I hope she feels better soon!!

Abby will be 7 weeks old this Wednesday and I cannot believe it! The time has really flown by and it makes me very sad. She is sucking on her little hands and sometimes even finds her thumb. We have JUST transitioned her from sleeping in our room in the Pack N Play to her crib in the nursery. She is even still sleeping ALL NIGHT in the crib!! I will have to go back to work soon (probably September 1st). But first, we will take our annual vacation to Florida which I am VERY excited about! It will be a very short trip, but that's okay. We just want to get away!!

I am doing great! I have started walking and working out a little bit. I think I over did it last week so will lighten up just a bit. I am so anxious to get my body back, but will take my time.

We are anxiously waiting to take a "sneak peak" at Abby's cousin and my little niece Miss Emily Elaine Hobson! This Friday, Jennifer goes for her 4D sonogram and we are SO exicted! Me and Abby are planning on going to see little Emmie!!

Abby Napping in her crib. . . .

6 Weeks Old. . .

Maggie LOVES her sissy. . . .

Waiting to get shots. . . .

Waiting. . .

After the shots. . .

.one.month.

2009-07-21T15:49:00.010-05:00

Where is the world has the time gone? My baby girl is now over a month old! If a month goes by this fast, I can't imagine how quickly her first birthday will be here. It's so sad, but it's so fun! I look at her everyday and think... "what else will she see for the first time today?" She has so much to do in her life and I'm SO excited for her and to be there with her! I cannot wait to share everything with her.

Her first month of life was the best month of my life! The first few weeks home were tough, but worth every second of it! Now that we've sorta got our schedule down things are a little easier. We've made a few ventures out and she's done great! We do "tummy time" to strengthen her neck muscles in hopes that she will soon hold her head up on her own. She is making little noises and they are the sweetest in the world!! She is getting better at focusing on things and following things with her eyes. I say all these things as a proud mama, but am sad that she is "growing up." I think everyday about how I will wish for these days back in years to come. I love little Abby with all my heart!

Here are a few pics from her first month. . . .

Just finished tummy time:

Silly Girl:

Napping with Daddy:

Same EXACT shirt her mommy wore:

Napping:

Sweet Baby Girl:

Abby with her Mommy:

Celebrating her "One Month" (Thanks Aunt Jennifer!):

.doctor.visits.

2009-07-08T13:53:00.011-05:00

So Monday was our first visit to Abby's pediatrician. Bo was off work for the 4th of July holiday so he was able to go with us. Everything checked out great! Abby's weight is up at 8 lbs. 10 oz., which is a little over her birth weight of 8 lbs. 7.2 oz. I was very happy to hear this! I thought she was starving!! She is in the 50th percentile for her weight. She is now measuring 22 inches long, which is up from 21 1/4 inches at birth. This puts her in the 95th percentile for her length. Yea - as you imagined - she is a "tall" girl! We go back in a few weeks for her first set of shots. That will be a hard visit for me and Abby! Her doctor is very nice and I was pleased. He answered all my questions and gave us some great info! Abby was a trooper. It was FREEZING in that doctor's office and she did great!

After her appointment, we went home for a nap and waited until my doctor's appointment that afternoon. We waited what seems like forever to see Dr. Cole, but we finally saw her! I was so glad Dr. Cole got to see Abby again. After going through labor I now see what these OBGYN's REALLY do on a daily basis. It amazes me that they go from bringing a child into the world one second to just seeing "regular" patients the next. For example, we waited so long b/c Dr. Cole was doing a c-section. While I was in labor she was back and forth from the hospital checking on me to seeing her patients in the office across the street. Crazy! I have a whole new respect. Anyway, everything checked out okay with me. I am healing well. I go back in 3 weeks to see her again and hopefully will be "released" to my normal routine again. I am ready to get back to walking/running!

Everything else is going good. She is still sleeping really well at night. Usually sleeps 6 to 7 hours at a time at night, which is great! I just know it can't last. She will probably start waking in the middle of the night when I go back to work. But for now, we aren't complaining. She is doing really well on "her" schedule. We generally eat every 3 hours, give or take 30 minutes. Right now, she is sleeping in her Pack N Play next to our bed but I am anxious to get her in the crib. I have tried a few naps in there but she isn't liking it. We will try it each day until we succeed! We've also had our first bath and did tummy time for the first time yesterday! We have video of both, so I will figure out how to put them on here. For now, here are a few pics below. . . . .

Before the first "real" bath:

Waiting to hear her named called to see Dr. Joe:

Freezing on the table at the Doctor's Office:

Waiting on Dr. Joe with Daddy:
Waiting on Dr. Joe with Mommy:

.we're.back.

2009-06-30T15:50:00.004-05:00

Hey Ya'll!! I am finally back to blogging! We missed a good week or so, but things have been a little crazy. Thanks to "Aunt Jennifer" for keeping everyone posted with the BEST pictures! She is truly the BEST and has been the biggest help through everything. I cannot wait to return all these favors for her come November. Of course I will have extra help from "cousin" Abby. :)

So.... how is life as a mommy? We'll it's the best thing EVER! I can't quiet express the feelings and emotions I have towards my baby girl. I know my mama use to tell me all the time "one day you will understand." I think of that nearly EVERY time I look at Abby. It's so amazing how this little human was once in my tummy moving all around and now I can't believe she is actually here! It's the neatest feeling! I just think she is the most amazing thing in the world! (And so is Maggie). :)

Abby and I are doing GREAT! She is getting better at the whole breast-feeding thing. We've had some weak moments but it gets better each day. We have substituted with a little formula at night, but so far so good! She is sleeping practically thought the night! However, she doesn't usually fall asleep until midnight or so. But she sleeps till 6 or 7! I am even waking her up to eat at that point. I am sure this won't last long. Plus, we are going to get on a schedule soon (I hope)! She is slowly gaining her weight back. She was at 7 lbs 12 ounces last Wednesday. We go to her pediatrician next Monday (July 6th). I am very anxious about this appointment. I will have my list of questions ready! :) We've had just a few outings. We've been to lunch a few times when it wasn't too crowded. We've also had our first photoshoot with Aunt Jenn. The pics are fabulous (of course). We've had a few sponge baths and we LOVE to sleep!

My life is forever changed - for the better! It is a huge adjustment but worth every second. We learn something new everyday and it's been fun. I can't help but smile at Abby everytime I look at her. Even through her tears, I find myself smiling at her because she is literally my angel sent from Heaven. I know mama is loving watching her grandbaby from above. I have had my moments dealing with the "I wish mama was here," but I know in my heart that Abby is here because of God and my mama. We even went to visit her Mimi yesterday for the first time. Papaw even had Abby's picture on the grave - so sweet!! We just LOVED it and of course - had to get our picture made!

Abby is such a daddy's girl. She is totally wrapped around her daddy's finger. It is the best feeling in the world to see Bo with Abby. He loves her more than life itself - you can just see it! He's been the biggest help and I hate to see him go back to work tomorrow.

A special thanks to my AMAZING family and friends for helping us get adjusted to parenthood. Thanks to all our visitors and for all the well wishes! We are so blessed to have such wonderful family and friends.

Check out all the fun we've been having. . . .

Hanging on the couch with mom:

Maggie LOVES her new sister. She watches over her as she sleeps:

First trip "out" to a late lunch at No. 1 China Buffett:

After the first "sponge" bath:

Napping on the couch like a big girl:

2nd trip "out" for a late afternoon snack to Dairy Queen:

First trip to visit Mimi:

And the fabulous photoshoot by Aunt Jenn:

Abby's Here!

2009-06-17T16:44:00.007-05:00

This is Jennifer - posting for Lisa...

Abby Grace made her grand entrance this morning at 11:09 am. weighing in at 8 lbs, 7.2 oz and 21 1/4" long. Mom and baby girl are doing great!

.another.week.

2009-06-08T20:38:00.003-05:00

Ok, so today was the day for my final sonogram and to "make plans" according to my doctor. I went in with the anticipation that Abby would weigh nearly 7 pounds or so (I mean she couldn't be that big - yet), and also with the thoughts that I had at least dilated a centimeter or had effaced or SOMETHING!!

Well, we go in for the sonogram and everything looks great! She is in position and is doing her "practice breathing" and everything! I was so excited! Then the weight..... she is weighing 8 lbs 3 ounces!!!!! I could NOT believe she was already measuring SO BIG! I knew I was going to have a big baby, but I still have a week till my due date. Of course, sonograms are known to not be exactly accurate. I mean it could be 2 lbs off either way. So she could really be 6 pounds OR she could be 10 pounds!! WOW!! My doctor said I wasn't measuring that big so she was probably more between the 6 to 8 pounds than closer to 10. But still - she is a BIG GIRL!!

With that said, my doctor really doesn't want me to go past my due date. Unfortunately I have again not dilated or ANYTHING! Doctor said she hasn't even dropped - which I beg to differ!! Anyway, the plan is.... I will go back in a week to see if I have done anything. Even if I have, we will plan SOMETHING for next Tuesday, June 16th - my original due date! I am guessing if I have dilated some, she will go ahead with an induction. If not, it will probably be a c-section.

So I will officially have my baby girl here next Tuesday at the latest which is exciting but terrifing at the same time! I am really indifferent as to how she gets here - I just want a happy, healthy baby girl with a safe and healthy delivery. I trust my doctor and know she will only do what is best for me and Abby.

I will keep everyone posted if something happens before then, but next time I post, I could have a baby girl. :)

Have a great week!!!!!!!!

.another.girl.

2009-06-04T22:20:00.002-05:00

As most of you know by now, my sister is expecting a sweet BABY GIRL!! I cannot believe she is having a little girl!! She is currently a little over 18 weeks preggo - almost halfway there. We ALL were prepared for her to have a little boy, but God totally had other plans. I am just beyond excited that she is having a girl - just like me. This is something we had dreamed of our whole lives - to have kids so close in age. And now - for both of us to have girls just TOPS THE CAKE! Thank you God for such wonderful blessings! I'll have to keep everyone posted on Baby Girl HOBBS!

As for me, I went for my weekly doctor's appointment today. I am currently 38 weeks and 2 days preggo. I have not dilated or ANYTHING! I was somewhat disappointed, but also relieved at the same time because I am just not ready for her arrival yet. My doctor wasn't concerned, but is ready to "make plans." Not sure exactly what this means, but I can only assume she wants me induced by my due date. But before we "make plans" she wants me to come in on Monday afternoon for a sonogram. Then she will discuss a plan based on how big she is and her position, etc. Hopefully I will dilate or something over the weekend because I do not want to be induced! To me, that only leads to a c-section. We'll see.

So I will keep everyone posted on Monday as to "the plan." Till then, have a GREAT WEEKEND!!

.nursery.complete.

2009-05-31T22:48:00.008-05:00

Abby's nursery is finally COMPLETE! I have finally got some GREAT pictures of her fabulous little room - thanks Jennifer! My sister, aka "Aunt Jenn," came over this afternoon with her wonderful photog skills to capture some of the best pics! There is still a picture frame I must get and hang on the wall but everything else is FINISHED!

The nursery has been a challenge to complete - mainly because I wanted EVERYTHING perfect! It was alot of hard work and I couldn't have put it together without Jennifer's help. All of her ideas and decorating advice are all over it! THANKS SO MUCH!!!!

This Wednesday, we can OFFICIALLY start planning the nursery for baby Hobbs! Yes, we find out the sex of her baby on Wednesday morning. I am beyond excited!!

I will be 38 weeks on Wednesday, which means only 2 more weeks till the due date! FREAKS ME OUT to think about it. But with all the planning, I am somewhat physically ready.... just not emotionally and mentally. :)

So here is a collage of pictures below of Abby's nursery (you can make it larger by clicking on it). You can also check them out (and more) by clicking HERE.

.another.week.

2009-05-28T22:18:00.006-05:00

So today was another weekly doctor's appointment. No change, just a pound heavier than last week. Heard the wonderful heartbeat and everything seems to be right on track. I will be 38 weeks next Tuesday, which is SO hard for me to believe. I cannot believe I only have a little over 2 weeks before my actual due date! I asked my doctor today how long she would let me go past my due date if Abby had decided not to make an entrance by then and she said 41 weeks. I asked that simply because I just don't "feel ready" yet! I will probably never feel ready though. I have Abby's bags packed for the hospital and have started on mine. Her nursery is complete - I will have to take pics this weekend for everyone to see. I am SO very proud of it!!

I keep thinking about my baby girl and wondering who will she look like, who will she act like, how do I handle her if she just won't stop crying, etc! I've thought about my mama every single day wondering "how would she be reacting?" I know she would be excited beyond belief, but I hate that I will never know her reaction to meeting my baby girl - her grandbaby! Something she had looked forward to forever. I know she is watching down from above with a big smile and those wonderful tears of joy she use to always get. I can hear her telling me now "don't worry, everything will be okay." I have to know that God is letting her watch everything from "the best seat in the house." She is loving every minute of it!

So..... who will Miss Abby look like:

Her daddy (below at 2 days old)?

Her Mommy (below at 2 weeks old)?

Or, could she possibly look like her Aunt Jennifer (below at 11 days old)?

Guess we will find out in 2 to 3 weeks..... if not sooner!! If the 4D's are accurate, I say she is looking like her mommy. She has those big chubby cheeks. I look swollen in my newborn pic. Maybe Abby won't be too big! :) Hope everyone has a safe and wonderful weekend!!!!!

.baby.update.

2009-05-21T18:37:00.003-05:00

So today I went for my first "weekly" doctor's appointment. It was not very fun this time because she actaully does "the check." It was very uncomfortable and I wonder if I will make it through this whole thing. But all checked out okay. No changes, other than another 2 lbs heavier. My whole pregnancy has been a true blessing. I haven't gotten sick really and I haven't gotten "miserably" big. I have gained 32 lbs, but I am so tall I carry it well. I am now thankful for my height. :) The worst of my problem is the frequent bathroom breaks and my recently VERY swollen feet! They are very swollen and have actually become a little tender from it. But if that's the worst of my pregnancy, I'm thanksful. Now, a little over 3 weeks left before my due date. At first I didn't think I would make it to June 16th, but now I think I will. I don't know - we'll see!
As for other things, the nursery is nearly completed! I hope to have some pictures posted soon. I have started washing things in her "special" detergent. Her sheets and most clothes are washed. I have somewhat packed her hospital bag and must start packing mine. I am just not quiet ready for her arrival, but I must be prepared. She could come any day! I am full term (37 weeks) on Tuesday.

.work.shower.

2009-05-05T21:47:00.001-05:00

Today I had another AMAZING baby shower! My coworkers honored me with a shower during lunch today. I cannot even begin to tell you how blessed I am to work with such amazing people. I had a wonderful time and got some great stuff for our baby girl Abby! My sister, Jennifer, was able to make it to the shower - thank goodness! She has been there by my side through every step of this journey. I cannot WAIT to return all these favors for her! Bo was able to make it too after he finished up his first final exam. Thanks to everyone who was a part of this special day and a special thanks to my "HR Family." We are going to get our Travel System this weekend!! I am beyond excited!!! Below are a few shots from today. . .

All my goodies from today. . . .

.shower.4.the.guys.

2009-04-27T16:40:00.011-05:00

This past weekend our very dear friends, Corey and Renee, hosted a WONDERFUL baby shower for us! It was actually a shower for the "guys" to attend too! We wanted a shower for Bo and all his guy friends, as well as Abby's papaws to attend. Corey and Renee did a MORE THAN outstanding job!! We had such a great time!! Great food, games, and fun! They really outdid themselves. Thank you so much Corey and Renee for such an amazing time!! Also, thanks to all our family and friends for coming. We are so glad you are helping us celebrate such an exciting time. Here are a few pics from the shower. . . .

Renee and I with the DELICIOUS cake:

Playing "Guess the Baby Food" game:

.maternity.pics.

2009-04-22T22:59:00.005-05:00

Make sure to turn the sound off at the bottom of my blog before hitting play on the slide show. . . .

To view all the pics, click HERE.

.shower.and.announcement.

2009-04-22T19:42:00.015-05:00

This past weekend I had my very first baby shower! It was given by our good friends Ms. Brenda and Brandi. It was MORE than PERFECT! They did such a wonderful job of making my shower extra special. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart!!

We got alot of really great stuff!! Thanks to everyone who came and helped begin to welcome Abby into the world. Below are a few pictures from the shower. . .

Can you spot my niece in this pic. . .

Maggie even LOVED all the presents. . .

At the very end of the shower (after most had left), my sister gave out some VERY special "party favors" to my cousin, aunt, and grandmother. This "party favor" was a special announcement to them. . . .

SHE'S PREGGERS TOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am beyond excited for them!! She is due November 2009, which means our babies will be about 4 months apart. Our whole lives we've always wanted our kids to be so close in age so this is really a dream come true! I'm so ready to start planning for baby Hobbs! Hopefully we will find out what it is in June. CONGRATS TO MICHAEL, JENNIFER, and big sisters GRACIE AND HARLEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

To view all pictures from the shower, click HERE.

.31.weeks.

2009-04-14T22:05:00.007-05:00

So today marked the official 31 weeks mark! I cannot even begin to describe how I am feeling right now. It's hard for me to believe this is really happening! Such an amazing, yet scary, feeling. I have less than 10 weeks to go before I meet my baby girl. I wish it would hurry up and get here - then again, I'm SO not ready for this!!

I had a doctor's appointment this afternoon, along with a sonogram (see pics below). Everything checked out great. Heartbeat was strong at 140 bpm. Abby is measuring "above average" at nearly 4 lbs! I think average is right under 3.5 lbs. With that said, Abby will probably be a large newborn. I asked the doc if genetics played a factor in this. She asked how much Bo and I weighed at birth. When I told her we were both pushing 9 lbs each, she said "yea, you will probably have a big one." I knew this all along, but for her to confirm it made me worry.

I then start contemplating a scheduled c-section again. There's just no way I want to push a big baby out!! My doc is pro c-sections. She herself had one. I am still unsure. I have basically decided to wait and see how much larger she will really be. If she is 7 lbs or less, I will try a vaginal delivery. If she is 8 lbs or more, I will schedule a c-section.

Other than that, all is good. I have gained another 4 lbs (in 3 weeks), for a total weight gain of 24 lbs! I am at where I wanted to be at 9 months, so I have gained more than I wanted. Oh well, I can't complain. I have been pretty lazy and eaten ALOT.

Hope everyone had a great Easter and enjoys their week!!

Profile (sonographer commented on her "cute" lips) . . .

Cute baby face. . . . .

Wanted confirmation she is REALLY a girl. . . .

One LONG foot. . . .

.babies.in.bloom.

2009-04-01T22:43:00.007-05:00

So a week or so ago, I was on my way home from work listening to y101. I was just pulling in my driveway when they announced "be the 10th caller to win a spot on the VIP list for Girl Power Happy Hour!" Girl Power Happy Hour is something y101 does every month or so at various places around Jackson. You have to be on the list to get in and there's usually lots of neat prizes! Well this Girl Power Happy Hour was called "Babies in Bloom" and was for those that were expecting a baby, planning to have a baby, or even thinking BABY! So when they announced to call, I figured I'd give it a shot. I called ONE time thinking "I never win anything." Then - THEY ANSWERED! I WON!!!!! I was on the list for Babies in Bloom, Girl Power Happy Hour!!

I got to take a guest along with me. Of course my first choice is Jennifer!! Well, she left for Miami that same day. Egh! So who was I to take? I wanted to take someone who would benefit - someone preggers!! I thought about Leah, who is one of Jennifer's really close friends (they work together). I asked if she'd be interested and she was all for it!

So Girl Power Happy Hour was on Tuesday night at St. Dominic's Hospital. I really didn't WANT to go because I thought it would be just a lot of information given out that I probably had already read somewhere. But I really wanted to go for the prizes!! I never win anything so I KNEW I wouldn't win a prize. They took us on a tour of St. Dominic's and explained the hospital's processes when you deliver there. Didn't do me much good considering I am delivering at Woman's Hospital. It was okay. It was hard because I just don't like that place. It's the last place I ever really saw and even TALKED to my mama. It just doesn't bring back the best memories.

But anyway, after the tour we had food! Then they gave out prizes! I wasn't even paying attention when all of a sudden I hear "Lisa Luckey!" I wave my hand yelling "that's me!" They say "and you're the GRAND PRIZE WINNER!" I nearly fell out of my chair! I NEVER win anything! I won a digital, color, video baby monitor and a gift certificate for a pedicure!! I was so pumped! Then, as Leah and I are talking about how we both never win anything, we hear "Leah Babb!" She won too! She got the grand prize for the guest - a gift certficiate for a pedicure!!

Needless to say, I am glad that I went. We got great prizes and lots of neat "handouts." Here are a few pics of my loot. . . .

.nursery.beginnings.

2009-03-24T19:23:00.013-05:00

FINALLY! I have a painted nursery! It's really becoming my "dream" nursery. As you know, we have a bed and armoire for the nursery. Everything else is on order and should be in soon! The next step was to paint the nursery. And of course I couldn't just PAINT it and be done! I have been wanting a harlequin (diamond) pattern on a wall in my house since we moved in. Now, I had the perfect excuse. I had researched exactly how to do it. Bo was all for it - at first. With him working full-time and going to school full-time I was really worried about when he would have time to take on this project. Well, he used his spring break to do it. It didn't take too long considering we were up really late 2 nights in a row trying to finish. And thanks to cousin Jay for helping out! It turned out PERFECT! I am so proud of my hubby. He has done a GREAT job! I have posted a few pics below of the processes. I hope to have the remaining furniture in soon and of course the much anticipated BEDDING!!

Phase 1: White Primer and 2 coats of Baby Pink!!

Phase 2: Draw a grid on the wall (we used baby powder in a chalk line). Measure your diamonds and tape them off! VERY TIME CONSUMING!!

Phase 3: Remove tape and ENJOY!!!

Don't you love Abby's night-light??

.4d.sonogram.

2009-03-14T23:16:00.008-05:00

So this past week we had our famous 4D sonogram!! It was very exciting! We had it done on Wednesday around lunch time. I was exactly 26 weeks, which is when they start doing the 4D's. I was so anxious to get a glimpse of my baby girl I couldn't wait any longer.

I was really worried we wouldn't get any good pictures, but I think we got some. She wanted to keep her hands and arms covering her face the entire time. Her feet and legs were also up over her face half the time. It's like she is getting very cramped already.... mainly due to those long legs, thanks to her daddy! You can't really tell who she looks like but I see some chubby cheeks like her mommy! The 4D is really neat, but my baby looks kinda like an alien at times. It's amazing how technology allows us to take a glimpse inside my belly through all the fluid and everything!

You can view a short clip of the video of our sonogram at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3X8vj3PcNA. You will notice in the video the sonographer is tapping on my stomach to try and get Abby's hands out of the way of her face but she wasn't going to have it. Below are a few of my favorite pics from the sonogram.

.what.a.week.

2009-03-05T22:25:00.007-06:00

I am very thankful that tomorrow is Friday because that means this week is nearly over! This was not my favorite week.

Tuesday, we went for our normal monthly doctor's appointment. The difference with this appointment was the sugar test! I was really dreading it. The test was actually just a "screening" to see if you need the actual Gestational Diabetes test. Gestational Diabetes is pretty common, but could cause complications. I had a feeling I wasn't going to pass this screening. I had basically prepared myself to not pass it - which I thought was no big deal. A lot of people do not pass the screening part. I had to drink a "sucrose" drink an hour before my appointment, which was totally NOT TASTY! I didn't have to fast or anything - which was good. I had told myself I would do good with my eating the day before though, but that didn't happen! I had a piece of King Cake and even some jelly beans that night. I was told this wouldn't effect my screening test the next morning. Anyway, long story short I did not pass the screening test. I even told the nurse who was taking my blood that I would fail. I did! My sugar was 165 (wasn't suppose to be over 145). I was fine with it. They told me what I had to do, which was go to St. Dominic's hospital (their lab) and have the actual Gestational Diabetes test. This involved fasting after midnight the day before, then getting your blood drawn every hour for 3 hours. I was really concerned the more I thought about it. I even lost is when I saw my doctor because I became really upset! I mean diabetes is not a big deal, but I just wasn't ready for it. It's on both sides of my family so I thought Gestational Diabetes meant a true diabetes later in life for me - which I will still probably have it one day. Everything else went well at the doctor. I don't even know what all went on. I just know I didn't pass my screening AND I gained another 7 pounds!

So, because I was so upset, I decide to have the gestational diabetes test done the next day (Wednesday)! I got to St. Dominic's at 7 a.m. That, in itself, was not easy. That's the first time I'd really been in the "hospital" part since mom was there. Horrible memories flooded my mind. I was just wishing she was with me! She would have normally gone with me for something like this, but I was all by myself. I mean I was going to be there for four hours - no one would have sat with me that long but mama. Anyway, my blood was taken 4 times!! Arms are still black and blue!! After the first draw, the tech taking my blood informed me that I wouldn't have to drink the "sucrose" drink again if my sugar level was below 110. Well, a few minutes later - I have to drink it! I freaked out! I just knew at that moment I had it.

Long story short - I waited and waited for the phone call from the doc! Finally today she calls me right before lunch. NO GESTATIONAL DIABETES! My labs look good she said. What a relief! Not sure what that tech was talking about b/c my fasting sugar level was only 79. I was so happy! I went to Chickfila with my coworkers and DID NOT get a salad! :)

I basically worried about that test all week long so I am ready for the weekend! I have scheduled our 4D sonogram for next Wednesday! I am so excited. I want to see what she looks like!! I will post pics as soon as I get them. As for now, my belly is just growing by the minute. Check out my next pics below of me at 25 weeks. . . .

.my.hubby.

2009-02-22T22:56:00.005-06:00

I just wanted to take the time to tell everyone what a great husband I have! He is really working hard to support his "growing" family. As most of you know, my husband Bo used to be a police officer for the Brandon Police Department. He was a Sergeant on the nightshift and the SWAT commander. He absolutely loved nearly every second of his job - including his coworkers. They were like family! He had contemplated going to law school for the past few years because he likes the legal (investigative) side of law enforcement and mainly wanted to make more money. As you know, law enforcement is extremely underpaid for what they do! Anyway, long story short, Bo quit his job at Brandon in August to be a full-time law student at Mississippi College School of Law. He figured he better go ahead and pursue it since we had nothing holding us down. We saved up plenty of money and were fully prepared for him to be unemployed. During his transition of being unemployed and a full-time law student, he had to deal with an extremely emotional and unstable wife due to my moms illness. I know it was so hard on him!

Then, after being in law school for nearly two and half months, we found out we were expecting!! BIG SURPRISE!! We knew he would continue law school and at first thought we'd be okay without him working b/c we had saved up. Well, months into the pregnancy we soon realized there's no way to do this on one income. I mean, I've got to have a whole new wardrobe, my nesting phase of wanting things around the house completed have already kicked in, and the horrible economy isn't helping much! So Bo was somewhat on the hunt for a job - at least part-time. With the economy so bad, no one was hiring! I was really getting nervous!

I truly believe God was looking out for us because Bo now has a job!! He has been employed full-time with the Rankin County Sheriff's Department for a full week!! Yes - full time, which means benefits and everything. A true blessing!! He is currently working in the jail and as a reserve deputy. He is working like crazy going to school full-time, then working full-time. I just want everyone to know how much I truly appreciate his hard work and admire him for what he's doing.

Another blessing is that Abby is not due until June, which means he will be out of school for the summer! That means he will be able to take a few weeks off work and spend time with her.

It's amazing how God has a plan for us. OUR plans have completely been turned around by GOD'S plan. As I've said before, Bo has been like a rock for me during the most difficult time of my life. I know he will be the best dad ever and I can't wait to see him with Abby. He even continues to tell me how "gorgeous" I am even though I have this tremendous belly!! ;) He just makes me feel better. I love you Bo!!

.big.belly.

2009-02-10T19:31:00.010-06:00

Well, last week we went to our monthly appointment with Dr. Cole. There wasn't much done at this visit. We were actually in and out pretty fast, which is unusual. She measured my belly for the first time and we heard the heart beat again. They also gave me the lovely "orange drink" to drink for my next appointment. This is the dreaded sugar test! Next time they will draw blood!! YIKES! :(

Also on this last visit, they did the usual "weigh in." It was the worst it's been so far - 5 pounds!! That's 5 pounds in one month! Over a pound a week! Freaked me out a bit considering it's only been a pound at each visit in the past. I've gained a total of 7 pounds so far. I guess that's not too bad, but it's more than I really want to weigh. It's worth it though. :)

Speaking of the weight gain, my belly seems to be expanding by the minute. She seems to have had a growth spurt over night! It's very obvious that I am preggers now. People do double takes when they see me. :) I'm posting some pics so you can see too!

We are still in the process of finding some baby bedding. I am hoping I have a decision by this weekend. The nursery is coming along. Her papaw (my dad) bought her some furniture. It's a cute armiore and dresser/changer. Bo's mom also helped us buy the dream bed - an iron canopy crib!! I will post pictures soon!! We've also nearly decided on her name - Abby Grace. I have been "practicing" with it and try to refer to her as "Abby" as much as possible.

I am still feeling her little "movements." They don't feel like movements or even flutters. I would describe them as what feels like muscle spasms. I lay there and feel these little "spasms," but I know it's little Abby trying to get comfy. She moves the most when I settle down and get in bed at night - even though I feel her throughout the day. It's amazing!! I do wish mama was here. I have had a few break downs this month wishing she was here with me. I can't stop thinking about "how am I going to do this without her?" Everyone seems to have their mom through this special time. I know she is watching over us but I just want her here with me. :(

Anyway, not much new to post other than some pics of "the" belly. Here I am at 21 weeks, 5 days (and those are not stretch marks, they are scratch marks from my itchy belly):

.movements.

2009-01-24T22:05:00.004-06:00

So I think I have finally felt my baby girl moving - the most amazing thing! It actually began last Saturday morning as I laid in the bed. I felt a thump or two! After the first "thump" I thought to myself, "was that her?" Then she did it again, but not as strong. I moved and didn't feel anything again. Then Tuesday at work, I was sitting in a meeting. I again felt the same "thump" but MUCH more intense. I placed a slight bit of pressure on my tummy where I felt it and she did it again but not as intense. I knew it was her!

Then, this weekend was even MORE amazing! Friday night, my husband Bo and I went for a late night snack. We went to Sonic for some milkshakes - maybe just a pregnancy craving. ;) We got back to the house, drank our shakes, and settled in to watch a movie. As we are sitting watching the movie I feel the "thumping" again. It's the most intense it's been! I placed my hand on my tummy to really feel it. I asked Bo to place his hand on my tummy just to see if he could feel it. I really didn't think he could since most tell me the husband can't feel until later on in the pregnancy. But he DID!! It was that strong!! I thought to myself - "I bet you can see this!" So sure enough you could! We both saw one good "movement" and that was it. It was so neat! I think she is already getting cramped in there with those long legs.

Anyway, no baby preperations this weekend other than some maternity clothes shopping. I finally got some decent jeans that fit and a few cute tops.

I hope everyone has a great weekend. I hope to post some belly pics soon! :)

.getting.ready.

2009-01-18T20:38:00.004-06:00

So the past two weekends, all I have done is begin my preparations for my sweet baby girl. Last weekend my sister, Bo, and I went to Brookhaven in hopes of nursery ideas and of course - maternity clothes. We went to the famous Expectations. It was a cute store and I did get some good maternity clothes, but that's about it. Aunt Jenn bout me the cutest "It's a Girl" shirt! I should be able to wear it soon and "fill it out!" Last weekend I also began cleaning out the spare bedroom to make room for the nursery. That project continued on this weekend and will take another weekend before it's completely cleared out. We've come along way though.

I've also stared wearing the ever dreaded maternity clothes! Egh! I only had one good pair of pants that I bought in Brookhaven so I wore them one day last week to work. All my other "normal" pants will either not button at all, or not button comfortably. So off to Target I go! I've got to get some comfort. I found a belly band that basically allows me to stay in my "normal" clothes but leave them unbuttoned. This has been a life saver! I have worn it nearly all week until the clothes I ordered online come in. I ordered some pants from the Gap b/c I have to have the LONG length. They should be in this week!

So my belling is really beginning to expand and I should be "really" showing in the next week or two. And hopefully I will begin feeling her move some. I can't wait!

.It's. a . . . .

2009-01-07T22:58:00.011-06:00

BABY GIRL! We found out yesterday we are having a sweet baby girl. The whole sonogram experience yesterday was very surreal. I am currently 17 weeks pregnant and I feel more connected than ever with this living human inside me. Of course I knew I was pregnant and even had one sonogram at 8 weeks, but yesterday I literally saw this little creature that was just a moving all around! It actually hit me that I have this living thing inside me! It was amazing! What amazes me the most is that she was really moving, but I couldn't feel a thing!

We had our sonogram appointment at 9 a.m. Bo, of course, went with me and my sister met us there. On the way to the appointment I told Bo.. "I really think we are having a boy." He said, "no, it's definitely a girl." Everyone, especially my sister, has been telling me all along that is was a girl. I really deep down felt it was a girl because I cannot see myself with a boy. Plus, I totally see Bo with a girl. He cares so much for his sweet, little 4 lb Maltese baby girl Maggie, so I know he would love a little "human" baby girl just as much. It just melts my heart! Now I would L-O-V-E a little boy too! And I do hope one day to have one of each! But girls in my family are far and few between. This whole experience is very bittersweet because I want my mama so very badly! Not a moment of any day passes that I do not think of her and wish she was here! I want to tell her about these things more than anything else in the world, but I know she is watching all of this from above.

Anyway, as we walk into the sonogram room the sonographer asks if we are finding out what it is. Of course I say YES! As I am laying there watching the screen she is pointing out the arms, spine, etc. Then she comes across the "area" and my immediate thoughts were.... "It's a boy! I see IT right there!" Then she randomly and casually says "It's a little girl." My heart melts and I tear up a bit. My sister is over there, "I told you!" I even had to ask... "are you sure?" She said yes and pointed it all out to me on the screen. Then she looked at all these little organs and pointed everything out to me. It was just so amazing to see! I still cannot believe this little 6 ounce baby girl is growing inside.

Everything else checked out good. I have gained another pound (3 lbs total). I feel the pounds will really start packing on in the next month or two when she hits her growth spurt. But for now, no maternity clothes yet!! I am slightly anemic so am on iron pills. Baby's heart rate is good at 145 beats per minute.

Needless to say we are thrilled and I couldn't be more excited at this point! Reality has DEFINITELY hit and we are now about to prepare our home for this miracle! I know my mom is smiling down watching every second! She is just SO happy and I cannot wait to tell my baby girl about her Mimi!

A few of the sonogram pics are below. Sorry they are not the best quality!

Check out the long legs... just like her daddy. . .

.ready.4.tuesday.

2009-01-01T11:18:00.003-06:00

Tuesday morning at 9 will be a big step in this pregnancy. We will hopefully find out if Baby Luckey is boy or girl! I will keep everyone posted!

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and Happy New year!

.baby.luckey.

2008-12-09T12:31:00.005-06:00

Welcome to my first "Luckey Family" blog! Most of you probably already know by now, but if not here's the news. . . . . Bo and I are expecting our first "human" baby in June 2009! SURPRISE!! We were very surprised - to say the least. As you all know, we already have our precious baby girl Maggie, who is our 4 lb Maltese. We are also caring for my mom's chihuahua, Roxie, who is almost 8 years old.

We actually found out the news on November 1st. I had been battling a really bad cold for nearly a week and was on antibiotics, as well as all kinds of cold meds. The major side effect of the antibiotic was severe nausea. I had been feeling pretty nauseous that whole week and it all hit me on Halloween night. That night, my sister and I, along with our hubbies, had gone out to eat and I couldn't even eat my meal b/c I was so nauseated! Jennifer said at that very moment - "you are pregnant!" I basically laughed it off thinking - "yea right!" Later that night, I got home still feeling pretty nauseated and also feeling VERY bloated. I decided I might as well take a test since I already have some - JUST to be safe. So, I took the test and it was negative - or so I thought. It had a very dark pink line and a VERY, VERY faint second pink line. I thought I took the test wrong so I assured myself it was negative. Bo kept telling me "your pregnant!" I assured him I wasn't. He even went so far as to make the faint line darker with a pink highlighter! Crazy! :) I decided the next morning I would take another one. . . .

I woke up at 8 am to let the dogs out, but before I did I took the test again. I placed it on the counter and went about my morning. I didn't look at it for like 15 minutes! I just knew it would be negative when I went back in there. So minutes later I glance at the test and very loudly start repeating. . . "Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!!" Bo literally jumps out of bed and asks "what's wrong?" I tell him "I'm pregnant" and I BURST into tears!!! So many thoughts ran through my head over and over again - "what have I done? what do I do? how am I going to do this without my mama?" I somewhat composed myself after lying there for a few minutes. I knew I had to tell my sister immediately but wasn't sure how to do that. I wanted it to be special, but I was so frantic I just wanted to pick up the phone!! We had plans to go eat with my sister, dad, grandma, and cousins for lunch that day. I wasn't sure if I would make it through the meal, but I did. Bo and I left after lunch to find something to give my dad and sister in order to "break the news." I finally just said.... "we'll get an early birthday card for my sister but it will be to 'aunt jennifer.'"

Long story summed up, my sister, dad, in-laws, and entire family now know! I have been to the doctor twice now and I am starting week 14 this week! (I found out at 8 weeks). My doctor says everything looks good and I should know what the sex is on my next appointment, which is January 6th!

Below is the announcement I gave to my family . . . .