Starry Nights

Years ago, I remember packing into the car with my mom and dad and heading to Shelby Farms for Starry Nights. Back then, it was breath taking. At that very moment there is no other placed we would have rather been. Starry Nights, is a display of lights that you travel thru in you car where you find yourself smiling and dancing along to the Christmas lights with the Oooohs and aahhhs.

This year, it was a little bit different. Starry Nights found its way back to Shelby Farms and I could hardly wait to go. I tried to trick Z into taking me by tempting him with dinner at Houston's first. For some reason, luck was on his side and we were never able to find a good time to go. I just thought it would be so fun, sipping on hot cocoa, listening to Christmas music and spending a little time with the hubs.....

Yesterday, I went to the doctor and decided to hang out with Mom for the night. (it wont be much longer before I am no longer the priority...ha) Instead of finishing, I mean starting, the Christmas shopping, we decided that we would take Brianna and Addison to Starry Nights for the magical experience. After running by Dunkin Donuts for a sweet treat ending with a dozen donuts that were no good, we found ourselves sitting....waiting...inching along. Thank goodness we went the "short" way and avoided the 2 miles standstill from Walnut grove.

ps. never offer a policeman a donut. I found myself offering one up before I even realized the whole policeman/donut shop thing. He nicely replied, "Contrary to popular belief all policeman do not eat donuts". Naturally, we busted into hysterical laughing and he did not...

Without boring you with all the details, this is experience was not what I had planned. The entrance was decorated with the solar system, the first large light display was of a lady blowing smoke as Addison simply put it, and there was a random Christmas fox every so often in the trees. Brianna said, umm this isn't really worth it because it doesn't even have anything to do with Christmas. I have to agree. If you see Mom out and about ask her about her experience....she slept the entire time.

Did I mention that this took 3 hours from start to finish...

It has been a productive weekend...

Washed up and ready to go:

Don't you even begin to worry that my sweet little Angel is going to be seen without the most precious outfit on. He has more clothes than Z and I put together....that is okay for now, but I forsee it being a problem in the near future! All of his clothes are washed, hung/folded and ready to go.

(ps. I think I might have to change him atleast three times a day to get him in all of these sweet things!)

It is good to have a handy daddy:

Z puts together the last of the little man's contraptions. This is the coolest bouncy seat on the block I can assure you...you can connect your MP3 player...Z says it will all be Ole Miss related tunes.
The Bags are Ready:

No matter how prepared I think we are, I have a feeling we will be flying to Memphis and realize we have left half of what we need...but for now, we are on top of it and it is in the car ready to go.

Tis' the Season....

Z and I started a new Christmas tradition this year, with a little help for Lala.

Each year we have our "snob" tree that I find very pretty and festive. It is all decked out in a certain color and might even take your breath away! :) I love it, Z likes it so why change it?

Our new tradition happens to involve a Christmas tree as well. I purchased a 6 foot tree that I am going to decorate every year according to what is going on in our lives. This year we have a little something special going on that involves having a baby. What tree would be more fitting than a BABY BOY tree? I know right, it doesn't get much better! It is so cute...I can hardly stand it! I can't wait for the years to come to see what themes we will be using!

What are you family Christmas Traditions?

A Parent's-to-be weekend getaway!

Several months ago, it hit me that Z and I were about to become parents and it would never just be "us" again. I really am okay with this but it is kinda eye opening at the same time. We will never just wake up and go to a football game, we can never just jump in the car and head out to dinner some where random, we can never just sit on the couch kicked back for hours watching football. We are going to always have something "else" going on. We will have a baby to feed, a diaper to change, a bath to give, a book to read and much more laundry to do. Its okay, it really is. We are so excited about the arrival of W very very soon.

In preparation for W's arrival, we wanted to have a weekend getaway. Of course you already know that planning this had to work around football season and of course my weekend work schedule. Before we knew it, we were into the month of December. I am weeks away from having my first child and we couldn't venture off to the mountains or the beach! We found ourselves in Greenwood, Ms.

The Alluvian, is a boutique spa and hotel. It is in downtown Greenwood and is owned by the same people as Viking Range. Last Friday, we set off to relax. Before we knew it, we were right in the middle of the HUGE Greenwood parade. Ha, you might say but seriously, this is huge to these people. One of Z's workers actually took off for this event. So we joined right in and watched from our hotel window. There were all types of floats, characters and bands but I must say I was really shocked at a few. One in particular was a band that was really a "drop it like its hot" type. Naturally, I laughed but loved the rhythm. As the came to a pause I caught a glimpse at the sign....I thought my eyes were playing tricks on me.....AMERICAN WAY MARCHING BAND FROM MEMPHIS, TN. I mean really, I should have known... I don't even think I need to say anything else about this now that I have revealed the school. Just remember you can indeed drop it like it's hot when dancing to The First Noel.

For dinner on Friday, we ate at Gairdina's restaurant. It is located in the hotel and of course is also run by the Viking people. I don't know which was better, the food or the atmosphere? It was a small little restaurant that had about 13 tables. Each table was in its own separate area closed off by three walls and a sliding curtain. It was the most peaceful and calm eating atmosphere. You were not distracted by the hustle and bustle of the workers of the out of control kids that sat a table over. No one was eyeing you down as you eat the magnificent cheesecake....it was perfect!

Saturday was a day for relaxing. I had an amazing 1 hour mommy to be massage that I can't even explain to you. The atmosphere in the spa area is unlike one I have ever seen. The therapist was perfect and I enjoyed it more and I thought possible! If you ever go ask for Moya. While I was pampered, Z has his ideal relaxation time. No he did not get a massage or pedicure, he got to lounge around in the room and watch football without one disruption!

We had a perfect getaway and can't wait until we get to do it all over again!

All about the little man. I am now 35 weeks and have only 4 weeks and a few days to go. W is growing and growing and so his his momma. It is now difficult to put my own shoes on and if I have to bend over I get this wonderful shower of stars when I come back up. I continue to learn how to adjust to carrying around this baby. Everything is checking out good at the Doctor. W is measuring a little big for the week I am at but the Dr. does not seem as worried as she did. 2 weeks ago he was measuring 3 weeks ahead...not he is only about 1. He had a major growth spurt. When he moves around I can feel it more than ever. We are getting everything in line for him to be pushed into this bitterly cold world! Prayers would very much be appreciated as I continue to work, my feet continue to get bigger and bigger and breaths shorter and shorter! :) All in all, I can't complain too much.

where in the world are we?

We are here! Do to an overwhelming request for a blog post I thought I would pop in and let you know what's up!

Sorry for the lack of post... Z downloaded a virus on our computer by mistake. Thanks to our favorite Lala, its fixed but taking a break in Memphis.

As for me and Z we are doing great. Just busy getting our little guys clothes washed and everything ready for his arrival. We have worked so hard that we had to take a weekend getaway ourselves..we are in the Mississippi delta for relaxing weekend. We have been here for a couple of hours and I already have blog worthy material... Get excited!

Operation Christmas Child 2009: COMPLETE!

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

All of the shoe boxes are in and counted for....the total number of boxes collected this year is: 55!
I think this is amazing and I know it would never happen without great friends and family!! Each box was perfectly packed and then wrapped! I am so excited to see where the final destination of each box will be! Once you receive a email telling you the destination will you please let me know!

This morning, I was able to work at the OCC shoe box drop off location here in Oxford. It was a whole different side to the process and I learned a lot. It is amazing to see the boxes roll in from a small community and just think about all the lives that will be dedicated to Christ over our simple gift!

Thanks again to all of you who participated! It really means a lot and is a testimony to the life my Dad lived! Continue to pray for your box as it makes its journey to a small child and that it may have such an impact on them to bring others to Christ!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Our Little Man

When we first found out that we were going to have a baby everyone started telling us things to do. One thing that Z's co-worker encouraged him to do was a 4d ultrasound. I really didn't care to have one at first but Z has insisted! So here we are.

We finally made an appointment with Baby's Kickin in Tupelo about a month ago. Zach came home from work sick last night and spent all day in the bed running a fever. He demanded that we keep the appointment. So we went today.

Its a good thing that I was prepared for how today would go. Remember every time we have ultrasounds of W he picks one position and stays and it is always one that doesn't work out to well..Lets just say that we know he has 10 fingers and 10 toes...all of which were in his face a majority of the time. We got some great shots of him and he is PERFECT! We are just so in love all over again.

He has this thing where he likes to throw his head back and extend his neck. He did this about 15 times during the hour and it really scares Mommy so I wish he would stop! He his already head down and practicing breathing like a champ. We asked the ultrasound tech how much he weighs. She was unable to tell us. We guess 3.5lb and she said ummm closer to 4. Ha, go figure!

Happy Veterans Day

A Soldier's Silent Night

TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS, HE LIVED ALL ALONE,

IN A ONE BEDROOM HOUSE MADE OF PLASTER AND STONE.

I HAD COME DOWN THE CHIMNEY WITH PRESENTS TO GIVE,

AND TO SEE JUST WHO IN THIS HOME DID LIVE.

I LOOKED ALL ABOUT, A STRANGE SIGHT I DID SEE,

NO TINSEL, NO PRESENTS, NOT EVEN A TREE.

NO STOCKING BY MANTLE, JUST BOOTS FILLED WITH SAND,

ON THE WALL HUNG PICTURES OF FAR DISTANT LANDS.

WITH MEDALS AND BADGES, AWARDS OF ALL KINDS,

A SOBER THOUGHT CAME THROUGH MY MIND.

FOR THIS HOUSE WAS DIFFERENT, IT WAS DARK AND DREARY,

I FOUND THE HOME OF A SOLDIER, ONCE I COULD SEE CLEARLY.

THE SOLDIER LAY SLEEPING, SILENT, ALONE,

CURLED UP ON THE FLOOR IN THIS ONE BEDROOM HOME.

THE FACE WAS SO GENTLE, THE ROOM IN SUCH DISORDER,

NOT HOW I PICTURED A UNITED STATES SOLDIER.

WAS THIS THE HERO OF WHOM I'D JUST READ?

CURLED UP ON A PONCHO, THE FLOOR FOR A BED?

I REALIZED THE FAMILIES THAT I SAW THIS NIGHT,

OWED THEIR LIVES TO THESE SOLDIERS WHO WERE WILLING TO FIGHT.

SOON ROUND THE WORLD, THE CHILDREN WOULD PLAY,

AND GROWNUPS WOULD CELEBRATE A BRIGHT CHRISTMAS DAY.

THEY ALL ENJOYED FREEDOM EACH MONTH OF THE YEAR,

BECAUSE OF THE SOLDIERS, LIKE THE ONE LYING HERE.

I COULDN'T HELP WONDER HOW MANY LAY ALONE,

ON A COLD CHRISTMAS EVE IN A LAND FAR FROM HOME.

THE VERY THOUGHT BROUGHT A TEAR TO MY EYE,

I DROPPED TO MY KNEES AND STARTED TO CRY;

THE SOLDIER AWAKENED AND I HEARD A ROUGH VOICE,

"SANTA DON'T CRY, THIS LIFE IS MY CHOICE;

I FIGHT FOR FREEDOM, I DON'T ASK FOR MORE,

MY LIFE IS MY GOD, MY COUNTRY, MY CORPS."

THE SOLDIER ROLLED OVER AND DRIFTED TO SLEEP,

I COULDN'T CONTROL IT, I CONTINUED TO WEEP.

I KEPT WATCH FOR HOURS, SO SILENT AND STILL

AND WE BOTH SHIVERED FROM THE COLD NIGHT'S CHILL.

I DIDN'T WANT TO LEAVE ON THAT COLD, DARK, NIGHT,

THIS GUARDIAN OF HONOR SO WILLING TO FIGHT.

THEN THE SOLDIER ROLLED OVER, WITH A VOICE SOFT AND PURE,

WHISPERED, "CARRY ON SANTA, IT'S CHRISTMAS DAY, ALL IS SECURE."

ONE LOOK AT MY WATCH, AND I KNEW HE WAS RIGHT.

"MERRY CHRISTMAS MY FRIEND, AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT."

31 weeks

What baby King is doing at 31 weeks according to babycenter.com

He measures over 16 inches long.

Keeps his mommy awake at night, already

Weighs in at a big 3.3 lbs

He can turn his head side to side

He is getting to be a plump little man

Catching up..

Oh, I hope you were not holding your breath for a King blog update these past few weeks! I have said this before and I am sure I will say it again, but to only work 3 days a week, I sure don't have much spare time!

Well to catch you up on a few happenings here in O-town...

I am 3o weeks pregnant and can hardly believe it! The time seems to be flying right on by. I know it will continue to do that since the Holidays are right around the corner. "Wy" seems to be doing just fine. He is moving more than ever and I can even tell when there is a bony body part sticking in my side. It is amazing to even think about the whole pregnancy process. We look forward to meeting our little guy but don't want to rush things. I will start to rush him here when I think he might be approaching the 8 lb mark! I go for my next Doctors appointment on Wednesday and then Zach and I will go for a 4D ultrasound on Thursday! I can't wait to see how all of that turns out. To actually be able to put a face on this little miracle. Don't worry, I will post very quickly after...

Mom came to visit on Monday and got to spend a few days with me! We had a good time getting lots of things done! We stayed up late Monday night wrapping shoe boxes....shoe box update coming soon...but you all are amazing friends!!

Tuesday we cleaned a bit and then headed out for a day of shopping and a quick visit with the Amish. I have my bassinet from when I was an infant and we were going to try to get it repaired so my baby can use it. Unfortunately, after 11 little babies sleeping in it, it was going to take more to fix it and we were not even sure if it would work. Mr. Gingrich of the Randolph Amish community is going to make one just like it for me! I am really excited about it. We are going to try to get the legs from the "old" one and put on the "new" one. We will see how it all plays out.

Wednesday was another busy day! We woke up early and I went to meet Michael, a local photographer, that is just starting his business. I was his first maternity guinea pig and we had fun! I am not really into pictures of my bare belly and don't think I will be framing any of those, but he needed me! We will see if any of them are posting worthy....I gotta make sure you wont be blinded by the white! After a quick bite to eat, Mom and I were back to work! We got the baby room completed, for the time being. I think it looks GREAT! I had a wonderful time with my Momma and think that she is the best one out there!

Wednesday night, I had bunco and a combined baby shower for Toni at my house. As usual, it was tons of fun and I look forward to the next one! The only picture I got was from Toni's diaper cake. . .If I say so myself, I think it turned out pretty darn cute! ;)

Hope everyone is enjoying the beautiful days and chilly nights!

What they never tell you...

I have had a couple of really good friends that have already birthed their first and even second child. I have family who have brought many children into this world. I have many co-workers who have graced this city with their offspring. I have sat for hours in a Labor and Delivery class and I have my nursing licenses. But, what I have not had is the "DOWN RIGHT TRUTH TO PREGNANCY"!



No one ever felt the urge to tell me the small things that make pregnancy not so glamorous. All you ever hear is, I got sick, but I looked beautiful! Yeah, well they were right, I got sick but I am still waiting on the beautiful part to kick in. I don't think dealing with more acne now that I ever did in my teenage years is attractive, or fun for that matter. Right when I need my beauty sleep the most, the leg cramps kick in....the severe leg cramps...the leg cramps that wake me up in the middle of my sleep and cause me to shake my husband so violently that he thinks he is going to be holding his son in a matter of minutes....the leg cramps that make me scream out loud! Ugh, the worst charlie horse you can ever imagine.



"Oh, but Erica, you have lots of energy in this stage...Don't you?" Ummm, no actually I don't but thanks for asking. I feel like I have worked the longest night shift with the most demanding crazy patient ever. I feel as if 12 hours of sleep is no where near enough. When my alarm rings, I find myself counting the hours until I can get back in the bed. Excuse me while I yawn.

With all of this said, I L-O-V-E being pregnant. It is amazing how all of a sudden your focus goes from decorating your kitchen and bathroom to a baby room. You are excited about buying a stroller and bottles and don't really care about that new purse or the shoes you saw. It is the most thrilling thing when your baby is doing cartwheels in your watermelon size stomach and someone else is there to feel it.

It is the little things that make all the horrible things endurable.....bring on the acne, cramps, and feeling of exhaustion. Wyatt you are going to be sooo worth it!

It's Beginning to Look a lot like Christmas. . .

Well not really, but kinda-sorta.

I have started collecting shoe boxes, packing shoe boxes, and getting them wrapped! It is so exciting to see the shoe boxes roll in and think about all the little lives that will be touched!

It is amazing how different this year is from last. I have learned several lessons. For starters, every year I always have a couple of people that need the actual shoe box and I have been asking everyone I know for them. Then the light went off in my little head...CALL A SHOE STORE! So I did exactly that. A store here in Oxford displays the shoes and saves the boxes for people who ask for them! So do not fear, I have plenty of shoe boxes!

The online shipping fee that everyone pays prior to giving me the shoe box is amazing! I am always kinda nervous about handling other people's money. This way, it is all in your hands and I just tape the label with the barcode right on the box and we are ready to ship. Plus, this way you can claim it on your taxes! ;)

I have found a few "jewels" around town and feel like I need to share them with you! I ran into Fred's today to pick up some extra soap and gum for a few boxes and ran into the kid asile. I found hard back books that are all about Baby Jesus. How perfect? I mean we are trying to minister to these sweet children and I bought everyone they had...8! Oh, they were only $1.00! If you ask me, you can beat that. So, if you pass a Freds, run in and grab a book for your box!

I picked up two boxes from my sweet cousin and in each of her boxes, she had a "all about me" coloring page! As many times as I have searched this website, I have never seen them. So if you are participating this year and have small kids, print this page out and place it in your box! (http://www.samaritanspurse.org/images/occ_art/ColoringPages.pdf)

Another thing we are doing this year, is placing a card in each box that allows you to put your address on it. This tells the child who packed the box and gives them the opportunity to write you back.

We are approaching our goal....

As of October 16, 2009 we have 17 boxes!

Our goal for Nov 1, 2009 is 50 boxes!

Wyatt's Baby Shower

Thanks to my best friend from high school, Lisa, Wyatt has got it made. Sunday, we had a baby shower and we are truly blessed. I am still in shock at all the wonderful gifts we received! It was such a wonderful shower. Lisa had it all decked out from the blue punch with the rubber ducky floating to the blue napkins with Wyatt's monogram! How thoughtful was she? Now, you know why she is my very best friend!



We are so thrilled about all of the clothes, bibs, blankets, bottles, toys, monitor, swing, bumbo, books, bathtubs, snowman suit, bouncy seat, diapers, paci's, giftcards, night lights, diaper genie and so much more. (As I am typing this, Zach is putting together all of the little mans toys together and he just made the comment, "man people must really love us"!)

Thanks to all my wonderful family and friends for a perfect shower!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Put your bow tie on and lets eat!

I know, I know, the title is a tad bit scary!

When I was outside meeting new neighbors and visiting the "old", I should have been inside stirring away at the stove and making the perfect meal for my love. Who is going to argue, it is much more fun jibber jabbering with friends. That is when my husband pulled up and I thought uh-oh! I have not even gone to Kroger...Its another Abners kind of night.

Nope, Skillet lasagna was the perfect solution! It is so easy and it is really good. I mean lets be honest, it is no gourmet dinner. It is one of those type of dinners that is semi-comforting, in the sense that it takes you back to eating lasagna at home with the parents. So give it a try on the night you would rather run your mouth.

Bow Tie Lasagna

Ingredients:
1 lb lean ground beef
1 small chopped onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes with juice
1-1/4 cup water
8 oz tomato sauce
1 tbsp dried parsley flakes
1 tsp dried basil leaves
1 tsp dried oregano leaves
1 tsp salt
2.5 cup bow tie pasta
1 cup fat free cottage cheese
1/4 cup fat free grated Parmesan cheese
Shredded fat free mozzarella cheese for garnish

Directions:
In a large skillet, brown beef with onions and garlic. Drain.

Add tomatoes, water, tomato sauce, parsley, basil, oregano, and salt.

Stir in uncooked pasta.

Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.

Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until pasta is tender.

Combine cottage and Parmesan cheeses.

Sprinkle in basil and pepper to taste.

Drop cheese mixture by rounded tablespoons onto pasta mixture.

Cover and cook for 5 minutes more.

Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and serve.

I cut all ingredients in half for just Z and I and we still had some left over!

Operation Christmas Child: Year 2

It is hard to believe it has almost been a year since I ran around town gathering a shoebox here and a shoebox there. What is really hard to believe is that I am signing up for another year after I wrapped 40 shoe boxes! :) It was well worth it and I know the kids enjoyed every individual piece of the Christmas box! My Dad has to be proud, he loved a smiling child!

With all of that said, here we go again. Gather your shoebox and start to packing it up! I can hardly wait to start the whole process! I have already ordered the "Santa" paper and it should be here next week! I have also purchased a few Bible story activities to place in each box to really show these kids what it is all about!

I learned a few lessons last year and I am ready to do better this year! The first lesson I learned was to start early, so we are doing just that! I need all Christmas boxes by Nov 1st. It would be great if you can get it to me earlier!

If your did not receive an email for some reason about this project please leave me a message and I will be sure to forward it to you.

Oh, what a better day to start this project off than today! We started this tradition in Memory of my Dad and his love for Christmas and Children. Today is his Birthday. Do you think he might be eating an OLE MISS CAKE? HOTTY TODDY!

25 weeks and counting...

Oh the joys of registering...again

Well here we are about 2 years later registering again.

I must say that I loved registering for wedding gifts but baby stuff is a different story. I am very grateful that friends and family are going to help us prepare for Wyatt's arrival but let me just fill you in.

The ins and outs of Wyatts registry...

First of all, how many bottles can they possibly come up with? I mean really. Every single one says "help reduce colic". Then you have you BPA free bottles, glass bottles, wide neck bottles, natural flow, fast feeders, slow flow, breast milk bottles, medical grade silicone, and I am already getting overwhelmed again. Really, have you ever heard a newborn specify which bottle they want? So how did I decide? I chose a really simple one...Dr. Brown's, help reduce colic, standard, BPA free, glass bottles! I know you just had to gasp for air. Glass bottles? Yes, I did, I chose glass bottles. I don't really have a perfectly good reason other than all of this plastic talk. You know, plastic causes cancer and I must have the best for my little man. I have faced reality and I am also registered for plastic for practical reasons such as football games and eating out and wherever I find myself toting this little guy around.

Car seats, strollers and travel systems, OH MY! Do you buy these a separate car seat and stroller or do you buy a combined set better known as a travel system? Do you buy the cute trendy one that is gender perfect or do you think ahead and get a non gender specific one? Don't worry Wyatt will be strolling around in the Chicco Cortina Keyfit 30 travel system, in red!

What are you thoughts on this product? This is the Summer Infant Soothing Spa and Shower.

This is babiesRus description:
"For parents wanting to give their baby the very best experience during bath time there's the Summer Infant Soothing Spa & Shower. Not only can you rinse your little one with clean, warm water with the motorized shower but your baby can experience their very own whirlpool bath. From birth and up the Summer Infant Soothing Spa & Shower has everything you need to bathe baby comfortably and safely."

Do you think Wyatt will one day feel neglected since I didn't choose to provide him with the ultimate spa treatment for bath time?

Then we get into the baby entertainment and little boy clothing. I am not even going to go there. Way to many decisions or lack there of! :)

After all the pro and conning, I think we have picked out some perfect stuff for a perfect little man! I can't wait to actually get to use my glass bottles and wheel him around in that Rebel stroller!

By the way, Zach was not along for this last registering trip. He would have never survived! My mom was even begging to leave!

Ole Miss vs. Southeastern Lousianna

Saturday was the first home game for our Rebels. Due to a daily flood for the last week, we decided we would grove at home and watch the UT vs. Florida game with our Memphis friends. We had a few tasty treats and enjoyed the game!

It was a great night for Ole Miss football as the rain held off and we were teased with the not so frequent breeze. The Rebels played on the new field which I might add is A-MAZING!

If you are not aware, every game start with a surprise "Are you ready" done by a movie start, athlete or someone that is special to Ole Miss. Enjoy week 1.

OVER IT!

So are you sick of the babycenter updates? I am kinda over them myself. So here is the King update!



We are at week 23 and have a lot going on! I finally decided on Wyatt's bedding and it is currently being made. Therefore I had to decide on a paint color. This brings me to a whole new can of worms. First of all what is the point of a color chart if when you paint it looks nothing like it. I mean, that kinda happened. Here is the truth. I wanted apple green. So Zach and I debated and debated and finally decided on the perfect green. After Zach purchased the perfect green I found a green I liked better. Well, there was no making changes at this point. My green was dull and I wanted bright. Oh well, I got over it. We primed the room and we painted. The more we painted the brighter it got! So it all worked out for the best. We have a bright apple green room. I know it sounds heinous but its cute and will look perfect! I can't imagine what I would be typing if I had bought the brighter green to start with, I might be in tears. I am withholding any pictures until the room is complete so you wont think I am a nut! The bed is on order and will be arriving within the next month! So hopefully before to long we will have a baby room that is ready to go...



Wait, have I told you the baby name? I don't think so. . .Wyatt Leeton. Clearly you get the Wyatt. Leeton is a family name on Zach's side. Isn't it the cutest name you have ever heard? :)



As for me and Wyatt: We are growing. And growing. It is amazing how pregnant I have become in just a few days. He is a wiggle worm at all times except when he is getting an ultrasound. He really likes to move at 6:00 in the am. That is perfectly fine with me on work days but on my rest days it would be nice if he would let me do just that...rest! Who am I kidding, I love feeling that little prince move around!



Oops, I forgot to post about my Dr. Appt last Tuesday. Zach and I went bright and early for an ultrasound to check the little mans heart out. We saw all four chambers and everything was just fine! What a blessing. He of course did not want to budge at all. Finally he moved just enough that the ultrasound tech could check him out. He weighs 1 lb and 3 oz. Yes, my friends, he is over weight! After she told Zach that bit of info she also informed him that before to long I will be gaining a half of a pound a week and he quickly did the math. "We are going to have a 10 lb baby," he calmly said. I on the other hand, very uncalmly said, "OH NO! We will be doing something before it gets to that point"! 10 lbs, I mean that is like delivering a 6 week old and that is not cool. We will see....My doctor took a look at everything and it all seems to be progressing right along.


Look for a belly picture later this week...

Ole Miss vs. Memphis

I do realize I am a week late. Hey, at this point I am doing good just to post.

Last Sunday we went to the Liberty Bowl Stadium for the final time as regular season Rebel fans. The day started out with a pep rally on Beale Street. It was really neat to see all the Ole Miss fans come together on historic Beale for some entertainment to get everyone fired up for a great season. It was a sunny and hot day as you can imagine.

We found ourselves on the Solberg's doorstep where we munched on some good Sonic cheddar Peppers, a few chicken tenders...okay 100 of them, and some other tasty snacks! After settling our hunger pains we started the trek to the stadium...HA! What a task for a pregnant chick in cute sandals.

Finally at the game we got comfy in our seats and were ready to cheer on our rebs! I was amazed at the people that we sporting "bust a nutt" tshirts and the classy fans Memphis fans we came across. After a rough start to Rebel football and the extremely hot conditions, I got a phone call from Rhonda. She was highly suggesting that I leave the game. It did not take much twisting my arm because I was kinda worried I might get dehydrated.

The Rebels pulled off a big win and I had a great chat with my favorite cousin! :)

I hate that next year the Tigers wont be able to try a new nutt cracker on our Rebels but all I can say is, Keep it classy Memphis!

22 weeks

I can not believe how fast time is flying as we prepare for Wyatt. We are staying pretty busy trying to get the fabric for baby bedding, registering while in Memphis and getting the room just right. Zach plans to start the painting process today.

From Baby Center:
At 11 inches (the length of a spaghetti squash) and almost 1 pound, your baby is starting to look like a miniature newborn. His lips, eyelids, and eyebrows are becoming more distinct, and he's even developing tiny tooth buds beneath his gums. His eyes have formed, but his irises (the colored part of the eye) still lack pigment. If you could see inside your womb, you'd be able to spot the fine hair (lanugo) that covers his body and the deep wrinkles on his skin, which he'll sport until he adds a padding of fat to fill them in. Inside his belly, his pancreas — essential for the production of some important hormones — is developing steadily.

We will keep you updated.

Its all about being a Rebel Nutt!!

Its football time in Oxford...

And, Its great to be a Rebel, finally! We have been through some tough times as Rebel fans the last 6 or so years. Maybe, just maybe, this is OUR year! The funny thing is several years ago when I knew I would marry Zach one day we had a very serious football talk. Zach is a die hard fan. On game day there is only one concern or thought process and it is OLE MISS FOOTBALL. So we were chatting about how this would play out in our marriage. I don't remember exactly how it ended other than me coming to the realization that I might as well just become as die hard as he is so we are both happy on game day. My last comment to him was very vivid. "Zach, one day I am going to plan to have a baby due on the biggest game of the year so you have to choose me over football". He laugh and said yeah right. Here we are several years down the road and expecting our first baby. No I did not plan this pregnancy around football but the Lord did. January 10th 2010 is when Baby King is due to make his grand entrance and the SEC Championship game is December 4, 2010. All the BCS bowl games will take place Jan. 1-7, 2010. If you are catching on, the Kings will not be able to attend any of these, to close to delivery...Oh the Lord works in mysterious ways Zach King! ***If in any of these games and in Labor expect to visit me in the delivery room watching its on the TV****


So with all that said, HOTTY TODDY to a winning year Rebs!

Oh, take a look at who all is in the top 20...where is good ol Auburn?

and we are HALF way there...

Today marks 20 weeks for us in the King home. We are really excited! Things are starting to come along. . .

a.) There is no doubt I am pregnant when you see me. I officially have the "baby bump"!
b.) We ordered the baby crib and dresser for our little prince.
c.) I made my first online purchase for baby clothes!
d.) The kicks have proven themselves worthy and I know what they are now. Zach even felt his little boy kick for the first time today!

Here is the weekly babycenter update:

Your baby weighs about 10 1/2 ounces now. He's also around 6 1/2 inches long from head to bottom and about 10 inches from head to heel — the length of a banana. (For the first 20 weeks, when a baby's legs are curled up against his torso and hard to measure, measurements are taken from the top of his head to his bottom — the "crown to rump" measurement. After 20 weeks, he's measured from head to toe.)

He's swallowing more these days, which is good practice for his digestive system. He's also producing meconium, a black, sticky by-product of digestion. This gooey substance will accumulate in his bowels, and you'll see it in his first soiled diaper (some babies pass meconium in the womb or during delivery).

Week 19

This week has been just another week in the baby growing business. Nothing thrilling to report other than it is a BOY! Most of you probably caught on to that last post.

Babycenter:

Your baby's sensory development is exploding! Her brain is designating specialized areas for smell, taste, hearing, vision, and touch. Some research suggests that she may be able to hear your voice now, so don't be shy about reading aloud, talking to her, or singing a happy tune if the mood strikes you.

Your baby weighs about 8 1/2 ounces and measures 6 inches, head to bottom — about the size of a large heirloom tomato. Her arms and legs are in the right proportions to each other and the rest of her body now. Her kidneys continue to make urine and the hair on her scalp is sprouting. A waxy protective coating called the vernix caseosa is forming on her skin to prevent it from pickling in the amniotic fluid.

I will keep you updated on my baby boys movement. So far I am not convinced I have felt it!

I'm having a BABY!

Yesterday was the big day.

Mom and I set off for the doctor and I had it all planned perfectly. I ate early so my baby would be awake and cooperative. I planned a stop at sonic on the way for a Route 44 Dr. Pepper so the caffeine would get that baby swimming around. By the time I reached the Dr.s office I was suppose to have an alert baby, a full bladder and a VHS tape in hand.

Ha! What a Joke!

The only thing that worked out as planned was the VHS tape and a full bladder!

Little King was in the fetal position with his bottom up and foot pulled back blocking the view of "its" parts and didn't have any plans of moving any time soon. The ultrasound tech was able to get the measurements of his brain, limbs, spine and all that jazz but was unable to determine a gender for a good 15 minutes. After some poking and shaking on her part, the baby finally moved around enough to see HIS jewels and his sweet little face! Needless to say we were not very shocked because Mom has been saying it was a boy from day 1 and I have felt that too.

When I got home Zach was still smiling ear to ear. I don't care what they say, telling a man that he is going to have a son just does something to them! We are really excited that we will be attending tball practice, soccer games, football games and that I will be sending the boys out for a weekend of hunting/fishing every now and then! I do think I have a lot to learn. I am really good at the hair bow thing...

Zach and I will go back to the Doctor on Sept 8 for a check up and another Ultrasound since baby boy was not working with us. We need to check his heart out. Everything seems to be fine but they want to look again.

I will say this, it is amazing how you take these different steps to realize you are having a baby. When I first found out I was pregnant I found it hard to believe. I just wanted to see the little blob that was making me so sick. I finally saw that first ultrasound and truly believed I was pregnant. Then finding out it was a boy really made it real! I think I finally believe what they have been telling me....I'm Pregnant!


**I feel a tad bit wierd posting a picture of my little man exposing himself, so I will have to ponder that***

18 weeks!

From Baby Center:

Head to rump, your baby is about 5 1/2 inches long (about the length of a bell pepper) and he weighs almost 7 ounces. He's busy flexing his arms and legs — movements that you'll start noticing more and more in the weeks ahead. His blood vessels are visible through his thin skin, and his ears are now in their final position, although they're still standing out from his head a bit. A protective covering of myelin is beginning to form around his nerves, a process that will continue for a year after he's born. If you're having a girl, her uterus and fallopian tubes are formed and in place. If you're having a boy, his genitals are noticeable now, but he may hide them from you during an ultrasound.
Pray for tomorrow's Dr visit. This is when we find out if it is a boy or a girl and most importantly learn if the baby and its organs are healthy!

The Pope Girls Come to Oxford.

Tuesday night I found three girls knocking at more door for a place to stay...Lala, Brianna, and Addison! We had a fun couple of days together. We went to visit the Amish where we bought the best watermelon and some fresh picked okra! Then to a baby store in Tupelo where Addison decided I needed to have a baby girl all because of one carseat! Finally, we stopped at Chuck E Cheese and had a grand time!

We settled in for the night with the girls cooking dinner with me and Lala picking weeds and replanting my flowerbeds. For dessert we had tasty ice cream cone cupcakes that the girls made and decorated!

We might have a few models on our hands, what do you think?

This is the reaction I got when I asked them what they would think if I left them to live with the Amish!

17 Weeks= 4 Months

You do the math on this one. Zach and I argue about this. I like to say I am 4 months at 16 weeks. Zach likes to say, "you don't say you have a 1 year old when it is 10 months". That is why I keep him around, he is so smart! So needless to say, I am finally 4 months! :)




How your baby's growing:Your baby's skeleton is changing from soft cartilage to bone, and the umbilical cord — her lifeline to the placenta — is growing stronger and thicker. Your baby weighs 5 ounces now (about as much as a turnip), and she's around 5 inches long from head to bottom. She can move her joints, and her sweat glands are starting to develop.



I am not sure if I feel that baby moving or not but something woke me up last night! I will keep you updated on all that....


Having a blast with my girls....when they let me relax for a minute I will update on all the fun we have had!

Who Knows? Avocado for now...

I think it is so funny how everyone thinks I am having a boy. I am so confused at this point that either way it will be a surprise! We do know that I have a 50% chance of having one or the other! ;)

So far, the 2nd trimester has proved to be what everyone was telling me. I am over, for the most part, the nausea and all that goes along with that. I am still waiting on the energy to come back but I am dealing. The eating still proves to be tricky. I can't handle any meat right now which is odd because that use to be my favorite! The cravings have set in full throttle and lately I have found myself longing for a good Fuego salad with a side of lime rice. I have talked about it so much that Zach is sick of it. He finally broke the news to me, "Fuego closed two years ago Erica, stop thinking about it". Last Friday I was wanting it so bad that I was willing to fight the man that put them out of business. . .how dare he, doesn't he know about pregnant women and the cravings they have. So please, if you know him, remind Mr. Fuego of that and tell him he can find me in Oxford!

Let me remind you of the planner I am and how bad it is killing me that I still don't know what "kind of" baby I am having! So August 11th can not come fast enough! Keep Baby King in your prayers as we approach this day. At this appointment we will also be taking a detailed look at all of the babies organs to make sure they are all functioning properly.

From Babycenter:
Get ready for a growth spurt. In the next few weeks, your baby will double his weight and add inches to his length. Right now, he's about the size of an avocado: 4 1/2 inches long (head to rump) and 3 1/2 ounces. His legs are much more developed, his head is more erect than it has been, and his eyes have moved closer to the front of his head. His ears are close to their final position, too. The patterning of his scalp has begun, though his locks aren't recognizable yet. He's even started growing toenails. And there's a lot happening inside as well. For example, his heart is now pumping about 25 quarts of blood each day, and this amount will continue to increase as your baby continues to develop.

Everyone has their own opinion! What do you think we will be welcoming to the King family come January? Get your vote in before we find out our babies sex on August 11, 2009!

The Apple of our eye.

Today we reach week 15! It is amazing how this sweet baby has grown from a poppy seed to an apple in just a few short weeks.

Here is the scoop:

Your growing baby now measures about 4 inches long, crown to rump, and weighs in at about 2 1/2 ounces (about the size of an apple). She's busy moving amniotic fluid through her nose and upper respiratory tract, which helps the primitive air sacs in her lungs begin to develop. Her legs are growing longer than her arms now, and she can move all of her joints and limbs. Although her eyelids are still fused shut, she can sense light. If you shine a flashlight at your tummy, for instance, she's likely to move away from the beam. There's not much for your baby to taste at this point, but she is forming taste buds. Finally, if you have an ultrasound this week, you may be able to find out whether your baby's a boy or a girl! (Don't be too disappointed if it remains a mystery, though. Nailing down your baby's sex depends on the clarity of the picture and on your baby's position. He or she may be modestly curled up or turned in such a way as to "hide the goods.")

I know, I know. I forgot to update after my last Doctors appointment! Please forgive me because it was a very long day! I went in to work for some overtime pay on Monday night and then drove straight to Memphis for my appointment! I was exhausted for a couple days and realized now that I am pregnant, it is not wise to work overtime on the night shift!

As far as the check-up, every thing went great. We listened to the baby's heart beat and it was a strong 150-160 bpm! I have only gained a few pounds and my doctor was thrilled about that. I am not in kidney failure. (remember I work with a bunch of kidney failure patients and when my kidneys start acting different I go into panic mode, slightly!) I did muster up the energy to BEG, I mean seriously BEG for an ultrasound earlier than week 20! She gave in and agreed to do it 2 weeks earlier. So in three weeks I will be finding out what "kind" of baby the king household will be welcoming. :) This appointment is also important because the do a full body check on the baby to make sure all the organs are functioning properly. So, add that to your prayer list!

I will try to do better on posting, until then...

Week 14

I am sorry for the lack of updates. Not much has really changed here. We are trying to kiss the sickness away for good...hopefully. I have only had a few days where I have had periods of nausea.

I go back to the Doctor on Tuesday so maybe I will have some exciting to tell you then. I promise I will be begging to find out this babys sex before 20 weeks. There is no way I can wait that long. My doctor must not know what a planner I try to be. Speaking of planning, Zach and I ran into Babytime in Memphis yesterday to look at baby beds. I had an idea of how much they were going to cost but my Zach was clueless. I really wanted to give him an idea and make sure we are on the same page for styles. We should have plenty of options. :)

From Baby Center:

This week's big developments: Your baby can now squint, frown, grimace, pee, and possibly suck his thumb! Thanks to brain impulses, his facial muscles are getting a workout as his tiny features form one expression after another. His kidneys are producing urine, which he releases into the amniotic fluid around him — a process he'll keep up until birth. He can grasp, too, and if you're having an ultrasound now, you may even catch him sucking his thumb.

In other news: Your baby's stretching out. From head to bottom, he measures 3 1/2 inches — about the size of a lemon — and he weighs 1 1/2 ounces. His body's growing faster than his head, which now sits upon a more distinct neck. By the end of this week, his arms will have grown to a length that's in proportion to the rest of his body. (His legs still have some lengthening to do.) He's starting to develop an ultra-fine, downy covering of hair, called lanugo, all over his body. Your baby's liver starts making bile this week — a sign that it's doing its job right — and his spleen starts helping in the production of red blood cells. Though you can't feel his tiny punches and kicks yet, your little pugilist's hands and feet (which now measure about 1/2 inch long) are more flexible and active.

Week 13

Well, today I have reached a new point...Week 13.

Here is what is going on with Baby King:
Fingerprints have formed on your baby's tiny fingertips, her veins and organs are clearly visible through her still-thin skin, and her body is starting to catch up with her head — which makes up just a third of her body size now. If you're having a girl, she now has more than 2 million eggs in her ovaries. Your baby is almost 3 inches long (the size of a medium shrimp) and weighs nearly an ounce.

Let Freedom Ring...

Happy 4th ya'll!

I hope that you take time to remember all those men and women that have fought and are fighting daily for our freedom. It takes a strong individual with much courage to actually take that line of duty. . .its more than I can ever imagine.

Thanks to all of you that can say you are truly an American Solider!

**Keep in your prayers: A girl I work with and her 5 kids just sent their husband/father to Iraq. He just arrived at his "Destination" a few days ago. Pray for his safety and safe return home.**

Heros I personally know:
My Dad-Marine
Jim Coley- Air Force
Chris Bumgardner- Marine- returned from Iraq this time last year
Chad Gossett (Zach's best friend from elementary)- National Guard, returned from Iraq last year

I know there are so many more. I will continue to add to the list.

GOD BLESS THE USA

The cutest thing you have ever seen...

I got the final word from the doctor and everything checked out fine with the blood work. So we are full of blessings.

1 Down 2 to GO!

Can you believe it, I am officially done with my first trimester.

6 weeks ago, this day seemed so far away. It is a wonderful feeling of accomplishment getting thru the first 3 months. After many hours being nauseated and sick it is good to see the light at the end of the tunnel...I hope! :) So far so good. I am just waiting for the big burst of energy everyone talks about.

From Baby Center:

The most dramatic development this week: reflexes. Your baby's fingers will soon begin to open and close, his toes will curl, his eye muscles will clench, and his mouth will make sucking movements. In fact, if you prod your abdomen, your baby will squirm in response, although you won't be able to feel it. His intestines, which have grown so fast that they protrude into the umbilical cord, will start to move into his abdominal cavity about now, and his kidneys will begin excreting urine into his bladder.Meanwhile, nerve cells are multiplying rapidly, and in your baby's brain, synapses are forming furiously. His face looks unquestionably human: His eyes have moved from the sides to the front of his head, and his ears are right where they should be. From crown to rump, your baby-to-be is just over 2 inches long (about the size of a lime) and weighs half an ounce.

6 months to go....

Love at First Sight

Today, I went for my very first ultrasound. It was a unique experience. I learned about ultrasounds in school and even got to see a few. There was something different this time, slightly! It was OUR baby. I could not believe it. It was the sweetest thing my eyes have ever seen as it sat up against the placenta like it was in a lounging chair. . .feet crossed at the ankles and all! Z was unable to go with me today because of his busy work schedule so Mom lucked out. She got to go right in there with me and she was so shocked! Everything checked out perfect thus far and we are awaiting the blood results to rule out genetic disorders.

I this baby keeps growing like he/she is now, its going to be a tall baby. Hopefully not 4 ft. like my dream!!

I have ultrasound pictures that I will post ASAP.

Team spirit and some good ole advice...

I have been given my very first baby presents! Both were extremely fitting.

Julie brought me a happy when she came in town last weekend. It was perfect! A Ole Miss burp cloth set and a passi clip. So cute and I am sure we will get tons of use in the Grove! Hotty Toddy!

Mary also sent me a book entitled The Sweet Potato Queens Guide to Raising Children for Fun and Profit. I must take you back several years. Mary and I went thru this phase of being really into the SPQ and even talked about planning a trip to the festival. For some reason, we never made it but we still have time. I have already read the first part of this book and laughed out loud. It is hysterical, just like the others!

Thanks for my baby Happies!

11 weeks and counting...

Your baby, just over 1 1/2 inches long and about the size of a fig, is now almost fully formed. Her hands will soon open and close into fists, tiny tooth buds are beginning to appear under her gums, and some of her bones are beginning to harden.She's already busy kicking and stretching, and her tiny movements are so effortless they look like water ballet. These movements will become more frequent as her body grows and becomes more developed and functional. You won't feel your baby's acrobatics for another month or two — nor will you notice the hiccupping that may be happening now that her diaphragm is forming.

I go Friday for my first ultrasound. I will keep you updated!

Reblogging straight from Marbear

I got this from http://blwoutmyflipflop.blogspot.com/ .


Check it out and please don't be as blonde as me! It took me three tries.



okay friends...grab your calculators. yes really.and then set about working this out.then, be as dumbfounded as I was that someone took the time to figure this out.
1. Grab a calculator (You won't be able to do this one in your head)
2. Key in the first three digits of your phone number (NOT the area code-if your number is 01-123-4567, the 1st 3 digits are 123)
3. Multiply by 80
4. Add 1
5. Multiply by 250
6. Add the last 4 digits of your phone number (don't add the individual numbers together add 8841+8841)
7. Add the last 4 digits of your phone number again
8. Subtract 250
9. Divide number by 2

hmmmm. someone out there is MUCH MUCH MUCH smarter than me.shocker.

All you have ever wanted to know...

• I am 10 weeks due January 10, 2010
• I will have meet my deductible all over again 1o days into the new year!
• I am currently craving potatoes in any form, fruit, ice cream bars and lemonade
• For dinner Sunday night I really ate watermelon and potato salad..i know, gag me any other time!
• I quit drinking Dr. Peppers the day I found out I was pregnant- I know it is amazing
• I get sick right in time for dinner. Don't be surprised if I jump out of my seat and start running.
• I can sleep almost any day away.
• I don't get sick at work unless someone else does then I join right in
• I have not had an ultrasound. . .yet. . .2 more weeks! :)
• I don't care if we have a boy or a girl, just healthy!
• Zach is the best ever catering to my every want and need!

I will keep ya'll updated if you will keep Baby King in your prayers!

January 10, 2010

Maybe by the heading you have already caught on...Zach and I are expecting our first baby!

If you just found yourself gasping for air and asking yourself WHAT, then you are exactly where I was 5 weeks ago. We were a tad bit, okay, greatly shocked but we are so excited now. It has been a whole new world already.

I found out on a Friday when we had a house full of guest. Most of you are aware of Zach's desire to start a family so I knew there was NO WAY I could tell him the news. I had to work the rest of the weekend and I knew if I had told him he would tell our guest out of excitement. It worked out well because I could adjust to the fact that there was a baby inside of me and be really thrilled when I told him. I told him first thing Sunday Morning and he was so excited but a little shocked too.

I then headed to Memphis to celebrate Mothers Day with Lala and broke the news to her. Actually Allie Kate Nutt broke the news to her. If that doesn't make sense to you then go back to December post and learn a little! :) She was so excited and did a jumping number that was very funny! She said she already knew which she probably did because she kept saying, "Just tell me your pregnant, I already know". See she has this really weird thing where she can tell. Just ask the Popes! After spending the day with my Mom I kept saying, "Can you believe I am pregnant"? She simply replied, "yea I can"!

I rushed home to Oxford and we headed to Zach's parents to tell them. They were so shocked and very excited as well. They are really hoping for a girl since they have a hill loaded with boys!
Then over the next few weeks we began to tell people about Baby King. It is impossible to keep quite grandmas to be around!

I was so excited at the timing of all of this because one of my very best friends, Lisa was in town so I was able to tell her in person! All my other friends had to have the bomb dropped on the telephone!

I told my Dad's side of the family one night at Rhonda's house. We were all gathered around and I told them I had a game to play. Against all of their wishes, we played. I had written out the date on bibs and gave each person one and told them to spell the words out. They were not totally shocked by the bibs because my sweet Aunt Nancy had made a bib for Uncle Bill because he apparently can be messy. I introduced the game by saying, "I brought a little bib for everyone because I know ya'll are jealous of Uncle Bills". They all laughed and didn't think anything else about it.

This post is getting to be so long, tomorrow I will post the "All you ever wanted to know"!!!

Shoe box shoe box, I need more!

So just a friendly reminder to start saving those shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child this coming December. For those of you that missed out last go around, we collected a large amount of shoe boxes for the Samaritan's Purse mission and wrapped them all in the same paper, Old Santa Paper. We shipped them to over 40 kids in honor of my Dad. We would like to continue this yearly for those of you who want to participate. This year I am going to start collecting the boxes the middle of October. So get to buying shoes and saving the boxes! If you need me to store the boxes, let me know!

http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/OCC/

Last Day with Muir Woods and Sonoma

We set out early this morning for a trip to Muir Woods and Sonoma. We decided to rent a car so we could go at our own pace/speed. We were perfectly set with breakfast in hand and the GPS set ready to roll. The trip was a lot easier than I ever expected. We drove about 30 minutes to Muir Woods. The only bad part of this trip as the windy roads up to Muir Woods. I was so car sick! We finally made it and took a little hike. These trees are amazing. I could not get over how big they are.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

We then headed to Sonoma to do a little wine tasting or smelling! :) Our first stop was at Imagery Winery. This is a sister winery to Benzinger and it was really neat. The neat thing is that they hire a new artist every year to create the wine label. It all has a Parthenon somewhere in the design. We enjoyed this stop and picked up a bottle of WOW OUI. Don't look for it locally because you can only purchase it at the winery. I think Zach might be more into the girl on the label than the taste! :)

After Imagery, we headed to Benzinger Family Winery for a good tour and tasting. This was so neat and very pretty. We had a tour of the grounds and got to learn a lot about bio dynamics in wine making. It is very intense and really makes you appreciate the price of a good wine. This bio dynamic mess is all about not using pesticides. Long story short, they make the ranch as close to natural as possible. Some man from Switzerland did a lot of studying to determine which plants to plant on the grounds to prevent the wrong pest and attract the right ones. So between every row of grapes is a row of random plants such as mustard. They say it really works! This Ranch also spent 4 million dollars to dig out a cave so they could store the barrels of wine in natural temps. It is so neat! If you ever go to Sonoma you must visit Benzinger!

As we headed back to San Francisco, our GPS broke. Its a good thing I paid attention because we did not have a map, we had a GPS!

We head back to the beloved SOUTH in the am. We are so ready!