Jingle Bells, Shotgun shells...

Jingle Bells, Shot gun shells.... Christmas is on it's way!!! I have to say this b/c Jackson has learned to sing a precious version of Jingle Bells and his Daddy is all about shotgun shells and wackin' the ducks this season!!! We have had so much fun this holiday season. Jackson is so into the season and enjoying all the new sights and sounds. We first ran into Santa with an ambush outside of Dillard's. Momma didn't know he was there yet and Jackson wasn't sure who the strange man in red was. We strolled him up to Santa and asked if he wanted to see him and he quietly said," No" under his breath. Greta protested with a loud cry. Bless their little hearts!!! Santa gave them antlers and candy canes (from a distance) which made them pretty happy. When we came back by you quietly sat in his lap and we told him that you wanted a Thomas the train table. You were very quiet and sat patiently waiting for me to grab you while your fingers were tucked securely in your mouth.

Our second visit with Santa was at the Peabody Hotel with Greta. Santa rode the elevator down with the ducks and lead them into the fountain. You were so excited about all three, the elevator, the ducks and Santa. You kept cheering," Hi Santa!" and "Duckies!". There were several activites to participate in, but you couldn't leave the ducks long enough to do them. Everytime they would splash and get you wet you would laugh hysterically and run to wipe your face off on my coat. You are such your father's child! The sweetest part was how you lead Greta by her hand to show her the fountain and the ducks. You love your Greta so much! That afternoon we went to Mamaw and Papa's house and you saw Polar Express for the first time, or should I say multiple times. You begged to watch it over and over for days.

Our thrid visit was for pictures. You smiled so big when you saw Santa and quietly sat in his lap and read a book. It was so sweet to watch you and we got wonderful pictures to remember it by.

By our fourth sighting you were yelling, "Hi Santa!" across the parking lot to the "big man in red". We were going to Barnes and Noble and he was opening the door for Christmas shoppers.

You almost couldn't contain yourself until we spoke with him. Then you got really quiet, sucked your fingers and smiled.

Oh Baby......

One miscommunicated night
One acute gallbladder attack and a visit to the ER
Two postive pregnancy tests
A second baby....... Priceless!!! (Or should I say shocking!)

Yes, my little one, you are going to be a big brother! We had tossed around the idea, but weren't ready to commit just yet. We have so enjoyed the love and relationship that we have built with you and that was holding us back from having a second child. We question; How we will love another child like we love you?, How will we split our attention?, How will this new addition change our family dynamics?, How will this new little life change yours?. We already feel like we can't capture enough time with you or create enough memories or remember every little detail about you. God must feel like we have enough love to spread , b/c he has blessed us with another little miracle. He knew he would have to intervene this time! Ha! Although we are in a state of shock and panic the ultrasound and the sound of its little heart beat warmed our hearts.

I don't find myself as excited or bonding as quickly as I did with you, but I'm assured in my heart that when our family knows and as I feel this little life grow inside me that I will fall in love all over again. This little one will make our family complete and I know you will be a increadible big brother. Congrats little man!! We love you! Mommy

Catfish...

I just had to mention this... One night you were taking a bath at Nanny and Poppy's and you pulled the chain and stopper out and said," I caught a catfish". Your Nanny couldn't help but laugh and call us right away. You just love your "fishes and turtles" and ask daily to go see them. As soon as we go into the fish bldg. you check them out in awe ( like it's your first time) and then search for your fishing pole, which is a big plain stick that you pretend to fish with. We also go visit the tourist center and name off all the fish and animals. You have gotten very good at differentiating each species. You make your Daddy proud! Now we just have to work on the different kinds of ducks! Ha! Oh, I also have to mention that your Daddy has taught you the correct way to hold your pow pow. I see you standing up to your nick name "Little Bitty Miller" as a great outdoorsman one day. Love ya Baby!