Hermann Family

Happy Easter!

2011-04-30T18:07:00.017-05:00

Well it was quite the weekend with Allie's birthday party being on Saturday and then Easter on Sunday but we survived the madness!! The week before we colored Easter eggs and decorated the bunny cake. Allie enjoyed doing both. She is at a fun age where she really likes to get involved and do things her way. She is becoming so independent. Brooks had a great 1st Easter. He is very laid back and takes everything in. Hope everyone had a great Easter! We sure did! Even if we had to settle for inside Easter egg hunts.

Thanks to all the "Easter bunnies"!! The kids enjoyed playing with their new toys and eating all the goodies!!

Allie is 2!!!

2011-04-29T22:46:00.013-05:00

This past Saturday we celebrated Allie's 2nd birthday with family and friends. I still can't believe it's been two years! I know everyone says it...but...time flies by! The weather didn't cooperate so we were stuck inside but it was still nice to get everyone together. Allie enjoyed herself and this year she knew what was going on...it was "her" party with Elmo, cake and of course presents!! She did very good blowing out the candles! I think we blew the candles out at least 5 times...she kept wanting to do it again! Thanks again everyone for the presents and happy birthday wishes! You sure made one little girl VERY happy!

We had a small family party on Wednesday (her actual birthday). After blowing out her candles (once again more than once) she decided she wanted some cake and took a small bite! What a turd...she didn't even use her hands..no need...just put her face in:)

Thought I would add this picture also...Allie can be sweet one minute then a diva the next! Let the terrible 2's begin!!!

Brooks' Baptism

2011-02-12T21:29:00.018-06:00

We welcomed Brooks into the church on January 22nd at St. Thomas. With everything else going on, we decided for Brooks' baptism we were taking the easy route and letting a restaurant do all the work instead of us. We went to Joe's Pizza afterwards and it was perfect...no cooking or cleanup!! Brooks did very well during the baptism. On the other hand, Allie had other plans and wanted to talk the entire time. We are still working on being quiet and sitting still at church. I know that is a lot to ask of a 22 month old!

Godparents - Aunt Julie and Uncle Tyler

The Ochs'

The Hermann's

The yummy cake I didn't have to make! haha!

Where Do I Begin?

2011-02-10T13:26:00.014-06:00

Well my maternity leave has come and gone and let me add it was a crazy, fast couple of months. I guess I should start from the beginning. The first part of December I received a call from Harmon's in Oblong asking if I was still interested in a job. Of course I said yes!! We have always wanted to move back home and realized this was God's wink to us. Back to Jasper County we come!!

So let the fun begin. We enjoyed all the holidays get togethers, put a house on the market, moved into a rental house, Jason and I have both now quit jobs (Jason's last day was Wednesday), and started new jobs. Well Jason hasn't found a job yet but is working on a couple of opportunities. We couldn't have asked for a better moving day but then the ice storm hit and we had to go back to mom and dads!! Whew!! We will always remember the week we moved! It's finally starting to settle down and we are getting into a routine.

Brooks is getting so big. At his 2 month check he was already a healthy 14 lbs. He is smiling and cooing all the time. He is holding his head up more during "tummy time" getting stronger everyday. Before I know it he will be rolling over! He loves his bumbo seat and is also content laying on the floor looking up and playing with his toys. Allie is adjusting well to being a big sister. She is such a BIG help around the house. She mimics everything we do with Brooks with her dolls. She is practicing for the day she is a mommy. It is too cute!

I tried to get a couple of pictures in their Valentine Day shirts but its getting harder and harder for me to take pics of both of them. While Allie loves to give Brooks hugs, kisses and even hold him as soon as I get out the camera see immediately says "no pictures MOM, please!!" so...needless to say she doesn't cooperate and immediately turns her head! I did manage to get a few though.

I changed my background to spring!! Hopefully that will help melt this ice and snow!! I am ready for some warmer weather!

Brooks Oliver Hermann

2010-12-08T12:31:00.010-06:00

Introducing Brooks Oliver Hermann!

November 17th 2010
2:01 pm
7 lbs 5 ounces
19 inches long

1st Thanksgiving

getting ready to go see Santa

Allie did good with Santa however she did want Jason to sit with her.

Hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Summer Fun!

2010-08-15T16:05:00.024-05:00

Whew! What a busy summer we have had! I guess I will start from the beginning. We took Allie to her first Cardinals game in early June. The Kellers went with us. The game was supposed to be an afternoon game, however it was switched to a night game. We were a little skeptical at first but the girls did really good. We stayed until the 8th inning. She loved it. She had just started walking then so she just wanted to walk everywhere.

My mom turned 50 on June 12th and also retired at the end of the month so a lot of celebrating was done. On her birthday we pampered ourselves with a pedicure and a little trip to Cameo in Greenup in the afternoon and a party that night.

the girls at Cameo

Mom's coworkers surprised her with a party earlier that week. Boy was she surprised!!

Jason's grandparents also did a little celebrating of their own...60 years of marriage!!
Happy Anniversary Leonard and Mildred!!

For the fourth, we did a little swimming at Tony and Geri's and then headed to Dieterich to watch the fireworks. I thought they did a very good job with the fireworks. Allie was such a trooper. She stayed awake for the fireworks but was fast asleep once we headed home.

At the end of July we made a quick trip to Grants Farm. We stayed there about 2 hours which was perfect for Allie. She really liked the goats.
enjoying the train ride

yay for sprinklers!!

This past weekend we took a short trip up to Arlington Heights to visit my brother and do a little sight seeing in downtown Chicago. We left on Thursday and got to the hotel in the afternoon and did some swimming waiting for Ryan to get off work. We went and met my brother at his apartment, which is located in downtown Arlington Heights and is very nice. That night we also experienced IKEA for the first time. Friday morning we woke up bright and early to catch the train and head downtown. We wanted to visit Shedd Aquarium and heard you had to get there bright and early or the lines would be bad. So knowing our family we were there bright and early which was a good thing because the line when we left at 11:30 was very long to say the least. We then hopped on the water taxi to Navy Pier. From there we headed to Giordanos for lunch. I had eaten there a couple of years ago with my friends and wanted to take my family there for some deep dish pizza. Mmmm goood!! By this time Allie was getting tired and hot (I don't blame her!) but I wanted to make one last stop downtown....American Girl! As soon as we walked in you couldn't tell Allie was tired. Her face lit up and of course wanted to play with everything. Awww...the joys of little girls and their dolls! So needless to say Allie came home with an itty bitty doll.

riding the train
Shedd Aquarium
getting on the water taxi

beautiful view

Jason and Allie walking on Navy Pier

giving kisses to the lego people!!

Here are a few random pictures from the summer....enjoy!!
Allie reading her new favorite book.."I am going to be a big sister"

Happy Birthday Allie!!

2010-04-27T20:37:00.004-05:00

We can't believe you are a year old already.

Where has the time gone?
You fill our hearts with happiness and laughter,
but who couldn't love your big blue eyes!
You are everything we imagined and so much more.
We love your smile and giggles and the look of amazement when you figure out something new.
We hope you enjoyed your day at the zoo.
We can't wait to spend many more birthdays with you.

We love you so much,
Daddy and Mommy

Easter Weekend!

2010-04-08T09:15:00.010-05:00

We have had a busy couple of past weekends spending time with family. Last weekend we went to Champaign to celebrate Easter on the Hermann side. One highlight of the weekend was Allie finding the stairs in the house and she LOVED going up them..coming down however was a different story. Her poor little legs had to be hurting on Monday. Lots of fun was had and of course a little shopping was done. Thanks to the Easter Bunny for all the great gifts!!

the GIANT bunny from uncle Tyler!!
Allie loves when you read her books...aunt Anna was doing a wonderful job:)

and so it begins...the many trips up the stairs!!
Anna and Tyler
grandpa and grandma Hermann

This past weekend we went to my mom and dads to celebrate Easter. It was a little windy on Saturday but nice enough to go outside for a while. Allie went on her first ranger ride. I don't know you enjoyed it more...Allie or grandpa!
Later in the afternoon we decided to color some eggs. Allie could have cared less but we did it anyways!
Easter morning...after church
Allie don't you like our kisses:)

While we were at church, the easter bunny came again!
thanks grandpa and grandma Ochs
more books...did I mention Allie LOVES to read!!
thanks uncle Ryan!

My dad had ordered the tractor a while back and it finally came in last week. Allie loves it! Thanks grandpa. I am sure she will like it even more when she is able to drive and pedal.

We went to my grandpa and grandmas for lunch on Sunday. What a gorgeous day!! We stayed outside the entire day!

Allie enjoying the day!
grandpa and grandma Brooks!!
Allie showing off her bunny ears. She didn't keep them on very long though.
more ranger rides!!

Hope everyone had a wonderful Easter weekend. We sure did!! Time seems to fly by!! I can't believe Allie is going to be ONE in a couple of weeks!! Where did this last year go!

Happy Birthday and Valentine's Day!!

2010-02-15T11:35:00.007-06:00

Mom, dad, Julie and grandma all came over yesterday for my birthday and of course to see Miss Allie. We didn't do much but it was so nice just to stay at home and visit.

Hold on, Allie!! She loves her wagon. I can't wait for nicer weather so we can try out the wagon outside.

Mom got Allie this basket and she put it on her head...she only liked her new hat for a few seconds

the beautiful flowers I got from Jason and Allie

trying to get a family picture...can you tell we woke Jason up from a nap!?!
thanks grandpa for my 1st tractor

9 months old!!

2010-01-30T19:45:00.005-06:00

I can't believe its been 9 months already. Where does the time go? We took Allie to get her pictures today. I guess they turned out okay for them being an hour late for our appointment.

Much Better...

2010-01-20T08:52:00.013-06:00

Well after a long sick week last week, we (and yes I mean the whole family) are feeling better. Allie started getting a runny nose/cough last Friday and it progressed into RSV with an ear infection. Breathing treatments and antibiotics later and she is 100% better.

Not much else is going on. Allie is still amazing us everyday with all the new things she is doing. She loves feeding herself as we are giving her more table food. She still hasn't mastered drinking from the sippy cup on her own. She is crawling more and getting faster and also started to pull up.

I can finally wear a bow in my hair!!!

Good morning!! Who's ready to play?!?!
helping mommy with laundry

Christmas pictures and more...

2009-12-28T20:59:00.016-06:00

It has been a crazy couple of weeks. We have 5 Christmases down and 1 more on Saturday. I wish we didn't have to travel so much but it is worth it in the end to get to visit with family. Allie's first Christmas couldn't have been more perfect. She of course was very spoiled!! Thanks everyone for the wonderful gifts!!

Santa #2...Allie wasn't too excited about this Santa...

Allie's new chair she got from Santa

Christmas Eve...getting ready to go to church

Grandpa opening up the best gift from Kelsey...a penny taped to a clothespin...a penny pincher...get it!!! If anyone knows my grandpa knows that gift fits him perfectly!!

Marcus getting some practice...Marcus and Buffy are expecting their first child in May
Julie and Ed...thanks for having us over!!
twas' the night before Christmas...
Christmas morning!!! All excited to open gifts!

do we look alike...

Allie enjoying her rocking chair from grandpa and grandma Ochs

playing with all her new toys
Jason will probably kill me for posting this...but Allie loves playing with her dolls with daddy
Allie didn't bother the tree until the day we were taking it down...she figured out she CAN reach the ornaments
Last but not least..we had bought this snowsuit last Christmas and decided to try it on yesterday before we left to go shopping...needless to say after all the work to get it on, we had to take it off because she wouldn't fit in the carseat with it on....argh!!!

She's On the Move!!

2009-12-15T21:46:00.002-06:00

That's right...we now have a mobile little girl. Allie started crawling last Thursday. She was a little wobbly at first, but now has the hang of it. We are waiting for her to attack the tree but lately she just loves the remotes, cell phones and computer. She is growing up way too fast...it won't be long before she is walking!!

Santa Who?

2009-12-06T20:46:00.005-06:00

We took Allie to see Santa on Saturday. We didn't really know what to expect, however she did great! She just kept staring at him wondering who is this guy with the beard and why am I on his lap. If only we could read her little mind!

Lots to Catch Up On!!

2009-11-30T19:24:00.010-06:00

It has been a busy couple of weeks. On Nov. 21st, Kelly and Brooks Thomann got married. It was such a beautiful wedding. Everyone made it home so it was nice to get to see everyone and catch up on all our busy lives. On Sunday, Jason shot the "big" one..not really...but he did a good job for his first time hunting.

All of us girls with the beautiful bride

and the men...I mean boys!!

Allie trying on grandpa's hat

Jason with his deer:)

We had a great Thanksgiving spending time with family. I had to work this past weekend so it was a quick trip home. We put all of our Christmas decorations up and we got our tree on Saturday. Allie's face lit up when we lit the tree. This Christmas is going to be so much fun!!

Allie's 1st Thanksgiving

Allie getting into the Christmas mood and wearing her santa hat!!

Harvest Fun!!

2009-11-15T17:46:00.004-06:00

Allie got to ride with grandpa last weekend in the combine. I don't know who was more excited Allie or Dad! Allie loved it and was in such amazement of everything...she even got to drive:) Heres to many more combine rides...

We also got to visit with Larkin Hasler last Saturday. The girls had so much fun together. It is great to see all of our girls grow up together!!
Larkin teaching Allie to crawl

Happy Halloween!!

2009-11-01T07:55:00.006-06:00

I had originally just bought Allie a black onesie with a pumpkin on it to wear on Halloween, however when I was shopping on Wednesday I saw the cutest costume on sale and just had to buy it. The time to really buy costumes is a couple of days before because you can really get some good bargains!! I had to work Friday night so Jason took her trick or treating.

Maddie and Allie..how cute are they!?!?!

On Saturday night, after I got off work, we went to Madison Keller's 1st birthday party!! Madison looked so pretty in her dress and I am sure she will have fun playing with all her new toys!!!

Happy Birthday, Maddie!! Your mom and dad did a great job with your party!!

The girls having fun in their diapers

Pumpkin Patch Time!

2009-10-26T10:31:00.005-05:00

On Saturday, we went to Eckerts in Belleville with the Kellers. It was such a beautiful day to get outside. I guess a lot of people thought the same thing because it was packed. They had many things to do for older kids but since our girls are still young we just decided to take the wagon ride out to the pumpkin patch and pick our pumpkins. We had a lot of fun and I think the girls had fun just being outside. Thanks Mark and Tiff for inviting us...next up Christmas trees!!

I haven't posted any new pictures lately...so here you go!!

Such a big girl rocking in great-grandma's chair

Go Lady Eagles!!

2009-10-18T20:53:00.011-05:00

Allie, mom and I went to the volleyball game on Thursday night for Senior Night. The girls won and played a great game. I had Allie a onesie made with my old number...maybe someday she will get to be a Newton Eagle and wear my number!! Great job Lady Eagles...good luck the rest of the season!!

Where Has the Time Gone!!

2009-09-28T07:24:00.005-05:00

I can't believe it is already fall. It seems like just yesterday we were laying on the beach and I was still on maternity leave. Well, those days are over.....I actually started a new position with Schnucks as a pharmacy manager. I really like it so far. Sometimes I don't feel like I know what I am doing but I learn something new everyday!! I really like who I work with so that is a good step especially since I floated before and never worked with the same people two days in a row!! Nothing is really new with Jason's work...he does however get to go to Florida in December. I asked if daughters and wives could come but he informed me that only employees could go...oh well it was worth the try!! Allie is growing up so fast..she is so fun to play with now. We could lay on the floor and play all day...maybe that is my problem and why I don't get things done around the house...oh well...that can wait right!? She is in love with her exersaucer! Some days I feel like she is going to rip the toys off...she just wants to put them in her mouth:) She is also starting to sit by herself for longer periods of time...it won't be too much longer before she is sitting up like a big girl.

Look at those cheeks...don't you just want to squeeze them:)

Grandma and Grandpa Ochs' exersaucer...she likes it just as well!!
As you can see...we have too much fun with our baby:)
Aunt Anna came over on Friday night
Allie and her new love....her toes!!
Daddy and Allie before church
Grandpa and Grandma came over for a visit on Sunday

Mmmm...cereal!!

2009-08-31T19:55:00.006-05:00

This past week we started Allie on cereal. The first couple of times I think she wore more than she ate, but she is slowing starting to get the hang of it. The different funny faces she made were priceless...too bad we didn't get many on camera!!

Before picture..

Here we go..
Not so sure about this..
Okay I will have some more..
I still will eat my hands over cereal any day!!

4 months already!!

2009-08-24T21:00:00.007-05:00

Allie had her 4 month check-up today. She weighed 14 lbs 5 ozs and was 25.5 inches long!!! She is growing like a weed!! I started back to work last Monday and its going good so far....Jason is getting more daddy time since I have to work nights and weekends. He even brought her to work a couple of times so I could see her.

Some things Allie has been up to:

Drooling, drooling and more drooling
Lots of smiling
Tons of cooing...I think she likes to hear herself talk and also loves to see how loud she can make her sounds:)
Putting anything and everything into her mouth
She can now roll over from tummy to back and back to tummy
Still the love of our lives and makes us happier each and every day!!!:)

Enjoying some mommy time!!

I just love this picture...it was taken a couple of weeks ago when Grandpa and Grandma Hermann came to visit!

Back Home...

2009-08-15T06:26:00.012-05:00

We just got back from our vacation to Gulf Shores last night. We went with my moms side of the family, ate lots of good food and had a great time. I highly recommend eating at Bahama Bobs, the Oyster House, Lu Lu's and Boudreauxs' Seafood. The girls had fun shopping and laying out on the beach while the boys enjoyed golf and deep sea fishing.

Allie was a very good baby...she just loves being outside and who wouldn't love the beach:) I go back to work on Monday and feel real sorry for Ruth, our babysitter, Allie was played with/held all week!! Hopefully she adjusts well!! I think it will be harder for me than her!

Some things we learned on vacation:

Jellyfish do sting
Make sure you have your ID if you are going to The Hangout
Dramamine does calm a person down
Waves can/do knock you down
Cell phones don't float
Karaoking with strangers can be fun
Girls can deep sea fish too!
My grandparents can stay up past midnight
A dry docked battleship can still make a person nauseous
Parasailing is not as scary as it looks
Bouncy seats are lifesavers on the beach
The food isn't good unless Ed has it on his shirt!!

Thanks everyone for making our first family vacation a memorable one!!

Stop, Drop and Roll!!

2009-08-06T18:45:00.006-05:00

Allie surprised me today and decided to roll over!!! She was in her crib and when I went back in to check on her she was on her tummy!! I had to put her on the floor and see it for myself. She has been rolling over ever since...she even did it for Jason when he came home. She can only go from her back to tummy now, but I am sure it won't be long before she masters going the other way. Wow what a day!!! It's amazing how fast they grow up!!

I think I can...

YAY!! I did it!!

Entertaining Picture!?!?

2009-08-04T16:29:00.002-05:00

Does anybody see anything wrong with this picture?

Allie or Lindsey?

2009-07-28T08:39:00.003-05:00

I found this baby picture of myself today and I thought it looked like someone I know!!

RIP Rudy....

2009-07-25T18:41:00.003-05:00

We had to put our dog, Rudy down on Wednesday. Let's just say it was a long night. He was a great dog and will be sadly missed!!

Relaxing Weekend!!

2009-07-20T13:01:00.006-05:00

This past weekend we went home and got to visit with family. We usually go home for a specific reason but this time we really didn't have anything planned so we got to enjoy it a little more. We were supposed to go to Tony and Geri's house to swim but with this crazy weather it was way to cold to swim. I guess Allie's first swimming experience is going to have to be in Alabama!! By the way, if anyone has any suggestions for what to bring for a baby on the beach I would appreciate any ideas for what worked/didn't work for you. On Saturday, Jason, Dad, and Tony went golfing so the girls stayed home and played with Allie all day. That night we went out to eat with Grandma and Grandpa and then decided to head to the good ole' ballpark to watch my cousin Nathan play, which by the way he did an awesome pitching and hitting!!

We all got together on Sunday to plan out our vacation to Gulf Shores!! I can't wait to just lay on the beach and do nothing!!! If anyone has any great ideas of what to do there let me know!! We are going with the entire Brooks' side so any ideas will be helpful!!

Aunt Julie rocking Allie to sleep!! I know she's not sleeping here, but 5 minutes later she was fast asleep.
having fun on the floor
fun times at Parklanes!!
My dad kept getting Allie to smile!!
aww..I love this picture!!
family pic...I think the grain bins in the background give it character!!!
Daddy playing with Allie trying to wear her out so she would sleep all night...which didn't work by the way!!

Bumbo Time!!

2009-07-10T09:02:00.007-05:00

Allie had her two month checkup two weeks ago and she weighed 10 lbs. 12 oz. and was 23 inches long. I am sure she is 11 lbs. by now!! She loves to eat!! On Monday, Jason suggested that we try out the bumbo seat. I said.."Oh she is still too little!!" Little did I know...she sat in the chair like a big girl. She sure is growing up fast!!

My mom came over on Wednesday. Allie had a lot of fun playing with Grandma Patti all day. We went out to lunch which was so nice to get out of the house for a little bit!!

Anna and Denise came and visited yesterday afternoon. Allie was all smiles and had to show off how big she is by sitting in her bumbo.

Fourth of July Hasler Style!!!

2009-07-05T10:47:00.006-05:00

On Saturday we headed down south to Goreville for the annual Hasler Fourth of July party. They live on Lake of Egypt and have the perfect setup for a summer party. We were just down there a couple of months ago and I couldn't believe all the stuff they got done in a short amount of time. They finished the railing on the upper deck and redid their shoreline and dock. Everything looks great!! It rained most of the afternoon so the party moved indoors. It stopped raining around 5:00 and off we were on the boats. The dads stayed back with the babies and the moms took the boat out!! At the end of the night, Michael shot off fireworks on the barge and he did an excellent job..they were very good!!

our little firecracker!!

Larkin and Allie all dressed up for the 4th

pool tournament in the afternoon

new dock and shoreline

Kelly and Brooks

Captain Allison

watching the fireworks on the deck

Hope everyone had a good 4th!! Thanks Allison and Michael for hosting a great party!!

Allie's Baptism

2009-06-28T20:34:00.009-05:00

Today Allie was baptized at Mother of Perpetual Help Church in Maryville. We couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day. She did such a good job. She didn't start crying until it was all over and we started taking pictures.

Allie with her godparents, Aunt Anna and Uncle Ryan

Allie in my dress that I wore 26 years ago!!

Allie has her 2 month checkup tomorrow. I am anxious to see how much she has grown!! She is growing up WAY to fast!! It has been a busy month. Allie is holding her head up so good. We are getting better at "Tummy Time", but she still only likes it for about 5-1o minutes and then she is done with that. She is starting to become more interactive cooing and smiling all the time.

wide awake!!

sound asleep!!

Allie in her "doll" cradle

Such a happy baby!!

Redo of the four generation hand picture....thanks Terri for the ideas!!!

Tummy time

Two years already!!

2009-06-14T21:55:00.007-05:00

I can't believe Jason and I have been married for two years!! It seems like just yesterday we got engaged and a year and a half later we were married. I can still remember the day. It was perfect!! We had such a fun time celebrating with many friends and family. I love you Jason!!

This past weekend Mark, Tiffany, Madison, Jason, Allie and I all piled into the truck and went to Indy to watch Ross Wolf play baseball and to also visit with Michael and Mandy Bierman. Ross plays for the Norfolk Tides and they were playing the Indy Indians. We thought it was a perfect opportunity to see Ross play. He doesn't get close to home very often. It was a very nice stadium and we had a great time. We are so proud and happy for you, Ross!!! Thanks to Michael and Mandy for opening the house to all of us and for the great food. It's amazing how much stuff you have to bring now with a baby. I felt like we were staying a week instead of overnight!

The outfield where people can lay down a blanket and watch the game. We thought that was pretty neat!!

"Bucket Boys"
They entertained the crowd in between innings.

Class of 2001!!!

Happy Birthday Mom!!

2009-06-12T06:59:00.003-05:00

Today is my mom's birthday!! If anyone sees her around town wish her a happy birthday!! Love you mom!!

Happy Birthday to You.....

2009-06-09T18:42:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to wish my aunt Julie a happy belated birthday!!! She, my mom and grandma all came over yesterday to go shopping and of course see Allie. Hope you girls had fun!! I know Allie and I did!

Busy Weekend!!

2009-06-08T09:54:00.012-05:00

I can't believe Allie is already 6 weeks old!!! My maternity leave is going by so quickly...sigh:) We had yet another busy weekend this past weekend. On Saturday, we hosted a bridal shower for Stephanie Willis at Tiffany's house. She is getting married the end of July in Gatlinburg, TN. She lives in Ohio and was coming home this weekend so we thought it would be a great idea to throw her a surprise shower!! I think/hope she was surprised!! I think it turned out pretty good. Tiffany always does a great job hosting!! We all brought food and it was of course all good!! This was also the first time most of my friends got to see Allie and it was the first time for all three girls (Madison, Larkin, and Allie) to be together. Tiffany had even bought matching outfits for them all to wear!! I had so much fun catching up with everyone and just enjoying the day. I don't know about you girls but I sure was exhausted that night when I got home!! I just wish all of us lived closer so we could get together more often!! Miss and love you girls!

Stephanie opening her gift from all of us
Allison and Larkin with Jason and Allie
Stephanie with Allie
the three princesses in their matching outfits!!:)

Larkin and Allie (they were born 12 days apart)

On Sunday, we went and visited Jason's grandparents who live in Ste. Genevieve, MO. They were so glad to finally meet their great-granddaughter.

Stretch.....

2009-06-01T07:14:00.009-05:00

Allie is always stretching and everyone says "she's growing!!" Well we had her 1 month well visit on Friday and she is up to 8 lbs 2 ounces and is 22.5 inches long. She grew 4 inches in 1 month!!! I really think she was longer when she was born but what do I know!!

I love to swing:)

Jason's brother, Tyler and his girlfriend Katie came over on Saturday. It was so nice to see them. Of course, they loved on Allie all day!! Thanks again for the cute outfits and of course the good food!!

I babysat Madison on Saturday night. I was kinda nervous about how this was going to be with two babies, but it really wasn't that bad. Madison is at a great age to play with and such a happy baby!! I tried to get some pictures, but you know how that goes!!

One of the better pictures:)

Miles and Miles of Fun

2009-05-26T17:21:00.012-05:00

"On the road again," that was our theme song this past weekend. We decided to make our first trip to Newton this weekend. On Saturday, we headed to Newton only to stay there for a couple of hours and then drove back to Effingham for a graduation party for Jessica Keller.

Congrats Jess!!

On Saturday night, we went and visited with my grandpa and grandma. Allie got to meet her great-grandpa for the first time. We decided to do a four generation hand picture, however we were unsure of how to do it. So...if anyone has any suggestions on what its supposed to look like let me know!!

Great-grandpa Brooks

Allie with her great grandparents

Sunday morning we woke up and decided to drive to Champaign to see Jason's parents. We stayed there most of the day and then when we got back to mom and dads, Julie and Ed were there waiting to see us.

It's alright Ed, she won't break:)

Allie showing off her new dress!!

Monday was another busy day. In the morning, in between all the rain, Jason and I picked strawberries....so good!! We then headed to Olney to see Julie's newly remodeled kitchen. It looks very nice. I absolutely love it!!

From there we traveled to Noble to see Brooks Thomann's house. He and Kelly Kepley recently got engaged so I guess its now Kelly's house too!!:) They are working on fixing up the house but they really do have the perfect setup...10 acres, inground pool, a barn and lots of other extras!!!

Congrats guys!! Can't wait to celebrate the big day with you!!

Time flies!!

2009-05-20T19:30:00.015-05:00

My how time flies! I can't believe Allie is 3 weeks old already!!

This past weekend Allie met more family and friends. Mom, Dad and my brother came on Saturday. Ryan got Allie the cutest blanket, bath towel/wrap and outfits. Thanks uncle Ryan!

Adam, Katie and Ellie Hoene came on Saturday night. Ellie is 5 months old and getting so big!!

Daddies and their girls!!

We took Allie to church on Saturday night. She did so good. The key is to feed her right before:) She slept the entire time!

Love her shirt:)

Micah Joggerst came today and met Allie. Thanks for visiting and for the cutest outfit. Micah and Nick got Allie a onesie with matching bib and socks with her initial on it.

So Much Love!

2009-05-12T10:10:00.012-05:00

This past weekend lots of family came to see Allie. On Saturday, my mom, dad and Julie came over in the afternoon and then Tony, Geri and Kelsey came later on that day. Then on Sunday, Ken and Denise stopped by on the way home from Ste. Genevieve and stayed for a couple of hours. It was so nice for everyone to come and visit.

Grandma Patti and Allie

Great-Aunt Julie showing Allie some love!!

Proud Grandpa:)

Tony, Geri and Kelsey

Grandpa and Grandma Hermann

Allie ready to play golf in her polo dress!!

Happy Mother's Day!!

2009-05-10T17:36:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to wish a Happy Mother's Day to all the moms in my life. This is my first mother's day and I couldn't be any more proud of my baby girl. I love being a mom and truly appreciate what it means to be called "mom". I hope everyone had a great day like I did!!

Pretty in Pink

2009-05-04T10:30:00.008-05:00

Well we survived the first week. We have had many family and friends come and visit Allie. I know she loved all the attention. Thanks everyone for the gifts, congrats and well wishes. We really appreciate it. My mom came and stayed with us the first couple of days and I would like to thank her for everything she did. Love you mom, couldn't have done it without you!!

We first saw her beautiful smile last Thursday and she has been smiling ever since. Of course, we have been taking tons of pictures. She saw the pediatrician on Friday and everything looked good. She was down to 6 lbs 1 oz, but after these last couple of days she has to be back to her birth weight (6 lbs 5 ozs). She has been eating very good so that's always reassuring. We are getting her newborn pictures taken tomorrow so hopefully everything goes well.

First day home

Daddy and Allie watching her first Cardinals game. I think she slept through most of the game:)

Allie in her new Itsy Bitsy dress - thanks grandma Patti!

Allie meeting her new friend, Madison Keller

She's Here!!!

2009-04-30T07:36:00.009-05:00

Allie Marie arrived on April 27th at 11:28 pm. She weighed 6 lbs. 5oz. and was 18.5 inches long (a far cry from the 8 lbs. plus the doctor said she was going to weigh!!!)
It was my first baby so I didn't know what to expect, but I never expected my labor to go the way it did!! I was having mild contractions all day on Monday so by Monday night Jason and I decided to go to the hospital around 7:00 pm. I was admitted but I told them I didn't know if I was in labor. They hooked me up to the monitor and watched my contractions for about 1 hour. I was dilated to a 3 when I arrived and when they checked me after an hour I was still only dilated to a 3. The decision was made to send me home and come back when my contractions were stronger and occurred every 5 minutes for at least 1 hour.(We only live a few blocks from the hospital.) Sooo...we got home around 9 pm and I watched TV until about 10. And so the story begins....once again I didn't know what to except and what "these" labor pain/contractions were going to feel like!! But I knew when I jumped off the couch in pain around 10 pm that they were here!! I tried to distract myself and keep time of the contractions but I knew this was the real thing. I almost stayed at home too long (but they told me....to come back after I had contractions for at least 1 hour). We arrived at the hospital around 11pm and I was hunched over walking into the hospital. They rushed me into a room.....I was demanding drugs!!.....They were trying to find a doctor....They had to check me first.....It was too late for drugs...I was already at a 9!!!!! I could have pushed right then and there, however I was told by all 9 nurses..poor Jason got shoved to the back of the bed...that I had to wait on a doctor. My doctor finally arrived at 11:27..Allie was born at 11:28!!!

I couldn't have asked for a more perfect, beautiful baby girl!! She is so tiny but loved by so many!! It was definitely worth it and one of the greatest experiences I will ever have!! Nothing is more rewarding than having your baby put into your arms. We survived our first night at home last night realizing that you really can survive with only 2 or 3 hours of sleep!!!

First family picture!!

Proud Grandparents

Miss Allie Marie

Shriner Fun!

2009-03-16T07:55:00.005-05:00

Last Saturday night was Shriners night in Newton. I always look forward to going home and talking to people I haven't seen in a while. We started the night at Jason and Laura Pitcher's house for a "potluck". Everything was so good and it was great catching up with everyone. Thanks Jason and Laura for having us over!! Then, we headed into town to the KC hall. We say we are going to start out somewhere else, but it seems that we always get sucked into going there and staying there the entire night. The KC hall didn't disappoint...it was packed like usual!! I was impressed with myself..I stayed out until almost midnight. Until next year...here are a few pictures from the night!!

Baby Shower

2009-03-09T08:22:00.021-05:00

This past Saturday was my baby shower at the golf course in Newton. I couldn't have asked for a better day. While I am very exhausted, I am excited to start putting everything together and getting the nursery ready, which by the way Jason already started last night (I was sleeping!) I would like to thank everyone who came. It was so nice visiting with everyone. I would like to thank my mom and my aunts Julie and Geri for all their hard work in decorating and planning everything. It looked great! My friend Tiffany also had the cutest cards made that everyone filled out on their opinion of the characteristics of the baby. I spent a lot of time reading the cards and getting some name ideas:) Here are some pictures from the day!!

Quilt that my mom made..so cute!!

Jean ( my godmother) and I

grandma and I

Close friends (and their babies)

Super cute diaper cake that Tiffany made

Happy Birthday Grandma!

2009-03-01T08:24:00.004-06:00

Just wanted to wish my grandma Janet a happy birthday! We went and surprised her last night with pizza and cake. She had a bad cold so I hope she gets to feeling better. (sorry no pictures!!) Afterwards, we went to Tony and Geri's and the guys played some hardcore foosball:) Thanks for having us over. We had fun!!

Baby's First Pictures

2009-02-12T19:35:00.006-06:00

Today I had an appointment for a 3D ultrasound. Here are a few pictures of our little one:)

Per Tiffany's Request.....

2009-01-31T18:57:00.007-06:00

So I decided I would post some pregnancy pics...

18 weeks

22 weeks

27 weeks

I am getting bigger by the day, instead of the week!! 13 more weeks to go!!

AC/DC concert!

2009-01-21T07:13:00.007-06:00

Jason and I attended the AC/DC concert last Tuesday night that was held at the Scott Trade Center in St. Louis. While I am not a big fan, Jason is. Needless to say, it was an awesome concert. A little loud though, but what do you expect!!!