Savoring Every Moment....

2009-03-01T21:48:00.001-08:00

thevanhookfamily.blogspot.com

We have changed our blog to

thevanhookfamily.blogspot.com....

a new beginning ;-)

2008-12-14T20:42:00.000-08:00

Getting a new camera tomorrow and I'll be back!!

2008-09-04T13:01:00.000-07:00

New Camera??

I am wanting to get a new "big girl" camera soon. I've been trying to read reviews but I find the best way to really find out about something is by asking. I don't want it so expensive that I'm afaid to use it or take it anywhere but I want something that you can change the lenses out if you want.

I got a recommendation from a fellow blogger of a Nikon D40 but if anyone else has any suggestions please let me know.

2008-09-04T12:41:00.000-07:00

I love a lady that can throw some ZINGERS!!!

Ok just a little recap of last night.... I would post my favorite quotes from Sarah Palin's speech but I would end up posting all if it so I'll spare you.... just google it if you missed it.

I've never been a feminist or an activist for women's rights or anything like that. I think it's ignorant for people to vote for anyone based gender or race but I must say last night I was proud of the fact that she is on the ticket and she is a woman. When McCain chose Gov. Palin I had some reservations like everyone else, but the more I know about her the more I really like her. She's real and she's living the American dream!!
.
Also, Mike Huckabee, Arkansas favorite son, (or whatever they say) also had a great speech with some great quotes.

Great night overall at the RNC!!

p.s. if anyone reads this that has any pull please tell Ms. Palin her hair looks better down! :-)

2008-09-02T21:30:00.000-07:00

I know, I know... never talk about politics or religion

I've always kinda been into politics just because of certain issues that I find important to me and my value system. Since living in DC though, I have come to love it and keep up with it on a daily basis. Many of those who know me can guess that I am a staunch conservative. No, I don't think that GWB has done a perfect job by any means but I do think that he has accomplished many good things that have been overlooked on by the media and others because of either a) the war has sucked bad news always comes before good, b) they are extremely liberal and bias or c) a combination of the 2 and I tend to lean toward C.

One of my goals is to never to look down on anyone because their views are different than mine. I may get frustrated but many of my good friends are Democrats and I love them just the same :-) (you know who you are!!) Yes, I might role my eyes at some of the things people say on TV and want to throw the remote through the TV (especially Keith Olberman....errgghh!!) or think how in the world can someone who was raised here in the good 'ol USA like me think the complete opposite as I do on so many important issues. I do find it intriguing and have to remind myself that they may be just as passionate as I am about the complete opposite view.

So I know it will come as no surprise to you then that I am supporting John McCain. I think that he is the only choice we have, but then again that's me. And no I don't think that Barack Obama is a muslim or he's unpatriotic or anything like that, it just comes down to the issues for me... and you can't blame a girl for that!!
I have been enjoying the RNC convention tonight and thought I would post some of my favorite quotes from tonight's key note speakers....

Fred Thompson:

"Some Washington pundits and media big shots are in a frenzy over the selection of a woman who has actually governed rather than just talked a good game on the Sunday talk shows and hit the Washington cocktail circuit."

"Being a POW certainly doesn't qualify anyone to be president. But it does reveal character. "

"But a man who never quits is never defeated. Because John McCain stood up, our country is better off."

"Our country is calling. John McCain cannot raise his arms above his shoulders. He cannot salute the flag of the country for which he sacrificed so much. Tonight, as we begin this convention week, yes, we stand with him. And we salute him. We salute his character and his courage. His spirit of independence, and his drive for reform. His vision to bring security and peace in our time, and continued prosperity for America and all her citizens."

Joe Leiberman:

"Sen. Obama is a gifted and eloquent young man who can do great things for our country in the years ahead. But eloquence is no substitute for a record — not in these tough times."

"Vote for the leader who, since the age of 17, when he raised his hand and took an oath to defend and protect our Constitution, has always put our country first. So, let's come together to make a great American patriot our next great president."

Oh, and one of my modern day heros:

Love, love, love her -- I know if we hung out we would be best friends

(if anyone knows how to get tickets to "The View" let me know :-))

2008-09-02T21:16:00.000-07:00

First day of school.... kinda

Finley embarked on her first day of Mother's Day Out today at our church. She has been having a little bit of separation anxiety lately so I was worried about it last night and this morning but she marched in there like a big girl and immediately stole one of her friends dolls so I knew she was A-okay. (we are working on sharing right now :-) ) We had a photo shoot before we left and the pictures almost made me tear up cause the little stinker looks like such a toddler and not a baby anymore... can I get an amen!?!?! Anyways here are a few....

BTW- I sent these pics to some of my friends earlier and my friend Jordan wrote this back:

"I was worried that her backpack looked a little overwhelming, but remembering your no-textbook rule in college, I'm sure you didn't have it filled too full for her :)"

I thought it was funny and those who knew me in college know just how true that is!!

2008-08-31T21:03:00.001-07:00

GO HOGS!!

Football season has officially started and Richard and I went to the game this weekend with my brother and his wife Shannon. Although it was a short trip, it was fun and thank goodness we pulled it out. (Shannon and I would have not enjoyed the car ride back with those boys!) We stopped and picked up one of my brothers friends who lives in LA and we had so much fun hanging out with him. He literally kept us laughing the entire car ride there and back.
Finley stayed back with my parents and thankfully so because I was way too hot to be chasing her around. (which seems to be all I do these days :-)) I hope that we'll be able to take her to at least one game this year but her attention span has been in the negative here lately so we might just have to wait till next year .... or the next .... or the next. We'll see??

2008-08-31T20:51:00.000-07:00

Starting From Scratch

You don't know how many times I have wanted to start back blogging over the past few months but when you wait this long you think... "where do I even start?" or "will my blog friends ever forgive my for this long hiatus?" So I'm just biting the bullet and doing it. My friend Amber started a blog and she has inspired me to begin again. She is such a great blogger and hopefully I'll be as good as she is at keeping it updated. And I hope all my friends who have been on my case will be happy now :-)
Finley Grace is just learning or teaching us something new everyday it seems and since I can't bottle it up I just need to write about it. ENJOY AGAIN!!

This is Finley's most recent monthly pic at 17 months

2008-03-25T12:37:00.000-07:00

Real Good Friday

Friday we had a really Good Friday last week. Not only was it the day that we remember our Saviors sacrifice but I got to spend it with my 2 favorites on a beautiful Spring day.

We started off the day by going to The Wonder Place in LR. We had so much fun and Finley was loving every minute of it. I never thought I would have such an active baby, and maybe they are all like this, but I don't think she can sit still unless confined by a car seat or stroller. She loves to be on the go!

After we played out there we went to Richards Favorite BBQ place, Whole Hog Cafe, and did take out and went to a park down by the Arkansas River. Finley didn't see the park.... she had enough fun for a while so she slept in the car (see pic below) . Here are a few photos from our playday:

2008-03-25T07:55:00.000-07:00

1st Birthday Party Pics

Okay... so maybe I went a little overboard for Finley's First birthday but a girl only turns one once, right? We had so much fun and here are just a few of the pics we got. We were so blessed to have all of our family and friends here to help celebrate her special day.

Front doors dressed in pink flowers

Chaos while opening presents

Evie Kate enjoying the party

Drewbug

Not wanting to wear her birthday hat

Singing Happy Birthday

Mailbox dressed in Pink balloons

Grandmary and Finley Grace

Entry table with the party favors

Pink goodies and party hats

Finley loves balloons so we made sure we had plenty

More balloons on the mantel

My precious hubby risked his life to hang these pinwheels for me

The table

After Finley decided to sit in the mud in her birthday dress

Daddy and Finley
The guys and their gals
Tom, Brooke and Emily

Decorating the sidewalk with chalk
All the presents

2008-03-19T07:37:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Baby!

"I Prayed for this child and the Lord granted me what I asked of Him." 1 Samuel 1:27

I can't believe that a year ago almost to the hour we were meeting Miss Finley Grace for the first time. I get very emotional when thinking about that day. I was very fortunate to have a scheduled birth so I remember so vividly the feelings I felt leading up to her birth and what exactly we did. It's so cliche to say but it really does go by so fast and it just seems like yesterday we were on our way to the hospital. Oh what a year!!

Finley is such an amazing little girl and so full of personality and energy!! She loves to have all the attention on herself and is a total ham. It is an understatment to say that she is independent. She has been walking since she was 91/2 months and running since 10 months. She is such a happy baby and I love it when random people walk up to us on a plane or grocery store and are amazed at how happy she is.

I want to be the best mother. I have never struggled with wanting to be the best at anything. It's kinda sad but I never cared about excelling in school, career, sports ect. but motherhood is something that I want so badly to be not just good at but great at. I want her to see Christ in all that I do just like I see and have always seen in my own mom. I strive to be a better person everyday for her.

I love to see her excitement when she sees a balloon, gets to pet a puppy, or sees her daddy come in the door. I love that she reaches for me when she wants to feel secure but that she runs in the nursery at church with excitement and doesn't look back. I love how she learns something new everyday it seems and claps with joy when she realizes that she's done something good. She loves to blow kisses and we have never had to teach her to hold her baby doll close. She is already such a nurturer! I love to see her try and get someones attention when they are not looking at her. She loves to dance and take baths. And I love the way that she loves me back and the sound of her lazy giggle. Needless to say I love everything about her.

I am so blessed, not only with a sweet little girl, but also a great and loving husband who strives to be the best father to Finley. He loves her so much and reguardless of how tired he is he will run around the house tirelessley and let her chase him just to hear her giggle. He can make her laugh like no other. I love to hear people say that she looks like her daddy and I hope that she gets his gentleness and patience.

This year has been the best year of our lives . We are constantly reminded of God's mercies. We are so humbled by His grace and pray that she will always desire to keep Him first in her life.

2008-03-10T08:29:00.000-07:00

Back to DC

We flew back to DC last weekend for our friend Kelly's baby shower and Katie's 28th birthday and to catch up with everyone else. We had the best time and got to cram in lots of quality time in a little over 48 hours (and with an almost one year old that's full steam ahead!!) Finley did great on the trip and was a hit. Our friends hadn't seen her but in photos since we left so they were really surprised to see Miss Independent walking and trying to talk. We had many mixed feelings being up there. Saturday night we were driving around after we had said our goodbyes and we were talking about how much we missed being up there with our close friends and just all you get to do and see but at the same time we wouldn't leave Arkansas for anything. It's hard to explain but we know we are right where we need to be!

The guys wrapped up in Xbox

Tom loved Finley

The Crew for Katie's birthday Dinner

At the Shower

Finley and Braden....

Grubbin down on the good food

Brandy, Katie, Aimee, Kelly, and me

2008-03-10T07:26:00.000-07:00

Evie Kate's Birthday Party

One of Finley's best friends, Evie, had her birthday party at a local gymnasitcs studio. It was so much fun and Finley was in Heaven being able to fun and play at her will. She loved sliding and the big trampoline the best. Here are the pics:

Ready to Party!!!

Evie's Little Cake

Christa, Drew Finley and I

Daddy Helping Fin down the slide

Party Time

Trying to get everyone to pose... HA!!

Lacie, Finley and Josie getting ready for the parachute

Going around the obstacle course

Parachute Time!

Drew sliding down

2008-03-10T07:01:00.000-07:00

Valentines Day almost a month late...

My sweetie surprised me and 4 of my best friends from college with a trip to Kansas city for a weekend of relaxing and shopping and eating!! (jordan lives there so that makes 5) He was so cute about it- he somehow got all the #'s of my friends husbands/ signifigant other (some he already had, but some he had to stalk) and they planned it. He told me a week before and everything was already planned so Christa, Sarah and I headed to NWA to pick up Amelia and Holly and then headed to KC to see Jordan. It was such a fun weekend and we felt like we were back in the corner 5 girl room in the Kappa house!!! We said multiple times how sad it is that our guys have to plan this stuff for us. Anyways we are going to try to do this twice a year just to catch up and just be college girls again. I love these girls so much!!

2008-03-10T06:59:00.001-07:00

ok.... so i'm gonna start this blogging thing again for like the 4th time. I think about blogging all the time and i do in my head but it never gets typed out. So I'm counting on all my friends out there to hold me accountable... I NEED YOUR HELP!!!

2008-02-09T21:20:00.000-08:00

Wii

I got Richard a Wii for Christmas and we have to admit, it might be the coolest thing since sliced bread. Here is Andrew playing it this weekend during his and Carmen's visit.

2008-02-09T20:58:00.001-08:00

Juno

A couple of weekends ago Richard was in Atlanta that week for work so I met him for the weekend to hang out and sleep in while my parents kept Finley. We didn't have much planned besides going to the Razorback basketball game on Saturday night which turned out to be a nightmare since we lost by like 48 points or something like that. So after the game we decided to go see the late movie. It was between "The Bucket List" and "Juno" . I didn't know what Juno was about but I knew Richard had been wanting to see it so we picked it and proceeded on into the best 91 minutes of movie I have seen in a really long time. I am usually wanting a movie to end by the time the end comes even if I am enjoying it but I wanted to keep watching. It kinda has a Napoleon Dynamite feel to it but with an actual story line and much better even though I do like ND. I highly recommened it if you are thinking about seeing it.

2008-02-09T20:41:00.000-08:00

Our little Diva

Getting dressed up for a shopping trip with mom

She couldn't get up with the boots on which made her extremely mad.... I like to say she has her dad's temper! :-)

2008-02-09T20:37:00.001-08:00

Andrew and Carmen

We had such a fun weekend with Andrew and Carmen. They came and met Finley Grace for the first time and she instantly fell in love with them.... especially Andrew! We had so much fun eating, playing the Wii, playing with Finley, going to the Clinton Library(woohoo!!), and just catching up in general. We have so much fun with them and even though we don't get to see them as much as we would like it always seems like we can instantly catch up where we left off! We had a photo session with Finley because Andrew has some major Camera Skillz and she was being pretty cooperative. Here are a few from the session....

2008-01-24T21:21:00.000-08:00

Christmas in Searcy

For some reason we forgot our camera at our house when we went to searcy to celebrate. I'll get to pics from my mom and brother and post later... some traditions continued and some changed but it was an awesome time with my family.

2008-01-24T21:00:00.001-08:00

Christmas at Grandmarys
We had Christmas day lunch over at Richard's moms this year. It was so much fun and we ate way too much and then opened presents. The best was seeing Thomas open his batman costume we gave him and he couldn't wait to put it on and would not take it off the rest of the time. You know when you just hit the nail on the head with a gift... well that was mine this year. His expressions were priceless and I can't wait till Finley gets to be that age and we give her the Barbie car or dollhouse she had been wanting and to see her face light up will be worth any line we had to stand in or price we had to pay!

Daddy with his girl

Finley was due a nap

Before opening gifts

"I'm not scared of you Batman!"

The girls feasting some more

Finley loved her new stroller

But loved the green wrapping paper even more....

and the steps at Grandmarys!

Is that Thomas or Batman?

2008-01-24T20:31:00.001-08:00

Finley's first Christmas Morning...

She loved all the attention and playing with the things Santa brought her. Papa and Granna spent the night and woke up with us on Christmas morning which was a treat. As you can see from the photos, her favorite things were her red wagon and rubber duckie!

Good Morning!

"All this... for me!!!"

Loving the wagon

Loving the wagon some more

"enough with the pictures already!!"

2008-01-04T11:21:00.000-08:00

Merry and Bright... and busy!!

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season this year. We had such an sweet first Christmas with our little girl. It was so fun beginning new traditions as a family. Finley was such a trooper through all of the houses and families we went to see and actually loved the paper and tape much more than anything anyone got her. I can't wait till next year..... only 11 months to go.

I hosted Richard's family this year at our new house. Since we've been away really since we've been married I've never had the opportunity until now. It was fun and a little stressful at the same time... but it was my turn. :-) Here are some photos from our holidays...

Total Chaos!!

Finley and Emily loved their babies!

I finally got to use my fine china... it's only been 51/2 years!

Granddaddy cutting the Turkey

We all ate very well

2007-12-20T12:54:00.000-08:00

No Place like Home for the Holidays

I have had the best time decorating our new home for Christmas. The past 2 years we have had to pick and choose what we can have while living like sardines so this year I let it all come out. Yes I do get into it a little more than most but I get it honestly from my mom.... we used to kid her when we were younger that our house could be mistaken for a landing strip with all the spotlights that she had going!!
Finley has loved all the lights we have up and every morning her and daddy turn on the lights together. She loves to wave at the tree and has been really good about not touching it. We have had a couple of tornados come through our North Pole Village but anything can be fixed with a little super glue... right? I love this time of year and am already dreading putting everything up.
Here are a few pics from around the Vanhook House:

2007-12-20T12:50:00.000-08:00

New York, New York

This past weekend Richard and I met our DC friends MJ and Kelly in NYC for the weekend. Thankfully after our flights were cancelled and rebooked we finally made it Friday afternoon. This was only the 2nd time we have left Finley to go out of state but she was well taken care of while we were gone by her Papa and Granna and Aunt Mary Kathryn, along with some help from cousins Mary Mills and Abby. We had a great time and it was great to catch up with MJ and Kel.
Here are some pics from the weekend:

Kelly and I in Little Italy

Richard and I in Central Park

Bike in Central Park with lots of Christmas Spirit

Kelly and I by Central Park Ice Skating Rink

Kelly and MJ in Central Park in front of The Plaza

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

Macy's Store Window

2007-12-18T08:28:00.000-08:00

I know I know….. NO EXCUSES!!!

Ok maybe just a few…. I know I have been a bad blogger but not having internet for 3 whole months really can get you off a blogging routine. I’ll call it a sabbatical and I shall be a better blogger from hence forth. ( or something like that?)

Well to say a lot has happened since July 27th would be an understatement. I will try and recap the last 4.5 months in as little time as possible but try and hit all the key things.

We moved away from our life in DC and moved back home to Arkansas. The adjustment was harder on me than I thought it would be. I knew this is where we needed to be and had wanted to be closer to family for a while but so much changed so quickly. Richards job in which he travels some was a big change, we had really grown to love the area we were in up there and we loved our friends up there like family, and Finley was changing so much. We also moved into a rent house that was a little depressing with no internet (could not get it in the area at all!!!) and not in the best neighborhood at first so that didn’t help either. So I spent a lot of time in Searcy with my parents while Richard was on the road which was another excuse for not blogging.

Things started to change though when we found our house…. or should I say home. We were planning on building and had even met with a builder a couple of times when a great house came open in a great neighborhood in our price range. We thought it was too good to be true and when we went to look at it the owners were actually a couple we knew from college. I knew it was our “home” when I first walked through the front doors. So we made an offer and they accepted later that week. Richard’s job started to settle to where he worked from home most of the time. And we began to meet new friends and found a church that we felt like we could plant our lives.

Finley changes more and more everyday. She is so much fun and is really starting to show personality. She is now almost 9 months and is crawling at lightning speed and pulling up on everything that will stay still. She has even began standing up and balancing on her own. She is talking all the time and I think she will not have a problem giving her opinion to anyone.

Her new favorite things to do are:

Ride her car while her daddy pushes her,
Ride in a shopping cart like a big girl and see how many people she can get to look and smile at her
Put anything and everything in her mouth
Stand at the window and look outside
Dance, dance, dance,
Take long baths and splash a lot
Look at the Christmas tree and wave at it
Have her daddy mock what she is doing
Play peek a boo
Have you chase after her

Some of her not so favorite things:

Being told no
Taking medicine
Getting into her carseat
Not getting your full attention
Getting her nose wiped

God is good and we see that his timing is perfect. We love being back near family and getting to have “date nights” again. We love that when people say bad traffic down here we know we can handle it. We love the slower pace and the friendliness of the south once again. I can honestly say that enjoy going to Wal-mart supercenters as well… most of the time. It’s good to be home!!

Here are a few photos from the last 4 months.

2007-07-27T10:59:00.000-07:00

PACKING UP

The end is quickly approaching and we decided to get Finley in on the fun! She makes everything more fun... even packing!!!

"HEY....Are ya'll planning on packing me too?"

2007-07-27T10:54:00.001-07:00

Some of Daddy's friends from work gave me this t-shirt. Mom and I don't really understand it but daddy sure thinks it's funny. Must be geek humor!!

2007-07-19T08:19:00.000-07:00

Not only is it Finley's 4-month Birthday but......

1 month

2 month

3 month

4 month

She can sit up... but staying up is the problem

Exactly one year ago today Richard and I found out that we were going to have Miss Finley Grace. Oh yes, a day that will live in infamy..... July 19th 2006.

For those who don't know the story, Richard and I were not trying to get pregnant, so needless to say we were in complete shock! I bought a pregnancy test at the drug store when I was there picking up a prescription and came home and took it for peace of mind- (this was not an unusual thing at our house because I am a worrier ;-)) So when the double line showed up I rubbed my eyes immediately and looked again.... still same result. So I called for Richard to come upstairs for a sec- "I'll be up in a few minutes... I'm in the middle of something" I thought to myself... "oh, you have no idea!!!"

So with tears in my eyes I came down the stairs, stopped halfway, sat down, and buried my head in my hands. Somehow I managed to get out.... "We're Pregnant??!?!?!" and I don't even know if Richard knew I was there as he was so buried in his work. I think it took a good 10 seconds for him to put it in the buffer and then a very delayed "say what???" came out and I don't think that deer in the headlights left his face for most of the next 9 months.

But oh what a blessing these last 4 months have been. I fall more and more in love with Finley and Richard every day. There is just something about seeing the man you love get on the floor and blow spit bubbles with your child! She is such a good girl and we feel like we are the luckiest!!!

2007-07-15T13:36:00.001-07:00

My 2 NERDS

2007-07-15T13:18:00.001-07:00

This weekend
by: Finley Grace Vanhook

I had so much fun hanging out with my mommy and daddy this weekend. Friday night we went and walked around and ate downtown. The weather was so nice and cool. On Saturday mommy and I got up real early... well actually I got up real early and made mom get up too, and we went downstairs and ate breakfast and played. Then we took daddy his coffee in bed and made him get up too. Later that day mommy and daddy kept putting all our stuff in these big boxes??? I don't know why they are doing that cause I really liked where everything was. Oh well, then Sunday we got up and went and ate brunch with Uncle MJ and Aunt Kelly. It was so much fun watching everyone else eat while I only get a stinkin bottle... NOT!!!! Now mommy and daddy are upstairs taking naps before we go to church so I thought I would sneak downstairs to jot down my thoughts ..... I think daddy might get mad if he knew i was munching on this bottle over his new IBOOK. I know my secret is safe with ya'll- shhhhhh! I hope everyone else had a great weekend too.

2007-07-08T09:30:00.000-07:00

Moving Home

ARKANSAS OR BUST

Hey Ya'll!

GO HOGS GO!!!
(yes she has very good balance...unlike her mother!)

Well, the time has come for us to leave our metro DC life and move to a slower pace!

About 2 1/2 years ago Richard and I, on a whem, just decided we wanted to move away for a bit while we still didn't have kids. He found a job in DC so here we came, us 2, our dog Oliver, and a giant U-haul filled to the max ready to quickly fill up our tiny apartment. It has been a great adventure and we will never regret the time we have spent up here.

We will be leaving much different people than when we came... we are now a mommy and daddy and we have a much greater responsibility than our wants and needs.So many wonderful memories have been made in just the short time we have spent here.This place will always be special... afterall it is the birthplace of our baby girl and the first place we were a complete family!

Although we are excited to move back home and we know it's time, it will be hard to leave the great friends and relationships we have made up here. The Lord placed these people in our lives for a reason and we are so grateful.
Now for a kinda new adventure..... back to the land of sweet tea, southern accents, SONIC, and 10:00 news!!!

2007-06-30T20:23:00.000-07:00

Take me out to the ballgame.....

Thursday night we went to see the New York Yankees beat the Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yards. We went with 2 of our good couple friends who just happen to be from New York and huge Yankee fans. We had so much fun and Finley Grace was such a good girl. She loves being outside and was really into the TV screen we had above our seats. Here are a few pics from the evening.....

I'm ready to go!!

Derek Jeter

Brandy, me and a sleepy girl

Leaving the park

Doesn't dad look cute with the pink diaper bag??

Veiw from the seats

2007-06-21T19:27:00.000-07:00

Our little girl is growing....

3 Months
2 Months
1 Month

2007-06-10T20:59:00.000-07:00

Happy Weekend!

We hope that all of you had as good of a weekend as we did. We laid low and went to eat at our favorite restaurant in downtown. Finley was a doll!! We had a little photo shoot before we went and here are some of the pics. She was trying to show you her gummy grin!!

2007-06-10T20:38:00.001-07:00

Recent Videos

Yes we know to the naked eye these videos are extremely boring and uninteresting; however to grandparents, aunts, uncles, and anyone else who cares this is entertainment!!
(Oh and please excuse the highly obnoxious baby voice I am using in these videos..... one day everyone with children will understand!)

The one-sided conversation:

Finley in her BUMBO:

Happy Girl:

2007-05-26T18:46:00.000-07:00

New Finley Photos

Chillin with Otto the Monkey

Drifting off

She is just beginning to tolerate the swing, not like, just tolerate

First night in her new crib... YIPEE!!

Looking at herself in the mirror

Not really enjoying tummy time

2007-05-26T18:39:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day Picnic

Today we took Finley on her first picnic to Great Falls Park. It overlooks the Potomac River and the view is beautiful. Finley loves being outside and she enjoyed our picnic thoroughly! Here are a few pics from our fun day at the park.

2007-05-25T20:10:00.001-07:00

Finley's Nursery

We finally recieved Finley's crib yesterday. We have been waiting on this thing for 5 months and much drama has gone into getting it. The story about it is so crazy that no one would believe it and I don't have the time to explain but her room is finally complete for the time being. Fin loves her new crib and has slept in it all night last night!!! Here are the pics below.

2007-05-19T15:52:00.000-07:00

Last Week in Pictures

The Girls

Finley and Ryan

Aunt Amy

Cousin Abby

Cousin Mary Mills

Photo Session at GrandMary's house

Cousin Megan

Aunt Brooke and cousin Thomas

Uncle Philip

Aunt Shannon

Cousin Lakelan

Aunt Dlyna

Saying Bye to Papa at the airport

GrandMary

Granna

Papa and Granna at the airport

2007-05-19T14:49:00.000-07:00

Compare and Contrast

It's hard for me to tell how much Finley has changed until I look back at pictures. Here is a picture at a month old and the same one when she is 2 months. See the changes?

2007-05-19T14:00:00.000-07:00

2 month update

Finley went to the doctor yesterday and had her 2 month checkup. Dr. Chris said that she looked perfect.... but we could have told you that!! She weighed in at a whopping 10.0lbs and was 22 inches long. That puts her in the 25th percentile for weight and 50th for height.(whatever that means??) He sounded like that was good so we were happy... until the shots came. Miss Fin got 2 sticks in both thighs and let me just tell you.... she was severely ticked. The first 2 shocked her more than anything but by the second 2 she got MAD. Her faced turned the brightest shade of red I have ever seen and she didn't breath for like 30 seconds. She cried very loud for the next minute but then calmed down. She was fussy for the rest of the night and her sleep wasn't as good but we managed just fine. I hope that she didn't think that I had anything to do with it?? Poor Girl!

She is becoming so much more alert now and we love making her smile. I got to thinking on Friday that the poor girl has no toys, a dresser full of clothes- yes, but no real toys. She has a swing and bouncy seat that she hates at the present moment so I thought we needed to do something about it. The only things she really looks at is Richard and I and that would drive anyone batty if you did it long enough. We went last night to Babies r us to stock up and does anyone know how expensive toys are?? They (toy manufactures) really know how to get you because we they make you think that your little one needs all these things to develop normally so we got suckered in.... oh well, when she's a kid genius she can thank us. We are having so much fun and I attached some of her latest pics... Enjoy our cutie!!

2007-05-16T09:33:00.000-07:00

Finley Grace's Dedication

Our sweet baby girl was dedicated to the Lord on Mother's Day. We did it at my Dad's Church (Valley Baptist) so he could do it and all of our family could be there. It was such a special time for us to dedicate her in front of a church family that had prayed for her and us for so long. She is one loved little girl!

There are so many thing that we pray for her but most of all we pray she will come to know the Lord on the very day she realizes that she is a sinner. We hope that we can be the Christian parents that she needs and that she will put always allow Him to be Lord of her life. Our desire is for her to Love the Lord with all her heart, soul, mind and strength.

2007-05-16T09:32:00.003-07:00

Great-Grandmothers

While we were home Finley got to meet 3 special people that already love her so much. Mine and Richard grandmothers got to spend some time with our newest addition and I think they would all agree she's a keeper.

2007-05-16T09:32:00.001-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!!

It was so nice to be home in Arkansas for Mother's Day. Not only was it my first Mother's day but I got to be with my mom and daughter on that special day. I am so lucky to have such a wonderful and godly example for a mother. She truly is a Proverbs 31 women! I only hope that I can be half the mom to Finley as my mom has been to me. She not only is my mom but she is also my best friend and I know it's cliche to say it but I'm going to anyway, you really don't appreciate how much your mom has done for you or how much she loves you until you have a child of your own.

When I found out we were having a girl I got so excited, not only because of all the cute clothes and bows that she will get to wear, but I thought about that bond that I have with my mom and I just hope that Finley share that as well. I realize that with having a daughter I also have the potential for serious arguments, temper tantrums, stubbornness, slamming of doors, talking back, crying fits, etc. I know all of this because I was once prone to such behaviors. And I'm not naive enough to think that we will always be best friends, but I can only hope that during those times in her life when she needs someone she can really count on, she thinks of me first. I pray that God will help me know how balance being a mother and a friend to her. I also pray that He will bless our relationship so that one day I can be in the delivery room with her when she holds her baby for the first time and realizes how incredibly much I love her.

Thanks mom for all you've done and sacrificed so that I could have the very best.
I love you!!!

2007-04-26T09:36:00.000-07:00

Going to the Outlets

This weekend was Finley's first trip (of many) to the outlet mall!! She wanted to wear her new Zutano outfit and matching bow & although both are still a little big, mommy gave in & let her. Doesn't she look so cute though?

2007-04-26T09:26:00.000-07:00

Granna and Papa came to visit!!

I am so glad that my Granna and Papa came to visit me this last weekend. Even though they only got to stay for less than 48 hours it was so fun to have them here. I don't think I was put down 1 time!! They are the best and I can't wait to visit them next week and see where they live.
-Finley

2007-04-19T06:50:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Love!!

Happy one month birthday to our sweet baby girl! One month ago today marked the happiest day of my life when I met Finley Grace and fell in love instantly. In some ways I can't believe that it's been a whole month since I looked at her sweet face for the first time but in other ways it seems like she has been here forever and it's hard to remember life without her. I think she smiled at me for the first time yesterday which melted my heart.... and it might have been just gas?? and last night during bath time she made a couple of coos sounds . It seems like she is changing so much each day and I wish that I could just bottle it all up. I can't wait for her to laugh, sit up, reach for me and all the fun stuff yet to come. I feel so privileged to get to be her mom and I love waking up each morning and serving her.

Richard and I have learned so much about being parents this last month--- some things have been fun and others have been more challenging but we have loved it all. We have bonded as a family and many happy and grateful tears have been shed. It's hard to describe the love you have for your children until it's right before you. We feel so blessed and are learning more each day about each other.

2007-04-18T07:48:00.000-07:00

Ah..... Ah..... CHOO!!

Who knew a sneeze could be so darn cute????

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ojBswCM5wsA

2007-04-17T15:59:00.000-07:00

Daddy and Finley Time

I just love to watch Richard with Finley. He is such a wonderful father and he loves her so much. He has even become an expert diaper changer and swaddler!! Here are some images I've captured of them together.

2007-04-17T15:46:00.000-07:00

Fun Weekend

We had a fun laid back weekend with good friends, food and many photos taken. Friday night our friends Ben and Courtney came over to meet Finley and we got take out PF Changs and watched "The Notes from the Underbelly" (how appropriate!!). And then Saturday Tom and Katie came over to finally meet Finley and brought us good Lasagna and all the fixins. We miss them so much since they moved to Bethesda and we love it when they come visit. Finley approved of both couples with 2 thumbs up!!!

2007-04-17T15:36:00.000-07:00

Rub a dub dub....

Finley has finally embraced bath taking... which is a good thing. She despised being naked in any way during the first few weeks but now she doesn't mind it so much. She's getting to be such a big girl!! Here are some of her latest bath pics..... Enjoy!

2007-04-04T11:44:00.000-07:00

Dear Finley.....

I hold you in my arms, young princess. You sleep in sweet, heavenly peace. Yet I wonder if you'd be so calm if you knew the truth: I am your mother. And I don't have the slightest idea what I'm doing. You are my first baby, my only daughter. I was just getting used to being pregnant, and now here you are! And you are so very, very real.

Your dad and I have been preparing for your arrival for months. I've read the books Well, some of them. A few pages. I've listened to my friends, who give me endless advice. They're all experienced, you know, because they have their own babies. But, you're different. You're my baby. And they don't know a thing about you.

I do. I know all about the way you kick and wiggle. I've already memorized the way you smell, like a fresh from the earth daffodil. I know about the way your lower lip quivers when you're about to cry. I know that your wispy hair is the most luxuriously soft thing that has ever touched my cheek.

Yet I admit that there's much I don't know. In the hospital I had to be instructed how to nurse you. Last week my mother showed me how to bathe you in the sink. I don't have a clue how to clear up diaper rash. I get queasy at the sight of blood. I don't sew. I 'm not good at salt dough maps. My math skills are atrocious. And you might as well know right up front that wiggly teeth give me the heebie-jeebies.

However, I am very good at baking cookies. I know how to make indoor tents on rainy days. And I have my mother's wonderful sense of humor, so I know how to laugh and make you laugh. I'll sing you sweet songs in the night. I'll pray for you every day. I'll let you keep any animal you catch, as long as you feed it. I'll call your imaginary friends by their first name. I'll put love notes in your lunch box, and I'll swim with you in the ocean, even when I'm old. Perhaps the best thing about being your mother is that I get to share these privileges with the most incredible man in the world....your father.

Any credentials I have to offer can't be earned over coffee with friends...they can't be taught by a book. to me they are tender intuitions, whispers from God, eternal insights only a mother can know when her baby is cradled in her arms as you are now in mine. This is where the Lord will teach me how to mother you by heart.
I love you!

**This was forwarded to me from a friend and although I did not write it I could not have said it better myself.

2007-04-03T18:12:00.000-07:00

To all you American Idol fans out there....

Finley is for Blake Lewis all the way!! We have ourselves a Blaker girl!!

2007-04-02T07:47:00.000-07:00

Happy 2 Week Birthday Finley Grace!!

I can't believe how much she has changed in just 2 weeks that we have known her. Today is my first day home alone with her and I must say I am a little nervous. My mom left on Sat. morning and we already miss her (and I think that she misses us too!!) We have had many firsts this past week... first trip to the mall, first trip to starbucks, seeing the Easter bunny for the first time, first trip downtown to see the cherry blossoms, first real bath, and many more. I think I have found my true calling in life.... and I'm loving every minute.

Finley had her 2 wk check up today and she is back over her birthweight at an massive 6lbs. 9oz. and they said that she looked perfect. We feel so blessed!! We are just falling more and more in love with her everyday!!

2007-03-25T17:27:00.000-07:00

Where does all this love come from?

"The Lord has done great things for us and we are filled with joy" --Psalm 126:3

As many of you already know, our new love, Finley Grace, arrived Monday morning (3/19) at 9:33 a.m. and weighed 6 lbs. 4 oz. and is absolutely perfect. I am so sorry that I haven’t posted before now but I am just too busy staring at my beautiful baby. I am so overwhelmed with how much I love this little 6 lb. bundle and I can’t imagine life without her now.

I have loved every minute of this past week. From spending time with family to just being with my baby at all hours of the night. I love seeing Richard cradle and kiss her and believe it or not he’s even pretty good at changing diapers. Below I wrote the Story of Finley and how she arrived into this world... enjoy.

Finley’s Story
We feel so incredibly blessed! After a really easy labor of only 2 hours (yes, start to finish) Finley arrived and was extremely healthy. I spent the night in the hospital on Sunday night so that I would be ready to go in the morning when they were to start the pitocin (drug that induces labor) at around 8 the next morning. They gave me a cervadil the night before to help get my cervix ready and I guess that was all I needed. I woke up the next morning just in time to start watching the Today Show and noticed that I had a few light cramps. Then at around 7:30 they began to get worse and in the matter of 10 minutes I was having full on contractions. The nurse came in and checked me and found that I was already 7 cm dilated. She ordered my epidural and the anesthesiologist came in around 8:30 and I think I have decided that whoever invented that should win the Noble Peace Prize. By 9:10 I was completely relaxed and feeling no pain. Shortly after I was comfortable the Dr. came in a checked me and found that I was ready to push. My water had not broken yet so she broke my water and I was ready to push at around 9:30. After just 4 pushes Finley had arrived at 9:33! It was such an amazing feeling to finally lay eyes on her and we all fell in love instantly. Richard and my mom were such great coaches and I’m so glad they were there in the room to help welcome Finley into the world. I’ll post some pics below but finleyvanhook.com has the whole scrapbook.

Thanks to everyone who has prayed for our daughter. Your prayers were heard and the Lord has blessed us beyond our imagination.

My mom with Finley

My dad with Finley

Ready to go home

Richard's mom and sisters

Richard's dad and stepmom

Her cute mittens

Going home outfit

2007-03-12T07:55:00.000-07:00

Shower for Finley

Here are a few pics from the lovely shower my friends up here threw me and Finley. It was so much fun. They had lots of fun games and lots of good food. I love these girls and am so glad the Lord has placed them in our life to be our "family" while we are up here! It's so fun to see other people get excited about the birth of your child.

Finley got lots of fun, girly things!!

Katie and me! (a little swollen!)

Partaking in the goodies!

Katie smelling the baby food.

Trying to identify the "dirty" diapers.

Yes, we had to try baby food... it was a very humbling experience!

2007-03-12T06:58:00.000-07:00

38 Week update

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6

Well the countdown is on. I am officially entering my final week of pregnancy. I have so many mixed emotions. I'm so ready to meet her, but I have really enjoyed being pregnant. Although my waddle has hit an all-time peak, my legs cramp a lot, my toes look like little smoky sausages, I have to use the bathroom constantly, I don't think Richard would say I'm as sweet as I used to be, my ankles are now "kankles", my bootie.... well, I won't even go there, I find that I don't mind at all.

I am so thankful for this little miracle inside of me. I love feeling her move and kick and I think I will really miss it. I can't wait for Richard to feel and get to know her like I have these past months. I want treasure every memory that we have had with this 1st pregnancy..... telling Richard, feeling nauseous every minute of the day the 1st trimester, seeing the heartbeat for the first time, feeling her kick for the 1st time, hearing the doctor say "it's a girl!", watching my body change and transform to provide for her.....It's all been so exciting!

Richard and I have tried to cram as much as we can into this past final weekend without children or family here. I have found that I have had this sudden burst of energy and I want to make sure everything gets done before she arrives. We cleaned the house good, completed the nursery, (except for the bed which is on backorder, so it's won't we here until a week after she is born) and ran errands that needed to be done. We also went on our final date, but it seemed every other thing out of our mouth was "Can you believe we're about to be parents?" or "I can't believe you're/I'm pregnant?" .... I guess it won't really set in until she's here.

I'm supposed to be induced a week from today, the 19th.
Please pray that she will wait till then so our family can all be here and for a healthy and safe delivery. Thanks for all your prayers thus far.
We will post as soon as she arrives!!

2007-02-14T13:48:00.000-08:00

My Love

I have found the one whom my soul loves. Song of Solomon 3:4

Although I rarely give "shout outs" to Richard, I feel like it is probably long overdue and
I can't think of a better day to do it than today. I don't know if its all the hormones that are going through me or just the fact that I realize now more than ever how much he does for me and loves me.

It's crazy to think back when we got married almost 5 years ago and how young we were. I thought then that I couldn't love him more than I did that day but I look at him today and I think that I didn't love him very much compared to today. I hope that it's always like this and I will always love him more tomorrow than today. It's so neat to look back and see how the Lord has planned every step that we have taken together and how much we have learned, how much we changed, how many mistakes we have made, and how very blessed we are.

Richard is everything that I ever pictured my husband would be and he makes me such a better person. He has been absolutely wonderful throughout my entire pregnancy and even loves to go out for late night cravings with me- you can't get any better than that!! I can't wait to see him as a father. I know that he will be wonderful.... he already is. He talks to Finley every morning and occasionally I will get him to bust out in song for her(he'll kill me for sharing that!). He loves to feel her moving and kicking and says the sweetest prayers for her. We know that our lives are about to drastically change and we are ready (sorta), but I am so thankful for the past 4 1/2 years we have grown together just as a couple.

Happy V-day Richie... I love you!!

2007-01-28T07:14:00.000-08:00

32 Weeks and Counting....

As the days are decreasing, that darn number on the scale keeps increasing.... I can't seem to figure it out. This week I went to the Dr. (gained 4 more pounds in 2 weeks) and she scheduled an induction date of March 19th. Wow... hearing that date makes it all that more real to both Richard and I. I requested a date so that our families could be here and luckily she was fine with it so 7 Weeks from tonight I will be in the hospital getting ready to explode, I'm sure, in more ways than 1.

I've been saying for months now that I am so ready for her to get here just so I can meet her and touch her (and also to be more comfortable) but really there are so many things about being pregnant that I have really loved. I love feeling her move around. I feel so connected to her and I just love feeling her respond to my laughter and movement. There are so many things that I find myself wondering about.... Does she like the sounds of our voices? Does she like it when we sing to her? Does she think we're weirdos? So much to think about and worry about in the days to come so please continue to pray for us as we prepare for this new chapter in our lives. We are so excited but very overwhelmed at the same time.

We got a 3-D ultrasound a few weeks ago and here are a couple of the images we got... I think she's gonna be a cutie (and very active)!!

2007-01-28T07:13:00.001-08:00

Nursery

The beginning of the nursery transformation has officially begun. We finished painting the bubblegum pink room last week and I have a couple checked off the list. I'm a little stressed because the bed and glider are not supposed to be in till the week she is born so keep your fingers crossed that they will get here on time. We have much more that has to be done to make sure that the princesses room is perfect so I'll be posting as we complete each task.

"Before you were conceived I wanted you. Before you were born I loved you. Before you
were here an hour I would die for you. This is the miracle of love." - Maureen Hawkins

2007-01-28T07:12:00.001-08:00

Bring on the PINK!!

Over Christmas I was given 2 showers for Finley. They were both wonderful and we got so much girly stuff. Richard and I are so amazed at how much she is already loved by so many people. We feel so blessed!! My fear now is that they didn't read the ultrasound correct and we are having a boy who will have a major identity crisis. I love all the pink though... I find myself just sitting in her room going through all the frilly stuff and imagining what she will look like in them. I'm getting more and more excited as each day passes and can't wait to finally meet her!! Here are some pics from my shower given by my besties up in NWA!! I love those girls!

2007-01-13T18:22:00.000-08:00

Oldies but Goodies

"We must ever be friends; and of all who offer you friendship let me be the first, the
truest, the nearest and dearest." - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Nothing is more fun for me than catching up with my dear friends from high school. At least once a year Amy, Martha, Lee and I make it a point to get together for a night of food and good gossip. This year after Christmas we met at PF Chang's then had a gift exchange at Lee's for our annual night. I must say that there is something about old friends that we can not talk for weeks or months, but when we get together it's just like old times and we just catch up where we left off. I love these girls and they will always have a special place in my heart. Things are changing in all of our lives as Amy just got married in October, Martha is due in June, and Lee just got engaged on New Year's Eve, but I hope no matter where the road leads us we can always make time to reunite the "box".

2007-01-13T17:33:00.000-08:00

Christmas in Arkansas

We had such a wonderful time back at home for Christmas!! I got to fly in on the 19th and Richard drove in on the 22nd. I drove back with Richard on the 30th and it was the hardest good-bye so far. Not just because of the 16 hour drive ahead of us, but with Finley coming Mid-March I'm not sure when the next time I'll get to go back will be. I've always looked forward to coming back to DC, but this time was different and I'm not sure I like it. Although it seems like a long time we still didn't get to spend enough time catching up with everyone. We are so blessed with great families and friends and here are some pics from the break.

Christmas Morning at Mom and Dad's

Christmas at Mamaw's

a Christmas tradition... all my little cousins come over and we make cookies/ gingerbread houses

2006-12-31T09:41:00.000-08:00

New York @ Christmas

We got to go again to NYC during Christmas time this year. I love just walking around and taking in all the sights and Christmas decor. It's one of my favorite places to be at my most favorite time of year. We met up with Clay and Cara Conly who were visiting from Northwest Arkansas and went and ate at Serendipity 3 and went to the Top of the Rock and I conquered my fear of heights... well, kinda. We also got to see the Rockettes and shop a lot!! Here are some pics from the weekend.

2006-12-06T16:40:00.000-08:00

New Niece

The Wednesday before Thanksgiving Emily Catherine Mays was born in Little Rock. We got to spend some time with her over Thanksgiving and she is the sweetest, most perfect little baby ever. It made me even more ready to meet Finley!! I am so glad that both Brooke and I are having girls so close together so they can be best buds. Brooke and Tom are such a great parents and it's so nice to have someone that has just gone through what you are going and are about to go through for both Richard and I.

2006-12-06T16:37:00.000-08:00

Christmas Decor

Since I've had my Christmas decorations up for a good month now I thought I would take some photos to share. I love decorating for Christmas and my hubby is so good about helping out. Last year we didn't get to put up a tree due to lack of room in our little apartment, so this year I went all out and put up all that would fit in our townhouse.

2006-12-05T19:54:00.000-08:00

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

Christmas, Christmas, Christmas! Can you believe that it's already almost here?? It's always been my most favorite time of year. I love to see kids get excited and I can't wait till next year when Finley will be here. They say that as you get older the excitement of Christmas tapers off but I don't think so. It's more than just the presents and decorations now... I love the way it makes you feel and just being together with the ones that you love.

Here are a few of my favorite Christmas things:

Christmas Eve afternoon at Mamaw's and that night at Memaw's
My dad reading the Christmas Story from Luke every Christmas morning.
Christmas Eve candlelighting service at Church
My family. All of them. The Hays' and the Vanhook's are the best people to spend holidays with.
My little cousins anticipating Santa
Martina McBride's "White Christmas"... the best Christmas CD ever, although last year Clay Aiken gave her a good run for her money
Driving around and looking at Christmas lights
Seeing a bunch of cars outside of a house because you know a family is celebrating
Driving past Wal-mart on the way back from my Grandma's house and hearing my dad say, "Look now kids, you won't see that parking lot empty again till next year!!" (<--it's a tradition)
Big fat colored lights
Gaggers!
Richard always having at least one surprise up his sleeve.
Nativity Scenes
Smells of Christmas... cinnamon, pine, apple cider, christmas cookies, etc.
Jesus...

I know that it is so cliche to say that Jesus is the reason for the season- but it's true. I hope that during all the hustle and bustle of this time that we all remember why we celebrate. I hope everyone has wonderful holiday season!!!

2006-11-29T14:55:00.000-08:00

Turkey Outreach

Richard and I along with our small group had the opportunity to help out with a Thanksgiving outreach with our church. We helped box up over 250 dry food boxes and delivered those with Turkey dinner boxes to families in inner city DC. It was really an amazing experience and we are so glad we had this opportunity to share Christ with others. We always say how blessed we are but never really realize it until you are put in a situation like that. All morning as we walked around and handed them out I thought to myself, "why am I so lucky ?" and "why isn't this me that someone is delivering to?" I don't know all the answers to the hard questions but I am so thankful for what I have and whose I am.

O Give thanks unto the Lord;
for he is good:
because his mercy endureth for ever.

Psalms 118:1

2006-11-29T14:05:00.000-08:00

Farewell Good Friend!!

Oliver made is final flight last Tuesday to go and stay permanently with with his Grammy and Pops in Arkansas. Richard and I made this tough decision when we started thinking about Finley coming home and we decided that it wouldn't be fair for Oliver. My parents graciously opened their home so we will still get to see him when go home but it was still harder than we thought!! He will always be our first "child" and we love him, but we know it was the right decision. (Many of you probably think it's a good thing after see how he gets dressed up!!)

2006-11-29T13:38:00.000-08:00

Williamsburg

Richard and I spent the weekend before Thanksgiving in Williamsburg, VA. It was fun just getting away from the city and Williamsburg is a really pretty old town. We went to Yorktown on Sunday but the weather was not cooperating so we cut it short. I am not really that in to all the history stuff but my hubby loves it so I go along and nod and pretend to know what he's talking about. We all know he puts up with me without complaining so it's really the least I could do.
Here are some pics from the weekend-

I finally popped!!

2006-11-01T14:49:00.000-08:00

Halloween is over let's Hear it for Santa!

Holiday Edition of Getting to Know Your Friends
Welcome to the 2006 Holiday Edition of Getting to Know Your Friends! Enjoy!! Everyone has time for a few moments of fun! Don't be a scrooge!!!

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Hot Chocolate
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Wraps
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? White lights
4. Do you hang mistletoe? kissing ball
5. When do you put your decorations up? I have already started!
6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? Sweet Potato Casserole with lots of brown sugar and butter!!
7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child: Santa bringing Princess, the most beautiful dog in the world, in 2nd Grade
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? Very young.... that's what happens when you have a ruthless older brother
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? Only at Mamaw's and Memaw's house
10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree? With red and apple green whimiscal ornaments!
11. Snow! Love it or Dread it? Love snow- not ice (especially with snow days!!)
12. Can you ice skate? No- I would break a limb
13. Do you remember your favorite gift? Can't remember 1 specific one
14. What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Being with all my family and continuing our traditions
15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? Hello Dollies
16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? Christmas Eve candlelighting service at church and big breakfasts on Christmas morning
17. What tops your tree? gold star
18. Which do you prefer giving or Receiving? The older I get the more I like giving than recieving
19. What is your favorite Christmas Song? O Holy Night and Holly Jolly Christmas and I'll be home for Christmas and..... can you really pick a favorite??
20. Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum? yum- (if it's the only thing sweet you got!)

2006-10-29T09:18:00.000-08:00

Last Weekend

Last weekend we had some friends from Northwest Arkansas come visit us. We love having visitors and it's always nice to hear someone else with a Southern accent! We went to NYC for the weekend where fall was in the air.... here are a few pics from the weekend.

Central Park

Skating Rink- Is it winter yet??

My silly Husband

Beautiful Fall Colors

Mums in Central Park

Carmen and I in Little Italy

2006-10-29T09:02:00.000-08:00

It's A....

Girl!! We found out Friday and as far as they can tell we're having a girl. I am so excited!! I always said that I wanted a boy first, mostly cause I have an older brother, but when I got pregnant for some reason I really wanted a girl! Her name will be Finley Grace Vanhook- no reason for the name we just both really like it and it's a little different.

We are mostly thankful that everything they could see on the ultrasound is normal and they said that she looked great!! She was being very active in there (maybe cause I had a carmel latte before going in there to help get her hyper!) which is weird cause I still don't feel like I feel her yet. She's pretty cute and I can't wait for all you to meet her.

2006-10-25T10:52:00.000-07:00

OK... I've been sucked into the life of blogging. I have never understood the significance of blogging, but I think that it is more or less just journaling your life... so here I go. There have been so many times that I have thought, "I need to write this down!" Of course, I never do, and the precious memories are forgotten and I know it's only going to get worse with kids.

The next few months will be exciting for me and my family and living so far away this is a good way for everyone to keep up. Richard and I are expecting a baby at the end of March. We are very intimidated by this huge responsibility but are confident that the Lord does not give you anymore than you can handle. We are excited and we find out in 2 days whether or not it will be a boy or girl so it's about to get really real.

I hope all who read enjoy and please feel free to comment.