All the Halls

Perfection is Paralyzing

2012-01-29T17:29:00.000-08:00

I'm happy to say that I'm dusting off the ol' blog and starting to post again.

Yes, there is never enough time. Yes, our life is crazy. But, I think the biggest factor for not posting is perfection. I want to craft perfectly written paragraphs with perfectly taken pictures...and when I can't, I don't.

So, here's my less-than-perfect, but otherwise written post. Our weekend was basically a usual Hall weekend - lots of cooking and kid-chasing.

One trip to Railroad Park - flew kites, rode bikes, chased kids.
Two batches of this amazing marinara sauce. Hello, slow cooker.
One batch of these, good-luck-finding-a-better-recipe brownies.
This chicken parmesan - yum.
This Pioneer Woman lasagna.
Six loads of laundry.
Four rounds of dishes - thank you Bosch dishwasher!
One case of conjunctivitis (Eleanor)
One new car seat. (Eleanor will be pleased to look at other things besides her toes.)
One rockin' sermon by Pastor Chris Hodges - wowzer.
Countless hours of running around outside in the sun. This is January?
A few, ok - several - cups of coffee.
One barre routine at Grand Jete.
One Handy-man Hall-built work bench.

Yep, that about covers it.

365 :: 7

2011-06-04T18:46:00.000-07:00

Oh, the weekends. Crazy. Beautiful. Tiring. Fun.

Today, all the Halls went on our usual Saturday morning date to Pepper Place Farmers Market. Well, sort of usual.

Today was National Cancer Survivors Day, and UAB hosted a local celebration at the market. As part of the planning committee, I had to be there at 5:00am. It wouldn't have been so bad except that Eleanor woke up at midnight and then at 2:30am. Her sister heard the screaming at 2:30 and didn't go back to bed until almost 4:00am. My alarm went of at 4:15am. Fun times.

[I'm sure this sounds familiar to many of you out there.]

Anyway, it was a great celebration and the rest of the Halls joined in around 7:30. That's when "the usual" came back - smoked pork and chicken with grits, chocolate croissant, iced coffee, and blueberry muffins. Oh, and messy kids.

The rest of the day, we watched Eleanor climb in and out of baskets and search the house for jewelry and scarves. It's crazy - she crawls around looking for necklaces, scarves and bracelets, and we find her accessorized so much she can barely get around. She's definitely going to be my girly-girl.

Great day. Happy it's bedtime.

365 :: 6

2011-06-03T19:23:00.000-07:00

Thought for the day ::

Long days + long week = tired parents. Geez.

365 :: 5

2011-06-03T19:19:00.000-07:00

Thoughts for the day ::

I'm amazed at Eleanor's vocabulary. At just 12 months, she can say an incredible number of words: mama, dada, sissy, pop pop, mimi, kate kate, (we are working on grandma and grandpa) bye bye, night night, thank you, more, uh oh and no. That's quite a list.

365 :: 4 Emma's Ballet Recital

2011-05-31T11:00:00.000-07:00

Well, it looks like I'm already behind on my posting...

Without further ado, I present to you the much anticipated ballet recital of Emma and friends.

Emma's Ballet Recital, May 2011 from Dugald Hall on Vimeo.

memories - in memory

2011-05-24T18:58:00.000-07:00

Wow. Life and death are but a mere moment apart.

Steve Malone, my former pastor - a man who taught me, challenged me and married Dugald and I is gone from this world.

My journey with Steve began at Red Mountain Church many, many moons ago. As a young 20-something I was searching for my next step in life. Unmarried and unattached, I had high hopes of escaping the Magic City.

While waiting on my next great idea, I began to attend Red Mountain Church. Steve Malone, then pastor, had been tapped to lead this new urban church - charged with a mission and vision for the community. To be frank, this place blew my mind. Incredible messages, incredible music (thanks, Brian T. Murphy) and communion like nothing I had ever experienced. Each week, I left overflowing - full of questions, full of challenges and full of life.

Let's just say, I never escaped.

My experience with Steve changed me forever. He taught and mentored me in a way that no one ever had. His words awakened in me to whole new life. He guided Dugald and I into a covenant with one another and Christ on our wedding day. If it sounds big, it is.

But his story was complicated, and in what felt like mere moments, his story at Red Mountain was over. His story with me was over.

Let's be honest, Steve made some poor choices. Choices with consequences that ran (ok, still run) very deep. I don't really know all that happened, but the experience left me with an immense understanding that we all should cling to Christ and pray for wisdom to walk away from sin.

At the end of the day, Steve Malone was created in the image of God. He was loved. He is missed.

Steve taught us a song that is sung when a child is baptized. We sang it often at Red Mountain, and I think of him every time I sing to my sweet girls.

I am Jesus' little lamb,
Ever glad at heart I am;
For my shepherd gently guides me,
Knows my needs and well provides me.
Loves me every day the same,
Even calls me by my name.

365 :: 2 & 3

2011-05-19T20:00:00.000-07:00

365 :: 2Happy babies = happy mornings

365 :: 3

Our first ballet recital was tonight. So cute!
Emma's style of dancing was more interpretive than classic, but she
had a WONDERFUL time. Will post pictures tomorrow.

365 :: 1

2011-05-17T20:00:00.000-07:00

Big little, little big.

Our world is crazy. Emma wants to be a baby; Eleanor wants to be a big girl.

Case in point - snapshot before dinner - Emma has found Eleanor's binkie and crawled into Eleanor's baby chair. Eleanor has found Emma's sucker and is sitting in a wooden chair with it hanging out the side of her mouth.

Hilarious.

So, I'm Committing - 365 :: A Year of Posts

2011-05-17T19:55:00.000-07:00

So, I'm committing to a post a day for a year - 365 :: A Year of Posts.

There are so many amazing little things that happen every day, it would be a real shame to miss out on these sweet memories.

What a Year!

2011-05-09T19:28:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's hard to believe that Eleanor is a year old. And what a year it has been.

We were so excited to add her to our little brood, but man, two kiddos have been really challenging.

Now don't get me wrong, every mom is a working mom. Motherhood (parenting, really) is a job that is never-ending and rarely does one get enough rest, encouragement or fulfillment (honest, but true). Add to that a full-time, in-the-office, do-I-have-an-outfit-without-milk-on-it-kind of job, and it can be kind of brutal.

For those that know me, I've tried the part-time job thing, but it doesn't work. My career path is not one that is easily left at the office, and one doesn't ever arrive at completion. It's a daily grind of what-should-I-do-next, so it's not exactly part-time friendly. The only thing that was part-time was the pay. And that's not cool.

So, with Eleanor's arrival, Dug and I decided that I should pursue full-time employment. Staying at home isn't an option (for those of you who are wondering). The good news was that I was able to transition my job without really changing employers, so the transition was probably less challenging than it might have been. But, it's been a big change and has forced us to make some changes.

The first one is about protecting our family time and making choices that really work for us. This has meant that after-5:00pm activities have been seriously restricted, as it's really the only time for us to spend with the kids and get ready for the next crazy day. This has meant that our church home of almost a decade just leaves us completely crazy starting out our week - so, it's left us with some tough decisions.

We feel good about the decisions we are making, as we prayerfully consider our options. It may seem at times that we are only thinking of ourselves, but honestly, our job as parents is to help create a home that is filled with love and honesty, not a million things to do. We've stayed well-connected with our community and have sought out new relationships. It's been a fearful, but fruitful time.

So, I leave this post with a promise to post more - I'm actually thinking about challenging myself to a post every day for a year. We aren't talking some complicated group of pictures with a play-by-play of our life, but a nice reflection on the day.

Here's one from last week's celebration of Eleanor's first birthday - so cute!

Such a Joy

2011-02-08T19:05:00.000-08:00

My kids are such a joy. Even in the midst of these challenging years, joy in the tiny moments are {often} enough to keep my heart full.

I ran across a journal with a single line for each day - basically a mom's journal with one thought about the day. A dear friend of mine does this, and I think it will be a true gift to my girls. So, I've decided to reflect each day with a thought for each of them.

I have to admit that I'm a little bummed about the fact that I didn't take the time to do this when Emma was a little one, but there's nothing I can really do about that, right?

Although I don't plan on blogging all of my thoughts, here are a few rolling around in my head from the past couple of weeks.

How can it be, Eleanor, that you are already pulling up and walking around objects? You are a mere nine months old {this week} - I'm not ready for this.

Emma, I love that you say "Magaline" for "Madeline" - your current favorite book.

Emma is obsessed with blueberries, even in this, the dead of winter. Each night before she goes to bed, she eats and entire bowl.

I'm amazed at the intensity of Eleanor's thoughts and emotions. Let's just say that she is quite spirited when she wants something. I'm thinking the twos just might be terrible.

Sleep, oh sleep, you are a mystery to me. Even now at nine months old, Eleanor eats twice a night!

Survivor Pantry :: Week One

2011-02-05T18:40:00.000-08:00

When the pantry gets too full for groceries, you know it's time to stop spending and start surviving.

As the new year rolled around, we found our shelves too full and freezer overflowing - so Survivor Pantry began. What's nice about forcing yourself to use what you have is that creativity seems to abound. We allow ourselves to buy fresh meat if needed, and of course, food for the kiddos. The other thing we instituted is a weekly pizza night, which is a lifesaver in the middle of the week.

So, week one was a great success. It's been freezing here, so comfort food is on the mind.

Saturday :: A good ol' lasagna -- this recipe from The Pioneer Woman is great.

Sunday :: Sante Fe Chowder from Moosewood Restaurant - I love this soup! Super easy and pantry-friendly.

Monday :: Lasagna leftovers

Tuesday :: Chowder leftovers

Wednesday :: Pizza night!!

Thursday :: Five spice pork tenderloin and roasted sweet potatoes

Friday :: Tomato, red pepper and spicy sausage risotto - no recipe, sorry...it's a Dugald special.

Week one was a success. In the queue for week two - Saturday morning scones, homemade barbeque chicken with cornbread topper (ala Rachel Ray), breakfast potatoes and poached eggs, and whatever else we can figure out...

Holly-day

2011-01-13T18:55:00.000-08:00

Better late than never, right?...

It was such a nice Christmas.

Although we are always happy to visit family, staying at home for our first Birmingham Christmas was a welcome new addition.

No bag packing, kid wrestling, no plotting and scheming...just a little cleaning and we were off to the races.

Emma has reached the age where Christmas is much more exciting. Her reaction to every Christmas tree, plastic yard Santa and ornament is pure elation...and quite amusing. It was also wonderful to have her learn more about the true celebration of Christmas, although I must say that Jesus, Santa and reindeer are all a bit confusing for a three year-old.

I, personally, was very emotional throughout the entire Advent season. It was quite a mix of emotions, really. This was our family's first Christmas at our own home, and our first Christmas with sweet Eleanor.

At 7 1/2 months, didn't have a clue about what was going on, but was thrilled to have three more people to entertain.

It was such a sweet time, but as with most holidays, it was bittersweet. With family all over the world, we don't have the opportunity to celebrate with everyone...at least in person. That said, Skype keeps the smiles coming through the ability to video chat. It melts my heart to see running to the computer the moment she hears the familiar voices of Grandma and Grandpa.

Life is sweet, folks. We have to take every moment captive, as we don't know what is around the bend.

Enjoy our photos!

A Change Gonna Come

2010-12-10T18:31:00.000-08:00

I saw a dear friend today, and she said something that really struck me. We were talking about life and its stages, and she said (to paraphrase), "Not every friendship is meant for a lifetime." It doesn't mean that the friendship didn't serve its purpose, but sometimes people and places aren't meant for forever.

This just isn't something I've been able to incorporate without serious angst...yet.

Whenever I start to feel a transition creeping in, it paralyzes me. I tumble into this over-thinking mess, running through every possible scenario and its resulting negative effects. The troubleshooter in me tries to figure out a way to fix the problem -- when there might not be a problem at all. Maybe it's just time to move on to the next thing.

I worry about the loneliness that I will feel. I worry about what people might think or say. I worry it will be the wrong decision. But honestly, it rarely is.

I have to learn to trust. I must trust that when my heart feels the transition on the horizon, maybe it's the Lord's way of preparing me for what new adventures He has for me and my family.

A blog...

2010-11-22T18:21:00.000-08:00

A blog can many things to many people. At times, an online stream of consciousness, others a photographic journey through the life and times. This little blog has been more the latter than the former, but I'm thinking times are a changin'.

I've not kept up with the blog because I haven't really had the time to put together a beautiful sequence of photos complete with cute descriptions. Maybe it's because our life hasn't felt like beautiful photos and cute descriptions, although I dare say that, since Eleanor is pretty cute.

So, for now, I've decided to use this blog as defined by many is a stream of thoughts...and maybe throw in a cute picture or two.

Park Playday

2010-07-18T20:43:00.000-07:00

Big Little, Little Big

2010-07-18T20:32:00.000-07:00

Let's just say that Emma and Eleanor are a bit different...at least in size.

We went to Emma's three year check up and Eleanor's two month.

Here are the stats:

Emma (Little Big)
Age: 3
Weight: 26 pounds, 14 ounces (15 percentile)
Height: 33 inches (not quite on the chart)

Eleanor (Big Little)
Age: 2 months
Weight: 13 pounds, 4 ounces (95 percentile)
Height: 23 inches (95 percentile)

They are both in great health, and all is well!

In the Kitchen

2010-07-01T18:06:00.000-07:00

We (the girls) have been at my parent's house for the week. It gives us a chance to visit with everyone and gives dear ol' Daddy Dugald a brief respite, too.

One of the benefits of having extra hands to help with the kiddos is time for me to cook in the kitchen. Their have been a few recipes (well, maybe a hundred) that I have wanted to try, but life at home isn't really set up for that right now.

So...

I got to try out this incredible coffecake and these great potatoes . They both turned out really well -- I highly recommend them. They are courtesy of The P ioneer Woman, as are the images.

Not approved by the American Heart Association :)

A Labor of Love: Basement Renovation Part One

2010-06-22T09:18:00.000-07:00

Our basement remodel has been quite a labor of love. We are very happy with the way things are turning out.

Here is the first of a few posts on our project. A before and after of the basement bathroom:

Last Day of School

2010-06-22T08:50:00.000-07:00

Still catching up.

Here are some pictures from Emma's last day of school for her 2-year class.

My baby has been replaced with a little girl!

nice to see you again

2010-06-12T10:35:00.000-07:00

it's hard to get it all done.

marriage, kids (yes, plural), work, laundry, meals, friends, blog, sleep (what's that?) and the fifteen million other tasks we have.

that said, i want to revive our little blog.

so, here goes.

welcome to the world, eleanor mclean hall.

born may 5, 2010 at 4:36pm, weighing 8 pounds and 1 ounce, and measuring 20 1/2 inches.

love,
dugald . kristen . and big sister emma.

p.s. thanks to angie davis for the great photos.

Pumpkins, Chickens and Gnomes - Oh my!

2009-12-06T19:21:00.001-08:00

As promised, pictures of our Halloween festivities.

It all started out with a day in the pumpkin patch at school, followed by a parade through the streets of Homewood, and the finale - garden gnome and chicken take on Publix.

Autumn 2009 in Review

2009-12-06T18:27:00.000-08:00

Autumn 2009 was a busy time for us!

We found out we were expecting a new little one in May 2010, traveled to the North Georgia Mountains to pick apples, celebrated Halloween with a pumpkin, garden gnome and a feathered chicken (next post), and marked our fourth anniversary...with a night away!

Here's the recap in pictures:

Where Have You Gone My Lovelies?

2009-10-17T08:06:00.000-07:00

Managing family, work, friends and community is a challenge for everyone...and we are no different.

That said, we hope to keep our blog better updated!

We have quite a lot of catching up to do!

These Boots Were Made for Walking...

2009-08-15T19:14:00.000-07:00

The video says it all...

Emma Walks! from Dugald Hall on Vimeo.

In the Kitchen: Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble

2009-07-29T17:21:00.000-07:00

The combination of tart rhubarb, sweet strawberries and the buttery crunch of crumble topping is hard to beat.

For the topping:

1&1/2 cup AP flour
3/4 cup turbinado sugar
3/4 cup granulated sugar
8 tablespoons (1 stick) of cold, unsalted butter, 1/2 inch cubes
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
dash of nutmeg

For the filling:

2 cups strawberries, quartered
2 cups rhubarb, cut into 1/2 inch pieces**
1/2 cup turbinado sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch (or AP flour)
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the topping, combine all ingredients and work the butter with your hands until all butter has been incorporated and crumbs begin to form. Refrigerate for 20 minutes.

For the filling, combine all ingredients in large bowl and stir well. Place filling in large dish or divide into smaller ramekins. Top with chilled crumb topping.

Bake at 400 degrees F for 25 - 30 minutes until crumble is browned and the fruit is bubbling. Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Lock the door - your neighbors are coming to visit.

**If you are fortunate enough to have a neighborhood Publix, they carry wonderful frozen rhubarb.

Image courtesy of Sunday Suppers.

R.I.P. Squirrels

2009-07-22T14:04:00.000-07:00

Let's just say the battle has begun.

The colony of squirrels that call our property (and often attic) home have, until this point, been tolerated. I wouldn't call a peaceful relationship, but we have made it work.

Until now.

Dugald and I were very excited that our beautiful crop of sweet corn was ready. We decided to wait a day or two to pick it - planning one of our weekday meals around it.

This is what Dugald found after a trip to the garden:

Every single ear of corn had been eaten by the squirrels in one night! Let's just say we won't have this problem next year. R.I.P. you fluffy, little destroyers.

I Knew This Day Would Come

2009-06-24T14:13:00.001-07:00

So, I knew this day would come...and I knew it was close.

It's here.

Weekend Warriors

2009-06-23T12:37:00.001-07:00

Ask and ye shall receive...or something like that.

Two weeks ago, Dugald and I put on our landscaper-hats (and gloves) and set out to build a pathway for my parent's house. My parents (mom) had been wanting a path from their front steps to the driveway for some time -- it's quite a distance, let me tell you.

So, after many hours, pavers and retaining walls blocks, the project is finished.

A Snapshot: Scotland

2009-05-23T14:07:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's been a while since we posted on our little blog. Honestly, without the details, it's been quite a time in the Hall household. That said, we have just returned from an incredible time in Scotland. Here's a snapshot:

The Hall trio at Edinburgh Castle.

Our sweet cousin, Henry, at the Standing Stones of Stenness.

Mom and Emma at the Italian Chapel.

The puffin-hunting crew at Marwick Bay.

The Ben Nevis Distillery

Ferns growing on a stone wall at Duart Castle.

Park Days

2009-03-15T13:25:00.000-07:00

The weather has been crazy for the past few weeks, but we have managed to get in some time at the park. Mimi was able to spend some time at the park during her visit, too!

Snow Day

2009-03-15T13:10:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the belated blogging, folks, busy times at the Hall homestead.

Late winter/early spring weather is always crazy here in Alabama, and this year is no exception. One weekend it is sunny and warm, the next it's cold and white.

Most of you already know -- Emma loves snow!

Hugs and Kisses

2009-02-12T09:15:00.000-08:00

Here's your valentine...a little early.

Want Some Lovin'?

2009-01-24T21:29:00.000-08:00

I just had to post this separately.

Emma loves her Auntie JoJo -- and it shows! Here is a series of pics taken at the airport. Need a five minute hug? Give Emma a call - she's got it covered.

Vancouver, Part Deux

2009-01-21T11:27:00.000-08:00

The rest of our Vancouver trip was great. It was definitely a white Christmas, which was great fun.

We had a relaxing Christmas morning opening our Christmas stockings. We moved on to breakfast and chasing Emma up and down the stairs. We then moved on to some nibbles, and the Hall tradition of Dugald dressing up like Santa Claus and the Christmas Fairy (Jo) passing out gifts.

In the afternoon we had Christmas dinner, and then headed out for some time in the snow. Emma was in heaven! We even made a snowman!

All in all, we had a great visit. It was nice to visit with Dugald's family for Christmas -- his first in six years. Lots of snow and laughter, and a few tears as we had to say goodbye.

DJ Emma

Just hanging with JoJo

Playing in Mom's boots.

Just catching up on some reading.

Nibbles...

Frosty - nice view, eh?

Christmas table

Snow baby!

Hall Trio

Snow anyone?

Cup-o'-tea?

Dad & Dug at the Vancouver airport

Vancouver, Part One

2008-12-24T12:11:00.001-08:00

Snow anyone?

After a long day of travels on Monday, we made it to Auntie Jo and Uncle Andrew's house in Horseshoe Bay. It had been snowing for a bit, so our trek from the airport was quite an adventure in the minivan. Needless to say, Grandma, Grandpa, Auntie J and Uncle A were happy to see us!

Emma's first plane trip was great -- she was such a trooper, especially with the 16-hour cross country haul. She LOVED the plane and made quite a few friends in the surrounding rows -- anyone surprised?

On Tuesday, we took our first trek in the snow - down to the bay and back. Emma was happy to be outside bundled up in the freezing weather. We have plans for her first real snow angel.

We've settled in well and enjoying some much needed R&R. The snow is continuing to fall, so it's pretty clear we will have a white Christmas.

Happy Holidays!

Hanging out on the plane.

Playing with chalk with Grandma.

Dad, Emma, Jo, Grandma & Grandpa in Horseshoe Bay.

All bundled up with Jo.

Snow angel!

Out on an adventure!

Let it snow!

The Hall Trio in Horseshoe Bay

All bundled up with Dad

What's going on out there?

It was a long November...

2008-12-04T11:05:00.000-08:00

November proved to be quite a long month for the Hall trio. We started out the month with Emma's 15-month appointment, which went just fine. She had some mild conjunctivitis, but nothing major. Coming in at an astounding 18 lbs and 1 oz. (about 8.2 kg), Emma came squealing in at the 3rd percentile for weight and 25th for height - she's petite...not a surprise.

The pediatrician didn't seem too concerned about her not walking - normal variation for walking is 12-18 months, so we went along our way. After about a week, we landed back in the office with a fourth ear infection in four months. After seeing a different pediatrician, we walked out with an ENT referral, and two others...just to make sure all is well with her development. Unfortunately, Emma's minor conjunctivitis was shared with her dear mother, so I headed off to the opthamologist a few days later for $30 eyedrops...ouch.

The next week we went to the ENT, and he scheduled her for tubes two days later. Bright and early at 5:30am, we headed off to outpatient surgery. She did really well -- and they have made such a huge difference. Within days, she was wild -- crawling all over the house and constantly talking.

Looking forward to the Thanksgiving holidays, we packed up for our second trip home of the month. About 40 miles out of town, traffic slowed to a crawl and then stopped for two hours. Although we were stuck in traffic, it wasn't all bad, as Dugald received a job offer from the UAB Research Foundation. We had been waiting all month to hear some news -- and news it was!

Our Thanksgiving holiday was great - it was nice to spend a few days away from the grind. Emma surprised us all by pulling up on the window sill and saying "pop," "yeah" and "baby" in one weekend.

Although our month was long and frustrating, we have much for which to be thankful. Dugald's new job is a new direction for him personally as well as our family. We are truly grateful for his new opportunity - as many others are not so fortunate in today's economy.

On a ride at Mimi and Pop's house.

Feeling much better after tubes!

Sweet Emma with Daddy.

Ear infection & fever -- but look at those rosy cheeks.

Fascinated by the sunlight on her fingers.

Turkey frying -- our new holiday tradition.

YEAH!

The Thanksgiving trio.

Hanging out with Auntie Kate at the fire station.

Thanksgiving family...

This and That

2008-11-08T11:42:00.000-08:00

Things are pretty good here in the Hall household. To be honest, it's been a tad stressful on a number of fronts, but we are keeping on keeping on.

We've tried to spend as much time outside in the glorious autumn weather. Last week was a bit warm, but the nights have finally cooled off again...lovely.

Here's a little of this and a little of that from the past week or so.

The ball popper -- our favorite!

Flower princess after her bath.

Giving Daddy kisses at the park.

Hall trio at the park at dusk.

Giggle box! (with beautiful leaves)

Gorgeous fall leaves from our neighbor's tree.

Golden carpet...

Just Buzzin' Around

2008-11-05T17:31:00.001-08:00

Emma was such a cute bumblebee! It was actually freezing here the week of Halloween, so Emma was happy to keep on her costume. On Tuesday, we headed over to Homewood for a costume parade. On Wednesday, all of the kids dressed up at school. Finally, on Friday, Allison took her to Whole Foods for a little party in the morning, and then we headed to our friends for another celebration. Quite a week!

Emma and John enjoying a morning snack.

Little ladybug!

After the parade

On the playground with Dad.

Don't worry, bee happy!

Sweet thing!

Stella with her flower power.

I Heart the Park

2008-10-26T13:21:00.001-07:00

We love Triangle Park. I think it's a mother's best friend. When the natives get restless, it's the perfect solution.

This morning was beautiful - cool, but sunny - and perfect for the park. Emma and I headed over while Daddy worked in the garden...damn squirrels.

With my mom...

She loved the slide today!

Always happy swinging...

Stripes, stripes and stripes!

Ahh, autumn...

2008-10-21T16:25:00.000-07:00

No major news here, folks -- notice a theme?

We are just enjoying the nice, breezy days of autumn.

Hanging with Mom...

Who me, attitude?

Happy girl!

A Day at the Dairy

2008-10-09T12:46:00.000-07:00

We were very excited when our friends, the Barretts, asked us to join them on a trek to the dairy. As part of a local dairy co-op, they were responsible for the week's dairy pickup. Wright Farm Dairy, located just outside of Anniston, Alabama, is an organic dairy farm - where happy cows reside. Their milk is amazing, as well as their ice cream and butter (provided through an Amish community). It was great fun.

Emma LOVED the cows, really loved the cows. I think she kicked and squealed for about 20 straight minutes. Although, am I surprised? Of course not, Dugald did grow up on a dairy farm...

Snack time

Affectionate calf...

I WANT IT!

Jumping in excitement!

Mmm...ice cream

Krys and Mimi

The crew...

Milking time...

Mimi was so happy to run around outside!

Drive-thru organic milk -- wow!

Weekly Round-up

2008-10-04T06:52:00.000-07:00

No major news to report here. The weather has been beautiful, so we have been spending as much time outside as possible. Emma LOVES the park. Here are some pictures of our Thursday morning with our friends, Stella and Mimi.

Time with Family

2008-10-04T06:21:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we headed to my parents for a weekend visit. It was a beautiful weekend - we all had a great time.

Sweet thing...

On the phone with Pop

Just chillin' in the rocking chair

Cool morning air!

Emma loved the wagon!

Sweater Weather

2008-09-24T09:10:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist...

Fall Fever

2008-09-24T08:26:00.001-07:00

It is definitely fall fever at the Hall household. The weather has been so wonderful -- and as such, the doors have been open to let in the cool autumnal air. It's so nice...

The minute the temperature starts dropping, I get the cleaning fever. I start dreaming of organized linen closets, swept porches, and no air conditioning. Not that that will ever be a reality, but a mama sure can try.

Over the weekend, we spent as much time outside as possible - cleaning up our back porch and building stuff. Dugald found some free lumber outside of a local business, so he started building extra shelving for the basement. We were so thankful for our pack-n-play and mosquito net...the bugs can't resist a sweet baby girl.

Reduce, reuse, recyle, right?

Shelving is soon a reality...

Playing outside!

Taking in the view -- and cooler air.

This is one of the funniest things -- I'm sure she has no idea what she is doing, except for the fact that I practically fall over in laughter every time she does it.

Pancake Party

2008-09-17T18:47:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday, the Hall trio and the Barrett trio headed over to the Grants for a pancake breakfast. It was so much fun to hang out with friends!

Barrett on the move!

Emma loves the slide.

On the swing with Mom...

Benjamin had so much fun!

Always happy riding around...

Brian and Mimi on the slide!

Benjamin had too much fun!

Cruising

2008-09-17T18:04:00.001-07:00

No big news here...just cruising along.

Happy outside!

I'm so hungry, I'll have to eat my toes!

Oooh, NOISE!

Happy clapping!

Oh, so, tired.

Morning Light

2008-09-08T09:13:00.000-07:00

I love taking pictures of Emma in the soft, morning light. She was fascinated with a little leaf...

August Round-up

2008-09-02T15:33:00.000-07:00

I have to be honest, August was a CRAZY month for the Hall trio. Birthday parties, doctor appointments, new school program (2 days a week), new nanny (Carrie started an internship), Stokin' the Fire BBQ Festival, Artwalk preparation, work -- and well, it was August in Alabama...hot and humid.

Don't get me wrong, we had some fun times, but I sure am glad it's September.

Emma at Barrett's 3rd birthday

Sweet Emma :)

A very wet Stokin' the Fire BBQ Festival

Emma's first day at school with Ms. Lori

Flying baby!

Like my hair? I did it myself.

Just hanging with Dad

At Urban Standard for Saturday breakfast.

Sweet Girl

2008-08-20T19:35:00.003-07:00

Need I say more?

Barretts and Barrettes

2008-08-20T18:58:00.000-07:00

After weeks of oogling over sweet, yet overpriced, baby barrettes, my friend Krys Barrett and I decided to have a little barrette party. Our girls played and roamed around the house, while we made magic with ribbon and hot glue. A few hours later, our Fall 2008 collection was complete.

Ohdeedoh!

2008-08-04T08:12:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite sites is Apartment Therapy. They have a site devoted just to modern baby stuff called Ohdeedoh. Check out Emma's birthday shout -- it's too cute!

http://www.ohdeedoh.com/ohdeedoh/happy-birthday/happy-birthday-bennett-057691

P is for Party

2008-07-31T17:07:00.000-07:00

Wow, can you believe that Emma is one?! It's really hard to believe that her first year is over...

To celebrate this milestone, we invited over some friends for a birthday brunch. It was so much fun! It was amazing to watch Emma with everyone - she was so happy. We, of course, were a bit nervous, wondering if Emma would fold or flower with all of the attention, but she was the hit of the party.

Daddy and daughter

A year in pictures

Who is this toddler?!

Happy Birthday to you!

I like cupcakes!

Strawberry cupcakes with sprinkles, please.

Happy Halls!

I couldn't help myself!

Happy Friday!

2008-07-18T16:33:00.000-07:00

It has been a really busy July! We are celebrating four birthdays this month! Jo, Dug's oldest sister -- (July 7th), Dugald (July 24th), Kristen's Dad (July 30th), and our sweet Emma (July 31st)!!

Here are some fun photos from today!

Cawl me!

Hi!

Sweet girl...

I'm so funny!

Almost a Year!

2008-07-07T18:17:00.000-07:00

We cannot believe that Emma's first birthday is in a few weeks! We have finally convinced her that sitting up is more interesting than laying around. Although she doesn't love it as much as rolling and scooting on her back, but it's progress.

The world is cool from up here!

Blowing kisses

What's in here?

One of our favorite games!

Stars and Stripes

2008-07-07T15:04:00.001-07:00

This past weekend, Emma celebrated her first Fourth of July! We had a wonderful time celebrating with friends. We headed over to the Stones for our traditional festivities. With six adults and five children, it was a great adventure. We really wanted to stay for the fireworks, but decided that maybe next year might be better.

We stopped by the Barretts on our way home - they were having a family barbeque, and it was great to see them as well. We made it home to put Emma to bed and watched the fireworks on TV.

Red, white and blue!

The crew (L2R: Ellabee, John, Molly, Anne Bailey, Dugald, Kristen, Emma, Capp, Kevin, Laurie and Audrey)

The Hall Trio

Excited Emma!

Molly with Anne Bailey and Emma

Up in the Smokies

2008-07-07T14:35:00.000-07:00

The last weekend in June, the Hall trio headed up to Gatlinburg, Tennessee with Mimi, Pop and Auntie Kate. It was nice to get away for a bit in the mountains. We actually didn't do that much, which was really nice. We did introduce Emma to the pool -- which she loved!

It was a bit chilly, but she loved the water!

Splish, splash!

Surf's up, dude.

Big girl!

Auntie Kate and Pop

Hippies Smell

2008-06-23T12:41:00.000-07:00

I know it's not my usual post, but I had to share!

Nestled in the corner of my office were three cases of beer. Bud Light to be exact - two years passed its "best by" date...if there really is such a thing for BL. They were left over from an event two years ago, and I had never dealt with them. I had planned on giving them away, but by the time I realized it, they were already expired.

Every day they taunted me. I really needed to get rid of them, but the idea of throwing all of it in the trash made the green in me a bit, well, green.

I wasn't sure what to do with them, but today I decided that enough was enough, and they had to go. So, I trucked them down the hall to the kitchen and proceeded to empty and rinse three cases of beer cans. They, of course, exploded all over the place; each can like a stale beer firecracker. Ugh...

When it was all said and done, I had 72 recycle-ready cans, all nicely repacked into their cases. Instead of the landfill, they will find a new home at the downtown recycling center.

I hope it was all worth it -- because now I and the kichen wreak of a frat party.

Favorite Friday Photos

2008-06-20T18:11:00.001-07:00

Emma is learning all sorts of new things! She learned how to blow kisses this week, began to clap, is mastering a straw and (we think) is understanding some signs. Just today, I learned that she actually understands commands verbally - instead of just mimicking. We were at the salon, and I told her to blow a kiss, and she did - much to my surprise. It's really amazing to watch her change.

Happy in the morning...

Still waking up

Mom and bebe

Hungry, hungry hippo

I'm a big girl!

Look at that belly!

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-15T09:12:00.001-07:00

Here's to you Dug, a great husband and father.

Early Summer Harvest

2008-06-14T13:06:00.001-07:00

Our summer garden is growing fast! We have been fortunate to have almost daily rainshowers, so the plants are very happy.

We had a small, spring crop of garden peas. broccoli, and lettuces. Our first summer harvest was yesterday -- red and sweet yellow onions!

We look forward to a long, summer harvest - this year we have brussels sprouts, green beans, butternut squash, cantaloupe, tomatoes, sweet peppers, yellow squash and zucchini.

Onion harvest

Sprouts, green beans and butternut squash (left to right)

Yellow squash - first flowers

Tomatoes (front) and sweet peppers (back)

Favorite Friday Fotos

2008-06-13T16:47:00.000-07:00

Here are some favorite photos for this Friday...

I like outside!

Camera, please!

Who you lookin' at?

Happy!

Sweet thing...

Much Ado

2008-06-09T18:19:00.000-07:00

The smallest things can bring the greatest joy these days. Emma has learned how to feed herself - and it is the cutest thing! Her current favorites are bananas, avocados, and blueberries.

Fan favorite - banana!

Mess maker...

Mmm, avocado!

D is for Destruction Part Deux

2008-05-27T15:44:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a difference a few days with a Bobcat can make! After many, many hours of sweat equity, our backyard is well on its way to fabulous!

Thanks to Dugald and my parents, we removed quite a lot of debris from our backyard, as well as two huge camellia bushes from the front.

It is quite a transformation!

Just a reminder of before...

And after!

Just a few sticks...

Bye, bye camellias!

Transplanting camellias to the backyard.

Caution, men at work!

Sweetie Pie

2008-05-23T18:00:00.000-07:00

Emma is growing up fast! Her personality is quickly becoming evident. She's got some spunk, there is no doubt about it.

Cutie Pie!

I want food NOW!

Just kidding...

Love my Daddy...

D is for Destruction

2008-05-23T15:29:00.000-07:00

So, the dream is finally becoming a reality...

A weekend Bobcat rental, five cubic yards of topsoil and 4 work-free days are helping transform our backyard - filled with uprooted tree stumps and overgrown bushes - into a lush, green landscape.

Here are highlights from day one -- and yes, that is me digging up a huge tree stump. Get out of the way!

Before

Dugald the Destroyer

Kristen the Crusher

That stump was no match for me!

End of Day One

B is for Boring

2008-05-15T11:31:00.000-07:00

The over-achiever in me is always a bit restless - seeking new ideas and experiences. And when things get a bit mundane, I start twitching. That said, I am having to re-examine my idea of boring. The word "boring" in most settings has a bad connotation, as though chaos and excitement were superior to the mundane.

However, after watching my friends and acquaintances experience death, divorce and sorrow over the last year, all I can say is, "Thank you, Lord, for boring." Our family is healthy and happy; we have a beautiful group of friends and loved ones; we have jobs-- it may not be the most exciting, but at this stage in our life, excitement isn't always best.

Flowers and Friends

2008-05-15T09:47:00.000-07:00

We were so excited when our friends Anna Lynn and James told us they were coming into town for a wedding in May. Anna Lynn was my college roommate, matron of honor and present when Emma was born -- and we hadn't seen her since! Their two girls, Leah and Elise, were growing like wild, and it was time we all had a good visit.

After their cousin's wedding, we all headed to the Botanical Gardens for a nice stroll on a bright, spring day. We all had a great time - and it was great to finally have all of our girls together in one picture!

Leah, Emma and Elise

Leah and Elise playing in the bird bath

Happy baby!

Mom and me...

Anna Lynn and Emma

It's a Magic City

2008-04-29T17:54:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at Magic City Art Connection this past weekend!

Dugald was out of town on a guy's trip to the Talladega for a Nascar race, so Emma's Mimi and Pop came over from Dalton to help out. They were troopers, eventhough it was a lot of work.

The weekend was a great success (for both Dugs and I) - here are some pictures from the show.

Maybe I can entice Dugald to post about his Nascar weekend.

Check out the new display furniture that Dugald made!

The elves have been busy in the studio!

Emma hanging out with her Pop.

We love our Carrie!

(Check out Emma's necklace)

Strawberry Pickin' -- Sort of...

2008-04-21T19:31:00.001-07:00

In retrospect, it would have been a good idea to call before heading down I-65, but we were so excited, it seemed a bit obsessive. Well, live and learn.

After packing up at 7:45am, we headed over to the Barrett's to meet our fellow travelers. Mimi and Emma were ready to go, so we set out for Chilton County, Alabama. Picking strawberries has been on "our list" for a number of years, so we were excited to finally mark it off. The weather was sunny, but cool -- perfect for a couple of hours in a strawberry patch.

After a number of miles down county roads, we arrived at Sunshine Farm - only to realize they were closed due to overpicking the week prior. SAD! It seemed silly to drive all the way back without berries, so we headed over a few miles to Durbin Farms Market and "picked" out some beautful berries. Two gallons later, we hit the road back to Birmingham.

We are still planning on going back in a few weeks, but we sure will call before we go. This trip wasn't a loss, though, we have seven jars of strawberry jam to show for our efforts!

Ahh, spring!

2008-04-18T16:57:00.000-07:00

No real news to report. All is well here - just enjoying the spring weather! We spent this past weekend planting a garden bed on the side of the house...blue salvia, columbines, and lavender.

This weekend we are heading down to Chilton County to pick strawberries - we promise to post pictures!

Nice and Sunny

2008-04-03T16:28:00.000-07:00

Not much new here, just enjoying the nice, warm weather. Oh, and look at those teeth!

Happy Easter!

2008-03-27T10:19:00.000-07:00

Emma's first Easter was spent in Dalton with her Mimi and Papaw. She looked so cute in her sweet, white dress...with her legwarmers (I'm addicted to these things!) It was quite chilly on Easter, so she had to stay warm!

After church, we headed to Bea's Restaurant - quite a tradition at the Farmer household. After eating too much fried chicken and drinking too much sweet tea, the Halls hit the road for Birmingham. Emma slept almost the entire trip - being cute takes a lot of work!

Also, thanks to all of our family for her sweet Easter gifts!

I like bunnies!

Just me and Mom...

I'm tired!

I'm snuggly!

Life is fun!

Easter dress!

I'm happy!

Nice and Easy

2008-03-20T09:38:00.000-07:00

Things around here have been pretty normal. We are in the midst of spring, so we are spending as much time in the garden as possible. Dugald constructed a border around the garden with a path in the middle. It is so nice! We have planted a few cool weather crops: broccoli, brussel sprouts, peas, onions and lettuces. We are really looking forward to our garden this year. As I was quite pregnant last summer, I wasn't much help!

Emma is growing fast! She has two lower teeth and quickly growing blonde hair. She loves food and has quite an affinity for yog(h)urt. She is eating well and sleeping well, so we can't ask for much more.

This past weekend, we went to our first Easter Egg Hunt...it was quite a time!

Oh so happy!

Just hanging with Dad...

Easter Egg Hunt, with our friends Brian and Mimi.

Who me, blonde?

Just chilling...

Hyacinths in bloom!

Framed garden (with oats)

Does this bib make me look fat?

Busy Bee

2008-03-10T07:58:00.000-07:00

Every day with Emma is such an adventure...especially since she is in constant motion. Rolling, wriggling, and scooting around are her new favorite activities. I didn't realize she could scoot on her back until last week when I put her on her playmat and jumped in for a quick shower. I looked out the bathroom door to check on her, and she was about six feet from her original location. She had scooted on her back off the playmat and around the side of the couch. Yikes! Her daddy jokes she has a bad case of wriggle-itis! Once she learns to crawl, we are in big trouble.

I love my jumperoo, thanks Mimi!

Out on another adventure!

Are you getting a picture of this?

Mmm, yog(h)urt!

Just hanging out with my Dad!

Who knew she would be interested in Buzzy Bee at such a young age! We decided that this was probably not the best toy right now...choking hazard?!

We love our legwarmers - thanks Grandma!

Let it Snow...Again!

2008-03-08T17:21:00.000-08:00

We were quite excited when we heard there was a chance of snow. However, after years of snow in the forecast, we were hopeful, but realistic. So, like little children on Christmas morning, we were up at the first sign of light peaking out the window in hopes of seeing white.

Emma, of course, helped us with this task when she decided that 4:45am was when the party would start for the day. Much to our surprise, everything was aglow with snow! Although it lasted for mere hours, it was long enough to count.

Six Months Old!

2008-02-05T12:23:00.000-08:00

Wow, how the time flies. It seems like yesterday that Dugald and I were preparing for our little one's arrival - and now she's already six months old. All the parents out there are nodding their heads in agreeance, I know.

Other than this little milestone, there isn't much to report. Emma is eating a bit of food; her favorite is prunes, as noted by the picture below. No more snow in the forecast, it is actually 75 F - perfect weather for tornadoes in February. Strong storms are predicted tonight, so hopefully all will remain calm.

Here are few pictures of our little Emma, who is rolling around like crazy. The mobility is frightening, at least for her parents!

Let It Snow!

2008-01-20T17:26:00.001-08:00

Living in the South, one gets a bit excited when the snowflakes start to fall. So, we wrapped up Emma in some warm, winter gear and headed outside with the camera. Albeit short-lived, our snow was so much fun!

Sweetheart

2008-01-15T06:52:00.001-08:00

So, maybe it is picture overload, but Emma looked so sweet in these photos. I just had to post a few! She's such a love!

Ho! Ho! Ho!

2007-12-27T07:17:00.001-08:00

Emma's first Christmas was quite an adventure!

Prior to leaving Birmingham, we made Emma's first trip to see Santa. All was going well, but the line was quite long, so by the time we made it to see Father Christmas, Emma was ready for a nap. We snapped a few photos before the fussing ensued!

We arrived at Mimi and Papa's house on Friday and settled in for several days of rest and relaxation - ha! Actually, Emma was quite happy to entertain everyone with her new set of tricks...almost rolling, spitting, "mm" and "wah," along with a bit of cooing.

For Christmas, Dugald and I decided to give Emma her first taste of cereal. The first round went fine, and she seemed quite keen for the spoon. However, after her first go of it, she has been otherwise unimpressed with cereal, bananas, or sweet potatoes. We are going to give it a couple of weeks and try again.

Christmas Eve brought our first holiday meal, as we met Katelen at the fire station for dinner. We visited for a bit and then headed home to put Emma to bed.

Emma gave us a nice little Christmas present on Christmas morning - as she slept until 8:30am -- what a treat! We fed her, dressed her up in her sweet Christmas outfit and headed downstairs for breakfast and presents. We made it through breakfast before the hives erupted.

Yes, hives! Due to a laundry malfunction, we had to wash her onesie in color remover to remove some misplaced red dye. Well, Emma was allergic to the color remover and broke out in hives! We quickly removed the onesie, gave her a bath, all the while she giggled and blew bubbles. It certainly made for an eventful Christmas!

After getting Emma settled back in, we set off to unwrap quite a number of gifts for Emma's first Christmas. Dolls, books, bib clips, a market basket, a furry possum, and much, much more. We all had quite a time!

Post-presents, we all had a bit of a rest before heading into Christmas dinner mode. Dugald cranked up the turkey fryer, Mimi started the dressing, sweet potato casserole, green beans, mashed potatoes, gravy, noodles, bread, and country ham. I set the table, snapped a few photos and stayed out of the way!

We are now headed back to the homestead before returning to work. This Christmas, like many more to come, was so enjoyable with our new addition.

Much love!

Family Visit

2007-12-15T06:01:00.000-08:00

We all had such a great visit with Grandma, Grandpa, and Grant! Our time was filled with bad driving, great food and a visit to see Vulcan's bum...and of course, lots of giggles and poopy diapers.

The first week was spent hanging out at our house, just catching up and trying to make Emma laugh. We then went to my parent's house in Dalton for Thanksgiving. It was great to have both of our families together celebrating our great blessings and remembering the fantastic life of my grandfather who passed away on Thanksgiving last year.

Dugald was in his element as he fired up the turkey fryer, while the ladies spent time in the kitchen making way to much food. We all enjoyed gathering around the big table together, and watching Emma giggle at the window.

On Friday, the ladies went shopping in downtown Dalton for what we thought would be a quiet trip...until we heard the fire engine. Katelen was at work! A sweet, elderly man had driven his car through the entrance of the dowtown bank and come to an abrupt stop in the lobby. He wasn't harmed, but the marble lobby was! It was really fun to see Katelen at work!

After our visit to Dalton, we came back to Birminghamfor what seemed like mere minutes, although it was another week. Ma and Pa spent some time shopping and visiting the Musuem of Art, while Dug and I went to work. We met up in the evenings for great food, great wine and great amounts of smiles.

Grant came in for the last two days of the visit, and we got to celebrate his birthday with caramel cupcakes and candles. The last day of the visit was spent looking at Vulcan's booty, eating barbeque (guys) and O'Carr's chicken salad (girls).
It was sad to see everyone go, but we had such a great visit. I am sure we will find a reason to see everyone again soon.

Since their trip to Alabama, they have cruised around the Caribbean and headed back to their respective homes except for Grandma and Grandpa, who are now visiting with Liss, Martin, Lou, Tim, Isabelle and new, little Henry in the UK.

2007-11-25T15:08:00.001-08:00

This past Sunday, our sweet Emma was baptized (christened) during the Sunday service. It was a great time of celebration as both sets of grandparents - that's right, both sets - watched on with tears and smiles.

Emma was baptized in quite a bit of history, a christening gown that has spanned four generations of Dugald's family. The gown, a two-piece garment, has an underlay slip made of parachute silk. It was so beautiful on our sweet girl.

It was a wonderful time for our friends and family to watch as we committed ourselves to raising Emma under the Lord's guidance and care. He has given us so many blessings for which we are eternally grateful.

Sweet Pea

2007-11-16T06:57:00.000-08:00

What parent can resist dressing up their little one in a costume? Well, we couldn't, so for Halloween our Emma was a pea in a pod. How cute is that!? She obliged us for about 15 minutes in a costume that was made for an artic winter storm...

Sweetness!

2007-11-03T07:19:00.000-07:00

There isn't too much new around here...lots of feeding, sleeping and pooping. What more could one ask for?

Here are some highlights of our sweetness!

Weekend Away

2007-10-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, the Hall trio and Mimi and PopPop (Kristen's parents) headed out for a weekend getaway to Maggie Valley, North Carolina. Close to Asheville, Maggie Valley is a quiet, little mountain town with great views and cool(er) mountain air.

After arriving in Maggie Valley on Friday night, we unloaded the car of its insane array of Emma's belongings - including our new Phil and Ted's stroller, grabbed a quick dinner and headed back for a nice, quiet evening. Saturday morning brought a much anticipated breakfast at Joey's Pancake House. After carbo-loading on pancakes and biscuits, we headed to the store for a few essentials (a bottle of wine) and then back to the condo for a fun-filled day of college football, wine on the porch, and napping.

Later in the afternoon, Mimi and Kristen did a little sight-seeing in a nearby town of Waynesville (so cute!), leaving the much-capable men to care for the little one. A couple of hours later, we walked to the clubhouse for a little dinner and called it a night.

Sunday brought the real reason for the trip - the Land Rover Driving Experience at the Biltmore Estate. The Driving Experience was a Christmas gift to the guys two years ago, and we finally got around to making it happen. The guys set out for a two-hour, off-road trek in a $70K Range Rover, while Mimi, Kristen and Emma headed to the winery for a little tour and a glass of champagne. The day ended with a quick bite to eat and a good night sleep.

We all had a great time. It was nice to get away for the weekend in some cool, mountain air. We also got to see Aunt Katelen for a little while in Dalton, which was a sweet treat....

Emma had so much fun that she has decided she needs a day of sleep to recover! Mommie agrees!

I love my new stroller! Red goes faster!

Do you like my hat? It's from our friends Wayne and Kay Pearce in New Zealand!

Is it just me, our am I cute?

Hanging out with Mimi - in my sweet sleeper from my Grandma and Grandpa - all the way from New Zealand!

Mom and Dad!

Just chillin'...

Solving the world's problems with my Mimi!

Mooooo...

2007-10-01T16:56:00.000-07:00

It's probably not a surprise to many of you, but Emma really likes cows! Here are a few pictures from her latest adventures.

Simplicity

2007-09-28T08:33:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the simple things in life are the most enjoyable. At least according to Emma!

Hanging with the Family

2007-09-13T05:52:00.000-07:00

Here are more pictures from Emma's first visit to Mimi and Pop Pop's house in Dalton. We were so happy that Auntie Jo was able to visit with us!

Just Chugging Along

2007-09-09T20:06:00.001-07:00

Things are just chugging along here at the Hall household. We are all well and enjoying our days with Emma. Her Auntie Jo came to visit last week from Vancouver, and we made our first trip to Mimi and Pop Pops's house in Georgia this past weekend.

Here are some pictures of our most recent days at home:

New Pictures

2007-08-20T08:35:00.001-07:00

Things are going well at the Hall household! Emma is sleeping and eating well, and we are all feeling good. Here are a few of our latest pictures. Enjoy!

First Week at Home

2007-08-08T16:23:00.000-07:00

Well, things are going well with the wee bit. Dugald and I are enjoying getting to know Emma and her personality. We have made a few trips here and there, but otherwise are keeping a low profile in our pajamas.

We celebrated her first week birthday with a candle and homemade peach crumble.

Welcome Home Emma!

2007-08-03T18:07:00.002-07:00

The recovery time is over (as determined by the insurance companies) and as much fun as it was in hospital with all of the fantastic staff, it is time to bring Emma home.

All bundled up and ready to go!

The proud (and tired) parents with their little peanut.

Strapped in the car & ready to go home and see her bedroom.

At home in the beautiful dress her Grandmother bought for her in Twizel (where?).

Wrapped up snug as a bug in a rug! Ok, so it is a shawl that her Grandmother knitted for her, but she loves it!

Kristen and Emma enjoying quiet time bonding at home.

Asleep in my own bed at last!! All this room to grow into is fantastic!!

3 Days of Recovery

2007-08-03T17:24:00.000-07:00

Three days in hospital... Sounds like a long time... Not when you have just had your first baby and have plenty of visitors!! Emma is already becoming a little socialite. She had plenty of visitors while in hospital and made some new friends..

Kristen and Emma enjoying a little cuddle

Both of us are tired, but only one of us gets to sleep!

Emma enjoying spending time with one of her grandfathers (she is looking forward to meeting the other in November)

Emma meets Mimi

Help!! I'm being eaten by a green pacman... Wait a minute... this is just a green boppy, but it's still trying to eat me!!

Emma meets Ellabee and Anne Bailey

The New Arrival

2007-07-31T22:44:00.000-07:00

Wellllll....... The big day finally arrived!! Our little baby was born!! After several hours of labor by Kristen, we heard the news that we didn't really want to hear - C-Section. The little peanut was a little too big to make it out by conventional means, so we had to have surgical assistance. After a short procedure we had our cute-as-a-button little girl, all 7 lbs 12 oz, 19 1/2 inches of her. She was "born" at 8:30pm CDT July 31, 2007. Both mother and daughter are doing well. Dad - well he is getting by the best he can.

This just in: we have finally made a decision on her name. Our little bundle of joy is Emma Elizabeth Hall. Welcome to the world little one!

Cooking with Gas

2007-07-23T12:29:00.000-07:00

It's official, folks. We are now cooking with gas. The range was installed today, and tonight we will be cooking our first meal in our new kitchen! Just in time - as we will be meeting our new little one any day now!

The Countertops are Here!

2007-07-13T13:00:00.000-07:00

After some frighteningly loud installation, the countertops have been laid to rest...on our new cabinets! The sink has been installed, along with the faucet...it actually looks like a kitchen! All of the wiring is complete, and the plumber is coming on Monday to hook up the sink and dishwasher.

On Tuesday, the stove and hood will be installed, and the Halls might be cooking their first meal on a real stove in about 2 months!

The Cabinets are Installed!

2007-07-02T16:21:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it! Our kitchen is actually starting to look like a kitchen!

The cabinets are in, the hardware is finished and the recessed and pendant lights are burning brightly. The countertops are set for installation on Friday, July 13th, with the appliances installed on the following Tuesday. Oh, happy day!

The Bebe's Room

2007-06-26T17:22:00.001-07:00

So, this weekend was quite productive!

The baby's room went from lavender to CUTE!

We still have work to do, but we are getting there!

Getting Closer!

2007-06-26T16:42:00.000-07:00

So, the walls are finished, and the cabinets are here! We are still waiting for the installation of the cabinets and appliances, but we are getting close!

Here's a sneak preview:

Finished walls!

Lots of boxes!

Kitchen cabinets!