John, Elissa, and Addison Layne

Happy Birthday Zsa!

2010-05-25T19:03:00.000-07:00

I love to look at how much Addi Layne has grown in one year. It will blow your mind!
Here she is helping Zsa Zsa celebrate her birthday in 2009 and 2010. By the way....this was from April...slowly but surely I WILL catch up!
Hugs and Kisses!

Our First Trip to Marbles...

2010-05-25T18:57:00.000-07:00

So we have heard about Marbles museum for kids by all of our friends. We decided to check it out the other day..we really thought Addi Layne was still too young for it, but would give it a shot. We were WRONG! I do not know who had more fun! We had a great time. Such a cool place...we will be going back!

2010-05-23T14:54:00.000-07:00

2010-05-23T14:44:00.000-07:00

How did this happen???

2010-05-23T14:31:00.000-07:00

WHOA! How in the world did I get SO behind...well it might be chasing after a now 16 month old fire ball!!! Addi Layne is a true joy! She is into everything and is daily coming up with a new word to add to her vocabulary. This morning she told me she wanted to color as she brought me her crayons (that I thought I had hidden). She is walking...or more like running everywhere.
We are really looking forward to the summer.
So....I really do not know where to start to catch up...so I will just add pictures till I feel like we are there! Love and Hugs to all!

2010-03-27T14:36:00.000-07:00

January....Happy 1st Birthday our sweet Angel Addison Layne! We love you more than you will ever know. God has truly blessed us with a wonderful Child!

Hello!

2010-03-25T17:52:00.000-07:00

Where do I even begin...I know I am a TOTAL slacker and have not kept up with our blog at all! I will do my best to catch you up...and make an effort to keep it that way!
January was a very exciting month for us..Addi Layne turned 1 on the 19th. She was slowly becoming more and more active, but not quite walking. Her appetite increased and she was really enjoying eating most anything that Mommy and Daddy eat.
February....a little bit of a blurr..I am sorry.
March...well we are up and running! Yes, Addison started to walk at 13 months. She moved up to a new class in school, so the peer pressure was a killer. We are no longer in the infant class...but the todler world. Addison now goes to Art, Gym, Music..and needless to say she is exhausted when she comes home. The funiest thing is that she sleeps in a "cot" at school. They say she does great. It is so hard for me to believe that she stays on it and doesn't flip around like a fish. I am so proud of her. She has adjusted so well.
We now have a little voice recorder that walks around behind us...she says shoes, socks, ball, Mommy, Daddy, Duck, Biscuit (I know..a true southern Baby!). We are having so much fun with her. I will post pictures tommorow. Hope that you all are well!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-06T13:27:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year to all! We pray that all will be blessed and come to know God's Love over the next year!! I apologize for not being so good about keeping up on the blog over the past month...we all know how the holidays are!! ( I know...excuses, excuses!)

Over the past month we have had some trials. An old friend of ours, was killed in a car accident.

His name is Flip Kissinger. He was a Raleigh Fireman with John. Many of you may remember him and his Wife, Jill. They were in our wedding. Hannah was 11 months old when we got married. She is now 9 and Abbie, 3. We have really had to do some soul searching in dealing with this and realizing that no matter what we think....God's plan is perfect. Jill is doing amazingly well. She has turned 100% total faith to the Lord, a true example for us all. John and I both say it has made us focus on the important things in life....God and Family. Who cares if the house is not clean, dishes are done, or car is clean. We have mad a vow to be bold for the Lord!

John's Mom fell and broke her leg 2 weeks before Christmas. She came through surgery great and was able to come home Christmas eve, a Blessing!! She is doing amazingly well considering that she can't put any weight on that leg for several more weeks. We are proud of her for being such a trooper!

Addi Layne had a WONDERFUL First CHRISTmas! It was so much fun! She had a blast opening her gifts. She got a stroller walker from Santa. She can be found daily taking Elmo for a ride around the house. She cackels the whole time...truly too cute! (As we say to ourselves the entire time....this is what it is all about!)

We have been so blessed in 2009. Addison Layne entered our lives and it will always have a special place in our hearts.

Flip..thank you for all you did for those around you, thank you for the memories! We will do our best to help Jill with your two Angels here on earth, as we are sure you are watching from above!

Lots of Love to you all! We hope to see you soon.

Thanksgiving...

2009-12-09T12:04:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving this year took on a whole new meaning.... We will let the pictures do the talking....all we can say is we are SO Blessed

Continued Pictures...

2009-12-09T11:41:00.000-08:00

These are pictures that I found that I wanted to share from Addi Layne's Dedication. What a special Day! She loves to be around her family...somehow though she has a facination with her little Cousin Cole's Head. Soon he will be coming after her!

A Blessed Sunday

2009-11-19T11:50:00.000-08:00

Sundays are always wonderful..but this Sunday was especially blessed! We had Addison Layne's dedication at Church surrounded by the Best Family and Friends one could dream of. The presence of the Lord was felt! Many have asked me what does Baby Dedication mean... It means that John and I are Dedicating ourselves to raise Addi Layne in a Christian Home with our eyes focused on the Lord. It also signifies that those around us will pray for Addison's Christian walk and her relationship with the Lord in hopes that one day She will accept him as her Lord and Savior.

Hello!

2009-11-19T11:29:00.000-08:00

Where do I begin...I know that I have been slack...OK REALLY slack on keeping up with the blog over the past month! My deepest apologies to all. We are all doing great. John and I sit back every night in amazement. We knew that time would go by fast and she would grow...but it has flown by!! Today is Addison Layne's 10 Month Birthday! Gracious! Where has my peanut of a girl gone???? At her 9 month check up she was 18 lbs. 9 oz. (40%). She is 60% in height. In other Another words...growing like a weed!!!!

Addi Layne is well.....ACTIVE!! She is now crawling, babbling and possibly the cutest Munchkin you ever did see...(not that her Mommy and Daddy are Biased at all)! She has decided that she no longer wants "Baby Food". She prefers Mommy and Daddy food.

This past weekend is the first time she started to say Ma Ma Ma! Talk about warming your heart. No matter how bad my day is, coming home to hear that precious voice call me.....words can not express!

I will post a few pictures and hope that this will catch us up. I promise to do better! We are so excited to be spending the Holidays with Addi Layne. Love to all!!

Getting ready for Halloween..

2009-10-14T12:43:00.000-07:00

Addison's Halloween costume came in the mail the other day. We could not wait to try it on her.

Addison Layne hanging out with Uncle Bubby, Aunt Catron and Cousin Cole Wyatt

2009-10-13T09:37:00.000-07:00

The other day Wyatt and Catron did us a huge favor by picking up Addi Layne from school. She loves hanging out with them! Addi Layne had a blast! We can't wait till Addi and Cole are hanging out together playing in the floor. Best Buddies for sure!

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2009-10-13T09:34:00.000-07:00

Out for Dinner to celebrate John's 34th Birthday!

The Blessing of a Healthy Child..

2009-09-22T17:29:00.001-07:00

So many times I sit back and realize how much I take for granted. Addison Layne has been sick for the past 5 weeks with a cold. Last night she was up most of the night. I stayed out of work and took her to the Pediatrician. We are now on our 2nd round of antibiotics. It is so hard to sit back and watch your little one be uncomfortable. She has 5 teeth coming in and I am sure they are not helping the situation. We are asking for prayers that our little Angel will feel like herself again!

Summer Fun!

2009-09-22T08:55:00.000-07:00

Hello....

2009-09-22T08:44:00.000-07:00

Yes, we are still here! It has been a bit of a crazy month. Addison starting school, getting sick, we went on vacation... I know excuses, excuses! I promise to do better. Addi Layne turned 8 months on Saturday. Time is going by way tooo fast! I know people tell you this when a child is born but it is so true!

Addison is so interactive. She loves school and her little friends. Her Teachers are wonderful! She is starting to try and scoot around. Babbling away.. we even think we heard her say Da Da Da the other day. You can imagine what John was like after hearing this. I will add more pictures soon of our recent trip to the Beach. Love you All!

All is well....

2009-08-30T17:25:00.000-07:00

It is Sunday evening. John is at work. We miss him dearly when he is away from home on Sundays. There is nothing any better than going to Church as a family.
Today in Sunday school we discussed the Beatitudes. Being meek, dying to self and avoiding being Worldly. I was searching the Internet this evening and came across a website that has daily encouragement for mothers. God is really speaking to me....It is encouraging Mothers to pray for a meek spirit in their Children and praying for them to be Christ like. So true....and AMAZING!

Addison Layne

2009-08-24T13:33:00.000-07:00

Addison Layne is such a happy girl!

She loves to play and each day brightens our lives beyond belief!

Sorry the video is not the clearest in the world.

Our first week of "School"...

2009-08-23T13:16:00.000-07:00

Well... Addison did great! Mommy did well also! It is amazing to me how adaptable children are. Addison went in her class like she had been there since day one. She is so observant of all the children around her. Lots of new toys to play with. We learned that she loves to bounce in the jumper. Her teachers are wonderful! They make me so at ease with everything and assure me that she will fit in wonderfully. I was really nervous about her naps at school. She has been napping but only 30 minutes. Friday we did one hour!!! YEAH!!!! Wanda keeps telling me no worries...she will get there. They are sooo good!!

However, Saturday morning we woke up with our first COLD! I knew that is would come...just not after only one week. Today is Sunday, John and I are both at home. It has been nice to just cater to her needs today!
Have a wonderful week!

Addi Layne Playing

2009-08-18T18:15:00.000-07:00

It is so amazing how one day, all of a sudden they are so active and into everything! Here is Addi playing in the floor with her toys. She can occupy herself laughing and talking. It really is cute... Watch...

Good Morning!

2009-08-17T06:25:00.001-07:00

What a beautiful morning! I have been busy getting things packed up for Addison's first day at "School". Mommy has a really...really tough time calling it daycare... so you will hear me refer to it as school. We got up early this morning to go, but there is a lot to take with us on our first day.....so as I was doing this our little munchkin got really sleepy! I have decided to let her take her AM nap and then we will be on our way! We are excited about her teachers! They are awesome with the children. Mommy is just having a tough time letting go. I know that this is the best for Addi Layne...but it is still tough! We will be going on a part time basis. She will usually go 2 days a week. Please keep us in your prayers as we go through this process. Thank you!

Welcome Cole Wyatt Horton...

2009-08-13T19:51:00.000-07:00

We would like to welcome Addi Layne's newest cousin to the world! We are so excited. Cole Wyatt Horton came into the world today weighing 8lbs. 6oz.. He is a cutie!
Catron, Baby and Daddy are doing great.

2009-08-10T11:14:00.000-07:00

Our Happy Girl

God is Good!

2009-08-08T20:07:00.000-07:00

Today I spent the day with Addi Layne. John was at work. We are so blessed with a wonderful little Girl! She laughs, plays and lights up our lives beyond what we could have ever imagined. She is such a blessing from God.

She will start "School" in a week. Please keep us all in your prayers as this will be a big adjustment for us all!
We are expecting a lot of excitement in our house this week. Our Baby Boy Horton should be making an appearance. If he does not come on his own by Wednesday...he is going to get eviction papers and should make an appearance Thursday!! Yeah! Catron will be induced Wednesday night. Please keep Catron and Wyatt in your prayers. We can't wait to meet our little Cousin! It is so hard for me to believe that my Little Brother will be a Daddy. He will be great!

A wonderful Day!

2009-07-27T13:12:00.000-07:00

Wow, today has been great. As usual I headed to the Hospital early this AM. My case was done around 11 Am. I went to lunch and had no more cases to follow. I was able to leave work around 1:30 pm! This was such a treat! I came home, fed my little one lunch. John and I laid down with her for a nap. I am now doing laundry and catching up on my blog as she sleeps! Life is Good. I could do this everyday!
I had to try out this new background. People amaze me with their awesome blogspots! I am still working on adding music.....
Addi is my lil lady bug...it was too perfect!

Addison Layne is almost sitting...

2009-07-27T12:47:00.000-07:00

Pops and Zsa Zsa gave Addi this little hat last week. The Lady that makes them does so for the

Leukemia Society. John says she is our "Lil Melon Head".

6 Months Old!

2009-07-27T12:43:00.000-07:00

Addison Layne is 6 months old! Last week we went to the Pediatrician...She is 15 lbs. 14 oz. and 27 inches long! She is 50 % in weight and 60% in height! Addi wanted to show her her newest thing to you....her first 2 teeth! She is very proud....

2009-07-21T11:04:00.000-07:00

I came down the stairs the other night to find Addison and John working hard on the computer....it was too cute!

Just found something interesting

2009-07-21T10:54:00.000-07:00

My Mom and Dad sent over some pictures the other night of Me as a child... found it pretty interesting to compare my Baby pictures to Addison Layne... I will scan in some of John's pictures tonight!

Our Wild Hair Child...

2009-07-13T12:36:00.000-07:00

Addison loves to take her naps in her swing... Mommy is really trying to break this habit before we start school in August. She does great sleeping in her crib at night... and sleeps All night

but our naps are a different story. This picture was right after she had gotten up...

We might have a swimmer on our hands...

2009-07-13T12:26:00.000-07:00

Addison loves the WATER!!!! YEAH!! Mommy could not be happier! She gets in the water and has a great time. She even goes under the water with no tears!! That is my girl... Swimming by 2 years old....LOL!!!

Our New Favorite ....

2009-07-13T12:11:00.000-07:00

Addison loves her "Jumping John". John refers to it as her "Jumping Daddy". She just giggles and laughs in it. Her little legs are not long enough to get the bouncing down quite yet. Dimples seems to love to walk by her and rub against her when she is it. I love it because she can be in the kitchen with me while I fix supper!! I think it should be one of the devices that is required to come with a Baby...

July 4th..

2009-07-13T12:00:00.000-07:00

We hope everyone had a great July 4th... sorry we are a little late getting these pictures up! We had a great holiday. We spent the morning with our friends Amanda and Josh Cruz. Later in the afternoon we took Addi Layne for a swim at our pool. The picture is of her hanging out in her float waiting (patientely) for Mommy and Daddy to get ready. Later in the afternoon we headed over to John's Captains house for a great cookout!

Addison couldn't make it to see the Fireworks! She was asleep by 8pm! John and I sat on the front porch and enjoyed our neighbor's show! My how an Angel changes your life!! We would never go back!

Flower Power....

2009-06-23T07:14:00.000-07:00

I could not help myself! I had to share these pictures of Addi and her bright pink flower. John says she will get me one day for these but right now I think they are very cute! I know I should enjoy these headbands and bows for one day I am sure she will tell me "NO"!!

Happy Father's Day!!

2009-06-23T07:02:00.000-07:00

John and Addison Layne spent their first Father's Day together this past Sunday. We had the pleasure of going to a shower for Wyatt and Catron. It was really cute because I asked John what he wanted to do and he said anything as long as he was with "His Girl"! I am very blessed to have not only an incredible Husband but a wonderful Father for my Baby Girl!!

A week at the Beach

2009-06-21T19:15:00.000-07:00

We just got home from a great week at the Beach.

It was a learning experience with a 5 month old! John and I have learned how important it is to keep a little one on a schedule. This was a challenge for us on vacation!

Addison loved the water and did great in the pool. She was not a huge fan of the beach. We think the wind bothered her.

Addison Playing..

2009-06-21T19:05:00.000-07:00

Addison Layne loves her exersaucer. Her new toy to put in her mouth is her big toe!

Walking for Zsa Zsa...

2009-06-21T18:56:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday Addison Layne participated in her first Walk for the Cure! We had a great time. Her "Aunt Nina" joined us. We had a really nice time as we walked in honor of Zsa Zsa, remembering the battles that she has had with cancer! Love you Zsa Zsa!!!

2009-06-04T12:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we took Addison to get her pictures taken. Talk about a little Ham!! She did great. These are two of my very favorites. She has gotten good at rolling over from her stomach to her back. Never a big fan of laying on her stomach for "Tummy Time". She kept rolling over as we tried to get her pictures and thought it was the funniest thing ever.

Happy Birthday Pops!

2009-05-30T19:39:00.000-07:00

The top picture is from 1 year ago on Pops Birthday..He had just found out he was going to be a Poppy! This past Friday Addison had the pleasure of celebrating it with him! It is amazing how time flys! Happy Birthday Poppy! We love you!

4 Month Check Up!

2009-05-30T19:32:00.000-07:00

This week we took Addison to have her 4 month check up.. and dreaded shots! UGH!!
She is getting so big. She is 13lbs 12 oz. 25 1/2 inches long! She is 75% in height and 50% in weight. We are getting the feeling she is going to be a tall girl (John says we are volleyball bound). She really did well with her shots. John and I on the other hand .. we had a tough time.

Another Play Date...

2009-05-30T17:44:00.000-07:00

The other night John and I went over to Candace and Jacob's Home for Dinner. It was great to get out and be with very dear friends. It is so amazing, Candace and I went to preschool together. We got back in touch during High School and were College Room Mates. We both went through Nursing School and Graduated in 1999. Lilly Anna Chitsaz was born December 22, making her only 1 month older than Addi! I only pray that Addison Layne and Lilly will be blessed with a true friendship like Candace and I have!

4 Months old!!

2009-05-18T16:26:00.000-07:00

Time is flying!! it is so hard to believe Addi is 4 months old. She is changing daily. She is such a joy!

Happy Birthday Zsa Zsa!!

2009-05-18T16:15:00.000-07:00

We had such a good time at Zsa Zsa's Birthday cookout. Addison Layne hung out with her Daddy and helped grilling ribs. We love you Zsa Zsa! Happy Birthday!

Spending time with Friends

2009-05-18T16:08:00.001-07:00

These are more pictures from the beach. We had such a good time with Heather, David, and Leah. It is amazing to sit back and think about how long we have been friends. It is hard to believe that her Baby Girl is holding my Baby Girl!

Visiting John at Work

2009-05-05T15:54:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it gets very hard to be away from John for 24 hours. Addison and I love to visit him while at work.

Our weekend..

2009-04-21T07:50:00.000-07:00

We had such a nice weekend at the Beach.

Easter Dinner

2009-04-17T20:00:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of Addison with Family at Easter dinner.

Play Date!

2009-04-17T19:48:00.000-07:00

This past week, I watched Shona's little man Ryan for a little while. It was too cute to see the two of them checking each other out.

Daddy and Addi

2009-04-17T19:46:00.000-07:00

John is so wonderful with Addison. I came upstairs to find them on the floor reading. You got it ..Curious George and the Fire Engines!

Easter...

2009-04-17T19:14:00.000-07:00

It was so much fun to take Addison Layne to church on her first Easter. She was great all through Church.

Mommy is back at work!

2009-04-17T19:11:00.001-07:00

April 6th was my first day back at work. It was hard to leave my precious angel. Zsa Zsa has made it so much easier by watching Addison Layne on the days that John and I are both at work. The best part of my day is coming home to her little smile!

My how she has grown..

2009-03-28T16:00:00.000-07:00

We were looking at pictures and comparing how Addi is changing. The first picture was taken when she was one week old. The second picture was taken this week.

Addison modeling....

2009-03-28T15:55:00.000-07:00

Our Family Friend Kathy knitted Addison a beautiful hat. We had fun trying it on!

This week...

2009-03-27T16:44:00.000-07:00

Addison went to the Doctor for her 2 month check up. She is growing like a weed. She now weighs 10 lbs. 15 oz. She is 22.5 inches long. She is going to be a tall girl! She got 2 shots this visit, it is sooo hard to see her get them.

2009-03-19T20:24:00.000-07:00

Just having fun taking pictures of our little Angel!

Going to Church......

2009-03-19T20:11:00.001-07:00

Happy St.Patricks Day

2009-03-19T19:55:00.000-07:00

Addison Layne on her first St.Patricks Day!

Addison Layne is 2 Months Old!!

2009-03-19T19:45:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that Addison Layne is 2 months old! My how time flys! She is such a joy. Everyday we thank and praise God for Her.

Addi and Dimples

2009-03-19T08:44:00.000-07:00

Dimples and Addison are becoming Buddies. Dimples is always in the room that Addi is in. She is also very quick to come get us when her little Sister is crying.

Our Weekend

2009-03-09T14:21:00.001-07:00

It was such a beautiful weekend. We stayed out as much as possible to enjoy the weather. Addison Layne loves to ride in the car. She enjoyed her visit with her Nana. She also loved being held by her Cousin Ashley. Sunday Addi went to Church for the very first time. I had to brave taking her by myself because John was working. I learned that I need alot more time to get ready than I use to. It was so good to be back at Church! She did really well.

Addison Layne at the Hurricane's Game

2009-03-09T14:12:00.000-07:00

Friday night we had the pleasure of taking Addi to her first Hockey game. We had a blast with our neighbors Lynn, Jeremy, Zsa Zsa, Pops, Wyatt and Catron. Addi was able to sleep through all the noise.

Addison's Cousin will be....

2009-03-05T10:07:00.001-08:00

A BOY!! We are so excited. Wyatt and Catron found out yesterday that they will be having a BABY BOY in August.
When Wyatt called to tell me, he said that Addi would have a Boy cousin to take care of her. It was really sweet. It will be so neat because they will be so close in age, only 7 months apart!!

Bath Time

2009-03-03T07:34:00.000-08:00

Addison has just gotten so that she loves Bath Time. She is starting to smile and giggle at us while she gets a bath. I had to share these pictures.

Uncle Bubby and Aunt Catron

2009-03-03T07:29:00.000-08:00

Addie loves to hang out with her Uncle Bubby (Wyatt) and Aunt Catron. We are excited to say that Addie will have a Cousin to play with in August. We find out tommorow if it is a Boy or Girl! Addie is helping Wyatt with OJT (On The Job Training) to help get ready for Baby Crumb!

Addison Layne's 2nd Snow!

2009-03-03T07:09:00.001-08:00

Monday was Beautiful! Addison enjoyed her 2nd Snow Day in 6 short weeks. We were in the Hospital with the last snow, so it was fun to get out enjoy it this time! I told John when we were Pregnant, this Child would be a Snow Angel-- and she is!!

Our 1 Month Check Up...

2009-03-02T12:53:00.001-08:00

Addison Layne went to the Doctor for her 1 month check up...and boy is she growing...
She now weighs 9lbs. 2oz. She is 21 1/2 inches long. She did have to get one shot (I think it was harder on me than for her). On most nights she only gets up once and is letting John and I sleep for longer intervals. Our little Angel is growing so fast!

Addison at her first NCSU Game

2009-02-16T19:25:00.000-08:00

GO PACK!!!

Valentines Day

2009-02-16T18:31:00.000-08:00

We hope everyone had a great Valentines Day! Addison Layne celebrated her First Valentines Day! Her Daddy brought Mommy flowers and Addison her first Valentine gift home with him when he came home from work that morning.

Happy Wednesday!

2009-02-11T14:28:00.001-08:00

Today is our second day flying solo while John is at work. We have done very well. We may have to break down and visit Daddy tonight. I took some pictures of Addison this morning in her room while she was sleeping. I have had several people mention they have not seen her room yet and would like to..so here it is.

Good Morning

2009-02-07T06:05:00.000-08:00

It is Saturday Morning, I am sitting on the couch with Addison in my lap. We are so proud of her! Last night we moved her upstairs to her room to sleep in the crib. She really likes her room. She slept so well, getting up only one time. We are trying to start to transition her because Daddy is going back to work on Monday. It has been so nice with him at home. Addison is blessed with one awesome Dad who loves her. It is so obvious in the way he cares for her. We will miss him greatly while he is at work...I predict many evening visits to the Fire Station.

Addison would like to introduce...

2009-02-03T13:39:00.000-08:00

Nana,Zsa Zsa, and Pops.

New Pictures of Addison Layne...

2009-02-03T13:09:00.000-08:00

Doctors Appt.

2009-01-30T12:49:00.000-08:00

We just got home from the Doctors Office. Addison Layne is doing so well. She weighed 7lbs. 3.5oz. We are so proud of her. I knew the little Monkey was a eater! We will just be hanging out this weekend as Addie celebrates her first Super Bowl! Hope you all have a great weekend, we will update pictures soon. She is GROWING!!!

Good Morning!

2009-01-29T07:48:00.000-08:00

It is Thursday and last night we were able to SLEEP!! We are so proud of Addie! She slept from 10PM to 3 AM without waking up. Mommy and Daddy feel like new people. We are getting there. Addison is such a blessing in our lives. Tommorow we go to the Doctors to check on her weight.
We are anxious to take her out and about but we have had several friends and their Newborns back in the Hospital due to RSV. This is the unfortunate part of having a little Snow Angel in January. We are going to be hovering around the house for a while due to this scare. We are also asking everyone who comes to visit us be in the best health possible with no sniffles or signs of a cold. It is amazing how this turns life threatning so quick for a little one. Our prayers are with Candace, Jacob, and little Lilly Chitsaz as they battle this currently at WakeMed. Our prayers are with you! We love you!

Some of Addison's new Friends...

2009-01-25T14:00:00.001-08:00

Belated pictures

2009-01-25T13:44:00.000-08:00

We wanted to share pictures of Addison Layne's last day in the hospital, her ride home and her first day at home. She loves to ride in the car!

Saturday...

2009-01-25T09:15:00.000-08:00

Addison had a great first Saturday at Home. Aunt Catron came over and kept Addi long enough for Mommy and Daddy to run a few errands. Aunt Lois, Uncle Ervin, Cousins Monica and Madelyn Lois came over for a visit. Addi loves her family! She also tried out her new swing and we can already tell it is going to be a life saver! Our nights are getting a little easier as she only gets up 1-2 times and is easily settled back to sleep. We feel very blessed to have such a wonderful family that views our new little one as a blessing as much as we do! God is awesome!

Hello!

2009-01-23T12:46:00.001-08:00

Today marks our second day at home. We went to Addison's first Doctors appt. She is doing very well. She had gained 2 oz. since leaving the Hospital which makes her now 6lbs. 8oz. We are very proud of her. She is not so jaundice and her "pumpkin" appearance is going away. John and I have been undergoing some major adjustment with Addison having her nights and days mixed up..we will be glad when we get this straight! We will post updated pictures soon. It is amazing how her looks change daily!

Addie's First Snow

2009-01-20T19:34:00.000-08:00

Here we are, our first full day as a new family. Addie's was a little cranky last night, I think she was hungry. Elissa and I are ready to get home and to get things in order for our new lifestyle. Addie's had a great day watching the snow from her window here at the hospital. Elissa told me that this child was going to bring us snow, of course I didnt believe her. But, sure enough, our snow angel gave 6" of that powder that causes the kid in us all to come out. We can't express into words the graditude we have for the staff the has taken care us of during this experience. The doctors and the nurses that have taken care of Elissa and Addison have been so wonderful and sincere. Our next post will be from the comfort of our living room, God willing.

Hey Guys!!

2009-01-19T11:15:00.001-08:00

Elissa here.... I wanted to thank everyone for their prayers over the past 24 hours. God is so awesome as we felt such love and support. John, Addie and myself are doing great.. just a little sleepy. Last night was a little long but fast at the same time. It is amazing to look at this little blessing that God as afforded us.
Addison is a very laid back baby which we hope will last. She is feeding very well and loves to lay on her Daddy's chest. We hope to see you all very soon.

Here's what new.....

2009-01-19T09:32:00.000-08:00

Mom and newborn are doing great. Dad on other hand is still trying to learn how to hold Addie while holding her head too. A milestone was reached today, I have changed my first diaper. Yes, I know its the first of many. Thank you goes to everyone for keeping us on your minds and in your prayers. I believe that it because of the prayers that we had a short, but safe delivery. Mom and I are going to try to catch up on some rest (hahahahahaha). Yes, to I know, no rest is just the start. We'll update shortly.

She is here and is beautiful...

2009-01-19T06:44:00.000-08:00

It gives us great joy to introduce to the world Miss Addison Layne Sturchio. Miss Sturchio came into this world at 630am. Addie's mom did wonderful. We were surprised at how fast things began to move. Right now Addie and mom are resting well. Addie weighted 6lbs 11oz, and is 21 inches long. Thank all of guys for your thoughts and prayers for us during this trying, but wonderful time. I cant wait for all of you to meet her. Sorry for the delay on the updates, but things started happening real fast.....Our Rm is 4B08, at WMC.

10cm

2009-01-19T02:47:00.000-08:00

It's ten til six in the morning. The nurse is checking Elissa now and we are going to have a baby. The nurse just comfirmed that Elissa is about 10 min. from pushing. We are plus 1 staion. I hope the next blog is with pictures of Sprout. Mom is feeling alot of pressure, but doing fine.....

1:30 am

2009-01-18T22:17:00.000-08:00

Elissa has done a great job. Mom is at 3-4cm, 75%. This great, here comes some help with the pain. Oh, the felt hair when she was checking the progression. More soon...

Its 11:30, have you seen our newborn?

2009-01-18T20:31:00.000-08:00

Well, here the latest. Sprout has finally kicked a hole in its swimming pool, and all of the water has run out. In other words, Elissa's water has broken. The unfortunate thing is that Sprout could not wait to get out before he/she went #2. So, sounds like when Sprout is born, we are going to have a few more people in the room than we were expecting. Elissa is still getting some very strong contractions, but their frequency is all over the place. She has a sleeping pill on board to help her rest. She is thankful for the responses. She said earlier that it was like everyone was here. Until the next update....JDS out.

We are here...... and waiting.

2009-01-18T18:15:00.000-08:00

We have arrived at Wake and are under way. I just looked out of the window and saw a flock of storks that was flying over head. Elissa is doing fine and says that the "cramps" are coming and going. The pain level is all over the place. The doctor just came in to perform a procedure that should get things moving. IV is being placed as we speak. She is in great spirits and cant wait to be a mom.....

We have a Game Plan!!

2009-01-16T10:54:00.000-08:00

We just got home from the Doctor's office...My BP remains up so the time has come for Baby Sprout to be born. The game plan is that we will be admitted Sunday night for them to assist me in dilating. We will be put on Pitocin Monday AM at 6 and pray for a healthy blessing on Monday. Our only hitch right now is that the Hospital is predicted to be very full and there is a chance that we could be bumped due to them not having a bed. We are asking for everyone's prayers that does not happen and we will be able to go in Sunday night. We will keep you updated.....

How we will stay in touch..

2009-01-13T19:28:00.000-08:00

When the big day happens...we will send out emails and text messages to let everyone know that we are on our way to meeting Baby Sprout. We will take our computer with us and blog step by step what is going on. Please follow with us in this joyous experience! (Thanks Jacob and Candace for this Great idea!)

Update...

2009-01-13T19:17:00.000-08:00

Well..We are just waiting for Baby Sprout to make a move. We went to the Doctor on Monday, I am 75% effaced but not dilated. This Baby is very high and not wanting to head South. My blood pressure continues to stay high so we will go back on Friday for another check. We are praying that things will have changed and my blood pressure will stay down until this Baby is ready to be born. I am hanging out at home and dreaming of what this little one will look like. John and I are so excited!Thank you all for your prayers!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T05:42:00.000-08:00

We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas. It is amazing to look back at how God has blessed our lives over the past year. He is so amazing! I hope that everyone has the time to sit back and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas over the next few days. It has been a realization for me being pregnant during this sacred time what Mary went through and the sacrifices that were made for us all.
We will be spending Christmas Eve over at Sybil's House and Christmas Morning at my parents. God has blessed us with having our families so close by. Everyone traveling-please be careful!!
I will stop taking the medicine to prevent contractions tonight---so we will see what happens! Who knows, we might have a New Years Baby! God Bless you all! MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Thank you for your Prayers!

2008-12-22T20:40:00.000-08:00

John and I would like to take the time to thank everyone for their prayers over the past week. I have stopped contracting with the medicine Nifedipine and seem to be holding on with very little dilation. I am out of work and catching up on some R&R. Sprout is doing well. We will stop the medicine on Christmas day, so we will see what happens! We wish everyone a blessed Christmas!

An Update...

2008-12-13T09:31:00.000-08:00

We are asking for everyone's prayers. Thursday night I woke up very uncomfortable. We went to the doctor that morning and I was having very regular contractions every 2-3 minutes. I was sent home on strict bedrest and on medicine in hope of stopping the contractions.The medicine has helped but has by no means stopped the contractions. We will go back to the Doctor on Monday AM. We are a little over 34 weeks pregnant. They feel that baby Sprout would be fine, but we would really prefer to get to 35 weeks (next Thursday)! Who knew that Sprout would be making an appearance as a Christmas Blessing??? We will keep you updated...but please keep us in your prayers.

Our New Little Blessing

2008-12-03T10:45:00.000-08:00

It has taken us a while to get these uploaded but here are our first glimpse of our new little Angel!

Shower at Connie's House

2008-12-03T10:21:00.000-08:00

Sunday November 23 my wonderful Cousins Connie, Monica, Diane and Aunt Lois gave us a beautiful shower! It was a lovely afternoon. I had lots of help from 2 little angels. Cousin Madelyn Lois and my niece Ashley.

Maggiano Dinner

2008-12-03T10:14:00.000-08:00

The girls from Anesthesia School gave my friend Shona and I a shower at Maggiano's. It was great! John enjoyed the food....alot!!!

Side Shot!

2008-12-03T10:12:00.000-08:00

I have not been the best with the pictures.. Sorry guys this is me and Baby Sprout at 30 weeks. We are growing!!

Our First Shower

2008-12-03T09:56:00.000-08:00

Our First Shower was at the Home of Sharon and William Johnson. It was wonderful! Sharon and Heather did such a nice job. Here is little Leah. She loved that high chair that Sharon and Heather worked so hard on making for us!