The Happenings of the Herdes Household!

ENT Update

2010-03-02T07:13:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was the big day at the ENT ( Ears, Nose, Throat Doc). I must say I was pleasantly surprised at how well Drake! No Tears! I was very excited for this! And Avery also got to go on the little road trip, she did great as always!

We found out he does have fluid behind his ears, Surprise Surprise! He went off antibiotics 3 days ago, and already had another ear infection yesterday! Geesh! So this doctor suggested more antibiotics for another 2 weeks. Which I'm not sure how this will go, we have been on meds for almost 4 months now, as soon as he goes off of them his ear infections return with in the week. We are going to another ENT, Michael Smith, on Wed for a second opinion.

Wish us all luck!!!

Loaded w/ Options!

2010-02-25T08:01:00.003-06:00

This snack table is one of the best investments I have ever made! It came loaded with options, such as!

1) Great Snack Table

2) Doubles as an Activity Table, Drums, Race Car Track, Car, Fort, Hiding Place for all sorts of little things........

3) And now a bench seat!

It has endless possibilities! lol

Still Miss you Everyday......

2010-02-19T06:50:00.003-06:00

A Memory Blanket we had made from my Dad's Shirts!

Its amazing!

No words I write can ever say

How much I miss you every day.

As time goes by, the loneliness grows;

How I miss you, nobody knows!

I think of you in silence, I often speak your name,

But all I have are memories

And photos in a frame.

No one knows my sorrow, No one sees me weep,

But the love I have for you

Is in my heart to keep.

I've never stopped loving you

I'm sure I never will;

Deep inside my heart,

You are with me still.

Heartaches in this world are many

But mine is worse than any.

My heart still aches as I whisper low,

"I need you and I miss you so."

The things we feel so deeply

Are often the hardest to say,

But I just can't keep quiet any more,

So I'll tell you anyway.

There is a place in my heart

That no one else can fill;

I love you so, Dad,

And I always will.

Larry Mark Cummins

1/23/58 - 2/19/2008

Lunch Menu for 2/16/2010

2010-02-16T11:28:00.002-06:00

2 Turkey Sticks

( Which Drake did not eat but decided to put in his hair)

Pears

( Which Drake did not eat but decided to put in his hair)

Jello

( Which Drake did not eat but decided to put in his hair)

Gold Fish

( Which Drake did not eat but TRIED to put in his hair)

AND FINALLY......

CHEERIOS!!!

( Which Drake did eat but also decided to put in his Diaper????)

I think there is a pattern....

EVERYTHING TASTE BETTER IF YOU PUT IT IN YOUR HAIR!

I guess Cheerios is a healthy lunch? lol

New Blog!

2010-02-16T06:18:00.003-06:00

Hello all my fellow Bloggers! Wanted to spread the word that I have started a new blog!

Drake's Closet

www.drakescloset.blogspot.com

I am selling all of Drake's gently used clothes on this site! Check it out, add the blog to your page, and pass on the word!

It's out with the old, and in with the new at the Herdes Household! We need to make room for Drake's new clothes! lol!

Thanks everyone for helping me and, and don't forget to follow my new blog so other's can find it too!!!

Have a great day!

Happy 1st Birthday Drake Ryan Herdes!

2010-01-14T07:04:00.005-06:00

What a precious bundle of joy you are. Cute from head to toe. You melt my heart with your sweetness, Everywhere you go. You're a very special gift Descended from heaven above. The most perfect little angel, Sent for your mommy and daddy to love.
With all my love on your very 1st birthday.

~Mommy

Drake's 1st year!

Photo taken by Britt Bailey, www.brittbailey.com

photo taken by Britt Bailey

He might get his looks from his Daddy.....

2009-12-30T07:16:00.002-06:00

But he definitely

got his driving skills from his mother!! haha!

Happy Holidays!

The Herdes'

Where does the day go?

2009-12-10T10:40:00.004-06:00

I thought being a stay at home mom would give me all the time in the world.............. BOY WAS I WRONG! It seems our day just gets started, and before I know it, its time for bath, bottles, and bed! I have really been slacking in the posting area, but it is going to be my New Year's Resolution to do better!

Both the little ones are napping right now so I thought I would take the time and post, instead of cleaning the house! :)

We have been preparing for X-mas and Drake's 1st Birthday! His Bday isnt until January but I wanted to get started before all the good toys were gone!

Dustin received an early Xmas present Tuesday, HIS NEW BOW! He wa soooo excited, as was Drake!

We have been so busy, with Deer Season and Holidays but Dustin and I did manage to sneak out of the house a couple weekends ago. I enjoyed a very good fun filled girls night out while Dustin attended Deer Camp!

Just a New Picutre!

2009-11-11T10:15:00.004-06:00

Just a little updated family pic from my Cousin's Wedding.... too bad Drake wasn't looking at the camera! Atleast his hands weren't infront of his face or Dustin's!

WANTED!!!

2009-11-11T10:04:00.003-06:00

WANTED!!!

The Toliet Paper Bandit has Struck again!!

Last known location: Rural Passport

Height: 29 1/2 inches

Weight: 25 lbs

Brown hair and BIG brown eyes and a killer grin!

He was last seen wearing only a Diaper!

Keep your eyes pealed for the Toliet Paper Bandit!

Who knows when he will strike again!!

Happy 2nd Anniversary!!

2009-11-03T06:16:00.005-06:00

Through the Years!!

Happy Anniversary to my Hubby of 2 years!!!

I love you!

BREAKING NEWS!

2009-10-20T13:55:00.001-05:00

Well it's official!! Starting in two weeks I will be spending all my time at home with Drake! I'm going to be a stay at home mommy and I can't wait! I also get the privilege of watching little Miss Avery Geier!!! I cannot wait to start my new adventure! It's been a long time coming!

Something new.... EVERYDAY!!!

2009-09-29T15:54:00.002-05:00

It's amazing how things change from day to day, one day he was army crawling, the next day he was crawling, and then he was pulling up to his knees, and now Drake is pulling up on everything and standing up! Sometimes he even thinks he needs to be a daredevil and let go of things! He is making me a nervous wreck! haha!

Dustin and I watched Kayden and Charlotte a couple weeks ago and I was so proud of myself to be able to get a picture of all the kids looking and smiling!

If all else fails, just crawl over the toys! haha!

Sunday was such nice weather we just couldn't pass it up! The hard top and 1/2 doors were on the jeep, so we all loaded up and went for a Sunday cruise! It was wonderful and Drake just LOVES the jeep!!!!

Drake has decided now that he wants to hold his own bottle, of course he doesn't want to do it all the time, but when he does it makes me sad because that just means my little baby is growing up!!!

Always, Always, Always......

2009-09-21T07:49:00.002-05:00

...... the only boy at the Bridal Showers!

Mr. & Mrs. Richardson

2009-09-17T07:45:00.003-05:00

Saturday was a great day! Nate and Sara took the plunge! What a great wedding! It was beautiful!
I had the pleasure of being a cake cutter and Dustin was a bartender! It was a fun night had by all!!!

Mr. &. Mrs Richardson

Josy and I

Dustin and I before the festivities!

After the festivities!

We had a wonderful time!

Thanks to the Richardson's for involving us in your special day!

CONGRATS SARA AND NATE!!!!!!

8 months old!

2009-09-14T15:45:00.004-05:00

Its hard to believe 8 months have came and gone so quickly!

Nicole and I were out the other morning and decided to take a few snap shots of Drake which turned out Amazing! Thanks for the great pics Nicole!!!!

Hi everyone!

I think this one is my fav!

He loves to give kisses to mommy!!!

Happy 8 months Pumpkin!

Another month gone by....

2009-09-13T16:50:00.003-05:00

So another month has went by and I have been slacking on my posting. Well hopefully now that things have slowed down I will be able to keep up with posting on a regular basis.

To start of my blogging string again, thought I would post a few jeep pics. Dustin restored his jeep in August so we have got to enjoy a few jeep rides during this nice weather! He actually had it all back together and running with in 3 weeks! I was so excited! He had tore down the jeep about a month after we started dating four year ago, and I hadn't seen it since! Well it came out of retirement and is a nice Sunday cruising vehicle!

Drake doesn't get to attend the jeep outings, but he loves to just sit in it!

Long time, No talk!

2009-08-06T10:26:00.006-05:00

Finally! Some free time! These past months have been crazy and I have found very little time to blog, but now that the Wendelin Picnic stuff has come to an end, it is time to start blogging again!

Two weekends ago was Jack and Kerri's Wedding. We had such a good time! Eventhough it was a very busy day with a funeral, 2 Wedding Showers, a Wedding, and a Reception! Drake did so good that day, but I think he was ready to go home with Papaw and MeMe by the days end!

Drake would not look at the Camera, but other than that it was a good pic!

Dustin and I enjoying the evening out!!!

Char's bday was in July, so we got together to celebrate!
I never realized how hard it was to get three kids to look at the camera at the same time! Not an easy task! Props to you photographers out there, because I have no clue how you do it!

Kayden informed us that Drake was too heavy, and he wasn't holding him anymore! haha!

My fav!

Drake is growing so fast!!!!!! He is army crawling all over the place and he is a fast little booger already! He is getting up on his hands and knees as well, but hasn't took the big plunge and crawled yet, but I know its just around the corner! Hopefully new pics to follow soon!!!

1/2 Way to a ONE YEAR OLD!

2009-07-14T09:26:00.003-05:00

WOW! It's hard to believe my baby is 6 month old already! Since I haven't found time to post lately I will give you a quick throw down on what Drake has been up to!

1) We have moved up to size 3 diapers!

2) Drake has 2 teeth on the bottom and working on 2 more!

3) He has awesome army crawling skills!

4) He's a toe sucker and loves to eat the newspaper, especially when Daddy is trying to read it!

5) Sits up by himself.

6) Loves to chew on everything and is in to EVERYTHING he can reach!

7) Loves him some green beans, carrots, and sweet potatoes.

8) His smile is contagious!

9) He can jump in his jumperoo for days!

10) We go through atleast 5 bibs a day due to drool!!!

5 months... and Counting!

2009-06-18T07:54:00.005-05:00

Wow! Its hard to believe Lil D was 5 months on Sunday! I know I am a little late posting, but just now got around to having more than 5 minutes of spare time!

Happy Belated 5 months Drake!!!

To start the pics, Drake was sitting in his Bumbo sit, with no toys!! :(
So he had to improvise.

Aww! Something I can chew and drool on!

Finally, he nabbed it!!!

Then he noticed mommy had caught him! haha!

I do not know how this could be comfortable at all, but he seemed to be out like a light!!
Mind you he started at the other end of the crib!!

Drake loves not having any clothes on!

Hope we don't have a streaker on our hands later! haha!

All spiffed up!

2009-06-08T09:04:00.003-05:00

On Saturday Trudi and Donald had a Cook-out for the Herdes gang. Great company and Great Food! Of course I forgot my camera because I had to take pics of Drake in his hat and crocks before we left, so this is the only picture I got....

He was all exicited for his first cook out!

Wrapped All into 1!

2009-06-03T20:23:00.006-05:00

So as usual I am slacking on the posting once again. There has been so much going on with us this past month, I haven't had time for too much extra. I have a break from school for the next two weeks, so I'm catching up on my blogging.

Baby Food Trials!

Drake has started trying out some baby food! It is so funny and yet sad, I can't believe how fast my baby boy is growing!!

Hmmm.. Not to sure about it yet.

Why are you feeding me this?

Ok, so I kinda like it!

First taste of Carrots.

Not his favorite food.

Prunes?? Are you kidding me??

Enough with the flashing thing lady!

Cowboy Up!!!

Drake has a Jumper that is a horse, and plays all kinds of LOVELY music! He really enjoys it and just goes to town jumping!!

Giddy - up Partner!

The new "mommy do"!

Here are the long awaited pictures of my new do! 16 1/2 inches and 9 years of long hair, gone!!!

Just a quick face shot!

A pic of Hil and I one our way to Dobb's 30th bday!

Happy 4 Months Drake!

2009-05-14T12:48:00.002-05:00

I loved you from the very start,You stole my breath, embraced my heart.Our life together has just begunYou're part of me my little one.As mother with child, each day I grew,My mind was filled with thoughts of you.

I'd daydream of the things we'd share,Like late-night bottles and Teddy bears.Like first steps and skinned knees,Like bedtime stories and ABC's.I thought of things you'd want to know,Like how birds fly and flowers grow.

I thought of lessons I'd need to share,Like standing tall and playing fair.When I first saw your precious face,I prayed your life be touched with grace.I thanked the angels from above,And promised you unending love.

Each night I lay you down to sleep,I gently kiss your head and cheek.I count your little fingers and toes;I memorize your eyes and nose.I linger at your nursery door,Awed each day I love you more.

Through misty eyes, I dim the light,I whisper, "I love you" every night.I loved you from the very start,You stole my breath, embraced my heart.As mother and child our journeys begin,My heart's yours forever little one.

Mother's Day

2009-05-12T10:49:00.003-05:00

What a great first mother's day ( pics to come soon!) minus the fact that Dustin got called out on storm Friday night, so it was just me and Drake! I definitely had some good surprises though! When I returned home Saturday from the Poker Run ( pics of that coming soon) I noticed a new Shepard hook by our back deck accompanied by a beautiful hanging basket and a lovely arrangement on the deck! I was so excited, but started wondering how the heck it got there!!! Well I soon found out, that Dustin had his dad come over and put those things out for me from him and Drake! On Monday I received the sweetest card in the mail ( from Dustin) and my new mother's ring is ordered! I can't wait to get it!

Since Dustin was on storm, I thought it was only right to take this pic of Drake and send it to him and tell him we missed him!
( He's shirt says " My Daddy is a lineman")

A Day with Melissa!

2009-05-05T10:36:00.005-05:00

On Monday my babysitter was closed, and my friend Melissa was home from grad school. You happily offered to watch Drake for the day so she could spend some time with him!

So what do they do?? They go to Gliks and Drake received two new outfits!

I love the back of this one! Super Cute!
Thanks again Melissa for watching Drake!!! And for his new outfits! I loved them and so did Drake!

He has found his feet!

I could not resist posting this pic! He was doing the robot! haha!

Big Boy Chair!

2009-05-04T09:37:00.001-05:00

This morning I put Drake in his Bumbo Chair. He loved it! Last time we tried this he was not to thrilled with it, but now he was enjoying it! Drake has been holding his head up forever now, so I thought maybe it was time to put him in the chair and this time he didn't look like such a bobble head! haha!

Fab Four's Last Supper!

2009-04-28T12:38:00.003-05:00

For those of you that don't know, Hillary Geier has moved to Como ( Columbia, Mo) for a new job!!!
Last Wed. we had a supper at Jen's house ( which was delicious by the way even though those dang taters took 3 hours to cook!) Here are a few pics from the Fab Four's Supper!

My little Man!

Drake and Mommy!

the FABULOUS FOUR!

Spring is here!

2009-04-28T12:37:00.001-05:00

Drake's first mushroom! You can tell he is thrilled!

Deer Banquet 09'

2009-04-28T12:32:00.004-05:00

QDQB 2009!!

I'm a little late posting these pics but oh well!

A couple of weeks ago we had our QDQB ( Quality Doe, Quality Bucks) Deer Banquet for the 2008-2009 Season. Dustin and a group of guys split up into two teams for Deer season. You are awarded points for the number of kills, the biggest buck, and so on......

The BIG BUCK CHAMP this year........... DUSTIN!!!!!!!!!!!! He was pumped!!!

The two Dustins had a pretty close race going for Big Buck Champ!

Anyone up for a Dip?

2009-04-23T12:54:00.003-05:00

Does anyone want to go for a swim w/ me in my new Speedo! ;)

Atleast I look better than this guy! haha!

I GIVE UP!!!!

2009-04-13T13:33:00.002-05:00

Last Wednesday, we had a milestone!!! Drake ROLLED OVER from his belly to his back! I have been trying to download this video since last week, but I have been unsuccessful!!! Dang it! I will try to upload the pics tonight along with the story! If anyone has any tips on downloading a video, please pass them on to me!! I want to share this wonderful expierence with all of you but I am having a time with this stupid thing!

BUSTED!

2009-04-06T11:00:00.002-05:00

The notorious thumb sucker!

The smile after mommy caught him!

Our First Trip to RMH

2009-03-23T06:05:00.003-05:00

What a weekend full of events! To start with, I picked Drake up from Nicole's on Thursday after work ( he did not go to Kelly's on Thursday because Sadie has been sick), I was there for about 10 minutes, when Nicole and myself started to smell this awful stinch! It did not smell like a Drake dirty diaper, but that's where the smell was coming from. As I went to change his diaper, I discovered he now had diarrhea, this was my first diarrhea diaper! WOOHOO! Well in the processes of changing this diaper, Drake decided he wasn't quite finished! Fun Fun! When I finished and picked him up, his face touched mine and he felt really warm to me. Through out the night I continued to take his temp because that is what the doc told me to do and give him Pedialyte. Finally about 1:30, I no longer believed the ear thermometer that said his temp had been 99 for the past 4 hours. I braved it and went for the rectal temp. 102.3!!!!!!!!!! I would say our ear thermometer was a little off! If was off to the bath and cold wash clothes after that to try to bring down that temp!

On Friday morning we went to see Doc. Einhorn and of course were admitted to the hospital right away! After being there for about and hour we found the Drake had caught a nasty virus and we would be spending our weekend in the lovely RMH hotel! While I was making my phone calls, I was washing off Drake's pacifier in the sink, and my phone popped off my shoulder and right into the DANG TOILET!! SHOOT!

Then came time to for the IV! Well at first no veins were found, they poked him once ( THANK GOD) and couldn't find it, so they called in reinforcements! Mary Francis was called in to the rescue! Mary did great and got Drake's vein in the first try! Thanks Mary for being so Great to my little guy!!!!!

Drake did great the whole time we were there! He was a happy little baby even though he was hooked up to all this junk!

( his hands are blurry because he was moving them around so fast!)

So all in all, our weekend was pretty eventful but I hope we do not have any more trips to RMH in the near future!

Say Cheese!

2009-03-18T19:32:00.002-05:00

Drake's pictures have been posted! Check them out!

www.photographicsgallery.net

Thanks Amber, they look great!

Top O' the Morning to Ya!!

2009-03-17T10:32:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Mom!

2009-03-10T00:08:00.002-05:00

Happy 50th Birthday Mom!!!

We Love You!

Myself, Susanne, and Mom

Celebrating her birthday at Stables in Terre Haute.

The Many Faces of Drake

2009-03-08T22:44:00.001-05:00

Mommy your so funny!!

Why do you keep flashing that thing in my face?

My Elvis face!

Hello World!

2009-03-04T01:52:00.000-06:00

Putting on my Waitress Shoes!

2009-02-28T12:54:00.002-06:00

Yes you read it right! I'm back to my old ways, and waitressing at Vics tonight! Vics has two big parties tonight, and needed a hand so I thought what the heck! Gosh its been awhile since I have done this! I hope I remember everything! But hey, I didn't waitress for 7 years for nothing! I'm excited to make a little extra cash tonight! I just hope Dustin and Drake do ok! I'm a little nervous about leaving them all evening! I have left for a few hours before, but never all evening! Wish us all luck!

Say Hello and Say Goodbye!

2009-02-27T12:51:00.002-06:00

Say Goodbye to Samee JO's Small Talk and Say Hello to The Happenings of the Herdes Household! It was time to move on to this blog being all about the Herdes Family and our events of everyday life! Not only does the blog have a new name, but a new a look as well!

Hope you all tune in everyday to the Happenings of the Herdes Household and watch with us as Drake changes everyday!

Drake's Baptism

2009-02-25T19:23:00.003-06:00

Saturday night was Drake's baptism @ Holy Cross. Afterwards we all gathered at Vics for supper! It was a good time had by all & Drake did wonderful the whole night!

Drake was sleeping through the whole thing, but he was making the funniest faces!

Drake's Godparents Susanne ( my sister) and Calvin( Dustin's Cousin).

Our Family!

My Family

Lea, Michele, Mom, Myself, Drake, Dustin, & Susanne

The Herdes Family.

Dennis, Diane, Sara,Myself, Drake, Dustin, & Emily

My Little Valentine!

2009-02-25T18:34:00.003-06:00

I figured better late than never! I loved Drake's little outfit that I got from Old Navy that I had to pay extra shipping for to get it here by V-Day so I figured I better get those pics posted! haha!

I couldn't help but post this pic! He was so mad!

Guess he didn't like his outfit as much as I did! haha

He was being a little ham in this one!

Here's Drake w/ his new stuff animal from Grandpa and Grandma Herdes.

He was yelling at it! haha!

A Tribute to my Dad

2009-02-18T23:12:00.007-06:00

God saw you getting tired and a cure was not meant to be.

So he put his arms around you and whispered "Come to Me".

With tearful eyes we watched you,

as we saw you pass away.

Although we loved you deeply,

we could not make you stay.

Your Golden Heart stopped beating,

hard working hands at rest.

God broke our hearts to prove to us,

He only takes the best.

It's hard to believe thats its been a whole year since we lost Dad. It doesn't seem like it was that long ago, maybe cause I remember it like it was yesterday. It's still so hard sometimes to walk into the house and not see him sitting in his chair, or to realize that I can't just call and talk to him about the Illini game thats on t.v. The little things still get to me, which I'm sure they always will, I just always want to remember the wonderful man my father was and how many lives he touched!

I've added some of my favorite photos!

For those of you that aren't up by the Gila Church very often, I wanted to show you Dad's stone. It is just beautiful and I wanted to share it, so I took picutures when I was up there today.

Just a Swingin!

2009-02-11T21:52:00.003-06:00

Finally!! Drake sat in his swing three different times today! Up to this point, he has wanting nothing to do with his swing or bouncy seat. So today I thought we would give it another run. Of course two of the times, he was already sleeping when I put him in the swing, but the third time he was awake. Since he was awake, he wanted out after about 4 minutes, but hey, its progress!!!!

No Pictures, Please! haha!

Where has the time gone?

2009-02-11T15:49:00.004-06:00

My little boy is 4 weeks old today!! Where has all the time gone? It seems like just yesterday we were bringing him home! And I know the time is just going to keep going faster!!! I want it to slow down!

Napping with Daddy in the Recliner ( Seems to be a weekend ritual)

Our version of Guitar Hero! Looks like he is playing the air guitar! haha!

Bottle Issues!

2009-02-05T13:38:00.002-06:00

Since we have been home, sometimes Drake has issues eating. Over the past week, it has gotten worse. At first I thought it was the difference between latex and silicone nipples. So I stuck just to the latex ones. I was thinking I was super mommy and fixed the problem. Well the problem came back again, and I think I have finally solved the issue. I think Drake gets his tongue in the way, and then gets to frustrated because he is not getting anything to eat. It takes us a while now to get his tongue pushed down so he can eat.

I have been using the Playtex drop-in bottles for the fact of we have well water, and for sanitation reasons these are the safest for us. He does take his nuk pacifier very well, so I was thinking about trying the nuk nipples. Has anyone had these issues, or have any insight on what I should try or do. He gets so frustrated when he is eating, its upsetting!!! Luckily it doesn't happen all the time, but if I could fix it, then things would be alot better for Drake and Mommy!!

3 Weeks Old!

2009-02-04T15:23:00.004-06:00

My little guy is three weeks old today!!!

Where does the time go?

Our First Doctor Appt!

2009-02-03T20:53:00.003-06:00

Friday, Drake had his first doc appt! He now weighs in at

7lbs 14 oz

and is 20 inches long!

Drake is still drowning in most of his clothes, haha, but maybe one of these days some of those cute outfits he has will fit! haha!

Here are some pics of the first doc appt!

My First Night Alone!

2009-01-27T22:44:00.002-06:00

Dustin was in bed about 9:30 tonight, while Drake and I were hanging out on the couch. The phone rang about 10:30, when it does that its usually a good guess its Dustin's work calling or someone from Vics needing a ride! ( just kidding Lea!!! haha!! ) Well it was work this time. Dustin's been called out on an ice storm. So he will be leaving in about an hour or so, so it's just me and Drake tonight! I know it will be hard on Dustin to be away form Drake for more than just a day at work! He is such a baby hog at night! haha! We will be sending Daddy lots of phone pics while he is gone! Hope its not a long trip and Daddy gets to come home soon!

Coping w/ Colic!

2009-01-27T20:26:00.004-06:00

So over the past three days, Drake has become fussy, and has not been sleeping good at night! He was doing so good I knew things were to good too be true! He has become really tense at night, gassy, and acts like he it having problems going poop! Oh no!

Well he is on antibiotics, I thought that could be the issue with the constipation. Today I called the Doc, and the seem to think it could be colic. So I have been searching the web all evening on information on colic. Maybe I am freaking out a little early, but I wanted to know what I was dealing with since I did not know alot about colic. He definately has ALL the symptoms!

Hopefully, I have prepared myself and Dustin for this with little tips I have found on the net. If anyone has any information I am open for some help!!!!!!!!!!!! And maybe this is just a phase with the medicine!!! Only time will tell!

Wide Awake!

2009-01-26T13:54:00.002-06:00

Finally I got some pictures that Drake has his eyes opened!

Lazy Days

2009-01-23T14:18:00.001-06:00

My Boys catching up on some sleep.

Going Down, Down, Down!

2009-01-21T14:38:00.004-06:00

Today Drake's points were down to 13, so no more blanket! We have to go back to the hospital in the morning for another test, but hopefully it keeps going down! We returned the blanket today and I was ready to see it go!

Here are a few pics of the family the past couple of days!

Chilling Out w/ Daddy!

He looks like he is praying! So Precious!

My first outing to the hospital w/ Mommy.

My Little Glow Worm!

2009-01-20T08:07:00.002-06:00

Monday morning we had to go back to the hospital to have Drake's jaundice level checked. When we left on Friday he was at a 7.2, well yesterday when we went back it had jumped up to a 17.3.

So we were sent home with the Wallayby 3. What a lovely machine. Luckily Drake didn't seem to mind, he slept most of the time. Let's just say Mom was a little emotional about it. It was really hard to pick him up and hold and cuddle him with this thing on. It was more upsetting to me than him! We are going back this morning for more tests, I will post an update later!

Drake Ryan Herdes

2009-01-18T18:54:00.004-06:00

Dustin and I want to welcome the new addition to our family,

Drake Ryan Herdes

Jan. 14, 2009

8:19 p.m.

7 lbs. 3 oz.

19 1/2 inches

I wanted to share with everyone the story of how we picked out Drake's name because it is very special to me. Almost two years ago, when we got out dog Kaiser, mom and myself we sitting on the couch discussing dog names, and Dad was in his recliner watching football not paying a bit of attention to our converstation ( so we thought). Well as I am getting ready to leave, Dad chimes in, " Hey Sam, you know what name I like, I like the name Drake Ryan, but not for a dog, you can use it for your son some day." It just so happens that Dustin, his dad, and his uncle have the intials D.R.H., and we wanted to carry on that tradition. So it worked out perfectly and was meant to be. W e got to incorporate both of our families, and my first child got to be named by my Dad, which means so much to me.

Here are a few pictures to hold you all over till I have time to post some more!

Drake and his Daddy

Proud Papa

First Family Photo

My first bottle.

Drake and his Mommy

The Herdes'

Dustin, Samantha, and Drake

I look like my Papaw Dennis in this picture!

Yeah it's time to go home!

All excited to be going home!!

Has Anyone Seen my Cankles?

2009-01-08T18:53:00.004-06:00

I'm sure you all wanted to see pictures of my feet, but I was so amazed today that I had to share.

I've had the issue the past month of not being able to see my ankles due to the fact of my preggo belly, but today I was in shock when I got home from work to put my feet up and I found my ankle on my right foot was gone! I guess the swelling has begun! But hey I made it to 2 1/2 weeks to go till my ankles disappeared! Not to shabby!

A Different Type of New Year's Eve!

2009-01-01T18:23:00.004-06:00

It was definitely a different NYE for us this year. We started the night off at the Holiday with the Newton Gang having supper! What a ball! We do not get to spend enough time with this group, so when we do it is always a treat! We arrived back home by 9:30. The plan was to change into some warm clothes and make a quick trip around to some of the parties ( since my feet were already the size of watermelons! haha) Well before I knew it, Dustin was snoring in the recliner. So I put my pj's on and was off to bed. I think we both slept through midnight! Man are we just a ball of fun! ;)

WOW!!!! ITS AMAZING HOW A YEAR CAN CHANGE THINGS!

This was Dustin and I last year on New Year's. The party was at our house. Never fear for those who missed the Herdes Household Party this year, it is on again for next year!!

And this year! Which I would not change any of it for the world! Just part of preparing for our new arrival! We are on Countdown now!

Our X-Mas Album!

2008-12-31T11:28:00.005-06:00

Pictures of our Christmas and of course the growing baby bump!

X-mas at Dennis and Diane's.
Look @ that belly!

Dustin getting some practice in before the big day!

He's Favorite Gift Bag! haha!

Midnight Mass.
( man was a swollen that night or what! )

The women of the family on X-mas Eve.

Just the "three" of us!

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T08:07:00.000-06:00

"This is a time for reflection as well as celebration.

As you look back on the past year and all that has taken place in your life,

Remember each experience for the good that has come of it
and for the knowledge you have gained.

Remember the efforts you have made and the goals you have reached.

Remember the love you have shared and the happiness you have brought.

Remember the laughter, the joy, the hard work, and the tears.

And as you reflect on the past year, also be thinking of the new one to come.

Because most importantly, this is a time of new beginnings

and the celebration of life."

2008-12-23T14:30:00.002-06:00

The Herdes' Family!

Britton X-Mas!

2008-12-23T13:29:00.003-06:00

Last Saturday we had X-mas with the Britton side. Thought I would add a pic of my sister, mom, and my niece. Of course this is the nice picture of the Christmas Bump!

A Lonely X-Mas?

2008-12-20T08:15:00.003-06:00

Well Dustin got called out last night to the Ice Storms that hit Northern Indiana. I believe this happend last year, and he made it back after 2 weeks in Kansas the night before X-Mas Eve. Hopefully we are just as lucky this year and he makes it back in time! I'm a little nervous with the pregnancy and him being gone. At least he's only about 5 hours away. Let's just hope Baby D doesn't decide he wants to come 4 weeks early.

Hopefully the guys get all the power back on for those in need and they can all have a warm Christmas and our lineman can return home for the Holidays!

Happy Birthday Cook!

2008-12-19T08:40:00.002-06:00

Happy B-day to one of my long time BFF's!
Jessica Cook- Collins!

Love Ya!

A Shower in December.

2008-12-08T17:02:00.003-06:00

Sunday I had my baby shower. It was B-E-A-U-TIFUL!!! Thanks to all my family and friends that helped put it all together and make it a very special day for me! Also Thanks to everyone that attended and your gifts, they are greatly appreciated and Baby D will get his use out of all of them!

My wonderful family and friends that gave me a wonderful shower!

Gift opening!

More pictures to come!

Happy Birthday to You!

2008-12-05T09:07:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday to my sis-in-law Emily! Hope it's a good one!

Love Samee, Dustin, and Baby D!

Baby Bump Watch

2008-12-01T18:47:00.004-06:00

Just an updated pic from Thanksgiving of the growing baby bump! It's been awhile since I had posted one so I thought I was over due!

My Favorite Day of the Year!

2008-11-26T13:17:00.002-06:00

As you all know this Friday is "Black Friday!" The biggest shopping day of them all! I am usually so pumped by Wed that I cannot wait for Friday to come so I can be up at 2:00 a.m. and at the front of the doors when the stores open! But this year, I am afraid I am going to sit this one out. I figure it would probably not be the best running into people in line, ect. But you can guarantee I will be hitting those online sales while enjoying the comfort of my own couch with hubby massaging my feet!
(Well that last part my be pushing it)! ;)

Another One Bites the Dust!

2008-11-18T09:30:00.002-06:00

Well Dustin got his third deer this morning about 5:45! Unfortunately it wasn't with a shot gun or a bow, it was with the car!

I will give him props though, atleast it was a buck!

My poor car! I should've known letting Dustin drive it, it would never be the same! haha!

Doe Down!

2008-11-17T13:13:00.003-06:00

Deer # 2 is in the bag. Dustin shot a doe on Friday evening. Yeah! Now we have two deer being processed! I think we will have enough deer jerky to last us awhile! This year he has decided to keep and freeze the loins for me to cook! Has anyone everyone cooked deer loin? Yeah, guess I'm going to have to google those recipes. I'll let ya all know how they turn out!

Though we have two deer down, the hunt is not over yet. 1st slug season is this weekend. So there is a possibility of MORE DEER MEAT! I know Dustin has he's eye on another nice buck already, so we will see what happens!

WOW! What more can I say!

2008-11-13T13:12:00.004-06:00

I took this picture from my cousin Lea's blog. After we lost my dad to his courageous battle to cancer, we learned that some of the driver's at Sherwin Williams had graphics made to put on their trucks to remember him. I have yet to see one myself, but Lea and her Mom caught a glimpse of one the day.

The impression a person can make on other people is amazing! My dad defiantely touched alot of lives, and this is such a tribute to the wonderful man that he was!!!!

I miss you Daddy!

Delicious Deer!

2008-11-08T08:32:00.002-06:00

1st Bow Kill of 2008! It was a nice one! I have a feeling this one is going to be hanging in our living room!

Good Job Honey!

Just call me Betty Crocker! ( or Rachel Ray)

2008-11-04T10:26:00.003-06:00

For our 1 Year Anniversary, Dustin surprised me with the best gift, Rachel Ray Cookware Set!!!! I was so pumped! For those of you who know me, you know I love to cook, so this was a great gift!!! It really meant alot because he put some thought into it because I haven't said anything about it since before we got married! So I was so happy with my present and I will be cooking up a storm now!

Dustin received Rock Band and a new wedding band ( since his no longer fit and could not be sized). I will post pics later of our first Rock Band Experience. He was also very surprised with his gift. About two months ago he mentioned Rock Band and how he would like to have it, I made a mental note and that is what he received!!! I'm really good with surprising him!!! :)

Happy Anniversary Sweetheart!

2008-11-03T08:08:00.002-06:00

Another year to create precious memories together.Another year to discover new things to enjoy about each other. Another year to build a life rich in love and laughter. Another year to strengthen a marriage that defines "forever."

Couple of the Year!

2008-10-30T08:11:00.003-05:00

Ryan and Leah had their Halloween Party this past Saturday, so I would like to introduce:

BUBBA AND RHONDA

BUBBA AND RHONDA & THEIR FRIENDS

We had so much fun with these costumes! I figured this is probably the last time I will ever be able to show my stomach so why ot flaunt it! haha!

TAG I'm it!

2008-10-24T11:11:00.002-05:00

TAG---I'm it

Sarah from Sarah Sez has tagged me, so here it goes!

The rules go like this:
1. Post the rules on your blog.
2. Write 6 random things about yourself.
3. Tag 6 people at the end of your post(or as many as you want)
4. If you are tagged, do it and pass the tag along.
5. Enjoy

- I cant stand not to wear underwear, bra, and socks that match. I guess I think if I'm in a wreck I want to make sure I am all matching and look my best! haha! Weird I know!

- I shave my legs everyday, no matter whether its 90 out and I'm wearing shorts, or its 20 and I have on long johns and jeans.

- I have a slight obsession with matching my nail polish on my fingers to my toes.

- I rearrange Baby D's stuff in his room everyday.

- My closet is color coded, all the way from shoes, to shirts, to pants, to purses.

And now to pass on the tag.

Lea @ Live Well....Laugh Often.... Love Much

Sara @ A Little Piece of Our Lives

Jessica @ Cookin' It Up With Collins

TAG---YOU ARE ALL IT

Have fun!!!

Birthday Surprises!

2008-10-22T16:09:00.001-05:00

Surprise # 1

from my hubby

Sleep Anyone?

2008-10-21T22:21:00.002-05:00

Well it is now 10:30, which is two hours past my bed time, but I still cannot seem to sleep. I toss and turn, have the dreaded leg cramps, and just cannot get comfy. I knew all this would be coming sooner or later, but I was hoping it would be later rather than sooner. Suggestions anyone? Dustin has been asleep for two hours now, I have worked on homework, cleaned, and watched T.V. I guess I give up on trying to sleep if I lay there for more than 10 minutes and cannot sleep! I am impatient!

Hopefully my eyes will decide they are getting sleepy and I will get to bed before 2 a.m. tonight! Otherwise, work is going to suck tomorrow, and that would stink because I have a very busy day, its my 24th Bday! I wonder what my hubby has in store for me!

Well I'm out for the evening. I'm going to go mess around in Baby D's room for a little bit, and then try to get some sleep for my big day tomorrow!

That's My Daddy!

2008-10-16T10:51:00.002-05:00

Baby D received one of his first gifts on Sunday.

Thanks Aunt Sheila!

GIRLS NIGHT OUT!

2008-10-12T08:58:00.002-05:00

Saturday Night, we had a little Wendelin Girls Night Out! I feel like its been forever since I have been out for a social night with the gal pals. We went to Flora, and ate at La Fuentas ( very good! ) The rest of the girls ventured out to the bars in Flora and Olney. I called it a night, and returned back to Vics to hang out with my boys. It was a great night, and I'm looking forward to my next Girls Night Out!

New Template

2008-10-11T09:40:00.003-05:00

So this new template is all HTML. Wish me luck! The one's I have used in the past were Layouts provided by Blogspot. So this should be interesting. I hope I can figure it out!

Ya Gotta Love Fall!

2008-10-11T08:31:00.003-05:00

BUSTED!!!!!

Three Words

PAYBACKS ARE HELL!!!!!

Baby D's Nursery Bedding

2008-10-08T20:38:00.004-05:00

So bits and pieces are starting to come together with the nursery. I was so excited today when I stopped by mom's and there was a large box on the front step! BABY STUFF!!!! I couldn't wait to rip open the box and look at the bedding and all the goodies! Dustin says Baby D will probably be scared for life and never want to deer hunt because of the prancing deer around his head! haha! Who would even think of it? Once we started putting it all together, he loved it too just as much as I do!

Bon-Fire Friday!

2008-10-03T19:35:00.003-05:00

So what do you do on a Friday night when you have all these boxes from baby stuff and nothing else to do? You pile em up and light them on fire, grab your lawn chair and watch it burn! But make sure the hose is on stand-by in case it gets out of hand!

It's just the water hose I promise!! But the way he is standing doesn't help! haha!

The Wanna-Be Fireman!

Friday Night Entertainment!

( Now its off to Olney for Ice Cream, I might even talk Dustin into swinging in to some stores. Mama needs a new pair of shoes)! haha!

Baby D Pictures!

2008-10-02T20:51:00.003-05:00

Baby D's Face.

(He has his hands up by his face, he kept trying to hide)

Baby D's little hand!

Baby D's Little Foot!

The Proof that he was a boy!

Dustin's Daddy Daycare

2008-09-29T06:59:00.007-05:00

Last weekend Dustin put together the crib and the changing table. We have yet to get to the dresser, but I think he needed more than a weeks break before he got started on that one! haha!

Here are a few pics of the Proud Papa getting the nursery ready. ( Notice he would not look up for me)!!!

Updated Bump Pictures!

2008-09-28T10:00:00.003-05:00

In the past 3 weeks I have really blossomed! Dustin has been away for two weeks working, and only got to come home on the weekends and he couldn't' believe how much my belly had grown in just a weeks time! ( I'm glad that he is home again now and the road trip is over)!!! Well when I went to the doctor last Thursday I had had a growth spurt since the last time I was there!

Here are a few updated pictures for you all to see the growing Bump!!!

Susanne, Mom and I. The bump is really showing in this one!

Richelle, Zach, Dustin and I

The Bump is kinda hiding out in this pic, but don't be fooled! It's there!!

2008-09-27T08:20:00.002-05:00

FINALLY!!!!

2008-09-26T10:06:00.001-05:00

The Big Day is here! Our appt is at 4:00! This day is going to drag I know!
It feels like Christmas! haha! Dustin and I are sooo anxious!
I will try to post tomorrow, so if you are interested to see if Baby Herdes will be a boy or a girl, check back tomorrow!

Harvest Blessings!

2008-09-24T19:51:00.003-05:00

I'm so proud of my new Harvest Display! Dustin got home from storm last weekend and was very surprised at his new lawn decorations he gets to mow around! I was very productive when Dustin was on storm, I got my autumn decor out, washed windows, and cleaned the baby's room ( once again)! Is this nesting?

Countdown to Pink or Blue!

2008-09-24T13:00:00.002-05:00

The Countdown is on! We have our ultrasound @ 4:00 on Friday! Hopefully Baby Herdes corporates and we will know if we will be decorating in pink or blue! Dustin and I are very anxious!

Stylish Baby! ( Well Stylish Belly for Now!)

2008-09-21T13:20:00.004-05:00

Mom and I engaged in one of our famous flying shopping trips to Evansville last weekend. I must say, in the 6 hours we were there, we got alot done! The baby crib, dresser, and changing table are all at home! Actually they are being put together as we speak. Dustin is working hard ( and cussing a little haha) putting it all together. I should have pictures of the finally product soon.

Mom and I picked up a few neutral onesies while we were shopping. I couldn't stand it anymore. I had a buy something for Baby Herdes!

Mom Picked up this one in Old Navy, and we got to laughing so hard, I really thought I was going to wet my pants! haha!

This will be one Rockin Baby!

But of course for now, I can not use these onesies, so I guess it will just have to be the stylish belly for now, Motherhood Maternity and Lucky Brand Maternity have become my favorite places to shop! I've uploaded a few of my new fall outfits! Can't wait to try them out!

This Dress will be perfect for one of my three weddings coming up! Really Cute w/ Black Tights and Knee High Boots!

I can't wait to wear this outfit!

The Best Jeans ever! Lucky Brand Maternity! I would recommend them to anyone!

Welcome Lea-Bo-Dea!

2008-09-19T10:52:00.003-05:00

For those of you who think we look alike, we do! But no we are not sisters. This is my younger cousin Lea! And I want to welcome her to the blogging world!
I'm looking forward to reading her blog as she keeps us all up to date on her College Life! Welcome Lea!! Love Ya!

www.leabodea.blogspot.com

The Search is Over!!!!

2008-09-16T08:34:00.003-05:00

FINALLY!!! I can relax! I have found a sitter! I am soooooo happy! I was really starting to stress. Everyone I had talked to had their sitters lined up already, and her I am lolly gagging behind! Buy my fears are gone now and I am so happy to have Kelly Iffert watching Baby Herdes when he or she arrives!

Hopefully I will not be looking like this anymore!

It seems alot of my post have to do with me being stressed, maybe we need a Vacation! Any ideas? haha!

Update: We found out in 1 1/2 weeks what we will be having!!! :)

Did you watch last night?

2008-09-10T08:08:00.003-05:00

WOW!! Does anyone else watch Big Brother 10???? What a show last night! Dustin and I are completely obsessed with Big Brother 10! We love it, and last night once again surprised us all! Jerry is definitely our favorite, and we were for sure he was going home, till Memphis decided to play the game, and keep Jerry instead of Keesha! We are anxiously awaiting the next show!

1/2 Way There!

2008-09-03T12:49:00.003-05:00

So I had another doc appt today! Everything was perfect! Baby Herdes' heartbeat was going like crazy, the doc had no problems finding it today!

The belly is still growing and weight gain is going good. So the next appointment is in 3 weeks, and GUESS WHAT! That's when we get our ultrasound to find out if it s a boy or a girl!!! Now with our luck, Dustin will probably get called out on storm, and I will have to wait another 3 weeks before finding out!

Let's keep our fingers crossed!

An End of an Era!

2008-08-29T21:15:00.003-05:00

For the past 8 years, the people of Jasper and Richland County have seen the SAMEEJO zoom around corners, and speed down the road. Anywhere I went whether I was in my first purple Grand Am or when I moved on to My Dodge Stratus R/T, people knew who was driving. Well not anymore, today I had to renew my plates to my car ( which this has been a battle since dad passed because the title was in his name and it was just a mess). Anywho, Dustin and I had a along talk about whether to keep the plates, or move on to something more sophisticated. Well for the time being, since I now drive the truck and Dustin drives the SAMEEJO ( as I called it) for a work car now we decided to go with just random plates. I guess its another chapter closed in my life, with another starting! Maybe the next time I get a new vehicle I will go with S HRDES ( Sherdes as Dustin likes to say ) or maybe DS HERD or maybe I'll go with HRDES 3 . The SAMEEJO is gone, but never to be forgotten!

P.S Don't worry about the bird in the grille, Dustin was saving it for later! My husband! You never know with him, trust me!

Another Semester, Another Class, Another Headache?

2008-08-28T10:08:00.003-05:00

So yet another semester of my college career has begun! I think I might when the award for being a college student for the longest yet! I still have a year and half to go! This semester I have clinics! Fun Fun! I am excited about this! But its going to be alot of work! Not only to I have to put in 4-6 Lab Hours in the grade school classrooms each week, I have to have 2 hours of college class time, make lesson plans, bulletin boards, projects, tests...ect. I will have all the duties of a teacher ( not quite as many though), and at the same time, I will be rounded out my pregnancy, working full time, and trying to get the babies room ready! I think I might have my hands full! And of course I have to make time for my hubby too!! :)

Birthday Weekend!

2008-08-26T07:09:00.003-05:00

This past weekend was Dustin's Birthday Party. His 25th Birthday was on Sunday. I was so busy with these festivities I have really been slacking on the posting! But here are a few pics from the cookout on Saturday that we had.

He's half way to 50 now! haha! Hope you had a good birthday honey! I love ya!

The wonderful cooks!

Dustin and his little mini me Brayden! So Cute!

The Drunken Watermelon! How many people does it take it intoxicate a watermelon?

The Ultimate Flippy Cup Player!! Hey just cause your Preggo doesn't mean you can't participate! I used my drink of choice, H2O!!! haha!

My Plan

2008-08-21T11:41:00.002-05:00

So for the next couple of days, this is what I will be doing getting things ready for our company! Fun Fun! They say you will clean alot when you hit that "nesting period" but trust me, I have yet to hit that! haha!

Searching for Sitters

2008-08-19T20:02:00.002-05:00

So we already had a babysitter lined up for Baby Herdes once he/she arrived, but things happen and this person had decided to go back to school! Go Jada Go!! I know you will do great! So I am on the hunt again!!! If anyone knows of a sitter between the Wakefield, Wendelin, Newton area let me know! I know it will be awhile before Baby Herdes arrives but better safe then sorry.
I like to have everything ready! So once again, if you know of anyone sitters, I'm open for suggestions!