Pullen All Nighters: Family Life With Ella Kate & Caroline

Welcome Sweet Caroline!

2011-07-21T09:39:00.001-07:00

Our new little bundle of joy arrived June 16 - and we're tired! She is an amazingly sweet little girl and we're all completely in love.

So far, she looks like her Daddy!

Stationery card

View the entire collection of cards.

Pullen All Nighters... Again.

2011-04-18T14:14:00.001-07:00

Just as we get one little girl sleeping through the night, we'll be welcoming another one and starting the process all over again.

Say hello to Caroline Elizabeth!

She will join our little family on or before June 27. Ella Kate was convinced we were having a boy, so after the initial shock and denial wore off, she decided that she's excited about being a big sister. She tells us that she's most excited about teaching Caroline to brush her teeth and that she'll have someone to ride in the back seat with her!

So... Life Got in the Way of Blogging...

2011-04-18T13:59:00.000-07:00

I'm terribly ashamed that I haven't added a single entry since November, and even that post was a recap of Halloween. Much has happened in the past 6 months and I will eventually get it all on the World Wide Web. I can't promise it'll be in sequential order, because my mind is currently operating in "Stream of Conciousness" mode.

Stay tuned!

Halloween

2010-11-18T08:27:00.001-08:00

Snow White ruled her kingdom of Cavalcade Circle! Poppi and Gigi came up to help pass out candy and serve in Snow White's prestigious entourage.

2010 Blessing of the Animals

2010-11-18T08:11:00.000-08:00

Ponies, turtles, and chickens, OH MY!

Blessing of the Animals is one of my favorite parts of being an Episcopalian family. EK adores visiting all of God's creatures and amazingly enough, is usually well behaved during the service since there's so much to look at.

EK and Daddy reviewing the words to the opening hymn.

Her favorite animal: PONY!

Giving her own two animals a little love.

Not sure what this puppy's name is, but EK loved him!

Chickens, birds, kittens, hedgehogs, bunnies and SO MUCH more! Too cold for fish, though.

Full Time Academia

2010-08-18T12:14:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from the past two months. She really is only 2 and a half, even though she's the size of an average 4 year old!

Now that Ella Kate is going to school every day, we don't have nearly as much time to take photos of her escapades. And believe me, they are plentiful. I understand that she keeps her class entertained.

Miracle Baby

2010-08-06T22:23:00.000-07:00

Many things about Ella Kate making it into the world are miraculous. (Including the fact that Richard and I haven't taken her out of this world in one of her strong-willed moments.)

Over the last two years, I've posted about the loss of our first baby, Carson. I learned a lot about myself during those months and started to understand that I have very little control over what happens in life.

What I haven't mentioned is that we now have four angels. After losing the fourth baby in late May, I knew that something wasn't right. So, I sat through countless needlesticks and endless vials of blood for genetics testing.

What we learned explains quite a bit about me as a person, in addition to me as a baby incubator. I have a mutated gene. This mutation is a clotting disorder and, when coupled with other genetic markers, causes fetile demise and an increased risk for birth defects. Nourishment clots in my veins and never makes it to the baby. Anyone who has seen how I bruise extra easily can grasp the concept.

The good news is that we know. We have a plan/medication/shots regimen that should give me a running start at carrying another baby - if we choose to go down that road.

Now, the miracle? Ella Kate survived. Ella Kate lived in my overly inhospitable uterus, without the proper medication, without shots, without me even knowing anything was wrong. The only explanation is that my hormones were so strong when we lost Carson that there were enough in my system to somehow sustain EK.

Eventually, we might try to have another baby. I say might, but we probably will try. Whether it'll work, isn't up to us. So, please, don't ask me why we haven't had more children. We've tried. It just hasn't happened. I'm still trying to make peace with that. At the end of the day, all I can pray for is God's will to be done.

And the love of ponies begins...

2010-05-16T18:30:00.000-07:00

After battling a terrible tummy bug for a week, we almost didn't take EK to a pony-riding birthday party. She is now in love with ponies! She hasn't stopped talking about ponies since her first ride. Every day she asks to go for a ride. Richard is looking into area petting zoos.

Her first date. This young man jumped in the car with her. We didn't catch his name.

Ma'am, are you absolutely certain this steed is safe?

And she's off!

Again, please! Again!

Less than climactic, but here is a video of EK looking like a professional rider!

Pics from Easter

2010-04-20T09:19:00.000-07:00

The Pullen family had a string of bad news, so I wasn't exactly looking forward to celebrating Easter this year. But, our wonderful family, including aunts, uncles and cousins, pulled us out of our funk for a great day!

I'm Not Sure When It Happened,

2010-04-20T09:08:00.000-07:00

But EK suddenly became a big girl!

Cheesing with Titi Coco and Daddy

Learning to dress herself has had a few bumps in the road...

Singing her ABCs with GUSTO!

Going Once...Going Twice... Going Three Times...

2010-04-20T09:05:00.001-07:00

SOLD!

We finally sold our house in Atlanta. The deal was marred by realtor laziness, inefficiencies and tremendous mess-ups of epic proportions.

But, it's done. Finally. And we can finally, officially, move on to Tennessee. :)

The family that bought our house is great. They have a little boy, named Carson, who is the same age our little Carson would have been. I took that as a sign that everything worked out as it was meant to.

Recent Pictures and Goings On...

2010-03-16T23:34:00.000-07:00

Our household has been living up to our blog title recently. My sweet baby is cutting her last set of molars and you'd think there is a scene from Alien playing out in her mouth. True, I don't personally remember teething, but EK is milking it for all it's worth. Suddenly "Kate teeth hurt owww" when it's time to eat something other than chicken and french fries. :)

Needless to say, we really have been Pullen All Nighters lately. As evident by this 1:41 am blog post!

Here are pictures from the last few weeks. Enjoy!

Very happy to be eating her cereal.

How big is Ella Kate? "Kate BIG!"

Imagination Movers was particularly captivating in this rare still moment.

"Mommy, I'm ready to go ride!"

A scene from pretty much every morning.

Waiting on Poppi & Gigi to come visit.

She is very comfortable with that football. And she loves to give us a big Roll Tide. I'm just sayin'.

I adore her pink Ralph Lauren Polo velour track suit! It was a hand-me-down from a friend in Atlanta and EK totally rocks it. It just SCREAMS Puerto Rican Princess. And, yes, she has the booty to pull it off.

Reading a book to Penelope. Can't you tell she's riveted?

Procrastinating before bed. She's become a master of stall techniques.

Motherhood

2010-03-10T18:30:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking about motherhood lately. Something magical happens the second women hear their first born cry. We become protectors. We do everything possible to coax smiles. We live for our children.

Lately, I've been following the blog of a mother in Texas. Her little girl, Layla Grace, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma. She's chronicled her family's struggles through chemo, radiation, bone marrow transfusions and all the highs and lows in between. She dedicated every last second she had with her baby to fighting for her, comforting her and loving her.

Their story touched me deeply. Ella Kate is only two weeks younger than Layla Grace, so I saw so much of her in their blog. They have the same big blue eyes, use the same sippy cups and look adorable in their homemade tutus.

Layla Grace lost her battle with cancer yesterday.

While I know that God has a plan and a purpose for everything, I can't help but question why He would allow a innocent child to suffer. And, I don't know how a mother's heart can handle it.

Rest in peace, sweet angel.

Awww... NUTS!

2010-02-06T18:16:00.000-08:00

In December, we found out that Ella Kate is allergic to peanuts. Driving down I-65 at night, I looked back to find her eyes swollen shut and one side of her lip swollen to kingdom come. That was our first real parenting panic. We stopped at a gas station at Exit 22, crushed an adult Benadryl and forced it down her. I've never sang The Wheels On The Bus so loudly and so energetically in my life. We were doing everything we could to keep her awake.

Fast forward two weeks: we get her blood tests back from the allergist. Most people with peanut allergies will react to them when their blood test results are .35. Ella Kate's result was 50. Yes, that 5-0. And tied for the highest our doctor has ever seen - in 20+ years.

I didn't realize how extremely lucky we were that night on the Interstate. She could have easily drifted off to sleep and stopped breathing. She was very quiet, but something made me look back at her. I'm terrified to think about what wouldn't happened if I didn't. If that's not proof that we have angels watching out for us, I don't know what is. We definitely had divine assistance that night.

The good news is that we know. It'll be a daily battle outside of our peanut-free house, but we at least know what we're battling.

Sure Sign That EK's No Longer A Baby

2010-02-01T09:30:00.000-08:00

As soon as she walked in her classroom this morning, she looked at Richard and told him she wanted to draw with her friends. She walked over to the table, pulled her chair out, sat down, and said hello to two other girls.

One of the girls handed her a green crayon, EK signed thank you, smiled, and started drawing.

Only a big girl would so easily interact with her peers. She definitely becoming a little person.

A Very Important Milestone That I Forgot To Blog About...

2010-01-31T17:36:00.000-08:00

Richard's offically an MBA! He finished classes last summer, but went through his graduation ceremony in December. We're all ridiculously proud of him - going to school full time while working full time, too. It wasn't easy (for any of us), but it's a huge accomplishment!

So, now, if anyone in or around the Nashville area is looking for a new MBA in International Business and Organizational Management with a BA in Communications and Information Sciences, you know how to reach me. :)

Awaiting the graduate luncheon. Yes, all the graduates really ate in their regalia.

In the graduation line. That's Richard calling his shot.

Two and a half years, $20,000, and lots of hard work lead up this exact moment...

The good news is that as of next month, OUR MBA will be officially paid for. Now we just need to tackle his undergraduate loan...

What Will You Do At School Tomorrow?

2010-01-31T17:28:00.000-08:00

25 months is an interesting age. Ella Kate understands so much and wants to communicate ideas more sophisticated than her vocabulary will let her. But, she always manages to get her point across somehow.

Tonight, while reading a book, I asked her what she planned to do at school tomorrow. She quickly rattled off a timeline of her day:
1. Friends - they sing a welcome song in the morning and say hi to their friends
2. Play - they have either indoor or outdoor play time, depending on the weater
3. Eat - snacks and lunch
4. Night Night - nap time
5. Walk - they take a walk throughout the building and "explore" what the other classes are doing. I think this is a GREAT idea so they get to meet all of the teachers.
6. Babies - during their walks, they go and "read" books to the baby class. Easily EK's favorite part of the day
7. Daddy! - When Daddy comes to pick her up.

I was especially impressed that she got them all in that order. What can I say? She's a creature of habit like her Mommy!

Two Months?!?!

2010-01-29T16:52:00.000-08:00

I'm quite embarassed that I haven't had time to post anything new since November 2. I've tried handing over blogging responsibilities to Richard, but that obviously hasn't gone well. :)

Ordinarily, I'd try to catch you all up on the latest Lowery-Pullen goings on. But, being a mom to a toddler, I fully realize you all just want pictures of her. So, here they are!

We can't believe it, but sweet EK turned 2 on 12/10. I don't know where the time has gone!

Who knew that one of Christmas' biggest hits would be a plastic spoon to feed her dolls. This is EK loving on her spoon.

Where are the rest of my gifts to open, Gigi?

All tuckered out after many busy Christmas celebrations.

Visiting Poppi's farm. He always has animals around to play with. This is a baby fainting goat. He also trained the adult goats to come up and eat out of EK's hands. She loved it!

She decided that the dog on that stocking was always thirsty. He often got the first sips of her juice or milk.

Her usual stance - glued to Elmo on Gigi's television.

She loved all of Gigi's Santa ornaments. She's giving Santa her best CHEESE face.

Playing with her table and chairs from Poppi and Gigi. She also loves her new play kitchen from Santa. She loves dumping all of the food and utensils in the floor for Mommy and Daddy to clean up.

An UNusual moment of stillness. We don't often get portrait style pictures of her - she moves way too fast.

Coloring with one of her best friends - Pedro the Bear.

Pumpkin Patch, Take 2

2009-11-02T14:57:00.000-08:00

For those of you who are blog regulars, you remember last year's Pumpkin Patch debacle. Major meltdown at the patch, which continued in the car ride home. We had high hopes that this was our year. We had such grand visions of our happy family, Titi Ica in tow, frolicking through the Pumpkin Patch, only this year EK would be old enough to enjoy it...

Yeah right.

She had other plans. They included running wild through the fields and throwing rocks as well as tantrums.

Excited to be in a Pumpkin Patch. Smiling and following directions.

Thrilled with her prize, until she noticed the back side was completely rotten.

Still being good, but her attention span is waning. She was not happy with the truck of pumpkins since we wouldn't let her throw the pumpkins on the ground.

And she's off!

With all of the activities, food and treats at the Pumpkin Patch, Miss Sassafrass would rather play with rocks. That's my girl.

Happy Halloween

2009-11-02T14:34:00.000-08:00

Since my 22-month-old little girl is the size of a three year old, cute and cuddly Halloween costumes aren't as easy to find. We opted for a 50s girl, complete with poodle skirt and cateye glasses. She looks so much like my Mimmie in her glasses! It's only fitting, since we named EK after her. Enjoy. :)

Month in Review

2009-11-02T14:17:00.000-08:00

I've recently come under intense pressure to get this blog updated with recent pictures of Miss Sassafrass. Admittedly, our lives are bit more hectic now. My new company brings more work hours and Ella Kate demands much more attention. But, that's no excuse for keeping our little girl's preciousness from the world.

Without further adieu:

Recent pictures

2009-10-06T11:20:00.001-07:00

REUNION!

2009-09-15T14:51:00.000-07:00

It finally happened! The Lowery-Pullen family is back together, under one roof, with furniture! I can't tell you what a great feeling it is to be in one place, to meet for lunch, to snuggle with Ella Kate before leaving for work, to eat dinner together, to come home to so much love! My heart is so happy.

I'll focus on taking a few photos of EK in our rented Nashville accomodations. This blog is in serious need of new pictures!

Say It Isn't So...

2009-08-28T12:50:00.000-07:00

I found a gray hair last. Actually, that's not quite accurate, I found several gray hairs last night.

I turned 30 a mere 14 days ago.

Here's my list of probable causes, because I still feel 22, and it can't be age:
1. Being away from EK, Richard, P&P
2. Washing my hair in hard hotel water
3. Stress of starting a new job
4. Eating "out" every meal without my usual nod to veggies
5. Driving 200+ miles every weekend
6. Living "dangerously" in hotels around the Nashville airport

No matter the cause, I need to find some Nice N Easy, stat.

Cheeeeeeeese Face

2009-08-13T18:59:00.000-07:00

20 Months!

2009-08-09T19:52:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow Ella Kate turns 20 months old. I'm overly sensitive since this will be the first "birthday" I've been away from her. Hopefully it'll be the last.

She has blossomed the last month she's been at Poppi and Gigi's house. Her vocabulary expands daily and she definitely has no trouble getting her point across. She's an excellent mimic and loves to snuggle with her family, the animals, her toys, her food, books and her bath water. We're really having to work on NOT snuggle-loving bath water. It could get dangerous. She doesn't seem to mind a mouth full of water, though.

When you ask her about her favorite letters, Mr. M gets top billing. Mr. T is next with Mr. N a close third. She knows their sounds and asks to watch Letterpeople videos every half hour. She's nothing if not persistent.

When in Decatur, I'm too busy cuddling to take any pictures, but will update the blog with updates as soon as I can!

An open letter to family and friends...

2009-08-09T19:44:00.000-07:00

To our family and friends:

The Pullens are aware that we've been terrible friends. We are in hunker-down mode, just trying to survive living apart for a few more weeks. We aren't drowning, but Richard and I are focusing on swimming parallel to the shore - keeping our heads out of the water and bodies above the rip tide.

On a bright note - September first is our reunion date. We've found a house to rent in Franklin and we'll all be together in the same state. We might not have furniture since we need to leave our for-sale house staged, but we'll be together in sleeping bags and pack n' plays. Just in time for football season.

So, if you haven't heard from us, we still love you all! Life is just a bit odd right now. We'll reconnect soon. I promise.

Love and miss,
Richard, Allison, Ella Kate, Piper & Penelope

Georgia's On Our Minds

2009-07-18T19:14:00.000-07:00

After a week in Colorado Springs for work, I picked up EK in Alabama and headed back to Atlanta for two days. Our realtor scheduled an open house for Sunday, so EK had to be sure the house was spotless, of course.

Nina and Titi Ica came to visit and we all had a great time watching Elmo and eating Chinese food.

Tomorrow, EK and I are meeting Poppi and Gigi in Franklin, TN for the baby drop off. Then I'm off to another week at work and EK is off to another week of playing and meeting the Letterpeople.

I don't have any new photos of this weekend - we've been way too busy. But here's a blast from the past. I miss those two lonely teeth!

One Week Down

2009-07-10T19:16:00.000-07:00

Ella Kate has been hanging out with Poppi, Gigi and Sara for a week and all is great in her world!

Aunt Sara has a goal of teaching her one new thing each day - and this day was the letter "F" and his funny feet.

Monday Morning: 1:54am

2009-06-29T15:40:00.000-07:00

House is quiet. Mommy, Daddy, Piper and Penelope are sleeping. Out of nowhere:

EK: MAMA! MAMA! MAMA!

Allison groggily hobbles into EK's room.

Allison: What's wrong baby?

EK: Me's belly button! Pulling up her nightgown and pointing to her belly button.

Allison: Yes, you have a belly button. Now it's time to go back to sleep.

EK: Shaking her head "no" wildly. Mama's belly button! Pulling up my shirt to look for my sleepy naval.

Allison: Yes, Mama has a belly button, too.

EK: Walking over to Pedro, the 5-ft tall stuffed teddy bear. Dro's belly button.

*** Conversation shortened by two hours ***

4am, EK has enough belly button chatter and finally goes to sleep.

18 Months and Counting...

2009-06-19T20:15:00.001-07:00

Nashville Bound!

2009-06-14T19:16:00.001-07:00

Yes, it will be a logistical nightmare. Yes, we discussed it at length for weeks. Yes, the three of us will temporarily reside in three different states.

But it feels right!

I start a brand-new job in Nashville on July 6. Richard will continue working and finishing up school. Ella Kate will hang out with Poppi, Gigi and Sara for a few weeks until the dust settles. She wouldn't like hotel living.

I'm so thankful for Richard, who understands my obsessive-compulsive desire to
A) be successful in my career, and
B) love that career and feel like what I do matters.

Even if that means picking up and moving to another state. A state famous for the type of music he hates most. That is swimming with the color he hates most. That's love!

Wish us luck!

The price of victory is high, but so are the rewards. -Paul Bear Bryant

A Few Recent Pictures

2009-06-14T17:26:00.001-07:00

What's better than playing with toys? Playing IN toys.

Why we can't take our eyes off EK for a second. No, this isn't the first time she's jumped in the tub in her pjs.

Running = Sweating = Crazy Curls

Daddy - Daughter Bonding

Dear Diary

2009-06-03T03:16:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, June 3, 2009, 5:17am after a night of no sleep.

If I ever say that I want more kids, shoot me.

Proof That Laughter Is Contagious!

2009-05-26T18:20:00.000-07:00

The camera shakes because I'm laughing so hard I could hardly breathe. Our favorite part is when she notices how hard Richard and I are laughing and takes time out to make sure we're okay. Coco had to quit because she couldn't see from the tears in her eyes. This is the BEST part of parenthood.

Slippin' and Slidin'

2009-05-26T18:08:00.000-07:00

Mommy has been traveling quite a bit, which means I get to spend lots of time with Poppi and Gigi. Since I demand entertainment, they bought me a new slide! It's so much fun and doubles as a great seat for watching Barney.

Climbing the ladder is just as much fun as sliding.

WWWwwwhhhheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I found out that Mommy's socks help me slide faster.

HOORAY for Richard!

2009-05-13T09:50:00.000-07:00

Once again, the Pullen's resident overachiever brought home all A's in his MBA program!

Sure, it would have been nice if he could have taken a work sabbatical to focus solely on school, but he wasn't willing to ask his family to sacrifice the little luxuries. It seemed a nearly impossible venture two years ago, but he has excelled in every class, every semester. And, of course, he's excelled at being a husband and a father.

Only two more summer classes to go! Then he can take a break and only work a full-time job and be a dad. That's all. :)

Fun Friday Pics

2009-05-08T11:30:00.000-07:00

Nothing says Fun Friday like a dip in the sink.

When Mommy wasn't looking, this happened. CURLS!

"I love babies, and this one is particularly cute and charming."

"Poppi, I know you are tired from the chemo. I'll sit beside you and be a sweet girl. IF, you will open these Cheerios for me."

Singing Twinkle Twinkle in Gigi's floor.

Ella Kate's Poppi Had A Farm. E-I-E-I-O

2009-05-08T11:10:00.001-07:00

This is our version of Old McDonald. On Poppi's farm, he has some cows, goats, bees, ants and rocks!

While we had grand visions of EK visiting the family farm, playing with the animals and running free, we quickly learned that a very sassy 16 month old isn't quite ready to listen to instructions with such excitement around. Something else Ella Kate's Poppi has on his farm? T-R-O-U-B-L-E. You might not know it from the pictures, but she was a nightmare toddler 98% of the time we were there.

And, after ignoring Mommy's 15 warnings about running on rocks, she enjoyed her first skinned knee. E-I-E-I-Ouch.

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T10:39:00.000-07:00

Fight For Your Right To P-O-T-T-Y!!!

2009-04-06T08:36:00.000-07:00

That's right, kids. A miracle occurred at our house today. At a mere 15 months old, our little Sassafrass went peepee in the potty.

Nina bought her a potty a few weeks ago and we've been slowly introducing it. EK thinks it is a great place to read books, enjoys picking it up and taking it into other rooms - or throwing it in the bathtub. But today, she figured out what it's really meant for.

While Richard was getting ready for her bath, he told a naked little girl to sit on her potty. She did. He told her to "go peepee." SHE DID!

Sure, it could have been a fluke, but she was very proud of herself. But not as proud as we are!

So it appears that we are entering the potty training world. She's an extremely smart little girl, but even more stubborn. We might be getting an early start, but it'll be a long, long, long road. :)

Early Easter Pics

2009-04-05T18:22:00.000-07:00

We went totwo Easter Egg hunts yesterday, which made for a cranky little girl toward the end of hunt #2. These pictures are from our neighborhood hunt. Ella Kate picked up the find eggs/put eggs in the basket/open eggs concept quickly! She loved opening the eggs and finding the goodies, even though she didn't get to eat any.

We didn't have Richard at the second hunt, so I didn't get any pictures of her there. She was a blur during the entire time - running around like a crazy girl. We officially need to play a zone defense. Man to man coverage no longer works!

Things I've learned in the last 15 months...

2009-04-04T16:57:00.000-07:00

1. All moms get frustrated, irritated and feel isolated at times. It comes with the territory. And while it sucks at the time, you have to try to remember to enjoy the moments when they're small and dependent on you. Lately, when I'm at my wit's end, I take EK's shoes off and admire her chubby feet. I adore her feet and that puts things back into perspective. And Xanax helps, too.

2. Handmade, homemade gifts are extra, extra special. It's much easier to run to the store and pick up a toy than to create something yourself. (I'm speaking for people who have steady paychecks, which I currently do not.) I've learned that time is a much more precious commodity than money when you're a mommy. If a fellow mommy puts time and effort into making a gift, it's extraordinary in my eyes.

3. There will be times that you look back fondly on life before kids. Sleep, shopping, being able to leave the house without three extra bags. That's normal.

4. Even if you have a fantastic child, she can't be perfect all the time. That would go against nature. EK proved that for me at our second egg hunt of the day.

5. A zone defense is the best defense against a toddler. Unless you are an all-star, skip the man-to-man coverage until you can reason with your kids. Ella Kate is a smart offensive player and knows my weaknesses. She makes her moves when I'm distracted and am then two steps behind her while she's heading to the goal. I need Richard around to protect the basket and level the playing field.

6. A strong support system is critical. Parents without a 24-hour family hotline must feel lost. I don't know what we'd do without our family on stand by.

7. The requirements as to what qualifies a "clean" house change after your kids arrive. I was a neat freak before EK joined us. Now, by the time I get her in bed, I have time to do the dishes, smock a dress, pick up her whirlwind from the day and take a shower before I crash into bed. Anything other special cleaning requires planning and someone else to keep her entertained.

8. Good intentions don't equal what will actually happen. I said that EK wasn't going to watch TV, drink juice, or have a pacifier. 0 for 3.

9. Planning is the single most important part of leaving the house. I have an extra bag, always in the closet by the garage, that I can put extra diapers, bibs, spoons, shoes and clothes in. Decide not to take that bag, and we're almost guaranteed to have a catastrophe that will require finding the forgotten items or turning around and going home.

10. No matter how angry, down in the dumps, upset, lonely or aggitated I feel, one sweet smile and "Hey Mama" can melt my heart in an instant. EK knows exactly how to push my buttons, but she also knows how to make it all better. We are so much alike in so many ways and, truthfully, I'm secretly glad to have this time to spend with her.

Recent Pictures

2009-04-02T16:56:00.000-07:00

Life around the Pullen household has been hectic and downright depressing these days. But, with Miss Sassafrass around, who can resist taking time out to play? If you notice the backgrounds in the photos, it appears we are always in a state of playing.

Snuggling with Daddy. You can't see it, but be sure that if she's still, there's a book in her hand.

One of the happiest days ever. She decided that hairbows are great. Probably due to the attention she received. She prissed around Caleb's birthday party pointing at her head saying, "in hair."

Later that night, she needed a hairbow with her pjs, of course! Titi Ica helped her.

Like a duck to water! We are just now learning about the potty, but she thinks it a great place to catch up on her reading.

There is no doubt: Ella Kate inherited curly hair!

And huge blue eyes! Obviously from her grandmothers.

Taking a break from Barney and Friends.

Our perPETual babysitter, Penelope, just hanging out in case EK needs her help. Sometimes it's difficult to tell if she's just another stuffed animal.

NYC Without Ella Kate

2009-03-12T19:10:00.000-07:00

Richard and I took a "Spring Break" trip to New York City and froze our collective booties off. I use the term "spring" loosely. We walked around the city in -5 degree wind chills. It was a very good thing we left Ella Kate with Poppi and Gigi in Alabama. Hard-core New Yorkers had infants out in the weather, but there's no way we would have had OUR little girl out in that!

Anyway, we called to check on her at least three times a day. We were those parents who just can't let go.

Here are few pictures of our trip. So much fun!
Richard in Times Square with at least seven inches of snow - after much of it had melted!

We happened by the Museum of Sex, which was apparently featuring an animal husbandry exhibition. Oh, the things we learned about female elephants...

If you squint, you can see Richard pointing at one of the very sites where trillions of dollars went down the drain on Wall Street. See the steam rising from underground? I think that's where they are burning our cash.

When it was WAY too cold to be outside anymore, we retreated to a movie! We never get to go to movies together, so we had a date to see Benjamin Button.

We take a smooching shot on every trip.

While walking from Wall Street (at the very south of Manhattan) up to our hotel at Grand Central Station on 42nd, (at the north end of Manhattan --- it was a long walk) we passed the most beautiful park behind City Hall. Gas lights on street posts. We saw lots of neat things on our very cold walk.

At the museum of Natural History. Central Park is behind us and was beautiful covered in snow.

Richard loved the walrus. CuCuCachoo!

The only time Richard slowed down to look at the "pots and pans" as he called the ancient artifacts. He thought the pots and pans from his homeland were much more interesting. At least for five seconds.

What happens when the Pullens get stir crazy in a huge museum. Inappropriate artifact touching begins.

Waiting outside (freezing our tails off) waiting to go in to the Ed Sullivan theater to see 1. David Letterman, 2. Jason Segel, and 3. U2!!! The staff chose us to sit in the front row and be audience leaders. Really, that just means that I was literally 3 feet away from Bono. :) If you happened to watch Letterman the Friday U2 was on there, you could see us in the audience a few times. :)

Camera's Operational!

2009-02-22T17:40:00.000-08:00

Finally!

This past week was both fun-filled and adventurous. We visited Poppi and Gigi in Decatur and Ella Kate was into EVERYTHING. I've never met a busier toddler. Here's a quick look at our action-packed days:

Loving on Nina. Doesn't Nina's hair look fantastic!?!?!

Posing with her new cow friend, Daisy. Poppi keeps Ella Kate in very large farm animals.

Ella Kate is completely a Poppi's girl. She'd wake up from naps asking for Poppi and run through the house calling for him. They were taking a break from reading books.

Can't find Ella Kate? Check Poppi's lap!

We went to visit Ms. Jess, Ella Kate's hilarious godbrother, Moseley, and the Garrison's newest addition, Mr. Chambers! Ella Kate sharing her newest "cheese" face and funny Mose.

Chambers' debut on the Lowery-Pullen blog. He's such a happy baby! And really, could those cheeks be any cuter?

The absolute sweetest picture of the week. Poppi's nurses and office staff wore head scarves in preparation of his hair falling out from chemo treatments. (Only the brown fell out - the gray hair is hanging in there!) They also wear camouflage scrubs every Thursday since that's the day Poppi works in that office. I love these ladies!

One of her favorite pastimes: taking bottles out of the refrigerator door and lining them up on the floor. At least she likes putting them back on the shelves. Proof that obsessive-compulsive personalities run in families.

Our budding Mozart. I'm teaching her how to play the Sesame Street theme song.

Camera Is Still Broken

2009-02-09T19:24:00.003-08:00

So I present this, one of the funniest - and saddest - media clips of the election.

I'm officially one of the 585,000 Disenfranchised Americans who lost their jobs in January (well kinda). I'm waiting on President Obama to knock on my door to save me.

I'll happily report back after I've invited him inside for a cup of coffee and to play with Ella Kate. I'm sure you're all interested to know what plans he has to save the Pullen family.

2009-02-02T15:59:00.001-08:00

I know, I know. I haven't updated the blog in quite a while. I'll blame my lame-o camera for dying and demanding that I send it back to Canon for service. And, I've been on the road quite a bit lately, which doesn't lend itself to toddler photography.

Here are a few photos in commemoration of this, Pullen All Nighters' 100th post:

Agents of Change

2009-01-18T19:00:00.000-08:00

As much as Richard and I claim to appreciate stability, we seem to embrace anything new, exciting or downright scary. In four short years, we've:
* Married
* Moved across the country twice
* Changed jobs four times
* Adopted two dogs
* Bought a house
* Started business school
* Mourned two lost pregnancies
* Welcomed a beautiful baby girl

Now it appears that more change is on the horizon. And no, I'm not pregnant.

Every now and then something happens that makes you pause and take stock of where you are in life. Stay tuned, folks. The Pullens are mixing it up again. Whatever happens will be new, exciting or downright scary!

Live From Atlanta! By: Ella Kate

2009-01-10T19:18:00.000-08:00

My Daddy has a really cool job. He works in the city at a television station. I'm not bragging, but being his little girl comes with a few perks. I went to work with him today and pretended to be a news anchor and a weather person! I might have found my calling - I already love to talk.

This is Daddy's control room. It was neat, but I really wanted to go into the studio!

Me and Daddy sitting at the anchor's desk.

Checking the AP wire for breaking stories. Watch out Ms. Stephany - I feel right at home in your chair!

Looks like Rome is in for a clear, cool night.

I could get used to this TV business. The camera loves me!

Finishing Christmas

2009-01-10T19:11:00.000-08:00

As Gigi's side of the family continues to grow, we seem to celebrate Christmas later and later each year. We had our holiday get-together in January this year at Grassy Park.

As government grows - we lose our individual liberties

2009-01-07T18:49:00.001-08:00

I promise I won't turn this into a political rant. But seriously, I learned that as of February 10, it will be illegal to buy or sell used children's gear, INCLUDING CLOTHES, that haven't been tested for lead.

Maybe I'm out of the loop and this has already made a big splash. But why isn't this plastered all over the news?

I understand limiting lead-based toys or out-of-date car seats, really I do. But in an economic downturn when families are scraping together money for food and rent, the government is going to take away consignment shops where families can get more clothing for their dollars? Does that really make sense?

Click here to read a more thorough article.

This is what happens when we move toward big government. For a Republican administration, the past 8 years have generated some legislative doozies.

Busy Weekend For Miss Sassafrass

2009-01-04T21:12:00.001-08:00

Ella Kate was a social butterfly this weekend. We logged many hours in the car in her new super-duper comfy Cadillac of Barcolounger car seats.

On New Year's Day, Lance, Pam, Lawrence and Annabelle came to visit us. Annabelle and Ella Kate were born a week apart and had a great time together. Although, EK really liked playing with Lawrence, too. He read her books and they climbed the stairs lots of time.

Everyone left our house at the same time and EK and Mommy hit the road Decatur bound. We visited with Poppi and Gigi and then went to the Mewbourn-family Holiday Get-Together on Saturday. Our generation is sprouting babies left and right, so EK had tons of playmates and attention. No nap ALL DAY until the car ride home. :) She was remarkably well behaved and wore her pretty dress all day long. It must be some sort of record!

Christmas Extravaganza

2008-12-27T20:50:00.001-08:00

Technically, 2008 was Ella Kate's second Christmas with us. But, considering she was two weeks old last year, we celebrated as if it was her first.

We had a busy, busy Christmas and Ella Kate and I didn't leave the house for three days! We all had colds, viruses and various tummy bugs, but we still Christmased merrily.

Since Richard needed to work, our families came to celebrate with us. Nina and Titi Coco spent Christmas Eve with us and woke up to see what all Santa brought. Poppi, Gigi & Sara came for lunch on Christmas Day and stayed for two nights.

Ella Kate received so many great gifts from Santa, family and friends. It's too much to mention, but she's certainly spoiled and I'm wondering where on Earth we're going to put her toys.

Here's a quick picture overload of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day:

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T22:04:00.000-08:00

As I type, we hear sleighbells and hoofsteps on the roof. Santa is busily making deliveries and I'm so excited to see Ella Kate's reaction to the excitement in the morning. This moment is part of what makes being a parent so wonderful.

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

XOXO,
Richard, Allison & Ella Kate

Santa Came Early!

2008-12-23T18:27:00.000-08:00

This morning our family received the best Christmas gift we could have ever imagined. Dad's recent tests indicate that his cancer is in remission!

He's still starting chemo in January, but at this point, chemo is a stong offense, rather than a defense. :)

After the ups and downs of this year - this is our Christmas Miracle.

Or Festivus Miracle, if you're more into poles. If so, feel free to use our blog to post your official Airing of Grievances. Feats Of Strength to follow...

Hallelujah! Thank you, God!

A+A+A+A= MBA (almost!)

2008-12-19T11:09:00.000-08:00

My over-achieving husband once again is proving he can do anything. ALL A's AGAIN THIS SEMESTER! We're all so proud of him. Only one and a half semesters to go until graduation. :D

As my mom always not-so-gently points out to me - his accomplishments in graduate school mean more than mine did. It's taken a while, but now I'll admit that it's true. All I had to focus on was school and teaching a few classes/managing a handful of work-study undergrads.

Richard is a full-time employee AND a full-time student at a top 10 MBA business school. In his spare time, he's an adoring father and a wonderful husband. He has so many balls in the air and still manages to excel at everything.

Ella Kate has a great role model - but will have large shoes to fill. Even with her big feet!

Party Girl!

2008-12-14T17:18:00.000-08:00

Ella Kate welcomed a houseful of friends and family to her first birthday party. She had such a great time playing with her friends - and her new toys! Here are a few pictures of the day. I have tons of pictures of our friends, but didn't want to post them without parent permissions. I'll send them out to our party guests soon!

Happy First Birthday, Ella Kate!

2008-12-10T06:23:00.001-08:00

I am beyond amazed that a full year has passed since Ella Kate joined our life. I cannot remember what life was like without our beautiful little lamb. She keeps us on our toes, but we're always entertained.

We love you, baby girl! I'm so proud of the wonderful little lady you already are, and can't wait to watch you grow into a caring, loving big girl.

XOXO,
Mommy and Daddy

My Last Week of Infancy, By Ella Kate

2008-12-09T17:58:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow I will be one year old. Apparently it's a big deal, because Mom has been stressing about it and wanting to hold me a lot. I tried telling her nicely that I'm not into that --- but had to resort to screaming to convince her to put. me. down.

One year ago tonight, I remember Mommy screaming and telling Daddy that he better decide that he wants to adopt any future children. Especially when the nurses turned off her epidural. I'm surprised I wasn't born deaf.

Mom and Dad have packed lots of adventures into the past week!

Last night we went to ride the Pink Pig at the mall. I know it sounds silly, and it is. It's an Atlanta holiday tradition of riding a pig roller coaster around a tent. I LOVED IT!

Mom got the camera out first thing this morning. She wouldn't even let me eat breakfast in peace. She's trying to capture my last moment as an infant. Age is just a number, Mommy!

For some reason, Mommy really wanted me to wear a cupcake birthday dress to school. I quickly told her, "no way!" If I couldn't crawl in it, I wasn't wearing it. I won the battle. This is pre-meltdown, but you can tell I'm not happy.

Today Mom and Dad surprised me with a birthday party at school! We had cupcakes and wore silly hats.

Me and my friends waiting for our cupcakes.

Everyone else was neat and proper with their cupcakes. What fun is that?

I love to throw balls for Piper and Penelope --- this is me in action. Mommy's teaching me to step into the throw for more power!

Ella Kate Joined the "Upwardly Mobile" Crowd

2008-12-06T19:52:00.000-08:00

A week and a half before her first birthday -- she's walking! She's still wobbly and falls down when her legs start moving too fast, but she's found another way to get from place to place.

I think we've created a monster. She'll take seven or eight steps, stop, clap for herself, then keep going. She hasn't yet figured out that she can walk farther than just from toy to toy, and I'm okay with that for now. ;)

I'm so proud of our little lady. And so very sad at the same time...

Aloha Titi Ica

2008-12-06T19:43:00.000-08:00

Josette (Titi Ica) has officially left Hawaii for a voluntary six-month assignment to Kabul, Afghanistan. When she returns, she'll start working for a prestigious government agency in Washington D.C. We'll be so glad to have her semi-near by.

We had lots of fun during her visit, although Ella Kate's curiosity wore her down quickly. Titi Ica isn't used to kids who ignore the word no and who are on-the-go 14 hours a day.

Titi Ica preparing the Pullen Girls' Gingerbread House

The complete gingerbread house. It was like a candy wonderland. I'd love to visit.

Titi Coco with Ella Kate --- and Julian the giraffe.

Coco, Ella Kate and Ica - in full effect and loving life.

A Week At Poppi & Gigi's House

2008-12-06T19:27:00.000-08:00

Ella Kate and I headed to Alabama for nine days over Thanksgiving. We had an absolutely wonderful time and had many, many adventures. She met Santa Claus and had pictures taken with him, took trips to the Decatur Wal-Mart, went to two family Thanksgiving get-togethers, drove to Birmingham for Moseley's birthday party, visited with Aunt Kari, Aunt Paige and Will, Iron Bowl celebrations, and she was the guest of honor at Poppi's office Thanksgiving lunch!

A few pictures from our visit.

Moseley's birthday party. Ella Kate had almost hit her threshold. We had already lost a shoe and had a mini-meltdown. Notice the vodka in the background? I was just about to put a splash in her bottle to put her to sleep.

The birthday boy!

In Gigi's kitchen waiting to go to Poppi's office lunch. She was the hit of the meal and kept everyone entertained.

Pointing at Barkley. She adores Bark Bark and talked to him all week long.

Playing shy at the Lowery-family Thanksgiving. It was the only time she's ever snuggled on my legs. I'll admit that I liked the attention!

Visiting Poppi and Gigi

2008-11-24T13:44:00.000-08:00

EK is putting on a show this week. From the minute we arrived in Decatur, she has talked to, loved and kissed her grandparents nonstop.

The first morning, Ella Kate crawled over to Gigi, asked to be picked up, kissed her face and said her version of I love you. I wouldn't have believed it had I not heard it myself. Needless to say, I've never gotten a un-requested I love you from her.

She's started talking in short sentences:
I need it.
See it?
Hi there!
I love you.
What's that?
Hey Bark Bark Woof Woof! (Her name for Barkley the dog)

And, she's saying their names with no problem. You haven't seen such happy Poppis and Gigis. :)

Wordless Wednesday

2008-11-19T20:28:00.001-08:00

Political Ramblings: The Auto Industry Needs A Visit From Dave Ramsey

2008-11-19T17:05:00.000-08:00

The heads of Detroit's "Big Three" automakers flew to Washington DC demanding a piece of the taxpayer bailout pie. They cried about how many jobs will be lost, how they've cut back operations, how their companies' failures will throw the economy in an even more steep spiral.

How did they get there? In a private jet. GM's guy alone paid $20,000 on the DC trip.

Seriously? That is what you call "cutting back?" What about a first class ticket for roughly $900?

They need a good kick in the financial pants. I'd be glad to help them workout a budget. I'm sure Dave Ramsey would have them in the black in no time. But, they might have to sacrifice, which is obviously out of their comfort zone.

If I were there, gentlemen, you would get NO bailout money. In fact, I would charge you for wasting my time and being such morons.

Roll Tide!

2008-11-13T09:23:00.000-08:00

This is not our video, we actually found it on YouTube. My sincere thanks to whoever posted it!

This was the final seconds of OT in the Bama/LSU game. I get chills everytime I watch it. I was at home, trying not to wake up EK, screaming "get your hands up!" to the referee - just like the guy in the video. The crowd reaction is beyond priceless.

ROLL TIDE ROLL!

Refrigerator Art

2008-11-13T08:13:00.001-08:00

Who would have guessed an 11-month-old can be such an artist? I know that she loves fingerpainting the table with her squash, but I'm so glad her teachers are putting her artistic inclinations to good use.

Last day of being 10 months old

2008-11-09T19:02:00.000-08:00

And she took her first two steps today! I think she's still a few weeks from full-on walking, but she's definitely on her way.

After I missed photos of her first steps, I chased her around all day with a camera. Here are a few highlights of an otherwise normal day.

She is adopting a favorite "toy" of the day and carrying it around everywhere. Today it was the baby monitor.

She knows that she's not *supposed* to have pacifiers anymore, so she's showing me that she has TWO of them.

Dinner time is always an adventure. She thinks Daddy is hilarious in these pictures.

On to month 11!

Run, Pullens, Run!

2008-11-08T09:12:00.000-08:00

And we did. Well, everyone except Ella Kate, who stayed home and played with Titi Coco.

In an effort to lose several pounds Ella Kate so thoughtfully gave me, I decided to start running races. I trained for months and suffered through sickness, injuries and general malaise.

It was all worth it today!

Richard and I ran in the Big Pumpkin Run 5K in Roswell. It was my first race, ever. After my last injury and other setbacks this week, I was dreading it. But, once I got there and saw runners of every shape and size, with all different goals, I was hooked. We both had a great run.

Richard ran the race in 26:23 minutes and I ran it in 33:01. The route was pure hills, so I was aiming for 12 minute miles plus time to get to the start and the extra .12 mile at the end. I beat my goal by 5+ minutes. (And, another goal - I didn't stop or walk AT. ALL. Trust me, that's huge to me when thinking about the hills.)

Richard is a born runner, so he just ran to enjoy the scenery and support me. Although, he was thrilled with the race t-shirt they gave us.

We didn't take pictures there, because we'd then have to run with a camera. But, we were so pumped by the time we got home we took a few photos in the front yard.

Change

2008-11-05T07:04:00.000-08:00

Our little family did not vote for Obama. We think that we'd like him as a person, but disagree wholehearedly with his ideology. And that's what great about America, we don't have to agree. Which is a very good thing.

But, we do agree that we like a number of changes in the overall national view:

1. Ella Kate, who is half latina, will never wonder if a minority can be president.
2. A woman was part of a major ticket, with an actual chance to win.
3. We will once again have small children in the White House. I cannot wait to see photos of the girls playing with their new puppy in the rose garden. That's what life is about.
4. Obama's charisma will be refreshing, and something we've seriously lacked the last 8 years.

Trick Or Treat?!?! Treat - Of Course!

2008-10-31T17:16:00.000-07:00

Ella Kate's first Halloween was quite an adventure! Daddy had to work, but Titi Coco came to hang out and help pass out candy. Ella Kate was an absolute angel, save one meltdown when she realized she had to wear a hood as part of her costume. Check back soon for more videos!

Ella Kate dressed up as a pretty panda bear.

Have you ever seen a cuter panda bottom?

She spent at least five minutes watching neighbors walk past our house on the way to the neighborhood festival. She waved at them all as they passed.

We finally made it to the stroller, ready to walk to the festival. Suddenly, Ella Kate realized that her costume had a HOOD!

We walked about 200 feet and saw Titi Coco driving down the street.

One look at Coco and all was right in the world again. She adores her Aunt Edna!

We finally made it to the festival and what did we find?!?! Another animal from the zoo! Our neighbor, Simon, posed for pictures with us.

On the way home, we stopped by Ms. Kim's house for some trick-or-treating! She was loved and hugged and held for 15 minutes. We told her not to expect that kind of attention at all the houses!

Her face cracks me up in this picture. It's almost as if she's wondering if Mom will actually let her eat that candy. (No, she won't!)

After the festival, all good little pandas had to munch on bamboo to regain their strength. There was lots of candy to give to other trick-or-treaters!

We spread a blanket on the front lawn to pass out candy. We had a space heater on the porch keeping us warm and cozy.

A quick night-time snuggle.

We proudly fly our Bama flag during football season, so the other Bama fans know exactly what to say to get extra candy! How did the dinosaurs become extinct if they were this smart?

(That's "Roll Tide Roll" under a hood.)

After a long day, with only one nap, it's time for night-night.

A Quick Update

2008-10-23T17:07:00.000-07:00

Things happen so quickly around here that I often don't remember to update the blog with Ella Kate's new goings-on. Here's a quick list:
* She moved up to the Crawlers' Room at daycare and LOVES IT!

* But, they only take one long nap, which isn't enough. I have Miss Crankypants when
I pick her up from school.

* She's eating all kinds of table food - and LOTS of it. We haven't found much she
won't eat. Today at school she had meatballs, corn and pineapple. What a
combination.

* She chases the dogs, stopping to wave at them and say "Guh, guh." I'm guessing
that means "dog."

Hair Watch 2008

2008-10-22T06:24:00.001-07:00

Watching the presidential election is not nearly as exciting as Hair Watch 2008. Family and friends wonder if Ella Kate's hair will come in straight or curly? Fuzzy or frizzy?

Ella Kate's mom, Allison Lowery Pullen, says, "Frankly, we're happy to have any hair at all at this point. There were many months of no hair bows."

Richard Pullen adds, "To date, with what little information we have to work with, it appears we have a mix of straight and curly. It's straight in the front and curling around her ears. The very back is beginning to look like my Puerto Rican hair - frizzy."

Stay tuned for more breaking news as it develops...

She Won't Stop Talking!

2008-10-21T07:12:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to teach Ella Kate sign language. We've chosen the first few signs and work on them everyday. The problem is that if she wants more, she just looks at me and says more. No signing involved. She wants a bottle? She says bottle. We're still working on it, but she picks up the word much faster than the sign.

When we're at home alone at night, I talk to her to keep myself going crazy. I talk to her constantly. I guess she's just picking it up early. Or, she really wants me to stop talking so she's learning to talk back.

Everyday she surprises me few new words. Last night we had a mini conversation.
- She crawled into the office calling for me - "MAMA!"
- She saw me, sat up, waved at me and said, "Hi!"
- She crawled over to me, clibmed my leg and said, "up."
- I asked her if she wanted to go night night, and she pointed toward her crib and said, "nightnight."

Really? Already? I need her to be a baby for a while longer. Ten months old IS still a baby, right?

What Does A Puppy Dog Say?

2008-10-16T15:37:00.000-07:00

If you're curious, cows say MMMMMMMMMM and Piper says Woof Woof.

Pullens At The Pumpkin Patch, By Ella Kate

2008-10-13T13:01:00.001-07:00

Mommy and Daddy took me to pick out pumpkins last weekend. Truthfully, I didn't see what all the fuss was about. It was a long way away, I didn't feel well, and overall I wasn't too impressed. Mommy wouldn't let me crawl around and explore, which ruined the trip for me.

All dressed up and ready to go!

Why did Mommy dress me up like a pumpkin?

I really wanted to crawl and eat the sawdust!

I'm a funny girl!

Daddy helped me pick out our pumpkin.

I'm trying to tell them that I'm done with this pumpkin patch business.

Hey, I wanred them. They took too, too long. They deserved this.

Happy Fall Y'all

2008-10-09T19:27:00.001-07:00

Since the weather finally turned cooler, EK and I have been having so much fun outside. We stroll around the neighborhood, touch trees, pull up blades of grass, "talk to" Piper and Penelope in the backyard, etc. She loves being outside. Here are a few pictures of her in her autumn attire.

EK in her farm dress. Can you tell it's very early in the morning? We bought this one for her Poppi in honor of his farm, Cottonwood at Huckaby Hollows. :)

Now that she's crawling, dresses aren't that practical anymore. I'm always looking for adorable playsets. This one is precious AND functional. A mom can't ask for more.

The Fruit Anniversary

2008-10-08T12:29:00.001-07:00

Today marks four years since I married the most amazing man on the planet. Richard knows absolutely everything about me, and loves me anyway. That's saying something!

Apparently the traditional gift for a fourth anniversary is fruit. Sounds strange, but it's cheaper than jewelry.

Happy anniversary, Higgins! I can't imagine my life without you.

9-Month Photo Shoot

2008-10-07T13:33:00.000-07:00

Due to popular demand, here are a few selections from Ella Kate's 9-month portraits. I'm putting together a movie with more, but these can serve as a teaser. :)

Notice her tongue. At least half of the pictures have her tongue sticking out. Ordinarily, this would drive me crazy. But, that really is how she looks these days, so I'm considering it a moment frozen in time...

Sweet Home Alabama

2008-10-07T13:27:00.000-07:00

My fellow Alabamians:

Those of you who live in/around Huntsville. How do you run errands? Richard and I looked at neighborhoods all over Madison County and were disappointed with the lack of immediate errand stores around the subdivision alleys. I absolutely must have a Target/Wal-Mart/Home Depot/Lowe's/Kroger etc within 5 minutes. Otherwise, you spend an hour just traveling to and from stores. Is this normal, or am I tremendously spoiled with our neighborhood?

With the massive growth in Mad Co, wouldn't you think the retailers would wise up and start building? If I'm going to live in an old cotton field, I need some retail outlets to keep me sane!

What We Learned This Weekend...

2008-09-28T21:49:00.000-07:00

1. Professionals commission fees for a reason. I realize why painters can charge mucho dinero for their services: it takes freakin' forever and is a messy business.

2. Ridiculous football gimmicks don't work. Blackout, Schmackout, Georgia! Roll Tide!

3. It's difficult to run errands with no gas, thanks to the massive fuel shortage in the southeast.

4. My daughter is much like me. Neither of us can be still for very long. Easily bored and equally demanding.

5. Even planning to move in a year is overly stressful.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-09-23T20:23:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday, Daddy!

2008-09-23T20:19:00.000-07:00

Richard happily turns 29 today. We're both officially pushing 30 now. Welcome to the club, sweetie!

Thankful For What Is...

2008-09-20T09:10:00.000-07:00

While this blog is dedicated to our life with Ella Kate, I think it's important to acknowledge that she is only with us because we have an angel baby. Today, would have been our angel's first birthday.

Everything happens for a reason, although I'm the first in line to complain when it's unpleasant. We have to trust that there is a greater design to our lives and that things will work out for the best.

It truly is a miracle that Ella Kate joined us as quickly as she did. Instead of having a 1 year old, we have a beautiful, smart, bubbly 9 month old. I learned a lot about life and myself in those short 3 months. Parents are rarely blessed with another pregnancy so quickly - and we were blessed with an extraordinary child.

So, today is bittersweet. I wonder about what could have been, but am so very thankful for what is.

Why We Love Daddy

2008-09-16T20:33:00.001-07:00

It's not a secret that working moms have a tough gig. I can attest to it. I often complain about being stretched too thin, but the truth is, I love it. I have the best of all worlds. But, during my complaining periods, my sweet husband listens, hugs me, and reminds me that things will slow down.

Ella Kate and I sometimes forget that Daddy is stretched even thinner. He works full time as a television director AND goes to school full time earning his MBA. And, he finds time for baths, playtime and to change a few diapers. He doesn't complain, arranges his study time around family time, and calls home a zillion times a day to check on us. In fact, just today he surprised me at work with a lunch date because he actually had two free hours. He drove 20 miles out of the way to take me to lunch.

That's what I call a SuperDad!

My New Favorite Photo

2008-09-16T20:17:00.001-07:00

Richard and Ella Kate have special bonding time during baths. I forget how fast she is these days. No sooner than I had her naked, she climbed up the side of the tub and was helping Daddy fill the bathtub. I think that this very moment hit me with the realization that Ella Kate is no longer an infant. She's a little person who is exploring her world with reckless abandon. I'm so very proud of our little family.

And, because I'm sure Richard won't be happy that I'm posting a picture of his backside to the Web, here's another picture from earlier in the night. Ella Kate looks a bit weirded out by the flash, but it's a rare moment with Daddy and all three girls.

9-Month Checkup

2008-09-15T18:54:00.000-07:00

Miss Sassafrass is officially happy, healthy and wise! She's actually lost weight since she sprints everywhere she goes.
Weight: 21.5 pounds
Height: 28.24 inches

I lost our friendly family wager. I guessed that she was 24 lbs, Richard said 22. He won.

She's officially pacifier free, which didn't go over well at naptime today. Although, she fell straight asleep for me tonight. But, to be fair, I did find a pacifier in her mouth when I checked on her two hours later. She must have stashed a paci under her crib bumpers in preparation for today. I let her keep it - just until our crib rail teething guard comes tomorrow. I have to think of the overall health of the crib. Without the paci, I fear it would look like a beaver attacked it.

We start table food tomorrow, which means she eats what we eat. Sadly, that's bad news for me since I now have to start cooking.

She's ahead of her intelligence milestones - she can consistently say almost 10 words, when she's really only supposed to know about two. That's my girl. A little talker.

Where did the last 9 months go?

2008-09-11T20:33:00.000-07:00

And why didn't they take at least 20 of my unwanted "baby" pounds with them?

Happy 9-month birthday Ella Kate (one day late). You make Mommy so proud!

Penelope Pullen, Our PerPETual babysitter

2008-09-09T18:12:00.001-07:00

If you have ever been bored and scrolled through photographs taken in our house, you probably noticed one sweet addition many Ella Kate shots: Miss Penelope.

From the moment we brought EK home, Penelope has been her little dog. Tummy time? Penelope laid beside her on the edge of the playmat. She loves for Ella Kate to tug on her ears, she thinks she's being petted. She walks along beside EK as she crawls. She always just in the periphery - ready in the event the baby needs her.

Penelope has the absolute sweetest personality and loves her people. Ella Kate is lucky to get to grow up with such a loving, protective guardian. Piper likes the baby, too, but isn't quite so free-flowing with her love. :)

Week 3: The first time she jumped on the furniture was to sit beside Ella Kate. You can see the baby's arm - kinda.

The baby's crying - she goes over to try to calm her down.

Laying just beyond the playmat. When I wasn't looking, I'd find her trying to snuggle next to Ella Kate. After a few spankings, she remembered to lay just off the mat.

Reaching in for the ear grab. You'd think Penelope would run away. She never has.

Mom's not looking, she'll steal a quick kiss.

Just in case Ella Kate needs her and Mr. Moo decides to attack. - she's there.

Roll Tide, Baby

2008-09-03T15:40:00.000-07:00

Ella Kate is Bama's lucky charm. She's been in the outside world for two games, and we are 2-0.

This past weekend was TONS of fun at the Lowery-Pullen house. We had friends visiting from Birmingham and Charleston as well as Poppi, Gigi and Aunt Sara for the Bama/Clemson played in Atlanta.

Bama looked absolutely fantastic, which historically, has proven to be the kiss of death for the rest of the season. But, this year we have Ella Kate for a full season.

A few pictures of revelry leading up to the game:

Ella Kate and Daddy before heading to school on Friday. Her playschool asked everyone to dress up in their favorite team gear. Ella Kate was more than representing in her Bama cheerleader outfit.

Ella Kate had two signs at ESPN GameDay: "Ella Kate says Roll Tide" and "Baby's First Bama Game." Had my big black marker not run out, she one had have another sign that read, "Baby's First Clemson Choke." It would have proven to be prophetic. The sign also doubled as a quick snack.

Daddy and Ella Kate while we wait on Corso to put the silly mascot on his head. He chose Clemson, so we knew things were looking up!

One thing we learned about the baby: she gets a huge red face when she gets hot! Just like her Mom, Gigi and Mimmie. :) She was a trooper during ESPN GameDay. I've never seen a more well-behaved little girl in such heat.

A crowd shot of some friends visiting for the game. Yes, two of them were Clemson fans. Leslie, Shaun, Brad looking oddly at the camera, Richard & Ella Kate

Ella Kate fell in love with Aunt Shannon (and her necklace!)

New Tricks

2008-08-27T20:03:00.001-07:00

We. Are. Crawling.

Everywhere.

And to think I was worried. Ella Kate is way ahead of schedule on intelligence milestones, but crawling was lagging. She's been inching along, scooting on her belly. At Mrs. Cheatham's funeral, she put it together and took off after a gentleman's newly shined shoes. Then, she tried to eat Decatur's Commissioner of Licenses' shoes, too. Crazy kid. Good thing she probably won't apply for her driver's license in Decatur.

She's pulling up on everything. She thinks that she can walk, but I keep telling her that 8 months is too early. Slow down. Be Mommy's baby for a while longer.

She's WAY off the charts for length and weight. She's much bigger than most of the babies in the next room up at school. She did NOT get that from her Mommy.

She has two teeth on the bottom that are the cutest thing ever!

She claps, pats the dogs, sings and screams "MAMA" when she needs something. (Never when she's happy, though!)

Each week she has a new strange trick. This past weekend, she continually sucked in her bottom lip like an old man. Her bottom lip was red for days.

Domestic Expert? Not Hardly.

2008-08-27T19:52:00.001-07:00

As you may recall, I posted a few months ago that I was learning to sew and smock children's clothes. Since then, I've been busily domesticating myself. The addition of a brand-new sewing machine for my birthday has sealed the deal.

I MADE A DRESS!

I'll pause a few moments for family and friends that knew me in high school/college to stop laughing.

Yes, it's true. I made Ella Kate a dress. Completely by myself.

And, I hand-smocked this dress with her monogram. I can't take credit for making this dress, though.

I hope my Mimmie is smiling down at me for even attempting something so very out of character. She was the queen of all things domestic, as is my mom. I think the genes were diluted by the time they got to me, but maybe I can perk them up a bit...

Eat Mor Chikin

2008-08-26T20:05:00.000-07:00

Poppi bought Ella Kate a HUGE stuffed cow, Mr. Moo, when she was only a few weeks old. She loves that cow. And yes, I get the irony of a cow being named Mr. Moo. Ms. Moo just didn't sound right and Mr. Moo is missing certain identifying equipment. We'll have the Mr. Moo/Ms. Moo chat when she's older.

At any rate, it looks as if her affinity for bovine transcends to popular advertising characters.

"This guy's pretty funny, Mom! Can he come home with us to meet Mr. Moo?

"Excuse me, please move your hoof. I'm trying to read your shirt. I believe you misspelled a few words."

Eternal Rest Grant Unto Her

2008-08-21T10:38:00.001-07:00

The Lowery Pullen family lost a great friend today. My parents' next-door neighbor of almost 20 years, Elizabeth Cheatham, suffered a burst brain aneurysm yesterday. She and a fellow college professor were chatting, when Mrs. Cheatham gently laid her head on the table. She never woke up.

I will miss her everyday. She adopted my family as her own. She remembered birthdays, took us to movies, baked cookies with us, helped us with Spanish homework, hosted engagement parties, cried with us when I lost our first child and enthusiastly celebrated our pregnancy with Ella Kate. She was a larger-than-life personality trapped in a petite 5-foot frame.

She is currently on life support until her family can travel from Peru. Please pray for her husband, Rex, and their son, Rex II. Losing someone, so young, with no warning, has to be one of the hardest trials to endure.

Her passing is a harsh reminder that our time here is limited. We never know what lies around the next corner. Whatever you are doing today - stop. Take time to call your family and friends and tell them how much you love them.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord.
And let perpetual light shine upon her.
May she rest in peace. Amen.

Official Mobility

2008-08-18T18:02:00.000-07:00

It finally clicked today. Ella Kate has been inchworming for a few weeks, but tonight she finally put it together to get some forward momentum. This video was taken early in the evening. She got faster and faster as the night progressed. I'm afraid that she'll be running by in the morning.

Fabulous Furbus Blog Stalkers

2008-08-17T21:00:00.000-07:00

It has come to my attention that Pullen All Nighters has a handful of regular blog stalkers that never leave comments. This is your official invitation to leave the protective, and somewhat anonymous, shield of the Web and join us! I know who you are now!

To entice comments from my Bama crew, I'm posting a few pictures of the Furbus Extravaganza Part II. Please note that I have three different incriminating videos as well, but decorum prevents posting on a family blog. :) If you are curious, I'll find a way to get them to you. Trust me, it's worth it.

The birthday boy and his beautiful bride.

Richard, Lucky and the birthday boy. This is Richard's standard go-to pose during a night out.

A shot of the luxurious Furbus interior.

The Famous Furbus Back Of The Bus'ers.

And, because this blog is dedicated to Ella Kate joining our family, here is a picture of Ella Kate snuggling with Mommy before the Furbus fun began. She stayed with Poppi, Gigi and Aunt SarSar. Mommy's just plain boring in comparison.

Happy 8 months, Ella Kate!

2008-08-11T07:34:00.000-07:00

Another month has flown by. Our baby turned 8 months old on Sunday, August 10th. Here are a few pictures I took on Sunday. She might kill me for a few of these when she gets older!

In Honor of the Olympics

2008-08-11T07:19:00.001-07:00

We took Ella Kate to Olympic Centennial Park in Atlanta for a fun family outing in relatively nice weather. She was an awesome trooper the whole day. She never fails to amaze me with her ability to handle new situations.

Getting her accustomed to wearing a hat before we left.

Leonard the big-eyed turtle goes everywhere with us!

Ella Kate loved playing with the grass. The only way we could get her to look up was to hold Leonard in the air.

"Daddy, let me go so I can pull up the grass and eat it!"

Mommy trying to steal kisses. EK wanted to play, not smooch.

Meeting Will

2008-08-06T14:36:00.001-07:00

Marty and Paige brought their big boy, Will, to meet Ella Kate a few weeks ago. Will wasn't so sure about his Mommy holding another baby, but loved the idea of climbing stairs. He is as cute as ever. I was smitten when we walked outside and he pointed out every bug and crawly thing on the sidewalk. Such a smart kid.

The first meeting. Will wanted to take a picture to remember the moment.

"Mom, hold me. Why is Aunt Allie chasing me with a camera?"

The forced introduction. Ella Kate loved the turtles on Will's jonjon. Will wasn't pleased with baby hands touching him.

Mommy's being silly and trying to get everyone to smile. It didn't work. Please note the look of confusion on Will's face. He thinks he is in a crazyhouse.

"Get me away from this crying baby!"