The Tallahassee Huffs

My Brest Friend Body Pillow giveaway.

2011-12-24T02:26:00.001-05:00

Mother Rising is doing a giveaway this month. Stop by her blog and enter a chance to win a My Brest Friend Body Pillow.

Gone Organic....I think

2011-09-06T15:44:00.012-04:00

About a month ago I was reading a friend's blog and she was talking about organic produce. She joined a buying club (Annie's Organic) and distributes discounted organic produce locally! It sounded good - no sign up fees & no commitment. The pics looked good. So, the TLH Huffs are giving it a shot. Leonard & I are always talking about eating healthier and we do keep fresh fruits and veggies around for the girls.

Today we picked up our first half share of organic produce. It included strawberries, bananas, red seedless grapes, oranges, flavor granade pluots (plum & apricot mixed), jumbo yellow onions, zucchini, tomatoes, baby spinach, broccoli, curly kale, & hass avocados. We're starting off with the half share bi-weekly for now. But the girls have already devoured a good portion of the fruit and Leonard is cooking up most of the veggies tonight in a quiche. So, we will probably be ordering another half share for next week or upgrading to a full share.

We have even turned this into a homeschool assignment for Hannah. She asked why we were buying our food from somebody's house instead of the grocery store. I explained to her that these fruits & veggies were special because they are organic. "What does that mean?" So, Banana will be doing some research and writing an essay on what organic means and why it's beneficial for good health.

Do you buy organic produce? If so, where?

Labor Day & Birth Stories......

2011-09-05T15:29:00.015-04:00

Today and all week local doula and blogger, Mother Rising, is asking Mammas to share our birth stories with each other "for our greater good." Of course, I couldn't pass up yet another opportunity to share Maggie's beautiful birth again! You can also read here why this L&D nurse chose a homebirth after two hospital births.

I have always said that reading other women's stories kept me inspired & encouraged during my pregnancy. Yet, my hope is that my daughters will read these same/similar stories one day and not be afraid of birth. So, to answer one of Lindsey's questions....What is my favorite moment? My favorite moment was when it was just me, Hannah, & Sarah (my daughters) alone in my bedroom awaiting our birthing dream team to arrive. They were the BEST doulas ever! And I remember thinking "this is how it's suppose to be."

From

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-31T18:32:00.001-04:00

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We are still here!

2011-08-26T13:17:00.013-04:00

The TLH Huffs are still here! Life has just kept us all so busy the past few months. Summer flew by so fast we didn't get to do so many things we had planned. But "it is what it is." One of my new mantras.

Hannah enjoyed a month with her Grandma in Detroit. I was sad to see her go, but sooo happy that she was able to have some quality time with her Grandma. Unfortunately, my Grandma Dear is not well and now needs 24h care. Hopefully, I will be able to go spend a few days with her next week. Since we are homeschooling again this year, the plan is to go visit at least once a month. It will given my Aunt & Uncle a break and give me some time with My Dear.

Yes, you heard correctly! It is official. The TLH Huffs have truly realized now that the public school system is just NOT for us. Sarah is starting Kindergarten and Hannah the 4th grade.....at HOME! We've been doing "a little of this & a little of that" since Monday. Yet, the official first day is September 6th! We are all excited and making plans for field trips, science projects, and arts/crafts. This week we learned a little about symbols and Florida history. So, the girls each had to draw a symbol for our "school." Will have to scan & post them later.

This week has been a busy busy one. The girls started another season of dance. It is Hannah's 7th & Sarah's 3rd. My Banana is now a member of the company...ABT Prepatory Level. The Performing Arts Center of Tallahassee is one of the two schools certified in the state of Florida. Hannah will be doing 7hrs of instruction a week (in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, & Acro/Tumbling), one hour of assisting a teacher with the little ones a week, and 2hrs of performance rehearsal a week. A busy bee she will be! Sarah is in her last year at the primary level & taking a Ballet/Tap class.

We ALL will be busy. I'll be too busy to tackle those last three courses to finish my BSN degree. New goal is to be done by Fall 2012. Still undecided about Midwifery school. Still patiently awaiting some sign. Well why I'm waiting, I have been blessed with the opportunity to be a contributing writer for a birth blog...The Mahogany Way Birth Cafe. The plan is to write one post a month. I'm really excited about this!

We are all excited about where life is taking us!

Wordless Wednesday - Lupus Awareness

2011-05-04T23:56:00.003-04:00

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Band Together for Lupus

2011-05-02T16:56:00.007-04:00

May is Lupus awareness month & this year's theme is "Band Together for Lupus." My fight with Lupus is a personal one. No, I do not have Lupus, but it has impacted me to my core. A day does not go by that I don't think of my mother's fight with Lupus that took her life too soon. She was only 47yrs old when she went home to be with our Lord after over a 15yr battle. I rejoice in that fact...the fact that she is home and free of pain. But I wont stop praying for a cure because it didn't find her in time. My family has been hit hard by this ugly disease. We've lost several family members and many more are still fighting today. I wear purple for my momma, my sisters, my daughters, my nieces & nephews, my cousins....for myself!!

"Birth Talk for Women of Color"

2011-04-29T16:35:00.004-04:00

A new blog for all women, The Mahogany Way Birth Cafe, recently had a call for birth stories. Of course, I submitted Maggie's birth story and it was chosen for the very first story! I still love sharing her birth and hope that it can inspire/encourage someone like the stories I read while I was pregnant.

If you enjoy the Mahogany Way Birth Cafe, you can check out Darcel blogging about life at The Mahogany Way. She has also set up a great on-line community for women to discuss everything from birth, breastfeeding, cloth diapers, and homeschooling.

Wordless Wednesday - Day @ St George

2011-04-27T12:46:00.003-04:00

Maggie is 1 !

2011-01-14T09:01:00.003-05:00

A year later & still sharing

2011-01-14T08:32:00.003-05:00

One year later and still sharing my story. Maggie was born just over a year ago and I love to share her story. Like I've previously mentioned, reading others' stories kept me inspired during my pregnancy and reiterated my faith in birth. I recently shared Maggie's birth story with indie birth. It's "intellectual fuel for free thinking mamas...."

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-15T16:08:00.002-05:00

Wordless Wednesday - Mariah's 7mos old!

2010-09-01T08:44:00.002-04:00

She is gone...

2010-08-04T11:56:00.005-04:00

Monday afternoon my family and I said "good-bye" to our Granny. Sitting in her service brought back many memories. Memories of my childhood with my Momma and sisters. I watched my Aunts cry for their mother and remembered my own pain. I wanted to let them know that it does indeed get "better"- whatever that means. I do think of my Momma daily and even cry for her often, but my nephew said it best. "Why are you crying? The doctors couldn't make her better. So, she is resting with God now." He was only five years old when he said those words, but the power of those words give me strength. I know she is gone, but now she gets to be with our Granny again.

She is gone

You can shed tears that she is gone
or you can smile because she has lived.

You can close your eyes and pray that she’ll come back
or you can open your eyes and see all she’s left.

Your heart can be empty because you can’t see her
or you can be full of the love you shared.

You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday
or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.

You can remember her and only that she’s gone
or you can cherish her memory and let it live on.

You can cry and close your mind,
be empty and turn your back
or you can do what she’d want:
smile, open your eyes, love and go on.

Mariah is 6 mos old!

2010-07-16T11:28:00.004-04:00

Wean Me Gently

2010-07-14T13:04:00.015-04:00

I came across a beautiful poem today on my midwife's facebook page. It stirred me so much that I cried and decided to share it.

Mariah turned 6mos old this past Sunday. After working all weekend, she & I had a rough night Monday. She is usually a very "easy" baby. She awakens about 3 times a night to nurse and usually just falls right back to sleep. I don't know what happened Monday, but it was not one of our usual nights. She woke up around midnight screaming. I tried to nurse her and she turned away and continued to scream. I tried the other side, but she did the same thing. Leonard got up and walked her around a little and then asked me to try again...nothing! She swatted at my breast, turned her head, and screamed. I felt helpless. I thought maybe she was in pain or something. So I stripped her down and checked her out....nothing! Maybe her gums were bothering her. So I tried to give her a piece of a frozen banana that she usually LOVES...nothing! About 45 minutes later, I asked Leonard to warm up a bottle for her (of breastmilk). He looked at me all crazy, but I didn't know what else to do. Needless to say, she sucked those 5oz down like she was starving & immediately drifted back off to sleep. I was happy that she was finally happy. But I was sad because I thought this was the beginning of the end. The end to our beautiful nursing relationship that not only nourished her, but me as well.

Wean Me Gently
by Cathy Cardall

I know I look so big to you,

Maybe I seem too big for the needs I have.

...But no matter how big we get,

We still have needs that are important to us.

I know that our relationship is growing and changing,

But I still need you.

I need your warmth and closeness,

Especially at the end of the day

When we snuggle up in bed.

Please don't get too busy for us to nurse.

I know you think I can be patient,

Or find something to take the place of a nursing;

A book, a glass of something,

But nothing can take your place when I need you.

Sometimes just cuddling with you,

Having you near me is enough.

I guess I am growing and becoming independent,

But please be there.

This bond we have is so strong and so important to me,

Please don't break it abruptly.

Wean me gently,

Because I am your mother,

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-14T11:11:00.003-04:00

His response to my NIP!

2010-07-09T13:54:00.005-04:00

Wednesday I did a post on Nursing in Public (NIP) for the Carnival of Nursing in Public. Less than an hour after posting it, I received a phone call from Leonard. This a loose version of that conversation:

L - Tanashia!
T - Yes, Leonard
L - Tanashia!
T - Yes!
L - I cannot believe you said that?!?!
T - What?
L - I am NOT embarrassed by you nursing in public.
T - I didn't say that you were, Leonard
L - But that's what you insinuated!
T - No, I stated that it makes you uncomfortable. If you don't agree, then write a response and I will post it
L - Ummmm, no. I just wanted you to know

Shortly after this phone call I received this e-mail from him:

"Tanashia, it's not that I am embarrassed when you nurse in public, I am
concerned that your breast is exposed and someone might see it. I
understand that you are nursing our child but I just don't want people
to see your breasts as if you were walking around topless. Your breasts
are for me and the baby not everyone else."

I truly appreciate Leonard verbalizing how it makes him feel and why. We later discussed my NIP a little further. I stand corrected that I did not choose to use my sling or cover when I nursed in the theater this past weekend. I just did not think about it. My mind was on feeding my baby & making her happy.

I also truly appreciate Leonard for supporting and encouraging me. Without his support, I would have never been able to nurse our babies.

Nursing in Public

2010-07-07T13:09:00.000-04:00

Welcome to the July 2010 Carnival of Nursing in Public

This post was written for inclusion in the Carnival of Nursing in Public hosted by Dionna and Paige at NursingFreedom.org. All week, July 5-9, we will be featuring articles and posts about nursing in public ("NIP").

**********

Nursing in public (NIP) has changed for me with each baby. My confidence has grown and I have mastered the use of a sling for discreet nursing. When I had Hannah nine years ago, I never noticed women nursing their babies in public. I didn’t even have sisters or friends at the time who had nursed their babies. I had not even thought about what I would do when the time came for me to nurse in public – just that I would feed her wherever & whenever!

I have one vivid memory of NIP. I was at a popular restaurant with Leonard, my sister, and her young son. Hannah was fussing and I knew she wanted to nurse. I kept trying to time it so that I could latch her on while our male server was away, but he wouldn’t stay away long enough. I gave in and latched her on while he took our order. I didn’t make eye contact with him or even look up until he left. I was covered with a baby blanket that Hannah continued to pull away. I looked up so see Leonard with a crazy expression all over his face. He was scoping the room like we were about to rob the place! I had thought about making the server uncomfortable, but had not even considered how Leonard felt. He said he was fine, but continued this behavior every time I nursed in public.

I am now strongly aware of how uncomfortable NIP makes him. So I use my cover or sling when we are out together. He still says that he isn’t uncomfortable – “My mom breastfed & I saw my aunts nurse my cousins.” Yet, just this past weekend he did the same thing while we were at the movies!

I feel bad – not really – that he is uncomfortable. I wish I understood why. But what’s important to me is that my girls realize that breastfeeding their baby isn’t something to be ashamed of. I pray that they learn from me, my great circle of nursing friends & their aunt the joy that breastfeeding brings to a mom and baby.

**********

Please join us all week, July 5-9, as we celebrate and support breastfeeding mothers. And visit NursingFreedom.org any time to connect with other breastfeeding supporters, learn more about your legal right to nurse in public, and read (and contribute!) articles about breastfeeding and N.I.P.

This post is just one of many being featured as part of the Carnival of Nursing in Public. Please visit our other writers each day of the Carnival. Click on the links below to see each day’s posts - new articles will be posted on the following days:

July 5 - Making Breastfeeding the Norm: Creating a Culture of Breastfeeding in a Hyper-Sexualized World

July 6 – Supporting Breastfeeding Mothers: the New, the Experienced, and the Mothers of More Than One Nursing Child

July 7 – Creating a Supportive Network: Your Stories and Celebrations of N.I.P.

July 8 – Breastfeeding: International and Religious Perspectives

July 9 – Your Legal Right to Nurse in Public, and How to Respond to Anyone Who Questions It

Wordless Wednesday - 4th of July

2010-07-07T11:27:00.003-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-01T13:07:00.002-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-02T15:40:00.002-04:00

Maggie's 3mos pics!

2010-05-04T16:57:00.004-04:00

Mariah had 3mos pictures taken by Elizabeth Paige a few weeks ago. Again, it was a great experience and we got tons of great pics! Sarah even had to jump in for a couple. She continues to nurse well & only awakens for two feedings at night. I'm estimating that she's about 14lbs...almost double her birth weight! She has adjusted well to Mommy being back at work. Now her big sisters have the opportunity to feed her and carry her around on their hips! She loves to smile, giggle, and listen to herself "talk."

This Black Woman Breastfeeds!

2010-04-20T13:09:00.000-04:00

I recently shared my breastfeeding story with Black Women Do Breastfeed. It's a new site that shares information and stories to encourage women to breastfeed. Unfortunately, recent studies have shown a decline in breastfeeding for all women despite its known benefits. Hopefully women will read these stories and be inspired.

Monday Moments

2010-04-19T13:24:00.000-04:00

One of Maggie's 3mos pics by

Elizabeth Paige Photography

Sarah playing dress up with her baby sis

A day at the park with special friends

Nap time for Sarah

Girls enjoying the sun!

Monday Moments

2010-04-12T17:42:00.001-04:00

Sisters together again!

Huff Family Easter 2010
At least one is always not happy!

My Maggie

Big smile for the camera

A HomeBirthin Labor & Delivery Nurse...that's me!

2010-04-09T09:47:00.005-04:00

12wks and 4 days ago I had the most profound experience that has forever changed my life. An experience that has renewed my love and passion for pregnancy & birth. An experience that reminded me of my childhood desires to "deliver babies." An experience that solidified my calling...the calling to be a Midwife that I've carried since I was 8yrs old! Yes, I believe that my Lord has placed a calling on my life to be "with women" during their pregnancies & birth.

As a child the only person that I knew who delivered babies was Dr. Heathcliff Huxtable from the Cosby Show..."push 'em out, shove 'em out, way out!" So, naively I thought I wanted to be an Obstetrician. I went off to college with the pursuit of caring the title MD. But the Lord showed me a different plan and being the obedient child that I am, I went to nursing school. There I learned about Midwifery & my soul stirred.

I sit at another crossroad in life. I have to go back to work tonight as a L&D nurse. My heart aches...aches to leave my new baby...aches to miss out on family time...aches to return to what medicine & science has done with God's perfect gift of birth. As my eyes fill with tears yet again, I am reminded of the encouraging words from a dear friend. This is my season...my time to be a Labor & Delivery nurse. My time to be with women in a different role.

So, tonight I return to work as a Homebirthin Labor & Delivery nurse. I realize that this season is starting to come to an end and it is indeed time to plan for my next role. The big question is Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) or Certified Professional Midwife (CPM)!?!?! I'm awaiting the Lord's Word.

Bring Birth Home

2010-04-05T12:15:00.003-04:00

I am so excited! Mariah's birth story has been posted onto the Bring Birth Home site. It's a great site full of stories & resources for women who choose to birth at home. I truly enjoyed reading birth stories when I was pregnant. They kept me inspired & are a true testament to the miracle of birth.

Monday Moments

2010-04-05T10:20:00.003-04:00

Keshia "wearing" Leah in Maya Wrap sling & Devin

Leah didn't want to get out!

Keshia, Leah, Me & Maggie, Sarah

Maggie's 1st trip to P'cola beach!

Monday Moments

2010-03-22T13:04:00.003-04:00

Family time @ Wakulla Springs

Mommy, Hannah, & Mariah

Hannah 'dippin' in

One guess who's not happy?
And why?

Sarah enjoying the flowers

Hannah wanting to dive in!

Cloth diaper journey

2010-03-16T17:52:00.001-04:00

What was I thinking? Cloth what? Yes, cloth diapers (CDs)! During my pregnancy Leonard & I decided that we would use cloth diapers for baby Maggie to save $$$$ & the environment. I did alot of research online, attended a CD class, and worked with a great local vendor (Jen Starks @ Ecological Babies). My initial stash consisted of several dozen pre-folds with Thirsties Duo covers, 2 bumGenius, a GroBaby starter pack, and one FuzziBunz. Jen suggested that I try out a few different ones so that I can choose which one works best for me & my baby. I am soooo glad that she recommended that. Initially I was sold on the bumGenius and was going to invest in several of those. Nine weeks into using my stash, I have a different opinion.

To say the least, this CD journey has not been completely smooth. We've had a couple of bumps in the road. First, Maggie developed a rash at 2wks. The only time I've had to deal with a diaper rash is when Hannah had massive diarrhea when she was about 12mos old. Why did Maggie have one now? So, this was a little discouraging at first. Unlike disposable diapers, common diaper rash ointments/creams cannot be used with CDs because they ruin the diaper. And I did NOT want to have to buy a disposable diaper. I immediately starting using a CD safe ointment called the Magic Stick. However, after a couple of days of using it, the rash appeared worse! I was ready to pull my hair out. I did what I didn't want to do and bought a pack of disposable diapers & Desitin. I continued to change her diaper every 2 hrs around the clock & slather her bottom with Desitin for a few more days with NO improvement. The Ped said it was yeast and prescribed Nyastatin & Triple Butt paste. So, after another week of disposables there was minimal improvement. Then I found a cure in Motherlove's Diaper Rash & Thrush ointment & it was ok to use with CDs! Actually, a friend recommended it & I should have used it from the beginning. It literally worked overnight!

Our second bump was figuring out the best way to wash the CDs. See, we have a front load HE washer that uses cups of water (not gallons) to wash. I knew that breastmilk poop was water soluble & did not have to be removed before washing. Yeah, that's true if you DON'T have a HE washer! I would go to remove the diapers from the washer & ALL of them would be covered in speckles of yellow seedy poop. Now what? I certainly wasn't going to buy another washing machine. The point here was to SAVE $$$! Then I remember one of my baby shower gifts....a bumGenius diaper sprayer. I finally figured out what cycles and how many with what temp to keep our stash "so fresh & so clean clean!"

In short what I have learned thus far:

U need the RIGHT detergent & the right amount (a very small amt)
CDs needs to be rinsed thoroughly of ALL detergent (I think this may have been the culprit to our rash)
Magic Stick is GREAT for preventing rash & treating mild flares
Motherlove is GREAT for preventing rash & treating aggressive flares
HE washers don't use enough water to dissolve breastmilk poop
A fleece liner is amazing at wicking moisture with a pre-fold

So, 9wks in & no regrets! Maggie is starting to sleep a little more at night & I'm trying to figure out the best diaper for night time. The jury is still out on my preference for the BEST diaper. Hands down, the pre-fold with cover is the most reliable....no blow outs or leaks yet!

Maggie's Monday Moments

2010-03-15T18:06:00.010-04:00

Napping with Hannah

Big smile for the camera

Dinner with Mommy in

Baby K'tan Carrier

Napping with Sarah

Maggie Moments

2010-02-28T15:44:00.002-05:00

Why a HomeBirth?

2010-02-25T13:47:00.002-05:00

I gave birth to my 3rd child at Home a little over 6wks ago. It was the most amazing experience…one that has changed me forever. With that said many family members, friends & peers question my choice. “Why?” I could simply answer, “why not?” However, I won’t. I want to share my “why.”

So, I choose to give birth to my baby girl at home because……

1. It was BEST for Mariah, me, and our family
(multiple studies have determined that low-risk women who have planned homebirths attended by a Midwife have better maternal & fetal outcomes than delivering in a hospital)

2. I wanted to!!!

3. My Grandmother did it 4 times!
(My Grandmother had 2 hospital births & 4 homebirths. I asked her why did she go to the hospital & she said “cause I didn’t know any better.”)

4. I wanted my girls present & did not want to be separated from them
(they would not have been allowed to spend the night with me in the hospital & Sarah would not have been happy about that! And I was worried that being in a hospital would scare them)

5. It was obviously more convenient for me & Leonard
(no running to the hospital while laboring, no awakening sleeping kids to get to hospital, no need to make arrangements for the kids for our 48hr post partum hospital stay)

6. I wanted to have more control

7. Privacy!

8. I didn’t want to worry about routine hospital policies & procedures

9. I didn’t want to be a L&D nurse having a baby. I wanted to be a woman giving birth to her child
(I found it very difficult to stop being a nurse with my previous births. I wanted to be a “good little” patient for my nurse)

10. I wanted to take back my right to birth how I choose
(I’m NOT saying my previous births were “bad”. It goes back to my control issues)

11. I wanted to sleep in my own bed
(I had the worst backache after my first 2 deliveries and I swear it was due to those uncomfortable hospital beds. I could never get comfortable)

12. I wanted my Baby Girl to sleep with me in our bed

13. I didn’t want to argue with the post partum nurses about co-sleeping and choosing to feed my baby when she wanted to eat
(I don’t wake my babies for feedings. I follow their cues and feed them when they want to eat)

14. I wanted the option to have a water birth
(the hospital has jetted tubs for comfort, but patients are not allowed to deliver in them & the aren’t large enough for my 5’11 frame!)

15. I wanted my girls to know that they too had a choice!

16. I have faith in God & what he created my body to do

17. I believe that birth is natural & doesn’t always require medical intervention

18. I wanted an unmedicated labor/birth

19. I wanted the freedom to do what I wanted when I wanted

20. Why the hell not?

With all that said, I do realize that ALL women should NOT deliver their babies at home. Unfortunately, some pregnancies do cause illness or have complications that medical intervention is necessary for a good outcome. By no means am I knocking my friends & peers who work with me in L&D and Mom-Baby. We are truly privileged to be a part of so many women’s births and have witnessed some amazing women birthing how they choose ("naturally", C-section, VBACs, with IV meds, & epidurals).

We did not make this decision lightly. Leonard & I researched the prospect of a home delivery in great deal before even deciding to have another child. I wanted to be certain of our decision even before needing to make it (again that control stuff). This is a quote I read & it just sums it all up for me. "To women who choose a home birth, it’s a risk worth taking. Birth is a very powerful experience. I felt that being at home allowed that process to unfold in the safest and best way for my body and my baby.”

Dr. Seuss for Nursing Moms

2010-02-19T10:37:00.006-05:00

I saw this on midwife's Facebook page this morning & fell in love with it. Thought I would share it . I do not know who wrote this but it is cute.....

Dr. Seuss for Nursing Moms

Would you nurse her in the park?
Would you nurse him in the dark?
Would you nurse him with a Boppy?
And when your boobs are feeling floppy?

I would nurse him in the park,
I would nurse her in the dark.
I’d nurse with or without a Boppy.
Floppy boobs will never stop me.

Can you nurse with your seat belt on?
Can you nurse from dusk till dawn?
Though she may pinch me, bite me, pull,
I will nurse her `till she’s full!

Can you nurse and make some soup?
Can you nurse and feed the group?
It makes her healthy strong and smart,
Mommy’s milk is the best start!

Would you nurse him at the game?
Would you nurse her in the rain?
In front of those who dare complain?
I would nurse him at the game.
I would nurse her in the rain.

As for those who protest lactation,
I have the perfect explanation.
Mommy’s milk is tailor made
It’s the perfect food, you need no aid.

Some may scoff and some may wriggle,
Avert their eyes or even giggle.
To those who can be cruel and rude,
Remind them breast’s the perfect food!

I would never scoff or giggle,
Roll my eyes or even wiggle!
I would not be so crass or crude,
I KNOW that this milk’s the perfect food!

We make the amount we need
The perfect temp for every feed.
There’s no compare to milk from breast-
The perfect food, above the rest.

Those sweet nursing smiles are oh so sweet,
Mommy’s milk is such a treat.
Human milk just can’t be beat.

I will nurse, in any case,
On the street or in your face.
I will not let my baby cry,
I’ll meet her needs, I’ll always try.
It’s not about what’s good for you,
It’s best for babies, through and through.

I will nurse her in my home,
I will nurse her when I roam.
Leave me be lads and ma’am.
I will nurse her, Mom I am.

Banana is 9yrs old!

2010-02-10T11:58:00.002-05:00

Hannah Banana turned 9yrs old yesterday! I cannot believe how fast these past 9yrs have gone by. When I hold Mariah & look into her little face, I can't help but to remember when Banana was that small. Her & Mariah are similar in some ways already...they both LOVE to nurse!

So, last night we enjoyed a "buffet" of Chinese, cake, & ice cream with the McCoy family at home. Hannah just could not decide on a restaurant. So, take out it was! She was blessed with some great gifts. Seems the Webkinz was the winner this year...she got three of them! She has really gotten into stuffed animals that become virtual pets on-line.

This past year has been quite full for Ms Hannah. She is still attending Imagine (a charter public school), but has already decided to stay home again next Fall! Dance continues to be her favorite after-school activity...Ballet II & Jazz II this year. She joined the school's chorus in the Fall and is still enjoying it. I'm looking forward to their Spring concert. Hopefully before the season is over, I can take her to a FSU women's basketball game. Want her to experience something new & perhaps she may want to play ;) She is already 5ft tall & growing!

Parenting with support....For My Leonard

2010-02-09T12:16:00.013-05:00

February 2010: Love and partners: How has a co-parent supported your dedication to natural parenting — or not?

Support: to sustain (a person, the mind, spirits, courage, etc.) under trial or affliction

To say the least, Leonard has ALWAYS supported me.
He actually was the one who suggested an out-of-hospital birth, no vaccines, co-sleeping, breastfeeding, and cloth diapers with our first daughter, nine years ago. Unfortunately, at the time I was a little more skeptical. Why? 1. My friends weren't doing those things...I didn't want to seem "crazy." 2. I had allowed my nursing training to persuade my decisions. 3. It's just not what my Momma & sisters did either. So, my first two girls were born in a hospital attended by great CNMs. We did co-sleep & my 9 y/o just recently ventured to her own bed. And of course I breastfed my girls. Both self weaned...Hannah at 13mos & Sarah at 16mos.

So, what was different this time around? I embraced what I wanted to do & what I knew was the BEST for me, my baby, & my family. Not only did Leonard continue to support me, but I also had the support of a few good friends....and that made a big difference for me. I wasn't so "crazy" after all.

With all that said...Leonard, I thank you for:

Always supporting me & respecting my dreams
Encouraging me to follow my instincts
Reading all those Bradley & Hypnobirthing books
Listening to birthing affirmations with me & allowing me to enjoy my "Peace Sanctuary"
Attending prenatal appointments with me & participating
Preparing our home for the birth of our Baby Girl
Setting up my birth pool & making sure the water was warm enough! ;)
Attending a cloth diapering class with me
Allowing Layla to teach you how to use a Maya Sling & letting me take your pic! ;)
Telling me how strong I was & how much you believed in me
Loving our girls & family
Giving up your weekends so that I can be home with our girls all week
Sharing your knowledge with me & the girls daily
Accepting my pregnancy & postpartum hormonal roller coasters
Standing by my side through it all

Leonard, I love you!

The Last 4wks

2010-02-07T11:50:00.006-05:00

The last 4wks have been overflowing with love, family, and friends.....tears, pain, sleepless nights & days, leaking breast, diaper rashes, baby wearing, co-sleeping, & cloth diapering dilemmas. Mariah arrived on Jan 11th and the TLH Huffs have been on a new adventure ever since. Yes, she is my third baby, but I've never had to take care of a new baby AND three other kids as well. I self proclaimed myself as seasoned and turned down multiple offers of help from friends. I will now admit that I should have taken up some of those offers! However, I am VERY grateful for all the dinners that were so lovingly prepared for us theses past 4wks. Big Thanks to Alicia, Laura, Cory, Suzee, JoAnne, Maria, Paige, Nancy, Sybil, Sharon, Tina, Kitty, Allison, Kendra, & Gibbler. We truly appreciate you all thinking of us! All of the meals were fabulous!

Mariah continues to nurse well and is growing like a weed. My best guess is that she is a little over 9lbs now. She looks like a totally different baby to me. I can see a little of me, Leonard, & the girls in her. She loves her Baby K'tan sling. She spends alot of time in it daily....allows me to get some things done around the house & spend some time with Sarah. I must say that she really is a "good baby." Only fusses when diaper changes take a little too long & when she's hungry. Honestly, I cannot complain about either of my baby girls...all three were "good babies."

Sarah has been in love with her baby sister since she was born. She has started copying everything that I do with Maggie...she made a sling for her baby & even nurses her when she thinks no one is looking! I need to get some pics of those. It's absolutely adorable and I am overjoyed that she is picking up on Attachment Parenting. I know she will be a good Mommy one day.

So, the next 4wks....I have 8wks left in my maternity leave & I'm hoping to spend some time reorganizing the house, planning for Summer break, working on finishing up my BSN, and preparing for another year of HomeSchooling. That's right! Hannah has declared that she wants to go back to homeschooling in the Fall. I'm actually quite excited about it. I have missed having her home with us.

Mariah's Birth Story in Pics

2010-01-29T20:53:00.005-05:00

Mariah's Birth Story

2010-01-29T19:54:00.007-05:00

January 11, 2010

This Monday started off like most Mondays for me. I got off work at 7am after working a 12hr night shift on L&D. The night wasn’t particularly busy. I had one delivery that I probably wont forget for awhile. The family was very supportive and helpful and one of the CNMs came in special for her. We talked off and on about my plans for a homebirth. The family was very amused by plans, but weren’t rude like so many others.

Well, when I got home Leonard had already taken the older kids (Hannah & Amari) to the bus stop. I noticed that I was feeling some contractions off/on, but nothing remarkable. They were noticeably “different” from previous Braxton Hicks (stronger & lower), but weren’t lasting long & very irregular. I ate breakfast (waffle & eggs) with Sarah in bed and we both layed down for a nap around 10a. She’s usually bursting at the seams with energy when I get home, but this morning she wanted to nap with me. And we did nap…until 2p!

On the drive to the bus stop to meet the kids, I noticed the “different” contractions again. I thought nothing of them because I was able to nap through them and they weren’t bothering me too much now. I scooped up the kids at 3p and headed back home. When we got home the kids went to play with a friend before doing homework. I took this opportunity to take a stroll around the neighborhood. It had been freezing cold for days & it was actually pretty nice out. Again, those “different” contractions were there. Yet, I could keep strolling right through them. When I got back home, the kids were still out. So, I layed down for awhile (until 430p). I then rallied the kids for homework.

We worked on homework until Leonard got home (a little after 6p). These “different” contractions were becoming a little more regular (maybe every 10min), but still weren’t lasting long (<60sec). I decided to take a warm shower. I was thinking, “either these have to pick up & show me a sign that it is labor OR chill out!” During my 30min shower these “different” contractions were becoming more regular, but I still wasn’t convinced. “Maybe it’s just the nipple stim from the shower.” Leonard kept checking in and asking to call the midwife. I kept attempting to reassure him that I was NOT in labor, but did ask him to get the kids ready for bed (before 7p?). I guess that was all he needed to hear. He went into full labor mode….tidying up the house, situating the kids, looking for his “what to do if the baby comes before the midwife” checklist. Unfortunately, I still wasn’t convinced. I was waiting for some big blob of mucous or bloody show…just something!

I got out the shower and decided to call Adrienne (a very dear friend and L&D nurse too). I told her I wasn’t sure and told her how I was feeling. She told me not to wait until the last minute because I was already dilated 3-4cm and this was my third baby. Yet, I still wasn’t sure. I told her I was going to lay down and give it another couple hours. I then remembered another dear friend, Alicia. I had asked her to be present for the birth too. If this was the real deal, she would need time to prepare and get her baby girl all situated as well. So, I called her too. I will NEVER forget this phone call! Me – “Licia” (with my heavy breathing). Licia – “Hey, what’s going on?” (in her soft sweet voice). Me – “I’m sitting on the toilet.” Licia – “Ok. I don’t think I’ve ever talked to you while you were on the toilet before.” It was quite amusing looking back on it. I shared with her my same thoughts that I had with Adrienne.

So, I attempted to rest. These “different” contractions were regular and not letting off with a shower & rest. OK. I decided to call Adrienne back and ask her to come examine me. My biggest concern was calling the midwife too soon. I’m a L&D nurse….I should recognize labor….maybe?!?!? Adrienne was already up and getting dressed when I called back, BUT she lives 45min away! Leonard continued to ask about calling the midwife. I reassured him that Adrienne was on her way & I would call the midwife after she got there….if I was indeed in labor. I watched the clock while alternating positions between the birth ball and hands/knees. I was eagerly waiting to hop into that warm birthing pool, but didn’t want to get in too soon & stall labor. The girls, Hannah & Sarah, were great doulas! They took turns holding my hands and rubbing my back. All those homebirth books prepared them well. There was no fear between the two of them.

Adrienne finally arrived about 9pm and examined me. She said I was 6cm with a bulging bag and that the head was low. I had Adrienne call Alicia & Leonard page the midwife while I promptly undressed and jumped into that pool. The water was initially too hot & Leonard began running around trying to hook up the hose to cool it off. It was a little entertaining! The water was all that I had dreamed it to be. The contractions felt less intense. I was able to talk with the girls & Adrienne in between. It was ideal! I lost track of time after Adrienne arrived. I know that Alicia arrived shortly after and Alice, the midwife, arrived about 10p.

Alice carried in all of her bags and made a place for them in the bedroom. She then dopplered the baby’s heart beat. She commented that the water was too warm & my temp was mildly elevated. So, I had to get out! Oh, no! Leonard was in full affect again trying to cool the water off. While he was doing that, I sat on the toilet. The contractions were soo much stronger and came a lot more often outside the pool. Sitting there, I felt something had changed…something was different. So, I asked Alice to examine me. I layed down in bed praying that I was more than 6cm! I was! I was 9.5 cm with a bulging bag! My mind went into a tail spin. I could not believe it! (Around 11p)

Leonard crawled into bed with me. I lay on my side and wrapped my arms around his neck. I turned on my favorite CD of Praise & Worship and tried to stay focus. It was like my pain went from “0 to 10” when she told me I was 9.5 cm (note…my pain was not a 0). Christy, the student midwife, and Alicia were great with encouraging me to remain relaxed. “Open jaw…open bottom.” Laying in bed eventually became unbearable and I slipped back into the pool. “Awwwwww.”

I waited for this unbearable “urge to push.” It never came. I started to feel some rectal pressure with the peak of the contractions and would bear down slightly. I did this for what seemed like hours, but Adrienne told me it was only 10-15 min. I could feel this bulging bag of waters at my entroitus and had even tried to rupture it myself with no luck. I asked Alice if rupturing the bag would speed things along. “It might,” she said. So not what I wanted to hear. Just as she was going to do it, my bag of waters broke on its own. I could feel the baby’s head come down and even feel it wiggling around (a very strange feeling). Again, something had changed…something was different. My body relaxed and I gave into what my body was doing. I stopped trying to be in control. I began to breathe my baby down like I had learned with hypnobirthing. She slowly descended over a few contractions. I could feel her head & all her hair in my hand. I got onto my knees as she crowned. I cried out for help after her head was delivered because I felt her cord wrapped around her neck. Alice & Christy quickly stepped in. She was delivered with ease and I lifted her from the water (at 1143p). She was beautiful & perfect. My mind & body was overflowing with emotions (hormones) as she lay on my chest.

My prayer had been heard & answered….my girls witnessed the birth of their sister in our home and they will ALWAYS know that they have a choice!

36wks.....Maternity Pictures

2009-12-26T12:09:00.002-05:00

http://elizabethpaigephotography.com/

One thing that I didn't do with Hannah & Sarah that I was set on doing with this pregnancy was maternity pictures. I wanted to make sure I captured this moment in print because I'm pretty certain this will be my last pregnancy. One of my dearest friends, Cory, had maternity pictures taken last summer & I was blessed with the opportunity to be there with her. I fell in love with the photographer, Elizabeth Paige. She is amazing! She did our family pictures last Fall and they were amazing as well.

We ventured out to a farm in Midway, FL on December 17th. It was hi 40s to lo 50s that morning, but we were going to get them done because I was already 36wks. I am extremely grateful for Adrienne who helped me out with Ms Sarah Frances & she also had some great ideas...peaking around the barn! Paige even captured a few pics with Sarah.

So, I am 37+3 wks today and anxiously awaiting the arrival of our new baby girl. Today we are going to cast my belly! Another dear friend, Alicia, got me a belly casting kit and I have yet to pull out. Figure today is the day considering labor may come at time now!

Sarafina turns the big "4"

2009-12-09T10:33:00.005-05:00

Yes, my little precious baby girl turned 4 years old! I cannot believe that it has already been four years. I further cannot believe that she will only be "Mommy's baby girl" for a few more weeks. Leonard & I realized that this needed to be special for her because her whole world is about to be rocked and turned up-side-down. So, she got an afternoon with Mommy & Daddy all by herself. She started the day opening gifts. It was suppose to be be a distraction while we hunted down a candle to place on her birthday breakfast doughnut. Needless to say, we never did find those candles.....and I buy a brand new box every bday for this same reason! Where do they go?

She was blessed with many great gifts. I have to say her hands down favorite is the Leapster that Ms Stacy & Eli got for her. She has never mentioned wanting one before. Yet, the child cannot put it down. And of course, there were NO AA batteries to be found in the house. We had to scramble because I had an early prenatal visit, but we had to stop to get those batteries on the way. At least now I have a gift idea for Christmas....a game for the Leapster.

After my prenatal visit...which went great by the way....the countdown is on, we met Daddy at the mall. Now the one thing she has been begging for is a new Build-a-bear. So, we took her to the workshop in the mall. She was in Heaven! Had to pull the reigns many times because Daddy doesn't know how to say "NO." She choose a very cute little puppy dog....a Portuguese Water dog that she happily named "Santa." Of course, she enjoyed the Build-a-bear rituals of bringing her puppy to life. This was all followed up by lunch at Ruby Tuesday's. She enjoys the mini burgers & grapes from salad bar. Daddy then had to head back to work.

Our day kept going from there. She wore her new dance dress & carried her new dance bag (thanks, Grandma Florene) to Ballet that evening. The day finally concluded with Pizza (another Sarah favorite), cake, & ice cream with the McCoy family back at home. As I tucked her in that night she smiled really wide and said, "Mommy, my birthday has come. That means Christmas is coming soon.....and then the BABY!" :)

Hannah's First Chorus Performance

2009-12-08T11:14:00.002-05:00

That's right.....Hannah Banana is in the school's choir! She eagerly joined back in September. They have after school rehearsal once a week and we finally got to witness all her hard work. The school had its first performance of the year this week. Hannah complained about having to stand in the back. I tried to explain to her that it was because she is soooo tall & the tall kids are always in the back. She wasn't feelin being pinned between all the boys and it showed all over face. She refused to smile the entire performance. However, they did quite well. The McCoy family and Ms Tina came out to support her. She was very happy to see Ms Tina. Unfortunately, they haven't been able to spend much time together with our new hectic schedule. Of course in Banana fashion, she wouldn't allow me to get a "good" picture. Leonard & I are very happy to see her thriving at her new school. She brings up homeschool about once a week, but overall doing well.

Baby Huff's Celebration

2009-12-07T11:11:00.001-05:00

Super-Sized Cloth Diaper Giveaway: Nov. 20 - Dec. 4, 2009

2009-11-20T12:18:00.000-05:00

And the Winner is..........

2009-11-10T18:26:00.004-05:00

...STUDENT OF THE WEEK
"Congratulations to Hannah Huff, our Student of the Week! Hannah is currently in Level II classes and was nominated by her teachers because of her polite manners, her willingness to learn and improve and her initiative and drive. We've loved watching you grow, Hannah. Congratulations - we're so proud of you!" - The Performing Arts Center of Tallahassee www.pactdance.com

Hannah is currently in her 5th season at PACT.
She is taking Ballet II & Jazz II.
Leonard & I are very proud of her and are very excited about her achievement.

This is her at the last annual performance with her teachers,
Ms Carly & Ms Robyn.
This year she has two new teachers and
really getting into the valuable techniques of dance.

Cloth What?

2009-11-05T09:39:00.007-05:00

Yes, cloth diapers! Everyone is asking "why?" My response, "why not?" True, I did not use cloth diapers with my first two girls, but after talking with a few friends and doing alot of research....."why not?" Initially, I was a little hesitant. My first thought was of those Gerber pre-folds and white vinyl covers that my Momma used with my baby sister. I remember dunking those things in the toilet....and the smell!

Pre-fold diaper with Snappi

However, cloth diapers have come a LONG way in the past few years. Sure, the pre-folds are still around, but say "good-bye" to the safety pin closure. The Snappi is a plastic stretchy closure that wont stick you or baby. The pre-fold diaper is still the most economical, but the quality is much better than before. And now those white vinyl covers have been replaced by cool assorted colors that close with snaps or velcro.

Thirsty Duo Covers with Pre-fold

FuzziBunz Pocket Diaper

Ultimately, the decision to use cloth was that it would be best for our pockets & best for the environment. If you know Leonard, you know that he is "Mr Green" and all about saving the environment. And if you know me, you know that I am all about spending money wisely and saving where I can. I spent a little over $200 for my initial stash and shouldn't HAVE to buy another diaper for at least 6mos....even longer if Baby Girl Huff is as petite as Ms Sarah. And I can give them away and that Mommy wont have to spend a $$$ on diapers!

FuzziBunz Pocket Diaper

My Beginning Stash + a few dozen pre-folds

There are tons of great resources on-line for choosing cloth diapers. But thank God, I have been blessed with someone locally who has helped me tremendously. Seeing something on-line and actually touching it & asking an expert about them makes it soooo much easier. Jen Starks at Ecological Babies (http://www.ecologicalbabies.com/) has been a great resource. She encouraged me to buy a couple of different brands to fill them out first. So my beginning stash includes one FuzziBunz, 2 Bum Genius, 2 Gro Babies, and pre-folds with Thirsty Duo covers.

Gro-Baby System

Gro-Baby System comes in a alot more colors/patterns & snap closure. They are one of the newest diapers on the market. See how easy to use!

Bum Genius 3.0 One size diaper

The Bum Genius diaper is the most popular and seems very easy to use. My Dear friend, Genny has offered me a dozen of her baby girl's. I'm quite excited about adding them to my stash and for the low low $$$$$!

27wks

2009-10-15T22:43:00.001-04:00

1st week down....

2009-08-30T12:20:00.005-04:00

The first week of school....done! This past week took the TLH Huffs by storm. We were no way ready to be getting up at 0545 every single day. Hannah & Amari jumped out of bed the first day, but each day following became a chore.....for me of course. So, we are up at 0545 and out the house by 0620 to catch the bus by 0640. "Lord, send help" as my dear friend Tina would say. We are truly NOT morning people, but we shall press on.

Sarah cried ALL day Monday and ran around the house looking for her sister & brother. I was soooo tired after working all night that I just could not fester enough energy to entertain her. However, each day got better as we kept busy. She was truly excited to try on her very first pair of ballet slippers and tap shoes! I took her all by herself to Head Over Heals off Lake Ella. We are frequent patrons there as Hannah needs new dance shoes at least 2-3 times a season. However, this time was Sarah's turn! She is taking pre-primary ballet & tap on Wednesdays. The studio was over crowded with 3 & 4 yr olds, but we found our way to studio #2. She clutched to my leg as we stood in line to enter the class. We were both very pleased to find out her teacher would be Ms Robyn (she also taught Hannah & we know her well). Sarah then realized that she had to go in all by herself....no more "Mommy & Me." She broke down into tears & begged me to come with her, but Ms Robyn to the rescue. I stayed & watcher her on the tv. She did well & came out very excited!

Hannah's week was also very full. She started a new school & a her 5th season of dance at PACT. She is only taking Ballet II & Jazz II this season. Going to take it easy with all the new adjustments going on.

Amari survived his first week of school as a TLH Huff. No after school activities for him just yet. He hasn't decided what or if he wants to do anything. He's slowly easing from his shell daily & spending alot more time outside with Hannah and the other neighborhood kids. He loves his new roller skates that Grandma Florene sent him. We did hit a speed bump Thursday night when he refused to do his reading with his dad. I let Leonard handle it. I pray that he continues to adjust and thrives.

"I told you so!"

2009-08-27T20:32:00.007-04:00

Ok....so, yesterday morning we had our routine 20wk ultrasound. The baby looks great & is growing well. Now the big question at these ultrasounds is "boy or girl?" Leonard & I had previously discussed that we would find out the sex of the baby. He told me to stop calling his baby girl Jeremiah (the chosen name for a boy). I had no gut instinct either way like I did with my girls.

So, the very nice ultrasound tech looks at us both and asks, "do you want to know the sex of your baby?" Leonard says, "No because I already know." Huh? So, she then looks at me and Leonard says, "if you're going tell her I'm going to leave the room." Huh? So, now she is looking at us like we are insane! To appease us both, she printed out an ultrasound pic, typed the sex on it, and sealed it in an envelope for us. Of course, I ripped it open as soon we stepped out of the exam room hoping to prove him wrong. He says as I open the envelope, "I told you so!"

Yes, he told me so! The TLH Huffs are expecting another girl this winter! I was actually quite relieved because I truly don't think I am a "boy's Mommy." Sarah has declared her name to be Maggie. Hannah still does not believe the baby is a girl. She was actually wishing for a baby brother "because I already have a baby sister."

My dear friend Adrienne took these cute belly photos for me for. I have NO belly pics of my previous pregnancies & she is insisting that I take at least one every couple of weeks. Hope to have some professional ones taken later in the pregnancy by Paige. www.elizabethpaigephotography.com

Summer Ending...and New Beginnings!

2009-08-24T02:55:00.007-04:00

The Summer is coming to an end and the Tallahassee Huffs are embarking on a new journey. So many new things to report...I don't know where to start. So, I'm going to start with the MOST exciting news.....The TLH Huffs will be welcoming a new edition this winter! I am 19wks pregnant and due January 13, 2010. The girls are overjoyed and amazed with my ever changing body. They have been very inquisitive and of course Mommy has encouraged them. Our Midwife loaned Sarah a great book about a baby being born. She now knows all about placentas, amniotic fluid, and umbilical cords. It's too funny to hear her and Hannah discussing the impending birth. Hannah has already proclaimed that she will be delivering the baby and Sarah wants to cut "the cord." We are all very excited. I have my 20wk ultrasound this week. Leonard would like to find out the sex, but I'm not sure if I want to. Stay tuned to find out! ;)

Baby Huff will the be our 2nd newest edition. A few weeks ago Leonard's son, Amari, came to live with us from Detroit. He calls Tallahassee "the country." I guess it is compared to the Big "D"! He is a little shy, but coming more out of his shell daily The girls have enjoyed him being here. Sarah is literally attached to his hip most of the day. Yes, you have counted correctly....The TLH Huffs will be a family of SIX this winter!

Unfortunately with all these changes and new beginnings, we have had to say goodbye to homeschooling for now. :( Both Hannah & I are very sad to see her go back to school. Yet, we had a great time last year with tons of pics to prove it! The first day of school is today. She will be attending a new charter school here called Imagine @ Evening Rose. The majority of the student there were previously home schooled. So, hopefully she will embrace this opportunity and enjoy it. However, I did tell her if she gave it her honest best and didn't like it, she didn't have to continue. Please say a prayer for us....I think this is going to be a pretty rough week.

So, it will just be Sarah & I at home...until Baby Huff's arrival. I'm sure she will be keep me busy with Story time at the library, pre-school gymnastics, dance, and play dates.

Tanashia

BeFunky.com

2009-07-08T21:20:00.004-04:00

I saw an awesome pic on a friend' blog....The Veleber Chronicles. Had to see how she did that. Did a couple of pics and now I'm addicted. Thanks, Brooke!

www.befunky.com

HomeSchool Day....at Wild Adventures

2009-06-16T17:32:00.006-04:00

The school year is slowing down for TLH Huffs. The girls continue to work daily, but not as much. For the end of the year field trip, Adrienne & I took the girls to Wild Adventures for "HomeSchool Days." The park designates two weeks out of the year for kids who are homeschooled. Admission was reduced and the girls were able to have private tours of the park and animals. The weather was scorching. So, we diverted from the planned iteneraty to hit a couple of water rides! It was Adrienne & her girls first time at the park. We had a great time and looking for to it again in the Fall.

Music, Magic, & Make Believe

2009-06-16T17:30:00.007-04:00

In June, Hannah preformed in her 4th annual end of season dance recital. This year was her first time being in the "big show" on Friday night! The show was amazing. All of the dancers did a great job. Leonard & I were very proud of Hannah & all her hard work this dance season.

She had three performances.....Hip-Hop Jrs, Ballet II, and Jazz II. She was very excited to be in the "big show," but missed being with her friend Kennedy. Unfortunately, Kennedy wont be in the "big show" for another season. So, the TLH Huffs are preparing for another season of dance that starts next month. Yet, this time Ms Sarah will be hitting the stage too! That's right...she is 3 yrs old and old enought to dance! She will be taking pre-primary ballet and tap. Do they make tap shoes that small?!?!?

Mother's Day

2009-05-10T17:58:00.002-04:00

"I don't like Tee Tee Nashia!"

2009-04-07T20:32:00.004-04:00

Adria LaToya Cowell...that's what they call her. The middle child of my baby sister. Merely six months older than Sarah, but VERY different.

Well she has been with the TLH Huffs for the past few weeks so that Toya can get some rest with her new baby (DJ). Adria has spent some time with us on more than one occasion. And each time I swear it is the last. Yet, somehow I forget that. I think, "she's older now...more mature...it's will be different...better!"

Maybe NOT!

Don't get me wrong. We love her to death and treat her like she is one of the TLH Huffs. Yet, she constantly reminds us that she is not. "My momma is Toya and my daddy is AJ!" She is very strong willed and wants what she wants when she wants it. When she gets angry she has the horrible habit of screaming bloody murder at the top of her lungs. So who does it now too....yes, my Sarah.

But this takes the cake....yesterday the girls and I met Leonard for lunch at Pizza Hut after a morning at the Jr. Museum. The place is busy because it's lunch time. Adria decides that she wants to pout and at the top of her lungs yell, "I don't like you" to me! "I don't like Tee Tee Nashia!"

Every head turns and everyone is watching and waiting to see my response. What to do?

Inhale...1.2.3...exhale...1.2.3. Thank the Lord, Leonard was there. He promptly handled the situation.

I can laugh about it now. I even took the time to snap a pic of her. She continues to remind me that she doesn't like me. Oh, well. I'm not her friend....I'm her Tee Tee Nashia!

Hannah's HomeSchool Update

2009-04-03T13:05:00.003-04:00

I cannot believe that it is April already! Where has the time gone? The girls have been staying busy with all their activities....especially Hannah Banana! Her annual end of the year dance recital is approaching. We got a sneak peak at the costumes last week...very interesting. I am in love with her ballet one. She is in love with her jazz one. And we both are questioning the hip-hop one. Stay tuned for pics!

She has decided that she definitely wants to audition for the Company. Auditions are on the 19th! I think this audition will either "make or break" her dream of being a dancer. She is loosing interest. Leonard is willing to let her just stop. I was thinking, "what if Alicia Keys' mom just let her stop when she just got a little discouraged at 8yrs of age?" I only wish my mom was firm with me and didn't let me give up playing the piano or clarinet...I was actually pretty good...not to toot my own horn! ;)

She has actually become quite interested in science and health. Hmmmm....wonder where she gets that from? The Jr Museum has an exhibit on the history of health care in Florida. We both learned ALOT! I was quite pleased with all the information that they had about African-American midwives in Florida....a little passion of my own! Hannah has already began planning her own home births. She asked me why didn't I have my babies at home?!? For a moment I thought I was rearing a midwife, but she quickly shattered that for me. She has declared that she is going to Engineering School! She sooo didn't get that from me! :)

HomeSchooling has been pretty amazing and we are still enjoying it. We have been blessed to have friends that are enjoying the same journey. In February, Adrienne and I took the girls to FAMU's campus to visit the Black Archives. It was an amazing experience. I broke the rules and pulled out the camera. In all honesty, I didn't know that I couldn't take pictures. Yet, I got a few in before Adrienne pointed out the sign.

We are looking forward to the Spring's warm weather and new adventures! Shot out to Melody...thanks for the on-line resources!

Sarah's HomeSchool Update

2009-04-03T12:26:00.002-04:00

It is finally Spring! The weather is warm and the girls are loving it. We had a setback this week with all the raining and flooding, but today the sun is shinning! Next Sunday is Easter and we have tons of crafts and reading planned for this upcoming week.

Sarah is no longer attending the "Critter Class" at the Jr Museum. Enrollment really picks up in the Spring and we missed out on a spot. Oh, well! We still have our membership and enjoy checking up on the animals and all the new exhibits.

At her last class, she learned all about turtles and rabbits. She really liked examining everything with the magnifying glass. At home we are still working on her phonics. She mastered letter recognition and has moved on to letter sounds. Hooray for Hooked on Phonics! She can easily start up the computer games all by herself and maneuver through them with little assistance.

Her greatest achievement is learning to spell her name....not just Sarah, but Sarah Huff! She is even trying to write it! Go, Sarah Frances! We are loving the chalkboard walk. She practice writing whenever she likes without killing a tree! It's all about being green. :)

A Tuesday Moment

2009-03-31T15:31:00.001-04:00

New Edition....

2009-03-25T18:17:00.002-04:00

This week the girls & I have been rocking out to old school New Edition. My sisters & I grew up listening to them and attended all of their concernts within a 200 mile radius. I have found it very amusing that my girls enjoy the music as well. We have even got Adria dancing to "Mr Telephone Man." It's hilarious! :O

So, this if for my sisters and my cousin Tiffany!

Where is my pickle?

2009-03-18T18:30:00.003-04:00

Many of you have absolutely no idea what I am referring to. But I know that there are alot of you who do! OK. In short, my employer had all employees attend a customer service class a few years ago. The title of this class was "the pickle." We are encouraged to ALWAYS put the customer first and just give them the pickle.

So, I want to know where is my pickle? Every Friday afternoon after Hannah's dance class, the girls and I get "fast food." They take turns picking the place. Sarah always chooses Chick-fil-a. Hannah likes McDonald's. Well, last Friday it was Hannah's turn.

We ALWAYS order the same thing....a #1, large, with sweet tea...a chicken nugget happy meal, with Hi-C for a girl...and a might kids cheeseburger meal with a Sprite. I'm always polite and use my "please" and "thank-you." But I cannot remember the last time I was greeted with "Welcome to McDonald's. May I take your order?" or "you're welcome."

This lovely afternoon, the cashier told me that my total was $10.04. I said "I'm sorry but did you get the entire order" and then repeated it for him. His response, "Yeah, it's $10.04" (of course in a rude and condescending tone). I took a deep breath (as Hannah has taught me to do in times like these) and repeated the order once again.

***PAUSE*** Really quickly....a #1 lrg is about $6, a kids meal about $4, and a might meal about $5....Got me? ***RESUME***

"I said it's $10.04. Just drive around." So, I drove around and repeated the order AGAIN! "I got it. It's $10.04." Took another deep breath and handed him my debit card and then drove to the "pick up" window. She proceeded to hand me one happy meal, one mighty meal, and one large ice tea. Took another deep breath. "You need something else?" she asked. "My #1 value meal large, please." "Uh, you didn't order one. I gave you what you ordered and you didn't order no #1. I'm looking at it right here." (Imagine the rolling of the eyes and the neck) If it had been any other day, I probably would have taken her on. But it was a Friday and I was in desperate need of a nap before work.

So, I ask again....where is my pickle? Where has customer service gone in this country. Why can't I be greeted with a smile when I choose to spend my hard earned money at an establishment? Do employers really not care how their employees are treating customers? With ALL that said....the TLH Huffs will no longer patron McDonald's or any other establishment that does not feel like giving us a "pickle."

Adria is back.....

2009-03-14T17:17:00.003-04:00

It's official! Adria is back! Adria is my baby sister's middle daughter. She and Sarah are very close in age and LOVE being with each other. Well, the weather is warm and Summer is approaching. So it is time for the cousins to visit. Hold on to your seats...with Dria around there is always a good story to share.

"Grace...Grace...and...more Grace!"

2009-03-12T15:07:00.003-04:00

Saving Grace

Two weeks ago I heard the most inspirational sermon at church. When I saw this picture I immediately thought of it. "Grace, Grace, and more Grace!" Glory!

My Mother Kept a Garden...

2009-03-12T00:29:00.005-04:00

New Beginnings

My mother kept a garden,
A garden of the heart.
She planted all the good things
That gave my life its start.
She turned me to the sunshine
And encouraged me to dream,
Fostering and nurturing
The seeds of self-esteem...
And when the winds and rain came,
She protected me enough~
But not too much because she knew
I'd need to stand up strong and tough.
Her constant good example
Always taught me right from wrong~
Markers for my pathway
That will last a lifetime long.
I am my Mother's garden.
I am her legacy~
And I hope today she feels the love
Reflected back from me

Sometimes...

2009-03-10T17:43:00.002-04:00

Sometimes we don't have understanding of what's going on in our life. I was having one of those moments when I received an e-mail from my dear friend Terrie. I wanted to share it with everyone.

SOMETIMES...

We must be hurt in order to grow,

We must fail in order to know,

We must lose in order to gain.

Some Lessons are learned best only through pain.

SOMETIMES...

Our vision clears only after our eyes are washed with tears.

We have to be broken, so we can be tender,

We are sick so we can rest and think better on things more important than work or fun,

We are taken for trip near death, so we can assess how we've run.

SOMETIMES...

We have to suffer lack, so we can know God's provision,

We have to feel another's pain, so we can have a sense of mission.

So take heart, if you don't understand today,

Instead of grumbling, ask God what He means to say,

In order to learn you must endure, and learn to see the bigger picture.

In order to grow, you must stand and look beyond the hurt,

Trust in God's loving hand that takes what is Good, and gives what is Best,

And on this blessed thought, rest your anxious heart with all

The ATL Feb 2009

2009-02-25T15:55:00.004-05:00

Last week the TLH Huffs ventured to the ATL for some family time, entertainment, shopping, & education! I've been planning this trip since October. A friend from work told me about Alvin Ailey's 50th celebration & I found a tour stop in the ATL. Hannah is in her fourth season of dance and needed a little inspiration to keep going. So, we decided to make it a little family reunion as well. Leonard's mom, son, and nephew were able to join us from Detroit. Thursday we enjoyed the GA aquarium - a great homeschool field trip. It was really nice! Thursday night Hannah & I witnessed Alvin Ailey's glory at the Fox. Amazing show...If you get a chance it is a MUST see!!!

My American Girls

2009-02-24T23:42:00.006-05:00

Alvin Ailey

2009-02-19T00:04:00.003-05:00

Thursday night, Feb 19th, Hannah and I stepped out into the bright lights of downtown Atlanta. The weather was frigid & us Florida girls were not prepared. Yet, the anticipation of being a part of Alvin Ailey's 50th celebration kept us warm! That's right...Hannah & I enjoyed 2 1/2 hrs of the world's best dancers in Atlanta's infamous Fox Theater! Great orchestra seats and the company of Grandma Florene and we were two happy campers. We were all amazed! Hannah leaned over and whispered into my ear half way thru the show, "Mommy, I want to dance like that." Jack pot! Mission accomplished!

Meals on Wheels

2009-02-11T22:03:00.003-05:00

On January 20, 2009, the girls & I watched in amazement as Barack Obama was inaugurated the first black President of the United States of America. He called for ALL Americans to help him usher in a new a day in America...a "change." Hannah asked me, "what can we do to help?" I told her that we could do ANYthing she wanted to do.

During the past couple of years she has come to enjoy the American Doll collection. The collection includes many historical dolls from different eras in America's history. Each doll has its own series of books...to encourage reading! Hannah's first doll, Addy, is a young slave girl who escapes to freedom with her mother. Hannah learns how Addy and her Momma struggle with their new freedom because they don't have any money. However, God blesses them with friends who help them. Another story that Hannah enjoys is that of Kitt. Kitt is coming of age during the Great Depression. Her wealthy family looses almost everything, her dad has to leave town to find work, and her mom takes in boarders to help out. Kitt & her classmates volunteer in a "soup kitchen" to help. Where is all this going? Well, that's what Hannah wants to do. She wants to be a friend to someone in need and provide food for the less fortunate.

With that said, I promptly "googled" volunteer work in the Big Bend. Hannah continued to remind me exactly what she wanted to do. FYI...there are several great volunteer opportunities in our area. As I scrolled thru pages and pages of organizations, I came across Elder Care Service. http://www.ecsbigbend.org/ I remembered doing a couple of Meals on Wheels routes in Nursing School. Jack Pot! We filled out the application on-line and within hours received a phone call. That was it! The TLH Huffs had adopted a Meals on Wheels route. Every Tuesday morning the girls & I pick up meals from the Elder Care Service and deliver them to 11 elderly people. The women enjoy seeing the girls & the girls are starting to warm up to them...Sarah more so than Hannah, but she working on it. Even after her birthday sleepover, her gal pals accompanied us...they all enjoyed it as well.

http://www.mowaa.org/Page.aspx?pid=183

February HomeSchool Update

2009-02-10T22:43:00.000-05:00

OK...I really truly cannot believe that it is already February. We are officially over 5mos into homeschooling. I feel like a tape recorder...but honesty, we are enjoying it & having tons of fun! Our dinning room continues to grow into our "classroom" daily. Even though, I have already learned that the world is our new classroom. I finally tackled the infamous "chalkboard wall." And I must say that it looks darn good! The girls are loving it!

It wasn't hard to do at all. It took 3 coats and less than 30min to dry....hung up a boarder...and the girls were off!
I'm actually quite proud of myself! No applause, please :)

February is the shortest month of the year, but we've got it jammed packed with activities. Sarah has officially been moved up in her creative dance and will begin ballet & tap tomorrow....no more Mommy & Me :( Hannah is preparing for her end of the year dance recital and excited about seeing the Alvin Ailey Company later this month. Most importantly, we are enjoying one another and leaning more and more about one another. This is precious time that Leonard & I will never be able to have again with our girls!

Banana is 8 yrs old!

2009-02-09T22:53:00.000-05:00

Florida's Endagered Animals...by Hannah

2009-01-06T15:53:00.003-05:00

Yesterday we went to the Jr Museum. We learned about endangered animals in Florida. We saw a gopher tortoise and an Indigo snake. The tortoise is endangered because people are destroying their habitats. A habitat is its home. The Gopher tortoise burrows into soft sand. Its burrow provides shelter for other animals like the Indigo snakes. People are shooting animals and running them over with their cars & bikes. My friends, Trinity & Kennedy, and I are doing projects on endangered animals in Florida. I am doing mine on the Whooping Crane. Trinity is doing the Manatee and Kennedy is doing the Florida Panther. Love, Hannah

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T15:55:00.002-05:00

FYI....the girls are sipping on ginger ale!

Two Traveling Angels

2008-12-31T14:10:00.006-05:00

My dear friend Terrie sent this to me today. I have received it many time before, but for some reason today it felt different. I wanted to share it with everyone.

Two traveling angels stopped to spend the night in the home of a wealthy family. The family was rude and refused to let the angels stay in the mansion's guest room. Instead the angels were given a small space in the cold basement. As they made their bed on the hard floor, the older angel saw a hole in the wall and repaired it. When the younger angel asked why, the older angel replied, 'Things aren't always what they seem.'

The next night the pair came to rest at the house of a very poor, but very hospitable farmer and his wife. After sharing what little food they had the couple let the angels sleep in their bed where they could have a good night's rest. When the sun came up the next morning the angels found the farmer and his wife in tears. Their only cow, whose milk had been their sole income, lay dead in the field. The younger angel was infuriated and asked theolder angel how could you have let this happen? The first man had everything, yet you helped him, she accused. The second family had little but was willing to share everything, and you let the cow die. 'Things aren't always what they seem,' the older angel replied.
When we stayed in the basement of the mansion, I noticed there was gold stored in that hole in the wall. Since the owner was so obsessed with greed and unwilling to share his good fortune, I sealed the wall so he wouldn't find it.' Then last night as we slept in the farmers bed,the angel of death came for his wife. I gave him the cow instead. Things aren't always what they seem.

Sometimes that is exactly what happens when things don't turn out the way they should. If you have faith, you just need to trust that every outcome is always to your advantage. You just might not know it until some time later...

Some people come into our lives quickly go. Some people become friends and stay awhile.. leaving beautiful footprints on our hearts..and we are never quite the same because we have made a good friend!!

Yesterday is history. Tomorrow a mystery. Today is a gift. That's why it's called the present!
I think this is special...live and savor every moment.. This is not a dress rehearsal!

Sarah's HomeSchool Update!

2008-12-30T19:49:00.002-05:00

Hannah isn't the only one learning at home this year. Yes, Sarah has been eager to read on her own! We conquered vowels a few months ago, but that has not quenched her thirst to read at all. So, Mommy invested in Hooked on Phonics Learn to Read for Pre-K.

I used Hooked on Phonics with Hannah in Kindergarten and loved how the program encourages reading in a fun way. Sarah quickly picked up how to play the computer games. She was a little bothered initially because she has never used my lap top before and was not familiar with the mouse. Yet, she quickly picked that up too! :)

She tackled the letters A - D. Honestly, she breezed through the letters A - D. She was extremely proud of herself and didn't want to stop "playing." Learning can truly be fun, exciting, and rewarding. It has been rewarding to me to watch my girls learn!

So, she will play the A-D games again tomorrow. And if she does well, will be rewarded with her first sticker on her reading chart!

December HomeSchool Update

2008-12-27T15:01:00.006-05:00

The Fall of 2008 has come and gone. We are four months into our HomeSchool adventure now. The girls continue to thrive and enjoy being home. We all have learned alot through this great experience. Most importantly, the girls have a desire to learn! The primary focus these past few months has been reading and math. With the new year approaching and cooler days, I think that we will be spending more time outside and incorporating more Science. There are so many resources here in North Florida. One is the St Marks Wildlife Refuge. It is a favorite of Leonard's. He tries to get out there every chance he gets. He loves bird watching and fishing. Unfortunately, I haven't had the opportunity to venture out with him in years! Well, I was blessed with another Friday night off this week. So, on Saturday morning we all drove down to St Marks for one of their Families in Nature educational programs. The focus this month was on the Whooping Cranes. The girls learned about their migration here in an attempt to save them. Leonard says that there are only 70 left in the wild. Hannah made a "pizza" with all the toppings that a Whooping Crane would enjoy. Leonard was able to pull out his new binoculars that he received for Christmas and the weather was awesome (mid 70s)! The volunteers at the Refuge are awesome. They shared alot of educational material with me. I also learned that they offer free environmental education programs for children! We have been inspired to venture out into nature with the new year. Stay tuned,

The Christmas of 2008

2008-12-26T00:32:00.005-05:00

Hannah & Fall Dance

2008-12-18T00:49:00.002-05:00

This week was Hannah's fall parent observation day at dance. This is her fourth season. She is taking Ballet II, Jazz II, and Hip-Hop. That's three hours every week and three different pairs of dance shoes to keep up with! She continues to look more and more like a dancer every season.

Unfortunately, she did not make the cast for Alice in Wonderland. However, she is not broken. "Mommy, not everyone can be in the show," she said. Her instructor and dance director did recommend that she audition for the company. Being a part of the company would allow her more practice and attention to grow. Also, she would have more opportunity to perform on stage.

She enjoys sharing what she learns with Sarah after class. Some days she's not so excited about going to class. So, I have to keep on her and remind her that you just can't just give up...you have to work hard...hard work pays off every time! To keep her motivated, I am planning on taking her & Sarah to Atlanta in February for Hannah's birthday. The Alvin Ailey Company will be performing at the Fox Theater. I pray that seeing others like her dancing well will inspire her.

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas!

2008-12-13T23:30:00.003-05:00

The TLH Huff's Christmas Tree 2008

Can't pull out the camera without an ANTM photo shoot

I was blessed with a Friday night off. :O) What's the big deal? I work weekend nights! What does that mean? It means that I work every single Friday, Saturday, & Sunday night from 7pm to 7am. I am only granted two (yes, 2) weekends off a year. Therefore, I have to be very careful how I choose which days to take off. So, I was extremely excited when my job called & asked if I wanted to stay home! Yippee! Not working on a Friday night meant I didn't have to sleep all day Saturday before going to work. Leonard & I could actually sleep in together on a Sat morning and spend the day with the girls before I went back to work Sat night. So, we took this opportunity to dig out the Christmas tree from the garage. We haven't bought a real tree since we brought home our first cat, Tinkerbell. She goes crazy for the Christmas tree. Last year she crawled up into it every night to sleep. Great pics! The girls were really excited about decorating it. This is the first year that Sarah is old enough to participate and not be constantly told "stop, don't pull on that, get that out your mouth!" Of course, Leonard was the sour sport that he is every year and did not help. Oh, well. He did run out and get new garland and watched the girls & I decorate. I let them decorate however they want as long as they are enjoying themselves. Christmas' lists are long this year! I don't see how my Momma did Christmas every year with four girls! Our two are going to drive us into bankruptcy! Just kidding! We love shopping for our girls and watching their faces light up on Christmas day. Needless to say, the theme for homeschool this month has been the birth of Christ and what it means for our eternal life. Thanks to a dear friend, Cory, we have TONS of arts & crafts materials to utilized. Stay tuned for more great pics!

Sarah helping Mommy decorate the tree

"Sarah, they all don't go on one branch!"

Ms Sarah Frances is 3 yrs old!

2008-12-09T21:31:00.004-05:00

Today our baby girl turned three years old! Cannot believe it has been three years already. She was very excited about the day and had been counting down the days with Hannah. Last year she celebrated with friends at Baby Power. This year we settled on a good old fashion backyard home party! The weather was great for December...low 70s! It was windy and a little cloudy, but all the kids had a great time. Incorporated some of Sarah's favorite activities. She loves playing with the hula hoops, bubbles, and balls at her mommy-and-me class and having her face painted by Sparkles the clown on Tuesday nights. So, mommy and daddy made it happen! A bounce house with slide was the hit of the day. She was surrounded by good friends and family. And we all had a great time!

Thanksgiving 2008 at Dear's

2008-11-28T22:31:00.005-05:00

The TLH Huffs had the blessing of traveling to Grandma Dear's for Thanksgiving. I was so grateful to see all three of my sisters. We all haven't been together in a long time. We enjoyed Dear's famous dressing and sweet potatoe pies and Tee Lexy's Red Velevet cake!

Fall in North Florida

2008-11-12T21:33:00.004-05:00

Fall in North Florida means the State Fair and the changing color of leaves...both a site to see!

Hannah Banana on the Carousel...nice weather out (no sleeves)

Sarafina riding solo for the first time!

We enjoyed a lovely fall night with the McCoy Family at the North Florida State Fair. The weather was great....not too cold and not warm. I did become a little frigid towards the end of the night; however, I stay cold. The girls, like always, enjoyed themselves. We all enjoyed GREAT food...Italian sausages, pulled pork, fried turkey legs, cotton candy, kettle corn, sweet tea (for only .75), soft pretzels, and funnel cake! Hannah played "chicken" this year and didn't ride as much as usual. Sarah would have rode everything if she was tall enough! Leonard rode with Trinity on the dare-devil rides! Vince isn't a "rider." Yet, he and Leonard did tackle the mechanical bull! LOL! Leonard got him by 1 second. Now that was a site to see! So grateful to be raising my girls with a great family like the McCoy Family! Stay tuned for more of our great explorations!

Before jetting off to the fair, the girls & I met with Paige at McClay Gardens for more pictures. The gardens are so beautiful this time of year. Here are a few pics that I took with my phone. Paige has posted some on her website...check'em out!

http://elizabethpaigephotography.com/

November HomeSchool Update

2008-11-12T11:54:00.006-05:00

It's already November...time is flying. I cannot believe it has already been over 2 months since we started off on our homeschool adventure. The dining room remains our classroom for now... even though we have utilized the bed at times! :) The official classroom is still a work in progress. Leonard has installed the shelving in the closet to store ALL the books that we have accumulated. Thanks! Still in search for the "perfect" desk, but have tons of ideas...chalk board walls and magnetic walls and bright colors!

Hannah is still thriving and having fun. I think we have accepted the "unschool" method. The works gets done, but we aren't on a strict time schedule...tons of time to play and adventure out and just learn from life's daily lessons. Her reading improves daily. She started the homeschool book-it program and has set the goal of doing 15minutes of EXTRA reading five days a week! She is doing well with her dance as well. She is going to audition for "Alice in Wonderland" next Friday...say a prayer for her...she can be shy at times.

Sarah is approaching her third birthday (Dec 9th) and eager to learn! We are working on letter and number recognition and vowel sounds. She is doing well with colors, shapes, and puzzles! Her vocabulary is well above average and she surprises us daily with her new words.

Stay tuned,

Happy Birthday, Kennedy!

2008-11-10T23:06:00.002-05:00

Last week was a very busy week....on top of every day school and housework...there was the election, ACLS (Advance Cardiac Life Support) renewal, and Kennedy's 6th b-day!

Finally got the McCoy Family (Adrienne, Vince, & the girls) to come join us for dinner at Los Compadres. The girls enjoyed getting their faces painted...the men watched the election unravel...the women played around with our cameras and laughed over the silliest things.

Hannah & Sarah slept over with the McCoys because I had ACLS the next morning. Was a little sad that they were not home with us when we learned who our next "President elect" was. :( But Adrienne assured me that they watched and celebrated as well.

So, after many hours of ACLS, headed to Zoinks to celebrate Kennedy's 6th birthday. Girls, again, had a great time. I didn't have my camera. But wasn't worried because I knew Adrienne would have hers....thanks for the great pics of the girls!

After three hours of play at Zoinks and much begging and crying, I took the girls to Build-a-Bear for the first time. It's a tradition in the McCoy home that the Huffs somehow got involved in....wonder why? Hhhhmmmmm......ADRIENNE! Didn't realize that building a bear was such an ordeal. First you have to pick out the bear, then you have to stuff the bear, then you have to pick the heart and do a ceremonial dance to warm the heart, next you have to bathe the bear, followed by a trip to the "dressing room" where you pick out an outfit & accessories for the bear. Lastly, the bear must be named and a birth certificate is issued! A girl could go crazy in that store and cost her Mommy alot of money for a BEAR! So, Hannah named her bear Sierra and dressed her in a "Hannah Montana" outfit. Sarah chose a Koala and picked a pink parka jacket. Told them that they would have to earn the accessories! Tanashia

Election 2008! Vote for CHANGE!

2008-11-04T13:20:00.006-05:00

Maybe next year, Sarah

Guess who's behind there voting?

"My turn to be heard" - Hannah

Today is the day.....the day that the whole world will see what our country is capable of doing...electing the right man for President!

I must say that the girls have been just as excited as Leonard & I about today. Leonard stood in lines with thousands of others to vote early. The girls & I walked right in today ...NO lines... and casted our ballot! Hannah participated in "Kids Voting." Sarah kept reminding her who to vote for "Brocky Obama"....she's been watching Rocky (Balboa) with her daddy....it was too cute :)

All three of us walked away with our "I voted" stickers! A right that many of our ancestors fought and died for (both for women suffrage & civil rights for blacks) ... a right that I will constantly remind my girls that is essential to be heard... a right that allows us all to be accountable...a right that should not be taken for granted! Tanashia

Obama / Biden 2008!!!!

Jr Museum 11/3/2008

2008-11-03T16:58:00.004-05:00

Fall is in the air! Had to pull out the jackets this morning. Met up with Adreinne and Stacy at the museum today. This was Adrienne's first time out with us since school started. She accompanied the older girls while they attended their homeschool class for the month. The animal of the week for "critter class" was the deer. Unfortunately, we were not able to get a look at the deer in the park, but the kids enjoyed themselves anyway. Sarah really enjoys this class. However, Mommy not feelin the cold weather to come so much ! Tanashia

Aidan Update

2008-11-02T13:49:00.003-05:00

Aidan is doing soooo well! He has grown soooo big...about 18lbs now. He is sitting up on his own and is a very happy little boy...even thought he fussed every time I picked him up. I think he was tired of me and my camera in his face. :) He's just sooo adorable. He celebrated his 1st birthday last month! He still has his G-tube for feedings, but thriving and well. Lord, I thank you! Tanashia

Halloween 2008

2008-10-31T14:54:00.002-04:00

The TLH Huffs spent Halloween with TLH Huttos like we do every year! We all had a great time. Hannah talked me into dressing up..."Prom Queen." Yes, that is the same dress that I wore when I was 17yrs old to my own Senior Prom. Sarah was "Dora the Explorer", Hannah was "Major Flirt," and Leonard wore a mascaraed mask. The weather was cool, but not too bad. Enjoyed being with great friends and their families. Hands down, Michael Westiphal was the cutest lion! Jack was adorable in his tiger costume as well. Both participating in their first Halloween. Thanks, Patrick & Terrie for opening your home to all of us. It's a tradition that we look forward to every year. So, Patrick this cannot be the last one! Tanashia

Dear's House Fall 2008

2008-10-30T14:23:00.002-04:00

Grandma's House We Go.... Dear's House that is!

2008-10-30T14:00:00.006-04:00

Leonard had to travel to Pensacola for work this week. So, the girls and I took this advantage to travel with him to visit family there. We stayed three nights with Dear. She was very happy. I am glad the girls are getting to spend some quality time with her. She can answer ALL the questions that they have....that I can't answer about our family. Sarah loves looking at all the pictures that are literally EVERYWHERE! She's learning everyones' names and faces. We even were able to see Tonjas (my little- not so little anymore - cousin) and I was even able to sneak in a couple of pictures. Don't go anywhere without the camera! Everyone looks great and doing well. The big adventure for the week was helping Dear apply for a passport. Had to hunt down her birth certificate and figure out her parents' birthdays! Learned alot....Lexy even learned that Dear was born in Mississippi (not Alabama)....even I knew that one! :) So, hopefully Dear will be making her first trip out of the country to Trinidad & Tobago in January. One is NEVER too old to enjoy life! Lord, I thank you. Tanashia

Living or Nonliving

2008-10-22T10:32:00.005-04:00

Nonliving....bike

Living...Tiger (animal)

Living...Sarah (person)

Living....grass

Nonliving....chalk

Nonliving....shadow

The difference between living and nonliving things...living things need water, air, sun light, and nutrients to grow. Living things can also make other things like themselves. Yesterday, I used my Mom's camera to take pictures of nonliving and living things outside. Hannah

More Sample Pics

2008-10-17T11:09:00.001-04:00

Hannah

Sarah

http://elizabethpaigephotography.com/

Family Pics

2008-10-16T11:55:00.002-04:00

The dreaded family picture....it has been two years since we attempted to capture our family in print! :) Why? Because my daughters (like their father) suffer from a little ADD....or better yet...."what can we all do to drive our mom insane?" We met with Elizabeth Paige at Dorothy B. Oven park. We were out there about an hour and a half. The girls ran around like they had no sense and Leonard was more concerned with bird watching. I must say that Paige was AWESOME with the girls and very patient! She was able to capture this beautiful picture of all of us before the Tallahassee Huffs went into full affect. I can't wait to see the rest of them. Thanks Paige, you rock! http://elizabethpaigephotography.com/