Batson Family

Christmas Card Sample

2011-12-05T14:09:00.001-06:00

Fun Holiday Wishes Christmas

Shop Shutterfly for unique,Christmas card designs.

View the entire collection of cards.

2011-11-28T21:25:00.001-06:00

Awesome awesome $10,000 giveaway here!
SO many lovely items. Enter asap! Ends tonight!

2011-10-22T15:41:00.002-05:00

Thank you for visiting our blog. We hope you have a blessed day! To donate to our Mexico Mission trip fund, please see the link below.

More information is in a section of our request letter...

We are excitedand encouraged to once again be writing you. It has been laid on my heart toreturn to Reynosa, Mexico again this year. Through our church in St.Louis, Rooftop, I will be participating in the Homes for the Homeless projectwith Strategic Alliance again.

This year, the costs are right above $1,000to send a servant to Reynosa. This will cover travel, lodging, thebuilding materials, and basic necessities such as blankets, towels, clothes,and other items the people in this area are unable to afford.

Last year, when we both attended we wereincredibly blessed and filled with joy. We were amazed that the people of thecolonia were happy and content with so little. We immediately knew thatour lives would never be the same. With Stephanie's recent career changeshe is unable to go this year.

While in Reynosa, our group of 20+ people andaround 6 other churches from around the nation, we will build houses forMexican families who are in desperate need of adequate shelter. StrategicAlliance has been involved in building homes in this area since 1993. This week is one of the largest programs through Strategic Alliance, asthey also offer medical services, haircuts, worship times, children'sministries and a resource center with clothing, shoes and necessities. We will also continue to buildrelationships with the people of the colonia and visit the families we builthomes for last year.

We are asking for your assistance in anywaythat you can provide it, not just financially. We want to be in your prayers, thoughts, andconversations. We are hoping to continue to get more out of our encounters bysharing Christ with the people in the Reynosa colonia.

We need your encouragement and prayers.Please email or mail us a phrase or Bible verse that has inspired you as thesewill be reflected on while on the trip.

Hanging in Tremont!

2011-06-19T13:55:00.000-05:00

The Birthday boy had a trip to see grandma, grandpa, uncle bill and cousin Noah in Tremont : )

Uncle Bill and Noah decorated the driveway!

E calls bikes "motorcycles"....here they are!

Had to test drive Papa Lum's tractor!

Cousin Noah is SERIOUS and determined to mow the lawn!

Didnt quite figure this thing out, but still loved to play "motorcycles"

The boys on the beach--getting ready to FISH for the first time with Papa Lum and Uncle Bill

They ARE a pair!

CAUGHT ONE! And it scared the poop outta him! He tried to "pet" it!

Papa was celebrating Memorial Day with his Veteran Buddies. Eph wanted in the action!

Seriously cracks me up! The kid wanted a tooth pick like papa!!!

Even more fun!

E tried on Papas hat after the event!

Kiddo makes friends with people while we are driving around. He waves, people honk wave and smile. He is SUCH a sweetheart and such a stinker at the same time. Growing quickly and he talks NON STOP, really. He talks about "Noah did it." (Usually when something is broke, its Noah's fault!) He talks about stories from daycare, he tells stories about fishin, Papa, Grandma Rena, Noah, Aslice (Grandma Alice!), Ash Ash, HeyHey (Auntie Hailey!) and Ryan and Kari. We just had a big trip to Tennessee for Aunt Kari's wedding. We were able to spend lots of time with the Batson/Swetland and Collart families. Photos to come below!

Birthday Boy Turns TWO years old!

2011-06-19T13:28:00.000-05:00

MY BOY IS TWO! I can't believe it, but we have been busy celebrating it, that is for sure! Trying to stay updated on his blog is hard! Someone wants to "help" EVERY time I'm on the computer. Using nap time today to get caught up! Birthday post, wedding post and then some fun times post!

Grandmas Alice and Grandma Rena with the birthday boy!

Blowing out the Candles

Cousins sharing!

Cousins sliding together!

Momma and the cousins.

Grandma Rena and Eph

Playing outside!

Happy Easter! HE IS RISEN!

2011-04-26T21:59:00.000-05:00

My guy LOVES being outside..."side...side...side"

Finally, a pic of momma and babe :)

He climbs, crawls and gives his momma a heart attack by
just being a boy!

I'm amazed at the cute ones I got from this guy! HE NEVER
STOPS MOVING! He is such a compassionate mover :)

Thinking...and being SUPER cute!

Yelling is normal outside....its quite fun to be around this guy

Playing ball with the neighbor's dog!

Daddy-o and E man. Being cute :)

He is SO sweet. I still get lots of kisses and hugs and SMILES!

Bunny tattoo--Easter style!

Cutie pie COUSINS! I love this one!

Being silly on the chair during momma's photo shoot

Easter stuff at Rooftop church. Stamping fun.

Found some eggs at church! Woot woot!

Another cheese for momma! Gettin ready to color eggs

Dad is an expert!

Excited about the money in the eggs!

Cute face for the basket!


This is us! Our family of THREE! We are SO blessed

Poopster

2011-04-05T06:42:00.000-05:00

Yes, the title of the blog is Poopster....so, you can only imagine. My little guy has really blessed his mommy and daddy in the midst of a pretty busy time. He decided he would ONLY learn how to climb out of his bed at daycare.

He ALSO decided to ONLY do this at daycare: take off his diaper, climb out of the crib during nap time, POOP on the FLOOR and go back to sleep naked.

SERIOUSLY!?!?!?! This happened twice before the sitter could figure out WHO did WHAT! My little man is apparently a Pooping Houdini!

EVERY single day I laugh with this cute, adorable, smart and compassionate kiddo of mine. Jerret and I are amazed at the things he says (ALREADY!) and we usually do the whisper "hey, check out _______" multiple times per day.

Words and phrases we hear often: "EEmote" (remote), TV, Sadie NO NO, "Its eraining" (Its raining), "sow?" (snow?), LOVE YOU MOMMA (uh...yes, tears to the eyes!), LOVE YOU DADDA, he closes our nightly and dinner prayers with a hearty "AAAAMEN!", (when a loud knock or bell rings) "COME IN!", Pants (and then he takes them off), Poop, stinky!, and he loves to "Go bye bye" or "church". He also makes cute noises for airplanes, "rucks" (trucks) and "carsh" (cars)!

This month, our guy had ear infections all month :( I think he is finally feeling a little better. Lots of doc and ENT visits, but we could be on the mend!

As always, we are thankful to God for our little blessing and ALL our other blessings! (Especially the E-man being a poopster ONLY at daycare!)

A great resource!

2011-03-10T14:12:00.002-06:00

I have a friend who started a website called Jesus Companion. It is a great resource for verses, finding a church and listening to Joy FM! Please check it out and tell your friends! I have added the link to my blog so you can always find it through my site, too!

http://www.JesusCompanion.com

New Daily Deals Site.... SNIQUEAWAY

2011-02-08T09:14:00.002-06:00

In the yucky cold weather, I like to checkout the WARM, inviting places to go. I found this cool site that showcases a few Amazing deals a day (or a couple of days!). I hope you enjoy it too!

SniqueAway to your own retreat TODAY!

At the moment, I am eying the great deal in Las Vegas! Join today and check out the deals!

Our January.

2011-01-26T10:48:00.005-06:00

God has really been teaching us a lot this month. We are so grateful for our home, jobs, cars, furnishings and food that He so graciously provides us with. We started this month on our highest of highs and a very low low.

The high was returning from Reynosa, Mexico. We spent a week building homes for a family who JUST had a baby girl. The trip was hard work, but God met us where we were and provided strength, when I wasn't sure I could go on. (Uh-hum, we were required to be at devotions at 6:30a.m. and lights out were suppose to be at 11pm. With the organizing, socializing and sharing, often I didn't get to bed until 1am. This lady NEEDS her sleep to function. It was an enduring week!) As mentioned, we would start the day with devotions, a little message and some breakfast. Then, off to the site by 8am. (It was only a 10 minute drive). At the site, we got organized and then held a small group devotion with our team of 10 or so. From that point, it was all kinds of work, play, and connecting with the families, the locals and especially the children. While I hear from "old timers" that this year was different, I still saw and played with many kiddos. We usually left the job site by 5pm, had dinner and worship around 8pm and free time from 9-11pm. Our free time was busy with buying stuff for three houses and anticipating the needs of the families.

We were lucky enough to be blessed by a family in the colonial. We had two AMAZING lunches prepared by one of the first families our church provided a home for. Their love, devotion and humbleness was hard to comprehend. These people were at Rooftop's three job sites EVERY day. They helped paint, move wood, build the roof, clean, organize and so on! AND they cooked lunch for 35 people! What a huge blessing Margarita and Armando were that week. (And every year, from what I remember!)

Jerret and I learned about a few families' situations and wanted to weep. Instead, we committed to praying for them and unfortunate circumstances. I guess what hit home the most is this: These people are FULL of God's love and JOY!
They didn't complain that they had no propane to work their stove, they didn't ask for more food, blankets or furnishings, and they never complained. They were humble and happy. Grateful we were there to help with a new home-type-structure. (A small structure with four walls and four windows.) It is still hard to understand how they could feel such joy without needing/wanting/asking for more.

By the time we were really able to understand the needs of the families, we left. We were a little heartbroken over a few things and hope to initiate something to help out financially with the community. I mean, we have SOOOOOO much compared to these families, yet I complain EVERY day. I'm not a super complainer, don't get me wrong. But, I do find fault in something Every day. My wifi won't connect on my phone, we are out of trash bags, I forgot to get printer paper at the store, my favorite TV show isn't on tonight, and so on. Silly things. Unimportant things. Yet, I am not satisfied or Joyful.

I learned a lot from these amazing Mexican families. Jerret and I have agreed that we enjoyed the experience so much that we are very interested in doing it again in the future.

The end of the trip also brings me to the lowest of lows for our little family. Its not anything health related or severe, it just helped put a lot MORE into perspective for us.

The little man, the love of our lives, the one we have THOUSANDS of photos of....the Big E-man....was Extremely mad/confused/upset/frustrated/annoyed/angry/disappointed in his momma and dad for leaving him for a week.

At 19 months, he wasn't sure what was going on when Gma Al took him away in the car. I know they had a good week together and he loved seeing Gma Ash, Gpa Gordo and Gpa Mike. No doubt he enjoyed being spoiled rotten, playing with lots of doggies and visiting with his aunties.

Its just that when he returned home, he had it out for us! After jet-lag and pure exhaustion, we thought we would sleep well the first night in our beds. NOPE! Little man was up around midnight and stayed up crying, fussing, and throwing fits until 4:30a.m. It was horrible!
As if that wasn't bad enough, he ended up hitting momma Every time I told him "No-no." It has taken weeks to break his rage of hitting, smacking and bopping me. He also suffered from some anxiety issues with mom and dad leaving either with him or for work. It has been a long month of re-training our toddler to love us! I think J and I really took for granted the fact that he wouldn't remember us leaving....and HE DID. Then, when we returned we (or at least I) pictured this homecoming of love, kisses, hugs and affection. I was greeted with a smack across the face!

We realized exactly how much we LOVE to spend time with our guy and how much he really means to our family happiness. God blessed us with some extra time with little man through snow days, MLK day and my Friday's off. We have reconnected with Eph, shared stories, videos and photos of our trip and hope one day he will understand that we left him to serve others.

Pics and videos to come of our time together this month.

Mexico....the final day

2011-01-23T14:34:00.004-06:00

I have more Mexico posts for those visitors to our blog, but I wanted to share the reveal of the home we built for the family. The prayer is amazing and brought me to tears. I hope you enjoy seeing this small snip it of our time in Mexico. I hope to have a montage/video and lots of picture posts to share very soon!

2010 in Review

2010-12-30T14:32:00.007-06:00

We had an amazing year. 2010 was a great year and we are SO thankful. God blessed us in SO many ways! This is our 2010 recap (with the rest of the updates on older posts!)....Santa 2010

LAST Christmas. We have come SO far!

From sitting up, to crawling to walking.

With lotsa love from our families

From Lots of naps, to two naps, to ONE!

New friendships with those we love! (Cousin Noah with E!)

Tons of time with all THREE Grandmas this year!

New toys and adventures

A whole lot of cuteness

New experiences (and remembering them!)

New places and lots of mommy & daddy time!

A FIRST birthday!

Healthy, happy and employed parents!

A bunch of fun in 2010!

We continue to be blessed and know that God has great things for us in 2011, too. Happy New Year!

Christmas Card

2010-12-07T09:38:00.001-06:00

Fun Holiday Wishes Christmas

Make a statement with custom Christmas cards at Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

Shutterfly cards--MY FAV!

2010-12-06T15:38:00.003-06:00

This post will be my opinion on Shutterfly's holiday cards. I have always loved Shutterfly because of their fair prices and great codes/deals on photos, cards, and photo gifts. I started an account for the 50 free prints, and was immediately hooked. In previous years, I have done a variety of holiday cards--including Shutterfly. I like the modern designs and the classic ones too. Click here to see some of their options this year!

The HARDEST part about Shutterfly is making a decision! Seriously! The shipping is fast and easy, the uploading is just as quick. Using their site is simple....its just DECIDING what to pick! I've made some amazing photo mugs for my parents. They were so beautiful they won't even drink out of them! The coffee mugs are just great.

In years past, I made a calendar for Jerret. He would get it as a gift and take it to work (to think of me all the time :) This year, I'm going to make one for our family so we can see how Ephraim has grown. Each year in 2011 will have a photo of him that month in 2010~ I thought it was clever! Here is a link http://www.shutterfly.com/calendars/

I do love Shutterfly's holiday card options, but there are great ones for Thank Yous and Birthday Cards, too!

For writing this post, Shutterfly is giving me 50 holiday photo cards. I know this gift for my review will go over great with the family and friends receiving the holiday cards!

Happy Holidays!

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-12-01T15:00:00.005-06:00

Everything in life is new. Rain is a weird concept. Its wet and coming from everywhere. People make you giggle, for no reason. Jumping (or as I call it "bummmppp") is entertaining ANYWHERE. My cousin, the big kid, teaches me how to play cops and robbers. I take Ham off the nearly ready Thanksgiving table and shove it in my mouth as fast as possible....mom catches me. This ham stuff that grandpa smoked is amazing. Green beans have a new look--in a casserole. I learn how to run in circles around the couch and Not fall down. I still don't like to sleep anywhere but my own bed. I stay up all night crying/fussing because I want to sleep in my bed. I sleep the whole car ride to grandmas. I taste this orange stuff....called pumpkin pie. I LIKE it. I get photos taken with my cousin. We could hardly sit still.

--Memories from Ephraim's Thanksgiving 2010

I am SOOOO Thankful for just SO many things. I am so thankful for my family, friends, church community and jobs. We have SO much when I look back to where we started. Jerret and I were both single, living in inexpensive apartments in Carbondale. We both had huge aspirations of being leaders in companies. Little did we know that God had different plans for us. Down a windy road and end up at today....we have a great little family. I'm just so thankful for Ephraim and the joy he brings me (nearly!) everyday. (Hey, he is approaching 2....he can't help it somedays!) Its so amazing to see the world in his eyes, to be unconditionally loved by him and to share and show that love to him, too.
This Thanksgiving I'm also thankful for HEALTH. For our families' health, safety and happiness, too. We have had a few medical scares, but God has provided healing. I'm so thankful for our jobs, our house and our church. We have clothes, cars, and money for food. While it seems we don't have "it all" sometimes, that is because we are comparing to unrealistic and selfish worldy views. In terms of MY life, MY family and MY God, we currently have it all....and, I'm thankful.

Three Ways to GIVE to Missions for the Batsons

2010-11-24T08:48:00.003-06:00

Feeling especially GIVING this time of year? We hope you are! Jerret and I are raising funds for a Mexico mission trip that is QUICKLY approaching! Due to some amazing people, I have THREE awesome ways you can help support us!

Pampered Chef--all Julie's commission will go to our trip! SHOP NOW

Shop for Thirty-One gifts (bags, purses, storage and MORE!) 25% of ALL sales is going to our trip! SHOP NOW!

Live in St. Louis? Bring your kids or pets to Storytime with Santa! Click here for more details.

For those who have already helped us through prayers, financial donations and encouragement, we REALLY appreciate it! We hope you have a great Thanksgiving!

HURRY! The deals and money to missions won't last long!!
Love,
Jerret and Stephanie (& Eph)

Storytime with Santa

2010-11-17T19:59:00.005-06:00

Storytime with Santa and Family Photos!

Parents and kids hate long lines at the mall. This year, make a change. Register TODAY for a 45 minute session with your kids and a small group of other kids and Santa.
No waiting, no stress, no over-priced photos, or cranky kids.

Rooftop's own Greg Herndon will be taking some of the photos! (Another photographer will be announced soon!)

It's Simple!

Who: You and your kids!
What: Storytime with Santa & Photos (on a CD)
When: Saturday, December 4 from 8am-Noon
Where: Rooftop Community Church, 6915 Weber Road, Affton, MO
Cost: $40 per family or $25 for one child
Full payment (non-refundable unless a replacement is found) is due by November 30!
Don't wait! Call today!

How it works:
Arrive at the church, checkin.
Get a quick photo for ID purposes (parents included).
Kids sit in a circle.
Santa arrives.
Santa reads a story.
Children/family names drawn for photos with Santa.
After families are done with photos, enjoy a quick snack (test the milk and cookies for Christmas Eve!) and off you go!

We will give additional details for pickup of your CD of Santa and
kid photos the day of the event.

Use the photos in your baby books, for holiday cards, and scrapbooks!

To register:
Email collinsbatson@gmail.com or call Stephanie at 314-882-1760

Halloween 2010--times FIVE

2010-10-31T21:17:00.011-05:00

We celebrated Halloween FIVE times this year!
1. At Doisy
2. At Purina
3. At Daycare
4. Trunk or Treat at Church
5. Halloween Night!

We are tired, but had a blast!!!

My guy getting ready on Halloween night!

Trying to get this kiddo on camera is hard!

E with our neighbor friends

Chasing the puppy around the house Halloween night!

Trunk or Treat. J has C, a friend's baby from church!

Puppy on the move!

Trunk or Treat...Momma and E in the trunk!

Family photo at the trunk or treat!

E, the bat, at daycare! Eating a yummy cookie

E and daddy at Purina! Arf Arf!

Editing for momma at Doisy! E came to work with me one day!

Vampire momma with her little bat boy!

E is eating pretzels in mommy's messy office

Visit to T-town, October

2010-10-24T20:59:00.003-05:00

We went home to do some business and daddy stayed home to study! He had lots of tests and homework to do....and, momma took the trip by herself to Tremont. It was rough trying to get the little guy to sleep in a new place, but it was fun with the fam!

Couldnt get enough of this "home" phone. We don't have one!

Ashley King cut Eph's hair at her new shop, A Touch of Style in East Peoria area!
(He is crying because he is ONE, not because of AshleY!)

Silly boy with Gram

Double Trouble!

Cousins!

messy time

Eckerts AGAIN!

2010-10-16T20:24:00.005-05:00

I planned a family trip to Eckerts. SURE, we were all tired from the day, but we had a great time seeing the kiddos play, pick and be cute! See below! Pictured is: Grandpa Lummy, Grandma Rena, Grandma Alice, Grandpa Gordon, Cousin Noah, Uncle Bill, Cousins Marci and Avery, and lots of other people, animals and scarecrows!

Oh boy oh boy! Summer 2010

2010-09-27T20:28:00.009-05:00

Summer 2010
A lot has gone on over the last month! I'll try to capture some of little guys actions, trips and outings! He is SUCH a blessing in our lives.

The kiddo started walking....on his own September 9. First steps were Thursday, August 19. I'm working a video, but don't have it up online yet.

We love hanging with E and going outside with him. He is a great eater and LOVES his veggies. We are trying to spend as much time as possible with him despite the busy stuff in our lives.

Eckerts!

E picked at shared an apple with daddy-o

Happy on a tractor! Woah, loved it!

Trying to get a cute pic on a pumpkin...this was it.

Loves giving out love! Kisses for daddy-o.

I tried to get the two cousins INSIDE the tepee, but this was as close as I got. Too much to see and do at the Science Center

E is trying to show Grandpa Lummy how to fish! HA. Just teasing!
He is practicing!

"This is my boom stick." Matching orange shirts for J's birthday!

Grandma Alice giving the cousins a bath!

E at the Science Center...boy, he loved those trains!

Noah fishing at the Science Center!

A smoky tornado

My handsome guy...at the beginning of our Science Center trip!

J & S in Mexico...Yes, on camels

Steph's fav place...the beach!

At Gma Alice's. Acting silly on the couch

Pirate show at the Science Center with Daddy, Mommy & Eric

Gramps & E after swimming in Grandpa's new pool! FUN

Selective Listening

2010-09-17T13:39:00.003-05:00

I seriously write about one to two blogs in my head every day. I just never log in to put them here. I would like to blog more about my thoughts and E's growth. We will see how it goes. Hang in with me on this one!

The other night my hubby said "Huh?" "What?" and was referring to something we spoke about previously. He couldn't remember the details we discussed. The next night, it was me saying "Huh? What are you talking about?" We were both guilty of not FULLY listening to one another.

Both my boys LOVE to talk. I just get so confused about WHAT I should listen to when J wants to talk about his home improvement projects or discuss his career. I know the answer should be that I listen carefully to everything....but when we have a family of talkers, analytical thinkers, and communicators its pretty hard to listen all the time!

This recent week's events got me thinking about how I choose to listen to selective things my husband, mother and coworkers say to me. (I'm being honest here, and I think it could be mutual for most parties. ) I want to know everything, but sometimes I'm so self-centered on my problems, activities or events that I really miss deepening a friendship or relationship with family.

I also realized that this TOTALLY applies to God in my life. I keep praying for an open heart, to be able to listen to God speak to me in my life....but really, I KNOW He is there. I know HE is telling me things, but I am just too busy to listen OR I don't want to do it His way and so I just selectively listen to him. I don't deepen our relationship or grow from the "uh...huh, God. Sounds good. Talk to you later. Ba-bye" conversation with Him. Matt, the lead pastor at my church home Rooftop Community Church, said something a while ago. He said, "God's people do God's Will....GOD'S WAY." I know God was speaking to me that day, I printed out the quote three times and have it in my office. Well, now its been there a few months gathering dust and I just don't listen to it the same way I did when I first put it up there.

I guess my question is facetious, but here it is anyway : How can I be open to hear God when I choose to selectively listen to His word?

I'm challenged to listen more intently and when I spend time with God, to REALLY spend time with him. Proverbs 1:5 tells us "Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance." I hope to be a better listener to gain more knowledge and guidance from the Lord!

Magic House Play Date

2010-08-04T15:40:00.006-05:00

Eph and I met up with my friend from work, Kameron, and her son Jakob. The two boys were born one week apart. Too fun. The boys really enjoyed the toddler section at the Magic House. We enjoyed it, too. Some parts were great for moms. We could even relax in the lego area!

Practicing driving a boat for next summer. Papa Lum plans to take his grandsons fishing!

Already, he looks like a pro!

E loved the farm house where you opened and closed doors. He thought it was funny, and he was pretty serious at getting the work done! Many photos to prove it!

All doors open. Petting the animals inside!

Closeup view of the "work"

So cute!

Loved the soft, big legos!

Hard to get these two movers in the same photo! Not a great one, but close enough!

Showing off his new car. Pretty proud. He "drove" at the Magic House

Serious!

Good pic of Kameron and her son, Jakob.

Sandbox area. The boys BOTH had sand around their mouths. EW! I guess I'm not exploring new textures and tastes....but still....EW!

Two guys playing in the sand.

Eph showing his shovel skills

Pic of the sand area....pretty cool!

Tigger and the Park!

2010-08-04T15:18:00.004-05:00

Jerret surprised us with a kitty in June! Mr. Tigger is the yellow cutie pie getting harassed by Eph below. No, really, Tigger just adores Eph. They play together quite often!

Momma and Eph like to take off to the park. In June and July we went a few times together. Sometimes, we met friends from Rooftop, other times we just basked in each other, the sun, and the lovely weather God blessed us with!

Picnicking for the first time. Left the blanket a few times...didn't get the concept really. Why stay on the blanket when there is a world of rocks, bugs and leaves to play in?

First time on a swing outside.

I think he likes it!

Not sure where/how to hold on, but OH so cute!

Trying to play on the big kid toys. Makes him look little!

Ran away from picnic and found dirt!

Tremont Turkey Fest 2010 June 11-13

2010-08-04T15:01:00.005-05:00

Momma was tramatized by the eating makeup incident...so the car ride was stressful. BUT, we made it to T-town and had fun. Here is E hanging at gmas!

PaPa and E

@ Festival, Bill and Momma

Batson Fam celebrating TURKEY FEST!

E was too little to ride rides....so, he watched from the stroller!

Cousin Noah riding the choo choo!

Cousin Noah waving to all his "peeps"

Strapping In--Uncle Bill helps Noah! Safety First!

Giggles with grandma. The two cousins!

Firsts: Swimming and Calling Poison Control

2010-08-04T14:53:00.003-05:00

My little guy's first summer in the pool! He just loves his froggy pool. He swam with grandmas one time...and below are the times we swam on a weekend with mommy and daddy. He is wearing his SPF sunshirt and cutie pie swim trunks!
What a cutie!

He loves the water

Pretty mad here, just wanting to get in that pool!

Trying to help with the sunscreen. Nope, we don't eat it...which leads to....
Calling poison control on June 11. He wasn't scared, but I sure was!
Yes, bub, you now have a record!

Eph enjoying momma's semi-liquid blush

Not ashamed here! It was ALL over his body and the floor. Of course, it got on his mouth because he chomped on the round container trying to eat it!

Summer 2010: Busy!

2010-08-04T14:34:00.006-05:00

I'm attempting to catch up here...So, here we are June 5. A week long celebration of my baby boy turning ONE year old! We had a keg party for Eph's college fund! It was a BBQ, too!

"Our Rockstar Ephraim is Turning One!"

Daddy and Birthday Boy

Pre-party fun! Daddy blew up a ton of balloons!

High Chair all ready!

Cake, napkins and plates....ALL ROCKIN!

Kam, Melis (with Vi) & Nate

PRESENT TIME

Jacki and Laura

Dan & Don

Actual Day...Birthday with Momma and Dad

2010-07-11T14:27:00.007-05:00

For Eph's birthday we took off work and took him to Grant's Farm and to get his haircut. (Daddy's idea) Here are our pics:

The new do

Our certificate

At the hairy elephant, kids haircut place.

In the chair, a finished haircut

All done and handsome!

Trying to figure out what is going on!

Being a good boy!

At Grants Farm, watching an elephant

It was HOT HOT HOT that day and we walked through the misters

Hanging out with the goats

We were surprised at how much he liked the goats!

On the train ride to see the animals!

(Nearly) Naked on his birthday!

Happy daddy and happy baby!
(My boys!)

Eph's birthday and fun parties pics!

2010-07-11T13:38:00.009-05:00

As promised, here they are!
(They are sorta backwards...but you will get the point!)
The families all came over the weekend before his birthday to celebrate!

Eph, Grandpa, Uncle Bill, Cousin Noah and Gram Rena!

Uncle Bill & Noah!

Handsome guys in orange!

The cake from Ash & Kroger

A WAGON!

Opening gifts...

Uncle Greg and the boys! Eek!

The dirty mess--but, hey he shared with momma!

The dirty finale!

Almost dirty

Eating with a fork!?!? How sweet!

Blowing out the candle

Fam shot!

YUM! First cake

Cute cake!

Awaiting the cake

Fam hanging out

Gram helping out and Noah supervising

Gram Alice made his outfit!

Big boy's chair, balloons and poster

Decorated Hutch

His college shirt, 1 crown and a cute bib!

A new chair from Gram Alice

Oh...I miss that long hair!

My boys cuddling...love it!

30 days!

2010-07-09T13:59:00.008-05:00

YES! It has been 30 days (or more now!) since I was able to update the blog. So.....I will attempt to remember what significant things have happened since the last post. Time is literally flying by and its really hard to keep up. You'll see why (in pictures) in a post after this one. Here we go!

Ephraim
Turned 1 year old! My baby is now officially a toddler. NO baby left in him. He is crawling at a quicker rate and talking up a STORM! I love it.
Continues to change and grow every day. I can say that I REALLY love being his momma.
Continues to love day-care and hanging out with big kids
Officially calls out "momma" and "Dada" along with tons of other "words" (like: Sadie (his first word), num num, baby, dow (down), and lots more...I cant remember!
Blows kisses and waves in a new way!
Got his first haircut
Went to the Turkey Festival!
Hung out with his cousin, Noah
Was asked to be in his Aunti Kari's wedding next June!
Loves wagon rides
Enjoys the summer heat in his froggie pool
ADORES his Little People Noah's Ark and Farm sets
Has a blast in the bath tub --and usually cries when he has to get out
Celebrated his birthday FOUR times!

Jerret
Was off school for a while
Got SUPER burnt on a float trip a few weeks ago
Has worked his buns off in the SUPER hot weather to improve the outside of our home
Started school again!
Got a new car (ok, Steph's old one!) and doesn't really love it
Has seen TONS of concerts
Seems to work too hard :)
Went to the Turkey Festival!
Had a rockin father's day
Loves his time with "Eph-man"
Dances around the house with Eph
Continues to sacrifice for his family

Stephanie
Had a fever for four days--ew yuck
Cried when her baby turned 1
Got the kiddo's FIRST haircut
Loves hanging with her guy one extra day per week
Joined a work walking group and hopes to "Walk to Madrid" over the summer
Got a new car and totally loves it!
Got to see Sex and the City 2 in the theater
Loves her Beth Moore Bible study group
Found out that lots of friends are pregnant
Had fun with the boys at the Turkey Festival
Is blessed to meet up with her Rooftop friends on Fridays
Continues to seek God's will in her life--even though its not easy for her!
Got a new kitten! Little Tigger!

I'm sure there are a few more things that went on, but I know the pictures of the birthday bashes will update :) Happy (late) 4th of July!

My Guy

2010-05-26T09:02:00.002-05:00

The little man turns ONE YEAR OLD so soon! I am really excited to celebrate with family, but when I remember what I am celebrating I get sad. I can hardly believe how quickly this year has flown by. Last night E was hanging on the couch with me and he kept trying to look at my belly. I told him "this is where you lived last year at this time." He laughed and smacked my belly to make a noise. He thought it was hilarious.

And, I can say that E's official first word was "SADIE." Jerret and I yell for her outside or say hello or goodbye to Sadie (dog) every day. I think we say her name more than each others--we just never realized it. Little man just mimics everything we do and lots of what we say.

He does say "mommy" a lot now for me. I really love it....it just melts my heart. (He still uses mama or mommy for other things too, but he is associating it with me also!)

Louiza told me yesterday that a little boy said something like "Ew. Barbie. Yuck" in response to another child at daycare. Eph copied the boy and said Uuuk. (or his yuck). They are big sponges right now!

We have really been blessed lately! We have a replacement car from Jerret's accident with minimal issues. And, the best part is....I GET TO DRIVE IT :) Jerret is so patient with me....but he did say I could drive the new vehicle. I just love it. A Honda CRV!

Summer and the heat is at our door. I'm just excited to watch E enjoy the summer and his first birthday. Pics to come after the first celebration (yes, we are having 2 celebrations!)
Stay cool!

Schlafly and Mother's Day

2010-05-16T15:57:00.004-05:00

When Julie was in town, we went to Schlafly with E. He wore his new shirt from Grandma. The cute blue one with a guitar. He likes to show off for the camera now. What a sweetpea :)

Doing SO BIG after dinner

Eph really liked Julie :)

My "cheese" smile.

Family on Mother's Day

Zoo

2010-05-16T15:33:00.004-05:00

The Zoo!

Buckled in and ready!

Our church and playdate friends :)

Eph loves to be tickled :)

The orangutans came right next to the window for the kiddos to see!

E was amazed!!!!

A relaxing day at the Zoo! We had fun walking and talking and letting the kids explore the zoo.

11 month-old Boy. SO big & Friends

2010-05-16T15:15:00.003-05:00

My boy is grown. I am so proud to have been E's mommy for this first year. I can't describe how amazing and hard it is to be a mom. It is the best feeling in the world. Here are some photos of his 11th month of life. My guy is so sweet, but does like to throw a little tantrum if he doesn't like what you take away/move him from/put him to bed.

How BIG are you? SOO BIG!

When Spaz died, gram Rena gave me the little "Spaz looking" cat that I once gave her. Eph LOVES this stuffed cat that sits on the fireplace. Here, he is talking to Spaz and smiling!

He is hanging out with Grandma! They are laughing and giggling here.

On Fridays, I try to get out and visit with other kids or moms. Here E is with Miaad, my ESL friend. She is due in August with her first son : )

Miaad, E, Me and Miaad's mother-in-law.

Car accident

2010-05-09T21:54:00.004-05:00

Jerret's car accident was quite scary. I have photos of what his poor car look like, but not his bruising and marks. He is so blessed to have been spared and protected by God. We could have had a really, really bad week. I was able to stay home Thursday to help take him to a few doctor appointments. At the moment, it looks just like bruising is the only thing wrong. We are awaiting the results of a final CT scan early in the week.
A few quick details: Jerret was run off the road intentionally by another driver (who left the scene) in the city Wednesday night. He ran into a telephone poll to avoid an accident and the airbags went off and he and JD were not taken to the ER. The damage to the car is pretty bad. We are blessed that both boys were protected and are (seemingly) ok from the accident.

Thank you for your prayers.

So..whats with the blog?

2010-05-04T11:08:00.002-05:00

This post won't have any photos....and, I feel guilty. Oh well. I write all these AMAZING (let me tell yoU!) blogs in my head, but I rarely actually post/write them on the computer. So, I thought I would blog about this blog. I am still confused about what I think the blog should be....I originally wanted it to be updates of our family with a little of mommy's opinion. Well, it turned into "I just want pictures" from the grandparents.

So, I thought to myself, I have thoughts and opinions I can share with my readers! I mean, don't you want to know what is going on in my life? Twitter, facebook and email just isn't enough updates for you!

I'm a decent writer and I think I'm pretty funny. So, this blog should be amazing! I find myself organizing and planning what I write and post. To me, that is a newsletter, not a blog. So, I will ATTEMPT to post more (with or without pictures and/or guilt!) And write more mommy comments to provide a rich description of our lives :) That way, you can SEE how cute E is and also read about how cute he is.

Cuteness example #1 My boy is a clapper now. SUPER cute when the little hands make that small little smack smack noise. I love it
#2 Miss L. at daycare taught him "SO BIG". He raises his hands (usually) to show you how big he is. I just love it.
#3 He knows how to give kisses. Sometimes, he just isn't into it.
#4 His army crawling has NOT evolved. He is too happy scootching on his belly or turning circles while sitting up. He DOES go from belly to sitting up by himself and rocks a little, but shows minimal signs of actually doing a "real crawl."

Some NOT so cute things:
#5 Teething! We have TONS of teeth now. These teeth have been hard and are giving fever/restless nights. LOTS of cuddling with mommy, though.....
#6 TEMPER issues. Little man has figured out HOW to express being dissatisfied. Not super charming, but a milestone met. We at least know when he is not happy and try to figure out why.
#7 Throwing food at dinner. We are frustrated, Sadie dog is happy. Enough said.

So, E is growing, learning and a HUGE sponge. He has words for Sadie, Arf Arf (what sadie does!), Num Num, Mama, Dada, U-oh, A-cho and maybe a few others. The kid is VOCAL! He is loud and he knows it. Its cute to hear him babble at toys or blankets.

We are so loving this beautiful weather with baby boy. He LOVES to be outside and enjoys our daily walks. He is a good baby and continues to bless us!

We are staying involved at Rooftop Community Church as much as possible. Its hard with work, teaching, class, family and baby. I'm in a Bible study with some women and have been blessed by the friendships and work that God is showing us. We have participated in some annual events and also continue to serve on Sunday mornings. God is good and we continue to learn more and trust in Him!

So, it seems this post is about all of our family and how God is working in us. Little E enjoys chewing on his Bible (its cardboard!) and will hopefully learn from his parents how to trust and love God with his own heart!

Check out my CHOMPERS!

2010-04-21T10:49:00.002-05:00

Eph's top four teeth have come in and QUICKLY! He has a "cheese" smile when the camera comes out. Luckily, I can capture a shot of his teeth. Check out this cutie pie. (Click on the picture and it will get bigger, too!)
Oh, and YES, I am aware that he needs a haircut. I was just trying to hold out until after his first birthday.....we will see how long Daddy can wait.

Cardinals Opening Day

2010-04-21T10:42:00.004-05:00

Eph is all ready for opening day! We didn't get to go to the game, but he watched some of the game on TV :) Technically, this is Eph's second Cards game. I went in late May with Jerret and his "work wife" Suzie. Suzie gave Eph this ball shortly after he was born. Go Cards!

My Big Guy!

2010-04-21T10:38:00.005-05:00

So, he continues to grow. I am SO amazed at the difference in him within just a few weeks. Our babysitter is helping us teach him to crawl, walk with assistance, sign language and Italian (her, not us!) Plus, Eph eats SO good for Louiza! He loves eating what the big kids eat.

Ephraim is 10 months

2010-04-05T07:58:00.007-05:00

Batson Family, Easter 2010 @ Rooftop Community Church

Easter Egg Hunt at Home, Easter 2010

Look at all those eggs!

Smiles after the ears come off!

Tasting the eggs!

Eggs we colored!

At church!

Cute moment captured at the Church Egg Hunt!

Momma and Big Boy Eph! We got THREE eggs!

He didnt want to let go of that yellow egg!

Daddy shows Eph his eggs

Miss Erin asked "who wants some Easter eggs!?" Eph raised his hand!

Pep talk before the hunt!

Basket from Grandma (Sadie is helping!)

Sporting the I LOVE NY onesie!

I am in complete denial that my baby is 10 months old. He is looking more and more like a toddler every day and I'm sad! I can't believe that he has been out of the womb longer than he was in it. It's hard to believe that my guy weighs over 20lbs and is SUPER long! It is also hard to believe that he will be walking soon. Every time I think of all these things together, I cry. Let's face it, I'm emotional all the time. I buy, eat, and argue on emotion. So, these milestones we have passed so quickly and his growth is really hard for momma.

Some updates from a few weeks ago:

Ephraim received a visit from his Aunt Kari and NEW Uncle-to-be Ryan. They got engaged last weekend! Eph also met Diana, Ethan, Jordan and Ricci! He had so much fun being the center of attention!

Grandma Rena visited to go with me to the Kids Resale Event. It was super fun and we shopped till we dropped.

Grandma Alice drove through over Easter weekend and stopped for a bit, too.

Eph had his first Easter Egg hunt on Saturday at Rooftop Community Church. He found three eggs! He also had an egg hunt at home on Sunday. (Pics to come soon!)

Eph figured out how to roll and roll and roll to get things he wants. While other babies figure this out quickly, he figured it out a little late. He continues to scoot, roll, push and move towards all things electronic (daddy's toys!) and all things he shouldn't have! He is such a big guy!

While reminiscing about my baby, I finally edited some video. I have compiled a video and hope it will upload here! (I always have issues with slow uploading or errors!) I hope you enjoy it!

Rough week

2010-03-25T13:59:00.003-05:00

Its been a rough week, but I've pulled through! Eph, of course, is doing perfectly fine! I just had some anxieties about changing our daycare rituals and making the adjustment to daycare outside of our home.

I received my first kiss from Eph on Thursday, March 18, 2010! It was so slobbery and cute, of course I cried!

Eph is now mobile. He isn't exactly crawling, but the kid is MOVING. He scoots, slides, rolls, wiggles and grunts his way around the room. He found daddy's "toys" (surround-sound equipment stuff, dvd player, PS2, etc) in the living room. He likes to push all the shiny buttons! Super cute (so I think!)

I have made the transition to getting to a gym. Its hard to get away, but at the same time I feel so much better after I move a little. Eph was able to attend with me last Friday. He played and enjoyed the company of some big kids.

I've also recently realized that it is NOT easy to shop at Target with a 10 month old kiddo. The sales are still all there, but man its hard to get there with my little guy. I just want to spend time playing with him when I get off work, but then there are SALES and FREE stuff with couponing. I try to get to Target at least once a month.

Easter is quickly approaching and I feel the greatness of this holiday. I'm so grateful that Jesus died for our sins, so we could be saved. I hope the Easter spirit is portrayed through me to Ephraim this season.

Easter Blessings!

Mr. Jerret gets Rookie of the Year

2010-03-17T21:51:00.004-05:00

My hubby, Jerret, works at Purina. He was just recently named "Rookie of the Year" for his department. In my opinion, he is already an amazing man, but it looks like the people at Purina believe it now too! Check out the photos from his award!

My Guy!

2010-03-17T21:41:00.009-05:00

So my little guy is growing up TOO fast. At 9 1/2 months, he is certainly holding tight to his momma & daddy's heart.

At his 9 month appointment, Ephraim weighed in at 19lbs 11ounces (30%) and was 30.5 inches long (97%)! While he is not up and crawling yet, he certainly enjoys tummy time and sitting up with all his toys around him. This smart guy waves "bye bye" (even if you aren't going bye bye), stands up very well on his own and gives "kisses" (makes lip smacking if you do, too!). He is SUPER social and loves "big boys."

His cousin Noah just loves hanging out with him and tries to take care of him (by providing a paci, giving him toys and giving hugs!) Ephraim watches Noah walk, jump and run. I'm sure he will be imitating him quite soon.

Those who meet and/or care for him say things like "He is SUCH an easy going baby" or "He sure likes to Talk!" or "He is such a sweet boy." Of course we are proud and think he's just the best little man ever! 9 1/2 months is how long we waited for him in my belly and now 9 1/2 months with him, I can't ever imagine our lives without him. It seems like he has always been around :)

This update will bring some St. Patrick's day photos and some other fun 9 month events.

Enjoy--because we sure do!

He likes to look!

This is the defiant personality!

Trying to get the camera

HE WAVES!

Polka Dot St Pats Day SMILES!

SO cute!

The tongue is out a lot now!

Silly face

Lime Green JELLO for St Pat's day!

He pivots, moves and scoots backwards, but no crawling yet!

He likes to tear apart his mat and make mommy crazy!

LOVE this smile!

PJ tummy time

YES, ladies, he flirts!

The weather was SO beautiful last weekend!

We got out the slide!

I think he likes it!!!

Trying to take off the hat

Big boy at Kyra's 1st Birthday party!

Uncle JD Visits!

2010-03-04T14:25:00.003-06:00

Uncle JD came over one night and decided to change his FIRST poopy diaper. He is now officially on the (free) babysitter list! He did great and didn't even make a mess. Way to go!

I'm pretty sure he didn't want me to take a picture of this!

Working with the poo...

Success! A clean bottom and no one got hurt! LOL!

Happy Valentines Day!

2010-03-04T13:55:00.004-06:00

February 2010--Valentine's Day

While we don't go crazy on Valentine's Day, we do try to make each other feel special. I gave Jerret some much-needed gifts and a concert ticket. I got an air-pop machine to make tons of popcorn! Baby Eph just got our love : )

He is growing SO quickly I can hardly believe that he is my kiddo. Currently, he enjoys his days with LaShandra. They read, play, learn and JUMP! This kid loves to jump in his jumper, on your legs, or even while sitting down (although, this looks a bit like white man dancing!) LaShandra is such a great babysitter! She comes to our house and watches after Sadie, Snick and Eph.

LaShandra also takes Eph and Sadie on a walk everyday. They go around the neighborhood and get fresh air! Ephraim just LOVES the outside!

Mommy had to suck it up and once AGAIN clean out the clothes that don't fit. He is in 9 month clothing and some 12 month PJs. Our skinny guy can still wear his 6 month pants, but the onsies, Pjs and shirts all need to be 9 months.

Eph likes to roll around a lot in his crib. He especially enjoys watching you enter or leave the room. So, he still has a bald spot where his hair rubs, but he his hair is growing fast, too.

We switched to a closer pediatrician this month. Eph impressed the ladies at the office and just loved playing with his new doctor's bracelets. It was fun.

Eph met a friend from ESL class this month, too. Miaad had breakfast with us at St Louis Bread Co one Friday. She loved meeting him and is expecting a baby in August!

Silly boy, loves his puppy! Trying to "pet" here.

Playing with dad. This would be the "Oo. Oo. Monkey" which always gets giggles!

I think Sadie is a little scared in this one, but I thought it was cute!

Wow, is this kid flexible! Its funny to watch him fold in half!

Eph is gonna get some kisses after this pic!

I think they were both bored with posing for photos!

Daddy feeds little guy! Daddy says "I don't play games" but Eph says, lets play with our food!

Tummy Time!

February Eph is 8 Months

2010-03-04T13:40:00.003-06:00

Well, my baby boy is GROWING so fast! These photos show him doing what he loves: eating! He is a great solid food eater, but is still not excited about bottle eating. We continue to try to get him to eat out of a bottle, but we might be transitioning to a sippy cup sooner than anticipated. He loves to eat "biter biscuits" or teething cookies. They smell like graham crackers and they are really hard. His slobber breaks part of the cookie down and what you see is slobbery-melted cookie all over his hands, face and bib.

Sadie dog LOVES the smell of these cookies and usually eats what is left over at the end. (You will see her patiently waiting for a bite!)

My boy is not moving or crawling, but he sure loves to see what is going on around him. He gets distracted easily! And, when we recently visited the grandparents in DuQuoin, he noticed he was NOT in his own bed. That was a rough weekend!

Bath time is SO much fun, and he loves to splash mommy and daddy. Eph likes to "bite his arm" when he is hungry. What a silly guy! It is usually just his sleeve, but it is a good signal that the kid is hungry.

Daddy tried to take baby off his pacifier, but with a cold and not feeling well we went back to it already. He still likes the soothing aspect of his paci, and mommy is having a hard time denying him of it.

Ephraim continues to be the joy of our lives!

After math--DIRTY kid, clothes and tray!

Silly Smiles!

Happy Eater!

Ephraim almost 8 months

2010-01-26T10:09:00.004-06:00

Ephraim turns 8 months on February 1. I can hardly believe it! What a big boy! We went to our friends, Jacki and Dan's, wedding this weekend. Eph was SUCH a good boy at the wedding. Here he is all ready for the wedding! We thought he looked adorable and wanted to share : )

Mr. Spaz, Rest In Peace

2010-01-24T19:49:00.006-06:00

An entire blog devoted to my late cat, Spaz, isn't enough. He was such an awesome cat and my best friend, its hard to imagine life without him. I've had Spaz for 8 years, I got him in DuQuoin, IL in 2001 and he helped me get through SIU-C, he cuddled with me when Jerret moved to St Louis and I was still in school in Carbondale, he kept my parents company while I was in France, he moved to North Carolina and spent a lot of time outside (by sneaking out!), he ruled our first home together, he was happy when we got married, he helped me graduate from NC State, he missed me when I went to France (again), he helped us through our unemployment in North Carolina and moved back with us to St. Louis and became friends with Mr. JD. He has been the cornerstone in our lives and he will be missed--immensely. Here are some quick (ok, a lot!) photos of him that I had on my hard drive. YES, I have too many photos of my pets. I am aware that it is a problem, but now I know why God wanted me to take so many photos. LIFE IS SHORT!

Sleepy guy--keeping the chair warm!

Helping put groceries away in the cabinet!

Keeping laundry warm!

I LOVE to dress up my pets : ) Spaz, on the other hand, didn't like it so much!

Again, with the sleeping on laundry!

Smiles for the camera

Loves to be in the Christmas tree!

Exploring the new house

Halloween Time!

He's a pumpkin!

Stretching and leaving North Carolina

Saying farewell to his favorite room.

Helping pack!

Christmas in NC

Helping mom scrapbook and stamp. Its hard work being this cute!

Eph is 7 months old!

2010-01-24T19:20:00.006-06:00

January 1, 2010 Mr Ephraim turned 7 months old! I can hardly believe how big he is getting! Bath time moved from the kitchen sink to the bathtub. Little guy was kicking water around the kitchen. Still in his tub, but in the big boy tub, too. Mommy and daddy don't want him to float away in the big tub!

Little guy is sleepy with daddy

Trying to stay up for the New Year--didn't make it past 7pm!

Daddy is reading before bed time. Mr. Spaz wanted to join in!

Daddy reading to his boys!

Eph learned how to pull up his mat and was being silly!

Grandma Alic got Eph a Mickey shirt! Cute!

Ephraims FIRST Christmas!

2010-01-24T18:04:00.006-06:00

Well, we decided to stick around STL for Christmas--just in case the weather was bad. We didn't want to be on the road traveling too far with baby boy. Plus, we wanted to see the joy in his eyes when he opened presents (or mommy opened them for him!) We had Lum, Rena, Billy and Noah on Christmas day. Lum made us a yummy pork tenderloin for dinner! Then, the next day Alice, Gordo, Kari, Mike and Ash came to see baby and celebrate. What a joyous time :)
We did find out on Dec 26 that our baby Spaz was dying of kitty cancer. I was very upset and everyone in the family felt sad too. He wasn't given very long to live, but he was with us until January 19. May he rest in peace (will have another post for him!) I was so overwhelmed with emotion, that I didn't take any pictures when my in-laws were here. There are some on facebook, but I Hope to update the post after I get some of their pictures.

Eph, Christmas morning

Momma with her boys: Eph and Spaz

Eph was looking all over the place! Too much going on!

Daddy, Mommy and the boys

Grandpa Lummy and Eph

Cousin Noah

Eph with Uncle Billy

Ephraim with his FIRST Christmas present, Christmas morning!

Trying to wake daddy on Christmas morning!

Showing off on Christmas morning!

Hanging with his glow worm!

Eph in a sleep sack, Christmas Eve 2009

Pretending in his cute santa outfit. Christmas Eve, 2009

Presents, a tree and a happy baby!

Cutie pie in front of the tree!

Ephraim travels to Tremont, Dec 2009

2010-01-10T16:47:00.004-06:00

We went to Tremont to visit in December and to get some baby pics taken by Michelle. Little man loved being in front of the camera! Our pictures were on our Christmas card this year :)

Cousin Noah plays gentle with baby Eph

Great Aunt Debbie plays with Eph. He "jumps" for her!

Looking at Aunt Debbie's Christmas tree--Eph LOVED the lights!

The cousins cuddled!

6 Month Ephraim Big Boy

2009-12-09T15:47:00.007-06:00

December 1, 2009
So, Ephraim turned 6 months today. So much has happened in our six months of life together! Its hard to believe that he wasn't here 7 months ago. While I am excited to see him grow and learn, I'm also sad that he is growing so quickly!

This week we decided to stop nursing (well, Eph made that decision two months ago!) The breastfeeding thing worked so well for the first four months, but then Eph decided to go on strike. This was quite frustrating and unpleasant for a while. I tried to work with him and tried MANY things, but he wasn't having it. So, for the past two months I was exclusively pumping (about 9-10 times per day!) To say that I was worn out does not even begin to describe how I felt. See, I would pump for 10-15 minutes and still have to feed Eph a bottle, wash the parts and feed him cereal. It was a FOOD cycle and I was wearing thin. So, while I do miss the bonding time we had with nursing, I don't miss pumping! I know that he got all the good milk for the first six months, and thought that would be a nice goal to attain. I wish I could have done it longer, but it was stressing me out too much. So, I have stopped nursing and its been emotional: happy, sad, frustration, relief, and relaxation. I feel as if I have more time to focus on my baby, myself and my family. It just felt right, so I did it.

At Eph's 6 month appointment with Dr. Collier, he was 17lbs 15ounces and 27 inches long! He is in the 60% for height! We are excited--and can already tell he is a long boy!

Ephraim's new favorite things to do include: Jumping in his rainforest jump-a-roo, reading books, jumping on your legs, and laughing at Sadie dog. He still enjoys munching on his toes, sucking on his fingers and screaming/laughing/talking.

His personality is starting to come through! Its so sweet to see him think through or ponder at things in his life. He REALLY is a little sponge!

Daddy got a new guitar and was strumming it in front of the little man. He started to SING (not talk, not scream....really sing!) No one prompted him or anything! It was so CUTE! Daddy is learning some new guitar things, so I think Eph will be involved in that too. Ephraim has a leapfrog guitar he likes to play with, so I think he is trying to be like his daddy : )

Ephraim has two little teeth that just popped out! The first one was on his right side bottom tooth, and now his left is quick to follow only a day later. No WONDER he was up all night for a week. His little mouth was hurting! We are excited to see the teeth, but Eph is reluctant to let us in for a feel. He thinks we are putting that yucky tasting baby orajel on his gums. He perfers to purse his lips and deny us access, so we have to be more crafty at getting into his little mouth!

Eph is such a joy in our lives, we are so happy to have been blessed by God with this little child!

Mommy dressed

Calling all the grandparents!

Watching Obama on TV

Happy Jumper Guy!

Eating a Mum Mum! Yum Yum!

Posing for the camera

Sitting up, big guy!

Laughing at Mommy

His smile melts my heart!

Mommy makes me looks SO cute for these pictures!

Close up!

My little man is growing TOO fast!!!

Ephraim's Baby Dedication at Rooftop Community Church

2009-12-08T21:48:00.006-06:00

Ephraim was dedicated at church Sunday, November 30, 2009 at second service. He was greeted on stage by Pastor Matt, our friend from small group. Pastor Matt saw Eph grow in mommy's belly and is so supportive of our family. Eph was a little grumpy that day and wasn't his usual self, so he was quiet on stage. The few times he went to small group at Matt's house he "talked" or jabbered the whole time (hmmm...sound like anyone you know?) He liked all the lights, guitars and people to stare at, that is for sure. Matt asked Mom and Dad if we would care for him and raise him in a Christian home, then Matt asked the congregation (which included all types of the grandparents!). The answer for both was "I do." So great to know we have a a church family who is supportive and helpful in raising our kiddos. The dedication was quick, but meaningful to our family!

Pastor Matt with Eph, Steph and Jerret

After church, little man was pooped! Sleeping on Gram Alice

Cheesing it up with Gram Ashley

Collins Clan at Rooftop! Lum, Bill and Rena

A prayer for my little guy

Pastor Matt with Ephraim, S & J on stage : )

Our family with the cake!

Grandpa Lummy and Little man Eph. (They are making the same smirk!)

The cake!

At Church, the Batson Fam on Eph's big day

Photo Shoot

2009-11-30T19:17:00.005-06:00

November 2009

Jerret decided to take a trip and get some outdoor photos of Eph. It was 65 degrees outside and gorgeous. We tried to find places we could "hide" while still holding him up. It was pretty fun and tiring. Jerret is actually better at taking shots of Eph, but I took a few good ones too. We are at a cemetery in Affton. We thought it would be pretty....and it was. It was quiet, reflective and colorful. I just love my boys!

Talking about Jesus and the cross. Daddy and Eph

Attempting to get a cute shot, but the boy would NOT close his mouth!

Hope for the future, for love and for Eph.

Cracking up at Hope

Thinking of hope

Cute colors and cute pants!

I love this one!

Smiles!

Yummy fingers!

Big guy!

Funky Tree

Thinking

Cute

Flying!

Check me out. I'm a big guy!

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-11-30T16:42:00.005-06:00

Thanksgiving 2009
Eph's first Thanksgiving. And, let me tell you, I am SO thankful for him and Jerret. They are the light of my life : ) I'm thankful for Jerret because he always knows when to lighten the mood or tell a joke to make me laugh. He keeps me thinking, even when I'm tired and don't want to. He take such great care of Eph and loves him to pieces. Jerret is caring, honest, and dependable. A man I fall in love with more every day : )

I'm so thankful for Ephraim because he is such a sweet baby. His smile brings tears to my eyes, his eyelashes bring envy! He already loves music and wants to wiggle to the songs at church, I can tell music will be a big part of his life. His sweet kisses and cuddles always warm my heart. I'm so thankful he was born this year, I can hardly describe it!

Batson Family November 2009!

Mama and Eph in the kitchen!

Eph crashed out on PaPa Mike's lap

Mike and Eph

Grandpa Gordon and Ephraim watching FOOTBALL!

5 1/2 Month Ephraim continues

2009-11-30T07:14:00.004-06:00

Eph is growing SO fast. I can hardly believe it. Here are his 5 1/2 month shots...or somewhere around there.

Handsome man ready for church!

Trying to kick off those shoes!

He giggles at mommy!

Teething but no teeth yet : )

Hello Ladies!

Big boy!

Again, with the smiles!

Cute poses for the camera! I'm a supported sitter!

Baby Boy is growing!

2009-11-29T20:43:00.002-06:00

So He Grows!

Ready to go Targeting

Playing his guitar!

Have to be strapped in now!

All smiles!

Sleepy boys : )

Eph's first Ear Infection

2009-11-05T11:21:00.003-06:00

Eph and some pumpkins...or, my pumpkin with some pumpkins : )

BOO!

Its orange!

Check out the big guy!

Bumbo man. AKA: Grandma's Little Pumpkin

So, baby boy has his first ear infection. We went to Dr. Lora's office last Friday after she heard his cough, congestion and about his sleepless nights. He was given some antibiotics and we headed for home. He has been taking the meds good (this kid eats like his mommy!). While this isn't something I am excited about, it seems that Ephraim is still a really happy baby despite being a little under the weather.

I also believe little man has been teething off and on. I am wondering when I'll see some little tooth buds under those gums. Not wishing my baby's life away....just wondering : ) He remains in good spirits throughout, but still is not sleeping well. We hope his sleeping habits are too disrupted by his teething and ear infections. We also pray for a little sleep for mommy and daddy and that Eph's health improves quickly.

I'll update some photos tonight when I get home. My little man is growing DAILY! I go to work and come home and he is a different guy. I had some tears when I realized he had "little boy" hair. He lost a lot of his newborn hair, but now his hair is growing in....and its little boy cute spikey hair. Not as thin as baby boy hair. This, too, means my guy is growing up : ( Happy and sad at the same time.

We are still trying to get Eph off his nursing strike, but with his cold/teething/ear infection who knows if he will want to do it much soon. Keep praying for us : )

Happy First Halloween Ephraim!

2009-10-31T19:02:00.004-05:00

October, 31, 2009
We had fun at our church's TRUNK or Treat--we opened our trunk and shared candy with the other little church kiddos. Ephraim was a hit...he was a guitar and mom and dad where hippies carrying their cutie pie guitar! Here are the pics

Eph wanted to keep the paci....but we kicked it for the celebration!

Sideways guitar!
ALL Smiles!
At church in our candy bowl : )
Daddy playing the guitar!
Mommy cuddles the guitar
Guitar man checks out cutie pie Octopus, Kyra :)
Three hippies!
Sleepy guitar guy!

New York CITY!

2009-10-31T17:46:00.007-05:00

October 27, 2009

Rena and Steph head to New York City to celebrate Stephanie's 28th Birthday!

We sure had an AWESOME time!!!!!!

Over 4 1/2 months of little Ephraim

2009-10-31T15:32:00.005-05:00

October 21, 2009
Ephraim is growing SO fast. Here are some photos I should have posted a couple of weeks ago!

Ephraim sits in his high chair and shows off his Grandma bib

Toys on high chair

A little wave while playing in his new high chair

Another cutie pie outfit from Aunt Kari and Uncle Ry

What a sweetheart!

Big Boy Ephraim

2009-10-15T20:24:00.008-05:00

October 15, 2009--4 and a 1/2 months old!

I can't really remember now how old in weeks my little guy is. I was always wanting him to be the "older" week....so even if he was IN his 12 week, I would say "nearly 13 weeks!" I know, I know, its a little silly, but I wanted my little guy to be a big guy. Now, at 4.5 months old, he is a BIG boy and I wish he was little again.

Ephraim has rolled from his back to his belly, started saying his vowels and consonants (today its MMMM as, in for MOMMY!), and is actually scooting around when he is on his back. Daddy continues to get little guy to laugh by making silly faces and playing with him. Eph gets a really determined look on his face while kicking. Also, when he is super excited (usually about food!) he starts kicking like crazy. This kid is ready to move!

Little guy started on some rice cereal and is weighing in at 14lbs 14 ounces! He continues to get most of his nutrition from breast milk. He is growing SO much everyday its crazy. Jerret and I just love spending time with him and watching him grow! Here are some photos to update. Maybe a video, if blogger lets me :)

Mid-kick photo

Cutie Pie Smile--Melts my Heart!

Mommy's cuddle bug

Ephraim at 18 & 19 weeks

2009-10-09T21:22:00.004-05:00

My boy is so big! He had his 4 month appointment last week and he weighs 14lbs 14ounces. NEARLY 15 pounds. What a big guy! He is nearly 25 inches long. My guy is now laughing out loud and has found his feet. The time is flying by, but I just love being his mommy : )
Picture updates below : )

Go State

Eph is talking to his new buddy, GlowWorm

Bath Time Fun!

Smiles!

Cuddle Bug with Sadie Mae

New Music from Harry Connick Jr

2009-10-08T13:46:00.007-05:00

So, I had the opportunity to listen to the NEW Harry Connick Jr CD
and it is just AWESOME : ) I thought I would share some links and an OH so YUMMY photo for my friends and family readers. The CD is classic romantic music for your heart! Enjoy!

Visit his website at http://www.harryconnickjr.com/

You can watch the behind-the-scenes video
of Harry making the new album http://bit.ly/HCJrVideo

Ephraim at 16 and 17 weeks!

2009-09-27T19:11:00.007-05:00

September 2009

My little guy is growing like crazy...I can hardly believe I take him to the doctor for his 4 month checkup THIS week. He is such an amazing little blessing in our lives. Being a mom has really changed me (for the better!) and I'm so glad God has blessed us with this healthy miracle.

And, here he is......
Daddy and Eph in their brown hoodies

Acting Silly!
Cute in Camo
His shirt says "Grandpas or Bust!"

Those eyes are amazing....
Grams Ash and Eph on the Spa night!
Eph and Snickers chillin on the bed together : )
Beauty in Green!
He is thinking!

Ephraim at 14 & 15 weeks!

2009-09-27T16:51:00.008-05:00

We went to Tremont for Carmen and Curt's wedding...

S& J

Ashley (the night she met her new man friend!) and Jerret dancing

Lum and Rena

Steph and the Bride, Carmen!
Grandma Rena and tummy time with Eph
Supported Sitter!

Great Aunt Debbie with Ephraim

Grandpa Lummy with Ephraim

Trying cereal for the first time! He ate it well and wanted more!

Grandpa and Ephraim below in a cute video!!!

Life is good and so are we!

2009-09-27T16:36:00.005-05:00

September 27, 2009

So, life is good and so is the Batson family. While we could all use a little more sleep (little man has decided to NOT sleep through the night anymore) we are doing great, super healthy and happily adjusting to the craziness of our lives.

Updates: Jerret started his MBA classes--super stressful, so please keep him in your prayers. Steph is back to work and....having a hard time adjusting to work/baby time/wife time/personal time. It seems there are always adjustments and while work is challenging and engaging, it is also a little stressful and overwhelming. Steph is volunteering with ESL students one night a week.

I will have some photos to post here after this post...please stick with us! We love getting comments about our posts and keeping everyone updated about little Ephraim and our family!

We have some photo catching up to do!

Ephraim at 12 weeks.....

Cute little belly!

Favorite thing to do--chew on fingers!

Cute surprise face!

He really does love his bumbo chair--just too many pics!

All smiles!

Ephraim's Florida Trip

2009-09-02T05:39:00.011-05:00

10 Week Ephraim

We have had a lot of changes around since the last blog post. I hope everyone loves these updates! Brought to you by a 5am feeding : ) (But I did forget my glasses, so forgive me if there are typos, weird pictures. I am squinting a little!)

The Batson crew rented a beach house in Florida and Jerret, Eph and I took the long 4 hour drive down to see Auntie's Kari and Rayna and Gram Ash and Gramps Mike. It was a fun and relaxing time. Jerret and I also celebrated our 3rd wedding anniversary together! (Our 9th year total, though, together.

Ephraim was 10 weeks when we went to Florida!

Cutie Pie in his beep beep shirt

BEACH BUM!

Eph and daddy at the beach (sorta!)

Devil horns from Auntie Kari in the pool

Swim gear

Our family dinner night out

Ephraim's first visit to the POOL!

Aunt Ray

Really, Kari is doing all the work here : )LOL

Grandma feeding the babe.

Grandpa Mike and Eph

Ocean

Ryan, Eph and Kari

Breakfast!

Pool Fun

We have had a lot of changes around since the last blog post. I hope everyone loves these updates! Brought to you by a 5am feeding : ) (But I did forget my glasses, so forgive me if there are typos, weird pictures. I am squinting a little!)

The Batson crew rented a beach house in Florida and Jerret, Eph and I took the long 4 hour drive down to see Auntie's Kari and Rayna and Gram Ash and Gramps Mike. It was a fun and relaxing time. Jerret and I also celebrated our 3rd wedding anniversary together! (Our 9th year total, though, together.

Ephraim was 10 weeks when we went to Florida!

Big Boy at 9 Weeks

2009-08-08T22:20:00.007-05:00

August 6, 2009

So, I am actually posting this at the end of 9 weeks, but I thought better late than never! My little man is TALKING a ton. Not the real word talking, but baby talking and I've been trying for days to get a little on camera. He just started doing it all together, so I DID capture it on our little camera. The video is shakey and not super great (plus you might have to turn your head to see it!) BUT, he is such a big boy and talking like his daddy : ) (IT IS AT THE END--I had issues uploading and it finally worked there!)

This dream world of not working outside the home and getting paid (maternity leave) is awesome. I am SO relaxed and enjoying the time with my little one. We play everyday during his happy time and cuddle when he is sleepy and I peer while he actually sleeps. I'm ready to start having more conversations with adults; however, I am SO going to miss all our time together!

Mr. Eph had his 2 month appointment this week. With it, we had crying and tears, but also some great news! He weighs 11 lbs 11.5 ounces (nearly 12 pounds!!) and is 23.5 inches long. He is doing super with growing and weight gain. We are so happy!

Prayers for friends and family who need jobs, houses sold/bought smoothly, friends/church members/coworkers who are sick and need healing, friends who have lost relatives recently, family and friends who need to know more about God...Praises for our families opportunities in life, that we can continue to show our love for one another, for children, for our jobs that we still have, for awesome friends and family and for God's grace.

Cutie Pie!

I guess spaz wanted to go on a walk with us this time!

Cute guy

Got this one during tummy time!

Photo shoot!

Little Pooh Bear Feet

Hanging Out!

Mr. JD gets some baby time before he moves out!

Nearly a smile on camera!

Seriously, mom how many pictures can you take of me?

This is SOOOO cute!!!!!!!

2 Month Old Ephraim!

2009-07-29T14:00:00.008-05:00

July 27, 2009

Ephraim is officially 2 months old this week! I can hardly believe it. He is 8 weeks old, which means I have very few days/weeks left before returning to work. Keep us in your hearts as we get closer to another transition: work AND a kid!

God has really blessed us with visits from friends and family lately. I have some photos to update : )

Big Boy Eph!

First time with shoes on...he doesn't really like them!

Almost a smile! On his "happy pad" changing pad that is super soft! He always smiles, laughs and talks on his happy pad! I HAD to take the happy pad to Tremont!

Up close of the big guy!

PaPa Lum talks to Eph on the happy pad!

Cousins! Eph and Noah!

Little Noah is now 2! Aunt Pooh and Noah

Eph with Uncle Billy

These two are gonna be trouble!

Jacque, Claire and Eph

We traveled to Dwight to see the Finks!

Lucas and baby Eph!

Carol, Rachel and Ephraim

Carol and Eph!

Pretty dresses for Carmen's bridal shower!

Carmen is opening her gifts at the shower--it was at Mackinaw Winery! Yum!

Great Aunt Debbie with Noah and Ephraim

Evan and Ephraim!

2009-07-22T22:05:00.004-05:00

Dean and Ephraim (BABY SWAP!)The Evan B and Ephraim B met on Friday, July 17! Momma and Daddy are doing well, but I had to share the pictures of E's first play date!!!!

Steph and Evan! (BABY SWAP!) Evan felt SO light compared to carrying around Ephraim all day

Evan and Eph in Kathy (left) and Kim's (right) hands!

Hey, we are trying to talk here!

My baby looks like a giant next to the newborn, Evan!

Weekend Visitors

2009-07-22T21:45:00.008-05:00

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

We had some weekend visitors who helped me this weekend. It was a lot of work and a lot of fun! The pictures tell the story....
Jerret is dirty and tired!

Beth & Eph

Little guy likes his chair we got at the church swap meet (called Hodge Podge!)

We had a cowboy visit and help roof with Jerret, thanks Chuck! This pick is for you!

Mike and J talk roof talk.

Ashley & Ephraim Napping

Ashley changes her FIRST diaper!

First reaction to the diaper change

Beth came by for a day.

The boys taking a break

Mom-O-Clock

2009-07-22T21:10:00.008-05:00

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Guess what time it is? It's Mom O'Clock.

While I knew that it would be different becoming a mommy, but this weekend really tested me. I was mom to many (young and old) and I'm just POOPED!

Baby is crying--It's Mom O'Clock
Daddy hurt his hand--It's Mom O'Clock
Baby needs a diaper changing--It's Mom O'Clock
Dogs need fed--It's Mom O'Clock
Daddy needs food--It's Mom O'Clock
Family needs photos=--It's Mom O'Clock
Cats need fed--It's Mom O'Clock
Daddy needs things from Lowes--It's Mom O'Clock
Baby needs food--It's Mom O'Clock
House needs cleaning--It's Mom O'Clock
Daddy needs water--It's Mom O'Clock
Dogs puke--It's Mom O'Clock
Baby needs food--It's Mom O'Clock
Daddy needs medicine--It's Mom O'Clock
Baby needs diaper changed--It's Mom O'Clock
If Mommy needs a nap--IT'S GRANDMA O'CLOCK

Some photos of the roof weekend...and all my source of exhaustion.

Kirsten, Jerret and Bill

THe boys are tired by now...Jerret and JD

Jerret in the trash : )

Billy being silly!

Smiles and Summer Fun

2009-07-16T13:43:00.006-05:00

He smiles for mommy!!!!!!

July 16, 2009
My big boy is 6 weeks old this week! I can hardly believe that I have been so blessed with such an amazing little guy. AND, my friend Crystal had her baby boy, Evan. Eph and I will be going to visit her in the hospital to meet Evan. I know they will be best buds :)

So this week Ephraim has started to smile and giggle a lot. He seems to be learning about the world around him because he always wants to hold his head up and look around. He is super sweet and cuddly too. He loves hanging with mommy all day, but laughs at daddy when he gets home. He melts my heart!

Since Eph is not really sleeping too much at night, Jerret solicited some help from an experienced momma at church. I talked with Julie about her "method" and we are trying it this week. So far, so good! Ephraim still enjoys sleeping a lot....so its hard to introduce a new way of living for the little man who eats constantly! Maybe by August we will all be sleeping through the night!

An update on the house--JD has adopted a puppy named Jasper! Jasper is now Sadie's new boyfriend! They are best buds and enjoy chasing one another in the yard! Jasper is a mild 9 month old and is a good boy! He is such a sweetie. There are pics of him!

In honor of the All-Star game hosted here in St Louis and our favorite baseball team, the Cardinals, Ephraim is wearing his baseball all-stars outfit : ) AND, I finally caught ONE photo of him smiling!!!!!!
Some fun photos to update....

My All-Star!

Showing off the faux-hawk!

PJ Time

My Little Man

Not so happy, but SO darn cute!

Sadie (left) and Jasper (right) cuddling on the couch after a long run outside!

My Boy Ephraim...

2009-07-09T22:28:00.008-05:00

Big man on campus in his robe and slippers!

Daddy gets the little guy to giggle!

Thursday, July 9, 2009
So I made up these silly songs to sing to Ephraim when he is upset or needing attention. They really don't have many words or even the same notes each time I sing them, but its fun to see him recognize something in the song, even if it is just my voice. One of them starts out "My Boy Ephraim...."

Of course, the kid is growing...a lot! We have officially run out of newborn diapers at the same time he really needs to move up. GOOD planning on my part, I think : ) He is currently going through a growth spurt, aka: grumpy and hungry man all the time. I hope he gets out of it soon because when he is happy, it is super fun and cute! He says OoooAAhhh and a few other cute baby things. He also laughs and smiles a lot! Daddy got him to giggle the other night (in the 5 mintues out of the entire day that he is "happy"). He made clicking sounds with his tongue and Ephraim just thought it was hilarious! So, life is good and summer keeps getting hotter. Thank goodness we got our air fixed the week before he arrived! A few fun pics to update this week. WEEK 5, what a big guy!
Motherhood is super amazing....totally different than I imagined, but just as amazing.....

So Ephraim doesn't like the bath time fun, but mommy does! What a cutie pie!

Our kid will wear FREE gifts, regardless of team! This one from Gary in NC! Thanks Garius!

Happy Fourth of July! The little guy in his new outfit from Mrs. Moore : )