The Speigner's Spectacular Journey

CAMPBELL IS...

2010-10-26T11:58:00.001-07:00

GOING TO BE A BIG SISTER!!! That's right!!! Baby Speigner #2 is expected to arrive around April 21. We feel so blessed, and are so excited to have a growing family! Please pray for a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby!

MONKEY PARTY

2010-10-25T08:34:00.000-07:00

We had a little family party for Campbell's 1st birthday at our house. It was so much fun, and our little monkey really enjoyed it being ALL about her!!! JJ painted this as a surprise to me and Campbell! She did so good! SMASH CAKEHer cake that was both yummy and precious!!! A picture from each month! Loving her car from mommy and daddy... and chair from Nanny & Pop... and checking out her umbrella from JJ and Day!Family picture...the only decent one I got!!! Digging in..."This stuff is pretty yummy!!!"
The finished product!!! With the Hudsons... The Knorr clan... Mammy... JJ and Day...Nanny, Pop, Brooklyn & Alex... Joe.... Ca Ca & Trey... Sissy & Pops...The Durhams and Speigners

Our sweet Campbell,

We had so much fun celebrating your big day! You are so special and loved by so many. Happy Birthday little monkey!

We love you forever.

Mommy & Daddy

HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY LITTLE MONKEY!!!

2010-10-18T12:51:00.000-07:00

YES! I know, LONG overdue! She has been 1 now, for almost 2 weeks, but better late than never! Campbell turned 1 on October 6. We had an ultrasound that am for "Baby Speigner #2", so our sweet cousin Kelly, and her little boy, Jackson came to keep the birthday girl! She had so much fun, and had fallen fast asleep in Kelly's arms when mommy & daddy got home!

We had waffles and sang Happy Birthday before we left for the Dr.! Kelly and Jackson brought Campbell her birthday present on her real birthday! It was the cutest birthday cake ever! She can even blow out the candles! (It's a GREAT gift idea for 1st birthdays!

After, she woke up from her nap, we went to Chick-fil-A to have a little birthday lunch. She got a milkshake for desert, and LOVED it! Then we went to visit Nana in the hospital, to see Aunt Nene at the grocery store & get a special birthday prize, and then to JJ and Day's (she has started calling my dad "Day." We are not sure if it will stick, but we are going with it for now!) That night, daddy had to go coach, so we all ate pizza, and Campbell's Aunt Aggy and Raleigh came to say Happy Birthday! When Daddy got home from work, we let her dig into a cupcake that Aunt Aggy brought her from Gigi's in Auburn! She wasn't so sure about the icing on her fingers with the cupcake!

She enjoyed feeding Maggie a little bit more than herself!!! Maggie enjoyed it too!!!

Then we opened her presents, and waited, and waited, and WAITED on Day to get home from Sweden! He was supposed to be home at 7:15pm and thanks to flight delays and traffic, he didn't get home until 10pm! We had 1 TIRED birthday girl, but we had promised him before he left that he would get to see her on her real birthday! (That was so important to him!) Her eyes lit up when she saw him, and it was definitely worth the wait!!! He brought her a little birthday present from Sweden!

Here are a few more pictures from her birthday night/week! Stay tuned for her Birthday Party Post!!!

Cam and Ty! She loves him! This is how we find them playing most of the time!!!Cam's Ca Ca could eat her with a spoon! We are going to be very sad when Ca Ca goes to college next year! :-(
Mammy and Campbell. Mammy absolutely worships the ground this child walks on! (I guess it helps she was named after her!) We dare not get on to Campbell in front of Mammy! Mammy tries to see her everyday, but at least every other day!!!And JJ! What would we do without JJ? Ahhh!!! We LOVE JJ! JJ SPOILS THIS OUR LITTLE CAM BAM ROTTEN!!! Family shot on the Big day!
Aunt Nik sent Cam this precious outfit, and it came on her real birthday!!! This is Day 1 of her birthday outfits! I LOVE this picture!!!And, this is Day 4 of her birthday outfits!!! She helped Day cook Ticer's dinner!

Campbell,

Happy Birthday Little Monkey! You have brought so much joy and love into our lives over this past year. We love you more and more with each passing day! We thank our Maker for you everyday! We love you forever!

Mommy and Daddy

WE MISS YOU...

2010-09-17T14:53:00.000-07:00

NIK NIK!!! WE WISH YOU WERE IN MEMPHIS WITH US!!!

ONE MONTH AWAY...

2010-09-06T22:50:00.000-07:00

FROM TURNING ONE!!! This year is FLYING by, and our little monkey is getting to be such a BIG GIRL!!! It absolutely breaks my heart! Here are a few new things that she has started doing over the past few months (since this mommy hasn't posted lately :-) ):

She is walking many steps at a time, but still prefers to crawl when trying to get somewhere quickly!
She still has ZERO teeth...
But, that doesn't stop her from eating real food!!! She has become quite the picky eater ( taking after her dad!). She prefers to see you taking a bite before she likes to try it herself.
To say she LOVES cheese is an understatement!!! The child would eat it for every single meal!!!
She is developing a little personality, and it has been so fun to watch! She talks all the time, and laughs at herself!
She enjoys blowing bubbles and making Indian noises with her mouth!
My favorite thing she does is talking to her hand! It is hilarious, and it makes us laugh for hours!!!
She loves people, and will go to anyone and everyone! She enjoys playing with/ watching other children.
Her daddy started calling her a monkey when she was a baby, and boy did he hit the nail on the head!!! The child climbs, and wraps her toes around EVERYTHING!!!

I can not believe Campbell will be ONE in exactly a month. My heart has never been so happy! Our Lord has blessed us with one of his many precious angels, and we are honored to be her parents!

HAPPY 11 MONTHS LITTLE MONKEY!!! WE LOVE YOU TO THE MOON AND BACK!!!

WALKING...

2010-08-28T13:28:00.000-07:00

Or somewhat trying!!! OH HOW I LOVE THIS CHILD!!!

PICTURE WORTH 1000 WORDS!!!

2010-08-24T23:11:00.000-07:00

My aunt Nene says she is "taking her bow off, and praying about it!!!" The little monkey probably is! The time has come where she snatches the bow off every time I put one on!

Enjoy these pictures...they tell a great story!

Getting in trouble for taking her bow off...

Laughing at me, in my face... "I'm sorry mom!" "Just one more time!" MY CUP RUNNETH OVER!!!

Trip to Rosenblatt

2010-08-23T23:21:00.000-07:00

For those of you who know anything about college baseball, you have heard of Rosenblatt Stadium! It is in Omaha, Nebraska, and the college World Series is held at the stadium every year. The Kansas City Royals AAA team uses Rosenblatt as their home stadium. Campbell and I got the opportunity to fly to Omaha and meet Levale (thanks to Nanny & Pop) on his last road trip. It was so neat to see the stadium that I have always heard so much about.

Here are a few pics from our 3 hour layover in Minneapolis on the way to Omaha:

Our monkey was such a trooper. She entertained everyone at the airport. We also got to go to the zoo in Omaha. It was blazing HOT, but so much fun. It is the 2nd best zoo in the world and by far the BEST zoo we have ever visited!!! (Our child has been to more zoo's than any 10 month old I know!)

Campbell made a precious new friend, and she had so much fun with him! Tucker is one of our sweet friends, Nikki & Da Da's nephew. Da Da plays with Levale and Tucker's daddy plays on the Omaha team, so we got to spend lots of time with him! Campbell loved watching his every move. He has the CUTEST personality ever!!! We got to spend a lot of much needed time with Daddy, and it was AMAZING! On the road the guys don't leave to go to the field until 3 or 4, so we pretty much have a whole day together! It was wonderful!!! Campbell learned this new trick in Omaha, and it has quickly become her favorite thing to do while mommy gets ready! We got to fly home with the team which was INCREDIBLE! I had an extra set of hands, and we got our own 3 seats on the 2nd leg of the flight (which was the longest)! It was the 1st time Levale had ever flown with Campbell. She was a little fussy on the landing of the first leg, but did AMAZING and did not make a peep on the entire second leg!!! It was the BEST FLIGHT EVER!!! Not the best pic, but the 1st flight with daddy had to be documented!!! Thanks again to Nanny and Pop for a fun family trip! We are so thankful for the plane ticket!!! Daddy was so excited to have his girls with him. This season has been extremely hard on him having to leave Campbell for 8 days at a time (that's for another post).

A Fun Visit with Nanny & Pop

2010-08-22T10:15:00.000-07:00

When we returned to Washington from "home, home" Nanny and Pop came with us. Nanny came to pick Campbell and I up from Opelika, and we all drove to Atlanta to spend the night before the VERY EARLY am flight!!! It was so nice to have an extra set of hands on the flight (this mommy even got to watch a movie, thanks to Nanny). Pop met us in the airport in Washington and then Levale flew in the next morning. The visit went by way TOO QUICKLY! We went to my FAVORITE hamburger place and Campbell and Pop walked around the pretty grounds... We went to all of daddy's games, and again, Mommy enjoyed relaxing at the game! Campbell had fun wearing Nanny's sunglasses... We went down by the water to eat and it was a perfect afternoon. The food was delicious and Campbell kept us all entertained! She was so sweet! We went to the market in downtown Seattle. Nanny and Pop bought Campbell a new hat...I can't get enough of it!!!
We had so much fun with Nanny and Pop and hated to see them go! We can't wait to see them again!!!

Visiting "Home Home" Part II

2010-08-02T14:37:00.000-07:00

Our 2nd week home was just as packed as the 1st, but boy was it fun!!! Campbell patted Raleigh... She swam with Raleigh... Floated with Raleigh... Played with Ty... Loved Aunt Aggy & Raleigh... Watched the BRAVES and ate with Uncle James... Watered the flowers/played in the water daily, with Big Daddy... Ate Nana's fried chicken for Big Daddy and Uncle Jeff's Birthday... Wrapped herself around Big Daddy's finger even more... Loved & played with our sweet, adorable cousins Wilson and Andrew... Ate at Jimmy's, and was a VERY GOOD girl for Big Daddy's real birthday... Got a handful of Big Daddy's Birthday cake baked by Ca Ca and Trey... Helped Big Daddy open his presents... and ENJOYED every minute at "home home"!!!
Although, we are THRILLED to be back in our daddy's arms!!!

Visiting "Home Home" Part I

2010-07-31T17:05:00.000-07:00

The past 2 weeks Campbell and I went "home home" to Alabama. The time flew by...so quickly that the night before we were supposed to fly back to WA, I changed our flight and we stayed home an extra week! It was so much fun and so nice to spend time with family and friends, go to our church, eat home cooked meals (gain 5 pounds), and see my sweet, precious Maggie!!!

Campbell and I took a red eye home, and she did SUPER. She slept the entire flight, and mommy did not sleep one wink!!! We got into ATL at 6:30 CT where Ticer and JJ greeted us! They were so glad to see us (Campbell). We surprised Nana, Mammy and Paw Paw. They had NO CLUE we were coming home, and they were all beyond thrilled! From the moment we stepped out of the car until the time we flew back to WA we were constantly on the go. Here is the 1st week in pics. We did so much, and there was so much I wanted to include that I will break it into 2 posts!

We went to the Museum Grand Opening:

Campbell ate her 1st rib bone We went to the Event Center in downtown Opelika. It is the old Coca Cola Bottling Company, and Mammy retired from there. Campbell rode a pony for the 1st time We ate LOTS of watermelon! She played in the water at the fountain downtown waiting on Adam Hood, Brad Cotter and Dallas Dorsey to sing. Campbell had her 1st frozen banana, thanks to big daddy, and she made a MESS! Spent lots of time with Ca Ca and Trey LOVED and tortured Mags!!! Our sweet, precious, beautiful Raleigh was dedicated to our Lord Campbell cut the grass with Big Daddy and loved it She attended our "Bachelorette/Chick Fil A" party at Mammy's She and Jackson loved and shared NyNene We spent time with cousin Jackson and cousin Landon too. We went to Summer Swing and played with Raleigh and they both ate! We visited Dr. Smalley and Mrs. Jackie for Campbell's 9 month checkup Tatty came to visit us and we were so HAPPY to see her We went swimming with Raleigh, Aunt Aggie, Sissy and JJ

Campbell destroyed JJ's flowers Nanny and Maw-Maw came to visit We had a GREAT 1st week at "home home!" Stay tuned for week 2!!!

ALL STAR BREAK...

2010-07-14T19:40:00.001-07:00

in pictures!
We went to the aquarium...

and the zoo!

Campbell rode her 1st carousel!

We went to Campbell's 1st circus where she ate her 1st caramel apple...and met a clown!!!
(Thanks to my sweet friend Sarah Feierabend for the picture. My camera died!)
We did some swimming and spent LOTS of time together as a family!!! It was great to relax and be a "normal" family for 3 days!!! Now back to baseball! Keep us in your prayers over the next 2 months!!!

FUN SUNNY DAYS

2010-07-10T16:58:00.000-07:00

We have been enjoying beautiful, sunny, WARM Washington weather for the past week, and boy has it been great! We have spent LOTS of time at the pool. Campbell LOVES to be outside and LOVES the water even more! She has not been in the water since Spring Training, so it has been neat to watch how much different she is now! She is so much more alert and wants to do so many things. Our apartment complex has an infinity pool, so Campbell literally crawls into the water. She enjoys kicking her feet, like a little fish, and she blew bubbles with her daddy for the 1st time today!!! All Star Break begins after tomorrow's game. I sure hope this warm, sunny weather sticks around!!!
Going for the dirt...she loves it!!!

Walking into the pool with Daddy!
Learning to blow bubbles!
After the 1st day at the pool I put her in her walker to watch Einstein so I could take a shower. I got out and found this:
Isn't that pitiful? It broke my heart! Needless to say, now Campbell gets in her bed before mommy gets in the shower!!!

9 MONTHS

2010-07-06T23:55:00.000-07:00

Our little monkey is 9 months old! She is getting to be such a big girl. Here are some of our updates for this month:

She has become quite the mommy's girl! Anytime I leave a room, she is right behind me. Mommy is the only one she will let put her to bed. (We tried to break this habit last home stand while daddy was home, but it broke mommy's heart!)
She is eating anything and everything! She LOVES sugar, just like her mommy! A few things she has tasted for the 1st time this month are catfish fingers, spaghetti, cotton candy, saltine and ritz crackers, animal crackers, brownies, ice cream, grapes, blueberries and everything else her mommy eats! Her appetite is amazing to say the least! She eats 4-5 jars of baby food and 3-4 4oz bottles a day.
She likes to feed herself with her spoon, but the food doesn't always end up in her mouth!
She is crawling EVERYWHERE!!!! She is so fast. I am getting plenty of exercise these days.
Our monkey is pulling up on EVERYTHING. Once she gets up she walks down the sofa or from the end table to the sofa.
She loves to walk with us. She is really good holding 2 hands and getting more steady holding one everyday! She even walks with her push toys by herself.
She LOVES to talk (I don't know where she gets that from)! She says uh-oh, da-da, bye-bye, momma (only a few times), and the rest is chinese blabber. She loves to hear herself! Her JJ says she is going to have her name on the board everyday!!!
Every time someone coughs she copies them! It doesn't matter if we are in the grocery store and a stranger coughs; Campbell coughs right behind them! It has become comical, and she does it all the time!
Her sleep schedule is crazy! Just like our baseball life! She goes to bed between 11-12pm, and from there we never know whats going to happen! The majority of the time we sleep until around 9. Lately she has been letting us sleep until 10am! It has been WONDERFUL. It makes for a VERY HAPPY MOMMY!
She loves to clap and play patty cake. She claps when the crowd claps at daddy's games, and then raises her hands to show spirit! I think we have a little cheerleader on our hands!
She loves to smile and laugh out loud! I could listen to it all day, everyday!
We had to take her to the Dr. in Tacoma for the 2nd time. She had a viral throat infection with ulcers on her tonsils.
She climbed steps by herself. (MONKEY!!!)
She still doesn't have any teeth, but it sure hasn't stopped her from eating!

Campbell is a precious gift from our Father. She is doing new things everyday and developing quite the personality. We are so blessed and thankful for her!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!

2010-07-04T15:12:00.002-07:00

From our family to yours, we hope you have a HAPPY, SAFE 4th!!!

LET THE VOTING BEGN...

2010-03-23T17:42:00.000-07:00

If you read our blog, then you all know my best friend, Ashley. She is a Realtor in Lee County, and is 1 of 50 Realtors nation wide to be nominated for "30 under 30 Realtors." Ashley is the 1st realtor in our area to EVER be nominated, and we are SO PROUD of her! She needs all the votes she can get. Please click on the link below and vote for Ashley now! Feel free to vote as many times as you would like, and share with all of your email buddies!!! Let the voting begin....

Ashley Durham Nominated for REALTOR®
Magazine’s “30 Under 30” Award
Your Vote Counts! Vote for Ashley Now!

Ashley Durham is a top producing REALTOR® in Lee County, AL and has been selling residential real estate with Prestige
Properties since 2006. She is a native of Opelika, Al and along with real estate; she enjoys community involvement and
spending time with her family. Ashley became a multi-million dollar producer in her first year of real estate. This is no
easy task, and REALTOR® Magazine has recognized Ashley’s talents.

REALTOR® Magazine is the official magazine of the National Association of REALTORS®. The magazine features
“30 Under 30” in the May issue of the publication each year. The award recognizes “rising young stars in the real estate
industry.” REALTORS® across the nation are nominated and fill out applications for this honor. Ashley is one of the 50
semifinalists being promoted online for a public vote the week of March 22-29.

Thanks to clients, friends, and colleagues like you, Ashley is being recognized for success in real estate nationwide!
Vote now for Ashley in hopes to see her featured in REALTOR® Magazine’s May issue as a “30 Under 30” honoree!
Your Vote Counts! Vote for Ashley Now!

Ashley Smith Durham
“Your REALTOR® That’s Connected to the Community”

FUN IN THE SUN!!!

2010-03-22T12:19:00.000-07:00

The weather in Arizona is absolutely beautiful so we have been spending many afternoons at the pool! To say Campbell loves the water is an understatement! She keeps everyone at the pool entertained splashing and laughing with her daddy!1st visit to the pool and 1st time to get in!

Having fun doing the motor boat with daddy!
LOVING her new float!
Sun bathing in her Daddy's gear!

YUM! YUM!

2010-03-14T10:23:00.000-07:00

We have officially added baby food to our little monkey's diet! Campbell is gobbling it up to say the least...we haven't found one thing she will not eat! I think we have a little girl with a GREAT appetite on our hands!I could just eat that little carrot face up!!!

LOVING these two...

2010-03-12T09:32:00.000-08:00

My heart is so full! I am enjoying EVERY minute with my 2 loves! I could not be more thankful and feel any more blessed! GOD IS SO GOOD!

ARIZONA FUN

2010-03-09T08:35:00.000-08:00

Campbell and I are in Arizona with Levale, and we are enjoying every minute! Levale and I both LOVE Arizona, and we are really enjoying the Mariners organization. We have met some neat new families, and it has been nice to catch up with old friends as well. It is neat to see how all of our families have changed since we last saw one another. We all have kids now!!! Here are a few pictures of our time here so far!We went to the zoo with JJ while she was here and we had the BEST time! She bought Campbell a monkey and she LOVES it!Eating her 1st lemon...she actually liked it!!!
Merline, Sydney, Kelly, Victoria, and Cameron
We went to lunch and a hunting expo with JJ's cousin, Merline and her family. We haven't seen them in years, and we had so much FUN. Levale really enjoyed seeing all the deer, wild animals and dogs jumping!Watching Einstein with JJ Levale, Campbell, Ryan and Kasen / Campbell meeting Kasen for the 1st time. They are 3 days apart!Napping at Daddy's game!
Playing and Missing Ca Ca at Daddy's game!
As you can see, we have been entertained since we have been here! We had so much fun while JJ was here and we miss her SOOO MUCH!

Happy 5 Months

2010-03-06T08:20:00.001-08:00

Our precious angel is 5 months today! TIME FLIES by way too quickly! She weighed 14lbs at our last Dr.'s appt, and I am sure she has grown since then! Here's what has been going on this month:

She is sitting up with very little support! She is so close to doing it alone. It amazes me how she does new things overnight!
She is (we are) completely finished with breast milk! Hallelujah! She is on Enfamil for babies that spit up, and it works!!! Thank goodness! She still spits up some, but not NEARLY as much or as often.
She does NOT like rice cereal from a spoon! She is still only eating it once a day (in her bottle). I think it is because it tastes like cardboard! She will taste most things we are eating from a spoon, just not rice cereal!
She had her 1st non checkup Dr.'s visit. :-( She had a cold/cough before we came to AZ, so we had to visit Dr. Smalley. It broke my heart to see our little monkey sick.
She is ALL over the place! She is constantly on the go whether it's rolling or scooting! Mommy and Daddy can forget the easy diaper changing days! We have to be QUICK!
She had pear juice for the 1st time (thanks to tummy issues) and she is not quite sure about it. She will only drink it if we give her milk, juice, then milk again!
She is still sleeping through the night. We actually have to wake her up every morning to take daddy to work.
She LOVES her feet. If she's sitting up, in her BUMBO, or laying down she is going to have at least one, if not both, of them in her hand!
We don't go ANYWHERE without Lilly. SHE LOVES, LOVES, LOVES her and knows if we try to replace her with another lovey. We have 2 Lilly's, and she sucks on her and talks to her to go to sleep.
She went tee-tee in the potty for the 1st time! YES! Of course, she had no clue what she was doing, but it was so funny! JJ was handing her to me in the shower, and I wasn't ready, so she put her on the potty and she went! When she was finished she started fussing...it was like she was saying, "I did it, now get me up!" Good thing it wasn't on the floor...hehe!

HAPPY 5 MONTHS LITTLE MONKEY! YOU ARE GROWING UP WAY TOO FAST! WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH!!!

WELCOME...

2010-02-19T22:03:00.000-08:00

little Raleigh James!!! He came into this world around 7:20pm weighing 6lbs 6oz and he was 19 1/4in long! Mommy, Daddy and Raleigh are all doing great! He is healthy and beautiful! Congratulations Ash and James! We can't wait to make many, many memories with our 2 little blessings. We love you so much!
Sorry the picture is so grainey...it's the only one I have uploaded so far!!!

SNEAK PEAK...

2010-02-12T07:13:00.000-08:00

What a tease huh?!?! Campbell had her pictures made last week, and here is a glimpse of what is to come...I CAN'T WAIT! I am so pleased with the outcome of these, and I am so excited to see the rest of them!
Thanks Brooke for spending time with our family! We look forward to working with you more in the future!!!

Baby Dedication

2010-02-09T15:46:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday Levale and I made a public commitment to our church to raise Campbell in a Godly home. We dedicated her to our precious Heavenly Father. It was a beautiful, special day and we appreciate all of our family and friends being there to support and stand behind us. After church my parents hosted a luncheon for our close family and friends. Everything was so nice, and we had a great time of fellowship! My mom had all the tables set with her fine china, and she had a different cross as the center piece. Our florist (Clay) made beautiful flower arrangements just for Campbell! Mom had pictures of our angel all over the house. Morgan made a delicious cross cake, mom made matching cross cookies, and ordered pink and white cross mints!

After we ate lunch, we all gathered to open Campbell's gifts. Thank you so much to everyone. She got the prettiest things to help her remember her special day.A special thanks to JJ & Big Daddy for EVERYTHING! You made Campbell's dedication so special. We appreciate all your hard work. We love you both so much!

Happy 4 Months

2010-02-06T17:18:00.000-08:00

Our little monkey is 4 months old today! We are going to the Dr. on Tuesday and I can't wait to see how much she has grown! Here's what has been going on this month:

She is rolling from her tummy to her back, and from her back to her tummy.
She will hold her bottle by herself anywhere from 3-5 minutes!
She's starting to put EVERYTHING in her mouth and drooling constantly! I know it is early, but I think she may be teething!!!
She absolutely LOVES her exersaucer...did I mention her mommy and daddy love it too!
She is getting rice cereal once a day. (I hope to start 2x's a day after our visit to Dr. Smalley on Tuesday!!!)
She started laughing out loud, and will do it for what seems like forever!!! It's the most adorable thing!
Her face lights up and she smiles when her mommy or daddy enter a room. (This melts my heart!)
She sleeps anywhere from 7-9 hours at a time...Her mommy and daddy liked the 12-13 hour stretch better!
She talks to us like she is having a conversation! It is precious!
She still LOVES bath time, her massage and then "Einstein time"!!!
She has started sitting in her BUMBO. Her bottom still doesn't fit securely, but it does the job! She helps mommy cook, put on make up, and do laundry!
She has been riding in her "big girl stroller seat" while we shop! She really likes to shop!

Sweet Baby
BUMBO time @ JJ & Big Daddy's for NyNene's Birthday

Rolling, Rolling, Rolling, Keep on Rolling Campbell!

I LOVE...

2010-02-03T17:42:00.001-08:00

...this face! It brightens my day!

A Month In Pictures...

2010-02-02T14:52:00.001-08:00

Here is a look at what we have been up to since our last post...

Watching daddy's games

A visit from Nanny, Pop, and Maw-Maw in Puerto Rico

Saying bye to Daddy in PRBaking cookies for Raleigh's showerWelcoming Daddy home from PRCelebrating Aunt Nene's 60th Birthday!Opening our Christmas Presents in January! (thank you everyone)Admiring Campbell's Christmas Tree (thank you Tatty and JJ)Loving on MaggieWe went to Campbell's 1st Auburn Basketball gameLOVING Krispy Kreme...and her new exersaucer (mommy, daddy and Campbell are all enjoying it!)

Missing Ca Ca

2009-12-28T16:43:00.000-08:00

Dear Ca Ca,
I miss you SOOO much! I think my mommy misses you too because she talks to me about you all the time. I can't wait to see you. I am excited to have more spend the night parties at my house, take naps with you, and go places with you while mommy does things around the house. I am kind of hoping we can go shopping some too. Daddy says the weather in Washington is going to be REALLY COLD, and I don't have very many clothes for cold weather. My mommy told me that I could come watch you cheer for the 1st time too! Can you believe that? She said I am old enough now. I love you and miss you so much Ca Ca. I think you are the BEST aunt EVER!
Love,
Campbell

Feliz Navidad

2009-12-26T13:12:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from Puerto Rico! I hope all of our readers had a wonderful Christmas celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior. Although we were not at home with our families, we had a very Merry 1st Christmas with our princess. Levale had Christmas Eve and Christmas Day off. It was great to have him home with us. We had 2 very relaxing days. I thought I would share a little from both days!First, we started off with a picnic on the shore line of the beach. Levale found this place while riding around for about an hour and a half looking for a post office to mail our Christmas Cards!!! (Don't worry, we finally found one Christmas Eve so you will be getting a card!) The view was beautiful, and Campbell really enjoyed being outdoors!
We took a few pictures and...
She got to swing for the 1st time. She LOVED it! I think we need to invest in one that hangs inside to put her to sleep every night! :-) She REALLY MISSES her swing back home!
After, we left there we went to Walgreen's to find Campbell a Christmas Tree. We have looked everywhere for one. Wal-Mart here doesn't even have fake ones (or either they were ALL gone by the time I got here!) One of Levale's teammates told him they found one at Walgreens last year, so off we went on CHRISTMAS EVE!!! After visiting 2Walgreens, here is the ONLY tree we could find...
It played Christmas carols and already had lights on it! Campbell liked to watch the lights, so it served the purpose! (And it made mommy and daddy feel better. We couldn't imagine her having her 1st Christmas without a tree.)
After finding her tree, we headed back home. I cooked diner at the house, we watched Christmas movies, read "Twas the Night Before Christmas" and skyped JJ, Big Daddy, Ca Ca, Ti, Moe, Maggie, Miller and Ellie Grace! It was the perfect ending to a great day!
Christmas morning we woke up and Santa Claus had been all the way to Puerto Rico to visit Campbell. Even though she didn't have a clue what was going on, she was so happy, smiling and cooing. It made it so much fun! Santa couldn't bring much to Puerto Rico because he knew mommy and daddy would have to ship it home, so Santa visited JJ & Big Daddy's and Nanny & Pop's!
My little Smiley Bug
After we checked to see what Santa brought, we all went back to bed. When we got up the next time, we headed to the beach to spend the day! Campbell did great (after we finally got her to sleep). She enjoyed the water a little more this time because we didn't let it splash her in the face. Amazing huh?!?!
Then, we enjoyed a good ole American dinner at Longhorn steakhouse!
To top our day off, we got to Skype both families!!! We got to play a Christmas game with my family, AND THE BEST PART, see Maggie!

Being in a foreign country made me and Levale realize how much we normally get caught up in the hustle & bustle of Christmas. It was so nice to relax and enjoy God's beautiful creation; it reminded us of the true meaning of "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!" Happy Birthday Jesus!

11 Weeks...and the Beach

2009-12-23T18:50:00.000-08:00

Our little princess was 11 weeks old yesterday! Time has FLOWN by. It seems like just yesterday we were welcoming her into this world. They have been BY FAR the best weeks of our lives. Luckily, we are here with Daddy, so we got to spend the day on the beach, a nice AMERICAN dinner at Chili's, and then a little shopping to top our day off. Campbell was such a little trooper and just rolled with the punches! Here are a few pictures from the day.
Napping on the beach. Of course, Mommy didn't want the car seat on the beach, BUT Campbell had other plans. She went right to sleep as soon as we put her in it!!!
Chunky Monkey Bathing Beauty! This was my 1st swimsuit too! It is a little big on her, but it serves the purpose.
Putting her feet in the water for the 1st time. It's the Atlantic Ocean; the waves are HUGE, so she couldn't get in.
Family shot (between the fit she pitched because one of the waves hit her and Daddy from behind and got salt water in her eyes :-(...it SCARED her to death!)

HAPPY 11 WEEKS LITTLE MONKEY!!!! MOMMY & DADDY LOVE YOU MORE THAN YOU KNOW!

FUN FILLED DAYS WITH DADDY!

2009-12-18T17:28:00.000-08:00

We are enjoying every single second we are getting to spend with our Daddy!

I think he kinda likes us being here ;-)!!!

THANK YOU AUNT ASHLEY...

2009-12-15T17:06:00.001-08:00

for making my "cool weather" Christmas outfits!!! I have really enjoyed wearing them. It is SO HOT here. I wouldn't have anything to wear if it weren't for your AWESOME sewing skills. Could you please teach my mommy? I miss you and love you (Uncle James & Raleigh too) so much! Lots of hugs and kisses.
Love,
Campbell

Hola from Puerto Rico!

2009-12-10T12:26:00.000-08:00

I must admit I have been slacking lately in the blogging world! Not only have I not been blogging, but I have not even been "blog stalking", which used to be one of my favorite past times! (SAD HUH!) We have a lot to share, so I will try to be brief!
First and most importantly, our little princess is the most amazing blessing. We are so thankful for her, and that our Good Lord chose us to be her parents. She shocks us everyday with something new, and I promise she changes EVERYDAY! (I know that many of you are parents and know all of this already, but humor me for a minute! I am new at this!) It has been so neat to watch her change over these past nine weeks! TIME HAS FLOWN BY! (for Mommy that is, it was a different story for Daddy for 3 1/2 weeks!) She is smiling and cooing like crazy. She kicks and moves her arms all over. We think she is going to be the best boxer and music director in town!!! She loves the bath tub, and literally throws a FIT every time she has to get out. She is sleeping 9-10 hours a night (which she decided to do the 1st night we arrived in PR), she takes anywhere from 3-4 naps a day lasting anywhere from 15 min-an hour and a half! She absolutely LOVES for us to sing and talk to her, and she FIGHTS SLEEP worse than any child I have EVER seen! (she gets this honestly from her mommy!) She can throw one heck of a FIT already. I really think she knows I won't let her cry, and I will hold her as long as I need to! Did I mention she LOVES to be held and snuggle?!?!? I think we fall more and more in love with her everyday, if that's even possible!
We are back together as a FAMILY again! WOO-HOO! Campbell, Mary Carlton, and I flew to Puerto Rico last Thursday. SHE WAS A TROOPER ON THE PLANE. She did great! Thank you Lord! I just knew I was going to be the hated mom on the plane that had to walk up and down the aisles, but she shocked us all! I could not have done it without CaCa. She is such a HUGE help, and Campbell absolutely adores her already! Levale was SO GLAD to see his girls. (baby girl ;-) ) I'm not sure he could have gone another day! I've never seen him so happy, and he is so glad to have us here! Not to mention how happy we are to be here. He has a lot of off days while we are here, so it will be nice to spend lots of quality time together. The weather is beautiful and warm. CaCa and I already took Miss Priss to the beach for the first time. She even got to put her feet in the sand, and she seemed to really like it. She enjoyed the wind blowing in her face. We plan on going back with daddy to spend a few hours really soon!
Speaking of Daddy, we ARE SO PROUD OF HIM! He is doing amazing. He has been throwing so well. We were a little worried he would be tired because he threw more innings this past season than he has in 7 YEARS! But, old faithful (his arm) is holding up, and not giving him too many problems! This is a HUGE PRAISE. We are so thankful for his God given talent, and we must give Him ALL THE GLORY! Our Heavenly Father has blessed us again with another wonderful opportunity. Levale has signed with the SEATTLE MARINERS! We couldn't be happier. After lots of prayer for wisdom, we really feel like this is where the Lord wanted us. (even though it is a day and 19 hours from home ;-) ) Fortunately, this year, as opposed to last, he had several job opportunities, but we both really felt led to this one. Again, we praise Our God for this blessing! We will go to Spring Training in Peoria, AZ (the 1st time in AZ). He received a non-roster invitation to Big League Camp, which means we will report in the middle of February. (the reason we have such a SHORT off season, NO COMPLAINTS HERE!) Depending on his performance, and the roster spots available, we will either start the season in Tacoma, WA, the AAA affiliate, or Seattle, WA. Please begin to pray for Levale's health, and our transition of moving to wherever the Lord has us go as the season approaches! We are very excited to see what He has in store for our little family this year! We are so thankful we get to be together!

First Trip to JJ and Big Daddy's House

2009-10-22T14:22:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we decided we would venture out and take Campbell to her JJ and Big Daddy's house for the first time. It was my Uncle Rusty's Birthday, and Big Daddy, Levale and Uncle Ty had been fishing all day. What better food to celebrate with than fried fish, hush puppies, french fries and cole slaw!!! My mom's side of the family came over and we had so much fun! Campbell got to visit with her cousins Landon and Jackson for the first time. Jackson is 10 months older than Campbell. I know they will be the best little playmates. It's going to be so much fun to watch these two grow up together!

In the pack and play at JJ's. Jackson was asleep, but Campbell was having NO part of going to bed then!

Jay, Kelly, Landon, Jackson, and my parents dog, Ellie Grace with Campbell.
Uncle Rusty and Landon talking to our Angel
Snug as a Bug, leaving JJ and Big Daddy's.

On Saturday, it was cold and rainy, so Daddy and Campbell watched football for most of the day. JJ and Big Daddy came over to watch the Auburn game with us, and boy was it a disappointment! But my two love muffins sure were cute supporting our Auburn Tigers!
We also surprised Big Daddy at the bank last week after Campbell went to be weighed. (Which little missy had gained 3 ounces from Monday to Thursday! She is growing so fast...it breaks my heart!) Big Daddy was so excited, and so happy to show her off to everyone. It melted my heart.

I just thought I still had his heart. This little princess has taken my place! The girls at the bank say she will be running the show before we know it!!!

These past two weeks have been the best of my life. I am so blessed to be this little princess's mommy. She is such a joy. I never grasped the amount of love my mom has for me until now. It's the most indescribable feeling...and to think Our Heavenly Father loves us even more. WOW what an amazing love!!!

OUR PRINCESS HAS ARRIVED

2009-10-14T18:45:00.000-07:00

Campbell Elizabeth Speigner was born on October 6 at 2:56 pm. She weighed 7 pounds 6 ounces and was 20.5 inches long. She is beautiful, healthy and perfect in every way! This past week has been a complete whirlwind that has flown by! Every second passes too fast. It has been the most AMAZING week of my life. She is one of God's little miracles, and we are so thankful for our precious gift from above. Here is a few pictures from the past week. I am hoping that as things slow down, I will be able to update more frequently! ENJOY!

Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift. 2 Corinthians 9:15

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY LOVE!

2009-09-28T07:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my sweet, precious husband! ( 4 days late)! I am so fortunate to have such a loving, kind, hard working, determined, strong, talented, and the list could go on and on, husband! He is back home with me for about a month and a half, and words can't describe how HAPPY I AM TO HAVE HIM HERE!!! I really don't think he has taken a "break" since he has been home! He is working so HARD to get "house work" finished before our little princess arrives! HAPPY BIRTHDAY HONEY! I can't wait to start this new chapter of our lives! I know you will be the best daddy...WE LOVE YOU!!!>

29 CANDLES!!!

LEVALE WITH HIS "FIRST BABY GIRL"

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAMMY & NANNY!

2009-09-07T20:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday (a few days late, September 4) to two very SPECIAL women in our life. We love you both so much!

Mammy with all her grandchildren & great grandchildren minus Levale Me and Nanny with her present from Campbell

CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATE II

2009-08-18T21:39:00.000-07:00

Somehow the most important picture got cropped out of the last post, so here is Ticer with Momma and Daddy!

CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATE!!!

2009-08-18T21:09:00.000-07:00

My little brother, Ticer, graduated from Auburn University on August 10. We are so proud of him! He chose not to walk, so this past Saturday night my mom had a family graduation dinner for him. Here are some pictures of my handsome, grown up little brother! Ticer and his girlfriend, Morgan
Ticer with Mammy (L)

Ticer with Nana & Paw-Paw Gene (R top)

Ticer with Aunt Nene & Uncle Rusty (R bottom)

Ticer with Lynne, Jeff, Wilson and Andrew (L bottom)

Ticer with Uncle David, Daddy, Nana, & Lynne
Ticer with Kelly and sweet baby Jackson

CONGRATULATIONS TICER!!! WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH, AND ARE SO PROUD OF YOU!!!

Praise the Lord!!!

2009-08-05T20:48:00.000-07:00

First of all, thank you for all your prayers! We are so thankful for all our friends and family, and appreciate each and every one of you! Nanny (Betty Sue) had her MRI yesterday and it went well! The tumor has not grown at all, which is a HUGE praise!!! However, her Doctor believes this could be a very aggressive tumor, and feels like he needs to go ahead and see what we are working with. (Meaning if the tumor is malignant or benign.) She will go back to Atlanta on Friday, August 14 for pre-op, and he will go in on Monday, August 17 to do a HALO. Apparently this is an EXTREMELY DANGEROUS procedure because of where the tumor is located. For those of you who are not familiar with a HALO, it is basically a biopsy with a contraption (HALO) on her head to keep her from moving. He wants her to stay awake so she can talk to him, and let him know if he is entering a part of her brain that will affect her speech or movement. This way if she does begin to slur her speech, he can try a different approach. She will have to stay in the hospital overnight, and if everything goes as expected she will be discharged the next day. Please continue to keep her in your prayers over these next 2 LONG weeks. Pray for our Heavenly Father to give her peace and patience. I can imagine these next 2 weeks will be longer than the past 5 months because of the anticipation of the surgery. We serve a MIGHTY God and we know he has a plan!!! Again, thank you for your prayers...keep them coming! :-)
Me, 30 weeks, with Nanny & Pop @ Jonah's in Thomasville.
Thanks for lunch Nanny & Pop! We love you both!

PRAYER

2009-08-03T14:45:00.000-07:00

Nanny with one of her girls! The other one will be here very soon ;-)

My mother in law, Betty Sue (Nanny), goes to Emory tomorrow for another MRI of her brain. For those of you who don't know the story, she was diagnosed with a brain tumor back in March. It is in a very dangerous spot, so her Dr. in Atlanta did not want to start any treatment until she had another MRI in August. He wants to avoid an operation if at all possible. Please keep us all in your prayers over these next few days. Pray specifically that the tumor has not grown, for our Heavenly Father to give her peace and comfort tonight and tomorrow, and for the Dr.'s wisdom for what the next step may be. As I have mentioned before, she amazes me! She is a devoted Christian woman, and she has been so positive over these past few months. She has continued with her everyday life as if she was never diagnosed with a tumor. Something I don't think I could do! She is so strong!!!
Thank you so much, and I will post when we hear something.The Speigner Clan
One of Nanny's favorite past times, watching Levale play ball!

The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised; so shall I be saved from my enemies.
Psalm 18:2, 3

SURPRISE!!!

2009-07-24T16:29:00.000-07:00

MY LIFELONG BEST FRIEND, ASHLEY, IS PREGNANT!!! For the past two weeks I have been about to bust to share this exciting news, and it has been probably the HARDEST secret I have ever had to keep. Ashley went to the Doctor yesterday and got to see her precious bundle of joy for the first time!!! Its little heartbeat was strong at 152bpm. She is 9 weeks tomorrow, and is doing great. Her due date is February 27. She has been extremely tired, but has not had any morning sickness at all! Praise the Lord! She and James are both glowing with excitement, and I know they will be the BEST parents!
Mine and Ashley's friendship is truly one of God's many gifts. We have been best friends all our life, and our kind of friendship only comes once in a lifetime. It all began with our parents! They were best friends, and did everything together! I am six months older than Ashley, but we were in the same grade. Our parents have pictures of me sitting in her highchair before she was even born!!! We dressed alike until we were in fifth grade, our moms could not tell our voices apart, and we traveled everywhere together! 26 1/2 years later, and we are still best friends! We have ALWAYS said we wanted to have babies together! God is so good! Our babies will be 4 and a half months apart, and we can't wait to raise them together!
Please keep Ashley, James and Baby Durham in your prayers. We are so thankful for their precious miracle from our King. Levale, Campbell, and I look forward to many memories with all 3 of you! We love you all!
The glowing little Mommy- to-be with Baby Durham's prize from Campbell.

ALL STAR BREAK

2009-07-21T16:31:00.000-07:00

We were so fortunate this year to be able to drive home after Levale's game in New Orleans for All Star Break! We had a jam packed 3 days, but it was SO NICE to be at home together for a change! We got home Sunday night, and my mom welcomed us with a WONDERFUL home cooked meal at 9pm! Bless her heart, she and my daddy waited on us to eat. After finishing our meal, we headed to our house and this is what we found!A FULLY LANDSCAPED YARD!!! My mom and her friend, Mrs. Cindy worked so hard to get it ready so Levale wouldn't have to worry about it! It was beautiful. They planted hydrangea's, knock our roses, lantana, monkey grass, and lilli's. They spread pine straw, and even put a cross on our mailbox, and in our garden! Thank you so much Mom and Mrs. Cindy. We could NEVER repay you! Now our yard will be beautiful when Campbell comes!!!
On Monday, Levale, Daddy, Mom, and I worked in Campbell's nursery. Levale hung her chandelier, put another shelf in her closet, and hung a few pictures. We got everything accomplished that was on Levale's to do list for ALL- STAR break, so I was very pleased!!! Here are just a few pics of mom, dad and Levale working. I will post the finished product when her nursery is complete!!! (we still have a ways to go!)I was the supervisor all day!!! After we finished, Daddy cooked "Levale's Steak Dinner" and we all enjoyed another wonderful meal!
Tuesday morning, Levale and I went to the Dr. and he got to hear Campbell's heartbeat for the first time in person (he's heard it over the phone), and I had my gestational diabetes test! I passed and EVERYONE was thrilled! Mom and Levale said they couldn't imagine trying to be around me if they took my candy away! ;-) After our Dr's visit we went to get massage's, and met some friends for lunch!We enjoyed a wonderful lunch at one of my favorite places, Niffer's, with the Register's, Huddleston's, and Gross's. All of the guys played baseball at Auburn, and now live in the Auburn area. They all have little girl's that will be in the same grade! Campbell will be a year younger, but will have lots of pretty older girls to teach her all sorts of new tricks! Steven and Gabe are still playing ball as well, so they were home for their ALL-STAR break! We had so much fun, and look forward to many more "play dates" with you guys!!!Precious Kinsie Register, who has grown SO MUCH since the off season! She sat in her high chair and gnawed her fries. She was such an angel!
Sweet Baby Merrill Huddleston. She was so sweet! She slept the ENTIRE time...she never even opened her eyes for her "Aunt Pa-Pa and Uncle Valley" to see them!!!Sweet Little Allie Gross was awake for lunch, but NEVER made a peep! She just sat in her seat until we all finished eating, and then she got out! All 3 girls (who ALL look JUST LIKE their daddies) were so good. Levale and I are wondering if we can order Campbell to act like that! J/K, but I do know where to send Campbell to learn how to behave!!!
On Tuesday night, Mom cooked AGAIN! ( I think we both gained 10 pounds during the break.) She had Nana, Paw-Paw, and Mammy over so everyone could tell Levale bye!Me and Levale with Nana and Paw-Paw after dinner.With Mammy. Thank you so much JJ and Big Daddy for all your help! We could NEVER do it without you! We love you so much!!!

TIME IS TICKING!!!

2009-07-11T14:44:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I have blogged, but been even longer since I have blogged about our little princess. I am 26 weeks pregnant, and her due date is in 93 days. WHERE DID THE TIME GO??? It has flown by! There is so much to be done, and so little time to do it! I have a million thoughts/ideas/honey-do chores running through my head and I am wondering if they will ever STOP! (Levale is really wanting them too :-) ) We are going home tomorrow for the All-Star Break, so hopefully the things we get done will ease my mind until Levale gets home for the off season! On a lighter note, Campbell is getting so big or should I say I am getting so big! I know I said it earlier, but I had no clue what was in store for me then. I am REALLY getting bigger by the day now! Little Miss Campbell is quite the acrobat these days! We laugh and enjoy watching her every move now, but I hope her sleep schedule is not what it will be when she makes her debut! If it is, then we are in for a treat! The little rascal is up every hour on the hour! Luckily I am a hard sleeper, so I am still sleeping good! Time is ticking and I am stressing, but I keep reminding myself, every day that passes is a day closer to meeting our little princess. I can not explain the love I already have for this miracle from above. I know every mother experiences it, and it's just new because I am a first time mom, but it's the most incredible feeling! My love for her grows every second! We are so thankful and feel so blessed that our Savior has chosen us to be Campbell's parents. Please continue to keep us in your prayers as our Heavenly Father is preparing us for this exciting journey of parenthood!23 weeks and growing 26 weeks and BIGGEROur family at 26 weeks

Welcome Baby Merrill

2009-06-23T21:36:00.000-07:00

I am a week late, but CONGRATULATIONS to our precious friends, Beth and Bobby Huddleston. Merrill Lee Huddleston was born last Monday, June 15 @ 3:10pm. She was 8 pounds 3 ounces and 20.5 inches long. I got the privilege of meeting the little princess today, and I spent almost 2 hours at Beth's just holding her! She is such a sweet doll, and looks a lot like her daddy! She's such a good, happy baby and did not even whimper the whole time I was there. We are so happy for you guys, and are thankful for your new healthy blessing from above!Thank you for letting me spend time with you girls. Campbell and I look forward to many more play dates! I love you both!

SWEET SIXTEEN

2009-06-13T11:23:00.000-07:00

HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY FAVORITE SIXTEEN YEAR OLD!!! This is a day late, Mary Carlton's birthday was really yesterday, but I had to wait and get pictures from her party last night.I can't believe how time flies. It seems like just yesterday she was born! I will never forget my parents telling me I was going to have a new baby brother or sister! My mom swears I wished Mary Carlton on her! I had prayed, begged and pleaded for a little sister! Little did my parents know the Lord had her in His plan for our family as well! For those of you who don't know, my mom was 40 and PREGNANT!!! I was 11 and Ticer was 8. Another child was the furthest thing from my parents mind! But, she has brought so much excitement, joy and love to our lives! I could never imagine growing up without her smiling face, outgoing personality, love, hugs, funny comments, and most importantly her friendship! I have always thought of her as my little girl. Sometimes she can't stand it because I act like her mom instead of her sister or friend! She stole our hearts from the moment we laid eyes on her! Here are a few more pictures from her party. MC, I am so sorry we couldn't be there! I love you so much!Two of my FAVORITE girls! Mags represented our family at the party! :-)

Mary Carlton with momma and daddy. Check out the PRECIOUS cake Ticer's girlfriend, Morgan made her! IT WAS AMAZING!!!
This is her present from Campbell. Obviously it's for Campbell to wear, but I couldn't resist! It is so cute, and just perfect for our princess to wear while she is with her FAVORITE AUNT!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUNT CA CA!!! WE LOVE YOU MORE THAN YOU KNOW!!! Levale, Papes. Campbell and Maggie

Happy Together

2009-06-03T14:14:00.000-07:00

I am back in New Orleans with my precious hubby! I got here on Monday and will be here for a while! Quick update: Little Miss Campbell's ultrasound went great. JJ went with me and we got to see every inch of her little body! It was amazing! Everything looked normal, and the ultrasound technician was very pleased. Please pray that she will continue growing into a healthy little one of God's many miracles! Apparently she is just as happy as we are to be back together. She has made her presence known!!! She has been moving all over the place! It is a feeling I WILL NEVER FORGET. I am so thankful Levale and I were able to experience it together. I think she sensed we were back with her daddy, and she was so excited! I don't have any recent belly pics, but I promise to have some soon. Until then, here is a picture of our little doodle bug!Her little profileThis one is my favorite! She is showing off her little muscle! I hope she gets her daddy's muscles! :-)

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, The fruit of the womb is a reward.
Psalm 127:3

MISSING THESE SWEET FACES...

2009-05-25T21:02:00.001-07:00

These are the two sweet faces that I am missing SO MUCH these days! Obviously, one is my dear, precious husband, but the other one is Charlee. Some of you may remember her face from last year. For my new blog readers, this is our sweet friends, Brian and Kylie Sanches's little girl. We played with them last year with the Nationals and lived together in Columbus, OH. Brian is the one who actually told the Marlins about Levale (thanks Brian) and we got to live with them for a short bit in New Orleans as well! Brian got called up to the Big Leagues a few days before I left this past time. He is doing so AWESOME, and we are so proud of him! Needless to say, I won't be seeing my sweet Charlee next week, but the Good Lord willing I will before Miss Campbell's arrival! Oh! Also, I got to help out with her BRAND NEW, 2 week old brother, Cole while I was there. He is such an angel. I got lots of practice, and Kylie taught me MANY tricks in a short period of time! We love all four of them so much and praise our Heavenly Father for what He is doing in their lives!Sweet Baby Cole sleeping soundly.
Now for a quick update! Maggie and I went to visit Levale in New Orleans and just got back on Thursday morning. It was SO HARD to leave him. I was a complete basket case ALL THE WAY HOME...5 HOURS!!! I think this was my WELCOME TO PREGNANCY from Campbell present! I always get upset when I leave him, but I am going to see him in a week! I felt so stupid! Levale was so sweet and patient. He said all the right things, and made me feel like I wasn't a complete idiot! My trip was AMAZING! We got to spend so much quality time together, and we both learned so much from Kylie and Brian.
This is what I found one afternoon after lunch. I never doubted the fact that Levale would be a SUPER dad, but it's GREAT to be reminded. I can't wait to see him with Campbell. He loves his girls!
He also got to practice putting a stroller together. He will be a pro when he puts Campbell's together!This is what Maggie did the entire time...she LOVED it! Charlee shared everything with Mags!
These are the cute socks Charlee helped Kylie pick out for Campbell. Charlee was so excited to give them to us. Thank you so much guys! We can't wait to put Campbell in her little onesie and socks so she can be like Charlee! We will be sure to send you a picture!
Although I am VERY EMOTIONAL, I feel great! I am going to have my ultrasound in Opelika tomorrow morning. They will be checking to make sure baby Campbell is on track!!! Say a prayer for us! My mom is going with me since Levale obviously can't. I will be leaving to go back to see Levale on Monday for 3 weeks! I can't wait! It will be so nice to be together for an extended period of time! Please continue praying for him. He is doing great, but it is extremely hard on him to be away from us (me and Campbell). He is very protective these days!!! Also, baseball is just so up and down...it can be very stressful at times! I will try to post in the next few days on how our ultrasound goes!!!

JUST FOR FUN!!!

2009-05-02T12:58:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share a few pictures from the last couple of days!!! ENJOY!!!This is the pajamas we bought Campbell the day we found out what she was! It was so hard to shop for her this time of year! She won't be here until October, and all the clothes out now are Spring and Summer!!! Celebration dinner at a little Italian Restaurant in New Orleans! Sorry it's so dark.This was on JJ and Big Daddy's kitchen table for Campbell when I got home!These are the "girl" cookies (up close) JJ made for me!!! They were yummy! The morning Levale and I went for our Ultrasound, she put both a girl cookie and a boy cookie in Mary Carlton's lunch box! She's so creative!!!This was all inside the package!!!This sign was hanging on the front of our house when I pulled up!!! :-) It just makes me SMILE!

Last, here's a belly pic at 16 weeks! This pic doesn't show much, but it's the only one I have that is not bare belly! I will spare you all of those!!! It seems like she is growing more and more each day!!!

It's a PRINCESS

2009-05-01T22:36:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, we are thrilled to announce our first born will be a little girl! This past Wednesday Levale and I went to have an ultrasound in New Orleans so we could find out together. We got to see her little busy body moving all in my tummy! She definitely wanted us to know she is a girl, and DID NOT want us to see her face! Our ultra sound tech was so patient and kind, and pointed everything out so we would know what we were looking at! :-) We got LOTS of pictures, got to see her heartbeat, one hand (5 fingers), two feet (10 toes), her legs, back bone, tummy, and her profile! What a MIRACLE!!! She is God's creation, and a product of our love. It is so AMAZING to me. We are so thankful for her, and already love her more than we could EVER imagine. It makes me stop and think, each and everyone of us are God's children, and He loves us even more than we could think of loving her! WOW!!! What an AWESOME God we serve. Levale took this picture of her on the computer. We have some printed out, but I have not had a chance to scan them. I figured this is better than nothing!!! At least you can see her little head, nose and belly!

For as long as I can remember, I have had a special name picked out for my little girl. It has always been important to me to use family names. It just so happened that her middle name is also Levale's great grandmother's name, so it worked out perfectly. Her name will be... CAMPBELL ELIZABETH SPEIGNER. Campbell is my mother's maiden name, and Elizabeth was my first name, (Until I got married and I dropped it instead of Wilson. Then, I swore that I would NEVER call my little girl her middle name!!!:-) ) and also as I mentioned before, Levale's great grandmother's name.

After we found out it is a little Princess!!!

Thank you Lord for blessing us with our miracle! We are so excited, and can't wait to meet our little Miss Campbell!

I will give thanks to the Lord because of His righteousness, and will sing praise to the name of the Lord Most High. Psalm 7:17 (NIV)

Praise You In This Storm

2009-04-28T14:40:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update...Levale's mom, Betty Sue, went to Emory in Atlanta yesterday for a second opinion. The news was NOT what we wanted to hear as the Dr. confirmed that it is a brain tumor. The good news is they caught it early, and it is still very small. Apparently the tumor is in such a dangerous spot that they are not wanting to attack it quite yet. As long as she has no decreased vision, increased paralysis to the right side, no more extreme headaches, and no seizures, she will not go back until July. Then they will do another MRI and decide treatment from there.
Please keep her in your prayers in the coming months. Pray the Lord will wrap his arms around her, and give her peace and comfort. We know he has a plan, and he is using this to strengthen us all. We praise our good Lord for allowing the Doctor's to catch it so early. We are so thankful for all of our dear friends who have been there this past month. She is so blessed to be a member of a loving church family in Thomasville that continues to lift her up. Thank you for all the prayers. They have definitely been felt. Please keep them coming. We will continue to PRAISE OUR PRECIOUS LORD IN THIS STORM!!!

LOTS OF NEWS

2009-04-22T19:40:00.000-07:00

I have got a whole lot of news!!! I am going to try and make this as short and sweet as possible! First of all, I hope everyone had a Happy Easter. I went to Jacksonville to be with Levale the Tuesday before Easter, and drove home Easter afternoon to a WONDERFUL HOME COOKED meal with my family!!! Levale's parents, and Maw-Maw came to his first game to surprise him, and spent a few days with us. It was so nice to have family in. It kept me entertained during the day, and gave me some quality time with Nanny, Pop and Maw-Maw! Levale got to pitch opening night, and did AWESOME! When I got home Easter afternoon, the Easter bunny had been to visit Baby Speigner at our house, JJ and Big Daddy's, and he had already stopped at Nanny and Pop's before Easter! Needless to say, Baby Speigner is ALREADY being spoiled rotten! Baby Speigner's presents from the Easter bunny!!!

Levale is doing great! He was supposed to be home tonight and then again this weekend because the Jacksonville team is playing in Birmingham and Montgomery. (Which is why we scheduled my doctor's appointment on Monday, so he could go along!) Well, our precious Lord and Savior had BIGGER and BETTER plans for us! Monday night, or I guess I should say early Tuesday morning, Levale got a call saying he had been promoted to AAA!!! He had to catch a flight out of Birmingham at 6:30am and is now in Round Rock, TX. (Now, Let me brag on him for a minute)He pitched his first night there, Wednesday, and got the WIN!!! He pitched 3.1 scoreless! He has only been pitching an inning in AA as a setup guy, so I was VERY PROUD!!! They told him they were not sure how long he would stay in AAA (it depends on the Big League Guy who is hurt), but as long as he is pitching well, we can't ask for anything more!!! He will be coming back to New Orleans on Friday night, and I will meet him there on Saturday. I have postponed my doctor's appointment here, and made an appointment for us to find out the sex of our baby together in New Orleans! We will go Wednesday at 1:45, so be looking for a post soon after!

Levale's mom goes to Emory, in Atlanta, for a second opinion on Monday the 27th. She has a mass on her brain, so please keep her in your prayers. Pray for peace for her and wisdom for the doctor's. We are hoping they can figure out what the mass actually is, so she can start the necessary treatment.

Congratulations to our dear precious friends, Kylie and Brian on the birth of their son, Cole. For my blog readers who know Charlee, Cole is Charlee's new baby brother! He made his debut yesterday, April 21. Mommy and Cole are both doing well. Brian is with them now, but will be leaving to come back to New Orleans. Pray for Kylie as she has a newborn and a 20 month old all to herself!!! I can't wait to meet Cole and see them in a few weeks!

Last, just for giggles, here's a picture of my belly at 13 weeks. I am 15 weeks now and even bigger!!! I feel like I am getting huge. I will try to do a better job of posting belly pics!!!

I'M BACK!!!

2009-04-05T13:17:00.001-07:00

To all my faithful blog reader's...I am so sorry. My life has been crazy since Levale left, and I just have not found the time to update my blog! I went to visit Levale for a week and a half, and just relaxed! I laid out a few days, and got to spend time with our dear friends from last year, the Sanches's. We had so much fun, and it was great to just be together! We had not seen one another in about 10 days, and believe me that was 10 days too long!!!! This year was so much more difficult for the both of us, and we hear that once the baby arrives, it's even HARDER.

My sweet, Charlee playing at the beach!
Out to dinner with a few of the Nationals 2008 players: Brian, Charlee and Kylie Sanches, Charlie Manning, Jim Ed Warden, and us!

Now, on to our life. First, I will start with the precious love of my life! He is now in Jacksonville, Florida with the Marlins AA team. He left Jupiter, FL on Thursday morning, and had an exhibition game on Thursday afternoon. He pitched one inning and did very well! Thank you Lord! The team has put him in a hotel until Wednesday, and then we don't know where he will go. Levale has been apartment hunting, and has several options. Hopefully something will work out! I am still up in the air as to when I will join him. We are waiting on a few different things to pan out, and then I will decide!

As for me and our precious miracle, we are doing GREAT! I am 13 weeks tomorrow. WOW! How time flies. It's so hard for me to believe that we will be parents to one of God's many children in about 6 months!!! I went to the doctor on March 30, which happened to be my birthday, and got to hear the heartbeat. It was strong at a 160bpm, and was the best birthday present EVER! My sweet mom and dad went with me because obviously Levale couldn't. Although, we did call him so he could hear it. It made his day and mine!!!

Me, mom, and dad waiting to hear Baby Speigner's heartbeat

Calling Daddy so he could hear Baby Speigner's hearbeat...listen and you can hear it!!!

Now, on to the Prayer Requests...

While I was in Jupiter visiting Levale, we got a phone call from his mom. She had been diagnosed with a brain tumor. The next morning she was going to see a Neurologist to find out more information. Well, the neurologist said he was 95% sure it was NOT a brain tumor. Praise Jesus!!! He put her on steroids and pain medicine and sent her home. She goes back to see him for blood work on Tuesday and an MRI on Wednesday. If the mass has not shrunk, they will have to biopsy it to figure out what it is. She is doing better, but still having headaches, which really scares me. Her energy level is also low, but we are thinking that is to be expected because she was down for a week. Please pray for her, and us, during this waiting period. Specifically that the Neurologist is right and it is NOT a tumor, and that the mass has shrunk by Wednesday so they do not have to biopsy it. The biopsy is a VERY DANGEROUS procedure because of where the mass is located. Pray for peace and comfort as well. I will try to update as soon as we know more.

Also, I got home last Sunday, March 29. My Uncle Rusty(my mom's brother-in-law) was at my parents house for Sunday lunch complaining of chest pain. We all insisted he go to the ER, and boy are we glad he did. They admitted him because his enzymes were high, and did a heart cath Monday morning. Dr. Rhodes found 5, yes 5 blockages, and damage from previous heart attacks. Dr. Roberson did open heart surgery on Wednesday, and I am proud to say that he was discharged from the hospital this morning. What a HUGE blessing the entire ordeal was. The good Lord was looking out for him by being here with our wonderful Heart Doctors at EAMC. My aunt is so pleased with the amazing care he got from all the nurses and doctors. Everything was wonderful. We praise our Lord for protecting him!!! Continue to pray for him during the next 6 weeks as he heals from this serious surgery. Also, for my aunt Nene as she takes care of him for the next 6 weeks. Being a nurse, I know it's harder sometimes on the caretaker than the patient and they don't get near enough prayer and recognition!!!

And last, please keep my precious husband in your prayers throughout the baseball season! His first game will be April 9, and that is just the start of an extremely LONG season for him. Pray for his mental and emotional state, his strength and health. We know the Lord has an AWESOME plan for this season, and we can't wait for Him to reveal it to us!!!

How great are your works, O Lord, how profound your thoughts!
Psalm 92:5

Sorry it's so long...thanks for reading!!!

Thank You Precious Lord

2009-03-12T11:22:00.000-07:00

For those of my reader's who are still in the dark, Levale got a job!!! Praise Jesus!!! At the beginning of last week, his agent got a call from the MARLINS saying they were interested. We were very excited, but didn't want to get our hopes up because it was so late! Thursday FINALLY rolled around and his agent called. The Marlins made an offer, and we took it!!! Late Friday afternoon, Levale received a call, and they said he had to be there MONDAY!!! Of course, we were excited, but never dreamed we would have to be there so quick. Needless to say, there was not enough time for us both to get ready. We packed him up, had our farewell friends and family dinners, and he left Monday morning around 7:45. It was an extremely emotional, HARD day for us both! We have done this a million times before, but with us expecting our little miracle, and with the new found hormones I have :-), it was so much harder than normal! He arrived safely in Jupiter, FL around 6:45, and is doing SUPER. I was so worried about him going by himself with it being a new team, but once again our Almighty Lord has taken care of us both! He has a very nice roommate from California, and has met some really neat guys! He had his first Bible Study last night with the Cardinals and the Marlins. It went well, and he seemed to really enjoy it! Please continue to keep him in your prayers as he prepares mentally, physically, and emotionally for the upcoming season. We are so blessed and know our good Lord has amazing things in store for us. We can't wait for Him to reveal them!

As for me, I am doing great! I have been staying really busy. My sweet little sister, Mary Carlton has moved in with me, Mags, and Bo, so we don't have to be by ourselves while Daddy is gone! It has been so nice to spend quality time with her. She is growing into a beautiful young woman before my eyes. I miss her so much during the season!

I am feeling super. Just getting bigger!!! I feel like I have already gained 20lbs! I will go meet Levale next Friday in Jupiter for about a week, and then come back to go to the Doctor on March 30, before I leave for the season! Please continue praying for our precious little miracle. We can not wait to bring "our" first Child of God into this world!!!

The PROUD sister and brother! This is how we told my parents, Ticer, Mary Carlton, and Mammy! Thank you to my sweet friend, Beth Register, for the idea!!!

Also, our last Dr.'s appointment, my sweet Doctor, Dr. Wade Alverson, let Levale see our miracle before he left! Dr. Alverson insisted he couldn't go without seeing our sweet baby first. He did an ultrasound and we got to see the little heartbeat. It was so FAST and so exciting!!! I can't describe the feelings we both felt for this child...tears started flowing, and we were both in awe of the miracle God has blessed us with! Thank you precious Lord for this life that is a gift from you.

Our little blessing! Our sweet baby is so tiny, but Levale did get to see...thank you Dr. Alverson!

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service. 1Timothy 1:12

Winter Wonderland in March!!!

2009-03-03T14:45:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday Levale and I woke up to a BEAUTIFUL Winter Wonderland! We began the day by going to Mammy's for breakfast. While I was getting all bundled up to go, my precious husband was already outside with the babies(Mags and Bo) building me a PREGNANT SNOWWOMAN!!! He was so proud and I was too! How creative! I would have never even thought of that idea!After we finished breakfast, Aunt Nene, Uncle Rusty, Kathryn, Amy, Levale and I all piled into Levale's truck and headed back to our house. While us girls were inside finding warm clothes for everyone, Uncle Rusty and Levale moved our snowwoman to the front yard and made it bigger! Us girls then came outside and put the finishing touches on her!Front viewSide view of the two pregnant women!!!

Above L- Amy Lou, Me, Nene, and Tatty with our snowwoman
Above R-The snowwoman builders, Levale and Uncle Rusty!!!

James, Ash, Me, and Levale...we always have so much FUN together!!!

Ashley, James, Tana, and Baxter all came over to join us. After we finished taking pictures, we all went to Floral Park. We made snow angels, another snowman, and slid down the hill! Ticer and Morgan joined us there and we had a BLAST!!! My sweet family at Floral Park

Ticer and Morgan

We then all went home took showers, and headed to mom and dad's for lunch! Mom, Dad and Nene had prepared a HUGE lunch for everyone, and boy did it hit the spot!!! Levale built a fire inside, so after lunch we all gathered around to play games. Mom cooked chili and vegetable soup for dinner. After dinner, Ash taught me how to monogram on her new machine!!! It was so fun, and now I think I must have one!!! It would definitely come in handy with a baby on the way, but for now...I can borrow Ash's!!!

We had so much fun! We are so lucky to have such wonderful family and friends to make so many wonderful memories with!!!

OUR LITTLE BLESSING

2009-02-25T18:08:00.000-08:00

Levale and I are so excited to share with all of you that we will become the proud parents to one of God's many miracles in October!!! I am seven weeks pregnant and feeling great!!! We went to the Dr. yesterday and got our very first picture of our little blessing! It's little heart was beating so fast! As Dr. Alverson was showing us the heart beat, tears just started flowing. I can't describe the excitement, thankfulness, and love I feel for our sweet baby. What a miracle! We are so thankful for the bundle of joy Our Good Lord has blessed us with! Please keep us in your prayers in the coming months. Specifically pray for the Lord to guide us in the right direction with Levale's career, for me to find a job wherever we may go, and for us to begin preparing to be the best parents we possibly can!For Valentine's Day, Levale and I did baby presents for each other. Nanny and Aunt Nene also sent the baby Valentine's presents! My good friend, Whitney gave us a "Congratulations present!" The first of many AUBURN items for our little bundle of joy, and a "Precious Angel" Binky holder!Last, but not least, these are just a few items JJ has bought for our baby! (She won't show me everything!) I can't even begin to imagine what she will buy when we find out the gender!!!

Thank you Nanny, Nene, Whit and JJ for all the SURPRISES!!! We all three love you!!!

HAPPY BIRHDAY MOMMA!!!

2009-02-23T13:57:00.000-08:00

This past weekend Levale, Mom, Dad, Ticer and I went to Orange Beach for a long weekend. It was mom's birthday on Saturday, so we all went to celebrate. Despite the sunny, but really cold weather, we had a blast! We ate great, slept late, played cards, and relaxed. Our friends, Ashley and James happened to be down there as well, so we got to spend time with them! Saturday night there was a Mardi Gra parade. Levale and I had never seen one, so we went and joined Ash and James to watch it! The floats were so neat. It's amazing how much time and effort people put into them! It was so nice to be able to go to my favorite place and just relax. Thanks Daddy for taking us, and HAPPY LATE BIRTHDAY MOMMA!!! I LOVE YOU!At Fresh Catch for Mom's Birthday DinnerOne of my favorite floats, the dolphin. They all looked this good!Me and Ash with all of our beads we caught. It is crazy, how much they throw out...the streets still had some on them Sunday!!!

Last, I will add a picture of the beautiful beach. Friday morning Levale and I woke up a little early (for us) sat on the balcony in the freezing cold, and admired God's BEAUTIFUL creation. Thank you Lord for sharing it with us.

He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. Ecclesiastes 3:11

Levale's High School Jersey Is Retired

2009-02-10T11:25:00.001-08:00

This past weekend we went to Thomasville for Levale's jersey retirement. It was a full day Saturday, but we had so much fun. Saturday morning the Thomasville Bulldogs had practice, so Levale headed to watch. At 12 they began an "Old Timers Game". They had a great turnout, and it was so neat to watch them come back together & play the sport they all love. Levale didn't really play, but he did stand in the outfield. He wanted to be a part so bad, but figured it wouldn't be a good idea if he got hurt playing before the season. It was really funny to watch some of the guys...let's just say I bet some of them had a hard time getting out of the bed Sunday morning!!! Following the game, they had a Home Run Derby tournament. Levale did play, and he hit one HR!!! My parents arrived after the HR Derby game, and we all headed to Nanny and Pop's to change clothes for the dinner. At the dinner, they recognized Levale for all his accomplishments from high school through last season! It was amazing to sit there and listen to them all. He has so much to be thankful for. The good Lord has blessed him with talent that most guys dream of. Levale gave a short speech, and did such a wonderful job. He ended his speech with Proverbs 3:5-7 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths." WOW!!! Levale said that not only for the players of the THS team this year, but also for us (me and him). We are still uncertain if Levale will be playing professional baseball again next year. Our good Lord knows, and we need to trust His plan. If this is the end of baseball Levale has gotten to fulfill his dream, and do things most little boys dream of! I am so proud of my precious husband! Please pray that we will have patience in the coming weeks, and that the Lord will reveal His GOOD & PERFECT plan to us.Levale's best friend, DY and his girlfriend, Laurie. We love them, and wish we got to see them more often!!!Three of the Four Seniors and the Coaches on the 1999 Georgia State Champion Team...The Thomasville Bulldogs. From L-R: Coach Adcock, Daniel Young (DY), Levale, David Chambers, and Coach McDougal.

Me and Levale with my parents. They drove 3 hours there and 3 hours back! They do SO MUCH FOR US!!! We could NEVER repay them! Thank you Mom and Dad! We love you so much!

Me and Levale with his parents and brother, Thomas. Thank you so much for raising such a wonderful young man. Because of you two his dreams came true...Thank you for driving him all over creation to baseball camps, and supporting him through the ups and downs! We love you!

Also, THANK YOU to everyone else who came to support him. It mean so much to us both. We love each and everyone of you!!!

I must say once again...I AM SO PROUD OF YOU HONEY!!! I LOVE YOU!!!

TAG! I'M IT!!!

2009-02-04T15:34:00.000-08:00

I've been Tagged by Tipi. I was given these rules:

A. First list 10 honest things about yourself - and make it interesting, even if you have to dig deep!
B. Pass the award on to 7 bloggers that you feel embody the spirit of the Honest Scrap.

Here goes:

1. I always have been, and probably always will be extremely PRISSY! I love the color pink...ANYTHING and EVERYTHING! I like to wear heels, dresses, and skirts. I never played softball, basketball, or volleyball. I tried tennis and golf as a little girl, but got way too sweaty. Yes! I was that girl who loved to cheer and tumble!!!
2. I LOVE to cook and clean. Call me crazy, but there is just something about them that is relaxing to me. I am always up for trying new recipes. If you have any good ones, send them my way!
3. I have recently become a "product junkie" (thanks Paige Casto)! I love to try different kinds of lotions, face wash, makeup, lip gloss, chapstick, shampoo/conditioner, hair products, soaps, perfumes, and the list goes on and on! On any given day I will have five different lotions or perfumes under my cabinet, and won't be able to decide which one to wear that day!
4. I lived in five different states the first year Levale and I were married! We started out in Alabama, moved to Florida for Spring Training, then to Pennsylvania to start the season, got moved up to Ohio in June, got moved up to Washington DC in September, and finally back to Alabama! I got a nice warm welcome to the "baseball world!" I wouldn't trade it for anything in this world. I miss my friends while I am gone, but I have been lucky to have the most amazing group of women on the road! I won't know what to do with myself when baseball comes to an end...I think I will be extremely bored!!!
5. I can't wait to be a mommy! I want to be that mommy that carts five kids around at one time! I want to plan FUN activities so all the children will want to come to our house! I absolutely adore children!
6. Although I do travel eight months out of the year, I HATE TO FLY!!! I get so scared. My tummy starts turning, and I lose my breath as the plane takes off and starts to land . I have very bad plane anxiety. Levale never believed me because he always flies with the team, and I fly alone. He got to see first hand to and from Aruba! I have found now that I do MUCH better with drugs!!!
7. I love candy. All types, colors, sizes, and shapes! Anything with sugar in it does wonders for me! My daddy wanted to name me "Candy" which would have fit my obsession, but my mom said NO WAY! I'm glad he didn't...no offense, but I think it sounds like a strippers name!!! :-)
8. I am the biggest cry baby! I cry when I am happy, sad, excited, hurt, when I hear songs, read books, see pictures, watch TV/movies, EVERYTHING!!! I will sit in church and not be able to sing a song because I can't regain my composure. Poor Levale!
9. I want to learn to sew! I have been helping at the Methodist church, and all the kids have the most precious clothes. I have got to learn to make them. I figure that will be a great new hobby for me!
10. I think elderly people are the cutest things ever! I love them all! The sweet ones and the salty ones. I enjoy listening to their stories. They are all full of wisdom and knowledge. All they need is a little TLC...I miss working with them so much. They made me laugh, cry and smile all at the same time!

Now, TAG YOU'RE IT...
Sue Bacsik
Erin Wagner
Kelly Gross
Beth Register
Stephanie Perrault
Lindsey Alsobrook
Mindy Basquin

MERRY CHRISTMAS...(extra late)

2009-01-15T15:15:00.000-08:00

I know, I know! It has been forever...things have been crazy around here. I hope everyone had a very Merry CHRISTmas and a Happy New Year! I thought I would just put together a little summary of our holiday season, since I am so behind.
We went to Thomasville to spend Christmas with Levale's family the entire week before (of) Christmas. We had so much fun! Levale hunted pretty much everyday, and I spent most of my time with my mother-in-law, Betty Sue/Nanny, and our niece, Alex. She is at such a fun age. Nanny, Alex, and I spent lots of time shopping, cooking and baking.

Nanny and Alex baking cookies for Santa...YUMMY!!!

On Christmas Eve, we went to Maw-Maw's where Mr. Jimmy's (my father-in-law/Pop) entire side of the family gathered to have wonderful food, fellowship and a quick game of "Dirty Santa"! We had a wonderful time visiting with Levale's extended family that we don't see very often!

Alex and cousin Sadie

Maw-Maw opening presents

Levale's Cousins and Aunt Lynn getting ready to play "Dirty Santa"

This is a "Family Tradition"...this is passed down to the newly-weds each Christmas!

After we left Maw-Maw's Levale's two brothers, Thomas and Erik, Alex, Levale and I went back to Thomas's to wait for Santa to come visit Alex! Thomas, Erik, Levale and I had a BLAST playing with the toys Santa was bringing Alex! We laughed A LOT!!!

Thomas with Alex's new dog, Tisha

Levale, with his wig, and Erik trying to smash down Alex's bean bag

My Family, Christmas Eve in our Christmas PJ's

Christmas Morning Alex woke us up around 7am! We went to check out what Santa had brought her. She got so many neat things, and loved them all! It was so much fun to watch the sparkle in her eyes, and to hear all the things she would say about each present she received!

Alex and Tisha...she was amazed that Santa remembered she wanted Tisha
Alex with her new lap top in her bean bag chair like her daddy's

After Alex finished with Santa's presents and opening presents from her daddy, we all headed over to Nanny and Pops to see what Santa had left at their house!

The Speigner family in our Christmas Pajamas (L-R) Erik, Pop, Thomas, Levale, Nanny, and Me

Alex in her pink party dress and new boots

Alex in her new red pea-coat from Pa-Pa and Levale

After opening gifts and eating a little breakfast, we headed back to Thomas's to shower and get ready for Christmas dinner. After getting ready, we arrived back to Nanny and Pop's just in time to nap, cook, and fellowship before Christmas Dinner. Levale's family does it different and does not have the traditional "Christmas Meal." I have to admit I was a little worried because I wasn't going to have my "normal" turkey and dressing on Christmas day. Boy was I wrong!!! Erik cooked a prime rib, homemade scalloped potatoes, broccoli salad, and rolls for our Christmas Dinner! It was AMAZING, Heavenly!!! He did such a good job, and I must say, he is quite the chef. Nanny's table was set with Christmas China and looked beautiful to top it all off!!!

Erik cutting the prime rib

Nanny's Christmas Table

On December 26, we woke up early, and headed back home! We had a 3 hour drive, and 4 Christmas's in one day!!! When we got home I was looking on our back porch, and noticed something new. I shouted for Levale to come. Santa had been to our house as well...sitting on our back deck was a BRAND NEW SET OF PATIO FURNITURE!!!! We had been wanting some for 2 years! I, of course, burst into tears and called my mom and dad. Mom had gone to pick it out in LaGrange, Ticer had taken the trailer back to LaGrange to pick it up, hid it at my Nana and Paw-Paw's, and Mom, Dad and Ticer brought it to our house and set it up on Christmas Eve in the rain!!! Thank you so much Santa!!! We love it. We have enjoyed using it already!!!

After getting over the shock of new furniture, Levale and I began our 1st Christmas of the day, OURS!!! We like to do our Christmas by ourselves with Maggie, so we waited until we got home. Of course, I got spoiled and was totally SHOCKED AGAIN, so I cried some more!

I LOVE my new purse!

Levale had already gotten his BIG present, a bow in October. He got a bunch of little things. This is his favorite!

He HAD to try it on!

Mags trying to get into her present after she had already opened them, and I had put them into a Zip-Lock!

After we had our Christmas we headed over to Mammy's for lunch and Christmas with Mom's side of the family. We ate my "normal" turkey and dressing and it was DELICIOUS, definitely worth the wait!!! After lunch we opened presents.

Kathryn, Me, Levale and Mary Carlton...the only cousins present the day after Christmas!

Me and Levale with our Sweet Mammy

My little family in front of Mammy's tree

We left Mammy's and went to Nana's to do Christmas with her and Paw-Paw. Levale had gotten his Christmas early so he could begin using it during Hunting season, so Nana, Paw-Paw and I opened presents!

Nana and Paw-Paw with their rival trays

Me and Levale with our Nana and Paw-Paw

We left Nana and Paw-Paw's and went to do Christmas with my family. We had dinner and opened MORE presents (we had already gotten the patio furniture)! Mom always takes down her Christmas decorations the day after Christmas. This year she left them up, and even reset her table with all her Christmas China to make it feel like Christmas! Thank you Mom! We ate shrimp and grits, salad, and rolls. Another WONDERFUL meal!!! Afterwards, we started opening presents!

Mom's table decorated for "Day after Christmas Dinner"

Ellie Grace opening her present from Maggie

My BIG present!!!

Ticer and Morgan opening presents

Mary Carlton

Mom with her new tennis shoes

And Daddy with his Duck Boots

Opening our first "Couple's Gift"

You can always tell Levale's FAVORITE gift because he does a modeling show! This is his new safety harness. Ticer was checking to make sure it worked!!!

Every year since I was born my daddy gives me a piece of jewelery. This has become our little tradition. This year I got John Hardy earrings.

This Christmas was wondeful! We enjoyed spending quality time with our family. Both of us are so blessed to have been raised in such loving, Christian homes. Although we had such a busy Christmas, we must not forget the REAL reason for the season. Thank you Jesus for loving us, and forgiving us time after time. Thank you for dying on the cross to save us from our sins. HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS, I'M SO GLAD IT'S CHRISTMAS!!!

A Day In The Life of My Precious Husband

2008-12-12T18:30:00.000-08:00

Tuesday was a BEAUTIFUL day! Levale woke up bright and early, as usual, and started working in the yard. Nine o'clock rolled around and I got up and began doing my morning ritual: fixing coffee, checking e-mail, and watching the news. About nine thirty Ticer comes in to fix some breakfast and check out our plans for the day (his way of wanting Levale to go play)! An hour later, Levale, Ticer, and I were headed to the hunting land in Tuskegee; Maggie, trailer, golf cart, and deer food in tow!We had so much fun riding the golf cart, feeding the deer/ducks, and playing with Maggie. I was able to enjoy God's beautiful creation as my precious hubby does everyday! I got to see the outdoors through his eyes, and I must honestly say I had forgotten how nice it is to just be outdoors! Thank you Lord for YOUR BEAUTIFUL CREATION!!!Ticer and Levale about to feed the ducks! Maggie even got to help!

My sweet little worn out angel! She was so tired that when we got home she got a bath and went straight to bed!!!

What a Wonderful Wedding...

2008-11-24T19:45:00.001-08:00

This past weekend Levale and I went to spend the weekend in Culman, AL. Our great friends, Courtney and Davis got married on Saturday, November 22. We had such a great time at all their wedding festivities and got to see many familiar faces. Levale and I are so thankful for our dear friends. My prayer for their marriage is that they will keep God at the center, and turn to Him for everyday strength. Congratulations Court and Davis! We love you both and look forward to making many memories together!The Beautiful Bride and GroomMe and the Bride

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!

2008-11-19T15:53:00.000-08:00

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to my WONDERFUL husband...two days late!!! Levale and I just celebrated our FIRST Anniversary on Monday! I can not believe it has been one year since the day we said "I do". Levale surprised me, and we went to The Virginia Highlands in Atlanta. We stayed at a quaint little Bed and Breakfast, The Gaslight Inn, and had a blast. He shocked my shoes off, and totally went ALL OUT! When we arrived, I was greeted with a dozen roses, rose petals, wine, chocolate, and many more little surprises! We enjoyed walking through all the shops, an intimate dinner at the Vine, and an hour couples massage!!! Needless to say, Levale was just as AMAZING as he is every other day of the year. The Good Lord has truly blessed me with Levale, and I am so thankful for him. Happy Anniversary my love!!!

The Gaslight Inn

Dinner at the Vine

St. Simon's Island

2008-11-13T19:19:00.000-08:00

First off SORRY for not blogging in a while! The off season is supposed to be our down time, but we have been busy bees this year! Our latest trip to St. Simon's Island was AMAZING!!! Ashley, James, Levale and I went to visit James's sister, Cindy and her two kids, Sky and Durham. Her friend Cal was nice enough to let us stay at his house because James's parents went as well, and stayed with Cindy. THANKS CAL! On Friday morning we all piled in Cindy's Jeep and went on an adventure around the island. We went to an infamous breakfast place on the island, "Sweet Mama's", the beach, and just rode around to explore. The island is absolutely BEAUTIFUL. The trees are unreal, and the houses have so much character. Needless to say, the Jeep was a little chili, so we headed in to get ready for "The Village!""The village" is full of shops, restaurants, and bars. We enjoyed a leisurely afternoon walking around the shops and having lunch before we headed to Cindy's for some yummy Shrimp Pasta. On Saturday we went to a famous Sports Bar, Brogans, to watch the "World's Largest Cocktail Party." For those of you who are clueless, it is the Georgia vs. Florida game that takes place in Jacksonville every year!After the game, we went back to Cal's to hang out! As usual the guys always find something to get into, and for some reason it always revolves around FIRE...they had a grand time, and even met some new friends, the next door neighbors!!! We got up Sunday morning and came back home. We had a wonderful weekend and look forward to our next trip with Ash and James!

Goodbye to our Nation's Capital

2008-10-16T19:01:00.000-07:00

Hi!!! I know it has been a while, but we have been enjoying our time at home: resting, doing more yard work, cooking, eating, and spending time with family and friends. This past weekend was lots of fun! Friday night Levale played in a Homerun Derby game at Auburn to help raise money for the Boys and Girls Club. My mom, dad, brother, Ticer, and I all piled in to go watch him, and although Levale was not the winner, he did hit ONE HOMERUN to raise money! I was extremely proud of him because as a pitcher, you aren't supposed to be able to hit. I do want to say that our good friend Bobby Huddleston did AMAZING! He hit 10 HR in the 1st round and 6 in the 2nd! Watching him was so neat, it was like he was never gonna quit. This is Levale hitting his HR!!! He did so good!

Saturday morning Levale and dad got up and went to work at the hunting land! Bow season started on Wednesday, so they had to get the field prepared, change the camera locations, and the stands hung! They returned and then Ash, James, Mary Carlton, Taylor, Levale and I went to the Auburn vs. Arkansas game. We had so much fun enjoying the atmosphere and being with our friends, but Auburn was TERRIBLE!!! Levale says he has never seen them this bad since he became an Auburn fan! Dad had dinner cooked for us all after the game, so we ate and called it a night! Sunday we went to church and then had a family lunch at Mammy's. That is one thing Levale & I have really enjoyed since we have been home is our family lunch...we sure do miss that during the season! Sunday night Ash, James, Levale and I went to see "Fireproof". It was WONDERFUL! It had a great message, and if you haven't seen it then I recommend you do!

I didn't have any pictures from the Auburn vs. Arkansas game, so these are from the Auburn vs. Vandy party we had at our house! We lost then as well!!! Above: My angel, Maggie supporting our Tigers! Below: Morgan, Me, Whit, Felder, and Court after the game

Mom and Dad/ the Cook and his Bride!!!
Me and my honey...we had so much fun! We used ALL of our "Auburn" dishes, and I cooked tons of food!

Now on to the title of my blog...On Monday morning we got a call saying Levale had been taken off the Nationals 40-man roster, and was being put on waivers. Well, we thought this meant the Nationals had his contract 1 more year...we were WRONG!!! Apparently, after you are taken off the 40-man roster for the 2nd time, you automatically become a free agent! (if you clear waivers, which he did on Wednesday) We had no clue this was the case! This could be a good or bad thing. A good thing because we can negotiate, and a bad thing because right now we have no clue where we will go, or which team we will be with! No matter what, we know Our God is bigger and better than any baseball team or manager could ever be and he has a HUGE plan for us! We are both so excited to see what this season holds for us! I will keep you all up to date, but we can't start talking to teams until sometime in November. We would appreciate all your prayers until then...nothing specific, just that the Lords will be done.

So Goodbye to our Nation's Capital! I hope someday we will visit their park again so we can see all the wonderful staff, and our great friends! We really did enjoy our September, even though it seems like so long ago!!!

GOD IS SO GOOD

2008-10-02T18:49:00.000-07:00

We are HOME!!! We arrived here on Monday afternoon around 1pm! We have been non-stop since we have walked in the door! I never realized how dirty a house is after no one has lived in it for 7 months. We have restocked the frig and cabinets, washed all our clothes, started doing yard work, and only just begun the LONG process of cleaning the inside of the house from top to bottom! We are so glad to be here, and have been enjoying spending time with our family and friends. Not to mention, eating the BEST meals! Enough on home...I am going to blog about what I promised in the last one, COLUMBUS!

What an AMAZING experience! First off, we started off looking for a place to live and couldn't find one anywhere. After spending an entire off day searching and getting back the same answer of, "we won't do a 3 month lease" I was tired and frustrated! I was on the verge of Maggie and I coming home, and Levale sleeping on a couch, when sweet Kenna Shell called! She explained that another couple used to live with them, but had been called up, and they needed roommates. We moved in that day, actually, I moved us in that day! We had so much fun with them, (even though it was for a short time in AAA) and later got to spend the last month with them in the Big Leagues!This is me and Kenna at a John Michael Montgomery, Little Big Town & Phil Vasar concert. The guys were on a road trip, so Kenna and I chose this as one of our "Girls Night" activities! Even though it rained, and we left early, we had so much FUN!

After the Shells got promoted to the Big Leagues and moved out, the Sanches moved back in! For those of you who have FB or Myspace you have seen tons of pictures of little Charlee. She was my heart. She loved her Pa-Pa, and she knew she could get most anything she wanted from me! She is the most precious child. It was so fun to watch her grow and learn so many NEW things while living with her. Her sweet parents, Kylie and Brian taught us so much about marriage, raising a child, discipline, compromise, baseball, finances, and the list goes on, and on, and on. They have such a strong christian marriage, and are some of the most amazing people I have ever been around. We miss them already. They became some wonderful baseball friends, whom we will love and cherish forever! Like I said in an earlier blog, we are strong believers the Lord puts us in places to teach us different things. He put us living with Kylie and Brian to learn through them!

Kylie and Brian Sanches

Charlee loved the toothbrush! She would help Levale brush his teeth at night!

She also loved the suitcase. She would always help me pack, or should I say unpack while I was packing!

And lastly, her infamous "PRETTY FACE!" We loved it, and made her do it all the time for us. We had so much fun with them, and made so many wonderful memories!

Then there were the Bacsik's. Another amazing family! One of the most creative, beautiful, loving, patient, calm, always has a smile on her face, moms I have EVER met! Sue is such a breath of fresh air! I honestly don't think she could hurt a fly! Sue and Mike are known in my book as "Disney Mom and Dad." They were always planning fun things to do with their precious children Mary Grace and Jake, as well as coming up with ideas for us girls! Sue is such a woman of faith, and it shows in her everyday life. Being around Sue always made me want to be a better person, to not get frustrated with the small things, to be more patient and kind, and to always make the most of the situation you are in! Sue and Mike's beautiful little girl, Mary Grace, became one of my babies as well! She is the most imaginative child I have ever met, she is smart as a whip, and has the biggest heart of anyone I know (I thinks she gets that from her momma!). She never misses a beat. She would swim with me, and then on our "special treat" days (that's what I called them to her) she would get to ride to the game with me in her "big girl seat belt!" Then there is their ANGEL child, Jake. Jake is the BEST BABY EVER! Sue always joked that he was so high maintenance because he never made a peep. He would sleep through the entire game! We would all just take turns holding him because he was so sweet!

Mike, Sue, Mary Grace, and Jake Bacsik at the All-Star Break Bar-B-Que! One of our many activities!
MG with her "Cindy-Lou-Who's"! She is a doll!

Charlee loved Mary Grace, and MG was such a big helper with Charlee!

Sue and Baby Jake at Charlee's 1st Birthday Party!

Next there are the Schroder's, Tammy and Chris. They are so funny...always such a joy to be around! Tammy is precious! She is beautiful, caring, always willing to lend a helping hand, funny, smart, fun, easy to talk to, and would light up a room. She also has a HUGE heart, which is no surprise considering she is a pediatric nurse! She and Chris both are great with kids, and I know they are going to make amazing parents someday! Tammy and I did not have babies, so we always had fun together; laughing, joking, and dancing. They too are Christians, and I know the Lord put them in our life to teach us about Faith. Their faith in God, and his good, perfect, and pleasing will for their lives is astonishing! I learned so much from the two of them. I miss her dearly...she always knew how to make me laugh! Tammy and Chris at Chris's 30th Birthday Party!

Tammy and I got to go to the "Team Party" in Louisville, KY. We were the only wives there!!!

Tammy with Jake, MG, and Charlee. All the kids loved her. She was so good with them!

We made so many true, lifelong friends in baseball this year! Although, we are all in separate places for the off season, we keep in touch regularly, and we miss each other like crazy!

We were all very blessed to have a Christian Manager and Wife. Tim Foli, and his dear wife Ginette are two believers who spread the Word through this great game of baseball! Mrs. Ginette taught a couple's Bible Study and a Women's Bible Study. She is a true Woman of God. She knows the Bible, and is a wonderful teacher. She taught me more History on the Bible than I have learned my whole entire life! (And my parents have had me in church all my life!) She was such a blessing to all of us, especially us women. I can't wait to be with her again next year, so I can learn more!

Kristina, Tammy, Me, Charlee, Kylie, Betty Sue (my mother-in-law), Baby Jake, Ginette, Kerry, Sue, and Mary Grace

I know I continue to say it, but I truly believe we were blessed beyond belief this year! We made so many memories with so many AMAZING people! I will blog about DC in the next blog, so again, stay tuned! I will leave you with this...GOD IS SO GOOD, and he revealed himself to us in numerous ways this year!

THE YEAR OF BASEBALL

2008-09-26T17:11:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I am finally taking the time to try and figure this blog spot out!!! It's a lot harder than Myspace or facebook, so it has taken me a while! Also, now that the season is finally coming to an end, I figured I better do it, so I can keep up with my baseball families during the off season! This has been a LONG season. Levale and I were talking the other day when I came to the realization that I have lived in FIVE, yes FIVE , different places our first year of marriage. Not many people can say they have done that!!! As I reflect on the year I think of how blessed we have been, and how EVERY place we have been God had a plan for us THERE at that time.

First off, we moved from home, which is in Opelika, AL to Spring Training which is in Viera, FL. Our Heavenly Father used Florida as a learning experience for us both! Being married in November and moving away from our HOME, my family, Maggie and everything I have ever known in March was NOT PRETTY. It was the hardest thing I have ever done. We lived in a hotel for three weeks, I had to eat out every meal, and had no where to wash clothes. Looking back now, I think it was God's way of saying "WELCOME TO BASEBALL MY DEAR CHILD!" Levale learned to be even MORE patient than he already is in Florida. Needless to say we survived! I got to catch lots of rays, have many dinners with great friends, grow in my faith, and wash lots of clothes when we got home!
This is one of my favorite pictures from Spring Training! On Easter we cooked Easter Dinner for the guys! Stove Top isn't exactly the best, but for cooking in an apartment eight people (including two babies) live in, it works! Thanks to Corrie and Paige, Levale and I had some place to eat a true Easter Dinner with Turkey, Ham, Sweet Potatoe Casserole, Mashed Potatoes, Homemade Mac & Cheese, Potatoe Salad, Stuffing and Rolls!!!

Another memory I am fond of is watching the shuttle land! Levale, three of his teammates and I piled in, and went to watch the shuttle land...off of a dock, on the bay!

After Spring Training, we were off to Harrisburg, PA! Oh, it was SO COLD! We picked up Maggie on our way up and spent one night, which happened to be MY BIRTHDAY at HOME in OUR bed! We lived with a host family in Harrisburg who were AMAZING!!! They were so nice. She cooked dinner for the guys every night, and it was so nice to live in a HOME. I will never forget the way they made us feel. We will forever be indebted to them. Unfortunately, I have no pictures of them and us, but I do have one of the other couple that lived at the house with us. The Hall's were such great Christian people. I now realize the Good Lord put them in our life to teach us about marriage and he put us in Harrisburg to teach us to grow in HIM and trust HIS plan, not OURS!

Josh, Joshua, Corrie, Me, and Levale after a day game in Harrisburg, PA. Corrie and I had so much fun together. I would go to her "HOME, HOME" with her while the boys were gone. It was quite a sight...Me, Corrie, Joshua, Maggie and her dog, Max would pile up and drive to Lynchburg, VA! Oh what wonderful memories I have!!!

After Josh and Corrie went home, this is what we spent most of our off days doing...swimming with Maggie. It was such a blessing to have her with us for the majority of the season. We enjoyed her so much, and she enjoyed herself as well!!!

After Maggie and I drove home to Opelika, 12 hours, stayed two weeks, drove back, 12 hours to Harrisburg and stayed there for a week. We got a call! Levale was being promoted to AAA which is in Columbus, OH. Thank You Jesus is all I could say, but unless you know a lot about baseball, you don't know what moving means! We had to pack up our whole house and Maggie in about two hours and drive to meet the AAA team in Toledo, OH. Luckily, the team hotel took dogs, so Mags and I drove with Levale, stayed there for two nights and then headed to Columbus, OH! This is where I began to LOVE EVERY SINGLE SECOND OF BASEBALL!!! I am going to create an entire post on Columbus, so stay tuned...it will be coming soon!

Figuring it out!

2008-07-27T16:50:00.000-07:00

I am extremely new to this, and will be experimenting while I am at home! Many of the fellow baseball wives are blogging and have been on my case to begin...after lots of procrastination, I decided to join the blogging world. After all, it's the perfect way for our family and friends to keep with us in this CRAZY, but oh so FUN life we live! Also, after chatting with the girls, we decided it's a good way to keep up with one another during our MUCH needed OFF SEASON. So bare with me, be patient and... WELCOME TO THE SPEIGNER'S SPECTACULAR JOURNEY!!!