The Eich Life

1 degree farenheit

2010-01-09T07:01:00.000-08:00

That's the temperature in town, so up here it must be colder. But it doesn't seem to feel as cold with all this snow on the ground, as if all the moisture has frozen out of the air.

Here's some pictures I love.

Alright alright alright alright

2010-01-05T07:16:00.000-08:00

Bad bloggers unite! I have some requests for pictures, and I mean to oblige.

Yes, I have ruminations on the new year, new decade. I have some adventures to share from the month since I last posted. We have had some lovely homey holidays with the people we love most. I will tell you about all those later. Or not. Maybe 2010 will be all about the present. For now, I will just share some pictures from our New Year's weekend with Ella and Will. This was

our fourth new year celebrated together, and the first one that we had snow!

This is our third snow of the year! Can you see the roofline

behind the big tree? That is our house.

Eli is impressed. And waiting for his dogs to return.

Burly mountain men.

Who knew burly men could sing? I believe this was "I Will Run After You" by Frank Black

Again, very impressed.

Eich men love down.

He sort of looks like a puffy little baby robot to me. I can't explain it.

at Joyce Kilmer

You'd never guess they are freezing their patooties off, would you?

It's a long way back to that Costa Rican sunshine!

frosty morning hike

2009-12-02T07:44:00.000-08:00

I am sure this was not the first frost for our mountains this year, but it was the first one that I got to revel in. The dogs needed some leg stretching, so we wandered up and down our mountain for a bit and enjoyed the ice-edged woods.

Bryce has ordered a full-body down bubble for the boy, but until it comes, I just wrap him in a puffy jacket and plop him into the backpack. He was warm enough to fall asleep, which was lovely since we are in a weaning, condensing and decreasing nap-purgatory these days.

But I have hope for the days ahead, even if they will be mostly filled with me, this little guy and our frosty perch above the world (because, seriously, I don't think we could leave if there were any REAL ice on our roads... time to stockpile!)

We are here!

2009-11-12T06:16:00.000-08:00

Oh, my. Why do I (not ever) blog? I thought I would do it more now that we have moved and I have a surplus of downtime... but I think I packed my downtime in one of these boxes and haven't come across it yet. And I never download pictures... which is probably the real reason.

In any case... we are here! We have started the Eichelventure of North Carolina. Robbinsville, NC, to be exact. Yes, of course you have heard of Robbinsville... it is the home of the Tail of the Dragon for you motorcyclists, it is sandwiched between 2 beautiful lakes and the AT, and most importantly, it is where Nell was filmed and where this scene from my Dad's all-time favorite movie was shot (you should wait for the inappropriate soundtrack for that clip... who does these things?).

Robbinsville, population 2,oo0 (8,000 in the whole county). There is no hospital in Graham County (which is why Bryce gets to work in an ER in a primary care clinic here- nice), no Wal-mart, no coffee shop... and only a smattering of traffic lights (maybe 5? 8?). We DO have a good grocery store and a mexican restaurant, thank God! What I have been surprised by since arriving is that this lifestyle is not such a huge adjustment. Raised in a small town, I think I have basically lived like a small-town girl in every city where we have lived. We eat at the same couple of restaurants instead of always looking for the new best thing. We go out to concerts, shows, museums only sporadically (and Asheville is only 1.5 hours away). We walk, we bike, we cook, we have friends over. The only thing lacking here is sidewalks... and friends! Well, and a place to meet up with these friends when I don't want to clean my house...

There have been some aspects of life here that are seem refreshing to me, and totally natural. We went to a Halloween festival at the local high school (which is the center of the community- same as Dickson). As we drove away, Bryce commented that no high school in Atlanta would have ever hosted an event for families and small kids. That is just not what high schools are for... in the city. Weird. I also now remember why we spent all of our time in high school "driving around" as a destination in and of itself. Come to think about it, that is how Bryce and I spent the majority of our dating time in Rome, Ga. That and walking, lots of walking, which is another post for another day. Baby and I have some driving and hiking to do today!

Nashville Favorites: Hikes

2009-09-28T11:43:00.000-07:00

So, as I am processing our impending move, I am thinking through things we love about la vida Nashville. One thing is how easy it is to get to a good hike- even inside the Davidson County limits. So, here are the go-to getaways, all within an hour (or at least really close):

Favorite Unknown Spot: Beaman Park

This is our usual destination. It is north of town, an area we are so intrigued in. We would love to own land up there some day, but for now, we will get our hiking fix at this new park. Last year, the trails weren't even finished, but now there are more all the time. And fun creeks for the dogs to play in. There aren't many people up there, so you don't feel too bad letting the dogs off the leash. We hiked there when it snowed in January, there is always more ice up on the ridges north of Nashville.

Easiest: Shelby Bottoms

If only there was some way to count the number of Eichelsteps that have fallen here, especially with Bryce's running! If he is going farther than a couple of miles (and I have no idea when Bryce has only run 2 miles), he usually heads this direction and traces every inch of blacktop and some mudtop! We have walked, run, biked and carried a baby in a sling all over that place. We love getting all the way back to the pedestrian bridge. It is a beautiful view of the river and you can cross over to Wave Country and watch kids try to break their necks at the skate park there. We rode bikes over there when I was 6 months pregnant, which I don't recommend on a mountain bike. I kneed my belly with every pedal! Seriously, though, if I had a book of every lovely conversation I have had with friends in this park, I could re-read it monthly and have a perpetually warm heart.

Best Spandex and Range Rovers: Percy Warner Park

We hardly ever get out there these days, but we have run there to train for hilly races. There are so many people, but you really do feel out there once you get back in the woods, even though you are in the bellest of the Belle Meade!

Like Comin' Home: Montgomery Bell State Park

I have no objectivity on this one, since I grew up a couple of miles away and caught crawdads in the creeks, and dirtied my bum on many a trail, but this is a great little park to get lost in. Beautiful lakes, historical stuff, great trails (even a couple of overnight ones) and the site of our wedding (just past the stone church in Church Hollow.) I really do love this place. If you drive there from Nashville, take the scenic route by getting off the interstate Bellevue and heading west on 70. You can stop at the Narrows of the Harpeth for a little swimmin' (or canoeing!... but that is a different favorites list) and eat at Carl's Perfect Pig in White Bluff for some barbecue.

Worth the Drive: Fiery Gizzard

It's a bit of a drive to near Monteagle, but you can be hiking in an hour and feel like you are in a different world. It is always a couple of degrees cooler back in those moss-covered ravines and there are so many good little swimming holes. We have driven there so many times, and also love to stop there on our way back from trips farther afield (like Atlanta). Also, the Stuckeys on the way back is my favorite truck stop ever and has great bathrooms, goo-goo clusters and chocolate malts.

I realize that we will have even better access to hiking in Western NC (like the AT!), but the geography of middle TN has built my own inner topography. With this fall weather falling upon us (in between muggy rain showers), you should probably get out there now!

Wait... is that deer wearing my hat?

2009-09-25T12:01:00.000-07:00

Bryce just told me that he has to go run for 2 hrs because he has to go all the way back to the spot in Shelby Bottoms where he left his shirt and hat a few days ago on a run. I just thought that was funny.

And, yes, that's right. His hat does say "Mr. Squirrel" on it. How does he expect them to resist? If a squirrel left a t-shirt in your house that had your name on it, wouldn't you wear it?

Our littlest squirrel has not left any of his clothes in the woods.

Elijah: Month by Month

2009-09-21T14:01:00.001-07:00

Oh little man, you are one today. I don't think I could have predicted how much fun I was going to have with this Eli adventure.

I think you seem older today, too. You are so close to walking. You can wave and clap and feed yourself. You are saying "no" and meaning it. Every time you see a dog, or hear a dog bark (or see a cat...) you say "dog, dog, dog." It sounds alot like "Da-da," but he is not offended. Actually, I think you speak in full sentences (and you seem to think so, too)- I just can't understand them, yet. You point at what you want, and try so hard to communicate. You also point to the sky constantly... I haven't figured out what that is about.

Looking back at pictures of you, it is hard to remember that you were ever that small, that skinny, and that... still. I know the days ahead are only going to get faster and messier, but I can't wait to see what you have up those tiny little sleeves for us!

September 21, 2009

August 2009. Eleven Months Old.

July 2009. Ten Months Old.

June 2009. Nine Months Old.

May 2009. Eight Months Old.

April 2009. Seven Months Old.

March 2009. Six Months Old.

February 2009. Five Months Old.

January 2009. Four Months Old.

December 2008. Three Months Old.

November 2008. Two Months Old.

October 2008. One Month Old.

September 21, 2008

8 pounds 4 ounces

20 inches

You gotta see these pictures...

2009-09-16T06:41:00.001-07:00

Classic Country

2009-08-30T09:38:00.000-07:00

I can't be ashamed of who I am. Driving home from the farm last week, I had very few options for radio stations, and I chose classic country all the way. I don't mean old school americana cool country, I mean 80's and 90's pure cheesy all the way. It made me so happy.

I sang this one, which oddly my dad always said reminded him of me. I really wasn't a rebellious teenager, I just didn't comb my hair ever.

Then I had a lovely time with this song, which really made me want to own a karaoke machine. I love karaoke all the sudden. Kate Tanis, if you ever read this, you did this to me. Then of course, who doesn't love this song? Maybe a lot of you don't, but if so- I don't want to hear it. Also, as I am finding these videos, what is up with the "scene-setting intro" on so many music videos from the 90's? Interesting.

As a personal history sidenote, my family got cable when I was in high school. We were infatuated with CMT for a time and we recorded our favorite music videos onto a VHS tape and would watch them A LOT. It was sort of a VHS mix tape of sorts. I remember "She's in love with a boy" being on there, "God Blessed Texas," some Clay Walker song that I really loved, and oh so many more. I am sure that tape is still at the house.

Then, I heard a couple of new songs that renewed my faith that country music is still tugging heart-strings and making me cry, even when I know better. Thanks, Brad Paisley.

And this new song (the Alan Jackson one) reminds me of my mom, who is unashamed in her love for country. Me too, mom, I just don't always admit it.

Can contact wearers cook with jalapenos?

2009-08-15T09:25:00.000-07:00

I think the answer is no. I am wearing my glasses today.

But so glad you came over Harris and Job friends. Late night nachos are the best way to celebrate friends! Also, yesterday Bryce and I saw this in Dickson at the Roxy Theater:

It was so terrible and I was sitting there wanting to throw up, and then Bryce said the sweetest words for a special date: "you don't have to stay and watch this if you don't want to." So I promptly moved on to the second hour of this:

So much better. You know you've been married six years when it is just as romantic to watch movies separately. Of course we had to give each other complete plot re-caps afterwards. I cried again in the re-telling.

Mucho thanks to grandparents who love their Eli time!

Thoughts on place along the river

2009-08-15T07:41:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, Bryce took me to see Gillian and Dave and Old Crow Medicine Show at the Riverfront as a lovely birthday present (fitting since the show is called "The Big Surprise Tour.") They, along with the other bands (who were new to me), played on each other's songs and had a ridiculous amount of fun together on stage. With the sun setting over the buildings and the breeze off the Cumberland, it was a delicious evening and my heart was full. It got me thinking about where we are, where we are going, and the blessings piled on the banks along the way.

photo borrowed from for2now2 on flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/2now2/3805186038/

If you've talked to me lately, you know that I am having a hard time with our move to Robbinsville, NC at the end of September (though I am actually talking about it now, as you can see, which is an improvement.) This week has been a lovely, busy reminder of all the people I have here in Nashville that fill up my life in a talking, laughing, eating, walking kind of way.

Even there at the concert there were friends and friends of friends that we have connected with in the last couple of years and friends who I have held somewhere in my heart for years...Brent is home from Mexico and we have missed him, especially as he has helped celebrate most all of the major milestones in Bryce and I's life. Dawn and I caught up while Gillian played and laughed about how I would run to catch the bus in fifth grade looking like I had never heard of a hair brush- nineteen years ago! Dear Ariana was home knitting on our couch, minding a baby, and we probably had three other friends that we could have just plopped him in a pack n' play at their house for the evening. Around every corner in our neighborhood are friends, glorious friends, ripe for the conversation picking!

I know how moving is... I know what is coming. Evenings spent home with projects instead of conversation. Inviting people over for dinner and then wondering afterward if that was a one-night stand or the beginning of a friendship. Not having any person to call and walk with during my afternoon crazies when I HAVE to escape my house. And while it sounds like I am being pitiful (and I really do need people), I am almost looking forward to it.

Whenever I have entered these times of solitude (starting college, moving to Nashville), beautiful things have resulted (especially visible in retrospect.) Things that I would not have heard, made, quilted, journaled, or seen about my life (and my God) if I had more people to fill up my time. This time won't be exactly solitude, of course, since I have my favorite men in my life along for this Eichelventure. But I will be going from feasting to fasting, as far as present friends are concerned. Fasting has it's own beauty, though, it's just not as loud about it. I should probably see if Thomas Merton and Henri Nouwen would like to come along.

Climbing on Rocks

2009-08-01T05:38:00.000-07:00

Still playing catch-up...

We spent a lovely Saturday at Foster Falls, near the Fiery Gizzard (where the blog header pic was taken) outside of Monteagle.

Bryce has been climbing a bunch at Climb Nashville and really enjoying it. I love when he

can sport about (a necessity for that man) AND be around people he enjoys. Our trip to Foster Falls was just that. Bryce had not been climbing outside, and I have never really seen it done, really. I think I could get into this part of the sport (assuming I knew how to be safe). We were there with lovely (and really good) climbers, Josh & Katie and Jason & Amber.

I didn't climb, but hung out with adventure babe, who was roundly admired by all the climbers we passed and then slept for a bit in my lap. He is so much more likely to sleep in someone's lap when we are outside. Maybe it is the breeze on his face, I don't know. We swam at the falls before we left and (of course) stopped at Sonic. That is a necessary part of any outdoor sport, in the Eichelbook.

Speaking of face, I couldn't resist sharing this picture. Total non-sequitur.

Don't just stand there...

2009-07-31T06:24:00.000-07:00

...baby, get back to that laundry!

Swimmin' Hole

2009-07-29T15:33:00.000-07:00

So, the summer is flying past and very few of the pictures are getting stuck here on the blog... I have so much to recount, but for now let us meditate on one of our favorite summer pastimes- swimming at the Narrows. Canoeing with a baby is not so possible (though we did go on our anniversary- I will share that soon), but swimming? Why not? Forget the fact that Ariana saw a mother copperhead with a nest of babies at this very spot last summer. Just enjoy the water, friends!

Farm Baby

2009-07-10T15:27:00.000-07:00

These pictures were from May, but Eli was mad at me because I hadn't shared them with you. Here you are!

Mam-maw, rocking the jogging stroller

Bryce and Alan, cleaning up limbs from the crazy storm that is commonly referred to in western Kentucky as "Winter Storm 2009." It looked as if a giant went along the tops of all the trees whacked them with a dull weed whacker.

Chillin' with great-Mams

Driving the Gator

Road Trip

2009-07-08T06:54:00.000-07:00

This was on our way to the Lasley Family Reunion. Bryce had fed a boy and they were amusing themselves.

His dogz

2009-06-22T15:28:00.000-07:00

To start your weekend right...

2009-06-19T12:25:00.000-07:00

Oh how I love this. Gillian, when will we get a new album?

Friends, take a load off as it just gets hotter. Just put the load right on me, will ya?

8 months... and 27 days

2009-06-18T15:12:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted Wee's 8 month portraits yet. These are getting harder to take, as you can see. He is a mover now!

The kid now has 8 teeth (which he clicks together... is that weird or what?... I need to start feeding him steak so he knows what those teeth are for!) He has repeated "Da-da" once, but usually he is too busy keeping up his own steady stream of babble to repeat anything. He eats all kinds of things (most of them are "approved baby foods"... are sticks and leaves on that list?)

One thing about eaters that crawl- they get much grimey-er than babies that just stay in one place and feed on the mother's milk. I am glad he likes bath time now!

hiatus?

2009-06-18T06:13:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know I said in the last blog that my life got busier. Yes, I was talking about the mover and shaker that currently cleans the floors at my house (Swiffer-onesie anyone?), but I can't believe how crazy our spring has been!

Some of the events have been emotional, some sad, some ridiculously lovely, some we have been waiting for for ten years or more. As you can tell, you will have to buy me that coffee I alluded to in an earlier post to get more details. Last week we were in four different states and logged 24 hours in the car. Eli is such a trooper.

Now we are home and back in the game (the game being code for avoiding cleaning the house and looking for people to hang out with!) I have some pictures to share, I am sure. Hope all is well with you.

My life just got a bit busier...

2009-05-26T11:18:00.000-07:00

Beach Trip

2009-05-25T08:36:00.000-07:00

We went to Panama City Beach in late April, and I gotta say, it was one of my favorite trips ever.

Beth made Eli's sun hat.

We all have the same expression.

The water was cold, and those waves just kept wappin'.

Long walk on the beach.

Just beautiful.

Rosemary Beach.

Eli sings the blues.

Relaxin beachside.

Eli ate alot of sand.

Getting Close!

2009-05-19T09:04:00.000-07:00

Notice the Matrix-style camera moves.

Thoughts on Blogging

2009-05-19T08:21:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I've been a little bored with blogging lately. Can you tell? It feels like a hassle. I was thinking about it while sweeping yesterday (I sweep alot these days... two dogs plus one almost crawler means a mess!) I was thinking about my friends who blog so well and why I don't. I don't have the clarion insights of Katy, or the deep political questions of Alina, and I am not half as productive in a day as Clare. Or, to stop the tide of reassurances from nice people, if I have these things, I don't have them on the blog.

As I was sweeping, I thought to myself that it is because I am a conversationalist. I have been chided for the fact that on our blog, all is sunshine and light and bouncing baby boy. No doubts. No troubles. We appear to be living the dream. Now, we are blessed... deeply... but I also haven't figured out how (or why) to take a picture of the 3 AM cry-time or the winter-time, new-baby blues. The funny thing is, when I am discussing things with people (in person), I tend to focus on the hard parts. Bryce says that I make it sound like we fight all the time (though he calls them "discussions") because I like to talk about our "discussions" with other people so much. Also, I never know what I think about a book or a movie until I talk about it with someone. But, my blog doesn't feel like a conversation to me. More like a monologue.

Now don't get me wrong, I LOVE to talk about myself. I embody the narcissism that blogging was made for. Me Me Me. But I just enjoy being narcissistic face-to-face. So, I will keep up this ol' weblog, mainly because I enjoy the logging part of it. I like seeing what we planted last year, what Wee looked like 7 months ago. It is fun for me to look back. If I come up with an interesting thought I might share it, but I am just more likely to hit upon those in the company of others. So let's just get coffee instead, shall we?

For making me a mother...

2009-05-10T07:30:00.000-07:00

I thought this picture was appropriate for my first mother's day.

Especially since our current conundrum of mothering is how to remind the baby boy that eating at 3 am and 6 am is not that great. He remains unconvinced. But he is so snuggly and cute that I really don't mind. For the next 18 years of his life (and more), I will think back on these days of feeding him in our big ol' bed and then falling asleep with his little fingers in my palm, his pokey toes in my stomach and his breath three times faster than mine. Like Paul says, "You are the burden of my generation. I sure do love you, now let's get that straight."

Baptism

2009-05-04T21:21:00.000-07:00

I know, I know. Way behind and all. April was a lovely month and I am going to post these pictures, even though we are well into May flowers... (so far, more showers than flowers, though).

Eli was baptized in April, right before he turned seven months. The day was just perfect, in my estimation. Baptism represents God's promise to his people, his covenant community, that He will do a work among them. He has brought me to Himself, and we are honoring His power to bring Eli to Himself, in His time.

We had family come from far away to be present on this day, and we so appreciated being able to celebrate with so many people. We had a small lunch before the baptism, and then filled up a couple of rows at church that night. The most true and deep-reaching part of the service was when Craig (our pastor) asked everyone who committed themselves to bringing up this child in the truth of the gospel to raise their right hand. Seeing all of those hands in the air, committed (in whatever way) to our son was sobering and humbling and encouraging all at once. It is amazing the way so many of these people have shown up in our lives and in Eli's life already.

I have been calling the gown the "5 Generation Christening Gown." I made the gown from fabric my mom provided, adorned with lace that Mam-maw gave me... lace that was made by her mother (the lace near the hemline of the gown) and by her grandmother's sister, Aunt Sarah (the tatting on the sleeves and neckline). Now we have an heirloom for all the grandchildren to wear when christened.
Chara, Bryce's sister and her family (sweet Sofia and Alejandro) came from Acworth. Sarah

(my sister) made it in from her weekend in Missouri, Kay came from Eufala, AL and Bryce's parents came from Atlanta. And don't forget the contingent from down home Dickson, TN! We are so blessed and thank God for all of you every day.

A Great Quote

2009-04-08T10:12:00.000-07:00

Garrison Keeler read a great quote on The Writer's Almanac today, a quote from Barbara Kingsolver that is so good I want to share it. She once said: "It is harrowing for me to try to teach 20 year old students, who earnestly want to improve their writing. The best I can think to tell them is: Quit smoking, and observe posted speed limits. This will improve your odds of getting old enough to be wise."

His father's son

2009-04-08T08:20:00.000-07:00

The hat, the tomato. This little man is an Eichelberger.

(sorry you have to turn your head sideways... we always forget when videoing).

A little bit of Mamaw for your day.

2009-04-03T09:03:00.000-07:00

Here she is telling me about "the old days" and clearing off the hill on our land. Below it a picture of the hill NOT covered in mist. And some cuties.

6 months and some

2009-04-01T09:35:00.000-07:00

Alright, alright. Someone is PAST six months now, but here are his half-birthday portraits. I really just had no idea what mom-hood was going to be like seven months ago, but we are rolling along with it! Spring coming has been wonderful. I am so glad to see his baby toes and to meet people for walks and hikes and such.
And this boy o' mine. He is a keeper. Such a kind and happy spirit- such a sweet smile to add a new and deep joy to all of my days. He loves standing and jumping (assisted, of course). Sitting is fine and all, but he tends to take a sideways dive after a few minutes.
Six months has also found us leaving Bryce and Eli for more boy time. It was like all of the sudden I started to feel attached and a bit crazy (just ask my mom- after I had way too much fun riding a four wheeler in Kentucky, she seemed a bit concerned for me.) A few hours out here and there has been just what I needed. Bryce loves adventures with a baby to the grocery store, so I am blessed in that way. In so many ways!
Oh, and eating. We are eating a bit here and there... and Eli likes food just fine- just like his parents. Just wait until he finds out about hamburgers. And Kettle Chips.

East Nashville Co-op Garden

2009-03-28T08:09:00.000-07:00

Some pictures from last Sunday:

What a crew.

Those girls can shovel.

I'm supervising.

They said it could never be done, but Andy and I ripped this screaming chunk of concrete from the bowels of the earth. Good job, Andy.

Filling the tire compost pyramid.

Our neighborhood group has adopted the East Nashville Co-op garden for the summer. We are collecting compost matter for their extensive compost system, and we had a good time gardening last sunday. Thanks to everyone who came, and I look forward to doing more work in the garden as summer comes on!

Nobody Likes Me

2009-03-19T08:41:00.000-07:00

Eli and I went back to the farm this week for a quick visit. One of my favorite things about my stay-at-home-ness so far is the freedom to go see Mam-maw more often. This video is a teaser. I have more pictures and videos and thoughts to share, but thought y'all might like this in the meantime.

Mimosas with the White Stripes

2009-03-13T07:51:00.000-07:00

Oh my, I forgot about some fun little pics I had to post... when was this? Maybe two weekends ago, we went to Marche to celebrate Amy's birthday. Blood orange mimosas for all (except Eli) and Amy just as lovely as they come. At one point I told her that "her friend" was here and she turned around all excited, but it was Jack White instead. I spent the rest of the brunch trying to think of ways to take pictures of him without seeming to... much to my sister's chagrin.

Here, Katie is letting me know just what she thinks about my ploy (If her head is a clock, check out 11). So sad I couldn't get Eli in it... I could save it for posterity. He will be so impressed when I play "Little Ghost" for him later in life.

This picture is the best, because I was taking one of the whole table and the waiter offered to take it for me. I said "Sure, just make sure you get Jack White in the background." Did I mention that Katie was embarrassed? What are little sisters for?

That same weekend some friends from Atlanta stayed with us with their 2.5 year old, Staughty. He is, quite simply, the coolest little bruiser ever. He will have a new sibling this summer, and was so sweet with Eli.

He found Bryce's bin of warm clothes for bike commuting by the front door and loved a pair of gloves. LOVED them, as you can see here:Thanks for coming to visit Katie and Clay! We will keep trying to convince you to move here!

Eich-made

2009-03-02T09:04:00.000-08:00

Some things I have made lately:

from an Amy Butler pattern (acorns added)

I am thinking I will make more of these to sell at a craft show at the end of March.

I could put any little motif on them, any suggestions?

shirt for Olivia Beasley... one year old!

Sofia's elephant. Eli got a more manly version.

These are actually from Christmas, I just never posted them.

I'm talkin' bout the man in the mirror

2009-02-28T08:49:00.000-08:00

Ash Wednesday

2009-02-27T07:00:00.000-08:00

Bryce and I have been looking forward to Lent. Lent is the 40 days that lead up to Easter, a time that the church has historically used for repentance and preparation for the celebration of redemption that comes with the cross. Many times this "preparation" involves fasting from something, or committing to pray more regularly.

I think it is so easy to see Lent as a time for self-improvement. Giving up cussing, or calories, so that by Easter you are a brighter, shinier, skinnier person. This is the opposite of a spiritual discipline. These things make you feel better and better about yourself as you succeed, or worse and worse as you sneak the goodies you promised not to have. In the end, we are left looking at ourselves and the rules we have kept or broken.

If my fast doesn't cause me to look to God as the Giver of every good thing, as the Bread that is sweeter than chocolate cake or cookies, as the Strength for my body that is so weak that it needs food constantly, then my fast is really just about me. And I certainly can't save myself... though I try all the time. We read through Isaiah 58:1-12 last night with our neighborhood group. Such a helpful passage when thinking on fasting.

We went to an Ash Wednesday service this week at Redeemer Anglican Church. Eli went with us in a little baby-frontpack I was wearing. We all went down to receive our "marks," a cross of ashes on our foreheads. It was going great... a nice poignant reminder of Jesus. The priest said to each person as he marked them "From dust you were formed, to dust you will return." Then, after he marked Bryce, then me, he leaned lower and marked Eli and that changed everything for me.

This is the mark of the curse of death he is putting on our faces. This is a sign of our human frailty, brokenness, sinfulness. The sign of the power of death. How DARE he mark Eli. It was so powerful to me, how much it shook me up (and Bryce, too). But that is the truth... if we are not broken, we do not need a Redeemer. Death is a powerful force, yet Christ has broken the bonds of death to redeem his people. I see signs of brokenness and death all around me. This is a reminder that it is IN me, and in Eli, too. Eli needs a savior.

Come, Easter, come.

Tasty toes

2009-02-26T09:10:00.001-08:00

Bryce's new favorite thing is taking pictures of little man eating his toes. Now that he is getting teeth, he has bitten them and been so surprised that it hurts that he starts crying. It is hard not to laugh.

We have some other pictures of toe-eating, but he is entirely too naked for me to post. Does anyone else ever think about the fact that when Eli applies for a job, there will be all of these pictures in the web-iverse? Or will we have a whole new holographic, interactive internet by then? If so, I want to hang out with the hologram lady from Jem.

5 Months

2009-02-26T08:21:00.000-08:00

Well, world, here I am. After 5 months, I am getting the hang of being here. Things aren't quite so shocking. Boy, do I love people. And the weird songs that my dad makes up for me. I have one tooth... not so terrible of an experience after all. I am not as good at sitting up as I look in this video, but give me a break, okay? I am working on it. My favorite person is... myself- when I see that handsome devil in the mirror, I can't help but smile and laugh!

Aunt Life Grand

2009-02-19T07:26:00.000-08:00

We spend most Wednesdays with Dr. Sarah, DVM. She has Wednesdays off from her vet practice in Clarksville. This week she had to cover for another doctor, so we didn't get our special Sarah time. Last week we went to Dickson and had some lovely main street meandering- lunch at House Blend and shopping. Mmmm... grown-up grilled cheese. We love the antiques stores and Studio 123. I highly recommend downtown Dickson for a day trip. We like to take Hwy 70 through Pegram for the scenic route... and maybe even stop at the Narrows of the Harpeth for a hike or swim. I will post pictures of those activities when summer comes- be assured.

Also, I recommend teaching your baby to knit at a young age. He can make his own hats and it sure beats baby sign language!

My Urban Valentine

2009-02-17T08:01:00.000-08:00

I have a bit of an attitude about Valentine's Day. I think it is wrong for an entire society to try to force me to spend money to prove my love. Bryce and I don't really do the present thing. Usually a homemade card and baked up tasty treats is enough for us. We do like taking any opportunity we can to celebrate, though. I mean, really- how astounding is it that I get to be with Bryce? I sincerely cannot get over it. His love is such a gift.

I think we needed to celebrate all the more this year. Having a totally dependent wee babe is very new for us. With Bryce in school and working, it does take a bit more effort to actually pause and look at each other in the middle of busy weeks. So that is what we did.

I suggested the Frist, Bryce thought we should walk. After he spend a good part of the day studying, we jumped in the car and stopped to pick up the best hot dogs ever. I got vidalia onion marmalade on mine. Oh my. Then we parked at the stadium and walked across the pedestrian bridge to downtown.

Wee and Dad and the Cumberland River.

Then we walked up Broadway like crazy tourists (actually we just had crazy tourists bump into us), gave some money to the man playing mandolin and walked up the hill to the Frist. We spent alot of time at the Paint Made Flesh exhibit... probably because Wee was asleep then. I loved it. We passed quickly through the Medieval Collection from Cleveland, much more quickly because Eli was getting hungry. Bryce wished we had more time with that part, the statues from 200 AD were pretty astounding. The Frist has an "interactive area," and we went there and drew each other. As you can see, whoever wasn't drawing was holding the baby.

Then we walked back as it was getting dark. We picked up Katie and went to Baja Burrito for dinner. It was a lovely double date (Eli hearts Katie) to end a lovely day! Oh, actually, we also made a chocolate cake when we got home... because you HAVE to have chocolate on Valentine's Day. I think I shall go have a slice right now.

Best Friends

2009-02-10T09:49:00.000-08:00

Eli's friend, Myles, is 3 days older and wiser. I hung out with both of them for a bit while Kelly and Andy went on a date and they were so funny together. It is interesting to see babies interact.

Eli: "So, anyway, here is a good joke I heard yesterday..."

Eli: "Hey buddy, I didn't mean to shock you- it's not a TRUE story..."
Eli: "Oh, never mind, let's just play wii bowling instead."

Inside Joke

2009-02-09T09:54:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, when he is eating, Eli likes to take a break to talk for a minute. It can go on for quite a bit, and he really appears to crack himself up.

That Becky.

2009-02-07T09:53:00.000-08:00

Well, today is Becky's wedding day... she will be joined in holy matrimony to the marvelous Mark. They are having a small ceremony, so I thought I would celebrate by posting pictures of her lovely shower last weekend. Lots of people love Becky, so it was a great time to get people together to celebrate her.

Becky is one of a kind. Totally without self-consciousness and a totally devoted friend. She and I became close our junior year at Berry and she would go on long ol' walks with me. I could actually use a Becky walk right now! Last weekend was also especially fun to get time with dear friends in mass (pictured above). I am so grateful for these friendships. We girls might be different on paper, but are so very the same, too. What a gift. And blessings on Katie for hosting, even though she was sick.
Of course, Eli had a ton of fun (as you can see with Aunt Chara and Natalie.) I couldn't figure out a way to have anyone watch him, especially since he is against bottles, in theory and in reality. I don't think I have ever seen him this happy for such an extended amount of time (6pm to 1am). This boy clearly loves attention. He is his mother's son.

And it was lovely to see some old friends from Berry, too.... girls that Becky has kept up with in her Becky way. We love you Becky! Happy Wedding! Enjoy that man on your latin honeymoon!

Back to Charlie's

2009-02-06T09:51:00.000-08:00

Mom and Dad's anniversary was this week, so we celebrated in Clarksville (Sarah was on call). In a stroke of semi-genius, we decided to go to Charlie's Steakhouse near Fort Campbell. Growing up we wore out the highway between Dickson, Tn and Joy, Ky going to see my grandmother at her farm. Charlie's was on the way and we would stop and eat there... but haven't been since we found a new route to the farm, over 15 years ago.

The placemats used to have cows on them and we would draw "cow paths" from one cow to another (are cow paths common knowledge? I have no idea) and there was a viewing box at the front door where you could put in a quarter and "See Rock City." Cow placemats and Rock City are gone, but the steaks are still good. As are my parents. They really are so supportive and kind, they are worth celebrating every day! So amiable!

Sarah told Dad that Eli really liked her scarf and that he had to wear it if he wanted to hold the boy. Doubles as a burp cloth.

Mom and Katie.

Eichelbreader

2009-02-05T09:48:00.000-08:00

So, I have been trying on bread-baking for size. It has always seemed so complicated to me, but my desire to not drive to Publix for good pizza dough along with $4 for good bread at Kroger made me want to give it a whirl. Really, it isn't complicated at all, you just need to be sort of around your house for 4 or 5 hours while it goes through its stages (mixing, rising, shaping, rising, baking).

I have been learning from www.thefreshloaf.com. There are lessons that teach you how to bake the most basic of bread, then how to play around with the ingredients, rise time, oven temperature, etc.

The pros of baking your own bread are: cheap bread, getting to eat it straight out of the oven with lots of butter (we lost a whole loaf this way one night), feeling so old-world and quaintly domestic that you want to sit and tat while your bread rises.

The cons are as follows: flour and water can be very hard to get off of things once they get gluey.... so clean up has to be constant and.... that is the only con I can think of. Working on a schedule can be annoying to me, but so far it seems like it can be so flexible that it really isn't a big deal.

All that to say, I think I will try a whole-wheat loaf this afternoon to go with some turkey soup. Baby it's cold outside!

Snow Day

2009-02-04T09:35:00.001-08:00

This was a couple of weeks ago, but worth sharing because it was such a great day. We woke up with snow on the ground. I thought that this meant we would not be going hiking as planned... silly me. Haven't I been married to this man for 5 + years? Katie and Josh and their new dog Roxy went with us to Beaman Park, near Joelton north of Nashville. They are still making the trails there, but it is one of our favorite places to hike. We would love to get land near there...

There is snow on the ground... just look close.

Dad and Baby-ro. I don't know why he calls him that.

The Harris Family

Then, after the hike, we stopped for tacos excelente at a stand on Charlotte Rd and then over to Climb Nashville for our multi-sport day! You know if it is a multi-sport day, then Bryce set the itinerary. I am into multi-meal days, personally.

Smallest climber at the gym.

Then, back to our house for dinner... soup from the crock pot. I always feel like a genius when I use the crock-pot. And as we were eating our delicious potato, acorn squash, sausage and tomato soup I kept saying, "I am a genius!" Humble, too. Yay for MLK Day!

Catching up...

2009-02-04T09:26:00.000-08:00

I am forever behind in the pictures of wee one that I have to share.

Hanging with Aunt Katie... Aunt Sarah is just out of frame singing rap songs about Eli, as always.

Enjoying a bit o' the tummy time.... until...
Mom's lack of foresight ended up with a small bump on his head. Good job, mom. He is still happy in this picture...but once he hit his head, I can assure you that he was not happy any longer.

Dad is multi-tasking.

Ready for bath time! For some reason, every time I get him all de-clothed for his bath, I always bring him out for Bryce to see him, and then again when he is all wrapped up in his towel. I heart naked baby.

4 Months

2009-01-29T06:52:00.001-08:00

Another month older and wiser.

Here are some things that Eli now knows about this wild world:

1. My hands are tasty. If only I could get them BOTH in my mouth at once.

2. Baths might actually be fun, not just totally mystifying.
3. I thought my mom is supposed to understand my every cry. Why does she keep trying to feed me when I am tired?

4. My aunt Sarah always sings rap songs when she sees me. Interesting.

5. Boy do I love watching football with my Grandpa. Big screen TVs are almost as great as ceiling fans!
6. Dad calls me Chigger, E-bo, and Chicken Bump. I guess you can't trade in parents at this stage of the game...

As if you wanted to know...

2009-01-28T18:47:00.000-08:00

Okay, this is from Facebook, but I thought I would go ahead and post it here, too. What is a blog but a central place for all one's narcisistic randomness?

25 Random Things about Me

1. 4 people had to tag me before I broke down and did this.
2. I like telling stories more than sharing facts.
3. I consider myself lazy (though I use the term "cozy" in my head). I thought motherhood would change that... I will let you know.
4. I hate veins (my own especially) and am most aware of them when I walk into hospitals and nursing homes. I am getting light-headed typing this. When I am aware of veins, I have to uncross my arms and legs (and I just lifted my wrists OFF the keyboard). Don't ever check my pulse.
5. The hardest thing I have ever done is birth a child. Don't know what I was expecting, but it was harder. I can't believe how beautiful that slimy screaming boy was and is.
6. I think cloth diapering is easy and am willing to evangelize.
7. My two favorite adventures were hiking and camping in the Picos de Europa in Spain (because of the cows with bells on and the soup and wine we had afterwards) and backpacking in Aspen, Colorado (it snowed, Bryce needed my help, and we stayed in a swanky hotel after)
8. My husband causes me to attempt more physical feats than if I had married my lazy twin. I love that he always wants to be outside in all weather and gets me out there too. It makes coming back in so much more fulfilling than if you never left.
9. I have just become a person who bakes bread, which I see more as a character trait than an action, and I hope that trait becomes true of me now that I am attempting the action. Hmmm...
10. I love making things, but hardly ever finish things. I have 9 projects that were supposed to be Christmas presents that still are not complete.
11. I love old things much more than new things and my mom tells me to stop buying junk from thrift stores until I go through my grandmother's attic. Old fabric is my real weakness.
12. I make things in ridiculously complicated ways, because I think is inherently better if it is harder. I insist on hand-quilting instead of machine-quilting. What this means in reality is that I send all quilts home with my grandmother so that she can just do it for me.
13. Come to think of it, I would rather cook from scratch, too.
14. I feel deep shame in the summers when produce from our garden goes bad before I use it. I really feel guilty even talking about it.
15. I have broken five or seven bones (some were just stress fractures), had a root canal because of sledding incident, had a nosebleed caused by a pencil up my nose, have been hit by my own car (just caused another nosebleed) and have been hit in the face with a rake. I don't consider myself particularly unlucky.
16. My husband is the biggest hearted person that I have ever met. I truly feel that the world would be better off if they could all be friends with Bryce.
17. My favorite urban adventure was going to San Francisco with my sisters last summer. Gordon Girls Take on Napa in a Mini Cooper! Woo-hoo!
18. Katie is the most common name in my phone. Josh is second.
19. I LOVE Willie Nelson and Lyle Lovett. I like to think that they love me, too.
20. My sisters and I would put on talent shows and "Star Search" and videotape it. I did a ribbon dance to "Man in the Mirror" once- very moving. We also acted out "I Think We're Alone Now" by Tiffany in my grandmother's barn.
21. If I had to pick a place that I identify with most, it would be my grandmother's farm in Joy, Kentucky.
22. When we were little, we go into the woods behind our house in Dickson and come out in a little field with a gate and a water culvert where our Hawaiian Barbies like to swim. We called this place "Hay Hotel."
23. I won the Spanish Medal in high school, but didn't learn to speak it until I went to Peru for two months. I love seeing my Venezualan in-laws because I get to practice. I always sing kid's Bible school songs in Spanish and I always talk too loudly.
24. I am a very self-involved person and LOVE attention, but these 25 things are wearing me out.
25. This year I hope to spend lots of good time with people I love. That is very important. I hope lots of good food is involved as well.

What is ahead?

2009-01-20T12:18:00.000-08:00

I always channel my mom at new beginnings... every time Bryce heads out the door for a new first, I feel the need to snap a picture. You know... to put on the fridge next to his finger paintings. His first day of nursing school, shortly after we got married in 2003, his first day at his job at Metro ER here in Nashville in 2005, his first day of the nurse practitioner program at Vanderbilt... all recorded.

Here he is just about to go to his first interview for an NP position in Robbinsville, NC. It was a good option in so many ways and would be a great place to start out.... We will see what happens! Bryce said when he walked in the rural clinic, they thought he was a drug rep because of his suit.

Though, I must admit, all the talk of interviewing, choosing our own adventure and maybe moving makes me tired. Eli, too:

Sharing Lives

2009-01-16T11:58:00.000-08:00

I think that one of the things I have enjoyed most about Nashville living is having people over for dinner. I am no good at planning, having food ready or forks clean when people show up, but I just love sitting at a table with new friends and old friends and sharing food and conversation.

The first time we had people over after we moved into our house, I was convinced that I had to serve APPETIZERS since I now had a table to serve people on... unfortunately I was just putting the stuffed mushrooms into the oven when everyone arrived- I hadn't even started the main meal yet. Everyone else stayed busy with gin and tonics while I made biscuits, started a fire in the oven and had to finish the salmon in the microwave. Bryce showed up 45 minutes late with our new 80 pound hound dog to a smoky, tipsy house! Quite a night.

Be warned that if we have you over for dinner, you may show up to more people than I warned you of (sorry, Lisa and Dustin), you may have to make the salad (thanks, Lisa!), find your own bowl for the hummus (thanks, Katy!), invite yourself (thanks, Katie and Tish!), slice the cheese (thanks, Dustin!), share a napkin (thanks, Bryce!), hold the baby (thanks, Emmy!), check on the pie (thanks, Amy!) or help with the grilling (good job, men!) I don't plan on getting it together any time soon... but I DO plan to keep having people over to share our lives.

Peter Pan

2009-01-09T11:27:00.000-08:00

I don't usually post videos, but this is the most incredible thing I have ever seen a person do. (I saw it on Flo's blog).

Business Man

2009-01-09T07:49:00.000-08:00

Well, Elijah has really enjoyed his holiday vacation, but it is time to get back to the office! Back to the daily grind. It is hard for a mini-human, typing away at his mini-computer, to not wonder what happened to the child labor laws of the past. But in this rough economy, kid has to earn his keep!

Ring in a New Year!

2009-01-07T08:11:00.001-08:00

It is officially a tradition. For the last four years, we have celebrated New Year's Eve with our best friends, Ella and Will. They are always in the US from Costa Rica for the holidays and it is always so good to have time with them. We got out to some low-key parties on NYE, and Ella cooked us up a super tasty mess of food while she was here (as is her way... a direct quote: "The only kind of gravy that I ever make is roasted garlic and rosemary" as if other people have more gravies in their belt than she does...) Mmmm... I am still thinking about that bread pudding.

I have realized that there is a magnet in our camera that locks in on a certain mini-human in the house, which is why I have no pictures of adults unless they are holding said mini. PS- who knew that we were adults? It is hard to keep up! It can't be that long ago that Bryce and Will were climbing into the trunk of the car when there wasn't room for everyone to go to dinner... Thanks for coming to see us, Ella and Will! we are so thankful for y'all!

Acrobat.

2009-01-02T15:38:00.000-08:00

Does anyone LIKE the way their voice sounds in recordings? Just have to share this:

Christmas: in five acts

2008-12-30T09:05:00.001-08:00

Prologue:

Our house, with the quickest lighting job in east Nashville. The 8 foot star (heralding wee Jesus, of course) is made from bamboo garden stakes, the trees, stage left are from tomato cages. We heart tacky lights.

Act One: Christmas Eve, the location is Acworth, GA and the scene is impeccably set for a Latin Christmas Fiesta by Chara (Bryce's sister), Alejandro and Preciosa Sofia, as well as Al's family who are here from Venezuela. We celebrated Venezualan style (read: lots of people, scotch and cigars, a late night feast, and presents opened at midnight.)

Chara and Bryce with their wee ones.

The lovely Sofia and her doting dad.

Fiesta Garcia!

Act Two: Maysilles Christmas Morning. We wake up whenever we feel like it- in laid-back Maysilles fashion, and then get straight to the sausage balls and moravian sugar cake. Actually, we are so laid back about it, we don't get around to presents and have to open them later, after we get back from the Eichelberger-time.

Wee Christmas Elf awakes!

Aunt Emily meets Eli. He already loves her.

Act Three: Eichelberger Christmas Dinner. We recognize that we won't be able to do all of this every year- since all of these celebrations are 45 minutes apart, but Elijah really enjoyed meeting his family...or we enjoyed showing him off- same thing, right? We went to Bryce's dad's sister's house and saw the Eichelbergers.

Three Generations of Eichelberger Men.

Bryce's dad was the only son, as was Bryce- so the pressure was on to have a boy!

Great-Grandparents.

Please note Elijah's business man outfit. It really cracks us up.

Texting with First-Cousin-Once-Removed (or FCOR) Erin

Wee One finds people time a bit exhausting.

Act Four: Eichelberger/Maysilles/Garcia Christmas Night. Now we get to the melting pot, when the Venezualan inlaws come over to the Maysilles house for gifts and red velvet cake. Sofia enjoys the Christmas beast, Eli wears his elf costume and Beth talks too loud in Spanish.

Presents with Grandad Dunc

The Christmas Beast

Act Five (whew! This really wasn't as tiring as it sounds): A Dickson Christmas Carol. We went to my family's house on Saturday. It was as relaxing and lovely. Mom and Dad's house in Dickson will always feel like home to me. Elijah is so proud of his new cloth diapers... he just can't quit wearing them! Smiling and giggling... I am sure it is all about those diapers.

Eli and Obi. And his elephant from F.A.O. Schwartz from Aunt Katie.

A pink elephant. He is very secure.

Katie is surprised at the overwhelming cuteness. He is in the outfit that Aunt Sarah got him for all his Christmas festivities.

Now: home again, richer and happier.

We are so thankful for all the people that love this little man.

Reading with Baby

2008-12-11T08:52:00.000-08:00

... not reading TO baby, mind you. Neither of these books would be appropriate for his young mind. Pillars of the Earth is entirely too tawdry (and I am ready to be finished with it!) Bryce was especially excited about the post-apocalyptic father/son journey in The Road, and I think he would highly recommend it. But not to Elijah for another fifteen years or so.

Lil Gordo

2008-12-11T08:44:00.000-08:00

I don't think I ever posted these pictures of Elijah wearing a hat that was my dad's when he was a wee one. He is working that sailor look. He comes from a proud line of Gordon men. Can you tell that my dad is glad to finally have a boy in the family?

Sing it!

2008-12-06T14:49:00.000-08:00

Okay, I know what my blog is: all baby, all the time. And truly, I have no idea what is interesting to just me and what is actually interesting to the world at large... i find the little man fascinating. With that introduction, I share a video of the song I enjoy most these days. You will need audio for this one...

Aunt Sarah loves to shop

2008-12-06T11:09:00.000-08:00

She bought me this outfit, plus a big fluffy white coat.

Then, they realized I looked a bit like Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers- what do you think?

A word about our dogs...

2008-12-05T09:03:00.000-08:00

Friends

Cash and Kentucky are peas in a dog-pod. Kentucky has shown her the ropes, so instead of being a mellowing influence, she is now keeping up with him in attention-getting. They have each other to play with all day, though- which makes me happy. And whenever Bryce goes out for a ridiculously long run with Kentucky, he says "Johnnycash" (that's what he calls her- one word), "stay here and protect my wife and my firstborn son."

Christmas Crafts!

2008-12-03T07:43:00.000-08:00

Well, it's December! I haven't gotten out a single Christmas decoration... but I HAVE started up the sewing machine (and knitting needles) for presents and such. I always have such an ambitious list of things I want to make for people for Christmas, and this year is no exception. We'll see what I actually get done.

Here is an elephant I am working on. I have wanted to try making stuffed toys ("softies" as they are called by crafty bloggers), but I am too cheap to buy a book to tell me how. So this is my attempt at making up a pattern, and it definitely has some weirdness to work out...

A group from church has gotten together twice to sew together. We just bring our machines and get cooking! I always get the least done of anyone (in this picture I am really just nursing, not actually sewing) but love to visit!

Here we all are with our goods... my favorite little craft is in his car seat sleeping and not in the picture. He was so good while we sewed all day, just looked around and cooed.

And here is the requisite cute kid picture. Like you want to hear about me!

Thanks for the Giving

2008-12-01T12:53:00.000-08:00

Have I mentioned how much I like Thanksgiving? It is by far my favorite holiday, so much better than my birthday. Just tons of family and tons of food- what more could you ask for? Our family really does it right. Cousins and Uncles and Aunts come from across the street and across the state and from Wisconsin and North Carolina and stay the whole weekend.

And there is a whole new generation taking over! I can't wait for Elijah to play with his Eichholz cousins. Isn't it odd that two of the Gordon girls have married Eich-men? Those four kids from the great white north keep us hopping (and doing lots of other silly things) and are truly precious people... we love them so much! I am so thankful for my family... odd as we may be.

Haere are two of my greatest blessings. Such handsome men!

Wee Bethany is such a little bird. Notice that both of us Beths have "stripes" (what she calls braids.)

And birds MUST have fabulous manicures.

Mamaw was very serious about getting time with her great-grandson. If a few hours went by and she had not held him, she would go and hunt him down. Then we would find her teaching him some new songs about going to the woods to eat worms.

Mom works all weekend to make sure that we are all well fed and that the dishwasher is always running. She just doesn't know that she means so much to so many people.

Ben and his brother Wyatt are the coolest little men. They are definitely going to have to show Eli the ropes. Wyatt will explain for him the way it all works, in detail, and Ben can show him what is worth eating!

Wyatt and Ben love some cousin Katie! Here they have in hand their favorite toys of the weekend... our cell phones. Later Wyatt made a phone out of legos and was texting the president.

Sarah and Bethany are peas in a pod. Both are firecrackers of fun and both have smiles like a lightbulb.

It has been a while since Dad has been in his chair with two little girls on his knee... I've known for a while that he would be a stupendous grandfather from watching him with these Eich-kids.

Two Months Young

2008-11-24T12:15:00.000-08:00

Yippee! Last Friday commemorated my second month in this crazy ol' world.

I have, in the last month, learned to smile. My dad really makes me want to smile more than anyone else. Mom just makes me feel hungry...

Yep, one month older and wiser.
And that Aunt Katie is quite the charmer. She thinks I have forgotten about the baby blanket she is making for me, but I haven't.

Lovely Livi Indeed!

2008-11-24T12:05:00.000-08:00

Eli and I met Sonya and Livi (8 months) for lunch last week.

I've been friends with Sonya since 6th grade, when her parents would take us all over TN in their suburban with a big ol' camper hitched on the back. We got into some very odd predicaments in many a campround across our fair state... I would always have a dirty bum OR fall in the lake or creek, Sonya busted her face on some roller blades, Jamie (not pictured) peed her pants in many an idyllic setting, and we all pretended to smoke to get this terrible guy to talk to us...

Times have changed, yet Sonya is STILL surprised if I wear dangly earrings or use lip gloss. Livi looks just like her daddy (and her dad gives Sonya the exact look pictured above as well)... who knew that Drason would be so cute as a little girl? That's a compliment by the way... Thanks for the fun times, past and present, Sonya!

Clay for President!

2008-11-17T11:13:00.000-08:00

Get out the vote! My friend, Clay, is an architect and builder. He could be showcased in Architectural Digest if YOU vote for him by clicking HERE. His is the first listing.

You can see more of his work at www.intowncottage.com. He is pretty amazing- designs and builds... so amazing that 2 friends of mine met inside one of his houses (the Pierce/Lee house, see website) and were married 5 months later. Magic! Now do your magic and vote for him!

New Addition

2008-11-11T11:40:00.001-08:00

Lest I forget, meet our new dog, Cash!

She is a darling dog and Kentucky is romping about with his new friend as we speak (or blog)!

Soak up Autumn!

2008-11-11T11:10:00.000-08:00

We went to a cabin this weekend in north Georgia with some Atlanta friends we don't see enough. Four families came (though Clare and Esme were surely missed) and we added up to one set of newlyweds, seven adults, 2 almost-three-year-olds, one almost-2-month-old and one bun in the oven (not my oven... is it necessary for me to make that clear?) We had good food, good conversation (though the menfolk DEFINITELY interrupted our interesting talk... to be continued, ladies) and good time with rowdy little boys.

Not sure who let Bryce pick the hike... it was a bit steep, but gorgeous. Eli's second hike.

We had a hearty sing-a-long. Clay brought some songbook from the seventies that had a strange mix of hymns and folk songs and "other." Proud Mary and Kum-Ba-Ya were on the same page.

Eli made some new friends, Staughty and Jack. Staughty will have a brother or sister in May (or June?) and the way he loved on Eli was a good portent. I just wanted to use that word. Katie will tell me if I used it incorrectly.

The morning before we left.

Obligatory Family Portrait. I like how the light is shining on angel baby.

Eli smiled at me tonight!

2008-11-09T20:13:00.000-08:00

We are laying on our bed, just staring in wonder at our son, talking to him... Bryce got about eight inches from his face and said "hey, buddy," and no joke, Eli focused in on Bryce and smiled! 3 or 4 times they repeated this, Elijah staring right at Bryce and smiling! Happy 7 week birthday!

Working on a smile...

2008-11-03T09:43:00.001-08:00

We have seen glimpses, flitting by... but I think this baby grin is here to stay.

Maybe we can make a change.

2008-10-30T06:57:00.000-07:00

I usually try to focus my blogging on the visual... but this morning I'm moved to say: maybe we can make a change. I'm not talking about the election, though I do encourage everyone to vote. I'm talking about the minute by minute choices we make and the systems each of us set up in our lives that guide our paths. I know this world is broken, things are not as they should be. But there is glory in this world as well, we can all feel it... a thing cannot be wrong unless a right exists.

Here is a picture of a tomato I grew. I just picked six ripe ones the size of my fist... in late October. And it's been cold too... I think the manure from Mam-maw's farm is responsible for the incredible harvest we've had.

Here is Beth and Eli enjoying the bounty.

Don't think the garden and these two aren't connected in my mind.

There is glory in this world.

A really nice morning.

2008-10-23T13:39:00.000-07:00

I was really looking forward to this walk.

What are you pondering, Eli?

I love this picture.

We walked two hours, stopped at a bakery, Beth even fed Eli a couple of times. You can't tell, but she's nursing in this picture. Ninja nursing.

Back at home.

One month old and loving it.

2008-10-23T13:29:00.000-07:00

I got a great momma.

I got a sweet crib.

I know how to put my hand in my pocket.

I'm gonna celebrate.

I'm staring at mom in the mirror... I weigh 10 lbs. 4 oz. today!

Monthiversary

2008-10-21T19:10:00.000-07:00

Guess who is one month old today? I took a special "one month" portrait, but I haven't downloaded it yet. Happy One Month, Eli! You are more fun than I thought you would be... but really, I just didn't know what to expect!

Bryce has an exam tomorrow... I think you can see why he is having trouble studying at the house.
We went to Clarksville to visit aunt Sarah a week ago. She danced with Eli in the living room until he passed out... and in thanks he peed on her bed. So sweet.
This picture sums it up... please note Bryce's killer hair and the clock in the background... that is 5 AM, if you couldn't tell.

Family Love

2008-10-09T15:59:00.000-07:00

Eli's aunt Mary sent all kinds of fun presents from North Carolina, including some John Deere socks. Pretty kickin!

He has lots of aunts to love him.

And a grandfather to ponder.

We took Mom for hot dogs at I Dream of Weenie for her birthday because we know her love language. There is indeed a baby hidden in my sling, but I am a messy eater and I try to protect him from that.

Great Grandmother Time!

2008-10-05T14:33:00.000-07:00

Elijah waits patiently while Mom is in the shower.

Stylin' in the shirt I made for him to come home from the hospital in (but then I couldn't find it, of course!)

Road trip to Joy, Kentucky to meet Mamaw!

She says that we have needed a boy in the family for a long time. She also told him he would need to help her take care of a groundhog she is after in the backyard... We've got big dreams for you, kid.

2008-10-02T14:09:00.000-07:00

Good morning, world.

That's just where he was until 10 days ago.

I love this picture!

Chillaxin'.

Yeah, that's just right, Beth's belly was that size until 9/21.

Elijah latches on, folds laundry, and goes for walk, ALL IN ONE DAY!

2008-09-30T07:17:00.000-07:00

Elijah's suck reflex is no joke. It's like a wet-to-dry vac. I feel for Beth.

But he makes up for it by helping Beth fold laundry.

Hey dude, sweet Maya wrap.

Goin' for our first walk.

Yes, there's a baby in there.

1 Week of Life!

2008-09-28T12:28:00.000-07:00

Elijah has been enjoying this new world for one week and is feeling fine. He would like to personally thank all of the people that have helped to make this week so special and to make him (and us) feel so cared for.... all the visits in the hospital, the sweet aunts who have loved on him, the people who have come by to peep at his little face and bring food and presents. We are surrounded by a generous community... what a blessing for a new little life.

His grandparents are especially dear for all they have done, whether near or slightly further, this kid is set for life with giving and wise grandparents who have poured love all over him. Thanks for coming up, Teresa and Duncan! And mom... that blackberry cobbler is love personified.
Elijah wants to send a special hello today to those keeping up from afar, especially Robbie Hall. We are thinking of you and praying for quick healing... Do you like the tractor, Robbie? Elijah can't wait for you to show him a thing or two on the farm!

2008-09-24T14:06:00.000-07:00

Elijah and Bryce get their nap on.

Aunt Chara.

Chara, Al, and Sophia really love Elijah. Thanks Alejandro for all the driving! Chara was a huge help!

Sophia knows how to have fun.

2008-09-24T14:00:00.000-07:00

Elijah's got people.

He's gonna learn to laugh.

Dressed for the ride home.

Hittin' the road.

Elijah is home!

Elijah Wayne Eichelberger: 2nd day

2008-09-24T09:53:00.000-07:00

Look how proud I am.

Katie's proud too.

So's Sarah.

Have clean diaper, will travel.

The most beautiful girl in the world.

2008-09-21T15:49:00.000-07:00

Behold! Elijah Wayne Eichelberger, 8 lbs. 4 oz. of oaken thunder! He is beautiful, as the photos attest, and we are sitting in the late afternoon just looking at him, in wonder, with Iron and Wine playing in the background. Elijah Wayne Eichelberger. An intense unfathomable miracle. We are so blessed.

Katie and Michael's Wedding

2008-09-20T08:30:00.000-07:00

We were so glad to be able to celebrate with Katie and Michael and Berry friends in Atlanta last weekend. Bryce was a bit nervous about a 4 hour trip, 2 weeks before the due date. His knuckles were white until we hit Chattanooga on the way back, around midnight. In any case, it worked out great. I was unable to stay off the dance floor like a good girl with a stress fracture in her foot. What can you do when "Hey Ya" beckons? Heed that call!

Becky was there with her FIANCEE Mark, Matt Anderson brought his lovely girl Sarah and Patrick and Alina were able to come! We missed Amanda and Ella and Will, but it was kinda crazy to get that many of us together. I enjoy everyone so much- amazing that we all would have met 10 years ago this month as we were tender young freshman.
And yet, some things never change.

Any Day Now

2008-09-20T08:25:00.000-07:00

Here is your last update from the world of ballooning Beth. A man at work said I looked like the girl from Willy Wonka who turns into a blueberry. I am sure I don't know what he means.

Big Belly Early Edition

2008-08-14T14:20:00.000-07:00

Okay, I've gotten a request for some belly pictures from far away friends. Here you go! I guess the first one would have been May ... the last probably almost a month ago. 6 more weeks to go!

Ghana

2008-08-05T18:57:00.000-07:00

I've been home from Ghana one month now, but am still processing the experience. When describing the trip, I keep using the word "Mind-expanding," which makes it sound hallucinaginic, I know. But the culture, language, and basic worldview is so very different from my own... I come from a culture that is individualistic; Ghana is community-focused, to an extreme and beautiful degree. My culture is optimistic about change, especially with regards to science and medicine; Ghanaians tend not to be. In my culture, we tend to expect the experts to make life safe and easy; Ghanaians don't expect (in comparison) much of anything to be safe, and are much stronger because of it. I could go on and on, but I don't really know what I'm talking about, and understand these are simply impressions from a short time period. I can't wrap up or explain a different culture on a blog, and don't mean too. Just suffice it to say I was really impressed by Ghana, its people, and the unique challenges I found there.
The picture above is from our first off-site clinic in old Teshie, a suburb of Accra. It was a rowdy bunch, and kind of a rough start to the mission. Many of us were overwhelmed with the level of need in the neighborhood. You can't see, but behind me there is a lean-to made out of corrugated tin and a pile of tires with kids and a mom living in it. I'll post more later

Gordon Girl Extravaganza: San Fran Edition

2008-07-08T08:42:00.001-07:00

Okay, I am destined to be a month (or more!) behind. Here are some shots of the trip that Katie and Sarah and I took to San Francisco at the end of June.

We had such a good time! All of our earlier Gordon Girl Extravaganzas involved seedy motels in Gatlinburg and "fun" things like driving across NC and back in a weekend. This one was definitely an upgrade!

We stayed right downtown, had lovely shopping times and just meandered all over the city. The Mission District was one of my favorite areas (note the tasty fig ice cream from an indian market) and walked from there over to Haight-Asbury (learning how to pronounce it on the way), stopping off at the top of one of the highest hills in the city where we could see all the way across to the bay and the bridge.

We rented a car (all they had was a mini Cooper- darn!) and drove through the Napa Valley one day and then biked to the Golden Gate bridge the next. We fit as much as we could in 4 days and had such a good time. I guess to get any better than this, we'll have to go to Paris for our next trip!

Back from Ghana

2008-07-08T08:34:00.000-07:00

Five Years

2008-06-28T08:57:00.000-07:00

Today is my fifth anniversary to the prime specimen of husbands. Bryce is a blessing beyond blessings... and the pickle of my eye. I have only learned more to love since I married him- his character and his capacity to love just runs so deep.

How better to celebrate one's fifth anniversary than with a surprise party 2 weeks early? That's what Bryce thought, too, since he is in Ghana now. I was not the most compliant surprisee, my sister was charged with keeping me busy on Friday afternoon (for six hours! tall order!) and I really just wanted to go home. She kept me out forever at Target and THEN acted like she wanted to deep talk... it was difficult to tear myself away, but I did... then when I walked in my house and saw all my favorite people, I really couldn't have been more surprised. So surprised that I couldn't even figure out WHY they were surprising me- good thing there was a banner that said "Happy Anniversary."

I really think the main reason he wanted to have a party was so he could toast me and our love in front of all the people who love us so well. He said he had a longer toast planned... which involved a song... but he waited to sing that until later. 5 or 6 people did stayed long into the night for the dance party portion- whew!

One of the best parts was the present he gave me- a back porch! He has been working on it for months. It used to just be the cement part with the overhang- FILLED with junk- now the junk is gone, he laid a brick patio and made an area beside the house with a table and chairs. We ate breakfast and dinner out there all weekend. Such a great space that we have never been able to use!

If anyone wants to keep up with this lovely man while he is in Africa, here is the blog that the team has been posting on (look carefully and you will find his ear: smi-ghana.blogspot.com.

Sons of Thunder Canoeing

2008-06-25T08:46:00.000-07:00

A couple of weekends ago, we went canoeing with the Utley Family- three of the four boys came with us, Jack, Charlie and wild Harry (George is too small for now). Tracey and Michael (parents) are so cool and have so much fun with their little football team. It was a great day, the rain cleared just in time for us to get on the river. I didn't know how much time you spend with boys looking down and investigating everything happening under your feet- interesting-shaped rocks, skipping stones, spiders, dragonflies, more spiders. I loved having an Utley boy to paddle for me all day- such luxury as I sat in the middle of the canoe! And of course, Bryce and I had to stop at Sonic on the way back- what are water sports for if not for the food you look forward to at the end. Ah tater tots and chocolate malts... mmm...

Faye + Jeff

2008-06-24T08:50:00.000-07:00

Okay, I really am trying to get caught up. Faye and Jeff's wedding in Augusta was just a wonderful day- beautiful garden ceremony in the morning (it was May- not as hot as now!) and then fascinating Greek Orthodox ceremony in the evening. I really enjoyed the liturgy of the Orthodox ceremony- everything was sung back and forth from the priest to the reader several times. Apparently Jeff is the servant of God and Faye is His handmaiden- beautiful.
Jeff had some amazing moves to share with the celebrants in lieu of the first dance- he and his best man busted out to some crazy 80's song. After that, everyone had no choice but to dance like idiots for the rest of the night- it set a precedent, for sure. Bryce was busting out moves that have not been in the public eye before- Jeff, you may have set this bird free.
Melanie and Jeremy were there- always good to get time to catch up, even if we didn't get them to play "son of a preacherman" for us.

And we stayed for the weekend at Josh and Clare's in Crawford, GA! It is always a respite to be with them. Good friends are like homegrown tomatoes that the chickens haven't eaten yet (that is their chicken house behind Clare, wee Esme is in her arms.)
Bryce is pretty much in love with Jack. You should look at Clare's blog at www.thegreengate.blogspot.com. She definitely posts more than I do... and gets much more built, planted and fed in a day than I ever will.

Boston in May

2008-06-24T08:40:00.000-07:00

We went to see Becky in Boston in May- we had so much fun! We are definitely getting our travels in before baby comes. We walked all over downtown Boston the first day (Freedom Trail, lots of tourist-y things) and I managed my backpack and front fender just fine, thank you very much.

Becky's boyfriend, Mark, is a prince of a fellow and treats her so well. It was great to be with them- they definitely showed us a good time with an extensive tour of the North Shore (most fun if you say it in a Boston accent... which Bryce simply cannot do), complete with lobster and memorials of dead fishermen.

The last day (memorial day) we went to a lake house in Maine where the northerners thought it too cold to swim- but we (of course) begged to differ.

Cutest Niece

2008-06-23T07:37:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I am definitely a month or more behind, but I know all you want is pictures, so I will give them to you! Here is our niece, Sofia and she is a cutie! She is wearing the onesie I made her. We were there when she was born and it is so crazy how much she changes! Below is the quilt I made her, too. It has a verse embroidered around the edge, English on one side and Spanish on the other (for her bi-lingual family, Chara and Alejandro). "How great is the love the Father has lavished on us that we should be called children of God." We love our Venezualan family flair.

Dr. Duncan

2008-05-15T07:31:00.000-07:00

Here is Duncan's graduation from early May (that's why my belly is so small). It is good to have smart people in the family, so Bryce and I can just be the charm and the wit (guess which of us is which).

I'm that girl...

2008-05-13T08:02:00.000-07:00

...meaning, I am now that girl who talks about my pregnancy in weeks instead of months as if everyone knows what that means and I am that girl who thinks EVERYONE wants to see my ultrasound pics. Well, I couldn't get this one to load in the last post, and I love the way eichelbaby has his/her little hands clasped together (bottom right corner), like he is a little anxious about something.

And yes, the lumpy look of the face freaks me out, too- but that's just how these 3-D ones look sometimes, so don't worry.

While I am posting again, I will tell you about the first time I felt the little bean in there: I was reading on a Tuesday morning ... I think it was Luke 8. Anyway, this man, Jarius's daughter had just died and he came to ask Jesus to heal her. Jesus went to his house, took the little girl's hand and said "Child, get up!" and I felt squirming little elbows in my belly! Isn't that crazy? Jesus and Eichelbaby are already friends.

Back in Business

2008-05-13T06:11:00.000-07:00

Yes, it has been almost a full year since I last posted. Yes, things have happened since I last posted- even some photogenic things. But let's not focus on the past, shall we? I am using this blog today to post about the most blogged subject (besides politics or britney spears) on the world wide web... our baby. Technically, our baby is still a fetus, but this cutie is ready for a debut!

We had our 20 week (which means 5 month) ultrasound yesterday, and let me tell you- there is indeed a human inside me. I have proof.

It was a very squirmy baby for the camera. For some reason, it really amazed me to see so much detail- the spine, the ribs, the four chambers of the heart. One detail we did NOT see is the gender. We are hoping for a delivery room surprise (sorry, Chara!) So, only one person knows- Nancy, our ultrasound tech. Keep a lid on it, Nancy!

3-D ultrasounds can be a bit off-putting in that they make your baby look so... lumpy. This one is fun, though because we can't decide if the wee one in a boxing match or trying to get a trucker to honk on the interstate. Can't see it? The right arm is coming down the middle with a fist on top and the left fist is up next to it. To the right of the top fist you can see the nostrils of the nose and the closed eye.

I have some video, too... I will see if I can post that as well...

Just so you know, the Eichelbaby is now an Eichelbanana. There is a website (www.babycenter.com) that tells you what vegetable your baby is the size of each week. I think the banana is a bit of a let-down since 1 week ago it was an heirloom tomato- way cooler, and bigger, right? I guess they go by length now instead of heft.

In any case, get ready world for the world's first Eicheltomato, due to ripen by the end of September!

Our commonwealth

2007-07-05T14:50:00.000-07:00

Well, since we are introducing ourselves to the world wide web (why don't we call it that anymore? it just trips off the tongue), I thought we should debut the real charm in the family.

This is Kentucky. We got him in May 06. He was about this big then:

He also looks dapper in Santa garb:

He generally believes in the goodness of life and doesn't notice when stealthy cats are stalking him (Hint: look behind the flowers).

He enjoys long, long, long runs (on the beach is a bonus, but not necessary) and would rather swim beside the canoe than sit in it. He steals vegetables away from the kitchen floor (oops!) and away to his special spot in the bedroom where he can ponder the carrot or green bean for a good long while, giving it a nibble every now and then, but leaving it for us to find.

We think he is such a great dog because his older brother Toccoa (who died last spring) tells him what to do and how great it is to have a family (both were rescues).

Kentucky also would like a friend. Another dog. Tell Bryce you agree with me (because I know Kentucky does, he just can't speak English to say it).

Summer Abundance

2007-07-05T14:30:00.000-07:00

Nobody has told our garden about the drought, apparently. Bryce has put a ton of work into it and it really shows. Last year we had a few measly plants that I plopped into the ground pretty late... I was shoveling with a big cast on my foot, so I'll use that as my excuse. Well, the Bryce has gone wild over this 4'x15' plot by our house. It's in the front yard because our back yard is shady shady and full of glass (don't ask). He has tilled manure from my grandmother's farm, starting back in March. We planted our vegetables in May (just after that awful frost!) and they have gone crazy!

Last year, pests got fifty percent of what I planted (you could see little toothmarks in the strawberries). It is so true that healthy plants are the best pest-deterrent. This year, you could see that something was eating the leaves of the peppers just after we got them in the ground. Once the plants settled into the good soil, though- forget about it! They just shot up. We used some organic fertilizer in the first month or so, but haven't done much of anything lately. We haven't even had to weed, because of the cloth we put down between the plants (what is that stuff called?)

Last week, Bryce picked about 15 pounds of veggies out of our little garden (mostly cucumbers and green beans and squash) and you can see 20 or 30 tomatoes that will be ripe soon. We are going to turn into vegetables ourselves! (I will be a tomato- Bryce is clearly a watermelon). Have I introduced you to the guardian of our little vegetable wonderland?

I think he has a little something to do with the lack of rodents, too. Here he is hanging out on the prolific cucumber vine, enjoying some shade. So- if you live in the neighborhood- come on over and pick some for yourself (and say hi to the snake)!

Bryce hearts bikes

2007-06-21T15:00:00.000-07:00

So, here is an essay that Bryce wrote for a contest.... the prize (as you can see) is a Seven bike. Not that I know what that is, but Bryce is so sincere and earnest about it, I know I would give it to him.

"Very few cyclists deserve a custom made Seven road bike. The fact is, most riders who spend the money on a high quality bike fail to put enough miles on the bike to make their investment worth the expense. It is a travesty and a shame that countless beautiful custom made bicycles sit in storage around the world. A bicycle is meant to be a dynamic work of art, and the rider is meant to be “bello in sella,” or “beautiful in the saddle,” as the Italians say. But the work of art is incomplete if the rider refuses to pour energy into the bike.

My introduction to the world of road cycling arose out of just such an example of a rider’s inattention to his bike. While helping a friend clean out a his garage, I stumbled upon a vintage 1984 Cilo 12 speed. The bike is a simple red steel frame complete with downtube shifters. An example of pure minimalist beauty that had been left to rust in a garage. At 22 lbs, the bike was light enough, but I was sheepish when I set out with it on group rides. Compared to the bikes surrounding me, my mount looked ancient. But a wise and accomplished ex-racer gave me sage advice, and when I complained that my performance would never measure up to the more technologically gifted riders around me, he replied, “That’s not the bike’s fault… its yours.” The truth of this statement became clear to me one day on a 40 mile hill work out. A rider was with us who for a year had owned a full carbon piece of art that seemed to weigh as much as my helmet. But in a year he had not put 50 miles on that bike, and we were forced to drop him at mile 20. I vowed never to make the same mistake, and decided I was not allowed to spend any more money on a bike until I did not suck. I have put 600 miles on my vintage bike over the past 5 months. I have worn my butt out on epic hill rides and heart busting speed work. I have fought to remain in draft with much better cyclists than I. I have pushed my Cilo to the limit, and now it is time for the next step. I need a bike that fits my geometry and that is geared to the geography I ride. I deserve a custom made Seven road bike precisely because I have learned not to need the latest technology. I have learned to depend on my own heart, lungs and legs before putting my faith in technology. I have proved that I will ride, that I will pour myself into the bike and thus complete the art which the bike was meant to serve. I will be bello in sella, and a Seven road bike in my hands will be ridden for the rest of its life and to the best of my ability. I deserve a Seven road bike because I ride from the heart!"