It's beginning to look a lot like....

...a belly...a baby....a baby belly.  No, I didn't swallow a whole turkey.  I'm also not prepping for a part-time job I took as Santa Claus.  My belly is growing, and inside, is a baby or what is has slowly begun to resemble a baby (I think its ears have moved up to the right places now, it has no tail, and its head is not the same size as/bigger than its body!).  This week, I am informed, it is the size of a navel orange- not a genetically modified huge one like I ate earlier this week, but a normal one.  After/If you become pregnant, you will never look at fruits and vegetables the same again!

Where to begin...let's document this journey!

Earlier this year, Sam and I decided it was getting about that time for us to expand the family.  We love cuddling with our cats and all, but they just don't look that cute in booties (they also don't enjoy wearing them).  One more trip across the ocean was in store before we embarked on our new adventure.  So, we scheduled a trip to Ireland for August, and I began charting my cycle in July.  For those of you familiar with it, I won't bore you with the details, and for those of you who don't know about it, I won't embarrass you with too much detail.  To say it simply, I started tracking my ovulation.  Coincidentally, my ovulation for August was delayed a week... until the day we returned from Ireland.  I guess the body really does have a difficult time adjusting to different time zones...  To skip ahead, and let you put two and two together, we found out we were pregnant on August 19th, the Monday before my fall classes started.  We were a little  awestruck as we had not anticipated it all to progress so quickly.  As I rushed to Sam in disbelief with the first test, I stubbed my toe on his shoe and bent my pinky toenail backwards.   It is to this day still bruised, but almost grown out.  I guess it was my way of pinching myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming.  I took two pregnancy tests, one right after another, because we were so dumbfounded and wanted confirmation.  They are a little faded, but both gave us the same results:  positively preggers!



There it was.  Sam went off to work, and I spent the day before classes started with my three nieces who were visiting.  Going to see The Smurfs 2 was just the reality escape I needed.  As my classes are only on Tuesday and Thursday, and my Wednesday/Friday clinic placement wasn't to begin yet, I had agreed to go to Dollywood with my brother and three nieces that Wednesday.  Dollywood + Pregnant seemed like a very bad idea.  I couldn't ride the rides, and I had never been one to be afraid of roller coasters, so what was my excuse going to be?  I texted my brother, who was conveniently staying with my parents/neighbors, to come over that morning.  I had no choice but to unload the news on him, and he looked like he wanted to go back to bed and pretend he hadn't heard what I had just said.  It is hard to accept your little sister growing up!  Once the news sunk in, it was decided I would still go to Dollywood, but I would just hang back with the youngest girl who couldn't ride the bigger rides.  So, our baby has already been to Dollywood, rode a merry-go-round, and a Ferris wheel. Hmmm...Dolly...that's a good name if it is a girl.

With that week being such a busy week, we decided to wait to tell our family.  Labor day, we decided would be the perfect/ironic/Summers' style day to depart with the news.  Even more than the day, we needed a clever delivery.  It was all perfect.  My parents were going to join Sam and I at his parents for dinner. However, my dad got sick, so my parents couldn't make it.  Needless to say, the show must go on!  At the end of the blessing that Sam's dad always says before each meal, Sam chimed in:  "and thank you for the new addition to the family."  It took a minute for the additional thanks to sink in, and  I have never seen two people turn white in disbelief so quickly. Surprise!

Later that evening, we went to my parents, and I told them that I hadn't wanted to go on my brother's 40th birthday class V rafting trip so badly (not true) that I got pregnant.  They were also surprised, but I don't think nearly as surprised as Sam's parents.  We then called my other two brothers and dispersed the news.


And so began the first trimester, and here I am at five weeks...the starting point of the belly photodocumentary.  I will speak to the rest of the first trimester when enough time has passed to reflect on it fondly :)

At the end of the rainbow...

Top o' tha mornin' to ye!  Well, I guess everyone knows by now that we've found the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.  Rainbow being Ireland and pot of gold being a baby!  Nevertheless, we wanted to pop up a few pictures because now, it's just babies and memories.  Or as I like to say, "babies and rabies."  So sit back, and enjoy a virtual tour of Ireland, Summers' summer style!Our first stop, Kilkenny! A bridge but a nice bridge.  

Kellie and her bro Mark in front of Kilkenny Castle.

Breathtaking views of Kilkenny from the top of an ancient tower.  Apparently there had been a tower there since about 400 AD.  Is it safe to be up here?

Kilkenny at night!

The Rock of Cashel.

St. Patrick's cross.  The real deal.  No snakes were found anywhere.

One of the most fascinating things about Ireland were all the ancient ruins all over the countryside.  Ancient churches, ancient castles, ancient fences, very medieval.

No trip to Ireland would be complete without a trip to Blarney Castle!

Kellie smoochin' the Blarney Stone, swappin' spit with who knows how many people.

Sam and Mark outside the Jameson Whiskey distillery. 

The ol' watermill at Jameson.  This was a pretty cool stop because it was so old, and they served Jameson with Ginger Ale.

Backpackin' up the slopes in Cobh.

Where, of course, we travel in style and stay where ol' Rick Steves never let us down.

Here we had our first taste of bloodpudding.  (That dark brown circle).  It was incredibly delicious.  Like livermush. 

Some scenic shots from the Ring of Kerry.

We stayed in Portmagee, right on the ocean.  Anyone want to take a dip in the ocean?  Sam did, and thought it was freezing. 

our bungalo in Portmagee.

We did a hike to some cliffs.

What does this picture look like?  It's Ireland's version of Grandfather Mountain.  If you look correctly, you'll see a face on the right end and a hand on a beer belly a little lower.  Those Irish.  So funny.

now this was really awesome.  One of the oldest churches in Ireland.  It was really amazing to see how these rocks fit together and imagine what it was like to live during this time period.

Oh where to begin with this picture.  We arrived in Dingle to an incredibly gracious host John at our B&B.  He was so affable we didn't want to leave. 

We did hike up the Cliffs of Moher.  Breathtaking views and a fairly precarious hike back down, right along the edge of the cliffs!

Some Irish Coffee at an old tavern.

Blimey!  Caught a sheep!

Some traditional Irish music.

Top of the Guiness tower in Dublin.  Cheers!

The Temple Bar area in Dublin.  It was pretty exciting.  Live music, street performers, tons of people.  Great place.

Sittin' like royal leprechauns.

'Nuff said.

We had a terrific time in Ireland.  Beautiful country. 

Popsicles and Putterin'

This summer sure isn't like the past ones the Summers have known.  School work and clinical hours are keeping me on my toes, but we try to make sure that our weeks are sprinkled with fun, a priority in our household.  Back at the end of May, I took a class that was sandwiched into two weeks.  It was 5 hours a day every week day for two weeks.  On top of that, two hours of commuting every day, homework, and an online Biology class I am also taking, we were knee deep in strawberries.  That is about all I could do for two weeks: school and pick strawberries.  We got about a gallon every day for two weeks.  It was insane and forced us to be creative in the culinary department. We had strawberry goat cheese sandwiches, strawberry bread, strawberry and peanut butter sandwiches, smoothies, strawberries on chocolate pound cakes, pancakes with strawberry, strawberry cobbler, strawberries on biscuits...and the list goes on.  I am beginning to feel like Bubba and his shrimp.  Anyways, I digress.  I took that class, plus I am currently still taking an online Biology class, and I began my clinic placement.  I am working with two preschool age youngsters this summer and performing some diagnostics two days a week. The experience is eye-opening. It is exciting to get to put a years worth of theory and learnin' into practice!

(This is what it looks like when I do schoolwork and the wheels are turnin'.  Wheezy is my Biology muse!)

Other noteworthy events:

-Mother's Day:
We  had grilled chicken with spinach pesto, gouda mac and cheese, kale salad, and blackberry cobbler with homemade ice cream.  It was a little chilly for yard games, but everyone was feelin' fine.

-Savannah with my mom and brother, Mark.  We stayed on Tybee Island and enjoyed beach time, fried seafood, and trips into downtown Savannah!  It was a very relaxing trip!

-End of School!  Summertime!  Sam submitted his National Board Certification portfolio and took his test!  We should hear back sometime in November. He worked hard, and we are hopeful! Celebratory dinner: eggplant chickpea burgers, kale salad, mashed cauliflower with cheese, and triple chocolate pound cake con strawberries!






-Father's Day:


















We again grilled out.  This time we had  pork chops, grilled veggies, hash brown casserole, yeast roles, and banana pudding cheesecake.  This time we got to enjoy the weather, eat outside, play yard games and watch the chickens!  Dinner and a show and the Summers'.



-Our 4th Anniversary:  That's right, four big ones!  We didn't do anything too big, for we are always celebrating!  We ate at Biscuitheads for breakfast and walked around Beaver Lake.

 

("Flower Anniversary"- Sam picked them from his mom's rose garden)

 

 

  S'mores!  Need  I say s'more?  The messier, the better!














Surprise cherry tree!  There is a cherry tree that began producing cherries this year in our back yard.  I was not super excited at first because I was already tired from the strawberries. Sam was begging me for homemade cherry turnovers, so I reluctantly did it.  I have to say, it was the best idea he has ever had!  They sure weren't pretty, but oh so delicious!

Presently, we are just relaxin' and watching the garden grow and are trying not to turn the air conditioning on yet.  We may head to up D.C. for the 4th of July.  We also have a pretty big trip planned for the end of summer.  The Summers are going European once again!  This time, to Ireland!  We have been anticipating this one for a while, and we are excited that my younger brother Mark will be joining us!  Our adventures will take us to Dublin, Kilkenny, Cork, Dingle, Galway, and back to Dublin. 

(This is Wheezy assuming the position to cozy up to the tile floor, the coolest thing in the house!)

A few notes from Farmer Sam:
Well, let's see.  I've got a few minutes here.  Just coming in from chopping down a locust tree that was blocking the cherry trees from getting enough sun.  I feel almost like George Washington, minus the wooden teeth.  I don't know about you, but the chickens like to spend the afternoon having a dirt bath.  Apparently, it's good for the pores.  Might just have to try it.  It's hilarious to watch.

Thomas Jefferson once wrote, "The greatest service which can be rendered to any country is to add an useful plan to its culture."  While I have yet to actually "add" a new plant to the world, I have been inspired by Jefferson's words to really cultivate anything I can find.  Example one: the cherry trees.  Example 2: lots and lots of lady slipper wildflowers found on Kellie's parents rental property.  Example 3: lots and lots of wild blueberry bushes also found on the rental property.  Example 4: Two Angel Trumpet bushes/trees given to me by the neighbors.  Example 5: Lots of asparagus roots also give by the neighbors.  Example 6: Adding another row of strawberries.  (Because a gallon a day just won't cut it!)  Example 7: Rattlesnake orchids found on the rental property.  Example 8: Squaw root found on the rental property  Example 9: Renegade dogwood trees found on my parents property.  and I'll just say the entire garden for Example 10.  I dug up a ton of wild blueberries and ladyslippers from the woods behind the rental house Kellie's dad is fixing up.  Hope they make it.  Right now, they are struggling.  I was thrilled to see that two of the blueberry sticks I planted last year actually lived.  What's in the garden? Onions, cabbage, lettuce, beets, corn, squash, zucchini, cucumber, tomato, peas, volunteer watermelon, peppers, sunflowers, eggplant, and yes, strawberries, plus other berries (raspberries, loganberries, black currants). 

Other tidbits of info from me?  Well, I'm hoping to finish carving the bear I started carving last summer.  My dad and I are going to start cleaning/fixing up his old 1930's Ford Model A.  If you haven't done so already, put these things on your summer to-do list:
1. Watch a chicken take a dirt bath.  Hilarious.
2. Read a western by Elmer Kelton (he's about the best western writer out there besides Louis Lamour, of course).
3. Drink apple cider vinegar (with the mother, not your mother) every day.  Have we already gone over the miracles of acv?  Oh, man.  It's awesome.

And here's what not to do this summer:
1. Get pooped on by a chicken.  It's happened about 3 times so far.  The wife does NOT like to wash those clothes.  Here's a picture that really captures the moment:

To really appreciate this picture, note Elphaba's booty in the air.  Then note the brown spots behind my left shoulder.  Talk about perfect timing on taking this picture.  Ok, I'll close for now.  Ready to go try one of those mint lemonade popsicles we made today.  SEE you next time!

Which Came First?

 

As with writing an essay, you should never start with your most poignant argument or point, so we will therefore not be starting this blog off with our most exciting news. 

Oh the Ides of March, and Oh my achin' bananas!  I had a birthday-- the big 2-8, and just so you know, I just got inquiry in regards to my 10 year high school reunion.  Yes, it is that time.  I am no spring chicken...  I had a good birthday...the actual day of was a little stinky seeing as how I had to sit at a conference for 8 hours AND I forgot my toothbrush for when I finished my coffee, but once that was over, commence the partyin'!  I arrived home to a lovely family birthday
(including my little brother from D.C.--nice present).  We had barbecue chicken pizza from Asheville Pizza, and for a second year running, Sam's most wonderful strawberry rhubarb pie! 

I got some much needed certificates de pampering-- a massage and facial.  Hey, a girl just needs that sometimes!  I also go a new pair of yoga pants with a homemade paper promise of a "moveable feast" around Asheville to be redeemed over spring break.  For this "moveable feast" we went to Bouchon for brunch where we had mimosas!  Then, we strolled around downtown and went to the French Broad Chocolate Factory and took a tour.  It was pretty interesting; the couple who owns it is super innovative and know their chocolate!  You get to taste some, too.  Highly recommended.

The next March wind blew in my brother, Tim, and three nieces from the north.  Although I had 2 tests and two projects due that week, I managed to squeeze in a little q-time with them which included park, ice cream, mall, dollar tree, and RUB ON TATOOS!  They are a hoot! 

With March also came MARCH MADNESS and blooming orchids.  Sam and I filled out brackets...let's just say, my bracket was victorious.  I did have to do a little bit of research, though.  All of my orchids are also blooming and are very pretty.

Right on the tail of that, we scurried down to Folly Beach, S.C., right outside of Charleston, with Sam's parents.  Luckily, Sam and I had the same spring break.  Unfortunately, there was a cold snap.

  I think it actually snowed in Asheville while we were gone.  However, it didn't feel much warmer at the beach.  Nevertheless, we did brave the chill to enjoy some walking on the beach.  We also did some shopping, ate a lot of really yummy food-- Poogan's Porch, fried oysters, CUPCAKES!  Additionally, we saw some neat sights. We went to the Hunley Museum and saw a Civil War submarine they had recovered as well as went on Gullah tour and got to see a different side of Charleston.

Once spring break was over, the race to the finish line for my semester commenced.  I now have three weeks of class left before finals.  That means that I have three projects, a research proposal, and an exam all the while trying to prepare for my five finals.  Ayecarumba!  It will all get done; I know this.  The pot of gold at the end of the rainbow is two weeks off between spring and summer sessions.  "I THINK I CAN, I THINK I CAN..."



We also went on a hike that turned out to be just what we needed.  We hiked up Stone Mountain in Dupont.  It was a beautiful, warmish day, and the trail was pretty deserted. We just let the sun hit our faces and listened to the quiet with the occasional gust of wind.  We followed this up with a visit to the new Oscar Blues Brewery in Brevard.  We took the tour; it was fun--also a neat operation.






AND FINALLY-- our most exciting news.  I will let Sam, the born again chicken farmer take it from here.  I say born again because the below picture will speak for itself...

 

POWER ANIMAL: The Rooster

  Farmer Sam's bit:
That's right.  As you can see, I'm no spring chicken when it comes to chickens.  I mean, looking at this picture, not all that much has changed except for the glasses, and I'm thinkin' about bringin' those back!  Yes, I remember farming chickens when I was just a wee lad as seen here.  I believe my Mom said my first word was actually me mimicking a rooster crowing.  What can I say about chicken farmin?  It's intense.  Those four buggers we have are a mess!  Here's the rundown.  Serena is our Buff Orphington, and she rules the roost.  She's a good week older than the others and twice their size, but she doesn't know how big she is, so she just bulldozes her way around.  Blair is our Australorp.  Australorps hold the record for laying the most eggs in a year.  Guess how many???  Guess again.  364!!!!  Crazy!  She's been a bit timid, and we think she might be like our cat Weezy who gets nervous and poops in Kellie's hand when she tries to hold her.  Then there are the twins.  Plymouth Barred Rocks.  We haven't settled on names for them.  But they are sweet.  Things have been a little intense in the brooder stage.  Trying to get the temperature right.  Trying to keep Serena from literally flying the coop.  Trying to keep on of the twins from flipping over the water bowl ONTO herself, soaking her and trapping her under the bowl at the same time where she stayed for maybe 20 minutes.  I would image it's a lot like having a baby.  They just poop and eat.  A LOT!  It makes me a nervous mother hen really.  However, it's all really exciting.  Today I built a couple of perches for them to go in their coop.  It's a coop de ville, if you will.  Very fancy work from Kellie's dad.  It's modeled after one I saw on the internet selling for over a thousand dollars.  FYI, they can be made much cheaper and much better than a thousand dollars. 

Other than the chicken news, the garden is underway.  Greens, broccoli, celery, onions, beets, carrots, and peas have been planted.  Don't tell anyone, but I might have accidentally planted a row of corn, mistaking the seeds for peas.  There's a logical explanation though.  I was really excited to start planting, the seed packages look REALLY similar, and both peas and corn were covered in this red stuff so it was really hard to tell.  Could have happened to anybody.  Give me a break, I was just really excited to start planting stuff. 

 

 Blair on right and unnamed twin.

For the twins we are thinking Beezus and Ramona, Laverne and Shirley, or Mary Kate and Ashley--Thoughts?

 

Spring is here--and it couldn't have come any sooner after that cooler than usual March.  Flowers are blooming, herbs are in the ground, and the hammock is in the tree. The porches are also looking inviting after Sam and I gave them a good cleaning today.  Don't forget to get outside and soak up a little sunshine!  Boy do we have the fever!

See you later!