Our pretty little girl!

Dori,

Today you took your Aunt Mindy's advice and showed your pretty little face! The question we have for everybody is.....Who do you look like????? I think you definitely have your Mommy's nose! I think your eyes are like Daddy's. Other than that, it's a toss up! I will let you in on a secret......Mommy married Daddy to have dark complected with black hair children and Daddy only married Mommy to have tall children. No pressure, but you can't let us down! Just kidding, no matter what you look like, we will love you and think you are the cutest baby EVER!!! We are so excited to see you and are patiently waiting for you to arrive. Attached are just a few of the pictures, I had to scan them so they are not very good, however, you can click on all of them to make them bigger. We have a video, but I was not able to get it to upload. When you get older I am sure that you will enjoy watching it and seeing all of the pictures.
Remember, I love you bunches!
Mommy

It's Been Awhile!

Good Evening Dori!

It has been awhile since Daddy has written you and I apologize. I have been burning the candle at both ends for the past few weeks in hopes of spending more time closer to home once you arrive. We are fast approaching the big day .... Mommy and Daddy are soooo excited!!!!

I am also reading another book ..... "Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters". First heard of it when Bill O'Reilly mentioned it on his show. I'm not a raving O'Reilly fan, but do enjoy watching his commentary occasionally. He's a favorite with many down in our part of the world ..... sure our more liberal friends out on the West Coast could do without him, but hey they've got Rosie O'Donnell right.

Anyway, the point is that fatherhood is nothing that you can prepare for and I'm not suggesting that reading some book will ensure success. What I do know is that I want to be the best Daddy that I can be. I want to be your hero, your inspiration, and the one you look to for guidance during the most turbulent and uncertain times .... no matter how old you are. Did I also mention being the coolest and the standard from which you judge every man in your life. Those may sound like lofty expectations, but I will work hard every day to live up to them ..... to never let you down.

There will inevitably come a time when we will disagree and you may not understand Daddy's way of thinking. Just know that it can be a tough, cruel world out there and I will always do my best to love and protect you. You haven't even arrived and I have your life all planned out. You are my pride and joy .... and I want nothing but the very best for you.


Love, Daddy

Baby Shower at Mt. Nebo Methodist Church

Today Mommy had her first baby shower. Shannon Black, Donna Traywick, Aunt Mindy and Aunt Angie were all of the ones that hosted the shower. We are so blessed to have so many people that love and care for us. My only question is.......Where do you put it all?!?!?! It's a good thing that I got my new baby mobile a couple of weeks ago, or I would not have been able to put any of it in my car! All I can say is thank you so much for everyone that came and those who were not able to come but sent gifts anyway. You will never know how much Tony and I appreciate everything.

You ARE our child!!!

Ok....today there was no question that you are our child! You were being a little hiney! We had an appointment to get a 4-D ultrasound to see if we could tell if you look anything like Mommy. We only got a glimpse of what you look like. I think you have a cute ear! Other than that, we could not tell. Every time we tried to see what your face looks like, you would put one or BOTH of your arms and hands in front of your face!!!!! Daddy was very disappointed....he took the day off and planned his schedule to be home in the middle of the week just to try to see you! Oh well....we will go back in two weeks to try again. The ultrasound tech told me to drink a 20 ounce Mt. Dew!!!! She wants you to move it, move it!!! So please, be nice and show us your cute little face in two weeks!!!!!

See you in two weeks. Love,
Mommy

Daddy loves you!

Dori,

Today Daddy and I went to make you a special gift......well, ok, Daddy made you a special gift! You will find out that he is a man that can do ANYTHING!!! He always puts lots of love and thought into everything he does.

He made you your first piggy bank. We went to a ceramic place where you paint what you choose yourself. Daddy worked very hard to get everything just so for you. I think he did a great job. When we get it back, I will post the final product!

You will find out that Daddy and Mommy are very big into saving. As a matter of fact, now Daddy will not even let me use change to buy a paper because he says that I am using your piggy bank money!!! I am sure that this little bank will be full by the time you get here....will have to start putting it in your savings account....or college fund!

I love you bunches,

Mommy

It's Mother's Day!

Good Morning Baby Girl,

Today is Mother's Day. This is such a special day for me because all I can think of is becoming your Mommy. I know I say it over and over, but I can't wait for you to get here. Daddy and I have waited for you for a very long time. Most people don't have a clue how long we have waited. I don't think you will ever realize how special you are to us. We talk each day of how we want to be the best parents that we can. And yes, we get advice from some people on how we should raise you. But don't worry...we will do what we think is best and let others just sit back and freak out about what we are doing!! ha ha! If there is one thing that we will have trouble with is that you will more than likely be spoiled! But hey, what kid isn't? You can be spoiled as long as you respect others. That is very important for Daddy and Mommy... you must respect others. I am sure that you will. Your cousins Hunter, Tyler and Ryan are all rotten and they are very respectful of others. They are also very excited about you coming! They ask me each time I see them how much you weigh and how long you are! All I have to say little girl is that you better come out with your boxing gloves on because they are ready to play! Paige on the other hand doesn't want to hear that BeBe is having a baby. When you ask if BeBe is having a baby, sometimes she will say no, Paige baby!
Well little girl, I could go on and on, but I will save you! I love you and can't wait to see your little face soon!
Love,
Mommy

Mommy is soooo E-X-C-I-T-E-D

Dori,
It has been a while since either Daddy or I have written.
Trust me, we have been very busy and very excited! Last week we went to register for all of the cute, handy and nice things for you. Mommy thinks that Babies~R~Us and Target have the coolest things for you. We also registered at Wal-Mart.
Everyone is busy putting together the baby shower. It will be on June 8 at Mt. Nebo UMC. I have made the list of people and hope I have not left anyone out.....I fear that! So far my list is up to 55 people. I am sure some will not be able to make it and that isn't even the people from Pelham! WOW...didn't know that Daddy and Mommy knew so many nice people.
I have also been adding to your nursery. The one thing I am on a man hunt for is a pale, pale pink rug for in front of your crib....you have no idea how hard it is to find! I have searched and searched for one. I bought one, brought it home and it was too bright for your crib set! Sometimes I think your Mommy is obsessive compulsive about things!
I went to the doctor today for my glucose test....I passed! Everyone had told Mommy that it was horrible...I think they are wimps!! It was not bad at all. I got to hear your heart beat and that always puts a big smile on my face! Daddy usually goes with me, but today he was working very, very hard and was not able to make it.
Sleep tight little girl!
Love,
Mommy

Parenting Advice

Good Evening Dori!

Mommy has been doing all of the blogging lately so I thought it was time for me to write again. Last night we attended a "Retirement Party" for Grandma Jeannie. Retirement and Jeannie are two words that just don't seem to go together ... afterall, she rides a Harley and keeps a very active social life. She's not your average tatooed biker chick though .... she's a beautiful, caring, lady that your Mommy and I both love and adore.

So anyway back to the subject at hand .... Mommy is always telling me that I have not done enough reading to prepare for Fatherhood. I actually read alot, but must admit that my reading has been more along the lines of biographies and world/political views as opposed to parenting styles.

Not to worry .... I am soaking up parenting advice like a sponge, but prefer to consult those who have "been there done that". One of the consistent themes of the evening was that you would someday go through a rebellious phase, but that's just inconceivable .... never .... not my sweet little Daddy's girl. We were told that you would say we're old fashioned and just don't understand you. Nope .... don't believe that one either. Girls are harder to raise ..... just a walk in the park .... we're up for the challenge. The one that I would never contest is "Girls are more expensive" ..... Yep, concur wholeheartedly ..... already figured that one out and you haven't even arrived yet.

So we're recording this so that if these things ever come to pass (and all kidding aside they probably will), you can look back and know how much pride we take in trying to be the very best parents that we can be. Through the best and worst of times, we will be there to love you .... to share in your triumphs and catch you when you fall. Last but not least, we'll never let you accuse us of being old fashioned and out of touch ..... we're too cool for that .... and I'll belt out the Karaoke lyrics to prove it (whatever is popular .... our music will be oldies by then). Promise I'll try not to embarrass you in front of your friends, but no guarantees!


Love, Daddy

Build-A-Bear

Dori,

Tonight Mommy and Daddy made you a special friend. We went to Build-A-Bear to make your first teddy bear. We picked her out especially for you. After we chose her, Daddy found her outfit. She is dressed in a purple shirt and denim pants. First, the lady filled her with stuffing. Then, Mommy and Daddy both picked a heart for her. She is very special...she has two hearts! We both made a special wish for you and then swapped hearts and made a wish for each other and you. Next we put in the hearts and the nice lady sewed her up. After this, we took her over and gave her a bath and dressed her. The final part was to create her birth certificate. We left her name blank for when you are able to talk and give her the name you wish!

We want you to know how loved you already are and how excited we are to see you!

Love,
Mommy and Daddy

Almost done!

Dori,

Your room is almost complete. We have your crib ready, picture frames waiting to put your beautiful face in and other accessories, however, there are still a few other things like the dresser and other touches to make it totally complete. Mommy made your window valance and is very proud of it! Your first teddy bear is sitting on the shelf waiting for you to give her a name. And the most special part of the nusery will be the two picture frames with the two wonderful ladies in which you were named after, Nanny and Lawrencee.

Dori's Crib

Tonight Mommy and Daddy put together your crib. Daddy usually doesn't put anything together, that's always Mommy's job. This is one way Mommy knows Daddy is very excited about you coming. Your big Sister, Lilah, supervised to make sure that it is safe for you to sleep in. Mommy is very happy that the crib is finally here.....it was not supposed to be here until May. The dresser will not be here until then, but at least we know you have a place to sleep! We hope you like it and can't wait to see you in it!!!!

Love,

Mommy and Daddy

Wish Daddy Luck!

Good Morning Little Girl!

As you can see, it's 4 a.m. and Daddy is already up and going. I'm sure you are warm and cozy in Mommy's tummy. Enjoy it while it lasts because we are all early risers. However, Barkley and Lilah have a tendency to be lazy and I'm sure you will awake earlier than any of us for awhile.

I just wanted to send you a quick note to ask for your prayers. Daddy has a big presentation here at our corporate office in St. Louis and there is alot riding on it. In fact, this deal could be your entire college tuition ..... but no pressure. We Lawrences thrive under pressure and always rise to the occasion! The bigger the stage, the more sensational we perform!

So, let's go out and slay that dragon today shall we. Have a great day and remember that Daddy Loves You!


Love, Daddy

I am so loved.

Dori,

This has been a week of gifts for you! It started out with several outfits that I had ordered arriving. Then, The Brown Family from Richmond Virginia sent you an adorable pink outfit, two picture frames, and a gift certificate for Babies"R"Us and a nice card. Next, Mommy helped a couple out in one of her new construction communities and they were so thankful, they brought you an outfit. But, to top it all off, Me-Maw and Hunter went shopping today and bought you your carseat and stroller combo!!!! I think you will love it. Daddy has been "test driving" all of the strollers to make sure they are smooth when they roll. I can't wait for you to try it out. I also think it looks very comfy, you will have to let us know. Above, I have posted a picture of the stroller and carseat for everyone to see.

I love you! Sleep tight.

Mommy

Your beautiful name

Dori,
It just occurred to me that Daddy and I have not explained how we chose your beautiful name.

Your first name, Dori, is in honor of Daddy's grandmother, your great-grandmother. Her full name is Doris Ann Lawrence. She is such a sweet and loving woman. We are so excited for you to meet her! She has taken great care of Daddy and I am sure that she will love you and take wonderful care of you too! I know Daddy will have plenty of stories to share with you about her not only on this blog but for many years to come. Since I have known her, she has taken me in just as if I am her grand-daughter. I could not ask for anybody to treat me so great.

Your middle name, Alise, is in memory of Mommy's great-grandmother, your great-great-grandmother. Her full name was Bernice Alise Nix Lawrence. Don't worry, I know what you think.......Daddy and I are NOT cousins!!! We all called her Lawrencee. She was the most perfect lady I will EVER have known. She never found fault in anyone. When Mommy was a little girl, I stayed with her and she let me do anything I wanted! Each day as she fixed lunch, she would make me dough to play with. She taught me how to crochet, to sew and so much more. After lunch, we would watch General Hospital ( a popular soap opera at the time ). She would sit on the couch and I would lay my head in her lap and she would play with my hair. Each night she put me to bed, she would tell me stories of when she was a little girl, the whole time playing with my hair and my ears. I have so many special memories of her and can't wait to share them with you. She was the best thing in my life until I met Daddy. He is good, but he will not play with my hair and ears until I go to sleep! he he!

I wish the best for you and hope you realize how much you are loved.

Love,
Mommy

I love you little girl!

Dori,

It's Mommy! As you know by now, Daddy is the one that loves to write and talk too! The more you get to know him, you will find out what a wonderful man he is. He is the most loving guy I have ever known. My wish for you is to find someone that will treat you the way Daddy treats me.
We have been getting ready for you and have been busy picking out your bedding set, your crib and all of the accessories for your room. Just so you know.....I have been searching for the perfect crib and bedding set for three or four years now. I wanted everything to be the best for you, I hope that you approve. We are not going to have a theme, but the colors will be pink and brown. For now, your crib will not be here until May....can you believe that! That is the one thing that I wanted. I will keep you updated as we prepare for your arrival.
I love you,
Mommy

Fashion Diva

Happy Easter Dori!

Sorry it has been awhile since I've written. I could come up with every excuse in the book, but the truth of the matter is that I have been working and working to support your shopping habit. Imagine that, you're not even here yet and your wardrobe is already growing faster than you are ...... exponentially you might say. Actually, everything you see here is from our first shopping trip yesterday.

The title of your blog today is "Fashion Diva" and for good reason .... you will get it honest as Mommy and Daddy love clothes. Mommy has a big shoe fetish and me, I'm a shirt and blazer kinda guy. Mommy has done a great job organizing your closet, but I fear that it will soon be too small. With two girls in the house, I don't stand much of a chance. Mommy has been encroaching on my side of the closet now for years and I'm sure you will be just like her. All that being said, we have only begun to scratch the surface. Aunt Mindy has already found some very cute outfits for you and there will be much more to come as your arrival draws nearer.

Now back to my story ..... as the stack of clothes continued to get higher and higher, I looked at Mommy and said, "Awesome, how long will all of this last Dori"? Mommy then responded with "One season". Don't worry, Daddy didn't even flinch ..... really! Instead, my imagination began to spiral out of control ..... just a drop in the bucket compared to more clothes, car, college, wedding ..... wait a minute .... you won't date until you're 30 so we don't have to worry about that for a loooong time. So with that you go girl ...... buy all of the cute little clothes that your heart desires ..... I'll always see you as the little girl that you are today.

Love, Daddy

I think I did!!!!!

Hi Dori,

Tonight as I settled in for bed, I think I felt you for the first time. Everyone has told me and I have read that I may not know that it is you. They say it feels like a flutter or a little thump. Well, you surprised me and as I was lying in bed watching tv, I felt a small flutter! I thought to myself that you caught me off guard and I didn't feel it anymore. I am sure that you will let me know real soon that it is you for sure!
I love you and can't wait to see your beautiful little face!

Daddy's Little Girl

Good Morning Dori!

How is Daddy's Little Girl? In a way it sounds funny saying that, but at the same time so very natural. This is my first message to you and I want you to know that Mommy and I are so excited .... in many ways we've been waiting for this day for a long time. I already find myself filled with pride and joy .... just thinking about who you will be someday.

This fatherhood stuff is new to me so I hope that you will be patient and understanding as I learn the ropes. As you may have heard, I'm not very good with the diaper changing but practice makes perfect and I am certain that you will do your part to provide many training opportunities.

The good news is that your Mommy often tells me I'm a nut, crazy, or her favorite .... an idiot. I always take this as a compliment as those qualities are essential to being a good Daddy. We've already discovered that you like to dance and I'm sure that you are singing too .... although we can't hear that on the ultrasound. My imagination is running wild wondering what type of music you prefer. Is it Snoop Dog, Justin Timberlake, or do you like Country music? Alan Jackson or Taylor Swift perhaps? Nah, if you must listen to that dreaded Country music you're probably like Daddy ..... you are a Big & Rich (which is Rock and Roll Country) kinda girl. To Mommy's dismay (sometimes), I also sing and dance but it's all about the entertainment value .... if you can make others laugh it's all worth it. We're gonna knock em' dead with our Karaoke duet.

Well, I've rambled on long enough. There's so much that I want to say, but it's truly hard to put into words. I will continue to write my thoughts as we eagerly await your arrival. Enjoy your day and keep working on those dance moves. I love you and look forward to seeing you soon!


Love, Daddy
------------------<@

I'm too cute!!!!

I love to move and dance, you should see me. My Mommy still can't feel me, but trust me, I am all over the place. Daddy and Mommy saw me dance for the first time this week on my ultrasound. I got tired and was ready for a nap!

The nice lady at the doctor's office did a 4-D ultrasound just to see how cute I am so far! I think I am adorable, what do you think? Keep checking back to see my progress.

It's a Girl!!!!!

It's a girl! Tony and I went for an ultrasound today and found out Dori Alise Lawrence will be our first child!

I have started this blog for Dori to look back on and see how much she is loved. I hope everyone enjoys it along the way.

A little story about our life before Dori.

Tony and I met in late 1999 and married in June of 2000. At the time, Tony was in the Navy and was stationed in Virginia Beach, VA. We lived in Chesapeake. We were there for about three years. At that point, Tony got out of the Navy and went into the financial services industry and worked for a company named Clarke American. We moved to Roanoke, VA. After just under three years there, we moved back home to Alabama! We have been here in Pelham for almost two years.

When we moved back to Alabama, I got my real estate license. I work for Re/Max First Choice in Pelham. Even with a slow market, I love real estate!

We have two Jack Russell Terriers, Barkley and Lilah. They keep us busy and with Dori, it is just one more busy adventure in our lives .

We will keep everyone posted with pictures and updates as things happen.