three girls and a guy...

{4 weeks ago...}

2011-06-23T11:46:00.001-07:00

I know, i know......... its been another FOREVER.

I also know I talked little to none of my pregnancy here. It was such a joyful time for me, it really was. There were moments of anxiousness but our God carried us right through every step of the way. I know that I'll never forget the sweetness of it all.

After 5 weeks of limbo in my last trimester due to blood pressure problems, we finally met our sweet Audrey Claire at 38 weeks.

I want to share the sweet memories that Dana captured for us on Audrey's birthday.

This takes you back 4 weeks ago...

{on my heart and mind...}

2011-01-11T10:09:00.000-08:00

I think a lot of me being a horrible blogger is that when I comes down to it, I'm somewhat a very personal person. I have never looked at it that way, but a lot of times I find myself saying, does the whole world need to know these things or my feelings? I realize, though, that a lot of what we feel can be related to by those around us.

Truth is there is a lot weighing on my heart and mind... And, today I'm going to share a little bit of my heart. I'm still completely exhausted from our very sick week last week with Avery.. so this may turn into a bit of a ramble.

I've realized over the past days and weeks that I've become quite the worry wart. I don't know where this comes from it is not me and I don't want it to become me.... I mean okay, I admit, that I am a worry wart when I don't feel well and I always think the worst is wrong with me. (And for some reason I've been so bad about it this past year.) But, aside from that I feel like I have started to stress and worry over other things that I have no control over. And, I'm realizing that its causing me anxiety, and that is not needed. On top of it all, there is a situation so close to my heart that needs PRAYER. So, I beg you to pray. I have to just let any fear, anxiety or worry I have go... and realize that God has me right in the palm of his hand. That alone is so comforting.

Our pastor read this version of Phillipians 4: 6-7 a few weeks back from the message bible. I can't tell you how much I felt like he was yelling it right to me.

Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.
This is now my constant prayer.

A friend on FB shared this verse a few days back and once again I felt like it was meant just for me.

I love the Lord because He hears my prayers and answers them. Because He bends down and listens, I will pray as long as I breathe! Psalm 116:1-2

xoxo,
K

{the first one to go....}

2011-01-11T08:48:00.000-08:00

The night before Christmas Eve... babygirl wasn't quite herself. A little more quiet than normal. We had been at my mom's celebrating Christmas and I just thought it was strange she was so quiet, but chalked it up to her being tired. We got home late, the girls fell asleep in the car. But, D woke up when I put her to bed. We agreed she could come lay with me in our bed. Something we don't like to try to form a habit of... (but they are only little once, and I secretly love to feel the fall asleep on my arm.) She tossed and turned... and finally blurted out in my ear in a tiny whisper.. I think my tooth is gone. WHAT? That was my initial reaction! I had just asked her at lunch how that tooth was hanging in and she showed me that it was obviously loose but ok... so I thought.

Funny thing is we still don't know what happened to that tooth. She said she bit into a deviled egg that night and it got really loose. (I believe that she swallowed it.) She insists that she DID NOT.

{so long paci.... you were a good friend}

2011-01-11T06:05:00.000-08:00

In addition to things like walking, talking, potty training.... one of Avery's biggest milestones was giving up the paci. I admit, she didn't do it by choice, but she did it!! And she did it without much hassle! This took place back in Novemeber, by the way... yea I know a little late on the blogging.

The pappy was such a good friend ~~to her~~..uh, to us.. :)

And to hear her declare now, that pappy's are for babies.... I'm a big girl!!

{us lately.....}

2010-12-06T06:56:00.000-08:00

I don't know why I just can't keep up around here! I have no excuses, really. Everytime I log in and realize its been 3 months since my last blog - I really do try to make a promise to myself to be better. I really do.

So much has been going on! That's why I've been MIA.

Delaney is doing wonderfully in school. I couldn't be more proud of her. It literally brings tears to my eyes sometimes. She's so eager to learn and to do her very best AT ALL TIMES. Kindergarten in an amazing time. I didn't really know what to expect. Everyday she seems to grow just a little more. She's reading at the top of her class. (I admit that is a mommy brag, but I just HAD to. I can't help it.) And, just last week she ate lunch with the principal as she was one of the top five AR readers in her entire grade level.

Avery continues to be such a ball of laughter to us all. This child is just funny. Everday, the girls make us laugh! She's started dance and she LOVES it. I do know that she is an entertainer. She has started to really sing to herself and its the cutest! My favorite is "Jesus loves me this I know, to the Bible tells me so." Yes, she has her own version - as she changes words, but that's what makes it so sweet to me! Her imitation of the Barbie from Toy Story 3 is nothing short of HILARIOUS!!! I have, have, have to get it on video! Her imagination is soaring and she's loving to read, as well.. making up her own stories from the pictures of books.
She's also reached a major milestone which I will share SOON. It deserves a post of its own!

and last but not least... part of my absence can be attributed to...

B-a-b-y #3! I think almost everyone has heard this news but consider this the blog announcement. 14 weeks and just weeks away from the answer to the BIG question! Place your bets..... :-)

We are thrilled for our growing family and feel so thankful for this precious child.

I'll end for now with another photo or two from our family session with our favorite photographer! I'm withholding my very favorites... until I design our Chritmas card. I'll share them soon.

{wordless wednesday}

2010-09-01T08:23:00.000-07:00

after school love :)

{her thoughts on kindergarten}

2010-08-31T06:21:00.000-07:00

*the mornings come early
*its hard to wake up

*it is exciting
*it is fun
*i told my teacher she could call me laney-bug
*the swirly thing on the playground is my favorite
*i made a new best friend but i can't remember her name
*thank you, mommy for my note.
*i love my note
*we sat on the learning rug
*i almost know my way to my classroom

I'd say she thinks its AWESOME!!! Look at that SMILE!

She was so excited on Saturday morning to work on a practice math packet her teacher sent home. It wasn't real homework as we didn't have to turn it back in, but this child is on top of this. We've done it twice over I think. Love her.

ps. I thought this child of mine was shy and timid. Not so much! Every morning I drop her off I hear something new and usually something funny that she has done or said to someone. Most of it seems a little out of her element but I guess she's a little chatty. Thankfully, though, its nothing getting her into trouble and fingers crossed will stay that way.

She also helped a little girl in her class yesterday who was a litte shy and afraid. She told me she held her hand. This morning, Mrs. Graves told me that D took sweet care of her. Made this mommy's heart so HAPPY.

{kindergarten}

2010-08-26T06:36:00.000-07:00

Yes, the past five and a half years of my life just flashed by me.

My babygirl is a big kindergarten student. We've been excited. We've looked forward and all of a sudden it was the day.

As my sleepy head woke up this morning it was so cute, she stumbled down the hall with groggy eyes. (her mother's child). I couldn't help but smile. We made her lunch as she sat on the kitchen counter. She refused anything to eat for breakfast. (Again, her mother's child). She had the biggest smile. We quickly got her dressed. As we went through our new morning routine I thought back on all her "baby" days. I remember when this day seemed so far away. And today we live it.

We got to school a few minutes early and had to wait in the cafeteria, that was torture for her. As the bell rang, we then made our way to her ladybug classroom.

She walked along with daddy and baby sissy a little ahead of me. I smiled. I didn't cry! This is going to be such a fun adventure for her.

We made it to her classroom and tucked her things away in her cubby.

Found her seat.

We didn't linger long. A little pep talk and a kiss goodbye. This is when baby sissy lost it. She was pitiful and cried as we left D there as we walked out.

and one last glance..... my sweet girl.

Its 9:37 and baby sissy is sleeping soundly. We can't wait to pick D up today and hear all about her very first day.

{wordless wednesday:: rainbow}

2010-08-25T07:20:00.000-07:00

Remember me?????????? Anyone???? :)

Not sure if I can stay wordless on this one.... I mean can you say beautiful???

Friday evening, we endured one of our typical summer storms. I had to reschedule a session, and somehow I had to get us out for something to eat. About an hour passed and the rain stopped, so the girls and I loaded up to go straight to the grocery store and home. When I stepped out in the driveway I looked up to the most beautiful rainbow and gorgeous sunlight. It literally was breathtaking. It stopped me in my tracks. As we drove a little ways the brighter it got. A full, bright, double rainbow! We drove around a few blocks and I decided to let the girls get out and take a (few) pictures. For a split second, I thought "you should have brushed their hair.." and quickly I realized no matter what this was picture perfect. They were in awe and it turned into a sweet little memory for us. ♥ See....

It seems rainbows have been in abundance lately. With all the storms, so many rainbows. Each and every rainbow reminds me of God's promise and I don't find that its 'by chance' that I see them on the days I need to be reminded the most.

So, the next time you see a rainbow, think of Noah and the flood. Remember that God loves you, and that no matter how bad the storm, there will always come a bright new day.

That is God's promise, and God always keeps his promises.

{snapshots from today}

2010-06-11T17:13:00.000-07:00

It's just barely June and its already.....BLAZING HOT.

I dreamed for an hour and a half of a huge shade tree in my back yard. This mama finds it harder and harder to handle the heat for long periods of time.

But they sure were having fun. :)

ALERT THE PRESS...... LOOK AT THIS......
they love each other almost all the time...but they never make eye contact with the camera at the same time!

{graduate}

2010-06-09T13:17:00.000-07:00

Babygirl is a preschool graduate.

This milestone brought so many emotions that I really wasn't prepared for. I know now after looking back over the past two year why this hit me like a ton of bricks. I'm so thankful and overwhelmed at the loving and nurturing enviroment that we chose and just looked at as "school"... it was so much more than that for her, for us.

I think back to that very first day. D was three. She was and is such a smart little girl. I've everyday been amazed. She had only ever been at home with me, but I had been realizing that she would just blossom in a structured learning enviroment. I knew it would be good for her, too. It's not that she lacked interactions with other kids, but I knew that it would boost her social skills.

Just look... at this babyface!

I tagged this picture with this that day:

My baby is at school!
Despite our rough night (she was up for hours starting at 12:45) we got up bright and early for her first day of preschool. She was so ready to go. I couldn't move fast enough. When I dropped her off, she wouldn't even look back at me so I could tell her I was leaving. Miss Independent. The house is so quiet... granted we're usually still sleeping at this point. I guess I'll go buy groceries. :)

I mean does it look like she missed me? :)

That first day was different. She did just as I expected, fearless, went in and never missed a beat. I didn't cry even when she walked away without a care in the world. I was proud of her independence and her quick adjustment to change. Yes, I'd be lying if I didn't welcome a few hours of quiet time in the house a few days a week.

First Impressions was a new school two years ago and Delaney was the first student enrolled. (Her teachers shared with me last week that when they put in their resignation letters they only had 4 students enrolled. What a leap of faith!!) So, I guess you can say that she was just a little special to them as they are to her. Just as I imagined, her skills took off... she was learning, growing, and loving school so much that we kept her on a part-time schedule through the summer. This babygirl would cry when she missed school. :)

This photo is the first day of her second year and what would be her year of VPK. Her schedule changed to going to school everyday instead of three days.

Nothing ever changed. She always loved going to that school. She loved her teachers.

I can't tell you what that did for me as a mom, to know that she was so happy and content in someone elses care. It showed me that she was in an enviroment where she was growing and adjusting and that I didn't need to worry about her well being. She was comfortable. Everyday learning, exploring new things, and being shown the love of Jesus through her teachers.

May 27th was her last day. We were actually counting down to summer time. If yall really know us we were counting down to the day of no alarm clocks. The girls in this house like to sleep! That morning was just like the rest, I thought nothing of it. Got up, dresses, fed her in the car, and kissed her goodbye at the door. What I didn't expect was the emotional pick up. I had forgotten there was her cubby to clean out, I had forgotten that so many days this was her day and and day out and that we were all attached. I walked up to the playground where I saw one of her teachers fighting tears. I told her she had to stop. But, just like that the three of us were crying. We cried all the way to our next stop. We were so pitiful. But, it had all hit me in that instant.

WE are very excited for the next chapter ... KINDERGARDEN! But, this ending was a little sad. It closed a chapter that we enjoyed so much and opens another.

I'm forever grateful for First Impressions, Mrs. Tammy, Mrs. Deborah and staff and for their positive influence on Delaney's life.

Here are a few snapshots of her graduation day :)

{hello long lost blog...}

2010-05-13T10:39:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry to have been a stranger. I just don't know why I can't keep in better touch with you.

We visited the flower field yesterday. It is quickly drying up so there wasn't much left, but due to an accident here with the girls, a bat, and A's sweet little face we haven't been able to take many photos that I'd like to blow up and hang on my walls. You may notice some bruising still on her sweet face. That's a totally different post by itself!

So here are a few photos from our quick trip. It turned out nothing like I had pictured. But, when does it? :)

lately.

2010-03-11T10:23:00.000-08:00

Most of you have already figured out that we fly by the seat of our pants around here.
And sometimes I forget to stop and come check in.
I think about it all the time, really, but sometimes I'd rather just take a hot shower or go to bed.
Selfish? huh?
Sorry if I got ya'll excited over all those posts in a row! :)

I guess you've also noticed that I've fallen behind on posting my photo projects. I do plan to bring them current. Lately, my computer is being a major source of pain in my booty. So some things that should take just a few minutes take wwwwaaaaayyyy too long. Hope to fix that soon.

Here's a quick recap of what we've been doing.

Running. Trying to find love for it again. I know its out there somewhere... I'm currently trying to complete a training program to run a 5k. Last night I completed week three of seven. Something must be happening because on my first run series last night I didn't feel the urge to stop when the timer told me I was allowed to walk for 90 seconds. And later, after I completed yesterday's series and still wasn't back home, I decided to run my cool down period of 5 minutes. Baby steps, but I'm seeing progress.

Tee Ball: Baby girl started. She has her first game on Saturday. This is one of the reasons things have been so hectic. We have thrown 2 practices into our already busy schedule... so it begins right? She's loving it. Mostly because she loves to run. She's playing at 2nd base. It's so cute seeing her out there. Let's hope she gets Daddy's ball playing skills because Mama playing ball is a J.O.K.E. :)

School: I received registration dates for Kindergarten in her school newsletter. I almost wanted to cry. I am anxious but excited that come August she'll be in school full time. I'm anxious because she's my baby and she's growing. I'm excited because I know she'll love it. Her teachers were telling me the other day that she will sail right into it with no problems, that she'll be a model student. She's a little over achiever it seems. I sure was proud to hear it.

Avery: She's growing so quickly. She's starting to act like a true two year old. Her favorite words are MINE and NO...... all because she is two. She still climbs on everything using the little chairs around here. She runs around the house in circles during dinner squealing and dancing. I guess she thinks we need nightly entertainment. She's much more mischievous that what I am used to with babygirl's toddler days. She's talking up a storm and is still a little shy in public. She doesn't like to be dirty and just now she brought me a perfectly matched outfit. She changes clothes multiple times a day. She's our little diva.

There's more to share, but I have to cut it short for now. Time to prepare for dance and ball practice. It's 2 p.m. and we'll be on the run all night. Did I mention I'm tired today? Maybe I need to stop for a coffee!

xoxo

{heart crayons}

2010-02-14T11:08:00.000-08:00

My girls love to make stuff. Most of you already know that babygirl is a little artist... well just like everything else, little bit wants to be just like her. I had seen this project done last year and I wanted to do it with my girls. I'm going to focus on doing some fun at home crafts/projects with them this year... and I'll be sure to try to share them as we go.

This makes for a wonderful rainy day activity. As I mentioned here, we made these last Friday as it rained to pass the time!

I used this silicone baking sheet that were heart shapes. (I picked mine up at Target.) You could use any shape pan, I'm sure. I just found the hearts fun. ♥

Gather broken crayons. There are always broken crayons!
Peel the paper off, this took a little time for D. So, I helped. She had crayon all under her nails when she was done.

Fill the hearts and your ready to go...

Heat oven to 200 degrees.
Bake for around 20 minutes or until melted through.
I found that crayola seemed to melt faster than other crayon brands.

Once melted. Let cool and pop out your new heart crayons. :)
(excuse, my dirty oven)..

The girls loved this. So I'm ready to find another project for them....

and i love.... her dirty face and cute personality. No, she didn't try to eat the crayons.. it just doens't matter how much I wipe her face it is dirty again in a matter of seconds. So... it is what it is. :)

i love...

2010-02-13T11:05:00.000-08:00

a fresh haircut and pretty color :)
not the best photo of my hair but here you go...

six: fifty two

2010-02-12T23:55:00.000-08:00

Snowy adventure. Love this moment. More below.

I love love love.....

2010-02-12T23:30:00.000-08:00

♥ my little family.
♥ spontaneity.
♥ that we love to have fun.
♥ that on a whim I can say lets give this a shot and that B will always say... lets do it.
♥ that this was the best friday night EVER!!!!

Friday was so so so cold here in Florida. It was also rainy. The weather was crazy, and I was loving it. With snow predictions all the way down into south Georgia ... I couldn't help but have the urge to possibly just jump into the car and go try and find some. I thought about it all day. We did some fun little valentine crafts to pass some time.. (more on that later). When Brad got off of work I brought up the idea to him...he was open to doing it. So I got really excited. I decided to throw together a quick dinner so that no matter what we decided to do we were already fed.

As I cooked, we watched the weather reports on the news. We watched the doppler and I started getting a little discouraged as it looked like it wasn't going to hit as far south as they had been predicting. I changed news channels and good ole' Tim seemed pretty confident that Waycross (for those of you that are not local friends, that's only 45 minutes from our house) had a pretty good chance of flurries between 7:00 and 10:00.

Brad and I looked at each other and decided we would give it a try!
We inhaled our spaghetti, left our dishes on the table, dressed, grabbed the camera and a few blankets and we jumped in the truck.

It was 8:00 when we left, we came into Waycross at 8:45. Avery was sleeping and Babygirl had to potty. We pulled in to make a pit stop. We went into the restroom, nothing. Came out to snow flurries. Delaney was sooooooooo excited. They quickly became bigger flurries. We were all so giggly. It was clear that it was a little to wet for them to stick so we decided to drive a little further and see what happened. I was on facebook in the truck. Thank you Iphone! Were there was talk of snow sticking in Alma, which was 20 more miles. With each mile the snow was coming down harder. It was awesome! Yes, we are crazy Florida people and I'm sure everyone that passed was laughing at us. Delaney just wanted to get out. Avery just wanted to sleep.

We pulled into Alma at about 9:15. It was coming down pretty good and sticking. We found a really small used car lot with a little hill and we decided to just stop and play there.

Here are some photos! I loved hearing Delaney giggle as she ran through it. I loved Avery's looks of amazement, not really sure what to think. We never could get her to put her feet down on the ground. Poor thing was much more interested in sleeping than waking up to us crazy people yelling at her to look at the snow. ;)

The snow was sticking to the bottom of her boots, so it looked like she was walking on snow platforms...

By 10:30 there was probably an inch to an inch and a half of snow on the ground. Conditions had lightened back to flurries and honestly, we were getting a little cold. Laughing all the way to the truck we settled in and headed to get a cappacino before heading home.

All bundled up, tired, and ready to sleep.

I file this away as one of our favorite family memories to date. We had the best time together. And I can't wait to do something like this again. I challenge you all to do something fun, be spontaneous, even if it seems crazy... just do it. Leave the laundry, leave the chores, leave the dinner dishes and go make a memory. ♥

xoxo

i love.....

2010-02-11T14:41:00.000-08:00

I ♥ "chilly" Florida days....
go ahead...
i know some of you hate the cold....
there are waaaaaaaay more days of sweat than chill bumps..
I hate sweat
so.
I love it while its here. :)

i love.......

2010-02-10T14:39:00.000-08:00

I ♥ my girls..... and I love taking silly pictures with them. We have an entire collection. :)

and..

I ♥ ♥ ♥ my fisheye!!!

i love.....

2010-02-09T21:12:00.000-08:00

I ♥ everything about my girls playing together. It's honestly my favorite part of having two children. Their interactions are priceless. I never want to forget the giggles they share together. Yesterday, as I was checking emails I noticed that they were playing together on the floor. I knew at that moment to stop and capture it before they started fighting. :) I started to listen to them and I smiled. D was trying her best to teach Avery to play this card game. With all of my heart, I think that Avery was really trying to understand.

And... Yes, without caring, I'm allowing you to see my dirty floor.

xoxo

i love...... {weekend recap}

2010-02-08T22:07:00.000-08:00

Weekends are wild around here.... we are rarely home. On Sunday's I pack clothes for after church... with no idea where we will end up!

I love.... [saturday]

♥ swinging babies. and the laughter.

I love.... [sunday]

♥ D's creative little heart. These are her valentines for school. I should have photographed them better. These handmade hearts are tied to a set of bubbles. She had so much fun, even though she got tired of writing her name after about the 12th one. Nana helped her finish. Writing your name 44 times would be tiresome for any five year old.

I love .... [monday]

♥ to read... or to try to find the time to read. Let's just say I don't read as often as I would like.
♥ my Bible. I do read from it everyday. I find such encouragement there everday... and everyday we all need encouragement.

and my favorite verse today:
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. - Deuteronomy 31:6

5/52

2010-02-08T07:17:00.000-08:00

Week 5 of 52.
My girl doing her favorite thing..... riding her trike.
She's pretty good, too.
She zips around everywhere in this thing! :)
Even inside the house....

i love....

2010-02-05T22:47:00.000-08:00

I ♥ shooting weddings.
and
I ♥ my friend, Dana. I'm so thankful photography brought me such a sweet friend!

i love....

2010-02-04T18:01:00.000-08:00

♥ I love the little person she is.
Even when she is stubborn.
I love that she picked out this outfit to wear to school "because its cute"...

and... i told y'all my girls hate shoes!

i love....

2010-02-03T17:43:00.000-08:00

&hearts barefoot babies... and its a good thing because my babies don't love shoes!

i love....

2010-02-02T23:30:00.000-08:00

♥
the peacefulness of my sleeping babies.
right before i tuck them in one last time.
they don't sleep together.
yet......
but they happened to fall asleep together last night.
and i admit to snuggling with them as well.
♥

{another photo project}

2010-02-01T17:50:00.000-08:00

everything is spinning just a bit
especially the words on the computer
so i'm feeling a little off from what appears to be an inner ear issue that has worsened over the weekend
i await a doctors appointment on thursday
and hope to feel better soon.

This project is celebrating love in February--- a photo of something I love each day of the month. :)

In no particular order...

today is: fuzzy socks ♥

it fits my mood today..

{four::: fifty-two}

2010-02-01T13:33:00.000-08:00

{wordless wednesday: pucker up}

2010-01-27T07:37:00.000-08:00

{birthday week}

2010-01-26T07:37:00.000-08:00

Birthday's are a big deal around here... most of you have probably already figured that out. We don't just celebrate one day - we celebrate a week! Growing up, especially since my birthday is *so close* to Christmas each one was always extra special and not to be mixed up with Christmas. To this day- my parents still go above and beyond to not let it blend in with holiday happenings. So I decided that my girls would have their special week as well.

Last week was all for babygirl.

Cake number one... With our "Tuesday night family" at Sportspage. My mother-in-law opened the restaurant when Delaney was just starting to walk. It's just another playroom for my girls so if ever they run circles around your table while your eating, I'm sorry. Please try to ignore them.. it feels like home to them. :)

Her actual birthday was on Thursday. My phone had been ringing all day for her. It was hilarious to me because every time it did she would ask if it was "one of her people" -- and it almost always was!

She had been asking for a few weeks now to go to Chuck-e-cheese. So we thought that her birthday would be a great time. We allowed her to take one friend, Kendall. I don't have many pictures from that experience. Even with all my patience that place makes me NERVOUS! But, the girls had a wonderful time... even baby sissy! She likes to just run around and put her tokens in, she could care less about the games! We also opted not to eat there, but to hit up Pizza Hut instead.

She was counting down to her "Hello Kitty" party day. Here are a few photos from that day at the park.

D is so expressive. I love it! She had to wear her pink and blue hair.

She loaded up on arts and crafts, which is another way she expresses herself. I love that she is so creative!

...and last but not least we wrap up a party at Granny's house. It's not a birthday until you've had your cake of choice baked by Granny!!

We are so blessed with such wonderful friends and family. You all mean so much to us. It is my prayer that as Delaney grows that she realizes how blessed her childhood is and that she is surrounded with people that love her.

{three::: fifty-two}

2010-01-25T07:22:00.001-08:00

{five}

2010-01-21T08:09:00.000-08:00

Today she is five.

Five years ago she arrived at 4:29 a.m. Her 6lb 12oz curled up little body fit perfectly into our arms. Our world for a split second, just stopped turning. She was perfect and beautiful. She was an answer to prayer. She is loved.

Her smile makes me smile.

Everyday of her life, she is a blessing.

She's smart and so full of life. She's stubborn, too. She amazes me every single day.

Today she loves:
♥ Barbie dolls
♥ Arts and crafts
♥ dancing
♥ to hear her baby sister laugh
♥ to help others
♥ iCarly
♥ riding her bike
♥ ice cream
♥ to play splaster
♥ school
♥ fuzzy socks
♥ to swing
♥ ice cream!
♥ music
♥ taylor swift kenny chesney miley cyrus
♥ hello kitty
♥ skirts
♥ to cuddle at bedtime

So proud to be 5.

This number five has been hard for me to grasp. Its so full of emotion. But, today I haven't cried. Yesterday... I did.

Babygirl-
You are our heart. You are such an amazing little girl and we love to watch you grow. Your independent and a girl who knows what she wants. That makes it hard on your parents sometimes - that strong will of yours. Your sweet and tender heart shows love. Your laugh fills our home with happiness. Everyday we are thankful.

xoxo,
Mama

{wordless wednesday: one day away}

2010-01-20T09:54:00.001-08:00

a new year: a time for refreshment

2010-01-19T06:40:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure what it is about a new year that brings such a refreshing feeling. I guess its the year end that closes a chapter of life and opens a new one. We feel like we can start fresh, turn a new page... It seems to me that everyone is so rushed to leave the low points behind. Trust me, I can relate to that... but we are put in those low points to learn and to grow.

That's just want 2009 was to me. A year of learning and growing, along with much sadness and burden. It was also a year of happiness and being blessed, even through the difficult times.

Brad and I always chuckle at 'new years resolutions' -- we just don't do them. But, I do like to set some goals. I'm going to share a few of mine personally..

It is my desire in this new year:
to share more of my heart.
to not worry about what others think.
to love despite being hurt.
to forgive easily.
to be an encouragement.
to be a refreshment to others.
that Jesus be seen through me.
to let go of things beyond my control and know that HE is in control.
to lay my burdens down.
to worry less and lean on Him.
to pray without ceasing.
to be bold.

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18

{two::: fifty two}

2010-01-18T07:30:00.000-08:00

Sweet and Sassy.

really sweet...
really sassy...

and her most recent word of choice is "no"... i'm in some kind of trouble... its a good thing she is cute!

{our little rockstar}

2010-01-14T08:15:00.000-08:00

My girls love music... they love to dance and they love to sing. They are always yelling 'turn it up'...

This little love of ours brings so much laughter into our home. I'm told by my mother-in-law that she gets her personality from her daddy, that he was a clown. So you can guess her most recent nickname!

She just loves to put on a show and she loves to make people laugh. We love her laughs, too. Delaney asks all the for me to tickle Avery so she can hear her laugh, which in turn makes D laugh. I love it! She says Avery is the silliest girl she knows.

I mean just look. She's giving us a concert....

in her pajama's...because that's how she rocks!

Can you hear her?

{one:::fifty two}

2010-01-13T06:50:00.000-08:00

I have decided this year to give project 52 another shot this year. I tried once before, with 52 weeks - my kids and me, but I failed that project. Last year, I tried 365 of my girls...and failed again. So, this year I'm not setting any limits... everything is fair game... my girls, my husband, self portraits or just a photo I'd like to share. I feel that without setting 'rules'... I can be successful... and I know I can handle one photo a week. :)

This is actually last week's shot. I will post 2/52 by Sunday. Up until this morning I was unsure where I wanted to post this series.

She's so close to her fifth birthday. I don't like the idea. I'm having a harder time with five than with one! She's the most beautiful little person.

She told me this morning on the way to school... "Mama, I don't want to ever grow up... but I keep growing overnight." To which I replied "Mama doesn't want you to grow up either!"

Do you think she's been hearing lots of comment on her latest growth spurt?

{wordless wednesday}

2010-01-06T19:32:00.000-08:00

from Christmas - and I *heart* it!

{sweet baby girl: rileigh faith}

2010-01-03T06:54:00.000-08:00

don't fall over ya'll
its me again..
yes, really
two posts in two days
i'm not making promises, but i'm trying.

Our sweet friends welcomed their long awaited baby girl, on my birthday, how special is that?! Bubba and Michelle are long time friends of ours. They are the type of friends that are always there. I think we all know how busy life is, but I'm thankful that no matter how long between visits, phone calls and good times... we can always pick up right where we left off. We have shared so many fun memories with the two of them and we are so happy that this little princess is here to join us!

Isn't she the sweetest?! Some of you know that the road to his point was a long one, very long. Many, many prayers were answered in this sweet little miracle. What an awesome God we have!

Here are a few photos I snapped on our visit last week.

{28}

2010-01-02T19:48:00.000-08:00

my birthday was...

...good morning sunshine.
...a lazy day with my girls.
...a package in the mail.
...yummy cakes - more than one of them!
...beautiful flowers
...sweet cards
...a long, hot, shower - all alone!
...lots of facebook messages, phone calls and texts
...a day full of feeling loved
...an almost sick day

excuse, the cookies :)

{disaster relief?}

2009-12-29T08:09:00.000-08:00

I need it!!
My house is seriously trashed.
For three days I've looked around and...
I still haven't really figured out where to start!

If I wasn't embarrassed - I'd take a picture!

We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas holiday season with the ones you love!

{wordless wednesday: santa}

2009-12-16T16:21:00.000-08:00

{wordless wednesday}

2009-12-09T11:35:00.000-08:00

First ... I have a few words... yes, Thanksgiving has come and gone and I've meant a hundred times to come and update from my very thankful heart. I feel so incredibly blessed at where I am in my life. I plan to post my thanksgiving post at the end of the year when I reflect on where we've been and where we are...

for now... my little loves... captured by my friend, Dana!

{frustration}

2009-11-24T20:13:00.001-08:00

I don't typically do this... I don't vent alot to anyone other than God, my husband, my mom, my sisters, my best friend, and my sister-in-law. Bless their sweet hearts for always listening. But tonight - I'm frustrated, hurt, and a little angry. And since this is my blog- I'm going to vent. I realize that none of it will probably make much sense because I'm not going to "air" the situation...unless you are one of the people listed above because I've already used my lifelines for some support, then you have already heard my thoughts.

I just for the life of me sit here tonight and wonder why some people do what they do??? I really honestly do not get it- at all! Do they just not think? Do they not care? I've put my heart and time into something so many times to turn around and feel like its unappreciated and not valued by others. I don't like that. It stings.

I certainly don't feel like I'm in the wrong in this situation, but, maybe God is trying to teach me a lesson from this regardless of my position in it all? I don't know, yet. Maybe I've just reached a breaking point of feeling like I'm being walked on.

I do know that I need to go to bed, pray, refresh my mind set and work through this at a later time. Nothing good will become of me sharing my thoughts right now in the midst of being angry.

{wordless wednesday:: }

2009-11-11T11:19:00.000-08:00

This photo of my girls says something to me. It shows me that life is simple, sweet and fun. It spells happiness. Life is crazy and life is busy... and this photo tells me to smile, relax and simply continue to love my babies!

{i don't know how ya'll do it...}

2009-11-06T08:13:00.000-08:00

I want to be a good blogger. I think of a million things to share with whoever happens to read my blog, BUT-- I just don't know where ya'll find the time!

For crying out loud, the last blog I posted resulted in my walls being colored with red sharpie marker by baby sissy as I blogged her birthday post... I don't know if my house can handle much more of that!! Shhhh, right now she is sleeping!!

Paint suggestions?? :)

I'll be back sooner than later, hopefully!

{two years}

2009-10-22T10:16:00.000-07:00

Avery Kate,

Two years ago at 2:06 p.m. we were finally face to face with you, our 7lb 1oz baby girl. You were perfect, beautiful, bright eyed and quiet. You still are three of those four things!

Your sister says that you are the silliest girl she knows.
Yes, you really do make us laugh that much.
You two are the best of friends.
You look to her for help often.
You keep us on our toes and we love you for it.
You are non-stop from the time you wake up until the moment I kiss your sweet little face goodnight.
If you are awake and you are quiet, you are up to something...
...you climb, you hide, you disturb your sisters things.
You are our little monkey.
Your talking up a storm these days and I love hearing your sweet little voice.
You love to dress yourself and love to follow your big sister trying to do everything she does.
You still smile more than you cry and talk even if no one is listening.
You keep our house entertained at all times.
You are a little bundle of personality!
You love putting on a show, and you love to make people laugh - Grandma says you get that from your daddy! So when you are the class clown we'll let "Daddy" handle it. You are independent and know what you want - I love those qualities about you.
You may be small but you are feisty. :)
You are a pure cuddle bug.
You love to sing.
And you love to dance.
You don't like dogs, but you love Sally.
You love to take a shower.
You give the tightest and sweetest hugs.
You bring us so much joy and laughter.
I am forever grateful to God that he blessed us with you.

Love, Mama

{...}

2009-10-21T06:59:00.000-07:00

Has it really been a month since I last blogged? So busy, always running, husband on night shift... I'll be posting soon!

{wordless wednesday: ring pop}

2009-09-23T04:55:00.000-07:00

{new york!}

2009-09-15T11:01:00.000-07:00

It's about time I share with you all a little of New York.

We woke up early Thursday morning. Of course, I woke up a little earlier than B because I am the type of girl who can't shower the night before and get up, get dressed, and feel good all day long. I need that hot shower to wake up and get moving. Our flight was an early one! I quickly got dressed in my excitement. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't just a little nervous about boarding the plane. I'm also a girl who likes to know what to expect. So new experiences usually make me a little antsy. I'd also be lying if I said I didn't almost cry as I went and kissed my girls in the middle of their comfortable sleep. But, we were quickly on our way.

We arrived at the airport with plenty of time to check in and get through security checkpoints. There was a little delay at baggage check in due to some flight changes that had taken place, but after a few minutes that was all figured out as well.

We didn't have a window seat on the flight up. I was a little anxious about that.. I really wanted a window seat.. I needed to see what was going on! When we boarded I was excited to see that the window seat was still vacant. I quickly plopped down in it and prepared to have to beg to stay there. Much to my surprise ~~the guy~~ frequent flier who held the ticket to that seat could have cared less.

Our flight was great. I didn't even panic like I expected myself to. Well maybe once, when we almost had a delay on the runway because of air traffic in Atlanta, which would have meant we would miss our connection to New York. Instead we had 15 minutes to change planes and had to run through the airport to make our next flight. Have to keep things exciting right? Up above the clouds...

Our landing in New York was a little bumpy. I didn't have much to compare it to, but much rougher than the first... so I was excited to just get off and make our way into the city!!

We jumped in a cab and took off.. Just like we had planned. We had no agenda on this trip. Just to get there and go where the city took us and to enjoy every minute of it!

Just a FEW of my thoughts on NY:
*we are already planning our next visit!
*you must be ready to walk - and walk fast!
*visiting ground zero will give you a totally different feeling about 9/11...
*cab rides are more scary than flying
*you won't lack a starbucks - there is one on every corner - and there is a reason they are there... you need the coffee to keep up!
*NY style pizza is delicious!
*it is the place to shop
*the subway is confusing!
*the city never sleeps!
*there really are food vendors lined up and down the streets
*it is noisy- cab horns really do honk 24/7... ok maybe just 22/7.
*don't talk on your cell phone and try to cross the street.. you will almost be hit.
*if you walk past a "statue" on the ferry.. chances are it's a live statue.
*a picture with elmo will cost you $1.
*dancing on the big piano will make you feel like a big kid!
*the city at night is... breathtaking!
*central park is beautiful.. you need a full day just to spend there!
*times square= fun.. even if you just sit and people watch
*Chinatown is just something you have to experience. you come away with great purses, too!

Many of you had asked was there a special occasion for this trip and the answer is no. We've both always wanted to visit New York and we as mommy and daddy were much overdue for an "us" vacation. We've never gone anywhere without the girls and we rarely even leave them anywhere overnight. We had decided that the city would be the perfect destination for our get-a-way.

I can't even begin to post all the photo's I took on this trip so I created a slideshow. (It's fairly long - I'm sorry - I couldn't help myself). And this is only a portion, but it hits the highlights of our trip! May have to post more later!

We are already planning our next trip.

{remembering 9/11}

2009-09-11T07:39:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe its been eight years.

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I remember the day like yesterday. It's all so clear in my mind. I was in my car, sitting at the red light in town right infront of McDonalds. News came across the radio... I couldn't believe what I was hearing. That day forever changed the hearts of ever American.

It was so different to be in New York last week and visiting Ground Zero. Brad and I spent a lot of time there. I can't even begin to describe the feelings being there stirred up in me, the emotions.

We walked down the street and imagined what the people of New York witnessed that day. The shock, the horror, the sadness. I mean what would you do if you were walking down the street on any ordinary morning and a plane flew into the building you were possibly about to walk into? The your husband, wife, family member or friend could be in? If you got a phone call from your husband who was on a plane that was highjacked?

We were able to even talk with some New York residents, they shared stories and information. I still get chills. I heard over and over, this is not the same city it was before 9/11/01. "This changed the attitude of the city, of the people here.."

I feel like their just aren't adequate words to even describe. I'll never forget the most tragic day our nation has ever seen.

{wordless wednesday: er style}

2009-09-09T07:14:00.000-07:00

I am somewhat proud to admit that in my almost five years of parenting that last night was our first trip to the emergency room. It was no surprise to me that it was for Avery. She heads up the excitement department around here. We actually laughed that we haven't landed ourselves there with her before and for something like a piece of styrofoam up her nose to be the reason of the visit.

We tried everything to remove it on our own without making our way downtown, but we were unsuccessful. We even tried the local fire department, but they didn't have a tool small enough. Trust me I was a little freaked out as we waited 3 hours in a waiting room full of people wearing yellow masks. At 11:00 we finally were given a room, at 11:20 I finally got Avery to close her eyes and of course at 11:40 the doctor comes in. Once we finally saw a doctor the process went fast. The process was no fun! She cried and I cried! After it was removed I was a little shocked at how large a piece, she never complained once in the hours it was stuck up there! He warned us that if this was the first time she may try some trick like this again... lets hope not!

{we are home! and totally addicted to the city!!}

2009-09-08T13:20:00.000-07:00

We had such a wonderful time. I am a little tired..... it is true the city never sleeps!!

More soon!

{leavin' on a jet plane}

2009-09-02T16:15:00.000-07:00

Yes, for the first time in my 27 years I'm going to board an airplane. (A little pathetic isn't it?? but true!). B and I leave for NYC early in the morning. I am so excited that I haven't had the time to think about being anxious, but I'm sure that time will come in the morning as I'm moving through security checkpoints!

I also haven't had the time to think about being childless for a little over 3 days. I know my girls will be in wonderful hands, so I'm not nervous about that. BUT, I've only ever left them overnight less than a handful of times. So, yes this trip is overdue and I'm really excited about it. But, you mommy's know how it is... I know I'm going to miss them terribly. I only hope they miss me half as much!! :)

Please pray for our safe travels and that I don't panic when our plan hits the runway. I'm only half kidding!

Talk to you all soon!

{wordless wednesday}

2009-09-02T10:25:00.000-07:00

{quiet around here only means one thing........}

2009-09-01T10:54:00.000-07:00

The girls were playing in their playroom yesterday. It was so quiet. I decided I'd take advantage of them occupying each other and instead of peeking in and distracting them that I would go ahead and start doing the dishes. After about 10 minutes I heard the patter of their feet running through the living room.

Much to my surprise this is what I saw...

That's right...big sister decided to give sissy a makeover with markers. Most everyone knows that my children, particularly Delaney, often times create a little body art with markers. So was I really surprised? No... But you should have seen their faces. They were oh so proud at what they had done. Of course, I just had to laugh. When my house is quiet there is always something mischievous going on...

Quickly, D decided it was time to try to clean her baby sister up...

It was just another Monday! :)

{babygirl:: K-4}

2009-08-27T07:42:00.000-07:00

Monday marked the first day of babygirl's last year of pre-school. I had no anxiety of this "first day" because she's been going there for the past year. I even kept her enrolled all summer to not disrupt the routine she had been accustomed to. Don't worry, it was only three days (half days) and we still had plenty of time to do fun things. She really enjoys it anyway!

So our only adjustment this past week has been that she's a student for five (half) days! Yes, you all that know me well are laughing right now knowing that we no longer have a week day to sleep in... and what an adjustment that has been!!!

My sweet girl obviously had no fears!

She woke up bright eyed. I flipped back the covers to discover that she had colored her legs with blue marker after we put her to bed the night before. I wasn't surprised, and went to scrubbing. After washing one leg I thought.. what are you doing? Go get the camera! :)

We went to get dressed and she quickly informed me she wasn't wearing the outfit on her door, she was wearing this one.....

I pick my battles around here, and she picked a matching outfit. I love her independence anyway.. most of the time! We had a little fun, and babygirl requested this photo before we left... our infamous funny faces!

The morning was somewhat smooth. I had a proud mommy moment when she ran right in and hugged some friends she hadn't seen over the summer. The amount of students has increased at her school this year so it was quite hectic... so I didn't get any inside photos of her first day this year. She was happy to tell me all about her day at pick up time. It's so cute to hear the details she describes. She said that one little boy cried for his mama, and one little girl did too, she said that she was happy Madison was back, and she did the hokey pokey, and that she was upset because she wasn't in the other Delaney's circle at circle time... and quickly asked if we could get a Happy Meal on the way home!

This is what bedtime looked like... one tired little girl!

{wordless wednesday: morning walk}

2009-08-26T12:04:00.000-07:00

{I promise.. I'm coming back to update!}

{S & J's first dance}

2009-08-06T12:30:00.000-07:00

As some of you know... part of my recent absence involved my sister's wedding. (More to come about that later!) You must check out their first dance! Chances are you've probably already seen in on Facebook, but if not, watch now!!

(and pause my playlist!)

{wordless wednesday: the coolest baby i know}

2009-08-05T13:42:00.001-07:00

{nose. eye. ear. pretty curly hair.}

2009-07-31T08:24:00.000-07:00

I'm going to jump right back in and try to update and record things from July as it seemed like a great big blur.

So I'll start here with baby sissy and her cute little game. Somewhere back between months 18 and 19 she caught on to our game of teaching her to find and point to her cute little features. What's best about this is her cute little voice saying "nose." So I love that its her favorite and she repeats it over and over. The tricky part is now when I tell her "no no" she looks up at me with her sweetest look and points to her nose and says "nose." She's already charming her way out of trouble.

Enjoy her photo demonstration. :)

{wordless wednesday: its been a wild ride}

2009-07-30T15:47:00.001-07:00

and I'm totally cheating... These photos were taken today and its not Wednesday! But, I am back. :) I'm going to do updates and I have no idea where to begin...........

{i am here... somewhere out there!}

2009-07-23T17:43:00.000-07:00

That's about all for now. My computer is in the shop so I'll have a lot to update when I return. I may never catch up!

{wordless wednesday}

2009-07-08T08:21:00.001-07:00

Wordless sums it up. She went peacefully Monday night surrounded by her family who loved her dearly. Please keep us all in your prayers, specifically my sweet Delaney. Children are so amazing and she has already shown so much strength being only 4, but I do worry about her in the days ahead. We will be traveling this weekend for services in Virginia. I will try to update soon.

{wordless wednesday: oreo face}

2009-07-01T07:57:00.000-07:00

{its 12:15 on saturday...}

2009-06-27T09:04:00.001-07:00

there have been no cartoons on...
no fighting over toys...
I just finished eating lunch with no one standing at my feet begging for a bite...
I am drinking a glass of ice cold diet coke without anyone running off with it as their own...

My kids are still sleeping!
{yes, they are known for their sleeping habits...but this is a little crazy!}

I can't imagine how they'll sleep when they are teenagers!

{well someone decided to wake up...}

{wordless wednesday}

2009-06-24T11:45:00.000-07:00

{daddy's day}

2009-06-23T13:00:00.000-07:00

The day started like no other except that I got up a little earlier than normal to make the baked beans I was in charge of bringing to the Daddy Day lunch at my aunt's house. I let the daddy of this house sleep in every Sunday morning, not just Father's Day. (Aren't I sweet??!). I'm certain that it contributes to the fact we are always late to Sunday School, but so does my need to have a cup of coffee in the peace and quiet.

I let the girls wake their daddy up with extra sweet kisses and their card for him. We had to give him an IOU for his gift. I blurted out what we were going to get him a few weeks ago and after the ending of last week, there was no time or energy for shopping!

Who needs a Gator tag (gag!) for their truck to know that they are an awesome Daddy?!

Don't worry, I'll get him that tag regardless of the color or the team... because I'm all about making him happy.

Here are a some photos from our afternoon...

our little swimmer in the making!

God Bless my sweet Daddy.... look at all the GIRLS!

...and our loving sweet Papa Bill. Who is always the life of the party!

{update on d-bug}

2009-06-22T07:30:00.000-07:00

We are in a much better place this Monday morning. Friday was one of those moments mentioned in our message yesterday morning at church. I was in one of those places of pure exhaustion - physically, mentally, and emotionally. You know there are just times that you feel like you can't go anymore. I was out of energy, stressed out and tired. Brad leaned over and whispered, "Friday." As I ran my errands before picking Delaney up from school I realized that things were totally out of my control and that I needed God's help. I needed Him to take over. I mean I could have continued to exhaust myself or I could simply ask for his help. So with a lot of prayer from myself (and probably everyone who talked to me that day)... I gave it all to Him. I mean she had obviously made it clear that she was going to take the medicine or she wasn't. And do you know what... she has taken every dose since Friday night. Just as Bro. Lynn mentioned, there is something so encouraging about those moments of sheer desperation that you just run to God. You give him your burdens and he carries them. What an amazing feeling of comfort and peace. (Because let me tell you, as you read, it was only with His help that Delaney has now had 5 doses of that antibiotic that the pharmacy claims is already flavored.)

That is where we are as of today. If you prayed for us after my post on Friday, thank you! This afternoon we go in for a check to make sure the antibiotic is doing its job. I suspect it is as I already see a difference in the way she is acting.

{can i run and hide?}

2009-06-19T10:57:00.000-07:00

I'm having one of those mommy moments.
(Chime in here and tell me you have them, too!)

i'm blessed that my children are very rarely sick aside from the common cold or "bug" going around
so when I collapsed into bed last night I really hoped (i prayed!) that this morning would be better than our night
it wasn't
you see, Delaney has landed herself a urinary tract infection.
poor baby
so that explains her irritability, the mysterious fever last week, and the nightly accidents
(i mean i think her sheets may fall apart from washing them so much- thank goodness for plastic mattress covers)

so back to yesterday.
enough was enough. another accident. another load of laundry.
i called the dr. and I wasn't going to let them tell me that we weren't coming in.
i was 99% sure it was a uti.
we've done this once before.
thankfully, they wanted a sample.
so i throw our things together
jump in the shower
load them up and we're off

i didn't have time to find a sitter for avery
and she needs a nap
proves to be a disaster
load delaney up with fluids
and halfway there she declares she needs to "go" and bad
i talk her through it
the better thing about it this time is she's potty trained and she can 'tinkle' (as my grandmother would say) in the cup
she does her thing
we wait for the dr.
in the meantime I'm sure the office thought our room contained a bunch of caged animals.
the girls fought over who was going to sit in my lap
i must have said no no a million times to keep avery off the scales
the diagnosis is just as i thought
a uti and antibiotics for 10 days.

the problem now...
the medicine tastes bad and its not pink
it took 30 minutes last night to give her one dose
this morning even worse
after wrestling with her like a pro wrestler
she spit it back out
exhausted, we were both in tears
she just won't take it
she won't drink it mixed with ANYTHING
she doesn't care that i tell her she'll be getting shots if she doesn't just take the medicine
she doesn't seem to care that she's not out playing with the neighborhood kids right now because she won't simply just take the medicine
she's a strong willed four and a half year old
i'm all out of ideas
i'm tired
and I just want her to feel better!

and for the sake of my sanity, why can't they make grape or bubblegum flavored antibiotics?!

{wordless wednesday}

2009-06-17T06:49:00.000-07:00

{summer splash days begin...}

2009-06-12T08:17:00.000-07:00

It is only June and the Florida summer heat is kicking it up a notch. I honestly don't want to know what the middle of August is going to feel like! It's already close to miserable to be outside in the middle of the day without a water activity being involved.

That being said, I went for a run Wednesday night at 7:00 p.m. and it was still 90 degrees. Call me crazy?!?!?! I'm not even sure how to describe how I felt when I was done. Instead of chugging a water, I think I may have felt better if I would have just dumped it on my head.

Back to splash days... our park playgroup decided it was way too miserable for playground time so we headed over to the local YMCA's pool and splash pad. What a fun day we had.

I got there and quickly sent my girls on their way. Avery was frozen in her tracks for the first 10 minutes. I know that she liked it... she loves water... but I think she was just trying to figure out what she was supposed to be doing. A little help from big sister and she was well on her way.

Just look at this sweet bunch of girls!

~~They~~ We all had such a good time. I think us mom's could have lasted another few hours but the kiddo's were exhausted. We are ready for next week already! My girls liked it so much that I had to bribe Delaney out of the pool and Avery ran through the splash park in her dry clothes.

A few more of my favorite photo's of the day...

{wordless wednesday}

2009-06-10T12:18:00.000-07:00

and

{A to Z}

2009-06-09T13:29:00.000-07:00

I got this from Carrie! :)

A -Age: 27
B- Bed Size: King... I don't know how we ever survived without it.
C- Chore you hate: Since my husband folds the laundry... I pick the shower. I hate scrubbing that thing!
D- Dog's Name: No dog here... Grandma decided to keep her. We got ~~stuck with~~ have a rabbit.
E- Essential starts to your day: Coffee, Coffee, Diet Coke
F- Favorite Color: Pink and Brown
G- Gold, Silver, or Platinum: My two most cherished rings are Gold.
H- Height: 5.9
I- Instruments you play: None! Unless, a camera counts.
J- Job Title: First, I'm wife and mommy. Second, Photographer.
K- Kids: 2 girls. Delaney Grace and Avery Kate
L-Living Arrangements: With the most awesome hubby and our two gorgeous girls.
M- Moms name: Pamela (Pam)
N- Nicknames: Kare Bear, Karibeari are two that have stayed with me all my life. "Sweets or Babe" from my husband. Oh, and my Grandmother calls me "very first"...
O- Overnight stay in the hospital other then Birth: Why do I have a feeling this is going to be the longest answer of all... Croup as a toddler, recovery from an ectopic pregnancy in December of 2004 - (worst thing ever!), gallbladder removal in February of 2005 with my brand new baby at home - (second worst thing ever!)
P- Pet Peeve: When I go to throw something away, usually a handful of trash, and there is no trash bag.
Q- Quote from a movie: Do you know the human head weighs eight pounds.
R- Right or Left handed: Right
S- Siblings: Sisters, Shelly - Holly - Britt
T- Time you wake up: That depends on the day. If its a go no where day.. 9:00
U- Underwear: Always!
V- Vegetable you dislike: Greens. (I'm sorry, I just can't make myself like them).
W- Ways you run late: Having to go back in the house for something we forgot, or looking for the match to a pair of the girls shoes
X- X-rays you've had: Wrist, Nose, Dental
Y- Yummy food you make: Chicken casserole
Z- Zoo Favorite: Giraffes

Okay- your turn.. you know you want to!

{“A good snapshot stops a moment from running away.”}

2009-06-08T06:44:00.000-07:00

{wordless wednesday}

2009-06-03T12:07:00.000-07:00

{its a family fun day}

2009-06-02T12:04:00.000-07:00

Picnic style-
Every year the union holds a picnic for their employees. They have a huge lunch, desserts, cotton candy, ice cream, bounce houses, pony rides, rock walls, face painting... you name it. It's very kid oriented and its always a fun time. We always enjoy going, the kids have a blast and Daddy gets to show off his sweet girls to a lot of his friends from work. I've actually lost how many years we've gone, but I know for a fact we've been there every year since having Delaney and I think even a few years before that!

After lunch, we started with a pony ride as we do every year.

D has always loved those ponies! Much to my surprise her baby sister did not... I do believe its because she was still feeling a little under the weather, though. My baby girl is typically scared of nothing!

It wasn't long before baby sissy found something she wanted to do...

I'm really starting to realize how fast Delaney is starting to "grow up." I keep finding myself shocked at the little girl she has become. This was the first year she actually wanted something to do with the clowns and have her face painted.

I also realized that we didn't spend 99% of our day watching her ride the ponies over and over. Instead she wanted to do things like climb the rock wall, and do the bungee activities. Not something I was really expecting, but I guess sometimes we forget how fearless children are! That and her mama keeps ignoring the fact that she's growing up.

When baby sissy gets tired of waiting on her sister to finish playing...

I mean when did she become big enough to do this?

{and just because they are sweet and looking at the camera!}

{back to wordless wednesday... 5/27}

2009-05-30T05:59:00.000-07:00

I have to revisit the post below of my girls playing in the rain as it brought back some very special childhood memories of my own.

I can vividly remember days of being at my Grandmother's house when a summer rain storm would come through. Almost every time, as long as there was no lightening, she would let my sisters and I go out and play in the rain. What fun that was?! What child does not love playing in the rain? It's harmless, innocent, childhood fun!

We were outside last Tuesday when a afternoon rain started. D loves the rain and puddles! But, this was Avery's first 'play in the rain' experience. I was curious to how she would react. As D slowly made her way out into the rain, Avery stood and watched. I know that she was probably thinking that 'we're not supposed to do that.' Finally, looking back over her shoulder with every step, she took off - and oh the giggles. They had the best time in those few minutes.

I strive to be a mother who lets my children have a lot of fun. I want them to have the same fun memories I have from my childhood. If they want to play in a ditch full of water, go outside barefoot, play in the dirt - or the rain, or even eat 4 popsicle's on a hot summer afternoon... I let them. Nothing tells me they've had more fun that scrubbing their dirty feet!

{wordless wednesday}

2009-05-27T07:53:00.000-07:00

{out came the sun}

2009-05-26T10:21:00.000-07:00

I was really excited when I woke up yesterday morning and saw the SUN.

I typically always welcome the rain, unless it messes up some fun outdoor activity. But I admit after the week long rain storm and some circumstances in my life things were starting to get the best of me. I woke up on Monday morning and saw blue skies. I was thrilled. Not long after that I found out that some of the most encouraging people in my life, some of my family, were heading to the beach. I didn't wait five minutes before I started packing beach bags. I finished my coffee in the quiet and woke my crew.

The quietness and relaxation of the beach with my family is just what I needed.

My girls are just like their Mama... they LOVE the beach. Their Daddy on the other hand could do without but he loves to make his girls happy and we love him for it! Delaney loves to get a bucket full of shells and entertain herself for hours by washing them off and sorting through them. Its obvious that Avery just loves the freedom and space to run. She also loves the waves hitting her feet.

There is nothing that makes me smile more than a photo like this of my sweet babies. I can still hear them laughing.

{wordless wednesday}

2009-05-20T12:47:00.000-07:00

I know its wordless wednesday but there are just a few things I have to say:

the sweet on her pajamas should spell trouble

she got in this position alone

what you can't see is that she was soaking wet and had a sink full of water before I took these pictures

and this is why I'm exhausted at the end of the day!

{take me back to the weekend!}

2009-05-18T16:15:00.000-07:00

Right now it is 7:17 p.m.

my house is messy, very messy
my children are cranky
my husband is working
i have no idea what i'm going to eat for dinner
don't worry...the girls are fed! :)
and there are eight loads of laundry on my bed

It's one of those days that gives Monday a bad name. I just want a hot bath and bedtime.

I want to go back to the weekend full of sunshine, the fun day at the river with good friends, my fearless girl riding the tube for the very first time, the look of excitement on her face, me feeling nervous thinking her daddy better not let her fall off, my babygirl enjoying a boat ride and sitting totally still for once and muncing on an apple without a care in the world.

All of that and not the first picture, I wasn't sure I'd have the time to have the camera and control the girls on the boat so we chose to leave it in the truck. Not the next time you can bet that!

{wordless wednesday}

2009-05-13T08:27:00.000-07:00

I'm glad its Wednesday, because I don't have much to say! I'm exhausted.

{dance dance dance}

2009-05-12T12:14:00.002-07:00

It's that time of year again for my little girl to get up on a huge stage with all of her other pretty, little friends and strut her stuff. The months September to May just seems to fly by! As we were preparing last week for the recital I was blown away at how fast time just passes. I felt like the dance year had just started... and here we are.

I'm going to start with some flashbacks! I always love to compare year by year pictures when I can. My goodness.. I mean see for yourself.....

and the you have "double trouble"

Okay- back to recital day... I'm always scared of how things will unwind that day since dress rehearsals are so early in the morning. I mean what child stays happy all day after being drug out of bed at 6:30 in the morning? Well much to my surprise I didn't have to do much dragging! I guess D's excitement kicked right in and she bounced right out of her room to give Daddy kisses before we were out the door and starting the crazy day! So I followed her with sleepy eyes, stopping to get coffee of course, and off to pick up Abby and Kendall.

I mean she was so excited that she was ready and willing to let me take her picture and actually picked the cute pose herself!

Dress rehearsals went a little slow as expected but we made it. After that things got a little crazy. I won't elaborate on the details from hours 2:00-5:00 but lets just say we caught a curve ball! What's life without curve balls, right? (I just have to keep telling myself that!)

D loves recital day for a few reasons. One of them being her time at the hair salon for her curls... or crazy hair as she calls it.

For the second year in a row she fell asleep in the car. I couldn't blame her. I thought I was going to fall asleep! I was concerned about what kind of "mood" she was going to wake up with but decided it was in her best interest to have the power nap.

The show itself went well. Of course, I had a case of the proud mommy - just like all the others with children on the stage. I'm always amazed at how she comes alive up there on that big stage. She has a tendency to be on the shy and quiet side at times but not when she's dancing. Even during ballet when her 'magic hat' fell off was she phased. She picked it up, put it on, turned it around the right way (of course), and kept dancing away. She even waved to the crowd when she heard us yelling her name, and took her bow at the end of her dance. I told her how cute I thought that was and she replied to me "well, that's what your supposed to do when your done." I love the things kids say!

Here are a few from her time on stage.

Of course, lets now forget the flowers. Lets just say I didn't need flowers for Mother's Day! She has talked about the flowers since Saturday!

{happy mother's day}

2009-05-10T04:23:00.000-07:00

I hope that every mother is celebrated today in a very special way. Something as little as a huge hug from your child can make a mom feel so appreciated.

I am today, and everyday, thankful that God chose me to be a mother. Twice!

{sweet things from my girl}

2009-05-08T14:27:00.000-07:00

I've started to get little treats the past few days since Mother's Day is this weekend. D has been talking a lot this week about how Mommy's Day was coming and how her teachers at school have been talking about how you should always be sweet to your mommy. So cute... the way children talk!

Today when I picked her up she had started gathering up all her goodies... "for mommy"!

Here are a few of the sweet things she had for me.

{my best attempt at a picture of us this afternoon..she was more interested in her popsicle!}

This was probably my favorite ... because this is all her perspective of things. Obviously, she knows I love to take pictures. The pizza thing kinda made me laugh, its not my favorite meal... its hers. And it has been our routine Thursday night meal. :)

{wordless wednesday}

2009-05-06T12:24:00.001-07:00

{seven wonderful years}

2009-05-04T06:43:00.000-07:00

Today, Bradley and I, celebrate 7 years of marriage. It seems crazy to think that 7 years have passed. Time flies when your having fun. I can't begin to express with words how very thankful I am that God blessed me with such a wonderful person to share my life with. I'm not lying when I say that there isn't a day that passes- at some point in the craziness of it all- that I don't stop and whisper a thank you to God.

I love him for being my best friend.
I love him for always making me feel so loved.
I love him for wiping my tears on a bad day.
I love him for folding laundry.
I love him for loving Jesus.
I love him for being an amazing father.
I love him for always making me laugh.
I love him for supporting me no matter what.
I love a quiet dinner alone with him.
I love him for the sacrifices he makes to ensure our family has everything we need and more.
I love his laugh.
I love the way he helps people in need, as much as he can.
I love him for kissing me good night, every night.
I love that I still get butterflies when he kisses me.
I love his tender heart.
I love his dedication to everything he does.
I love him for loving me.

Of course, there is much more I love about him but those are just a few that came to mind this morning.

{new pictures}

2009-05-01T05:48:00.000-07:00

I took the girls out for their 4 yr and 18 month pictures Wednesday evening. You can check out a few of them on my photography blog.

More to share soon... for now I'm off to get ready for a mini getaway with my hubby tonight.

{wordless wednesday}

2009-04-29T11:12:00.000-07:00

{eighteen months}

2009-04-27T07:12:00.000-07:00

I can't really believe I just typed the words ... eighteen months. It doesn't seem possible, but it is!

Last week, on the 22nd, our sweet baby girl hit that milestone. I'm not sure if I want to cry because she's growing so very quickly or if I just want to laugh because this age is so fun! I have to say the freshness of a newborn is my all time favorite, but if I had to choose my next favorite age it would month 18!

Avery's never fond of the dr's office for some reason. Even the most gentle touch makes her cry but she handles shots like it was just a pinch. She weighed in a tiny 21 lbs 3oz and 31.5 inches. She's still at the very bottom 10th percentile for weight and she's average for height.

She's so smart. She amazes me everyday.
Here are a few fun things she does right now:

*she talks... more and more everyday!
*some of the words she uses on an everyday basis: mama (yes, I'm still first!), daddy, sissy, ball, baby, cup, mine, pappy (paci), banana, shoe, bye bye, doggy, hey, uh oh, jump jump, bath, night night
*she climbs, oh boy does she climb. Sometimes she falls, too.
*she loves riding in her little red car
*she loves music
*she loves to dance
*she loves to laugh at her sister
*she still gives open mouth kisses.. and if you hear her say "ahhhh" you better be ready for one
*she loves a bath
*she sleeps wonderfully!
*she has curls, oh I love her curls
*she associates things to people that aren't around.. if D is at school she'll run to D's room and yell for sissy, if daddy is at work she finds a pair of his shoes or his hat and calls for daddy
*banana's are still her favorite fruit
*sometimes she communicates to me when she needs a diaper change
*she loves pushing around her toy stroller
*she loves wearing her sissy's dress up shoes
*she loves to jump on the bed
*she thinks she's the same age as her sissy
*she can hold a crayon and try to color
*she wears 12 to 18 month clothes and a size 5 shoe
*she still wears a number 3 diaper
*she loves a big bouncy ball
*she likes to brush her teeth.. all by herself
*she is independent
*she loves to laugh
*her smile is contagious
*last week she said "i love you" ... plain. as. day.
*she's a mama's girl until daddy comes home!
*she loves playing outside
*and peek a boo
*she's quiet and mischievous when she wants to be
*she can throw a tantrum when she's mad
*she loves the rocking horse
*she knows bath comes right after dinner and will wait at the bathroom door
*she enjoys feeding herself and uses a spoon and fork
*she entertains strangers in the grocery store

I could probably go on for days...

When I thought about what photos I wanted to share for this post... it wasn't hard to decide. Last week she wanted to feed herself some chocolate pudding because her sissy was having vanilla pudding. So in my typical-- if it won't hurt you, only make a little mess-- attitude I threw that baby in the bathtub with a spoon and chocolate pudding. This describes the age 18 months to me! messy and fun!

ENJOY!

{let summer begin}

2009-04-26T12:39:00.000-07:00

I think with the temperatures this past week its safe to say that summer is here. That... and our visits from the ice cream truck. D always loves a visit from the ice cream truck. Avery is learning to love it herself. And hey- sometimes I look forward to it, too!

Here are a few pictures from Friday afternoon. I love this time of year... nothing says fun to me like ice cream, barefoot children playing outside and a baby running around in a tank top and diaper!

what quarter of the game are you in?

2009-04-24T14:06:00.000-07:00

...in the game of life.

This illustration was used at our dear friends funeral just a few short weeks ago. It's been at the front of my mind ever since and I've had the urge to share it here for days...

Most every teenager or young person would think "I'm in the pre-game", "I'm in the 1st quarter"... others may see themselves resting at "halftime". But, the honest truth is we don't know what part of the game we are playing. We will probably never know why God chose to take John at that moment, at such a young and monumental time of his life. But God has a reason for everything he does even when we don't understand.

No one would have ever imagined that at the young age of 22, at a time that it seemed his life was just getting started that John was in the 4th quarter. I know it was a shock to me but not to God. I think we often lose sight of who's in control. The truth is we aren't in control, God is. We may think we'll live forever, but we may not. I know you never want to think of those situations but its the truth. We aren't promised tomorrow and I'm so thankful to know I have a God who loves me and has my very best interest at heart with every breath he gives me.

tinkerbell

2009-04-16T07:15:00.000-07:00

It is not a big surprise that right now babygirl loves all things Tinkerbell.

Last week was crazy around here. Poor little Jackson was sick, we had family in town visiting, the week before Easter and it was spring break. It was also Disney on Ice staring Tinkerbell. I was really having a hard time because I wasn't sure I had time to fit in the show. At the same time, I knew I had to make time because if you know Delaney you know she remembers everything and months ago I promised we'd go. So on Friday I quickly rearranged some appointments (like my hair appt- mommy sacrifices!) and we headed off.

She LOVED it. Of course, Aerial being there as well was icing on the cake. She was a great age this year. She watched so closely to every move. She hasn't been that still in months!

Of course we had a few pounds of candy, cotton candy and diet coke. Avery did pretty good through the show. She watched more than I expected and of course was happy with her snacks. :)

I have a ton of pictures (its a wonder I have any pictures at all..but that is another story...) but I'll just leave you with a few from the star of the show. :)

not fond of the rabbit........

2009-04-14T10:39:00.000-07:00

After the classic picture with santa at Christmas... this reaction didn't surprise me any. Call me mean if you want but this is a memory for me. :)

{wordless wednesday}

2009-04-08T09:02:00.000-07:00

Life was busy and then life was a little sad. I hope to start updating here regularly soon. For now... enjoy this :)

4 things----

2009-02-25T12:35:00.000-08:00

~4 jobs I've had~
1. Secretary
2. Legal Assistant
3. Photographer
4. Mother... (as Jen says) the best one yet!

~4 movies watched over and over~
1. Sweet Home Alabama
2. The Notebook
3. Coyote Ugly
4. How to lose a guy in 10 days

~4 places I've lived~
1. Callahan, Fl
2. Gainesville, FL
3. Hilliard, Fl
4.

~4 shows I watch~
1. I don't watch anything regularly anymore! I'm not lying.
2. News
3. Jon Kate plus 8 - when I think i've had a bad day.. i turn them on... my day was a piece of cake!
4. Oprah or the Today show is my next pick

~4 places I've been~
1. Mexico
2. Bahamas
3. Carolina Mountain vacations
4. not the world traveler going to have to change that!!

~4 people who e-mail me regularly~
1. Lindsey
2. My mother in law
3. Toosie
4. My papa Wallace (he sends the forwards worth looking at :) )

~4 favorite things to eat~
1. Chicken Ceasar Salad
2. Chicken n dumplins
3. A good cheeseburger
4. Granny's roast beef

~4 places I'd rather be~
1. Shopping
2. The Beach
3. A girls weekend, somewhere, anywhere... let's just go!
4. in a hot bath

~4 things I look forward to this year~
1. Many wonderful moments with my family.
2. Shelly & Justin's wedding.
3. Possibly shooting a wedding or two.
4. Just being happy! (Another one I'll keep from, jen ..)

~4 people to tag~

1. Taylor
2. Audrey
3. Shelly
4. Marisa

A lot to catch up on----

2009-02-09T10:41:00.000-08:00

It's coming. Look I'm already making excuses.... now that I survived D's fourth birthday party, a trip to Disney World, found my way out from under the pile of tisses, taken the girls for check ups and shots and battled allergic reactions-- i think it is time to catch up on our life.

D's party went off wonderfully. We had a great time and she really enjoyed herself. Her friends are starting to figure out that they have to smile and pose for me. See for yourself ... :)

Aren't they all cute! Here are a few more pictures from the busy party day. :)

Thank you for everyone who came to celebrate with us. We are so blessed to have such a wonderful group of friends.

{the rest coming soon...}

the big 4-

2009-01-21T17:08:00.000-08:00

Baby Girl-

Another year has come and gone. It's so hard to believe that I am now the mother of a four year old. During this past year you have gone from toddler to little girl in what seems like a blink of the eye.

You are the most loving little girl. When you throw your little arms around my neck and tell me "I love you very much..." --- I melt. You have no idea how much your mommy and daddy love you back. To you its your arms stretched out wide, or "as big as this room"... but its far more than that.

This has been a big year for you. This is the first year you spent as a big sister. You fill the role perfectly. One of your favorite things is hearing your baby sister laugh and knowing it was because you tickled her. You are always on her side and defend her when you think she's in trouble. I pray that the two of you will always stick together. You also started pre-school this year and you love it. On your very first day you jumped right up, walked through those doors and never once looked back. That is you, baby girl, my fearless child.

Being your mother is truly a blessing. I thank God everyday for giving you to us.

My baby is almost four...

2009-01-10T23:30:00.000-08:00

How did that happen... really? I'll save everything else I have to say for her birthday :)

{5/365}