The Tompkins' Family

Happy Love Day!

2012-02-14T13:20:00.000-08:00

One Month Old ALREADY??

2012-02-10T11:28:00.000-08:00

Emma,
You are one month old already. Mommy wants you to slow down. You are such a sweet baby. You love to be held, you just gaze and melt into mommy and daddy's arms. Daddy started early and makes his funny noices at you, you LOVE it(just like big sissy). Ava loves you too! I was told by her teacher's at school that she talks about you all the time. How sweet! She calls you Baby Emma Ruth. When you start to cry she goes over and talks to you and this usually makes you stop. I hope you girls always stay sweet friends. You are one loved little girl. We thank God for you, you are such a sweet blessing to our family. How did we get this lucky?
I love you Emma!
Mommy

At 1 month old~
Weight: 8lbs 1oz
Height: 19 1/2 inches
Newborn clothes are starting to fit better
Still in newborn diapers (we may be going to size 1 soon!)
You are eating every 3 hours. Sometimes you go 4 hours at night, this makes for a happy mommy.
You love to be on your tummy. We get tickled because you have rolled over already a few times. You do this funny thing by arching your back and kicking your leg so you go right over. You don't quite love your swing as much as your sissy did. We are going to keep trying because who could not love it??

Sisters

2012-02-07T09:08:00.000-08:00

A sister is a forever friend. ~Author Unknown

When mom and dad don't understand, a sister always will. ~Author Unknown

I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all her old clothes and has to go out and buy new ones. ~Author unknown, attributed to a 4-year-old named Lauren. (This made me laugh, I hope this is how Emma feels about all her hand-me-downs!)

Everyday

2012-02-02T11:07:00.000-08:00

Everyday is what life is about.....

Emma's Birth Story

2012-01-31T18:27:00.000-08:00

This is mainly for me, I want to remember this special day. The birth of my second.
It was scheduled this time around. Scheduled on January 10th, my mom's birthday. We like to share birthdays in our family. We had to be at the hospital at 6:00 and I think I was up every 2 hours looking at the clock, at 4 I gave up and the day started. It was a rough start as they tried 10 times to get the IV in, after 3 people success finally was obtained. Dr. Reeves arrived shortly thereafter and we would be getting started shortly after 7am. The ride to the OR was much different this time around. No emergency, thank goodness. The thing I think I will always remember was how cold it was. The spinal was given as Dr. Reeves held my shivering arms. I did not like the feeling that I could not breathe but was glad it passed quickly. Jarred was finally allowed in. Boy was I happy to see him. Jarred stood during the entire procedure and saw everything. I asked him many times, "do you see her yet?" How amazing to witness the birth of your baby, Jarred was in awe. Emma Ruth Tompkins was born at 7:42am weighing in at 6 lbs 10 oz and 19 1/2 inches long.

It was different this go around as only Jarred and one other were allowed in the recovery room. They were strict about this and I was a little bummed I didn't get as many pictures as I did with Ava. As they wheeled in back in the first thing Jarred said was how pretty she was. Even the nurse made a comment. I could not wait to really get a good look at her. We were so tickled at her dark thick hair. Susie was allowed in to give Emma her first bath. This is a family tradition.

Finally we have a room. I know everyone was so anxious to meet Miss Emma Ruth. We are so lucky to have our family and friends, it was so nice they shared our day with us. I could not wait for Ava to see Emma. I called my mom and told her we were in our room and big sister could come. She ran right in and wanted to see her sister. As she sat on the bed with me, I could tell she was upset. She told me she wanted to cry. Not because of Emma but because she did not like to see mommy with an IV. She knew I had a bobo. She perked up quickly with her big sister gifts that she got. I hated when she had to leave. I felt torn because she cried to stay with mommy and daddy. Oh how I love her and hate to see her upset.

The first night there was not much sleep. How can you will all the nurses constantly coming in? Emma did great, such a sweet baby. I loved the moments I got to feed her because for 30 minutes she was all mine. We had many vistors the second day, again I was so happy to see big sissy. Ava held her sissy for the first time today and seemed to be in awe. I pray they will grow to have a true love for each other. Maybe even be best friends.

Finally Thursday came and it was time for us to go home. How blessed we are to be leaving as a family of 4. I am one happy mommy, my cup runneth over.

Settling in....

2012-01-27T17:22:00.000-08:00

I forgot how nice it was to have a snuggly baby. She is such a good baby and we are all so in love. I am enjoying every minute knowing soon she will be as big as her big sister. What a sweet blessing she is, this mommy's cup runneth over.

More to come on Emma's delivery and her first 2 weeks of life. Stay tuned!

Welcome Emma Ruth!

2012-01-10T18:57:00.000-08:00

Emma Ruth officially joined the Tompkins family today weighing in at 6 lbs 10 oz. She is absolutely beautiful and perfect! Mom and baby are both doing well. Angela will share all of the details and more pictures but here are just a few for everyone to see now.
Love,
Andee

This Baby is Your Blessing,
I wish Happiness in every way,
Good Luck God Bless, I say
And Many Blessings and Wishes,
To Welcome Baby Into Your Life Today.
-Author Unknown

Dates with Ava

2012-01-09T15:28:00.000-08:00

As the day approaches for little Miss Emma to join us we planned a few last dates with our girl.

Hitting golf balls with Daddy. This girl loves this, it may be one of her favortie things to do. He took her to the golf course and they played a little put-put. I love the pure joy on her face. Ava, my wish for you is that you will always love to play golf with your daddy and have this much JOY doing it. These pictures melt my heart.

Up next, build a bear for Emma.

It was perfect.
Pink bear, kissed heart, stuffed by Ava, then given a birth certificate.
What a precious gift for a new baby.
Ava named her Ruthie.

Last few days of an only child.

2012-01-08T11:43:00.000-08:00

Should this be sad? In a way I am sad for her. My prayer is that God would have these girls grow up to be the best of friends and they will be forever grateful to have each other.

I wanted to remember her favorite things at 2.9 years old. And of course a few photos.

One of my favorite things is how this girl prays. Each day she thanks God for Mommy and Daddy and usually Baby Emma but everyday she usually adds someone new. It melts my heart. Baby girl, always keep this up and you won't go wrong.

Favorite show: Backyardigans (Aka:The Bird)
Favorite music: Veggie tales sing-a-longs
Favorite food: Chips and dip (girl, your a dipper!)
Favorite toy: Pink gun, wheel barrow, and kitchen
Favorite outside activity: hitting golf balls with daddy
Favorite animals: Your doggie's for sure, Rozzy and Sophie
Favorite craft: dot art and paints

Mommy's favorite sayings:
Mommy, your gorgeous as I put on my makeup.
Oh, it's just beautiful.
Wow, good job.
Let's Roll. (As we leave the driveway)

“Your little hands wrapped around my finger

And it’s so quiet in the world tonight

Your little eyelids flutter ’cause you’re dreaming

So I tuck you in, turn on your favorite night light

To you, everything’s funny

You got nothing to regret

I’d give all I have, honey

If you could stay like that

. . . just never grow up.”

- Taylor Swift

Still trying to catch up.

2011-12-29T11:37:00.000-08:00

I really have to be better at keeping up with this. We had so many fun events, not nearly as many as last year due to the bed rest but I don't think Ava will remember. WARNING: Lots of pictures!

School party up first. How cute are these kiddos? Ava loves to sing so this was fun to watch her in action. And, look....still sucking her fingers.
We had Christmas with the Tompkins bunch the weekend before since they were here for graduation. Ava got the coolest suitcase for dress up clothes! Not to mention boots that look like daddy's.

Aren't these baking diva's the cutest? What fun they had!

I just had to take pictures of my favorite snowgirl!

And somewhere in here Jarred and I celebrated 6 years of marriage. I am one lucky girl who is more in love everyday! We ran out for a quick dinner and then had to come straight home because the contrations were becoming timeable and we did not want to spend the rest of the night in the hospital. Arrg.....

So many fun memories that are made in December! Makes me miss it when it's gone!

SHSU Class of 2011

2011-12-28T06:44:00.000-08:00

Proud. I am so proud. Jarred has worked so hard and this day meant so much to many of us.

We had fun trying to find him and cheer. Thanks to Aunt Ashley he heard us well. Love it!

Then it was a little party for the grad. Of course there were cute banners and a nice speech. (Speeches run in my family! ha) I just stated that I was so proud to be Jarred's wife. It really was one of my proudest days. I told Ava to top it she will have to go to medical school!

Congratulations Jarred, I really am so so proud to be your wife!

Christmas....what a JOY!

2011-12-27T17:31:00.000-08:00

Joy to the World, the Lord has come!

What a great few days we have had. I love this time of spending it with the ones you love. I feel that my life is so full and blessed. Maybe it is the hormones but I just felt teary many times about how Jesus blesses this family. It really was the perfect week and to think that we will be adding another precious blessing in 2 weeks! Yes, 2 weeks! Eek.

A few pictures, beacause really what is a post without them?
(Note: I was horrible about takng pictures this year. I am so disappointed with myself ;-) I will blame it on being tired. Yes, tired.)

Someone was ready for Santa. Daddy tired to tell her that he believed he liked coke better. Yep, I am pretty sure he does!

We loved our 25 days of Christmas. It really was a great way of teaching Ava the true meaning of Christmas. It really surprised me how much she picked up from the books. I look forward to this again next year for sure.

Wow, what a fun morning we had. It started about 5:30, HUBS was the one who could not wait. We had a few minutes of quiet together fixing breakfast which was so nice. He commented that he really liked being able to have conversation with someone at 5:30, please don't think this is normal my sweet hubby. When went in to wake the girl and the fun began. I think this is the most fun we have had in awhile. She loved her pink gun, wheel barrow and leap pad. She was hyper all day, it was a hoot to watch. Could it have been those M&M's and coke? Probably.

Then we had a nice Christmas lunch. We started a tradtion last year of having tamales. Yummy lunch. My dad tickled me, we caught him helping put lipstick on Ava. He informed me I needed to buy better because it had no color. Dad, that was the idea!

I pray you all experienced the JOY of the season. Be thankful for the greastest gift given, Jesus!

Come back as I am trying to catch up from a few other december highlights!

Merry Christmas from Our Family to Yours

2011-12-22T14:22:00.000-08:00

Less than 3 weeks to go.....

2011-12-20T17:30:00.000-08:00

and the way things are going it very well could be sooner. Here we are at the end of the pregnancy. I am still trying to wrap my mind around having two sweet little girls.

We have been busy trying to get her room ready. I will post pictures soon. It is still a work in progress. We are sure ready to meet Miss Emma. And, by her movement I would say she is just about ready as well.

Happy 8 months and 2.8 years to my girls!

Santa Visit

2011-12-08T19:06:00.000-08:00

This year we shared our visit with one of our favorite babies and then it was a nice dinner out. Our kiddos did great and Ava even gave Santa a little hug. It is nice nights like this that I will miss when my kids are grown.

I was completely dummed when they would not let me have my camera this year. I mean for 3 Santa visits and 2 bunny visits they have always let me snap a few pictures. We just may have to find a new spot next year!

Blessings for Emma

2011-12-03T20:23:00.000-08:00

I had two wonderful baby showers to welcome sweet Emma.
Up first I had a lovely Pickles and Ice Cream themed shower. Ya'll, to say the shower was cute would be an understatement. It was amazing. Jarred and Ava are still enjoying the center pieces(giant jars of pickles).

We are so very lucky to have the best friends and family. I say this often but I hope they know how I love each of them. You guys seriously rock!

The hostesses

Sweet Emma got some pretty great things. She is already spoiled, how is this possible?

Up next, my wonderful co-workers gave me a shower. I am suprised they even want to see me after I have bailed on them due to bed-rest! You guys make working more enjoyable, thanks for holding the fort down.

They had the cutest things for Emma's room. I LOVE LOVE LOVE the blocks and the picture frame. Thanks girls for making me feel special!

25 days of Christmas (Tompkins Family Style)

2011-12-01T19:08:00.000-08:00

Don't you love 25 days of Christmas on the Family channel? This year we are starting our on tradtion. It does still involve 25 days and it starts December 1st. What you may ask? Let me show you:

We picked out 25 books on the real meaning of Christmas. I want my girls to know why we really celebrate Christmas. Yes, we still do santa but I want them to always cherish the best gift of all.

I wrapped each one and the basket is by the tree. Each night Ava will get to pick one and unwrap it for our story time.

We had a great first night of story time, I look forward to the next 24 nights! Christmas really does mean so much more and being 8 months pregnant really makes one appreicate it's true meaning.

Our first book was why each of the Veggie's like Christmas. It was perfect for her first pick since she loves those veggie's so much.

Thanksgiving recap....mainly in pictues!

2011-11-29T08:05:00.000-08:00

Our family has so much to be thankful for. We had a lovely thanksgiving with the Tompkins' side. It was a great day filled with much laughter!

First up, Our little Turkey! Oh, how I am so thankful for this sweet girl!

The little turkey and the big turkey. My loves for sure!

We celebrated a special birthday too! Happy 4th birthday Nathan, my spider sense is tingling! I loved hearing him say this.....the boy sure loves him some spidey!

Thankful (Part 2)

2011-11-07T13:11:00.000-08:00

“Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.” – 1 Chronicles 16:34

#5-My Family
When you were a kiddo did you ever have those thoughts, "Why did God chose to give me my family when some kids just plain have awful ones?" I had this thought a lot growing up. I am so thankful for my parents. How they have and still do bless my life. I stand firm in saying if not for them who knows where I would be. I sure do owe them and love them more than words could ever express.

Now for the rest of my family, They are like fudge - mostly sweet with a few nuts. (half kidding! ha) I sure do love them. Growing up and even still we have a great time together. Not to mention how they have bless me and now bless my kiddos.

Then I got married and God once again has surprised me with a big blessing. What fun I have had with these guys. Not to mention that I have two special boys that I love so much. Did you really ever think you could love nieces/nephews so much?

I think one of the most important things in my life is my family. I hope each one of you knows what you mean to me. Each memory is so special...I could list many but the first that come to mind is beauty pageants, tea parties, Schlitterbahn trips, hunting/fishing, shopping trips, and many dinners are so dear to my heart. I love each of you!

No pictures....gasp!

A month to be thankful.

2011-11-03T20:15:00.000-07:00

Don't you love November? I love fall. The cooler temps that bring hot chocolate and hot tea. Pumpkins and the smell of cider. Not to mention getting to spend time with family for Thanksgiving or the 2 important birthdays we celebrate. I love it!
I have so much to be thankful for. I thought I would try to do a post once a week (not daily like some adventurous souls) on what I am thankful for the most. I will start with 4:

#1 For sure Jesus. I think I get it so much more than ever what it truly means to be saved. What a blessing to have such Grace that only he can provide. I am so thankful for all Jesus has blessed me with. Sometimes I am completely blown away.

#2 Hubs. Oh how I am one lucky girl! I mean really lucky that God made him for me to share my life with. I love Jarred more with each passing day. I love how he loves his girls. There is no one I would rather share my life with or be the daddy to my children. I am AMAZED at the father he is.

#3 My Sweet Pea. Sometimes I look at her and wonder what I did to deserve her! I mean the other day I was buckling her in her car seat and she said "Jesus, thank for for my mommy!" Really! Who taught her this? I stopped and looked at her with tears running down my face. Then I heard, "What's wrong Mommy? You sad?" No Ava, I am so extremely happy.

#4 Emma Ruth. I can't wait to meet you! I can't wait to see how special you will be and how you will bless this family. After 5 pregnanices I am thankful for you hanging out with mommy. Can you believe we are almost 30 weeks. All I can say is "You grow girl!"

The cutest Cupcake

2011-11-01T20:40:00.000-07:00

Is she the cutest or what? I mean who does not love cupcakes?

We had dinner at our besties and then headed out trick-or-treating. Yall, Ava was into this year. I mean so into it. After walking and walking we would ask if she was ready to stop. Her reply, "No, not yet." Her cupcake bag did get a little heavy but daddy was so sweet to help. She was so pooped after the end of the night she slept until 9. Score for mommy! She has enjoyed going through "My Bag" and eating all her candy today. Let's just say the sharing with daddy days may just be over. (Jarred, there is still hope for you with Emma for a few years!)

What a fun day with my family.

And it was even better when shared with friends.

(James was there somewhere)

What a busy, but oh so fun month!

2011-10-22T19:08:00.000-07:00

October has to be one of my favorite months! Could it be because it's the month of my birth? This month has went by so fast. Only 3 more days till my special day! Yippe!
Thought I would share (in pictures) some fun we have been having. And to think we still have so much more fun to come. I am giddy!
Up first, some fun at the pumpkin patch. Well, maybe fun for Carson. Not so much for Ava. Long story, but not my proudest mommy moment trying to take these pictures. Oh well, Old McDonald Farm worker's I promise my girl is usually not this bratty and I do love her. Laughing....

Then some fun at Ava's besties birthday party. Aubree, you are the cutest Hula girl ever!

Jeff and Alecia always have the best pumpkin carving parties. Ava was really into using her knife. At least this year she didn't put it in her mouth. I guess this mommy took the hint to watch her child carefully when a knife is involved. It may also be because I am almost another year wiser.

Here the little pumpkin and I are at 27 weeks.

And finally, we are in decorating mode now. Emma's furniture has arrived.

Not the best picture from my phone but you get the idea. Now to decide if I want to paint the room and if so what color?!?

What a fun month. With oh so much more to come. October you Rock!

2011-10-16T17:39:00.000-07:00

What a fun day we had today. It may be the hormones but I found myself tearing up being so thankful for my sweet family. It was perfect for my airplane loving girl. Simply AMAZING.

Ava got to go inside the cockpit of one, I hope they don't still fly that one because I think she tired to push every button. The pilot made a comment on how much she sure loves planes, maybe as much as he did when he was her age. I just looked at him and politely stated that Jesus and I have had a talk and I just really don't think he would put me through that career path. He laughed, I was serious!

It is the simplest of days that make me so happy. Seeing this girl and her daddy in total awe was a highlight. One that I hope is etched into my memory.

Some days are just fun....

2011-10-11T18:10:00.000-07:00

This was one of them. Getting to see all the wonder my little two year old has for all things nature. What a perfect place for us to visit, the butterfly museum did not disappoint. Ava was scared if they did get to close, or maybe I should say terrified. She kept repeating, "Mommy, becareful butterflies bite!" At the end she did think they were nice and keep telling me they didn't have teeth. It was such a fun morning. It made me so thankful God gave me this special girl who brings so much joy to my life. What fun times I have with this girl!

Dewberry Farms is the place to be....

2011-10-08T17:20:00.000-07:00

What a great day we had with our some of our best buddies. Dewberry farms is really the place to be.
What is better than friends?

Pumpkin Patches?

Train rides/Cool swings?

Huge trampolines?
Giant haystacks?

Slides?

Really, nothing is much better! We are so enjoying the beginning of fall.

Here we are at 22 weeks

2011-09-24T17:39:00.000-07:00

I am behind. Again. But I wanted to post how we looked at 22 weeks.

Things are progressing nicely. Happy to report our little sweet girl is looking good. The down side is that I am trying to go a little faster so another shot was added this week. At least it's just once a week instead of daily. Did I mention that I am tired of needles. Well, I am. You should see my poor stomach. Now it will be both the upper legs and stomach that is all bruised up. I. AM. SICK. OF. SHOTS. I forgot to mention the new shot is thick as cooking oil. Yep, you can actually see through the needle. I hope my girls appreciate this one day? Probably not! ;-)

Still a girl!

Her sweet profile.

Daddy's feet. The second toe is bigger than the big toe and they are looking BIG already!

Since they are taking little Emma early she will be here in 3 short months. This has flown by!

Recap on Ava's first day of school.

2011-09-23T19:20:00.000-07:00

Ava has went to school a total of 4 times and you guessed it she is already sick. Running over 103 today so our fun plans were canceled and off to the doctor we went. We are thinking just a sinus infection, hopefully antibiotics will kick it soon. When asking Ava if she feels bad, her response is "No, Aba okay Mommy!" This girl is even sweet when sick. Now back to school pictures....I got a little side tracked.

On the first morning Ava kept telling me she was excited for school. She wanted to go as soon as her breakfast was consumed. Let's just say that when Jarred picked her up they had quite a few stories to share:
1. She loved her lunch. So much that after hers was done she moved on to others.
2. She went pee in the potty twice. That stinker won't go at home.
3. No nap for our girl. She was the only one.
4. During music she sang the loudest
Yikes! Do we have that child?

I am happy to report that she did calm down a little. Naps are being taking, but she is still taking some lunches! At least she loves going. The best part is her teacher is Ms. Nancy who Ava calls Fancy Nancy!

Happy school year Ava! I hope you continue to love it.

More fun at Mamie's

2011-09-17T20:03:00.000-07:00

Ava and I spent the weekend at the in-laws while daddy was at the deer lease getting things ready for the season. It was Canton weekend and I wanted to do a little shopping for Emma's room. Of course, Ava got a few cute things as well.

Ava loves farm life. Feeding horses, fixing flat tires, taking in trash, and scooping poop. What could be better? I am really going to talk to this girl. I mean scooping poop, Really Ava?

Then there is outdoor "snack" picnics....

Then bubble bath time with your favorite cousin....

Matching PJs....

Fixing breakfast....

Farm life is for this girl. Maybe there will be hope for Emma? Probably not!
Ava's only question, When we going back?

Tea for Five Please

2011-09-17T19:32:00.001-07:00

I now have a girl who loves tea parties! Who wouldn't after the tea party that her Mamie had just for her. This girl was in LOVE. She invited her Papaw, Mommy, and even Buddy. Yes, even the dog. She did make him dress up for a treat though. He thought it was totally worth it.

This was her pinky up. She is so stinkin cute. I just love her so.

I now have a girl that asks for tea parties daily. We will have one soon and this time our guests of honor will be Daddy, Rozzy, and Sophie. These dogs are sure lucky to be in our family!

Toddler Busy Bags

2011-08-31T19:10:00.001-07:00

Many of you know that I had the privilege of participating in a "Toddler Busy Bag Swap". I wanted all of you mommy's to be able to see the awesome 25 projects that I came away with. Please go to these two blogs (Chelsea and Kirby)where they will be posting daily how-to posts so you can each make your own. Ava and I have already been very "busy" with 3 of these bags.

Here are a few pictures from our own bag (we had Silly face mint tins)

Wait until you see some of the others! There were some very talented ladies in our group. Please let me know if you have any questions about this project. I will be happy to answer any questions and if I can't I will know who can! I am so excited about all the teaching/fun times these bags are going to provide with Ava!

Our first visit to the dentist

2011-08-30T17:25:00.000-07:00

Ava was excited to see the dentist. She would flash that pretty smile of hers and say cheese. I told her they were going to brush and then take a look. She did great UNTIL the x-rays. Mommy could not go with her due to Emma cooking away so they took her by herself. I tried to explain they were going to take some pictures but who wouldn't be scared of that big machine?
She loved getting the stickers for doing such a good job and we are happy to report NO CAVITIES!

I am so proud of my no cavity big girl!

Catching up....

2011-08-27T12:31:00.000-07:00

What a week! A really fun week. Ava and I have had the best time hanging with our buds. We are probably partial, but we really do think we have the best!
First up, Jumpalooza with Andee and Aubree. The girls were in LOVE. They jumped for almost 3 solid hours. Oh how it helped Ava take a long nap. (I know one of my nephew's would love this place. Maybe his mommy should bring him for a visit. Hint, Hint!)

Up next, dinner and cupcakes to celebrate a special birthday. Happy 30th Birthday to one of our favorite girls! We sure do love you Alecia! Ava loved getting to have dinner and a cupcake with her boyfriend Lincoln.

Surprise, It's a.......

2011-08-20T16:31:00.000-07:00

We are officially Team Pink!

Hello, My Name is Emma Ruth. I am named after my daddy's Mamaw Ruth.

Ava loves her sissy!

From the fullness of grace we have received one blessing after another--John 1:16

Congrats to Mr. and Mrs. B

2011-08-19T14:01:00.000-07:00

Don't weddings make you happy? They always make me take a moment and thank God for my sweet Hubs! Jarred's sweet cousin got married last weekend and we had such a great time with all the family. Here are a few pictures:

Here we are dancing the night away~

Wow dude, big airplanes!

2011-08-19T13:39:00.001-07:00

The best part of having a wedding out of town is when you get to stay with some of your favorite people. We had a great weekend hanging out with Mamaw and Pappy. Another big bonus was Jarred's Aunt Michele and Uncle Larry were in from Georgia and it was great catching up with them!

Miss Priss loves planes. We joke that she may be a pilot. Pappy is retired Air Force so a trip to the Barksdale Airforce base was perfect. I did indeed mumble a prayer that went a little like this--"Sweet Jesus I am totally okay with Ava being a pilot but just not a fighter pilot! I sure hope he was listening especially after she got so close and personal. She was a hoot running from plane to plane. We heard may "Wow Dude", "Big Plane", and one "AMAZING"!

I got such a kick out of this picture. Maybe this is where the pinup pictures all started?

Being there makes me even more thankful for the men and women who have and are fighting for our freedom.

This girl loves her dad!

2011-08-09T05:32:00.001-07:00

I mean loves him. It sometimes makes me mad. Okay, only half kidding. They have been having bonding time over a deer stand. Yep, a deer stand. Let's just call her, "Ava the builder". She loves it! I get so tickled to see her copy Jarred. The girl can work a tape measure.

I am writing this mainly because I don't want to forget and it really is to funny not to share. For those of you who know my hubby he sings/talks in a really high pitched voice when he is trying to annoy you. This gets under my skin. Well, this gets under Ava's skin too! She has been saying, "No No Daddy" and when this did not work the other day she said "shut up"! Yikes. She did get a spanking but I was hiding so I could laugh because this girl said just what I wanted to say myself. We are concerned where she heard this. Could it be from me? Nah!

Schlitterbahn Baby! (Warning lots of pictures!)

2011-08-03T07:31:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite places. How could it not be after going yearly with my entire family since the age of 2? Yes, 2. It was not even Schlitterbahn then, I think it was called Camp Landa? What precious memories. This year I started the tradition with my own 2 year old. Not quite as much family this go around but I am wishing that may change in the following years. It was always so much fun playing with the cousins and I wish the same for my sweet girl.

What a fun weekend. And the best part, Ava was in love. LOVE. She loved the big slides and the little slides. She was all smiles and so was her mommy!

We celebrated a very special birthday Friday night at our favorite restaurant, The Gristmill. Y-U-M-M-O. Happy birthday to our Auntie! We love you so much. You always make us feel so loved and special! You have been such an example on how to love. I hope my nephews view me the same way one day.

The new tradition has started, see ya again next year Schlitterbahn! (P.S. We are really excited about the 4 new rides coming!)

Catching up....

2011-07-31T17:54:00.000-07:00

I am behind again. I really don't have the energy to blog right now. Sad, but oh so true. I am ready for some of my energy to return. Hopefully any day now.

First up....our annual scrapbook convention. Taking classes and lots of shopping! I am happy to report it has put me in the mood to scrap. I will be caught up before baby #2 comes. I will get caught up. I will. We had a new scrapper this year, baby Carson! Sadly, it will probably be his last if daddy has anything to do with it.

I had my surgery 2 weeks ago to keep baby T cooking. My mother-in-law came to help and then we went back with her for a nice weekend. Lucky for us Brooke and the kiddos joined us.

We converted Ava's bed to a toddler bed. I was scared on how she would do but she loves it. She stays put all night. And strangely since the switch she has been sleeping later?!? Mommy loves this!

This baby seems to be growing good. My waist line is expanding. Have I told you guys how much I love maternity jeans? Many appointments in the next few weeks. Stay tuned for the sex of baby T. It won't be long.
Have a great week.

More on this wild pregnancy ride.....

2011-07-15T15:45:00.000-07:00

We are thrilled to welcome a new baby. To be honest, I love being a mom. The smiles, the awe on her face with new things, the newly spoken words. To me nothing is better. I am afraid of how it will be with two? Praying for even more grace to get me through. But we are so ready.

This is my 5th pregnancy. Crazy right? After losing 3 precious babies we were so happy that this one decided to stick with us to become part of our family. It is so hard to lose babies, really one of the hardest things I have faced. My mother-in-law came for our specialist appointment last Thursday and brought the sweetest book. It was called "Heaven is for Real", it is how one special 3 year old saw heaven. In one chapter, it talked about how he meet his baby sister that his mom miscarried. (Crying was involved at this point. Happy crying!) She even told him she did not have a name because her mom and dad did not get to name her. She told her brother she could not wait until her mom and dad got there! Really?!? The little boy went on to tell his mom not to worry that God adopted her for now. This made me so very happy. To be honest, my negative side was wondering....did this little boy really go? Is this for real? But I am hoping so. What a joyous day when I have 3 kiddos who can't wait to see my face as I can't wait to see theirs!

This has been a hard pregnancy. There have been daily Lovenox injections involved to make sure my body does not clot the baby off. Scary stuff! I still, 13 weeks later dread those nightly shots. I keep hoping they would get better but not yet. I still cringe almost every night.

We had our appointment with the specialist last week and everything looked great. Baby T was dancing around having a great time. What a relief to know so far baby looks as healthy as can be. We were even told most likely what the baby is! Since only by 70% we are waiting to tell until we go back to him in 5 weeks.

Here we are at 12 weeks plus a few days.

We think God for this "Bun in the Oven" and pray many great blessings on its life.

More to come soon.

4th of July Fun

2011-07-13T07:17:00.000-07:00

We had a low key 4th this year. It was hot dogs and Chuy's jalapeno dip for dinner. I got a new recipe and to be honest it tasted very similar! For dessert we made festive 4th of July strawberries and then it was off to see the fireworks. We were lucky we found a show since almost all were canceled including the one at our church due to the drought like conditions. We need rain!

Ava was getting some practice in by helping burp Carson. At least I know she can multitask. Watching TV + burping at the same time=Impressive!

This girl loves her some fireworks. We heard several phrases during the course of the show, "Wow" "Awesome Dude" and many "Pretty". We had a great time in the back of daddy's truck. It is times like these the best memories are made.

Can you believe this sassy pose? Where does she get this? All I can say is that I love her more with each passing day. Sass and all!

Can you guess what's going on at are house?

2011-07-07T13:07:00.001-07:00

Need a hint?

Yep, you guessed it! We have a bun in the oven.

The cooking should be complete at the end of January!
We are thrilled! More to come on this wild pregnancy ride soon.

2011-07-04T07:33:00.001-07:00

Wishing you a HaPpY and SaFe 4th of July.

Picture Dump

2011-07-03T07:31:00.000-07:00

Ava meets her Aunt Michele for the first time. I think it she was in love! We had a great day catching up with Michele. Maybe a trip to Georgia in the future?

Ava's first movie. She did so good. Give her some popcorn and an icee and she is good to go. Don't try to share her popcorn though. She told me "No Mommy, Mine!" She loved Cars 2. This girl is just a little boy! ha

Happy Father's day to the best daddy! We thank God for you Jarred! You are amazing.

Happy Birthday to Ashley!

Blackberry Pickin

2011-06-20T11:03:00.000-07:00

It is that time of year again. Time for our annual blackberry pickin'. We took Andee and Aubs this year to join in our fun. Fun it was. These girls were pickin' fools.

Now we are busy cooking with our berries. I will be sure to post our fun new recipes we are trying if any are worth sharing.

Weekend Updates

2011-06-18T07:55:00.000-07:00

We have been having lots of summer fun. I would have to say this is mine and Ava's favorite season. Hubs not so much. We are water lovin girls.
Up first, waterpark with our buds.

Camping was next on the Agenda. This was such a fun weekend with my family. We went to the coolest camping park. Arcades, waterpark, outdoor movies. Ava had a blast with her cousins. So much fun that there was no time for eating and sleeping. I was one tired mommy!

And the good news is the fun weekends are just going to keep coming! Summer, oh how we love you!

Carson Phillip is here!

2011-06-15T17:11:00.000-07:00

He is here! We could not be more excited. Our little man "C" arrived June 10th at around 3:30. He caused a little drama in the beginning, but is doing great now! Welcome to your wonderful family Carson. Your truly are one blessed little boy!

Here we are hanging out. Carson wanted to stay put and was showing this by making his heart rate decrease. It did not work for long, a c-section was planned and off they went. I am going to get that stinker for scaring his mom and dad.

Here the precious boy is. He is already so loved!

This is one proud Aunt Angela. I can't wait to watch you grow. And to protect you from two certain men in your life. Not mentioning any names here!

What a great day June 10th was! It will always now be one of my favorites!

2011-06-02T15:50:00.001-07:00

Wow, I am behind. It has been a crazy week "again" around our parts. All the fun is catching up with this mommy. I. Am. Pooped.

I had a nice mini vacation and we headed to the in-laws to celebrate a big 60th birthday. My kiddo was in heaven that her Na-Na was there. What a pair these two are! First up, photos of the besties....at least for now. I wonder where they will be in 15 years? I am praying they will still like each other. Hey, praying will help!

Up next, the birthday boy and his party. Happy 60th Birthday Old Man.

We also fit in a visit with some friends. We did not manage to take any pictures because two kiddos were running around like they lived in barns. I won't name any names but I bet you all have a really good guess. We just broke mom and dad in for their upcoming adventure. Plus, a mom on bed rest does need a little entertainment. Katie, we were thinking of you when we brought them!

I Go Swimming. I Go Swimming. I Go Swimming. Yes, Ava we all heard you.

There is nothing better than long weekends spent with family. We are thrilled that this summer is packed with many fun weekends on all sides of our family. I sure do love them all!

Week in Pictures, and a few words.....

2011-05-18T13:30:00.000-07:00

Hey there! It has been a busy week around these parts. And, oh so much fun!

The battery for Ava's New Jeep(new to us!)arrived Monday. This girl is in love. She is a little short on reaching the petal but this did not stop her. There is a radio and she loves to change stations while driving. This would be a bad habit picked up from daddy. A little drivers Ed is much needed, hopefully one topic discussed will be keeping you eye on the road and your hands on the steering wheel at all times! Beware of our cu-de-sac for this new driver.

Tuesday, hubs and I had a hot date. Bon Jovi baby! You know you are getting old when you may be the youngest at a "rock" concert. It was a great time. He played many old tunes; one which Jarred said his mom made him turn off in the eighties because it was "devil music"....we got a big kick out of this one. Now his mom likes him, who couldn't really?

And of course there was some time spent in the pool. It won't be long and we will be going to the big pool! This girl LOVES the water!

I had the best lunch date at this fine establishment.

Weekend fun included birthday parties, swimming at our fav pool, and a baby shower for a co-worker! I did manage to get some grocery shopping and laundry done somewhere in here. Don't know how, but I did.

Sea World 2011

2011-05-16T20:02:00.000-07:00

I take to many photos, how do I pick my favs? I narrowed it down from 250 to about 30. That is still to many to share. My name is Angela, and I. have. a. problem.

A quick weekend get away that was packed with lots of fun. Let's just say that Ava is now a fan of Shamu and now an ever bigger fan of Sesame Street. We rode mini roller coasters, watched shows, feed dolphins, played in the water, made smores, and even had breakfast with Elmo and friends.

This was a trip this mommy will never forget. There is just something when I see the excitement in my girls face. I love experiencing all these first moments with her. Nothing, absolutely nothing makes me happier!

Mother's Day

2011-05-07T18:59:00.000-07:00

Her children arise up, and call her blessed - Proverbs 31:28

I am glad we have Mother's day. I always like to celebrate my mom on this great day. I always search for the perfect gift. Something that will make her happy. She has made me happy for 30 years.

It is strange to think that now someone celebrates me. But to be honest I don't need to be celebrated. I want to celebrate my precious girl who made me a mommy. I am so in love with this role. I love being a mommy to Ava and I hope that she loves being a daughter to me.

This is my third Mother's day, and every year I love being a mommy more and more. I pray that I will inspire, love, nurture, encourage the way I was. I have never loved my mother more. The job of mommy is hard. I don't know about you, but I love this hard job. The most important job I will ever have.

Thanks mom. You made the job look easy when I know it was not. Long days of taxiing to cheer practice, cooking, cleaning, loving us girls. And now your job continues and Ava is seeing first hand how lucky I am.

Happy Mother's day to all you mommies! I hope you feel as blessed as I do.

Don't you all think we should take time to stop and smell the flowers?

What a weekend!

2011-05-02T18:16:00.000-07:00

It was a busy one round these parts. But oh how I loved every minute(well almost every minute!) I won't go into the fact that I became a little stressed and just a little snippy on Saturday. Or the fact that I did almost chop my finger off, it is still bleeding as of today. I enjoyed celebrating this special "Mommy 2 Bee"

A cute bee themed shower complete with a yellow and black candy/treat bar. Carson got a load of gifts that he will be needing in just about 6 short weeks. Can you believe only 6 more weeks? Eek, I can't wait to meet and start spoiling little C.

Isn't the little mascot the cutest? I may be partial. Just saying.

We had the joy of having Mamie in for the shower. A little photo shoot of Mamie and her girl was in store. How could you not take pictures of these two? I would say my love of leopard is truly rubbing off in everyone in this family!

Happy Week to you all!

2011-04-25T19:12:00.000-07:00

Easter, what a blessing! Blessed that he is risen. Blessed for time with family.

First up: dying eggs with my peeps. We made Veggie Tale eggs, a favorite around here. Ava loves all things crafty so this made for a very happy/messy girl. Daddy was a little messy as well. Should I mention the floor? Nah!

The easter bunny came to leave a trail to Daddy and Ava's basket. The bunny must have something against me because I seem to never have one. Why? The eggs were quickly found and the basket's enjoyed. Ava's favorite gift: new silverware. Hum? Like Mommy maybe? Yep, I think so!

Then off to church to celebrate our Risen Savior.

Last stop: Easter lunch with the fam. What a blessing family is. Watching our kiddos brought back so many happy memories of our own easter egg hunts, now we are watching them. Blessed! Blessed indeed!

Happy Easter to you all. I hope you believe in the true meaning of this special holiday!

Joy

2011-04-20T12:58:00.000-07:00

Joy is...
a zoo trip with friends

and a friend who finds great joy in trying to sneak in...

Joy is...
Easter parties that have the best bunnies (wonder who is was?)

Joy is...
a cute "hand-me-down" Easter outfit

Joy is...
bunny kisses

Joy is...
this

Oh.My.Word. This is simply amazing. Only 5 ingredients--milk, cream, eggs, sugar, lemon. Lemon pie ice cream on a spoon. Go get this, like now. You WILL NOT be disappointed. Don't like lemon, no worries--there are many more to chose from.

Spring is here, but only for a few more weeks!

2011-04-11T19:11:00.000-07:00

We are so glad. It is only a month until the pool opens! Can I get an amen? I had such a glorious moment in Target this week as I bought sunscreen and a new beach towel. Then the small surprise in the mail, pool tags! Yes! Ava is getting ready too, she is loving wearing her sun hats around. While on a walk the other night we had several comments from neighbors about how stylish she was! We are READY.

So until then we are improvising....

Her Daddy is teaching her well, all cars have to be clean!

2011-04-09T19:59:00.000-07:00

You scream, I scream, we all scream for ICE CREAM!

I doubt whether the world holds for any one a more soul-stirring surprise than the first adventure with ice cream...

Without ice cream life is meaningless...

It takes twelve gallons of milk to make one gallon of ice cream

It takes an average of 50 licks to finish off a single scoop ice cream cone

Children age 2 through 12 and adults over 45 eat the most ice cream (they did not count hubs in this poll!)

98 percent of homes in the United States have ice cream in them

Vanilla is the number one selling flavor of ice cream, my fav is Strawberry! What's yours?

Our new addition, Noah James

2011-04-09T18:59:00.001-07:00

April 8, 2011. A day that I will remember forever. So much emotion seeing a baby in his first few moments. What a blessing. One that will never be taken lightly. We thank God for this blessing. Babies are his biggest blessing, don't you think?

12:39pm

20 and 1/2 inches long
8 pounds 4 ounces, the same exact weight of his Mama

Saying hello to his big brother for the first time
I think every parent wanders how their first born will be affected by a new baby. We were excited to see what Nathan was going to think. I think we all caught our breathe as he came in the room wondering and praying that he would be excited. That he would still feel loved. All those fears were put to rest quickly. Very quickly. He was so proud. Wanting to jump up with his mama to see his new buddy. Kissing his sweet head. Asking me to take his picture. Emotion. Big emotion. I was thankful that any of the pictures came out because I lost it. Nathan is going to a great big bother. He is already so in love!
I sure love my nephews! They bring so much joy to this family. I pray so many sweet blessing on Noah's life. Such a honor to be part of his life. I will never forget this day, the day Noah took his first breathe.

Happiness is...

2011-04-03T07:47:00.000-07:00

Happiness is...
...making pretend dinner with our new play-doh
Happiness is...
...having Sonic on our new picnic table
Happiness is...
...new IronMan coloring sheets
Happiness is...
...that crinkled nose smile that makes me wonder what I did to deserve her
Happiness is...
...letters in the tub and hearing her sweet rendition of ABC's....A, C, D, F
Happiness is...
...watching new life form in one of my sweetest friends
Happiness is...
...this!

More birthday pics....

2011-04-01T13:01:00.000-07:00

My husband and my daughter love Ironman. I know, weird huh? So of course I knew the perfect theme for these two. We had a little get together to celebrate these birthday buddies "ion-man" style.
How do you like Ava's new ride? What is it with this girl and boy toys? Trains, Ironman, cars....what is next? It was a perfect day! Happy Birthday to my Loves!

My favorite day! Oh how I love March 31st

2011-03-27T20:56:00.000-07:00

I love this date, March 31st has brought many blessings to my life. On March 31, 1979 my husband was born. I thank God daily for the wonderful man and father he is. March 31, 2009 my daughter was born. God has blessed me with a sweet girl who brings many smiles and laughs to our days. The world is much better because these two people came on March 31st!
I am feeling weepy. How can it be that my baby is two? It seems that she maybe could be a year old, but 2, no way!

Ava,
You have been such a huge blessing. I love your smile and that sweet laugh that goes with it! It really is contagious. There are many times that you are laughing and crinkling that little nose up that I think, Is this real? Is she really mine? You make each day so much brighter. I look forward to each new day that starts because we have so much fun together! From cooking to bath time we have a blast.

Your speech is taking off. I love to hear the new words that sound so stinkin' cute. Unfortunately, your new favorite word seems to be no. You know all your colors and we are now working on letters. We ask you how old you are and you say two and hold up 4 fingers. We are working on that.
Here are some of your favs right now:
Thomas the train
Ironman
Cars
Veggie Tales (everytime we get in the car I hear "Bot-Bot" which means "Bob"
You love your dog Rozzy
Your cousin Na-Na seems to be a favorite since he was here for your party
The Little Gym
Slides (at the park and at school)

You are such a good eater, you eat everything. You still love all kinds of fruit. You love to eat Mexican food so you can have chips and dip. Thank God for 1/2 price fajita night at Pappasitos!
Now to hubs:
Jarred,
Happy Birthday! You are such an amazing dad and husband. You bless me is so many ways. I love that we are friends and we have such good times together. I love that after all these years I still get excited to have a date with you and just talk. You mean everything to me and I feel so lucky that God blessed my life in such a big way by just allowing me to be your wife. I am so proud to call you my husband and the father of my children. I pray many blessings on our family this upcoming year. I love you!
Love,
Me

Weekend Fun----Part 2

2011-03-27T20:50:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Ava's Sweet Shoppe
What is better than a party with nothing but candy?
Really nothing!

Gummy bears, Star Bursts, Ring Pops, Oh My!
We want to thank everyone who came and made Ava's special day so special! Each of you mean so much to us. We are blessed. We hope you had as much fun as we did. I hope your not mad for the many sugar highs and hyper activity. Don't worry, we had a few here too!
Much love to each of you!

Weekend Fun---Part 1

2011-03-27T15:26:00.000-07:00

This weekend caused many smiles, many happy thoughts, and many laughs. I feel so lucky! Lucky to have hubs, a precious "almost" 2 year old, and family/friends. I am one blessed chick!

Saturday was Ava's birthday party so we had Jarred's family come in early to have some fun! Brooke, Susie, and Nathan arrived on Friday. We rented a bounce house for the big day and I got a call asking if it would be okay if they dropped it off early and left it for the weekend! Really!?! Score for us! The kiddos had so much fun jumping (Ok, and the parents and Mamies!)
That night we took Nathan to the Aquarium restaurant so he could see the Sharks! The kiddos were amazed. They loved to watch the fish, there were many oohs and awws! After dinner the train took us to see the sharks! I think they could have cared less! What they cared about was the train that took us there. These kiddos are train lovin' fools! Then it was off to the carousel and farris wheel. What an absolutely perfect night!

My two days of Spring Break

2011-03-20T18:58:00.000-07:00

It is Sunday already? Man, this weekend went by way to fast. I laughed that I got two days of Spring break. It is weeks like this I wish I would have re-thought the job decision.

Friday night we celebrated our best bud, Elissa. She turned 30 last Monday and this was the first day we could all get together. Happy Birthday to our "bestest" friend and "bestest" Aunt! Life truly is so much sweeter with you!
Saturday we went to a fish fry with my family. It was great to hang with them for the afternoon. We were planning our next camping trip (Yes, Kevin you have to be with me all weekend!) and planning a family vacation for later in the year. We decided that we need to hangout for no reason more often. It was horse riding, fish feeding, much swinging, eating good time! And, this is my favorite picture from the weekend:

Sunday was spent cleaning, cooking, and getting ready for someone's birthday! My projects are turning out so stinkin' cute if I can say so myself. Now I am completely pooped. Is the weekend really already over?

Weekend of "Na-Na"

2011-03-14T11:42:00.000-07:00

We had the best weekend. Ava and I headed to Brooke's to celebrate a baby shower for Noah James. We left on Friday and arrived in time to pick Nathan up from school. To say he was excited to see her is an understatement. We then headed to a local park for some fun.

(Note: all pictures were taken with the iphone because someone thought she was being really organized and plugged the battery in to charge only to run off and leave it. I felt naked all weekend without it. I was so mad at myself! Brooke was nice enough to find a camera shop but the battery was over $100 dollars! Argg....)
Ava had a blast feeding the ducks. Nathan was so excited to be able to teach her how. Then it was off to play at the park.

On Saturday we went and did what we do best, SHOP! We found Ava a bow to go with her Easter dress. What do you think? Laughing.....
Ava loves Na-Na's Choo-Choos. I give up! My girl is not going to like dolls or Barbie's. She loves boy toys(which brings great pleasure to her daddy! He thinks this is a sure sign she will love to hunt and fish. Can you say Camo bows?) At least she still looks like a princess doing it!
Ava's favorite toys right now:
1. Her remote control truck from Auntie Rosie and Danny
2. Ironman action figure from Aunt Lissa and Uncle Jimmy
3. Choo Choo Trains
Her birthday list mainly consists of boy toys. Cars and trains.

We had a great weekend. We are excited for Noah to get here, only 4 more short weeks. I did not get any pics of the shower. Can you say MAD! Argg...

Oh Weekends

2011-03-02T08:15:00.000-08:00

Oh weekends, oh how I love you! Just wish you would stick around a little longer and maybe even come around again sooner.

This weekend was a fun one. I am loving my new schedule that I get 3 day weekends twice a month. Can I get an amen! We spent this weekend at the in-laws celebrating a mommy to be! You will see in these pictures that my girl is a country girl. She loves being outside doing all things "country"!

Then on Sunday we celebrated a birthday for Uncle Jimmy! Happy 31st birthday to our best bud. Can you say steaks and cheesecake? Y-U-M-M-O! And, when I say cheesecake I mean the raspberry white chocolate from the Cheesecake Factory. The best part was we got to take leftovers.
See ya again soon weekend, only 2 more days! Wonder what fun you will bring this time?

Friends

2011-02-23T19:47:00.001-08:00

I always like to count my blessings. One of my biggest, friends. Oh how I love my buddies!
What can I say about these two? We grew up together. I met both in the 6th grade and have developed a deep love for them over the years. There were good times and bad times. Many funny times. Some sad times. But all "times" were so much more manageable with them both.

Happy 30th Birthday to Amanda Panda!
Maybe there will even be a marriage in our future "times"?!? Laughing!

Busy Bees

2011-02-19T13:48:00.000-08:00

Like the title? Little Miss is obsessed with all things "Bees" these days. If she sees anything that even resembles a bug she screams "A Bee" "A Bee".

We were true to title this week/weekend. It has been a hard end of the week in many ways, but I am trusting God's plan for our family. I know he was a plan that will knock our socks off, this is what I am trusting!

We had many fun fun times. I soaked in every minute with hubs and Little Miss. It was nice to have so much time off together.

I mean what is better than lunches with family and friends + shopping + parks + celebrating birthdays + little gym + cheerleading(story for another day) + more scrapbooking + more shopping(can I get a big AMEN!)--->Nothing!!! Not even skiing!
Mine and Ava's favorite lunch date.
Shopping at our favorite jewelry store!
Happy Birthday to my Dad! We had a great dinner out celebrating with him. What a fun night!

Need your help!

2011-02-15T18:28:00.000-08:00

Please vote for your favorite 3 pictures for Ava's 2nd Birthday invitation. I am having such a hard time. I love them all. I had such a hard time narrowing it down to 8. What can I say, I love this girl!

Our Happy "Love" Day!

2011-02-14T17:18:00.000-08:00

Oh how I love my peeps. What is better then celebrating the ones you love? It was a busy day and I was thankful to be with them both. (Secretly I was thinking about skiing this morning but as the day went on I was happy to be together.)

The day started with Ava's Valentine's Party at MDO. She had fun decorating her goodie bag and looking at all the gifts she got from her sweet friends. I have come to love her friends and their Mommy's. My girl is seriously like her mama in loving all things crafty. We could not give her stickers fast enough. She kept saying "prease". How can you resist this?
After the party Mommy let Ava play on the indoor play ground for a while. This girl is a sliding fool. Let's just saying there was some kicking and screaming when it was time to leave. Mommy did not love this!
What a surprise when we got home! Flowers for us both. Ava's first dozen roses. I am glad her daddy is teaching her early! I want her hubs to spoil her in just the same sweet ways. There was a bouquet for Daddy too. His was a dozen candies. Of course Ava got a few other goodies from us both that she loved!
Then off to dinner. Yummy crab cakes and shrimp.
Love, Love, Love! What more can I say? I am so in love!

Happy Love Day!

2011-02-14T12:16:00.000-08:00

Chocolate Party, Scrapbooking, and Picture Taking

2011-02-13T17:51:00.000-08:00

What a weekend. I was a little sad that our vacation to Breckenridge was canceled at the last minute for several different reasons. It was hard not to be disappointed but as hubs put it we have the rest of our lives to ski. So what is a girl to do? Enjoy the weekend!

First off it was a weekend of scrapbooking with E. I am so happy to report that I am almost done with 2009. That's 2009 ya'll! It still sounds so depressing but I am happy to have made a dent in my list of pages. I had worked so hard to get my room all nice and clean but it is a total wreck again. Arrrgg...

Saturday night I was off to a Chocolate party. What is better than chocolate and girl time? Not much. There was chocolate fondue that went perfectly with the strawberries, pretzels, marshmallows, and graham crackers. Everyone also brought their favorite chocolate candies so everyone could take a treat bag home. (Or maybe 3 or 4 bags!)
I do have to say the catching up was the best part. Kid stories + Pregnancy issues + Worst dates + Speed cooking + Bad valentine flowers + TV shows. I seriously have not laughed that much in months, maybe years! What a great idea. Thanks for having me over girls. You are such a fun group!
Sunday we had a mini photo shoot for Ava's birthday inviation and a few maternity pictures for E. And of course, a little more scrapbooking! Ava's pics turned so stinkin cute ya'll! Can't wait to share. Here are a few of E with her little bump. In case you were wondering, it's a boy responsible for the expanding waist line.

Tomorrow is love day. One of my favorties. I wish all of you much love.

What is better than an "ice" day?

2011-02-05T19:08:00.000-08:00

Really nothing. What could be better than: No where to go. No one to see. Wearing PJs. Sleeping in. Watching movies. Eating pizza. Snuggling with my peeps. Sneaking out for dinner with the 3 V's.

Oh "ice" days, we could really use more of you. Just next time, do you think you could produce at least a little snow? I mean it would be more fun than just ice. Just saying. Thanks!

Got nothing.

2011-01-30T17:32:00.000-08:00

It has been a slow few weeks. The kind that are so nice. Naps on the weekends, hanging out with family, and just really enjoying each other. We have been working around the house...still working on that darn scrapbook room. I finally got drapes in our bedroom and I am loving how they turned out. I have a few more projects in the works that I am excited to see completed.

Tomorrow is February 1st. This starts our 14 days of love notes. I love leaving little gifts for Jarred and Ava in their little mailboxes. What do you guys do to show love?

What is a post without a few pictures? So, here you go:
What is a girl to do when mommy does not give you the beaters? Lick anyway!
Wants to me like mommy!

I hope you all have a great week! Vacation for us soon, can't wait!

Random thoughts from me.

2011-01-19T21:50:00.000-08:00

It has been a rough week. The kind that your glad when your days are done. If you know me I tend to analyze a problem to death. I tend to care what people are thinking or saying way to much. Big news flash is people let you down. God does not. He cares when no one else does and ultimately what he thinks is truly the only thing that really matters.

I had a revelation today. I was called for bigger things. Maybe it is to be a mentor to a group of young 20s on Monday nights. Maybe it is to be the best Sunday school teacher to the 2 year olds. Or maybe it is to be a good wife and a good mom. Whatever that bigger thing is I so desire to get it right.

A very wise women wrote today that bitterness can be contagious. I don't want to be a bitter person. I want God to use me in big ways.

Just because she looked cute!

2011-01-19T18:59:00.000-08:00

This is her excited face. She saw an airplane!

Oh how I love this stylish girl!

A long over due Happy New Year

2011-01-12T11:50:00.000-08:00

Happy New year. Sorry it has taken me so long in wishing you this. I hope you are all having a blessed New Year! We have been busy around here. It seemed to take me much longer to get the Christmas down this year. (I am thinking next year I am scaling down, but I do say this every year.) We have been busy making Ava's room a more big girl room. We have taken out the rocking chair to make room for her new kitchen and all the "junk" that goes with it! I am also currently working on getting my scrapbook room cleaned. This year I must get caught up. I must, I must. I am only about a year and a half behind. It is stressing me out to just type this!

I am so looking forward to this upcoming year. I know there are going to be so many happy memories made just as there were last year. Bring on 2011, I am ready!

Thought I would share a few pictures from New Years weekend. We spent it celebrating Christmas with Jarred's family.
Don't you love that Ava knows exactly how to use a camera. I think this clearly shows that she has one shoved in her face way to often. This picture for sure cracks me up. Christmas is just not Christmas if Brooke and I don't get a new purse organizer. The Thomas the train round house was a huge hit with both kiddos. Ava, does Mommy really have to buy you a train set? Aren't baby dolls fun? It was also an added treat that we had the chance to visit with Danny, Amanda, and kiddos. We sure had a great weekend.

Happy New Year again to you all. I pray many blessings for you and all your families in 2011!

Christmas 2010

2010-12-28T19:34:00.000-08:00

Christmas was all about family and friends this year. Wow, what a great time. Ava had the time of her life. She was amazed at all the new gifts she was given. She would smile the sweetest smile that would melt your heart. I love that girl.

Christmas Eve was spent with my side of the family. The highlight was the gift my sweet sister got. Who knew that new undies would be such a hit. (Mom, thanks for the many laughs!) As I was looking at the pictures I have to laugh. Really? I just love my family! What a blessing they are. Now it was time for us to get to bed so Santa could come. Of course there was milk and Santa's favorite peanut butter blossoms left for him. For those of you that know my sweet hubs you know he has what I would call an obsession with the movie The Christmas Story. If you come to our house it will be playing all day and he will practically quote you the whole movie. (So annoying!) This year I found the perfect lamp for him. He really does deserve a "major award" in my eyes.
Then we all were all up at 6:30 ready to see what Santa had brought. (Thanks hubs!)
What a perfect morning it was with my sweet family. It is times like this I will never forget. Then it was Christmas with my sis and my dad. There gift to Ava was a big hit. We had a nice lunch. I think we have started a new tradition.....Tamales. They were soooo good! And this is how we spent our night. Playing our new games. We had such a great time together. I hated to see the day end.
This weekend it is Christmas with the in-laws. So excited to see and spend time with them.

Merry Christmas from our family to yours.....

2010-12-25T05:19:00.000-08:00

Holly Jolly Christmas

2010-12-24T08:57:00.000-08:00

I have to say that my favorite thing about Christmas is getting to spend the time with my family and friends. We have been busy the last couple of days enjoying each other.

Up first was spending time with Ava's friends at her Christmas party at school. I got teared up watching her sing Jingle Bells on the stage. My sweetie is growing up.
Next was opening gifts with Ava's best friend and then her future husband. It sure helps that these girly's are my besties too!
Then it was spending time with my family. What is better than jumping in the car and taking a 2 hour ride to see Christmas lights? Maybe the dinner on the way home with the girl snoozing in the back and having a real conversation. Or maybe it was the nice dinner out and then going to see the live nativity the next night. I do have to say that the camel was really sweet.
Then it was off to see Santa. Jarred had a 10 dollar bet she would scream. I had 20 that she wouldn't. I won. She was a little shy but she liked Ho-Ho. And the good news is he is coming tonight.
We wish you all a Holly Jolly Christmas!

Christmas Cookies

2010-12-20T18:43:00.000-08:00

Life is so much sweeter with you.

Anniversary Recap

2010-12-15T14:36:00.000-08:00

Jarred + me + crab cakes + stone crab + yummy dessert = great date

Jarred took me out to a wonderful dinner last Friday night. For those of you who know me know that I have a true love affair with crab. We went to a restaurant called Trulucks. Oh man was it good. I feel so blessed to have a husband who I still get excited to go on dates with. I feel so lucky after 5 years of marriage we still do not run out of things to talk about. I feel complete when I think of the many more anniversaries to come. I am one lucky girl who is so in love!

Welcome

2010-12-11T18:59:00.000-08:00

Welcome to our home. Christmas time is my favorite season. I love the lights, trees, ornaments, the smells that go with it. I did simply a little this year. You may notice we are one tree short. I hope you will stay awhile and feel welcome.

First stop: Dinning room. Snowman themed. Holly Lenox China. Candles.
Second stop: Breakfast Area. Gingerbread themed. Fun plates. Fun pictures. Fun table setting.
Third Stop: Living Room. Fire in Mantle. Leopard Ribbon/Gold/Burgundy/Moss Green. Oh how I love animal print.

Fourth Stop: A room for a princess. Pink, Pink, and more pink. Butterflies. Pictures. Precious Moments.
Fifth Stop: Master room. My favorite tree. Photo tree. So many precious memories. (I think everyone needs this tree. It is so neat to look at the pictures from each year. Not only do I just stick picture frames in the tree but I so love finding the photo ornaments each year. This year I found a popcorn one and I added pictures from our much loved popcorn eating at target.)
I hope you have enjoyed. Come back and visit soon. We wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year!

5 years and counting.....

2010-12-10T13:50:00.001-08:00

5 years ago today I said I DO. I am so glad I did. I am one lucky girl.

Birthday Party for Jesus

2010-12-09T17:58:00.000-08:00

Happy birthday Jesus
I'm so glad its Christmas
All the tinsel and lights
And the presents are nice
But the real gift is You.

A perfect party= Story of Jesus + Songs + Crafts + Cupcakes.
What a wonderful way to celebrate the true meaning of the season!
Happy Birthday Jesus!

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-08T11:23:00.000-08:00

It is that time of year again. Oh yes, time for those much loved Christmas card pictures.

To say that the "Monster" (and me) wanted to kill him would be an
understatement!
On a different note, how cute is this:
Best Friends!

So much to be thankful for.....

2010-11-28T19:45:00.000-08:00

Where do I begin? I would say the biggest blessings are our family and friends. We are all so excited that this circle will be increasing next year. We will welcome two new additions and we could not be more happy. Baby Noah in April and Baby V in June. Our family and friends mean the world to us. I am so thankful that the Lord blessed us with the best. I know everyone probably thinks this but I am so very thankful this year for both. My world would not be complete without each and everyone of them!

We had a great Thanksgiving. We spent the morning with my family and then went to Jarred's parents. We celebrated Brooke and Nathan's birthdays. Brooke turned the big 3-0 and Nathan turned the big 3. The gifts were everything Thomas. Nathan is probably never wanting to see him again! We are so thankful for each of you. I hope you guys always know how special you are to us.
And of course there was a little baking going on. I do have to say that our Christmas Cut-out cookies turned out amazing. Nathan and Ava enjoyed eating theirs, they were easy to please. Just give them the plain cookie...who needs icing?
I am so thankful this holiday season. God has so blessed our family!

Break

2010-11-18T19:34:00.000-08:00

Well, I took a short break. Not because I did not have anything going on. Brooke and Susie came to town so we could all go to the nutcracker market. Oh. My. Word. is really all I can say. I can sum it up in just a few words. Crowed. Great Shopping. Carmel Apple. A lot of walking. Tired Feet.
Susie took Miss Priss to her house to spend a few days. Jarred and I had a few days off. We went out to eat, did a little shopping, and even got to see two movies! Our first movie date we had the entire movie theater to ourselves. We pretended we were in highschool. Back row. Hands meeting in popcorn. Kiss. (Laughing....)

I was late taking Ava to school last Monday so I had to pick the only item left for Thanksgiving Feast on Monday. Cut out cookies. Poop! I am not nearly as good as my SIL but I am glad she gave me a few tips. (She is amazing!) I thought I did pretty stinkin' good. I almost just thought I would buy them but I felt that would not be very mommyish.
Since I had a little extra time I thought I would start to put up a little Christmas. I put up the photo tree in our room and I let Ava help me put up her tree when she got home today. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas... My most favorite time of the year. Christmas shopping is over halfway done. I am going to try to do a little more this weekend.
I am so glad my sweet pea is home. I missed her terribly! It was quite around our house and it stayed clean! It is amazing how one little person can make such a huge mess. I will take the mess any day. I have loved on her all night. She probably thinks I am crazy.

Another reason for the blog break is my computer has been with the Geeks at Geek Squad. It had a virus and had to stay for a few days. I am glad to have it back.

Wow, this post is random.

Pumpkin Pie

2010-11-06T19:56:00.000-07:00

First: pick out a lovely baking pumpkin. This is the key because baking pumpkins are sweeter than regular pumpkins. Yes, I found this out in my research.
Hint: Go to a fun pumpkin patch. (This is what really makes it fun!)
Second: Cut, Cook, and scoop your pumpkin. (I had Jarred help me cut and scoop the pumpkin. Cut into smaller pieces. Place in microwave with a little water and cook for about 30 minutes. You will know when it is done because it will practically fall off the pumpkin. This kind of sounds weird but you know what I mean right? Then puree. It will look like the glop that comes from a can.)
Third: Follow this recipe for a yummy pumpkin pie~
* 1 (15 oz.) can pumpkin (about 2 cups of your real pumpkin)
* 1 (14 oz.) can Eagle Brand® Sweetened Condensed Milk
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust

HEAT oven to 425°F. Whisk pumpkin, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, spices and salt in medium bowl until smooth. Pour into crust.
BAKE 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F; bake an additional 35 to 40 minutes or until knife inserted 1-inch from crust comes out clean. Cool. Garnish as desired.
Oh yes, it is that easy.
Forth: Enjoy your pie with a nice side of Cool Whip.
Trust me when I say it is so much better this way. I know, it's a lot more work, but oh so worth it!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-03T05:28:00.000-07:00

Halloween Weekend Highlights

2010-11-01T18:14:00.000-07:00

What a fun weekend it was! Ava had a slumber party with Mimi so Jarred and I got to go on a date Friday night. It is a record, two in two weeks. Score! On Saturday I got to sleep in. Can I get a big Amen! I needed it. Too bad I could only sleep until 8:30. Ava had a treat at Mimi's, homemade chicken and dumplings. I hoped she would love them like we all do but I was not sure. Needless to day my girl now has a love affair with them. I guess I see lessons from Mam-maw and Mom soon. (Mom keep them coming for now!)

Then it was off to the Fall festival at our church. They did such a great job. There were games for the wee ones and games for the big ones. There were jump houses/slides of all sizes. There was a petting zoo which of course was a favorite. They even had a ventriloquist that put on the funnest of shows. Ava thought the monkey was hilarious.
Then off to Madison's first birthday party. It was a costume party which was such a fun idea. The theme was Minnie Mouse. We had the two cutest Minnie's for sure. Happy Birthday Maddy. You are so loved.
Saturday night we had a fall block party. It was fun to meet the neighbors that just moved in and the ones we have not had the opportunity to meet before. This was such a great idea and I hope we do it every year. I left a little early to meet up with Debra and blog friends for a movie. It was nice to hang with the girls!

Before we knew it Halloween was here. We had a fun afternoon painting pumpkins. My girl loves all things crafty. I have no idea where she gets that from?? We had a mess for sure. The most fun times are always the messiest times. I have to let go of control and know that it can be cleaned up. Yikes, with paint flying in all directions sometimes this is HARD.
Then off to Uncle Jimmy's and Aunt Lissa's. Lissa made the kiddos mummy dogs and we had yummy hamburgers. (I had a mummy dog too!) Then off to trick-or-treat. My Minnie loved it! She would walk right to the door and hold her pumpkin out for some candy. If given the opportunity to pick her own she would grab a handful. Ava, we will have to work on leaving some for the other kids next year. At the end of the night we tried to take her pumpkin so we could load up, this caused a huge fit. HUGE.
What a fun weekend. I love these moments that are spent with family and friends. To me, there is nothing more precious. I soaked in every minute!

Who you calling Mousey?

2010-10-31T18:42:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

Love,

Minnie

First day of school

2010-10-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

Ava was on the waiting list for a spot at Mother's Day Out at our church. We were thinking with 8 kiddos in front of her she would probably not be able to start until the first of the year. They had a spot open up and Ava got to start last Monday. The theme of the day was Pumpkins. Didn't she look cute?

Ava is in her Sunday School room at church so we went right in. They said she had a great first day! Her favorite part was the pumpkin patch they set up for the kids. She was so proud of her little pumpkin (She calls it "ball"). There are many more theme days coming that I know she will love. I am excited to see how many new things she will learn!

The Big 3-0

2010-10-27T19:14:00.000-07:00

Yikes. I am really 30. I don't feel any different. I agree with what my mom has always said, your here to see it or you not. I am happy to see it. I have so much to be happy about.

I am so lucky to work with the best girls and a guy. They know me so well. It was 2 dozen chocolate covered strawberries for me. All I can say was they were even better than they looked. You guys are awesome!!

My gift was the best. A new camera. Hubs you are the best, you know me so well. I think it was the best gift of all times. And the way you gave it to me, priceless.
I had a wonderful weekend with my favorite peeps. What could be better than a weekend all about you? (Yikes, I really said that!) But to be honest it was so nice. It started with a great date with hubs. We actually got to sit and talk alone for over 2 hours. It was so nice. It was my favorite part of the night. We had a great dinner and then went ice skating. Jarred is a swan, I am not! He made sure to point this out often.
<
Then Saturday it was a day of shopping. It started out with a morning at the spa. I feel asleep twice, it was awesome! I felt so relaxed and ready to tackle a day of shopping. We walked so much my shins hurt. (This really tells everyone how out of shape this 30 year old is). We ate at the Cheesecake factory which is always so incredibly good. It was Pumpkin Pecan cheesecake for me. After dinner it was more shopping and then a last minute decision to see a movie. We finally called it a night at 2am. Thanks girls for making me feel so special. I am so spoiled to have you in my life. You all sure know how to make a girl feel special. I am so blessed!
Okay, my big question is.....When do I turn 40? I love these big birthdays. Laughing......

Wonderful Weekend

2010-10-17T17:26:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to our sweet friend Aubree. You have been such a complete joy to us all. I remember when you took your very first breathe, I just can't believe you are already the big 1.
Your Momma did such a great job on your party. It was amazing. It was so neat that your whole family pitched in to make this day special for you. I hope you always know how much you are loved! (Andee, I hope you packed the stuff for us! I did tell you our theme is flowers for Ava's next birthday right? ha)

Who says that only kiddos like bounce houses? The girls thought their mommy's went crazy. We probably have, you have a way of doing this to us! I hate to see us when you guys are teenagers!

Then it was off to Jeff and Alecia's for pumpkins carving. What a fun idea. I just love my face in the pictures. We decided that a daddy's job should always be to get the pumpkin nice and clean for carving. Mine tuned out pretty good. I also was impressed that I was the only girl to finish!

I feel so blessed to have the best friends. Life is so much sweeter because each one of you!

Your the icing on my cupcake

2010-10-15T20:05:00.001-07:00

Great Wolf Lodge

2010-10-14T05:22:00.000-07:00

What. A. Fun. Place. A must do for everyone. What is a mom to do when summer is over and no more swimming for a water loving girl? Go here. What is better than a four-story interactive treehouse water fort offering 12 levels of super-soaking fun for the family? But watch out, we got caught a few times by the 1,000-gallon soaker bucket. Yikes. Warning: when in lazy river I would not recommend wearing your glasses. Lucky for us we had a pregnant mommy that filled her lungs and her babies to aid in finding them. (Brooke, your mom was so thankful! ha)
We were a sight to see. Should two adults know how to sit in a tube to ride the big girl water slides? Well, a very nice lifeguard probably got a laugh. Hey, we are mommies out of practice. We tried to explain but I don't think he cared. I also wondered what the other lifeguard thought when I fell out trying to get out? I know one person who laughed. Thanks Brooke!
Fun things about the lodge:

Dinner comes with wolf ears
Wear your PJs to story time
2 arcades
Mommy/Daddy spa and Kiddo spa
Magic wand game given at check-out
Ice cream parlor
One big wolf (I can't remember his name but Ava loved him. She kept trying to hold his hand)
Many kids activities (in October they had paint your own pumpkin)
Did I mention the indoor waterpark?

I think we will make this a family tradition. It is one I think the kiddos will really grow into loving. Nathan and Ava were still a little small to enjoy all the activities. Give them a few years and they will be riding the big slides. (I bet they will be able to get in the tube!) Next year it was decided to take the daddies. That way me and Brooke can practice sliding more.

Wild about animals

2010-10-12T06:10:00.000-07:00

That we are. We made our way from Aunt Brooke's to Fossil Rim ranch. It was an interesting way. A little advice for those of you who have iphones: the map feature may get you there but you may have to take many dirt roads. You may also need new tires when you arrive at your destination. But hey, at least we made it.I can not say enough good about this place. If you want an up close experience with animals this is the place for you. It was amazing. We got to feed giraffes and zebras. There were elk that would come right to the car. Oh and the cutest little ram babies that still had their umbilical cords attached. But beware the ostrich likes to get close. Real close. Ava thought this was the funnest thing. Nathan did not. Thanks for taking us Aunt Boon. It is a trip we will not forget.

Visit to Aunt Boon's

2010-10-11T08:23:00.000-07:00

Wow, it has been months since we have seen Brooke and Na-Na. That is just to long. Why are we always so busy? It was a great trip. I had a long weekend from work and we were able to go up on Wednesday and stay until Sunday. Brooke, thanks for having us and making our weekend together so special!Thursday was spend at Fossil Rim Ranch. Post to follow.
Friday was spent shopping and then we checked into The Great Wolf Lodge. Post to follow.

We went to Grapevine Mills mall. It was a great outlet mall. We shopped till we dropped. It seems that when the three of us are together we buy more. Why is that? I won't go into the story about our candy shopping. Let's just say that I think Brooke satisfied her pregnancy craving. Or so I hope! (Laughing Brooke!)

Shades of Red: Sick Style

2010-10-10T13:30:00.000-07:00

Red PopsiclesGirlfriend, YUCK! Maybe this is why your sick!

New Elmo house shoesLadybug pillow palThis is what a girl wants when sick.

I wonder where she gets her love of popsicles?
Not me, that's the last thing I want.
I have a good idea that she gets that from Daddy.
The Elmo shoes I could not resist for my sick girl.
We all want warm feet, especially when we are puny.
And last, pillow pals are the best! A soft place to rest your head.

Sick, Sick, and Sick

2010-10-09T18:37:00.000-07:00

Yep. Ava, Mommy, and then Daddy. We have all passed around a nasty little virus. This same virus was responsible for Ava's first trip to the hospital. It all started after our fun weekend of animals, shopping, and swimming. (More to come)My poor baby has been sick for a week. It started last Sunday and continued to get worse throughout the week. After two trips to the doctor it was decided that a trip to the hospital was needed. This baby was dehydrated. This is Ava's first time of really being sick and sick she was. It was so hard for me to see her this sick and not getting better. It was even harder to console her as she got an IV and had her blood taken. I just keep praying for those parents who make many trips to the hospital with sick kids. Lord, please give them the strength.The virus was passed to Jarred on Friday. Poor thing was a trooper and would not hear of us going to the hospital alone. We made quite the picture. In our triage room Jarred was feeling so bad he stretched out for a quick nap on the floor. Yes, the hard floor. Poor guy. I think the nurses thought he may be a little crazy, but I always came to his defense and explained that he had been sick all day. He probably should have stayed home, but I was glad for his strength. It is hard to watch my sweet girl in pain. But, I think he was just as shaken. At one point through many screams I heard him praying Jesus, Jesus, Jesus. Hubby, you amaze me! Thanks for being such a good dad.
I thank everyone for your prayers. Please pray for complete healing for our whole house. I am ready for a well family.

Our weekend

2010-09-27T20:15:00.000-07:00

First off, I am so glad fall is here. Oh how we missed you. Do you think maybe you could stay awhile? I would love to drink my hot tea without sweating.

Happy Birthday to our dear friend Lincoln. Little L your party was awesome. Your mommy worked so hard to throw her "chunky monkey" the perfect party. Ava and I had a blast. Thanks for letting us bounce.If you like to talk to tomatoes, If a squash can make you smile.....
My girl loves to do both. Bob and Larry, you are her favorite. She loved getting to see you live. She danced, clapped, and jumped for you. Her favorite song you guys played was the hair brush song. Oh where is my hair brush, oh where is my hair brush.....she is secretly hoping her hair will grow a little faster and she will be actually able to use a hair brush. Thanks for the great night Bob and Larry. She can't wait to see you again.
We were glad Andee and Aubree could go. We think Aubree is going to be a big fan too!The girls can't wait to jam to their new CDs. What is better than Veggie Tales Worship and 80s songs?