Adventures with Kati Ann & Kie

Christmas in Texas

2011-12-29T18:55:00.004-06:00

We had such a nice time in Texas this year celebrating Christmas with our families. We got to spend more relaxed time with our families than we have in the past. We started our time in Carthage with the Allens. Kie & Poppa fell even more in love with each other and we enjoyed some wonderful Texas BBQ as is our yearly tradition! It was so fun to just play and hang out.

After spending time in Carthage we headed to Bryan to be with the Cargill's. We got to see our large extended family and got to see my parents new house on the ranch for the first time. It again was nice to just enjoy being together. It was different not being in Kilgore but it was much more important to be with the ones we love no matter where that was.

And after all the travel we were exhausted. Kati Ann makes it pretty clear how all 4 of us felt!

Christmas cheer

2011-12-16T16:08:00.002-06:00

It is so hard for me to believe that we have a 4.5 year old that is so grown up. We went this week to her Kati Ann sing in her Christmas program with the other 4 year old classes at her preschool. She knows the songs so well and sings all the time. I love to hear her tell the Christmas story complete with "Jofus" and "the Wizzmen". She definitely offers lots of Christmas cheer as we see Christmas through her eyes. It is a stark reminder that Christmas really is the celebration of a birthday and we love to party in honor of a baby that changed everything.

A Little Procedure

2011-12-16T15:56:00.002-06:00

Around July, I noticed a "bump" behind Kie's right ear while he was sick. It wasn't something I thought was normal but thought it might have something to do with him being sick. It kinda felt like a swollen gland but was not where you would usually feel for one when your sick. I monitored it and it never went away. We visited 2 general physicians and finally the ENT about it. The recommendation was to have it removed. Jared & I wrestled with if that was the right thing to do. We just weren't sure that putting him under and cutting on him was the best move. We prayed and sought further medical advice and finally decided to go forward with the surgery.

And we are so glad we did. We had the surgery at Huntsville Hospital and it was such a pleasant experience as you can see from him watching the Disney Channel in his little gown. He had the surgery on a Monday and I had made arrangements to not do much for the week. However by Tuesday morning he was better than before. Kie has felt remarkably better since his surgery and we are blessed to have 2 healthy children

Thanksgiving in Oklahoma

2011-12-16T15:46:00.004-06:00

Every couple of years, we make the drive (or flight) to Northeast Oklahoma to visit Jared's grandmother for Thanksgiving. It was the first time for Grandma Joan to meet Kie and Jared's parents met us there.

Grandma Joan lives in a fabulous duplex connected with the Baptist assisted living village. Right outside her back door is a little playground. We were blessed with wonderful weather that allowed us to spend lots of time outside enjoying the playground.

We also enjoyed some delicious food! Grandma is some kind of cook and it was good to see her.

A "Kati Ann"

2011-11-18T15:10:00.003-06:00

Can you guess from the pictures what a "Kati Ann" is?

A "Kati Ann" is a recently coined phrase by a little girl in one of Kati Ann's classes. A little girl named Kendall was getting ready to go to church and informed her mom, "I want a Kati Ann." The mom wasn't really familiar with who Kati Ann was and was slightly confused. "What is a Kati Ann?" asked the mother. She quickly learned that a "Kati Ann" was when you wear your hair on the top of your head! I thought this was hilarious! Trend-setting at four...who knew?

Fall Retreat 2011

2011-11-07T11:30:00.003-06:00

Every fall we get the opportunity to hang out with Jared's group at Fall Retreat! We don't often get to do things with Jared's group as a whole family because I'm involved with my own ministry and there are only a handful of things small children can do! But we get to hang out at Fall Retreat. In the past, we have just gone for part of the day on Saturday. This year, we went Friday night and Saturday morning. It was fun getting to eat and hang out with the "big kids." We even slept in a cabin and had a great time! Its fun to make memories in student ministry together!

A boy that loves his ball!

My precious girl that just keeps getting big!

Future drummer?

Halloween 2011

2011-11-02T09:19:00.005-05:00

So, in case you hadn't guessed, we are officially eaten up with the Princesses at our house, specifically Cinderella. Kati Ann dressed up as Cinderella for Halloween and really wanted Kie to be her "Prince Charming". As precious as that would have been, Prince Charming costumes are out of our price range for a one night event in the parking lot of the church! So, instead we went for Gus, Cinderella's mouse! I thought they were adorable! Here's just some of the sweet pictures that we had!

Kati Ann just hopped up there and immediately posed for her picture! What a diva!

Funnies

2011-10-26T10:17:00.004-05:00

I try to remember to write down the funny things Kati Ann says so I won't forget.

The other day we were just sitting in the living room playing and Kati Ann looked at me and said, "Mom, I need a husband."

I replied, "You do?" thinking to myself...oh, man...already?

She said, "yeah, my princesses don't have anyone to marry."

I sighed in relief.

Another day, I was helping Kati Ann get ready for bed and she was acting crazy (as usual) and I opened my mouth to say, "You're such a silly girl!" As I did, I got out "You're such a..." and she finished my sentence with "...a genius!" I couldn't help but laugh. She's 4, People! How does she know what a genius is?

Even at 31, I struggle with acne and had a blemish on my face while we were at Disney. She said, "Mom, what's that on your face?" I replied, "a pimple". She said, "a nipple?" Jared and I both tried to clarify because I can just hear her going to tell her Sunday School teacher that her mom has a "nipple on her face."

Oh, the joys of parenthood.

Disney

2011-10-26T10:12:00.000-05:00

What an adventure! We had the wonderful opportunity of taking our sweet 4 year old to Disney World last week. It was such a special time for several reasons. First of all, it was just Jared, Kati Ann and myself. Kie spent the week with GanGan and BobBob on the ranch in Texas and we got to spend some individualized time with our sweet girl. Second of all, seeing Disney through the eyes of a 4-year old is so magical. Kati Ann's favorite parts were meeting the characters and especially the princesses. It is a week that we will cherish the memories of forever.

Master of Disaster

2011-10-06T17:00:00.002-05:00

Disclaimer: This post is just to be funny...I cherish every minute with kids and know that they will be grown before I turn around. I would fold the same load of laundry as many times as necessary to enjoy the blessings God has given me!

Ever wonder why moms of small children feel overwhelmed or like they just can't quite keep up? Well, Kie is a perfect example of undoing all of my doing. You know...really...I try to stay on top of things. I do laundry almost every day and I try to fold it that same day. It doesn't always get put away that day but I'm trying, folks. So, I dutifully folded a load of laundry while Kie was taking a nap and the basket was sitting on the living room floor. Kie got up, we ran to the grocery store and then came home and I started dinner. While I was starting dinner. Kie thought it would be fun to play with the laundry basket. He began dragging around and throwing out the folded clothes as he went, much like a flower girl tosses her flower petals. He made a trail of clothes and finally got them all out so he could turn over the basket and play on top of it! What fun! :/

The Trail of Kie

A Momma Break

2011-10-01T15:13:00.003-05:00

This past weekend, I had a wonderful opportunity to enjoy some of my favorite ladies as well being refreshed and become better equipped as a mom. I went the first annual .MOM conference put on by Lifeway. It was in Birmingham and I went with some of my dear friends that I don't get to hang out with nearly enough. It was an amazing time with excellent speakers and powerful worship.

However, I have to take a minute to describe to you the highlight of the whole event for me! THE DUGGARS WERE THERE! Okay, before you roll your eyes, I need to expound. I have periodically watch the TV series 17, 18, or 19 Kids and Counting and enjoyed it. I'm not at all a "super-fan." Though, I've watched Josh and Anna get married and actually seen Anna birth both of her babies (on TV of course). I have never considered myself very impressed with "celebrities" or one to be star struck but I was. I was so excited to see them and for some reason they didn't seem to have the same reaction to seeing me. I mean, I felt like we were friends. I should be walking up to Anna saying "Hey girl, how are the kids?" I was with her when she birthed them, remember? I did walk up and talk to one of them but to be honest I felt too much like a creeper to have my picture taken with them. I mean, you don't do that with friends, right? Good friends don't have to take their pictures with each other especially when all those other people are!

New Orleans

2011-10-01T14:38:00.009-05:00

Some of you may or may not know that Jared is working on his Doctorate at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and actually almost done with it. He had a class in New Orleans during the middle of September and so we decided to make a little family adventure out of it. I had never been to New Orleans so it was a fun, new experience for me as well.

Most of our time there was spent just the kids and I since Jared was in class but it was great to get to see him when he was out of class. We went first to Jared's "school".

The kids explored and got to enjoy seeing Daddy's "school church" as Kati Ann called it.

After checking out the seminary, the kids and I hit the zoo. It was such a good zoo and we had so much fun. I know you've seen these animals in pictures before but I took these pictures with my phone! That's how close we got! We had so much fun.

No connection to University of Alabama but the elephants have always been Kati Ann's favorite

My favorite were these gorgeous tigers. It was like they were posing for us!

The lazy jaguar!

Yes, you are seeing correctly. She's touching the snake!

Unique to the swamps of Louisiana is the white alligator. Kati Ann & I both thought they were really cool.

The petting zoo was a favorite for both of our kids.

Kie finally had all the fun he could handle!

Dirt

2011-09-13T10:48:00.002-05:00

We live in a neighborhood under construction. Our neighborhood has 170 lots and we were the 10th house so, we've lived with construction since the beginning and will continue to for quite a while. They are finally building a house right next door to us. They had to bring in about 8 truck loads of dirt for this lot. After they grated it, the kids discovered it was a great place to take a shovel and dig. They wanted to sit in the clean grass but dig in the dirty dirt. It was good "dirty" fun!

The Letter "O"

2011-09-13T10:43:00.002-05:00

This week, Kati Ann's class studied the letter "O". Kati Ann was supposed to bring a snack for the whole class that started with "O" so we decided to my Octupuses. It was a fun project that Kati Ann could help with. Kati Ann put the legs on the bodies and I drew on the faces. It was lots of fun.

Morning at the Park

2011-09-13T10:42:00.002-05:00

We had a beautiful morning of weather and it was a perfect day to go to the park. Its fun with both kids big enough to really enjoy playing. As soon as we pulled up to the park, Kie about came out of his seat with excitement.

In the Dog House

2011-09-13T10:34:00.004-05:00

We went over to some of our sweet friend's house and they have a large dog with a large crate. Kie discovered the crate and just climbed on in. Honor, the dog, didn't know what to think about a little boy in his house!

Cap Day

2011-09-13T10:31:00.001-05:00

Last week, they studied the letter C at school and had Cap Day. Here is a cute girl with her cap.

A Busy Boy

2011-09-07T18:09:00.002-05:00

I just thought this was a cute look into Kie's life of playing right now. He loves balls and outside. He really loves anything "boy". He is so fun and it looks like he'll be good at hiding eggs for Easter!

A Glimpse into the Future

2011-09-07T17:58:00.002-05:00

My cousin, John's wife caught this chilling photo at my cousin, David's wedding. Jared officiated the wedding where Kati Ann was the flower girl. It was hard not to think of what lies ahead with these two standing together at the wedding.

Before, I married Jared I prayed for a man like my daddy. And I married one that shares many admirable characteristics with my daddy. My prayer is that Kati Ann will one day pray a similar prayer to marry someone like her own daddy. She would be very blessed if she married someone like her daddy!

Cute as a Cupcake

2011-09-07T17:45:00.001-05:00

Kie loves cupcakes...well who doesn't? It is so fun to watch him eating cupcakes because it becomes a sport in which he DIVES into the cupcake. Its adorable!

A Nail Tale

2011-08-20T12:11:00.002-05:00

As my mom likes to say, "Where there is a Cargill, there is a story" and I often prove that statement to be true.

So, I have a certain place that I like to go get pedicures. It is owned by a sweet little Asian couple and they are the only 2 people that work there. The man does pedicures and the woman does manicures.

One day, I was getting a pedicure by the nice Asian man when this guy (we'll call him "Body Builder Guy") walks in and sits down next to the Asian man. He starts a friendly conversation in which they include me in on. They knew each other from the gym. The Body Builder guy tells me that he does pedicures and has done them since he was 14! Needless to say, I was surprised. He continued to sit there and chat it up. Some other customers come in and sit down to get pedicures and Body Builder guy makes himself right at home and starts their water and gets their massage chair going. Let me remind you, he doesn't work there! The Asian man finishes my feet except for painting my toenails and Body Builder guy offers to paint them for his Asian friend so the Asian man could move on to another customer. This put the Asian man in an awkward situation. He didn't want to be rude to the Body Builder guy but again...he didn't work there! So, I tried to ease the situation but telling him that would be okay and he actually did a pretty good job.

But how often do you go get a pedicure and it goes like this?

First Day of School

2011-08-20T10:57:00.002-05:00

This week was the beginning of the school year for the Allen family. Our kids go to the preschool at our church and you go the number of mornings that you are years old. So, since Kie is one, he starts going one mornings a week. Kati Ann goes four!

Kie started on Wednesday. Though, he still has a hard time staying awake all morning, he did great!

Kati Ann started on Monday. As she said, "I had a really good day inside but outside was only a little good." She took a pretty big fall on the playground that knocked the wind out of her and hurt her back but after she got home and got some Tylenol and some TLC all was well.

Its hard to believe that Kati Ann is old enough to be at preschool 4 mornings a week. I've said I'm certainly glad they work us into going to school because by the time she's in Kindegarten, I might be okay with getting everyone out of the house 5 mornings a week!! Four mornings almost killed me this week :)!

Dentist

2011-08-20T10:55:00.002-05:00

I took Kati Ann to the dentist for the first time this summer. She did really well having her teeth cleaned but we discovered that she had 2 cavities. So, we had to go back to have them filled. She really handled the pain well, she just got tired of them messing around in her mouth.

Colorful

2011-08-20T10:52:00.003-05:00

Having a boy has really been eye-opening for me. Kie is always into everything and of course most of it goes in his mouth. In a matter of one week, he had eaten a green crayon and figured out how to take the lids off markers and ate black crayola marker.

Cute Kids

2011-08-20T10:49:00.001-05:00

I couldn't resist. They are as sweet as they are cute! I <3 these kids so much!

Feathers

2011-08-20T10:46:00.002-05:00

Our kids have a neat opportunity to be around "kids" much older than them ALOT. Several of our "big kids" have feathers in their hair and Kati Ann thought it was so cool. She asked me if she could have some and when their was a Groupon offered for 1/2 off feathers, I thought it was a good opportunity for her to get some. So, we went and got her 3 feathers, pink, blue and purple in her hair. She was so proud and the teenage girls thought she was super-cool. It was fun!

Jamaica

2011-08-20T10:37:00.003-05:00

After 9 years of marriage, 2 master degrees, 3 churches, 5 houses and 2 kids, Jared & I decided we needed a vacation. We really haven't had the opportunity to vacation before, though we've dreamed of doing it. We planned a vacation to Jamaica an entire year in advance and were like kids waiting for Christmas for our vacation! We were so excited. We enjoyed 5 days in beautiful Jamaica just relaxing, eating delicious food, reading books and we even hiked Dunn River Falls! It was a cherished time that we would love to repeat. Hopefully, it won't be another 9 years.

Summer Project

2011-08-20T10:17:00.004-05:00

Before

After

This summer was busy, as usual, for two parents in student ministry but we found time to do a fun project of painting Kati Ann's bedroom furniture pink and the bottom half of her wall blue. Her furniture is the bedroom furniture I had growing up so it was ready for a bit of a change. We had fun doing it and she loves it!

Birthday Season

2011-05-03T20:22:00.008-05:00

Between the dates of April 13 and May 8, all 4 of us celebrate our birthdays! This year we celebrated both of the kids birthday in Texas. There were lots of parties! We began with a party in Carthage at MiMi & Poppa's. Kie had his first sugar and loved the cupcake that MiMi made.

We then headed to Bryan and celebrated with the Cargill family. We had so much fun, including a belated Easter Egg Hunt, kite flying, bunny cake and presents. It was quite the celebration!

It is hard for me to believe that I have a four and one year old! I'm so thankful for my sweet babies and the opportunity to be their mom! Four years ago, my life changed dramatically when we added Kati Ann and then again a year ago with the introduction of Kie. I couldn't be more blessed. Happy Birthday to my sweet kiddos!

Baseball Panties

2011-04-13T09:57:00.002-05:00

KA was getting ready for bed the other night and was wearing a shirt that looked like a baseball jersey. I told her to go get some panties and she insisted on wearing "baseball panties". Well, we don't have baseball panties but that didn't matter to her...she wanted to wear "baseball panties". So, being the problem solver that he is, Jared found a pair of white panties, got a marker and made some "baseball panties". She was quite proud! What would we do without Daddies? LOL!

Atlanta

2011-04-11T11:11:00.003-05:00

So, this weekend Jared took his students to Atlanta for a conference and we decided to tag along. It ended up that we really didn't see them almost at all but it was still fun. I took the kids to the Children's Museum in Atlanta. Both kids had a blast (well, so did I)!

Friends are Fun

2011-03-18T14:48:00.001-05:00

We had the privilege of having one of Kati Ann's friends, Addison, come spend the morning with us so Addison's mom (who just had a new baby) could have a little break and have only 2 kids instead of 3 for the morning! We had so much fun. There was lots of pretend, dress up, swinging on the playset, baking and more. Kati Ann & Addison play so well together that it is a pleasure to have Addison over.

Two sweet girls

More dough was eaten than baked :)

Addison told me she was a "Princess Cook"

Pretending they were at the beach with their feet in the sand

Surprise!

2011-03-07T20:14:00.000-06:00

I should probably start by saying that I have the most amazing parents!! They have taught me so much about making family a priority. Now to the fun story!

So, last week was Dr. Suess week at Kati Ann's school. My parents were planning on coming on Thursday afternoon after Kati Ann's nap. However, I found out that different parents were coming into read Dr. Suess books to Kati Ann's class throughout the week so I asked my parents if they thought they could come earlier and surprise Kati Ann by reading to her class. So, they went to all the trouble of leaving a day earlier and getting their things together so they could make the 10 hour drive to be at Kati Ann's school Thursday morning. She had no idea they were even coming to Huntsville much less coming to school and she was so pleased and surprised when they came and GanGan read a book to her class. What a special memory we all made.

attacking GanGan & BobBob when she saw them for the first time

listening to the story

Kie

2011-03-07T20:00:00.000-06:00

So, there is so much to say because it has been FOREVER since I've blogged.

Kie is now 10 months old. He weighs 22 lbs, doesn't crawl but scoots everywhere on his bottom. He has had a rough couple of months (which is why you haven't heard from me much!) He has had continual ear infections since Christmas and finally got tubes today! He was a real trooper and did great.

These pictures were taken by Charlotte this weekend when he stayed with her while we were gone to Chicago. She took him to a bridal shower where he stole the show!

A Glimpse Into My Future

2011-02-25T15:30:00.003-06:00

Yesterday, Kati Ann went to the movies...by herself...sort of. Charlotte invited Kati Ann to a movie and she went without us. I gave her money and dropped her off at the theatre to see Gnomio and Juliet. As I drove her to the theatre, I had a small glimpse into my future. She will be 15 before I turn around and I'll be dropping her off somewhere so she can hang out with her friends. Thanks Charlotte, for taking me there so quickly!! LOL!

Just some pictures from Christmas

2011-01-11T19:29:00.005-06:00

Life is currently to a point that I don't really have time to blog. I miss it and hope to do better at some point but for now the best I can do is just post a few pictures.

8 month Old, Kie

2011-01-01T12:35:00.006-06:00

On the final day before starting back home from our Christmas Tour of Texas, we stopped at my parents while they were still in Bryan and did a little laundry and let Kati Ann rest because she had come down with an ear infection. Kie helped me with the laundry. He also really enjoys the mirrored wall at my parents. I caught a little video of him looking at himself! This picture and video were actually taken on Kie's 8 month birthday. I ended up taking him to the doctor three days later and he weighs a whopping 21lbs!!

He has become quite an eater! He loves almost any food I give him now. He has three teeth and one more on the way. He still nurses about 4 times a day. He loves to play and laugh at Kati Ann. We love having him in our family.
\

Date Nite with Kati Ann

2011-01-01T12:28:00.002-06:00

On December 14, 2010, we had a fun date night with Kati Ann. It was just the 3 of us just like old times. We got a babysitter for Kie and took Kati Ann to eat at Red Robin and then to the Monaco to see Veggietales version of "Its a Wonderful Life" called "The Meaning of Life". We finished the night with a chocolate treat at The Chocolate Crocodile. It was a really special night.

Kie also enjoyed a fun night with one of his biggest fans, Tim Grider. Tim is one of my youth leaders and loves to hang out with Kie. It was our first time to use a guy babysitter and Tim did a great job!

Party Bacon

2010-12-11T15:20:00.003-06:00

I make this every year for the TNT Christmas party.

Party Bacon

1 lb bacon

3 eggs

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

1 1/2 tsp dry mustard

3 1/2 tsp vinegar

1/2 box crackers (crushed)

Beat dry mixture in with eggs and vinegar. Dip bacon and roll in cracker crumbs. Cook on cookie sheet for 20 minutes at 350 degrees.

Decorating for Christmas

2010-12-08T19:08:00.002-06:00

We were home for Thanksgiving this year and so we were excited to begin decorating for Christmas the day after Thanksgiving. Jared enjoys hitting the Black Friday deals. This year one of his the deals was a new Christmas tree. Kati Ann loved helping him put it up and helping me put on the ornaments. We had so much fun decorating together!

7 Months

2010-12-08T19:04:00.003-06:00

I'm so far behind that I've neglected the 7 month post. Kie turned 7 months on November 27. He is saying "mama" alot. He loves to eat sweet potatoes, applesauce, bananas and pears. He tolerates carrots & squash. He has finally come around with the cereal and tolerates it some too but he doesn't just love it!

Kie is such a sweetie. He loves to laugh and watch Kati Ann. It is hard to imagine what our life was like before he came along.

Early Christmas Present

2010-12-08T14:45:00.002-06:00

Christmas came a little early this year at our house. Jared & I had decided we wanted to get the kids a playset for Christmas. We had decided how much we wanted to spend and that meant we were going to have to get a used one. We searched Craigslist and finally found one that wasn't sold before we ever got to it. So on Thanksgiving day, Jared & I went and looked at it. It was well-used but with a little elbow grease we felt like it would work. So, we bought it.

The Saturday after Thanksgiving, we spent the day painting and putting together our "new" playset. Jared & I worked super hard while the kids napped to finish it up so that there was a little time to play on it. Unfortunately only one child woke up in time to play on it!! The other had a REALLY long nap!

KA worked hard to make her playset look nice!

Check out those "work/painting" clothes!

Fallen Off the Planet

2010-12-08T10:53:00.002-06:00

I know you must think that I've fallen off the planet. Where I have I been? Well, since we got home from Texas on November 15th, I've been trying my best to keep up. I'm not sure what happened but I can't seem to get a handle on IT! We've been very busy with company and a staff retreat and I have lots to blog about so be ready! Here it comes!

A Honorary Member of the Girls' Club

2010-11-17T11:39:00.005-06:00

While we were in Texas last week, it worked out for me to go on the annual shopping trip that the ladies in my family enjoy going on. I was very faithful to go before we moved to Alabama so it was such a treat for me to get to go. However, since I'm still nursing Kie, he went as a honorary member. We all agreed that though he was an angel...this would be his last trip! It is girls only!!

My VERY favorite girls in the world!

Shopping will wear you out!!

He had to have a little siesta along the way!

This little man was such a trooper!

He just had fun looking around and loving on all the girls!

A Cute 6 Month Old

2010-11-10T20:06:00.001-06:00

Middle School Fall Retreat 2010

2010-11-10T19:27:00.004-06:00

Every year since we've been in Huntsville, Kati Ann & I have gone to Fall Retreat with Jared. Here is the post from 2007 and 2008 (apparently I didn't blog about 2009). However, this year, with two kids, I decided it was just too much for me to do "alone" and decided we would just go visit for part of the day on Saturday. Kati Ann had so much fun with the "big kids". She told me she wanted to do it again. She is so comfortable with the students. She just gets right in the middle of them and doesn't feel the need to hang on to me. It is very fun to share in Jared's ministry as a family. It is a rare happening for us with me usually working at the same time as Jared so it is a special treat. It was fun to introduce Kie to this fun annual tradition.

Having fun!

Eating lunch with the "big kids"

My two favorite boys!

A Cinderella Story

2010-11-02T19:50:00.008-05:00

One VERY excited little girl!

About 6 months ago, Kati Ann began telling me that Cinderella was going to come to her house. I don't know where she got the idea but every once in awhile she would bring it up again. So, when we found out that one of our sweet students, Abbie Worley, was dressing as Cinderella for Halloween, I asked her if she would come to our house as Cinderella for Kati Ann. She was supposed to come the week before Halloween but due to a tornado our plans changed and she wasn't able to come until after Halloween.
Kati Ann saw "Cinderella" at the Fall Festival and I had her invite Cinderella over. It was very sweet having her ask Cinderella to come play. Cinderella came over and played with Kati Ann for about 45 minutes. She brought her a Cinderella Christmas ornament and a Gigi's Princess cupcake. It was so sweet. Kati Ann loved playing and showing Cinderella all of her toys!
We are so blessed to have such sweet people in our lives that would love our children the way they do.
I told Jared as Abbie sat and played with her that there can't be too many little girls that have Cinderella actually come to their house and play!

putting together a Cinderella puzzle

playing Potato Heads & putting together Princess Potato!

Trick or Treat!

2010-10-30T19:58:00.006-05:00

Our church puts on a fantastic Fall Festival every year. Of course the older Kati Ann gets the more she enjoys it! It was fun to dress both kids up in coordinating costumes as the Princess and the Frog. There was lots to do but the highlight was seeing Belle and Cinderella. Kati Ann was enamored by Cinderella. When we got home from the Fall Festival and had supper, Kati Ann thanked God that Belle and Cinderella were there! It was precious!

the best picture we could get with Kati Ann & her princesses!

Kati Ann & Kie with their friend, Reagan aka Snow White

playing on one of the inflatables!

Oh, Where is My Hairbrush?

2010-10-30T19:50:00.005-05:00

It doesn't always happen but sometimes Jared will win something at a golf tournament that we all get to enjoy and this was one of those times. Jared won tickets to Veggie Tales LIVE at a Pastor's Golf Tournament. We went thinking we had general admission tickets but got there to find out with had "Gold Circle" tickets which put us on the 2nd row and gave us an opportunity to meet Bob & Larry after the show. It was lots of fun even if Kati Ann likes to call them "Tom & Jerry" instead of "Bob & Larry"!!

Meeting Bob & Larry after the show!

Scarecrow Party

2010-10-29T19:54:00.002-05:00

Thursday was Kati Ann's first school party. Jared, Kie and I all came and ate lunch with Kati Ann, did a craft and got to hear her class perform songs for the parents. It was so fun to see her in her "world". She so enjoyed sharing it with us as well.

October 27-6 Months and MaMa's 1st Birthday with Jesus

2010-10-29T18:55:00.007-05:00

This past Wednesday marked Kie's 6 month birthday! I can't believe that my "new" baby is 6 months old. He is such a joy to our lives. He has been teething this week so he hasn't been his usual happy self but still is such a sweetie.

At 6 months:

-he is sitting up on his own

-smiling at everyone and laughing

-starting solids for the first time (so far cereal isn't a favorite)

-using the "mmmm" sound (He said "Muh, Muh" and Kati Ann said that he said "Momma" so we're counting it)

-very attached to his momma...he'll deal with someone else but Momma is his preference.

.....................................................................................................

Wednesday was also my grandmother's 84th birthday but her first birthday with Jesus. I know that I am grieving my loss. I find myself thinking of things she would enjoy or telling Kati Ann something about MaMa (like that she could wiggle her ears)! Though I grieve my loss, I rejoice in her gain!

Bible Study

2010-10-20T09:00:00.002-05:00

Since being in Huntsville, I've attended a Thursday morning Bible Study with my friend, Kim. However, this year with having a brand new baby, I just decided it was too much for me to try to fit in one more thing in my schedule (with a new baby and a ministry). I was really sad because I loved Thursday morning Bible Study. We've done some really good studies. So, I decided to do one on my own. I've done this before and enjoyed it but I wanted to share with you this particular study. I'm taking it REALLY slowly but have gotten so much out of it. Every time I sit down with it I felt like I've been to a revival service. God has really used this study in my life and I just wanted to point it out to anyone that might be looking for a study! This one is fantastic!

The B-I-B-L-E. Yes, that's the Book for Me

2010-10-20T08:55:00.003-05:00

Today was picture day at KA's preschool and I was trying to get a picture of Kati Ann in her outfit before she went to school but this is what she did when I tried to get her to take a picture. I didn't mind too much because this is what I got instead! (Please excuse the messy room...I have two small children, enough said) Good luck to that photographer today!!

Just Some Things I've been Thinking About

2010-10-18T20:50:00.006-05:00

This post really has no significant purpose other than to share some things that I've been thinking about or experienced that are totally random:

1. So, every morning on my way to take Kati Ann to preschool, we see this woman walking her dog in a stroller. I mean, what? Are the dog's legs broken? Its a dog...let the dog walk!

2. The other day I was walking past the playground at KA's preschool (its right next to the house where Jared offices) and a bunch of 4 year olds were singing, "We all live in a yellow submarine!" at the top of their lungs. I thought that was Fantastic! I mean, they're four. Where do they get this stuff? If its from their preschool teacher, that teacher ROCKS!

3. I'm driving down the road and see a campaign sign to elect some person as Coroner. I thought to myself, "Is that really a position that is chosen by popularity? Shouldn't that be something that someone is hired based on their credentials and chosen by someone that actually understands what those credentials mean? How many people in the general public actually know what kind of credentials a Coroner should have?" Please feel free to enlighten me on this one. If there is some reason that we elect a Coroner that I'm missing please let me know.

There you go...just some thoughts that were crossing my mind!

Future Heirloom?

2010-10-16T12:33:00.004-05:00

Jared & I had the most fun date last night. We went to a "couples" painting class. The class is designed for the general public and on couples nights you paint canvases that are meant to hang together. We had a really good time. After the evening was over, I thought about what those paintings might represent one day. I hope there comes a day when our children will be able to see these paintings hanging on the wall and know how much their parents love each other. They will remember how their daddy was always intentional about "dating" their momma. I hope these paintings will hang in one of their homes one day as a reminder of the love their parents shared that translated into a love for them. Maybe its wishful thinking to think these paintings will mean that much to them but that's what they will represent for me. I will hang them on our wall and as I walk by them be reminded how blessed I am to be married to my best friend and how together we are unfolding the story God has written for our lives!

Our painting (Jared's on the left, Bobi Ann's on the right)

The two of us in our smocks!

Tate Farms

2010-10-08T20:20:00.005-05:00

It has admittedly been a rough week. This week was Fall Break in Huntsville which meant no preschool for Kati Ann and a real change in routine for us. On top of no preschool, illness hit our house HARD. Jared came down with what we believe was the flu and after a visit to the doctor he continued to seriously struggle. Kati Ann and I both have fought a yucky cough all week and quite frankly, its been a LONG week.

Jared was finally feeling much better today so we decided to check out Tate Farms about 45 minutes from our house. We've talked about going years past but I wanted to make sure Kati Ann was really ready to enjoy it and without a doubt, she was!! It was more fun! We all needed the outing. It was good for our spirits!

Chicken & Asparagus Bundles

2010-10-07T19:17:00.005-05:00

I might or might not have blogged about this except for the fact that Jared told me before we ate that I should take a picture of this meal because it looked so good. I was actually not sure whether it would be as good as he hoped but it was so I decided to share. This is once again one of our meals from E-MEALZ Easy Meals for Busy and Frugal Families. I tweaked it a bit but it was absolutely delicious!

Ingredients:

Asparagus spears, trimmed & lightly steamed (I steamed the asparagus but think it might be good to try it without steaming them first)

(1/3 c mayonnaise, 1 t dried tarragon, 1 1/2 t Dijon mustard (I used honey mustard), 1/2 t garlic salt, toothpicks)

3/4 lbs split chicken breast – sliced off the bone,

pounded thin, need 3 pieces (I just used chicken breasts)

4 oz bag Knorr creamy garlic shells

sliced bacon

1/2 package of raspberries

Instructions:

Mix mayo, tarragon, mustard & garlic salt & divide

evenly onto the center of each breast and roll up. Place 3

asparagus spears on top of each breast, wrap in bacon and secure w/ toothpicks.

Bake 30 min @ 350.

Make pasta according to package directions.

Wash and serve raspberries on the side.

My Bald Boys

2010-10-06T16:59:00.003-05:00

I sat Kie on top of Jared & he leaned over, laid down and stayed this way for quite a while. So sweet!

Genesis 1:1 minus the "Genesis" Part

2010-09-28T13:13:00.000-05:00

5 Month Stats

2010-09-28T13:10:00.002-05:00

After going to the doctor & getting measured & vaccinated the results are in:

Length: 27'=75-90%

Weight: 17lbs 8oz=50-75%

Head Circumference: 18"=above 95%

5 Months Old

2010-09-27T20:11:00.001-05:00

Happy 5 Month Old Birthday to Kie-Man! We go tomorrow to get shots and stats so we'll keep you posted!

My Favorite Days

2010-09-25T19:43:00.003-05:00

Today was one of my favorite kind of days. It was a wonderful Saturday where no one had to be anywhere all day and the four of us got to spend the whole day together.

Kati Ann was up at 4 a.m. (that was not the highlight of the day) and couldn't go back to sleep. So, we were up and moving early. I had some things to drop off for a consignment sale and we had tickets to a pancake breakfast so we were out of the house by 6:40!

We first tried to drop the stuff off at the consignment sale but the line was ridiculous so we just headed to breakfast. We had pancakes & sausage and then headed to Lowe's to pick out Fall flowers.

It was forecasted to rain so we got home and tried to get as much done as we could before the rain. We got about 1/2 of it done before the rain. While it rained we went inside and just chilled. Jared grilled for lunch and then we all 4 went down for a nap.

Once we got up, we planted the rest of the flowers. We then all cleaned up and went and had mexican food! Tell me that doesn't sound like a wonderful day!

As you can see we are quite the crew, Kie is his jumper and Billie in the stroller while Kati Ann "helps" plant flowers

This is around the tree before we put any plants in there...Kie is quite a trooper!

I know we must be a real sight for our neighbors with a baby bouncing on the front sidewalk!

Around the tree after we added the flowers

Baby Billie

2010-09-24T13:15:00.002-05:00

I've said before that Billie is our real baby. I walked downstairs this morning to bring KA her clothes and when I looked up I saw this. I said nothing to anyone just snapped a picture and Billie just stayed put. What a sweet dog! She definitely makes herself at home!

Bald and Beautiful

2010-09-22T12:42:00.002-05:00

People can go bald for all different reasons. Sometimes it is genetics, an illness or by choice. Not often can one say they are bald because of their mother. Well, sweet Kie now can make that claim.

If you know me (I mean REALLY know me), you won't be surprised when I tell this story. I pulled, what has become affectionately know as a "Bobi Ann". This is when I do things without completely thinking it through (like pouring bubble bath in a jacuzzi bathtub and turning on the jets)!

So, yesterday morning I was looking at the back of Kie's head and noticed that the bottom looked like a tail so I thought I would trim it a bit. So, I began trimming and it didn't look good so I tried to fix it by trimming some more. This cycle continued until the only way I could think of to make it all look even was to use Jared's beard & mustache trimmer (I know...you don't have to say it!) I hadn't ever used one of those before and didn't understand all the numbers on it and used the shortest setting and it began taking ALL of Kie's hair off. I didn't know what else to do but to do his whole head.

So, what we have is a 2 bald men in our house. One because he really was losing his hair, the other because his mom can't leave well enough alone. It is a good thing we love bald men here!

Golfing In Style

2010-09-18T19:32:00.002-05:00

If you've read this blog very long, you have gotten to see and hear about Kati Ann's taste in clothing. This particular outfit was a find by our own beloved Charlotte at a garage sale for FREE (that's a whole other story)! Anyway, Kati Ann LOVES this dress. As soon as it is clean she insists on wearing it. So, she found it clean in her room this morning and begged to wear it. I had no problem with that. So, this afternoon when she and her daddy decided to hit golf balls, it was Jared that wasn't dressed up to "par" (pun intended)!

She's such a crazy, fun little girl!

One Happy Baby

2010-09-18T13:51:00.001-05:00

2010-09-16T19:43:00.004-05:00

I had to share with you about this because my great friend, Kim, told me about E-Mealz and I decided to try it out and have discovered I love it! I've never been one to plan meals very well. But with e-mealz it does all the work for me. It plans meals at the grocery store, I choose, based on what they have on sale that week. That's a no brainer. Not only am I saving money because I shop smarter, but I actually have a plan for our meals whereas, I kinda tended to just wing it every week. You can click the picture above and check it out for yourself. I know I sound like an advertisement and I don't really mean to its just that I didn't even know this existed and its totally changed our meals (plus it has gotten us out of a rut of eating the same things all the time)!

Frances Wiggs Grayson 1926-2010

2010-09-11T20:10:00.004-05:00

On October 27, 1926, my dear friend, mentor and beloved grandmother entered the world. She taught me about love, commitment, and keeping the promises you make. My MaMa always took time to listen and genuinely cared about more than a surface level relationship. She cared about how we felt and wanted to know what we thought about things.

I have such wonderful memories with her as a child. She didn't miss anything that we were doing!

In 1996, MaMa contracted an illness that left her in a wheelchair until she died 14 years later. Even in a wheelchair, she made the effort to be involved in our lives. She watched Marcus' football games from the bleachers in her chair and saw us both graduate from high school from that chair. We'd go out to eat and go shopping and she did it all from that chair.

On September 10, 2010 around 11 p.m. she WALKED unassisted on streets of gold and saw her own beloved mother, her sisters, brother, friends that had gone before her and her Savior.

Without question, I will miss her dreadfully, but I celebrate the life she lived and more importantly, I celebrate her victory over pain and suffering as she now STANDS before her Jesus.

I love you, MaMa!

Strawberry Shortcake

2010-09-11T10:53:00.002-05:00

I really don't know if there are words for how adorable she looks in this Strawberry Shortcake outfit. Our sweet friend, Charlotte sewed this for Kati Ann to play dress up in but I have a feeling that this outfit may be worn for more than dress up. She loves to look at herself in the mirror wearing this! So precious!

4 Months 2 Weeks

2010-09-10T21:01:00.003-05:00

I had hoped to take a picture every month to show Kie's growth progression. However, 4 months came and went and it was not until today that I was able to get a picture of him. He actually turned 4 1/2 months today so we'll consider this a milestone as well.

Kie continues to be our laid back, happy little man. However, around the 4 month mark, he began to cut his bottom 2 teeth which caused him some real pain and he was fussy and a bit more high maintenance than we're used to. The teeth also seemed to cause him some tummy trouble with reflux and we were treating both at the same time. We seem to have gotten those under control and he's back to his happy self.

Kie loves to smile and laugh. He's definitely a momma's boy at this point (which suits me just fine since KA definitely belongs to her daddy!).

Jared & I just talked about tonight that we think our Kie will be more quiet than his older sister (which wouldn't be hard and is probably best since I don't know when he would get a chance to talk!). He certainly seems to be so far.

I'm so in love with this little guy! He brightens my day and I just love to snuggle with him! He's growing up much too fast!

Divine Intervention

2010-09-04T14:50:00.004-05:00

Its been a little while since I've posted primarily because it has been nuts around here. When I say "nuts", I mean completely overwhelming. I've tried to analyze exactly what's going on because I made it through a hectic summer with a newborn and lots of responsibility and once summer was over it all seemed to fall apart. It all seemed harder. My baby that slept so well all summer all the sudden is getting up 4 and 5 times during the night and my "magic" touch of getting 2 children down for nap together seemed to have disappeared.

I've been exhausted and cranky and wallowing in self-pity. In fact, this afternoon, I called Jared while he was out playing disc golf and pretty much let him have it for leaving me alone with 2 kids. He (in his wonderful way) immediately left and came home so I could take a nap. When Kie woke up crying he took him on a drive so I could rest. However, God didn't allow me to go back to sleep. Instead, I came downstairs and spent some quality time with Him. I wouldn't usually post exactly what God shared with me but I believe it was a divine appointment with me & God and I couldn't not share it. I'm simply going to share exactly what I wrote in my journal from what I read.

In 1 Chronicles 1:9-16, David revealed his desire to trust God for ultimate control. We say God is in control. We sing songs about trusting Him, but what a difference in the person who lives like God is the source and sustainer. In spite of full lives, somehow they still seem at rest. They aren't exhausted from a life filled with anxiety as they seem to control people and events. They are also not frustrated when things don't go as they had hoped. They are satisfied with the rewards of obeying God and rest easy knowing that the outcome was given and allowed by a God who loves them and has their best interest in mind.

I think I do this about the BIG things in my life but I struggle with little, everyday details.

George Muller said, "The beginning of anxiety is the end of faith. The beginning of true faith is the end of anxiety" Our anxiety always stems from a desire to control and indicates that we have ceased to trust the Lord. When we are depending on the Lord to hand the people and circumstances in our lives, the outcome will be an existence virtually free from worry, anxiety and fear.

Matthew 6:30-32 NLT says

"And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith? So don't worry about these things saying, 'What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' these things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs"

Where is Kati Ann Supposed to Sit?

2010-08-25T12:51:00.003-05:00

We were given this fantastic double jogging stroller when we had Kie and have gotten so much use out of it. However, apparently Billie is wondering where Kati Ann is supposed to sit? Our Billie is so sweet with our kids and will actually ride in the stroller as long as we'll let her. It gives new meaning to "walking your dog".

A Spectator

2010-08-23T13:00:00.002-05:00

I love mornings home when nobody has to rush out of the house. Nice, leisurely mornings with my kids produce some precious moments. This morning I decided to let Kati Ann play in her little pool in the backyard. She thoroughly enjoyed playing with the hose and toys and Billie joined in some too.

Kie sat on the porch and watched adoringly at his favorite little girl playing.

This expression cracked me up!

Awake & Ready

2010-08-23T12:57:00.003-05:00

Kie definitely has his own personality but something he has in common with Kati Ann is waking up pretty happy! I caught this grin when I went to get him up from a morning nap. It reminded me of Kati Ann's sweet smile around this same age.

Just Some Stuff from the Kati Ann

2010-08-22T21:23:00.004-05:00

Kati Ann is changing and growing up so much! Just a couple of things she has said recently:

I was getting dressed for a wedding and I put on a pair of black peep-toe heels. Kati Ann loves heels and is constantly playing dress up in my closet with my heels. So, I walked downstairs

Bobi Ann: What do you think, Kati Ann?

Kati Ann (in a teenager kind of voice): "Where did you get those shoes?"

Bobi Ann: "Out of my closet"

Kati Ann: "Hold on"

She proceeded to go upstairs and come down with some brown pointy-toe heels

Kati Ann: "Try these"

So, I put them on and she looked at me and said

"Now THAT'S cute!"

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

On the way home from church Sunday night she said to Kie

KA: "Kie, do you know something?"

Of course, Kie can't respond so I said, "What do you know, Kati Ann"

KA: "God"

Happy 250!

2010-08-19T20:30:00.002-05:00

I've never celebrated any milestone posts before mainly because I've never payed attention but I happened to notice that this is my 250th post since starting this blog in 2007. I'm not sure whether that's much of an accomplishment considering its been 3 years but I think so.

I absolutely love to blog and am thankful for an outlet for me to easily record memories! Looking forward to another 250!

Goober Cake

2010-08-19T20:21:00.002-05:00

Kati Ann & I made a delicious cake today that I just had to share the recipe for & it was a good opportunity to post an adorable picture of my favorite 3-year old chef in her apron that is like Mom's.

Goober Cake

1 box of Yellow Cake Mix

4 Eggs

3/4 cup oil

1 12oz bag of Mini M&M's, reserve some for the edge

1 4oz pkg of chocolate pudding, instant

1 cup sour cream

Mix all ingredients together...put it into a greased bundt pan. Put some baking bits on the top of the cake to make the edge colorful. Bake at 350 degrees for 50-60 minutes. Allow to completely cool and turn onto a plate.

First Day of School

2010-08-19T13:51:00.003-05:00

This week Kati Ann started her first week of 3 year old preschool at the Weekday Early Education program at our church. This is her 3rd year to attend WEE but it is her first year to go to school 3 consecutive days in a row. She attends school Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8:25-12:10. She and I both were excited about her going to school but we both have discovered that it is quite an adjustment! I just didn't realize how much help she was to me with Kie and she has been quite exhausted from going back to school. We've had a few meltdowns due to just being REALLY tired!

We already love her teachers though and can't wait to see all that she's going to learn this year! She's getting to be such a big girl!

Bobi Ann's Product Review

2010-08-18T13:10:00.002-05:00

I don't often post things about products unless I feel pretty strongly about them and in this case I do. A few weeks ago, I was introduced to Pretzel M&M's and I am in love! I started with the small bags that you buy at the checkout counter and have progressed to the Party Size bag! If you haven't tried this wonderful combination, you really should treat your mouth to this sweet snack!

1st Theatre Movie

2010-08-18T13:05:00.003-05:00

This weekend we decided to take Kati Ann & Kie to their very first theatre movie. Last week, we showed Kati Ann her first full-length movie at home to see how she would do. She really enjoyed it and so we decided she was ready. We hit Buffalo Wild Wings for dinner and then Jared bought our tickets to see Despicable Me and the 4 of us headed into the theatre. I strolled Kie in expecting he would sleep most of the movie. We were sitting in the section usually designated for wheelchairs and I parked the stroller. About 15 minutes into the movie, I looked over and Kie's eyes were wide open. So, I decided to turn his stoller where he could see the screen. I thought he might watch it a little and doze off. Instead, Kie watched almost the entire movie. I couldn't believe it...he didn't make a sound the whole time. There was one point that I had Kati Ann & Kie both in my lap! It was precious!

Despicable Me is an excellent movie with an wonderful story line. Jared had actually already seen it and was excited to take us to it! We loved it and made some sweet memories!

Our Sweet Girl

2010-08-05T13:11:00.002-05:00

Dear Kati Ann,

I don't tell you enough how much I appreciate what a precious child you are. You have a genuine love for life. Even at the age of 3, you are fun to hang out with. Just last night, the two of us laid in my bed and giggled when you should have been going to sleep.

You are such a big helper with your little brother and one day will be an amazing mother yourself. You are very nurturing!

God made you so special! He knew you before you were born. He loves you more than Daddy & I do (which is hard for us to imagine).

We pray daily that God will turn your heart to Him and give you a love for Him. We pray that He will guide us as we try to guide you to be a godly young lady. We won't get it all right, Sweet One, but we trust God to get it right!

We love you so much!! Thank you for giving us joy beyond what we could have dreamed!

Love,

Mom

On to meet the rest of the Family

2010-08-02T20:26:00.005-05:00

Our first stop on the way to Bryan was to meet Uncle Marcus aka "Boppy". Marcus works in Buffalo so we stopped by his office and I got to see where he works and he got to meet his nephew. Kie was pretty fond of his Boppy and of course Kati Ann loves to see her Boppy.

After seeing Marcus, we headed to Bryan to meet my MiMi & Daday. My MiMi was beside herself with excitement. She couldn't stand it. We joked (sort of) that she wouldn't notice the rest of us were there until maybe a hour after we arrived. Her primary interest was her newest great-grandson and Kati Ann ran a close second!

MiMi even shared (reluctantly) with Daday!

Fun with Friends in TX

2010-07-30T15:06:00.006-05:00

Before heading to Bryan for Kie to meet the rest of the family, my precious friend, Ashley came over to my parent's house with her two kiddos, Luke & Caroline. Kati Ann & Luke became fast friends. In fact, neither Kati Ann or Luke wanted for Luke to leave. They had a blast together. It is always good for me to see Ashley. She and I have a special relationship that I'm so thankful for.

Luke loving on KieMan.

Those boys are too cute together!

Caroline, Kati Ann & Luke

3 Month Stats

2010-07-29T18:41:00.002-05:00

Our Kie is 3 months old. He weighs 14lbs 14 oz (74%) and 26 inches long (99%). He is an absolute sweetheart! His daddy is his favorite person to smile at and he loves to watch his big sister. Momma is still the one that can best comfort him. Our home has certainly changed in the last 3 months but it is already hard to remember what it was like before Kie entered our world!! We love life as a family of 4!

3 month & 3 year old pictures

2010-07-29T15:10:00.003-05:00

Trips to TX=Haircuts

2010-07-28T14:46:00.004-05:00

One thing that is pretty consistent about going to TX is getting haircuts while we're there. I have someone that cuts my hair in AL but I still love the lady that cuts my hair in TX. In fact, Cindy is the only one that has ever cut Kati Ann's hair and this time we decided to add a little "style" to Kati Ann's hair by stacking it in the back.

Poor Kie was stuck hanging out with the ladies in the beauty shop!

A Special Introduction

2010-07-27T13:58:00.004-05:00

Upon mine & Kie's return from camp, Jared picked us up at the church and we headed to Texas. It was Kie's first trip and he had some special people to meet! First on the journey was my MaMa. MaMa is my Mom's mom & is dying of sorosis of the liver. One of her goals was to live to meet her great-grandson, Kie. It was an emotional time for me as I watched this amazing woman that influenced my life so much meet my son. Oh, how I wish that both of my children could have the opportunity to glean the wisdom that she has to share and to know her like I do. I'm so grateful that God saw fit that she is still around to meet Kie!

MaMa & Kie "talking" and my grandmother's precious nurse, Robin

Kie's First Camp

2010-07-19T19:52:00.008-05:00

Wow!! What a summer we've had! Besides having a baby right before the summer began, we did our normal summer activities which includes: Bible School for me (150 Preteens), Camp for Jared, Mission Trip for Jared, Camp for Me & a trip to TX which included Jared preaching a youth camp in San Antonio. We also managed to have company every week we were home except one (I think). One of the cool things about camp this year, was getting to take Kie to camp. I know you must think I'm absolutely crazy for taking a brand new baby to camp on top of having to be in charge of a camp (that we put on ourselves), not to mention the germs from a bunch of preteens!

It sounds crazy & I probably would think someone was crazy if I had heard of them doing it myself, however, for me it was a huge blessing. The summer after I had KA, I was still nursing her but didn't have the option of taking her with me to camp. So, I pumped enough to be gone a week and pumped the entire week I was at camp. It was a challenge to say the least. So, when I knew that I had the option of taking Kie to camp, I was determined to figure out a way to do it. The camp itself is not very conducive to having a baby in a cabin but they have RV hookups. We have some wonderful friends (the Dave Ward family) that allowed us to borrow their RV & then another wonderful friend (Angela Edwards) took a week off of work to be the "nanny" at camp. So, Kie was well taken care of and I was able to feed him throughout the week & still do my job! It was a huge success!

Jordan, our sweet babysitter (and one of my leaders at camp) & Kie

Asleep in the RV

Momma & Kie at Camp

Visit with Aunt Kate

2010-07-08T18:46:00.003-05:00

Jared's sister has come to visit us until Saturday. She's gotten to meet Kie for the first time and Kati Ann has LOVED playing with "her" Kate as she refers to her. We have loved having her and enjoy so much just getting to hang out.

Catching a Smile

2010-07-08T18:41:00.003-05:00

Kie has been smiling for a while but I've had a hard time getting a picture. Here is a picture of him smiling at his daddy today.

Family Swim

2010-06-26T11:00:00.004-05:00

This week has been incredibly crazy for us and not necessarily a favorite! It has been the week before Jared's camp and so he has been a little stressed and certainly busy. I've been busy getting my camp together as well (though I have a couple of more weeks) along with some extra stuff that got tacked on to the week. We managed to have a babysitter at the house at some point during the day EVERY day this week. KA usually loves babysitters but even she had enough of the craziness by the end of the week and was ready for some "just us" time. So by Saturday we were ready to curl up in our little family cocoon and spend some real time together.

We decided it would be fun to start our "just us" family day at the swimming pool. We are really blessed to have a neighborhood pool that KA has been taking swimming lessons at and we all 4 headed down there and had so much fun. KA is quite the swimmer now and blows us away by what she can do in the pool ("by herself" as she likes to say). Kie really likes the water as well. He floats around in his little float and sleeps!

Kie finally had enough and was ready to nap outside of the pool!

Billie enjoyed a little swimming at home while we were at the pool!

8 weeks

2010-06-25T15:59:00.002-05:00

Our little guy turned 8 weeks this week. I know I keep saying it but he is growing so fast that I am constantly astounded. The little outfit he has on is 3-6 months and I realized that if I didn't go ahead and put it on him he'd grow out of it before he ever wore it.

He is absolutely so sweet. He is so content and loves to just coo and smile at his daddy and sister.

Kati Ann is still completely eaten up with him and is such a great help.

A Funny

2010-06-19T20:05:00.003-05:00

picture Jared took at Starbucks of KA sitting across from him

So, Jared likes to take Kati Ann on "trips." These trips usually just involve a little getting out the house for 30 minutes or so to give me a little relief. Today, Jared told Kati Ann they were going on a "trip." She was quite excited (as usual). They headed to Starbuck's and had a little date together.
They got back in the car and
KA asked Jared: "Where are we going on our trip, Daddy?"
Jared: "Our trip was to Starbuck's"
KA: "Daddy, coffee is NOT a trip!"

Something Absolutely New

2010-06-19T12:46:00.005-05:00

“The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new.”

I read this quote today and realized just how true it was. I knew my life would change when I had children but I don't think I realized how much I would change. Things that were important before just don't matter and things that I didn't think mattered that much are the most important things! I absolutely LOVE being a mother and can't believe how blessed I am with two amazing children. I love the "new" me that was born on May 1, 2007 and again on April 27, 2010.

Sweetness

2010-06-18T21:13:00.002-05:00

On the way home from some friends,
Kati Ann asked me, "Mom, can I go see...Jesus?"
I asked her, "Where is Jesus, Kati Ann?"
Kati Ann responded with "At His house!" (In a "duh" tone of voice)

Jared & I looked at each other and really had nothing to say, that was a good answer!

Bobi Ann's Turtle Frosty

2010-06-15T15:33:00.002-05:00

So, at VBS last week we got coupons for a free Frosty at Wendy's and so today KA and I went to get one on our way home for lunch to have for dessert. I decided to create my own Turtle Frosty with mine (Turtle Ice Cream is one of my favorites). I took my Frosty & added caramel syrup and pecans & enjoyed my own Turtle Frosty Creation. Quite frankly, it was just too good not to share!

7 Weeks of Adorableness

2010-06-14T17:09:00.003-05:00

I don't know just how it happens so fast but my teeny tiny baby is growing. I look at him and try to envision the size he was when they handed him to me at the hospital and I just can't believe how much bigger he is! He's now in 3-6 month clothes. Kati Ann didn't move up sizes quite as fast and I can't believe just how quickly he is growing.

A Man in Training

2010-06-12T09:14:00.004-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, I was getting Kati Ann dressed, Kie was screaming and Jared was shaving. So, Jared stepped in and took Kie. He took him into the bathroom with him and all I knew is that it got quiet in there. I didn't go look for quite a while because I was taking advantage of the quiet to get some things done but when I went back into the bathroom this is what I saw. Jared had put Kie next to the toilet and turned the vent fan on above him. It quieted him down and he went to sleep. My first thought was "Jared is a genius!" and my second thought was how appropriate that Jared would teach his son to fall asleep by the toilet!! Boys love "bathroom talk", etc. Jared is starting him early!
This has actually become a popular spot for me to put him to get a shower!

1st VBS Program

2010-06-10T20:40:00.006-05:00

Kati Ann & her friend Katiebug

It is hard to believe that our Kati Ann is actually old enough to be in a "program" at church! Tonight was her first VBS program. She was in the youngest group and I thought it was so precious! Check out the boots with the shorts...of course this looks is very in with the teenagers and apparently KA thinks so too because she insisted on wearing them.
Enjoy the video of her singing at the program!

My Recent Project

2010-06-05T19:16:00.003-05:00

It is unfortunate that I don't have a "before" picture but I didn't think that far ahead. Kati Ann has been in Texas this week so I only had one child to take care of so it seemed like a good time to do a project that I've wanted to do for months. We bought this table on Craigslist not long after moving into our house. The metal was a nickel color and the seats were covered in a plaid (that Kati Ann did a real number on with food & other things). So, my project was to recover the cushions with a more durable, kid-friendly fabric and paint the metal an oil-rubbed bronze. Here is the result. I'm quite excited about it.