Halls of Fame

So, It's Been A Long While

2010-07-08T14:45:00.000-05:00

I have been in such a rut lately. Add to that, my sister moving in, my Dad visiting, my sister moving out, my Mom visiting, a few trips to the dr (for me and I NEVER go to the dr) and you have one tired, stressed out Mama. We did a dining room makeover and as soon as I get pics of the after I'll do a post about that. We also painted the playroom and it looks A-MAZING! I'll post pics of that as soon as I get it organized again.

Here are some pics of my girls from the 4th!

Friday Favorites

2010-03-26T14:57:00.000-05:00

I haven't been around much lately partly because my kids have become extra needy but mostly because my little sister moved in and I prefer spending time with her over the computer! She has a job interview today and is babysitting this evening so I have some free time to update.

The weather haa been great so we've been outside a lot.

I finally broke down and bought the Jillian Michaels 30 day Shred DVD and thankfully my sister takes no excuses and we have successfully been at it for 4 days--only 26 more to go. After Jillian we're starting P90x so hopefully I won't be embarrassed to wear shorts this summer!

Cory is busy studying for his Professional Engineering exam. We could really use some prayers that he passes this time because I don't think we can go through this again in October!

The girls are all great. Katherine woke up the other day and instead of "Good Morning, Mom" I got "Happy School Day, Mom". She then said "I made that up but we ARE doing school today." I also got "the look" which means I've been kind of lazy about the whole preschool thing. Next year will be better though, I promise! I love that she wants to learn. Hopefully the other two are like their big sister in that aspect.

And now to my Friday Favorites. These are just going to be favorite pictures from the week, favorite blogs I read or just something I read/saw/made from the week. Hope you enjoy!

Bee helping Daddy fix the kitchen

Bee's first ponytail. I really just love her face in this pic!

This is actually her smile, not a grimace from having KK pinch her cheek!

Attractive, I know but Kat told me to make a silly face!

Kat. I swear I fix this child's hair but it never stays that way.

I heart my big girl!

My sis (Brittney) with Bee.

My have to check everyday blog lately has been Better After . I have some things I'm wanting to revamp so I go there for inspiration.

I also love love love Its So Very Cheri. She has something different everyday so I have to pop in to see what's going on. I'm actually heading there now to catch up on this week's posts.

Hope y'all have a great weekend!

LOVES!

Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-03-10T15:57:00.001-06:00

Outside my window... it's sunny and warm...a beautiful day!

I am thinking... about nachos for dinner

I am thankful for... my husband's job even though they had to cut hours. At least he has a job he loves and they treat him (and us) very well.

From the learning rooms...Kaydence is practicing using scissors and Katherine is learning to sound out words

From the kitchen...easy simple nachos for dinner.

I am wearing... my owl pj's...I've been shampooing carpets and cleaning so I haven't gotten dressed today.

I am creating... a banner for my lil seester who will be moving in with us tomorrow for a few months!! I'm beyond excited.

I am going... to get my husband from work in about an hour so I should probably get dressed at some point.

I am reading... more blogs. Getting lots of creative ideas and learning about other homeschooling Moms.

I am hoping... my sister makes it here safely tomorrow.

I am hearing... the girls laughing

Around the house... shampooing carpets

One of my favorite things... dates with the hubby.

A few plans for the rest of the week: spending time with my seester...and laundry

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2010-03-03T23:51:00.001-06:00

I found The Simple Woman's Daybook through another blog I stalk and thought it seemed like a great thing for me. So, here's my first crack at it!

Outside my window... it's dark and drizzling.

I am thinking... I'm ready for spring

I am thankful for... 3 healthy kids

From the learning rooms... getting ready to start homeschooling (kindergarten and preschool) August 1st! Although right now we are going through the alphabet and this week is E. My 5 yr old loves telling me when something starts with E. Actually she loves telling me what every word she says starts with!

From the kitchen... Today I made my husband's favorite...hamburgers! And I finally made the chocolate chip cookies I had been promising for a week!

I am wearing... my purple striped pj's

I am creating... nothing at the moment but I have several ideas floating around in my head.

I am going... to bed soon!

I am reading... just blogs lately! It's my new escape. Plus it's great getting inspiration from so many talented ladies.

I am hoping... I kick this stomach yuckiness soon and that my girls don't get it again.

I am hearing... silence.

Around the house... needs cleaning and organizing!

One of my favorite things... when one (or all) of my girls tell me they want snuggles.

A few plans for the rest of the week: Organizing the kitchen and playroom.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

Something my Mom sent me

2010-02-24T15:44:00.001-06:00

I thought these were funny. For those of you who don't know we've decided to homeschool starting this fall. And I'm pretty sure my 5 year old thinks like these kids so it should be interesting...especially the "Barbie breaks" LOL

These are from Baby Blues comic by Rick Kirkman & Jerry Scott.

Happy Birthday, Kaydence!!!

2010-02-22T23:45:00.000-06:00

My sweet little girl turned 3 on the 21st! I can't believe how time flies. We actually moved to Tennessee a month after she was born so we've been here almost 3 years, crazy!!

I made her a skirt and purse to wear to church for her birthday. She looked so cute & so big...makes me all teary eyed. I also made her a tutu which she wore the rest of the day.

She really wanted an Elmo cake so I whipped her up one! I'm pretty dang impressed with it actually.

Here are some pics! Enjoy!!!

The Birthday Girl

The skirt (my first one ever!)

The purse & skirt & bows too!

All decked out ready for church

Enjoying ice cream @ Toot's

PRESENTS!!

All tuckered out in her tutu

The birthday spread

Elmo cake!!

Make a wish!

LOVES!!

Paint Box

2010-02-18T16:51:00.001-06:00

After yesterday's debactle, which has been shelved for the moment because it was so horrific I won't even tell you what I did, I decided I would just start back with the organization of our office space. First though I have to tell you what we did several weeks ago. We decided that the 3rd bedroom was not big enough for his stuff, my stuff and our stuff. What to do...We moved the girls' playroom out of the bonus room and into the 3rd bedroom and we moved our office/Mel's crafty space upstairs to the bonus room. Aaaand, it's still a mess. So today I wanted to start organizing. Only I still don't have the tools (aka bins and baskets) I need to organize. Cue my GREAT IDEA!

With black paint, Mod Podge, scrapbook paper & a wee bit of wrapping paper (for the seams)

I turned this

Into this

The recycled box will hold my paints.

This lil piece makes me happy and was so easy! I did it in one day while taking care of 3 kids and getting laundry washed, dried, folded and put away!

LOVES!

I prefer straight lines

2010-02-17T11:22:00.000-06:00

I'm working on a project using Mod Podge and let's just say, curves are NOT my friend! It looks hideous...trying to figure out how to salvage it...

Ok, vent over. Off to make the girls some lunch maybe inspiration will hit me in the kitchen?

LOVES!

Steppin' Up

2010-02-14T13:39:00.000-06:00

So we bought this step stool at a yard sale for $1 about a year ago.

I had big plans to do...something. But in the garage it stayed. And stayed. And stayed. Until I finally got some inspiration from THIS blog. I love Mod Podge but I don't really ever know HOW to use it or if I SHOULD use it. Well, now I know that you can use it everywhere for anything and the answer is always YES you SHOULD use it! I now have a list of things I'm going to refurbish and I'm so excited!

Anyhow, the finished product...

ta da...

I used scrapbook paper Lullaby Alphabet by Moda Fabrics for Daisy D's (I bought it at Hobby Lobby)

Liquitex Cobalt Blue Acrylic Paint

Apple Barrel Brand Bright Red (20401) Acrylic Paint

Mod Podge Gloss

The girls love it! And even though I have 3 daughters and could've made it more girly I love that it is gender neutral. I think we'll keep this one in the kitchen so Mommy can use it too!

LOVES!

Prayers

2010-02-09T12:50:00.003-06:00

Katherine & Kaydence are usually fighting...but sometimes they make their Mommy so proud! I just overheard them saying a prayer over their tea party! Melt my heart! Loves these girls!!

OrGaNiZaTiOn ???

2010-01-06T20:41:00.000-06:00

Hi, I'm Melanie and I'm a packrat!

I inherited this ugly character flaw from my Daddy who inherited it from his Daddy (my Pappaw) and I'm sure it goes back much further! My packrat-ness hasn't actually been a problem for me until, well...now! I'm trying ot get organized for homeschooling and with all the ~~crap~~ things I've accumulated over the years there is no where to put much needed stuff. I'd show you a picture but it's embarassing. Maybe once the office is organized I'll be braver. It's actually not so much an office but rather a place where stuff (MY stuff) goes to die. It's sad, really. So, my goal this week has been to get this room organized. Meanwhile, I'm also trying to keep up with laundry and keep my family fed. Therefore, the office has not been touched. That all ends now. I'm going to get started right now...as soon as I post. Hopefully by Sunday y'all will be seeing before and after pics of the madness that is Melanie!

LOVES!!

Pappaw

2009-12-31T23:43:00.003-06:00

The idea to write this blog has been bouncing around in my head for quite a while but I guess I wasn't emotionally ready, until now.

My Pappaw had a wonderful life. He had many people who loved and respected him. Among them 2 children (my Daddy and his sister, Amanda), 8 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. What can I say? We're a bunch of breeders! However, this blog is not about his life but rather his death.

On October 2, 2009 my little sister Brittney called to tell me I need to get home to say goodbye. I was a bit in denial so I took my time and waited until the next morning. Truth is though; deep down I was very afraid I was going to be too late.

When I saw my Pappaw I was greatly appreciative for my sister's warning. That was not my Pappaw lying in the hospital bed in the back bedroom of his home. This man was frail and thin. My Pappaw always had an athletic build and was anything but frail. Unfortunately, this man was my Pappaw and he was slowly leaving us. He was actually out of it most of the time but he had moments of lucidity. During one of those moments I told him I loved him and got to hear him say he loved me one last time.

The next few days are still a blur. The hospice nurses were amazing and most of the family helped with Pappaw's care as well. And I must say I have never been prouder of my brothers. At a time when some would have found it easier to sit around feeling sorry for themselves, they (my 4 big brothers) stood up as men. I believe they all at some point had to help change the sheets or change his diaper. My Pappaw was in lots of pain at the end so this caused him great distress. Did I say how proud I was of my brothers? Because I really am! They were able to do these things, not because it was easy or because they have no hearts but because they all have hearts as big as Heaven itself and because the man in that bed was our Pappaw and he needed them!

On Monday, October 5th, Pappaw said his last words and they just happened to be to my youngest, Bridget. He saw her and said "You sure are a pretty little thing, I tell you what." I'll never forget that. That night, My Daddy and I decided to stay through the night and give my Pappaw his meds which at this point meant every hour because they were keeping him fully sedated. Every hour my Daddy and I would give Pappaw his medicine. I'd rub lip balm on Pappaw's lips and my Daddy and I would have a good cry. Every hour. It was an exhausting night. At 3 am my Daddy decided we'd wait until 5 am to give Pappaw more meds so that the 2 of us could get a couple of hours sleep.

At 4:45 am I woke up because I thought I heard someone walk into the den. No one was there and I suddenly had a very uneasy feeling. My plan had originally been to let my Daddy sleep but I suddenly felt as though I needed to wake him. We soon realized Pappaw was taking his last breaths. Mammaw and Amanda woke up, I called my sister and left to go pick her up. My Pappaw passed away before I even left the driveway in the presence of his wife of 62 years and his two children. The way it should have been.

Now, earlier I said I was proud of my brothers but what I'm about to tell you next amazes me still...

When the men from JA Funk Funeral Home were taking my Pappaw to the car they needed help. First, there were the steep front steps and then the completely saturated yard. Two of my brothers (Brian and Brad) stepped forward yet again. With not a complaint and no shed tears, until they closed the hearse. John Allan (my Mammaw's 1st cousin) was very impressed, as was I. My 2 brothers, my sister and myself stood in the driveway and watched as they drove my Pappaw away from his home for the last time on that rainy morning of October 6th.

Until we meet again, Pappaw. You are missed and loved still.

Brice, Pappaw, Mammaw, Me, Brittney, Brian

Brant, Brad

Cory, Pappaw, Mammaw, Katherine, Me, Bridget, Kaydence, my Daddy

Our Big Decision

2009-12-06T22:15:00.000-06:00

We're going to homeschool! I know, I know, WHAT?! I want to start by stating that I do not have anything at all against public school. The schools in our town are actually great and when we bought our house we bought in this area for a reason. That being said, I feel God has been leading me in this direction for quite some time and I've been ignoring Him and telling him there's no way, no how that homeschooling is ever going to happen with me. Well, He continued to put the information out there, right in front of my face, and yet I continued to ignore Him. He got to be too much to ignore!

At first my thoughts were to go ahead and let Katherine start Kindergarten at public school in the fall but after prayers and discussion with my husband we've decided that if since this is something we are going to do we need to jump in and fully commit. Realize, when I say we I really mean me because my husband has his doubts but trusts God enough to step back. Of course, this was after I told him that he could argue with God all he wanted but I was done with that and thoroughly exhausted from it!

My main worry/concern is how to handle the nay-sayers and the negative comments. I mean, I really shouldn't care what others think but its human nature and I'm terrified! Now hear me clearly, I'm not getting ready to go out and buy denim jumpers or anything of the sort. I'll still be me just me HOMESCHOOLING! That is not a phrase I ever thought I'd see! Of course, like I told my hubby, I also said I'd never drive a minivan but I do and I love it. As people grow and mature they change. I guess I'm going through one of those changes right now.

I could use tons of prayers as we journey into the world of homeschooling and even more prayers as I face the world confident in my decision.

LOVES!!!

P.S. I do want comments just remember, if you are ugly or disrespectful that will only reflect poorly on yourself.

Where does the time go?

2009-12-05T20:37:00.000-06:00

Our Katherine turned 5 on November 29th! We weren't going to do a friend party but at the last minute she decided she wanted to invited people so we managed to get 6 friends here. I guess thats pretty good for last minute! LOL

Enough of my rambling, let's see pics!

The table

The Cake

(Definitely not my best work but it tasted good!)

A Birthday Call

(From Pop--My Daddy)

The Balloon

There are more pics but they are on the hubby's camera which is at work!

LOVES!!

Thanksgiving

2009-11-30T12:58:00.002-06:00

We had a great Thanksgiving and I hope you all did too! Now because I was in Arkansas so much during October we decided to spending Thanksgiving at home and Christmas in Arkansas. Our Thanksgiving meal was YUMMY!

The Menu

Cajun Turkey Breast (The turkey is always Cory's only job and he did an EXCELLENT job!)
Mammaw's Chicken n Dressing
Greenbean Casserole
Mashed Taters
Turkey Gravy
Rolls
Pumpkin Cheesecake
Pecan Pie

While everything cooked we watched the parade and the big girls made place mats (Bee was sleeping). I used a cereal box and traced their hands to make turkeys. Who hasn't made the infamous hand turkey??

Yes, Kaydence is usually half naked! She lives freely!

As we ate we asked the girls what they were thankful for. We got some cute answers but the best was Kaydence who said (with no prompting, I swear!) she was thankful for Jesus! Too sweet!! LOVE HER!!

After we ate I made them put on the dresses I made for them! And it lasted just long enough for me to snap a few pics before they were tearing them off and running upstairs to play.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

Melanie's Cookin

2009-11-23T14:37:00.000-06:00

Y'all, I love me some Paula Deen! She cooks like I do (lots of butter and not always good for ya stuff) and talks like I do. Well, ok, if we're being honest she has more of a Southern Belle accent and I have a Southern Redneck accent but only true southerners can tell the difference! I DVR all of her Food Network shows Paula's Home Cooking (which I believe should be spelled Cookin' cause you know how we Southerners leave the G off the ends of words).

A week or so ago she made a Pumpkin Cheesecake that I KNEW Cory would LOVE! So, I decided to make one for Thanksgiving instead of the standard pumpkin pie. I'm actually making it, along with some cookies, for Katherine's "feast" at preschool on Tuesday. I figured whatever is left Cory can have on Thursday since I'm also making my personal fave, pecan pie.

Now, just so everyone knows, I've never made a cheesecake before so this is a new adventure for me and I thought I'd share the experience through pictures.

Ingredients

Crust:

1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs

3 tablespoons light brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 stick melted salted butter

Filling:

3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, at room temperature

1 (15-ounce) can pureed pumpkin

3 eggs plus 1 egg yolk

1/4 cup sour cream

1 1/2 cups sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon fresh ground nutmeg

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

2 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

For crust:

In medium bowl, combine crumbs, sugar and cinnamon. Add melted butter. Press down flat into a 9-inch springform pan. Set aside.

For filling:

Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add pumpkin puree, eggs, egg yolk, sour cream, sugar and the spices. Add flour and vanilla. Beat together until well combined.

Pour into crust. Spread out evenly and place oven for 1 hour. Remove from the oven and let sit for 15 minutes. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours.

Just a note, 1 hour is NOT enough. 90 minutes will do the trick. And apparently you need a warm water bath when using a springform pan and baking a cheesecake to avoid cracks. Who knew??

I just put it in the fridge, I think I may have to let the husband have a little taste tonight to see if it's edible! It's definitely not as pretty has Paula's but I hope it tastes as good!

I'll be putting Whipped Cream on top before I drop it off @ Katherine's school tomorrow so that will cover all the imperfections so I'm not really too concerned with the cracks!

I'll let ya know how it turns out!

LOVES!!

A Homemade Christmas

2009-11-20T11:10:00.000-06:00

I found this awesome blog as I was googling today. I had decided a week or so ago that instead of spending lots of money on toys and nonsense the girls do NOT need that we were going to get them handmade special gifts. I ordered them each a doll from my friend Melissa over at Puddin Pop Designs but I'm having trouble coming up with other things to do for them. I really want the true meaning of the season to be at the forefront of the holidays and not how many gifts they receive. If you have any ideas for gifts let me know!

LOVES!

I'm Sorry, So Sorry!

2009-11-19T17:03:00.001-06:00

So my "blog a day" plan didn't work. Now you all know I'm perfectly imperfect. ;) I'm apologizing now for my lack of ambition and because of that I've decided that if I just manage to blog once a week then I'm doing fabulously wonderful!

So what's been going on for the last oh, two months?

In September I met my Mom, Seester, and my 3 sisters-in-law (J, D & B)in Memphis,Tn/Tunica, Ms for my Seester's 21st Birthday! We called it Brittney's Boozin' Birthday (if her name had started with some other letter it wouldn't have been as great!). There was not tons of boozin but it was her 21st so there was some drinking and tons of F.U.N.

October nothing fabulous or wonderful happened. My Pappaw went to be with Jesus on the 6th so the girls and I spent most of the month in Arkansas which was great. I really miss my family but I HEART Tennessee and don't really want to leave. For the one week we were in Tn between trips to AR I managed to be sick with strep, an ear infection and laryngitis. Yay, ME!

In more recent news, I made a cleaning schedule and I'm sticking to it! My laundry has been getting washed and put away immediately and I start the dishwasher when I go to bed and put them away in the morning while the girls eat breakfast. I dusted for I believe the first time since we moved into our house (March 09) too! It has actually been a nice change and my weekends are so much better because we don't spend them putting away piles of laundry and cleaning what didn't get done during the week. And it has actually been liberating for me. Before, I spent most days feeling overwhelmed because I knew there was stuff that needed to be done but I just did not know where to start. And for those you don't know, when I get in that situation I completely shut down and its difficult for me to function. So this is quite the change and I can honestly say I enjoy cleaning now!

I started sewing last weekend. Before Saturday I had never sewn anything but a few crooked pillows and by the end of the weekend I had made 4 pillowcase dresses! I made a Thanksgiving dress for each of my girls and since i was having so much fun and had extra fabric I made one for my 'so-cute-you-want-to-eat her-face neice Victoria!

We will be spending Thanksgiving in Tennessee since I spent so much of October in Arkansas so I'll be adding Thanksgiving dinner to my list of chores for next week. I love this time of year and I have a lot to be thankful for this year.

Until next time, LOVES!

Brittney's Boozin' Birthday!-Hard Rock Cafe Memphis

Thanksgiving 2008--Our last Thanksgiving with Pappaw

KK & Kat playing in the leaves

Bee up close

KK's dress Mommy made! It IS sideways so either tilt your head or flip your computer ;)

Tidy Tuesday--Laundry

2009-09-08T19:02:00.003-05:00

Laundry Rule #1---NO clean laundry may enter your bedroom unless it is folded and put away. This will cut down on the piles of laundry covering every available space in your bedroom!
Laundry Rule #2---Get a hamper in your bedroom and immediately put dirty clothes where they belong.

I don't know about you guys but this tip could not come at a more opportune time for me as my bed is piled high with clean clothes! I hate laundry, I mean passionately HATE it. I generally try to avoid it until my husband tells me he needs clean underwear. This is why I chose not to cloth diaper, my "Just Say 'NO'!" to more laundry philosophy. But, tonight while I watch Big Brother 11 (please evict Michelle, Kevin...seriously!) I am going to fold and put away laundry!

Happy Cleaning!!
And GO JORDAN!!!!
Mel

Manic Monday...on Tuesday

2009-09-08T18:20:00.007-05:00

So, I'm already off to a poor start on my daily themed blogs! But I have a very good excuse this time, yesterday was a holiday and Cory was home. When he's home all schedules break down and we fly by the seat of our pants, not good for someone who does not function without at least some order but we survived. And as a result you get TWO new blogs to read today. I don't want to get too far behind!

Our weekend wasn't fun. Just a soccer game on Saturday and Cory power washed the driveway but you don't want to see or hear about that so I decided to steal my little sister's weekend and post about that instead. Thanks, Britt, for leading an occasionally exciting life! ;)

Saturday was the first Arkansas Razorback football game of the season. The game was at 6 pm and the family started tailgating around 9:30 am. These are good times and it is on these occasions that I ache to live closer to home, but only a little! I'll let the pics speak for themselves and leave you with one last thing...

WOOOOOOO PIG SOOIE!!!!!

Finally Friday

2009-09-04T09:33:00.004-05:00

What a week we had! Katherine had a great first week of school and I could not be a prouder Mama! My house looks like a bomb exploded so I'll be busy the rest of the day cleaning and doing laundry so I don't have to worry about my trashed house this weekend. Katherine has her 2nd soccer game tomorrow. I think I'm becoming a better "Soccer Mom" too. I wasn't sure I was cut out to be a sports mom but I think I'm going to like it!

I realize I've been a bad blogger so I decided today that instead of trying to come up with updates everyday to post I'm going to have a different theme for each day of the week. So now I won't just stare at a blank screen and have a panic attack wondering what to write! If I have family updates then they will be a seperate post. So now my 2 loyal readers will have something new to read everyday! ;) This is still going to be a blog to keep our family and friends updated on us and the girls too so expect to see lots of pics of my wacky children!

Manic Monday-Weekend Wrap up and Weekly Overview
Tidy Tuesday-Cleaning Tips/Organizational Tips (This is more for me than for anyone else! If I'm not organized I get overwhelmed and can't function so hopefully this will help!)
Way-Back Wednesday-Old pics of me/Cory/the girls--This should be fun for kids of all ages!
Thursday Treats-New recipes I've tried...especially SWEET treats! I love to bake and this will give me an excuse to do so.
Finally Friday-Weekly updates, pics of the girls, pics of the girls' projects (especially Katherine's school work)

I'm looking forward to being a better blogger! And please leave comments, I feel like a loser when I don't get comments! :)

Katherine's 1st Day of Preschool

2009-09-01T15:04:00.008-05:00

Katherine started Tuesday/Thursday School today. She was excited. When we got there she gave me a hug and kiss and that was it. I'm not even sure she knew-or cared-that we were gone! The first thing she said to me when she got in the van this afternoon was "I can't wait until Thursday." So, she had a great day!

Kaydence started out ok. She wanted to take her 'packpack' too but then wouldn't tell Katherine bye. When we got home she was kind of mopey and pouty. When I asked her what was wrong she would say " I miss my Katherine." (All together...Awwwwwwww!) It was pitiful. She didn't even eat her lunch. Poor thing. I think she'll get used to it and eventually will be glad to see Katherine go! Once she realizes that when Bridget naps she gets Mommy to herself she'll LOVE it!

Bridget was great today. We dropped Katherine off and went to Publix where Kay and Bee were both GREAT! When we got home Bridget went straight to bed and slept until 12:30. By the time she ate lunch it was nearly time to go get Katherine.

Overall, I had a pretty good day. I miss my big girl but it was a lot quieter around here without her making Kaydence scream all day! Yay for Tuesday/Thursday School---Bring on Kindergarten!! ;)

Updates---Finally

2009-08-31T21:48:00.011-05:00

We've had a great summer. Just a quick catch up post and then I'll do my best to be a better blogger!

*Trip to Arkansas in June for a family reunion and my 10 year high school reunion! Good Times...

*4th of July weekend we attended the Hall Family Reunion in Kansas City. The girls finally got to meet their Grandpa Gerald (Cory's Dad) and Great-Grandpa Roy and tons of other relatives Cory hadn't seen in 20+ years.

*On our way to Kansas City we stayed over in St Louis and went to the Arch. Katherine was FREAKED out, especially in the elevator. Kaydence was a little hesitant to look out the windows but Bridget screamed when we tried to take her away from the windows! LOL She was mesmerized at the views apparently.

*We finally took Kaydence's pacifier away at the end of July. She cried the first couple of days but she's fine now. The Paci Fairy came and took all her pacies and left her the biggest monkey I've ever seen and some sidewalk chalk.

*We bought Katherine and Kaydence bunk beds and they love 'em!

*Katherine started fall soccer with One Goal Sports. She had her first game August 29th and she was too cute! She just needs to stop trying to touch the ball with her hands.

*Katherine is starting preschool tomorrow! She is so excited. She already has her lunches planned for the week.

*Bridget is my bravest child! She is definitely into more stuff than her sisters ever were, of course THEY are the ones teaching her all of their tricks (good and bad). She flung herself out of the crib the other night and was trying to climb to the top bunk with Katherine. I don't know what to do with her!

I think that's it for now. I promise to try and update more often than every 4 months. Scouts Honor!

Mothers Day Weekend & Other Updates

2009-05-13T10:01:00.006-05:00

***THIS POST WAS SUPPOSE TO SHOW UP A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO AND DIDN'T. SORRY! And I'm not sure why that pic refuses to rotate but I've tried several times and it won't save it...I think its time for a new computer!!***

We had a fabulous weekend. First, Friday night we got a sitter (so glad we bought this house...the sitter lives right next door!!) and we had dinner and did some shopping without the girls! Its amazing how relaxing going out to eat can be when you don't have 3 little ones tugging at you. Plus, we got to eat our dinner while it was still HOT!!

Saturday I made a Nutter Butter Banana Pudding-FROM SCRATCH-for Cory's work cookout. We feel really blessed to be part of this company. They take great care of their employees and their families!

Sunday we missed church because we over-slept. Kaydence got in bed with me around 1 am and I got no sleep because she likes to dig herself into your back and its extremely uncomfortable. But it turned into a pretty awesome day. We had lunch and then Cory and the girls took me shopping--for MYSELF! I rarely get to do that so it was a real treat. Plus, the girls were amazingly good until right before we were ready to head home. I got a couple of new outfits and some SHOES (big surprise there, right?)!

Yesterday we registered Katherine for preschool! She is so excited and wanted to stay right then. I can't believe my girl is ready for preschool already. Just one more short year and she'll be registering for Kindergarten.

Now some pics---then I really have to get some laundry done (The bane of my existence, I tell ya!)

My Growing Babies

2009-04-23T10:48:00.001-05:00

Bridget's 1st Birthday was Friday (the 17th)and we had a ladybug cake! She promptly knocked her cake in the floor (carpet of course). She's a mess but we love her! I can't believe how fast this year flew by! She is already walking and trying so hard to talk. The doorbell rang the other day and I swear she said "who is it?"! She is very laid back and mellow and likes to watch her big sisters play. But she'll also get into everything so we have to keep a sharp eye on her.

Bridget went to the doctor on Monday (the 20th) and she weighs 19 lbs 5.9 oz and is 28.25 inches tall. She is almost back on her growth curve after falling way off just 6 months ago. She had to get 4 shots but, as always, she was back to her smiley self within seconds. She's my little ray of sunshine!

Kaydence had her 2 year check up Wednesday,the 22nd (yes, 2 months late!). She weighs 28.2 lbs and is 35.25 inches tall. Apparently she's tall and skinny compared to other kids her age. She had to have 2 shots and have her hemoglobin (sp?)and lead checked. She went around the rest of the day saying "I got shot." LOL She is talking nonstop these days and has a huge vocabulary but we are a little concerned about her articulation so she's having her speech evaluated.

Kaydence is our little monkey. She loves to climb and run and jump. Her favorite 'indoor' activity is coloring--on my walls and doors! No more unsupervised coloring--Mommy now knows better!

Katherine is doing great. She's going to start a pre-K/Mothers Day Out in the fall. She so excited about going to school!

The new house is great. I'll post pics soon. We are almost completely unpacked and settled--can you believe it?!

Cory and I are doing well. He's still working at a job site in Winchester and I think he's enjoyed it. Mary Kay is going great too. I've had a few set-backs and some hurdles but overall it has been an amazing experience.

I'm really trying to be a better blogger! I think I still have some work to do!

LOVES!!

MOVING!!!

2009-03-17T08:03:00.003-05:00

We closed on our house yesterday! We bought the paint for the girls' bedroom and their bathroom. I'll be moving a few things today and tonight we'll shampoo carpets and get started on the paint. We are all so excited and ready to be IN the new house!! I'll be posting before and after pics so check back!

LOVES!!

Haaaallelujah

2009-03-06T16:46:00.002-06:00

We paid rent for the FINAL time this week! We are just 10 short days away from closing on our first home. The inspection was on Wednesday and it went well. There are a few things that need to be fixed but overall I think we're getting an amazing house. Of course, I thought that already! I'm busy getting all the utilities turned on and pack, pack, packing!

Have a fabulous weekend!!

LOVES!!

Busy

2009-03-04T00:05:00.006-06:00

So, its been over a month since I last posted and in that month we decided we were ready to buy a house (no more throwing our money away on rent!). We found a house and we'll be closing on March 16th!! So much to do and not much time to do it in. Our lease is up at the end of the month so we'll have two weeks to move. My Mom and sister are coming up March 2oth and staying until the 24th. My Mom and sis are going to help me paint and my Mom will watch the girls while us young folk do the heavy lifting!

Prayers and fingers crossed all things go smoothly. Our inspection is tomorrow (well, today since its after midnight...I should be in bed!) and if that goes well then we'll get the appraisal set up. We don't see any reason this all won't go very smoothly and without hesitation but you really never know. I'll post pics as soon as we are in. There will be lots of before and after pics because I have big plans in my head! We'll see how much Cory is on board once we get in there...LOL!

Kaydence also had her 2nd birthday. I made her a monkey cake. No party...she's not that into groups of people anyway. We did take her to Red Robin and they sang to her. I don't think she really knew what to think of that situation!

LOVES!!

New house!

Catching Up

2009-01-29T13:37:00.005-06:00

Since I haven't been around for a while I thought I'd catch everyone up! We had a wonderful Christmas. We stayed home and it was so relaxing! I really missed my family but it was nice not having to pack and travel.

We got a puppy!!!!! He's a black & white border collie and we named him MacGyver. We're working on housetraining...he peed on my foot yesterday so I'm not sure how well its going!

We are taking Kaydence's paci...that isn't going too well either. She goes around saying "paaaaci, paaaaci!" She only gets it when she's sleeping and she gets really ticked when she wakes up and can't keep it. We also think potty training is riiiight around the corner. She tells me after right after she pees or poops. I hope it happens soon! Two in diapers is expensive.

Bridget is doing well. She's up to 14 lbs 14 oz. She goes back to the doctor in April for her 12 month check up. She is sleeping through the night and is learning to use a sippy cup! She makes a mess with it but likes whats in it (we always use diluted juice to help with the learning process).

Katherine is little miss sassy! I don't know how my Mom put up with me and my sister's smart mouths. One minute I want to hug her she's so sweet and the next I want to send her off to boarding school in Switzerland. Seriously...She'll be starting Mothers Day Out in the fall...maybe I'll get some of my sanity back!

Cory and I are doing fine. He has been back out in the garage building furniture...yay!! He's building me two coffee tables/storage cubes/ottomans. We designed them and they are going to be awesome...I can't wait. I've been working on my MK business and trying to keep from pulling my hair out during these cold winter months.

I'll post pics soon!

LOVES!!!

Its 11 pm, do you know where the cops are?

2009-01-22T00:56:00.002-06:00

They were at MY house checking to make sure Bridget had the right prescription! Yeah, you read that right.

I am really ticked right now. This evening we picked up a RX for Bridget for an ear infection. Well, here I sit at 11 pm and there comes a loud knock at our door. I get Cory out of bed and we answer the door to find a police officer. Apparently the pharmacy screwed up and gave Bridget's RX to someone else (when I picked it up it was "missing" and I had to wait on them to fill it again). Our original RX went home with another man whose daughter had strep throat. Luckily he realized before he gave it to his dd that it had OUR daughter's name on it (along with our home address...talk about a personal safety issue!). I guess he called the police and gave them the info, I don't know.

I'm calling tomorrow and giving someone a piece of my mind but what else? I am beyond pissed! I'm sitting here at 1130 pm still trying to get my heartrate to slow because 1) a policeman was at my door at 11 pm, 2) I was freaking out thinking I had given my child the wrong Rx and 3) someone has our home address and knows we have a young daughter (I don't think this is a danger but it COULD have been, ya know?).

At this point I'm shaking I'm so mad. You have to trust your pharmacy as much as you trust your doctor (if not more so)! We're definitely changing pharmacies but I feel like this could have ended so much worse!

Sorry I haven't posted in a while, trying to get on top of that!

Bridget seems fine by the way. We only knew she had an ear infection because she had her 9 month check up. She's finally up to 14 lbs 14 oz and growing! My littlest monkey is doing well.

Katherine's 4th Birthday!!!!

2008-12-01T14:21:00.005-06:00

We were in Arkansas for Katherine's 4th birthday so we had a party at my Mom's. The theme was Transformers! She went back and forth between Princess & Transformers--Transformers won. She was so excited her cousins got to come to her birthday party. They even went to my Mom's neighbor's to see his donkeys! Thanks, Dr Justice! She was exhausted at the end of the day.

I can't believe my baby is 4 years old already! Four years ago today we brought her home from the hospital and it seems like just yesterday! She is growing into a very smart, beautiful, independent little girl and we are so proud of her!

Here is a link to a slide show~Enjoy!

Katherine's 4th Birthday!

LOVES!!

Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T09:28:00.005-06:00

We decided to head to Arkansas for Thanksgiving this year instead of Christmas. Much less stress for us! Anyhow, we had a great time. We left the boro at 7 pm on Wednesday (the 26th) and got to my Mom's in Malvern at 2 am! By the time we got unloaded and settled into bed it was 3 am. We spent Thanksgiving Day at my Mammaw & Pappaw's. This was the first holiday that all my my siblings were together in a long time. We took lots of pics so I'll quit boring you with words and let ya have a peek! I made slide shows because I took nearly 200 pics just on Turkey Day! ~LOVES~

I think you'll have to click to see them. I couldn't figure out how to get them to actually load in the blog...one of these days I'll have it all figured out!

Snapshots--Thanksgiving 2008
Family Pics 2008

Fun Weekend

2008-11-23T23:53:00.008-06:00

We had a Mom's Group meet up on Friday and the girls had so much fun! They played dress up, beat up on each other and had a good time! Kaydence & Katherine dressed up as Elmo & Cookie Monster. After the play date we went to McDonald's for lunch with Jennifer and her kids. We left our house @ 9:45 and didn't get home until 3. The girls were all worn out. The little ones took naps and Katherine watched Wizard of Oz (her new fave).

Friday night we had to call the cops. We were driving behind an erratic driver. Then, as we were almost home, they threw a bottle of water out the window AT A CAR! So Cory called 911 and we gave them the license number, but that wasn't enough. We had to FOLLOW said car. As we followed them they kept turning off all the lights and driving in the dark. Turns out it was a bunch of teenagers (explains the stupidity). The driver dropped his friends off and headed back toward town where the trooper pulled him over. He admitted that they had thrown the bottle out the window. They couldn't really charge him with anything (unless the car they threw the bottle at were to call and report) but they were calling his parents.

My issue is this, what if the car they threw the bottle at had panicked and lost control of their car and hit us? What if while they were being ignorant they had lost control of their car and hurt someone? When will people learn that their stupidity doesn't only effect themselves? It could also negatively effect someone else as well. I hope my nephew, who turns 16 next month, is a little more responsible. Hey, a girl can dream, right?

I had a Holiday Sale with two other ladies who have at home businesses. We had Mary Kay, Tupperware, Creative Memories & Thirtyone bags there. It was pretty much a bust but at least I got out of the house and got to chat with adults for a while! If you need any of these services let me know and I'll get you the information.

We had church today but nothing exciting happened.

We have a busy week ahead. We have MOPS tomorrow and I have two MK meetings this week. We're heading to Arkansas on Wednesday night when Cory gets home. Again, not looking forward to the drive there and back but I'm ready to see my family!

I'll post pics later. Blogger doesn't seem to like my pictures right now!

LOVES!!!

My Budding Photographer

2008-11-20T07:55:00.007-06:00

Katherine got a kids digital camera last year for her birthday and she can't seem to get it out of our faces! Here a a few of her most recent pictures, I think Daddy took one of them with her camera.

LOVES!

Bridget Update

2008-11-19T23:51:00.000-06:00

Bridget is now 12 lbs 10 oz. She is now up about a 1.5 lbs from her 6 month appt and Dr Lowe took her off the high-calorie formula! She seems to have so much more energy now, which is crazy because she was pretty darn energetic before. Continue to keep her in your prayers that she keeps the weight on and continues to do well. LOVES!

Updates & Sick Babies

2008-10-27T14:34:00.000-05:00

Bridget had her 6 month appt on Wednesday, October 22nd. She had lost 5 oz in two months so we were put on Preemie/High Calorie formula because the Dr thinks she wasn't getting enough through breastfeeding. We go back Monday, November 3rd and hopefully she will have gained weight. If not we will have to do other tests so we could all use your prayers on that front.

We could also use your prayers for all three girls at the moment! All of the girls have been vomiting since Sunday morning. Katherine argued that she wasn't sick because she didn't want to miss church. Cory stayed home from work today to help out and all four of my babies are now asleep in living room. If Bridget isn't better by morning I'll be taking her back to the Dr because she can't really afford to lose weight over this.

We had a great trip to Arkansas and are so glad to be home. Prayers over me as I try to build my MK business would be much appreciated!

LOVES!!

Away We Go

2008-10-14T16:16:00.000-05:00

I have been a Mary Kay Consultant for just over a year and I love it! This weekend is our annual retreat. My area's retreat is in Van, TX, so the girls and I are headed to Arkansas tomorrow morning where they will be staying with Granny and Aunt Brittney while Mommy gets some much needed time away! I am not, however, looking forward to the drive from Middle TN to Central AR (and back again) alone with the girls! Prayers for sanity and patience would be much appreciated.

LOVES!!

Starting Out

2008-10-14T16:11:00.000-05:00

I've decided to start a blog because my mom, in Arkansas, loves new pics of the girls but I don't always have time to send them. Now she can get on the blog and see new pics and I don't have to worry about whether I've missed someone when sending out pics. Also, its so much easier to keep up with one blog rather than myspace, facebook or other member type sites and tons of emails.

I'm new to blogging so bear with me as I get use to something new, I don't handle change very well!

LOVES!!