The Adventures of Shortstack and Little Miss Sunshine

Contemplating

2010-05-04T00:21:00.002-04:00

So I haven't posted in quite a while. Oops. Life has been busy. I've been busy. Same stuff, different day, etc.
And I'm getting tired of the same stuff different day. I guess everyone does. That's why vacations were created right?
So I have started to really focus on taking pictures. I absolutely love everything there is about being behind the camera. I love getting lost in the borders of a possible picture. I adore focusing in on the things you don't normally focus on....a freckle, a hint of green in an eye, the way light hits the sand, etc. Boring to most, I know. But to me, it's amazing. I could snap away all day and be perfectly happy.
My close friends know this...and tolerate it pretty well. They also have been encouraging me to take it more seriously.
And so I think that I am going to.....Yes, I still want I better camera (I currently have a very high end "point and shoot". love it but really need / want a dslr). and yes, I need some schooling and a lot more experience. But everyone has to start somewhere right!?! So I'll keep you posted on my progress.
Also - here is an album of some of my favorites. Let me know what you think!!!

Snow Day

2010-01-09T14:36:00.002-05:00

Christmas rewind

2010-01-09T13:31:00.003-05:00

Thanksgiving was great. Christmas was great. I am ready for a great 2010! I am currently trying to clean up my house from the aftermath of the stomach bug going through both kids. Not my idea of a fun Saturday, but oh well. Needs to be done. Wanted to share some quick pictures from the holidays. Enjoy!!

the great outdoors

2009-11-20T18:49:00.004-05:00

Bryan and I took the kids hiking and fishing along the Hooch a week or so ago. They both adored being outside and exploring along the river. The weather here is absolutely gorgeous right now...chilly at night and warm during the day. Perfect weather for going on an outdoor adventure! Both kids (along with Bryan) caught a trout. We even brought 2 home and ate them with dinner. Bryan really enjoyed showing them how to clean a fish...something I am not a huge fan of!! Callie decided that while she adores worms, she is not a huge fan of fish (note the picture below). Hope you are enjoying the Fall as much as we are!!

Halloween with friends

2009-11-08T23:19:00.003-05:00

We had a great Halloween this year. The kids had a blast. They were so excited about having a Halloween party and trick or treating but I think they were most excited to have their closest friend Cody coming to stay the weekend. Just recently my friend Mary Glenn and her family moved to South Georgia. Bummed doesn't even describe how we felt about the move. So the kids were over the moon when they heard that they were coming up for Halloween! We had the GA vs Fla party at my house (MG usually does it) and then we turned it into a Halloween party followed by trick or treating. So. Much. Fun!! Of course they were adorable in their costumes and yes, Callie did go as Darth Vader. Some of our friends brought a four wheeler and trailer filled with hay and the kids (and adults!) enjoyed a hay ride while trick or treating. The next day Callie asked me when we could do Halloween again. When I told her next year she sighed and said "okay, but I want to be spider-man next year". Hmmmm.....we will have to see about that one :)

0 to 60 in 3 Days

2009-10-28T21:07:00.002-04:00

This past weekend I went 0 to 6o in 3 days....sixty miles closer to a cure. This was my 3rd walk. That means that I have walked 180 miles over the course of 9 days. How crazy is that!?! So many people ask why I am involved with this amazing cause. And it's so hard to articulate an answer. Unless you have been there and felt the emotion. Seen the stream of people stretching out on either side of you. Danced through an intersection. Laughed at the size of a blister. Hugged a friend that has taken the journey with you. Watched a fellow walker cross the finish line with tears in her eyes and a smile on her face with the knowledge that she has been cancer free and healthily for 4 years. There are no words to really describe the feeling or the rawness of the moments. But they are wonderful and life altering. And I wouldn't trade the blisters and soreness for anything in the world.

fall in GA

2009-10-18T10:27:00.004-04:00

It is officially fall in GA. The air has turned a bit chillier, the leaves are starting to change, and the traffic in the north Georgia mountains in backed up for miles. Last Saturday we decided to brave the traffic and head north for some fall fun. We headed to an apple orchard for some apple picking and lots of other fun activities. The kids had an absolute blast! They both loved running around the orchard, trying to find the biggest apples for our bag. They also loved the pony rides, milking a cow, chasing chickens, and watching the pigs race.

On the way home we saw a sign for an exotic deer farm. Exotic deer in the north Georgia Mountains? Kinda weird right? I thought so too, but of course we had to go check it out. So we paid the 15 dollars to get in. It was great. They had all kids of deer, pigs, horses, and llamas. The kids loved the fact that we got to take a "hayride" and feed the animals right out of our hands. And the money goes to help the deer rescue so it was for a good cause. I'm sure we will be going back soon.
We finally headed home but had to make one more stop to get a pumpkin. We avoided Burts Farm and stopped at a smaller pumpkin patch that was a lot less crowded. The kids enjoyed picking out a small pumpkin to paint and a large pumpkin to carve. They did not enjoy my attempt to get group photo. Oh well, can't win them all :)
Fall might be my favorite time of year. I think it is because of all of the wonderful memories I have from my childhood....apple picking, jumping in leaves, drinking cider, and so many others. As a mom, I want my kids to have the same types of wonderful memories. The kind that stay vivid and bright and don't fade into black and white. And I have a feeling that this day might be one of those vivid memories. And that makes me glad.

Bryce the Barber

2009-10-17T13:25:00.002-04:00

Bryce decided that he was going to be a barber last weekend. His first client.....Callie! While she was very happy with the look he created, I was not. So we took a quick trip to Pigtails and Crew Cuts. Thankfully, they were able to fix most of the damage. She still has a layer (luckily not a very obvious one) of hair that is really short. I am missing her long hair, but she does look really cute with a chin length bob. And just in case you were interested in Bryce's services as a barber...he is no longer in business!!

baseball and life lessons

2009-09-30T09:39:00.004-04:00

We are in the middle of fall baseball. I am loving it. Bryce has played at this park for several seasons now. I am familiar with the fields, with the schedules, and with a lot of other parents (tends to happen when you have been on 3 different teams). I like familiarity. And I really like that I get to spend a couple of hours with a few moms that I have become friends with over the last 2 seasons. Callie loves baseball too. We made sure that Bryce got on the same team with another boy that has a sister Callie's age. They became instant friends last season and she is very excited to be able to hang out with her again this season. So everyone is excited.....except for the baseball player himself. He started off excited. Then "it" happened. "It" being getting hit in the face with a baseball. "It" has completely changed his view on baseball. He no longer wants to play. He begs me to let him stay home. He tells me he wishes I had signed him up for soccer. The latest is he wants to play tennis because tennis balls are a lot softer. It's so frustrating to see him loathing something that only a month ago was one of his favorite things. So I have stood my ground and not let him quit. And I have told him that the more he plays the less scared he will be. Last night as I was tucking him in he asked "mom, don't you care that I'm scared?". Hard question. Really hard question. After much thought I told him that yes, I do care that he is scared. But one of the best lessons he can learn is to not run from fear. Sometimes you just have to take a deep breath and face your fears. I told him that sometimes you will find that the thing you are scared of isn't scary at all. That it is fun!! And I reminded him how scared he was to ride his bike, which is now one of his favorite things to do. He just shrugged his shoulders and shook his head. Kind of a deep lesson for a six year old. But it's one I hope he learns.

Here are some pictures from the season so far.... and notice that once he gets there he still smiles and has fun!!

disco fever and fever minus the disco

2009-09-25T21:34:00.003-04:00

There is a lot of "fever" going around our house these days. Callie has been sick all week. Went to the doctor on Tuesday and they said possible flu and to keep a really close eye on her. Thursday I got the feeling that something just wasn't right (fever was 103.5, coughing was increasing, and she started throwing up) so I called the pediatrician and thankfully they squeezed us in. The diagnosis....pneumonia. Today was the 5th day of fever, coughing, etc. We are really hoping that the medicine kicks in and she starts improving tomorrow. For the most part she is a really happy sick kid, but she is extra whiny this week and goes to tears at the drop of a hat. I know she is getting stir crazy as is her mom!!!
Tonight Bryce got his own kind of fever....disco fever!!! They had a disco night at his school as a fundraiser for the PTA. We worked hard to find just the right outfit and the end result was pretty good. And I got an extra laugh at the fact that he wore girls jeans (slim at that!) to his first ever school dance. I really wanted to go but with Callie sick and Bryan working there was just no way. Thankfully the mom of a friend from school and baseball was happy to let Bryce tag along with them. The report at the end of the night?....he had a blast. And I was told that he is quite the dancer and a huge hit with the girls. Thank goodness he got his rhythm from me and not his dad!!!

Wishing

2009-09-17T22:26:00.003-04:00

Bad Week..Really bad week. Not going to go into specifics but ranks right up there with most stressful bad weeks. ever. So there's that. And it has me thinking and wishing tonight for lots of things.... Wishing that instead of being in rainy Ga, I was here..

Or here....

So here's to wishing. But you know, wishing can only get you so far. So I'm thankful for being blessed with great family and friends. No wishing needed in that department!!!

New beginnings

2009-09-13T21:26:00.004-04:00

So I know I haven't blogged in like, forever. My crazy, busy life has been getting in the way of certain things. One of which is blogging. So I am not going to go back and rehash the summer, and the beginning of school, and all of the wonderful things that we have been up to. I will just try my best to keep it up to date from here on out. And for those few people that are interested, I will post a couple of my favorite photo's from the past several months.

First Days of School...

The Beach

vacation here we come...

2009-07-10T19:55:00.003-04:00

We leave in the morning for a much needed vacation. Where, you ask? To Alligator point, Fl. Don't worry if you have no earthly idea where that is. I didn't either until we started looking for places to go. Just in case you are curious, Alligator point is located south of Tallahassee on the gulf. It is a really, really small peninsula. So small that the house where we are staying sits directly on the beach and directly across the driveway is the bay! We will be surrounded by water and I can not wait!! It should only be a five hour drive to Tallahassee (where we will pick up Lauren at the airport) and another hour or so to the beach. Oh, and here is a picture of the house where we will be staying...pretty nice!!

Ketchup

2009-07-09T22:51:00.005-04:00

Life had been crazy, busy, chaotic, and fun lately. I have not had a spare moment to think, let alone blog. So today is "ketchup" day. Thought it might be a good idea to bring everyone up to speed before we leave for the beach on Saturday. I can not wait to sit in the sand with a drink and a good book. The kids are both at an age where they can play without needing me next to them at every moment. and it will help that there will be 5 other adults there to help entertain them. Relaxation here I come!! But back to ketchup....The kids both had their birthdays and we had a fabulous joint "Princess and Pirates Party". Fun was had by all and the kids enjoyed getting to spend time with their friends. I can't believe that they are 3 and 6! They are such wonderful, amazing, funny, smart kids and I thank God for them every second of everyday. How strange is it that I had 29 years on this earth before kids and yet I can't seem to remember what life was like without them. Nor would I want to. Being their mom is such a privilege and even in it's hardest moments I am so grateful to have been given this "job". Bryce and Callie both went to summer camp at their school and had a fourth of July parade...it was so cute! We have also spent some more time at the lake with friends. This is one of my favorite summer activities!! Callie is loving her new "big girl bike" and Bryce got a new hair cut, a faux hawk. So, that's it in a nut shell. Enjoy the pics of my 2 cuties and come back soon to see what is going on with us at the beach....did I already say I can't wait :)

swim lessons

2009-06-15T23:52:00.006-04:00

The kids both started swim lessons today....

take a guess...

which child loved it...

and which child hated it...

Hard to figure out wasn't it!!!

fun in the summer time

2009-06-15T23:33:00.004-04:00

We are having a fun and busy summer. The busy part being pretty obvious with the lack of blog updates!! Here are some photo's from the past couple of weekends....lake fun with cousin JJ, birthday parties, and fun in the sprinkler. There have been many other fun and exciting things but I have been pretty slack at getting my camera out. Weird, I know.

my little ballerina

2009-06-06T12:27:00.003-04:00

Callie took her first dance class this week. She is taking ballet and tap once a week at her school. My mom took her to get her first ballet and tap shoes the week before and she was so excited! The day of her class she seemed a little apprehensive but joined in pretty quickly. It helps that 2 of her best friends from school are in the class....and they are all just so adorable in their little dance shoes and leotards. Having a girl is so much fun!!

Day in the mountains

2009-05-30T01:18:00.006-04:00

MG and I took the kids up to the mountains yesterday for and adventure. I think we had as much fun as the kids did. It brought back memories of past road trips and made us both ready to go on a few more.

First stop....strawberry picking!! The kids didn't get into it as much as I thought they would. Bryce and Cody saw a spider and after that it was all downhill with me and MG doing most of the picking. Despite the spiders and the lack of participation from the under 6 crowd, it was still tons of fun!

Next stop...picnic and exploring. We found a great spot in a WMA (wilderness management area) right by a river / stream. We ate, the kids played, and a good time was had by all. The water was ridiculously cold. Like ice. But the boys didn't seem to mind too much. After eating and playing we drove a little way to a beautiful waterfall where the boys did a little swimming / wading. When they finally decided they had had enough (I think the blue lips and chattering teeth were a sure sign) we changed clothes and piled back into the car.

Last stop....ice cream! We found an adorable cafe /dessertery in a small town called Dahlonega and decided to get the kids a treat on the way home. No better way to end a great trip then with a little ice cream!

last weekend rewind

2009-05-30T00:51:00.004-04:00

I have come to realize that my blogging comes and goes in spurts....some weeks blogging a couple times a week and some weeks not blogging at all. Last week was a no blog week so I thought I would do a quick catch up...

Friday his bff spent the night, Saturday I took Cody home and MG and I made cupcakes for his bday party, Sunday was Cody's bday party (bowling!) and then we hung out at their house all night being silly and playing rock band (yes...call me a dork but don't knock it till ya try it), and Monday we went out on the lake with Sherri, her mom and dad, MG, Bryan, and all the kiddos's. Fun and busy weekend!!

obsessed

2009-05-17T20:54:00.004-04:00

I'm obsessed with taking pictures of my kids. I know it. But I just can't help it....they are too cute!! Luckily they tolerate my obsession pretty well (Callie more then Bryce thus more photos of her). Enjoy!!

another year gone

2009-05-15T18:32:00.004-04:00

Today was Callie's last day of 2 yr old preschool. How has another year past so quickly!?! She has changed so much this past year and is really turning into a sweet, independant, confident little girl. When we started the year she was in diapers and speaking in short sentences. Now she is 100% potty trained (yay!!!) and speaks very well. Maybe too well.....she never stops talking!! I am so excited that all of her close friends will be returning next year and more then likely, they will be in the same class (Hopefully Ms. Erin's class...Bryce's teacher when he was 3). Here are some pictures of her from today.

bittersweet day

2009-05-15T18:02:00.003-04:00

It was a bittersweet day today. Bryce is officially no longer in preschool. Not sure how I feel about this. On one hand I am so excited for what his future holds and can't wait to see how he does in kindergarten. And on the other hand I am sad that he is so big. so grown up. I want him to stay in the small loving school where everyone knows him by name. Where they sing songs about God and learn to pray. I want to freeze time. But what parent has not wished this?

The program was cute and sweet and I did not cry. If you must know I was getting to frustrated with my camera (which was not working correctly) to let the moment sink in. They sang songs, said the months in Spanish, counted in french and German, and said something in another language that I really am not too sure about. They then walked across the stage, got their diplomas and then proceeded to use them as telescopes. After all of the pomp and circumstance was finished we had a pizza party and visited with friends one last time. Great day.

Tonight, when tucking him in, I will be thankful that he is still small enough to tuck in. And I will tell him how proud I am of him. Proud of how smart, and funny, and sweet he is. Proud that he is thoughtful of others and a good friend. And how proud I am to be his mom

and it's finally over...

2009-05-15T17:22:00.004-04:00

Baseball is finally over, and I can't believe I am saying this but I am sad to see it end. The kids didn't want it to end either. Several of them cried after we lost the semi-finals last night, upset that there would be no more baseball games. We were on the most fantastic team this season. The coaches did an amazing job and all of the kids made such improvements. I also really enjoyed the other parents (and if you have ever done kids sports, you know how important this is!). I am really excited that one of Bryce's teammates is probably going to be in his class next year (we are both applying for the multiage class). He is a great kid and Bryce is so happy that he might have a friend at his new school!! Callie is going to miss seeing her friend Amy (calls her "my Amy") several nights a week. I think she might miss baseball more then Bryce!! Our team party is on Sunday and I am sure I will have pictures to share!!

fountain fun

2009-05-09T21:58:00.012-04:00

Bryce's friend Cody spent most of the day with us today. Bryce has a baseball game, the first of the tournament. It was really, really, hot outside and the game was super long (they do not allow ties in tournament play so we ended up playing 2 extra innings). The kids were all super hot so I decided to stop at the fountains in Town Center to let the kids play. They had a blast and I took way too many pictures...

If you want to see all of the pictures I took (yes...there are more!) then you can go here>>>

Suwanee Fountians

letting go

2009-05-07T21:38:00.004-04:00

Today was a big day in the Thornton household. Callie had her very first end of the year music program. She did a great job and sang her little heart out. So cute. We then had muffins with Mom in her classroom. She was so excited to have me sit next to her, drink juice out of a dixie cup, and eat muffins and cheese puffs. I absolutely love her teachers and the other kids and parents. I feel blessed to have found such a wonderful place for her to learn, grow, and make friends.

I also feel blessed that Bryce has had 3 great years at the same school. Next year will be his first year in public school....it's off to Kindergarten!! Today was registration at the school where he will attend next year. He was so excited and I am trying my best to get him ready to go to "big school". They did a really great job at the school and it all went really smoothly. I was a little overwhelmed but feel like it will be a good fit for him. We are lucky that it is going to be a really small school (only around 650 students...small for our county) and the teachers and principal are great. I already signed up for PTA and am hoping to meet some parents and help out as much as possible. We are also going to several school related things next week...kindergarten round-up, an RTI meeting to discuss Bryce's learning issues, and a meeting regarding the possibility of putting him in a multi age class (k and 1st together...he would stay in the same class with the same teacher for 2 years). My favorite moment was when Bryce in a very serious tone told Callie..."today mommy is signing me up for college". I had to correct him and he quickly said "well kindergarten and college are almost the same thing". I guess in regards to a mom learning to let go, they really aren't that different....smart kid.

Not Me Monday

2009-05-04T11:55:00.002-04:00

I love Not Me Mondays! It's a great way to share all of the crazy things that do( or should I say do not?) happen. After a short break, it's back. This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.

When I needed a gift for a birthday party I most certianly did not take Bryce's new unopened lego kit he got for Easter and wrap it up. And when I realized that no one else was bringing presents (it was a birthday party for a 5 year old...aren't you supposed to bring a gift?), there is no way that I opened it up and put it back in his room.

*When I got behind on laundry last week (on a side note..when am I not behind on laundry?) and Callie ran out of clean underwear, there is no way I raided her brothers drawer and found a pair of 3T boxer briefs for her to wear.

*My life is not crazy at all. And there is no way that last week I put a roast in the crock pot for dinner and then completely forgot about it. Later that afternoon I didn't tell Bryan we needed to go out for dinner because I had nothing planned. Upon returning from dinner, we did not smell yummy roast, perfectly cooked!! Really...who in the world is so busy that they forget they already had dinner cooking!?!

*And my favorite!! I am not over to moon excited that we have 3 car payments left and just paid off all of our credit cards :) And we are not excited at all that he finally has a steady job and has been working crazy overtime to get us caught up on all the bills. And we didn't take the kids out this weekend and spend way to much money having a family night out to celebrate!!

shopping trip favorites

2009-04-30T23:58:00.006-04:00

I met my mother in law at her Gymboree store today. It was a special employee sale and she wanted to get the kids a few things. Well, a few things turned into way too many things and the kids have a good start on their summer wardrobes. All of the items we got are adorable, especially the girl stuff, but there are a few items that I am in love with.....

Think she will let me borrow this? I adore it!! The girl loves purses...

Love these too. Too bad they don't make them in my size...

Perfect for Bryce....

life is baseball

2009-04-27T23:52:00.007-04:00

I feel like my life right now revolves around the baseball field. I can't imaging how people with multiple kids playing do it (my friend Heather has 3 boys and they had 17 days straight of baseball!!). When we aren't at the field for practice or a game, we are in the backyard practicing. Bryan is so excited that Bryce is able to play catch, hit his pitches, etc. And he (Bryce, not Bryan) is getting better everyday. He has improved so much since the very first practice. He is already upset that the season is almost over and we have a couple weeks left! Here are some of the latest pics from the last couple of games. oh, and one quick story from the last game. Bryce's team played the Angels. They are the #1 team in the league and are very, very good. I think pretty much every kid cranked one into the outfield off of a pitch every time at bat! When we were talking on the way home Bryce tells me, "Mommy, that team was called the Angels because they can hit the ball so high into the sky. But, they aren't really Angels...they are human". I love his perspective on things!!

spring in pictures

2009-04-17T22:47:00.008-04:00

When I think of spring I picture the world turning green and blooming around me. I still remember the first time we came to Georgia in the springtime. We were here looking at houses (I must have been 12), and spent the days riding around with a realtor. The dogwood trees were in bloom and I thought that they were the prettiest trees I had ever seen. I still think that they are. Here are pictures of my spring things...

Easter in pictures

2009-04-14T00:34:00.015-04:00

Way to late to write a post, so here is a review of our day in pictures. Can you tell that I love kids in hat!?!...

six flags

2009-04-10T13:58:00.013-04:00

My mom treated us by taking the kids and I to Six Flags yesterday. The kids have never been there and I was excited to share it with them. I still remember going with my mom, dad, and Jason when I was a kid. My dad took me on my first roller coaster (Rolling Thunder at Great Adventures) when I was probably around 7 or 8. I still remember the feeling of sheer joy when it was over. So much fun! So....we arrived yesterday at around 11am and stayed until just after 7pm. Long day, yes, but sooo much fun! Bryce loved everything about it....watching the big coasters, riding the rides, eating the food. It was like you could actually see him soaking it all in. I don't think he stopped smiling all day...he fell asleep with a huge grin on his face. Callie was in awe of everything. She is such an easy going child. Content to just sit in the stroller and watch the people and the world around her. Never fussing (okay...once when she was "denied" entrance to the kiddie swings because she was 2 inch's too short), she lasted until about an 1 hour before we left and then she passed out in the stroller. She constantly amazes me with her happy, easy going nature. Such a ray of sunshine all the time.

It is so different going with kids. I didn't ride one roller coaster (except for the "kiddie" one)! I was slightly surprised that this didn't bother me one bit. I had just as much fun watching the kids enjoy themselves. Seeing them laughing with joy was just as much fun as flying thru the air at ridiculous speeds. The only time I got frustrated was when Bryce wanted a lick of my $6 Ben and Jerry's ice cream cone. I knew he wouldn't like it, it was coffee with chocolate chunks and he solely likes vanilla, but I agreed to let him try it anyway. He took a huge lick and managed to "uncone" the ice cream, knocking the entire scoop (I had only taken a tiny bite) onto the ground. It was a count to ten moment. He apologized and almost started to cry and I quickly told him it was fine and I wasn't mad. But boy, I am still craving that ice cream! I might have to go and buy a pint of it tonight!!

Here are some pictures from the day....

Bryce on his favorite ride...The Log Jamboree

Still trying to figure out why they made me ride this with Callie. She is 2 inches short of the 36inch min. for a lot of the rides!

Mom and Bryce on the flying swings....looks like they are having fun!!

The Hanson cars...Bryce liked beig the driver

Riding on the Carousel was fun

The kids love the Thomas Ride

Sure sign of a fun filled day...

slowing down

2009-04-06T00:30:00.004-04:00

Slow down. I have been thinking this to myself for the last couple of months. Laying in bed at night wondering where the day went while my mind floods with all of the things I need to do the next day. I wake up running and fall asleep with my mind racing. You moms (especially the ones that work full time) out there know what I'm talking about. And I'm tired. And I feel like I'm missing out on something...but I can't quite wrap my mind around what that might be because I never stop long enough to figure it out.

Last week while dropping the kids off at preschool I had a brief conversation with Callie's teacher. We were talking about getting dishes done, and getting laundry done, and doing speech lessons, and scheduling doctors appointments. And then she told me that her mom gave her advice. "She said they will only be 2, or 5, or 11 for a short time. Ignore the other stuff every once in a while and concentrate on what matters".

I don't want to miss 2 and 5. I want to relish in it. Burn it in my memory so that in 20 years I can see it clear as glass. I don't want to remember the traffic, and the dirty car, and the housework. I want to remember how Bryce laughed when he felt the grass on his feet and how Callie likes cuddle on your lap with her thump stuck firmly in her mouth when she is tired.

So this week (spring break), I am taking a break. I have vowed to myself to only do the most necessary housework (dishes at night can't really be ignored!), to stop sitting with my laptop open in front of me, and to ignore the ringing phone. I will spend the days (except when working...can't really stop that!) doing activities the kids and being in the moment.

Today we spent the day having a picnic, playing wii, running in the yard, and taking a really long bubble bath (the kids, not me). I even allowed the jets with the bubbles (not usually allowed due to very messy past experiences). And when the kids yelled for me, squealing with delight, I did not get mad at the waterfall of bubbles flowing onto the floor. I laughed with them and took a picture. I am starting to really like the slower life.

Day at the park....

2009-04-05T16:47:00.003-04:00

We went to Sims park today with some friends. It was a great way to start off the kids spring break. We have been having awful weather and they are expecting it to turn cold and rainy again, so it was nice taking advantage of a nice day. The kids love this great new park! They have a "river" the kids can play in and it ends in a small lake. Bryce and Syd played on the rocks on the edge of the lake until Syd fell in!! Luckily it was warm enough for her to run around and dry off. Callie had fun trying to keep up with the "big kids". I can't believe that it's already spring. I adore this time of year. The dogwoods and azaleas are blooming, the grass is turning green, and the wonderful smell of fresh mowed grass is filling the air. I am loving the kids squeals as they experience everything blooming around them. and I also get to start wearing flip flops. I think that might be my favorite part of the warmer weather!! Here is a slideshow of pics I took today. Some of them came our really cute!! And I am in love with Syd and Brandon's curly hair...such cuties!!

one reason I love having a girl...

2009-04-05T15:55:00.004-04:00

I reason I love having a girl is doing her hair!! I am lucky enough that she tolerates this obsession pretty well. She sits still (or as still as a 2 year old can sit!) for as long as it takes me to finish my creation of the day. Yesterday was the first day I tried a french braid and it came out so cute I had to share!

worms

2009-04-04T01:19:00.005-04:00

I am really girly when it comes to certian things. More specifically, I hate bugs, spiders, snakes, and anything else that's creepy and crawly. and I hate worms. hate might be a little strong but I really dislike them. The thought of them makes my skin crawl. I remember not liking them as a child. My dad would take us fishing and I always refused to bait my hook. I think for a while he even stopped doing it for me just to see what I would do. I remember sitting there, bored out of my mind and wanting to join in the fishing fun, but headstrong that I would not touch a worm. So imagine my suprise today when Callie was helping Bryce dig up worms in the yard. She would then pick them up, tell them they were going to go into the blue bucket (a fact, I'm sure, that made them feel a lot better), and then carry them across the yard and deposit them lovingly into the bucket. When she asked me if I wanted to hold one, I politely declined, determined I would not pass my dislike onto my child. Bryan is thrilled at Callie's new found love of creepy crawlies. I think he dreaming about his first daddy / daughter fishing trip as I type this.

Callie and her worms....notice half smile on her face. She is completely at ease.

This is more the look that I expected...

egg hunt

2009-04-04T00:29:00.009-04:00

Today the kids had their egg hunts at school. It was quite chilly out, but you would never know it watching the kids laugh and run around. The kiddo's both had their own approach to the egg hunt. Callie found a few and then moved her attention elsewhere (she thought it would be a good idea to push her bunny bag on the swing...see video below). Bryce, on the other hand, was all business. He darted around grabbing as many eggs as he possibly could. The only disappointment of his hunt was realizing the eggs would be redistributed to make sure all the kids got the same amount. oh well!! It was a great way to celebrate the start of spring break!! I'm not sure what Bryce was more excited about...eggs filled with candy or an entire week of no school!!

tech savy, yep...that's me

2009-04-02T23:45:00.002-04:00

I am so proud of myself. Yes, I am singing my own praises. I was determined today to figure out how to create a photo link to my 3 day team's fundraising website. After a lot of googling and searching I finally figured it out! So check it out...My own Birdies for Breast Cancer button / link (it's on the right hand column of this page about halfway down). And while your at it, click on it and check out my 3 day team's event / fundraising page. We are currently working on the golf tournament (yes, I know I said I would never do it again). Last year we had 40 golfers and this year we are hoping to up it to 60. More golfers = more money raised!! So........do you want to help me out? If you are reading this and you happen to be a blogger, would you consider adding my button to your blog sidebar? I can email you the html code and even give you the steps on how to add it. Also...if you happen to be reading this and you have your own website (business, private, or otherwise), maybe you could add it? I am trying to come up with creative ways to spread the word about our upcoming tournament and figured this might be one way.

I am now going to bed. Singing your own praises can be exhausting :)

do something

2009-03-29T23:29:00.006-04:00

This week officially kicked off my 2009 3 day. Yes...I am walking again. Why?.....well, why wouldn't I. I have been thinking about this a lot lately and have come to these conclusions.

It is important to do something.

It is important to try to make the world a better place.

It is important to stand up for people that can not stand up for themselves.

and it is important to show your kids how to do these things.

Anne Frank once said "how wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world". Last year the 3 day raised $110 million dollars. Every cent of that money was raised by people just like me that decided to do something. People that did what Anne Frank was talking about and stopped waiting. How amazing is that!

My kids and I always have the radio on in the car. Just recently they started playing the 3 day commercials. You probably know the ones. They always play the song "I wanna do something that matters...". Well, this year, every time Bryce hears them he says "that's what you do mommy. That's your race. You help people that are sick" (this is how we have tried to explain the walk and my absence for the 3 days). So...I know that he is getting it. He is understanding that it is important to help others. And I hope one day he finds his own "do something".

On a much lighter note....I got my fist 2 donations this week! Thanks Cheryl and Nancy. You both rock! I am a little less nervous about the fundraising because of yall!

We also had our first big team fundraiser....A Texas holdem tournament!! It went really well and we raised around $1,300. Everyone had fun. My friend Jennifer was the last women standing and came in 3rd out of 47 players!! Thanks to all of you that came out to support us. We decided to have shirts made this year to wear and to sell. I love them! We are selling them for $10 so if you are interested please let me know.

I'm sure that I will have many more posts about the 3 day and my fundraising and training journey. If you would like to help out and make a donation please click on the 3 day widget on the right and it will take you to my personal page. Each walker has to raise a minimum of 2,300 this year, so I need all the help I can get!!

Four of the five members of this years 3 day team

Love our shirt design!! If you want to buy one please let me know.

All of the money goes to the 3 day and it is a great way to advertise this amazing cause.

How did I miss that!?!

2009-03-29T22:53:00.003-04:00

Bryce had a baseball game today. It was 44 degrees outside and Callie was exhausted (as was I) so I decided to keep her home and let her take a really long nap. We both slept for 3 hours and woke up to Bryce babbling excitedly about his baseball game. Turns out, he hit his first double off of a pitch and he fielded extremely well. The coach decided that his great playing deserved the game ball. Yes...my child received the game ball the one game that I decided to miss. And to make it worse he kept saying "Mom, I wish you could have seen me". I felt awful. worse then awful. I know that I will not always be there for every event of his life. He will have tons of accomplishments that I will get to hear about, but not witness first hand. I guess that's one of the hard parts of being a parent. And tonight when I tucked him in he must have sensed that it really bothered me. He said "I love you mom. it's okay that you weren't there today". I love you too Bryce...more then you can fathom.

what a wonderful world...

2009-03-26T21:00:00.004-04:00

Callie's world is full of princesses, dress-up, and make believe. She loves everything about them. She wears tutu's to school and when we get home she serves me tea and donuts on little plastic plates. Walking around the kitchen in tiny snow white heels, carrying the purse of the day and wearing a crown is a very normal occurrence in her world. She loves wearing her "princess" pajama's (thanks Crystal for the great pj's!) to bed and will tell me every night which one is her favorite. I never thought that I would love all of the "girly" stuff, but i adore it. I know that soon her love of tutu's will fade and tea parties will be a thing of the past. Her view of the world will change from fairy tales and princesses to something not as wonderful. My view on the world, however, has gotten a little brighter lately....Tea parties on tiny chairs with plastic food and teddy bears puts life in a whole new perspective.

Honesty

2009-03-18T11:23:00.002-04:00

Bryce is the most honest child I know. He will just come right out and say whatever he is thinking. If he feels like he might get into trouble (i.e. Bryce...did you just draw on Maxi with markers?), he will just stand there and look at you. Here are two of my favorite examples of his brutal honesty..

Bryce: Mommy...can I have more twizzlers?
Me: No Bryce, you had enough.
5 min later...
Me: Bryce what are you doing?
Bryce: Me and Callie are trying to sneak twizzlers but you caught us.. Actually, we already snuck a couple before you caught us.

Two days ago, on a trip to stride-rite, Bryce decided to jump from a shoe display to a bench that was at least 5 ft away. It did not go as he planned. After a stern talking to, he had to apologize to the store clerk. Later that day we had the below conversation...
Me: Bryce! Please stop jumping off of the couch onto the ottoman. You know you are not allowed to do that. Didn't you learn your lesson at the shoe store today?
Bryce: Nope

from smiling to scary...

2009-03-17T11:15:00.021-04:00

Callie has a brand new talent. She can transform from an angel to a little monster in about 2 seconds flat! Most people that know her say "no way! To prove it to all of you non believers, I caught the transformation on film.....

She was all smiley letting me take her picture in her school picture outfit

She wanted to swing and laughed as she went higher and higher

Still smiling after five minutes

Immediately after the above picture was taken I tell her that I need to start dinner and I can not push her anymore...

From smiling to scary in 5 seconds flat...

Luckily the tantrums are short-lived....5 min later she was "over it" and decided playing with daddy would be just as much fun.

Not Me Monday

2009-03-16T10:55:00.005-04:00

Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.

I have done this once before but have gotten a little slack on the Monday blogging, so this week's "Not Me's" are from the past several weeks. Hope you enjoy reading all of the things that I certainly did not do, all of the things that I would never think of doing, and all of the slips and mis-steps from the past couple weeks of life in the Thornton house.

I most certainly did not squeal for joy when Bryce's first weekend of baseball activities got cancelled due to weather. What mother would wish that disappointment on her child? I can't imagine why I would rather spend a weekend at home getting caught up on housework and watching tv over sitting in the freezing cold at the ball field for hours on end.
I did not feed my children peanut butter sandwiches and McDonald's 3 days last week because I wanted to make it to the gym in time for my classes. My children eat well rounded, home cooked meals every night!
While meeting a friend and her kids at Chick-fil-a for a playdate, I did not get chatty and forget to ask Callie if she had to go potty. Since I didn't forget to ask her there is no way she had an accident in her pants and started running around the playground like John Wayne (picture a wide-stance cowboy walk). Seeing that my daughter is completely and utterly potty trained, there is no reason why I would need to bring a change of clothes to Chick-fil-A. Upon realizing the situation, there is no way I decided to strip her down and let her ride the 2 miles back to our house in whatever random clothes happened to be in the car. And then, when clothing is being removed I did not figure out that she had actually pooped and peed. What would any sane mom do in this situation? Well, she certainly would not line said child's carseat with plastic bags, insert dirty stinky child, and drive home all while said child was screaming "but I'm stinky!!".
Again, my child is completely and utterly potty trained. That being said... There is no way that she decided to pee and entire lake on the floor of World Market. And I did not park a buggy over the lake of pee while dragging/running/herding my children to the bathroom to get paper towels to clean up the accident. Do you realize how gross that is? A responsible person would notify the store so that they could correctly sanitize the mess. (I did wipe the floor with wet one's after the puddle was soaked up...that counts as sanitizing doesn't it?).
After a really hectic, crazy day there is no way that I told my husband my gym class started an hour earlier then it actually did. And with a whole entire hour to myself, I did not get a Starbucks and wander around Target before actually going to the gym.

Obama's in charge...

2009-03-08T11:58:00.002-04:00

One of my all time favorite (and maybe the funniest) things that Bryce has said...

Me: Bryce your are having Mac and Cheese for lunch

Bryce: But Mom... I don't like Mac and Cheese! I only like Sponge Bob Mac and Cheese

Me: Too Bad! and you do like Mac and Cheese...you eat it all the time. It might not be your favorite but that does not mean you do not like it. There are already enough foods that you will not eat and we are not adding Mac and Cheese to that list!

Bryce: You know Mommy, you are not the boss.

Me: Bryce, I am the boss and I will be until you grow up!

Bryce: Your wrong mommy, you are not the boss. Obama is the boss. He's in charge of the country so he is in charge of me. I am going to call him and tell him I don't want Mac and Cheese.

Take me out to the ball game...

2009-03-08T10:26:00.006-04:00

Baseball season officially kicked off this weekend. Saturday morning we had the opening day parade. Bryce and his team rode in the back of one the coaches trucks and they waved and threw candy. He had a great time and I actually enjoyed hanging out with the other moms, drinking coffee and eating munchkins while waiting on my own munchkin to ride by. Seeing that we had to get there at 6:50am I left a sleeping Callie at home with Bryan. She was a little disappointed that she didn't get to join in the fun but was satisfied with the leftover donuts (food is the way to that girls heart I tell ya).

Last night Bryce played his first two games of the season. He played really well and his team did a great job. He did not hit one off a pitch this game but hit really well from the tee. He also ran a lot better then he has in the past (sounds weird but he usually just kinda skips along. Fine in Rookie but not such a good thing in T-Ball). It is nice not having a "baby" at the games. I actually got to watch and cheer the team on. Five of the kids on the team have younger sisters so Callie has lots of little girls to play with. She also enjoyed cheering Bryce on. At one point, While walking from the circle to bat, he walked over to the fence where Callie was watching. She looked up at him and said "Gooooo Tyce (what she calls him)". He smiled at her and said "thanks Callie, I'm gonna hit it hard". My all time favorite moment of the game.

Bryce riding in the parade...notice the Skull and Cross Bone doo rags they wore...so cute!

Ready to Roll...

at bat...

baseball ready...

catching up in pictures

2009-03-07T09:51:00.012-05:00

We have all been really sick at our house and I have been awful at blogging. I just got around to uploading my pictures from valentines day! So here is a review of the last month or so of our life in pictures...Callie dressed in her heart dress for her valentine's party at school

Bryce with the heart bag he made for his party at school

We made Pink heart pancakes for breakfast on Valentine's day.

Callie and her friend Laney at Ellie's (Callie's favorite friend from school) birthday party

Bryce hiting the piniata at Matt and Krista's housewarming party

Callie and JJ at the housewarming party

Both kids are currently getting 3 treatments a day...Love the dino mask!

Finally feeling better and getting some fresh air

Happy to be outside!

sick

2009-02-27T13:16:00.003-05:00

Everyone (except for me!!) is sick at our house. Bryce has Strep and a sinus infection, Callie has strep and an ear infection, and Bryan is headed to the doctor later with a sore throat (what are the odds that it's strep!?!). Not a great way to go into a weekend that has 3 parties, 2 hrs of baseball practice, and 2 baseball games. It is currently raining and I am praying that it continues all weekend. Rain = no baseball! I am also praying that I stay well!

Both kids are also currently doing breathing treatments at least 3x a day. I sit them on the bed, turn on the tv, and they take turns who goes first. Seeing that it takes approx 15 min. per treatment that is an hour and a half out of our day!! Thank goodness neither of them fuss too much about it.

All of the illness has led me to figure out another huge difference in my two kids. Bryce HATES to take medicine. Last night it took me 30 min to get him to take 2 tspn of it!! I wanted to pull my hair out. Callie, on the other hand, loves medicine. She gulps it down as fast as she can and begs you for more. When you tell her no, she will throw herself on the floor, start coughing really hard, and say "but mommy, I need it...I'm coughing and I'm sick". I have to try my hardest to not to laugh at her.

the things they say...

2009-02-24T14:39:00.002-05:00

I love the cute and funny things that come out of kids mouths. Here are two from today that just cracked me up.

On the way to school Bryce asked me why we can't go to Dunkin Donuts for breakfast everyday. I explained that one, donuts are not the best breakfast, and two, we need to save our money so eating out is a special treat. I then told him that we might be able be get breakfast there on Friday's as a special treat for having a good week at school. His response, "Mom, don't you just wish that everyday was Friday?" If he only knew...

Callie had an accident at school today...and by accident I mean not just wet. So her teacher changed her and spoke with her about wearing big kid underwear and only using the toilet. She told me that Callie listened, put her hand on her (the teachers) shoulder, and said "okay...but let's not tell Mommy about this". I think I might be in trouble!!

motherhood

2009-02-21T20:55:00.003-05:00

Lately our lives have gotten even more hectic. Bryce is now in speech therapy 1x per week, baseball practice 4 hrs a week, and 3 mornings a week we have to go do sessions at the local elementary school (long story but we are doing "interventions" so that we can get him tested for language / learning disorders). So, all of this running around has got me thinking about how much more complicated and crazy motherhood really is.

Before I had kids I had this really rosy, warm picture of what it would be like.....toddlers with rosy cheeks and big eyes gazing up at you adoringly. Laughing children holding hands at the beach or at the park with pretty dresses and rolled up pants. Children sitting quietly while reading or playing board games. You know the pictures I'm talking about. The same one's that are hung in doctors offices and museums. The paintings that you look at and think "I want some of my own". Well, I have quickly learned that real children are nothing like the ones in the paintings. Rosy cheeks are usually accompanied by high fevers, tears, and sleepless nights. Kids rarely stay as clean and pretty as the ones in the pictures.....sand and dirt are in their hair the first 5 minutes you get to the beach or the park. And quiet moments reading are a rarity....at least at our house. Rambunctious children screaming and laughing is more the norm around here. Even with all of the screaming, the hectic schedules, the stained laundry, the scraped knees and bumped heads, the lack of sleep....I wouldn't change it for the world. Yes, being a mother is not what I expected. It is so much more, so much better then I expected and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Not Me Monday

2009-02-09T16:35:00.003-05:00

Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.

My friend Erin does this on her blog and I thought it looked like a fun thing to do. A way to share the slips-ups and mis-steps of motherhood. And a great way to get a chuckle. So here are my first "not me's". A list of things that I most certainly wouldn't and didn't do last week.

I did not bring a box of pop tarts and juice boxes to bed with me Saturday night. And I most certainly did not give them to my kids Sunday morning and put on our tv so that I could get an extra hour of sleep.
I did not cut a pair of brand new Gymboree underwear off of my daughter because she pooped in them. Do you know how much they cost?! Who in their right mind would do that?
It wasn't me that had to re-wash a load of towels four time because someone kept forgetting about them. Nope, that was not me!
There is no way that I got lazy last week and went to the Dunkin Donuts drive thru for breakfast 2 days. And it really was not me that let the kids order donuts with chocolate icing and sprinkles. I mean, really....who lets their kids eat chocolate covered donuts for breakfast?!
Sunday, when I needed to get some house stuff done, I most certainly did not let Bryce play Wii for 2 hours. That wasn't me!!

warmer weather

2009-02-08T22:27:00.003-05:00

We had some much needed warmer weather this past weekend. It has been unseasonably cold for Atlanta the past month and the kids were going stir crazy. Thank goodness we had a break and it warmed up this weekend..high 60's! Bryan decided to take advantage of the weather and took Bryce camping. Callie and I had a girls day with my mom. When we asked her what she wanted to do she replied "go to the mall". I swear she is 2 going on 15! We got her haircut and went to build a bear. She loved it!!

Today it was so warm that the ice cream truck came down our street. Bryan got them each a treat and they sat in the backyard and ate them. It was so nice getting out in the fresh air and soaking up the sun. Days like today make me love living in Georgia.

Potty Training

2009-02-05T23:04:00.004-05:00

I hate potty training. Really, really hate it. Callie hates it too. Really, really hates it. But the thing is she is so ready to be done with diapers. She stays dry at school all day. They love to tell me that. Everyday. I think they are rubbing it in and secretly thinking 'what in the world is wrong with you that you can't get her to stay dry at home?'. So I smile and praise her and think that maybe today will be the day. We get home and I fix her lunch and before she eats I tell her she needs to go potty. She will go sit on the toilet for a really long time and then tells me she doesn't have to go. Well, okay I think, because we don't always have to go. She then goes to the table sits down and within 10 minutes will stand up, look at me and smile, and then pee all over herself. This situation usually gets repeated several times in the afternoon and by bed time I just want to strangle her. But I am too busy because I am washing all of the pee soaked clothes from the day. I have tried rewards (stickers, chocolate, dolls), I have tried taking her every 30 min., and I even tried doing the potty dance. If you don't know what that is then you don't have kids. Nothing is working. Ahhhhhh! But I will keep on keeping on. And I will keep my fingers crossed that tomorrow will be the day. If it is, I will definitely let you know!!

But....if you happen to have any advice or tricks please send them our way. I will pretty much try anything at this point!!

Gotta go....the washing machine is calling my name.

Isn't it pretty?!

2009-02-05T10:10:00.002-05:00

Ok...I will admit it. I am obsessed with my blog layout. I want it to look original, fun, and still be simple. So I stumbled across a great site that had some really great backgrounds and found one I loved. After spending way too much time tweaking it, adding headers, changing fonts, etc, I am finally really, really happy with it. Let me know what you think.

Callie's 25 random things

2009-02-03T23:15:00.002-05:00

Here are 25 things you may or may not know about my little angel. If you are confused see the previous 2 posts and then this will make sense.

1. She is scared to death of fires. Whenever we have a fire in the fireplace she stays at least 10 feet away from it.
2. She is a girly girl but hang tough with the boys when she wants
3. her current favorite colors are pink and purple. pretty much switches from day to day.
4. Is obsessed with Barney. I think that she only likes him because she knows I hate him.
5. Is laid back, but when she gets an idea in her head, look out! She can hold her ground with the best of them.
6. She really, really wants to like frogs, worms, bugs. etc but when she gets about ready to hold them she freaks out, lets out a squeal, and runs away. She then cries because she wants to hold the animal that freaked her out. The cycle then repeats.
7. Has the most amazing brown eyes I have ever seen. Like melted chocolate.
8. Is really funny and is a complete ham.
9. She has sweetest laugh I have ever heard. I could listen to it all day.
10. Is an accessories girl...loves shoes, purses, hats, and coats.
11. Already likes to pick out her outfits. If I try to put something on her she does not "approve" of she will cross her arms and legs and stay that way until I pretty much give in...thus leading to #12.
12. Wears tutu's everywhere...store, school, doctors office. I have learned to pick my battles.
13. Is really small for her age (still wearing 18 month clothes!)
14. Adores her daddy, big brother, Uncle Jay Jay, and Pop. She has them all completely wrapped around her finger.
15. Looks just like her mommy when she was her age.
16. Is the most restless sleeper in the world.
17. She loves to eat. And she will eat pretty much anything....shrimp, broccoli, pistachios. You name it and she probably loves it.
18. Wants to be just like her big brother.
19. Is a happy girl...wakes up smiling and goes to bed laughing. Even when she is sick.
20. Is almost potty trained.
21. She loves to talk. I mean she really, really, loves to talk. incessantly. She doesn't ever stop.
22. Throws really good fits. Stomps her foot and everything.
23. Is a sweetie. She will share her toys and her food without giving it a second thought. A hard thing for a 2 year old to do.
24. Sings the blessing every night at dinner.
25. Lights up every room she walks into. She is such a ray of sunshine!!

Bryce's 25 random things

2009-02-01T23:30:00.002-05:00

I thought it might be fun to do a 25 random things about both kids. So much of my day is focused on just getting though the daily schedule and keeping the kids from driving me and each other crazy. Both of my kids are wonderful, amazing people in their own unique way. I thought it might be fun to focus on the little things that make them their own person. So....I will start with Bryce.
1. He sleeps with 2 animals every night. An elephant that he uses as a pillow and a monkey that he cuddles with.
2. He is the best helper ever. He will pick up, load the dishwasher, etc. and with little grumbling.
3. He tells me I am beautiful at least 2 times a day.
4. He hates pizza. and ketchup. and chocolate cake....he is the pickiest eater ever!
5. He loves to play rough and can dish it out but has a hard time when kids get rough back.
6. His current favorite song is "hot and cold" by Katy Perry. Sings it at the top of his lungs anytime it comes on the radio.
7. The boy makes friends quickly and he loves it. Wherever we go he will come over after about 5 min. and say mommy, this is my new friend. And they will proceed to play like they have known each other forever.
8. He remembers everything. Except for anything that has to do with school.
9. Almost always has really good manners.
10. He hates to get water in is eyes. Will scream like he is being attacked if even a drop gets in them.
11. Loves peanut butter sandwiches cut into circles. For some reason the shape is very important.
12. Calls oatmeal, ohh - pee- meal. The last of his "baby speak" and I love it!
13. Has a scar by his right eye and a freckle on his left ear.
14. Absolutely hates loud noises. Even movie theaters are too loud. He sits with his hands on his ears for at least half of the movie.
15. Has the most beautiful blue eyes and long lashes
16. Loves to be silly and makes really funny faces
17. He is not a morning person. It is a huge chore getting him up in the morning.
18. He is a sweetheart. And I'm not just saying that because I am his mom. Most everyone tells me this after knowing him for just a short amount of time.
19. Wants to learn to ride motorcycles but is held back by the loud noise thing
20. Is a complete mamma's boy. Has a whole routine of hugs and kisses before school everyday. His teachers laugh about it and even gave him the Indian name "boy that loves his mamma"
21. Loves to stay home in his pajamas all day. Will ask...do we have school? Can I stay in my pajama's all day? and will squeal with delight when I tell him okay.
22. Is the best frog catcher I have ever seen. He will spend hours at my parents house catching them.
23. He is a scardy cat when it comes to tv and movies. Won't even watch some Disney movies because he claims they are scary.
24. Can roll his tongue. This amazes me because I can not.
25. Hates to get into trouble but yet is a troublemaker. Weird combination.

25 random things

2009-02-01T23:21:00.002-05:00

If you are on facebook then you have probably seen this going around. When you are "tagged" then you have to create your own list and then send it out to 25 people. I thought it might be fun to share it here....so here are 25 completely random things about me.
1. I love the rain but I am terrified of thunderstorms
2. I am jealous of people that can sing and wish that I could
3. I am left handed
4. Laundry is my least favorite thing to do, especially putting it away. half the time we have a basket of clean clothes in our room.
5. I love the beach but hate swimming in the ocean.
6. I have a phobia of snake and spiders
7. I love to cook and bake and try new recipes...cupcakes are my favorite
8. Hearing my children laugh is my favorite sound in the entire world
9. I would love to live in New York
10. I wish I had a tattoo
11. Chocolate is heaven to me
12. I love reading and I read really, really,really fast.
13. Photography is a hobby that I would like to pursue....I can get lost when behind the camera.
14. I love hanging out with my girlfriends.
15. I am really, really close with my family
16. My husband makes me laugh more then anyone else I know
17. I am extremely klutzy and can trip over pretty much anything
18. I wish I had my pre-baby body back but would not trade being a mother for anything
19.I was extremely shy as a child but somewhere along the way I outgrew it
20. I am not a morning person and I love to sleep
21. I love to exercise
22. Dancing is one of my favorite things
23. Clutter drives me crazy
24. I have asthma and absolutely hate it. Also hate that Callie seems to be developing it
25. I love the south but there are things about the north I miss....crisp fall mornings, snow, good pizza, good bagels, and the way my name sounds when said with a northern accent (weird I know, but if you have lived both places you probably understand).

somethings gotta change

2009-01-14T23:01:00.002-05:00

It has been quiet on the blog this year. Why, you may ask? Well...that would be due to the fact that I'm on crutches and trying to potty train Callie at the same time (not my smartest idea ever). It's just not working, it's absolutely exhausting, and I'm at the end of my rope. So....I'm going to have to get rid of something and it's not the crutches (at least they will be around until Feb). Bye Bye big girl undies and hello pull ups. and hopefully hello to a tiny bit more sanity.

Christmas and a New Year

2009-01-05T15:39:00.013-05:00

I've gotten a little slack at the blogging bit. I will try better this year to keep it up to date. I did try to update the layout of my blog. I like the new one but I'm still having some issues (which will hopefully get worked out soon). Here are some of my favorite pictures from the holidays. I can't believe that it is all over already!

Crutches and a boot

2008-12-30T22:56:00.010-05:00

I'm now in a boot and on crutches. Can you hear the excitement coming thru your computer? If anyone has any ideas on how to manage this with 2 kids please let me know.

hungry hungry human

2008-12-17T22:55:00.004-05:00

Bryce got the bright idea to swallow a marble from his hungry hungry hippo game tonight. His response to us when asked why in the world did you do that?..."I don't know but I guess I'll just have to poop it out".

ABC's....

2008-12-15T16:46:00.004-05:00

Here is a video of Callie singing her ABC's. She is so smart (yes...I am biased but still)! Counting objects, recognizing shapes and colors, and even recognizing some letters. It is so fun watching her learn new things everyday.

cookies and falling soldiers

2008-12-14T12:48:00.006-05:00

Yesterday was annual cookie baking day. My mom and I take one day before Christmas to bake lots and lots of Christmas cookies. This year we made 5 different kinds and about 22 dozen....that's a lot of cookies! It is one of the things I look forward to each year. I love spending the day with my mom amongst the smell of baking cookies. We always burn at least one cookie sheet and we always eat way to many cookies. The kids got in on the action and helped out a little. Bryce had more fun "cleaning the beater" then actually helping bake the cookies. I had to finally put my foot down with "your going to get a tummy ache". Sometimes I chuckle to myself after saying those types of "mom" sayings. I still can remember my mom saying the same thing to me.

We, or should I say Bryce, also had a run in with a toy soldier yesterday. He decided to try and put something in his stocking and pulled the holder off of the mantle and on to his forehead. Some ice, a phone call to childrens healthcare of Atlanta, and lots of TLC later he seemed to be ok. I promptly removed the weapons (aka stocking holders) from the mantle. Guess I'm going to figure out a different way to hang them from now on.

My favorite "dishwasher"

The scene of the crime

Evidence of the crime... I think it was the toy soldier with the stocking holder in the family room (cheesy, I know but Clue is one of my all time favorite movies)

hockey night

2008-12-14T12:32:00.007-05:00

Friday night we were invited to go to a Gladiators game (the Gladiators are a hockey team that play out of the local arena...not NHL but still fun!). We all had a really good time, especially the kids. We were sitting pretty close to the glass so we had a great view of the ice. We were also sitting right where the players went in and out of the locker room so Bryce got to "high five" them. He announced that he now wants to play hockey! I told him that we would go skating one night and see how he likes it. I have a feeling that after a couple of falls he is going to change his mind...but who knows. Maybe we had a lot of hockey games in our future!

no stage fright

2008-12-14T00:08:00.008-05:00

Bryce's first Christmas program was at the age of 2 and he did not want to be up on stage. This stage fright continued until the age of 4. This fact had me slightly worried going into the kids Christmas program this past week. Callie was participating (along with Bryce) and I was slightly waiting to see if we would revisit the land of tears and screaming. This proved not to be the case as Callie once again proved that she might be little but she has no fear. She stood center stage and even pushed a little boy out of the way that got in front of her.

Bryce did a great job too. His teacher had asked me to talk to him about talking to his friends during the program. Our talk didn't seem to work as he chatted it up with the little girl that was next to him the entire program. Oh well!

Group shot....Bryce is on the left all the way on the end and 2nd from the top. Callie is front and center. She is such a peanut!

Tis the Season...

2008-12-10T23:46:00.007-05:00

Tis the season for all things Christmas. The season has set in and we have begun all of the fun things that go along with it. I do feel like we are dragging a bit this year and who knows why....2 kids under 5, 3 jobs (me 1 and Bryan 2), 2 hours of commuting daily, housework, laundry, and the list could go on! This weekend we went to a Christmas parade with friends, picked out a tree, and got the lights on the house. Monday we decorated the tree. It was so much fun. We turned on Christmas music, danced around, and hung all of the ornaments. Afterwards Bryan and I got to cuddle up on the couch while the kids ran around screaming how pretty the tree was. We even got them to sing some Christmas songs for us. The rest of the house needs to be decorated but at least the boxes are out of the attic! I am feeling the strain of the holiday season but am trying to push it aside and just enjoy it. It helps that the kids are so excited. Every evening on the way home they ohh and ahh whenever we pass Christmas lights....makes for a much more enjoyable ride! Tomorrow is their school xmas program and they are both in it. I'll be sure to post a video tmrw!

where's your hair?

2008-12-04T18:41:00.003-05:00

Bryan shaved his head yesterday. And I do mean shaved....he's pretty much bald. The kids were in bed so they didn't see his new "do" until today. They were quite shocked when we got home. Callie took one look at him and said "Oh no Daddy! All your hair fell out!". I proceeded to fall on the floor laughing.

santa conversation

2008-12-02T11:23:00.003-05:00

Here is a snip from my conversation with Bryce on the way to school.

Bryce: Mom, I am a little confused about Santa
Me: What are you confused about?
Bryce: Well, there are 2 Santa's at the mall. We also saw a really skinny Santa on tv and a black Santa. Which one is the real one and why are the other one's saying they are Santa?
Me: Well (long pause to try to get a decent answer together)...Santa is really,really, busy right now and he can't be everywhere at the same time so he has friends that help him out. They are Santa's helpers. Like the elves we saw in the Santa movie.
Bryce: So the friends dress up like Santa and tell everyone they are Santa but they really aren't? Isn't that lying?
Me: Well.....kind of but they are trying to help.
Bryce: Mommy, it's not nice to lie. You told me if I lie that Santa won't bring me any presents. I guess the fake Santa's won't have any presents this year.

He's only 5! Nothing seems to go over this child's head!

Callie 0, Chair 1

2008-12-01T21:20:00.004-05:00

Callie had a run in with a chair this evening and by the looks of it, the chair won! After a stream of tears, some ice, ibuprophen, and lots of hugs she was good as new. Well not quite good as new, she still has a pretty good knot and black and blue mark. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that she hasn't inherited my clutziness!!

Holiday weekend fun

2008-12-01T20:43:00.007-05:00

Here are some pictures from Thanksgiving weekend. We had a very low key Thanksgiving dinner with only six people (small for us). The rest of the weekend consisted of shopping with my mom, A Thrashers game with friends, Dinner and a movie with the girls, and lots of family time. Auburn played their final game against Alabama. For the first time since I can remember, I'm glad the season is over! Here are some pictures from the weekend.

a preschool thanksgiving

2008-11-25T15:07:00.003-05:00

The kids had Thanksgiving lunch at school today. They both dressed up like Indians. Bryce's Indian name was "chief loves his mom". Made me laugh. He is highly attached to me and everyone knows it. The funny thing is that he knows it and doesn't care (I'm sure one day being called a mama's boy will not go over so well). They made placemats that listed what they were thankful for. Bryce's says Cows that give us milk, my mom and dad, my family, and God.

Callie ate all of her food but didn't seem too fond of the pumpkin pie. It is rare to find a food she doesn't like!!

lessons

2008-11-24T21:18:00.003-05:00

I learn things from my kids everyday. As a parent, you go into it thinking you are going to teach them so much. and then real life happens and you realize that they are the real teachers. I have started making an effort to think about what they have taught me that day every night before I fall asleep. Here is a brief list of things (both sweet, serious, and funny) that I have learned over the last week.

No matter how good of an idea it seems, and no matter how many coupons you have for free jr. Frostys, it is not a good idea to let kids eat them in the car. There is no amount of napkins that can clean up the mess. trust me.

It is good to thank God for all things... Food, cars, wii games, friends, puppies, hair, bath soap, chairs, leaves, trees, etc. I have come to realize that I skip the little daily items and only focus on the big things. I think God likes to hear that we notice everything around us.

Kids are drawn to the kitchen whenever you are preparing food. When you are trying to make something extra special they are not only drawn into the kitchen but they will arrive in full tantrum mode.

The gold leaves are the prettiest in the fall. They look like butterflies fluttering to the ground.

Kids will say the most embarrassing things when in a crowd and in the loudest voice possible. Case in point.....Callie yelling "you have big boobs" while shopping at Kohl's.

Life is the sweetest when you are surrounded by your family.

peer pressure

2008-11-11T10:32:00.002-05:00

Bryce loves having friends. He is always asking when we can go play with someone. This past week he has also made several other requests. It seems peer pressure is starting to set in.

He asked me if I would buy him Sketchers. How in the world does a 5 year old know what Sketchers are? I figured it could be worse and agreed to get him a pair. He needs some new shoes anyway. Bye Bye Stride Rite and hello Sketchers.

He asked me if he could wear his pirate shirt today. He wore it Friday and usually I try to cycle through clothes before re wearing something. It seems Iris and Avery liked the shirt and they asked him to wear it today. At first I said no. He had never asked for a specific shirt so I figured that it wasn't a big deal. Well, it was a big deal and I conceded. He happily walked into school with his pirate shirt proudly displayed. When they came running over to him he gave me this little "told ya so" grin.

I am counting my blessing that the peer pressure is currently harmless. I know one day we will face much bigger issues then Sketchers and pirate shirts!

I love this picture....Cody is one of Bryce's favorite friends

talking in sentences

2008-11-11T10:17:00.002-05:00

Callie has somehow progressed from talking in 2 or 3 word phrases to speaking in full on sentences. It is fun watching her explain her thoughts through words. She also loves to repeat everything that her brother says....sometimes this is a good thing and sometimes not so much. Yesterday on the way home Bryce's foot fell asleep and he began crying that it hurt. She looked at him with a really serious look, and said "what hurts Tyce (how she says Bryce)? Your foot....mommy put a bandaid on it and it will feel better. Don't be sad". So sweet!

She also has several favorite phrases that she loves to say over and over... The first is "hold on". She holds up one finger when she says this and gives you this "you need to be patient" look. The other favorite phrase is "don't cry". If you ask for a kiss or a hug she will say no, start walking away, and then look back at you and say this. Such an ego at 2! I will remember to tell her this when she starts dating!!

Christmas in November

2008-11-09T22:58:00.010-05:00

It seems like Xmas festivities start earlier and earlier every year. This year, one week after Halloween weekend, Santa arrived at Bass Pro Shop (for those of you who do not know, that is Bryan's current place of employment). I got the kids dressed up, took some pictures hoping to get some for xmas cards (think I got a couple!), and headed to Bass Pro with a friend and her kids. Santa arrived on a boat and then moved inside to his "workshop". We had a time card for an appointed time to see him.....8:30!....we got the card at 5pm! We wasted time hanging out in the mall and the store and finally got to meet Santa and take a picture with him. The kids did great and he was a really amazing Santa. He talked to the kids forever and was wonderful with Callie (If you live in the Lawrenceville area I highly recommend going....you get a free 4x6 and can pick up a time card in the am and go back in the evening at your appointed time). Bryce and Callie were in complete awe. It was so much fun seeing their eye's light up. I'm still not sold on Xmas in November but for an hour or so it was nice experiencing the Christmas spirit. Now lets all eat Turkey!

Bryce's letter to McCain

2008-11-05T12:19:00.004-05:00

Bryan and I both got to vote yesterday. I stood in line for about 1 1/2 hrs and he waited a little under an hour. It was amazing to see so many people out voting. We then sat up last night and watched the results. No matter who you voted for you can not deny that it was a milestone in American history.

So this morning I decided to chat with Bryce about the results. We have been talking about the candidates and he was aware that yesterday was the day to vote (I brought home a sticker for both of the kids). Well, I informed Bryce that Obama had won. Here is the conversation that followed:

Bryce: So who lost? McCain?

Me: Yes, McCain lost.

Bryce: Well...do you think he is sad?

Me: Probably. It's not fun losing

Bryce: Well maybe I can make him a card. Could you mail it to him?

Me: Yes, I guess we could mail him a card. What would you like it to say?

Bryce: I'm sorry you lost. But I don't really care becuase I'm only five.

trick or treat

2008-11-01T11:41:00.003-04:00

We had a great Halloween. The kids got to wear their costumes to school where they had a small party (the teachers call it a "special snack day" - why not just call a party what it really is...a party?). Callie was dressed as a bumblebee and on the way to school kept saying "I'm a bee and I'm going to sting all my friends....buzzzz". She cracks me up! After school we stopped by my mom's school so she could see the kids dressed up. Bryce got really upset when everyone started calling him spiderman. After one teacher said "go save the world spidy", He got very upset and said "don't they know I'm just a boy in a costume?". Too cute!

We had a party at our house last night. Chili, soup, salad, and bread for the grown-ups and mummy hot dogs and mac and cheese for the kids...yumm! We ate dinner before heading out to trick or treat. The kids had a blast and everyone got way too much candy. We ended at our house where the kids all dumped out their bags to check out their goodies. After cookies, cake, and plenty of jumping and running around everyone headed home. Bryce and Callie crashed hard shortly after and slept in this morning. I guess all that sugar is good for something!!

PS....Blind Melon is not my favorite band and that is not why Callie is dressed like a bee.

Here are some pictures for the day.

3 days, 60 miles, thousands of memories

2008-10-31T10:58:00.003-04:00

I did it! I walked all sixty miles....no sweep van for me. My foot isn't too happy about this and I have already been to one doctor and have an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon on Monday. But...it was worth it. I had an amazing time. We laughed almost the entire 60 miles. There was not much laughing on Friday. It rained and it was really, really cold. We even ate our lunch outside in the rian! By the end of the day my rain pants were shredded and my clothes under my poncho were soaked! They moved camp to an empty office building so we could sleep someplace warm and dry. The rest of the weekend was sunny and warm and it made the walking go a lot quicker. My team raised over 40k and the total raised in Atlanta was over 8 million! Thanks to everyone for your support. Of course I will be walking again next year so let me know if you want to join in the fun!

Here is a short video of my pictures from the weekend.

here I go again...

2008-10-23T13:02:00.003-04:00

I'm all packed and ready to go! The 3 day is such an amazing and challenging event. Raising $2,200 is challenging enough but then we walk 60 miles! Walking that far is not really that hard. It's more mind over matter. You just have to tell yourself you can do it and put one foot in front of the other. I know that this year is going to be a lot harder due to my current injury, but I am just as determined to do it. Crazy, maybe...but those of you that have walked the 3 day completely understand.

So wish me luck. And wish Bryan and the kids luck.... a weekend with dad is always an adventure. The going joke at our house is that Bryan will text me a picture of the kids next to that days newspaper as "proof of life". Ha ha....but not so far from the truth.!

trying to get excited

2008-10-22T16:29:00.002-04:00

Ok....so I am trying really hard to get excited about the 3 day this weekend. After all of the fundraising, preparation, and headaches you would think I would be over the top exited. Well several things have kinda put a hitch in the weekend.

First...they are calling for rain. and highs in the low 50's. I'm just having a hard time being excited about walking 20 miles while wet and cold. If it's still raining when we get to camp then we have to put up our tents in the rain! (don't tell but I actually have a backup plan that involves a car ride to a warm, dry place to sleep!).

Second....I have been wishing away this pain that I have had in my foot for around 6 months. Wishful thinking didn't really do much and now I am still having pain. Last weekend, after walking just 1 mile, my foot started really hurting which freaked me out. I started wondering what it would feel like after 60 miles. So....I called a friend who is an athletic trainer who listened to the problem and referred me to his brother, who is also an athletic trainer. The verdict....not definite, but chances are it is a stress fracture (of the narvicular bone? Scott...if you happen to read this, feel free to clarify. anatomy is not my thing). Yea me. so the current plan is to walk in pain. I have been planning on this event for a year so a little pain isn't going to stop me!! If the pain gets progressively worse over the 60 miles then I will go next week to an orthopedic who will probably put me in a boot for a couple weeks.

I'm sure after the walk I will post about how wonderfully amazing it was but right now I am having a hard time getting pumped for it.

Sooo....if you live in the ATL area and you happen to see a massive amount of people walking down the side of the road in the rain....honk and wave at them. Chances are they will need the encouragement!!

who Bryce would vote for

2008-10-16T23:29:00.003-04:00

On the way home today I was listening to the radio and they started talking about the presidential debate. I thought it might be a great time to talk to Bryce about voting. First I told him that the United States has a President and it's the most important job in the country. Then I told him that every four years we get to vote on who we want to be the next president. He asked me if I was going to vote, and I told him yes and that he could go with me if he wanted. I then explained that there were 2 men that wanted to be president and that I would have to vote for one of them. He asked who they were, so I told him John McCain and Barack Obama. He says "oh, yeah...I saw them on TV". So I ask him (thinking I'm really expanding his brain, teaching him things, etc.) who he would vote for. After much though he responded "John McCain". Curious as to why, I then asked him why and his response was "Well, I really like his hair and he has much better ears then Obama". I don't think I should use the same criteria when deciding whom I should vote for!

update in pictures

2008-10-13T20:29:00.015-04:00

Here is an update in pictures with a brief intro...

Callie loves purses
Kiddo's are into dressing up. Callie is into layering costumes
Wicked was amazing! It is now my favorite show. I also have a new love of Chocolate Martini's...
I continue to love black and white photo's. Also love close-ups of the kids. Together they equal bliss :)
Callie loves having her toe nails painted just like Mommy

changing

2008-10-06T11:34:00.004-04:00

The seasons are changing. Fall is starting to set in in the south. The day's are still warm (today in the 80's), but the evenings are getting chilly. Bryce can not wait for the leaves to start changing. Everyday he asks me when the leaves are going to be different colors. I'm really excited to be able to share this with him this year.

Despite autumn's arrival, we are still enjoying the benefits of warm weather. Yesterday we went to the lake with my mom and dad. We enjoyed the great afternoon and grilled out hot dogs. It was a wonderful day!

Today we are stuck at home (long story that involves Bryan grabbing the truck keys this morning). The kids have been playing outside. They love riding on Bryce's 4 wheeler. Callie wraps her little chubby arms around Bryce and off they go. I guess she was getting a little tired today....when I looked up at them she had her head down on his back with her finger in her mouth (sure sign she's tired). I had to get a picture!

One last change that I caught today is Callie's hair. It is getting so long! I didn't realize it until I saw this picture I snapped this morning. Thank goodness the hair cut that Bryce gave her is growing out!

antic of the day

2008-10-03T15:48:00.002-04:00

You know it's never good news when the teacher says I need to have a quick word and pulls you aside to tell you something. This is exactly what happened when I went to get Bryce. Today she asked me to speak with him about "standing on top of the urinals". Seems he thinks that they are part of the playground. Never a dull moment with a 5 year old boy!

On a side note...when I asked him about climbing on the toilets, his eyes got really big and he asked "how did you know that Mommy?!". My explanation....Mommy's know everything...it's like magic! Not sure he believed me completely but he definitely thought about it for a good long while.

Callie's lesson of the day

2008-10-01T20:50:00.002-04:00

Callie learned an important lesson today...Salt is best in small quantities! After pouring out the entire salt shaker onto the table, she thought it would be a smart idea to take a HUGE bite (or lick) of it. She bent her face down, and licked up as much as she could fit in her mouth. She immediately started gagging and threw up her breakfast all over the place. A great way to start the day! (thank goodness Bryan had just walked in from a job interview....he got to clean it up!). I guess she learned her lesson...tonight at dinner after watching me put salt on my food, she told my mom "I don't like salt.".

smarty pants

2008-09-30T10:39:00.003-04:00

Bryce is always saying things that crack me up. And he is really quick witted...the things he think ups blow me away. Pretty much a mini Bryan. Here are 2 that had me laughing yesterday.

When picking Bryce up from preschool his teacher pulls me aside to tell me something (my first response is oh no...here we go again). She tells me that for weeks she has been telling Bryce that things are only funny once. You see, he has a very bad habit of repeating anything that might make someone laugh (jokes, faces, falling down, etc). So yesterday he walks up to her with a very serious expression and says "Mrs. Real, can I tell you something?". Of course she said yes. Bryce then says "now you need to pay really close attention because I am only going to tell you once". I guess he has been paying attention after all!

Yesterday afternoon I had to go to the bank for my dad. I decided to do the drive thru thing since I hate dragging (and I do mean dragging) 2 kids into the bank. They were really, really, really slow. I think I had to wait about 15 min before we even got up to the window. And once we did reach the window the banker's computer could not read the check I was depositing so she had to take it to the manager and get her to handle it. Seriously, at this point I think we had been waiting approx 25 min. Way too long to be waiting with 2 kids in the car. Bryce started badgering me and asking why they were slow. He asked me to honk at them to make them go faster. He asked me to yell at them and tell them to "get a move on" (do I say this to him?). He then looks at the people around us and realizes that most of them are Hispanic (including the banker). He gets this huge smile on his face and goes "I know mommy.....how do you say slow in Spanish?". The lady in the bank heard him and started cracking up. I didn't know if I should laugh or hide my head in embarrassment. On a side note...I have no idea how to say slow in spaninsh. I'll have Bryce ask uncle Stephen next time he's over.

where is the gas?

2008-09-29T16:27:00.003-04:00

I am really getting sick and tired of this gas problem we are having in Atlanta. Today I sat in line to pump $30, the maximum you could buy, into my truck. It didn't even give me a 1/4 of a tank (gas is over $4 a gallon). I probably used more gas finding the station and waiting. On Friday I drove up to my friends house for a sex in the city party. I did a running tally of gas stations on my way and here was my total...22 to 4. That's 22 with no gas to 4 with gas. The 4 with gas had lines 20 cars deep and stretched out into the streets. It is complete madness! Oh and after I finished pumping my gas the gentlemen from the station proceeded to put a plastic bag on the pump. Seems I got the last of the gas from his station. Yeah me...I guess.

Here is what most stations in Atlanta look like.

bring on the colds

2008-09-20T15:22:00.003-04:00

In our house you know it's fall when the runny noses start. I had been hoping all week, call it wishful thinking, that the slight drip from Callie's nose would be only that. Maybe caused from her molars coming in. No such luck. We woke up this morning to everyone (Except Bryan) having full on colds. No fun.

I had also been praying that Callie's colds would be only that this year, and not turn into chest congestion, pneumonia, etc. Last May the doctor finally diagnosed her with RAD (Reactive airway disease). They think that the bronchiolitis she had as an infant had "hung on". New research shows that it can take 2 years for the virus to leave their systems. So, the doctor thought that maybe she would outgrow it over the summer. I was keeping my fingers crossed too. In May they finally decided that the albuterol was not enough and we would have to do pulmicort too (an inhaled steroid). I'm not to up on giving my 2 year old steroids. Don't get me wrong, I want her to be able to breathe (kind of important), I just don't like medicating her for 3 months after the symptoms end (per doctor). Anyway, all week I have been waiting for the wheezing, coughing to start and it didn't....until this morning! So we are back on the neb and the steroids and hoping that it clears up by itself and we don't have to make any trips to the doctor. And at least Callie tolerates it pretty well. She pretty much just sits there with the mask on her face without complaining. Big thing seeing it takes about 20 minutes to do a treatment.

new pajamas

2008-09-18T21:49:00.003-04:00

My mom bought Callie the most adorable pj's today. I love them and so does Callie. When we went for our walk this evening with my friend Kat and her little girl, Callie had to wear them. She looked so adorable....minus the huge bike helmet she was wearing. For some reason she thinks she has to wear a bike helmet when riding in a stroller.....safety first!

poem

2008-09-17T10:21:00.003-04:00

I love this poem... it is our human nature to see the hard side of life first. We can be prone to having a whinge about how hard life is, the constant work, illness etc etc. This is one about putting it into perspective. Even on the hardest days I feel so blessed to have such a loving family and wonderful friends. Hope you all like it as well.

Drinking From My Saucer

I've never made a fortune and it's probably too late now.But I don't worry about that much,I'm happy anyhow.
And as I go along life's way,I'm reaping better than I sowed.
I'm drinking from my saucer,'Cause my cup has overflowed.

I don't have a lot of riches,and sometimes the going's tough.But I've got loved ones around me,and that makes me rich enough.
I thank God for his blessings,and the mercies He's bestowed.
I'm drinking from my saucer,'cause my cup has overflowed.

I remember times when things went wrong,My faith wore somewhat thin.But all at once the dark clouds broke, and the sun peeped through again.
So God, help me not to gripe about the tough rows that I've hoed.
I'm drinking from my saucer,'Cause my cup has overflowed.

If God gives me strength and courage,when the way grows steep and rough.I'll not ask for other blessings, I'm already blessed enough.
And may I never be too busy,to help others bear their loads.
Then I'll keep drinking from my saucer,'Cause my cup has overflowed.

~ John Paul Moore ~

crafty

2008-09-17T00:03:00.004-04:00

I got a really random email this evening. Someone saw a picture of the cupcakes I made for the kids bday party and wanted to know who made them. They wanted to order some just like them! Too bad for her that I don't take orders (not a bad idea) but good for me as it made me feel super crafty. Yup...from now on just call me Martha Stewart.

on a side note....kind of weird that some random person could google up monkey cupcakes, view my pictures, and email me. Freaks me out just a little.

party like a rock star...kid style

2008-09-16T17:45:00.010-04:00

We partied hard all weekend. Friday night I had a much needed girls night with Mary Glenn and Sheri. We walked around target (it's a different world without kids!), went to dinner, and saw a movie (The Women). It was a great night. I laughed more then I have in a very long time and that is a very good thing.

Sat. We had 2 parties...both of them for 3 year old girls. The AM party was at a jumpy place and was for a little girl in Callie's class. It was a lot of fun. Callie is quite the brave little girl and had all of the other kids going down the slide head first. The PM party was for our friends Kat and Brian's little girl. They live right around the corner so Bryce rode his bike and I walked with Callie (Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that Bryan was out of town this weekend!). The kids played in the yard and we sat around, watched football, and relaxed. Bryce has a crush on a little girl that was there so he was very excited to get to play with her. They had our jumpy set up in the yard and the kids wore themselves out.

Sunday we had a party at Chuckee Cheese for our friend's Craig and Crystal's little girl Sydney (she's turning 4). Not my favorite place but there were 2 older girls that decided it was their job to watch Callie. I love mommy's helpers!! I let Bryce and Callie eat all (yes I said all) of the candy from Saturday's goody bags before the party. I figured they could get all of the sugar out of their system at the party and boy was I right. They crashed when they got home!

An entire pizza, three publix cakes, three goody bags filled with candy, and about 12 juice boxes later and they we are pretty much partied out. I don't think anyone was really up to eating dinner Sunday night. Even Maxi....she decided it would be a smart idea to eat one of the kids candy bracelets. Swallowed it whole! Tummy aches for everyone at our house!!

Callie's 3 favorite friends from school

Callie demonstrating the art of sliding head first

Abbie's party....nothing beats a picnic

war eagle

2008-09-11T18:53:00.008-04:00

Last Sat. we took the kids to their first Auburn football game. My brother has season tickets and invited us to come along. We had a great day of tailgating and cheering at the game. It was very, very hot so we left the game a little early. Bryce and Callie had a blast. Callie made her debut on the jumbotron at her very first game(Bryce had trouble understanding why he wasn't on tv too).Such a fun time!!

Hallie Would ya?

2008-09-05T23:15:00.002-04:00

On the way home from school today I did the typical "what did you do today?" mom routine. Usually Bryce doesn't give much info. It's actually like pulling teeth to get any answer from him. Here is our conversation today...
Me: What did you do today at school?
Bryce: nothing. I played on the playground. We went to chapel.
Me: How was chapel. Did you see Callie there?
Bryce: yes, I saw her and she sat the entire time (good to know!).
Me: What did you talk about in chapel?
Bryce: We sang. Do you want to hear what we sang? It goes.... Hallie Would, Hallie Would, Hallie Would, Hallie would ya, Raise sheep dear Lord.
Me: Huh? Sing it again.
Bryce then repeated the above lyrics
Me: (after thinking about it for a while, realize he is actually singing Hallelujah, Hallelujah, Praise ye the Lord) Ohhh....I know that song
Bryce: Yup and do you know what Hallie Would ya (Hallelujah) means?
Me: what?
Bryce: It means get down. Anytime you say that word you have to squat down on the ground.
Me: No, actually it is a word you say....
Bryce (interrupting me): your wrong mommy, it means get down. You don't know what your talking about.

His teacher also reported that he punched a kid today. When asked why he responded that the kid hit him first and his daddy says if someone hits you to hit them back!

first day

2008-09-02T20:56:00.005-04:00

Today was the first day of preschool. Callie is going 5 days a week in the 2 year old class and Bryce is going 5 days a week in the pre-k class. Both of them had a great first day. No tears for either of them. And it was so cute watching Callie's eyes light up when she saw her friends. I absolutely love all of their teachers (Callie has 3 and Bryce has 2) and am really excited about the upcoming year. It was a bittersweet day knowing that it is the last "first day" of both of them going to preschool. I will keep everyone posted on the ongoings of preschool life.

lake weekend

2008-09-01T22:14:00.011-04:00

We have spent the past 2 days on the lake with friends. It was a much needed change of pace and even though I am exhausted, I feel refreshed. The kids played and swam as did the adults. We beached the boats on an island on Lake lanier (thanks to the drought there are a lot of sandy spots) and set up. We had drinks, played horseshoes, hung out in the lake, and just sat around enjoying the great weekend. Sunday evening we went to a friends house for the night and then started all over again this morning. Sherri's mom brought Sausage and peppers, one of my favorites!! It was a great way to end the summer as the kids both start school tmrw. I will sleep really well tonight, despite being a little sunburned. Hope everyone had a wonderful Labor's Day weekend.

Pooped out!

football and hairbows

2008-08-30T17:48:00.003-04:00

It seems the two are a rite of passage in the south. It's pretty much standard to have an sec team that you cheer for. and get heckled for, depending on the year. It is also pretty standard for little southern girls to wear ginormous hair bows. The bigger the better it seems. I have been putting bows in Callie's hair since it was long enough to do so. However I have avoided the huge bows until today. Today football and hairbows collided for Auburn's opening game. And she did look completely adorable. I'm not sold on the huge bows but I will be putting this one in for game days. Thanks again Aimee for the most adorable Auburn outfit ever!!

bryce's view on girls bathing suits

2008-08-26T20:15:00.003-04:00

Bryce: Daddy, Know why girls have big ones up here (pointing at his chest area)?

Bryan (chuckling under his breath): I'm not sure....why do you think?

Bryce: To hold up their bathing suits. If they didn't they would fall right off.

chipmunk

2008-08-24T20:24:00.006-04:00

I think Callie is part chipmunk. Seriously, not kidding at all. She has the most adorable chubby cheeks. She's had them since she was a baby. People used to stop us to say she had huge cheeks. I never knew how to respond to that. "Thanks for calling my baby fat?". Anyway...some of the baby fat has started to disappear but they are still pretty chubby.

Well, I guess she has decided to put those cheeks to use. Lately she has started storing food in them. No joke. Tonight, about 2 hours after we finished dinner, I noticed she had something in her mouth. I said "Callie, what is in your mouth? Please show me". and her response was "my food!". She still had dinner stored in her cheeks! I'm not sure how to put a stop to this so if you have any ideas please let me know!!

See any resemblance?

swinging

2008-08-21T23:03:00.007-04:00

We have several August birthdays in my family. Tonight we had our usual family birthday dinner. This one was for my mom, Jason, and Jeff. It was a very relaxing evening spent eating good food and just hanging out. It was a much needed break from the chaotic life that we have been living. Earlier in the evening my dad pushed the kids on the tire swing that he and Jason hung for the kiddos. They absolutely love it! Here are some pictures. Also, I am finally starting to play around with some of the different options with my camera and the software it came with. I had fun trying out different textures, lighting, etc. Let me know what you think. My goal is to take a photography class in the next year. It's something I've always wanted to do but just haven't found the time to do it.

It's finally over

2008-08-19T21:58:00.008-04:00

I love doing the golf tournament.....really I do. It's just so much work. I am happy to say that it is finally over and it was worth every bit of energy I put into it. Everyone had a wonderful time and we raised a nice amount of money. People might be saying it was rigged this year. Bryan's team won first and Jason's team won second. My mom won the putting competition and the best prize of the day....a weekend with golf at Myrtle Beach!! The girls and I had a blast... I even taught one of my friends to drive a golf cart, something she has never done before. And don't worry...if you didn't get a chance to come out and participate this year we will be doing it again next year!

Hanging out on the course with Heather (She was in charge this year, thank goodness)

A great day for golf on the lake

Bryan's team....they won first place

Jason's team.....love the blue shirts

My mom and dad's team