A Day in the Life...

Fireworks!!

2009-07-06T17:12:00.006-04:00

Chris and I took the kids to see the fireworks in Blue Ridge on the 4th of July. They were so excited to go! You know how sometimes you have this little voice in the back of your mind saying "Bad Idea! Bad Idea!" For some reason I never listen to this little voice. Brayden and I are the only ones who actually watched the fireworks. Emma and Jessica totally freaked out! Chris had to take them out of the crowd of people, sit on the ground behind a car with on kid on each side and bury their heads in his lap. They were petrified! Brayden and I stayed and watched, but he kept telling me he was ready to go home. He wanted to see them but was scared at the same time.

The good news is I took tons of pictures. I was going to take the tripod, but when I saw how far I was going to have to walk I decided to leave it in the car. I figured I wouldn't get any good shots, so I was surprised to get these. I'm sure if I'd used the tripod I'd have gotten some super great shots, but since the kids freaked on us I'm glad I didn't have the extra baggage. I told Chris that next year I'm going alone!

Summer Fun!

2009-06-25T14:39:00.005-04:00

We haven't had much going on this summer. It seems to be flying by though! The kids have played outside on the new swingset, and in their little pool, which they love. The days are so hot though that they ususally end up inside. Dress up is a favorite for them. Here's Emma ready to go shopping:Great-Grandma was here for 2 weeks visiting. The kids love it when she comes. While she was here we attempted to get a picture of her with all the great-grandkids, but it didn't work out so well. I used my PNS for these pictures, which explains the focus. Plus, the kids wouldn't cooperate. Oh well, I suppose they'll do.
And here's all the grandkids. I really should have taken one of Mama and Daddy with the grandkids, but for some reason it never crossed my mind. I thought this one turned out ok. Please excuse the dirty feet!

We're planning a trip to Chattanooga sometime, next month we hope. Jessica has been begging us to take her to the Aquarium. They have a neat butterfly exhibit that she just loves. We're planning to make a weekend trip out of it and probably take them to the Children's Adventure Discovery Museum, too.

Jessica goes back to school on August 6th, and she's very excited about Kindergarden. We can't wait to find out who her teacher is, and go shopping for all her supplies! Funny though, all she cares about is finding a rainbow dress to wear on her first day back. My little prissy!

More Wedding Pictures

2009-06-07T11:07:00.003-04:00

Joe and Crystal Walker's Wedding

2009-06-07T10:08:00.004-04:00

I had the pleasure of doing the wedding pictures for Michael's sister's wedding. I thought I'd post a few on here.

The BrideThe Bride with all her Flower Girls and Ring BearerThe Bride and her brother Michael, who also gave her away.The Bride and her BridesmaidsThe Groom

Our New Swing Set

2009-06-04T17:55:00.003-04:00

It took Chris all weekend to get it done, but he finally got the swingset put together. And the kids absolutely LOVE it! I got some pictures, but they're not very good. It's extremely difficult to get pictures of swinging kids! And Brayden was asleep so he's not in them.

Where have you been?

2009-05-27T12:48:00.007-04:00

So, it's been way too long since I last posted! All it takes is a little break, get out of the habit, and suddenly months have passed. I'll try to do better. I know you all just LOVE all my ranting and raving!! Ok, ok, so it's the kids that bring you back. I'm just glad you're here!

What's been going on in our lives over the past 5 months? I guess I should start where I left off!

Brayden had his 3rd birthday!

We finally got moved into our new house. It's been a long time coming, and we're so thrilled. It's amazing how quickly it became "home". There are so many trees I have a hard time getting good pictures. This is the front taken from down the driveway.

This is a close up of the front porch. You can't really tell from the picture, but the porch is so high I can easily walk under it without having to duck.This is the back of the house.

The kids are loving their new bedrooms. Brayden has his own room, and since he's just like his Daddy it's always organized. He has his own big bed, which he's finally decided he likes sleeping in. It took us a full three years, but we finally got the little clinger out of our bed. Yay me!

Jessica and Emma are enjoying their girly room. Unlike their brother however, they refuse to keep it clean. Jessica is very excited to be sleeping on the top of the bunk bed, and although I was a bit worried it seems to be working out ok.

Easter!

Jessica had her 5th birthday!

Jessica finished Pre-K last week, and all she talks about is Kindergarden. She's so excited. She's learned to write her first and last name, and she does a great job counting and recognizing her letters and numbers. It's amazing to see how she's changed since she started in school. Leaving her friends, and especially her teacher, has been very difficult for her. I keep noticing her get very quite at different times during the day. When I ask what's wrong she tells me she misses Ms. Sherry. I think she'll be one of those teachers that Jessica will remember years from now as being a very special influence on her. This is Jessica with Ms. Sherry.

I think that's the highlights. Hopefully I can do better keeping you all up-to-date. Our summer is going to be pretty uneventful, but if the rain will stop we'll be spending alot of time outside. We're in the process right now of getting a nice swingset for the kids. Chris and I spent several hours last weekend clearing out a spot for it amongst the Mountain Laurel. Now we just have to pick up the set and get it put together. Hopefully by the end of this weekend the kids will have a swingset to play on. Jessica is very excited about getting a slide, and Brayden and Emma want nothing more than to swing the day away.

Evening with Santa

2008-12-19T23:23:00.002-05:00

Mama and Daddy's church hosted an Evening with Santa, and I did the pictures for them. It was so fun watching the kids interact with Santa in such a laid back environment. They were able to just sit and talk with him as long as they wanted. Really cute story...Santa is actually a member of their church, and on Sunday we saw him and Brayden got all excited because "Santa came to church!" I thought it was funny that he still associated him as Santa even without the red suit.

Catch up Continued...November pics

2008-12-18T15:43:00.009-05:00

I can't resist posting this. Emma isn't the worst child I've ever seen about taking naps (that award would go to Jessica), but she definately isn't easy. Imagine my surprise when I peeked in from the kitchen to check on the kids...you know that it's-too-quite-so-they're-up-to-no-good feeling, and found this:

Daddy's Birthday:

The kids wanted to make Daddy a birthday cake, and we had so much fun. And they were so proud of it!! And they definately enjoyed decorating it. Don't you just love how perfect the cars are placed...lol!

Hugs:

It's not every day you get a picture like this of these two. They spend more time fighting than any two kids I have EVER seen. So when I get a moment like this out of them I try to capture it forever!

Anyone still listening?

2008-12-18T14:31:00.005-05:00

I can't believe it's been so long since I last posted. I'm such a slacker. Ok, a quick catch-up on pics, 'cause that's why I'm here...pictures. :)

Halloween:

Brayden was a monkey. He wore the same costume he wore last year. I was planning to get him a new one, but he saw this one and had a fit to wear it. Suits me! Those darn costumes are expensive!

Jessica was a ballarina. Poor thing was sick and didn't even feel like going trick-or-treating. All that candy had her feeling better though.

Emma was a cute little pumpkin fairy. She looked cute as a button, but she hated that costume.

Pumpkin Patch:

Here's the kids at the pumpkin patch. We got every year. They just love it. The tractor with the hay ride was pulling in and I couldn't get Brayden's or Emma's attention. They loved the hay ride too. It's fun, but I hate all the straw in my pants afterwards!

Ok, I'll be back with November's pics...

Oh Boy, was I right...

2008-10-25T21:39:00.002-04:00

I absolutely cannot believe how sore I am today. I expected aches and pains, but not this! I can barely move my neck! And my pelvis is killing me! Like I did a million sit ups!

The good news is Chris was able to fix everything on the van, and we didn't have to spend any money on it so far. Two flat tires, the back bumper was falling off, the far back window was falling out, the driver's side door had to be adjusted.... I really tore it up!!

Crazy Day!!

2008-10-24T23:36:00.002-04:00

Wow! It's amazing how much can happen in day. From the very beginning it was one of those days that seems to go on forever. You know, the one where you keep looking at the clock, and you swear it never moves. I really hate days like that! There was alot of anticipation today, so that didn't help.

Chris had a job interview today, and it went really well. They're supposed to call him on Monday. He's got the job, as long as they're willing to pay him what he asked for. We're all excited about this!! It won't mean more money, but it will mean more Daddy. It's closer, so he won't have to spend as much time on the road, and no overtime. Instead of getting home at 7:30 he'll get home around 5:00. Needless to say, this is the answer to a ton of prayers.

After Chris got home I decided I was going to go to town and meet with a group of women I scrapbook with. Well, I never made it. Instead I ended up in the ditch. It was raining and I was going down a hill, around a curve. The van just did a total 180, I hit the ditch sideways, went down the bank and back up again...backwards, and landed in someone's driveway...sideways. It scared the hell out of me, to say the least. I'm out in the middle of nowhere, shaken, in the pouring rain, and no signal on my cell phone. Then what do I do? I get in the truck with a total stranger and he takes me home. Luckily I wasn't hurt, but I am pretty sore. I can only imagine how I'll feel in the morning.

It's just NOT fair!!

2008-10-16T10:12:00.004-04:00

First of all let me preface this by say that I am in no way, shape or form, growing old gracefully...nor willingly. I'm getting very close to my 30th birthday, and I'm determined to be a total grouch about it. So there! I said it! And if anyone sends me an Over the Hill card I'm going to hunt them down! Consider yourself forewarned...

So, what is it I'm whining about today? I decided to grow my hair out to donate to Locks of Love. You have to have at least 10" to cut off, and you can't color it. I haven't had hair that long since I was like 8 years old, and I didn't know what I was getting into! I want it cut so bad, and I have 4" left to grow! So if your hair grows 1/2" a month that means I'm in for a long wait! So anyway, I've been wearing it up like every single day. Straight from the shower to a pony on top of my head. I hate it! And it's getting so long now that it makes my head hurt because it's so heavy. Today I decided to straighten it, and leave it down. I mean, come one...who wants a headache? Well, I found....GRAY! And not just one strand, that I can handle. No, I've got a mess of it! And I can't even color it!! And as if that's not bad enough, where do you think it is? Not underneath where it won't be seen. Nope...it's right on top and falls right in line with my natural part. Waahhhh!! Do those kids really need my hair that bad? Someone remind me WHY I started this in the first place.

Ok, on to another topic. I think things are finally starting to settle down in my house. The kids seem to be feeling better, even if we are still dealing with snotty noses and ugly coughs. I'm praying that it's going to continue to get better.

The kids and I went to spend a few days with Donna last week, and we had a great time! We went to McDonald's and let them play on the playground for what seemed like forever. We did pudding painting, at Elizabeth's request, and they all had a blast painting and eating and then painting some more. And there's really nothing like being able to let the kids eat the mess!! Easy clean-up!! And the pictures turned out so pretty! I can't guarantee that they'll be something that I'll get to show them when they grow up, though. I'm expecting the mold to start growing any day now.

We also went to a pumpkin patch, which Emma slept right through, and then we painted the pumpkins. And let me tell you, Brayden is just like his Daddy. He was so serious, and so meticulous! Everything had to be just so. He really enjoys all things art.

And I took this picture of the gourds at the pumpkin patch. I thought it was really neat!

On our last day there we went to the fall festival, and of course, the kids all got their faces painted. Paint, paint everywhere! It didn't last long though. What is it with kids putting their hands all over their faces?

When it rains it pours!

2008-10-08T16:40:00.003-04:00

Well, that little bug that Emma had turned out to be a real pain! Brayden had a fever for five days, sometimes as high as 103.7, and I can't tell you how many times we had him in the tub because no amount of Tylenol or Motrin would bring it down. It was pretty scary. We took him to the doctor and they started him on antibiotics, and the next day we were in the ER with him because the fever wouldn't budge. That was a waste of time because we ended up with a doctor whose ego was bigger than the state of TX, and a nurse who followed him around kissing his ass and wouldn't quit calling me hunny. Um, I'm not your "hunny". I've never in my life been treated so much like an idiot. In the end I was told that a fever of nearly 104 was "not that bad", to continue the Tylenol and Motrin "as long as I have to" (even though he wouldn't eat), he wrote me a Rx for another antibiotic, and then wanted me to drive an hour and half away to the pharmacy with a very sick child to get it filled (because it was late and no pharmacy was open). THEN made the mistake of telling me he was diagnosing it as viral!! Hello!!! Then WHY are you giving me an antiobiotic?! Yes, that's how stupid he thought I was. Just give the woman something to pacify her so she'll get the hell out of here! I was livid, and they knew it! Then the nurse, during discharge, says "don't worry, this doesn't make you a bad mother". I literally died laughing and told her I wasn't worried about that. Anyway, it took quite a while and a ton of Tylenol and Motrin, but he's better. Then, the very first day he was without a fever I picked Jessica up from school and she has "the look". I knew instantly that it'd moved on to her. I started her on the extra Rx immediately! (I know, slap my hand but I was NOT going back to the ER!) Her temp then was 103, and it went as high as 104.4 before it was over. She missed two days of school, and we used another box of Tylenol and Motrin. Thankfully, by Monday it was gone. Five days for her, too. Whew! Glad that's over!

Emma got packages in the mail a few days ago with gifts for her birthday from my Aunt Nancy and her family. I can remember growing up, Christina and I always looked forward to her gifts. You always knew it was going to be something really neat! Well, her gift is definately Emma's favorite! She sent her a few really cute outfits, the book "Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear?" and the cutest, softest, cuddliest polar bear to go with it. She actually squealed when we pulled it out of the box! I think the pictures speak for themselves.

Playing Catch-Up Again

2008-09-25T21:24:00.007-04:00

It seems since Jessica started school I have no free time. I get up and take her to school, and it seems like I'm just getting home when I have to turn around and head back to town to pick her up. And, as most of you know, it's no quick trip to anywhere around here. And did I mention the gas... No? Ok, well, I better just skip that topic because I can go on all day about how it makes me want to puke to spend $90 to fill up my gas tank, which only lasts a week...if I'm lucky.

But, that does bring me to my next subject. Money! We all need some, right? And it seems these days no one has any. In an attempt to help alleviate the pain at the pump I have started an Etsy Store. Please see the link right over there -------> Yeah! Under "My Favorite Places to Hang Out". If you're interested, take a looksy! I've only just started adding to it with my wonderful crocheted items, but I plan to step it up a notch and add my photography too. Not sure to what extent yet. We shall see. I do however LOVE this backpack!! I made it with the intention of Jessica using it for school, but she has to have one big enough for a folder, so we ended up buying her one instead. I hope some other little princess can enjoy it.

I can't believe that it's happened, but my baby has turned one. We had her a little party with cake and icecream, but she was in a horrible mood. Little did we know she was getting sick, and we'd end up in the E.R. with her the next day. Poor thing had a fever for three solid days. Thankfully she's feeling much better now, but Brayden went to bed tonight with a fever of 101.4. Not good. It never fails though...they all have to get it. Please pray it skips over Jessica and that Brayden gets over it fast. So here are a few pics from Em's birthday. Gotta love the cake covered birthday pictures!! I have pictures of all three of my kids in the same highchair covered with cake and frosting at their first birthday party.

I got to do a fun little photo shoot for Nicole. We took Caleigh outside and got several great shots of her. Nicole had them blown up and framed! I was so glad she liked them! Next time though we have to put that child up higher. Crawling around on the deck to get down to her level was NOT easy! It was worth it though. I think it's time for me to put together a real portfolio. Here are a few of my favorites. We did some cute bare butt pictures, but I'm not going to post them.

Ok, I think that's it for now. If there is anyone out there in cyberspace that actually reads this blog I'd love to hear from you. I'm beginning to think I'm just talking to myself.

Just a quick update...

2008-09-10T21:36:00.003-04:00

I haven't updated in several days so I thought I'd pop on and say hello. There hasn't been much going on with us lately. Jessica is really enjoying PreK. She's learning to write her name, and this week she's learning about farms. And she's making lots of friends, especially all the cute little boys. What can I say...

Emma's birthday is coming up. I can't believe she's already a year old. We're going to have her a little party next Saturday. I always go nuts with the kids' birthdays. I'm going to try my best to keep it simple! But, it is her first birthday!!

Well, that's about it. Boring, I know. I will leave you with these pictures of Papa with his newest grandchild. Caleigh seems to be just like all the others--melt in Papa's arms.

My Little Daredevil

2008-08-30T21:44:00.004-04:00

Emma never ceases to amaze me. She has done everything much sooner than Jessica and Brayden did. Sitting up, standing, crawling...she was walking at 8.5 months!! I was really hoping to keep her a baby alot longer than this. But she refuses to slow down. So, here she is, hasn't even had her first birthday yet, but she's climbing the bookcase!! She did make it all the way up and laid down, but she didn't stay long enough for me to snap a picture.

And while I'm going on about Emma let me show you her temper. I blame this on Chris!

Family Day!

2008-08-30T21:26:00.004-04:00

Today has been a nice day. We don't see much of Chris because he works such long hours, and on the weekends he and Daddy are working on the house. Well, Daddy's out of town this weekend, and we've had so much rain the ground around the house was really muddy. So, he took the day off and spent it with us. The whole day!! And we did absolutely nothing...laid around all day. Let me tell you, it was great!

We did go for a short ride down on the "little truck", as Brayden calls it. It's actually a Polaris Ranger, and it's tons of fun! I took this picture. Not exactly a masterpiece, but nice enough. I took it with my little point and shoot. It's a great little camera, but definately not by 'baby'. I don't usually take my DSLR when we go trail riding though because it's so dusty.

We have siding!!

2008-08-27T10:27:00.003-04:00

It finally looks like we're getting somewhere on our house. One thing after another has slowed us down, and I was beginning to think we were never going to get done. Over the last two months we've gotten the heating and air in, the electric is wired, and the plumbing is done. Whooo Hooo!

Now they're working on the siding, and let me tell you, I'm excited! I can't believe how good it looks! After a bit of arguing we've decided to leave it totally natural. Just clear sealer. I let Chris have his way now...I'll get my way on the inside. :) We've set a goal to be in it by Christmas. Pray we make it!

More Baby Pics!

2008-08-27T10:15:00.002-04:00

Kristen holding Caleigh Caleigh and her Great-Grandma

In total awe...

Once again I'm out done!

2008-08-27T10:04:00.003-04:00

I'm posting these pictures because I know I have alot of family who read this blog and want to see my children, but I'm doing so with total disgust!! While I was taking Nicole's belly shots we were in the middle of a wardrobe change and Emma was crawling all over the backdrop. I handed Chris the camera and told him to snap a few pictures. He managed to capture these two. Now, I love the pictures!! But it bugs me to no end that he can do this without even trying. It's not fair!!!

Ok, I'm done whinning...

Amicalola Falls

2008-08-27T09:51:00.002-04:00

On our way home from Hartwell a few weeks ago we decided to stop at Amicalola Falls to let the kids get out of the car for a while. If you've never been, it's a great place to stop. It's beautiful, and there are lots of places for the kids to play. There's a lodge at the top, too, which is gorgeous! We hiked up to the bottom of the falls, which is quite a hike with the kids. One day I want to go to the top, but not carrying a baby.

Jessica's First Day of School!

2008-08-27T09:41:00.005-04:00

Jessica started Pre-K this year! I can't believe my baby has grown so fast. I swear she was just born yesterday!

She was so excited about her first day. We'd already visited her classroom and met her teacher, Ms. Sherry, so she was ready to go! And she did great! I took her in, Ms. Sherry took her to her seat, and she never looked back! I, on the other hand, did...

...continued!

2008-08-27T09:03:00.008-04:00

Introducing....

Caleigh Nicole! Here she is just minutes old. Isn't she just the most adorable thing ever?! She was not at all pleased with all the bright lights, and the camera flash really made her mad.

And here is the Proud Daddy getting his first look at his new daughter. Priceless! He was so excited. Can you tell?

This is Mommy finally getting to hold her daughter. She was so happy she couldn't stop crying.

And the new little family!

Way Behind...Again

2008-08-26T22:30:00.002-04:00

So, as it turns out trying to take a picture every day is way to much for me. I mean, come on, my life is to chaotic. Who needs the extra stress, right!? In an effort to keep blogging I'm going to do what I want, when I want to do it. What a concept! I know everyone loves to see my little ones, and I do love showing them off.

Let me try to update what's gone on in my life since I last blogged:

We've had yet another addition to our growing family. My sister Nicole had her baby, another girl in the family. Poor Brayden; he's destined to play dress up. Caleigh Nicole was born on August 6th, with a full head of the longest, darkest hair I've ever seen on a newborn. She's absolutely gorgeous, and her Mommy says she's a very happy baby. Come to think of it, I don't think I've ever even heard her cry, other than when she first entered the world, of course.

Even though I know Nicole is going to kill me I'm going to show off her belly pics. We took these just a few days before Caleigh was born. I'm thrilled with them!

I'll be back tomorrow with pictures of Little Caleigh!

Day Eighty-two!

2008-07-08T22:19:00.002-04:00

Here's some of the cute little hats I've made.

Day Eighty-one!

2008-07-08T22:12:00.002-04:00

Day Eighty! ~ Happy 4th of July!

2008-07-08T21:57:00.004-04:00

We had red and blue cupcakes for 4th of July. Of course, the kids had fun just making a mess. I love how happy they look in these pictures.

Day Seventy-nine!

2008-07-08T21:52:00.003-04:00

I've started crocheting baby hats to donate, and I had a ton of yarn donated to me. This was the most beautiful rainbow!! I just love it!

Day Seventy-eight!

2008-07-08T21:44:00.004-04:00

Chris gets another task on his Daddy-Do-List. Like he needed another job...

Day Seventy-seven!

2008-07-08T21:33:00.003-04:00

This picture is from our first visit with Miss Brianna. She's such a beautiful child. And who can resist a baby's yawn. Sweet as can be.

Day Seventy-six!

2008-06-18T22:49:00.002-04:00

Emma has started sticking her tounge out all the time. Always on the side! It's so cute! I've been trying to capture it on camera for awhile, but she's always on the move. I finally got her to sit still for two seconds for me to get it tonight!

Day Seventy-five!

2008-06-18T22:26:00.003-04:00

Jessica is hilarious! I got the camera out and she ran all over the house. I chased her for awhile, but she got tired. I caught her off guard and snapped this one. When she saw the camera she screamed!

Day Seventy-four!

2008-06-18T22:18:00.003-04:00

Brayden loves to watch off-road videos on Papa's computer. I thought he looked so cute sitting at the desk today. He looks like he's working hard, huh!

OCP Challenge ~ How God Has Shown Me His Fatherly Love

2008-06-18T18:42:00.003-04:00

This challenge has proved to be difficult for me. Honestly, the last few months I've felt very lonely. It seems as if nothing in my life is as I want or expect it to be. My family is living with my parents while we build a house, which is taking much, much longer than we had planned. Chris is working very long hours at a job that is two hours away. He's also in school. We never see each other, and he never sees the kids. Because the kids miss Daddy I have to do my best to make up for that, and they are very grumpy. I never really get a break because Daddy's so busy. I've found myself spending several evenings alone in my bed, crying myself to sleep, and feeling more lonely than I've ever felt.

When I read what the challenge was for this week I initially thought about skipping it, but instead I thought about what the last several years have been like. It occurred to me that in the midst of everything God has been the only constant in my life. No matter what trial or tribulation my family and I are going through we always know that we'll make it through it, with Him by our side. This is only a season in my life. A better job will come along, school will eventually end, one day we WILL get in that house, and the kids will grow up. All I can do is live the life that I have now, be thankful for every moment, and make every day special. After all, no one is guaranteed tomorrow.

So, God has shown me His Fatherly love through this challenge. He reminded me that even though I don't always feel Him beside me, He's there. And even when I feel all alone, I'm not. And that's such a comfort.

Day Seventy-three! Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-18T14:26:00.002-04:00

And here is Miss Brianna Hope! Born on June 15th, Father's Day, 6lbs., 12.5oz. and 19 inches long. She's absolutely beautiful!

Day Seventy-two!

2008-06-18T14:16:00.003-04:00

This is my sister, Amber, in labor. Poor thing was in labor for 22 hours, so this is the only picture I have for today.

Day Seventy-one!

2008-06-18T14:13:00.001-04:00

Day Seventy!

2008-06-17T21:53:00.002-04:00

When Brayden is sleepy, he'll fall asleep anywhere. I put a movie on for them and they both climbed up in Papa's chair. About 5 minutes later I came back in the living room and Brayden had laid down and went to sleep just like this:

OCP Challenge ~ Favorite Childhood Summer Memory

2008-06-12T11:46:00.003-04:00

My favorite summer as a child was definately when my family rented a house on Jekyll Island. We invited my grandmothers, aunts and uncles, cousins, and my sister and I each got to bring a friend. I was around 15 at the time. We spent nearly two weeks doing nothing but laying on the beach and making awesome memories. We found TONS of sand dollars, we went bike riding around the island, and spent time with family. My grandmother told us ghost stories every night. We went out to eat seafood and the waitress dropped a whole pitcher of tea in the floor and it splashed all over my uncle. We got to see baby sea turtles make their way towards the sea. It's amazing the memories we made in that one summer. Jekyll Island has been a special place for my entire family ever since.

Day Sixty-nine!

2008-06-11T22:38:00.003-04:00

Jessica's learned how to give Butterfly Kisses! It's just so sweet!

Day Sixty-eight!

2008-06-11T22:29:00.003-04:00

Brayden LOVES books! Any chance he gets he's reading. All three of the kids are signed up to get a free book in the mail every month. They get so excited when those books are in the mailbox! Then we sit down and read each one. This particuar picture is Grandma reading Emma's baby book that came today. It's Baby's First Book of Colors. We've been working on colors with Brayden, and even though he really can't say the words very well, I think he's getting the colors. This book is nice because it's actually two books in one and he can match up the picture with the color. I think it'll really help him learn.

Day Sixty-seven!

2008-06-11T22:19:00.002-04:00

Emma never goes to sleep in anyone's arms, unless she's in mine nursing. But, there is definately something about Papa's lap. She climbs up in his arms and gets so comfy. Well, for once she actually got comfy enough to doze off. Before long they were both sleeping!

Day Sixty-six!

2008-06-10T21:04:00.001-04:00

Day Sixty-five!

2008-06-10T12:31:00.003-04:00

We had a family picnic at church on Sunday. We had a great time, but boy was it hot! We put our blanket in the shade, and Emma was so cute. She crawled all over it, but once she got to the edge she was afraid to go off on the grass. She had fun eating all kinds of things too. We had to watch her because she wanted Brayden's chicken leg! She finally got an apple wedge and gnawed on it until it was gone.
Brayden had fun running all over. He went up to the edge of the trees and said he was in the woods. Here he is eating a chicken leg "in the woods". Of course, all the older people in the church just love my kids. There aren't many little ones in church, so they get lots of attention. Jessica spent all her time sitting with Grandma eating a giant piece of watermelon. I had planned to get a picture, but it got so hot that we ended up leaving before I could. One minute the kids were playing, the next there faces were red and hot and they were laying on our shoulders. As soon as we got in the car they were fast asleep.

Day Sixty-four!

2008-06-10T12:24:00.002-04:00

Day Sixty-three!

2008-06-06T21:13:00.003-04:00

Day Sixty-two!

2008-06-06T21:03:00.004-04:00

Day Sixty-one!

2008-06-04T21:35:00.003-04:00

Is there anything sweeter than a Daddy with his Little Girl? Love it!

Day Sixty!

2008-06-03T18:17:00.003-04:00

This picture was taken with ISO 200, f/1.8, 1/200s. I'm pleased! :)

Day Fifty-nine!

2008-06-03T13:37:00.002-04:00

We've got teeth! Ok, so they're a little hard to see, but they're there! Barely...

Day Fifty-eight!

2008-06-03T11:01:00.004-04:00

The kids love it when Daddy gets in the floor with them!

Day Fifty-seven!

2008-06-03T10:36:00.003-04:00

Day Fifty-six!

2008-06-03T10:10:00.003-04:00

Emma, 8 months old

Day Fifty-five!

2008-06-03T10:01:00.003-04:00

This is our house from the front. We're finally getting somewhere! I love the country porch on the front. This has been such a slow process. I just can't wait to get done!

Day Fifty-four!

2008-06-03T09:49:00.003-04:00

The dogs were going nuts barking and we couldn't figure out why! I could tell whatever it was they were a scared of it. After hours of them driving us crazy we finally figured out what it was. A racoon in the tree! The poor thing was treed, scared to death, and worn out. We bribed the dogs with food so they'd come in the house, and the poor thing climbed down and wandered off. Of course, we were still afraid to go outside in case it was rabid. They really are cute little things though!

Day Fifty-three!

2008-06-03T09:38:00.002-04:00

I love this picture! Chris is really funny about giving the kids messy food, so I was really surprised when he gave her a chocolate chip cookie, and held her while she ate it. She was a mess, but she sure did enjoy it! And Daddy handled clean-up pretty well, too.

Day Fifty-two!

2008-06-02T22:41:00.002-04:00

This is a work in progress. This will eventually be a blanket for Nicole's baby. I really love the way this picture turned out.

Day Fifty-one!

2008-06-02T22:34:00.003-04:00

This is a blanket I crocheted for Amber's baby. The blanket will go home with the baby and her adoptive parents, and the little heart will be for Amber to keep.

Day Fifty! An attempt to catch up!

2008-06-02T22:18:00.003-04:00

Ok, so I got WAY behind! I'm going to post several blogs and attempt to catch up. Unfortunately there isn't one for every day. I'll just have to get back on the ball!

Christina and I took the kids to Chuck E. Cheese. Here are a few for your viewing pleasure. Brayden absolutely LOVED the carousel. Jessica went from one thing to the next so fast she made my head spin. We had a great time, but man it's hard to keep up with that many kids!

Day Forty-nine!

2008-04-30T22:51:00.004-04:00

Brayden is alot like Jessica when it comes to taking his picture, except that for him it's all about making me work for it. He likes to run from me, turn away just as I'm about to get the perfect shot, or do silly things like put his passy in backwards. But, I do love how some of his pictures turn out because this is so typical of his personality. Always the cut-up!

Day Forty-eight!

2008-04-30T22:45:00.003-04:00

Jessica, on the other hand, never lets me take her picture without a fight. She refuses to smile for me, and is constantly snapping at me to get the camera out of her face. Any good picture I get of her is completely accidental, and always when she's not expecting it. Getting a picture like this one is exciting for me!

Day Forty-seven!

2008-04-30T22:36:00.002-04:00

I have so much fun taking pictures of Emma! She used to sit still for me, but not anymore. But all I have to do is say her name and she lights right up and gives me such cute grins. And her eyes...unbelievable!

Day Forty-six!

2008-04-30T22:26:00.003-04:00

I can't take credit for these pictures. Chris actually took them, but they were so cute I wanted to post them. Chris never ceases to amaze me. He's great at everything he does. I love photography, but I struggle to get great pictures. I have to think everything through. Chris picks up my camera, leaves it on Auto, and gets pictures like these! Go figure.

Day Forty-five!

2008-04-30T22:15:00.002-04:00

Today we went to Day Out With Thomas! The kids had a blast! It was amazing for them to see Thomas up close and personal like that. We spent several hours at all of the activities, and then took a ride on Thomas. By the time we were done the kids were all exhausted. We got back to our room and we all crashed and took a nap.

Day Forty-four!

2008-04-28T15:29:00.003-04:00

Chris and I took the kids to Chattanooga for the weekend. On Friday we went to the Tennessee Aquarium. If you've never been it's worth it! It is the largest aquarium I've ever been to, and there is so much to see! One of the best exhibits was the penguins. I love how amazed Jessica looks in this picture!

Outside of the aquarium they have it set up with a stream and some neat artwork in the concrete. Since the weather was nice we let the kids get wet. They had so much fun!

Afterwards it was back to the room, and we ordered pizza delivery. We were all too tired to go out! Plus, we need our rest! Tomorrow....Thomas!!

Day Forty-three!

2008-04-28T15:25:00.003-04:00

Day Forty-two!

2008-04-23T21:23:00.003-04:00

Baby Maple Leaves!

Day Forty-one!

2008-04-23T21:10:00.006-04:00

Wild Azaleas!

Day Forty!

2008-04-23T21:04:00.002-04:00

I finally got some close ups of the dogwoods!

Day Thirty-nine!

2008-04-20T20:59:00.004-04:00

The Clematis is in bloom! This vine gets the biggest buds on it, and in the past we've had the hardest time keeping Jessica and Brayden from picking them before they even blossom. Well, this year we've made a big deal about the beautiful flowers, and instead of picking them they're excited to see new flowers opening every time we go outside. Yesterday there was only one flower fully opened. Today there's at least five! Jessica's thrilled!

Day Thirty-eight!

2008-04-20T20:52:00.003-04:00

The wild dogwood is in bloom right now, and they are everywhere! And absolutely beautiful! Chris and I and the kids rode around looking for one that was low enough for me to get a close up of the flower, but we couldn't find one. I took this one though, and I'm fairly pleased with it. I haven't given up the hunt yet. I may have to get Chris to drive his 4-wheel drive so I can climb up on top of it to get close enough for a close up shot.

Day Thirty-seven!

2008-04-20T20:41:00.002-04:00

This is a picture of Jessica reading to Brayden. These kids absolutely love books, and Jessica has alot of them memorized. She can't read yet, but you'd never know it because she can recite them word for word. And it's so sweet to see her sharing that with her little brother.

Oh, and don't you love the sunglasses?!

Day Thirty-six!!

2008-04-17T10:07:00.003-04:00

This is a rare occassion! Jessica is not a morning person, and as soon as she gets out of bed she climbs up in the chair to pout for an hour or so while she wakes up. Usually if Brayden goes near her she starts grumbling. Well, this morning he climbed up in the chair with her, and not only did she allow it, but she actually snuggled with him. I grabbed the camera and got a few shots really quick before she rolled over and hid her face. Ah, the joy!

Day Thirty-five!

2008-04-16T22:26:00.001-04:00

I got my new 50mm 1.8 lens today, and I love it!! I'm not sure what it is, but I love this picture of Jessica.

Day Thirty-four!

2008-04-16T00:05:00.002-04:00

Day Thirty-three!

2008-04-13T20:40:00.003-04:00

Christina was here for Jessica's birthday party, and she wanted me to get some pictures of her and Kristen. It was bright outside, but we found a nice shady spot. I thought they turned out pretty good. This one is my favorite.

Day Thirty-two!

2008-04-13T20:00:00.003-04:00

We had Jessica's birthday party today. Tinker Bell, Tinker Bell, Everywhere!! Her cake was beautiful, but she was a bit too impatient. I was so upset, and it was at that moment I realized the cake and decorations were more important to me than they were to her. Her rationale: "I was fixing it so we could eat it!"

She is very into princess things right now, and she got lots of it. By the time she got finished dressing up she was Princess Ballarina Barbie Mariposa!!

Day Thirty-one!

2008-04-12T22:44:00.003-04:00

Today we took Jessica to see My Little Pony Live! She had a blast! It was such a cute show. It was so fun to watch the look on her face.

Day Thirty!

2008-04-12T22:21:00.002-04:00

Emma's become quite a handful to change! She flips and flops all over the place! It takes two people, one to hold her still, one to fasten the diaper! All she wants is be on her belly so she can get away!

Day Twenty-nine!

2008-04-12T22:10:00.002-04:00

More playing with settings on my camera. I'm having a hard time understanding depth of field, so I've been working on that. I thought this one turned out pretty good, nice blurry background, subject in focus. Still don't understand it very well though.

Day Twenty-eight!

2008-04-08T22:14:00.004-04:00

Anyone who knows Jessica knows that she has a mind of her own, and if you make her mad she falls to pieces. Well, her latest "thing" is wearing her jammies, all day, every day. After wearing the same pair for two days straight I finally made her take them off so I could wash them. Correction, I physically removed them so I could wash them. Needless to say, she was ticked. She layed in the chair crying and flat refused to get dressed. I grabbed the camera. One day when she has kids of her own that deserve the Drama Queen crown, I want to pull these pictures out to show her. This one is after she quit crying and got pouty because she didn't want me to take her picture.

Day Twenty-seven!

2008-04-08T22:10:00.002-04:00

Kristen in the Thomas tent.

Taken in Manual, ISO 800, SS 1/100, f/5.6

Day Twenty-six!

2008-04-06T22:45:00.002-04:00

I love this picture! Emma is very much a Mommy's Girl, so it's not often that Daddy gets the chance to cuddle with her like this. Having her fall asleep on his shoulder was even more special.

Manual, ISO 800, SS 1/100, f/5.6, edited to b&w

Day Twenty-five!

2008-04-05T11:40:00.003-04:00

I'm not sure what it is about Grandpa, but he's the only person Emma lays down on like this. Not even Mommy! Doesn't she look comfy!?

Manual, ISO 400, SS 1/200, f/5.6

Day Twenty-four!

2008-04-05T11:32:00.002-04:00

This is my little superstar! I can't get the camera out without her jumping in front of it.

Manual, ISO 400, SS 1/200, f/5.6

Day Twenty-three!

2008-04-02T17:45:00.002-04:00

Today is my sister's birthday! In her honor I'm posting a picture of her holding my darling Emma. She could definately pass as hers!! Happy Birthday Tina!!

Day Twenty-two!

2008-04-02T17:11:00.003-04:00

Here's yesterday's picture. Taken in manual, ISO 400, SS 1/160, f5.6, edited to B&W. I must say, I'm proud of this one.

Day Twenty-one!

2008-04-01T22:14:00.001-04:00

Day Twenty!

2008-04-01T22:05:00.002-04:00

I know this isn't a great picture, but I love how excited he is!

Day Nineteen!

2008-03-29T18:14:00.003-04:00

I spent most of the day reading the manual for my camera. With every new thing I learned I had to try it out, right! I drove my poor kids crazy...

This is a picture of Jessica trying to eat lunch. She'd finally had enough and and snapped at me, "Quit taking my picture!" I managed to get her showing some real attitude. Now, some of you may not believe it, but this is the real Jessica. All attitude, all the time! Honestly!

This picture was edited to black and white, and then tinted with a little bit of color. I thought it was sorta neat.

Day Eighteen!!

2008-03-28T15:03:00.002-04:00

Today I took my camera off of the Auto Mode. I took tons of pictures, most of which suck, but after fiddling with the settings I did get some good ones. Here's my favorite!

Day Seventeen!

2008-03-27T21:31:00.002-04:00

I love this warm weather!! Everything is starting to bloom and it's so beautiful! Spring is my favorite season. I love how everything is new. It's so easy to be happy.

Day Sixteen!

2008-03-26T21:07:00.002-04:00

I'm not sure what these little flowers are, but they're beautiful! This is the closeup.

And this is the whole vine growing up over the fence. Georgeous!

Day Fifteen!

2008-03-25T21:32:00.003-04:00

Ok, I confess, I didn't actually take this picture today. I took it over the weekend. But, I just love it, so I'm posting it anyway. Emma loves "flying"!! When you hold her up in the air she kicks her feet like she trying to swim.

Day Fourteen!

2008-03-24T23:35:00.002-04:00

I got this picture tonight after supper. Brayden was so sleepy, and I didn't want him to get jealous of Chris holding Emma, so I asked him to hold her instead. He was proud to do that!

Day Twelve! Easter!

2008-03-24T21:57:00.003-04:00

The kids were so cute when they got out of bed! I thought Jessica would notice the Easter baskets as soon as she woke up, but she walked right by them over and over! As soon as Brayden sat up he saw his. He didn't really care about the basket though, just the car in it. Brayden got a car, Jessica got Mariposa Barbie, and Emma got her first Bible. As fun as Easter is with the bunnies and eggs, it's important to us that our kids know the real meaning behind it. All of our kids have gotten their first Bible for their first Easter.

Day Eleven!

2008-03-24T18:10:00.002-04:00

I'm trying to get caught up on my posting! The holiday weekend has thrown me off. Saturday was a long, long day for us, and I took way too many pictures to post only one. Chris and I got up early and waited in line for 2.5 hours to register Jessica for Pre-K. They only let the first 140 kids in, so even though they didn't start until 9:00 a.m., we were there at 6:30 a.m. to hold our spot. I sat out on the sidewalk wrapped in a quilt, with tons of other crazy parents, while Chris sat in the car with Emma to keep her warm. All I kept thinking as I watched the line grow longer and longer was that I couldn't believe I hadn't brought my camera!

When we got home we immediately piled all the kids in the car and drove the 2.5 hours to Hartwell to have Easter with my family. When we got there we had an egg hunt, which the kids loved! We started this tradition before Jessica was even born, and we've made sure to do it every year since. Luckily this year we had beautiful weather for it!

Brayden needed a little help to get started. He picked up a few eggs, and then he was done. He left his bag laying on the ground and went to find Kristen's bike. Boys!

Jessica followed Kristen everywhere she went! They both had tons of eggs!

Desiree's basket was overloaded!

Kristen found the prize egg! Two whole dollars!

After the egg hunt we dyed Easter eggs. I know, I know, we did it in the wrong order. But we didn't want the real eggs outside for the egg hunt because it was so warm out. They had a blast dying the eggs.

Jessica dyed every single egg she had yellow. Every one!

They had such a mess...

...but the eggs were beautiful!!

After that we went out to eat Mexican. My favorite! When we finished we decided that instead of going back to my grandmother's house we were going on to the hotel and getting the kids in bed. It had just been a long day. Plus, we had to get ready for the Easter Bunny!

Day Ten!

2008-03-24T09:21:00.002-04:00

I took this picture on Friday.

After working long hours all week long, Chris usually gets home from work early on Fridays. Now that the time has changed and the weather is getting a bit warmer we can actually go outside and play. I snapped this picture of him holding Emma sitting in the swing.

Day Nine!

2008-03-20T22:26:00.002-04:00

I had hoped to post pictures from the Easter play that my father was in, but unfortunately my children behaved horribly like the 2 and 4 year old that they are, and I never even took the camera out of it's bag. When we got home I told Jessica I needed to take her picture. She promptly went running. I snapped a few anyway, and was able to actually get a "real" smile. You know, not that "cheesy" smile!! Please excuse the war wound on her lip. That's what you get when your little brother gets tired of you picking on him.

Day Eight!

2008-03-19T22:33:00.003-04:00

My father has been growing a beard for several weeks now preparing for an Easter program at church. He's Simon in a Last Supper play. Emma just loves it!! When he's holding her she plays with his beard, and it's so cute. I got a picture today because the play is tomorrow, and I know as soon as it's over he's shaving it off!