The Cole's est.2002

June girl....and other summer birthdays

2009-09-28T19:27:00.000-07:00

Maggie Claire is turning two come and celebrate at Maggie Moo! For Maggie's 2nd birthday we had a birthday party at an ice cream parlor called Maggie Moo's. It was just too perfect and I couldn't pass it up! The kids had ice cream cupcakes and Maggie got some great gifts like this adorable 'bike' that Daddy accidentally ran over a month later. Some how it got left out behind his car and well...it was fun while it lasted. She also received baby Millie her baby that drinks and really sucks a bottle. She LOVES her babies. Sweet Girls...I mean who wouldn't want to just eat them up?

There were soooo many parties this summer but just a little room to document with pics.

Jack's party was so neat. It had big trucks that the kids got to get in. They also brought their ride on toys so we had to go to Mamaws and borrow the gator! It was a hit with at least three kids on it at a time.

I just LOVE this picture of Parker. He is the one center stage with the blue trunks. This was also one of the neatest parties. Our local fire station let Caden celebrate his 5th birthday with the real firemen. We got to eat cake in their cafeteria, see where they sleep, watch them slide down the pole and then they took the ladder all the way up and sprayed all the kids! They had a ball!

Baby Vivian had her birthday this summer too! All summer Devon (who hardly looked pregnant) kept up with the rest of us at Magic Springs and then had a perfect baby girl...to go with her two boys! We tried to stay up and wait for her but decided at about 1 that if we would just leave she would come and we were right!

March and April cont...

2009-09-22T19:11:00.000-07:00

Easter came and silly me had no decent camera to document how cute my babies were. This is after a long day of church, lunch, and indoor hunt because it POURED rain all day. There were adorable though. Parker had these pin striped pants I found at Gap for 10 dollars and a long sleeved polo for 15. I bought him some fake Sperry's from Target and since a teenager that plays the drums in the band at church has some like them, we still refer to them as drummer shoes. Maggie had a pink sailor dress and precious Willetwhite shoes. Before I had a girl I used to look at all those classic willit shoes and think how cute they were. She also had a white bow on a headband which looked so sweet with her curls. We took Parker with us to big church because our service was a musical that morning. He was perfect. I am sure he thinks there is a big performance every week that he is missing out on!
Maggie became quite the artist. It does run in the family but...well...I would appreciate a different canvas! No big deal because down the road from this time (last week) I repainted her room. Parker sang with the preschool at his spring concert. So funny! He was an angel (literally) but the only picture I have of him in his wings he is about to attack Tate...not so angelic moment!

I kept my nieces in April for a week. It was a lot of fun and only a bit more work to have them. I am so glad they are all close in age.

On the last night Anna and Kate were with me Mom came down and kept the babies while I took Parker and Anna to Disney on Ice. Fair warning: the price of the tickets is not the expensive part! The souvenirs had to cost more than the ones at actual Disney World! We had a good time and will have to go again with Kate and Maggie! Anna dressed as Tinkerbell and truly thought people didn't know she wasn't the real one. So funny!

March...and a little of April

2009-09-22T18:51:00.000-07:00

Since it has been so rediculously long since I have updated I will try to update last spring and summer in a few posts. Sad I know but it is better than nothing! We will start with March and April.

Jer turned 33 and I baked him a pie and the kids gave him all kinds of wonderful toys from their rooms! How thoughtful! Daddy usually gets the short end of the stick when it comes to birthdays. Money just doesn't seem to be in abundance that time of year. He is a good sport and somehow we make up for it later in the year.
Parker had his first of several precious T-Ball games. He played for the learning center and had the most wonderful coach ever. He played Baseball at Henderson State (Jer and my alma mater) but was as laid back and patient as could be. His little boy and girl were on the team as well so it was just a wonderful time of getting to know new parents and kids. Parker LOVED it! I have always thought he was rather ahead of the game when it comes to loving sports and several times he proved my theory correct. I loved being at the park and can't wait to spend more time there over the years.

Parker turned 4 in April. We had a great party at Build A Bear in the mall. Ten of his adorable friends joined him to build their own animal and joined us for cake in the food court. It was a great party. Parker asked for super hero stuff. He got a lot of great gifts including a Leapster from Mommy and Daddy and a batmobile from Mamaw and Papaw. He got a life size Batman from Mimi and lots of other fun stuff.

Where is my blogging spirit?...and T-ball

2009-04-14T18:54:00.000-07:00

I have had so many big events this past month but absolutely no drive to post. Since this IS my scrapbook I have to write about it now before I forget.

T-ball

Parker made the T-ball cut off by almost a month. Tate and Parker are the youngest on the team. He is playing with boys that are already six. At their first game Parker and Tate were still three. I was worried that we may have started too soon but I feel better after being to practice and a game. His buddies Tate, Caden, and John Michael are all on his team which adds to the fun in the stands. Parker had his first "practice" which was actually just a meeting where parents recieved the schedule and supplies needed. He was very disappointed when he found out that they were not actually practicing so Coach Chris let the boys hit the practice stick.

Can you tell he was excited?

Tate, Parker, and Caden three of the cutest baseball boys around!

The Rockhounds had their first game two weeks ago and it was probably the cutest thing I have ever seen. It is funny how proud you can be of a little boy who know next to nothing about the rules of the game. Honestly though I was suprised how well they actually did. Parker's first turn up at bat you would have thought he won an oscar he was smiling so big. When he made it to first he did try to field the next team mates ball. Too funny! When he made it home he faced the crowd and gave a big "I did it!" I am not going to lie... I teared up. I see a long future hanging out at the ball field in a lawn chair. Good times!

Go #6!

Big girl bed!

2009-03-18T19:56:00.000-07:00

Since I posted last things have changed a bit here. Jer is on the road during the week for the next few months so mommy dearest is in full charge. It is hard but I have great friends who are very thoughtful to help out now and again. I don't know how single moms do it. Last week Maggie climbed out of her crib and hit her head pretty good so I decided to go to a toddler bed. My mother in law suggested Duck Duck Goose and since it was opening for the presale I tracked down a pass so I could get first pick. Thanks Jordan! Well I was looking for a $40 toddler bed but instead I bought a sleigh bed with a trundle...a bit more than I was going to spend : ) I just thought what is the point of buying something for a short while when I could get a great deal on a gently used bed...with a trundle. When Jer got home on Friday we went to LR to pick it up. As I moved the crib out of the way I realized I never took pictures of her crib and canopy. So I snapped a few shots of the canopy. Her bumper and crib bedding had been replaced with not so matching practical blankets so I didn't include them in the picture.
Then kids 'helped' Daddy with the bed. It is kinda sad letting the crib go. When Parker moved into a bed it was because Maggie was on the way. Now I don't have a baby anymore. (sorta)
This is a picture of the bedding I picked out. It was harder than I thought to find something I liked. I really liked all the whimsical birds from her nursery but it seemed all the girl bedding I found looked the same...floral pink. I can't stand princess stuff so that was not even an option. For a little girl it is either butterflies, flowers (daisies), or princess. If you don't care for any of that it is slim pickins! It is supposed to be here tomorrow and if I am a better blogger than I have been lately I will post a pic of it all made up.

Maggie slept in her bed for the first time Monday night and did great. She slept until 9 AM. I went in to wake her up and take her picture. Sorry the picture stinks but it is from the video camera...I couldn't handle both so I used it instead.

Kites and an award

2009-02-25T19:49:00.000-08:00

It has been so long since I posted and I really have no excuse. We had a really windy day recently and I had promised Parker that we would fly kites as soon as it was warmer and windy. I am pretty big on the nap schedule thing but after school and lunch we decided we couldn't wait till nap was over. The weather around here is so unpredictable you just gotta go with it. Parker did great. It was so windy that I really didn't have to help all that much. Which was a good thing since it was one of those days that the mail man wanted to talk and the Jahovah witnesses did too. Ha. They have been after me since college I swear! As usual Mags was content doing her own thing...pulling around a wagon collecting nuts and random pieces of mulch...basic 21 month old projects. She did take a seat to be Parker's cheerleader. It is days like these that make me wonder why I am so blessed. Gotta love that belly!

I think the only reason he wasn't upset here was because he knew I could reach it.

And...

I recieved an award!

Adrienne sent me this award. Not sure I deserve this one because my attitude not always lemony fresh! But I love her for it anyway! Thanks. I do have gratitude to my God. I know everything that is good in my life is from Him!

Here are the rules:

1. Put the logo on your blog.

2. Nominate 8 other blogs which show great attitude and or gratititude.

3. Link to the nominees.

4. Let them know by leaving them a comment.

5. Share the love and link to this post and to the person from whom you received your reward.

I nominate:

Amy
Jordan
Ashley
Mandy

Hide and no seek...

2009-02-10T10:26:00.000-08:00

Today we got the play dough out. Sometimes I feel bad for Parker because Maggie is too young to know how to play with a lot of fun things so she ends up messing up his creation or stealing the tools. I guess those are the things that build the older siblings character. This is Maggie with the play dough roller hiding from me. Every time I called her name like I was looking for her she looked down a little further and leaned in the closet a little more. It was so funny. As soon as she saw I had a camera she turned around and cheesed for the camera.
Parker made me a cake! I just love play dough cake!

Preschool

2009-02-04T19:09:00.000-08:00

For anyone who knows me knows my precious baby boy has had a rough first semester of preschool. I, being a former teacher and former class pet was truly horrified by the wildness of my perfect child. I could not believe for example he 1. stuck his tongue out at the preschool director 2. Slapped his teacher of the bum! 3. and countless other minor infractions during the course of the semester. I have been extremely emotional about the whole thing. I have been unable to talk to his teacher about it without tearing up...which has made things slightly awkward. LOL. During the course of my bible study last week I discovered this whole thing is NOT that big a deal. The problem has been my attitude. I learned I can not control my son. It doesn't mean I can't discipline him but I can't control him and I can't let his behavior control me. I have given it to God. I am working on responding instead of reacting and would you believe he has had WONDERFUL reports this week. Another teacher actually stopped me to compliment his behavior at recess. Recess is where most of his problems seem to happen. I know he won't always have perfect days. He is three. But I have decided I will not agonize over his behavior any longer. I will be diligent in discipline and leave the rest up to God. I think God knew what he was up to because this week happened to be Parker's turn to be "Star Student" This entitles him 3 blissful days of bringing snack, leading the line, sharing show and tell, AND

holding the flag! For snack his crazy mom thought it was 'N' week but really it was 'O' so the Nemo fruit snacks, Nutty bars, and Nilla Cakesters were a waste. ugh...it pays to be organized! So Parker and I made orange jello jigglers, and oreos to make amends for Wednesday's and Friday's class. I guess I can say that preschool has definitely been a learning experience....I just hope I am not the only one learning.

Big gol Pannys!

2009-01-27T06:55:00.000-08:00

Maggie has become infatuated with the potty lately. She pee-peed in the potty a few mornings in a row. Since we are stuck inside with bad weather I decided we would try out our new panties. I was convinced (still am) that little boy underwear is the cutest thing ever but Maggie in panties is almost a tie.

The title of this entry comes from my niece Anna. When she was learning to talk my mom kept Parker and her while I was still working. My mom was folding laundry which included her underwear. Anna kept saying what my mom thought was "Big Ole Panties!" My sister laughed when mom told her what Anna said. Then figured out she was saying "Big girl panties!" Too funny!

Update: in the less then ten minutes from her initial visit to the potty, my taking the picture, and starting this post....a puddle on the floor and a very confused 20 month old. Oh well she only has three pair. This potty training session will go by quickly!

2009-01-23T15:32:00.001-08:00

Examples of those questions/arguments:

"Mom, what are they doing?"

"It looks like they are cutting down trees."

"No they're not.......Well if they are why are they doing that?"

"Maybe they are going to use the wood to make a house or paper. We use wood to make lots of things."

"Like zoos?"

"I guess some things at the zoo are made from wood."

" I bet they are building a zoo there." (keep in mind this is on a rural road in Bryant)

"I don't think they are building a zoo right here."

"Yes they are! Why would you say that Mom?"

I knew as I wrote my post yesterday I wanted to remember those conversations that happen 100 times a day. So this is for me....one of those things I will look back and laugh at but right now drive you up the wall when they occur sooooo often. I love that kid!

Speaking of cute!

2009-01-22T11:37:00.000-08:00

Today at nap time I found Maggie in Parker's bed. She said,"night night, bubba" I said you want to sleep with Parker. " uh huh" She then points to the bookshelf and says "I uh book." Her communication blows me away. Parker could list hundreds of nouns at this age. He did not speak to communicate at her age. It was totally to list. He loved word books, so does she, but she wants to talk about the pictures. It is amazing to me. She can tell me she is hot or cold. She can tell me, "i wan down/up" She can ask me to open or close something. She even says thank you without being prompted. I have definitely seen babies more advanced them my two but I still think mine are brilliant...and being exceptionally sweet doesn't hurt either. We went to lunch the other day and ran into a girl I went to high school with. She has cerebral palsy and is slightly MR. Parker knew right away she was different and was a little scared. As soon as I introduced her to the kids he was so sweet. He told her about T-ball in the spring and I could tell it lightened her day. Or maybe it was just me being proud that he wasn't hiding behind me.

As far as communication goes with little ones...I am so excited that Maggie can tell me what she wants. I am sure in a year or so I will be wishing for a rest to her tongue. I know some ...okay most days with Parker end that way. He can ask questions that have no answer and then argue when you try your best to give him an answer that makes sense. Remind me of my pride of her vocabulary next year!

Best friends and baby Jonah

2009-01-19T20:11:00.000-08:00

If I could go back in time 3 years and whisper something in someones ear it would be to my best friend Adrienne. I would say, "On January 18, 2009 you will hold Jonah Russell and he will be perfect." My best friend has been on a roller coaster ride for three years now. One that us moms that conceived relatively easily will never understand. Sunday morning I got a call from her husband that she was being admitted. In two hours I had my kids dressed and ready for church, their spend the night bag packed, arrangements with my sister made. I packed myself picked our third b/f and we were on the road to NWA. Adrienne is a true tough nut. Sometimes I think she enjoys pain. Why else would you run three miles pregnant? I think she met her match yesterday and it was called child birth! I told her in a few days she won't even remember the pain. She said she hopes not! He is absolutely perfect! Seeing that little round backside in a sleeper with his legs pulled up makes any mom skip a heart beat. As I left the hospital today to return to my own precious babies I got really sad and couldn't say goodbye. Those of you who have a true best friend...the kind where you were inseparable spirit for a good part of your life know what I mean. I have hurt for her so bad these past few years and now that he is here it stinks to not be able to be close enough to be there. As we left, her family and those that surround her on a daily basis were coming in. I have to say I was quite envious of their time. I had only a few short hours to do those best friend duties like cleaning house and making meals. All those things she did for me even in her own pain. We have cried together over drill team/cheerleading, boys, separating for college, boys ; ), we have been each others maids of honor, we have called each other practically daily for the last fifteen years of life which made yesterday so wonderful to me. Jonah is truly blessed. He was and will be prayed for and he has a mommy that wanted him so badly. Congratulations! Love you!

It's a bird, It's a plane!

2009-01-08T09:35:00.000-08:00

I made Parker a cape for Christmas. With all the other gifts it kinda ended up in a corner somewhere but it thrilled me when he put it on yesterday to do some super hero work in the front yard. Love that kid!

Christmas rewind

2009-01-03T13:15:00.000-08:00

Christmas was so much fun this year. We had several parties and did several activities but I want to remember Christmas day.
Jer and I set our alarm for 6:30. The plan was to do Santa at our house then go to Mamaw's and Papaw's for gifts and breakfast. At ten till 6 I was wide awake. I could tell Jer was awake too. He let out an 'I'm too excited to sleep'. So we got up and got everything ready to leave after the kids opened gifts. At 6:30 we went into Parker's room. The video is priceless and if I knew how to upload it I would. He sat straight up in bed and smiled a big smile. I told him Santa came! He hopped out of bed and the squeals and excitement were just all I hoped for. The two things my sweet little boy asked for still make me smile. He asked for a violin and a trumpet. Santa brought a workbench and two wrapped gifts. (can you believe I don't have a picture of the set up?) He loved the workbench and quickly saw Maggie's toys...a precious doll I researched for weeks before settling on and a pram to push her in. I also came upon a rocking chair just like the one I had when I was little. With a little work it looks as good as new. He was so excited for her. So typical. We all went to get Maggie knowing she is my late sleeper. She quickly came around and gave a few wows! Before we set down to open,we all went outside to place baby Jesus in the manger thanking God for what Christmas is about. When we came back in he looked at the workbench and said, " I guess Santa didn't bring a violin." I pointed out the gifts and of course his violin and trumpet were there all along. After taking our time opening gifts we loaded up to Jer's mom and dad's. I always thought my mom went above and beyond when it came to gifts but Mamaw takes it to another level. I still am not sure how I feel about it. It gives her such joy...and who doesn't like to be spoiled. We opened gifts, had a wonderful breakfast, and cleaned up the rest of the morning. Jer and Maggie took a nap while Parker and I opened all the boxes. I love putting together toys. I guess my childhood love of Legos is explained. At about 3:00 we headed to Mom's. She lives in a beautiful little condo on the lake. I mean little. My sister and her two girls and husband and then my family...we were busting at the seems. I had imagined it all a little more romantic then what transpired but it turned out okay. We made steak and hash brown casserole and lots more great food. We all actually set down to eat at the same time. A Christmas miracle! Ha! We bathed the kids and settled the older ones down with a movie in bed. Jer and I, my sister and her husband and the two little ones went to a neighboring condo for the night. I bought Jer a new game he plays with the guys from work called Settlers. It is kinda like Monopoly and Risk in one. We all played till 2:30 in the morning. The four of us used to play games all the time when we had only one child each. Things got more complicated with two more kids. We had a great time. Christmas ended and we didn't even notice. This past week I have spent taking down decorations and putting away new toys. Thankfully I had spent the fall purging the kids rooms of just about all their toys. I love Christmas and can't wait till next year but I also look forward to this new year.

Preschool choir

2008-12-09T05:38:00.000-08:00

Parker started preschool choir in the fall. After seeing the ''big kids'' sing on stage at VBS it has been a dream to do the same. A few weeks back Jer was out of town so instead of dropping the kids and heading cross town to visit our youth service I chose to stay and watch choir practice. It was their first time on stage practicing for the big Christmas program. OH MY! My son let me just say really gets into it. The silliness that boy has in him is just....whoa. I thought well this is the first time they have been on stage he really had a hard time paying attention but he will calm down. Last week I went to choir practice. Yes he calmed down but if singing without silliness is a developmental mile stone....we aren't there. After every song he yelled out with arms high, "JESUS!" I guess that is fine since we are at church and all but it is not at all part of the songs. During the practice I turned to my friend who was holding back her giggles and I asked, "What am I going to do with him?" She laughed but I heard another mom say under her breath, "I know what I would do." .....I keep hearing that phrase and thinking... really? I mean I want him to take choir seriously too but he is 3. His choir teachers assures me he is fine. They are friends though so I wonder. We practiced at home with him singing correctly and he can do it. Sometimes I wonder if what I think is funny 3 year old behavior others are looking at saying discipline your child. I sure hope not. Anyway, Sunday night the choir had their first performance. It was an informal missions night in the gym. They were to sing two songs. He was definitely one of the two most enthusiastic but Parker blended fine (in my opinion) with the rest of the performance. He was so proud yelling hi to me and Jer. Sunday is the performance in front of the church. All of our family is coming to watch so it should be super exciting. I guess it is one of the fine lines we walk as mommies. How do you calm a child without taking away an enthusiasm? I just am not ready to do that. Everything Parker sees is the coolest most exciting thing ever. I don't want that to change.

If open mouths determine who is singing the loudest....can you pick Parker?

(Anna Beth was stiff competition on that one : )

A pre-performance family shot.

Christmas Tradition...year 1

2008-12-05T21:22:00.000-08:00

My hubby asked what I wanted for the outside of our house this year. I wanted a manger. So he and Parker headed to Lowe's for a man's trip. After a while he called to show me this precious manger.

We looked everywhere for an outdoor star to hang above it. This one will work.

Now on Christmas morning (before presents) we will go as a family and lay "baby Jesus" in the manger.

Oh Christmas tree!

2008-11-26T20:23:00.001-08:00

Let me just say that I take the Christmas tree very seriously. I know get over it right? Well, as I have posted before if I could decorate trees for a living my life would be complete.

When I was a little girl we had a tradition that Mom made chocolate chip cookies when we put up the tree. None of those cookies in a tube....the real thing. (the only way I make them) Isn't it funny how little luxuries like cookies aren't that exciting anymore. I mean it was a BIG deal to us. Kinda like a big deal when Mom bought Velveeta for cheese dip....anybody hearing me? HA! So I made the cookies and the tree is up ready to be decorated. We plug in the lights and.....none of them work this year. We all go to Wal-mart to be severely disappointed by the selection and head to Target. After we find what we need we head home and it is already 8:00! So I video Maggie and take a few shots of her decorating herself instead of the tree and put her to bed. She needs her beauty sleep. Parker stays up and helps me decorate....the bottom three rows of branches: ) I know growing up my tree was made up of the precious ornaments my sister and I made as children and we thought it was beautiful and it was. But, my tree is not one of those trees. I will have a tree as a centerpiece of our table to display those priceless works of art. I really am not that particular about anything else but the tree....it is my personal work of art.

Buddies

2008-11-05T12:18:00.000-08:00

I had to make note that a prayer request has been answered. Tate is doing well. One of Parker's closest buddies had open heart surgery yesterday. Scary thought for anyone but to hard to comprehend as a mom. Please keep him and his mommy and daddy in your prayers. We love this little boy and want him back to normal as soon as possible. We have memories to make! As Parker so wisely prayed..."Thank you God for Tate. Thank you God for doctors. Thank you God for Hospitals." AMEN!

Reunion, Halloween... both not as scary as they sound

2008-11-03T18:52:00.000-08:00

Two weeks ago we had our ten year high school reunion. It turned out to be a lot of fun. It is funny how similar we all were yet leading such different lives. At the park things were pretty casual. That night we all gathered downtown in a basement of a bar. It was neat atmosphere but the $120 dollar fajitas were not quite $120 worth. LOL. My two closest friends and their husbands (which kept Jer incredibly entertained) all caravaned in the Caravan. After talking with old friends till midnight we left to go to IHOP. From what I can tell our party at IHOP was a little tamer (but couldn't be less fun) than that of some of my friends from school. Jeremy and the guys were worked up to be some kind of silly. They had us laughing all night. It took me a few days to recover from being up till 2:30. I have never been good much past 11 or so.

Me and Jeremy, Adrienne and her husband Jeremy(or is forehead anyway) and Kristen and her husband Mark. Aren't we cute!

My old Jr. High drill team buddies. Shannon, Me, Amanda, and April

Halloween...

We had a great time Halloween. Instead of going to the carnival we decided to go to my sister Shelley's to trick or treat for the first time. Parker practiced with me at the front door several times before we left that day. Then I had to practice LOL. I finally finished his costume. Not that it was elaborate or anything it just takes a while when you get to work in 10 minute sessions. I bought the pirate t-shirt at Target and wanted to find some fabric to match the pirate pants to the shirt. Good luck with that! I decided to paint the stripes on. Being brilliant I first got black fabric ant tried to paint orange stripes...didn't work. Got smart. Black on orange....duh. I made the boot covers and about threw them out the door before I finished but they turned out OK. I had to let Maggie's costume out a bit....she is so stinkin cute though. Parker wore his costume the whole day before Halloween....target and the mall included. Fun times. We trick or treated in a Shell's neighborhood and Parker and Anna squealed they were so excited. As the rang the door bell they would say 'trick or treat' and when they opened the door they were silent. One of the funniest moments was when we got back and a group of older kids came to the door and Parker gave them a handful each but they just stood there wanting more I guess. Parker wanted to help them with what to do next and so he said, " Alright, go to another house now." We all cracked up.

We went to Jeremy's parents first to trick or treat. Like every year they go all out. My kid's have the best grandparents.

This is true Maggie. This tantrum is about to get ugly. I know it is bad but it makes me laugh.

Maggie really wanted Parker's glow stick. Big brother was nice enough to let her explore it.

All in all it was a lot of fun. I have such wonderful memories of Halloween as a kid. When else do you get to play dress up and show off to a bunch of strangers for candy? Sounds like fun to me!

Doesn't sound a bit like me!

2008-10-19T21:57:00.000-07:00

What do you know I am behind in my blogging. I am going to stop drawing attention to the fact with the next post! This post is basically to caption some great shots of the weekend before last. It was a whirlwind but I love those kind! Especially when I can take my kids along places that most people wouldn't dare. I have two exceptional kids I might add. They both can be silly as loons but I wouldn't trade them for a million "perfect" kids. I take my kids with me everywhere. This weekend Jordan and I attempted a crazy task! We took our kids to the most amazing wear house sale of cards, invitations, plates and all kinds of fun things. It was a mad house! The kids did great though. When Jordan found out we would have to stand in line close to 2 hours we happily said I would take the kids to McDonald's to play and she got to stand in line...I think I got the better end of that deal! Here are some pics of my fab finds! Oh wait....I was going to get up to take pictures and post them but Jordan actually borrowed my camera! You will have to wait till tomorrow!

Back to the weekend before last

Jer's Granny has breast cancer so Mom-C and I took the kids to race for the cure. We didn't race mind you...if we did we sure didn't win! I made the kids shirts to get some pictures to send to Granny in the hospital. The kids did great and the double jogging stroller was the envy of all with children! Then we went to the toy store to look a doll Santa was thinking about for Mags. I needed convincing that spending an absurd (not American girl absurd) amount of money on her first doll was okay. She is just the one to take in those situations! Since we had our race shirts on we got 20% off our total purchase! That sealed the deal for me! I had so much fun it was like being a kid again except getting to pick what you got for Christmas! Does anyone my age enjoy toy shopping as much as me....I don't think so. Now I just have to keep myself from playing with everything till Christmas!

That night I had a sleepover with my Sunday school girls. What a great group. They are truly the most fun, down to earth group I have ever spent time with. They remind me so much of my friends in high school. They talked until 2:30 AM! Then I went home to sleep in my own bed. The next day was Church of course....amazingly I wasn't exhausted. But then....came.....the.....FAIR.

Having kids gives you a reason to have fun all over again. I mean I liked the fair post marriage pre kids but now....it is just fun to watch you own kids enjoy things. In that department I am doubly blessed. I have the two most enthusiastic, MOM DID YOU SEE THAT!...kids around! After the fair I was definitely tired. I ate so much fried goodness that I am shocked to say I haven't seen it on the scale this week.

My dears in the woods

2008-10-04T19:26:00.000-07:00

Parker is officially a big boy! He went to the deer woods for the first time today with Papaw and Daddy. He was very concerned for me and tried to assure me the he would be home soon. He asked daddy if there was enough room so I could go. But I assured him deer camp was for boys only! This made his day....that and his new work boots. He was so excited to wear work boots to clean up the deer stand. He let me know that, "we aren't gonna shoot'em this time, Mommy." Ugh....not looking forward to my son (at any age) and live ammunition. I was not raised around guns or hunting so all this I must leave and trust to my dear deer hunting husband. It still scares the crud out of me. I know....boys are 'Wild At Heart'...read it moms of boys.

Tu-tu cute

2008-09-30T15:13:00.000-07:00

My sweet friend Adrienne sent me this tu-tu for Mags. I put it on her and she carries on with her busy day. Little did I know till this weekend she made it. That makes it even more special. Thanks Adrienne. Here she is as my helper making supper. Who says you are ever too big for the bumbo?

What a weekend

2008-09-30T12:15:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was what I have been looking forward to for a long time. Just my two best girls and no kiddos to drag around. We shopped and ate and ate and ate and shopped. We registered Adrienne at Target and was so impressed with all the new things that came out in the last couple of years. It seems a lot of manufacturers read my mind about the things that were wrong with their products. Adrienne was pretty laid back and basically got whatever Kristen and I recommended. FUN! I love bossing! Then we went shopping and I found a ton of stuff. Doesn't that always happen when you don't have money to spend? I found a great sweater and Banana and remembered why I love that place. It seems like I never go into real stores since kids and I am not sure why not. All in all it was a great time and I could have stayed longer if motherhood guilt didn't kick it. Ha. I love my girls! To bad we don't have any pics so I will just post the best one of us from last year.

Confession

2008-09-17T19:06:00.001-07:00

I have to start by saying how proud I have been of my Parker lately. I have seen a total transformation from a month ago. I am not saying I have figured out parenting or anything but I learned something a few weeks ago that changed both of us. I was listening online to a parenting series. I realized something I learned in my relationship with God a long time ago. This something was missing in my relationship with my son. A few years ago when money was uhh...not there I learned to truly be thankful. I started thanking God for everything I had and low and behold I was content. In my own relationship with my son God showed me that if I praise Parker and love him out loud regardless of if he screams when I get on to him I will find more to praise. It was so true. Within a week he was a different kid. All the praise all the "I love you because you are Parker.".... All the love and he gave me so much to praise. On one hand I feel horrible that it took me this long to figure it out. On the other I am so thankful he is three. It is not like I didn't praise him or tell him 100 times a day I love him before. The difference is the unconditional praise. The praise for being him.

I say all that to lead up to tonight. We had the first semi-rough day in a while. I had to spank him twice for disobeying me. I had a lot of friends and kids over for lunch and he was out of control. The third time I sent him to my room I had lost my temper. He kept saying, "Don't spank me" instead of listening to what I was saying. I put my finger close to his face and I said sternly, " I am not talking about a spanking I am talking about you being nice!" His face fell and his lip quivered and he said, " Mommy, God doesn't want you to be mean at me." I said your right and I said you stay here and I walked a way for a minute. I returned to explain I was sorry I put my finger in his face and yelled but that spanking is not mean. I explained the Bible tells mommies and daddies to discipline their children so they grow up with hearts that want to obey. During bedtime prayers tonight. I asked forgiveness for my short temper and for a better day tomorrow. Then it was Parker's turn. He said, "Dewr Gesus, Tank you for dis day. Tank you for our church....(thank you for a whole bunch of stuff)....and tomowow I pway mommy dod dint get on to me and daddy dod dint get on to me. Amen"
Although I am embarrassed at my behavior I am so proud that at the age of three he knows God requires kindness and gentleness. He may not understand that "getting on to him" is sometimes required but that's okay. Hearing him speak of God in a real way makes having to confess in front of him a learning experience for the both of us.

One year olds and bathtubs...

2008-09-17T19:06:00.000-07:00

Maggie loves to take a bath. She cries when she has to get out. I believe 'bath' was one of the first words she recognized. As a baby, just at the mention of the word she would crawl to the bathroom. Now that she is a little older she can get in by herself. Scary. It makes me laugh when I am standing there but wouldn't you know....she got in while Parker and his cousin Anna were taking their bath....in her PJ's. I had just given her and Kate a bath, lotioned them, gotten them ready for bed when I here MOMMY! Note to self....bath water is to be drained immediately! Is that picture of her getting in the tub not the cutest! (and yes I pulled up that much hair in a tiny rubber band to hold a bow)

Tagged....two weeks ago

2008-09-11T21:14:00.000-07:00

I told Adri I would do this like two weeks ago...did I mention I am behind? This will be so hard because I am so normal and all....ha

Tag, You're It!Here are the rules:Link to the person who tagged you. Mention the rules on your blog. Tell about six unspectacular quirks of yours. Tag six fellow bloggers by linking them. Leave a comment on each of the six blogger’s blogs letting them know they’ve been tagged.

1. I hate pee. Okay that is not that weird I know most people don't like it or anything but I really think it is disgusting. Pee in the toilet ugh...the really full overnight pee diaper ugh ugh.....hearing someone pee ugh ugh ugh.....

2. I have absolutely no routines...that I can think of.

3. If I could have a job decorating Christmas trees my life would be complete. LOL

4. I am not good in reverse. If you don't believe me check out the bumper and sides of my van.

5. I could live without cell phones...I did it for a long time.

6. A fun date for me is going to eat and to Sam's to look around. That has to mean that Jer and I are meant to be because who does that? (except really old people)

I wrote those in like five minutes. Adri said she had to ask her husband. What is that saying?

Crescent roll chicken

2008-09-11T21:03:00.000-07:00

This is for Adrienne. I told her this was a very common recipe and she seems to think people eat differently in NWA than they do here in LR. This is a completely unhealthy family fave.

For a quick dinner you can use can chicken...for company sake you can boil and shred 2 breasts(ha)

2 cups grated sharp chedder
2 cans crescent rolls
milk
3oz cream cheese
cream of chicken soup

1. Drain chicken and combine with softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup milk
2. fill crescent rolls with a large spoonful of cream cheese mixture and roll into crescent shape. Place them in a 9x13 dish.
3. In a seperate bowl combine soup milk and cheese. Pour over crescents and bake 350 till rolls brown slightly.
Yum!

The mother of all updates!

2008-09-11T11:59:00.000-07:00

Instead of putting when these events happened I am just going to pretend they happened yesterday and I am on top of it. The truth is I am wayyy behind in the blog world. That is because the real world has been busy and I have been crazy tired. So lets begin....

Take me out to the ball game...Okay I want to believe my child is gifted in many areas and I swear sports is one. What other three year old can sit and watch 3 entire innings straight in a row. I mean commenting, asking questions, and cheering the whole time. I was in awe. Maybe that is normal but I was impressed. Maggie loved running around and waving at everyone. My social child...not sure where she gets it.

The zoo.

We went to the zoo with my sister and her kids. This was the first time Daddy got to go. The big kids and the dads rode the train while the little ones played on the playground. Maggie was hilarious when she saw the zebras. She was just pointing and talking and loved them. I am under the impression that she is going to be into horses. Parker loved the giraffes and announced he is no longer afraid of camels.

First Day of Preschool

Hurricane Gustov put quite a damper on the first day of preschool to say the least. We were without power and Parker's teacher couldn't even get there. Needless to say there were no pictures with mommy on the first day. He loved it though! He is doing very well and I must compliment his behavior. For the past three weeks I have seen an enormous change in behavior. He has been so polite and sensitive towards others. He has obeyed and I have hardly had to discipline. I will write more about my discoveries on that later. This week in school they have talked about families and pets. I do wish that maybe school and church were in different places. It feels as though he is there allllll the time and he gets them confused. I guess there could be worse things but I would like him to know the difference.

Bunco

I hosted this months bunco. I am so glad I did because it was the catalyst for all the projects. I am proud to say I finished them all! I will post pics later but I finished! I love having parties at my house because the cleaning that goes on makes me feel so great when everything is done. We had a great time. I fixed roast with carrots onions and sweet potatoes. I made mashed potatoes green beans and rolls. I also made spicy corn dip and cobbler for dessert. The girls requested home cooking because they know I love to cook. It amazes me how so many people now days don't know how to cook.

I left out a ton of other things and just about all the details. It is finally documented now and I can go from here. Hopefully I will be up to doing more.

Am I big enough?

2008-08-28T06:16:00.000-07:00

Preschool starts next week. He will go three days a week for three hours. Yesterday we had open house to meet Parker's teacher. The night before last I was explaining we were going to meet his teacher in the morning. I asked him what he was going to say when he met her. He said, "I am going to say, I can write my name and it is nice to meet you."
Yesterday morning he was sitting in my lap. I reminded him that we were going to meet his teacher at preschool today. Still half asleep he said, "but I'm not big yet. I'm supposed to go to school when I get big." I told him he was plenty big for preschool.
As I got ready he decided he wanted to draw his new teacher a picture. A few days ago he drew the first picture that actually looked like something. (I cried) He brought it to show me and I suggested he write his name so she will know who it is from. He asked, "does my new teacher have a name?" "Yes" I said, " I just don't know it yet."
We made it to school (just around the block) and he realized he left his picture. I didn't want him to be disappointed during the important moment so I asked if we needed to go back and get it. We did. When we met his teacher he said, "this is for you." He was smiling from ear to ear. I think it is going to be a great year!

me...sewing?

2008-08-28T05:23:00.000-07:00

All my life I have watched my mom create some amazing things. Whether sewing are painting or just making things she always has a project. Since she moved I no longer count on her to get excited about my ideas and create them for me. This is a good thing I guess because it has caused me to teach myself to do some things. I never had time in high school to take a Home Eco. type class but always wanted to sew. I asked for a sewing machine at Christmas and opened it up this week. I am hosting bunko next month and all those projects I listed last month are in full swing. For some reason I do half a project and move on to the next. I am sure I will complete them all, I just get bored easily. Back to the sewing...one of my projects was curtains for my bedroom. My sweet husband bought me some bedding I loved when it was half of half with an additional 30% off at Dillards. I needed some curtains to match. Mom and I went to the fabric store because after I painted my living room my cornice board needed an update. Would you believe they had already reduced designer prints an additional 75% off?! I got this gorgeous fabric for $3 a yard. I bought enough for the cornice and then bought some for the curtains. Friday night I had no kids at home thanks to my mother in law so I spent until one in the morning reading the manual and making a panel. It was not perfect but really got me excited.

So then I thought about the cute A-line dresses on eBay that are seasonal with a monogram on the front. I really wanted Maggie to have one but couldn't afford them. My mother in law suggested I go buy a pattern and we could look at it together. Sunday night we cut it out at her house then I took it home and sewed. It was so fun. Here it the dress without the orange ribbon for the trim. I already made another one and have plans for Christmas pajamas. I love clothes and can't afford to shop so this is so exciting to me. I never thought I had enough patience to do it but I really enjoyed doing something besides TV in the evening when the kids are in bed.

Two other projects I listed are in the process of being completed. I painted the headboard I have been putting of for sometime now. It still needs moulding at the top but looks good for now. Also, I had inspiration from Cathrine on Parker's room art. Do you see a trend? Only half way done. : )

I promise to finish when I get another moment without kids. Parker starts preschool next week so maybe I can get a few things done with just Maggie. Overall it was a pretty productive week.

The discipline to discipline

2008-08-21T20:36:00.000-07:00

Wednesday Mom came to town to help me make decisions on huge issues in my life such as what color I should paint the headboard I am making. We had a great time doing what we use to do two or three times a week...just run errands together. Since Parker has recovered from the mysterious virus that has plagued so many of us he has really been testing me. I recognize at times that he requires a LOT of one on one attention. The times where he is not included in the convo and the shopping is not pleasant but this was different. He was genuinely testing me. I'm not sure why but believe me I was going to stay firm and consistent. Consistent has been my prayer this week. Consistent and patient and consistently patient. ha. I literally had to spank him three times at the mall. I didn't have a choice. I mean deliberate disobedience. I was actually calm and took him to a private area each time. I was just happy my mom was with me. Where a lot of times I feel judged about my parenting I don't at all around my mom. In fact she always reassures me I did the right thing. I guess my issue is not so much if spanking is wrong, I know the Bible clearly tells me it is a good thing. My question is am I doing it right? I remember as a child after receiving a spanking being upset for a while and staying on the DL for a while afterwords. I guess that is why it shocks me when he snaps back so quickly and retains next to none of my scolding or ....sting. Today was almost a carbon copy of yesterday. More spanking more scoldings. I also added leaving early from spending time with his cousin and best bud. That cracked him. I mean he was so upset. So I guess what I have discovered is that I will continue to spank but a strong and powerful currency to him is time with his buds. I have learned his love language is definitely quality time. (he may think it is gifts lol) Tonight he came up to me and just growled with a big smile. He knew Maggie was in bed and he knows better than to yell during that time. I had to just grab him and hug him. He needed some one on one attention...bad. We went to his room and out of anything he wanted to play he asked to put the four foot long floor puzzle together. As we put it together his enthusiasm made me so proud. Even though I spanked him and took him home early he loves me and knows I love him. What an example for me as I learn to deal with discipline from our Heavenly Father. I never knew this is what they meant when people say parenting is tough. I always thought it meant the energy draining tough. My goal tomorrow is to be consistently patient and focus on my relationship with the Lord. All things are put into perspective when I am in the right place.

sick of being sick..and a soap box

2008-08-17T21:06:00.000-07:00

Whew....It has been a long 5 days. Wednesday Parker woke with a low grade fever. Being that you have decide at dawn to take your child to the pediatrician or you can't get an appointment for that day I called and scheduled him. Sure enough a double ear infection. Fine, I thought we are not contagious and everyone is acting happy. Oh nnnnoooo. That night I get a fever too. The next day my throat is awful. My fever is up and Parker's fever is through the roof. We stay medicated and of course the next day....Maggie has a fever. I am sure it is the virus that two of our close friends have dealt with but ugh....
Sunday the kids and I stayed home from church. We didn't go to Jer's parents for dinner to spare them a virus. Parker and I remained fever free all afternoon and we both needed out of the house. Daddy suggested Cracker Barrel so I was in. Parker was so funny. The little golf tee game that is on every table has new rules. According to Parker all the tees are to be placed on the table. Then very strategically you take turns placing a tee in each hole. Daddy asked Parker, "how do you win this game?" Parker said, "I win!" Oh... so we keep putting them in till you win. Got it! It was so funny Jer kept acting as if he had a strategy. He would say things like...ohhh don't put there..awe that was where I was gonna put mine. Parker loved it. Maggie had command of the tiny creamer cups and butter cups. Until she got sick of them and threw them in the floor....along with a saucer that broke. Nice. We came home put the kids to bed and I did my weekly Sunday night grocery shopping. I love shopping alone but hate how there is never anything left.
My throat still is killing me. I would be concerned about strep if I didn't know of a few others with this virus. If it isn't better by Tuesday morning I will make an appointment. It is bad to have sick kids but it is the worse to have sick kids and be sick yourself.

A Soap Box by: Natalie
School starts tomorrow for the rest of the world. Like I said I do my shopping on Sunday nights. Would you believe that at 10:30 the night before the first day of school there are kids out at Walmart? I mean not just a couple but a bunch. If that wasn't bad enough here is an example of showing your kids how important school is. There were a few with the school supplies list! Getting their school supplies at 10:30 the night before school starts. Nothing says your ready for a new year like that! I wasn't going to mention that the mother had a 'cupids lingerie' tank top on but it did add icing to the cake. How does that kid have a chance? The sad thing is if that child has a problem at school the parents will likely be as confused as they were tonight over why there are no pencils at Walmart the night before school starts! ugh! Kristen, I almost had to say something! ha
Seriously though. It made me think. (as I judged these people...I know) I can get fired up about people not showing children being prepared for school is important. What about parents not preparing our kids to know Jesus. I strolled past with the same crippled buggy I seem to always find and thought do people get this worked up over parents not showing what a big deal God is to their children? I don't want to be a mom that has her kids out at "10:30 at night" trying to show them how powerful God is in their life. That will have no effect on their life accept to say that God is not important to me. I pray that I can show my kids that Jesus is the only way to have a joyful life. I pray that everyday we constantly talk about what God has done for us. I want them to know God is important and that it is why we go to church and read his word. Not for our glory but because God is that important. Kids will see what it important to us. It is not the stuff we say at 10:30 at night. It is the stuff we prepare for.
Note: Believe me I know school is not the most important thing in life. Our society worships school in my opinion but just for comparison sake....

Weekend update part two

2008-08-11T21:56:00.000-07:00

We also went to the cutest birthday party. It was a cowboy themed party and Aden's mom had a petting zoo. The weather was next to perfect and the kid's loved it. Parker especially loved feeding the goats and the pony....and the pinata. Maggie loved going in and out of the goat pen. She would get down really close to them and just tell them all about it. If you haven't heard Maggie "talk" you are really missing out. We have probably been to 15 birthday parties in the past couple of monthes but this one was my favorite.

The weekend update

2008-08-11T21:44:00.000-07:00

I mentioned that we made cookies for my great-grandmother's 102 birthday. She is not able to leave the nursing home anymore so Parker and Maggie and I took them to her. Parker did pretty well considering the enviroment. He was a little scared just because he hasn't been around her very much and her roommate is well....not all there. My great-grandmother still has her mind remarkably. She is blind but still remembers Shell and I vividly. She tells all the same stories about us as kids. It is kinda comforting knowing that she still remembers. I wanted to add a few pics of us. The first is my grandmother and the kids and the next is with the birthday girl. My mom told her not to have a wild party. She thought that was funny.

Mediocre... again

2008-08-11T21:30:00.000-07:00

We had bunko tonight and once again I didn't win. I always fall right in the middle. Thats okay it was really a great time and I ate till I was stuffed. I guess I felt like I deserved it since I went for a weigh in today and am down 19 pounds! Whoohoo! I don't have much to say...although....drum roll please...you can see my menu once again!

Monday
Sloppy joes and tots (yuck, I ate at bunco)
Tuesday
Chicken casserole, cheesy potatoes (Parker wanted them with sloppy joes) something green
Wednesday
This new chicken pasta thing I got...another something green
Thursday
enchaladas and rice
Friday
Payday...out!

Also...remember a few weeks ago when I listed all the projects for the house...well yeah bunco is at my house next month. You WILL be seeing progress. I hate to follow Tanya's house. It was amazing....not cookie cutter out of a magizine amazing. Warm and homey and the view... I thought I was content. I am....I love my home but wow! It was perfect for me. Still...a nice home isn't worth going back to work for. I have more than I need.

Late night...

2008-08-07T21:30:00.000-07:00

Why oh why am I still awake...I'll tell you why. I got to looking at custom clothes for little girls and I have looked wayyy to long. I can't wait for the fall now that Maggie is walking. The fall brings school and well....I am a little sad to send Parker to preschool. I mean it is 3 hours only 3 days a week. But a selfish part of me wants to keep him to myself...teach him myself. I am not saying homeschooling is selfish...I am still undecided about what we will do when real school comes. Basically it comes down to how this goes. I guess the freedom of choosing a curriculum that is best for your child is so exciting to me. As a former teacher I always felt like I was a disciplinarian and a whole bunch of other horrible stuff. Rarely did I feel like I was giving my students what I thought they needed. It was always someone else telling me what to teach and how to teach it. Parker is beside himself with excitement for school. He doesn't know that he won't eat lunch there yet and I am not excited about telling him...that was his favorite part of mother's day out. I don't care if my kids can read at four or anything like that but I just want to do all the things that I never got to do in my class. I know....just do it...I will. Preschool or not I can give them experiences and we can write about them together. I love being home! Have I said that lately? I think my thankfulness happens most this time of year when I think of that pit in my stomach dread of going back to school...as a teacher. I think I am the only teacher minded person that hated teaching! This will be my third year to watch the school year begin from home. Nothing better than to have all our favorite hang outs to ourselves during the day...chick-fil-a play land, the park, library....all free from big kids.

Oh I guess I could talk about this evening. I bought Parker a pirate hat in Daytona during beach camp...he didn't need another t-shirt from somewhere he couldn't go. Anyway, last night at Target I found a cute pirate set on clearance. It had a pirate gun (sorry if i offend) sword and bandana hat. I bought it thinking about Halloween. Parker and I played pirates today...don't you love where he kept his sword!

The most important thing we did tonight is bake cookies. My great-grandmother is turning 102 on Sunday! No one believes me but it is true. We are driving 2 1/2 hours to take her some cookies tomorrow. She will be so happy. My grandmother and my mother are only children so my sister and I are pretty important to our small family. Parker is the first boy they have been around and they think he is hilarious...he is. After I put Maggie to bed Parker and I baked 3 dozen cookies. I hope he is as enthusiastic when we take them to her as he was making them.

Big hands

2008-08-07T11:53:00.001-07:00

I often fear that I am not doing the right thing for my babies. But I want them to know I tried. I want them to know I care more about them then anything on this earth. Today has been a day I am proud of as a mommy. A day with the TV off and mommy unplugged from housework. We read book after book from the library and then played school. Parker learned to write the letter P with my help about a month ago but today he wrote them with no help or instruction. I was in awe. He is so smart. Then he wanted me to trace his hand...something they did in God's Big Backyard the other day. When he asked to trace my hand I said sure. Then he put his hand in the drawing of mine and asked me to trace it. Maggie woke up and he suggested we put Maggie's in the middle. Something about that just made my heart skip. Seeing my babies hands in mine reminded me how big I am to them. I want them to know they are safe in my hand only because of whose hand I am holding. I am so thankful to get to watch them grow. Let me not take any days for granted. Let me live each day thinking of them in my hand and my eyes on the Father. I don't have to have fear of the future if I pay attention today. I love you Lord and all the blessings in my life.

2008-08-06T06:21:00.000-07:00

okay I am going to get on the ball....really. I started this morning after reading in Exodus (those laws....I have many questions but not the time nor the place.) I started with the floors. My house was built in 1970. Somewhere along the way someone put parquae (sp?) wood floors down which I am most thankful floor. I have come to the conclusion that whatever floors people have are those they claim are hardest to clean. Well, mine are! Not really though! I have found the trick! No MOP! I hate mops for many disgusting reasons but there is no reason why you cant take 20 minutes with a rag and floor cleaner and scrub the floor. I mean get next to baseboards. As I was doing this I thought how many women have doen this in the past. I sorta had abonding moment with all my fellow homemakers of the past. Last night after reading a few blogs I enjoy I decided (once again) we are away from the home way too much. I got my binder which I have worked on a little here and there began with menu planning. When the family was on a strict budget I did this religiously. I have fallen away and plan to plan better. Once again me and the kiddos have moved into exist mode. We are always busy but never really accomplishing much. The last two weeks have been devoted to Bible School which is important but I am glad to get back to a routine. I am going to make a better effort to be home more. HOME =PRODUCTIVITY for me anyway. Thats all... oh my menu you ask....
Monday: Meatloaf, potatos, corn
Tuesday: LARRYS!
Wednesday: fish sticks pastaroni, green beans
Thursday: Chicken casserole, baked sweet potatos, green beans
Friday: Tacos, dip

the sunday funnies

2008-08-03T20:57:00.000-07:00

Parker went to his new Sunday school class today. YEA! Real Sunday school not just a floating optional person in the room. He came home saying, "we talked about Samuel and how he was a baby but grew up and him mommy made him a coat and supper. (This evening I found the little lesson sheet and sure enough it says he was a baby and grew up and his mom made him a coat. "I guess he just assumed she made him supper too.)

As we drove to Mamaw and Papas today Parker pointed out a "beanstalk." He did however inform us that there was no giant.

While making brownies he took the box and announced, "we need two eggs." How did he know? There is a picture of two eggs on the box...never noticed.

As Brett left the driveway Parker says, "Bye shuug!" (just like Mamaw does)

I love that little boy with all my heart.

Maggie....my beautiful Mags. She was promoted out of the nursery. I thought I was going to cry and would have if I wasn't in such a hurry. She did well...no crying! I just want to say she is too precious. She is walking all over the place. It will be too soon I am afraid and look forward to at the same time that she will be saying funny little things. I love that little girl with all my heart.

How do they know.

2008-07-31T12:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was cleaning up Parker's room as he lay in bed to take a nap. I was holding a little dinosaur that my father gave him the one of two times he has seen him. He looks at me and says, "Mommy, who gave me this"
Me "I don't know."
P " Yes you do."
Me "My dad"
P "Yep and he plays golf"
Me "Yes he does"
P "I wish he would come see me again"
Me "Well, he is not like your papaw. (jers dad) He doesn't come around much. My dad didn't live with me when I was a little girl."
P (sad voice ) "Oh."
The he rolled over hugging that dinosaur. I could feel myself tearing up. Does that stuff ever go away?

Bible school and Anti-August

2008-07-31T11:55:00.001-07:00

This week Parker and I have been attending bible school. He is not old enough to go to real bible school but they did create a class for the 3 year olds (and some two) that are not old enough to be in the three year old class. Anyone else have such confusing cut offs? My class has been great. All 10 year old boys but so good. I am actually glad I didn't get the girl class. They are all a little...I dont know....abnoxious? Tonight is the last night. I am glad but kinda sad too. Parker has been getting somthing out of the lessons because last night in my quiz of what snack, craft, game, story, did you have. He told me (okay Jer) that Jesus made a sick person feel better.

I am ready for fall! I am ready for days to get longer and to get back to a routine. I am ready to cook dinner again....remind me of that one in November. I am ready to be able to go to the park. Every year I want to just skip August. I think it is a pointless month. Nothing good happens in August. I am sure there is a birthday of someone I like in August but other than that....it should go away.

gimme a break

2008-07-25T18:47:00.000-07:00

No really gimme a break. Let me tell all you out there that can spend 24/7 with your kiddos and never need alone time...I am envious of you. I got some (time alone :) last night while my dear hubby took care of the babies after a long day at work so I could help more at church. Sometimes I don't feel adequate enough to be a mom. I adore my kids more than anyone but I needed a break today. Maggie is teething something awful. She has developed these sore places in the corners of her mouth from drooling so much and Parker has been complaining about a sore in his mouth that I for the life of me can not locate. VBS is an olympic sized event at our church and I have spent all week with the kiddos at church. For the most part they enjoy it but when they are done...they are done. Between the random screams....why do they do that?....and just constant whining and crying I felt like setting sail to Outrigger Island!(VBS Theme) I am noticing a negative trend here. I think this is the third post where I am stressed about the kids. Let me end with a beautiful positive and I will be conscience to air at least 5 more 'my kids are the best posts' before I have another 'woe is me.' I was about to say I need to read ANYONE who blogs with a 'woe is me,' but I don't think that would be beneficial.
Beautiful part:
I went to Mardel's the other day and bought a precious devotional for Parker. I wanted something to read at bedtime with a little substance. He loves it. He looks forward to the next night just to read from his time with God book. We do a little review from the night before and read the bible story that goes with it. I love that little boy....I pray with all my heart he knows my love and eventually a love much greater than mine. Who can fathom?

long time...little done

2008-07-23T12:43:00.000-07:00

Next week is vacation bible school. I always loved VBS as a kid and for some reason this is the first year I have volunteered to help. I must miss teaching in a tiny way because I love to decorate a classroom. Honestly that was about my favorite part of teaching....having the coolest room. Last night Parker and I went to church and left Mags with daddy. He was precious. Anything I asked him to do he said O...kay! in a very determined way. When we had done all we could do I told him we would come back in the morning. Sure enough this morning he comes running up to me as I fed Mags her breakfast. Eyes not even all the way open asking when we are going to church. His mother's day out was at church last year and his favorite part was packing a lunch to eat at 'school'. So we packed a lunch and headed to church. Seriously we were up there all morning and didn't leave till about 1:30. I hardly accomplished anything. It almost seems pointless trying projects with them but I want them to get used to being wherever... whenever. At this stage you just have to do a little at a time...all the time. I had a grateful moment as Maggie was screaming and Parker was blowing a whistle....no wait it was when they were both quietly eating lunch in the hut we made. I am so grateful to be able to do this. I am so grateful to be with them all the time. No matter how harry things get and how I am sure people were thinking why are you even trying....it is so much better being stressed about them than being stressed about someone elses kids and sad that your own kids are stressing someone else!

Discipline for dummies

2008-07-20T19:41:00.000-07:00

Okay we went to give report on missions and camp tonight at church and Parker's extended time care person from this morning, a woman I respect, informed me how hard Parker was to deal with this morn. I am so scared that he is going to not be well behaved in school. What do you do? How do you keep a three year old from not throwing tantrums when they don't get their way? I will be researching this topic after I finish this post but in the mean time I am just saying...ugh. It is embarrassing. I mean your children are an extension of you and I feel that 10 times over. Am I too tough or not tough enough. Do I expect too much or not enough? Do I show him I think he is great or does he feel like a troublemaker? I hope not. I feel like I am constantly exasperated by him...Maggie too for that matter. For a moment I felt as though we were making progress. I asked this lady if he is usually that bad. She said not as bad as today but he is difficult. I will begin to follow up better at church. I usually pick up Maggie and Jer does Parker and I don't think public behavior is as big a deal to Jer as it is me. I guess me fear is that he will be the bad kid in school. I was not the best disciplinarian as a teacher and my lack of confidence in that area haunts me. I know he is only three but I don't want to be a parent that excuses behavior because of age. He is only 3, he is only 6...... he is only 16! I want people to be honest with me. If they see me doing something or not doing something that I should do as a mom I need to know. This IS my first rodeo here. When I pray as a mom it is usually for patience and helping me know how to guide him to the cross. Maybe I need to be more specific...

Project!

2008-07-18T05:59:00.000-07:00

I admit I am not a project finisher. I start things and usually end up finishing way later than I should. I have lived in my house for almost five years and my bedroom is still not complete. I did paint and have all the artwork but I started this headboard thing literally two years ago. I saw a picture in a magazine where they took three doors side by side and applied molding at the top an along each seam to make a headboard. So far I have three doors standing behind my bed. I am making it known that my bedroom will be finished by the end of the summer. I guess having babies and no money has been the main excuses. Babies rooms are much more fun to decorate. Yea Adri! I get to do it again!
I will give myself cuddos for painting the hall and living room last month. All the trim is done and the artwork is back on the walls. It is amazing what a fresh coat of paint will do. I having bunko at my house for the first time in a couple months so it has motivated me to finish what I have started. So here is what is left to do. I will take a picture when I finish each one.
My bedroom
1. Finish the door headboard (this is a biggie)
2. Hang curtains ( I already have them...sad I know)
3. Rearrange and hang art
4. Bed on risers (storage for kids clothes and my shoes)
5. Bedding? yeah right
Parker's room
1. Clean out closet...again, I feel like I do this every two months
2. Finish Parker's wall art
Bathroom
1. Find inexpensive bathroom mats

Trombone?

2008-07-17T06:29:00.000-07:00

Parker just informed me he needs a trombone....

Parker and Maggie

2008-07-16T05:55:00.000-07:00

New and exciting developments...well they are to me. Ha!

Maggie- I swear Maggie grew a foot while I was gone. She is so tall! She took her first steps!
Isn't that about right. I stay home with her for a year and miss the first steps. I know Judy didn't want me to know but it is okay.
Last night I carried her to bed and she kept repeating, "nigh nigh, nigh nigh" So smart!
We rode bikes in the street yesterday and last night. I had a blanket and a little push car for Maggie (yeah right) I look away and there she is. She crawled to Parker's big bike in the street and had one leg straight in the air trying to mount it.

Parker- Parker developed a southern accent while I was gone. He started saying there as
they-er and where is way-er.
Just to let you know he is so smart. Yesterday he was 'writing' on his magnadoodle and said he wrote his name. I took this as the perfect opportunity to teach him the letter P. We drew circles and sticks and put them together to make a p. His first P is hanging on our fridge.
Last night Jer had to work late so I took over at bedtime. I read Go Dog Go the night before and he wanted it again. I read it and then he said he wanted to read it. He read several pages from memory. The stop light says stop and he recognized it. I was so proud. I have worked with Kindergartners who couldn't do that.

Jesus Messiah

2008-07-16T05:40:00.000-07:00

Well, I got back Friday from an amazing week in Daytona with the youth. I teach 10th grade girls and they are a great group. We got to hear Louie Giglio speak and Chris Tomlin lead worship. WOW! I actually lost my voice from singing so much. The first night Louie spoke about how big God is. If you have heard this talk before you know how amazing it is. He uses a reference in the word that says God holds the stars in his hand. He then gives all these facts about the size of stars compared to us...and that is just in our galaxy. I really was amazing and comforting at the same time. He talked about how Jesus came down. That it would have been simpler for God to make us try to come up...with actions, works, laws....but he didn't he came down. Then he spoke about finding a cause. This struck me. You know I get to convincing myself that having an average life raising my kids and such is okay and enough. I understand that I have something that others need. I am praying for my purpose. I have felt this desire come and go as I stay at home. I began teaching Sunday school again but I know I am to do more. I am also planning on memorizing more scripture. I need to hide his words in my heart that I may not sin against God. So far on the list....which will take a while is Colossians and Psalm 63. There is so much fun that I tell you about but I am going to stop right there. Maybe I will write more about it another day. I am so thankful I had the opportunity to go. So many of my friends could not have had the support to do something so full of blessing.

Motherhood And Other Contact Sports

2008-07-02T09:08:00.000-07:00

Last night we went to Ashley's for some homemade pizza and a few fireworks. Parker loved them and Maggie wasn't scared a bit. It is funny how different kids are.
Parker is in love with any kind of sport that involves a ball. Last night he continued to blow me away at how much he is able to do as a young three year old. He hits the ball when it is pitched and he has form when he shoots a basketball. I don't want to be one of those parents that thinks their kids are the best but he IS really good...and he loves it. This morning was day three of having his "jobs" he made his bed with a little less help and undressed and dressed himself...with a tiny bit of support. In the middle though he hunkers down in his tighty whities with tight fists growling "I'm a football playa" over in over again. So cute. He loves so many sports he kinda mixes them up. Example
"This is my basket ball helmet"

"Touchdown!" (after hitting his baseball)

And today at the park he said,"Let's go play on the basketball field."

We rode bikes again today at the park and it went so much smoother. This morning I chose a verse to meditate on today. After reading Philipians in my quiet time I chose Philipians 4:5. Let your gentleness be known to all. In those hot frustrating moments at the park (only a couple) I chose to be gentle....not weak but gentle. I guess sometimes I confuse giving in and gentleness. I am to be gentle but firm. We have had little to know melt downs. He has pushed but I gently and firmly pushed back. When we came home he whined "I'm thirsty."
"Ask me without whining and I will get you something"

"Get me something to drink." This is where he was pushing it. He knows one of my buttons is asking nicely and not just a please at the end of a command.
I looked at him with raised I brows where normally I would have said, "excuse me?" He pouted and layed his head on the couch.

"Ask the right way and I would be happy to help you" I left it at that and went to reboot the laundry. He thought about for a few minutes and came back with a cheerful, "would you get me something to drink please?"

The stress I was feeling about his behavior looks a little better today. My attitude is a huge part of it. I know it is one day better but hopefully we are both learning.

Patiently waiting on patience

2008-06-30T19:45:00.000-07:00

Today was going to be different. Better. I was not going to get frustrated when Parker cried. I really wasn't. It is not that he does it after one disappointment...but after everyone.
Ash and I took the boys with their trikes to the park. They both recently learned to peddle well and we thought it would be fun to ride the trails a bit. It was fine in the beginning but then Parker decided he wanted to ride Tate's trike. Parker's is much easier to ride with heavy rubber tires and a seat with a back. Tate being the black and white kinda guy he is just didn't see the need in that and flat out said no. "WAAA!!! But I want too!"
I quickly let him know that was not acceptable but that just sends him further over they edge. I told him to get back on his trike and lets go. He kept crying so I PUT him on his trike.
"I don't want to ride it!" I probably had a little angst in my voice and said "Let's go"
"No!" So then I swiftly removed him and spanked him. I can not tolerate a blatant disobedience. It just doesn't stop though. He whined he cried all through out the day. What's a mom to do about constant whining. I am at a constant battle of the mind. I am not afraid to spank don't get me wrong. I believe in it. It is what the bible teaches but, how do you discipline whining and crying. Do you consider them tantrums that they can turn on and off and are being defiant when they don't stop. Or is it something you ignore and hope it goes away (before all your friends stop wanting us for play dates). The bible says ''a child left to his own will cause a mother shame. '' That is why I find it hard to ignore. My frustration gets the better of me and sometimes makes it worse. I guess that is my time to whine. Pray that I will be more patient tomorrow. "Remain in me and I will remain in you" That's what HE said before listing the fruits of the spirit. Its the remaining part that is hard for me. I only get this chance once and don't want to mess up. Time is flying by and I just want to do the right thing.

Stay at home mom in training

2008-06-28T06:50:00.000-07:00

I have often felt as if I do not do my job correctly but never really could figure out why. I am on a mission to do this job that God gave me as the true desire of my heart. I want a clean happy home. I want to spend my husbands hard earned money in a way that honors his work and God's genorosity. I want a home that radiates Gods love and warmth. I have visited a few sites from different mom's and keep going back to the super traditional, meek christian moms. Can a girl that is definately not naturaly meek and mild become that? I know...it is possible through constant surrender. I don't want to "lose it" again with my kids. It has become somewhat acceptable in my circle as we claim "real life." I felt strong conviction the other day when I really lost it over ANOTHER melt down from my three year old. (i wonder where he gets it) I don't care about stuff and political correctness even though I was raised to have my feet in that deceptive water. Where to begin? Maybe this is the direction I need to take....learning to be a stay at home mom. I didn't have that model so I am realizing after two years I don't know what I am doing. Pray for me and send any wisdom my way.

Why and Other Three Year Old Questions

2008-06-26T08:16:00.000-07:00

Parker has always asked lots of questions, but he is beginning to take it to a new level. He asks why after EVERYTHING I say. For example, when I tell him to get in his car seat. He will ask 'why?'. Instead I want him to say 'yes mam'. He can tell me what he should have said but getting a yes mam first when I tell him to do something is not happening. His why questions don't always make since to me either. Last night as we drove home from Mom's he asked, "why is this road here?" Or while playing with blocks, "why is this block red?'' Or doing a puzzle, "That piece doesn't go there." He answers you guessed it "why?" I know what your thinking... all those questions have simple answers. The road...so we can get home. The blocks....in case you want to build something red. But I try that and after my explanation it is still the same. WHY? I try my best to answer all his questions but sometimes it is just exhausting. Last night when I had answered my last question I asked him if he wanted to sleep in my bed since Jer is still in Mexico. "Sure!" he said. We lay down and I am on my side facing him. In the pitch black I can't see him but I feel five sweet fingers find my hand by my face. He doesn't say a word, not even a question. He just holds my hand until I know he is asleep. I bet I will be up to more questions today.

Mexico and Hot Springs

2008-06-22T10:41:00.000-07:00

Well Jer is off to tell Dora about Jesus! We were blessed with a paid for trip for just the two of us this year so we decided to go with our youth on their summer trips. Jer went on the Mission trip and I am going to camp. (in Daytona....suffering for the Lord) He called and sounded as excited as he gets. They drove for two days straight and arrived at 2:30 AM. ugh.
The kids and I have been spending the week with Mom. It has been wonderful. Her little place is so nice and the view is beautiful. Parker has been riding his sweet tricycle around and Maggie and I follow in the stroller. Normally I hate to be hot in the summer but on the lake it is just different. We swim for a few hours each day and make up games in the pool like I did as a kid. Maggie is a brown biscuit as my mother says. She is sooo dark...it is so cute. Parker has some strange tan lines himself with a life jacket and floaties. He won't get in the pool without them but if he has them he will do just about anything. Mom hasn't had her satellite hooked up yet so we have watched some movies on her imac. (i think that's what its called) Tonight after a dinner I gave the kids a bath. Then we danced to Mom's soul music. Parker couldn't breathe he was laughing so hard. He gets this dance face and shrugs his shoulders. He is in a stage lately where everything I say he asks why afterwards. It drives me batty! We have been practicing if I tell him something to do instead of saying why he says yes mam. He get confused with his script though cause I'll tell him something to do and then I'll ask, "What do you say?" He'll say, I'm sorry or please. Mom bought him a puzzle to do and after every correct piece he claps and cheers....its a 60 piece puzzle....lots of cheering. Maggie has entered the finicky eating stage. She loved vegis at first and now she won't touch them. I am so upset. I am so torn on how to handle their eating. I want to give them a balanced meal but three times a day is a lot of work. I don't want to just fix what they will eat but yet I don't want to be a short order cook either. When I figure all the answers to my questions I'll let you know.

Much is given

2008-06-20T06:23:00.000-07:00

Today I woke up a blogger. I did a quick check of Amy's page to kinda see what she does each day. Parker is watching Little Einsteins and Mags is still asleep. She talked about something near and dear...frugal grocery shopping. I have been staying home two years now and the first year and a half were tight...very tight. Like snag a roll of Mom's toilet paper before going home tight. Like qualified for WIC. Glory to God we survived and always had more than enough. Already I am thankful for that time...and in a weird way kinda miss it. (not too much) But it made everything a mission. I remember thinking how much money we wasted while I was working if I could feed our family for about $60 a week. My friends all joked about it and asking how we did it. I need to get back to that mentality and be a better steward. .."To whom much is given much is expected." Well I will give some of those ideas later but back to this morning. Parker came to me and said Im hungry. I bought a single serve pancake mix this week and fresh blueberries (I am constantly trying to find SOMETHING healthy this kid will eat) Together we made pancakes. I couldn't find my camera till they were eaten. I'm not convinced he loved them without syrup but since we did it together he was his usual enthusiastic self saying "mmm...thats good" with a not to convincing look. I think they needed a little sugar or something. Maggie is awake so here is a pic and I will see you later!
Nat

My first post

2008-06-19T21:10:00.000-07:00

I feel like I have should have something big to say here but I guess I can just introduce The Cole's...est. 2002

My husband... Jer as I like to call him. Could be short for Jerome (all HSU alumni) or Jeremy for any others. We are more alike than we would like to admit...except he is such a boy. He is in a job God faithfully gave him to support us so I could stay home. He is great at what he does and sometimes even likes it. He is my leader and constant support. He NEVER makes me feel bad about myself in anyway. My favorite thing about him besides his broad shoulders and barrel chest is he truly loves God and wants the best for his family.

Parker...Where to begin. He is my snaggle tooth three year old. Yes, he is already missing a tooth from a run in with the hardwood floor. He loves puzzles and pizza. Just recently realized he loves to swim. He would live outside if I would let him and play 'baseball team' all day. He is the "thrower" (not pitcher). My favorite thing about him besides the freckles on his nose and his tiny tush is his enthusiasm. He makes everything exciting.

Maggie....My Maggie. She is my kissable 1 year old. I can't help but want to eat her alive. She has been loud since the day she was born. In fact the nurse wouldn't let her stay in the nursury the night after she was born...too loud! I always wanted to be meek and gentle but never was. Doesnt look like Mags will be either! She is full of smiles and wants to talk so badly. She is independent...likes to eat by herself and even play by herself....nothing like Parker. Her expressions just make me smile. More often now she lays her head on my chest and my heart aches. My favorite thing about her besides her beautiful eyes and rubber band thighs is her love for me.

Me...I am a constant work. I want so bad to have it all together but then I wouldn't need Gods help so here I am. I try to be positive but.....you know. I try to be patient but....you know. I try to be quiet but....you know. I try to be neat and tidy and thin and prompt and kind and thoughtful but....you know. I hope to truly find out more about me. Here are some concrete things about me. I drive a mini van. Love it. I used to teach school. Didn't love it. I love spaghetti and laying out by any body of water with a good book. I like long baths and sad to say TV. I love getting Maggie out of her crib in the morning and Parker's spider long legs and arms wrapped around me tight. I love going on old people dates to Sam's with my hubby and talking bout our blessings over dinner somewhere alone. I love my stay at home mom friends in our below average housing neighborhood. I love calling around in the morning to see what the plan for the kids will be that day. I love dove chocolate and knowing I will get it on every holiday from Jer even though he knows I shouldn't;t. I love milk shakes from Chick fil A and watching shows about flipping houses every Saturday night with Jer. I love bows to match all Maggie's outfits and how she can put her legs in a perfect V in her car seat. I love when Parker goes on and on listing things out loud...so funny. Most of all I love my faithful God. Where I would have given up on me long ago God continues to bless me. I must give him all the glory for all I have in my life. I am so thankful and know that without his grace I would not be living the life I have.