our blessed life

New Blog

2010-02-10T12:25:00.002-05:00

New blog...

Grace is now four

2010-02-09T20:45:00.003-05:00

I can't believe I now have a four year old. Grace turned four and is just as precious as she was at age one. I still pick her up and love on her and snuggle her on the sofa. She is in love with both mommy and daddy equally. You never know which one she will want each night. She always wants to know what is going on. At night she ask where we are going the next day and who is coming over. AND, she will hold you to your word. She is still shy around new or unfamiliar people. But at home she is talkie and alive. I often wonder what personality they see at school. Grace is still loving school and we couldn't be more blessed with the teachers she has this year. She has learned SO much this year and continues to be a little sponge. She surprises me with everything she retains. For example she has been taught at school what an author and illustrator are and she can tell you. Never thought a three year old class would be learning that. Gracie loves to write! We had fun this past week making her valentine cards. She wrote all her classmates names and her own name on each, and of course added stickers. Grace can identify all her letters and the sounds must of them make. She can tell you her full name, the month of her birthday and her home address. She knows the pledge to the allegiance and loves singing songs when she is in the mood. She loves to cut out objects and takes great care coloring within the lines. Grace is a wonderful big sister and I can't wait to see how she is with the baby coming this summer. She does have moments that she is irritated, annoyed, mad and we are still working on how to control emotions. She likes to be in control around her sister and friends. I can see her being a great leader one day...not sure if all her friends enjoy it right now. :) Gracie has become a great helper at home cooking, doing laundry, helping Olivia get dressed, carrying in groceries, vacuuming, etc. But as must normal kids...she HATES cleaning her own room. She is such a sweetie to me, closing my door, asking me if I am ok, giving hugs and kisses all day and tries to make me smile if I am having a bad day. I just love this little girl to death!

I took Grace to the doctor yesterday for her four year check up. She weighed in at exactly 35 pounds and was 41 1/2 inches tall. It puts her in the 50% for weight and 90% for height. She continues to show is is going to be tall. She had her finger pricked and did awesome, had a hearing test, vision test and four shots. Being the shy girl she is, she did not do well answering the shapes for the vision test, so we will make an appointment in the next few months to the eye doctor. And because of her large tonsils and ear infections at a late age we will be going tomorrow to get x-rays of her anodes. But other then that she did awesome and looked good. She did get scared when the shots came and she even tried to hide her legs. But after the initial shock she only cried for about two minutes and hasn't complained since!

One Day

2010-02-04T07:32:00.003-05:00

Grace has become such a talker. She ask tons of questions and will talk your ear off. I love it. She makes me laugh all the time. Last week she told me when she gets big she is going to to get married. So of course I asked who she was going to marry. I waited in anticipation for her answer thinking of all the sweet boys from church. As confident as she could she announced she was going to marry Jesus.

Then at dinner a few weeks later she told me she needed to tell me something. She then recited her bible verse from church with hand motions! "Love God with all your heart" Matthew 22:37. So proud.

She has now also learned her home address. I will have to record it b/c it is one of the cutest things. Although it probably wouldn't be good to put on the web :).

First picture

2010-02-02T12:07:00.002-05:00

Fist picture of baby #3! This was taken three weeks ago at nine weeks! I am now at 12! Ending the 1st trimester!!!

Candy Birthday Party

2010-01-30T21:13:00.009-05:00

Today we celebrated Grace's 4th birthday by having a Candy Shop Party! This by far was my favorite theme. Grace loves candy so she was on board from the beginning. I had so much fun planning and watching Grace get excited as the time got closer and as she saw me buy things for it.

Daddy did an awesome job making her a sign!

I was so excited to find the outfit Grace had on at Target. It matched the colors we were using!

The wreathe hung on the front door

The give aways (other then the candy)

The candy table

We had fun finding candy in the colors of pink, blue and white.

The invitation

Thank you to Courtney who gave me SO many great ideas for our party and even gave us some candy to decorate!

Banner I made with my new Cricut!

A little activity to keep hands busy

Grace is waiting for her friends to arrive. She was truly excited and told me she was going to hug each one when they got there.

Buying Candy

My little candy helper!

Miller

Abby

Cory

Olivia (she loved hanging with big kids today)

Maddox

Keaton

Erin and Grace

Grace and Peyton

Jennifer and Cory

Maw Maw and Olivia

Happy Birthday to you.....

Present time. Grace was so excited about her presents and told each person thank you before she even opened the presents.

Silly Matthew

Half of the crew

Sweet Danica playing in Olivia's crib

Grace's Birthday

2010-01-28T10:09:00.007-05:00

Can you believe Grace is FOUR years old? My how time has flown by.

Grace was SO excited about this birthday. She have been talking about it for months! I am pretty sure Gracie had a special day! She woke up to a balloon, a birthday t-shirt, doughnuts and chocolate milk.
Maw Maw and Paw Paw came and got her for a birthday date. They went to Chick-fil-a for lunch and then to see a movie, Alvin and the Chipmunks 2.
And what date is complete without four pink roses from Paw Paw!
Then daddy came home from work with a real fish. Grace named her bubbles.
Then Heather and Drew came over and we all went out for Grace's birthday dinner. Per her request we went to eat "white dip", Mexican. Then came home for presents and cake.

Then on Wednesday Grace was the special girl at school. I came up after lunch and helped celebrate with cupcakes. Look how sweet she is in this first picture as everyone is singing to her.

She even got a present from Ms. Joni and Ms. Tina.

Almost the whole class.
Bailey, Grace and Hailey
Grace and Erin

Looking forward to August

2010-01-24T21:41:00.002-05:00

Guess what Grace...You are going to be a big sister again!!!

These are the shirts we put on the girls on Friday night right after we gave them the big news. Mommy has a baby in her belly.

Grace seems excited and daily is asking more and more questions about it. She has even started kissing my belly. It really is a fun stage to be pregnant with her.

Where is it going to sleep?

Is it going to be a boy or girl?

Is it coming today?

Where is Olivia going to sleep?

How did the baby get in your belly?

And Olivia...well she is a little confused but give her a break, she is not even two.

I believe they will both be GREAT big sister and Grace will be a great role model to Olivia.

So what everyone wants to know...Yes and No, we were planning it. Chad and I both liked the idea of a third but was letting God help make that decision. So it was a little bit of a surprise. I took a PT the day after Christmas and went to the doctor two weeks ago. We have had our first ultrasound and heard the heartbeat twice. Everything looks good and I am feeling good. I am right at 11 weeks.

We told both grandparents on Friday night by letting Grace call and tell them on the phone. She told both sets that mommy had a baby in her belly. Too cute!

Snow Day

2010-01-08T13:00:00.003-05:00

One more reason to love living in Georgia! You receive 1/4 inch of snow and the schools close down. Luckily Grace and Olivia didn't know how good it could of been. They both woke up excited about the snow, especially Grace. She woke asking to go outside to make a snow angel. There seriously was not enough snow to make a snowball but luckily enough to make that snow angel. It was COLD! Like 18 degrees but felt like less with the wind chill. But we bundled up in several layers of clothes and went outside before nine o'clock. The girls loved it!

Olivia tried making an angel. She couldn't get her arms going.

She kept trying to pick up snow.

But because of all her layers would end up on her belly.

Happy girls!

If this was a video you would hear and see the girls marching around the yard making tracks in the snow and singing a song they made up about the snow.

They are racing!

Breakfast when we came back inside...hot chocolate and marshmallows.

Then a HOT bubble bath!

I love snow days.

Looking back on 2009

2010-01-02T18:25:00.004-05:00

January - This month was a big month! My dad retired from Chick-fli-a. A place that we called family growing up. It was a bitter sweet day. And God's timing could not of been better. He knows what He is doing. February - My sweet girl Olivia turned one! We celebrated with family and friends with a cupcake birthday party. This year has been SO much fun with her. I think the toddler stage is one of my favorite. So much happens those first two years.
March - Grace started playing soccer. It was a mommy and me class and I am not sure who was more proud...Grace or daddy. She did really well at the beginning of the class, following directions and playing with mommy or daddy. But by the end of the eight weeks when they were having little games, she quit, she did not like the competition. In September of this year she started ballet. I love the fact that she is able to explore different activities this young.
April - We were visited with special guest this month, Chad's brother and soon to be wife and stepson. It was so great meeting Niki and Anthony and to find out a few months later that they were part of our family. We couldn't of been happier for Ryan. And I might add that I gained a great sister in law! I also enjoyed watching how each of them interacted with my girls.
May - Mother's Day was special to me this year just to be able to hang out with just my little family. They mean the world to me and I couldn't be in a happier place then with the all of them. This picture below was a Grayson Park and you can just see how happy everybody was that day!
June - Our annual beach trip was again fantastic! I am so lucky to have such great parents who give us this trip. The only thing missing with Chad. This year had it's highs and lows as Chad lost his job in February and then found a new job in April...a great new job. When God closes one door He opens another. His plans are always the best.
July - Chad and I celebrated eleven years together! He is truly the man on my dreams and I am so glad I have this life to spend with him.
August - We were able to be with family in August to celebrate Tyler's first birthday. It is amazing to me to be able to share with my sister the journey of motherhood with our two kids. They both are only a few months apart and even though their is a difference between little girls and little boys our common goal is the same.
September - Grace started her second year of preschool. I am completely in love with her teachers and her school. Grace does so well there and looks forward to the three days she gets to go. I can't wait to send Olivia this September.
October - Grace was in a beautiful wedding. It made a mama proud to be asked for her child to be in it. She did absolutely amazing and she couldn't of been in a more perfect wedding. Heather and Drew have becomes one of our best friends and my girl's favorite people. So glad God put them in our life's.
November - Thanksgiving was a little different this year. Because of my mom's health we were not able to get together with family this year. BUT it was amazing to see our church family stepped in. We had a great time with friends and saw just how important God's family is to us.
December - The end of the year was amazing to me. Christmas was AWESOME! But the best part of this month was seeing my mom enjoy Christmas after several weeks of feeling really bad. The picture below is at Grace's preschool program and we weren't sure my parents would be there. I am so glad they were.

I know God has some amazing things in store for our family in the year 2010. I can't wait for it all to unfold and to see how He uses each one of us. My prayer is for us to be happy, healthy and to open to His plans. I also prayer that God lays His hand on my mom and the doctors to find out what is going on with her and to heal her.

Build a Bear

2010-01-02T18:10:00.003-05:00

Chad and I took the girls to Build a Bear for a special trip a few days after Christmas. It's the first time either one of them have been. Grace really got into it and Olivia was Grace's little copy cat so she enjoyed also. Grace picked out a pink bear, picked out clothes and named it all on her own. Olivia picked a monkey and Grace named it for her.

Olivia and her monkey, Starry

Grace and Zoe

She has slept with her every night since.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-31T18:41:00.006-05:00

We had an amazing Christmas! It was our first family Christmas on our own. We spent Christmas Eve at church and then came home to read the Christmas story, eat dinner and open one gift. After the girls were asleep Santa's elves went to work to get all the gifts ready. Mommy and daddy were both up before the Grace and Olivia on Christmas morning. We woke them up a little after eight. The girls were all excited with squeals and giggles. Grace's gifts from Santa that she asked for were an easel with paint and roller skates. Olivia got a baby doll swing and a crayon desk that sings. They both got lots more great gifts from friends and family.

Grace asleep in her bed on Christmas Eve night

Christmas Morning

This year we let Grace go to the dollar tree and buy gifts for mommy, daddy, Olivia, Copa, Maw Maw and Paw Paw all on her own. It was very interesting to see what she chose for each person. She was SO excited about buying wrapping and giving her gifts. You can see how proud she is in the picture below as daddy is thanking her for his notepad and highlighters.

Mommy got a figurine doll

Olivia got a pink flashlight

Copa got dog treats

Maw Maw got a spatula

Paw Paw got a flashlight

Olivia got several babies this Christmas. They were each a BIG hit!

This girl was in heaven on Christmas morning. Below she is was a bag (a sleeping bag) and candy.

Copa enjoying her Christmas presents.

Grace in her apron, panties and high heels.

And Santa's big surprise was a trampoline!!!

It was so cute, we had a big red bow in the middle of the den on Christmas morning. Grace nor Olivia ever noticed it. So we finally asked Grace to check outside to see if the reindeer ate the special food we left them. She looked outside and told us the food was still there then she said, "There is a jumpy, Mommy come look, there is a jumpy, Santa left a jumpy!!!". So cute!

And I promise Chad is excited about it.

Christmas evening was spent at the lake at Maw Maw and Paw Paw's. Great time eating Waffle House (the chicken my mom cooked was gross, something was wrong with it so we order Waffle House to go...memories). Hanging out with each other and opening gifts. The sunset was beautiful that night.

All four grand kids

Maw Maw with the girls

My sister and I

And attempt to take a picture with my girls

My sister, my mom and I

Activities up til Christmas

2009-12-30T20:49:00.006-05:00

This year we made another gingerbread house with the girls. Grace was really into it this year. We also decided as soon as we got done making it that we would let the girls eat it...Olivia's favorite part.

We walked around down town Lawrenceville one afternoon.

We went to South Carolina the weekend before Christmas. The first picture is after Katie's birthday party. The kids were tired. Laying on Chad's lap watching a movie.

Grace's last day of school was spent in Christmas celebration. Mommy was able to go up and party without any other kids. It was fun just hanging out with Grace.

The Faces of Olivia

2009-12-16T16:15:00.001-05:00

Christmas Program

2009-12-15T08:26:00.002-05:00

Last night was Grace's Christmas program at school. We weren't sure what to expect from Grace...last year she just stood on stage. But this year she shined. She sand every word of every song and was SO proud of herself. I don't have any great pictures of her on stage but you can see from the picture below how into it she was.

Olivia was a mess! She kept pointing to the stage and saying "me". They better watch out for next year, she might take over the stage.

She did not stay still the whole night and was showing off to anyone who would watch.

Grace had "all her people" there to watch. (those were Grace's words)

I hadn't asked Heather and Drew to come b/c I didn't want to bore them with our night, but Grace woke up yesterday requesting for them to come see her sing. In fact, when I picked her up from school yesterday she asked me if I had called Heather. I am so thankful for these two people, to come watch a preschool program just to support and make my little girl happy!

This little girl loves her Paw Paw!!!

Mystery Readers

2009-12-14T07:50:00.002-05:00

Maw Maw and Paw Paw were the mystery readers for Grace's class on Friday! A mystery reader is someone who comes in and surprises the kids and reads two books with them. Every Friday Grace comes home and tells me who the mystery reader was and how bad she wants me to be it. But what a surprise for her to find her Maw Maw and Paw Paw in her classroom!!! She beamed about it for hours that afternoon. And I heard all the kids were super excited because they all got Chick-fli-a cows!!!

Look what Santa brought Gracie...

2009-12-09T07:33:00.003-05:00

Her first shiner!

She is quite proud of it.

The counter top she hit her face on. As she ran, leaped, skipped across the room.

Random

2009-12-08T12:53:00.002-05:00

Love December. Love hanging out with the family. Love putting up outside lights. Love Christmas trees. Love Christmas clothes. Love shopping. Love the birth of our Savior.

Santa

2009-12-05T15:43:00.002-05:00

Today we saw went to Photos with Santa at our church. It went over much better then I thought. This is the first year Grace made contact with him. She did not want to sit on his lap but she help his hand and smiled at him. Olivia was very apprehensive. She did not want to get close to him but at least there were no tears! Afterwards the girls decorated cookies. We missed daddy, he was at a soccer tournament.

Amanda and Grace.

Grace loves this girl. As soon as we walked in I lost Grace, after looking around I found her in Amanda's arms. So sweet.

Olivia at 21 months

2009-12-04T12:00:00.004-05:00

Olivia is now 21 months old. She is still such a crazy girl and makes me laugh all the time. I have a very hard time disciplining her because her facial expressions when she tells us "no" or "stop" makes me laugh. She is full of words now but still a lot that only a mama would know. She tries to imitate everything Grace does to a tee. She loves trying to sing now and LOVES dancing to a good beat. She still has an attachment to her paci and is still sleeping in a crib. One day I would love to move her into a big girl bed in Gracie's room. She still goes down to bed easy and takes a good three hour nap a day. Olivia has become a picky eater. Vegetables gets spit out of the mouth but she can eat her weight in fruit. Loves mommy's diet coke, we have to hide cans from her. We call her the queen of "I want some" but you have to say it has one word. Anytime anybody has anything thing she says "I want some" over and over again until she gets it or has a melt down. Her favorite thing to play with is baby dolls. She also loves any type bags and playing with Grace. She is still a mama's girl and would sit on my lap or hip all day if she could. I hear "hold me" over twenty times a day. She is my sweet girl and we are loving every minute with her!

Milk and Cookies

2009-12-03T14:26:00.003-05:00

Is their anything sweeter?

2009-12-02T07:14:00.005-05:00

Is their anything sweeter then a sleeping child? I didn't think their was until Grace said the sweetest pray tonight. And I will tell you the truth...we try really hard to say prayers with her every night but sometimes we forget, other times she refuses to cooperate, a lot of nights she ask Chad or I to say it but tonight went like this. "Dear God...Thank you for Mama, Daddy, Grace, Copa, and Olivia. Thanks for being in our hearts and making us happy. Amen" Couldn't say it much better. Just need to work on thanking Him for her sister before the dog. :)

Thank You

2009-11-30T17:03:00.003-05:00

Thank you for the fun Christmas Pajamas! We love you and miss you!

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T21:23:00.003-05:00

Even though it was sad not being with family today we did have a great time with church family. Four family households from The Orchard came together to share food and fellowship. Today I am thankful for having a family to miss, a good report of my mom's tooth surgery, an outstanding husband, two wonderful beautiful kids and friends that bless me. God has given so much.

The Girls

Grace (3), Kaylin (3), Analiese (3) and Olivia (1)

The Yummy FEAST

The Rock Band

Little Princess

2009-11-23T21:04:00.003-05:00

Today was Grace's Thanksgiving feast at her preschool. Mommy, daddy, Olivia and Heather met up to enjoy a turkey dinner. Grace was dressed as a cute little Indian named "Little Princess". Great morning!

Operation Christmas Child

2009-11-23T20:53:00.002-05:00

I am one proud mama of a three year old. I explained the best I could to three year old about Operation Christmas Child. (Fixing a Christmas box for a child overseas) Grace automatically wanted to fill the box and was completely willing to give away her own items...including her toothbrush. But on Saturday I took her to The Dollar Tree where she was able to find stuff for a little boy and girl. She was sweet picking out just the perfect items for each gender. The first picture is of Grace after our shopping trip and the bottom is of the finished box.

Turkey Shot

2009-11-23T20:47:00.004-05:00

On Saturday we went to a Turkey Shot in Monroe to support Trevor and the Explorer program. What a great adrenaline high to shot a gun :). We thought the girls might be scared of the noise of the guns but it didn't seem to phase them.

So Cute

2009-11-11T09:51:00.002-05:00

Olivia's 1st Hair Cut

2009-11-10T20:50:00.002-05:00

We took Olivia on Saturday for her first hair cut. At first she was a little apprehensive about sitting in the chair but with the bribing of candy she sat. She was so good and went from being my baby to my toddler in just a few short minutes.

They needed Olivia to look down to get the back of her hair cut. Chad was such a good daddy and had her entertained from down below.

The before shot

The After

Have you seen Olivia?

2009-11-04T19:58:00.002-05:00

Yes, Olivia is missing her pajama shirt. And yes, she is hiding from me so I can't put it on her. I love it! This girl has so much character!

Halloween 2009

2009-11-01T18:37:00.008-05:00

We had a great Halloween this year despite the rain. We had our first trick or treat party. We had great company and I had a great time preparing all the fun Halloween food. The kids got some great candy and we were able to get out in between rain storms. Grace was a rock star after her favorite Disney character Hannah Montana and Olivia was a frog. I had thought about dressing Olivia as something different b/c I couldn't find a green shirt or pants to go underneath her outfit but she was in love with the frog costume! They both enjoyed trick or treating. Grace had a great time hanging out with Heather and went to all the doors on her own (other then the scary house). When it started raining she asked to go home, which surprised me a little (and then found out later that night that she had an ear infection which explained why she wanted to go home). Olivia wanted to be a big kid SO bad. She walked on her own but would slow down the group so we put her in the wagon or I held her 50% of the time. She caught on to getting candy door to door right away. In fact, we caught her eating candy in between houses. What a GREAT evening we had. It is a true blessing to enjoy holidays with kids!

Grace helping decorate and get ready for friends. She put out all the spiders.

My famous rock star!

Sing it girl!!!

My little froggie.

Drew and Heather

Maddy

Abby

Lizzy

Cory

Jordan

Hunter

Olivia and Danica

Mary Ellen and myself

Jennifer

Heather and Grace

Trick or Treat

Pumpkin Carving Party

2009-11-01T13:05:00.004-05:00

Yesterday we went to the Third Annual Pumpkin Carving Party at The Rothschild house. We had a blast like always. And Chad did an awesome job with our pumpkin.

Joe with his pin head pumpkin

Sweet Kaylin

Alissa and Farra

Yummy food

Our cute pumpkin

Group shot

The party wore her out!

Halloween party at school

2009-11-01T12:55:00.003-05:00

On Friday Grace had her Halloween party at school. They took pictures, trick or treated around the church and then had some yummy food. Daddy, Olivia and I enjoyed seeing everyone dressed up.

Some goody bags Grace and I made for her class. I was so proud of her for writing her name on all the tags all by herself.

Pumpkin Patch at GUMP

2009-10-29T07:35:00.007-04:00

Yesterday Grace had her Pumpkin Patch Day at school. Mommy and Olivia came to spend the day with her class. It was a full fun morning!

Class picture

Hay Ride

Olivia was a mess. She tried to be one of the big kids all day.

Face Painting

Grace with Delaney

This is what Grace was most excited about, the pony rides. She talked about it for a few days.

Petting Farm

Games

Grace and Erin

Grace and Olivia

Picking out a pumpkin

Class picture with pumpkins

With class scarecrow. The kid were so over pictures at this point.

Grace with Ms. Joni. Grace is absolutely in love with school and her teachers this year. Yesterday when all the events were over Grace did not want to come with me, she wanted to stay with Ms. Joni. That makes my heart happy and sad all at the same time.

Family Pictures

2009-10-29T07:21:00.002-04:00

On Saturday we had family pictures taken by Sharma. Below is a sneak peak of what she got. It was one of the most laid back photo sessions. I can't wait to see all she got. Check out her blog for a few more pictures.

Fall Fun

2009-10-28T14:27:00.003-04:00

Orange and Black day at school

Fall festivals at The Avenue. Pony rides, crafts, games, music and more. Grace loved it even though she had a meltdown at the end.

Olivia's first pony ride. She was really excited to ride the pony in line but once we sat on there she was not too sure. She had the death grip.

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-17T21:49:00.009-04:00

Today we went to Burt's Pumpkin Patch. For a split second we thought about not going because of the cold rainy morning but Gracie would not consider waiting one more day! It was cold but it the rain held off for us. We had a great time walking and looking at all the pumpkins. Each one of us picked one pumpkin o bring home. What an AWESOME day!

I had taken their coats off to take some pictures but after Olivia started shivering I decided just to leave the coats on.

The pumpkin Grace picked out!

You can barely see it in the picture below, but Olivia is clapping for the pumpkin she picked out. She was mighty proud.

What's wrong Livi, Daddy won't buy you the $58 pumpkin?

Sweet Kisses

Pumpkin Time

2009-10-16T22:07:00.003-04:00

Grace knows that Halloween is coming soon but can't quit figure it all out. She keeps asking if it is "pumpkin time" yet. We plan to go to the pumpkin patch in a few days and she has a fall party coming up at her school soon. But because of the plea from a three year old we tried to do a few things around the house.

Spiders on the table

A pumpkin in her room

A few pumpkins from Publix (dressed up a little)

Candy Cane candle given to me by my sweet husband

And a sneak at what Grace is going to be for Halloween

Our Little Flower Girl

2009-10-12T10:01:00.013-04:00

Chad and I have had the honor and privilege of watching this storybook love story unfold. Chad and I met the groom, Drew, several years ago at The Orchard. He was one of our first youth kids and we have watched him grow into a wonderful young men. When he graduated from high school Chad talked him into staying around with the youth group as a helper. Then a couple years later we hired a wonderful, single youth pastor, Heather. Heather and Drew hit it off from them beginning. We all know they were dating before they did.

My girls feel in love with "Header". They see her as the amazing women she is! It was an honor to be asked if Grace could be part of their wedding. But it was such a JOY to be with Heather on her special day. It was a true storybook day. I can't wait to see what God has in store for these newlywed couple.

My beautiful flower girl!

Grace watching for "her" Heather when we first got there.

Rehearsal dinner night. Chad showing the girls how to make shadows.

I went back and forth on whether or not to have Grace's hair done. I am so glad I did. It made her into such a beautiful little girl.

All the girls hanging out during our four hour hair production. Grace did such a GREAT job.

Flower basket.

Grace was mesmerized by Heather getting ready.

Chad and Olivia waiting on the wedding.

So thankful for Brandi coming to help with Olivia. We couldn't of done it without her!

Grace did an awesome job! She tried to stop at the top of the stairs but thanks to Emily she came on down. And then stood and watched the ceremony. We had no embarrassing moments. I was one proud mama!

Are they not the most beautiful couple!

She was truly a beautiful bride!

She was so tired after so a fun packed day!

Grace made a new friend, Amanda, one of the bridesmaid.

We bribed Grace all day with this big sucker.

Olivia pushed Brandi to dance floor! It was SO cute.

Both of the girls were dancing fools. They stayed out there almost the whole time.

My family after a LONG day!

Catalyst 2009

2009-10-12T09:44:00.002-04:00

Last Thursday and Friday I was able to spend an amazing two days at Catalyst in the Gwinnett Arena. Two days of amazing worship with over 12000 people and several outstanding speakers. There is nothing like those two days to re energize and put the spark back in your heart. And to be able to spend it with church family made it even better.

Mac Powell singing right after his inspirational story about adoption.

With my Catalyst buddy, Karen.

With two of my favorite people. Jed and Amanda

Keeping Me Busy

2009-10-07T14:01:00.002-04:00

The girls are keeping me busy!

I love love love Olivia's personality but the girl keeps me on my toes.

She loves markers. I hate markers. You should see her baby doll, she is just as cute with black marker on her.

I thought having the cheez-its on the bar counter top was high enough away from little hands. She is just so proud of herself. (And these two things happened within five minutes of each other. Just to show you how busy she is.)

Grace continues to love school. This week they were studying the letter D. Isn't she a cute dog!

And she is just so excited that she got to bring home the class mascot, Champ. He gets to spend the weekend with us. We write a little about what he did with us and then send him back on Monday.

Love Fall Afternoons

2009-10-01T21:28:00.005-04:00

I just love nice fall afternoons. My favorite place is outdoors watching the kids play! Nothing better!

Erin, Olivia, Grace and Aidan

(my two with two others I keep)

My sweet girl Olivia

I love all these pictures of Grace. They really show off her personality.

2009-09-29T08:22:00.003-04:00

18 month check up

2009-09-18T11:37:00.003-04:00

Today Chad and I took Olivia to her 18 month appointment. All went well, she is healthy and developing right where she should be. She weighed in at 24 1/2 lbs and was 33 1/2 inches long. That put her in the 50th percentile for weight and 90th for height. She was such a good girl during the appointment and allowed them to poke and look with no rejections. Then came the shots. ALL four of them! She only cried for about 30 seconds but she was and is still mad about it. In the car she wouldn't even look at us. And now that she is home she is sitting on the sofa with no interaction with me...other then looking at me every few minutes and pointing to her leg saying "booboo". It is sad but her expressions are cracking me up.

** On a side note Olivia has started asking to go to the potty. It started last week. If someone was in the bathroom she would come in and want to take her diaper off and then sit on the potty. She would not take no for an answer so we did a lot of sitting in the bathroom. Then on Sunday morning she asked to go "poopoo" (which she calls everything). So we went to go sit on the potty and she actually peed in the toilet! Ever since then she will just look at me at any time, try to pull down her pants and say poopoo. But 90% of the time it is while she is currently going to the bathroom in her diaper. At the doctors office today she asked to go and went in the potty! So proud of her but so not ready for potty training my 18 month old!

Ballet

2009-09-14T16:20:00.004-04:00

It started last year...Grace took soccer practice. When her little season was over we asked her if she was going to play soccer again next year. She told us no that she wanted to "Do Ballet". I didn't even know she knew what ballet was. So this year we signed her up for ballet. Her school offers a program (or I should say brings in a company to offer a program) after school on Mondays. Today was her first day. I took a little peak in her window and she was doing awesome! She came out beaming from ear to ear and glitter down her arm. She was in heaven and has talked about it for the last hour!

Olivia needed a leotard too.

Sleeping Beauty

2009-09-10T21:53:00.000-04:00

Back to School

2009-09-09T14:46:00.003-04:00

Today was Grace's first day back to school. We celebrated last night with apple cupcakes. Gracie was super excited this morning and wanted to go to school as soon as she woke up. Dropping off was easy, no tears just a hug and a kiss.

Maw Maw came and picked up this afternoon with mommy. Grace was so excited to see her! She had an awesome day! Can't wait to go back Friday!

My whole crew

One and a half

2009-09-06T22:08:00.003-04:00

Olivia is now one and a half. Where is my little baby going? Olivia continues to be such a character. She loves being around people and showing off. Her facial expressions are so cute and funny...she knows they get others attention. She loves to feed herself and ask for "juice" all day. Even though "juice" can be milk, water, etc. She likes to drink mommy and daddy's diet coke too. She has started sitting with us in a booth when we go out to eat. She does pretty good and is much happier. And just this past weekend has graduated from a stroller at the soccer games. Olivia is repeating new words every day. Words that you will hear from her often are, pipi (paci), goca (copa, our dog), juice, shoe, baby, dada, mama, ball, peese (please) and bye bye. She loves baby dolls. She will push them in strollers, feed them, kiss them and carries them around under her arm. She can point out must of her main body parts; hair, eyes, ears, mouth, nose, tongue, hands, feet and belly. Olivia is currently in "non eating" phase but that could be that she has ANOTHER double ear infection. She is still in love with her paci...what a hard habit it will be to break. She now tells you when she is wet or dirty by patting her bottom and then bringing you a diaper. She has asked to sit on the potty several times but nothing has happened. She is such an independent girl wanting to walk holding hands, climbing in the car, telling the dog what to do, taking her clothes off...Enjoy all the pictures below of my sweet, crazy, lovable girl.

Preschool Open House

2009-09-04T12:43:00.003-04:00

On Wednesday Grace had her open house for preschool. Grace will be attending the three day three year old class. Grace was excited about going to meet her teachers but as soon as we showed up she became VERY quiet. In fact...I don't remember her speaking at all to her new teachers or her teachers from last year. I hope she comes out of her shell a little with this school year. Her classroom is super cute in the theme of dogs. And her teacher were very nice. I am so excited for what this school year will bring!

Grace and Erin will be in the same class this year.

Ms. Joni

Ms. Tina

Camping Out

2009-09-04T12:32:00.004-04:00

Grace and daddy camped out in the backyard last weekend. Grace was SO excited about it! She woke up Saturday morning asking about the tent. So at 9:30 am Chad set the tent up. Grace planned everything from having a flashlight to a pink sleeping bag. When it became dark we fix a fire and roasted marshmallow. But Grace kept telling us she was tired. She was SO ready to try to the tent out. Chad and I had a bet on weather or not she would sleep all night. I won! She slept all night and didn't wake up till 8 the next morning!

Olivia got to enjoy a few minutes outside before she went to bed.

Grace's first time at a wedding shower

2009-09-04T12:28:00.003-04:00

Grace was able to attend her first wedding shower. Heather and Drew will be getting married in October and Grace is one of the flower girls. She is super excited. Gracie was overall a well behaved at the shower other then I did learn she gets a little hyper active when she is nervous.

Awesome Family Day

2009-08-20T09:11:00.003-04:00

Family time is more priceless for us now that we are back into the grind of things. A little of our week looks like this...daddy goes to work each day from 8-5, mommy keeps kids in the house 7-5, Chad refs on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights, Chad coaches soccer on Tuesday and Thursday nights, Chad plays soccer on Friday nights, Chad's boys plays games on Saturday (the girls and I follow him around to all his soccer stuff), Sunday is church in the morning and youth in the evening and then thrown into all that is finding time to grocery shop, birthday parties, wedding showers, baths time, dinner (don't laught...some nights it is hard to find time to eat and bathe) etc. SO...when we find time for the four of us, we just soak it up. This past Saturday we ran errands together all day and ended up at the Mall of Georgia walking around, eating dinner and enjoying an outdoor concert.

Mimi and Pops

2009-08-19T13:30:00.002-04:00

Grace really loves to draw right now! When I asked her what the above picture was she told me it was Mimi and Pops (Chad's parents). Then I asked what they were doing and she told me they were driving in a car to come her. Soo Sweet!

I love Pigtails

2009-08-13T08:41:00.000-04:00

Grace at 3 1/2

2009-08-11T13:45:00.001-04:00

Grace continues to grow to a beautiful girl! I sometimes believe she thinks she is older then 3 1/2. She loves playing with her friends but continues to be very motherly to them (and sometimes that gets in the way of a good play date). She loves when I ask her to help watch Olivia. She claims it by stating that she is the "babysitter". She is great with Olivia. She helps her climb onto furniture, holds her hand in the parking lot, picks her up, hugs and kisses her, finds her toys and pacis. And she always MUST give a hug and kiss before they go to bed. Gracie's favorite thing to do right now is write, color or cut. I try to always have a notebook and a pen in my bag when we go out because I know if will entertain her for a while. She does a great job coloring within the lines and she can even help me cut out coupons now! She also likes playing mommy with her baby dolls. She loves puzzles and games as while. Grace is a good eater as long as their is nothing green to eat. I even have a hard time hiding veggies in stuff, she always seems to find it. She loves milk especially chocolate milk! I bet she drinks her weight in fluid every day. She continues to be shy around people at first (even people she is familiar with) but will start showing off within the first few minutes. One of her church preschool teachers told me the other day that she is so sweet and talks to them until a youth volunteer comes into the room and then she goes right to them. She absolutely LOVES our youth group kids. The play with her, give her fun food...really give her whatever she wants. Grace is completely potty trained but we do still put a pull up on at night. She sleeps about 10 hours at night and 50% of the time she takes a nap in the afternoon. She will now say our prayers before meals by blessing our food and family. It is so sweet to hear. Chad and I are having to start working on her little sassy side. Even though it is funny at this young of age we also know we need to nip it in the bud. Here are a few of her sassy comments and actions from the last few weeks...

~ They other day I went to check on Grace as she was suppose to be going potty. I told her that she needed to stop acting up or I was going to spank her. She looked right at my face and said, "No you won't.". I was shocked at her back talk and responded with ,"EXCUSE ME?!". She then went on to say, "You won't spank me because y'all get poop on your hand!".

~ One afternoon I asked Grace to lay down and try to take a nap. She went kicking and screaming in protest. I let it go for a while but finally went into her room to check on her. She was lifting the corner of her quilt where the tag was. Through tears she started yelling at me that, "It says it right here!". Pointing to the tag. When I asked her what it said she read the tag, "Grace does not have to take a nap!". I told her I overruled her quilt.

~ When Grace acts up she either gets time out or something taken away from her. So just today I went to turn the tv off when she was being ugly. Of course she starting crying telling me she wanted to watch tv...and then she asked if she could just have a spanking so she could finish her tv show.

~ This past week as I asked her to rest during a nap she continued to get up and come find me in my bedroom. I threatened that I better not see her again. Just a few minutes later I saw her walking backwards towards me. In my mommy voice I said, "GRACE". Without turning around she said, "It's not Grace...it's just my butt." Where does she get this from?

This is a picture of Grace's chalk drawing outside. It is of her daddy in a stripped shirt under a umbrella. Better good for a three year old to do all by herself.

Happy 1st Birthday Tyler

2009-08-10T16:18:00.008-04:00

We enjoyed celebrating my nephew's first birthday this past weekend in South Carolina! Tyler is such a sweet, laid back, little guy. I just love this boy to death. (Get ready for picture overload)

Are these not the cuties cupcakes!!!

Our serious little guy finally got into the smash cake!

Present time!

My girls hanging out with Caleb. I wish you could hear the giggles in this room. What a sweet sound.

Poker!

Hudson and Gracie

Olivia and Tyler

Maw Maw and Paw Paw with all the grandkids

Maw Maw and Gigi

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While we were in town we were also able to go to the Bouknight family reunion. Below are just a few pictures but it does not show all the family or the great turn out!

Brownies

2009-08-07T21:18:00.004-04:00

Today the girls helped me make brownies. My first thought was I thought Grace and Erin would love cooking. Little did I know that Olivia wanted to get her hands dirty also. She pulled her own chair across the room to the counter top and climbed onto the chair all on her own. The two big girls were very patient with her...because she wanted to do everything! The biggest lesson Olivia learned was that brownies have to cook!

I gave them each a spoon with a little bit of the batter on it...it's the best part!

"I WANT MORE!"

"Please"

This is when we first put them in the oven...

On No...she is about to get upset...

she can't figure out why they have to be in there...

MELTDOWN...so sad and funny all a the same time

Everybody enjoyed brownies with lunch later on in the day.....

A new year has begun...

2009-08-07T21:09:00.003-04:00

A new school year has started. In my house it means the house is full. God placed a gift on my heart many years ago...the love of children. Their is something about holding a baby or making a child laugh that makes my heart happy. This year I have three sweet kids...

Asher...sweet, active, happy eight month old.

Erin...a blond, talkative, pink lover, loving three year old.

(Grace, Erin and Aidan)

Aidan...a calm, people pleaser, fun, easy going three year old.

(Aidan and Erin)

Olivia is 17 months

2009-08-05T10:05:00.002-04:00

Olivia is now 17 months old and SUCH a character! She is currently up to 11 teeth, top four, bottom three and four molars. She is talking up a storm. You can't always recognize the words she is saying but she talks away. She still screams to get your attention or when she is mad. But 75% of the time if you ask her to use her words she will tell you what she wants or talk gibberish to you. Sometime she will even stop playing look at me and in her own "words" tell me what she wants. My response is usually "show me what you need". She will then take me by my hand and show me. So CUTE! She is still a really good sleeper. She sleeps between 10 and 12 hours at nap and then takes a 2 to 4 hour nap in the afternoon. When she gets up she wants everything out of her crib...several pacis, giraffe and frogie, and both blankets. Olivia is still a picky eater...no veggies unless they are hidden in a casserole, soup, etc. She can now climb up into a chair at the kitchen able and thinks she is hot stuff. She loves her juice or milk and often uses her cup as a comfort item. She loves playing with the big kids and pushing toys around the house. Olivia is absolutely in love with Grace! Always giving her hugs and kisses. She gets nervous around new people and will hide her face. She loves to sing and dance. She is currently cries when mommy leaves her with a babysitter or in nursery at church but settles very quickly. She loves being tickled and tickling others. She enjoys duck, duck, goose and ring around the roses, although she falls down before everyone else. She has become mommy's little helper wanting to help vacuum and unload the dishwasher. Olivia is just such a fun girl and we love her to death!

Fun with Daddy!

2009-08-05T09:04:00.003-04:00

I really don't understand why my family gets sick in the summer!!! Chad and Olivia both have had bronchitis this past week. Knock on wood...Grace and I have stayed well. Since they have both been under the weather we have stayed away from others a little more then usually and it has given us some fun bonding moments. We love having fun with daddy!

This past weekend we went to the Stone Mountain park. Our intent was to watch the laser show. But after a summer downpour of rain we went home soaking wet instead. Memories!

My girls take after their daddy with the candy!

We also celebrated Chad's birthday! This is the kind of cake you get when you let a three year old pick it out.

Eleven Years

2009-07-27T20:52:00.004-04:00

Chad and I have been married for eleven years. It makes me feel old to think of the word eleven but I feel like me just met yesterday. I am so glad God made me for him and He made him for me. What a blessing to still be happily married, I can't wait to see what the years ahead have for us.

Here is a little recap of our last eleven years together...

Met in 1994 at Georgia Southern University. We were next door neighbors and I quickly became friends with all the boys living in his apartment.
Starting dating in January 1995 after spending our winter break hanging out with each other. All of our friends knew we would be dating before we did.
On Chad's birthday, August 4, 1997 we became engaged.
Both of us graduated from GA Southern after winter semester of 1997. I graduated with a degree in special education and Chad with a double degree in Marketing and Logistics.
We both moved into my parents home in Stone Mountain, GA as we searched for our first "real" job.
Chad landed his first job at Wells Fargo in April 1998 and I found a job in Gwinnett County School System for the 1998-1999 school year.
We married July 25, 1998!
Honeymooned in Orlando, Fl and on a four day cruise.
Lived our first year in an apartment in Snellville, GA with two long haired Chihuahuas.
Bought our first home and moved into it November 1999.
Met some incredible neighbors, Trisha and Daniel. I am eternally grateful for them helping Chad be lead to Christ.
In fall of 2000, Chad and I felt lead to start a new chapter of our life and help plant a church in Loganville, The Orchard.
After the 2000-2001 school year I left the teaching field and started work in the ministry field as a part time children's pastor at The Orchard.
In 2001 added a sweet little puppy mute into our home, Cooper.
Celebrated five wonderful years of marriage at The Ritz at Lake Oconee.
Chad left Wells Fargo and started a new job at Lendmark.
In 2005 added a playful black lab puppy name Erkskin.
After several years of infertility became pregnant in early summer 2005, announced to the world our good news on our wedding anniversary of 2005.
Brought our first joy into the word on January 26, 2006.
In summer of 2006 I went from working mom to stay at home mom. Keeping other kids in the house to help supplement income.
Brought home another puppy, Copa, a brown lab in 2007.
Delivered my second daughter on leap year 2008, February 29.
Enjoyed our 10 year anniversary in Savannah, GA bringing along sweet baby Olivia.
Chad found a wonderful new job in sales at NaturChem in April 2009.

So here we are at our eleventh anniversary in our same home of almost ten years with two absolutely beautiful sweet little miracles, a wild brown lab, still serving at The Orchard church and loving each other more today then when we meet 15 years ago.

Sweet Olivia

2009-07-24T08:27:00.002-04:00

My sweet girl is starting to look more grown up. She is such a little mess and a ham for the camera.

Water Park

2009-07-14T21:22:00.001-04:00

We had a wonderful family afternoon this past weekend by heading to Lenora Water Park. We stayed almost three hours enjoying the sun and the water. The girls had a blast. The only complaint was from Grace, she was upset she couldn't go down the BIG slide!

Cow Appreciation Day

2009-07-10T13:41:00.004-04:00

Today was Cow Appreciation Day at Chick-fil-a. Which means if you dress like a cow you will get free food. So after finding items around the house like cow pjs (thanks Robyn), black scrapbook paper and face paint, we were off to get our free food. About halfway to Chick-fil-a I began to think this could be a bad idea...I have three kids, three years and younger, who are ALL afraid of the Chick-fil-a cow. But with our faces painted and spots on we were not turning around. So the next five minutes of travel I gave a little pep talk about how the big cow is our friends...we will not cry or scream when we see it because we are big boys and girls.

Yummy Free Food!
We were able to get three free kid meals and free combo because even I dressed up with spots on my shirt!

On NO here comes a cow!
I will not panic I can hold all three on my lap if I need to.
Success! We touched the cow and we have no tears!!!
Well at least from the older two!I just had to share this picture because it cracked me up! Do you think she may need to go to the bathroom?

Show Us Where You Live

2009-07-10T09:50:00.003-04:00

I have decided to participate in another "Show Us Where You Live" Friday from Kelly's Korner. This week we show our foyer or entryway of our house. At first I thought that was a pretty boring place to show but soon realized it is one of my favorite parts of my house. So here it is...

The walk up the side walk to our front door.

Inside view of our front door. I would really LOVE to replace our front door one day. Hint hint honey!

I love pictures of my family so I love these bookshelves right inside our front door.

My favorite picture hung inside of my house. Not just because they are of my girls but because we had people sign it when they were both first born.

Girls Night Out

2009-07-08T09:02:00.003-04:00

Gracie and I had our first true "Girls Night Out". I was excited to have this time with Grace (without Olivia fighting for attention) and to have adult conversation with a friend. We started with dinner out and finished the night painting pottery. It was a great night.

Grace loves hanging out with her friend Erin.

Grace surprised me on how much she enjoyed painting. She took VERY little guidance from me and did a great job. I was impressed on how she picked the colors and areas of the butterfly she was going to paint. She diffidently got this talent from her daddy.

4th of July

2009-07-06T11:21:00.004-04:00

The 4th of July was spent at Maw Maw and Paw Paw's house. We had a normal fun of swimming, waverunner rides, bike rides, yummy food and golf cart rides. We watched beautiful fireworks over the lake. Grace enjoyed them and Olivia like the first ten seconds of them and then she was ready to go play.

The 4th is also a special day because it is my sister's birthday. This year she turned the big 30!!!

16 Month Olivia

2009-06-30T20:22:00.002-04:00

Olivia just turned 16 months old and I am LOVING this age!!! She is full of spunk and just so fun to be around! She is into everything and wants to try everything the big kids do. Today she even helped me carry in grocery bags! She continues to love Gracie but can also hold her own now when Grace is bugging her. She loves to dance, her favorite being the chicken dance. She loves showing off and being the center of attention. During the day I will hear, "mama, mama, mama, mama", over and over again till I look at her. When I finally pay attentions she will start dancing or singing or standing on her head...then grins ear to ear. She loves animals and can spot them out anywhere including commercials. She is a picky eater but loves to feed herself. We have many shirtless dinners. She loves loves loves brushing her teeth. Every morning she comes into my bathroom and repeats the word teeth until I give her the toothbrush. We are still struggling with ear infections. We are on our fourth round of antibiotics in two months. I am ready to outgrow them!

2009-06-28T16:22:00.002-04:00

Copa, our one year old lab, loves water! It made me smile to watch her play, drink, fight and lay in the sprinkler!

What will tonight bring?

2009-06-27T21:35:00.003-04:00

Every night before I go to bed I go in and check on the girls, retuck them in and give them a kiss. Lately it has become a must that I check on Grace. Undoubtedly she has taken after her mother and has a hard time sleeping well until everybody is home. (Chad is still reffing three nights a week which gets him home pretty late.) One night this week I found her bed empty! After a second of fear I saw her asleep in the floor beside her bed. She made herself a nice little pallet...

Another night this week I put her down at nine. Just before eleven I went to check in on her and she was just laying in the bed wide awake!

And then one night she came in my room about midnight. I asked her what was wrong and she told me she was scared. She then told me their were monsters in her room. So I went in a sprayed the monsters aways then she went fast to sleep.

Summer Fun!

2009-06-24T16:23:00.003-04:00

Backyard Pool

Watermelon

Chad working on making us a new island in the front yard!

Sprinkler

Happy Father's Day ~ Day at the Lake

2009-06-21T16:07:00.005-04:00

I want to wish my number one man a Happy Daddy's Day! I am so blessed to have such an amazing guy to love, care and mentor Grace and Olivia. Not a day passes by that I wonder how much love he has for his girls. I love how excited they both get in the afternoon as they hear Chad drive up from work. Olivia just started saying, "My Dada". And it just melts my heart. Thanks honey for being such a great dad!

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Yesterday was spent at Lake Oconee celebrating Father's Day at Maw Maw and Paw Paw's. We were excited about spending a hot day in the water. Heather and Drew (some friends) also came over and spent a few hours with us. It was fun having someone go out on the boat with us and just hang out. I was proud of myself for jumping off a 15 foot rock into the lake as Grace watched. Olivia slept half the day away and Grace was a trooper hanging out with the big people. We had a first...Grace fell asleep standing up on the boat leaning against her daddy. So sweet!

Grace LOVED the waverunner.

Vacation Bible Camp

2009-06-18T10:26:00.003-04:00

Our church just finished VBC for 2009. It was a great week. Grace attended as a participant for the first year and had a good time. She had a great leader and talked about "camp" all day. Chad and I both served each night.

Our youth group kids ROCK! They stepped up and were the best volunteers.

Grace at games. The cute girl on the left is Brandie, her crew leader.

Olivia was in the nursery each night and enjoyed playing with all the kids. She loved flirting with everyone. In the picture below she is with one of our amazing volunteers, Gensis.

At first Grace did not want to get up front to sing the preschool song...but after bribing her with the water slide she stood up front. She didn't sing but she bounced up and down and clapped.

Chad was the host of the opening program each night and did a great job!

The last night we had a water slide. Before the night even begun both girls were playing on it minus the water.

But after it got dark and all 140 kids had a turn on the slide, Grace and I enjoyed the water slide with the youth kids. Grace loved it and was so proud of herself for keeping up with the teenagers.

15 month doctors appointment

2009-06-17T12:51:00.003-04:00

I took Olivia to her 15 month doctors appointment on Monday. She is developing great and growing like a weed. She weighed in at 23.6 lbs in the 60th percentile and 31 1/4 inches tall in the 75th percentile. Olivia also had her MMR shot. She did not like the nurse who gave her the shot. She actually spit at her. But she only cried for about 30 seconds and then waved good-bye to everybody.