In Over Our Heads

Valentine's Party

2012-02-14T20:43:00.002-06:00

It was my day to help with Sara's classroom party. She enjoyed a fun Valentine's Day!

My girl got a haircut this weekend...isn't she a cutie?

Thirteen Point One!

2012-02-14T20:38:00.001-06:00

Sunday morning, Jason ran his first half-marathon! The kids wore these shirts to cheer him on.

We got dressed for church, threw our daddy-inspired t-shirts on over our clothes, and then bundled up because it was COLD!

Grumpy went along to help with the kiddos. Brooks did not understand WHY we were standing out in the cold.

Yay! Daddy finished!

Our friend Lance ran too.

Congrats, Jason! A well-earned accomplishment.

From My Valentine

2012-02-14T12:55:00.003-06:00

Thanks, honey!

Primping

2012-01-29T21:49:00.000-06:00

Our Children's Director found Jason tonight to tell him the following story:

This morning, she asked the kids who needed to go to the potty. H told her she did. So they went to the bathroom, where H proceeded to look in the mirror and tell Betty, "I didn't really need to go. I just wanted to see how beautiful I was."

So we're good on confidence. May need to work a little on our humility...

Happy (early) Birthday to Grumpy

2012-01-29T21:46:00.001-06:00

The highlight of our Saturday was eating lasagna at Gigi's and wishing Grumpy an early happy birthday! On the way there, Hallie asked how old Grumpy was. When Jason told her, she said, "Wow. That's impressive."

Indeed. Happy birthday to our "impressive" Grumpy!

(And if you're curious about the facepaint, Hallie found some leftover facepaint in a drawer from when their Very Fun Nana kept them last fall and asked me to paint their faces on Saturday. B had a football on his cheek, which he found very amusing for all of five minutes. The girls, however, kept theirs on and asked for a touch-up after their naps.)

January Fun in the Sun

2012-01-16T19:43:00.002-06:00

We celebrated the long weekend with Mama Pat, Granddaddy, Aunt Melissa, and Uncle Austin (AND A.J., as the girls would remind me) at "The Orange Beach" (per Sara). I didn't take many pictures because we were too busy chasing Brooks around and enjoying our time together. But we had the beach to ourselves and the kids loved swimming in the indoor pool.

This picture makes me laugh. She looks like she's holding off the paparazzi.

Brooks and "Aus," as B has dubbed him, running full steam ahead.

And dipping toes into chilly water.

Off to a Good Start

2012-01-06T23:01:00.000-06:00

My first CVS run of the New Year was, in my book, a success.

I purchased the above items, all of which we use on a regular basis, for $17.64, with tax. And I have $1.60 in "CVS Cash" leftover for my next visit.

Total Paid: $17.64
Total Saved: $42.66

I'll take that ratio any old time.

Camera Phone Catch-Up

2012-01-06T09:58:00.002-06:00

Miss Carol sent me a couple of pictures from a birthday party earlier in the Fall, which reminded me--I haven't posted the pictures on my phone from the same party. And in scrolling through the phone pictures I discovered quite a few unposted ones. So today I'm playing catch up.

First, the party. The girls' sweet friend Lucy had her birthday party at her grandparents' farm, complete with horses! The girls loved riding, of course.

Waiting our turn to ride.

Next, our family lunch at Cracker Barrel last weekend. I think my girls would eat breakfast food for every meal, and I'm right with them.

And finally, in a burst of productivity last weekend, Jason and I recovered the piano bench from my earlier post, changed out some doorknobs, made a mudroom area, did a few other little things around the house, and installed a new chandelier in our dining room. I may bore you with pictures of the other things later, but for now, here's a low-quality camera phone shot of the new chandelier. (Again, I really must take "before" pictures. Trust me, this is an improvement.)

Project for the Day

2011-12-31T21:45:00.000-06:00

Remember THIS?

Well, I finally replaced it with a consignment store find that I re-covered last night. I really must take "before" pictures on these types of projects. Because I really can't do the hunter green shiny fabric that used to be on this stool justice...

So we'll see how long this one lasts.

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T21:39:00.005-06:00

Not sure where this post went, but here's a belated New Years post...

And if your New Year's dinner didn't include this sausage and cheese plate, well, I'm sorry. There's always next year...

Fun at Wiggle Time

2011-12-31T21:37:00.000-06:00

Christmas in Cookeville

2011-12-31T21:07:00.000-06:00

After Brunch at Gigi's, we headed north to Cookeville for Christmas with the Heads.

Dawson Christmas Morning Brunch

2011-12-31T20:56:00.001-06:00

Look! It's Ariel!

What's in the really BIG one?? (Note the new Little Mermaid costume, which Sara wore the entire morning.)

A Barbie House!

Which Brooks tried to climb...

A.J. got some cute socks.

The kids played all over Uncle Ted.

Ladybug raincoat!

Christmas Morning

2011-12-31T20:41:00.000-06:00

When we woke up Christmas morning, we lit the Christ candle on our Advent wreath,

We read the Christmas story from the girls' Jesus Storybook Bible,

And then opened our gifts!

A piggy backpack!

And a puppy dog! That talks!

And a pony! The pony sings a goofy song, which B sings with him.

Christmas Eve

2011-12-31T20:30:00.003-06:00

We talked Gigi into letting us host Manly Family Christmas Eve lunch at our house, and it was a great start to our holiday weekend.

Unfortunately, Hallie thinks it's hilarious to make silly faces when I'm about to take a picture.

This one's slightly better. Good thing Lane is verrrry patient!

Grumpy fried a couple of turkeys for the occasion.

Lane gave us this awesome castle!

And Brooks got a Cookie Monster, or "CookieElmo," as he calls it.

H got a Barbie game player, which she has been playing ever since. Uncle Mike helped her figure it out.

New pajamas and houseshoes!

Have I mentioned Lane is patient?

The Dawsons joined us for Christmas Eve service. Then, they came over for burgers (traditional Christmas Eve fare, right?).

All About Brooksie

2011-12-29T14:28:00.001-06:00

This sweet face has to share the blog with two very active sisters.

It seems he doesn't get adequate time in the spotlight. And so, today, a post just about my sweet boy who is going to be 2 in March! I can't even believe this. Soon there won't be any babies in my house anymore, and I get all wobbly just thinking about it. And then I remember that I'll get to throw out the diaper genie, eat meals with both hands, and (maybe one day) finish a sentence. And my equilibrium returns.

Anyway, more about this Sunshine...

My little guy has started talking, and he has quite a bit to say! Being of the destructive sort, he often says, "I break it" while holding the pieces to a previously assembled object. He also frequently ~~says~~ yells "No, no, Archie!" Poor dog. He calls both of his sisters, whether together or separate, "HallieSawah." And then there's his favorite, "He-y otter," complete with wave, when we pass the waterworks ponds on 280 every day.

Brooks is very opinionated. (Nothing like 3 for 3 on this statistic, no?) He has definite ideas about his milk cup, his jacket, his shoes and socks, and even what songs are played in the car. These opinions are not always articulated clearly, which leads to a lot of angst when Mommy is too dense to interpret them.

I mentioned his penchant for destruction. One unnamed grandmother described him as "hell on wheels" over Christmas, and, well, I can't argue with that. I always thought moms of boys were a little dramatic when they talked about the differences between boys and girls. I have a highly active firstborn daughter, and just couldn't imagine it would be that different. Note: I am now admitting my folly on the worldwide web. It. Is. Different. If B is out of my line of sight for more than 2 minutes, I become very concerned that something is now broken. Or, like the other night, that I will enter the playroom to find him STANDING on a table, so that he can clear the stuffed animals off of a shelf in one swoop. His level of "active" far surpasses even Hallie's, and if I stayed home I would lose 30 pounds, I'm sure of it, just from chasing him.

Last but best, Brooks is an affectionate thing, and he unabashedly loves his Mama! Which means he's also smart.

Aunt Melissa

2011-12-23T12:28:00.000-06:00

Our favorite part of the Candlelight program was Aunt Melissa's song, "A Baby Changes Everything" (sung by Faith Hill originally). It was beautiful, and just this morning H was dancing around the house in a sequin dress singing one phrase of the song over and over and over again.

After the program, Aunt Melissa came by for a hug. And Sara took the opportunity to play with her hair.

Hugs for Miss Kristin

2011-12-23T12:27:00.000-06:00

We went to Candlelight at Dawson after we got home from Boaz. The girls were ants on a hot rock throughout the service, and they were very relieved when they could roam freely after the program ended. As an added bonus, Miss Kristin came over to say hello!

Head Christmas in Boaz

2011-12-23T12:24:00.001-06:00

We went to Boaz last weekend for Head Christmas! We had a great crowd, and it was a fun time together. Here are the brothers and sisters and their spouses...

The cafeteria where we have the get-together had some Christmas decorations out that we explored.

We gave lots of hugs.

Hallie and her favorite, Chuck.

S and Charlie are two peas in a pod. They love each other.

How could you not love this little stinker?

Unfortunately, the chasing of children prevented me from getting everyone who was there, but here are a few faces...

They spent the day getting into mischief.

And check out this angelic expression. "What, Mom? Who? Me?"

Our sweet aunts gave the kids presents.

And Chelsea helped us figure out our new toys.

Christmas Program Videos

2011-12-16T20:28:00.002-06:00

S is on the front row in the center. H is near the back on the right side.

Preschool Christmas Program

2011-12-16T20:10:00.000-06:00

The girls had their preschool Christmas program Thursday night, and they had a great little audience. Both girls sang for all they were worth, and H got her line right in the program.

For his part, B stood on the pew saying, "Hey, Halliesawah!" and waving at them the whole time.

After the program, we went to a little reception in Sara's room and snapped a few pictures.

While Brooks destroyed the clean room...

Sara with her "bestest," Emma Parker.

Videos to follow!

How to Tell You're Loved

2011-12-15T14:57:00.000-06:00

Sara is at home with my dad and Gray today because she (allegedly) has pink eye. Before leaving for work this morning, Jason brought her her shoes.

Jason: Sara, wear these if you and Grumpy go somewhere.

Sara: Maybe I'll go to McDonald's.

Jason: You will go wherever Grumpy says.

Sara: We will go to McDonald's because he loves me.

Christmas Pageant

2011-12-11T21:20:00.001-06:00

Our church Christmas pageant was this morning, and this was H's first year to participate. She was part of the angel chorus (despite her not-so-angelic behavior this morning, but I digress...isn't she pretty?)

Austin and Melissa were very sweet to come watch the program. I promised Sara she could have candy during the performance. Here she has candy AND Aunt Melissa. Who could ask for anything more?

I got a little of the pageant on video. My favorite part is during the second song where H whispers "Hey, Sara," and waves at her sister. It's hard to notice on the video, but it was very cute in person.

All in all the show was a success.

Monkeys Jumping on the Bed

2011-12-11T21:14:00.002-06:00

This is all before 7:30 am. Don't you wish you lived at my house? I know you do.

Walk Through Nativity

2011-12-08T21:48:00.002-06:00

Jason had a meeting at church tonight, so I took the kiddos to Briarwood's Walk Through Nativity. Hallie had been asking when she was going to see Baby Jesus, and I finally figured out she was talking about the Walk Through Nativity, so I agreed to go. The girls were very excited, and we bundled up for the event.

Brooks's favorite part of the event: the live animals. He kept saying, "bye bye donkey" when we left a scene with a donkey in it.

He was particularly fond of this camel, who was quite large in person.

At the end of the nativity scenes, there was a small petting zoo area. Brooks was in heaven.

And finally we headed inside for cookies and hot chocolate--where Sara was in heaven. This grin sums it up nicely.

Class Christmas Play

2011-12-08T21:37:00.001-06:00

Sara and I went to Hallie's class Christmas play today. She was an angel--her role in the church pageant this weekend as well. So now whenever we see an angel in a nativity set, Sara says, "There's you, Hallie!"

Our angel and Claire the star.

And the video...

Quotable Hallie

2011-12-06T21:30:00.004-06:00

Listening to Celine Dion sing O Holy Night in the car.

Hallie: I love this part because she sings like [Aunt] Melissa!

(That Celine--she really must be something.)

Riding home, discussing our babysitter who is coming on Friday night.

Hallie: Can we watch "Rapunzel"?

Sara: No, wemembuh? Gigi couldn't get it to wuhk.

Hallie, patiently explaining: That's because Gigi is old and she needs Grumpy to help her.

(Heeheehee...)

At the BBC Christmas Concert tonight.

Jason, to Hallie: Ok, there are two more songs and then we're going to sing Joy to the World and then we have to go.

Hallie: Ohh, I'm gonna sing really loud!

BBC Concert

2011-12-06T21:20:00.002-06:00

Jason, James, and Heather took the girls to the Birmingham Boys Choir Christmas Concert tonight. The girls made it for an hour and a half and really enjoyed the music and the company.

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-06T21:14:00.001-06:00

On Thanksgiving Day, we watched the parade and then ate corn chowder with Pat Pat and Granddaddy.

At suppertime, we went to Aunt Ellen's house and ate a big feast!

She was so thoughtful, she even put out a table and crayons just for us!

We thought her glass table was especially cool from the underside.

And Aunt Melissa and Uncle Austin announced that they're having a boy!

Can't wait to meet you, A.J. Bonds! (And Brooks is especially excited.)

Speaking of Brooks, here's the mischievous ~~four year old~~ toddler now...

After a long night of shopping for Mommy, Gigi, Gray, Austin, and Melissa, we reconvened for Dawson Thanksgiving on Friday at Pat Pat's house.

And then on Saturday we went to Boaz for Brooks Thanksgiving, followed by a trip to Cookeville!

Where we played at Jumpville...

And Sara discovered her basketball skilz.

While Hallie showed off her climbing prowess.

Of course, we also hung out at Nana's house and Sara helped make a cake to celebrate Juju's birthday!

It was a hit.

Sara and Charlie serenaded us on Nana's new piano.

And we played dress up.

It was a great Thanksgiving week, and we have much to be thankful for.

ELC Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T15:20:00.000-06:00

The kids' school had a Thanksgiving feast yesterday. The whole center pulled their tables into the hallway and made a really long table to enjoy their lunch. You can see our own Princess Rainbow second or third on the right in this picture.

Happy Thanksgiving from Princess Rainbow

2011-11-22T20:02:00.000-06:00

Hallie's class made Indian princess outfits and got Indian Princess (or Chief, if you're a boy) names at school. H is Princess Rainbow.

Lots to be thankful for.

Hallie's recipe for Thanksgiving turkey:

1. Go to the Turkey Store.
2. Then chop the feathers off, put dressing in the turkey and some seasoning like pepper on it and 2 cans of bean soup.
3. Cook it for 11 hours.
4. Eat with peas and cranberry sauce that makes it yummy.

Hobby

2011-11-19T07:58:00.000-06:00

We hear H being loud from a few rooms away.

J: Hallie, what are you doing?

H (from the bathroom): Just looking at me in the mirror singing some songs.

Program Video

2011-11-18T20:39:00.000-06:00

The Thanksgiving Program video, courtesy of Emma Parker's mommy. Our little Indian is right in the middle. She's the one keeping time with her head during the song. :)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-15T10:28:00.000-06:00

My little Indian.

Photography by Hallie.

Sara and her "bestest," Emma Parker.

Unfortunately, Mommy's memory card in her camera was too full to get much of a video. Fortunately, Emma Parker's mommy got the whole thing and said she'd send it to me. I'll post it when I have it!

Rise and Shine!

2011-11-15T08:49:00.000-06:00

Poor Brooks. He has quite the wake up crew.

I am off to see my middle child be an Indian in her school program this morning. Video to follow.

A Boy and his Dog

2011-11-12T20:05:00.002-06:00

We thought they were on the back porch. And then we looked outside and realized that (a barefoot!) Brooks and Archie were wandering through the backyard with a rake, just checking things out--quite a little distance from our kitchen window.

Happy Birthday to Mama Pat!

2011-11-12T20:02:00.000-06:00

We had a belated birthday get-together for our Pat Pat on Thursday night.

Sara is Pat Pat's girl.

And Hallie adores her "Iss."

And we see which lady B snuggled up to.

Who doesn't love a good hug from their Daddy?

Silly boys.

When you have a birthday party at our house, you get lots of help opening your presents.

Until one of them contains bubble wrap!

And then it just gets REALLY noisy...

Toward the end of the evening, a certain little girl lined up a very compliant "choir."

Which she then "directed."

I feel certain we'll get an Encore sometime soon.

The Homefront

2011-11-12T19:53:00.000-06:00

Nana kept the kiddos from Wednesday through Saturday morning while we were in Seattle--and even lived to tell about it! On Saturday morning, Gigi, Grumpy and crew took the reins to keep them entertained until we got home Sunday night. It looks like they had quite a good time. (Gigi also sent us some pictures of children in orange and blue attire, but I didn't post them because those can't possibly be my children).

A HUGE thank you to all of the babysitters!!

Trip to Seattle!

2011-11-12T19:46:00.000-06:00

Jason and I went to Seattle for a work conference last weekend. JUST the two of us! We didn't take very many pictures (and the ones we took aren't fabulous), but we had a great time!

This is a terrible picture of me, but I am including it nonetheless because my husband, who makes fun of my picture-taking fetish, humored me by actually lying on the ground for a moment to take it looking up.

We only had one day that was mostly-free. Jason ran a 5K that morning while I finished my conference, and then we headed out for a drive to Mount Rainier.

It got a little icy as we got higher.

Trunk or Treat

2011-10-31T20:34:00.000-05:00

James and Heather had the winning trunk at the Trunk or Treat, and it's easy to see why!

As Hallie said, "I know why they're doing Rapunzel and Flynn Rider--because James looks like Flynn Rider!"

We managed to pry the kids away from the Rapunzel trunk for a little fun at other trunks.

Brooks loved Mr. Luther!

This better not be a sign of things to come!

Bragging

2011-10-31T13:43:00.000-05:00

In case you didn't know, my sister is fabulous. Should you need proof, listen to her sing here.

Playing with Pat Pat and Grandaddy

2011-10-30T15:09:00.002-05:00

Fall Festival!

2011-10-29T13:02:00.001-05:00

The Three Blind Mice had a blast at Gigi and Grumpy's Fall Festival last night! They stayed up late, ate candy, played games, rode rides, and wore costumes...who could ask for anything more?

Aunt Melissa held Brooks most of the night--her arms are probably sore this morning!

We started the evening in costume and looking cute. But you may notice that, as this post goes along, we lose pieces of our costumes (which Mommy and Gigi end up collecting and holding) until we ultimately look like gray blobs with pink tummies. Good thing we're cute gray blobs!

Mommy will go with an accessory-free costume next year.

Sara confiscated Gigi's gloves. It was chilly outside.

Brooks did NOT understand why we had to wait in line to ride this. But he really liked it once it was his turn. I kept hearing him say 'Wheee!"

The girls were in it for the loot. They thought the games were ok, but you could kind of tell Hallie was wondering how many rings she had to toss before they'd dole out some candy!

B was totally enamored with the ball and bat activity. He kept trying to get the ball when other kids were swinging--thankfully we avoided any bat-upside-the-head incidents. But he did manage to hit the ball with the bat when it was his turn--even if his swing resembled Bam Bam instead of a baseball player.

We ended the evening with a trip down the big slide.

Thank you Gigi, Grumpy, Iss, and Austin for taking us to your festival! We had a great time and are driving Mommy nuts with the candy today!

The Three Blind Mice

2011-10-29T12:37:00.001-05:00

Happy Halloween!

Car Ride Musings from Hallie

2011-10-26T08:51:00.002-05:00

1. "Mommy, when I grow up I'm going to have six kids."

2. "I don't put dots over my "i"s anymore. I use hearts now."

Another Saturday, Another Race

2011-10-24T08:25:00.000-05:00

Jason ran in his third race this year on Saturday. This one was an 8K, and he ran the whole (hill-laden) thing! We are very proud of him!

For their part, the kids have figured out that where there's a race, there's probably a bouncy house or something fun for them to do. They were not disappointed on Saturday morning. And even Brooks got in on the action because there weren't any really big kids in the bouncy house.

And we got our faces painted too!

It was a fun way to start the day.

Two-Seater Tricycle

2011-10-24T08:21:00.000-05:00

At the park on Friday night, Brooks decided he'd like to hitch a ride on Sara's tricycle. Being the sweet big sister she is, Sara peddled slowly so B could ride on the back. He, of course, loved it.

Bedtime Story

2011-10-16T22:21:00.000-05:00

Best friends like these are proof of God's love to me above all I could ever ask or imagine.

The Rebelettes Take the Grove

2011-10-16T22:00:00.004-05:00

On our way into Oxford on Saturday (after H woke everyone up at 5:45 because she was too excited to sleep), the girls were contemplating when they could go to Ole Miss. They have decided that they will share their own "department," which will have a pool. A blue pool, because that's Sara's "favuhwit culluh."

And I will hang this picture in said department...

Our tailgate group was out in full force on Saturday, and we played with the Whaleys, Moffatts, Peppers, and Herringtons. Brooks stayed behind, which meant all girls at our tent.

Dahlia gained more yards than the entire Ole Miss offense on Saturday.

We joined hands and weaved through the crowd to the stadium before kickoff.

And arrived in plenty of time to get seats and poms poms.

We reveled in the brief moment when we were beating Alabama...and it was oh so brief.

We kept occupied with Skittles when the game was not as interesting.

Then we hiked back to our tent around halftime to pack up.

Where Sara and Pep had an in-depth conversation while we loaded things.

It was a perfect day in Oxford--except for the game. But the girls had a blast and Sara asked earnestly if we could do it again next week.

Unfortunately for her, these parents need a break from THAT much fun all in one Saturday. But we'll be back again in our red and blue, and hopefully with a more impressive football team to show for it next time.

Hotty Toddy to all, and to all a good night!

Doctor Appointment

2011-10-10T08:57:00.002-05:00

Brooks had a (late) 18 month checkup today. He is 3 feet tall, which is off the charts. He weighs 29 lbs 4 oz, which is only the 85th percentile--we must need to fatten him up. Jason and I counted last night and he can say about 30 words.

Dr. Anderson did say that he has some issues with a waxy right ear, so we're going to work on that and go back in a couple of weeks to let the doctor take another look. Otherwise, our little man is just perfect.

UPDATE: Forgot to mention that Doctor Anderson's off-the-record guess at B's future height is between 6' 6" and 6' 7".

Western Day at the Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-09T21:35:00.002-05:00

It was Western Day at the Pumpkin Patch on Saturday, so we donned our cowboy apparel and headed out for our yearly trip to the Patch. This year we were joined by quite a crew!

Brooks didn't so much want to wear his hat...but he liked to put it on other people.

B loved the tractors to the point that he didn't want to leave them to do the other activities at the farm.

We finally coaxed him off the tractor to swing with Aunt Melissa.

Sara and Nana danced to the live music.

B quacked at the ducks.

And Daddy gobbled at the turkeys.

The girls loved the calves.

And we washed the calf slobber off.

We loaded up the hayride to go pick out our pumpkins.

Hallie was a picky pumpkin picker.

Sara's hunt was simple. She said early in the week that she wanted a big orange one, and that's what she got.

Holding hands on the hayride back.

And giving Hallie "five."

Sara rode Peanut the Pony.

H rode Queenie again this year.

Then the girls climbed into a trailer full of cotton.

While Brooks found his beloved tractor again.

We enjoyed the beautiful fall weather and the live music for a few more minutes on our way back to the car.

It was a perfect fall Saturday at the pumpkin patch, and marked our fourth consecutive trip to Old Baker Farm for our pumpkins. If you'd like to take a peek at how we've changed in the past four years, go here for our trip in 2008, here for 2009, and here for 2010. What a fun tradition.

Ballerina Chaos

2011-10-09T20:47:00.000-05:00

Sara Bee attended a ballet birthday party for a friend last weekend. The pictures are very grainy, because the only camera I had was my phone. But I had to capture a little of the pure chaos--and a little of Sara and her "bestest," Emma Parker. They've been in the same class at school every single year of their little lives, and they are two peas in a pod. EP is in the blue next to Sara.

I would just like to point out that my little ballerina is actually sitting still for the photo--a once in a lifetime moment for sure!

We Came, We Ran, We Lived to Tell About it

2011-10-01T11:46:00.000-05:00

Jason and I completed a 5K this morning. Jason ran the whole thing! I only ran about 2/3 of it, but considering my slack-off on training the past month or so, it could've been worse. We survived--even if my legs feel like they may fall off any minute.

[Sidenote: the fact that I am posting a no-makeup post-race picture of myself on the worldwide web has not escaped me. Don't worry--I won't make a habit of it.]

The real star of the show, though, was Uncle James, who maneuvered through crowds, face painting, balloon animals, and live horses (!) with our crew while we ran. This picture leaves a lot to be desired, but I had to capture the Babysitter Extraordinaire. Thank you James!

Grass

2011-09-28T09:06:00.000-05:00

On the way to school we saw a man cutting grass with a commercial lawnmower. He stood on the back of the mower while it cut the grass. This conversation ensued...

Hallie: I wish Daddy could get a lawnmower like that!
Sara: Only Daddy cuts the grass.
Mommy: When Brooks gets bigger, he can cut the grass too.
Hallie: And when we grow up and get married, our husbands can cut the grass!
Mommy: Yes. Or if you want to cut it when you grow up, you can.
Hallie (considering): Mmmm, I don't think I will. I don't want to get all sweaty and gross.

Observations by Sara

2011-09-24T19:24:00.003-05:00

Hallie: I'm brave.
Sara: I'm not.

Hallie: Are we going to have ice cream for supper?
Sara: It is food.

Silly Saturday

2011-09-22T22:20:00.000-05:00

When Mommy went out of town last weekend, Gigi and Grumpy declared it Silly Saturday and took the girls on an adventure. The adventure consisted of costume modeling...

Fun time at the Library...

And Aunt Melissa time...

Complete with Manicures and Pedicures!

And some art time.

What a fun day! I just hope the girls don't think EVERY Saturday is supposed to be so "silly!" I don't know if I can duplicate this day.

Girls Beach Trip!

2011-09-19T22:57:00.000-05:00

I had a truly fabulous weekend, courtesy of these precious ladies. We went to the Hogues' condo in Orange Beach and laughed until our stomachs hurt.

I got a little sun. :)

These women are such a blessing to me.

I'd also like to go on record as saying my husband is fabulous too. I came home to three children still in one piece and a CLEAN HOUSE, complete with folded--and put away!--laundry. Thank you, honey. This weekend was the end (I hope) of my survival mode of late, as it was a restful time away with plenty of fun.

Headfest

2011-09-19T22:47:00.000-05:00

After the Cookeville Fun Fest on Friday night, we enjoyed a Head mini-reunion, with Gary and Karyon, Chuck and Sandie, and Bobby and Dina. What a fun day together.

Fall Fun Fest

2011-09-19T22:36:00.001-05:00

We attended the Cookeville Fall Fun Fest a couple of weeks ago and had a blast.

Loving on Avery

Eating and LOVING corn on the cob

First Funnel Cake!

Bouncy House Fun

Fall Fun Fest also included a 5K, which Daddy, Juju, and JonJon ran on Saturday morning. We were the very encouraging, doughnut-eating cheering section.

Our Runners

Happy Birthday Uncle Gray!

2011-09-19T22:26:00.000-05:00

Swimming with the Josephs

2011-09-19T22:19:00.000-05:00

Our sweet friends the Josephs invited us over for a swim a couple of weekends ago. The weather was great, and the company was even better. As you can see, the baby pool was a hit (and it wasn't even lukewarm like most yucky baby pools--yay!).

Loving on Our Cousins

2011-09-19T22:07:00.001-05:00

I've been in "survival mode" for the past few weeks for a variety of reasons. Sadly, survival mode does not entaiil a lot of blogging. But I'm Ba-ack! And with lots of (old) pictures to post! Hang on to your hats!

Legacy

2011-09-16T08:46:00.001-05:00

This is the back seat of my van. This picture is for my grandfather, whose cars are always immaculate, and who once exclaimed while on a road trip with a 5 year old me, "Traveling with Anita is like traveling with pigpen! You open the van door, and papers fly everywhere!"

Questionable Judgment

2011-09-08T15:43:00.000-05:00

Sara, matter-of-factly: I'm gonna marry Tripp today.

Yep, the same Tripp who "freaks out," per our earlier conversation. So she doesn't make the best decisions--at least I know this early.

Doctor Destruction

2011-08-31T00:31:00.002-05:00

Meet our former piano bench. We had it one week before it met its fate...

There were no eyewitnesses to this crime, but it occurred at the hands of one Brooks Head, who is on a quest to destroy our house, one piece of furniture at a time.

Sloppy Joes

2011-08-25T19:37:00.000-05:00

My 18 month old just ate a WHOLE open faced sloppy joe for supper.

We fixed him half a sloppy joe, which he ate...and wore.

But, apparently, it was insufficient.

And in other news, if anyone hears about a contest for sad-faced babies for greeting cards or something, let me know. B is a shoo-in.

Duet!

2011-08-22T21:09:00.001-05:00

We got a new (old) piano today! I walked in tonight to hear plunking of keys and loud singing. As you can see, Brooks really wanted to join his sisters in their piano debut, but they weren't so keen on the idea.

Ice Cream Conspiracy

2011-08-21T21:33:00.003-05:00

Daddy was sharing his ice cream with Brooks, but when Daddy ran out, Sara still had some. Brooks is a bit of an opportunist.

And Sara's laugh makes me giggle. Every time.

Eskimo Kiss

2011-08-21T17:37:00.002-05:00

Purse Decorating

2011-08-21T17:36:00.002-05:00

My girl loves a craft project.

Equation

2011-08-21T12:45:00.000-05:00

This...

A Cuddly One of These...

Napping Children

One Deliciously Lazy Sunday Afternoon

Where We're Different

2011-08-19T13:03:00.001-05:00

This door.

I see it and think, "Oh my gosh! The headboard I've been wanting for weeks! It's perfect! Look at the peeling paint and the bright blue color!"

My husband sees it and thinks, "Who would pay for a crummy old blue door with the paint peeling off?"

TGIF

2011-08-19T09:56:00.001-05:00

On the way to school today, Sara sweetly said, "Mommy?"

I responded, "What, sweet girl?"

Smiling devilishly. "I'm gonna freak out at school."

I asked for clarification, assuming I misunderstood, "You're going to what?"

Still grinning. "Freak out."

"Sara, it's not a good idea to freak out."

"Tripp does it."

Tripp is a classmate. And, apparently, not such a good influence. Perhaps I should have warned Miss Carla about her plan...instead I quickly kissed her goodbye and dashed out of there. Good luck, day care.

Political Levity

2011-08-18T08:50:00.000-05:00

I try to stay away from all things political on the blog and, well, most of the time. But this is pretty creative...

Good find, Granddaddy.

Brooks Hearts Hallie

2011-08-17T21:24:00.002-05:00

As I rocked a sick Brooks to sleep tonight he kept raising his head off of my chest and calling out, "Hallie!" I'd tell him she went "night night," and he would say "night, Hallie" and snuggle back against me. About 30 seconds later, we'd repeat the whole scenario. I finally laughed and asked if he wanted to go tell her "night night" and he looked at me (with an undoubted internal "Obviously, Mom") and whispered, "Yes."

So we did. We went and hugged and kissed his sisters and he was a happy camper.

(He can't yet say "Sara," so both the girls are "Hallie" these days. Likewise, all animals are "Archie." He also doesn't say "Mommy"--I'd be offended except that he completely smothers me with his love. So I'll just take the hugs instead.)

Mixed Messages

2011-08-15T15:06:00.000-05:00

So the new sign in the breakroom probably loses a little credibility next to the sprinkle doughnuts...

Just Because it's Funny

2011-08-13T07:46:00.002-05:00

Reading with Hallie

2011-08-10T21:56:00.001-05:00

First Day Report

2011-08-08T22:02:00.003-05:00

Today was the first day of school for my little crew in their new classes.

Brooks moved up to the Toddler room, where he is still the resident giant. But the great part: he has Miss Toni! Yay! They're going to have a great year. He wasn't so sure about it when I left this morning but when I arrived to pick him up he was playing ball with Toni and having a great time. He waved and yelled "bye bye" to her with a huge grin. Seems he survived his first one-nap day...and on a cot no less!

Sara won the Most Excited Award this morning. She's so understated with her excitement that it just cracks me up to see her giddy about something. But that's really the word for her this morning when we entered the "big girl class" with Miss Carla, Hallie's teacher last year. She beamed all the way over to hang up her bag, when she realized that her name was written on a purple star next to her hanger (her favorite color!), and when she "signed in" with the purple rocket ship with her name on it. On the way home today she said, "Maybe my name will be purple tomorrow." When I told her it would be that way all year, she just smiled that big sweet smile. She also got to be the line leader! A banner first day for sure.

Hallie was very excited about her new 4K class...where they will go on field trips! She was less than thrilled that their class theme is Dr. Seuss and Cat in the Hat right now--she's not a fan. But her class is full of really sweet kids, and her mama couldn't be happier about that (and her bag hanger is right next to the little boy that she informed me she plans to marry, so that wasn't too shabby for her either).

It's looking like another good year. Hard to believe my babies are growing up and this time next year Hallie will be starting Big School........sigh.

A Few Additions

2011-08-07T20:10:00.000-05:00

I stole a few more birthday party pictures from Juju via facebook...

Movie Date

2011-08-04T15:35:00.001-05:00

Last weekend Jason and Jon took the girls and Charlie to see their very first movie.

Can you guess what they saw?

I'll give you a hint...

(If anyone is still stumped, they saw the Winnie the Pooh movie.) The girls loved it! Hallie actually quoted it the other night and I had absolutely no idea what she was talking about until Jason cleared it up.

Jason reports that Sara and Charlie assumed their classic zombie-like state in front of the big screen, just as they do in front of a tv.

Like how the blurry iphone gives Charlie's eyes the perfect zombie effect? :)

And, as could be expected, Hallie talked and asked questions throughout the movie. While Sara is content to watch and pick up what she can, Hallie insists on knowing why people are doing what they're doing. This is precious...and completely exhausting if you're trying to watch a movie.

Everyone gave the movie two thumbs up! Oh, and the popcorn got two thumbs up as well.

Submitted Recipes!

2011-08-02T17:04:00.002-05:00

As promised, and after much fretting, I am finally posting the submitted recipes! The fretting involved how to post a link to the 30 pages of recipes instead of clogging up the blog with all of them.

The good news: I can do it! Yay! Go HERE for all the recipe fabulousness from you, my beloved friends and blog readers.

The bad news: it's a little more cumbersome than I envisioned and you'll have to click the "Click here to download" link in the middle of the page to access it. Oh, well...bear with your technologically unsavvy blogging friend, won't you? (Meanwhile, if one of you knows how to do this seamlessly, share the knowledge!)

Anyway, my family thanks those of you who contributed to my recipe collection. And to everyone, download this little collection and mix up your weeknight dinners a bit! Bon appetit!

Bringing Some Recipes to the Table

2011-08-01T23:09:00.001-05:00

First, let me say that several folks really came through with the recipes and helpful tips! My family thanks you! They'll be posted as promised tomorrow (and if you haven't had a chance to send any, send 'em on and I'll add them before posting).

Since y'all were willing to share your tips and suggestions with me, I figure it's the least I can to do to add a few things of my own to the list. So, here are the few recipes that I make with great regularity and pretty much always have the ingredients on hand. Since it's my blog and I make the rules, my submissions aren't all within the dinnertime confines of the original recipe swap request. I've included a few appetizers and a side dish, too. So sue me. But I'll say this--they're all super-easy (otherwise I wouldn't be making them!).

First up, Asian Slaw, THE best side dish for tailgates and picnics. And it even counts as a "salad" for those of us who, well, don't really like salads... [warning: it makes a ton--combine it in a big bowl or you'll have an overflow problem!] I'm making this dish for a firm luncheon tomorrow. It'll be marinating happily while I sleep tonight.

Asian Slaw
From Martha Head's Kitchen

2 pkgs Angel Hair Slaw
2 pkgs Beef Flavor Ramen Noodles
1 bunch of chopped green onions
1 c toasted sunflower seeds
1 c toasted sliced almonds
1 c oil
1/2 c sugar
1/3 c apple cider vinegar

Crush noodles in the package. Pour crushed noodles in bottom of salad bowl. Next, layer cabbage, sunflower seeds, almonds, and green onions in bowl.

Mix the beef flavoring from the noodle packages with the oil, sugar and vinegar to make a marinade. Pour the marinade over the slaw and marinate for 24 hours. Mix the slaw before serving.

Next up, a fabulous dish from our friend Bethany Redmond. I've made this a lot since she posted it on her blog back in 2009. It's simple, involves a crockpot, and it's delicious. Who could ask for anything more?

Carnitas
2-3 lb pork roast
1 can rotel
2 cans El Pato tomato sauce (warning: this is a little tricky to find. it's in a yellow 8 oz can in the Hispanic section of the grocery store--unless you're talking about the Publix in Hoover on 31. It's not there at all.)
1 tsp cumin
dash of garlic salt
1 can chicken broth
1/2 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
1 can pinto beans

Dump all ingredients except the beans into a crockpot. Set on low and let it cook about 5 hours. Add can of beans and cook another hour. Take the roast out and shred it and add back to the pot. Cook for another hour or so and set up a build your own carnita station, complete with tortillas, cheese, sour cream, and maybe even rice.

Seriously. It's so good.

And of course, my all-time go-to, and it freezes too: Taco Soup

Taco Soup
Brought into our marriage at my husband's insistence from the kitchen of Martha Head--and thank goodness!

2 lbs ground beef (I've used 1 lb ground chicken or turkey with 1 lb of beef before)
1 can ranch style beans (in a black can--they're really called "ranch style beans"--who knew?)
2 cans diced tomatoes
1 can rotel
1 can pinto beans
1 can corn
1 pkg taco seasonings
1 pkg ranch dressing mix (the dry powder)

Brown and drain meat. Add all other ingredients and cook at medium heat 40-50 minutes. Serve over chips or crackers (fritos scoops are by far the best with this), if desired. Sprinkle with shredded cheese if desired (and you know you desire it).

My Mom's Spaghetti
My personal definition of comfort food. Super-easy and yummy. Must serve with garlic bread.

1 lb ground beef

Seasonings:
2 tsp chili powder
1 1/2 tsp dried crushed oregano
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 tsp garlic salt

6 oz tomato paste
2 1/4 c tomato juice
2 tbsp dried minced onion
3 1/2 c water
7 oz uncooked spaghetti

In large pot, brown meat and drain. In separate bowl, combine seasonings. Pour seasoning mix into meat. Blend in tomato paste. Stir in tomato juice, onion, and water.

Bring to a boil. Carefully add spaghetti and stir to separate. Cover and simmer, stirring frequently, for 30 minutes.

Black Bean Dip
I swear, I make this appetizer in my sleep. I'm sure my friends and family are tired of it. Problem is, I just don't get tired of it. So they'll have to keep eating it anyway...

16 oz salsa
1 can black beans
1 small can chopped (not sliced) black olives (don't let this scare you--I absolutely never eat black olives except in this dish)
1 lb bag frozen corn
2 c shredded Mexican cheese
1 bag fritos scoops (or another tortilla chip, if you prefer)

Mix it all together and serve with the chips. Makes a bunch and is perfect for a tailgate or picnic because it won't spoil in the heat.

My sister in law (in combination with Jason's Father's Day gift) has spurred our most recent go-to: Grilled Pizzas. The kids adore these. We buy Stonefire flatbreads in the deli and use them as the crust. Grill them on one side and then bring them inside and top the grilled side with sauce and whatever toppings your heart desires. We've used pesto, marinara, pulled rotisserie chicken, pepperoni, bacon, halved grape tomatoes, spinach, corn, and mushrooms in addition to different types of cheeses. After they're topped, put the pizzas back on the grill (the ungrilled side-down this time) and cook them long enough to melt the cheese and warm the toppings. Tip for these: Jason gets the grill really hot and then turns the flames way down before putting the pizzas on to avoid burning the crusts. They're great for a party because the guests can eat the toppings they want and everyone's happy.

And last but certainly not least, Sloppy Joes--from scratch. I know. I'm so fancy. Go HERE. Oh, and for obvious reasons, we call them Sloppy Saras, and sing the Adam Sandler song--"Sloppy Saras, sloppy sloppy Saras..."

So, there you go. All my tricks in one blog post. Don't say I never gave you anything.

Happy cooking, and I'll post the long-and-super-informative blog post with the recipe swap submissions tomorrow!

Recipe Swap Deadline

2011-08-01T08:26:00.002-05:00

Thanks to all who have sent me recipes via facebook, email, and comments! I've got several of them on my menu for this week!

If you still have a recipe or two that you'd like to share, please send it my way today. I'll be compiling them tomorrow and posting on Wednesday....

Sara's Birthday Party

2011-07-30T21:17:00.001-05:00

(Hallie got to open a couple of belated bday gifts, which worked out great.)

Sara loved her cupcake.

And then she scoped out her presents with Gigi before opening them.

She got lots of fun things, including a Rapunzel doll (she's been coveting Hallie's since May).

And a Rapunzel dress (notice a theme here?)...

And the Big Hit: a Rapunzel wig! Sara literally wore the thing for the rest of the party and continually swished it over her shoulders. She was thrilled.

And we were all very amused...

What's funnier than a long golden wig on your three-year-old? A golden wig with a Cat in the Hat hat on, of course!

We finally convinced her to tie the hair back for ease of present-opening. But she sure wasn't taking the thing off.

Several of us tried on the hat.

The youngest party guest...

Recipe Swap

2011-07-29T11:00:00.000-05:00

I sent the below email this morning and then realized that I have an even wider treasure-trove of brilliance in my friends and family who read this blog. So, I'm inviting y'all to participate as well! Please either email me or post a comment with your ideas, and I'll post the recipes in one (hopefully long and information-laden) blog post next week...

Hello!

Trying to make my weekly menu the last few weeks has had me really scratching my head for new ideas. So, I thought I would ask some of my brilliant friends and family members if they would be so kind as to give me their go-to recipe ideas so I can add them to my repertoire. If you're willing to play along, please reply with a quick-fix type of dinner recipe (kid-friendly is an extra plus) that you've made a few times. Doesn't need to be anything fancy--in fact, simple is better. Next week, I'll compile the replies and then send it out to everyone who sent a recipe so we can all have another recipe to use. If you already know all the recipes you need to know and/or don't have time to play along, just delete this email and we'll pretend it didn't happen. :)

Love to all of you!
AKH

Family Portrait

2011-07-27T22:10:00.001-05:00

Birthday Festivities

2011-07-25T20:18:00.000-05:00

We had the birthday girl's place all set and ready for her this morning...

After a bath (hence, the wet hair), we ate birthday pancakes and Sara opened her big birthday gift.

This afternoon, I took cupcakes to the birthday girl's class at school, where her sister joined in for a little party.

Silly sisters...

And then, after dinner, we played with Sara Bee's birthday present--a new purple tricycle!

Happy Birthday, Sweet Sara. I am so very thankful that God gave you to us three years ago today!

The Rescue

2011-07-24T12:17:00.003-05:00

We ate dinner at Chickfila in relative peace. The kids downed their nuggets in anticipation of playing on the playground, and when they were done they went skipping for the indoor climbing structure complete with covered twisty slide.

We cleaned off the table, gathered Brooks and his belongings and headed to the playground to watch them play and, hopefully, wear themselves flat out. Upon entering the playground, though, we heard a primal scream that could only be one person: Sara. The Laws of Evolution dictated that she perfect this scream early on, between the need for daycare survival and being a middle child.

I looked up, and there she was at the very top of the structure, howling. Knowing that primal scream = totally irrational, I tried to communicate with her sister. Hallie informed us that Sara had climbed to the top and was now "freaking out" because she could not get down.

There were two ways down: the covered twisty slide or back down the alternating levels that she had climbed. To put it simply, Sara was not interested in either option. She had convinced herself that she was not physically capable of going back down the stairs because they were slightly further apart than she would like, and at that precise moment she also had developed a crippling fear of the slide. So, there she sat, paralyzed.

I couldn't just stand there and listen to my child scream, so I entered the tower of fear. I got about 3 levels up and stopped, not yet realizing just how many levels remained between us. I tried to tell Sara to come down to where I was and I would help her the rest of the way. She continued sobbing, "I can't, Mommy!" I told her that she could, in fact, and sent Hallie up to get her. Hallie came back down empty-handed. On my third or fourth attempt to reason with the unreasonable, I looked around. It was kinda warm in here. Warm and humid. And smelling distinctly like feet, as the playground was a no-shoes zone. My breath started getting short, and my mild claustrophobia kicked into to high gear. I realized that I Must. Get. Out. Now. So I did. I quickly snaked my way back down the levels and out into the blessed, open air. Even Sara's screaming wasn't getting me back in that thing. I was certain I would pass out and be of no use to anyone.

We foolishly attempted to wait her out. We sat at the bottom, occasionally encouraging her to come on. We offered ice cream. It didn't matter. She was not moving.

I started contemplating whether there was any way to get to her outside of the structure. I was prepared to scale it from the outside and hoist her out, but there was no opening. I could just stand there, helplessly looking through the (dirty) plastic at my girl with the puffy face and pitiful expression.

I decided to risk the fate of my husband and sent him into the thing. But about halfway up, I decided he might not fit all the way up and all the way back down, and then wouldn't we be in a world of hurt. So I called him to come back down. I contemplated whether we'd have to take the structure apart. It couldn't be that many nuts and bolts involved, right?

Other children, tired of the Sara-alarm that was continuing to sound, tried to coax Sara down. She was perfectly capable of going back down those silly steps or the slide, as they showed her over and over again. When she showed no sign of acquiescing to logic, they too gave up hope and went on. I heard one little girl sigh and say, "Well, I have to go back to my Nana now..." and then disappear down the dreaded slide.

Some other little girls resorted to calling Sara a baby, which Hallie did not appreciate AT ALL. Hallie took them on, while I worried about exactly how long my stubborn daughter could sit at the top of that tower.

Having exhausted all of my available resources, I did what any sane person would do. I thought of the skinniest, most limber member of our family, and I called him. The conversation went something like this, "Gray? Hi. I don't know where you are, but I need some help."

"Ok. Whatcha need?"

"Well, I kind of need you to come to the Chickfila in Hoover. Sara is stuck at the top of the playground and won't come down. She's been up there about 30 minutes."

Sara wails in the background. Gray chuckles.

"Uh, ok, I'll be right there."

And my knight in shining t-shirt and shorts turned his truck around and rushed to rescue the damsel in distress. He nonchalantly walked into the playground, hoisted himself up the various levels of stairs, got to the top, where Sara held out her little pudgy hands and moaned, "I can't do it, Gway." He picked her up and twisted himself and her until they reached the bottom. A very red-faced, tear-streaked Sara emerged and looked at me with an immediate, "Mommy, can I have my ice cweam now?"

Thank God for little brothers, who make stellar uncles.

Happy Weekend!

2011-07-24T11:48:00.000-05:00

VBS Program

2011-07-15T20:23:00.000-05:00

We attended the Vacation Bible School Family Night on Thursday night at the kids' school. Hallie's class participated in the musical portion of the program, where they sang sweet songs like this...

(Notice the boys behind H who seem to have, um, lost interest?)

By a few songs later, the lack of attention turned to total chaos. Caution: what you are about to see may hurt your ears and make you dizzy.

This video is a gem (despite the shaky camera work due to laughter) for a few reasons:
1. My little performer continues doing the moves in the midst of pandemonium. I'm so proud.
2. I am keeping this video in case either of the boys behind her makes it big. Or ends up in prison. Either way, it'll be nice to remember when...
3. I have absolutely no idea what any of the words to this song are, and I don't think anyone else does either.

I am off to see old friends now (friends of old, not friends who are old...because that would make ME old). But boy do I have a Sara story to tell soon! Stay tuned...

Learning Where We Stand

2011-07-06T23:42:00.001-05:00

I am fortunate to be past the newborn-never-sleeping-I-may-lose-my-mind stage of parenting and into the only-occasional rocking of a teething or sick little one late at night (and losing my mind for altogether different reasons). Tonight is one of those nights. My little buddy is teething and woke up crying. So I snatched the opportunity (or excuse) to go in and rock him back to sleep. I smushed the two of us--me, with him stretching well across my midsection--into the glider in his room and snuggled with him until he was snoring again.

And as I rocked him, I discovered that he talks in his sleep. The cutest little babble in his own language--except for one word: "Arch." He's talking to the dog in his sleep. At least we know who's important around here.

What Consecutive Road Trips Will Do For You...

2011-07-06T08:34:00.001-05:00

Meet our laundry, the eighth wonder of the world. This is WITH us doing several loads of laundry on both road trips.

That poor little hamper. It's positively straining to keep its contents inside. I can almost hear it whimpering.

Occasionally I have witnessed the girls "clean their room" by dumping all misplaced clothing in the laundry hamper, but even that little habit can't account for the Amazing Laundry Explosion that occurs in our laundry room.

Really?

2011-07-05T09:54:00.001-05:00

Just put that apostrophe anywhere.

Regrettably, I did not verify the price of this item. But based on the other merchandise in the store, I doubt it was cheap.

Church in the Park

2011-07-03T13:27:00.000-05:00

Nana and Papa's church had their service in the park this morning. We, of course, had quite the crew on our little corner of the park.

In our effort not to completely disturb everyone around us (at least not the whole service), we read a few books.

We colored.

We snacked.

We played with our cousins.

And terrorized our siblings.

All in all, a good start to the day.

Wrestling Match

2011-07-02T20:58:00.003-05:00

This literally went on for more than 15 minutes. Brooks is so glad to have a boy cousin who doesn't mind being tackled.

S'mores and Backyard Fun

2011-07-02T20:55:00.000-05:00

We ate dinner at Jon and Julie's new (very cute!) house tonight, and the kids had their first s'mores around the fire pit in the backyard.

For Brooks, it was a clothing-optional affair.

Poolside Snack

2011-07-02T20:50:00.000-05:00