Wider than the sky

It's been so long...

2011-06-21T18:45:00.000-04:00

We have been so busy and have had little time for blogging, but with school out and my Reading Endorsement completed, I have a few moments to spare.

We went and visited some "great" people we love! Abuelo and Abuela were very happy to see us! We had a weekend filled with family and friends!

Aiden is actually jumping into the pool with his floaties!

Aiden and daddy are fishing and enjoying the serenity of the lagoon! It has to be the most calm place in PCB!!!

He was happy until...

we let his first fish go!

Aiden and abuelo had a giggle about their matching hats.

Father Chuck, who married us, and his precious wife enjoyed an evening with our silly group.

Aaron and Tico had a staring contest...

Abuela and Uncle Rob also went fishing!

Even the wildlife joined our fun!

We finished our trip with a meal at a great sushi restaurant!!!

"Snowboarding"

2011-01-11T15:43:00.000-05:00

In Georgia, we don't get snow often, but when we do ...we enjoy it! We took our boogie boards from our summer vacay and went sliding down the oh-so-small slope by our house and had fun!

fasting

2011-01-02T19:34:00.001-05:00

I am praying about doing the Daniel Fast. It is 21 days of only eating non-processed food and no meat. I am also going to have to give up my Diet Coke and my daily eggs. Ove the past 2 years, it has been a huge struggle to lose the 50+ pounds from baby #3!!!! The eggs are my daily breakfast!!!! I know that if I mess up, I can always try again. I need to do what Pastor Benny Tate says, "Get rid of your stinky thinking and do a check up from the neck up!"

Day 1

2010-12-30T12:18:00.000-05:00

I want to keep my commitment to myself-to exercise and stay healthy. Today is just as good as good as New Year's Day. So, today is day 1 of a my 90 day journey. I want to finish P90X and run a 10k. My toes end up holding me back, but I will try to keep this bargain!

I've been to the gym to do an hour spin class. Tonight, I look forward to starting day 1 of P90X. It will be a challenge, but I think I need to write this down so that I will be accountable.

Here's to a happy exercise journey:)!!

Santa hat pics

2010-12-22T06:02:00.000-05:00

My oldest wanted a picture in the santa hat after trying to get little guy to smile. Even Ali wanted to do a handprint reindeer after doing little guy's handprints.

Our pictures went from this pouty face...

...to this excited face! I tried to capture his hysterical personality! I don't have quiet children...they are all full of life and talk to everyone. They know no strangers and are so completely different from me and my extreme shyness throughout school. I am so very thankful for each of my precious children!

A late Thanksgiving post!

2010-12-20T09:59:00.000-05:00

I often forget to post, but here is a picture post of our Thanksgiving vacay in PCB with our wonderful family. It was the best visit yet! The kids swam at the beach, ate delicious food, enjoyed a birthday party, and celebrated Thanksgiving with family.

We all enjoyed the beach house. It was steps away from the beach and a great place to have low country boil!

Aiden enjoyed reading with his Grammie and playing with Abuelo!

Grammie and I enjoyed the morning runs! The last morning we chose not to run because it was extremely windy and cold!

A surprise birthday for a 15 year old was fun even when he ended up in the pool!

The beach is so much better when it is deserted during the fall and winter months!

Grampy and Aiden enjoyed each other!

Thanksgiving day was full of good food and family!

He's shoving huge chunks of pineapple into his mouth.

Aiden loved frisbee with his great-uncle Mike-dude!

$1.00 Scarves

2010-12-18T14:26:00.000-05:00

Was it really worth the drive to the Tanger Old Navy store for their $1.00 scarves?!?

I guess so...YES it was! I took Ali and one of her friends and they had fun being 13 year olds!

We bought a few scarves, pj's that were only 6.99, and a few Christmas goodies. We even saw a friend (with no make-up on) who was so funny about our 60 second visit!

Christmas Vacation

2010-12-18T06:01:00.000-05:00

It's here and I'm very excited! My class had a wonderful time decorating cookies, eating yummy food and making cute Christmas scratch-off decorations-kuddos to my room mothers!!!!

Things during my two weeks:

I am looking forward to getting up before the alarm clock every day...knowing it's impossible for me to sleep in on the days I can, hee hee!
I really need to get started on my Me Books for my Kinders. Usually, I have a few pages completed...
NEED TO CLEAN
Read, read, read to the little guy
Enjoy spending time with the big kids
Thank you notes to my precious kinders for the lovely way they remembered me at Christmas
RUN
Call a few friends
Plan for the next few months, because I have one class left for my Reading Endorsement (wooooohooooo). March 22nd here I come!!!!!! No more school for at least a year! Why can't I ever adhere to that statement?
Report Cards

I could keep going! I am also looking forward to an enjoyable Christmas with Erik's terrific family in West Virginia and Maryland. We had a great Thanksgiving with part of his family and will be fortunate to spend time with another part!

Bad Santa!

2010-12-12T18:00:00.000-05:00

While waiting to see Santa, little guy didn't want his picture taken. So, I decided to have fun and take his pic against his will!

The girls didn't find their visit enjoyable! Santa was very crude with them and I am still trying to understand why he said something about them bending over! He also told them that Santa was NOT going to get them an IPad.

Little guy did enjoy his visit with Santa and told him about what he wanted for Christmas.

Late October Pumpkin Patch Visit

2010-12-06T05:12:00.000-05:00

We had so much fun!

Fun at the Rock Ranch!

2010-10-18T11:39:00.001-04:00

We had so much fun at the Rock Ranch this weekend. They had hot air balloons, fall fun, food, and music.

We walked across the pasture instead of riding in a wagon (purely because we had little guy's wagon).

Aiden enjoyed everything and especially loved these steers!

The big kids ran off and we stayed to jump on the big pillow.

The corn house was not his favorite and he didn't stay long!

I really don't know what Ali thought she was doing, but she ended up in tons of giggles!

No matter when I took a pic of this, Aaron covered all others to only have a shot of himself ;)

This slide was fun!

This one was even better!

The boys really enjoyed moving sand!

Here he is running like the wind!

He ran all the way to these horses!!!

We are in tiny town! This was a big hit with all children! It's a miniture town with a main street!

Aiden and daddy wouldn't wait for the family car...so daddy pushed him around the entire track!

Thank goodness he and the other tots won't be driving anytime soon!

It's always fun to see hot air balloons!

He looooovvvveeeedddd the horses and chose this dark brown one. It was a long wait and I went into teacher mode by gently suggesting that two little ones had to go to the end of the line to wait their turn. The family in front of me agreed, but the ladies behind me did not. It always surprises me how some feel it's okay to break the rules...

The train was also a very long wait. Daddy let me take Aiden to visit the animals and change Aiden's diaper while he held our place in line.

A pretty view from the train.

The corn maze was too long for me!

Fun at the old barn.

These lashes are beautiful, just like him! No nap and by 5:15 he was out!

Sitting at Home

2010-09-28T10:10:00.000-04:00

Today I'm sitting at home with little guy because he's sick. I thought he had a simple cold, but no, he had an ear infection. He now dislikes medicine and runs when he knows it's time! This is the second time he's had medicine from the doctor and we've been fortunate to only have very little illness. It's just so sad to see him feel horrible and have very little control in helping him! I am thinking that being a stay at home mom would be a wonderful situation for little guy and me! I hope daddy reads this and agrees ;)!!!

Here is a picture of him meeting a famous character...

It's been a while...

2010-09-26T14:53:00.006-04:00

I really miss updating the blog, but school, teaching, and being a parent is taking up much of my time. I am still here, just extremely busy! Here are a few photos of a summer outing with little guy. We visited Dausett Trails, which is a place he loves.

Funny things!

2010-06-25T07:28:00.002-04:00

This morning little guy kept asking me for candy...or so I thought! When I said, "Not in the morning." Then he says "Mommy?" Of course!!!! I get it!!!! He was saying "Sandi!" He's also been calling his daddy "Erik" and I really don't ever remember the older ones doing this. His little personality is precious and I hope that I think the same in about 10 years!

Daily happenings

2010-06-21T17:25:00.007-04:00

Here are a few picks of the little one!

Our little vacay souveneir...

Big brother chasing little brother...doesn't always turn out well, but it did today!

Birthdays

2010-06-20T06:17:00.000-04:00

Now's the time I go into birthday mode. I have one in July, September, and November. July-tractor; September-scavenger/camp-out; and November-paint ball or bowling. I have to get it prepared or in the works now because of how stressed I'll be with teaching and my night class for my Reading Endorsement! I hope I can get it all done and make everyone happy!

Vacay 2010

2010-06-14T17:15:00.006-04:00

We visited Salvo, NC for the first time. We've stayed in Avon and Waves before. Salvo is in between them. We had wonderful weather and a beautiful rental house. I could have lived there! I even lost weight from the 4 flights of stairs I had to climb to get to the main level of the house. We went swimming, walked for ice cream each day, enjoyed great food, and lounged around a beautiful HEATED pool! It's just the most peaceful place on earth to vacation at! We even brought a fluffy souvenir back.

Little guy is helping daddy get ready for the beach vacation.

Here is our first trek to the Salvo beach.

We were at marker 41 (very important to remember, as everything is identified throughout the islands by this system).

Ali brought her wonderful friend again and they are the best of friends!

Little guy wasn't sure of this experience at first, but he grew more confident as the days passed.

I enjoyed these girls (even though mine...is making me GRAY)!

I should not be allowed near any living seafood! I caught him and seriously thought that I might keep him as an appetizer!

Here are the boys playing in our beautiful pool! This is where the kids were when they weren't in the ocean, at the ice cream store, in the game room, eating, or shopping.

These girls were so funny! This is a picture they wanted me to take of them! They tried to write in the sand and get a pic, but daddy or little guy messed it up every time!

Here is our view of the ocean from our top deck!

Little guy's first time this year getting ready to go swimming. What an ordeal!?!?!

Our house is the first one on the right. We walked a short distance to the beach entrance.

This is little guy's reaction when an abandoned fluff ball adopted him. He hitched a ride to GA and now is daily carried and rocked by little guy! We've appropriately named him...Salvo.

Our evening trip to have a camp fire at the beach and do a little shark fishing!

Is this lotus pose?

Me and my chicks sporting local apparel (yes, I know my grammar's a bit off here)!

Little guy loves his drammie!

We went back to Manteo to dig for fossils. The chickas insisted! You can't see the temper tantrum little guy had because I was too flustered to take pics, but WHEW!!!! I never lost my cool and we haven't had another one yet. We didn't see Andy Griffith (he lives here), but we'll visit again and maybe have better luck next time!

We took a trip to another beach, but one you could drive on! We walked on the boardwalk while the boys rode in the truck to the spot. Grampy found a great area for us to enjoy and use our boogie boards.

Little guy sized board!

Can we think...Point Break...haha:)

It doesn't look like I've lost any weight, but I have...I guess I'll keep working on it!!

Shells were a big hit towards the end! The current was so strong that we could barelyjump waves or boogie board.

Zoo Visit

2010-04-07T20:03:00.006-04:00

Our visit to the zoo, began uphill! It was rather cold that day, but loads of fun!

We enjoyed many different kinds of birds.

Little guy made new friends.

He was able to see many of the animals he's read about in books.

We took him on the train. What an exciting time!

Callaway Gardens

2010-02-28T16:17:00.004-05:00

This was the last weekend of free admission to Callaway Gardens.

Little guy was very excited to see the butterflies inside the butterfly center.

I get smooches all of the time now! They're preceded by "Mama NEED!"

He loved that the butterflies were eating bananas and oranges.

He enjoyed an encounter with a ladybug and surprisingly it lived!

Daddy and little guy had fun looking around at all of the different varieties!

These faces were seen many times as he looked around!

Don't ask; don't tell should always remain no matter the species!

We enjoyed walking the trails and talking about everything and nothing at all!

We had so much fun!

Precious life

2010-02-23T21:49:00.002-05:00

Life is so very precious and can be gone in an instant. When you get that phone call. You know the one telling you there's been an accident. At first, nothing, then disbelief and finally a flood of emotion.

That's the phone call I received at school today. I HAD to take the phone call our office secretary told me over the intercom system. I walked down the hall and my husband is on the other line. Two seconds, me saying hello, and he says something has happened. My thoughts go to my kids immediately! No, he tells me my sister has had a terrible accident.

I walk back and gather my things, trying to figure out who's getting the kids and the tears are flowing. Take my evening class assignments to my friend to turn in and end up in prayer with her. Thank you God for great friends! Then go wait in the office for the big E to get me. End up in prayer with another wonderful person and tears flow again!

I leave for the trip to Atlanta where she's been life-flighted and arrive to find my vibrant sis on a hospital bed helpless. She tells me, while I stroke her like I would little guy to soothe him, how a heartless person weaved into her lane hitting her and then drove away. HIT and RUN! She swerves and rolls the suv into a tree. She lands into the passenger side ceiling covered in dirt, glass, and debris. The tree pushes the driver door into the driver seat in a tangled mess of metal. Not wearing her seatbelt has literally saved her life today!

All doors lock on impact and the EMTs and others struggle to get her out. Finally the smash the windows and work on getting her to the helicopter. They wash the glass out of her eye and put her into the mummy bag. She tells them to get her Coach bag (just think of me rolling my eyes right now). She arrives at the hospital and is washed up and broken arm is set, CAT scan done, and x-rays taken. She's swelling and freezing. They finally move her to a room only to cath her-owwwww! I had to explain that the cath doesn't hurt nearly as bad as she will after the swelling goes down. I am with her until the morphine kicks in.

WHAT A DAY! She is going to be okay with some swelling and dental work to be done. Shame, Shame, SHAME on hit and runs!!!!

I didn't call her last night because of fatigue and I feel very bad!!!! Just give your loved ones a hug/call and let them know how much they mean to you!

Valentine's Day

2010-02-20T06:53:00.003-05:00

Here is a cute idea that I've been doing for my kinders for about 4 years. They always get so excited to see their finished Valentine box! I even have one!

It's too bad that we had a snow day instead of a Valentine's Day party!

My letter to the chairman of the committee...

2010-02-19T13:37:00.002-05:00

I feel that BIG GOVERNMENT needs to listen to it's people!!!! That's what our founding fathers believed and tried to structure.

I wrote an email to one of our Senators designing and introducing a teacher merit pay bill. I did leave my name and contact info at the end (which I deleted here). I didn't receive a response until I over-loaded emails to other reps and their assistants! Here is my OPINION:

Dear Mr. Chairman,

I am sending this email concerning SB 386. I am very curious why it is being introduced when there are unanswered questions about implementation. I am an educator of nine years and currently hold a Master's Degree of Education. I love learning and immerse myself in learning every chance I can. Just this week, I started my first class for a Reading Endorsement and last year finished my Gifted Endorsement. The endorsements do not increase my salary, but do assist me in learning new methods in which to facilitate learning.

I do not feel that SB 386 is the answer to improving education. I have only taught for nine years, but have experienced very different students with very different developmental rates. As an educator, I give my all in and out of the classroom. Even during our January furloughed days, a colleague and I traveled through three states, at our expense, to attend a Whole Brain Teaching conference. Teachers work very hard to make a difference! Sometimes the standards are developmentally out of the reach of some students. That doesn't mean they did not show growth, it just means that they didn't reach the standard. Just yesterday, we had a celebration in our class of one student's great achievement. That student is not meeting the standard, but did work hard to master something that was very developmentally difficult for the student.

I hope that before SB 386 is introduced, it is completed with no unanswered questions! I will remain on my salary schedule because I work hard. I could not work any harder even if merit pay was offered to me. I love and enjoy going to work and facilitating learning each day! The students' success is such a joy and is celebrated in our room by all, not because of merit pay!

I would welcome a discussion with you and/or your committee. I am extremely interested in this bill and need to understand all of it. Thank you for your precious time and have a wonderful weekend.

Sincerely,

Sandra

Kindergarten Teacher

Snow in GA

2010-02-19T13:07:00.002-05:00

We had a few inches of snow that closed our schools. So, while I was recovering from pink eye, strep, and a sinus infection, we enjoyed the COLD temps and beautiful snow.

Little guy was not feeling well, but was fascinated.

This was his expression when we came inside. He loves being outside!!

Tea Party Express and other thoughts

2010-01-23T18:26:00.004-05:00

I am appalled by the term "tea baggers" and wish that people who have no other argument would stop the name calling. I'm actually looking forward to what happens through peaceful protest in a country where that freedom is still guaranteed!

I'm also concerned that many people are no longer supporting the war on terrorism now, though they supported it September 11, 2001 and will cry for it if anything like 9/11 ever happens again! I remember exactly what I was doing the moment I heard about it. I was a first year teacher involved in a phonics lesson. What support our brave men and women had! I love my country, the constitution, and the troops who willingly give their everything for us!

I can see the change rippling through our wonderful country. I hope that Brown and other politicians remember that they are elected by the people in a country where their choices directly affect the people who elect them!

A Good Week!

2010-01-16T06:57:00.003-05:00

It's been a good week-not just good days! It was the first full week of school and we made the most of it! Everyday showed progress at school and we are now in WBT mode! The Smart board is working properly and my student-teacher seems WONDERFUL! I've been giving everything to God in prayer which has been difficult for me! I don't know why it's so hard to do that, but I'm a big, fat worrywart!!! It's almost like a Scarlett O'Hara kind of attitude.

I think 2010 has had a wonderful start for me! I know that it will continue! Inside, I'm humming a little old time Baptist hymn. I'd be singing it, except I don't know all the words:)

Whole Brain Teaching

2010-01-10T08:04:00.003-05:00

Before getting into what it is, I must write that I forgot that I even owned a camera. I was focused on portion control and exercise! A colleague and I ventured 3 states away to attend this conference. What great fun we had!!!

WBT is a method of teaching to increase student engagement and decrease student disruptions! It also takes learning to the next level for students!

I took my 2 teacher furlough days and turned them into professional learning! Yes, I am someone who loves to improve and find great methods to keep students learning!!! So instead of a mini vacay after the Christmas break, I went to school and it was AWESOME--oh yeah!!

I was using a small component of it before, but now I'm incorporating it into my classroom and teaching!!! I am very excited by it and it seems to have started a fire of engagement in my room!

****Oh, I got a very splendid gift from one of my families...a smart board! It's dual user and 2 students can use it at the same time--a mighty "Oh Yeah!" I am over-whelmed by the generosity!!!! I think (wink, wink) it's because they have 2 more little ones coming up! It's going up this week and I cannot wait until the students can get their hands on that thing!!!!****

New Years Eve

2010-01-10T07:58:00.004-05:00

A friend of mine invited us to a NYE party, but we had sitter issues and I decided to go for a couple hours. Here we are momentarily pausing giggles and laughter to pose!

I spent a couple of hours with great friends before venturing home to be with my favorite people!

After Christmas!

2010-01-10T07:47:00.003-05:00

After the boys came back from the Bass Pro Shop, the younger boys stayed in their fort! We're traveling to see it!
Can you find Waldo? They spent so much time here that we rarely saw them!!!

Little guy enjoyed his time outside! He loves the outdoors!

Here's little guy and grampa. I think one day they'll be best buds!

Holidays

2010-01-10T07:30:00.004-05:00

Our Christmas was very special this year! Both of our extended families came to celebrate with us! Great-grandparents, grandparents, parents, brothers and sisters came to our home. I feel bad because I have no pictures of much of my family and only video of Christmas morning.

However here are a few pics that I did snap!

This was Christmas Eve night after the kiddos went to bed!

This was my official spot for the holidays! I rarely made it out of the kitchen and it was wonderful!

We're watching The Polar Express while enjoying eggnog and hot cocoa.

Erik's uncle and grandfather joined us Christmas Eve for dinner. Erik's dad, mom, and younger brother joined us for the week:)

Little guy loves his great uncle!

Hopefully, this will begin a new tradition! Where we get together around the holidays to spend time together!
We visited a local park to walk through the lighted displays.

My husband IS handy!

2009-12-23T00:18:00.001-05:00

Have you ever thought "pulease" when your husband said "Oh, I can make THAT!"????? Yep, that's me. I even told my class one year and they ratted me out! Anyway, on to the end...he DID make it!!! I couldn't post it at the beginning of the month because of the surprise factor for our visiting family! LOVE IT!!!! Thanks bunches and bunches honey!!!

Partied Out!

2009-12-23T00:13:00.002-05:00

It seems like I've partied for days, but really it's only been a couple of parties that we've attended. I just really "enjoy" the annual company Christmas parties!!! It's so much fun to sit next to people you don't know and have a three hour dinner! It was fun this year because I just started talking to anyone who would listen!! I sat in on conversations of others and made all kinds of comments. I figured, hey, I'll only see them once a year...maybe ;-)

Blessings

2009-12-21T09:12:00.002-05:00

I know that this year has been one of turmoil in most of American's lives, but I am feeling very blessed. I'm not bragging, I'm just overwhelmed sometimes by how I once thought I didn't have enough. Now, I look at life and am so grateful for every little thing! It's not perfect, but neither am I! I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year!

Lights...Cameras...Action!

2009-12-18T17:40:00.005-05:00

Have you ever thought your life has been portrayed on the big screen? Me-yes, it has! Why on earth was it "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" instead of something like "Little House on the Prairie" or "The Andy Griffith Show" or even "Growing Pains"...I reached this train of thought last night during a charity photo shoot with the same wonderful girl who took our family photos this fall. Little guy is screaming and running around like George of the Jungle. The two big ones are teenagers---need I say more (I could write a BOOK)! Aside from inflated teen egos and a FULL blown-100%-17 month old boy, we got some good pictures.

Busy bee!

2009-12-15T23:54:00.005-05:00

I am constantly on the go during this time of the year! Well it's no surprise that the big E wanted something special whipped up for his upcoming swearing in at the city council meeting/council Christmas party. So, I decided to be a little sarcastic and really make a creation of something that irritates me = a water tower cake.

It's the water tower that irritates me...not the cake. What a waste!!! One citizen said, "Look it blends in with the sky." Ugh!

Well, here it is :)

I made dirt cake that is topped with dyed coconut. I hot glued cake/dowel rods and popsicle sticks together as the base. Then, baked two very small cakes and smushed them together with icing after slicing the rounded tops off to use as the bottom and top of the water tower tank. I used food coloring to paint the sticks and color the icing. I had the big E print the city logo and I laminated it. Then, stuck the logo on with icing as well. It was so much fun! Next year, I'll modify it by attaching the remainder of what the city owes on it ;-)

4 wheelers and Santa Bobbers

2009-12-02T05:38:00.005-05:00

4 wheelers and Santa bobbers have ONE thing in common...The Bass Pro Shop!

We had a blast! Here Aiden is waiting to see Santa. He's playing with a decoration and loves touching it.

Moments after playing with the nutcracker, he enjoys his visit with Santa! This has to be my favorite Santa picture ever! Santa kept smiling and Aiden just kept getting louder!!!!! See his hands...that's his praying hands!!!! Too funny!

Even she tried to sooth him with a candy cane...that was a no go!

I was disappointed with the crafts. They were great crafts, but executed ALL wrong. I DON'T want a craft that Santa's elves make!!! I WANT a craft that my little elves make. I need to be in charge of Bass Pro crafts for the holiday season!

This guy waited patiently for someone to play checkers.

It was a good trip and we'll return next year, but I think I'm going to have to let go of the craft control!

Cowboys and Hair Cuts

2009-11-28T09:27:00.002-05:00

My little cowboy usually cheeses for the camera, but declined today! He was insistent on watching our Christmas train.

Little guy's hair grows very quickly. Here is the 4th haircut he's had. Ms. L had to give him his first lollipop to get him to sit semi-still.

Hanging of the Greens

2009-11-28T09:18:00.002-05:00

We decided (at the last minute) to go to the Hanging of the Greens. It was was and COLD. Santa even flew into the event in a helicopter.

Little guy didn't really like the Grinch, but he loved Frosty.

We went to Elf Training School and earned our ears and certificate!

We had a good time!

Musician????

2009-11-24T10:50:00.004-05:00

He seems to really enjoy this keyboard. He stands up and plays with his feet. If you look closely, you can see the tip of his tongue...utter concentration!

School Christmas Tree

2009-11-23T09:37:00.005-05:00

I have been diligently working on ornaments for our school Christmas tree. The school's in our county decorate one every year and are on display at the Welcome Center. This year we came up with the theme "A Differentiated Christmas." Differentiating is our buzzword and really something good. Under the tree, student work is the "gift" of differentiation.

Each of the 25 ornaments holds two pictures of differentiated instruction. Then the fabric is attached with a brief explanation of the pictures. It was WORK!

Crayon garland = hard work!

I had to wrap it around something...a diet coke bottle worked wonders. Here is 36 feet of twine, crayons, and hot glue!

All by myself...

2009-11-21T05:39:00.002-05:00

This weekend little guy and I are solo! It's probably the first time it's ever happened. We're going to shop and hit the sushi bar to visit our favorite chef! We'll probably go running, if the weather is nice and just play outside. I hope he's ready!

I could almost hear the crowd...

2009-11-14T23:50:00.003-05:00

I sent Erik on a wild goose chase to find a book that I wanted to use in my school evaluation. He not only brought the book I wanted but a few more for me to read. One was "Do the Right Thing." He also casually talked about the author having a book signing. I have been watching Huckabee on Saturday evenings and really register with his views. So, I was extremely excited to go to the book signing!

It was much like a herd of cattle being prodded to be branded, but I enjoyed shaking his hand and still want to help with his "upcoming" 2012 race to the White House.

Family visit

2009-11-14T23:36:00.004-05:00

We have been hounded by Ali and Aaron to visit Gme and Gpa for 2 months. So, we planned a short, weekend excursion to PCB during the ironman. The weather was perfect and we scooted home before Ida arrived!

We went to St. Andrew's Park and let little guy play at the beach while the big kids saw a movie with Gma.
A little boy after Gpa's heart!

No bathing suit, but the water was splendid! We let him splash and have a great time!

Thanks for the future hint grammie Karen----I already enjoy the ocean!

Little guy found his first shell and mommy is keeping it forever.

We had to watch out for these evil creatures!

A bath after a long day!

Enjoying time with my Gme, oops, mi abuela.

Apple orchard

2009-10-25T08:53:00.005-04:00

We decided to take a trip to Elijay to see the leaves and enjoy the day. I can't believe I didn't get any pictures of the beautiful leaves! They were pretty!

Aiden and daddy were ahead of us walking through the crowd to get to the orchard.

Ali and I were COLD! I have on a shirt, sweater, and jacket. I even checked the weather which said it was going to be 55 degrees----no it was like 48! At least Aiden had on warm clothes!

Aiden enjoyed running around more than the apples.

He had so much fun!

She decided to pose for us:)

We stayed for the pig race which was rather enlightening. I have made the decision not to take the family to live there based on the behavior of these people involved with the pig race;)

Ali popped into this shot!

And into this one!

Aiden was absolutely fascinated with the stuffed bear! I had to move him away from it so that other little boys and girls could see him.

We've decided to try a different orchard next year and go a week or two earlier. We have some great apples and tried different goodies made with apples. The trip was great until I ate some leftovers and got food poisoning. I was so glad that we were at home in time for this!

The Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-24T07:50:00.004-04:00

We decided a last minute trip to a pumpkin patch was in order for our last day of Fall Break! Monday was one of my furlough days and I wanted to have a little fun with the children. We invited some friends and enjoyed watching the kids play and pick their own pumpkin off the vine! Aaron decided not to go because he was pouting. So, we left Mr. Grumpy at home to study!

Little guy enjoyed all of the pumpkins! He ran around and kept me busy.

He had to touch every thing.

I'm trying to rip this one from the vine while little guy really wants to "help."

My friend cracks me up! She's saying that we shouldn't show her husband these pics because the little girl is only 3 years old!

Finally, he has picked a pumpkin and now for the hayride!

A little bouncing...

until we board the trailer for the hayride (minus the hay?!?).

Daddy's favorite picture!

My favorite picture! The goat has his entire head in the hay while he's eating.

Sweet girl...she wanted a picture with her mama.

So much fun!

He loved sticking his tongue out!

Inside fun!

2009-10-16T05:44:00.005-04:00

Since it has rained for most of our fall break, we decided instead of floating away, we would play in the ottoman. Little guy has deemed this the best play area after you take all of your toys out of the toy box.

When I said "No sir, you may not run in the ottoman," he simply picked at the 100% Boy that's on his onesie.
Our new favorite face!

A side note: We listened to him giggle himself to sleep last night. It was absolutely the most precious thing he's ever done (except for when he repeats "I love you")! Erik and I were giggling about something while rocking him and I guess he couldn't help himself:-)

New creations

2009-10-16T05:36:00.002-04:00

Somehow, I decided I wanted to create the dessert that is pictured on the front of the Southern Living magazine. These pumpkins were intended for our sitters, but one was out of town and it wouldn't be proper to only give one a treat. So, the children really enjoyed these!

I couldn't believe how much little guy ate! I did take the caramel out of it before he could put it in his mouth!

Natural outdoorsman

2009-10-16T05:27:00.003-04:00

Little guy decided to run around while we were trying to check out the camping gear. He loves the tent!

Hogan for Milner

2009-10-16T05:17:00.002-04:00

Erik began his run for the city council in late September and is now councilman elect! We organized a meet and greet for the residents. A great time was had by all.

He received a little free advertising;)!

He was able to meet and discuss issues.

A dear, dear friend stayed with us the entire 3 hours. She and her children are fantastic! Thanks Teresa!

Thank you for all of the support and kind words!

Procrastination

2009-10-08T22:33:00.005-04:00

As Aaron is trying to complete his project that he's known about for two weeks, I have decided to quit assisting him and update the blog:)

We went to Aiden's friend's birthday party. Aiden had a blast and loved running around. This is one of my favorite picture's of the day.

Daddy and Aiden played with a golf ball most of the party.

We enjoyed going to Aaron's track meet.

Aaron worked very hard to get his time down (after he decided to get in the mud and ruin his running shoes before he even ran). He did manage to get his time down with encouragement from a great teammate! He and his teammates are awesome!

I'm so glad that this little guy loves us!

This carefree look isn't complete without these glasses!

No blog post is complete without something about our tween diva! She and her awesome gal pal are posing. These girls are awesome and rule!!!!

New hiding place

2009-09-20T18:31:00.003-04:00

Little guy has found a new place to hide and explore.

If you look closely, you can see his top tooth.

He is reading a book. It's his favorite thing to do! It warms my heart:)

Buggython

2009-09-19T10:21:00.004-04:00

Well, we woke up around 4:40 am to a playful baby Aiden. He helped us get ready for the Buggython. We played, weighed in, made breakfast, and dressed for the race. When we arrived, my friend Teresa was waiting and we checked in.

Then we waited with Carrie (another friend) until the start of the race. I finished 3rd in my age group and Carrie placed 2nd overall. It was great. Aaron's time was around 27 minutes :) and I won't mention mine...I wanted to be under 30 and was just a little over:( Erik finished in 43 minutes. We had a great time (even though Ali decided against running it). She was our official photographer.

Here we are at the finish!

Track Meet

2009-09-12T09:22:00.002-04:00

Aaron is at a track meet in Athens, Georgia today. I stayed at home with little guy, while daddy cheered Aaron on! He had a great time running and cheering for his team!

Four

2009-09-11T06:59:00.001-04:00

Little guy officially has four teeth. He's been masquerading as a hillbilly for a month or more:) His chompers are quite impressive when he's chomping on you;)

A wonderful visit

2009-09-10T23:04:00.005-04:00

We had a wonderful visit with Gramme over Labor Day weekend.

Aiden enjoyed his afternoon couch cushions and pillow fun.

Ali's helping this "funny guy." It was hysterical to watch her experience this. We're all cracking up. We enjoyed Pemberton Market after our "free" visit to the Coke factory!

Little guy is trying his best to get the camera, but still does his "cheese" pose.

Our visit to the Coke factory was great! The children loved it and we enjoyed being a family! I just miss how the old coke bottles would travel over you as you wandered through the old coke factory.

This bear was the best! He was funny and interactive! Aiden adores all things overly big and interested in him! So the bear was a big hit with him.

Aiden loves his Gramme!

Family Pictures

2009-08-15T08:33:00.006-04:00

We've waited and thought about family pictures for a while. A local photographer took these. She also took the dance photos when Ali and Aaron were in dance. She's the sister-in-law of one of my very dear and great friends and her little girl is about a month younger than little guy. I have bragged on her about our dance photos and now I have bragged about these photos so much in the past 12 hours! I love all of our pics and they're more natural settings!!!

I have tried to get this pout for a couple of months! I love it!!!

I am amazed at this picture!

He's hanging onto the bars and daddy is right there waiting to catch him:)

Our beautiful three children! They are wonderful!

Just had to put this one in!

Daddy and Mommy

These kids are beautiful!

Finally, a wonderful family photo!

Update on our daily activities

2009-07-26T16:01:00.003-04:00

We went on a playdate with half of the Lewis family. We had a wonderful time and the weather cooperated! April's boys are sweet children and great to be around!

This is what Aiden wanted to do on our trip to Dauset Trails. My camera battery ran out of steam and my friend, April, got better pictures.

This was not what he wanted to do.

Here are all of the boys ready for the day:)

When at home, I can't seem to get him out of his slippers.

He's also climbing on everything!

Grocery Deals

2009-07-26T15:24:00.003-04:00

I don't know why I find such joy and satisfaction out of my savings at the grocery store(s). Today we went to 3 stores. This is a strategic maneuver to optimize my savings. I wake on Sunday morning to go through the weekly circulars, match the coupons needed and go through the fridge and cabinet (my pantry).

First, we stopped by Publix for the Sunday paper and the penny item. The penny item pays for the paper. Then, we shopped at Kroger and Ingles. I spent a total of $86.31 and saved $56.22. There are 41 items. It's awesome and it feels great to look at what you payed opposed to what you could have payed. The only thing missing from my list was more fruit. I'll get that later when the stores put out more (from the Saturday shoppers).

This is the 3rd time we've done this and it seems to get easier each time.

Milestones

2009-07-16T20:52:00.002-04:00

So, Aiden is now a year old and had his visit with our wonderful Pediatrician. He was 69th %tile in weight, 79th %tile in height, and 89th %tile for head circumference. He's blowing Ali and Aaron out of the water!!!!! He didn't do well with his shots, but rearranged all of Dr. Lee's furniture. Still nursing and no teeth.

He's now climbing onto the furniture...GREAT! He always wants to be outside or in Ali's room (if her door is left open). He's enjoying his jogging stroller (as much as I am)! He is developing a great sense of humor and will hand me things if I ask and point. He hates his bibs and pulls them off. Also, he loves to drink out of straws and enjoys a popsicle every evening. Everything is a phone and he actually will talk and then wait for a response----VERY funny! I have noticed that he can mimic, but is selective (or stubborn) so I've heard MAMA only a handful of times.

Birthday Celebration

2009-07-11T16:53:00.008-04:00

The yard before guests...

The banner with his monthly pictures. One for each month of his life!
Here are the balls.
Aiden loved watching the bubbles!
Where o where has my little dog gone...
Aiden and his buddy, Gabe, discussing the benefits of shovels in a sandbox.
Awwww, Abigail and her daddy
The swing set was a big hit!

Miss Ashley takes Aiden for a slide.

Aiden was so confused about this.

Gabe and Aiden
We had a lot of help opening gifts!

Leaves, oh, the leaves we have to pick up!
I think we all had a wonderful time!

First Birthday!

2009-07-10T22:47:00.002-04:00

Aiden's first birthday was today. We enjoyed the day with a visit from his great-grandparents. We played and prepared for his party tomorrow. Then, we had dinner outside. We had a grilled chicken salad with avocado dressing and had cupcakes (Ali and I shared one). Aiden decided it would be so much fun to squish the cupcake into pieces until he realized that he couldn't get it off of his hands.

He listened in wonder to Happy Birthday to You.

Great summer trip with Gpa and Gme!

2009-07-10T10:09:00.011-04:00

We visited Erik's grandparents. They are wonderful and enjoyed spending time with the children. Everyone had a great time!
Fun with Gpa

Geronimo!
I did bring home some jewelry!!! She's so sweet!

Here they are on the karaoke machine. It was fun to listen to everyone...even Erik:)

My two older captains! They look so serious and ready. I think Gpa can teach them how to drive, too. He has a great reservoir of patience.

The two divas of the trip!

He eventually fell asleep and didn't mind the pfd.

He started to enjoy the water, but it was salty. He kept licking his lips.

Here are the snorklers! What fun it is. Shell Island is almost magical (except when too many party goers arrive for the 4th.

He hates the pfd.

Captain Aiden

Lunch at Pineapple Willy's

Look at the love and adoration!

Aaron and Ali are enjoying the Pier Park festivities.

Aiden's first carousel ride. He was not impressed because of the loud music. He enjoyed the first part but every pass by the speaker was traumatic.

Ali and Gme are dancing in the HEAT.

We're all enjoying a lunch at Margaritaville!

Enjoying the summer!

2009-06-30T09:16:00.005-04:00

These are the balls for Aiden's 1st birthday party. They were cheap gifts for the children coming to the party and better than a bunch of candy. I was very happy to find something like this instead of goody bags! I thought that I could throw them in the yard before the party and then the guests could take one as they leave. Hope it works!!!!

He was so happy and overwhelmed!

His new thing is for me to hold him over the balls and make him kick them!

Little bambam is rearranging my furniture. It's so funny to watch for the first time. Now, I'm saying "No, no!"
He's feeling accomplished. Then, he went to play with his wagon.

Now, instead of swinging, we play with the swings.

We're on the horse swing. It's his new favorite swing.

This was a picture I snapped of him before the OBX trip. As you can plainly see, he's sucking on his bottom lip and not the top. I was very surprised, because many days I only see his bottom lip.

Family Fun!

2009-06-27T23:06:00.003-04:00

We had a great family fun destination...The Rock Ranch. It was their Celebrate America celebration. This was the 10 year anniversary. Well, I usually have a camera attached at my fingertips, but due to craziness with birthday parties (that Ali just HAD to attend-social butterfly), I left it at home. My niece, Kayla, saved the day with her camera!

We enjoyed walking around, eating funnelcakes (I only sniffed them-0 ww points), listened to brother/sister fights---oops, conversations, watched fireworks, listened to gospel music, etc. There was too much to list. It was hot, but so much fun! Aiden was such a wonderful baby! I even got to meet one of my blogger friends. Her son's birthday is the day after Aiden's. Great to meet you April!

Anyway, we had a lot of fun! I think it's a great (and priced great) family outing.

It was so hot!!!!

Aaron is jumping on a "big pillow!"

My niece and nephew enjoyed this family outing, too!

All four were waiting to ride pedal cars. The girls loved it and the boys, oh well.

Our trusty wagon is a fantastic magnet for weary travelers! Even little fellows who are the same age as Aiden. My friend, April, has a wonderful pic of the two boys together!

This was a tunnel slide going under the ground! Too cool!

Yes, she is on a toddler toy and she gets on it every time we come to this celebration. It's a cool toy!

Our trip to the Outerbanks!!!!!

2009-06-23T15:06:00.014-04:00

We had a wonderful time (minus some tween arguments) at OBX! We took trips to the beach, light house, and Kill Devil Hills. Fishing was a high priority activity, along with boogie boarding, eating, swimming, and walking. I posted so many pictures. They are not in order because of the number of them and I have Aiden walking around me pushing my computer chair.

Aaron is surf fishing. It is so much fun! All of the big boys did it and so did I!
Aaron is walking along the boardwalk of the Bodie (pronounced body) Lighthouse. At the end is a deck and magnificent veiw!
This is how Aiden spent most of his trip! This wagon was a lifesavor! My back gave out after holding him walking over dunes and a long run/walk.
Here we are minus Gramme (she's taking the pic), Carl Sr., and Carl Jr.
The Bodie lighthouse was beautiful and about to undergo a 2 year reno. We met the son of the last lighthouse keeper: John Gaskill. His father was Vernon Gaskill. It was a beautiful day!
Here my honey is surf fishing. This was so much fun!
While he was fishing, I came upon DNR and a turtle nest made the night before. It's so much fun. The Logerhead turtle does a breaststroke (below in the picture).

He caught 6-7 of these croaker fish. They really croak! We also caught so many hermit crabs. Some were smaller than rice. They were attached to seaweed.
Here are two pics showing the empty beach on our fishing excursion. I am getting depressed thinking about it. I would love living there, except that I would never be able to straighten my mess of wavy hair.

Gramme is carrying a sleepy baby.
This was a calm evening.
The seagulls fascinated Aiden.
Carl and the girls. Aaron was recovering from a boogie board fight;)
Love my guys!
We're off to see the wizard...actually we were going to the beach (2 -3 minute walk).

Here we are at Kill Devil Hills. This dune was the site of the Wright Brothers first heavier-than-air flight in December 1903. We climbed to the top to visit the Wright Brothers Memorial which is visible for miles.

It was a very long winding way to the top!

This is the hazy, but beautiful view from the top!

Before we arrived at the beach house, we stopped to enjoy our picnic lunch at a beautiful rest area. We enjoyed it!

We went to Manteo for a graveyard adventure (I was the winner;), wonderful sandwiches, fossils, and fish.

Aiden enjoyed his first bite of a pickle!!!! He wouldn't stop eating them!

We also enjoyed our pool at the house!

Aiden really loved our bed!

Duke also enjoyed the beach!

Boys digging for sand fleas while grampy fishes.

Gramme and Aiden
The boys
I love his excitement!
Barely saw that top lip the entire vacay!
The girls
First beach trip

Best of friends:)
A fitting end to our trip! Notice Aaron holding his nose because he is under the apes toosh! He's histerical sometimes!

Wagon for the beach!

2009-06-08T19:19:00.003-04:00

We were concerned with how to keep Aiden occupied at the beach. I think we are on the right track. Plus, it's his birthday gift. Here he is enjoying it!

He loves to push it around the living room!

Aaron and Ali really enjoy it too! They love to pull him in the wagon.

I just don't think he wants to share it with Duke.

Here is our garden now. The tomatoes are getting ready to become my first tomato sandwich of the summer!!! I'm so excited!

Frosty Monster

2009-06-08T19:12:00.003-04:00

I didn't realize I had created a frosty monster! One who adores all things frozen and yummy! If he hears the wrapper of a popsicle, he races toward you. Well today, we enjoyed very small frosty's from Wendy's. Here is the frosty monster!

No teeth yet, but he is very cranky and chewing on everything!

Day of Firsts!

2009-05-30T17:13:00.004-04:00

My sweet boy had his first haircut Thursday! I missed it because I am on the committee doing our school interviews. He couldn't push his hair out of his eyes and it was beginning to bother him.

Here's a before shot.

Here's an after shot.

Pssst! Grammie...please stop reading now, unless you can stand what he has already done.

Another first for Aiden is . . . he took two steps unaided by me or a piece of furniture!!! We tried to get the video camera out to record it, but he was scared by our squeals!

Feeling great!

2009-05-17T06:19:00.002-04:00

Although I haven't been losing the weight like I really wanted to and life is living up to Murphy's Law, I do feel like I'm working toward a goal. I feel good about me.

Hopefully, the skin cancer is taken care of for at least 3 years (the time I need before my cancer ins. will cover it)!
I just finished my Couch to 5k program!
I get to go back to Kindergarten!
I supported Relay for Life from 12:40 am until 7 am yesterday (It was incredible)!
My wonderful family is always there for me!

Even though sometimes life is difficult, I know that this is just a rough patch and the good things above will get me through it. In my head the old Baptist Hymn is playing "Because he lives, I can face tomorrow!" I wish my church would sing this one more! I wish life had background music, because I hear it all of the time:)
Happy Sunday to everyone!

Strawberry Farm

2009-05-02T15:40:00.001-04:00

We decided to go to a strawberry farm to get strawberries to make jam. I did this when Ali and Aaron were little. I thought it would be a fun outing for all. It was great!!!! Everyone was happy! We even enjoyed some fresh strawberry ice cream-we shared it!

Daddy and Aiden watched for a few minutes.

Flat Stanley came along on our outing. He's been visiting all the way from CT and will go back to my dear friend's daughter's classroom soon.

Aiden loved walking around and sitting in between the rows.

Daddy and Aiden finally got busy!

Mommy and Aiden rested for a while!

This was so much fun! Aaron and Ali enjoyed picking the strawberries. I really wish you could taste the warm, sweetness!

While we waited for our ice cream, the children played in the corn bin. My class usually takes their fall fieldtrip here and all of the students love this bin! Aiden was absolutely fascinated with the corn!

Busy little baby bumblebee

2009-05-02T15:29:00.005-04:00

Aiden is purely about investigating everything. I have enjoyed watching him discover how things work. Every time I pick up his toys, he pulls them back out. It's one of our new games. Another game I started (that I wish I hadn't) is him squealing and me telling him "ohh, you scared me!" Then he giggles heartily and squeals again-waiting on me.

Oh, he has started crawling and now he's trying to walk! He's only been crawling for 2-3 weeks and now taking steps and then falling. He's making me nervous and crazy!!!!

Prison walls for baby Aiden

2009-05-02T15:22:00.002-04:00

Aiden now has a few prison walls to keep him out of places of danger. He is fascinated with them! I am happy because they were a great deal!!!!

Warriors...huuh!

2009-04-25T18:56:00.003-04:00

Aaron wanted to play football, but didn't tell us right away. Since he never asks for anything...we said that he could. Now, he's #6 for the Skipstone Warriors! I have a vision of him headlocked with an opponent at one end of the field while the game has already gone to the other end.

Here he is entertaining Aiden with "5th position, huuh!" Aiden is laughing and loves watching his brother do this!

Enjoyable outing

2009-04-25T18:25:00.006-04:00

We took Ali, Aiden, and Kayla to the BBQ & Blues festival in Barnesville. Aaron went to a youth party at church. It was fun, but I'm just swollen and the heat makes it difficult.

He loved playing with these branches.

Ali helped me get a picture of Flat Stanley for a Kindergarten class in CT. They read the book all about Stanley.These glasses were dark enough to hide my swelling so I could go. I was trying not to laugh because it pulls the stitches, but Aiden was so cute and funny!

Daddy and Aiden had the most fun!

This lovely mark popped up on Aiden's forehead after he fell. I can tell he takes after daddy! He is climbing on everything!

Twilight

2009-04-20T13:48:00.002-04:00

I just happened to rent Twilight for my niece when she stayed with us. Well, since watching the movie, I've read the book. I think I'm going to get the next book. Am I hooked? Well, I might just see the movie again.

Sunday moments

2009-04-19T14:33:00.003-04:00

We are enjoying this lazy Sunday. We went to church and came home to homemade chili-cheese fries. Now, we're just listening to daddy tinker with the riding lawn mower (Murphy's law), watching Aiden crawl and roll the ball back, and watching Jon & Kate plus 8.

It took an enormous amount of coaxing to get all three together and smiling!

Daddy wanted a picture like mommy's pic.

4-H

2009-04-19T07:28:00.004-04:00

I am so proud of Ali! She has done something that most adults would die rather than do! It's the number one fear of adults: Public Speaking. She competed against other 4-H'ers in our district and enjoyed it! She spoke about making her bulletin board and what was involved. A parent of another 4-h'er bragged on her. Anyway, I am very happy for her and glad that she is happy.
She placed 2nd in her category! Yea!

Here she is with a few of her friends.

They are waiting to find out the rest of the winners. I am a very tacky mom! After Ali got her ribbon and I got her friend's ribbon (she had to leave), we left. When we were leaving, I kicked some elderly lady's air cast and almost tripped. She was peeved!

These girls are so interesting to listen to. They are so much more pc at 10-11 than I was at 20. Looking at this picture makes me think the future won't be so terrible! These girls are our future leaders!!!!!!!

Percentile Updates

2009-04-14T18:33:00.002-04:00

Grandparents and Great grans....

Aiden's updates are:
Height = 75 %
Weight = 70%
Head Circumference = 80%

The doctor was great. We did wait almost 45 minutes because she had to answer phone calls, but we love her and have seen her since Aaron was born. He weighed 22lbs. which I thought he weighed more.

I would love to post pics of all 3 kids, but they're not cooperating. Aaron is attached to his video games, but wants to try out for his school's football team. Ali is practicing her speech for her 4-H project competition this Saturday. We'll also have my niece and nephew this Friday and Saturday...busy weekend!

Aiden in the grass

2009-04-13T21:56:00.003-04:00

Aiden is not fond of grass. I tried to get him to get the eggs, but he almost had an attack because the grass felt funny.

I am in love with this smile!!!!

Storm damage and easter bunnies

2009-04-13T21:51:00.002-04:00

Here are pics of our friendly easter bunnies along with some damage to a pecan tree. I wish I could share how the big E got this down, but you'd wet yourself laughing so hard.

Walmart

2009-04-11T06:19:00.002-04:00

I am seriously going to give up Walmart! I think I will be able to find everything I need elsewhere! Where do all of the people come from after 5/6 p.m. at night????? I mean where are they during the day? The place was packed with crazy and rude people with some exceptions (you know us;) Aiden was happy and smiled at basically everyone. I finally had to tell him that these people were strangers and he needed to fall asleep:-)

Then Erik has an encounter with a man in a beamer-money does not mean manners! Skinny dudes just can't hold their own with big guys! So, of course, skinny, beamer guy drags tail and goes away and I chastise Erik reminding him he has Aiden to think about.

Great dinner + sucky night + movie = good laughs

BOO! I see you:)

2009-04-09T17:47:00.002-04:00

Aiden is becoming quite a funny little boy.

He's so sweet!

I LOVE this expression!

His attention getter!

Bubble, bubble, bubble

2009-04-07T04:41:00.004-04:00

Here are some pictures I'm sharing because I cannot sleep (CRCT worries). This is his first bubble bath and he LOVES it!

I know you thought I was going to blog about Jimmy Buffet-even though he's coming to town this month and I can't go:(

Oh, I also won my first game in monopoly-thanks to my nephew and Aaron!!!!! Here's what I racked up:
Aiden really wanted to play!

Scooting!

2009-04-05T09:26:00.002-04:00

Here he is...moving! In fact, he just loves anything electric! I miss him sitting still!

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Finally moving

2009-04-04T06:26:00.004-04:00

Aiden has been content to sit or pull up. Moving has not been high on his agenda and I am very content with this! I already understand that once he begins to move, there's no keeping him in one place. It's difficult to not compare other babies his age with him, especially when others ask and I look at my other 2 children's growth. Anyway...I adore him! He is wonderful!

Inching wherever he wants to go!

Loving the t.v. equipment! BTW...the maid had the week off...look at that dust!

A picture with his mouth closed.

Newly adopted friend

2009-03-22T19:56:00.003-04:00

We have a new member of our house who needs diapers just as much as Aiden! He has more spunk than all of us put together. He also seems to have eye issues... I think I have walked him at least 100 times-he's such a baby!

This reminds me a little of the sistine chapel.

Aiden enjoys watching Beau and Duke play.

Enjoyable times!

2009-03-17T04:17:00.004-04:00

Aiden is so easy going about most things-except bath time. Other than that, keep him fed and in a clean diaper and he's fine.

Really...it's going by too fast

2009-03-10T22:22:00.003-04:00

8 Months old today!
He is sitting and "talking" to us, but he won't say mama---only dada. He's eating the food he picks up with his chubby fingers. I love to watch him do that. Tonight, he wouldn't drink out of my straw, but wanted to so badly! He's moving around the living room without crawling and pintching everything even us and boy does it hurt. He still loves his baths (and showers). I'm looking forward to his first bubble bath.

In the mornings, he has to watch Aleka and learn how to read. He's delighted to see the hand prints from the dvd and hear the music and Aleka. I wish every baby/toddler/child could have this program!

He's still nursing, but beginning to wean himself. I hope to make it one more month before that happens. I'll really miss my time with him right before bed and early in the morning!

Suction anyone

2009-03-09T21:12:00.001-04:00

That's exactly what Aiden wanted as he learned how to drink from a straw. He was so funny trying to get the water! Then, he didn't want to stop.

New fun for Aiden

2009-03-08T11:17:00.002-04:00

Since we had to put Aiden's inside swing away, I strongly encouraged Daddy to buy an outside swing. This one is good up to 55lbs. So he has a little over 30 lbs. before it has to be retired.

Such a serious look! He was apprehensive about the swing at first. Then, Daddy decided to really make him go!

Fire!

2009-03-08T11:09:00.003-04:00

While Erik's younger brother visited, Ali and Erik built a small fire pit. Aaron, Carl, and Ali roasted hot dogs and marshmallows last night. They have had so much fun in the neighbor's overgrown field, oops, I mean yard. I get a little nervous not being able to see them, but they always seem to find their way back ;P

Bath time

2009-03-06T05:21:00.001-05:00

As most of you know, the little one looks forward to his bath time almost as much as he looks forward to his meals. I get so tickled when he splashes and he gets startled by the way it gets on his face! He's so precious. Dear family here's your Aiden fix for the week!

He wouldn't close his mouth!

More snow pics

2009-03-03T19:08:00.001-05:00

Here are some better pictures of our blizzard in GA.

Wonderful weekend

2009-03-03T05:40:00.001-05:00

We had a rainy and snowy weekend which finished up nicely by the wonderful snow day on Monday. Don't you love these southern states where everything stops when it snows!