The Morris Family

Happy 4th Birthday Karis!!!

2008-10-04T21:35:00.009-05:00

Today we helped to celebrate a very special birthday . . . Karis turned 4!!! Karis is Jay and Amanda's oldest child and a best friend to my kiddos! Kendall absolutely adores Karis . . . and I absolutely love that she has such a sweet friend to hang around with:) It has been an absolute blast getting back in touch with Amanda. . .we went awhile without seeing each other after college graduation. . . and so I am thankful for her friendship everyday.

The party was a hit!! Karis is taking gymnastics at a local gym . . . so what better than a gymnastics party! The girls got to wear their favorite leotard and did many fun things around the gym. They did flips, played on the bars, & jumped on a trampoline:) It was a fun day.

We want Karis to know what a great little"princess" she is and that we are very thankful for her and her friendship!! And on this day . . . her 4th birthday . . . we give God many thanks for allowing our family to blessed by her in many ways! We love you Karis! We hope you had a fabulous 4th birthday!!!

Karis's cake . . . it says "Happy Birthday Princess Karis!"

The birthday girl!!!

Kendall and Karis!

Baby Jack!

Karis and Mari- Morgan on the bars!

Kendall and Hannah on the bars!

Some of the fun activities!

Kendall was checking it out!

I have no idea what Kendall is doing here! Too funny!!

Kendall on the beam!

Kendall and Mari- Morgan doing the obstacle course!

The kiddos listening to the coach for their directions!

Memphis Botanic Gardens. . .and 90- 4 yr olds!!!

2008-09-25T22:21:00.000-05:00

Today was Drew's very 1st school field trip! Since the kids are only 4 yrs old . . . and have to ride in some form of safety apparatus (parent's choice). . . they request that as many parents go as possible. I worked it out for a great friend (Amanda- you rock) to keep Kendall and Jack for the morning so I could take Drew and a few of his classmates to the Botanic Gardens. Anay and Gracie . . two of Drew's classmates and fellow soccer team members . . . rode with us there! We had a great time. In the car we watched Dora the Explorer . . . . it definitely was a change from 3 kids- 4 and under to today having 3kids- all of them 4! I guess this is what it would have felt like to have triplets! The kids were great and we had a great day!

We started off the moning with a trip to the "Jungle"! It was a green house full of plants that grow in the jungle! Some pretty cool plants grow there, so the kids were pretty excited! We saw a banana tree, a rubber tree plant, a chocolate tree, a coconut tree, and ginger plants! After our trip through the jungle, we went to a taste center. This is where the kids got to taste some of the things that are made from the "plants of the jungle"! The kids are learning about the 5 senses . . . so this was a great learning experience for them. I think the tasting was the favorite of the 5 senses used . . . they tried coconut, ate ginger snaps, had dried banana chips, and inhaled the chocolate m&m's!!! For a buch of 4 yr olds. . .they were pretty interested! Next we went to a planting center . . . and each kid got to plant their very own spider plant! Each child decorated their own pot, put the plant inside, filled it with dirt, and wrapped it in a bag and bow! Our last stop was a place where the kids made a craft! They each made a different mask of an animal that lived in the jungle! Drew and Gracie were tree frogs, and Anay was a lion! So far so good for the trip to the Botanic Gardens . . . last we took a small tour of some of the grounds . . . we went to see the Japanese Coi Fish. . .they were absolutely huge!! We walked right up beside the water to look at them . . . I am amazed we were not fishing 4 yr olds out of the water. . . but the kids did very well.

The trip was a success! I think everyone had a blast. It was short and sweet and perfect for 90- 4 year old little kids! I had a great time too! Thanks again Amanda for making it possible for me to enjoy a day with Drew!!!

Drew, Anay, and Gracie!

Anay, Drew, Maci, Ella and Ella's dad!

Drew was brave and tried the coconut! It was not a favorite!

This was Drew's face after the coconut . . . he did actually

swallow . . . unlike a few who got up and spit it out!

Happy Birthday Papaw!

2008-09-25T16:06:00.002-05:00

Today is my dad's birthday . . . so we wanted to let him know that we were thinking of him today and that we wished we were ALL there to help you celebrate!!! We all love you very much:) See you in a few weeks!
The kids wanted to sing Happy Birthday to you:
Happy Birthday to you
Happy Birthday to you
Happy Birthday to Papaw
Happy Birthday to you . . . . and many more!
Check a little later for a video of them singing:)
Hugs and Kisses from Mississippi!!!!!
Love, Brent, Rachel, Drew, Kendall, and Jack!

Nelson's Favorite Spot!

2008-09-15T21:16:00.008-05:00

For those of you who do not know, we have two weenie dogs . . . Nelson and Sophie! We have had both of them since before the kids arrived. They are used to royal treatment . . . especially when it comes to where they sleep. They both used to sleep in the bed with us, and would have it no other way . . . but now they prefer somewhere else nice and cozy. They both love anything soft . . . and usually love to be covered up . . . especially Sophie. The latest favorite of theirs has been a kid chair that belongs to Drew. The kids had moved it into the kitchen one day playing with it, and now it is the FAVORITE seat in the house!!! (for the dogs anyway) I love to watch the dogs when they are fighting over who gets to sit in it . . . if one gets up for any reason . . . the other one darts to it and steals their place . . . this goes on ALL day! Too funny!!! I have to say . . . as you can tell from the pictures . . . Nelson usually wins!!! I think he really loves the chair a little more than Sophie, but he is also less likely to get up any reason!!! I guess that is why he slightly resembles a tootsie roll! Here are some pics of Nelson enjoying his chair:

I think he thought I was gonna make him get up:(

What a sweet dog!

Too funny . . . I think we may have to get the kids a new chair!

Sophie snuggled up in a warm, cozy blanket!

Drew's First Soccer Game

2008-09-13T21:43:00.005-05:00

Today was Drew's very first soccer game. He plays for his school . . . SBEC . . . but they also allow members of Broadway Baptist (the church that the school is attached to) to play as well:) Drew has 6 other kids on his team . . . for a toal of 7 - all of them 4 years old! There are 3 little girls (Gracie, Shayla, and Rachel) and there are 4 boys (Drew, Troy, Brandon, and Anay.) Mr. Scott (Troy's dad) is the assistant coach and Laurie (Gracie's mom) is the coach!!!
He was sooo excited when he woke up this morning. . . he was ready to play in his soccer game! His game was at 11:00 . . . it was my turn to bring snacks and drinks today so we had to get alot of stuff together before heading out to the school. The game was so much fun to watch and the kids had alot of fun! You can only imagine what a 4 year old soccer game looks like, but we are not all that bad. We did end up scoring 5 or so goals (we don't keep score), but we all know that the other team only scored 1 goal . . . so I guess that means Drew's team won their 1st soccer game. WOOHOO!!!! Way to go Tigers!!!

Drew before the big game!

Drew's team . . . minus Anay . . he was out of town!

I don't know what Drew is doing here . . . but it

looks serious. He is ready to kick that ball!

What an action shot . . . GO Drew GO!

No hands Drew. . .I think he forgot that rule!

Drew coming off the field for a quick break! Good job buddy!

Resting up before going back into the game!

Drew's biggest fans!

Kendall was in deep concentration watching the game . . .

and enjoying her "gatowade" a little early!

Drew getting a five from Coach Scott!

Time to Play!!

2008-09-11T20:29:00.008-05:00

Although school has started, we are still squeezing in some fun playdates! Amanda works Monday- Tuesday- Wednesday . . . and is off on Thursday and Friday:) On Thursday, she is kepping another little girl . . .Mari-Morgan. Her mommy Paige and Amanda are good friends and work together . . . so they swap a day od childcare each week:) Thursday is a great day for a playdate because Kendall loves to play with Karis and Mari-Morgan, too! Today we dropped Drew off at school, miss you buddy, then headed out to Amanda's house. We got there about 9:45 and stayed til 4:00! It was a fun day and the kids had a blast! There was lots of dressing up, princess movie watching, and girly makebelieve. The girls have all been so tired lately, that we made after lunch rest time . . . they were still and watched a movie for a while . . . then just played quietly for a little while, too. Amanda made an awesome soup for us at lunch time . . . I will share her recipe later . . . YUM . . . and the kids ate their favorite . . . maccaroni! She also made us an Ooey- Gooey- Butter cake . . . which was divine!!! Thanks Amanda for the fun day . . .we look foward to next Thursday!!!

The 3 little princesses: Mari- Morgan, Karis, and Kendall!

Karis and Mari- Morgan putting on their make-up!

Jack was content to play with a spoon!

Amanda and Brayden. . . too sweet!

(and my sweet little Jack in the back)

Tooth #1

2008-09-10T21:12:00.005-05:00

It is official . . . Jack now has his 1st tooth!!! It is the botton left tooth in the front:) We have not been shocked that he has not cut any teeth until now . . . mainly because his big brother did not get his first tooth til he was 10 months old. We knew that they would come when the time was right! He has been feeling and rubbing this new tooth with his tongue . . . it is too cute, because he has this look on his face like he is trying to figure out what it is:) He has been a little crabby, but not too bad. I know it has to hurt:( The bad thing about getting new teeth . . . other than it hurts . . . is that they usually are not alone. He has waited all this time for a tooth, and now he is not only getting a tooth . . . but teeth . . . 4 of them!!! I can see the the bottom right tooth and the top 2 front teeth peeking through his gums! He has been a real trooper . . . all he has needed is a little extra love and an occasional dose of Tylenol and he is is usual happy self! I guess he will be eating lots of new things soon . . . just something else fun to look foward to. It is very hard to take a picture of a tooth . . . if you can only imagine . . . so here is just a cute picture of Jack!!!

Poison Control!!!

2008-09-08T20:44:00.005-05:00

Today started out like any ordinary day! After we dropped Drew off at school, Kendall, Jack and I went to Target:) Jack was sitting in the front on the shopping cart and I had convinced Kendall to sit in the big part of the cart, too. She was helping me "organize" some of the things we had picked up . . . it worked to keep her in the buggy:) I was looking at something and heard her coughing and gagging. I leaned over to check on her . . . she had her fingers in her mouth, still coughing . . . she gagged and then threw up. It did not take me but a secong to realize she was holding a travel size bottle of Germ-X (orange scented)! I am not one to over react, but I got a little freaked out. I am sure, in a somewhat loud voice, started asking her if she had put it in her mouth. She kept telling me "no", but I knew that she had. I kept on asking her . . . trying to make sure that was what really happened and she finally said "she had licked it off her hand." I was a little relieved that she had not turned up the little bottle and took a swig, but I was still scared. I called Brent. . . no answer, so I called my mom . . . I knew she would know what to do. Since I was standing in the middle of Target containing 2 kids, she called Poison Control for me. They basically said, since it was a small amount and she threw it up immediately that it should be fine. I was to wait about 15-20 minutes to let het drink anything and that was that . . .Crisis averted!!! I will have to say that I do not think Kendall will ever lick Germ-X off of her hand again . . .at least I hope she does not. We had a long talk later on today about things we put in our mouths and things we should NOT put in there . . . hopefully she was listening . . . she is just 2 1/2! Heed my WARNING . . .Germ-X does not taste good and quickly induces vomiting if ingested (at least in our case!)

Tonight at Dinner!

2008-09-07T18:48:00.005-05:00

Tonight I was inside all by myself feeding Jack dinner . . . Drew and Kendall were helping Brent in the yard! Jack was eating (carrots and applesauce) and being sooooo cute. He has learned to do many new things in the last week or two . . . so he was showing out for me tonight. Over the course of his dinner . . . he clapped his hands, shook his head "no no", blew some sweet kisses, drank out of a sippy cup, and waved bye- bye! My little man is so smart! I was so proud of him . . . and everytime I would praise him he would start to clap. I actually took some pretty cute pictures, and in some of them you can tell what he is doing:)

Here he is clapping! Yeah Jack!

Blowing some sweet kisses!

Some more clapping!

He was cracking himself up!

He was talking to me in this picture. . .

wish I knew what he was saying!

Jack . . .you can't hide behind that cup!

OK . . . so I guess he showed me!

Kendall and Drew helping Brent pick weeds in the yard!

They love to help . . . they are actually

getting to the age where they are a little help!

The Germantown Festival!

2008-09-06T21:29:00.009-05:00

Today we went to the Germantown Festival. This is the first time we have been in a few years, but I must say this year was the best one we have attended:) There was so much fun stuff for the kids to enjoy, lots of terrific food, and lots of great vendors! Haylie and Nick went with us and we had a blast. It was pretty hot when you were not in the shade, but overall it was tolerable. We spent approximately 4-5 hours at the festival . . . and with 3 kids that was enough. The pony rides were a favorite with the kids . . .specifically Kendall. She loved the ponies so much that she ended up riding once in the morning and again later in the afternoon:) It was a fun day!

This was one of the biggest bounce

slides I have ever seen . . . and he did it!

He was so proud that he did it . . . and was ready to do it again!

Kendall braved a smaller bounce slide . . . but still big for her!

There she goes! Yeah Kendall!

This is Kendall's 1st pony ride!

You can't tell, but she was singing a little song that she

made up while she was riding! Too cute!

Jack was just hangin' out while we

waited our turn for the pony rides!

Drew and Kendall waiting patiently for their turn with a pony!

Kendall and Brent . . . she decided she did not want anyone to hold

onto her . . . but her daddy stayed close by!

She absolutely loved the pony rides! When we

were done, she looked at all the ponies and

said "Bye ponies . . . see you next time!"

Drew liked the pony rides,too!

Jack's New Toy!

2008-09-05T21:36:00.006-05:00

Tonight Jack was introduced to a new toy . . . It was a toy that Santa brought him, but he is just now big enough to play with it! It only took Brent a few minutes to put it together and it was entertainment for all 3 kids!! Jack crawled right over to it . . . watched Drew and Kendall play with it for a minute . . . and he was all about it! He loved it! He is getting so big, and doing new tricks everyday. Today while playing with his new toy, he just let go and stood there without even holding on to anything:) This was a first for him . . . and I know at this age it won't be the last! He is such a big boy! I am so proud of his accomplishments, but a little part of me gets sad to see my little baby growing up and out of the infant stage:( For now I will hold onto the little things and enjoy every minute . . . I am just glad that the toy was a hit!! Here are some pictures of Jack and his new toy:

Going over to check it out!

Hey. . . what goes in here?

He loved touching all the colors and lights!

He liked the balls . . . Drew was teaching him where to put them!

Jack was sharing a ball with Drew!

Brent tried to give Jack the ball back . . .

all he would do is lean over and lick it!

Jack loved his new toy! So much fun!

He wants someone to wake up his daddy . . . OK!

After we played . . . it was time to eat!

I guess Jack likes see- food :)

We will work on that one later!

What a Mess!

2008-09-04T22:30:00.004-05:00

It is official . . . Jack is now into everything. He can army crawl, scoot, hand-knee crawl . . . whatever he wants to do to get where he wants to go! The last few days have been the same story. . . anytime I put him down near the dvds, he heads straight for them! It is like there is a blinking sign that says "Please come mess with me"! For any of you that know Brent, he loves movies. He keeps them in nice condition and in some form of order on the racks, well not anymore. I spend half of the day picking them up when Jack is not looking . . .but as soon as they are neatly back on the shelf he makes a bee-line for them. Today he was so cute . . . and so proud of himself. I think he feels like he has accomplished some big task by emptying them off the shelf! I guess I will continue this game as long as the movies are not harmed and I put them back in their place before Brent gets home from work:)

He looks a little mischievious here!

He was sooooo excited! I guess he knew that

The OC and Scrubs are daddy's favorites!

What a sweet little guy! Love you Jack!

Sarah Is Her Name!

2008-09-03T22:41:00.019-05:00

Tonight was a big night for the Republican Party! I am not one to dive fully into politics . . .but as an American I feel it my duty to have knowledge of our candidates and participate in the election of our country's President/Vice President! As a republican, I could not be more proud at our nominees for 2008! Tonight I was blown away by Sarah Palin . . . what a fabulous speech she gave at the RNC! I think John Mc Cain made a wise choice when selecting her and I think she will be a fine asset in a leading role in our government! She seems to be just an ordinary citizen . . . just like you and me, but I continue to remind myself that it is ordinary people who go out and do extrodinary things! I think that is definitely the case with Gov. Palin and I look foward to the many things she and McCain will accomplish together. She is a "doer" and I like that about her. She has the ability to talk the talk while she is walking the walk!!! What an amazing woman . . . she is a mother, coach, lobbyist, goal-oriented visionary. . . we need someone like her fighting for us in Washington. I am pumped about all the things that she has planned and look foward to the next few months!

What a powerful speaker! So inspiring!

Just like us, yet so powerful!

McCain/Palin 2008!

Sweet Baby Jack!

2008-09-03T22:41:00.011-05:00

I encountered such a precious moment tonight that it was worthy of a few photos to help remeber it by! Brent was holding Jack while he drank a bottle . . . nothing out of the ordinary except that Jack all the sudden started to pat Brent's face. He was holding the bottle with one hand and loving on Brent with the other. It was absolutely precious! Brent thought it was so sweet, that he called me into the living room just to witness what was happening. Of course, I was a bit distracting with the camera, but he still continued patting/ rubbing Brent's face:) He is such a sweet little boy. We love you baby Jack!!!

Right after I came to watch!

He started doing it again:) So sweet!

My little boy!

I think he thought he was being cute . . . hence the big smile:)

Tub Time!

2008-09-02T23:48:00.003-05:00

Tonight was just a quick bath . . . but Jack still had a great time. I had to take a few pictures to share:)

Jack loves to take a bath!

He was looking at his daddy:)

So sweet . . . even when he is soaking wet!

Memphis Zoo Party!

2008-08-31T22:17:00.012-05:00

Tonight was a party at the zoo for the members! The zoo is only open to members from 6-9pm. They had live music . . . all the animals were out for exhibit . . . and the kids can "take a dip in the nile (i.e. fountains)! It is just another excuse to go to the zoo . . . and we had a blast! This is a different time of day than we are usually at the zoo, so some of the animals were a little more active because it was nighttime:) We walked around and checked out our favorite animals (Drew and Kendall's favorites of course!) Once it got dark, we decided to let the kids get in the fountains. They had a big time splashing around in water:) We ended the night with a trip to the Cat House. We met some friends . . . Dana, Tom, and Maddox Giel and Dana's brother James . . . for a little late night snack (ice cream)! It was another fun time at the zoo!

The kids are ready for the zoo party. . .

check out their armbands!

Me and Kendall :)

What a beautiful white tiger!

The tigers were really active. . .they were playing with

each other! It was too cute!

This guy looked hungry. . . I hope he doesn't think we are dinner!

This is the female lion. . . this is the closest I have ever been to her!

She is huge! Look at her head!

Jack loved the Lions!

We love the zoo!

Hey dad . . .look at those tigers!!!

Kendall and her dad! Priceless!

Brent and the kids. . . checking out the giraffes!

I love this guy!

Thanks Jack . . . for moving the bottle to

flash me that million dollar smile:)

The kids loved playing in the fountains. . .

yes you may go play in the water now!

A very satisfied Morris family outside the zoo!

Now it is time to go home. . . way past a few kids' bedtimes:)

Shots, Shots, and More Shots!

2008-08-29T23:16:00.011-05:00

Today was Jack's nine month check up . . . everything checked out great and he is right on schedule! He had to get 2 shots today . . . which is better that 4. . . but it still hurts (me and him)! Jack did very well . . . he fussed for just minute, but as soon as I picked him up and loved on him a bit he was fine :) The hardest part was what came next. . . Drew had to get all his school entry shots! 4 booster shots and a TB skin test! WOW. . .is all I have to say. Shots are never easy, but they apparently get harder the older you get! I had tried to prepare him a little bit for the shots . . he knew that he was getting them and that afterwards he would get a special treat from Target:) This worked fine at home, and even as we were entering the Dr. office . . . but things changed quickly when it became his turn! I had to hold him down . . . with Jack in the other arm . . . while he cried and screamed "he didn't want any more shots" It was absolutely heartbreaking. He was. . . just like Jack . . . fine once it was over. I gave him a few kisses and a big hug and told him what a brave boy he was! He was now ready to go to Target! He later told Brent that he was a big boy and that he only cried a little:) I was very proud of both my little guys today! Til next time. . . and I hope it is a long time from now!

A Night with the Memphis Redbirds!

2008-08-29T23:16:00.008-05:00

Tonight we went to see the Memphis Redbirds play at Autozone Park! I am sad to say, this is the first game we have gone to since Drew was about 9 months old:( We had decided we were going to take the kids to a game before the season ended, so we chose tonight . . . and it just so happened that the entire Lemonds family was going to the game tonight, too! It gets even better, because it turns out that Amanda had extra tickets . . . enough for our whole family to get into the game free:) Thanks Amanda and family for sharing the tickets! We had a blast!!! The kids watched a little of the game, but for most of the time just enjoyed playing with each other! We enjoyed some good ole baseball food . . . for me and Brent that means Bar-B-Q (nachos) from the Rendezvous and yummy hotdogs for the kids! It was a great night and we look foward to attending more games next season!

Memphis Redbirds

Drew and Brayden cheering on the Redbirds!

Kendall and Karis played with their "babies" . . . and

watched the cheerleaders when they came out on the field!

Kendall and Karis with their little babies!

Drew and Kendall eating their hotdogs . . .

yes they peeled the bun off like a banana!

Karis was giving Jack sweet kisses!

Me and Jack!

Amanda and Jay! How sweet!

Brent and Jack!

Amanda 's parents: Lolli and Pop:)

Jack is 9 Months!

2008-08-28T19:11:00.022-05:00

It is just so hard to believe that Jack is now 9 months old! He is learning something new everyday. Since his "8 month" blog Jack has mastered several large milestones . . . he can pull up (on anything), he can crawl ( most of the time it is on his tummy because he can move so fast, but he can do it on his knees), he shakes his head "no no" when he does not want something or because he thinks it is lots of fun, he waves/ says "bye bye", and he can eat fun things like crackers, fruit puffs, etc. . . anything that will dissolve because he still has 0 teeth:) This has indeed been a very busy and exciting month. He spends his days exploring the world around him and continues to be amazed at so many things! He is such a joy and a blessing in our lives and we are truly lucky to have this amazing little guy for a son!! Just some facts and figures: He weighs 19lbs and 11 oz:) He is 38 1/2 inches tall (75-90%). His head is 18 1/2 inches around (full of brain. . . just like his daddy)! He is growing right on schedule!!! Here are some cute "9 month" pictures for your enjoyment:

Jack loves to help with the laundry!

Look at me mom!

Look at those dimples!

He is checking everthing out now that he can stand!

He loves Ritz crackers!

We love you baby Jack!

Lions, Tigers, and Bears - Oh My!

2008-08-28T19:11:00.017-05:00

Today was another fun gathering of the "girls"! Amanda, Ashley, and I took the kids . . . Karis and Brayden . . . Thomas, Maggie, and Mary Taylor . . . and Kendall and Jack to the Memphis Zoo:) We have not been in a month or so due to the hot weather. We finally felt like it had cooled off enough to go again, however today was one of the hottest days we have had in several weeks. It was hot, but the kids still had a blast! We drank plenty of water and got out of the sun whenever possible:) As usual we ended our zoo trip with a little splash in the fountains . . . the kids always look foward to this part of the day! Even though it is the same zoo, we see different things each time we come. The kids are never bored and always have a super fun time. The adults love it , too!!! Til next time girls. . . here are some pictures from the day:

Kendall and Karis waiting on the rest of our group to arrive!

The tiger must have been hot, too!

Karis, Thomas, Kendall, and Brayden . . .

up close and personal with the gorillas!

Jack loved the gorillas, too:)

Kendall and Karis said the elephants were stinky!!

Karis, Kendall, and Brayden in the Butterfly exhibit!

This was also in the exhibit. . . I thought it was so pretty!

Karis and Kendall looking at some birds:)

Kendall took a moment to cool off!

Amanda trying to hold all 4 kids up while they look at a

"baby Nemo"! Good Job Amanda!

A sweet picture of my little girl!

Jack was enjoying a relaxing bottle . . . I think he had it made:)

Kendall and Karis watching the penguins!

Jack loved the petting zoo!

Kendall, Karis, and Brayden riding the big plastic cow!

Karis and Kendall were "keeping their new pandas warm"!

Fun times in the fountains!

Jack had a fun day at the zoo! He is always full of smiles:)

A wet, but very cool Kendall!

We had a very fun day at the zoo! We can't wait to do it again real soon! Thanks Amanda and Ashley:)

Happy 1st Birthday Emily!

2008-08-23T23:31:00.016-05:00

Today we helped celebrate Emily Shands 1st birthday! What a fun day it was . . . we played in the pool, ate grilled hot dogs and hamburgers (yummy), and enjoyed each others company:) It was a fun way to celebrate Emily Kate and what a special little girl she is to us all! Here are some fun pictures from the day:

Emily was content in her own little pool!

Jeff and Brent in deep discussion!

Drew was loving the pool . . . and I think he was showing off

his muscles in this pic, too! (and his batman tattoo)

Abigail . . . Emily's cousin:)

Eating lunch . . . it sure was yummy!

The kids took turns riding in the radioflyer wagon:)

What strong little men they are!

Pull elliot . . . Push Preston!

Drew was there for moral support!

I think she was excited!

Emily was ready for her very 1st cake!

Too cute!

What a sweet little girl to share with her mommy!

I think she ate every bite . . . she loved it!

Kendall watched her very closely!

It was Jack's turn for a little lunch!

Emily on her new princess car! She loved it!

Sweet Emily in her cutie dress her mommy made!

Good job Sarah!

Jack was content with the box her new car came in:)

Emily looked adorable in her new tutu!!!

Hope your 1st birthday was a blast Emily!! We look foward to many more celebrations with you on you birthday!!!

Jack Stands Up!

2008-08-19T22:58:00.005-05:00

Jack is at a very fun age . . . he is learning to do so many things so fast! It is hard to keep up with him. Everyday he finds some new way to amaze me:) This afternoon, I was on the computer talking with Dana Giel . . . I heard Jack wake up from his nap. I went in to get him and found him standing up in his bed. I was so excited! He has stood up before, if we placed him there, but this time he did it all by himself!!! He was too cute. I clapped and praised him for doing it and he was sooo happy. However, the pictures reveal something else . . . you see, when I ran to the kitchen to get the camera he fell apart! He thought that I was leaving him in his crib. . . so the pictures are a little sad! I could not resist posting them, because I was so proud of him, but he looks pityful. (Oh, and don't mind the ladders and such in the pictures . . . Jack's room is temporarily under construction!) Those pictures to soon follow:)

What a sad, sad face!

Mommy promises to pick you up as soon as I take this picture!

Much better with the paci in! Still a very sad little guy!

We are so very proud of you Jack!!!

Our Little Gymnast!!!

2008-08-14T21:29:00.007-05:00

I have to admit that the Morris' have been watching TV nonstop the last week:) We have been glued to the Olympics . . . including the kids! In particular, Kendall loved watching the girls gymnastics! Gymnastics is the main motivation for this post:) One night we were watching the girls team semi-finals. . . Kendall disappeared for a few minutes and returned wearing a purple leotard! My mom knows how much Kendall loves to dress up, so she has several of these little outfits. Thanks Nanny:) I think until the Olympics she was unaware of their intended use, but not any longer!!! She came in wearing one and was ready to go for the gold! She was posing, and flipping, and doing exactly what the girls on TV were doing! It was absolutely priceless! I got some great pictures of her performing her events . . . and we gave her a perfect 10!!! Everyday when we would turn on the Olympics, she would ask for us to "turn on the flips . . . I want to watch the flips"! Too cute! I guess gymnastic lessons are in her future:)

Kendall working on her balance beam routine!

Here is a flip from the low bar:)

Kendall's signature move on the beam!!!

Another practice beam exercise!

Part of her floor exercise, the baby was there for moral support!

Just a little side note . . . Kendall does not usually have 3-4 ponytails in her hair at one time . . . but she has been getting me to add more and more each day. She will tell me "mom i want 2 ponys . . . i want 3 ponys" . . . and so on:) Who could say no to that!

Another Afternoon Outside

2008-08-12T19:59:00.011-05:00

The weather in Memphis has been crazy! This time last year it was 100 degrees+, and this week it has been in the mid- high 80's! It sounds hot, but it definitely feels better than the alternative. Since we don't have to worry about the kids having a heat stroke in the 80's, we have been spending alot more time outside:) I always try to capture the kids doing fun things . . . sometimes I am successful and other times I am not! I did manage to steal a few shots of them enjoy a nice summer afternoon:)

Kendall is still learning to use her pedals!

Drew is hard to capture on camera . . . he is so fast!

Jack loves being outside. . . especially with his daddy!

My beautiful Vincas:)

Drew's First Day of School

2008-08-12T19:59:00.007-05:00

Today was Drew's first day of junior kindergarten (k-4) at SBEC! He was really excited this morning when he woke up . . . I hope that continues throughout the year! He is in Mrs. Pollan's class . . . which is who I wanted him to have . . . and he was excited about her because her son Luke was in Drew's k-3 class last year. We are working on teaching him to call her Mrs. Pollan instead of Luke's mommy, but she said she didn't mind:) School starts at 8:15, so I had to prepare last night everything we needed to get ready this morning and not be late. We did just fine getting up and ready. . . and Drew was on time to his 1st day of school. He let me take a few cute pictures of him getting ready to go into class . . . he is such a big boy now . . . and such a sweet boy, too! Good luck in Jr. K buddy, we all love you very much!!!!

This is Drew beside his classroom. . .he is standing by his name!

So cute. . .and so big!

This was Kendall after we dropped him off. . .she was excited for him!

Jack was excited, too!

This was Drew after we picked him up. . .he is standing by his cubby!

Drew gave me the thumbs up for his 1st day of school!

This is Drew kissing his brain . . . this is something Mrs. Pollan taught them to do after you have used your brain alot . . . he thought it was fun . . . and I thought it was too cute!!!

Drew had a great first day of school . . . and we know that he is going to learn alot this year with Mrs. Pollan!!

Preview Day

2008-08-11T20:33:00.006-05:00

Today was preview day at Drew's school. It is the first day for the K-12 graders, but for k-4 it is a day where the kids come to check out their classroom and meet their new teacher! We are very blessed that Drew has a fabulous teacher (Mrs. Pollan. . . or Luke's mom as Drew calls her) and Ms. Liz (her assistant). We are also very blessed to have Ms. Liz because Drew already knows her. . .she was his k-3 assistant last year. . . she is great, too. Overall we are very fortunate and we know that Drew is going to have a great year! I took a few pictures of Drew getting acquainted with his new classroom:)

Drew was excited to show Kendall his new classroom!

They headed straight for the play kitchen:)

This is a very mischievious look on Drew's face. . .I wonder!

Drew with Ms. Liz (left) and Mrs. Pollan (right)!!!

Outdoor Fun!

2008-08-11T20:32:00.007-05:00

We needed to get a good family picture for Drew to take to his teacher on his 1st day of school . . . this is our attempt at a family picture . . . sometimes it is difficult to get all three kids to look at the camera and smile, too. Here is the best one:

The Morris Family

This was a sweet picture of all three kids!

(Jack was not sure about the texture of the grass!)

Tah Dah!

Kendall and Jack. . . he still was not sure about the grass!

After our "photoshoot" . . . thanks Haylie and Ms. Sissy . . . the kids wanted to ride their bikes! We spent another hour or so outside playing . . . it was alot of fun:) I took a few pictures of them riding, too.

Kendall on her Dora bike!

I think they had a wreck :) . . .but everybody was OK!

Drew likes to pedal fast!

Happy 4th Birthday Thomas!

2008-08-09T20:45:00.011-05:00

Today we helped celebrate Thomas Clark's 4th birthday! His parents are friends of ours from Union University. . .Chris and Ashley Clark. We have been hanging out with them this summer and our kids are now little buddies. . .it has been so much fun! His party was at Longview Heights Baptist Church. . .directly across the street from our sub-division:) It was in the gym because there were two huge moon bounces for the kids to play on. . . they were a hit! One was a real long train with a slide on the inside. . .and the other was Jurassic Park! They had a blast! We are so glad that we got to help celebrate Thomas's 4th birthday and we look foward to many more adventures together! Hope it was a great one Thomas!!!

Thomas was all excited about his "special cupcakes"!

He has so many allergies his mommy made these just for

him. . .I must say they were Yummy!

Thomas blowing out his candles!

Presents are always fun!

Drew was good at making birthday noise!

He even taught Kendall how to do it!

Kendall and Karis (and baby) taking a break from jumping!

They had it all to themselves for a little while!

Jack found him a cozy place. . .

his daddy has the magic nap touch!

Me (with Jack), Amanda, and Ashley (with her friend's little one)!

All My Dreams Came True

I will preface this story by saying that this summer my kids have really been into frogs! Kendall has some small rubber tree frogs, we have seen them at the zoo, and Amanda has them all in her yard. Drew has spent many days searching for some of the smallest tree frogs you could possibly imagine. They love them! After the birthday party, we ran a few quick errands. It was getting dark when we got home. I walked to the trash can to throw something away. . .and I saw it. . .a huge frog! I called for Drew and Kendall to come look at what I found. They were so excited. After Drew looked at him for a minute. . .without saying a word. . .he looked at me and said

"Mom, All my dreams came true. . .I have little tree frogs and a big tree frog!"

What a sweet little boy! I am so glad that Brent caught the end of our conversation and heard him, too. It was sooo cute! He was sooo excited about that frog. . .we let him touch it. . .and Brent took a few pictures of him before he hopped away! Sorry they are a little blurry, but you get the "picture"! So enjoy. . . Drew's backyard frog:)

Here is Drew and Kendall's new pet. . .our frog!

Drew touching him gently before he hopped to safety!

Play-Doh Fun!

2008-08-09T20:44:00.009-05:00

Today we decided to do something we don't normally do. . . Let our kids play with play-doh! They have played with it before, and have received alot for gifts. . . but I usually suggest other(less messy) activities. Well, not anymore! Today. . and I feel many more days to come. . .we are playing with it. The kids had a blast! I bet we spent over and hour. . .all of us. . .at the table making fun things! It really was fun. . and messy. . .but I guess that is one reason why it is so much fun. We have hard wood floors, so clean-up was not too bad! Of course, we had to start off by making a few simple rules:

1. Play-Doh must stay on the table at all times!

2. We do not put the play-doh in our mouth!

3. Do not feed it to the dogs!

Overall the activity was a hit! The rules were easy to follow and we are now going to let the kids play with Play-Doh. . . as long as we can keep it under control! We have so much stored up, that the mixing of colors. . .and what dried out while on the floor was just thrown away and replaced with fresh! We salvaged what we could and then moved on! What a fun Saturday morning with the whole family:) Thanks Play-Doh. . .you aren't so bad after all!

Jack played in his exersaucer right beside the "Play-Doh" table!

Kendall and Drew just getting started!

Kendall wearing the Play-Doh necklace her daddy made her!

Maybe that is what I will get for Christmas!

Drew showing off some of his work!

Hot! Hot! Hot!

2008-08-05T21:56:00.002-05:00

The last few weeks have been horribly hot here in Memphis (Olive Branch, MS)! We have reached some triple digits for the last few days. . . it has been hot, hot, hot! I know it seems like we are at the pool alot, but it really has been a great activity for all of us to do together without having to battle the heat. It has also been a "favorite" summertime activity. . . the kids love it! Today Amanda, Karis, and Brayden came over to our house to swim:) We had a great time. It was hot, but the water was just right today! Overall it was pleasant (as long as you were in the water)! We swam for a couple of hours and had our picnic lunch:) Here are a few pics from another glorious day in the sun!

Jack really loves the water!

Brayden was stealing a ride with Amanda on the float!

Kendall and Karis playing in the water!

Drew and Brayden. . . having a big time!

Happy Birthday Haylie!

2008-08-01T07:59:00.006-05:00

From January 2005:)

I just wanted to send a very special Happy Birthday to my best friend! Happy Birthday Haylie. We all love you very much:)

It has been 7 + years since we became good friends. . . and with each year that passes I am reminded how lucky I am to have you as a friend! I am so blessed to have you in my life and in the lives of my kids. . . I think they love you (Hay-ee) as much as I do:) I hope that on this birthday you know how much you mean to us. . . and though we may not see each other as much as we would like (because our lives are CRAZY). . . we still cherish our time together with you. I know that one day we will slow our fast pace lives down and be able to once again enjoy lots of fun times together! In the meantime, we will settle for what time we can have with you and Nick:) Hope this was a great #27!!! We look foward to many more!!

Fun in Tunica. . . .

2008-08-01T07:39:00.018-05:00

Yesterday we decided to do something a little different than our usual trip to the pool. . . we went to the Aqua Center in Tunica. It has two very large pools with high diving boards, etc, but we took the kids there for the kid area. It is a pool that is 3 ft at its maximum and it has all kinds of different sprinklers, fountains, and things to play on! The kids had a blast! The water was a little cold. . . did I mention it was indoors. . . so the sun was not there to keep us toasty:( The kids played through the cold and had a great time. We did sit in the shade outside for our picnic lunch. . . just enough heat to warm us back up for a little more cold water:) We had a fun group today, we had a total of 4 adults and 10 kids!!! Our crew: Amanda and her two (Karis and Brayden), Ashley and her three (Thomas, Maggie, and Mary Taylor), Paige and her two (Nathan and Mari Morgan), and me with my three (Drew, Kendall, and Jack)! What a bunch:) The kids are really getting used to spending alot of time together. . . they look foward to each new adventure. . . it is so much fun letting them grow close to each other. . . they love to play and have a good time! We love it too!

Drew loved the big fountain!

(look at Amanda in the background) LOL!

Kendall just chillin' (literally)!

Karis. . . she really looks cold:)

The girls: Karis, Kendall, and Maggie!

Me and Jack enjoying the water!

Our picnic lunch. . . outside the center!

The kids were lovin' the apples Amanda brought! Yum!

Karis, Kendall, and Drew trying to stay cool in the shade!

Is that possible in this Memphis heat?

2008-07-28T15:40:00.008-05:00

Jack is 8 months old today!

We have been so blessed the last 8 months. . . this little guy is such a wonderful addition to our family! He has grown so much over the last 8 months. . . and way too fast. He is now sitting up on his own, eating solid food, he is not crawling yet, but he can move across the floor using his own method, he loves to give kisses, and he has a special way of stealing your heart! He is always smiling. . . as you can see from numerous pictures. . . he really is a sweet little boy! We love you baby Jack and look foward to many more of your amazing milestones:)

Jack sitting on the couch. . .don't worry

I was right there to catch him if he fell!

Yes, did I mention he is a genius. . .

reading (upside nonetheless) at 8 months old:)

What a sweet little guy. . .he gets so excited over things! I love it!

Happy Birthday Amanda!!!

2008-07-27T11:37:00.005-05:00

I just wanted to send out a very Happy Birthday wish to my friend Amanda! Today is her 29th birthday! Amanda and I became friends while we were in college at Union University. We were also sorority sisters in Zeta Tau Alpha! After we graduated, I saw her a few times around Memphis. . . but we had lost touch with one another. It has not been but until very recently that we have started hanging out together. . . We now have kids that love to play with each other, but I have to say that my life has been once again blessed by her friendship. In college you have many friends. . . sometimes too many to really be thankful for what they really mean to you, but as we get older "good" friends are few and far between. I consider myself very lucky to have Amanda back in my life and I am so thankful for her friendship:) She is truly a phenomenal person. . . such strength, so much love, such a godly woman and example to all. . . I am inspired by her to be a better person, mother, child and follower of Christ.

So today, Amanda, on your birthday, I wish you all the happiness and joy that the day could bring! Thank you for your frienship:) Happy Birthday my Friend!!!!

I always thank God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. 1 Corin 1:4

We Love to Swim!

2008-07-23T22:35:00.009-05:00

Yesterday Amanda and Paige came to my house to go swimming:) The kids get so excited when they find out that we are going to the pool! Even though swimming has been our #1 activity this summer, they still love to go! We met around 10:00, our usual time. It was a little cloudy today, but still very hot. . . even the water was a little warm:( The kids are always hungry, so we ate lunch about 11:30. . . then back to water for some more fun!

This afternoon was a little different, because we had a little incident that left us all a little freaked out! Our subdivision has two pools. . . they are gated and locked. . . you must have an entry card to get in. . . but today we had some visitors. First i want to mention that it was Amanda, Paige, and myself. . .plus our 7 kids at the pool all by ourselves! These two young guys came up to the gate and wanted us to let them in the pool:( We explained it was against neighborhood rules to let them in. . .they kept on asking. . . they said they only wanted to jump in then get out. . .yeah RIGHT. . . they stood at the gate and stared at us for about 15 minutes before another woman from my neighborhood walked from her house to the pool. We were sure they would just follow her in. . . they asked her if they could be her guests. . . she said no several times before entering the pool to come join us. . . again for about 15 or so minutes they stood and stared at us. . . finally they rode off up the street. . . we never saw them again. It was a little scary. . .even with the fence because we looked like caged in animals. . .we had no where to go. After they rode off, the woman, Leann went into the model house and talked with one of the agents. They called the police to come patrol the pools and neighborhood! What a day!

All in all we had a fun time! We love getting our kids together to swim and have a good time. It is also fun for the adults. . . you can never have too much girl time when you are a stay at home mom:) Thanks girls. . . we will do it again soon. . .this time no drama!

Drew jumping in the deep end of the water! Go Drew Go!

Mari Morgan taking a brake from her goggles!

Amanda and Paige chillin'. . . this was before the visitors!

I took this after Karis told me "no" she was not going to look at me!

Kendall asleep on the couch. . .moments after we got home!

Another Day in the Sun!

2008-07-20T23:25:00.010-05:00

Yesterday morning we decided to go to the pool. . . it has been such a hot summer already, so the pool is a great choice of activities! Plus. . . the kids love the water! Some of our friends came over to cool off with us. . . Jeff and Sarah Shands:) We spent most of the morning swimming, then ate a picnic lunch, and did a little more swimming after lunch. We finally went back to our house so the kids could play. . .and the little ones ( Jack and Emily) could nap. We later got ready and had an early dinner at Casa Mexicana! It was a fun day:) We had a blast hanging with our friends. . . everyone was exhausted after dinner, so bedtime came early that night:)

Drew, Preston, and Kendall waiting to get in!

(Thanks for listening kids:)

The patience was running thin. . . they were

checking to see if we were ever coming to the water!

Kendall was excited about something!

Drew swimming without floaties. . .

he is a pretty good swimmer!

The guys. . . with the babies. . . what good husbands we have!

Sorry for the angle. . . just a sweet picture of Jack snoozing!

Good Ole Friends!

2008-07-20T22:04:00.004-05:00

Tonight we had dinner with our best friends! Nick and Haylie came over. . . we talked alot. . . ate alot. . . and had a good ole time:) Things have been a little busy the past 6+ months, so we have had limited time to hang out with each other, but it is always fun to be with them. Our kids adore Nick and Haylie. . . they enjoy their company as much as we do! We hope that things/life slow down just a little and we can spend more time with them in the future. Good friends are hard to come by and we are really lucky to have friends like Nick and Haylie! We have been truly blessed since our friendships began:)

Nick was playing with Drew and Kendall. . . look at all the animals!

We love Nick! . . . and the animals!

Me and Haylie trying to avoid being on camera!

Night, Night Jack. . . he is so precious!

Kendall's First Haircut!

2008-07-19T21:43:00.008-05:00

Last night was a big "FIRST" for Kendall! She got her very first haircut:) She was soooo excited about getting a haircut, but I think she was even more excited that Karis's mommy (Ms. Amanda) was giving it to her! I had not cut Kendall's hair up until now, because it took a long time for her to get hair I could not bare to cut any of it off. I know that it needed to be trimmed, and I am glad we finally did it! It looks so healthy now :) We had been at their house to swim all day. . . we ended up staying for pizza (Brent came over after work), and the kids played til 9:00! Some where in all of that we squeezed in "the haircuts"! We had a fantastic day with all our friends. . . and the evening events were alot of fun, too:) Thanks Lemonds' for having all of us over. . . we sure do enjoy your company!

Kendall was patiently waiting for her very 1st haircut!

Look at her beautiful blonde hair!

(Before)

Kendall getting her hair cut by Ms. Amanda!

Brent and Jay were there for support. . . Amanda you did a great job!

Kendall was all smiles!
(After)

After the cut, Kendall wanted a "PONY" like Karis!

I think she likes her new do!
Thanks Ms. Amanda!

We all decided Drew needed a trim. . .

Wow Amanda, I am amazed by your multi- talents!

Doesn't he look handsome?

Playdate with Friends. . . .

2008-07-19T21:42:00.008-05:00

Yesterday was another fun adventure with Amanda and Ashley. Today was an extra special day because we had some extra friends come and swim, too:) Our usual: Me and my three. . Drew, Kendall, and Jack + Amanda and her two. . .Karis and Brayden + Ashley and her three. . . Thomas, Maggie, and Mary Taylor. In addition, Amanda's mom ( Ms Jane/Lolli) had been staying at Amanda's since Wednesday. . . she was there with Emily, Nick, and Timmie:) We had a large group and it was a blast! The day was extra hot, so we spent most of the time in water. We did our usual picnic lunch and spent the rest of the day bathing in the glorious sun! It is always so much fun when we get together. . . the kids enjoy each other and we get to have some good quality "girl" time! (if the kids let us) It was another successful summer day. . . I wonder what we will do next? HUM:)

Drew just chillin' in Jack's baby float!

Kendall loved the wet noodle!

Kendall and Karis. . .swimming. . . our little fish!

Timmie and Nick giving Drew and Thomas rides in the big float!

Jack was snoozing in the shade!

Jack hanging out with Ms. Jane:)

Jack was loving his ride in the float!

Such a sweet little boy!

Look at Karis. . .she was posing for this picture!

Too cute!

Maggie. . . how cute is she in those Dora glasses?

Karis and Thomas playing on the steps!

Kendall and Karis. . .our little nuns. . . were being so silly:)

Look at my little Jack in the background. . .he looks so big!

PJ's

2008-07-17T00:14:00.005-05:00

I absolutely love pajamas! I guess I should reword that to say "I really love kids in pajamas!" I have a hard time passing up a real cute pair of PJ's in a store. I love to cuddle with my kids. . . but if they are in their PJ's (and especially if they just had a bath and smell so good) I can not help but want to snuggle:) Sometimes it is hard to get Kendall to wear some of her jammies that I really like, because she has several favorites that she prefers to wear (all the time) . She has pretty much given up on onepiece jammies, too. However, tonight she put on a pair of precious jammies and she looked too cute in them:) I had to capture it on camera! Last call for these jammies, I think they are a little small, too!

My precious little girl!

Drew really loves his little sister!

I do not know what the kids are doing in this picture, but it is the background I want you to notice. Brent did not know he was in my shot. . . I do believe he is probably on facebook!

It's Time to Play!

2008-07-15T23:25:00.007-05:00

This afternoon I borrowed Karis and Brayden Lemonds:) Their mommy, Amanda, had a meeting for a couple of hours, so they came to play! Like I have said in earlier posts, the kids love it when there is no agenda accept free time to play! They were non stop. . .they did take a few moments to settle down long enough to eat a little dinner, but the moments were very FEW! It is always so funny to watch kids play. . .specifically mine. I love to see their imaginations run wild. . . the toys they choose to play with. . . the energy in which they play with (anyone figured out how to bottle it up yet?) As always, it was another successful playdate with our buddies Karis and Brayden! Kendall and Drew love spending time with them and have gotten used to seeing them at least once a week:) I hope we can keep up the pace when summer is over, because I think my kids will be sad without their "fix" of the Lemonds' each week:) It will be hard during the school year, but I am up to the challenge! I had to take some pictures, of course, because they are always doing something so cute!

Drew and Brayden had on matching t- shirts! They are too cute:)

Kendall opened the door to the play house to say "Hello!"

Kendall and Karis! The two little princesses were ready for dinner!

I found Karis sitting like this. . .all the other were playing in the closet! Too funny!

At least Karis is playing with a toy. . .Kendall is reading a Parents

magazine! I guess that is how she knows all my tricks!

Somewhere there is a little naked princess!

My sweet little Jack. . . he was content to play by

himself in the living room floor:)

What a sweet little boy!

Update on Jack's Sleeping!

2008-07-14T20:51:00.005-05:00

Jack is officially sleeping through the night now! He has been for a couple of weeks. When I blogged the last two times about his sleep. . .we had just set out on this new adventure. He was doing well, but still getting up once to eat. He now goes to sleep around 8:00 pm and get up around 6:00am. He will eat and usually go back to sleep until he hears Drew and Kendall:) Overall, we are happy with his new sleeping patterns. We can not complain! He is such a joy to be around. We love you so much Jack!

Too Big!

2008-07-14T20:39:00.001-05:00

The kids love to cuddle up in our bed and watch T.V. They don't get to do this very often, so when they do it is a treat! They are usually pretty good about not getting into things, but today they were exceptionally quiet. When I got to my room, this is what I found:

Drew and Kendall wearing my shirts:)

They had both got out one of my shirts and were wearing them. They looked too cute! They thought it was sooo funny that they were wearing my clothes. The funny thing for me was that they were sitting watching T.V. in them:) Just one of those memories. . .something cute my kids did when they were little:)

Happy Birthday Landyn!

2008-07-12T20:27:00.008-05:00

Today Drew had another birthday party to go to. One of his best little buddies from school, Landyn, turned 4! We knew that there was going to be a waterslide, apparently the "in" thing this summer! It is a great idea. . .the kids absolutely love it, but it keeps the parents on their toes! I don't consider myself an "Over" protective mother, but I want all my kids to be safe. We made sure they got out of the bottom pool before the next kid went down, and definitely they had to go one at a time down the slide. Even with small rules. . .the kids were having so much fun! Some how Landyn ended up hiting Drew in the face with his head. . . there were a few tears. . . and a little blood. . . and one fat lip, but that only slowed Drew down for a few moments. What a few minutes of TLC from mom will do:) The party was a hit and I had to stay over a few extra minutes to let Drew and Landyn slide together (after everyone else had left). Happy 4th birthday Landyn!!!

Drew at the top of the slide. . . he has no fear!

This made me nervous. . .they were jumping onto the slide!

Landyn opening his gifts!

Incredible hulk hands. . .the favorite present!

Everyone wanted them! (look at Drew's face)

After everyone left. . .Landyn's mom wanted to try out the slide!

The boys thought that was so fun:)

We let the boys go down together once they were by

themselves. . . they loved it! It was like a little race!

We Love The Sun!

2008-07-12T20:26:00.007-05:00

It was another hot day in Memphis today, so guess what? We decided to go to the pool:) Our friend, Sarah Shands, brought her two kids over to swim with us this morning. Preston is 3 1/2 and Emily is almost 11 months. It was really hot, so going to the pool was a great idea. We got a late start, but we ended up with a few good hours of pool time:) As always, the kids spent all of their time in the water. We caught a few good pics of the kids. . .minus Jack and Emily. . .they were napping or in the shade eating something during the photo session! This summer has already been so full of fun days at the pool with good friends! We are so thankful for these good times. . .and look foward to many more!

Drew, Kendall, and Preston. . . .easing their way into the water!

Kids always love to play on the stairs. . .Go figure:)

Look at Preston go!

Preston and Drew both jumped in. . .I know it looks like

Drew was jumping on Preston's head, but he was just beside him:)

Two Little Princesses!

2008-07-10T21:36:00.005-05:00

We had a little visit yesterday from some of our good friends. . .the Lemonds. The kids always have so much fun whenever they have a chance to get together and play. . .so that is what they did! Just a few pictures. . .because I thought they were too cute:) We have two really girly girls. . .I guess we like to call them little princesses! Playing dressup is always fun! Take a look for yourself:)

I think Kendall was wishing for her prince!

Our little princesses were hungry. . .yum Fritos!

What good little buddies . . .Kendall and Karis!

Brayden was lovin' all Drew's boy toys. . . Drew missed all the

festivities, he was at camp. . . we missed you buddy:)

Pool time!!

2008-07-07T22:39:00.007-05:00

Brent did not have anything going on at the hospital today (a rare but nice event), so we took the kids to the pool! We love it when he is home and we get to do fun things together:) We let the kids decide between the pool or the zoo. Of course, we tried to secretly convince them that the pool would be so much fun because it was 96 degrees today. . too hot for a stroll around the zoo! They finally decided the pool is where they wanted to go:) We got up this morning, got ready and headed to the pool. We stayed at the pool for about 4 1/2 hrs. . .and at the end of the day we were all exhausted. We spent the rest of the afternoon and evening in our warm and cozy jammies watching T.V. and movies:) What a fun and relaxing day!

Kendall and Drew waiting patiently for us to let them in the pool!

Kendall loves to hold Jack!

Drew needed his floaties to jump in the deep end!

My little sun bathing beauty. . .she loves to splash with her feet!

We took a small lunch break. . .the kids wanted to get

back in the pool as soon as possible!

Our Little Laundry Helper!

2008-07-07T22:34:00.003-05:00

We spent some time doing alot of laundry this weekend. . .what a chore:( Although we don't enjoy sorting load after load, followed by washing and drying load after load, then folding and putting up load after load, we can't complain too much because we have some great help. As you can see from pics below, we have the cutest little laundry helper! Jack was having a blast helping his daddy fold this load of laundry:) Pictures, of course, were necessary!

" Look at me mom!"

" I want a laundry basket for Christmas. . OK!"

He was having so much fun. . I think Brent left him in there while

he folded several loads of laundry!

Looking at Brent!

"I love it when we do laundry:)"

Fourth of July Fun!

2008-07-05T18:28:00.006-05:00

Yesterday we had some of Brent's co workers over to help us celebrate the 4th! Brent fired up the grill and we spent the good part of the late afternoon stuffing ourselves with a smorgasbord of food:) We ate so many good things I feel it necessary to list at least a few: grilled cajun sausage, boudain, grilled shrimp, spinach dip, fresh fruit, pasta salad, burgers, grilled zuccini, and chips:) Yum Yum! We had fun just standing in the kitchen, grazing on food and enjoying each other's company. We don't spend much time with each other outside of work, so it was nice just to relax and talk about something other than Urology. . .although I can not lie it came up occasionally in the conversations:) Thanks guys for coming over and spending the afternoon with us. . .it was alot of fun!

Jamin playing outside with Drew and Kendall!

They were having a blast with him!

Brent and David. . .I don't remember what Brent was discussing here?

Sophie was loving the attention she got from David!

David, Kathy, and Brent having some in depth discussion,

apparently Reza was not interested! JK:)

Jack was enjoying the afternoon!

The kids enjoying the sprinkler. . .once our company left!

Drew's face is priceless!

Brent and Jack watching the sprinkler fun!

At the end of the night, the kids were in the backyard watching the fireworks with Brent. I am not sure if Kendall has ever seen fireworks before. When they came back in the house I heard her say "Bye Bye Booms". How cute is that? She was telling the fireworks. . .that she called "booms" bye:)

Another Day at the Pool!

2008-07-05T17:56:00.006-05:00

On Thursday we went to Amanda's for another fun day at the pool:) We always have such a great time hanging out with the Lemonds. . . the kids love Karis and Brayden. . .Mrs. Amanda and Mr. Jay, too:) They also have made some other friends. . .Nathan and Mary Morgan belong to Paige. . . Ellie, Ethan and Eli belong to Mary Beth. Paige and Mary Beth go to Amanda's church. . .we really enjoy hanging out with them, too! Nathan keeps the kids busy. . .he is a great frog hunter. . .they like to get out in the grass and search for tiny little frogs:) Drew and Kendall love it! After swimming we all went to Amanda's house for just a little while so the kids could play. It was a house full of kids, but they were having so much fun together! Kendall and Drew are always anxiously awaiting their next adventure with Karis and Brayden!

The girls snacking on a BIG bag of Doritos!

The Doritos were a big hit today!

Drew and Brayden have matching swim trunks! Too cute!

Sprinkler Fun!

2008-07-02T21:58:00.004-05:00

It has always been said that kids don't need toys to have a good time. . . I guess all they need is a sprinkler! This evening Brent decided to water our yard. While he was returning a phone call and I was feeding Jack, this is what our kids decided to do:) They were having a blast! I bet they played for 3o minutes like this. . . the only thing that changed was the amount of clothes that they were wearing! Parents be advised. . .the next few pictures may contain some nudity:)

Kendall and Drew were having so much fun!

Look at me mom!

Drew likes to show off his muscles!

(This is where the declothing began!)

They really play well together!

Kendall loves to be naked. . .we have tried to teach her that it is OK when others can't see her. . I could not pass up this photo opportunity. . .she is too precious. . .they are only little once. . RIGHT? However, she may not forgive me for these when she is a teenager:)

7 Amazing Years!

2008-07-01T12:28:00.003-05:00

Yesterday Brent and I celebreated 7 years of marriage! It is hard to believe that we have been married so long. I am truly thankful for each day that I spend with him and look foward to many more years to come. We have been blessed with so much in the last seven years. . .and I know that we will continue to be blessed as a couple and as a family:) Thank you Brent for your unconditional love. . .you are such a wonderful man! How lucky I am to have you for my husband. . .I love you very much:) Happy Anniversary!!!

Canon Turns 4!

2008-06-29T17:43:00.005-05:00

Today Brent took Drew to Canon's birthday party in Hernando, MS! Canon is one of Drew's classmates from SBEC and one of his best buddies. I was not there, but from the pictures Brent took, it looks like they had a blast! There was a huge blow up water slide and electric automobiles for the kids to drive:) The theme for his party was Kung Fu Panda. . .they had an afternoon of fun activities followed by presents and cake and ice cream! Happy 4th birthday Canon!

Drew going down the waterslide. . .head first!! Go Drew!

Canon going down the slide. . .WHEEEE!

Drew, Landyn, and Canon. . . they look up to something!

Hold on tight Landyn!

Typical boys. . .always eating!

Landyn, Tyler, Canon, and Drew. . .Big Buds!

Urology Chiefs Banquet

2008-06-29T17:31:00.011-05:00

Last night we attended a banquet for Brent's work. The banquet included a nice dinner, followed by a roast of the senior residents by the junior residents, speeches made by the chiefs, and the "seniors" receiving their diplomas! This banquet occurs every year and is held in honor of the residents who have completed their training at the University of Tennessee (Memphis.) This year the senior residents were John Malcolm, Chris DiBlasio, and Matt Kincade. What a great group of guys! John and his wife, Julie, are moving to Norfolk, VA. . . he is going to train one more year in laproscopic surgery. Chris and his wife, Alissa, are moving to Long Island, New yourk. . . .he is joining his dad's urology practice. Matt and his wife, Angela, are moving to Tyler, TX. . . he joined a private practice group with three- four other urologists. We want to wish each of these couples the best of luck with their new jobs, and want them to know that they will be greatly missed! Our night out would not have been possible if it weren't for my friend Amanda and her husband. . .they kept our kids tonight. . .We just want them to know how appreciated they are!!!

The three senior residents. . .John, Chris, and Matt!

The UT residents and most of the attendings/faculty!

Me and Brent!

Brent and David. . .his partner in crime:)

Brent with Dr. Derweesh. . we are sad to see you go,

but San Diego is lucky to have you!

Justin and Jeremy getting one last lecture from Matt!

Be careful Chris, John, and Matt. . .don't drop Dr. Derweesh!

Maddox Turns One!!!

2008-06-29T14:43:00.006-05:00

Yesterday our family went to Maddox's 1st birthday party! We are friends with his parents. . .Brent also works with his mommy and went to med school with his daddy. What a small world:) He had a "baseball" party. Everything was outside in their backyard. . . .there was a moon bounce, a tree swing, blow up baseballs, hamburgers and hot dogs, cake and ice cream, and lots of friends and family. We had a blast! The kids really had a good time, too:) Happy 1st Birthday Maddox!!! We look foward to birthday#2!

Dana trying to get him to eat some cake instead of just playing with it! Yummy!

I think he was finally done. . .no more cake mom!

Jack had a big time, too!

The kids loved the swing. . .Go Drew Go!

Kendall holding on tight. . . what you don't know is that right after my picture she fell off the swing and landed in the grass by Brent's feet! She was OK:)

Brayden Turns 2!

2008-06-27T23:46:00.007-05:00

We have recently started hanging out with some college friends of ours: Amanda Nason Lemonds. . her husband Jay. . and their two kids Karis(3 1/2) and Brayden (2)! How amazing it is to go such a long period of time without seeing old friends, and pick right back up where you left off! Tonight we are helping celebrate Brayden's 2nd birthday!!! He had a pool party with a baseball theme:) We ate hotdogs and hamburgers (YUM. . . Thanks Jay), the kids jumped on the large water slide, did a little swimming, hunted small frogs, and ate yummy cupcakes! The party was a hit! We have been so blessed to have this family come back into our lives. . .what an amazing group of people. When I say family. . I mean the whole family! Amanda has an amazing family and our family is blessed to get to spend such quality time with them. Thanks for all the great times thus far! We look foward to many for activities together. The kids absolutely love their new friends, Karis and Brayden, and are now getting used to all the grown ups too! (Lolly and Jay, etc)

Drew going down the big slide! He is fearless!

He looks sooo cold!

Kendall was brave, too! Way to go!

I think she was proud of herself!

Jack was getting some special love from Mrs. Jane!

He absolutely loves her!

Karis was all warm and cozy. . .Thanks Uncle Matt!

Ashley and Mary Taylor Clark!

The adults! Allen, Matt, Amanda's parents, Jack, Jay, and Brent! If you are wondering. . .they are smiling because someone said it would be funny if I fell in the pool while taking this picture:) Thanks guys!

House Full!

2008-06-27T23:17:00.004-05:00

Today was a first for me! Although I have three kids of my own, and am used to taming chaos, I had never attempted what I did this morning: 5 kids (all 4 and under) by myself! I watched some friends of ours little boy and girl (Preston and Emily). Of course I don't have to tell you that there was absolutely no schedule to our day. . .the kids spent most of the day playing (and having a blast). . .we did manage to sneak in a few necessary events. . lunch, potty, and for the two babies, naps! Yes, I admit that the kids had Mac n Cheese for lunch, which they loved, and had marshmallows as an afternoon snack, but at least they were fed. . . RIGHT! Overall the day was a success. . .we had loads of fun, everyone ate something, nobody got hurt, swallowed anything they were not supposed to, and I know there were a few hairs left on my head at the end of the day:) I guess what is really important is that we all survived the day and had loads of fun!!!

Kendall had a blast with Emily!

Emily finally passed out in the exersaucer. . .

I promise I did not leave her here for very long:)

She slept beside me on the couch while I fed Jack. . .and he napped, too!

Jack had to occupy a little of his own time. . .but he didn't mind!

Boys being boys! Of course dinosaurs!

Although I think "Cars" was the true hit of the day!

A Day to Always Remember!

2008-06-25T14:12:00.028-05:00

It is hard to envision yourself growing old. . . as I think back to events in my life, many of them seen like "only yesterday" but the reality is that it has been 5-10-even 15 years since they have occured. Where has the time gone? I am brutally aware that death occurs at any age of life, but as I get older I know more and more people who are dear to me are going to leave this earthly life and go to live eternally in a glorious place! Just as Jesus comforted the disciples before his death, I am comforted by his words:

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. . . . John 14:1-3

Today is the birthday of a dear, sweet friend (Amber Donovan Mathenia) from my college days at Union. She would have been 29 years old. She was killed in a tragic car accident back in January. What a shock to hear of her passing, yet a joy to know that she was a believer and that God had prepared a room for her! It has been about 3 1/2 years since I had seen Amber. . .I saw her at a local hospital as she was coming to visit another dear friend who was having her first baby. I was so glad to get to see Amber and even more excited to meet her little girl, Ellie:) Amber was so much fun, always had encouraging words, had a positive attitude toward every situation, and had the kindest heart! She was everyone's friend! So on this day, the day of her birth, I will try and reflect not on her death, but what her life brought to me and everyone she came in contact with! I will continue to pray for her husband Anthony. . .and her two precious children (Ellie and Isaac). . .I know that they miss her dearly!

Sweet memories from All Sing!

ZTA Big/Little Halloween

Amber with her Big Sis Jeanna and her Lil Sis Michelle

Another All Sing Picture. . So much Fun!

Relaxing Day at Home!

2008-06-24T22:26:00.004-05:00

So far this summer has been packed full of many fun days. . .trips to the zoo, sunny days at the pool, play dates with friends. . . exactly what summers are for! We love getting to do fun things with friends, but sometimes it is nice to have a restful day at home. The kids get to lounge around and play with their toys, watch movies, play in the yard, and just relax:) Today was one of those days. . .Drew goes to day camp at SBEC on Tuesday and Wednesday, so he was not here, but Kendall, Jack, and I had a restful day at home. We had no plans for the day. . .first Kendall helped me give Jack a bath (of course she decided to get in the water to help), then Kendall spent a little while playing in her room. . . Jack and I joined her after his morning nap:) They were having a blast. . .as you can see from pictures below Kendall loves her baby brother very much. . .He is just like her dolls except more fun! We played for a little while, ate some lunch, snuggled on the couch and watched some TV, I did a little laundry, we baked a cake, and all three of us took an afternoon nap:) What a wonderful day! Shortly after we all woke up, Brent got home with Drew. The rest is as most nights go: dinner, playtime with dad, bath, and bed! We have alot of fun being on the go, but we do enjoy a relaxing day at home every once and awhile:) Here are some pictures from our playtime in the morning:)

Jack loves his floor mat. . .

especially if Kendall is playing on it with him!

All smiles. . . these kids have so much fun together!

I told you Kendall thinks Jack is just like her dolls!

Sweet Jack!

Kendall was having so much fun!

We do miss Drew very much when he is at school. . .playtime is just not the same without him. . although Kendall likes her alone time with mommy. . .she is always asking when "Dew" is coming home!

Pool Day!

2008-06-23T22:04:00.009-05:00

My friend Amanda and I have decided that pool day is going to be a regular event:) We had another fun outing today including our usual picnic lunch! The kids' swimming skills are getting better every day! Today we ran into some of our neighbors, the Price's (Stephanie, Adam, and Austin). They provided great entertainment and assistance with the kids! The kids loved having "big guys" to play with. . . I guess "moms" sometime get a little boring:) Jack played hard early in the day and the took an almost 2 hour nap with Amanda on the float. We had a blast! After swimming everyone came to our house to play for a while. Nap time bypassed us, but Drew and Kendall were fast asleep in their beds (voluntarily) by about 7:00. As always, we look forward to more fun days at the pool!

Kendall doing the splits!

Brayden in the open water. Look at him go!

Drew comes up for air:)

Adam showing Kendall some cool tricks!

Jack found a comfy place to nap:)

Karis and Kendall taking the babies for a stroll:)

Kendall and Karis in the backyard playhouse

planning the next step of their adventure!

Dinner and Dessert!

2008-06-22T07:49:00.004-05:00

Saturday night we met our friends Nick and Haylie Mulliniks for a fun night on the town. We met them for dinner at On The Border (Yum) and then decided we should go get some ice cream. We went to a local Baskin Robbins. . . .what a yummy treat! The kids have not had a whole lot of ice cream in their short little lives, so you could only imagine that choosing one flavor was not easy for them. I guess with kids you should always stick with simple: Drew chose chocolate and Kendall had strawberry:) We took a few pictures of the kids and their ice cream. . . I think they ate as much as they wore home on their clothes. . Who knows? Our kids love getting to hang out with Nick and Haylie. . .so this was a fun night for all. . .as we have been busy lately and our time together has been limited! Thanks Mullinks for a fun night:)

Drew and Kendall ready for dinner!

Me and Haylie with Jack (wearing Nick's hat!)

Drew and Daddy:)

Kendall and Mommy: Yeah for Ice Cream!

Haylie entertaining Jack with "Itsy-Bitsy Spider"

Family Slideshow!

2008-06-21T13:03:00.005-05:00

We made this slide show so you could view some cute pictures of the kids! They are always doing something so cute. . . We hope you enjoy!

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Learning How to Sit!

2008-06-20T22:38:00.004-05:00

Today was the first time that Jack has really sat up by himself with even the smallest amount of balance! He played like this for quite awhile. . .I quess he likes the view from sitting! He was so cute sitting on his mat playing with his toys that I just had to capture a little of it on camera. Jack is now 6 1/2 months old, so I am sure many new and exciting milestones are coming our way. Of course if you notice in one of the pictures he is still practicing his new trick. . . sticking out his tongue! It was so funny, because as soon as I got out the camera he started sticking it out. Each day brings new things at this age. . . so I'll try and keep you posted. We would not want you to miss anything new (or too cute!)

Yes, at this age, everthing does go in his mouth!

Sitting and sticking out his tongue. . two tricks at a time!

What a showoff!

Falling over is even fun!

Good ole fashion playtime! He loves his playmat!

Drew and Kendall were close by cheering him on! They love it when he plays in their room!

(notice Kendall is practicing her Vanna White impression!)

A Day in the Sun!

2008-06-19T16:51:00.012-05:00

Today we had another fun day out in the sun! We drove to Hernando to go swimming with our friends Amanda, Karis, and Brayden Lemonds. A couple of their friends from church (Mary Beth +3 kids and Paige +3 kids) also came over to swim. We had a combined total of 4 adults and 11 kids! Wow! What a crew. As always, we had a blast! Here are some pictures from our fun day at the pool:)

Kendall, Karis, and Mari-Morgan slowly getting in the pool!

It was cold at first!

Amanda helping Drew and Kendall swim!

Jack was enjoying the outdoors in his bouncy seat!

Kendall was working on her tan!

Karis chillin' in the float!

Drew loved going under water with goggles on!

Kendall decided that her bathing suit was getting in her way:)

My little naked princess!

Jack's New Trick!

2008-06-17T23:29:00.007-05:00

Jack has a new trick! It is really hard to describe, so I just took some pictures. I hope you find them as funny and as cute as I do! I think what sparked this new trick is the discovery of his tongue. . .he just all of a sudden started doing this. . .especially when I got out the camera! (What a ham!)

Too funny. . .it is still such a sweet face!
Drew wanted to prove he could do the trick too!

I think he was proud of his accomplishment!

Mommy is proud too!

Fun in the Sun!

2008-06-17T16:48:00.007-05:00

Brayden, Karis, Kendall, Drew, and Jack!

Yesterday we decided to spend the day at the pool! My friend, Amanda Nason Lemonds, from Union came over to join us. She has two kids. . .Karis and Brayden. Her mom (Ms. Jane or "Lolly") came, too! We had a blast! The weather was perfect and we were able to spend a relaxing day in the water with the kids. After swimming for about 3 1/2 hours and a picnic lunch outside, everyone was exhausted. Here are some pictures from the day.

Brent helping Kendall swim. . .without her floaties!

Amanda and Karis

Drew and Karis made sure they would not drown!

Jack. .loving the water!

Me and two really sweet water babies!

Drew was amazing. . .he was swimming

all by himself! What a little fish!

(he had some great help from Ms Jane !)

Ms Jane shared her float with Brayden and Jack! All Smiles!

He loves to jump! Look at him go!!

I guess this is what a day at the pool will do to you! How sweet!

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-15T21:56:00.017-05:00

This morning when I woke up, I could not help but be so thankful for my loving husband, the father of my three beautiful children, my Mr. fix-it, my gardener, my right hand man, my rock, my soulmate, and my best friend! Amazing that I could only be talking about one person. . . . . Brent! Today we are celebrating all the many wonderful things about our fathers! We decided that we would spend the day having fun with the kids, after all who is a father without the kids? Brent has not been with us to the Zoo since we got our membership, and since it was his day we let him choose the activity. He wanted to go to the Zoo. . . of course there were no complaints from the kids. We had a very fun filled day. There were many things that Drew and Kendall wanted daddy to see! We spent time in cat country looking at all the large cats (lions, tigers, leopards), we played on the zoo playground, we went to watch the polar bears have their afternoon snack (fish), we had a picnic lunch, followed by elephant tricks (too cool), snow cones, a ride on the carousel, the giant pandas, the gorillas, and reptile world! There was just so much too see. We concluded the day with a cool dip in the entrance fountain! We were all so HOT. . . this was a great idea! It was a very tiring day, but everyone had a blast (including dad) and that is who really counts today! We love you lots dad for all you do for us! We are all very lucky to have you as our dad! After the Zoo dad decided that he wanted his favorite chinese restaurant for dinner. . . Pei Wei (Yum Yum)! The perfect ending to a perfect day!

Brent and Jack. . .before the adventure began!

We love the Zoo playground!

Jack is such a trooper! He must love the Zoo!

Me and Jack

Brent and Drew. . . they found the Rhino!

The kids loved the carousel!

Wheeeeeee!

The best way to cool off at the Zoo!

A Good Night's Sleep! #2

2008-06-15T21:40:00.001-05:00

Last night was our second night to put Jack in his own room in his crib! Tonight was a little different, because I was actually home. Our night went as follows: I fed Jack, gave him many kisses, and I layed him down around 9pm. He was very quiet at first. . .then he started fussing a little. It only took about 5-10 minutes of minor fussing before he was sound asleep. What a sweet litlle guy. About thirty minutes after I laid him down I quietly entered his room to my darling little man fast asleep:) What a sight! He woke up one time around 2 am and Brent went in and gave him his paci and he drifted off to sleep immediately! Thanks DAD! Around 5am he woke up again. . . this time I fed him. It only took about 20 minutes and I just layed him back in his bed. He never made a peep. How lucky we are that this new bedtime ritual is going so well. . .( less tears for mom)! We look foward to many more good nights of sleep. Thank you Jack!!!

We Love the Zoo! 06/05/08

2008-06-14T17:54:00.000-05:00

On June 5th, the kids and I met our friends (the Lemonds) at the Memphis Zoo:) We arrived around 9:30 to start off what would end up being one terrific day! Together Amanda and I chauffered around the zoo a total of 5 kids. . .Drew(4 1/2). . .Karis(3 1/2). . .Kendall(2 1/2). . . Brayden (2). . .and Jack(6 mo)! Wow what a crew! Believe it or not the kids were really good and we had an awesome day! Some highlights of our day included lots of large cats in cat world. . . we even got to witness the mating of a pair of cats (glad the kids were unaware of what was going on)! Can you only imagine the questions? We had loads of fun checking out the monkeys, too! The new female gorillas had only been outside for all to see for three days. They were so cool to watch! The kids loved these guys too, especially when one of them smacked the glass window right where we were watching them!!! The polar bears were sooo big. . . we watched them for awhile from the under water room! What an interesting view. My favorite were the giant pandas!!! They are nocturnal animals, so we were not expecting much, but they both were awake. To our surprise the female (Ya-Ya) was reclined against a tree just enjoying a big pile of bamboo! We watched her for awhile. . . the male (Le-Le) was also awake! They were cleaning his habitat because apparently earlier that day he decided he no longer liked the type of bamboo he was eating. They were having to change out everything. They were amazing creatures to watch, and oh so cute!!! We spent roughly 6 hours at the zoo, leaving no stone unturned. We saw lions, and tigers, and bears OH MY! . . we also saw some "stinky" elephants, a family of giraffes, a sea lion show, many birds, kimodo dragons, the new butterfly exhibit, and the farm petting zoo. After a very long and very HOT day at the zoo we decided to let the kids put their feet in the large water fountains at the entrance to the zoo. Getting their toes wet would lead to another 45 minutes of playtime in the water and needless to say, their toes were not the only thing that got wet that afternoon. Finally the exhaustion kicked in and the kids were ready to head home! We said our goodbyes to the zoo, and to each other with the promise that we would come back again real soon! What a fun day at the zoo!!!

Karis, Kendall and Drew stopped to pose for a quick picture!

Kendall and Karis . . . what a pair!

Me and Jack resting our feet at the sea lion show!

Amanda saddled up all the kids for a ride on a plastic cow. . .they loved it! Yee Haw!

Cold water at the handwashing station. . . enough said!

Karis, Drew, Kendall, and Brayden "getting their toes wet"!

We finally made it home. A pooped Kendall

giving the zoo a big thumbs up!

Jack's First Solid Food

2008-06-14T14:21:00.000-05:00

It's finally that time . . . Jack is now trying solid food! He has PATIENTLY waited to start eating real food (if you can call rice cereal real food). He did pretty well with his first meal (6/6/08), but as you can see it took a little getting used to. To follow the instructions of our pediatrician, we are feeding him rice cereal for a week or so and slowly going to start introducing each individual veggie and then the fruits!! This is always a fun time when babies start exploring new things:) I know that he is ready to eat solid food as he has been trying to put our food in his mouth at any given grab/chance! Who knew a 6 month old could rip a spoon from your hand or grab a breadstick from your plate? (he has been trying this for months) I know that these are important milestones in little Jack's life and I look foward to each and every one . . . however I can't seem to help feel a little sad that the last 6 months have flown by and my once tiny, sweet, dependent on me baby is now eating solid foods. As his mom, I guess I have to grasp that my little one is growing up! What a precious little boy he is . . . and although it hurts a little I accept that I can not keep him this age forever and look foward to his many achievements to come (sitting, standing, talking) :) God's creations are truly amazing!

A Good Night's Sleep!

2008-06-14T13:54:00.000-05:00

Last night I worked an overnight shift at the hospital. Brent and I finally decided that it was a good night to start putting Jack in his crib. . .and letting him soothe himself to sleep/ and back to sleep(since I was not home). For the last several months he has been sleeping in our room in his bassinette, and waking up frequently throughout the night to eat (he loves his mommy time). We knew it was time to "nip this in the bud" so the adventure begins! To our complete amazement, Jack went to sleep without a peep and slept in his bed from 9:30pm to 6:00am!!! Wow!!! "Is it really going to be this easy" is the question running through our minds right now? Hey- who are we to complain . . . .so tonight we will start bedtime a little earlier and pray that we have a repeat event of the fabulous night before:)

Playdate with Old Friends!

2008-06-13T16:06:00.000-05:00

I wanted to go back a few weeks and write about a few adventures our family had that were lots of fun and have fun photos to go with! I recently have met back up with some amazing college friends (Ashley Clark and Amanda Lemonds) . We have lived in the same city for a few years now, but just never saw each other. (shame on me) We all have kids around the same age so that makes our meetings alot of fun. Our first outing was at a local Chick fil A on May 28th! We met in the afternoon, and stayed for an early dinner. The kids had a blast and we had a chance to catch up with each other!

Here are some of the pics from that day:

Maggie Clark, Karis Lemonds, Brayden Lemonds, and Kendall!

Drew the monkey!

Kendall

Karis Lemonds

Ashley Clark with Mary Taylor and me holding Jack and Kendall!

First Blog

2008-06-12T14:47:00.000-05:00

I have been inspired by a friend to begin this blog. . . not so much for others as more for a recollection of things happening in my life and the lives of my loved ones. I hope that our family and friends are able to enjoy getting to look at daily activities of me and my family. I also hope by keeping this blog I am reminded daily how lucky I am to be a wife, a mother, and a child of God! Thank you for your interest into our lives. . . much more to follow very soon:)