The Pittman Post

Halloween 2011

2011-11-03T16:25:00.011-05:00

For Halloween this year, Kate dressed up as a fairy, complete with a set of wings and a lighted skirt. Luke is into Star Wars now so he wanted to be a Clone Trooper, I think mainly for the gun. Kate was so concerned that the batteries for her lighted skirt were going to go dead that she wouldn't turn on the skirt until she was heading out for trick or treating.

Our friends down the street, the Martinez family, threw their second annual Halloween party. The kids got a bite to eat, some play time and took turns at breaking open a pinata. Here's a shot of the kids getting ready for a group pic. Of coarse we didn't get a good shot.

This is our cousin, sailor Levi enjoying party.

Here's a shot of Kate with the Cope girls, Audrey and Lilly.

After the party, it was time to go trick or treating. Cousin Jacob joined us for some candy gathering.

Here's a shot of Luke, minus mask and gun because they got to heavy, running to the next house. They thought people were going to run out of candy.

Hope everyone had a Happy Halloween.

Posted by John

Camping at Horseshoe Bend

2011-11-01T13:47:00.005-05:00

This past weekend we took what will probably be our last camping trip of the year. The days are getting colder and we're just pretty much booked up for here on out. We set up camp at Horseshoe Bend on the shores of Beaver Lake. Our spot was pretty nice being right on the water. The kids loved walking down to the shore line and throwing rocks into Beaver Lake, finding hiking sticks and collecting wood to burn. It's the simple things that make them the happiest.

Our friends Doug and Tracey George stopped by on Saturday and picked us up for a boat ride to Hickory Creek for a little lunch. The Bluffs Restaurant actually turned out to be a pretty good place to eat. Highly recommend getting the brownie desert...good stuff! Luke and Kate even got to drive the boat for a bit which they enjoyed as well.

Beth made the trip a halloween themed trip with her halloween table cloths, pumpkin light string and an evening of carving pumpkins. I was actually impressed with how much Kate helped clean out the insides of the pumpkins. Maybe next year she'll be able to do a little more of the carving.

So another successful camping trip. We're going to turn Beth into a outdoors girl one of these days. I still think she's only in it because of the kids and me, thanks Beth! :)

posted by John

Kate's Birthday Weekend

2011-10-24T21:37:00.006-05:00

This past weekend our little girl turned five. Can't believe she's already five years old. So for her birthday, Kate wanted to have a skate party. I think everyone had a good time skating. The kids played skating games, had pizza for lunch and cake to top it off. Happy Birthday, Kate!

On Sunday, Kate's actual birthday, we headed up to Right Choices Corn Maze in Missouri. We haven't been up to this place in a couple of years and it looks like they added on a few more attractions. We pretty much did everything they had to offer. We walked the short corn maze, took a hay ride, and watched the kids ride the cow train, slide down the slides and swing on the tire swings. Luke even got to shoot the corn cannon and the kids bounced around on the bounce pad for a while. Good way to spend a birthday afternoon.

GOOOOOAAAAAAAL!!!

2011-10-17T20:45:00.005-05:00

Kate's first year of soccer season has come to an end. I believe she finished with 10 or 11 goals over the 8 game season, with a hat trick in one of those games. Kate had some reservation at the beginning of the year, but now she's sad that the season is over. We're so proud of her and can't wait for next season.

Kate with her mad dribbling skills.

Kate with her last goal of the year. Notice Luke is in the net, stuck in the net.

Go Crew!!!

Look who can tie a shoe...

2011-10-16T20:02:00.003-05:00

Kate has been wanting to be able to tie her own shoe laces for a few weeks now. So this morning, I sat down with her and look who can tie a shoe lace now...

Posted by John

You have something on your mouth...

2011-07-27T10:11:00.002-05:00

Just a funny video we thought we'd share. Luke trying to clean his face of Cold Stone bubble gum flavored ice cream. Good times...

Weeeee!

2011-07-10T21:13:00.003-05:00

Hope everyone is staying cool in this crazy heat. I'm ready for these 100+ days to go away, but I think we're just getting started. Well, we're staying cool here. We set up the sprinkler this evening for the kids and ended up finding a way to get the kids down the slip-n-slide. Good times!

The 4th in STL

2011-07-07T21:49:00.018-05:00

Another 4th of July has come and gone and another fun trip to St. Louis is in the books. Even with a rained out Sunday evening, we still managed to see a parade, watch an air show, catch the Steve Miller concert, eat at some good restaurants, take the kids to the Magic House and we even stopped by Meramec Caverns on the way home. That was a lot of stuff in just 3 days. Here are some pics from the weekend.

Kate and Beth dining outside at Roosters.

Kate and Beth touching the electrically charged ball.

Kate dressed up like Pocahontas.

Luke working on replacing the muffler.

Nice family pic in front of the arch.

We sat a little further back this year, closer to the court house, and had a great few of the fireworks.

Air show over the Mississippi River.

Kate making Luke a 4th of July hat at the Magic House tent.

Kids getting some candy from Spiderman at the parade.

Luke all wrapped up, trying to keep warm at Meramec Caverns

for more pics, click here.

20110623 Kate's final swim lesson

2011-06-23T22:36:00.001-05:00

Kate had her final swim lesson for the year this evening. Parents were invited to stay and watch the lesson and to see the progress the kids have made. What a difference a couple of weeks can make. We're really amazed on how Kate just dunks her head into the water and blows bubbles. How she jumps into the water without any floaties or hand holding. Way to go Kate! Luke has his final lesson for the year tomorrow. We'll see how far he's come along. Click HERE to see more pics and vidoes.

Luke's new wheels...

2011-06-22T21:58:00.000-05:00

We got Luke a Power Wheels F-150 for this 3rd birthday. Here's a short video of Luke and Kate driving around the front yard. Makes me laugh when Kate clips Luke's front end when she passes him.

Kate, will you help me????

2011-03-24T17:40:00.003-05:00

We are so glad we got this on video as we were laughing so hard watching Luke try to pick up a "FAKE" plant that we have in our dining room. Luke was in there playing with his cars when he accidentally knocked over the plant and he just couldn't, should say wouldn't, touch the actual plant to pick it up. He tried and tried to upright the plant by picking it up from the base, but it just wasn't happening. In comes Kate to save the day...

It's been a while...

2011-03-22T14:16:00.028-05:00

Ok, it's been a while since our last post, but we're back. It's been a busy couple of months so here's a recap of what's been going on in the life of the Pittman's....

We caught a Jason Aldean show at the end of January at the BOK Center in Tulsa, OK. Great show! Opening act was Eric Church and he was pretty good as well.

We had our first good snow of the year that kept the kids out of school for a few days.

Kate and John took in an AR game which of coarse, we lost. Kate said she had a good time.

Then we had our second, record setting, snowfall of the year. Again, kids were out of school for a few days.

John took Luke to the Model Train Expo at the Clarion Inn. Luke was in wonderland with all those trains. He even got to run a few of them.

Dinner at Shogun's turned out better than we expected. We have some very picky eaters and it took some sweet talking, but they ate. Luke actually ate just about everything that was thrown his way.

We took the kids to a Women's Razorback basketball game. Once again the Hogs lost, but we had a good time. Kate really enjoyed the court seats which allowed her to see Sue E up close.

Luke got a new hair cut. Kate wanted hers buzzed to, but just a little underneath. It didn't happen. See what his hair looked like in the previous pic?

A roller skating b-day party for our friend Nicholas was a lot of fun.

Another b-day party for our friend Bryce. This was at Jump Zone...that place is crazy! Luke also had a b-day party for one of his classmates. Two trips to Jump Zone in two weeks.

We got out to the park in Bella Vista last week when the weather was near perfect! Kids enjoyed riding their bikes and playing at the play ground.

Looks who's potty training!

2011-02-01T18:53:00.004-06:00

Luke has been potty training the past couple of weeks and doing a good job. It all started at his Mother's Day out program where he's been in a dry diaper for the past two weeks and racking up a lot of smiley stamps for using the "big boy" potty. He's had a couple of accidents here and there, but overall doing great!

Snow Day!!!

2011-01-22T10:39:00.004-06:00

The past couple of days has brought us some snow. Enough snow to shut down most of Bentonville, which doesnt' take much. However, the kids seemed to enjoy their snow days...

Kate with her neighbor/friend Maddie.

Kate running to rescue little Lily

Luke needs a set of snow shoes

Little Gym Show Week

2011-01-20T21:34:00.005-06:00

Well this week wrapped up Kate's first semester at Little Gym. For the last six months, Kate has been going weekly to learn ballet, tap and even a little gymnastics. This past Tuesday was Kate's closing performance. We're so proud of our little Kate. She did a great job and next semester is right around the corner.

Kate and her class ringing the bells

Ballet performance...

Now a little tap...

After ballet and tap, the class headed over to the gym for some gymnastics.

Kate doing her back handspring

Hand stand

The balance beam, her favorite.

All the little gymnast.

Kate loved her medal!

For Meme....

2010-12-30T08:08:00.000-06:00

Here is a little video of Kate. She is really into performing and made us dress up for the show and she changed clothes twice. Too bad she forgot her pants...

Merry Christmas....

2010-12-20T21:46:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas from our family to yours

Remember Jesus is the Reason for the Season

Cruise Pics

2010-12-19T17:20:00.004-06:00

We had never been on a cruise. It is an experience, for sure. I kinda felt like we were in the film WALL-E, where everything is done for them and they can eat constantly, all day long. I'm not saying I didn't like it, I'm saying I could get use to it. Something else I could not get over - how huge the ship is. I mean, how does an 18 floor building stay afloat?

Here is the group of people we traveled with - there was 27 of us. This is also the route we took. We were not able to stop at the first island - Princess Cays - which my friend Karen said was the best - because of bad weather. I was really bummed about it.

Our room. I thought it was very spacious. Plus, we had a balcony.
They had a giant tv outside by the pool. We watched several movies out

here, so much fun. Watching football with the Huertas.

It was the Steelers and they won.
John & Denise...diehard fans.

Me watching the sun set.

The back of the ship - look at this awesome pool. They were setting up for a wedding.

John at the front of the ship. I was scared to stand where he is for fear I would accidentally fall over.The atrium of our ship. It was really beautiful.

Look how large this thing is. How deep does the water have to be?This was one of our formal nights. John and I are in the middle. I have a blue dress on. The ship was moving back and forth so bad, I thought we were going to fall off the stairs.
The hallway to our room, it went on forever.

I did this a lot. They had this fabulous pizza place and I had at least a slice a day.

John at Grand Turk

We had a great time. I missed my children a lot! Thank you to my family and John's family for watching our kids. We really appreciate it.

Cruising

2010-12-03T21:31:00.006-06:00

People, it has been a busy last couple of months. I can't make myself blog. We are leaving at 7 am tomorrow for our first cruise for 7 days without my children. They are with their grandma tonight and I miss them already. I don't think I'm going to be able to stand it.

Here's a brief look at last couple of weeks.

Thanksgiving table of food. You would think we had 40 people here from the food. Which was delish.

This is the only picture we really took at Thanksgiving.

Chuck E Cheese

Just for fun - Pirate face.

Me & Daddy

Sissy's birthday.

Luke had tubes put in his ears this week.

Have a great week, be back soon!

Thanksgiving lunch with Kate

2010-11-21T22:21:00.003-06:00

Last Friday, we had the opportunity to join Kate at her school for a little Thanksgiving luncheon. Her class performed a couple of Thanksgiving songs and were treated to a Thanksgiving dinner consisting of, you guessed it, McDonalds!

This is Kate's place mat that she made showing what she is thankful for.

Here's a pic of Kate and her class enjoying their Thanksgiving McDonalds.

Kate and her class performing some songs.

Although this wasn't a Thanksgiving song, it was a good one.
a-tootie-tot, a-tootie-tot...

Posted by John

Great Boots at Target

2010-11-16T13:25:00.006-06:00

Target has some great boots right now. I picked out like 8 different pairs, but then couldn't get them loaded...then I figured it out and I'm too tired to do it. So I will leave you with the one pair that I MUST have:

The color is Taupe, which means you can wear with black or brown...I just made that rule up. They would look so cute with all the other imaginary clothes I have! John, you can buy them here.

PS - $49.99 - what a steal...get them in two colors!

Happy Birthday John

2010-11-11T12:50:00.003-06:00

Today is John's Birthday! The kids helped us make his favorite birthday cake - yellow cake with chocolate icing. We had a big lunch today with cake for dessert. Happy Birthday John!

Really?

2010-11-10T21:39:00.003-06:00

In 24 days I will be on on my first cruise...

Did you hear about the ship that got stranded at sea with only SPAM and no working bathrooms? I'm really nervous.

You caught me!

2010-11-09T11:58:00.001-06:00

I found Luke in his room today reading his favorite book - which is a look & find book. The kicker is he is NOT suppose to have his passy or blanket unless he is sleeping. Notice he has his blanket too. Little stinker.

Letters to Santa

2010-11-09T11:55:00.002-06:00

This year Santa can send your child a letter. Click here for all the details.

Rapunzel

2010-11-04T14:57:00.003-05:00

Kate had a little birthday cash and she wanted Rapunzel hair...and the costume.....and the shoes.

I would climb up her hair and save her!

Pumpkin patch

2010-11-02T09:28:00.000-05:00

We went with some friends with a small pumpkin patch one day before Halloween. It was so hot! They had a "maze" made out of tall grass. Here is Kate and Lilly running through it.

Look how tall I am!
Audrey, Kate & Lilly

Emily and Evan - he just got his new glasses...so cute!

Kids running through the maze.

Group picture - Sullivan and Audrey on bottom. Lilly, Kate and Luke on top.

Luke & Kate

Lilly, Kate & Audrey

The gang again.

Kate's 4th Birthday Party

2010-11-01T18:37:00.005-05:00

Whew! October was a busy month! We literally had something going on every weekend. I am so tired thinking about it. We also usually have a pumpkin carving party and a birthday party for Kate. This year we decided to combine the two. It was crazy. Next year - two parties...small ones.

October did have some gorgeous weather, so we decided to have her party outside. We weren't able to blow up the bouncy house, but I don't think the kids missed it. Looking back, I bet we could have, the grass wasn't that wet.

When they arrived, all the kids were going to decorate their own party favor bag. This is what it looked like. The wind was blowing pretty good. One of my cute Halloween table cloths blew off. Then the stamps and crayons were flying. At one point I thought to myself....can I go in and just cry? But I made it through and kept trucking.

Here is my nephew decorating his hand...and his bag.

The got spider rings and vampire teeth along with a pumpkin that they painted and decorated to put into their bag.
Birthday Girl really concentrating on decorating her bag.

We also have a small little water table that I used to put in deer corn. This was a HUGE hit. We buried little pumpkins and skeletons and spiders in there. The smaller kids loved it. John, not so much, he had to clean up all the corn.

Kate's cake. She was telling everyone she was having a princess party, but really it wasn't. It was a Halloween theme party with a Princess cake. Tiana to be exact.

Picture time. Here is most of the kids that came...we are missing a few that were too busy playing to stop and get a picture. Or the little girl that Luke made get up so he could sit by Kate.

Also, special shout out to all my Mom friends who helped me throughout the party. AND to my Sister. Check out the cute things she made for my party. I was trying to keep it simple. Pizza and fruit for the kids and chili for the adults. She carved a pumpkin out and used it as a cooler and put in Root Beer - so cute. She also made the cutest ghost strawberries. Too bad I didn't get to have any. Go here to check them out.

Pumpkin Carvin Time

2010-10-28T20:25:00.004-05:00

Well it's just a few days before Halloween and we're just now getting a chance to carve a pumpkin. We had planned on carving one last Sunday, but Kate's birthday party kind of took up the whole afternoon. So with Mommy and Luke off at Wal-Mart, Kate and I went out to the garage and carved us a pumkin.

Kate did really well with the pumkin carving, she actually drew the nose, got her hands in there and pulled out the pumkin guts and even pulled out the carved parts. I think she was happy with the final result.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

posted by John

Early Morning Birthday Surprise

2010-10-26T21:31:00.003-05:00

So on Saturday morning, we woke Kate to a Happy Birthday cake and song. She remembered how we had done this with Luke (see it here) and really wanted us to wake her up the same way on her birthday. So here's a little video of Kate waking up on her 4th birthday.

4 years goes by so fast

2010-10-23T07:00:00.000-05:00

My baby girl is 4 years old today. I can't believe how quick the last four years have flown by.

Here are things about Kate

She started out as a picky eater, but her appetite is improving.

Some of her favorite things to eat - peanut butter & jelly sandwich, easy on the peanut butter heavy on the jelly, Grilled Cheese, Apples without the skin, Cheese Pizza, Pop tarts, Strawberry Milk is still her favorite drink and she regularly tries to order it when we go to restaurants, Cheese crackers, Candy, brownies, cupcakes, donuts (chocolate with sprinkles), Cheeseburger, Chicken nuggets

She is learning to ride her bike with training wheels.

She is taking dance/ballet and gymnastics class, but gymnastics is her favorite.

She loves to run.

She loves to wear dresses, but they have to be long or she will put a pair of pants on with them.

She wants her hair to be really long but she hates pulling it out of her face.

She has two things she sleeps with everynight - her Kelly doll and a bear (which she sometimes calls Oliver)

She loves music and ask for us to play Radio Disney in the car.

If she doesn't have music on, she will usually hum or sing to herself.

She loves to watch tv and movies.

Her favorite shows are on Disney.

She loves all things Princesses - her favorite is still Tiana.

She taunts Luke a lot.

She loves to play with Luke.

She helps Luke with new words.

She loves to go to Playgroup and be among friends and play with their toys.

She is a shy at first little girl, who opens up quickly and can be very social.

She does not like to take a nap.

Sometimes at night, she comes and asks John to lay down with her.

She loves imaginative play.

She loves water.

She is very competitive.

She loves to play in the dirt.

She loves to cook.

She loves to make crafts.

She has been a blessing to our family and we are so proud of her.

These pictures were taken this last weekend at my cousin's wedding.

Boot check

2010-10-19T16:24:00.003-05:00

I need some new boots and these will work out fine. You can buy them here for me.

PS - they are on sale. Under $100. Awesome, right?

Happy October

2010-10-04T12:28:00.006-05:00

I love the month of October. You can finally start wearing jackets and boots. Our month is always busy, we have my Dad's birthday, Kate's Birthday, Pumpkin Carving Party, Halloween, plus football games every weekend! Going to be a fun month!

Last week, my nephew Baby Levi, had a procedure done at Children's hospital. You can read my sister's blog about it here.

My mother was watching Jacob, Kate & Luke while my dad and I went down to ACH. J, K & L made mud pies. Mother said - Kate loved it, Luke thought it was alright, Jacob...not so much.

K & L mixing their mud pies

Kate's hands

Putting her mud pie into it's container

There it is drying in the sun

I guess they were tired afterwards...eating raisins watching tv.

All cleaned up

Look at those toes...I could eat them up.

What I Wore Wednesday

2010-09-29T12:23:00.002-05:00

Welcome back to What I Wore Wednesday. I'm participating again. I only have one outfit. But I'm really proud of it.

ME:

I bought this Banana Republic dress at a second hand store for $5.00 YIPPEEE!

Black tank top underneath - Target

Shoes - Payless

Luke:

Polo shirt - thrifted

Shorts - from nephew

Shoes - Stride rite

Kate:

Smocked sleeveless dress - ebay .99

Sweater - target

Shoes - target

John:

So he doesn't have anything on thrifted, but his shirt is from high school he said :)
Yellow shirt: Eddie Bauer

Dress pants - Dillards

Shoes - Dillards

Check out everyone else over at The Pleated Poppy! Click Here

Singing

2010-09-28T08:20:00.003-05:00

Sunday, Kate's MDO had a special service to recognize their teachers and staff. The 3 & 4 year olds were singing two songs. Here is Kate talking to her new friend Oliver waiting to leave.

Getting everyone on stage. Kate is in the middle of all these boys.
Here she is. She said she couldn't sing and do the little motions because she had no room.

She sees us!

All the kids did very well.

Check out this monkey!

2010-09-27T09:01:00.002-05:00

Whew! What a weekend! We were busy! Razorback game, MDO Sunday Singing, Park. I only have one picture to share right now, but I will get the others up!

Here is Luke at the park sliding down the slide. Notice he is hanging on the top, and he is literally swinging from the slide, then letting go and sliding down the slide. Thankfully, this is on the small one. Happy Monday!

Nephews

2010-09-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

I never post enough pictures of my sweet little nephews. They came over Saturday to watch the game.

College Football Wreath

2010-09-21T12:26:00.002-05:00

GO HOGS GO!

I made this wreath to bring a little football cheer to our neighborhood.

It was super simple (like you had any doubt) and you can do it too!

Time Waster

2010-09-20T10:50:00.002-05:00

Want to find out how fast you type? Go here and take the typing test!

It's fun. Then have your husband take it.

I scored an 83 with 4 errors so my adjusted speed is 79, tell me yours!

Day 3-7 Beach Vacation

2010-09-20T08:05:00.001-05:00

We drove over to Anna Maria Island after a couple of days in Orlando. Here's where we stay every time.

These pics are out of order. This was Luke during flight home.

And Kate - she has on her goggles.

We stayed at a hotel near the airport on the last night. Here's the famous luggage rack picture.

A Harley Store.

We were able to eat here one day.

This was our house and private pool. The kids loved it.

They loved the beach too!

Dinner at Sandbar

We had a really good time and we will be going again. Soon I hope!

A Good Book

2010-09-14T07:45:00.000-05:00

I just finished this book The Help by Kathryn Stockett and really enjoyed it. So much so, that I thought I would share it on my blog.

A brief overview: This book is set in Jackson, Mississippi, in 1962, where there are lines that are not crossed. With the civil rights movement exploding all around them, three women start a movement of their own, forever changing a town and the way women - black and white, mothers and daughters interact.

I loved the characters - they each draw you in to their story. The author writes the dialogue phonetically, so you can get the full southern effect. I was sad when the book was over. I really loved all the characters and long to know how their lives continued. If you are looking for a good book, please check this one out.

Razorback Game

2010-09-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

We went to the Razorback game on Saturday in Little Rock. Even though the kids didn't go with us, we dropped them off at Meme's & Papaw's, we still dressed them up in their razorback gear. I wish I had a better picture of them. This is the only one we took.

Book Club Chapters 50-71

2010-09-13T07:50:00.003-05:00

This is the last section of the book - The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes by Diane Chamberlein. Let's get to it:

1. At the end, we find out Tim was sending Cory money because he thought that she could be his daughter since he was having an affair with Genevieve. Did you see this coming?
NO! I thought that was a good twist. We really never get to see much about Genevieve - only that short time in the cabin before she passed away. I didn't think it was Tim...I just figured he was too selfish to think of anyone else.

2. By the end of the story, what were your feelings about Eve? How had they changed since the beginning?
We really were able to see how Eve grew up. She matured a lot during the book and really pulled herself together and made a good life for her. I did think it was a little immature how it all came out.

3. Were you happy with the way President Russell treated Cory?
It was odd at first, but they do not really know each other. The money was strange and I know he was upset about her asking to go easy on Eve. I can understand where he is coming from. This is new to him too.

4. If you were in Cory's shoes and just found out all of this about the woman who raised you and who you believed to be your mother, how would you react? Would you forgive?
That's a hard question to answer, since I've never been there. I would try to give the woman who raised me the benefit of the doubt, but I know it would take years of therapy to get through it.

5. In your mind, how does the story end? Do they all live happily ever after? Does Cory go on having relationships with her old family and her new family?
Yes, I think she does have a relationship with both of them, separately. It will be hard for her to maintain that though.

6. How do you think Cory has changed throughout the story? Have your feelings about her changed?
I think we go from seeing a weak individual to someone who really does transform right in front of us to a really strong person. She is afraid of everything, very co-dependent on the people in her life. I have always felt sadness for her, but happy that she had a great life.

My thoughts on the book. I felt this last section of the book was rushed a bit - they didn't give as much detail. I can't believe she would turn herself in without having an attorney with her. I can't believe that they didn't show her mother's trial. It was a quick and easy read and a very interesting story. I would give it a 3 1/2 stars out of 5.

Vaction Day 2

2010-09-11T07:40:00.009-05:00

On the second day of our vacation, we went to Walt Disney World. We had reservations at the Princess Breakfast, so we had to get up really early. The park was mainly empty except for parents and little girls dressed as princesses.

Walking to the castleSnow White & Kate - she had her weird smile going on. She didn't know what to do.

Aurora - AKA Sleeping Beauty
Luke just gave her a high five.

Kate & Ariel

I did not know who this was...thank goodness she signed the book - It's Belle.
They gave the little boys swords and the little girls a wand. Luke carried that sword all day...

Luke ran into Pinnochino

The one we made the trip for -TIANNA! Kate loves Tianna. Sometimes she tells people her name is Tianna and Luke's name is Prince Naveen.

Fairy Godmother

Merry go Around - you can't see it, but John is riding the horse, so funny.

The Dumbo ride.

The teacup ride. This is the first time we rode it. It was so much fun.

Notice it was hot. So I put Kate's hair in a ponytail. She really doesn't want me to pull it back. She likes it in her face.
Mickey, Luke, me, Kate, Minnie, John

Luke is kissing Minnie on the nose.

Kate modeling a hat. Before we took our trip, she wanted to find a new dress to wear to see the Princesses. This is what she picked out.

Playing on the playground

Woody and Jesse - it was so hot at this time. They were about to have a major meltdown, but they held it together. Buzz was over at the other area in the park and we didn't get to see him.

Then the parade started. Woody came by to say hi.

Then we went back to the hotel to take a nap and re-group. So we got a shot of the front of WDW on our way back in. Love all the pumpkins.

We walked around another part of the park - looking for Buzz. I guess he had already turned in for the night. We were waiting for the fireworks to start, so we grabbed a bite to eat. This is where Luke had his meltdown and started crying/screaming, etc. It really only lasted like 2 mins, but it felt like 2 hours. Also, as I looked around, every table had a kid crying, so I wasn't too upset.

Ride #2 on the teacups!

Fireworks about to start

Headed home. Whew, that was a LONG day.

All in all, they did really well. It was warm, but the lines were small and we didn't have to wait long for anything.

Day 1 vacation

2010-09-10T16:55:00.005-05:00

We flew to Sanford/Orlando on Thursday. This was Luke's first flight. He did really well. He had everything he needed, drink/colors/mm's/passy & blanket.

Kate had her Toy Story characters
We stayed at the Coronado Springs Resort

Going swimming

On our way to dinner

This is how Luke eats his ice cream

Trying on ears for size

Snuggled in because tomorrow is Disney!

I'm back!!!

2010-09-09T16:32:00.003-05:00

We are back from our vacation and this picture should explain it all.

We had breakfast with the princesses and it was a little early for Kate...she was so overwhelmed to see all of them in real life. This picture is priceless...more to come when I get them all downloaded.

Did you have a good week?

Chapters 36-50

2010-09-06T21:03:00.002-05:00

Still reading the Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes by Diane Chamberlin.
Here are this week's questions:

1. Have your feelings about Tim changed throughout this last section of chapters?
I'm really impressed that he did not rat her out. However, I still think he's a deadbeat loser and was using her.

2. Do you agree with Cory and her behavior as an adult and her life with Ken? Is she justified in cutting her mother and father out of her life?
Hmmm, I don't like the fact that she has basically traded her parents for Ken. I don't really like Ken, I think he is manipulating her and making her dependant on him rather than really helping her. I understand her need to distance herself from her family for awhile and trying to go at her fears alone, however I don't feel like she is doing that.

3. At what point do you think Cory decided to spend less time with her mother?
Not sure, I think it was good for her to go away to school, but I think Ken had a lot to do with it too.

4. What do you think is Eve's biggest fear?
Now that Cory's older and has removed herself from her, she really has nothing to lose, I have said Cory all along, but Cory is a grown woman now. I don't know what her fear is.

5. When the story about Genevieve's body came out, what would you have done if you were Eve? Just sat back and watched things unfold? Would you tell Jack?
I don't think I could have waited that long. But I knew she would just wait...why tell now? She should have told Jack in the beginning.

6. Do you think Eve should tell Jack and confess?
Yes, she needs to get it all out.

Happiest Place on Earth

2010-09-05T17:16:00.001-05:00

We are on vacation!!!! I cannot move on from the Summer until our trip is over. I tried to upload some pics but Blogger is not cooperating, so maybe next time. The kids are having a really good time and doing really well. Pics to come soon. Happy Labor Day!

What I Wore Wednesday

2010-09-01T07:50:00.000-05:00

I'm participating in What I Wore Wednesday from The Pleated Poppy. Last week, I started late. This week I have outfits from Wednesday to Tuesday.

Wednesday

This is what I wore out to dinner

Black Dress - thrifted

Necklace - Polo outlet

Bracelets - Belk's

Shoes - Macy's

Earrings - Silpada

Thursday

We went to the park this day

White tank top: Belk's

Blue sweater: Belk's

Cargo Capri: Ann Taylor Loft
Flip Flops: J Crew

Necklace: Silpada

Earrings: Silpada

Friday

This is what I wore to get my hair done, then went to work for a few hours. It was causal Friday, so I wore Jeans.

Sweater: Old Navy

Shirt: Macy's

Jeans: 7By Mankind

Shoes: Payless

Necklace: Polo Outlet

Earrings: Silver hoops - unknown

Saturday

Hung out with my sister, Luke had to get in the pic, he's posing too.

Black shirt: Target

Shorts: Belk's

Shoes: Macy's

Sunday

Wore this to church

Dress: Kohl's

Black Tank Top: Target

Shoes: Macy's.

Bracelets: Belk's

White Watch: gift

Necklace: gift

Monday:

Went to work for a few hours

Sweater: KMART

Tank top: Ann Taylor Loft

Black Pants: JCP

Shoes: I had heels on while at work (payless) then switched to flats to pick up my kids.

Necklace: Jewelry party can't remember name
Watch: gift

Tuesday:
With kids all day

Black shirt: Target

Brown capris: Ann Taylor Loft

Shoes: Payless

Necklace: etsy

Watch: gift

*Special thanks to my husband who takes all my pics.

**also, almost everyone of these pics were taken at night after a long day...notice hair, etc.

***Blogger is acting weird with my spacing...I cannot fix it, sorry.

Please go here and check out the other bloggers who participate. It's so much fun!

Little Gym-nast

2010-08-31T21:07:00.003-05:00

Kate had her second dance/gymnastics class tonight at Little Gym. John took her and her friend Lilly tonight and they had a great time. She's really enjoying the classes, especially the gymnastics part of the class. Here are a couple of little videos John took tonight.

Kate on the balance beam...

Lilly on the bars and Kate on the balance beam again...

Sleep = Donuts

2010-08-31T08:00:00.000-05:00

Kate gets up almost every night and ask one of us to sleep with her. Honestly, I never go - John always goes. She has a twin bed - it's so small and bright in there. We have tried everything to get her to stay in her bed - teddy bear, night light, music, sound machine, fan, more dolls...nothing works. Recently, we decided to bribe her. At first it was with candy, that lasted a few days. Saturday night, she wanted to sit in big church on Sunday instead of going to Sunday School and we said she could if she slept by herself. She didn't make it, so to Sunday school she went.

Last night, she slept all by herself...and her reward? DONUTS! She was so excited. She got up saying....I get donuts because I slept all by myself!!!

Luke never has a problem sleeping all night or by himself. He did try to tackle this donut...he's not a big sweets fan, but he made a pretty good try.

If anyone out there has some sure fire tricks, let me know. I'm also thinking about a chart with stickers and when she has sleeps 5 times she gets to pick out a small toy? Has that worked for anyone?

Chapters 21-35 - Book Club

2010-08-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

I'm still reading the book - The Secret Life of CeeCee Wikes by Nancy Chamberlin. It's an easy read and a very neat story. This week we are up to chapters 21-35. I'm in an online book club over at Book Beginnings and Bookends, check them out.

Let's get to it:

1. Do you think Tim is the one sending the money?
No, I think it's Marian. I feel like she has figured out a way, probably through SCAPE, to have different addresses. Why would Tim send her money? He's such a deadbeat loser anyway. Marian feels like Eve & Cory are part of the family and when she found out that Eve had already received money before it was a perfect way for her to continue that.

2. So far, there's been a lot of discussion on CeeCee/Eve and her choices. What choice(s) would you make differently from her?
At this point in the story, I don't know. She can't turn the Cory back over to the real father. Which is what I would have done in the beginning...or left the baby at the Governor's house. I think everything she has done since she decided to keep the baby has been 'good' decisions or the very least in the best interest of Cory. She couldn't tell her husband the truth. You have to keep living the lie...the lie just happens to be a life she made up.

3. What do you like about Jack? Are there things about him that you don't like?
I like that he's good with Cory. That he loves Cory and adopted her. I like how he tells Eve the truth regarding her actions and behavior toward Cory. I sometimes dislike his goofy-ness, but that's me.

4. What are the differences between CeeCee/Eve's relationship with Tim and Eve's relationship with Jack?
She's not a kid anymore. Have a baby and being on the run will grow you up fast! So she is not as naive and she has more to worry about than just herself. Her relationship with Jack is more adult and stable. The fling she had with Tim was immature and she realizes now she was being used.

5. Do you think Eve is to blame for Cory's fears? What could she do, specially, to help Cory feel like less than an outsider?
I think to some degree - subconsciously Eve is to blame for Cory's fears. However, she doesn't know anything else. She has been 'on the run' since she was born, so she doesn't know what's normal. I think getting her into a new school where kids are more in line with her intellectually will help, so Cory doesn't feel like an outsider. Maybe get her involved in more self-confidence boosting activities -sports?

6. Do you think Eve appropriately answered Cory's questions about her father? Do you think Cory will question her father more as she grows older?
I think Eve answered them the best she could with the lies she is trying to keep straight. I think Cory, like anyone, would want to know more about their father. What he looked like, what he was like, his parents possibly. I think as she gets older she will become more curious.

**Side note: you know that she is going to become friends/cross paths with the sister when she goes to the fancy new school. I haven't read ahead, but I feel it's coming. Also, what's up with Eve's feet hurting when she gets out of bed? My husband had that one time and we discovered via internet if he stretched his feet before getting out of bed, they didn't hurt. Hee hee, he will love that I put that in here. I know that will turn into something else too.

Have a good week!

Kids to school!

2010-08-27T08:37:00.002-05:00

Kate & Luke started the Fall Session of Mother's Day Out today. Look how excited they were to show off their backpacks!

FYI...Kelly stayed home.

Weekend Roundup

2010-08-27T08:06:00.000-05:00

A few things I found on the web this week - they all have one thing in common - FOOD!

I have got to try this hotdog...as soon as I get off this diet.

I want to have dinner with her this week...check out this menu!

I can't wait to see the Barefoot Contessa's new cookbook that is coming out in October. But here is a sample recipe from it.....yummy!

Zucchini is abundant during the summer...and i know I would eat my veggies if they were all made like this - Chocolate Zucchini Cake.

I couldn't wish you a good weekend, without showing you my favorite monkeys. Kate wore her nightgown over her dress all day. Luke decided at the last minute, he would stick his head in the shot.

Have a good weekend!

What I Wore Wednesday

2010-08-25T08:09:00.000-05:00

I've started following a blog The Pleated Poppy she posts her outfits for the week. It helps her 'get dressed' everyday. I don't have that problem. I like to get dressed, but I look at the post for outfit ideas. I have a limited wardrobe. I am a stay at home mom who works part time. I sometimes have meetings, so I don't really have two sets of clothes, I just combine the two. My wardrobe needs help. I'm planning a big shopping trip to Dallas soon, so hopefully it will improve. Therefore, I thought I would participate. Please offer up any advice...

Sunday

I wore this to church.

This black shirt gathers a little at the neck line - target

Skirt - Kohl's

Shoes - Steve Madden, had these forever, they have flowers on the toes

After church I took off the skirt and shoes and put on army green Capri's and flip flops - no pic - and kept the shirt on.

Monday

Since my kids are out of school this week, I stayed home. I did run some errands - thrift store & WM.

Black tank top - Target

Mauve/grey tank toy - Ann Taylor Loft

Black belt - Kohl's

Skirt - old navy - had this forever too, wore it when I was pregnant during both pregnancies.

Shoes - macys (?) had these forever

Tuesday

I had a meeting today at lunch, so my sister took this picture.

Black dress - Target - I paid less than $8.00 for this dress, I was like....does it have a hole in it? Nope. It has a built-in shaper...all the way down. It really holds me in.

Black shoes - Payless - I picked these up last night. They are black peep toes with a snakeskin feel to them. Love them.

Bracelets - they are a little edgy...sissy and I each got some at Belk's. See the close up here.

Tuesday afternoon

I wore this to School Open House

Purple shirt - JCP

Black check - menswear shorts - JCP

Black shoes - Macy's.

So that's all I have this week. I will try again next week to see how it goes.

Clothes for Kelly

2010-08-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

Kate has a favorite baby doll. Her name is Kelly (named after the Mom of one of her friends?!?!) She stripped Kelly's clothes off as soon as she could and now Kelly goes around naked and with crazy hair. She's not really naked, she has a flesh-tone bodysuit. Today, Kate make Kelly some clothes out of magazines. She cut them and taped them to Kelly. Project Runway....here we come!

Chapters 11-20 of Book Club

2010-08-22T08:15:00.000-05:00

I'm really loving this book, The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes, that it is really hard to put it down and not read it further. Questions for the discussion this week:

1. Where do you think Tim and Marty are at this point in the story?
I think they are 'underground'. I need to go back and read the first chapter again, but I think they were just then talking about the trial, which would mean they were only recently caught?? I can't remember.

2. What were your thoughts as CeeCee was helping Genevieve deliver her baby?
My first thought was WOW, she is really having this baby! I have been slow putting 1+1 together and I didn't realize that the baby was Corinne until Naomi said she would have to take care of the baby. It was so heartbreaking to me that the mother died. Knowing that the baby would grow up with a mommy and with what CeeCee losing her mother at a young age, I thought she would take the baby to a hospital or to the governor. I didn't think she would keep it.

3. After Genevieve died what would you have done with her baby if you were in CeeCee's shoes?
I guess the exact same thing. She has no one she can lean on. I really knew she would not go to the police and let them know about Tim. I would have probably went to Naomi also.

4. Why do you think CeeCee/Eve is holding onto hope that Tim will come to get her?
Because she is young. She has no idea what she has gotten herself into. Since they are both underground...she thinks they could be together underground.

5. How do you think Eve will establish her new identity in Virginia?
I think she will get that waitress job and meet a guy and fall in love and that will be the only father that Cory ever knows.

6. What do you think of CeeCee/Eve now after she has gone through with the kidnapping, delivery of the baby, the escape and relocation?
It's really hard not to like her. Just looking at the facts and not knowing her....it is an awful thing and I should be mad at her, but this character is so likable. I want her to have the baby and a fabulous life with CeeCee, even though I know that she has a father who is a Governor and siblings and should go home and probably live a better life than being on the 'run and paranoid' all the time.

I really ready to read the rest of the book, I don't know if I can make it :)

Fair

2010-08-20T22:20:00.006-05:00

The Pittman and Key family went to the Fair. It was warm, but survived it.

Kate, Me, Luke, Kris & Jacob
Luke was too small to ride this ride, but Kate and Jacob loved it.

We were able to sneak him onto this ride, because he was riding with Kate and Jacob. The guy asked me if he could walk and sit up on his own...uh, yeah.

He loves to watch the bunnies, this is a game where the prize is a bunny....what kind of prize is that?

We got him into this ride too...Kate and Jacob didn't want to sit up front, neither did Luke, he didn't win.

Sissy & Me. I was drinking some lemonade, it was good, but not nearly as good as the lemonade I had at the arch on 4th of July. Seriously, best lemonade ever, all others will be compared to it.

This year, they had a bouncy house area set up. The kids really enjoyed it.

Every time Luke came down the slide, he would put his feet up really high.

Petting zoo

Good times. Have a great weekend!

Weekend Roundup

2010-08-20T08:33:00.003-05:00

Wow, this week is flying by...or should i say "Where did the Summer go?"

I found some cute things around the web that I thought I would share:

What a cute idea for your jewelry...check it out here.

One of my favorite bloggers does it again....I want to have a party like this.

Since John could work anywhere that has 'high speed Internet' why don't we do this?

Also, love what the new wedding couple left the wedding in...scroll through the post to see....wish I had thought of this.

We went to the fair last night...hopefully will post pics later...if I get out of my pjs...first things first.

The Kids are Back!

2010-08-19T08:16:00.003-05:00

My children have been at my parents house since Saturday. I picked them up yesterday and I was glad to see them. John and I had such a good time while they were gone (is that wrong?). We went out to lunch, dinner and to the movies (two of them!). We enjoyed our time, but also was glad to see our babies. Thank you Meme & Papaw for watching them. I know they had a good time. One of the projects I wanted to accomplish before they returned was cleaning out my closet. I did not get it done, so I did it last night. The kids helped me. Here is a picture of them with the things they liked.

The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes

2010-08-16T16:21:00.003-05:00

I've joined an online book club. To me, it makes perfect sense, because I like to read and I don't have a lot of time to go over to someones house and discuss it. I stumbled upon it through Blue-Eyed Bride it is called Book Beginnings and Bookends.

The book this month is The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes written by Nancy Chamberlin. I had no idea what the book was about. Our first assignment was read up Chapters 1-10. It is a very easy read and so far I'm really interested in reading through the book. It was really hard to stop after Chapter 10.

PS - I will be discussing the book, so don't read any further if you want to read the book.

Here are the questions from this week:

1. What was your first impression of Tim?
I thought he was a nice regular customer at CeeCee's cafe who was nice to her. I thought he really liked her and was generally wanted to help her. I did find it odd that he was much older than her - she is only 16, but I really wanted it to work out for them. (in the beginning)

2. If you were in CeeCee's position, would you be willing to help your boyfriend in the way that she is willing to help Tim?
This is a hard one, I feel like I understand why she helped him. It is the first person that she has really loved since her mother passed away, so I feel like she's clinging to the 'family' aspect of it. I, on the other hand, would NEVER do that. She was so worried about how she would continue to see Tim after the kidnapping.

3. Why do you think CeeCee is so eager to please Tim?
I think it's a couple of reason - 1 - she is in love with him and feels like Tim and Marty are family and 2 - she feels like she owes him because she thinks he gave her the money to go to school.

4. Who do you think has it harder Tim or CeeCee?
Tim does. He grew up with everything he wanted, family, love, money, vacations, etc. It's only been in the last several years that he has experienced true hardships and he doesn't know how to handle it. CeeCee has always had a hard life. Her father left, she was with her mother through a lengthy battle with cancer, she moved, she was with multiple foster families - she adapts better than Tim.

5. What character trait(s) about CeeCee stuck out the most of you in these first ten chapters?
I think her innocence, although she has been through a lot, she still is a child and in the way she is so honest with her feelings and emotions allows her innocence to shine through.

6. Do you think CeeCee is as mature as she seems?
Yes, I believe she is mature...but she is young and innocent.

Weekend Roundup

2010-08-13T08:05:00.000-05:00

Here are some things around the web that I really enjoyed look at this week...hope you do too!

Martha Stewart has a new website out that is dedicated to families called Living in the Family Room. Check it out here.

Saw these pencils and loved them. Can you believe someone can do this...check it out here.

What a fun way to keep up with your weekly menus! I can see my sister doing this....Check it out here.

My friend Melody and I had a Sip & See for my nephew Baby Levi on Saturday. It was really cute, we pulled out our china and had little tea cups with little sandwiches and cute cookies and yummy petit fours. I did not take my camera therefore I took no pics :( But my sister did. Check out the pics here.

Have a great weekend! My children are spending a few days at Meme's. I've got a list of things I want to do while they are gone...#1 - sleep in.

Stowaway

2010-08-03T07:23:00.004-05:00

Looks like John had a stowaway on his trip to Hot Springs...

Need shoes?

2010-08-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

I know, it's not really the time to buy sandals/flip flops, but it stays warm here for a long time. Plus, these are great buys....

Victoria's Secret

This is such a cute sandal - $6.99

$19.99

$20.00

Seriously, what is this?

Is it a boot? sandal? Shoe? Who knows, but it can be yours for $109.99

You can find all these and more here.

BabyLevi

2010-07-31T09:19:00.002-05:00

My children love their new cousin...baby Levi.

Have a great weekend!

Dinner

2010-07-13T22:46:00.002-05:00

Who thought..."hmmm, I think we should put Cheese Balls in a container that looks like a barrel and sell them!"

Whoever it was...Luke thanks you!

2010-07-08T07:53:00.007-05:00

We went to St. Louis for 4th of July. We went last year and had a good time. Our friend Kirk went with us. We missed the Winberrys...they couldn't make it this year because they went Cabo....

The weather was beautiful and our hotel was right next to the arch. We enjoyed all the 4th of July activities.

First up, the Parade. Kate & Luke liked it. It was a movie theme, and they had "The Little Mermaid" float and Kate was so excited that she got to see Ariel.

After the parade, we went over to the arch to watch the air show. These monkeys were not playing well. They were hot and tired. We went back to the hotel and took a nap.

Headed over to the arch to watch the John Legend concert then fireworks. The weather wasn't too hot, it was really nice.

Looking for the perfect spot to put our blanket down.

The natives were restless.

The next day we rode the carriage ride and played in the fountains.

We also went to the Magic House, the kids loved it. It's has all these different activities they can do. Really a neat concept. We will be going back there. We didn't see all of it and I felt like we were there all day.

Had to get a "pirate pose" smile.

Luke is fishing here. Once you caught your fish, you could 'release' it up stream and watch it travel back to the pond.

They had a baby nursery. Kate and Luke both loved this area. Kate called her baby - "Baby Levi".

Luke was suctioning his baby's nose out. Just like we do him. So cute. Then he rocked it and was singing to it. I could not get him to leave this room.

Kate at their "bank" making a deposit.

They also had a grocery store, a restaurant, a library, a tire repair shop, ice cream shop, a kitchen, that was some of the areas we really enjoyed.

Our only family picture.

Luke has firecrackers on his outfit. So cute!

On our way to watch the fireworks. Lots of people this night. Check out all the stuff I'm carrying. I LOVE my LL Bean bag.

This was our spot...I had just got back from standing in line for 45 mins for a foot long corn dog and a lemonade. It was so hot this night.

This night we heard the B-52s. They were really good.

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-02T07:43:00.003-05:00

We are heading here today for the 4th festivities.

Happy 4th of July!

Thank you to all those who served!

a bug, a motorcycle and a jeep...

2010-06-30T22:38:00.002-05:00

Luke-a-palooza

2010-06-29T22:45:00.005-05:00

We wanted to have a little party for Luke for his birthday. Cars theme.

Welcome to Luke-a-palooza. Lots of Pictures.

The gang eating

The cake - Luke has been playing with those cars non-stop.

It was so hot, we put up the slip n slide. Luke didn't put on his swimsuit, and he was crawling down the slip and slide.

And the bouncy house

Love this picture of him blowing out the candle.

He just stuck his hand in the cake and started licking his hand.

Check out the icing mustache - he's playing with that car...

Here is his new ride. He loves it. Parks it next to his crib at night.

Let them have cake....for breakfast!

2010-06-28T20:27:00.003-05:00

For Luke's birthday, I wanted to make him a Cars Cake. I bought the mold and baked a cake.

After like $40.00 later, I started icing it. I have NEVER done anything like this before.

But you know what? Your kids don't care. They don't even care if it doesn't taste good...or look pretty! I stayed up late finishing this cake so it would be ready for Luke's birthday on Saturday. I was planning on making another one for his party...but it takes a lot of time and i chose to sleep.

When Kate woke up in the morning, she wanted to see Luke's cake. She was SOOOO excited. When he woke up we took the cake into his room and sang Happy Birthday...

...and then they had cake for breakfast.

Steal Your Dollar City

2010-06-27T21:32:00.004-05:00

For Luke's 2nd birthday we thought it would be fun to take the kids to Silver Dollar City. It has been years since I've been there, so I was excited to see what I remembered. We wanted to do something special for Luke because, you know those second kids don't get near the fun and exciting stuff the first one does. However, Luke really wasn't tall enough to ride anything except the "choo choo" and he could have cared less if he did ride something.

It was hot! Really hot, but my kids did not get sunburned! YEAH!!! Probably because their crazy mother kept putting sunscreen on them all day.

Here John is riding the elephant - we could not get him off there!

Here's Kate and John waiting in line to ride the rollercoaster...that she decided after waiting...she didn't want to ride it.

They have a ball pit area that we could NOT get our kids out of. Kate loved this machine, it was a gun that shot out these balls. She looks really hot here, but really was wet from playing in the water. Well, she probably is hot too.

Luke loved this area too. The hoses would suck up the balls, he thought that was so cool. Of course, the guy running it told Luke to stop throwing the balls at people....

Here we are on the "choo choo". You know where you ride the train, then it gets robbed? While we were being 'robbed' the guy in front of us was turned around watching the robbers and he was laughing and Kate noticed he was missing some teeth...so she pointed it out to me..."LOOK MOM, HE LOST A TOOTH" I wish the robbers would have shot me.

This is Luke's 'cheese' face. I have no idea why he gives us the pirate eye.

All in all, it was a good trip. I was really happy that they endured the heat and only fought a little and went straight to sleep.

The traditional pose...riding on the cart at the hotel. They love doing this. Now they have started posing. Silly kids.

Guess who had a baby...

2010-06-23T21:34:00.002-05:00

Sissy!

She had a little boy - Levi Scott Key - he weighed 8lbs 10 oz. Sissy did not find out the sex of the baby. She wanted to be surprised. She wanted the doctor to say...."It's a boy...girl..." Well, the Dr. said - "It's a Levi!" She was really thrown off. Plus, she really thought she was having a little girl. But she is happy to have this little monkey too. Check out her blog here.

As soon as Kate got home from school, she said "CAN WE GO SEE THE NEW BABY!"

She was dying to hold him. She couldn't remember his name.

We kept Luke at home, he had a runny nose.

I have so many things to post this week. It was Luke's birthday on Saturday, so we went to Silver Dollar City. Then we had a little party for him on Tuesday night. So I have lots of pics.

What a great day to have a baby!

Luke is 2!

2010-06-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

I can't believe this baby

Is this little boy

Where did the time go? Luke is such a monkey, he will try anything. He loves older kids and will do whatever they do. He loves cars, motorcycles and movies. He is a picky eater and his favorites are chicken nuggets, spaghettios, oatmeal, corn on the cob, breakfast bars, fruit, cereal, cheetos, fruit snacks. His vocabulary is not huge, but he is starting to say some words and he babbles all the time. He doesn't want you to rock him to sleep, he goes right down and still sleeps with his blanket and his passy along with two handfuls of cars. He is such a sweet little boy and gives the sweetest fish kisses. Happy Birthday Lukey!

I've said it before and I will say it again, The days are long, but the years are short!

Swim lessons

2010-06-16T14:50:00.003-05:00

Kate started swimming lessons this week. I have no pictures of her in the pool or actually 'taking' the swim lesson because I have to drop her off and I'm not allowed to watch her. This makes me so sad, but I know it's the best thing for her. She is very excited to go and really is enjoying it.

For the Grandparents

2010-06-15T13:25:00.003-05:00

Kate is the second one on the left front row...not dancing, but watching the girl dancing.

Rainbow Cake

2010-06-14T21:24:00.005-05:00

In honor of Kate's dance recital, I wanted to do something special...so I made a Rainbow Cake. I found it on Meg's blog. She makes it in honor of the last day of school, you can see her post here (and step by step pics).

You take two cake mixes and you mix it up according to the directions. To get the vibrant colors, you have to use the Gel food coloring. Divide the mix up in 6 different bowls, then bake each color in a different pan.

Kate really enjoyed this baking project.

John liked it too

ROYGBIV

Here it is with it's icing...we were cutting it and eating it and forgot about the pictures!

Luke really liked it too!

I had some extra batter left over (I didn't do the I, in the ROYGBIV) so I made Kate Pink Cupcakes too.

Dance Recital

2010-06-13T21:52:00.006-05:00

Kate has been taking dance since August. Every Monday at 3, we've been going to dance. I have been dragging Luke there and trying to keep him from busting in on the session or bothering people and tearing the place apart. They ripped up the road in front of the dance studio, so there were times, I swear we needed hard hats at times to walk through the construction site to attend class. We had to park blocks away at times.
We bought several leotards, because she wanted one with long sleeves.
We had a purple tutu made.
We have several pairs of tights.
We have ballet and tap shoes.
We ordered an expensive, adorable outfit.
We had pictures made.
We invited family.
We had flowers for her once she left stage.
We attended the dress rehearsal the day of the recital at 3:30.
At 6:00 pm she performed....uh, I mean stood there....

See...they are cute. The girl beside her...is dancing like it's her job! She is the one who had a 45 minute nap before performing, she was refreshed. Kate was tired and hungry and overwhelmed with the hundreds of people there. Seriously, hundreds. Huge dance academy.

After the recital, we had a photo session

Sissy and Kate - Sissy's baby will be here on June 23...we still don't know what it is! She shouldn't be picking up Kate.

Me, Sissy, Kate and Meme

Me, Kate & John

The Prettiest Girl in the World

Going to get something to eat.

Whew! I've learned a few things from this experience. I'm not cut out to be a "stage mom". I dressed my kid in the parking lot...she could not get into her car seat w/that tutu. I fixed her hair right before she went on stage..in a ponytail. And she has no makeup on. I just couldn't bring myself to put lipstick and fake eyelashes on the little girl who wanted to wear a happy meal shrek watch up on stage.

The other thing I continue to learn....hobbies are expensive.

And I can make friends anywhere...I'm really going to miss the other mamas at dance!

Cousins

2010-06-09T22:08:00.001-05:00

I remember when these kids were born. They are growing too fast...

Misc. stuff

2010-05-27T21:57:00.003-05:00

Here are some links that I thought were interesting:

Sex & the City? Who's going? Here is a look at that fabulous wardrobe...click here.

Here is a site for readers...share recommendations on books, join a book club...looks cool. See it here.

Ok, two sites for readers....this one has a cool name...flashlight worthy -a site that has lists of book recommendations. Check it out here.

We like to rent houses when we travel and there are many sites to do this from, but I just found a new one to try out. Can't wait...see it here.

Have a great Memorial Day!

I've included some pics of my kids and what they've been up to lately.

Being monkeys

Growing up too fast.

Really loving T-ball

Little Big Girl

2010-05-13T12:27:00.002-05:00

This pictures are so small, but you get the idea. These are her school pictures. Check out her socks. She has to wear socks with everything.

zzz

2010-05-03T10:05:00.002-05:00

Here's little buddy sleeping...so cute!

I took this last one like four times, he never woke up. It was so dark in there.

Tiny Dancer

2010-04-28T20:32:00.002-05:00

Kate has been in dance since the beginning of time...(it seems like that long) and her recital is coming up in June, but we had pictures made this week.

Here she is patiently waiting for her balloon.

Happy Anniversary!

2010-04-24T09:57:00.001-05:00

Six years ago today, John and I got married. I love this picture. I stole it from Sissy. I'm struggling with my dress and John is just happily holding my flowers. This really describes our marriage.
Happy Anniversary John...love you.

Picture day

2010-04-22T09:16:00.001-05:00

I have the cutest little boy in the World! See for yourself!

There were taken at school. Such a big boy!

Favorite Blog of the Moment

2010-04-21T08:14:00.001-05:00

Since I've read The Happiness Project which I blogged about here, I have been on this "happiness" kick. I found this new website and it's about things that make this guy happy...simple things like - finding a curly fry in your french fries. So cute, I hope you enjoy it too.

1000 Awesome Things

He also just released a new book, so make sure you read down the page to some of the 'awesome' things.

Guess who's booking a vacation?

2010-04-19T20:50:00.002-05:00

We are! To the happiest place on Earth....Disney World!

I never should have told Kate, she ask me everyday if today is the day.

It's hard to plan a vacation.

I need a vacation from my vacation planning.

Mother's Day Ideas

2010-04-19T11:00:00.000-05:00

When is the last time you bought a new wallet? It's something you use pretty much everyday. I found one that is cute, fun and easy to find in your purse. These Kate Spade's last forever.

Get yours here for $155.00

Mother's Day Ideas

2010-04-16T11:00:00.000-05:00

Metallics are all the rage again. Why not put it on the flip flop? I love the idea of something unexpected on the ole' flop.

Check out the sole...looks comfy. Get yours here for only $30.00! (see I told you under $500)

Mother's Day Ideas

2010-04-15T15:27:00.003-05:00

Ladies, tell your husbands to start reading my blog. I'm going to be posting some lovely ideas for Mother's Day. All under $500.00 (hee hee)

First up...

14MM Black Onyx Split Shank Albion Ring

$475.00

Good price for Yurman...heirloom ladies, heirloom.

Easter post

2010-04-13T21:18:00.004-05:00

Pretend like it's the Monday after Easter...I know I'm behind.

Luke, Me, John & Kate

We drove to my parents house on Sunday and had church with them. Kate did not want to wear a dress with short sleeves. Good thing her little dress had a jacket that matched it. Also, she wants tights on (or jeans) she doesn't like her legs exposed. Since the weather has warmed up, it's been really hard to get her to wear short sleeves without a sweater. This is the way it was last year, slowly but surely, she will get there. Luke had a suit on. So cute, the little tie...I could eat him up. He was cranky in the car, so he had his blanket and passy with him the whole day.

Kate, Me, Mother

Here's the whole gang...minus Kris. He had to study.

My Mother had a big lunch for all of us, plus my Aunt and my cousin Amber and her two children, Cole and Kayla. Here is everyone waiting for the Easter Egg Hunt.

Everyone did so good looking for eggs. It was really fun. My kids didn't bring their Easter baskets, because Kate said - Meme has a basket for me...which she did, but Meme wouldn't let her use it because it had all their goodies in it. Therefore, my kids are hunting with the gallon ice cream buckets....sheesh.

Kayla & Cole

Papaw was giving 4 wheeler rides...to everyone....at the same time.

And we blew up the bouncy house....good times.

All Aboard!

2010-04-09T09:01:00.005-05:00

I'm a little slow in getting these pictures up. Jacob turned 3 on the 25 of March and Sissy had the cutest train party for him. Check out her cute banner!

Here is the birthday boy blowing out his candle

Here he is trying to taste all the cupcakes...Kate really wants to get in on the action.

Luke loved the cupcake

Opening his presents. He got a lot of trains.

She also had these cute hats for all the kids. She got Kate, the only girl there, a pink one.
Happy Birthday Jacob! We had so much fun at your party!

Photo Friday

2010-03-26T22:47:00.002-05:00

Tulsa Aquarium

Happy Birthday Jacob!

2010-03-25T13:10:00.003-05:00

Jacob, my nephew, is 3 today! Happy Birthday Little Guy! He is such a sweet boy. We love him so much. His birthday party is this weekend, so more pictures next week.

Aunt C visit

2010-03-23T14:59:00.003-05:00

Aunt C is in town for a few days so the kids and I drove down to Dardanelle to see her. Kate slept with her last night...I don't think Aunt C slept well...

Luke wasn't so cooperative.

Have a safe trip home!

Photo Friday

2010-03-19T17:41:00.004-05:00

These two kids are pooped out. We've been playing outside for several hours and this is the first thing they did when they came in. They didn't even look up when I took their picture.

Have a great weekend!

Smile....

2010-03-18T20:53:00.003-05:00

I had to have my picture made today for CSA's website. Here is the one they are using. Y'all my roots need to be done...and I'm thinking about some botox...who is with me?

Princess Bride(s)

2010-03-17T16:52:00.003-05:00

Kate and the neighbor playing princesses

I was not on vacation

2010-03-15T21:30:00.003-05:00

I know everyone thought I was on vacation. But I wasn't. I have been really busy. Work is picking up, which is what I've been praying for...thank you Lord! We've been busy with playgroups, meetings, dance, bible study, etc. that I haven't been interested in blogging. However, I will get it together. Until then, the real reason you check in....pics of my kids.

"let me take your picture!"

NO!!

"Ok, but I'm not looking at the camera...me neither!"

Have a good week.

Boys & Their Toys

2010-03-04T14:56:00.003-06:00

Anyone who knows my husband, knows how obsessed he is with cars and motorcycles. I was hoping this wouldn't trickle down to my children....but it did. Luke loves playing with cars and has one in his hand always. I picked up this little rug with roads, towns, buildings on it at....KMART! I moved it into the kitchen the other day so I could watch him while I was working.