Christmas Memories

I have so many wonderful Christmas memories so I thought I would list a few:

1. Making cookies and any other kind of tasty treat with my Nannie...she always encouraged me to taste as we went along:)
2. Looking at neighborhoods full of Christmas lights with my parents and grandparents too sometimes, while listening to Christmas music.
3. Appple cider brewing on the stove.
4. Waking up Christmas morning and opening the treats in my stocking while we waited for my grandparents to arrive for the Santa gift opening. ( They lived in the same town till I was in sixth grade so this was a very special treat for me.)
5. The big Bogart the Basset hound stuffed dog I got one Christmas.
6. My Mom (aka Santa's helper) shopping till she dropped looking for all of the things on my list. (Yes, I was spoiled.)
7. The Christmas my Dad drove a few hours from where we lived to wait in line before the store opened to get me just the right Cabbage Patch doll I had my eyes on. (Thanks again Dad.)
8. The singing Santa on Nannie and PaPaw's back door which sang when you pushed its red nose. ( Nannie and I loved it but I think it annoyed everyone else.)
9. The house covered in decorations and holiday magic.
10. Walking in the door and hearing Nannie whistling to the Christmas music on the radio or the old record player.
11. My Mom always wanting to make everything perfect...her divinity candy is the BEST!
12. The years of pictures with Santa as Mom and Dad looked on with smiles on their faces.
13. My Dad getting the presents down from the attic and me pretending not to hear in my bed.
14. Seeing just how early I could get away with waking my parents up on Christmas morning.
15. Christmas Eve with all my relatives, catching up on the many activities of the year.
16. The love of our family.
17. Christmas carols on the radio all day.
18. Making my list for Santa along with cookies and milk.

I am sure there are many more memories but those are definitely the tops from my childhood. Who knew (besides our parents) how much better Christmas would be when you have children to spoil? The looks on their faces Christmas morning are priceless. I am having so much fun this year with Kaylee since she is old enough to understand what is going on and wants to immerse herself in everything Christmas related. It is definitely more fun through the eyes of a child whether it is yours or someone else's. May you all have a very Merry Christmas!!

Christmas Tag

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Hot Chocolate definitely!

2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Santa wraps every present. I just love unwrapping them. I have seen that I am in the minority on this one.
3. Colored lights on tree & house or white? Definitely white lights...is there any other color??

4. Do you hang mistletoe? No, but I would if I had some!

5. When do you put your decorations up? If I am home the day after Thanksgiving...if not as soon as possible.

6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? For dinner, honey baked ham, dressing, green bean cassarole, etc...

7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child? Waking up Christmas morning and opening the things in my stocking while waiting for my grandparents to arrive so I could open the good stuff from Santa.

8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? Are you kidding? I still believe..those who do not believe do not get any gifts. Right?

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? I always got to open one present from my parents. I always picked based on size and shape.

10. What kind of cookies does Santa get set out for him? Usually the slice n bake sugar kind with canned frosting on top.

11. Snow! Love it or Dread it? Love it!

12. Can you ice skate? I have never tried so I do not know. I have always thought it sounded fun though.

13. Do you remember your favorite gift? Probably my diamond tulip ring from Santa one year. I have always been addicted to jewelry.

14. What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Watching my children experience the magic of the season, being with family, and seeing people think of others for a while who normally would not.

15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert? I would have to say pecan pie.

16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? All of them are great! I would have to say driving around and looking at Christmas lights while drinking milkshakes and listening to Christmas music, decorating cookies with Kaylee (Campbell in the future), and watching the sparkle in my girls eyes with ever holiday sparkle.

17. What tops your tree? An angel I searched for and finally found the perfect one.

18. Which do you prefer Giving or Receiving? Definitely giving, especially to my children or to other children who need so much.

19. What is your favorite Christmas Carol? Winter Wonderland or White Christmas

20. Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum? Yum!

Hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!

We finally LOVE Santa!

Yeah!! Kaylee finally sat on Santa's lap and actually enjoyed it! She was a little hesitant when we were about three people away from him but I bribed her a little and things went great. She even talked to him for a little bit and gave him her list. He gave her a wink and told her to be good till Christmas and he would see what he could do. She made sure he saw Campbell's list too! It was so nice to not have crying or screaming. If only she had been looking at the camera but I will take it after three previous years of trying. It looks perfect to me. The highlight for Kaylee was Santa giving her a Chronicles of Narnia snow globe which her picture can be placed in later. (She adores snow globes. That is all she wanted Cary to bring her back from Seattle when he went a few months ago.)

Then there is Campbell who immediately pulled the poor Santa's real beard the minute I sat her in his lap. He just smiled and gently pryed her hands off of the beard. She just grinned from ear to ear like a pro. Too bad the smiling was not there this morning when we were getting the girls Christmas pictures taken and Campbell's 6 month pictures. You will see a somber faced girl in our Christmas cards. Oh well you cannot win them all I suppose. Hope everyone has a great weekend!!

Letter to Santa

Well here is Kaylee's letter to Santa. Why do they always surprise us by adding something they had never talked about before? She may be a little surprised on Christmas morning when a few of these are missing or maybe she will have forgotten since her list changes all the time due to different commercials. Hope every one is enjoying their holiday season. We go for pictures tomorrow to put on our Christmas card. Wish me luck! We may try to squeeze in Santa too if I feel really brave. ( If you cannot see the list very well you can click on it to make it larger.)

Christmastime or Crazy time?

Well the past week has been a blur. There is so much to do with so little time. We are officially moving a week from Friday so not only do I have Christmas stuff to take care of, doctor's appointments to fit in, suitcases to pack, special keepsakes to pack, friends to see, and many other last minute things to do. Where has all the time gone? Who's idea was it to move during the holidays? We have never moved from one house to another and may never again! (My only saving grace is that the new employer is paying for movers to come and pack everything!)

It was nice on Saturday night to attend our class Christmas party after the crazy week. Little did we know all of our dear friends were going to surprise us with a sweet going away gift. (To all our class friends who read my blog the gift and love behind it meant more than words could ever say. We will look at it often and think of each of you. We love you all!) I do not think the reality of moving had hit me till that moment. I think I spent the whole time we were standing up trying not to break into what Oprah terms as "the ugly" cry. I am excited about the new opportunities for our family I just wish we could take all of our sweet friends with us. We have been fortunate enough over the past 6 1/2 years to develop some of the friendships many people spend their whole lives searching for. How many people can say they have a list of 20 people they could call at a moments notice and they would drop everything and come running? I dare say not many. I know in my heart the friendships will remain but just take a different path for a while. We will probably be back so often they will wonder if we really moved. (I am already planning on coming back for a very special baby shower and the ladies retreat.) Some of my best girlfriends have even changed their cellular plan to our plan so we can call each other anytime and all the time at no charge. I am just going to cram all the fun I can into the next two weeks.

I just realized I still have to get... pictures with Santa, a picture of the girls for our Christmas cards, and change of address cards printed. Off to get things done!!

Happy FOURTH Birthday Kaylee!!!

Two Months
One Year
Two Years Old
Three Years Old
Four Years Old

I am sitting here today wondering where the time has gone as I am sure most mothers do. My sweet baby girl, my first born is FOUR today!! It seems like just yesterday when we were in the hospital waiting to see if we were going to be blessed with a boy or girl. Much to my surprise it was a beautiful baby girl with a head full of hair. Kaylee Nicole Beard came into this world on November 27, 2001 at 6:11pm and has been a joy ever since. I cannot even remember life before her and I do not really want to. Cary and I prayed for so long for this precious little angel. She has taught us many things over the years about ourselves. We have learned to pray much more than we ever did before, to stop and enjoy each accomplishment she has, and to never take a day for granted. The way she lights up a room with her smile and the twinkle in her eyes is wonderful. The zest she has for life is amazing and the way she never misses anything. (Thanks for keeping us on our toes.) I never could have imagined my personality on a little girl, but I can now strong will and all. She has the biggest little heart for those around her and she loves everyone. (especially her sister)
We love you to the moon and back sweet girl! Daddy and I cannot wait to see what the next year will bring for you. We already know for us it will be more joy and blessings because you are our daughter. We are so proud of you each day and thankful you are ours.

Thankful, Thankful, Thankful!!!

I am going to try to list the things that I am most thankful for this holiday season...

*My precious husband who provides for our family, unconditionally loves me and our girls, loves the Lord, and strives to be better each day than the day before.
*The great role model Cary is for our girls. May they be lucky enough to find a husband as wonderful as their father one day.
*My sweet girls who are healthy and happy.
*My family who always showers us with love and prayers.
*My dear friendships which I know will stand the test of time.
*Kaylee randomly giving me a hug, saying she loves me, and that I am the best Mommy ever!
*Going into Campbell's room and finding her smiling at me in her bed.
*Having several friends to call on at any given moment and know they would be there in a flash.
*That our friends Chad and Amy are leaving for China today to get their baby girl, Mia.
*Being able to worship the Lord freely in a country that I love.
*Shopping the day after Thanksgiving sales with good friends.
*Time with family during the holidays.
*Health of my girls, husband, parents, family, and friends.
*Kaylee's sweet heart.
*The way Kaylee loves Campbell already and Campbell loves Kaylee.
*Praying with my husband and girls.
*Being able to stay home with my girls every day and watch them grow without missing a moment.
*Being retired at 31. (That one's is for you Honey:)
*Not having to pack a single box when we move.
*My cell phone.
*People Magazine
*My favorite television shows.(Days of Our Lives, Lost, CSI, Oprah, Dr.Phil,etc...)
*Starbucks and Super Target
*Ladies Bible class on Tuesdays
*A home, car, clothes, and food each day which we often take for granted.
*The ability to finally reason with my four year old most of the time.
*The tea room in downtown Plano.
*Finding money when you least expect it.
*That we are loved by so many family and friends.

Hope you all have a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving holiday!! May the Lord continue to bless each of you. Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Thanksgiving Program

Well yesterday was the annual Thanksgiving Program at Sunshine School. Kaylee enjoyed singing all of the Turkey songs she had been practicing around the house for weeks. All of the children did really well. ( Including Campbell who managed to stay quiet the whole time.) We even laughed in all the places Kaylee had told us we were suppose to laugh. She wanted to make sure we knew just how to respond. It is always so much fun to see their little faces singing and laughing when they see a parent, sibling, grandparent, or friend that they know. This is definitely one of those moments we will remember and treasure forever!

Birthday Party

Well today was the big day for Kaylee! She finally got to have her four year birthday party. I do not know what it is about turning four but she has been so excited about it. The party was at a place called Encouragym which was just what she wanted. MY daughter would rather run, jump, and slide instead of playing dress-up so a Tea Party was out of the question. She also wanted to make sure boys could be at her party. (I do not think Cary is quite ready for her to be worried about that yet.) The main thing is she had a lot of fun and somehow Campbell even managed to get a little nap in. It was nice at the end of the day to have one more party behind us and several months before I have to plan another one.

Prayers for the Day...

I do not even know where to begin this week because it is only Tuesday and so much has happened....

I am going to start with my dear friend Amy who is caring, giving, sweet spirited, a devoted wife, mother, daughter, and friend. She is one of those people who would do anything for you in a pinch. Amy found out on Sunday that her Mom had been taken to the emergency room with pneumonia. Since that time she has had several complications which moved the doctors in the direction of placing her in a drug enduced coma. She continues to fight this battle today and is in great need of many prayers. So if you happen to be reading this please say a prayer for Carol and the rest of Amy's family. I found myself struggling today when visiting with Amy at the hospital because as a woman we want to fix things and make it better. Isn't that what we spend a lot of our day doing? (especially if you have small children at home) I just wanted to take her pain away. This thought made me reflect on the Ladies Bible Study lesson we talked about today. We are studying The Patriarchs of the Bible. One of the women brought up how hard it is to keep from trying to manipulate an outcome in a given situation and how when we do try this it may have the outcome we want for a little while but it does not stick unless it is God's will. This caused me to think of all the times I have prayed specifically for something and forgotten to follow the prayer with "let thy will be done". Is that me trying to manipulate an outcome? I believe that I probably do at times. Why is it so hard to pray "thy will be done"? I know God has my best interest at heart but I fear the outcome at times. I suppose that is just part of human nature, something for else for me to work on.

My other thought for the day is of a friend who is a wife, mother, sister, daughter, friend, mentor, and the list could continue for a while but I will stop here. My sweet friend did not get the outcome we were hoping and praying for with her first Xray and will undergo an MRI this evening to review the situation further. Please pray that she does not have to go through anymore surgery if it be God's will. She has such a kind heart and spirit.

Please lift both of my friends up in prayer tonight because they need to feel God's loving arms around them giving them peace and comfort.

I pray that all of my friends and family know how important they are to me and how much I love and value our relationships. May you each always know the place you have in my heart!

Sorry for the rambling at times but it has been a long day.

Where's your chair?

I have to pass along one of Kaylee's heartstring moments... When I went to Ladies Class the other day Kaylee was playing with friends in her class as usual. Just as they do each week she went outside to play and while they were playing Mrs. Rebecca came outside and there was not a chair for her to sit on. Kaylee said,"Mrs. Rebecca, where are you going to sit because there is no chair for you?" Rebecca says,"Well Kaylee I do not know, what do you think I should do?" Kaylee, "Well you could go sit on the blue bench." Rebecca,"But then I would have to sit all by myself away from the other teachers." Kaylee,"Well I could sit with you and talk to you so you would not be alone." Rebecca,"That is really sweet Kaylee but I think I will get a chair from inside so you can play with your friends." Kaylee, "Okay then." It made me feel so good when Rebecca told me about this to know she is getting the point about caring about others even when I am not around to remind her. I know that she is bigger than I realize. I pray that the Lord will continue to guide us on the path of teaching Kaylee (and Campbell) the right way to act and live according to his word. Thank you Lord for my precious girls and their sweet hearts.

Big Orange Pumpkin Farm

Well tonight was the Big night at the Big Orange Pumpkin Farm!! Kaylee had been looking forward to this all week.
She was most excited about her and Campbell wearing their matching overalls. She was sure to point that out to several of our friends.

I do not know what she enjoyed the most. From the time we walked up to the gate to the moment we left she experienced everything. The sheep and goats were the first activity because she wanted to feed the animals. Of course, her favorites were the baby sheep and goats as she called them. She wanted to make sure they got their fair share of the food. I was very impressed that she would let them lick the food out of her hand. I have to admit even I was a little leary but she loved it!

Next she found her friend Garrison and they were off to explore. They soon found the barrel train that was being pulled by the very nice man on the mini tractor.The smiles on their faces made the night. You would have thought it was Christmas morning. I think she enjoyed riding this a minimum of three times. The only reason she got off was to eat supper.

After a quick bite to eat they were off for a few pictures and a lot of playing followed by a hayride. What better way to end the day!



I had to get Campbell with her boyfriend Trenton and the two Big sisters.





Thank you Kristen for all of the hard work!! We had a wonderful evening.

Trick or Treat

Halloween was a lot of fun this year. Kaylee got to go trick-or-treating with her sweet friend Kylie. They were so cute as Aurora and Cinderella. It was funny to watch them go up to each door and see the reaction of the people to these two little girls. I think there were a lot of teenagers out in our neighborhood so two little girls were a welcomed treat. We made it a few streets before we circled back to the Rutledge's street for some bounce house fun. I think that made Kaylee's day complete, of course all of the candy she had to look at when she got home helped too. Kaylee has already asked me when Halloween is coming back. I am glad to say we have a year!

Aurora and Cinderella


Bounce House fun!!!


Cinderella & the Bunny (my two precious girls)


My sweet baby girl did not even mind her costume. She was a toasty warm bunny and seemed to love it!!

Fall Festival

The Sunshine School Festival was a big hit with the parents and the children on Thursday. Kaylee really enjoyed her Daddy being there with her too. They got to go bowling, go fishing, play roll the pumpkin, get tatoos ( temporary of course),and bounce in the bounce house. Here are a few pictures of her sweet class and their pumpkins. They were all so precious!







Campbell also had fun at the Fall Festival with her boyfriend Trenton.

Halloween in the Past

Well Traci inspired me to look at the picture of some of the girls and boys in our class from Halloween in 2003. My how things have changed in just two years!! Several of them have either a brother or sister now. They are also better at sitting still and smiling. One thing that has not changed is that they all still adore each other.(well most of the time) It is always fun to see how they have grown and thinking about how their personalities have developed. I always wonder what they will be like in a few more years. I cannot wait to see everyone on Sunday in their costumes!!

Fun, Food, & Shopping

Well not much going on around here since my last post. Cary took Kaylee to the Wylie football game on Friday night for a little daddy/daughter time. You would have thought that Kaylee was going to Disney World with the smile she had on her face. She could not wait to get in the car. All I heard about when they got home was about the boys running with the ball and the cheerleaders. They had a great time and it made her night when they got Skittles at the concession stand. Which they waited in line for 30 minutes for. What a Daddy won't do for his daughter.

My parents and grandfather came in town on Saturday to watch the girls while we had our special yearly night out with some of our dearest friends. The date consisted of a comedy act which was quite humorous. I do not know which was better the caveman jokes or watching Mark and Cary laugh hysterically. Then we went for a delicious dinner at III Forks. They have absolutely the best food hands down...too bad it is not affordable enough to eat there more than once a year. Oh well it gives me something to look forward to and I have not been disappointed yet.

My Mom, Kaylee, and I did have time to squeeze in some shopping at the Happy Hollydays bazaar. We are women after all! It is the best to find so many unique things under one roof. It is even better when Mom buys. Thanks again Mom! We did most of our shopping at my friend Chelsea's booth. She is so talented! The Lord did not bless me with the sewing gene but at least I am surrounded by several friends who did and can help me. Mom did manage to get a little Christmas shopping out of the way and Kaylee was a real champ. After the shopping we went to a little tea room in Wylie to eat lunch. Kaylee sat there like a little lady. When did she get so big? The funniest thing was when my mom was sharing her salad with Kaylee and she was actually eating the lettuce with lots of ranch dressing. Some of the lettuce leaves looked like leaves from a tree so Kaylee says, "Do leaves fall from the trees and turn into lettuce?" My Mom and I laughed to ourselves and I tried to explain where they come from but I think I only confused Kaylee.

All in all it was another busy but great weekend. Most of all I enjoyed watching my grandfather with the girls. So many special memories. I hope to be able to play with my great grandchildren one day.

Baby Blessing

Well Sunday was a very special day for our family. Campbell turned four months old and we attended Baby Blessing at our church. It is so wonderful to have so many friends (many of who were on the stage being blessed with us because they had new babies too) and church family there to pray with us for a bright future in the Lord for Campbell. Of course, Campbell spent the whole time looking at her friend Brooke who was standing right in front of us. There is such a wonderful level of comfort knowing that others are praying for your children. We are truly blessed!

Then on Monday Campbell had her 4 month doctor's visit. She is ahead of where Kaylee was at this age except in the area of hair. She weighed 15 pounds and was 25" long. She is wearing a lot of 6-9 month clothes already so that the length will work. I cannot believe how time has passed already! I could not resist posting this picture of her big opened mouth grin. It just makes me laugh each day. Hopefully it will make you smile too!

Another Tag...

First Memory:
I would say this one is a tie between going to the zoo and seeing 101 Dalmations at the movie theatre with my parents.

First Kiss:
I think I was in fourth grade and it was with Chad Phillips. WOW, that seems like forever ago!

First Concert:
ALABAMA in Waco, TX with my parents. I still remember the cool fireworks at the end of the show. I was in either fourth or fifth grade.

First Love:
When I was in high school I would have said Paul Newsom.( we dated for 3 1/2 years) But since I now know what love really is I would DEFINITELY have to say my husband, Cary.

First thing you think in the morning:
What day is this? Can I sleep 10 more minutes?

First book you remember loving:
Little House on the Prairie and The Boxcar Children

First Pet:
Heinrich the Weimaraner

First Question you will Ask in Heaven:
I will probably be speechless.

First thing you think of when you hear the word vacation:
time away with my husband, the beach, St. Thomas, reading a good book

First Best Friend:
Claire Smith-Copeland, we still keep in touch but not as often as I would like.

Last Time you Dressed up:
Sunday morning

Last thing you ate:
leftover chicken alfredo

Last CD you bought:
Kelly Clarkson-for Kaylee

Last time you cried:
Yesterday when I thought about how big my baby girls are getting each day and how blessed I am to have them.

Last time you told someone you loved them:
About an hour ago. Cary when I left to go to Sam's and Kaylee and Campbell when I put them down for a nap.

Last really fun thing you did:
Went to lunch and shopping with my friend Traci for a little girl time.

Last thing you watched on TV:
"Twitches" on the Disney channel with Kaylee and Cary

Last Halloween costume:
I have no idea...it has been too long ago.

Last Concert attended:
Wiggles

School Days

Well today is school picture day! Kaylee was already practicing her cheesy smile before she left this morning. I let her choose her outfit to wear last night and I have to say it just screams school to me. What is better than plaid and argile? Of course we had to discuss that whole question as to why we have to take school pictures, which is just part of my curious little girl. I got a little teary this morning thinking about how big she is already and all the time that has gone by. Kaylee must have noticed because she touched my cheek and said,"It's okay Mom, I am not in high school yet." I thought to myself no you are not but you will be before we know it. For now I am just going to enjoy each day and pray time slows down a little.

Also Kaylee got her flu shot this week. She cried part of the way to the doctor's office and when the nurse walked into the room. Which triggered Campbell to start crying too. What fun! I agreed to get my shot first so Kaylee could see that it was not that bad. She smiled and told me I did a great job! However, it did not help because the minute we pulled her pants down to show her thigh for the shot she started trying to pull them back up. This reminded me of just how strong my little girl is. After I got a good grip on her hands the nurse gave the shot and the crying stopped. ( from Kaylee anyway, Campbell was still losing it!) The nurse gave her a sucker and our trip was complete with a smile on Kaylee's face. As we were getting off the elevator she looked up at me and said, "I am sorry I cried Mom , it didn't hurt...that shot just FREAKED me out!" Where does she get this stuff?

My Sweet Big Girl!

My sweet Kaylee loves life to the fullest each and every day. We have the best conversations! I am just going to highlight a few from this past week. On Sunday night she fell and cut her knee pretty badly so we were doctoring it while singing Jesus Loves Me to mask the pain. After we were done I said "I am so sorry you hurt your knee." Kaylee says, "That is okay Mom Jesus will heal it!" We have so much to learn from our children.

Then on Friday night we were sitting on the floor hugging each other and I went to give her a kiss on the lips and she wiped it off with her hand and touched her heart. I asked her why she wiped my kiss away. She said,"Mom, I have to put it on my heart because that is where all the kisses go. Then I can make more for my whole family."

Now it is Saturday and Kaylee came in our bedroom to wake me up. Of course, I was already awake but trying to catch 10-15 more minutes of sleep. Cary told her not to wake me so in her quietest whisper she said, "Mom, Mom...I love you...I love you Mom." I did not want to ruin the sweet moment so I just smiled and enjoyed. (What is it about a childs whisper that is so sweet? Is it because we do not hear it very often except when at the library?) Later when she and Cary brought me breakfast in bed. (My husband makes the best french toast!) I got in trouble with Kaylee for not saying I loved her back earlier so I made up for it then.

Thank you Cary for the great breakfast and for trying to make time for us whenever you can with the October 15th tax deadline hanging over your head at work. We love and appreciate you more than you know.

Two more quick thoughts from Kaylee. She told me this morning that she told Santa she wanted a computer for Christmas. I asked how she told Santa since he is not at the mall yet. She just pointed to the ceiling. Evidently, according to Kaylee Santa lives in heaven with Jesus and watches over all the children and makes presents at the same time. What happened to the North Pole?
Next she gave me a quote I need to thank Mrs. Tiffany for "You get what you get and you don't throw a fit." I love it! and evidently so does she because I have heard it several times today. She explained that you get whatever sticker you are given and you do not complain about it. They do listen to you Mrs. Tiffany and they love you too!!

I hope you are all having a great weekend!!

Random Photos

I ran across a few pictures I thought I would share.

Poor Campbell does not even look comfortable.

Here is Kaylee walking to Sunshine School on the first day with her friend Trinity.

My happy little girl!

All the girls at Ashlyn's party.

Where is Lava Girl?

Well Kaylee's world for the past few months has been all about Lava girl, Shark boy, and Max. Ever since my Mom took her to see the movie in 3-D at the theater after Campbell was born (twice) we have not been able to escape from them. (I would have paid a lot of money to see both my parents in 3-D glasses at the movie with her.) According to Kaylee Lava girl, Shark boy, and Max go in the car with us, to the mall, grocery store, etc... She has even told me on more than one occasion that she could not go to sleep during her nap time because they were keeping her awake by talking too much. How do you compete with that? They were wearing me out and I had not even seen the movie yet. All of this to say that a week ago my parents sent her the movie since it is out on video. I will give you just one guess what we are watching every day at some point now. I have to admit it is not a bad movie just a little tiring after watching it 5 times in a day. ( That was only the first day after it arrived, now we are down to one time a day.) Her imagination seems to run wild with this movie and I have to say it is funny at times. However, she decided she wanted to be Lava Girl for Halloween but there are no costumes to be found. (Talk about a movie execs missing out on a great market before Halloween.) Try to reason with a three year old about picking a Princess over an action hero (in her eyes anyway). We will have to wait and see what wins the debate in weeks to come. It is unfortunate for her that she does not have a mother who has a sewing talent like several of my dear friends. What I would come up with would be a good laugh but I think I will leave the creativity to someone else.

I Want to be a Cowgirl...

Kaylee loved dressing up today to go to Sunshine School for Cowboy/Cowgirl Day. She was worried that she would look silly but I assured her that everyone would be dressed up too. Since she wanted to wear boots I had to go with the only pair I could find for her which were two sizes too big! Oh well, she loved them just the same. Atleast now she will have some to wear next year. I am sure all the children looked adorable I know my sweet girl did!

Cary just called from the car and he is on his way home. I am looking forward to a little quiet time tomorrow even if it is just in the car on the way to my doctor's appointment. Thank you to everyone who prayed for Cary's safe return. We will be glad to have him home...I cannot hog all the fun!

Conversations with Kaylee

Well we have now made it a few days without Cary and I think his little angel is missing him quite a bit. (Me too!)I think we are all spoiled to Daddy time around here. I am definitely glad he does not have a traveling job. Hats off to all the ladies in our class who do have husbands with traveling jobs!

On the way to Ladies Class this morning I decided to call Cary and let Kaylee talk to him because we were listening to Kelly Clarkson (aka Kelly Partner to Kaylee, I do not know why) and the song Since You've Been Gone came on the CD and Kaylee changed the words to Since Daddy's Been Gone... which I thought was hilarious. Since he is never gone it has been hard to explain to her why he is gone and why he cannot come back today. So she and Cary had the same conversation she and I have had for the past few days about airplanes, why he cannot come back early, where he is, where he is sleeping, are his friends there, etc... All she kept saying was "I want you to come home now!" Even Cary's attempt to distract her with surprises he has for her did not work. After an "I love you" with a pouty lip and sad eyes she handed me the phone and I hung up. Then I hear from the back seat "I am tired of being a broken family" again with the pouty lip and sad eyes.( this is a phrase from Lilo & Stitch) "What are you talking about?" I say. (Thoughts running through my head of how many people she would encounter today and say this phrase to and what would they think? Would Cary and I be signed up for counseling by the elders on Sunday?) After a long pause she said "Daddy is in Seattle and we are here in Sachse so we are a broken family." Oh well, I do not think we are a broken family Daddy is just away on business but he will be back soon. "We are still broken till he gets home" says Kaylee. Okay, you win. I did inform her teacher who happens to be one of the elders daughters that Cary was out of town in case Kaylee told her we were broken. I love my thoughtful and inquisitive daughter.

Crazy days

The past week flew by and so did our weekend. I am constantly amazed at where the time goes.

On Friday we had a cute party to attend for one of Kaylee's sweet friends. She had so much fun making a puppy collar for her little beanie puppy named Max. They also made a puppy carrier. Such cute ideas!! Then we returned home so the girls could take a nap and I could finish getting ready for the garage sale our neighborhood was having on Saturday. After naps it was time to get the girls ready to attend a 30th Birthday surprise party for a friend of ours. It too was a lot of fun. Kaylee loved having cake twice in one day! Who wouldn't? Then I went to Traci's house where we were having the garage sale and unloaded things and helped set up for the next morning.

Saturday I was up and at the garage sale at 7:20am, should have been earlier but I slept a little longer than expected. We made several sales and by 9:45am it was time for Cary to work the sale so I could attend a baby shower in Mesquite for a sweet friend of mine, Shelly. She got some really sweet things and some practical ones too. The time with friends catching up was great! Then it was back home for some more garage sale...mainly packing up since it was around 1:00pm and it looked a little stormy outside. All in all the garage sale was a success and I was beat by the time we returned home at 2:00pm. The rest of the day consisted of naps for the girls, Cary mowing the yard, and me tidying up around the house.

Sunday begins another and it is a little different than usual since Cary left for a conference in Seattle for the week. We shall see how I do with the girls on my own. So far we have made it 24 hours with no major events.

Kaylee is a little confused about Cary being gone because he has never been gone for several nights since the girls have been born. He and Kaylee have the nightly ritual of bedtime so that is their special time of the day. She kept asking me where daddy was sleeping? Who was tucking him in snug as a bug? What was he going to eat? Who was he going to eat with? My little worrier. She said it was okay for him to be gone a little while but not a long,long time.

I am already enjoying the girls being sisters. Kaylee cannot wait to see Campbell and she smiles so big when she sees Kaylee. They are also enjoying bathtime together. Kaylee said " I have been waiting my whole life for this!" the other night when I put them in the bath together. Little does she know that is not too long. However, I am glad that she loves her so. Kaylee also informed me when we were talking last night that we did not need any more babies at our house because she was going to have a hard enough time teaching Campbell to stay out of her room. Good luck sweetheart! I pray they will always be good friends. My girls continue to be the light in my day!

Well I am off to run errands before Kaylee returns from school. Please pray for a safe return for Cary.

I Love Tuesdays!

I just love Tuesdays because I get to go to Ladies Bible Class at church. Kaylee gets to play with her friends for a few hours and Campbell gets to hang out with the adults.(only because I cannot bare the thought of putting her in the nursery yet) The format right now for class is lecture type with some discussion but I look forward to breaking up into groups and getting to hear other women speak on their thoughts and feelings. I always learn so much. It is a great way to get to know other women in the church too. There are so many older women that I look up to and look forward to seeing each week. Then of course their is the added treat of having lunch with friends.

There are not many things better than having lunch with good friends. Especially if you are eating at MiCocina at the Galleria. Shopping and lunch is even better! It is so nice to talk about life whether it is a little Dr. Phil, Oprah, Days of Our Lives, or our actually lives. Our three precious angels even managed to sleep the whole time so we could have a few adult moments.(the ones where you get to talk without interruptions and eat with both hands before your food gets cold) I am so thankful for these times with friends and as time goes by I am sure I will treasure them more and more. Thanks Nicole and Honey!

When I went to pick Kaylee up she came running down the hall to see her sister. She adores her. As I was finishing giving Campbell a bottle my BIG helper was directing all the parents to the room down the hall. She would say "Mrs. Pedigo, Beau is down in the movie room...right down there" and point her in the right direction with her finger while saying "yeah right that way, right that way." As if they were so lost without her pointing them onward. Such a helpful soul. Then on the way home she said, "Mommy are you sure you can take care of Campbell?" I responded with, "Yes, of course. Why?" She said, " It is a BIG RESPONSIBILITY to take care of a baby and I just wanted to make sure you could handle it." Where does she get this stuff from? I laughed the rest of the way home.

Well I am off to clean out my house of unwanted clutter to put in a garage sale. Hopefully I will have a cleaner house and a little extra money when I am finished.

A Quiet Sunday...

What is a quiet Sunday? I find myself wondering very often these days. I love my precious girls but there is rarely a quiet Sunday with the two of them and in the end I would not have it any other way.

Have you ever spent about an hour or so cooking something new for lunch thinking it will be so nice to sit down to a family dinner at the table for a change? ( since Cary usually is at work late we eat in shifts during the week) I had that thought today. Campbell was asleep and I thought how nice it would be to cook something new and all eat together. About the time the lunch was finished and I was placing the last plate on the table we hear a screaming "I am awake" cry from Campbell's room. Cary went to get her while I finished placing things on the table and getting Kaylee to sit down. Campbell is now having a bottle in Cary's lap and we are all seated and bowing our heads to pray when Kaylee announces "I have to go potty" which I follow with "can you wait a minute?" of course her answer is "no". Off she goes to the potty and Cary and I just laugh at what our lives have come to in only a few short months time. So much for a nice lunch with a conversation and no interruptions.

Fast forward to Sunday night after church. Campbell was a little fussy during church but I just thought a clean diaper would fix it. Not the case. As soon as we left the church parking lot Campbell started to scream and I do mean scream. Kaylee tried to entertain her by acting crazy and laughing which worked for all of 3 minutes. The screaming started again which Kaylee followed with singing and laughing even more loundly.( Did I mention that I had a headache before we ever left the house?) At one point Cary and I just looked at each other and laughed. At least we still have our sense of humor...you have to right? Also it should be noted that we live about a 25-30 minute drive from church which felt like an eternity tonight. Then I had the idea that maybe she was hungry even though it had only been two hours since her last feeding so we decided to stop at Whataburger to eat and quiet her with a bottle. This did not work either so we got the food to go and listened to five more minutes of screaming on the way home. Once home after a nice dose of Mylicon all seemed to be good in Campbell's world. After a nice dose of Tylenol all is good in my world too. I cannot wait till tomorrow to see what the day brings.

Hopefully someone had a calmer Sunday. In the end I would not change a thing, we are truly blessed.

Getting My Shopping Fix plus an Added Bonus

perfect bargain. I think I am addicted to finding the best deal. Needless to say I found several deals and Campbell now has a few things for the winter months and Kaylee has one new dress. ( there were not a lot of cute things in Kaylee's size by the time I got there, hence the one dress) There is something about a bunch of civilized women searching for a perfect outfit that is so much fun!! I appreciate my husband supporting this addiction and keeping the girls last night. They were actually both asleep by the time I got home.

After waiting for an hour to check out I received an added bonus. Several of us from church decided to go eat and catch up on life in general. Who can resist Olive Garden? We had a lot of fun talking and laughing. Those are the moments that I treasure the most especially when a few of the girls are ones you do not get to do that with very often. Our waiter was very nice considering we walked in right before closing time. Thanks Chris! All in all I would say my trip was very successful!

I am now off to feed Campbell, change movies for Kaylee, and start my day of cleaning. Also today is my Dad's birthday so hope you have a wonderful day Dad!! I talked about Daddy's girls in my previous post and I am the Queen of that. I love you Dad!!

Labeling On...

I have not blogged in a while because I have been burried in the study of our home labeling clothes and hanging clothes since Saturday. Finally today was the drop off day for the Just Between Friends consignment sale here in Dallas. It has been a long process but hopefully it will pay off with a BIG check in the end. Then I can go buy more clothes for the girls to fill up the already full closets. Isn't it a vicious cycle??

Today was Parents and Pasteries at Kaylee's school. She told me earlier in the week she wanted Daddy to come like last year. ( have I mentioned she is our "little elephant" who forgets nothing) She also wanted to get some books at the Book Fair which she had pre-selected on Monday with her teacher. She picked out the usual stuff for three year olds...Dora, Clifford, Franklin, and two books that had stickers in them. I did manage to talk her out of the Spiderman book that was on her list. She told me her "heart was happy" because her whole family went for breakfast at school. I almost cried.

Kaylee continues to love Sunshine School!! She told her teacher today that Daddy says "to always do your best". What about all of the things Mommy says? I already know who the Daddy's girl is around here. I am so glad they have such a great relationship. Kaylee continues to LOVE her baby sister and cannot wait to see her every morning and when she gets home from school. She likes to make her smile all the time too. She is growing up so fast. I thought the first year was suppose to be the fastest but we seem to loose track of time even more now. She is my sweet girl.

Campbell is getting bigger every day. She has been such a good sleeper lately...
I hate to say that because I am probably jinxing myself. It is amazing all you can get done with a sleepy baby. She continues to smile a lot and be a true joy.

Well I am off to get a few things done around here before I go shop the sale tonight. Wish me luck on some great bargains! Today is payday, right?

Holiday Weekend

Why is it that a weekend away always leaves you more tired than you were before you got started? Is it the packing of 2 adults and 2 children? Is it thinking about putting it all away when you get home?

Besides returning tired we had a great weekend in Abilene with dear friends catching up on life. It is so nice to have friendships where you do not get to talk as often as you would like but can pick up as if no time has passed at all. David Todd and Lisa's children had grown so much it is hard to believe we have friends with a six year old. Then our other dear friends are about to start the life journey of having a child. They have no idea what is in store. No more 9 o'clock bedtime for them. They will make great parents though. God bless all our sweet friends near and far.

My how things have changed in Abilene since we were there three years ago! There are more restaurants, shopping, and the big news was they added another Super Wal-Mart in town. We managed to eat Chinese food, a great steak, and some delicious Mexican food. I also got to enjoy a Cajun Cone before leaving town which is one of the places I miss especially in the hot summertime. It is amazing how much you can get done when it only takes ten minutes to get across town. The slower pace sure was enjoyable for the weekend. The only sad part was we did not get to see the Mayos but we will catch them next time.

All in all we had a lot of fun and Kaylee enjoyed her time with PaPa and Nana in Waco. She told me all about the beautiful wedding she got to attend and going shopping with Nana who buys her anything she wants. That is what Nanas are for though. I still have some unpacking to do so that is all for now. Enjoy your day.

Tag I am it?

7 Things to do before I die:
1. See my children graduate from high school and college
2. Watch my children marry Godly spouses and be happy
3. Spoil my grandchildren rotten
4. See my children be baptized
5. Go back to St.Thomas
6. Lose weight
7. Own a lake house

7 Things I can do:
1. Love, Laugh
2. Pray
3. Teach
4. Listen
5. Cook
6. Clean
7. Shop

7 Things I can't do:
1. Snow ski
2. Pass up a bargain/sale
3. Make a mess (I am a neat freak.)
4. Stick to an exercise plan
5. Get caught up on my scrapbooking (at least not in the near future)
6. Drink a diet Coke
7. Stop blogging

7 Things that attract me to the opposite sex:
1. Godly man
2. Funny/Easygoing
3. Great father
4. Loyal/Trustworthy/Honest
5. Puts family first after God
6. Hardworking
7. Gorgeous blue eyes

7 Things I say most often:
1. "I love you" also "I love you to the moon and back" (said to my baby girls)
2. "Just a minute"
3. "Hey, what's up?" (when answering the phone)
4. "Are you kidding me?"
5. "When are you going to be home?" (daily when talking to my husband)
6. " I'll talk to you tomorrow" (when hanging up the phone from talking to a friend)
7. "Really!"

7 Celebrity crushes:
1. Dylan McDermott
2. Harry Connick Jr.
3. Ben Affleck
4. Josh Lucas (Sweet Home Alabama)
5. Justin Hartley (plays Fox on Passions which I sometimes see because it comes on after Days of Our Lives-not an avid watcher)
6. Matthew Fox
7. George Prescott Bush

7 people I want to do this:
1. Stephanie
2. Leslie
3. Kathy
4. Heather
5-7. I have no idea

First Pictures Together

Well here are the pictures from last week. They turned out really well I thought. My friend Stacy does a great job! I tried to pick some of my favorites. Not much going on today except packing to leave town tomorrow after Kaylee gets out of school. We are heading to Waco then to Abilene for the long weekend to catch up with some friends. Kaylee is going to enjoy some time with PaPa, Nana,and Great PaPaw. I hope everyone has a safe and happy Labor Day weekend!

Off and Running

Well Kaylee was up at 6:50am today with two books in hand saying "Today is school, Today is school!". I am so glad that she loves it so much I hope it is always that way for her. She could not wait to get dressed and out the door. After a mad dash to get everyone ready and a few photos in the front yard we were off.

As promised to Kaylee we went for a family breakfast at McDonald's before school. She was so excited to get pancakes and to have her Daddy there that I do not think she stopped smiling the whole meal. Campbell stayed asleep so we had a chance to talk to Kaylee about all the fun she was going to have in Mrs. Leslie's class this year. Once Kaylee finished her food she was ready to finish the journey to school. She decided to ride with Daddy this part of the drive. I am so glad she loves her Daddy so much. I know first hand what it is like to be a Daddy's girl.

Once we got to the parking lot she was running to the car to get her backpack and nap mat. Her friend Trinity had just arrived too so they were excited to see each other. After a few hugs and more pictures they were off hand in hand toward school. When did she get so big? We had to stop and check on her teacher from last year before proceeding down the hall. Kaylee loves to make sure everyone is okay...more on that later. I do not think she stopped after that because we were at Mrs. Leslie's class in record time. I do not even remember getting a "goodbye" or anything else. She took her seat beside her sweet friend Ashlyn and got busy on her color sheet. We did manage to get one more picture in though. I love my big girl but it makes me sad too when I think about how the years have gone by already.

Next it was Mommy time with my dear friend Stephanie. We did what women usually do which is shop and talk. We went to Tuesday Morning and Target for a few bargains. You cannot beat a pair of pants for $6.84 on sale. Yeah!! Then it was off to lunch at LaHacinda Ranch and catching up on our lives without interruption. ( except for feeding our precious babies a bottle) What wonderful day !!

When I arrived at school to pick Kaylee up she was all smiles. She came running to give me a big hug which was the best. However she followed that with the words "I want to stay here". I explained that everyone else was going home too so then she agreed to go with me. Mrs. Leslie pulled me aside and said Kaylee says such cute things. This worries me for a moment because one never knows what is going to come out of the mouth of a three year old. She said Kaylee asked her a few times during the day " Mrs. Leslie are you okay?". She thought it was cute and I was relieved. Once in the car she told me all about her day ( how if you stay on green you get a treasure on Thursday, everyone in her class is so good, and Mrs. Tiffany was sick today) and gave Campbell plenty of love on the way home. I assured her that Campbell missed her today but she would be okay two days a week for a few hours without her. ( As mentioned before my child is very nurturing..she wants everyone to be good at all times. I get asked at least 10 times a day if I am okay? Such a little mother already!) We stopped at Sonic for a treat on the way home and then she said she was ready for a nap. I had to ask her to repeat that a few times to let it sink in...asking for a nap. Daddy called to see how her day had gone and she told him her favorite part of the day was recess because she got to see all of her friends. My little social butterfly.

I am sure the new year will be great! God bless all the teachers and administrators willing to give their time and talents to our children.

Where did the weekend go?

Another week has ended with nothing too eventful to report or at least not that I remember. (I do have a 10 week old who still wakes up once in the night so somethings are blurry at times.)

On Friday my wonderful husband came home early from work so I could go scrapping with some friends at this great place called Recollections. We were there from 4:oopm till 12:00am. Needless to say I did not accomplish everything I had hoped but I am trying to stay up to date with at least one of my children's albums since I am two years behind on Kaylee's. In my defense I do have two albums full of Kaylee's first year so that took some time. I have found that this is a hobby I enjoy most of the time but also one I cannot stop since I have already started it! When I returned home the house was just as I had left it and both girls were asleep so my husband's night was a success. However, he did say on more than one occasion he does not know how I do all the things I do each day. That is always nice to hear...who doesn't want to feel appreciated. I could not do what he does all day either. Thank you God for a wonderful man who I am lucky enough to call my "husband".

My parents came in town this weekend too. Mom, Kaylee, and I had fun shopping on Saturday for Kaylee some back to school clothes which she will be wearing when the temperature stops being in the 90's to 100's. She loved shopping because we went to a mall where there were rides to ride so after each store if she had been cooperative she got to ride a ride. Isn't bribery wonderful!! That made the day so much better for all of us. It never ceases to amaze me when shopping for the girls just how much things cost for them. Should it cost as much or more than my clothes when so much less material is used? Oh well! Thanks Mom and Dad for always spoiling us.

Then on Saturdey night Cary and I went to a party at a friends house who recently got married. They had such beautiful wedding and honeymoon pictures. When do we get to go on such a wonderful vacation again? Is it before our girls are our ages now? It is so good to see him so happy and blessed by God. We know they will have a wonderful life together. The time away from both girls was an added treat since Mom and Dad pulled babysitting duty. For the second night in a row I came home to happy sleeping children. Thank you.

Today is Sunday and we had a great morning at church eventhough there was no children's church today for Kaylee. My little girl is growing up because she colored and played with stickers with two of her friends on the row behind us and there was no noise or fighting from any of them. They are all getting so big and it is nice to be able to not be the mediator for a change. It is fun to watch their different personalities at this age. They are so social. Kaylee was very pleased with her sweet time with her friends. Bless all God's dear children.

I have now packed Kaylee's lunch and backpack for another year of Sunshine School. It makes me sad to think I only have two more years of her being home with me before "big school starts" as Kaylee says. I do enjoy my two days a week of free time, but what will I ever do with five! I will still have Campbell at home but some things are so much easier with one child in tow. My husband would answer the "what will I do question?" with go back to work but I think he is slowly understanding how serious I am when I say I am retired from working outside of the home. Teaching for four years is enough, right?
We had meet the teacher this afternoon and Kaylee was very pleased with her teacher and class. All of her girlfriends from Sunday morning are in her class so she loved it tonight!

I will post more tomorrow on Kaylee's first day!

Time Flies

Well I did not have a moment to post at all last week so I suppose I will try to catch everyone up on our life.

Campbell went to the doctor last Tuesday for her 2 month appointment!! I cannot believe how time has flown by since her birth on June 16th. She is growing into a healthy girl at 11 pounds 6 ounces and 23 inches long. Her lungs are working fine too since the minute we walked into the doctor's office she started crying. She was comforted long enough to turn on the charm for the doctor who thought I was crazy telling him she was a little on the fussy side after the way she grinned and cooed at him through the whole exam. The shots were a different story of course. Kaylee did not like the nurse hurting "her baby". She had to know what was going on at all times and if all of that was "necessary". I am so glad she adores her sister, I am going to enjoy the ride until Campbell starts getting into her stuff and the tune changes. Kaylee did insist that her ears be checked too since she had an ear infection the week before and surprisingly everything was fine.

Nothing else exciting happened till Tuesday when I finally went to get Kaylee's 3 year pictures made since she will be 4 in November! In my defense I have decided to get her year pictures done closer to summer since we always do a family picture in late November around her birthday. She was a big cheese for the pictures! We had to keep telling her to smile less so we could see her eyes. Somehow we even managed to get the girls pictures together, which was a task in itself. All in all it was a pleasant experience. It helped having a friend who is a photographer and has patience. After that we met Daddy for lunch and had a great dining experience. Campbell actually slept through me eating. ( This does not happen very often.)

We had a great week and look forward to this one.

Addicted

Well I am officially sucked in to blogging. (thanks Kristen) I suppose it is a good way to spend the vast amount of extra time I have with my 31/2 year old and a 2 month old. ( ha, ha) Seriously I can see how it would help you keep up with family and friends though. I will try to keep up with the rest of you but I am not quite as clever most of the time. Happy blogging!