Through the Year with Campbell

I couldn't get blogger to load pictures earlier so here is Campbell during the past year. I will post pictures from her birthday later.

3 Months Old

6 Months Old

9 Months Old

Busy, Busy, Busy

From last Thursday till now I feel like we have been going non-stop. On Thursday Kaylee had her first gymnastics class here and it went GREAT!! Kaylee was so excited because two of her friends from school were in her class. I think she was especially excited about Reid. She has a little crush on him. Campbell even enjoyed playing in the large waiting area and watching Kaylee. Considering the lessons last an hour I was very proud of her. I tried to take a few picture but they turned out too dark so I will try again this week. After gymnastics we had time to run home and Kaylee changed into her swimsuit while I gave Campbell her milk bottle. (I decided to start her on milk this past week and see how it went and she did super.) Once we rounded up the towel and cover up we were off to ACU for swiming lessons. I am so proud of the progress Kaylee has mde in just a few days. She will even hold her breath and put her head under the water for more than a few seconds.


On Friday Kaylee skipped swim lessons to her friend Matthew's birthday party. They went to see CARS !! Kaylee was so excited. The movie was really cute. Thankfully Cary watched Campbell at his office so Kaylee and I could enjoy the movie with no interruptions. I am just not ready to see if Campbell likes the movies by myself. Kaylee got a little collectible Lightening McQueen car and a CARS matching game too. After the movie we went to McDonald's for a happy meal and a treat for Cary. When I got to the office all the "ladies" as Kaylee calls them said Campbell had been great so it was a successful afternoon for all!!

Saturday I caught up on some chores around the house, bought stuff to attempt to make Campbell's birthday cake, and did a little Father's Day shopping. I was exhausted by the time I got home and was trying to decide what to cook for dinner when the phone rang. It was the Baileys asking us to go to Abuelos and my alvacado enchiladas were wonderful. It was a perfect way to end the night.

Today we were off to church. Shana and I had a lot more kids in class than we did last week and it was a little more eventful. Campbell and Kaylee both had a good time in class and Cary even cooked lunch. Meals are always great when you do not have to cook them. Tonight we had Sheperding Group at the Walter's which consisted of visiting, swimming, and eating. The girls are now in bed gettitng ready for another exciting week. Kaylee gets to see her friend Lexi from Dallas this week because they are going to VBS at the church where Lexi's grandfather preaches. Then we are off to our last week of swim lessons and Campbell's birthday on Friday. I am off to rest up for the week.

8 YEARS!!!!

It is so hard to believe that Cary and I have been married for EIGHT YEARS today. Being back in Abilene it is so funny to see where we went on our first date, where Cary proposed (unfortunately the tree is now gone so they can expand the zoo), and where we first lived as husband and wife. Time has just flown by especially since having our two precious girls. I have to say we are more in love today than we were back then. I knew from the first time I met Cary that he was the one. We shared the same love for the Lord, desire to have a family, and belief in putting each other first. There were so many qualities that I wanted my husband to have and Cary far exceeded them all. I think I realized just how amazing that he is once we had our girls. He is a wonderful father!! After working all day he still has the energy to swing Campbell around and play games with Kaylee. He always encourages me to have some "girltime" and never complains. We can complete each others thoughts and sentences to the point that it is scary at times. He always puts us first. He is truly wonderful!! I am so glad that I found THE ONE, my soulmate, and my best friend. We are the perfect compliment to each other. I cannot wait to see what the rest of our life has in store for us. I love you now and forever!!

We have a date planned tonight thanks to James, Leslie, and Kaitlyn babysitting for us. I am looking forward to an evening alone with my sweet husband.

Relaxing

Well we had a wonderful, relaxing weekend. Our goal was to do as little as possible and I believe that we achieved it. On Saturday night we went to swim at one of our friends Aunt's house. I have never seen such a large pool in someone's backyard. There were a few other couples from our class over there too. The pool felt wonderful and the food was great. Kaylee had a wonderful time swimming all over the pool with her floaties on. Most of the time she was following her new friend Kade who was 11 years old. My girl likes those older men. He was so sweet to put up with her. Campbell had her first trip in the pool too. I was a little leary after how much Kaylee use to hate it at her age but Campbell LOVED the water. She even road in her little float without a single tear. Her favorite thing was to float next to someone, lean sideways, and splash them with water. It would just crack her up. The evening was great because we all had a good time with some new friends and Cary was happy because he did not have to get in the water at all. He would rather sit and talk baseball with Paul which is fine. After such an exciting evening for the girls they were happy to go to bed and get some much needed rest before church.

Sunday morning I began my first of many Sundays to teach the two year olds at our church. They were all so precious. A few cried for their parents but after the lesson started they were fine. Shana and I had a lot of fun teaching together. I was a little worried about Campbell who was two doors down being in a new class with a new teacher but she did great! I did not hear her cry once and anyone that knows us knows Campbell has a cry that can be heard around the building if she is really mad. Kaylee had a great class too. She was just happy she got to take home a new balloon to play with. After a quick lunch at Red Lobster we were off to the house for naps and relaxing. Who knew my four year old would like lobster and crab legs???

Today Kaylee started swim class at ACU. She did so good. I was so proud considering how much she disliked the water two years ago...we have come a long way. They practiced floating on their backs and kicking their feet while holding on to their teachers shoulders. Kaylee actually was not ready to leave. It was like a sauna at the pool because it is inside so I think Campbell and I lost a few pounds too from all the sweating. I will have to post pictures tomorrow because I forgot the camera today. After the swim lesson we went to lunch with Cary at McDonald's. He got to see the last few minutes of Kaylee's lesson too. She told him he would have to come earlier tomorrow. I think she is getting use to having Daddy around a lot more than he was in Dallas which is a great thing!!

Well I am off to do a few things around the house before I go to BUNKO tonight. Some girl time is going to be great!!

A Super Memorial Day Weekend!!

We have packed a lot of fun into the past few days. It was wonderful to be with old friends and some new friends too. Life really has been good.

Friday night we were invited to the home of some new friends for dinner. It was nice to get together outside of church and get to know each other better. Kaylee had a great time with two other little girls who were 2 years and 18 months. Campbell just followed them around and ate everything that was placed on her tray. The dinner was delicious. The women even managed to talk about planning a trip to San Marcos and Canton in the future. We can always find a reason to go shopping.

Saturday we made a final trip to Sam's for some food for the rest of the weekend. After filling up on samples we headed home to wait for the Frenches to arrive. They got here around 1:30pm and the fun began!! Kaylee, Kamdyn, and Garrison were so excited to see each other. There was a lot of screaming and hugging from the children as well as the adults. The adults talked while the children played outside and Campbell napped. That evening we cooked out hamburgers and hot dogs along with some sides. All of us went to bed with a full stomach and a happy face.


Sunday morning we all went to church and class. The morning was pretty uneventful which was a good thing. After class we all went to Rosa's for lunch with some other couples. Again all of our children were so sweet. Once we arrived home we rested for a little while then it was time for the Slip N Slide. Kaylee, Kamdyn, and Garrison had a great time! You could hear lots of laughter and chatter in the backyard which is just how it should be. When it got close to bedtime the big kids watched Mary Poppins while Campbell slept and the adults played spades. There is something so fun about playing cards with old friends and laughing with each other.


Monday we slept in a little till our alarm clocks went off by the names of Kamdyn and Garrison. I jumped up and fixed a breakfast casserole and muffins to start the day right. The children enjoyed a few shows while Stephanie purchased an early anniversary gift for Cary and I which is a video conferencing camera for the computer. Now we can see each other when we talk and the kids can have fun talking to each other too. What a great idea!! Thanks again Sean and Steph. The time for them to leave came way too quickly. With a few sad goodbyes they were off and we returned into the house to get a little rest. Thanks again for coming to see us Frenches...these are the times memories are made of. I know we will have a lot more in the years to come.

A Few Prayer Requests

Just a few things are on my heart today so I thought I would ask the blog world for prayers.

1. Some friends formerly from PC are going through a lot right now. They are in their late twenties and are having to deal with cancer in the husband as well as a new baby. They just have a lot on their plate. You can check out their blog at Mccords. Just pray hard for them please.

2. One of my best friends Traci and her husband Alan who have some decisions ahead of them as to what is best for Riley this summer. Help them to have peace with whatever the decision may be.

2. Another one of my best friends Amy found out that she is having twins. She also has diabetes and has had toximia in a past pregnancy. They will soon be a family of four. Also please remember her husband Mike and their two precious children Ashlyn and Parker during the next several months. A healthy and uneventful pregnancy would be a welcome treat for them.

3. The last one is for one of my new friends M who found out that she is having triplets. This would be a lot to take in I am sure. She and her husband have a sweet son who is four so keep all of them in your prayers. We would love a healthy and uneventful pregnancy here too.

Thank you in advance for all the prayers I know all the wonderful people above will appreciate it. May you all have a blessed weekend.

Whew!!

Well another weekend has come and gone. The delay in posting is due to the fact I have been fighting my sinuses and that is also the reason for no new pictures. Unfortunately I started feeling bad on Thursday night so for the rest of the weekend I was no where near 100%.

We had a great time in Waco with my parents and grandfather despite the fact. Friday we went to lunch then up to my Mom's work to see all of her sweet friends. Kaylee always enjoys that but who would not enjoy being told how pretty you are over and over and getting some treats. The big treat is for Kaylee to get something out of the vending machine which requires a lot of thought on her part. Nana always has to wait patiently for her decision. Campbell was not too sure of all the people but was fine as long as Mom or Dad had her. Later that afternoon Nana and I took Kaylee to see Over the Hedge which had just come out. I do not know who was more excited me or Kaylee. I do not remember being in a movie theatre since before Campbell was born which was a year ago almost. The movie was okay...it will not be a classic. However the popcorn and drink were super. Campbell enjoyed some time alone with Daddy and later a little spoiling from Papa and PaPaw. She absolutely adores those two men. It is so sweet to watch her with my grandfather. Memories to treasure that is for sure.

Saturday evening Cary and I even got to go to a movie that was free thanks to my sweet parents. We chose to see Mission Impossible III and it was great!! Even with all the couch jumping in the past few months Tom Cruise still had the energy to pull off all the stunts and action. It was one of the cleanest movies I have seen in the past few years that was not a cartoon. I recommend going to see it if you like action. Later that evening Aunt Trudy came by to stay the night and visit. The girls loved having her attention...especially Kaylee. (Kaylee was a little disappointed that Uncle Don and Duncan did not come though.)

Sunday we went to church and I got to visit with Lauren and Elizabeth. James is even more precious in person. It was so nice to visit and catch up on things for a few minutes. After church we headed back to the "home front" a little tired but happy about the weekend. Kaylee had three new movies to watch and Campbell had a new baby doll to love. I even got a new purse and some jewelry. What lucky girls are we!! You may not hear from me again this week because I will be getting ready for our friends the Frenches to come visit over the weekend.

Mother's Day

Hopefully all of my friends reading this had a wonderful Mother's Day. I feel like I have had a week of Mother's Day surprises. The funniest one was a thing Kaylee did at school where they had to fill in the blanks about their Mom. Mine went like this...

My mommy's name is Erica.
Her favorite color is purple.
She really likes to wash dishes.
She really doesn't like to clean the garage.
Mommy's favorite food to cook is baked spaghetti.
Her favorite food to eat is chicken.
Mommy loves to watch Rachael Ray during my naptime.
I love my Mommy because she cooks the best food.

You just never know what is going through a four year olds mind. She did get most of it right though. The present with this lovely letter was a flower shaped magnet she made with her picture in it. So cute!! She had to give this gift to me on Thursday because she could not wait till Sunday.

On Sunday morning I was greeted with a Happy Mother's Day kiss from Kaylee and a sweet hug from Campbell. This was followed with a card Kaylee signed for both she and Campbell and some lovely artwork. Next came a gift from my sweet husband which was a Spa gift certificate!! I was very surprised and pleased:) The girls gave me a beautiful frame with a saying about mothers on it. What a perfect way to start the day! Next we went to church where all the Moms were given carnations. Kaylee brought mine to the nursery for me since I was in there with Campbell. I do not know who was more excited Kaylee or me. Then came another added treat our good friends the Jacobs were at church. We were all so excited to see them. Kaylee has missed Kendyll so much! It was so good to watch the girls play together like old times. After Kaylee got out of class she had decorated a "koozie" for me to put a drink in and a red rose for me. Her teachers really made sure we were taken care of today. Then we went to lunch at Cypress Street. I really felt extra special today and like the luckiest wife and mother in the world!! Of course I am sure that I was not alone in feeling that way. This was my first Mother's Day as a Mom of two and it was perfect. Thank you to my sweet husband and daughters for always making me feel extra special and blessed...I love the three of you more than words!!

This One's for You, MOM!!

I am posting this today because I know my Mom will not check the computer over the weekend. (She is not addicted like me.)
My Mom means the world to me! Through the years our relationship has evolved from Mother to Best Friend. She has always been there for me. When I was small she was my advocate and nurturer. Her job was to keep me safe, healthy, nourished, and loved. The unconditional love is something I only fully grasped after having my own children. As I grew her role changed a little and she had to add nurse, teacher, and counselor to her job description. Whether I was fighting with my best friend or made a grade I was not happy with Mom was always there to support me. She taught me to hold my head up and always be proud of myself. I always knew I was special to her and that was all that mattered. There was never a time that my Mom was not there to support me from school plays, to dance recitals, to color guard she was there. Even after working all day she still came home and gave me 110%. My Mom even prepared me to be a wife. I learned that if you put the Lord first the rest falls into place. There is "nothing" that a little talk with the Lord and Mom won't help. I thought I learned how much my Mom sacrificed for me when I was in college but I was wrong. Now that I am a Mom I realize that you sacrifice for your children daily for the rest of your life and are more than happy to do it. My Mom prepared me for one of the Best roles in life "Mother". We talk almost daily and I look forward to it. There is an ability she has to just call and make everything all right. I call my Mom to get advice with my daughters and sometimes my attitude. I learned how to be a loyal friend and daughter from her. The way she has always taken care of her parents is something I love and admire about her. She has always loved Cary as a son. Our daughters adore her. There is nothing that she would not do for her grandchildren and we all love her for that. Even if it requires driving two hours to see her granddaughter perform for 10 minutes. She has such a giving heart to us as well as others. I look forward to the role of grandmother because you make it look so good. You are my best friend. Thank you Mom for the blessing you are to our life daily. We love you and look forward to seeing you next weekend. Happy Mother's Day!!

Bedtime Moments

Last nigh was a rare occassion, Kaylee actually wanted me to put her in bed. Usually that is reserved for Daddy. The times she does pick me to tuck her in we have the best conversations. Her mind really goes into overdrive before bedtime. Last night she told me about the story they learned at church. Kaylee said, "We talked about Mary, Joseph, and Jesus. They went on a trip to the temple so Jesus could teach the people. Did you know that he was only 12? That's not very big huh, Mom?" I am constantly amazed by the things she remembers...even the smallest detail. From their we moved on to what she wanted to be when she grew up. She was sure to tell me there were nine jobs that she wanted to do.

1. A Vet (like Dr. Brantley...she always adds this part)
2. A Doctor (like Dr. Blair...her doctor from Dallas who is THE BEST)
3. A Mommy (The Best Job EVER)
4. Work at Bahama Bucks (where the snowcones are)
5. At the ice cream place.
6. A gift place
7. At Daddy's work
8. The Gymnastics place
9. Tha grocery store

We will see how these look to her when she is older. The best part was after we were finished. "Mom, I forgot a job." "What is that Kaylee?", I asked. "The BEST job is to just be yourself!", said Kaylee. I am constantly learning something from my precious four year old. God truly sent me a precious gift who is wise beyond her years at times. She is constantly reminding me of thing I often forget. Thank you Lord!

End of School Program

On Monday morning I attended the last MOPS meeting till the Fall. Campbell actually stayed in the nursery the whole time. The lady she had attached herself to the first time we went was there so Campbell was happy. Isn't it funny how even at 11 months they have a preference? Kaylee enjoyed her class too. They made Birthday hats and played games. The meeting this time was about giving all of our worries to God because he can handle all things. I kept asking myself why I feel the need to carry so much on my shoulders when God would do a much better job and wants to help us. My new goal is to try to give more things over to God in prayer and relieving myself of the burden. This prayer has shown up twice randomly in the past two days...I am taking it as a sign.

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference.

What a great topic! I think all of us moms struggle with that a little.

Monday night was Kaylee's end of the year program at school. ( By the way the things in the picture on her hands and arm are washable tatoos that she would not let me wash off.) The most exciting thing to her was that all f her friends in Dallas were having their program Monday night too. On the way to her program she said,"This is the best night...I am so decided (excited) because Kylie, Trinity, Ashlyn, Kendyll, and all my other friends are having their program tonight too. Isn't that great Mom!" She has really been blessed with some amazing teachers this year. They has all shown such love and attention to her and I know she will never forget them. (As if Kaylee ever forgets anything.) The program was very cute. The teachers even had these cute jungle print shirts made for the class to wear. Kaylee's class sang three songs: "My God is so Big", "Who's the King of the Jungle", and "Fruits of the Spirit". She sang very well and did not miss a word. However, all the arm motions that were suppose to accompany the songs were left out. I asked her about it later and she said,"I was a little busy remembering all the words and trying to concentrate so I could get a piece of candy from Teacher Denise later". That's my girl!! As for Campbell anytime there was clapping she was excited. She would move her feet quickly, bounce up and down, and squeal with joy. I do not thing she is going to be my shy one after she warms up to you. What a mess!

Tonight Kaylee went to the ACU baseball game with Cary. She loves to play at the ballgames and some alone time with Daddy is the best! I am so glad that I have a husband who makes it a priority to spend time with the girls even after a long day at work. Kaylee will treasure these times...I know I always have!

Good Times!!

What a great weekend we had with the Ownbys:) All the adults even managed to have some alone time without kids too.

On Friday we all just enjoyed each others company and caught up on things going on in each of our lives. The steaks Cary cooked were great and the girls were so excited to see each other. (That includes the big girls too.) Trenton even taught Campbell how to be alone in a room without crying quite so much. It was just fun to see each other in person.


Saturday our husbands got up early to go play some golf. Steph and I fed all the children and after a little while managed to go to the zoo. It was very overcast outside but we braved it anyway. Little did I know it was Military appreciation day at the zoo. They has free food and drinks for the military families which I though was great. However we did end up having to buy the girls popcorn and drinks because of all the temptations around. When we entered the zoo I bought some animal food for the girls to have and it was a big hit with them. I think they tried to feed almost every animal at the zoo.
The favorite was the giraffe I believe because it would put its head on the bridge and eat the crackers. Trinity and Kaylee then got to discuss whether the giraffe's tongue was purple or black. After a few minutes even the giraffe got tired of the discussion and wandered off. There was a long line of kids waiting to feed the giraffe so I know they are well fed. Next we moved on to the elephants, lions, birds, and ducks. The turtles in the pond were a big thing too.
Through all of this Campbell and Trenton just enjoyed the ride in their strollers. Considering they both missed a morning nap they were amazingly happy. It is hard to believe that just yesterday we were pushing Trinity and Kaylee around like this...where does the time go? After pushing Campbell around in her old stroller I realized just why I had bough a lightweight stroller for Kaylee so long ago. Glad I have a new one ordered since the old one broke a week ago. As we were nearing the exit our husbands called to say they were done with golf and on the way home. Yeah!! That means girl time is around the corner. We took a brief trip around ACU so Trinity could see where Steph went to college and then picked up lunch for the little girls and headed back home.

Once we were home we dropped off all the kids and went to have a "girly" lunch at Under One Roof in Becker's Loft. It was fun to have some time with Steph and go in shops I do not dare take a stroller because of all the things within reach of little hands. We even managed to find a few things to buy...I know that no one can believe that. (ha,ha) It was sorta like old times when we would go to lunch and shop after ladies class. I really miss those days. After a few hours we called our husbands to meet us with the kids for some yummy Chinese food. We were all full and tired once we returned home. After bathtime we were all off to bed early so we would be ready for early church in the morning.

Here are all our children after church on Sunday. They all looked so cute!! We had a delicious lunch at Joe Allen's BBQ. Then we returned home for the little ones to nap and the rest of us to relax a little. Kaylee and Trinity had fun playing in the playroom and outside.

After the babies woke up we tried to get a picture of them in their ACU attire but it was not as successful as we had hoped. I needed a much faster camera to catch these two smiling at the same time. Maybe we will try again in another month or so when we are together. I was sad to see our sweet friends go but I am already looking forward to our next time together. Thanks for coming Ownbys. Hopefully some of our other friends will follow your lead and make the journey too. For all our friends reading this "Yes," that is a big hint to you to come see us anytime!!

Fun with Friends!!

I am so glad that it is Friday!!! I have been waiting for today all week. My house is clean and we are getting company for the weekend:) It is hard to tell who is more excited Kaylee or me because we have both been on the countdown all week. The Ownbys are coming!! They will be our first friends from Dallas to come visit. Little does Campbell know that her boyfriend is coming too. There is just something so nice about being able to relax with good friends. The whole weekend is planned starting with steaks tonight and a late birthday celebration for Steph and an early celebration for Trenton. I have baked the cake and it smells so good! Of course, there will be plenty of pictures on my post Monday.

Well I am off to finish a few last minute things. Kaylee and I had lunch with the Baileys today and Lisa was sweet enough to take Kaylee home so I could get a few more things done. I should make good use of that time. Hope you all have a great weekend too!

Nightime Humor

Lately Kaylee has tried to think of every excuse in the book to get out of her bed at night. Here is the Top Ten List:

10. "The books are boring and I need some new ones to make me go to sleep faster."

9. "There are too many things going on in my head to sleep."

8. "Shark Boy, Lava Girl, and Max won't stop talking to me!" (they have lived with us since last Summer when she saw the movie...good imagination.)

7. "Shark Boy, Lava Girl, and Max are spreading jelly all over my walls."

6. "I think I need to go to the bathroom." (This comment happens on her second trip to the potty.)

5. "I am itchy on my back and need some lotion."

4. "When I close my eyes it is dark." (Can't argue with that.)

3. "My tummy keeps telling me it is thirsty." (When her first cup of juice is empty prompting comment #6.)

2. "My head tells me I am tired but my body just won't listen!" (This is after catching her standing on the headboard of her bed.)

1. "My pants on the floor are scaring me. I am afraid they are going to jump up and start dancing around the room."

Cary and Kaylee had a conversation on the way to school the other day about #8 that went something like this...
Kaylee, "Daddy I am sorry I kept you up last night." Cary, "That's okay Kaylee...I think it is time for Shark Boy, Lava Girl and Max to find another home if they cannot let you sleep at night." Kaylee, "I do not think so." Cary, "Maybe they need to sleep in the shed." Kaylee, "Then I will sleep in the shed too." Cary,"Okay." After a short silence Kaylee says, "I do not think I want to sleep in the shed." Cary, "Okay."

I would love to hear some of your favorite stalling tactics from your kiddos! Have a great day!!

Trophy Time!!

Well Tuesday night was the official end of Kaylee's first soccer season. The BIG night had finally arrived! It was trophy time!! On game days were Kaylee was not into it we just had to say the word "trophy" and she was back in the game. Coach James and Leslie were so sweet and booked a room at MR.Gatti's for the awards and fun. (They also were kind enough to pay for each child's pizza and tokens.) Who wouldn't love pizza, games and trophys? The minute we walked in the door we heard,"KAYLEEEEEE!" Kaitlyn was so happy to see her friend and what a great greeting. When award time came Coach James was so sweet to say kind words about each girl and the personality that they brought to the team. (It really is a nice group of girls.) Kaitlyn had fun passing out all the trophys too. After trophy and food time it was off to play games. Since I was taking care of Campbell and Cary was getting more pizza Kaylee asked one of the other Dad's to take her to play games. I had to laugh, you just never know with that girl. Of course, Cary returned in a minute and went to play the games with her. I think Kaylee's second favorite time of the night was getting to cash in her tickets from the games and get three prizes. We all had a great time and look forward to another season! (I asked Kaylee if she wanted to play in the fall and she said,"I just want to spend some time with my family." After I explained that fall was a long time away she said she would probably be ready by then. My funny girl:) I treasure that moment so much because I know that one day she will want time away from her parents. I am glad that day is not today.

"MOM, I don't have time for this right now."

Kaylee with her friend Kaitlyn.

Kaylee with her favorite Coach, Coach James.

Well this weekend was full of college friends and family fun! It all started on Friday night when we went to Perini Ranch with some sweet college friends and their children. The evening was perfect for eating out in the country. Our table was next to a screen door that lead outside so it was perfect for the kids to run and play before the food arrived. We actually got in some adult conversation since the kids were entertained outside. Afterwards we went to their house to visit some more and let the kids play.

Saturday we slept in since we were out late the night before. After my sweet husband fixed french toast for breakfast we went to run errands. We did not get as much accomplished as I would have liked but lunch called. Next we decided to go to the zoo. The zoo here is small but good. You cannot beat a year long family pass for $35 and it only being about 8 minutes from the house. There is a great park next to the zoo also. Kaylee loved the monkeys and the giraffes. The giraffes can reach up to the bridge so you can feed them food. Campbell finally crashed in the stroller about half way through the zoo. I forgot the camera but I am sure many trips are in our future. Also I got Kaylee signed up for zoo camp. How fun is that?

Today we went to church and ate a great lunch at Johnny Carinos with some other college friends. Then I took a brief nap and Cary spent all afternoon into the evening cleaning up the garage and putting Christmas decorations in the attic. I think he was tired of Christmas by the time he was done. Thanks for all your hard work Dear:)

Well I am off to get stuff together for tomorrow. It is a MOPS day!

Little Things

"Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things." Robert Brault

This is the quote at the beginning of an email my sweet friend Claire sent me. A company named Sugar Photography produced this video of a family in their daily life. (Kleenex warning!) The mother is fighting cancer and their friends wanted the children to have something special to treasure forever. Please say a prayer for this family. This reminded me that my problems are small and it is the little things in our daily life that matter. I know I am going to hug my family extra hard tonight and say an extra prayer.

Just wanted to share something that touched me. May each of you have a blessed day. (If anyone knows the title and/or artist singing the song in the video would you let me know?)

Super Suppers is Super!!

I finally got to do something I have been wanting to do for a long time...I went to Super Suppers and had a blast! If you have never been you have to get a group of friends together and go. They have private parties and if you are the one who books the parties you could get your 12 meals free! I only bought the 6 meal deal but brought home enough food for 12 meals. Each entree feeds 6-8 people. All the food looks great. Since we booked a private party they even had treats for us. (The scones were incredible:) I think it was totally worth the money since I have 12 meals and do not have to worry about what to cook for about two weeks. That alone makes me happy.

Each week is getting easier for me around here. I have not blogged about this much because I have been trying to pray more and complain/feel sorry for myself less. Moving can be and has been very lonely at times but things are looking up. I really enjoyed meeting a lot more ladies from the class tonight and had a wonderful time! Slowly my weeks are filling up and I hope to be back to full speed by Summer with a group of fun girls to hang out with. It has been a challenge to go from knowing everyone to knowing no one, but one I am willing to tackle. (My heart will always miss my BFF and PC class.) Sometimes the Lord takes us out of our comfort zone to make us refocus. (Not a bad thing.) We do have a lot more family time, more time for the Lord, and a much slower pace around here were the goals.

On a different note Kaylee was telling me what she wanted for breakfast this morning and picked Lucky Charms. This is not an unusual thing but she said the reason she picked it was because of the "healthy seal on the side of the box". The seal on the side actually says "choose breakfast". I thought that was very observant and cute of her. That's my girl thinking Lucky Charms are healthy.

Family, Easter, & More Easter!!

Our FUN weekend started on Friday when Papa, Nana, and Great Papaw arrived at our house. The Easter surprises started right off the bat with two new movies for Kaylee. (The surprise for me was that Nana had come bearing food which meant not a lot of cooking for me.) We managed to enjoy each other that night and to rest up for the next days activities. Mom and I did run a few errands and get some Starbucks though:)

Saturday started with a leisurely breakfast which was nice. Then we were off and running to Kaylee's last soccer game. I have to say she was not really into the game this week. Her mind was mostly on the Easter Egg Hunt after the game. She did manage to get the ball towards the goal once but no goal this week. The game was over at 12:40pm and we were off and running to our church for the Easter Egg Hunt which started at 1:00pm. After a little quick change in the car into an Easter shirt and shorts in was time to grab the basket and hunt. My daughter did not want to pick up any old egg...she only wanted the ones that she liked. That's my girl!!

While all of this was going on Campbell was laid back in her stroller and eating her lunch or being held by Daddy or Papa. I am so glad she is a go with the flow kinda girl because we drug her all over the place today. What a Big First Easter for her. I promised her it would be more fun next year!
As soon as the hunt was over Kaylee went for a ride in the train type cars with her friend Reid who goes to church and school with her. (He was her "boyfriend" till last week when Chloe decided she wanted him to be her boyfriend. Such drama from 4 year olds!) Next we were off to the gym where they had set up a jump house and big blow-up slide. After about 40 minutes of that we convinced her to leave because we were thirsty and had not eaten lunch yet. As Papa and Nana were leaving the parking lot Kaylee realized she had two prize eggs so she took them inside to get her prizes. You would have thought she had won a million dollars.

Today has consisted of pictures and surprises. Kaylee woke up to find the Easter Bunny (aka Papa & Nana) had left her a big girl bicycle. What a great Easter Bunny!! Campbell got a cute ride-on toy too courtesy of Nana & Papa Bunny. These are two very loved girls who are more blessed than they will ever know. I know that Cary and I have been given more blessings than ever imagined. Thank you, Lord! Of course, they both got other Easter treats too like candy, books, clothes, and stuffed bunnies. Next it was off to church to focus on the real meaning of this holiday. Kaylee told us about how Jesus died then rose to save us. I was pretty proud of her ability to grasp that much. Then we went back home for a delicious Easter lunch. Followed by an Easter Egg Hunt in the backyard and some good strawberry pie. Now Papa, Nana, and Great Papaw have left to return home for I am sure some much needed rest. We sure did enjoy their visit. Time seemed to pass so quickly. More pictures are posted on my flickr if you would like to see.

It has been a wonderful Easter!! I am so thankful that Jesus died on the cross for our sins and rose again. Now we are able to witness miracles in our life each day and be forgiven when we do not notice them.


Happy Easter to all of our friends and family that are our blessings and miracles each day!! May we always realize the treasure we have in each of you. God bless you all!

A Fun Founder's Day

Well Saturday was a great day around our house. Kaylee had an early morning soccer game. It was actually quite chilly outside. She did a good job in the game with two assists on the goals. Of course she had Mom, Dad, and Grandma cheering her on this week. I think she is ready for soccer to be over for a little bit. She will miss Coach James and Kaitlyn though. Next week is the last game till Fall so hopefully the Butterflies will continue to excel.

After the game we came home to change and went to the Founder's Day celebration downtown. It was fun because most everything was for the kids.
There were some bounce houses, slides, and even a little combat type air mat. Kaylee made fast friends with a little boy who was also going on the slide so they raced each other up the stairs and down the huge slide a few times. Next it was on to lunch which consisted of sausage on a stick, foot long corndogs, and funnel cake. Delicious!! There was also a tent full of games for the kids. Kaylee mainly did the fishing game and I have to say got pretty good at casting her reel. Her favorite part was getting the frisbee as a prize.
Until she discovered the Barrel Train!! She just hopped right on board and loved riding all over the street. Cary and I realized how big she has gotten when she did not need our help getting onto the train car. She does still however need help getting off which made us feel a little more needed. I still sit and wonder where the past 4 years have gone.(I cannot think about it too long because it makes me so sad.)

Notice I have not mentioned Campbell because she had missed her morning nap and spent most of her time at Founder's day like this... Bless her little heart she was so tired. The screaming, band playing, and train going by failed to wake her. After a little nap she was ready to eat and look around. I am happy to say even though she still does not have much hair she will soon have two teeth. Yeah!! I was beginning to think my sweet girl would be toothless and hairless for her first birthday. So far Campbell is handeling the teething like a pro. I still cannot believe in two months she will be ONE!! ( Can't think about that either.)

All in all the Beards had a great weekend!! Kaylee is looking forward to hunting Easter eggs and I am looking forward to another fun weekend coming up:)

I can't believe it is Thursday already!!

Why is it that each week seems busier than the one before?

Monday I enjoyed getting to know some of the ladies in my class by attending BUNKO! It was so much fun to chat, play, and get to know each other. They even play for real money of which I won none of because the luck of the dice was not with me. Most of all I enjoyed reconnecting with a friend from my Siggie days at ACU. It was nice to catch up and see where our lives have gone.

Tuesday was a fun day for Kaylee because she got to see farm animals at school. The whole way home I heard about the 1 week old goat that ate from its Momma while they were watching. Also evidently she got to sit on a donkey which was fun.

Wednesday was laundry day as usual...nothing too exciting.

Today Kaylee enjoyed school while Campbell and I ran some errands. After school Kaylee got to accompany me to Campbell's late 9 month appointment. All of you Mom's know how much fun it is to entertain two children at the doctor's office. There was a nice lady there that is part of the grandparent program who reads books to children in the waiting room. Kaylee kept her busy reading. The sweet lady told Kaylee she was smart and Kaylee responded with, "My whole family is smart"! I wanted to fall in a hole. You just never know with that girl. I cannot wait till I have two telling all about our lives.
Campbell is 22lbs. 10oz. and 29 inches long. She had gained a pound in three weeks. I suppose that means she is healthy. Campbell screamed the whole time the doctor was looking at her which I am sure was enjoyable for him. She did not get a shot though because they have never requested her shot record so they were not sure what she needed. They have had us as a patient since December and the thought of a shot record never crossed their minds. I still miss Dr. Blair especially at times like these:(
After returning home I got an email that my sweet friend Alyssa had Camryn today and all went well. What a great way to end the day.

Well I suppose that is all for now. Hopefully I will get some fun pictures this weekend at the Founder's Day Celebration! Enjoy your weekend.

Bathroom, Grandparents, & a Date

Well we had a busy weekend...

Friday: We finally got the girls bathroom finished! All we have to do now is add a rug and a few decorative accents. It is so nice for them to actually be able to use their own bathroom for baths and stuff. I will post pictures when it is completely finished.

Saturday: My parents came into town to visit and watch Kaylee play soccer. Mom, Kaylee, and I went to do a little shopping at Tuesday Morning. Of course, Kaylee talked Mom into almost everything in the store. That's what grandparents are for, right? I just love Tuesday Morning! I found the cutest baby gift for a lady at church for under $10.00. Next we picked up lunch and enjoyed talking until time to leave for the game.

Speaking of the game, Kaylee was so excited to have Papa and Nana there to watch her. In the first minute or two of the game Kaylee scored a GOAL!! She was so excited she had to come get high-fives from all of us. You would have thought she had gottent he best gift ever. Then she kept telling the fill-in-coach "that's my family!!!" and pointing to us. The rest of the game was spent with her watching us more than paying attention. I suppose she thought after one goal her job was done. She did have a few conversations with Shark Boy, Lava Girl, and Max on the field. I cannot wait to ask the fill-in-coach at practice just what Kaylee was telling him on the field because he kept laughing. There is not telling with my girl:)

After a snowcone and Kaylee riding her tricycle for a little while my parents kept the girls so we could have a date. A real date!! I think the last one we went on was in February. We decided to go eat at Cypress Street. I just love old restaurants in downtown districts. Since I had not eaten there since college I thought it would be fun. Also it is somewhere we would not take the girls. The meal was fabulous and the best part was we had the restaurant all to ourselves. When we got there another group was leaving and no one else came in the whole time we were there. Needless to say the waitstaff was very attentive. I was sure to tell Cary thanks for reserving the restaurant just for us.(ha,ha) After eating we enjoyed a stroll downtown and got to look through one of the storefront windows at a wedding reception. The bride looked beautiful and the cake was very cute. What is it about weddings that always makes your eyes teary and your stomach want cake? Next we were off to shop and little and get a Starbuck's before returnign home. It was nice to just be with each other a little. I still have the best date around!!

Sunday: We awoke to the smell of coffee and cinnamon rolls. It was so nice to have Mom and Dad here:) I could wake up to that every morning. After scrambling around we were off to church. Both of the girls were great!! Campbell went to her teacher without a second thought of me. They said she participated (as much as a nine months old can I suppose) and then played after class without a sound. I am so glad she is adjusting to being left. Kaylee too had fun in class and told us all about it at lunch. Today was my parents anniversary. They are such a wonderful example to Cary and I. It was good to be with them on this special day. We enjoyed a nice lunch at Red Robin, Kaylee rode her tricycle some more, and then Papa & Nana left. The rest of the afternoon was spent with the girls napping (me included)and Cary doing a few tax returns.

We had a wonderful weekend and hopefully we will have a great week. I am already looking forward to the weekend because the town is celebrating Founder's Day and there is a lot going on downtown. Plus we have another soccer game to look forward to.

Surprise!!

My sweet husband (and daughters) decided to surprise me today with one of my favorite things...FLOWERS! I almost hugged the delivery man I was so excited. The card was even better...

Just because...you make every day beautiful.

We love you,
Cary, Kaylee,& Campbell

Thanks for making my day sweetheart. After a week of feeling horrible it was the best surprise. I love you too!! I am blessed beyond measure with my wonderful family. Thank you Lord:)

Never as Planned

Well our week was not quite what I had planned. Of course, I should have known on Sunday night when I started sneezing that I was in for a trip to the doctor. Why is it the over the counter remedies that seem to work for other never help me?

Last Monday started with a trip to the doctor for Campbell where he looked at me and said the words every mother hates who has just sat in a waiting room for an extended period of time which is ..."Well she could be sick or it could just be teething...call me at the end of the week if she is not better and I will call in some medicine." Are you kidding me? I have been alive long enough to know that green stuff pouring out of my daughter's nose every time she sneezes is not normal. Whatever...I just sat and looked at him till he gave me a few samples to try. Long story short there were more meds called in for Campbell on Friday and she is finally feeling better.

Of course I chose to wait my sickness out a little longer hoping my stubborn nature would "will" it away and we had some friends coming in town on Friday to visit and I was not going to miss that. We did manage to enjoy catching up with some friends and having a great dinner together...there is something so nice about reconnecting with old friends.

However, the next morning I was at the Doc in a Box to get some meds for me. This doctor was much more eager to help me and attentive to my need to get well fast. After a shot in one of my least favorite places and a nice Z-pack I am finally on the road to recovery. Maybe by tomorrow I will be able to actually smell and taste my food again.

I did throw myself out of bed this morning to attend my first MOPS (Mothers of Pre-Schoolers) meeting and met some nice women. We listened to a veteran kindergarten teacher and an elementary principal talk about how to get our children ready for school. I enjoyed listening and was glad I still have another year. The tear jerker was the reading of The Kissing Hand almost all of the Moms in the room were teary. Of course I left Campbell in class crying but the sweet ladies watching her said she quit very quickly. It is still so hard to leave one of my children crying...will that ever be easier? Kaylee just ran right into class and made herself at home then did not want to leave when it was time to go. The only way I got her out of the room was to say we were going to get Daddy for lunch. Lunch with Daddy was definitely our treat for the day. It is so much fun to be able to enjoy midday Daddy time for all of us. We will see what the rest of the week holds.

I can tell Spring Break is over...

Well we had a great trip to Waco last week for Kaylee's spring break. Nana and Papa spoiled us as usual. They girls even got in a little time with their Great-PaPaw. It is so much fun to see how much my girls adore their grandparents. Of course Kaylee managed to talk Nana into three new movies. Her reasoning was that the two she really wanted only had one left in the slot so by the time they came back to get the other one it would be gone. I love the way her mind works already. I am in for a challenge,I know.
We also enjoyed stopping by Mom's work where all the ladies are so sweet to the girls. Kaylee loves all of the attention but Campbell was a little shy. Maybe the next time they will both enjoy the attention.

I think my parents each have their girl to love. Kaylee will go anywhere with Nana and if she leaves the room for even a moment Kaylee wants to know where she is. Nana can do no wrong in Kaylee's eyes...it is so cute. Of course when Nana offered to watch Campbell so Kaylee and I could go to a movie Kaylee said she would rather go with Nana. I am glad they have such a sweet relationship. Not that Kaylee does not love her Papa (especially when she wants to watch a DVD or jump on the mini trampoline) but Nana usually rules the roost.

Then there is Campbell who so far prefers her Papa. She grins all over herself when she sees Papa. (as you can see from this picture) They can even aggravate each other already. When Papa is not paying her enough attention she squeals very loudly while looking at Papa to which he turns around and says "Stop that". She waits till he turns back around and does it again. This could go on for sometime because Campbell thinks it is so funny. He is also her favorite person to butt heads with. (Her version of love.) She loves her Nana too but if Papa is in the house he is her preference.

Of course she loves Great PaPaw too because he will get on the floor and entertain her. They are so cute to watch and I feel very blessed to have a Grandfather around for both my girls to enjoy.

The only glitch in the trip was having to pay $1800.00 to get some electronic part of the ABS brakes fixed on the Tahoe. Why is it everytime you think you are going to have extra money something falls apart? Oh well at least we know that is fixed.

I can truly tell Spring Break is over because it is cool outside, Kaylee keeps asking if we are going somewhere, Campbell is sick, and our hot water heater is not working and no one can service it till tomorrow. Welcome back to the real world I suppose. Hopefully the rest of the week will be better.

9 Months Old!!!

My precious little girl turned 9 months old yesterday! It is so hard for me to believe that Campbell has been out in the world that long. As others have posted before me, I just feel like she is still so small. I remember thinking Kaylee was so big at this age. Maybe it was because I had nothing to compare her to. Anyway I just wanted to document more for me the many things she is up to right now.

* She loves to do anything her sister is doing or at least try to.

* When she wants to give someone love she will lean her head forward to meet you half way and bump heads very gently with you and open her mouth like she is going to give you a big kiss.

* When she gets excited she shakes all over and kicks her feet.

* Says "Momma" on occassion. (I love this one.)

* Is trying to pull up on furniture and anything else so that she can walk or at least stand and look around.

* Loves to be the center of attention. If she is not getting enough attention she will either blow her lips or screech very loudly then smile when you look at her.

* Does not like to be left alone especially by me. She will cry huge tears and not calm down till I or someone else comes to her rescue.

* Loves to sleep...just lay her down and she is gone to dream land.

* Prefers to eat baby food or table food over a bottle.

* Will crawl all around in the room she is in but will not follow me to another room. Prefers to cry till I come back.

* Adores her silkie (lovie) it can always calm her down.

* Adores her sister!

Just a few things Campbell is doing these days. Hope you all are enjoying your little ones.

A Great End to a Long Week!

Today was another beautiful day for soccer! The game was at 10:15am so we had a little time to lay around and eat breakfast together before rushing out the door. After a brief warm up on the field the "Butterflies" were ready to play. Especially our little Butterfly who could not wait for the game to begin. Within two minutes of the game starting our precious daughter had her first unassisted GOAL!! She was so excited you would have thought it was her birthday. She first ran to the sidelines with a huge smile on her face to give Cary and I high-fives. We told her "good job" and that we were proud of her then we had to tell her to get back on the field and play because the game was still going on. Of course it thrilled us both that she came running to us. (a true moment to treasure) After running as fast as she could back onto the field she got high-fives from her teammates and coach which made her day. The rest of the game went pretty quickly with only one other goal being scored. They did manage to keep the other team from scoring at all though. Kaylee never once said she was tired this week during the game and is already talking about the next game. Cary may have a little athlete afterall.(because we all know that "gift" would not be from me) Who would have thought I would grow up to be a soccer Mom?

Well tomorrow starts Kaylee's Spring Break so we are off to Waco to see Papa, Nana, and Great PaPaw. It is our turn to get a little spoiling:) Kaylee will definitely be on Cloud 9 since she gets her every heart's desire at my parent's house. I know that is how it should be. I suppose I have mentioned to Kaylee that I will enjoy spoiling my grandkids one day because we had a little conversation about it the other night before bed which went something like this.

Kaylee: "I am going to get married one day, right?"

Me: "Someday, yes."

Kaylee: "Then you will get to have grandkids because my kids will be your grandkids. That will be fun, huh Mom."

Me: "Yes, that will be fun because I will get to spoil them then send them home to you."

Kaylee: "That's okay because I am going to live next door with my husband."

Me: "That would be perfect...I pray that comes true."

Kaylee: "Me too Mom because I do not ever want to be too far away from you, Daddy, or Campbell. You're my forever family."

If only she would always want to stay close. I know one day when she has bigger wings she will fly away only returning home when she can...in my heart of hearts it is what I want for her. However, right now I am going to treasure evey moment of every day.

Both of my sweet girls are at a very fun age right now. Kaylee is learning more and more each day about how things work in the world. Campbell is learning to find her own voice and that if she wants something she has to crawl to it. No more bringing it to her. It's a hard lesson for my baby. I am truly blessed and I try not to take it for granted. Thank you Lord.

The BIG Game...and the rest of the weekend!

This weekend was a jam packed one for us. First Kaylee had a birthday party to attend for a friend in her class at school. It was a fun party in the children's area at The Grace downtown. I think Kaylee's favorite part was driving the car. ( and eating the cake too of course) Kaylee also had two soccer games to play due to one being cancelled last weekend. She was so excited to have her "Butterflies" uniform on for the first time. It is about three sizes too big like all the other girls but that just makes it all the more adorable. The first game was played on Saturday. Coach James is so good with the girls. You can see the team warming up in this picture. The famous "Butterfly" stretch. The best part of playing at this age is that there is no pressure. No score is kept. All the girls get an equal amount of playing time. Also at the end of the season all the girls get the same trophy.
You can see in this picture they are getting a little pep talk.) They actually split each team into two teams -- so that two games are going on at the same time and all the girls get to play. Once, Kaylee got the ball and got to dribbling so well that she just kept going past the goal, onto the adjacent field where the other half of the team was playing, made a right turn and kept going through the middle of that game. It was some great dribbling, though.

Our favorite part of the game was toward the end. The drama was high because the score was tied (at least we think it was, no one was actually keeping score). Kaylee's feet got tangled with an opponent and Kaylee went down (only the second fall!!). The other girl reached out a hand and helped her up. Then a second girl on the other team joined Kaylee and the first girl in the all important job of dusting the grass off of Kaylee's uniform. All three girls were bent at the waist and dusting Kaylee's socks while the ball was on the other end of the field. It was a priceless moment that Cary was actually able to catch on film. After the uniform was sufficiently clean, Kaylee and the second girl noticed that they were both number 11. So you see each of them taking turns spinning around showing each other the number on their back and talking about who knows what. It was a proud moment for me because she showed that she is definitely my daughter by being more interested in the "social" aspect than the game.

Sunday's game was even better. Kaylee began to get the hang of things and actually assisted one of her teammates in scoring a goal. She even was able to stop the ball and turn it around to the direction of her team's goal. Yeah!! We even made it through the whole game without her saying she was tired or thirsty. Now she cannot wait for the next game. We cannot wait either!! We are so proud of our little athlete.

Now on to Campbell. She is crawling everywhere she wants to go. That does not mean that she will not just sit there and pitch a fit if she is tired of moving though. She made it in the nursery on Sunday for the whole class time without me being paged! When I went to pick her up they said that she only cried once when she hit her head and they put her in the swing. Evidently she really liked the swing because when they tried to move her to a table for class time she would have nothing to do with it. So they put her back in the swing and she went to sleep. I said whatever works but I think it is funny we do not even have a swing at home. Here is a picture from the game. Campbell enjoyed supporting Kaylee with her friend Kaitlyn. They were so cute watching from the sidelines. Occassionally Kaitlyn tried to sneak on the field which was so funny. I am sure by next year I will be chasing Campbell off the field and Leslie can laugh at me:)Campbell is such a happy baby most of the time. She loves to watch Kaylee all of the time though. I love my girls!!

Sorry for the long post...hope you all had a great weekend too:)

The Girls are Back!

Well we had a great trip to Dallas. The girls did much better than I expected in the car. I do think once Campbell is facing forward we may have to break down and get a TV for the car. Time will tell on that one. It was so nice to get to see our friends and have some girl time. As you can see from the picture all of the children had a blast at the Cowboy/girl Party for three of Kaylee's sweet friends. They roped a horse, pinned the badge on the sheriff, put the pigs in the pig pen, and had sack races. All of the Moms involved went to a lot of trouble but the children loved every minute of the chaos. My friend Amy did a great job making the cake too. I just enjoyed watching all of the fun. Kaylee has already asked when their next party will be...not for a while I am afraid all the Birthday Moms need a break.

Campbell had a lot of fun with her boyfriend too. They were so cute smiling at each other and looking for each other when they woke up each day. I think she looked for Trenton this morning and was a little confused by his absence. I cannot wait to see what fun things they will be doing the next time we visit. They are both growing up too quickly.

Kaylee and Trinity played so well together the past few days with minimal arguing. Our big girls are growing up too. Kaylee had so much fun at Sunshine School on Monday. The directors and her teacher let her come visit for the day. On the way to school she wanted to know what letter they were on in class. When Honey told her they were on "R or S" Kaylee sighed and said " I sure have missed a lot of letters!" Mrs. Leslie said she wanted to know exactly how many letters she had missed so they counted them together. She asked Kaylee if they wrote their letters at her new school in Abilene and Kaylee said,"Well we just sing the alphabet which I learned 3 years ago...I do not think the teachers there know how to write their letters." Too funny! Kaylee was so excited all day long. Her teacher said she just sat and watched everyone and smiled. When I picked her up at the end of the day she said,"Well Mom everybody still loves me!" So cute! That afternoon she and Trinity both got a treat because Uncle Mark took them to see Curious George and they LOVED it! They were so excited with faces beaming as they left for the theatre. When they returned there were two wiped out girls in our house. After all the children were in bed Honey and I went for a late dinner with Traci and Amy. It was great to laugh and catch up on everyone's life. It is so wonderful to have such close friends to talk to and lean on.

The next day I got to visit some friends at Ladies Class and Kaylee got to go to her class too. It was good to see so many women that I admire and love. I was a little worried about Campbell in the nursery since we have a little seperation issue but she loved Mrs. Kathryn so I actually got a little break from both kiddos. I enjoyed lunch and some shopping with Honey, Nicole, and Chelsea. We laughed and just enjoyed our time together. Then later that day I attended a baby shower and got to catch up with even more friends!

On Wednesday we packed up for home but not before enjoying a fun lunch with friends. Kaylee got to play with Lauren, Kamdyn, Garrison, and Trinity on Trinity's fun swing set while the adults talked. They loved having a McDonald's picnic outside too. We had some hot children after about an hour because it was 90 degrees outside! It was a perfect end to a wonderful week. Thank you again Mark and Honey for letting us crash at your home for a few days.

Now we are back to the routine around here. Kaylee is at school and later we will have soccer practice. This weekend she has two games and a birthday party! It should be fun. Hope you all have a great weekend!

Random Happenings for the Week...

This has been a fairly normal week with the exception of Valentine's Day which we got to spend eating a delicious free dinner with our sweet friends from college and beyond David Todd and Lisa. The University Church here in town has a Valentine's dinner every year that is put together by Carl and Smitty Brecheen.(Dr. Brecheen is one of the best bible and marriage teachers in the world.) The decorations were very cute and the waitstaff was top notch...I mean how often do you have a chance to be waited on by Dr.Gary and Sylvia McCaleb. I do not think I met Dr.McCaleb the whole time I attended ACU, well maybe once so I was a little awe struck. There was a wonderful speaker and free childcare too. At the end of the evening I was even in the chair that got to take home the centerpiece which was a beautiful potted plant. I am going to try to keep it alive. What a great evening!

Kaylee has a great week at school of course who wouldn't when there is a party involved? I do not know who enjoyed her Valentine's box we decorated more her or me. I remember being so excited to open my box and check out all the goodies and what my friends had written to me. It was fun to watch her excitement. When I picked her up from school I had a Valentine's balloon for her which had Hershey's kisses in a sack at the bottom of the string. I told her it was from Daddy and I. She quickly inserted, "and Campbell". I said "oh yes and Campbell" Campbell pionted at the one she wanted me to get. (reached and pulled would be more accurate) Then Kaylee said,"Campbell you are so smart to pick the one with candy. You sure are a smart baby!" Does somebody love her sister or what? Next we were off to visit Cary at the office and take him some balloons and candy. All of the women there are so sweet and make the girls feel so special when we stop by. Kaylee enjoyed showing them her loot. She is at such a fun age right now and I am enjoying our talks so much and watching the world through her eyes.

Campbell is now up on hands and knees rocking back and forth. Cary said she crawled a little last night but I was in the other room. I was surprised to open the door to her room the other day and find her talking and sitting up in her bed looking around. It is a little startling when you are use to them just laying there. She is getting a little more hair but alas still no teeth. I am happy to report most of the time that she is still a "Momma's Girl" which is fine with me except when I am trying to attend Ladies Class and they come get me in the first 5 minutes. Oh, well. That's my girl:)

A few thing that never happened in Dallas:

1. We got ready for church Sunday night only to arrive and find out that they were delivering cookies to the nursing homes that night.(Obviously not the church we had gone to that morning or we would have known that.) So we went to Wal-Mart and Cracker Barrel instead.

2. I stopped to get gas at the HEB on Tuesday and as I pulled into the pump the attendant came over and tied bags around the 87 and 89 octane gas because they were out. I was about to leave instead of paying $2.29 a gallon for super unleaded when he knocked on my window and told me in a minute the price would change to the 87 octane price. I got a full tank of Super Unleaded gas for $2.09 a gallon. That was by far my deal for the week.

3. I went to Sam's for a few things and after checking out the cashier told me that "I looked young for my age". Am I that old? I think 32 is still pretty young. I am going to take it as a compliment since she looked to be about 21 years old. I suppose I would be old to her. I wanted to say, "Your day is coming sister." Maybe I will wear the outfit I have on today everyday. Good thing it is comfortable.

4. I had about 10 people 50 and over stop me in Sam's to tell me how cute Campbell looked in her "bib" overalls. Yes, I am in the country now. It was pretty cute though.

5. I had a 1/4 pound hamburger with all the toppings and a large drink for $1.88. It was delicious and homemade.

6. Last of all I left the house at 12:10pm and went to mail packages at the post office. I was at Sam's shopping by 12:40pm. Checked out and went home to unload the groceries at 1:45pm. Stopped for lunch at 2:05pm. Sat in the school parking lot and ate my lunch and still picked Kaylee up early at 2:20pm. I think I am finally getting use to having more time. What a blessing!

That is all for us this week. Hope you all have a wonderful and blessed weekend. Anyone coming in for Sing Song better either stop by or call to atleast say "Hi". Love to you all!

Happy Valentine's Day, Sweetheart!!

I just wanted to take today to tell the one I love Happy Valentine's Day! Sweetheart this one's for you.... where do I even begin with my wonderful husband?? I thought I would start with the Top 14 Reasons I Love You:
1. Your wonderful Christian leadership in our home.
2. The way you always know what I am going to say before I say it.
3. The LOVE you have for me unconditionally.
4. When you smile my heart still beats faster just like it did the first time we met in 1996.
5. Somehow you make each year of our marriage better than the one before.
6. Just watching you with our daughters and the way you absolutely adore them and they you.
7. The way you always encourage me to take time for myself while you watch the girls.
8. Little things that you do for me each day that do not go unnoticed even though you may think so at times.
9. The servant heart and love you have for the Lord.
10. Comfort you give me when I am feeling down just by holding me and not saying a word because you know when I want to talk and when I just want to be silent.
11. The way you are always striving to do what is best for our family.
12. You helped give me the two best gifts I have ever received. Our beautiful girls!!
13. How you always make me feel like I am the luckiest girl in the world when you look at me like I am the most beautiful girl in the room where ever we go.
14. I always knew that you would be a wonderful father but I never knew just how great you would be until the time came. You are amazing!! Our girls will be blessed to find someone like you one day.(in the distant future)
As Kaylee always says and Campbell will too one day,"Daddy you are the best...out of all the Daddy's in the world I am glad you are mine....I love you to the moon and back." Thank you for being my Forever Valentine!! Thank you for being my rock and my soft place to land at the end of the day. Out of all the men in the world I am glad the Lord blessed me with you as my husband. I love you!!!

A Wonderful Retreat

Well I had an awesome weekend with my dearest girlfriends. The weekend started a little early for me because I went to stay with my friend Stephanie a little early. So on Thursday night I got to have dinner with Stephanie, Amy, and Amy's sweet family. It was nice to catch up on all of the events we have missed in the past month and a half. Next we went to meet Steph and Traci for a little talking and fun at Chili's. I also got some great birthday gifts! We laughed so hard that I almost cried at some points which was a reoccurring theme for the weekend. By the time we went to bed for the night I was so tired but looking forward to the Canton trip the next morning.

Friday we went to pick up Whitney and met Nicole then we were off to Canton to shop by 10:30am. I really enjoyed the ride because Nicole and I got to catch up since she was not able to go on the retreat later that day, somehow I managed to talk her into at least shopping with us. It did not take much convincing! Shopping in Canton at First Monday Trade Days is the best! I do not think I could go every month ( mainly because my pocketbook could not take it) but a few times a year is great. We all found some great deals for about 1/2 the price you could find them other places. I now have some cute outfits for the girls for this summer, an iron piece to hang above the bed, fancy pants for Campbell, and a full tummy from the yummy food. After shopping for about 5 hours we decided to go eat dinner then drive on to the retreat facilities. We had to say goodbye to Nicole but were about to say "hello" to many other friends I have been missing.

Now for the awesome part of the trip which was to take place at Sky Ranch in Van, TX. Our first speaker on Friday night was Kimberli Brackett from Faithbuilders who was extremely encouraging and inspiring. If you are ever planning a Ladies Retreat or have the opportunity to attend one where any of these women are speaking please attend because it will be worth it. The Friday night topic was on being a Child of God and learning to accept ourselves and others as such. It was enlightning and powerful. We had a chance to look at her Faithbooks after the talk where she has scrapbooked prayers and scriptures for her children to have along with photos of memories and special times. I am definitely going to get started on a few of these soon.

After a little sleep on Friday night it was Saturday and time for a good talk by Pat Scott which is always a blessing. Then we had free time which meant off to Canton for more shopping in new buildings and a return to some booths from the day before that we regretted not buying something in. Amber, Amy, Whitney, Stephanie, and I were all making our lists in our heads on the way there. I accomplished the purchase I set out for today which was getting Campbell some curtains for her room since the old curtain will not work in the new house. Everyone else managed to get the items they had set out for too. Four hours later we were back in the car complaining like old women about all of our aches and pains from two days of walking around. I have not laughed so much or so hard in a long time. We were able to get all of our purchases in the car so we did not do too much damage.

Saturday night we got to hear Kimberli speak again only this time it was on "Teaching Us How to Journal with God". The main point I took away from the talk is that I need to listen for God more and try to just do things on my own less. We were all given journals to help with our daily walk with the Lord by writing down prayers, hopes, things we are thankful for, and even times when we may be a little frustrated. I was also encouraged by the fact that this does not have to be done everyday so I do not have to feel like a failure if I skip a day or two.

Later that night I got to catch up a little with my friends Traci and Steph who had been very busy making sure the snacks were out for all of us to munch on! They always manage to make me laught. It was unfortunate we did not get to spend more time together:( but the time we did have was great!

Sunday was the last day and after a morning service we were off to Dallas of course we had to make one more quick trip to Canton on the way:) By the time I got to Dallas I was so tired but felt that I would only be more tired if I sat down for a minute so I got in the car and headed home. By the time I arrived home I was exhausted physically but filled spiritually. I found the house in order and the girls both happy upon my return. They had a great weekend with Daddy going to the ACU baseball game and he even managed to get them to early service at church. Thank you sweetheart for being such a wonderful husband and father to our girls. Most of all thank you for being able to handle things so I can have a weekend away every now and then. Everyone needs a weekend with God, friends, and renewal of the spirit. Now comes the hard part of applying all that I have learned daily. I am looking forward to the challenge. May each of you have a blessed week!

Until Next Year...

Well my birthday came and went with a few nice surprises. My morning started with my husband bringing me breakfast in bed.(surprise #1) Then I had Campbell sitting in the bed with me eating some bread (just small pieces) and she said her first word which was "Momma"! (surprise #2) Cary was my witness to this event so I know that I did not imagine it. She even repeated the word. I am so proud of her! Then my sweet friends Honey, Amy, and Heather called to wish me a "Happy Birthday". Next I spent the day doing laundry so that everything would be clean for my wonderful trip this weekend. Kaylee and I did enjoy a little one-on-one time while Campbell was asleep. Then while the girls were napping I got ready to go out on a dinner date with my sweet husband. (Thank you again to the Mayos for babysitting for us so we could have a free evening together.) On the way to dinner Cary gave me my present which was a new watch to wear on days when I am a little more dresses up. We had a great time at dinner and actually got to have a little adult conversation. The night ended with a sweet call from my friend Kathy in Tennessee. All in all it was a good birthday.

However, I think my best present is coming today when Cary is coming home from work a little early so I can go to Dallas for the Ladies Retreat. Kaylee is very excited about a weekend alone with Daddy...the jury is still out on Campbell because she is quite a Momma's girl. I do not think anyone is more excited than me though:) I have not seen my girlfriends since we moved which was over a month ago. What could not be fun about a Ladies Retreat, a child free weekend, shopping in Canton, and catching up with friends??? Well I am off to pack!!! Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend...I know I will.