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.