Fun! Fun! Fun!

The best 32 hour trip ever!! My friend from college and beyond, Lisa and I went to Dallas Market to get some things for her store. We left at 7:30am on Saturday with Starbucks in hand to begin the journey. We arrived at the Doubletree Hotel around 10:00am, parked the car, and got on a shuttle to take us to the land of milk and honey. I just have to say I love Dallas Market!! There are so many things that it is a little overwhelming...okay a lot overwhelming. What is better than snacking and shopping at the same time? All the exhibitors were so nice and helpful. On Saturday we just browsed and gathered information to ponder later that evening. After six hours of continuous shopping and information overload we went back to the hotel to process and talk. At 7:00pm we left the hotel to meet some of my best friends for dinner at Benihana. It was the best feeling to walk in and see everyone. I felt as if I was "back home" with all my friends whom I love so dearly. The conversations were constant, food was delicious, but the view of all their faces was the most wonderful part. Lisa had a good time meeting everyone and being able to put a face with the names she hears so often. It was a night full of good times. The party broke up at around 9:45pm and we returned back to the hotel. Lisa and I watched Rumor has It which I have to say was a big letdown. Then we talked ourselves to sleep.

Sunday we ate breakfast and headed back to Market to purchase the things we thought would sell the best in her shop. It was so much fun!! When the shipments come in it will be just like Christmas. I am especially excited about the cute squeaky shoes I ordered for Campbell and the store. Maybe they will encourage her to walk since she has almost grown out of the ones Amy M. gave us and is not walking yet. I think we are going to try to venture into some smocked outfits soon too. Fun! Fun! Fun! I am already looking forward to the next trip. (Maybe the next trip will be a little longer so some more of my sweet girlfriends can join us for dinner or something. I miss and love all of you girls so much!!!) Around 5:00pm we returned home to happy faces and loving hugs.
Pictures from the dinner will be below since blogger would not cooperate with me:)

The Girls & Me!!

Here are the pictures from Benihana since blogger would not cooperate on the previous post.

One Year Check-up

On Tuesday my sweet baby girl had her one year shots. The visit started off good because Campbell got a new book from the nurse, got weighed, and her height measured.(23lbs.4oz., 32 inches long) I had a nice visit with the doctor...I may have convinced him I am not so crazy anymore. Just when Campbell thought she was safe in came the nurse. I do not know who was more upset Kaylee or Campbell. Kaylee kept saying that Campbell did not need the shots because we could keep her healthy without them. I explained for the 10th time that she had to get them and she would be fine. As soon as the first shot went in Campbell's famous cry erupted...we might have cleared the waiting room who knows? As soon as the nurse left Kaylee was right beside Campbell telling her it would be alright because sister was there. She even tried to distract Campbell by talking about the cute band aids on her legs. Of course Campbell did not care and continued to cry while I was paying and we were trying to make a hasty exit. After we got back in the car Kaylee grabbed Campbell's hand to hold on the way home and kept telling her she loved her so much and she was so proud of her. Such a sweet Big Sister:)

Birthday Party Time

Well I am just going to warn everyone that this post will be a long one. We had to fit in Campbell's Birthday and Father's Day into one weekend and it was packed full of fun!!

On Friday we went to Pizza Hut and Sam's for Campbell's Birthday so it was a big day. (ha,ha) We decided to finally breakdown and buy a DVD player for the car so we would have it for long trips. It worked like a charm too. I think that was the first time I have ever gone to Sam's and only purchased one thing.

Saturday we left for Waco to celebrate Campbell's Birthday and Father's Day with my parents. Campbell woke up at 6:50am and still did not go to sleep in the car the whole three hour drive. that girl! After arriving at my parents house Kaylee looked out the backdoor to find a swingset that Papa had put together just for the girls. The expression on Kaylee's face was priceless. She had so much fun swinging and Campbell did too. After a little while GG, Aunt Trudy, and my Cousin Duncan arrived to get hte party started. We cooked out, visited, ate and then the big moment arrived THE CAKE. I was not sure how Campbell would do but she was hilarious. She started by picking at the frosting very carefully. After about 3 minutes she figured out what she was eating and dug in with both hands and pulled out big pieces of cake. The I suppose she was tired of getting her hands dirty so she picked the whole cake up and put it up to her face. Too funny!! As you can tell from this picture she had a wonderful time. Next came the presents which she seemed to like. Each gift was fun for her and she really wanted to play instead of moving on th the next package. Everyone was sweet to bring Kaylee some treats too so she would not feel left out. Both girls got some fun things and some treasures to keep forever. I think one of her favotire things from the party were the James Avery boxes that she carried around for a while. What baby girl doesn't need James Avery, right? Or Big girl for that matter. After the presents were over the girls went to play in the pool. For some reason blogger will not let me load pictures of that so I will put them in flicker. After pool time the girls got ready for bed and all of our family returned home. Thanks again to all of them for making Campbell's first birthday a real treasure!

Happy 1st Birthday Campbell Grace!!

A year ago today our second blessing in life was born. She managed to enter the world three weeks early and still weigh 7 lbs. 12oz. The day was perfect. I went in to see Dr. Sigman and she sent me to L&D. The delivery was fast and easy on Mom and Baby. Out of everything that happened I most remember the look on Kaylee's face when she saw her sister for the first time...it is the look I still see on Kaylee's face each morning when Campbell wakes up and enters the room.
Here are a few things that I want to remember about Campbell.

* She has the loudest cry, it is very distinct. She does not cry very often but when she does the whole world knows it. When we were in the hospital after she was born we heard this poor baby crying down the hall. Cary and I both looked at each other and commented about how we felt sorry for those parents. Soon the door opened and the screaming baby heard all over the maternity ward was ours. We still chuckle about that one.
* She loves attention.
* She still only has four teeth which she did not get till she was 9 months old.
* She has the best laugh, she can laugh so hard...especially at her sister. No one can make her laugh like Kaylee.
* I love the way she clings to me, lays her head on my chest, smiles real big, and looks at people out of the corners of her eyes when she thinks they are going to take her from me. It's her I am so cute but do not touch me look.
* She has no interest what-so-ever in walking.
* She never would hold a bottle by herself but will hold a sippy cup.
* The way she smiles so big her eyes disappear and all you see is teeth. It can truly light up a room.
* Her love for her sister is amazing to watch.
* She loves to be held.
* She loves to take naps in the morning and afternoon.
* She can clap, play peek-a-boo, say "Mama" and "DADA", and wave bye-bye.
* She gets her feelings hurt very easily.
* She loves her lovie and paci to sleep with.
* She loves baby dolls. She will drag them behind her as she crawls then stops and picks the doll up to give it "love".
* She prefers "people food" over baby food and will let you know about it.
* She hates to be left alone...she will crawl behind you crying the whole way. Often she is so upset that she does not watch were she is going and hits her head.
* She crawls very quickly.
* She loves to eat grapes and bananas.
* She hates to ride in the car for more than an hour and rarely falls asleep in the car.
* She crawls as quickly as she can at night when Daddy comes home to get to him. Afterwards she sits with her hands up until Daddy picks her up.
* She loves to go swimming. The water is one of her favorite places to be...especially when she can splash someone.
* She wears a size 18-24 month in clothes.
* She already follows Kaylee into her room and thinks she can play too.
* She adores her sister.
* We cannot believe this little angel has been with us for a year already. She has brought so much love and happiness to each of us.

I find myself wondering where the time has gone. Campbell's birthday really snuck up on me. I am really looking forward to seeing what the next year brings. We love you Campbell Grace!! HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY!!

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.