The Ford Family

I need a weekend to recover from...

2012-02-12T19:32:00.002-08:00

THIS WEEKEND! (and last week!!!)

Let me start with last week....can't remember which day, but one of 'em...

I ran to Target and picked up the kids Valentine's...It might be one of Mack's favorite things to do! ha! She rushed through her homework, made 10,oooo mistakes just to get to be able to do them! ; ) I checked her homework while she did her Valentines and asked her if she was even paying attention while she was multiplying...she said, "No, she was just so excited to do her Valentines!!" I let her finish them and then she made corrections! That girl, I tell you!

Davis, on the other hand, did a few and then needed to take a candy break. ha! I made him do all 15 and then he could break for CANDY!

Friday, I went to Mackenzie's school to help with her Valentines party...

and of course, one little girl said to Mack "Your mama always taking pics!" hehee! yep..that's me!

On Friday night, Mack went to the drop in and had her friend Laura Tyson to spend the night...I always get in trouble by Mackenzie because I want to call it the "lock in". "Mom....uggh...it's not the lockin, it the dropin!" It's from 6-8:45...so perfect time to catch dinner with friends...We met up with our friends Ginny and Paul at the bread pub..Yum!

Saturday...

I woke up at the crack and went shopping in Columbus with my mom....originally, she wanted to go to Atlanta, but when she got here to pick me up, she suggested just heading over to Columbus, since it is only 25 minutes ways vs 1hr and half! great idea. We hit some local cutsie shops and then had lunch at Cheddars. Oh.my.gosh. It was so good!

Saturday afternoon/night/Sunday morning...hehee!

We headed out to my friend Martha's hubby's hunting land....

It was a bit Chilly...but we made the best of it and sat in by the fire to keep warm! ha!

The kids had a blast...everyone had a friend...and it was the perfect combination.

We enjoyed a yummy dinner and lots of laughs and came home smelling like a campfire! ; )

I left my camera at home---I guess that's what happens when you come home from shopping out of town and literally hop in the car and go to the country!

And here we are...

Sunday...

This was my morning to teach Sunday school, so no sleeping in for us!

Up and at 'em...

After lunch at the Mexican restaurant...

Libby and John Thomas came over to play with Mack and Davis.

I literally laid up in the bed and tried to finish Hangover 2.

They rode scooters, jumped on the trampoline, rode the golf car, put make up on, played Wii, played like they were hunting...they played everything imaginable!

Steaks for dinner with the Gab and Levins...and a end to a weekend.

Can you see now, why I need a day to recover?!?!

Wouldn't change one thing though!!! : )

Donuts with Papa

2012-02-06T19:19:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, Davis had Doughnut with Daddy--Daddy had a class that he was unable to miss, so we had Papa join Davis for donuts and a devotion. Davis was very excited to have Papa come and join him...plus donuts always make Davis happy any ole' day! ; )

Davis is so blessed to have a daddy that loves him to the moon and back. He is such a blessing to our family. He works so hard to provide for us and when he comes home, his love is neverending. There are times that I know he is exhausted, but he hangs in there and stays up and enjoys his time with all of us! He loves to play with both of them. It is always fun & games when he is home. You can always find a wrestling/tickle match going on...a game of football...a game of Connect Four...or find him in the kitchen fixing us a yummy meal. We are truly blessed. I couldn't ask for a better husband and daddy. Thank you for all you do...We love you so much!

Thank you Papa for coming and spending the morning with Davis...He was one happy little boy to show you around his school. He surely loves you!

Hmmmm....

2012-02-06T11:47:00.000-08:00

Sometimes they tell you more than you want to know! ; )

This morning as we were getting ready for school Mack asked me..."Mama, why do I have to go to bed at 6:30?" Simple enough, right?? I then answer, "Well, you go to bed early so you don't wake up grouchy in the morning!" in my mind a great explanation and a true reason! Mack quickly responded, "Well, you should go to bed at 5!"

Ha! Really?? She just said I was a grouchy mama--guess I will strive to be a better mama or I will have to be in bed at 5! : )

So...you want a bowl of cereal?!??!

2012-02-04T14:09:00.000-08:00

I had to take this picture of Davis and the bowl of cereal he fixed himself...

Guess he didn't want to mess with a cereal bowl...found the largest bowl & filled in with cocoa puffs and a splash of milk! ; )

That's my boy--I could just kiss his face off!

Spring Fever

2012-02-02T13:28:00.000-08:00

On Monday after school, we played outside and enjoyed the sunshine and warm temps!

It was so nice and has many looking forward to SPRING! Davis and daddy played football & when Mack got home they decided to ride scooters! I love that my kids enjoy playing outside! :)

Although, Phil the groundhog saw his shadow this morning---

We are ready for Spring to be here!

I need another moment...

2012-01-30T11:54:00.000-08:00

to brag!

Oh my goodness, I am one proud mama. I can't tell you how happy I was to see Mack standing on the #1! Yep, she did it! She was beaming from ear to ear! She got All Around Champion at her meet this weekend in Birmingham!

I'm so very proud of this sweet girl! She never seizes to amaze me...when she puts her mind to something, she does her best to achieve her goal. She told me that she was going to win 1st and I told her if she did we would get the new American girl doll that is a gymnast. ( I thought that I wouldn't have to worry about making a trip to Atl) Guess what?? It looks like we will be heading to the American girl store in the near future. She was so proud of herself as she should be!

For the Records:

Fans: Mommy, Davis, & Aunt Dare

Bars: 2nd 8.550 (hardest judge ever--perfect bars routine!)

Beam: 2nd 9.550

Floor: 2nd 9.325

Vault: 3rd 9.400

1st: All around!!!!

Birmingham Al

1-28-2012

These are the days...

2012-01-25T19:38:00.000-08:00

when you think...

"I am doing something right."

~~Now, tomorrow might be another story!~~

Mack has the sweetest heart...she makes me proud to be her mommy.

Tonight, when I was looking over her things from church, I noticed in her prayer journal

this...

How sweet is that???

She is so excited about her Aunt Haha having a baby & not just any ole baby...

It's finally a girl cousin!

Mack had gotten really obsessive over the fear that she was going to be the only girl stuck with all these boys, but she has one to love...Anne Hughes we can't wait to love on you!

"And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive it, if you have faith."

Matthew 21:22

Just a good life lesson....

2012-01-24T20:45:00.000-08:00

Today was library day at school, combined with an afternoon play date, which called for extra snuggle time with my sweet lovie.

We snuggled and read his library book, which had the cutest little life lesson!

The name of his book this week is called Jungle Bullies and I just thought the thing they said throughout it was so cute and catchey! ; )

"Don't you tell me what to do, this spot's big enough for two. Share with with me as a friend, don' t be mean to mean again."

and at the end...

"Big or little, large or small, this pond's big enough for all. Bullies aren't even fair, it's a lot more fun to share!"

What a great lesson for us all...

I now have a sound asleep snuggle bug...I wish I could bottle up times like these!

Night friends!

They were yummy...but not "perrrttty"

2012-01-23T19:29:00.000-08:00

This afternoon, Davis and I tried my friend Angie's MIL Alice's cookie recipe...well, I had to call her at the end in fear that I was a complete failure! ha! We ate the crumbs off the pan of the 1st batch and they were yummy! :) I guess the best part of it all was my helper...

Sissy was in the kitchen, too...

She was just working on homework instead of baking,

but don't worry she was the first to do a taste test! ; )

Now, I'm just waiting on Angie to bake hers and tell me where I went wrong! ha!

Happy Monday!

OH MY!!!!

2012-01-18T12:40:00.000-08:00

These bacon cheese grits look.to.die.for.

I just found this recipe by Mrs. Patsy Riley on pinterest.

Click here to go to the recipe, let me know if you try them before I do..or just invite me

over for brunch! hehee! ; )

A gentle reminder...

2012-01-12T19:50:00.000-08:00

Tonight during bath time, I had to play referee. So, needless to say...after both kiddos were in their jammies we had a "little" talk. I sat them down & looked both of them in their big brown eyes and reminded them that we aren't promised tomorrow. You both need to love each other and stop all of this fighting. I told Mackenzie that on Friday when Davis and I were sitting in the carpool line waiting to pick her up he said, "Mama, I hope sissy is in a good mood and that when she gets in the car & she says, Hey big boy!" & that he adores her. We have talked in our household about the wreck I mentioned in a previous post a lot...it has weighed heavy on my heart. I have also bribed Mackenzie with a trip to NYC for her 16th birthday verses a car. Right now, she's so excited about our trip. ; ) I'm sure that will change. It scares me to death--and it has made me think twice about the short 8 years to come...Will I be ready to set her free?? Will I let her be able to drive away on her own for the very 1st time? I reminded them that Libbie (the girl that passed away) had a little brother too and I'm sure that he wishes that he could hug his sister again! I also, reminded them that it makes me and daddy sad when they fight and it disappoints God, which is when Davis burst into tears.

Tonight, I pray that they take to heart our "little" talk and try to remember it throughout each day. I know I will have to do a reminder talk sooner I'm sure than later! ; )

"This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you."

John 15:12

Trip planning...

2012-01-10T11:50:00.000-08:00

This past Friday night, my friend Amanda and her boys came to town. We are going to Disney together in March, so we hoped to get some things planned. It's always fun catching up, so I think we did more of that than actually planning! ; ) The kiddos always have fun together and we realized at 9:26 when everyone was melting that it was going to be a long night at the Magic Kingdom. Who knows if we will ever make it till 2am??! ha!

In my mind, I thought these 2 would enjoy each other so much on our trip...but Mason enjoys Mackenzie...and Davis enjoys Braxton! ; ) They all get along great, but I think if Mason and Davis got to choose Mason would pick Mack over Davis anyday! Mason has a good eye--she's a cutie pie! ; )

We also taught Mason a thing or two about football...like their are choices...and orange and blue look great on him! ; ) hehee! I know his daddy would have no part in them wearing orange and blue, but he sported it while he was at our house...

Looking forward to our trip with these 4...I know it's going to be lots of fun and I can hardly wait!

Any Disney tips or suggestions are welcome!

Lately....

2012-01-05T10:37:00.000-08:00

The past few days, we have enjoyed time at home being lazy.

I don't think that we left the house for 2 days straight. It was nice...and much needed.

We have spent many days by the fire...

I do love a fire...but I am ready for some warmer temps! It has been too rainy and cold over the holiday break!

We have spent many evenings snugglin' and watchin' movies...

and I think Ella has definitely become part of the fam! The kids adore her.

The past few days...my heart has been heavy for 2 complete strangers, but they were part of the AU family. They were involved in a car wreck and Libbie passed away due to brain trauma.

This brought back so many memories from when Dare was in the hospital. The days were long...emotional...and unknown as far as what the future held. So, when I heard about this my heart just broke for this family...I probably felt the same emotions they went through at the hospital. I wanted to go there and tell them to be strong and give it time. Time is what healed Dare. There were numerous occasions we were told there was no hope...and we were breathing on hope alone.

My prayers are with this family & her boyfriend who is dealing with many emotions and will continue to deal with...may God wrap his arms around them and comfort them in the days to come.

Today....

It's sunny and warming up...

Mack started school back--Boo! :(

& Davis and Banks have been out scootin'!!!

"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand." (Jesus speaking)

John 10:27-29

Blessings from 2011 & Happy 2012!

2012-01-01T12:59:00.000-08:00

Looking back at 2011 in pictures...

Rolling Toomers Corner after BCS National Championship! War Eagle!

Enjoyed going to the National Championship Celebration with Reese...

Both Mackenzie and Davis learned to ride their bikes the same day! :)

A trip to the park with mommy and daddy...

Davis worked on his tumbling skills and Mackenzie joined the team with gymastics! Mackenzie has had a great 1st year of meets and we are so proud of her!

Still a momma's boy and I hope as years pass he will always be! ; )

Our Easter picture grew from 3 to 5 and it was a hard attempt at getting one!

After many years of hard work and determination, we watched Dare graduate from AUM!

(or some of us did...Davis slept! ha!)

God has blessed us with some great friends...

that walk beside us each and every day...

and make us happier that we ever thought we could be!

He heard our prayers and filled our hearts with lots of JOY!

2011 was a wonderful year filled with lots of happy memories!

Happy New Year from our house to yours!

"O satisfy us with your mercy and loving kindness in the morning, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days."

Psalm 90:14

Christmas Day

2011-12-29T07:04:00.000-08:00

By the look of my picture, we must have been picture--d out. For some reason, I didn't take near the pics I usually take.

It looks at though Haha is struggling to wake in this pic, my kids not so much! They were EXCITED!

Ella joined in on the festivities...

The kids then opened their gift from us...

Anne got her 1st smocked day gown and some beauty bars from Mimi...

It was indeed Merry! Merry!

Heaven is for Real

2011-12-28T13:56:00.000-08:00

When you look into the face of your little one,

what is it you see looking back at you? For most the answer is simple--a miracle!

The love we give to and get back from a child is simply awesome. Nothing in our lives gives us the comfort and joy that a child can bring. But more than any other thing of value in our lives, the children God had give us need special care.

Children need someone to feed and watch over them, someone to pick them up when they fall, someone to run to when they are scared, someone to teach them about life as they grow up.

Above all else, children need someone to teach them about Jesus and His importance for this life and the life to come.

--Heaven is for Real--

Part Two...

2011-12-28T13:18:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, we celebrated Christmas with the Ford fam. It never disappoints. We had more yummy food and the kids opened lots of gifts! Thanks Memaw & Papa for everything!

Mackenzie and Davis are so blessed & loved!

I'm not sure what really is the truth....BUT Davis told Memaw thanks and that Mackenzie told him she was getting him the lifesaver. She was quick to deny! So, who knows?!?! ; )

Mack was really excited about her new Dauphin Tale Barbie! You can never go wrong giving this sweet girl a new barbie!

Christmas Eve we went to our chruch Candlelight Service. We were proud to watch our little acolyte light the candles in celebration of our Savior. Also, our family was asked to light the advent wreath candles and recite some scripture. Each of us said a few things, including Davis. Mackenzie was great..she said the opening and ending saying a prayer. She was very composed and did not act nervous one bit. Daddy lit all the candles for us. What a special evening with my little family.

As always, the service was very moving and had me in tears at many times. Watching my baby walk down the isle...then lighting the candles, while singing Joy to the World = Tears. Tears. Tears. Oh Holy Night, being sung is a given. More tears. I feel so blessed to be a mother to these two. I can't imagine the emotions Mary must have felt!!

After church, we came home to eat some munchies and decorate cookies for Santa.

We always have to feed our reindeer some yummy food...

We kept hearing this soaring noise that we thought might be Santa, so we rushed to feed the reindeer just in case he was near. Davis was getting real frustrated with Mackenzie, because she was spreading her food throughout the yard and he wanted her to hurry in fear Santa might be near!

We said our goodbyes to Sabrina and Leon, who entertained us throughout December...

and off to bed they went....

part 3 coming! ; )

Happiest time of the year...Part one...

2011-12-27T07:57:00.000-08:00

~~and busiest...~~

Christmas was great at our house.

We started off the weekend with the Justice fam at our house for a little Christmas cheer. Believe me, it's full of laughs and gets really loud! or atleast that is what we are told! ; )

We had lots of yummy food.

and we feel blessed that Granny was able to prepare her "famous" caramel cake! It something that I think we could all fight over! ; ) Aunt Reese, we giggled and wondered if you were really taking that cake back for Ken?!? hehee!

She's one special lady and I'm one lucky girl to have been blessed with such a great grandmother!

Gift opening time always makes the kiddos all SMILES!

Thanks Justice fam for making the trip! When we all come together it may be a little like the Griswalls' but it's always fun!!! :)

Later that night, the kids got to flip a coin to see who could open a present. Of course, it was all fun and games..they were both going to get a gift! But not without seeing the reaction of the looser, which was Mack. She was mad. hehee!

Davis opened his present, which was a Wii game he had been wanting & Mack turned around to meet the newest member of our family...

She had been asking for a hamster, but after many trips to Petco...we realized that a guinnea pig was a much better fit for a 8 & 5 year old. After all, Mack wanted to dress her hamster and they BITE!

Meet Ella.

or now Ella Wynne Ford.

She didn't have a middle name until Aunt Heather met Ella. You see that is Aunt Heather's middle name...and there might have been a little persuasion! ha! She's one sweet 'pig and although I was 100% convinced that I would be smitten, I am! ; )

More to come...

Christmas Wrap...

2011-12-26T19:17:00.000-08:00

Coming Soon!

Ours was filled with lots of memories with family and friends! Hope yours was, too! ;)

Blessed.beyond.words.

From our family to yours...

2011-12-24T19:13:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!!!

"The Lord has done great things for us and we are filled with joy."

Psalm 126:3

The things I never want to forget...

2011-12-21T20:45:00.000-08:00

Tonight, Bubba and I were in the kitchen and I overheard Davis talking...

This is what I heard him discussing with Leon his elf...

Tomorrow when I am at Banks' house, I want you to write on this table...

"I love you Davis! You are the best human!"

I love seeing the magic of Christmas through the eyes of my children!

Party and a Break...

2011-12-20T20:34:00.000-08:00

The last day of school until January! I'm so excited, starting tomorrow we are going to practice sleeping late again! ; ) Can't wait.

Davis had his preschool party...I'm ~~sure~~ hoping he ate some chicken nuggets, but all I have him pictured eating is his favorite...Cookies!

Then we headed to Mackenzie's school for her Christmas party!

Excited about the days to come...

Can't wait to spend time with family and celebrate the birth of our Savior!

"For unto us a child is born..."

Isaiah 9:6

What I think would be cool...

2011-12-20T05:38:00.000-08:00

What I think would be cool to get in my stocking is a little bitty hamster. I like animlas, and they're fun to play with. I can go to Petco and get a bigger cage and feed and things to go in the cage. I would put the hamster in my room. I might even get clothes for it.

-Mackenzie '11

Last day of school...party on!

Saturday Night Snuggle Time...

2011-12-19T11:49:00.000-08:00

Saturday night, Amy and Jarrod had a Sunday School Christmas party and asked if I would watch the boys...I was happy to abide! Mackenzie and Davis adore their cousins, so they enjoyed spending the evening with them! I rented the Smurfs and they all watched tid bits of it in Davis' bed! We went to the movies to see the Smurfs so my two were excited to watch it again, Will enjoyed bits and pieces before he was sound asleep, and Jack was in & out and then snuggled up with his Shea~Shea and was sound asleep, too! It was a easy night...all kiddos sound asleep by the time Jarrod and Amy returned at 9!

Maybe I should go for 4?? Hahahahahh! Just kidding!

Davis is the caboose! ; )

This Christmas...

2011-12-18T10:45:00.000-08:00

Just Give a little Jesus!

During childrens time at church this morning, Davis received this poem and I thought

it was too good not to share:

Just give a little Jesus, a thoughtful word or deed,

An act of generosity for someone who's in need,

Just give a little Jesus to everyone you meet,

A salesclerk, or a server, or the person on the street.

Just give a little Jesus, 'cause that what really counts,

Not what's spent or bought for whom, or in what amounts,

Just give a little Jesus to everyone, large, and small,

For Jesus the Messiah is the GREATEST GIFT Of ALL!

Lisa O. Engelhart

Poem Recitation

2011-12-17T08:11:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, we were invited to Mack's class to hear their poem recitation. A few weeks ago, Mack was given a poem to memorize and she did just that! Yesterday, I listened to her recite it so bravely in front of a classroom of parents and peers. She did great & did not stumble one bit!

"Before Christmas" was the name of her poem. She would get tickled every time I would say go get your poooem so we can practice. "Mom, it's not poooem it poam..." ; ) Pacans..peecans...it's all the same, Right??!

and then they did a group poem called..."Can you Guess?"

Laura Tyson, Anadia, Mack, and Abbie

Daddy played photographer for me and I recorded!

The Life Cycle...

2011-12-14T19:46:00.000-08:00

Tonight, I joined all these cute kiddos caroling at two of the nursing homes in town. I wasn't prepared.at.all. Between singing silent night with my 2 babies and seeing little ole' people I was brought to tears!!! I thought as I stood there...I might have to leave the room and get my composure. I am falling to pieces..get it together Shea! At one point, a lady in her 90's wanted to play the piano while we sang...she started playing and it didn't sound like anything I recognized..we waited patiently and a few minutes later..the tune of silent night came..she remembered most of it..and more tears filled my eyes.

Oh my..the life cycle. I watched as some were fed by spoon as we sang, some I don't think even knew we were there, some that tapped along & there was one little ole' lady who said "sing another!"

It was touching being there & I hope that we were able to give each of them a little Christmas cheer!

"Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth, make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise."

Psalm 98:4

Snug as a bug in a rug...

2011-12-14T06:29:00.000-08:00

This is where we found Sabrina & Leon this morning...

Sleeping in our bed!

You see, on nights that Daddy works, I sleep with Davis! So, I think two little mischievious elves found themselves a comfy place to rest! They needed it..they have been BUSY!

Between sleeping so good & Davis turning the volume down on my phone while playing angry birds at gym last night....

We overslept this morning!

Really overslept!

I woke up hearing the doorbell ring, rubbing my eyes & wondering "did I just hear the doorbell or am I a dreaming??" One quick glance at my phone reading 7:30 and I knew I was NOT dreaming!

A quick apology to Mrs. Christie who is so sweet & kind to take Mack to school every morning, we began running around like chickens with our heads cut off!

But,

we made it on.time.

Saturday Family Night Fun!

2011-12-11T21:13:00.000-08:00

Mackenzie and I ran to the store and picked up all the things we needed to make a gingerbread house!!

She really enjoys one on one time and loved helping pick out what we needed!

While we were at the store, Daddy and Davis were constructing our house.

Then we were ready to ice it...

Not without a few licks of icing from you know who...

We all helped decorate the outside...even Daddy was into the project.

He made perfect wreaths on the windows...

and in the end...

we were all proud of our litte gingerbread house!

This afternoon after church, Mackenzie wanted to make pretzel rods dipped in chocolate and then topped with sprinkles. We worked on this project at her Ano's house (Aunt Amy)...needless to say...

they might be seeing sprinkles for months to come! ; )

Tis the Season!

A Sweet Surprise!

2011-12-10T11:33:00.000-08:00

This morning, Davis and Mackenzie woke up to a sweet surprise for breakfast! Sabrina and Leon had a special breakfast fixed up for them...Powdered donuts and Donut holes! yummmy!

Davis must have sniffed them out, because he was up early and then woke everyone up in excitement!

He then proceeded to tell us that they were yummy. So, I would assume he had a few taste tests before he woke us up! ; ) That sugar loving boy!

Happy Saturday!

Excuse me while I brag...

2011-12-05T18:38:00.000-08:00

Best. Meet. Yet.

She totally rocked her State meet this past Friday night.

I'm so very proud of her! She has worked so hard to get to where she is today!

Her hardest event by far is bars...she proved that it wasn't that hard the other night, when she scored her best score yet on bars! Her smile afterwards was better than watching the score pop up!

She was BEAMING and so EXCITED!

I am so proud of you sweet girl!

I love you,

Mommy : )

Breakfast with Santa

2011-12-03T16:24:00.000-08:00

I could have slept in this morning, but instead I crawled out of bed and we all got dressed to go eat breakfast with Santa at church! We woke up to find Sabrina and Leon had made their way to our house to spend the holidays! Both kiddos were excited to see that their elves had arrived!

Santa read the Christmas story to all the kids...

Davis hopped up in Santa's lap and they talked it seemed forever...

until he came walking up to me with this devistated look on his face....

I quickly asked him what was wrong and he told me he never told Santa what was on his list!

So, I suggested he get back in line, so that's what he did! The 2nd time around, I think Santa knows exactly what he wants! ; )

Mackenzie and Laura Tyson wanted to discuss their things together with Santa!

After we had our bellies filled with pancakes & sausage...

had multiple conversations with the big man in red,

we were in search for the perfect Christmas tree!

A fun filled Saturday!

We're making a list....

2011-12-01T20:19:00.000-08:00

Checking it twice....

gonna find out who's Naughty or Nice...

Santa Claus is Coming to town!!!!

He's got a BIG ole' heart, but

he's not fond of getting 3 gifts like Baby Jesus!

So...he wrote down 4 things! Rebel...I know! ; )

Christmas Parade...

2011-12-01T05:49:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, we bundled up and headed down to watch the Christmas Parade. It's been a few years since we have been able to go to the parade, because of Mack having gymnastics on Wednesdays! This year we made it, because next year...who knows where we will be or what we will be doing! :)

Davis didn't even know what the parade was, because he said he didn't want to go. He quickly realized it was a place for him when we got there & he was seeing some of his buddies! Ever since Mack was a tot, she has watched the parade with the twins...this year, we didn't break tradition. As always, they squeal, giggle, & run and give each other big hugs as if they haven't seen each other in years! ha!

All sweet friends...Anna Claire, Bailey, Mack, & Blair

Davis not pictured...he was still mad about going to the parade! ; )

All smiles....

Davis and his buddy, Payton

Davis lit up when he saw Spiderman!!!!

Next up...

State Gym Meet tomorrow evening for Mack!!!!

Kicking off the Advent Season....

2011-11-29T05:44:00.000-08:00

Or...

Kicking off the busiest time of year! ; )

Sunday night, Mackenzie had her "Hark" production. She had a speaking part and remembered her lines & did great. Davis and I learned most of the songs while traveling back & forth to the beach & they had both of us singing along.

Afterwards, we had the Advent Festival, where we had soup & sandwiches & the kids make super cute crafts!!!

Cookie Mix, Reindeer Bottlecap Magnets, Pinecone Ornaments, and Much More....

Here's hoping to getting one sign of Christmas going on in our home...

I know I say this all the time,

or is it just me??

The Christmas season always sneaks up on me! Always.

I give THANKS....

2011-11-27T11:15:00.000-08:00

Last Tuesday, Davis had his preschool Thanksgiving program. It was great as usual. All the kids did a great job, especially this little pilgrim!

He was asked to be the pilgrim in one of their songs & he was the cutest little pilgrim I have ever seen! ; )

It's so hard to believe that this will be the last preschool Thanksgiving programs that one of my babies will be in...I give THANKS to all the special teachers that have touched each of my babies hearts over the past few years! I give THANKS that I have been blessed with the opportunity to share their preschool years with them, as I have always been just a few steps away. I love that I can make sneak peaks & get hugs and kisses through out the day!

Thanks to Him for his many blessings.

Hope each of you had a blessed Thanksgiving!

Thankful and Blessed...

2011-11-25T15:49:00.000-08:00

"Give thanks to the Lord for He is good. His love endures forever."

Psalm 107:1

So I never forget...

2011-11-20T18:39:00.000-08:00

Last night, we were so tired that we forgot all about putting Mack's 2 teeth under her pillow..so tonight, we are all prepared for a visit for the tooth fairy!

Mack was putting both teeth in her tooth fairy pillow when Davis asked her, "Kenzie, can I borrow one of your teeth so I can get some money??"

ha!

Love them both to pieces!

Mackenzie's 3rd Gymnastics Meet

2011-11-19T18:49:00.000-08:00

Mackenzie had her 3rd gymnastic meet bright & early this morning. Last night, we went to spend the night with Uncle Dave, Aunt Heather, & Dawson, so we wouldn't have to get up quiet so early. We woke up at 6 to start the morning...Mack lost a tooth while brushing her teeth. She was still half asleep and had no clue that she even did, until her daddy found it on the bathroom floor! ha! ; ) She had one other one dangling, so her daddy went ahead and pulled it this morning, too! Two teeth and a gymnastic meet all in one day before lunch! Busy morning!

Mack and some of her gym buddies...

Peyton, Brooke, Kailee, Catherine (top)

Susie, Brooke, Kenzie, and Jayden (bottom)

Level 3 AGA girls Win!!!

Just for the books:

2nd on Floor

3rd on Beam

Meet Location: Armory, Montgomery

Fans: Mommy, Daddy, Davis, Mimi, & Mr. Jim

Kenzie,

Another great meet! We are so very proud of you & are looking forward to cheering you on at State in 2 weeks!

Love,

Mommy

Happy Friday!

2011-11-18T06:06:00.001-08:00

November 12th...

2011-11-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

Saturdays in the South!

Football...Game day!

War Eagle!!

November 11th...

2011-11-11T13:30:00.000-08:00

Thankful for the men that serve our country.

This is my sweet friend Britney's family.

Their daddy is overseas.

I can't imagine the emotions that they are going through, I think and pray for them often.

November 9th & 10th...can't keep up!

2011-11-11T05:52:00.000-08:00

Very thankful for...

This sweet boy!!!

Thankful for his contagious smile & his loving heart.

November 8th...

2011-11-09T18:01:00.000-08:00

Thankful for...

Anne Hughes Gardiner

I am so excited for that little peanut growing in her mommy's tummy and I can't wait to kiss her sweet face!

Oh, sweet baby Anne....

we can't wait to meet you, we pray for you daily, & love you so much already!

November 7th...

2011-11-08T12:48:00.000-08:00

Thankful for Cousin Willard...

To say that Mackenzie & Davis adore him might be an understatement.

They love him with all of their heart & it's pretty neat that he's just around the corner!

We love you, Willard!

November 6th...

2011-11-06T17:47:00.000-08:00

One FULL week of smiles from this little sassy britches!

And for that... she was rewarded on Friday with an afternoon playdate! ; )

The week before was a sassy britches week...and I didn't know if she or I would survive it,

but I'm glad we both did, because this week made up for it!

I love her...oh, how I love her! She keeps me on my toes!

November 5th...

2011-11-06T06:22:00.000-08:00

Thankful that these two were able to share a special morning together.

On Friday, Mack had Doughnuts with Dad at her school.

She was super excited about taking her daddy to this event.

I am so blessed to have him. He is the best daddy & husband!

November 4th...

2011-11-04T14:59:00.000-07:00

Today, I am thankful for Maggie! Who would have thought??

You see, we have a love-hate relationship.

One minute, I love her. She makes me laugh, because she is so goofy. Like today, when I walked outside and found her resting on the back of the golf cart. What dog does that?? Hello...there is a yard full of grass, but No...she prefers the golf cart! whatever.

And there are the days when she doesn't make me laugh. These are the days when I go find the largest hole you could ever dig in my yard. Yep, one that you could burry a small child in.

Oh...that dog. just thankful for days like today when I walk out to find her
resting vs diggin'!

November 3rd....

2011-11-02T20:15:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for every.single.person. in this picture.

We share something special.

We depend on one another & get each other through the good times & the bad.

It's the true definition of "family."

November 2nd...

2011-11-02T13:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I woke up with a cold & today is not any better.

So today, I am thankful for...

The hubby thinks it doesn't work, but for me...

it makes me sleep like a baby at night & sometimes a good nights rest is all you need

to make it through the next sneezing day! ; )

November 1st

2011-11-01T19:44:00.000-07:00

To start the season of Thanks...I think it's only fitting that I start the month off thanking Him for ...

Dawson Edward Sellers

Thankful that last October 29th, we welcomed this bundle of joy into the world.

We prayed and trusted that in His time He would give us this miracle to love!

This past Sunday I was able to be there to celebrate one whole year of his life.

A year of blessings. A year of joy.

A year of loving a true miracle of God.

He's one special little boy!

The way he does his little feet is just one of the many reasons I love this little fella!

TrIcK oR TrEaT!

2011-10-31T19:13:00.000-07:00

Our Cute Cute Witch!!!!

And Our Little Aubie....

and lots of fun trick or treating in the 'hood with cousins & friends...

HaPpY HaPpY!

Brrrrrr....

2011-10-29T19:37:00.000-07:00

It was a cold day tailgating on the plains....

but not to everyone!!! ; )

This guy walked passed our tailgate & posed with some for pics! Hilarious & Gross!

I'll leave ya with something "normal"...

War Eagle & Happy Saturday!

Pumpkin Patch Field Trip

2011-10-27T19:52:00.000-07:00

This is my one & only picture!

Right after I snapped this picture, my shoulder attachment for the past 4 years quit!

I was one.devasted.mama.

I have such sweet friends that took pictures and one that let me borrow her camera!

After a trip to the camera shop this afternoon to find out that my camera was going to have to be shipped back to Nikon with a hefty repair price tag...we upgraded.

Now...

If I could only learn how to use the bad boy! ; )

So, bare with me if my pictures seem a little fuzzy!

More pumpkin patch pics to come soon...I hope!

A Gymnast and a Secret Agent

2011-10-23T19:22:00.000-07:00

On Friday, we headed to Birmingham to Mack's 2nd gymnastic meet. MeMaw, Aunt Heather, & Dawson joined us and helped cheer on our little gymnast! Mack did great and improved on every event with her scores! I am so proud of her, she never seizes to amaze me! She's one special little girl!

I love the fact that all these girls are such sweet friends, they might go to different schools, live in different towns, be different ages BUT on Tuesday & Thursday nights they are all little gymast friends that work hard each week together!

Yay Level 3 Girls!

Week after week, Davis is there.

He sits and/or plays at gymnastics while Mack practices 3 hrs 2 nights a week.

He's a trooper & one of her biggest fans!

That's one sweet lil' brother!

I enjoyed catching up with 3 dear friends....we filled up 2 booths at Johnny Rockets and had a yummy dinner over great conversation. I love that no matter what we always pick up right where we left off! Thanks Leslee, Kay, & Michael! :)

On Saturday, Davis had back to back birthday parties. I teamed up with Davis' friend, Banks' mom and we split the duty of the parties. I handled the 1st party where we helped Jake celebrate his 6th birthday! He has one creative mama and she always puts on the best parties.

This year, it was a secret agent party & they all looked to have had a blast!

Jake is such a special buddy to Davis & we were so glad that we were able to help him celebrate his big day!

3 cute secret agents, if I say so myself!

Happy Birthday Jack-a-roo!

2011-10-20T20:09:00.000-07:00

Birthday post...better late than never! ; )

A few weeks ago, we helped celebrate Jack's 1st birthday!

It was fun, as always, when we are surrounded by family!!

I will let the pictures do the rest of the talkin'....

Sweet cousins...Davis & Dawson

Davis was about to DIE waiting on getting into the cupcakes! Sweet boy loves his suga'! He sat in the dining room & stared at them forever!

The birthday boy sure loved his cake!

Happy Birthday Jackie!

We sure love you and your contagious smile!

Love, Shea-Shea, Uncle Bubba, Sissy, & Davis

Pinterest Test Kitchen

2011-10-19T08:36:00.000-07:00

Just tried another Pinterst (my new addiction) recipe.

Can you say Yummmy???

It was great & now going to be a new staple recipe at our house & actually, it was even better the next day, as most casseroles are.

Cheesy Chicken Lasagna

Recipe can be found here.

Weagle! Weagle!

2011-10-17T12:42:00.000-07:00

It's was a beautiful day on the plains...

a fun afternoon tailgating and a evening celebrating

a Gator Chomp!

We wished we could have been in Atlanta on Sunday to cheer on Cam, but I had to teach Sunday School and it would have been just too much, considering we were up so late on Saturday night! Davis enjoyed posing infront of his pictures! We still love Cam at our house!

War Eagle, Hey!

Violin

2011-10-12T06:13:00.000-07:00

and so you ask...

Do we have a new hobby??

well, at least that is what my sister, aka..HaHa...asked!

I sent her a snip of Mack's violin performance via text message & she was quick to ask basically, when did she start taking violin and then a sigh of relief and I didn't think it was possible for y'all to do one more thing!! And she is correct, we can't possibly do.one.more.thing.

Mack has taken up violin through music at school for the past 6 weeks & yesterday, they did their littler performance to Mary had a little lamb and also shared all the knowledge on Mozart.

Her music teacher started by playing some Mozart on a cd, not VIOLIN..and I quickly thought Mack has probably gone off into lala land listening to that this past 6 weeks, because for the first 2-3 years of her life she listened to classical music every night during bedtime. This just might be why she is so particular about her bedtime rituals...pitch black dark (even the little light on the tv must go) and fan on high because she enjoys the sound. No music though, I probably scared her for life. ; )

She never seizes to amaze me. She was so serious when I was in there. She didn't want me to take her picture. (I'm not sure why, maybe embarrassed because I am always like the paparazzi) She always puts on a game face when she is about to perform. She did great!

She's our little gymnast, pianist, & now....

VIOLINIST!

Fall Festival

2011-10-11T12:49:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again...

Pumpkins, mums, cooler weather,

..and Fall festivals...

Mack loves our Church Fall festival.

It is probably her favorite event or maybe she just loves Fall like her mama! ; )

This past Sunday, it was a bit rainy and dreary, but nothing was stopping our fall festival.

Bingo, jumping castle, horse rides, cake walks, food and fellowship.

This year, we left soaking wet (well, the kids did!) loaded down with 2 dz cookies & the bingo prize of Mack's choice 4 Mrs Story's hotdogs and milkshakes!

I do heart Fall and all the festivities.

Happy Happy Fall!

There are no words...

2011-10-05T05:57:00.000-07:00

to describe how great a teacher that Mrs. Patton (Mack's 2nd grade teacher) is...

Not only is she a great teacher, but she is a great person.

I can't describe how I felt reading a insert that she had taken out of the church bulletin from Acolyte dedication & doctored up with words to make my little girl feel special. Indeed, she DID! Mackenzie just giggled & smiled. After a little homework, she came back to reread the insert and it had the same effect on her.

That's was teaching is all about...

Here is what she wrote:

"Look at you!

What a great service to the Lord. I am so proud of you! I miss seeing your sweet smiling face and joyful spirit in my classroom this year. I hope you are enjoying Northside...We sure do miss you here. Keep letting Jesus shine through you every day. Proud of you lil lady!!!!

Love you Mac Attack!

Mrs. Patton

P.S. Better watch out, I might try to blow your acolyte candle out when you pass my pew! :) "

Rainy Wednesday

2011-09-28T10:58:00.000-07:00

Lazy...Lazy...Day!

It was one of those weeks...

2011-09-26T19:40:00.000-07:00

I know you have said that 100 times, too. As one of Mackenzie's vocab words last week..we survived. Lately, I feel like we just run in circle throughout the week..from here to there and from there to here.

Mack suggested on the way home that we might should just live in a camper, because we were never really home. The last few weeks have been busy & somewhat stressful. I have been working hard with Mackenzie on homework & studying. 3rd grade has been hard. REAL hard. I have been worrying about Mackenzie struggling as a student this year...she's made a few grades that we have yet to see from her. It was hard & frustrating. I met with her teacher last Wednesday am to express my concern and try to get some answers...

She assured me Mackenzie was fine and that it will eventually just click.

She showed me her grades and those few shocker grades didn't effect her all A's that we are hoping for!

I left there with a few answers and felt a little better. I enjoyed my afternoon with just her...try not to focus so much on school and enjoy her. Davis was enjoying a afternoon at his friend Banks' house, so it gave me the opportunity to spend some quality time with her since the last few days had been stressful.

On our way home from gymnastics Tuesday night...it was raining cats & dogs. As we were pulling out of the parking lot at gymnastics, I reminded Mackenzie to dial Ano's # and wish her a happy birthday, she & Davis both spoke to her & I opted to keep my eyes & hands on the wheel. After they hung up with her, I asked them to be really quiet so I could concentrate on our way home. It was raining so hard and the roads were flooded. As we were about 5 minutes from home, I asked Mackenzie did Ano have a good birthday?? (that was the 1st bit of conversation since we got off campus) and she replied yes, she said they went to Outback...and all of a sudden...

my car was no longer in my control..

I have hydroplaned before, so I knew what could or may happen.

We spun around 4 times...both kiddos were screaming & I just sat still & prayed.

Dear God..please make it stop. Please make it stop.

All I could do was just sit and wait for the unknown.

Finally what felt like minutes...we did...STOP!

I calmly told both kiddos...

we are okay.

Stop screaming and let's get home. I didn't know at the moment if I could even drive my car...it sounded as we were spinning there might be damage..so I pulled across the road to a little side road, got out in the rain and checked my car. it looked fine as far as I could see. Mack & Davis were both still crying. Mack then asked if she could pray all the way home...What an awesome thing to know that my little girl knew He provided our safety. He made it stop.

As I run around...from place to place...helping with homework & studying...worrying...stressed...

I want to stop.

I want to stop and remember what is most important.

Cherish each day with my family.

Fall on my knees and thank Him for protecting & providing for us,

because He is our every need.

Cooking with Daddy

2011-09-26T19:08:00.000-07:00

There is definitely something special between my two loves and their daddy!

They literally worship the ground he walks on and that makes me so happy...They squeal when we come down our street & see his car home! I remember being so excited when my daddy would be driving up our dirt road, too! They think he hung the moon...Davis literally is a clone of his daddy when we are watching a sports game. Just the other day, Davis was rewatching the Clemson game & playing football in the den & I heard him say..."You've got to be kidding me!" (So something his daddy would say while watching AU football) & it just made my heart full knowing that he wants to be like his daddy!

Last night, we grilled bbq chicken , squash & zucchini. They both wanted to help their daddy cut the veggies, too! We also had crack potatoes...have you ever???! I know, right? I got the recipe off of pinterest! They.were.delish.!!

Recipe for Crack Potatoes:

1 lg bag of shredded hash browns

2 (16 oz) sourcream ( I used Fat Free)

2 Pkgs of Hidden Valley Ranch Dip Mix (dry packet)

2 Pkgs of Real Bacon Pieces

2 Cups of Shredded Cheese

1 Stick Melted butter

Mix bottom 6 ingredients together and then mix in shredded hashbrowns.

Bake @ 400 degrees for 40-50 minutes.

"He will turn the hearts of fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers..."

Malachi 4:6

First!!!!

2011-09-19T20:03:00.000-07:00

Well, as your kids get older "first" are not as often as when they were babies.

So, first now days around here are a lot like this morning....

A first to make up HIS bed all by himself!!!

Mackenzie always (well, I say always, some days I have to do it because we are running late, but most days she does) makes her bed in the morning before school. It's a rule around here. And YES, I do get that question some mornings like "Why do I have to make my bed when I am going to get back in it tonight??", but guess what...

it makes this mama feel a little more sane to have ~~everything ~~ as much as possible tidy before leaving the house in the morning. Some mornings it just doesn't happen, but we do our best!

So...back to the point...I was going to make Davis' bed this morning and he said he wanted to do it...

and well, he did it. All by himself might I add. It's the beginning..where I just smile and bear the crookedness of it all, because he did it and he is so proud! (and so am I!!!)

Fluffing it just right....

Putting all the pillows in their place...

So proud of the finished product!!!!

So...here's to firsts at our house!!

First Meet

2011-09-18T17:06:00.000-07:00

And I think you can tell by that pretty face above that she had a BLAST!!

She had plenty of cheerleaders there to cheer her on!

Thanks to each of you that came to see Mackenzie during her 1st meet. She talked about it all the way home, so I know it meant a lot to her! :) She surely is a loved little girl & for that I am so thankful!!!

Dear Mackenzie,

I can never tell you enough how proud of the little girl that you have grown up to be!

This past weekend you brought tears to my eyes watching you perform your first floor routine. You had my heart beating so fast...I think I felt that same nerves that Mimi felt when I showed in a horseshow! :)

You have worked so hard for this and I can't wait to continue to watch you grow stronger!

Seeing you smile makes it worth the 6 hours a week I spend watching your practice each week!

I love you to the moon & back sweet girl!!!

Love, Mommy

Tickled PINK!!!

2011-09-12T20:10:00.000-07:00

Today, HaHa & Matt found out that It's a GIRL!!!

We couldn't be happier to have a new healthy cousin to love. Mackenzie has hoped and prayed for a little girl cousin and after 3 little boys, I do believe she was giving up hope. What a PINK surprise!!!

Today, when we got home from Mack's piano lesson there were pink balloons sitting on the counter from HaHa and Matt to share the news.

Mack was so excited & Davis was eyeing the candy the whole time so he got a little emotional because he thought that he had just lost out on a bag of candy. Just another day at the Ford house! ; )

Can't wait till baby girl has a name....

Remembering.

2011-09-11T09:50:00.000-07:00

10 years ago.

We will never forget.

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:37-39

War Eagle, Baby!

2011-09-09T14:02:00.000-07:00

Excited about cheering on the AU Tigers tomorrow!!

Tennis Buddies

2011-09-06T12:15:00.000-07:00

3 out of 4!

Banks, Davis, Sara Kate, & Claire (she wouldn't join in the picture) had a great 1st lesson last week!!

Great teacher & Great friends = Perfect. Tennis. Lesson!

Can't wait for our next lesson tomorrow!

Do you REMEMBER???

2011-09-04T19:56:00.000-07:00

OH MY! This makes me SMILE!

I had one of these and thought I was SOOO cool! ; )

I am in LOVE with Pinterest and found this on a friend's board and it brought me back to my days of swatch watches, tight rolled Guess jeans, etc..etc..!

A new Adventure...

2011-08-30T05:44:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, Davis will start tennis lessons with a few of his buddies.

He is SUPER excited!!!

Our days seem to be full, very full...but no day is too full when both of my kids are doing things they love.

It seems the only day of the week that we could possibly sit on the couch and relax would be on Friday, but there always seems to be something that day, too...

Our week looks a little something like this...

Mondays...piano

Tuesdays...gymnastics (3 HOURS WORTH!)

Wednesdays... Tennis in the am now & Church

Thursdays...repeat of Tuesday night!

and then there is the weekend that goes by so fast, I feel like I am starting another week over in a blink of an eye!

(This picture is from our summer beach trip, pictures from 1st lesson to come)

Mock Meet

2011-08-26T06:59:00.000-07:00

Last night, our little gymnast had a practice meet to get ready for their upcoming meet in September.

What a great idea, I hope that they look at the mistakes and explain to the gymnast areas of improvement. We all know that Mack doesn't take advice from us FOR SURE!! ;) She had to have her hair fixed correctly and had to wear her competion leo and warm up suit! She was excited about getting to wear her new things!!!

I think she did pretty well for her 1st go at it, because they have practiced very few times with the music and the whole routine. ~~Why, I have no idea why??~~

Here she is after mine and Aunt Heather's trip to Walmart to get necessary hair products to slick down all her fly away hairs!!! : )

Hair gel & Aqua Net..the winning hair combination to keep hair off face!

Here is a quick video I took with my phone through the glass, so you don't get to hear the music just chatter from a lobby full of excited parents!!

Just one of the many reasons I love him so....

2011-08-24T15:53:00.000-07:00

Content.as.can.be.

quiet as a mouse!

Just enjoying the morning coloring in his batman coloring book in his new spiderman pj's that HaHa & Matt sent him for his birthday! ; )

The Party!

2011-08-23T14:22:00.000-07:00

Davis' 5th birthday party was a blast. Although, someone turned the heat on (hehee) it was still lots of fun!

It was actually a party that I would have loved to have had as a kid, one that involved horses!

Most of you know, they are one of my loves in life!

Davis and his sweet friend Sara Kate joined in together to celebrate their birthdays.

It works great and they love it!

They were blessed with lots of friends & family to celebrate the day with.

Here are a few pictures from their special day:

FIVE!!!!

2011-08-22T12:20:00.000-07:00

Happy 5th Birthday, Sweet Boy!

We love you to the moon & back!

Things I want to remember about you:

*You woke up this morning saying, "I'm already 5!"

*You wanted your good Banks to spend the night tonight since you are 5 and that is the magic age that I have been telling you when you can have spend the night company!

*Your favorite foods..ANYTHING SWEET! Poptarts, french toast sticks, cookies, grilled cheese, soft tacos, pizza!

*You love to snuggle with your mommy, which of course, I love!

*You have the sweetest heart and the most thoughtful little boy!

*You love to play with spidermen, race cars, football & baseball, Wii and any game device!

*you weigh 35 lbs & are 43 inches tall.

"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful.

I know that full well."

Psalm 139:14

*Party Post to follow*

Our newest bundle of joy...

2011-08-18T21:50:00.000-07:00

I guess I should have put "their",

Instead of "our"!

My sister Haley is expecting her 1st baby in February and I couldn't be happier for her and Matt!!

You see if they didn't live in Austin, I might could say "our", because I would probably steal Baby G and spoil he/she rotten and keep he/she for myself! ; )

Congrats Haley and Matt! We love all 3 of you so much!

"Before you were conceived I prayed for you...before you were born I loved you."

Meet The Teacher

2011-08-17T16:11:00.000-07:00

Or Not...

These two were Davis' 2 year old teachers...They are GREAT and I couldn't be happier to have them teach Davis this year!

I know he is going to learn so much and that he is going to get lots of loving!

He's going to share another year with his good buddies Banks and Sara Kate & I know that he is going to make new friendships that are going to last a lifetime!

Happy about the decision that I contemplated on for some time, I know that it was the right one and in a few years I know I will be even more happy!

To another year...

1st day as a 3rd grader and Bus Rider

2011-08-08T18:46:00.000-07:00

Today was Mack's 1st day of school as a 3rd grader!!!

She woke up before the alarm clock went off, I think she was EXCITED!

Me...Not so much! I could barley lift my head up off the pillow. Ha!

We made it to school on time, snapped a picture of her walking in & I felt like it was her 1st day of Kindergarten all over again. She headed into the activity room & took a seat & did not act like she was nervous one bit about a new school year in a new school!!! I love that about her!

Ever since Mack was in Kindergarten she has begged & pleaded to ride the school bus, I on the other hand, felt that I wanted to be the one to pick her up from school! After all, that is why I have the schedule I do! On Friday night as I was laying in bed (thinking and trying to go to sleep), I thought, "Why Not??" Our street was literally the 1st stop on the way home from school, so it worked GREAT! So, when I took her in this morning I changed her form from a car rider to a bus rider and when I saw her at the bus stop she was grinning ear to ear! I asked her how it was and she said that the bus driver drove crazy ( we related it to how it is when she rides with her Aunt Heather-Ha!!) and I then asked her did she have AC in there and she said, I don't know but you could feel the wind! ; ) I enjoyed being able to get a few thing done in that 45 minutes! So, in my book...she's an OFFICIAL bus rider!

Great 1st Day. Well, except for the whole getting out of the bed part for me!!! ; )

Do you see what I see??

2011-08-07T16:39:00.000-07:00

Another Missing Tooth!!!

Mack lost her 5th tooth on Tuesday night!

It's hard getting used to these permanent teeth coming in,

out with the baby teeth in with the "got to grow into your teeth look!' ; )

PeAcE LoVe & CuPcAkEs

2011-08-05T21:53:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Tara and her cute cupcakes I had this bright idea to have a back to school party for Mackenzie.
Since we celebrated Mackenzie's birthday at the beach I promised her that we would have a get together during the summer, but little did I know, the summer had slipped away! I threw this little together at the last minute, did NOT make Tara's cute cupcakes, only because there is no time in my life for baking! ; ) Loved that my sweet little girl said a prayer with all her friends, thanking Him for her friends, blessing her with the food, and thankful for all He has given her!
Somebody pinch me, can't believe school starts MONDAY!

CUPCAKES!!!

Pink Lemonade!!!

Backpack Tags for all the girls

Thankful for such sweet friends that we can enjoy cupcakes & lemonade with!

Meet the Teacher 3rd Grade Style!

2011-08-04T20:38:00.000-07:00

Up and at 'em...

bright & early!!!

For some it might not be early, but for us..to be somewhere before 10 is

EARLY!!!!

**You can look at Mack's eyes and see that she is still 1/2 asleep. She joked when getting dressed that

she was going to have to take a nap on the way to school! ; )

Excited to share another year with Abbie...

And Laura Tyson, but she wasn't there when we were to get a picture!

Mackenzie and her new teacher, Mrs. Lewis

"But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them shout for joy..."

Psalm 5:11

Another Year....

2011-08-03T19:09:00.000-07:00

Can't believe that we go tomorrow for Meet The Teacher!!!!

A new teacher and a new school.

Here are the past 3 years of Meet the Teacher:

Kindergarten:

Mackenzie & Mrs. Mann

1st Grade:

Mackenzie and Mrs. Thrash

2nd Grade:

Mackenzie and Mrs. Patton

Still in shock that I have a 3rd grader!!! :(

New Hobby??

2011-08-02T13:37:00.000-07:00

Mackenzie had her 1st piano lesson yesterday with Mrs. Huling.

She came out grinning ear to ear and can't wait to go back next week.

She got her piano books and was so excited to show them to me!

Right now, we don't have a piano. Her MiMi has offered us the one at her house, but I want to make

sure she continues to love it before we go through the trouble of moving it.

We went over to Mimi's after her lesson so she could show us what all she had learned.

She was surprised when I opened up the piano bench to show her my piano books,

guess I have never mentioned that I once played or maybe it's the fact that she's never heard

me play, bc I can't remember a thing!

I hope that she will stick with it and enjoy it, b/c I love to hear someone play the piano!

A little bit of this & a little bit of that!

2011-07-31T20:33:00.000-07:00

This is a conglomeration of our last few days.

Whew! We are on our final stretch of summer. Where did the summer go?!

I can hardly believe that next week this time, my kiddos will be tucked in bed and we will be getting ready to start school the next day. We are so not ready. My plan is to get us back on schedule this week, b/c I know next Monday morning is going to be a rude awakening!

On Friday, we spent the afternoon and evening at Callaway Gardens.

The kids enjoyed swimming in the lake & the adults enjoyed sitting on the lawn listening to the band.

We packed a picnic, ate real quick and then headed to watched the circus.

After the circus, we headed back to our chairs and listened to the band some more. The kids played in the sand, ran through the grass, and snuck in the water for one last dip (until the security guard caught them and sent them running)! ; )

On Saturday, we went to celebrate with Bear~Bear for his 4th birthday!

This lil' stinker melts my heart in every way possible. He's cute as a button and is a huge ham!

Happy Birthday Barrett!!

Thanks for inviting us to your "eeekky" party! ; )

I can not believe my kids have these snakes around their necks! Eeeek!

I literally could not think about those snakes the rest of the day, I'm such a scaredy cat when it comes to slivery things!

I am not sure why I have not one picture of Dawson, but I don't! :(

Aunt Heather and Dawson spent the night with us on Friday night and I was heart broken when I asked Heather to put him in the bed that morning with me and he was all clingy to her!

So, Aunt Shea-Shea had to work her magic.

Poor boy had forgotten who I was. Shame on me!

He has gotten so big and is so precious!

We enjoyed a delicious dinner prepared by Ano and Woof-Woof. (those of you that don't know that is the nicknames that my kids made up for Amy & Jarrod)

And then...

Davis had his 1st spend the night guest, Cousin Willard!

Those were 2 happy boys!

We made the boys a pallet on the floor, Mack took the bed in true princess fashion & they watch about 10 minutes of a movie.

Willard fell asleep. Mack went to her room where it is really, really dark! (she even unplugs her tv so that light doesn't bother her) Davis joined his mommy and then his daddy joined Willard.

So..after a lot of switcherooo..

I guess you would say that Uncle Bubba and Willard had a sleep over.

and today is my sister otherwise known as Tood's birthday!

Happy Birthday! We love you!!!
We hope your day was as special as you are!

Since, there has been a lot of buzz...

2011-07-27T20:40:00.000-07:00

about Tomato Pie...

I had to try it!

DELISH!

Thanks for the recipe Annie and Angie! :)
recipe Here and Here

These two boys...

2011-07-26T19:22:00.000-07:00

are BEST BUDS!

but...

In the beginning, it was a rocky start. Lots of competion. Lots of fighting.

Will loved Kenzie and thought she hung the moon.

Now...the tables have turned and he thinks Davis has hung the moon.

I thought we might never get to this point, but I knew if we ever did it was going to be something

wonderful and boy is it!

Tonight, we stopped by for a quick sec to pick up some tomatoes that Uncle Chuck left us at Ano's house

and Will started crying when we were about to leave, so I offered a ride around the block to make things

better. When we were in the car, Davis said..."Hey Willard!!!" and Will looked at him and said, "Hey Davislard!"

It was so stinkin' sweet.

I just love those two!

He's my....

2011-07-25T21:04:00.000-07:00

Hunk of Burning Love!!!

and I love every ounce of him!

Sweet & Sassy

2011-07-24T21:19:00.000-07:00

Saturday I decided to take some quick pictures of Kenzie. She, of course, was not excited. What is it about bringing out the camera that makes kids fuss? She agreed and came outside and I snapped 5, yes 5, quick pictures before she started fussing that it was hot and the grass was making her itch. I know she's mine, but she's beautiful in every way. I pray that she will always having a loving heart towards others and continue to grow in Him and look to Him in guiding her in making wise decisions.

She's:

* so sweet (most of the time)

*very creative with her drawing

* has an "eye" for decor like her mama

* loves her cousins to pieces and helps with them all the time

* leaves her plate on the counter nearly every time although I remind her every.single.day to put it in the sink (her brother almost always remembers, why can't she??)

* working so hard in gymnastics

* excited to be a 3rd grader & is praying every night she says for a certain teacher she wants

* loves to play school with her brother

* still loves her barbies

*wears a 1.5 in shoes (what happened to her baby feet??)

*loves her friends & loves to socialize with them (into texting with ipod touch)

*sassy & says the most growny things these days

*her chore is to help feed the dogs (she shares this with her brother) and to make her bed up every morning

*favorite food: Steak and potato

Sweet & Sassy..that's our Mackenzie!

We love her to sweet & sassy self!

"Every good and perfect gift is from above..." James 1:17

Chocolate Lovers Dream Cake

2011-07-23T14:02:00.000-07:00

Taking this over to a friends for dinner tonight... Looks yummy, right??

Of course, cooking a cake isn't complete without a taste sampler and I have the perfect taste sampler.

He would eat anything with a chocolate base!

My suga' lova' he is!

Click below for the recipe:

recipe link

Rain..Rain..Go Away!

2011-07-20T08:44:00.000-07:00

I would rather be outside playing any ole' day, but today we are stuck doing inside stuff.

Mackenzie got this little gift from her sweet friends, Madison, Bailey, & Blair and I have a feeling we will be pulling it out to keep ourselves busy today! As for me, I am going to have to suit up in some rain gear, b/c I have flowers to do for the grand opening of Zoe's in Auburn!

Happy Rainy Wednesday!

Enjoying the Sun!

2011-07-19T10:14:00.000-07:00

The last few days have been rainy, so when the sun came out...we did too!

Oh..and so did our superhero...Spidey! ;)

#10

2011-07-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

Thursday night was Davis' last Tball game, with the exception of a rainy thunderstorm thundercast that caused his game to be cancelled! :( One. Sad. Boy. He has loved tball and talks about it every single day.

He wonders...do I have a game tonight? What time is it? Will you check your phone mama to see what the weather is going to be?? Between Mack's gym schedule and Davis' tball schedule, it has kept us on the go. As much as I thought I was ready for it to be over so we could slow down, I hate to see that something this little boy loves coming to an end. We will have his Team party this Tuesday night and we will close the chapter of the Sandnats!

Just for the records:

Team Name: Sandnats

Your number: #10

Coach: Coach Ferguson

Friends on Team:

Gabe, Macy, Mary Catherine, & Susanna

Your biggest fans: Mommy, Daddy, Kenzie, MeMaw, Will, Ano, Jack, Mimi, Mr. Jim, & Dare

Favorite Memory for Mommy: Watching you slide into homeplate and just laying on the plate to prove you made it home! ; ) Watching youwork that tongue...it's always out when you concentrate!

Favorite Memory for Daddy: how good you did when you listened and seeing how much you enjoyed it!

We love you Bud~Bud!

Way to Go Sandnats #10!!!

PJ's or...

2011-07-12T04:17:00.000-07:00

your Bob the builder construction hat, pirates patch, football,

and your birthday suit!

Where are your clothes, sweet boy??

This is what Davis came out wearing last night when I sent him to his room after bath time to get his pj's on.

I think he got a little distracted and came out wearing all this NAKED! ; )

Happy Tuesday!

Beach with Gab's recap

2011-07-11T18:04:00.000-07:00

We are blessed with lots of great friends and to get to spend a little trip at the beach with them was lots of fun! Ginny was one of the 1st people I met when I moved to Opelika and she has been one of my dear friends for many years. Ginny called and asked if we would like to join them at the beach and of course, I was excited to be able to make the trip. The kids had a blast playing, swimming, & giggling together & the adults enjoyed tucking them in bed every night! ha! Just kidding....but not really! ; ) Here is a little recap of our days at the beach...

Lots of time spent playing in the sand...

Beautiful girls

This gives me a flash into the near future...look at Mack playing with that cell phone and them laying out in the sun!!!

Davis loved fishing with Mr. Paul~Thanks Mr. Paul for making this boys day!

What makes us think we can get pictures on the beach??? We turn around and they are knee deep in sand!! I guess we like to be stressed! ;)

Thanks Paul and Ginny for being such great friends and the invite!!!

Catchin' up...

2011-07-08T13:43:00.000-07:00

Seems like we have been living on the go...

what am I talking about...Seems...We HAVE!

A week (or maybe 2, who's keeping up with time) ago,

I met up with two of my best friends from highschool.

We always pick up right where we left off~which is why I love these two so much!

We laughed & talked about the past and present!!!

I'm so very thankful for their friendship over the years.

The kids swam off to the jet ski...and this is where the ~~love~~ friendship began between the two Mac's! ; )

They could not be seperated the rest.of.the.day.

The kids roasted their hotdogs and then had smores for dessert! (Not sure why Owen wasn't looking at the camera, maybe he was showing his stubborn side that his mama was telling us about! ha! )

Davis and I were packing up to get ready to go home, because he had a tball game that evening, but his sister was not ready to go. Thankfully, April invited her to stay the night because I'm sure a melt down would have been in store had she had to leave. She ended up staying 2 nights with all the boys! April assured me that she would call me or meet me if Mack started to miss her mama & I assured her that she would not have to call me. Mackenzie loves to be on the go. You can throw her into any situation and she is good to go. I got several texts over the 2 days telling me that my child was being spoiled rotten. ha!

We then met up for lunch at Chick-fil-a and came back to our house, let the kids play and literally sat and relaxed until it was time to head to the plains to watch Bethany cheer.

Mackenzie had Bailey & Blair over to spend the night and those girlies were in heaven watching all those cheerleaders and were very entertained until about 8 that night when we left.

Bethany did great. Sometimes I have to pinch myself, I can't believe she's all grown up. I remember the day she was born, what a beautiful girl she has grown up to be! I loved hearing them saying "girls music is on"...it reminded me of when we were in highschool going to watch the MAS cheerleaders. Oh, those were the days!

Thanks April and Paula for our little reunion! Let's do it again before that little China doll arrives!

xoxo!

My beach babies...

2011-07-07T22:11:00.000-07:00

As hard as it was to come back...

We're back.

Back to reality.

We hope you...

2011-07-06T18:35:00.000-07:00

had a

Happy 4th of July weekend!!!

Workin on his putt...

2011-06-30T13:47:00.000-07:00

with of course,

Safety googles on! ; )

Sisters

2011-06-24T08:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I got the sweetest birthday card from

my sister.

She's incredible. I love her, sometimes! ;)

I enjoy ~~our~~ her on the way home from work calls.

I love the fact that if she were ever going to forget my birthday that since last year, I have been

forever marked on her caledar, because now it's her wedding anniversary!

I love that I can tickle her and no matter what, she will always begin laughing, but then it will make her mad as fire!

Thanks Tood (that's sister for me as a little girl) for being such a great Tood!

You are the best and I love you dearly!

Here is what the perfect card she picked out read:

We're Sisters

We're there for each other during the freak outs and OMG moments in life.

We laugh and cry and curse and complain about things

going on with friends, family, and life in general.

We burn through cell phone minutes chatting about everything

from the boring details of our to-do lists to the really important maters of the heart.

We've seen each other at our best and our worst as we shared the ups and downs of life~

Because w're not just sisters,

we're the best of friends!