Kel's Tales

christmas 2010

2010-12-08T09:06:00.001-06:00

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Thankfully Thankful

2010-11-28T21:53:00.001-06:00

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. Wow! Another year and it's that time again- time to take a deep breath and pause and soak in everything I should be thankful and grateful for daily but often take for granted. It's SO easy and almost next to impossible not to take all of our blessings for granted. It's a lesson I have learned over and over this year. 2010 will certainly go down in the books as a year I discovered a lot about my marriage, myself, things and people taken for granted and just how much I really have to be so thankful for. This Thanksgiving will be bittersweet- a day to remember what I should have been remembering all along. A day to take time out and just be thankful when I should take more time out to do just that. Here's just a FEW of the reasons I am giving thanks this year:

First, I have the absolute greatest daughters. Three of them. And I LOVE them like crazy even when they make me crazy. Honestly, I can't even type those sentences without getting teary eyed. I knew I always wanted to be a mom, I just had NO idea how rewarding it would be. Not only am I blessed with daughters, they have all been healthy and safe. I hear, and know some personally, about children fighting cancer and other life threatening illnesses. We are so, so fortunate that our daughters have their health. I have a close friend who has recently found out her husband's relationship with their daughters had crossed a line into inappropriate. I. Can. Not. Imagine. There is a lot I could handle, but I'm just not sure someone intentionally harming my precious and innocent girls is on that list. I feel certain I would come undone. Completely. I have cried for nights for these sweet little friends of ours whom I love. And it makes me that much more thankful this year that my daughters are safe and secure. And healthy. I want you Alyssa, Anniston and Ayden Claire to always feel appreciated, respected, loved, and wanted. Because each of you are all of those things. I was so thankful for you from the first day I knew I was expecting each one of you. I can not even begin to count the blessings you have each brought into my life.

Second to top the list is Wes. This has been a rough year for us for so many reasons but at the end of the day, I can not imagine life without him. He keeps me going when I don't want to go anymore. He loves me when I'm really not very lovable. And he is an amazing dad. Eleven years of marriage have not come without storms, but we've withstood and I am so thankful for that. There have been many many days he's been taken for granted. If I've learned one thing this year, it's to not take the people most precious to you for granted. Don't just assume they know how important they are to you or how much you love them. Tell them. Show them. Let them know.

Thirdly, I have the BEST sisters in the world! They are all 3 so very different and special. Jill, you make me laugh when laughing is not what I want to do. You are the funniest person I know. (After Bekah maybe...) Kendra, you never tell me what I want to hear- you just say what needs to be said. And you had our niece on Ayden Claire's birthday! Jen, you are wise beyond your 25 or so years... ;) I know I can talk to you and your advice will be sincere, thoughtful and filled with love. We all four have such different personalities but the bond that we share is rare and special. I am so thankful for my sisters- they keep my life exciting and keep me in line and I love them so much! Oh, and they keep my kids every now and then....
I am also thankful for the friends in my life who are like "sisters". When we moved here 11 years ago, I knew one person- Cristy Frazier. And I barely knew her. Now, she is one of the first people I call with great news, sad news, and almost any question because she usually has an answer! My girls consider her girls their "cousins" and love them so much! But I'm also happy to say that I have made several of the best friends ever here. Friends that I can shop with, go to the park with, pack up and take all of our children to the beach together, and even leave my children with them while we leave the COUNTRY! Now that's a good friend!

I'm thankful for so much more, like the fact that we have a Target in Prattville, that I woke up when I was put to sleep for the first time ever this summer, that I managed to go an entire year without the kids breaking my iPhone, that my car saw 100,000 miles come and go, for homemade macaroni and cheese, fabric softener, and volumizing shampoo. I'm thankful that Ayden Claire can say "fork" without leaving out the "r" now days. I'm thankful Anniston finally owns a pair of jeans. I'm thankful Alyssa finally owns a skirt. And although there is so much more to be grateful for, lastly for today, I'm thankful Wes has more gray hair than I do. :)

Soup, Sex, and Kai

2010-10-10T20:39:00.000-05:00

Nothing says Fall to me more than buying the ingredients and making Sante Fe soup! I always look forward to it once it starts to cool down. And by "cool down", I mean get below 75 degrees. Because that's soup and chili weather, right? :) Well, David, Kendra, Kai, Josh and Jill came to our house this weekend and so even though it was warmer than 75 degrees, I decided we would have Sante Fe soup with our SEC football games. And "Better Than Sex" cake. It is delicious! So, basically I gained 8 pounds this weekend. Alabama lost after 19 wins.... :( Maybe that's partly why I ate all weekend!

Alyssa finally got to meet her new cousin, Kai. To say she was excited would be a vast understatement. She LOVES babies. She is going to be a great mommy one day!

Kai was just precious! Kendra had her sporting a little mohawk- so cute! She's just tiny. It's so hard to remember my girls ever being this little! Well, Alyssa is the only one who ever was really this little. Anniston and Ayden Claire were huge babies. It was so fun to hold and love on a tiny, precious, new baby. But I'm glad she's my niece and I can hand her over to her mommy! ;)

Audrey Kai Hill

Flyin' High

2010-10-10T17:20:00.000-05:00

Wes has his "dream job" of being a flight medic. He loves it and he's great at it and we are so proud of him. I don't do blood and broken bones and mangled bodies. Not. At. All. I'm the person who fainted when Anniston's earring got caught in her pillow one night while she was sleeping. I really don't do earrings. But, Wes does and he took this picture on top of UAB because he's just cool like that and I think he's really sexy standing on top of a hospital. He came very close to leaving this job this summer. In the end, he stayed and I'm glad that he did. We miss him like crazy when he's gone for 24 hours, but he is doing something he loves and it allows me to do what I love- be a stay at home mommy until Ayden Claire goes to school.

Can you believe he flew right over Jill's house? I want an aerial shot of our house! Jill and Josh's is the house in the cul de sac with the huge fenced in back yard. The fence Wes, Josh, David, Jay and my dad built. It looks great from that high in the sky, huh?

Ayden Claire is 3!

2010-10-10T17:00:00.000-05:00

Our "baby" is 3! I think no matter how old she is, she will forever be the "baby" to all of us! She's just the best little person with the best little personality and I love, love, love this little girl. She talked about her "birfday potty" (because she speaks like a proper little British girl should) for oh, about 8 months straight. It had to be Dora and she had to invite Peeps, Ella and Sophie. Her besties. But her birthday also had to fall right after Alyssa's 10th and our anniversary so there is always tons of extra money and time. Right. Oh, and this year Kendra had her baby on Ayden Claire's birthday! So I was in Birmingham welcoming Miss Audrey Kai most of the day of Ayden Claire's actual birthday. But, between all the craziness that was the month of September, we decided to celebrate her birthday with our friends from our old neighborhood. Lisa was throwing Jason a surprise 40th and since everyone and their kids were going to be there, she said we could include AC. (Super big thank you, Lisa. And Jason, for sharing your party!) Ayden Claire, in all of her 3 years of infinite wisdom, totally thought every person there was there entirely for her "potty" and never suspected a thing. Like that I didn't actually do a very good job of planning her a great 3rd birthday bash like her sisters had.... Poor 3rd child, huh? You know what? She's our happiest and most well adjusted! I almost wish someone would have told me to take it easy with the parties when they were young and I could get away with cake and cheese puffs and several friends. It was perfect and she still talks about her Dora "potty". And, maybe if I start now, I can make the 4th birthday a real blowout!

Doesn't she look SO excited to be turning 3?!??! She is really THE happiest kid!

And I am THE happiest aunt- even though I'd been up ALL night waiting on Miss Kai. She was worth it!

Our big 3 year old with her "peace sign shoes" she HAD to have!

I am...

2010-09-29T09:21:00.000-05:00

Just because I saw this and really liked it.....

I am strong because I have been weak.

I am a lover because I am a fighter.

I am fearless because I have been afraid.

I am wise because I have been foolish.

I can laugh because I have also known sadness.

I know my past, yet I can see my future will be great!

11 Years and The Olive Room

2010-09-12T18:12:00.001-05:00

Friday, September 10th, was our anniversary! 11 years! Wes had flowers delivered- something he hasn't done since....well, I don't remember the last time! When his grandmother was still alive and she and his aunt Ginger owned Kelley's florist in Tuscaloosa, I used to get flowers. But that was before we were married and had moved out of town! I'm perfectly fine with not getting flowers because I am pretty practical when it comes to spending money, but it was a very nice surprise! He also made us reservations (RESERVATIONS!) at the Olive Room. I've only heard about the Olive Room and we've certainly never eaten there. He had arranged for us to have the one private booth in the restaraunt. It is actually a small old elevator that has a table set up in it with candles. It was super romantic! We felt like we were the only people in the world for a little while! And our food was DELICIOUS! We had a bottle of the best wine ever and hummus for an appetizer. Wes had tuna that was out of this world and I had a shrimp pasta. Yummy! We will have to start saving up for dinner there next year!

After dinner we went by Haynes. Because were else do you go on your anniversary while you have a babysitter but work? :) Then we headed back to Millbrook with a stop by Dairy Queen for a Heath blizzard and the bank for said babysitter's money! It was a great anniversary. Hopefully we'll celebrate many, many more!

ROLL TIDE and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2010-09-09T09:37:00.000-05:00

Alyssa's 10th birthday fell on Alabama's season opener against San Jose State and Labor Day weekend! We celebrated all weekend. I'm a BIG birthday person- I think birthdays are a big deal and love making birthday girls (or boys) feel special. She had a couple friends over Friday night and we had our friends and their kids over Saturday to watch the game. Wes's mom and grandmother came down and spent the day with us so Alyssa got to see them on her birthday. Jill and Josh also came so that ALWAYS makes for lots of fun! Alyssa didn't ask for anything big for her birthday- just surprises. She got a cute new hair dryer and straightener (although Anniston may have been more excited!), a Ramona and Beezus book, a picture for her room she'd wanted, a new binder and a few other small things. The 3 girls who moved in to our old house spent the night with us Saturday night- how neat! We took her shopping on Labor Day to spend her gift cards and birthday money. And then that night we had 2 other friends over for a sleepover! Lots of spend the night company but I love listening to the girls play and make up dances to blaring music. I know God knew what he was doing when he gave me daughters!
Oh, and Alabama won (not surprising, but still exciting!).
ROLL TIDE!!!!

Remember When

2010-09-02T10:03:00.001-05:00

Most of my blogs are about our girls. Because they are way cuter and much more exciting than myself and Wes! But...Wes and I do have a life as well, surprisingly! Of course, our kids are a HUGE part of our lives and I don't know what we would do without them but there will come a day when it's just me and Wes again. Isn't that the goal- to raise independent, self sufficient children who will one day spread their wings and fly (not too far away from home, please!)? And that will leave us with, well each other. I must tell you, I'm not rushing this season in life for one second, but when we get to that next season, I plan to enjoy it just as much as where we are now! Wes and I love the country song that says, "When the children grow up and move away, we won't be sad, we'll be glad, for all the life we've had....And we'll remember when." I am just SO glad for all the life we've had up to this point- and we've done a lot of living! But I know there will come a day when I have even more life behind me and so will our girls.
This December will be 15 years since Wes and I had our first date! We were both 16 year old juniors with several of the same classes and we lived about 5 houses away from one another. And he somehow still managed to be late picking me up to go see "Seven". It is still one of our favorite movies. I was the quiet girl on yearbook staff and he was the cute baseball player who was always goofing off. Match made in Heaven, right? But one date led to another and another and then to prom and long talks and becoming best friends and falling in love. I'm pretty sure no matter what had happened after those first couple of years, we would have always had a special place in one anothers heart. There is just something about first real loves....we shared so many firsts with one another and we were young and crazy in love and did ~~stupid~~ crazy teenage things and grew into adults together. So much so that we got married at the ripe old age of 20. I will say this, I hope my daughters get married when they are mature enough to understand and take on the commitment of marriage. I knew at 20, standing in a gazebo beside the ocean in Jamaica, that I meant and fully intended to keep the vows I was taking. And I can tell you, at 30, when Wes totally surprised me with a surprise vow renewal for our 10 year anniversary, I meant and fully intended to keep those vows as well. I am a HUGE believer in doing what you say and keeping your word. So if I say I'm going to do something, you can pretty well take it to the bank. That doesn't mean that those 10 years were always easy and perfect in between, but I wouldn't trade any of them for a day with another person.
This past year of marriage has by far been the most difficult year for us! We've had 3 very involved and active girls and major stress factors to deal with. (You try keeping a house 5 people live in clean enough to be shown to potential buyers at a moments notice- STRESSFUL!) :) But, we have pressed on and as our 11th anniversary approaches, I love my husband more today than I did yesterday and more today than I did 11 years ago. And I was REALLY in love with him back then! ;) I love the man that he is and I love him even more for the man that he wants to become. I love him not only because he gave me our girls, but because of the Daddy he is to them. I love him not only because he provides for us, but because he does it out of love and not duty. I love him not only because he loves me, but because he loves me at my best AND my worst. And at the end of the day, I love him at his best and worst- and I've seen him at both ends of the spectrum. When I am unlovable, he loves me anyway. And when he is unlovable, I've kept on loving him. "One day we're gonna look back and say 'Look at us now' "....... I've repeated this line from dear ol' Reba so many times. Being married isn't really about being storybook happy every day. It is great on the days that we are living a fairy tale. But being married is about seeing the other person for who they are and who you know they can be. It's about forgiving when forgiving is the last thing you want to do. It's about looking forward with your spouse rather than looking back without them. It's about seeing beyond their flaws and remembering their perfections. It's about being your spouses biggest cheerleader even if you are the only one on the squad. It's about knowing their worth even when they don't. It's about choices- making the best ones and working through it when you don't. It's about honesty and trust and keeping what is precious to you near and dear. It's a conscious and daily effort you can never take for granted. It's easier said than done. It's a huge commitment. But, it's worth it.
I love you, babe.

Happy 11th Anniversary!

"Remember When"
Remember when I was young and so were you
And time stood still and love was all we knew

You were the first, so was I

We made love and then you cried
Remember when

Remember when we vowed the vows

And walked the walk

Gave our hearts, made the start, it was hard

We lived and learned, life threw curves

There was joy, there was hurtRemember when

Remember when old ones died and new were born

And life was changed, disassembled, rearranged

We came together, fell apart

And broke each other's hearts

Remember when

Remember when the sound of little feet

Was the music

We danced to week to week

Brought back the love, we found trust

Vowed we'd never give it up

Remember when

Remember when thirty seemed so old

Now lookn' back it's just a steppin' stone

To where we are,

Where we've been

Said we'd do it all again

Remember when

Remember when we said when we turned gray

When the children grow up and move away

We won't be sad, we'll be glad

For all the life we've had

And we'll remember when.

Alyssa

2010-08-31T11:55:00.000-05:00

Alyssa. Our first child. Strong, independent and wise. And brave. She may very well be one of the bravest people I know. Except when it comes to the dark or being alone on one side of the house. But you throw life at this girl, and she faces it head on. She's so courageous and I am so proud of the young lady she is becoming.

We went to Calloway Gardens with the Fraziers before Christmas. We drove through the "Fantasy in Lights" and visited the Butterfly Garden. So beautiful!

This picture pretty much sums up Alyssa's relationship with her baby sister- she loves her and Ayden Claire adores Alyssa! I know it's not always easy to be the oldest but Alyssa is truly the BEST big sister. She's so helpful!

We took the girls fishing at Lanark one day this spring and Alyssa caught the biggest fish I've ever seen! She was so excited. It was catch and release so he went back to the lake to live happily every after with all of his fishy friends.

<3 this little girl! She stole our hearts almost 10 years ago. Wow, how time flies!

Wes and I just love this picture of Alyssa! It is SO her! A little bit of attitude and sass with a beautiful smile and those innocent little dimples. And the leftover 4th of July tattoos.

Alyssa Grace will be 10 in four days and it just doesn't seem real! Have we really been blessed with her for a decade now? Have I really been a mommy for 10 years?!? Unbelievable. What I do know with certainty it that I could not be more thankful for this little girl.

Anniston

2010-08-30T19:53:00.001-05:00

Anniston....our sweet, sweet Anniston. She is holding steady her place as "middle child"- once was the baby and remembers that she was once the baby but now that spot is taken by her baby sister BUT she gets to be a big sister, too! She had lots of exciting things happen this year.....

.....It snowed! Twice! I mean really, how often do you get TWO snow days a school year in Alabama???!??

.....She got glasses! Pink glasses, of course.

.......and she lost her first tooth on her 6th birthday!

.....She got a hamster! She'd only been asking for one for months leading up to her birthday. So, here's "Pluto"- the Chinese Dwarf hamster. And ~~shockingly~~ he's still alive, 6 months later.

....She was asked to be on the preteam at gymnastics! She takes at the Armory in downtown Montgomery and they have been around forever and have some excellent gymnasts. Anyone who knew Anniston when she was 8 months old and started walking (I promise, we have video!) knows that Anniston was destined to be a gymnast! :) She LOVES to tumble and stand on her head. I've really never seen anything like it- she watches entire episodes of Hannah Montana in a headstand. Crazy- but we love her. And I sort of have hopes that one day Wes and I will be driving to the Coleman Coliseum in Tuscaloosa to watch our baby at her Alabama gymnastics meet! ;) Roll Tide!

....She made All-Stars at the end of softball season! Did I mention she's athletic? ;)

....And she ran away from home, sadly. Fortunately, she came back! We would have really missed our precious little blondie! (Please note she had totally dressed herself! She looks a little homeless in whatever this is she was wearing!!!)

....and of course, what's a year without some slumber parties with besties???

And now our lovely, eccentric middle daughter is in 1st grade and loving it. I never thought I'd see a day that Anniston went anywhere for any amount of time without me. :( But, it's a good thing, I know. She loves me in such a special way- she just LOVES! She is such a fun little girl and there are days that I just don't know where in the world she came from and I just have to shake my head....

Ayden Claire

2010-08-30T15:54:00.000-05:00

What a year for our "baby"! Ayden Claire has really come into her own this year and her personality is just contagious! She is the happiest person on earth, I'm positive. She literally bounces when she walks! I say quite often, "I just don't know if this house is big enough for Ayden Claire's personality!" I could really eat her up- she amazes me and I adore her.

Ayden Claire tried out ice skating for the first time this year. She quickly decided she likes the carousel better!

Heading to one of many birthday parties we celebrated this past year. She LOVES her friends!

Checking out Daddy's helicopter! Well, it's not really his, but it might as well be to the girls. They totally think he's the coolest!

Playing at the Archive Museum in downtown Montgomery. Don't her eyes just sparkle??? :)

And now her 3rd birthday is right around the corner! SO hard to believe. I can hardly remember a time without our little AC. She just completes our family so perfectly!

Fences

2010-08-01T10:58:00.000-05:00

Last weekend we went to Jill's house to build a fence. Yes, a fence. My dad and brother were coming up to build the fence Jill had been wanting since buying their house so Wes and David were enlisted to help. Wes was actually excited! Nothing like male bonding over a privacy fence in Alabama in July. And build it they did! They worked two days straight in 95+ degree summer heat and went through about 75 gatorades between the 5 of them. As the final boards were being nailed in to complete the fence, I started singing the line from the song "Signs"- "You put up a fence to keep me out, or to keep mother nature in...." I always liked that song! "Signs, signs, everywhere are signs, blocking up the scenery, breaking my mind, do this don't do that, can't you read the signs...." But back to the fence. And then I started thinking about where we build fences in our personal lives- do we put fences up to keep certain people in or out, where do we place fences or boundaries with our children? Everyone builds fences in different places....some closer to the house and some further away. Especially with our children! Still following me? Some parents put fences around their children VERY close to home in hopes of protecting them. In my opinion, and its just an opinion, that is okay but it really limits their view of what is beyond that fence. I don't want my girls to wake up one day and step outside of their fenced in life and be shocked by what is beyond their backyard. But, on the flip side of that, I don't want them to have too big of a fence too soon. So I think we put up our fence somewhere in the middle....probably a little closed in when it comes to some things and we expand the limitations with other things. I think at times my oldest daughter is a little sheltered and naive in ways. I try not to keep her totally in the dark but on the other hand I don't want her to worry about things that 9 year olds shouldn't worry about! It's a balancing act and there is a fine line as a parent I try to walk. Preparing your daughter for life and protecting her from life all at the same time. It seems impossible at times yet day after day that's what I try to do as a mom. My dad jokingly told Anniston once the fence was completely finished that "We're going to take it all down now!" One day (and not as far off as I'd like!) all the fences Wes and I have put up for our girls will be taken down. It will be up to them, as adults, to place and decide their own boundaries and what they will accept and let in and keep out of their lives. My prayer is that we've prepared them for that and when they test new things and find some unacceptable, they build their fences accordingly. And I also pray they never build fences around their hearts- guard them, yes, but don't fence in all that you have to give.

This picture really has nothing to do with fences, it was just taken in Jill's kitchen while the guys worked outside! Isn't Kendra the cutest little mommy to be? Can't wait to meet baby Kai!

Did I mention that I helped as well....? :)

Summer 2010

2010-07-31T09:20:00.001-05:00

Besides the biggie this summer, MOVING, we've also done a lot of other fun things! Once we got settled in and unpacked for the most part, I was ready to enjoy summer with my girls! I LOVE summer time, I love the heat, the pool, the beach, sunny days, swimsuits, barefeet, sprinklers, frozen drinks, popsicles, cookouts, late nights outside with neighbors, sleeping in, sleep overs, lazy days....did I mention I LOVE summer? It's my favorite season. A lot of people in the south dread and hate summer. Not me. Bring it on! So after spending a few weeks getting moved I felt like summer was slipping by and I wanted to make the most of what we had left. I knew we wouldn't be going on a big summer family vacation but we tried to plan several small getaways. We saw several movies- Toy Story 3, The Karate Kid, Twilight: Eclipse, Ramona and Beezus and Grown Ups for Wes and me, which was hilarious by the way. We took an overnight trip to Huntsville with my dear friend from high school, Kristi and her boys Brylan and Kyler. We went to the space center and then spent the night at a hotel and the next day went to Botanical Gardens which was beautiful!

On Father's Day I took the girls to see Wes since he was working at LifeFlight. We surprised him with Burger King for lunch and he gave the girls the grand tour of the base house and the helicopter. Needless to say, they think their Daddy has a pretty cool job!

We also went to Panama City with one of my best friends Rethelle and her children Jordan, Tyler, and Jerrica. Now, I haven't been to Panama City too many times. Once was senior trip and another time was spring break. I'm pretty sure there was way too much alcohol involved each time so the memories are slightly blurred. But we managed to find our hotel, which was less than we'd hoped for, and we managed to find our way to the beach and Applebees and several tacky souvenir shops. We had a blast and the weather was great. It was a perfect weekend getaway!

When the 4th of July rolled around, we headed back over to the old 'hood- neighborhood that is. We just LOVE our Taylor Crossing neighbors. We made 7 years of wonderful memories on that street in that house and with people who will forever be like family to us. So we went back and cooked out and shot fireworks with everyone. It was great!

Notice the tatoos on their cheeks? They may still be there NEXT July 4th! :)

The rest of the summer was spent with days at the pool and playdates with friends. It was one of the busiest summers we've had yet. Now we are down to the last week before school starts and Alyssa will be gone to camp the entire week. I guess we'll finish up school supply shopping and getting ready for 1st and 4th grade and start looking forward to the cruise with Chet and Cristy in November!!!

Playing Catch-Up!

2010-07-27T23:04:00.000-05:00

Wow! Where do I even begin.....? Almost a year ago?!? Obviously it was a very busy year. Alyssa started 3rd grade which proved to be less than we had hoped for. Anniston started kindergarten (sniff, sniff) and LOVED Mr. Hodum. But we'll get to that in a minute. Back to Alyssa. Her teacher was, well, lets just say not quite what we were used to! After many frustrations and tears and 9 weeks of school, Wes and I met with the principal to discuss the situation. We expressed some concerns and she responded by recommending we place Alyssa in a new class. Tough times. The new teacher was better. And I'll leave it at that. We survived 3rd grade and now we are anxiously awaiting to find out who her 4th grade teacher will be. School starts in less than 2 weeks! Anniston's kindergarten year could not have gone BETTER! She had a great class with the BEST kindergarten teacher (okay- there are a LOT of great kindergarten teachers at her school, but Mr. Hodum holds a very special place in my heart!). Mr. Hodum has taught both Alyssa and Anniston and I PRAY we are fortunate enough to have him teach Ayden Claire. He is one of a kind. Fun, funny, unique, silly, creative, and did I mention fun? All the kids love him and lots of the parents do as well. I could write an entire seperate blog just on why I love kindergarten and Mr. Hodum but I won't. Because I'm trying to "catch-up" with this blogging thing! We did get a call yesterday from Anniston's first grade teacher. I am SO excited that Ms. Autrey will be her new teacher. She is SO loving and she even talked to Anniston on the phone and told her she was going to be in her class! I have a feeling she will also be very dear to me by the end of the year.
Okay, so enough about school, because right now its still summer! For 12 more days that is. I guess after we got back from our cruise we got busy with the holidays- Thanksgiving and Christmas. Exhausting! Even more exhausting with 3 little girls! :) But we survived. And then we decided to put our house on the market. It was an idea we'd tossed around off and on for several years. And it was one of the hardest decisions ever! We loved our house and really loved our neighbors so it was NOT an easy decision. We just really wanted to pay off some debt, get something slightly bigger and get in to a little better neighborhood. Not that I was scared or that we lived in a bad neighborhood by any means- we just weren't sure it was where we would want to be forever. We listed it in February and got a contract in April. Now would be a good time to throw this in- the family who bought our house has 3 daughters about the ages of our girls, the mom's name is Kelli, and their oldest daughter's name is Alyssa. Crazy, huh? I think they were definitely the buyers that were supposed to have our house! We quickly put an offer on a house we had been looking at and wanted and after much stress we closed the first week of June on both houses and moved. We moved 7 years worth of stuff and 5 people from one house to another in about 72 hours. Stressful? Slightly. Add to it that at the time Anniston was playing All-Star softball and practicing EVERY night and had a tournament the day we closed and that weekend that was an hour away.... And Alyssa had started cheering with the Armory and had practices twice a week..... And Anniston had made the preteam at gymnastics.... And poor little Ayden Claire was somewhere in the crazy mix! But, fast forward a month and a half and we are pretty settled in and the new house is feeling like "home" and we really do love it here. Maybe I'll put a picture in the next blog post!
About the time that we were in the midst of selling our house and buying a new house, I had some other extremely stressful things come up. If you know, then thank you! Because I only got through things from the calls and talks I had with you, and you know who you are. I learned a LOT about myself and who I am and how strong I can be during this time. It was not the way I wanted to do it, nor would I wish it on anyone but I am stronger than I ever knew (and I always thought I was a pretty strong woman!) and I know I have the best friends and family and support ever! I also know that my family is THE most important thing and at the end of the day, as long as we have one another, we can survive ANYthing.
I have a lot of exciting things I'm looking forward to in the near future. I'm having something done that I've always wanted to do but was too scared to and never would have spent the money on. Hopefully I'll be happy with the results! :) I am SO looking forward to becoming an Aunt again in September when my sister Kendra has her baby! I am going to start keeping Jill's boss' baby boy sometime around December. His name is going to be Anderson, which I just LOVE (it's an "A" name!) and I can't wait to love on a sweet little newborn baby! I may put Ayden Claire in a mom's day out at the begining of the year. We'll just wait and see, I'm not really in any rush but I know she would LOVE it! She is going to miss her big sisters being home everyday once school starts. She just adores them both! Oh, and we are planning another cruise for the end of November which is almost as exciting as becoming an Aunt again! Almost. We had such a good time last year and said we wanted to try and do it more often, maybe once a year if we could. And we can this year so we are going! I can't wait....nothing is more relaxing than laying out by a pool and being completely surrounded as far as you can see any direction by beautiful blue water.... Ahhh.... I leave you with this quote one of my best friends sent me recently. I've heard it before but I still love it-
"As we grow up, we learn that even the one person that wasn't supposed to ever let you down probably will. You will have your heart broken probably more than once and it's harder every time. You'll break hearts too, so remember how it felt when yours was broken. You'll fight with your best friend. You'll blame a new love for things an old one did. You'll cry because time is passing too fast, and you'll eventually lose someone you love. So take too many pictures, laugh too much, and love like you've never been hurt because every sixty seconds you spend upset is a minute of happiness you'll never get back!"

Cruise to Cozumel

2009-10-02T08:51:00.001-05:00

Wes and I decided to celebrate our 10 year anniversary by going on a cruise. We'd never been on one; in fact, we hadn't been anywhere without our kids in 10 years! We were SO excited. Kendra came to our house Thursday to keep the kids and Jill came Friday- it takes a village when you have 3! We were able to easily relax and enjoy the cruise knowing the kids were in good hands. Thanks, sisters! We had such a wonderful and relaxing time. We were incredibly lazy! Laying by the pool....eating whenever we wanted withouth having to cook it or clean it up....having the bed made and turned back for us....WOW! We enjoyed it so much- we will definitely not wait 10 years to go on another cruise!

Wes driving to Mobile, where we boarded the ship! I thought it was too funny that they had the life jackets set out on the bed for us so that was the first thing you see! "Welcome aboard. Hope you don't need these....." :) We had to do a little safety drill about what we would do if the boat sank. Comforting. I am still not sure how they were going to squeeze EVERYone on that big ship into those 10 smaller boats along the sides of the ship....

This was a picture of the sunset our first night on board and a lighthouse we passed on our way to Cozumel. We had to play shuffleboard- we played it so many times when we were in Jamaica 10 years ago! It's "our" game! We had to fight off several elderly couples to play. Apparently shuffleboard is popular among people twice our age! While laying by the pool on our first day at sea, I saw someone having a Pina Colada. It looked so yummy and cold I had one. It was the so delicious I had to take a picture of it!

We arrived in Cozumel, Mexico Saturday morning. We spent the day doing very "touristy" things- shopping and being haggled by the store owners and then we went to a public beach and snorkeled! I loved Cozumel! The water was so beautiful and I enjoyed the shopping and bargaining! We got the girls each a Mexican dress and Mexican baby and maracas. We got Jill and Josh some Tequila and Kendra and David some Amarillo. We had authentic Mexican at an open air restaurant in downtown Cozumel. Yummy! It was such a fun day!

This was us all dressed up for the formal dinner night! We don't get all dressed up a whole lot normally, so it was fun!

Each night we came to our room to find not only the bed turned back for us but also these cute little towel creations! This was my favorite- a little bulldog! Cute, huh?

After 4 days of this view, it was time to get back to reality- job, 3 kids, cooking our own dinner, carpooling, homework, cleaning.... I was actually looking forward to reality on that drive home from Mobile to Millbrook. Reality is nice. But, so is a 4 day cruise getaway!

Terrible 2? Never!

2009-09-30T00:49:00.000-05:00

On September 14th, 2009, it happened. Ayden Claire turned 2. I couldn't stop it from happening even if I'd wanted to. I love babies and everything that comes with the whole "baby" phase and all of my girls will forever be my "babies"; however, I know that they can't forever physically stay babies. I would like for the hands of time to slow just a bit- the years just seem to go by entirely to quickly! Ayden Claire's birthday fell on a Monday- 10 days after Alyssa's 9th birthday, 3 days after the Taylor Swift concert, 4 days after our 10th wedding anniversary and 3 days before Wes and I left for a cruise. Did I mention her birthday fell on a Monday? Needless to say, it was quite a hectic week! We decided not to have a party this year. Now, that doesn't mean we didn't celebrate- we just celebrated amongst ourselves. I was very torn about this decision- I love birthdays and I love parties. I love all the little details and try to make them special. But. We just didn't have time this year. Honestly. There wasn't a free weekend the entire month of September and with family being 2 hours away and her not really having a lot of "friends"....you get the picture. I hope she doesn't hold the whole "turning 2 without an official party" thing against us and need therapy down the road over it. Back to celebrating- Ayden Claire woke up to us singing "Happy Birthday" around her crib. She wasn't quite amused enough to take her thumb out of her mouth, but she was amused nontheless.

I love this picture of her looking out of the corner of her eyes. I think she looks just like Anniston in it- and I normally don't really see a lot of Alyssa or Anniston in her. I just see Ayden Claire! But this one reminds me so much of Anniston- maybe its the way her hair almost looks blonde!

I made muffins for breakfast and we sang and blew out candles- she needed practice before the real deal!

Then we got dressed to take the big girls to school. I had found this birthday dress at TJ Maxx months ago- for $5! It was perfect for Ayden Claire- very princess-y and pink. And on sale.

She had lots of fun in her birthday dress!

She loved her new baby doll!

We went to O'Charley's to eat. My mom went with us and the balloon man was there so of course we had to get the birthday princess a crown! Afterwards, we came back home and had cake and sang a little more "Happy Birthday" and blew out candles once more before bedtime. Party or not, I think Ayden Claire had a great 2nd birthday!

Happy 2nd! Mommy loves you!

"I'll love you forever,

I'll like you for always.

As long as I'm living

my baby you'll be."

~Love You Forever

Alyssa and Anniston's First Concert- TAYLOR SWIFT!

2009-09-27T22:29:00.002-05:00

When Anniston turned 5, we celebrated in Disney World. Obviously, this isn't the norm for us and the way we spend birthdays. It just worked out that we could go around Anniston's birthday and I said if we were going to go around then, I wanted to be there ON her birthday and I wanted her to think we were there FOR her birthday. I do, however, think birthdays are a big deal. They don't have to be Disney, expensive, or extravagant; but they do have to be SPECIAL. After all, we are celebrating the BIRTH of someone. I mean, wow. That's a big deal and I believe in making birthdays special. I sing "Happy Birthday" at least 20 times throughout each girls birthday- its the first thing they hear when they wake up and I sing it as I tuck them in on the night of their birthday. So, back in March when I found out TAYLOR SWIFT (our FAVORITE singer!!) would be in Birmingham the week after Alyssa's birthday, I knew I had found her present. But wouldn't you know it, tickets went on sale the week we were in Disney World- without internet access. I was more than a little bummed to get home and find out they had not only gone on sale, but also sold out. Big time bummer. Well, I did what any ~~crazy~~ determined mom would- I went to a website and bought overpriced tickets to the sold out concert. And our seats were horrible but neither Alyssa nor Anniston complained and we could hear her just fine! We had a wonderful night with our big girls!

Alyssa and Anniston all dressed up and ready to go!

Heading into the BJCC!

Waiting for the show to begin- we were SO excited!

See that little bitty, tiny blue speck? Yeah, that's Taylor. :)

We <3 you, Taylor Swift!

Bribery

2009-09-25T20:01:00.004-05:00

Did I mention before heading home from the beach we stopped at The Wharf in Orange Beach Labor day weekend? Not because we'd totally bribed the kids with Zip-lining in exchange for cooperation during Saturday evenings pictures. Or, maybe so. Either way, every one was happy. We first rode the ferris wheel. It is not my favorite thing to do, but, where the family goes, I must follow. Alyssa had wanted to zip-line since seeing it earlier in the summer. At first Anniston didn't act like she wanted to do it, but the second she saw a BOY who appeared SMALLER than her, it was on! She would not be outdone! So, in the end, both older girls zip-lined across the Wharf's parking lot and then enjoyed a little time on the ropes course/treehouse. I think I'll pass on the ferris wheel next time- I'm zip-lining!

10 Years and A Big Surprise!

2009-09-14T12:32:00.005-05:00

Wes and I have been married 10 years as of September 10th. Whew, what a difference a decade makes. A difference of about 3 kids, a mortgage, gray hair and a vasectomy. ;) Wes had planned us a family portrait session- on the beach of Gulf Shores. I was so excited- family beach pictures by a professional who maybe could get all 3 of the girls plus us in a decent pose while we were somewhat looking at the camera with possibly even a smile! Thrilling! So, off I went in search of the perfect matching white dresses for the girls. Easy said in the spring- not so much in August. Fast forward a month, I did find dresses for the girls and thanks to Jill and Kendra, I too, had a beach picture white dress. The plan was for Josh, Jill, Kendra and David to all go to the beach that weekend too. We were going to use part of our picture session and get a few shots with all the siblings- Jen, Jill, Kendra, me and Jay- including the spouses and kids. No small fete seeing how between the 5 of us we successfully live in 5 different cities from far south Alabama to as far north as Ashville. Well, as we were finishing up with the family shots Wes briefly disappeared. I noticed my dad and stepmom had gotten to the beach as well as Jen and Haven. Well, here walks Wes towards me with a bouquet of flowers with some guy who looked like he could possibly be a preacher. Then it hit me- we weren't just here for pictures. He had planned a vow renewal ceremony for us with all of our closest family. Pretty great, huh? So, we renewed our vows right there at sunset on the beach with our daughters standing with us and our family. It was wonderful. We'd always said it was something we would like to do- I just didn't realize Wes was making it happen. We got married in Jamaica- just the 2 of us and have never regretted it. We truly just wanted a marriage. And that is what we have- a wonderful and solid, although no where near perfect, marriage. Here are some pictures taken with our camera- I can't wait to see the ones the photographer took!

Me and my sweetheart!

Jay, David, Wes and Josh. Great guys!

The girls!

Ayden Claire

Kendra and David

Jill and Josh

Jill, Jay and Kendra

Ayden Claire and Aunt Kendra

Wes and the preacher

So shocked!

Me with my girls and Jen with Haven

The Big "9"

2009-09-14T11:29:00.004-05:00

Alyssa Grace turned 9 on September 4th. Thats right, 9. Like, as in halfway to 18. 1 year short of a decade. 3 away from a dozen. 9. You get the picture. She chose to have a Paint Party at our house to celebrate. She didn't really have a party last year. Ayden Claire was busy turning 1 and I was, well, a little focused on planning her 1st birthday bash. So, bad Mom that I am, kind of didn't go all out for the 8th birthday. And then, well, we took a family vacation to Disneyworld for Anniston's 5th birthday in March. So, Alyssa was due for a little birthday attention. She invited her friends over and we had Marilyn Bullard from The Canvas Cafe come and do a Sips N Strokes type party. Minus the "Sips", of course. Ha! They painted a zebra print canvas to match her room. Everyone seemed to have a great time. And the best part was, I had very little to plan or clean up afterwards!

"I'm almost out of fingers!"

The birthday plate

Alyssa working on her masterpiece!

The living room- transformed in to the Canvas Cafe

Dancing to Miley's "Its a Party in the USA"

Sassy girls

All the girls with their finished canvases

Alyssa and Anniston realizing those pieces of paper are tickets to see Taylor Swift!

Just Because

2009-09-13T23:31:00.004-05:00

Just because I love this girl in pigtails.

Just because swinging around in circles is so much fun.

Just because you are almost 2 doesn't mean you won't always be my baby girl.

Just because Anniston thinks she's an expert cartwheeler now that she's been in gymnastics for a month.

Just because I love this family. Even the dogs.

Alyssa's New "Crib"

2009-09-13T22:44:00.003-05:00

Alyssa's room has been painted and decorated the same way since we moved into this house- she was 2 and a half. Its been pink and yellow with her little 2 and a half year old hand prints as the border for quite some time. She decided it was time for a change. A big change- she is, after all, 9 now. So, as part of her 9th birthday gift, we painted and redecorated her room. Here are some "Before's"-

Alyssa's 2 and a half year old hand prints. So little, so long ago.

And now some "After's"-

She was super excited about her new more mature bedroom.

The letters hanging above her bed were Aunt Jill's idea. I love how they turned out! This is the bedding she picked out.

Her new curtain from Nanny. It's really a shower curtain we looped ribbon through and turned in to a curtain.

Thank you Uncle Josh for helping Daddy paint. And thank you Aunt Jill for helping Mommy spray paint everything in sight black. ;)

Anniston Goes to Kindergarten

2009-09-13T22:01:00.004-05:00

Anniston started kindergarten this year. Talk about excited! She was thrilled to find out her teacher would be Mr. Hodum, the same teacher Alyssa had. She let me walk her in the first day but requested to be "dropped off" on day 2. :( She was so proud of her new found independence. Anniston is having a great year so far. She got Student of the Week the 2nd week of school and I was so proud of her! She is a sweet girl at school (and at home most of the time...) and has made some new friends. I haven't worried about her a bit- she is at, I'm convinced, one of the BEST schools. Its kindergarten through 2nd grade so Alyssa just spent 3 wonderful years there. Coosada has the most loving and caring people working there- from the principal, to the teachers to the PE coaches and librarians to the counselors. I've never seen a school genuinely care about the kids as much as they do! I could sing Coosada praises all night- anyway, I'm very happy she's there and I know she is going to learn and grow so much! I can't wait to see what the year has in store for her! I'll leave you with a poem that Mr. Hodum passed out at Open House. I just love it and the philosophy behind it-

"Just Playing" By Anita Wadley

When I'm building in the block area, please don't say, "I'm just playing."
For, you see, I'm learning as I play about balance and shapes.

When I'm getting all dressed up, setting the table, caring for the babies,
Don't get the idea I'm "just playing" - I may be a mother or father someday.

When you see me up to my elbows in paint,
Or standing at an easel, or molding and shaping clay,
Please don't let me hear you say, "He's just playing."
For, you see, I'm learning as I play. I'm expressing myself and being creative.
I may be an artist or inventor someday.

When you see me sitting in a chair "reading" to an imaginary audience,
Please don't laugh and think I'm "just playing."
For, your see, I'm learning as I play. I may be a teacher someday.

When you see me combing the bushes for bugs,
Or packing my pockets with choice things I find,
Don't pass it off as "just playing."
For, you see, I'm learning as I play.
I may be a scientist someday.

When you see me engrossed in a puzzle, or "plaything" at school,
Please don't feel the time is wasted in "play."
For, you see, I'm learning as I play.
I'm learning to solve problems and concentrate. I may be in business someday.

When you see me cooking or tasting foods,
Please don't think that because I enjoy it, it is just "play."
For, you see, I'm learning how my body works.
I may be a doctor, nurse, or athlete someday.

When you ask me what I've done at school today, and I say "I played,"
Please don't misunderstand me.
For, you see, I'm learning as I play.
I'm learning to be successful in work.
I'm preparing for tomorrow.
Today, I'm a child and my work is play.

Doesn't that just sum up Kindergarten? :)

School Days....3rd Grade!

2009-09-03T00:59:00.006-05:00

Alyssa started 3rd grade this year. No joke, 3rd grade. The school she was at, Coosada, was K-2 so this year she also changed schools. Airport Road Intermediate is 3rd and 4th grade. It is brand new this year so its exciting to be in a new building. Her teachers are Mrs. Kidwell and Mrs. Judge. Yes, that's right- 2 teachers! She changes up throughout the day. One teacher teaches math, science and social studies while the other teaches english, reading and spelling. Its a change all around for Alyssa (and for me!). I must admit, I am more nervous about 3rd grade than she is. But, she is a smart and sweet girl- I know she'll do great! So far, so good!
The first day in the first day outfit she picked out.

Sisterly support for Day 1!

The new backpack. Complete with monogram, of course.

Getting some 3rd grade advice from Aunt Jill.

Wonder World

2009-09-03T00:50:00.003-05:00

The kids had asked to go skating at Wonder World several times throughout the summer. Finally, the Friday before school started back, we went. They skated and bounced on the inflatables for about 4 hours! It was a great way to spend our last Friday of summer vacation!

Fun In The Sun

2009-09-03T00:13:00.005-05:00

The girls and I went to Gulf Shores/Orange Beach for a few nights this summer. My aunt Sheila and her twins Meredith and Madison and my Ma-Maw were staying in a condo there. We met them and the girls had a blast catching up and getting to spend time with one another! Meredith and Madison are a year younger than Alyssa and they all got along wonderfully.

Ayden Claire did not get along wonderfully with the sand, however. She was NOT getting off the towel nor was she walking in the sand!

Alyssa and Anniston getting some use out of their boogie boards.

We stayed at the Phoenix West. They sold huge snow cones out by the pool. After making the biggest mess imaginable with ours the first day, we decided against getting anymore!

Ayden Claire swimming with Alyssa

Ayden Claire loved the slide! She would go down over and over as long as Alyssa would take her! What a great big sister she has!

We went on a Dolphin Cruise one afternoon. I must admit, I wasn't as excited about it as the kids were and I was skeptical. I figured we'd see a dolphin or two for a minute or two and that would be that. It was actually very entertaining! We saw plenty of dolphins- not just jumping up randomly here and there. The boat was basically making waves for the dolphins to play in and they would swim alongside the boat for the longest time. I wish I'd gotten pictures now, but I think I was just too busy watching them to worry with the camera. It was lots of fun! Ayden Claire wasn't any too thrilled with the mandatory life preserver, though.

The girls enjoying the boat ride. It was hot but felt pretty nice while the boat was moving. So fun!

Of course, what would a beach trip be without a night spent at the Track?

Meredith and Alyssa insisted on riding the bumper boats. Needless to say, they had to dry out a little afterwards.

Ayden Claire loved the swings almost as much as she loved the slide back at the condo! I have a picture somewhere of Alyssa at this exact age on these swings. Wow-time flies!

Sadly, this will probably be the last time she rides the swings. She was really a hair too tall, but he didn't say anything. She looked quite bored and embarrassed for most of the ride. She's ready to move on to bigger and better and faster things.

Could Anniston be any prettier? She was such a sweet sister riding the kiddie rides with Ayden Claire. Usually Alyssa takes on the role of "big sister" but when Anniston does, she's wonderful too! After all, she learned from one of the best big sisters- Alyssa!

At the end of the week, Wes came down and spend a few nights with us at my dad and Jackie's house. We had a great time visiting them and Jay. Again, I didn't get any pictures at their house but we did go take a few beach pictures one day. It was not very successful, but we tried.

Check back soon, as I hope to have some family beach pictures that do turn out posted soon!!!

July 4th

2009-09-03T00:05:00.003-05:00

Because I must have taken the month of July off from blogging. So, here are our patriotic babies.

And, because who doesn't love some $5 Children's Place red, white and blue shirts? We spent the 4th eating and eating and shooting fireworks with our favorite people- our neighbors and eating. Good times, good memories!

Ayden Claire

2009-09-02T23:38:00.008-05:00

Ayden Claire is just along for the ride. She rarely complains. Even when she was spending countless days at the pool before she cared for the pool or countless hours at early morning swim practices nibbling on her lucky charms from a baggie. Seriously, she totally goes with the flow. Good thing, huh?
Here she is on the carousel at the mall one day. It must have been raining out, otherwise we would have been at the Y swimming.
Notice Facebook on the computer screen. I'm sure that had NOTHING to do with her being covered in purple marker.

From head to toe.

I LOVE these sweet little curls...

...these precious dimples....

...and even THIS face!

Trying on Sissy's goggles. "Do I look ready for the swim team?"

I don't even know what to say about this little peek into Ayden Claire's personality Jill captured.

It makes her day when we see an airplane flying over.

.25 cents for 2 feet of sugar!

Squeaking right along....

Anniston

2009-09-02T23:01:00.007-05:00

Anniston's summer wasn't nearly as exciting as Alyssa's but she didn't complain. She's our "homebody." And I don't say that lightly. The kid really loves being at home. She hates having to sit still in the car for any length of time. She really just doesn't like having to be still in general. She watches TV on her head most of the time. Seriously. She is a nut. But, anyway. Back to what she did this summer.
See this adorable little girl with Anniston? That is Natalee. She is about Annistons 5th cousin or so.
She moved to Prattville recently with her brother Noah, mom Cathy and dad Matt. Matt's grandfather and my grandfather were brothers and Wes and I got to know Matt and Cathy before we got married. They were living in Tuscaloosa and we would hang out with them and Matt's younger brother, David. Got the family tree down?
Anniston became instant best friends with Natalee and they spent many days and nights at her house or at ours. She's so sweet and we are so glad to have family nearby!
Natalee turned 8 in June and had a Luau birthday party. Here's Anniston doing the limbo!
Other highlights from Anniston's summer included, but are not limited to, making brownies....

....playing with Ayden Claire while Alyssa was gone.....

....making our own hairwraps after seeing them at the beach for $15 a piece....

....and, in true Anniston fashion, just being Anniston!

I love you girl!

Alyssa Swims and Goes to Camp

2009-08-28T12:07:00.007-05:00

I am SO behind on blogging I don't even know where to begin or how to organize these blogs! I think I'll just go child by child and update that way. Starting with Alyssa!
She swam again this summer for the Grandview Gators. She loves swim team! The practices are EARLY (7:00 am) but she's dedicated. Now, by the end of summer, she was not jumping out of bed quite as quick as in early June, but... She did great this summer. The breast is her favorite stroke and she finally perfected her dive!

Yay. That takes several seconds off your start time so we were excited for her. This was her list of events at the championship swim meet!

Alyssa also went to camp for the first time ever this summer! It was a week long (Sunday thru Friday) and was about 2 hours away! Yikes! She went with some very good friends of ours, Jeremy and Amber. They took a group from their church, Elmore Church of Christ. I think she was a little homesick but it was a good experience. I think she might even want to go back again next year- we'll see!
I think these 2 sisters missed one another! And, for the record, I obviously did not dress Alyssa in this lovely "coordinating" outfit she's seen wearing here. This is what happens by the last day of camp!
Alyssa and Sidney
The girls from Alyssa's cabin performing their skit.

Granny

2009-08-07T16:43:00.000-05:00

My lovely Granny went Home to meet Jesus 3 years ago today, on August 6, 2006. It is so very hard for me to believe. It seems like merely days ago that I sat at her kitchen table while she whipped up biscuits and sausage gravy for me or that she beat me in a mean game of Rummy. What I wouldn't give for a few of those moments with her just once more. If I could call her up today (205-556-1029...I doubt I'll ever forget those digits!) this is what I'd say....

Hey Granny!
How is your day going?
Me?
Well, I've been pretty busy lately. Well, it's just a busy life- but that's life, huh? I Alyssa made muffins this morning. I thought of you and your delicious breakfasts that you were quite famous for. And I thought about how my kids would ask for cereal still, even with eggs, biscuits (HOMEMADE), bacon, sausage, gravy and syrup all set out on the table before them. You would insist they had "real" food- cereal just didn't cut it! Bless their hearts, cereal and muffins is about as good as it gets around here. I know you would scold me and tell me I better cook those babies some eggs!

Actually, Granny, did I mention that I have a new baby? She- yes, that's right, another girl!- isn't really a baby anymore. She's almost 2, which is hard to believe. Even harder for me, is that you didn't get to meet her on Earth. I think you may have kissed her and whispered in her ear to be good for me before she got here though. She is every bit as wonderful as her big sisters. I can't believe I have three daughters, just like you. Maybe God saw something in me like He did you, that He decided to trust me to raise daughters. I am honored if that is the case. I like to think that I have some small portion of your strength and determination. Wes calls this "stubborn", but that's okay too. Stubborn isn't always bad, is it? Anyway, Granny, I would really appreciate if you could help watch over my girls. I know how much you loved Alyssa and Anniston. And Ayden Claire would steal your heart right out of your chest she's so sweet and adorable (but I am a little partial). I can hear you oohing and ahhing over her now...talking about how her big brown eyes remind you of me and how her amazing tan came straight from her daddy.

You would not believe how tall Alyssa is getting and how much her personality is like mine. She is such a sweet little girl with a soft voice and kind heart. She is a wonderful big sister and I just know she would be right beside you cooking in your kitchen if you were here today! Maybe she would know how to make those delicious homemade biscuits by now. She would love to work in your word find books before bed with you and probably would be learning our rules for Rummy. She loves to read and play games and loves school. She probably had the hardest time when you died. She misses you terribly, even now. She has the most memories with you and its hard when you are almost 6 and lose someone special. I am so glad she got to know you though. She is a better kid for having almost 6 years of her Granny. Even though loss is hard, experiencing the love makes it worth it.

Anniston would make your head spin. I can hear you now, "That Anniston. She just makes my head spin," as you shake your head and grin. To be honest, she often times makes my head spin! She is active and bouncy and bubbly but would be your cuddle-bug, bed buddy for sure. And, if you ever needed anything, you could without doubt call Anniston. She has a heart of gold, Granny! She talks about you still, quite often. I am so glad she has memory of her Granny. She was little when you died, but she was loved by you for 2 and a half years and I think she will always remember that love.

My mom is doing great. You would be so proud of her, Granny! She is a wonderful "Nanny" and mom. We don't know what we would do without her. The girls just love her beyond words. I am so thankful that they have a wonderful grandmother like I had!

Wes is great, also. Next month we will celebrate a decade of marriage. Can you believe that? Ten years! I'm sure you thought we were nuts when we got married, Granny. We were young and not very wise (I wouldn't admit that to just anyone!) but I hope that you would be proud of us. We love each other so much, more so even than we did back in 1999. Wes is a wonderful daddy and husband. I know every day how blessed I am to have him. What a great guy! He misses you and his Pop. That was a rough 6 months- first losing you in August after your battle with lung cancer and then Pop dying in January just months later after the same battle. We both looked up to the two of you so much and each loss hit us hard.

Granny, can I just tell you about your aloe vera plant you gave me? It was huge when you gave it to me, but it is still alive and thriving-miraculously! Are you helping me out with it up there? Because I normally kill everything I touch and don't touch, but some how this plant is big and beautiful! I love it. In fact, I should probably go water it...

Remember, Granny, your last summer and going to Hospice? Do you remember us pretty much camping out there to be with you? I sure hope you knew how loved you were those couple of months! You were in so much pain, I hate to even think about the pain we could all see in your eyes, and yet you were still kind and appreciative. I remember you saying "Thank you" to us and to each nurse and visitor for even the smallest act of kindness. You were truly an example to me during that time. Even in the face of death, you showed gratitude- so how can we ever not be grateful, even on a "bad" day? Thank you for that last lesson. Thank you for all the many lessons you taught us without ever "teaching" but by "living" the way you did. We all miss you so much adn think of you often!

It's All About Daddy....

2009-06-21T17:29:00.003-05:00

"Any man can be a father. It takes someone special to be a dad." ~Anonymous

This is one of Wes's favorite quotes. He really finds much truth in it, as do I. It is fairly simple to be a father, being a Daddy takes someone extraordinary! I am so glad my girls are blessed with such a wonderful Daddy! Wes works a job and a half (and has since Alyssa was about 3!) so that I am able to stay with our 3 girls. And he still makes time to be their softball coach and cheer them on along the sidelines. He is beyond special- he is one of a kind! I can only hope and pray that Alyssa, Anniston, and Ayden Claire grow up and each marry a man as generous, kind and loving as their Daddy.

"The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother." ~Henry Ward Beecher
Thank you, Wes, for loving me!

21 Months...and (trying to) holding!

2009-06-15T15:18:00.004-05:00

Ayden Claire is definitely closer to 2 years old than she is to a year now, but I'll keep her 1 as long as I can! I love, love, LOVE, this age. Toddlers are the most fun! She is soaking EVERYthing up like a little sponge. She signs about 10 words or so- mommy, daddy, eat, cookie, please, thank you, bath, all done and a few others. While she can let you know what she needs, she doesn't talk a whole lot. She is definitely trying to say more words with each passing day, though. Every person we pass in Wal-Mart that speaks to her (or those who don't) is probably going to get blown a kiss and told "bye bye". Ayden Claire is by far my most outgoing little girl! She is not the least bit intimidated by strangers (not always a good thing...) and she is super friendly. There is no separation anxiety at all from little Miss Merry Sunshine! Since school got out for summer, we have been spending most of our days by the pool at the Millbrook Y. She was not a fan for about 2 days and now she loves being there and is going down the slide and splashing around like a pro. Have I mentioned that I absolutely love summer in Alabama? Pool days are the best.... Anyway, back to AC. Yes, AC has become a nickname that I even hear Alyssa and Anniston's friends call her! You probably won't hear me call her AC- I love her name, although it is a big name! Ayden Claire. You are just perfect and you complete our little family so perfectly.

Meet Millie

2009-06-12T15:03:00.002-05:00

Have I mentioned our newest addition? This is what happens when the Kelley's go to the Humane Shelter to "just look" at the puppies. She is bigger now but still sweet as ever!

When It Rains, It Pours

2009-06-12T14:54:00.003-05:00

The pictures do not do it justice, but when we are usually in a major drought, Millbrook flooded! Actually, Montgomery was under water also and parts of Wetumpka. It rained and rained and when I woke up this is what our front yard looked like. The local park had water standing up to the top of the picnic tables! The girls softball games were cancelled for several days, but we got dried out relatively quickly!

Popsicles and Sunshine

2009-06-12T14:38:00.003-05:00

How we spent one afternoon before time to pick up Alyssa from school. Ayden Claire loved her popsicle!

Awards Day 2009

2009-06-12T14:07:00.005-05:00

As the school year draws to a close each Spring, the Awards Day ceremonies are being planned. This year was Alyssa's last year at Coosada Elementary- she will go into 3rd grade at the brand spankin' new Airport Road Intermediate School in August. I could not say enough great things about Coosada though- from the open door atmosphere, to the WONDERFUL teachers, and the yummy corn nuggets (my personal fave)- it has been such an outstanding 3 years. Mrs. Hurst was Alyssa's 2nd grade teacher and she was wonderful. Alyssa loved her and learned so much. Second grade was a bit of an adjustment (TESTS!!) but she did excellent! I know Mrs. Hurst prepared her for 3rd grade. The children and their families celebrated Awards Day in the classroom first with brunch (delicious!) and Mrs. Hurst gave out her individual awards. Alyssa received "Most Friendly"; she is such a sweetheart! (I am pretty sure she got some version of this award in Kindergarten and 1st Grade also!) It was great to see all of her classmates get the award that fit them. My favorite was the "Read Your Pants Off" award, given to Doniniquia! :) The more formal ceremony was held in the gym and the principals were present to pass out the awards. Alyssa was recognized for All A's and B's this year. Way to go! She made B's in reading the last 2 nine weeks. She reads excellently but has a little bit of a rough time testing on what she's read....we'll have to work a little harder next year. I was so proud of her though- she is such a great girl and very well rounded. I can't wait to see where she goes in life....as long as I can tag along for a while!

***How stinking cute was Ayden Claire sitting in the desk next to Alyssa like she was a big girl??? So funny!

The Graduate

2009-06-12T13:43:00.006-05:00

Anniston graduated from preschool May 12, complete with reciting her bible verse (Man can not live on bread alone. Luke 4:4) and receiving her "diploma" and some songs in the mix! She went to Coosada Baptist's pre-k program and loved it! It was such a good experience and a great school. She made wonderful friends during her year and a half there and had lots of fun. It is truly one of the best preschool programs I've seen. The love that was shown to her and all the children was amazing and touching. We will dearly miss the people who work there to make it a success. Hopefully in a few years, Ayden Claire will have the same wonderful preschool experience there, too. I thought I would be super sad about graduation, but I was really just so happy for her and the good times she had there. I know she is looking forward to Kindergarten and I know she's ready and I am excited for her. I still have a little bit of a hard time with the fact that she is about to go to big school- it honestly seems like JUST YESTERDAY Wes and I were walking Alyssa into Mr. Hodum's class for her first day. My how time flies! I say that often, but the more time that passes the more I realize just how quickly it does! Congrats to our little graduate, Anniston!

"Bookmark"

2009-06-05T12:06:00.004-05:00

Ayden Claire was born with a hemangioma on her upper right chest. We just call it her "birthmark" because that's easier to say than hemangioma. Yesterday, as I was getting her dressed Anniston came in the room and pointed to it and said, "I see her bookmark!"
"What?" I asked, giggling to myself because I knew what she meant.
"Her bookmark."
Too funny. Life with kids...its never dull!

Deep Thoughts From Anniston

2009-05-22T07:35:00.004-05:00

"I've never seen Daddy cry before. What does he cry like?" ~She asked this while at Home Depot.

"Mommy, when I am big, if I go to jail, will you miss me?" ~Sitting at our favorite Mexican restaurant eating chips and dip.

Mother's Day 2009

2009-05-12T10:29:00.005-05:00

"Of all the rights of women, the greatest is to be a mother." Lin Yutang

Of everything I've ever done or could possibly ever do or accomplish, being a mom to Alyssa, Anniston and Ayden Claire will always be what makes me most proud. Sunday was Mother's Day and it was truly a great day. My sweet daughters scrambled eggs for me and had me cards on my plate when I came to eat. We tried a different church in Montgomery and I think we will go back. Afterwards, we went to Arby's for lunch. We had gone to eat at Fish House in Bass Pro Shops on Saturday with Wes's mom and grandmother so we decided to make it simple on Mother's Day and I LOVE beef and cheddars. I'm talking, I could roll around in them! So, not much else could make me happier than getting some Arby's on Mother's Day. Besides world peace. Anyway, then we did a little shopping in Montgomery. Later, my sister and I took our mom out to dinner. We didn't know where we were going but wound up at Fish House! It was so yummy and it was nice to have a little time with Jill and my mom without the kiddos needing potty breaks and refills! It was a wonderful day! I love being a mom. I recently read the quote, "the days can be long, but the years fly by" and I couldn't agree with it more. Some days, I don't know if I'll make it to bedtime. But every time I blink it seems someone is having another birthday! I struggle a lot of days with myself. I want so badly to be a "good" mom to my girls. Some days I feel successful and others I feel like a failure. I think most moms are probably way to hard on themselves, like I know I am. I am really trying to take a step away from the idea of what a "good" mom is or does, and just enjoy my kids for who they are. I am so aware of how quickly they are growing and how little time we really have to impress upon them the things we hope to. I hope all the mothers, mothers to be, patiently waiting to be mothers, grandmothers and mother figures had a wonderful Mother's Day!

Dearest daughters- Alyssa, Anniston and Ayden Claire,
I wanted to take the time on Mother's day and tell you how extremely awesome it is to get to be you three girls mother. There is not a job in the world I would rather be doing. I know everyday how incredibly blessed I am to have been given the role of a Mom. We were blessed so quickly once and prayed and waited for a baby twice. Alyssa, you made me a mom and that day is forever etched in my heart and soul. Anniston, you showed me that you don't split your love when you have a second child; it just doubles. Ayden Claire, three is never a crowd; you complete our family. My love is immeasurable and unconditional for you all. Please know that there was never anything I wanted more in this life than to be a Mommy- and I got even more than that because I got to be your Mommy! I love you all so much my heart could just burst.
Love,
Mommy

Short Cuts

2009-05-12T09:24:00.003-05:00

Alyssa recently got 9 inches cut from her hair! It was so long, but a little stringy. We made an appointment with Mrs. Connie, our favorite hair stylist, for a trim. But she decided to go ahead and get it cut short. We sent the hair to Pantene's Beautiful Lengths. They make real human hair wigs with the hair sent to them and then donate them to the American Cancer Society to distribute at no charge. Which I think is awesome, by the way! They take a minimum of 8 inches so she had just enough. I think she looks so much older with her new 'do- and it's cool for summertime!

Undefeated

2009-04-24T13:38:00.002-05:00

Last night Anniston's team, the Barber Dolls, went for their 6th straight win. A little over halfway through the game her coach made a decision to forfeit the game and called our girls off the field. A decision I have never seen made and this is our 5th season to play ball. I am so proud of his decision!
What began as just an ordinary 6 and under girls softball game went badly wrong in the 2nd or 3rd inning- I'm not sure which. The coaches for the other team felt a wrong call was made and became EXTREMELY hostile and obscene to a point that Coach Brian didn't feel it was a safe or positive atmosphere to play in. I have never seen anything like it. I'm not sure what, but I'm sure some type of action will be taken against the 3 coaches who were swearing loudly and continually. The other team was VERY excited that we forfeited and they "won"- although, I'm not sure you can consider it a "win". I know our coach behaved in a respectful and classy manner and I was proud to be a parent to a child on his team. I think our team still deserves the title of "Undefeated".

Visions

2009-04-24T13:33:00.003-05:00

I had a vision of our house one day in the not so far off future. It was spotless, tidy, and quiet. Nothing like this:

It saddened me. I really don't look forward to that spotless, tidy, quiet house. I kind of like it the way it is.

Ahhhh, Spring

2009-04-24T13:23:00.002-05:00

Spring has arrived in full force and we couldn't be happier about it here at the Kelley household! I love warm weather and being outside enjoying it with the kids. Spring is probably my favorite season. I suffer through the Winter counting down the days until warm weather. We practically live in our driveway when its warm. The kids play with all their neighborhood friends and ride bikes, jeeps, scooters and anything else with wheels! We could get rid of almost every toy inside during the Spring and Summer seasons- they all seem to get quite dusty and forgotten. Now we are looking forward to pool weather!

Sisterhood

2009-04-19T22:57:00.002-05:00

This is what Sisters are all about!

Love Letters

2009-04-18T23:02:00.003-05:00

Ethan is the 5 year old boy who lives across the street from us. He's a cutie. He's sweet- well, as sweet as boys can be. And he totally loves Anniston. Here's proof-

We found this in our mailbox when we got home from a softball game Thursday night. I think Ethan dictated to his mom- since he's 5 and all and probably isn't proficiently writing love letters himself yet. And by Hummer, he means his bright yellow Power Wheels Hummer. Sweet.

Fishing Friday

2009-04-18T22:59:00.001-05:00

Anniston's preschool holds an annual Fishing Day each April at the Wildlife Federation. They have an entire catfish pond just for our preschool. It's beautiful and all the kids bring their parents, grandparents, siblings, neighbors- you get the picture, anyone is welcome. And we fish. With hot dogs. Yes, that's right- slices of wienies. And we catch fish. Well, we did last year. Wes and I totally caught the most fish last year and I caught the biggest- not that anyone was keeping track...
So, I went into this years big fish certain I would have no problem whatsoever reeling in a monster catfish on my daughter's Princess pole. Wrong! People all around us were catching fish left and right. We were totally LOSING (again, not that ANYONE was keeping count...)! We were LOSERS! So, we did what anyone else in our shoes would do- we packed up and relocated ourselves closer to the people who were catching fish! Anniston's friend Jerrica was fishing with her parents beside us. They were ahead by like 47 fish (who was counting?). As Jerrica's dad, Jeremy, felt the 48th take his bait and hook himself to the end of his pole, he coyly said, "Hey Wes, you wanna reel him in?"
So, I did what any ~~super competitive~~ mom would do and ~~yanked~~ gently removed the pole from my 5 year olds hands and took matters into my own! We had fish to catch and I couldn't let these people leave before we caught some.
While everyone else was loosing interest and packing up, I was on a mission to catch fish. Did I mention it was catch and release? Well, it was. By this point I think Wes had caught one and shortly thereafter got his 2nd and final fish for the day. Just as Jerrica's family had packed up and were saying their goodbyes and good lucks to us, I felt it. That beloved fish on the hook feeling at the end of my line.
"Oh, no you don't!" I said to them. "You aren't leaving until you see me reel this fish in!"
All in all, it was a great fishing trip! Aside from my ~~crazy ridiculous~~ slight competitive streak- we had a nice, relaxing morning around the water on a beautiful spring day.
Oh, and Anniston caught the last fish of the day all by herself.
She said, "Hey Daddy, I caught you a fish...." totally nonchalantly. She's not a bit competitive!

Waiting patiently...trying not to notice everyone else reeling them in or act bothered by that fact.

"Here Daddy, maybe you should use this bait."

One of Daddy's 2 fish- we were thrilled!

"Hey Anniston, my dad just caught ANOTHER fish!" (Na-na-na-na, boo-boo)

The bobber that just wouldn't bob.

"My mommy is the best fisherwoman!"

Anniston's "prize" fish. She was super proud!

Camp Boring Chandler

2009-04-18T22:28:00.006-05:00

Alyssa's 2nd grade class went on a field trip Thursday to a place called Camp Chandler. It's a camp owned by the YMCA and is about 5 or 10 miles north of Wetumpka. It was a blast- if you consider a short nature walk, a discussion on the senses animals use in the woods, a quick archery lesson and a bird walk a blast. Actually, the archery part was pretty fun. So was the cafeteria style lunch we got. Chicken, macaroni and cheese, sweet peas and fruit cocktail on those green plastic trays. Oh, and Kool-Aid. Orange Kool-Aid. The last time I had Kool-Aid, it was probably ~~spiked~~ when I was learning to ride a bike without training wheels.
Oh, well. It was a day away from the classroom for the kids and I got to see my sweet Alyssa interact with her classmates. Very interesting. I learned a lot about her on that field trip. She's even more like me than I knew. She's friendly and likable but still a bit of a loner. She's a little more reserved. I watched as the kids ran wild around in circles in this big open yard. She found a nice quiet little bench and struck up a conversation with the kid next to her. Alyssa is a tough one to figure out at times. Just when I think I have figured her out, she throws me for a loop. But I was so glad to get this small glimpse into her 2nd grade world. I love that girl!

A lesson on onion weed, maybe? And I think the guide is eating it....?

Sweet Alyssa. Don't you just love that big bear cub on her hot maroon field trip shirt? Stylish. Rock on.

Sarah and Alyssa

A very informative and interesting lesson on the difference between "prey" and "predator"

The kids playing a Marco/Polo type game called Bat/Moth. Looked like fun!

Sara Grace, Carley, Sarah and Alyssa waiting to shoot the bow and arrow.

The best part of the trip!

Twas the Night Before Easter...

2009-04-11T23:34:00.003-05:00

....and all through the house,
not a creature was stirring (well, except Mommy because she was blogging and waiting on the Easter bunny),
not even a mouse!

The real eggs were all dyed,
the plastic ones: filled and ready to hide!

The dresses were ironed and shoes were bought,
the kids were snoring and no longer faught!

The locks were curled and ready for morn,
to celebrate that Jesus died and rose 33 years after he was born!

Practice Makes Perfect

2009-04-11T23:15:00.004-05:00

...and I think she needs a little more practice!

Since softball season has started Alyssa has been practicing pitching. She has never worked so hard on anything. She absolutely loves to pitch in the backyard to her dad. I even took her to a pitching lesson one afternoon and she's dying to go back- it just isn't cheap so for now she's pitching to her dad. Well, and the brick wall. Or she was- until she missed the wall and hit the window. I was sitting in the driveway when it happened. The look on her face said it all. I knew it was a complete accident. She had not intentionally hit the window. So what could I say? Scream? Yell? I laughed. Because guess what? Either way the window was still broken. I didn't want to see her "broken" too. She still pitches to her dad, no longer to the brick wall though.

In The Motherhood

2009-04-06T17:44:00.004-05:00

If you missed today's Oprah, it was titled "In the Motherhood" and had moms spilling their "dirty little secrets." As a mom, I found it a relief to see and hear other moms who don't always do everything perfectly! I absolutely LOVE my kids but there are totally moments when you just do what you have to do to survive the day! So, I thought every now and then I'd share a "dirty little secret" of my own. Here goes!

Dirty Little Secret #1-

I have used my daughters dress/shirt to wipe their snotty noses on occasion if I don't have a tissue readily available. Gross, I know. But which is worse- snot running in her mouth or snot on the hem of her (probably already dirty) dress?

Dirty Little Secret #2-

I've let my babies cry it out in their crib...without feeling too guilty.

That's my confessional for now- more to come. In the mean time, please don't call Child Protective Services!

Disney 2009

2009-04-05T07:48:00.013-05:00

We recently spent 8 days and nights at Port Orleans resort at Disney World. It was the first vacation just the 5 of us have taken. We celebrated Anniston's 5th birthday there- it was great!

My mom, Nanny, came down on Anniston's actual birthday and spent a couple of nights with us. She got to go to Magic Kingdom for the first time ever! I think we wore her out trying to squeeze all the classic Disney stuff into one day! We had a wonderful time and we'll be ready to go again in about 4 or 5 years when we rest up from this trip!

Alyssa standing outside Planet Hollywood, where we ate after our first day spent at Magic Kingdom.

We had breakfast with the princesses at Epcot on day 2! It was wonderful and Anniston was in awe!

Gotta love Mickey and Minnie!

The family at Epcot!

Ayden Claire hanging out by the pool while her sisters were off swimming.

We had a blast at Hollywood Studios- formerly MGM- where we rode one of my favorites, the Tower of Terror! Anniston rode it with Alyssa and me and Alyssa rode the Aerosmith Rock N Roller Coaster and loved it. That girl is fearless!

We finally found the hair wrap station. Not sure how they are going to look in our Easter pictures!

We found Prince Charming- who needs Prince Charming? We have Daddy!

We had dinner with Cinderella and her stepmother and stepsisters at the Grand Floridian resort. It was delicious and so fun eating with the characters.

Expedition Everest at Animal Kingdom. It was one of our favorite roller coasters!

Some play time in Dino Land.

Back at Magic Kingdom the girls got to design their own "Ears".

"It's A Small World"

The girls flying on Dumbo.

You haven't been to Disney until you've ridden the teacups!

Is she the cutest 5 year old or what?

The fireworks at Disney are the BEST!

Anniston with her birthday Minnie! Today she is the big "5"!

We rode "Pirates of the Carribean" quite a few times- it's one of Daddy's favorites.

Anniston had a birthday dinner at Tony's- the restaraunt from Lady and the Tramp.

Disney World can be very tiring! They fell asleep on the bus headed back to our room for the night.

Goodbye, Disney!

Swiper, No Swiping

2009-04-03T13:16:00.003-05:00

Today I had to run into a store to pick up Ayden Claire's Easter dress that was being monogrammed. It's one of those boutiue-y type stores where t-shirts are $30 and kids knit outfits are $60. But they monogram- quickly. And I was low on time. So, Ayden Claire and I get the dress and head out the door. Ayden Claire is ahead of me squeaking right along in her shoes. About 6 or 7 steps out the door I realize she has a shoe in each of her hands! Flip flops to be exact, but not just ANY pair of flip flops. She's got huge, bulky, leather, wedged, EXPENSIVE flip flops and she's excited about having them! Of course, we turned back and took them back in and set them back on the floor where she had swiped them from. What can I say? That girl loves shoes!

Finally Friday

2009-04-03T10:46:00.002-05:00

It's been a LONG week and I am past being ready for some sunshine and dry weather! Today's forecast along with tomorrows look promising, thank God. This week couldn't have drug by any slower if it tried. Now that I can get out and about without a boat I've got to finish getting ready for Easter. We have dresses but the Bunny needs to do some work on the baskets.
The highlight of my week was registering Anniston for Kindergarten. We got there extra early to get in line and I was the first person in line for Kindergarten requests. The lady in front of me was requesting for 1st grade. After much thought, I decided to go with Mr. Hodum once again. The man is an amazing teacher and tons of fun. And Alyssa did actually learn to read when she had him despite the condition of his room. I have never seen so much STUFF in a classroom. He is really unique and the kids just love him. Hopefully she will have a good class and enjoy kindergarten as much as Alyssa. I'm excited for her because I know it's time and school will be good for her. I am sure I'll be a little sad sending her off next year. But I know she will be in excellent hands. Alyssa's three years at Coosada have been nothing but wonderful. They have loved her and she has learned so much and has had superb teachers. I can't sing their praises enough- we love CES!
Alyssa had her first softball game last Saturday and played catcher and outfield. She did great! She's really working hard on her pitching- she wants to pitch so bad! She went to a lesson Tuesday after school and worked one on one with a girl who showed her some warm ups and techniques. My neighbor who coaches a high school team said he would work with her, too. She loves practicing pitching with her dad. It's all she does from the time she gets home and finishes homework until supper. So we'll see. I'll let you know when she gets to pitch in an actual game and how it goes.
Ayden Claire is (for the most part) sweet as ever. She talking much more! Hopefully her latest ear infections are gone since we finished the antibiotic. She's no longer on strike from eating, so that's good! She's such a little sweetie. I could just eat her up! I am constantly kissing her chubby cheeks- they are my favorite and since she's still little, she doesn't object to all the smooches!
Well, that's our life for the moment. Living at the ballpark and trying not to drown in all this rain. I still plan to blog about our Disney vacation- soon, I hope!

Dannit and Broken Pinkie

2009-03-31T18:31:00.004-05:00

I had planned to blog about our Disney trip but I had to write about a couple of funny incidents from my day- both involving our blond, witty, stubborn, second child Anniston. First, we were on our way to run errands and I decided to swing in Walgreen's and check the Red Box for Seven Pounds. (The Red Box is a big Coke machine that dispenses movies and I think its one of the greatest concepts to date and Seven Pounds is a Will Smith movie that was released today and I really like Will Smith movies. Lets face it, he was basically the only actor in I Am Legend and who can hold a two hour movie by themselves? Besides Tom Hanks?) Anyway, Anniston asked if she and Alyssa could watch the movie. I told her no, it wasn't a movie kids could watch.

"Why? Is it scary?" she asked.

"No, not really...I don't think." Knowing she would need a REASON why she couldn't watch it I added, "I think it has bad words in it."

"Well, I don't say bad words. But my friend E. does." Ratting out her friend....

"Oh...." I figure she is referring to the words "Stupid", or even worse..."Butt" or (gasp) "Fart"- all BAD words at our house...

"He does say bad words. When he messes up his pictures he says bad words." She was throwing him under the bus...

"Well, what does he say? Stupid?" I'm kind of curious now. Obviously she is in awe that he is cool enough to say "bad" words....

"No! He says a BAD word..."

"Well, I tell you what...you come whisper in my ear what he says but we won't say it ever again, okay?" Because I really want to know what this WORD is!!!

Anniston hesitated long enough to make sure I was seriously going to ALLOW her to say a bad word. Then she whispered in my ear, "When he messes up his picture he says 'Dannit'."

"Oh!" Not exactly the word "butt" I was expecting! "Well, that's not nice to say so lets make sure we don't use that word...."

She assured me she wouldn't. And I believe her. For now. There will come a day I'm sure where my innocent Anniston will let a real "bad" word fly. I may or may not be close enough to hear it. She's human. I just hope it isn't in Sunday School...

I think next time I walk into a door facing and almost break 3 toes I'll scream, "Dannit" just for the fun of it!

And now on to more serious business-and please don't report me for this blog or I'll delete it so it can't be used against me. Anniston has become- well, to put it bluntly- quite bratty since turning 5. I don't know if she got too much royal treatment in Disney or if she feels more important now that she is a year older. Either way, she's been extremely demanding and impatient lately. So I have been doing what any good Southern mother would do- spanking her bottom (yes, that's "bottom", not "butt"). Well, today when she went into complete meltdown mode because whatever she wanted didn't happen immediately, I went to swat her backside with my palm. She put her hand in protective mode on her rear with her fingers pointing out so when I spanked her I hit one of her fingers first. Of course it was the pinkie. I knew when it happened it probably hurt (now, let me clarify, I wasn't spanking her hard at ALL, just getting her attention and trying to halt the whiny fit she was on the verge of having). She stopped the tantrum but the tears turned real and she said "You hurt my finger." Yes, crap Mom- that's how I felt. I looked at it and it looked a little red. I didn't let her see my guilt though. I said, "Well, if you're going to throw a fit you are going to be spanked and I wouldn't but my hand back there if I were you." Although I really wanted to beg for her forgiveness. What kind of mom breaks their kids fingers?! I convinced myself it was crooked and broken and they would of course take all my children once we took Anniston to the ER and told them how her pinkie was broken. About that time Wes walked in and gave it a moments glance and said, "It's fine." Whew! We get to keep them another day! Then our friends from Georgia got here and the kids were running around playing and Anniston fell and hurt her fingers. I hope it isn't broken....

Loss

2009-03-30T09:19:00.002-05:00

As I am sitting here, a family from Anniston's preschool is making arrangements to bury their 19 month old son, Cooper. My heart aches for his parents and his big sister. Please say a prayer for this family. Cooper had been sick for a while but I don't think you could ever prepare for the loss of your child. Pray they are comforted somehow through this and pray for little Kennedy as she says goodbye to her brother. And then go hug your children super-dooper tight like I'm going to!

Priceless

2009-03-06T12:40:00.004-06:00

8 nights/8 days Disney World vacation package for family of 5- $2000
4 new tires and an oil change to get us to Orlando safely- $664.85
Seeing 3 girls faces as they enter the Magic Kingdom- Priceless

I'll post pictures when we get home! Until then, we'll be at the most magical place on Earth celebrating Annistons 5th birthday- Walt Disney World!

(Little) Lady in Red

2009-03-06T12:19:00.004-06:00

I was at Belk one day and found the most beautiful red nightgown on a clearance rack for Anniston. It just screamed out "Anniston"! However, she has a pajama drawer that nearly explodes every time its opened already and I really knew we didn't need another gown, even though it was originally $42 (I know, who in their right mind buys a $42 gown for a 4 year old???) and was marked down to $12. I'm pretty cheap- thrifty, tightwad, budget wise- and I reluctantly put the gown back and moved on. Fast forward a few weeks and I'm browsing through Belk's clearance racks once again. Everything is an ADDITIONAL 50% off. And then I see Anniston's red gown. Because now it's only $6 and that I will do. I knew she'd be excited but I had no idea. She was wearing it by 3:00 pm the day I gave it to her and we had trouble getting her out of it the next day. She absolutely LOVES her red gown. She'll put it on and say, "I love my new gown, Mommy." Maybe it would have been worth the original price of $42 after all. It makes her feel beautiful and special and loved and girly. She twirls in it and pauses in front of mirrors or glass doors to catch glimpses of herself in her red gown. I'm afraid she is going to be a little "high maintenance" and feel for her future husband! :) But, that's okay, too. She appreciates the "beautiful" things in life. Maybe we all need a red nightgown...

Snow Day

2009-03-02T14:11:00.007-06:00

For the second time in Alyssa's life and the first time for Anniston and Ayden Claire, it snowed at our house! The girls wanted to see snow last year so bad- we planned a Gatlinburg trip and it was supposed to snow the weekend we were there. We were stoked! Our first stop in Gatlinburg was to Wal-Mart for sleds because we were ready for snow. We woke up Saturday morning and Wes said, "Hey sweetie, guess where the snow went? Montgomery, Alabama." No snow in Gatlinburg, nope our neighbors were out playing and building snowmen back in Millbrook though! So, our last stop in Gatlinburg was Wal-Mart to return the unused sleds- me and 211 other people getting refunds before leaving town. But this year, we were home to play in our snow! And play we did. We had a blast- a freezing cold blast. I would dare say we almost had 4 inches in spots. It was gone as quickly as it came- it melted away by 3:00 or 4:00 and it should be back up to 70 Thursday. Thank God. I enjoyed a few hours of it but thats really all I need every few years. I'll take Spring now, please.

I am 30!

2009-03-02T12:21:00.009-06:00

I'm also a little bit behind...maybe that's due to the fact I am now 30! Turning 30, honestly, did not really bother me like I thought it may. I had some of the best events of my life happen in my 20's- I married my soul mate and best friend and together we had 3 healthy beautiful children. What more could I ask for and how could I complain about turning 30? I once heard the saying, "Having birthdays beats the alternative." I couldn't agree more! I'm so thankful for every day much less year I get to raise my daughters and watch them grow. Now that doesn't mean I don't wish I had a few less wrinkles or flab- but that's a very small price I'm willing to pay!
We celebrated my birthday the Saturday before. Kendra, David, Jill and Josh came down that morning and we spent the day doing fun girly stuff. A little shopping, McAlister's (which I used to love but the one in Prattville is absolutely horrible and I'll never go back!), and we went to Palm Beach Tan and got our spray tans on- us girls of course, the guys had the kids!

We all along with my mom went to eat dinner at Beef O'Brady's and then the adults had planned to meet some friends at Mulligan's- an "older", "mature", 80's type bar. Little did I know that my sisters had rented a LIMO to take us there and bring us home! I was shocked! Talk about arriving in style...

We let Alyssa and Anniston go for a ride through the neighborhood with us and that made their night! They loved it! Then we headed to Mulligan's where a group of our friends were.

We sat and talked (yelled) over the music and had a little (lot) to drink. I had some Rum and Diet Coke which led me to believe I could dance and I danced the night away! It was a lot of fun!

So, overall turning 30 was quite fun and I recommend everyone do it at least once. Thanks to my husband and sisters and brothers in law and mom and friends for helping me celebrate 30 wonderful years of life! I love you all!

"Be grateful to have been given one more day, let alone one more year. Remember to dance in your nightgown, sing in the shower, ride a bike, fly a kite, and take an occasional "wind bath" in your bare skin. Give those you love big kisses, huge hugs, and the words "I love you" often and always. Nurture your body rather than starve your soul with fad dieting. Spend time with the old and the weary to better appreciate your life. On your birthday, call your mother and father wherever they are to thank them for all they have done for you, even if you think they haven't done enough. Remember that you are not guaranteed tomorrow and that today is as good as it gets. Thank God for every "thing", every "day", every moment."

Bad Children

2009-02-27T20:50:00.003-06:00

While watching the begining of Supernanny tonight, Anniston was obvisouly astounded by the unruly/wild/horrible children! She said, and I quote, "Those are bad bad children- more than us!" Too funny! I'll honestly tell you my kids have their moments but they aren't in need of Supernanny- yet. But the tween years are right around the corner...

Ditch Doctor Wes Doesn't Do Puke

2009-02-16T14:53:00.003-06:00

My husband told me last night on the phone that he "admired" me. Not because I found cancer's cure or wrote a bestseller or entrepreneured a big business. Because I'd cleaned up more puke than anyone should have to ever clean up the past week. Wow- and he "admired" that! I mean, that's definitely a pretty low job on the totem pole...maybe right above or below scrubbing the toilets at a fast food joint or gas station. Probably right there with one another. You see, he is a Ditch Doctor- a term he used the other night to describe what he does. He responds to emergency calls and helps bring people back from (almost) dead and keeps them alive until delivering them to a waiting doctor. He has seen more than I care to imagine- death, wrecks, mangled and broken bodies, open wounds, heart attacks, seizures, and I'm sure he could give you more details. Details I do not care to hear or think about at all! He flies with the worst of the worst patients on LifeFlight and puts himself at risk to get them where they need to be- quickly. I think all the admiration falls on him. But he appreciates (and even admires!) the fact that I stay home and run the daily household business which includes our 3 girls and whatever comes with that. Which this past week included puke. Lots of puke. And puke is one thing he "just can't handle". Go figure....

Hell Week

2009-02-15T23:16:00.004-06:00

Yes, thats what I would refer to the past 6 days (and counting...) as. It all started Tuesday morning when I went in to get Miss Merry Sunshine- aka Ayden Claire. Upon opening the door of her bedroom the stench of vomit hit me. She had thrown up in the night and it was on everything- baby dolls, blankets, sheet, bumper, Ayden Claire and her pajamas. It was your worst nightmare. Then Anniston got it next, throwing up at 1:00 am on our freshly changed sheets forcing us to sleep on the couches the rest of the night. By Thursday I thought Ayden Claire was well and good to go then on our way home from picking up Alyssa she began throwing up again in her carseat. It was again your worst nightmare. I had to completely disassemble the entire car seat down to the buckles (which had to be washed in the dishwasher) and the cover (which had to be washed in the washing machine). Even afterwards the Expedition still reeked of vomit. So I Febreezed and then it smelled like Febreeze scented vomit. We almost made it through the weekend vomit free until Sunday afternoon when Alyssa was getting ready for a birthday party and started throwing up- on my bedroom carpet. Her and Anniston spent almost the entire day on opposite ends of the couch. We've gone through tons of Clorox spray and wipes. Hopefully Annistons fever will break soon and Alyssa will be able to hold something down. On a happy note, Ayden Claire has fully recovered and is great!

Where it all began...sweet little Ayden Claire feeling great now!

My Valentine

2009-02-15T22:41:00.002-06:00

Wes and I enjoyed the luxury of a date- a for real, no expense spared date! And on Valentine's night! We totally lucked up. Did I mention it was just the 2 of us- no kiddos? Not that we don't love spending time with them but a date without them is so nice sometimes! I fall in love with my wonderful husband...and I have to time to remember how stinking sexy he is! ;) So many thanks to Jill who drove from Birmingham and my Mom who worked all day and then came over to help watch our brood. We had a wonderful meal at Olive Garden and enjoyed walking around Books A Million and Petsmart and then stopped by Mulligans for a nightcap on the way home. I love my Valentine and hope one day my girls have "Valentines" as great as their Daddy!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T10:08:00.003-06:00

Sending lots of love and kisses on Valentine's!
Love,
The Kelleys

Anniston's Valentine

2009-02-13T10:55:00.003-06:00

Anniston's preschool class walked to the Post Office on Wednesday and bought stamps and mailed special Valentines to their parents. We got ours yesterday.

"Happy Valentines Day From...."

"Thumbbody special
Love
Anniston"

The heart is made with her thumb prints. How sweet!

A.C.

2009-02-11T23:16:00.003-06:00

This is one of my favorite faces in the whole world! She's been sick the past couple of days and boy have I missed this smile. Everything is right with the world when I see this girl! I love you, Ayden Claire!

"I Don't Need Your Rocking Chair"

2009-02-11T22:44:00.007-06:00

I never rocked my babies. Gasp. I know. What kind of mother am I? The kind the didn't rock my babies. Now, I'm all for rocking babies, especially other peoples babies. I am selfish though. I stayed home with them all day and nursed them all day and by bedtime I wanted to put them to bed and not have to rock them for however long people rock babies. It hit me that I wasn't a "rocker" today as I tucked Ayden Claire in for her nap. She's so good it probably should be a sin to even tell you how easy it is to tuck her in.
Step 1- Turn her sound machine on and walk towards her bed while holding her.
Step 2- Catch her as she tries to throw herself into the baby bed. Steal a hug and kiss.
Step 3- Lay her down on her pillow and cover her up.
Step 4- Tell her "Good night"
Seriously. That's it. And not a peep until she wakes up. Same steps at bedtime too. Alyssa was about that easy. Anniston- not anywhere near that easy. She would scream for at least 10 minutes before she would lay down and go to sleep. She's always been a little strong willed. Or maybe she just wanted to be rocked.
Although I'm not a rocker, I am whole-heartily, definitely, beyond a shadow of a doubt, without question a "cuddler". I cuddle my kids all day any chance I get. I love to hold them and kiss their cheeks and stroke their hair. "Cuddling" is one of our family's favorite past times. Alyssa and Anniston will even say, "I want to cuddle with you, Mommy (or Daddy)." My love language is definitely "touch". I guess I know they are only "cuddle-able" for so long and I know I will miss just getting to hold them. Nothing brightens my day more than a hug from one of my girls- or their daddy. So, I apologize now, girls, for not rocking you as babies. I hope you will remember all the hugs and leg rubs you got as little girls though and I hope you remember the love you felt while I held you. I hope that you felt safe and unconditionally loved...and I hope you know that I was probably trying to hold onto whatever age/stage you were at that time. If you would ever like me to make up the rocking thing to you though, I'd be glad to.

The Curls Keep Coming

2009-02-10T21:10:00.002-06:00

Alyssa and Anniston's new favorite thing is to get their hair rolled before bed. Maybe its a desperate attempt to stay up later, I don't know. Either way, its really cute the next day and almost worth the time it takes to roll Alyssa's long hair and Anniston's SUPER fine hair (which is next to impossible!). Here they are!

Happy Birthday, Sista!

2009-02-10T20:48:00.005-06:00

Saturday my baby sister turned 23- although for some reason I, at first, thought she was turning 22! I guess I am subconsciously not wanting her to be 23 because that would mean I am turning 30 in a couple of weeks.... We went to our neighbor and Anniston's best friends 4th birthday party first and then headed to Birmingham to celebrate with Jill. We met them at the Galleria and then went back to Jill and Josh's apartment before going to eat at their fave Mexican restaurant. It was yummy and we had such a good time. Even though Jill is not a big sweet eater, we picked her up a cookie cake and went back to sing and have a slice of cookie. We left about 10:00 that night and on our way back I called to tell her goodnight and wish her one last "Happy birthday" but Kendra said she was already asleep! I guess she's getting old!

Sponge Fun

2009-02-05T12:12:00.003-06:00

Hold on to your socks...Alyssa requested that I sponge roll her hair a few nights ago! Shocker. I did and it was so cute- even when I got her from school that afternoon her hair still had some curl left. She wanted to do it again last night so we did and this time I got a picture!

Why I Should Have Stopped At Hardees

2009-02-04T09:09:00.003-06:00

I am not a breakfast person but this morning I was especially hungry and craving a Bacon, Egg & Cheese biscuit. I debated whether to swing in Hardees drive thru right up unto the point I saw the line and how long it was. I knew I had about 4 pieces of bread left on the edge of beginning to mold and it would be more frugal to go home and do something with that. So cheese toast it was- or was supposed to be. Here's our breakfast...if you want to come over we'll share!

A Glimpse Of Heaven

2009-02-03T12:02:00.005-06:00

Ayden Claire slept in this morning and finally I went to wake her up because it was past 9:00. She didn't immediately wake up so I went and got the camera and got a couple of pictures of my precious sleeping baby!

"Utterly"...Strange Sight

2009-02-01T13:41:00.003-06:00

Friday morning I dropped Anniston off at Preschool like usual and then headed to Wal-Mart for my usual Friday morning grocery run. I was driving along the little two lane road like I usually do when I saw something completely out of the usual- a cow was standing on the side of the road! It was in front of an old house that had burned down and was just standing there eating grass not 6 feet from the road. I pulled over to check my eyes and make sure I wasn't going crazy! But there, right across from where I had pulled my car off the road, was this huge cow obviously out of place with cars whizzing by it. A few slowed down to gawk quickly but not wanting to hold up traffic moved on. No one ever stopped though. I just couldn't believe no one thought this was a matter that might need to be tended to besides me! I called Wes who had his dispatcher radio someone in Millbrook and let them know a cow was on the side of the road- they got quite a laugh about this I might add! Finally, the owner pulled up in a minivan and said the cow belonged to him and he would get him back home. I'm not sure how the cow wound up where he did or if he made it back home but it was an interesting way to start the day. When I got back home Wes, being the funny man that he is, had sent me this email:

Ma'am,

Tank u fer makin sure i gots back into my pasture its nice getin to go tri sum grass on tha uther side of da fince i hop u wutn afinded bout me poopin in frunt of ya dat new grass upset my tummi i was so happy to c uncle jebs van i ran fer joy culdnt remember how to git bak inta my yard pleaz takmy pictur as a sign of my tanks

you brought a smil to ma fac luv,

da cow u watchd dis mornin

Which of course cracked me up! But I told him I think the cow would have said "UTTER side of the fence"- ha ha!

18 Wieners?

2009-02-01T13:30:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was the last day of hunting season and being the good wife I am, I loaded up with Wes and all three girls and headed to my dads hunting camp 2 hours away at 3 am. (I told you I was a good wife!) I'll post about hunting season and the girls first experiences at the deer processor later! But on our way home, we detoured to go pick up some deer meat that we thought was ready in Demopolis. Well, it wasn't ready and we were in Demopolis and hungry. The McDonald's was terrifying in all sorts of ways and the cleanest thing we saw was a Jacks so we headed there. Then I spotted a Guthrie's and suggested that instead. Everyone was game for chicken and fries so we all agreed and whipped in. We were sitting at our little booth finishing up when that old song- maybe by the group Alabama, I'm not sure?- "18 Wheeler" came on. You know the one..."roll on highway, roll on 18 wheeler til I get back home...." or something along those lines. I could tell Alyssa was listening to it and when it went off she got this funny/curious look on her sleepy little face. She giggled and said, "That song was funny. It kept saying 18 wieners." We, of course busted into laughter at her! Then I tried to convince her that they weren't saying "Wieners" but she wasn't believing me! She just knew she'd heard correctly, and besides, a song about 18 Wieners is way funnier that one about wheels, right?

Teeth

2009-01-30T09:49:00.011-06:00

I am NOT a teeth person. What does that mean, you may ask. Well, I get extremely troubled by the thought of bleeding gums or loose teeth or- the worst- getting teeth knocked out or chipped. I used to have NIGHTMARES about my teeth falling out. I don't mean once in a blue moon- I mean EVERY night to the point I would dread falling asleep because I knew my teeth were going to fall out in my "dream world". I've always been a "grinder" while I sleep and I would dream and clench my jaws and grind away and dream the only way to unlock my jaws was for my teeth to fall out- which they would do. It was horrible and it went on for way too long. I think I read once that dreaming about losing your teeth is a sign of underlying stress. Looking back, it probably was. I let go of some things in my life and haven't had those reoccurring dreams in some time. I do, however, have the random dream where I lose a tooth and it is quite disturbing. Its always killed me to see people on the news so willing to talk about an event on camera without all of their "important"- FRONT- teeth. If I needed new teeth and money were tight I would rob a bank if I had too- but I'd be sitting in jail with ALL of my teeth! Just kidding. But seriously, I just can't imagine walking around without all of my teeth- the thought kills me. So, I say all this to explain that I really have issues about teeth (or the lack thereof), among the other issues I probably have! Well, my husband, the Paramedic who sees all kinds of blood and guts and horrendous accidents, also is not a teeth person. There are two things he is squeamish about- puke and teeth. Our poor children are pretty much thrown to the wolves when it comes to pulling teeth. Now, Alyssa is the only one who is at the point of losing teeth, but she is on her own! She lost her 7th tooth this morning and for the 7th time she pulled it herself. Of course, she wouldn't have wanted us to do it anyway, but I'm just saying... Anniston might but I'm afraid that will be too bad. You know that lady/teacher in elementary school that was sort of the unofficial "official tooth puller"? Well, our girls will have to go to her! So, tonight the tooth fairy gets to visit our house. Its been almost a year since her last visit. It seems Alyssa hit a slow period on tooth losing. While Anniston is quickly approaching the "snaggle tooth all I want for Christmas is my two front teeth" stage Ayden Claire is just trying to get her full set of baby teeth in. She has had the bottom two teeth since she was eight months old and the two top side (not front, weird huh?) teeth followed. Finally, after a couple of months the front top two came in and that's been it for about 6 months. But over the past month or so she's been getting the back molars which seems to be horribly painful. They are huge teeth in her little baby mouth and sharp and jagged and have taken forever to come through completely. The top molars are still pushing their way through and hopefully soon she'll be pain free from teething. She's a trooper though and hardly complains. And, on the bright side, she was able to enjoy cubed steak with us the other night because she had teeth to chew it with! Here are some pictures of the girls teeth/missing teeth.

Little Legs

2009-01-28T13:45:00.005-06:00

This morning we were walking through the parking lot into Annistons preschool building. It was cooler and drizzling rain and of course I was umbrella-less so I was walking a little faster than I normally do. Anniston was two or three steps behind- not umbrella-less, she was high and dry under her 6 inch circumference Dora umbrella. She said, "Hey, wait on me! I just have little legs!" I giggled. But she was right- she does just have "little legs" and sometimes I have to be reminded of that. She has "little legs" with not as many miles on them as mine. I hope one day she does though, and many many more miles! I love those little legs- all three sets of them.

Annistons Special Birthday Party

2009-01-25T10:59:00.002-06:00

For the past year Anniston has said she wants to have her birthday party at Disney World. I'm not sure she remembers a lot about going the first time we took her- she was 2 and a half. But she remembered enough to know she wanted to go back! We have been wanting to take the girls back before Wes starts his three semester nursing school next January. So it just kind of made sense to go during spring break which also happens to hold the day Anniston turns 5! Well, the week of our spring break was pretty booked so we backed it up and are going the week before. We are leaving on Sunday March 8th, and coming home Monday, March 16th. Anniston will get to celebrate turning the big "5" at the most magical place in the world! I am so excited for her. She's so sweet and doesn't really ask for a lot. Being the middle child, she gets a lot of Alyssa's hand me downs- toys and clothes. They usually don't make it to Ayden Claire so she winds up with lots of new stuff like the first child. I guess in a way, I feel like Anniston deserves to celebrate her birthday at Disney! I'm not sure if Alyssa is more excited about going on a family vacation to Disney or missing a week of school! Either way, I can't wait. I can't wait to see the looks on all our girls faces as they see everything. I love seeing Disney World through little eyes! I may love it more than them. So, happy early 5th birthday, Anniston. I can't wait til your party!

Practice School and Sex

2009-01-25T09:40:00.003-06:00

These are a couple conversations I've encountered over the past week...

Anniston came home from school Wednesday and told me, "I hate school and I'm not going back. Ms. Brandi is mean and she yells at the class!" (Now, I don't really think Ms. Brandi is mean nor does she probably "yell"- she just has to be firm with a few of the kids and this bothers Anniston.) Great, I'm thinking...because I know Anniston and if she has made her mind up not to go back to school we are in trouble! I tried to play it off lightly and told her, "No, you have to finish going to preschool so you will be ready for kindergarten next year!" She considered this and said, "Oh, preschool is just practice school?" I laughed at the idea, "Yep, preschool is practice school and you have to practice!" She seemed okay and went to school Friday without problem- for the most part. I love how her little mind thinks!

Then, on the way home from a day out with Alyssa and Ayden Claire (Wes and Anniston were hunting), Alyssa started professing her undying love for me and her family. Now, this is rare for Alyssa and I was truly touched! I asked her if she thought one day she would find a husband to love and love her as much as Mommy and Daddy love each other-not that I'm rushing her! She quickly told me "No! I don't want to have babies so I'm not getting married!" "Well, Alyssa, you know just because you get married doesn't mean you have to have babies. I know several couples who are married and don't have babies." She was concerned about the whole "sex" thing and getting pregnant so I reminded her that there were ways to prevent having a baby once you are married. She responded with, "Yeah, but why do you have sex then if you don't want a baby?" Uh-oh...good question! I stumbled around for the words and then pretty much told her something about married people spending time together and blah blah blah! I wasn't ready for that one! Maybe she will one day decide she does want to get married but right now it looks like she's headed for the title of "Cat Lady".

A New Day

2009-01-21T10:21:00.003-06:00

Well, today is President Obamas first full day as the leader of our great nation. No matter how you feel about him (and I know we all have strong opinions on both ends of the spectrum), he is our President and he needs our support and prayers. He has "inherited" quite a mess and I know that can't be blamed solely on George W. Bush. I was glued to the TV yesterday watching the inauguration. I'm nostalgic and sentimental and I wanted to see history in the making. Anniston was so funny. She kept saying "Where is John McCain?" I told her he didn't win and wasn't going to be president. She said, "He was the loser?" She had decided to pull for Obama back in November while Alyssa chose to be a McCain supporter. A house divided! She couldn't help but rub it in at supper- "Alyssa, John McCain didn't win. He isn't president. He lost because he didn't get as many votes as Obama." Frankly, to hear my 4 year old talking politics cracks me up to no end, no matter who she's choosing! I hope they all grow up and stay somewhat interested in politics and our country. Raging conservative to middle of the road to tree hugging liberal- thats the great thing about America. We all get to have opinions and let our voices be heard.

One Life to Love

2009-01-21T10:15:00.003-06:00

I heard this song today on the radio on my way home. I loved the lyrics! Its by a group called 33 Miles- go listen to them if you haven't. I really like this group!

One Life To Love

He never thought he cared so much about the minute hand
Until he started praying for, a second chance
If he could only do it all again
He'd trade the long nights that he spent behind his desk
For all he missed

He tells his wife, "I wish that this moment in this room was not me dying, but just spending a little time with you."

You only get just one time around
You only get one shot at this
One chance, to find out
The one thing that you don't wanna miss
One day when it's all said and done
I hope you see that it was enough, this
One ride, one try, one life...
To love....

She never thought she cared so much about those little hands
That held on tight the day she left
Til she was scared to death
Sitting all alone on a hotel bed, the end of the road
The sun had set on her big plans
To feel young again

She picks up the phone, dials the number, hears that little voice
That's haunted every single mile, since she made that choice

You only get just one time around
You only get one shot at this
One chance, to find out
The one thing that you don't wanna miss
One day when it's all said and done
I hope you see that it was enough, this
One ride, one try, one life...
To love............

You only get just one time around
Only get one shot at this
One chance, to find out
The one thing that you don't wanna miss
One day when it's all said and done
I hope you see that it was enough, this
One ride, one try, one life........
One ride, one try, one life........
To love....
To love....

I know I won't get it completely right my "one time around" but I sure hope to try my best and know whats important and what isn't going to matter in the end.

The New Blogger on the Block

2009-01-19T23:58:00.004-06:00

Wes called me Friday to tell me he was going to start his own blog. I guess he feels there are two sides to every story and he wants his to be heard too! No, he's been talking about starting a blog for a while and finally did. So, check his out at www.wessidestories.blogspot.com or click on his link on my page. He has a really sweet post about the 4 women in his life and hopefully he'll have more to come about his exciting life at home and work! :)

When Its Cold Outside- Go Ice Skating!

2009-01-19T23:36:00.004-06:00

We had been housebound due to the 30 degree weather for a few days so Saturday we were more than ready for an outing. The girls chose ice skating over a movie so I took Alyssa, Anniston, Ayden Claire and Sarah. Ayden Claire and I watched from the sidelines. The last time they had been was in September for Alyssa's birthday and Wes had been there to help Anniston. She was on her own Saturday though. Well, I thought she would be but Alyssa helped her until she was confident enough to go at it alone. Alyssa was such a sweet big sister! Her friend Sarah never left the wall but that didn't stop Alyssa from venturing out and skating with her little sister. I was so proud of her for being so helpful. Afterwards, we ate at Chick Fil A, rode the carousel and the girls did a little modeling in Limited Too.

Sweet Girls

2009-01-19T23:16:00.003-06:00

Alyssa- I love your seriousness and the way you will try anything. I love your outgoing personality and the fact that you are always up for a good time. You are braver than you know.

Anniston- I love the way you find the positive in everything and everyone. You are the most optimistic person, young or old, that I know. I love the way you stick to your guns- even though it drives me insane when I'm the one trying to persuade you differently.

Ayden Claire- I love the way you brighten up any day with your sweet little smile and the huge open mouth kisses you pass out daily. You remind me of lifes simple pleasures- a good thumb, a big hug, a wet kiss, pat a cake and Pat the Bunny.

Spaghetti Anyone?

2009-01-19T22:50:00.003-06:00

Why is it that babies favorite meals are often the messiest? Ayden Claire loves spaghetti- the pictures actually do not do the disaster called dinner justice but, I'm sure if you've had kids you can get the picture! We reserve feeding her spaghetti for dinner rather than lunch so that we can go straight to the tub afterwards!

And yes, I do realize Ayden Claire is starting to sport a rockin' mullet...I'm not really sure what to do about that? My other girls weren't born with quite so much hair as her so theirs seemed to grow in more evenly. Hers is growing like wildfire in the back but the front is a little behind. I'm not ready to cut off her sweet little curls but we've got to do something... I need to cut the "twigs" soon- I'll blog about the ceremonious event when it happens!

The Wii- REALLY For The Whole Family

2009-01-19T22:40:00.002-06:00

We got the Wii at the end of November from the girls aunts- Jen, Kendra and Jill. Wes and I have enjoyed it as much and if not more than Alyssa and Anniston. Recently, after searching high and low around town I found the Wii Fit one day at Best Buy. Needless to say, Ayden Claire sees us playing it quite often and not to be outdone by her big sisters, she's trying to get in some Wii play time too! I thought she looked so cute imitating her big sisters.

Christmas 2008

2009-01-02T14:19:00.002-06:00

We had a great Christmas. Its been crazy busy, but here are a few pictures! The girls got way too much, we ate way too much and now I'm having to clean and catch up on mountains of laundry. But we are so blessed and I wouldn't trade any of this! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and may you be extra blessed in 2009!

Twenties No More

2008-12-29T10:34:00.004-06:00

My husband turned 30 yesterday, December 28th. I can't believe I just said that! 30! I've known "of" him since I was little and would visit my grandparents. He lived a few houses down the street from them and I would see him riding his bike past on occasion. Then when I went to live with them in the 8th grade I learned his name was Wes Kelley and he was very cute. In 9th grade we had several classes together. He was a typical 9th grade boy- class clown, goof off, immature...you know. By 11th grade he had grown up slightly and we began dating December 1st of 1995 our junior year. So, basically we grew into adulthood together. We got married at the ripe age of 20 (almost 21) and started our life together. I just can't believe how the past decade has flown and everything we have experienced together. Obvisouly, our proudest accomplishments are our 3 daughters. We have had a busy "twentysomething" but we could not be happier- well, he would like me to cook more and I would like him to pick up his dirty laundry more, but with those exceptions.... Wes has been going slowly going gray since his very early twenties so he is good and ready to face the thirties! I, on the other hand, am not! And its just around the corner. I am so thankful that Wes was put in my life- I can't wait to spend our 30's together and see what this decade holds. I love you, my "old" man!

The Hottest Baby Names

2008-12-23T16:27:00.003-06:00

According to Yahoo!, the #1 Hottest Baby Boy Name for 2008 was "Aidan" once again. This is two years in a row for "Aidan". "Isabella" was it for girls followed by "Ava". Now, let me remind you that I picked out Aidan for our child before I was even pregnant with Anniston and I NEVER have seen an episode of Sex and the City so I have no connection with the character named Aidan on that show. I saw it in a Parents magazine back in 2002 and knew I had to have an Aidan! We named Anniston and held out on our Aidan name for the son we would surely (mathematically speaking) have later on down the road. When we found out baby #3 was a girl, I didn't have a girl name- it figures, right? I like Addison but we have a Madison in the family already. I liked Adelynn but Kendra swears shes naming her daughter Madelyn. And of course, we had to have an "A" name- I'm very type A at times! So we said, "Lets name her Ayden and call her Ayden Claire" and that's what we did. By the way, Aidan/Ayden/Aiden/Aden/Aydan/Aden means "little fire". As she grows each month, I am begining to think her name suits her just perfectly! She is wonderful but she is "the baby"... Now you know how our "little fire" became Ayden Claire. And I'm thinking its very likely she will grow up and marry an Aidan/Aiden/Ayden/Aden...

Christmas Party- 2nd Grade Style

2008-12-19T14:41:00.005-06:00

Yesterday was Alyssa's class Christmas party. It started at 1:00 with Mrs. Hurst opening her gifts. She too, like Ms. Brandi, racked up with all kinds of goodies! She deserves it, she is an excellent teacher and works hard. I would have a hard enough time keeping up with 18 second graders let alone actually teaching them! We had doughnuts, cookies, chips, dip, crackers and Cheez Whiz. Anniston and Ayden Claire enjoyed hanging out with the big kids, too. Now schools out for 2 weeks. I am so looking forward to not having to get up and get everyone ready and not having to study for a couple of weeks. I'm sure we'll all be ready for school to start back though come January!

Alyssa in her classroom waiting on the party to start.

Getting a hug from Mrs. Hurst after she opened her gift from Alyssa

Alyssa and Jordan sitting in the dugout, Mrs. Hurst has a "Baseball stadium" themed room- its very cute!

Can we say SUGAR?

Sarah, Alyssa, Carley and Sara Grace

Friends...

Anniston and her friend Jerrica both have siblings in Mrs. Hurst's class

Class of 2019!

Feeling Froggy? Be Crafty!

2008-12-17T20:17:00.004-06:00

Tonight we decided to get messy! Wes is working on the helicopter so its just me and the girls. So why not get crafty and make handprints of all the girls? My neighbor Lisa, brought over some extra "Grandparent" crafts she had bought for her kids to make. So, SPOILER ALERT******Picture of our crafts below***** Grandparents (that would be you, Nanny) may not want to look at the following picture! :)

Ayden Claire's handprints are the ones in the last row. They aren't that much smaller than Annistons!

Christmas Party- 4 Year Old Style

2008-12-17T19:47:00.004-06:00

Today was the highly anticipated, long awaited preschool Christmas party! There was excitment in the air at Coosada Baptist Preschool, especially in Ms. Brandi's class! The kids ate- several varieties of cookies and cupcakes, just to make sure they had enough sugar to get them through the party- and then exchanged books with one another. I say "exchanged" but actually, Anniston picked the book she had brought when it was her turn. She wanted that Disney Princess ABC 123 book with read along CD so bad she couldn't stand it! Next it was Ms. Brandi's turn to open all of her goodies- I may look into teaching for the sheer fact of the awesome "Christmas Bonus"! Just kidding, but Ms. Brandi racked up! Finally, we collected all of the kids lovely artwork and headed home for a nap!

Hard at work...

Welcome to my class, Ayden Claire!

Ayden Claire making herself at home...

Anniston is so excited about her book!

"Don't even think about taking my sippy cup, Mister!"

Anniston and Ms. Brandi

Too much sugar, there Ayden Claire?

Group Hug!

Breakfast With Santa

2008-12-13T13:49:00.003-06:00

We went to Applebee's this morning to have breakfast with Santa. We got there at 8 and were served pancakes while Santa walked around and visited with the tables. After we ate Alyssa and Anniston sat with him- Ayden Claire said "No, thanks!" We then went to Bass Pro Shops where low and behold, we saw Santa AGAIN! He is a super busy guy this time of the year!

A Poem For Mothers....

2008-12-12T16:45:00.003-06:00

I saw this on a friends refrigerator the other day while at her house. It was quite a humbling experience...she is really living this way! I wish I'd read it 8 years ago, but better late than never, right?

If I Had My Child to Raise Over Again

If I had my child to raise all over again,
I'd finger-paint more, and point the fingers less.
I would do less correcting and more connecting.
I'd take my eyes off my watch, and watch with my eyes.
I would care to know less and know to care more.
I'd take more hikes and fly more kites.
I'd stop playing serious, and seriously play.
I would run through more fields and gaze at more stars.

I'd do more hugging and less tugging.
I'd build self-esteem first, and the house later.
I would be firm less often, and affirm much more.
I'd teach less about the love of power, And more about the power of love.

by Diane Loomans

My favorite line is "I'd build self-esteem first, and the house later." I often think how nice it would be to have a "bigger" or "nicer" house when in reality our house is plenty big for us and only as "nice" as we make it. As a mother of daughters, I desperately want them to value themselves and know their worth- so my new years resolution is to let go of the "perfect house" ideals I struggle with and concentrate on my daughters!

What a Difference A Year Makes!

2008-12-12T16:41:00.002-06:00

Last years Christmas card photo....
2007

And this year...
2008

Catching Up!

2008-12-12T16:25:00.005-06:00

Well, its been a while! I must admit, I've been caught up in the hustle and bustle that comes along with Christmas time. Trying to make sure 3 girls are all "fairly" visited by Santa is a job in itself. I am officially finished with everyone on our list, the cards are mailed, and the house is decorated so I plan to enjoy the next couple of weeks without the stress of last minute shopping! We've been busy going to the parade, Christmas tree lighting, Christmas choir concert, Polar Express PJ party and we have a couple of Haynes Christmas Parties to attend next week. I also want to squeeze in a trip to the Zoo to see the lights there (although I don't know if I can handle the cold out at night!), a tour of Christmas lights around town with the girls, and we really want to have a Christmas party next Saturday for the girls and their friends- I'll let you know how that turns out if we do! Enjoy your family this Christmas and make it super special for the little ones! Til next time....

Giving Thanks

2008-12-01T12:59:00.005-06:00

Thursday was Thanksgiving. Its a bittersweet holiday for me. I am so thankful for many things, which I'll get to momentarily, but it reminds me of the Thanksgivings I used to enjoy with my Granny and how much I miss that. She loved to cook for the people she loved and she fed us well! This was our 3rd Thanksgiving without her and I still miss her just as much as I did that first year. I was so blessed to have had such a wonderful, inspiring Granny, and for that I will always be extremely thankful! Also topping my list for things to give thanks for is, obvisouly my 3 healthy daughters. We could never thank God enough for placing these girls in our arms to raise and love. I know I have never done anything worthy of such wonderful gifts and I will always be so thankful for our girls. My wonderful husband deserves a million thanks! He puts up with so much- he lives with 4 females, can you imagine? He wipes tears (all of ours), rubs necks and legs and arms(all of ours), cooks a good bit of the time, bathes, prays and works a job and a half outside of all that! He is such a Godsend and he does all that he does with a positive attitude. I am so blessed to have sisters I can call on anytime to share stories with, gripe to, and count on. I also have a little brother that I am so thankful is in our lives- he is an amazing young man and I can't wait to see what he is going to do in life- I have a feeling its going to be great. I'm thankful for my mom- who I've learned so much from. I'm grateful for the "Nanny" that she is to our girls. I'm thankful for friends- the true few who know probably more than they really want to know about me! So those are the biggies, but I'm also thankful for some of lifes simple pleasures. Like, big red gum, summertime, cuddling, neckrubs, flipflops, Target, hairbows and ribbon, my favorite blue jeans, being from Alabama, pepper, mashed potatoes and macaroni, the E! channel, hot baths, good books....the list goes on!

Letter

2008-11-12T04:53:00.003-06:00

To the THIEF who took OUR stuff,

Well, you got me! I learned a very expensive lesson yesterday. One I was so naive and thought I would be spared from learning I suppose. What in your head (obviously you have no heart) told you it was OKAY for you to come into someone else's home and take things that do NOT belong to you? I guess you didn't think that my CHILDREN would be the ones to notice things were missing before me. That they would be coming in the house before I did. My poor 8 year olds face was so startled and confused- I'll never forget it. It gives me chills to think what would have happened had you still been here when they ran into their safe haven- their HOME! You have completely rocked their innocent little world. You not only took something physical from us- you took something psychological too and from my BABIES. I think I am more disgusted by you for this. I can replace a TV and computer- but I can not give my children their feeling of confidence and trust that they are okay in their own HOME. Maybe you didn't think that someone worked very hard to purchase those two items. I'm sure you have no regard for the fact that my husband's laptop was in the living room because after WORKING one of his TWO jobs, he sat down to relax in HIS HOME and watch HIS television and check the weather on HIS computer to see if he would be able to fly at his SECOND job on Wednesday. You see, he risks HIS life every week to help other people, even people like you. Ironic, don't you think? If you or someone you love were to need medical attention quickly, it would be the very person you stole from -or his friends- that would be there to help your sorry ass. Did it make you feel big to take something that you didn't earn? I give my kids allowance every week- they have to do chores to EARN it and they would never take something that didn't belong to them. Did I mention they are 8 and 4. Maybe your mother never taught you that....sadly. My 8 year old suggested we find you and "go steal our stuff back" but I told her we couldn't "steal" anything. If the police found it then we could have it back, otherwise, it isn't ours anymore. Then my 4 year old said "The bad man (she just assumes you are a man) should have asked nicely. He should have asked to BORROW our TV. And he should have said PLEASE." Wow! If only you had some of my 4 year olds knowledge and honesty and integrity and kindness. I hope that you needed that TV and laptop so desperately it was a live or die situation for you. In that case, I'm so glad we could help. I'm sure that wasn't the case though. I don't know what you did with it. I don't care. We are looking forward to picking out our new TV. We have decided it is going to be bigger- so big it won't fit so easily out the front door for you next time. I always thought that wall was too big not to have a bigger TV on it, what did you think? I also am further convinced amidst this that we have the absolute best neighbors ever. You see, before the police cars had turned off our street, two of my neighbors were already bringing over an extra TV for us to use. That's what people do. They do unto others... Maybe today you will be back in school (I can't help but think you were a kid out of school on Veterans Day- did you know my husband is a VETERAN? Yep, that's right, he is a man of service- even for people like you- and that is how you say "Thanks"....) or maybe, here's an idea, you will go get a JOB and make your own money so you can buy your own things. At the end of the day, my family is safe and those "things" you took can be replaced. We will be okay, my girls are shaken up and will probably be in our bed for a few nights. I sure did treasure cuddling with them last night and watching them as they slept. I can't help but think if you knew them at least, you would never have wanted them to feel afraid in their HOME. But then again, I would think you would have never taken something that wasn't yours....

Sincerely,
the woman of the house who may have left the front door unlocked and wasn't home because I was taking my 3 precious girls to lunch at McDonald's and shopping for my sisters new baby something special on their day out of school

P.S. I REALLY wish you would have grabbed the digital camera. It quit working this past weekend and we have been shopping for a new one. Of course you wouldn't have known that til you were long gone. Then I could have filed that too on my claim- we're just too honest to do that, though.