My Life as MaMa

And Then There Were Six

2015-10-02T07:10:00.002-04:00

We are welcoming our newest addition in April!

So far everything looks great, and I am actually feeling pretty well this pregnancy. I prayed and fasted for a pregnancy that did not make me feel completely like death, and so far so good! I am so excited to find out what this little nugget is, and I am anticipating its arrival! I can't wait to love on a sweet newborn again!

Caleb is excelling at school, and is truly liking it. He is learning and becoming so independent!

Mckinlee is loving Pre K as well!

Paxton is growing and changing every day! I need to write a post to remember all the cute things he is doing!

Caleb Takes on Kinder

2015-08-19T14:07:00.003-04:00

The day I have dreaded in all my 6 years of motherhood has come and gone. My first born started Kindergarten...... To say I wasn't emotional would be a lie. However, in the week he has been attending school, I have loved watching him grow into his own person. He is loving it, is always coming home with a good report, and is happy. That is really all I could ask for.

His first day we hurried and got ready, took pictures, said a prayer with him and then headed to school. Once we arrived there was a huge mix up with his papers, and I had to deal with the office for about 20 minutes (not fun), but we got it all worked out, and he began his life as a Kindergartener. As we walked down the halls after leaving him, I cried and cried. It was hard. It was once of those 50/50 emotions. I was so excited for him, but it broke me to my core to know that a door was shut to the old chapter of our life. Thankfully our city has AM/PM Kindergarten, so he only goes to school for 3 hours. Nick and the babies and I had breakfast, and then it was time to pick him up!! He had a great first day!

His height compared to me on his first day of Kindergarten. I want to take a picture like this each year and watch him grow. Its crazy to think that one day I will be looking up at him.

Another huge step came on day 2 of school. I actually let him ride the bus! Anyone who knows me knows that I have a huge fear of buses. No seatbelts/influences/NO SEATBELTS! He has begged and begged to ride, and I finally decided to not allow my fear to hold him back. Fear is not from God after all. He rides in the morning and I pick him up after school. He has loved it!! I am waiting for the newness to wear off because right now he is so easy to wake up in the morning. He knows if he oversleeps he will miss the bus!

Just another cute before school picture. It was also the last picture of the beard. Nick shaved it like 10 minutes later.

Twas the Day Before Kindergarten....

2015-08-14T11:27:00.002-04:00

I knew that I wanted to make the last day of summer for Caleb special! When we woke up that morning I told him that he got to pick what he wanted to do. Other than pre planned well check, he planned the entire day.

We went by his school and prayed for the upcoming school year. Caleb's biggest prayer was that they finish laying the mulch on the playground.

We went to the park beside our gym, and then headed to the pool once it opened. Unfortunately it was a little chilly, so swimming did not last very long. We ate lunch poolside and then played on the playground a little longer.

We went for his well check and he was 45 lbs and 45 inches. 50% for both. He was cracking me up when they were asking him questions about shapes/which line is bigger/colors. He just had this look of "are you really asking me this? this is so easy". I couldn't help but laugh!

After his well check we went for dinner and ice cream at a local dairy bar. The food was delicious and the company was even better!

We then ran by Wal Mart to finish school shopping, and he picked out some shirts that he wanted. I love watching his style take flight.

After baths we snuggled in bed and read some books about Kindergarten. We prayed for the day ahead, and talked about making kind and wise choices. I then kissed him goodnight, went to the deck, and drank alone while watching old baby videos and crying...for hours. This growing up stuff is hard on mommy!!!

No better words could ever describe my feelings......

Caleb Turns SIX

2015-08-11T07:07:00.003-04:00

My not so little man, tuned six last week!! SIX!!! It is so crazy to think that the little baby who was in my belly when I started this blog is now a six year old boy!!! Time is crazy fast!

To celebrate this year Caleb requested an all boy party at a bowling ally. Super simple. We invited 5 friends, they bowled, we ate bowling ally food, sang, opened presents and we were done. I didn't even bring decorations. So simple, and non stressful. Caleb was happy as could be. I let him have one friend spend the night for the first time, and he loved that. The next day we played outside with his friend.

We celebrated with my in laws one night.

The night before his actual birthday Caleb went to the fair with his friend Landon. While he was gone the littles and I bought décor and decorated the kitchen, and our car. I laughed because I do not know how to blow up a balloon. However, Mckinlee has figured it out! She blew up all the balloons for the car and the kitchen! haha. We opened gifts with Caleb after he returned home from the fair, and after baths he snuggled up on me and fell asleep. I had a momma moment of crying as I rubbed his hair, and wondered where the years had gone. The next day we swam, and had dinner at mamas work.

Caleb,

I can not believe you are already six!!! You have the sweetest heart, the wisest soul, and you love deeply. You are going to do great things. This year is a big step for you. You start kindergarten. It will be a year of independence. You will walk halls on your own, make choices, reap consequences, and possibly ride the school bus. This year is the year where you will start to become you, on your own, without mama...... I want you to know that you have got this!! You can shape this year to be the best it can be. Make wise and kind choices, be a friend to those who need one, be a good student. I hate that your little boy days are passing so quickly, but I am excited to see the big boy and man you one day become.

Remember your life verse in moments of trials, fear, and confusion

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid. The Lord your God is with you wherever you go"

I have prayed that verse over you for years. You have got this little man. Here is to being six, and all the new adventures it will bring.

Love,

Mama

VBS, Creeks, One on One Time

2015-07-15T23:46:00.002-04:00

This past weekend/week has been great! My mother in law graciously kept the kids for 3 days last weekend, and allowed Nick and I to celebrate our anniversary with a Staycation. We were able to eat some yummy meals, go out with friends, and go to a pool ALL BY OURSELVES!!!! I was also finally able to use my mothers day giftcard and head to the spa for a much needed massage. To say that we are grateful is an understatement. (Note to self, do this for your kids one day).

This week the kids have been in VBS and they have loved it. Mckinlee's last day is tomorrow and Caleb's last day is Friday. I hate that they end on separate days because Mckinlee will be crushed, but it has been a great week. During VBS I have taken advantage of having some one on one time with P. After the gym on Monday I took him to the park, and then we went down to the creek to play and throw rocks. He is just growing up so fast. Everyday he is understanding more, and acting more and more like a toddler. Time, you are so fleeting.

I surprised the kids with a picnic at the park today after VBS, and then we all headed down to the creek to mark of a "must do" on our Summer Bucket List. It has rained almost all summer, so I figured we needed to take advantage of the sunshine.

We went swimming before gymnastics tonight and Mckinlee learned to swim!! It finally clicked with her, and she was swimming under water by the time we left!! I am so proud of her!

It has been a great week! Now here is to praying the rain stays away.

Virginia

2015-07-11T00:16:00.001-04:00

We traveled to a family farm in Virginia this past week to visit my dad and step mom. We all had a great time, and we are looking forward to going back soon.

When we arrived Mckinlee was surprised to enter every little girls dream bedroom. She LOVED it!

I don't remember the exact order of days, but we participated in lots of fun activities while there. I do not have photos of the actual fourth of July, but we spent it in the pool at the farm. We ate yummy food, swam, relaxed and just enjoyed the day.

One night we visited the town dock. The kids had fun rock climbing, eating ice cream, bouncing on the trampoline and visiting the arcade. Before we left I was able to get some decent pictures of all of us!

We were missing a certain little guy for the above picture. He was busy elsewhere being spoiled rotten.

We finished this night at the drive in watching Inside Out. Paxton slept the entire time in the car, but the bigs had a lot of fun!

The next day we went to the State Fair. The beginning of the day was really rainy. We watched a show indoors where people broke wood and blocks. Caleb got to go up on stage and break a piece of wood and he loved that.
We waited out the rain indoors eating junk food. Caleb cracked me up eating his snow cone. At one point he was so cold that he was shaking. He put on his hoodie, pulled up the hood, and kept eating. #determination.

That night we were able to score some free wristbands for the carnival, and we rode rides until they closed. I must say that I am way to old for the rides #sick.

We spent one day just exploring the farm. We drove around in the truck, my dad let the kids take turns driving, we hiked, we looked at cows, we climbed deer stands.....etc. I love days like that. It reminded me of childhood.

Mckinlee really liked the car with "no toppin".

We celebrated my dads birthday. Mckinlee picked out all the decorations and decorated the cake. I love the upside down Y's so very much.

Our final day we had the best weather of our trip. We spent it at the lake on the beach. Unfortunately we only got to spend a half day on the beach before heading home, but it was a great time!

June 2015

2015-06-30T14:17:00.001-04:00

Another day, another catch up post. Can we all just talk about how they need to update the blogger app? I feel as though I could blog so much easier if I didn't have to make time to sit down with a real computer.....

We made a summer to do list this year, and one goal we had was to visit new parks. There is so much around our area that we have yet to explore, and I really thought this would be a fun way to enjoy time as a family. One particular Sunday we spent all day at a park downtown. It is right on the river, and it had fountains, a maze, a cool play set, a water playground where you could dam water, some cool balancing toys etc. It was so fun!! So much to do! We all had a blast!

We have found an amazing small group at church! Tons of kids, all the wives are great, and Nick loves to hang out with all the dads! It is truly an answer to prayer! We have been having lots of get togethers with them. This past weekend we went a family farm. The kids swam, played outside, we grilled, and just enjoyed each others company. It was a cold day, but it was a great time!

We visited the zoo with some friends one day, went to a few birthday parties, Paxton was introduced to ice cream cones, and the kids and I had a huge water fight. If you ask me we are doing summer right!

Our big man also attended 3 days of Kindergarten Camp. He loved it and he is so excited about school starting in August.....I on the other hand am holding onto each moment that I get to keep him home with me......#timeslowdown.

To You My Love.......

2015-06-30T14:10:00.000-04:00

Nick-

Words can not begin to describe how much the kids and I love you. To say we are blessed is an understatement. You are such an amazing husband, and an awesome father. I love the way the kids light up when they see you. I love how you wrestle with them, throw them in the air, and stare at them with a smile on your face when they snuggle you. I love how much you love them. I am so glad that I get to parent them with you. I am so proud of how hard you work for us, and how you put up with my stubborn self. I love everything about you. I love the man of God that you are becoming, and that you are leading our family. I love your back rubs, our snuggles, and binge watching shows with you. You truly are my best friend! Happy Fathers Day babe!

Mothers Day 2015

2015-05-21T14:05:00.000-04:00

I had a great Mothers Day this year. Nick went above and beyond to make sure it was special for me, and I am super grateful for that!

Saturday we went to Caleb's game, went to some yard sales, had lunch, and then I enjoyed a 4 hour nap!! That night we went bowling for the first time with the kids, and just enjoyed each others company!

Sunday we went to church, spent some time at home, and then celebrated at my in laws. It was a great day!

I am forever grateful for these three blessings!! I still can't believe I get to be their mom!

Every New Beginning Comes from some other Beginnings End

2015-05-21T13:59:00.002-04:00

My boy officially graduated Preschool today.......wow, that stirs up emotions for me! I am so beyond proud of him. I am so excited or the little MAN he is truly becoming, but gosh does it hurt. Time is seriously so fleeting that it is painful. I swear I just brought him home from the hospital yesterday, but some how all those yesterdays are gone, and now a future of NEW tomorrows are a head of us. In a few months he, and I will be entering into a new reality. Gone are the days of toddlerhood......gone are the days of comfort....gone are the days where I feel like I know what I am doing. I have never parented a school age child before, just as he has never been one. It is a new world for both of us, and I am both excited and scared for that.

Caleb is so beyond ready, and he is super excited to be in Kindergarten. I pray I can share in that excitement, and not be overcome with anxiety and sadness. I mean after all, God did not make him to stay under my wing forever. He formed him to become his own person, to step into this world and make a difference. I am so grateful for the opportunity to watch him become that man. I see daily that he is taking the wisdom I have given him, applying it and making good choices. He stands up for the rules when his friends do not, he loves deeply, he is kind, he plays with friends who are lonely, he listens and obeys. I have been told that I am doing a good job because of who he is. I know he will rock Kindergarten!!

Mckinlee also had her last day of preschool for the year. You all think I am overly emotional now....just wait until she graduates next year. One in "real" school is enough, but two will be too much for me to take!

Paxton 13-15 Months

2015-05-21T13:46:00.002-04:00

Sweet boy, I am sorry that you do not have consistent monthly posts. Life is a whole lot busier than it was when your older siblings were your age. Forgive me and give me grace :). I promise it doesn't mean I love you any less.

Eating: Your new favorite food is banana's. This is funny because you would not touch them in baby food form.

Sleeping: 1 nap, and sleeping 8-8:30.

Size: I do not know your exact size right now but I would guess 20 lbs. You are wearing 12 months. A size 4 diaper. A size 4 shoe.

Teeth: You have 11 teeth now. Your molars came in before I even realized what was going on.

Speech: You say

more
woof
dahh "dog"
uh oh
mama
dada
grrrr

Exciting New Things:

You are WALKING now. You started mid April. You have just now started mastering standing up from falling on your own. You waddle all over the place. You are still pretty unsteady at times, but you work so hard at it.
You throw tantrums now. Full blown, throw yourself backwards tantrums....those are fun...
You point and say "dahh,woof woof" anytime you see a dog.
You love to play kisses with Bella. You will bend over and put your head between your legs, and she will come and kiss your face, and you crack up. It is so cute.
When you wake up in the morning you have to touch the dog on your lamp.
You have started saying "more" and actually pointing out what you want.
You sign all done.
You know your head, and how old you are.
You grab shoes and try to put them on your own feet.
Caleb is still your favorite.
You love to ride in the blue car with the bigs
You love playing in the water table on the deck.
You love being outside.
You bring me books and say "more"

You are a little more opinionated now a days but you are oh so cute and sweet! We love you to pieces!

Soccer and Life

2015-04-19T23:39:00.001-04:00

This past week began with life getting back to normal. I went out of town last weekend, so when I arrived home there as laundry, cleaning, and shopping that I needed to get caught up on.

Monday we dropped Caleb at school, and then the littles and I ran to Sams and Kroger. Kroger was out of car carts, but thankfully they were fully stocked in the free cookie department. This my friends is called survival.

I worked Tuesday night, had a girls night Wednesday, and Thursday night we began our Brave journey with church.

Saturday was Caleb's first soccer game of the season. He is number 3 this year and is playing for coach Adam once again. He scored the first goal of the game, played an extra quarter, and scored 3 more goals! He did so great!

Saturday night we went to Jenn's wedding. I unintentionally coordinated the kids outfits, but they would not corporate for a picture! We had a lot of fun! Caleb enjoyed playing with his cousins, and Mckinlee loved dancing. My sis kept Paxton!

Today has been very rainy. We skipped church and I caught up on cleaning/went to the grocery.

Easter 2015

2015-04-06T21:16:00.003-04:00

We had wonderful Easter weekend. We decided to attend church on Saturday this year, and Nick's parents joined us. The service was beyond amazing. I don't even have words to describe it. Our church brought us a service from the streets of Jerusalem, and it as so moving. I am so beyond grateful for the church we have found. Nick has become a Christian, and was baptized, we have both grown spiritually, and our kids love it. It was such an answer to prayer after years of church hoping.

I tried to get some pictures of the kids before and after service. The pictures crack me up. Kinlee would not stand still, Paxton hated the grass, and Caleb was cold. I laugh every time I look at them, but I know I will cherish them one day when my kids are grown. This was Easter 2015.

I don't even have words for this girl. Trying to get a family picture with her.......goodness. She is hysterical.

Sunday morning the kids awoke to a scavenger hunt from the bunny. They enjoyed finding the clues, and they could not wait to find their basket. Once the basket was found they were so excited about their toys and candy. They ate way too much candy, and bounced around the room playing. We then had breakfast and spent a few hours snuggling on the couch.

We also colored eggs before heading over to Nick's parents for family Easter.

Nick's parents always get the kids fun summer toys for Easter. They had a blast looking at all their goodies. The rest of the day was spent enjoying family, hunting eggs and eating yummy food.

It was a great Easter.

**Things I want to remember**

Kinlee evangelized to the Dollar Store when she saw the chocolate cross. She told the entire Easter story, and explained that Jesus died so we could go to Heaven. So sweet and cute. I told her the candy cross was symbolic of the cross Jesus died on and she said "What's bolic?". Everyone started laughing.
Paxton stood on his own a lot this day.

I Finally Feel Like Spring Has Sprung

2015-03-12T10:39:00.003-04:00

Ahh, warm weather!! It appears that it has finally arrived, and I am hoping that it is for longer than a minute. We spent all day yesterday outside playing and organizing the garage. We had just piled up the kids toys for winter, and I had to do some organization so they could get to them now that it is warm. Paxton loved being outside yesterday. He played in the exasaucer, and crawled around. It was cute to watch him experience it for the first real time. We were all in such a good mood. My plan is to take the kids straight outside after school today. I have to work tonight so I want to soak in as much of this day as I can before then.

Mckinlee has been saying "Mommy I wish baby Jesus did not give me this crazy hair". Last night she brushed and brushed her wet hair trying to make it straight "like Mikelle's". I knew the day was coming where the curls would annoy her, and all though I didn't expect it to be so soon I gave her a little treat. I dried and straightened her hair, and she wore it straight to school. She asked for no bow, and asked me 5 times on the way there if it was crazy again yet. I assured her it wasn't and she walked into school so confidently. You could tell she thought she looked beautiful. Every time someone commented on her hair she would smile and laugh. I love her confidence, and I am glad she felt beautiful.

Not much else to report. Paxton is growing up, and the other two are as great as ever.

Snow Days

2015-02-19T20:13:00.003-05:00

This photo was taken on Sunday at church, the day before OCTAVIA hit. We have been living in a winter wonderland since Monday. I was really thinking we were going to escape any large snow storm this year, but we did not...and there is more snow coming this weekend. I am ready to move South. Anyway, we have not left our house since Sunday.

School has been cancelled all week, roads have been bad, so we have had many lazy days at home. Tuesday was my birthday. We could not go anywhere so the kids and I had a mattress party in the living room, and watched old movies on Netflix. 3 Ninjas Kick Back was a big hit. We cuddled, laughed, and were lazy all day. It was not a glamorous birthday, but I enjoyed every minute with them.

We have ventured into the snow a few times. Caleb has loved helping Nick shovel the driveway, Mckinlee has loved rolling in the snow, and Paxton has enjoyed the snow from indoors. The kids and I walked to our neighborhood park yesterday while Nick stayed home with Paxton. We went down the slides that were covered in snow, used the swings, played mother may I/race/red light green light, tried to build a snow man, and had so much fun. We were all freezing by the time we got back indoors.

Speaking of indoors, I have ran out of ideas to keep the kids and myself entertained. I can only clean so much with 3 kids trapped indoors. The end of the day comes and it looks as though I have done nothing. I have turned to Pinterest all week to keep us entertained, and most ideas have been a success.

It is freezing out, but I think we may venture into the real world tomorrow. The gym is calling my name. I have to get out before the next storm hits, or I may go insane. I love this time with my littles, but I think we would all benefit from some outside interaction.

Paxton's FIrst Birthday

2015-02-19T20:04:00.004-05:00

We celebrated Paxton's first birthday the day after Mckinlee's party. Having two babies 1 week apart is not something I would recommend. Party planning was exhausting, and by the end of the weekend I felt as though I had ran a marathon. However, Paxton's party came together great, and he seemed to really enjoy himself. He was in a happy mood the entire time, ate some of his cake, and allowed anyone and everyone to hold him. I would call that a first birthday success.

We did an "Our Little Wildcat" theme. My sister, a DUKE fan, told me "that was the worst idea I ever had". However, I figured UK blue was an easy theme, and some décor items we will be able to use again. My sister made a basketball smash cake, I ordered cupcakes from SAMS, we had some appetizers, and minimal décor. I made sure that I had a photo book at the entrance for family and friends to sign (I have done this for all three kids). I didn't go as above and beyond as I have previously for birthdays, but it was stress free, and our guests enjoyed themselves.

The banner was purchased at Hobby Lobby and then my friend Brittney painted his name.

My mother in law made the wreath, the banner, and the flags.

My husband made the KY sign.

Paxton was not as into his cake as Mckinlee was, but he liked it more than Caleb did. Once he figured out what it was he enjoyed eating it. We had to finish with a bath, so that was a success.

He mostly received gift cards so we only opened a few presents.

I wasn't great at taking photos. I loved having a photographer at Mckinlee's first for that reason. I missed getting photos of him with Nick and I, and him with various family members. It is what it is at this point, but I am disappointed.

All in all it was a great party though!

Paxton, I can not believe that you are already one. It just doesn't seem possible. My memory of your birth/first week, is still so fresh. I literally feel like it was yesterday. You my boy are the sweetest little thing. You are so calm, so laid back, so loving. You kiss me, hug me, and pat my back while you squeeze me daily. I love it. You dance on que now, love to wave hi and bye bye, do so big, will raise one finger if we ask you how old you are, shake your head no, and crawl. You walk behind your walker like a pro, and love to pull up/cruise around everything. You have four teeth now, with two more trying to break through. You say dada and mama. You love Caleb and Mckinlee. You have started laughing at them so hard whenever they are around now. You are so perfect. I literally can not get enough of you, and I never want you to grow. You have the cutest smile, and the most adorable "stinker" face. Goodness I love you bud! I pray that you will be an amazing man one day. A man among men. A follower of God, a leader for your family, an amazing husband, and that you will experience the joy of fatherhood. I pray that God blesses you with health, and enough money to not worry. I pray that you always understand why you are on Earth, and that you chase after your dreams. However, for right now, I will hold you, snuggle you, smother you with kisses, and wish for you to never grow up. I know you will be an amazing man, but for right now you are my sweet, loving, cuddly one year old boy, and I am so blessed to be yours.

Love Mommy

Mckinlee's Fourth Birthday

2015-02-17T21:33:00.000-05:00

We celebrated Mckinlee's fourth birthday this past weekend. The night before her actual birthday I asked her to a take a few pictures for me. I wanted to document her last night as a three year old. This girl is such a hard subject to get a photo of. She is constantly bouncing, twirling, posing, jumping etc. Most of the photos turned out blurry (per usual), but the ones I did get captured who she is at this fun age. (Sidenote, she wants to be a Power Ranger when she grows up).

She awoke to balloons, and a decorated kitchen on her actual birthday. He doorframe was also covered in streamers. I like to do small things like that to make them feel extra special on their birthday. We served cinnamon rolls, and we sang Happy Birthday to her, and then she opened her present. We got her a kindle, and she was so surprised. I love her expressions.

We celebrated the rest of the day at the Museum Center, and then the next day was party day. We did not have an all out party this year, but we invited family and a few friends to go ice skating with us. Mckinlee was totally into Frozen, and I thought that ice skating would be a great "frozen" activity. We all had fun skating. The kids held onto buckets to learn to skate, and they were all so cute. Mckinlee didn't last as long as the rest of us, but she had fun. Caleb was loving it, and he has asked me 100 times to go back already.

After ice skating our guests came to our house for a breakfast dinner (per Mckinlee's request). She played with friends, and opened her presents, and had a great time being celebrated.

Mckinlee-

At four years old you are so sassy and hilarious. You literally keep me laughing, second guessing, and shaking my head daily. You have such a personality. You have more personality in your tiny little body, than I can even fathom having. You are constantly making up songs and performing. I love that about you!! You are such a girly girl, but you can play Power Rangers alongside Caleb just as well as any boy. You love to read books and go to the library. You love pre school. You are learning so much from church, and you talk so sweetly about Jesus. You are obsessed with "the egg show" on you tube, and love to watch it during quiet time. You live on no sleep. You are the last one of the kids to fall asleep, and the first one to wake up. You think that as soon as the sun rises you are suppose to get out of bed. We are working on that one. That is not my favorite character trait that you possess. I could go on and on about you sweet girl. You hug me, kiss me and tell me you love me multiple times a day. You are totally into the stage where you are fearful that Nick or I will leave you right now. You do not get upset when we say bye to you, but when you hug me you will say "I love you, and I want you to stay with me forever, and never go to jail".....haha. I love you to pieces my little Princess. You are perfect, you are strong, you are beautiful, and you are amazing. I am so blessed to be your mom.

A Case of the Monday's

2015-02-04T15:05:00.001-05:00

This week has been very very low key, and honestly a little blah and stressful. Paxton has had a cold so we have basically skipped all outside activities, except the kids school this week. On top of that Nick has been working very late hours, so I have basically been a single mom. That makes for long days. I am also in the midst of trying to put the finishing touches on two birthday parties for this weekend, and I feel as though I am not getting anywhere. I think I have a case of the Mondays that will not go away even though it is Wednesday. We have some stresses weighing over my head, and I am just not in the best of moods. I have been turning to scripture for an attitude adjustment, and it is comforting. I keep repeating, "if this is your biggest worry, then it is not a worry"....however, sometimes even the small worries have a way of taking hold of all of you. Send out a prayer for me this week if you don't mind.

The brighter side of my week has been watching my little cuties be, well, CUTE! Caleb and Mckinlee are currently obsessed with the show Master Chef Junior. They have been playing it for days. They set Caleb's room up just like the show, complete with a pantry, work spaces, and plates/pots and pans divided. They come into the living room in a line, ask me what they are going to cook, make me push a button on a watch and say "Your time starts now", and then they race off to cook. They then bring me their dishes and explain what they have made. Kinlee likes to put a bunch of food in a bowl and call it soup, Caleb on the other hand is very methodical with his dishes. He brings them to me plated separately and explains each one. He then nods his head at me, and says Thank You Chef. The top bunk is their balcony where they watch the loser compete in the elimination competition...I mean they are just to much.

I have given my sweet tiny a ton of snuggles in between fighting him in order to clean his nose. Colds are no fun. Boogers are gross, and the combination is plain miserable.

Little miss celebrated her "fake birthday" at school yesterday. We packed cookies for a birthday treat, the class sang to her, and she thought she was big stuff. I am glad she felt celebrated, because she is amazing, and beautiful, and perfect and I can not believe she will be four on Friday. #inserthystericalcrying

So, wish me luck as I try to finish up party details, nurse babies back to health, plan for company, and check my bad attitude at the door. Remember, prayers are appreciated.

Super Random

2015-02-02T15:53:00.000-05:00

Last night we celebrated the Super Bowl at our house with a few friends. I will be 100% honest in saying I could care less about sports. However, I do love the food, and the socialization aspect of Super Bowl. So I basically talk, eat and ignore the game.

Caleb however, is becoming a huge sports fan and that makes Nick so happy. He was all about the Sea Hawks, and watched the Super Bowl pre game show on his own for over an hour. He even woke Nick up yesterday morning just to ask him who won the UK game the night before. Boy after his dads own heart right there. This morning he was trying to talk to me about sports, he doesn't yet realize that I could care less. If I have to listen to play by plays he is the one I want to hear it from though.

"Mom, all of our teams are done playing until next fall except Kentucky. I can't believe the "Sea Gulls" lost. Man, I really hope Kentucky doesn't lose because then we will have no sports to watch" #wecanonlyhope

At least I still have Kinlee. She could care less just like mama. Speaking of that wild girl, she looked so sweet and loving last night when I checked on her before bed. That girl can push my buttons throughout the day, but goodness watching her sleep brings so much love to my heart. She is so perfect, and even though she is strong willed she keeps my life interesting. She looked like such a little mama with her babies tucked beside her. That is a good thing since she told me she wants to
'have 9 babies with 9 daddies in college". #sheisnevergoingtocollege

Tiny tot has a cold, despite my best efforts of keeping germs at bay. He just has a runny nose, and is sleeping a little more than usual. We are laying low at home today, and I am hoping he will be on the mend come morning. His hair grows so fast, and he just got his second hair cut the other day. It was challenging because he was all over the place, but it was funny at the same time. He has also started for real crawling. I think he started about 2 weeks ago. He will for real crawl for a few strides and then go back to his army crawl because it is faster. I have been enjoying my snuggles with him as of late. His birthday is next week....I can not even believe that a year has already passed. Time is so fleeting.....motherhood really is the happiest, and saddest experience ever.

Mckinlee is also turning 4 this week!! FOUR!! I have 2 birthdays within a week of each other. I might as well lock myself in the closet now, and get my crying out. It seems like only yesterday she was turning one.

Fun Family Days

2015-01-26T14:47:00.001-05:00

We had the best weekend with the kids. Saturday we ventured to one of our local YMCA's for a FREE family fun day. We surprised the kids with an indoor water park adventure, and they were so excited. We spent hours swimming, splashing in fountains, floating through the lazy river, and just enjoying time together. It was a fun activity that we will be sure to do more often this winter. It also made the children sleep so well, which is always a win in my book!

I was so close to getting a picture of all of them looking at me. So close......

Yesterday, Nick and I had a lunch date with the Hartke's and then we tried to go see American Sniper. Unfortunately it was sold out. We were all super bummed, and the sitter could not stay long enough for us to watch the later showing. We decided to improvise, and the guys went to watch it first while us girls kept the kids. When the guys got back Michelle and I went to watch it while they took care of the kids. It worked out great, and we have vowed to do that more often. The movie was amazing. Sad, patriotic, heartbreaking, scary....it is a must see.

Today we awoke to a little bit of snow. There wasn't much on the ground, but it was enough to keep us inside all day. I swore we were going to the gym this morning, but it looked way too cold out, so we skipped. Instead, the kids and I whipped up a fun sensory activity for their water table, and they spent hours playing with it. (5 cups flour, 1 cup oil, and a few sprinkles of cinnamon- apple pie mix). They made and "cooked" lots of apple pie cupcakes, added sprinkles, and blew out pretend candles. I am sure after quiet time they will be right back at it.

January

2015-01-21T15:28:00.004-05:00

These past couple of weeks have been filled with us getting back into normal life. Kids are going to school, moms group at church has started back, and I just started going back to the gym today. It has been a great month so far, and it has even given us a few nice days of weather.

Wednesday Mckinlee does not go to school, so we have made a new habit of going to the gym, and then heading to the library for story time. Her and Paxton really enjoy the class that is offered on Wednesday mornings. Paxton, is really becoming quite mobile and adventurous now, and he was all over the place this morning during class. He was crawling up to kids, sitting with them, trying to pull up on random parents. I spent a lot of my time bringing him back to our seat.....#andsoitbegins.

It felt great to get back in the gym this morning. I had put our membership on hold for 3 months to get us through traveling and the Holidays. Despite my best effort I did not work out very much during those three months. I felt how out of shape I am now this morning, but it felt good to make the effort to get back at it. I am not focusing on losing weight. I would love to tone up, but mostly I am just focusing on creating a healthy lifestyle. I want to be healthy for myself and my family.

Paxton grew up over the weekend. He went from barely pulling up, to pulling up on everything. He also started walking behind his push walker, and has even taken his hands off to balance a couple of times. He is also cruising all over the furniture. He is still mostly army crawling, but this weekend he for real crawled a few times. My baby :(.

The kids really enjoyed getting out of the house and playing outside the past few days. They rode their bikes non stop, and I think it was good for all of us to get a little vitamin D.

Nick and I enjoyed a fun date night, and I made sure to have some fun with my big man before we left.

A New Year, A New Start

2015-01-08T15:20:00.003-05:00

I am finally caught up on the blog, and I feel as though I am ready to start blogging about daily life again. I have missed doing so. I will probably not blog every day, but I am going to try to make a weekly commitment. I miss it. I know I will also regret not having this time recorded. I love looking back on past posts, and I don't want to stop now.

With that being said. Our first week of January was a lot of fun. School started back, we had friends visit, we had some fun outings. So far this year is off to a great start.

School started back on Tuesday, and after school Caleb was in tears. He told me that 2 of his friends had been mean to him, and that he played by himself most of the day. I can tell you right now that the mama bear in me came out. I wanted nothing more than to cuss some bratty kids out, but instead we had a talk about how kids can be mean. I told him that it is more fun to play with kids that treat us nice, and that maybe he should try to distance himself from the kids that hurt his feelings. (it was a hard parenting moment).

To cheer everyone up we went to the museum with the Pickett's. The kids had a blast.

While Caleb was at school on Wednesday the two younger ones and I went to the library. We met some friends there and attended a story time. It was a nice relaxing activity that kept us out of the frigid weather.

There is not much else to report this week. I am currently deep cleaning/lysoling every inch of the house in an attempt to keep sickness at bay. The kids are becoming used to their afternoon bath time, and vitamins are being given. Here is to hoping we can remain healthy.

I am also in the process of planning Mckinlee and Paxton's birthday celebrations. They will both be on the same weekend. #joysofclosebirthdays #notjoystress. Hopefully they will get more than a cupcake each :).

Paxton 10 Months

2015-01-08T15:10:00.000-05:00

My sweet boy is almost 11 months, so I figured I better hurry and get this update up.

Sleeping: You are sleeping much much better now. About once a week we will have a night where you have issues going down, but once you are down you are sleeping through the night (please don't jinx me). You sleep until around 7:30, eat, and go back to sleep for another hour or so. You are napping 2 times a day.

Eating: You are basically over purees. I still give them to you on occasion out of convenience, but you prefer table food. The only food you do not like so far is banana's, watermelon, and cantaloupe.

Size: You were 17 lbs at your last appointment. You are mostly in 9-12 month clothing, and a size 3 diaper.

Teeth: You have 3 teeth now. The 2 front bottom, and 1 front top.

Speech: You say Mama and Dada.

Exciting New Things:

You like to point at stuff and say "Uh Uh". You like for us to tell you the name of the object you are pointing at.
You are pulling up consistently on low objects, and trying so hard to pull up on higher objects.
You are starting to test your boundaries. We will tell you no, and you will smirk and do it anyway. It is so stinking cute....as of now.
You are obsessed with attacking Bella.
Caleb can still make you laugh the best.
You are starting to get a little stranger danger.
You cry after daddy now.
You hug my neck so hard and plant big kisses on me now. I love it!

You are perfect, and adorable, and content, and sweet, and PERFECT! We love you so much sweet baby.

Christmas/New Years 2014

2015-01-08T12:44:00.004-05:00

We had a nice, relaxing, loving holiday season this year. The kids received more gifts than they knew what to do with, we had fun with family, and we had some amazing dinners. It was Paxton's first Christmas as well, which is always such a sweet first.

Christmas Eve morning after the kids woke up, we had a big Christmas breakfast at our home. After breakfast we let them open the gifts from us. We had told them in advance that they would only get a few small gifts from us since we had taken them to Disney. They were perfectly fine with that, and were happy with what they received. We mostly bought them board games, and art stuff. We spent a few hours after gifts playing their new games with them.

After games we built a gingerbread house. The kids had fun with this, but I think they enjoyed eating the candy more :).

We then got ready, and headed to our church Christmas Eve service. The kids came to service with us, and had fun shaking glow sticks while hearing the Christmas story.

Christmas Eve night was spent with Nick's family. We had a big family get together, and the kids put out the cookies and milk for Santa, and went to bed.

Christmas morning they awoke to see what Santa brought them. They each received the three gifts from Santa that they asked for.

After Santa gifts, they opened gifts from Nick's family, we had a big breakfast, and then spent the day together. We played a lot of play dough and board games.

My family came to celebrate a few days later. We had a dinner at my house, and the kids enjoyed opening gifts from my family.

New years was lazy. We went to a friends house, in pj's and hung out until the ball dropped. We then headed home, and quickly went to bed.

Thanksgiving 2014

2014-12-10T15:11:00.003-05:00

A few days before Thanksgiving the kids had their preschool Thanksgiving performance and potluck. They both sang and danced, and it was adorable of course! We then enjoyed a meal together. Nick and Meemaw were able to attend so the kids were thrilled with that.

We then headed out of town once again to Virginia to spend Thanksgiving with Dad and Sherry. We spent the weekend on a farm, and had so much fun. Paxton loved Thanksgiving dinner, and did not stop eating! That night us girls went black Friday shopping, and we were gone the entire night. By the time we arrived home I had been awake for over 24 hours. Sleep felt amazing!

On Satu

Saturday we went to a town plaza for an Elf on the Shelf hunt. All the participating businesses hid an elf within their store, and kids could go from store to store and have their paper stamped once they found the elf. Santa was also there to take photos with. We all had such a good time. Papaw also took Caleb shooting for the first time. My dad has already started Caleb's gun collection so they were testing them out. Meanwhile I was having a mild heart attack, but Caleb loved it. Kinlee hid in the truck and covered her ears (my child).

The elf brought the kids elf pajamas one morning

We finished off the weekend playing games, and hanging out. It was a great first Thanksgiving in Virginia.