The Hamilton House

Ana's 1st Day of 2nd Grade

2011-11-09T14:12:00.001-06:00

Our baby was excited to begin a new school year in a new place and make some new friends.

I found this shirt at Goodwill. Sunset Ridge Falcons. It got us in the spirit!

She is growing up right before our eyes.

She changed shoes (because she likes to make me crazy). They were fine when she wore them through the mall, but suddenly they are too uncomfortable to bare. The TOMS were sold on ebay.

Ms. Ashley VanDeventer is her teacher. She's getting married in February and will become Mrs. Noland. Ana says that she is "very nice and the prettiest."

Ana had a wonderful first day. She made fast friends and is doing so well. We are very proud of her courage and excellent transition.

A Few Faves

2011-11-09T13:38:00.000-06:00

Love this fun photo of Ana's class & teach at their school carnival. Took so many great ones that day! Fun memories.

Our beautiful first born. At age 7 you get frustrated with the way so many people compliment how cute your little sister is. What you don't realize is that all of your cute has gone. Now you are just beautiful. Gorgeous. Stunning. Beautiful.

And, here's a little more cuteness in our family. Don't know that anyone will ever call Jazzy beautiful, but you can't help but call her cute. She really is such a good doggy (I'm sure she just ate Kate's dinner).

Last sleepover with Maddy B. before the move.

Maddy is the first real BFF that Ana made all on her own. Meaning, I didn't know her mom before they met. This was Maddy's first year at Collegeville. She and Ana hit it off in Mrs. Shaw's class pretty quickly. I've loved watching their friendship grow. It is a special one and we will miss her.

Home Is Where the Heart Is, Right?

2011-11-09T13:18:00.002-06:00

After three house hunting trips to Overland Park, we picked this one!

I could take better pictures, but these are already uploaded onto the computer and I'm in a hurry to catch up on this blog so here we go...

This Willow is a staple in the neighborhood. Everyone knows our house as the house with their "favorite tree." It quickly became our favorite, too! In fact, there is another one in the back yard and that was THE selling point for Ana.

We sit kind of up on a hill. About to get a new roof in this pic.

Lower level flag stone patio (and fire pit). This door is a walk-out from the basement that we hope to finish in the future. No one has fences toward the cul-da-sac and the kids just run from one back yard into the next. And, there are A LOT of kids!

There is also an upper level deck that stands off of the kitchen/living area and overlooks the backyard. This mess of tree bed is cleared out now into a flower bed with the girls' outdoor table and sand box. That little pine tree by the staircase is gone too.

I really hope to get around to updating the pics and taking some of the inside now that we are mostly settled. HOPE.

Not Goodbye

2011-11-09T11:08:00.000-06:00

Big News! After much thinking and praying, applying, interviewing, visiting and praying some more...Jake accepted a new position with Verizon in Kansas City, KS. We were really nervous about telling Ana. REALLY nervous. Had we known how much her reaction would surprise us we would've video taped it! She was initially thrilled. Like, when you're on vacation and want to stay there forever. Beyond excited! A few minutes later the reality set in and she began to realize how much she was going to miss her family and her friends. And, what finally brought a few very mature tears was how much they were going to miss her. She said, "When I get to Kansas City I will be distracted by all of the fun things to do there and my friends are still going to be missing me." And, that brought my first tears as well. I love her adventureous spirit. She is such a special girl. She was so positive all the way.

Last day of 1st Grade. We have loved Collegeville so much!

Ana and her principal, Mrs. Thomas

We have loved Mrs. Shaw so much. She gives the best hugs.

Mrs. Doan (Ana's KG teacher) about broke my heart. She teared up in the hallway the first time she saw us after finding out we were moving. She is so upset about missing Ana and not getting Kate for Kindergarten. You never know...we could be back by then!

Ana & Ella Grace holding hands in the hallway. Heart Wrenching.

Talent Show 2010

2011-11-09T10:44:00.000-06:00

Walkin' On Sunshine...WHOA!!!

The 3 Amigos added one of their favorite peeps to the talent show mix this year.

Madison Bailey was THE PERFECT SUNSHINE! She really topped it off!

Ana & Friends brought down the house again. So much work goes into preparing a good 1st grade act. It wasn't much easier than preparing a kindergarten act, despite my prayers. My child hates to be taught by me. She has since she was my 2 year-old Kindermusik student. But, every year she wants to do Talent Show and I will never allow her to fly by the seat of her pants...so we duke it out and work it out and it always turns out to be the cutest thing ever. But, we work for it! And, I suppose it is always worth every hour of borderline breakdown. I love her to pieces. She is so wonderful on a stage...a true ray of SUNSHINE! She had amazing family support in the audience and I have so many wonderful pics. We are always so proud of our little superstar!

Lake Fun with the Rileys

2011-10-10T13:46:00.000-05:00

We've been going to the lake with Clay and Lana for years. The abundance of children changes the pace of things just a bit. A different kind of fun! ;)

On our way home we stopped at a couple of fishing spots on the Little Red River.

This face reminds me so much of the pic that Raye Law took of her when she was three.

Easter 2011

2011-09-01T10:21:00.007-05:00

Church Egg Hunt

The cuteness.

Lovin' the giant bouncy slide. Kate didn't so much love the burn down her elbow from sliding it all the way down. Ouch!

Dying some eggs in my fluffy high pony.

It's hard work.

So pretty.

How did we make such beauty?

Admiring her Hello Kitty egg. She's a fan!

Love her enthusiasm! I wish it would last forever.

Daddy changed before I could capture the family photo. Still handsome nonetheless!

TX Spring Break Vacation

2011-09-01T09:15:00.007-05:00

We started our Spring Break vacation at Great Wolf Lodge. The kids enjoyed the indoor water park (Jake and I also enjoyed a few big slides!), glitter tattoos, story times, too much dessert...

Kate went down the kiddie slide one bajillion times...
Ana thoroughly enjoyed The Magic Quest.

and did some Arts & Crafts.

Then we made our way to Grapevine, TX to Fossil Rim, which was recommeded by Ana's first grade teacher when she realized what an animal lover she had on her hands.

When we arrived we drove through the safari in our own car. We spent the night in the lodge, had breakfast on site and took the guided safari tour the next morning.

We saw WAY more animals! The animals recognize that safari bus like the ice cream truck! They know it brings the snacks and they come running our of the woodwork!

We took our YaYa!

Fed some giraffes out of the palm of our hands! Nothing short of a majestic experience seeing one of these so close.

We just happen to pass through Hamilton, TX by surprise!

And, we headed to Sea World in San Antonio!

Someone(s) sat too close to the splash zone! Not Mommy! She doesn't take chances like that!

Kate was licking salt water off her lips!

We had dinner at the Rainforest Cafe on the Riverwalk.

And, went back for more. Can't get enough dolphin feeding!

We had great fun!

And, made lasting memories!

March

2011-08-31T12:37:00.004-05:00

Ana turned SEVEN!

Very hard to swallow. She's growing up so fast.

Ana, you are such a beautiful girl inside and out. You have always been our free spirit and your Daddy and I love you exactly as God made you. You are as stubborn as they come, dramatic, wild, smart, fun, friendly and social, outgoing, passionate for animals, outdoorsy, energetic, entertaining...Your teachers love you and you always make an impression. You are light where ever you go. We are so proud of you. Everyday.

For her party this year we took just her closest girls from school for a Girls' Day Out. We took them to Build-A-Bear Workshop at the mall followed by Cupcakes on Kavanaugh. They had a blast!

Happy 7th Birthday, Big Girl. You are so special.

Lauren Baker, Lawson Godwin, Scarlet Matlock, Madison Baily, Ana and Ella Grace Pengelly

February

2011-08-31T10:58:00.010-05:00

Ana and Daddy attended their 2nd annual Valentine Ball sponsored by our church.

They spent time making a corsage and boutonniere for eachother earlier that day from fancy pipe cleaners. I may have helped a little. :)

Ana has grown and changed so much in a year.

Valentine Ball 2010

Valentine Ball 2011

A couple of weeks before Valentine's Day Kate decided to trip for no good reason, fall into a door hinge AND KNOCK OUT HER FRONT TOOTH. I could recall that moment in a play by play, but I'm quite sure it is burned into my memory for all time. So...

About a week or two later she falls into the corner of our footboard (which is pretty much like the corner of a coffee table...she WAS running this time) and gets a horrible goose egg on her brow line accompanied by a lovely straight line bruise down the side of her face. Equally painful and traumatic (for both of us). I shoud've put a bath robe on her and taken a picture as Baby Tyson. She looked horrible. She continues to be very clumsy and I continue to have constant anxiety every time she takes off at a speed greater than that of an 90 year old woman.

Life went on...Valentine's Day came.

I made Love Potion for the class party with Hawaiian Punch packets and water bottles. The kids loved it!

Here's Baby Boxer with her gappy grin.

Everyone still thinks Kate looks just like her YaYa (minus a tooth)!

Kate and Harper went to Barney Live!

It was a blast! Mandy and I enjoyed watching them as much at they enjoyed watching Barney. They danced their little hearts out. Precious! We met Barney before the show and Kate got to go on stage and give Barney his birthday card. Harper was not nearly as big a fan up close she just clapped for her.

January

2011-08-31T10:25:00.004-05:00

It snowed! The girls named the snow girl Sasha (If I remember correctly).

...

Ella Grace and Melody came over to watch the Miss America pageant. The girls dressed up and walked the runway. They had a blast and EG got to spend the night!

The girls at the lunch table.

Taking home some trophies for READING!

We sold the trusty Honda. Jake and I bought that right before we graduated college and got married. Daddy got a JEEP!

Year in Review

2011-08-31T10:08:00.003-05:00

I let it happen again! I've almost let an entire year go by without blogging. I hate that. I'll try to recall a few major events of the past nine months and then start fresh. It'll probably help if I look through some pics so...here goes:

Of course, there was Christmas!

It was magical, most wonderful time of the year-ish as always. Please see "Christmas 2011" folder for details. HA!

Moving on...

More November

2011-01-03T14:52:00.002-06:00

Kate all ready for Taylor Hill's "nastics" party! One of many pieces worn by Alex Fowler, then Ana and now Kate. So cute!

A very impressive face painting courtesy of Awana.

Thanksgiving school project/contest going along with a book they read...The Great Turkey Race, maybe?. Take this turkey and dress it up so that it gets chosen for Thanksgiving. I think the turkeys in the story had the wrong idea. It was due the next day and we didn't get started until close to her typical bed time due to gymnastics that evening.

There were craft supplies everywhere, but we came up with this. Contestant #8 (seen on the hair bow), which is Ana's number in class, at the mic at what might appear to be a beauty pageant. Ana took first prize. She was quite proud.

Kate has been casually potty training for some time. I got so frustrated with this endeavour with Ana (who found it to be a source of power) that I decided not to take it so seriously this time around. It'll happen, right? Kate pretty much runs around naked from the waist down when we are home and goes to the potty pretty much every time she needs to on her own accord. However, when you put anything on her bottom, she'll go in it without hesitation 9 times out of 10. She may hate me for this one day, but it's too cute not to post! HA!

Ana's Nature Adventure with Daddy

2011-01-03T14:03:00.005-06:00

On Jake's birthday weekend he took Ana to Webber (a.k.a. the camp), a rugged little place on the White River where he grew up hunting, fishing and making memories with his family. Our little nature lover enjoyed the great ourdoors and several days of one-on-one with her daddy very much.

They took their bikes and rode some trails (with no training wheels I should add! She's been without those for a little while now).

They spent some time and dollars in the museum and gift shop. Ana picked out a raccoon for Kate. :)

They looked for birds and deer in their very rugged jeep.

They did some hiking and tracking...and who knows what else. Daddy seemed to enjoy his little tomboy just as much as she enjoyed being one! So glad they have this memory.

Sweet girl. You should know that sometimes I watch you sleep and just marvel at how beautiful you are.

Kate and I like the camera!

Thank you, Bobby Landreth, for these amazing forehead wrinkles! They say wisdom on a man, but BOTOX on a lady.

Also in November...Mommy got out with her girls for dinner at Cafe Loredo and to see WICKED! It was the best live production I have ever seen. I had a blast with my girls (and couldn't help but think how much Ana would've loved it. :))

Trick-or-Treat 2010

2010-11-05T12:12:00.004-05:00

PEACOCKS!

So, I came through on the peacock costumes this year. It's Ana's animal of the moment. She draws pics of them all the time. Her first idea was Daphne (she is a big Scooby Doo fan). I must admit that as much as I enjoy designing Halloween costumes, this was a pretty busy month for me and I was a little happy at the thought of a costume in a bag. Daphne and Velma would be cute, right? I could embellish them a bit, Daddy could be Fred, Jazzy--Shaggy and we could find a stuffed Scoob to carry along. Then came the peacock idea and A's heart was totally invested in it. And, as much as I tried to convince myself to make her settle, I just couldn't do it. So...several trips to Hobby Lobby and many feathers and hot glue burns later...WE HAD PEACOCKS! Ana was very concerned that this was a large endeavor and that I needed to recruit Daddy to help me. And, I needed to work on them after putting them to bed and get up early and work on them before getting her off to school and while she was at school and every other moment that did not involve caring for her in the course of my day (and night). Sweet girl...I told you I'd get it done. Anything for you, Kiddos.

I tried to convice Kate to be a flamingo instead, but she likes to be like her Sissy. Baby peacocks are cute! Anytime anyone asked her what she was going to be for Halloween she was so proud to tell them that she was going to be a peacock just like her Sissy!

Pappy arrived in this disguise, hunched over and walking up the street (he parked in the distance). I stood there and watched him walk up to our house and start asking Ana for some candy. I was totally freaked out and assumed it was someone we might know, but had no idea it was my dad until Ana started saying "Pappy! I know it's you!" When I asked her later if she recognized his voice (he was talking in a gravely monster voice) she said, "No, I recognized his smell. Pappy always smells good like he just took a shower!" HA! He is a lover of cologne!
This is Ana giving Pappy the "you don't scare me!" look.

Ana and Ella Grace! Kate loved that EG was a cupcake and she still talks about it.

Luigi, Mushroom and Mario Eisele. How cute are they? Any child of the 90s loves the Super Mario comeback! There were several of these imposters on the street, but none as cute as these with a mushroom baby!

Ana & Graham (and Thomas :)). Trick-or-Treat buddies.

Some say I look like my YaYa!

Ana's Pumpkin. Daddy has carving skills!

Kate's Pumpkin. They each picked out their design from a kit that Grandma B gave Jake for his birthday! :)

Love that the Green girls joined us this year! Emma and Grant came later too!

Two of my favorite ladies in this world.

So glad you joined us for trick-or-treating, GiGi!

Thanks, Grandma B!

Trick-or Treating Grandma Buffalo! Bummed they closed their eyes for this pic, but they were gone before I could get another.

Ana, I hope this peacock was everything you hoped it would be!

Kate and her buddy, Grant.

Trick-or-Treating Mrs. Shaw (Ana's 1st grade teacher)!

"Happy Halloweeeeeen!!!"

"I'm not tired. I could do this all night."

Happy Halloween 2010! It was a crazy chaotic cluster of fun as always!

Pumpkin Carving

2010-11-03T14:23:00.008-05:00

Bryant celebrated Halloween on Saturday even though the 31st was on Sunday, because the city passed an ordinance (or whatever). The weather was beautiful and we carved and painted pumpkins after lunch. They carved, I photographed.

Our very own JACK-O-LANTERN!

They definitely look like sisters from this angle.

Then everyone rested before the Trick-0r-Treat madness ensued...

Sixties Day

2010-11-03T14:18:00.001-05:00

Red Ribbon Week at school.

First Grade Field Trip

2010-11-03T13:53:00.005-05:00

Jennifer, Madison W., Monica, Madison B., & Ana

The first graders recently took a field trip to the AR Arts Center (Children's Theater) to see an original production of The Giant and the Beanstalk.

I chaperoned and this is my "buddy" group. Such fun little girls. I am so grateful to be able to do these things with Ana.

Ana, Monica & Madison B.

Madison is new to Collegeville this year. She and Ana hit it off right away!

Mrs. Shaw and her adoring students.

Annalise, Ana & Olivia

After the play, they picnicked and played at Mill's Park.

Big girl was worn smooth out.

Big Girl Gets A Big Surprise

2010-11-03T13:20:00.004-05:00

Or very good friend, David Nail, is opening on tour for Lady Antebellum. HUGE! They did a show in Jonesboro Oct. 1st and Jake and I decided to pick up Ana from school, bags packed and take her on a surprise overnighter. Just the three of us.

She made it very clear that she was going to be disappointed if she didn't get to see "Uncle David" (in person) before we left. But, it was a huge show and we couldn't make any promises since he is from the area and had many family and friends in attendance.

So we found the tour bus (and this fancy trailer that pulls the equipment), but he wasn't on it. As we were photographing Ana here...

He came walking out of a nearby building, saw us and scooped her up! She was elated!
And I think he was too.

She even got to go on the bus!

And, sit in his lap while we all visited for awhile. She glowed and could not stop thanking us for her very special surprise "vacation" for at least two days!

Sunday Funday

2010-11-03T12:56:00.002-05:00

One beautiful Sunday afternoon in September we took the jeep for a cruise and picnicked at the park. I'm so very grateful for this family and these times.
Loves of my life!

Girls and their walking sticks on the trail.

KK on the slide

Ana and her "natures."

Salt Bowl 2010

2010-11-03T07:13:00.002-05:00

Ana, Lawson, Ella, Scarlet AND Cotton Candy
Painfully shy, aren't they?

Scarlet & Ana...growing up before our very eyes.

And, just because it's sweet...

Ana the Gymnist

2010-11-03T07:00:00.002-05:00

Ana started gymnastics again in September. She took the year before last, but is now in a big girl class and although it proves to be tough and uncomfortable for her some days, she says that she likes it. I think she is a little motivated by her teacher's daughter who is the State Champion and nationally recognized, who takes at the same gym. She has tried just about everything over the last several years and I am hoping she is ready to stick to one that she loves. We shall see.

Ana A. Hamilton, First Grader At Last

2010-09-08T08:42:00.003-05:00

Mrs. Shaw and Ana at Open House. I loved her when she got teary and promised to "above all else love our kids."

Traditional Chocolate Chip Muffin Breakfast

Ana A. Hamilton, First Grader At Last (we're reading the Junie B. series at home! :) )

She took an apple to Mrs. Shaw and Mrs. Doan

"First Grade Rocks!"

Goodbye, sweet Kindergarten tables. Hello, big kid desks.

I took this through the window/door before I forced myself to leave. She gave me a look like, "Seriously, Mom! Get out of here!"

She asked me to come for lunch so we did. Kate loves to go see Sissy at school. When she wakes up from her nap, she says, "I won go pick up Sissy" in her sleepiest pout. I also hear thoughout the day, "Where my Sissy? (even though if you ask her where she is she'll tell you "At school. My Sissy's in first grade.") I want her."

It was a good day!

We missed her!

I am so excited to see how much she will grow and learn this year. I expect it to be a big acedemic year for her, so although I am sad that I cannot slow down this life, I have such pride in watching her bloom.

Lemon Aid for Animals

2010-09-01T13:48:00.005-05:00

Our sweet Ana is an animal activist. I don't know if she gets her inspiration from the Disney Channel or school or what, but she has a heart for animals and is making a difference in her own little way. She began this project at the end of Kindergarten. She came home from MiMi and Paw Paw's with a pledge sheet that she had created to raise money to "help animal habitats." She wanted to plant trees, build bird houses, etc. She took the sheet to school on Monday (I told her not to ask anyone for money!) and her teacher Mrs. Doan let her go to all of the Kindergarten and 1st Grade teachers to share her cause. They all contributed and she came home with several more dollars. This summer she knocked on a few neighbors' doors. And, finally we set up a lemonade stand (with principal permission) at school on the day that class assignments were posted. When Ana heard about the oil spill this summer she immediately got very upset and expressed her concern for the ocean animals. That's when she decided that she wanted to send her money to help those animals in need.

"Hold on...I'm not ready!"

"OK. Now!"

She raised about $30 all by her six-year-old self. We couldn't be more proud of her! Mommy & Daddy might be able to match her donation before she sends it in to the World Wildlife Federation's Oil Spill Relief Fund.

WAY TO GO, ANA!

And, we have spent some really hot time this summer picking up litter and trash so the animals don't get sick or harmed. Dedicated.

Kate's 1st Haircut

2010-09-01T13:38:00.002-05:00

Kate has been asking to get her hair cut the last couple of times we took Ana. I decided it would be good to trim it across the back to even it up some and she was too excited!

So proud to finally have her turn in the chair.

You could tell it was pulling a little, but she never moved an inch or made a peep...just a face.

Feeling Beautimous!

Fowler Friends

2010-08-21T13:39:00.003-05:00

We got a sweet invite recently to go hang out with our friends by their pool on a Sunday afternoon. The kids swam and swam and then we went to dinner at the PVCC grill (kinda like old times with the addition of my kids!). Love this Fowler/McDaniel family!

CJ is so grown up and mature and such an amazing boy...young man. So proud of him.

Pretty Alex. She and Ana are a little over two years apart, but pretty much the same size. :)

Kate has discovered that she loves goggles (like her Sissy).

Alex (9), CJ (11), Kate (2) and Ana (6)

delicious.

Post-Op Check-Up

2010-07-16T13:55:00.002-05:00

We went to see Dr. Miller this morning for Ana's post-op check-up (2 weeks yesterday). The first thing he said was, "She looks like her daddy." I guess he noticed when he met Jake before/after surgery. Ana scowled b/c she thinks that means she looks like a boy! LOL! Daddy is a very pretty boy so that's a good thing, I tell her. After looking in her throad and up her nose he said that she looked better than great! Excellent! She's healed very very well and will continue to over the next six weeks, but is released from his care to go live it up. He also said, "The money was in her adenoids! They were huge!" "Bigger than you anticipated going in?," I asked. He said, "Yes!" And, then explained how he goes in through the mouth and looks at the adenoids with a mirror pointing up though the nose. He said that they were so big that he couldn't see past them AT ALL, which is apparently not normal. When I asked how large on a scale of 1-10 he immediately said 10!" He said that they looked enlarged in the x-ray, but she was probably leaning forward into the machine and they were much larger in reality than in the film. I am so glad that I listened to my mommy intuition. I really feel like we made the right decision and she says how much better she can breathe through her nose already! I can't imagine how great that feels for her. Sure feels good for me! :) Her room is silent at night. I have to get right down into her face to see that she's breathing! It's beautiful!

T & A

2010-07-07T11:11:00.006-05:00

No, Pervs! It's short for tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy. Ana suffered it last Thursday, July 1st.

Here is our patient ready for her surgical debut. We got new Paul Frank jammies to try to make some fun of it. Tangerine (the monkey) got to go into the OR with her.
Here are her other "big eye animals" sitting in the waiting room. This pic I took on my phone to show her afterward.

She once again proved herself AMAZING! She was pretty much excited about it, telling everyone that she would be having it done. The night before at bed time, which is often her time to express concern of any kind, she said she was getting a little scared. We talked it out. I tried very hard to be very honest so that she would know what to expect without any scary surprises...without making it too scary upfront. She got a tad nervous walking into the surgery center, but overcame. Her anesthesiologist was quite funny and kid-friendly, which relaxed her and she followed him right into her OR with her big-eyed monkey, Tangerine, and a smile. The rest of us waited for about 25 minutes and they were calling us back to recovery.

They sat me down in a recliner and laid her in my arms while she woke up. That was the hardest part of it all. She was moaning and squirming around saying "I want to go home." She woke up very well according to the recovery room nurse. He said it is typically much more like what we were hearing around us, which was terrified screaming and physical fighting. The 13-year-old girl at the end room was screaming as if she were being tortured. It was awful! She could not snap out of that anesthesia and I thought they were going to have to restrain her before she hurt herself. I hope her parents weren't in there to witness that (I couldn't tell). Once Ana kind of woke up good they gave her some pain medicine by mouth and she relaxed and fell asleep on my chest. Then she puked all down my shirt! Thank you, Jenny Manning, for telling me to bring an extra! That was excellent advice and the nurses were impressed with my preparation! :) She threw up 3 more times before we left and once in the car on the way home (we came prepared for that too with a Tupperware bowl!). We barely made it out of the parking lot before she asked to call Scarlet! Um..."OK." I started to say no, but I thought, if you feel like calling Scarlet then you call Scarlet, Little Champ! Kellee answered and I could hear the surprise in her voice to hear Ana's on the other end. Hilarious! She spontaneously puked the rest of the day, but was feeling no pain. She ate and drank really well. I gave her sips of something every 10-15 minutes per friendly advice and I'm pretty sure she has been the most miraculous T & A patient of all time. She does not complain! I've stopped waking her at night for pain med so she wakes up sore in the mornings, but gets the med down and is feeling great in mere minutes.

Resting with Sissy (watching the new Alice in Wonderland for the 1000th time)

This one is from my phone too, but love how Jasmine is right there with her.

She's taking Hydrocodone and we did have one strange episode with it. She was laying with her daddy in our bed. They had been asleep for about an hour and I was watching tv in the living room. I heard her talking pretty loudly and ran back there to see what woke her (in case she was puking in my bed!). Her eyes were wide open but she was talking crazy. She said something like, "This is Kate's world. They want me and Kate and it scares me." I tried to tell her she was dreaming and she harshly told me that she WAS NOT! I tried to wake her out of it, with no luck and then she waved her hands in front of her face in my dark bedroom and said, "WHOA! I cannot read any of that!" as if she were trying to read a sign or words on a computer screen. Totally freaked me out. Jake is snoring beside her so I shake him to wake up but she had gone back to sleep. Thankfully. When I wake her up for medicine doses I can tell that she is having hard strange dreams, but no more hallucinations like that. CREEPY!

We have been AMAZED! Per the ENT and friends who have recently suffered this operation we were expecting severe episodes of pain, tears and misery, but we have stayed on top of our pain medication with good advice and the hardest part is keeping her still. I've got sacks full of surprises that I pull out when bordem sets in. Her friends and family have been so very sweet to bring by gifts and flowers and balloons and ice cream and soup and lots of lovin. She said, "I just can't believe how many people are thinking of me and bringing me things. That just makes me feel so special to know that they are thinking about me."

We had only been home for a couple of hours (maybe) when Melody called asking if they could drop something at the door, but Ana was all up for visitors and posing as usual (between vomiting episodes) just out of surgery. Crazy girl!

PJ/Movie morning with Scarlet

(Ana, you had visits from Ella Grace, Max & Maddie, Scarlet, Emma & Grant, CJ & Alex, Sarah and Justin and of course...all of the grandparents. Your friend, Lawson Godwin, sent flowers and the "special delivery" was quite exciting. So much love poured on you!)

It's Day 6 post-0p and we are good! We are so proud of you, Ana! You are one tough cookie!

Sleep Study

2010-06-25T09:58:00.005-05:00

Making friends with the other kiddos while they waited to be taken to the sleep clinic.
Let's do it!

Snacking and watching Barbie and the Nutcracker.

Miss Keena hookin' her up. She was our really sweet tech who observed Ana on video and audio all night. She called Ana "Bunches."

Like WHOA!

She LOVED being part of an experiment. The little boy next door was screaming for his DaDa to save him. I don't think any of it was painful at all, just scary looking and uncomfortable. I'm pretty sure Ana was the best patient ever.

She loved the pulse ox monitor on her finger. We just saw Toy Story 3 on Sunday and I think it made her feel like Buzz Lightyear.

I have no idea how she slept at all, but she did. She woke up at 3 AM to go to the restroom and told me that she wasn't sleeping well, because it was hard to get comfortable. She wanted to roll onto her tummy and couldn't with the wires.

They woke us up and unhooked her at 5:45 AM. It was about 60 degrees in there and we were freezing. They kept it cold to keep the kids from sweating the glue off. It went well and she thought it was fun. We were so tired the next day!

We're waiting to hear results. We are seeing another ENT on Monday and depending on his opinion could be having tonsils and adenoids removed on Thursday. We saw the orthodontist (Uncle Jim) last week who not only said that her teeth were going to be jacked up (and we will probably have to pull some in the future to make room for the rest), but took an x-ray of the side of her face showing that her adenoids were "HUGE!" Of course, I'm anxious about having the surgery, but I'm also all for opening my baby's airway. What a big difference that could make in her quality of life.

We're Off To See The Wizard!

2010-06-25T09:47:00.002-05:00

We saw the traveling Broadway show at Robinson with friends after dinner at The Purple Cow. It was a great Mommy date night!

You Can Call Me "TROUBLE"

2010-06-25T09:04:00.002-05:00

Kate is such a mess right now. A natural disaster! I walked into the living room this week to smell the unapproved scent of nail polish. I find Kate sitting on the hardwood floor in Ana's art apron painting her toe nails (toes to be more accurate). "I painting MYSELF!!!" she said so proudly. The found Ana's polish box that I'm not sure why she could reach, and had at least six polish bottles in the apron pocket. She opened them by herself and went to work. I cleaned it up and thought I had it all when I found her several minutes later on the sofa painting her fingers...and an opened bottle running down the leather sofa. Leather has been great for so many things, but nail polish isn't one of them. The remover removes the stain. Sigh.
But, she was so proud of herself. Here she is telling Mady all about her big self. That's a sticker on her forehead.

Florida Beach...get it while you can!

2010-06-10T10:38:00.015-05:00

We left Friday evening (after graduation and David Nail's LR show) for Ft. Walton, Florida. So thankful that we were able to experience the beautiful shore before the oil made it there. My heart breaks for those poor people.

We made it following an overnight stay in Jackson, MS. Jake took us through some really shady country to get there, but we made it to what turned out to be a beautiful hotel in downtown Jackson that he scored with some business points. Ana felt like Eloise when she walked in. She was so excited. Kate was wired for sound from riding all day and I didn't think we were ever going to get her to lie down. We made it to our condo early Saturday evening and ran right out to the beach.

This was Kate's first trip. If we heard, "I GO BEACH, NOW!" once...we heard it a thousand times! She loved it!

Always thankful to have the YaYa along for the ride! We always enjoy her company and assistance! :)

While we were out the first time that evening we watched a school of dolphins swim really close to the shore. AMAZING! Ana, of course, was speaking dolphin to them and we were beginning to think they heard her because they got closer and closer. We were all pretty fascinated. None of us had ever seen them come so close! The beach was buzzing!

Miss Priss gets splashed in the pool!

And, celebrates her second birthday in the condo. YaYa baked her a cake while I put her down for a nap that day. She felt so special.

Fudpuckers. Good atmosphere. Not so good food.

Birthday treat.

Ana had tried to get a toy from one of those grabbing machines. She missed, but the man behind her didn't have kids and gave his to her. He eventually won one for Kate too!

Waiting for the dolphin show at the Gulfarium. She likes to wear her shades like mommy sometimes.

Daddy and Ana watched the show from the splash zone!

Ana got to meet Zac the dolphin after the show (for a $50 fee). She is "teaching him to dance" here.

Kate enjoyed the large aquarium wall most. She was a wiggle worm for the shows.

I got these playing on the beach after dinner at The Crab Trap.

My beauty running the beach. Seaweed was prevalent and it stuck to her body and her hair!

Daddy's beach buddy. They threw balls and frisbees, dug motes, rode waves...had lots of fun!

So funny!

So sweet.

We enjoyed lunch at The Southern Cafe in Seaside one day. What an amazing place. People riding bikes like these with big baskets on front to and fro. Loved it!

Kate is "all done!" Love this funny pic.

We also had treats, of course! There was a cupcake vendor in a cute little stainless mini airstream looking trailer.

Kate wanted a lollipop.

We enjoyed the shops and such. It was hot! We grew tired!

The backseat on the ride home.

Burying daddy.

Burying Kate.

Kate admires the big big world.

Family photo before Daddy took Mommy out for a birthday dinner on the last night.

Congratulations, Ana!

2010-06-08T09:48:00.005-05:00

Kindergarten Graduation

Cruisin' Into 1st Grade

We actually had this dress hanging in Ana's closet with tags still attached. My mom picked it up on sale some time ago and it turned out to be a perfect Kindergarten Grad dress, looking alot like a real gown. May have been a little fancy for the paper hat! :)

Waiting on the ceremony to begin.

Ana spots her adoring fans!

Heather, Ana & Bianca. The hats are funny. They kept pulling them down to fit more securely, but the tops kept popping up.

Ana receives her diploma from Principal Sellers.

"I is for IMAGINATION we use every day!

Singing.

J'khia & Ana sing about friend they've made in Kindergarten.

Ana & Ella Grace

Mimi Margaret & Papa John

Ana & David Nail. He was in town for a show the next night and was so sweet to attend with us. She walked him around everywhere saying, "HEY! This is David Nail!" She was so proud. He was so embarrassed. Very cute!

YaYa

Our #1 GRAD

Paw Paw & MeMe

Ana & Ethan

Ana & Gleann

Ana & Friends (J'khia, Bianca, Hayden and Ella)

Pappy

At the reception playing at the writing center. Pretty much the only pic I could capture of them together. Kate was too busy.

The kids made Mrs. Doan a planter covered in their fingerprint flowers. So sweet.

We are going to miss her like crazy. She has been an amazing teacher for Ana. A perfect blend of structure and kindness. It was truly a wonderful year.

CES Luau Carnival

2010-05-20T20:04:00.007-05:00

The big school carnival was luau themed this year and the kids had a ball. There were several games, inflatables, snacks, etc. We picnicked on the lawn for lunch and I sat and thought about how sad I am that this experience has to end. I'll try to get excited about first grade. Ana is...I am not.

Sack Race.

She won! And then said, "and I'm only in Kindergarten!"

Love the ironic feminism in this photo of Scarlet. The car actually said "Mr. Sellers (the principal) hits like a girl."

Radio Disney

Inflatables

Ana & Max Buck

This is Jordan. Ana has been loving on Jordan since day one and enjoys being her "helper" and friend."

Love this shot of the kiddos with Mrs. Doan. We are going to miss her so much!

Mrs. Doan's class won the classroom decor contest for the kindergartens. Our class was pretty fantastic thanks to several fantastic moms and Mrs. D putting in some after hours efforts.

It was worth it. The kids were so proud!

A "SCHOOL" of fishy hand prints made by the kiddos.

Dylan's mom made these awesome treat buckets. She put so much work into this project!

Kindergarten Field Trip

2010-05-20T15:15:00.005-05:00

The kindergarten classes took a field trip to The Wonder Place and Mills Park this week.

Ana and Mr. Ethan Pack playing Pet Vet.

Lawson, Ana & Olivia

Ana's Dot Art

She began making a block tower and was so proud when it was as tall as she was.

She kept building and building and several friends stopped in to contribute for a bit, but Ana was committed to this project for almost an hour.

It became quite impressive!

One sweet little boy was trying to help and eventually bumped it and it crumbled. Ana was sweet about it.

After The Wonder Place we picnicked at the park and the kids played for the rest of the afternoon. Ana spent quite a bit of time making a leaf trail that she hoped would attract caterpillars. It was a big, fun exhausting day. I'm so thankful to have been a part of it.

CES Talent Show

2010-05-17T08:44:00.008-05:00

Mamma Mia! has come and gone and I could not be more proud of our little girls. We have been practicing for two months and although they didn't always love to practice (they always love to PLAY), their hard work paid off. They were so prepared and confident!

Ella & Ana pre-show

The girls waiting in their "participant" chairs. Scarlet had dance recital rehearsal that night and literally arrived one act before they went on! Kellee was texting me during the other performances, "15 minutes away. 10 minutes away. 5 minutes away. We're HERE!" Mel and I were sweating, but they made it! BARELY! It wouldn't have been the same without Scarlet!
Daddy made it just in time as well. He had been in Atlanta since Monday for a work conference (and presentation). He got on stand-by for an earlier flight Thursday and thank the Lord, because his original fight got delayed. He barely made it too!
Watching and waiting...

They were the grand finale (by my request to allow Scarlet time to get there) and they showed out! They walked right onto that stage and went for it! My girl smiled with such great stage presence and confidence. She was so happy to see Mrs. Doan and her family in the audience (Me, Daddy, Pappy, GG, MeMe & Paw Paw, Grandma Buffalo, E-beth). YaYa stayed home with Kate, because she had excellent timing with a stomach virus (she began vomiting at 10:30 p.m. the night before and did not stop until morning). YaYa was able to join Mimi Margaret and Papa John at the school performance Friday morning when they rocked it again. I had to leave the school performance to rush Kate to the pediatric clinic as she was totally lethargic and scaring us to death. She ended up getting cathed to check for UTI because she refused to pee in the cup (all day) as it totally freaked her out! Rough few days, but she's fine now and it just turned out to be a nasty bug.

I missed it, but they told me that Ana accidentally knocked her mic off the stand with a dance move. The music teacher came to help her get it back on and she never missed a beat! Everyone said I would have been so proud of her...it didn't stress or distract her for a second. This is amazing because every time she made the smallest mistake in practice or had to scratch a mosquito bite (for goodness sake!) we had to stop and start over! And, I would preach to her that during the real thing she would have to keep going! She is something else! But, she is also quite an amazing little girl! My heart bursts with pride!

I sensed a few nerves in the days prior to the big day. She had mentioned several times recalling her 4 year-old dance recital where she was left without someone to skip around (because her partner made a mistake) and she was embarrassed. I tried to convince her that it was her partners mistake and that was two years ago and everything about it was precious. She also prayed the night before to "please help me not make any mistakes in Mamma Mia and not let Ella Grace and Scarlet make any mistakes either." So, I knew she was getting a little nervous, but at show time it was gone. She was confident and loved that stage like she had done it a thousand times.
"Just one look..."

"Mamma Mia! Here I go again..."

I LOVE HER!

Flowers from a proud Daddy

The Mamma Mias!
Mollie made the adorable tanks. They were the cutest!

These girls are such a mess!

They all had such fun! Lauren and Lawson worked the fancy signs in the performance. They really iced the cake!

Meme presented her with a new Pet Shop present.

This pic reminds me of all the pics of Susan and me where she stood an entire head taller. :)

Ana, Scarlet & Lauren

So happy her Mimi Margaret and Papa John made it! And, thankful for the beautiful pettiskirt they got her for Christmas two years ago! It was perfect!

Priceless memory and I will cherish that video forever!

Mommy Day Lovins

2010-05-17T08:31:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the Nest, Colin!

2010-05-17T08:06:00.002-05:00

Saturday before Mother's Day we (Kari, Jill, Brittany, and two of Mere's other friends) celebrated sweet Colin's arrival with a bird/nest themed sip-n-see. Meredith was beautiful and matchy, as expected, and everything else came together perfectly.

How cute are these guys? Our original idea! Chocolate dipped Peeps chocolate sprinkle nests.

These were pretty adorable too. And, actually pretty tasty.

Limo Ride

2010-05-12T09:50:00.005-05:00

Every student selling 12 items (or more) for the PTO cookie dough fundraiser got a ride in a limo. I bought three boxes, but Ana got a ride and it was totally worth every cookie! The looks on their faces were priceless. Genuine excitement!

Oh, and it was "wear your Razorback gear" day at school. They had been studying the state of Arkansas. Hence, the outfit.

Watching the limos pull up!

The Three Amigos...and the little boy from Scarlet's class. :)

Love this! Chauffeur reflection and all!

Ana & Ella Grace ready to roll.

Arriving at Mills Park. Look at those faces!

Working ultra hard at the monkey bars, but she can do it all by herself! Note: this is how I fractured my wrist at age 5.

PTO sponsored each kiddo a Sonic drink. Sprite is such a treat for Ana!

That evening we spent time with friends at the Matlock house practicing for the talent show. Afterward Scarlet and Ana decided to climb the neighbor's magnolia tree. Surely he didn't mind...they're so cute!

To Ana From Hayden

2010-05-12T09:42:00.002-05:00

Ana brought this home from school.

How sweet is that? Hayden is the cutest little red-haired boy in Ana's class. He is always sure to wave and say "hello." Just precious!

Disney on Ice

2010-05-12T08:28:00.005-05:00

Tiana and her prince.

Halle & Ana

Ella & Ana

Ana's new favorite princess, Tiana!

Checking out the view from Sissy's lap for a minute.

And, YaYa's.

It was "seasons" show and they did a skit for each holiday so Christmas was the finale.

Kate was upset when it was over and they all went away. Otherwise, she LOVED it!

Ella, Emma, Ana & Kate

We had a large group. All the siblings were matching! Hilarious!

OKLAHOMA!

2010-05-12T08:12:00.004-05:00

Last month I tagged along with Jake on a business trip to Tulsa. Wanted to jot it down because we had such a nice, low-key time and I don't want to forget about it.

We went down on a Friday afternoon and arrived in time for a Mexican mariachi dinner.

Saturday he got up and went to work and I slept in! I lied around the hotel room and watched George, which I had wanted to see for awhile (made me a little sad to see Anne Pressly so alive and beautiful). I walked across the street, grabbed lunch to go and spent the next couple of hours by the pool. It was amazing! I read a grown-up book, dozed off and soaked up some sun. I was awakened by a handsome man (lucky me he's my husband!). He went upstairs and took a nap and I got ready and we went to an early movie (Date Night) followed by dinner at The Cheesecake Factory.

We had such a nice, relaxing time together and I can't wait to do it again!

Dorky photo opp in the hotel closet mirror. Love this guy! Especially when he entertains my nerdy ideas!

They're Gone!

2010-05-06T16:43:00.003-05:00

It happened! I could not stop it. It came without warning.

Last Thursday night we were getting everyone ready for bed. Jake was relaxing with Kate on our bed (playing toddler games on the cell phone). Ana decided she wanted in on the Daddy love and crawled onto the bed (sort of behind Kate to see what she was playing on the phone) when Kate got excited and threw herself back into what she thought would be the pillows, but it was her sister's face! Head met mouth, tooth went flying, blood went pouring and girls went screaming. Ana screamed, "MY TOOTH!" and I think I was in immediate shock. She was holding her mouth and crying so she and I went to get cold wet towels. Once Kate chilled Jake went for the video camera; bloody screaming and he's all up in her grill makin' memories! Once I got her calmed down enough to hear my question I asked, "are you crying because it hurts or because you don't know where your tooth is?" "I don't know where my tooth is and the TOOTH FAIRY!!!!....." Okay, we can handle that part, just calm down. The other tooth was apparently holding on a little tighter, only by a thread at that point, so it had to come out too. I found it easy pulling the others because they were so "ready," very little blood. But, this grossed me out! We tried to instruct her how to pull it herself. She was twisting it and it got stuck 180-degrees. The front of her tooth was literally stuck facing the back of her throat and that was hurting so I reached in and jerked it right out. Instinct. I was fighting tears. I wasn't ready! I didn't get my one last look at that sweet smile. She was so very proud and made several phone calls. Needless to say, we were about two hours tardy for bed that night. It was hard to calm her excitement.The Tooth Fairy did her right for leaving two teeth in one night. She received 2- $5 bills, 2- $1 bills, 2 half dollars, 2 quarters, 2 dimes, 2 nickles and 2 pennies. She loves looking for fairy dust in her bed and reading the letter from the Tooth Fairy.

I'm getting use to it. She looks adorable.

Surprise!

2010-05-06T12:23:00.003-05:00

On Ana's real birthday she got to pick her birthday dinner spot. Because mommies know everything, I coordinated all the grandfolks to meet us at Larry's for a "surprise party!"

She was totally surprised and absolutely thrilled!

Pappy, Ana & Mimi Margaret

DS game!

Finally! A Pillow Pet (from YaYa)!

Paw Paw George was MIA when we snapped the family photo! We are so grateful for ALL of the precious grandparents who love our girls without limit and take such an active role in their lives.

Happy 6th Birthday, Ana!

2010-05-02T20:42:00.005-05:00

We turned our house into a "Littlest Pet Shop Spa" for Ana's 6th birthday. I'm not big on home parties (I'd rather pay someone else to provide entertainment and clean-up and spend my time picking out cute cake and party favors!). But, Ana's invite list was too long to have it at any of the girly party studios, and Ana simply wanted it at her house, so we went for it! The invitations for Ana's "Pampered-Pet-Pizza-Pajama-Party" turned out so cute!

Each girl brought a "stuffed" pet and they made jeweled collars for them out of foam strips, velcro tabs, a variety of jewels and some glue. Simple and cute. (Note to self: Foam glue sucks, stick with hot glue!)

I got this fantastic LPS cardboard back drop from Walmart. They were going to throw it away after a LPS promo they had, along with piles of stickers and great bags! I ended up with tons of free extras for goody bags! It was AWESOME! I found these glitter scented body sprays in the dollar aisle at Target. The pink smelled like a cheap strawberry wine cooler and the blue like a vanilla car freshener LOL! The girls LOVED them! The custom stickers I had done from someone on ebay and they fit the bottles perfectly. Turned out to be an adorable favor for the girly pampered spa party!

Each girl got fingers and toes painted...

Littlest Pet Shop tattoos... (This is Olivia. Ana's precious friend from school. We were so glad she came!)

and eye shadow and lip gloss. (Taylor Hill)

There were ridiculous amounts of LPS on display for play.

They also enjoyed the pet grooming station complete with vintage mini hair dyer painted with pet paws. This consisted of an infant bath tub, loofahs and brushes, build-a-bear bows, etc). (Ella & Ana)

Ana requested cupcakes with LPS rings. It stung just a little that I couldn't get all excited about a cute cake, but it helped the budget! I actually made them with some help from Kellee and her delish homemade icing recipe! They turned out cute (for plastic ring cupcakes!) and Ana loved them, which was most important.

These little girls were so cute. While they were getting their nails, etc. done they were singing their little hearts out to Ana's ipod play list of Disney pop stars. Cracked me up!

the loot.

Ana and I adapted a LPS pinata from a disco ball one. Halle pulled the magic string!

By group photo time Ana was spent and not quite herself. About 30 minutes after everyone cleared I realized she had fever. She ended up with strep throat! I felt horrible for exposing everyone! Thankfully there were no reports of illness from any attendees.

Kindergarten Class Photo

2010-04-21T13:40:00.004-05:00

When I asked Ana why she didn't smile she said, "He told us to RELAX! I was following directions!"

She was so very proud when she brought home a free kid's meal to Colton's yesterday awarded to her from her principal, Mr. Sellers. Mrs. Doan sent her to him to read her journal entry about playing putt-putt. I wish I could post the entire journal when she brings it home at the end of the year. It is the cutest!

In other news: Kate did ALL her morning business in the potty yesterday! Ana removed her night diaper and sat her on her potty when she went that morning and Kate pooped! She pees a lot, but never poops on the potty! Major celebration! I'm not pressuring her at all right now. She still tee-tees too often to be too serious about it. But, when she begins to hold it a little longer I think she'll be ready for potty school! Having Ana helps so much. Kate is always saying, "I tee-tee too!" when anyone goes without her. She told me a couple of different times yesterday and kept her diaper dry until nap time! I was so proud of her! Ana NEVER told me when she needed to go as a toddler! I'm hoping for an easier go this time around. I think I started too soon with Ana and she discovered the power it gave her and I almost went crazy in the process of training her! I'm trying a chilled approach this time. Mostly b/c she is still so little to be toting into public restrooms everywhere we go, wanting to touch everything. It's disgusting and exhausting and I can't help but want to put it off!

Sweet Baby Kate

2010-04-19T11:23:00.004-05:00

Oh...if I could just consume Kate on this day, with these sweet moments I would do it this second. She has just been such a doll today. She really is most days, all day. I don't know if it's watching Ana grow up in what seems like an instant before my very eyes lately or what, but I just want to bottle this baby and keep her right here for all time.

She found her blankie at about 10:50 this morning, threw it over her shoulder and rested her own little head on it and told me, "I nite nite." I told her I'd fix her some lunch and then we'd go nite nite. "Okay," she said and toddled away. While sitting at the table she said, "I done. I tired. I wan go nite nite." We got up and headed for bed and she lifted her head from my shoulder, looked me in the face-- lips puckered and said, "kiss." We said our "love yous," she asked for covers and she's out.

Irresistible.

**UPDATE: I just observed Kate give Polly Pocket a big hug and say, "You did it! I proud a you, Girl!" When she looked down at Polly while giving her the hug her little eyes crossed! The cutest, funniest, sweetest thing ever!

Newsflash:

2010-04-12T13:50:00.014-05:00

Ana informs me the other day that she doesn't want any babies. I thought she meant brothers/sisters, but when I began to inquire further she said when she grows up. She and Ethan are getting married and they're just going to have a bunch of dogs and cats. Because she loves animals, especially dogs, and they'll have some cats for Ethan because he really likes cats. Again, no babies.

In other Ethan news: He broke up with her in recent weeks. And, then came to her saying that he still loved her, that he just said that because the other boys were making fun of him. Ana told us that she really doesn't know what "broke up" means but that he just said that because he was embarrassed. Mrs. Doan and I also talked (casually, no conference or anything...I was just in there helping out and witnessed it and when I mentioned it she informed be of the frequency) about the abundance of hugging going on between them. Ana says he always just walks up to her and says "HUGGIE" with his arms open so she feels like she should hug him. I've got my eye on this situation and it is definitely on Daddy's radar!
I tried to explain that you can actually overdue the accessories so she took a few off, but was still pretty blingy for school this morning. And, I swear she has said the word "awesome!" at least 157 times in the last 3 days! Everything in excess!

Ana went for her 6 year check up last week and measured in the 69% for height and weight. She weighed 49 lbs. and measured 46 1/2 inches tall. She checked out excellent, but I did talk with Dr. Stanford about her snoring and loud breathing. Ana has always snored for as far back as I can remember. I honestly just thought that was her normal until a good friend told me that her daughter was getting her tonsils and adenoids removed due to her snoring caused by labored breathing from enlarged tonsils. The more info she allowed the more I felt like she was describing my daughter. A light bulb went off in my head! So...Dr. Stanford said that her tonsils were a bit large (although he's looked down her throat once a year for five years) and we would try a month on Zyrtec and a nasal mist to eliminate allergies and then schedule and ENT visit. We were playing around with a flash light recently, several weeks after she has strep throat, and taking turns saying "Ahh" and her tonsil still looked huge on one side, no funk, just almost closed off on that side. When I asked if her throat was still sore she said no. I feel so guilty for not mentioning it to the ped before. I just thought some kids snored. But, now that I think about it, it all makes sense. She snores, drools at night (I've always attributed these things to her being such a hard sleeper, b/c you could literally stand her on her head in her sleep without waking her), breathes very loud when relaxed, chronically clears her throat, has always done this humming thing when she eats...Poor baby can't breathe! My intuition is late, but in gear now and I'll be surprised if I'm able to make myself wait a month before scheduling her. **(UPDATE) Ana is scheduled with an ENT for May 10th. I didn't even last a week! Her two front teeth are so loose and I'm freaking out! My heart is breaking that this little smile is leaving me forever. I know that her big girl smile will be beautiful (with some orthodontic interference), but it's like the last little bit of baby left on her and I could just cry right now so I'm going to stop.

K-Kate wanted her picture before school too. She had just woken up. So cute. I guess I'll have to count on her to not only stay little, but one day give me the grandchildren I will so deeply crave. We'll have to do better than granddogs. I like animals, but I don't love them like Ana does!

Kate know's all about Sissy's DS. She calls it her "ES."

Spring Break 2010

2010-04-07T11:53:00.005-05:00

We took the girls to the Memphis Zoo on Spring Break. It was a perfectly beautiful day and everyone had a wonderful time. Ana is a PANDA fanatic so she couldn't wait to see the pandas and that was her favorite part. She of course picked out their panda outfits and they got a lot of attention.

This was our first go with the "baby leash." Kate rode in the stroller for a little while, but really enjoyed walking it herself. I think daddy put it on backwards, but I don't guess it mattered. She likes the idea of wearing a backpack (she likes to look big like her school-going sister), but it took her a few minutes to decide to allow us to hold onto the end. Ana of course loved "walking" her like a puppy!

I was definitely most fascinated with the swimming polar bear. Kate was cracking up at it as well. It was pretty amazing to see such a large graceful creature so close with just a sheet of glass between you.

You just want to climb right in there and snuggle these guys.

Prairie dog tunnel .

I love this one so much.

The girls had a ball wading in "The Nile" at the end of the day.

We stopped at the only visible sit-down restaurant in West Memphis, Pancho's, on the way home. We were served cold cheese dip (intentionally) for the first and last time. It was honestly the worst mexican food I have ever had. Really bad. Other than that...it was a perfect day!

Easter 2010

2010-04-05T14:44:00.005-05:00

We did our egg dying and decorating at MeMe & Paw Paw's this year since we were there for dinner.
Ana the Animal Fanatic!

Ana asked me if the Easter Bunny filled the baskets or if Mommy and Daddy did that. Because she's "not sure how he would know everything she wanted!" I had a feeling I would get a few doubting questions from her this year since several months ago (barely post Christmas) I picked her up from school and she asked, "Mommy? Is the Easter Bunny real?" When I asked why on earth she was asking me that very random question she said, "That just doesn't seem right...a giant bunny hopping around hiding eggs...it just doesn't seem right." UMM..."I think it's kinda like The Polar Express and it's up to you to believe"...and a very graceful subject change...

So...I went with: "The Easter Bunny brought eggs and candy and Mommy and Daddy put a few extra things that we knew you'd like in your baskets."

And they had entirely too much candy before breakfast.

The Pre-Church Family Photo

YaYa's Pre-Church Photo

And, the girls' Pre-Church Photo Shoot...

I made both of their hair accessories. Ana and I were pretty proud of her major head band.

Jazzy following Kate for discarded jellybeans.

MeMe helping Kate open an egg.

Posing Pretty with her standard head tilt.

Holy Goodness! Littlest Pet Shop Eggs! Praise Target!

Hot, Tired Kate.

MeMe & Paw Paw's

2010-04-05T14:11:00.004-05:00

We spent Easter Eve at MeMe & Paw Paw's. They cooked a yummy dinner and hid eggs for the girls.

Ana wishes on a dandelion.

And...they're off!

Kate so excited to find a chocolate kiss!

She opened every one before looking for another.

And, let Buddy lick the chocolate off her hands.

A little help from Sissy.

And, sweet Paw Paw.

FBC- South Egg Hunt

2010-04-05T13:43:00.002-05:00

Ella Grace & Ana

We've been going to the "South Campus" of FBC for a couple of months now and are enjoying it. We took the girls to the Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday where there were inflatables, friends and fun!
Kate and Daddy observing the inflatable slide and waiting anxiously for their turn. She loved it (we got video) and wanted to do it again and again!

The kiddos sang a few songs on stage before being released to hunt. Ana is doing her "twist in the light of Jesus." Guess she felt extra twisty in that skirt!

Ana & Kilian, a friend from school and church.

Easter Begins

2010-04-05T13:22:00.003-05:00

No Easter party at public school, but good teachers figure out a way around it. Ana's class had an egg hunt/math lesson. Mel and I hid lots of eggs and as soon as Mrs. Doan said "go" I never saw my child again until they all gathered again. She was too fast for my camera!

Ana, Bianca, J'kia & Gleann

They all gathered in a circle outside and counted their eggs and used their math skills to share with each other and make sure that everyone had 12 eggs. "If Hayden only has 4 eggs, how many more does he need to have 12?" :)

Kate waited pretty patiently until the very end with Gray (as long as she as eating his puffs!).

I couldn't believe Mrs. Doan let them binge on all that candy with two hours of school to go!

The Last Kindergarten Conference

2010-04-02T14:16:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I attended my last Parent/Teacher Conference for Kindergarten. Mrs. Doan has been such an amazing kindergarten teacher for Ana. She was just the right mix of love and structure. She has never had anything but positive things to say about our Ana. Yesterday she told me that she had noticed her creative thinking processes ("she is really great at thinking outside the box") and how other teachers (music, etc.) had begun mentioning to her that Ana was "gifted." Mrs. Doan said that they don't begin testing them for that until 2nd grade, but that she had been placed on the "watch list."

Mrs. Doan called Ana the "Mother Hen" of the class. She is currently reading on a DRA level 6 and they are expected to be on level 4 when they leave kindergarten. She is hoping to really push Ana to level 10 by the end of the year and thinks she can get there with a little extra work. I have had trouble motivating Ana to read at home (I suppose she is just so tired from doing so much of it at school), but when I told her that Mrs. Doan wanted to get her to a 10 she really took that as a challenge and asked to read two books before bed last night (b/c she wants to "get to that 10!).

Mrs. Doan told me again what a joy she is and how any teacher will be thrilled to have her in their class. I must admit that Ana has surprised me this year by being such an excellent student. Not so much academically...I knew she was bright, but she is also such an energetic free spirit as I was a bit afraid that those fun-loving characteristics might get into some trouble. She is very disciplined at school and works hard to please her teacher. I give a lot of credit to Mrs. Doan. Ana has a lot of respect for her and they have worked very well together. I keep hearing that first grade is serious business and it scares me a little, but I am confident that Mrs. Doan has prepared her and she continues to assure me that my baby is ready.

In other news...Ana lost another tooth and got a big hair cut yesterday! My baby girl is growing up right before our very eyes!

Spillage

2010-03-15T14:21:00.011-05:00

So...I got a little overwhelmed with the thought of how far behind I was on my blog that I was afraid to try to catch up. I've decided to record a few of my favorite things that I remember from the months past and go from there.

Ana was the Wildcat Award Winner for the month of December. The teacher selects the winner from her class each month and the school hosts an assembly and hands out trophies and it is a very big deal. Ana had been talking about it since August and she was so proud to receive it. And, we were so very proud of her! We celebrated that night with a special Ana only date to Purple Cow and The Princess & The Frog movie.

February and events surrounding Valentine's Day: So...Ana is in love. We've been hearing about Ethan since the beginning of Kindergarten when he was selected as boyfriend material. I'm pretty sure that Ana informed him that he was going to be her boyfriend and he was like, "ok, cool." I remember pushing her in the swing in the backyard one day after school in September and her telling me that she loved Ethan and he was her boyfriend. I asked her why and she said that they just had so much in common. I barely contained my laughter. I think that they really do spend some time in deep kindergarten conversation. She can tell me all about the things that he likes and the name of his cat and such. I've seen them make googly eyes at each other and walk down the hall with arms linked. It's very innocent, although a little too intense for my liking, but funny at the same time. So, recently we had Scarlet over for dinner and Ana just comes out with "when I'm 18 can I just kiss Ethan Pack?!!" Jake and I glanced across the table at each other with some big eyes. She proceeds, "we're just so in love. We just fell in love!" When I ask how exactly that happened she says (rolling her eyes), "on the first day of school, he was just...like...SO ROMANTIC!" Jake and I glanced again, eyes bigger, and laughter was not contained. I pretty much fell out of my chair. Romantic? Really?

Well...on Valentine's Day Mr. Ethan Pack Prince Charming arrived to school dressed in a full-0n suit with roses for each girl in his class and two for Ana because "she is his girlfriend!" Dear Lord, please be with us! Seriously! Look at them!

Ana & Ethan, Valentine's School Party 2010

Ana and Jake attended the Daddy & Daughter Sweetheart Dance sponsored by our church. It was a very special night indeed. Daddy bought her a corsage and they got all dressed up for their special date and danced the night away.

Ana and her friends Scarlet and Ella Grace are working hard on their performance of Mamma Mia! for the school talent show in May. They have passed the audition and it is going to be a hit!

Kate is the incredible talking baby. She is absolutely amazing with the things that she says, does and comprehends. She's been speaking well since about 15 months and now at 22 months carries on conversations in 4-6 word sentences all day long. There is no frustrated toddler stage with her. She simply tells you what she wants and if you can't understand her she will figure out a way to show you by telling you to "look at me" or "c'mere" or "follow me." I love it when she pats beside her and says, "C'mere, Mommy. Sit by me." She knows when she's tired and will say, "I really tired. I nite nite." when she's ready. She asks for her paci and blanky and goes right down in her crib. She says "bad bad baby" to her dolls and Jasmine often. She hears that on occasion. HA! She asks Ana for a kiss every morning when we drop her off at school and says, "ha your day, Sissy?" when we pick her up. They really have a sweet relationship right now. Kate loves Ana's friends and knows them by name along with her best baby friends, Harper and Henry and now "Baby Gray." Kate sings her ABCs, Mamma Mia!, Itsy Bitsy Spider, Barney theme song, Twinkle Twinkle and many more. She'll ask to hear "David," being our country music friend, David Nail, and sings the Red Light chorus pretty well. She's a lot of fun right now and amazes us everyday. We recently had an exchange that went exactly like this, Kate: "Mommy, you take a shower? Me: "Yes, baby. I"ll be out in just a minute" Kate: "Mommy? It rainin' in nere?" It's funny little things from her all day long, like several weeks ago when she stuck her little finger up and told me to "waitaminute." I'm going to try to be better at jotting them down here.

Ana is doing so well in school. She is reading and writing and getting better at it every day. We are so very proud of her. Comments from her teacher on her second report card read:

"Ana has mastered all her skills for the nine weeks. She knows all her letters and sounds. I am so proud of the progress she is making. Her writing has really taken off! We will begin reading groups exclusively the last tow nine weeks. She has mastered all her skills in math. We will continue to build on all our skills. You are doing a great job working with her at home. Thank you. Ana is such a role model. I can always depend on her to do the right thing and set a great example for others. I love having her in my classroom. She brightens my day." I found that just precious. She's not always perfect at home and we have had our "growing pains" this year, but it is so good to know that she knows how to behave and is shining in school. I absolutely love seeing her read and write. She is growing so much this year physically, intellectually and emotionally. It's bitter sweet. Our baby is growing up. She lost her first tooth in February and has several more that are "pretty wiggly." I'm so not ready for big girl teeth!

I know I've missed a ton, but I'm going to start from here! This is my recommitment to the family blog! :)

Christmas 2009

2010-02-10T14:23:00.007-06:00

"Reading" Twas the Night Before Christmas to Kate before bed.

Sister Love.

Cookies & Letters to Santa

The HOT ITEM of 2009: Zhu Zhu Pets

E-beth made Jazzy this Santa Hat! We loved it!

The most important thing on Ana's list was this "Big Eyed Panda." Her name is Bamboo and she has become a well-loved member of our family.

Calling MeMe.

Rebecca. Ana's first American Girl doll. Ana picked her out herself. The name is pure irony.

Daddy got his wish. I got mine later...a haircut! LOL!

Kate at MeMe & Paw Paw's Christmas. She loved her new shopping cart and PJs, which she preferred to wear on her head.

Ana loved her My Little Pony remote control Scoot-a-Loo Scooter from MeMe and Paw Paw. I love that she loves so many of my faves as a little girl. MLP, Strawberry Shortcake, Care Bears. Waiting for Rainbow Brite to make her comeback!

We had such a blessed Christmas full of family and fun. And, we thank God.

Christmas @ YaYa & Poppy's

2010-01-20T12:34:00.006-06:00

Ana posing with her pile.
Lynne and her sweet boys.

What is Pottery Barn's return policy? LOL!

Poppy requested an apron for Christmas with his name on it! HA! We had this one embroidered to say "Best Thing You Ever Put In Your Mouth?" He asks that EVERY time you're eating his grillings! He loved it! And, the rest of us got a big kick out of it too. :) His name is on the pocket. We also got him another one with a retractable bottle opener and insulated beer pocket.

Kate got her own backpack. She is a big fan of her sister's and we had a hard time getting it off of her.

Grandkids

Alec & Daniel. Sweet brothers discreetly holding hands.

When Ana opened Lil' Loveables (which she has wanted for the longest time, but forgot to put on her list) she said, "Mommy, LOOK! I have wanted this for like 100 years!"

Love.

Ana and YaYa exchanged robes.

We are blessed.

Christmas Eve Eve

2010-01-20T11:55:00.004-06:00

On December 23rd we had a few of our greatest friends over for a "Happy Birthday, Jesus!" party. The kiddos decorated cupcakes, sang to the Savior and took a moment to reflect on the greatest gift of all.

Emma and Ana

That evening we met Daddy at Mimi Margaret & Papa John's.

Ana and her new boyfriend, Nintendo DSi. And, don't call it a DS. It's a DSi! She was so proud. I think she really wanted one so much, but didn't think she was old enough to have it so never really begged for it. After opening it and letting it sink in she said, "I can't believe it! I just feel like such a big girl. Like I'm in the first grade!"

Santa had not yet brought KK's babydoll, but she got some of the most adorable things for her. I love the little carriage stroller behind her! It is a permanent fixture around here now.

So thankful to have our Mimi Margaret & Papa John in our lives! Ana has a special bond with her Mimi Margaret.

Jim & Kari got Margaret and John animal print Snuggies for Christmas. Ana was all over it! I do love this pic!

School Holiday Fun

2010-01-12T09:06:00.008-06:00

Ana's Kindergarten Christmas Party

Showing off her hand-made ornament.

And, her stocking. All 20 kids brought 20 little stocking stuffers and stuffed eachother's stocking. It was like an oversized party favor/goody back. My worst nightmare!

Mrs. Doan called each child's name to come get their stocking. Ana's was last and when she got back to the table Kate prissed her little self up to the teacher with her hand out saying, "I want one." I thought Mrs. Doan was going to cry. LOL! Thankfully, Sissy shared.

Bianca has such beautiful eyes. I don't know her family situation, but her dad is always bringing her to school and attending class parties. Sweet.

Mrs. Doan is a real HOG FAN so Ana gave her this cute platter with several packs of muffin mixes all wrapped up in cellophane. I figured she would get enough already baked goods. She really liked it and Ana was proud to give it to her.

Ana's class constructed their own gingerbread houses out of milk cartons. I was impressed when she told me she had the idea to use the marshmallows as bricks.

The school had several days of fun preceding the Christmas holiday. One of them was Winter Storyland, where each grade decorated their hallway to a corresponding story. All of the classes were led to each hall to hear the story and have a snack or craft that went along with each grade's theme. It took the entire day and the kiddos really enjoyed it! We will look forward to this each year!

The Kindergartners did the Gingerbread Baby.

Second grade did A Very Marley Christmas. I think Ana said this was her favorite. Of course, it's about an animal!

I think The Christmas Humbugs were third grade, maybe?

I can't remember if this was fourth or fifth grade, but it was awesome! We had been asked to recycle our milk jugs by sending them to school several weeks prior and they were used to make this igloo. Very impressive!
Here she is ready for Polar Express Day where they wore PJs and read The Polar Express, drank hot chocolate, took an imaginary train ride and several other activities before watching the movie at the end of the day. Her Fur Real polar bear got to go since it was her attachment of the moment.The Kindergartners took a field trip to see Merry Christmas Mouse at the Children's Theatre.
Ana and EG were too cute in their unplanned coordinating Christmas outfits. Mel and I had no idea we had bought such similar ensembles. We got a good laugh at ourselves!
I am so grateful to be able to do these things with Ana. I hope to be as fortunate with Kate. It is really all I ever wanted to be when I grew up and it is such a blessing to have those prayers answered.

To Ana From Santa

2009-12-15T09:51:00.001-06:00

http://portablenorthpole.tv/watch/183a60c1cc66049267a73d0f0db17d99

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-12-15T09:36:00.002-06:00

Grandma Lois and her five kids.

And, many of their kids.

Today

2009-12-10T19:50:00.002-06:00

The girls got H1N1 shots this morning. I figure if we haven't had it by now, surely we won't get it, but just in case we did while the ped clinic actually had the vaccine. Ana went first to show Kate how to take it like a woman. Kate watched from the bench across the room while I held A's hand. That baby knew exactly what was up and she was concerned and very serious. When it was her turn she was not ready, but never going to be so I put her on the table and talked closely to her face. She cried very briefly and made a very quick recovery. I was so proud of both of them. After watching a little boy who looked at least 8 walk out of there crying my girls were smiling and waving when they left. They're pretty fantastic!

Kate and I met Ana for lunch at school (We brought Arby's at her request. She loves a ham & cheese melt). One of the school aids asked me if she was my daughter and when I proudly said "yes," she began telling me what a neat little girl she is. She said how she is just so sweet and unique and always has on the cutest clothes to go with her personality. "She's really great and I just love her," she said! She's not someone that Ana knows personally. I think she may help some of the special needs kids. But, it just made my heart smile and I wanted to remember how great it felt to hear someone else recognize how special my big girl is.

Sweet November

2009-12-08T20:50:00.006-06:00

Ana attended her first slumber party for Scarlet's 6th birthday. Kellee asked me to help chaperone. Let me just say...she needed the reinforcements! Whew! That many kindergarten girls are exhausting!

"I'm here! Let the party begin!"

Ana was so excited to see Karlee, their preschool buddy!

We made Scarlet a dance mix from Ana's playlist and A decorated it with colorful Sharpies and Scarlet was in love. (We also got her a real gift...just so you know we're not totally cheap!)

They painted and decorated wooden picture frames and I went to Walmart in my PJs Sunday morning to print this pic for them to take home in their works of art. It actually said, "Scarlet's Super 6th Sleepover" across the bottom thanks to the handy dandy 24-hr. photo kiosk. They turned out to be a super cute party favor and craft!

Her cake was very cute. It was nursing minor damages at this point, but adorable! You can pick Ana out, right?

memories...

Ana's classroom Thanksgiving Feast. They earned feathers for good behavior for two weeks prior. She had quite the head dress. :) Jake, Kate and I attended the school Thanksgiving Feast at lunch time in the cafeteria. Jake had a terrible stomach virus, but kept to himself and suffered throught it for the sake of his little girl's feelings.

Jake turned 31 and I took him to the Zac Brown Band concert. Very impressed. Seriously talented. His hair is pretty Johnny Bravo right now as he had an urge to grow it out. Although this was at the end of the night and he had run his fingers through it several times, it's not quite as poofy as this shadow in this pic makes it appear! HA!

This turkey template came home from school with instructions to spend time as a family working to make Tom the Turkey blend in in order to avoid being served at the school Thanksgiving Feast. Ana wanted him to be a dolphin. Her second idea was a flower. We went with that. LOL!

We are SO creative!

Taylor Hill turned 6!

We got to meet Baby Caroline Riley! I try to tell Jake how beautiful that new baby girl looks on his chest, but he IS NOT hearin' it!

Our little Alicia Keys.

15 Miliseconds of Fame

2009-11-26T21:39:00.001-06:00

So here we are! Don't blink or you might miss us!!! LOL!

Happy Halloween 2009

2009-11-08T21:32:00.007-06:00

Once again we shared Halloween and our super family-friendly neighborhood with some great friends. Ana was a witch and Kate was her black cat...always involving tutus. I got their pettiskirts and tops on ebay from what must have been a mass sweatshop in Hong Kong pushing those babies out for 1/4 US boutique price! Seriously...they shipped from Hong Kong and Ana enjoyed the foreign stamps as much as the outfit when it arrived.

My little witch turned out super-duper cute! I broke out my neglected sewing machine to see if I could remember how to operate it and was able to whip up the sashes that went around her hat and waist. We found the cute hat at Target! I thought her broomstick pigtails with color-coordinated bands were perfect. She's such a poser!

I crafted a little collar for Kate from a wooden craft button and some ribbon and a handy-dandy rhinestone. Added a little marabou to her ears and tail and she was set as a fancy black kitty. Jake was all, "she's not going to keep those on her head!" I told him he was crazy...this baby loves this kind of stuff...and she wore them all night long, even handing them back to me to be reapplied when they fell off.

Jazzy wore her cool Halloween shirt.

Gimme some candy!

She was so super still while I penciled her nose and whiskers. She's happy to have snagged that candy corn in her little hands.

I think she knew how cute she was!

Pappy came.

Cousin Logan trick-or-treated our house and decided it looked cool enough to stay!

GiGi came.

YaYa came.

Ella Grace and Grayton, Graham and Thomas, and Emma and Grant came. And, they trick-or-treated in style on a fancy hayride.

Graham, Thomas, Meredith and Baby Boy Eisele. I think this was their third year to trick-or-treat with us. We love the tradition of a big fun Halloween!

Ella Grace the Butterfly (her baby brother was a caterpillar) and Ana.

YaYa and Kate.

I love this one of Ana and Emma...they were all "you go"..."no, you go!"

Kate would run around the house in this fluffy tutu every day. She loves it!

I love this one. Typical of the night. Ana putting her hat back on while Kate digs for something delicious.

Sweet Sissy. Kate was ALL ABOUT trick-or-treating. She didn't miss a beat and kept saying, "I WALK!" She did not want to be carried regardless of how far behind she lagged. She always said thank you and really had as much fun as any of them. The big kids had a blast and were very hard to keep up with this year!

The Matlocks were moving during Halloween weekend, but Scarlet and Hudson were able to join us at the end of the night.

Shooting up some Nerds before bed.

Kindergarten Class Halloween Party

2009-11-08T20:14:00.006-06:00

Book Character Day was also the Kindergarten class fall/Halloween party. My friend and fellow home-room mom, Melody, and I have been brainstorming for a couple of weeks and put together this absolutely adorable Hansel & Gretel theme that correlated perfectly with book character and spooky Halloween. We led the little pumpkins to the classroom with a trail of bread crumbs (slices actually, so the janitors wouldn't hate us!). They arrived to a dark room filled with witch cackles...

Melody and her incredibly handy and generous husband built this candy house! How cute is it? Mel ran all over Saline Co. previewing H & G stories for the least scarring version and Mrs. Doan read (an adapted version) to them that day. The ones that didn't make the cut were displayed. LOL! We brought our mini Christmas trees for the forest affect. There were gum drop trees and giant candies made from paper lanterns and cellophane. Mel got lots of great ideas from a decorating show.

Melody is a crafting genius! Although it looks like we spent a fortune on this decor, she had most all of the supplies on hand! Her husband, Lee, is a builder and they made the candy house of sheet rock and chalk paint.

Neon vampires. (Mandy & Gleann)

The cutest game called "Kiss the Ghost," where they retrieved gummy lifesavers from a pile of powdered sugar with their mouths. Very cute!

Cakewalk winnings!

Knock Knock. It even had some colored lights on the roof!

Our girls.

The kiddos loved it. We served "trail mix" in ghost shaped tin foils and they ate their weight in cupcakes and candy. They fished for goody bags in the old classic game. Mrs. Doan said that they were still talking about it on Monday. And, I think maybe some of the other teachers had some home-room mom envy (mostly thanks to Mel!) b/c everyone kept stopping by to check it out after someone told them about it. LOL! It was such fun!

Book Character Day

2009-11-04T22:02:00.004-06:00

Ana is starting to read and it is the most amazing proud parent feeling! To watch her gain skill and confidence has been very exciting for all of us! Keep it up, Big Sister!

Friday, Oct. 30th was book character day for the kindergarten classes. They had to give a report on their book of choice dressed as the main character. Ana chose her new favorite book purchased at the school book fair, Dewey: There's a Cat in the Library! She was Dewey, the little orange cat.

We happened to have some tiger ears from a few years ago when she was Princess Jasmine for Halloween and I sported them as Raja. I painted them orange with a few coats of acrylic. She wore an orange striped dress and we applied a white fuzzy belly of sticky felt. And, I whipped up an orange satin tail from some leftover Halloween costume fabric and batting lying here. I wasn't sure if I remembered how to use my sewing machine, but I worked it out! She loved it and was absolutely adorable and proud!

Here she is reporting to her class. She did such a wonderful job. Always confident and eager to make someone smile.
This would be "Marty Mouse," Dewey's favorite toy. I do love a sidekick baby! :)

Ana and her girlfriends (Mandy, Ella Grace, Gleann and Andrea). Props to our girl for originality! LOL! They were all so precious!

Mrs. Doan was the kid from Crazy Hair Day
Ana was the only one to report the author's name. Actually, her book had two and she credited them both. Star Student!

Fancy Nancy Scarlet & Dewey Ana

And, here's Little Miss Milestone

workin' her fork! She loves it and requests it at meal time like she's big stuff (BTW, appetizer forks are the bomb for babies)! I'm telling you...she says everything! The other day I told Jazzy to "go lay down," which is what I tell her when we are ready to leave the house and she boards up in the bathroom. She did and Kate said, "good girl! right back!" That's exactly what I tell her every time. Cracked me up! Little sponge.

Pumpkin Patch 2009

2009-11-02T20:42:00.005-06:00

Pumpkins are pretty.

Pumpkins are fun.

Pumpkins are heavy.

Ana argued that this was a rabbit.

Because anything expected to entertain this generation must include a bouncy house & slide.

This was a pretty good maze. Ana loved it!

In the maze.

Rounding a corner.

Sorry, her black socks were dirty. You can't hold that against a baby, right?

I don't know this face, but it's funny.

On the hayride...with a camera hog!

School Picture Day

And, just b/c we love mini Boden and our hanna andersson legwarmers!

Kindergarten Cowboy Day

2009-10-26T20:34:00.006-05:00

The Kindergarten classes recently learned about cowboys and it is tradition that they conclude the lesson with Cowboy Day, a morning long celebration with all things western.

I tried desperately NOT to spend money on her attire. We have owned hot pink cowboy boots for the last three years, but they were too tight for comfort when needed this time around and nowhere to be found in stores...retail or consignment. So...after attempting to borrow a pair from several of her boy friends she refused to wear any of them b/c they were "too boy!" That put us at Wal-Mart after dark the night before buying a plain brown pair that Mommy had rights to embellish. My camera lens was fogged so the pic is not so good, but you get the idea. Girly enough.
Kate was more "barnyard/farmer" than cowboy, but that was the best I could do. That's a rooster on her dress. Cute nonetheless.

Our Kindergarten Cowgirl. She rigged up this homemade lasso herself that is hanging from her vest zipper.

I obviously was not nearby..."Ana, sit up straight. Legs together." Props to Melody and Lee (a.k.a. Ella Grace's mom and dad) for putting this photo scene together!

I pulled out my old Kindermusik hat and led campfire songs. Ana was so proud...it was cute. The kids really seemed to enjoy it and now when I go eat lunch with Ana they ask, "Hey, are you the one who did the cowboy songs?"

Mommy/Campfire Song Lady, Ana & Ella Grace

Ella, Jordan & Ana

Ana enjoys being Jordan's special helper at school. It melts my hear to see her kind spirit as she holds Jordan's hand and walks her out of the building each day to where they wait for us to pick them up.

A cowgirl on her horse.

Ana with her friends, Mandy and Gleann. Mandy's family moved here from China just two years ago. They are so friendly and we just love Mandy's outgoing personality. Ana and Gleann sit at the same classroom table and have become great friends.

Mrs. Doan's Kindergarten Cowpokes

Henry & Kate chillin in their Combis at the picnic.

Cowboy Day was lots of fun! I am so thankful to be part of these school memories. I know that YaYa was happy to be there as well! Thanks to my friend, Melody, for the majority of these pics as I was busy singing my cowgirl heart out for the majority. Yee Haw!

Everyday Happenings

2009-10-13T09:58:00.006-05:00

Ana's been doing some Upward Cheerleading on the weekends. I love this candid shot of her.
Kate hearts pom poms!

They have a devotional at half time.

It was absolutely necessary for her to wear my sunglasses.

My husband, the Watch Dog Dad. This is a program they have at Ana's school for dads to volunteer for the day to observe and be a role model. Jake's particular day was a torrential downpour. He stood outside while the parents were dropping kids off in the car line and walked the little ones in under his umbrella. It was so precious, but he had to come home and change. He was saturated from head to toe. When he took off his soaked jeans even his underwear were wet! He was such a good sport and Ana was so very proud to have her daddy there to eat lunch with her and hang out all day in his uber cool khaki vest.

Soggy SUPERDAD!

We recently attended a birthday party at the zoo. Kate was recovering from Hand Foot Mouth, which she contracted at her weekly Gymboree class (along with several other babies). One of the babies had been exposed at MDO and her mom was just talking about it when she picked her up a couple of minutes later from an activity and noticed a tiny blister on her hand. They got out of there fast, but it was too late. It's a very contagious virus transmitted especially through saliva. Needless to say, there's a lot of that there. It was not nearly as disgusting as it sounds to be (for us anyway). She developed one tiny blister on her foot, which I only noticed b/c I was looking for them. The rest settled in the back of her throat, which made it terribly painful to swallow. She didn't eat or drink much of anything for several days. She would take a sip and cry and say, "juice" in the most pitiful voice as she looked at her sippy cup like, "I can't believe you would do that to me. I thought you were my friend." It was so sad and it really hurt her feelings. Anyway...it was a perfect day and the fresh air was good for her, but I was definitely less focused on my usual photo frenzy. It was also Elephant Open House so we got to pay to get an up close photo with the elephant. Well...we were up close. The brilliant photographer not so much.

I wish I had a better pic of Ana in this My Vintage Baby dress. It was so cute and perfectly zoo party appropriate with the leopard ruffle hem and her leopard bow. She had to rock the crocs for comfort. Zebra baby didn't don many of her usual smiles that day, but she did enjoy getting out of the house for a nice breeze and some sunshine.

Hi! My name is CUTE!

Mommy's favorite jammies. And, Kate's teeth! Look at all those baby bangs growing in. I think we're in for more thick and curly!

Ana took this one. A little distant, but priceless.

Go Hogs! They're in their game gear. Don't you just love Kate's new SUPERCHEESE grin? Yes! That is absolutely a banana pepper she's eating. I swear, she had at least six of them in a row! These girls are so much fun!

Lately...

2009-09-15T08:29:00.004-05:00

We hung with the Matlocks, Pengellys and Bakers for one last swim cookout for Labor Day.

Ana, Scarlet, Lauren & Ella Grace

I imagine pulling these pictures out when they are seniors in high school. I wonder if they will be tight forever...
Ana & Lauren had matching suits.

Daddy took Ana's training wheels off recently. She took right to it with no fear at all.

Kate has been doing a little coloring in her high chair. She enjoys her art time until it is concluded with crayon eating.

She created quite the masterpiece and her big sister was very proud of her. :)