Life with the Bell boys

Wesley's 3rd Birthday Train Party Part 1

2011-06-28T21:45:00.000-07:00

Since I seem to have limited time on my hands now days, I'm hoping that breaking this up into a couple of posts will help me get it done!

If you know me, you know I LOVE birthdays! I love parties in general and if I could make a living at it, party planning would be my dream job! I have always loved birthdays and I probably go a little overboard but hey what can I say I love my babies and the days they were born are the two best days EVER in my life period. So, if I want to go a little crazy, I feel it's justified. :)

Wesley LOVES trains and actually started asking for a Thomas cake about 8 months ago when he saw the 3D Thomas cake in bakery at a local grocery store. He never wavered and had to have that cake. We are going to be at the beach on his actual birthday so I decided to have it the week before. The train was already booked for that weekend so I had to settle for two weeks early. He didn't mind and it will be nice not to have a party while trying to leave to go out of town, as well.

I had decided to use a train theme but not stick with just Thomas. After hours and hours of searching, I found the greatest website for invitations online. Peyton from Do It Cute did a fabulous job on my invites, thank you cards, address labels, and stickers. They were exactly what I wanted! She used a steam train design with the Thomas colors.

I searched all over Chattanooga for fabric and finally found a stripe with the right blues and reds in it at Walmart of all places. I made table runners for the food and cake table and used what was left for pennants in the pennant banner I made. I ordered a train name banner and a welcome sign from a site on Etsy, which after an ordeal was picked up Saturday morning right before the party by my awesome sister! I lucked up and found plastic platters for $1 a piece and a drink bucket for $4 at Walmart. Hobby Lobby had some red metal tubs 65% off so I snagged some of those as well. I found the cutest blue woven containers at the Dollar General half price and got 7 different size containers for under $5! As you can tell, I love finding good deals!!! I had seen some of the tissue paper puffs online and knew I wanted to use some. I decided to use them as the table decorations. Max actually had a lot of fun helping me make all the puffs. Since the party was close to July 4th I found all kinds of things that match my color scheme. I found straws for the kids drinks at the dollar tree, miniature pinwheels at Micheal's, and super cute metal buckets for $1 a piece at Target.

I knew I was going to have to serve lunch since the train ride was at 12 noon. My mom make super yummy pulled pork and when she offered to make it for Wes's party, I took her up on her offer. I had seen some cute sandwich ideas while search train parties online and decided to go with peanut butter and jelly boxcar sandwiches. We also had pasta salad, watermelon, chips, and drinks. The kids enjoyed their favors which consisted of a conductors hat, bandanna, train whistle, and personalized cookie.

Next post will be about his actual party!

Goodbye Kindergarten, Hello 1st grade

2011-05-24T11:01:00.000-07:00

It seems like it was just yesterday that I was packing Max's first school lunch and backpack and dropping him off in his class room for his first day of school. It really doesn't seem possible that his first year of school has come to and end. He has learned so much and grown so much this year. I am so thankful for the wonderful teacher was were blessed with and all the sweet kids he had in his class. This is definitely bittersweet. I know that this is just a part of life but I really wish my babies didn't have to grow up so fast. Don't get me wrong, I love getting to experience all the new things that come along with each stage of their lives but it just seems like it is all happening too fast and I don't have enough time with them in the here and now.
The last week of school was filled with school play days, field trips, and celebrations. His moving up ceremony was on the evening of his last day of school. The kids sang two cute songs and then got to walk across the stage and received their certificates. We had a big group there to celebrate Max's special day. My dad, mom, sisters, father in law, sister in law, and nieces were all able to come. We let Max pick out somewhere special to eat to celebrate and he chose Japanese. We had a nice dinner and I had made Max his favorite red velvet with cream cheese icing cake for dessert when we got home. Now we get to enjoy our summer and the fun will begin again in August. Enjoy some pictures of my sweet little guy on his big day!

Getting ready for the ceremony

Max and Grayson

Love this sweet boy so much!

Part of his kindergarten class

Kindergarten classes @ OES 2011

Mrs. Baker, Max's teacher

I got money!!

Love!

Paw Paw's, Max, and Nana's

PawPaw's, Max, Nana's, Jessi, and Shia

Max and Shia

Jessi and Max

Belle, Max, Allison, and Emma

Brady and Max

The granddads and the boys

Daddy, Max, and Mommy

My precious Max and me

Mr Arnold, the principal and Max

Mrs. Baker and Max

Congratulations my sweet Max. We are so proud of you and so blessed to be your parents. We love you more than words can express.

Floating down the Tennessee River

2011-05-18T20:18:00.000-07:00

Well, it's the end of Max's first school year and today was his last field trip of his kindergarten year. Thankfully, we were able to make up our field trip to the Southern Belle that had to be cancelled due to school closing during the tornado aftermath.

First of it was COLD! It was 90 degrees here last week and this morning it was in the 40s. Seriously! Anyway, we boarded our chilly outdoor river boat adventure with jackets and jeans on in May. The kids were so excited when we took off down the Tennessee River. We found an uncrowded spot on the second deck on the back of the boat and stayed in that area for a while. The kids didn't stay in one place for long and other than a quick potty break, we were outside the entire time. They had a snack of popcorn and coke, got to meet the captain and sit in his driving area, walked up and down the stairs countless times, saw some beautiful sights, and heard the calipso play some music.

After the boat ride we went to a nearby park for lunch and playtime. I know I've said it before but I am so thankful Max was in a great class this year. The kids are all sweet and get along really well for the most part. I haven't went on one unenjoyable field trip at all this year or been regretful I helped out in the classroom after the fact. We are looking forward to the summer break but the Southern Bell Riverboat was a great way to end the year!

Kindergarten classes of OES

Luka and Max

Chance, Gavin, Max, and Luka

Chance, Gavin, Peyton, Grayson, Max, and Luka

silly picture

This was supposed to be the serious pictures, lol

Luka cracks me up!

Brady and Kaylee

Blue Cross Blue Shield Compound

Lookout Mountain

Tow boats

Market Street Bridge

in the Captain's Cabin

Max, Luka, and Abby

Ethan, Andrew, and Marie

It's high up here...going under Veteran's Bridge

The Delta Queen

Hunter Art Museum

Love this picture!!!

Max, Luka, Brady, and Kaylee

The calipso

We saw Ducks in the water

The new salt water addition to the Tennessee Aquarium

The Tennessee Aquarium

Headed back into the Southern Belle's dock

Easter 2011

2011-05-15T16:13:00.000-07:00

Boy, I just can't seem to find time to blog. I'm hoping we will slow down just a little over the summer! Probably won't happen but a girl can dream. We spent Easter Sunday this year in Atlanta with family. The kids had a great time playing and hunting eggs. Max also had an egg hunt at school which was super fun along with a great Easter party. Enjoy some pictures of our fun weekend!

My wild little Wes man

Max with Evan and Grayson

My sweet Max

Max's class getting ready for the egg hunt

Waiting on the green light to go

and they are off...

Max and Mrs. Baker

I love my sweet Max!

Easter party snacks

Max's table in his classroom

Our Easter breakfast tradition: Resurrection Buscuits

The marshmellows represent Jesus's body

After his death he was annointed with oil

Then burial spices

Then placed in the tomb

Then the tomb was sealed

3 days later the tomb was empty

Max is excited! He is Risen! He is alive!

Wesley's Easter basket

Max's Easter basket

Wes and Rory

Nanny and Wesley

He's ready to go!

Ended the day by playing in the creek

Uncle Johnny hosed them off when they were finished.

Max's 6th birthday weekend

2011-02-20T22:58:00.000-08:00

Wow, six. SIX! Six? Really? How is it even possible that I have a six year old? I think this was the hardest number for me. Five didn't bother me as much but I'm sure this one bothering me had a lot to do with him starting kindergarten the week he turned six. He has changed so much in the past year. He has had a huge growth spurt, he has lost all of his babiness in his looks, and he talks to you like a little grown up. He is witty and too smart for his own good. Yet, he is still my sweet boy that loves his mommy and I am glad he loves to have me around.

Max has always been one that knows what he wants and you usually can't make him change his mind once it's made up. Since his 2nd birthday he has always decided what kind of birthday he wanted and since his 3rd birthday he has decided where he has wanted the party to be at. For his 6th birthday he wanted a Scooby-Doo bowling party.

We had his party on his actual birthday since it was on a Saturday this year. We pretty much just invited the bigger kids he is friends with because I didn't think the little ones would like to bowl that much. Boy was I wrong! The few little ones that did come LOVED it and little Hudson bowled from the time they got there until his parents made him stop. Every one had a great time and Max said it was one of his best birthday party's ever!

The next day we headed down to Atlanta for another little birthday treat. Max's favorite singing group, The Akins, were having a concert for the making of a DVD. Max had started school on Thursday but didn't have to go back for his second day until the next Thursday because of the phase in system we have in our county. Since he didn't have to go to school on Monday, we were able to go to Atlanta and attend the concert and spend the night with my grandmother. My mom came with us and kept Wes at my Nanny's. Max is so funny sometimes, he really doesn't like doing things outside of his comfort zone and I had to force him to go. I only did it because I knew he would be fine once we were there and he would LOVE getting to see the Akins. Of course, mother knows best and after he got over his initial nervousness he had a good time. We were able to see The Akins after the concert and Max was super excited to see Nick.

He had a great birthday weekend. I am so thankful to be able to celebrate my boy's special days in the way they want. We always have fun and I can't wait to see what he picks for the upcoming year.

Max's cake was based off his favorite

Scooby-Doo episode,

Foul Play in Funland.

Max and Hank

Some of the girls waiting for their turn.

Cooper

Wes using the ramp to bowl with.

Hank

Little Hudson

Belle

My sweet nieces, Belle and Emma

Blowing out the candle

Present time!

Sweet Pia drew him a picture

Birthday lunch at the Varisty.

Birthday boy's pick!

Take a picture of me eating this, mommy!

Max and one of his most favorite persons,

Nick Akin

Happy 6th Birthday, my sweet Max. You are such a blessing and joy. I couldn't have asked God for a better boy. You are the light of my life, my first born son. I love you with all my heart and soul! I am so blessed to be your mommy!

Wesley's 2nd birthday

2011-02-15T10:46:00.000-08:00

Okay, I started this October and still haven't finished it so here it is finally!! I've got all summer that has to be caught up on but I have to post the biggest events of the summer and that's birthdays!

Our little wild man turned two in July and we had a great time at the Creative Discovery Museum in Chattanooga. My mom gave the boys a membership last year as a present it we have loved it! We wouldn't mind another one, hint, hint! :)

Since our little guy's most favorite thing is Mickey Mouse I of course had to do a Mickey Mouse party. He had the cutest invitations from Tula Designs! I love, loved them!! His party was early, 10:30, but that left us plenty of time to play in the museum the rest of the day.

In the party room the kids got to play, make crafts, and have their faces painted. Wesley started to let them paint and then changed his mind so he had a smeared half Mickey Mouse on his face the rest of the day.
We had cake, ice cream, and lemonade then the kids were off to play.

We thought we had lost Max for a few minutes because some friends of ours took Max with them and told Rex but Rex didn't inform anyone else of the fact so it was panic mode there for a bit until I found him and knew what was going on. I do have some of the greatest friends in the world and since Max was with them I did get to spend some one on one time with Wes in the museum while he did the smaller children's activities that Max doesn't want to do anymore. The upstairs exhibit changes every 3 months and the exhibit at that time was for body functions. It was pretty gross but all the boys absolutely loved it. I on the other hand was disappointed we didn't have the cute farmers market with the giant tree house that had just been there a few weeks before. But what boy doesn't like a giant boy that you pump air into his stomach to make him burp, a huge talking faucet with giant snot coming out of his nose, a machine that makes different pooting sounds, and one that has different body odors?

We always end our day at the water and overhead playground area. The water is Wesley's favorite and Max now loves all the pulleys and levies there. The kids all had a great time and Wesley loved it!

His actual birthday was the next day. After church we had more birthday cake and then I took Wes home and Max stayed at mom and dad's. He got his presents from us, a new tricycle and a bubble lawn mower, we played outside, got to have a tractor ride with daddy, and then had his supper of choice, McDonald's. It was a great birthday weekend with my little guy!

Happy 2nd Birthday, my wild little Wesley. You are such a joy! Even though you are stubborn, wild, and cranky a lot of the time you make up for it in your cuteness, silliness, and sweetness. My life wouldn't be complete with out my little monkey boy! Mommy loves you more than you can image and I am thankful God chose me to be your Mommy!!

His Mickey Mouse Clubhouse cake.

He still talks about it!

The birthday boy in the birthday chair!

My sweet boys, love them!!

Getting ready for face painting!

Neely

Cora

Making his birthday crown

Welsey, Max, Cooper, and Alex

Hudson, Wesley love Hudson!!

Meghan and Cason

Abby

he loved his Mickey Mouse phone

Emma and Belle

vacuming in the little yellow house

Snot, snot was his name

the burping guy

rooftop fun with Daddy

Jessi and PawPaw's playing the giant operation game

Oh, how I love this boy!

Where's Wesley? Oh behind his BB gun that is bigger than

he is!

Loves his new ride!

and lawn mower

Valentine's party

2011-02-11T22:49:00.000-08:00

I have no excuse, I simply have not blogged enough in the last year. The only reason is lack of time. Even though I am loving that the Lord has provided a way for me to make some extra money while staying at home, my little cake business is growing like crazy and keeping me super busy. I miss my blog and updating it regularly. Since I am wide awake at 1:30 am I'm gonna take advantage of the fact and do it now!

Today was Max's Valentine's Day party at school. Mrs. Baker had suggested that we do ice cream sundaes for the party so that's what we did. I know I've said it before but Max's class really is a joy to spend time with. They are all really good kids and they seem to get along really well for the most part.

They opened all their valentine's first while the mommies got the sundaes ready. One of the mom's also brought the cute heart shaped Krispy Kreme donuts for them. So they all got a nice sugar high at 9:30 in the morning. After they ate, they went back through their valentine's and opened candy, pencils, and tattoos. After helping apply countless tattoos to most of the kindergartners we got to leave early because it was a half day. Max had been home all week sick with the flu so I'm glad he was feeling better and was able to attend school and the party today. Thankfully, he is still loving school and really missed it this week. He was so excited to get back and to see his class mates. I feel so blessed to have him at a great school with a wonderful teacher and good classmates!

Waiting for the Valetine bags

Seriously studying this one

Ice cream sundaes

Max and Ethan

Max and his new table and table mates

Max and Luka

Ethan and Kaylee

Another weekend with The Akins

2011-01-26T07:53:00.000-08:00

One of our favorite times of the year is when The Akins come for a music revival in January. This family has been coming to our church for 12 years. One of the perks of being a preacher's kid is you get to spend time with ministers and their families when they come to visit your church. Sometimes, you get the great blessing of befriending some wonderful people. The Akins are some of these wonderful people. They feel like family and we love to chance to visit with them each year when they come.

The Akins have had an exciting year with one of their songs making it to #1 on the gospel music charts. They have a song right now that is #21, too. We are so excited for them and so glad God is blessing them through the success of their newest album!

Max LOVES, LOVES, LOVES the Akins. I didn't think anyone could like them any better than Max but little Wes loves them just as much. Wes only wants to and only asks to listen to The Akins in the car. He can sing along with every song and it sure is sweet to hear that precious 2 year old voice sings songs that glorify the Father! My parent's had them over to their house Friday night after the concert. It was my dad's birthday so we had a little birthday celebration, some food, and great fellowship. We had a blast playing Band Hero with them and laughed ourselves silly. The newest member of the Akins, Zach, is a perfect fit and felt just like family, too. Nick's wife, Julie, was able to come and she is one of the sweetest people you will ever meet. I am so thankful my boys have these awesome guys to look up to as role models. They are truly wonderful men doing God's work and it's so great for young men and even boys to see that with their own eyes. You know they love the Lord and are striving to walk in His path. We always have a great time but this weekend was really a fabulous one! We Love you guys and can't wait until next year!!

The Akins!

Wesley stood up and clapped along with everyone else!

Nick let Wes play his drums!

Max and Eli taking their turn at Band Hero

Rocking out

YMCA everybody!

Zach and Davey's turn

Now Davey is rockin out

Nick and Davey's turn

Wes had to get Paw Paw's man out.

Daddo's bday cake

Zack, Max, Wes, and Eli.

Wes LOVED Zach and sat between he and Eli most of the time.

Nick and Wes

Love this one!!

Max and Nick, with the spy glasses

Waiting for the last concert to start

My sweet little Wes

Clapping away

Not ready for this...

2011-01-14T14:48:00.000-08:00

Well several weeks ago a big transition took place in our household. Wesley figured out how to climb in and out his crib and wouldn't stay in his crib anymore. Then, shortly after after he got croup and I had to sit up on the couch with him every night for 5 nights in a row. So ended the sleeping okay in his crib alone. Max has never slept alone and we have tried everything to get him to sleep in his own bed without success.

During the middle of the night after being awaken by a slap to the face from Wesley, I had an epiphany! If both the boys want to sleep with someone they can sleep in the same bed in their own room and not myself in the bed with both boys getting no sleep.

I hadn't planned on taking Wesley's crib down when he was not even 2 1/2 but when you don't get sleep you do what you have to do. I was sad breaking down the crib not knowing if it will be last time I have a crib in the house but thankfully the boys are doing great in a double bed in their room. I told Max that if he could sleep all night long in his own bed for a month, then I would let him help pick out a bed and the bedding to go on the bed. We, thankfully, will be doing that soon. So, here are the last pictures of the crib and Max's first big boy bed.

Listen to beckybell31s Playlist

2011-01-14T14:26:00.001-08:00

Star of Wonder

2011-01-04T14:04:00.000-08:00

Both boys participated in the children's Christmas play this year. Max's age group started practicing in October for the program, Star of Wonder. Max was given the part of Falling Star, the comic relief and clumsy star fit him to a tee. Wesley and the three other boys his age at church were the wise men. The little rug rats didn't have to practice but just during the final dress rehearsal the day before.

The directors gave us a CD with the music on it for us to listen to and listen to it we did! Between it and the adult choir cantata that is all we listened to in the car for 2 solid months. Needless to say, both the boys new the songs to each backwards and forwards.

Out of all the children's programs I have seen over the years, this one was by far the cutest one I have ever seen. I'm not saying it just because my precious babies were part of it, it was just all around cute and all the kids did a fantastic job.

The older kids were doing great, they remembered their lines, and were singing out loud and strong. (Except for the 2 sisters/angels that were doing some very entertaining dancing, that is.) The Wee Kings came down the isle towards the end and everyone just lost it. They were so cute and started running around and making noises and just being 2 year olds. All that is except for my wild man Wes. He completely and utterly surprised me. He followed his instructions to the letter. He walked, yes walked, down the isle. Walked, again walked, up the stars onto the platform. WALKED across the platform, placed his gift onto baby Jesus, WALKED back across the platform, stood next to Max, and started to sing along with all the big kids. I couldn't get over it. Where did that wild child go that I had brought with me to practice the day before? The one that ran as fast as he could down the isle twice, ran up the stairs, ran across the stage, threw his present, and stopped to sing at ever single microphone he could get his hands on? Where did he go? I don't know but this precious angel was in his place and I have to admit I cried a little.

Everyone at church is still talking about how well they all did and just how cute it was. They all did excellent and I'm so proud of my 2 big boys!!

Role call

Falling Star

The stars

Wes being so good and singing along

My sweet boys

The whole gang

Wee King Wes and Aunt Shia

Wesley's first and second hair cut

2010-12-12T18:12:00.000-08:00

I have been putting off the inevitable, Wesley's first hair cut. Not knowing if he is my last child or not, I have tried to delay a lot of things with Wes and cutting off his precious curls has been a major one. I have trimmed his hair a couple of times but never truly cut them off. I decided to bite the bullet and get him a real cut a couple of weeks ago. His hair had gotten long and shaggy and really needed a real cut. Of course, I regretted it after the fact but thankfully the curls are coming back already. He did such a fabulous job that I was really in shock. He crawled up in the seat and sat pretty much still the entire time. He didn't cry or squirm. That boy surprises me often! Here are some pics of my big boy!

Well this morning, I was getting ready for church and Wes came into the bathroom. I walked out to get something and came back maybe a minute later and came in to find Wesley with sharp hair cutting scissors in hand and hair covering his fleece pajamas. Yes, my 2 year old cut his own hair. It was all at the top and he did leave a bald spot but thankfully it isn't that noticeable and the bald spot can be covered easily. So, little Wes gave himself his 2nd hair cut. I tried to get some pics but it's hard to get photos of a blond 2 year old head!!!

Some short pieces and part of the bald spot

Nice big bald spt with super short top!

Oh, this boy! What am I ever gonna do with him?

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-12-10T07:21:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving this year. My dad's two sisters and some of their family came up to my parent's house this year. We really did have a great day. The weather was absolutely perfect. The food was superb. We had some live music of guitars, mandolin, and vocals. It was just all around a fantastic day. The kids had a ball and all the grown ups enjoyed watching and sometimes joining in. It's so easy to forget to count our multitude of blessings in our day to day lives. I really love taking the month of November to think on and be thankful of all our blessings.

Max was finally able to decorate a cake all by himself

The turkey hat

Pretty sure he's looking at Paw Paw's

My sweet boys and me.

Cool dude with his shades on

Sweet little Autumn

My daddy and his two sisters

My most favorite people, my fam!

The cousins, all girls this day

Aunt Barbara's family

The Schaffers

Aunt Mot and Uncle David

I did it!

2010-11-16T06:38:00.000-08:00

Last night while I was cleaning my bedroom, Wesley comes in and starts tugging on my hand. "Come here! Come here, Mommy!" he says over and over again. "What is it, buddy?" I asked, not really wanting to stop what I was doing at the moment. "I show you. Come here, I show you." he says. I follow him down the hallway and into his room. He then proceeds to climb the rails of his crib and flip into his bed. He stands up with a huge grin on his face and exclaims, "I did it!" He was as proud as could be and my heart just sank a little. Of course, he continued to get in out of his bed for the next 10 minutes. Laughing the whole time.

Max never tried to climb in and out of the crib so he stayed in it a long time, till he was over 3. I really had planned on doing the same thing with Wesley. I'm just not ready for him to be getting so big. Not knowing if he is my last child, I have been trying to enjoy all the baby stages and really haven't wanted him to progress through them so fast! He, on the other hand, has no intentions of staying a baby. I just really am not ready for this. I want him to stay my cute, cuddly monkey forever. I know that can't happen but why do they have to change at such a fast pace? Well, here are some pictures of my wild man and his new trick!

Step One

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

I did it!

Of course Max had to join in on the fun. Wes is

ready to go again!

Halloween fun

2010-11-05T11:44:00.000-07:00

This may be long but I figured it would be the best and probably the only way I would get around to posting all our fun fall and Halloween activities.

Our first activity was the Monster Bash at the Creative Discovery Museum. This year they made it for memebers only and it wasn't as crowded as it has been in the past. They have special activities for the kids to do and all the workers are dressed in costumes. They offer marshmellow roasting, popcorn, and apple cider outside, as well. Roasting marshmellows was Max's favorite and Wesley loved all the character costumes.

Roasting marshmellows

Climbing the rock wall

Princess in the reading corner

Scooby Doo!!!

on the rooftop fun factory

Wes LOVED Spiderman. He kept going back

to talk to him.

Digging for dinosaur bones

Wes's favorite, the water works

He loved Scooby and the gang

Max had to have his picture made with this statue!

Our next fun filled activity was Boo in the Zoo. Nana's, Paw Paw's, Aunt Shia, and Aunt Jessi were able to come along with us. Also some friends Christine, Ben, and baby Ella were able to come. The boys had a great time going around the zoo. Max and Ben were focused on filling out their "puzzles" and we had to get that finished before anything else. They were given pieces of paper when they came in that had all the trick or treating stations and each station they were given a clue that completed the puzzle. It was a beautiful night, the perfect weather to be spent outside at the zoo. Unfortunately my camera batteries died as soon as we walked in the door so I only have a few pictures. Thankfully, my dad had his so I took a lot of pictures I just don't have them yet. Again, Wesley loved all the characters!

My cute Mario and Luigi waiting in line

for Boo in the Zoo

The boys with Scooby, then the

camera died.

Our next activity was pumpkin carving. Max and I got the pumpkins on his field trip and he asked every day if we could carve them. I told him we would do it on fall break and we did on his last day at home. Max pretty much did his on his own, after mommy and daddy did all the dirty cleaning work first that is. We did the outline of the eyes and noses for him to follow and he cut them out all on his own. Max loves being a big boy and Wes enjoyed digging in the pumpkins with a spoon.

Cute little Wes "cleaning" the pumpkins

Max hard at work

Still carving away

Trunk or Treat at our church this year on Wednesday before Halloween. We had a short Awana's meeting, ate hotdogs, and then Trunk or Treat. Wesley wasn't sure abou the Trunk or Treating at first. I had to carry him most of the way. Towards the end he finally got down and did it on his own. Max is an old pro by now and this is the first year he was really excited about it.

Wes and what is left of his mustache

Max and his Sparks class

Wes was saying Look!

Mmmmm, candy!

Max's class Halloween party was the next day. I was able to go and plan on being at all of his school activities that I can. The kids in his class are all sweet and they seem to get along really well. They just changed tables so Max wanted me to take pictures of his table mates. They had made spider hats earlier in the day and they wore them throughout the party. The parents all contributed and we had big goody bags for all the kids. Mrs. Baker lined them up after they were finished eating so we could hand out the bags. She even let them eat some candy and showed all of them how to eat the fun dip in their bags. Towards the end Max said, "This is the best party I've ever had!" My funny boy!

Max in his spider hat

Luka

Grayson

Kaylee

Their yummy snacks!

Mrs. Baker demonstrating the fun dip

Max and Luka

Andrew wanted in the picture, too.

Fun Dip, yum!

We decided to go Trick or Treating on Saturday night since the kids had play practice at church Sunday night. Our friends let us come to their house and go with them in their neighborhood. We started out togther but the big kids didn't want to wait on the little ones and Wes and Hudson were not in any kind of rush. Rex went with the other dads and the big kids and Jen and I stayed behind with the little boys. I think Wesley and Hudson ate candy the entire time they were Trick or Treating. We did a lot of carrying and didn't do all the house like the big boys. The boys had a great time and enjoyed a little play time with Cooper and Hudson afterwards as well.

Max in his mustache. He saved until

Halloween night!

Wes and Hudson and their suckers

Max and Cooper

Two sweet boys!

It was a great month of October! The boys really enjoyed all our fun activites and I can't wait for next year!!

First field trip

2010-10-25T08:02:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, Max had his first field trip. I was able to attend and hope I can make it to all of them! Rex said I should let him go by himself but as long as Max wants me there, I will be there!! We went to Guthrie's Pumpkin Farm in Riceville, TN. We had been there before as a family the first year Wes was born so it wasn't a brand new experience for Max but he was excited just the same. I think he was most excited about riding the bus because that is all he's wanted to do since the first day of school. Parents had to drive seperately and I was running late and needed gas so I didn't follow the bus as I had planned to.

We arrived and the bus load of children started piling out. Our group got to do the hay ride and pumpkin patch first. I love being able to see the interaction of Max with his classmates outside the classroom. When I volunteer it's always during classtime so there is a different dynamic than the carefree time on the field. We unloaded in the pumpkin patch and the hunt began. Max wanted to find the biggest pumpkin. We ended up almost at the very end of the patch looking for the biggest pumpkin! Of course, if mom wasn't there he wouldn't have been able to lug his huge pumpkin all the way back to the wagon! I got tickled because Max was searching for the biggest one and several girls were just as far out as us searching for the smallest pumpkins.

On the hay wagon ride to the pumpkin patch

Searching for that big pumpkin

still searching

a group of girls looking for baby pumpkins

Max and his prize pumpkin!

After picking our pumpkins we headed over to the petting zoo. The children were able to pet several animals and they all got a turn feeding a baby calf. Thankfully, a few of us had some change for the animal feed so they were able to feed the goats, too.

listening to instructions before entering the petting zoo

It's a calf!

Max should be an old pro at this!

Feeding the goats

Mrs. Baker, Max's teacher

The children did a small maze after seeing the animals. There were signs along the way with instructions for them to follow and at the end they each were able to ring a bell.

We finished with a movie about how pumpkins are grown, a class photo and lunch in the picnic area. The kids were able to leave with their parents after the field trip but Max kept saying he wanted to ride the bus back to school. He changed his mind at the last minute so we headed home. It was a fun outing and the kids did a great job!

Max and his classmates. It's hard to get a really good pic of 18 Kindergarteners!

My sweet boy and me!

First Day of Kindergarten-first quarter update

2010-10-17T07:56:00.000-07:00

Well my big boy did start school this year and I have to say that keeping him at home an extra year was one of the best parenting decisions I have made. Max was so excited and ready to go. He wasn't scared or nervous and didn't cling to my legs and cry for me to stay.

This was a huge step for him since he had not attended preschool and he wasn't used to being away from home all day every day. I was able to go with him the first couple of days and walk him to his class and stay for a little bit. That first day when it was time for the parents to leave he gave me a hug and said, "Bye, mommy. See you after school." I was a little teary eyed the first couple of days but I did okay. He didn't like the first time I dropped him off at the door in the car rider line but he got used to it quickly and that was the only thing he was ever a little uneasy about. He has adjusted smoothly and we thankfully have had no issues. He really likes to go and doesn't complain about going. The schedule has been a good thing for all of us but boy do we stay busy now!

He is excelling wonderfully! I am so amazed at how much he has learned in the last 9 weeks. He loves his teacher (so does Mommy) and all of his classmates. They all seem to get along really well. I have been able to volunteer several times in his class and I love going to help and getting to see what he is doing during the day. He got his first report card on Friday and he had all good marks and the teacher said he was an excellent student and a joy to have in the class. Good news to my ears.

At open house last week, each child had to write a sentence about their favorite thing at school and Max's said...I like the treat jar. Funny boy. He is invovled with the Good News Clubs on Thursday and he has really been enjoying that as well.

I'm so proud of my little guy and a little sad at the same time. It so hard to see your babies growing up, maturing, and becoming independant. I know it's a good thing and that it's my job as a parent to raise a responsible adult but it is just going by way, way, way too fast. Sometimes, I wish time could just stand still so I can hold on to them a little longer and they can stay little just a while longer. I'm sure as a parent you always feel this way and you learn to adjust and move on but all this growing up is bittersweet!

Here are some picutres of my big boy on his big day!

Heading to school with his backpack and lunch box.

Waiting for annoucments and to go to class for the first time. I

think he was a little nervous here but he kept telling

me he was fine.

In front of his locker in his classroom.

In his seat at his table.

Getting ready to start working!

I'm a part of the family of God

2010-09-13T11:18:00.000-07:00

I know it's been forever and I have a whole spring and summer to catch up on. I may never catch up but I'm gonna try. I couldn't decide where to start and finally decided on one of the best things that's happened in the last few months was where it had to be.

We have traveled, played ball, visited family, taken day trips, learned lots of new exciting things, and made new friends but I think the very best thing that happened all spring and summer is my precious Max was baptized. I think that has to be one of the proudest moments for me in his little life so far. Not only is he my earthly child but now he is my heavenly brother in Christ and I know he will be with me forever here on earth and for all eternity.

About 8 months ago Max started talking about the day he became saved or excepted Christ as His Lord and Saviour. He would always say, "You know that day I went in the bathroom at Nana's and PawPaw's and I prayed and asked Jesus to come into my heart, that was the day I got saved." None of us knew this day or what he was talking about because he didn't tell any of us about it that day. His story never changed not once, though. I had never told him he had to be with anyone else to be saved just the basics of what it meant to be saved and how to be saved.

I didn't press the issue but every time someone talked about being saved he would tell them he was saved and the same story of how he was saved. Recently, he started talking about being baptized. We have a follow up class at church that we have children go through to make sure they understand what salvation is and that being baptized and being a member of a church does not make you saved. He went through the class with the same story and I felt reassured because he knows without a doubt that he is going to live with Jesus for an eternity in Heaven one day. He answered those question load and clear and with more certainty than a 6 year old should have when he was asked before he was baptized.

I know some people are skeptical because he was 5 years old but let me tell he knows and he gets it. No, not all it in every detail but do we? He knows that he is a sinner, that God sent his Son to earth to die to pay for sins, and that he conquered death when he rose on the 3rd day. He believes Jesus is the Son of God, and asked him to forgive him of his sins, and to come into his heart, and save him from his sins so he can live for ever with Him.

I know adults have a hard time believing that it's just that simple but you know what, salvation IS just that simple. Now being a disciple of Christ as he's called us to be, that's the hard part. You don't have to know everything about the Bible to become a follower of Christ, all you have to do is believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God and he came to this earth to die for you. That he can cleanse you from all your sins and you can live with him for all eternity. All it takes is asking for His forgiveness! If you don't know him, won't you become a part of God's family today! I know the old song has an even sweeter meaning because now my own flesh and blood is a part of that family and I am so glad I'm a part of the family of God.

The pictures aren't the best but I was manning the camcorder!

I'm still here

2010-07-28T05:15:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a long, long while! We have had such a busy summer and with my cake business taking off all my spare time is gone. Hopefully, I can get back on here soon a play catch up will all the exciting things going on over our summer. Max has accomplished a couple of big first this summer and I really want to share them. Hopefully, I can get Wesley's birthday post on here soon as well! I'm still here, still love to blog, just got to find the time to get some posts on here! Keep watching we will return back to regular updates soon!

A week at Disney: Day 5

2010-07-02T07:43:00.000-07:00

On our last day at Disney just Jessica, the boys, and myself went. Let me say this, I will never go to Disney again on a Saturday. Oh my!!! It was packed! It took us 20 minutes just to get on the monorail to go into the Magic Kingdom. Crazy!! Wesley was all ready being difficult. He wouldn't ride in his stroller, wouldn't take any bribes I offered him to ride in the stroller, wouldn't walk, and only I could carry him.

I really wanted to get a picture of the boys with Mickey and Minnie together like last years and that was the main reason I brought Wes with us and of course, we didn't really get one!

Max and Jessi went to ride Goofy's Barnstormer while Wes and I waited in line to see Mickey and Minnie. Max chickened out the first time but said he was really going to ride it this time. While in line he had to go to the bathroom so again, they had to jump ship. He never did get to ride it because the line doubled by the time we got out of seeing Mickey and Minnie.

We went over to Tomorrowland to see about riding Space Mountain. The wait was an hour long and we couldn't fast pass it since we had already did it for Peter Pan. The boys would have never made an hour wait so we had to by pass that one! We took a little break in the shade and had some cheese and grapes and that helped the boys' attitudes a bit. We decided to walk back towards Peter Pan and the boys rode the caurosel twice. Wes LOVES the caurosel and it's line wasn't bad. He wanted to ride Dumbo but he was already getting more cranky and line was so long and it was so hot I knew he would never make it.

Both boys took a turn at the Sword in the Stone.

We still had time to kill before Peter Pan so we walked back over to Tomorrowland. We decided to take another break and get the boys an ice cream and it was here Wes totally broke down. He was screaming, kicking, and rolling around on the ground in the middle of Magic Kingdom. We got some dirty looks but thankfully it was short lived. He was fine once he had his Mickey Mouse ice cream in his hand.

We ended up riding the Tomorrowland tour cars just to kill some time and then fast passed the Buzz Light year ride. We went back and rode Peter Pan and then came back and did the Buzz ride. We were all tired and hot and in need of real food so we decided just to head out. It ended up being perfect timing for the parade. The boys had wanted a fan water bottle all week and I didn't want to buy one because they were $18. After carrying Wesley almost the entire day I broke down and bought one and let me say that was the best $18 I ever spent. He sat in his stroller the rest of the time just spraying the bottle over and over. He was soaking wet but I didn't even care at that point. I wish I had bought one sooner!!! The parade was great and we got a front row seat on the burning hot sidewalk!

The boys LOVED the band!

Mickey pointing at the boys!!

Jimminie Crickett

The boys were so excited to see Mary Poppins!

The ugly stepsister was talking to the man standing next to us.

The parade was the perfect way to end the day. We hit the gift shop on the way out and Wes finally went to sleep. It was a long, hot, fun filled day!

There were a few things we didn't get to do over our five days but it was so hard to get it all in. It would take 3 weeks to do all there is to do at Disney. We had a great time but I will never take another 1 almost 2 year old to Disney again!! Wesley LOVED it, he was so excited about everything, and he really enjoyed everything but all the waiting, containing him, and trying to keep him happy was awful!! He will be Max's age before we take him again. It was a great week and we had a blast but it was exhausting!! I am glad we went and the boys had such a good time! Lots of memories made and that's really what's it's about in the end!

A week at Disney: Day 4

2010-06-19T07:40:00.000-07:00

On our fourth day of fun-filled adventures we visited Animal Kingdom. This was everyone's first trip there and I have to say it is one of my favorites. It's a zoo and a theme park all rolled into one. My dad's back was hurting so he decided to stay at the room this day and we sure did miss PawPaw's.

As soon as you come into the park you are surrounded by vegeitation and wildlife. There are trees, flowers, plants, ducks, and birds.

Orchids blooming out of a tree.

Some of the duck in the pond

As you come further into the park you see the tree of life. It is huge!!

We just started walking not really sure what our plan was but headed towards the safari. We didn't get too far when we saw an African drum band. My boys LOVE drums and Wes loves dancing so we stopped to watch. Max wouldn't talk to them afterwards but of course Wes did!

Then they found more drums!

Max decided he wanted to meet Flick! I tried to get him to meet Ballew and King Louie from Jungle Book but he changed his mind after waiting in line a few minutes.

We found a great picture spot in front of the tree of life on our way to ride Expidition Everest!

Mommy, Wes, and Jessi

Close up of the tree

Max posing because he DID want his picture made.

Around this time we also discovered Wesley's love for rock candy. We bought a couple more packages of it for the rest of the trip but it didn't work as well as this day. He would ride in his stroller only if he had the rock candy to eat. After a couple of rough days I didn't care how much rock candy he ate!

Jessica, Rex, and I road Expidition Everest. It was super fun and exciting! You never knew if you what was going to happen. t went forwrds, backwards, and sideways. It made Rex a little sick but thank goodness for Dramamine!! Again, the attention to detail at Disney is amazing. The entire ride looked like a backpacking store with all kinds of tea, gear, and supplies. There was even an Everest museum to walk through.

The outside of the roller coaster

After this we decided to go ahead and ride the safari. It was awesome. It was in the middle of the day so we weren't sure how many of the animals would be out but we really got to see everything. Max LOVED it and Wesley actually took a pretty good nap during it! I won't show every animal becuase we saw so many but here a few of my favorites.

They called these upside down trees.

Some of the landscape

Max loved these cows with big horns!

Momma and baby elephant

Giraffes

Rhinos

Alligators, Not that I necessary like these but just look at how

many of them there are!

Once off of the safari, we did one of the walking tours that took you to see birds, plants, and the apes. We got to talk to a lady that words there just observing the behavior of the apes. The males and females were seprated and two of he males were having some kind of confrontation. It was very interesting to watch.

We were going to wait around the same area and for the parade to circle back but decided to keep walking and I am so glad we did. We got a perfect spot and the parade was one of my favorites. Wesley enjoyed every single parade we saw but Mickey played peek-a-boo with him in this one so he really loved!!

All the animals in the parade where gorgeous!

Miss Minnie

One of floats blew bubble and of course the boys loved that.

This is one of my favorite shots becuase I actually got a bubble

right close to my lense as the boys are catching bubbles.

Max got a fist pump from one of the cast members.

Timone!

Pluto!

Here is Micky playing Peek-a-boo with Wesley!

He is waving at him here.

We didn't have a whole lot of time left since this park closes earlier than the other parks. Max wanted to go see the characters so that is what we did instead of doing another attaraction.

Wesley and Turk

Nana's and Turk!

It's Mickey!!

Getting a high five from "Doofy" as Wes calls him!

Max and Turk

Had to hug Donald

Silly Max made Aunt Jessi do phots with him!

We had to leave the park since it was closing. I would have loved to been able to do more of the attractions plus we never even made it to the dino part. We went back to the room for a little rest. That night we went back to Magic Kingdom for the lighted night parade and for the fireworks. My camera didn't take any really good pictures of the night parade but it was great! The boys loved it!! The fireworks were fantastic!!! Max was so excited to see Tinker Bell fly off the top of the castle. It was an amazing day and we were all exhausted!!

A week at Disney: Day 3

2010-06-03T11:45:00.000-07:00

For our 3rd fun filled day we went to Hollywood Studios. The last time I went, it was back in the MGM Studio days! We actually got there around 10:00, suprise, suprise! It was so hot already that morning! Welcome back Florida heat, we really did not miss you Monday and Tuesday!

The gangs all here! Some a little

begrudgingly!

The area as you come into

Hollywood Studios.

The gang a little closer in!

We headed into the Playhouse Disney area first and went to see The Little Mermaid show. Max was not excited about this at all! He will not watch any princess movie, except Princess and the Frog, so he really didn't want to watch the show. My sister and I on the other hand really wanted to. It was one of our favorites growing up. It was so good! We loved it and Max really liked it after we watched it.

The one and only thing Max was concerned with was riding Toy Story. So, we went straight over to it next. It was a 50 minute wait but the Fast Pass time was already for 8:00 that night and it was only 11:00 am. The line for the ride looked just like Andy's room. The attention to detail at Disney is astonishing. The pictures that were on Andy's wall, the giant ViewMaster slides of Peter Pan and Disney World, the card board box western town with Mr. Potato Head wanted posters, and the giant talking, joke telling Mr. Potato Head himself were beyond belief! My mom had rented a motorized scooter and we had to take the handicap side and ended up having to wait an additional 35 to 40 minutes! It was the worst part of our trip. The ride was awesome, though! It was 3-D, you spun around and got to shoot at all kinds of targets. Max LOVED it and Wesley enjoyed it, too!

Giant view master slide

How Wesley passed some of the

time during our long wait!

The ceiling was coverd with all different types

of board games.

Andy's drawings on the walls.

The cardboard box Sheriff's office

We headed back to the Playhouse Disney area so we could take Wes to see the show there. My dad and sis rode the Tower of Terror while we did the show. I am not a fan of anything that falls!!!! The show for the Playhouse Disney characters was great and Wesley LOVED it, after the melt down he had before it started. It had all his favorites: the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse gang, Handy Manny, The Little Einstein gang, and My Friends Tigger and Pooh. When it was finished we got in line to see Handy Manny. Wesley was having a fit, screaming "See Manny! See Manny!" I kept telling him we had to wait and he was wiggling in my arms so I put him down. He took off like lightning, like he always does when he wants something, weaving in and around people, going under the ropes, until he got to Manny. He ran up, gave him a high five and hug, and was done. I have no photos since he broke line, I had to chase after him, and my camera was in the stroller. Of course, since he already saw him he definitely wasn't going to wait to see him now!

Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Gang

Handy Manny

My Friends Tigger and Pooh

Little Einsteins

After the show we decided to head to the main road to watch the parade. It was cute and the boys got to see a lot of their favorite characters. It was super hot and the boys were tired and cranky and didn't enjoy it as much as some of the other parades. Rex did catch a ball that Woody threw out at the end of the parade, though. Max was super excited about that!

From there we went to ride The Rockin' Roller Coaster. We had fast passed it and had some time to spear and I finally got Wesley to go to sleep so we just had a little down time in the shade while Dad, Jess, and Rex road the Tower of Terror again. The Rockin' Roller Coaster was AWESOME! It took off so fast I couldn't even breathe for several seconds. It was in the dark with black lights. It was so good Jess and I road it again a second time as soon as we had finished.

Max was wanting to see the Cars characters so went to the backlot studios area. There was a really good band playing that the boys liked. We stopped and listened for a while. The back lot area is so cool! The main street looks like New York City. We found Lighting McQueen and Mater but Max just wanted to look at them and not have his picture made with them. Wesley has a new found love of tatoos and there was a tatoo station in the same area. He, of course, had to have a Mickey tatoo. It unfortunatley came off by the next day. We were bummed that the Muppets was closed for restoration. It was one of my favorites from when I was a kid and I was really looking forward to it.

My favorite name for the store on the New York street.

I turned around the discover the view from behind.

On of the side streets was San Fransisco

It's Mater!

Lightning McQueen!

Wesley found anoter fountain he loved!

The Muppets Fountain!

Patiently getting his tatto.

All done!

Showing off his tattoo

On the way out, Max, Mom, Jess, and I did the Star Wars ride which Max loved! It was so hot and we were all so tired, we decided to call it a day. We had some dinner and then some down time at the pool. Next installment Animal Kingdom!!

A week at Disney: Day 2

2010-05-23T18:44:00.000-07:00

We got a late start again on Tuesday but headed out to Epcot after lunch. This was all of our first time to Epcot and I really wish we could have made it back to see more of it.

First getting into Epcot.

Another view of the sphere with some

beautiful flowers

Donald, Daisy, and Goofy topiaries that

are roasting marshmellows over

a fire.

They had a festival of flowers going on while we were there. It was absolutley beautiful! There were tons of character topiaries and flowers every where you looked. Max was so excited when he first saw the globe. He said, "It's the real globe I see pictures of on the Disney Channel!" We road the ride that is inside the globe first. It is a slow moving 18 minute interactive ride. It was neat. It gave a little "history" of how humans have changed over time but it was little to far on the evolution side for my taste. Once you get to the top it is totally black and looks like the night sky. The turn you around and tilt you backwards so you can see the stars. My dad and Max were riding in front of us and they weren't paying attention when it asked for a language and somehow they got Japanese. Dad said he would have enjoyed it a lot more if he had heard what was being said! :)

We headed over to the character meeting spot so the kids could see all the beloved Disney friends. It was a long wait and so we decided to do something else. We didn't make it too far when we ran into to Chip and Dale. Dale snuck up on Max and he thought it was hilarious. Wesley couldn't wait to meet them. Max changed his mind once in line and never would come and see them. Wesley on the other hand couldn't stop hugging them!

Finally, it's his turn!

Getting their autograph!

Now Chip!

Chip and Dale were so cute and really

played around with the kids.

After seeing how much Wes loved seeing Chip and Dale, I changed my mind and decided to go ahead and wait in line to see all the characters. The line moved pretty fast and it was only about a 35 minute wait. Once we got close enough to see Mickey Mouse, we had a hard time making Wesley wait for his turn.

Mickey got a hug first thing, too.

Max wanted the autograph first.

Wesley just wanted to talk to Mickey not

get his picture made.

Next was Pluto!

Wes was a little mischevious here.

He ran behind Pluto and was pulling on his tail and

then he ran behind the set design to try to get back to

Mickey Mouse.

Max wouldn't go see Minnie. He said he didn't like girls

and didn't want to get his picture made with one. Wes gave her

a hug but ran away as soon as he did.

Both of the boys were excited about seeing Donald!

Max was most excited about Goofy! Goofy is his favorite!

The boys LOVED seeing all the characters which made it so worth the wait! We headed over to the Nemo ride next. I didn't take any pictures in there but I wished I did. The ride was super cute and at the end, it brought you out into a small aquarium. They had all kinds of sea life. We spent another good 30 to 40 minutes in the aquarium part. They even had a tall circular tank that had Nemo, Dorie, and Nemo's dad in it.

Max actually got lost for a few minutes once we started moving on to something else. I had Wesley and thought Max was with Rex. I had taken Wesley to see some Nemo scultpures and my mom all of a sudden asks, "Where's Max?" I turned to say, "He's right there" but all that I got out was, "He's right..." He was no where to be seen. Panic was all I was trying not to do but thankfully Rex walked right back to where we had been and Max was just standing there crying. He must have just not been paying attention and we all thought someone else had him. I mean I can't blame him, it's very easy to get distracted at Disney, there is just so much to see. Needless to say he didn't get out of our sight again the rest of the trip!

Jessica, my younger sis, was flying in that night and we didn't have tons of time left so we decided to head over to the area with all the different countries. We stopped by the Honey I Shrunk the Audience but it was been made into something else but decided to get on another ride at the Imaginarium. Max started talking to a man that worked there and he ended up being a manager. He walked Max inside and showelhd him a lot of things on the way in. Max for some reason got scared and didn't want to ride. Rex stayed with him but the manager finally got him on it and Max really liked it. Just another reason to love Disney!

We passed a playground on the way to the countries and both the boys wanted to play. Since they had played in the Imaginarium area after the ride and played on the play ground, we ran out of time and didn't make it into the back part of Epcot. I really regret that because I have heard it is wonderful. I had planned on bringing Max back to watch the fire works at Epcot that night but he wanted to swim after we ate dinner so that's what we did.

We didn't do as much as I would have liked but the kids loved it and it was another great day!!! Hollywood Studios on the next installment!!

A week at Disney: Day 1

2010-05-17T10:50:00.000-07:00

We left out Sunday afternoon to head down to Orlando. We made it to the resort at about 12:30 am. It wasn't until 2:00 am that we finally made it into bed. The boys were awake around 8:30 so we were all dragging Monday morning. We finally made it into Magic Kingdom a little after 3:00.

Wes and Paw Paw's headed to

the Monorail

We finally made it into

Magic Kingdom!

on the train

We decided to get on the train and ride straight to Mickey's Toontwon Fair and try to see Mickey and Minnie first. The wait was 45 minutes at that point so we decided to do something else and come back later. Wesley wanted to play in the little play area there and Max said he wanted to ride Goofy's Barnstormer. He chickened out once we got close, though. My dad and I road it without him. I was sure once we got on he would change his mind but he didn't.

We then headed over to Winnie the Pooh and road it. This is my favorite ride. I love Winnie the Pooh but the ride is super cute with all the bouncing, floating, and listening to the story book. It was super crowded and the wait times were long at every ride. Max was dying to ride Peter Pan but the wait was an hour and the Fast Pass time was already at 8:00. We fast passed it anyway but didn't end up staying that late.

Wes had to ride with Paw Paw's

and Nana's

Max rode with Mommy.

Next we road Small World. Max and Wes both enjoyed it. It was nice to be in air conditioning for a good 10 minutes, too!

Daddy and his boys

riding into Small World

Wesley had to ride with Paw Paw's again.

From Small World we decided to head over to Tomorrow Land and ride Space Mountain. It was closed last year when we went and all the big kids wanted to ride it. Max wanted to walk through Cinderella's Castle and we decided to stop and get a Mickey ice cream. Wesley throughally enjoyed his!

We stopped and looked at a fountain at the back side of the castle because our little Wes LOVES water and fountains. Of course he can't keep his hand out of them either!

back side of the castle

If you have never walked through it you need to. There are beautiful glass mosaics on the walls depicting stories of the princesses.

Once on the other side, everyone was just wiped out and we decided to call it a day. Wesley was beyond controlable at that point and Max was pretty much over it himself. First a few shots in front of the castle.

I had promised Max we could ride the ferry boat pack to the parking lot and of course the boys wanted to ride on the top. We made several trips up and down the steps with wild man Wes but we made it back in one piece. On the tram ride back to the car, Dad was using mouthing the words the driver was saying and the boys thought it was hysterical. The laughed and laughed!

giving Mommy sas for taking his picture

swinging from the hand rails

laughing at Paw Paw's

We had a good day but we just so tired. We headed back to the room for some dinner and pool time. More to come tomorrow!

Guitars and pjs

2010-04-24T13:46:00.000-07:00

Just give this boy a guitar and he's happy!

Easter Sunday, finally

2010-04-21T17:28:00.000-07:00

Well, it's taken a while but I am finally going to finish my last Easter post. Between sickness, baseball, preparations for my surgery, and surgery I just haven't had time (or been able to for several days).

We had a great Easter Sunday! I woke Max up a little early so we could make Resurrection Biscuits but first he had to visit the basket the Easter Bunny had left him. It was nice to get to see the boys go through theirs one at a time instead of together.

Looky, looky! Someone visted Max

and Wesley!

Dennis the Menace on DVD!

No more rewind the VHS!

Got to have that chocolate bunny!

I had seen several friends post about making empty tomb biscuits on their Facebook pages and blogs and wanted to make them this year. I decided to do them on Easter Sunday for part of our breakfast and talk about the real reason we were celebrating Easter that day. Max, in true form, loved making the biscuits and did a wonderful job as always. I am sure Wesley will make huge messes when he gets big enough to cook, since Max always does so well! :)

Flattening out the biscuits to

make the tombs

The marshmellows represent The

Body of Christ. Dipped into butter

which stands for the oil that was

to annoint his body in the tomb.

Doing the work on his own.

The body in the burial spices

(sugar and cinnamon).

The body was place in the tomb.

The tomb was sealed.

When they came back, the tomb was empty!

When we broke open the buscuits we said,

"The tomb is empty! He is risen!"

After we put the biscuits in the oven I got Wesley up so he could see his Easter basket. He of course wasn't as excited as Max but did like the bag of gummies that were left for him.

Hmm. what's all this?

Not too sure what to do. Just looking.

Finally, he gets into it!

After church we headed to my parents for lunch and more egg hunting. Wesley got bored very, very quickly so Max did most of the hunting. He liked the eggs filled with money the best!

And he's off!

Serious egg hunter!

Why would I want to hunt eggs when I can ...

rake...

and use it upside down?

Still on the hunt!

MONEY!!!!

Why not end the day with a friendly

game of Uno?

It again, was a wonderful Easter! Just the most beautiful, perfect spring day to celebrate the death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! I hope yours was a wonderful as ours. I truly hope that if you have only celebrated with the world's idea of Easter that you will come to know the true meaning of this day so you may celebrate in a whole new way next year! Lots of love!!

Day at Dollywood

2010-04-08T14:15:00.000-07:00

I, for the first time, along with most of my family went to Dollywood. I have been to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge countless times in my life and have never been to Dollywood. We had to opportunity to get some discounted tickets so we seized it.

It was an absolutely gorgeous day. It was sunny and warm but not accompanied with the usual humidity we get to experience here in the south. I was very impressed by how clean the park was. It wasn't overly big and there is a ton to do there. One of the first things Max wanted to ride was the water rapids ride. He talked my dad into and they both got soaked! Max couldn't talk me into that one! We then did the 50's antique cars. Wesley loved being able to drive. He laughed and laughed the entire ride. I was once again impressed about the fact they have booster seats and are self propelled so that the little ones can drive. The boys had to ride the train and we all got covered in coal soot since we were towards the front and it’s a real train run on coal.

The only down part of our day was lunch. Boy, did we choose the wrong place to eat. This is truly the only negative thing I can say about the entire day, though!

We headed to the carnival town after lunch. Max loved the bumper cars, chickened out of the ferris wheel, but did ride the kid’s roller coaster. I was so proud because he wouldn't ride the kid’s roller coaster at our local amusement park last year. Wesley road every one of the kiddy rides. He loved the bees, which I had to force Max onto. He didn't not want to ride the baby rides and was not happy about having to ride it! My dad, sis, and I did the giant spinning top ride and it was A LOT of fun. I took Max on the Lemon Twist (tea cups) while dad took Wes on the flying elephants.

We walked around and checked out some more of the park and did a few more things. We didn't even make it to any of the shows this time. I was surprised at just how much there is to do there. We decided to upgrade to season's passes while we were there so we will be able to go whenever we make our trips up to Gatlinburg. Max is ready to head back up there and I wouldn't mind going again soon myself. It was a great day with the family. I love having a close family that likes doing fun things together!

Uncle Joe was sitting outside Aunt Granny's

with his guitar. Max loves to pick and takes

it very seriosly!

This little one loves it, too!

Max and PawPaw's drying off in the dryer.

Dad said it was worth the $3!

Wes riding the Lucky Ducky

He kept looking for the man making the pig noises.

Wes, ready to fly.

Max, ready to die.

At least Max is upright at this point.

Wes loved it! It wasn't that bad for Max, either.

Getting ready to ride the roller coaster.

The Dollywood Express

We had to watch it take off. These

boys love trains. Max isn't sun burnt, he

just turns very red when he's hot!

Even Wesley sat patiently waiting for the train

to take off.

Want to win a Nikon D40?

2010-04-05T09:19:00.001-07:00

I do! Go here for your chance to win!

Cookies and eggs

2010-04-03T16:05:00.000-07:00

I said we werent going to do it but we did it anyway. Don't get me wrong. I like making cookies, decorating, them, and sugar cookies with butter cream, it doesn't get much better than that. Max always wants to make cookies but they are so time consuming and he usually gets bored after two cookies and I end up doing all the work. I pre iced the cookies so they would be ready to decorate and Max did almost as many as I did. He made a special cookie for everybody in the family. So, I am really glad I decided to go ahead and make them this time. If you notice several repeat patterns it's because I would finish a cookie and Max would say, "Mommy, that is so pretty! Can you do another just like it on this cookie?" How can you say no to that?

Piping expert in the making.

These are mine.

Most of these are Max's

He had to put "Jim" on Paw Paw's cookie.

He is going to leave one of the bunnies for the

Easter bunny to eat.

Max's favorite thing to do for Easter is dye eggs. He starts asking as soon as we start talking about Easter. Since we were going to Dollywood on Thursday, I decided to go ahead and do them on Wednesday. He had to use every color they put in the package and we only dye a few more than a dozen so they are pretty much all different colors. We always dyed eggs when I was growing up and I love carrying on some of my childhood traditions. We do hunt with our dyed egss, too. I bring them with us to my mom's on Sunday and we hide them along with all the plastic eggs. Then on Monday, I normally make a big patch of egg salad.

I try to let him do as much as he can on his own. He will put the deocrations on them, color them with the invisible crayon, put them in the dye, and then turn them over every couple of minutes. We let them sit for a while becuase I like them bright and bold. He can scoop them out of the containers but it's hard to put them in the cardboard container to let them dry. He did a great job and didn't even make a big mess!

Fixing to dip the first egg

All the fiinished eggs

The hunt is on

2010-03-30T13:27:00.000-07:00

Our annual church Easter egg hunt was on Saturday. It was rather chilly at first but thankfully it warmed up by the time we got around to hunting the eggs. I hate not being able to see both the boys hunt eggs since they are in different age groups but we always hunt them again on Easter Sunday so that makes up for it a little bit.

Wesley did good but he would get several eggs in the basket and then wanted to dump them out. He got bored very fast and decided he would just rather throw rocks in the gravel lot instead.

Max filled his basket all the way to the top and was very proud of himself. He tried to help Wesley hunt some when he was finished but Wes really didn't care.

We enjoyed a lunch of hot dogs and chips in the fellowship hall. Max won the big prize for his age group, a big stuffed duck, which the boys have fought over for days. Wesley likes to squash his mouth and say "Quack, quack", in a surprising low voice. Which then sends Max over the edge, "Don't touch my duck!" Seriously, the boys can fight over anything. I bet it is going to stay that way for a long time!

Keep looking for all the Easter activities to follow this week: Easter cookies, dying eggs, Easter Sunday, and more egg hunting! I love Easter!!!!

Ready or not, here he comes!

Captured him mid dump

Trying to get a picture together

Oh well, I finally gave up!

Man, that was one good nap!

2010-03-28T11:57:00.000-07:00

The true sign of when I know Wesley has had a really good nap? His hair! This is his best yet!

When life hands you lemons...

2010-03-16T17:26:00.000-07:00

EAT THEM!!!

Maxism for the week 3/8/2010

2010-03-08T17:29:00.000-08:00

Man, I know it's been another long laps in Maxisms! I know you love them as much as I do, so here goes!

During our last snow day, he looked out the window and said. "When the snow makes big flakes, it's called big flakin." (I have to do it in the in' without the g because that is how my country boy says it!)

After another snow day, he looked out the window and said, "It's beautiful! I just like a winter wonderland!"

"Mommy what is the name of that song we sang, that says he punched me to victory?" He was talking about Victory in Jesus, he plunged me to victory.

"We won't be sinners in heaven, will we? When you get hungry, Jesus will feed you. When you are thirsty, He will give you a drink."

"You have got to see this! There is a dog wearing glasses. You won’t' believe it!"

"A d is a line with a fat belly."

"Wow! That was delightful!"

"If you poot in the oven, it would explode!" I told him we didn't need to test that theory out.

"Real cowboys have a horse and a gun."

Why use towels...

2010-02-28T15:34:00.000-08:00

when you can just get in the dryer?

Spaghetti anyone?

2010-02-15T17:51:00.000-08:00

It's not good unless you get it all over your face, on you hands, chest, arms, in your diaper and hair!

Let's not forget the tray, in the seat, and floor as well.

This kid cracks me up!

2010-02-05T19:23:00.000-08:00

Who knew a pair of glasses could be so fun? Sometimes, I could just eat him up! :)

Kroger 2/3/10

2010-02-04T13:07:00.000-08:00

Another great trip at Kroger's this week!!! I love their Mega Deals!!!!

2 boxes New York Frozen Italian Cheese Bread
4 boxes Capri Sun
2 bottles French's Mustard
2 jars salsa (can't remember the brand but I had a great coupon, thanks mom!)
1 package Oscar Myer Deli Selects Turkey Breast
2 boxes Pillsbury Toaster Struddle
1 package Sister Schebert's yeast rolls
1 package Mission flour tortillas
2 cans Rotel
4 packages Kraft block cheese
2 containers I can't believe it's not butter spread
2 bags Pepperidge Farm goldfish
1 Smithfield pork tenderloin
1 package Quilted Northern bath tissue (12 double roll size)
2 boxes Whole Wheat Ritz crackers
2 boxes Wheat Thins

Total before savings $96.91

Total OOP $25.55

Total savings $71.36

We love those snowy days!

2010-02-01T09:23:00.000-08:00

Wow, it actually snowed this weekend. Not just a dusting but a real snow! It hasn't snowed this much in 8 to 10 years. Growing up here, we always had a least one good snow every year. Those snowy days are some of my best memories from growing up in our neighborhood. Max has never seen this much snow. We have seen enough to have gone sledding a few times but a couple have been at night and the last one it was early in the morning and all the snow was gone by that evening. The news said we got 3.5 inches in our area, I know we got at least that much at our house. We still have snow on the ground today, 3 days later, but sadly all of it is melting away as I type. Large chunks have been falling off the roof all morning, actually.

Friday evening, I layered up the boys and myself, put on their heavy coats, gloves, hats, rubber boots, and out we went. Daddy was actually at home to play with us this time so he got to do all the leg work, it was a nice change for me. Rex's cousin, his wife, and their daughter came over to play and sled with us. The kids had a blast. They sled down the hill, threw snow, made snow angels, fell down a lot, and ate quite a bit of it. Rex and Colby built a very large snowman and Max helped out some. Wesley was content just eating the snow while they worked. We spent a few hours out in the wet and cold but had to head back in once it started getting dark. I am so glad we have family close by so my boys can grow up doing fun things with their cousins.

Max wanted to show me something, he started sledding and half way down he fell over on his face.

He got up and said, "Wait, that is not what I wanted to show you!"

Making snow angels

Kissing cousins

All three sledding together.

Daddy took Max out to play in it on Saturday for a little while when Wesley was napping. We really enjoyed our wintery weekend and I am so glad they have gotten to see some real snowfall this year.

Ingels and Kroger 1/27/10

2010-01-27T13:16:00.000-08:00

Ingles

4 Oikos Greek yogurts
2 cans Pilsbury Grands biscuits

Total before savings $10.45
Total savings $8.28
Total OOP $2.17

Kroger
2 packages Pepperidge Farm Goldfish
4 cans Rotell tomatoes
2 16oz containers Daisy sour cream
2 bottles Frank's Hot Sauce
2 bottles French's mustard
2 packages Mission Tortillas
2 boxes Pillsbury Toaster Struddells
2 boxes Quacker chewy granola bars
1 box I can't believe it's not butter baking sticks
1 bottle French's Worchestershire sauce
1 bar of Axe deoderant

Total before Savings $45.99
Total OOP $11.72
Total Savings $34.27

Daily Grand Totals

Total OOP $13.89

Total Savings $42.55

Publix and Bi-Lo 1/26/10

2010-01-26T12:37:00.001-08:00

Publix
1 Red Baron Pizza
2 bags Genisoy Soy Crisps
2 bottles Kraft salad dressing
6 cans Hunts tomatoes
1 package Morningstar Farms Chick' patties
2 boxes Ritz crackers
2 jars Bertolli spaghetti sauce

Total Befor Savings $45.04

Total savings $27.88

Total OOP $17.16

Bi-Lo
1 6-pack Pepsi Cola
1 box Chicken Helper
1 package Life Savers gummies
1 box Premium saltine crackers
1 box Southern Home saltine crackers
3 cans Chef Boyardee
2 Sparkle paper towel rolls
2 4 packs Angel Soft bath tissue
1 small pack Pampers Cruisers
1 dozen large eggs
1 Stouffer's Lasgna
1 Peppperidge Farm garlic bread
1 Pepperidge Farm lemon cake
1 can cream of mushroom soup
3 Delmont fresh fruit cups
1 bunch brocoli
1 3lb bag yellow onions
1 1lp bag carrots
1 box Bryan frozen corn dogs
1 large package split chicken breast
1 boneless tip roast
1 value pack ground chuck
1 bag tilapia fillets

Total before savings $113.21

Total savings $52.32

Total OOP $60.89

Total OOP $78.05

Total Savings $80.20

Faith

2010-01-23T09:20:00.000-08:00

Lately, I have been journaling more on my blog more. I just recently remembered how much I used to love to journal and stopped not long after I got married. I was reminded by someone how important it is to write things down so you can see how far you come. So here are a few of my thoughts and ramblings.

Faith. It has been on my mind a lot here recently. Why is so easy to have faith in some things and so hard to have faith in others? Just today, while driving down the road, I passed under a bridge that is being constructed. I have passed underneath this bridge hundreds of times without ever thinking about it. I have faith that the people building this bridge are doing what they should and it won't collapse on my car while I drive under it. I have faith that when I ride an elevator it will take me to the top without any problems. I have faith that I will make it home and back safe every time I go out without ever a second thought. We put our faith, blind faith, in things all the time but when it comes to spiritual faith it's another story.

How can someone have faith enough to get on a plane and fly around the world but not have enough faith to believe in Jesus Christ? People accept that an explosion just created all that we see easier than believing there is a God and that He created the world in seven days. People accept things so out of the realm of our comprehension like how gravity works, keeps up standing up straight, but you can travel to somewhere towards the top or bottom of the earth and still be standing in the same direction. We can accept all that but can't except that Jesus is God's Son; he came to earth, lived a perfect life, and died on the cross to be the ultimate sacrifice for our sins.

Maybe it's because to believe in Christ, means your faith will be tested. When you believe, you become accountable for what you do and say. You have people watching you to see how you will show your faith. If you don't believe in God, then there are no consequences for your actions. Of course, that is not the case. We will all be judged one day whether you believe here on earth or not. I just think most people who don't believe are just self absorbed and really don't want to have to work for or towards anything or anyone but themselves. It’s the way we are wired, our sinful nature is all about me, self. So, if there is no belief then you don’t have to depend on someone else to meet your needs. When you believe, you have to give up control of your life. God will see what you are willing to give to Him and what you are willing to do for Him, He will test your faith.

I know what faith is, I have seen it firsthand. Maybe it makes it easier for me to believe because I have seen it. My parents had blind faith, when they moved off from home and left everyone they knew and loved behind to do what God was calling them to do. Because of their faith, I saw things growing up I wouldn't have seen otherwise. I am not saying my parents didn't work hard and that God just gave us handouts, it was just the opposite in fact. The Lord met our needs whether big or small because my parents did their part and had the faith to believe God would provide whatever we lacked. It's not always glamorous but He always gives in the way sees best. I don't have the best car or the nicest house but I am able to stay at home with my children, debt free, because I was willing to sacrifice some things in order to what the Lord wanted me to do. He has brought me opportunities to make extra money for my family several times and I have faith he will continue to do so as long as I am willing to listen and respond when talked to.

I have never had to experience life altering circumstances that really test my faith to the limit but I think those little trials and tribulations are just as meaningful. If you are never tested, how could you ever grow? If you never grew, how would your faith ever hold in the times of tremendous struggles? I still feel like I am a new Christian a lot of time because I really didn't start living for the Lord and listening to His voice until I had my children. I have a lot of head knowledge but my heart knowledge is just now starting to catch up. I know with all of my being that the Lord was calling me to do something as a teenager and I didn’t listen. I changed coarse and, in essence, changed His will for my life. I know I didn’t step out with blind faith and I took a different path. I then walked away from my faith for a while. I didn’t want to face the decision I made, so I tuned His voice out. I just now am getting back on track and listening to His voice again. I am learning to listen to that small voice and learning when to step out on faith and let the Lord to guide me in the way He deems best. It is amazing how freeing it has been just to let go and give it all to Him. I don't worry about all things that are out of my control, I have stopped playing the “what if game”, I am trying to focus on the here and now, I am working on my walk and heart, I am trying to do what He wants me to do, and looking forward to the days to come. I want to be sure, if I ever do have one of those life altering circumstances that my faith does not waver and I can have joy and peace in the storm.

A weekend with the Akins

2010-01-19T11:31:00.000-08:00

Every year a family singing group, The Akins, comes to our church. They have been coming for about 10 years now. There is the dad, David, and his three sons, Davy, Nick, and Eli. They are grounded in The Word and in their faith, down to earth, sweet, funny, and very, very talented men. Max LOVES them! He gets so excited every time they come and very upset every time they leave. He loves them all but Nick is his special buddy.

He was so excited when I read to him from the bulletin one Sunday morning, "Do you want to spend a weekend with The Akins?" He thought he was going to get to spend the night with them and was very disappointed when I told him they would just be here for the weekend, it didn't mean he got to spend the night with them.

They were here for Friday night, Saturday night, and both Sunday services. Wesley really enjoyed the music, he clapped along with the songs, danced, and clapped at the end of each song. Max loved the music as always. After the services were over each night, Max would wait on pins and needles until they let him play their drums and guitars. Wesley loved playing the drums, as well. So much so that he pitched a huge fit one night when we had to take him off the drums to leave.

The Akins have released a new CD and it is awesome. The songs and lyrics are their best yet! They are currently working to make it to the big leagues. Their current single, I want my stage to be an altar, made it to the #8 spot on the Singing News Chart last week. They were super excited and so were we! They are such a blessing and the Lord always works in me when they come. It was a wonderful weekend full of great music and lots of laughs. We can't wait unitl next year!

Wesley singing.

Nick and Max

Max and Nick playing drums

Max doing rim shots for Nick's jokes

Wes loving the drums

Max with Eli's guitar. Eli built this guitar and another he brought with him. He is amazing!

Eli helping Max out with playing.

These boots were made for walkin'

2010-01-13T18:48:00.000-08:00

Wesley loves shoes, loves everyones shoes. He decided to take a walk in my new ankle boots I got for Christmas. I actually was able to capture it on my new Flip video camera! Thanks Mom for the camera and Jessi for the boots!

Week one

2010-01-11T13:06:00.000-08:00

Well, I survived the frigid temps and was actually able to stay pretty well on track. I missed one workout this week because it was planned for Thursday and since it snowed we lost one day. My sweet friend, Jen, invited me to join her at her gym on Saturday morning and we exercised together. I may just have to find a way to come up with the extra money for the gym so I can always have somewhere to run and I would really like to do some aerobics classes, as well.

The group as a whole is starting over with week one with our training program since most ladies only got one session in. Thankfully, it will be a littler bit warmer than last week. Not much better but hey, any thing above freezing is good at this point.

I did pretty well on my diet and only had one bad day. I lost 5 pounds so I can't complain! I am excited about our walk/run tonight! I think we have decided to shoot for a local 5K in April through the Chickamauga Battlefield. That should be a really good practice run for us! I am staying on track! I will do this! :)

Resolutions

2010-01-05T12:55:00.000-08:00

I am not usually one for making resolutions mainly because I just don't stick to them and it's always the same thing, loosing weight.

I have always struggled with my weight and some years I do achieve weight loss and then of course pack the lbs right back on later. I did loose about 15 pounds last year but gained most of it back once I got off the diet I was on. It is always a constant yo-yo with me, no permanency here.

This year my resolution is to get healthy. I want to be a fun, active mom. Yes, I know I am those but I want to be fun and active in different ways. I really want my kids to have a healthy, physically active role model to look up to. I want my kids not to struggle with weight issues their entire lives. I know if they see their parents exercising they will know and understand that it has to be a part of life to maintain a healthy lifestyle. I used to go to an aerobics class I loved and did it for a couple of years, when I stopped exercising, I started packing the pounds back on. I still have never found anything I liked as well as that class to this day! I have tried and tried to exercise at home but that is just not happening with two wild boys running around, stopping my DVDs, and asking nonstop for things while I try to exercise. I would love a treadmill but I have absolutely no room in my current home for one. I have thought about the gym but we really don't have the extra money for the membership every month.

After our annual mom's night out Christmas dinner with my playgroup moms, we started talking about how miserable we all were with our current bodies. One of the girls said she loved the idea of running and how when ever you saw someone doing it, it just looked so peaceful. After much discussion on the topic we decided to start a walking/running group and plan to run our first 5K in May. We did some research and decided to go with the Couch to 5K program. It in cooperates walking and running in different time increments with more walking than running to start with, ever week you run more and walk less. You do this 3 times a week and in 9 weeks you should be running for a solid 30 minutes.

We braved the 20 degree weather for our first meeting on Monday. Rex kept telling me I was crazy but I knew I had to start or I would find another excuse why not to start! I was the slow, fat girl in the back. (I can say this about myself because it's the truth!:)) Man, I didn't really realize how bad out of shape I was, I didn't think I could make it but I did! I survived! That is an accomplishment all on it's own. I have never, ever been a runner!! I love to walk and do aerobics but run, ha!

I started back on a combination of Weight Watchers and Thrive this week. I am counting my points but still doing a low carb version of it. My body does really respond better to the whole low carb, high protein, land lots of fibrous veggies combo. I do want to loose at least 80 pounds but I really just want to be healthy. I don't want to be miserable anymore and I really want to be a mom and wife my kids and husband can be proud of. I know it's going to take a lot of hard work and patience but I will do it this year. I know my friends and I can do this together! We will accomplish this to be able to run our first marathon together!!! Keep me in your prayers because I have the world's worst will power! I know God will give me the strength to make my body the living temple it should be, healthy and strong!

Goodbye 2009

2009-12-31T10:04:00.000-08:00

Another year gone! Not only are we saying goodbye to another year but another decade as well. Ten years, it seems like such a long period of time but it really does go by in a flash! What has this decade brought me? It's brought me many, many firsts. What happened to me over the last 10 years? A lot!

I got married, moved out of my parents house into my own house, worked, got pregnant, became a mom, became a stay at home mom, went through all the trials of being a first time parent, started a couple of businesses from my home, had another baby, made many new and meaningful friendships, spent lots of time with my family, went on vacation every summer, went to Disney World for the first time with my babies, made some major mistakes, had several melt downs, lots of arguments, became an aunt, a sister in law, a daughter in law, lost some dear friends and loved ones, and have become closer to my heavenly father. Oh, you know the list could go on and on but those are some of the highs and lows for me.

What will this next decade bring me? Who knows? I know I will become a parent a of a school aged child, maybe become a mother again (I hope so), do many sports things with my growing boys, go back to school myself, go back to work outside the home, spend much more time with my heavenly Father through His Word and in prayer, spend more time with family and friends, and hopefully have the same friends and family around me 10 years from now.

Ten years seems like such a short amount of time in retrospect and time brings with numerous ups and downs. What has the last decade brought to you? I hope you have experienced more highs than lows. I hope you have grown personally and spiritually, isn't that what life is about anyway? I plan to keep working on myself and trying to get things right. The Lord knows I can't do it alone but I can do whatever He has planned for me. So that is all I desire for the upcoming year and the next 10 years, to do His will and to keep working on becoming the best me I can be for His glory!

Happy 2010! Enjoy your new year and a new decade. I sure plan to!