The Green House

Goodbye Tonsils!

2011-08-10T09:50:00.000-07:00

In April, Kenadi had to have her tonsils taken out.

These are not great pics about a not fun time, but I figured we would want it captured for later in life.

Kennadi had been having trouble with her breathing at night. It had gotten really bad and the doctor wanted the tonsils and adenoids out right away.

She was very nervous before surgery and wasn't a very happy camper.

She did not like the itchy, clown gown.

Surgery went well, but she woke up in a lot of pain. This was hard for me to see, but I knew the surgery was the best thing for her.

She did really well with recovery and now sleeps so good!

She was a very brave girl!

The doctor let us know that the tonsils and adenoids were extremely large. He said the anesthesiologist even commented right as they put her to sleep about how much they were obstructing her airway. I am so glad we got them out when we did.

Easter 2011

2011-06-26T19:04:00.001-07:00

This Easter was very fun and memorable for me. The girls have gotten old enough now to really enjoy projects. We decided to make some Easter goodies. We bought lots of ingredients and spent an entire afternoon in the kitchen baking. We had a lot of fun and made LOTS of goodies! The girls want to make this a new Easter tradition.

I think they turned out cute!

Easter morning the girls woke up to their Easter surprises.

We went to church at Geyer Springs for Easter service. We then went down to Nenaw and Pappy's for Easter lunch and egg hunting.

Pappaw Prince came as well as Mammaw Nancy.

Brad, Courtney and the boys came as well.

We had a great day and great weather.

Princess On Ice

2011-04-22T19:46:00.000-07:00

This week we attended our annual Disney: Princess on Ice. We are so thankful that we get to take advantage of the special school performances that Disney puts on thanks to Lots O' Tots. This time I did not take Halle. She is getting older now and it is hard to take her out of school. She was not real happy with not getting to go, but she understood.

Kennadi got to enjoy an outing alone today. I think she really had a great day! We were right on the ice. We even got hit with the ice shavings that flew off their skates!

As time flys by so fast, I am really trying to learn to slow down and just "be in the moment" with the girls. This was one of those days that I reminded myself to soak up the moment and all its memories. It was a great day!

Kennadi turns Four (7 months ago)

2011-04-15T10:13:00.001-07:00

Okay, I am really feeling like a horrible mommy right now! I was looking up some of Kennadi's 4th birthday pictures for a friend. I realized that I had never blogged her birthday. Her birthday was in September, but I guess it is a little late than never, right? Hopefully Kennadi will forgive me for getting this so out of order! For her 4th birthday, Kennadi requested a Dora Birthday! We had a lot of fun planning this together. We made it bright and festive. She had lots of friends and family. They all had a blast!

March Madness

2011-04-03T16:54:00.000-07:00

This month has brought about changes in the Green household. At the beginning of the month, Halle got her braces. This really changed her look. Now I think she looks so much older. She is doing well with them.

Doesn't she look like a pre-teen? Scary!

I took Halle to visit Morgan the other night. The two of them had been wanting to get together for a while. With Morgan's illness, things don't always work out, so it has taken a while to get them together. I loved the way they were playing ball together in the yard. Very cute!

Having a little fun with Morgan's bald head. Too cute!

Kennadi at her first softball practice. I think she is a natural!

Halle at Salem's talent show.

Spring Break bowling trip with Kennadi. (Halle had stayed the night with friends).

She had a blast!

We finally got new flooring! We needed it so bad.

Halle's New Room

2011-03-04T18:54:00.001-08:00

Halle has been wanting to paint her room ever since we moved in. We finally got around to picking out a color and getting started on it. Halle got to help paint and was very excited about that. Brant and I went out shopping one night while the girls were at Nenaw and Pappy's. We bought decor to go in the room, came home and put it all together to surprise her when she came home. She was surprised and we think it turned out relly good!

Snow Days!

2011-03-04T18:32:00.000-08:00

This year we were blessed by beautiful blankets of white snow twice. While it did cause our lives to be put on hold more than we might have liked, it was very beautiful to look at, and was more snow than either of my girls have seen in their lifetime. They had a great time watching it snow, pretending to be inside of a beautiful snowglobe, and building a snowman and igloo. The snow days were great memories we made that I hope the girls will remember forever.

It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2011-01-04T17:09:00.001-08:00

I can't believe another holiday season has come and gone. It has been a very busy, but great couple of months. I have really enjoyed the holidays this year with the girls. It was very exciting for Kennadi. She sand Christmas carols all day every day. I also loved having Christmas in our new house. We decorated the house with lights and had a Grisswold moment in the front yard the very first time we lit them up!

I am so thankful for my husband and girls. I am so thankful for my Saviour who came as a tiny baby to the world to save me. I feel very blessed to have had a wonderful holiday season. Now I will take a glance back at some of the highlights of the month.

Taking snap shots for our Christmas cards.

Kennadi struck a pose!

Halle's Christmas program at school.

Some of Halle's classmates.

"It's a Wonder-full Life"

Christmas program at church.

Halle's school Christmas party.

Christmas Eve:

Early present - snowglobes.

Halle and Brady reading the Christmas story.

Setting out goodies for Santa.

Christmas Morning:

Merry Christmas!!!!!

When Your Smilin'

2010-10-31T19:41:00.001-07:00

This month Halle began her "Phase One" of orthodontic work. Yes that's right, I said "Phase One." For several years now we have known Halle needed to have work done in order to make room in her tiny little mouth. Every dentist or orthodontist that has ever seen her has just been amazed at how tiny her mouth really is. We had to wait until she lost several teeth before the work could begin.

The past three weeks she has been going to the orthodontist getting ready for her big appointment that was this past Thursday. She had an expander put it. She will go back in eight weeks to have it checked, followed by another eight weeks. Then she will have her first set of braces put on-probably sometime in March.

Her mouth has been really sore and it has been a tough couple of days for her. But, she is adjusting and doing better. We know this is the right thing for her, but it is hard to watch her have to go through all of it.

They did give her a SonicCare toothbrush that she loves very much. I told her this would all be worth it someday when she has a beautiful smile!

Weekend Getaway

2010-10-31T19:25:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago, Brant and I decided to take a little trip up to a cabin on Beaver Lake. It is just outside of Eureka Springs. It is soooo beautiful there! We had a great time just relaxing and enjoying quietness. We think we need to make it a yearly tradition to go somewhere together every October.

This was our view from our cabin. It was absolutely breathtaking!

The rocking chair that broke while we were feeding the racoons. This is a rather funny story, even though Brant ended up with a large knot on the back of his head and I ended up with bruises. If you are curious about what happened, ask me!

The racoons were too cute! But, I wasn't about to let them eat out of my hand.

Salem Tigers

2010-10-28T15:41:00.000-07:00

This year Halle began 3rd grade at a new school. Since we moved this summer, we are now in the Bryant School District. Halle is now attending Salem Elementary. She is adjusting just fine, even got straight A's this first nine weeks. She has made lots of friends and is having lots of fun.

First Day of School.

Literacy Night at Salem.

Limo Ride for fundraising.

Fall Carnival.

Fall Carnival and funnel cake...Yummy!

The Summer Wrap-Up

2010-08-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

I can't believe the summer has already come to an end and school is back in session. We were so busy this summer moving, working, playing. I decided to do a post compiled of all the fun we had this summer.

Not too shortly after moving, we went to church camp. This is one of the girls' most favorite things to do. They look forward to it all year and immediately begin waiting to go back as soon as we come home. This year was no different. We all had such a good time. We shared many laughs and lots of memories. I'm so glad to get to experience this with my girls each summer.

We spent a lot of time this summer swimming. The girls really enjoy it. Halle has gotten so good, she now swims like a fish! It is hard to believe she was once scared of the water.

We didn't really go on a vacaction this year, so we decided to do some small things around here instead. We took the girls to Pinnacle Mountain and the Museum of Discovery. They had a lot of fun doing things that our own surrounding cities have to offer.

Halle's 8th Birthday

2010-07-08T20:29:00.001-07:00

I can't believe my baby turned 8!!!!!! It breaks my heart to realize just how fast time is going by. We have been so totally overwhelmed with moving, that her birthday snuck up on us. We decided to have a swimming party (literally the week before). So, I quickly got together invites and we set out planning her party in fast-speed. It turned out great and the kids had a blast!

I made cupcakes made in ice cream cones.

Present time!

She got the new Halle Berry perfume. It says Halle on the bottle.

Pretty cool, I thought.

My little superstar!

Six Months in Review

2010-06-04T23:00:00.000-07:00

January & February 2010:

With January brought in a new year with a lot of changes to come for the Green House. We put our house on the market in January.

We did get a little snow to play in. It was not much, but the girls had fun anyway.This picture is bittersweet b/c it is the last snow at the old house.
Emma's 5th birthday at Pinkabella.
Halle's Valentine's Day party at school.

Girl Scout cookie sales at Books-A-Million.

March 2010:

My cousin Kori (on right) and I gave my cousin Kirbi a baby shower to celebrate the soon-to-be arriving baby Gavin.

A trip with the Children's Ministry to Chuck E. Cheese over spring break.

We also took the girls to Branson for spring break. We spent a few days there shopping, sightseeing, and attending The Dixie Stampede.

The girls loved this trip to the Butterfly Palace while in Branson.

At the end of the spring break week, Kari and I took Halle and Emma on a trip to Memphis for Greyson's 2nd birthday.
We surprised by Brittany by showing up at the party. She had no idea we were coming. We had a great weekend with her.

The girls trip to the Pediatric Dentist.

This was Kennadi's first trip to the dentist. She did good!

April 2010:

Easter 2010

Halle's field trip to the bowling alley and Hollywood Park.

The Little Rock Zoo.

Halle's awards assembly at Lakeside. She took home the top reader award for her class. I was very proud of her!

Halle's last day of school party. She took some time to say goodbye to her friends since she will be going to a new school next year.

Now that school is finally out and we are moved, it is time to relax and enjoy the summer.

The girls have adjusted well to our new house. They are especially enjoying the pool!

We are looking forward to a great summer!

UNDER CONSTRUCTION!!!!!

2010-06-04T22:50:00.000-07:00

Okay, I am so ashamed of myself for letting my blog just fall by the wayside for six months. But, it has been a hectic six months with selling and buying a house.....not to mention moving twice! Now that we have DSL (yeah!), it will make it so much easier/quicker for me to update this blog. So, I am going to hopefully post a long six-month in review post within the next week to catch this thing up!
Then, hopefully I will do a better job of updating.

The Christmas 2009 Wrap-Up

2010-01-01T11:25:00.000-08:00

Well, I am finally getting around to posting some of our Christmas activities over the last month. Where did Christmas go? It all happened so fast and we were so busy during the month of December. But, the kids had a GREAT Christmas. We had lots of fun times and many memories were made.

Here is our Christmas 2009 wrap-up.

Halle had her class Christmas party.

The kids and Mrs. O'Sheilds sang a Christmas carol at the beginning of the party.

They all made a Christmas frame and had a picture of themselves to put in it.

As you can see, Halle is concentrating very hard on her project.

We celebrated Christmas with my Mammaw Nancy at my cousin Kirbi's house.
She is expecting her first baby and we just found out it is boy!

Halle and Kennadi with Mammaw Nancy.

Christmas with my Mammaw Nancy at my cousin Kirbi's house.

I got new perfume!

Brant got Band Hero. He was very excited.

Christmas Eve at Neenaw's house.

The whole gang with Neenaw.

Cookies for Santa.

Halle's letter to Santa.

Santa's letter to the girls.

Christmas morning.

Halle got a monogrammed duffel bag to take to sleepovers.

I had to throw this pic in of Kennadi opening presents in her new bike helmet.

The girls got a Wii from us. We have all actually enjoyed playing it.

Halle bought Kennadi a Christmas present with all her "Sparky bucks" from church. Sparky bucks are play money they earn from reciting verses and doing projects etc... They get to go to the Sparky store about twice a semester. Halle went right before the Christmas break and decided to spend her money on a present for Kennadi. It was a Dora dry erase board. I was so proud of her for thinking of someone else during the season. Kennadi loved the present.

Nothing like Christmas sisterly love. It is few and far between, so I must post it when I catch it.

Santa went a little overboard on their stocking stuffers. It actually would not all fit inside the stockings. They loved going through them.

This was our belated Christmas we had with Paul and Wanda. We always get together for a meal and presents sometime right after the Christmas holiday. The girls all got glittery boots. They were excited to all have boots alike - especially Kennadi.

This concludes the Green's 2009 Christmas wrap-up. We enjoyed a very blessed holiday season. I can't believe it has already come and gone. Sadly we say goodbye to Christmas 2009. I look forward to next year, but at the same time it makes me sad b/c it will mean my girls are yet another year older.

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas as well.

An Non-Traditional Thanksgiving

2009-11-28T19:51:00.000-08:00

This year we decided to do something a little different this year for Thanksgiving. We took the girls on a min-trip to Texarkana. We went and stayed at a hotel with an indoor swimming pool. The girls love to swim and this gave them an opportunity to swim while mommy did some Black Friday shopping.

We had a nice, relaxing, drama-free time.

We had celebrated traditional Thanksgiving at home earlier in the week, so we took the girls to eat at Cracker Barrel on Thanksgiving Day.

The hotel we stayed in had a huge indoor pool. The girls had such a good time swimming.

Doesn't this pic say "exciting"!

Happy Thanksgiving!

My, umm... I Mean, Halle's School Project

2009-11-23T11:26:00.000-08:00

Halle had an assignment last week to design a clothespin into a person from her ancestry or indian or pilgrim. Since we have indian in our family on both sides, we decided to make an indian girl.

I had so much fun designing this girl that I almost forgot to include Halle in the project! Anyway, I thought it turned out cute and Halle loved it!

Field Trip to the Pumpkin Patch

2009-11-23T07:11:00.000-08:00

This year, Halle's grade planned a day at the Pumpkin Patch for their field trip. We were suppose to go the week before Halloween, but due to rain it was postponed.

We went 2 weeks ago to Garner Family Farms in Hot Springs. It turned out to be a gorgeous day, and the kids had a lot of fun.

When we arrived, the teachers all divided the kids up among the adult help that was there. I was in charge of Halle and 2 other little girls in the class. We pretty much got to go at our own pace and let the girls play where they wanted to .

We all gathered back together for a hayride and lunch.

This is a pic of the girls at the petting zoo.

They had a little playground area with tire swings. Halle had fun swinging on the tire swing. She was the only one who didn't need help getting on. I think it is her long legs!

At the end of the trip, they gave the parents little gold nuggets to go and throw in the creek. Then, the kids came and got to pan for gold. They had a blast doing this - even though they were soaked when they were through.

Halloween 2009

2009-11-23T06:51:00.000-08:00

It is terrible that I am just now posting our Halloween pics from this year. We have been crazy-busy! I am working more now and I do not have a lot of free time.

Our Halloween was fun. Halle was RagedayAnn and Kennadi was Dora the Explorer. I now some of you saw her pics. She was hilarious in that wig. It came with the costume, but I didn't think it quite looked like Dora. It more resembled a hooker wig to me! Everyone thought it was a riot! I can't believe she actually kept it on the whole night. That thing was heavy!

We went to our church for Trunk or Treat. The girls had a fun night.

Love and Marriage - And a Flower Girl

2009-10-24T18:56:00.000-07:00

Our good friend Sara got married. Kennadi has been Ms. Sara's "princess" for a long time. Sara has always loved my girls and taken such good care of them. The girls were both very excited to be a part of her special day.

Rehearsal was so cold, especially down by the water. The kids were freezing. We wrapped Kennadi up in a blanket. This is a cute pic of Sara with Kennadi in her blanket.

At rehearsal, I filled the basket with leaves for Kennadi to practice with.

his is Kennadi practicing walking down the "pile" as she called it.

We rolled Kennadi's hair in sponge rollers.

This is a pic of her in her rollers while playing in her "boat."

We arrived at the wedding a couple of hours early for picture taking.

Mikayla, Kristie, and Halle were the program/bubble girls. They did a great job as well.

Sara is a true cowgirl at heart. She wore her boots under her dress as her something old.

Taking a break from her flower girl duties for a photo opt.

The setting was beautiful. Kennadi is admiring her purse/basket with the petals.

She thinks it is so lovely!

Finally, we are ready to go. Sara and Kennadi walk out hand-in-hand.

Getting ready to walk down the aisle.

She was a little nervous in the beginning.

But, she walked down the aisle like a pro!

It was gorgeous day.

I am so happy for Ryan and Sara. I hope they have a long and happy life together.

Pawpaw Prince's 80th Birthday Bash

2009-10-10T16:42:00.000-07:00

My Pawpaw, whom I love so dearly, turned 80 on October 4th. Some of you know that Kennadi is actually named after him. His name is Kenneth Dean. He is very special to me as well as my entire family. We decided to plan a surprise party for him this year. Our family lives in several areas, so it took some time and planning to get everyone in one place at one time. My cousin Ryan and his wife came from Wisconsin, Kyle and his wife came from Florida, Cole and his wife came from Jonesboro, and my Aunt and Uncle came from Judsonia.

We all meet together shortly before the party and had a photo taken of all of us together. This is also going to be a surprise present for him and my grandma when we get it finished and framed.

He was so happy to see everyone there. He prayed a blessing before we ate thanking God that he has given him and my Mammaw the time to where they could see their whole family again. This was extremely hard for us, because my grandmother is in very bad health, and my grandpa suffers from diabetes and heart problems. We know their time is short, but we too are thankful for the time that God gives us with them. We do not take it for granted.

Here, my Pawpaw meets Ryan's daughter, Ella, for the very first time.
This is Uncle Cole with Cooper.

Some of the Prince men standing around talking.

Cooper with Uncle Kyle.

Everyone had a great time, laughing and talking about old times.

Pawpaw and his boys.

My cousin, Kyle, is always making someone laugh.

Too cute!

We had a great time and I am so thankful that we were able to have this wonderful day with our Pawpaw. We love him so much. He is such a precious man.

Playhouse Disney Live!

2009-09-26T08:13:00.000-07:00

I took Kennadi to see Playhouse Disney Live last night. She has been looking forward to this show for several months. This was the first time she has gone to a show without Halle. I felt guilty about not taking Halle, but I thought it was a good thing to take Kennadi by herself. Halle stayed with Brant. They rented a movie, got pizza, and played games. She had a fun night too and was very gracious about staying home.

Let the show begin! And, no my mom did not coordinate her purse with Kennadi's outfit.

But, it worked out well.

The suspense is incredible!

Tigger and Pooh.

The Little Einsteins.

Handy Many.

Having fun at Playhouse Disney!

Doing the hot dog dance!

Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.

"Hot dog, hot dog, hot digity dog!"

It was a great musical party! Kennadi said, "It was a great day!"

Lady Kennadi's 3rd Birthday Party

2009-09-12T13:50:00.000-07:00

Today was the day....my baby turned 3!

She was so excited, I was in disbelief that it has already been 3 years.

The theme this year was Ladybugs. She had originally said she wanted a "bug" party. We settled on a ladybug party. She was good with that.

Her cake turned out cuter than I even expected. Ambrosia Bakery did it.
Nenaw and Kennadi pose for a pic.

Swimming - such fun!

She didn't quite know how to act while everyone was singing to her.

Blowing out the candles.

Present time!

It was a great time! She had a lot of friends and family who came.
I think she had a great day!

Labor Day Fun

2009-09-07T16:39:00.000-07:00

We spent this Labor Day doing things around the house that needed to be done.

This afternoon we took the girls to the Entergy Park in Hot Springs. They had a lot of fun just being outside and enjoying the day.

Halle was so proud of herself that she was able to climb all the way to the top.
The park also has nice paved walking trails. We enjoyed a nice walk through one.

Overlooking Lake Hamilton.

This is the toddler playground that Kennadi is so proudly playing on.

Peek-a-boo!

Kennadi climbing the rock steps to the top.

A first for my girls was a visit from the ice cream man. I used to love the ice cream man as a child. But my poor children being from the country have never experienced this.

It was a perfect afternoon for an ice cream treat.

This was a great day to spend our Labor Day, just some quality family time. I hope everyone elso enjoyed their day off.

Razorback Watch Party

2009-09-07T10:03:00.001-07:00

This year we opted out of going to the Razorback game. We decided to rent it on PPV and have a "watch" party with some friends. The girls dressed in their Razorback outfits and were all ready to party.

Isn't this a cute idea? A friend of mine brought fruit skewers to the party. It was a big hit with everyone, including the kids.

We had a bountiful spread of food at the party. No one went hungry.

Some of the kids decided to have their own party out on the porch with Miley Cyrus rockin' on the CD player. Thank goodness we do not have neighbors!

It was a fun party, especially since the Razorback's kicked booty!

Woooo Pig Soooie!

A Little Performer

2009-09-07T09:12:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday, Children's Chapel at church sang a song. Kennadi was so excited to sing in front of everyone. I told her that when she sang, I would take her picture. So they all came to the front to sing. Kennadi looked straight at me and said, loudly, "Take my picture!"

Meet the Newest Member of the Green Family

2009-09-07T08:52:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we adopted a little kitty named Al from the Paws and Claws organization. Halle has been wanting a kitty for a while, so we decided to let her have one. He is really sweet and gets along with Emmi really well.

We already love him like another member of the family.

First Day of Second Grade

2009-08-21T09:33:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it is already time for school to start! Where did the summer go? Halle was very anxious about starting 2nd grade. She is in a new building this year and was not able to meet her teacher until the first day of school.

There were a few tears shed, but she did have a great day. When I picked her up, she was all smiles!

Getting Halle up in the mornings is the most difficult of the day. She LOVES to sleep in. She is like her mommy in that way. She always tells me, "I'm up, I'm stretching." - even though I see no movement. It is so tough to get her going in the mornings.

She poses for a classic "porch" photo op before heading out to school.

I love this pic b/c it shows Kennadi looking up at Halle. She wants to be JUST LIKE her sister. She knows she is turning 3 soon and thinks she gets to go to Kindergarten when she is 3. Everyday since school has started school, Kennadi has insisted on carrying a lunchbox and backpack too.

This is the backpack we had her name put on. Mollie did a great job on it and Halle just loves it.

She ended up getting in the same class this year as two of her friends from her class last year. We were both relieved to find that she would have some familiar faces in her classroom.

I snapped a pic of Brady before I left the school on the first day too. I think he was excited to start a new school year too.

Beach Pics

2009-08-13T19:03:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know beach pics are kinda' cheesy (right Britt?), but you can't go to the beach without taking some. My idea was to just take some of the girls, but mom insisted we all take some. Brant and I really didn't bring clothes to take pics in, so improvised.

I can't believe how high he threw her!

This is a pic of a storm that rolled in on Wed evening. I couldn't believe how dark and big the clouds looked from our balcony. The clouds and ocean almost meet!

Florida Days

2009-08-12T12:27:00.001-07:00

Our vacation is continuing right along. The weather is beautiful and we are relaxing. Yesterday we spent the day between the pool and the beach. Kennadi finally got in all by herself with her floaties. She had a blast! She even started jumping in off the side.

This is a picture we took before we went out to dinner on Tuesday night. I don't know why we look red b/c we are not burnt. We have been using our sunscreen religiously!

This morning we got to do something really special. We went to the US Naval Museum where the Blue Angels practice. We got to watch them practice followed by an autograph signing in the museum. It was very interesting!

The Blue Angels are trained to fly as close as 18 inches apart!

At the end of the practice, they let all the kids come on to the runway and wave flags as the Blue Angels taxied by. The entire crowd (which was about 3,000) stood and applauded. It was very patriotic.

This is Halle with one of the Blue Angels. How awesome is it that there is a woman on the team?We thought it was pretty cool! To top it off, you should have seen the ROCK she had on her finger. Not a bad life she is leading.

Kennadi is striking a pose in a helicopter rescue basket.

The stairs that took you to the second level of the museum were actual airplane steps.

We are posing in front of actual Blue Angel planes hanging from the museum ceiling!

Florida or Bust!!!!

2009-08-11T06:52:00.000-07:00

Well, Saturday was finally the day that we had been waiting for all summer long. We loaded up and left town about 5 a.m. The girls were very excited and could not wait to see the beach.

Since my parents were going to, we decided that it would be a good idea to split the girls up and let one ride with my mom and dad to cut down on the whinning and fighting. This proved to be an excellent idea. Both the girls did great on the long car ride.

This was the first morning in Flordia. What a better way to wake up than overlooking the ocean. The girls had breakfast on the balcony, then it was time to get dressed and race down to the beach!

Feeding the seagulls is always a fun source of entertainment while playing on the beach.

This is our condo in the background. We stayed on the 6th floor.

Kennadi had put on her own bathingsuit. As you can see, she put it on backwards!

On Monday, we traded in the beach for a while and went to the Tanger Outlet in Foley, AL. It was a monstrosity, a little overwhelming. But I was happy b/c they had a Gap Kids Outlet and a Gymboree Outlet! Yeah!!!!

A little crab hunting after dark is always fun. The girls were ready with nets in hand. Although they quickly handed over their nets to the guys once the crabs made their appearance.

This was our little set-up we had. We put up our canopy and left it so we would have it everyday. There was hardly no one on the beach. It was a great time to be there.

We also enjoyed some pool time as well. It felt good after the sandy, salty beach.

This ended the first couple of days of our beach vacation. Stay tuned for the rest of the trip!

Bogg Springs 2009

2009-08-05T18:26:00.000-07:00

We just got back from another fabulous year at church camp. This is the camp that I have been attending since I was about 2 years old. It is like a second home to me. Some of my best friends in the whole world run the camp. Halle has been attending since she was two and Kennadi has been going literally since she was in the womb!

This was the morning we left the church.

Kennadi was so excited to get loaded up and leave for camp!

This is a classic camp picture. The girls posing for a pic while playing on a bunk bed. Fun times!

Church camp wouldn't be complete without a hair-do session. Kennadi loved giving Neenaw a new look with some bows.

It rained a lot while we were at camp. It worked out good for Kennadi because she is all about her rainboots and umbrella. She had a blast!

The girls, striking a pose!

This was a funny game to watch. They wet and soaped down a slip-n-slide that they had to slide down then......

They had to turn round and round on this bat then......

Run back up the slip-n-slide. As you can see, Halle was very dizzy.

Kennadi participating in the preschool recreation time. Don't you love the shades?

Halle and Kristie playing on one of the water slides.

These are some of our campers waiting on church to start. We attended services twice a day. Once in the mornings and then again at night. I got lucky and Kennadi slept during every service.

The girls were so happy when their daddy joined us at camp mid-week.

Halle, participating in tug-of-war on a very mudy day.

Kennadi and her pal Tyler.

Brant and Kennadi playing a little mini golf.

This is Kennadi on the last morning. I had packed everything else up and was waiting on her to wake up so I could pack my bedding. I finally had to start taking the sheets off with her in them.

We had a great week, but we were all glad to be home too. We all missed Emmi a lot and I know she missed us as well. So, until next year, we said goodbye to camp.

Trampoline Fun?

2009-07-05T19:14:00.000-07:00

Tonight after we had finished unloading the camper and washing all the laundry, we decided to go outside and mow the yard. The girls had already had their bath and were in their pjs. I decided to let them go out and ride their bikes on the concrete. Before I knew it, they were on the trampoline having the time of their life. I had to snap a few pics of the after effects of the trampoline fun. Needless to say, they had to get another bath!

Fourth of July Camping Trip

2009-07-05T18:15:00.000-07:00

This year we spend the 4th at Petit Jean Mountain. This was the first time we have been there. We had so much fun. It is absolutely beautiful there! My mom and dad came up on Saturday to celebrate the 4th with us. We all had a nice time.

The girls posing for a pic just before leaving the house.

Relaxing with a popsicle. Oh, the life!

Standing by the lookover at Mather Lodge. This is where we ate dinner the first night.
Kennadi proudly waves her flag to celebrate the 4th.

This is a bike parade they have every year. People gather at the visitor's center and decorate their bikes in red, white and blue. They then bike through all the campgrounds. Halle really wanted to be a part of it, but we decided to watch this year. Maybe we will try it next year.

The girls had so much fun riding their bikes at the campground.

A little water balloon fun.

We took the girls on a small hike called The Rock House Cave.

The Rock House Cave.

This is Stout's Point. It has the most breath taking views.

This is where we waited to see the fireworks, that is until it started raining. (That is a whole other story that is really quite amusing. If you are curious, ask me!)

This was a great Fourth of July.

We made a lot of wonderful memories and are hoping to make this a yearly tradition.

Horseback Riding

2009-07-05T18:00:00.000-07:00

Halle and her love for horses. Honestly, I don't know where she gets it from - not from me I can assure you. We have a friend at church who rides and has several horses. She has taken Halle riding before and promised to take her trail riding. This past week we all loaded up and headed to her house for some trail riding. Halle absolutely loved it! She did not want to quit. We all enjoyed riding (although I was sore for 2 days).

Even Kennadi got in on some of the fun. She enjoyed the trail ride too.

Halle's 7th Birthday

2009-07-05T17:27:00.000-07:00

Seven years already! I can hardly believe. First, I can't believe my "baby" is already 7 and second, I can't believe I am old enough to have a 7 year old! Where has the time gone?

This year, Halle decided to have an all-girl princess party at Pinkabella in the Hot Springs Mall. She was very excited and it turned out really cute. The girls had a lot of fun.

I just have a few pics of the party that I took at the beginning. Kari was gracious enough to take pics for me with her camera. I didn't have to worry about getting all the cute shots b/c I knew she would. She will be editing and posting them on her blog soon. I can't wait to see them. Thanks again, Kari! She is so talented. If you are looking to have some pics done, she is your girl! Check out her blog at wrightimagephotography.blogspot.com

The girls anxiously awaiting the party fun!

The girls dressing in their princess attire.

Kennadi not sure what all this stuff is about.

The princesses getting their hair/makeup done.

Halle, striking a pose in front of her royal table.

Even princesses need to relax!

Birthday girl - Princess Halle. It was such a great night for her.

Camping Trip

2009-06-14T13:37:00.000-07:00

This weekend we took the girls for a weekend camping trip to Lake DeGray. The weather cooperated (until the middle of the night Sat night) and we had a great time.

The girls had a good time playing at the playground.
Cheese!

The sand was almost too much for Kennadi. She is not about some dirt!

Here you can see her wiping the sand off of her hands.

Now Halle is burying daddy's feet in the sand as Kennadi watches from a distance out of the sands reach.

It isn't considered "roughing it" without a hammock, tinkerbell pillow, and a good gossip magazine to read. Ahhhh - this is the life!

The girls suited up to head down to the lake for a swim.

Again, not all about the sand. "It's dirty!"

The girls sitting still for a moment for a photo. My 3 girls - so cute!

"Good-bye Lake DeGray! She you next time."

The End. :)

Magic Springs

2009-06-14T13:01:00.000-07:00

This year we decided to get season passes to Magic Springs/Crystal Falls. We took the girls a few weekends ago to the Magic Springs part. They had a good time - even though 1/2 of the rides weren't working b/c the park had to order parts. (I'm still wondering why they didn't think to order the parts this winter?)

Here they are watching "The Hawk". This is a ride that goes completely upside down. Kennadi kept saying, "I don't want to ride that!"

Kennadi's favorite ride - the carousel.

Halle, braving the kiddie version of Dr. Dean's Rocket Machine.

Anyway, Halle said "This isn't like Disney World." I was like, "A, no honey. Not even close!" :)

End of the Year Awards Ceremony

2009-06-14T12:51:00.000-07:00

On the last day of school, Halle received a medal for having honor roll all year long. She was really proud. She worked hard all year long. This year they were introducing math into things. They did addition and subtraction. Every Friday they would do "Fact in a Flash" tests. These tests were 3min timed tests. They had to complete 30 math problems in 3 min. When they first started these I thought, "this is way to hard for them!" But Halle worked really hard and ended up with a 96% in this course. I was really proud of her.

Gettin' Down With Momma Goose

2009-05-19T18:40:00.000-07:00

Tonight Halle had her 1st grade musical entitled "Gettin' Down with Momma Goose." All the kids dressed as different nursery rhyme characters. Halle was Little Bo Peep. I know I am partial, but she looked adorable!

Little Bo Peep and Little Miss Muffet
Little Bo Peep and a Queen.

This picture is hard to see, but Halle is playing a musical instrument. The children played the music for all of the songs except two. Pretty impressive!

This is 1/2 of the 1st grade class. The other 1/2 will perform on Thursday night.

Dad's Ordination Service

2009-05-19T18:29:00.002-07:00

My dad was ordained as a deacon this past Sunday morning. Brant and I had already scheduled our trip when they set the date for the ordination service. We decided to come back a little early and surprise my dad for his ordination. It was a really neat service. I am so proud of my dad and the other 2 men that were ordained. They will do a great service for the Lord.

My dad is giving his testimony while my mom stands by for moral support.

The men were honored by giving a Bible.

This is the "laying on of the hands". It is a process where the other deacons and pastors come by individually and say a prayer over each man. It is a very touching process to watch.

Anniversary Trip

2009-05-19T18:00:00.000-07:00

Brant and I left last Thursday for a much-needed getaway. We were celebrating our 10th Anniversary a little early. It is so hard to believe that we will have been married 10 years this Friday. I certainly do not feel old enough to have been married that long.

We took our camper to Mountain View. We stayed at a beautiful/quiet place near the White River. We love our little home away from home and we feel so fortunate that we have it. We bought it from my aunt and uncle who used it on the mission field. They are really special to me and that makes the camper even that more special. We have already created so many great memories in it. The girls absolutely love camping and were jealous that we were going without them this time.
This was the view we had from our camper. This is Sylamore Creek that runs directly into the White River just about 300 yards from this pic. I just loved the way the rocks looked up the mountain.

We visited Blanchard Springs Caverns on Friday. We took a 1 hour tour called the Dripstone Tour. We really enjoyed it - very interesting. I have been there before, but it was when I was young. We want to go back and take the girls.

Getting Stronger!

2009-05-05T19:18:00.000-07:00

Brant and I recently started a diet program at our church. We have been working really hard. Along with the dieting has come a lot of exercising. We are enjoying becoming more healthy, but I think we are beginning to rub off on Kennadi. She will now get in the floor and exercise with us. It is so cute to watch!

These are her sit-ups.

This is her version of a push-up.

We are not sure what this exercise is - a butt lift maybe?

Swimming Lessons

2009-05-05T18:58:00.000-07:00

Halle started swimming lessons this past week at the YMCA in Hot Springs. She has never taken formal lessons before. She knows how to "doggy paddle", but that is about it. So far she is really enjoying it. She is working so hard at it. She wants to learn so bad.

Track and Field Day

2009-05-05T17:49:00.000-07:00

Today was Halle's Track and Field Day at school. We were lucky that the rain held off for it. Brant and I both went with her and she had a fabulous day. She was got lots of ribbons and was very proud of herself.

What field day would be complete without the sack race?

This was the softball throw. She did well at this event too.

The scooter race.

Halle in the "cone" race.

Break time! The girls sure were glad I brought this beach towel. Heaven forbid they get dirty!

The long jump. My baby took 2nd place in this event. She may be the shortest in her class, but her long legs come in handy.

This was called the kangaroo race. They had to hop holding teddy bears between their knees.

Disney On Ice

2009-04-25T19:07:00.000-07:00

Friday Halle got to skip school and I took the girls to see Disney On Ice. They were so excited to go. When they woke up that morning, I made them Mickey Mouse pancakes. Then they dressed in their Mickey attire, gathered their Mickey gear, and we hit the road.

A quick photo with Emmi, of course, before we left. They couldn't wait to head for the show!

We took these Mickey and Minnie dolls as well as a tinker bell light/spinning toy to remind us that we didn't need to purchase any of the tempting toys at the show b/c we already had some. It worked really well. They did not ask for one thing, which is very unusual - especially for Halle.

The show was entertaining, as it always is. We say "The Lion King", "The Little Mermaid", "Lilo and Stitch", and "Peter Pan."

Outside of Disney World, this was the first live show Kennadi had ever been to. She really soaked it all in. She would wave at the characters as they skated by. Once, Tinkerbell skated by and Kennadi waved. She looked at me and said, "Her won't wave at me!"

Ariel and her "Prince Charming"

Mickey, Minnie, and Daisy sporting their safari wear.

Timone and Pumba.

A little intermission smile :)

The grand finale with no other than Ms. Tinkerbell herself.

We had a great time with all of my dear friends and there kids. I think all the kids were mesmerized the entire time (even baby Grant).

This kind of resembles a police line up - don't you think? I kind of wanted to look at them and say, "Okay now, everyone turn to the right!"

Easter Sunday 2009

2009-04-12T15:09:00.000-07:00

This morning the girls happily awoke for the surprised the Easter bunny had left. They were so excited to see that the bunny had left them each a bathing suit, goggles, swing ring, chocolate bunny, a kite, color wonders, and a few other little things. Kennadi was sad b/c she thought the bunny was actually going to be at our house to see her. She said, "But I wanted to hug him."

We had a great, soggy Easter. The electricity went out at church right during the sermon. Our preacher never skipped a beat and just kept on going. Kennadi fell asleep in her chair at children's church. This is how I found her when I went to pick her up. I couldn't resist snapping a pic before I woke her up.

The kids enjoying their indoor egg hunt on a yucky, raining, Easter Sunday.

I hope everyone had a great day!

Easter Eggs

2009-04-11T19:54:00.000-07:00

The girls had a fun time tonight dying Easter eggs. Kennadi did not really remember this from last year, so she was so excited when she saw the eggs coming out all colored. She kept saying, "Halle that is so cool!"
Don't you guys just love the curlers in Kennadi's hair? She was all rolled up ready for her "Easter do." She thinks she looks so fabulous in these rollers. She loves to look in the mirror at herself.

They were so excited as they went off to bed. They could not wait for the bunny to arrive. However, Halle came out of bed asking how can she know for sure that the bunny is real and not just parents buying stuff to put in the baskets. I just told her that Santa and the Easter bunny are real as long as you believe. When you stop believing, they are no longer real. She said that if you believe in Santa, he will live forever.

Brant said he is afraid that fun time of pretend with her will be coming to an end pretty soon. I can't bear the thought of that.

I don't know girls, I need help with this situation. We can't stand lying, but we don't know what to do. Any suggestions?

Easter Egg Hunt 2009

2009-04-11T19:15:00.001-07:00

This morning was our annual children's ministry egg hunt at church. There were tons of eggs! The girls both got really in to it. They were able to collect eggs until their baskets overflowed. We had great weather and a wonderful time. I hope the weather will hold up for another egg hunt tomorrow at mom's, but I'm not so sure.

They started off with story time. The kids listened to the story of the resurrection with the resurrection eggs.

The little kids are all lined up and ready to go on an egg hunt! Kennadi could hardly wait to gather the eggs.

The girls proudly showing off their finds. They could not wait to sit down and find out what was inside all the eggs. There were even a few "golden" eggs to be found with money in them. My girls didn't find the golden eggs, but they were excited to see them being found.

Cupcake time! The girls really enjoyed liking all the icing off the cupcakes. As Halle used to say, "I don't like the crust-just the icing." You should have seen me trying to keep the green icing off of Kennadi's pale pink capri outfit. I was so glad we she finished that cupcake!

Happy Easter everyone!

Halle's Easter Party

2009-04-11T19:03:00.000-07:00

Halle had her Easter party at school on Thursday. I am homeroom mom so I organized the party and worked with the kids on a craft. They all had a good time and lots of sugar!

How Does Your Garden Grow?

2009-04-11T18:12:00.000-07:00

This year Brant and I are trying a garden for the very first time. We decided since it was the first time we have ever attempted one that we would make it small. So we made an 8X8 elevated garden. We have been so excited to get it started.

Today we finally got the opportunity to plant our veggies. We planted squash, okra, corn, and cucumber. We also planted a strawberry plant in another container.

The girls were so excited with their vegetable plants in hand. They could not wait to plant them.

We thought a garden would be fun for the kids. Halle loves everything to with gardening and flowers. She is very excited and now we just anxiously await the harvest! I hope we have a harvest. :)

Spring Break Camping Trip

2009-03-25T07:28:00.000-07:00

We started our spring break off with a camping trip. The girls have been so excited to go for weeks now. We went with another couple friend of ours and their two girls. The girls all play so well together and have been friends since they were born.

Brant and Paul spent a lot of time fishing. This first pic is of Halle proudly holding one of Brant's catches. She was more proud of herself for holding the fish than she was of Brant catching it!

We had such a good time camping. We did so much that it is hard to blog about it all. We left on Friday afternoon.

Paul and Wanda's girls stayed with us in our camper the first night. All the girls were so excited to be having a "sleepover" in the camper. We thought we would never get them to go to sleep!

On Saturday, Brant and Paul did some more fishing while the girls all played around camp. We had a fish fry on Saturday night. My parents and some other friends came up for that. We all had a good time.

Kennadi enjoyed peeking out of the camper door through the little sliding window. The kids also loved to use this as an order window. Sometimes I felt as though I might be running a concession stand!

Unfortunately, Kennadi began to feel bad on Saturday afternoon. She started running a fever by Saturday night.
This is a pic of Kennadi after taking her bath. She was tired and cold. So I wrapped her up in her towel. She looked like a little burrito!

By Sunday morning, Kennadi seemed to be feeling better. he girls played around the camp while the guys went fishing again. After lunch we took the girls to the lake to play on the beach. The girls loved playing in the sand and making sand castles.

Kennadi found the beach pretty fun, but she was not about to get sand in her shoes. She insisted that I put a towel down for her to stand on. She is not one that goes for dirt!

Paul and Brant let the girls take turns going out in the boat to fish. They loved doing this even though they did not catch anything. At least they were able to cast and reel!

While we were at the lake, I began noticing that Kennadi's temp was rising. She started to act like she was not feeling very well.

We took her back to camp and when I took her temp it was 104! I paniced to say the least. What camping trip would not be complete without a trip to the ER? Brant and I loaded her up and took her to the ER. They tested her for the flu and it came back positive. I could not believe that she had the flu!

After the ER visit we had a delima: go home or stay. I knew Kennadi needed to go home, but I knew it would absolutely break Halle's heart to have to pack up and go home early.

My parents called and did not want us to have to come home early, so they graciously offered to come down and pick Kennadi up. She had been asking to go home with them the night before when they were at the fish fry anyway, so they thought that would be the perfect plan. I was torn. I knew Kennadi would be fine with them, but I felt like a horrible mother letting her go. Talk about pain-it is so hard to feel torn between your 2 kids. But Kennadi helped me out. I said, "Kennadi, do you want mommy to go home with you, or do you want Nenaw to come and get you." Of course she wanted my mom to come. I said, "I feel bad leaving you when you are sick." To which she replied, "I'm not sick, I happy!"

So we met my parents and she happily climbed into the car. When they drove away I had tears streaming down my face. But I knew she would be fine-and she was. She jumped at the chance to go home with them and have their undivided attention.

With Kennadi happy and safe with my parents, we went on to camp for 2 more days.

On Sunday we went to see a house that was built back in the 1800's. It was a neat place. It even had a small playhouse out back. The girls really thought that was neat.

After lunch we took the girls to Paul's parents house. They have a pond and we wanted them to have a chance to catch some fish. And boy did they! We all got to catch a lot of fish. Halle caught 2 catfish.

Here is a pic of the guys weighing the catfish Halle caught. It weighed 8lbs!

She also caught an albino catfish. Paul's dad said that was the only one in the pond. We could not believe she had caught that!

The girls were completely exhausted after their big fishing expedition. They layed over on each other and rested all the way back to camp.

The girls also met a new friend while camping. Her name is Savannah. She was staying with her grandparents who were camping right across from her. She was about their age and they all played really well together.

Savannah's grandpa makes crafts out of wood. He gave Halle, Kristie, and Mikayla all something he had made. Halle got a dog. She is so proud of that dog! I thought it was really nice of him to give them something.

We also enjoyed time around the campfire. The girls loved roasting marshmellows and making smores.

Even Emmi got in on the campfire fun. Yes, she went camping too. I'm not sure what she thought of it all, but I do know she was dirtier than she had ever been in her life!

As the saying goes, all good things must come to an end. On Tuesday morning we packed up and headed home. We were all really glad to see Kennadi. She is feeling so much better now. I just hate that she had to miss the rest of the camping trip. But I know she will get to enjoy many more in the future.

We enjoyed getting to make fond memories with the girls and look forward to making many more!

Potty Training - Who's Training Who?

2009-03-07T10:27:00.000-08:00

For the past few months we have been attempting to pottytrain Kennadi. It has not been going well to say the least. I think she has been training us instead! She has begun to rebel against the potty in general. She likes being a baby and doesn't mind telling you that.

One day she was watching me go to the potty and she said, "Mommy you go pee pee?" I replied, "Yes b/c I am a big girl and I get to wear big girl panties." She then replied happily, "Not me!"

I haven't been real strick about it especially since she has been sick for the past month or so. But the other day we got an all clear on her recurrent ear infection and I decided it is time to get serious.

I have now resorted to sticker charts and candy. We'll see if we can't bribe her to use the potty. She is now most of the time agreeing to at least sit on the potty, but she also doesn't mind having accidents. I am hoping she will accept that it is time to be a big girl and leave the diapers behind. Wish me luck!

Klutzy Mom Strikes Again

2009-03-07T10:08:00.000-08:00

Well I have managed to dumbly injure myself again. Yesterday I hit my foot on a piece of furniture while walking through my bedroom. I heard a toe pop and immediately fell on the floor with pain. I can barely walk on that foot - especially with shoes on. This is the result of the injury. I think I may have broken it. So now I have a mangled finger and toe!

I know you all just love getting to look at pics of my feet. Your welcome! Don't look too closely at the paint job. It is about time for a pedicure since the weather is getting warm. Ladies, it will be time to pull out all the fabulous sandals and flip flops soon.

SNOW!!! Well, Sort Of.

2009-02-28T18:16:00.000-08:00

I could not believe it when I looked outside today and saw snowflakes falling on the deck. It looked so pretty. Finally, when the girls could stand it no more, we bundled them up and let them go out on the deck and play. They had a lot of fun playing in almost no snow! Sometimes here in Arkansas we get desperate!

(Isn't it funny that my last post was of the girls sitting outside in short sleeves eating popsicles?)

Good Weather Days

2009-02-26T15:14:00.001-08:00

Thank you Lord for the beautiful weather over the past 2 days! It makes me actually believe that Spring is on its way. The girls loved the opportunity to get outside and play. I don't know how it is at your house, but around here - great weather days go hand-in-hand with a popsicle. So, of course, the girls jumped at the chance to have a popsicle for a snack this afternoon. I can't wait for Spring - and daylight savings time!

Good-Bye Training Wheels!

2009-02-26T15:00:00.000-08:00

Finally-off with the training wheels. Halle finally braved the bike without her training wheels. Brant said, "That's it, no more training wheels." She was able to to learn in one afternoon. Now she rides like a pro! I can't believe she is so big!

You've gotta love how Rambo our German Shepherd followed her every move. He wasn't going to let her fall!

The Lakeside 15th Annual Daddy/Daughter Dance

2009-02-20T15:57:00.000-08:00

This is Halle's second and final year to attend the Daddy/Daughter dance at Lakeside. She was so excited to go tonight. She said, "I'm ready to party!"

Kennadi surprised her with a bouquet of red tulips that she loved dearly.

She also enjoyed posing for all of our picture snapping. She even offered to go and get her crown and put it on for some of the pics. We told her that would not be necessary!

They posed for several rounds of photos and then they were off to dance the night away (or at least until 8:00 p.m. when the dance is over).

My Poor Baby!

2009-02-19T18:07:00.000-08:00

Kennadi has had a run of bad luck in the wellness department. She has had an ear infection for about 6 weeks that we can't seem to get to clear up. She has had 3 rounds of antibiotics plus a shot and nothing has worked. Our next stop is to the ENT.

She has also had some belly trouble which led to x-rays and other uncomfortable things. She is now on tummy med as well.

What's next, 5ths Disease of course! Brock had it last week, so it is not shock that she now has it. It doesn't really bother her, it just looks horrible with the red cheeks and rash on her arms.

I am so hoping to get her well and keep her well very soon!

Her and daddy resting on another day of feeling yucky.

A "Smashing" Day

2009-02-19T17:53:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was quite eventful at my house. Kennadi is sick (again) with an ear infection that we can't get to clear up. So I called the doctor and they had a cancellation for 11 a.m. I was thrilled and said we would be there! As I loaded Kennadi up in the car I shut her door and slammed my finger in the door. Blood literally went everywhere! It sprayed all over my shirt (that I had just taken the tages off of, mind you), it sprayed on the car-even on to the trunk. It was on the concrete beside the car and even running down the car. I freaked! I wasn't sure how bad it was so I wrapped it up with a wipie and was screaming in pain. I was so scared that my finger was cut off and also that Kennadi was going to miss her doctor's appointment. I called Brant and had to repeat myself 3 times before he could understand what was going on. I also called my mom at work and she came racing over. I felt stupid having both of them come home from work all b/c of a dumb finger. But seriously, I was in MAJOR pain - and I've had 2 c-sections! My mom took Kennadi to the doctor and Brant stayed with me. The finger is better. It just got the top digit of my index finger. That digit may be broken, but there is nothing to do about that. I just have to deal with the pain and hope it heals quickly.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T11:41:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a great Valentine's Day!

Halle celebrated her class party on Wednesday. They of course had an overabundance of candy. They all handed out their Valentines and had a fun time. I took some pics of her with some of her classroom buddies.

Halle, Rain, and Lydia.

Hailie, Allysa, Halle, and Katie.

Brant and I celebrated our Valentines on Friday night. My mom kept the kids (thanks mom). Brant told me I needed to stay out of the house for an hour or so. I was kind of nervous wondering what he was up to. When I came home, he had a candlelight dinner for me that he had prepared himself. We ate and watched a movie. To top it off, we got to sleep in this morning! It was a nice Valentine's Day.

Rainy Days

2009-02-10T11:25:00.000-08:00

Every since Kennadi got her rain boots for Christmas, she looks forward to rainy days. So naturally this morning she was all about wearing her boot to school. I couldn't resist her and both girls dressed in their boots and umbrellas before heading off to school. They were so happy for a rainy day! You can always count on your children to find the silver lining in everything.

Twister!

2009-02-10T11:16:00.001-08:00

Halle got Twister for Christmas. She wanted to play the other night. I know I was feeling a little old for Twister. It reminded me of playing Twister in an elevator at Beta Club Convention - anyone else remember that?

Update

2009-02-10T11:11:00.000-08:00

Holly finally had the baby last night about 10 p.m. by c-section. She weighed 10lbs and was 19in long. The cord was not around the neck and she appeared healthy. They are not sure what caused this death. They did offer an autopsy which Holly declined.

I did talk to Heather today. They are all just devestated. She said Holly has been pretty much medicated the whole time and that today it would probably all begin to sink in. Please remember them. This is such a shock to a really great family.

Also, in case some haven't already heard...Lane Buttrum and his wife also lost their little girl yesterday. She has been sick, but went unexpectedly yesterday.

Times like this make us question why. But we know it is not always for us to understand. I know it sure made me hold my babies a little tighter last night.

Your Prayers Needed

2009-02-09T13:54:00.000-08:00

Some of you guys know my friend Heather Chancellor. I would like you guys to please pray for her sister and family. Today her sister, Holly, went in to the hospital to be induced with her second baby. They could not get a heartbeat on the baby this morning upon arriving at the hosptial. After several tries, they found that the baby had died.
Holly had felt the baby moving yesterday morning, but was a little concerned later on yesterday that the baby hadn't moved. She was expecting a baby girl.
Right now she is enduring labor to deliver the baby.
Please be in prayer for her and her family during this extremely difficult time. She is expected to deliver sometime tonight.

Baby, It's Cold Outside!

2009-01-28T14:20:00.000-08:00

I do not think it is fair for it be so cold outside and yet we have no snow!!!!! What is up with that? Halle's school has been closed due to the icy weather. So the girls and I have been stuck in for the past 2 days. They have actually had a lot of fun, I think.

They are really in to going into their room, turning up the music and dancing around. They love that! We are already having to scream, "Turn the music down, it is too loud!" I thought we would have a few years left before we would be doing that!

I also got them involved helping with some of the chores around the house and they really loved that. Who knew 2 little girls could love to unload the dishwasher the way they do?

Since the weather cleared some after early morning today, we decided to pack a lunch and go see daddy at work. Halle was excited to help make the lunches. They both really love going to daddy's office.

All-in-all, it has been a good 2 days worth of "snow days" - even though we have yet to see any snow! I'm still holding out hope that February will bring us some.

Dog Sitting

2009-01-28T14:14:00.000-08:00

My parents went on a cruise last week and we were in charge of dog sitting Lexi their 10 year old yorkie. Lexi and Emmi in the house together with 2 small kids is a handful. I think Lexi was glad to go home b/c our house is wild and crazy all the time and she is use to the more quiet lifestyle. One day while we were keeping Lexi I walked in to the living room and saw Lexi and Emmi sitting on the couch with Halle and I thought it was cute so I snapped a pic.

A Doggy Mishap

2009-01-09T11:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I had a little doggy mishap....Emmi was in desperate need of a grooming appointment. So I called last week to make her an appointment for yesterday since I would be at work and could take her on my way. I dropped her off and told them to call me if they had any problems (not thinking anything of that statement since she has never had any problems while being groomed). At lunch I received a call saying they had cut her while they were clipping her. The poor lady was very upset and said that she thought she needed to go to the vet. The man assured me it was not an emergency. So my mom went to pick her up. They did not get to finish grooming her b/c after the cut, the lady panicked and refused to trim her again. They gave my mom my money back and their card in case in incurred any vet bills b/c of the cut. They told my mom they really did not want me to bring Emmi back b/c they thought she may need to be medicated in order to be groomed in the future. I have never had anyone tell me this before, so I was surprised. Anyway, Emmi was now half groomed and had a cut on her neck.

Brant picked her up from my mom after he got home from work b/c I did not get off until 6p.m. He decided to "finish" her haircut. When I came home I almost did not recognize my poor little Emmi. She looks like an albino chihuahua! She looks so sickly and pitiful. Poor dog. In case you have forgotten what she looked like prior, look back at a post of her on my blog in December and you will see how pitiful it is!

She is not happy at all! She just looks at us with stress and sadness. Poor Emmi!

Hot Springs Mountain

2009-01-09T10:36:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we took the girls up on the Hot Springs Mountain. We were out driving around killing time before going to visit my grandparents, and I thought they would like to see the moutain. The weather was extremely warm for a December day so it was nice. The girls enjoyed looking out over the mountain and trying to pick out places we recognized. I haven't been up there in years and we would like to take them to the tower one day this spring. We spend so much busy time in our lives that we forget to take in the scenery that our own town holds.

Christmas Morning

2008-12-28T16:46:00.000-08:00

The girls were very excited on Christmas morning. They opened their gifts and were very happy. Then we told them there was a surprise for them in the playroom. They ran in their to find their new Rose Petal Cottage play house. They immediately began to play with it and then we told Halle there was one more surprise for her outside. She ran outside to discover her brand new pink 4-wheeler. She has been wanting a 4-wheeler for a long time. She did not really expect to get one for Christmas, so she was very excited!

They had a great Christmas morning. Kennadi was very excited. She would say "Oh my goodness!" after almost every gift. When Halle would open her gifts, she would say "Oh Halle!" She was very cute!

It was a special morning filled with memories.

Cookies For Santa

2008-12-28T16:37:00.000-08:00

Class Christmas Party

2008-12-28T16:28:00.000-08:00

Halle's 1st grade class Christmas party was the Thursday before Christmas. They had a lot of goodies, of course, followed by some games and a story. Halle had a great time, but is really ready for her Christmas break.

"Angels We Have Heard"

2008-12-15T16:38:00.000-08:00

Last night I directed a Children's musical at our church entitled "Angels We Have Heard." Every year we do a musical. It is always lots of work, but incredibly rewarding. They do such a wonderful job - it is such a blessing. Those kids always lift me up. They always make me proud!

Gingerbread House

2008-12-15T16:28:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine who is kind of a grandmother to my girls gave them an early Christmas present. It was a gingerbread house. We have never done one before. The girls were really excited. I let Halle do one side and Kennadi the other. I iced the candy for them and they placed them where they wanted to. It was a lot of fun. The girls loved getting to be creative with candy. They were very proud of themselves when they were done.

Our Emmi

2008-12-11T19:32:00.000-08:00

Last year for Christmas we got the girls a puppy. She is a maltipoo named Emmi. She is a very sweet dog who is very attached to me. She is my shadow all day long. We love her and are very glad to have her as part of our family. I took a few pics of her to send to the people we got her from, so I thought I would post them on here too.

"Christmas - On The Air"

2008-12-08T06:48:00.001-08:00

This weekend was our church's annual Christmas concert. This year we did a drama performance entitled "Christmas - On the Air." It took place in a radio station. I am directing our children's choir right now and they got to be in it as well. My little Halle had a solo in the performance. She did such a great job. Brant even participated in the drama. He was the station manager. He did a great job as well. We performed on Saturday and Sunday night. We had a great turnout for both performances. I'm sure we had at least 300 people who attended. God truly blessed us and we had 2 great performances.

A Crafty Christmas

2008-12-02T11:36:00.000-08:00

This year I decided to be a little crafty with Christmas gifts. I made these picture frames for teacher gifts. I got the idea for these from a craft show. They aren't as great as the ones they had, but I think they turned out cute. Kari and Mere-don't laugh!

I am also working on a table and chair set for my girls. This has been an extremely invovled project that is far from finished. I am 1/2 way through with the chairs. They still have to have some more paint and varnish. Each chair is also going to have their initial on it. I haven't started on the table yet, but I am currently working on the table legs. This set will not be perfect by any means, but I hope my girls will love it b/c they know it is something I put a lot of time and love into.

I love Christmas time and enjoy doing projects during December. It makes the holidays a little more special.

I Am Thankful For...

2008-11-28T18:24:00.000-08:00

I thought I would take time out today to reflect on the things I am most thankful for during this Thanksgiving season. I have been so blessed in my life and it is good for the soul to take a look at all we have been given. It is so easy to focus on what we do not have - especially by the world's standards - that sometimes we forget to remember all the things we do have.

I am thankful for....
*my crew: Brant, Halle, and Kennadi. I love them all so very much and am so lucky to have them. They make me want to be a better person everyday.
*my family: my parents, my brother, my grandparents. I am thankful to still have my Grandma and Grandpa Prince and Mammaw Nancy living. I am grateful for the time I do get to spend with them.
*my salvation - I'm thankful that God found me worthy enough to die for me.
*my health
*my great friends who are always there for me. They make me laugh - sometimes til I cry.
*my home
*my church family - their love and kindness always makes me smile.
*my ability to be a full-time mom to my girls. It is truly the greatest accomplishment in life.
*my dogs - Raine, Rambo, and little Emmi. I love their loyalty and unconditional love.
*other moms-I am thankful for the advice and support other moms bring to me. It makes me feel normal at times we I think I'm not so normal.
*laughter-I am learning to not take myself so seriously and to laugh. This is a hard task for a type A personality such as myself. I try not to sweat the small stuff and learn to laugh when there is nothing else I can do.
*I am thankful that Anne Presley's killer was finally captured and hopefully will be brought to justice. I hope her family can find peace.

These are some of the things I am thankful for. I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving. I encourage everyone to take a little time out this weekend to remember all the things you are thankful for.

Fall Fun!

2008-11-15T16:21:00.000-08:00

Today we spent the morning raking leaves and mulching them up. Our yard was full. The girls enjoyed jumping and playing in the leaves. It was lots of fun. It took me back to when I was a little girl. I loved to jump in the leaves. I also love the smell of burning leaves. I love Fall and am enjoying it very much this year. All the colors are so beautiful! If you are not already excited about Fall, I hope these pics will make you that way.

All I Want For Christmas....

2008-11-12T07:46:00.000-08:00

Halle is now officially a snaggle tooth! She lost her last front tooth this past Sunday. She let my mom pull it. I was just starting to get use to her with one tooth gone, now she looks even more different. It's cute though!

Build A Bear

2008-11-12T07:22:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday we had big plans. I was taking Halle to see the play Junie B. Jones at the Children's Theatre. My mom was going to take Kennadi to Alltel to see Pooh on Stage. We dropped my mom and Kennadi off at Alltel to purchase tickets and go see the show. Halle and I headed over a few blocks to see Junie B. Jones. When we arrived at the play, we soon saw that the play had been sold out. So I took a crying Halle back to the car and called my mom to see if they were settled in at Alltel. Mom said, "All the doors are pad locked shut. I don't think they are having Pooh today." Apparently they did not sell enough for Pooh so they cancelled the show.

So there we were with all these BIG PLANS that fell flat! We ended up taking the girls to the mall where we saw Santa (yes, I said Santa -I could not believe he was already at the mall!). Then we headed to Build A Bear so the girls could make a bear. It turned out to be fun for them, but what a crazy day!

Ouachita River Photos

2008-11-06T19:13:00.000-08:00

Today my mom wanted to take all 4 grandkids down to the river and take pics. I decided to take my camera along to snap some too. Here are a few pics that I took while there. All the kids are growing up so fast! It is heartbreaking. It is fun, but sad at the same time.

We could not get Brady to smile in any pics. He is at the "big guy" age. He thought it was much cooler to look solemn. We teased him about his girlfriend to try to get him to smile!

Bye Lola!

2008-11-06T12:55:00.000-08:00

Our last puppy went home with her new owners yesterday. We have been keeping her for them for a few weeks, so we have kinda' gotten attached to her. She is going to a guy named Charlie, so we nicknamed her Lola while she was with us. We thought that was fitting!

I wanted to take a few pics of her before she left so we could remember her. We know she is getting a great home and will make her new owners very happy!

The Wright's 5th Annual Fall Bash

2008-11-05T07:42:00.000-08:00

We attended the Wright's Fall Bash this past weekend. The kids had lots of fun. They played games, ate hot dogs, and rode a hay ride. It was fun to spend time with friends. We were attneding the Fall Bash when the earthquake happened around our house, so we missed the action of that.

Thanks to the Wright family for inviting us to attend their party. We are thankful for good friends.

Trunk or Treat!

2008-11-01T08:36:00.000-07:00

We took the girls to our church last night for Trunk or Treat and the Fall Festival. They had a great time. This was the first year that Kennadi actually knew what we going on. She loved the idea of getting candy at every car. She also loved the games and hay ride.

Halle had a great time with all of her friends and she especially loved helping Nenaw and Pappy hand out candy at their trunk.

It was a great night with great weather and we all had a wonderful time. I was sad to see it end b/c I knew next Halloween my girls would be even older! I am not handling them aging all that well. I love that they are growing and becoming smart little girls, but it breaks my heart at the same time. I am trying to SLOW DOWN and enjoying these moments as they come instead of rushing through them.

Halle's Halloween Party

2008-10-31T15:01:00.000-07:00

Halle had her Halloween class party this afternoon. It was wild as usual. We served them lots of treats. I brought a craft for them to make. They made paper sack spider puppets. It was lots of fun, but I was glad when it came to an end. :)

A Hallooween Visit To Mammaw and Pappaw

2008-10-31T14:47:00.000-07:00

Last night we began Halloween early by dressing the girls up and taking them to see my grandparents. My grandma has not been feeling well and is unable to get out, so we wanted to pay them a visit. They enjoyed seeing the girls in their costumes. Brady and Brock came to visit too, so I got a chance to snap a group pic of all the kids.

I hope everyone has a safe and happy Halloween!

AWANA Balloon Release

2008-10-30T13:16:00.000-07:00

Last night our AWANA kids at church had their annual balloon release. We release one balloon per child per night they have attended AWANA this year. It adds up to be a lot of balloons! It is very fun. The kids just love it. We attach name tags to each balloon that contains our church address. The tag asks the people who find the balloons to please return them to our church. We have a contest with the kids to see whose balloon goes the farthest. They receive prizes at the end of the year. It is a lot of fun for them. It is very interesting to see where the balloons go. We get some pretty interesting people that find the balloons. Every year it is a new experience.

Miss Kennadi got to experience this for the first time this year. She has been so small in the past that she did not know what was going on. She just stood there amazed this year - the pics will say it all.

Hiking at Lake Catherine State Park

2008-10-25T19:17:00.001-07:00

We took the girls hiking at Lake Catherine State Park today. The weather was beautiful! We had a good time hiking, seeing the changing leaves, and picnicing. Here are some pics of our adventure today.

Girls Just Wanna' Have Fun

2008-10-25T18:56:00.000-07:00

Halle and her friends had such a good time at their sleepover. They are so funny when they get together.

They dressed up and danced to music for us. They love to entertain. Even if Kennadi got into the action.

The Children Were Nestled All Snug in Their Bed

2008-10-24T20:36:00.000-07:00

I finally got the sleepover girls to settle down and get in the bed. I can still hear them in their giggling, but at least they are in the bed. They have had a big time tonight watching movies, playing dress up, eating pizza, bathtime, you name it. I remember the days of sleepovers. I hope my girls can create as many happy memories with their friends as I did...and still do.

Exercise

2008-10-24T20:30:00.000-07:00

I'm glad to know that someone is making good use of my elliptical machine. I came in the room this morning and saw Halle pushing Kennadi on it. Kennadi was laying on one of the foot petals like it was a ride. They found much amusement in this for quite some time. I thought it was too funny and snapped a few pics.

Maybe if I would use it more they would know the correct way it is to be used. lol

We Love a Parade

2008-10-24T20:24:00.001-07:00

Today we went to pick up Halle's friends for a sleepover. When we picked them up in Malvern, they were having their homecoming parade. So we decided to stay and watch. Kennadi is fascinatied by bands and drums especially, so she was totally thrilled to see the parade. The queen is a girl that goes to our church, so the girls enjoyed seeing her all dressed up. They had a big time.

Puppy Love

2008-10-24T20:19:00.000-07:00

Our baby german shepherds are 7 weeks old now and ready to go. We have actually sold all of them except one. We still have one of the females that we sold. We are boarding her until she is 12 weeks. So at least we don't have to say goodbye to her just yet.

We delivered one of our males to his new owners today. I snapped a couple of pics of him with Halle and Emmi. It is hard to say goodbye to them, but we know they will be loved. His new owner has already called us this evening to let us know he is doing just fine!

I thought the pic was cute and wanted to post it.

Let Sleeping Girls Lie

2008-10-22T12:02:00.000-07:00

This week Brant is on vacation. We are working on laying hard wood flooring in the girl's bedroom and playroom. So today we were pretty busy working on that. It came time for Kennadi's nap and she was playing pretty good so I decided to leave her. I thought that I would just let her sleep in the car on the way to pick up Halle.

She was in our bedroom watching TV. We went by the room and noticed that she had crawled upon our hope chest and fallen asleep. I couldn't resist the photo op and snapped a few shots. I thought it was too cute - and thought I would share.

Horseback Riding

2008-10-18T18:52:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago a friend of mine took Halle horseback riding. Halle has been wanting to ride a horse forever. Sara has been barrel riding since she was about 7. She loves my girls and was more than happy to take them for a ride. Halle was absolutely thrilled beyond belief! She rode and rode. She could not get enough of it. You can probably tell by her face how happy she was that day.

She was able to watch the horse be saddled and then helped clean her up after they were through. She learned that there is a lot of work that goes into caring for horses.

That day just made her want a horse even more. She doesn't understand why we cannot have one. She says, "We have plenty of room!" I'm thinking: You don't even help clean up after our 5 lb. malti-poo much less a horse!

Pumpkin Patch 2008

2008-10-18T18:25:00.001-07:00

Today was our Children's Ministry annual trip to the Pumpkin Patch. Since Brant and I were gone to the retreat, my mom and dad took the kids. They had a good time and mom took lots of pics of course. Now anytime Kennadi sees a pumpkin she points and says "pumpkin patch!".