Life of the Forey's

Kolbie Michelle 21 months old

2011-12-07T12:53:00.010-06:00

All I can say us WOW. How fast my angel baby girl is blossoming into a little girl is astonishing. Her gibber jabbers have turned into full blown sentences. Our MaMa and DaDa names have been lengthened to Mommy and Daddy. That was a huge punch in the stomach and the biggest realization that she is getting bigger. She is a bossy little thing that loves to get on to her brother and Lucy at every opportunity. "No no Bubba!" "No no Lose!" it's pretty much adorable. Always.

Kolbie loves to carry her babies around with her everywhere. The car, school, grocery store...you name and "my baaaaby!" comes. When we are at home she pushes baby all around the house and is not a happy camper when Daddy teases her that it's his baby. If you ask nicely...she will let you hug baby. Not for to long though.

Prissy Sissy is the best description for her. I have ruined her with her bows and shoes and pretty clothes that now she pitches a fit when it's time to take them off. So much so that I have to do a switcheroo and trick her to put a "sleep bow" in her hair. "My shoes! My Shoes!!" The only way of getting those off is by playing the smell my stinky foot game...where Mommy and Daddy always loose! Her love for her shoes has gone so far that she picks out which ones she wants to wear that day, and I coordinate her outfit to match. Pretty ridiculous...I know. I will apologize to her daddy in about 13 years when we are spending more money on her shoes than we are on her wardrobe.

She has mastered a new art of fit throwing. Imagine that. She's perfected the limp body and drop to the floor move that she has no doubt learned from her big brother. But her own addition of banging her fist and feet on the floor is classic. Humorous at first, but warrants a few taps on the bottom every time.

Her intellectual progression is astounding. Since starting school her vocabulary is quadrupled. She has become a doodler and the new artist of the family. A pencil and a piece of paper can keep her busy. Take your eye off of her and the art is on the table, floor, books, anywhere she see's fit. She hasn't discovered the walls as canvas yet, and for that I am thankful!

Nevertheless...counting down the days till it happens.

She is a human sponge and absorbs everything. Her biggest teacher is her big brother. I didn't use the description if best teacher because he doesn't always use his best behavior when teaching his tiny tag along. Climbing on counters and tables has become her forte.

Speaking of tiny...or lack there of...we went to the doctor the other day for a cold that we just could not kick. Guess what. Kaylon 33 lbs. Kolbie 27 lbs!! 5 lbs difference! What in the world!!

Her heart is so big and her sweet girl smile can move mountains. It doesn't matter if your 21 months or 21 years. You will always be my angel baby girl.

Welcome Home Daddy

2011-11-21T12:14:00.005-06:00

After 6 weeks away in MS, Daddy was able to return home FOR GOOD!!

Words can not express how much we have missed him, and how life was just not the same with out him in our daily lives.

Ofcourse This is how we spent our Sunday :)

Gotta sport the Mardi Gras beads!

a SMILE that melts hearts!

Working hard!

Couldn't resist posting this picture! LOVE the super hero undies poking through!!

I don't know if you realize this, but my angel baby girl is missing. LOOK at that little girl that has taking her place!

Busy Busy

2011-11-21T12:10:00.005-06:00

Life has been a little crazy around the house the past 30 days. Apart from the big changes I posted about not long ago...I decided to open my own little Boutique called "Perfect Angels."

I love sewing and creating things as a hobby for my kiddos and have decided to start small with custom orders and craft booths at local fairs...so far so good! Stay tuned though because I may decide opening a Facebook store may be the way to go!

Wish me luck with this new adventure!!

Big Changes

2011-10-26T20:30:00.008-05:00

Just because its on the top of my mind... My daughter handed me some of her poop today. Yep, you read that right. Earlier this week she decided to put her hands in her poopy diaper, and that was gross enough. Today, partly my fault...I delayed in tossing the fresh change in to the diaper genie, got side tracked and an instant later...i was handed a nice big poop patty. I hope this is not a new thing. I'm kind of mortified!

I realize I may have lost some of you by using the word poop and/or diaper one to many times. Sorry. My daughter will be a teenager one day and doubt my knowledge and love for her. That is when she will read this...on to the real post.

BIG CHANGES

-Big Change #1 -Missing Daddy

Well, Cliff Notes version of a long story...We moved back home (to Texas) earlier than originally planned, and left Daddy to work all alone in MS for a couple weeks (that has now turned in to 6...weeks.) So we are desperately missing him. Skyping is nice, but could never replace his daily presence. (Btw...thank you for the surprise visit home last weekend...2 weeks was long enough with out you, hopefully we don't have to wait 4 more to see you again:)

-Big Change #2- Separation Anxiety

Its a real thing. And it wears on your heart...and your nerves. Kaylon can no longer venture off on his own to learn, explore, discover, or urinate. I can not walk from one room to the next with out notifying him first, in which he always chooses the option to follow. I rarely had alone time before...now...there is no such thing. He went from sleeping on his own, to reverting back into my bed. Closing a door...any door...at any time...unacceptable. The moment i am no longer in sight, his fear hits him like a lightning bolt...fast and intense. Screaming, crying, running around (usually in the opposite direction I am in) with crocodile tears running down his face. When we meet, his heart is pounding, his breathing is rapid, and the sobbing is nearly uncontrollable. It breaks my heart. Then he has to throw it on the floor and stomp on it by saying "You LEFT me!! I was lost."

I realize the move and Daddy being away are a lot for a 3 year old to deal with. This is where my learned patience comes in very handy. My heart hurts for him because he is so afraid. But, it is VERY exhausting. Counting the days until he can harness his fears and know that leaving the room is not equivalent to abandonment. Crossing my fingers it happens sooner than later.

-Big Change #3- Crossroads Early Learning Center

This is the biggest change of all and probably warrants its own post, so bare with me.

After 3 years being solely employed as a Stay At Home Mom, I left that career in the dust today and started a new adventure in mass child care. My new tittle...Mrs. Aimee, Lead Teacher of the Pre K 3 class.

The education for my children, extra income, and environment change all played a part in the decision to go forward with this. Both of my kids did very well at their previous Mothers Day out program, but since our move to MS...the have been fully in my care 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Now that we are home, a change was in order. All though great, and a necessity for some...I have always thought "Day Care" facilities were not for our family. That was me being naive. This place is AMAZING. The facility is very nice, the curriculum is impressive, and the staff are some of the kindest gentile souls you will ever meet. I am honored they chose me to join them.

My new duties are some what intimidating. Making a lesson plan, following a curriculum, the over all education of 3 and 4 year olds...whew...this is not just a wipe your nose and play nice with others general care job here. Today was my 1st (1/2) day and my feet hurt and my brain is on over load. I didn't want to admit to my boss that my 3 year old students know what a site word is but I do not (maybe its sight word??? no worries...I'm google-ing it asap) Never the less, I learned a lot today. All I can say is wish me luck!

Kaylon and Kolbie get to be my tag alongs on this new adventure. Kolbie had her 1st (1/2) day in the toddler class room and Kaylon in the 3 year old class (in the future he will be in my class, but today he was not). We got there at breakfast so they were able to sit in the same room to eat while I left to finalize some paper work. When it was time for them to part ways and head to their designated rooms the tears started flowing. And in Kolbie's case never stopped. She cried for a solid 4 hours. Her eyes were red and swollen the rest of the day. Kaylon only cried for 2 hours. Until he saw me again, then the water works spilled out again. I 1/2 expected a version of this reaction, but the endurance is giving me that sick feeling in my gut. Mrs. Simone is Kolbie's teacher and pushed aside all my apologies trying to reassure me that this was a normal thing. I disagree, but we will see. I am not surprised at all at Kolbie endurance, I just thought after 30 min or so, she wold have forgotten about why she was crying. She is way smarter than I give her credit for. Mrs. Aracelli is Kaylon's teacher and did the same. She dismissed my apologies, attempted to reassure me that this "happens all the time" but suggested I bring them a comfort from home. He literally latched on to his sippy cup and did not let it go all day long. This is WAY out of the normal for Kaylon. He has never carried a lovie, or had an emotional attachment to things. Obsessive...yes, attached...i didn't think so.

So, day 2 is tomorrow. A full 8am-5pm day, full of learning, lunch, nap time, and hopefully less tears and much more laughter. We will be fully armed with a piggy and pink blankie for Kolbie, and Spider/Iron Man boots (which ever he decided in the morning) and a new Spider Man blankie for Kaylon. Wish us much much needed LUCK!

(FYI- A sight word is any word that is known by a reader automatically.Sight words are pronounced without decoding the word's spelling,thus learning words by sight only.) Thank you Wikipedia.

Pumpkin Party at Pop & Noni's

2011-10-25T17:59:00.005-05:00

Pop & Noni decided it would be fun to have all four grand kids over for the night and have a Pumpkin Party!! I'm pretty sure this was the first time all four had been together for an all nighter, but word has it...they all did great. They kept busy, that's for sure!

PRICELESS!!

Cookie Monster Party

2011-10-04T17:43:00.001-05:00

As you know, I LOVE making as much as I can for our birthday parties! And even though this party was scaled way back...it still had my personal touch on as much as possible!

Thanks to Aunt KK for making our delicious Cookie Monster cake! Num Num!

My sweet 3 YEAR OLD!

just SOME of our FaVoRiTe people!

The princess was beautiful, as usual!

Uh oh! The SUPER HERO escapes!

The girls had lots of fun with the balloon lady, too!

Showered with lots of love once again as we remember how blessed we are to have such wonderful people surrounding us and our children! It was a great day!

"You slapped me!"

2011-09-29T11:39:00.006-05:00

Talk about a reflex!
Let me set the scene...

There I am laying on our bed, in the middle of a deep conversation (about our broken dryer) when all of the sudden I start getting swatted in the face with a hat.

I make the angry eyes, I point my finger and shake it, all the while still getting swatted with this hat that my son of course begins to think is a game. Mind you, I am still on the phone.

Then all if the sudden this gentle annoying swat turned into a skin stinging smack on my cheek from the brim of this hat. Unfortunately for him, he was in striking distance range.quick as lightning before even I KNEW what happened...SLAP! Right across the check! We were both stunned, that I had to interrupt our conversation and confess my sins! " I just slapped my son!" I told Grammy. Of course she tried to comfort me, but Kaylon is still looking at me flabbergasted by the situation until he finally said in an increasingly upset tone..."You SLAPPED me!"

For which my only response was reiterating that I asked him to stop (which disturbed me how much I sound like my Mother in that very moment)

I felt (still feel) very guilty that it happened and even more so that it left a mark, but you know what...I haven't gotten swatted with that durn hat again! So...I guess it worked!

Oh great! He knows I'm talking about him because now he's hanging on my neck telling me how much he loves me "to pieces." Way to work it little boy!

On a side note:
Kolbie Michelle better watch out with that attitude she's been walking around with lately because that fast as lighting reflex might jump out and regulate again!

Kaylon is 3!

2011-09-23T22:04:00.000-05:00

My sweet super hero is 3 years old today! It has nearly been a solid year now that Iron Man came into our lives, and at one point I was worried Kaylon would never come back. Now we have a multiple personality issue because Spider Man has now graced us with his presence. You never really know who you are talking to anymore. And the armor is not necessarily a give away. He can morph back and forth pretty quickly. 6 months ago I decided to do a Cookie Monster themed birthday party for him because he loved the blue furry guy, and he still does. But, I am feeling pretty guilty about not changing it to Super Hero's, because after all...its no joke. He really is a Super Hero. He's only Kaylon on his down time. What do you do! By his track record, he will still be Spider Man this time next year, and we can go all our super hero! So watch out!

We are going home to have the Cookie Monster party in Crosby, so we decided to have some little Spidey Cupcakes and sing him Happy Birthday with a few of our Mississippi friends (the Duvall's)...and wouldn't you know it...I didn't get a single picture of him...on his 3rd Birthday!

I'm really slacking....

(we did video it though...so I won't beat myself up over it)

Happy Birthday My Hero!! Mommy loves you with all her heart!!

Elmo's SUPER HEROES

2011-09-15T11:21:00.000-05:00

When Ryan took the job in Mississippi, it was moments like these that we were looking forward to. Being able to have family outing, just the four of us...its priceless.

We all know Kaylon is our little super hero, so when I saw that Sesame Street was coming to town we were all about it, and the fact that it was all about "Super Hero's" was a PLUS!

Kolbie's 1st show was the circus a few months ago and she did very well. I was still kind of nervous to see how she would do sitting through a long play like this one. But she looooves Cookie Monster and Big Bird, so I was anxious to see how she would react when seeing them.

They were both so excited! Kaylon has a super big smile on every time Super Grover was on stage, and when he wasn't...he was looking for him!

Kolbie was making "num num" Cookie Monster noises and bird noises all through the 1st half. And when Abby would make her fairy noises, she was in awe!

That was until intermission of course. For the 10 min break we let the kids climb up and down the stairs and play chase ( anything to keep them away from the $10 balloons and the $15 stuffed dolls :)

So when intermission was over, there was no sitting still. Those stairs were on their minds.

The show would get their attention back when it was time to sing songs and wiggle around. When it was all over...they did NOT want to say bye! It was unfortunate the characters dont come out after the show to give hugs and take pictures. Later I found out they do offer it but it is only available at one showing. Lessons learned Mommy. Next time!

(Btw...Kaylon has now changed his dragon slaying helmet into a Super Grover helmet. Which...was very creative because it does look exactly the same!)

Mommy Photography

2011-09-07T15:37:00.006-05:00

Headed to the park today to enjoy this beautiful weather Tropical Storm Lee blew in. Meet Up with some of our MS friends, Rebecca and Addison to have a sweet little picnic and play time. And hey...why not get some good use out of my big fancy camera that the best husband in the world bought for me :)

Had to throw this one in. We heard a train off in the distance and quick as lightning Adalyn was between her Mommy's legs hiding from the train. So cute!!

Labor Day Weekend 2011

2011-09-06T09:05:00.000-05:00

While we were home for the weekend, GG decided she would like to take the kids for the night and treat them to some special GG fun.

We packed up and met her and Aunt B in Katy, and Aunt Meag made the long haul back from San Marcos to visit too. We spent some time at Katy Mills Mall riding the carousel, the cho cho train , and getting a little shopping done.

First chance I got to eat out, We hit up Mexican food! We were having major withdrawals. (Ok... mainly just me...)

GG and the girls took the kids to a neat little Bed and Breakfast in Katy where the kids got to feed the animals and ride on the donkeys. Mom said Kaylon even picked fresh eggs. Thankfully I left her my camera so I have these great shots.

While my Mom had the kids Ryan and I were big nerds spending our night out shopping at Toys R Us. I know, lame! But it was fun for us! Thanks for the break mom!

We visit HOME! (Labor Day 2011)

2011-09-06T08:42:00.000-05:00

Ryan has yet to be able to make it back home to Crosby since the move out here to MS. So we took advantage of the long Labor Day weekend and ventured home.

Friday night we were excited to have a mini Forey reunion with Sean, Melissa, Brynlee and Chance. It was crazy to think the last time we saw them was 6 months ago!! How time flies! Grammy, Pop & Noni, Mema, and Scott all stopped by to hang out too.

It was fun to see the cousins all hanging out together. Brynlee wanted pick up and hold Kolbie all night, and Kolbie wasn't having much of that... She's a big girl now! Kaylon and Chance were bouncing off the wall and the couch and any other surface they could tackle each other on. Those giggles were contagious.

We were all having such a good time in each others company that the only time i thought to pick up the camera was when all the kids gathered around Grammy to get a bite to eat!

(Not the best picture, but a sweet moment no the less!)

Our children did start the day off clothed, but after Kaylon went nuts with the water hose (due to Pop & Noni's encouragement :) the end result was 4 naked toddlers...

The guys mostly hing out outside giving each other a hard time about their upcoming Fantasy football draft, while us girls stayed inside pouring each other another drink! hehe!

It was a great visit and it made us miss home so much.

Grammy visits again

2011-08-19T17:31:00.004-05:00

Grammy came to visit again, but just for the weekend this time. Can you believe I did not take a singe picture!

In the short time she was here she got plenty of loving in and allowed Ryan and I to go on our 1st night out alone in awhile. Boy how I miss those date nights!

We didn't do anything big this time around, but sometimes the best visit are just hanging around and catching up.

Thanks for coming to play Grammy! We always enjoy your visits!

Picture overload

2011-08-19T13:54:00.006-05:00

I just felt like it was time for a picture day. So I tried my hand at some "Mommy Photography!" before our family photos in October. I got in a good 10 minutes before they decided they were finished with the project. I'm no professional, but some of these shots do melt my heart :)

He was posing while she was suffocating! :)

Now she poses and he's being a grump :)

Do I see some strawberry in that shortcake??

I just love them so much I want to squeeze their insides out!!

Aunt Meag

2011-07-30T22:24:00.003-05:00

My little sister took it all on her own to fly solo to MS and visit us before she starts back to school.

She was nervous flying by herself, so the kids and decided we would park the car and meet her at baggage claim. She was surprised to see us inside, and the kids jumped all over her.

Days 1-3 were shopping days (hehe) and day 4 on the way back to the airport the whole family stopped at the New Orleans Aquarium. That was adventure! After I leave large public places like that it reminds me why I try to save them for during school days!! It was a crazy mess with tons of people. Kolbie enjoyed looking at all the neat fish, but Kaylon just liked the cartoon caricatures displayed around the facility. Being in such crowded places with the kids gives me major anxiety, so we saw everything there was to see and headed out for a good lunch.

When it was time to drop Meagan off at the airport, I had to give her a quick hug bye and jump back in the car so she wouldn't see me crying. I hate not being able to spend as much time with my 2 sisters as I used too. But , it makes me cherish these short tips soo sooo soooo much!

I think Aunt B may have officially lost her "favorite Aunt" status! :)

Dana comes to PLAY!!

2011-07-20T09:23:00.002-05:00

What can we possibly pack into 4 days of nothing but RAIN????

NEW ORLEANS

Since we were already there to pick up Dana at the airport...why not play all day in NO? Like everyone else in the city we tried to hide from the rain and enjoy some beignets! Got a little shopping done, ate some GREAT food, and walked, and walked, and walked :)

DAUPHINE ISLAND, ALABAMA

Rain rain go away! It rained the whole way there and the whole way back, but thankfully there was a break in the rain long enough for us to play! To start the island adventure...I decided I would get the blue beast of a Tahoe STUCK in the sand!! (Note: my 1st time driving on the super fine powder!) That adventure swallowed up most of our free time, and quite a bit of our cash too. BUT...the beach was beautiful. The water was a gorgeous shade of turquoise. Kolbie Michelle was brave and and went for a deep swim with Dana. I on the other hand stayed shallow with my dare devil :)

ALLIGATOR FARM, MISSISSIPPI

Not real sure how we decided to do something like tour an Alligator Farm, but hey...it's here, and something new to do!!

I was terrified walking thru the swamps on the rickety planks they called a bridge, and more so when it came to touching the slimy suckers! Brave Dana had to show us up and hold the thing, which was all fine and good until it moved in her hands and she nearly launched the tiny baby back into the keepers hands! :) Kaylon was very interested, but because we are avid Swamp People watchers was well aware of their biting capabilities and kept his distance. It was just to darn hot for Kolbie to care about anything...

Never really know what is in store when Dana and I are in each others company, but its sure to be a story...a really long story...with no really good explanation as to how it came about!!

Love you Dana!! Thank you for coming to play on the ENTIRE GULF COAST! (haha)

Papa Diz & Miga Visit

2011-07-10T23:25:00.000-05:00

Papa Diz, Miga, and the girls were on their way to Florida and stopped by to see us for the morning. We were so happy to get to see every one especially since we didn't get to see them when we were home a few weeks ago.

We spent the morning at the park, where Kaylon couldn't help himself but to crush hard on Loryn!

and finished the afternoon with a yummy breakfast.

We had fun, thank you for stopping in for a visit! Love y'all!

Cow Appreciation Day

2011-07-08T23:11:00.002-05:00

We LOVE Chick-Fil-A and usually go about once a week. It is one of the indoor activities we have come to love. Playing in the Playplace and lunch all in one. So when the opportunity arose for us show our appreciation, we were there! Honestly, we don't wear much cow print in our house, so I had to be creative and tape some white "cow spots" on our black shirts. Kolbie just wore Zebra for the day:) But hey...it was cute and it got us a free lunch! Can't beat that!

Both of the kids were mesmerized by the cow. Kolbie couldn't keep her eyes off of him, or her fingers out of his nose! She kept mooing every time she caught a glance at him. Kaylon thought the cow was his new best friend and took him on a tour around the restaurant. He gave him lost of hugs and even a kiss on the nose too.

Fun times :)

A Forey 4th of July weekend (Part Two)

2011-07-07T12:12:00.007-05:00

Saturday morning Ryan's Aunt Lori and cousin Courtney showed up to join in the fun. We spent the whole day visiting and doing a little shopping. Ryan cooked us his gourmet "Bobby Flavor Flay" meal that was delicious!

We really didn't have any plans, so Sunday we decided to drive to Dauphine Island (near Mobile, AL) to check out the beach house Rick & Patti rented for their visit in August. After that we decided we could do some more shopping and hit up the local Flea Market, where I have to say...Kaylon and Kolbie scored in the "we really don't need this but its so cheap" toy department :) Aunt Lori and Kolbie made out with the best deal and got a free toy. Probably because they are so cute. Needless to say, the kids were happy campers!

We were all starving by the time we left, so we decided to stop in at Felix's Seafood Restaurant on Mobile Bay, where half of us decided to order the Shrimp and Girts and were in no way disappointed. I think every one except me ordered the Macaroni and Cheese, Cheese, Cheese as their side dish. Yes...You want some! Order both!! :)

Ocean Springs decided to have their fireworks display on Sunday night, and we barely made it to the beach on time and the kids didn't last long before they fell asleep. (No my daughter is not asleep playing in the sand...she is allergic to the camera flash...its impossible!)

The morning of the 4th, we decided we would try out the Champagne Brunch at The Buffet inside the Beau Rivage. Long story short, there were no crab legs so when everyone comes back to visit, we are headed there again...but it was still a delicious buffet :)

My son loves to toast and say "Cheers. "

He made his way around the table more than once.

Kolbie didn't think the tea was sweet enough :)

This time we made it to the beach with plenty of time to play and enjoy the fireworks. Daddy and Pop decided to buy some of our own fireworks to light on the beach while we were waiting for the big show. Everybody else on the beach decided the same thing, so It turned out the "Big Show" was all around us.

The kids did very well with the fireworks. Kolbie would point and say "Ahhh" in her sweet little voice and Kaylon... didn't get hurt.

I just wanted to say THANK YOU to Pop, Noni, Lori, and Courtney for coming to visit and sharing in our fun.

Happy Independence Day everyone!!

(Sidebar: I stumbled on some super cute nail polish for Kolbie at a Boutique in the Beau Rivage...1st time Kolbie has had her toes painted. That's right. They glow in the dark! Cutest toes I have ever seen!)

A Forey 4th of July weekend (Part One)

2011-07-07T11:12:00.006-05:00

We had lots of company for the long holiday weekend, and we couldn't have been more excited to welcome everyone!

Pop & Noni surprised the kids bright and early Thursday morning after they got in late from their flight the night before. We decided to break them in 1st with a "Home Cooked Meal" from The Heritage House. Its a cute little restaurant close to Ryan's office that is owned by a bunch of Grandma's who do everything from cooking to waiting on the tables. Its adorable AND delicious!

Daddy had to rush off to work, so the kids and I took Pop & Noni to the slash park that we love so much. There was a bit of playing in the water, but Kaylon was more focused on giving the grand tour of the entire park! He was so proud to show them around.

Day 2 was designated CIRCUS DAY, so we spent the morning relaxing at the pool wearing the kids out so they would have a good long nap and be ready for the circus.

I have only taken the kids to the pool once this summer and it was not the best experience. They were both nervous and very clingy. Its hard to get anything accomplished when they are both trying to drown you!! We usually stick to the splash pads and water hoses so, I was happy to have Noni & Pop there to help.

To my amazement Kolbie did awesome! She was not afraid one bit. She started jumping in right when we got there and was splashing around and kicking her feet like crazy.

Kaylon on the other hand was terrified the water was going to go in his nose. Silly boy! He was in his comfort zone just playing on the steps for hours. That is until a neighbor friend of our showed up with her 2 year old little boy in floatys. Dallon just ran and jumped in and started swimming all over. We all know my son...he was NOT about to let this boy be bigger than he was, and just like that...all his fear was out the door. He started jumping out to the middle of the pool and swimming all around. I had to call for backup from Pop just because he was being so brave!

My WATER BABIES! (Have I mentioned lately how much I love my waterproof camera? I do, I do!)

After good naps it was finally time to go to the Circus! It was the first time ever Ryan, Kaylon, and Kolbie had ever been to the circus, and the 1st time I had been to a Ringling Bros. circus.

My Big boy was excited to see the Elephants, but when we got inside was surprised to see the Clown, and the horses and the motorcycles.

Kolbie's favorite part was probably the horses and camels. The cats and dogs got her attention too. And of course the Elephants were the stars of the show.

I was so happy to have them experience the circus. It was one of those moments that melts my heart.

Monkey Joe's

2011-06-28T14:24:00.005-05:00

Monkey Joe's is an Indoor Jump House in Ocean Springs that we go to at least once a month. I love it because they can both run wild and there is plenty of staff available to help me keep an eye out when they run separate ways :)

Today we decided to make an afternoon of it, and in the middle of our fun appeared out of nowhere...MONKEY JOE!!

Kaylon turned around to find this big furry fella right behind him, it startled him but only for a split second. He was ecstatic to give him hugs and talk his ear off. He walked around the facility holding his hand. My sweetie boy!

Kolbie was amazed. She looked and looooked at the over sized monkey and just could not figure him out...until he played peek a boo with her! She knew what that was! And then it was time for Hi fives!

I followed them around as they made there way to see all the other kids. Kaylon kept calling his name "Monk Joe, Monk Joe...Mommy...he not hear me!" I had to explain that Monkey Joe was friends with everybody and need to play with them too :) That did not fill his need for Mr. Joe to have to stop and watch him jump and slide! But sufficed as a fill in. He gave him one last hug and posed for a picture.

This was a big test for them because Kaylon and Kolbie have both met Santa and the Easter Bunny, but they were always sitting and being still. Monkey Joe was as animated as they come, hoping around and dancing and giving hi fives. I am SOOOO glad they didn't get scarred. This makes me even MORE excited about the CIRCUS THIS WEEKEND!!!

Mommy and Me TUMBLE- Ocean Springs Playgroup

2011-06-21T15:31:00.005-05:00

Today we decided we would try out our playgroups Mommy and Me Tumble class at Creative Dance studio. I was shocked at how much fun it was. The ladies there did a good job letting the kids feel out the place while still getting lessons in.

Kaylon tumbled...

(Check out my action shot :)

and did the low bar

and showed his muscles on the rings!

Kolbie had to much fun just working her way around the trampoline. And waving of course. She has perfected her "Princess Wave!"

I am so glad I found the Ocean Springs Playgroup when we got out here! Its a great group of ladies and awesome kids. They keep our calendar full with different options to choose from every week. Thank goodness :)

Kolbie

2011-06-20T09:21:00.005-05:00

My angel baby girl, super cute sweetness had morphed into a Wild child, Little Devil, fit throwing sassy britches!

If I didn't know better I would say she is Bi-polar, but truthfully, this girl just knows how to work the crowd. She can smile a sweet sweet smile that can melt your heart and the next second be screaming bloody murder. She still waves to every...single...stranger...that walks by. Of course winning them over in an instant, so when Mommy or Daddy has to spank her hand in public WE look like the bad guys :)

She has gone from a Daddy's girl, where he is the end all knows all twinkle in her eye...to scream my head off for as long as it takes until Mommy picks me up girl. This is a battle all on it own, because she obviously gets her stubbornness from me, so we pretty much come to a stand off most of the time until she gets side tracked (rare) or I just give in and pick her up (usually). The sweet sound of "Ma Ma" has turned into the scary cry of a goat "Maaaaaaaa Maaaaaaa" and forget Da Da...He's Mama too most of the time.

She loves her Big brother, but really she just tolerates his presence. He is way to busy for her laid back lifestyle. She soaks up everything he does, getting in a laugh or 2 at him, and once he has calmed down she will sneak his sword and "get you!" She makes the sweetest little sword fighting sound your ears have ever heard. She especially loves to "fly to the moon" on one of our shoulders while we run around the house and the screams come out when her turn is over!

An animal lover is understatement of the year when it comes to Kolbie. The presence of any kind of animal excites her to the core. She cant help herself but to get all the puppy kisses she can when she sees one. Big or small, she's not scared of anything. It melts my heart to see the pure innocents of her and an animal.

She is also book worm. Love love LOVES to sit and study ever single thing on every page of a book. It doesn't even have to be a book. A card, a mail flyer, the cheez-it box. Its all very interesting to her.

Her new found love in the toy box has been the discovery of Mardi Gras beads. She loves to walk around in them. When we are in any store she can zone in on the jewelry section. Daddy is very nervous about this :)

She is still my petite little sweet thing...just now with retractable horns!

- She is still wearing 6-12 months clothes, sometimes 12-18 months, and sometime 3-6 months...

-She loves to dance to the music, even if its just a commercial... when the music is on, her hips are swaying.

-She loves to carry lovies. Her favorite one is her Piggy Scentsy Pal. She sleeps with it every night.

- She is my garbage disposal. This girl will eat anything, so long as its not green!

- I can not keep her sippy cup full, Her fluid intake is immense.

-She can say "I love you"...well "Eye Youuuuuu" while pointing. We are still working on the love part.

-She loves to show you her belly button, and when she is wearing a romper, she raises her hands in the cutest way to say "i don't know" because she cant find it

-she is super ticklish all over, and turns into a giggle monster in anticipation of being tickled.

-If you can't find her just look in her covers. If she hasn't put herself to bed, then she is probably playing in the toilet!

Kaylon

2011-06-20T08:12:00.005-05:00

He is my Super Hero, My Knight in Shinning Armour, and the designated Dragon Slayer!

His imagination keeps our house on it toes! He has more dress up clothes in the toy box than Kolbie does :) He LOVES his sister, and forces her to play with him by tackling her from the back side. Its more of a WWF arms around the neck and body slam, than a tackle per say...but regardless it gets a scream out of her.

My Kaylon is as sweet as he can be on most days, but lately has been testing his boundaries with ignoring even the simplest of tasks that are requested of him. I explain to him after he spends countless minutes in the corner or time out and finally completes the task, that...Mommy ALWAYS wins! Although it has been getting pretty though to handle sometimes, I know my persistence is what will make the difference in molding him into a person he can be proud of.

Just in the last week he has decided to tackle the potty chair, and he is doing SO well! I bought it 6 months ago, and introduced it to him, but never pushed it. 7 days ago today he decided his diaper is what was causing his hiney to hurt (...not the endless amounts of diarrhea he was having.) I told him he didn't have to wear the diaper anymore if he made sure to put his pee pee's in the potty chair, because "I do not want to be cleaning up any pee pee mess!" And that was it! He is so proud every time he goes that he will carry the potty chair all around the house to find one of us so he can show off his accomplishments. We still put a diaper on at night and sometimes during nap time. He rarely has a mess, and when he does...its one of those moments where he is mad and does it deliberately. My sweet boy you ask? Oh yes...he has the spite in him...he must get that from his Daddy :)

We are used to playing outside every day for at least an hour but usually more. Now that it is June I have noticed his intolerance to handle the heat become a lot more prevalent. When we arrive to the park, he doesn't even want to get out of the car a lot of the time. Even when we are playing in the front "yard" after about 30 min outside, he will take himself inside to cool off. I try to make "water play" available in everything we do, but sometimes its hard to convince him to do even that. He has become completely content with staying inside out of the heat. I can't blame him for that. At 100 degrees it feels like a sauna to me, I cant imagine what it feels like to him, when your body doesn't have the ability to cool its self off. He seems to be old enough to know when he's getting to hot. Thankfully we have not had any fainting episodes so far this year.

Plans for his 3rd birthday Cookie Monster party are in full swing. Ryan will not be able to get back to Houston with us for his party, so we will be here to celebrate with Daddy and have him a party back home in October.

My sweet boy is getting so tall, and so grown up.

- We just had to restock his summer wardrobe with size 3T because the 2T just isn't long enough.

-His favorite songs to sing are "Oh, Happy Day" and "I Love You" from Barney.

-His favorite toy right now is his sword (accompanied by any one of his many masks/helmets.)

-He can count to 10 with out any help (Usually)

-He can find every dragon in the house! Watch out, there is ALWAYS one hiding under the bed!

Texas for a week!

2011-06-12T09:58:00.000-05:00

We decided it would be best to separate the kids for a while when we got home, thinking that they may be passing this virus back and forth to each other. Pop was off for a few days so he and Noni picked up Kaylon when we made it back to Texas. I got a few texts messages from Pop letting me know he was doing fine and filing me in on how much fun they were having. Kolbie and I stayed at Grammys house a couple of nights and had quality girl time. We weren't very busy and didn't get out much because I was still weary of them getting sick.

I took Kolbie for her 1 year check up (I know, only 4 months late!) I would love to update her stats but for the life of me I can't find that paper anywhere...

Anyway...The doctor said she looked great and was growing right on target. She was a little concerned she might be underweight, but I filled her in on the last months episodes and Kaylon's hospital ordeal. She thought they both needed to start a probiotic and if it didn't solve any

problems it definitely wouldn't hurt them to have it. She said after a few days of that she didn't see any problem bringing them back into the public.

We manged to get some play time in at Pirates Bay, which was a real treat. We started going there last summer and made plans to go once a week before we found out we were moving to MS. Mema, GG, Aunt Meag, Aunt B, Kinzie, and Cameron made it to the water park with us this trip and it was so much fun!

You would not believe that I started having car trouble while we were home. My car battery kept dying on me and Saturday when we were supposed to be at Jenna and TJ's wedding, we were stranded in Crosby waiting for Mema to come rescue us while my car was in the shop. Thankfully it was just the battery that needed replacing and we made it to the wedding right on time, which was kind of important seeing as how I was taking the pictures.

The wedding was really sweet.

Welcome to this crazy family TJ and Congratulations to you both!

We originally had plans to stay until tuesday, but I was having major husband withdraws so I decided we would leave early Sunday morning. I loaded the kids up at 3 am and made it back to MS in record time...5 1/2 hours! I told you I wanted to get back, and don't worry...I was driving at the posted speed limits, I promise.

We really hated not being able to see everyone like we planned, but I have come to the realization the "home" is where my husband is. I'm glad to be back in his company :) Adios Texas, see you October!

Kaylon in the Hospital

2011-06-06T08:47:00.002-05:00

As you know my babies have been very very sick with a tummy bug that just wont go away. After seeing the doctor about a week ago to no avail, we decided to take him back in for a 2nd opinion. At this point he had been having nasty poops for 20+ days and vomiting nearly every night for 14 days. We met with Dr. Dupont and she decided it was pretty urgent to admit him to the hospital to try and figure out what was going on.

I was pretty upset that I let it get this far. I felt like I had been giving them both plenty of fluids to try and keep them hydrated. I had taken milk and dairy foods out of their diet completely. Kolbie's tummy wasn't half as bad as Kaylon's. She was having nasty diapers just as long, but only threw up once the entire time, and I could not keep her sippy cup full. Kaylon on the other hand, I offered and offered drinks to him, and he would take some every now and again, but it obviously wasn't enough.

When we got to the hospital, the orders were already there waiting on us to start his fluids. The IV i had anticipated was going to be a bad deal for both of us. The doctor suggested that we not even be in the room when they put it in. YEAH RIGHT! Ryan and I were both there. It took us both plus 4 other nurses to hold him down to get it in. He was fatigued already so that fight just wore him right out and he slept pretty much the rest of the night. They had to wake him up again to draw blood out of the other arm which made me PRETTY UPSET! I thought they should have drawn the blood out of the IV port before they started running the fluids. But I'm not a nurse, I guess they had there reasons. We made sure they understood they had one shot to get it and draw all they needed because it wasn't happening again. Daddy stayed with us and got a little sleep on the couch bench in the room and I tried to rest in the bed with Kaylon.

After the 1st bag of fluid he still had not wet his diaper, so they started another bag of fluid. By morning (5AM) he had perked up quite a bit. He thought he was being spoiled by getting all the popsicles he wanted for breakfast.

He was became very interested in his IV and I think he started to realize that is what was making him feel better. He wanted to walk around, so we ventured out of the room a few times to let him stretch his legs. We had waited all night to hear the results of his blood work and the x-rays. The doctor came in for just a minute that morning to say she was being pulled into a delivery and would wait to discuss all the result with us in the afternoon. So Ryan went home to spend some time with Kolbie and Grammy came up to the hospital. We hated that the kids had to be sick when Grammy was out to visit, but we were sure happy to have her here with Kolbie so we both could be with Kaylon.

After the 2nd bag of fluid he finally started to wet his diaper. That was very good news.

When the doctor finally made it in she informed us that ALL the test she had run were negative and didn't show any infections or virus in his blood. His x-ray showed he had no fluid built up in his lungs which was a concern since he had been vomiting so much. Ironically he had not thrown up or had a dirty diaper the entire time we were there. She came to the conclusion that he must have gotten a bad virus (like Rotovirus) that put his body of balance and he couldn't get back on track. She still wanted to test a stool sample, but said that he could eat and if he didn't throw anything up, he could go home. Thankfully Ryan had brought Kolbie up to the hospital by that time and Dr. Dupont agreed that the stool sample could come from Kolbie since she had been having the same symptoms.

Kaylon was hungry but was not the least bit interested in the cafeteria food that was sent in. After only eating a couple of crackers and toast one of the nurses went on a special run just fir him to get him some chicken nuggets and french fries! I'm not sure if they wanted to see him go home or just me, but either way...he ate them up. After an hour, there was no throw up and we Kolbie Michelle came through with a nasty diaper! So we were on our way home!

Kolbie had no problem eating hospital food!

Of course the 1st hour we were home Kaylon made 2 super nasty diapers, so I called the doctor and she said she was happy with just testing Kolbie's and that we would hear from her Sunday morning before we headed back to Texas.

Kaylon ended up sleeping the entire afternoon from 5pm until 4:20 the next morning but woke up my bright and shinny boy and being extra generous with all his hugs and kisses!

Saturday night was a different story, he started throwing up again at 4am Sunday morning, so I went ahead and put a call in to the doctor. Said the stool sample didnt show any signs of the 5 virus' she checked for and she was comfortable with us headed back to Texas and recommended we follow up with our Pediatrician back home.

It was a pretty stressful situation, but I am thankful that he was there. I really had no idea he was as dehydrated as he was. So even though we didn't get a definitive diagnosis, they did resolve the dehydration so we are headed back to Texas for a week!

Grammy Comes to visit- Part 2

2011-06-05T16:22:00.001-05:00

Fort Maurpeas Play Ground and Splash Park

Probably our favorite park here in Ocean Springs. We go to this park at least once a week if not more. The plan for today was just a quick visit so we could get the kids out for a bit.

I don't know why I thought I could keep them off the splash pad! Oh well... spontaneous fun!

Thurdsay and Friday

Since we have been battling sick babies for quite a while, the doctor decided to admit Kaylon to the hospital. More details to follow....

Red, White, and Blueberry Festival

For Grammy's last day in MS we decided to go our for a cozy breakfast on the courtyard. Yummy Yummy french toast, if I do say so myself!

More water! My kids are just drawn to it!!

Ocean Springs is surrounded by several small blueberry farms, so they had a local festival to celebrate. Tons of Blueberry goodies all around. We didn't stay long though because we had to get my poor babies out of that heat!

Grammy, Thank You so much for coming to visit us for a WHOLE week! We can't wait for you to come back! (we will do our best to stay out of the hospital next time :)

Grammy Comes to visit- Part 1

2011-06-05T15:28:00.006-05:00

We have been in Mississippi for 2 full months now, so Grammy decided she needed to get some Kaylon and Kolbie love. We did our best staying busy...

The kids LOVE to play out side with the neighborhood "friends." It is lots of fun for us to just sit out and watch them run around having fun.

Daddy brought a special surprise home from work and they have had as much fun with this box as they have with real toys!

St. Andrew Park and Splash Pad

During our outdoor activities I always try to incorporate some kind of water play. We have an awesome park that has 2 covered playground areas and a LARGE splash pad. I was excited to show this find off to Ryan so he can see for himself what we do during the days he is at work. It was Sunday before Memorial Day but decided to go any way despite the crowd were were expecting. We hit the drive thru to supply our "picnic" and spent the afternoon splashing

around. We were the ONLY people there for most of the time, and only a handful of people

ventured in and out. Another reason why I love this place!

Pensacola, Florida

So beautiful. It was interesting because Kaylon and Kolbie have both been battling a stomach bug and Kaylon woke up a little grumpy from his nap, but we were determined to have fun! The beaches are so beautiful there its hard not too! After a few hours in the sun, we of course had to visit the Souvenir Shop and ate some delicious food on the Boardwalk.

Indoor Day- FREE Puppy Kisses!

This was a great find! My kids are animal lovers...ESPECIALLY Kolbie! We have a local pet shop that will let you come in and play with their animals. It helps get them out of the cages and have a little extra play time too.

They were both so excited to play with the puppies. Kaylon loved to throw them the toy and play tug. Kolbie was just happy as she could be getting tons of puppy kisses.

Definitely going to have to go back there soon! An awesome way to wear out a couple of toddlers!

Sick Babies

2011-05-27T07:14:00.002-05:00

7 nights ago...some nasty bug found its way into my children's tummies. I don't know where they got it...but I am ready for it to go!

They both started out with nasty diapers ( I will spare you the details :) that I thought was just from moving and getting settled in. Then Kaylon screamed from his room in the middle of the night for me to arrive with him and his entire bed covered in vomit! He hung his head over the toilet SIX more times that night. BUT when he woke up the next morning he was fine. Played hard...even ran a mile with us over the bridge! That night...after he had slept for a few hours, same thing...just less of it. Woke up that morning ready to play! I don't get it! Finally the 3rd night I called the doctor and scheduled an appointment of course for the next day. I was leaning towards reflux since he was fine during the day. Poor baby would tell me "Mommy, my tummy hurts" and "My tummy sad." After trying some Tums, he said his tummy didn't hurt any more and he didn't have any episodes that night. So we cancelled that doctors appointment. BIG MISTAKE!

Kolbie on the other hand, other than going through a case of dirty diapers in a week has been fine. No signs of anything.

All until yesterday. For lack of better words...a hell broke loose at our house. Kolbie had projectile vomit at dinner and Kaylon was up hugging the toilet all night.

Off to the doctor we went. Kolbie was following the same routine as her brother and looked and felt fine by morning. The doctor determined that Kaylon had a stomach bug (duh:)...gastroenteritis is what he named it and warned me to hang in there that he still had a few more days of it left to endure. Of course, there is nothing they can do for a virus but treat the symptoms so we got a prescription for his nausea and diarrhea. Kolbie wasn't showing any signs at the appointment so he instructed to bring her in if she shows any other signs.

As the day went on, Kaylon was his cheery spastic 2 year old self, but Kolbie was clingy and restless and did not eat a bite of food all day long. This child is not my daughter. I had decided I was going to call the doctor today about her, but ...

last night about 5:30 a few red spots showed up on her. Ryan has seen a few on her tummy the night before, but we just brushed it off as some kind of skin irritation or possible flea bites. At 5:3o she had less than 10. By 6 those dots had turned into whelps, so I gave her some Benedryl. By 7 she was covered in them. So of to the Urgent Care Center we go. Immediately upon arriving to the office, her tummy decides to explode out of her diaper...I was so embarrassed, but thankfully we were the only ones there. So, she gets seen and it is determined she has a severe case of gastroenteritis also known as Rotovirus. Thankfully she is in the last stages of it because in most cases if there is a rash it means they are no longer contagious. Apparently the rash looks worse than it really is. (I'll never understand that!) The general consensus was that it usually last 10 days, so for me to stay on top of it because she still has a few days left of it. ( Where have I heard that before?? Oh yeah...just 8 hours ago at the doctors office!!)

Plans for the next 3 to 5 days.

-Stay at home

-Drink LOTS of fluids

-NO DAIRY

-restock on diapers

-Lysol EVERYWHERE

-discover new indoor activities to keep 2 toddlers busy

oh yes...and Welcome Grammy to MS on Saturday morning with a gas mask!

Pray for us...

Pictures I just have to share!

2011-05-25T08:34:00.004-05:00

Our 1st MS visitors

2011-05-16T07:24:00.004-05:00

My mom and sisters decided they would come down last weekend and spend a few days with us here in MS. I can't believe we have been here a month already.

Ryan had to work Friday, so we packed up and spent the morning at the beach.

I'll never figure out why, but I guess Kaylon thinks all the sand belongs in the water. He spends the entire time getting the sand and throwing it in the ocean. Then he realized that Aunt Meag, GG and Aunt B didn't want the sand on them...so mission diverted to throwing as much sand on them as possible.

Kolbie only spent a few minutes in the sand before she decided she didn't want to be dirty. So GG got to tote her highness around.

After the beach and a good nap, we decided we would go get our 1st snow cones of the season!

What a mess but OHHHHH so yummy! Daddy met us after work at the SnowBall shop so he could witness the adorable messyness.

Since Mama and the girls were available we jumped on our chance for our 1st date night in over 2 months. So everyone headed home for dinner and a bath while we headed out for dinner and a movie.

Ryan tried to surprise me and take me to Michaels to buy and attachment for my sewing machine that I have been wanting but was totally disappointed when I told him Michaels doesnt carry many sewing supplies...but a very sweet thought, wasn't it!

For dinner I decided we would go to The Fried Green Tomato for a "home" cooked meal and Ryan decided he would sit through a chick flick with me (Something Borrowed...HIGHLY recommended :) Then we finished off the night with a couple of drinks at Ruby Tuesdays.

It was sooo nice to have some time to ourselves minus 2 children for a few hours.

SATURDAY

So, I forgot my camera pretty much the rest of the weekend, but Saturday we decided we would treat ourselves to The Buffet at the Beau Rivage and after we ate ourselves sick we ventured out for a 3 mile walk across the Biloxi Bay Bridge.

Saturday night we hung around outside while Ryan prepared us a delicious dinner of Smoked Pork Chops, baked beans, and potato salad. Yum!

In lieu of a birthday cake I opted for a trip to the cupcake shop. Oh la la! Mine was Strawberry limeade, Ryan got Coconut Dream, Meagan enjoyed Sour Cream, Mom got her Prozac, Brittanee picked cookies and cream, and the kids got Old Faithful minis. All I have to say is thank goodness for that walk earlier :)

Sunday morning when everybody was dresses and ready to go except for us, Kaylon sensed something was happening. He kept telling them to "Stay at my house!," but when went outside to wave them bye and it broke his heart. He was pretty pitiful there for about 30 seconds before crisis was diverted by helping me clean out my car! Haha! Silly boy!

It was a great visit and we can't wait for them to come back!

(Sidebar: We have had some geese at the pond in the neighboor hood that have been missing for a little while, while everyone was here visiting they decided to show back up! And look who they brought with them...

BABIES!!! So cute:)

A Mother's Day

2011-05-09T09:55:00.005-05:00

My days are filled with constant companionship of 2 tiny blessings made especially for me. I look at them and my heart aches with love. I often wonder what I did with my time before they came along! Whatever it was, it would never measure up to the joy and fulfillment I get from witnessing Kaylon giving his sister hugs and kisses while she is in time out or Kolbie stealing one of Kaylon's favorite toys and hiding it in the toilet. It will never get old accepting the compliments of perfect strangers on how beautiful my children are and how they can bring out a smile and brighten anyones day. Seeing the wheels turning in their heads as they figure something out for the first time is overwhelming joy.

Being a Mom is my proudest accomplishment.

To the Emergecny Room we go!

2011-05-01T12:11:00.002-05:00

Daddy had just fired up the grill and we were getting settled in for a nice afternoon outside. The kids were playing in the driveway when Kolbie decided to make her way up the steps to the front door, which she had done time and time again, the only difference is she was eating and apple. Instead of watching where she was going, she had her eyes glued to that big juicy apple! She didn't even make it up the 1st step. She slipped on that one and knocked her mouth on the second step. Ryan and I were both only a foot away and saw it happen in slow motion, but neither of us could get there fast enough.

I yanked her up and started hugging her, but in that instant she wasn't crying. She is a tough girl. I pulled her back to get a look and there was so much blood. She was crying so hard she wasn't making any noise.

I ran inside to get a towel and put some ice on it, which of course she didn't like. It was bleeding so bad we couldn't even get a look at. We had to tag team it, while Ryan held her, I wiped the blood away to see an ENORMOUS gash just below her lip. Her mouth was full of blood, so we tried to rinse that out and saw that the cut was clean through. Four of her bottom teeth had cut clean through her lip.

Daddy had already grabbed up Kaylon and the keys and we were out the door for the Emergency Room. She was so hysterical and bleeding so bad that I didn't even attempt to put her in her car seat, so I buckled us both up in the front seat. Half way there,we turned right in front of a Police officer who couldn't help but notice our car driving slightly over the speed limit.

He followed us all the way to the hospital before he decided to let us go. Thank goodness! That would have just put a cherry right on top of my panic attack.

Once we got in to the ER, Kolbie turned right back into her old self again. She was waving and smiling a bloody smile to all the nurses. She had them swooning over her. They got us right back, and not long after the doctor was in. She was working her magic on him until he decided to touch her lip and remind her she had a bo bo. After he checked her out, he determined she could definatley use a couple stiches, but decided he would attempt to use the Dermabond (super glue) 1st to see if it would hold it together.

While we were waiting for the doctor and nurses to return for the procedure, she got some comforting love from her Daddy. Kaylon kept himself busy playing with surgical gloves and pushing all the buttons.

Look at my happy baby covered in blood. Even her poor bow was ruined :(

I was holding it together pretty well, but I was a crazy mess on the inside. Then the anticipation of her the pain she was about to endure through her procedure almost made me pass out. But when the doctor came back in and was ready to go, I got all up in his business. I had to hold her hands and feet while she was screaming and trying to kick. I watched him glue her back together making sure he lined up just right. That is when I noticed she was missing one of her top teeth! I pointed it out to the doctor, when he realized the tooth was still attached it was just stuck on the inside of her top lip. Seeing him stretch her sore and swollen lip to release the tooth was gut wrenching for me. Way worse than gluing her back together. I still can't believe she was smiling and waving all the while she had a tooth stuck in her top lip. I told you she was a tough girl!

Anyway...prognosis is, keep it clean and dry (haha, yeah right!) and it should be nice and healed from the inside out. The ER doc was happy with the result of the glue and doesn't seem to think she will be left with any scar at all. Whew! In less than 2 hours from her fall we were fixed and back home. (Never would that happen back home!)

She had a good night, and this morning she acted like it didn't even bother her. She gets pretty upset when she cant suck out of her sippy cup or even a straw. And she is too much of an eater to stick with yogurt and pudding, so she toughed it through a biscuit and grits for breakfast. She has been trying to pull the glue off her chin and has busted the inside wound open and bleeding a couple of times, but that was to be expected. Kaylon was worried about her last night but he is pretty much over it by now.

I am so proud of the way they both handled the whole event. I just knew Kaylon was going to be our 1st reason for rushing to the ER, but what do I know!!

Walking!

2011-04-29T21:15:00.006-05:00

Reading back I noticed I neglected to mention a HUGE life changing milestone in the Forey house. KOLBIE IS WALKING!

Its hard for me to say an exact day she took her 1st steps. She took her sweet time figuring out how to do it just right. for a couple of days she would just soot her one foot forward. Then we caught her taking 2 steps here and there. Then for a good week she would get up to six or seven steps before she would fall down and resort back to her speed racer crawling technique.

It has really been in the last 2 or 3 weeks that she has really found her legs. She is such a stiff and awkward walker, I get the giggles just watching her get from point A to B. But she is oh so proud of herself!! There is no stopping her now! Her new favorite thing is getting one of Big brothers favorite toys...rubbing it in his face thats she's got it...then fast as she can take off running in the other direction! Giggling and laughing the whole way...while her brother squeals and tattles on her of course!

Easter Weekend

2011-04-24T20:44:00.000-05:00

It was a lot different for us this year, because we are so used to being surrounded by family and friends on Easter Sunday, to spend it with just the four of us was unusual, but we made the best of it!

1st the Gandma Baskets were delivered in Saturday!

Grammy sent a box full of goodies with us from Texas and we did good not opening it until today :)

It was filled with lots of Buzz Lightyear goodies, snacks, books, babydolls, and clothes!

Thank you Grammy!

We picked up a box at the Post Office from Pop and Noni on Saturday

It was filled with lots of Easter goodies including NEW LOVIES (Our favorite Scentsy Buddies!)

Thank you Pop & Noni!

We received cards from GG on friday and the kids (Kaylon mostly) was surprised to find some Easter money! It was a learning experience to teach him we were going to buy something special with it later. Now he tells me "I'll buy it Mom!"...but then he goes for my wallet!

Thank you GG!

We were feeling the love sent all the way from everybody back in Texas!

EASTER DAY

I think Mom and Dad ended up more excited about the Easter Bunny coming than the kids were! They woke up and took their time making their way down the stairs and stumble upon their baskets full of Easter love.

Kaylon IMMEDIATELY saw his new Buzz Lightyear toy, and Kolbie...she just wanted the candy!

After baskets and breakfast, we planned on having our own mini egg hunt next to the pond in the neighbor hood. So I got the kids dressed up while Daddy "hid" the eggs.

We could not BRIBE them to pick up those eggs! They both knew their was a prize waiting inside, so they each got one and opened it. Forget the rest! Daddy ended up hunting his own eggs! (But at least I got these adorable shots of my sweet babies!)

I hope everyone had a blessed Easter! Sending our love from Mississippi! XOXO!

A Day at the Beach

2011-04-24T11:55:00.005-05:00

We spent a gorgeous day at the beach for the 1st time this year. The kids were both excited when we got there. 15 minutes after playing in the sand in the water, Kolbie realized she was dirty and could not get clean. She was furious about it! Kaylon, on the other hand, play for 2 hours in the salty water and cool sand until he decided to nearly drown in a foot of water. After that, he was done:) Can't blame him.

The beaches here are nothing compared to the ones back home. It was like we were on vacation.

I was nervous to see if I could handle them both in the environment by myself while Ryan is at work, but I've pretty much decided to make a trip to the beach a weekly adventure. Can't wait to get back.

How Daddy spends his days off...

2011-04-16T20:22:00.000-05:00

Egg Hunt at Little Childrens Park, Ocean Springs, MS

2011-04-16T19:53:00.003-05:00

Can I just start out by saying how much we love it here? We do. Love it! And one of our favorite places is Little Children's Park in Ocean Springs, so when I heard they were having an Easter Egg hunt...we were all over it!

We were not sure what to expect of a public egg hunt after last years attempt in League City. It was an experience for sure, but there was no egg hunting involved.

It was sooo different this year. We arrived early like the flyer suggested and the kids were able to join in some of the games and play at the park. they even handed out canvas Easter bags for the kids to color while they were waiting for the egg hunt to begin.

When it was just about time to begin they had all the kiddos 2 and under line up and at the end of the countdown they were allowed to cross the barrier. That was more fun for some of them then getting the eggs! Kaylon was super excited to tackle the unauthorized area but didn't quite understand what the fuss was about putting the eggs in his basket...that was until of course he figured out they were filled with goodies! Then he would get one, open it, take the goodies, and trash the egg back on the ground :)

Kolbie, on the other hand, is my pack rat. She had her designated area where she meticulously picked up each egg and placed them in her basket. When there were no more eggs...well, then she strategically placed them all back on the grass for her re load back in her basket :)

Once all the eggs were gone, Daddy had to check each one to see if they had a winning ticket. Ours didn't but we didn't mind. We won a piece of pirate treasure and an airplane eraser, and a bunny ring!! Whoo hoo!!

It was such a peaceful and pleasureful egg hunting experience and the kids had a blast.

My cup runith over :)

Visiting with the Easter Bunny!!

2011-04-15T19:01:00.004-05:00

We headed out to spend the day at the mall in Mobile, AL and the first thing when we walked in the door was the Easter BUNNY! (I don't know where my brain was but I didn't even think about seeing him there...otherwise we would have dresses a little better :)

Kaylon was beside himself running up to him and hugging on him. He immediately started talking to him and rubbing on his soft fur. Kolbie took a little longer to get warmed up. She just smiled and starred for a good little while and taking small little steps to inch herself closer to the furry thing. We were there bright and early and were the only ones in line so we got plenty of solo time with him.

Picture time Kolbie was a smiley girl as always. Kaylon was too busy talking to him to take a break and look at the camera. He was kind of shocked when the "Bunny Helper" went and positioned his arms, removed his Iron Man mask and pointed his head to look at the camera, and this is the resulting photo :) He looks terrified! I promise...he was thrilled! After we left and headed to some other shops all he could do was talk about seeing the Easter Bunny again. Until we stumbled on to the Disney Store where a Toy Store display was front and center showing off the new hero in our house Buzz Lightyear! It felt like we were in that store for an hour touching everything with the Spaceman's face on it. To my surprise he didn't even notice the display with all the Iron Man memorabilia! Kolbie enjoyed the Toy Story display just as much while unpacking and repacking all the red sparkly Jesse boots! To get him out the door I had to coax him BACK TO THE EASTER BUNNY!! Getting him out empty handed was the true task! He wanted to take the Buzz action figure to show the Bunny Man what was on his wish list for his Basket. Crazy boy :)

I can't wait to see what the Bunny bring my sweet boy and angel baby girl...

Welcome to our new home...

2011-04-09T11:51:00.002-05:00

We found out a couple of weeks ago that Ryan's job was going to be transferring him back to Mississippi, and of course I wasn't going to let him leave us behind. He was here for a year, and I joined him for about 6 months when I was pregnant with Kaylon. We stayed in Ocean Springs last time and loved the area so much that we were happy for the opportunity to go back. We have tossed up the idea of moving back several times, but family is was keeps us in Texas.
We have always wondered if we would love it the same if we were ever to go back...Now we get to find out! We are especially excited because Ryan has been working so much and this move will allow him weekends off like a normal job for a while! A big change for us!

Taking the kids from their home and moving them 2 states away from everything they know made me a little nervous but I had the most anxiety about the 6 1/2 hour car ride. ( If I don't time it just right the little 1 to 1 1/2 hour road trips to Katy, LaMarque, and Orange can be torture.)

We were invited for Ryan's favorite breakfast made by Aunt KK in Dayton friday morning and decided we would hang around and wear the kids out so the 1st leg of the road trip would be napping.

We ended up leaving Dayton right at 1pm and Kolbie quickly fell asleep, but Kaylon...decided he would watch an entire movie of Barney before he would shut his eyes (Of course by then Kolbie was awake :(

We lucked out and was made it to our 1st scheduled stop at Don's Meat market in Lafayette,LA with out to much fussing. After about 30 minutes of stretching our legs, grabbing a bite to eat, and filling an ice chest of the delicious Cajun meats we were back on the road. Of course we had to catch rush hour traffic just at the right time in Baton Rouge that set us back a little but then about 40 miles to the MS border all of I-10 came to a complete stop. We sat there with our engines turned off for 10-15 minutes. This was complete torture for me because I couldn't get the kids out of their chairs because we were on the highway and the DVD player was messing up.

After that fiasco they fell asleep and we decided to skip our 2nd scheduled stop and just head for the rental house. We arrived about 8:45pm. 6 and a half hour ride pushed to almost 8 (with a little break in between) all in all wasn't very bad. I was very happy with the trip and the insignificant amount of whining that occurred.

We decided to stay in the same complex as before, so we rented a fully furnished 3 bedroom townhouse with a garage to fit all the play toys.
Once we arrived Ryan decided everything needed to come out of the cars, so we got in gear and he and his helper got everything in the house and me and my little helper got everything in its place.

Kolbie helping Mommy unpack the kitchen.

Kaylon making his 100th trip up the stairs helping Daddy unpack.

We are sad to be so far from everyone back home but very excited about being somewhere new and all the experiences ahead.

Texas Bluebonnets

2011-04-07T23:05:00.001-05:00

One last thing I had to check off my list before we headed to Mississippi was seeing the Bluebonnets. I was on a mission all week to find a cute spot that wasn't ridiculously far away. Usually there are small patches everywhere but none large enough for a photo op. We have been in need of rain so the Bluebonnet population all over was dwindling quickly. Thankful we found this cute little spot on the side of hwy 1008 in Dayton. Just big enough for me to get my fix. Of course...because I have 2 toddlers on my hands, at this precises moment they had no interest in enjoying the beautiful flowers. I didn't get a smile out of either one, but I didn't care. I was getting my pictures anyway!

This one turned out half way decent of my usually smiley girl pitching a fit!

My son on the other hand has mastered they art of avoiding the camera. I was lucky to get this shot. (Usually I can only catch the back or top of his head!)

We were happy to have Grammy join us in our quest to find the Bluebonnets before we left the next morning. Of course Kaylon wasn't going to join in this picture and Kolbie was patiently avoiding it as well.

At least I got my way! We saw the Bluebonnets and I have pictures to prove it!

Fair-well TEXAN's! We are gonna y'all!

Strawberry Picking

2011-04-06T15:39:00.003-05:00

(Click on photo to enlarge)

After going to the Blueberry farm last year, I have been anxiously awaiting to take the kids strawberry picking. Thankfully we had the opportunity to go 2 days before we left for Mississippi. It was very cute when we first got there we were showing them both how to pick them off the bush and put them in the bucket. They didn't even recognize that they could eat them until Daddy re introduced them to the luscious fruit (that we had just had for a snack the day before :) Then the picking was over...they both ate until they could fit no more in their swollen tummies. Kaylon would pick one, turn around and sit directly on the bush to enjoy his. And, Kolbie...she thought they tasted best straight off the bush! No picking involved for her, just the eating!

Just before the farm closed Pop and Noni (Ryan's Dad and Step-Mom) were able to join us. We filled 2 buckets, bought some of the best homemade fried fruit pies and Strawberry Peach Preserves and then enjoyed the rest of the evening in LaMarque vising before we had to leave for MS.

After eating so much on the farm, my sweet children turned in to sweet strawberries!!

We can't wait to do it again next year!

GG comes to play

2011-04-03T16:44:00.002-05:00

GG and Aunt B were out to visit so we grabbed some Subway and went for a picnic at the park.

Kaylon had a case of the giggles!

My son refuses to smile for the camera anymore!

Then we went to feed the ducks. This was Kolbie's first time being allowed on the ground with them. She sure wanted to touch.

Why is it always one bite for you and two for me when it comes to my kids and bread! I think they ate more than the ducks!

It was a fun afternoon for everyone!

My Best Good Friend =)

2011-04-03T16:29:00.002-05:00

Periodically one of my very favorite friends comes to visit us Forey's. This weekend was a special treat because she skipped out on a family fishing trip to come hang out with us, since it was the last opportunity before our temporary relocation to Mississippi. We didn't do anything special. She was my handy assistant in Splendora for Picture Day then we hung out on the back porch while Ryan made us dinner. We are pro's at doing a bunch of nothing and still having a good ole time!

Playing in Splendora

2011-04-02T22:43:00.001-05:00

Jenna & TJ asked me to come play "Picture Day" for them at there house. I have to say...I am very proud of the way the photos turned out.

(Had to throw one in for TJ!)

I am totally jealous how photogenic they are. I was even complaining to them how jealous I was that Ryan and I don't even have pictures like these.

(Watch out baby...we may just be playing picture day real soon! :)

If you want to see more photo's from our picture day click here.

So...in between picture posing the kids got to have a little fun too. Kaylon had been eying the go cart all day, so TJ obliged and took him for a ride. Kaylon had his cheesy grin plastered all over his face. He was beside himself, having so much fun on that thing. Kolbie...not so much. She went for a ride too, but was more concerned then happy I think.

Iron man has his moments of transformation into a cowboy on his down time. At all times Kaylon is one or the other. He lately he has been running around with his cowboy boots and hat saying "I'm a Cowboy Baby!". Thankfully I was in the presence of Cowboy today, because Jenna & TJ have a neighbor down the street that had their horse tied up in the front yard and we couldn't pass up the opportunity to say hello.

All three of the kids were checking out "Sweat Pea" from head to toe, the wheels in their brains just turning with curiosity. Kaylon kept thinking he could ride it. We didn't want to wear out our welcome, so after a good 5 or 10 minutes we said good bye to Ms. Seat Pea.

Thank you Jenna, Kinzie, and TJ for letting us come play and I hope you love your pictures as much as I do!

Spring Break Staycation- An Ashby Visit

2011-03-31T15:21:00.004-05:00

We were happy to have the Ashby's come visit before we leave for Mississippi. These to are a handful together. We are never quite sure when they are playing or fighting! They both put on a show for us...Stevie on one guitar and Kaylon on the air guitar. They were both jammin! (So were their Daddy's, sorry to say I don't have a picture of that!)

AJ had her hands full playing with Kolbie and Aunt Meag the whole time.

Before too long, Adria had Kaylon running around the back yard without a diaper on trying to show him how to go pee pee outside. He was loving it! He was pushing so hard to make pee pee come out, Mommy had a mess to clean on the other end!

Stevie decided he was going to make pee pee in the toilet and teach Kaylon how to "sword fight!" Oh the joys of raising BOYS!

Quote from Stevie "Kaylon is my BFF!"

Thank you Ashby's for coming to play!

Spring Break Staycation- Park & Kite Flying

2011-03-30T10:39:00.004-05:00

We decided we would take the kids to Bay Area Park to play and feed the ducks, and have our 1st attempt at flying a kite.

Kolbie Michelle being a big girl trying to climb over the curb.

Of course she crashed on the landing!

Sliding with Aunt B

( I don't know what is with the tongue, but it is always out anymore!)

Daddy helping Kaylon with the balance beam.

Hanging around!

Another crash!

(Don't worry..Daddy caught him on the monkey bars, he crashed after trying to jump off the tire maze)

Daddy and Kaylon flying the kite.

(It seemed to be a bunch of running around for both of them, and not so much flying...)

Kolbie getting an A+ in observation!

Feeding the ducks?

The ducks were no where to be found that day, so instead he played in the mud. (those shoes made it into the trash :)

Do you see that kid? What happened to my baby boy? :(

A Rodeo Daycation

2011-03-28T15:21:00.003-05:00

Daddy had a few days off work so we decided we would take the kids for their FIRST trip to the Rodeo. It was crazy fun, over crowded, try everything kinda day!

Lots of fun at the petting zoo. Kaylon was loving on all the different animals. He was so excited and overwhelmed that he didn't know what to touch first. He was a super sweet boy to the baby goats! He also gave the Llama a big kiss on the nose! (It was a bit to crowded to bring Kolbie into the chaos, so she will have to wait until next year)
Had to try it all. Could not RESIST the tractors. Had to tug on all the gears and push all the buttons. GG put him up in the big chair and got his boots shined. You know how much he loves his boots, so that was a real treat!

Uncle Luke was there with his students showing their animals that day. Kaylon and Kolbie both got some up close action with steers until they quickly wore their welcome out!

Kolbie was having the time of her life watching. She is her Mama's child. We can people watch all day long! (Then talk about the crazies all night long!)

( This proves my point that I am a horrible picture taker! I can take pictures all day long, but when the perfect moment comes along, I get to excited and just start rattling off shots, AND EVERY TIME...my focus is off and my setting is all wrong!Ugh! How perfect would this picture be if I knew what I was doing?!!!)

Of course, we had to wait over 30 minutes in a huge long line to ride a horse. But it was worth it! This time he went all by himself, Daddy didn't even walk next him!

He was such a good boy that Daddy decided to buy him a new guitar on the way out. Kaylon was so beside himself that he had to rock out right there in the middle of the street. All the passers by were enjoying the show!

Spring Break Staycation- Park/Library

2011-03-28T13:09:00.006-05:00

We had an wonderful time this Spring Break just finding stuff to do around the area. We had a lot of "firsts" this week!

Play time at the park

We meet up with Sterling & Grady for some play time at the park. Climbing, sliding, swinging, and playing ball all together was fun to watch!

Story Time at the Library

Then we headed to the Library for story time. This was our first "1st" of the week. I hadn't taken them to library yet, but I knew Kaylon had learned all about it in the numerous times he as watched Barney and Caillou go to the Library. WELL, it was CRAZY! Of course he wen flying in he door laughing and giggling, running all through the place. The Library goes got a kick out of it but I was totally embarrassed.

Then we went to the story room, where he had NO interest in sitting there to listen to a story. His ears must have been totally clogged at the time, because he was not listening at ALL! Of course, Sterling and Grady were sitting there like perfect angles :)

After story time and silly dance was over they got to color. Thankfully we know how to do that!

After everything was over...the librarian pulled me aside and said they have story time on Thursdays for infants that has more movement involved and that Kaylon might be better suited in that group until he gets used to the idea if story time! I was mortified!

Never the less, we always have fun with the MacTwins!

1st Birthday Bash- The Goods

2011-03-22T19:44:00.000-05:00

Isn't she the cutest thing you've ever seen! She wasn't much help in the unwrapping department, but she's was an ace when it came to chewing on the paper!

I still haven't found a spot for all her new fun stuff! Clothes, Toys, Money in the Bank & Bows galore...what more could a girl ask for!

Thank you very much to everyone who shared in the joy of Kolbie's special day!

She is one lucky girl!

1st Birthday Bash- Cutting the Cake

2011-03-22T08:36:00.000-05:00

This moment was much harder for me than I ever imagined. I don't have the words to explain what I felt when the moment arrived and it was time to sing her "Happy Birthday."

- Mind you...I have been singing her "Happy Birthday to you" for a month now, and over and over again the past few days. Friday was her actual birthday and Saturday was the party. I got so busy with the preparation that I ran out of time to get her a little cake and sing to her on her actual birthday, so I can only imagine that added to my emotion during he party...but I was crying my eyes out! I did NOT want to sing to my baby her "Happy Birthday" song because it was official. She was ONE. No turning back, Do not pass go...It has happened. My angel baby girl was no longer an infant. Hard pill to swallow for me this time for some reason. I had to leave the room to compose myself, while everyone was laughing at me:)

After getting myself together, loosing it all over again, and repeating the cycle several times

...I had to be a big girl and get on with it!

Happy Birthday to YOU...

Happy Birthday to Kolbie Michelle

Happy Birthday to YOU!

Mommy & Daddy LOVE YOU TO PIECES!

1st Birthday Bash- Family, Friends, and FUN

2011-03-21T20:13:00.000-05:00

By now I am sure everyone is sick to death of seeing this picture, but I LOVE IT! When Adria emailed me this photograph of my family, and every one was looking in the same general direction and NO ONE was crying...it made me burst out in tears!

We were so blessed to have our daughter surrounded by such wonderful family and friends, and so glad to have everyone share in the joy of her special day.

The kids had tons of fun playing with all the backyard had to offer. They had plenty to do with the 2 bouncy houses, roller coaster, slide, and playroom! It kept them busy for sure!

The only activity I had planned for the party was a Pixie Stick Dip...didn't turn out the exact way I planned, but with an age range of 1-7, the kids made their own rules! (Including double and triple dipping!!) But, the Pixie Stix still turned out delicious!

I also want to give a shout out to Adria of Adria Ashby Photography. She is a great friend and the face behind the camera of all the adorable photo's. We have her come shoot all of our important events. It takes the pressure off of me and we never miss a moment. Thank's Girl! To check out her blog click here!

1st Birthday Bash- The Candle

2011-03-21T08:58:00.000-05:00

I have to say the most important decoration and special gift of the party was my angel baby girl's 1st birthday candle. I hand encrusted her candle with over 400 rhinestone crystals on all 5 sides! I wanted a candle that she could use over and over again on her 10th, 16th, 18th, 21st, and 100th Birthdays! On that special day when she goes to blow out this extra special candle she will have a moment with me and remember how very much I love her. It took lots of time and patience ( and several trial and error techniques) for it to turn out perfect, but it was worth every ounce of diligence.

1st Birthday Bash- The Decor

2011-03-20T19:31:00.015-05:00

There are so many detail's I want to cover about this party that I'm having to do it in phase's! It was so much fun planning a PINK party and I am really giving my best effort at this "Domestic Mom" thing, so I decided I would make as many of the decorations myself as I could.

So here you have it...PINK & ORANGE overload!

To start the festivities I digitally designed the invitations, birthday banners (for outside and inside!), the stickers for the goody bags, water bottles, cupcake toppers, and Thank You cards.

I have recently acquired a Cricut which I used to make her banners ("Happy 1st Birthday", "I am one", and "Kolbie") and the party hats. The Cricut cake was even used to cut out her name for her smash cake! I am starting to heart the Cricut! What a great invention that was!

I spent HOURS putting together a Ribbon topiary, a Tulle tree, 3 tulle wands, 2 cupcake stands and about 30 different tissue pom poms! Thankfully I didn't have to worry with making the food. I have the best Aunt's in the world who handled that for me!

I want to give a special shout out to KK's best Cakes for making the most awesome birthday cake and cupcakes for this very special party. You can check out her shop at KKsBestCakes.com or follow her blog here.

A new Blog Design

2011-03-10T17:50:00.003-06:00

I have been experimenting in a lot of new digital scrap booking in my "free time" (because there is SOOO much of it! *sarcasm*)

I have been creating several invitation and announcement cards (including Ms. Kolbie's Birthday invitation and Thank You cards- soon to be mailed:)

Anyway I thought I would try and re-do my blog design all on my own...some people may think this is the easiest thing ever, but it is a new adventure for me!

So...take a look all around your screen...I customized it all from the totally awesome Forey banner at the top to the the crazy paper and polka dot ribbon on the sides, and even some stickers on the right side (the princess, Sweet boy, etc)

I am giving myself a pat on the back for this one. Not just doing it, but for getting it done while holding Kolbie Michelle the entire time!

Go Me!

Happy 1st Birthday!

2011-03-04T23:00:00.000-06:00

I can't believe you are already ONE. My oh my how this year has flown by! You have been a busy busy girl!

-Last bottle was the night before your birthday (unbeknown to you!)

-You are still a tiny thing wearing mostly 6-9 months clothes and some 12 months

-You are stuck to Mommy like GLUE, and scream your head off every time I walk out of the room!

-You started Mothers Day Out and go twice a week with Kaylon

-You have been pushing our toys all around, but have just started to stand on your own for a few seconds at a time (Mema says your diaper is still to heavy...wh

atever that means!)

-You rarely keep your bows in your hair anymore. I have to distract you from them or they come immediately out! :( So I have resorted to itty bitty bo

ws so you can't reach them!

-You LOVE to talk on the phone. Every toy you have, you turn it into a phone!

-You are a pro at crawling! Next opportunity I am entering you into a diaper dash!

-You can say Da Da, Ma Ma, Bu Bu, Ta Ta (thank you), and wave hi and bye with the best of them.

- You are still wearing size 3 diapers (for like 4 months now!)

-You love to dance to our usual tunes ( Itsy Bitsy Spider, A Bushel and a Peck, and Patty Cake)

-You are so bashful when people talk and smile at you.

-You are a lovey dovey sweet baby when you are being held.

- You have a streak of meanness in you that posses you to pull your brothers hair, and to bite every now and again. ( Cousin Joey said it best when he told said you were a sweet bite of frosting with rotten cake underneath!)

-You absolutely HATE to play dress up anymore, and it has become a pure fight to get you dressed after a diaper change.

-You play very well by yourself when we are outside and love to discover all the things nature has to offer.

To my sweet angel baby girl,

You take my breath away.

Love, Mommy

Sterling and Grady's 3rd Pirate/Dino Party

2011-02-28T13:15:00.001-06:00

We got to have some fun at the MacTwin's 3rd Birthday Bash. One wanted a Pirate theme, and the other wanted Dinosaurs, so Tatum had the fun job of combining the 2! She had Pirates, and telescopes, tattoo station, and a treasure hunt just to name a few. I think Kaylons favorite thing was fishing...and the cupcakes of course. Kolbie had fun just being cute!

Happy 3rd Birthday Sterling & Grady!

Kolbie's Birthday Countdown

2011-02-26T07:01:00.002-06:00

7 days and counting! My angel baby girl will be ONE year old! You can't go anywhere in this house with out running into something pink and orange! Its everywhere in preparation for her birthday bash! I had decided for this party I was going to attempt to make everything myself, from the party invitations to ALL the decorations, banners, party hats, cup cake display, just everything! Domestic Diva huh? Ha...not really, just trying my best to save some money and still spoil her until she stinks! (Pretty sure that mission is already accomplished, but it is still fun!) Stay tuned for plenty of pictures of this party princess in the next few weeks to come. We have her and big brither a portrait session scheduled next Wednesday! (they are rare anymore, so I am very excited!)

Side bar...I decided to have LASIK surgery on my eyes yesterday, and I am siting here at the computer with no glasses on for the first time since I was 13 years old. The thought brings tears to my eyes that I can actually see! No make up for this Mama for a WEEK! Planned it just perfect for the party day! (Small price to pay for a life free of glasses and contacts!)

From OUR hearts to YOURS!

2011-02-14T09:18:00.001-06:00

Perfect Angel's or Little Devils?

2011-02-09T09:52:00.005-06:00

My days are filled with a little of both!

At 11 months old her majesty has a PHD in playing on your heart strings with her shy bashful sweetness. She giggles and laughs all day long. Her motor boating skills are a true art form. She is a professional at batting her eyes and can smile from ear to ear. . .That is of course, when she's NOT busy hitting and scratching and biting! She can pitch a fit with the best of them from grunting and crossing her arms to trying so hard to cry she holds her breath. A little over dramatic I might add. The craziest thing is that she will be loving on her brother...patting and rubbing his head so sweetly then out of nowhere she will scream and pull the heck out of his hair! Crazy randomness! That's pure proof she is wearing her wings and halo simultaneously with her horns and pitchfork! oh, and She knows exactly what you are saying to her and you can watch her wheels turn as she decides to shake her head "no."

My son is 2, and so I'm not sure if he is supposed to get a pass on his crazy behavior or not. It is the most precious sound I have ever heard when he gets in my lap, cocks his head side ways, and say's "I love you too Mommy."

He loves to sing and dance. I don' know what he is singing half the time, but I'm getting pretty good at figuring it out. It is the sweetest thing when he comes to tell me sissy is crying, and when he wants to "help Daddy fix." There is no shortage of toy "sewdives" and "hanners" around the house when he decides something needs to be worked on. It is utterly adorable when he hollers from the other side of the house "I made a mess!" and it takes me a split second to decide if I should come running with the broom or the 409.

Make no mistake, his halo hides his horns too. I swear his ears have fallen off because he doesn't listen to a single word I say. His Daddy and I both ask him why he gets what he wants when he says please but we can say it over and over again and get nothing. Just recently he has decided to answer with "No thank you" which on one hand I should be happy he is using his manners , but when it follows " Can you pick up your toys, please" it gets a little frustrating.

The words "No" and "I want" should never have been invented. And throwing things has literally gone out of control. Not a day goes by where he is not in time out. Usually its more like 2 or 3 times a day. Lets just say so much, that now I just tell him to go sit in time out and he will.

Kolbie's 1st Day at MDO

2011-02-01T09:32:00.001-06:00

It was nothing like Kaylon's 1st day...I was ready for a break from her royal highness! I had anxiety because there has been a lot of flip flop with the teachers at school, but they re-assured me Mrs. Ashley would be in her room.

I had been telling Kaylon for a few day's that Kolbie was going to be going to school with him, but he was still confused about it when it was time to drop them off. Their classrooms are connected by a 1/2 door so they can peek in on each other whenever. After we were there for a few minutes I handed her off to Mrs. Ashley and that was it.

I hung around for a little while peeking in the glass just to see what was going on, but she was focused on playing with all the new toys.

The 6 hours flew by WAY to fast! When I went to pick them up she was standing up sharing a toy with little Elaina (the only other kid in her class!!ha) I called to her and of course she smiled at me and started to crawl over....then she changed her mind and went back to they toy! She did this twice before I had to go pick her up!

Mrs. Ashley gave her a good report card saying she did wonderful. There are so few kids in both class 1 and class2 hat they combine them both for lunch and nap time. The teacher said Kolbie wanted to share all of Kaylon's food and at nap time she kept wanting to crawl over to her brother and cuddle with him. (Sweetest thing ever!) But Mrs. Ashley eventually moved her back into the other classroom and put her in the pack-n-play so they both could get some rest.

To sum it up I think all 3 of us are very excited about school days!

Zoo Day

2011-01-28T20:26:00.001-06:00

Ryan was off work for a few days, so we decided on a whim to go to the Zoo. It was such a beautiful day, we could not have asked for more perfect weather. The usual happening at the zoo is Daddy holds one kid, while I hold another and we switch off pushing an empty stroller...so we decided we would purchase our first wagon on the way to the Zoo and give that a try.

Wagon 101: Do not attempt to assemble in store parking lot!
2: Dont bring Me to pick out the new wagon, because I am going to pick the fancy dancy one with all the bells and whistles which in translation means a million plus one parts!
3: Bring a hammer! Yes! A hammer to assemble a wagon! Who knew!

After the 2 hour shopping and assembly wagon delay we made our way to the Zoo. Last trip we didn't get a chance to ride the train, so we started with that this time.

Daddy and the little conductor!

The Forey Four

Her magesty has her Daddy's handicap of blinking and the wrong time!

Kaylon was super fascinated by all the animals this time around.

Turns out the wagon was a great idea! Kaylon loved using his muscles to pull his sister around the park. When he got tired he would climb in and kick back. Kolbie loved not being restrained. She had free roam of the wagon. Then when it was time to fuss, the wagon was perfect time out spot too!

The weather was so perfect and everybody behaved so well, we decided we would stop and have some ice cream on the way out. Ok...it wasn't our idea, but after Kaylon saw people walking around with their ice cream, he needed some too!

They are definatley Forey children when it comes to the ice cream. They can never get enough!

Fun times at the Zoo. Every time we go I am so impressed with the change from when I was little. No more brown dry nastyness that I was used to. Now it is green shady beautiful, and well kept! Slap hands to the Zoo keepers!

Playing in the Jumphouse

2011-01-26T20:25:00.000-06:00

A mess for Mommy!

2011-01-25T13:19:00.000-06:00

Kaylon decided he wanted to get something to eat and quickly got distracted by the large bag of flour Daddy left on the shelf right in his reach!!

Kolbie decided she would get in on the action, too!

Iron Man & 10 months Old

2011-01-05T09:17:00.008-06:00

Iron ManIs that not crazy? From the very 1st time he watched Iron Man 2...he was out of control! Luckily I found on Netflix Iron Man (1) and he asked to watch it a couple time a week. Daddy bought the mask on a random trip to Wal- Mart and that was all she wrote. My sweet boy transforms into Iron Man on a whim. For Christmas he received all the Iron Man accessories he could have needed to complete the ensemble (thanks to GG, Uncle Sean and Aunt Mel)! Now he asks to watch Iron Man 2 1st thing EVERY morning. He can't leave it behind either..when we load up in the car, its a fight to get him to pick just one toy to take! Watch out when you ring our door!

10Months old!

My sweet angel baby girl is quickly growing he horns! She has acquired an "I'm gonna get what I want or throw something" attitude! Daddy doesn't believes me when I tell him, so I will have to try and capture it on video. His fatherly reasoning wonders how her little hands can pick stuff up. Its too funny when she does it because she gets so mad, and all I can do is laugh at her! I'm going to have a mess on my hands one day, but right now its adorable!

An new thing this last month is she LOVES to help Mommy do the dishes. I'll wash them and load them in the dishwasher, and she will diligently work at rearranging them! She never really liked baby food and has decided that what Mommy, Daddy, and Kaylon are eating is much better and has little birdie moments of needing us to share out meal. Her favorite thing to eat right now are GoldFish. Kaylon does and awesome job at sharing them. He loves to show me how good he is at being a big brother.

1st birthday party plans are in full swing...the countdown has begun! T- 58 day's to go!

Edenfield Wedding 12/31/10

2011-01-04T09:52:00.000-06:00

My brother and new sister in law Jennifer threw a heck of a party on New Years where everyone was there to celebrate the joyous occasion of their wedding! It was absolutely beautiful!

Kaylon was awesome all day long. He behaved (for the most part) during the photo session before the wedding,
but by the time 8pm rolled around he was laying his head on his ring bearer pillow while we were waiting to walk down the isle.

When it was our turn, 1st he decided to run the other way. Then when we got him back in line he decide o ride his imaginary horse down the isle. There was no standing up front with the boys this time. He was immediately into Mommy and Daddy's lap.

He didn't make it long enough to participate in the after ceremony pictures.

I have to throw this picture in because it was so much fun. They had a photo booth with props set up in the corner which everyone throughly enjoyed!

Mommy and Daddy celebrating the New Year. This is a rare occassion because at least the last 2 years (if not more) we have been in bed by midnight! (I know, we are old folks!)

I just have to say that I am so happy for my brother to have found the one that was made for him and we are so glad to have Jennifer join our family! Love you both!

Wedding rehearsal

2011-01-02T10:13:00.000-06:00

I am SO mad at myself for this! I just start shooting with the camera before I check the settings, and it makes wonderful moments like these turn out unusable. Ugh! I have got to stop that!

We arrived o rehearsal early so we decided to play around and take some pictures while we were waiting for the rehearsal to being. My little cowboy will not take his boots off! Thankful Jennifer said he can wear hem with his tux. I have to give in on something.

Kolbie looking as cute as she can be! She won't be at the wedding, so we dressed her up and let her strut her stuff at the rehearsal.

The rehearsal actually went very smoothly. My little ring bearer did awesome! He stood up there with his Uncle Luke and waited patiently while stretching his lips and playing with his belly button! What ever it takes! (I'm going to stuff the best man's pocket with skittles and gummy bears for a nice bribe during the wedding!)

3 Days of Christmas!

2010-12-27T09:47:00.017-06:00

Christmas Eve
To start the evening we headed to Mema's house!

Always a fun and interesting time there!

Then, this year we changed it up and headed to Grammy's house for family Christmas Eve dinner with her, Uncle Sean, Aunt Mel, Brynlee and Chance!

An AWESOME picture of all four grandbabies looking at the camera! Never can get them all to sit still long enough, so this picture is a gift all it own!

I had to share this picture of my precious angel on her first Christmas Eve (sporting a new bow Grammy gave her) lost in a sea of wrapping paper!

So much fun!

After a hearty meal of Grammy's shrimp ettoufee and ton's of special presents we headed home so we wouldn't miss Santa.

Christmas Day

The kiddos woke up about 6:30 to see what Santa left for them.

Kaylon was shocked to see a brand new Kitchen! He immediately started cooking and washing his hands.

It was too funny when he opened the oven door he say "ooh, its really hot!" My silly boy really does listen to his Mama!

Kolbie was drawn right to her pink stroller and 1st baby doll that Santa brought her.

She was so precious talking to it saying "Ahhhhh, Ahhhhhhhhhh" in her high pitched angel baby voice!

Aunt Meagan and Aunt B were there to see them. GG, Mema, and Grammy showed up soon after to enjoy my Christmas angels open up their gifts. After all the fun we settled down to enjoy some cheese grits and off everybody went o start their busy Christmas Day. This s the 1st year the Forey's got to stay home and enjoy each others company and play with all the new toys on Christmas Day.

Late that evening we dressed the children up in their super adorable Christmas attire and headed over to Uncle Luke and Aunt Jennifer's house for a wonderful Christmas Dinner.

After a late evening there we headed home or a good nights sleep.

Day After Christmas

Pop and Noni made their way out to Crosby to enjoy their Christmas time with the kids. We spent the whole day opening gifts, playing outside on the new Jumpy house Pop and Noni brought, eating lots of Cajun stuffed chicken, and just enjoying each others company.

Noni taking her turn being Iron Man!

I have to say this was one of the best Christmas' ever!

Festival of Lights 2010

2010-12-19T20:17:00.003-06:00

Had lots of fun at festival of lights this year! It was especially awesome to see how much the kids were enjoying themselves.

Name Game

2010-12-18T20:24:00.001-06:00

A super exciting day in our house! Kaylon called his baby sister by her NAME!
Let me explain (a little back story)...
From the beginning I found out I was pregnant with a girl, I referred to Kolbie as "baby sister" We even played Peek a Boo with my belly trying to find her.
Strangely enough, from the very 1st moment they met..he called her "Sissy." Which has always been so super sweet. (Side bar: I think he got that name from Barney because BJ refers to Baby Bop as Sissy and as much as he loves that show he probably has every single episode down by memory!...Double Side bar: every picture of a baby even his own baby pictures he points to them and says they are Sissy.)
At this point (even still) Kaylon has yet to speak his own name.
We play the game where we point and say "who's that" and he answers, but when we point to him, just recently he has been answering "me" which I love! One step closer to his name, right! He even acknowledges when I explain to him that a picture is him when he was a baby....Baby Kaylon. Me...he says point to himself. Love it!
Just yesterday I was getting after Kolbie for getting into something and I said Kooolbbbie (real long and drawn out) and he copied me! So I pointed to her and asked him who that was. Of course he said Sissy. Then I asked him what her name was...and he said KOLBIE!
HIGH FIVE MY LITTLE MAN! YOU ARE GETTING SO BIG RIGHT BEFORE MY EYES!

A Special Santa Moment

2010-12-06T19:34:00.000-06:00

This is Kaylon's 3rd Christmas and he is really beginning to grasp the joy of the season. For some reason, the past 2 years believe it or not I did try, but it never worked out for him to meet Santa, sit in his lap and have the whole moment. I really wanted him to have a great experience with it this year so we have been singing the songs, and reading the books, and learning about all the different holidays people celebrate and the story of Santa.
Finally Ryan had a day off and we were able to make it out to the mall to meet Santa only to be at the end of a 2 and a half hour line. We decided not to wait and this obviously turned out to be the best for us because we got to stand off to the side and I got to show Santa to Kaylon and explain to him that he is talking to all the boys and girls and we have to wait out turn. He was BESIDE himself just being in his presence!
So the next opportunity (on a weekday and unfortunately with out Daddy) we returned to the mall to have our 1st visit with Santa. We got to the mall and the devil horns were shinning on my sweet boys head! I just knew this was going to be terrible. We arrived while Santa was out feeding his Reindeer, and thankfully didn't have to wait to long. (We had a special pass this time that allowed us to cut in line...yay for us, bummer for those who had been waiting for so long:(
The moment that Santa came around the corner and sat in his big comfy Santa Chair, he winked and waved to my boy. Kaylon was giddy with excitement! He was just feet away from us, but we were asked by the elves to let 2 infant babies go 1st. Of course, we were pleased to do so, and I explained to Kaylon that we had to wait our turn, Santa gets to talk to all the boys and girls. He kept telling Santa while we were waiting "patiently"... "I a good boy Santa." Finally it was our turn, Santa turned to us and raised his arms up to Kaylon, and my sweet boy ran as fast as he could to climb up on Santa's lap and have his turn. If only I had a tool to decipher what he was telling him. Kaylon was filled with words flooding out tell Santa all about...who knows what! Kolbie was amazing too! She sat in Santa's lap next to her brother and just stared at the jolly man. My heart was just filled with so much joy and love to see my children enjoying the moment. I know it sounds crazy. It felt like ages before our turn was over, but a few moments I decided to usher my children down the line. Kaylon gave Santa a BIG hug, got off his lap said "Bye Santa" and blew him a heavenly sweet boy kiss. Melt MY Heart! Then funny enough he told Santa "Ho Ho Ho, Merry Christmas" which Santa giggled at him a belted out the same right back to him. I hated my husband had to miss this! We called him right away and Kaylon told him all about it! (Thankfully I thought ahead and had Aunt Meagan video tape the whole thing...which Daddy watched 3 times when he got home from work, and all he could comment was how fuzzy it made him feel inside and the urge it gave him to go sit in Santa's lap too!)

I could not have asked for a better special Santa moment!

9 Months Old!

2010-12-04T19:24:00.000-06:00

Can you believe it? 9 months old! Our sweet angel baby girl!

She is a speed racer on her knees crawling, and she can hardly contain herself, she wants to walk so bad. She has started to jibber jabber all about her Da Da, and waving Hi, and even says bye bye every now and again. At least, I let her know that is what she is saying! I am drilling Ma Ma into her head, but she just giggles at me! All in time! The biggest milestone I'd have to say she has accomplished is FINALLY holding up her own bottle (most of the time:) A great day in the world of a busy Mommy! She has 4 teeth this month (Kaylon didn't even have one at 9 months!)

To my Angel Baby Girl...SLOW DOWN! Mommy needs to snuggle bug you as long as I can! You have the rest of your life to be a big girl! Muah!

Mrs. Danyel

2010-12-01T09:21:00.010-06:00

1st day of school Class 1

Mrs. Danyel is Kaylon's MDO teacher. She is the first (and ONLY) person I have left my son with that has not been family. I had major anxiety the few days she was absent from school the last year and a half. She was so patient with me when I stood outside the class room looking through the glass for hours on the 1st day last year. (So different this year when I just dropped him off and left!)

1st day of school Class 2

Her daughter Brooke was Kaylon's 1st crush. He couldn't get enough of this pretty little girl.

Now, Mrs. Danyel had to go and get a grown up job, so she will not be my sweet boy's teaher anymore. Kaylon has no idea that she won't be there when he goes back on Thursday, but I do. I have full faith that he will be in good hands at school, but our Mrs. Danyel will never be replaced!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-26T09:03:00.001-06:00

I am so thankful for:

My beautiful children. They are my purpose in life. My world revolves around them and I am so thankful to be their Mom.

My wonderful husband. He brings out the best in me. My happiest times are when we are together, even if its just lounging on the couch. I am so thankful to be his wife.

I wouldn't be who I am today if it wasn't for the three of you in my life. You make me want to be the best that I can be in everything I do. I couldn't have asked for anything more.

(Horrible exposure...huge bummer)

Kaylon's Fall Recital

2010-11-18T15:00:00.000-06:00

Cute as it could be! This year instead of dancing and singing he decided he would just stand there and make monster noises. Of course he clapped when the song was over. When the second group went on stage, he decided he needed to go back on stage to get to the drum set! He kept telling me " I be back in a minute" Silly boy! We are used to having an army show up for the recitals but were so thankful that GG and soon to be Aunt Jennifer could make it.

Kaylon in his Scarecrow Costume

Kolbie supporting her brother!

Our Tiny Humans

2010-11-15T06:58:00.006-06:00

Ryan had to remind me the other day that our daughter is now 8 months old. I keep referring to her as 7 months. I guess I'm in denial of my sweet angel baby girl getting bigger! But, there are signs she has left behind all over the house! I can't deny that! From missing varnish on our bar stools, to teeth marks on our coffee table!
She has the frog leg crawl that gets her where she needs to go, then she pulls herself up on anything she can reach. She gets so proud of herself. Just yesterday she was pulling herself up using one of Kaylons dump trucks and just as soon as she got to her feet and put on her big smile it dumped over. She went tumbling down with all the grace of a moose! She doesn't believe she is supposed to be on the floor and she lets me know it. Most of the time it is instant screams when I set her down and if not, they come flooding out as soon as I walk away. Stubborn too. Maybe I should just refer to it as strong will power. She will scream as long as it takes. We were in the car Sunday driving from Pop & Noni and she literally screamed the entire drive. Nearly an hour. This girl is going to give me gray hair by my next birthday!
I guess I need to elaborate on the sweet angel baby girl title :) She really is the most happy baby. She will shine her smile on a stranger and they just can't help but talk to her. Of course that's when she decides to get bashful and lay her head on my shoulder. There is no mistaken she is a Mama's girl, but is now madly in love with her Daddy. She will bat her eyes, and smile at him until she feels she has gotten enough of his attention. Then its back to Mommy.

Big Brother Kaylon. He really does love being a big brother. He tries to help his sister do everything...including walk, if you can get that visual! He is so desperate to be a big kid. When we go to the park he is fascinated by them. He will follow the big kids around laughing when they laugh, running when they run, and trying to play with the same toys the do. Most of the bigger kids have been really nice to him, Others just go about their business. Last week we were playing at the park and there had to be 15 children there of various ages that all knew each other. Kaylon had the best time watching, running, and playing with them. He was so involved that he didn't even pay attention when he walked behind some of them on the swing set and got hammered to the ground. The girls on the swing felt so bad, but Kaylon was NOT going to let them see him cry. He was huffing and his little lip all curled up when I got there to brush him off. He handled it so well.
He has been going through this phase where he is waning to play with all Kolbie's baby toys. He locks himself in her swing, gets stuck in her jumpy horse, and here lately has just been wanting me to hold him. I guess he feels like I haven't been giving him enough attention lately especially since Kolbie requires me to hold her 99% of the time. It hurts me to think that's what he is feeling. I am working on a way to figure in some alone time with Mommy and her favorite son. I think it will be good for us both.
His favorite things right now are chocolate milk and Barney. He has recently discovered a cartoon about a 4 year old boy called Caillou. He LOVES Iron Man, and since Daddy bought him a mask he has been my Iron Man Boy. He also loves to wear his boots. WHen he decides he is wearing his boots, there is no changing his mind! He is also a very rambunctious boy and loves to rough house.

Speaking of rough housing. Kolbies 1st boo boo. A black eye. For documentation purposes I'm not 100% sure how she got it but I've pretty much narrowed it down to when Kaylon was jumping back and forth over her like a froggy, and must have gotten her with his knee.

They each have such strong and different personalities. Oh the journey I look forward to with these two!

De Ja Voo

2010-11-01T12:03:00.005-05:00

Kolbie Michelle

11/01/2010

Kaylon Derrick

6/14/2009

Halloween 2010

2010-11-01T09:51:00.008-05:00

This year started off with a bang! Max showed up at the back door this morning! Wagging his tail, perky, and perfect as he could be. 4 days running around out in the wild. We had called all the shelters and posted all the lost dog signs, and had pretty much written him off, then the durn dog shows up. Crazy!

Pumpkin Carving

We just knew Kaylon would enjoy it this year. He liked cutting with his pumpkin knife, and he like washing them off with the water hose, but the mushy gooey insides..."Ewwwe" he says! ( I know baby, I'm ruining your son!)

Costumes

I think all little girls need to be a pumpkin on their first Halloween, so by default that made Kaylon a Scarecrow this year. Kolbie got to wear her Daddy's 1st Halloween pumpkin costume, hand made by Grammy. I almost gave in and let Kaylon be Iron Man, since he is completely obsessed, but stood my ground since I figured this would probably be the last year I get to choose, so I made his scarecrow costume.

Funny enough, neither my hat wearing boy or my bow wearing princess wanted anything to do with the contraptions to top their costumes. We got Kolbies on for a matter of minutes and were able to bribe Kaylon to put his on to go trick or treating.

Tricks and LOTS of treats!

This was Kaylons 1st year walking to houses and knocking on the door. What do you do when someone answers? Go in of course! He kept walking into peoples houses and the greeters didn't know what to do! I'd have to go in and shoo him out. Once he collected his loot, it was time to get his eat on! Silly boy wanted to eat his candy before he even got to the next house. Needless to say after the 5th house, we headed home!

Kaylon was the best at passing out candy. He said hi to everyone and had no problem giving his candy away. He even gave extra to the pretty girls! Ham!
At one point a Spider Man came and he put his hand on his chest and said "IIrrrooon Maaaan!"
Come on people, Don't you know Iron Man can kick SpiderMans butt, even when he's dressed up like a Scarecrow!!

Thanks to Grammy, Pop & Noni, Uncle David & Aunt Lori for joining in the fun!!

(Side Bar Binky Update:
It has been TORTURE the last few days with a whiny boy, but I have been sticking to my guns. He has stolen Kolbie's bink the last few nights, but I have made him give it back 1st thing in the morning. Until last night. He woke up 2 times screaming, and Kolbies bink wasn't working, so I gave in. Showed him his binky, stuck it in his mouth, silence, thank goodness....until 3 AM when he screamed his head off. To keep from waking Kolbie, into Mommy & Daddy's bed we went.)

Binky Drama

2010-10-28T11:56:00.003-05:00

As we all know...My son has a Binky Addiction.

It kinda out of control. We had started to break from having it as often right before Kolbie showed up, but since then it has been ridiculous. So recently he has been throwing it down on the ground when he wants a drink or a snack or something, and he will run off and leave it behind...only to freak out a few minutes later telling me to "find it", of course followed by "You find it" for him to finish with "You find it." Normal routine followed by us both scouring the house "Binky where are you" until its found (usually by me or Daddy)
Except for yesterday.
Mommy did not look for it once! Neither did Kaylon. Nap time came, he asked for it. I told him to find it. He napped with out it! Score 1 for Mommy!
Bed time....came and went....no Binky! SCORE 2 for Mommy!
School day today...I found a Binky in his backpack....cut the tip off of it and let Mrs. Danyel know about my victories.
Progress report from school, He threw the broken binky in the trash!!!! Score 3 for Mommy!!!
Let keep fingers and toes crossed we can quit the binky COLD TURKEY!!

Where, oh where???

2010-10-28T10:38:00.001-05:00

....has our little dog gone? Where, oh where, can he be??
Last night our little dog MAX ran away from home :( Actually it started out as Lucy running away. I ran out the front door to get her, Kaylon decided to follow and left the front door open. It was over an hour later before I noticed he was missing. It was dark already and finding a small black dog in the dark??? Not gonna happen. But I tried anyway. Loaded up the kiddos and we drove all around the neighborhood with the windows rolled down hollering his name. Even Kaylon joined in. Kolbie just hollered. She was not happy about the late night ride being stuck in her car seat.
No luck. So we came home, went about our normal routine, stopping every so often to go outside and call for him.
This morning I loaded up the kiddos for round 2 dog hunt on our way to school. It is the cutest thing....Kaylon would ask me "Ma, Where's Max, Ma???" then he would answer his own question, putting his hands in the air saying " I dunno!!" Ugh, he's too durn cute sometimes!
Now only thing left to do it hang up some fliers I guess...
Max, lets be honest, most of the time I don't like you any more. 2 kids and 2 dogs is getting to be way to much for this mommy, BUT Kaylon and Kolbie LOVE you. So, Please come home!!!!

Dewberry Farm

2010-10-24T22:03:00.002-05:00

Failed photo attemp??

2010-10-20T21:49:00.000-05:00

I bought Kolbie this adorable tutu dress several months ago and I wanted to get a picture of her in it before she out grows it. For some reason, today, some body did not want to share the attention.

After shoo-ing him to play inside for a few minutes, it was too late. She was already irritated by her big brother.

This is what I found when I came inside.

Priceless!

They love each other!

2010-10-18T20:58:00.004-05:00

Daddy's week off

2010-10-16T07:35:00.006-05:00

After Kaylon's Birthday weekend, Ryan got an unexpected week off from work. So we took advantage and were busy, busy, busy!

Rainforest Cafe

Kaylon is really discovering different animals right now, so we decided we would take a trip to Galveston's Rainforest Cafe. His loves elephants, so we sat right next to that display, and he couldn't have been more busy during dinner! I think Kolbie was just as intrigued with the atmosphere as Kaylon was!

The Zoo

The weather has been to perfect so we decided to go to the Zoo. It was Kolbie's 1st time, and Ryan's 1st time in YEARS!

Too much fun was had at the Zoo! We went back to see the elephants twice. He named then Mama Elephant, Daddy Elephant, and Baby Elephant. Daddy Elephant was a girl, but we let him have that one!

It was nap time by the time we left, so we are looking forward to going back for the train ride and seeing the animals we missed.

Bike Ride

We had plenty of time on our hands so we took Kolbie on her 1st bike ride. She still isn't quite big enough for the stroller, so she didn't last long before she was completely slumped over. But Kaylon loved it, as always!

We were so happy to have Daddy at home with us for almost a whole week!

Our 3rd Wedding Anniversary

2010-10-13T07:57:00.002-05:00

9 years together, 3 years married. The most handsome son on the planet who keeps me on my toes, an angel baby girl who melts my heart, and the most wonderful husband who loves me more every day. What more can a girl ask for!

Kaylon's 2nd Birthday Bash

2010-09-25T14:15:00.010-05:00

We decided to go a little more laid back on the bash this year, but had tons of birthday fun. Kaylon had lots of family show up to celebrate his day and it was the 1st year he had his little friends come and join in the fun! It was oh so cute!
We rented a birthday cake moonwalk for the back yard and it was a major hit. That thing was huge! I didn't plan any games for the party goers, instead we had a paint party! I bought several canvases for all the guest to paint with primary colors in hopes to hang them in our play room to display the ABC's and 123's. I also had some card stock paper there for the kiddos to paint if they wanted to take a painting home with them. Sounds fun, huh! I'd like to pat myself on the back for thinking that one up all on my own!
The cake was one of my favorite things this year. I designed it based on his plates and napkins that I bought. Aunt KK and I spent a whole day decorating it and only completed the bottom layer! Aunt KK had to finish it, and it tasted as good as it looked! The top was her peanut butter filling and chocolate cake and bottom layer was yellow cake with yummy strawberry filling. Hi five to Aunt KK and KK's Best Cake's!
The kiddo's were all having so much fun, I decided this year not to pull them away to open up the gifts, so we just opened them one by one with our guest as they were leaving. It seamed to work well.
I did get a few phone calls for the goodie bags that we handed out. I was trying to stick to primary colors and believe it or not it was hard to accomplish, but I found some super adorable airplane whistles to add to the bags...I know I know, whistles. You're Welcome!!
Thank you to everyone who came to join in the fun! Thanks to you, we had an awesome 2nd birthday bash!

If trouble viewing slideshow, click here.

Happy 2nd Birthday to my sweet sweet boy!!

2010-09-23T21:16:00.009-05:00

Oh, the joys of A TWO YEAR OLD in the house!!! Climbing on the counters, getting in the draws, asking "Why?" after I say anything! He spends as much time playing as he does in time out!! But we are sticking to our guns. I keep telling him, Mommy always wins! Eventually, he'll get it. At least I hope so.

Daddy has become Kaylon's best friend. Mommy is "good enough" all day long, until Daddy walks in the door, then it's "Daddy eat eat" "Daddy I want Milk" "Daddy fix." Really...Daddy can't leave his sight, and he has to get him everything. I'm not even good enough for diaper changes. When it comes to Kolbie, Daddy has a jealous boy on his hands.

He does love his "sissy" to pieces. Just today we showed up to class to pick him up from school, and all the kids ran up to see "the baby" and Kaylon was able to show her off giving her hugs and kisses and telling them "my Sissy, My Sissy." He was very proud.

My sweet boy has started climbing out of his crib at all hours of the night. Not sure how we are going to handle that, but I'm working on it!He has been so over the top adorable since he has found his "air guitar" a few months ago. He closes his eye's and nods his head while he's playing too. Oh, yeah he feels it! It's pretty ridiculously cute! Just in the last week or 2 he has also started drumming on everything. I don't know where he gets it from, but the kid has music in his bones.

Happy Happy Birthday to the most sweetest boy I know! Mommy loves you!

My China Doll

2010-09-07T08:58:00.008-05:00

We were playing in the front yard while Daddy and Kaylon were cleaning the garage. I think they turned out pretty good...

All in 6 months

2010-09-04T17:36:00.012-05:00

In 6 months, from being my petite baby girl, to my rolly polly squishy squirmy sweetness! Just in the last month she has cut her 1st 2 teeth, been scooting off her mat durring tummy time, and even rolling off the bed and couch (each only once)! I just know she will be crawling in no time!

She is a smiley girl ALL the time. From morning until night. She doesn't like mommy to leave her playing in a room by herself, and car rides are still not on her list of favorite things. Oh, and I better be on time with her bottle. Other than that, I get giggles and grins! She is even all smiles when Mommy plays dress up with her on a regular basis. (A new favorite past time of mine, hehe!)
For 2 months now I have been force feeding her an aray of vegetables and fruit. I say force feeding, because she doesn't like ANY of it!! She spits it all out each and every bite. I don't know what I'm going to do with this girl. I'm guessing she is going to be a meat and potatoes kid. We will begin trying those new flavors in the weeks to come.

She is also the drooliest random spit upper I know! I keep saying I'm going to hang a bucket around her neck, so don't be suprised if you see a snap shot of that in the future! I am happy to say her spit up has dramatically decreased in the last week, thank goodness. But that drool. It's out of control.

Her most favorite thing in the whole world is her big brother Kaylon. She gets so excited when he comes in the room she nearly jumps out of my lap. She can't stand not being able to follow him around. All in good time. It almost makes me sad to think about it. Oh, and make no mistake Kaylon loooves his "Sissy." He tells me " I hold, I hold Sissy." He thinks he's such a big help when he gets to hold her.
We have been working on her sitting up on her own, but still teeter totters a bit, so we might wait a few more weeks before her next portrait session.

This last week Daddy decided it was time for her to move into her room, that has been waiting for her since before she was born. It drove me crazy at night only being able to hear Kaylon on the monitor, so before we moved her in I had to go get one of those fancy video monitors. It gives me peace of mind more than it is necessary, but I love it. Ryan said he found me asleep with the monitor in my face the first night. I couldn't deny it.

My precious angel, I can hardly remember your 6lb self swaddled so tighly sleeping so soundly in your bassinett. And it was only 6 months ago! What am I going to think 6 or 16 years from now? Where does the time go?

1st Day Mothers Day Out, Class 2

2010-08-24T09:56:00.003-05:00

All day yesterday I was telling Kaylon, "School day tomorrow!" and like any kid, he would holler back at me "Nooooo!" Same went for this morning, but he woke up happy as can be, ate his breakfast, got dressed, and helped me with his back pack. He even waited patiently on his side of the car for me to come put him in his chair. The story changed when we got into the parking lot. He was tugging on my leg, whining, and wanted me to carry him the whole way walking into the building. Once we got inside it was all smiles. We got to his new class room. He is now in "Class 2" with the 2 year olds. We still have our favorite teacher, Mrs. Danyel.

It was weird because when he started last year, every one referred to him as "the baby" because he was only 11 months old. Now he is in a big boy class. When I was dropping him off, I was shocked to see that every kid in his class was Potty TRAINED! Even Ashley who is only 13 days older than him! Not cool. So now I have some hard work ahead of me!

After a few pictures, all the kids settled down for a snack. I saw this as my opportunity to sneak out. I grabbed my bag turned around and heard "Bye Bye." He ran up to me, gave me kisses, gave sister kisses and was on his way! No tears today from either of us! We are getting so big!

Pirates Bay Again!

2010-08-12T08:59:00.005-05:00

We had so much fun last week at the water park, Mema decided we should make it a weekly date. As expected, we had a fabulous time!

Mema even decided she was going to go down one of the water slides! Watch this!

Here I am with my sweet babies!

Kolbie had to show off her new bikini! Lots of compliments!

Jenna and TJ made is out this time. Mackinzie even went body surfing all by herself!

My little fish.

Here is a short video of Kaylon playing in the water.

Can't wait to go back.

Eagle Point Wave Pool in Mont Belvieu

2010-08-11T08:14:00.006-05:00

The wave pool has been on our list of things to do this summer. Our 1st attempt ended after arriving and having to wait for 2 hours because of thunder miles away and leaving before our feet ever touched the water.

Our 2nd attempt was much more successful. Kaylon LOVED the waves. They were pretty tough, knock you down kinda waves...but I think that is what he liked so much. This was the 1st time I have ever put in in a life jacket in the water and I was worried he would pitch a fit to take it off, but once he was in the water he didn't seem to mind in much. As for me...I would not recommend going in the wave pool with out it! It gave him more free rain to wonder off a few feet away and me the piece of mind to not have to have a hand on him the entire time.

Some of the time he would just float, other times he would kick his feet. He really liked to play in the waves with the inner tube. At one point I was sitting at the entrance to the water with the waves crashing while he was playing all around me, then out of nowhere he jumped on me just as a wave was crashing down. It mowed us over, and of course the waves kept coming and coming, so it took nearly six or seven waves crashing on us before I could get us up out of the water. Scarred him half to death. He was done after that, and it was way past nap time so we headed out after that. I thought it would be something to do and cross off our list, but I kinda excited to take him back.

Kolbie on the other hand is fine just lounging in the water. She kicks her feet and makes splashes all around, but did NOT care for the waves! So she sat out working on her tan with her Aunt Meagan and Aunt B.

Our WIGGLY Adventure

2010-08-09T09:42:00.008-05:00

The Wiggles are in town, so we decided we would drop Little Miss Sunshine off at Grammy's house and have a Wiggly fun day with just Mommy, Daddy, and Our Sweet Boy.

Ryan and I have never even seen an episode of The Wiggles and had no idea clue who the characters were or any of their popular songs. So to start our Wiggly Adventure I had to do some research. We were pretty curious to know how well Kaylon would do with all the excitement and if he would participate.

He is definitely a people watcher like his Mama, but after the lights went down and the action started, it caught his attention. He joined in clapping, jumping, and dancing to the songs. There was a "strong song" that he was thrilled to join in and show his muscles! Crazy boy!

He tired out quick with no nap, so we ended up sneaking out 20 min early, but all in all it was tons of Wiggly fun for the family!