Tara's Family

State Fair 09

2009-10-17T17:55:00.004-05:00

Last Saturday we went to the State Fair in Little Rock. We have gone every year since Cole was little and since Makinleigh has been here she's gone with us. This year Shelley & Makinleigh went with us and we had a great time. The kids rode lots of rides. Hope enjoyed her first rides and wanted to ride and ride and ride! She didn't think she was "too little" to ride the "big kid" rides!! We ate lots of GOOD Food, too.

Notice Hope's face on the Tilt-a-whirl!

School Pic Day & Dance

2009-10-17T17:42:00.003-05:00

For Hope's school pictures I was a "mean" mama and made her sleep in foam rollers! We've done this once before for her dance recital, but not since. She actually slept in them all night. Her hair was sooooo curly and I had to get a pic cause I knew after school the curls would be gone! She had to include Bubba in one of the pics :) The other pic is from her first Dance lesson this year. She does not have "private" lessons this year :). There are 5 or 6 little girls in her class this year. She is so excited about every lesson. Not that she actually dances each week, but if we can keep her focused on the sucker she gets at the end - she does!

Also here's a pic from our Pike Co. fair parade. I didn't get many pics, but this one is of Tenille & I. I'm lovin' her working next door! Who would've thought we'd end up working next door to each other!

30th Birthday!

2009-10-17T16:54:00.003-05:00

Well on September 1 I entered my "30's" and I must be honest - I did have some difficulty and issues with the "number." Partly because my "20's" were gone, but also because if you had told me at age 18 that I'd be where I am at 30 - I wouldn't have believed it. I guess hind-sight is 20/20. I have definitely learned a lot in my 30 years, but probably more so in the last couple of years. Anyway I'm over the "30" shock now and have "accepted" it :) Here are some pics from my B-day party at the store. Loved my Cherry Cheesecake! Hope & Cole started my day by singing "Happy Birthday to Mama!" Hope loved helping me blow out the candles, too.

The pics are from 2 different concerts that Cole & I went to. One was at Magic Springs for Mercy Me and the other from Glory Revealed in Benton. Both were great, but Glory Revealed was such a neat experience. There were singers there from several groups: Mac Powell (Third Day), Aaron Shust, Mark Hall (Casting Crowns) & more. But all the songs were scripture and it was such a laid back aptmosphere. Loved being with my little man and worshiping God with him!!

1st day of school 2009

2009-10-15T21:11:00.004-05:00

Ok, Ok, just a Little bit behind!! This year school started on a Wednesday, which I thought was silly. But they didn't ask me. Just seemed like it messed up the week, I understand that the 1st few days of school they just hand out the books and stuff. Anyway, Hope started at the Christian school again and is in the K3 class. She's actually in the "younger" 3 year old class. There are 4 kids that are still 2 and the "younger" 3 year olds are in her class also. Her teacher Ms. Kerri says Hope doesn't think she's 2 :) Not sure if that's good or bad - but even thought she's the youngest again, she def. holds her own!

Cole started 5th grade this year and he is at Centerpoint Intermediate in Amity again - next year he'll move up to the high school - not sure if Mama is ready for that move! It's a little strange, because his homeroom/science teacher was my science teacher when I was in 5th & 6th grade just "a few years" ago!! I can remember 5th grade so well, because that is when we moved to Glenwood. So far he is enjoying the 5th grade, has had a couple of projects and I'm sure several more to go. The 1st nine weeks is coming up and I'm sure his grades will be Great again. I have such a smart lil' man!

Here are some pics from the 1st & 2nd day of school - one of our traditions :)

Branson 2009

2009-09-02T16:15:00.004-05:00

Before Summer ended, we took a little trip to Branson. Mom and I plus the kids had a great time! We stayed at the Castle Rock Resort, which has a indoor water park and the kids LOVED it. We also went on the Showboat Branson Belle and saw the Noah Musical. They were both GREAT! I wasn't sure how Hope would do during the shows, but she did fine. On the Branson Belle she even fell asleep before they served dinner, but woke up for the singing and dancing. She really enjoyed the Noah show too with all the animals. Mom and I were even able to do Lots of shopping for school With the kids. One trip we were lucky enough for Hope to sleep through the entire shopping trip! That does not happen very often... We wrapped up the trip with GoKart riding. Cole cannot go to Branson without riding Go Karts :) We went one round in separate Karts & Yes He beat ME!! He wouldn't let me live that down! The second round we shared a ride and he DROVE - not sure if I'm really ready for that in Real LIFE though!! We had a wonderful trip and it was a nice little get-away. Got Lots of cute pics as you can see.

Cheer Camp 09

2009-08-01T14:54:00.002-05:00

Here are some Fun Pics from Cheerleading camp. We went over to see Jordan @ camp a couple of nights this past week. Had a good time- brought back lots of memories. Hope Loved it. She thought she was part of the group! She was def. not shy - got up on the stage and shook her Booty lots!!

More Lake pics

2009-07-31T22:23:00.003-05:00

I love this! Mom actually took this pic. Usually she cuts people's heads off - but this time she caught All the action!! I feel like I do this all the time. I guess that's one of the joys of having a 10 yr old :)

After VBS last weekend, we took Makinleigh out to the lake for some fun on the boat! We had a great time tubing. Thanks Mom and Dad for taking the boat out for us. I did lose one of my fav. pairs of sunglasses. I insisted on wearing them while I was skiing, because I never fall - so I "never" lose them while I'm skiing! Well this time I DID fall- No not just fall - but Busted my hinny!! Face first into the water - bye bye glasses! Oh well, now I need to get a new pair of black shades :)

Motorcycle Trip

2009-07-11T17:14:00.004-05:00

Today (Sat. July 11) Cole and Pawpaw left on a motorcycle trip. They are heading for the Grand Canyon. Planning to be home by July 19. Dad is planning to get up early and ride till early afternoon each day till they get there. They will probably make several stops because Cole's booty is gonna get pretty sore :) Their goal for tonight is to stop in Oklahoma City. It will be an amazing trip. Cole has taken my old camera and hopefully will take lots of pics. I am going to miss them both very much. And have been saying many prayers for their safety!

One of the pics I took before they left was Hope and Cole hugging. She's gonna miss her Bubba and Pawpaw too! Pawpaw said "Bye Sugar." So she had to repeat that over and over to Cole and Pawpaw before they left :)

SummerTime 09

2009-07-11T16:43:00.002-05:00

These are some pics from June @ the water park in Arkadelphia. Love it there. Stuff for Cole and Hope to do. Plus u can still see everything/everyone from one chair/spot. Happy Summer!

Father's Day 2009

2009-06-24T15:01:00.004-05:00

This Father's Day we went to the lake with Mom and Dad on Sunday evening. It was still hot, but not as hot as it was earlier in the day. Hope took her 1st tube ride and wanted to until we took off... She didn't actually cry, but kept saying Nooooo, stoppppp. It was quite funny. She did so well in the boat - wearing her life jacket, sitting down while the boat was moving, & NOT crying when we jumped in the water. Cole practiced his kneeboarding, but is not willing to try skiing yet - maybe soon though :)

We also went to the lake to visit an old and special friend Tenille and her family who were camping. We had a good visit and need to do it more often!!

The other picture of Hope is after she emptied out her closet and gave it up and took a nap!

Dance, Dance, Dance 2009

2009-06-11T14:28:00.004-05:00

Last Saturday Night was a "Big" night for Hope. She had her 1st Dance Recital with Shannon's School of Dance. She is their youngest dancer and looked like a "Big" Star that night. Our goal for starting her in dance this year was just to get her used to the classes and dancing. We (her teachers & I) were not even sure if she'd do anything on stage. Lessons started last year and they began with "fun" dances to the Wiggles music (etc.). After the 1st of the year, they began teaching her the "Recital dances." She had 2 solos and was told she could join the other groups for 2 lil' group dances. She picked up the dances very quickly, but we still weren't sure if she'd do them on stage, at a different place, and by herself! Her costumes were soooo cute. But the 1st time we tried on the bikini we scratched her with the sequins & she wanted it OFF... I thought we'd never get her in it again. It took a lot of coaxing and practice but she ended up not wanting to take it off.

Week to week in dance practice, her performance all depended on her Mood, which I guess is normal for a 2 year old. Again, we had no idea what she might do on stage - if she would even get up there. I think her teachers were truely afraid she'd run and jump off the stage (Lots of energy). However, she had different plans.

Friday night was rehearsal and she did Great - didn't even want me on the stage. That was a good sign... Saturday we had an easy day and I made sure she took a nap (had to drive around). She even had to nap in her curlers... She loved putting on the makeup. Then in the dressing room she loved all of the other girls being there and getting ready too. I think she could feel the excitement! I was so nervous and I wasn't even doing anything.

She ended up doing her "ballet" first to the "Fishy Song." She went right out on stage all by her lonesome :) She "ate up" the clapping and yelling. She didn't really want to change clothes and was so ready to go back on stage! My aunt said I was def. given the wrong baby @ the hospital :) We were all amazed at how much she enjoyed it all.

Next was the Pirate group dance. There were 2 lil' girls group Pirate dances and actually I sent Hope out on the wrong one!! But she knew that dance too - thank goodness.

Her next dance was to a "Splish/Splash" and "Yellow Polka Dot Bikini" mix. She wore her "itsy-bitsy-teeny-weeny-yellow-polka-dot Bikini" and was a HIT! She was hilarious... She started out in the wash tub and jumped up when the music started then started shaking her booty!! She even climbed out of the tub by herself and performed her dance - even ad-libbing a lil' along the way. I could not quit laughing.

She finished up with another group number, got her toe stepped on by a tap shoe - but kept going!

We were so proud of her. She was the lil' Star I already knew she was! Cole was even shocked at how well she did :) I think he was just a little proud of his little sis...

Cole's GT trip

2009-05-29T22:01:00.002-05:00

May has also brought about several last minute field trips @ school. Cole had an Acc. Math field trip for achieving a # of objectives and an Acc. Reading trip for reading a set # of books for the year. Last but not least his G/T group went to Magic Springs. I went to this field trip. We all had a good time, but half of the rides were closed!! Even part of Crystal Falls was closed, that part was disappointing but overall they all had a good time.

Also, he had his end of the year awards @ school this week. He made the Principal's list again this last nine weeks (Pawpaw kids him and says the Principal's list must be all the kids that get sent to the Principal's office the most! haha) Not really Pawpaw!! It means he made All A's. He also got an award for getting all A's all year. I am so proud of him. Perseverance through adversity...

May Happenings

2009-05-29T21:20:00.002-05:00

Here are just a few pics I've captured over the last couple of weeks. Mom's b-day was on the 21st and we celebrated by taking her out to eat. One of the pics is of Hope next to the fish tank at the resturant - looks like the fish is giving her "fishy kisses" or as she would say "shishy tisses." In one she's modeling Pawpaw's hat and in the others she's enjoying her 1st "real" motorcycle ride with Pawpaw. Until that day she would only sit on his bike, not let him start it. For whatever reason, that day he asked her if she wanted to go for a ride and she said yes. She plugged her ears and she was READY. They rode down their driveway and back up - that's far enough for now as far as Mama is concerned...

Kentucky trip

2009-05-29T20:36:00.003-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, we traveled to Kentucky for my cousin Becky's wedding reception. She and her husband got married in Cancun in April. So the reception was just a celebration for those friends and family that were unable to make it all the way to Cancun. To Kirksey, Ky (which is where my aunt lives) is about 7.5 hours. Mom, Cole, Hope, Makinleigh and I made the trip. As I have posted before, Hope is NOT a good car traveler - trips to LR can be REALLy bad. So I was really dreading the LONG trip. But our Prayers were answered during the whole weekend. The traveling weather was perfect and so were the Travelers!! Hope never once tried to get out of her carseat. And Cole and Makinleigh were Super!! We made great time and had a great time when we got there. Friday night we made Lots of Fruit Skewers for the reception. Saturday night was the actual reception. It was overall a very quick trip with most of the time spent on the road, but it was nice to see family again and to celebrate the newlyweds again!

Mother's Day 2009

2009-05-24T18:25:00.003-05:00

I'm just a little behind in posting, but I'll catch up slowly I'm sure. This Mother's Day was special. I was blessed to have Makinleigh with us for the weekend. For those of you that don't know, her mother Deandra was my best friend and she passed away 7 years ago. Makinleigh is sooo special to me and we always have a lot of fun together. Cole and her are like brother and sister. I am her "Aunt Tara" and was so proud to have her with us on Mother's day. Her nana was out of town so she came to stay with us that weekend and the next.

After church we went with My Mama & Daddy to eat at Pearcy and had to wait a LONG time. It was worth the wait though. The food was Great and the kids were good too.

I am also very blessed to be able to see my Mama every day. She is such an inspiration to me and a great Friend too :) I Love you Mama!!

Another Fav.

2009-04-29T15:04:00.002-05:00

Mandisa
"Not Guilty"

I stand accused
There's a list a mile long
Of all my sins
Of everything that I've done wrong
I'm so ashamed
There's nowhere left for me to hide
This is the day
I must answer for my life
My fate is in the Judge's hands

(Chorus)
I know you
I love you
I gave My life to save you
Love paid the price for mercy
My verdict not guilty

How can it be?
I can't begin to comprehend
What kind of grace
Would take the place for all my sin?

I stand in awe
Now that I have been set free
And the tears well up
as I look at that cross
'Cause it should have been me

My fate was in the nail scarred hands
He stretched them out for me
and said

Chorus

I'm falling on my knees to thank You
With everything I am I'll praise You
So grateful for the words I heard
You say

Chorus

I haven't heard this one on KLove yet, just on her new album "Freedom." It's full of great songs. Hearing the words to this song come from Mandisa's voice is Amazing!! She was an American Idol contestant a few years ago, but I didn't see that season. I can't see How she Didn't Win. She's Great. On this year's American Idol they talk about feeling the emotion in the song, etc. That's something about Mandisa - you can Feel her emotion coming out in her songs.

Beautiful song...Beautiful Message...Thank You Jesus

New Fav. Song

2009-04-29T14:42:00.003-05:00

The Motions by Matthew West

This might hurt
It's not safe
But I know that I've gotta make a change
I don't care
If I break
At least I'll be feeling something
"˜Cause just ok
Is not enough

Help me fight through the nothingness of life
I don't wanna go through the motions
I don't wanna go one more day
Without Your all consuming passion inside of me
I don't wanna spend my whole life asking
What if I had given everything?
Instead of going through the motions

No regrets
Not this time
I'm gonna let my heart defeat my mind
Let Your love
Make me whole
I think I'm finally feeling something

Take me all the way
Take me all the way
Take me all the way

Matthew West is Such an Awesome writer. I am loving this song right now - says SO much. U can catch it on KLove I'm sure.

Cancun - April 2009

2009-04-18T13:50:00.013-05:00

My cousin Becky got married in Cancun on April 15 and we were able to go and be a part of her special day. Originally, the resort where they were staying and having the wedding did not allow kids. But at the beginning of the year, they found out that they had made a portion of the resort for families. So Becky asked if Hope & Cole could be her flower girl and ring bearer. Mom and Dad had already planned to go so we decided to join them. Cole is such a "traveler" - he's always up for a trip, especially if there's swimming involved. I wasn't too sure how Hope was going to do on the planes, because she not the greatest Car traveler.

Our plans were to spend the night in Little Rock Sunday evening (Easter) and leave on the airplane to Atlanta about 7:30am. We were scheduled to actually arrive in Cancun @ 1:30pm. Everything was fine until we got closer to Atlanta when we went into a storm. That had to be the WORST Flight I've ever been on - the turbulence was terrible! We had not been in the air very long before a lady in front of Mom and Cole started Puking. To add to all this, Hope decided she needed to poop a Hundred times while on this flight!! When we actually got to Atlanta the pilot attempted to land (I could see the runway out my window - very close to the ground) and then pulled the plane back up I guess because we were swaying so much. Needless to say I was ready to get OFF that plane. I was beginning to feel queasy too. I don't do well when Hearing & Smelling puke + Poop + Roller Coaster motions. Our plane was rerouted to Chattanooga TN - that meant another 30 min. in the air. I went to the bathroom trying to escape the smells, but it didn't help much. When I got back to my seat, I needed a "barf bag" - 2 actually. The whole time I was sick Hope was saying "OK Mama? OK?" Really sweet, but her 100th poopy diaper had set me OFF! Anyway I felt much better after that. We had to wait about 30 minutes in Chattanooga and then headed back to Atlanta. By then we had missed our connecting flight to Cancun...

Poor Dad had to talk to several agents before finding out that the only flight to Cancun was leaving @ 6:05 pm (which ended up being delayed an hour) and we were on Standby. We had lots of time to kill in the Airport - not even knowing if we were going to get on the flight. After a couple hours we did find out we had confirmed seats - Thank God (that wasn't the 1st time I had thanked Him that day!) Thank goodness for DVD players and Dora the Explorer!! Amazingly Hope and Cole were great during the super Long day. Anyway we did finally make it to Cancun @ 9:00. We made it to the resort about 10:30 or 11pm.

The resort was Fabulous!!! All inclusive, gorgeous setting and surroundings, 24 hour room service, hot tub in room, hammocks on the balcony & Big Lizards! A little something for Everyone :)

Tuesday we all met for Breakfast then Uncle Bob, Becky, Shawn(her husband), Dad &

Cole went on a Mayan Ruins tour. Aunt Jane, Mom, Hope and I hung out by the pool and ocean all day. Very relaxing... That evening they had a "Pirate Show" that was very entertaining - although Hope feel asleep during it :)

Wednesday - Wedding Day 6:00pm - met for breakfast again then hung around the pool and ocean while Aunt Jane, Becky, Angie, and Amber got ready for the wedding.

The ocean was blocked by a large rock wall that allowed water into a cove area, in which you could snorkel and swim and kayak. Dad and Cole snorkeled then Cole and I kayaked. We then went to our rooms to rest before the wedding.

Cole and Hope were to carry large shells containing the rings and rose petals. Becky and her dad rode to the Wedding gazebo in a carriage pulled by a white horse (Gorgeous - like a fairytale). Cole and Hope went before the bridesmaids (Angie - Becky's sister- my other cuz and Amber - Becky's good friend). Hope did not want to drop the petals - she did accidently and went back to pick it up! It was a beautiful ceremony... Becky was stunning of course.

After the wedding, we all had dinner @ the steak house in the resort. It was a nice time to visit with everyone and of course EAT! Hope kept Amber's little boy Jacob entertained. I think they liked each other just a little bit!!

Thursday - We were scheduled to leave the resort @ 9:30 to head to the airport, but didn't leave till after 10am. We actually left the airport in Cancun around 1:30pm. Good Flight too!! I thought we were home free after that!! After getting to Atlanta we had to go through customs and all that stuff - so it took a while. When we got to our next terminal, Cole realized he had left his PSP (playstation portable) on the plane!!! He's only had it a few weeks and bought it with his Bday money (he's been saving for a while). He's was Very upset to say the least. So Dad came to the rescue Again and began the process of trying to find it, by talking to the Delta agents and calling Lost and Found - which he could never get through to!! At that point all we knew was that our plane had already left and it was not turned in to the gate we landed at. Our flight back to LR was much better too - Hope slept the whole way :)

But when we got to LR, we found out our luggage did not come with us!! It did arrive on the next flight @ 11:00pm. We didn't wait on it, because they couldn't tell us for sure that it would be on that flight. Mom and Cole went back to LR on Friday and picked it up :)

SO, The actual trip there and back was Very Exciting, but the stay was great. The resort was awesome, people were so friendly, and it was beautiful. Hope will defintely have an interesting story to hear about her 1st plane ride/trip...

**Enjoy all the pics :)

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Easter 2009

2009-04-17T20:48:00.004-05:00

Our Family Easter gathering was in Glenwood this year at Mom & Dad's house. We had it on Saturday this year because it was more convenient for everyone to get together. We enjoyed the food, fellowship, & hunting eggs. Right now our youngest kiddos are girls (4 under 4 years old). Only 3 of the girls were there this year and again I was amazed at how well they play together. Yes, there are moments of no sharing, but overall they do very well together. Cole also hunted eggs, but spent the rest of the time hanging with cousin Jacob.

That evening we began packing for our trip to Cancun. We headed to Little Rock Sunday afternoon to stay the night, because we had to be at the airport so early Monday morning.

Zoo Trip

2009-04-01T22:10:00.005-05:00

This week is Spring Break + 1st of the month = free week for kids and busy week @ work for me. I took off Monday so we could at least have 1 day together to do something "fun" on break. Cole decided he wanted to see a movie and after some brainstorming we decided on seeing a movie "Monsters vs Aliens" in Little Rock then going to the Zoo afterwards. Then we asked Courtney if she and Boston wanted to meet us there - they did.

It was a Gorgeous day and we all had a blast. This was Hope's and Boston's first trip to the zoo. I think Hope may have enjoyed it just "a little" bit more than Boston (he slept through most of it :) ) Hope had to tell every animal HI and Bye Bye. All morning she kept saying "I wanna ooooo" - translates into I want to go to the zoo! Not sure if she even knew what that was till we got there. She loved the animals and the outdoors. I think Cole had a good time too - he kept ahead of us - informing us on what was coming up next.

I think Cole's highlight of the day was getting to hold Baby Boston. He talked about that a lot on the way home :) Even Hope had to tell Mimi about the "oooo and Baby nite nite and Baby Mama" - translation again "zoo, Baby Boston was asleep, and Aunt Courtney was there aka Boston's mama!!

The car ride to and from was great. I was very thankful for the uneventful trip. It was a special day - got to spend it with my Special children and with a Special friend and new "nephew."

Next Tiger???

2009-04-01T21:38:00.006-05:00

Sunday afternoon Cole decided it was a nice day for golf. We didn't have time after church for a full golf game before church that evening so we just went to the driving range. Hope and I cheered him on for about an hour (actually maybe less than that). He practiced for about an hour. Hope cheered then she would pick up "trashhh" and put it in the trash can :) It was such a beautiful day. Cole really seems to enjoy golf - who knows - may be the next Tiger???

Happy Bday Madelyn!!

2009-03-29T21:52:00.005-05:00

This past Sat. we traveled to our cousin's Madelyn's 3rd Birthday party. She had a "Princess" party and fun was had by all. The girls played dress-up and danced around like Pros! In our family, the last 4 babies have been girls and they are each about 1 year apart. The youngest just turned 1 yr but she lives out of state. I'm sure if she lived here she would join right in the little group. As they have grown it has been interesting to watch them play together and interact. At the party I was very surprised by how well they played and worked together. Madelyn had Lots of help opening her presents and didn't seem to mind it. By the Way, Cole had fun too - Ryan let him ride his 4-wheeler :) Family is GREAT!!

Jonquil Festival in Old Washington 2009

2009-03-23T15:12:00.003-05:00

We went to the Jonquil Festival in Old Washington on Saturday. It was a gorgeous day. It was a pretty quick trip but got some pretty pictures and ate some good food. Most of the daffodils had gone away (I thought it was a little late this year) but we found one hill that had some pretty ones left. Maybe next year we'll make it up to Wye Mountain. I've been hesitant about going up there because of the distance. Hope is still not a great car rider. Thanks Dad for going with us = big Help...

UNDEFEATED CHAMPIONS!!

2009-03-06T23:06:00.003-06:00

They did it!! The 4th grade Gold Knights team won the Mt. Pine tournament and finished their season Undefeated. Tonight they played Mt. Pine (this was their 1st yr to play bball but they were very good) @ 6:30 and won. Then they had to play the other Centerpoint 4th grade team (they split them into 2 teams last yr and this yr b/c there were so many boys playing) who was also undefeated until their last regular season game which they lost. This ended up being the Championship game - Centerpoint vs. Centerpoint! It was a very close game but we finally pulled ahead in the 4th quarter. I am still pumped up about it - that's why I posting this soooo late - Just HAD to get it on here... I am very proud of our boys - they have all improved over the season and seemed to enjoy themselves out there. Cole even took a couple of shots tonight, stole the ball and had some good rebounds. I could see his confidence building :) I do have to say that I am just a little hoarse after the games tonight (of course i was yelling Positive/encouraging things though :) Congratsulations Cole and the Knights!!

Congrats 4th grade Gold Knights!

2009-03-04T13:44:00.002-06:00

I just wanted to say a BIG Congratsulations to Cole's pee-wee Basketball team. They finished the regular season UNDEFEATED!! That included 11 games total. They play in a Tournament @ Mt. Pine Friday night and we'll see if they continue this record. They have practiced very hard this season and it has shown. They have also had a very patient and encouraging coach. I don't think I'd have that much patience with 10 - 10 yr old boys!!! I will post his BBALL pic later.

Antique Pics

2009-03-04T13:08:00.004-06:00

The Christian School had a fundraiser @ which the kids had "Antique" pics made. They turned out so cute and were actually taken on Hope's B-day. I thought I'd post a few. Enjoy....

Valentine Parties

2009-02-19T11:18:00.003-06:00

The kids did have Valentine Parties at school. Hope's was in the morning and Cole's in the afternoon - so I was able to make it to both. They both had a great time and got waaaayy too much candy. I know Cole doesn't look thrilled in his pic but he was sooooo happy his Mama came to his party :) (not being sarcastic at all - he was happy to be leaving early though)

Must be Feelin' Better?

2009-02-19T10:58:00.004-06:00

I suppose Hope must be feeling better. She stayed with Mom and Dad Wednesday and when I went to visit @ lunch she did a little showing out :) She has been very hesitant about riding Cole's FP Harley Davidson motorcycle. Up to this point, she'd only sit on it and push the buttons to make noise. But yesterday she rode around on it!! In a circle I might add - she hasn't quite figured out how to steer it yet. She even got brave and stood UP while driving - I think Pawpaw is going to have to give her a lesson in Motorcycle riding :) She also wanted to get up on the hill and ride down like Bubba does on his bike!! I think she's going from one extreme to the other! She is def. feeling better. I know it looks bad - she's just in her diaper, outside in February, but it was so nice out and her clothes were being washed (she'd had an accident). Notice though, she does have her Bow in!! I think she just may be Pawpaw's little Biker Baby!

Out of commission...

2009-02-18T15:52:00.001-06:00

It seems like I've been out of this world for a While! Hope came down with the Stomach virus last Friday evening and I was at home till Tuesday with her. Cole got sick Monday night, luckily his was much shorter that hers. He went back to school Wednesday. Evidentally there is A Lot of stuff going around school, because half of his B-ball team was sick and missed their game last Saturday, which made it "a little" stressful for their coach! I will be so glad when it's Spring - we can open the windows, get outside, and let the germs OUT!

Congrats Courtney!!

2009-02-11T15:39:00.002-06:00

Just wanted to share that my Bff Courtney had a beautiful baby boy yesterday, Boston Gavin. I am so happy for her and Kyle, they have soooo much to look forward to.

Missy Prissy

2009-02-08T18:41:00.004-06:00

Here are a few more pics of Hope. She is modeling some of her "dress-up" stuff that her Daddy got her for her Birthday. **Notice the Earrings - I figured those would stay on a Minute or less, but she kept them on for a long time. In one of the pics she was having a hard time keeping her "Heels" on. The others are from Cole's bball game @ Kirby Saturday. She loves getting in that Cheerleader suit!! This time it was warm enough so she didn't have to wear tights - which I love cause I got to see her little chubby legs (so cute).

Happy 2nd Birthday Hope!

2009-02-03T20:51:00.008-06:00

Morning of Bday

Little Miss Hope had a wonderful Birthday. Since her bday was Friday, we had a little party @ school for her class. Then the main celebration was on Saturday @ "The Hop" in Glenwood (it's a burger/ice cream diner) for cake and ice cream. It was a full day, Cole had a bball game in Murfreesboro that morning. Luckily she napped on the way home from the game. She had lots of fun at the party and I was surprised how well it all went. I was afraid we may have a couple "2 year old meltdowns" about something. But we didn't and she didn't even mind help when opening her presents!! And she was fairly neat while eating her cake - she didn't eat much - just icing. Her party theme was "The Wonder Pets." She received lots of gifts - if we had let her she would've opened each box to get a closer look, but we kept pushing her along :)

She had her 2 yr. check-up Thursday. She weighs 26.2 lbs and is 34.5 inches tall. This puts her in the 75% for her age. Which is up from her last check-up, last time she was in 50%. She is wearing Size 5 diapers and getting interested in the potty - sometimes! She wears 24mo/2T in clothes and size 6 in shoes. She is saying a lot more words. NO is her favorite right now, but she has many in her vocabulary. The funniest is to watch her try to say "Open" - she tries to copy my mouth and her Oooo is sooo cute.

It is amazing how "girly" she is... purses, babies, jewelry, dressup, dancing... but on the other hand she is a "tough girl" too. She doesn't mind getting dirty and rarely cries when she falls. She's is a good eater. Likes cheese, apples (she calls them "bapples" along with grapes), bananas and grapes and honeybuns and goldfish(aka..shishes) a lot. She still will not drink milk - so we push the cheese and yogurt. She is branching out from just water though - drinking some juice/punch @ school. At home, she'll drink V8 splash and loves it. She gets up around 7:00 in the morning and lays down about 8:00 every night and sleeps all night. Her baby bed is so full of babies, glow-worm, curious george, glow-bear and blankies - I don't know how she has any room but she INsists they ALL stay in there! She def. knows what she wants... may have something to do with being 2!!!!

Here comes Hope...

2009-01-29T21:19:00.006-06:00

The 1st pic is from my Due Date-Jan. 26 and the 2nd pic is from night before she was born Jan. 29

I just wanted to reminisce a little about the joy and "Hope" that came into our lives 2 years ago. I was actually due January 26, but she 4 days late. Much easier delivery than Cole's. She came into the world Tuesday, January 30 2007 @ 10:35am. She weighed 9lbs. & 19 3/4 inches long.

These pics show how Large I was, oh well - she was worth it. The one with Cole standing by the warmer is soooo sweet - just a few minutes old & he's already adoring her :) Actually she was crying a little when he came into the room after she was born and started talking to her and she turned her head toward him and hushed!! He was very good about talking to my belly :) She already loved her Bubbba...

These 2 years have FLOWN by, she has been such a good baby. She is definitely coming into "her own" lately - very independent Personality. I had to laugh when i saw the pic of me & her "Pooped Out" - looking back - it was soooo exhausting...

Hope's Bday party is Saturday afternoon - so I'll have lots of pics to post from tomorrow and Sat. We're also having a little party @ school tomorrow.

Silly "Almost" 2 yr old

2009-01-26T21:49:00.003-06:00

Tonight after Hope's bath she made me crack up again. Her head must have been cold because she created a new hat for herself... using her diaper. It reminds me of George Washington hair/wig! She left it on for quite a while, while she played with her lotion. I can't believe she'll be 2 Years Old this Friday!! Acutally today (the 26th) was my due date, when that date passed I was scheduled to be induced on the 30th. I actually went into labor by myself on the 30th and didn't have to be induced. Not looking forward to the "terrible twos" but looking foward to Loving Every Moment of it - they grow 2 fast!!

More BBall Game pics

2009-01-26T21:19:00.003-06:00

Here are a few Pictures from Cole's basketball game last Saturday. Centerpoint played Kirby and Cole's team won their game. They played very well. Cole actually shot a couple times (didn't make them), but that he actually shot the ball and dribbled was Great! Anyone who knows me and my basketball skills knows that shooting the ball was not my favorite thing to do. It wasn't that I couldn't shoot it - but that I was afraid I'd miss (that "perfection-thing" I guess). I'm afraid that I have passed that along to my son. It's amazing how much he reminds me of myself out on the court! I hear my mother coming out in me during his games!!! "SHOOT THE BALL!!" "Get YOUR hands UP!" I have finally realized my yelling is not helping a lot - PLUS I AM videoing these games. When we go back to watch these, I really don't want to hear my loud mouth yelling!! Anyway He's having fun and learning a lot. GO KNIGHTS!!Beau & Hope are classmates @ the Christian School. It's so funny when they see each other outside of school - they're so confused about it for a minute or two. Hope wanted to go sit by Beau @ Cole's ballgame even though she didn't know the people he was sitting with :)

Smart Boy

2009-01-19T21:04:00.003-06:00

I have failed to mention what a smart young man I have! He received his report card for the 2nd 9 weeks and made All A's Again. I am so proud of him. He has made all A's on every report card so far... He worked hard this last 9 weeks - at midterm he had a low B in one class because of a bad test, but he worked hard and brought it up to an A. He's trying to talk me into paying him for his grades (some friends get paid for theirs'). I'm not convinced yet. I did end up buying him another Wii remote, but I'm not sure that it counts :) Congratulations Cole, I'm proud of you!

Just Call me Sleppy Pippy

2009-01-18T19:15:00.005-06:00

After church today I played with Hope's hair a little bit and managed to get 2 Little Braids. Her hair has gotten a lot longer. I've been able to put it in Pigtails for a while, but decided to try to braid them today and we were successfull - Even if they stuck straight out!! She looks like Pippy Longstocking (i think that's her name :) I was very surprised that she left them alone.

After that I went about my usual chores and she wandered into Cole's room which she does often. She was looking at some of his books. She loves to be in his room (i think because she knows it Bugs him) and usually pulls lots of books off his shelves to look at. As I was going between bathrooms cleaning, I noticed she had laid her head down - I thought she was just resting for a minute. But when she staying that way after a couple of trips I realized she had fallen asleep like that. I figured it would be a short little nap, but it lasted for 2 HOURS!! The only move she made was straightening out her legs :) She needed a nap & I needed her to take that nap! Needless to say, Cole was "locked" out of his room for a couple of hours.

Busy Saturday

2009-01-18T18:18:00.008-06:00

Cole #55

Last Saturday was a busy one. We started the day with a basketball game @ Caddo Hills. Cole is playing on one of Centerpoint's 4th grade boys' teams. They played very well and won. We will have a ball game every Sat. (and some during the week) from now till March. After the ball game we headed to Greenbrier for Bella Boo's 1st Birthday party. We had a great time seeing everyone. Hope was a "bit" stingy with Bella's toys not to mention she had to help open Every gift! I really hope she outgrows some of that :) We also got to meet Miss Georgia - such a beauty... Thanks Amanda for inviting us and being so patient with Hope!!

Amanda, Bella, Hope, & Georgia

Padgett Family Christmas

2009-01-07T21:59:00.007-06:00

Last Saturday we (Padgett family) met in Rison for our "family" Christmas. This is one of the many times we get together during the year. For as long as I can remember this has been a tradition. My dad is one of five children, so it's no small get-together and I love it - always have. It's a time that always brings back so many great memories. From my cousin & I rolling our Maw-maw's & aunt's hair (don't really remember that - but Love the pics showing it) to now getting to watch my kids play with my cousins' kids and know that the tradition is continuing.

I get choked-up thinking about this, but I remember sitting with my Mawmaw(several years ago) after a funeral or something we were all together for (not a holiday) and we were just watching everyone talk and be loud... and she put her sweet hand on my leg and said "You make sure this continues after I'm gone." It was one of those "moments" I knew she was serious and what she meant. At that moment we were witnessing something that she "treasured" and she did not want that to end & neither do I. I assured her that it would continue and it was just as important to us as it was to her. Being together as a family was so important to her and I know she would be proud that are keeping that tradition alive. It is definitely different without her there, but her loving spirit lives through her children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren (whom she would love to rock and rock). Even though everyone is busy, we still managed to find a time to get together (after lots of discussion on a date :) My uncle Phil and his family weren't able to be there this year, because of his deployment to Afghanistan.

It's strange but this is not how I had planned for this post to be, but I guess that's what was in my heart...

Madelyn carrying Hope's present, Hope carrying Madelyn's cats :)

My Cole and My Mawmaw

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T21:43:00.004-06:00

It's hard to believe 2008 is almost gone.... so many changes (the good, bad, & ugly). I cannot believe how fast time is going (I know I'm sounding like an OLD person), but REALLY - this year has Flown by. I think once you have kids it goes so much faster. I still find it hard to believe that I'm old enough to have a 10 year old (DOUBLE digits!). It still feels like yesterday I was in high school (sort of...). Oh well, time doesn't stop. I'm sure 2009 will go by just as fast, I just pray that I will slow down more and enjoy the little things. It's so easy to fly through certain events/holidays/birthdays because of all the planning & anticipation associated with it and then when they're over you feel like you've missed something. This holiday season has been filled with excitement and anticipation thankfully.

I am looking forward to continuing the Christmas celebration with my family this weekend. As for New Years, Hope is already asleep (down about 8:00) and I doubt Cole & I make to midnight - but we'll get it a try...

Here are a few pics from bath tonight, yesterday was Hope's 23month Bday - only 1 month away from being 2 Years old!! I usually try to take her month Bday pics in the bath, but she was not happy in her bath last night so here you go...

Happy New Years - wishing you all many Blessings in 2009!!

10 Years Old

2008-12-28T20:39:00.002-06:00

Today My Baby Boy is 10 years old. Each year on his birthday, we talk about the details of his birth...sometimes we watch his birth video (haven't done that yet this year). For those that don't know....Cole Taylor Hargrove was born December 28, 1998 - weighing 8lbs. 7oz. 21in long. He was born @ 1:35am. We arrived at the hospital @ 1:00pm on the 27th - LONG labor. It's so funny on the video, about every hour we'd say "He's Almost Here..." he was face-up so supposedly harder to push out (Hope was that way too). The miracle of birth is still amazing to me - especially for a 1st time mom - the moment you hold that precious bundle, it all comes natural. I really believe it's a "God-thing."

So today we celebrated this Milestone Bday by going to church & Pizza Shack, of course, then gathered @ the PaintBall Park by the river for his Party. Every other year we have had a party some place where we've invited all family & his friends for pizza, bowling (last yr), etc. I've tried to make it as separate from Christmas as possible (if that's possible). This year was a little different, just inviting a few boys from school & his cousins. The kids had to be 10yrs old to play so that cut down on the numbers too. Anyway, the party went well. Some friends we'd invited were out of town, so some of the adults joined in on the Fun! This was the 1st time most of them had played PaintBall & I think they Loved IT!! We enjoyed the beautiful day by having his cake and ice cream by the river too. We never know what to expect for the weather around his Bday & today could not have been more Perfect - Sunshine & 60 degrees. Hope stayed with Mimi & Pawpaw during the party, but joined us for cake.

I am soooo proud of my Little Man and have so enjoyed being the "main" girl in his life. I am praying the God is preparing a strong, Christian girl for his future. I love you Cole - I hope you have many, many more Happy Birthdays.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-26T21:35:00.000-06:00

Well, here goes...'

I've been enjoying everybody elses' blogs for awhile now. So now I'm going to start my own. With the new year coming soon, what better time to document events in mine & my kids lives. We have been through several changes in the last several months and I'm sure this next year will bring even more. I am confident that with God's help, love, & guidance it will be a year to remember!

I will be posting lots of pictures... for those of you that know me that shouldn't be a surprise (I Love my Pics).

By the way - My Baby Boy will be turning 10 on Sunday - CAN You Believe it!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY COLE!