Monday, August 21, 2006

Happy Anniversary Honey! I know my post is late but we have been busy this week already. Mike and I celebrated 7 years of marriage yesterday and were able to go out to dinner and stroll around a bookstore without looking in the children's section first. Who would have known that this would be our life back in 1993 when we had our first date. It's been a great journey and I look forward to many more years!

For fun we set some next year resolutions that applied to our marriage and family. I won't divulge them to everyone in case we totally forget about them. If we do live up to them I will post them as we accomplish them. What fun for you all to wonder what they are!!!

Sunday, August 20, 2006

Happy 40th Birthday Barry!!!

Today we celebrated Barry's 40th birthday with everyone here at our house. It was such fun and we even sent Barry on a scavenger hunt. Barry ended up with 40 packs of nabs, 40 bottles of water, 40 packs of gum, 40 swiss cake rolls, 40 packs of Golden cheese, 40 bottles of beer, and 40 hershey's kisses. We also had 40 balloons and 40 candles on his cake. Needless to say we also had a great spread of food to devour. Barry was a great sport and seemed to enjoy all the jokes about his age (and there is only one brother left under the 40 year mark, who will get his grief in a couple of years).

Landon and Ella enjoy a party just as much as anyone, but most of all they get excited about having some cake. Ella only ate watermelon for dinner, she refused everything else, and then ended up eating almost a whole piece of brown sugar pound cake with chocolate icing. Picture - check out her "soul patch". Thanks to Barry's girlfriend Cathy Lee who brought her first ever homemade cake (chocolate chip cake). Of course Mike gave her a hard time but I think he ended up eating two pieces.

I would have to say that I was the big loser for the day as I took a bunch of pictures all afternoon of the festivities and after the candles were blown out I figured out that I never had my memory stick in the camera and had no pictures from the day. Hopefully it won't be a sign of my week to come as I have a lot to get done this week. I'll keep you posted...........

Friday, August 18, 2006

A great way to wrap up a week. Today we headed to Mount Airy to visit our friends. We have been lucky to see them twice this week. Jackson started school this week so we missed him but Landon and Ben had a great time together. We walked down to Main St. and visited Mike's train store that we had heard so much about. Landon was thrilled to be able to play with Thomas trains and is very excited that his friend Ben is a Thomas fan too. They played and played while Ella explored what she could pick up and how many blueberries she could eat. They even got to see an electric train that had a light and smoke coming out of the funnel. (that's Amy holding both boys to see the train). From there we walked down the street to the hardware store to play outside on all of their Radio Flyer wagons and bikes. I think the kids most liked the bells but tried to take them for a spin as well. Ella is quite the little diva as she sits in the wagon. After we heard Delane arrive on his motorcycle, we hopped on over to the Blue Bird Diner for some lunch. Landon and Ben enjoyed the dinosaur nuggets and especially the ice cream while Ella enjoyed being held by Amy and getting to eat her ice cream. It was so fun that Landon cried and cried about leaving. The whole way home he said "I don't want to go home, I want to stay at Miss Amy's house with Ben". We spent the rest of the evening at home hanging out with Dad.

There are a couple of pictures from earlier in the week. Landon and Ella had swimming lessons again on Thursday and Landon did wonderfully. We strapped a little float belt around his waist and he swam all around the pool by himself. Ella didn't mind the lesson that night because we were only in the water for 15 minutes. Only two more lessons and we will be off to the beach. The other picture is of Ella walking around with the phone, one of her favorite toys. She just holds it and talks and talks. Guess it's a preview of years to come.

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.

Wednesday, August 16, 2006

Well Tuesday was a packed day with lots of excitement. We had playgroup in the morning which is always a lot of fun. Landon and Ella both enjoy the specific playground we go to due to the shade, lots of swings, area to use the sidewalk chalk, sand to play in, and lots of fun equipment. I hurried from there to the grocery store. I am a weirdo in that I love to grocery shop but can't stand to shop for anything else. However, I must admit that it is a whole different experience when you have both little ones with you. The bright side was that I was able to use all of the little buttons (except panic) on my car remote and boy that made it a ton easier. I had both doors open and the rear hatch open before I could unbuckle Ella from the cart. I love those gadgets but still can't get used to a majority of the other ones, specifically the navigation and talking.

After nap time we headed to swimming lessons. Tonight, both kids were cold in the 85 degree water and didn't want to stay any longer than necessary. Ella did a lot better tonight because Mike held her and he radiates heat more than I do and she was so cozy she almost fell asleep in the water. Landon was done after we had to try lifejackets on. From there Mike headed to dinner with the kids and some family while I headed to my monthly girl's night out. Everyone had a great time but we were all exhausted by the end of the day.

Today we took it easy and just hung out at home spending a lot of time downstairs climbing on chairs, playing ball, golfing, and playing Candy Land. I talked with Landon about his birthday and have been quizzing him on what theme he wants. For several days now it has been Thomas AND Veggie Tales as he says "I like them both very much" and today he decided that since it is his 3rd birthday that he wants 3 themes - Thomas, Veggie Tales and Nemo. I am trying to come up with a creative way to tie all 3 things together. Luckily I have a talented cake maker in the family and a dollar store nearby - should be interesting.

Monday, August 14, 2006

Starting the week off right! Sunday was a pretty laid back day with church, naps, racing, and a cookout. We had a great time and Landon and Ella provided lots of entertainment for the Deacon's picnic. They danced and ran around all of the time (except for when they were eating). They had lots of fun and enjoyed being in the center of attention.

Today we went to the Children's Museum with our friends Amy, Jackson and Benjamin. The kids had such a wonderful time that they were all upset when we had to leave. I think Jackson's favorite was climbing the beanstalk. Ella's favorite was playing in the dirt and sand outdoors. She was so dirty that she needed a bath while we were there buy had to settle for a baby wipe cleaning. I think Landon and Benjamin liked everything and just had a great time playing together. For me it was just great to be able to catch up with Amy and kind of surreal to see our children playing together as we used to.

I thought for sure that Ella would come home and take a 3 hour nap after such a full morning but shortly after an hour she was up and at them and soon proved that she should have napped longer. Landon only played a half a game of Candy Land today which so far is the least he has played since Friday. It may have been because we were so busy and also because Ella was up the whole time. It's a little more challenging to play with Ella as she runs off with all of the pieces and cards if she can get her hands on them.

Tomorrow is a busy day I need a lot of rest.

Saturday, August 12, 2006

Cooler weather, thank you!!! Too bad I didn't wait until Friday to clean the van as I may not have sweated so much. Instead we ran a few errands, one of which was to buy the game CandyLand for Landon. He was so excited about getting home to play it that he didn't want to eat lunch or do anything else but play the game. He had been introduced to it several months ago at a playdate with Hannah and has never mentioned it but I thought it would be fun. I didn't quite know how much fun it was going to be as it has been a CandyLand marathon around here. If we aren't trying to go somewhere or eat a meal then Landon wants to play and Mike and I have both had the thrill to play 3 games in one sitting. I do admit that it is fun to see him so excited and maybe he is on the road to becoming a board game junkie. He even does ok when Mike or I win but quickly says that he thinks he will win the next one.

Outside of playing CandyLand we were able to go out to dinner with a couple of friends last night which was a lot of fun. They both have little boys that are close to Ella's age. In the picture the little boy in the blue overalls is Hank (we lovingly call him Tank) as he is only 5 days older than Ella but quite a bit bigger. I think he has a future in the NFL and he is as cute as can be. The other little boy is J.D. and is a sweetheart, last night he even shared a cracker with me but I think he was surprised that I ate it as he didn't offer any more.

We played outside this afternoon enjoying the cooler temperatures. We had to finish getting the van ready to sell and had a fun time washing it together with Landon's help. He was trying to make his Uncle Damion proud with his handling of the hose. Believe it or not, Landon stayed dry and only sprinkled Daddy once. Ella stayed busy with other activities including posing for the camera.

Thursday, August 10, 2006

If you took a picture of me now you would all run away in fear and disgust. I have just come inside to take a 10 minute break from the raging sun. I decided this morning that since it was a little cooler and overcast at the time that I would clean out the "blue van" and get it ready to sell. With kids in tow and my clothes from yesterday on (no sense in putting on clean clothes when you are going to sweat a river) I take our vacuum and start at it. I didn't get very far as every other minute Ella would bring her watering can to me or set off in the bushes herself to get to the spigot and I would have to stop and fill her watering can up to watch her pour it all over herself in delight. This is the same girl who quivers in the 85 degree indoor pool during swimming lessons but will pour cold spigot water all overherself and keep coming back for more. I was worried that I would have to use those famous eyes in the back of my head that I hear all mothers have, however, most of the time the kids were right behind me or Landon was asking what he could pour water on next. So after about an hour of vacuuming for 10 seconds then filling watering cans back and forth I called it a morning and headed in to change wet clothes and fix lunch. After lunch, playtime, potty time and nap time for the kids I headed back out to finish vacuuming. In the midst of all of the work I came up with a new idea for the day, it is to take that press and seal saran wrap and cover all of the floor in the van especially around the kids carseats so as to avoid any more hot days with the vacuum - I'll let you know if it works :-) Now all I have to do is wash the outside and wipe down all of the non-upholstered parts. Maybe soon it will look like there weren't a pack of wild animals living in it.

I also feel that I must confess that last night for Mike's birthday he didn't get a lovely birthday dinner, instead a burger from Sonic with a side of tater tots. I am hoping to pay the raincheck he so graciously offered due to the kids being really cranky and Nannie Ro (who was here) who was not feeling all too well. I owe you honey and look forward to a nice meal together sometime soon.

As for now, I am going to head back out to finish my job of cleaning the van before I jump in a cold shower, wake the kids from their naps and head to swimming lessons. I know tonight will be a great night to tuck in early and sleep. Have a great day everyone!

Wednesday, August 9, 2006

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE MAN OF MY DREAMS, the one I love, the father of my children, the strength of our family, and the list can go on!! I am being a little too sappy so on to the fun. Yesterday evening we celebrated Mike's birthday with family and although they were not all here we had them all in our heart. It was amazing that we went to swimming lessons and when we returned to our house there was a spread of steaks, salad, potatos, bread, pineapple, etc... waiting for us to just dig in. We wrapped up the evening with Mike's favorite brown sugar poundcake with chocolate icing - a family recipe made from accident. We had a great time and thanks to everyone for such a wonderful dinner and time to celebrate.

I just thought for today I would make a list about Mike to honor him on his birthday, all the descriptions that Landon, Ella, and I thnk of when we think of him!

Funny
Husband
Silly
Clown
Laid back
Handsome
Funny
Singer
Father
Spoiled
Daddy
Best friend
Funny
Character
Integrity
Strong
Humorous
Christian
Funny
Leader
Republican
Nappy
Spiritual
Loving
Funny
Caring
Jokester
Sports fan
Gadget guru
Hard working
Funny
Kind
Provider
Supportive
Clown
Intelligent
and did I mention funny???

The list could go on but we just wanted to share a few with you. Feel free to add to our list in the comment section!

Tuesday, August 8, 2006

It's only 9:30 and Ella is back in her crib and I have cleaned up tinkles on the floor twice, poop once, a pile of tissue pieces in the quantity of close to a million, taken away the resolve floor cleaner out of a one year old's hands, and threw away a toothbrush that was thrown into the toilet. The other child is was watching a video and then running laps around the house. I hope this isn't a portion of how the whole day will be but if so I think I will give myself a timeout and lock myself in the closet.

Yesterday was pretty good. We went to the Children's Museum where we ran into a couple of our friends and had a fun time. From there we went and had lunch with Mike at his office. Then on to get the babysitter, I was thinking I would have her over everyday (ha ha), I actually had a follow-up visit with my surgeon just to make sure the scar was doing well. Then back home for a quiet night at home. Mike had much more energy than I and was kind enough to do all the kitchen cleaning after dinner - sure do love you honey!

Mike is actually getting ready to celebrate his 37th birthday tomorrow. So hopefully a lot of you will give him a call, but surely not give him a hard time as I know he doesn't give anyone else one at all!

Sunday, August 6, 2006

Cookouts, family, friends, celebrations, and just plain fun is what summer weekends were made for. We made it through Arts camp week at church and then had a fun filled weekend. Pappy Lee and Mary visited Saturday afternoon along with Damion, Kara, and baby Aiden. It was great to get to hold my nephew and remember how little babies are when they are so young. Ella wasn't as fond of me holding a baby but there were enough people around to help with holding her. It didn't stop her crying but I am sure it probably was a little easier. Neither of my children showed a great interest in cousin Aiden but talked a lot about him before and after his visit. Later we headed out to our friend's 40th birthday celebration. The party was huge and the kids had a blast. Mike and I were just plain worn out afterwards. It was a full time job keeping up with both kids around a pool, outdoors with rocks and steps and patio torches lit. I believe I walked up and down steps more than when I lived on the 12th floor of my freshman dorm and I believe Ella weighs more than my backpack ever did. There was a Jimmy Buffet theme to the party and we were asked to wear tropical gear so as you can see in the picture we definitely fit the description. Thanks to Chuck and Caroline for letting us borrow their purchases from Hawaii and also for the outfits that they bought for the kids last year on their visit. Everyone thought we were a hit and even suggested it for our Christmas picture. I would do that except I am sure the kids will change a lot before then so I am going on and posting it here.

Tonight Landon and Ella had a babysitter - can you believe it - yes a babysitter. This is only the 3rd time we have left them with anyone other than family (yes, I am counting) and it went amazingly well. Landon was quite the showoff and didn't even want to eat dinner just so he could play some more. There wasn't the first bit of crying when we left and she even put Ella to bed without a hard time. It was a great success and Landon is hoping she will come back soon and I am just relieved to find someone else that the kids both enjoy.

Mike is very happy to have the basement done and has enjoyed naps on the couch, racing on the big screen and falling asleep at night in the cool air. I have sent both kids down there on many occassions just to make sure Mike isn't bored in all the quietness or at least not lonely in a big room without little people running laps in it. Mike has also perfected his "talk to the van" voice and has successfully shared commands with the navigation and audio system. However, Landon has picked up on this and everytime he sees or rides in the van he says in his most robotic sounding voice "go home" and I think he may still be awaiting a reply.

Thursday, August 3, 2006

Heat, heat, go away, please don't come another day! I am running out of indoor activities to keep the kids sane. Ella decided today that she would beat the heat by climbing in our fireplace and throwing about 1,000 little tiny rocks out into the den floor. Landon said "Ella, baby, no no you are making such a mess". I put them straight to nap after that just for damage control. Luckily they both napped well and so did I!

Tonight we had swimming lessons again. Landon loved it and kicked more than I could in a couple days. He told me on the way that he was going to swim and listen to his teacher. Sure enough he did everything she asked. Ella clung to me like I was a life vest. She particularly didn't like when we dunked her underwater. By the end of the lesson she was shaking and had purple lips even though the water was 84 degrees. Straight from lessons we headed to have dinner with Nannie and Pops. They are spending the night before a long weekend of travel to see Nathan off to Kosovo, visiting baby Aiden and picking up Molly the cat to take her to Rocky Mount. We appreciate everyone's thoughts and prayers as Nathan heads overseas for 10 - 12 months.

Pictures today are from 1 year ago, looks like we were trying to beat the heat then too!

Tuesday, August 1, 2006

Is anyone else hot out there? I tell you what, it is hotter than I have ever known hot. I don't remember it ever being so hot as a kid but maybe back then I didn't care. We have managed to stay indoors all day except for the walk between our house and car or out destination and car. No playing outside for us and probably not tomorrow either. Last night we decided to go out for some ice cream to cool off and boy did Landon and Ella enjoy it. We tried to eat it outside in the shade but the mosquitos were biting and the heat was melting the ice cream so fast (even though both children didn't take but a second between bites).

Today ended up being a better day at Arts Camp as I had someone who is going to school now for teaching and needed some class time so she volunteered to do music with our class all week. It was great and the kids loved it. Tonight we started swimming lessons with the kids and Landon was very excited about the event. The pool was indoors and there were 4 other children in the class, all boys might I add. Ella was enjoying the attention but she wasn't enjoying the water being on the cool side and certainly wasn't enjoying the teacher dipping her under the water. After the 30 minutes was over she was ready to retreat to the showers and loved the oh so warm shower and soapy bubbles. Landon was thrilled with the idea of jumping to Mike 400 times in a row and was in his element.

Pictures today are from the last couple of days. The favorite is Ella holding the purple ball. Landon gave her a really large yellow ball for her birthday but somehow she never got to play with it as Landon always wanted it. I bought her the purple ball in hopes that it would even things out and she was so excited and picked it out herself. She held it the whole time in the store and even on the way home. She dropped it once and let us know but then once Kelli got it for her she didn't let go. I am sure you aren't surprised that now Landon hogs both of them and doesn't want Ella playing with either.