The Cutest Boys

2010-03-15T15:02:00.002-05:00

To my Blogging friends...I no longer operate on this blog. Surprised?? If you want to follow our life and adoption, the new address is
http://www.my3boysandlittlelady.blogspot.com

2009-06-18T23:43:00.002-05:00

Florida Baby!!

Beaches, sunshine, the best Seafood ever, the pool....we couldn't ask for a better vacation, well, unless I left my kids at home....Just kidding all. I love my kids, really! And they loved the trip!

We all dressed in white and khaki and took some pics on the beach. We HAD to do it, everyone does it, right?

Brenden can NOT take a normal picture!

Check out the man in the corner!!

At night, we would go crab hunting. Austin LOVED this! Those little critters were so fast, and so white, and I was the only one without a flashlight!
Can you see the crab??

Jeff and I had fun too! We rode this rip cord thing and loved it!

2009-05-26T16:43:00.003-05:00

Austin's Surgery

This is a little late...but I wanted to put up some pics of Austin on his big surgery day! Thanks to all who prayed for him last month!

We had to be at the hospital at 5:30 am!

Before the surgery, Austin past the time by playing on Jeff's iphone. This was before the loopy medicine. After he got that, I wish I would have taken video, except I was too worried. He was pretty funny!

AFTER....

He woke up immediately, but didn't feel very good. His throat hurt from the tube and he was nauseous.

Popsicles made him feel way better!

We brought him home that day. He didn't like the fact that he couldn't do anything all day but play his DS and watch movies...that sounds like a perfect day for me, but to Austin it was torture! The first day was hard, but after that his recovery went well!

2009-05-15T11:30:00.004-05:00

Have I been kicked out of the blog club yet??? My excuses haven't changed so I will spare you. But I do have a new respect for a mother of 4 because 3 kids are about to do me in :) That being said...here are some pictures of that 3rd child, taken by the amazing photographer Katie!

2009-02-16T22:35:00.002-06:00

Austin's 6th Birthday!!
I cannot believe it he is getting soo big!! Although, he still asks me on a regular basis to "cuddle" with him, so luckily he is still my baby! Here is one his first birthday.....

And now...

Austin and Jacob! I love watching these two together!!

We went bowling with just the family (& Jacob) afterwards!

Brenden was so funny! He would celebrate everytime, he hit just even one pin!

Austin did some celebrating himself...

A 103 baby! What's up now??? (that's what Austin is thinking..)

Brenden was so funny watching him carry this big ball down the lane and roll it! He ONLY fell twice :)

2009-02-15T17:01:00.002-06:00

Casen's Photoshoot with Mandi
Mandi always does such an amazing job of capturing those sweet moments in life that I don't want to forget. These are from his 3 month session and boy is he cute, if i do say so myself!

2009-01-23T11:38:00.002-06:00

Yes, I am still alive..

Casen is now 3 months. I cannot believe it. He is so much fun! Here are some random pictures of his favorite activities...

Smiling at his mommy!

Being tortured by his brother. Brenden is constantly wanting to hold and kiss him!

Watching TV

Playing in his Jumper!

Sucking his thumb...it's the cutest!

2008-12-18T09:36:00.002-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRENDEN!!!

I can't believe my baby is 3!! Brenden is such an amazingly good child!! I thank God for him everyday!

Brenden at 4 months

My little man today!

Sidenote....I forgot today was his birthday until Austin said it. Poor middle child!

2008-12-10T13:57:00.002-06:00

Okay, I know I have been missing for quite awhile. Between diapers and feeding, and crying (me, not Casen) I haven't found the time to blog. BUT, Mandi took some pictures of Casen when he was 2 weeks old, and they are soooooo amazing that I had to find the time to share them with with world! They are so stinkin' cute, it almost makes me want to have another baby :) I had to post all of them because I couldn't choose any to leave out. They are that good!

2008-11-04T16:25:00.002-06:00

THIS IS THE BLOG THAT NEVER ENDS.....

Well I have some catching up to do. So here comes the longest post ever!!!

CASEN

His serious face. He makes these alot!

First Bath....

HALLOWEEN

Austin played soccer for the fourth season this year. And I know I may be bias, but he was soooo good!! He is such a quick and smart player, and I love to be his soccer momma!!

Of course, he did ALOT of celebrating, these are just a few pics of the many :)

Brenden on a grocery run with his daddy....

2008-10-12T20:24:00.003-05:00

Welcome Casen Blake!!

Casen made his appearance October 10 at 1:46 am. He weighed 7 lbs 2 oz, and was 20 1/4" long. That's the short version, for the long version read on (if you haven't already heard it).
Beware, it's long!
Thursday night Jeff, Kylie and I were upstairs just talking for a couple of hours. We kept telling Kylie she needed to get home before she got in trouble (but I am glad she didn't listen to us.) At 11:30, I felt this pop in my stomach, a really weird feeling, and my pants started filling up, Jeff was very happy that I was sitting on a leather chair. We got in labor mode. Told Jeff to pack the car, get Austin's stuff ready for school tomorrow, and I jumped in the shower. At 12:15, I started timing my contractions because they were pretty painful and they were coming 2 minutes apart!! Jeff jumped in the shower, ironed only one side of his shorts, because I told him we HAD to go!! We get to the hospital a little before one. Iwas taken to the exam room to be asked a million questions. I was 4 cm. 15 minutes later, they took me to my room for more paperwork, which I couldn't finish, and I asked them to check me again. I was in ALOT of pain and the contractions were coming really fast. She checked me and I was an 8!!! IN 15 MINUTES!! So, they called my doctor, and got me ready to deliver. If things weren't crazy enough, Casen's heartrate took a large descent to the 60's and the room filled up with nurses. I put on an oxygen mask and had to keep changing positions, and was praying in my head really hard that he would be okay!! I kept looking to Jeff, who was the absolute best coach, and kept telling me it was all okay! My doctor came, I had to push! As she was putting on her gown and gloves, I pushed once, out came his head, and twice, here came his body!! It happened soooo fast, and it was so wonderful!! (so fast, we have no video and hardly any pictures). The reason for his heartrate decrease was 3 fold, the cord was wrapped around his neck, he went so fast down the birth canal, and he had a "true knot" in his cord. This is the reason that some babies are stillborn, so we are thanking God for our little miracle!! Casen is absolutely amazing. I am so glad we are now home, and we have our 3 boys!! Life is great!

Here is the knot in his cord....

Some people look really beautiful when they give birth! That would not be me, but I am not ashamed to show you what I look like in labor! It's hard work....I am ALMOST proud :)

Austin and Brenden LOVE him!! They both love to touch him and hold him, and Brenden hasn't shown any signs of jealousy!

2008-10-03T21:59:00.002-05:00

I Am Still Here....

...and still pregnant! Here are some pictures that my amazing photographer friend, Mandi, took. I am so blessed to have such talented friends. She somehow made my fat stomach look good :) Thank you, Mandi, for capturing this very special moment in my life!

2008-08-13T13:24:00.002-05:00

The Day Has Come

The supplies were bought; clothes were bought; lunches all planned out, but I wasn't ready....Austin's first day of Kindergarten! He was ready, though!! He had a hard time going to sleep last night (who doesn't the night before the first day of school). He was excited to wake up with his daddy's I-phone as his alarm (his alarm has been ordered), got dressed all on his own, then came to the breakfast table. When asked what he wanted for breakfast, he ordered bacon, eggs, and toast. Then we were off...

I walked Austin into his school so he wouldn't get lost, but the funny story is as we were walking down the hall, I started to go into the class, and Austin wasn't with me anymore. I looked in front of me, to the side, behind me, and all I saw was lots of students and parents but no Austin. I thought, Oh poor thing, he went into the wrong classroom. So I went back, and found him, but it wasn't the wrong classroom. Austin knew right where he was going, I was the one getting lost. I guess he is all grown-up! He went right in, put his backpack in his locker, and went to a table to color. Jeff had lunch with him today, and said he is doing great. He was excited about his "napkin note" because there were several kids who had them!

Here is his teacher, Mrs. Baker. Annie-you might know her?? She is from the Owasso 4 year old program. I was excited to see that she is a Christian and vocal about it. She had her information up for Student of the Week, and included in that was that she was a child of God, and her favorite book was the Bible. She also sent home a paper about herself, and included in that was that she has been a member of First Baptist Church for 6 years and is very involved. I was so relieved and happy, since I was nervous for Austin to go to a public school! God is good!

2008-08-08T22:16:00.003-05:00

It's All About Casen!

In case you didn't know, that is the name of our 3rd son. The one I feel every now and then moving inside of me, but I have yet to believe that I am actually having a baby. I think when my labor starts, that's when it's all going to hit that I am having a third child. Until then.....here are some pictures of his home now (me) and his home to be (his room).

Here is my 6 month belly. I know it is crooked, but my 5 year old son took it, and I was pretty proud of him.

This is what it looks like underneath the shirt. Those of you who haven't had kids thought pregnant bellies were all cute, until this.... (ps, I would like to think that the flash from the camera is what gave my stomach such a glare, but well, that would be wishful thinking :)

Here is a video of Casen's room.... (and for those who don't like videos, there are pictures underneath)

After all the opinions, I bet bedding that wasn't on my blog, imagine that.

I painted these letters, and I love them!! Jeff kept telling me they wouldn't work out, (he really knows how artistic ability wasn't given to me!), but I tried anyway, and yes there are alot of crooked lines, and I would be totally embarrassed to say how long they took me, I will say I stayed up until 4 in the morning, but it is my own special thing since I am not allowed to paint the room (again, Jeff knows that painting is not my talent)

These are the pictures my kids made for Casen's room. Austin tends to be more like me, he can't draw very well, and really doesn't care. I love that they have a part of his room, though!

It's been a looooong week, but it is done. Jeff did most of the work, and I think he did a great job!

2008-08-08T14:36:00.002-05:00

I WANT TO PLAY....
Okay I wanted to ask Austin those questions, it seems like such a fun game. Here is what I got!

What does Mommy always say to you? No
What makes Mommy happy? for me to be nice
What makes Mommy sad? when I aggravate Brenden
How does Mommy make you laugh? when you say funny things like....shakey bootie (which I never say, and then he precedes to laugh and couldn't stop for the next question :)
How old is mommy? 30
How tall is Mommy? 40...?
What doesn't Mommy like to do? go to McDonalds
What is Mommy's job? to clean the whole house (then I should be fired)
How do you know Mommy loves you? cause you kiss me

I just realized that I don't have any recent photos of me and Austin (I guess I am always the one behind the camera, that's sad)

2008-07-23T14:40:00.002-05:00

Long Overdue!!

Here are pictures that my good friend, Katie, took for me. She is an amazing photographer, and of course, I think my kids are gorgeous.

ATTENTION FAMILY:
I will be ordering these pics soon, so.....tell me what pictures you want and what sizes. Any picture that you want, I can change to black & white, vintage, or just leave in color. You tell me! :) You can either email me or leave a comment....

vintage example

Katie put these in "real" vintage, aren't they so cool?? I don't have that capability. So don't ask me to do that in any of the other pictures, but you can order these :)

And if I recall correctly, Katie, wasn't it a cloudy day??? I love the bright blue sky in all the pictures. You are the best!

2008-07-22T21:31:00.002-05:00

FOR ASHLEE AND PAM!!

When I posted some pictures of the girls, you asked for some of the boys. Ask and you shall receive!! :D I am going to miss the boys, I always tell them they are my favorites! I am very proud of Tyler, and I have always loved having him in the youth group because he is just so much fun, without being disrespectful! Even once, he thought I was upset with him, so he wrote a poem for me during church (he said it was a joke, but I still thought it was really nice) I was going to post it....I thought I still had it in my Bible, but it disappeared. :( So anyways, here is Tyler......

2008-07-19T19:49:00.003-05:00

BIG SPLASH!!

Buying passes for $20 was the best thing we could do! We go at least once a week and the kids love it. The first 3 times, was a little frustrating because Austin wanted to only hang out in the toddler area, and Brenden wouldn't go down any of the kiddie slides, unless me and my fat pregnant self went with him, and that was no easy task. Well, the fourth time is a charm. (and Jeff went with us, and he has a way of persuading the kids to do things.) Austin finally went down the slides, rock climbing wall, diving platform, and master blaster. Not without, earning a toy and a snowcone in the process. We had to resort to bribery. BUT here are some pictures of his success!

I love that he really didn't climb, and he is already holding his nose.

A little better the second time around.

I am happy to report Brenden now does all the slides, and I don't even have to stand at the bottom!! I can now sit and be lazy! :)

All of my favorite boys!!

Introducing my cute little niece who joined us at Big Splash, Callie. (not to be confused with my other niece, also, Kallie, but who is 5 years old :)

Also, in case you are wondering about my whole bedding fun. I went to buy the blue star one. When I saw it in person, though, it just looked really cheap for some reason. Wrinkled, thin, strings already coming out of the quilt on display. So I spent the next 2 hours, trying to decide what to do. I finally came home with a bedding set that wasn't on my blog, and I ordered the Jungle one with circles (#2, and Jeff's favorite), so they are both now in the room and I am trying to decide which one I like better. Thanks for all the help!!!!! In case you were wondering, my favorite was #3.

2008-07-09T17:17:00.002-05:00

ONE MORE LAST HELP....

Are you tired of me asking for opinions??? Next I will post pictures of my cutie pies (and my belly for some of those asking :D ) But you guys have all helped me so much make decisions. Can you tell that I am a very indecisive person and have a hard time deciding things for myself??? Thank you for all your responses on my frames, we will be doing black and white or sepia, I will try them both (not together). AND the pressure of trying to figure out a "pattern" to put up there has relieved me. NOW, you helped me before on bedding, but we are now actually ordering it. I seriously want opinions though. I love hearing from people. AND please be honest, I know it is my house and ultimately I will decide but I love to hear what people think. My feelings do not get hurt!!!!!!!! That being said, here are my choices. I have two favorites and Jeff has two favorites (which are of course, completely different than mine), but he really doesn't care. So.......

Tell me your favorite, and if there is one or more you looked at and said, EW! You can tell me that too. I really do want to know!

2008-07-08T14:24:00.002-05:00

CALLING ALL INTERIOR DECORTATORS....

and anyone else with an opinion :) Jeff and I just redid our living room, and I must say we LOVE it!! I posted a picture of our sofa table. Hanging above it, is a group of 9 frames, and now I have to put pictures in it. Here comes my dilemna....do the pictures need to have any rhyme or reason. Like the kids at a certain age, should it be uniform. If so, three rows of 3 makes it hard. So what should it be? Or just random pictures of my kids at whatever age, would that look good?? Then Jeff, thinks they should all be in black and white, so it still looks uniform. I prefer color pictures, but I see his point. What do you think!! I need help!!!!

2008-06-25T17:57:00.003-05:00

I AM STILL HERE!!

Please don't forget about me!! Where have I been since the last post, you ask??? Well, I had to finish Brenden's first year scrapbook before this baby was born (that took up all my computer time), and I will soon begin our Family Album 2007, but I will really try not to go MIA. THEN, we went on our missions trip, THEN I spent all my spare computer time researching the million different adoption agencies and countries (please pray for Jeff and I and God's direction in our life!!) AND I am pregnant (that's an excuse, right?) So, then today for the first time in a month, I looked at everyone else's blog and noticed on Mandi's that I am at the bottom with 5 weeks since my last update. That just cannot do! So please buy all my excuses, and here are just a few random pictures of our life lately!

My girls have graduated (sniff, sniff). This year was really special for us because it is our first graduating class that have been with us since they were freshmen. These girls have meant so much to me, and I have enjoyed being so close with them!!! I am going to miss them!!!!!!!

Austin played t-ball for the second season.

These two have been with each other for every season and every sport (except for Upwards, that was a hard season) And I can see them playing together in High School (so Sandy, you better NEVER move)

The last day of school! He had such a great year, and once again Jacob and him were together. I love the way they can fight like brothers, and yet, they are inseparable. Austin has never done anything without Jacob, so next year, when they aren't at school together, I don't know what Austin will do. Maybe will start looking to move, NOW :)

Kylie took this picture of Brenden. I think it is the cutest!

2008-05-19T20:55:00.003-05:00

IT'S A.....

Oh yes, it is true! We are having our 3rd boy!! My house will be a total zoo, but we couldn't be more excited. I know some of you are wondering if we are disappointed. Well, maybe for a split second, but then we were too happy to see our sweet little boy to be sad!! According to the tech, he looks all nice and healthy, and the more I say, "he" the more excited I am getting even now as I am typing it!! So there it is, we are boy makers!!

Austin wanted to get in on the writing on the belly with marker. It was finally "Okay" to write on himself, he had to take advantage of that. He wrote boy all by himself!

2008-04-09T16:29:00.002-05:00

Sunny days, Sweeping the Clouds Away......

Oh yes, we went to Sesame Street. The day we got back from South Africa, we had tickets to take Brenden to see Sesame Street Live and I did not want to miss it! (it was now 2 in the morning our bodies' time and add to the fact that we really didn't sleep much on the plane, we were a little tired, but I had been looking forward to this for 2 months!) It was well worth it! The first 10 minutes, he just stared with no expression, which is exactly what Austin did when we took him at 2 the entire show, not much fun. After that, though, he was the cutest thing. If Elmo, Ernie, Big Bird, or Cookie Monster left the stage, he would ask where they went, non stop, until he saw them again, and then he would yell really loud there is Elmo, or whoever. He danced and laughed. He was really so much fun, and I am so glad we got to see his enjoyment!

And when it was over...

Now you can see Austin is all concerned, trying to comfort him, offering him Ernie, while Jeff and I are laughing and making sure we have plenty of photos. (Some kids I may think this is bratty, but for some reason, I think it is so cute when Brenden does it!)
**sidenote- Shannon notice the double chin...I told you my face was already swollen!!

He got over it (after we turned off the camera and loved on him) and took some more pictures for me.

Austin is booing because he is too "cool" to like Elmo, but he watched the entire show no complaints!

The first video he is dancing....

This second video is his little fit....Excuse the bad video taping!

And lastly, just him talking, not much interest, but I thought my family (the lurkers, as I call them) would like to hear his voice :)

2008-04-01T16:13:00.003-05:00

I'M PREGNANT!!!

Okay, so you already knew that....but I am finally posting pics of my cutie and how it all went down (telling Jeff, that is, you probably don't want to know anything before that :)

I first found out February 1st, and yes, we were trying. That seems to be a popular question when you are pregnant with #3. In other words, people are saying, what were you thinking? I was absolutely ecstatic! I took a digital test, which is absolutely the coolest. Gone are the days of searching for the little blue line!

I called my sister right away because I had to tell someone! But then I kept the news from my hubby until the next night. So this is now my fifth pregnancy, and with everyone (except the first) I told him in some creative way. I was running out of ideas here, and in case you didn't know, we aren't really super sappy people. So that's my disclaimer. Anyways, I put a hamburger bun in the oven, and when the timer went off, I asked him to take it out. He said, what is this? I said, "It's a bun...in the oven." He told me I was weird, then I said, "you know like a bun in our oven." Then he was pretty excited, and said the funniest thing to me, "I can't believe it worked." We then told the boys, and Austin was super happy! He has been wanting me to have another baby for forever. Of course, the first thing he said was, I hope it's a girl! He kept it a secret for a whole month! He is so sweet with this pregnancy. He is constantly kissing my belly and telling me how much he loves the baby. He told me one day when I was dancing pretty crazy to Guitar Hero, that he didn't think that was good for the baby :)

Here is our cutie pie at 8 weeks!

Then at 9 weeks!

S(he) grew legs in one week! Isn't that crazy! Let me tell you when I saw that heartbeat, I was the happiest woman alive. I had a good feeling about this pregnancy from the get go (unlike the ones I miscarried), but still I have never had a successful pregnancy from the beginning. I miscarry, then everything goes well. I just couldn't believe I could have this miracle without experiencing my heartache first. God is so good!

And here is me at almost 3 months.

My waist has already grown 3 inches (the same as when I was FIVE months preggo with Brenden!) and I have gained 10 lbs!

So there goes the whole story! Whew, that was long! But I feel better now! :)

2008-03-29T13:28:00.003-05:00

We ARE BAAAACK!!

From South Africa!!! We had such a great time, and I always love seeing different cultures. Being spoiled here in America, sometimes I forget there are other people and cultures different than us out there. So here is a little about our trip!

In the beginning....there is Jeff and I.

Our trip has just begun, but it did begin a little rough. At the Tulsa airport, an hour before we were to leave, I went to the restroom and noticed I was "spotting." A pregnant woman never wants to see that! I was pretty emotional; I called my dr who advised me to come in now and fly out the next day, Jeff and I prayerfully considered, but decided to go ahead on the trip. (Luckily when we got there, I heard the heartbeat on my doppler that I rented, Praise God!!)

And here we are 26 hours later!!

Oh yes! We traveled that long, 30 hours on the way back. One flight alone was 20 hours!! It was a long plane ride, but we had our own personal tv's with movies and tv shows and games, all for free. So that was fun, but for 20 hours!! Yeah, we were ready to be there!

We spent Thursday night, Friday morning and night, Saturday morning and night, and Sunday at the church. They celebrate Easter all weekend long. And it was absolutely amazing. The church is located in a township, government housing made of cement block, usually just one room.

The people all walk to church, but let me tell you, they all seemed to have the best attitude and the most compassionate hearts. So much different than us Americans!! The singing would go on for hours, but it didn't get old at all. People didn't wander whether or not it was okay to raise their hands, or sway to the beat, or clap, they just worshiped God! It was awesome.

The Hope Center that Mark and Sue built (with the financial help from our church) was amazing, and I know that God is really going to bless it. The kids had a place to play.

Behind these girls playing, was just a small portion of the township, these houses stretched for as far as you can see both ways. It really is a beautiful country!

Then for 2 days, Mark and Sue took Jeff and I to an animal reserve. (Like a safari) We just drove around hoping to see animals. Now, I know we could just hop in our car in Tulsa, and go to the zoo, but there was just something about seeing them all out in the wild. It was soooo cool!!

Wildebeasts...we saw these quite often!

The warthogs and monkeys just hung out with the people, we were just sitting at our picnic table eating lunch, and they just roamed everywhere.

The zebra were everywhere!! We probably saw 50 of them!

As you can tell, these hyenas were right by the road, as well as an elephant and LIONNESS!! The lionness was actually just down the road from one of the camps! Crazy. It wasn't very often that people would see a lion, they usually keep themselves hidden. We were so fortunate.

Thank you all who prayed for us!! It surely worked!! I had been pretty nauseous and extremely tired before we left, but I felt pretty good on the trip. I feel so blessed that we were able to go!

2008-03-18T10:12:00.002-05:00

SOUTH AFRICA OR BUST!!!

I was hoping to post some cute ultrasound pictures or fat belly pics or how I told Jeff, but I just never had time :( Packing for a trip like this takes work. We are leaving in 5 minutes for South Africa, please pray for us on our long 25 hour trip, Jeff and I both speak, and please pray for our kids. I will miss them. I actually cried when I said Goodbye, and I haven't done that in a looong time, and I leave them alot! I will have lots of pictures to post when we get back next week!!!

2008-03-12T13:16:00.002-05:00

Survey Time!!

What time did you get up this morning? 6:00 am, only because the boys were in our bed, and Brenden took up the whole KING size bed and Austin I shared HALF a pillow!! Why were they in bed with me?? Because I killed 36 spiders in their room. YUCk!! I think there was a mommy spider that had babies!

Diamonds or pearls? I am really not a jewelry person, lucky Jeff. But I would have to say diamonds

What is your favorite TV show? Hmm....Right now it's a Baby Story

What is your middle name? SueAnne, after my mom's best friend. My dad didn't like the name, but he wasn't with my mom when she did the birth certificate, so that's what I got :)

What food do you dislike? Mexican

What is your favorite song or artist at the moment? I like Superchic and BarlowGirl, but it seems that High School Musical 2 and Veggietales are the only thing I ever get to listen to.

What characteristics do you despise? I am with Ashlee, selfishness, and people who don't follow the rules.

Favorite item of clothing? the only pair of jeans I have left that will button

If you could go anywhere in the world for a vacation, where would you go? scuba diving in Australia!

What color is your bathroom? red and black

Favorite brand of clothing? anything on sale

Where would you like to retire? wherever my kids are

Most memorable birthday? last year when I turned 30 when I was kidnapped, my car was decorated, and my sister sent me flowers. That was a fun day!

Favorite sport to watch? College football, or just anytime Austin plays, even though I am already becoming that psycho mom, I need to chill out :)

Favorite quote? "If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up." --Shadrach, Meshach, anad Abednego. I always want to give them a standing ovation after that speech, and I think I will when I get to Heaven.

Are you a morning or a night person? Night person

What did you want to be when you were little? a teacher

What are you today? a teacher, but for now a mom :)

Your favorite flower? daisy

What is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to? October 13, my due date!

If you were a crayon, what color would you be? um...blue, but not because I am sad, I just like that color

What is your pet peeve? People who can't do anything for themselves

Favorite soft drink? Cream soda

Favorite restaurant? Cheddars

Favorite day of the year? Christmas

What was your favorite toy as a child? a My Child doll

Summer or winter? Summer

What is under your bed? an old crib and a dresser brand new in box, that's a long story

What did you do last night? Ooo... I can't tell you that ;)

Favorite smell? a clean house, I haven't smelled that in awhile

What are you afraid of? raising kids that don't love Jesus

How many states have you lived in? 4

How many words did spell check have to correct? I don't do spellcheck

What/Who inspires you? God (I know real deep) But everytime I do my Bible study, I feel inspired!

Tag at least two people to fill this in with their own answers. I tag Annie and Christi (sorry you guys are just the next two on my list if I am remembering correctly :)

2008-03-11T17:33:00.005-05:00

YES IT'S TRUE!

Well if it wasn't obvious from the picture of our feet or that little thing floating in a bubble, We are expecting our third child! We could not be more excited!! I am 9 weeks right now, and due October 13. I will have ultrasound pictures to post soon and some of my fat belly pictures. Oh and Jessica-the day you asked me if I was pregnantand I said No. I really was, sorry for lying. But when Jeff said that it would be news to him, he was telling the truth, I hadn't told him yet :)

This explains while I have been MIA on the blogs lately. If I am feeling good, not nauseous or exhausted (which isn't too often) then I HAVE alot of housework to do! More pictures to come soon!

2008-02-20T23:06:00.004-06:00

BIRTHDAY BOWLING BONANZA
Okay I know no one under 50 uses the word Bonanza, but that was all I could think of....SO Austin's 5th birthday was at the bowling alley (therefore his guest list was very limited and all his choosing). There were 7 boys and 2 girls. It was so funny to see the difference. The boys would bowl and then all stand there being silly. The girls would bowl and then go sit down. Oh, I need a girl! :) Austin had alot of fun, and I was just glad I didn't have to clean my house!

\

I had to post Austin's bowling score. 103!!! Okay, yes there were bumpers, but still....he definitely did not get his abilities from me. I rarely ever break 100!

AND Thank you Katie for the header and telling me how to make big pictures!! You are the best! I figured out how to lose the maroon underneath my header, pictures, and sidebar. I was so proud of myself :)

2008-02-13T11:23:00.003-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUSTIN!!

My baby.......

....just turned 5!

Austin was a great baby, a pretty good toddler, I'm suprised he survived 3, but he is now an awesome 5 year old! He is my cuddler and he is always trying to protect me. I love him so much, and now I am crying! Happy Birthday Austin!

2008-02-03T15:45:00.000-06:00

BRENDEN
These three pictures are from the great, upcoming photographer, Kylie :) She took these in nursery (in case you don't recognize) and I thought they were so cute!

Then I have to post a picture of my lil' piggy. He likes to pull up his chair into the pantry and pick out his snack. I just think it is so funny. I find him in there quite often. Now, I know you are looking at the disarray inside the pantry....I blame Brenden!!!

2008-02-03T15:40:00.000-06:00

THESE ARE THE MOMENTS....

I love being a mom. Unfortunately, no picture to post because my camera was in the van and Jeff had the van...but I still thought the story was so sweet. I put the boys to bed and Brenden kept getting up, which he does every night. So the last time, I spanked him (and he is definitely my sensitive child, so this is all it takes). Well, about 30 minutes later, I went to turn off their music and make sure they werecovered up, and Brenden had crawled in bed with Austin and they were all snuggled together. I asked Austin about it the next morning, and he said that Brenden got in bed with him and he (Austin) rubbed his back. How sweet are they! I have to remember these moments because during the day when they are screaming at each other, I can know that they DO love one another!

2008-01-30T22:46:00.000-06:00

FUN ON THE RUN!!!
This is our all-nighter on steriods! Gone are the days where we are locked in the gym and eventually fall asleep watching a movie...We invite churches all over the area, have a BIG service. Jared Hall, the illusionist, and Scott Anderson entertained the teens and gave them the word of God. Our very own teenagers, along with Mike, Mischelle, and Dannielle, did the music, and let me tell you, it was awesome. I even got teary-eyed because I was just so proud of them! And realizing that this is our last event with our seniors, and they are pretty special because they have been with us since they were freshmen. I just love them...okay I am done with my moment. We then went bowling, Incredible Pizza, and Ice skating. Got back to the church at 6:30. I crawled into bed around 9:30. I know you are asking, where were my kids. I heard them every now and then in my dreams, I guess they fended for themselves, even Brenden. I did wake up and find crackers all over the living room, and to Austin making his own lunch... :) I am such a good mom ;)

Ashlee painted this during the song, Jesus Paid it All! It was amazing. and kudos to her because she tried to pencil in the picture to make sure it turned out right, and the board was turned sideways....She is soooo good!

2008-01-16T12:36:00.000-06:00

THESE ARE FOR YOU, SIS!
My sister requested the pictures that I took while I was in Corpus(she is still ordering me around ;) And putting them on my blog is so much easier than emailing....So here you go Shannon, I love you!

2008-01-08T15:15:00.000-06:00

Better Late Than Never, Right?
Merry Christmas! This Christmas was so much fun with the two boys! First I have to say, I have never claimed to be a big Santa person, and didn't really want to do it with my kids, but their dad did, so okay. Well, this year Austin knew he was getting a transformer for Christmas, why? because he asked Santa for it. So wouldn't you know that all the stores were sold out, and I had to get on ebay and pay twice as much so he wouldn't be disappointed in Santa. So I guess I am now a Santa person after all :) Austin also got a hamster, "George" which is so cute, and both the boys got a trampoline. I love it when they are old enough, that I can enjoy their presents. Of course, me and trampolines don't do well together, some of you know why :) We also drove to Texas to see my family! I miss them sooooo much! We were very sad to leave!

Brenden wanting me to take his picture. Where was this when I tried 3 different times to get a good picture for the Christmas card???
Me and my oldest nephew, Brandon. He loves me :)
Shannon, my older, and much wiser sister (you and your B :)
Austin and Kailynn are only one month apart, and they are pretty much inseparable when we visit, and I don't think they ever fought!!
Matt (my 9 year old nephew, he also loves me :) and Jeff running football plays.

2007-12-18T23:10:00.000-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRENDEN!!!

This was us two years ago. Isn't he beautiful??

This is him now. It's not dirt, it's makeup. Where was i you ask? sitting on the couch next to him. I don't know how I didn't notice.
Kylie came by the house and brought Brenden a present. A basketball hoop. She knows the way to his heart, he was very excited about this.

Thank you Kylie!

She also bought him some converse shoes, which I was VERY excited about, but not so much Brenden. He threw about a 10 minute fit when we put them on. (he does this with his brown shoes too, weird) but he got over it. We then headed to Fuddruckers for dinner. Jeff had a meeting so Kylie was my fill-in husband :)

My parents sent Brenden the coolest present. It was a blow-up castle. I could not wait for Brenden to see it, but I forget about his strange phobia with inflatables, and it was 9:30 at night (and he only had a 30 minute nap that day). So this is what we got. (sorry mom and dad, Austin loved it though, and I know it will grow on Brenden)

2007-12-10T21:39:00.000-06:00

O! The Weather Outside is Frightful...

We had our first ice for the season, and these pictures are for my parents, sister, and Kelley who cruelly said, "It is 80 degrees here" ;)

Our beautiful landscaping :)

Our poor tree couldn't handle it.
One of the many power lines that were down. Some poor people didn't have electricity for days, luckily we were only out for about 12 hours (and 8 of those we were sleeping)
This was a common scene throughout Owasso :(
Okay, I just had to post this because I think I am in love. I have always hated coffee, and wanted to like it because everyone looked so cool when they go to Starbucks. So I finally tried White Chocolate Mocha with Caramel and Hazelnut. It is sooo amazing. So this was one of our stops today.

Below are two videos of Austin. Nothing too exciting, just wanted to show the family what a normal winter is like :) (Remember to push the play button two times)

2007-12-01T15:37:00.001-06:00

KNOW YOUR FRIENDS CHRISTMAS STYLE....
1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? wrapping paper!

2. Real or artificial tree? artificial (I love the real ones, but I was tired of bleeding by Christmas Day

3. When do you put up the tree? Right after Thanksgiving

4. When do you take the tree down? usually on Christmas Day because we go out of town the next day, and we are now tired of the tree :)

5. Do you like eggnog?um..never tried it, and don't plan to, an egg drink?? gross

6. Favorite gift received as a child? a My Child doll

7. Do you have a nativity scene? yes, with no wise men (they weren't really there for his birth anyway, right?)

8. Hardest person to buy for? my grandad!

9. Easiest person to buy for? my kids of course

10. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? ??? I am thankful for everything I get ;)

11. Mail or email Christmas cards? Mail

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? National Lampoons Christmas

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Black Friday, and I ususally finish that day too!

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Not that I recall

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? I just love having a big Christmas dinner!

16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? either

17. Favorite Christmas song?Mary Did You Know, and O Holy Night

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? home until the day after Christmas

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer? yep

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Angel

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or Christmas morning? one Christmas eve and all christmas morn

22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? hmm.....
23. Do you decorate your tree in any specific theme or color? yeah, we bought maroon and gold Jeff and I's first Christmas and we STILL use it 8 years later!

24. What do/did you leave for Santa? Cookies & Milk, but I am not really a big Santa fan :)

YOUR TURN!

2007-11-29T13:09:00.000-06:00

Best Week Ever...

...In November anyway! Jeff and I got the chance to get away for the week and go to a Youth Specialties Conference. We haven't done anything just the two of us in over 3 years, so just being at the airport with NO kids was a blast!!!! We spent Friday to Monday at the Conference in Atlanta. We would get there at 9 in the morning and not get back to our hotel until midnight, but it was so much fun! We got to hear great bands: Chris Tomlin, David Crowder, Desperation Band, Third Day, just to name a few. AND awesome speakers: Andy Stanley, Louie Giglio, and Doug Fields. It was so uplifting and encouraging to both us!! Then, we drove to see one of our teens from Florida who is now going to college in Georgia, so good to see her again! Then drove to SC to see our friends, Todd and Kelley. Oh my goodness, I miss them. We haven't laughed so much in a long time!! Then we flew back to Missouri on Wednesday, just in time to spend Thanksgiving with Jeff's family! So fun!

Chris Tomlin

David Crowder (my personal favorite)

At Vannessa's Beautiful College! I love you Vannessa!

Austin and Brenden's future wives (they don't have a choice) Haley and Taylor

We went to Silver Dollar City after Thanksgiving and it was sooooo cold! Brenden was perfectly happy bundled in his stroller and did not even want to get out to do rides (but he of course, had no problem when it was time to eat!) The kids had alot of fun and the lights were just beautiful!

Austin rode his first roller coaster, he is the second to last car

Austin, being silly...imagine that :)

2007-11-07T13:02:00.000-06:00

Thirty, Flirty, and Thriving

Well I have been dreading this birthday since, well, since I turned 29 :) I know I already have a minivan and two kids, but something about turning 30 was a little depressing, BUT I had the most fun birthday. I woke up and Jeff decorated the whole house, then I went to drive my car, and Catelyn (one of our teens) had decorated the outside of it, my sister (I love you Shannon) sent me my favorite flower, daisies (which luckily did not come in black), Kylie bought me a high school musical cd and texas fuzzy dice to keep me young, and then....I thought Jeff and I were to go on a date that night. I was sitting in our living room waiting for our babysitter when these masked people all dressed in black came and kidnapped me. They put an OU shirt on me and wrapped me in an OU blanket and threw me in a van. We started driving and no one would talk to me the entire way (it was about 20 minutes). We finally arrived and when I took off my blindfold, it was my all my friends taking me to my favorite restaurant, Olive Garden. You guys are the absolute best!!! (btw, friends and family if you want to see pictures of that, you will have to go to Mandi's blog on my sidebar and find Birthday Bandits) SOOOO.....thanks to everyone who made my 30th birthday so much fun and not at all depressing!!!

The front of the van said "Hot Mama" and pointed to the driver, and it was so great when Jeff had to drive it a few times!!!

2007-11-01T13:29:00.000-05:00

HALLOWEEN FUN!

We had a great Halloween. Jeff and I got to dress up to go to an 80's prom costume party, Austin was a member of the S.W.A.T. team and Brenden a boxer. We walked around the neighborhoods and then went to our church's Trunk or Treat. Both of my kids cried putting on their costume (yes, even Austin) but once the candy came rolling in, they were fine! It was a great night and we will be eating Halloween candy until this time next year!

Austin with his Ms. Batterton at his Halloween party!

Brenden and one of his many favorite teenagers!

2007-10-28T23:12:00.000-05:00

PUMPKIN PATCH

Jeff and I took the kids to the pumpkin patch to get some fall pictures. The kids were so cute and I just love watching them together. Austin is the perfect older brother, always concerned and trying to protect Brenden. And Brenden, well he was just a goofball! By the way, to get him to actually take pictures and wear his hat, we bribed him with mini m&m's. I have a few pictures (not posted) with his mouth open waiting for Jeff to put one in. Too funny!

My "cool" man!

I just love his chubby hands in this picture!

We were telling Austin to keep his eyes open and this is what Brenden would do!

2007-10-22T14:04:00.000-05:00

FALL BREAK TRIP

We took the teens camping during their fall break trip. Okay, it's not REAL camping, we stayed in nice cabins and we only ate at the campgrounds twice :) BUT, it is my kind of camping! We watched videos that encouraged the teens as well as myself to be better witnesses, and then we did some other fun things like, horseback riding (I am still so proud of you Myranda!!!), go-karts, putt-putt, shopping!!, Branson landing, etc...It was a fun trip, and I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE our teenagers!!!!

Everett and his gynormous lollipop! He skipped all over Branson Landing!

Jeff spent his 31st birthday camping, so we had to get him with silly string!

Each cabin carved pumpkins, and I would have to say this is my favorite! Just because Aimee and Myranda were in my cabin does not make me bias!

2007-10-15T21:07:00.001-05:00

This is Austin's third season to play soccer. I can't believe how much he has improved in a year. He went from being timid, going the wrong way, stealing it from his teammates, and peeing in his pants (okay that was only his first practice, but I thought it was worth mentioning :) to knowing how to pass it to his teammates and how to play smart, and he is very aggressive. I am proud to be his soccer mom! :)

Best buddies on and off the field. These two are fun to watch because they really work together! Last game a kid tripped Austin (on purpose) so Austin got a free kick, but afterwards Jacob came and patted him on the back, and then Austin returned the pat, I would love to know what they were saying to each other, but I am sure it was good job buddy! :)

Before the kick...

After the kick...he is so proud of himself!

This is what Brenden usually does during the game, eats (except when we forget to watch him and he wonders off, that's another story)...he's got his granola bar and capri sun, life is good!

2007-10-15T12:26:00.000-05:00

Katie-this picture is for you. I saw the cutest lil' sooner, now here is the cutest lil' longhorn :)

2007-10-10T15:54:00.001-05:00

AUSTIN'S FIRST FIELD TRIP

Austin went to the pumpkin patch for his first ever field trip. He talked about it for days, he was so excited to ride the big bus. He got to make a spider pumpkin and pick out his very own pumpkin. I had fun just watching him interact with his class. I'm glad to know that he was very social but still obeyed the teacher.

And to show that I am a good sport, and not a sore loser, I posted a picture of Austin and Jacob on gameday this year when OU won (BOOOO!) :)

2007-10-04T12:51:00.001-05:00

I had to post this picture in honor of the Red River Shootout this Saturday. (that's when Texas plays Oklahoma for those non-football fans) I took this last year on game day (when Texas won!) and I think it has to be the cutest thing ever! Gooooooo Texas! :)

2007-09-18T13:01:00.000-05:00

Here are some pics I took of my boys, and my attempt to edit them. (thanks to Mandi for spending hours showing me how and answering my million and one questions, and Katie for introducing me to noiseware, which I was able to download for free and salvage my two favorite pictures!) I have a new respect for those who can take good pictures. Brenden would not stay in one spot for anything, so I was always trying to follow him around and take what I could. Austin, well, he only knows how to give the "chandler" smile, and "girls have poopy pants" was only funny so many times. Then getting their picture together, well forget that! Mandi and Katie, I would love it if you commented or emailed me anything you would do differently, so the next time I take pictures (which will be a verrrry long time from now) will be better!

2007-08-24T15:06:00.000-05:00

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL!!!

This is the moment I have been excited for and dreading all at the same time, Austin's first day of school. He could not wait for it! We got to school, and he walked right in, no problem. When I picked him up, he said he loved it. I asked him if he missed me, and he said, "um.. Kind of. Well, nahh, not really."

Austin with his teacher Ms. Barr, that he called Ms. Bones for the first few days before he finally remembered her name.

Austin with the teacher's assistant, Ms. Batterton, which I called Ms. Barrington for a few days before I remembered it :)

"Mother, please stop taking pictures of me"

"Austin, if you smile, I promise you I will not take any more pictures.

Austin is enjoying his ice cream sundae, that was promised him after he was a big boy at school!

WARNING: The next two videos are pretty boring for the average viewer. No "Hot Baby" comments. Posted for family, you do have to endure it :)

2007-08-20T11:37:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I've been tagged. (thanks, mandi) I couldn't think of much because I feel like I talk about everything, and anything about pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and potty training is definitely out since that's all we talk about :) So here goes....
1. I, like Mandi, love country music and rap music too. I have even got Austin hooked on the rap (christian of course!)

2. My first job ever was at Sonic. I lasted a whole two weeks, then had my friend call and quit for me.

3. Our videographer was a man turned woman. A fact we didn't know until after shem was hired. Hey, shem was married. Her name was Rita, so she became Rita with no pita (can I say that on here :)

4. My sister and I are super close, we haven't had one fight in 14 years (since she moved out of the house and quit bossing me around and tricking me to do all her chores!). I love you Shannon!

5. I cry when I watch Price is Right. I am just so happy for all the winners!

6. I am a reality tv junkie. Okay so you already knew that. BUT if it wasn't for having to leave the kids, I would so apply to Amazing Race. Jeff and I would kick bootie!!

7. Okay, so here is an embarrassing one. On our honeymoon, Jeff and I went to Cancun. We both got diarrhea (sp?) EVERYBODY gets it okay! So anyway, I knew I had an explosion coming and I am not comfortable pooping in front of Jeff (I'm still not and we've been married for 8 years). I asked him to turn the water on and go far away. He said he did, but he lied. I let it all out, he heard it all. Died laughing, and I just cried. Then the toilet overflowed and got all over our bathing suits which were on the floor. There you go, was that tmi???

Okay, so I now tag Sandy and Stacy!! I love you guys!!!

2007-08-12T16:27:00.000-05:00

I love it that I am 29, and I can still have slumber parties! I laugh so hard when they are over, and I swear they keep me young. I love these girls to pieces!!

Stephanie and Kylie wrestling! I can't remember what it was over, but I am sure Kylie did something to provoke it!

Aimee attempting to keep a spoon on her nose.
We are all playing Dutch Blitz, our favorite game to play!
These girls FINALLY went to sleep around 6:30!

2007-08-06T08:38:00.000-05:00

Jeff surprised me with a night away at Post Oak Lodge. We went swimming, fishing, shopping, and to a Tulsa Drillers game. The weekend was priceless. Here are few pictures and videos (for the grandparents) of our fun :)

2007-07-11T22:35:00.000-05:00

FOURTH OF JULY

We went over to our friend Katie's house for the holiday. Jeff was in Costa Rica so it was just me and the kids (we missed you Jeff!). They had the best backyard, I felt like I should pay to get in :) The kids had a blast. Austin's favorite thing was the slip n slide, he went down non-stop for hours! Brenden's favorite was of course, playing with a ball. Afterwards, we shot off some fireworks.

Brenden went down all of one time and decided it wasn't for him.

"How far can I hold this sparkler away from me, and still be brave in front of Jacob?"

Shannon-don't you think he looks a lot like Brandon in this picture??

2007-07-05T15:58:00.000-05:00

It has been a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day! (from Alexander's book, in case you are wondering :) Well, I have no pictures to post (for good reason), just a long story. My day started at 4:00 am (after 1 1/2 hours of sleep), I got up to head to the airport. I planned so well, the boys slept in the clothes they were going to wear, their carry-on bags were completely packed, cups already made, suitcases already packed, all I had to do was wake-up get in the van and leave. We got to the airport one hour and ten minutes before we had to leave, and I thought we were doing good. I took our luggage to curbside, and then I was going to park the van and get shuttled back to the airport. Well....because I had two carseats, the skycap had to finish my check-in inside, but first he took care of everyone else behind me in the line, went inside, and took another 10 minutes, and then FINALLY came out with my tickets. I am now 30 minutes away from my plane leaving. I explained to him that I still had to park my van, and he said, I am not sure you are going to make it. AHH! I rushed to a parking spot. I put my license in my pocket, knowing I would need it again, grabbed the kids and took off. I saw no shuttle in the parking lot, so we all started to run back to the terminal. Austin ran half the way, rode on my back the other half. I get to security, get through the line, and go to get my license out of my pocket, not there. AHH!! It must have fallen out with all the running. We take off running again, looking everywhere it might have fallen. We make it back to the van and still didn't see it, then to the left about 20 feet away, I saw something white on the ground. I was never happier, praising God very loud!! This time we did see a shuttle, but we still had to run to it. Got back to the terminal, ran to security, I am now drenched in sweat. I get to the front of the line, only to realize that I left the diaper bag and Austin's backpack in the van. It was either miss my plane, or go without it. I chose the latter. That meant no diapers, no toys, no breakfast, no sippy cups, no camera, no dvd player. NOTHING! I was so upset. I made it to the gate, literally the last one on the plane, but the lady at the counter gave me some diapers and wipes, and then we were off, praying that the kids would be fine (luckily Brenden still had his doggy). When we reached Dallas, we had a tight connection, and of course, our gate was on the exact opposite side of the airport, but we did have time to use the restroom, grab gummy bears and teddy grahams for breakfast, and again are the last ones to get on the plane. I am glad to say the kids were awesome on the plane!!! We got to Corpus only to have only half our luggage. What could I do but laugh. We went shopping, got a new diaper bag, and replaced everything else that was inside. Except for my camera, which I am so sad that I do not have this whole trip, therefore no pictures to post. My luggage arrived later in the afternoon, and we are here safe in sound. So my terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day did get a little better.

2007-07-02T15:07:00.000-05:00

More pictures from our vacation...we went to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and MGM Studios. I always say, if you want to see the worst behaved kids, go to Disney, and we did see quite a bit!! :) But I am happy to say, the boys were actually really good! Brenden would point and laugh at EVERYTHING!! Austin liked the rides, but his favorite part would have to be meeting the Green "Inja" (ninja) Power Ranger.

The petting zoo was Brenden's favorite part (imagine that...)

The boys were so sweet in the stroller. Brenden would lay his head on Austin, and Austin would rub his back. Awww!

2007-07-02T14:39:00.000-05:00

I did it!! This blog has been 8 months in the making, and I finally added some pictures (from a little pressure from some of the teens...thanks alot Stephanie, Kylie and Catelyn!) These are pictures from our Florida vacation at the beach. Austin loved the water (of course, it took him awhile to warm up to it), but Brenden went right after it. Everytime a wave would come, he would just laugh and laugh (which was alot). If one knocked him under, all the better. When he finally got tired of it, he would tell the waves NO, NO!

Jeff, Austin, and Brenden all took turns getting buried in the sand. With Jeff's arms detained, Brenden took advantage by throwing sand in his face and pushing his "nippies" :)

Yes, that is Brenden putting sand in his mouth.