The Carlisle 5

Memorial Day Backyard Fun

2011-06-01T16:13:00.000-04:00

*WARNING* POST CONTAINS LOTS OF CUTE PICTURES!

So what is more American the Baseball and BBQ? That is what we did Monday. Hit the backyard for some baseball and bbq fun. The Kids enjoyed the sunshine, fresh air, and just being outside.

Hoola Hooping is big at our house, especially since Audrey has seemed to perfect it. Mason is till working on it.

Some times it is just better to sit down and watch the fun. Although, I am not sure that sitting like that is comfortable.

This was the first time in weeks all three of them had gotten along for more than 5 minutes. What were they doing? Playing in the mud of course!

Mason even made a mudsicle. That is so boy of him! LOL They were a mess!

Then Audrey got creative and wanted me to put these big pieces of grass in her hair.

Monkey see, Monkey do. Gracie wanted me to fix her hair the same way.

All in all we had a great time and a quiet evening, cause everyone was worn out and went to bed early!

Audrey the Movie Star!

2011-05-19T15:42:00.000-04:00

What happens when you are in Target for over an hour trying to shop and check prices. You end up with a very bored 3 Year old who take the iPod and creates her own entertainment. It turns out...it is entertaining for all! Check out Audreys video. LOL

Tree with Pink Flowers & Audreys Photo Skills

2011-04-30T13:04:00.000-04:00

There is this tree, that is unlike any we have ever seen before in person...being from Florida. It is full of pretty pink flowers, and every morning when we drive by after taking the kids to school Audrey asks me to take a picture. Well, I finally remembered the camera and took a picture of the tree. Put the camera down and continued to drive to Target.

I kept hearing this clicking sound and looked over. My Jr. Photographer was snapping pictures. LOL Check out some of her pro shots. Yes, she even took some of herself.

Easter Weekend

2011-04-27T23:19:00.000-04:00

The Sun made a debut for just long enough Easter morning for us to hit the backyard for an Easter Egg hunt! While it wasn't as warm and sunny as we would have liked we made due and had a blast in the yard!

Mason pretended he wasn't snatching all the eggs!

Audrey found 1 or 2 for herself.

But the girls ended up distracted by the wildflowers growing in the yard.

Then Gracie got busy when she realized the skirt of her dress would fly up when she spun. I think she ended up super dizzy!

She came and sat by me and watched the Robins in the yard for a bit.

Then Mr. Mason got busy with the bubbles. Better him than me. They wear me out with those things. I need to invest in another bubble machine.

I love this picture of Audrey. She was bringing me some flowers. She was such a little lady in her coat and dress.

Then the lady went right out the window when she tried to Hoola Hoop. Which she managed to do and was absolutely thrilled!

Olive Monster

2011-04-21T17:41:00.000-04:00

I think it is a cute little olive monster! I spotted it the other night at my dinner table. All I could do was snap this quick picture and then it was gone. I heard screams from down the hall and then, Audrey came around the corner. I am beginning to think it was somehow related.

SNOW in APRIL

2011-04-16T09:44:00.000-04:00

It is not December, although the kids did ask if we could get the Christmas tree out. It is April. Seriously, my last post was Daffodils and now snow. I don't pretend to understand the weather here. One day 70 the next 30. That would help explain the mass amount of tissues we have gone through and the constant sound of snorts and sniffles.

We are ready for sunshine, warmth, grilling and yard work! Instead. We have this.

Spring in Iowa

2011-04-05T19:47:00.000-04:00

Spring is here. Atleast that is what my brain is telling me. The weather however has been anything but springlike. I have tried willing it to get warm. I have tried praying for sunshine. The only thing that I have accompished is keeping it from snowing this week. LOL

I did get warm today. By warm I mean 60 degrees. On the way to school I found these beautiful Daffodils outside the kids school. I wanted to snap some pictures of them before the kids picked them all. I am sure some people looked at me strange with my camera outside the school, but I don't care. It's not everyday you see a field of Daffodils.

After school I got my beautiful tribe outside to blow the stink off. We have been cooped up for way too long. The hoola hooped and played while I raked some of the gazillion leaves.

My Totum of Cute Carlisle Kids.

First Day of School

2011-03-09T11:05:00.001-05:00

So today was the kids first day of school here in Iowa. They will be going to Harrison Elementary. While I miss my little guys I know that they needed to get out and spread their wings before I went crazy.

We had a tour of the school this morning and they really seemed to like it and be excited. Even the other kids already knew who they were. I pick them up at 3:40 PM and I am sure they will both have stories to tell about their day.

As for Audrey, we have played her caterpillar game and she has no one fighting her for the TV. It is eerily quiet!

Our First Snow

2011-03-05T15:17:00.000-05:00

We are here in Cedar Rapids getting used to the cold weather. We had our first snow right after we arrived. The kids were amazed! It happened in the evening so there really wasn't a chance to play in it until the next day.

We still found time to enjoy a nice warm fire.

When we did go outside the first thing on all of their minds was a snow ball fight! I tried to stay out of the line of fire. Here are some of the pictures of the battle.

Hitting the Beach While We Can

2011-02-03T00:59:00.000-05:00

David has taken a job at his companies corporate office in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. As of March 1st we will be Iowans. I guess that is the term. Anyway...we will miss the beach...TERRIBLY! We are hitting it while we can. So be prepared for an onslaught of beach photos.

A day in the life...of Audrey

2011-01-28T22:43:00.000-05:00

When you are 3 your mood can change quickly. WHY? Beats me...I am just the Mom of this cute 3 year old.

She is all happy and smiles....AND THEN! Somebody says something out of line...watch out!

Poor Mason is attacked and it is caught on film! LOL...he is all smiles now. Just wait till she is bigger and those punches are harder.

What?? I have to say sorry? Really Mom?

A little kiss makes everything better! I don't know what is cuter Audrey's mood swings, or Mason's big gummy grin!

Mason's Lost Teeth

2011-01-25T13:45:00.000-05:00

As if he wasn't cute enough Mason had to go and loose his 2 front teeth! The tooth fairy will be visiting us tonight for sure!

His sisters were so excited for him, and the opportunity to embarrass him, they gave him a big fat kiss on the cheek.

Audrey Reading Brown Bear Brown Bear

2010-12-21T13:25:00.000-05:00

Just a quick clip of my cutie reading Brown Bear Brown Bear...please excuse her nakedness.

Jacque The Crayfish's Days are numbered

2010-12-20T20:45:00.000-05:00

The kids have a fish tank, which has been a great addition to the house until now. We went to the pet store yesterday and added some fun new friends to our tank. Audrey is on a Nemo kick, so we had to be creative. They had these Crayfish for $1.50. I couldn't resist. The lady at the pet store said, and I quote, "Oh they are simple, They just eat what ever is on the bottom."

Now, I took her at her word. I can do simple. No special food, no worries. Some of you know that I do not do creepy crawly slimy things. I just don't...I make no excuses. This Crayfish has decided that he does not like the confines of his lovely tank home any more. He is trying to break free.

I am not talking tapping on the glass. We are talking methodically trying to plan an escape. He has so far climbed the barrel, the reached over and grabbed a plant, then stretched for the tubing and climbed for the top. This creature of 3 inches apparently has a good sized brain to have figured all of this out in his less than 24 hours in my tank.

So now what! The kids love him, and he is entertaining. But I do not want to live in fear of a creepy crawly with claws loose in my house. ~UGH~ It gives me the willies! When Audrey first saw it at the top of the tank, I asked her what we should do. She had the most logical suggestion yet. Mama, get the net and flush it. LOL. Well, we aren't going to that extreme yet, but if Jacque keeps trying to escape. His days in the Carlisle house are numbered! We may just have to take him for a humane release in the creek. I will recover from my $1.50 loss. :)

I know...It's been awhile!

2010-12-12T00:45:00.000-05:00

With all the blogging I have been doing over at A Few Short Cuts, I find less and less time to blog on the personal blog. Since so many have facebook and other ways to keep in touch, it just hasn't been necessary!

I am going to try to do a better job of documenting our day to day lives. I know it is a great way to show all of you what we are up to!

We did go to Disney recently and I have a ton of pictures from that! I will try to get those up tomorrow! :)

Where have we been??? The beach of course!

2010-06-23T19:45:00.004-04:00

I didn't realize it had been so long since I posted anything! Where have we been?? The beach of course! It is hot enough, we live close enough, and it doesn't cost anything!

Here are some highlights of our beach excursions!

Happy Easter Bunny!

2010-04-04T20:28:00.003-04:00

We had a great Easter full of food, and fun! Here are some of the Highlights!

I'm a bad family blogger!

2010-03-29T21:46:00.003-04:00

I apparently just can't keep up lately! We have been going in so many directions it is hard to know which way is up. Here are a few pictures of what we have been doing lately!

Our trip to Disney

2010-03-05T15:29:00.002-05:00

I am behind. There is just too much going on lately. Schooling, housework, my blog, soccer, DISNEY, etc. Oh yeah, I said Disney!

Because of my blog we were able to go for 4 days and stay at the Polynesian for the Disney Social Media Moms Conference. We had an amazing time. Here are some of the pictures!

Washington Oaks Park take 2

2010-01-18T22:07:00.006-05:00

We tried to go to this park this summer and the mosquitoes tried to carry us away. So, we are trying again while it is cold outside and their are no bugs!

My kids are nuts! Oh...wait....they are just looking for nuts.

They even tried to call whales! You can imagine how well that worked.

We found lots of wildlife! A starfish on the beach, and a snake in the gardens.

This picture doesn't need words. It describes these two to a tee!

Attempting to make the trip educational.

Just hanging out and having fun!

Audrey's Birthday

2010-01-18T21:57:00.004-05:00

Audrey had a great 2nd birthday! There was plenty of cake to go around!

A brand new kitchen to cook in..pretend at least.

Tons of balloons, and even more love!

Christmas 2009

2010-01-01T16:06:00.003-05:00

It has been awhile....I know! One of my New Years Resolutions is to post more pictures of my darling children!

We had a super Christmas and New Years! I am just going to post a sideshow! Hope you guys had a super Christmas too!

We have a birthday coming up in 10 days!!! Oh....I don't think I can catch a break!

View all

Get your own

Our Evening on the Beach

2009-11-12T12:08:00.001-05:00

When there is a storm brewing we don't board up the windows.
We go to the beach!

We took the kids for a sunset walk on the beach Sunday night.

We found all kinds of things washed up from Hurricane Ida.
Including this coconut!

David even got this really cute picture of the kids and Me.
If only my eyes were open!

Then....the camera lens got covered in sea mist.

So...I didn't think you wanted to see fogged up pictures, but it was a beautiful evening!

We went to the park today

2009-11-06T17:41:00.003-05:00

We loaded the kids up and took them to the park for a picnic!

David grilled Hot dogs while we hit up the slides and swings.

We took a nature hike.

And then took a look at the water.

We all had a super time!

As soon as we got home Audrey got a nice long nap!

Halloween 2009

2009-11-02T09:05:00.002-05:00

There was a Bumble Bee, Wolverine, and a Fairy .....

Sounds like the beginning to a good joke, but it was just Halloween at the Carlisle House.
Mason and Audrey posed while waiting for the Fairy to finish her costume.

Wolverine couldn't smile because ,"Mom I am Wolverine! He looks like this!"

Audrey was authentic Bumble Bee! She flitted around from place to place never holding still!

And last but not least Gracie made a beautiful Fairy!

They had a great time trick or treating and had an even better Halloween!

Fall in Florida = HOT

2009-10-12T22:28:00.004-04:00

Fall in Florida is just plain Hot. We have one confused tree in the back yard that thinks it is in the Carolinas or somewhere that actually has seasons.

Every year it looses it's leaves right on time. The kids love it. To tell you the truth, I do too. It at least gives the yard the appearance of Fall.

Me and my genius ideas. I thought I could get all three kids to sit under the tree and get a really cute Fall picture.

Did you really think they would all hold still and look at the camera at the same time? Yeah...it's not happening. Maybe when they are in their 20's I will get one good picture of all of them! :)

They played in the leaves and kicked the ball around before it was time to go in. All in all a great day!

First Game of the Season

2009-09-19T21:28:00.000-04:00

Today was opening day of the Fall Soccer season.

Gracie is playing U-12 which is all girls!
They are just huge!

She played really well!
I still have to get the hang of cheering, watching, and taking pictures at the same time!

Blowing the Stink Off!

2009-09-19T21:23:00.000-04:00

We got everyone outside after David cut the grass yesterday!

Mason dug in the garden.

Audrey and Mason chased his new remote control car.

And they enjoyed their new bubble machine...
it is the 4th one we have bought....
but it is better than blowing all the bubbles myself!

Penguins of Lowry Park

2009-09-13T22:40:00.002-04:00

Here is a quick video of this penguin at Lowry Park that befriended the kids.

Zoo and More

2009-09-13T19:34:00.003-04:00

Mason's birthday is Tuesday! He requested a trip to the Zoo for his birthday, so we took him this weekend. The kids had the best time! We spent a good part of the day Friday at the zoo. Gracie rode Gator Falls by herself! She was so excited!

Then...Friday afternoon we went to Papa's and saw the cows!
Then on Saturday, after I recuperated from a horrible migraine we went to the Florida Aquarium!

It was crowded, but fun!

We enjoyed visiting with family and swimming at Nana's for the rest of the weekend!

We are now home and resting...tomorrow is the first day of soccer practice!

Popsicle People

2009-08-29T16:16:00.004-04:00

I had my arm twisted this afternoon.
They all wanted a Popsicle.
It is like a rebel uprising. One asks the question,"Can I have a Popsicle?"
Then they all attack.

Since I know what kind of mess can be created with 3 colorful popsicles....we went out back to sit under the Maple Tree.

They shared their germs.

And made their lips all different shades!

We played a few minutes.

and finished our popsicles.

Then, we saw the one popsicle that was left...

And we cried until it was gone...

and then we came inside.

Back Yard Fun!

2009-08-20T14:51:00.003-04:00

It was time to get out of the house.

The kids love being outside.

After a storm in the area cooled things off it was nice for us all to go out!

Audrey tried to steal the Hula Hoop

And then she found a lizard....she says,"Awww it's cute!"
She also said that about and ant and a beetle!

They crawled, Climbed, and ran!

They even played Soccer!

Mason gave Audrey a leaf...

She tried super hard to repay the favor!

And did!

Grasshopper User

2009-08-20T14:47:00.000-04:00

Had to get a picture!
Gracie's words exactly were
"It used on my hand!"

Too funny!

Lazy Summer Day!

2009-08-09T20:42:00.000-04:00

It was HOT today, as it has been for quite awhile!
That doesn't stop the kids from starring out the window like 3 little lost puppies, when I tell them it is too hot to go out!

So, today I set up all of their outside water play stuff and let them have at it!
After sunscreen of course!

They had fun as always with their slip N Slide and pool.

After 3 hours, I am tired, and they want to go to the beach....what is wrong with this picture?!

July Pictures

2009-07-26T16:29:00.004-04:00

I am falling behind, I know. We have had a lot going on over the past couple of weeks. Here are some of the cute pictures I have of the kids.

More Summer Fun!

2009-07-15T20:21:00.000-04:00

This week...this picture says it all!
This is how my kids have been acting...
Inside and out!

They can still be sweet!
They had a lot of fun outside in the sprinkler!
My Grandma is visiting so expect more great pictures!

Splashtacular Fourth

2009-07-04T19:31:00.000-04:00

We are lucky enough to have really sweet neighbors that let us borrow there pool!
We took the kids over for an afternoon full of swimming and splashing!
Everyone had a SUPER time as usual!

A Few Short Cuts

2009-07-04T11:46:00.003-04:00

After thinking about doing it for quite some time. I started my own blog, but this time as a business venture. I have seen other sites by other moms that run their blogs and make money on ads and sponsors. I am hoping to do the same. It is a learning process and I am still trying to figure it all out. So, I hope you guys will check out my new blog. It will be full of recipes, coupons, and sales ideas.

Be patient with me, because I am still trying to get it all straight.

Http://AFewShortCuts.Blogspot.com

Watermelon Wagon

2009-06-30T20:35:00.001-04:00

Watermelon and Wagons! Two of our favorite things that start with "W"!
A couple of days ago I bought a watermelon at the grocery store. They only had seeded watermelons, so we took this one outside!
The girls loved to spit the seeds. Mason isn't a fruit eater, so he had a Popsicle.

I let everybody run around and play. Audrey wanted a ride, so I was her chauffeur around the yard. I got some super cute pictures of her with the watermelon while we explored.

Mason did his own exploring in his playhouse. He likes to climb up there are throw things at the woods.

They are really having a ton of fun this summer! Who knows what we'll get into next?

Sun, Slides, Friends, and FUN!

2009-06-26T20:35:00.001-04:00

It was a beautiful day today!
Just happened to look up when the sun went behind a cloud and shot this breathtaking picture!

We got out the slip and slide, the pool and a handful of toys for an afternoon of fun!
We called Christine and Harrison to come over a join us.

Audrey and Harrison splashed and ran.

There was even some sharing!
Then, we had a Popsicle to cool off right before it rained!
All in all it was a great afternoon!

Baby Creepy Crawly Jumpy Things

2009-06-26T20:29:00.001-04:00

Check out the baby frog and lizard we found today. The hand model is compliments of Gracie! She likes to hold the nasty little things!

Washington Oaks State Gardens Park

2009-06-23T13:42:00.004-04:00

Today we ventured out to a new place! Washington Oaks State Gardens Park.
It is on two sides of the road...
The first side has beautiful gardens.....and swarms of mosquitoes big enough to carry away a small child!
The second has a gorgeous coquina beach.

We attempted to view the gardens.
I really wanted to try, but after visibly seeing at least 20 mosquitoes swarming 1 child when we stopped to look at some fish we decided to run for the car.

So, the beach it was.
It has been extremely hot here lately, but the breeze at the beach was wonderful.

There were a ton of sea turtle nests!

So, we are tying in a lesson on sea turtles, conservation, and coquina rocks.

(multitasking!)

The kids really enjoyed the coquina rocks, and just walking on the beach!

We will go back to check out the gardens more when we are covered in bug spray!

Enjoys the rest of the photos it the slide show!

Just gross!

2009-06-17T16:13:00.001-04:00

As some of you are aware....

I HATE FROGS!

I have an issue with frogs.

If they are outside minding their own business I am fine.
When they come into my territory I have a problem!

Since we have lived in the house we had these wonderful Tree/Rain frogs that decided they like my bathroom.
They found there way down the toilet vent on the roof and into my bathroom.
Just to type it gives me the willies!

So, I went to lowes and bought the wonderful contraption seen here

Yes, that is a frog!
A disgusting creature that tried to get into my bathroom!

This time he didn't make it.

I wouldn't have noticed him had I not been outside coming back from my neighbors house.

I just hope this deters any of his friends from trying the same thing!

Just Beachy!

2009-06-16T11:50:00.002-04:00

We live only 10 minutes from the beach!
This is the first time we have been since Audrey was born.
That is pathetic!
We had such a great time!

We WILL definitely be going a lot more often!

We are going to have to let David's sunburn get better before we go back!
Check out the rest of our photos in the slideshow!
There are some really good ones!

Self tanner gone wrong!

2009-06-05T18:24:00.004-04:00

I don't know what exactly my almost 17 month old was thinking.
I put her bowl of spaghetti on her tray,
gave her her fork,
turned around, and
this is what I found!

I have no explanation!

Outside with Daddy!

2009-06-05T18:19:00.003-04:00

Here are a ton of pictures of our outside playday with daddy!

They got into all kinds of stuff!

Never too tired to smile!

2009-06-01T22:35:00.004-04:00

Well, after an emotionally exhausting day, I layed out in the recliner.
I was done.
So ready just to hand the kids to David and go hide for the rest of the afternoon.
Audrey climbed up in my lap to cuddle.
The little kid whose screams all day long had wore on my nerves, wanted to cuddle.
She is such a sweetie!
If only she would stop yelling!
Daddy took over camera duties and got some cute shots of Audrey and Me.
I hope tomorrow is a "quieter" day!

This afternoon....third post today!

2009-05-29T17:17:00.002-04:00

Yes, I have made 3 posts today.
Don't get used to it!
I just have been lucky to get some super cute pictures.

After Audrey's nap we had lunch and then went outside.
If you can't tell I am trying to wear my kids out today.
They played outside for a while.
Audrey learned how to ride the power wheel.
She was so cute!

Christine and Harrison came over while we were outside.
Audrey was so happy to see Harrison.
She has been asking for "Hair" all week.

They played and had a good time!

The Park...By Our House....with the Jungle Gym.

2009-05-29T10:00:00.002-04:00

This morning we got up early...which we haven't done lately.
We took David to the truck, and I told the kids that since we got up early I would take them to the park before it got hot.
On the way home I heard the following comments repeatedly.

We are going to the park?
What park?
The park by our house?
It has a Jungle Gym!
I want to go to the park with the jungle gym!
Are we going to the park by our house with the Jungle Gym?

I was exhausted by the time we were done talking about it.

We came home, had breakfast, and hit the road.
They had a big time!

Mason climbed to the top of the Jungle gym for the first time.
Gracie wanted to, but hasn't worked up the nerve yet. (fear of heights)
I think she will next time though.
She is 8 and to let her 4 year old brother do something that she hasn't done isn't going to last long.

We had a fun morning!
Audrey is already taking a nap.
Hope the afternoon will be just as fun.

When the Rain Stops....

2009-05-29T07:47:00.003-04:00

When the rain stops, what do we do? We go outside and get wet! I didn't realize how crazy it was until I was looking at the pictures, but it is true!

The kids had a blast! We had a big outside family day! We had the pool, slip n slide, sprinkler, toys and rice krispie treats. We were outside for a couple hours judging by Mason's tan line, and that is after SPF 50.

They were glad to get out, and I was glad to let them out. Today, we are off to the park. Expect more pictures!

The last 5 days in review

2009-05-21T20:08:00.009-04:00

RAIN

There you are. The last 5 days in review.

Just kidding.

Really, it has rained here for almost 5 days non-stop.
Until this afternoon, but of course there is more rain in the forecast for the next few days.

You think I am kidding???

Check these out!

Even this sad little squirrel tried to stay dry by using his tail as an umbrella.

Well, before the rain began.....Exactly 20 minutes before......we set up the slip and slide!

We had planned on having and afternoon outside with slip and slide, BBQ, snow cones, and fun!

Then, the thunder began!

We haven't been outside since!

What have we been doing you ask?

A little bit of everything.

We have turned the music up and danced, watched movies, made treats, played games, dug out toys, cleaned house, played the Wii.

And then Audrey decided it was time!

Time to revolt!

We still can't go out?

She protested by having herself arrested....

(She actually put herself in the kennel with her blankie, and a book. Very comfy!)

After her short time behind bars it was time for cookies and milk.

After that, she got a nap.

Gracie and Mason have handled it all quiet well so far.

Stay tuned....tomorrow is another day....let's hope it isn't day 6 of the rain!

Soccer, Rain, and a trophy

2009-05-16T13:28:00.003-04:00

This morning Gracie had her final soccer game of the season. She did really well and almost scored a goal in the final minute of the game. When we arrived at the park this morning it was sunny and warm. By half time we were all soaking wet. A small spring shower moved in from the coast and drenched all of us. It was OK, because we did need cooled off I guess. Since this was Gracie's last game she got another trophy to add to her collection. Enjoy some of the photos from my new camera.

Family Trip

2009-05-15T13:13:00.002-04:00

We took a little trip post Mother's Day. We left home late Monday and headed into visit David's Granny and my Dad, and everyone else. We had a great visit. We are now home and getting settled. The kids love to go see everyone, but they are so glad to be back in their own beds. I am going to post a slideshow, because their are so many pictures!

I also got a new camera today! It is bigger and better than the last, so keep an eye out for new and improved pictures on my next post!

The many faces of Audrey

2009-05-10T19:40:00.006-04:00

I got carried away with the camera today.

I was really trying to figure out all of the one million settings on my camera.
So....enjoy the many faces of Audrey Jane Carlisle!

By the way...she picked the outfit this morning. She said, "pity gil"...translation,"Pretty Girl"

My Mothers Day Art!

2009-05-10T18:00:00.003-04:00

In a moment of temporary insanity I took my 3 kids, paint, brushes, and canvases outside. After about an hour and a half everyone was covered in paint, dirt, sweat and water (courtesy of Mason and the hose). We are now all showered and I have some beautiful art to hang on my walls to remember this mothers day forever! Check it out!

And They're Off!....

2009-05-07T22:32:00.004-04:00

Gracie had a soccer game Saturday. Almost a week has passed, I know. It has been a busy week. Anyway, she did really great. No goals, but she played defense most of the game. She is getting really good! Yes, the hair ribbons are a necessary accessory. Even though she is in sports we still have to be girly!

Audrey was all dressed up in her cutest outfit ever! I put this big hat on her for the sole purpose to keep the sun out of her face. It was pure coincidence that it was Kentucky Derby day. I honestly had no clue!

Mason has decided that Gracie's soccer games and practices are the best now, because of all the little friends he has made. One in particular has curly blond hair and her name is Hayley. He acts like he doesn't want to play with her, but it is adorable to see this little girl come walking up and ask where Mason is. They pulled their chairs next to each other today at practice and had a little chat. TOO CUTE! These are the blackmail pictures that will come out sometime in High School!

The Evolution of the Popcorn Ball!

2009-05-01T14:28:00.012-04:00

This morning Christine dropped Harrison off so she could get some things done. At this point, who notices one more? :) He is a great little guy to have around. All of the kids played all morning and had a great time.

Audrey has been carrying a wrapped popcorn ball around now for a week. She couldn't get it open, so I didn't care. This morning, in all of her excitement, the package finally popped open!

Enjoy the Evolution of the Popcorn Ball!

Audrey with the newly opened popcorn ball

(yes...it is a Halloween wrapper....so shoot me :) )

Audrey then relocated to the comfort of her bean bag.

Harrison spots popcorn ball.

Harrison comes over for a taste.

Harrison goes back to the shopping cart.

Audrey continues in popcorn ball bliss.

Harrison decided that the popcorn ball was pretty good.

It continued this way until I finally stepped in and took the remaining piece.
They are too cute!

Gracies Soccer Picture

2009-04-27T22:08:00.003-04:00

Here is Gracies soccer picture from this season. I will post more pictures tomorrow. She did really well at her game this evening!

Swimming and Stealing Photos

2009-04-26T19:43:00.004-04:00

It has been hot! We had a nice peaceful weekend. David had to go back to work today, but before he did we took the kids outside and played. They always love when we all go out. I was delinquent and didn't take the camera out. Then, Christine invited us over to go swimming. So, after we dropped David off the kids and I loaded the wagon and headed across the street for our first of many swim sessions this summer.

They had a blast. Gracie is really getting the hang of swimming. Mason is a good kicker as long as he has all of his floaties (you have to love is over cautiousness!) It took Audrey all of 2 minutes to get used to the water, 10 minutes to decide it was fun, and 20 minutes later she was ready to get rid of mom and swim on her own. She put her but in the air, her face in, and kicked her feet. I didn't let her go just yet of course, but don't be surprised if she is a swimmer by the end of the season.

I am stealing Christine's photos, because I was bad and didn't use my camera at all today. So, Thank you Christine for the pictures!

Horifying

2009-04-21T09:32:00.003-04:00

At first glance at this picture you think, "OH NO!!! What happened to the baby!" Don't worry! It isn't blood. My extreemly busy 15 month old knows how to open the pantry. She also doesn't understand ,"NO" or "Put that back." Audrey opened the pantry and started pulling out jars of spices (which isn't unusual). I got distracted with the other kids, and went to find Audrey, who had found the Crystal Light, opened the big container, and had pulled out the little tubs. This wouldn't have been an issue if she wasn't teething (AGAIN). She then starting gnawing on the little tubs resulting in the beautiful red color seen here. By the way....Crystal Light Stains. Everything. Including babies. I won't be taking her anywhere today! :) OH well. By the way in the second picture she is saying SHHH. Like it is a secret what she has done.

Easter

2009-04-12T18:30:00.003-04:00

We had a really nice day! The kids were visited by the Easter bunny this morning. We all got dressed up and went outside for an Easter egg hunt. They truly enjoyed that. Then, we came in and had lunch, played, napped, and I cooked. We just finished eating. It has been such a nice day and we have a lot of great pictures. Including the long awaited family picture. Thank goodness for the camera timer!

What Audrey learned from Huck

2009-04-02T17:01:00.000-04:00

I know kids are supposed to teach their dogs tricks, but my dog taught my baby a trick. Audrey has seen Huck scratch at the door when he wants to go out. Apparently she thinks that it is a pretty efficient system. Check out the video to see what I mean.

Testing Testing...1 2 3

2009-03-31T18:21:00.000-04:00

Monday and Today Gracie had to do standardized testing at the school. It took longer than we expected both days. We had to stay on campus with her since she is home schooled. Monday was difficult! Even though I was slightly prepared with snacks and a couple toys, I was not prepared to stay there until NOON.

Today was better. We sat in the car and watching a movie, then got out to play. I brought the camera and snapped some cute pictures of Mason and Audrey while they were playing. They always want to dig in the dirt. They are so fun to watch.

March Misc.

2009-03-28T14:34:00.000-04:00

Ok....I am posting this slide show of our March Miscellaneous pictures. They are our photos that just didn't make it in a post but are cute and I would like to share them. Enjoy!

GOOOOAAAALLLL!

2009-03-28T13:46:00.000-04:00

It is official! Gracie scored her first goal! Today was picture day before the game so we got there early. She was ready when the game started. She loves soccer and has really gotten better every season. She had 2 near goals before her big score. She was so excited! She is ready to try and do it again next week.

Mason also has made a friend named, Ethan. He is really excited to have another 4 year old little boy to play with. They played with his animals, shared a snack, and were super heroes today.

Audrey was just happy to be outside. She met another baby today. However, we still haven't mastered the technique of sharing. She will get the hang of it. So, it has been a great day! We are off to make cookies to celebrate the big win!

Dirty Fun!

2009-03-24T19:25:00.000-04:00

This afternoon, as usual, our neighbor Christine came over with her little boy, Harrison, and dog, Jo Jo. The kids love to play with Jo Jo and throw the ball for him. Harrison and Audrey play and Christine and I have time to chat about what has been going on.

This afternoon, the kids officially turned my garden into the best digging place ever! They had the biggest time. They dug, they built, they ate!? Yes, the little ones like to eat dirt. Don't ask, because we don't understand.

Here is an example of how well Audrey shares, and some pictures of all the dirty fun.

To see more pictures click on Christine's Blog Link on the right. The Lyons Den.

(Sorry I was too lazy to post them all)

Perks of living in Florida

2009-03-15T19:51:00.000-04:00

Well, one of the many perks we have, beside the beautiful weather of course, is our ability to see the space shuttles launch. Space shuttle Discovery took off right after sunset this evening and we can see them really well from the front yard! Here are a couple pictures!

Gracie's First Game of the Spring Season

2009-03-14T16:38:00.000-04:00

Here we go again. Spring soccer opener was today! Gracie is so excited! She has decided that she loves soccer. It doesn't hurt that the uniform is pink! Gracie did really well! The whole family got a tan in the process. It was 80 degrees today, which wasn't bad, but there was no shade.
While Gracie wasn't playing her and her friend Zoey were "making plans" to take out the other team. LOL! I think they did that the better part of the game ;). All in all it was a great game. Stay tuned....next week may be better!

By the way...she is number 5 this year.

Crafting it Foward

2009-03-04T20:38:00.000-05:00

As a lot of you know I love to do crafts. It is just finding the time to do them. Well, my friend Jaclyn posted this on her blog and I just couldn't resist. So, I am posting it here. Let's see if any of you bite!

Here is the deal: The first three people to respond to this post will get something made by me! My choice...For you. This offer does have some restrictions and limitations:

1- I make no guarantees that you will like what I make! But I will try my best!
2- What I create will be just for you.
3- It’ll be done this year.
4- You have no clue what it’s going to be.
5- I reserve the right to do something extremely strange.

The catch is that you must repost this on your blog....or pass it on by email, since some of you don't have a blog. Offer the same to the first 3 people who do the same on their blog or send emails. The first 3 people to do so and leave a comment telling me they did win a homemade gift by me! Oh, and be sure to post a picture of what you win when you get it!

Who’s in? Make sure to leave a comment when you post or email this foward!

February Fun Pictures

2009-03-01T15:30:00.000-05:00

I have been bad about getting pictures posted. I have no excuses. Here is a small slideshow with some really great pictures from February. I will try to be better in March!

Pellicer Creek Trip

2009-03-01T14:52:00.000-05:00

OK...not some much a trip. We just went down the road. There is a state park about 5 minutes from the house. We took the kids and went out on David's new boat for the day. Not a big boat, just big enough for us. The kids loved it! Mason made sure everyone had "lifesavers". Audrey looked like a turtle stuck in her shell. Gracie even helped Daddy steer the boat. We all had fun! Once Audrey started missing her nap it was time to turn around. Next time we are going fishing! Hopefully we will catch something. Here are a few pictures of our excursion!

Messy Messy Messy

2009-02-16T10:46:00.000-05:00

Audrey is messy! That is all there is to it. She can make a mess wherever she goes. Currently she has successfully been working on making the kitchen the most disgusting room in the house. :) She has been eating regular food for a while now. We go through phases of favorites. She really likes peas! She liked bananas for a while, now they are only cool if we get the whole banana so we can smash it into little bits. She love strawberries (bers). Daddy recently gave her some cut up hot dog....her response (YUM!). Here are some really cute pictures of Audrey and her mess at work. I believe there is a little bit of everything. Some Strawberry, Turkey, and baby goldfish.

Gracie is 8 !

2009-02-10T23:23:00.000-05:00

Gracie had her EIGHTH birthday on Feb 4th. It is hard to believe that she is 8! She is such a beautiful, smart, sweet and thoughtful girl! Don't get me wrong...she still knows how to push her brother's buttons, but she is sweet, and thoughtful none the less. :)

We had a great day. We woke up and at Gracie's request I mad french toast for breakfast. She opened all of her presents, and then we got ready to go out to eat. As with any other special occasion if you ask Gracie or Mason where they want to go you will get the same response..."Applebees!" So, We loaded everybody up and headed to St Augustine to go to Applebees.

We had a really nice lunch! The kids all behaved. Afterward, we went to Staples to buy a new computer because mine had died :(. Then, we stopped by Blockbuster and rented a movie and video game for the kids. We had a nice relaxing evening at home just enjoying each others company.

I didn't take as many pictures as usual because I was busy being a part of the birthday instead of being a photographer. Here are a few of the pictures I took.

Audrey's First Steps

2009-02-06T08:57:00.000-05:00

Gracie's Birthday Pictures will be up this afternoon. Just wanted to share this now.

Audrey's First Birthday

2009-01-11T10:20:00.000-05:00

Well, our baby is 1. She had a really great birthday yesterday! She woke up at her usual time and played with the balloons with Mason and Gracie. After everybody was up and had breakfast we let her open her presents. She really wasn't so interested in opening...she wanted to play with the balloons. So, we helped her with her presents.

We really just had a nice relaxing day as a family. We played, had BBQ, and just enjoyed the day. When it came time for cake. Audrey didn't know what to do, but she loved everyone singing to her. She had a little bit of cake but didn't tear into it. That didn't surprise me though because the other two didn't either. She gave us a present, she stood up in the middle of the floor without any help or holding on to anything. It will only be a matter of time before she is walking.

Please enjoy the incredibly long slide show. I apparently took more pictures than I realized.

Audrey's Birthday Cake

2009-01-09T13:38:00.000-05:00

After getting food coloring all over me, the kitchen, and every surface that I have come in contact with the cake is finished. Here it is!

It is the caterpillar from the beginning of the Baby Einstein movies. Audrey squeals when

she sees him because she knows her movie is coming on. I hope she likes it! I figured one of the sections could be her cake. I will post pictures of the big day after tomorrow.

P.S. Mason wants everyone to know that he is going to be a flying zookeeper when he grows up. :)

Happy 2009!

2009-01-05T16:34:00.000-05:00

Ok I am 5 days late...oh well! Anyway, We hope everyone had a great 2008! And we hope that 2009 is even better! We had a kid friendly New Year celebration. It started at 7pm and ended at 9:30. ;) David bought fireworks on his way home...."for the kids." So, we had a ton of big fireworks. We put on our own mini display. We could here ooohs and aaahs all over the neighborhood. Then, we had some hot chocolate and played Wii and put everybody to bed. It was uneventful but fun!

Sidenote: I was at the store today and bought these Eco-Planet organic cookies for the kids. They are awesome! I saw they had other products and a website, so I went online to check them out. I sent an email to customer service to find out where I could find there other products. I got an email within 2 minutes from the president of the company telling me that a case of product was being sent to my local store for me and would be there in a couple days. Now, that is customer service! I don't usually promote other peoples products, but it is rare that you find a company with such great customer service. Check them out they are really good! http://www.eco-planet.net/

Splish Splash!

2008-12-28T19:16:00.000-05:00

Like clockwork everyday at 5 pm I feed the kids dinner. At about 5:30 or 5:45 Audrey knows it is bath time. She will move her hands up and down like she is splashing and I will say, "Are you ready to go splish splash??" She will say ," ya" And Off we go. I just so happened to get some really cute pictures of her splashing in the tub!

Day after Christmas! OUTSIDE

2008-12-28T19:12:00.000-05:00

Ok...it was the day after Christmas and all through the house not a creature was stirring not even a mouse, because Mom kicked them out. I am not ashamed. The day after the inside of my house was tortured. I sent everybody outside to play and get all the extra energy out. They had run back and forth through the house more times than I could count. Daddy took them outside for a good couple of hours and just let them be rough and dirty kids.

Carlisle Christmas

2008-12-28T18:58:00.000-05:00

Another Christmas has come and gone. This Christmas was one of the best because it was the first with all three kids. Santa came when everyone went to bed. He filled the front room with presents. David and I filled in the rest of the space :). It was a great day! The kids had so much fun! Audrey just crawled from person to person to see what they got. They were overwhelmed! Here are some of our Christmas day pictures!

Florida Fall

2008-12-05T18:46:00.000-05:00

Well, it is December...and for Florida it has been unseasonable cold this year. We have had frost several times already. The maple tree in our backyard has just begun to turn colors and loose it's leaves. It is beautiful and the kids absolutely love playing with the leaves. Audrey has learned that if I dress her warm enough I will let her crawl around the yard. She has tried eating grass, pine needles, leaves, you name it. Gracie is going to have a fit with me because she thinks that I am horible for letting her. She has to learn some way. I explained to Gracie that I wouldn't let her do anything to get hurt. Then I get that 7 year old girl eye roll. She'll learn one day.

I got a few really cute pictures of Audrey and Mason in the yard playing with the leaves. We went outside to play before we had to get Gracie from the bus. Maybe I will get them all out there tomorrow and get a picture of all three of them. Audrey and Mason are finally geting over their colds, and hopefully Gracie doesn't bring us anymore before Christmas.

Risky Business???

2008-12-02T12:23:00.000-05:00

Ever have one of those days where you are exhausted have a million things to do and don't know which one of them to do first? Well, I had one of those days yesterday.

While I was in the process of cleaning up the living room, I picked up an empty tissue box and asked Mason to throw it away. He paused, looked at the box, and asked if he could have it. I, of course, said, "It is trash. What are you going to do with it?" He told me he was going to use it for a project and ran off. A few minutes went by then he came back and asked me for some rubber bands. I have learned not to question such requests, so I told him they were on my desk. Then, he came back. "Mom, can we go outside to get a stick?" I told him, "no", "You can use my yard stick if that will work." Off he ran. A few minutes later he came into the room with a homemade guitar. It was absolutely adorable and ingenious. I was so impressed! He was so happy with his guitar! He still hasn't wanted to put it down. I still can't stop smiling about how smart and creative it was.

With Christmas around the corner and me worrying about what Santa is going to bring. My son found an empty tissue box, rubber bands and a yard stick and is so happy he can't stand it. It makes me realize that I am going crazy over nothing. They will find a way to play with just about anything and be happy. They are kids. They are creative, imaginative, beautiful children, who always look at everything sunny side up. We should all try to look at things that way.

That said, after he made his guitar I took pictures. Mason is always running around in his underwear. He is the cutest little rock star ever!

Christmas Card Photo Preview

2008-11-22T15:25:00.000-05:00

It isn't quite Thanksgiving yet, but I got a coupon from snapfish.com for Christmas Cards and decided I need to get the ball rolling. It has been so cold here lately I couldn't take the kids outside for pictures because the girls' dresses are sleeveless (which isn't usually a problem). So we decided that we would try an inside picture. They turned out cute! Some of them are bloopers, but they are still fun to look at. Anyway, I ordered my cards Tuesday and got them in the mail Friday. I couldn't believe how fast! So, they will be sent out as soon as I have time to sit down and address them all. In the mean time her is a slide show of all the pictures taken that day. Can you guess which one I picked?

Girls gotta start young!

2008-11-22T15:17:00.000-05:00

Audrey has her momma's genes when it comes to shopping. She is already a wonderful little shopper! She has decided that she likes to practice at home. She found the kids shopping cart and now likes to push it around the house. It won't be long before she lets go and takes off walking.

Soccer Season Finale

2008-11-22T15:12:00.000-05:00

Gracie had her last soccer game last weekend. She did really well. We had a near goal, but didn't quite make it. She had a great time and wants to play again next season. She also received another trophy for her room.

Halloween

2008-11-03T22:22:00.000-05:00

Halloween was a big deal in my house. We have had decorations up for a month that have been added to and added to and now are finally down! Only to make way for Thanksgiving decorations that will soon be adorning every wall in my house as my budding Picasso's make artwork. The anticipation was killing them Friday, because Gracie unfortunately had to go to school. She did have a "fall festival party", but she wasn't allowed to wear her costume. When she got home we had a scavenger hunt, picked up David, got changed and went door to door to ask people for candy.

Whoever in there right mind thought up this tradition? I mean, when I was a kid it sounded like a wonderful idea, but I am not a kid anymore. I am a mom. A mom of three kids, who when they have sugar coursing through their veins, they can not be held responsible for what they do. This morning for example;

9:00 am Mason asked," I ate my breakfast. Can I have a lollipop?" I said,"NO it is too early"
9:05 am Mason asked," I ate my breakfast. Can I have a lollipop?" I said,"NO it is still too early"
9:10 am Mason asked," I ate my breakfast. Can I have a lollipop?" I said,"NO, no lollipop!"
9:15 am Mason asked," I ate my breakfast. Can I have a lollipop?" I said,"One, that's it! One lollipop! NO MORE CANDY TODAY!"

There is only so much 1 person can handle. :) Truth be told he probably asked more times than that. After said incident I hid the candy. Gracie still managed to find it and start the, "He got a lollipop can I have a lollipop!" This is why I have come to the conclusion that it either was a man or a child that came up with the idea of Halloween. No woman would ever curse mothers all over the US with this wonderful holiday. I now have enough candy in my house to last until next Halloween.

However, the kids were very cute in their costumes! They were just as adorable in their matching shirts that we made. Also, see the cute pictures of Audrey's newest trick. I put all the pictures in a new slide show.

Hope everyone else doesn't have to deal with the sugary aftermath!

End of October Miscellaneous

2008-10-31T14:28:00.000-04:00

Ok. This is my end of the month post. I am trying to post everything that I have forgotten.

Gracie' soccer picture finally came in last week....I know what you are thinking...last week? I know I have been busy getting ready for Halloween.

Gracie got Honor Roll this grading period. She received all A's and 1 B(89%)...they seriously could have given her straight A's but don't get me started.

We had 2 deer in the back yard last night! I didn't get a picture because they moved to fast. I will try to get a picture before the season is over. I called Mason to come see and this is a direct quote from the 4 year old. " I knew it was Fall. In Fall the leaves turn amazing colors, and the animals come out. Especially in the woodlands where we live." I looked at him as though he was speaking a foreign language. For those of you who have been privileged enough to hear Mason talk you know he has a hard time pronouncing some of his words. So, to hear him go on and on about the woodlands and the amazing colors was amazing in itself. Later he informed me that those were white tailed deer, and that they were girls because they didn't have antlers. He says he learned all of this from his Animal Genius game for his leapster (thank you Aunt C.J.) Who says video games are bad?

Audrey is too cute! She was standing holding on to things last week, but you had to help her up. I went to pick her up from her nap yesterday and she was standing in her bed. Today, she did it again and then pulled up on the coffee table. I predict she will be walking before the new year. She is after the record! Gracie walked at 14-15 months. Mason didn't walk until almost 16 months because Gracie brought him everything. Audrey on the other hand, let's just say the other 2 team up and run off without her. She doesn't like that. She is ready to run too.

We also, very deliquently, did our pumpkins last night. I found the neatest thing at walmart. They are like Mr. Potato Head pieces for the pumpkins. The kids can then decorate them their selves, and I have much less (no) mess to clean up. They are so cool. Here are the pictures. All you can hope for is atleast one normal picture in my house. The rest have to be silly faced.

The picture of Mason and I display Gracie's new found photographic talents!

Ok, last but not least! My friend Jaclyn tagged me to post my fourth picture from my fourth folder on my computer. So here it is.

We're Back!

2008-10-24T11:19:00.000-04:00

OK, after recuperating for a few days I am finally posting the pictures from our trip. We went to Vegas to surprise Mom for her birthday. We only stayed for the long weekend, because Gracie had school. We had a really great time! The kids were really excited about the airplane, and the entire trip!

We didn't do the typical tourist stuff. We just visited with Mom, CJ, and Grandma. Everyone was really excited and sad to come home. The kids were hoping there would be snow on the mountains, but there wasn't. Gracie is already planning our next trip. I told her to start saving her allowance.

I put all of the pictures in the slide show above.

Side note....Audrey had her 9 month checkup yesterday. She is really 9 1/2 months, but whose counting. She was 21.5 lbs and 29.5 inches long. She is going to be a big girl. She is crawling everywhere and pulling up on chairs and the coffee table. I ordered her a baby corral for her own safety because she is one quick little baby!

Blog overload!

2008-10-13T13:37:00.001-04:00

Ok....prepare for a blog overload. It has been awhile and I have a ton of pictures, so sit back and relax.

Ok...First things first....All pictures that I have from the last week of September until now are going in the slide show above. That way this won't take so long.

The last weekend of September my Dad and Trish came for a visit. We had a really nice time. Gracie won her soccer game that week. We still haven't got her soccer pictures back yet. Hopefully we will receive them soon.

Audrey has begun attempting to crawl, which we have almost perfected. She now figures with that milestone down she is going to start pulling up. Also, she has a new tooth (that makes 5 sharp little teeth.) Did I mention that out of the middle of no where the other day she said, "Go Get Dada!" Don't ask where it came from. Up to this point I have only got "Hey" and "Mama" and "Dada" and "mo nack" (translation...more snack). It wasn't a fluke, she has done it several times since then. There are also pictures of Audrey and the Giant Peach. I made the mistake of thinking I could have a peach for a snack this weekend. She took it before I could even have a bite and started gnawing on it. She was too cute! I eventually had to take it away from her because she is getting too good with her teeth and getting such big pieces she couldn't chew them.

Mason got a haircut yesterday. It looks very nice. He really had no desire to sit still for it, but oh well, he needed it cut. He has really been sweet with Audrey. He also has been doing his chores and helping around the house.

Gracie is doing really good with school and soccer. I have been a bad mom and forgot the camera the past couple weeks. They have been early games. Who wants to be at the soccer field at 8 am on a Saturday? Anyway, it is already almost time for report cards. Time flies!

The kids have really enjoyed playing out in the yard in the evenings lately. It has been nice a cool out. I say cool. It is in the 70's that is cool for us. I attempted to take a group picture of the kids yesterday. Let me emphasize...ATTEMPTED! I got them dressed cute, David cut the grass, I had them posed. It just wasn't going to happen. When one melts down it is like an avalanche. It is all down hill from there. I did not get 1 picture with them all looking at the camera a smiling with there eyes open. I took close to 75 shots. That is crazy. I will try again later in the week, but some of our attempt are on the slide show.

Well, I think we are caught up. If I think of anything else I will add it.

School Picture

2008-09-30T16:21:00.000-04:00

Ok Quick post. Have other stuff to put up but will do that this evening. This was too cute and thought I would post before I forget. Gracie got her school pictures today. You know the ones that you have to pay for before you see that are usually horrible. They are cute this year. Thought I would share.

Soccer Update...as promised

2008-09-22T13:40:00.000-04:00

OK. A couple days late, but not too bad. Here is Gracie's soccer update. She did really well at her game. Partly because her daddy gave her a vitamin water before the game which contains caffeine. I never give her caffeine. I think the most caffeine she has ever had has been in one sip of a coke. Anyway, with that said, she did super. She even almost scored a goal! In an extremely comical moment her and a boy from her team both stood there in front of the goal with the ball waiting for the other to kick it. Needless to say someone from the other team finally came and took it from them. No biggie! It is all a learning experience. I have no idea what the score was because I was busy taking pictures and trying to keep a certain 4 year old in line. The score doesn't matter Gracie had a great game!

Awww

2008-09-19T21:49:00.000-04:00

OK today was a typical busy day. Drop Gracie off at the bus stop, run home get things done, put the baby down for a nap, feed the kids, run errands, another nap, pick up Gracie, go over homework, cook dinner....you get the idea. In the midst of all the crazy busy things you sometimes over look the sweetest most precious things.

I layed Audrey down with the big kids and her bottle to watch TV while I cooked dinner. I came around the corner and this is what I found.

If that is not the cutest thing you have seen all day please email me, because I would find it hard to believe that you saw something cuter than this sweet baby girl. She was so adorable I had to take her picture, because unfortunately moments like these don't last all day.

Later, after cooking dinner, I came around the corner and saw this...

a completely different kind of cute. Rotten boy cute. He had to try on his Halloween costume. In case you couldn't tell....he will be....Spiderman!

And now...to make it fair I must mention sweet Gracie. Whom, I didn't get a picture of today, but promise will take pictures of her at her soccer game tomorrow. She is such a wonderful little girl. She helped me clean the playroom today after she came home from school.

Happy Birthday Mason!

2008-09-15T09:04:00.000-04:00

Today is Mason's fourth birthday! It is hard to believe. We had his little celebration yesterday because David had to go back to work, and Gracie had school today. He had a big time yesterday with all of his presents, decorations and cake. We are going to go do something fun today.

Gracie's first soccer game went well Saturday also! She won 5-2. She did a really good job! Especially since it was so hot outside. There game was at noon.

All in all in was a really good weekend! I hope the week turns out to be just as great!

We're Getting the Ball Rolling...

2008-09-08T20:59:00.000-04:00

We're getting the ball rolling, literally and figuratively. Gracie's soccer season has begun. She has had her first 2 practices and is having a blast. Her first game is Saturday the 13Th.

The rest of us are getting used to waking up at 6:45 am (if Audrey sleeps in) or 6:00 am (when she doesn't. The kids are enjoying the school year. Gracie is making friends, and doing a great job with her work!

Audrey's tooth count is now 4. The top 2 have come in, just not well enough to really be noticed yet.

Will update next week with big game and Birthday pics.

Back to School

2008-08-28T21:09:00.000-04:00

Apparently, I am way behind. I have pictures coming out my wazoo, and just realized it has almost been a month since I did a post. Hopefully, it will start to get a little better.

At the beginning of August we took a trip to visit family before school starts. The kids had a big time! They even got to bottle feed a calf at papa's house. Gracie is in second grade and loving it, Mason is in Preschool, and Audrey is loving her one on one time with mom.

It is hard to believe that Audrey is already 7 months old. It is even harder to believe that my 7 month old is in 12 month clothes. She is growing to fast. She is sitting up well by herself, rolling everywhere, and trying to crawl. We have perfected waving bye bye, MAMA, and DADA. Occasionally I get what I think is an Acie, for Gracie, but I might just be being hopeful.

Mason has a birthday coming up in a couple weeks. This year, after much deliberation, it is all about Spiderman. He has changed his mind more times than I can count. Race Cars, Jungle, Green, Spiderman, Batman, Toy Story...you name it. We finally settled on Spiderman. He is excited.

Gracie has her first spelling test tomorrow. Her teacher's name is Mrs. Johnson. She really likes her. Gracie is riding the bus to and from school, and making some really nice friends. She is glad she went back to school this year.

Well, I think you are all caught up. I will be better about posting more often.
Enjoy the pictures!

TEETH!

2008-07-29T15:52:00.001-04:00

OK....it is official Audrey has 2 teeth! They haven't come all the way in, but they are there. Here are some new pictures of Audrey, if you look carefully in some of them you can see her teeth! Ignore her orange nose. She had just eaten carrots, and they tend to stain. I didn't even realize it until I saw the pictures myself.

Little Fish

2008-07-20T21:38:00.000-04:00

Well, we have 29 days until school starts. School supplies have been purchased. Now we just have to get new clothes. Which they are all looking forward too. Mason also knows his birthday is coming soon, and reminds me over and over and over again. I hope I survive to see it in SEPTEMBER!

We have been enjoying our summer. Our neighbors have been nice enough to let us use their swimming pool. The kids have really loved it! Gracie can swim now and Mason will at least get in the water with his floaties on. That is a major improvement from " I'm not going in there...there's Sharks in that water!" Audrey loves the water! She kicks her little legs and grins! We bought her a little float so she can enjoy the pool and watch everyone else swim.

Audrey had her sixth month checkup the other day. She was 16 1/2 lbs and 27 3/4 inches long. She is in the 97% for height. I guess Gracie and I will be the short ones. The other two will be tall like their daddy. At least I have one my size.

MAMA

2008-07-09T21:36:00.000-04:00

OK I have had this for a week or more now and keep forgetting to post it.
I know I know....I should be more punctual about these things. By the time everyone goes to bed it takes all I have to stay awake!

Fourth of July

2008-07-09T20:45:00.000-04:00

We hope everyone had as wonderful of a 4Th as we did!

We all had a super time. David BBQ'd Ribs, Corn on the Cob, Hot dogs for the kids, etc. The kids played all day and could hardly wait for nightfall. David had bought an ungodly amount of fireworks this year. He definitely made this an awesome memory for the kids.

We had the big fireworks that go up in the air like at shows. Audrey fell asleep at 7:30 and was up at 8:15 as they shot the first firework. There would be pictures of all these wonderful fireworks, however I was holding a baby who didn't understand what all the noise was for. Needless to say, she wasn't going to let me put her down to take a picture.

Our neighbors came over with their baby and we had a nice little party.

We had so many fireworks that is was after 11 before we called it a night.

All in all it was a fourth that we won't soon forget!

Peek-A-Boo

2008-06-19T14:36:00.000-04:00

They are such great kids! I came in from taking the dog out and this is what I found. Too cute!

We found Mason a preschool yesterday. He will go in the mornings starting in August when Gracie starts Second Grade. I won't know what to do with just 1. Audrey is rolling everywhere. She finally slept through the night for 2 nights in a row. Then she decided she didn't like it anymore and woke me up twice last night. Oh well, atleast I got 2 nights sleep. There is always hope for more.

Funny little tidbit. I made the kids turkey sandwiches for lunch yesterday. Mason was only eating the insides. I asked him why. He said, " Gracie said they only eat bread in jail. I don't want to be in jail." Gracie had told him that people only eat bread and water in jail. So, after explaining that he could still eat his sandwich and not go to jail. He only ate the turkey. Hopefully, He will eat bread again before long. The things kids think.