The Thompson Crew

Trick or Treat

2011-11-12T14:12:00.000-08:00

I'm a little behind on the halloween post. We enjoyed a little trick or treating with the Waterers and then headed to the Walkers for a Halloween party. If you want to have a night filled with laughter, go to a party where middle aged folks are dressed up! Hysterical!

Date Night

2011-11-12T14:05:00.000-08:00

Chad and I escaped for a short while last Saturday night to go to and engagement party for Jordan Wright and Grant Gatlin. Its always nice to have some adult time. We didn't have anyone to take our pics together so we took a few with the boys! Emmett & Easton wanted us to take a few of them making silly faces.

13.1

2011-11-12T13:53:00.000-08:00

13.1 miles.Chad ran his first half-marathon this morning. His goal was to finish under 2 hours. He finished in 1hr. 58 min. and 04 seconds. I didn't think to snap a pic of the clock til a few seconds later. Some people are runners and some are not. I know people say anyone can but minds like mine dont tend to stay focused on one task for 2 hours! I am proud of my man but dont think i will be joining him! Go Chad!

Old Friends

2011-10-29T16:24:00.000-07:00

We have been in Oxford today at Camp Lake Stephens and had such a great time visiting with old friends. Billy came to play guitar and lead worship and Memorie and the kids came along. Life gets so busy and it has been too long since we have been able to catch up. Billy and Memorie were friends of ours in college before they were even dating. Billy played and sang in our wedding and we enjoyed so much the friendships we had with them at DSU. It has been about 4 years since we have seen them. Fast forward 10 years since college and life looks alot different for all of us. Billy and Memorie are in Flowood now and have Skye, Saige, & Sawyer. They are such beautiful kids and all the kids had a ball playing together today. So thankful today for old friends.

My Boys

2011-10-27T18:45:00.000-07:00

We had some casual pics taken recently. Can't believe how big my boys are. Wow. So blessed.

Calvary Fall Festival

2011-10-27T05:24:00.000-07:00

We had our annual fall festival last night but because of the renovations at the church it was moved from the gym to Mrs.Sadie Buchannan's farm. It was fabulous! The kids played games in the riding arena, rode horses, went on hayrides, had their faces painted, wagon rides....It was true fall festival fashion. Thanks to Mrs. Sadie for sharing her farm with us!

The Fairy Tale Day Parade

2011-10-27T05:11:00.000-07:00

Fairy Tale Day

2011-10-26T08:55:00.000-07:00

A Precious Nephew

2011-10-25T16:21:00.000-07:00

I have yet to formally announce that we are going to have us a new little nephew in February. We could not be more excited. I think we may know a thing or two about boys around here! Matt & Olivia found out they are going to be having a boy a few weeks back and having decided on the name "Madden Paul Thompson". We could not be more excited for them. The boys call him by name know and ask about him as if he is already here! I tried to steal a pic off Olivia's blog to show yall what a cute pregnant person she is but I couldn't get it to work. Oh Well. I'm sure you will be seeing lots of Madden pics in just a few months!

Molli "Mawdi"

2011-10-25T16:12:00.000-07:00

Emmett Jack has missed being with our sweet friend Molli Kate. Alicia(her mom) went back to work and we are both running in a million directions so they havn't gotten to play as much as they were used to this summer. Molli came and played for a little while the other day and they had a ball. They have both grown up so much in just a few months. It was precious hearing them talk. They were so excited to be together. We love our sweet friends!

Healthy Breakfast & Halloween Pregame

2011-10-25T15:56:00.000-07:00

If these little guys could chose, a honey bun would be there food of choice every morning! Every now and then we give in and allow them the guilty pleasure:). Zoned in on cartoons makes them taste better. I went out today with the intention of finding a fairy tale day costume of a wolf for Elijah which he needs for tomorrow. I came home with a bag full of costumes that were a dollar each at dirt cheap but no wolf. The boys had a ball dressing up this afternoon. Now I better get back to coming up with a wolf costume by in the morning. Will be posting lots of dress up pics later this week! Happy Fall!

Emmett Jack wants to know...

2011-10-23T09:47:00.000-07:00

ARE U READY

FOR SOME FOOTBALL??

A Full House

2011-10-19T06:42:00.000-07:00

We always love having lots of action around our house...which is pretty much constant. Tonight we had Mont, Knox, & Laurie with us which made for an even more action filled afternoon and night. Jake came by for awhile too so at one point we had 8 under 8! We played "paparazzi" which they thought was hysterical and loved! Lots of squealing and giggling! Love sweet friends. Laurie told me I was invited to her birthday which was at chuck e. cheese on February 19th. When I asked her what she wanted me to get her Easton said,"You could get her a barbie." She quickly replied.."No, I am allergic to barbies." Love conversations with 4 year olds!

Buffalo Park Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-18T15:56:00.000-07:00

Bitsy, Mae, & Easton

Bay, Easton, & Brooks

Sweet Friends 2 Beths & a Courtney:)

On Your Mark...Get Set...Go!

The whole crew

Easton had his first 4 year old field trip to the Pumpkin Patch at the Buffalo Park. After watching his brothers all these years he was soo proud to go on "his" field trip. Easton had such a good time with his buddies. My Eastie is getting big!

Maloney's

2011-10-16T20:20:00.000-07:00

4 year old huddle. An adult nearby heard Easton say, "Let's rip their heads off!"Hysterical.

Brotherly time on the pier

Miley Boys...

This just amazes me...so fun to watch!

Future quarterback like his Pepaw??

Me and my littleist man

Maloney Men

Bennett & Kara

Elijah doing what he does best

One of our favorites events this time of year is our picnic at the Maloney's. It is such a fun time to enjoy being with people we love. The boys had a ball....literally...everytime I turned around they were playing some sort of ball. These pics are actually from a few weeks ago(Thanks Julie Douglas! You're quite the photographer!). I wish I would have had my camera this weekend as it was eventful as well. Friday we went with the Waterers and Brashiers out to Rusty's parents farm. They actually all went ahead after school and I met them after work. Such precious folks. We have been blessed with great friends. The kids all played so well together and had plenty of room to run around! Lots of Hide and Seek and Football! Chad got up Saturday morning and ran 9 miles....I know...Ridiculous! He is training for his first half marathon in just a few weeks...I wish I was as disciplined as he is....And then lugged the three older boys to Oxford for the wonderful Rebel ballgame. Ha! Me and Emmett Jack did alot of nothing around here...which was nice and hung a little with Candace and Catherine. My parents came over after the game and were with us today at church. Busy...as usual...but good. Wishes for a good week to all!

My 1st Grader

2011-10-08T16:51:00.000-07:00

Everett's class and the other first grade class led chapel at tcps last week. I was glad I got to sneak in on my way to work to watch my little guy. He did a great job!

Pitching Debut

2011-10-08T16:38:00.000-07:00

I don't think there are words to describe the love(obsession) my sweet oldest son has for the game of baseball. I don't think you would even believe me if I told you some of the stories. He woke up this morning excited about his first "kid-pitch" baseball game. Our team, Tupelo Crush, played a double header in Amory today. When he stepped on the mound he looked like a natural and enjoyed every minute. So fun to watch him doing something he loves so much! Go #19!

Party People....

2011-10-01T20:54:00.000-07:00

Anna Cash blowing our her birthday candles

Loving Molli's hair!

My sweet boy

Getting bday sugar from sweet Joseph

Emmett Jack was determined to get in on this present!

Sweet Sisters

Ivy is TWO!

Mae is FIVE! Precious cake!

One of alot of ice creams!

Sweetest Cowboy I've seen

Yeehaw

Mae with her sweet friend

Found a few minutes to make Mae and Ivy a shirt

Emmett loves to slide!

Today we celebrated Chad's Dad's (aka PawPaw) Birthday. We enjoyed a great lunch in Hickory Flat with him and the fam today. We even put a candle in the apple cake. You know kids don't think it's anybody's birthday if there isnt a candle! I hate I left my camera in Tupelo but wanted to post some party pics from last weekend. We had 3 birthday parties and our church picnic last weekend so we have been some partying folks. Kids never seem to tire of cake and goodies.:) Elijah started the party weekend at Grahm's flad football party Friday. Saturday we had Anna Cash's 2nd Birthday , and Sunday we had Mae & Ivy's party, & the church picnic. Here are a few pics....

Wedding Day...Not mine

2011-10-01T19:51:00.000-07:00

I don't just love posting pics of myself but here is a pic of me and my man tonight. We headed to the wedding of some precious folks, Hannah Weatherly & Matthew Kimbrough. The wedding was incredible. We then headed to the Tupelo Country Club for the reception where we enjoyed some great times with friends and eating our food with no kids climbing on us or eating off our plate. It's the small things in life ya know.

Worship Kidstyle

2011-09-18T19:10:00.000-07:00

On Sunday nights we have started a kids program called Worship Kidstyle. We have paired the kids up with youth and they all seem to like it. It gives the youth some responsibility and you know the younger kids just love the youth! There is music, small group time, bible study time, & other fun activities incorporated. We do one mission project a month so the kids can have opportunities to serve and be the hands and feet of Christ. Some nights themes are incorporated and tonight was "favorite team night". Of course all my boys pulled out there Ole Miss jerseys but notice Chad's tee. It is his Delta State practice jersey tee. He said he wore it cause it was black and he was in mourning after Ole Miss' game against Vandy. Bless his heart. As you can see Emmett Jack and his little leading lady are still going strong. Beats everything I have seen. they hug and kiss and talk about each other quite a bit. Maggie happens to be a State girl, which Elijah says is a problem, but I thought her parents might enjoy these pics of her chasing a little man in an Ole Miss jersey:)

Look out Ladies!

2011-09-18T19:02:00.000-07:00

Ada Potato is 90!

2011-09-14T18:31:00.000-07:00

Mamaw and some of her great grandchildren

They find a way to play ball no matter where we go!

Easton & Allie loving the jumpy!

what a nut

Cousin Madeleine

In serious thought

Me and two of my precious younger cousins..Beautiful...I know...

Anna Margaret, Me, Hannah

Hannah & Ava (Cousin Leslie's little girl)

Sweet Lawrence Michael(cousin Michael's little fella)

My sweet grandmother turned 90 last week and we celebrated at her childhood home in Meridian this Saturday with all five of her children and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. My grandmother's name is Ada Frances Halford and I have always loved her name but she has always hated the name "Ada" because she said when she was little people would call her "Ada Potato." Since she doesn't have a computer or "surf" the net I figured I could share:) We had a great time celebrating our sweet Mamaw.

5x7 Folded Card

2011-09-13T14:53:00.001-07:00

Happy Sign Blue Birthday Card

Shutterfly cards for Mother's Day, Valentines Day, Birthdays & more.

View the entire collection of cards.

Poor baby

2011-09-07T20:01:00.000-07:00

Running my mouth...right after childbirth....Imagine that!

Elijah meeting Easton for the first time

Immeadiately after birth

Check out that hair!

Wow..this just doesn't seem that long ago. July 5,2007

FOUR YEAR OLD

I am pretty upset with myself at the moment. I try my very best to make sure all of my four little fellas each get plenty of individual attention. To be honest I love having four because I think they learn early that the world does not revolve around them. However, I want them each to feel important, loved, special, purposeful. I try to have individual time with each of them and make sure we do a few extra special things for each of them each year. Birthdays being one. I think this is important in a big family that is blowing and going all the time. Well..guess what?? One of my sweet boys did not even get a mention of his birthday on my blog this year. Sadness. I was just reading back through some things throughout the last year when I went looking for it...never to be found. I could give plenty of excuses...summer bday...no good camera...out of town...but none suffice. So as embarrassing as this is...Here is my sweet Easton's 4th Birthday blog post. We actually celebrate July 4th in Moss Point each year. So depending on how it falls we usually wake up in Moss Point on his birthday. This year we were traveling home on his birthday so we had an oreo cake and presents midmorning before we left. Nana, Pepaw, and Uncle Bill were still there so they helped us celebrate. When I told Easton it was time to do his cake he said "But my friends aren't here yet". Bless his heart. He was expecting his Tupelo friends to walk through the door. We have planned this fabulous baseball party with three high school players doing a little "clinic" and a concession stand with "tickets" but guess what?? It has not been brought to fruition. Will it?? I really couldn't tell u. Maybe we will save the great idea for next year. We also celebrated him at Meme and Pawpaw's on our annual birthday dinner and he was thrilled to go pick out his OWN cleats from Meme and Uncle Matt brought him back a REAL baseball jersey from Nicaragua that he has worn slap out! Sweet Easton, You add so much laughter and fun to our family. I am so thankful for you. Happy 4th little man.

Preschool Rocks!

2011-09-07T18:04:00.000-07:00

Easton and Emmett Jack officially started preschool today. They both were excited and didn't blink an eye when I left! So big.

All In a Day

2011-09-01T19:00:00.000-07:00

Before

During

After
Jamie is always so sweet and patient with our crew when we come in! I can only imagine
what some folks think when they see our bunch coming!

Elijah standing at his table serving cookies

Sharing a cookie "pop" with Easton

Our best bud Grace(3rd year in the same class for these two!)

Easton & Daddy having way too much fun!

Taking a break with Emmett Jack

We started the day with a little housework and then off to get Easton a haircut and a cookie party in Elijah's class. Fill in the gaps with some playing, supper, and a little homework and that's generally what our days are like around here! Trying to enjoy all the little things with alot of chaos going on around us!

A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned

2011-08-31T20:27:00.000-07:00

Anybody who knows me too well knows I was raised to gravitate toward a bargain. I was diligently trained in this way. Well, today after Easton's speech we headed to make a Sam's run and decided to stop by TJMAX to look for a few birthday gifts. We tend to have these weekly(birthday parties). Anyway, I got a steal I have to share. So...Take a guess...How much you think?? For a stylish boxy shaped hot pink striped shirt??

Well.....

Were you close? 70 stinkin cents for a cute top! I can't even get a candy bar for that much these days! I decided to throw it on tonight to wear to church and had a little chuckle anytime someone complimented it.

You can kinda see it in this pic but it was a surprisingly cute fit. Yeah for bargains!

Meet The Teachers

2011-08-31T12:43:00.000-07:00

Easton and "Miss" Francille

Emmett and "Miss" Jennifer

"Miss Polly"

Miss Jennifer's little girl Lauren and Miss Polly:)

Easton and his good bud Brooks

My dear friend Courtney and her fam. Mae and Easton are in same class and Em Jack and Ivy are in the same class. She is also one of my beach traveling buddies and bible study friends!

Sweet Bitsy

How stinkin adorable are these little ladies in Easton's class! Here is sweet Mae.

Last night we had Easton's open House at Calvary. We were supposed to go Monday night for Emmett Jack's but due to the fact that Easton woke up throwing up Monday morning we kept everyone home and knew Em jack would be able to meet his teacher too at the Tuesday Open House. Calvary does there Open House nights at seperate times for various ages. Anyway, Of Course with Chad working at Calvary it is not all that New and Exciting since he has been there more than he has been at home since we moved here! BUT I made sure the older boys knew that this night was about Easton and we were going to have fun getting excited with and for him! Easton will be in Mrs. Francille's class on Mondays-Wed.-Fridays and Emmett Jack will be in Mrs.Jennifer's class on Monday-Wednesdays. Emmett also met "Miss Polly" who he wasn't too sure about! :) We are looking forward to a great year. It really feels like things are shifting in our household. Everyone seems to have grown by leaps and bounds these last few months. So off we go next week to start our 2 year old and 4 year old journeys for the year!

Lunch Date

2011-08-30T11:55:00.000-07:00

The little boys and I decided to go have lunch with the older boys at school today. It is so precious to me how excited they get to see each other and to see me. I know those days are numbered:). So we ran through McDonalds and got to lunch at 10:45. I know! So early. Anyway, we had a great time visiting with Elijah and Everett.

Can you name that Spiderman?

2011-08-30T06:14:00.000-07:00

Thompson Farms

2011-08-29T11:14:00.000-07:00

Faces I Love

2011-08-29T10:31:00.000-07:00

It's a new day!

2011-08-25T10:24:00.000-07:00

The camera has arrived. Am weighing my options on some good editing software and I am diving in! Any suggestions are welcomed!

Happy Girl

2011-08-23T06:22:00.000-07:00

I am more than thrilled that tomorrow a package is set to arrive at my front door. After two years without a "good" camera I finally decided I had already missed too much time with the boys growing up and I miss taking pictures. So my stash was finally complete last week and I am so excited! I'm sure I will wear the boys out quickly but I truly love photography and I have to say I have some pretty cute subjects. So new camera..means return to a more consistent blogging?....well maybe...definitely at first:) Nothing is a guarantee with four little guys! Anyway, I wanted to share a few quotes that I have read lately that really spoke to me...so here you go...

"We can trust in the desires of our heart when He is where we find our delight." Tim Keller

"Any desire we chase that does not anchor itself in scripture is like chasing sandcastles." Tim Keller

"Being spiritual is not about changing your behavior, but rather transforming who you are." Tim Keller

"Either sin will keep you from the Word or the Word will keep you from sin."

Have a HAPPY day!

Sweet Faces of Thursday

2011-08-11T17:49:00.000-07:00

This little sassafras has captured my heart....

Like Mother Like Son

I spend each Thursday with a room full of 2 year olds. There is a lot of action but its alot of fun to view life through the eyes of a two year old. One of them said to me today,"My momma let me live in her belly and it was fun in there." Another one dropped his pants and peed on the playground. Love it. Here are some of their sweet faces.

Laughter...

2011-08-10T18:35:00.000-07:00

Is Good Medicine.

Day Two

2011-08-10T06:32:00.000-07:00

Off they go!

First Day is In the Books

2011-08-09T20:53:00.000-07:00

Elijah and Everett had a fabulous first day aside from Elijah having a girl sit next to him at lunch that ate tunafish! ha! After school we went to Baskin Robbins for a little ice cream and we then got a few things done at home and headed to swim. The boys have done the Tupelo Shockwave summer session and it has really been good for them. We will finish out the summer session the 1st of September.Chad said he never in his wildest imaginations thought he would be saying, "Boys, get up and go put your speedos on." ha. Never say never. So here are a few pictures to capture our full first day of school. Enjoy!

It's School Time!

2011-08-09T11:50:00.000-07:00

Excitement!

Grrr face aka "game face"

Silly face

My sweet Elijah

Elijah and his teacher, Mrs. Black

My sweet Everett

Everett and his buddy Lauren

Everett and his teacher, Ms. Dickerson

The older boys woke up this morning to the start of their 1st and 2nd grade years. We could not be more excited about their teachers and classes. We are so thankful and feel truly blessed. Our prayer is that Elijah and Everett will grow spiritually as well as academically this year. Anxious to go pick them up but here are some pics of how I left them.

So Long Summer.....

2011-08-09T10:48:00.000-07:00

It's Been Fun!

Fish Tales

2011-07-28T16:19:00.000-07:00

I know some folks like to exaggerate how big the fish they catch are. I guess we will trust Uncle Barry from now own. Here are some pictures on a recent fishing trip he went on with some buddies. My boys are so proud of their Uncle Barry's fish!

Hannah Kate Fall 2011 Trunk Show TONIGHT 5-8 or SAT.10-3 My House

2011-07-21T12:52:00.000-07:00

To view the fall catalog
go to hannahkateonline.com
THIS FALL LINE IS ADORABLE! WOULD LOVE TO INVITE ANYONE INTERESTED TO MY HOME DURING EITHER OF THESE TIMES. IF YOU ARE OUT OF TOWN AND INTERESTED IN ORDERING JUST SHOOT ME A MESSAGE.IF ANYONE IS NOT ALL THAT INTERESTED IN MAKING A CLOTHES PURCHASE BUT WANTS TO COME BY AND CHAT I LOVE TO TALK:).
THOMPSON HOME
1430 ORLEANS PLACE
TUPELO

We're Having A Baby.......niece or nephew

2011-07-17T20:33:00.000-07:00

Elijah and Everett when they were in Matt and Olivia's wedding

Matt and his buddy Ev

Olivia with Easton when he was a little dude

Scared you didn't I! Ha. Not a chance! We are so thrilled that Uncle Matt and Olivia are having their first baby that is due February 10th. Everett is praying for a girl and the rest of the clan seems to think it will be a boy. We will be thrilled either way and are praying alongside of them for a precious healthy baby. This will be an exciting time for the Thompson bunch. Matt and Ibby have been so fabulous to our boys and with our boys. We look forward to being able to love on theirs! And Olivia, I know your reading...it is time to start a blog. I need official updates!

The promised picture

2011-07-17T20:09:00.000-07:00

The three of us rarely take a picture together these days with living in different places and kids everywhere but we shot a quick one while we were at Five Guys during our annual Hassell 4th. If any of you were wondering my dad does have a slight interest in patterns. This is evident in our names. BArry, BEth, BIll, and BOss(the dog). Notice not only the B's but the A,E,I,O..I know I know. Don't you love crazy folks. Keeps life fun.
An update on the brothers..Bill is in Banner Elk, North Carolina as assistant pro at a golf course there. Barry became a partner at the law firm he has been at for the last seven(?) years this year. He and Camille are in Madison with sweet Crew and Knox. Chad and I are both truly blessed with great brothers!

Our AllStar

2011-07-17T19:57:00.000-07:00

Elijah is quite the passionate ball player.We are pretty eat up with it in this house this time of year. So much so the three older ones went to church tonight in full fledge uniforms. People kept asking if they won their games. There were no games today. Other than those in the yard. We just don't play baseball halfway at this house. These dudes go all out. It is pretty hysterical. Anyway, Elijah made the 8 year old Tupelo All Stars Which was a fun experience for all of us. Chad coached the team and I was so proud of him and Elijah. We played a few tournaments prior to the State tournament. We spent last weekend(before Destin) in Louisville for the State tournament and came away with 2 wins and 2 losses. The boys had a ball. Meme and Pawpaw got to come to the Friday games so we enjoyed some time with them too. If you didn't know, adults can get a little excited at these little league games. Not us of course. Other than the three heart attacks during one game. Ha. It was really alot of fun. We are starting to face some of the decisions we knew were gonna come with our boys. Elijah and Everett both have been asked to play tournament ball. While this works for some people we decided before it ever came up we would do rec ball and allstars if they made it until they are a good bit older. We love baseball here but we always want our boys to remember it is a small part of the bigger picture. And to have balance. And not to burn out. So for now, baseball is in the books for this year. Except for the yard and tv of course.

San Destin

2011-07-17T19:39:00.000-07:00

Elijah with dolphin face painting

Emmett Jack and Easton enjoying the "baby pool"

At the Welcome Reception Everett and Elijah both got to hold parrots. They loved the parrots!

Easton(A tiger) at the kids party with his Build A Bear baseball player


Me and my fellas in the Village at Baytowne Wharf

While Chad spent last week at Mississippi College for Super Summer(an intense student leadership camp) the boys and I made a trip to Vicksburg and then to Moss Point for a night and then on to San Destin. We tagged along with my parents for the MS Bar Convention. The boys had a blast. I definitely have some water lovers! They loved the beach. Loved the pool. And I'm certain the most entertaining site for fellow guests was me pulling a trailer behind a bike with the two little two and Elijah and Everett each riding their own bikes. It was a pretty short ride. Anyway, the highlight for the boys was getting to go to the Kids Party the convention host where each child gets to make their own Build-a-Bear, have their face painted, make crafts, get balloons, and anything else a kid would love. My dad had a pretty good trip as he won the Bar golf tourament and won a door prize. Thanks Nana and Pepaw.

Sister

2011-07-06T20:28:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite honors other than "Wife" and "Mother" is to be a sister. I have been enormously blessed with two wonderful brothers who I couldn't be more proud to call mine. We had a great time celebrating the 4th with the Hassell family and was thrilled Bill got to fly in from Charlotte since he missed last year. Please ignore the hair but wanted to show off my little brother. Barry's picture is coming when my computer starts cooperating! Barry and Bill, Thanks for allowing me the priviledge of being called "sister". Love u.

Oh my word

2011-07-01T07:39:00.000-07:00

Knox

This picture just makes me smile. Oh my word. Doesn't get any cuter than this little dude. We are headed to Moss Point to the annual "Hassell 4th" today when I get off work. We are all super excited but will miss our newest little cousin there this year(and his momma!). Happy 4th!

No method to the madness

2011-06-14T20:50:00.000-07:00

Buffalo Park

Emmett Jack at the Maloney's

East and Elijah

Love this pic! Enjoying a popsicle at Maloneys

Ride at Buffalo Park

We have definitely hit the ground running this summer.....as usual! I had trouble getting my pics together so these are a sporadic few! In the last few weeks Chad has been to Ecuador for 8 days, the boys and I went to Memphis to Redbirds game and the Pink Palace where Elijah got to see REAL dinosaur bones with Nana and Pepaw, the boys have stayed with Meme several nights as she has been a great help while Chad was gone and as I enjoyed a much needed girls only beach trip! When Chad got back from Equador some precious friends, the Maloney's took the boys swimming and to their house/lake so that Chad and I could enjoy a date night. Much appreciated! Elijah, Everett, and Easton enjoyed the end of last week in Kosciusko with Kelly and Cayley and Cadence which was a ball for them! The older boys have started swim team which they love and the little guys are doing swim lessons this week which has been a traumatic experience to say the least. Elijah made the 8 year old all stars in baseball and Everett hit his first home run tonight! The boys also went on a trail ride with Pepaw when he was in town and toured the buffalo park which they loved! Chad's next camp starts this Sunday so next week he will be gone. I am trying amidst all this craziness to hold onto a little structure and I have to say the boys have been fabulous this summer. As crazy as all this is I wouldn't change a thing! We have been so blessed and we are so grateful! Hope to blog a little more and give more order and details but wanted to jot all this down before I forget any of it!

Hello Summer!

2011-05-23T13:44:00.000-07:00

I don't think I have ever had a week like last week. I have decided that for a mom of many kids May is busier than December. We had three end of the year parties, 2 awards days, baseball games, I worked, and hosted a baby shower Tuesday night. I am thankful I held up becasue there were a few moments where I considered skipping town! Here are a few pictures from Everett's awards day. I could not be more thankful and more proud of the year he has had. He won a trophy for reading the most pages in his reading group(1,024 in just a week long contest). There were three groups and she let the three winners pick their trophies. When he went to pick he picked the smallest one. That moment captured Everett to me because he sincerely wants others to be happy and have the best. I am so very proud of our Everett.

It's Here...Baseball Fever

2011-05-23T13:22:00.000-07:00

Everett woke up this morning and the first thing he said was "Did the Red Sox or Cubs win last night?" I said "Well I don't know Ev." He says, "Well I need the newspaper so I can see". Oh my word. I think we have the fever. At six. Yikes.

Elijah on pitchers mound

Elijah playing catcher..his favorite

Everett is holding his own playing up this year! Go Ev!

Carter "Knox" Hassell

2011-04-25T08:09:00.000-07:00

It has taken me two weeks to sit down and post about our newest baby cousin, Knox. Chad, Emmett Jack, and I were able to get up bright and early to trek to Jackson to meet Knox on his birthday! Thanks Meme, The Waterers, and the Eldridges for helping with the older boys so we could enjoy this day. It takes a village.
Here is KNOX...Congrats Barry, Camille, and Crew. He is precious.

Up Up & Away Festival

2011-04-11T15:51:00.000-07:00

After the party morning with Em Jack, baseball practice at 1:30 with two older boys, we headed to Tcps' up up and away hot air balloon festival to work the gate. We took turns working the gate while the other entertained the kids. We had a great time! And we ALL slept really good Saturday night!

Projects Projects

2011-04-10T19:19:00.000-07:00

I am a little late on this post but wanted to share the Elijah and Everett's learning fair projects they did this year. The pre-first students always do a compilation of the seven days of creation and put together the many projects they do throughout the year. 1st graders choose a place of interest and do a trifold display about the destination of choice. Elijah being the animal lover that he is chose the San Diego Zoo. After days(weeks) of searching book stores, writing the zoo requesting info, and still coming up empty handed a sweet friend who had been to the zoo offered some brochures and pictures!(Thanks Terri Stewart..U definitely saved us on this one!) We had a good time putting all the projects together.

More Birthday Fun

2011-04-10T19:06:00.000-07:00

Emmett Jack telling on Elijah:)

sweet baby heidi

Anna Cash cutie cutie!

Liz enjoying the cupcakes!

John Nicholas digging in!

Reaction to everybody singing to him..precious

Ivy Kate and Rebecca sweet buds

We celebrated with family and friends on Saturday Emmett Jack's 2nd birthday with "Pancakes and Pajamas". The kids had a ball. All our friends came in pjs and we served pancakes and brunch type food. Emmett Jack was absolutely precious while we sang to him. He grinned and laughed and clapped for himself. It was hysterial. My baby boy is getting big. We had a great day celebrating. A big thanks to my mother in law for the sausage muffins and helping Chad cook the pancakes and my mom for the fruit, last minute run to grab everett some pjs when we realized he didn't have any that fit, and picking up balloons. It was definitely a group effort! The kids had fun playing on mattresses, pillows, sleeping bags, and several other fun little things in the gym. Overall it was a great time celebrating our little buddy. Happy 2nd Emmett Jack!

Pancakes & Pajamas

2011-04-10T18:08:00.000-07:00

Look who's TWO!

2011-04-01T07:35:00.000-07:00

Where has time gone? My littleist fella is two. Makes me contemplate how precious each day truly is! We had a fun day celebrating him yesterday on his actual birthday and will celebrate with family and friends next weekend!

We sang him happy birthday a hundred times because he gets so excited and claps and them says "gin"(again)

When we told him to blow out his candle he got a little nervous

But then he accidentally did it and he was proud!

Birthday boy gets 2 cupcakes!

my valentine

2011-03-29T07:14:00.000-07:00

Poor elijah is just not ready for all this boy/girl stuff. It is not even close to being on his radar so their valentine activity at school spun him into depression! He had to dress up in his dads clothes and escort a girl classmate who was dressed in her mom's clothes. It was precious but bless his heart. When it was his turn he pulled the coat over his face and then looked at the floor the rest of the time. I hate that I didn't get better pictures but to be honest I was worried for him! Guess he can always be my valentine.:)

How a 4th child eats supper

2011-03-29T06:54:00.000-07:00

bless his heart.

Trust and Obey

2011-03-25T07:59:00.000-07:00

That's what i want from my kids. To just trust that I have their best interest at heart and do what i say. I had to make a run in bookstore yesterday in search of a book on the San Diego Zoo for Elijahs latest school project. I had all four kids so I clearly laid out the guidelines in the car and told them if they were cooperative and did not "touch" anything they would recieve a snack when we ran in walmart. We made it through Barnes and Noble just fine but with no book. So loaded in the car and clearly set the rules before them again. Well Books A Million was without a book as well but I turn around and Elijah and Easton are both walking toward me with a dinosaur in hand. I told them gently that they chose to disobey so they would not be recieveing a snack at walmart. I wanted them to obey. I was rooting for them.Quite honestly it would be much easier for me to spend 50 cents on a candy bar than to have to deal with a meltdown. But in order to teach them I have to stick to my guns. To teach them that when rules are set before them and they choose to disobey that there is a consequence. In the van I told them I truly wanted to get them a snack, that it hurt me to not give them what they wanted but that they made the choice to disobey. As I was speaking this to them I felt the Lord speaking this to me. Just trust and obey me.Trust that I see what you don't and I have your best interest at heart. You are just like your children. There is so much I want to give you. It hurts me not to give it to you. Please just do as I say. Just trust and obey.

Few For Fun

2011-02-21T08:19:00.000-08:00

friend Caleb

Jake

Sweet bro & sis Mari Claire & Jake

Ahoy Matey! A Pirate Party

2011-02-21T07:32:00.000-08:00

This is Drew. He definitely needs to be a tv kid! He and Ev were big buds in three year old class but we don't get to see him often now. He looked up at me while he was eating his cupcake and said(while pointing to Emmett Jack) "Is he your son?" I said "Yes he is". He said,"Did he just come out?" hysterical.

The reason for all the blogging is my sweet friend Shelia loaned me her camera Saturday to take pictures at the shower. I got a little excited with it and took it everywhere we went. Oh how life would be different with a camera like that! It was so much fun!

Win, Lose, or Draw

2011-02-20T21:25:00.000-08:00

How many more years do I have to wait??

Our basketball loving Everett

Easton asked me to take a picture of his "silly face"

Go Elijah Go!

Momma keeps telling me to get down and quit climbing and I just think it is soo funny!

When Meme asked Everett last Saturday if he won his basketball game he said enthusiatically,"Yes Meme, We won 8 to 8. Sweet boy.

Oh Boys Part 2!

2011-02-20T20:42:00.000-08:00

mommy to be

hostesses Leslie & Elizabeth

Amanda & sis Alicia(hostess)

momma of momma to be

lynn, brandy, & joy

Hannah(hostess) & Rachel

Where is your....???

2011-02-20T19:07:00.000-08:00

nose?

eyes?

hair?

tongue?

mouth?

Oh Boys!

2011-02-19T17:38:00.000-08:00

Today I had the priviledge of hosting a baby shower for a precious friend who is expecting twin boys, Cruze and Lathan! I had a great time getting ready for the shower with lots of theraputic craft time! Chad took the boys to Hickory Flat yesterday afternoon so I had the night to get everything ready. The shower went great. Congrats to Rachel and Matt and Thanks to all the hostesses for their help!

He's Eight!

2011-02-07T14:27:00.000-08:00

It is hard to believe I am the mother of an eight year old! My first little fella turned eight last Thursday and we had a great day celebrating his eight years! He requested a cookie cake with a wolf and when I ordered it the lady working said no problem! Well an hour before I am due to pick it up to take to his class the actual woman that does the decorating calls and says "I have never done a wolf is there something else I can do?" Mind you I had already been to two places before the woman at Great American Cookie said No prob! So I said Just give it your best shot and we will call it a wolf. That was his one request and I wanted a happy birthday boy! SO I was very impressed and appreciative when I picked it up! I thought it was a pretty impressive wolf for someone who had never done one! Needless to say he was very excited and didn't even notice his name was mispelled! :) After school just me and him( his request) went to build a bear. He has been wanting a dog like ev did for his birthday so HUNCH joined our family. I love the names they come up with! He is also a rolling skating dog. Elijah was a happy eight year old! I could not be more proud of my oldest guy and am so thankful God saw fit to bless us with this passionate rascal!

It was only a matter of time..

2011-02-01T12:35:00.000-08:00

..with four boys until we ended up in the tupelo ER. That event took place a few wednesdays back when Elijah was playing in the gym at church. Something about a scooter and an older fella pulling him and he comes to Chad holding his chin with blood seeping through. I am thankful it wasn't worse. We went to Medserv, an after hours type clinic, hoping they could glue it but they said it was too deep and sent us to the ER. Elijah was a pretty unhappy little dude at this point because he heard the nurse say stitches. Argh. So we trekked to the ER and I have to say I was very impressed with how fast we were in and out of there. The dr. came in said lets try the glue and Elijah was ecstatic and VERY cooperative. Anything to escape the fate of stitches. So our little guy made it okay. The dr. put him on antibiotics and told me he needed it four times a day. I knew with school that would be hard so I was gonna give it three and add a day BUT elijah was listening and his teacher called me at lunch the next day saying he was very worried about his medicine and that the dr. said if he did not take it four times a day he could get an infection! When you think they are paying attention, they aren't and when you think they aren't, they are!

My Memaw

2011-02-01T12:26:00.000-08:00

FUZZY FEET DAY

2011-02-01T12:23:00.000-08:00

I love themed days! Always have. Elijah's class recently had fuzzy feet day where they wore slippers and drank hot chocolate. Elijah has his monkey feet on. Such fun.

Free Time

2011-01-31T08:09:00.000-08:00

Since we always have so much free time(sarcasm) we decided to let the older boys play in a church basketball league. So our Saturdays are spent at the various gyms in Tupelo. The older boys have had a lot of fun with it but not so much fun for the little two. They are to the age where they want to be in on the action and not just bystanders. So basically I am in a wrestling match while Elijah and Everett are playing ball. And since I still had so much free time left I decided to start sewing gifts again. Honestly I love to do it and it's good on the budget! So here is the outfit I made for our music ministers wife who is expecting their third little girl, Belle. I will be more than happy to make gifts for your family and friends so just shoot me an email if I can help. This outfit is $25. The last pic is the face I have to look at while telling him he is not big enough to join the brothers! Pitiful.

Married to a celebrity

2011-01-22T09:07:00.000-08:00

Who would've thunk it! Chad was asked to be in a "celebrity livestock show" last night. I'm not sure of how we made it into the celebrity status but it was actually a lot of fun! We were with the likes of Sen.Alan Nunnelee, Sheriff Jim Johnson, and some other local folks. And guess who won?? My handsome cowboy! :) The boys could not have been more excited! Growing up on a farm in small town Mississippi might have given him a slight advantage! :)

The Birthday Boy

2011-01-22T08:25:00.000-08:00

Caleb, Jake, Ev, & Knox with their bear(dog) selections!

handsome birthday boy at school

cupcakes with the class

Knox stuffing his bear

cookies after all the bear making

Jake with his Star Wars bear

1.11.11

2011-01-18T18:58:00.000-08:00

On 1.11.11 our sweet little Everett turned six! Wow those six years flew! He has always been such a happy natured fellow and we are so thankful for his sweet encouraging spirit. Snow was his big gift this year :) but since we had planned to take cupcakes to his class on his birthday and they canceled school I decided to add cupcakes to our dinner with two families that were coming to dinner the night before his birthday. Then he got to take them the day he went back to school as well! So he got plenty of celebrating in! Saturday we took him and his three buds Knox, Caleb, and Jake and went to Build a Bear. Everett was so proud to have a special time with his friends. After Build a Bear we went to Great American Cookie and then delivered all the guys safely back home!

A Little More Christmas

2011-01-10T08:49:00.000-08:00

Concordia Hunting Club

2011-01-04T20:08:00.000-08:00

Alicia, Me, & Catherine

Jeremy, Chad, & Jon

Jeremy & Catherine

Alicia & Jon


Me & Chad

New Years Eve we were blessed to spend with three other couples at a Hunting lodge in the Delta. We are so grateful for our friendships with these couples and was excited to spend some time away without kids interrupting! :) Micah & Courtney had to leave a little early so I hate I didn't get their pics but this is a few.We had a great time! Thanks Catherine and Jeremy!

Toy Story Lego Set

2010-12-30T19:42:00.000-08:00

When the older boys were asked by anyone what they wanted for Christmas their immeadiate response was " Toy Story Lego Set". Nana came through for them and they were more than thrilled. I have to admit I am becoming a fan. It is a great way to spend time with the boys doing something they get excited about and I was pleasantly surprised with the quality. When you sit plan to stay awhile!~ Sweet Aunt Camille helped Everett with his while I worked with Elijah. Here is Easton with Elijah's completed Toy Story Lego Train.

One of the boys most favorite seats. Pepaw's shoulders.

A Holly Jolly Christmas

2010-12-30T19:32:00.000-08:00

What a blessed Christmas! I think this is the first time I have sat down since the holiday whirlwind began! We celebrated with MeMe and PawPaw in Hickory Flat before Christmas. The boys were surprised with a golf cart to enjoy while they are there. They were also very excited about new bikes and some other goodies from the fam. Christmas Eve was spent at church where our family lit the advent candle and I was so proud of my little guys. I wondered why our pastor did not ask a family with two older well behaved kids but I have to say with four under 7 we pulled it off well! Elijah and Everett helped us quote(read) Luke 2. I was very proud of them. We then celebrated with some families we have grown to love, the Matthews, the Stones, and the Smiths. They invited us in on there yearly tradition and they all have older (high school/college/med school) age kids so we definitely bring some action which included a tumble down a flight of stairs by Emmett Jack. We were in the presence of our beloved pediatrician so he calmly watched Em Jack to make sure he was fine. Thankfully, they were carpeted stairs and he tumbled on his side! Christmas morning we were excited Chad's aunt Jinnie and Uncle Jimmy came to join in on the boys excitement. PawPaw also came but Meme woke up with stomach bug so we were sad she couldn't make it. The boys were thrilled with their loot from Santa but were especially delighted with the "white christmas". Elijah told us all he wanted for Christmas was snow and we nicely told him "Don't get your hopes up little buddy!". Well...he got his wish and quite honestly we were shocked! Christmas Day we headed to Vicksburg and had a great time there! We were excited Uncle Bill got to come home and thrilled to see Crew. The boys got to go home with Crew and spend the night which they have not stopped talking about it. Overall, it was a fabulous Christmas and we are so grateful for all the blessings of our family and friends. Chad and I are headed with three couples to a hunting lodge in the delta tomorrow night to ring in the new year! Praying for a great 2011! Some random photos..will be adding more when i get them organized!

Emmett Jack getting ready to kick the ball with Uncle Bill

Random group photo

Emmett Jack on Easton's new bike that he won't let Easton ride.

Loving on baby Brooks..Love me some babies!

The whole crew at my cousin Jenny's in Brandon

Everett, my sweet Joseph

2010-12-17T09:47:00.000-08:00

Everett's class did a fabulous job acting out Luke 2 this morning. It amazes what kids are capable of. They memorized, acted out, and sang "The Christmas Story". I was so proud of my Joseph.
On a side note:Chad is in Virgin Islands with college students doing a retreat and meeting some needs there in the native part. He will be back next Wednesday just in time for Christmas. Please say a prayer for this group as they attempt to show Christ's love during this special time of year. Merry Christmas! Hope everyone's house is as excited and chaotic as mine!

Deeper Still

2010-12-07T10:56:00.000-08:00

I was so excited about the opportunity to get away with some women this weekend to go to the conference,"Deeper Still" in Birmingham. I am so grateful to Meme, Ibby & Matt, & Kelly for helping with the boys so I could go. It takes a crew! Chad was at Central Hills with the youth for a retreat so it was a challenge to figure it all out but I am so grateful we did! I was challenged in so many ways. It was a refreshing time as well. Friday we shopped at the Summit, ate at the Cheescake Factory, and headed to the conference. Kay Arthur spoke that night. Her message was heavy as she addressed her concern for America and how we as Christians are ill-equipped for what lies ahead. She also talked very personally about suicide, affairs, and struggles she has faced in this life. I love when people are willing to be transparent about the struggles they have faced. I feel like it speaks to so many who think the things they are going through no one else understands. And offers hope to those struggling through tough life things. It is amazing to see how God can do so much with a woman who has gone through so much. Saturday morning came way too early and we were blessed to hear Priscilla Shirer. She talked about how silly some of God's chosen followers must have looked to the people around then. Noah building an ark when they had never seen rain. A girl pregnant at 14 saying "an angel did it", Moses, Sarah, David.....Are we willing to look silly or be misunderstood for Christ's sake? I was challenged in how I am teaching my boys. When someone is your Master, Your King, Your true object of worship it flows into all areas of your life. What do we do because the culture tells us to? What do we do that is just a religious act and nothing more? I want to teach my boys life giving faith. A genuine faith. That we would be faithful if we were the only ones who would be. If we looked silly. Kay Arthur said Friday night," God is not an accessory to our life...not something we tag on on Sundays ...He is our life" What is in our lives that shouldn't be? What are we devoting our time to? I have been telling my Sunday School girls I feel like God is dealing with me on how big the little things in everyday life are. How he can use such samll acts of obedience. I believe God is much more concerned about how I treat the people at my work, how I interact with my kids, how I treat my husband, my neighbors, than He is my church attendance record. Which is good but not the measuring stick of faithfulness or obedience in my relationship with Him. And finally Beth Moore Saturday afternoon which was incredible to say the least. A target run culminated our trip which made it pretty much a perfect weekend! Hope to enjoy a getaway like that again soon!!

Dear Shutterfly

2010-12-05T15:16:00.000-08:00

Dear Shutterfly,
So Christmas has come here pretty quick. I just looked up and realized it is already December. With four little fellas under seven it's a wonder I even know the month of the year. A bargain shopper I'm proud to be and am often sent deals that are too good to be true. At first rumor of your Christmas card deal I was certain it was "too good to be true"! But after friends have recieved theirs in the mail I have decided to believe. So a believer I am this Christmas. In more ways than one. Living in four towns in eight years our family has many friends we love but don't often see. Christmas cards is a family tradition that I love. And a way to stay connected. I practically run to the mailbox each day in December anxious to see pictures of people special in our life. So Shutterfly I am excited about your "Christmas gift" this year. And hopefully I can get these done quickly so our friends mailboxes will be full from someone who loves them. So friends...look at these links and do some shopping at Shutterfly.com!

http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-photo-cards

http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/holiday-cards

http://www.shutterfly.com/calendars

Mohawks & Memories

2010-11-29T12:47:00.000-08:00

Everett's "fauxhawk"

Crew & Elijah eating popcorn at their indoor "campout"

The Cookie Mama

The boys were so excited that Crew was going to come spend a few days for Thanksgiving! There is definitely not enough Crew to go around! The boys had a ball. We enjoyed having Barry, Camille, Crew, Nana, Pepaw, & Mamaw join us for Thanksgiving. Barry, Camille & I even braved the Toysrus pre Black Friday sale at 10p.m. on Thursday. It was exciting to say the least! The boys enjoyed their Thanksgiving break begininning with a visit from Kelly, Cayley , & Cadence and then having family here the end of the week! Hope all had a great Thanksgiving.

Camera Found!

2010-11-23T14:02:00.000-08:00

I was thrilled to open a drawer and find the camera I have been missing since we went to San Destin. Here are a few pics from our trip!

No more monkeys jumping on the bed

2010-11-16T07:47:00.001-08:00

Monkey See, Monkey Do

2010-11-16T07:38:00.000-08:00

My dad religiously does situps and pushups and has for years now. When he visits or we visit them the boys love to watch and sometimes participate. If you don't think little ones are watching us! Notice Emmett Jack in the corner.

Mr.Cafeteria Lady

2010-11-04T07:06:00.000-07:00

So somehow everyone is home today and I decided this morning I needed a plan so they wouldn't just beg and plead to watch movies all day. So I told them we were going to homeschool today. It has been hysterical. Elijah and Everett are teaching Easton all the ways of "big school". They are in "centers" now so I better go prepare their "work". When Chad called to check on things I told him we were doing "home school" today and he said to tell the boys the cafeteria lady would be home at lunch. HA.

Choosing To See

2010-11-03T19:42:00.000-07:00

My latest read....Choosing to SEE written by Mary Beth Chapman.

Many of you are probably familiar with Stephen Curtis Chapman. A christian singer recording artist who was around long before Contemporary Christian was the industry it is today. An incredibly talented musician. I have always been intrigued by people who seem to survive horrifying circumstances with their faith apparantly stronger than before. I mean I trust God but some things just seem too much to bear. Too hard to understand. I have always loved articles I have read by his wife because they have always been so candid. so real. I recently read this book and it was definitely one of the hardest books to read but it is an incredible book and comes highly recommend by me.

Not only does she talk very frank about the tragedy of their precious child but about her son who has a huge burden to bear in this life. The driver of the car. In one part of the book she is talking about Will Franklin(her son) and how after Maria was hit by the car how he got out and was so horrified and after help took over, He just started to run away. Caleb, the oldest brother chased him down and tackled him and tried to remove the blood stained shirt from him. Will franklin screamed out ," No leave it alone. I am the one that did this. I am the brother that did this." How gut wrenching. Not only to deal with the loss of your precious 5 year old baby girl but to comfort your son who carries the weight of guilt.

She also talks very openly about the thorn in her flesh named Depression. What an ugly word in our society. But what a real thing for so many. I love realness. I crave realness. To be willing to share your struggles in life so that God may recieve the glory for His work in your life. I pray that my boys would see real relationships. Real life. Real solutions. I pray they would see that even though in this life we will face trials and tribulation, Praise be to God He has overcome the world.

Favorites

2010-11-03T19:11:00.000-07:00

I actually had forgotten that I preordered Toy Story 3 on a special and it arrived on the perfect day! I got a call this afternoon from Everett's teacher that he was again complaining of a headache. No Fever. Everett is not our child to complain or try to get out of going to school so off to the dr. we went. Suprisingly he has strep throat. I thought a sore throat was a requirement for this illness but evidently not as Everett swears his only "hurt" has been his head. So he will be home fro

m school tomorrow and Toy Story 3 will be a great addition to our day!

This is definitely a favorite of our family and I'm sure this will be the kind of movie our boys will remember looking back in their childhood.

Which led me to thinking about some recent favorites of mine.....Chad and I heard the founder of TOMS speak at a convention in Atlanta a few years back and I truly think he had no idea at the time how big TOMS would become. What a great concept. You buy a pair of shoes and a child in need gets a pair. I know they have been around awhile now but it seems they are everywhere I look these days. I bought a pair about a year ago and was suprised by how comfortable they are. I am definitely a fan.

These are the tiny toms. Emmett Jack has these on his Christmas list!

Add caption

19 months

2010-11-03T18:05:00.000-07:00

Cannot believe my little guy is 19 months. He truly has his own little personality. To be quite honest I thought by the 4th child they just had to be mellow, go with the flow kind of kids. Certainly God just made them that way for survival purposes. Wrong. Emmett Jack knows what he wants and He wants it now. He is loving but fiesty. Loves to throw things, climb things, hit his brothers....definitely not a pushover to say the least. He fights for his position. And usually wins. Loves to dance when music is on. Loves his blankee and lamby. And is a champ at going to bed on his own. It only took us four kids to figure that one out! I have always been a little stubborn with advice. I'm a taste and see kinda girl. That doesn't always pay attention. I couldn't be prouder to be the momma of this sweet, loving, fiesty 19 month old. A few stats on our fella...
Weight: 24.6 lbs.
Favorite Word: "Ma"
Favorite Food: Yogurt
Favorite thing to do: Climb(tables, chairs, beds, bookcases,etc.)
Loves: Dogs, Airplanes, Balls

lazy afternoon

2010-11-03T11:43:00.000-07:00

I love nothing more than a fall day with not alot on the schedule! Emmett Jack is growing so fast and loves to follow Easton around and they can actually play together now! The big boys are both doing great in school and excited about the holidays right around the corner! Hopefully I'll get back to blogging more regularly but I wouldn't bet on it!

Best Kept Secret

2010-10-04T12:50:00.000-07:00

I think I have discovered what some like to call a "best kept secret". We were so thankful to get to take a few days last week and head to Destin . We left after church Wednesday night and drove through the night and arrived at 3 a.m. We felt as though we owned the beach and the pool at Hidden Dunes for three days. It was incredible. Perfect weather. Water was perfect. No crowds but enough people to not feel like a ghost town. No waits at restaurants. It was fabulous. The boys had a ball. And I can truly say I felt like I had a vacation even with four little wild boys! My mother In law sent me a few pics this morning but i haven't downloaded mine. So here is a sneak peek! More to come!

Easton the shark

Nappin on Daddy

My sweet boys

Things I want to remember

2010-09-14T12:36:00.000-07:00

1. How much Emmett Jack loves to make a mess while he eats...

2. How Emmett Jack(as well as the others at about this age) try to get in little hot wheels cars and get frustrated when they cannot. I have always thought it was the most hysterical thing. Emmett Jack has a little bitty four wheeler he sets in the floor and then proceeds to sit on it even though it is only the size of a battery! Hysterical.

3. How Easton says "engine turtles" for ninja turtles and "chickafey" for chickfila.

4. How much the boys love costumes and getting into character!

Yes...Eastons hair is pulled back. Just long enough for a picture!I just had to see what our little girl would have looked like! Precious huh??

5. How cute Emmett Jack looks in this outfit(minus the drool!) Love it!

The way diet cokes are running through our house I'm not sure how long or how much I'm gonna remember!! Lovin' these years with my sweet boys!

Message to Uncle Barry from Elijah

2010-09-14T06:54:00.000-07:00

This is the only pic on the computer I am working from but this is Barry with his tennis team. He is second from right.

Happy Birthday Barry from our bunch! Hope you have a great day celebrating 34!

Happy Birthday Pepaw!

2010-09-13T07:52:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PEPAW!

Today is my dad's birthday. Although this picture is from three years ago, it is one of my favorites. I love how Everett has his arm around him. This definitely captures his love for his Pepaw! The boys always enjoy their sports ventures, fishing in moss point, & the time they get to spend with Pepaw and Nana.

In this picture Elijah was 4, Everett was 2, & Easton was 3 months. Happy Birthday Dad! Hope you have a great day! (All my Love, Beth ) ha ha

His & Hers

2010-08-28T19:26:00.000-07:00

His view

Her view

His View

Her view

HIs view

Her view

His view

Her view

Sometimes life just doesn't seem fair. But truth be told I love my view! Even that last little nut!
Chad has been in the VIrgin Islands since Wednesday and will be coming back late Monday. He is with our good friend and missions minister Dickie Rhea, who has actually lived there in the Virgin Islands this past year. Dickie and his wife Elizabeth went to teach in the schools and try to help them with their agriculture. They had many missions and projects going during there course of the year they were gone. Chad went back with Dickie to help with setting up computers and such for the students in the schools. Chad said that although most of us think of the Virgin Islands as nice vacation resort the native people there are actually close to third world. He & Dickie were working but also seeing what needs could be met when they take a college group over Christmas Break.

VIsiting the Brothers

2010-08-24T11:46:00.000-07:00

Me & the little guys went to school today to eat lunch with the big guys. I always love to see their faces when they spot us. So sweet. They were both having a great day!

elijah & best buddy grace

Emmett Jack wanted OUT!

I don't know who was more excited! Easton's face in this picture kills me!

Everett's class time just before lunch

We also made a run by City Thrift to see if they had any "boy" dress up clothes or costumes. The boys have been begging for awhile for some that fit so they can quit stuffing themselves into the size 2T/3T costumes we do have. We made it out with three that are in the washer now. The boys will be so excited when they get home from school! They also have a "toy section" that of course the boys ran toward. I always love to see what they grab!Emmett Jack went straight for the stroller while Easton found a doll scooter, hopped on and tried to give it a ride! And yes I am that idiot mother that pulls out her camera in the thrift store!

Come, Follow Me

2010-08-23T12:04:00.000-07:00

This morning I took Easton & Emmett Jack to feed the ducks(& geese) at the "duck pond". Easton had a ball. At one point he looked at me and said,"momma, they just lub me so much!". It was precious. I have to say they did.Or at least the bagels we brought! It really was amazing. They swarmed him and I was shocked at how he talked to them and fed them. Normally he runs from anything that is coming towards him. Emmett Jack was not quite as excited about the ducks but enjoyed the playground and was fine if I was holding him. Emmett Jack decided he would eat his bagel. Easton shared his!

As we were leaving Easton said," All those ducks loved me and runned after me." So trying to make it a teachable moment I said,"Is that what God wants us to do? To love him & run after him & learn more about him?" Easton's response..."No it's not. We can't run in church."

103

2010-08-23T11:33:00.000-07:00

My Great-Aunt, MattieGusta passed away this past week and we traveled to Morton Saturday for her funeral. My grandmother, Memaw was her sister. I have so many great memories of them together. They were the best of friends and when we went to visit Memaw we always spent time with MattieGusta too. When my Memaw died MattieGusta moved out to California to be close to her daughter Carolyn so I have only seen her a few times in the last ten or so years. She lived an incredible 103 years. Her husband is buried in Morton,MS which is why the funeral was there. We had a good time visiting with family we don't get to see very often.

I hate that I did not get some better pictures but after the service we had lunch at Lakeside Presbyterian in Brandon. The boys had a great time with cousins Davis & Emilee. The playgrounds were great!

Sheperding

2010-08-20T19:07:00.000-07:00

"God is concerned with the heart-the well-spring of life(Prov.4:23). Parents tend to focus on the externals of behaviors rather thatn the internal overflow of the heart. We tend to worry more about the "what" of behavior than the "why". Accordingly, most of us spend an enormous amount of energy in controlling and constraining behavior. To the degree and extent to which our focus is on behavior, we miss the heart."
"When we miss the heart, we miss the subtle idols of the heart, Romans 1 makes it clear that all human beings are worshippers: either we worship and serve God, or we make an exchange and worship and serv e substitutes for God-created things rather than the Creator(Romans 1:18-25). When parenting short-circuts to behavior we miss the opportuinity to help our kids understand that straying behavior displays a straying heart. Our kids are always serving something, either God or a substitute for God-an idol of the heart."

Taken from: Sheperding a Child's Heart
By: Tedd Tripp

Birthday Partying

2010-08-20T18:38:00.000-07:00

We definitely get to have plenty of birthday party fun with four little guys. Everett's good buddy Jake Melton had his birthday this Tuesday night. It was a semi rainy day and they had a gigantic inflatable water slide. The boys had a ball. Needless to say they all got a little muddy!

Everett and his buddy Jake

Shirt we made Jake for his birthday

Everett on the slide

Emmett Jack after the clothes had to be removed!