Life with the Dunn's

WAZ UP??????

2010-01-31T11:46:00.000-08:00

Hahaha!! I'm quite sure you've all given up on me, since it's been what??? SIX MONTHES??? Yikes! My how time flies!

Well, let's see what's been going on since August:
Parker and Taylor started school...T's in 1st grade and doing well, played flag again this fall and was a flag pullin' machine (if you caught him on a good day!), is not a fan of offense AT ALL! He's still cute as a bug and crazy as a loon!!

Park started her first year at CAK, finally!!! She loves it! Made some sweet little friends and has a great teacher. (That's us on the 1st day...she actually told me to hit the road! T would still let me sit in class w/ him if I wanted to!!)

Jimmy and I went to a UT game with some friends.... don't worry, there's nothing wrong with your computer. I am actually wearing orange. It was a joke for a friend. I was a big hit with all the frat girls though!
Here's T chillin' with his friends after a baseball game birthday party...

He didn't do to bad....got some of his dad's mad skills!!

And Park is the socialite of the century, here's her with Mattie and Jillian after school one day:

And decked out with Briley.....

Oh, I almost forgot...she became a soccer star this year!!!!

These are from her first practice:

Think she ended up with like 20 or so goals...haha!

Man, things are good right now. God has carried us in his right hand through a couple of hard years and we are reaping the benefit of faithfulness!!

Jimmy got a new job doing what he loves...looking for oil and making deals. It's SO good to see him enjoying work again!

And me, I'm the same, doing laundry, dishes, ironing, yelling, driving, yelling, cooking (I mean, heating up), yelling, helping w/ homework, yelling, having lunch with friends....you get the picture. We're good!!!

Well, maybe I'll be back before another six monthes goes by! I've got some great Christmas pics to download let's see how long that takes!!

Bye!

Life's A Beach...

2009-08-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

All I can say is WOW! What an amazing couple of weeks we had! Last year we didn't get to take a vacation, so this year God has blessed us triple time!!
It all started the 2nd week in July. Some of our dear friends had a house in Hilton Head and insisted that we join them. I'm SO glad we did!
Take a look at the best part:
We didn't tell the kids anything about it and at 5am we went in and woke them up and told them we were going to the beach...RIGHT NOW!

They were so very excited....however, were not happy about the flashing camera.

On our way!

Until...FINALLY we got there!

Park and Elizabeth Grace were in their suits before we were all out of the car!

They were also the first ones to bed!

Waiting!! Our first trip out to the beach.... I love it!

OK, I've always loved taking pictures and I mentioned earlier that Polka Dot gave me her pro camera to take. Well, this was my first "pro" picture. I'm hooked. If anyone would like to donate to the Get April a New Camera Fund I'll take your first photo for free!! Ha!

(Here's my 2nd one....UGH! PRECIOUS!)

Off to Marley's for some ice cream. Here's Taylor practicing his multi-tasking.

Don't worry about this one wasting one last drop!

And then passing out!

Our sweet friends Jim & DeeDee Brogan. They look a little like they just got caught, don't they!!!

Dad doing a little business before he heads out to the golf course.

This is the happiest these guys were all week. Off for a 7.5 hour round of golf. J, you still owe me for this one!! Especially because I had to go...

CRABBING! But at least I got to see this smile! You know T was in heaven!

We had a couple of bites but didn't catch anything. There's always next time! (While I'm at the Spa for 7.5 hrs!)

Here we have # 3 in my favorite pics...I want this in black & white! She looks like a child from the depression!

MORE ice cream, we headed over to Sea Pines for some favorite spots!

Look at those sweet little dirty feet!

Parker's stylin" on the way for some evening beach time. Everyone else took a trip to Savannah and we stayed back...

Thankgoodness we did because T hit the jackpot with wildlife. He found sandollars and starfish, he even picked up a cool shell and later that night we saw it walking around...hermit crab!
He even got P helping him!

T was a natural on the board.

Park was not. She busted her tail feathers!!

Do you think this kid is tired??? Ha!

The last day we were there we went down and took some fancy pictures...

At Last...they got to get IN!!!

Our last afternoon out...we made T say goodbye to all his creatures.

Mary Caroline helped (I LOVE this girl!)....they got them all lined up!

I just put this picture in here for fun...Jimmy is photo-impaired. He always gets the scenery and the people are just accessories! (I do love you though honey!)

On the way home we crossed paths with Mama & Papa, on their way to Charleston!

After we got home, T learned to ride his bike...in about and hour. (peer pressure, all the older kids at the beach were riding.)

This was 3 weeks ago...he's now flying down the driveway and standing up. Just getting ready for the X Games!! Boo!

We pulled out the slip-n-slide.

And, Mimi Kate came for a visit.

THEN, it was time to leave for the beach again!

My Aunt and Uncle were in Destin so we freeloaded on them too! Daddy had to work though so it was just me & the kids.

I had forgotten how white the beaches are and how clear the water is!

BEAUTIFUL!

This is my big tough cousin Evan (Heaven to Park) sporting the pink float...I'm saving this for blackmail!

The next morning P woke up with a...
BLACK EYE! Little fall from the bed. UGH! She's my accident prone one. I always thought it would be the boy...
This was the view from our bedroom balcony......aaaaahhhhhh.

I thought it would be sweet to take all the kids picture on the beach for my grandfather's Christmas present...we had to improvise with the blackeye!

And here's me with my babies....I only put this in here to prove that I was actually there!!! I always tell Jimmy, if I die the kids won't know what I look like because I'm always the one taking the pictures!!!

This is 10 minutes after we got on the road headed home.

Whew! I started this at 11am, it is now 5:09 and I'm done. I've now found a down side to the awesome camera. To many pictures to choose from AND better quality takes LONGER!

I'm now going to spend some time with my family!!!

PS I do realize there are way to many pictures....you try to pick from 660!!!

Strolling down memory lane...

2009-07-17T13:29:00.000-07:00

You all know I took a little vacation from blogging in the spring, and as I was organizing my pictures I found some that really should have been on here. So, go back with me to...late winter, all the way up to a few weeks ago and lets see what was going on...

First we have the 100 Day Party, which is a BIG event for the kindergarteners at CAK. The kids play games, make crafts and have snacks all having to do with 100. It carries with it a cowboy theme (can't tell you why, I just roll with it).

Here we have Mrs. Prines little angles.....

Her favorite two.... haha!

And this one I just liked....I think Park is at the Little Gym at a birthday party.

This one I remember....Easter! The big egg hunt at the church.

The kids are with Leah and Luke...their very first friends. I can't believe how big they all are!

Since we don't have a dog, Park was asking for one of the goats. Right!

And here's Parker with a little friend she made at Old Navy.

(Yes you're seeing it right, she's plastic)

And here is my little Blue Bird. That's what P was in her dance recital.

Looks a little Vegas Showgirly hu?

She was so excited to get to wear makeup and get her very own flowers. It was all worth it!

Especially when we finished it off with a BIG ice cream cone!!

And....here''s T trying to make out with the hula model at Party City.

(What is it with my kids and plastics? Creepy!)

Next we have some pictures from Mama and Papa's house. It's always fun there!!

First a little slippin" and slidin'....

You gotta watch out for Papa, he's sneaky. He put some dish liquid on there to make it go fast.

And as a plus, they were clean when the finished!!

Water gun fighting with dad.

Finishing up with a four wheeler ride in the evening.

These are the Sapp boys, friends of T's from school. Their Mama and I are pretty tight too!! We met up for a movie to take a break from the summer sun.

Yes, it was a total accident that they were all dressed alike. Super cute though!!

Just a random picture of my little lady on the front porch eating a popsicle.....

with her legs spread and her panties showing. Nice.

Finishing off with the thank you card P's sweet little teacher sent me. We're really going to miss her!!!

Hope you enjoyed our little walk, I did. Sometimes things get so busy and mashed together I don't really get to enjoy them. Thank goodness for cameras!!!

Well, stay tuned for beach pictures. We took a trip to Hilton Head with some WONDERFUL friends and Polka Dot let me take her cool camera. I think I've found my calling...Photography!

Tee for two...

2009-07-03T13:50:00.000-07:00

To quote Spongebob Square Pants...this is going to be the best day ever!!! Well, it's July 4th weekend and what better way to start than a little golf. Jimmy was going to take Taylor to hit some balls this morning and Pink got upset b/c she never gets to go. Soooo, we all went. By the looks of the pictures we had a very productive, good time....I'll tell you what really happened at the end.

Dad is trying to establish that this is a golf course, not a playground so we had to be quiet and respectful. (You can see how well they're listening, quiet is not their thing)

Now to get the balls, very loud that machine.

Here's Park getting her very first lesson from daddy.

T is already a PGA golfer and needs no assistance. So he thinks.

Not to shabby baby girl, great follow thru!!

This is precious! We love us some sports at the Dunn house!! Now I just need to learn and we'll have a foursome. Problem is this game requires patience...not my strong point.

Here's when things start getting rocky.....

Park's done after about 10 minutes, she's crawling....

Then they noticed the bunker behind them.....

And after chasing them down to the lake over the cart path and thru a fairway....we settled under a nice tree to hit each other with sticks. (I took this before the hitting.)

Not an entirely horrible experience, I'm exhagerating, it could have been MUCH worse! It was nice to do something different and dad did get to hit some by himself while we went on our tour of the course.

Do pets really complete a family???

2009-07-02T17:03:00.001-07:00

Below you will see the smiling faces of 2 children with their beloved pets. We tried fish once when Taylor was 2...they got sucked in the filter; then we got a Hampster, he hissed everytime we got near him; now we are the proud owners of 2 hermit crabs, 2 turtles, and a frog (he did not wish to participate in the photo).

(Closer look so you could see Sparkles under the rock. Ned likes it up there so he can sun bathe)

It wasn't until just now that I realized I'm sharing how disgusing our pond is with everyone. You're welcome. Come see it in person sometime...it's really something!

Anyway, we've told the kids for years we'd get them a dog when we move. They've grown tired of waiting and decided to catch their own pets. Wish they could've stumbled upon 2 completely house-broken, calm weimaraners....oh well.

How Do You Pick a Father?

2009-06-21T13:29:00.000-07:00

When you're looking for a husband there's a certain criteria you tend to follow, unintentionally of course. But it's only after that man becomes a father that you really know how good a choice you've made. You don't know the questions you need to ask when looking for the man who'll father your children....
Like, will he be as good a father as you had. And will your father and brother become his friends.

Will he be a servant to the King?

Will he be there on Daddy Day at ballet.....

Or teach your son to fish (even when he doesn't know how)....

And let your little girl tag along.....

Will he be there for trick or treat....

Would he go through the incredible hassel to bring home a 200lb pumpkin just to see your sons eyes light up.....

Will he take business calls at the beach......

Or truly care about Super Mario...even on New Years day during 25 football games....

Will he be the one to teach your son how to play football....

And give him his first trophy....

Will he build a snowman with them......

Or take your son to watch baseball and share his love of it.....

Will he walk into the ocean and look for jellyfish....

Will he make you smile 9 years later the way he did that very first moment that you knew he was the one...

If you can answer yes to all these questions you've made the perfect choice and God has blessed your family.

Happy Fathers Day baby....We love you.

"Children's children are the crown of old men, and the glory of children is there father." Proverbs 17:6

Up, Up and away!!

2009-06-04T16:49:00.001-07:00

Grandmommy & grandaddy took us to see "UP" in 3D. How cool are these glasses. They look like the BCG's Jess had to wear at bootcamp!
The kids were so good, Park ate her weight in popcorn and Taylor laughed so loud you could hear him in the other theaters!! I love my kids!!

Well, I think I've found a way to get around our compter issues and keep up w/ the blog...my good ole' Crackberry! It's not easy, I'm not gonna lie, but for my faithful readers, I'll do what I have to do.....for all 6 of you!! Ha ha!!

We're Still Here!!!

2009-05-28T09:23:00.000-07:00

This is the only picture I have to offer currently. (I do realize these are my children and all of you won't share my feeling but, those are the cutest flippin' kids I've EVER seen!) We're having technical difficulties here at the Dunn house. Both of our computers have issues. Mine just won't read discs or my memory card so I can't get my pictures off my camera. Not life threatening, just a bummer for anyone who reads this b/c quite frankly the pictures are better than my words. Mr. Dunn's are a bit more serious as it is what helps him make our living. Anyway, my sweet sister took the kids to meet a friend of hers who's a photographer and she got some amazing shots of them! It was a birthday present for me!! Just about the best one I've ever gotten! :)

Anyway, this last month has been CRAZY! As the end of the school year always is. If I can ever get pictures on here again you'll see T's birthday, field trip to the zoo, field day, last day of school and of Parker, her in her recital costume (which her recital is this weekend and she's SO excited b/c she gets to wear makeup and get flowers!) her program at school and swimming. It'll be LONG!

We're just hanging out, enjoying sleeping in and going to the pool. We love us some summertime!

Happy Birthday Sweet Boy!!!

2009-05-03T09:33:00.000-07:00

Wow, 7 years old. I have to admit this one hurts a little. Last week he lost his top right tooth and I just started to cry. He's growing up so fast. People tell you that, that is goes so fast so enjoy it. But with all that goes on in raising children it's hard to savor every moment...then you look up and 7 years has gone by.

Most everyone who knows me is aware of the fact that I didn't ever want kids. Ha! On May 3, 2002 God showed me what "He" wanted for me. He's so much smarter than I am. These last 7 years have been the most exhilerating, difficult, emotional, exciting....I could go on forever....years of my life. I'm so glad I didn't miss out on him!

Today I am so thankful for Taylor. He is the person who showed me who I am, and made me want to be better. He makes me love life and he shows me how to find joy in everything, everyday. He, like his precious daddy, is so kind and thoughtful and always wants me to be happy (even when I don't deserve to be). I wish I could be more like him.

He makes our family the crazy, silly family that we are. We are all blessed to have him!

Happy birthday my precious little boy...I love you so much!!!

Thanks be to God for his undescribable gift. II Corinthians 9:15

Bringing back "The Babe"...

2009-04-09T12:45:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Prine does something special every year with her class, she teaches them about some really important historical figures in our country. And some patriotic songs. It's really cute. Let's see, there was George Washington, Abe Lincoln, Teddy Rosevelt, Betsy Ross, Helen Keller, and of course: the Babe, just to name a few. They worked so hard and did such a good job.

T got to hold this picture while he did his part...that's Mrs. Prines brother shaking the Great Bambino's hand when he came threw Mobile. It's an amazing picture!! I've asked her for a copy of it to put in T's room!!!!

T and Hutton (as herself!!) She, of course, was the real star of the show. It's amazing she didn't get strep, the flu, pink eye, or any of the other things that float around these kids... they had their hands all over her!!

Thomas Edison, Babe Ruth, Henry Ford, Theodore Rosevelt, and Ben Franklin.

The Babe and Betsy Ross.....hmmmmm, wouldn't have put those two together.

And the Babe with Elizabeth Blackwell...now that's a match!

The Babe's Biggest fan!!! He's a real Ladies Man isn't he???

Getting ready for the show.... Of course baby sis had to be there to see brother's debut!!

(Go to the bottom to mute the music...and forgive the fact that I am an idiot and filmed this sideways......)

Oh, she was soooooo proud of him!!

And guess who just happened to be in town that day and got to see the show.....Papa!

I don't have any idea why he was doing this, but when I got home and was looking through the pictures and saw this, I thought it was the cutest thing I'd ever seen!!!!!

A little ice cream party to finish things off...

This is what Babe Ruth does after a hard day, he sits on the floor in front of his parents room to play Nintendo.

I don't know how many times I've said I love CAK on here, but I'm gonna say it again.....

I LOVE THAT SCHOOL!

The sweet things...

2009-04-08T10:23:00.000-07:00

No, I'm not talking about candy... Today was the Kindergarten Easter Egg Hunt. All the classes go into the Prayer Garden to find 12 (not 10, long story) eggs with their name on them.

At first they all run out, almost silently, looking for their eggs. Then you start hearing "Hey, I found one of yours..." These sweet little children helping each other, and so excited for one another.

There are so many things to be thankful and mindful of during Easter. This is just another...

There are seasons in life, great highs and great lows, but all so sovereignly given. Lately I find myself so aware of the blessings in my life. My husband, my children, friends and family....daily provisions, and today for Easter Egg hunts. For the pure hearts in children that remind us of a Saviors love. And the sweetness of the celebration!

This is Happiness...

2009-03-28T06:12:00.000-07:00

Sit back and relax folks, this is going to be a long one!

Those of you reading this know that it's been a rough couple of years for our family, so this week was truely a blessing!! My very best friend Shenoa (I say that b/c she's known me for almost 20 years and is still my friend despite!) asked us to go to her families beach house in Hilton Head....my kids FAVORITE place in the world. So even though their spring break was the week before, and Taylor missed the week before that with strep....we went. And this, what you're about to see, this part is called "Happiness"...

Oh how I've missed this moment. After a long day on the beach we get all cleaned up and take these rosey cheeked little ones out for dinner and ice cream!

This is the first day out. The beach was a little chilly so we stayed up by the club and the kids dug trenches, built sand castles, and yes....rode on Taylor like he was a donkey.

Landon had to get in on that action!!

So sweet!!!!!

Classic hu? The boys are annoyed at another picture b/c they want to run and pick up "stuff" and Park is tickled to show her hula skills!!

I can't believe they got in this water. We had great weather, but this water was COLD!

And there's the "stuff". Apparently it was sandollar season and Taylor found about 20...I didn't know they were alive....ugh. Another thing to kill. And he did. Then over night he had an attack of concience (sorry if I spelled this wrong, I'm to lazy to look it up.) and decided from now on he was going to let things live. Nice.

On the way to South Beach for some yummy ice cream....

Wow, I can't believe we're this old....we'll leave it at that...with kids. I'll have to say we talked a lot about the good ole' days when all we did was lay in the sun and read magazines, no worries of a kid running off or bugging other people!

There's that ice cream. Of course Park has to get the stuff that has 18 different food colors so she can wipe it all over herself!

And here's the "big play ground". This is one of the things that keeps parents coming back here. You can actually sit down and rest for a while!! This was our morning stop. Ride the bikes over, grab a cup of coffee and relax. Why don't we live there again????????

HEAVY LOAD!!! This was my workout. You can make the resistance as easy as you like but with 90 lbs on the back.....you're burnin' some calories!!!!

I took Taylor down to the beach and the little ones stayed here w/ Shenoa. A few minutes later here she comes with them saying she caught them layin there talkin about kissing. UGH. I knew I'd have to watch out for those McGuffin boys but, at 4???? Of course Park isn't showing much resistance. Ha!

This makes me nuts. Never in all my like have I enjoyed rolling in the sand. He's probably still got the stuff in his crack!!!

Park layed down w/ Shenoa & I to get some sun and fell fast asleep....

The little lady even kept her legs crossed!!

This was our last morning at the playground and we walked around the Harbor, Taylor asked if we could buy a boat like this.... Keep dreamin' buddy!

We had such a great time!! BUT, we sure did miss daddy! Park woke me up the day we left and asked if we could go get daddy and come back. I hope we make it back soon!!!

I'm back!!

2009-03-10T15:45:00.000-07:00

Whew! That birthday stuff really really wore me out!! I still haven't gotten the ballet party pics from my personal photographer (my friend Jill) I'll put them on as soon as I get them!
So here's what's been going on w/ us for the last week or so:

Parker's officially a big girl, she can wear a towel on her head after bathtime!

Hutton button and her mama came over and hung out one rainy day. (We really had more fun than it looks like!!)

Button fell in love with Marco the Marshall Mascot......I wish I caught a video it was hilarious!

Parker had her friend Amelia over after dance last week for a playdate. Oh, the fun they had! (Darn that girl closing her eyes!!!)

And finally, Taylor has been as sick as the poor kid has EVER BEEN IN HIS LIFE. Seriously!

After 3 days of complete agony, the strep test that we took on Sunday (and came back negative) today came back positive. He's not eaten in 3 days and has lost 4 lbs!!!! I know this b/c we took him back to the doctor today to tell them this can't be a virus, it's not getting better. And like I said, they cld about 2 hrs after we got home to tell us that the culture was actually positive. UGH!

This is the collection of drinks he's gathered on the bedside table for when he can swallow! Pitiful little thing, every once in a while he walks in the kitchen, grabs another drink.

Well, I hope I have better stuff to report next week...we're on Spring Break!! We could sure use a BREAK!!!

It's My Birthday!!!

2009-02-26T08:25:00.001-08:00

"It's my birthday today, I'm 4 years old. I'm not 3 any more!" This is how she greeted everyone she came in contact with. Oh, how this child has been looking forward to this day!!
As I've mentioned we do everything in 3's. We had a party in WV Saturday for her. (Forgot my camera, hoping Aunt Carla comes through w/ some pics for me!!) And then she had her school party and my family party on Wednesday, then Saturday we finish up with a Ballet Party with her friends. Whew!
Ok, so she first woke up at about 1am, and came down asking if it was her birthday yet. "Yes, now go back to sleep." Then she woke up at 6am asking if it was her birthday yet, "yes, but daddy and Taylor are still asleep so go lay down in the living room and watch tv." As soon as she heard Taylor stirring she stood up in the chair and yelled....."IT'S MY BIRTHDAY!!!!"

This is how a 4 year old princess looks in the morning!! Beautiful.

Here are the Tiara cookies that Ms Jill, Parker, and Mommy made. Ms Jill could've done a much better job on her own, she just let us feel involved!!

Ms Sally giving Park her birthday card and some hugs!! Parker Dunn LOVES this sweet lady.

Parker and her buddy Amelia enjoying those yummy cookies. Look at Parks, she decorated hers special....with all different color sprinkles!

Then off to lunch with Maddie and Molly. These three have been friends since they were old enough to go into the nursery!! Look how grown up they all are!!! I wish I knew what they were talking about. They look so sweet and happy.

Now for the treats with Grandmommy, Grandaddy, and Auntie Jamie. Taylor went over to my sweet friend Karens after school so I could get some things done. I ended up sitting at her house talking to her so long I almost missed the party!! OOps. Anyway, by the time I got home everyone was there and I had to rush to make spagetti, so I have no pictures of anyone except the birthday girl. And only of her opening presents!!! AND, this is her very own CAMERA!!! I don't know who was more excited, me or her!!

Well, thanks Jamie. Parker just turned 15. She got Hannah Montana stuff. The cd and the microphone. Ugh. This morning I was trying to clean up the house so I put her in her room w/ all her new stuff and she was pushing me out the door so she could get in front of the mirror and dance. Wish I had a camera in there!!!

And here she is with her wild and wonderful big brother munching down on some Maggie Moos Cotton Candy ice cream and some amazing cup cakes (personalized for each guest...b/c we're fancy like that) from the Cupcakery. Thanks to Parkers so wonderful Aunt Jamie!!!

And so ends this round of the celebration. Stay tuned for the next episode of It's My Birthday!

Wow, baby girl is turning 4!!

2009-02-24T18:06:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that when she wakes up in the morning my little baby girl is going to be 4 years old. I've been telling everyone that I'm not that upset about it...being that she's looked 4 since she was 2, but as I look at these pictures. I am a little sad. Don't get me wrong, I love watching her do ballet, and play w/ her Barbies and paint her fingernails while she's wearing her Cinderella dress. But I wouldn't mind rocking her at 2am again!

Her first picture w/ mom and dad. Jimmy looks like he's 22 and I look like I weigh 200 lbs. Aahhh, the joys of childbirth!!!
Ugh, look at how stinkin' cute that little boy is!! Parker definately has gotten better looking w/ age!! Ha! I always say, I'd rather my kids start out ugly....who wants to peak at infancy?

Happy Birthday Princess P!!

I love you so much and I am so blessed that God picked me to be your mommy!!

X's and O's...

2009-02-18T16:04:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines!!!! Hugs and Kisses from the Dunns!
Jill let us borrow last years X & O. Aren't they precious. Taylor kind of looked like a bullseye w/out Parker around but hey....
Like we do w/ every other special occasion, we celebrated for three days. T didn't have school that Friday so his party was on Thurs., Parks was on Friday, and the the offical day on Saturday. To tell you the truth, by Saturday I was OVER IT!! I don't think Jimmy and I even said happy valentines to each other. Sad, but true. Plus the kids were so stoned on sugar I was just anxiously awaiting their come-down. Ha!
Taylors sweet teacher Mrs. Primes let Park come to his party so she got to be in Kindergarten for a day, I honestly think she could have passed this year but it's a Christian school so to lie about her age would have been "wrong".

Ugh!!! SO FLIPPIN' CUTE!!!

These are the cupcakes Park and I made for the party.

Jill got the picture with both of them looking, lucky dog!

OK, I have no idea why all these girls are looking at Taylor...hope he didn't"toot"! Yuck!!

Taylor really needs to get some guy friends!! Mimi Kate and Claire were making him play sleeping beauty with them. They took turns being the princess and he was the prince who

kisses them awake! Save the "ladies man" act for later son.

Mommy and her O.

Now it's time for the X's party.....

Delivering her Hello Kitty valentines...

"The girls"... Parker's birthday party is next week at her ballet studio and she is very

adament that there will be NO BOYS there. I'm negotiating for dad and Taylor!

Such a cute little set up I had to get a picture!

Thanking God for ice cream and cookies, like she does every night in bed!!

Yum, yum!

Her sweet little class.

So this is a totally random picture but hysterical. We rode to T's party w/ Jill and Park wanted to sit in Huttons pretty pink carseat. This is the kind of carseat she should technically be in, but as you can see, Monster Girl doesn't exactly fit!!!

Hope you all had a happy "heart" day!!!

We Have a Winner!!

2009-02-07T07:39:00.000-08:00

OK, Last night we went to what I think is the coolest birthday party I've ever been to. I'm just bummed I didn't think of it!!!! I wish my printer would work....just once...and I could scan these invitations for you to see. On the front was the seal of the Dept. of Defense and inside are PERSONALIZED orders for each child...Private Taylor was instructed to be at Camp Simms to carry out the mission of celebrating his friend Logans b-day. He was to be dressed appropriately to carry out bootcamp drills and there would be dinner and b-day rations provided. (so cute) Also, in lieu of gifts, we were asked to help stock a care package to the troops serving over seas. (tear, sniff)

So when we got to the party...which was is Logans parents warehouse...the kids were given head bands, dog tags, tatoos, and code names....

aka...Taylor and Mimi

"Private Benjamin" Ha. She was so happy she was wearing an outfit that matched her head band!

Then we said the pledge of allegiance. Check out T standing at attention.

Uh, oh, it's hard to say what I caught these 2 doing inside the obstecle course....plotting a take-over?

They divided everyone into teams and had stations to go to. This is the coloring table. Where the kids colored pictures to send in the care package. All the kids in T's class love his baby sister. They're so sweet w/ her...she fits right in!

Taylor was the coach of his team....he really enjoyed the Power role! Ugh.

Here are the troops....After about 50 times each running the course, it actually wasn't hard to get them to sit still for this!

Everyone was given a completion certificate with their treat bags...and a US Navy poster. (Don't worry Squid, we won't hang it up!!) So, what do ya think? The coolest birthday party ever???

That's what I thought!

Seriously???

2009-02-02T14:46:00.001-08:00

So like I said, we had our little snow and are ready to move on to warmer times........oh but no, the Lord has other plans!!
We woke up to a rainy day. A yucky day. I dropped the kids off at school and came home to fold the 5 loads of laundry that had been residing on my loveseat for the last 2 weeks. (yes that's what I said, 2 weeks) As I was folding I kept looking out the window; as the E! True Hollywood Story of Hip Hop wives wasn't holding my attention. How much has your opinion dropped of me in the last 30 seconds? I'm a terrible house keeper and I watch smut in my spare time. Anyway, as I looked out the window....the rain changed to snow and w/in an hour everything was covered. Don't get me wrong, it was a nice little suprise...I just wish we'd gotten it at 6am so I hadn't had to wake up. As I was saying.....it was a nice little treat. The kids and teachers got to practice their evacuation plan, Ha ha, and I got to practice my patience driving behind people who don't know how to drive in snow. I didn't do so well on my test, I'm expecting more chances to practice soon! Well, we finally got home and let the kids go out and play.......FINALLY, we got to build a snowman....His name is Charles. Enjoy.

Yes, Parker does have on 2 different gloves. We lost her other pink one and they aren't selling them at the store anymore so they can make room for the bathing suits.

You all know I don't sew, therefore there is no reason for me to keep buttons around....However, my precious Uncle Spunki gave me one of my favorite gifts from my childhood this year.....a book of Lifesavers. Which I sacrificed a pack for some eyes and buttons!

Taylor and Charles.........

Winter blahs.....

2009-01-28T12:46:00.000-08:00

So I got a harassing email from my sister yesterday about my lack of updates. Well, there's nothing to update. We are suffering from the winter blahs. We've had our little snow and now we're ready to move on to Spring.

Anway, so I started looking at pictures in my computer and came across these...our last trip to Hilton Head. If I didn't have the blahs before....I do now! The kids look so little! I think this is our favorite place to go. And here are a few reasons why.......

Now you all know how much Park loves to swim....well T loves to collect wild life. I remember on this trip some crabs were hatching and they were everywhere!! Including in our condo. He brought the bucket in FULL of sand and crabs. Nice. Yes folks, that's a shark. The kid caught a shark. Actually, let me explain...there were some guys fishing and "they" caught the shark and let it go so T came along w/ his bucket and snatched him up. I'm sure he died a horrible death....T beat that thing to death. And yes, he is standing in the room w/ it. Ugh.
We always stay over by South Beach and I love to go to the boardwalk and see the boats, sometimes a dolphin or two, and let the kids play on the playground.

Do I even need to say anything? Ahhhhh....

It's always a treat when that sweet clown is there to paint faces. Here is the black Spiderman and Miss Fairy. Park wanted flowers & butterflies on her arm and she put jewelry on for her too!

I love this picture. (Don't be alarmed, we got them back to the room before the downpour began!)

We didn't get to go this past summer so my heart is especially aching for a beach trip. Keep your fingers crossed for us!!

(There Jamie Kate...are you happy now?)

WHAT????

2009-01-20T08:52:00.000-08:00

A snow day? A real live snow day where they call school off??? Yippeee!
Yesterday was MLK day so we were home anyway...this is a treat. T's having a full fledge vacation. You know Jimmy took him to KY on Thurs. and it was 6 degrees Friday morning so we all just took a day off...Lucky kid.
Anyway, back to this morning. When I was a kid I remember waking up to total silence, no cars going by or sounds of delivery trucks...I would jump up and run for the window. SNOW! It was so sweet to hear my kids walking down the stairs this morning and hearing the excitement in their voices as they saw everything was totally white.
(Again, it's pretty pitiful, but we were thrilled with it!!)

This was the view out the front door.....And these are our sweet neighbors Nathan and John with the kids....
PS...the little one in the front is almost a full year older than Parker!!!!

Well, this has been fun... but I'm not going to shed any tears when I drop them off at school tomorrow!!

Snow Day!!!!

2009-01-19T13:35:00.000-08:00

Yeah!!! Finally some snow in East Tennessee! I mean it's pretty pitiful, but when you've gone without for so long...it doesn't take much to get you excited.
Notice we're playing mostly in the flower bed as it's the only place it's accumulating.

Yummy. Who needs needs ice cream???

UUggghhh. A mulch snow angel. I know....boys.

An angel by an angel. At least she moved into the grass.

But, it was still wet and cold!!!

T was all about some snow balls. And as soon as I snapped the picture, this one landed right in my face. He did not receive the reaction he hoped for!!!!

Aren't they precious? He nailed her right in the forehead as soon as he dropped his smile.

They love each other!!!!

Now they're praying it does this all night so we get another day off!!!!!!!

Well, the day started off pretty yucky (well checks at the doctor) and got considerably better!!!

Dancing with Cinderella....

2009-01-15T08:38:00.000-08:00

I don't think I've mentioned enough what a wonderful daddy my husband is. And to prove it, I'm showing you pictures of him doing ballet with his baby girl......

This picture would be so much sweeter if they looked at all alike. Ha, ha.

Now for the funny part.....

We start with a little stretching, not so easy for ole' dad.

Ha, I was cracking up when I saw her do this....she is making sure daddy is on his dot. It's very important to stay on your dot or you could bump into someone else and have an accident.

Sooooo sweet!! Brother was a little jealous he was missing this!

Isn't she precious. I'm sorry, I know I say it to much...I just can't help it.

Now here Jimmy is trying to tell Parker what to do. BIG mistake! She knows what to do, and doesn't at all appreciate being told by a BOY- how to do Her ballet! I didn't catch the shake off she put on him.

This is Parkers little friend Amelia. They're in the same class at school together too.

They're adorable together.

And I just noticed that Daddy put Parks tutu on upside-down....ooops!

Gotta get some daddy lovin'!

Perfect! Parker is very serious about this stuff. There's a little girl in the class who absolutely does not want to take ballet and every week she has fits and runs all around the room. (We can see from the lobby on a monitor.) Anyway, when the class first started Park would run after her and take her hand and lead her back to her dot. Now she just shakes her head and watches her.

On to some tapping.

She's pretty impressed with dads foot work!!

Then she wanted me to come out and do some steppin w/ her. Check out how serious she is. (How do you like the glare I'm puttin' off w/ my running shirt.......like I run.)

Ok.....mute the music (all the way @ the bottom) wipe away your tears...

and watch the Prima-Ballerina........

Miss Parker Elise Dunn:

I just had to put this next one on here. The girl to the right of Parker is Abby, or Lava girl as she fondly refers to her. (She says it's b/c she runs around all the time) Ms. Sheena is asking them what color dress they want to wear to the ball and Abby starts "misbehaving" so Park is giving her the eye!!! Soooo funny!

Just wanted to Thank my mom and dad soooooo much. They're the reason Parker has been able to be a ballerina!!! XOXO!

Suprise!!!!!

2009-01-15T05:47:00.001-08:00

Can you believe that after my rant last night I actually got up this morning and tried it again. AND IT WORKED?? I'm shocked. Looks like today's gonna be a good day!!
Jimmy took T to KY today to watch them drill so Park and I are having a "girl day". She wants to paint fingers and toes, make her hair blonder (not), put makeup on,and go to the mall to buy a new dress....in her princess nightgown. Oh, and I almost forgot.....eat lots of ice cream with chocolate bars.
I'm afraid there'll be no time for downloading pictures. But at least it's ready for me!! Yeah!
Hope your day is as good as mine's started!

Blog snob...

2009-01-14T19:43:00.001-08:00

It's official. I'm a blog snob. The site that supplies me with my "so cute" backgrounds is having trouble w/ its server. Meanwhile, I can't get any backgrounds to work except this companies. I've tried several different sites A MILLION different times and can't get it to work. Meanwhile we had Father Daughter day at dance class and I can't post the pictures b/c my space looks ghetto!!!!!! Like my old phone I'm having to carry b/c the McDonalds lady spilled a drink in my lap and ruined my new one. And did I mention that I also backed out of the garage and hit my mirror on the house and shattered it? What do you think? Maybe the Lord is testing me? It's all in how you handle it, right? Obviously I need some work in the handling department. "Jesus bring the rain." :) I'm learnin'!! Like these have been my biggest problems over the last year. Ha, ha. God's still just tryin' to get me where I need to be. But, I've always been a late bloomer, right Mom?
I just re-read this and it sound like I'm a little tipsy. I'm not I promise. Just a little....reflective. (Plus it's 11:30pm and I've been working on this blog for the last hour & 1/2....it may as well be 3am as far as I'm concerned!!)
Check with me later, I've quit being a snob about alot of other things lately. Maybe I can let go of this one too!!!!!

One more Christmas and a Birthday!!

2009-01-10T08:32:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas from Jake....poor thing, Jamie lives to torment this dog.
So the weekend after New Years it was finally time to finish up Christmas. My kids live quite a life in December. Their Christmas time starts in mid Dec. and finally comes to a close after the new year.

First we start the evening out with a little chili and coloring.
Then on to the festivities.....

Yes, Jesse got T a head lamp...like Survivor man. Actually I should thank Leslie, she bought Jesse one and he knew T would be jealous.
Jamie was a hit with the bionic trash can for the parents....suck up.

For those of you that know my precious husband you probably know about the great love he has for Joe Pa. Jess and Leslie were at Penn State and took a picture of the statue outside the stadium and had it framed. This is him after he wiped his tears away.

Outside to tryout the new outdoor lighting.

Now it's time for the Birthday Party...

Grandmommy had a birthday on the 28th (that I totally forgot about and didn't even call) so we celebrated with some cupcakes....Parker picked-out.

Some lovin' from the g-parents.

I was helping the kids w/ their gifts and didn't get many pictures of what they got, but this is one of Parks very favorites....a new TinkerBell nightgown. A little saucy for my baby girl, I think, but she adores it!!!

FINALLY, Christmas is over. Now let's get on with Valentines. Ha, Ha.

Ringin' in the New Year.....

2009-01-04T11:06:00.000-08:00

We started the evening with some new friends from church, the Brogan, and the Moore's and ended up with our old faithfuls....the Johnsons. (It's funny we've only been friends with them for about 5 monthes but it seems like most of our lives.....hmmm)
Anyway,
Here's Park hangin' with her little buddy, Elizabeth Grace. She is hilarious....I could fill up pages of funny stories about this child but it's to late and we have a 9am Chuckie Cheese date planned so I have to get to bed! I will say this, she is her mama's little girl. Ha.

T was AWESOME that night. He is watching the older girls play Wii bowling and giving them pointers.

This is Mr. Brogan....he slaved away in the kitchen making fresh waffles and chantilly cream for our 10pm breakfast. And oh how yummy they were!!!

This is me w/ Tracie Moore and Dee Dee Brogan. We had some kinda fun!!!! The men

were cooking and we were suckin' down Mimosa's and taking pictures of ourselves.

Tracie's husband Jack (whose back you see in the picture below..ha....is w/ the FBI

and will be a sniper for the inauguration of B.O....His father told him "Son, you're either

really good, or really bad. Ha ha)

T patiently waiting to play baseball. Did I mention how good he was that night?

When we left there we went to the Johnsons to drink some black champagne...don't ask,

and ring in the new year while watching car and motorcycle stunts in Vegas.... Just livin'

the dream we are!!! (I accidentally left my camera in the car, you'll have to take my word

for it, we had fun!)

The next day Mom, Dad, Jamie.............and the Johnsons, all came over to watch 14 hours of continuous football and eat the Cuban new year meal....red beans and rice w/ ham. (thanks mom)

Mr. Johnson, sleeping.

Again, praising the Lord for the DSL.

The kids were good here too, stayed upstairs most of the time, playing Orphan. Again,

don't ask. But occasionally they came down to love on the cutest baby girl in the South.

Mr. Johnson and Cooper J, sleeping.

Oh, so sweet those two.

Hutton sitting on Mr. Johnson, sleeping.

Precious little pink all ready for bed. What an exciting Holiday break we've had!!

Now let's go to bed.

Happy New Year

2008-12-31T09:31:00.000-08:00

From our family to yours!!!!

My sister sent me an email with well wishes for the new year.....I'm extending them to you all:

May peace break into your house and may thieves come to steal your debts. May the pockets of your jeans become a magnet of $100 bills. May love stick to your face like Vaseline and may laughter assault your lips! May your clothes smell of success like smoking tires and may happiness slap you across the face and may your tears be that of joy. May the problems you had forget your home address! In simple words . . . May 2009 be the best year of your life!!!

It's Christmas Time....

2008-12-28T16:42:00.000-08:00

It's finally here! I couldn't believe it, the kids slept until almost 8am. If Jimmy and I hadn't been sleeping at the foot of our bed getting knees to the face all night, we would've gotten a good nights sleep. Oh, well...you can't have it all!

Well, Santa did indeed come to see us.....

Yeah, the Pixos!!

See that huge Hershey bar on the left? That's all Parker cared about once she saw it. Seriously. I could've bought 5 of those and saved ALOT of money!!

Same for this one. He was most excited over $10 worth of $2 bills and coins. And 3 erasers that looked like money!

Daddy's showing him those coins...........T knew them just by looking at the guys faces!

See what I mean? Biggest grin of the day.

After we looked at Santa stuff I made breakfast while the kids made some pixos. They hadn't even mentioned the gifts under the tree. They did remember however, when I sat down their plates and told them they HAD to eat something other than candy.

Okay, I have to set up these next few. Park got a robe, a princess robe. So she immediately startes ripping off her clothes to get it on.....

.....because she didn't realize it could go over her pj's. Ha!!

T got the Mario game he's been bugging me about since this summer.

And an aqua globe.....it takes all the work out of having plants. (He got a little crazy about infomercials this summer!)

Princess getting More princess stuff.

T got a grabity grab game from some friends of ours.....he's crazy about those too!

Finally time to sit and take it easy....how do ya like those white socks and black shoes w/ the night gown? She's so fashionable!!!

Christmas: Round 2

On the way to Nashville.....

Prais the Lord for the hand held games!!!!

When we got there we visited and ate brunch, T finally just laid down to go to sleep if there were no presents....

T & Great Grandaddy

My Uncle Jeff sent Taylor the most precious gift. He gave him a wooden bank he got when he was 11 with a 1921 silver dollar in it that belonged to his grandfather and some other coins ......AND, Taylor finally got that Ben Franklin! That was such a special treat for everyone to watch! (Park got a Ben Franklin too, she told me she wanted to buy another big choclate bar!)

Jansen decorating Taylor....bless his heart!

I came in the room and Park was telling Aunt Jana, well, everything she knew!

Then it was off to Nanas house.....

Here's Taylor and Park with their Cousin Hannah, in her bunk bed. We hardly saw them the rest of the night.

Jesse played us some really nice background music....I hadn't heard him play in years!
Jamie enjoyed it a little too much.

Yipeee Fancy Nancy!

Then Taylor passed out in the truck.

Of course Parker was too, but how many times have you seen that?

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

Christmas Eve...

2008-12-25T09:10:00.000-08:00

The day started with another Johnson... TRADITION. We were invited to join their family at the Hyatt for brunch. Those poor people working that day. They thought it was going to be a totally dead day and then....Suprise! Of course if they've been there for any time in the last 31 years, they'd know the Johnsons would be there. It's just that the party keeps getting bigger, and so do the kids!

As soon as we got there T had to get his hands on Baby Hutton:

And she thought this was just as good a place as any to lay back and chill. Ugh, so stinkin' cute!

Parker's showing Reagan her new Princess computer. Aren't they precious?

A few pics of All these kids.......then time to ride the elevator!!!!

Mr. Dunn's just ready for some food. Fellowship after!

This little rat had been making a funny face for me.....this is her looking at me like I'm a fool making the face back at her!

Parker really concentrating on her coloring page. Praise the Lord!!!

T took the camer to get some candids of everyone.....Cooper J was not diggin' it.

And here's Reagan and T playing under the table.... oh well, it could be worse.

My sweet babies.

Poor Park, she has the hardest time keeping those eyes open during the flash!

The Mommys!!

Fun times.

Then we made a quick trip to the store and off to church!! The service was beautiful! Parkers sweet little voice, so excited she knew the songs we were singing. And T took his very first Lords Supper. (I thought it was inappropriate to take the camera in for that!) Then at the end, everyone was given a candle when we went in the sanctuary and the flame from the advent candle was spread throughout the congregation. It was awesome!

On the way home we looked at some lights b/4 a torrential downpour set in. Merry Christmas East Tennessee.

Once we were home we settled into our traditions.....

At 8pm we turn on "A Christmas Story" and we watch it until 8pm the next day.

The kids fell asleep in our bed and Santa got to work.Here's Taylors loot. We decided to stop letting Santa take the credit for all the gifts so we laid out a few and made sure they knew all the good stuff was from Mom and Dad!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Parkers........

Our pittyful tree that I never did finish decorating....

And here's our magical Elf on the Shelf, El"f"is...after Elvis. He's been reporting back to Santa everynight as to wether the kids have been bad or good. He must not have been telling Santa the truth b/c they still got their gifts!!!! Anyway, this is his final stop, in the tree to watch them open presents. Tonight he'll go back to the NOrth Pole until next year.

"It's the most wonderful time....of the year!"

2008-12-24T20:39:00.000-08:00

It's time for a pajama party!!! My sweet friend Karen has a neighborhood party every year where the kids wear their pj's, get to visit w/ Santa and eat enough sugar to go into a diabetic coma. She allowed outsiders this year, lucky for us and the Johnsons! We had so much fun!!

On the way...and so excited we don't usually get to go inside when we go out w/ pj's on!

First stop...the Cosey house to eat some pizza. And try to let these crazy kids get their sillies out.....

After we got to the party Mrs. Sapp had all the kids sit on the stairs and in came Santa!!

Hutton Button in her Mama's favorite kind of picture.....a crying baby w/ Santa.

Then the kids all sat around while Mr. Sapp read the Christmas story and then we got to visit w/ the Big Guy!

I think this is one of the 4 pictures I'm actually in with the kids!!!!!!!!!

Here's Johnson Party of Seven. I forget how many there are of them. They're almost NEVER together at the same time!

Ole' St. Nick was Chillin' like a Villin....

Thank goodness for the Sapps basement. I only went down there a couple of times, it was pretty crazy!

Then it started getting a little crazy upstairs! I think we had too much hot chocolate and cookies.

Here's Mr. Sapp telling Santa what he wants for Christmas. Poor thing, he doesn't even realize that the money he gave Santa wasn't for reigndeer kibble.

Then it was time to go. When Mr. Johnson starts balancing cups on Hutt's head, he's done.

So much fun was had by all. A BIG thanks to the Sapps for having us!!!

Milk Shakes & Christmas lights!!!

2008-12-23T18:25:00.001-08:00

Our dear friends, the Johnsons (Polka Dot & her family), are all about some TRADITION. So this year we thought it would be fun to do milkshakes and Christmas lights. You put the kids to bed then go in and yell "SUPRISE". Then you jump in the car and take a ride. Ideally though, you do it really early. Mr. Dunn had a meeting until 8:45 so it was 9:15 b/4 we got started. This is where are exciting evening takes a sad turn. By the time we got our milkshakes and headed off on the light hunt.......the kids were both asleep. And that my friends is the definition of anti-climactic!!!!
Oh well, Maybe next year. Here are some of the photos I snapped b/4 my camera battery died. AGAIN.

"You better watch out, you better not cry!!"

2008-12-22T14:07:00.001-08:00

Well, technology has failed me. I was going to scan in a picture of Parkers very first Santa visit... instead I'll try to give it to you in the literary sense. We went to this childrens boutique here in Knoxville called Crenshaws, they had Santa and Mrs. Claws with beatiful decorations and they gave you a picture for FREE. So we waited in a very lengthy line...a 3 year old and a 10 month old, and finally made it!!!! And as soon as sweet Mrs. Claws reached for Parker, the wailing began. Poor T didn't know what to do so he just sat there looking shell shocked. Looking back now it's a funny picture to have, not so much at the time!
So needless to say I still get nervous when we make these trips. I was pleasently suprised this time though. They had perfectly prepared what they would say to him and even rehearsed the grins. It was actually pretty painless!

Waiting, waiting, waiting......

Yipee, we're almost there!!!!

Finally!

Little Park was precious. She climbed right up there and told that old Santa exactly what she wanted. Some pixos! Done. Then she got down but had to run back over and whisper...."please." So sweet!

Then super cool T hops up and tells him to really listen b/c this is very important. He wants money. All the differents types of coins and bills. And a real cash register to keep it in. Wish I could say done for that one too. We'll do what we can. Good ole' Papa helped us out with the Ulysses S. Grant. ($50)

And here it is folks.......

Both kids smiling and looking in the right direction. No fingers in noses or panties showing, just a nice little picture. AAhhhhhhhh.

I'm going to collect all my pics of her like this and make a collage. She passed out on the way home. To much anticipation!

A visit from Old St. Who?

2008-12-20T12:07:00.000-08:00

Is there anything more exciting in Kindergarten than the Christmas party? Well, actually there is. The anticipation of the fieldtrip to see the Nutcracker was pretty intense, only to be extinguished by the actual ballet. But that's another post. Anyway, it was a super fun day in Mrs. "Primes" class. She's a smart one, that little lady, she let the kids open their presents FIRST! Wonder what it is.....

Oh my goodness, it's our very first First Reader Book, and of course some candy!!

Okay, this picture is absolutely precious, and inappropriate. Mrs. P was reading a story about...what was it DAJ, a crippled lamb? Anyway, I looked down and Mimi Kate and T are totally holding hands during the story... they're only 6!

Then we had a kickin' breakfast of chicken mini's and just a tad of fruit. Yummy Yummy.

And now for the visit...Who needs Santa when Jesse's here!!!

I wish I'd had a video on those kids when he walked in. They were speechless. They all just stared at him and got all shy. It was adorable. And Mimi Kate took the cake. She jumped right out of her seat and ran across the room all frazzled. It was precious.

Mrs. P had to grab her some love b/4 the kids came out of their comas.

Once he got on the floor w/ them it was all over. They were chatting him up like the hero he

is. He got all kinds of information, some of it a little creepy, but all w/ good intentions. Ha!

I need to set this picture up...we got Mrs. P a gift tree from the class. It had an ornament from each child and a gift card or cash w/ it. T saw a $20 and was telling Jess all kinds of facts about Andrew Jackson. And then he asked Mrs. P if she might want to give it to him. She did not. ha

See I told you they warmed up!! They were sooooo happy to have him there and he was incredibly sweet to come and spend some time w/ them.

Ok, now it's time to decorate some cookies. And eat some candy.

Beautiful! And tasty!

Look at these handsome boys!!

Mrs. Prine had to get in on that action! She is so precious. She just loves them despite the fact that they're boys!!

This is the only time the kids sat still and quiet..... and that was b/c they were playing quiet game. It was so nice!

Finally we took a trip on the Polar Express. See what I mean, those Kindergarteners sure know how to party!!!!!

P.S. This is why I love CAK.
(As I've said b/4, go to the bottom and mute this beautiful song so you can hear this)

Christmas Parties....My favorite!

2008-12-18T19:17:00.000-08:00

I know I've said it before but I LOVE going to my kids schools...especially on party days. They are so excited to have me there and they're soooo well behaved. I actually get to enjoy them instead of discipline them!!!
Parks class always comes in and does a show for us first. This is my sweet girl waiting to sing.
And here's the show...reminder: you'll want to go all the way to the bottom and mute the music. (Although I'd wait til this song is over b/c it's so wonderful!)

Funny story, that kid next to her that is almost at her shoulder, well he's 5 days older than her. And it's buggin' her to death in the song that he's not singing it right or ringing his bells!!!!

Here's little MIss Muffet waiting patiently for her snack.

A little candle light Happy Birthday Jesus song.

Finally getting to sink her teeth into that cookie she's been staring at. You all know how Park hates sweet things. HA HA!

There was even live entertainment while they dined on cookies, pretzels, fritos and juice boxes. Mrs. Sally's kids Brandon and Samantha came in and played some Christmas carols.

Here's Park with the sweetest teachers ever, Mrs. Sally and Mrs. Ann. They are precious! Both of our kids were very blessed this year with their teachers. Just wait til you see precious Mrs. Prine tomorrow w/ Taylor!!

And finally Park w/ her friend Christina waiting to go to recess. You should see these 2 prim & propper little ones when they hit the obstacle course. They put those boys right to shame!!

I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas....

2008-12-16T17:38:00.001-08:00

Okay, so it wasn't technically Christmas for all, but it was Christmas for us. In West Virginia that is. We went to celebrate with the Dunns last weekend and were blessed with a bit a snow. Almost all the way through Kentucky and into WV.

This is the view from the car. It was beautiful. And I don't think little Park had ever seen this much snow. She's seen the typical East TN snow that's melted b4 noon but this was something else!! She kept yelling "look out my window guys!!" Like only she could see it and was afraid we'd miss it.

Even T was glued to the sights.

So then we got to Mama and Papa's house and it was a winter wonderland. Of course it was after 9pm by the time we got there.....not exactly prime play time, but first thing in the morning they were ready to go!!

For those of you who will be recieving a card from us.....here's the preview of it. And it might be a happy New Year card at the rate I'm going.

Getting their snow feet on. It was so funny watching them. T was all about some snow angels, while Park didn't want to commit to getting that cold and wet. (I'll explain later why I have no snow angel pictures.)

Here we go on our first sledding adventure. Park took right to it. She laughed and screamed all the way down the hill. Papa looked like he enjoyed shoving the kids a little too much!! Ha.

Taylor before......

And Taylor after. Notice my shadow as I'm taking pictures and not at all trying to help! OOps.

Enough of that. Let's ride the 4wheeler through the woods.....

And that's the end of my story. My camera died and apparently it's as picky as me. It only took the designer batteries which we didn't happen to have. Typical. Hopefully Aunt Carla will hook us up w/ some pictures of later in the weekend. It was a wonderful, restful, white (early) Christmas!!!!

Hope all of you are enjoying your Holiday Season as much as we are!!

A Day of Thanks!

2008-12-06T05:47:00.001-08:00

After a semi hectic morning of packing up green beans, cinnamon apples and cookies... and anything else we could fit in the truck, we left.

Off to Nashville to see Aunt Jana and the boys!

Parker brought as many girlie things as she could hold since this is a 100% boy zone.

And, of course, Taylor brought money.

We finally got there and after a little catching up,

The the big exciting moment.......

The arrival of 2nd Lt. Cragwall!!!!!

It was sooooo good to see him and hug him!!!!!
Now it's time to eat.......

and most important... watch some football!

Little lovin' from the Cragwall dog- Jake.

Who cares about Detroit??? Let's jump on the trampoline!!!

Here's Jansen w/ the kids... all the boys were outside for a little moonlight basketball.

The next night we stopped by to see great-grandaddy, who was under the weather. But felt much better after some love from the dunn kids!

AAAHHHHHH, finally some peace and quiet!!!

Saturday was somemore family time:

Jamie's tricks.

Park couldn't take anymore...she just passed out on grandmommy.And finally, Jesse and T talking politics and world currency. Oh, and by the way...Joshua is lactose intollerant. (Don't ask)

Making Cookies!

2008-11-26T17:17:00.000-08:00

We all know that I don't cook. So my contribution to Thanksgiving dinner is usually some chips and dip to snack on and desserts. Who can't heat up some cookie dough? This year we decided to get fancy, some moms from T's class were talking about these cute little cookies so I thought "what the heck!"Here we have a pilgrim hat and a turkey....

Obviously the kids ate more than they produced...expected. And, they didn't exactly follow the prototype.

I know, I know. "That's what makes them precious." Luckily they got bored and went to destroy the house so I got to make some the right way!!!!

I can't wait 'til tomorrow!!! I love Thanksgiving. No buying presents and wrapping....blah, blah, blah. Just a whole lot of eating!! And huggin' on my baby brother!!!

(ps...eat your heart out Kat! I'm on the ball and you're still stuck in September!!!)

A second Thanksgiving feast....

2008-11-25T16:50:00.000-08:00

Well, this was quite a day. The kindergarten Thanksgiving Feast is something to behold!

The day started with nice little story from the most precious teacher in the world...Mrs. Prine. (or as T calls her "Mrs. Primes)

Then they went outside to blow off some steam.

Back inside we're waiting to get dressed. Anyone for a little Indians and Pilgrims?

Here's the "old married couple" being silly in the hall. They're together so much they bicker worse than a couple of 80 year olds!!

Yum yum!! Turkey with all the fixin's and we get to play dress up too!! This rocks!

Of course all T ate was the turkey and dessert! Besides, it's to exciting to eat....we had a big audience. Today was also grandparents day so they were stopping by too.

Saying Thank You for such a wonderful day!!

Little Park sitting with Mama waiting for the Indian show to start.

The kids did some songs and poems, they had one that they used tom-toms. It was adorable!! Since I'm so computer savy, I'll show it to you...

(You'll want to go to the bottom and pause the music to hear this... it's in the top left corner)

I did it!!! Didn't even have to call grandaddy!

Two little Indinas (T & Mimi) sittin' in a wagon....Jill and I used it to bring in all the goodies!

Daddy and Mama catching up w/ Mrs. "Primes".

A little cutting up with the boys...T, Carson and Blaine.

A fun time was had by all!!! Can't wait til next year!

A Thanksgiving Feast...

2008-11-24T14:04:00.001-08:00

Today I got the pleasure of joining in on the Thanksgiving feast in Ms. Sally's class. And one Parker Dunn was feelin' like a rock star!! (I do alot in T's class and she gets a little bummed but today was her day!!)

First a little song about an acorn from 10little Indians.Then we feasted on turkey rolls, cornbread muffins, and pumpkin pie. Yum Yum!!

Don't ya just want to eat her up and lick your fingers???

She's got a great little class and we had a wonderful time!! I can't wait to get her to CAK where they'll let me come hang out all the time!!! (I love to be around my kids at school, they actually mind their teachers!!)

Just a quick praise...

2008-11-23T17:05:00.000-08:00

I got a phone call today some time after 1pm. When I looked at my phone it simply said "Jesse".
He was calling to tell me he was home! That's my praise, he's home, he's safe. I remembered this morning on my way to church and just felt enormously blessed, as there have been thousands of families not able to celebrate this day. So, no pictures today, but on Thanksgiving day when I suprise T and Park with his attendance....I'll have plenty.

I know, I know, sniff sniff...it's not usually my thing to be like this. I made an exception!

I'm on a roll...

2008-11-20T15:36:00.000-08:00

Two days in a row....
Things have been a little tense for the Dunns these days so we decided to bake some cookies and head off to the park after we picked T up from school. Besides being a bit nippy, it was a really nice day. The kids played in the sand and did the slides and swings, all in about 10 minutes. Then they headed over to the lake. You know how everyone has a happy place? Like Phoebes baaabbbliinngg broookkke (sorry to those of you who aren't obsessed w/ "Friends"). Well, for my kids it's outside... and the closer to mud, rocks and water the better. They threw rocks in and had sticks stirring the water. No fighting, no yelling....just laughing and quiet.

Until... Parker found this cool rock that Taylor HAD to have. He negotiated as best he could but it didn't work. Finally, he told her he was going to throw a rock at her! Didn't faze her. Then he found a couple of pennys in his pocket so she traded. Wish I had a video of that conversation!
PS, I just got a phone call that Jesse is OUT OF BAGHDAD!!!!!! He's on his way to Kuwait and then home!!

It figures!!

2008-11-19T17:17:00.001-08:00

Just when I'm about to put the little devils up on Ebay they sit still for a minute and look like this. And I'm brainwashed, yet again, into thinking they're precious angels that I want to keep little forever.

Then they get up and... well you know what happens...

Random suff...

2008-11-14T18:15:00.001-08:00

So here's the beautiful tree in my front yard. I have these black rocking chairs on the porch beside my kitchen that I never use. It's a lovely little spot out there, but still, never use it. Until....my tree turns. Every year when I notice it's fully changed I mosey outside and sit in one of my chairs and just look at it. Today was that day. It was also the day that the tv in my bedroom went out, our refrigerator broke and it took me 5 minutes to get the garage door to come up. So I really needed those rocking chairs and that tree.

And finally here's a picture of Park playing leap frog through the house in her panties and her boots (and of course her bow). A little comic relief for the day.

I'm back!!

2008-11-12T14:31:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm back. Took a small vacation from the blog. I've got a job you know, I can't just sit here on this thing all day. Ha!
Let me fill you in on the last several days. Where shall I start? Hmmmmm. Well, last weekend Jimmy took the kids to West Virginia to see his grandparents for their 70th wedding anniversary. (Isn't that amazing?) Funny story, while they were there they never brushed their teeth, took a bath, or changed their underwear. (Lord, please don't take me before my kids learn to take care of themselves!!!) They were pretty disgusting when they came home!! But after not seeing them for a few days I didn't mind! While they were gone I had dinner w/ some friends I hadn't seen in a long time....then stopped at polka dots for a night cap....and some halloween candy! The next day was set aside for painting. Parker needed a pink room. And a bigger room w/ it's own bathroom. So me, my sister, polka dot and my neighbor Jeanine were going to paint. But before we could get started I had to make a memory........

This is the paint I dropped while opening the door. I know, put the can down first, don't balance it on your leg. Lesson learned! At least J wasn't smug about it!!
We finally finished it....on Tuesday. Yes, I did have 4 of us on Saturday but none of us could paint so Jimmy had to fix it when he came home. I'll put some pics on as soon as I get everything hung up.

Jimmy Dunn had a birthday on Monday. I can't believe I didn't take even 1 picture. But it happened, like it or not.....

Then there was Veterans Day this week. T got to dress patriotic and even made a hat in honor of Jesse. Who by the way should be home in the next 2 weeks!!!!!!! YEAH!

Today we had the Johnson girls, Mimi "Rodriguez" and "Ronald" Reagan, as Mr. Dunn fondly refers to them....Here's T pondering which one should be his girlfriend today. (My vote as always is Mimi, only b/c Reagan already has 3 boys in her pocket!)

And here's the gang. Don't they look precious.

This was taken right before they found the dog crap that was left at the bottom of the slide.

Thanks.......

Happy Halloween!!

2008-11-01T08:16:00.000-07:00

It's finally here!! Halloween! Park woke up at 5:30 (AM) and asked if it was time to go. "It's dark outside though?" Well, we waited all day it was FINALLY time to get dressed.

So, what do ya think? It took Rainbow Skeleton 2 years to make his debut. Last year T had a dream about a skeleton that was rainbow colored and here he is!! And how can you miss the Beautiful Cinderella...or Parkerella as I was calling her, it made her mad though.

When I was a kid you got dressed, did your neighborhood, came home and ate all your candy. (well, what was left after my parents took out their favorite stuff!) These days, there's a whole schedule you have to keep.
Stop #1 Auntie Jamies office........

Oh dear, Aunt Jamies a little knocked up! Just for today though. Apparently all the girls who work in her office end up that way eventually! And I believe it b/c there were about 8 little bitty ones in there when we came in.....bless their hearts, they were not McLovin' Rainbow Skeleton!!

On to our next stop....Parkers dance studio. Only mommy left the camera in the car. Oops! Fun times though. They had a haunted house in one studio and games and crafts in the other. Best of all was the decorate your own cupcake table!!!

On the way home from the first 2 stops Park took a power nap!!

Then she came home and stripped b/c she thought we were done. She got a bit testy when I told her to get dressed again we had more to do!! She cheered up when a fairygodmother and an army dog showed up later!!

Rainbow lovin' on Mom!! Such a sweetie!

There's that Fairygodmother and Sgt. Jake!! Sooooo Cute!!!!!

A little run through the neighborhood and then it was time to make it to our final stop............

THE JOHNSON FAMILY HAYRIDE!! They do it up too! Thanks for having us guys it was a top 10 event!!

T and a Cheetah Girl...Oh, my bad, that's Reagan Johnson!! Look at those sweet little faces.

And not such a sweet face. Cooper J decided to spice up the football player Taylor Dunn style!

Cheetah girl #2 Mimi Kate ..... and a pretty princess.

And I can't forget that precious pumpkin (literally) Hutton Button!! That's Park's costume from her 1st year. Glad it got a second go around though!! It was actually her back-up...she did not like the first option...wish I had a picture of it!!!!!!

Well, there you have it folks. Another year down. Actually we have our Fall Festival in about 30 minutes so I gotta do it all again!!!

It's the Great Pumpkin!!!

2008-10-31T07:57:00.001-07:00

You know how sometimes you try to do things for your kids that you KNOW they're going to love....but they end up being complete misery for you? Well, let me tell you a story about a BIG pumpkin.
You all know of Taylors love of pumpkins. Why, just last year he planted some pumpkin seeds on the side of our house that ended up being a 12-13ft long pumpkin vine, and actually grew about 8 pumpkins! So anyway, my sweet husband came across a man in Kentucky that grows giant pumpkins for the "Wooly Worm Festival" (stop laughing, I'm serious.) and so he got his good son one of these pumpkins. After 2 tries, you see the pumpkins are so big that when you try to load them they bust. By the way, these things weigh in the 200lb. area. So, after busting a couple in the trusty ole' 4Runner, he was on his way. Things were going smooth.....until the great pumpkin fell over. OOps! The 4Runner will never smell the same! Anyway, he got it home, damaged, but enough for T to get the effect. Here he is with "his" great pumpkin!!

He's also putting in a little plug for the Fall Festival at church. Just doin' his part!

And now the story takes a sad twist. Once we got it out of the truck we set it by the garage outside. And it rained. So about 40 gallons of water collected in it and it rotted. These are the photos of the Dad who tried to do something nice for his son by getting him a GIANT pumpkin!

UUUUUUGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHH!!
@#!*!@#&%!!!!!!!!!

Watching Daddy!

Park playing Soccer in a dress, of course...watching daddy.
Finally got bored watching daddy so went to play in the backyard w/ Leah and Luke!

The moral of this story.......... Alway keep in mind when you're trying to make your children happy....it may have an adverse effect of you!

Just Another Day in Paradise!

2008-10-23T16:47:00.000-07:00

I hope you guys love this first song as much as I do. I've always loved it, even before I had kids. Only now, it's actually my life....except that my sweet husband could never fix the washing machine!!!
"I ask the Lord, every night, for just another day in paradise......"

Bye, Bye Football...

2008-10-23T16:15:00.000-07:00

Well, it's finally here. The last football game. We started this season assuming it would be like our first soccer season..... les miserables. (private family joke...Carla I know you're cracking up right now!) But we were pleasantly suprised. Taylor actually liked it...and wasn't too bad either. Not a Heisman candidate just yet, but we've got some time to work on it!!!
Park giving dad a little pre-game lovin'! Precious!!!

The warm-up.

Park showing off the super cute overall's that Polka Dot handed down to her ...they were ML's I assume! Haha!

It's finally here!!!!!! Taylor's very first trophy....it's been our motivation all season, "get the trophy...oh, right get the flags first!"

Precious picture #2!!

I'd like to conclude this evening with a picture of Park throwing her very first all out tantrum. Polka Dot gave her some night gowns of the twins today...I didn't notice until we got home that they were EXACTLY the same. So after the game she wanted to put one on. Not the one I had in my hand though, the other one. That's EXACTLY the same. I refused to change her so this was her reaction...................

This is Park after she got the "right" nightgown on........only it's actually the one she had on before! The joke's on her!!! Ha,ha!!

The mice will play while the Cat is cleaning house!!

2008-10-13T13:12:00.000-07:00

There's always a price to pay when you do housework while the kids are home. It's just something mom's have to deal with. And with my kids the price is great.
Today I mourn the loss of a great many feminine hygiene products. Look closely and you'll see the "casts" on Parks' "broken arms" and it's pretty obvious by T's mouth (I never thought of that before...must remember!) Also the "mad scientist" sticks in his hand. Oh, well, it could have been worse!

Clearly Parker's not ready....

2008-10-12T15:39:00.001-07:00

FOR MAKE-UP!!!! Taylor had some money and wanted to go to Walgreens and look at the Halloween stuff. You know, that's his favorite "holiday"!! Anyway, he picked out a nice little toy and so of course sis had to get something too. She picked out some princess make-up. Yeah, I love that stuff!! NOT.

What's that, you want to see Taylors nice little toy.....sure. Here it is....

I worry about my child sometimes.

Guess who's coming for dinner??

2008-10-10T16:17:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving dinner that is.......you guessed it, 2nd Lt. Jesse Cragwall is coming home early!!!!!!Yipee! Not sure when exactly but fingers crossed it'll be by Thanksgiving. What a thing to be thankful for. I'm reminded on a daily basis of God's provision in our lives, this was just a little something extra! Like a treat!! He wasn't supposed to be home until January, so this really is a blessing!! I'll keep you posted as soon as I find out more.

Also, on a different note....my little football player had the game of his life last night!! 2 flags pulled and.......A TOUCHDOWN!!!! It was so much fun to watch T having fun and trying his very best to "do" his best!! I can't wait til next week! Coach was as pumped as the kids were!! Now he's thinking strategy........uh,oh Colts, you better watch you're back.....this could get ugly!

GO JAGUARS!!!!!!

2008-10-06T16:36:00.001-07:00

Taylor has finally found his "thing". Defense! He is all about pulling some flags! Enjoy the action shots... courtesy of Polka Dot (Jill Johnson) who brought her party of seven to cheer for "her Taylor".

#8 throwing a block for his QB Ben. Can't wait to put on the pads!!!

Sorry man, I saw my #1 fan Ms. Jill and lost my focus. Pulled my own man's flag. Ugh!

You! Yeah, You. You're Mine!!! (It's all in his eyes! He doesn't even have to say it!)

Can't leave out a picture of sweet baby sis cheering on big brother!!

I get by with a little help from my dad. Yeah, I get by with a little help from my dad!

This next picture is here for 2 reasons. A) because it's funny, and B) because I know it'll drive my friend Kat crazy!

Baby Baker popped poor Baby Hutton right in the face. And even though she's crying as hard as she can....her mean ole momma continues to snap the photos. But what's really funny is that Baker looks like a drunk old man! (Sorry Kat)

Back to business!!

Next to pulling flags, snack time is the best part! Especially when it's with my buddy Mason.

A little "qt" with the girlfriend, Mimi Kate. Gotta make sure she caught all my moves!

Sorry T, she looks unimpressed. But you know she still loves ya!

Ahh, the family picture. So easy to take and they always turn out so well. Don't you think. HA!

Aunt Jamie and Grandmommy came by and joined in the fun!!!!

Way to go guys! Good game!

Baby Buttons...

2008-10-02T14:36:00.001-07:00

I just had to put these pics on here... this is my friend Jill's baby girl Hutton. She, by all accounts, shouldn't be here; but she is! She's the miracle baby I've told ALL of you about.
And look how beautiful she is. I did not have the luxury of beautiful babies...don't get me wrong, mine are most adorable now, but it took us awhile to get here!
Anyway, I just wanted to show you my little baby doll. As her mommy would say "she is so stinkin' cute!"

Ballerina Friends...

2008-09-29T14:21:00.000-07:00

Isn't that a beautiful picture?? And I took it!! Watch out Polka Dot we may have rival photo studios coming soon.....

So last week was bring a friend day at dance class so Park asked her friend Mattie to skip school and go to dance class with her. They had the BEST time!! Here are the girls on the way:

Precious!!!!!

This is Miss Paige and Miss Sheena with the future prima

ballerina!!

Where do I begin??

2008-09-27T16:29:00.000-07:00

Man, this month has just passed me by. I've been getting harrassment from not updating in so long. I didn't think anyone actually looked at this thing...now it's pressure! Well, I'm sorry it's been so long. I've had a computer gliche and Mr. Fix-It (aka my daddy) had to come work his magic....and he did. So I'm back in business!

Just a quick update on some things we've done this month....

Parker took a nap. That's monumental, she hasn't done that since she was one. I mean 15 minutes in the truck while we're waiting to pick-up brother doesn't count. This was a real, sure enough, 2 hour nap...sitting straight up while wearing a dress and a bow. She is a priss!!

And this is the priss's 2nd first day of school. The new school was not doin' it for Park. One day she came home and said "I'm all done Wiss Gennies class, I want to go back to church." I felt like 3 was too young to teach a life lesson so I said okay. So here she is on her first day in Wiss Sally's class. I don't think she's gonna want to go anywhere after she met this one. She's a gem!!!

Such a handsome kid!!!!

Taylors friend Mason had his b-day party at the bowling alley...cosmic bowling! Super fun!

Okay, it's late and I'm recovering my kitchen chairs.......FINALLY, YEAH!!! and I've been standing up this whole time. I've got more but you'll have to stay tuned!!!

What a weekend...

2008-09-02T13:47:00.000-07:00

This is going to take awhile so get comfy and enjoy the photos...

It all started with the kick-off of CAK football, our first home game. And the first of many, I hope, Cosey-Dunn-Johnson-Sapp tailgate parties. Yes, I realize we're tailgating at the high school games and we only have Kindergarteners but, why not start early? We had the best time.
My sweet friend Jill supplied the pictures, I honestly think she loves my Taylor (almost) as much as I do. And I'm sure she understands him more!! Ha. Thanks girl!!

Look at that face...how could you not love him?

A Big Bunch of Trouble!! Reagan, Parker, Collin, Park, Mimi (she watches out for Taylor) and T

An older version of Big Bunch of Trouble...plus one little one! Kat Cosey, Karen Sapp, Me & Park, The Warrior and Jill Johnson or as I call her "Mother of the year"! She's actually got me cooking...sort of.

Saturday we celebrated my dad's birthday...with a SpongeBob cake and a WebCam visit with Jesse in Iraq. It was so good to see his face, only it looked very tired being that it was 2a.m. for him. And he was wearing a Michigan t-shirt...whatever. Still it was a blessing for us to see him and for him to see all of us. I wish I had set up a camera to get a pic of all of us crammed in so he could see us!

Then there was the trip to the lake...Taylor and Mason had a great day in Sunday School so as a reward we all went to the lake. I wish they'd be good more often, I had as much fun as they did!!

Here we go........................................

We found this great little island and the kids got out and played and ran and screamed and found a frog and a dead fish... pictured here with Taylor D., Mason, and Taylor C.

Taylor did a little treasure hunting on his own and came back with a Mountain Dew bottle, a corn cobb, some shells and some kind of huge nut. At least he cleaned up a little!

AND...............................

Last but not least, Labor Day kicked off the first day of flag football. We went to the pool earlier in the day, bad idea, and Taylor ended up falling asleep before practice. He had a bit of a time getting into the groove but once he did he had a great time!! He's on a team with his BFF Mason and his dad Tony and Jimmy are coaching together so it'll be fun!

Ready on defense!!!!!

No way anyone's getting past the kid in the red.
Looks like he might be a linebacker......

This is what the baby sisters do..... when they're not running onto the field to talk to daddy.
Huddle up guys... GO JAGUARS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

P.S. Go VOLS......... Ouch, that UCLA loss had to hurt!

Ahhh, routines....

2008-08-25T17:11:00.000-07:00

Things have started to become routine, finally! Taylor's adjusting to Kindergarten. Today was his first day NOT to lose ANY lights!!! Mrs. Prine has them on a stop light system...one warning you lose your green, 2nd one you lose your yellow and some recess time I think, and 3rd one you lose your red and go see....the Principal!!! Yikes. Luckily we haven't lost red, yet. We celebrated with a trip to Maggie Moo's!! Our Favorite.

I wish I had taken my camera. They looked like they had ice cream poured over their heads rather than scooped into a cup!

Park is doing GREAT at her school. They give me an update sheet everyday on how she's done and everyday it says she was cooperative and happy, she loves school, is very outgoing and plays well with the other children. (When I read it to her she goes,"And Pretty?" Yes, she's my child)

By the way, she's brusing her teeth here...with a bow, of course!

I have one more thing to share.........

Park just got her Big Girl Bed and tonight as I walked out of her room I saw her little head in that big bed and got a little sad remembering how tiny her head looked in that big ole crib... sniff sniff.

Ballerina Girl...

2008-08-19T08:34:00.001-07:00

First day of dance!!!

Parker had so much fun. I knew she'd love it but I had no idea how much!

These lessons are a gift from Mama and Papa. We are so blessed to have them and so thankful for their gift. Also, the dance attire, was a gift from Grandmommy & Grandaddy!! XOXO Everyone has been so wonderful to us during our... testing, as we like to call it!!! Ha!

Taylor starts flag football next week. Stay tuned for that!!

Here goes Park!!

2008-08-18T06:35:00.001-07:00

Boy was this gal ready for today. And when I told her she didn't have to take a nap there....well, life just got a whole lot better. Please forgive me that there are so many pics of Park this day and only one of Taylor. Things were a bit more uptight for the first day of Kindergarten. At Parkers school I even got to park in the lot!!!!

She didn't even care if I walked her in!!!! She's getting too big, too fast! This is Miss Gennie. She is soooo sweet! This class has 7 boys and 3 girls...yikes! She is terribly lucky that Parker is one of those girls! (Not only because she's so wonderful, but b/c she can hold her own with any boy that gets in her way!!)

First Day!!

2008-08-14T07:01:00.001-07:00

How handsome is this kid?? Well, it's finally here, the first day of Kindergarten. Taylor was so cool this morning. Nerves of Steal! We were running late (of course) so I was trying as hard as I could to make everyone frantic, as usual. But we made it.

They had a tent outside the school called Coffee and Kleenex. For me, coffee yes, kleenex.....no need. It was nice to visit w/ the moms for a bit though. Here's Parker handing out Kleenex.When we finally left Park said "Where's Taylor?" "In his class honey." "Are we just gonna leave him here?" "That's the plan sister!!"

Gotta go, I'm already kissing up to the teacher and bringing her lunch! Ha!!

Kindergarten Here We Come...

2008-08-13T09:09:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a fun day. We got with some of our very best friends to celebrate the upcoming year. The kids had a blast (so did the mommy's)!!

MONKEYS!!!!!!!!

Yes, that's Park swinging ALL BY HERSELF!!

It's a good thing these guys aren't all in the same class!! Kyla Lee, you are one LUCKY little girl!!

One more day...... Taylor is so excited about tomarrow.

They clean up pretty good hu?

2008-08-10T11:16:00.001-07:00

For those of you who frequent my house and usually see my children in the buff, I just wanted to show you they do have clothes. And like I said, they clean up good!

Picnicing at CAK...

2008-08-09T15:37:00.000-07:00

Isn't it the greatest to meet up with friends you haven't seen in a while? We had such a fun time today. The twin girls to Taylors left have been in class with him since he was 4, they have the baby sister who is a true miacle. I've told most of you about Baby Hutton. Well, today.....we got to see her! The kids were soooo excited and she is a cutie pie. We love their family so much, and were so happy to see them all out and about together.

The other exciting thing about today was finding out who the big Kindergarten teacher would be....Mrs. Prine. She is who mommy was hoping for. :)

She is going to whip Taylor right into shape....with loving kindness. I'm so excited for this year! I looked up and the kids were all sitting in their cubbies ...I'm afraid Parker thinks she's a Kindergartener:

Right after that, we sped over to the birthday party of Parkers friend Jillian. It was a princess party so she was PUMPED!!

Only 4 days til school starts, it's going to be a busy week.

Stay tuned..........

Was that wrong????

2008-08-07T10:59:00.000-07:00

It's an overcast day, the kids are kind-of beat because we've been pretty busy the last few days, so I decided to clean the house. I know, shocker right? Everything has been going great, gotten most of the downstairs done, bathroom, kitchen, couple loads of laundry. Taylor and I did his sight words, played a little princess with Parker, and of course LOTS of Sponge Bob. The kids wanted to get in the tub, okay. Then my sweet husband called to fill me in on his day so far in Kentucky and while I was on the phone (and doing more laundry) this is what the kids did..............

WARNING: MAYBE UNSUITABLE FOR LITTLE GIRLS WHO HAVE NEVER SEEN BOY PARTS...UNABLE TO SHOW FULL EFFECT WITHOUT FULL NUDITY.

Besides the 1/2 bottle of shampoo used, what you can't see is Parkers contribution.....the shaved wood used to pot one of my fake trees.

I'm sorry, was that wrong? We didn't know, we won't do it again.

Sleeping Together...

2008-08-05T16:15:00.001-07:00

Last night the kiddos decided it would be more fun to sleep in the playroom together. It took a while to get to sleep but once they did they slept like rocks! I honestly don't think Park moved ALL NIGHT. And Taylor didn't come looking for Dad until 6am. Hmmm, permenant sleeping arrangement?

Water Parks & Birthday parties....

2008-08-03T11:05:00.000-07:00

Last week we went to Kentucky Splash with the kids friends Claire and John Kirby, and my friend Ashely. (She also had the good sense to bring a babysitter with her!!) It was a great day. Taylor loved the wave pool and the lazy river, and Parker was all about the slides! The day was cut a bit short because of a thunderstorm but all in all, a fun time was had by all.

Then the next day a little boy in our neighborhood had a birthday party. And man can his mom put on a party! There was a pinata, waterballoon fight,and tons of fun in the pool!!

A Most Exciting Weekend!!

2008-07-23T12:35:00.000-07:00

So Taylor had his first sleepover Friday night with his friend Mason. Taylor and Mason are very much alike, so I have great respect for my sweet friend Katherine for taking them on!! Taylor had a great time and was in awe of their refrigerator. (Those of you who have seen mine are laughing right now!)

The next day, the Cosey family asked us to go out on their boat. We had a great time. The kids jumped off the cliffs, went tubing, and we met up with some other CAK friends and they even rode a paddle boat!! Such a fun time!

Thanks guys!!

Swim Nazi Time in Tennessee!!!

2008-07-07T06:48:00.001-07:00

Well, it's time for the annual Mrs. Mildred swim lessons. It's a grueling 8 days but well worth it! We were just watching the video from the first year the kids came to her. My little Parker (14 mos old) would cry as soon as we pulled into her driveway, and continue until we pulled out! But....... she can swim like a fish. I'm trying not to be like those obsessed parents who see their kids are talented at something and make their lives miserable perfecting it...I'm trying. And Taylor... oh my sweet Taylor. He's just happy to be alive and able to get from here to there. I want to put both the kids in a class together and see how he does. He doesn't have as much of a competitive spirit as Park does, but when it involves losing to her.........it's a whole different ballgame!
Well, off to the pool!

Happy 4th!!!

2008-07-04T15:31:00.000-07:00

Lounging at the pool, grilling out, watching fireworks... don't you love July 4th. I do. It's a shame you don't appreciate what it's about until you're older. We're trying to tell the kids, but as Jimmy's telling Taylor about the brave soldiers who gave their lives for our freedom, I see the glazed look on his face preceeding his question "Who are the bad guys the Green Goblin or the Silver Surfer?" Oh, well. Maybe one day. We're heading out to the grand parents for some fun tonight. And desperately missing our soldier on this day!

Still working on it...

2008-06-30T10:45:00.000-07:00

I'm having to go to my genius neighbor Jeanie, to figure this picture thing out!! And she did it in 2 minutes. Whatever, these are her two boys with Taylor and Park and their other friend Leah.

Jesse's doing WHAT?

2008-06-26T16:56:00.000-07:00

I got frustrated with this thing so I left for awhile! All my friends have these things and they have pictures and SLIDESHOWS and I can't even figure out how to put a picture where I want it!!! Jimmy's always telling me I have no mental toughness... well there you go. I'm a quitter! I have to figure this thing out somehow though, b/c Jesse's leaving for Iraq tomarrow (he hopes) and he'll be able to check it. He's my motivation! We went and saw he and Leslie this week. I can't believe my "little brother" is going to war. I used to get stressed about him oversleeping for high-school, can you imagine this?? I'm so proud of him though. What a brave thing to do!! Good Luck Lieutenant!!! We love you!

Cleaning Day

2008-05-21T08:58:00.000-07:00

Isn't it funny how your house actually looks even more messy when your cleaning it? We, well I, decided today was clean out the junk day. So I'm going through closets and toys, blah blah blah. I've done mine, which was a monster task, I never though I was a pack rat until I saw clothes that I've had since college in my closet! Anyway, I've done mine, Taylors and Parkers closets all in the time Jimmy's done the junk closet in his office. Bless his heart, he's so through. And if anything needs to be give away he feels like he needs to leave immediately to take it. Hey buddy, let's wait and see if there's more that needs to go. Or........ you can take the kids with you!

We went to WV this weekend. Jimmy's parents had a party for Taylor. They bought him a RED 4wheeler to keep up there. We left right after fun day at CAK. Taylor is so excited to get to Kindergarten... he thinks it means he's achieved adulthood b/c he gets to go into the big building . He's been in a portable for the last 2 years! Better go get Jimmy back on task!

Checkin' to see how it looks.

2008-05-12T16:09:00.000-07:00

Hey it worked, I did it!! Okay, I gotta go , Taylor's freaking out to play outside b/4 bed...

Welcom to the wonderful world of Blogging!!

2008-05-12T15:37:00.001-07:00

I can't believe I'm doing this. I am the most computer illiterate person alive. (except for a few elderly people out there!) But I thought it would be nice for the West Viginia Dunn's, and the Cragwalls at Ft. Campbell and Nashville to see what we're doing. I'm terrible at emailing pictures!

So I guess I just tell what we're up to and try to get some pictures on here... let's see, it's the LAST week of school. I'm actually excited to sleep in and only have to wonder out to the pool. Parker and I just had our first Mommy, Daughter Tea party on Sat. Her friend Jillian and her mom hosted it. Soooo, fun! And we just had Taylors 6th birthday party. I can't believe he's SIX!! Now let's see if I can get these pictures on here....hold your breath......

2008-05-12T15:36:00.001-07:00