Living a Dream

Lot's of Orange

2011-12-04T08:16:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, we had Jonathan's family over to watch the Auburn and Clemson games. The kids had a blast playing together and the adults enjoyed watching football!

Cousins all cheering on their Tigers

Luke trying on Noah's shoes with toe holes (I am sure they have a fancy name)!! I would go nuts!

Madison thought Mark needed a princess bandaid on his booboo from the tree swing

The boys wrestled with Jonathan (a great football day activity)

Then Madison decided she was not going to miss out on the boy fun so she told them all to get on her!!!

It is amazing how entertaining old cell phones can be! Can you hear me now??

With Tiger capes and pom-poms ready....here come our Tigers! (Ok so maybe they didn't show up)

Regardless of the score we are still Tigers!!! (and now Champs!)

Mark, Neely, Micah, and Noah...we were so sad to see you go! We loved spending time with you!!!

It's Beginning To Look Like Christmas

2011-12-04T08:02:00.000-08:00

The Friday after Thanksgiving we decorated for Christmas! While Jonathan was pulling out boxes from the attic I snuck in the Clay Aiken Christmas CD!! I was only able to enjoy a few songs :( He came downstairs and quickly changed it...HA! Oh well! Every year the excitement builds because Luke and Madison are starting to have that sparkle in their eye! We enjoyed setting up the manger and talking about the true meaning of Christmas!

Checking out the decorations

Oh Madison...you crack me up! She did not like this mess so we gave her the dust buster and put her to work! She loved it!

Getting ready to hang the wreaths on the windows

She had to add Luke's Woody vest to complete her outfit

Right there!

Good job Luke!

Luke helping hang ornaments

Madison hanging hers :)

We LOVE this time of year!

Thanksgiving in Iva

2011-12-04T07:38:00.000-08:00

I know I have said this before but we LOVE to go to Jonathan's sister's house in Iva! There is something about open spaces and the the cool air! We celebrated a Thanksgiving dinner with the Clayton's. It was very yummy! Everyone was there including Jonathan's grandmother, Nanny. She is a prayer warrior for both his family and mine too! If I ever need someone to pray she is the one I call! I am so thankful that God allowed me to join this family!!

Luke and Madison caught their nap on the way to Iva. They were still out when we got there!! It took them a while to wake up and get going so Luke found the perfect spot to hang out :)

We almost ended up in the ER on Thanksgiving! Mark was attacked by the wooden tree swing! It was a nasty cut! SO glad Angie is a nurse and took good care of him!

Nope...still not ready

Justin showing Daddy and Madison his new truck!

Micah helping Luke out of a rut

Angie's sweet kitty

The tree swing that was a source of fun and pain for the day :(

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Thanksgiving Day

2011-12-04T07:09:00.000-08:00

We went to my mom's house for Thanksgiving lunch with my side of the family. Our grandparents, Ruby and Colvin Vaughn are the rock of our family!! We are so grateful for their faith in God and love for each other! It is always so nice to see them and the rest of our amazing family.

I tried to get a few pictures of the kids before everyone got to mom's

Sweet babies

And then they reached their sitting still limit and broke out into dance!!! So funny!

My precious Papa!!!

My beautiful mom...nice face Luke

Jonathan and Dylan

Sweet Meme and Parker

We busted the jump jump out!

Chad and his buddy Luke

Madison swinging with Dylan/Parker (not sure which one...sorry!!!)

My mom got a ton of pictures together of our family and made a video to show on Thanksgiving!! It was great!

Uncle Greg and Brent watching

One of my favorite things is to watch my Meme laugh! She has the best laugh! She is a beautiful woman and I am so thankful for her!

The ladies :)

Me, my brother and sister

"Madison, where is your bow??"...Nice Papa Jackie!!

...and then it was time for us to bounce on over to the Clayton's Thanksgiving in Iva!

Sweet Home (From) Alabama

2011-12-04T06:30:00.000-08:00

Jonathan's brother, Mark, and family come into town from Birmingham, Alabama each year for Thanksgiving. We love to see them and try to fill up our days together so we can enjoy every second with them while they are in town. This year we decided to go to the Greenville Children's Museum. Luke and Madison enjoyed playing with Micah and Noah!! Later Wednesday night we opened Christmas presents!! Here are some pictures from our fun filled day...

Noah is Madison's buddy! He was showing her how to drive a race car!

Luke flying solo

Go Daddy!

Checking out the wind tunnel

The ball is floating on air!!!

Flying a plane

Noah and Madison checking out Luke's groceries

My little cowgirl

Very cool lights

Sweetness! My cousin's fiance, Nikki, works at the museum and Luke has a small crush on her (don't tell Brent)

Madison rinsing off her brush after cleaning these huge teeth

Boys being boys! Building big things then climbing on them and jumping off :)

He's a working man

My personal favorite part! I love to hear them sing! Madison was patiently waiting her turn...

Neely doing a news report with Noah about an alien invasion

Nana with Luke in the music room

Madison catching a ride from Uncle Mark

4 little monkeys climbing

We came home from the museum to take a nap. Noah and Micah came over right when they were waking up. Luke was SO excited to see them again!

Cousins

Opening Christmas presents! A Buzz Lightyear and Woody!!!!

Madison got a doll with crazy hair! She loved it!

Micah and Noah opening their presents from us

Taking a cookie break

Madison testing the camping chair we got Mark

Kevin and Justin

Relaxing

Then Madison wanted everyone to sit in her lap....silly girl!

Hollywild

2011-12-02T10:21:00.000-08:00

A couple days before Thanksgiving we loaded up a 15 passenger van with two 10 month old babies, two 2 year olds, one 5 year old, and 7 adults! We headed out for Hollywild! It was the first night it was open for the Christmas season so there were not a lot of people there! We laughed SO hard and made a ton of fun memories!

We looked like the main attraction when we all started unloading from this van!

Daddy, Luke and Madison riding around looking at all the beautiful lights!

2 thumbs up for Hollywild!

Parker and Dylan liked looking at all the lights too!

Look at that face!

Hilarious! That is Jonathan's hand trying to get the cow to get close to Jackie's face! Jackie's face is priceless!!

Luke and I feeding the cow

This picture cracks me up because the cow was coming in on my sister and she was freaking out pushing it away with her foot! If only this picture had sound!

The brave boys decided to open the back of the van and just sit! Notice Ryan's shirt! That is because when the HUGE cow was back there Ty decided to poor some of the food in Ryan's lap so the cow went crazy and slobbered all over Ryan!

So what were Parker and Dylan doing while we were all screaming and dying laughing....this! I think Gabby was in heaven holding both of them!!! So sweet!

My little stud!

I love this picture of Luke and Austin in front of the camp fire!

Feeding the animals. Madison stayed in a safe place on Daddy's shoulders!

Austin showing his mommy and brothers how to feed the animals.

He is a pro!

The Clayton Crew

Bottle feeding :)

Daddy with Luke and Madison

This picture should be entered for something!!! We wanted to take a picture with the horses in the background but when Jennifer and Ty walked back there Parker and Dylan would not turn their heads around! They were glued to the horses!!!! So, we told Austin to turn around too! HILARIOUS!

Not a great background but the horses were now in front of them so they would look this way!!

The Hawkins' Huddle

Sweet pic of Mom and Ryan

Gabby and Papa with the grandkids

Uncle Ryan with all the kids

Columbia Zoo

2011-12-02T08:33:00.000-08:00

The Columbia Zoo is amazing!! Really amazing! Coming back to the Greenville Zoo is like swimming in the ocean in Hawaii then coming back to Myrtle Beach. It just doesn't compare! So, when our friends in Columbia asked us to come to the zoo with them for a play date we said YES! We had a great time and enjoyed the animals and friends! It was also a great time for the moms to "sprinkle" the mommies-to-be!

Who doesn't love a good photo booth?

What is THAT???

How cute are they?? Madison and Ella!! LOVE this!

Madison sharing her pretzels with Zoe

Checking out the kangaroos!

Madison helping Mattice and Courtney push their strollers :)

Luke and Caleb were already worn out! They took a rest on the rocks!

Eye to eye with the giraffe!

Zoe feeding the giraffe

Ella's turn!

Milking the cow in the farm

Luke stretching to get the job done

Feeding the goat...or just touching his tongue...who knows! Either way, lot of sanitizer to follow!

They even have a merry-go-round! Madison loved riding the giraffe!

Luke and Caleb picked the peacock seat

Ella with her zebra

Peek-a-boo! I see you!

Penguins!!! The kids seemed to enjoy climbing the rock over and over!

Funny girls! Ella, where are you legs??

Luke, where are you??

The kiddo line up: Sara Grace, Riley, Madison, Ella, Caleb, Quinn, and Luke (poor guy on the skinniest part of the tail but still hanging on!)

We had a great time at the zoo with you guys!

Do you think 8 years ago when we were graduating from Clemson we could have imagined this line up??? Now Sara Grace is going to be a big sister to a baby brother, Riley and Quinn are going to have a baby brother, and Ella is going to be a big sister! God has been so good!!

Hotlanta

2011-12-02T07:52:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, my mom and I took Luke and Madison to Atlanta to visit my brother! Jonathan was out of town in Canada so we decided to spend the night! Luke and Madison stayed in their first hotel! We had a GREAT time! We ate yummy food, did some shopping, and went to the children's museum! Luke and Madison LOVE spending time with Uncle Ryan!! Thanks for having us in the big city!

Luke with Uncle Ryan on our way to dinner

Love this picture!!

We loved walking a few blocks to eat! Mom and Madison fit right in! Cell phones and big purses (Madison insisted on bringing her "purse" too which was a shopping bag)

The next morning we went downstairs to eat a yummy breakfast! I think the elevator was one of their favorite parts!

After breakfast, they changed into their bathing suits and Ryan took them swimming in the indoor pool!! Swimming in November was so fun!!

Ryan taking Luke for a swim

Madison's turn! This was right before Madison said "Mommy, change my poopy!" Everyone OUT OF THE POOL! She had on a swim diaper but they have never pooped in it and I wasn't sure how well it held it :) Good thing we were the only ones in the pool! On another note, there was a man checking the water levels when she yelled that!! You may need to check those one more time sir! Awesome timing Madison! Too funny!! It was a short but fun swim!

Packing up to leave the hotel

Can you go to a hotel without doing this?? Please don't judge!

Checking out the city

That morning we headed out for the children's museum in Atlanta!! Luke and Madison had a great time!

Doing some construction with Uncle Ryan

Luke was happy on the John Deere!

Shopping! I know what you are thinking...you have a lot of pictures of Luke but not a ton of Madison. Well, if you know her then you know why! She is hard to keep up with! She runs from one thing to another!!!

She will pause for the arts :) She loves to paint and draw! This was really cool! The kids could paint on this wall. They both loved it!

Beautiful work Madison!

Gabby helping Madison draw a smiley face

Luke and Ryan playing in the sand

Making sand cupcakes

They had a cute station where you could fish! It had a magnet to catch the fish and Luke caught one! Look at that sweet, proud face!

There was a fairy tale section..."O Juliet, Juliet, wherefore art thou Juliet?"

Playing the piano

This cracked us up!!! There was a class there on a field trip and this sweet lady (maybe their teacher or a mom) was wrapping cloth around her kids so they could perform in front of a huge mirror. Well, Madison found a cloth and walked right up to her so she could make her one!! She was sweet enough to do it!

And here she is! So funny! She LOVED it!

Building with HUGE legos!

Ryan, we had a great time in Hotlanta!!!! Thank you for letting us come and hang out with you!! Gabby, thanks for jumping on the crazy train and going with us! Having 2 two year olds in a car for almost 5 hours total and then in a hotel room overnight was an experience! They were great though!! I would do it again tomorrow!

H is for Hamburgers and Hopscotch

2011-12-02T06:52:00.000-08:00

Around the holidays the letter of the week seems to stretch into 2 weeks! We enjoyed learning about the letter Hh! We ate hamburgers, hot dogs, peanut butter and honey sandwiches (a childhood favorite of mine!), ham and cheese sandwiches, and humus! We also sang lots of fun songs like If Your Happy and You Know It, Home on the Range, The Hokey Pokey, and He's Got the Whole World in His Hands. We read fun books about horses, houses, hands, hippos, and hiccups! They also drew their handprints, wore lots of fun hats, did mommy's hair, saw a helicopter and we even ate at Happy Pie with Gabby!! Here are some pictures form Hh week :)

We had Jonathan's family over for hamburgers. We went outside while they were cooking to play a little football! Luke was tackling Angie!!

Down, Set, HIKE!

Hold the ball, Nana!

We had a play date with our small group friends and made happy faces out of apples, peanut butter, and marshmallows :)

Luke, Madison, Benji, Anna Lee, and Luke #2

Luke and Madison had their first bowl of cereal! They loved Honey Nut Cheerios one day then Honey Combs the next!

One afternoon we went to the Hollingsworth Park to play...it was FREEZING! I was wondering why we were the only ones there...then we got out of the car and realized why! The wind was blowing and it was SO cold! We only stayed for a few minutes!

Happy to always have a buddy to play with!

One day it was pouring rain out so we played in the garage! We played hopscotch!

We drew with sidewalk chalk

We traced each other's body and hands

Humidity makes her curls amazing!

I love this kid~ so HANDSOME!

Oh be still my heart...

Heaven...

We cut out and decorated hearts!

We talked about how we can be helping hands around the house! We talked about a few ways they could help out like picking up toys, putting their dirty clothes in the hamper, unloading the dishwasher, putting milk cup in the sink, and empty trashcans.

Madison loves to help me unload the silverware in the dishwasher!!

We also made another trip to Hollywild and visited my brother in Hot-lanta! Stay tuned for those posts :)

Trick or Treat

2011-11-01T06:58:00.000-07:00

Last night we took Luke and Madison, also known as Dorothy and the Lion, trick or treating around the neighborhood. It was so cute to watch them knock on doors or ring doorbells and say "Trick or Treat!" They were also a little taken back by the scary costumes and the man that jumped out of the bushes at them!! We did have a great time meeting up with the Freeman's and going house to house with their kids!

Ready to go!!!

After Madison rang the doorbell at the first 3 houses about 15 times we had to remind her to only ring it once! Sorry neighbors!

"Hey mom! I'm trick or treating!"

The Freeman's and their Mario gang!

Drew (Mario) was our leader and protector! He took such good care of Luke and Madison! He told them when to come to the side of the road if a car was coming, which house to go to next, and which houses they just needed to stay away from because they were too scary! Thanks Drew!

The two Luke's!

Lilly and Madison

Madison helping Mr. Scott pull the wagon :)

As a kid this was always my favorite part! Coming home, dumping out all your candy, and seeing what all you got!! Yummy!

I told them they could pick one piece to eat before bath. She was not too sure about the piece she chose! She wouldn't let go of that basket though :)

After bath we let them pass out candy to the boys and girls that came by! I really think this was one of their favorite parts! They were SO excited when the doorbell rang!

Happy Halloween! Now someone please come get all this candy out of our house!!! :)

Taylor's Fall Festival

2011-10-31T08:16:00.000-07:00

Last night we went to the Taylor's First Baptist Fall Festival. It is always a lot of fun!! We really enjoyed running into lots of friends! Luke and Madison looked adorable in their Dorothy and Lion costumes!

"We're off to see the wizard..."

These two are on a wonderful adventure together!!

Madison making a silly face trying to make Parker and Dylan laugh

Rooooaaarrrr!

"Somewhere Over the Rainbow..."

The Wizard of Oz crew :) Lion, Scarecrow(Dylan), Tin Man (Parker), and Dorothy

Austin was the Red Power Ranger! He was there to protect all the Wizard of Oz characters!

My sister, Jennifer, Ty, and their adorable family

Jonathan and I with our adorable Lion and Dorothy

Gabby and Papa with the whole gang...even Toto!

Papa and Luke

Howdy cowboy! We ran into Parker and his family!

This picture cracks me up! Poor Parker was trying to give Madison a hug and she was not having much to do with it...not sure if she was afraid of messing her hair up :)

There's Anna too!

Luke and Madison played a lot of fun games!

Luke even went fishing!

Papa with the Tin Man (Parker)

Gabby with the Scarecrow (Dylan)

Luke waving by to Daddy before the hayride

I think this is my favorite picture!! Love everything about it! So sweet!

Going on a hayride with Nana

Trick or Treat!! We stopped by Meme and Papa's house to say hey and let them see the kids

Love this! I think Austin's face and what Jennifer said says it all...she said "We really are like the Wizard of Oz! We come in like a tornado and then its nice and quiet when we leave!"

We are super excited about trick or treating tonight!!!

Happy Halloween everyone!

Brent and Nikki's Engagement Party

2011-10-31T07:26:00.000-07:00

The Ayers' boys know how to pick em'! We adore Nikki and we are so excited for them to get married on September 1st, 2012! My aunt hosted an engagement party with tons of family and friends this past Saturday night. The weather was perfectly cool!! We enjoyed a nice fire and good food!

My precious Papa (my mom's dad) with Parker

Too sweet not to post more than one! Parker thought Papa was hilarious!

TOO CUTE!!!

Dylan with Uncle Gene (my mom's brother)

Nikki bought Brent this amazing kayak for their anniversary! Brent was so surprised!

I think Luke thought the fishing poles were for driving!

Madison and her buddy Chad

The Clayton Crew

Isn't Nikki BEAUIFUL?!?!? We love her!

The happy couple with Luke and Madison...twins look good on you guys :)

I wish I had more pictures of the set up! It looked like something out of Southern Living!! This was the candy table for treat bags on your way out!

Brent and Nikki,

We are trilled that God has brought you two together! We know that your life together is going to be full of fun, laughs, and adventure! We love you!

Pumpkin Carving and Painting

2011-10-31T07:04:00.000-07:00

Last week we got together at my mom's house to carve and paint pumpkins with all the kids. It was messy and fun!

Oh boys! Give them a bat and let them get all their energy out! You would have thought that the wall was attacking them! I really wish I had a video of this!

Then they moved on to much manlier things...like the pink Barbie car :)

Yes, Luke does have a toy plunger in his hand and maybe mouth! Hey Luke, no plunging and driving!

YUCK! Cleaning the pumpkin out!

Get it Austin!

Luke giving it a try

We brought little pumpkins to paint

Madison working on her masterpiece

Daddy giving Luke a hand

Ty, you have a little something on your face

Madison, show me your excited face

After a good 30 minutes she was the only one left...still painting...the same spot...

Papa checking on her progress

Gabby even stopped and got the kids these super yummy cupcakes from Strossner's Bakery!

Boo!

Really? Power tools? Whatever happened to good ole knives?

It didn't take long until we realized we may loose a finger with the power tool so we switched back to the old fashioned way

Papa and Gabby enjoying every moment!

This picture doesn't do this moment justice! We lit the jack-o-lantern and Luke and Madison starting singing Happy Birthday!! It was so funny! I guess they think anytime a candle is lit it is someone's birthday!

What better way to end the day than this?!?! So stinkin' wet and cute!

And Exhale

2011-10-28T11:44:00.000-07:00

A while ago my dad purchased some land in Asheville. We grew up on my dad's farm in Greenville with horses but he sold that property a long time ago. I was so excited when he got this land! He has been working really hard building and making it livable so that hopefully one day we can all go stay there! My dad and I took Luke and Madison to the property last week to see the progress. It was BEAUTIFUL! Perfect time of year to drive up there! I really don't know how to choose my favorite pictures out of the 177 I took!!! I will do my best :)

I loved all the details!

The wood floors, huge wooden beans on the ceiling, and wooden banisters made it feels so warm and cozy!

My dad makes a living buying and selling antiques so it was cool to see the little antique touches throughout the house!

Madison found a chair just her size!

I love the look of this old plane!

My dad had these old canes so Luke and Madison used them to walk around the whole house! It was so funny!

Dad and the kids off the upstairs balcony

Papa Don and Maddie

This is one of those pictures I ~~think~~ know I will cherish forever! Dad had an old banjo and he was showing Madison how to play.

That face...

Ha! Luke's face cracks me up!!

Please stay this little and always want to help Papa Don open the gate

This was our transportation around the land! Before you call DSS on me they did have seat belts and we only rode on grass :)

Dad has 5 horses...one colt...I could be around them everyday!

Love this little guy!

This picture takes my breath away! I think of how small he is and how big and strong that horse is. Something about this picture reminds me of our relationship with God...maybe it is just me and in this moment :)

He did not want to get out of the jeep! He would laugh when we hit bumps and told Papa Don to go faster!

Madison striking a pose

My dad had this cute little beaver in the jeep that Luke and Madison carried around with them most of the day (you will see it make its appearance in most pictures).

We felt like we were on top of the world

My dad was being funny putting Luke and Madison in all these different poses!

I see you!

They love their Papa Don!

And this is where I exhaled! You get on top of the hill and look around and this was all we saw! God's amazing creation that reflects his glory daily!

Luke and Madison didn't want to leave the horses!

You know when you have a picture in your head but then you realize "Oh wait, I have two 2 year olds who don't always love to sit still and both don't look and smile at the camera at the same time!" It's ok! I will take what I can get!

Throwing rocks into the creek

Good shot Dad!

It is amazing how just a few feet off the ground can make you feel HUGE!

Chillin'

This view was so cute!

The view of the back of Dad's house

Fun picture

We even saw a llama!

Gorgeous!

I loved seeing this barn

One last ride on a cool antique toy before we hit the road

What a great day! It felt good to just be on farm land and get dirty! Luke and Madison were covered in dirt and smelled like horses but I LOVED it! I am ready to go back!

Niven's Apple Orchard

2011-10-28T06:36:00.000-07:00

We met some friends at Niven's Apple Orchard last week. It is always fun to watch the kids play together! They had fun playing, checking out the animals, riding the hayride, and eating a picnic lunch!

Jumping on the tire

Crawling through the tunnel

Luke, don't mind the line behind you...I love that he goes at his own pace...no rush...ever :)

Looking at the animals

Luke loved playing in the tee-pee! He kept calling in the tee-tee! He was running around in it saying "Yay tee-tee!" Really funny!

Beautiful Alli!

Alli, Owen, Luke and, Madison with lots of pumpkins!

Farmer Luke

Ready for the hayride! He was really listening to the lady giving us instructions and telling us about the farm!

We will blink and they will all be on a bus going to school!

Thanks for playing Alli and Owen! We had so much fun!!!

G is for Greenville and Golf

2011-10-28T06:12:00.000-07:00

Gg week was full of yummy goldfish, green beans, granola bars, graham crackers, and grapes! We sang songs like "Amazing Grace" and "The Green Grass Grew All Around." We read lots of fun books like Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site, Brave Georgie Goat, The Great Gracie Chase, Bubble Gum, Bubble Gum, and My Grandma's Chair. We had a lot of fun adventures!!! Here are some pictures from Gf week!

Fall for Greenville

My mom, Jackie, Nancy, and I took Luke, Madison, Parker, and Dylan to Fall for Greenville Saturday morning. It was perfect to get there right when it opened because it was not too crazy yet. We had a great time walking up and down main street!!

My beautiful mom, aka Gabby, with Parker and Dylan. They were perfect the whole time!! Great babies!

Chugga chugga choo choo!

I have no idea who this is but Luke walked right up to her! Madison was hiding behind me!

They loved riding these helicopters!

We stopped for a break to eat lunch away from the madness at...

Groucho's Deli! Yum!

The Grandma's...Nana and Gabby with Luke and Madison

Did I mention that Luke never meets a stranger? Real people, animals, or even statues :)

Parker and Dylan were out! I love Luke's face and the way Madison is standing :)

The Bubble Man was at Fall for Greenville and Luke and Madison loved chasing the HUGE bubbles with Nana

Here they come!!

It was pretty windy waiting on the bubbles

Gabby and Luke on the giraffe

Nana and Madison on the giraffe too

Downtown Greenville

Falls Park Golf and Games

One night Jonathan and I took the kids to this place. I have always wondered what was in it. It was really cute and Luke and Madison enjoyed playing a lot of the games! The golf looked a little too big for them right now so we just stuck to the games :)

This is "Bill" the horse...what a fun pit stop on our way to Fall's Park

Hi Mr. Bill

Luke looks so adorable to me in this picture!

Jonathan has been traveling a good bit to Canada lately and on his last trip he was given a present for Luke and Madison!! T-shirts that say Canada and these Roots sweatshirts! We wanted to take a picture to send and say thanks!!

We made it!! Look at those big G's!

I love this picture! I love their faces and I love how it depicts what a great dad Jonathan is! This is what he looks like most days when he gets home from work...they love to crawl and jump on dad!

No Harley's for you young lady!

They had a few small rides for kids

Bowling with Daddy

Bring it on Ty and Austin! These boys can hunt!

Shooting hoops

Daddy even gave Luke a few golf lessons!

We made grass heads this week with styrofoam cups (you draw a face on the cup), dirt, and grass seed so I will post a picture when their "hair" starts growing!

We are so grateful to live in such a great city like Greenville! So many fun things to do!!

Spooky Play Date

2011-10-27T11:34:00.000-07:00

Our good friend Dawn invited us over for a Halloween themed play date. Luke and Madison had a blast playing, eating yummy food, and making a pumpkin!

I made these yummy Nutter Butter ghosts for the play date

The kids eating their spooky lunch

Luke dipping his hand in the paint....ewwww!

Good job Madison!

Adorable Owen!

If there was only a picture of what was going on behind the camera to get them to look!

Cute craft Dawn!

She even had treat buckets for the kids AND mommy!

Thank you for having us Dawn and Owen!

Clemson Homecoming

2011-10-27T08:03:00.000-07:00

What a fun Saturday! We started our day off going to Jonathan's work family picnic. We were able to take a tour of the plant, eat a yummy hot log lunch, and let the kids ride a few rides. Then we headed to Clemson for the BC game. We stood out like a sore thumb at the picnic in all our orange but fit right in when we pulled into Clemson :)

Madison checking out daddy's desk at work

In the plant

Jonathan showing Luke one of the machines

What a perfect end to our Ff week! They had a firetruck there!

The fireman was showing Luke how to ring the bell

Homecoming floats

Love all the orange :)

The boys with their Clemson hats

It was hot! They did great though! Lots of fun snacks always helps!

Time to stretch our legs! We saw Austin, Ty, Gabby and Papa at halftime!

Mom and Jackie took them up to the box for the 3rd quarter...thank you!!!!

During the 4th quarter we took the mover to the West End Zone. I LOVE this picture! I LOVE Luke's face!!

Maybe you will go here one day little man...

Madison met a cheerleader!!!!!!!! She was so sweet!!

After the game we went on the field to play!

Luke and Madison loved playing football with James and another one of his friends

Love her face! Dad's are so fun!!!

How about those Tigers??!?!?! We are proud of them and so impressed with Dabo!

A perfect way to end our Ff week with a family picnic, a firetruck, and being a fan at the Clemson football game!

Dollywood

2011-10-27T07:41:00.000-07:00

My dad wanted to take Luke and Madison to Dollywood in Pigeon Forge so a few weeks ago we made a day trip! It was a BEAUTIFUL drive! I love to drive...especially in the mountains so I loved every minute of the long drive! We had a great time and enjoyed walking around the huge park! Here are some pictures from our day... (yes Luke is wearing the same shirt he wore to Hollywild...let's just say the dinosaur shirt became a quick favorite!)

When we walked in the park we were greeted by a 3 man band. They were all in overalls and I think Luke was little taken back by it! He didn't know what to think!

Train ride

It was powered by coal! Who knew they still did that! The smoke was so thick that when were driving into the park I really thought Dollywood was on fire!

Papa Don and Madison riding the elephant...I think dad was a little big!

Beautiful little girl

Best buddies

They were so proud to be able to ride a ride all by themselves! They rode ducks...

bumble bees...

and pigs!

They LOVED the carousel! They rode it twice!

Oh dad....teaching Luke how to make the horse go faster :)

We watched the process of making syrup in the old days! Very cool to watch the horses grind down the sugar cane!

Me and the kiddos in front of the steam train and pretty fall decorations!

Such a silly girl! She thought dad needed a few leaves in his hat...she looks so proud of her creation!

This had to be my favorite ride in the whole place!!!

They thought they were BIG stuff "driving" their own car with us in the passenger seat!

Checking out some of the cool, old cars!

Luke thought this reminded him of Mater from Cars

Fill er up son!

They had a really neat obstacle course playground for the kids! Very challenging but fun!

Now that is a lot of pumpkins...and one cute little girl!

Thank you Papa Don for such a fun day! I love spontaneous trips to the mountains!!

Hollywild Farm and a Few Firsts

2011-10-27T07:09:00.000-07:00

During Ff week I wanted to take the kids to a farm. We have visited Hollywild Farm during Christmas and it was amazing but I had never been during the off season. So, after an overnight stay at Gabby's house (yes, all 5 grandkids...I did stay too) we packed up and headed to Hollywild. Here are some pictures from our AMAZING day!

Really is there anything better?? All five cuddled up watching cartoons in their pajamas on an air mattress! We had kids spread out all over the house! It was Luke and Madison's first night in a big bed! Let's just say it didn't go great...Luke fell out of the bed :( Madison looks scared being the only girl in between 4 boys but don't let her fool you! She can hold her own!

Mom and Jennifer got all the boys matching dinosaur shirts and I found a shirt for Madison that was the same color. Gabby and Papa are very humbly proud :) Does that make sense? Ha!

The Hawkins Boys

Austin riding "Midnight"

Luke rode a horse for the first time!!! His horse was "Cinnamon" and he still talks about him!!

Madison rode a horse for the first time too! She rode "Midnight" too!

Have I mentioned that Luke has NO fear! He loved feeding all the goats!

He made a quick friend!

I LOVE this picture because it reminds me of the way God made boys! They will find dirt and rocks anywhere they go!

Papa with the "big" grandkids

This cows head was as big as Luke but it didn't bother him! He was ready to feed it!

How bout them horns? And HUGE tongue!

This is how Madison fed them! She would lay it on the edge and tap it until the cow got it.

I think they were a little worn out!

When we got home we painted feet and made this...

Mom has it hanging in her kitchen now and we made another of Luke and Madison's feet print for Nana!

If you have not been to Hollywild I really recommend it! Especially around Christmas!

Thank you Gabby and Papa for such a perfect day!

F is for Funnel Cakes and Family

2011-10-11T11:43:00.000-07:00

We did Ff for two weeks! Partly because there were a lot of fun things to do with it and partly because Jonathan was out of town in Canada for two long weeks straight so I just stayed on the same letter :) Did you hear me say he was gone for two weeks.....two whole weeks...even the weekend! We missed him SO much! I know a lot of families do this a lot and I admire their strength! Good thing we have a lot of family around to keep us busy!!

For Ff week we enjoyed eating yummy fruit, french fries, french toast, and Fruit Loops. We sang "Five Little Monkeys" and "Farmer and the Dell". We read The Rainbow Fish, The Foot Book, Down on the Funny Farm, and lots of other books about football, firetrucks, and flags! Here are some pictures and other fun adventures we went on these past two weeks!

French toast...a little powdered sugar...yum!

We met my sister and her family and Gabby and Papa in downtown Greenville one night. We ate at Mellow Mushroom then walked down to Funnelicious across from the Drive baseball stadium. The funnel cakes were really good and it was a beautiful night for a walk downtown!

Madison eating her funnel cake

Luke pretty much just licked all the sugar off the top and only took one real bit. Funny kid!

We were missing Daddy so we decided to send him a package! Madison was coloring her page...

I saw this cute quote online so we each got a page then I stapled them together. It says, "Dad: A son's first hero, a daughter's first love." I LOVE that!

We took it to Fed Ex and sent it to Cananda!! We filled it with yummy snacks, our book we made him, a book to read to us (apparently I wrote 'read to use' on the note) on FaceTime, and a magazine. Jonathan did tell me that the Reeses minis were one big block of chocolate :(

He got our package and that night he read the story called A Father's Song to Luke and Madison on FaceTime! They LOVED it!!!

One night we met Nana and Nanny (Luke and Madison's great grandmother) to eat at Fatz :)

We read a couple Fancy Nancy books so we decided to dress Madison like Pinkalicious! Luke also found this funny hat that use to belong to Austin and he wanted to wear it ALL day! It cracked me up because it had flaps on the side!!!

We read The Rainbow Fish and Rainbow Fish 1, 2, 3 and made our own rainbow fish!

We also got our first pet!!! We bought a Betta fish and named him Frito! In this picture his is peaking out behind Luke's arm :) They love to feed him and talk to him!

We will end with Madison new funny face! I like to call it her cheesy Elvis smile!

Stay tuned for 3 other posts! We went to Hollywild Farm, Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, and to the Clemson football game! It was two weeks full of fun!!!!

E is for Eggs and Elephants

2011-10-11T11:06:00.000-07:00

We had an exciting Ee week! We ate lots of scrambled eggs and some yummy Eggo waffles! We sang songs like "Everything Grows" and "Nellie the Elephant." We read a ton of E books that we checked out at the library! They loved reading books about elephants (My Elephant), eggs (Eggday), and engines (The Little Engine That Could). We were hoping to go to the zoo to see the elephant but it rained most of the week (we did E about 3 weeks ago...late post!). Here are a few pictures from our Ee week!

One morning I cooked a big breakfast before Jonathan went to work so we could enjoy some eggs! (To all you moms that do this every morning....wow....I am impressed!) Later in the week my brother, Ryan, came for the night so we cooked another yummy breakfast for him one morning! Eggs, eggs, and more eggs!

Madison enjoyed the eggs!

Eggo waffles!!!

We made an "Egg"cellent Matching game :) They had to open the egg and find the match. I put an elephant, googly eyes, the Earth, and eggs inside.

Where did Luke and Madison go?? We made fun elephants :)

In other EXCITING news...Luke and Madison both tee-teed in the potty this week! Madison has before but I just started giving them one Smartie if they go. They were on the potty a lot hoping to get a piece of candy!! They were both very excited when they went!! Way to go Luke and Madison!!!

The Big 3-0

2011-09-22T12:49:00.000-07:00

I turned the big 3-0 on September 13th :( I mean :)! I now have tons of wisdom!! Ask away!

My amazing family had a great birthday party for me! My sweet husband was planning a surprise party but something came up on that day and he had to change plans....however...instead of a big party he gave me a choice of 3 trips!!! Seriously?!?!? Seriously! I will post the adorable way he gave me this below! Help me choose!

Here are some pictures from my big day...

Does that zero really have a three in front of it???

My cousin Chandler playing with the twins

Jonathan got the BEST cake in the world!! Our Best Chocolate Cake by Strossners' Bakery

Luke and Madison helping me blow out my candles

My mom took Luke and Madison one day to make my birthday present...I LOVE them!

So...I get a huge box to open next. When I open it I see Jonathan's ipad. At first I thought maybe he was giving it to me...sweet! Then I saw a note on it that said "Open." I opened the ipad and saw this!...

A choice of 3 trips!!!! I am SO ready to pack my bags...if I could only make a decision! What an amazing husband...LOVE YOU! THEN...I see something else in the box (next picture)

The moment I opened it I started cry!! It was letters that family and close friends had written for me! I don't think anyone will ever know just how much these letters meant to me! I have read them at least 10 times now and I will cherish them forever!

The amazing family I married into :)

The family I had no choice about....JK!!! I love this family SO much! I also love all the new additions we are getting!

Thank you for making my 30th birthday so wonderful!

Angie Turns 40

2011-09-22T11:53:00.000-07:00

My precious sister-in-law turned 40 on September 10th! We had a hot dog supper at her house with lots of family and friends. The kids (as always) loved running around! Luke had to bring his tractor :) Here are some pictures from her party...

Madison getting ready to play corn hole

Luke throwing the bags

Angie teaching Luke how to throw a frisbee

Some of the guys played football too

Some of the kids enjoyed the rope swing

Madison and Luke watching the big kids ride 4 wheelers

Just was a trooper giving everyone a ride

Madison loved the rope swing!!

Luke and Madison just wanted to sit on the 4 wheeler this time :)

This child cracks me up! She kept going back to the rope swing over and over! She kept getting more and more comfortable on it! Wild thing!

Justin and Rachel

There is nothing better than enjoying a yummy hot dog supper outside on a perfect evening!

A good rope swing will bring out the kid in anyone!

I was ready for the limb to snap!!

Payback! Jonathan put Justin in the trees!

Happy Birthday Angie! You are a beautiful woman! I admire you as a mom and wife!

D is for Donuts and Ducks

2011-09-21T17:42:00.000-07:00

I deserve a D for D week :( Oh well, I know there will be weeks like this! It was my birthday week (that fun post to come) so I think that is a pretty good excuse! We did have fun eating donuts and some Dorritos! We also sang songs like "The Farmer and the Dell", "6 Little Ducks", and "How Much Is That Doggie in the Window?" We read Go Away, Dog! and lots of other cute books about dogs. We also talked about the words dinosaur, dolphin, dentist, daffodil, donkey, doctor, dentist, dominoes, and door. We even made a trip to the zoo with Papa Don! Here are a few pictures from Dd week :)

YUM!

Almost as sweet as he is :)

I know girl...they are so good!

Luke going through his Dd cards

Luke quizzing Madison

Little blurry..boo..but cute group pic

Luke wanted a turn on the sign

Checking out the monkeys

Madison trying to make her monkey face! I was in tears laughing!

Two adorable kids!

AHAHAHAHAHA!!!! Don't you get me bear!

Who is that cute boy climbing a tree?

Love this picture of Luke looking up at Papa Don! BTW my dads shirt said Hairy Potter...get it??

"Hey goat, where did you go??"

Taking one last look at the elephant before we go

I will end on this note...

He's still got it!

Labor Day Weekend

2011-09-21T17:16:00.000-07:00

We spent Labor Day weekend at the lake. We had a great time watching ALL the kids play in the water! Even Parker and Dylan enjoyed their first dip in the lake :)

Papa Jackie and Austin going for a ride on the jet ski (or maybe this picture was of Austin about to jump off the jet ski after his ride)

Parker and Dylan watching and ready for their turn!

The Clayton Crew taking a dip

No words!!!

I am pretty sure this is Dylan

Again...speechless

Going on a boat ride back to the dock for naps! Can you tell they were about to fall over??

It was a rainy Labor Day so we brought the little baby pools out for the kids to play in! They had a blast!!! All you need are a few measuring cups and big spoons and they are entertained for hours!

Laying back in their redneck pool :)

Clemson Play Date

2011-09-15T13:13:00.000-07:00

My friend, Dawn, hosted a Clemson Play Date! Great idea! The kids loved it and so did Carrie, Dawn, and I! She had cute tiger plates, pom pom's, yummy food, and lots of toys for the kids to play with! Thanks again for having us Dawn! Now if we can just keep them all Clemson fans and have enough money to send them to Clemson one day!

They had a great playroom and Luke found toys he loved right away!

Yummy lunch!

Owen (Dawn's little boy) and Alli (Carrie's little girl)

This car was a big hit! They all wanted to ride and push!

Alli doing her Clemson cheer!!

LOVE this group shot! So cute!!

It's so hard to say goodbye!

C is for C-L-E-M-S-O-N

2011-09-15T12:56:00.000-07:00

What a perfect week to do the letter Cc! Friday night we took the kids to the First Friday Parade before Clemson's 1st game on Saturday. Jonathan was flying in from Canada so he was not able to make it :( We did talk to him several times on the computer during the week so that made missing him a little easier. My mom, sister, Ty, Austin, Parker and Dylan came with us! We had a great time watching the parade and spending time with some great friends! We had a fun picnic after the parade on Bowman....a tradition from now on for sure! Here are some pictures from our day :)

Luke and Madison were saying "Fight Tiger, Fight Tigers, Fight! Fight! Fight!"

Here comes the parade!!!

Luke and Madison waving at everyone coming! Parker and Austin were watching it too with Gabby!

A little blurry (bummer) but too cute not to post! The tiger came by and gave Luke a low five :)

Oh Gabby...she was telling Luke to give the cheerleaders and all the sorority girls a kiss! Silly boy just kept blowing kisses! The girls were loving it! My little stud!

A LOT of excitement when the tractor came by!

Austin loved the parade and soaked up every moment of it!

Madison with Lauren

My beautiful sister and Dylan (I think)

I adore this picture!!! Luke went to sit by Austin to watch some of the parade and Austin put his arm around him! So sweet! Best buds!

The kids loved running around on Bowman!

I mean, seriously! Do they get any cuter?? Campbell is such a precious little girl!

James and Luke

Austin and Luke walked up to check out the horses! Wow they are big!

We loved having a picnic with my family and the Lee's and Epting's!

Our attempt at getting a picture of all the kids...not too bad :) Madison, are you back there??

Our crew! We sure did miss Jonathan!!!

The Hawkins' Crew

My mom with her grandkids (plus one adopted one....James!) Ha! You can join our family anytime!!

We had a great time at the First Friday Parade and it made me proud to be a Tiger! We went on to win the next day! If you come to the parade next year, look for us on Bowman after!!

Go Clemson Tigers!

C is for Cereal and The Children's Museum

2011-09-14T07:23:00.000-07:00

Cc was a fun week! We read great books like "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom", talked about God's creation, and ate yummy Chick-Fil-A! We also ate steamed carrots, cookies, cheese, cantelope, Chex cereal, chicken, Cheetos chips, Capri Suns, and crackers. Our biggest highlight of the week was going to the Children's Museum in downtown Greenville! I have never been before so it was a real treat to take Luke and Madison with my dad! Here are some pictures from our C week :)

Yummy goodness! Cinnamon rolls!

Luke and Madison at The Children's Museum driving the race car

Luke loved the wind tunnel!

How do they do that? Madison loved watching the balls float in the air!

I think Luke could've stayed here the rest of the day! You would put a ball in one place and it sucks it in and sends it through the pipes and out another hole. He was fascinated!

My cousin Brent is just got engaged to Nikki! She works at the museum. Isn't she BEAUTIFUL?! Our family adores her!! We had so much fun touring the museum with her!

Checking out her groceries

Poor bear was sick

I remember the old library being here in this building and the huge globe was once in this place. Now they have replaced it with a really cool jungle gym! Dad was a trooper and climbed through it with Luke and Madison!

Milking Bessie the cow

Having a little lunch break in the kitchen :)

In the construction zone...they loved turning the wheel and watching the brick go up, up, up, then drop down! We were here for a while doing this over and over!

Luke's turn.....oh that face....love him!

I have a video of this and if I can ever figure out how to post movies on here I will. It was karaoke! They sang Wheels on the Bus, ABC's, Old McDonald Had a Farm, and Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. I will cherish those videos forever! There sweet little voices were precious!!!!

Water, water, everywhere!!!

Thank you Papa Don for coming with us to PLAY!

We also made Cheerio cereal necklaces!

Luke may have snuck 1 or 2 to eat!

Lake Weekend at the Lee's

2011-09-06T19:16:00.000-07:00

We spent the last weekend in August at the lake with friends. Bruce and Lauren invited our family along with the Epting's, Vickery's, Pascazio's (but the stomach bug kept them from coming), and Michael Wright and Margaret to join them. We had a great time watching all the kids play! Here are some pictures from our weekend :)

Do these faces look innocent to you??

A lot of little mouths to feed!

Do they get any cuter??? I could take her home with us! Campbell is adorable!

It is funny how they start up their own games! They were running up and down this hall! Then we would yell things like 'hands up' or 'stomp' and they would come down the hall doing it. Really funny and it entertained them for a while!

Kid group picture (top: James and Campbell, bottom: Luke, Ellison, Madison, Parker)

We went to check out the water Friday night before bed

Madison thought it was time to skinny dip...oh the things her daddy teaches her!

When the kids are down, we don't mess around! Just Dance time!! Mr. McLovin' it was getting it done!

I really have 30 of these pictures!!! Great faces guys!

Matthew once again marching to the beat of his own drum

Good morning! Madison thought Jonathan needed to hold her babies for the picture :)

Hannah braided Madison and Campbell's hair! Oh I need to learn!!! So cute!

These sweet girls had to stick together!

Madison loves her some Bertie!

"Can we go out now??"

The water was pretty chilly!

Luke going on a jet ski ride!

Madison's turn

I love this picture of Luke and Maggie!

Just relaxing

A fun, surprise visit from Julie, Chris, and their precious new baby Charlie! It was so great to meet him and see Julie as a mom! She is perfect for the job!

Rub a dub dub! Our weekend wouldn't be complete with out a community tub :)

Luke and Parker practicing their ABC's

They even found some time to enjoy some books in the hallway!

I love this picture because I have one just like it when I was little with my dad's feet!!!

A quick swim before we headed home Sunday

What they come up with! They said they were 'fishing' with the noodles!!!

"Mommy, look what I caught!"

Thank you again Bruce and Lauren for having us up to your families lake house!

It was WONDERFUL as always!!!

Surprise!! Are We Really Turning 30??

2011-09-06T18:37:00.000-07:00

August 20th was a great day FULL of surprises! At 1:30 we had a surprise birthday lunch for my sweet friend April Ellenburg then I got right in the car and drove to Mt. Pleasant to make it to a surprise party for another precious friend, Jessica Coleman (or as I call her Mattice) that evening at 6:30. I ended up spending the night in Mt. Pleasant and going to their church Sunday morning before I drove back. I have to say that I really enjoyed the nice, quiet car ride there and back :) Jonathan was an amazing dad and husband for keeping Luke and Madison for the night so I could go be with a great friend for such a special occasion! Here are a few pictures of the day :)

April and I celebrating her 30th!!

It was so good to see Laura and Shelley and little Miss Allie!

Happy Birthday April!!!

SURPRISE!!!!!

Way to go Paul! You pulled off a great surprise!

SOOOO good to see her!

Ella and her mommy

Happy Birthday Mattice!!!

A cute slideshow...this picture makes me laugh!

After going to their amazing church, Life Park, we grabbed a quick lunch at Jack's Cosmic Dogs...YUM! It was so good! I did not want to leave them but I wanted to get back to Greenville to celebrate my sister's birthday that evening! WOW, a lot of birthday parties! I LOVED it :)

My sister's birthday was on the 21st so we had dinner at my mom's house so all the kids could play and we wouldn't get kicked out of restaurant for taking all the high chairs:)

We ate lots of cake!!!!

Jonathan's dad actually has the same birthday as my sister so Monday night they came over to our house to celebrate! So, we ate more cake!...

Opened more presents...

And spent more time with family! This is Jonathan's precious grandmother, Nanny

So apparently a lot of people were VERY thankful in November because 9 months later we have a calendar full of birthdays!!! I loved celebrating each one of them! Now if I could just freeze time because in just a week I will hit the big 3-0 :(

Greenville Drive Baseball Game

2011-09-06T18:04:00.000-07:00

The weather was perfect for a night in Downtown Greenville! We enjoyed pizza at Mellow Mushroom then walked to the Greenville Drive game! The night started off with a minor shower that canceled our picnic in Falls Park but pizza was a perfect plan B! During dinner the clouds moved on and the weather was cool and clear! We took the whole gang...Jonathan and I with Luke and Madison, my sister, Ty, Parker, Dylan, Austin, and my dad and brother (in town from Atlanta)! Our night ended with a bang too :)

Luke, Madison, and Austin catching a ride on the way to the game on Ryan, Dad, and Ty

Reedy Rip'It! Madison did not want anything to do with him!

Luke and Austin loved the Chick-fil-A cow!

Jennifer and her buddy Luke

Dad with Dylan...I love how he is just chilling!

Daddy and Madison enjoying the game

Jennifer with Parker

You can't go to a game without getting the ice cream in the plastic baseball hats! They thought they were big stuff with their own cup! Yum!

Madison sharing with Papa

Madison finishing every last drop!

Cousins with the hats on....nice sticky heads!

I am so blessed to be their mom! They are so much fun!!

So as you could tell from some of the pictures above we were sitting in the right outfield...right where the fireworks were going off!!!!!! So...it was REALLY loud AND we starting getting hit by falling debris! We quickly moved away and soon after all the kids were snuggled up to us with ears covered! Next time we will know to move away!

Madison snuggled up to her Daddy

Thank you Dad for treating us to such a great, fun night!

We had a blast celebrating B for Baseball with you!

B is for Brownies and Baseball

2011-09-05T14:15:00.000-07:00

Last week we had fun with the letter Bb. We read fun books like The Baby BeeBee Bird and Brown Bear, we ate yummy food like broccoli, biscuits, blueberries, and bologna, and we visited a bagel shop, a bakery, and went to a Greenville Drive baseball game! It was a fun week! I will say that it has been really funny working on letters because we will talk about them throughout the day and then when Jonathan comes home I will ask them to tell Jonathan about what letter we are talking about and for some reason Luke always says "U"!! So even if all of this is not sinking in at the young age of 2 it is still fun for them...and me!

Making brownies with Daddy

Luke helping Daddy stir

Yummy!

Luke and Madison enjoying their brownies on the deck

We went to Greenfield's Bagel shop with my step-dad Jackie

They thought they were big stuff sitting by themselves in the booth eating their bagels. They wanted Jackie and I to sit on one side and them on the other!

Luke, Madison, and Papa at Greenfield's

My mom kept them one day while I ran some errands and they had fun with the letter B too! They made bead bracelets, the letter B with glitter glue, and played with bubbles! Way to go Gabby!

They also enjoyed the banana and strawberry milkshake Gabby made them!

We made ABC french fries! They had fun singing their ABC's and helping me put them in order. They were cute but tasted pretty yuck!

We made bumble bee footprints! They were adorable!! Thank you Pinterest...my new addiction!

We ate alphabet soup :)

We met Daddy for lunch one day to eat barbecue at Little Pigs Bar-B-Q

We went to a local bakery called Gretchen's ABC Cakes and Bakery

Luke loved his cupcake!

Madison helped me make homemade banana bread!

"Is it done yet?"

I am not a baker but I must say that it was pretty tasty!!

Stay tuned for a post about the Greenville Drive Baseball Game!

A is for Apple

2011-08-24T07:18:00.000-07:00

With school starting back I started to get the itch! After teaching 1st grade for 6 years I miss the lesson plans and being creative on a weekly basis. So the Clayton Curriculum began :) I decided we would do a letter a week. We read a lot of fun books like Ten Apples Up On Top by Dr. Seuss and we even made a book about Adam and Eve. We sang songs like our ABC's, and The Ants Go Marching. Here are some pictures of some fun things we did with the letter Aa!

We ate yummy food like apple cinnamon oatmeal, animal crackers, applesauce, and alphabet cereal

We made the letter Aa with glue and sand

We did apple paintings by cutting an apple in half and dipping it in paint. By the time I got my camera out Luke was all done so I only captured Madison painting. They both LOVED this!

So fun!

I think Madison filled up 4 papers!

We made an alligator puppet and sang "5 Little Monkeys teasing Mr. Alligator ~Can't catch me!"

We had apple snacks with peanut butter and raisins

A is also for Aquarium!!!

I wanted to take a "field trip" each week to a place that starts with that letter. My mom, sister, her boys (Austin, Parker, and Dylan), and Luke, Madison, and I drove to Atlanta to meet my brother, Ryan, at the Georgia Aquarium!! I was AMAZED at the place! If you haven't gone yet plan a trip!

We went to the dolphin show!! It made me want to be a dolphin trainer when I grow up :)

I think God had other plans and I am glad he did!

Luke kept saying "Wow!" when the dolphins jumped out of the water

The water was reflecting on the ceiling and Madison was amazed!

So many fish!!!

Buddies

This tunnel was awesome! You walk through it with all the huge fish swimming right over your head! Sharks! Stingrays!

Getting them both to look and smile these days is a huge accomplishment :)

My favorite room! So cool! You felt like you were swimming with them!

Luke and Madison weren't too sure about being able to touch these!

Penguins!!

We got their faces painted! They both sat so still! Madison was trying to figure out all of the paintings this lady had on her :)

Luke got Nemo, Austin got a whale, and Madison was suppose to get Elmo but it looks more like a blowfish/crab!

The Aquarium had a neat playground! You could go down this huge whale slide!

The playground was a nice break so mom and Jen could feed the boys and let them get out for a few minutes. We had to have at least them contained to keep up with the other 3!!

Austin getting ready to touch the stingray!

Parker and Dylan were perfect!!! They just chilled and enjoyed all the beautiful colors and lights!

Gabby with Austin, Madison, and Luke in the fish bowl!

Austin and Luke checking out the albino alligator

These dolphins are all over Atlanta! We stopped to get our picture with one on the way out.

Just one more because these 2 are so stinkin' cute!!!

Then I tried to get Austin in on the picture and this is what happens!! Madison is done and walking away, Luke is climbing the dolphin, and Austin is trying to show the camera a toy! Oh well...

My beautiful sister and her boys

I couldn't think of a better way to end our trip than with a yummy dinner at a Mexican restaurant! Luke enjoyed the cheese dip :)

A is for All Done :) We had a great time with Uncle Ryan and the rest of the clan!
I am ready to go back!!

I Could Live on the Lake!

2011-08-16T18:06:00.000-07:00

A couple of weekends ago we went to the lake with Jonathan's family. Nancy got the house through an auction at Taylors First Baptist. We loved being with family! We had a lot of laughs and a lot of good times on the water! Here are some pictures from our weekend...

Angie and a very excited Luke

Justin giving Madison a lift

Madison was in a posey mood :)

This picture makes me laugh! Luke and Madison's faces are hilarious! Justin...at least you look good!

Luke and Madison with Nana and Papa. 3 out of 4 looking equals success!

Friday night we ate at Walhalla Steak House...yum!

Justin and I finished a puzzle!!! What a good feeling! It was so relaxing! We searched high and low for that last piece!!!!! Ahhhh!

Daddy with Luke and Madison ready for the water!! Let's go!

The Lee's were just around the cove so we stopped by for a visit. Parker wanted to climb aboard with Luke and Madison! Best buds!

After a long boat ride she was out! She is either 90 mph or this! So sweet! The funny thing is that when she woke up she starting saying "Let's go swimming!" Zero right back to 90! Love her!

One of my favorite pictures! Justin was fishing off the bank and Luke and Madison found a stick and joined him!!

Luke giving Justin a thumbs up as he surfs

One of those great ideas that turned out bad! I took Madison on the float and it didn't go so well. It was a really rough ride!!! We made it about 100 yards before I was saying DONE!!! I hope we didn't scar her!

Jonathan about to JUMP!!!!

Luke telling Remington to "shhhh"

My FAVORITE part of the lake house! There was a big sun room with this swing!! So relaxing, so wonderful! What a great way to wake up in the morning...the sight of the water, the sunrise, these kids! It doesn't get any better than this!

Bubye July

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

Here are just a few other things we were up to in July...

Madison loves to dress up in her tutu skirt and Snow White heals. She is also in a phase where she loves to do my hair and she gives amazing manicures and pedicures! She is SO funny doing it!

We had a garage sale this past weekend! Austin sold donuts to raise money for his trip to Disney World! Luke and Madison helped Austin close the sales :) How could you say no to these 3 sweet faces?!?!?

Luke ate 2 donuts!! I think in this picture he has one and a half in his mouth!!!

We have done a lot of painting!

There may or may not have been a little bit of whining going on too. Did I mention I have two 2 year olds right now?

We have made a lot of messes in July and loved every minute of it!

Bubye July....Hello August! Can't wait to see what fun you bring!

Feels Like Home

2011-08-01T08:49:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, we enjoyed a weekend on the lake! On Monday, my mom and I made a spontaneous trip to Clemson with Luke and Madison. Both places, the lake and Clemson, feel like home to me! I love getting away and visiting both! Here are some pictures from our nice long weekend...

The new thing I love for Madison...headbands! It keeps all those little baby hairs out of her face! I think she looks adorable in them too!

Luke and Papa feeling the water

We pulled under the bridge to eat lunch. Jonathan was relaxing and mini me came to join him!

Sweet, silly girl giving me kisses

Jonathan headed back to Greenville Sunday night for youth group and because he had to work on Monday. Mom and I stayed at the lake house one more night (why not!). We woke up Monday morning with nothing on our agenda then decided to drive into Clemson. We had a GREAT time! I don't feel like I get to go to Clemson often to just walk around and enjoy it. It seems like we always driving in for a game. We had a wonderful time walking around, going in the stores, eating lunch downtown, and walking around Bowman field!

Mom bought Luke a football and Madison an adorable Clemson doll cheerleader. Thanks Gabby!

Oh Tillman...where I spent most of my days! :)

I took this picture, looked down at it, and teared up because in a split second I could see us dropping them off at college (fingers crossed Clemson) and saying goodbye :(

What a fun day! What a fun weekend!

Discovery Island Water Park

2011-08-01T08:21:00.000-07:00

My mom and I took Luke, Madison, and Austin to Discovery Island Water Park in Simpsonville last week. I have always wanted to see what it is like! Who knew places like this existed outside of Myrtle Beach?? We had a great time! It was a little crazy with Luke and Madison still being little. They loved it and played so hard with their cousin!

Gabby with Austin, Luke, and Madison

Taking a break for a snack

Luke showing us how he could fall down and put his face under water

Playing in the fountain

Gabby and Madison playing in the fountain

Luke played his pants right off!

I can't say enough how much I love watching these two boys play!

Madison exploring

Austin showing Luke and Madison how to hold their breath under water

They had 2 big slides but I didn't get any pictures of us going down those! You can hold a small child in your lap when you go down the tube one! We also enjoyed the lazy river but I didn't get a picture of that either :( If you live in the area and you haven't gone I would recommend it! Bring your lunch!

Good times for sure!!

Teresa and Eric

2011-07-27T10:13:00.000-07:00

My good friend Brenna, who lives in Columbia, had a friend getting married and was looking for a photographer. She called me! How fun! Sarah (with Bliss Photography) and I headed down to Columbia on June 26th to do their wedding. We had a great time and really enjoyed this BEAUTIFUL wedding! Thank you Teresa and Eric for letting us capture your day! Here are a few of my favorites!

Beautiful cake made by Brenna and Emily

Seeing her dad was so emotional...loved this moment!

Quinn and Riley did a great job!

I love the joy on their faces!

Geoff and Brenna with Quinn and Riley

Congratulations Teresa and Eric!

We are so excited for you both!

Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Briggs

2011-07-27T06:00:00.001-07:00

Josh and Jonathan grew up together. They were even in kindergarten together! Josh has been a great friend to Jonathan and I for a long time! We were so excited for him when he met Jennifer. They are a perfect match! Jonathan was the best man in his wedding on July 16th at the Ryan Nicholas Inn. We had a great time celebrating with them! Here are some of my favorite pictures :)

Don't they all look so relaxed! Rehearsal time!

Jennifer ready to walk down the isle! I loved the director/owner of the Ryan Nicholas Inn...she was all business and knew how to run it!

Tomorrow you will be doing the real thing!

Wedding day!! Nana and Papa came too! Madison had to carry Nana's purse :)

LOVE this picture of them!

Here comes the beautiful bride!

Seeing her groom :)

Josh's parents and grandparents

Exchanging rings. We were up with balcony with Luke and Madison. We had Nana, Papa Neves, Gabby, and Papa Jackie up with us too! Luke and Madison did great! They said "Hey Daddy" a few times but it was cute! I had a lot of snacks to keep them quite but then I was afraid they were going to drop the over the railing on someone!

Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Briggs

Beginning their new life together!

First dance...she looks so happy!

Love this one :)

Gabby and Papa Jackie with Luke and Madison...love it!

Luke and his Papa

Madison and her Papa

Beautiful, yummy cake!

Luke and Madison sitting and listening to Daddy give the best man speech!

Jonathan did great!

Dancing with her daddy

Great friends for a LONG time! We are really looking forward to a lot more memories with Josh and Jennifer!

Luke and Madison with the bride and groom

This picture makes me tear up because I feel like we are going to turn around and they will be having a father/daughter dance at her wedding....oh stop it!

This is how our family picture turn out now :) Madison not looking, Luke singing, and me telling mom how to work my camera. At least Jonathan looks good!

Easy Josh! There are kids watching!

Cute!

Congratulations Josh and Jennifer!!! We love you guys!

Sweating Like Pigs

2011-07-14T07:26:00.000-07:00

Luke, Madison, and Alli OH MY! This past week, on the hottest day of the week, Carrie and I decided to take the kids to the zoo. We had a great time seeing all the animals and watching the kids play together. The zoo has a great water mister that the kids can run through to cool off and I think Carrie and I both came very close to running through it!! The kids were soaked but were cool :) Here are a few pictures from our morning...

It is always fun to try and get 3 two year olds to stand still, smile, and look at the camera!

Checking out the ducks

Giraffe!

I think they were worn out by this point! They all look a little sweaty and tired :)

Madison feeding the goat

Luke feeding the goat...up close and personal!

I think the goats were pretty full and they were not wanting too many crackers. Luke just kept yelling, "Come here goat!" as loud as he could!

Luke and Alli were done! They opted to ride and relax :)

We enjoyed our day at the zoo and a yummy lunch at Chick-Fil-A with you guys!

Thanks for hanging out with us!