markland mayhem

Chillin'

2012-02-11T10:59:00.000-08:00

This is something we don't get to do very much of- just CHILL at home. It was so nice to just hang out and play in the yard for a few hours and NOT have to be ANYWHERE! I think we might have a chance to do this again sometime in June.

Check out Murphy's "D"

The Story of our lives right now- SOCCER!

My favorite Murphy PANTS- i just LOVE all the vehicles and so does he!

On Your Mark, Get Set, GOOOOOO!!!

2012-02-09T08:55:00.000-08:00

And so it begins.... Spring Soccer Season

Hadley's U9 team

Reese with a header

So here is the breakdown:

Hadley- U9 club team

Reese- U12 club team, ODP team

Carson- U13 club team, JV team, ODP team

This translates on average into roughly 12 practices and 8 games (sometimes more if there is a tournament) per week. That is a lot of SOCCER! Not to mention a lot of driving to and from the soccer fields! Yes, I am officially a SOCCER MOM and yes, I am obnoxious!

For the LOVE of the Game

2012-02-06T10:53:00.000-08:00

Brett is in LOVE! No, not with a girl but with a game. He LOVES Basketball. He is constantly shooting, dribbling passing and talking trash about his abilities on the court. He has become Griffin's understudy and he tries to copy Griffin's game. He goes to all of Griffin's games to study so that he can become the next basketball star in the family- we just hope he grows a little because as of now he is always the smallest guy on the court. He definitely gets an "A" for effort and attitude.

You've Got the Look!

2012-02-06T10:44:00.000-08:00

Whit has started picking out his own clothes. This is the combo he put together on Sunday:

Plaids and Stripes!!!

Collecting sticks as usual and notice the shorts and t'shirt and bare feet- it was 80 degrees on SuperBowl Sunday!!! I hope his fashion sense improves with age or he might be going straight to Florida with all of the retirees.

Damn You Punksatony Phil!!!

2012-02-03T11:15:00.000-08:00

We saw our shadows, too! BUMMER! Although, I can handle 6 more weeks of winter if it stays like this. But, I digress. It seems from my last few posts I have become OBSESSED with the weather so I will talk about it no further. Instead I will relate my life to GROUNDHOG'S DAY- the movie, not the weather forecasting rodent. It seems that I am living that movie. My life consists of the same thing day after day after day:

wake up, empty dishwasher, laundry, get kids up, feed them breakfast, "encourage" them to get dressed, brush teeth, comb hair, put on shoes, pack bags, get in car, drop said kids at various schools, come home, clean up dishes, exercise, more laundry, vacuum, clean what is MOST dirty, clean up messes little guys have made while I have been cleaning somewhere else, "encourage" little guys to get dressed, brush teeth, comb hair, go outside to play, swing, play in sand, collect sticks, walk around court in wagon, do chalk, make forts, pretend to be cowboys, collect more sticks (I think we are going to have a massive bonfire one of these days), jump on trampoline, throw ALL of the balls down the hill, collect all of the balls, "encourage" little guys to come in to eat lunch, feed them lunch, clean up from lunch, nap time for Murphy if we are lucky, Whit watches a show, I run around trying to finish something before the first wave returns from school, first bus arrives, "encourage" kids to do homework, "encourage" some more, get snacks, clean up snacks, second bus arrives, more "encouraging", more snacks, more cleaning up, break up a few quarrels, try to keep track of who is where as my house becomes a cacophony of slamming doors, cries for assistance, feet running up and down and up and down the stairs, phones ringing, requests for playmates, questions to homework problems, complaints about a lack of snack choices, more phones ringing with requests for rides home from practice, struggle to get wild beasts in carseats to pick up the other members of the pack, get home and try to assemble some sort of nourishment while keeping track of little people running amuck inside and out, throw food at beasts, "encourage" said beasts to get ready for practices, a continued cacophony of "where are my cleats, my gray shirt, my black shorts, can you fix my hair....., back in the car for another round of driving in circles, back home to "encourage" those NOT at practice to get clean- yes, please use soap and remember to use a towel to dry off before you run through the house creating puddles and a very slippery floor, "encourage" those at home to get in pj's- yes, please wear underwear, give them a "last" snack, clean up snack, wrestle them back in car for another circle around town to collect wandering pack members, get home, "encourage" more showers- using soap and towels, more snacks, more cleaning, stories for some, computer or tv for others, "encourage" teeth brushing, getting in bed and lights out, start dishes, finish laundry, "encourage" myself to get clean, pj's on, brush teeth, but instead I usually collapse in a heap and realize I get to do this ALL over again in 8 SHORT hours!!!

I realize this was the MOTHER of all run-on sentences but that is how my day(s) feel. One task after another with no end in sight. At least it all ended for Bill Murray in 2 hours- if only I could be so lucky!!!

Go Take a Hike!

2012-01-31T11:45:00.000-08:00

Whit ALWAYS collecting sticks!

Murphy ALWAYS with a ball in his hand!

TREASURE! or a rock.

Real TREASURE- A BALL!!!

Whit's Moss Bed

DANDELIONS!!!

Not sure if they taste very good??!!

Our hikes usually take us to the playground.

Taking a break before the LONG walk home- Murphy usually lucks out and gets carried!

Just a quick SHOUT OUT to Mother Nature! Keep up the good work! It continues to be LOVELY for January. I can't thank you enough for sparing me from a month of FRIGID temps- and by frigid I do mean anything below 60. We have been in the upper 60's and 70's for the past week and I am loving it!

Here Comes the SUN!!!

2012-01-24T11:18:00.000-08:00

Ok! This is what I am talking about- Mother Nature is listening and she FINALLY brought me my sunshine- HOLLA! Nothing "brightens" my mood like a warm, sunny day in January. We have been outside all morning enjoying the fresh air. Please, Mother Nature, keep the weather just like it is for the rest of the winter (wishful thinking)!

looking for that darn ball!

found it!

there it goes again!

I am going to get that ball if it's the last thing I do!

See! Here it is!

Murphy enjoying being outside with all of his balls where he can throw them and chase them to his hearts content without getting yelled at.

Rain is a Good Thing?

2012-01-23T11:10:00.000-08:00

Unless you have a pack of restless kids that NEED to be outside!!!

January is or "Rainy Season" it seems. It has been wet and chilly and down right YUCKY for the last week. My kids are not good "inside" kids especially Whit and Murphy. They need fresh air and the freedom to run so that they don't kill each other or destroy my house! Some days it has been too chilly and wet to venture out but we have been able to put our new boots to use on the few days it has been warm enough to be outside despite the rain. Hoping for a few more sunny days in the near future!!!

Greatest Show on Earth?!

2012-01-23T10:56:00.000-08:00

Gram and Grandpa took us (most) to the circus this weekend. We felt right at home with all the noise, wild animals roaming about, trapeze artists flipping around, clowns making a mess and tight rope walkers precariously balancing their very lives on a thin rope, one step away from going over the edge- boy can I relate! I never realized how much my very own life mirrors that of a circus! Needless to say, we fit right in and had fun watching it. Now it is back to our own three ring circus at home!

Welcome Back, Welcome Back, Welcome Back!!!

2012-01-21T04:19:00.000-08:00

Waiting anxiously for the buses to arrive

They're Here!!!

Hey Dad! It's Nice to finally meet you!!!

Happy family together at last!

WELCOME HOME PATRICK!

My brother-in-law, Patrick returned home from a 6 month deployment in Afghanistan. It was a wonderful day for all of us but especially for my sister Kalyn who has been missing and worrying about her husband for the past 1/2 year and especially wonderful for my nephew, Gunnar who FINALLY got to meet his DAD!!!

The Most Wonderful Day of the Week- At least for Murphy

2012-01-19T11:41:00.000-08:00

TRASH DAY

Murphy LOVES Wednesday because that is TRASH DAY at our house. He gets so excited to see that big yellow truck. We are usually outside when they come and we have to follow them around the court so he can get his "Trash Truck Fix". He waves and squeals with delight as he watches the truck do its thing. Wouldn't it be nice if we could all be so happy with such simple things- I know my credit card bill would be a lot less if I could find HAPPINESS in seeing the trash truck!

Murphy @ 21 months

2012-01-15T11:00:00.000-08:00

Always on the move!

LOVES his trains- especially the battery powered "THOMAS"

LOVES that "PABA" (pacifier)

Fascinated by his reflection- a little "Narcissus" in the making

Murphy is full of himself these days! He seems to be following closely in Whitaker's foot steps when it comes to trouble making. His favorites are pouring cereal all over the sofa for the dogs, dumping out the dogs water bowl, emptying the contents of the trash can on the kitchen floor and eating any scraps that look tasty, head butting everyone in sight, throwing balls and anything else he feels like inside the house knocking over lamps, pictures and anything else in the way, pouring out open drinks left on the table, dumping the 800,000 piece LEGO box out, emptying the ball bucket outside so he can watch all of the balls (we have a lot of balls) roll down the hill, pulling the dogs tails and generally being BAD! He has also started his "SPEECH ENCOURAGEMENT" sessions and is starting to mumble a few more coherent words. The kid can't/won't say mom but he can say HAMBURGER- go figure! He still enjoys playing outside- swinging, digging, riding his bike, jumping on the trampoline and running as fast as he can down the hill until he falls. He also loves his trucks and trains and is starting to enjoy reading a few books- he has a few favs that I can now recite in my sleep! His favorite food this month is definitely YOGURT! He must eat 3-4 a day and thankfully it is not upsetting his once sensitive belly. Speaking of bellies- he LOVES to show his off and check out yours so if you are ever around be prepared for Murphy to lift up your shirt so he can check out your 6 pack! He continues to give me a run for my money and at the end of the day I am worn out but he is a little blessing that makes us complete.

FREE AT LAST, FREE AT LAST

2012-01-10T19:37:00.000-08:00

We have started taking the gate that blocks the stairs down every so often to give Murphy a chance to "practice" going up and down without killing himself. He LOVES his new found freedom and thinks it is great fun to go up and down and up and down and up and down.....

Same old Same Old Around Here!

2012-01-10T19:33:00.000-08:00

And so it continues... Boys being Boys! I think I have a lot years ahead of me watching this interaction among the little boys. Right now Whit is clearly the aggressor but Murphy is hot on his tail. Poor Brett, he is older than both of them but he takes the brunt of their punishment because he is too nice and loving to retaliate and put them in their place.

Birthday Boy

2012-01-07T12:41:00.000-08:00

Today is the day 17 years ago that changed who I was forever! Today, 17 years ago, I became a MOTHER! Since that fateful day I have changed countless diapers, bandaged countless boo-boos, refereed countless fights, made countless meals, driven to countless activities, helped with countless projects, dried countless tears, issued countless timeouts, played CANDYLAND a countless number of times, watched countless games/programs, read countless kids books, done countless loads of laundry, been called MOM a countless number of times because no one knows that I have a "real" name- I am just "fill in the blank's" MOM!

I have also received countless kisses, hugs and LOVE! Been given countless cards and gifts proclaiming me "The BEST MOM in the World! I have been given countless opportunities to smile and laugh. Countless opportunities to watch growth and success. Countless compliments on the wonders of my offspring. And Countless times to just be a MOM- something I will cherish being for the rest of my life thanks to Griffin's entrance in to this world 17 years ago.

Hadley's Year in Review

2012-01-06T06:38:00.000-08:00

Hadley's 2011 Highlights:

Completed Level 5 Gymnastics
Played in 1st Academy soccer tournament and her team won 1st place (St Patty's Day Cup)
Retired from gymnastics to play travel soccer (at least for now)
Finished 3rd grade/started 4th grade
Continued to be a social butterfly- too many parties and playmates to count!
Expert on "Disney Channel" shows
lover of POPCORN- she has single handedly kept "Orville Redenbacher" in business

BRRRR!!!

2012-01-04T16:06:00.000-08:00

I HATE cold weather. My car thermometer read 18 degrees this morning- I do NOT do 18 degrees- especially when it was 70 three days ago. I thank my lucky stars that I live where I live and I only have to endure the cold for a few days instead of months on end. Bring on the heat and humidity.

Reese's Year in Review

2012-01-03T06:37:00.000-08:00

2011 Highlights:

Played hundreds of hours of soccer
Player of the Year (U-10 team)
Moved up to a U-12 team for fall season
Made ODP U-11 developmental team
Finished elementary school
Started middle school
Straight A student- Principal's honor roll all of elementary school
Electronics/technology junkie
Has a love of her own hair (it is very pretty!)
LOVES colorful cleats
HATES mornings

Anti-climatic

2012-01-02T18:04:00.000-08:00

We are NOT New Year's Eve people. I need sleep WAY too much to stay up until midnight (I am lucky if I make it until 9:00). This New Year's Eve was no different. Despite my kids pleas for sparklers and noise makers as the clock struck 12- we were in bed by 9. I know- I am a party pooper! Maybe when ALL of my kids sleep in and I can wake up when I want to I will be more willing to "ring" in the New Year. We did however get to spend the day outside because the weather was beautiful! We also got to visit with Kimmy and Gram and Grandpa made us a yummy dinner!

Dinner @ Gram's

Whit's dinner: M&M's!

Cowboy Hat?

2012-01-01T18:46:00.000-08:00

"A Cowboy isn't a Cowboy without his hat" according to Whit. He had on his cowboy vest and chaps and was in need of a hat to complete the look. This is the closest thing we had to a "cowboy" hat- luckily Whit wasn't too picky as long as he had a hat.

Head Over Heels

2011-12-30T05:42:00.000-08:00

ONE

TWO

THREE

The girls have been getting their exercise on the trampoline over break. They have been perfecting a "routine" where they incorporate a synchronized front flip- not easy for 3 girls on a 12' trampoline. They seem to have it down and no one has gotten kicked in the face (yet)- SUCCESS!

Carson

Hadley

Reese

The Art of Eating a Gingerbread House

2011-12-30T05:30:00.000-08:00

We spent 30 minutes decorating these little houses before Christmas and the boys spent 2 days trying to pick off and eat all of the candy that was glued on with that NASTY icing. For some reason SUGAR in any form is very tempting to little boys. They managed to get most of the candy off and even ate the candy that came with the gingerbread kits that has probably been sitting in a box since the early 2000's- GROSS!!!

Murphy's 1st Haircut

2011-12-27T04:24:00.000-08:00

BEFORE

AFTER

We broke down and got Murphy's hair cut for the first time! He was getting a little shaggy so I gave in and let Poppy take him to the barber shop. I think they did a pretty good job and now we can see his eyes again!

It's A Wrap

2011-12-27T04:13:00.000-08:00

We made it! Another Christmas in the books. The kids had a GREAT morning and received a boat load of presents (I think Santa forgot to update his "NAUGHTY" list before he left the North Pole because of few kids around here were teetering on the edge the last few weeks!). We are definitely keeping APPLE in business- must be the cute logo because if we see that little apple on anything we will buy it! As usual the tree and decorations were down and packed away by lunch and I can BREATHE again! I know I am a total Scrooge but it feels so good to get all the clutter out after a LONG holiday season. Next up a NEW YEAR and my January calendar already looks pretty full- what's new?

We Wish You a Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T03:41:00.000-08:00

From our house to yours- Merry Everything!!!

We Are Family...I've Got All My Sisters and Me

2011-12-24T05:50:00.000-08:00

Celebrating Christmas a little early @ Mimi and Bepa's house with Kalyn, Kimmy and Gunnar

P.S. Thanks for ALL of our goodies!!!

Nutcracker and Holiday Merriment @ Our House

2011-12-21T06:08:00.000-08:00

Nothing says Christmas like tye dye t'shirts

Griffin's one contribution to holiday decorating: putting the ANGEL on top of the tree

So busy around here like everywhere. We have been busy with our sports(basketball, soccer, flag football etc.) but we have managed to squeeze in a few holiday activities. We have a tree (good start), baked and eaten some cookies, gone to see "THE NUTCRACKER", written letters to Santa and listened to as much Christmas music as I can tolerate (I am a bit of a Scrooge so I can't take very much of it). Now we just have to finish shopping and wrapping a few things and then we can wrap this whole holiday up on Sunday!!!

Murphy @ 20 months

2011-12-21T04:11:00.000-08:00

Murphy continues to grow and do new things as he approaches 2. He is VERY active and BUSY (that means BAD). He is constantly getting into "trouble" and is a walking demolition crew. He dumps the dogs' water bowl out at least once a day. He unrolls toilet paper rolls, gets into the pantry and empties what he can reach onto the kitchen floor, pours out bottles of shampoo on the carpet, dumps puzzle boxes everywhere etc. He lays in wait hoping someone will leave a full drink on the table so he can go and knock it over. He gets into the dog food and grabs handfuls and runs around the house with the dogs in hot pursuit as he tosses pieces on the floor for them to eat. He is definitely a handful! Thankfully he is cute or he would be looking for a new home. Let's hope he is hitting the "Terrible 2's" early because if it gets more "terrible" I might explode.

Look Who's 7!!!

2011-12-15T04:06:00.000-08:00

Brett was the BEST early Christmas gift we ever received. He has always been a SUPER boy! He is so sweet and smart and kind. He is a little sensitive but I hear the girls really dig that type! He loves his sports and works so hard everyday to get better- always throwing, kicking, shooting etc. We are so luckily to have him as our son and brother!

Sleep in Heavenly Peace

2011-12-14T09:51:00.000-08:00

This doesn't happen very often but when it does it is GLORIOUS!

"I am NEVER Wearing Clothes Again!"

2011-12-12T11:27:00.000-08:00

This was Whit's proclamation this morning and Murphy hopped right on the NAKED train with him (excuse any frontal views- I was just trying to film there little naked bums running around)

Elfcapades

2011-12-12T11:23:00.000-08:00

So our elf, Elmer has been with us for a week now. He has made himself at home but has not caused any real mayhem- no more than usual anyway! He has gotten to be good friends with our other elves, Callie, Mabel and Olivia. They have had lots of fun in the wee hours of the night while the rest of us are asleep. This is what they have been up thus far:

1. playing Candyland and finishing up the left over Halloween candy
2. snowball fight on the train table
3. making cookies and snow angels in the flour
4. dressing up as "SUPER ELVES" and flying around the house
5. hiding in the Christmas tree
6. movie night (they watched "ELF" of course
7. camp fire and roasted marshmallows
8. bungee jumping off of the balcony

Who knows what this week will bring? Stay tuned- I just hope it isn't messy!

Heartbreaker X 2

2011-12-08T11:57:00.000-08:00

Two more games, two more heartbreaking loses. Griffin played great in both games but so far this season his team digs themselves into a hole in the first half, mounts a huge comeback in the second half but then falls just short at the end of the game. Hopefully, they will get over the hump in their next game so they have some confidence going in to regional play next week. Griffin has been moved to point guard because he seems do be the only one who can get the ball up the court without turning it over. Here's hoping that helps!

Separated at Birth?

2011-12-07T18:25:00.000-08:00

I think Murphy is the spitting image of a Kewpie doll! What do you think?

Peace on Earth?

2011-12-05T11:52:00.000-08:00

Not at my house:

With 4 boys it is like WRESTLEMANIA at any given moment around here. There is always some sort of physical challenge going on and yes it usually ends up with tears and a timeout. There are lots of chicken wings, head butts, body slams and wedgies that occur but no major injuries yet so we will be thankful for that!

Elf in the House

2011-12-05T10:01:00.000-08:00

Our elf "Elmer" (aka Zippy) finally arrived! We woke up on Sunday morning and found him stuck in our pear tree. Santa had warned us that elves were not very good at landing their balloons and he was right. Elmer even brought us some of the candy canes that he made at the North Pole because he is a candy cane making elf. He was greeted by squeals of excitement and given LOTS of affection. Luckily, he is NOT one of the elves that losses his magic if you touch him because he would have none left! I will keep you up to date on Elmer's antics as they unfold.

"Love and a (S)Cooter"

2011-12-05T09:42:00.000-08:00

When I asked Whit what he wanted for Christmas he replied:

"Just Love and a Cooter" (scooter)

Easy enough!

Elf Mail

2011-12-02T02:50:00.000-08:00

We have a bit of an obsession around her at Christmas with those crazy Christmas ELVES!
Hadley desperately wants a mischievous little sprite who will reek havoc on our home at night while we slumber so she can be entertained by his antics when she wakes up (and then I will have to clean up any devastation that has been created- YEAH!). She wrote or wished for one and Santa replied with this:

Oh Goodie! So we followed the instructions and returned our "Elf Order Form":

Now we are waiting for our little Christmas friend to arrive any day now and start filling our home with mischief and mayhem- like we don't have enough of that going on already!!!

Pants on the Ground

2011-12-01T11:37:00.000-08:00

Murphy is OBSESSED with pulling his pants down! He thinks it is hilarious to pull them down to his ankles and then he takes off running until they trip him (NOT very smart- i know!). He does it mostly with his pajama pants (I guess because they are loose) and he even managed to get them all the way off while strapped in his car seat the other day- some Houdini!

Opening Night

2011-11-30T12:05:00.000-08:00

Pre-game Instructions

Tip-Off

Charge #1

Charge #2

3 Pointer

Crisp Pass

Griffin had his first Varsity Game last night. He played so GOOD but his team ended up losing a close one so he was disappointed. He finished the game with 10 points, 2 steals a couple assists and took 3 charges. Hopefully he can repeat his performance in the next game and his team can get a W!

SPANKED!!!

2011-11-27T05:30:00.000-08:00

CAROLINA V. CLEMSON

Griffin and I were lucky enough to get to go to the Carolina/Clemson football game. A perfect way to end the Thanksgiving weekend- especially when the COCKS kick Clemson's behind!!! Cocks won 34-13 and end the regular season 10-2. GO COCKS!!!

Cousins

2011-11-27T05:21:00.000-08:00

We got to visit with our cousins Cole, Jake and Emma over Thanksgiving. We don't get to see them very often due to crazy, busy schedules but it is always nice to be able to spend a little time together. The kids had fun playing outside and were kind enough to endure a "photo shoot".

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-26T12:03:00.000-08:00

Over the River and Through the Woods

2011-11-23T05:35:00.000-08:00

The weather has been awesome around here so we have been spending a lot of time al fresco. The yard can get a little boring so when we need a change of scenery we head to the trails. We always find a new place to explore and the walk expends some of "our" undying energy.

And the Award Goes To....

2011-11-21T09:09:00.000-08:00

CARSON MARKLAND!!!

Carson has been very busy collecting awards and certificates at school this fall. She is a very hard worker and her school work and success is VERY important to her. She does get a little too stressed at times and we try to get her to put things in perspective so she doesn't give herself an ulcer but we do appreciate her desire to succeed. So far she has been recognized for:

-a perfect score on her end of course exam in algebra (a high school class she took in 7th
grade)

-a perfect score on her PASS exam (an end of year exam they take to exit their current grade)

-Principle's Honor Roll (straight A's)

-DUKE TIP Scholar where she scored high enough on the ACT to be accepted to college now if she were 18.

-Silver Fox (school mascot) Student of the Month

I am not trying to BRAG but we are very proud of her and I realize that this has NOTHING to do with me! It is all her and I take none of the credit. And while she may have all these "perfect" scores she is still acts like a typical "teenager" from time to time!

"FAMOUS SMILE"

2011-11-20T04:49:00.000-08:00

Carson took Whit on a nature walk and was taking some pictures of him. He kept giving her this "goofy" smile and when Carson asked him what he was doing he said:

"This is my FAMOUS SMILE"

Run and Jump (and wear your little butts out!)

2011-11-19T04:14:00.000-08:00

We FINALLY have enough leaves to make a decent pile. The little kids had an early release day this week and it was nice and warm so we played outside and jumped in the leaves. It quickly became a full contact event (like everything around here) but no one got hurt so we'll call it a good day!

Commando

2011-11-17T09:47:00.000-08:00

This is how Whit spends most of his day: COMMANDO meaning sans underwear! He just can't be bothered with putting them on- way too time consuming. I told him the other day that I was "tired of him being naked" and he quickly responded: "Well, I am tired of you being dressed". Maybe we should just move to a nudist colony!

Murphy @ 19 months

2011-11-17T09:36:00.000-08:00

19 months:

likes: garbage truck

trampoline

hot wheels

making messes

going outside

music playing mini hummer truck

truck book

dislikes: getting his teeth brushed

having things taken away from him (knives,
scissors, paint, screwdrivers etc.)

wearing clothing

wearing shoes

going inside

Moonlight Madness

2011-11-11T06:51:00.000-08:00

Let the games begin!

Basketball season is underway. Griffin's team has a new coach who is working their butt's off and bringing a lot of excitement and enthusiasm to the program (thank goodness). One thing he came up with to get the students excited was to have a "Moonlight Madness" preseason exhibition that incorporated a 3 point shooting contest, dunk contest, hot shot contest and some performances from the step team, dance team and cheerleaders. Griffin was in the 3 point contest and he WON! At one point he made 11 shots in a row. It was very fun and we are hoping that it is the start of a good season.

Soccer Stud

2011-11-07T09:48:00.000-08:00

Well, Brett has 1 more game left for the fall season so I thought I needed a few pictures of him playing since I hadn't taken any of him yet. His team is AWESOME which means we crush every other team and therefore it gets a little boring because we have to take players off of the field and play with fewer so the other teams have a chance to at least get it past midfield. In the last game he played 3 vs. 6 in one quarter and his team still outscored the other team by a few goals. I guess his team is like the 6 year old version of the "Dream Team". After soccer he moves onto flag football- we'll see how that goes- probably not as good as soccer since he has never played football before!

Classics

2011-11-04T10:57:00.000-07:00

Classic Toys:

Hot Wheels and a Doll House.

Murphy loves to play with the cars and tracks that we have. He will sit and zoom those cars around all morning. Whit enjoys playing with the doll house that we have had since Carson was 2. It is a pretty exciting house where not only the "Loving Family" resides but where they often take in wayward action heros who need a warm meal and place to rest their heads before their next battle to save the world. The other day Whit put the "Mom" in her minivan and announced that she was moving to Georgia so the "Dad" was now in charge- sounds like a good plan!

Feels Like I'm Falling for Fall

2011-11-04T10:46:00.000-07:00

It is just starting to feel like fall around these parts. We have a few trees that have started losing their leaves so we raked up the few that were on the ground so we could jump in a leaf pile. Thankfully, Whit is still small because our pile was pretty small and pathetic.

Indoctrination

2011-11-02T09:51:00.000-07:00

Whit has started to introduce Murphy to his happy world of "show" watching. Murphy doesn't stay long but he will catch a minute or two of "Cat and the Hat" or "Curious George".

Teenage Werewolf

2011-11-01T11:28:00.000-07:00

Griffin's hair was getting a bit long so he decided to "gel"it up just for fun. When he came out of the bathroom we all burst into laughter. I think he looks like a werewolf, he says it is the"TEBOW" look. You decide.

footnote: he has gone back to the crewcut as of Sunday

My Ghouls and Boo...ys (thanks for the title mimi)

2011-10-31T18:37:00.000-07:00

Reese the Paper Doll

Super Whit

Brett as Luigi

Hadley as Gypsy Girl

Carson as Nerd

Murphy as very unhappy Baby Pumpkin

Halloween 2011

Let the WILD Rumpus Begin!!!

2011-10-31T05:50:00.000-07:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Whit and Murphy getting an early sugar fix!

Halloween's Past/A Walk Down Memory Lane

2011-10-27T10:21:00.000-07:00

Here are all the pictures of my kids from all the Halloween's we have celebrated.

Griffin 1996 Reston

Griffin 1997 Winston

Griffin and Carson 1998 Winston

Griffin & Carson 1999 Atlanta

Griffin, Carson & Reese 2000 Winston

Griffin, Carson & Reese 2001 Winston

2002 Hickory

Griffin, Carson, Reese & Hadley 2003 Asheville

Griffin, Hadley, Reese & Carson 2004 Asheville

Reese, Hadley, Carson, Griffin & Brett 2005 Asheville

Brett, Griffin, Hadley, Reese & Carson 2006 Columbia

Griffin, Reese, Brett, Carson & Hadley 2007 Columbia

Reese, Hadley, Brett, Carson, Griffin & Whit 2008 Columbia

Whit, Brett, Hadley, Griffin, Reese & Carson 2009 Columbia

Hadley, Carson, Brett, Reese & Whit 2010 Columbia

So, What to do with all these picture?

Hang them up by a ribbon and ENJOY!!!

TRUCKS!!!!

2011-10-26T11:12:00.000-07:00

Murphy just LOVES trucks. Big trucks, small trucks and every truck in between. We have several truck books and he found one on the shelf that he wants to look at all the time. In an attempt to get him talking (something I will probably regret one day) we look at the book often and point and say the names of the different trucks to see if he will repeat any of them. He just smiles and laughs! He can, however, point to certain trucks if asked. Progress.

Future Barber(S)

2011-10-26T11:05:00.000-07:00

Whit's handy work circa Oct 2011 (3 1/2 years old)

Hadley's handy work circa Jan. 2006 (3 1/2 years old)

I have 2 wannabe barbers/hairstylists. Hadley and most recently Whit took scissors to hair and ended up with some REALLY bad hair. Whit's is certainly not as bad as Hadley's MULLET but it is less than flattering. when asked why he did it he said it was because "I just wanted to look good".

FAIL!!!

Luckily, it is just hair and it will grow back eventually.

Tall Drink of Water

2011-10-25T12:09:00.000-07:00

Apparently Murphy is trending toward the tall and skinny side of the family (not my side BTW).

He had his 18 month check-up and is in the 95% for height and 10% for weight.

He is also being referred for some speech intervention (I already counted on that given his constant incoherent babble and lack of vocabulary). Another first for me in the parenting department- leave it to the 7th kid to have issues! But isn't he CUTE!!!

I'm a ROCKSTAR

2011-10-23T09:43:00.000-07:00

Whenever Murphy gets on the trampoline this is how his hair looks. Whit announced that Murphy looks like a "ROCKSTAR" when his hair is sticking straight up. I think he looks like a peacock.

Murphy @ 18 mos.

2011-10-18T11:25:00.000-07:00

ABC's of Murphy @ 18 months old:

A: adamant about what he wants

B: BALLS!!!

C: Climbs on EVERYTHING

D: Dog food- loves to eat it!

E: Escaping across the street to Gram and Grandpa's

F: Fights with me to get dressed/change his diaper/brush his teeth etc.

G: Garbage Truck- frightening yet fascinating

H: Hits mom when I remove him from something he doesn't want to be taken from

I: Into all things that are NOT toys (computer, plugs, pots, pantry, shoes, sharpies etc.)

J: Jumping on the trampoline

K: Kicks the soccer ball like a PRO

L: Lactose Intolerant

M: Mowing

N: Naps most days for 2 hours - Hallelujah

O: Outside is where it's at

P: Points at everything

Q: quick to recognize an open door and run out of it

R: Runs like Forest Gump- FAST

S: Snorts like a pig

T: Trash digger

U: Unintelligible baby babble all the time

V: Vehicles of every kind

W: Waves at everything

X: eXtremely good fast ball for a 1 year old

Y: Yells loudly

Z: zany for water- runs and attempts to de-cloth whenever he hears running water

Star Soccer Player of the Week

2011-10-17T03:26:00.000-07:00

Yes, we had another weekend filled with soccer. Since Carson hasn't been featured in any soccer posts I decided it was her week to be the STAR. She is having a good season and the "Power Pigtails" always give her a little extra POWER out there on the field, plus they help me find her in the mass of ponytails.

Thing 1 and Thing 2

2011-10-12T11:41:00.000-07:00

I think Dr. Seuss was a Psychic.

He saw into the future and witnessed the shenanigans that

take place at my house on a daily basis and thought

Whit and Murphy would be comical characters in one of his books!

I am NOT laughing!

To quote Dr. Seuss:

Thing One and Thing Two

They ran up! They ran down!...

Then those Things ran about

With big bumps, jumps and kicks

And with hops and big thumps

And all kinds of bad tricks

Now, I don't think my Thing 1 and Thing 2 have flown a kite in the house yet but that is only because we don't have a kite- memo to self:

DON'T BUY A KITE!

You've Got the Cutest Little Baby Face!

2011-10-12T11:16:00.000-07:00

Look who came to visit us!

Gunnar!

Isn't he just the cutest thing you've ever seen!?

He is almost 1 month old!

His mommy (Kalyn) is taking such good care of him while his dad (Pat) is off serving all of us in Afghanistan. Every time I see Gunnar I see Patrick. I can't wait for them to be together as a family of 3 (5 really counting the pups). Gunnar is such a sweet boy and he seems to have a good temperment. He tolerated all of the noise and commotion at my house and didn't even fuss when he was being passed around like a hot potato from cousin to cousin! But I can tell that his favorite place to be is in his momma's arms. He curled up and fell right to sleep when he got back to her.

LOVE!!!

P.S. Kalyn if you are wondering I have more photos for you from your visit and will get them out to you ASAP!

Count Down to Kickoff!

2011-10-09T06:33:00.000-07:00

Brett got to go to his 1st Gamecock football game this Saturday. He was so excited all week and he would tell me daily how many days there were until he got to go to the game. He picked a good game to go to because the COCKS won 54-3! I think that Brett needs to go every week- he must be good luck!

Picasso and Andy Warhol?

2011-10-09T04:46:00.000-07:00

Whit getting the paint just right on his brush

Another masterpiece in progress

Murphy trying it Whit's way but not working for him

Let's try it this way.....

much better- face as canvas- very environmentally friendly

Whit LOVES to paint. He paints me a new "Masterpiece" almost everyday. His favorite medium is watercolor (only paint I let him use) and he always paints very colorful pieces. Of course, Murphy likes to get in on the action, too. He finds that everything works better if it goes in his mouth first. He usually ends up eating at least one of the colors every painting session. Thankfully, watercolors are a dime a dozen!

Another Day, Another Park

2011-10-06T06:52:00.000-07:00

Murphy doesn't like to hold hands- slows him down too much!

water and mud- what could be better?

not happy about leaving the creek!

Murphy LOVES to throw things in the trash can- even if it is NOT trash!

I think I have hit every park in the greater Columbia area in the past few weeks. It is always fun to explore a new park especially one with a creek and mud. That is way better than boring old playground equipment any day! The weather has been great so we will continue to look for new places to keep us occupied during the day.

Brother (Mother), Can You Spare a Dime?

2011-10-05T10:43:00.000-07:00

Brett after he finished his laps

Hadley running/socializing with her friend

Whit and Murphy contemplating running away with all the cones on the playground

Hadley and Brett had a Fun Run at school to raise money for a new playground. Good idea in theory but I am glad it is over because now I won't be asked daily for more money to support the Fun Run. I feel like my kids have been brainwashed by the fundraising group to go home and fleece their families for money. I am so sick of school fundraisers! I don't want to sell anymore cookie dough, coupon books, wrapping paper, candles or whatever other junk some fundraising committee thinks will be a great money maker for the school. I would rather write a check at the beginning of the year and be done with it! Sorry for the vent- just had to get it out! I know I am a party pooper sometimes.

EXHAUSTED!!!

2011-10-03T10:54:00.000-07:00

1 tournament + 2 days + 3 soccer girls + 12 games = EXHAUSTED

The girls had their 1st big soccer tournament of the year. They played LOTS of soccer and are worn out (along with their parents who had to get them to all of those games which were of course at different fields around Columbia). Fortunately, the weather was PERFECT- sunny and low 70's if you can believe it! They all did very good and played GREAT all weekend.

Hadley's team finished in a tie for 1st but ended up 3rd due to # of goals scored used as a tie breaker.

Reese and Carson's teams both ended up in the Championship game with Reese's team taking 1st and Carson's team finishing 2nd. So, overall it was a fun and fruitful weekend for all three!

We're Going On a Bear Hunt...

2011-09-29T11:52:00.000-07:00

We are trying to find some free activities to keep the littles entertained while the bigs are at school and at the same time expend some energy so they aren't bouncing off the walls all day. Whit decided we needed to go on a "Bear Hunt" so we took a hike. Thankfully, no bears were found be we did have fun skipping rocks in the creek, looking for frogs and hiking up the "BIG, BIG Mountain" on the way home.

Rally Hawk

2011-09-28T03:35:00.000-07:00

Griffin and Brett are Braves fans. They have slowly watched the Braves self-destruct and lose a 9 game lead in the race for the National league wild card play-off spot. In order to "rally" the troops, Griffin decided that they needed to give Brett a "rally" mohawk. Despite my insistence that he was NOT to do it the dirty deed was executed behind my back while I was occupied with other things- playing outside with the other kids. There was a conspiracy that included the barber (Griffin) and the stylists (Carson and Reese) who "gelled" him up so the hawk looked "really beast". Thankfully, he is not completely bald on the sides so we can shave it down if necessary.

side note: It didn't seem to give the Braves any luck. They lost and are now in a tie with the Cardinals with 1 game to play!

Bubble Magic

2011-09-27T10:33:00.000-07:00

Whit and Murphy LOVE the tub. Whenever they are a little crabby or seem to have trouble listening I pop them in the tub. It gets their minds off of their "troubles" (really my troubles because in the tub they are contained for a few moments). They usually use a lot of bubbles and water and they can get a little out of control but for the most part it works wonders on their moods and attitudes plus they smell soooooo good when they are done.

Weekending

2011-09-26T10:41:00.000-07:00

Reese's productive weekend: 3 games, 4 goals

Notice: Hadley perfecting the subtle art of grabbing your opponents arm/sleeve without the ref seeing it

Murphy LOVES when we sing "Happy Birthday"

FINALLY celebrating Kevin's b-day (3 days late)

Do you think I need a trim?

The sky after a storm

Well, our weekend was busy- as always.

Recap:

high school football game

5 soccer games on Saturday

birthday party

Gamecocks football game

3 soccer games Sunday

celebrate Kevin's b-day

fall in to bed realizing the weekend is busier than the week

Born To Be Wild

2011-09-20T02:56:00.000-07:00

Whit loves his little bike. He loved it so much that he wore a big hole in the front tire. This is his new ride. A Radio Flyer Big Wheel! Like everything these days it beeps, flashes & plays music.

Pretty sporty! I am sure all of the neighborhood preschoolers are very jealous!

Super Cock Fan

2011-09-19T09:47:00.000-07:00

The Gamecocks had their home opener on Saturday night.

Griffin being the "SUPER COCK FAN" that he is brought out the body paint.

Nothing says LOVE like painting your kids chest before the big game.

In order to get the paint to dry fast Kevin brought out the leaf blower.

It was a bit chilly so Griffin screamed like a little girl during the entire process.

He says it held up pretty good but he did have to put a shirt on in the 4th quarter because it got a little nippy. I don't know if he will continue the look for the rest of the home games but the COCKS did manage to win so he might have to for good luck purposes.

Murphy @ 17 months

2011-09-18T10:55:00.000-07:00

Wild Man Murphy

Murphy pointing to his belly

One of his favorite things- the bike

Murphy is definitely all BOY!

His hair is always all over the place, he is always dirty

and he always has a bruise or scrap somewhere on his body.

He loves to be outside and he loves to ride the bike.

He even tries to bring the bike into the house so he can do some laps (the dogs LOVE that).

He is very verbal, unfortunately he speaks another language.

He has added a few words to his vocabulary that include:

NO, BUBBLE, CAR and a version of PAISLEY.

His love of balls continues and he has a pretty mean fastball- trust me I have taken a few off of my face!

He loves to wave at all the cars that drive by our house and he loves the dogs.

He does have quite a temper and is working on perfecting his tantrum.

He keeps us busy with his climbing, rearranging and reorganizing of things around the house.

Nap time and bedtime are beautiful. It gives us a chance to catch our breath and put things back in order.

He is starting to "play" with Whit but he usually ends up "messing up" something and therefore being removed from the scene. I am sure that we improve with time.

He is very BUSY but sweet so I guess we will keep him for another month!

Heaven Sent

2011-09-17T07:02:00.000-07:00

The happy family! (Pat present via Skype)

He's here!

My new nephew!

Gunnar Douglas McCreary!

He is beautiful and I was lucky enough to witness his arrival into the world!

He is our new shining star!

We love you Gunnar!

Mini Jacka$$

2011-09-13T07:42:00.000-07:00

Whit decided that it would be a good idea to go down the slide in a cardboard box. I just see this thought process spiraling out of control as he gets older and the stunts getting bigger and more dangerous.

I guess I am a facilitator since I did put the box in motion!

Are You Ready For Some Futbol?

2011-09-12T10:42:00.000-07:00

Hadley's Team

Reese's team

We spent our weekend watching a lot of this. Six games between the 3 girls- not bad except that they were in 4 different cities. This is pretty much how we will be spending every weekend for the next few months. Lots of grass stains, stinky cleats, dirt in the car, spilled water bottles and half finished Gatorades left in soccer bags so they spill and make EVERYTHING sticky! Sounds fun doesn't it! JK- they love it so I am sure we will have a GREAT fall season!

Thank You!!!

2011-09-11T07:34:00.000-07:00

Patrick & his men/women after his recent promotion in Afghanistan

To all those who are making/ have made the world a safer place

THANK YOU!!!

My Bad, Bro!

2011-09-08T09:14:00.000-07:00

Whit spraying the driveway

Whit spraying Murphy's face

It always seems to happen like this.

One minute, playing nicely.

The next minute, not so much!

I think Whit has an inner switch that goes off or maybe it is that little "Devil Whit" sitting on his shoulder whispering in his ear that he has been good for too long so now it is time to do something ornery.

He just can't seem to help himself.

So BEWARE:

A hug can quickly turn into a choke

A kiss into a bite

Any small toy into a projectile aimed at your head

A game of tag into all out rugby

Bike riding in the driveway into demolition derby

You have been warned!

Tease

2011-09-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

The past 2 days have been sooooo nice weather wise.

Cool in the morning.

Sunny and warm in the afternoon.

AHHHH!

Fall has arrived (we hoped).

But Mother Nature is fickle and likes to keep us guessing.

Back to hot and humid this weekend (BOO HOO).

At least it was nice while it lasted!

Boob Tube

2011-09-07T09:34:00.000-07:00

Whit watching one of his "shows"

Whit LOVES his "shows"! His favorite spot to watch tv is on the screened in porch- even if it 100 degrees outside. Some of his favorite shows are "Dora the Explorer", "Go, Diego, Go"& "Peppa Pig".

Like most moms I don't want him to sit in front of the tv all day long but it does entertain him long enough for me to do a few chores and get a shower. Today we were outside and we saw a Green Tree Frog that hopped into our bushes.

Whit said:

"Now we can't see him because he is camouflaged"

I said:

"That's right?! Where did you learn that?"

Whit responded:

"From Diego".

See, so I guess tv isn't all bad. Plus, he could count from 1-10 in Spanish before he could count from

1-10 in English thanks to Dora!

Spa Party

2011-09-06T11:15:00.000-07:00

Reese and her BFF Anna making kool-aid lip gloss

chocolate facials- WHAT A MESS!!!

Brett rejuvenating his eyes

Reese had a sleep-over "Spa Party" for her birthday.

They made lip gloss, did chocolate facials (never again!), did nails, played games, ate lots of junk and watched a movie to end the evening- or should I say early morning. We are still trying to recover from the lack of-sleep-over! Hopefully everyone had fun- enough fun to last at least another year!

11 is Heaven!!!

2011-09-03T18:42:00.000-07:00

Another Birthday to celebrate!

Today Reese is 11!

WOW!

Born on LABOR DAY weekend 11 whole years ago.

She was in a hurry to get here- 45 minutes of labor with no epidural (not good for me).

Fast and Furious with lots of pain but she turned out to be the sweetest baby.

She still can cause me lots of pain- especially when she fights with her sister (we all know which one!) but for the most part she is still sweet!

I hope you have a super duper 11th birthday and a stupendous 11th year!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROSS!

Naughty-ker

2011-09-02T03:34:00.000-07:00

(this photo says it all)

I was calling Whitaker the other day and he refused to respond. After several attempts I asked him why he wasn't answering me.

He said:

"My name is not Whitaker"

I said:

"Well, what is your name?"

He said:

"My name is NAUGHTY-KER"

How fitting!

Another One Bites the Dust

2011-09-01T04:02:00.000-07:00

Yes, another MONTH has come and gone. As I flipped the family calendar it was an

"Out with the old, In with the new" kind-of feeling.

SEPTEMBER!

FALL!

FOOTBALL!

COOLER TEMPERATURES!

I was SOOOOOO excited!

Until I looked at SEPTEMBER.

I thought I was going to PUKE!

Here is why:

My calendar is already FULL and it is only September 1st!

It is so full I needed to add that little secondary calendar for stuff that wouldn't fit on the main calendar!

And while all this is going on at home I am anxiously awaiting a phone call from Kalyn telling me it is "GO TIME" for baby. At which point I will throw my calendar out the window and drive like a madwomen to get to NC to witness the birth of one very special little boy!

I am soooooo excited.

He is due on the 13th and for the past few days every time the phone rings I run to see if the number on caller id is Kalyn. No call yet but it is only a matter of days now. YIPPEE! A new baby to cuddle and love without having to go through labor myself!

Wish me luck in surviving September!

Lucky 13!!!

2011-08-30T07:03:00.000-07:00

It happened.

Without my permission.

She did it.

She turned into a

TEENAGER!!!

Why do they do that?

Where is that curly-haired pixie with the sleeping beauty gown on?

Where are the days of baby dolls and dress-up,

play dates and trips to the McDonald's maze?

They have been replaced with school, soccer, drama and friends.

Both are good but different.

Both are a chapter in the Book of Life.

No one wants to re-read the same chapter over and over so the pages in the book have to be turned.

As much as we may fight it as a parent we have to let them grow up.

It is hard to except that they don't need or often times want us as much as they used to.

It is hard to except that they are not as "cute" as they once were especially when they talk back, have attitudes and generally think you were put on earth to make their lives miserable.

Gone are the days when you could bribe them to "behave" with a pack of Skittles.

Life is definitely more complicated but the rewards are exponential as you witness your child becoming a productive and worthy member of society.

I know that Carson is destined for great things. I do miss her cute 2 year old self but I truly enjoy her as a smart, sweet, loving, capable 13 year old. I know it won't be all "peaches and cream" for this next chapter in her life but I am looking forward to watching and hopefully participating (if she'll tolerate it) in her growth as a person.

I love you so much and I am so proud of the person you are today.

Happy 13th Birthday, Snookie!

(not the one from "Jersey Shore"- a nickname Kevin gave her when she was little)

Out of the Mouths of Babes?

2011-08-29T07:22:00.000-07:00

Kids say funny things!

While eating dinner one night Brett chimed in:

"Mom, you know what you have to try? Tilapia! It is delicious."

Really? Tilapia? How many 6 year olds know what Tilapia is let alone think it is delicious?

This weekend Griffin was giving Brett a hard time about something and Brett starting crying.

We told him to ignore Griffin and to not be so sensitive. Brett stated:

"I can't help it because Griffin keeps ANTAGONIZING me!"

He didn't say bugging, bothering or even annoying he said ANTAGONIZING!

I think he is ready for the SAT!

No Can Do, Mom!

2011-08-26T11:03:00.000-07:00

This is the pin to hold up our porch umbrella but Whit thinks it is his "Captain Hook" hook- ARRGH!

(photos by Carson)

Whit definitely has a mind of his own. I often ask him to do little tasks like:

Whit, can you pick up your shoes?

Whit can you get in your seat?

Whit can you come here so I can brush your teeth?

Whit can you come here so I can help you get your pants back on?

Whit can you open the door for me?

Whit can you come get in the tub?

(You get the idea)

Well, lately he has decided to answer with the following statement:

No Can Do, Mom!

I just LOVE a sassy 3 year old!

Back to Home?

2011-08-21T14:50:00.000-07:00

These 2 are not officially among the back to school crowd but I couldn't leave them out. If they are willing I am able to take a picture or two. You know what they say-

"Strike while the irons hot"

so if they are going to cooperate I am going to shoot away because you never know when the mood will strike again for them!

Back to School continued.....

2011-08-21T05:43:00.000-07:00

Here are Carson's Back to School photos. She started 8th grade- her LAST year of middle school- AAAHHH!

In a couple of weeks she will enter a new chapter in her life-

TEENAGER!!!

How did that happen?

In my mind I still see her prancing around in her Sleeping Beauty gown carrying her blue blanket and playing with all of her "Polly Pockets"!

Then, I look at her in this pictures and see that she is now a beautiful, young lady! Sometimes a little dramatic but mostly sweet, kind, smart, helpful and very talented.

I know that she is going to have a GREAT year!

Smart A@% Teenager!

2011-08-19T11:29:00.000-07:00

So happy to be in 11th grade!

This may be the only book Griffin opens all year!

To COOL for school!

Griffin decided to make a mockery of my back-to-school photos but at least he did participate!

It is very hard to get a 16 year old boy to agree to get their photo taken so I guess I should be thankful that I got a few shoots even if my subject was trying to be funny (nice way of describing it).

He is also very proud of his facial hair. We keep trying to convince him that he looks better clean shaven but you know what they say- "Pick Your Battles" and facial hair isn't really worth a big fight to me. I can't believe he is old enough to even have a beard! Plus, he keeps talking about next year and going off to college after that and I tell you I just don't want to hear it or think about it so I am going to pretend that it isn't going to happen- Sounds good. I'll live in denial for now.

Apple(s) of My Eye

2011-08-19T11:08:00.000-07:00

I decided to do a little back-to-school photo shoot with the school-aged kids. Needless to say some were more interested than others but they all cooperated long enough for me to get some pics. Here are the elementary school kids. Hadley is starting 4th grade and Brett is starting 1st. He is very worried that his afternoons will be consumed with "SO MUCH HOMEWORK" that he won't have time for his sports- we have tried to explain that 1st graders aren't usually bogged down with work but he doesn't believe us! Hadley isn't worried at all- not a surprise. She is just happy to be going back to her friends. Thankfully one of her very good friends is in her class so that should make for a good year.

Middle-Schooler

2011-08-19T10:14:00.000-07:00

My favorite- I caught her as she was about to drop all of those HEAVY books!

Reese is off to the Middle land. The land of in-betweens. Not quite a kid but not yet a teen- those glorious TWEEN years. She was a little worried the night before about finding her way through the middle school halls but she got over it and had a GREAT first day. She was actually excited about it!

The BEST part-

LOCKERS!!!

Back To Reality

2011-08-18T06:07:00.000-07:00

"Twas the night before school

and all through the land

the kids were all crying

because school was at hand

No more fun in the sun

no more sleeping in late

It's back to the books

because the teachers won't wait

So they packed up their bags

and put them by the door

wondering what the new

year had in store

Lots to be learned

like how to read, write and add

Many new things and experiences

to be had

So, summer is over again,

it is true

put on a smile and try not

to be so blue

For there are only 180 days

of work to do

Until summer returns

and the fun is renewed

Have A Great School Year!!!!

Reese- 6th grade

Brett- 1st grade

Hadley- 4th grade

Carson- 8th grade

Griffin- 11th grade

Next Top Model?

2011-08-16T04:54:00.000-07:00

I found these pics on my camera of Hadley. She and a friend decided to put on some make-up and have a little modeling session. The make-up was a little "Lady Gaga-ish" but hey it has worked for her! Unfortunately, I think Hadley is going to be a little to short for the modeling world.

And So It Begins.....

2011-08-15T17:06:00.000-07:00

A return to our "normal".

Meaning:

We will all be traveling in opposite directions at the speed of light trying to get to all of our activities.

School is still 2 days away but soccer is in full swing.

All 3 girls headed off to practice tonight.

The first of many nights over the next few months where my

family will be spread all over the greater Columbia Metro region.

I am going to take a deep breath because I don't think I will be coming up for air until Thanksgiving!