All About Gracie

The Last Day Of "Two"

2012-02-08T20:53:00.008-05:00

I had this great idea to record the last day of your second year, thinking how special it would be to write a day in your life down to remember. And, then we got to around lunch time and I wondered if I would look back and "smile" 20 years from now....here's hoping!!

You woke up too early, but then again, it seems it happens that way every morning. I hear you little footsteps start in your room and I sigh at the thought of another exhausting day...and then I see your little head peek above my side of the bed and your cheery eyes melt my heart instantly, and I can't wait to hold my arms out to pick you up and slide you in to bed with me. These are my favorite moments of the day...just you and me cuddling in the bed, remembering for a few moments how small you are and how snuggly and loveable you can be when you want to. And, I suck in the smell of your small head as I kiss you...and the moment is over...and you are ready to start your 100 yard dash of a day.

Once you have gotten your sippy cup of milk and your breakfast bar, that which you demand every morning for the last year and a half, you are ready for Mickey. Just a week ago you would repeat "Maisy! Maisy! Maisy!" over and over again until I bleary-eyed got the DVR on just the right place. How your tastes have changed in just a week, and in a few short months. Months ago you watched Sprout from morning until night, then you obsessed over Maisy, and this week when you wielded control over the remote you found Mickey, and fell in to a new love.

You get the stool from my closet and climb into bed with me and watch your new (second) favorite show until Little Einsteins comes on and you can jump for joy. You make the loudest noise as you drink your milk, being sure to replace the bink when you need a break from the chugging.

You can't sit still and you are all over the place, but eyes glued to the TV at all times.

By mid morning I have filled your cup 3-4 times and you have snacked on crackers--the only food you will eat...practically. And, so, you have also gone to potty 3-4 times before our day has barely started.

It is story time day at the library, and I want to go. You don't. You fuss and cry while I put on your sock and shoes and your jacket. You fuss as we walk out the door in the rain to the car. You cry in the car as I buckle you and pull out of the driveway.

You finally give up about half way there.

We are early to story time so you run off to play with the toys. You are visibly mad when I tell you it is time for the story, and you put your head down and cut your eyes at me as you slowly limp to the kids room.

You sit on the rug with me until Ms, Carolyn announces time for "Exercises." Despite the fact that we always do this, you bury your head deep and hard in to my chest and moan like you are on fire.

Songs are next, and you get mad at mommy for daring to sing and do the motions to Itsy Bitsy Spider, so you throw yourself and then your milk. My angry mommy look gets you to sit still, but you are still unhappy until she begins "The Wheels On The Bus," then you become the most active participant.

That song is over and so is your participation. But, you sit still and listen to the other songs and eventually the stories.

Craft time. You always look forward to craft time. But today, you are mad. You are mad at the world and for your lack of control in it. So, you stand in the middle of the room like a statue, refusing to budge as the rest of the kids find a chair and I walk over to a good place for you.

Now, you won't come to me, and when I raise my voice you walk slowly over, head down, mad eyes glaring. You won't do the craft, and you make sure I know it by howling when I get the materials ready.

You win. We leave, me embarrassed, and you looking like you might have realized making mommy upset enough to leave wasn't what you thought you wanted.

Today is also half-off thrift store day, and I have decided you aren't going to take that from me. So, I take you in and you are like a different child. Helpful. Obedient. Good. Maybe you think you will get something? Mommy gets a rare abundance of good deals today, and just as we are about to leave we check the book section. There is a Thomas book--yea. There is a Clifford book--yeah. Wait, is that? "Thomas look that I found!" "Maisy!!!!!!!!" You are so thrilled to see your friend (who is VERY hard to find) that you take the book and sit on the floor and carefully turn the pages talking to each of the characters inside.

Just like you do so many times a day when I am sure I can't take anymore---you make me smile. Not just a little grin, but a deep-down warm smile that makes me glad once again to be a mommy...to be your mommy.

We check out and you demand fries from the Hardee's next door. We spent $13 at the thrift store, and daddy is already going to be unhappy with me--we aren't getting fries--and we don't need them.

I promise you chips with your sandwich. You are okay with that deal until we turn into our neighborhood and you realize there is no drive thru in your future.

You fuss again.

I fix your sandwich and chips and your 20th drink of the day while you settle into Cailliou. I briefly think about how much TV you watch and I wipe the concern away thankful for a few moments of peace. Especially since I know you don't sit still long before you are off to do/tear up/destroy/sneak/place somewhere else.

Lunch is over and you actually ate. This is a rare feat and I am feeling good about myself once again. But it is a fleeting thought since I know I have to battle you for a nap.

Once you are physically upstairs and in a diaper, you are cool with the "nap" idea. I figure it is because you know you aren't actually going to sleep. And you won't. But, I tuck you in and read you a story anyway...and kiss you on the head.

You don't take a nap, and the ridiculously long hair you have is driving me crazy. I want you to look decent for birthday pictures--the few I am sure I will manage to get tomorrow. So, I decide to take you and Gracie to the over-priced hair place and try again. Yep, again, we had to leave Monday when I tried because you threw a fit. Well, actually, because I couldn't physically restrain you enough to get you in the chair. I often forget how strong you are. And, I did again today.

I was sure after the "chat" we had this week and the stern warning you were given before we went in that you couldn't possibly behave as badly. I was wrong, I often am. You threw a massive fit and I couldn't get you in the chair. I was sure we would have to do the walk of shame again, but I just couldn't. I was too mad, too determined...so stubborn. The lady suggests we let you sit in the big chair, and I take the opportunity to hold you--very tightly--as she snips your hair from my arms. I am covered, you are covered in blond hair becuase you smack away the cape she tries to put on you.

My muscles are aching from holding you so tightly, but after a while your resolve seems to waver as she snips more and more hair from your head. I rub your back as your screams turn to whimpers. I try to soothe you, knowing that underneath the stubbornness, you are simply scared and anxious about a stranger wielding scissors. I think you might even know that under my frustration is a more primal devotion to you and my pain at watching you uncomfortable and scared. No mommy can ever sit by and ignore her crying child, or her hurt child, or her torn child. Knowing that we are doing what it is best for you is little consolation to watching your tears stream down your face.

The lady finishes up and attempts to make it the best we she can. I am happy that it is done at all...and that it is over. I am covered in snot and hair and your arms are draped tightly around my neck, and today's trauma is nearly over.

Mommy tips the lady--a lot. We walk back to the car in the rain with yours arms still clutching my neck. You are softly sobbing and my frustration and anger have fallen into acceptance and relief that we are through.

I buckle you in covered in hair and snot and clutching the lollipop she bribed you with.

I have a headache now. We drive mostly silently back home.

You need a bath, I need a shower, but it is almost 5 and I have to cook some dinner.

I leave you and your sister to your devices while I figure out what to fix. the two of you fight and yell and bicker the entire time. You beg for snacks and sneak a bag of chips. Gracie tattles on you for everything.

My headache is worse.

Daddy is home and dinner is on the table. You won't eat anything but the rice. You go off to play nosily making sure we notice you won the dinner fight for the umpteenth time in a row. I try and get a few bites of my dinner in between your returns to my place at the table wanting my attention.

You need a bath and run happily up the stairs at the mere mention of one. You find your cups and toys and wait impatiently for me at the side of the tub. You are happy and smiling and playful. Yet another moment in the day when you find away to erase the tension and frustration with a mere boyish grin.

We play and laugh and giggle as we get you "all clean." The laughs stop short when it is time for hair and the shouts and panic resume.

Daddy gives me a break and diapers you and dresses you for bed. I pour your milk and stagger back up the stairs unsure of how I made it through the day.

I find you happy and with sleepy smiles on your face. You are weary and ready...even eager...for bed.

We brush your teeth and I tuck you in and read your favorite story of the week. I check to be sure Chewey is there, milk is there, blankie and binki too. You settle down and playfully move your face so I can't give you a kiss. You know I won't leave without one, and you wouldn't let me not kiss you goodnight.

I look at you snug and warm and cozy giving me your best "I love you" grin and it all melts. I find once again my heart wrapped around your chubby little finger. I close the door and try not to tear up at the thought of tomorrow being your third birthday.

Where has the time gone? Did I make the most of it? Did I hold on to enough of the good?

I decide to let those questions go, for I am far too exhausted to think tonight. But I go to bed loving you and I will wake in the morning loving you as well. And, we will make it through another day of you and I....and 5...10...15...20... years from now I will swear on how much I miss it.

Home Depot--February

2012-02-04T20:47:00.000-05:00

Gracie made the cutest little keepsake box today at the Home Depot workshop! Very girly, and very practical. If you haven't taken your children to one of these--you must!

And yes, I said Gracie--Thomas doesn't do anything Thomas doesn't want to do...and wear and orange apron and follow directions are two of them!

More A's

2012-02-02T20:42:00.000-05:00

Mommy's little scholar did it again! We are so proud that our Gracie brought home her second report card (ever) with another round of straight A's!

Way to go Gracie! Keep up your hard work!

Happy Groundhogs Day

2012-02-02T20:34:00.002-05:00

I had been waiting for Gracie to come home from school to do this idea I had. It has been very warm and wonderful this "winter" and today was no exception, so why not make our own shadows?

Thomas and I also did a few crafts and activities today, and the kids got groundhog milkshakes for snack.

Happy Birthday Daddy

2012-01-31T20:31:00.003-05:00

Daddy got a good evening of birthday celebration tonight..and we took him to dinner last night. He says he had a pretty good birthday (after a bad day of work anyway!). So, thank you to all of you who wished him well and sent cards and gifts.

Mommy made him an Angry birds cake, and I think it was as big of a hit with the kids as it was with him.

Oh, and he got one of those fancy-shmancy coffee machines for his birthday (well, he got it early because he couldn't wait ;) and a coffee carousel holder to go along with it. Gracie made him a special mug, and Thomas gave him a box of coffee.

Happy Chinese New Year

2012-01-23T22:08:00.000-05:00

Second Grade Chinese New Year

2012-01-23T18:50:00.004-05:00

Thomas and I got a chance to watch the festivities at Gracie's school today as they celebrated the Chinese New Year.

2012 is the year of the dragon, and Gracie and her class were apart of the 2nd grade parade of dragons (too cute!!!) and Thomas and I watched and cheered them on.

They went all around the school, but we were happy to wait inside after we saw a few earlier sections of it (it was cold!!), and I grabbed the below video.

After the parade (and a class picture!!) the kids got to taste Chinese food. That was so neat to watch. A few of them were trying food for the first time, and one child had never had Chinese food at all. But, more than half not only had eaten it--they loved it! Usually we have tons of leftovers after a class party, but these kids nearly licked the pans clean!

The second grade classes collected money ($2 per child) and ordered from Peking, a local place. They were extra great and sent the kids each chop sticks, a fortune cookie, and a paper place mat. The classes all got the same things, and the kids had the choice to sample all or none of beef & broccoli, sweet & sour chicken, lo mien noodles, and of course rice.

And, yes, Thomas got in on the food as well as the parade. He didn't attempt the chopsticks, and he found the plastic fork to sharp, so he slurped.

Gracie was ready for the day, since we planned her outfit on Friday when she told me about it. Uncle Brian brought back Mariah (his daughter) several kimonos from Japan during his tour there while in the Marines. She passed them on to Gracie since she has long out grown them.

Gracie looked very festive today, and we even did her hair in a bun with colorful ribbons and sticks!

(Yes, I know that is Japan not China, but they are studying Asia as a unit, so I decided it worked ;)

Potty Rock Star!

2012-01-22T20:06:00.003-05:00

We all got over the stomach bug/flu (just) in time to celebrate Thomas' potty success tonight.

When searching the net for ideas on my party, I came across the line "potty like a rock star." loved it! Had to do it!

So, I made a rock and roll themed potty celebration party.

I even put mousse in his hair and gave him a rock star do. (No, he didn't like it and fussed and smashed his hair down. I fluffed it back up though)

Not that it lasted, since he freaked when I pulled the camera out a few moments after he eagerly climbed into his seat.

So, a rock star tantrum later, we returned to the table and tried again. Once he learned there were presents involved--he was good to go.

He loved opening his packages of undies from Grandma and Grandpa and Mamaw and Papaw. He wasn't as impressed with mommy's undies cake--but that's okay--I like it. And, Aunt Sharon sent him some funds to pick out some more big boy undies, so he is set for a while.

The "party" was pretty simple, but very cute and he had a good time. I made him a certificate and he happily ate his cupcake.

A special thanks to Mamaw and Papaw for foreseeing the green-eyed monster and sending it something to open too. While that tamed the "beast," she was sure she didn't get as many undies as she did. I told her (again and again) that she had a party just like this one and people even came over to celebrate with her and people mailed undies for her too. I went back and showed her the pictures too.

Many thanks to all of you who congratulated our big boy on his big success.

I think you can see the pictures from this link...try it...

PS: I apparently didn't blog about Gracie's potty party (I was (am) a little uptight, anyway, I added those pictures to the above link so you can see them both :)

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

2012-01-18T19:28:00.003-05:00

Apparently she has it at school.

Well, she has it here too, most of the time.

Gracie was honored today for being one of the most respectful second graders in her school at the awards assembly.

You may remember last year she won the award for citizenship.

Thankfully her teacher emailed me this weekend and told me about it, otherwise we would have only gotten 8 hours notice! And, we all know that isn't enough time for me to make her a special dress!

Yeah, I made her a special dress to wear--and she loved it.

We are always proud of our Gracie, but it is days like to day that we are extra proud.

Congratulations Gracie!

(want to see her get her award? I knew you would ;)

Cookie Temption

2012-01-15T19:14:00.003-05:00

This morning in church Thomas and I listened to Pastor Jay as he talked about temptation...on a child's level. He ate a freshly baked cookie in front of them and ohhed and ahhed over it. I think they got the message, but weren't prepared for the challenge.

He handed each child a baggie with 2 cookies in it and told them not to eat it until after lunch.

The adults in the congregation giggled and the associate pastor mockingly gave out the Pastor's email address for those parents who wanted to "complain."

This was a struggle for Thomas since he being of only 2 years had no real ability to wait until after anything--he had cookies in his hand and he wanted to eat them now!

Thankfully I had a small supply of Smarties in his church bag and we were able to curb the thought of them.

As for keeping his promise, he did. Not only did he wait until *after* dinner, but he shared the second cookie with Gracie (his idea, not mine!).

I decided that we would respond to the Pastor's idea to email him and tell him how the children did. I included the above picture collage. Here was his response:

Thomas,

I'm so proud of you and I know God is smiling too.

Pastor Jay

Daddy Takes The Kids To Work

2012-01-14T19:21:00.004-05:00

As you may know the General Assembly here in VA is in session and daddy is working longer hours, suffers from more heart-burn and dresses up even nicer.

Daddy turned on the Governor's address this week to watch it himself and to share it with Gracie. Gracie seemed to spark interest what was going on, so he decided he would take her to the capital building this weekend.

It was cold, but sunny, and the kids were reasonably well behaved for the tour.

Daddy couldn't get us inside the actual gallery rooms to see where "it" all happens--but we saw everything else, even where the elected officials of centuries ago sat to make our laws.

Gracie was very impressed.

Thomas just wanted to push the elevator buttons. :)

Daddy was very proud to show his family where he works and what he does.

Mommy was left carrying everything we brought on the trip, and took pictures, and was smiling as her husband beamed. Also, she was on "Thomas Duty" and that was a very large job.

Teachers Here Do It Too

2012-01-08T20:04:00.000-05:00

Apparently Candice isn't the only one who tells her kids to wear their pajamas backwards and sleep with a spoon under their pillow, becuase tonight I found Gracie dressed like this, and she went and found a spoon to sleep with.

I thought Candice would get a kick out of it.

Apparently this makes it snow.

Sorry teachers, didn't work for Hanover County.

Sunday's Devilish Child

2012-01-08T20:01:00.001-05:00

The older lady sitting in the pew behind Thomas and I this morning, took my hand as we were leaving services this morning and told me...

"have a blessed week. I will be praying you have the energy to make it though."

She gets it, she really does! And she only witnessed ONE HOUR worth of him!

Working Hard On The Potty

2012-01-06T14:23:00.003-05:00

**note: trying to go back and post date and add entries is overwhelming and completely drains my excitement for blogging, so I am just going to start today--you really didn't miss much :) ***

Thomas is doing so wonderfully (now!) at potty training. In fact we have been out of the house 3 times this week without diapers!

I read somewhere that using disposable pants for training actually prolongs the process. Maybe that is why Gracie was 3 and a half before she would use the potty! So, I took the advice to heart and while the article suggested you could potty train a child in one week, I would say we are well on our way to a potty party at the completion of week 2!

Now, had we been extra consistent, and he had been less onry, we could have done it. But the fact that he will be potty trained before his 3rd birthday is a HUGE success for me--so I am not going to beat myself up over the data.

I snapped this picture (with my new phone--sticker for me for figuring that contraption out!) and it will likely embarrass him to no end when he is in high school--but it was rather fitting don't you think? He was "fixing" things in the bathroom with his drill. He is a toddler of many talents (aim not being one of them!).

I do plan to have a potty party for him when he no longer has accidents (which is right now, but I want to give him more time to iron the kinks out and go out of the house a little more). So many of you participated when I gave Gracie one, so if you would like to send a homemade card or you can find them at Hallmark, and/or send him a potty book or undies I think it would make him feel super special. Now, if we plan a visit to Strasburg or Lynchburg this month we will do it there so he has more people to be excited for him and I will take anything sent in the mail with me. (No mom, I have not even planned a trip, I was just thinking out loud)

Christmas Catch-Up

2011-12-28T22:27:00.001-05:00

I know, I know...I am so behind! And there was/is so much to share.

I have most of it blogged now...I am just trying to find the mall picture of Santa to complete everything I believe you missed.

So, scroll down and enjoy!

Gum Drop The Elf Photo Album

2011-12-26T20:53:00.001-05:00

So, Gracie did very well blogging about her adventures with Gum Drop and where and how she found him each morning, but then we all got busy with the holidays and poor Gum Drop's adventure's ceased...on blogger anyway! He had many more adventures before he left with Santa Christmas Eve.

Curious?

Here are the days we got to share with Gum Drop.

Don't worry, he will be back again next year!

2011 Shipley Family Christmas Awards

2011-12-25T21:30:00.000-05:00

Earliest to Rise: Thomas, although not as early as I was expecting...at 7 am something

Fastest Gift Opener: Gracie, hands down the winner in *maybe* 6 minutes to get through EVERYTHING under the tree!

Lamest Gift: Mommy has to take that prize. Thomas was visibly UN-impressed with the Clifford sleeping bag I got him. Hello, they don't have to all be toys, and *we* like practical!

Most Difficult Packaging: Santa for the Rapunzel hair braider for Gracie

Green Eyed Monster Award: surprisingly Thomas. Although, a big award to Gracie for sharing her toys (and by "sharing" I mean not screaming her head off when he touched something of hers)

Biggest "Hit" Gift(s): Santa with the ice cream play dough sets. Each child got a set of different ice cream parts/makers and played for over an HOUR *TOGETHER!!!**

Favorite Toy: Thomas: Fire Truck floor (very large) puzzle. Gracie: Sqinkie mall/amusement park (thank you Mamaw & Papaw)

Most Played with Toy: Gracie: Barbie Pet Vet dog. Thomas: Cars Race Car Track

Loudest Scream: Gracie when she got to the tree and saw the Hello Kitty Sewing Machine

Cutest Moment: Thomas finding Hot Wheels hanging on the tree a few at a time at random moments through out the morning (Santa hung Hot Wheels packages all over the tree like ornaments--isn't he cleaver?!!) "Car!! Ano-der one!!!"

Most Grinch Like: sorry honey, but you used at least 2 lines from the movie ;)

Broken Toy Award: Gracie's nutcracker (we can fix it) she blames Thomas, he looks innocent. Thankfully, the only toy requiring surgery.

Most Annoying Toy: Santa! Zhu Zhu pets for Gracie. Lord have mercy!!! I should be thankful he waited this long to give them to her. NO ONE ELSE BUY HER ANY--THEY ARE OBNOXIOUS AND MAY POSSIBLY GET "LOST" AS THEY ARE RODENTS, AND NO ONE SHOULD WILLINGLY KEEP RODENTS!

Mommy "Wow" Moments On Gifts (For the Kids): Thomas: Melissa & Doug puzzle set (which he LOVED) from Aunt Ruth & Uncle George. Gracie: Embroidered lunch box from Aunt Sharon (thank you!)

Noisiest Gift-Giver: Mamaw & Papaw...not one, but two of the loudest toys in the house today..of course as you know, the louder they are the more they love the gift ;) Thomas: race track with shakable cars, Gracie: Squinkie Ferris wheel.

Biggest Smile: Thomas as he climbed in the inflatable car ball pit from Candice & Elliott (that I blew up myself--*without* a pump! Whew!)

Most sugar consumption: this might be a toss up..Thomas started by finishing the crumbs Santa left behind on the plate, ate at least 2 pieces of candy after he snuck another one when we told him "only one." Gracie had her once piece of candy, but *had* to have another when Thomas pilfered his second one...ate *7* blueberry muffins while I wasn't looking...and asked CONSTANTLY for other deserts and/or sugary substances the rest of the day! (Neither child got any more!)

Longest In PJ's: well, I am still in mine, and Gracie went to bed in hers. Thomas changed a few times...but that's becuase he can't hold his "liquids" and he likes to take his clothes off ;)

Most Spoiled Children on Christmas Day: mine!

Gracie's First Communion

2011-12-24T22:12:00.001-05:00

It wasn't planned. In fact, Gracie has always been so shy when it came to even thinking about going to the front of the church and taking communion with daddy and I.

Garren would always encourage her, and he knew how I felt about it. I didn't believe a child should do something that important until they completely understood. I didn't tell her not to, but I always reminded him not to push her too hard because she is so very timid.

When I was growing up you didn't take communion until you finished confirmation class. I want to say we were in 4th or 5th grade.

I don't think many churches do that anymore, and our Gracie knows what communion is. But, I have to say after the shock wore off when Garren mouthed to me "Gracie is going to go up with us..." the tears were hard to hold back.

I was so proud, and awed, and so many other things.

In all my emotion, I knew that I had to capture this moment. I pulled the camera out of the diaper bag, and turned it to video. I knew I would have a better chance than with a picture, and I didn't want to bother others with the flash.

The lady giving Gracie communion is her Sunday School teacher--and maybe that is what made her feel so comfortable. She is clearly a loving woman. She spoke tonight and shared the sanctuary with the youth pastor. (There were 5 Christmas Eve services, so they spaced them out so the main pastor didn't have to do them all).

What a special moment for me as a mom. And for her as a child of God.

Christmas Eve 2011

2011-12-24T22:07:00.000-05:00

I didn't get a family photo, I couldn't even get the kids to stand together for a picture either. Well, I tried, and Thomas is the stinker--but you probably already guessed that.

Despite my lack of photos, we did have a nice Christmas Eve.

We went to services at 4pm. That one was specifically for families, and it was packed! Plus, there were so many kids, and they geared it more for the younger crowd. They played a home-made movie about the pieces of the Nativity and all of the bulletins had a coloring page on the front and they gave everyone crayons.

For the adults there was plenty of traditional. We sang the carols and took communion. It really was a good mix.

Speaking of...Gracie took her first communion! (I will blog about that separately!!)

We hope all of you had special evenings with your families this Christmas Eve. This day has always been my favorite of the whole holiday season.

And...we hope you had a yummy meal together--we did--we got Chinese!

Look Who I Got!

2011-12-18T21:38:00.003-05:00

Isn't she precious?

This is Zoe. She is Nina's little sister and my friend Heather's 6 week old daughter. I was thrilled to not only get to see her, but to hold her as well.

Heather and her sisters and brothers (all 5 of them total) came in for Christmas in Lynchburg and we were invited over last night for an open house.

We went, and had a good time, but it was very busy and hard to really chat--so we came back over this morning for a play date! Fun!

Gracie played Barbie with Carrington (Amy's daughter) and Thomas kind of ran around, but he attempted to play cars with Nina and baby Zoe too!

I got a few pictures today, and I was thankful that I caught Heather for a few seconds last night and her husband Fredy snapped a picture of us (well, minus the baby who was being shared :)

Family Christmas

2011-12-17T21:42:00.000-05:00

Shoot! We didn't take a family picture--AGAIN!

Thomas, Gracie and I came to Grandma and Grandpa's for the weekend for our annual Christmas get-together. My parents always claim the weekend before Christmas so that we can spend the actual 25th with our immediate families.

Brian and Dawn came in as well and brought 4 of their 7.

The kids were beyond spoiled and all of them had a great time playing together and doing projects and such.

We don't get to see Brian and his kids often, but they always seem to pick right back up where they left off. It is really neat to see them all together--even though they are very, very loud! ;) Although, they wouldn't have been so loud if Uncle Brian hadn't given Thomas his first Monster Truck! Thanks a million dear brother!

How Thomas Spent MOST Of His Time At Grandma & Grandpa's

2011-12-16T21:56:00.000-05:00

Yep...that's a TALL cup.

Yep...that's a straw inside.

Yep...that's MOUNTAIN DEW!!!

Yep...his Grandpa fixed that cup, and the half a dozen or more after it!

Winter Party At School

2011-12-16T18:59:00.000-05:00

Mommy got to plan, execute, and volunteer for today's second grade party. Can you tell I am proud? I was even named: Room Mom (the things that thrill me at age 30 something!).

And even though I sent out the invites and coordinating the food and snacks and came in an set up...I still had to make Gracie a special dress for the ococcasion.

It wasn't until THIS morning I decided I *had* to make Thomas a matching outfit too.

Yeah, I am a little nutty.

Gracie had a great time and way too much sugar with her friends today. I was seriously feeling ill watching these kids shove so much down their little gullets! Ick! And Gracie had to ride in the car for 2.5 hours after!

In addition to the treats, the kids also made an edible Christmas tree--so extra fun and extra sugar.

As for baby brother--whew! He was all over the place and had his hands in everything! I have to keep a constant eye on him, but it is so much harder when he is vying for the attention and unwatched plates of 17 other kids! He was a usual handful, but enjoyed being with his sister and all of those girls who couldn't get enough of him.

Gum Drop The Elf: Day 14

2011-12-15T18:46:00.003-05:00

by: Gracie

Did you know that elf,s could go on dates with Barbies in a car?Well if you dident know they do!Today Gum Drop with Barbie.p.s. isent romatec?Well today,s addventer.

Gum Drop The Elf: Day 13

2011-12-14T18:06:00.002-05:00

by: Gracie
Today Gum Drop hade a iland of his oun.He hade a privet iland just for himself.The sand was a mixter of baby oil and foulower mixd together.He used fishier price and littelest pet shop.Well thats todays addventer.

Gum Drop The Elf: Day 12

2011-12-13T18:05:00.001-05:00

by: Gracie
Gum Drop has some delishes addventers.Today he made a snow angel out of suger.I trid some but mommy dinent like that.Well that,s today,s addventer.

Gum Drop The Elf: Day 11

2011-12-12T15:55:00.003-05:00

By: Gracie

Today Gum Drop a sleep over on my barbie bed and used my kelly clock.I bet he felt relaxt ond cozy.The best part obout it is that he was near the crismas tree and beacase he hung the bell I gave him.Well thats todays adventer.

Gum Drop The Elf: Day 10

2011-12-11T17:03:00.002-05:00

Today has been a very busy and kind of crazy day...so, I am going to post today's Gum Drop picture and maybe Gracie can find time to blog about today's adventure and tomorrow's after school.

Gracie's First 5K

2011-12-11T16:09:00.002-05:00

Our Gracie ran her first ever 5K today! We are so proud of her! (well, we always are, but now we are extra-proud :)

Daddy ran the race with Gracie and they did 8 minutes better than the last time they ran it around the neighborhood.

And, of course they accomplished daddy's 3 goals:

1. Don't die
2. Finish
3. Don't finish last

Gum Drop The Elf: Day 9

2011-12-10T19:56:00.002-05:00

by: Gracie

Today Gum Drop tok a bath in marshmellow,s beacase he has done a lot of things with marshmellows.He has made snowmen with them and roasted them.Today I ate a marshmellow form his bath mommy thot it was grose I did not.Itold her she would fly but she still did not eat one.Well thats today,s addventer.

Gum Drop The Elf: Day 8

2011-12-09T16:13:00.002-05:00

by: Gracie Elfs like music beacase Gum Drop lisend to my ipod .I dont how he did becase it wasent on! I dont even know what song he was.Well thats toodays addventer.

Gum Drop The Elf: Day 7

2011-12-08T15:16:00.002-05:00

by: Gracie.

Today Gum Drop made snow men out of marsh mellwllows.He had a small sharpie in his hand and i,m suprisd becase there were lots of other colers like blue and oringeand also he dident have tooth piks when he yosd them.I think Gum Drop is cute and some times he,s funny but he allways has good addventes.Well thats today,s addventer and check out the other Gum Drop addventers.

Gum Drop The Elf: Day 6

2011-12-07T15:31:00.002-05:00

by: Gracie

Toaday I found Gum Drop in a ball pit.I bet he felt like he was in a spa of balls.All of the balls were colers of the rainbow.They were all store bot.Well thats,s todays addventer.

Gum Drop The Elf: Day 5

2011-12-06T16:20:00.002-05:00

by: Gracie

Did you know that elf,s know how to plat music if you dident they do.The smornig he playd my ucalaly.I was not ewar that elf,s new how to play music.Well thats todays addventer.

Gum Drop The Elf: Day 4

2011-12-05T19:40:00.002-05:00

by: Gracie

Aparentle elf,s love fish becase awr,s does.Gum Drop fishd gold fish out of a fishing pond made out of paper.It was on the kichen tabel.Today I askt mommy how Gum Drop eat,s she say,s he eat,s with santa and come,s bak to have a snak here.That,s today,s adventur.

An Honest Chat

2011-12-04T21:51:00.000-05:00

...about books.

I have noticed lately that Gracie doesn't want to read. In fact she makes a huge deal out of her 10 minute required reading for homework (she makes a HUGE deal out of everything these days...but that is a rant for later), and when I suggest she go read on the weekends--well, you would have thought I told her to paint the house.

So, tonight at dinner, we had a chat.

I asked her why she didn't seem to like reading anymore. I started the discussion by telling her I noticed that she didn't seem to be enjoying school anymore, or reading. I had told her in the past week how grandma used to beg me to go out and play, but my nose was either stuck in a book or I was playing in my own world by myself in my room.

I want her to have a love for reading--and it was there! It was! I don't know where it went...but I won't let her walk away. Not completely anyway. If I push her it will only make her drag her feet more.

So, after our discussion I came away with these facts:

1. she is lazy. Not an epiphany here--I have noticed this for months now and it is driving me insane!!

2. She isn't interested in the books she has.

Okay, I can deal with the second one.

So, we went to her room and started sorting the books. This gave me a chance to see what she was interested in, and it gave her a chance to see what she had.

I have collected so many books for her--so many, she couldn't remember what she had. So, by weeding out the "boring" ones, we had a better (and less full) shelf to choose from.

I doubt that my battle with reading is over, but I hope this helps her some. And, since I plan to encourage her to read even when she doesn't have to, I now know what to buy to pique her interest.

What does she like?

*Barbie
*Princess
*Rainbow Magic Fairies
*Magic Tree House

...really, were you surprised?

She tells me she is over Junie B. (becuase she is in 2nd grade and Junie is only in first--duh mommy!), she didn't care for Judy Moody or Geronimo Stilton...or frankly any of the books I found interesting. So, basically, I continue to "pay the mouse" as Garren would say. Um, when does the princess thing wear off?!!

Mechanicsville Parade

2011-12-04T21:45:00.000-05:00

It isn't Strasburg...so it isn't the same (not remotely!)...but it is hard to pass up a parade when you have two excitable kids.

So, Thomas (not having a nap since the parade started at 3pm), Gracie and I loaded up the car with blankets and chairs and we headed for her elementary school to find our spots.

Thomas was super excited about the parade, but was not so excited that we were at the end of the route and he had to wait a rather long time for the fun to begin.

Thank goodness, daddy talked me into an IPod thingy. Well, actually, he gave me his old phone (2 phones back I think) and showed me how to use it. Typical mommy, put things on it for the kids. And, it works!!

So, while Thomas passed the time with a great car/truck app I found, Gracie practiced waving at all the people lining up.

It was a nice parade, and MUCH warmer than last year. It was a nightmare with the wind and temperature! Thomas was a bit cranky, but we managed and he loved the marching bands and fire trucks and ambulances.

Gracie, of course, loved the princesses and floats.

It may not be the same (ever!), but we had a fun family time...the same as we would have had anywhere else.

Gum Drop The Elf: Day 3

2011-12-04T17:09:00.002-05:00

by: Gracie

Today I found GumDrop with my barbie sofa my barbie cup and my tea cup fild with pop corn!when I turnd on the the tv I found it was on the crismas chanl .he was listening to crismas songs.well thats toadays addventer.

Home Depot--December

2011-12-03T21:40:00.000-05:00

Well, I completely forgot!

I was so sure I would be able to be super-mom and do everything and then some even with daddy gone for a week--but I just plain ole' forgot. But, Gracie remembered, and we made it to Home Depot to make December's project with 30 minutes to spare.

Gracie was a trooper and got her picture taken with Santa, and then she made her absolutely adorable snowman napkin holder. She finished the project quickly and with great precision and she got stockings with treats for herself and her brother.

What did Thomas do?

What he usually does, supervises while he chows down on the chips and drinks the people give him. We will do his project together sometime this week--when he doesn't have a mouth full of chips.

PS: don't even ask about his reaction to having a picture taken with Santa. Just use your Thomas-imagination!

Gum Drop The Elf: Day 2

2011-12-03T13:21:00.002-05:00

by: Gracie
Have you ever wonderd if a elf new how to roast marshmellow`s?well ares does.today we found Gum drop roasting marshmellows in the loundry room.I coudent find him but mommy did.how weird is that.I cant beilve he was roasting marshmellows.Thats the funnyest thing a elf woud do.Well thats todays addventur.

Gum Drop The Elf: Day 1

2011-12-02T15:26:00.003-05:00

By: Gracie

meet Gum Drop the adoruble elf.Today he was on the top of the sink.Thats were he was anyway.yester day he was bot (bought) .and thats todays advendtur .

Meet "Gum Drop"

2011-12-01T20:30:00.000-05:00

We have our very own elf. He came from Santa's workshop to keep an eye on Gracie and Thomas. As you can imagine Santa is very busy this time of year.

His name is "Gum Drop." Since Gracie is the oldest, she got to name the elf that will visit us each Christmas. (He goes back with Santa on Christmas Eve).

Gum Drop will hang around the house all day, and then at night when the kids are sleeping he will report back to Santa.

We never know where he will land when he gets back from flying, so the kids will have to hunt and find him. But, they can't touch Gum Drop--he may lose his magic.

I thought it might be fun for Gracie to show you where Gum Drop lands each day. So, I am going to have her take a picture when she finds him in the mornings, and then blog about it after homework in the afternoon.

Catch Up

2011-11-29T19:04:00.002-05:00

Okay, so I can't say there hasn't been much to blog about...because there has been tons, so pretty much it is me getting out of the habit of blogging about every adorable, and not so adorable, things my kids do.

And, I miss it--I do.

I am too far behind to try and catch up by creating a blog for everything you have missed so I am going to try and fill you in here, and then add the bigger stuff with entries (I am obsessive about making my dates match the event, so scroll down to see what I have added--but give me a few hours, it takes a while :).

So, Thomas is super duper cute these days. Well, he is always cute--but he is even cuter. He flashes that grin and/or smile and you can't help but melt! He also knows how to use this as a weapon! He gets in trouble and puts his little head down, lip out, and raises his eyes to make sure you are looking!! Wow!

What else?

Gracie brought home her first ever report card, and didn't get an A...she got THREE!! All three of her first ever report card grades were "A's" !!!
Gracie signed up for her first 5K--she will run the Toys For Tots 5K with Daddy December 11th.
Gracie's 2nd Grade play/performance is also coming up in a few weeks at school. She and her classmates are in a musical about bells.
The weather has been amazing the past few weeks--I know that won't last--so, we have been going to the kids' favorite park. We even skipped church Sunday (I know) and we went as a family and spent a warm Sunday morning together playing (I think God would approve).
Oh, and Gracie learned to hula hoop and snap. She has been practicing both for weeks and got them at last--in the same weekend (no, she doesn't do them at the same time :).
We had a nice Thanksgiving--while you people were eating turkey (boring!) we grilled out steaks! I made a costume for Thomas...but he hated it (at least pretend to be surprised by that!).
I volunteered at Gracie's school for her last day before the break--that was fun.
We haven't made Christmas plans, in fact, we are NOT talking about, decorating, or contemplating Christmas until at least the 1st of December. (But, I have some fun ideas for when that day gets here--so hang on--and hopefully I will get back to my much missed blog!)

Happy Thanksgiving From Us

2011-11-24T08:11:00.000-05:00

Second Graders Give Thanks

2011-11-23T20:12:00.001-05:00

I was thankful I got to help out in Gracie's classroom today. And, I was thankful I could leave Thomas at home with Daddy.

Mrs. Hayden had planned on a feast, but when all was said and done the kids had just desert instead.

I came early and set the kids desks with food and drinks and napkins and such. The would have their sugar after lunch time.

I did get to spend some time watching Gracie finish her math/holiday project before lunch time, and I was sure to ohh and ahh over her friends work as well.

Before they were allowed to "chow down," Mrs. Hayden went around the room and had them tell what they were thankful for. I quick pulled out my camera and hit the record button, thankfully it was up and running before she got to Gracie! Want to hear what she was thankful for?

You can all say "awwww" now! :)

Gracie's First Report Card

2011-11-11T20:08:00.000-05:00

Well, I was expecting an "A" today on Gracie's FIRST graded report card. But, I didn't get one...I got THREE. Okay, okay, she got three. But, I am pretty sure I was more excited than she was!

I tried not to go overboard with it--since I don't want her to be a mini-me and obsess over grades like I did. But, I did give her a special treat (a Barbie movie I got from the $5 bin and had been holding on to). We were sure to tell her several times it was for her first A, and she won't get rewarded for grades every time.

We are so proud! Big congratulations to our Gracie!!

11--11-11

2011-11-11T19:24:00.000-05:00

Where were you? Odds aren't you won't remember...and I had an idea.. Why not take a fun picture with the kids, so they can show their children where they were on a once in a life time kind of date?

Letter From Teacher

2011-11-10T20:46:00.001-05:00

This is the letter I got from teacher Gracie today after she had him in her class for the time it took me to prepare dinner.

Ready for a smile and a chuckle? (click to enlarge)

Election Day

2011-11-08T18:38:00.001-05:00

Daddy will be at work all day (and night) for Election Day...so for the first year ever, I took both kids with me alone and voted. (last year mom happened to be visiting and stayed with them)

I dressed them super cute, and we walked right in and voted. Super easy!

Getting our annual Election Day photo was not! But, I got a somewhat decent one to share.

Daddy hopes you voted today!

Cooking With Thomas

2011-11-08T13:37:00.000-05:00

Thomas helped mommy make banana bread from some browning bananas this morning...and he was such a good helper!

He LOVES to cook an stir and mix. I got some great shots, so I had to make a cutesy collage!

Fun Day At The Park

2011-11-07T20:41:00.001-05:00

Thomas didn't take a nap today...so, when Gracie came home and I felt how wonderfully warm it was, I decided to load the kids up and head to our favorite park. Well, it's my favorite. It is shady and there is more for Thomas. Gracie seems to like it well too.

I had lofty plans for great fall photos of my kids, so you can imagine my disappointment when I came home and downloaded blurry pic after blurry pic!

Thankfully I got a few good ones.

The trees and afternoon sunset were just beautiful. I need to read up more on photography so I can better capture these moments. And, I think I need a better camera as well. I have had this one for nearly a year, and that usually about how long one lasts me!

Home Deopt November

2011-11-05T20:48:00.003-05:00

They had a cute set up inside Home Depot this morning when we took the kids. They had a camera and a place to have your child's picture taken to go with their craft.

Guess which "kid" wouldn't have a picture taken? Yep!

Daddy helped Thomas make his craft, and mommy helped Gracie. It was one of the easier projects, and their picture frames came out super cute!

Coincidentally I had gone to Walgreens and gotten several photos done. I couldn't decide between two photos to put in a car frame he has in his room...so I handed him the photos. One was of him in front of a race car the day I took him to the track, the other of him and Grandpa. He went running around the room showing everyone "pa-pa!!" "Ge-cee? Pa-Pa!!" "Ma-Ma? Pa-Pa!!!" "Da-Da? Pa-Pa!!!"

Too cute, huh?

So, the picture of him and Pa-Pa went in his Home Depot frame, the other in his car frame.

Gracie has the picture they took at the store. It is supposed to be a Veteran's Day photo, but we may swap it out when she finds one she likes as much as Thomas likes his.

Soggy Halloween

2011-10-31T20:59:00.001-05:00

If you are looking for lots of Halloween excitement here...prepare to be disappointed...I was :(

Actually, I think I am more disappointed than the kids. Halloween is a fun mommy holiday too you know (at least for those of us with little ones).

Garren didn't want to be as he said on eof "the lame ones out before dark." So, we waited until dark...so did the rain. Wasn't that nice of it?!

Now, we put the costumes on the kids in the rain. We walked around Heather's neighborhood (practically no one had lights on last year so we made plans to go over to her street) in the steady rain. We knocked on doors and said "trick or treat" in the heavier rain. And then came the downpour.

Thomas was having such a good time. He loved saying "trick reat!"

We did 3 houses, and then daddy's exact words to Gracie were "how about I go to Walmart and buy you the biggest bag of candy I can find and we call this a night?"

She was super okay with this arrangement. I was not. Not about the candy, but all that work and excitement to take my kids trick or treating was over in 10 minutes.

It could have been worse. He could have been older and understood more of what Halloween was all about and thrown a tantrum. Or as Heather put it "it could be 3 inches of snow!"

But, I am still a little sad. They were so cute!

Show And Tell

2011-10-31T17:01:00.003-05:00

Mommy wants to show you this candy corn pillow case dress I made for Gracie that she wore for the second time this season.

Thomas wants to show you he didn't pick up the apple beanbags like he was supposed to.

Gracie wants to show you the shoes she and DADDY picked out yesterday.

They are Sketchers. There she has a pair...and I had NO part in it.

Gracie Runs...Again

2011-10-29T18:29:00.004-05:00

MY Gracie was ready to go this morning despite the steady rain and the very cool temperatures outside.

Today was the Mechanicsville Miler at her school, and we couldn't have been more proud as we watched our dedicated Gracie run in the rain and mud! (Now, how to get her that dedicated to the things I WANT her to do?!)

The rain was really causing havoc with the flow of the morning's events, but we managed. Thomas, however, did not. Daddy sat with a very cold baby in the car while Mommy cheered Gracie on (seriously, it was too cold and miserable and he was shivering).

Now, there was a 100 yard dash also to take place and any age could participate, and I talked to Gracie about it and told her she could do what she wanted to, but I was afraid there wouldn't be enough time to get from one event to the other. She agreed, but as we slowly tried to get info and move to where we were supposed to be...we ended up at the dash start line. So, I looked at Gracie and told her she could go for it if she wanted. She did!

So, she ran a 100 yard dash, got her ribbon and marched on to the 1 miler start line!!

They finally arranged the kids grades K-2 and counted down to the start. The other kids went out like a flash and Gracie was far behind for a while--but I knew what she was doing. And, sure enough, after a short way, some of the other kids ran out of steam and started walking. My Gracie kept her pace.

She kept her pace the entire mile and across the finish line 3rd!!!

I cheered her on as she rounded the last corner.

When she came through she high-five'd one of the Principals and told me "I saw Miss. Anderson!"

Apparently Miss. Anderson (her 1st grade teacher) was on the course (where I couldn't see) and she was excited. She told me she high-five'd her. And, then when I saw her I made her take a picture with Gracie.

Gracie got her certificate and I gushed and gushed. She told me she only walked 2 steps to catch her breath, and ran the WHOLE way!!

They gave out medals to the top girl and boy in her run (and the 3-5th graders as well)--she came right behind the top girl. Of course, I happen to think she's our TOP girl!

We are all so proud. And, now she is looking forward to running in the same race she did last year in Richmond!

Gracie's Quote Of The day

2011-10-29T18:13:00.003-05:00

"I wonder how busy it is at the Walmart in Asia?"

What?!!

Manly Duties

2011-10-28T22:50:00.002-05:00

My son takes his role as little man of the house very seriously.

Actually, I don't know how to describe his man-of-the-house attitude.

Today, we were at Costco and he insisted on putting the groceries on the belt. The man working was so impressed and commented on how his son came back in the house after giving up on mowing the lawn. He had apparently made 3 rows and told his dad "it was harder than I thought."

And, I know that all kids like to help--it is the way he helps. He gets this most serious look on his face and commands "I do it, I do it!!!" And, he doesn't stop there. As he helps he grunts and moans and then when his task is finished he (sometimes wipes his forehead) says "whew!" as if it was the hardest job he could imagine.

To say it is "cute" is an understatement.

In addition to lifting things his self-proclaimed job is to be the gate holder. Thomas insists on holding the backyard gate open for mommy to walk through.

I don't know if it is inherent in a male, but his little man mannerisms are obvious and profound.

While I don't force Thomas to be manly or to think that he rules the roost--I have to admit it kind of does my heart good. Yeah I know...not very feminist of me...but I like the idea of raising a good man (someday baby--you better stay small for a LONG, LONG time!).

Chw-ee, where are do?!

2011-10-28T12:01:00.005-05:00

It is nap time, and once again the hunt is on for his best friend. He yells the above question down the steps as I go on a frantic search for the long lost lovey.

I find him hiding and taking a comfortable break from his morning of play time fun with his best buddy and constant companion.

My son is over joyed at the return of Chewey, and they snuggle down for a warm afternoon snooze.

Halloween With The Governor

2011-10-27T23:02:00.000-05:00

Yes, the Governor of Virginia.

Daddy was super proud this evening to show off his family to Governor Bob McDonnell.

We were especially invited to the Executive Mansion for a Halloween party. Kids were invited to dress up and decorate pumpkins. So, this was my first chance to show off my costume handy work. Candice gave Gracie the great idea to go as a caterpillar and a butterfly (since they have been matching since Thomas was born) and since Thomas is really into the Very Hungry Caterpillar, we did before and after. I spent HOURS pasting cutout peices of tissue paper to make Gracie's wings--but they are a sight to behold. And, Thomas is being a trooper with his costume and I am thrilled.

But, back to the Governor, our shy Gracie was polite and shook the Governor's hand when Daddy introduced her. Since I was behind her and holding on to Thomas I hoped for a lucky camera shot--and it isn't bad. But, decided to push the video button quickly for Thomas' turn since I doubted I could get him in the picture while holding on to him. So, I have a video of my son (the future politician) extending his hand and shaking the Governor's hand without being prompted. Did I mention he is hand shaker? Loves it! When he meets people he sticks out his hand. Well, in certain situations (usually church or if daddy is showing him off). I promise I didn't teach him that--but it is too cute!!

But, the best picture by far of the evening came from one of Daddy's co-workers who wanted to tease him that he had no proof he works with the Governor. So, she snapped pictures from the yard while we were with him. I was thrilled to see them!

After we got in to the back yard the kids painted pumpkins. No, let me re-state...Gracie and I painted pumpkins. Thomas instantly went in to shy mode and he was clinging to me and wouldn't have anything to do with the pumpkin...or the chair...or the table. Daddy acted quickly and grabbed a fun size M&M packet from the bowl and he was fine the rest of the evening! So predictable. Anyway, I was trying to keep him from freaking out noticeably so I told him "what if we made Super Why on the pumpkin." He was interested, but still attempting to climb up me. After his M&M's were in hand (and on face and costume) he watched happily as mommy created Super Why on his pumpkin. Gracie made Rapunzel on hers (are you surprised?!)

We didn't stay too long, and left after meeting more of Daddy's important people. We carted the kids and the pumpkins back 2 blocks to the car.

You could tell Daddy had a great evening--I am pretty sure he was beaming. The kids did too...and me too, after I aimed all the air conditioning vents on me in the car--it was unbelievably hot today!

Gracie Meets Gov. McDonnell Thomas Meets Gov. McDonnell

Priceless Quote

2011-10-26T19:00:00.002-05:00

Gracie is super excited about more Republican fun tomorrow and it is all she wants to talk about at dinner. She tells daddy "maybe I will see some of my school friends there!"

Daddy: "This party is only for people who help the Governor, people who work behind the scenes."

Mommy: (smiling) "You have to have to be extra special to get invited"

Gracie looks at her daddy "why do you get to go?"

LOVE IT!! (PS: Daddy laughed *almost* as hard as mommy did!)

Pumpkin Creations

2011-10-23T22:55:00.001-05:00

So, this is our second Halloween/fall here in Mechanicsville, and I have to say we have found several fun fall activities and enjoyed the season.

But, even in Strasburg I always cheated and bought our pumpkins to carve from Walmart (way cheaper!!).

This evening we carved them up, and I think they came out so cute!

Gracie wanted Rapunzel, and thankfully I found a pattern online.

I wasn't sure what to do for Thomas...we had done Thomas the Tank Engine and Barney already. I went hunting online and came up short. That's when I decided to make my own pattern and I did Cailliou. He came out awesome. I was thrilled with my...um I mean Thomas'...pumpkin.

While I was searching online a picture of Angry Bird pumpkin patterns popped up. Daddy loved the idea of making an Angry Birds pumpkin...so he did.

I am sure we are the envy of the entire cul-de-sac.

**Isn't that a GREAT picture of the kids and their pumpkins on the steps?!! Garren can always get him to cheese and look forward for a picture--I don't know why he HATES me to take his picture!!!**

Ready To Run

2011-10-21T10:50:00.001-05:00

Gracie has signed up to do another mile run!

We are super proud of her for wanting to run in her school's race this fall.

Today they got to wear their "workout" clothes to school to help gear up for it. (Isn't this too cute! I scored it at a thrift store and it is pink and perfect!!)

Daddy won't be running with her this time...not because he doesn't want too--but no parents allowed! Well, not exactly, but they will be running in groups by grade level. So, Gracie will run with all of the second graders who signed up. And, I hope there are a few--she is the only one from her class registered to run!

We of course will post pics from race day, which is Saturday October 29th.

Watch The Apples Of My Eye Grow!

2011-10-16T22:24:00.002-05:00

**Click to enlarge**

My Favorite Apple Picture

2011-10-16T21:55:00.000-05:00

The Best Apples In The World

2011-10-16T21:37:00.000-05:00

...grow at home.

The kids and I got in the car early this morning and headed to Strasburg for a day of fun and family and apples.

And, we had the most amazing day. Words can not describe how wonderful the day was. The weather was perfect, everyone was happy, and I literally enjoyed every minute!

We went to church this morning and heard the new minister. Rev. Ed was transfered this summer to Charlottesville, and we haven't been home since June!

After church we went and had lunch (where we usually do) at Gertrude's (George's mom) and the kids played with Uncle George and Aunt Ruth's new puppy "August." A very lively black lab. Yep, she got a new dog. Nope, I don't know what she was thinking--she has enough boys in that house to clean up after! ;)

George and Zachary had plans for the day, but not Ruth--so we were super excited for her to join us at Marker-Miller apple orchard.

Can you believe she had never been!

Oh, what fun! And oh, how busy! I bet there was easily 200 people there! But, we didn't care. We played, we picked apples, we ate apples, the kids rode the cow train...

I was tired--but not excited about knowing it was time to head back.

So, I stalled.

We took Ruth back home and we went to see our favorite neighbors. Imagine our excitement when the Energizer Bunny family...I mean the Mozingo's were home when we rang the bell!

Unfortunately I had no choice but to turn the car around and end our fabulous day. But, I had a HUGE bag of apples, a small bag of doughnuts, and a camera full of pictures to remember it all.

Thomas' First MatchBox

2011-10-15T20:32:00.003-05:00

Like he needs more cars...right?!!

But, daddy couldn't help himself today in Walmart.

Garren remembers fondly the matchbox cars he collected as a child and couldn't wait to share the fun with Thomas.

Now, the age on the car package is 3 and up, but he is past the putting- things- in -his -mouth stage, and he really loves it.

I may not understand the excitement over a dollar car--but I don't think I was meant to. This is for a father and son to share.

***I tried to talk him into a different choice of car (this van looks creepy to me like one a drug dealer would have!), but just like me trying to talk him into taking a picture of him and his first matchbox car--it didn't go well***

Gracie's First "A"

2011-10-10T20:12:00.002-05:00

In all the excitement of the three day weekend I can NOT believe I forgot to tell you all about Gracie's first A!! (Of course I waited all of 5 seconds to announce it all over Facebook, yes ma, you can complain later!)

Gracie will get graded in three subjects this year, and technically this was an interim report and not a report card, but I have decided it still counts!

So, Friday Gracie brings home her very first grade, which is her very first A! (She gets it from her mama!)

We are super proud. Of course we would be super proud even if she just went to school and ate paste, so you can imagine our boundless pride with the "A."

I can't remember off hand which subjects are graded this year, but this A was in Math!

A Visit To The Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-10T19:44:00.005-05:00

So, we had planned to take the kids to Ashland Berry Farm yesterday (Sunday), but Thomas ended up taking a 4 hour nap--so that plan went out the window. But, I wasn't too crushed since I kind of accidentally fell asleep too.

But, I really wanted to take the kids and Gracie was out of school today for Columbus Day--so I got extra brave and took them by myself.

Ashland Berry Farm is the place we attempted to visit last year, only when we got there it was over an hour wait to ride the hay wagons to the patch! With Thomas being a year and a half then, and the place closing in an hour, we took some pretty pictures, walked around a bit and left.

My friend Heather took her boys yesterday and warned me that it was super crowded. In fact, she told me to go as soon as they opened.

I felt a little weird pulling in at 9:55 (they opened at 10), but that subsided when I saw how many cars (and strollers) were already there.

The kids and I had a great time.

We were on the second hay ride out to the patch. The kids picked pumpkins and carried them back to the loading zone. I had asked them to pick small ones, even though Gracie had her eye on the larger ones. I reminded her that we had to carry them back to the car and they had to travel home. Suddenly, the cute smaller ones were "perfect."

Thomas was super proud of his and he wanted to carry it himself. He told me "I do it!"

We ride the hay wagon back to the tourist trap, uhem, I mean entrance, and we paid for 2 tickets to the kids area.

They had a large hay bale maze and a bouncy house.

They had tons of other things, but the morning was getting late and it was getting hot. But, I had promised Thomas another tractor ride, so when Gracie finished bouncing we rode the hayride to the patch and stayed on and rode it back.

We really did have a great time, and the kids were wonderful. Lots of good memories made. And, I was thrilled at how my pictures came out!! I am including some of my favorites, but I loved 30+ of the 100 I took. Yes, I took over a 100 pictures.

Tough Pumpkins

2011-10-08T18:00:00.000-05:00

Gracie commented later about how tough the little pumpkin were that grew as she was telling Grandma all about it over the phone. She apparently decided this:

" I guess the magic seeds saw Thomas planting them and they knew to be extra tough." --Gracie

How To Grow Magic Pumpkins

2011-10-08T17:30:00.007-05:00

Step 1: Find Magic Seeds

Step 2: Dig Hole

Step 3: Put your seeds inside and cover them up with dirt.

Step 4: Make a fancy-shmancy sign to show were your seeds are :)

Step 5: Wake up in the morning and see the magic before your eyes!

WOW!

Mommy's Pumpkins

2011-10-07T19:58:00.003-05:00

**tonight I read the kids "The Pumpkin Patch Parable" and it reminded me of how my children are like the crops in my life, and I am the farmer...and so it inspired me to write this down for them:***

God planted you in my heart. He choose just the right size and shape of seed to sow.

It was my job to water you and to nurture you and wait for you to sprout. And, oh when you did how tiny and round and wrinkly you were. You were the sweetest, most beautiful pumpkin in the whole patch.

But God wasn't finished with you yet...and neither was I.

Your father and I picked you and wrapped you up in our warm love and brought you home so we could admire you and tend to you properly.

We washed you and pruned you and kept you shiny and neat as we showed you off to all those who wanted to take a peek.

We watched as you grew taller and leaner. You gained a few bumps, and a few bruises, but you were still the most beautiful of all in our eyes.

You are really growing now, and eventually we will have to cut the vines and pray that the stem that connects you to us will stay strong and firm.

We will continue to mold you, and keep you fresh and full of glorious color, knowing that some day all the care we gave you will be the lasting impression on others while you go outside and face the world.

God planted the seed that started you, you father and I shaped and molded you. You will have everything you need to some day let the light inside you shine forth and warm all who glance upon your path.

----

"You are the light of the world--like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.
Matthew 5:14

ABC's

2011-10-06T20:00:00.002-05:00

Speaking solely as a proud mama--this might be the cutest thing ever! Listen to Thomas as he attempts to sing his ABC's!

I got him that phone from the Once Upon A Child here in Richmond. He LOVES it! He loved it in Walmart but I wasn't going to pay that for a baby toy! Well, we scored it for $2.50 and it rarely leaves his hand! Usually he calls Uncle George (whom he can't stop talking about lately!!) or Curry. I have videos of those conversations I will have to upload later.

My New Favorite Room

2011-10-05T19:53:00.000-05:00

I have been wanting to share my new room, but it never seems to be clean enough to snap pictures!

But, I got it all neat and tidy to show off.

I actually re-designed and re-arranged the play room a few weeks ago, and I really, really love it! It is so much more functional.

I really felt like the old room was just a store room for toys. I am hoping this new arrangement will make it easier for creative play and learning (a mom can dream can't she?!!) Oh, and check out the new and awesome child's table I have!! Both kids can fit in/on it and I love it! Got it from the trashy house next door when the actual owners came and cleaned it out!

Just Becase

2011-10-01T19:47:00.002-05:00

I really like this picture I snapped this morning...so I am sharing :)

Republican Fun

2011-10-01T19:43:00.000-05:00

Yes, Republicans have fun. They have fun with bouncy houses, and a fire truck train, and a man on a unicycle and cotton candy and popcorn.

You thought I was going to say something else...didn't you?!

Well, the kids of the Republicans had fun with all of those things, and mine were no exception. Gracie bounced her little heart out and Thomas rode the fire truck train 4 times and got cotton candy. I think we were there to rally the troops--but I was there to chase my kids.

Gracie had been getting excited all week saying "I can't wait for Republican fun!" And I just had to laugh each time.

I think it was called the Republican RoundUp maybe, there were important people there, we got stickers--but mainly I went from attraction to attraction. Those Republicans really know how to throw a party!

Home Depot--On Steriods

2011-10-01T19:34:00.003-05:00

I was seriously not prepared for this mornings Home Depot Kids Workshop--and I was definitely not prepared to do it alone!

Back in the olden days (when I took one child) we made a craft/build, I snapped a picture, she got a certificate and a pin and we went on our merry way.

Well, for the past few months when we arrive the kids get bombarded with stuff. It started out as chips and drinks (sugar water!!) to go along with the build (so now Thomas is only interested in the snack), and then they added in extras like a bag of school supplies in September, face painting, corn hole games with prizes. So, I know to expect an arm load of stuff.

Well, today was Fire Safety day, and I was not prepared for..

the helicopter in the parking lot..

...the firetruck in front of the store...

...policemen/women doing fingerprinting inside the store....

...the police car....

...the free fire hats.....

...the ice cream truck!!....

...and the free ice cream from said truck!!

Thomas was on sugar and vehicle over load!! We barely made it out alive! But, somewhere in the chaos at least one of my children actually built something--good thing since that was the whole reason we were there!

Crafty Wife's Anniversary

2011-09-29T19:32:00.002-05:00

This is what you get for your anniversary when you have a crafty wife...

(the sock bouquet in the middle. And, PS: thanks mom & dad and Jack & Cheryl for the anniversary cards!)

And, when you live no where near friends or family you go out to dinner and find the most romantic booth...for four.

But, hey we went out!

Happy 11th Anniversary to my beloved husband. While it is quite an achievement, we have reached the Huxtables level of marriage safety "we have to band together to combat the kids!"

Disney On Ice--Part 2

2011-09-22T22:36:00.003-05:00

Gracie has been counting down the days until "On Ice" as she calls it. I had known about the show coming for months, but had no plans of telling her. However, glossy marketing let the cat out of the bag for me!

Since we attended Princesses on Ice back in December, we are on their mailing list, and new and shiny color invite to Dreams Come True On Ice arrived in August. Gracie did her best begging and pleading and bargaining. Even when I told her I had planned all along to take her--the constant chatter didn't stop.

So, finally tonight was the night.

This time I got better seats and got a bargain for attending opening night. Now, the downfall was that it is a school night, but she promised and promised to get up in the morning.

Now, I have to say, Disney knows what it is doing. The show was as impressive as the last--maybe more. I think I actually enjoyed this one better than the winter show.

Gracie of course, loved every second and she only took breaks to breathe as she blindly shoved over priced popcorn in her mouth.

The price of admission was worth it to see my daughter mesmerized.

Mommy kind of enjoyed all the ice dancing fun too...well, maybe more than kind of.

Back To School Night

2011-09-22T20:28:00.004-05:00

Second Grade seems to be going pretty well for Gracie and her classmates, and the teacher seems to think so too.

Gracie, Thomas and I all went with Gracie to get a better look at her classroom and meet her friends and teacher. Of course we met Mrs. Hayden at "Meet Your Teacher Night" before school started, but it was rushed and chaotic. Tonight she got to tell us about the class and rules and what she expects.

Thankfully for Thomas, daddy came about 5 minutes into it and took him home. He was already squirmy and it was quite a lengthy talk.

Gracie went off to play with her friends and the toys while I sat in her small, uncomfortable school chair.

I was pleasantly surprised to see many parents there tonight. Last year there was a total of FOUR of us parents at the event. It is good to see more parents wanting to be involved this year (and yes, I know that just because you aren't there for an event doesn't mean you aren't involved--but it makes a statement).

Oh, and Gracie was right--Mrs. Hayden will be their teacher for 2nd and 3rd grade. I forgot what they called it: loop teaching? Anyway, they already do it with 4th and 5th graders, and now they are starting it with 2nd & 3rd. They will have the same teacher and the same classmates again next year. I have to admit I am kind of stumped as to why this is beneficial--but we will go with it.

The Peculiar Mr. Shipley

2011-09-21T18:13:00.005-05:00

While I try to be even, I know I focus on Gracie when it comes to this blog, so I thought a good post about how Thomas is doing would be a good thing.

Well, he's still...Thomas

At age 2.5, his vocabulary is growing, but still very limited. While I like to get excited about new words, his two newest aren't exactly my favorites. Maybe because they are all I hear from my father. Thomas' new vocabulary consists almost solely of "yep" and "nope." Add in a very strong southern drawl for both.

He still doesn't eat well. He practically doesn't eat at all. He lives off of all things liquid. Seriously, the child will drink anything and everything. His health doesn't seem to be impeded by his vary sparse diet. I think mostly because I have found a sneaky and awesome way to get good food in. Sesame Street has these veggies/fruit juices that has all of those good things in them hidden by cute little packages with Big Bird, Elmo and Cookie Monster. Love them!

He doesn't like to be dirty! And I add the exclamation point because it is not a sometimes kind of thing--he does NOT like to be dirty, messy, or otherwise soiled. The picture above speaks a thousand words. He wanted to play outside, but found his feet messy with the grass clippings from where daddy mowed the weekend before. I had to go and get him a towel. He freaked out and held his feet up saying desperately "messy! messy!" Now, once he is cleaned up, he will go back to whatever it was he was doing. And, that isn't limited to being wiped off. If his shirt or pants are dirty or damp he will start yanking them off. There is no persuading him. He would rather run around naked than be messy.

Still a big "nope" on the potty train ride. He can use the potty, he just doesn't want to anymore. So, I think it is time to be a little more firm. We have just let him go back to diapers so as not to push him, but I think we need to up the ante.

He is still small...but growing. I have started to notice that his 24 months clothes are fitting more snug and are a little short. In fact, Sunday I went through 3 pairs of dress pants before I found one that fit. He outgrew the 18 months and the 24 months. He fits well in 2T. I am hoping that he will go into 3T when he hits 3, but we will wait and see. I have stopped buying 2T clothes--mostly because he has a ton and I would rather invest in the next size.

But, as I said he is growing. He went up a 1/2 shoe size and had to get new ones right before Gracie started school.

Other Thomas loves: cars, trucks, fire trucks, bulldozers...you get the idea. Calliou!! Calliou!! Fireman Sam, Super Why (yeah, I have no idea, but he freaks out when this comes on), the book the Very Hungry Caterpillar (is read nearly every night), Biscuit (the dog) books, his chalkboard, and of course Chewey!! (and blankie and binky--nope, we aren't off the bink yet :(

Academically he knows all of his colors, his ABC's and now we are working on numbers and shapes. He can count to 10, but I am working on recognizing the numbers on paper.

So, there in a rather small nutshell is my little boy. Not much has changed about him. His personality shines through more every day and little by little his words are emerging, but he is still WAY below where he should be verbally.

He seems to just be a peculiar little man with his adorable quirks. We will take him just the way he is.

Our First Mechanicsville Football Game

2011-09-16T22:28:00.002-05:00

We have been talking about things we want to do as a family this fall, and I thought about going to a local football game.

Well, good thing I struck quickly, I forget that high schoolers only have a limited number of home games.

I saw that tonight was one--so we went.

Our goal was to make it through halftime and we did! Actually we made it half way through the 3rd quarter.

Thomas was to antsy to stay any longer even though daddy and Gracie would have liked to see the end of the game.

Next time we will do like we did for Thomas' first football game and take separate cars so I can take little man home and daddy can enjoy the game with Gracie.

We treated the kids to a Sonic late night snack after the game, but mostly because we were hungry. The kids had already been spoiled with cotton candy! Yep, Thomas got his first cotton candy. But, that wasn't the plan! I took him to get popcorn. What high school football concession stand doesn't sell popcorn?!! We came back with one pink and one blue swirls of sugar on a paper cone.

Did he like it? My junk food junkie? He LOVED it!

He loved the band too--he just thought they were loud :)

Milkshake Day

2011-09-12T14:51:00.002-05:00

Actually I didn't know it was National Milkshake Day until someone posted it on Facebook--what better excuse to make milkshakes?!! Thankfully I had just enough ice cream and milk left.

Gracie wanted to drink hers from a crazy straw--so then Thomas wanted one too. She got the red one (close enough to pink) and he got his favorite color: purple.

Happy Grandparents Day

2011-09-11T14:51:00.001-05:00

Not Much Of A Suprise

2011-09-09T19:28:00.001-05:00

Gracie had to fill a small brown lunch sack this week with 3-4 things that would help show who she was. The activity was entitled "mystery bags" and all of the students would do this and bring them in making sure no one saw the contents. The teacher would choose one and show the class what was inside and they would have to guess to whom it belonged.

They did Gracie's today. She put on a long face when I asked her about it. She says "everyone knew it was mine!"

Let's see if you would know it was Gracie's bag too. In her mystery bag there was:

1. a ballet Barbie doll (she says "becuase I want to be a famous ballerina when I grow up)
2. a Kelly Doll's dress (she loves dresses--she choose this--I didn't say a word about what to put in there!!!)
3. a pink crayon (because she likes to draw and her favorite color is pink)

Thomas And The Vroom, Vrooms

2011-09-09T14:51:00.005-05:00

I thought "why not?"

It is not often that I get so brave--but I did today.

Thomas and I were loading up in the car to take daddy's suit to the dry cleaners, and you could hear the NASCAR drivers warming up around the track. Yep, you can hear the cars from our house they are so loud!

So, I thought "why not take him to the track? Maybe he could see something."

And boy could he. I finally found an entrance (with the hundred of others) and I parked (with the hundreds of others) and we walked right on in to the racing fun.

Now, we didn't go inside the staduim even though the tickets were $10 to see them practice, because you would have to have ear plugs and he wouldn't have lasted 2 seconds with all that noise.

So, we settled for looking around at all of the vendors and car displays and trucks and so so much more. He got a free toy race car and free nuts (which I didn't let him have--choking hazard!) and mama even bought him an overpriced drink.

He had a blast!

Now he did cover his ears for almost all of it as he usually does for noise and new situations, but his eyes were panning and zooming up a storm. He would break for a moment and point and shout "car!"

I had no idea that the track offered a free space for race fans and toddlers--but they do and I am so glad that I got brave and just went! I didn't plan, call ahead, or even Google it--I just went--and we just had a great time!!

Wanna hear how loud it is?

And Then It Was Over

2011-09-07T14:49:00.001-05:00

...just like that my days as a mommy as I knew them were over. And it was all thanks to a tee-shirt. A stupid, Wal-mart special, everyone has one, tacky tee-shirt!

I am well aware how dramatic I can be--and it's my blog so I can complain if I want to!

Gracie had told me she wanted to wear her 2nd Grader t-shirt I had made her for the 2nd day of school. She was supposed to be getting her clothes out and ready for the school day (today) and I was downstairs finishing up.

Minutes later daddy comes down the stairs with Gracie in tow asking about her Kermit the Frog t-shirt.

I won't get into the drama and the "discussion" and my fountain of tears that followed--I will simply say that at the end of the night her daddy told her she could start wearing whatever she wants to to school.

I know she is a "big girl" and I have to give her some freedom--I get that--but I wasn't ready for this one. She wants to look like everyone else, I want her to look nice, clean, respectable and to shine. Not stand out in a finger pointing way--but for her to stand out in a glimmering sort of way. Any child can wear a raggedy old t-shirt!

Now, if you are new here, I am very strict about what my kids wear--especially in public (i.e church and school and social events). I have a long list of "do not wear," but the rule in question was "no printed t-shirts to school." Obviously her school t-shirt was the exception.

I could go on and on about my feelings about how my kids dress. But now, that I have had time to brood and cry and pout and cry some more, I think the bigger question is "what's next?" What rules am I going to have to give up next? What will she go behind my back and talk to her daddy about instead of me? What more independence will she demand?

And more importantly...how do I mother this child? She clearly needs a whole new parenting style.

I am good at preschool and younger. In fact, I am awesome at it! I can help you learn your colors, shapes, ABC's. I will make up fun games and crafts and songs. I have no idea how to be a mother to a 7 year old. The preschool method can't possibly work anymore, and I haven't the slightest idea how to do it. I have to move past colors and counting and move on to self esteem and choices.

I don't guess any mother is prepared for this transition. Then again, most mothers realized they needed to transition long before 7. Of course, there was a time when 7 was 7...and not going on 17!

This all started with a shirt. A stupid, common, printed character t-shirt. I now hate that shirt, and all of them like it in her drawer.

National Read A Book Day

2011-09-06T20:06:00.002-05:00

Yep, look it up :)

Actually, I didn't know it until late today...and tomorrow is National Buy A Book Day. Since you know how much I love to read with my kids you shouldn't be surprised by my excitement. Anytime I can share a book with them is pure joy for me.

Tonight I had to pick a special one (and a favorite) since Gracie is now in the big world of 2nd Grade, and Thomas is getting to busy to sit still on mommy's lap.

I don't think Sam McBratney's "Guess How Much I Love You" will ever get old for me!

Soggy Start To Second Grade

2011-09-06T19:44:00.002-05:00

But the rain didn't wash out her spirits!

My Gracie bounded out of bed this morning ready to face the school day with her new teacher, new classroom, new classmates, new backpack...and new back to school dress made by mommy. (You can imagine my thrill when Gracie asked me to make her a back to school dress for this occasion! I finished it last night ;)

Gracie barely ate her breakfast and she got dressed and I braided her hair.

We made the damp walk under the umbrella to the bus stop that has been vacant for 3 months.

I snapped some pictures and she was off.

Thomas wasn't exactly bouncing off the walls like she was for the start of school--but he seemed to enjoy having mommy all to himself. Although, he did ask several times "Gee-cee?" I told him she was at school and he would grin and shout "skool!"

Thomas and I waited in the rain for the bus to return and she bounced off the bus as happy as she got on. And, she chatted about her school day ALL AFTERNOON and evening until finally we put her to bed.

She seems to have had a good first day of second grade. I certainly hope the rest of the year is just as good.

Workin', Supervising, Eating

2011-09-03T13:24:00.000-05:00

I know Gracie is really the reason we go to these Home Depot workshops and she did an excellent job on her wipe board, but I caught the cutest pictures of Thomas (when he was actually helping!) and I had to make something cutesy with it.

I am sure Grandpa (Thomas calls him Pa-Pa!!!!!!!--just like that with all of those exclamation marks) can't wait to take him on the job site with him--but I hope he isn't counting on Thomas getting much work done. He is more of a supervisor who takes a lingering snack break ;)

2nd Grade Introductions

2011-09-01T21:07:00.003-05:00

Gracie has a new classroom...and a new teacher...and new classmates...and a new backpack...and...well, you get the idea. And, she is super excited about Second Grade!

Gracie has been counting down the days until school starts since, um, the last day of school!

Her new teacher, Mrs. Hayden, seems very nice. She is a new teacher at MES, but not new to teaching. She seems happy and perky, so I think she will do well--at least for me. I seem to do better with the excited ones. I like that they are excited about teaching my child. We will get along just fine.

Since this is a returning year for Gracie most things were typed up and we just had to check everything--which was nice! So, I got to bypass the mountain of forms. Gracie put her supplies where they belonged and we said our goodbyes, and went to say a brief hello to Miss. Anderson. The were both excited to see each other and Gracie gave her big hugs before we left.

It seems like a good start to the year. Here's hoping!

Beach Babies

2011-09-01T13:07:00.004-05:00

I keep harping on the fact that it was our first vacation in 4 years, but it was well worth it. And, sorry folks, I don't consider stays with family to be vacation ;) Of course, if you are family its going to be a long while until you see us again. I have ZERO plans of getting back in the car and traveling more than 20 minutes with my son! Yep, we will see you when he is 3.5...3 if you are super lucky!!!

But, back to the vacation, it was wonderful! We were only gone a few days thanks to Irene--but we enjoyed the time we spent. And, I have never seen my husband so relaxed. That kind of made the 5.5 hours worth it! (For those of you playing along at home, the original vacation plans were for NC, which would have only been 3 hours at the most, but when Irene pooped all over the Outer Banks, she pooped on our vacation--and so when Brian changed his location, we went along too!)

I won't blog about every detail, but I will show you pictures!
(Lets see if this works)

Relaxation Vacation

Pictures of Brian's Family for Grandma

Summer's End

2011-08-28T12:29:00.007-05:00

No, my 2,00th post wasn't my last....Candice! But, I have to admit it was my longest hiatus from blogging. Then again, this might have been the longest summer in Shipley history as well.

Nope, we didn't do anything, and to be honest there wasn't much to blog about...but in case you are just super curious, here's what you missed....

Haircuts
August 2

I took both little darlings to Pigtails & Crew Cuts (the place that does Thomas' hair so well) and they both got trims. This was Gracie's first salon experince as far as cutting...she got beautied once, but not her hair cut. And, Thomas was somewhat a trooper for his hair cut in the Police car again (I let her use the clippers for a closer cut at the neck--big mistake!!! He freaked).

Home Depot Kids Workshop & Grand Prize Winner!
August 6

We successfully took both kids to Home Depot and made projects and walked away with a baggy of free school supplies. Both kids were also entered in a drawing for a new backpack. And guess who won?!! Gracie!! She was so thrilled!

Thomas' 1/2 birthday
August 9

Who need a reason to celebrate their kids? Not me! I figured out when each of their half-birthdays would be back ion March when poor Gracie missed out on her birthday completely. I had been wanting to do a 1/2 birthday celebration since Candice shared the idea with me.

We had a half dinner (deviled eggs, PBJ sandwiches cut in half, half-full cups of drink...you get the idea) and a half cake and I (of course) included a theme: The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Trust me...it was super cute. He didn't have any idea what the celebration was for, nor did he really care, he was just thrilled I let him drink green cups of flavored water...oh, and he got cake.

The Earthquake
August 23

Odds are you didn't miss that one! But, whew--it shook all of us up really well. Well, not Thomas, he didn't even notice. Why? Well because he was throwing a fit about having to take a nap--and I thought the shaking was him jumping up and down. I quickly realized it wasn't and moved in to super mom mode. I was thrilled to know in an emergency I score a 10. I slammed down my salad bowl and ran up the stairs and grabbed my babies and ran down stairs again. It only lasted a few minutes, but it seemed like a lifetime. Poor Gracie was shaken for days! No one slept and we were all on edge. Thankfully she and her daddy talked it out and he shared with her charts and info and websites (She may look like me, but she thinks and acts so much like him!) and that helped her...and them both.

Irene
August 27-28

You may not have missed that one either--but as if we needed more drama! 4 days after the earthquake, or earth-quick as Gracie calls it, Irene shows up on our door step and didn't shut up for nearly 28 hours! So, she made us worry and fret and stay inside for two days...or and we had to wait to go on the planned vacation we had (for the first time in 4 years!)...and drive further to vacate than planned. But, she mercifully let us keep our power--so I guess I can't get but so mad--but I am pretty unhappy with her! We came out with no damage, just debris, and a re-nervous child.

----

Now that the countdown to school is on our lives will (HOPEFULLY!) be back on schedule and we can all settle in to a more familiar and easier pace (you hear that Thomas?!!)

So, consider my hiatus over and welcome back to my blog--you know you missed me! ;)

My 2,000th Post

2011-07-28T21:05:00.001-05:00

This month is my blog-a-versary....yep, I made that up...but I have been blogging now for 6 years! Wow!

And not only that, many of you have been reading my excitement, my disappointment, my anxiety, pride, enthusiasm, and complaints...not to mention my misspellings 2,000 times now.

This post is officially my 2,000th!

Wow--I am a blabber mouth--or blabber fingers? But, hey, you've been listening/reading, so I guess that makes you nosy too huh? :)

Curious about what got it all started? Well, my friend Shannon was pregnant with her first child (Luke) and she started a blog and emailed all of us to tell us about it and how we could follow along with her pregnancy. As soon as I saw it--I wanted one! Garren rolled his eyes at the idea--but look at me now! I had to have a place to show of my Gracie! Well, I wanted to show her off, but I also instantly knew it was a great way to share my daughter and our adventures with family and friends all across the globe. Sometimes, technology is awesome!

Wanna read (or re-read) my first post? You can see it here: My first blog post, July 2005

So, Happy Blog-a-versary to me!

Summer Blahs

2011-07-26T13:34:00.000-05:00

Now don't you all flood the comment section, I am not depressed, I just am not a fan of summer.

It is too hot! I hate the heat--the oppressive, can't breathe heat that comes with summer and apparently this part of the world. Not, that we are that far from Strasburg, but I have decided summer was more tolerable there.

So, I am super far behind in blogging, but truthfully, there isn't a ton to blog about. I have been sewing, the kids have been playing, we've done lots of crafts and projects, the garden is giving us minimal results, we have been going to church, we go to the library once a week and Gracie has spent a week at Grandma's.

There is no real relief from the heat, so we are staying inside, and even though there are tons of amusement parks within an hour, and a beach front within 1.5 hours--we haven't gone anywhere. We tried a park with a water attraction inside once, but we had to leave after 23 minutes because of a storm.

I feel like the kids have been cheated in away. We have zero access to a pool (and we don't want to play literally hundreds of dollars to join one), so I have bought two blow up pools now. The first one was thrown away because I didn't keep it clean, and the second on is more of a splash pool, but so far it is still hanging in there on the rare evenings it is cool enough to let them outside. Gracie is out of school, but we haven't done anything extra like the movies, or a vacation, or other summer activities.

Garren's work schedule doesn't allow for extra days off, and when the weekends get here he wants to make his lawn pretty and relax...and if you have (ever had) a toddler, you would understand how nearly impossible it is to do something "extra" without help.

So: blah.

I think I might actually be looking forward to September. I love fall anyway, and Gracie is super antsy without the structure of school.

We still have a month left before school though, and I bet it will be much like the past 2 months--just blah, and nothing outside of staying inside and staying cool. Kids arguing, making messes, me cleaning them up and playing referee.

Yep--nothing here to read folks!

I Am So The "Cool" Aunt

2011-07-17T20:25:00.002-05:00

I think I get bonus points today for letting my learner's permit carrying nephew drive my car to lunch after church, and then home from lunch.

Yep, I am the cool Aunt!

Out Of The Mouth Of Gracie

2011-07-17T19:01:00.000-05:00

Mommy: Gracie, look those people have their clothes on a clothesline (mommy points this out because I doubt she has ever seen this "phenomena")

Gracie: "Yes, and I saw a sign at that street that said "no outlet" so they can't have a clothes store!

Mommy: Rolling!

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Gracie spies Thomas in just his swim diaper as we head down the stairs to Grandma's pool... "Is Thomas going to swim male?"

You can thank grandma for that one since she points out all the things Thomas does as "being male."

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And Up and Down, And Up And Down Day

2011-07-04T20:17:00.000-05:00

First, I should say happy fourth, and second I will say good thing you weren't along for the Shipley family coaster ride today!

DOWN: We aren't going to Strasburg like we planned

UP: We find a water park inside a state park that looks like fun

DOWN: It starts storming (BAD!) after 23 minutes at the park

UP: Daddy decides to treat kids to McDonald's for dinner

DOWN: Power starts to go out in McDonalds and we take the bags and rush to the car

UP: Daddy promised ice cream at Sweet Frog

DOWN: Sweet Frog has outdoor seating (it is storming like CRAZY)

UP: Mommy makes kids matching t-shirts for the day

DOWN: There is no way we can go to a fireworks display with Thomas and storm

UP: Daddy buys fireworks to put off in front yard

DOWN: Kids are scared of them, Gracie hides, Thomas covers ears and both stay inside

UP: Mommy bought $1 package of glow sticks and kids have a great time with all the lights off inside.

We hope you all had a great 4th!

The Great Mommy

2011-06-24T10:39:00.007-05:00

Monday
"Mommy you are the best lasagna chef in the world!"

Tuesday
"Mommy you must be the smartest mommy ever!"

Today
"You are the best mommy!"

Are you taking notes?

Cleaning Service

2011-06-24T10:39:00.006-05:00

Gotta love Gracie's ingenuity. I guess her father is succeeding at raising a little capitalist ;)

Summer Letter Writing Project

2011-06-21T10:38:00.002-05:00

One of my many bright ideas to keep Gracie going this summer seems to be a hit. I thought now that she can write, she can practice her skills and send letters.

I decided that 30 would be a good ambitious number for summer. So, this summer you may get a letter from Gracie.

I made her a list of people she might want to write to and a paper to tally up those she has already written too.

Her only restriction: she can't write them all to Grandma. She has to choose 30 different people. She can write more than 30 if she wants and she has been told she can write to Miss. Anderson (who gave all of her class her address) as many times as she wants--but we are only writing her name down once.

So, today she got started--and sorry ladies--she choose her first letter to go to Mallory!

So watch your mailboxes, and if you happen to get one--think on writing her back. And we are still excited about our postcard project, so keep those coming, we have already gotten 3 since I asked (thanks Sara & Abby!)!!