Just Another Day in Paradise!

Disney 2012

2012-02-10T12:22:00.001-05:00

More pictures and details coming...

Lunch Bunch!

2012-02-09T21:11:00.001-05:00

Jalen is growing up so fast. At his school, he has lunch bunch every Friday. As a Mom, I can't wait to write notes every day and pack his lunch. He's such an amazing little boy who never fails to amaze me!! Where does time go?

Here we come....

2012-01-29T17:50:00.001-05:00

Color Time!

2012-01-22T15:31:00.001-05:00

Today we spent some time coloring an making cards! Jalen really enjoyed it once he got into it. We colored a Star Wars picture together. It was a lay-low day.

Grandnana Visit

2012-01-15T19:49:00.001-05:00

The other weekend we made the trip down to see Grandnana and visit for awhile. She's such a strong, young lady. She never sees wrong in anyone and can never say anything negative about anyone. A true inspiration.

Basketball

2012-01-15T19:48:00.001-05:00

Jalen's First Basketball Practice :)

2012

2012-01-15T19:40:00.002-05:00

It is now well into 2012 and we have so much to look forward to this year. 2011 was a year of ups and downs. There are moments in 2011 that hold a dear place in my heart from when Jalen started playing soccer (or professional grass picking) for the first time to when we learned how to say goodbye to someone who we never got to hold to our first annual Crohn's walk to when Jalen took off swimming without a vest. 2011 was a year that will never be forgotten, but 2011 also reminds us how God has impacted our lives. He has truly blessed us with so much. He constantly sends us reminders that He will never give us more than we can carry on our shoulders. If there is one thing that 2011 has taught me, it is that family is forever. Many people walk in and out of our lives, but there is one thing that remains the same, it's family. I don't know if I could've made it through 2011 without our family. They've been there to rejoice with us, wipe our tears, celebrate with us, and so much more. I am thankful and blessed to have two wonderful families that I couldn't thank you enough for all that you do. Here's to 2012 that is filled with so much from a Disney World trip, Neriah (our new neice), Jalen playing basketball, and a wedding. God continues to bless us and I thank Him every day for what He's given us.

Big(ger) Boy Room

2011-12-27T21:26:00.001-05:00

Jalen's room has been updated. Ki, Ry, & Aj got him new Star Wars bedding, so Nick and I moved the beds around and got him a full size bed. He is in love and it seems to actually give him more room to play. He is excited someone can actually sleep with him because he has room for two pillows side by side.

Christmas

2011-12-26T22:46:00.004-05:00

We are so blessed. Jalen was super excited for Santa and got everything he wanted. He is so into Star Wars and for two people (Nick and I) who know nothing about Star Wars this isn't a good thing. Thank God for family members who absolutely love it. He got Star Wars galore for Christmas and lots of toys he's been wanting including a basketball goal and a Kindle Fire. He is definitely a spoiled and loved little boy. It is so much fun for the holidays to see all of our family together hanging out. I have to say this Christmas really brought light to how blessed we are to have family to celebrate with. God is good! Hope all had a Merry Christmas and remember the reason for the season -- HIM! :)

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T23:24:00.001-05:00

Ride with Santa on a Train

2011-12-11T21:03:00.003-05:00

We went down to Bonsal, NC to go to the train ride with Santa. The boys had a blast going through all the trains and then riding the hour ride train ride with Santa. Jalen and Ryan were a bit scared of Santa at first, but then by the end of the train ride they were yelling all the different things they wanted out. It was a lot of fun! :)

Christmas 2011

2011-12-11T20:59:00.002-05:00

I love Christmas and decorating for it. It's so much fun and especially when Jalen is so excited and wants to decorate every room in the house with stuff. :) It was cute, Jalen told Grandpa on the phone that we have Christmas trees everywhere!!

Elf on the Shelf

2011-12-03T13:21:00.001-05:00

This silly elf was sitting in Elmo playing trains this morning when Jalen found him! Jalen said he is very funny!

His Tree!

2011-12-02T21:31:00.001-05:00

This year Jalen wanted a new tree for all of his ornaments so I agreed. We went to Wal-Mart and came home with a 6-foot tree and 20 silver balls! He loves it though and proudly turns it on everyday. He's waiting for Santa and can't wait for him to come... He made me put his presents under his tree. I love this age and this time of year. It's such a blessing to be able to have fun with Christmas and for him to still know the true meaning of the season! By the way, he painted his own star!he had to have a star on his tree! It wasn't complete without it.

Elf on the Shelf

2011-12-02T21:27:00.001-05:00

This year Santa sent Jalen a magical elf. He delivered him while Jalen was blowing the leaves! He is very excited. He named him Daffy. We went through names like Scooby, Angry Bird, and Sneaky (Nick's suggestion), but Daffy (we shortened from Daffy Duck) is what he decided. We hope to have years of fun with this!

Pullen Park!

2011-11-23T11:13:00.001-05:00

Yay! We are so happy Pullen Park is now open again! It is so nice and still such a fun, neat, and reasonable place. We are excited for all of the picnic areas! More pictures to come...

This is what happens..

2011-11-23T11:12:00.001-05:00

When we go outside and splash and splosh in the mud.. We have to enjoy outside from inside!

My Baby

2011-11-17T21:19:00.001-05:00

Watching him sleep never gets old. I love our nightly routine of reading, giving hugs and kisses, thanking God, and saying "sweet dreams." I would not trade these moments for the world. He is the greatest gift of my life!!

My Fixer

2011-11-14T21:14:00.001-05:00

"Jalen, will you be my baby forever?"

"No, Mommy, when I get to be a big man, I'm going to be a fixer -- I'm sorry!"

Have to love this little boy!!

Scientists!!

2011-11-13T20:21:00.001-05:00

Jalen and Ryan had a blast making the scientist lab at Lowes this past weekend. They've had more fun with baking soda and vinegar than I ever thought they would!!

Best Friends

2011-11-06T17:40:00.001-05:00

These two are truly a part of our family! We never thought they'd get along like they do. They fight but then lay with (or on top of) each other! Izzy bathes Lady. We think Lady thinks Izzy is her Mama.

Worms?

2011-11-06T17:38:00.001-05:00

Jalen? Pick up a worm!? Yes, today he did! This is the first time I've seen him get his hands dirty and truly grab every worm! I love fishing. Who would've thought I'd ever say that? It's more than fishing.. It's being with my Dad, spending time with Jalen and Ryan, and remembering it's the simple things in life that matter the most!!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T22:17:00.001-04:00

Rag Wreath

2011-10-25T20:12:00.001-04:00

My new creation I'm very proud of! I love it. I'm determined to decorate the house with all "our" stuff! Customize your own today -- ha!

Fun on the Farm

2011-10-23T17:07:00.001-04:00

Halloween

2011-10-22T23:25:00.001-04:00

On Friday, we had a fun time eating pizza and carving pumpkins! The kids enjoyed getting all the seeds out and figuring out how they wanted their face to look like on the pumpkins! The adults enjoyed the cutting part. We all had a great time and they came out really cute. We ended the night with Emily's beautifully designed cookie cake!! Yummy!!

Soccer Season 2 COMPLETE!

2011-10-22T23:16:00.001-04:00

It's hard to believe that season number two is already done. Jalen was super-excited to have another trophy. It is well-earned. I'm so proud of him. He loves getting out there and running around. He passed out really fast tonight!! So proud of him!

2011-10-16T21:01:00.002-04:00

It's amazing to see how fast they grow up. She's already walking everywhere, talking up a storm, and being a ham! Where does time go?!

Hilarious!

2011-10-16T20:56:00.002-04:00

Jalen never failed to make me laugh -- ever!!

"Oh me gosh, Mommy! Come here!" "No, Jalen, I don't want to look at your poop!" "Mommy, seriously, oh me gosh, come here!" I walk there. "Look, Mommy, I just think I ate too many cherries from Skinny Dips. My poop is red. Oh me gosh, Mommy. It's hilarious!"

I'm cleaning the shower with this new stuff that you spray on and it makes it easier to wipe grime off. "Mommy, what's that? Is that Oxi Clean?" "Why, yes Jalen, it is!" -- Oh the things TV teaches our kids!!

"Mommy, I want that." "Jalen that's for girls (it's a Barbie hair straightener). Daddy would get mad." "But, Mommy, you just buy it and give it to me and we won't tell Daddy." "Why do you want it?" "I wanted to give it to you as a present, you'd love it, but Daddy wouldn't let me buy it." -- He's so freakin' sweet!!

Sunday's at Grandpa's!

2011-10-10T21:37:00.000-04:00

Jam Session 101

2011-10-10T21:19:00.002-04:00

Jalen loves to sing and dance, especially his ABCs and the sounds the letters make, but the other night he enjoyed rocking out to some music. He has so much energy and he never fails to make me laugh!

Soccer

2011-10-10T21:08:00.003-04:00

Not My Child Monday!

2011-10-03T18:08:00.003-04:00

Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to http://www.mycharmingkids.net to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.

While we were buying something from a lady we found on Craig's List, my son did not get out of the car, find a bush in the Target parking lot, and pee on it, as we are making change and getting the item! Nope, not my son!

Nope, my child did not tell me that he wants to drive this past week. Nope, he's not only 5. And he did not tell me exactly what kind of car he wants! Nope, not my child! :)

Mommy...

2011-09-30T12:43:00.003-04:00

Jalen is growing up way too fast! He amazes me with all he is doing and all that he continues to learn. One thing he never fails to do is make me laugh!

Laying on my chest watching TV - "Mommy, I can hear your heart. You have a beautiful heart, Mommy."

Driving home from Target - "Mommy, look at the moon!" I told him it was a crescent moon. "Mommy, the moon is made of cheese!!"

Sitting in my lap - "Mommy, I want to drive. I want to drive a car. When I get bigger and bigger I can?" "Yes, Jalen. You got to get really big. Do you want a super fast car?" "No, I just want a big car like Grandpa's. I want white and big. I am scared to go fast. Will you come with me in my car? I want you. I don't want to be scared." I will remind him of this conversation when he is 16 and not wanting me in the car!

Best of Friends

2011-09-29T21:28:00.002-04:00

...there is something special between these three little ones and I thank God every day for blessing me with them. They each are so different, but have so much love for everyone and thing around them. They truly are amazing kids!

Sunday Fun!

2011-09-29T21:22:00.003-04:00

Last Sunday we watched Ryan while Grandpa was out of town. We decided to keep it low key and headed to the park. Both of them wanted to play basketball. It was cute seeing them run around and chase the ball. The dogs came along too! :) They liked to throw the ball with Nicholas and make goals and they also liked to throw the ball and tell Uncle to go get it! It was quite humorous to watch.

Corn Maze

2011-09-29T21:17:00.003-04:00

The other weekend we headed out to the Philips Farm Corn Maze! There is so much to do there and it is definitely an all day activity. There are two corn mazes, corn shoots, pumpkin shoots, cars to drive, hay ride, cow trains, slides, etc... It was definately a fun time and something we would go back to. We got lost in the big corn maze...for an hour and fifteen minutes!!!

Chex Mix!

2011-09-29T21:14:00.002-04:00

The other night I went to a cooking show with my Mom and sisters and had a great time. We learned quite a few recipes. The other night I decided I would be industrious and made Chocolate Peanut Butter Chex Mix and Pumpkin Pie Chex Mix. Both were delicious and super easy. Close your eyes because some of you might get some for Christmas :-D

Soccer Saturdays!

2011-09-26T06:00:00.000-04:00

Jalen is playing soccer again. Last week it was cancelled, but this week it was on! Jalen had a blast and I have to say he did not pick any flowers this time around. He did great, listened to instructions and participated. He is ready for next week!!

Man's Best Friends!

2011-09-25T10:00:00.000-04:00

It's true... Jalen is best friends with his doggies and his doggies have become best friends, as well.

Just Fishin'...

2011-09-24T21:00:00.001-04:00

I’m lost in her there holdin’ that pink rod and reel
She’s doin’ almost everything but sittin’ still
Talkin’ ‘bout her ballet shoes and training wheels
And her kittens
And she thinks we’re just fishin’

I say, “Daddy loves you, baby” one more time
She says, “I know. I think I got a bite.”
And all this laughin’, cryin, smilin’ dyin’ here inside’s
What I call, livin’

And she thinks we’re just fishin’ on the riverside
Throwin’ back what we could fry
Drownin’ worms and killin’ time
Nothin’ too ambitious
She ain’t even thinkin’ ‘bout
What’s really goin’ on right now
But I guarantee this memory’s a big’in
And she thinks we’re just fishin’

She’s already pretty, like her mama is
Gonna drive the boys all crazy
Give her daddy fits
And I better do this every chance I get
‘Cause time is tickin’
(Yeah it is)

And she thinks we’re just fishin’ on the riverside
Throwin’ back what we could fry
Drownin’ worms and killin’ time
Nothin’ too ambitious
She ain’t even thinkin’ ‘bout
What’s really goin’ on right now
But I guarantee this memory’s a big’in
And she thinks we’re just fishin’

She ain’t even thinkin’ ‘bout
What’s really goin’ on right now
But I guarantee this memory’s a big’in
And she thinks we’re just fishin’
Yeah, aww, she thinks we’re just fishin’
We ain’t only fishin’
(This ain’t about fishin’)

School

2011-09-12T06:00:00.000-04:00

Jalen had a great first day of school and a great first week. I hope my little man has a wonderful second week..

God Bless America!

2011-09-11T06:00:00.000-04:00

The Day..

2011-09-09T21:58:00.000-04:00

is June 9, 2012!

Proud to be an American

2011-09-09T21:42:00.003-04:00

It's hard to believe that ten years ago was September 11, 2001. It is a day I will never forget. I can't remember a day in 2001 other than that day and I remember it very vividly. Sitting in my 7th grade social studies class in the middle of the classroom in the 5th row from the door, an announcement came on explaining what had happened. We turned on the television and watched until the bell rang. In the hallways after the bell rang, it was silent. No one was talking, just walking along to class watching TVs inside the classrooms. I remember getting home and watching it, recording it, and never really stop watching it.

Today, we had a moment of silence in school. It gave me chill bumps. Over 3,000 lives lost.. The children, who are in third grade, had no clue what had happened and why we were doing it. It's hard to believe 10 years have past. Sitting here in bed watching the stories and the shows about it bring tears to my eyes (the ugly tears). I pray for all the families and children who no longer have mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, etc... God Bless America!

September 11, 2001 - A Day Never Forgotten..

Sisters

2011-09-04T17:40:00.003-04:00

There is something special about sisters...

they're the ones you call when you've fell up the stairs,

they're the first ones there for you,

and they come even though you told them they didn't have to!

they're the ones that you can spend all day with

but continue to text throughout the night.

they're the ones you can be yourself around.

they're the ones that will watch your children

and you never worry one bit.

they're the ones you can laugh and have fun with.

they're the ones you have a relationship with

that no one else can understand.

they're the ones you call when you've had a bad day, good day,

or just need someone to talk to.

they're the best friends a girl could ask for!

Happy Birthday, Brooklyn!

2011-08-31T17:37:00.000-04:00

Brooklyn:

It's hard to believe you are a year old now. Time flies when you are having fun. You are such a beautiful girl and we are so blessed to have you in our lives. You keep us smiling and laughing from your cute little silly face you do to how you are already walking everywhere. You bring joy to our family and we are so glad you are a part of it. I wish only the best for you and I am excited to see what the next year holds. We love you pretty girl!

Auntie, Uncle, and Jalen

Birthday Party

2011-08-22T23:16:00.004-04:00

Angry Birds Birthday Party

2011-08-22T23:06:00.005-04:00

This year was a lot of fun to plan for Jalen's birthday party. We chose Angry Birds as the theme (thanks to the wonderful people who suggested it)! For those that don't know, Angry Birds is a game that Jalen (and the rest of the family) plays on the phones and absolutely loves! There is no birthday decor out there for Angry Birds, trust me, we looked, so everything was completely handmade and authentic. We had a blast celebrating with family and couldn't of asked for a better party!! Enjoy!!

* Angry Birds Cake by Simply Cakes

* Angry Birds Cupcakes by The Cupcake Shoppe

*Tower made by Jessica

*Angry Birds Pinata by Lyss

Happy Birthday, Jalen!

2011-08-20T22:06:00.000-04:00

It's hard to believe that my baby is five years old. They say time flies when you're having fun, but man, I wish it'd slow down a little bit.

Jalen:

I have to say you bring me more happiness, smiles, and laughs than any one person in this world. You are the best little boy ever. There is not a day that goes by that I do not thank God for blessing me with you. Every day I wake up to the most precious smile and a sweet little 'Mommy.' You have your ways to make me smile from telling me I'm a beautiful Mommy to holding my hand when we're crossing the parking lot. There is not one thing in this world that I wouldn't do for you. I love you more than life itself and will always be there to support you in any venture that you chose. You are so smart and make me a very proud Mommy. I love you little man!! Happy Birthday!! I look forward to another blessed year...

Love,

Mommy

Fun in the Sun

2011-08-14T22:09:00.002-04:00

Here Comes...

2011-08-13T09:51:00.002-04:00

...the bride!

On my birthday, Nick decided that he would take me out to eat instead of having a family dinner with everyone. I had no clue where we were going! He rushed me to get ready, as I was taking my time and we went to Peak City Grill in Apex. We enjoyed a few drinks, thanks to some amazing friends and ate dinner. Nick decided he was going to order a salad to eat, but just pushed it around his plate more than anything. We talked and had a great time. He bit his nails and everything else! Finally, the check came and he said I could open my present. I opened it and found a beautiful purse, sparkly TOMS, and a picture frame. The picture frame had a diamond ring with stones and stones saying 'marry me' on it with a picture of us. I dropped the frame and said yes, while he's down on his knee. I sat up, wiped my tears, and started talking again. I even put the frame away. He asked where it was and I realized my ring was in the frame. Didn't even see it! Needless to say, I cried again. It was a great time. Afterwards, they came up with a bottle of champagne and we enjoyed a glass. I was a little bummed that I didn't get to see all my family for my birthday, but I knew I'd see them the next day. When we drove home and walked in the house, I walked into the kitchen to everyone being there. It was the greatest surprise ever!! I am told my mouth dropped for like a minute before I said anything. Overall, it was a great day and I couldn't of asked for it to be any better!!!

Busy

2011-08-08T10:00:00.000-04:00

We've been busy lately! We've been going to school, celebrating birthdays, taking pictures, swimming, enjoying the rest of our summer break, taking last minute vacations, and more! I'd love to write posts for each one, but it seems like I can't ever get my act together and write a million posts! So, here is a recap in photos of what we've been doing, as I head to the beach!! :)

Michelle Tomlinson Photography

2011-08-07T08:40:00.001-04:00

Basketball

2011-08-06T10:32:00.004-04:00

Nick came home from the gym and Jalen decided it was his turn to go play basketball. He asked Nick to take him to the park, so he did. Before he went, he changed out of his PJs and found some basketball clothes, then found his special basketball shoes. He went in the kitchen and jumped as high as he could and told me it was his special shoes. I tried, but I couldn't jump high cause I had flip-flops he told me. He had fun running around shooting and playing. We brought the dogs and they loved running free everywhere.. Jalen will play Town of Cary basketball (if I ever remember to go turn it in!)

Smurfs

2011-08-06T10:25:00.005-04:00

Jalen has a smurf-tastic time at the Smurfs. It was his first time going to the movie theater and he loved it. He enjoyed eating tons of popcorn and drinking his diet Coke. He saw the poster for 'Cars 2' and decided he wants to go see that, too. I have to say that I hate him getting older, but I sure would miss a lot of fun times if I kept him little forever...

Burning Question...

2011-08-01T21:50:00.004-04:00

I know you all have the burning question of what we do on Monday nights? Does Lyss just sit on the computer while Nicholas plays video games? Does Jalen go to bed really late? Well, here you go...this is what we did this Monday night!

Oh August...

2011-07-31T23:01:00.002-04:00

Every year I look forward to August because we get to celebrate all the birthdays and I get to plan Jalen's party and in that aspect, I have still looked forward to August, but in another aspect, I dread this August. This August, the 25th to be exact, I start my internship. It is exciting because I get to graduate soon after, December 16th to be exact, but I dread having to leave my baby for so long. Many times I go all week never being apart from him, so to go from never leaving him to leaving him 40 hours a week for around 12 weeks is extremely hard. I actually hate the thought of it. It kills me to know I can't pick him up from school or even take him until December. It kills me that I don't get to ask him how his day was first. It kills me to know that I don't get to dress him every morning or spend the day doing fun things or just nothing at all. From this, I've truly realized how it is the little things in life that mean the most and sometimes we take them for granted. Also, I've realized how much family support we have to make all this work. So with the first day of August here, I am excited and happy, but sad at the same time. I only have 136 more days until I graduate, but who is counting?

Happy Birthday, Salah!!

2011-07-27T05:17:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday, Salah! We love you very much and are so happy we are able to be a part of your life. You continue to make us smile and laugh with all your funny sayings. You'll always be our little tiny girl :)

Love,

Auntie Lyss, Uncle Nicholas, and Jalen

Happy Birthday and Happy Anniversary!

2011-07-26T05:05:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday, Oma and Happy Anniversary, Oma and Opa!

You two are amazing people that we are blessed to have you in our lives. Thank you for everything that you do for us.

One Week

2011-07-25T14:03:00.002-04:00

We've survived the first week of puppyhood. She's doing great and getting big. Last week we took her to the doctor and she was 8 pounds 4 ounces and we will be going again tomorrow to start vaccines. She had some tapeworms last week that we got medicine for. She's doing great and we love having her. We are looking forward to the nights she sleeps through! She likes to howl at night, but luckily she's learned really quickly to go pee and poops outside. Yay!!

Oh no!!

2011-07-21T18:02:00.002-04:00

They're growing up way too fast!!! Oh how I wish I could stop them from growing, but we would miss so many amazing times!

We've expanded...

2011-07-21T17:57:00.004-04:00

Meet our new little girl, Lady. She's a boxer and was born on May 24, 2011. We are very excited to welcome her to our family.. She's doing good potty training and annoying Izzy! They have a love-hate relationship!

Cousins

2011-07-17T14:46:00.001-04:00

These cousins sure do love each other!

Visiting Grandnana

2011-07-17T14:41:00.003-04:00

We were able to celebrate Grandnana's birthday with her while we are at the beach! It was a lot of fun and she was glad to see everyone. She was amazed at how much the kids had grown! It's always great to see her and wish we could see her more often.

Swimming and Digging...

2011-07-15T15:24:00.002-04:00

A Night on the Town

2011-07-15T15:13:00.003-04:00

Last night we went to Broadway on the Beach and had a great time. We ate at our favorite Joe's Crab Shack and then headed down to Build-A-Bear to create some new friends. Jalen created a bear and named him Pookie! Ryan created a triceratops and named him Triceratops! :) It's always a fun adventure!!

Well...

2011-07-13T23:26:00.003-04:00

... girls just want to have fun ...

More Fun in the Sun!

2011-07-13T23:20:00.002-04:00

Surfin' With Grandpa

2011-07-12T22:35:00.006-04:00

Beach Time

2011-07-12T22:28:00.003-04:00

We've had a great time so far at the beach. Today Jalen surfed for the the first time and had a blast. He was not scared of the ocean for the first time and was going under the waves and all. For a little boy who was scared of the beach because it hurt his eyes, he had a lot of fun. Ryan loved flipping sand all over everyone. Brooklyn enjoyed sitting in the hole and having everyone keep her cool. She took a moment and found some lifeguards to keep her safe. We look forward to the rest of the week!!

Fun at the Pool

2011-07-12T22:19:00.004-04:00

Before we left for the beach, we went to the pool and had a blast swimming! We've determined that Jalen is rubbing his no-fear mindset off to his cousins!

Fun in the Sun Soon!!

2011-07-08T16:06:00.002-04:00

Oh the fun and new memories we are looking forward to in less than 3 days!

and Miss Brooklyn's first time to the beach in the summer! Yay!

Thankful

2011-07-03T23:31:00.002-04:00

The past week has been one of the toughest weeks that I've been through in a long time, but it has taught me new lessons of life and reminded me of a few things.

I am thankful for...
- a son who has changed my life forever and for whom I thank God for every day. My little hero!
- a boyfriend who supports me no matter what and who has been there through good times and bad.
- my parents who have never given up on me, even when there have been times they probably should have
- two sisters that are my best friends, can complete my sentences before I even finish thinking about what I was going to say, and who are always there no matter what the situation is.
- my nieces and nephew who I couldn't imagine my life without, love like they are my own, and who I would do or give anything for
- nick's family (well, mine too!) who always supports us and is always ready to lend a hand, no matter what or who.
- a home, not just a house.
- friends who are always there and have never left my side.
- most importantly, God. I have to say I might never understand His plan or why things happen the way they do, but I have to say no matter what the situation He is always there to lean on and for that I am grateful.
... the list could go on and on

Auntie will always love you and look forward to the day I can see your beautiful face.
Thank you for being the best angel of Hope.

Where Does Time Go?

2011-07-02T21:17:00.001-04:00

This was my baby almost 4 years ago... Where in the world does time go? This is one of my most favorite pictures!!

Goodbye, Williamsburg!

2011-06-30T17:09:00.002-04:00

We had a great time in Williamsburg. We enjoyed having fun together, riding the rides, laughing, and exploring a new city. It will now be a lifelong adventure. A city a year! Right now though, we are looking forward to our next vacation which is in less than 2 weeks. Yay!!

Day 2

2011-06-25T11:05:00.003-04:00

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We had a blast exploring Busch Gardens. I have to say it's one of the prettiest places with some of the nicest people. We look forward to going to Water Country now! See you soon!

Hello, Williamsburg..

2011-06-24T09:17:00.003-04:00

Jones' Crohnies

2011-06-19T22:36:00.005-04:00

We are proud to say that we raised $1,915.01 for the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation! We are one step closer to finding a cure and we couldn't be any prouder. Thank you to everyone who donated,prayed, and supported our team. We truly appreciate it and are amazed at the amount of people who took us a step closer to a cure!!

Aquarium

2011-06-12T10:01:00.002-04:00

When we went to the beach this past week, we went to the Aquarium and had a blast. At first, Brooklyn and Ryan slept and we were afraid they weren't going to wake up until we were getting into the car to leave, but they did, and were able to enjoy the fun. All three loved watching and chasing the one otter that actually woke up to entertain. They loved watching the sharks, snakes, and turtles. They enjoyed seeing the different fish and jelly fish. Jalen still mentions the things he saw there..

Beach Fun..

2011-06-08T17:30:00.003-04:00

The kids had a blast hanging out on the boat and at the beach for the day. Ryan and Jalen enjoyed finding crabs and watching them, but everyone was amazed when we saw a Loggerhead turtle in the water right in front of us. It was a hot, but great day!

My Little Nemo!

2011-05-28T07:00:00.001-04:00

Graduation Day!!

2011-05-27T15:27:00.003-04:00

Today is the day.. Jalen graduated from preschool. He did a fabulous job at his graduation and had a great year. Jalen was super excited that Grandpa, Oma, Opa, Li, Brooklyn, Ki, AJ, Ry, and Auntie Kia was able to come to his graduation. He did all of the songs perfectly and I have to say he had the best slideshow picture. Everyone loved his crazy baby hair.. I can't believe how big my baby is and it's hard to believe that next year he'll be in Pre-K. We are very blessed.. Jalen will be going to a Pre-K program at his school now, not Kindergarten. He is excited to stay at his school for one more year.

Time Flies...

2011-05-25T13:53:00.000-04:00

Where does time go? Why is Brooklyn already crawling...?!?

Summertime!

2011-05-25T13:49:00.003-04:00

We've been eagerly waiting for the pools to open and finally, they are starting to open up. We've already gone two days. Jalen loves it and has no fear. He has to stay in his vest. We've already had one jump in without it and it won't happen again ;) Ryan takes after his big cousin and has absolutely no fear what so ever. It's going to be one fun summer, not sure about relaxing, but fun!

Soccer

2011-05-22T20:31:00.002-04:00

I feel like I just wrote that we were starting soccer and now we are finishing! Jalen had a great time playing soccer this spring season. It's a good thing we aren't doing a summer league because he would probably faint from the heat! He's a little unprepared for summer right now (even though we had a great time at the pool today). I have to say he did a fantastic job for his first time in a sport and I loved cheering him on. I am thankful to everyone who made it out to see him play, he loves having everyone cheer for him. We are all so blessed.

Happy Birthday, Ki!

2011-05-18T00:40:00.003-04:00

There is something about sisters that no one can explain. I have to say that I am truly blessed with two amazing sisters that mean more to me than words can describe. They both are amazing people with huge hearts that would do anything for anyone. They both have helped me tremendously throughout my life from taking me to play with them (even though they didn't want to) when we were little to helping me with anything I needed with Jalen! Without either of them, I wouldn't be where I am today and I thank God for them each and every day... I love you both!

but, today, one of them is a year older and wiser...

Happy 30th Birthday, Jessica (Ki)!
When I look back to the days growing up, I laugh. I remember the days when we would fight like cats and you would beat the crap of me and Lindsay, especially with your nails, until the day Lindsay and I learned we could team up on you and get you back! To this day, you still have the strength to fight anything that comes your way.. You are an amazing lady with unbelievable strength and that is one of the million things that I admire you for. Thank you for being such an amazing sister and Aunt. I hope you have an amazing day and know that we love you very much!!

Strawberry Pickin'..

2011-05-15T17:05:00.003-04:00

We went to get some strawberries from a farm up from my Dad's house with no intention of picking until Jalen realized you could go in the fields and pick.. Jalen had a blast doing it. We went to the Farmer's Market today and Jalen cried once we got there because he thought he was going to pick strawberries again, but he quickly cheered up when he saw they had blueberries!!

God is Good

2011-05-08T07:00:00.003-04:00

...truly blessed...

Mother's Day

2011-05-07T12:07:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow might be deemed the holiday for all of the Moms, but every day I live Mother's Day. Every day I wake up to the best little boy ever saying my name, smiling, and being a little cuddle bug. I am living my dream. I am thankful that every day I am a Mother and I don't need a special holiday to realize how blessed I am...

Flashback!

2011-05-02T20:39:00.001-04:00

Look at my little man's hair.. Oh how I do miss his afro-puff! Ry has now taken over the afro-puff...

Easter (Part III)

2011-04-24T20:08:00.003-04:00

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T06:00:00.000-04:00

Though the chocolate is great (even though I probably won't say that when I'm in my bathing suit this summer), the cute little Easter baskets are fun, and the Easter bunny pictures are cute, that is not what Easter is about. Easter is about Him. Easter is about what He did for us. In this world it is too easy to get caught up in what holidays are not. I admit, Jalen has a fine Easter basket, but he will also grow up knowing that Easter is about Jesus and how blessed he is.

Have a happy and blessed Easter. He Is Risen!

Easter (Part II)

2011-04-23T07:00:00.000-04:00

Easter (Part I)

2011-04-22T09:42:00.003-04:00

We did Egg Spin Art on Thursday morning with Ki and Ry-Ry. It was a lot of fun and a mess free way to dye Easter eggs. Jalen and Ryan enjoyed it and the results were really pretty.

Easter Play

2011-04-22T09:35:00.002-04:00

Last Friday, Jalen was in an Easter play and was an awesome fisherman. He rode in a little brown boat. He was too cute! He sang perfectly and did the hand motions. My favorite was "Deep and Wide." I remember that songs from our Reedy Creek Church days! :)

Ahhh....

2011-04-15T07:00:00.000-04:00

...there's a monkey in our tree!!

and a dog who is supposed to be guarding the house, sun bathing!!

Storytime

2011-04-13T16:14:00.004-04:00

We got to watch Brooklyn the other day and Jalen is such a good big cousin. He read a couple books to her and was doing a great job. Brooklyn seemed to enjoy it and I have to say that I enjoyed listening to him read. Such a sweet boy.

Growing Up Too Fast...

2011-04-11T07:00:00.000-04:00

Where does time go? They are all getting too big..

Soccer!

2011-04-09T16:52:00.003-04:00

Jalen had his first soccer game/practice today. I tell you I was super proud as a Mom. I never realized how fun sports and cheering him on would be. For his first time playing anything, he did good. He understood the concept and definately always like to be playing and not waiting in line for his turn! He wore his super fast shoes and shin-guard socks, then brought his glow-in-the-dark green and blue ball. He was decked out from head to toe! Next week he will wear his super fast jersey. Yes, everything is super-fast.. have to keep the interest going!