Happy Birthday Lil' Monkey!

Today my baby girl turned TWO :-( I cannot believe it. I wish I could put us all in a vaccum tube and keep us at this period in time forever. We would never grow up, just stay right here. Ally Brynn, you are getting so big. You are talking in sentences now and love to say "HUG, KISS." You are so lovable and I just eat it up. We cuddle forever and you will let me just get as many hugs and kisses as I want. Ayden barely ever sits still for kisses anymore so I LOVE it. You weighed 30 lbs at the DR.'s office and Ayden weighed 44 lbs. Dr. Mac says that you are in the 85 percentile for your age range...Ha Ha.. my back could have told her that. You love to be carried. You also love having a big girl cup now and are very interested in your little girl potty beside Ayden's big potty. You haven't been sitting in your booster seat at the table because you say you are a "big girl" and prefer to sit in the big chair. You eat anything I give you and still LOVE to sleep. You are the perfect baby. This weekend, you woke up at 9:00am, told me at 10:30 "go night night, my pappy" so I laid you down and you slept until 12:00. When you got up, we had lunch and played until 3:00 and then you were ready for nap two. You slept until 5:00, woke up for supper and more play time and then went to bed about 7:30 or 8:00 for the night. At daycare you only get one nap midday. I can't believe you make it since you sleep so much at home. Baby dolls, puzzles and books seem to be your favorite toys right now and you are very much a girly girl. You watch me put on my makeup and love to get "ipstick on." You always put on my underwear and bras and walk around the house. Too funny. You are my little angel and I thank God for you everyday. We decided to theme your birthday party in monkey's this year since you have your room done in girly monkies and you are into everything...soo curious. I baked two monkey cakes, one with a strawberry cake and chocolate icing and the other yellow cake with chocolate icing. You LOVED them and loved eating them. We had bananas, banana chips, chips and dips, mini corn dogs, deviled eggs (that daddy filled) and chex mix for your party. Ally of your friends and family came to wish you a great birthday. Because the party was in the evening, and cut into your bedtime, you were really tired half way thru opening presents and we have to wait until tomorrow to open the rest. Chi and Carley let you borrow an adorable monkey smocked dress to wear to your party and you looked like a little princess. Watching your smiles and excitement tonight was priceless. Happy Birthday baby girl. I love you so much! Mommy.

Ayden's Christmas Program 4K

Well today was a doozy! It is Ally Brynn's 2nd birthday and I was up until midnight last night baking monkey birthday cakes for her party, birthday cupcakes for her birthday party at school, wrapping Ayden's Christmas gifts for his Christmas party at school today and getting clothes ready for their busy day. After gathering all of our goodies to take to their schools and getting everyone out the door, I had broken a sweat. After taking Ally Brynn to school, we headed to OP to watch Ayden's school Christmas program. Me, Daddy, Mimi and Nana all came to watch Ayden and his class perfrom two beautiful Christmas songs. You did so good Ayden and we really enjoyed watching you sing, play with Skylar and wave at us. After the program, Mimi and I went to help with your class party. You were so excited to have us their and couldn't wait to go home. You knew that we had alot to do for Ally Brynn's birthday tonight. I had such a great time with you this morning AD! Here are the pics.

12-17-08 Christmas Time

Ayden, Last night you went with Bert, Carley and Chi to sing Christmas Carols with their church, Trinity Presbyterian. You guys went to individual houses and sang and then went for a visit at the nursing home. Daddy, Ally Brynn and I received a call from Chi and Bert when you left the nursing home. They told me how much the residents of the nursing home LOVED you. Chi said that you would go and hold the residents hand and tell them "Merry Christmas." You sang them songs and brought tears to their eyes. There were even women requesting for you to come over and see them. It fills my heart with pride and love to hear the sweet things that you do. Bert caught a great picture of you and Carley visiting and I am so happy to have that picture. I plan to take you back before Christmas to witness the happiness that you can share with these residents. I love you so much! I also wanted to share the story of your Christmas shopping for Mommy and Daddy at school today. The school requested we send a little money for you to go shopping in the Secret Santa shop for gifts for us. When I got to daycare to pick you up, Mrs. Vanessa had a hand full of beautiful red and green beads in her hands. She asked me "How much did you love this bracelet?" I told her that it wasn't mine because I had never seen those beads before. You immediately started crying and said "I bought you that from school for your Christmas present, and SHE popped it." You shoved a little girl forward and told her she needed to apologize. Your little heart was broken. After calming you down, we went inside to get your things and I saw that you had a white bag and tissue paper strewn all over the place. You showed me a beautiful silver snowflake pin that you also bought me. I asked what you got daddy and you showed me a Tootsie Roll cardboard canister piggy bank filled with tootsie roll wrappers. I asked where the tootsie rolls were and you said you ate them :-) You left daddy 2 tootsie rolls! Then you pulled out a plastic candy can half filled with m & m's. You said that was for daddy too. I couldn't help but laugh because you love sweets just as much as I do. Daddy really gave you a hard time this morning about his gifts. He couldn't believe you ate his gift. Ha Ha. I told daddy that you get it honest! I told him the story of when I was a little girl, and we had to sell the World's Finest Chocolate for school. I can remember that my parents had a bowl full of silver dollars in their drawer and I spent almost all; Ok maybe ALL of those silver dollars on those candy bars. I probably ate a whole box! Yes, mom and dad, that is what happened to those silver dollars :-) Ha Ha Anyway...these are the times that I love and the stories we will tell your children one day! Merry Christmas! Mommy

Airport Santa and Ayden's first Flight

It is Sunday December 14th. Today Nana came over to try and take a few pictures for mommy to use on her Christmas cards. I know it is last minute but with work, birthday party and illnesses, the days have really been flying by. Speaking of flying, we went to the airport today because we heard that Santa may be stopping by for a visit. There were lots of children there hopping to see Santa and tell him what they want for Christmas. Everyone was so excited when he came flying into the airport in a lear jet. Leading the way was a small red plane doing tricks in the air. He was called "Rudolph." Santa did not arrive alone at the airport. Some helpers unloaded bags of gifts for all of the girls and boys that were at the airport. Ayden, you were so excited and waited paitiently for Santa to call your name. When he did, you gave him a big hug and told him thank you. Ally Brynn wasn't quite as excited about Santa. She would only get as close as the suckers that were beside Santa. She has been sick with a virus all weekend and only wanted to be held all day. She was so tired. After visiting Santa, Mommy, Daddy, Ayden, Ally Brynn, Nana, Papa, Richie and Sunny all went to see Papa's plane. We took a few pics and decided today would be the perfect day to take Ayden for his first airplane ride. He was so excited and looked so big sitting with his Daddy and Papa in the cockpit. Once they returned, he explained all the houses he saw and said that "it dropped my heart a little bit." Little did he know that I was feeling the same way. They had a wonderful time and by the grins on all three's face, I don't know which had the most fun! Here are the pics...

Ayden

Ayden...on our way home from school yesterday we discussed your day as usual. I love hearing about the fun things you do at school and mostly the bible stories that you tell me. Well yesterday, you once again amazed me with your strong perception and witt. You started telling me about something that happened during bible time. So I stated "You really enjoy bible time at school don't you?" You replied..."Not really." This was not what I was expecting to hear since we are always talking about a lesson from that day or week so out of curiosity I asked "why." You replied "Because it is so sad." "why is it sad," I asked. You said "because Jesus was put on that cross and beaten." I knew this was coming from the Live nativity sceen we had visited the weekend before when you comforted Ally Brynn and told her not to be scared during the crucifiction sceen. I told you that what you had seen the weekend before was not real but that they were showing us what really happened along time ago. I also explained that becuase Jesus died on that cross, we would be able to one day go to heaven and live with Jesus and his daddy God. Ayden, you quickly responded with "God is not Jesus' father. I was really surprised with this response because we have talked about Jesus and his father God sooo many times so I said "yes, God is Jesus' daddy." You said "NO, Joseph is Jesus' daddy." I was speechless! This was one of those moments where I really had to back up and think of how to explain this simply to a 5 year old. While I was thinking you said "Did Joseph turn into God when he got older?" I said no that Joseph AND God were Jesus' fathers. You were fine with this answer. Sweeeew! I think that trying to explain heavenly father versus earthly father would be a little out of his realm right now. Ha Ha. I wanted to remember this conversation and how amazing my little man is. Bring on the rest of the questions....

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas

This weekend went by soo fast. Saturday Mommy and Daddy gave Ally Brynn her birthday present a little early. We spent the day playing outside on it and she and Ayden had sooo much fun. It is a miniture version of Ayden's swing set. We figured that since she is only two, she won't mind an early gift. Saturday night, we picked up Papa and went to see the Christmas lights in the gardens, the New Hope live manger sceen, and the lights around Orangeburg. Ayden has been to the Live nativity sceen every year for the past 3 years and LOVES it. Last year he told Jesus "I love you Jesus. We just went to see Santa." This year he watched intently and when we got to the crucifiction sceen, he told Ally Brynn "Its OK baby, you don't have to look if you don't won't." He is very protective of her and she of him. It is so sweet. We had a great time and really enjoyed spending it with Papa. We just missed Santa in the gardens but plan to see him very soon. Here are some of the weekend pics.

The Fanning's Christmas Portraits

On Sunday Rachel, Shane and baby Shelby Fanning came by to let me take their Christmas portraits. We had so much fun and baby Shelby was so good. I am so eager to expand my knowledge of photography and having such wonderful subjects to practice on is so helpful. Here are a few of the pics.

15 Days Until.....

Ally Brynn turns 2! I am in party mode...searching for ideas, themes and cake ideas. I can't believe you are almost 2. You are such an independent little girl (I can't possibly imagine where you get THAT from). You have started biting just like your brother used to do. I am so worried. You do have all four molars coming in so I am hoping the biting will ease off as your teeth move in. You love your Elle (the pink elephant that the Walling's gave you when you were born) and your pacifier. You chewed up the good pacy and we are down to our last one. Daddy and I keep saying that once this pacy is gone, that is it. We aren't buying anymore. I hope that is true. You are much more attached than Ayden was to his pacy. You love being held and at you last trip to the doctor a few weeks back, you weighed 29.8lbs. We go to the doctor for your 2 year old shots on the 22nd and I will post all of your measurements and weight. It is so hard holding you now but you don't take no for an answer. You love your Bubba and are very protective over him. Anytime we are playing on the floor, you push us away from Ayden. You think we are trying to hurt him. It is so sweet. Well, I need to get back to party planning...I am so excited about your birthday! I hope you love it. I love you. Mommy

Carolina/Clemson 2008

What a sad day for Gamecock fans! We really had a good feeling this season that we would beat those tigers. Oh Well...maybe next year, right? Ayden, you are so confused about which team you want to pull for. Uncle Greg loves Clemson and so you hear him talking about the Gamecocks but Mommy, Daddy, Aunt Camie, Uncle Ken and Pa all pull for Gamecocks. The morning of the game I told you that you would have to pick one team to pull for all day since they were playing each other. You decided to go with the Gamecocks (I think the fact that I had tattoos for our faces played a HUGE part in this decision). You put your long sleeve white t-shirt on and your gamecock jersey. We put a cocky tattoo on your cheek and got ready for the early game. Halfway thru the game when we were getting beat really bad, Ayden you took your jersey off and revealed that you had a Clemson shirt on underneath the Gamecock jersey. You were prepared. You are so entertaining, I swear. Despite the cold, rainy weather, we had so much fun with all our friends and you had a blast with Laken, Clay and Tori. Ally Brynn you were passed around all day and one person even asked if you could walk. You love all of the attention and spent the day being spoiled rotten. Nana came and picked you guys and Laken and Clay up and ya'll spent the night with her and Pa. Even thought the gamecocks lost the game 14-31, we sure enjoyed the day with all our good friends and good food. Here are a few of the pics....

Thanksgiving 08

Happy Thanksgiving Babies! We spent the day at Mammy Tines for Thanksgiving this year. Uncle Jerry is home from Seattle and what a treat to spend Thanksgiving with him. Almost all of the family was there this year except Spence (he was home with a stomach virus:-()It is so amazing to see how big our family has grown over the years. Within the last 2 years, we have had 3 new babies (all girls I might add) and a new wedding proposal - Congrats Nikki and Chris! We are still waiting on Matthew and Jess....we will keep praying! Getting to spend time with our family is always chaos and lots of laughter. There is always someone cracking jokes (usually Uncle Mike) or doing something silly (most of the time Nana, Mommy or Jessica). This year, we caught up on our family portraits. Ally Brynn, you loved baby Shelby so much. You kept saying "Hold it, Hold it." When we put her in your lap, you gave her kisses and said "Hey". Aunt Lydia and Jess even said that you pointed to Shelby and said "I want one." Ha Ha Ayden, you loved playing in the yard with Harley, Zack, and Clay. Ava tried to tag along with you guys but I don't think she could keep up. I know that Mammy Tine especially loves all of us being there and this year she made sure to point out to all of us that our HUGE family all started with just two people. Ayden and Ally Brynn, you never met any of your great grandfathers but this Thanksgiving I am sure they are smiling down on us and saying how precious you both are. I asked Ayden and Daddy what they were most Thankful for this day and Daddy's response was "My Family...most definitley" and Ayden your response was "That God gave me Ally Brynn." I am most thankful this year for each of you. I am thankful for our health, I am thankful that mommy and daddy have jobs, I am thankful that we have a roof over our heads and food in our mouth. I love you with all of my heart and feel so furtunate to have been given all of the blessings that God has given us.

Happy Birthday Daddy

Happy Birthday Daddy! Today is your 32nd birthday and the kids and I wanted to let you know how special you are to us. You are the best daddy and husband in the world. After 14 years together, I can't imagine spending my life with anyone else. I love you more and more with every passing day. I asked Ayden a few questions about you on the way home from school/work yesterday. One was "How do you think Mimi and Papa came up with the name Andrew Steven for daddy when he was born?" Ayden's response was "I think they had some ducks they names Andrew and Steven and maybe that is where they named daddy from." Then I asked "What is your favorite thing about daddy?" Ayden's response was "He loves me!" Next was "What is your favorite thing to do with daddy?" Ayden's response was "I love riding four wheelers with daddy." One other thing I asked was "How much do you love daddy." Ayden's response was "As much as the whole wide world." We made these video clips for you to tell you how much we love you. You almost caught us with one but we were able to finish up before you came in. Ayden wouldn't quit chopping on the beef jerkey that you gave him and Ally Brynn wouldn't take her eyes off of it! Too Funny :-)

Smith Thanksgiving

What a busy weekend! The holidays have arrived (faster than ever) and we had our first Thanksgiving meal today at Sommer and Keith Judy's in Summerville. Dad, Aunt Camie, Uncle Greg and I had your cousin Jantz' wedding in Charleston on Saturday night and we stayed in Charleston. Ayden, you and Ally Brynn spent Saturday night with MiMi and she and Grandmama brought you to Sommer's Sunday morning. Ayden, as soon as we arrived, you were eager to show daddy and I that you could pet Reeces' dog. He was a bigger dog and you were not afraid at all. Ever since you were small, you have not liked dogs. The past few months however you have really come around. You, Reece, Kayla and Conner spent most of the day in the yard playing. At one point, you guys came in with a dead frog to show everyone. You guys were throwing it on each other and just laughing, laughing, laughing. It reminded me of the poem...Frogs and snails and puppy dog tails, thats what little boys are made of. I almost painted your nursery in that theme. I enjoyed watching all of you play so good together. Daddy and I talked tonight about how close all of you will be growing up, since ya'll are all so close in age. These times are so precious and I know you all will be grown before we know it:-(



Ally Brynn, you spent the day inside getting lots of attention. You and Aunt Camie played on the floor, you and Kendall did each others makeup and everyone just loved squeezing and getting kisses from you. You and grandmama even negotiated some kisses for chewing gum. Grandmama was getting her lipstick out of her purse and you immediately started saying "Gum,Gum." You know what is usually inside a pocket book Ha Ha! We had a great day with exceptional food and fun times. It was great seeing everyone and just spending time together.

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Uncle Jerry's Home

Today Uncle Jerry, Nana's brother, came home to spend the holidays. Mammy Tine, Aunt Shirley and I went to pick him up at the Charleston Airport this morning and then met Aunt Lydia at Mammy Tines for lunch. We had such a good time just talking and spending time together, something we don't do enough. Tonight, Aunt Shirley, Ava Minus, Chris Minus and fiance Nikki Dukes, Zackary Bozard, Nana, Mammy Tine, Uncle Jerry, Andy, Ally Brynn, Ayden and I all went to eat at Antley's BarBQ for supper. Uncle Jerry loved their BarBQ the last time he was home and wanted it to be one of the first places he ate this time home. Ally Brynn, you and Ava are so cute! Both of you fought over who Aunt Shirley was going to hold. Ayden, you had such a great time with Zach. Your intellectual conversations at supper were so funny. Zach would ask you different things like what 2 plus 2 was and 10 times 29 and you would just make up a number. Nikki, Daddy and I just enjoyed you two so much.

Duck Calling Contest

As most of you know, I have a HORRIBLE memory. That is one of the main reasons for this blog. I don't want to forget the special things the kids say and do throughout the years. I want to capture their experiences and the memories so that I can look back on them forever. Memories of my childhood are very few and far between. I can't remember alot but the memories I do have, are very special. Some of my favorite memories are of my dad teaching my brother and I how to blow the duck call. We would listen to duck calling tapes and go outside in the freezing cold and practice, practice, practice. Every year there was and still is a local duck calling contest held in different parts of SC. Varying age groups can compete to go to the world competition. As a young adult, dad won the local competition, the state competition and made it to the world duck calling contest. I can still remember him going around the house singing "God Bless America" because Lee Greenwood was at that competition and because he LOVES to sing. He had a photo album with all of his pictures from the contest. I remember that album was the type you put the pictures on the page and they stuck to the backing. After a few years, the backing would yellow. The pictues were covered with a clear protective sheet. Do you remember those? Dad has always been an avid outdoorsman and duck calling is one of his loves. I think it is because duck hunting was a past time that he shared with his dad and brothers. Ken and I would always compete against each other and of course he would always beat me. However, at a very early age, this taught me competition and showed me what drive was all about. I can remember being soooo determined to beat him (mostly because I was a girl)and I loved all the attention I received from being one of the only girls to blow in the tournament. If only I could have perfected the feed call, I know I could have beat Ken:-) Regardless of the competition, the time we spent together was priceless. Even today, we all still enjoy blowing and now Ken and I have passed that love to our children. Dad is a judge in the yearly local tournament along with some of his old hunting buddies and the kids have started to compete. Clay (10) has been blowing since he was probably 4-5 years old. He has won all of the competitions he has blown in. Last week was Ayden's second year blowing and he came in second (we didn't find out until 2 days before about the tournament and Ayden was sick). His first year, at 4 years old, he won. Here are some of the pictures from this years duck calling contest at Black River Marine here in Orangeburg. Ayden, Clay and some of Clay's friends had so much fun showing off their duck calling skills and watching dad (Pa) show off his.

Soccer Awards

Well, we have officially wrapped up Ayden's first year of soccer. We attended the awards ceremony Sunday November 16th. Coach Matt Hiatt had pizza and trophies for the boys. Here are a few pictures of The Blizzards 2008 Orangeburg City League and their tropies.

Sunday 11-9-08 Mountain Trip

Sunday 11-9-08

Well, this was the last day of our trip to the mountains. I once again got up early to try to catch some pics of the deer and the sunrise. I never saw any deer but heard them all around the house. As soon as I walked out of the door that morning, a doe blew very close to me. I enjoyed just sitting on the porch in quiet serenity and listening to the sounds of nature. I was so in awe of the beauty of the area. We all got up, dressed, packed, and had some breakfast. Ayden you and daddy headed back to the vine swing for a little more swinging before it was time to leave. Ally Brynn you played with Kylee, Carley and Jake while we cleaned the house. When it was time to go, we headed for town to get Ayden another slingshot. Daddy said that Ayden's broke while they were playing with it the day before. We found a new slingshot and decided to walk down to the river and climb on some of the enormous boulders in the river. Ayden this was amazing to you. You had so much fun jumping from rock to rock and would have never left. Your daddy had just as much fun as you did (maybe more). The two of you are so much alike and enjoy so many of the same things. When we were making our way back to the bridge to leave, we tried to cross a small creek area full of rocks. Ayden your right leg slipped off the rock and you slipped into the water. The water was only a few inches deep but you were devestated. Thank goodness the car was close by and you had clothes to change into. The water was COLD. We talked about the trip a little later and you still said that the swing and the rock climbing at the river were your two favorite parts of the mountain trip. Your daddy and I had sooo much fun this weekend creating memories and new experiences with you two and our friends. We are so thankful to Chuck and Parrish for inviting us.

Saturday of the Mountain Trip

Saturday November 8th, 2008

I started the day dark and early; before the sun began to rise. I wanted to take a walk and hopefully capture some pics of some deer and the mountain sunrise. As I headed down the trail to the house, I rounded one of the corners in the road and there was a doe crossing the road. As soon as I snapped a picture, she jumped in the air and took off. I did get a pic but she is in motion. The sunrise was worth my early awakening and you can see by the pictures. While everyone was waking up, Parrish cooked a big breakfast of bacon, eggs, and toast. We decided to take you all to Chimney Rock park for the day. While we were getting ready, Ayden you and daddy decided to head into the woods to hike up the mountain beside the house. You weren't gone long when you came running back in the house...so excited. You and daddy had made a vine swing in one of the trees on the side of the mountain. We all came out to try it and it was sooo much fun. You kept wanted to show everyone how to do it. You were so proud. You later told me that that was one of your favorite parts of the trip. We later headed to Chimney Rock park. It was a beautiful day with temps in the high 60's and full sun. We took the elevator to the top of chimney rock so that we would be full of energy for a one hour hike to and from Hickory Nut falls (a waterfall). The view was magnificient of Lake Lure and the beautiful fall foliage from the top of Chimney Rock. I was so scared to be up that high and especially scared of you Ayden because you were so unafraid of being that high. You were bouncing all over the rocks. You, daddy, Chuck and Kylee decided to hike on up to Devil's head and look out point to get a higher view. Due to the steep staircases that led up there, the rest of us waited below. Daddy got some great shots of you and Chimney rock from up there. We all had a snack and then headed for our hike. Ayden, you were so full of energy. I told your daddy that if there is one thing about you that I learned on this trip is that you are a leader. You always want to lead the pack and very seldom are you at the end (unless you are tired...like you were on the way back down the trail). Webster defines a leader as one who guides and that was definitley your role on the way to the falls. You ran most of the trail and just about put me into heart failure. The trail followed the side of the mountain and there were extreme drop off's. Mrs. Chi came up with a great way to keep you and Carley from getting too close to the edge. Whenever someone said BEEP BEEP BEEP, that meant you were too close and needed to move closer to the mountain. It worked and you and Carley loved making the BEEP BEEP sound up the mountain. Mrs. Chi always has wonderfully creative ways to keep you guys in line and keep my stress levels down. We made it to the falls and it was so breathtaking. We took some beautiful pictures and stopped for a rest. Once everyone caught up, we headed back down the mountain. Ally Brynn, we borrowed a hiking backpack from Mr.Vernon and Mrs Leslie Smith for you to ride in. We new you would never make a hike and we would never survive carrying you. It was a godsend. Chuck and Parrish rented one on the mountain for Kylee and you two were snug as bugs. All the way back down the trail, you sang and jibber jabbered in daddy's ear. You flashed us cheesy smiles all weekend and they are so cute. You have both your right and left molars coming in on the top of your mouth and they are giving you a fit. You also had a bad cough this weekend which started clearing up Saturday but in spite of all that, you were in such good spirits. We all made it back to the cars and decided to head down to town to do a little shopping. Ayden you got a slingshot and bow and arrow and Ally Brynn you picked out a little black bear and some Caracha's. The women went to pick up steaks while the boys took the kids to the house for naps. Ayden you were too excited about your new toys and spent the afternoon shooting the bow and arrow and sling shot. I think the daddies had just as much fun as you did. Saturday was a day filled with adventure and new experiences. I loved seeing things for the first time through your eyes! I wish there were more time in the day.

Mountain Trip Friday 11-7-08

WOW...What an AMAZING weekend.

I have decided to break the posts up into days based on the large amount of pics I have.

Friday November 7th, 2008
A last minute decision started our weekend journey out at 7:30am. Andy and I decided to head up to Ashville to view the Biltmore Estate before joining the rest of the gang at the mountain house. We knew that we would be in for a challenge taking both of you at such a young age but didn't want to miss the opportunity since we were staying so close by (also, it was the first day of Christmas at Biltmore). We made several stops before leaving town and finally were on the road by 8:30am. It was a long ride but the car games I posted and taking the computer to watch movies on, kept Ayden entertained. Ayden, the expression on your face and excitement in your eyes when we first spotted the mountains was priceless. You began hooping and hollering with excitement. The fall foilage was breathtaking. I can't remember ever going to the mountains in the fall and I was stunned at the beauty of the leaves. I found myself thinking several times over the weekend how amazing it is that God created such beauty. Ally Brynn, you were restless and a little harder in the car. You took a short nap but the only thing that kept you entertained was the SNACKS. Go figure :-) We arrived at the Biltmore estate at about 11:30. I had planned to put you both in your Christmas outfits and take pictures in front of the house but realized quickly upon arrival that we would have a little hike to the house. I didn't want you guys to be in the outfits all day and be uncomfortable. We spent the day on the grounds of the estate, viewing the home, garden, farm and winery. You guys were so tired but were GREAT. Ayden, you LOVED the bowling alley and the indoor pool and Ally Brynn you were intrigued with the painted ceilings. By the afternoon, Ally Brynn, you sacked out and Ayden you geared up. We were so happy to share that experience with the both of you and can't wait to go back when you guys are older to do the horseback riding and biking on the grounds. The estate sits on 8,000 acres and was absolutely gorgeous.

Friday Afternoon:
We arrived in Gerton, NC (I think I am spelling that correctly) at the Whisenhunts mountain house around 5:30 Friday evening. Chuck, Parrish, Kylee, Bert, Chi and Carley were there waiting on us. The house was so beautiful sitting up on the side of the mountain at the end of a windy road covered in yellow, orange and red fall leaves. We were very tired, and after supper, called it an early evening. Saturday would also be a long day filled with new experiences and lots of adventure. Here are the Friday pics from the Biltmore Estate in Ashville NC.

Potty Time

WARNING...NOT FOR THOSE WITH A QUEASY STOMACH

"Pee Pee in tha Pa Tee...Pee Pee in tha Pa Tee..." This was the song and dance we all did for Ally Brynn Friday night (Halloween) as she successfully pee pee'd in her little potty. (We always try to potty before we have bath time.) We were so excited and she was too when she saw how happy we were. On Monday night, Ayden decided to bribe her to use the potty with some of their Halloween candy. She was sitting on the potty and Ayden was instructing her to "PUSH." Too Funny. I went and got her a towel and washcloth (for her bath) and when I got back, I tried to check the potty. She wouldn't get off of it for me to check. It didn't take long for the smell to inform me of what happened. Ally Brynn had POO POO'D in her little potty! Pee Peeing and Poo Pooing all with a few days...YEAH!!!! Ayden was screaming and hollering with excitement. She finally got up and when she saw the poo, she was PETRIFIED. She started screaming and crying. She did not understand and would NOT sit back down to try and finish. It was all so dramatic yet hilarious. My little girl is trying so hard to be grown up and I am trying so hard to keep her a little baby. Oh...she did get her candy out of it all. I have some potty pics and will post ASAP. If there is any advice some of you mom's might have for me on potty training or ways to pass the time in the car, I would greatly appreciate it. We are heading to the mountains this weekend for the kids first trip. Pray for our sanity in the three hour car ride...we have never been this far before in the car but are sooo excited! I have printed car games, car scavenger hunts and coloring pages.

Trick or Treat 08

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Trick or Treating at Nana and Pa's has become one of our yearly traditions. It seems as the world becomes more and more dangerous trick or treating is becoming extinct. Many of the churches and schools are now having Halloween carnivals to keep the children out of the streets. We are very lucky that Nana and Pa live in a wonderful neighborhood in which all of the neighbors know each other and it is VERY safe. Ayden you and Ally Brynn had such a great night trick or treating with Laken, Clay and Ryan as well as some of the neighborhood kids. We loaded up two golf carts and headed out. Ayden you were concerned with the dogs but did VERY good. Ally Brynn you weren't too enthusiastic but the last house of the night, you got down and walked to the door and said "ick o eat." You stood by yourself and got some candy. Everytime someone gave you candy you would say " More Candy." You are so funny and LOVE the sweets. We were also surprised when Macky (Cocky), Zach (The Hulk), Papa and Annie came over for a visit. You guys were so excited and wired on candy we could hardly contain you. We had so much fun watching you guys and can't wait until next year!

OP Halloween Carnival

Cheerleaders, Batmen, Batwoman, Pirates, Ghosts, OH MY! What a fun time we had at the OP halloween carnival. Ayden you were Batman and Ally Brynn a gamecock cheerleader. You two looked soo cute in your costumes and got so many compliments on how cute you were. Ayden you played games and LOVED seeing all the costumes. You saw many of your classmates and friends and even Mrs. Huffstettler, your teacher. Ally Brynn you wanted Daddy to hold you most of the night but finally decided to get down when you saw all the great prizes Bubba was getting. Afterwards, we went to House of Pizza for supper and you both pranced around for the customers. You two are soooo adorable and so much fun. I love you and can't wait to take you trick or treating Friday night. Here are the pics....

Cotton Pickin

Along with all of the other wonderful things that come with the fall season, is the blooming of the cotton around the house. If you squint your eyes just right, you can almost imagine that the ground is covered in snow. A far out wish with our warm winters. The combines have started to collect this beautiful material down the street and so before the game Saturday, Ally Brynn and I decided to pick a few pieces. Being that it hasn't been long since her trip to the fair and the cotton candy she and Ayden shared, her first reaction to the cotton was to eat it...on second thought, this may have been just her first instinct minus the fair:-) She eats EVERYTHING! She is even bossing around the cook at daycare. Everytime Mrs. Diane comes into Ally Brynn's classroom, she tells her to "Go Cook, I eat." Ayden is barely eating anything these days and loves that he can give Ally Brynn all of his leftovers. Here are some of our Cotton Pickin pictures along with a few of the kids playing in the yard. They are playing so good together at this age.

Jell-O Pudding

Boy you guys sure take after your mommy with the sweets. We had chocolate and butterscotch pudding with whipped cream for dessert and you two had a blast. Ally Brynn, you were covered from head to toe and enjoyed every moment trying to lick it all off. Ayden, you didn't want to miss out on the fun and decided to get a little on your face as well. I couldn't resist a few pics.

Rocket Ship

Carley called on the way home today and invited us to come over and play with her new rocket ship that she and her daddy had built. It was a beautiful afternoon. Ayden, Carley and Ally Brynn had a blast playing in the yard. Carley's rocket ship was a cardboard box with two holes cut in the top for Carley and Ayden to ride in. She had decorated it so pretty and even had an on/off switch (a light switch) on the top. In the front, there was a strap hooked so that someone could pull the rocket ship around the yard. Chi was REALLY good at that job:-) Ayden, Bert and Carley got in a little football while Ally Brynn took a ride in Carley's car. Then the girls had princess time when Carley brought her and Ally Brynn some dresses to get all dolled up. They were too cute! What a great afternoon with lots of smiles!

For Saturday's Carolina game against Kentucky, we all got dressed in our burgundy and black and watched the game. Ayden you were all into the game, hooping and hollering. It wasn't until Uncle Greg came over that you began changing your tune and your clothes. You changed outfits 5 times that day. You couldn't decide if you wanted to be a Clemson Tiger or a Carolina Gamecock. It doesn't matter to me which team you choose because Burgundy and Orange both look just perfect on you and I would be thrilled with you going to either of the schools for college (I don't want you to go too far away :-)) Ally B, you are finally beginning to come around to the camera. It has taken awhile and lots and lots of pics but this is one of the first times I have gotten you to sit and smile for me. Such fun because you and bubba are my favorite subjects to photograph.

Laken in Bowman Academy Homecoming

We went to Bowman Academy Friday night to see Laken hand out the crown to the homecoming queen at Bowman Acaademy. She was so beautiful and so grown up out on the field in front of the crowd. She does not like to wear dresses and when she called to invite us, she made sure to tell me that she would be wearing a dress. She was sooo excited and especially excited to see Ayden and Ally Brynn that night. It started pouring down rain right before half time but I managed to grab a few cute pics. You looked so pretty Laken...thank you for inviting us. We had a great time!

Boots in the Rain

We have had such a great time playing in the rain. While Daddy and Ayden went to see if there would be a soccer game this week, Ally Brynn decided to slip into Ayden's rain boots and head outside for some fun. Ally Brynn you LOVE shoes. Any shoes that are lying around the house or by the door are perfect for you to try on. You were so funny trying to walk in Ayden's rain boots. When Ayden and Daddy got back, we were still playing outside and you just loved showing off Ayden's boots on your feet. Here are a few pics.

Ayden's 5th Birthday

It is so hard to believe that 5 years ago, you were born. Where does the time go? This day has been full of laughter, fun, family, friends and a few sad moments of realization that my baby boy is not a baby anymore. You tell me this all the time but it is so hard to imagine. We went to the fair this afternoon with Ally Brynn, Daddy, Nana, Mamaw (Cheryl Walling), Big Daddy (Wayne Walling), Carley, Parrish, Kylee, Kylee's GiGi, Robin Mack, John Mack, Davis Mack, Aunt Debbie, Laken, Clay, Michelle Stillinger and Skylar Stillinger. What an event....you were running around with a smile that was bigger than your face. We rode the roller coaster and slid down the big slide. Once all the tickets were gone, we headed to the house for some hot dogs, cupcakes and ice cream. MiMi, Mammy Jackie, John David, Papa, Annie, Pa, Uncle Ken, Jodie, Kristy and Jake Edmonds, Julie, Lydia and Ansley Riley, Bailey Syl and Andi Jameson, Anna Sanders and J-Bird, Keith Stillinger, Sunny and Richie, Chi and Bert, Chuck and all the gang from the fair all helped us celebrate your special day. You opened your presents and were so excited over all of the wonderful gifts you were given. One, you insisted on opening right away - a batman costume from Mommy and Daddy. Daddy took you in the bathroom and helped you get it on. Mommy went out and informed all of your guests that we had a special visitor come for your birthday.....BATMAN. You came out in full Batman mode...posing and taking pictures with the girls. You were ADORABLE and the girls LOVED it! You even made the whole group sing the bithday song over because we all said Happy Birthday to AYDEN and you were not Ayden at that time. SO we all sang Happy Birthday to BATMAN! :-) Thank you for bringing so much joy and happiness into our lives. You will always be my baby! Just like our favorite book (I'll love you forever) says,
I'll love you forever
I'll love you for always
As long as I'm living
My baby you'll be!

P.S.
You asked me if I thought Daddy would share his clothes with you because you are getting sooo big. You are too much. :-)

I love you AD Bug and Happy 5th Birthday,
Mommy

Ayden's 5th Birthday @ OPS

Happy Happy Birthday AD bug! We started your birthday off with such excitement. You were in a great mood this morning and ready to be KING of the day in Mrs. Huffstettlers class. Mommy and Daddy came to your school with pizza's, cupcakes and ice cream for you and your friends. We had so much fun! Mrs. Huffstettler and Mrs. Pooser had a banner hanging outside of your classroom that said Happy Birthday, Ayden is 5 today! Then on the door to the classroom were tons of pictures with you and your family and friends. At the top of the door it said AYDEN IS OUR KING. Your teachers really made sure that the day was all about you (even making a special crown for you to wear) and asked you to tell everybody some things about you. Your favorite color is Orange (this has to be because of your love for Clemson right now :-). You want to be a rock star when you grow up. You favorite toys are your trucks and when asked if you had a girlfriend you said her name was Carley. The teacher also asked your favorite food and restuarant. Your replies were "junk food" and "Ryans." Daddy and I cracked up because we barely ever go to Ryan's but all of your classmates started screaming how much they love Ryan's too. Mrs. Huffstettler couldn't believe you didn't say McDonald's! I think me and Daddy's favorite part of our visit was when you asked to sing the Tootie Ta song for us. I have the video posted and it is hilarious. Thank you for sharing it with us Mrs. Huffstettler and Mrs. Poosers class. I took a ton of pics of you and your friends and by spending just a short time with you at school, it is so easy to see how loved you are by not only Daddy, Ally Brynn and I, but everyone around you.

Campmeeting 08

Fall is one of my favorite times of the year. Raylrode Dayz, fall carnivals, pumpkins, the fair, cotton candy, rides, Campmeeting, cooler temps and Ayden's birthday.

Ayden and Ally Brynn: Daddy and I took you guys to the Indian Field Campmeeting to daddy's family tent. Ayden you were so curious about the tents, the hay on the ground and especially the outhouse (you had to go to the potty as soon as we arrived). We didn't spend the night but we did enjoy a delicious meal and a great time with family and friends. We took you guys to several different tents to visit and both of you were so good. Ayden, you LOVED playing with your cousin David Reeves and even asked if you could stay the night. We will definitely take you back to spend the night in the future. Ally Brynn you loved all of the kisses and hugs and chewing on the glow bracelets and necklaces a little girl gave you. Everyone could not get over all of your beautiful blonde curls.

The County Fair

We had such a great time at the county fair. Ally Brynn pointed at everything saying "OOK." It was pay one price so she and Ayden got to do some riding. Sunny and Richie joined us and we saw so many of our friends. Richie even took Ally Brynn down the Big Slide. I thought she would surely be scared but she wasn't. In fact, she barely had an expression on her face. There were plenty of kids to ride with and have a wonderful time. The rides were definitely Ayden's favorite. I will be taking him and some friends to the fair for his birthday so I will have more pics. We all enjoyed a tiger show with real live tigers; the kids watched in amazement. We ate great food and stayed up really late. What wonderful memories!

Ally Brynn's room

Many of you have been asking and here it is....Ally Brynn's new roommates. Carmen did such a great job and we all just LOVE it. Ally Brynn says "monk monk."

Raylrode Dayz 2008

Nana and I took Ayden and Ally Brynn to Raylrode Dayz this weekend. I have been going since I was a child and have LOVED taking the kids. We go to my great Aunt Do's house and sit in the street and watch the parade and then head downtown for food, gunfights and the Can Can girls. This year Ally Brynn tried to help Ayden pick up all of the gobs of candy out of the street during the parade.

Nana and the kids along with Jess, Rach, baby Shelby, Aunt Lydia, Kristy, Jodie and Jake all enjoyed the parade and all the candy.

Ayden was locked up in jail at Branch junction...he was amazed by the gunfighters.

Ayden and Ally Brynn got their faces painted. Ayden has converted to Clemson and was so proud to show off his Clemson paw....especially to his beautiful little friend from school Shields. Enjoy the pics....

More Soccer Fun

With each game, Ayden gets better and better on the soccer field. I also think that those on the sidelines have a huge influence on how much effort he puts into the game. On Thursday, Papa, Mammy Jackie, John David, Greg and Kevin all came out to watch his game. He was thrilled to have such a crowd and really worked hard on the field to prove his skills. Like I said before Ayden...you are such a little ham and love all of the attention!

Pig Tails

On Sunday, the kids went to MiMi's for the day while daddy and I went to Columbia. I decided to try pigtails in Ally Brynn's hair. These are her first true pig tails........Isn't she beautiful!