Southern Housewife

Grandaddy Visits!

2008-11-01T18:52:00.004-06:00

Grandaddy came to visit during October and it was so much fun! We all met at Ihop for breakfast and Grandaddy and the Hubby went to the Alabama game. Roll Tide!!!

Kensi is acting shy for the camera.

But she quickly forgets her shyness when the food is served!

Garrett holds his first granddaughter as proud mommy Brianna looks on.

The boys! Trent, Grandaddy, Camden, and The Hubby.

Aunt Jaymee chats with her Daddy.

Grandaddy and his little man.

Zoo Trip

2008-09-17T12:45:00.004-06:00

We took the kids to the zoo the other day, and we had soooo much fun! The twins are old enough now to know the names of many different animals and they really had a great time. My favorite thing was having a whole day with my kids and the Hubby; that really made the day perfect. Plus, it was nice to do something different; I think my kids are tired of going to Wal-Mart all the time. I go to Wal-Mart anywhere from four to ten times a week; seriously! What is up with that?

The Hubby holds Camden and Kensi as they watch the turtles.

Kensi is wearing her adorable pigtails and Camden points to the iguana.

Every trip to the zoo simply must include a train ride!

The napping crocodiles. Sounds like the name of a restaurant in Florida, doesn't it?

The sleeping Tiger. Sounds like the name of a movie...

Hey Kensi, check out the tiger down there! (Yes, we know our son is wearing a pink backpack. It is not indicative of anything except that he wanted to wear a backpack at that particular moment. Don't be hatin!)

The camels were really stinky! Camden loves to talk about the stinky camels.

Taking a break from the heat and resting indoors. It was really hot that day.

This was the kids favorite thing; pushing the strollers!

Fun with the new camera

2008-08-16T10:24:00.006-06:00

The other day I pulled out my new camera, freshly inspired to take amazing pictures of my kids. But I soon realized that I know absolutely nothing whatsoever about my camera or how to actually take pictures that look remotely like something a professional would do. So, I started at the beginning. I read the owners manual! Have you ever read the owners manual of anything you own? Me neither; at least until this camera. And after reading (and skipping) through the manual, it only further convinced my of how little I know about photography. Although I did finally learn what aperture is. (Thank you Shannon!)

Well, my camera is pretty high tech, so I did the best I could. Check it out:

Camden loves our cat, Darcy, and likes to rub heads with him.

Kensi plays with a toy while in the tub.

This one's a little blurry, I know. I am not a professional so don't be hatin'. But I still like this and almost think it has a bit of an artsy look.

Here is the close-up setting on Camden.

Close-up of Kensington. No botox here, baby!

Camden is a natural at this stuff.

Yes, she is always this happy.

Our big boy Camden. Did I tell you he pee-peed in the potty for the first time today? Milestone!! ...They grow up so fast...*sniff*

Pictures of the kids

2008-07-28T12:23:00.004-06:00

The kids are talking so much now. They can say so many different things; things you had no idea they knew. Camden talks about space and dinosaurs, and Kensi loves to make animal sounds. They are so much fun!!

They are best friends.

Here the twins play at church.

I think Camden's washing the dishes.

Camden climbs over the sofa as Kensi stacks the plates.

Camden and Roman pose...

Roman! You're soooo funny!!!!

Roman, Camden and Kensi waiting for snack-time.

The kids enjoy goldfish and juice.

Happy Birthday Jaymee!

Here Jaymez poses with her husband Garrett. We love you both!

Family Day

2008-07-19T11:47:00.005-06:00

There is nothing quite like spending quality time with your family. And on Friday, that is exactly what we did. The Hubby took a vacation day and planned a whole day of fun for me and the kids. We woke up and went to the pool, where we spent most of the morning. We played in the water and had some snacks, then we came back to the house so the kids could nap. When they woke up, we jumped in the car and went to the kids first ever, movie -- in an actual movie theater. How did they do? They did great! Camden was a little hesitant at first, because he didn't know what to expect. But he acclimated very quickly and loved it! We got Kensi and Camden the cute little kiddie popcorn trays and they were so cute!

We started our day at the pool.

Kensi loves her inflatable ring!

Camden enjoys playing with the buckets.

The kids enjoyed their very first movie in a theater! We saw Space Chimps.

They really liked the popcorn trays. Camden ate all of his popcorn and some of Kensi's, too.

When the movie was over, Camden said he wanted to see it again!

Kensi carried her popcorn tray out of the theater with her.

all the way into the lobby...

and posed for some pictures with her tray...here she is with Camden and the Hubby.

And here is me, Camden, Kensi, and the popcorn tray.

Our New York Trip!

2008-07-11T22:24:00.018-06:00

The Hubby and I have just returned from a most amazing trip to the Big Apple over the July 4th weekend. It was a trip that was given to me for my 30th birthday earlier this year. We had so much fun, let me tell you! So for today's post, I am going to tell you all about it. If you are planning to go to New York anytime soon, maybe this can help you out. (Btw, This is my longest post EVER. Go get a snack and get comfortable. This might take a while. But I promise it won't hurt!)

We stayed at the Michelangelo Hotel, on 51st & 7th (basically 51st & Broadway.) We were just steps from Times Square, which as you know is tourist central. Plus it is the theater district so there is lots to do and lots to eat. This hotel was wonderful and I highly recommend it!

Our room; And our red suitcase!

When we arrived, we got upgraded to a suite. All because the Hubby asked. It's amazing the things people will do for you if you just ask!

We were on the fourth floor. Here is the view from our room.

This is the entranceway into the lobby of the hotel. Gorgeous!

The Lobby of the Michelangelo Hotel.

Did you know that the Hubby's mother is one of twelve children? Yes, twelve! Anyway, one of her brothers owns a restaurant in Greenwich Village, called Tavern on Jane. So we went to Uncle Mike's restaurant and ate wonderful food and spent time with family we never get to see. The hubby and I have been married almost 7 years and this was my first time to meet this Uncle! What a kind man he is, and his wife Mary Ann is the sweetest thing ever. We loved getting to see them and they really went out of their way to welcome us and make our trip the best it could be.

I did not know the Hubby was taking this picture. (I would have smiled, at least!) But you can see the sign for the restaurant. The food here is FABULOUS!!!

The Hubby posed in a park close to the restaurant. He's so handsome I had to put this picture in here somewhere.

What a handsome gene pool! The Hubby and Uncle Mike.

The Hubby, me, Aunt Mary Ann, (who also loves yoga!) and Uncle Mike.

Uncle Mike got us tickets to the Yankees - Red Sox game on July 4th. It was a blast! I learned that Yankees fans are very serious about their baseball. (And what is this A-Rod, Madonna stuff?) After the game we had dinner at Tavern on the Green. It was very touristy to me; I didn't particularly care for the food, either. It seemed really pricey for the small portions. But maybe that is just the southerner in me. The restaurant was pretty so we just enjoyed the experience.

We had great seats. This was so cool; Yankees vs. Red Sox? Oh yeah!

Sadly the Yankees lost this game. But they won the next one!

Here we are! Front row in the first tier!

Tavern on the Green. It was beautiful.
Outside on the patio.

They had the bushes trimmed to look like animals.

We saw a Broadway show, called "Wicked." But don't let the name fool you. It was a fabulous musical about the pre-story to the Wizard of Oz. We were speechless; It was so amazing and moving. But at the same time it was very funny and witty. We both agreed that it was one of the BEST things we did on our whole trip. If you ever get a chance to see this show, do it!

The music was so amazing, I can't even tell you. I am still singing "Defying Gravity!"

We got up early one day and took the subway all the way down to the Statue of Liberty and Battery Park. Then we saw Wall Street, the NYSE, Ground Zero, shopped at Century 21 and H&M, then went to Chinatown, and stopped for a cannoli break in Little Italy. We did so much that day, our feet were really sore. So we went back to our hotel and napped, then went to dinner at Serendipity. (Remember the movie, Serendipity? It was filmed there.) The food here was delicious! And the dessert was amazing. I am still thinking about how huge the portion was and how we ate every last drop of it. (Don't tell Dr. Fritz!) We then visited a cool candy store, called Dylan's Candy Bar. It is owned by the daughter of Ralph Lauren, and it was the neatest candy store I have ever been in. After dinner we took a surprisingly fun carriage ride in Central Park for $34. I think that was the cheapest thing we did in the city besides the hot dog stands. (which I wouldn't eat. Please tell Dr. Fritz!)

You know what this is! The visibility wasn't so great this day.

The Hubby is playing around. He is the most fun person to be with. He just has a good time no matter where he is or what he's doing.

New York Stock Exchange. This is where it happens!
The Bull. This was surprisingly crowded!
Ground Zero. This was a very somber place to visit.
Ground Zero from across the street in the World Financial Center.

Chinatown. We experienced some very interesting smells in Chinatown.
Little Italy. This place was awesome!
We stopped here because they had signs that said "Best Cannoli on Mulberry Street."

Look how fun it is in Little Italy! :-)

Dinner at Serendipity.

It was really crowded. We had to wait and hour and a half. But is was sooo yummy!

The decor of this restaurant was very eclectic...As you will notice in the picture behind us...hmmm. Interesting.

Carriage Ride. We really enjoyed this.

It was a very neat way to see Central Park.

They smelled bad to me, but the Hubby said the hotdogs were pretty good.

Another day we visited Rockefeller Center and the set of The Today Show, and actually got on TV for a few seconds. Giada De Laurentis was on the show that day, and being a Food Network fan, I found that to be really cool. We took a tour of NBC studios and saw where they film Saturday Night Live, the Late Show with Conan O'Brian, The evening news with Brian Williams, and the MSNBC studios. There was a street fair in the city, and they had blocked off 6th Avenue for about 10 blocks. There were literally hundreds of people on the street that day. We went to an off-Broadway show that night called "A Perfect Crime." It was...well...interesting. I don't think I would recommend it, but it was a unique experience nonetheless.

The Hubby poses in front of Rockefeller Center.

Here they are filming The Today Show.

Here is the street fair. There were hundreds, probably thousands of people out there.

Purses and sunglasses and socks and scarves...

We also tried to get on some talk shows. I really wanted to see Live with Regis and Kelly, but they weren't filming that day. So we walked down a few blocks to The View and tried unsuccessfully to get in the audience. But we met this really neat couple in line behind us from Lousiana, Gabe and Amy. So after they turned everyone away, we decided to go to the American Museum of Natural History. That was extremely interesting, but again, our feet hurt so bad that we had to go rest. We had dinner that night at Uncle Mike's and Aunt Mary Ann's house. It was a 'true' New York experience. We rode with them over to Jersey to their house, and Marianne's Italian family came over. They were so funny and so entertaining; We felt like we were in a movie. It was amazing fun and definitely something we will never forget.

The Museum of Natural History.

This feller's kinda big.

The Hubby is running from this one.

What New York trip would be complete without riding the subway?

The Hubby waiting for his ride.

Uncle Mike and Aunt Mary Ann. What a great couple!

Uncle Mike cooked an amazing dinner for us.

We had the most fun hanging out in Jersey - We laughed so much!

Our last day in the city we went to Rockefeller again, and up to the roof to the viewing area where the Hubby got a lot of great pictures. (and there was no line. The Empire State Building had a three hour wait.) Then we had lunch at Uncle Mike's restaurant one last time. On our way back to the hotel we saw the Naked Cowboy. Um... gross. I realized that I really don't want to see anyone in their underwear. Especially really tight underwear. And how weird is this? We are walking down the street and hear someone yelling the Hubby's name. We turn around and it is Gabe and Amy, the couple we met the day before at The View! What are the odds that in a city of over 8 million people that something like that happens?? So strange and so cool!

On top of Rockefeller Center. The Empire State Building is behind us.

Here is a great perspective of Central Park.

Why?????????!!!

(By the way, this man CAN NOT sing!!!)

Overall, we saw and did everything we went to New York to do. I am still kicking myself for not buying the bright pink Dolce and Gabbana knock-off from the street fair, but I will make it. I never buy the fakes, but it was only $20 and would have been a fun souvenir and a great piece to spice up the wardrobe. Oh well, I will just have to get the Hubby to spring for a real one...:-)

Well, here are a few more random pics that round out our trip to NYC:

Times Square

Brandon and Matt Lauer. You didn't know? They're old friends!

I think this guy wants money just because he's dressed like the Statue of Liberty...

A picture of the city from the ferry on our way back from Jersey.

Well, that sums it all up!

We had a wonderful time in NYC and will definitely go back. Thank you to everyone who made our trip possible!! And now I am finally done with this post. Congratulations! You made it to the end!

Welcome Back!!

2008-06-04T14:22:00.017-06:00

New Pictures!

Yes everyone, there are now new pictures on this long neglected and sadly forgotten blog. I never claimed to be the best at doing this but at least I try. Well, sort of. I think about it. I think about trying to update this blog. And darn it, doesn't that count for something? Well here's the skinny of it; I got a new camera. A smokin' hot, super duty professional thing (compliments of the wonderful, hard working hubby) so I am eager to share my newfound photographical passions with the ever-inquisitive blogosphere. Just so you know: this blog is a positive blog. I don't use this as platform to hurt people. That is never in good taste. The lives of others are never used as subject matter and frivolous fodder for people to devour. Anyone who's picture is posted or name mentioned on this blog has given permission. That is just how I do it, folks. (Except for Brad and Angelina. I write countless letters, call and leave messages, email daily; And they don't respond. I can't figure that one out.)

So back to the camera. Its a brand-new Canon EOS 40D. Here is a picture of it:

Isn't it attractive? No it isn't pink; No it doesn't have rhinestones or unicorns surrounding the lens. But I am very happy with it nonetheless. But wait until you see some of the pics I took with it. Yep, all by myself. Oh, did I tell you I am going to take some classes to actually learn how to use this monstrosity? That's the plan, anyway. Okay, let's see some beach pictures. We just spent over two weeks at the beach. One week in Florida, and another at Myrtle Beach, SC.

I had just under one thousand pictures to choose from. So bear with me. There are LOTS of pictures:

Here is the view from our room.

I took this picture from our balcony. The Hubby was throwing the football with my brother and stopped to wave.

The Hubby and my brother in the pool; Again with the football. This picture was also taken from our balcony. We were on the sixth floor.

The view of the beach from our balcony. I seem to have spent a lot of time on that balcony.

Here are the Hubby and I. Yes, we are on the balcony! Funny story, here; We are on our way to dinner. A dinner where I unknowingly sat in barbeque sauce and had it all over my white shorts. White shorts of which my mother was kind enough to pre-treat and throw in the washing machine; A washing machine that subsequently overflowed and poured out all over the condo floor, down the hall and into the room where the twins were sleeping. We had to have a service come out and pull up the carpet, plug in machines to drain water and fans to dry everything. Did I say this was a funny story?

What a sweet smile! He is such a precious little boy!

If you own an apple company, call me. You need to use this picture to advertise.

The apple of my eye!

Okay, I tried to get a little artsy here. I have no idea what I am doing. But this looks good, doesn't it? I love it!

This little girl loves the water, as you will see in later pictures. She loves the pool, the ocean, and the bathtub. She would probably even play in the toilet! Ewwww! (But we don't let her of course!)

But Daddy can I please some candy? Please????

Camden's hanging out poolside.

The Hubby has no idea I just took this picture. But he is so stinkin HANDSOME I can't help myself! I love you Hubby!

Uncle David is showing the twins how to fly a kite. You can't actually see the kite, though. It almost looks like he's just standing there. You're just gonna have to take my word for it.

Kensi kicks and plays in the ocean with her Daddy.

She loves it! She is our adventurer. Our little baby surfer chick!

Here Paw Paw walks Camden to the water. Camden did not like the ocean like Kensi did. In fact, he refused to let it touch his skin. When the water got close he ran the other way. His reaction was much like his Uncle David's to tomatoes.

As long as Daddy holds him, he is doing all right!

Kensi does not want to miss out on any of the action. Paw Paw shows her the ropes of good old fashioned sea bathing.

The twins play after dinner. Yes, Paw Paw spent the day in the sun!

Camden & Kensi chillin in their matching frog outfits.

Back view. Aren't they getting so big?

We went to a mini-amusment park for kids. The first ride was airplanes and Kensi loved it.

Camden rode along and didn't seem to mind it all too much...

Until we got to the train...

And again on the swings...So we just ended it there.

The second part of our vacation was with the Hubby's family. Here Camden and Grandaddy try to "find a bee."

The Hubby and Grandaddy take the twins down to the pond to see the geese. This pond is just a few feet outside the backdoor of Grandaddy's condo.

Grandaddy, Jaymee and the Hubby stop for a quick pic.

We took a quick trip to the ocean when we first arrived. Look at Camden! Is he actually in the water? Enjoying himself?

Camden and Kensi race through the water.

Okay, they are definitely enjoying this!

Camden is ready to play in his swimsuit and surf shirt. Oh, and his 'Cars' shoes.

Trent and Camden have their sticks and try to "find a bee."

Haley and Kensi join in the fun as well. Camden always wanted to go outside and watch little bugs. Everything is called a "bee." He would wake up in the mornings and the first thing he would say is, "find a bee!"

Grandaddy pulls up in his golf cart. In Myrtle Beach, you have to have a golf cart. Businesses actually have signs labeled on parking places that say "golf cart parking only!" Plus it is sooo much fun!

Kensi, Haley, Camden and Trent sit by the water's edge and contemplate the economy and housing prices.

Camden reflects on his time at the beach and decides he thinks he likes it after-all.

Easter 2008

2008-03-26T08:32:00.006-06:00

Well Easter has come and gone and what a day it was! Everyone was dressed and pressed and ready for church. This year we did a pink/turquoise theme and I love it! I hope you enjoy the pictures!

Family shot after church

Here Kensi contemplates the playground under this window. No honey; not in that dress.

Camden is just happy to be here.

The Hubby stops for a quick shot with the twins.

We stopped by Mimi and Paw Paw's for a time after church.

Mimi shows Camden & Kensi how to water the flowers.

But the Hubby wants to play with the kids new bubble maker.

They love to water the flowers!

Kensi sports her purple shades.

But Camden just wants to play basketball.

The Twins Are Two!

2008-02-28T15:31:00.007-06:00

Okay, so my kids are two. I am the mom of two year old twins! What happened? How did we get here? The saying is true; time really does fly! I love where we are with the kids, though. Two is the best age so far - by a long shot. I enjoyed the baby stuff, but the older they get the better it is. They now go to a Mom's Day Out program three days a week for a few hours. They love it! They get to interact and play with other kids and do all kinds of messy crafts that I don't have to clean up. Who wouldn't like that? Now Kensi did come home this week with blue paint in her hair, around her eyes, and in her nose. Yeah it's gross; but I just put them in the tub and we're good as new! Okay, enough rambling. Here are some highlights of the Elmo birthday party!

Here is the yummy cake. Yes; Edgars.

Camden points to all the characters from his favorite show.

They love Elmo the best!

Family photo op with the Sesame street gang.

Here the hubby poses with his sweet Kensington.

Close-up of Elmo and Dorothy.

We improvised on the cake. See the crayons on the sides? Elmo loves his goldfish...his crayons, too!

Nana shows Camden something on the camera.

Mimi gives the kids some grapes and strawberries.

This picture is so funny to me! The look on Grandaddy's face is: Umm, this isn't really working out so well for Kensi!" We will eventually get a picture of them with the kids. One day!

the kids certainly didn't waste time opening their presents!

The kids got lots of clothes and books and fun stuff. (Please ignore the intruding TV in these pictures that the Hubby is so enamored with.)

Garrett and Poppy and Nana chat over pizza and cake.

Grandma, the Hubby & Emily chillin in the kitchen.

the Hubby, Jaymee and Grandaddy smile for a quick pic.

Kensi loves this little noisemaker. Hours of entertainment!

Emily and Uncle David enjoy watching the kids play with their toys.

It's official! The twins are two!!

My musical kids

2008-02-15T13:07:00.004-06:00

My children keep proving to me on a daily basis, just how musical they are. We play music in the house and in the car, we sing, clap and dance; and even play the piano around the kids. There is always something musical going on; so obviously, the kids have picked up on it. Check out this adorable little video I got the other day during lunch:

This Monday, the 25th is the kids birthday! They will be two!! Hooray!

PS - Random thought of the day...

Do any of you readers out there watch the show LOST? (If you don't, you are not going to understand this next paragraph. Sorry about that!) The hubby and I have been avid watchers of the show for about 3 seasons now. We just can't miss an episode. And we still cannot figure out WHAT IS GOING ON! Please excuse my very obvious play on words here, but why do we actually feel 'lost' watching this show? (which is nothing new; most LOST watchers are chronically question-ridden. There are actually websites devoted to LOST theories.) Well back to my point; the hubby came up with a great possibility today; Maybe there is a portal somewhere on the island that Ben is using to time-travel! Doesn't that make sense? How did Jack and Locke's fathers both mysteriously show up on the island? What about that picture of Ben in an office wearing a suit? He is tele-porting himself!! But there are still so many questions. Who is Jacob? What is the smoke monster? How do the Polar Bear and the Dharma initiative fit into this story? Does anybody really know what time it is? Does anybody really care?

Will we ever have any answers to these questions?

If you don't watch LOST and want to give it a try, it has been done. Byron and Susan netflixed the previous seasons and they are caught up and loving it! It it a great show and worth the effort!

Fun with the kids

2008-01-24T10:25:00.000-06:00

Last night at church I was volunteering in the nursery again, so I took my camera and got some great pictures of the kids playing. Two of their best buddies weren't there, so they had a couple big friends come by to play for a little while. Here we go!

I said, "Kensi! Smile for the camera!" and this is what she did.
She played hide and seek with me. In her little head this is a GREAT hiding place!
Camden just wants some juice.
Where did she get this idea? I guess her Daddy must talk on the phone and eat at the same time because I know absolutely nothing of it! Now where's that Little Debbie??
Brooke stops in to play on the slide with the twins and provide some much needed entertainment.

This is so much fun for Kensi!

They stop on the slide to pose for a picture.

Blake shows how cool he looks in his cowboy boots.

Camden laughs as Brooke slides down backwards!

Kensi and Blake play cars together.

Then Paw Paw stops by the nursery to give the twins hugs and kisses.
Camden and Kensi are learning the art of using a spoon and actually getting the spoon to their mouths. And trust me, we have made a LOT of progress here!
Kensi tried drinking her pudding, but obviously it didn't work. So she wipes her hands off on a paper towel.

I have added two quick videos to round out our blog post for the day. I really like adding videos, because they are fun. But the platform I use has gotten extremely slow; Ridiculously slow. Plus, my iMac is still in the shop for repairs. (I tried to download a CD to my iTunes and the disc got stuck.) I am going to explore my options and perhaps find a new system to make this blog run faster. So, when my computer is back, there are lots of wonderful things to come. Until then, here are two videos to keep you going!

This last video is of Brooke & Blake joining us in the nursery for a couple minutes of playtime. The kids LOVED IT!! They had so much fun!

Snow Day!

2008-01-22T10:02:00.000-06:00

For those of you who have never lived in the south, down in these parts of Alabama a snow day means something entirely different from those in other parts of the country. If there is even a possibility of snow, schools and businesses will close; and everyone rushes to the grocery store and buys all the bread and milk off the shelves. In actuality we only got about half an inch of snow, but it felt like a blizzard. (this was our first "snow" since 2000). So we decided to take advantage of it. We loaded on our winter clothes and headed outdoors to play in the new white fluff all over the grass. Lots of pictures!

The hubby gives Camden his first feel of snow.

Is that the sweetest little boy ever?

Can you say "snow princess?"

Camden waves to the camera.

Taking a walk through the snow...

Oh my goodness! The sweetest little lips and pink nose!

cruising down the sidewalk checking out the snow.

Are you having fun Kensi? Yeah, this is pretty neat!

The snow was coming down pretty heavy; You can see some points of accumulation in the Hubby's hair.

They ran all the way to the fence in the backyard. Hey little babies! Come back!

The Hagin's came over to play with us in the snow. Haley gives Kensi a big hug.

Trent takes care of Camden and shows him how to make snowballs.

Camden's ready to catch the snowball Trent is about to throw.

Haley tickles Kensi and she loves it!

Kensington & Camden making a snowman.

I hope you enjoyed the pictures!

*Jane Austen fans take note!!!!!*

Sunday nights on PBS, Masterpiece theater is doing the Complete Jane Austen series from January through March. You simply cannot miss this! It is quite diverting, really, and every Austen fan must employ the use of their Tivo; otherwise it would be too shocking and you could not be known to any good society. They have already aired brand new versions (or at least never before seen in the US) of Persuasion and Northanger Abbey. There will also be brand new adaptations of Mansfield Park and Sense & Sensibility; Then a fabulous version of Emma, and then the most wonderful movie of all time: the 1995 Pride and Prejudice.

You simply must make every effort to see these! Otherwise, I shall be quite put out!

New Pictures of the kids

2008-01-17T13:53:00.000-06:00

Well, I got a new iMac for Christmas and it is fabulous. Quite a new adjustment, going from a PC to a Mac, but the hubby and I are up for new challenges, and we are learning our way quite nicely. I made a slide show that I have not been able to upload to this blog for some reason, so I will keep working on that. But until then, let's look at some new pictures. And since my Mother-in-Law is really wanting to see baby pics, lets see what we can come up with:

Who does this look like?

Now these kids love some orange juice!

Camden doesn't want to wait for his turn. He wants it NOW!

Ah! Thanks for the turn, Daddy!

Uncle David got the kids the coolest bath toys! They glow!

Camden LOVES bath time. He gets upset when he has to get out.

Kensi is perplexed by this strange nose aspirator apparatus.

Big and buff Camden tries to help me load the dishwasher.

I do hope I can get this whole software stuff figured out and get that slide show uploaded. It is really pretty good. Technology is amazing. You can find out a lot using simple technology. I have a specialized stat tracker on my blog so that I can see who is visiting my website, where they are, how many times they visit, and what comments they leave. It truly is amazing. Nothing is a secret nowadays, right? So to all of my kind, loyal readers: Thank you for visiting this blog and sharing this small part of my life with me!

Happy Birthday Tara!!!

2008-01-10T21:13:00.000-06:00

Happy BIG Birthday to our dear friend Tara! We celebrated her landmark birthday in style...a pajama party. Oh yeah. You're never too old to outgrow pajama parties. Plus, you know you're in good company when you can chill with the girls in your PJ's, right? Well, I know you are all wondering, how old IS Tara? Good question. She is OLD!! But I don't want to embarrass anyone so I will not reveal her age. I will just say that she is older than me.

But enough about me! We were thrilled, and you don't know how thrilled we really were, to get to spend some time with Tara. She is such an amazing, beautiful, smart, special person. She is one of those people who is beautiful on the outside and on the inside; and if pride isn't an issue for you...you can admit that deep down part of you wants to be like her. (Plus, she has great cheekbones and the cutest haircut.) So we laughed and talked and told lots of stories about our kids. I am still laughing about some of the things our kids say and do. So, lets check out some of the pictures from the night:

Tara blows out the 3 candles on her "cake." I am still not telling how old she is. (although the 3 candles could be a hint. That is, if I were hinting. And I'm not.)

Yeah Baby! This is birthday cake Simeons Protocol Style! Yeahhhh--eeewwwww.

Erica says, "you really expect me to eat this? What exactly is it?"

Tara, Erica, & Leigh chat with Shannon & Kim while I have my face behind the lens.

Tara finishes opening her presents and cards and we prepare to have tea!
Oh my goodness. We trashed Kim's perfectly clean kitchen! Look at this mess! And there were no kids around to blame for this one.

And our last video for this post is a re-enactment of Tara's Birthday song. (No animals were injured during the making of this film.) Special thanks to the cameo appearance from Conner, and thanks to Shannon for the fancy camerawork, too.

We had a wonderful time with Tara. We hope there are many more times like this ahead! We love you and your sweet husband and kids, VERY VERY MUCH!!!!

Happy Birthday Kim!!

2007-12-19T15:56:00.000-06:00

I enjoyed a night of fun with the girls earlier this week as we got together to celebrate Kim's birthday. Oh, how much fun we had! I just can't even tell you. There is just something therapeutic about being with people who you can trust. People who are on the same page as you; people who you can be yourself around. And when you leave, you leave better. Not "high maintenance" friendships. Just steady, normal, consistent people. Who encourage each other and help each other. And these girls are just that. They are a group of truly awesome women, all successful in their own right. Isn't it great to get to have some free time away from the house and the kids just to laugh? (shout out to the husbands here!) Well I assure you there was plenty of laughing going on. Here are a few of our pictures:

Kim with her birthday cheesecake. Doesn't she look great for 42?
Shannon & Kim pose for a picture.
Me and Erica smiling for the camera.I'm sorry. I don't know how this picture made it on the blog! Oops! This is me, Kim, Shannon and the neighbor boy on his golf cart acting silly. Erica is not in this picture but that is probably a good thing; Erica and I have a history of knocking off the roofs of golf carts. (but that's a whole other story altogether!)

Okay, I was kidding earlier when I said Kim was 42. She's really just 40. Okay, kidding again. She is still a youngin' in her early 30's. I added this last video reluctantly because you can't see anything. Literally, the screen is almost black. (And yes, this is a first for Southern Housewife. I typically don't add videos unless you can see something. Isn't that the point of a video?) However, I added it anyway because you can hear the one thing Kim says in this video and its pretty funny to me. Check it out:

I hope you enjoyed the latest installment of Southern Housewife!

Time in the Nursery

2007-12-12T11:16:00.000-06:00

Our kids love the nursery at church. It's a time for them to play with other kids their age, and it's a big room full of new toys. Doesn't that sound great to you? Well, we drop our kids off and pick them up, but how many of us really know what happens in the nursery? Well, my mother and I are now working in the one year old class with the twins once a month, so I got some video footage that you are going to love. Yes, you are going to love it. They are all so stinkin cute you may not be able to stand it. Okay, here goes:

This first video is of Kensi & Camden playing ring around the rosie. Their friend Roman comes over and joins in and Camden and Roman end up in a pile on the floor and Kensi just laughs at them:

Our next clip is from snack time. Kensi, Camden, & Roman are at one table, and Tanner and Hailey are at the other. Wow, these kids love their goldfish!

So, that's what it's like in the nursery with the kids. They all have such a good time. How funny will it be to look back at these videos when they are 18 years old? I have lots of pictures for you to see as well. Take a look:

Kensington, Roman, and Camden discuss politics over their goldfish and apple juice.
Roman says, "You're absolutely right Kensi. We must have immigration policy reform!"
Tanner and Hailey enjoy snack time.
Kensi & Roman hanging out.

Group shot. This is what happens in the one year old class.

Camden & Kensi practice ring around the rosie some more, while Hailey chews on Romans boot.
Here are the kids playing together.

Here's the boyz from the south side rockin' it old school in the nursery.

Hello everyone!

2007-12-06T15:05:00.000-06:00

Does anyone still check this thing? I think a couple people do because I keep getting asked! Thank you for reading! So its been almost a month since my last post. We've been kind of busy. But that only means there are lots of stories and pictures and videos stored up and waiting to be posted for your daily amusement. I have lots to choose from so let's jump right in. Here are some videos from the past couple weeks:

This cute little clip is of Camden, The Hubby, and Paw Paw chillin' on the sofa watching the Iron bowl. The Hubby is teaching Camden how to cheer for his team:

I was Christmas shopping with my Mom and the twins one day, and we decided to meet up with my Dad and brother for lunch. Here we are having burgers and fries and lots of laughs:

More to come! Keep checking...

They grow up so fast

2007-11-08T13:06:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I took the kids out to get lunch with our friend Leigh Ann. The kids love to get out of the house and so do I. We ate at this great little Greek place I have been anxious to try called The Pita Hut. (cute, huh?) My mother-in-law had told me that she tried it before and that I would probably like it. It was great. (For those of you who live in B'ham, you've got to try it. It's on 280 behind Sneaky Pete's and next to Wal-mart.) Anyway, the twins had such a great time as you will see in the below videos and pictures. Their personalities develop more and more every day. I am amazed at the things that entertain them. They are so funny to watch!

And a special note here: A grateful thank you to Leigh Ann for taking the below videos and pictures of the kids. She really has a great eye for photography.

Our first video installment of the day is me, trying to feed Camden some vanilla pudding quite unsuccessfully:

Did you notice how the pudding is hanging above his eye? In this next clip I am trying to clean it off his face. He thinks this is really funny now.

This next video is one of my favorites. It shows Camden's newly found personality so well. He is laughing at a straw. What is so funny about a straw? Nothing unless you are 1 and half, I guess.

And this last video is of our Kensi-bear playing with her cup and talking:

And now, for some pictures!

Leigh Ann poses with an adorable look from Camden.

Kensi really liked the Greek food. I mean REALLY liked it!

close up of Camden drinking his lemonade.

Camden poses for a quick shot as Kensi looks on.

And this was lunch; Playing with Styrofoam cups the whole time.

Look at our beautiful little girl! Even with food on her face she is such a sweetie pie!

Broken Sunglasses

2007-11-06T12:55:00.000-06:00

Okay, I have this pair of sunglasses that I love. I got them last year while we were in Seattle and they have been a prized possession for me ever since then. They are the trendy, Jennifer Lopez type of large sunglasses with gold detailing on the sides. They're functional, beautiful and exciting. Ever since I purchased these sunglasses from Nordstrom I have been more popular, made more friends and had a better life. Okay that's not true but darn it I loved those sunglasses!!!

Well, my daughter broke them today. *tear.* Here are a couple pictures of the damage:

Yep. She snapped the left earpiece clean off. Metal and all.

Poor little sunglasses. Can't you hear the funeral march right now?

Here is a picture taken of me this past weekend at the Auburn vs Tennessee Tech football game wearing my (now unusable) favorite sunglasses ever:

The hubby is taking this picture. That's why his arm looks weird and my head looks big.

We stop for a quick photo on the Auburn campus.

Here are Dennis and Lindsay. They took us to the game and showed us around being that they are both Auburn Alumni. I know you can't tell, but Lindsay is two months pregnant! Congratulations to them both!

Here the Auburn band stands in position to welcome the team to the field. Lindsay used to play the trumpet in the Auburn band.

Here is our view of the game.

Did I tell you that the Hubby is a graduate of Tennessee Tech? He is very proud of his school, regardless of the score of the game and the size of their athletic program. Tech is a very small school but they are one of the best when it comes to Engineering. The hubby's degree is in Mechanical Engineering and he is very good at his job. He's just good at everything he does, really. Except maybe ballet. I haven't ever actually seen him do ballet, but I imagine he and Mikhail Baryshnikov wouldn't compete in the same division if he did.

The yellow school bus

2007-10-24T20:51:00.000-06:00

We have this cute little yellow school bus toy that the kids got from their Nana for their first birthday. It teaches the kids letters and words, but also plays the ABC song. The kids love the ABC song. They dance and act silly and sometimes try to sing along and it's really funny. So here are two videos of the kids dancing to the school bus ABC song. First is Kensi, second is Camden:

Movie review soon to follow...the movie I watched and will be reviewing is: Giant!

Welcome Back!

2007-10-23T11:47:00.000-06:00

Yes I know. It's been awhile. I do this every now and then. Go a week or two or three; and no posts. Life gets busy sometimes, you know? I have been busy working with NASA to try to get their latest satellite launched and the CEO of Apple keeps calling me wanting me to help him with the newest software release. A girl can only do so much! I had to make time to be with family, first and foremost; and of course catch The Phantom of the Opera downtown. It was amazing. Simply divine. Third row seats! I sit there the whole time imagining myself in the role of Christine Daae; I picture myself singing "All I ask of you" or "The point of no return." I was a music major in college after all. Maybe it could be me up there? Then I sit back and think about what their lives must really be like. Traveling all the time, living out of a suitcase. How often do they get to see their families? They perform for a new audience every night; but like the saying goes, you can't take an audience home with you. Then I look to my left and see the hubby mouthing the words to "Masquerade" and realize that I have what so many people dream of. A gorgeous, wonderful husband (who endures Broadway performances and every Jane Austen movie ever made for me). Two amazing and sweet children, the love of so much family; I am filled with exhilaration and contentment as I realize how happy I truly am with my life. The point of this is to remind myself and you, to take inventory of your life where you are right now, and be thankful for what you have. It's a part of life to have a curve ball thrown at you now and then. Everyone in life does, to varying degrees. But we can't live in the past and imagine all the things that could have been. It's a sad place to be stuck in the "what ifs." We have to move past the wondering of "If only this or that could have happened." Let's live life in the here and now. What about today? Let's make everyday the greatest it can possibly be.

Okay that's all of my when life hands you lemons make lemonade speech. But it's good to remind yourself of it now and then, right? Okay now for some video and pictures!! Yea!

This video is basically just thirty seconds of the kids riding their zebras. They love these things!

Our nephew Trent watches out for Kensi as she climbs in the jungle gym at McDonald's.

Camden has the Frisbee and Kensi wants it. She will probably take it from him.

Or just grab him by the back of the neck and shake him until he drops it...

She gets so thirsty after wrangling that Frisbee from Camden!

Movie Update: I have received my first movie from Netflix that was a reader recommendation. I will not release the title yet, but I have watched some of it and so far and it is really good. Keep checking back and I will tell you all about it.

Movie Discussions

2007-10-15T20:18:00.000-06:00

I have a subscription to Netflix and have been a member for almost a year now. I love the whole concept. They mail movies to you; you watch them when you want; no late fees, no timetable. Mail it back when you're done. The next movie you have picked out and listed in your 'queue' will be mailed out to you. How easy is that? It's a great way to see lots of different movies. I really enjoy a good movie and I like to keep up with the latest cinema. Everyone has a list of their top five, or even top ten all-time favorite movies. Or maybe you have a special movie that is a "must-see" that people don't really know about. You know, one of those sleeper movies that is fabulous but didn't get a lot of publicity so people don't know how great it is?

Well, let me put this proposal out there to you: Since I have a subscription to Netflix, (and my queue is full of movies made before 1957), why don't you recommend your favorite movie to me? Or your favorite 3 or 5? I will take all suggestions and pick a few; Netflick them, and review it. Sound like fun? It does to me! In the comments section below this post, give me some titles. What are your favorite flicks? Let's discuss them! Now, let me just set up a few parameters to this experiment. First, no horror. It's just not gonna happen. I don't watch movies with bad violence and language and disturbing content. Also, nothing in the Brokeback Mountain genre, okay? Other than that, its all free game. I love classic film, musicals, deeply moving love stories. But I can be persuaded to watch Earnest goes to Camp for the betterment of humankind. So take a few minutes, peruse your DVD collection, and let's grab the popcorn and Junior Mints.

I will list a few of my favorite movies:

1. Jane Austen movies: Pride & Prejudice, Persuasion, Sense & Sensibility, etc. etc. Anything in this genre is tops on my list. I just had to go ahead and get that out there.

2. Casino Royale: Yes, I like some action now and then. And fast cars. Check out Bullitt. (that's for my Dad.)

3. Bridge on the River Kwai: Okay, not really. I put this here for the male readers over fifty. But I have actually seen it. And William Holden is superb.

4. The Bridges of Madison County: If you need a good cry this is your movie, giirrrlll. Everyone knows Meryl Streep is the new Bette Davis. Mmmhhhmmm.

5. JAWS: Anything with sharks, and I am watching. And some shark movies are REALLY corny. Well, just look at this picture and you can visibly see the hinge holding the sharks mouth together:

All that being said, I am anxious to see what kind of response I get. And if the only response I get is The Usual Suspects then I will thank my brother for being a faithful reader. And if I see Groundhog Day then the Hubby is in BIG TROUBLE!!!! Why do you love that movie so much?

A trip to the corn maze

2007-10-15T08:53:00.000-06:00

This past weekend we went to this great little corn maze several miles past our house. We went with a group of people from our church and had such a great time. The corn maze itself was really cool. This was the first one I had ever seen and didn't know too much about it. It took us about 15 to 20 minutes to make our way through the maze itself. My brother, however, was stuck in it for an hour! I guess he didn't want to cheat, because all you have to do is cut through the corn rows and try another path. Perhaps he just wanted to have the full experience. Anyway, we had some really fun people on this trip and we laughed all day long. I have some funny little video clips and pictures that I hope you enjoy. If you have never been to a corn maze, it is a blast! Well, on to the videos and pictures!

Here are a series of short clips. This first video was taken when we first arrived at the maze. The guys were goofing around and making everyone laugh:

When we finished the corn maze, we realized there were lots of other activities. There was a small area where there were cows, horses, chickens, turkeys, goats, and other farm animals. Here is a video clip of the Hubby and Jesse watching as Byron makes animal sounds:

Right past the animals was an old outhouse. (Hopefully an out-of-commission outhouse...). The next video is of Byron playing around with it:

Around the corner from the outhouse, there was a huge tower made of hay. You know those big round roll-type things of hay you see when you go on road trips? Yeah, those things. I don't know they're called. But they were stacked pretty high, so everyone climbed on top for a photo-op. Here is a five second video of Byron as he jumps off. You can hear his wife laughing at him as he falls. I love how this video ends with him in mid-air; too funny!

Here are some pictures from our day:

Group shot, as we embark on our journey...

Do you remember Nintendo and Super Mario Brothers? I'm just saying...

There was a cotton field next to the corn; Here Jesse poses with his cotton moustache. What is this fascination these guys have with moustaches?

Here are some chickens. I think? Are they chickens or roosters? I don't know anything about farm animals! I could probably tell if they were in plastic wrap in the freezer section, though.

A picture of some turkeys. There were lots of turkeys there that day. Not pictured: Byron, Jesse and the Hubby.

Now I realize that Byron is in all of the above videos. But for good reason. He's hilarious is why! I mean this is the guy that when asked the name of the machinery that harvests corn says, "Oh yeah, that's called a concubine, right? Not a concubine? It's a columbine! Right?"

Say "No" to crack!

2007-10-10T12:08:00.000-06:00

This little video from this morning doesn't need a lot of explaining. But I think you are really going to like this one! I am laughing as I write, just thinking about it!! These kids are something else, let me tell you:

The kids really love our cats, Lizzy and Darcy. The cats have finally started warming up to the babies as well. Darcy will come around and let the kids pet him and hug him and he's generally okay with the whole thing.

This morning Kensington loves on Darcy

And Camden joins in a group hug for the cat, too.

*I feel I must point out here that the mess you see in this picture is all set-up. In order for the pictures to look real and genuine, I had to place strategic props around the room to make it look "lived in." Because my house is a Southern Living Show home... All the time.

Dana Carvey

2007-10-09T13:14:00.001-06:00

Broccoli

2007-10-09T12:28:00.001-06:00

Broccoli. It's a staple food in our home. When I am going to cook dinner and ask the Hubby what he wants, without fail his answer always includes broccoli. (Thanks to Sesame street and Tara, we know how to spell it now...B-r-o-c-c-o-l-i, broccoli! broccoli!) I used to always give it two L's. Anyway, I cook a lot of broccoli. When I am making dinner and preparing the broccoli for steaming, I seem to end up humming the above little song as I "chop broccoli..." If you didn't watch it, you HAVE to. It's soooo funny!

Well, the other night my Sister-in-law, niece and nephew were over for dinner and of course, we had broccoli. I showed them the video on You Tube and we kept singing it all night, it's so catchy. After a while, the twins started singing it too. It was hilarious, and I tried several times to get it on video. It's not the best, but you can hear them trying to say, "choppin broccoli." Check it:

Well, I also started doing yoga again this week. (I mean, yesterday I tried to do some for about 20 or 30 minutes, and now I can barely type my arms are so sore.) I used to do an hour and a half a day. What happened? Where did I go wrong?
But alas, this must mark the end of my post for now. The kids are napping and this is my window to do more yoga; to torture myself and try to make my legs as sore as my arms, back and stomach. I will keep you posted in case I can't get out of the bed tomorrow...

My brother the Rockstar...

2007-10-05T15:08:00.000-06:00

My brother is quite the musician. He plays the 'pianoforte' very well and is quite accomplished. (It's the Jane Austen coming out in me...)Anyway, here is a little musical tidbit for you to enjoy of David singing with Byron and the Surge band. It's about two and a half minutes long, and don't worry; I can't understand a word they are saying either! When you look for David, he's the really tall one. Oh yeah, check your speakers cause it's kinda loud:

Lunch with Leigh Ann

2007-10-04T13:03:00.001-06:00

We got out of the house today in a much needed way. We had lunch with our friend Leigh Ann! We went to a great little sandwich shop and Kensi and Camden were nice enough to let me come along. They want all of the attention, you know. While we were there, Leigh Ann offered to get some pictures of me with the kids. Yes that's right, actual pictures of my kids with ME in them, too. I was all over that. She got some great shots and a cute video too. Peep this out:

Well, the kids are in the zone when it comes to giving kisses. They love to kiss each other, kiss Mommy, kiss Daddy, kiss grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Here are a couple pics of Leigh Ann getting in on the action:

I gotta tell ya, when these sweet little faces are turned up to you and those little lips are puckered, you just can't say no; even if they are a little slobbery! Well, I was sure to get as much lovin' from these babies as they were willing to bestow upon me. I am quite fortunate to enjoy the condescention and patronage of Lady Kensington Riley and Lord Camden Everett

Moose Pajamas

2007-10-03T08:00:00.001-06:00

My parents have returned from their trip to the New England area, and they brought the kids the most adorable moose pajamas. Last night we dressed the kids in their new threads and they just knew they were cute so they started doing hilarious stuff. I grabbed my camera and caught them playing together in our bathroom. Camden is spinning in circles and Kensington shows off her vocal talents once again in a rather interesting version of what we think is the ABC song:

And this morning, Kensi really, and I mean really wanted to kiss Camden and give him a hug. She wants to do this all the time. Well now it has become a game to Camden. Look what happens:

Lunch with Daddy

2007-10-02T12:14:00.001-06:00

Today, I got the kids ready and took them to their Daddy's office so we could all have lunch together. The twins are now 19 months old, but they still don't understand a lot of things yet. I guess you could say they don't have the ability to reason, or figure out why we do the things we do. They don't know why I dress them and put their shoes on, but they go along with it anyway. We get in the car; they don't know where we are going nor do they care but they go anyway. And it is so neat to see their faces when we pull up at the Hubby's office and he walks to the car and opens the door. They had no idea where we were going and I doubt they were sitting in their car seats wondering, "Are we going shopping? Or are we going to the grocery store?" But when they see their Daddy's face and hear his voice as he greets them, they get so excited! It is such a special moment. And one day they will be grown up, and will understand so much more. It's important that we teach them now, while they are young, the virtues of compassion, forgiveness, and the most fundamental element of humanity: Love. We have to SHOW them. So that when they are grown they can make decisions for themselves. They won't have to consult anyone else, or find out what their friends think. They will do what's right because it was lived in front of them; it becomes part of them. The Hubby and I love our parents and are so thankful for all we have learned from them. But now we are adults, and make our own decisions. We are blessed to have wonderful parents who taught us those virtues and showed us integrity and loyalty. Kensi and Camden will learn those same principles too, and when they are adults they will make decisions for themselves as well. Not because their parents told them to, but because they will know what is right. Love Never Fails!

Well, while we were at our lunch today, I got some footage of the Hubby giving the kids more lemon. The kids obviously don't like lemons as most kids don't. But they keep trying it anyway! It makes my mouth water and hurts my teeth to even think about eating a lemon. Nasty!

Yes, we had Mexican for lunch. We eat a lot of Mexican. It is so good! I love a good chicken chimichanga. Chicken chimichanga: Say that 5 times really fast! Go!

Well, I just seriously tried to say that five times really fast and it's impossible! I actually filmed myself trying to say it and in a Southern Housewife first, I am posting really bad, goofy video footage of myself trying to say it. See, this is why you keep coming back to this page; you just never know what new way I am going to implore to try to embarrass myself. Well today I succeed! Watch and laugh because I will probably take this down tomorrow:

I don't know if this video will make it until tomorrow...And I don't know who is more embarrassed, me or the Hubby...

Things I learned from my Parents

2007-10-01T07:48:00.001-06:00

Now that I am a mother and have kids of my own, I realize how important those things you pick up from your parents are. Things they show you by how they act, not necessarily things they sit down with a PowerPoint presentation to show you. Now sure, my Dad never taught me how to change out the oil in my car or replace spark plugs. And my Mother never had the lesson with me on how to properly julienne carrots; (She probably doesn't know what it is. I'm not sure I do...). But what they have taught me is a fierce loyalty to my family and friends. My parents have been this way with me and my brother our whole lives, and now that I am a mom, I have the opportunity to do so as well. My kids aren't perfect and neither am I. Who is? But when you are family, (and that includes those people you know and love that have become family), you love them NO MATTER WHAT. One definition of loyalty means "unwavering devotion." This steadfastness and constancy I have seen time and time again. Every person on the planet will have the opportunity to be loyal and constant, or desire the loyalty and constancy of others. Be loyal to those special people in your life. Don't hurt those who are hurting by judging. Love your family with an unswerving resolution. One day you may need it.

Here are some fun pictures of the kids from this week:

Our niece and nephew, Haley & Trent, play pretend nap time with Kensi & Camden. "Time to go to sleep!"

"Time to wake up!"

Camden loves blankets. He has started laying on the floor and rolling around to wrap himself up in his blankets. Here, he is on the kitchen floor.

He looks like he is pretend sleeping again.

He laid here for several minutes. He's too cute!

Kensi decides to sit on Camden while he is laying on the floor.

Oh my goodness! That is my princess!!

Camden in mid-sneeze. I love unique pictures...

I guess it feels better to have that out, huh?

Pictures of New England

2007-09-28T22:30:00.000-06:00

Well, Its Midnight on Friday night, and I have just received the first pictures from my parents on their trip to New Hampshire/Vermont/Maine. I talked to them today, and they are in Kennebunkport, Maine. Their hotel is one mile away from George W. Bush's vacation compound. Cool huh? They're having a great time. Here are some pictures of New England:

Ha ha. My little joke. On you! It's Tom Brady of the New England Patriots! (Who is also my fantasy football quarterback, and the Hubby has him in his league as well; And he has won all three of my games for me this season!!!!) Yes, I am in an all female fantasy football league; more on that later...

This pic is actually from my dad. He is super high-tech now with his little iPhone.

And I love this: The power line lets you know that although you are in beautiful country, you are not far from indoor plumbing and wireless internet access. And probably a venti decaf mocha latte from Starbucks.

"Is there any felicity in the world superior to this? Look there is some blue sky; Let us chase it!" -Marianne Dashwood in Jane Austen's Sense & Sensibility

Well, many thanks to mi Padre for the photos. However, I wouldn't be surprised if mi Madre actually took them.

I cannot finish my post without pictures or video of the twins. This was taken while eating in a Mexican restaurant. Enjoy!

Baby Love

2007-09-26T08:40:00.000-06:00

Our children are really coming into their own unique, interesting personalities. Our daughter, Kensi, is a very affectionate and loving child. She has always been this way; she loves to sit in your lap and lay her head on your shoulder and suck her two middle fingers on her right hand. And she will sit there for a long time, too. Camden, on the other hand, is more independent; he will cuddle, but it has to be his idea. And it may last for 30 minutes...or just 30 seconds. You never know. While holding him there is a joy that comes by having him in your arms, but there is also this anticipation. With every move he makes you keep thinking that at any second he is going to jump down and run away to play. Knowing that the kids are like this, it is very interesting to watch them interact, with each other. As we saw on a previous post, Kensi loves to hug Camden and give him kisses. But he is now realizing he doesn't like it as much as she does. About 5 hugs and 7 kisses is enough for him. Then he usually ends up running from her.

Sometimes in her enthusiasm to hug her brother, she grabs him with more force than is necessary:

Here is a great little montage of pictures of Kensi and Camden hugging some more. I know there is a lot of this, but I just can't get enough of it.
Create Your Own

I hope you enjoyed those!

My parents left today on a trip to New Hampshire. They are going to take some time away to relax and take in the sights. It's going to be beautiful, too. The leaves will be changing and it will be crisp and cool. They're also going to visit Kennebunkport, Maine which is where U.S. Presidents past and present go to vacation sometimes, too. My parents got new iPhones and my dad says he will email me pictures. My hope is to post a "picture of the day" from photos of their trip. Keep checking back and hopefully we will have a fresh picture of New England every day this week.

Banana Bread and something sweet...

2007-09-20T08:03:00.000-06:00

I don't know if you are ready for this newest video. I really don't think you are. It is the cutest, sweetest little thing and it is going to make your day! Now, prepare yourself for what's ahead; and that is all I'm going to say about it right now.

But before we get to the video, I want to share a delicious recipe with you for Banana Bread. I LOVE bananas, and anything made with them is tops in my book. I've never met with a banana bread I didn't like; but this recipe is so soft and moist and delicious, not dried out and definitely no nuts included. (The hubby doesn't like nuts in anything.) It is very simple and maybe one day when you have brown bananas, you will try this recipe. My dad and the Hubby can't get enough of this stuff. It's just good ole simple, man pleasin' food!

What you will need: a yellow cake mix, light brown sugar, oil, eggs, buttermilk, cinnamon, and of course: bananas. (the riper, the better.)

peel bananas and throw in a bowl, like so. I always get off those stringy things that try to stay on the banana but taste like cotton. Gross! Just peel them off and throw them away!

blend it until its mashed, but still has some yummy little lumps.

Then add eggs, brown sugar, cinnamon, cake mix, oil and buttermilk. Yes, this recipe also happens to call for a cake mix. You'll never know it when it is baked. Why make it harder if you don't have to? What are you anyway? The cake mix Nazi? Why do I keep explaining myself?!

Mix it until it is kind of smooth, with the occasional delicious banana lump. This is one time when lumps are good. Not good in the thighs, but good in banana bread.

grease and flour two loaf pans and start pouring!

Ah yes; this picture was not the easiest to get, as I was pouring and taking the picture myself. (Hey, I have twins; I can multi-task when I need to.)

Divide batter evenly and bake in the oven. Tip #48: It is important to make this right before your husband comes home or company arrives, so they smell how wonderful it is while it's baking and think you are amazing.

It has to bake for 45 minutes; so while its in the oven do your nails, or take a bubble bath. Or even re-caulk the bathroom tile. Just stay close so you can enjoy the aromas coming from the kitchen.

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Now it is time for the video. I have left you waiting long enough, so I'll end the suspense. Check this out:

Banana Bread

1 yellow cake mix

1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

2 very ripe bananas

3/4 cups buttermilk

1/2 cup oil (I like canola, but vegetable is fine)

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon cinnamon

Preheat oven to 350. Grease and flour two 9 or 10 inch cake pans. Mix all ingredients together with a mixer and pour into pans. Bake for 40-45 minutes. Cool in pans for 20 minutes then invert on a plate or rack to finish cooling.

YOU'RE HAVING TWINS!!!

2007-09-17T19:36:00.000-06:00

What did we do when we heard those words? Well, we were absolutely NOT expecting to hear them, so to say we were shocked is pretty accurate. I almost fell off the sonogram table and the hubby's jaw dropped straight to the floor. Did you say twins? As in two babies? Whah...? Then the tears came; tears of utter and absolute perfect happiness. At that moment we knew we were the two most blessed people on earth. God had given us not one, but two, precious lives to take care of. We couldn't wait to tell our parents and families. That was such a wonderful day. Nothing it seemed could be any better. But the day the babies were born surpassed the joy of that moment with so much more happiness.

It was a cold and rainy Saturday in February when I was wheeled into surgery. I had a c-section at 8:00 in the morning. I was Thirty-five weeks and 5 days pregnant when I delivered; normal pregnancy lasts 40 weeks, so the twins were early. Kensington was born at 8:48 and Camden at 8:49. She weighed 5 pounds and 7 ounces. Camden was smaller at 5 lb, 5 oz. That's almost 11 pounds of baby! Since they were early, they needed to go to the NICU (neo-natal intensive care unit) for specialized care. The babies were fine; they were perfect in fact; But they were early and small so we needed to be sure they were doing okay. The twins stayed in the NICU for weeks. About two for Kensi and three for Camden. We were so glad to get them home. Lets reminisce over some sweet pictures, huh? Oh, and a very special treat is below as well. I found some video clips The Hubby took of the babies when they were two days old! These have never been seen before!

Here I am with my Doctor, two days before a very unexpected delivery. Yeah, my due date was March 28th. (Hey, I know I'm big in this picture. I was preggars!)

Here is Kensington on her birthday.

And here is the sweetest little boy on earth, Camden.

The Hubby and I hold our little miracles. I was extremely swollen and not feeling very good in this picture. But I was so happy to have these babies out of my body!
Here my big brother David and the hubby's sister Jaymee hold the twins.

Here is the Hubby with Camden in the NICU.
And my mother watches over Kensi as she sleeps.
Here my Dad holds Kensi and tries to remember the day when he held me like this.
The twins were in this plastic bed for about one or two days.
After a few days, the babies started gaining weight and we were allowed to hold them. Here is Kensi as what I like to call a baby burrito.

And Camden was very very sleepy.
They got to stay together in this little bed until they came home.
Here we finally get to hold our babies and kiss their faces.

Well, all of that was a year and a half ago. These kids have totally and completely changed every aspect of our lives forever. And changed it for the better. I have never, for one second of my life, ever regretted having these babies. They are without question the best thing that has happened to us. Now, let's see the videos!

This first video is of Kensi. She is two days old, and has the hiccups:

This last video is of Camden. Notice how big the preemie diapers fit these little babies!

I hope you enjoyed this little trip down memory lane!

Football Weekend

2007-09-16T19:34:00.000-06:00

The sounds of indistinct cheering and the scent of grilling hot dogs and hamburgers in the air can only mean one thing: Football season is in full swing. From flags and pom-poms on fan's cars to the diverse array of jerseys and fantasy football leagues, I have learned to embrace the festivities as a natural part of life. I have always wondered at people who paint their face and even their bodies and drive for hours to a stadium; only to get caught in horrendous traffic, and then have to wait in line with thousands of people to sit in their seats that are hundreds of feet away from anything. And then they act like two year olds playing in the backyard in a sprinkler. To see grown men act like that! I truly don't understand it and I don't think I ever will. I just look at them in amazement; and hope and pray that my husband won't ever do it himself. Do you remember that episode of Seinfeld where Elaine's boyfriend Putty dresses up for games and paints his face? She tells him, "I can't be with anyone who paints their face." He says "okay, I won't do it anymore." So for the next game he is dressed normally; until they get there and he rips of his shirt, only to reveal that he has painted his body. Funny stuff.

Anyway, this weekend my brother-in-law Garrett had a game which we attended. Garrett is a football coach for a DI-AA school in Georgia, so we made a trip of it. It was pretty fun. I took some pictures to share with you:

This was when we first arrived and the band was giving a show.

Here is my niece, Haley. She's so beautiful!

This particular school had a great cheerleading squad. There were more guys, than girls, and I was fascinated watching them. The guys just threw those little girls up in the air like they were lighter than feathers!

Here is Garrett in the booth wearing his headphones. Red 44; Blue 29...that kind of thing.

The cheerleaders doin' their thang.

Here is my Mother-in-law and her husband cheering for the team.

Okay, now this guy impressed me. Look at this! He just held her right here. His arms are not even in a full extension. Dude, doesn't that hurt? Well, he saw me take this picture and he seemed to really like that. I got embarrassed and had to ignore him for the rest of the game.

Here is Haley and a friend posing with the team mascot. (It's a wolf, by the way.)

So, I just realized I had no pictures of the actual football team so I added this one. Hey, you gotta remember this blog is done by a chick!

Last but not least, my Sister-in-law Jaymee and my nephew Trent. It was so great to see them and spend some time with them, short as it was.
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This first video is of our sweet and funny little girl Kensington. She has been trying to learn how to jump. Nothing difficult, just a simple jump up and down in the air like her daddy does. This clip is really funny; she just can't seem to get off the ground!

We gave the kids a bath tonight and they were loving the water. More than usual. Camden actually cried when we took him out because he wanted to keep playing! But, I still got a cute video of them splashing in the tub. I hope you enjoy.

Big shoes to fill

2007-09-14T19:29:00.000-06:00

Next weekend the Hubby and I are going white water rafting with a group from our church. I have never been white water rafting, but the Hubby has. He told me we needed some shoes to wear while in the raft; something that will protect our feet and can get wet at the same time. So, we head to Wal-mart. We came up with a couple of interesting pairs of uber cool water shoes. Yeah, I'm talking about the kind of shoes I made fun of other people wearing when I was a teenager. Now, I have a pair. I am probably going to wear them, too. Here is a picture of our new shoes:

Yes, Cosmo and Vanity Fair have both called and want to do a photo shoot: ASAP. They begged us; they said they would even bump Brad and Angelina for us. But, we are just too busy to be bothered. The Hubby has a dentist appointment one day next week, and I have to get my roots done. All that and our upcoming rafting trip; we are just booked, I told em! So, while our agent notifies the press of our schedule, our son Camden finds the shoes. We are in the process of dressing them in their pajamas as it is bedtime, so they are half dressed. But he will not leave those shoes alone. He insists on wearing them around the house. Of course with camera handy I step in to document the cuteness. (Coincidentally, after the release of this video, three networks called and want Camden to do his own reality show):

Did you notice Camden's shirt? And yes, that's Kensi in her diaper. When she becomes an adult she will probably love that video and want it played at her wedding. She will probably be so proud of how skinny she is and love her facial structure. (ah come on. who am I kidding?) She will inevitably roll her eyes and call it some new, weird word for lame. Then she will make fun of US for buying such unattractive shoes.

Editors Note: If you want to mute the music playing on this page it's very easy to do; On the right side of the screen scroll down right under the blog archive, to where you see the word IMEEM. Just click the pause button. You will probably have to hit it twice, but it will mute the song and you can watch videos, music free.

Baking with Nana: Double Chocolate Pound Cake

2007-09-12T13:07:00.001-06:00

Well, Nana came by yesterday to spend time with her favorite daughter-in-law (yes, that's me) and her favorite twin grand babies (Kensi and Camden). And while she was here, we decided to bake. We made a most delicious double chocolate pound cake. It is so rich and delicious and fills the whole house with the most wonderful smell of chocolate. Unfortunately for the hubby, this one wasn't for us. We made it as a gift and actually gave it away! It was a little easier for me to do, as I am watching the waistline right now. But the hubby gets all kinds of delicious delicacies in his home so he really can't say much over one cake, right? Well, you really can't, honey. Look, I'm sorry, okay? Let's get started on our pictorial tour of culinary artistry, shall we? (Complete recipe to follow below.)

The cast of characters: Devil's food cake mix, chocolate pudding mix, sour cream, eggs, semi-sweet chocolate chips, oil and water.

Add cake mix, pudding, oil, water, sour cream, beaten eggs, and mix it up.

As Nana demonstrates, beat the eggs before you add them to the bowl. Okay, so yeah. This cake starts with a cake mix. Big deal! It's stinkin delicious! You gotta problem with delicious?

Add semi-sweet chocolate chips, then mix it all up gently.
Put your grandson on the counter so that he can supervise.
This next step is crucial. Take the batter covered beaters and put them in your grand children's mouths. They will follow you around for hours afterwards.
Make sure you get some on your fingers for them to lick.
When their faces look like this, you have done it right.
Ah, perfection! You may now continue in making your cake.
Pour the batter into a greased pan and spread evenly.
Get your baby granddaughter handy so she can learn how to do it, too.
Spread it around in the pan nice and pretty, and pop it into the oven!
After the torture of smelling it bake for over an hour, you must leave it in the pan to cool for another hour and a half. You see, this is not just a post on baking, it is also a study, focused on an ancient method of teaching your body self-control through olfactorial stimulation.

Once your cake is done, turn it out on a plate and serve it to your family. This cake is guaranteed to get you a back rub and a week's worth of not having to do the dishes. Okay, we have two featured videos for this post as well. This first one is of the kids getting their faces covered in chocolate, and of course, LOVING IT!

Our next video is of Nana giving the kids some water to "cleanse their palate." They find this quite hilarious. I know what you are thinking. Why is she wearing all white to make a double chocolate pound cake? Because she didn't know we were making it until she got to my house, that's why. And I will have you know she came out of this whole adventure with minimal damage. Only one spot of chocolate and the Tide-to-go stick took care of it beautifully, thank you very much. Now watch this last video and come back and see us.

Double Chocolate Pound Cake:

1 devils food cake mix (I always use Pillsbury)

1 - 5.9 oz pkg instant chocolate pudding mix

8 0z sour cream

1 cup vegetable or canola oil

4 eggs, beaten

1/2 cup warm water

1 pkg semi-sweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350. In a bowl, combine all ingredients except chocolate chips and mix well. Then add semi-sweet chocolate chips and stir gently. Pour into a greased bundt pan and bake for at least an hour. I usually cook for about 1 hour and 10 minutes. (Test with a knife or toothpick.) Let it cool in pan for at least an hour and a half; turn out on a plate and enjoy.

Happy Birthday Trent-o!

2007-09-10T15:00:00.000-06:00

This weekend was our nephew, Trent's birthday. He is now a strapping young man at the ripe age of 12. But he is wise beyond his years. He is oh so frugal with his money; he watches the stock market (he bought Google at $100 you know); and he will only wear Nike shoes on his feet; But this young man is bounding with charisma and potential. He is one of those kids everyone likes and parents want their kids to be friends with. You know the whole, "why can't you be more like blank" statement? I've heard it said many a time with Trent's name in there. He is truly one of a kind and we love him so very much. I hope my son will be like him, too. Well, we celebrated the anniversary of Trent's birth on Sunday. We grilled out hamburgers, which the Hubby did a fabulous job of cooking, and then we had cake! The below videos and pictures are in no order and have no relevance. They probably don't make sense either, but they are what they are.

This first video is from this morning. The kids were playing on the sofa. Sometimes people just don't know when to quit; and here is a prime example. Now, keep in mind the kids do all their own stunt work. There are no stand in's or stunt doubles. Note: no children were harmed in the making of this video:

Here is a random picture I took last week of Camden sleeping. Yes, he is laying on his arm.

How can a little boy be so stinkin cute? Come on now! I didn't put this on him either; He just likes to wear hats like his Daddy. This was all Camden's idea. Side view. He wore this hat for a long time, actually.

We go through lots of diapers. A box this size lasts about, oh...a week and a half, maybe. So we have lots of extra boxes around. We've learned to use them for storage, for planters, for firewood; they actually have lots of uses. I also have some nice Huggies Cardboard art I'm selling on Ebay.

Here the little girl plays 'hide and seek.' She thinks if her head is hidden behind the blinds I can't see her. Ah, the brain of a one year old!

I found you sweet girl!
The kids watching Trent play Xbox.
Camden wants some more cake! Please??
After Trent's birthday cake, we all decide to go for a walk. From left to right: Haley, The Hubby, Jaymee, Laurie (The hubby's mom), and Trent. Strollers left to right: Kensi & Camden!
Today we visited Daddy at his office. Kensington HAD to have her purse.

And here is the sweet Camden in his new blue shirt. Doesn't it bring out his eyes?

This last little video I threw in here for no particular reason. It's just a simple video of the kids. Camden really likes his crackers!

Time off with the family

2007-09-05T12:57:00.000-06:00

Well the hubby took off a couple days from work to spend some quality time with the fam. Time we much appreciate. We love it when he takes time off for no other reason than just to be at home with those who love him most. While he was home, we decided to let our children try to feed themselves during lunch. So, we gave them toddler spoons and green bean casserole and let them have at it. Of course, I got video footage of the whole thing. Surprisingly, we didn't end up with green beans on the ceiling or in our hair. They did pretty good with whole thing. Take a look:

Being that we live in Alabama, football is huge. Let me repeat myself: football is HUGE! Especially this year since we have this fabulous new coach that everyone loves named Nick Saban. I don't really know a whole lot about it, or him; but since I have a husband, brother, father, and a brother-in-law (who is a football coach himself) I must live with this phenomenon called: football season. And actually, my sister-in-law Jaymee is much more qualified to discuss this subject than me! The whole point of this before I started rambling is about Alabama football. Since the Tide had their first game on Saturday, the twins had to dress for the occasion. If you are an Auburn fan, I apologize. Pictures:

The Hubby with Kensi & Camden in their cute Alabama outfits. Back view.

Kensi & Camden again, in their cute outfits. Front view.

She has on her matching red sandals and her Cinderella purse.

But she must stop for one more picture...

And here Uncle David holds Camden in his lap

The kids spent the night with Grammy and Paw Paw so they decided to play dress-up. Camden wanted to be Superman and Kensi is always a princess. Grammy bought them cute little outfits to play in. Check out this round of shots! Now you must prepare yourself...

Da da da Daaaa!!! Ladies & Gentlemen: Princess Kensington!

Its a bird, its a plane...No! Its Super-Camden! Saving the day in style!

The princess is on her royal throne and will not allow the Super-hero to save her.

So, the Super-hero goes to test out his new shoes and see if anyone else needs rescuing.

On Monday, we went to a church-wide picnic at a friends house. We were not there very long as the kids had not had their nap. But, I did grab a few great pictures:

Here is Paw Paw with his perfect grand babies.

And Grammy cuddles with Kensington

The kids love to sit in Paw Paw's lap and try to drink his water.

Ah yes; This picture is here because he picked on me at the picnic. Take that Wendell!

And the boys. Uncle David left, the hubby right, and Camden stands in front. And that's Kensi with her new turquoise bow, too.

Before I close down my post for the day, there is one more thing I must discuss. To those of you out there who are married, this is for you. You know those silly things your spouse does just because they know they can get a rise out of you? Well, the hubby knows how I feel when he wears socks with his sandals. It is the biggest fashion faux-pas known to man besides leopard spandex pants, maybe. Just maybe. Well, the hubby does this when he goes to play golf. He says he can't wear his golf shoes on pavement because it will mess them up. So he wears his sandals over his socks, until he gets there. But it's just embarrassing to me! Did I ever tell you that in 1999 when I met the hubby, that on our first date he showed up wearing socks and Birkenstocks? Oh yes he did. Yes, he did. Well I caught him doing this again. But he wasn't going to play golf. He was taking out the trash. What if one of our neighbors saw this???

Well, now we have to move!!

Playdate at Chick-fil-A

2007-08-30T11:36:00.000-06:00

Today the twins and I went to Chick-fil-A with our friends, Shannon and Kim and their kids to play and have lunch. We had so much fun, even though my kids just stood there the whole time watching the other kids play. Shannon's little boy Roman is the same age as the twins, but he was climbing all over the place and having a blast! He climbed all the way through the jungle gym and went down the slide several times. And here are my kids, just standing there watching. Kim's youngest little boy Tanner is one, and he was also playing and enjoying himself. The twins? Still standing there. Yes, it was a little embarrassing. But, after a while they started to venture out a little, which you will see in the video below. They are trying to climb up the slide backwards. I was just proud of them for trying!

Did you notice how Tanner had to move somewhere else to play because my kids wouldn't go anywhere? Yeah, sorry about that Tanner!

Well, here are some pictures from our fun play date!

Kensington & Roman looking up at the bigger kids.

Camden pretty much hung out here the whole time.

And Kensi pretty much did too.

Here they follow Roman, because he is cool!

Camden watches as Roman shows him how to really play. And see Kensi climbing over there? Well, that's as far as she went. Actually, she didn't even make it to the first step. Oh well.

This is Parker. It was his birthday and he had to show us his 'guns.' He told us that now that he is five, he is faster and stronger and bigger. And he is! Happy Birthday Parker!

Also, that is Shannon behind him. I have to give her some props here. She showed up for this playdate with three kids. Iris, who is not quite 3, Roman, a year and a half, and get this: a 3 week old!!! Hello somebody!! And her hair is fixed and she has on make-up! So can someone please remind me that I can never complain!? I mean, not that I do. Ever. Like ever. Really.

Independent Filmmaking

2007-08-29T13:31:00.000-06:00

We have a new game we play with our kids. We ask them, "Where's your tummy? Where's your nose?" and so on. This little video clip is of just that. I am asking Kensi and then Camden where certain things are. Now, don't be upset at the rawness of this video footage. My lighting director was out today so we had to make do with just make-up and wardrobe. There are a few shadows in the video but I am doing the best I can with what I have to work with. If my actors could actually follow the script it would help matters immensely. (Plus, it didn't help that 'Key Grip' and 'Dolly Grip' were out on vacation.) So don't pull out your Valentino gown and Oscar De la Renta pumps in preparation of the Oscars. We've got a ways to go yet!

I hope you enjoyed the show. The actors are certainly pleased and seem to want to watch the videos of themselves all the time. *actors....*

Composition 101

2007-08-28T08:17:00.000-06:00

Well, being that I was a music major in college, I have a few tidbits of wisdom to share with my little ones. A love and passion for music is supreme; this is something my father taught me and his mother before him. There are many kinds of music to be enjoyed, but for this post I am referring mainly to the classical genre. I grew up in a house where the sounds of Mozart and Chopin were played daily from our small little upright piano, which I now own. I have a small piece of family history right in my living room; I love that piano! Anyway, my father prefers the sounds of Bach, the "Father of Music" but I prefer the emotions only achieved from a piece by Beethoven. It is this love and appreciation of music that I wish to pass on to my young ones. I try to play the piano for them as much as I can. When I was pregnant I tried to play pretty regularly, that is, in between trips to the restroom to puke...but alas, that is for another post. The twins are now a year and a half old; and they love to play the piano. Below is a short video clip of one of their duets for piano with soprano solo. It is definitely for those with a taste for the "modern" classical movement. (Be sure to mute the music on the right side of the screen) Enjoy:

A video and pictures

2007-08-27T09:25:00.000-06:00

Well, hooray for blogger! Blogger is the platform I use which makes this whole life-changing blog possible. Anyway, as of today I can now post videos on my blog in addition to pictures. I will be testing this out and I am so excited! I have so many videos, some of the hubby chasing the kids, the twins eating their first lemon and so on. Now to begin. This first video is one taken this morning of Camden. He is wearing his new Elmo pajamas and doing a new dance:

So that is pretty cute, huh? Especially when he looks at the camera and smiles? Is your heart melting right now or what? Well, a couple weeks ago we had a visit from some friends, Amy and Harbor. They came by one afternoon to chat and let the kids play together. Amy has four kids; three were in school, but she brought her newborn, Mason. Harbor has a little boy who is almost 3 and his name is Carter. Here are some really fun pictures!

Here Kensi & Carter play together; (That is the top of Camden's head lower left.)

Mason takes a nap; Camden is trying to figure out what is going on!

Kensi thinks this baby is sooo sweet!

"Hey Kensi, can you believe we were this size once?"

Amy and her newest baby, Mason

Close-up of sweet baby Mason!

Kensington & Camden in their new Elmo Pj's

Yeah, that's Darcy back there stretched out on the floor.

She hasn't moved an inch for this whole series of pictures. She's watching Elmo!

Don't open that drawer! No Camden!

Movie Review!.....Becoming Jane

2007-08-21T09:04:00.000-06:00

I went to see the latest Jane Austen movie in theaters, Becoming Jane this past weekend. I feel I am pretty attune to the Jane Austen fever that has taken hold in the last few years, as I myself, have gotten the fever. (And the only cure is more cowbell?) Anyway, I do own three different versions of Pride & Prejudice (which doesn't really say much as there are about 25 versions. Did you know that?) Several different Emmas, Persuasion, Sense & Sensibility, Northanger Abbey, Mansfield Park. I own a series of the BBC versions done in the early 70's. The 1995 BBC version of Pride & Prejudice is by far my favorite; and Colin Firth will always be the true Mr. Darcy to me. I have been to Bath, England, and visited the Jane Austen Center. I saw where she lived! My cats, are named Lizzy and Darcy; I have been learning the score from Sense & Sensibility for the piano. Are you now convinced that I like Jane Austen? Well, to say I was excited for the release of Becoming Jane doesn't convey the 'violence of my affections.' So, we went opening night for our city. We waited in the movie theater for over an hour to catch the late show and it was worth every minute! The movie takes what little knowledge we have of Jane Austen, and for lack of a better word 'embellishes' her life story. If you like Pride & Prejudice, you will LOVE this movie. They are very similar in characters, story, and plot. Anne Hathaway plays Austen and she is fabulous. James McAvoy plays Tom Lefroy, which is Jane's love interest. He is simply amazing in this role. I was very pleasantly surprised to see his performance. And the chemistry between the two! The movie seemed very accurate historically, and was moving, funny, and witty. The end of the movie is extremely touching, and I was unashamedly in tears and even the hubby confessed to a lump in his throat. The bottom line is this: Anyone with any amount of romanticism in their soul will enjoy this movie, but Austen fans will LOVE IT!!! I sure do! So you must go see it now! Make haste, make haste!

Here are a few pics from the movie I found on Google:

Pictures from the weekend

2007-08-20T09:10:00.001-06:00

Well, this post will be predominately about our children. We had quite a fun and eventful weekend. We took the kids to PF Changs for my parents anniversary on Friday night. The night started out great despite the fact that the kids only got one nap and they ALWAYS take two each day. But, that wasn't really so bad. What was bad just happened to be the fresh veggies my mother had fed my children the day before. Full of fiber veggies. Oh yeah, it's just what you're thinking. From the straining and the red face, it was pretty evident our daughter has just had her daily constitution while we were eating our chicken fried rice and veggie wraps. It's gross, I know, but so it was. Discreetly, the husband and I plan to get her from her highchair; I will excuse myself to the restroom, change her diaper, and return to enjoy my chocolate cake with no one the wiser. The Great wall of Chocolate, to be exact. The only reason I will eat at this restaurant is for this luscious, seven layer chocolate on chocolate cake with raspberry sauce and fresh berries. But first I must change a diaper. Well, as the husband tries to get Kensi from the highchair a look of disgust, horror and panic cross his face over the course of about 1.3 seconds. "Uh, honey," he says. "Help me! There's stuff all over the highchair!" And there was. I will not go into details. Suffice it to say, it was pretty embarrassing. But it just gets better. My brother was also present at this dinner, with his friend Leigh Ann, who is meeting the parents for the first time. So, as I help the hubby get our child from her highchair, my mother sensing something amiss, runs over to help. Leigh Ann, God bless her, also comes over to assist in any way she can and they both realize what has happened. Through a forced smile I laugh, "Welcome to my world!!" Leigh Ann and my mother clean up the mess while I take Kensi to the restroom. It's just too embarrassing! But what a great help they were in getting everything taken care of. Well, after things were handled, we were able to relax for a moment and try to enjoy our cake. And as embarrassing and disgusting as this whole scene was, I still feel that something good did come from all of this: Bonding. The comraderie that is formed from cleaning up baby poo just can't be duplicated. So now for some pictures!! (not of the poo, of us! Come on now. I won't go that far!)

Here the hubby poses with his arm looking quite awkward.

My handsome big brother David and beautiful Leigh Ann pose for a shot.

Here is the happy couple. Celebrating 33 years of wedded bliss. (get it? 3 and 3?)

She is quite happy eating her banana and wearing her monkey dress.

The hubby is trying to tell our daughter, who just discovered her finger fits perfectly inside her left nostril, that it is not appropriate table behavior! He is however, demonstrating facially what is appropriate table behavior!

Here is our son, Camden, (and Kensi's twin brother.) He was perfect the whole night except for closing his eyes during this picture!

Our little princess!

What a big boy he is!

She is such a sleepy little girl!

This is what the kids do all day: Make a mess and lay around the house. Hey, that sounds like exactly what I do too; hmmm.....
We are going to Grammy and PawPaw's house. Get your purse!
No, not that way Kensi. Let's go to the door!
She stops for a quick picture...
And then she is ready to go again.
"Why does the paparazzi keep following me? Like how many pictures do they need? It's just a purse! Like, okay already! Where's my limo?"

Sharks, revisited

2007-08-13T11:43:00.001-06:00

You may remember the shark story I shared with you a month or so ago. The one about the hubby in the water as a huge dark shadow swims towards him? Yep. Well, I have it on good authority that it really was, indeed a shark. A good family friend who is from that area of Florida, told my mother recently that Seaside is most particularly known for having lots of sharks in the area. She said everyone who lives down there knows about them. The locals don't talk about it because it would really affect tourism. Anyone seen Jaws? That's what I'm talking about. Our friend also said, it would be virtually impossible for a seal to be that far in the gulf. They just never go that way, because the water is way to warm. They stay in the Pacific because it's cold. Okay, so at this point the Hubby is asking why the local police told everyone it was a seal. Good question with an even better answer: because the police don't want people to know there are sharks and to get scared. People will start to panic. Ever seen Jaws 2, 3 or 4? Uh-huh. So, the only rational conclusion to be drawn from this new information is that it was, in fact a shark. Wow! Now, the husband still will not accept it to be a shark. I, however, need no further proof. It was definitely a shark.
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This week...

So, the hubby has decided it is finally time to sell the house and move to greener pastures. Yes, we are going to buy a farm and raise chickens and churn our own butter. Then, I will drive to Saks for some Laura Mercier hand lotion and Salvatore Ferragamo pumps. Okay, well obviously I'm kidding. But, we are going to put the house on the market. Our real-estate agent is coming by the house tonight to discuss our options and look over the place. Its pretty exciting to think about moving; but its a big deal, too. Now that we have kids we have a whole lot more stuff to move. Want to see some pics? Check it:

Camden Drinks from his newest cup with a curvy straw. They love straws!

Here the little boy squats to see what's going on the other room.

Kensi drank a lot of juice this morning.

Look at those cute little lips puckered up on the straw! You little cutie pie!

Last week Kensi had her hands full; She says, "follow me! I will lead you to a land flowing with milk and honey!"

Here I am with my children. I just love them SOOOO much!

Aunt Jaymee holds Kensi as she tries to decide if she wants her milk or her fingers...

And here, Jaymee kids around with her little brother. These two are hilarious.

School has started for Trent & Haley

2007-08-08T12:23:00.000-06:00

Well, its a day of many emotions. It is the first day of school for my niece and nephew, Haley & Trent. A happy day for them, as they are another year older in school. A sad day for us as we have to say goodbye. Goodbye? Are they moving somewhere? Are you not going to see them for a long time? No, No, of course not. But this has been such a wonderful summer with Trent & Haley-boo. They have spent countless hours here at the house with me and the twins and they are such sweet, precious people. Now that school has started and summer is at its close, they will not be here when the twins wake up; No more forts made from chairs and blankets and pillows; no more trips to Taco Bell and Wal-mart. And its just sad, people. We have truly enjoyed the company of such funny, energetic, and loving young people. Trent is now in the sixth grade. I told him this was a pivotal year for him. Its as if he's standing at the door to his future. He said, "what does pivotal mean?" Haley is now in the fourth grade. This is her first year to ride the school bus without her big brother. My how they grow up. The other day we all had ice cream at Dairy Queen together and Haley said, "I just think whoever invented ice cream is awesome!" then she proceeded to tell me that if she was really skinny she would eat a whole bucket of french fries. These are the things we will miss! I am so thankful for our summer and our special time together. Now for some pictures!

Trent & Haley push Kensi & Camden around the house in their strollers a lot. The kids just love it!
Well, its probably pretty safe to say everyone is watching Sesame Street! uummm, What's the name of that song again?
A sweet pic of the boys from our trip to the beach this summer.
And here are Trent & Haley dressed in their summer fashions. Thank you for sharing your summer with us!

Happy Birthday Jaymee!!

2007-07-25T14:47:00.000-06:00

Well, Jaymee had a birthday yesterday. She finally turned 31! Hooray for Jaymee! So, Monday night we had a special night devoted just to her. We had dinner and dessert and decorated the house to be birthday-ish. She is such a special person to her family for so many reasons. She is a great listener and gives superb advice. She is thoughtful and caring and sensitive. Now, don't get me wrong, cause the girl can speak her mind; but if she does, you know she cares, because she doesn't do it to just anybody. (And its actually quite funny to hear this five foot tall, petite blond, telling you there's broccoli hangin' outch yo' grill.) Nonetheless, she is admired and loved and deserves so much. She puts her family first in everything she does, and spares nothing when it comes to her kids. That in itself deserves an award. She's constant and steady no matter what is going on in her life. She is one amazing woman! So, enough sappy stuff, let see some pictures!

Here The hubby and his big sister Jaymee pose beneath a strand of balloons. How cute is that?

Jaymee takes a fake punch at her little brother.

Jaymee with her kids, Trent & Haley.

I love this picture! She's getting him! Get him, get him, get him!!

Grandaddy comes for a visit!

2007-07-13T09:32:00.000-06:00

Well, Grandaddy came to visit us this past week to spend time with his children and grandchildren. He came solo this time, as Grandma was attending the wedding of her niece. However, we are glad to get whatever we can! Grandaddy drove all the way from Charlotte, North Carolina to the thriving metropolis of Birmingham. So, we had a great weekend. We had lots of great food and most importantly, lots of time to spend together. Check out some pictures!

Here is Grandaddy with Camden. Camden really took to Grandaddy on this visit and wanted to sit in his lap a lot. Male bonding...

Here Camden gets a bite of lasagna from Grandaddy. Whatever the adults are eating, they want it too!
Family dinner. Its so nice for all of us to sit down together and enjoy a meal.

Business as usual. Grandaddy's closing deals and making people's dreams come true! (He's a real estate agent, not a drug dealer! Come on people!)
The hubby and nephew Trent throw a football as we take a walk through the 'hood. Haley's hauling the kids!
Uncle Garrett is throwing the football and Camden really wants to join in the fun. Garrett has accepted a football coaching job in Georgia and he starts this Monday!!

Congratulations Uncle Garrett!
Here Kensington enjoys the company of her Dad's Dad. She really just wants to play with that computer!
And here I look on as Grandaddy talks to the kids and asks them if they are BIG? Look at Kensi's cute little face...

Alas, this is the homemade strawberry cake that made us all gain 2 extra pounds this weekend. When the lid was lifted off the cake you could smell the strawberries...oh heavens. I'm going to have to go make another one!

Fun in the kitchen

2007-06-28T10:57:00.000-06:00

Well, the other day my parents came over for dinner, and my mother and I made a delicious feast for the menfolk. We had gone to an open air market here in the Birmingham area and purchased some fresh veggies. For our dinner we made fried pork chops, fried okra, steamed squash, fresh field peas and fresh corn. It was so delicious! After our meal, I had a sweet-tooth; which happens pretty regularly. So, I made a wonderful little dish called Cream Cheese Squares. It is a very simple recipe, and so yummy!

Here's what you need:

2 can refrigerated crescent roll dough
2 - 8 oz packages cream cheese
1 cup of white sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup butter/margarine
1/4 cup white sugar
1 tsp cinnamon

Spray a 9x13 pan and spread out one pkg crescent dough.

In a separate bowl mix together the cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar until it is creamy. Then spread on top of the dough.

Unroll the other pkg of crescent dough and place on top. Do not press it down. Just lay it there all sweet and pretty.

Then, melt the butter or margarine (I use butter) and pour that yummy goodness all over the top of it. Then mix the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar and teaspoon of cinnamon and sprinkle all over the top.

Bake at 35o for 25 to 30 minutes our until the top is golden and slightly crusty. This is wonderful warm, but it is also good the next day. Eat up!

Notes from the beach

2007-06-22T09:32:00.000-06:00

Well, we have just returned from our latest trip to the beach. This trip was to Seacrest, where we rented a house called "Happy Hour." We picked the house because it had the bedrooms and space we needed; also, the location to the pool and beach was great. However, the owners of the house really like their martinis! They had decorated it with decor that was of the nature of alcohol. The name Happy Hour should have clued me in! Nonetheless, the house was fabulous and we had a great time. We rode bikes a lot, and we rented this cool little hitch to pull behind a bike. The kids were SO cute in it! Here are a few pictures:

Here is the front of our house called Happy Hour. This was a great house; four bedrooms, three baths and lots of extras.

Here is the hubby pulling Kensi & Camden in the bike trailer. Kensi really liked this little thing; Camden...not so much. We gave them juice to drink and there was a nice breeze, but he just didn't seem to like it as much as Kensington. Oh well.

Here we are on the way to the pool. The hubby is pushing Kensi in the stroller but he doesn't realize how his bulging bicep muscles are so distracting to passer-bys. Put those things away, man!

Here is my brother-in-law, Garrett. This is classic Garrett in action. He is the kind of guy you always want around. He just steps up and does things that need to be done but no one thinks to do. He is always helping other people out to make things easier. I imagine that in his head he is thinking, "What needs to be done here? Well, I can do this and this...Okay, lets go!"

Here is the Hagin family. This is my hubby's sister Jaymee, (as mentioned in previous posts) her husband Garrett (above) and their two wonderful kids Trent & Haley. We usually end up at some beach with them every summer. WE LOVE IT!! We love this family very very dearly.

Here is my son, Camden, playing with the bike rack. Who needs to buy toys with kids this age? They love Kleenex boxes and empty water bottles.
Little Kensi walking down the red brick road. She doesn't know where she's going; nor does she care. She is free, and she is going to try to go as far as she can, let me tell you!

Here is our daughter, Kensington Riley showing off her little baby Mohawk in the pool. You didn't know she had enough hair to do that did you?
And the boy in his float with his toys. He really liked the water this time. They're growing up fast, folks!

Here is Nana and Poppy. We were eating at a crab house this night. It was a lot of fun. What great memories are created on vacations!
Here is Jaymee & Garrett. What a great picture! Can we say, 'tan?'

This picture is of the hubby's youngest sister, Maegan, and her adorable daughter, Cami.
This is the hubby's other younger sister, Stacey. Stacey is engaged to a great guy named Ben and they are getting married next year. Also pictured is my nephew Trent, and my son Camden.

(You may not know it, but the hubby has three sisters. Jaymee is the oldest, then the hubby, then Stacey and then Maegan.)

This picture was taken at a wonderful restaurant called the Three Thirty-one. Oh my goodness their food is the BEST!! I always get the blackened fish with spinach on a grit cake. But the Panne chicken with capers is amazing. Everything here is good! Oh yeah, this is my hubby and his big sis, Jaymee.
Here is Jaymee looking *gorgeous* as we are getting ready to go to dinner. I love this yellow dress with her hair. Mmmmmhhhmmmm...
This little shot is from our professional photo shoot we had done on the beach. If this shows up in your mailbox at Christmas...pretend you haven't seen it before!
Can we say "screensaver??"

Going to the beach!!....and sharks!

2007-06-08T09:45:00.000-06:00

We are so excited! We are leaving in the morning for the beach! Since we live in Alabama, a trip to the coast is the customary vacation for most Alabamians. There are so many beautiful beaches within just a few hours drive. We go every year, at least once. Usually about two or three times. I was talking with the hubby last night about a very particular beach trip we took in 2004. We were vacationing with some friends of ours from Nashville, and we had a house right outside of Seaside, Florida. We were the first guests to stay in this brand new, beautiful house. Well, one day the hubby and I decided to go to the beach, and for some reason it was just the two of us. Literally, you could look both ways down the beach, and it was just us. It was almost like being on an island somewhere. Maybe like being on the show Lost; only there were no "others" or hatches buried in the sand. Anyways, it was really hot, so the hubby decided to take a dip in the drink. I don't really like the ocean, so he was all by himself in the water. Well, as I am laying on my towel cooking in the heat, I suddenly hear voices. What is that? I think to myself. I sit up and notice a group of people running down the beach toward me. What are they doing? Why are they looking at me? Why are these people yelling? I look closer...Are they pointing? Towards the ocean? Towards my HUSBAND??? At this point, things started happening in slow motion. I turned my head toward my hubby who is neck deep in the ocean. I see this horrible look of terror on his face as we both realize what is going on. Then I see it: There is a huge black shadow swimming toward my husband. Directly towards my husband. He heard the voices as well, and by the time he could figure out what was going on he saw something huge in the water coming straight for him. By the time I could get up off my towel and try to do something the hubby was basically almost out of the water. The look on his face I will never forget. As he comes ashore, the people make it down to us. What is that?? We ask them. Well, it turns out that is was not a shark as we all thought; ironically, it was a brown seal. Where he came from we don't know, but obviously he was lost. The people who came down the beach told us that the sheriffs department had told them there was a brown seal swimming around in the gulf. The sheriff told them that he would probably not last long, and that the sharks would get him. Anyways, after the hubby caught his breath, we looked down the beach to watch where this seal was going. Way down the beach there was a group of girls on rafts. Where's the camera? The hubby yells; then he takes off with camera in hand. Here is the picture he took:

This is the group of young girls on floats; To say they freaked out when they saw the shadow is quite an understatement. The water parted like the red sea is more like!

I zoomed in so you could see the shadow, but it doesn't show up very well. But, its right there on the left. The seal was pretty large; He looked to the hubby, (as he saw him in pretty close range,) to be at least 6 feet or so.

Here is the house where we stayed; The Camelot.

Here we are posing on the highest deck towards the ocean.

Here is one of our black and white beach shots. This was obviously, pre-kids.

Well, I have always been fascinated with sharks. I would love to go to south Africa and do a shark dive with great whites. Yes, it sounds crazy. I would only do it if I was in a cage. Cage diving only, people. (Mom stop freaking out...) Anyways, I think that would be really cool. I have actually looked into it and they do them in California. Maybe I will do it one day. They say sharks are really like little fluffy baby kittens. And I love little furry kitties!

I think I will call him whiskers...

Reminiscing...and cleaning!

2007-06-02T15:06:00.000-06:00

Let's reminisce. Come with me for a few minutes as I venture back into the past and remember my childhood; Then, let's explore the hubby's childhood too. Okay, let's begin: I have one brother, older by two years. He and I had a great childhood, growing up on a quiet street with lots of kids to play with. Being that I was two years his junior, I wasn't really cool enough to hang with him and his older buddies until I was, mmm...a senior in high school. But, the summer days of old; Ah, those memories of riding bikes and running through the sprinkler, and setting the carpet on fire. Yes, yes; those are the dear memories I carry with me through adulthood. Our many pets, family vacations, and lots of soccer and basketball games. It just seems like yesterday. Life was such an easy game to play...

Now as for the hubby, his childhood was wonderful as well. The hubby has an older sister named Jaymee. She and the hubby have a very special and unique relationship. They are as close as any brother and sister I have ever seen or known of. I love to hear some of their stories about the Magic Ballroom, and kicking soccer balls through windows. They grew up in a variety of places; North Carolina; Virginia; Tennessee; and have now given their hearts to sweet home Alabama. Jaymee and her family live only about 5 miles away and it's wonderful.

So how about some pictures you say? Alright then, just calm down! Now take a look:

Here I am at the beach. I guess I am about 2 or 3? Even then I did not like going into the ocean. Salt-water is just nasty and you don't know what might be swimming around you, ya know?

This is the hubby as a baby. How old is he? His mother will have to tell me. I would guess 1 or 2. What cute hair!

This next picture is of me and my brother. I don't exactly know what's going on here, but David is sure happy about something. The back of this picture says June '78. So I was about 5 months old. Hmph. Well, I'm sure alert and sitting up well for 5 months.

This is an adorable picture of Jaymee and the hubby. I don't know any history of this picture; and the hubby doesn't remember anything to tell me either (surprise, surprise). Why is it that men just don't remember much about childhood? Well, I just love this faux wicker/rattan wallpaper they are sporting in the foyer.

Okay, so anyone growing up in the 70's or 80's knows what Olan Mills is and probably has a slew of pictures posing behind something made of wood. Aren't these cute? I am wearing playful pigtails and the hubby has on the cutest suit with shorts I have ever seen. Honey, why don't you wear this shade of butter yellow anymore? I hope our siblings will still speak to us after the publishing of these photos...
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Cleaning!

So, the hubby and I spent today cleaning the house. Like REALLY cleaning the house. while I am doing laundry and cleaning bathrooms, the hubby rearranges his t-shirts. Need I say more? (That is totally something my dad would do. Why is it that at 6:00 am on the day we are leaving for vacation and all of our luggage is packed and the car is ready to go, that my dad has to go organize his underwear drawer?) Okay, so the hubby did more than just clean out old t-shirts; he actually did a LOT. He cleaned out the guest bedroom and the closet that was full of stuff. He made lots of trips up and down the stairs carrying out junk as well. He was actually sweating. I didn't sweat; that would be so icky. Well, here are just a few pictures of the fruits of our labors:

This is my uber clean kitchen. I LOVE it when my kitchen is clean. And it is gleaming right now. It is so clean, some would think my Father-in-Law was coming to visit. My kitchen is never this clean unless my Father-in-Law is coming into town.

Here is the twins bedroom. It can be hard to clean this room because it seems like they are always asleep in here! And when they are awake, I can't just go up there and clean it!

This is the closet that the hubby cleaned out. I wish I had a before and after picture. You have no idea how huge this is! This closet was so full the doors wouldn't close! And now look. It's so luxurious...

And now, a picture of our bedroom. We cleaned it out and made the bed, (which takes about 5 or 10 minutes in itself). But when it is made, it looks so nice and fluffy. Don't you just want to run in there and jump across it?

Lastly, here is my gorgeous honey. I love this new kit he is kickin. He is just so trendy in his green t-shirt and jacket; So Ryan Seacrest-ish.