The little things...

Toddler activities

2011-08-20T07:14:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to find little things for Alex to do that will help him learn and stay occupied. So, this a.m. I made a little pom pom push through tub. It took all of 3 minutes to make. Anyway, I showed him how to do and it was really excited. He has to push the pom poms through the holes in the little tub. I went to get my camera and snap a few pics.

So, after a few minutes, Alex asked Mac if she wanted to try. He pushed the tub over to her and she said sure she would. It was sweet, the two of them working together and even more important that Alew wanted to share! Anyway, he runs out of the room and then comes back with this.

He went to get his camera and started taking pictures. Mac and I were cracking up - he is so cute and smart. He just adds so much to our family. We love him!

POOR THING - but he wanted me to get a picture - I'm sure one day, I will be in BIG TROUBLE for this - but now, it's just funny.

A little bit of Alex

2011-08-20T06:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I had forgotten to get McKinley's strawberries in the car for her Fruit of the Spirit party, so once I dropped her off at school, Alex and I ran into Kroger. As I am looking at the blueberries (yes, I changed because I wasn't going to have time to wash and cut with Alex up at the school), Alex decides that HE wants to look at berries and throw them back down in the bin. FIRST mistake on my part was that I didn't get a cart. I was literally walking into to get berries and then check out, so a matter of a few minutes mind you. Anyway, I told Alex that he couldn't touch the berries, to please look with his eyes, he then decides to hit me in the face and start screaming. I looked at him and told him that hitting me wasn't okay and that we would need to say I'm sorry. He started going absolutely crazy. Hitting and screaming as loud as he possibly could. I'm sure the meat guy at the back of the store could hear him. Anyhoo - the poor man in his twenties, kept stacking the same nectarines over and over again because I'm sure he felt a little awkward. I told Alex that we would have to do a time out right there. I put him under the bin of berries and then turned the corner by the mini oranges. He is screaming at the top of his lungs telling me NO!! I DONE! I kept ignoring him, holding my own. His time was up - I asked him to come to me and told him that he needed to apologize. He said, NO!!!! I done! And then HIT ME AGAIN. So, as I am talking to him and having him sit in timeout yet again, this time by the oranges, a lady who works somewhere in the store approaches Alex, and says, HEY! (she is trying to distract him, which was sort of thoughtful and would have been okay, EXCEPT I am CLEARLY disciplining him.) I sweetly looked at her and told her that he was in trouble and having to sit in a time out. She looked at me apolegtically and then walks around to the other side of the apples and walks up to me. She said she was sorry, that she was just trying to distract him thinking if someone else was noticing him throw a fit then he might stop. I appreciated that, but that just isn't Alex. He doesn't really care how he looks to others, (especially a stranger.) - Anyway, it was a pretty awful 8 minutes or so. I did what I had to do, but sure hated it. BUT, in reality - it won't matter where I am, I will still be in charge. And sooner or later, he will realize that. So, I apologize to whoever happen to see me in the Kroger produce area. And I apologize to whoever had to hear Alex scream at the top of his lungs in the WHOLE Kroger store, but rest assured, I was taking care of it.

August 2011

2011-08-09T13:55:00.009-07:00

Bless His Heart.

I hated to do it - but this has gone on since July 8th or so - I had to buy a TENT to go over his crib. He was a little scared tonight - but only cried 5 minutes - so I guess it wasn't too bad. Anyway, he was in a toddler bed for a couple of months - then we went on vacation to my parents - and then to Chris's parents - then when we got home, he didn't want to be in his big boy bed, so we used the pack-n-play for another week - then it had been a FULL.MONTH. I don't like kids being in a pack-n-play more than they have too - so we put the side rail back on the toddler bed. If he was just staying in bed - that would be fine. BUT, he has been getting out of bed and causing my nights to be VERY STRESSFUL and not at all relaxed! He was getting up for nearly an hour every night - it was terrible. So, we got the tent - I put it on the bed, he went to sleep in 5 minutes - it was worth the $60 - EVERY.BIT.OF.IT!

Here's such a sweet picture of him - I just love his sweet smile!

SECOND GRADE!

I can't believe that Mac is starting second grade tomorrow. She was soooo excited to learn that she would have Mrs. Carol Adams as her teacher. She asked me how the first day of second grade was going to be and I told her - "fabulous!" and her reply was - "especially with Mrs. Adams!" She is going to have a great year! I am excited for her to be with some new friends. Although she was a little disappointed because this is her first year without her best friend Abi in her class. They were both very sad! We will have to make sure that we have lots of play dates! I know that she will be stretched this year and challenged with Mrs. Adams and I look forward to her growing and maturing into the little girl that loves her Jesus so much. I can't wait to see what she will come up with next - what chapter books she wants to read and how she will help others in her class. She is definitely a little nurturer and wants everyone to get along. My prayer this year is that she will be who Jesus wants her to be and be a friend to those who need one.

Pictures to come tomorrow - and I'm sure a good story.

She hasn't fussed at me yet for getting a picture here the first day of school, but I'm waiting. :)

This is Mrs. Carol Adams, Mac's new teacher - she is super fun and crazy. They will have a blast this year.

Mac and Abi have been best friends as long as they can remember. It was always easy to have one of them over at teh other's house. Her Momma and I just always clicked and had/have many of the same values. So, is the natural progression of friendship. I know that not being in the same class this year will be an adjustment, but they will both grow into who they need to be. We love Abi and can't wait to continue to watch their friendship and love grow for one another.

When I asked Mac how her first day of school was, she said it was a little crazy. But, she really couldn't give me an answer as to why. She said that Mrs. Adams told jokes and that she was funny. They got to go to Music and PE on the first day! She was excited about that. Mrs. Keese will be gone for a month or so, she had a stint in her heart put in and we are praying for her each night. Mac's prayer last night was that Mrs. Fulmer (computer teacher) would have "time" for them today. She is one of the high school teachers that helps, Mrs. Diles (the high school librarian) get the textbooks checked out for the 7th - 12th graders. This task is NOT easy and is VERY exhausting! (I was Mrs. Diles for the first 2 weeks of school last year.) whew!

July 2011

2011-08-09T13:55:00.007-07:00

Play Dates

We have had quite a few play dates this summer. With us not living in a neighborhood, we have to schedule times for us to be with friends. So, here are a few picture of us with our friends.

June 2011

2011-08-09T13:55:00.005-07:00

Softball Fun! We had lots of fun hot sweaty nights at the ballpark this summer. Alex went to about half the games - but a lot of them were starting past his bedtime - so we had him in bed a few nights when we went out. Mac had a blast and really enjoyed learning more this season.

Coach Tricia and Coach Andrew Baker (we went to college together and his wife, Amy and I played each other in club ball each year!)

Top row: Mac, Alaina, Nino, Kaitlynn, Claire and Maryella
Bottom row : Kennedy, Sofia, Allie, Elizabeth and Alivia

SOFTBALL Fun!
I wasn't going to coach this year, I was only going to take pictures and watch Mac play... but the night of tryouts, Andrew found me in line and asked me to help - because his assistant had to back out. So.... I let Mac pick out the color of the shirts (first green, last year was pink and this year, purple.) - We had lots of fun and she is getting better. This is my absolutely favorite sport, so I hope she continues to play. And don't think I am forcing her to play any of these sports - she asks to play - so I will encourage her. Love.my.girl.

May 2011

2011-08-09T13:55:00.003-07:00

April 2011

2011-08-09T13:55:00.001-07:00

I just love this series of pictures that Cheryl took! So much emotion that day and this says it all.

First official picture of our family of 4 in the eyes of the court - not of our hearts of course.

So glad my sisters could join us today - Somi and Jenny!!!

Two of my best friends and prayer warriors through the 2 year process! Couldn't have done this as easily without them! Kerry and Jennifer

Casey and I were just a "little bit" excited about today - we went through all of the adoption stuff together and our two little ones have the same Adoption Day - special little buddies - A and A.

My family that came to be with us for the adoption -I was so excited to get to spend this special weekend with them!

B-Mom and Papa after it was over - they were trying to get Alex occupied while we did some more paperwork.

Judge Edwards asked McKinley what she thought about getting a little brother - and her answer was so precious - she said, "He's a very nice little brother and I love him!" Everyone was either giggling or crying - so.very.precious.

Our families will always share this special connection - having adopted A and A the same day!

Mac's FIRST SWIM MEET

This is picture is completely embarassing- but I was way up in the stands and didn't have the correct equipment - oh well. This is Mac diving in for her first 50 meter freestyle race. She was doing so great - was in 2nd or 3rd place and when she got to the end of the pool to do a flip turn and then go back - she got out. SHE GOT OUT. Everyone else kept on swimming the race and Mac got out - and walked around looking back at everyone else in the pool - it took her a little bit to realize that she hadn't finished the race. I was in the stands crying - I felt so bad for her. But she finally realized that she needed to complete the race, jumped back in the water and come in NEXT.to LAST. Of course, she was disqualified but she finished! I was so proud of her. Bless her heart - after it was over - I asked her why she did that -she said - she thought it was a 25 meter and no one had told her. oh well. Everyone cheered her on.

Here she is after the meet - she was so proud and sooooo exhausted! She ended up getting a 3rd in the backstroke. This is her BEST stroke. She does like it - but prefers the freestyle stroke. (doesn't everyone?)

March 2011

2011-08-09T13:54:00.005-07:00

February 2011

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January 2011

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December 2010

2011-08-09T13:53:00.003-07:00

November 2010

2011-08-09T13:53:00.001-07:00

October 2010

2011-08-09T13:52:00.003-07:00

September 2010

2011-08-09T13:52:00.001-07:00

August 2010

2011-01-13T19:23:00.003-08:00

Mac has wanted to learn to play the guitar for over a year, so I called the Music Department over at HU and talked with Mr. Chuck. He said she was a little young - but to bring her on. She has LOVED it!! She can read music and sing on key -

Way more than her momma can do! (that's for sure!)

Our first day of school picture!

One proud momma!

McKinley and Abi - best friends holding hands -

Mrs. Barnes her first grade teacher, she was excited to have McKinley in class. I worked with Barbara when I started at HA in 2000.

McKinley started 1st grade this year! She is ready and SuPeR excited!

July 2010

2011-01-13T19:23:00.001-08:00

June 2010

2011-01-13T19:22:00.001-08:00

The long awaited bookshelves custom made by my Daddy.

2010-05-31T12:20:00.000-07:00

Before

During

Complete - I will get more finished pictures up here soon - but Mom was trying to put Alexander on the roof - it was pretty comical - he wasn't quite sure why he was up there.

Papa and B-Mom come for a visit

2010-05-31T11:56:00.000-07:00

Getting to go on top of the roof was a first for McKinley K - she got to climb the ladder adn then walk on the roofline with Papa.

Husband finally used the new grill from his birthday in 2008 - whoo hoo! We had great burgers.

Papa tickling Mac over and over - they finally took a break for a quick picture.

Look at this sweet face - Here he is 13 months old.

Kindergarten Camp Tahkodah

2010-05-29T13:50:00.000-07:00

These pictures are backwards - ugh!! - This is Mac and Andrew on the way back down from the BIG bridge - this thing wobbles the whole time you are on it - especially if a certain little boy shakes it - (andrew!)

Macy and Mac are really good friends - they met playing softball together last summer and then ended up being in the same class and playing ball again together this year!

Andrew and Mac - buds!!

by the waterfall -

One of the things that McKinley was most excited about was collecting the treasures on the nature walk - a special rock, a pinecone, a pretty flower and a neat kind of wood - this is right up Mac's alley - LOVED this!

Walking on the bridge - she was one of the first - with Andrew L. She didn't even wait to go with me - neither did Andrew wait for his mom - we brought up the rear.

I was so excited to get a picture of us - doesn't happen very often.

Jacob Breezeel and Mac have been friends since birth - he is one month younger than her.

The "squirrels"

The Kindergarten class went on May 4 to Camp Tahkodah - this is a beautiful camp about 40 minutes from campus. The kids got to make a craft (binoculars) with Mrs. Kacy Barden, go across the HUGE bridge and on a hike with Mr. Teague (principal), and then decorate a picture frame with Mrs. Carrie Wells. All in all the kids had a great time. They also got to play tug-o-war, go on a "bear hunt", and in the end play kick ball. The snacks were cookies and popsicles at the end of the day. Mac wanted to ride the bus home even though she could have ridden with me. Man, she is JUST like me! So independent, which is good - but really hard on this momma!

April 2010 - Almost caught up!!!

2010-05-12T12:01:00.000-07:00

Husband bought these trees a while back to replace the ones we have lost in a storm/tornado over the past several years.Mac did a great job jumping in to help - not complaining about all the hard work.

Alex looking up at Daddy as he places the cake in front of him.

He wasn't afraid of it at all!!

Yummy!!

love it!

Here comes March 2010

2010-05-11T04:36:00.000-07:00

a little wobbly - beginning to stand on his own - but not yet walking.

my sweet sweet girl!

always laughing.

sneaking up on them.

S and Alex playing together at this church indoor playground - VERY cool.

sweet boy. crawling everywhere. attached to momma.

Three.Precious.Babies. - God blessed us with these 3 for a little while. We were very sad to see C.E. leave - but God is working things out...

Mac saying good-bye to C.E. - she was very sad but Alex helped to distract her!

We had a little visit from Dashawn - he is doing well. He is SUPER tall and oh so sweet.

They were being silly, making each other laugh and just enjoying their precious time together.

Mac lost a tooth!!! - She was very excited! This is her first tooth to be pulled.

Easter bunny loot! and YES, she is in her christmas nightgown.

Easter Bunny loot!

He loves to crawl around making noise with anything that will stand still - today, he has the stick!

Easter - Alex was a little puny and running some temp - so he got to stay at home with Daddy.

February 2010

2010-05-10T19:11:00.001-07:00

At school.

She was very excited about Valentine's Day - she got to wear her heart shirt to school.

McKinley is doing really well in her reading - I love moments like this - Daddy listening to her read -

Sweet baby C.E. - He was finally getting chunky after getting out of the hospital.

Great.Big.Beautiful.Eyes.

Crawling around quite a bit.

Every game the Upward group calls each of the kids' names and everyone cheers for them. It is awesome!!!

Mac ended up doing really well the last 2 or 3 games, she finally understood what to do on defense and offense. Here she is taking the ball from the other team (if you look closely - you will see that most of the team were boys) - she made several shots - she LOVES basketball!

Sweet Alexander - This was the week that we got him back! We love him so much, it hardly even seems that we were apart.

Lovin' my girl in her uniform!

C.E. hanging out under the activity mat - he only liked it part of the time.

Look at this precious face! He is looking right at McKinley - they are so funny together.

Playing at the activity mat - very very silly.

January 2010

2010-05-09T13:16:00.000-07:00

Boxcar Derby!! - Husband and Mac made this all by themselves - when I was in Amarillo with C.E. - I was soooo happy to make it back in time to see the Derby.

Waiting patiently for her turn.

Let's go!

Our first time to make snow ice cream!

It was YUMMY~!

SNOW! SNOW! SNOW! - We've never had so much snow! - We enjoyed playing in the snow.

What a Q-T!

Whoa - slippin' and sliddin' on the snow.

Little C.E. did not go out and enjoy the snow - he enjoyed the warm, cozy house. He is lookin' good - he had been in the hospital in Amarillo for 3 weeks - so we were thankful to be back home.

Our little "superstar!"

McKinley still loves to dress up and play! I love love love this about her! I was so glad to be back home - she really enjoyed just playing at her own house with her own toys.

Still catching up from 2009 - Here's December!!

2010-04-25T15:08:00.000-07:00

The kids all gave her money for a new camera - she was VERY emotional - (she is expecting - but no one knew yet!)

Santa came to visit the class (AKA -Abi's daddy) - Mac knew who it was and kept it a secret from her friends in class.

Sweet little C.E. -this preemie outfit was too big for him - at 6 weeks old (still 7 weeks early)

Ready for her party - in her Pajamas - and her Santa hat!

We were at Granny and Pappy's and Mac got to write her name in the snow - wasn't much for the Panhandle - but was quite a bit for us to see - she had fun anyway!

She was eating the snow !!

Of course, making snow angels is always a hit!

Getting ready for the "Big Unveiling for her class" - The QUEEN!

Mac with Momma and Daddy - Daddy was also a W.A.T.C.H. Dog on this day !!! Very very special for Mac - He got to be in her classroom and go around the school that day!

McKinley was a Queen who was also a momma. When the kids are a Star Student - they get to dress up and have their class guess who they are going to be - (She wanted to be a momma, but when she was trying to figure out how to dress up - she told me that all I wore were jeans and a shirt and that wasn't very exciting) - so, she would be a Queen (which she received for her birthday from Granny and Pappy just a month before) - but she definitely wanted to have a baby as well!

McKinley with her "Favorite" Kindergarten Teacher, Mrs. Carrie Wells! -

What a big girl!

We also went "ice skating" Harding paid to bring in a skating rink - not real ice - but it looked like it - didn't "quite" feel like it either - but Mac had never ice skated before so we decided to give it a try. - We went with our good friends - Caleb, JonDavid and Ali -

C.E. came to us on December 18th - and ended up staying with us through March 8th - He was a preemie that born on Halloween (husband's birthday) and shared his initials. We enjoyed C.E. through the holidays and Mac loved him very much.

November 2009 - It was a little busy...

2010-02-20T11:22:00.000-08:00

Cade come over after school one day - they wanted to play dress up and then for me to please make their pictures - I'm sure one day they will both look back on this and wish I hadn't.

She's a lot like her Daddy - that McKinley - definitely an outside working girl- - - loves to do whatever he is doing - and go wherever he goes as well - she loves to feed the cattle and go on rounds. Daddy loves this about his little girl.

Getting ready for the birthday party -

I was so excited when Mac wanted a rainbow birthday party - she wanted to invited her whole class from school - I was all for it - I think it made Husband a little nervous - but the weather ended up being just beautiful - all the kids just wanted to play outside. We only "scheduled" one thing - the pinata - Mac just wanted to play - one of the favorite things the kids loved was getting their own drinks, we had tea, lemonade and water set up - they could find their cup and fill it up - it was great - They ran around and played in the sand - on the swing and just around the yard -

Daddy was the chief swing pusher - He loved that job - didn't have to socialize with anyone and could just have fun! All the kids loved it!

Getting ready to hit the rainbow pinata!

Happy Birthday to our sweet 6 year old girl!!!

Momma and Daddy with our girl.

Yes! The famous rainbow cake - a lot easier to make than it looks - pretty yummy too!

Mrs. Wells with McKinley at school - she was the birthday girl - she received a "birthday book" from Mrs. Wells.

These are our Christmas card pictures - yes - we still haven't mailed them - so if you are wondering why you didn't get one, it's because we got a newborn baby - then our life went even crazier after that - don't worry - I'm trying for Easter -

She is just SO MUCH FUN! - She brings so much joy to our hearts daily!

Playing with her new birthday toys - I think she wanted some privacy -

The POLAR EXPRESS train ride - we had soooo much fun - she thought she was in heaven - (or really the NORTH POLE!) - The did a great job. We went to Branson for Thanksgiving and really enjoyed ourselves - we have never done that before (just gone off on a little trip just the 3 of us - it was fantastic - I hope there are many more to come.)

We ended up eating at The Cracker Barrel for Thanksgiving Dinner - it was so good - Husband thinks mostly because we hadn't eaten much that day - and we didn't have to prepare or clean up - then we went to Silver Dollar City that evening...

Here we are waiting to get on the train - Mac wore her pajamas - she wanted Chris and I to wear ours as well - but we told her that only the kids would be wearing theirs - WOW, were we wrong - there were all kinds of adults wearing theirs - well, we will know next time.

The train conductor punched out McKinley's initial in her train ticket - just like the book and movie - she was lovin' it!

Look Momma!!! See it?!

THE Santa signing her Polar Express book - she was so very excited - and to tell you the truth- so was I.

Getting a little tired - it was a long trip to the North Pole!

Settle in - this is a tear jerker and quite long:

At school this year - McKinley has been in chapel daily. The sixth graders always have a service project that they are in charge of - this year - CLEAN WATER for Nigeria. Well, a little boy in her class named Sikan is very close to her. His parents are from Nigeria. So, in her six-year-old mind - this is VERY CLOSE TO HOME!

Mac and I were driving to my parents house for her Thanksgiving vacation - it was raining and storming on that friday night - but my sweet girl really wanted to talk - ABOUT the NIGERIAS (aka - Nigerians) She really does have a heart of gold - I am convinced. She began crying and explaining to me that she NEEDED to go to Africa and help them get clean water. She was very upset that 100's of Nigeria's die every year - she wanted to go over there and count the graves of the ones that have died. She wanted me to pull over at that moment and pray for the people and ask God to give them clean water so noone else would die. I told her that I couldn't pull over because of the bad weather - but we could pray - so we did - I was crying as well because her heart just couldn't be any purer than what it was at that moment! After we prayed she wanted to know ways for her to get more money to send to the Nigerias. She was going to EMPTY her piggy banks - (both of them) and send all that money to school - she didn't need it anyway. (her words) She also wanted to know where else she could get money. I explained to her that instead of us going to the dollar store and purchasing for everyone in our family a little gift from her - that we could count up those people and give their $1 to Nigeria. So we did that - she didn't let me forget it either. Then she told me that instead of getting lots of gifts from Momma and Daddy - that she would like to give money instead - she had plenty of things and they really needed clean water.

Well when we got home from Branson- she went and gathered all of her money - I was just amazed at how serious she was! I was also so very proud as a momma! I know that God was even more proud than I was - what a heart of gold. Chris and I constantly pray that she will have a heart of giving - of time, of money and herself. I hope that this beginning is just the beginning of her giving heart!

Butterfly Palace -

Pretty Christmas trees with butterflies on them.

My little explorer.

She is just too fun!

Here Daddy "helped her get this one."

Catching up on October 2009 -

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Friends since birth - JonDavid and McKinley - (they are 10 months apart - and very good buddies) -

They were being so silly!

Hide-n-Seek in the hay - (they both have asthma - but I let them do it anyway)

Jumping in -

Ready,set, go!! - (obviously these pictures are all backwards.)

whoo - hoo!!!

She has such a beautiful smile - doesn't she?

What a cutie!

She wanted me to be finished with pictures -

"Get one of me in here -Mrs. Tricia" - of course I did.

Peeble Farms had this neat old submarine that the kids could get in and look around - they were there quite a long time - a little nervous about going in - but after a "coke/sprite" break, they decided to venture in ...

Pickin' cotton - my grandad used to have a small area in the backyard where he would plant cotton each year - he wanted each of us to know what it was like to pick cotton -

It was quite muddy and mucky - but armed with their boots - they didn't give it much thought.

The sunflowers were already starting to die - but they had enjoyed looking at them anyway.

Mac was a week shy of turning six - and JonDavid was a couple of months shy of seven.

Walking along the tall hay bales.

My friend Leigh Anne took these pictures for me - (Mac and I did them for Husband's birthday.) - He needed an update for his office (last picture of me was nearly 10 years before ---a bridal picture) - Mac's are updated - but we wanted to do one together - We had fun doing these -

Giving Daddy our gifts - Happy Happy Birthday sweet Husband! You are so sweet and very special to us - we love you with all our hearts!

Aunt Sara took McKinley for an afternoon - they of course had to stop at the REDBOX at McDonald's - I drove by to get a picture - yes, a little cheezy - but did it nonetheless.

This is Mac at one of her last soccer games - she was obviously done.

The girls were pretty chilled during the end of the season - most were wearing jackets - they should have worn rainboots - it was so crazy - the fields were just ridiculous!!! I'm not sure that I wore regular shoes all season long.

Mac jumped up in this tree at Mrs. Kaye Baber's house - I was taking some of Jill's senior pictures - and Mac wanted a pic. I'm not sure where she gets it from? (ha)

She dressed up on Halloween (luckily we didn't wear this out in public - just at the house) - She was a combination of Ariel (red wig), Dorothy (red shoes) - they matched you know. And then had to throw in the striped tights with a halloween shirt. She thought she was pretty cute - and well - I would probably agree.

These are backwards - but after our night at Searcy High School halloween carnival - Mac feel completely asleep - definitely worn out!!

Momma and her sweet kitty cat.

Alivia - Pocohontas

McKinley - Kitty Cat

Sweet friends from church -

I'm not even sure what this is from - but I always love a picture of me and my girl!

JonDavid and McKinley - always (well usually) up for a good picture.

Lovely!

Ali Jo and McKinley K- two sweet kitty cats - they didn't even plan it -

Star Wars - Vampire - and two kitty cats -

Zoo Trip for McKinley's kindergarten class - Of all the years that we have been to the Little Rock Zoo - we have NEVER ridden the train there (now I know why - we never missed anything - except our $2) - but they had fun - Emma M., McKinley K., McKinlee B. -

Starting out at the zoo - Abi, McKinley and Emma

Fall Fest - Mac and Abi - friends from birth - friends forever -

Momma and McKinley at Fall Fest - love- love - love this picture (Our first year to get a pic without Daddy - he was in San Antonio at a Cattle Conference)

B-Mom and Papa were here with McKinley at Grandparents' Day at Harding Academy - they came for the whole weekend - the kids sang a song about Grandparents - they got to visit her classroom and see her school and then eat lunch - we had a good day - Thanks for coming!!

Mac and Sikan - (friends from school) - they have lots of fun together. I think that Sikan reminds McKinley a little of Dashawn - what do you think?

Visiting the Fire Station - fun times - they got to squirt a target with the firehose and then climb in and out of the teaching smoke house -

Here she comes out of the smoke house - all safe and sound - they had to climb out of a second story.Go Mac Go!

Buds - Emma and Mac

And again -

We went outside to take Mac's birthday invitation pictures - she had fun in this skirt - I bought it for pictures - but of course - she got to use it first! She LOVED that it swished as she walked and danced!

Just beautiful - I can't believe that she is about to be six years old!

September 2009

2010-01-24T15:54:00.000-08:00

Soccer is so much fun!!! She loves running up and down the field -

Go Mattie Grace and McKinley K !!!!

Getting a little drink during a break - she was pretty much filthy all season long!

This is an itty bitty frog that she found -

This is the itty bitty frog that she has now kept - and is now in her room.

August 2009

2010-01-24T14:56:00.000-08:00

This is Jaylen - we only had him for 3 weeks - but he sure was sweet!!

We always take a picture of McKinley holding the new baby - she had just been in school about 1 1/2 weeks when we got the call to take Jaylen - He was pretty little as well.

Mac on her first day of school - she was SO excited! Momma had a really hard time - I didn't stay home that whole week - I just didn't want to be there without her - I stayed in town each each day.

Aunt Sara came to put up corn with McKinley and myself - so when we were finished - they took a swim -

Yeah!! Fresh corn for the winter - I love that we do this each summer!!

She is trying soooo hard to shuck the corn!

To see the pictures better-----

2010-01-23T11:59:00.001-08:00

You can double click on the image and it will enlarge -

The end of July -

2010-01-23T08:16:00.000-08:00

We had fun at my parents' house at the end of July - we went to the waterpark in Canton - Mac, Evan, S and Ella had a blast - as did their momma's. We played at the lake and ate a lot of food - and just had fun together - Ruby and Raney had lots of holding and they were so much fun - growing like crazy!! Here are a few pics to share from that week -

More of July -

2010-01-23T07:48:00.000-08:00

This summer- McKinley had her friend, Alivia spend the night- they slept in the tent (not very long) - both exhausted the next day - we also went to WillowSprings in Little Rock - it was a lot of fun - there were 7 or 8 ladies who took our kids - it was GREAT!!!! -

Mac also had this crazy wig from Halloween - she was Ariel - so one day she decided to wear it to town- she even wore a cherry dress to match - ha! I didn't say anything - but once we got to the Doctor's office - she decided that other people may not recognize her - so she took the wig off. - It was pretty funny!!

Playing catch up - July 2009

2010-01-22T13:27:00.000-08:00

This was our visit to Chris's parents - Alexander had just turned 3 months old - it was the 4th of July - Chris and myself decorated McKinley's bike for the fun parade - We all had a great time!! Mac got to go to the Spearman pool and play on the slide - she LOVED it so much- what a brave swimmer - it was a little chilly for Momma - but I did swim for awhile (sorry or you're welcome - there are NO pictures of me in a swimsuit) -

More fun with an extra...

2009-06-26T06:59:00.001-07:00

Dashawn came to play with us this a.m. - we had a great time!!

D is doing a stick dance here - shouting as loud as he can (which is pretty loud) - TRACTOR!! TRACTOR!! TRACTOR!! It was pretty funny.

Mac getting ready to jump in the pool.

Evan and D can touch- they had a great time spashin' in the water - it was a VERY HOT day - so it was great.

Little man is growing more and more each time I see him - such a light in our life.

A little fun...

2009-06-26T06:47:00.000-07:00

S loved the horse-

S wasn't real sure about finger painting -

Mac still knows how to get as dirty as possible!

McKinley holding little Alex - she loves him so.

She loves the little kid picnic table.

Havin' fun in the playhouse - sweet smile.

Mac caught a big one~

2009-06-02T19:16:00.001-07:00

McKinley needed a "little" help from Papa to reel this baby in - she was so excited~

Papa was weighing it and when he said it weighed 6.8 ounces then then her face looked like the picture below - so funny!

Big 'ole fish!

mud pies and popsicles

2009-06-02T18:48:00.001-07:00

We got a new picnic table - so we had to try it out - the kids loved it -

Of course - it was sooo hot outside that we had to have yummy popsicles!

A little mud to add to our water sprinkler fun - the kids had a blast - they were kicking each other and I was just praying that they didn't get it in their eyes...

Loads of fun... loads of laundry... oh well, these are the times that they will remember - they will probably remember being hosed off in the cold, cold water by B-Mom too.

Momma, it's beautiful...

2009-06-02T06:33:00.000-07:00

McKinley saw this sign and knew it was Camp Wyldewood - she was so excited!!!

These are her friends - Maria and Jacob - Maria is from school and Jacob is from church - they are only 3 weeks apart -
I took this picture yesterday morning when I dropped her off - clean and ready for the day -

This is her getting off the bus - she wanted to ride the bus to and from camp - so this sweet momma let her - I do know the bus driver personally - so I felt a little better about it - afterall - they are riding around town without seatbelts on - oh - my!

She ran off the bus waving hi to me - she loved every minute of it - from swimming to lunch to the outside playground - that was "oh, so much fun, momma." She liked doing it all on her own.

This is closer picture of her - she was filthy from head to toe - and was exhausted!! They had rest time and I forgot to send a blanket - shame on me... - but she shared with Maria (thanks, Chris for raising such a sharing girl) - anyway - she took a blanket on tuesday - she took her rest time seriously - they had to wake her up!

I know that she will love camp as much as I did - and I am excited as she is getting older and able to really experience life!!

I finally got to meet my nieces - Ruby and Raney

2009-05-19T12:00:00.000-07:00

Ruby Jean - the smaller of the girls - but definitely the fighter.

She wasn't real happy with me here -

Raney Jo - so sweet - looking right at me - knowing she needed to be still.

Tired of all the pictures...

McKinley and S playing piano - what fun music at Papa and B-Mom's house - After awhile - we have to close the lid on the instrument so our heads don't explode.

Girls - Raney on left and Ruby on right.

Me and one of my brothers -

Jenny and her sweet girls - Ruby on left and Raney on right.

The 3 musketeers - Ruby- Alex - Raney - just 5 weeks apart -

Celebrating Grandad's 80th birthday -

McKinley's hero this weekend - Uncle Jeff rescued her from the lake after she fell in - she held tight to the fishing pole and kept on kicking - Jeff couldn't believe how fast she got to the top - it wouldn't have been so traumatic except that the water was sooooo cold. Papa and Uncle Jeff got her to safety quick - she was fine until she heard my voice -asking her if she was okay - then she started crying all over again. You know you've been there. - Waiting for Momma or Daddy to grab hold of you and know you are okay.

S looking at Alex - can't decide what to do - kiss him or just look at him...

These two are an absolute joy and definately a mess when put together. They love being outside and can be found getting dirty together, helping Papa keep the place clean - by throwing rocks and bricks in the lake - getting way too close to the water (at least for their momma's) and also running around needing B-Mom to play with them. This will be a fun summer - especially when you add S to the mix and once the twins are big enough - watch out lake - here we come!!

My niece - Ella - she is such fun - I was going to post a picture of her momma and McKinley and myself - so that you can see some similarities -

Look what I made?

2009-04-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

Pillowcase dresses - I've been making 'em like crazy - so much fun and VERY, VERY simple...

Well......

2009-04-29T14:53:00.001-07:00

She told me this afternoon that she wanted her shorter - AFTER the FACT....

Can you believe my 5 year old got ahold of scissors ????? She's never done this before - the funny thing was - I wasn't even mad - just pretty much laughed - BUT she hadn't seen herself yet, so when I had her look in the mirror - she BURST into tears - what she didn't want - was me telling her hairdresser what she had done - when I made the call to Mrs. Renea - she went into hysterics - lovely - can't wait for tomorrow when we have to see her face to face and get it fixed. I know, I know, I know what you're thinking it's not that bad - and it's not - it's just that she has her PRE-K graduation tomorrow night -

OH well - I know there will be many more things like this...

2009-04-29T14:45:00.000-07:00

Sweet baby Alex...

Proud big sister!!

LOVE this onesie!

Look who is learning to...

2009-04-29T14:38:00.001-07:00

READ!!! -

She wanted to learn to read - and she was definately determined - we started on Monday, April 6 - little did we know that Alex was being born that day and would enter our family the very next day.

She is doing great - In just four short sessions - she went through 74 pages in the Hooked On Phonics reader and has read eight of their books - but what is even greater - is that she is getting other books and sounding out the words - we are soooooo proud of her!!!

you know - dark skinned

2009-04-06T18:14:00.000-07:00

I snapped this at his adoption hearing in March - His daddy is holding him and he kept turning around to look at me - I thought that this was just PRECIOUS!! - How we love this boy! - 26 months old -

With Mommy Tricia -

He was about 16 months old here -

This is right before he left - in August Kisses from Daddy

McKinley - "Momma - I wish that I was dark skinned - "
Momma - "you do? "
McKinley - "yes - I wish you, daddy and me all had dark skin like Dashawn."
Momma - "God made us who we are and we have to be happy with how he made us."
McKinley - "I know - I just wish I was like him."

We had just run into Dashawn at Wal-mart - totally unexpected - this is the first time it has happened - he has been gone for nearly 8 months - She was caught a little offguard - she/we had a meltdown in the middle of wal-mart - so if you saw us - she wasn't in trouble - just missing her brother - and wanted him back - you know right then. Bless her heart - she was sobbing for about 20 minutes - I picked my big 5 1/2 year old up and just held her - both of us had tears streaming down our faces - it is SO hard to see your child that heartbroken.

Once we got to the car - I just told her to cry as long and as loud as she wanted - that it was okay to cry and okay to be upset - I think she was a little shocked that I told her to do it LOUD!! -

Well, what else is a momma supposed to do???

I know I shouldn't lie to my daughter, but...

2009-03-16T11:38:00.000-07:00

I had to! We are surprising her with a trip to Disneyworld - that's right - she knows NOTHING about it - we leave in less than 2 days - 4:30 a.m. on Wednesday and I HAD to start packing! I can't do it all when she was in bed - so that leads to the lie - I decided to ask Aunt Sara if I could tell Mac she would be staying with her a couple of days while Husband and myself went on a little trip - at first Mac said that she wanted to go with us - but then decided that Aunt Sara's would be LOTS of fun! She wanted to help me pack her suitcase - so that's what we did - she was wondering why she needed her water shoes - I just told her that you never know what you might do with Aunt Sara - and so she didn't question me. Luckily she didn't see me sneak the Cinderella dress in the bag!! Tomorrow is a LONG day of her activities and then we get home and basically go to bed - because we need to be out the door by 4:30 a.m. - YEAH!!! We are going to wake her up to tell her that morning - I am planning to video it - I don't want to miss the reaction on her face - of course - if she would rather stay with her Aunt Sara than go to DISNEYWORLD with her daddy and momma then that will be up to her - So, if you see us tomorrow in town - PLEASE!!!! PLEASE!!! don't say anything - we only have one more day left of this crazy secret!

Do you think she will forgive me for not telling the truth?? Man, I hope so.

tk

When you grow up...

2009-03-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

This is what McKinley told me over the weekend. "When you grow up - you don't get to live at home anymore - you have to go live in a tree house, you live with another family. So, since I'm grown up, I will just go live in my tree house in my backyard - you know, I have a tree house- it's in the backyard in my fort."

Marriage?

2009-02-01T15:42:00.000-08:00

Daddy - Are you going to get married one day?
McKinley - Yes, I am.
Daddy - To who? Will his name be Chris?
McKinley - No, Daddy - you already have a wife - it's Mommy.
Daddy - Well, who are you going to marry?
McKinley- I don't know - God will send me who he has picked out for me.

Mommy - crying on the couch - (I keep praying that she will continue to think like this-)
and I keep praying for her future spouse - May he love God as much as she does!!

2009-01-20T14:06:00.000-08:00

Look at these sweeties!!!

McKinley - 5 years

Sakari - 10 months

Evan - 2 1/2 years

Catching up...

2009-01-17T14:08:00.000-08:00

McKinley loves to play Strawberry Shortcake - cooking show - she LOVES it!!!

McKinley took this of me doing Allyson Feather's bridal pictures - she thought she did pretty good.

McKinley and her friend, Cade playing Ariel the human and Ariel the mermaid - anything goes at Mrs. Tricia's - if you have an imagination - then go for it!!! - By the way - his momma wanted me to take this pic -

McKinley and Bri Rampey had a fun time playing together.

Abi and McKinley -best friends since they were walking -

A merry little Christmas - in Arkansas?????

2008-12-31T13:52:00.000-08:00

McKinley was so excited to see "snow" on the ground -

She was using her sand shovel to dig ice out -

This is our friend "Elfin" who came out every morning to surprise McKinley and then tell Santa if she was good or bad that day. - We had lots of fun with him.

The BEST hot chocolate ever made - direct quote from McKinley

McKinley telling Santa what she wanted for Christmas - princess baby and princess slippers

I get to do WHAT???

2008-12-31T13:20:00.000-08:00

B-Mom had an idea to let McKinley do a Build-A-Bear for her Christmas present this year - so while B-Mom and Papa came for the weekend - we headed to Little Rock - we had her close her eyes and she had NO IDEA what was in store for her!

I really couldn't capture the surprise she felt on the inside - it was like she really didn't know what to think of it - she hasn't ever gotten to do this before - it's always been a "looking" store - not one you actually get to do - she still hasn't had the experience of Chuck E. Cheese's either - but anyway -she just kind of stood there in "awe" of the place - and when B-Mom told her she got to do it - she wasn't quite sure what it meant.

She had to make sure she picked the "right" one. - Here they are comparing the puppies.

I will spare you all the pictures I took while getting our puppy - but she really enjoyed giving her puppy a bath.

"Ariel" as we call her is already dressed - she is so funny looking - yet cute. McKinley is very proud of her puppy. - Thanks B-Mom and Papa - she loved spending the time with you.

A little help from Papa

2008-12-31T12:49:00.000-08:00

This is how the weekend started off for my McKinley - her Papa reading her a Christmas story.

Then she got to "help" Papa - and what I mean by this is bug, bother, pester and tickle him -

My shower doors came off and we just have a shower curtain - YIPEE!!! -can you tell I'm excited? I mean, really, I took pictures of this GRAND event. - Thanks - Daddy and HUSBAND!

Isn't he handsome?! - My Daddy is one of the most handy men I know.

She really did end up helping Papa hold a flashlight in a very tiny space.

Gingerbread house -

2008-12-30T16:48:00.000-08:00

Did you know that some of the houses come already put together? I did not know this - it took a little fun out of it - but of course, McKinley enjoyed decorating it the most.

McKinley is really into taking pictures - Smile, Mommy!! -

Here she goes -

Careful now...

McKinley took another one - I can't complain that I never have birthday pictures - now I just wish that I looked 10 years younger and about 30 lbs. lighter. - oh well,

Of course - my sweet Tinkerbell card from Mac-a-roo.

Princesses anyone??

2008-12-30T14:08:00.001-08:00

She loves getting cards from people - especially singing ones...

And you know that princesses dance...

The Queen and her Princess -

Aren't they beautiful?

If you called to wish McKinley a Happy Birthday - then this is probably what she looked like -

She kept saying - this doesn't look like a castle - Momma - will it look like a castle?

She helped me get things ready for her own party- I will never. again. have a late afternoon party for a five.year.old. - it was too much for her - all.that.waiting.

Finally a finished product - 7 layers later - whew!!!

My daughter - 5 years - it's hard to believe -

2008-12-30T13:47:00.000-08:00

Birthday Surprises!!

2008-12-27T12:18:00.000-08:00

McKinley really did a lot this year in making Chris's cake -

She was very proud as well - do you see her apron? We have matching ones that my aunt made

McKinley drew a map for Husband to follow - the house is the one with the windows - and the barn doesn't have any - also in the sky are the stars - we were going to do this scavenger hunt after trick-or-treating - so it was going to be dark -

Birthday boy has to share his special day with the Halloween fun.

McKinley is doing a great job in taking pictures.

Daddy got a Star Wars card from McKinley -

McKinley had drawn a map for Husband to follow - she did a great job - he had to go on a hunt to find his present - it was in the barn...

It was a NEW GRILL!

Whoo!! Hoo!! - I love it - he was so surprised! He had no idea what he was getting.

Daddy looking at his new fancy grill.

Lots of tickle time.

McKinley decorated this - and then we added bunches of candles.

Helping Daddy blow out the candles on the cake that McKinley made for him.

The.Little.Mermaid

2008-12-27T12:03:00.000-08:00

Cinderella was so excited to see her princess friend Ariel - (Ali Jo and McKinley)

Dragon - Cinderella - Ariel - Ghost

Momma and her Princess

A CRAZY amount of candy -

Ariel and Lightening McQueen on the Searcy square.

The Strawberry Shortcake birthday at the lake

2008-12-27T11:13:00.000-08:00

McKinley is wearing her new strawberry shortcake hat

Mac wasn't really in the mood to have her picture taken with me anyway...

You gotta love this sweet look - she is so in love with her Daddy - as is her momma.

She wanted to fish with Papa that night - she did and got this HUGE fish all by herself -then she ran up to the house while Papa held it - she wanted me to come get a picture of it - when I got down to the dock - she wasn't real thrilled with getting next to it -

My sweet nephew - Evan - he likes his thumb - same as his cousin - Mac.

A little fun in Shreveport - - -

2008-12-27T10:37:00.000-08:00

On the float for the Arkansas Cow Convention - Beefmasters -

Daddy, Papa Doc and Gran Staggs, Momma and of course- McKinley

Someone at the Mardi Gras parade gave McKinley princess slipper beads - she was so excited!!

Daddy and Mac - getting ready.

Mommy and McKinley

She was very excited to play with all the beads

Pumpkin Patch 2008

2008-11-10T12:09:00.000-08:00

Momma and McKinley -

Posing -

Walking along...

The Whole Gang - our kids are growing up so fast.

She found the perfect one.

Fun tractor ride

Feeding the goats Pretty - Pretty Sunflower

Cinderella - she still loves her.

McKinley took this picture - she's getting quite good.

My sweet girl doesn't always want her picture taken.

Mac and Ali Jo -

Most of the kids - some weren't here yet and others didn't want in it -

A few random things....

2008-11-08T08:43:00.000-08:00

Yes - this is me at my parents wedding in 1987 -

This was a wedding I shot in October - it just reminded me of when my parents got married and blended our families - though it's been so long ago - it's hard to remember the before part!

McKinley found this frog one night - she wanted to touch it - but didn't.

Open House for Carpenter's Kids - aka Pre-K

2008-11-08T08:29:00.001-08:00

Mac being silly with a noise maker -

This is McKinley and "McKinley" - the person she made for Open House -

This is Miss Kristi - one of her favorite teachers -

McKinley and Emma - good friends - even though they are 2 years apart -

This is Miss Lisa - the other favorite Pre-K teacher.

Abi and Mac at school together this year - though not in the same class - but still best friends.

Soccer in Searcy -

2008-11-08T07:46:00.000-08:00

She is trying to count on her fingers up to 7 here -

She is telling me that she has 6 goals now - she did this after EVERY. SINGLE. GOAL. - what a character!! I was so proud - but almost a little embarresed - she wouldn't share the ball - not even with her teammates.

A little action - do you see her tongue - this is how you can tell how hard she is playing..

Jon David after he finished his game - Mac was in the process of making 8 goals that day - I think she had gotten 4 or 5 by this time.

This is McKinley's friend Mattie Grace - I have known her momma a long time - and the girls were put on the same soccer team - they have really become fast friends - they are also our StoryTime buddies at the Library on Wednesdays.

Catching up on over a month now... October

2008-11-08T07:24:00.000-08:00

McKinley's first birthday of the season for her 5th - loving the expression on her face

Bond's great idea of letting the birthday girl take the first bite from her cake - yummy!! Cake anyone?

My niece Bond Grace- wanted some senior pictures done - it had rained for a couple of days - so there was lots of water in the ditches - so this is beautiful Bond -

and here is Tricia after the pics- it was FREEZING out there - but we got some great shots - and had lots of fun !!!

A song

2008-10-10T06:12:00.000-07:00

I'm not really sure how many people even read this blog ~ not that it really matters, but I am needing some help. I am looking for that perfect "song" for my photography website. I really have no idea where to go with this - I don't listen to much music that isn't on a kids praise cd ~~~~ so, if you have any suggestions I would love to have them. The song does need to be easy to listen to ~ Thanks -

Jesus loves the little children of the world

2008-10-09T13:11:00.000-07:00

Let me start by saying this. There have been several of us up at church who have been painting a classroom with children (about 3 years old to be exact) and the words on the wall are to the song of Jesus loves the little children of the world. So, we obviously have all different kinds of children represented. The kids in Bible class LOVE them. We had a little extra time last night (as they were all trying to stay awake) - it is PAST their bedtime you know. I had the kids show me a child that they thought looked like them. Children are soooo innocent and it was a precious sight, I'm sure Jesus himself was looking down on our sweet children and smiling last night. Each of the children found a child that didn't really "look" like them. Some of the kids picked something specific out - color of clothes that matched theirs that night, sometimes color of hair, but not the skin, none of the children have glasses, but a certain child picked him anyway. The light skinned children picked dark skinned kids and vice versa - they were just precious. Just remember that children do not notice things of this nature - they are looking at other things - as we should be doing.... Jesus does love all the children of the world.

I know...

2008-10-09T13:09:00.000-07:00

Momma: McKinley, did you know I love you?
McKinley: Yes, (dramatic) you tell me all the time.
Momma: I know, I just don't want you to forget.
McKinley: I can't forget, and you don't have to tell me all the time. You can just tell me in 5 more hours.

Her thoughts on time are just so sweet. I love her so much!!!!

Just like yours, Mommy

2008-09-24T11:54:00.000-07:00

Okay, I don't usually tell on myself, but in case you haven't laughed today, I thought you might enjoy one on me. This morning, McKinely came around the corner and said, "Look Mommy, my leg shakes just like yours (as she points to my bottom) - AHHHH! Thank you very much. I love how children are so honest.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
We have two foster children from our church that we are taking care of. We were all at a certain small grocery store here in my town and we were checking out. Here is what happened to me. I have the 11 month old girl in the front of the cart, 2 year old boy in the back of the cart and McKinley is walking beside me.
The lady checking out says to me, "Are you babysitting?"
Me: "No, why do you ask?"
Lady: Uh, uh, uh, I don't know, I just thought, I uh,........
Me: I am a foster parent.
Lady: They are uh, beautiful.
Me: Yes, they are. Thank you.

Let me just say that they are NOT that much darker than me, don't look that much different than me - what if I had adopted them? What if my husband was of a different nationality? Some people just annoy me - I mean come on - BE NICE and respectful. Thank goodness these children didn't "get it" yet!! But in a few years, they will!

This hasn't happened to me in such a long time - so it just really bothered me. I know that when we had Dashawn, people did ask us in the beginning about him - was I babysitting - but they never really asked if I had adopted him. If you can't think something nice - then at least keep it to yourself.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Another funny story on me:

My mom, sister, nephew and my 2 kids, McKinley and Dashawn were all eating out on a Wednesday night before church. At this establishment, kids eat free when a parent buys a meal. So, we were talking and I told my sister. I'm sure if someone brought a bunch of kids in here that didn't look alike, then they might question them and not let the kids eat free. As I said this, my sweet, sweet sister looked at me and said - "What, because your two kids look alike." - I started laughing and thought - oh yeah - my kids are COMPLETE OPPOSITES! Oh well. Obviously when you love someone and they are part of your family - color and other things just don't matter!

I'll take the girl....

2008-09-18T08:28:00.000-07:00

We are taking care of two little ones for two weeks. Yes, I know that we said we were taking a break - but a foster family from church were going on vacation and they have the babes because the original foster family left for Africa for a few months. So, we are all helping each other out. These kids have been at our church since birth and I really didn't want to see them split up - it's hard to take in two little ones - especially when they are almost 2 years and 11 months. Dillon and Mariah are very sweet natured kids. They are very calm and enjoying being together. Dillon and McKinley LOVE playing outside together. He loves riding the tractor with McKinley and playing in the sandbox.

When I told McKinley we were going to take care of the kids for a few weeks, she said that she would take care of the "girl" because she wants a sister. (as if I didn't already know that!) And that I could take care of the boy. Now she wants to keep both of them, but if she had a choice, she would rather just have Dashawn back, she really loves him and wants him not to be adopted by the new family, but our family. AHHHH! This is the hardest part. I feel totally at peace with Dashawn being with his new family - but still miss him like crazy. I walk by his picture and think about what he is doing now. I love that wild little man!!! It's not as hard for me as I thought it would be... taking another set of foster children, although I think because I know it is short term and that I will be seeing them at church and know where they are.

Will you just please say a little prayer for McKinley? - I know she is fine, but she really really wants another sibling. I do know that she has enjoyed having me to herself though. We have played Candy Land at 9 a.m. - which would have NEVER been possible with Dashawn around - he would have torn up the pieces. She likes reading big girl books and not having to share me either. She is such a blessing to our family and we are grateful for her! God knows just what we need and he is taking care of us - I am believing this always....

Soccer - Peachy green

2008-09-15T10:16:00.000-07:00

This was her 2nd goal - I was so into the
first one that I didn't get a picture!

Get it in, girl!!
I got one Mom!!
Waiting patiently for instructions. The playing field was a lot more even this year - 3 & 4 year olds - not 5's! She loved (most) every minute of it - she and
Maddie Grace don't get a break because there
are only 4 players. The 2 little girls (who just turned 3)
need more time to rest.

Maddie Grace is there beside her - #4 - Mac is #5 - because when she has her birthday - that's how old she will be. (her words, not mine)
YES! she got another one!

McKinley loves soccer - she really got into this year - she made 4 goals on Saturday - I didn't realize she stuck her tongue out as she was running and chasing the ball - (concentrating). But apparently she does - it's (tongue) most pictures. You can tell when she made a goal - she was SO excited. The look on her face was priceless! She made 2 goals within the first 5 minute quarter - then 2 more by the end of the game. It was so fun to watch my little girl be so proud of herself. Of course, her Daddy and I were proud of her too!

Peppermints to go

2008-09-02T13:11:00.000-07:00

Husband came home about 4:30 from working with the cows - McKinley had been waiting to go with him to the farm since - oh, 7:30 that morning, so she was so excited when he said - "let's go!" He came in and asked me to go as well, so for the first time in 20 months, I went to the farm with Husband and Mac. She asked if I wanted any peppermints - we don't really know where she got this idea - but for a long time now she gets peppermints to take with her while going to the barn or around the barn. She gets so excited! Husband doesn't really know why - but I'm sure it's because I don't ever let her have any! She loves getting up in the truck by herself - she gets to fill the water buckets and be so independent. I didn't know she was doing all this - but was amazed at how hard she worked - carrying the water to fill up the buckets for the cows. She opened the gate and learned how to lock it. Secretly, she just wants to be with her Daddy - I don't think it would matter what they were doing...

We stopped at a neighbor's house to pay for some hay baling that was done. Husband told the gentleman that his daughter was in the truck waiting on him, but he didn't seem to mind - we were there for 30 minutes - good thing we had a magazine to read - and watch the chickens walk around. Mac started cook-a-doodling loudly - trying to get their attention - I was hoping the whole time that her Daddy would hear and get moving. He did come back to say that he was thankful to hear McKinley - but it didn't do us any good - he was still another 15 minutes - oh well, we are thankful for old farmers who help us out...

Oh yeah - and they are BOTH trying to talk me into getting a puppy. I will keep you updated on this -
I think that this is why I was asked to come along - because next we went to Mrs. Lovey's house- she's the one with the puppy named Joey - Mac got down and Joey ran to her and played the whole time we were there. He is a sweet dog - I know they are both trying to sucker me in-

We're doing fine...

2008-08-27T11:03:00.000-07:00

Things are as we expected.

It's hard to see the last door on the right opened each night - that's where he slept. It seems strange to be able to be loud at 7:30 pm because he isn't trying to get to sleep. I still haven't taken down the booster seat - I just can't do it yet. The bed will stay up - it's too much work to take down - so there it will be for anyone who visits to use.

Here are some things that I really miss - 1. his hugs 2. Him saying yes 'mam 3. going to the fridge saying "pease, pease!" wanting more milk. 4. him chasing McKinley 5. the laughter of McKinley and him after playing outside or riding the tractor 6. me saying - "Dashawn - leave your stick outside." 7. Him running to the door yelling, "Daddy, Daddy." when McKinley tells him that Daddy is home.

These things are tough - but there are some things I haven't missed -
1. purchasing diapers 2. fit throwing 3. having to change diapers.

But, I am still finding his "things" all over the house - the shirt that didn't get packed, the ball under the couch, old pacifiers under "his bed" - we miss him. It makes our hearts hurt - but we also know he is doing well. I have talked with his mom just about everyday. She calls with questions - who knew I knew so much?! It is VERY different going from two children to one - you really aren't supposed to downsize - only add them - right?

While McKinley, B-Mom and I were in Louisiana this past weekend - McKinley's mind started racing - that night in bed - she began to miss her Daddy and her Dashawn, she cried a little and just wanted to go home- all I could do was hold her and cry as well - she didn't know it because all could say was, "I know, baby, I miss them too." Of course I am crying as I sit here typing on the computer - I guess this is good for my soul...

We received word that there is yet another newborn baby needing care -and guess what? It's a girl. Can you believe it? McKinley has been wanting a baby girl ever since Dashawn left - BUT, we are having to pass for now - there hasn't been enough time. We (I) are thinking at least until after the Christmas holidays - we have many things going on and a busy semester with McKinley - this is her last year before she begins Kindergarten and we don't want to miss a moment of it.

Thank you for thinking about us and praying for us. We have certainly felt the sadness lifted and known that Our God is stronger and able to carry us through.

another one...

2008-08-19T08:24:00.000-07:00

Last night I was putting McKinley to bed- normally her Daddy does this - but he had seen her that day, taking her to a friend's house while I was at the hospital with Dashawn getting his circumcision. All that to say, I usually don't get to listen in on their bedtime prayers. I said the prayer last night because McKinley has been a little sad lately and didn't want to do it. The prayer included Dashawn's new family and our transition over the next few days. After the prayer, McKinley said, "I don't want Dashawn to go." I know.... but they are so excited to get him. "Well, I want a little sister like Abi." I said, we will take what God gives us. "Well, if I don't get a sister, and I get a brother, well, if he's a dark brother (where did this come from???) then we will just name him Dashawn, even if he's not a dark brother, maybe a little lighter, I will still name him Dashawn, well Momma - even if he is PINK, I will name him Dashawn, I hope he is pink!" - Good night McKinley. As I left the room chuckling to myself, I thought, she is going to be okay - BUT in her mind, only if we get another sibling!!

Don't worry, we are taking a break - we really have enjoyed loving and taking care of Dashawn, but we are going to concentrate on McKinley for her last year before she begins school. I love being a momma - but this momma wants to be with her baby!!

The new family is coming to get Dashawn around 4:15 tomorrow! Please continue praying for us... there will be many tears and I'm sure that they will be flowing from these hazel eyes...

My new look

2008-08-17T12:39:00.001-07:00

Don't you just love my new look on the blog? Blogs by danielle has created them for me. I am so excited! Visit her online at www.blogsbydanielle.com if you would like your blog to have a new look. Thank you so much, Danielle.

I gotta get my dancin' out!!

2008-08-03T12:26:00.001-07:00

McKinley and I were watching "So you think you can dance!" - and she was talking about all of the girls pretty dresses - or lack there of - Then she started dancing (the white way- totally unlike Dashawn) - she asked me to take pictures of her dancing and politely told me she had to get her dancin' out. I cracked up - where did she get that from? I have no idea!!! I had called Granny P to tell her about Dashawn and McKinley wanted to have her turn - so I handed the phone over - it lasted all of 3 minutes and then she told Granny - "I have to go know - I've gotta get my dancin' out! Crazy crazy girl. She just makes us laugh sometimes.

Momma Gena and Trey

2008-07-31T16:15:00.001-07:00

WOW! ~ Sometimes there are just not words to express how a meeting goes. You can see from the pictures that EVERYONE got along just fine. Gena called on Tuesday night - wanting to see Dashawn the very next day - she couldn't stop thinking about him. (of course not - with his cute face and loud personality) - So, we set it up for a one hour visit at our house (I knew that it would be longer - it was from 10 - 3:30) - the kids played in the sandbox, swam in the pool and played inside, I fed them grilled cheese sandwiches and fruit. Trey and McKinley had the best time - of course Trey thought they were taking Dashawn home that very day - and McKinley doesn't want him to leave at all!!! Gena put Dashawn down for nap and was there when he woke up - they played and tickled and really enjoyed getting to know one another better. We have already planned a full day and night visit and also a weekend visit for the next weekend. We both want Dashawn to be ready and happy to go for visits and get to know their family. We aren't rushing him and feel that this is the best way to transition him - It was just so wonderful. She looked at his baby albums over and over the whole time she was here and was asking about all the pictures and things he has done. It was so nice to be able to have this ready for her and her really cherish them. She has also asked me to take their family picture once everything is settled and they are all together. (WOW!) - I will post pictures now - I know everyone is excited to see what Dashawn's new family looks like. (and tired of reading my thoughts!)

Well....

2008-07-29T13:42:00.000-07:00

the visit was GREAT! The family was so warm and sweet. Despite the HOT temperatures at the park, the kids had a good time. C and G (parents) really seemed to hit it off with Dashawn. They all connected quickly. Their son, T and McKinley had lot of fun too - they were chasing these poor little frogs all over the place and trying to have them race. They were too cute - both the older kids were really taking things in - talking about adopting him and wanting to take him today - McKinley just listened as she always does - taking things in - she got in the car after the visit and said that she liked the family - but didn't want Dashawn to leave. We talked about how nice Mrs. G was and that they have been praying for a son - she said, "well, they already have one baby - that boy!" - I know....

G and I hit it off in about 5 minutes - by the end of the hour - we were both crying and hugging and knowing that this is going to be hard - they want us to be a part of his life (as much as we want) and I have already invited them over for a morning swim (before the placement takes place) - you might be thinking that it sounds too good to be true and maybe I am rushing things a bit - but I kid you not - when you make a connection and you know that OUR God is the master of all plans and you know that OUR God has brought us all together - things are never rushed.

Thank you for all of your prayers and your support! Thank you for reading my comments and listening to my heart. I will keep you posted as I know more - due to other circumstances - we are NOT rushing this placement - they will do several day visits. You see, she's a foster mom to another 16 month old boy and he won't leave until Aug. 20th - she also scrapbooks and we talked about the albums I have made for him. She seemed very thankful.

God is good and I know that HE has plans for Dashawn... we were just part of the beginning.

Little Man

2008-07-25T10:40:00.000-07:00

We have received the call that we have been waiting for since February of this year. There is a family who wants a visit with Little Man. This has been an answer to prayer and though it is certainly going to be DIFFICULT to let him go - I know that we have loved him like our own and are excited for him. Of course, he has NO IDEA what is coming and neither does McKinley - even though I'd like to think that we have/will prepare her for this. How can we as parents prepare a four-year-old sister for this experience - to just let her brother go to another family - this is all either of them remember. And since this choice was made by her parents and not her - she won't be happy about it!! The Lord is in control - thank goodness- or there would be NO WAY that we could do this. I am happy, sad, anxious and all at the same time - ready. I am ready for him to be settled. I pray that this family is the one that God has intended for all time and that this is HIS timing that is bringing them together. God has GREAT plans for this little boy - (who will be 19 months on Sunday) - wow - what a journey - what a blessing. And can you believe they live right here in White County??! Who knows - We might run into them at Wal-Mart one day or see him playing soccer on Saturdays or see his name in the paper for having straight attendance - or let's get serious - see him playing on TV - one of his many favorite sports - and to think that we had some tiny impact on his life in the beginning... the very beginning. I can't write anymore - I will start weeping - and I have to get a shower - because I have a hot date with my favorite husband (well I only have one husband!)

TK

Porch talks

2008-07-22T08:35:00.000-07:00

McKinley placed her Bible on my bookshelf one day - it was so sweet

Having fun at VBS - 2007

In Bible class on a Sunday a.m.

VBS - she was really "into" the singing of this song.

During VBS 2007 - McKinley dressed up for part of the skit.

Things McKinley loves about God, church and other things...

McKinley and I were going to sit on the porch and "talk about things, you know Momma, things like God and stuff" - so what Momma can turn down that topic of conversation? So, we were eating our Blue Bell mini rainbow popsicles (essential for a good talk) and here are the things she wanted to talk about. She likes looking at the trees God made - we have a lot in our backyard! She tells me that her really favorite song is "Jesus Loves Me" - without the Me's - (you have to sing the song standing up and if you say "me" - then you must sit down). She also loves the Bible story about Noah's Ark. She loves singing in church and singing in Bible class. She just loves going to church (Yea!) She also loves praying - I posted a few pictures from a while back. She just loves VBS and really enjoys the debos (devos - devotionals) - We were in the same group this year and I just love watching her learn - she asks and answers questions - it is such a neat experience to know that God is touching the hearts in our young children. I am longing for more days like this - I love our "talks" - baby.

Why I Love my Daddy - by McKinley

2008-07-21T13:20:00.001-07:00

This picture will NOT post correctly - but it's such a sweet picture.

Me and daddy taking a morning walk

Daddy reading bedtime stories

i like playing with daddy. i like to snuggle with daddy. i like feeding the cows and going to the farm with daddy. i like reading books with daddy. i like drawing pictures for him. i like playing outside with daddy. i like going on walks with daddy. i like when daddy puts me to bed. he sings me a song and says a prayer at night. he sings rock-a-bye-baby. i love my daddy. he's my best daddy to me.

It tastes like chocolate

2008-07-16T11:10:00.000-07:00

18 months old

3 1/2 years

4 years

(the other day)

McKinley has been sucking her thumb since she emerged from the womb. I can't say that it has been a bad thing - except now she is 4 years old. Her pediatrician says she really can't help it and not to worry about it - it's just a reflex. But... lately she has been saying it tastes like chocolate. I guess if you're going to pretend it tastes like something - it might as well be chocolate - maybe I should try it - it's a lot less calories than a bag of Hershey kisses!!! Here are some pictures of McKinley - I know that one day when all her friends convince her to stop - she will - but as for me, I'm going to let her enjoy her calorie free chocolate!

I will add pics later - it's off to the pool!

TK

Things I don't ever want to forget about McKinley...

2008-07-10T18:28:00.000-07:00

that she is my best girl.
that I love her more than life.
that God gave her to me because we belong together.
that she was not the first - but definitely the most present in my life.
the funny things she says
the special things she says
the sweet things she says

1. a conversation between Sara and McKinley -
when we hung up from talking to you your sweet daughter said "i love my mama." i said "i do too, she is my good friend." mac said "well, she is my best mama." i said "you are absolutely right"
~~~She melts my heart.
2. Chris and I were talking to McKinley about beginning speech and we were talking about how she can speak well - but that speech would help her out even more. She said, "I can speak well - do you want to hear?" I said, "of course, I want to hear." She began speaking "Oooh, oooh" - (whale) - "see momma, I can do it - I don't need to go to speech.
~~~If you were wondering... she began speech the next month.

Our little things

2008-07-10T16:22:00.000-07:00

This is my first time to blog - you know, something personal, not just my photography. We have so many funny things that happen in our home everyday that I thought others could use a laugh or chuckle - so here it is - welcome to Kauffman joys.

McKinley finished up her swim lessons for this week - she has come such a long way - and is very proud of herself. She has now jumped into the pool from the diving board without any help - from arm floaties, her momma or the lifeguard. This is such a big deal in her little world right now - so she decided that she would call her aunts and uncles, and grandparents - but only her Daddy answered the call that morning - to hear her exciting news - but that's okay - she didn't tire of telling them when they called her back that evening and the next day.

We had some friends over today and the kids did great - they played UNO, visited in the kiddie pool and enjoyed popsicles - Can you believe that I didn't get one picture while they were here?

I do intend to write the funny sayings of McKinley - I will be backtracking for awhile - because they are just too funny not to post -