2 Proud Parents of 3 Wonderful Little Girls!

OMGosh....where have we gone?

2011-07-20T12:59:00.000-07:00

We are still here and still trucking along as a busy little family. This summer has been a very busy Summer thus far (at least for this busy momma). Whew! I promise, promise to post pics and real catch up posts soon. For now, I am working full time, doing my photography what feels like full time and planning a weekend get-away to Galveston and then a 6 days girls trip for me, the girls and my mom to.....(wait for it).....(wait for it).....San Diego, California. WAHOO...the girls and I are super excited about this one.

Traveling out of state (Texas) is a big event for our family and not only are we traveling out of state but this time we are flying. Yep.....the girls can't wait to fly since they have never flown (that they can remember anyway). My mom travels a lot for work and is always calling me from her road trip telling me how beautiful the place was and how she wished we were there to see it. So....this time she tells me that she is planning a trip to California and I jumped on the waggon. It was a hard choice and decision because we are trying to save money for out Disney World Trip next Summer but between her work paying for the hotel and rental car and us pulling together some flight points, and me putting myself on a strict budget while there....we are making it work. YAHOO...a girls trip to Cali in early August....here we come. :o)

Hayden's 1st Birthday

2011-06-09T12:02:00.000-07:00

Hayden had a mini party in her daycare class on Thursday. It was too darn cute! We put hats on the babies and sang happy birthday. BUT...only Hayden got a cupcake...her first take of cupcake and she L-O-V-E-D It. :o)

For her party at home we had a lot of family and friends over for a pools party and it was a great party. A little warm out but this is June in Texas, so we fully expected that. :o) She had her punk princess themed party and we all loved the cake. It was so pretty and YUMMY!

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Hayden's turning ONE!

2011-05-31T08:11:00.000-07:00

My baby girl will be one in two days and I will be throwing my last First Birthday Party this weekend. I can't believe it...I just can't. Looking back...I can remember the shock of finding out that we were pregnant with her, then before having her wondering how our life would be after we have her, and now....a year later.....I can't imagine life without her. I seriously can't. I don't even remember what life was like before her. She has been such a wonderful blessing to this family. We all adore and love Miss Hayden.

Here are a few photos that I got of her for her 1st birthday. Since we have done so many cutesy parties....we have decided to make this one a bit different. She will be having a punk princes 1st birthday party...girly skull and cross bones and hot pink and black.

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These are what her invitations look like. :o)

Sole Impact 2011

2011-05-31T07:36:00.000-07:00

For the past few weeks, Skyler (along with her BFF Hannah) has been part of a great organization for girls 6-15yrs old, called "Sole Impact". She attends two meetings a week where they cover eating healthy, living healthy, the importance of exercise, maintaining a healthy, smoke and drug free life style, self confidence, self esteem building, empower girls to be leaders in our community, raising money for cancer research, all of that on top of various exercises and running 1-2 miles each meeting.

Their slogan "I am one young voice, but I can change the world" is an important message that she is learning. She finished this season with a 2 mile "Tulip Trot" at Market Street in The Woodlands. She did an amazing job running almost the entire thing. We held signs and cheered her on as she passed us about 5 times along the way. We could not be more proud of her for being part of this wonderful organization and completing the race.

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Skyler and Hannah stretching before the big run

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Madison made this sign all by herself...she is such a good little sister!!!

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A few words before the race

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Hayden LOVED ringing the cow bell.

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Getting all lined up to go.

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And they are off!

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Love that she is smiling. :o)

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coming around one of the turns and she is NOT walking or stopping for water yet. WAY TO GO SKYLER...keep on trucking!!!!

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Still looking good.,

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Best Friends Supporting eachother after the race.....they are such sweet friends.

Way to go Skyler we are so proud of you!!!

Love Mom and Dad!!!

Madison graduates pre-school

2011-05-31T07:15:00.000-07:00

Madison has been in the same daycare/school since she was 12 months old and just graduated from their pre-school program. She is very excited to be starting kindergarten in August and asks us every day if today is they day she starts "big school". LOL...it's going to be a long Summer. :o) We are so proud of her and every thing that she has learned.

Life Changes

2011-05-26T14:51:00.000-07:00

It seems that I have just realized that life is changing around me and...well....to be honest, life, I guess is always changing some good some bad, but I just wish it would stop. I wish I could freeze time and enjoy it a little bit longer just as it is.
Current changes, good ones, bad ones and just changes.
Skyler just finished 3rd grade
Madison will soon start kindergarten
Hayden is almost one
This will be my last, "first birthday" that I will ever have
Schuyler is about to start a new position within the same company
My mom and Walt are getting closer and closer to retiring and will soon start traveling in their new camper
My sweet mom has been having some health issues
My blessing from heaven, mamaw is 88 now
Mamaw had a heart attack yesterday
The thought of losing my mamaw, which will happen some day, scares and saddens me to no end.
Skyler (my oldest) is almost 9
In August I will be dropping in hours getting off at 3:00
Hayden is getting closer and closer to walking every day
I am 32 (gasp)
My mother-n-law and I have gotten a lot closer in the past year or so
My photography keeps me busy
My children and husband keep me busy
Our house is not always clean
Our laundry is rarely done and put away
I see family members struggle financially
I see family members struggle with happiness
I see family members struggle with health
I find myself miss my dad and wonder what kind of of relationship we would have today had he not passed when I was 16 years old.
I find myself loving my husband more and more on a daily basis....no matter how cleche' that may sound, it is 100% true.
We are planning a Disney Trip for next summer and realizing how expensive said trip is going to be makes me panic a little....but am super excited because I know that I have 3 beautiful daughters who will not only LOVE IT, they totally deserve it. :o)
Schuyler and I have finally completed our wills after 7 years in the making.

Like I said....changes....some good, some bad some...just changes. I guess that is life, but today, it's got me thinking.

A day in in our house

2011-05-24T17:42:00.000-07:00

LOL!!! This video cracks me up!!!!

Michael and Katy's Wedding 5/21/11 Tyler Texas

2011-05-24T13:58:00.000-07:00

Michael and Katy's wedding was beautiful and we all had a great time. Congratulations Michael and Katy. So happy for you both.

Oh and yes...I loved my shoes and dress. :o)

Sure wish this one came out better but I still love it. :o)

yep...I was trying to get Madison to let go of my hand because she was about to make me drop Hayden and Lynn (mother-n-law) was having a blast. :o) Love her face here.

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Me and my wonderful husband. L-O-V-E him.

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The girls with their grandmother - Love

For some reason Hayden would go to anyone other than Aunt Robyn this weekend. Poor Robyn got her feelings hurt every time.

Best Mother-n-Law ever

2011-05-24T13:37:00.000-07:00

My mother-n-law took me shopping and it was a very nice spoil Shelley day. She got me 2 beautiful dresses, a pair of to die for 4 inch satin champaign colored shoes, matching clutch purse, and some awesome dangle earrings. As with most moms...my money normally goes to new things for the girls then I normally wear just something in my closet, so this was a very sweet and special treat that she provided me. Thank you so very much Lynn. I can't wait until Michael and Katy's wedding. :o)
These are the shoes.... LOVE

And this is the dress....well....mine is champaign color like the shoes but same dress.

Skyler's 3rd Grade Awards Ceremony

2011-05-20T14:17:00.000-07:00

Skyler has been a wonderful student ever year and this year was no different. She received 5 awards and was on the all A B Honor Roll, with one darn B all year. We are so stinking proud of her and all of her accomplishments. She is truly an amazing child and such a blessing.

Here are all three of my beautiful, sweet AMAZING baby girls on our way out to watch Skyler's awards.

Skyler's class

Me, the girls, and my super supportive always there for everything mom. She is one AWESOME grandma to my girls. They are so lucky to have her. Love you mom.

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What is with all of the jumping and excitiment, you ask? Well... while Erica took photos I video taped....watch and see.

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Yep that is right!!!!

Erica and I going to take Skyler and Hannah to see Taylor Swift as part of their "way to go in school and making wonderful grades" reward. Tickets have been purchased and we are planning our super fun concert. :o)

The life of a mom is NOT glamorous

2011-05-16T13:28:00.000-07:00

The life of a mom is NOT glamorous! While in my work clothes of heels and white slacks it started off with changing a poopy diaper,, then I had to fish a frisbie out of the lake with a long pole, then had to take two dirty drash cans out to the street, then change the cage/water for a hurmit crab....and..some how I managed to stay clean. :o) BUT....I did show up to work with no makeup on. oops LOL!

New Home Away From Home

2011-05-12T13:23:00.000-07:00

Ok...Ok....it is not our Home Away From Home, it is my parents new camper and I had to share. They plan on retiring soon and traveling the country in the bad boy. Decked out with a fire place, granite counter tops, two big screen TV's, a kitchen island, and 4 slide outs...this Home Away From Home is exactly what they needed and wanted. I am so happy for them.

BFF's

2011-05-10T12:51:00.000-07:00

Look at these two BFF's chatting away at breakfast like two little old ladies. Erica and I are both so happy that they have each. As Erica stated they have their own little language and know finish each others sentences. LOVE!!!

This was posted on Facebook along with this photo by Erica. (hannah's mom)
There's an unspoken language, almost resembling a dance, that best friends have. It's not choreographed, just effortless fallen into by two people who love one another and are so in sync. I have been fortunate to find this in a dozen or so amazing women (I can't tag you all so I am choosing not to tag anyone, but you know who you are) and it warms my heart to see it happen for Hannah. Over the past 24 hours I have watched her and Skyler complete each others sentences, giggle over things I have no clue about, share drinks without thought and much more. Thank God for best girl friends! <3

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-08T12:55:00.000-07:00

This year for Mother's Day...Schuyler left early int he morning to go take his mom to lunch while the girls and I headed to my mom's house to surprise her and mamaw with home made breakfast at 8 in the morning. They were both very surprised and grateful. Check out the photo that my mom took of me and the girls on her phone and posted on facebook. :o)

I love my wonderful mom and mother-n-law! Happy Mother's Day to all of you moms.

Client Photo

2011-05-07T13:21:00.000-07:00

I rarely share client photos on my family blog....BUT...I love this little boy and how wonderfully he cooperated with me. :o) Introducing 9 day old Braedyn

Happy Day!!!

2011-05-05T13:12:00.000-07:00

I have mentioned a while back that I have some changes coming....well....that time is getting closer. I just got the word back that my request to go to semi-part time at work was approved. It won't technically be part time but I will be getting off at 3:00 each day. This will greatly help our family. I will be there to get Skyler and Madison from school and will be able to get home and do homework and start dinner much earlier than normal. Also, now with sports we seem to be always on the go in the evenings so getting home work and dinner out of the way before practices or games with be a HUGE HELP! I can't tell you how happy I am that Schuyler and I finally feel comfortable enough to do this. I will be sacrificing a little income BUT with Madison starting school and not having daycare costs for her....it really helps. As a mom....I know this will only be a good thing for me and the girls. I will be there for them more when I am so used to relying on mamaw or friends or neighbors to help after school. OMG.....I am so happy and at peace with this decision. Thanks for my wonderful husband for helping to make this happen and supporting me in making this decision. He's my love and my strength.

My little sales girl

2011-05-05T12:41:00.000-07:00

I am not sure if being a sales girl is something to "strive for" but if anyone has a natural ability to sale it is Skyler. She just has it in her bones some how and trust me....she doesn't get that from me. Just the thought of doing fundraisers a a kid made me cry. But then again....I was very shy.

Every fund raiser that Skyler is given she excels at. She begs me to let her go around the neighborhood selling. Oh and she HAS to start the day that she is given it because "if I wait other kids will go to my normal houses and they will buy from them and not me" UGH...really?! She is crazy BUT she has a lot to show for her hard work. I actually envy her and the fact that even in the face of rejection she says "thank you" and is off sprinting to the next house without even missing a beat. Takes a special person to take rejection so well. :o) Every year with the school fund raiser she gets to do something fun because she is always one of the top sellers.

These are a few rewards that she has gotten for being one of the top sellers
Kindergarten was a pizza party
First Grade was a a pizza and moonwalk party
Second Grade a limo Ride to Double Dave's pizza
Third Grade (this year) a Hummer limo ride to Cici's Pizza (photo below)

Such a lucky girl to get to ride in a limo twice before her 9th birthday. HA....I have never ridden in a limo....sat in many of them but never ridden. Lucky girl who works hard for these special rewards. I am soooo proud of her.

We are a boating family :o)

2011-05-05T12:37:00.000-07:00

This is us on our boat minus Hayden who was spending the day with mamaw.

Kindergarten

2011-05-04T13:08:00.000-07:00

It's official. We have just signed Madison up for Kindergarten and she will be starting in August. Love this girl....just wish she would stop growing up. :o)

Madison is super spirited and constantly tests the limits BUT she is so sweet and very smart. I know that she will do great in kindergarten and blow them all away. I am so proud of how much she has learned in her private pre-school program and how much she has learned.

Date Night

2011-04-30T13:04:00.000-07:00

Last night Schuyler and I had a date. oooooo....a date.....it was sooooo nice! Alone time and we were able to actually talk and not be interrupted with children. aaaaaaaah....peace. We went to PF Chang's...hello yummm. Then we were thinking about going to a local pub to hang out and have a few drinks BUT since we got a lot of visiting time in during dinner and since we are pretty adventurous and spontaneous people we decided to go play gold. YEP...the two of us bowled the night away. It was so much fun....Just the two of us. :o)

Park Bums

2011-04-30T12:30:00.000-07:00

Daddy was working on the boat so us girls packed up and went to a local pretty big park. We took our bikes, snacks and drinks and made a good half day out of it. It was nice for just me and the girls to get out and play on our own. Madison loved spinning me on this thing that...well....not anything that I am used to seeing on a playground from when I was a kid....that can only be described as a torture devise from playground hell. :o) She spun and and spun me until I was laughing and crying and about to throw up all at the same time. I was begging her to stop. AWWW...I love that girl and her spunk for life. :o)

Trip to Herman Park

2011-04-29T12:16:00.000-07:00

While I was on an engagement shoot at Herman Park Schuyler and the girls tagged along and enjoyed a nice train ride and after my shoot the 5 of us treated ourselves to, a first for the girls, dinner at Hard Rock Cafe in downtown Houston. The girls loved seeing a little bit of downtown while we waited for our car from valet. Here is one of my favorite photos ever, I snapped it as Schuyler and the girls were going by on the train. He is such a good daddy!!!!

Non Traditional Easter

2011-04-24T12:24:00.000-07:00

We opted for a very non traditional Easter this year. While everyone was getting fancy'd up and heading to church and relatives houses....we packed up with mamaw and papaw and headed to the beach. The beach was covered in seaweed (welcome to Galveston) and the wind was crazy insane...but we had a great little get away. Might even opt for a non traditional Easter for now on. I don't know...we will see. :o)

Rush Soccer Spring 2011

2011-04-23T12:02:00.000-07:00

Soccer is a passion of Skyler and this year we decided to enroll her in Rush Soccer. Rush soccer is a little more advanced than the league she was in before and and a lot more aggressive. She really has learned a lot this seasson and starting to show some good improvement We look forward to many more Rush Soccer seasons with out little soccer player. :o)

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A few pics from the team party. Skyler's Coach Jason was a great aggressive coach for Skyler to have as her first coach in Rush soccer. He really pushed her when she needed it.

Easter is coming and we are getting ready

2011-04-23T11:55:00.000-07:00

Are you ready?

BUSY BUSY BUSY little photographer here

2011-04-20T11:48:00.000-07:00

I have been one very busy photographer. Between weddings, shoots, work, husband, children, family, friends, sports, school, housework....etc. I am stretched beyond control! I am exhausted...but so very happy to be busy. :o) The wedding portion of Kutina Photography is really taking off and mommy likes! :o)
http://www.kutinaphotography.com/ and/or www.facebook.com/kutinaphotography

See this crumpled mess on the floor. YEP...that is me! I love my job!

Say hello to some of the most adorable little feet you have ever seen. :o)

2011-04-15T11:34:00.000-07:00

OK....maybe we all feel that way about our children's feet...BUT...I had to share this photo of my kids feet. I can pick it apart and find tons wrong with it and it was from a few months ago....BUT...."thems my babies" and I LOVE THEM, so I think they are the most adorable feet ever! :o)

Sick of Sickness

2011-04-11T11:35:00.000-07:00

Skyler and Schuyler had the stomach bug, then Madison had the stomach bug, then Hayden got a cold that turned into an ear infection and sinus infection...now my mom has had some stomach issues and is in the hospital and hoping she doesn't have to have surgery. :o(

When I was home with Madison one day and was doing laundry in the bedroom this is what I came out to find....

What is it? Well, when I pulled back the blanket this is what I found....
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A sick feverish little girl nice and cozy in her fort.

I have no shame in telling the truth

2011-04-11T11:30:00.000-07:00

Today has been one of those days. Well....all weekend has been! Apparently my kids don't fully understand the meaning of kids should be seen and not heard. No matter if I see my kids or not...I hear them from ever spot in my house. I just can't get away from it tonight. CALGON TAKE ME AWAY!!!! (but not too far and for too long or I might miss them) LOL

A mom....blessed and cursed with this LOVE that we have for our children. First we want and need a break from them and 5 minutes later we miss them and their laughter. See what I mean....blessing and a curse.?! Yep.. I might just be a little crazy today. :o)

Playdate and visit from cousin Brianna

2011-04-03T12:38:00.000-07:00

Miss Hayden is 10 Months old

2011-04-02T10:30:00.000-07:00

Hayden is 10 months old now and this video is a few weeks old but too cute not to share. (she crawls much better now days) I love this sweet little girl and her happy squeals and smiles. Just LOVE HER! :o)

Happy, Happy Play Days

2011-03-25T09:58:00.000-07:00

Hayden is a bath in the sink kinda girl. After eating dinner lunch snack....she gets plopped in the sink to be cleaned and she LOVES IT. She loves her sink baths and so do we.

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Skyler's friend Hanna comes to visit so much and here is how they came down stairs today. Makeup, Hayden's hair bow and dress up super gaudy jewelry.

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Hello.....

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Madison is learning to skate.

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With the help of big sister.

Spring Break 2011

2011-03-18T10:38:00.000-07:00

For Spring break 2011 we took a trip to New Orleans for the St. Patrick's Day Parade, the French quarter, and other adventures. I am sure glad that my van is a good long distance family car...the TV and the ability to move around and such makes it a lot better. Also, daddy is able to get his "long drive" position on. :o)

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Our first stop in NO was New Orleans' Hamburger and Seafood....which was not only good froom but was also Schuyler's first job when he was 15.

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YUMMMMMMM

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The next morning we got up and ready for the family St. Patricks Parade in Metire.... all dressed in our green. :o)

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This "small guy" was in the hotel lobby.

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Oh yea....Cafe Du Monde for Beignets. If you go to NO...you have to have 1 or 2 or 15....they are YUMMM YUMMM YUMMM! We made two trip to it during our visit and it wasn't enough. :o)

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We also found this totally awesom plantation to tour and visit. I LOVE the trees.

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While we were in NO, it was also Kathleen's birthday so we kept Trevor at our hotel for the night while Anthony and Kathleen went out on the town for a grown up dinner.

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We had a pizza party.

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Then sent the big kids to the study/living room area, behind those double doors to watch a movie and have popcorn while, we spent time with Hayden and then watch a movie of our own.

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The next morning we were off to the aquarium.

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On the way home we stopped and had a picknick lunch on the mississippi river.

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Hayden is starting to crawl 9 months old

2011-03-05T09:30:00.000-08:00

My baby is starting to crawl...this is a video of basically her 1st crawling and even though it is short is it s a start. :o) I think she is so darn cute. :o)

Skyler as Mrs. Piggly Wiggly for Character Day at School

2011-02-19T20:24:00.000-08:00

Hayden's 1st tooth

2011-02-19T20:21:00.000-08:00

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Valentine's 2011

2011-02-19T20:18:00.000-08:00

The girls on valentine's Morning.

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Making thier cards

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hehehe...momma being silly with Hayden

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Ice Day = Fun Warm Day Inside

2011-02-18T06:53:00.000-08:00

The girls had an ice day off from school and my work was also closed so we cranked the heater up and played inside. I took that time to snap a few photos of the girls for their Valentine's cards.

Don't you just love this diaper cover given to us from Schuyler cousin Amy? I do. :o)

Look....this next one she has her famous "old man" face that Hayden seems to be making a lot these days. Not sure if it is because she is feeling her two teeth or what. OH....did I forget to mention that she has TWO teeth??? Her two bottom front teeth and when she smiles big they show....it is soooo cute.

Madison didn't really want her photo taken today but I got these two cute ones.

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Madison turns 5

2011-02-16T08:52:00.000-08:00

It seems that with 3 children we have lots of birthdays and milestones to mention. {insert happy/sad sigh} She had a wonderful party with tons of family and sweet little friends (mostly girls) to celebrate it with. She had a HUGE princess castle moonwalk, a make-up station, a nail polish station and I baked cupcakes before hand and let them decorate them anyway they wanted. Oh...the icing, sprinkles and candy toppings were all over the place -BUT- it was worth it. Very well worth it all. A little girls 5 year old birthday only comes along once and a messy house....well that comes along a lot more often. {shameless grin}
A big thank you to all that helped with the party and did make-up or nails....I have the best family and friends around who all know that some days it takes a small village to raise a child.

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Total cutenes...total cuteness! :o)

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Aunt Anita hates this photo but I still love it.

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awww....my big girls

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Check out this moonwalk...it was HUGE and the kids loved it. It had an obsticle course a slide, basket ball goals and the jumping area. It was an awesome find for her 5th birthday. FIT FOR A PRINCESS. :o)

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Madison, Ashly and Abby have grown up together at daycare since they were babies. They are the bestest of friends. Now Abby's baby brother is in the same class with Hayden and it seems that they will grow up together too. He is the most adorable little boy with some beautiful but crazy blonde hair you will ever see. :o)

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These two are true BFF's....BFF's to the end. Did I mention...she also lives in our same neighborhood and will be going to the same elementary as Madison as well? Oh yea....they will be BFF's for a long time.

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LOOK....I actually get out from behind the camera from time to time. That's the illusive "ME"! And did you notice that I wore my zebra apron to match the girls? All 4 of us girls had zebra print on some part of our attire. Skyler said that "we are the zeabra girls, kinda like the cheetah girls but not" hahaha

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Check out Hayden's shirt that I made. Yes...me...the momma who can't sew if her life depended on it. Then how did I do this??? It was iron on. LOL....can't you tell? Part of the A is coming off. I guess I am not even good at iron on either. Oh well, it was cute anyway. :o)

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HAPPY 5th Birthday Madison....Mommy and Daddy Love You!!!

August....Come on August!!!

2011-02-16T08:19:00.000-08:00

August will be the start of some big exciting changes for me and my family. Madison starts kindergarten, Skyler will turn 9 {BIG GULP}...YES....NINE YEARS OLD, and there are a few other chances that will remain a secret for now. BUT...the fact of the matter is that I am super excited as I know that these chances will be great for our family. Every single one of us!!!! So for now....I exit with this, August......Come on AUGUST!!!

Hayden is 8 months old

2011-02-16T08:10:00.000-08:00

I am not sure where the time has gone and how we got here ~but~ Hayden is 8 months old. She is sitting up really well, eating babyfood, smiling, laughing, and plays this sweet little hide and go seek game with you by pulling the blanket over her face until you say "where is Hayden" then she pulls it down and smiles so big waiting for me to say "there she is", to which she CRACKS UP LAUGHING with this huge big belly laugh. I could play that game all day. I just love it!

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Don't you just love this next one??? I know I do. She HATED that thing around her neck so I only got one of her wearing it....but does she look like an old hollywood movie star? hahah...playing dress up is so much fun....even for grown up mommas. {grin}

At first look this next photo looks like a mistake or an "oops" photo but after going back to it....I actually like it. Something about Skyler and Madison zooming around Hayden while her and I interact....just the two of us. You may not like it but to me, it is a photo that when I look at it makes me feel like time stood still while I enjoyed my sweet little baby who won't be a baby forever. I love it. :o)

Where have I been???

2011-02-11T11:04:00.000-08:00

Well, I have been so busy with holidays, life, work, kids, house, sports, oh and if you follow my blog but don't know....my photography again, that I haven't had much time for my blog. GASP! Shame on me.

As for my photography it kinda got pushed to the wayside towards the end of my pregnancy and then after having Hayden it was still on the wayside, but now, it is full-steam ahead again and I am LOVIN' it. :o)
I have also made some changed to my website and I think I like it, if I do say so myself. It is still a work in progress but for the most part, I am "feelin' it". Step on it, take a look, browse around and tell me what you think? www.kutinaphotography.com

I cannot promise that I will stay on top of my blog but I can promise that I will TRY! :o)

What's a BFF???

2011-02-07T09:49:00.000-08:00

What's a BF you ask? Well...it is a best friend, a friend above all friends who has been by your side for many years and cares for you dearly even though you may have many difference between you. Skyler and her BFF Hannah are almost inseparable, same class for 3 years now and soon to be on the same soccer team as well. They sure love each other and I love that they have one another. BFF's are the best!
Below are a few of the photos that I have taken of them two in the past few years. :o)

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I love this sweet moment of them talking on the boat

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A night to remember Taylor Swift concert for Hannah's birthday

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Skyler in green and Hannah in purple at their school talent show in 2nd grade

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Look at all thos missing teeth. :o)

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Skyler on top left and and Hannah on top right go Texan day at school

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1st day of 2nd grade

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Skyler's 7th birthday

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1st grade school program

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Halloween....I think 1st grade.

New Year's 2011 trip to The Ranch in Kerrville

2011-01-05T12:15:00.000-08:00

We spent New Year's 2011 in Kerrville at Linda and CD's Ranch. Between the fun cold weather, all of the animals, duck hunting, deer hunting, family, food, fireworks, a trip to the movies, rolling hills, beautiful scenery and did I say FOOD? - WE HAD A WONDERFUL TIME!

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Christmas 2010

2010-12-25T11:52:00.000-08:00

This Christmas was even more special and exciting with three little girls. We had a great Christmas 2010. Skyler 8, Madison 4 and Hayden 6 months.

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Christmas is coming

2010-12-18T10:04:00.000-08:00

All three girls got a little dressed up for their Chirstmas parties at school. :o)

Skyler's school program went really well and she had a huge entourage there to watch her. She did great and look so beautiful. :o)

Back Surgery

2010-12-07T07:04:00.000-08:00

I have had a very bad back that started when I was about 16 years old and since the pain had become constant, I finally decided to see a doctor. Well as it turns out I have some pretty sever back issues that are causing some nerve damage and needed surgery ASAP.

So on November 23rd I had back surgery, called a discectomy, which removed my biggest bulging disc. The surgery itself didn't take very long but the recovery has been pretty difficult and painful. I am finally back at work after 2 weeks off and I feel pretty good. I am required to wear a back brace for 6 weeks after the surgery and I would not say that it is pretty. :o)

Here I was about 5 minutes before surgery.

Below is a picture of my 16 staples that go through my lower back tattoo...it is also not very pretty.

Family Photos

2010-11-17T10:35:00.000-08:00

My friend Shannon took our family photos and with 5 people all doing 50 different things at any given moment, I was pleased to see that we still got some pretty cute ones. I had to share some of them....I just love my Little Family! :o)

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Hayden 5 Months Old and starting to sit up

2010-11-12T10:01:00.000-08:00

Hayden is 5 months old and is starting to get a great personality. She smiles, laughs and just loves life. We shure love this babye girl. :o)

Hayden the drool factory

2010-11-08T11:52:00.000-08:00

Oh my....Hayden is apparently trying to cut some teeth and the drool factory has opened for business. She is still such a sweet and happy baby but seriously...this drooling/slobbering mess has got to find a new home. :o) This past weekend we went to Huntsville to meet with some friends and Shannon took our family photos and I took their family photos. So between Hayden's drooling, Madison's need to be a goofball, Skyler's 8 year old "I am too cool for this" attitude and my husbands strong desire to NOT want to take photos I am hoping we get at least one good family photo. HA! We shall see. :o)

Halloween for the Kids

2010-11-02T09:06:00.000-07:00

The girls were The Three Blind Mice for Halloween this year and with the help of my mother-n-law Lynn once again I think they turned out pretty cute.

Skyler 8 years old, Madison 4 years old and
Hayden 5 months old

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As you can tell from below every where they went they were RUNNING and we all had to try to keep up with them.

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One sleepy mouse taking a little mousy nap

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I have no idea why I am the only one who was looking at the camera here other than the fact that there were hundreds of people around with some pretty awesome and creepy costumes for the kiddos to look at.

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Check out the pretty cute pics I got of my sweet friend and neighbor snuggling with Hayden

We hope everyone had a wonderful Halloween.

Halloween 2010 for Adults

2010-11-02T08:36:00.000-07:00

We had an adult Halloween Party at the house and it went really well. It was pretty cold out so we were all thankful of Schuyler's totally awesome fire pit. It was a huge lifesaver. I am glad that everyone came and enjoyed the party with us.

Check out this way cool cake that my sister Tammy made. She is super talented even though she just does it as a hobby and only for the family. All I did was send her a picture of a cake I found online and asked her to make one like that and sure did but hers was even better. Thank you Tammy...you are gifted.

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These are the super easy bug cookies that I made for the party. Very easy but pretty cute.

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This is my very dysfunctional looking family (minus my brother and his wife)
from left to right:
Judge David, Eskimo Tracy, Jack in the Box Josh, Wendy's Girl Stacy, Mad Hatter Mike, Alice Tammy, Police Girl Me, Convict Schuyler, Witch Mom, Pimp Dad.

The winner and runner up of the costume contest.

Schuyler with the Jack head on

HA...I tried on the Jack Head too.

Thank you to all that came and played with us - Police Shelley and Convict Schuyler

Finding your niche in pictures

2010-10-27T14:34:00.000-07:00

A few days ago I talked about the girls trying to find their niche and here are some pictures of them trying to do just that.

Skyler sure is improving in her soccer game. She has started being more aggressive, which is a must in soccer, and her passing/dribbling have gotten much better. She gets pretty warn out towards the end of the games since soccer is running, running, and more running but she hangs in there pretty good. We could not be more proud of her. Way to go Skyler

Madison has been doing gymnastics for a few weeks now and even though she is in with mostly older girls she is holding her own. She is doing cartwheels, the splits (almost all the way to the floor) a back bend (with head off the floor), has recently learned how to do a handstands, learning the bars, and balance beam. Way to go Madison.

We could not be more proud of the girls these days....they are working hard, trying their best and are doing great.

This weeks pictures

2010-10-27T14:02:00.000-07:00

Girls, Girls Girls

2010-10-27T13:58:00.000-07:00

The picture people came to daycare one day and captured some cute pictures of my little girls so I had to scan them in and share them. :o)

Hayden is 4 Months old and has "bling"

2010-10-15T12:51:00.000-07:00

It worked out this time that both Schuyler and I were off and able to take Hayden to her 4 month appointment. It is wonderful that at this age they don't fear the doctor yet but I know it is only a matter of time before she will...she will start realizing that that is the place where she gets shots and pokes and prods. This time she happily let them examine her while she reached for their faces and stethoscopes so we...scratch that...I decided that it was the right time to get her ears pierced since next time she may not be so happy. Daddy happily stepped out of the room and the doctor began marking the spots on her ears where he was going to pierce, while oblivious to what was about to happen Hayden smiled, coo'd and touched the doctors face. Then as they pierced her 1st ear there was a pause and she began to cry, he quickly pierced her other ear. I picked her up and loved on her to which made her stop crying and I was able to see how stinking cute she looked with her new diamonds.....or shall I say bling. :o) Granted the pain did not stop there as she had to have 3 shots but Hayden is tough and with the help of some mommy lovin' and her binky she was fast asleep and ready to go home.

4 months stats: 11 lbs. 14oz. 15% 25.5 in. long 90%

So she is long and skinny

So please take a gander at my little beauty and her "bling".

After a few pictures mommy and Hayden laid down for a little nap.

The kinds of stuff that brings you to your knees.

2010-10-14T12:29:00.000-07:00

Today I checked in on a blog that I have been following for a while and I was brought to my knees. You see....they are a young family, with two little girls and one was born a year and half ago with a rare illness. After logging on I discovered that the little girl's body could not take it anymore and she has gone to heaven.

Moments like that - moments where your heart drops into the pit of your stomach, moments where your entire body aches for a family, moments where you are brought to your knees in sadness for a family are the moments that make me thank god for all of the blessings that he has given me and my family. I read blogs of families who are in the midst of horrible situations such as this and I pray....I pray for them and I pray for myself. I pray that I do not forget this moment, this feeling, this pain, this sadness for what I feel for these families is nothing compared to what THEY are actually feeling. How can a parent lose a child and....well....I can't fathom that....I just can't. I can tell you this....I love my children, my little girls, they are the meaning of life and the kind of love that a mother has is the kind of love that can't be broken. So just the thought of what these parents are feeling just bring me to my knees and make me want to go and hug my girls.

Yes...I am rambling...I have thoughts and feelings rushing in that can't be tamed.

I feel ashamed that I am grateful that I am not in their shoes, ashamed that I never want to feel what they are feeling, ashamed that I am happy that my girls are healthy, ashamed that...well...that I am happy. How is it that I can be so blissfully happy all while families struggle like this on a daily basis? I am blissfully happy and that makes me sad. That sure sounds confusing....but I guess the more correct wording would be that I feel guilty, guilty that I am so lucky to have all that I have, guilty that I would not trade my life for theirs. {Does that make me a horrible person?}

So here I sit praying for that family, praying that god give them strength to make it through these horrible days and thanking god for my blessings. Please pray for this little girl who has gone to heaven and for her family left behind. They may be strangers to us all but they are no strangers to god. So pray....he will know who we are praying for.

Toes, Toes and More Toes

2010-10-06T14:19:00.000-07:00

Who likes to play with their feet? Hayden sure does. I am sure it is only a matter of time before she has a good ole' fashion yummy toe sandwich.

Fall is Fabulous

2010-10-06T13:50:00.000-07:00

We have all been enjoying this totally awesome fall weather. When we get home in the evenings we try to head straight outside where we do everything from swinging, doing homework, cooking on the grill, playing with toys, laying on blankets watching the clouds, doing cartwheels, and just enjoying life. Ohhhh...it has been so nice and relaxing.

Please ignore the sloppy hair....they had been at school all day and then playing hard in the back yard before I took this picture.

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Fall weather exhibit A: Homework outside
Fall weather exhibit B: Daddy's lap top outside doing his homework
Fall weather exhibit C: No more sleeveless shirts
Fall weather exhibit D: Hayden in her Bumbo on the table watching her big sister

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The weather has made it actually enjoyable for Schuyler while he has been building our back yard fire pit. And Madison....well she HAD to put on her leotard in order to do some tricks in the yard. LOL Check out these sweet pictures I caught of Daddy and Madison having a conversation while I laid on the blanket with Hayden in the grass.

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Seriously??? Could this be any sweeter?

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Miss Hayden and I laid on the blanket and talked and tickled and giggled while I tried this super cute hat on her.

FALL IS FABULOUS!!!

Hayden at 4 months

2010-10-06T09:48:00.000-07:00

Sharing with Hayden

2010-10-04T14:51:00.000-07:00

Hayden would like to

share some

super awesome

super cute

faces with

everyone that

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she knows

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and loves.

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Happy Monday!!!

Finding You Niche

2010-09-28T12:59:00.000-07:00

Its seems that finding you niche in life is not easy as one may think. From the ripe ole' age of five, I played softball and was always good at it. I played for many years and got a scholarship But I guess I never realized that not all kids take to each sport that way.

You see.....Skyler tried gymnastics as a tiny tot and I thought maybe she was just a bit to young. Then she tried Softball where she was pretty good but I am not sure it was her niche. Then after Skyler's begging and pleading we tried gymnastics again and it was more apparent that she was...well....not that good. So then we tried soccer where she was real good. But as time went on and her longing for gymnastics crept up again we let her try it one last time. Trying out a class was a blessing in disguise. She has finally accepted and agrees that it is most defiantly not her niche. Some times you just have to let them see it for themselves. So gladly we are putting her back into good ole' soccer where I know she will be happy and do wonderful. If this season does as well as it has in the past then we will put her in a more aggressive league next season and with all girls where I feel she will excel even more. We shall see.

Now Madison may seem to have found her niche, we shall see. She is still a bit young but at four years old she is starting to show some real talent. She also tried gymnastics as a tiny tot and even though she could do many of the requirements, her freewill, adventurous spirit got in her way. So we decided that she was too young and pulled her out. Then she tried soccer like Skyler and while Skyler excelled in soccer...Madison....not so much. She doesn't seem to do well in team sports. You know like when your team mate gets the ball and you throw your self on the ground because you are mad at them for not letting you have it...it is a good sign that you are not good at team sports. {grin} We have now tried gymnastics once again now that she is a year older and she did beautifully. The coaches pulled her to the side and asked her to do cartwheels and such and they were pretty impressed. They asked us how old she was and if she had ever done gymnastics before. After being told that she can do skills that most of the older kids can't even do and that if we do decide to put her in gymnastics they recommend her not be placed in the pre-k program but a level 1 or level 2. She would be the youngest by far....those girls range from 6-9 years old. We are thinking of trying it....so here goes nothing.

Only time will tell how the girls do and if soccer and gymnastics becomes their niche but we will support them the best we can and see where all this takes us.

Almost 4 Months Old

2010-09-26T23:58:00.000-07:00

Miss Hayden is almost 4 months old and is now starting to really form a personality. She is giggling a lot and sure can flash a smile at the drop of a hat but she has now learned what being put down feels like and her grins and giggles can turn to a cry and tears pretty fast. She sure knows how to turn it on when she wants to but we still adore her.

Weekly happenings

2010-09-26T20:24:00.000-07:00

I just love baby pictures and can't stop from snapping away at miss Hayden. She changes so much almost daily and I don't want to miss any of those changes.

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Everyone needs a good nap on the couch every now and then.

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Now that Hayden is getting a bit older and interacting a bit more Skyler and Madison are really starting to love playing with her.

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I seriously LOVE these little cheeks.

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And this sweet smile with the slight little dimple just melts my heart.

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And the eyes...oh....don't even get me started on her sweet litte deep blue eyes.

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Skyler and Madison have learned the art of brick stacking as we work on our back yard fire pit. {grin} They are great helpers when they get to take breaks every 5 minutes. LOL

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Hayden's 1st time in her exersaucer....she stares at the toys like she wishes she could control her hands and touch them. I know all to well that pretty soon she will be chewing on all of them and jumping up and down, so for now I am enjoying the lack of noise and drool.

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It's Football Season

2010-09-26T20:11:00.000-07:00

Family Randomness

2010-09-16T11:18:00.000-07:00

Sweet Hayden is about 3 1/2 months old and is doing very well. She is one of the happiest babies that you will ever meet and can offer up a smile at the drop of a hat. Just making eye contact will make her little face light up. She has been in daycare about 3 weeks now and did get a cold about one week into it but nothing serious and she got rid of it on her own. YEAH for no "sick baby" doctor visits yet. (knock on wood) She is starting to giggle and it is the sweetest little innocent giggle I have ever heard. She is still sleeping all night and I just have no complaints about this delightful little addition to our family.

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We recently went out on the lake and Hayden was introduced to the boat and her totally not comfortable life jacket. {grin} But she did great...better than I expected.

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We put her in the water and let her float on her back and she just laid there very still for about 10 minutes. I am not sure if she liked it or was in shock but again, she was much better about it than I expected.

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Schuyler and a buddy of his getting ready to wakeboard.

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Madison boating in my "cool glasses".

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This was the 1st time that all three girls rode in Schuyler's truck. My van doesn't pull the boat. :o)

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I think purple is her color.

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The football season has started and this is what my couch looked like while the game was on and I was getting dinner ready. {grin}

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I got wild little Madison to let me take a few pictures of her the other day and the pictures sure show her personality. I can't belive how much she has grown.

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Skyler's 8th Birthday Slumber Party

2010-09-15T14:01:00.000-07:00

Skyler's 8th Birthday Slumber Party went just as expected. A lot giggling, screaming, dancing, and just plain girly fun. I even heard one little girl say during the party that this was the best night of her life....it just melted my heart and made me so happy. Also, Skyler hugged me and said "Thank you mommy for my party, I'm having so much fun" Moments like those make it all worth it.

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What is a party without a pyramid? LOL

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left to right...
Madison, Allyson, Hannah, Skyler Hannah, Kaitlin, Cheyenne.

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This is about where the party turned wild.

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3 legged races

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carry the egg on the spoon races

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I was down stairs setting up for pizza dinner and the girls came down with bathing suits and makeup. I didn't know that one girl brought some until after they were all wearing it but I let them have fun with it even though I would normally not allow it.

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Skyler and her BFF Hannah

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Madison was a hot mess. :o)

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I took off her make up and then they flat ironed her hair. Again...I didn't know one of them brought a flat iron either.

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Happy 8th Birthday Skyler....we Love You.

Skyler's Brace Day @ 8 yrs old

2010-08-18T14:29:00.000-07:00

Today was a big day for Skyler, she got braces just 2 days after her 8th birthday. She was super excited and even woke me up early this morning to "remind me" that she got them on today. {grin} Here she is just before walking in to get her braces.

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Getting her last round of X-Rays before hand

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Getting started

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Almost done, they only put 4 braces on at this point since she still has some baby teeth and we are really just working on the front two at this time.

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Skyler and Dr. Pratt

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Check out those colors. I will post updated pics as things change, as for now...a few hours later...she is already a bit tender and feeling some pressure. Advil here we come. :o)

Galveston Trip

2010-08-16T17:44:00.000-07:00

We took a weekend trip to Galveston with Schuyler's cousin Kathleen, her husband Anthony and son Trevor. We had a blast and sure hated to leave.

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Madison and Trevor played well together, he is 6yrs old....right between the girls.

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This was Hayden's 1st time at the beach and she did great. We have been blessed with such a good baby this time around.

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The crew leaving the beach club house all loaded down and headed back to the condo

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Check out this sunset that we saw as leaving the club house....soooo pretty.
(wish the power lines weren't there though)

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Below is the pool area at the club house, it was a great way to relax and cool off after going to the beach.

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Hayden napping in the shade...no the radio was NOT on while she was laying there. :o)

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While us adults were sitting on the beach and the kiddos played in the water...we started to notice some horses and then all of the sudden we found out that we were in the middle of a beach trail ride. It was craziness....got a little worried since we got separated from the kids who were in the water with horses and cars all around.

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The view from the the balcony of the condo was so pretty and peaceful

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I love seeing these smiling faces, they sure love the beach.

While we were there we celebrated Skyler's 8th birthday at a local restaurant.

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Yup...this little girl is 8 years old. (tear) You can tell by this picture that she doesn't like to show her teeth very much anymore but that will all change in 2 days. She is getting BRACES on her front 4 teeth Wednesday!!! She is super excited.

Apparently we got a nail in the tire on the way home and I took the opportunity to teach the girls a life lesson that all girls should know....how to air up a tire and head to the nearest Discount Tire. {grin}

2010-08-11T12:06:00.000-07:00

I love how wonderful mamaw is to our girls and they love her so much. I sure wish Madison was in focus in this picture though.

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Miss Hayden was looking sweet and snuggly while mamaw was holding her.

Look at Hayden sun bath...ok she was only like this long enough for me to take the picture but I still think it's cute. :o)

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While I was cooking dinner daddy was getting his "play with Hayden time" after he got home from work.

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Mamaw has been growing this crazy looking plant around her swing....she says that the things growing on it are the things that luffas are made out of.

A movie that got me thinking

2010-08-09T22:22:00.000-07:00

This evening I was watching a movie that was PG13 and thought it would be ok that Madison was in and out during the movie. It wasn't a bad movie but it had some mature subjects. So when she sat down with me towards the middle I thought it was ok for her to watch since most of the mature subject matters were over her head anyway.

Well....at one point in the movie the mom kicked the dad out...it was a bit of a dramatic moment which included their 6 year old son chasing the dad's car down the road as he left, while screaming, crying and begging him not to leave. I quickly looked over at Madison who had tears in her eyes and I stopped the movie instantly. She then looked over at me and started balling and said "I wanna go hug daddy" (who was in his office at that moment) So we went and she hugged her daddy and told me that she didn't want her daddy to leave like that. {tear} We all three shared some hugs and a little reassurance to Madison that daddy wasn't going anywhere.

So this movie and that moment got me thinking. Sometimes husbands and wives have challenging moments but I am so grateful that in my life and our marriage that there is NOTHING that would make us cause that sort of pain on our girls. NOTHING! I am so happy and it is so comforting knowing that our family life is so great. Don't get me wrong...I know that we will have many bumps in the road and that things can change at the drop of a hat since in a marriage no one is 100% in control. But I do know that I cherish every day and love my life, my husband and my children and I will do anything that I can to keep it this way.

1 grandmother + 2 parents + 8 children/spouses + 13 grandchildren all in a 20 mile radius

2010-08-08T19:01:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Texas David, Tracy, Zachary, and Kaylee!!! I spent the day helping my sister move here from Florida. After many years of talks of a move, it seemed it would never happen but it finally has and we now have 1 grandmother, 2 parents, 4 children plus spouses, and 13 grandchildren all in a 20 mile radius. (if I am counting correctly) I am excited that we are finally all together and that my girls will grow up knowing their cousins. Hopefully they will form some close bonds. What a wonderful family life we all have and we are so lucky to have 2 awesome parents!!!

So what does 1 + 2 + 8 + 13 = ???

MY FAMILY

What I see, hear, and feel from here

2010-08-08T10:50:00.000-07:00

While blogging or working from home, I see many things and have many distractions. Here are a few pictures of such things that I saw just yesterday.

A four year old who has been playing dress up and now needed help getting the dress off. Doesn't she look lovely? :o)

I then got distracted by this sweet little picture that the girls and I made daddy and thinking what the next 5, 10, 15, 20 years will be like in our house with 3 girls.

I then hear the giggles of two little girls who decided that it was a good idea to bring in the house a creature that they found outside. Quickly followed by the screech of one who found out that it bites.
(pictures after I got them to pick it up off the living room floor, put in a tub, and take outside)

What is it??? Look closer...

Oh yes...a TURTLE. Couldn't they have just found a lizard, or something normal???

Lets not forget that there is another little girl in this house who needs to be entertained and cared for while I blog....so what do I do with her while I try get stuff done on the computer? Many things, but yesterday she spent it like this for a while.

Life as a mommy... it's so much fun!!! {grin}

Baby's Big (little) Bumbo

2010-08-07T20:53:00.000-07:00

Did someone say Bumbo??? Yep...that's right....Hayden tried out her Bumbo for the 1st time today and even at 2 months old she is still pretty young and small for it but she did beautifully. With a little help from her blanket that I placed under the front of it to lean it back a little to keep her head from falling forward.

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And yes...the little hair that she does have seems to have a reddish tint to it. I wonder if we are going to have three girls with three complete different hair colors. hmmmm...I guess only time will tell. :o)

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HA! I love this one...she was staring so hard at her hands she crossed her eyes. cracks me up. :o)

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I think this next pic of Hayden has to be one of my favs so far. I don't know why but it just makes me happy.

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Lovin' me some sweet baby feet.

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HA...daddy walked in the room and rubbed her cheeks as he walked by....its not the best picture but I like how it shows how small she still is compared to daddy's hand.

Mommy, Daddy Date Night

2010-08-07T15:23:00.000-07:00

Last night Schuyler and I got to go on a date. We went to dinner, then went to see a movie (which we yawned all the way through because it was past our bed time) and then determined to prove to ourselves that we are not "old farts" we went out and had a few drinks before heading home. I think mommy, daddy date nights are pretty important for the soul.

It was a nice change to be able to hold the hand of someone other than a little girl. Then when he placed is hand on my leg during the movie I felt like a giddy teenager again. Then as we were walking out of the movie, he held the small of my back and I was in heaven. Men....they can sure make a woman feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Can't they?

I love you honey. Thank you for our date, it was nice to reconnect as a couple and not just mommy and daddy. - At least for a few hours {grin}

8 year old pics

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

Skyler will be 8 this month and I am beside myself. 8....Really? {tear} I let her pull out some new school clothes and take a few pics this afternoon. I just love this little girl. :o)

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Hayden's 2 Month Dr. Visit

2010-08-03T12:08:00.000-07:00

Hayden at 2 months is 9lbs. 9oz. (25%) & 23in. (75%)

Hayden took her 4 shots as well as you would expect any baby to, and it always breaks my heart to watch them in pain like that. :o( Developmentally she is right on track...smiling all the time, follows objects and sounds with her eyes and turns her head, and sleeping through the night. She has been (knock on wood) sleeping through the night for about a month now and I am LOVIN' it. The last 3 nights she has been sleeping from 10pm to 7am and that makes for a very happy mommy. :o) I am keeping my fingers crossed that she keeps it up, especially when I return to work the end of this month. She has been the easiest, most laid back and happiest baby of the three so far.

Here is my happy baby before her doctor appointment and shots.

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Such a happy baby

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Can smile at the drop of a hat.

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Then she got 3 shots and one liquid immunization by mouth and.....

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not such a happy baby anymore. :o(

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Ok, she calmed down with the help of the binkie and some lovin from mommy.

Someone is 2 months old

2010-08-02T12:06:00.000-07:00

It's Miss HAYDEN!!!

Yogi Bear 2010

2010-07-31T18:02:00.000-07:00

I braved it and took all three girls to Yogi Bear by myself. It actually went really well and I can say that Hayden was the best baby. It in the heat and sun all day and NEVER cried. It was amazing.

Check out this CRAZY moonwalk they had. Madison was even too afraid to go inside it.

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Sisterly love was all around this day. Sooo nice to see.

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Hayden really enjoyed slinging with mommy, it worked out great since it kept the sun off of her and kept me mobil to keep up with Skyler and Madison. Gotta love her too big bucket hat that worked like a charm at keeping the sun off of her bald little head..

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awwww...now this sisterly love melts my heart. :o)

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My little bathing beauty wore a bathing suit for the 1st time and went in a pool for the 1st time as well. She did great in the pool....I guess she wouldn't notice when the pool was as warm as bath water. Gotta love Texas.

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Check out Madison coming down this really huge waterslide by herself. The first time, she walked up all of the stairs carrying her mat all the way to the top and was too scared to do it so she walked all the way back down. Then later in the day after watching Skyler do it many times she decided to give it one more try. she got to the top actually laid on her mat this time then started yelling "I can't, I am scared" then some strange man walked up behind her and pushed her. HA! At the bottom she said "That was fun but I was a little scared" Cracked me up!

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My three babies. {grin}

Hayden 7 weeks old

2010-07-27T05:45:00.000-07:00

Mom's 60th Birthday

2010-07-26T22:17:00.000-07:00

In honor of mom being born in 1950 we decided to throw her a 50's sock hop theme birthday party. It was great to see the whole family, and horseshoe and pool volleyball was so much fun. Happy birthday mom...I love you!

Summer Lovin'

2010-07-26T09:36:00.000-07:00

Summer Lovin' for me, at this moment means.... family. I am lovin' this summer.

SeaWorld 2010

2010-07-23T15:04:00.000-07:00

We took a small family vacation to San Antonio last weekend and we all LOVED IT! LOVE IT!!! We went to SeaWorld Saturday then did the river walk and Ripley's Believe it or Not Sunday before heading home. I was a bit worried about all 5 of us staying in a hotel room for 2 nights but I pleasantly surprised. It went great. Luckily Hayden has done wonderfully with the "Mommy Shelley's Baby Sleeping Boot Camp" and is sleeping through the night almost every night for about 2 weeks now. (knock on wood) At home she is now sleeping in her crib, in her room, from 10pm until about 5:30 am. At 7 weeks I call that a huge success. Yipee! :o)

Below are some pics of our trip...I didn't get as many pictures as I would like since a lot of the time I was slinging Hayden, caring for another child, enjoying myself or swimming...so...taking pics fell to the way side.

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Me, Madison and Hayden waiting for Skyler and daddy to ride the super big rollercoaster.

Daddy and Skyler on the rollercoaster.....yes my 7 year old daughter who can cry at the drop of a hat, rode thise rollercoaster and did it twicw. Once with daddy and a second time with mommy. WOW!!!

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These next few were at the totally awesome Shamu show....I could have watch that show about 3 more times, it was soo pretty.

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ha.....the goofy face she gave when she saw that I was taking a picture.

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Hayden was at the show too. :o)

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All three whales get together and splash the crowd.

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Skyler and Madison sat down in "The Splash Zone" and got soaked. They are down towards the bottom left in this picture.

Madison got scared and was upset that she was soaked eventhough she was warned. :o)

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Skyler on the other hand LOVED IT ALL....see her in the orange towards the bottom?

Sad Sad day

2010-07-21T09:37:00.000-07:00

Last Friday night an arson started a fire at my work and since we make some very flamable products, the place went up in flames and explosions very fast. It was a total loss, has affected about 60 employees and 2 wonderful owners who started the company from scratch some 20+ years ago. So very sad.

http://www.click2houston.com/news/24293999/detail.html#video

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Dear 2003 Shelley,

2010-07-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

Dear 2003 Shelley,

It is 2003, you are 24 yrs old, and you are currently spending your days working and taking care of your soon to be one year old daughter, Skyler. Even though life is rough as a single mother, you are enjoying every minute of it and taking such great care of that beautiful little girl. If memory serves me right you are enjoying being on the open market again, going on dates, having a blast with friends, and just enjoying life. I sure wish you would listen to your mother and not get in over your head in that rather nice, rather expensive apartment. As mom said...you can stay at home with mom and Walt a little while longer until you get more on your feet.

Secondly, you will soon meet a guy while out to dinner with friends and you won't pay attention much to this meeting. You will be too busy talking to your friend, your mind will be on your daughter who is to be dropped off to you at that very restaurant shortly, you will be wondering if you are over dressed for that restaurant and you will completely ignore this new guy beside you at the table. PAY ATTENTION! Even though he is a little quiet for your liking and may come across shy, causing him to fade into the background of your busy and event filled life.... PAY ATTENTION! He may be wearing clothes that will appear to be a few years old and a little out dated but....PAY ATTENTION! He very well may be the most amazing man that you have ever met and have a heart of gold. PAY ATTENTION! So my advice to you, my past self - when you meet this man, immediately listen to your friend, e-mail him first thing the following morning and let god take it from there. No matter how hard it may be to believe at that first meeting but PAY ATTENTION to him because if you let him in, he just might actually be your soul mate and love of your life.

Lastly, do something about that bleach blond hair you have....it is starting to look horrendous. :o)

Love,
2010 Shelley

Taylor....I mean..Madison Swift

2010-07-09T11:08:00.000-07:00

On a typical morning I can find Madison in her panties watching and singing to her Taylor Swift video CD while playing her guitar. And yes she has panties on. :o)

Today I caught her doing it with actual clothes on. She totally LOVES Taylor Swift and has some awesome moves. :o) I even got a video of it this morning too. Soooo stinking cute. :o)

1 month check up

2010-07-08T13:53:00.000-07:00

Today I took Hayden for her 1 month check up (at 5 weeks old) and she is doing GREAT. She is very healthy, growing perfectly, and took her shot like a champ.
She is 8lbs 8oz. (25%) and 22 in. long. (75%) Tall and skinny. :o)
She is on a pretty good nightly sleeping schedule...eating about 10pm, 2am and 6am. Pretty do'able for me. :o)

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Getting a nice warm bath before her Dr. appointment.

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All dressed and ready to go to her Dr. appt.

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Here we go, off to her 1 month appointment...she is growing up tooo fast. All three of them are. {tear}

July 4th 2010

2010-07-07T17:31:00.000-07:00

We took our annual trip to see Schuyler's family in Tyler and had a wonderful time. We love going each year and each year it gets better.
2008 trip http://kutinafamily.blogspot.com/2008/07/annual-4th-of-july-trip-to-tyler.html
2009 trip http://kutinafamily.blogspot.com/2009/07/july-4th-2009.html

It was Hayden's 1st road trip and 1st visit with his side of the family. Uncle Paul and Robyn are so generous to open their home to so many members of the family and for entertaining all of us. I will let the pictures do the rest of the talking. {grin}

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Schuyler's cousin Amanda really helped with Hayden.

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While everyone was out in the boat it started raining and here they are coming in during the rain.

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Schuyler's cousin Mathew was lovin' on Hayden.

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Schuyler's cousin Bryan and the girls....the girls were sure smitten with Bryan.

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Schuyler's uncle Paul and Hayden

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My mother-n-law stayed at the house and watched Hayden while we went out int he boat to watch the fireworks.

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Schuyler's cousin Michael and girlfriend Katie

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Schuyler's unncle Jimmy and Hayden

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Dinner Time

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Play Time

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Madison on the long walk from the boat house to the house

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Skyler and Kayla

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My mother-n-law and Hayden

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Skyler loves her baby sister. :o)

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My three little girls. {grin}

Dear July....Hayden is 1 month old and we will be traveling

2010-06-30T14:06:00.000-07:00

We are excited about the month of July - we are either brave or crazy (or both) but we plan on some pretty big outings in July. For July 4th we plan on taking our annual trip to Schuyler's unlce Paul's house on Lake Tyler. We have not missed a 4th there in about 5 years and we aren't letting a little thing like Hayden only being 4 weeks old stop us. :o) We are all pretty excited since we always have so much fun on the lake and spending time with family. This will be the first time that any of them will see Hayden other than Lynn so I expect she will get a lot of snuggle time. {grin}

Then two weeks after that we are heading to Sea World!!! Wooohoo. I haven't been to Sea World since I was a little girl and Skyler and Madison have never been. They don't know what to expect but I know they will LOVE IT. I just pray that Hayden does ok in a hotel room and in the heat. We shall see. :o)

life in black and white

2010-06-30T13:37:00.000-07:00

I was given a sit-n-stand stoller by some dear friends and we love the heck out of it. Madison loves the freedom to climb in and out as she pleases and to be able to stand on it...well...she feels like she gets to break the rules. :o) Here is what they look like on one of our walks.

Hayden who is now 4 weeks old, has been getting to know her great-grandma pretty well on Wednesdays while I do payroll from the house. It has been nice to have her here as the helping hand on those days.

Happy 1 month, Hayden!!! We Love You!

Summer Days

2010-06-29T14:42:00.000-07:00

We spent the morning in the library then this afternoon we decided that a little slip-n-slide action was in order. So slip-n-slide we did.

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Hayden relaxed in the shade while the big girls played.

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Socks off to let these cute little toes breath.

Today

2010-06-28T14:00:00.000-07:00

Today was a nice and busy day. After all of us girls had breakfast we went for a walk around the neighborhood and boy was it hot, even at 9am. After the walk we watered the yard and plants and came inside to enjoy the AC. While Hayden napped and the girls colored, I cleaned out and rearranged the office which was a huge undertaking. At one point the entry way was so full of stuff from the office that I couldn't even get to the front door. I am glad that I got it done since I think it looks a lot better...more like an office rather than a cluttered catch all room. Then Skyler went to her friend Hannah's to play while Madison and cleaned up a bit and started dinner.

Other home rearranging news...We rarely use our formal dinning room other than when we have parties and larger groups over for dinner so for now I have covered our very nice antique dinning room table with the protectant pad and table cloth and we have now transformed the dinning room into a "classroom". This is where the girls have been coloring, doing crafts, practicing school work (to keep their brains going) and reading their library books. It is working out much better than our kitchen table since we were having to clean everything up to eat meals then pull it all back out again. It was a vicious cycle that I was not very fond of. {grin}

Things have been going pretty smoothly and we are figuring it all out as we go. :o)

Mamaw's chamber retirement luncheon

2010-06-28T07:49:00.000-07:00

Mamaw's retirement luncheon went great. She looks beautiful and it was such a blessing to hear all of the wonderful things that the people of Magnolia had to say about her. From what I hear she has touched so many lives and hearts during her years serving Magnolia ISD and then the Chamber. Here are a few pictures from the luncheon.

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Almost 3 weeks old

2010-06-22T14:53:00.001-07:00

Hayden is almost 3 weeks old and today we spent the day at the park and snuggling on the couch. :o)

Hayden stayed in the shade while the girls played, but when it is 9am and 90 degrees out even the shade is pretty hot. Gotta love Texas. :o)

Oh my, as soon as I saw this sweet snuggle action going on I had to grab my camera. Just melts my heart. {grin}

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Here she is...my 3 week old baby. She is getting so big. :o)

2010-06-22T11:00:00.001-07:00

Look at this special luncheon that they are throwing for my grandmother.

MACC to "HONOR" Ms. Evelyn Cloyd at the June Member Appreciation Luncheon
Thursday, June 24th
Shhhhh.....It's a Surprise!
Believe or not, Ms. Evelyn Cloyd has decided to retire from her longtime leadership role and active employment with the Magnolia Area Chamber.

She has been serving the members of the Chamber and the community for over 30 years!

You may remember her from the Magnolia School District or as a City Council member.

If you have been around Magnolia very long, you know that this talented young woman has been an intergal part of the leadership of here!
All that know her, love her and you either call her Ms. Evelyn, Ms. Cloyd, or Mom - but definitely you call her "friend" and you know your life has been blessed when you spend a few moments with her.

Please join us on Thursday, June 24th from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the MISD Celeste Graves ESC, 31141 Nichols Sawmill Rd, Magnolia - as we extend our Appreciation to Ms. Evelyn and our valued Chamber membership.

FREE lunch - (Hamburgers, Hot Dogs & all the fixins)

Life in the slow lane

2010-06-21T13:07:00.001-07:00

So life in the slow lane...meaning staying home with my girls this summer...has been pretty nice so far. Don't get me wrong, having a 7 yr old, a 4 yr old, and a 2 week old baby home has been almost as much work as actually going to my paying job every day but it has been much more enjoyable and rewarding. By slow lane I mean not having deadlines to meet, not much rushing from one place to another, more time to focus on my children and their needs/wants, and a lot less yelling on my part. I have realized that our days were full of....

"hurry up, we are running late"
"we don't have time for breakfast, you'll have to eat at school"
"It may past your bed time and you are tired but we just got home from (insert sport name, grocery store, etc.) but you have to do your homework and there is no time for a shower before bed"
"hurry get in the car so that we can go get your sister, go home get cleaned up and meet (insert family or friends name) for dinner"
"no, I can't go your school program or field trip because I have to work"
"no, you can't wear that because it is not clean since I haven't had time to do laundry"
"I'm sorry your sick but I can't stay home with you so you will have to go to grandma's today"
"Lets have fast food because I haven't had time to go shopping or cook tonight" (and we always end up eating way too late)
"babe, your story is way to long and I don't have time to listen to this whole thing, hurry up and get to the point" (so sad)
ohhhh....hummm....yep lots and I am sure that there will be lots more of that when I go back to work in lat August. But for now....the girls and I are loving every minute that we have together.

Now our days are now mostly full of....
"yes, you can stay up a little past your bed time"
"yes, we can go to the library, park, for a walk, to swim, etc."
"I don't wanna stop tickling you"
"We have dinner plans tonight so lets read this book, or play, or paint this picture now before we have to start cleaning up and get ready for dinner"
"You (or daddy) wants (insert dinner name here) tonight? Ok, lets go shopping now so that we can have dinner ready when daddy gets home from work"

I must say....it sure has been nice. I love my babies and being able to actually enjoy them and not have to rush from place to place has sure made my patience level go way up. Now playing pretend karate fighting in this kitchen with my girls while I cook doesn't seem to bother me as much as it did before. :o)

Weekly happenings

2010-06-17T12:58:00.001-07:00

Here is a little snippet of our weekly happenings. :o)

We went for a little dip in my mom's pool while great-grandma kept Hayden inside and enjoyed rocking her in the rocking chair. (which she loved) {grin}

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We took another trip to the library to return some books, check out more books and go to the Mad Hatter Science Program. Notice the girls sitting on the front row? :o)

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Towards the end he chose some volunteers to help him build a rocket...Skyler was chosen as a helper and she was soooo excited.

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Then we went outside to watch the rocket.

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See how high the rocket went?

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Then we came back in and the girls play some learning games on the computers while I fed Hayden in a nice quiet reading corner.

While there the girls decided to join the Kids Summer Reading Club. Once they are done reading a certain number of books this summer they turn in their reading logs and get an award. goodie bag and a free book. They are pretty excited and so am I since it encourages them to read....and read they are doing...in the car on the way home they each finished a book. :o)

Hayden's 1st bath

2010-06-16T09:19:00.000-07:00

Hayden's cord finally fell off and she was able to take her 1st bath. Both Skyler and Madison cried/screamed during their 1st baths but Hayden...well she slept. :o)

Books, Books and more Books

2010-06-15T15:36:00.000-07:00

The girls and I took a trip to the local library. It was nice to get us all out of the house and in doors since it has been so hot out. Skyler and Madison got their 1st library cards, checked out some books, played some computer learning games, and watch/listened to books on the computer. We are defiantly going to be going back a lot this summer since there are a lot of other activities there as well. Here is a picture of them showing off their cards. :o)