The Myers Family Chronicle

Happy Valentine's Day!

2012-02-14T21:07:00.006-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day from our family!
We had a busy day today. The girls had their Valentine's parties at school, which were a lot of fun...and they both got way to many treats from all their sweet friends!!
Then lunch, nap time, dance class and dinner....AND THEN FINALLY the much anticipated Annual Myers Family Valentine Scavenger Hunt!!

First Clue!
Into the guest bedroom...

the laundry room...

the dinning room...

team work up in the playroom...

Vivian's room...

Noel's room...

and finally the Valentines loot in the bathroom!

I think they are excited about the balloons!!

Dancing to the music from Vivian's balloon!

a hug to show how much she is loving it!

then a thumbs up with Daddy!

MY SWEET VALENTINES...boy, am I a lucky girl!!!!

Daddy Daughter Date Night 2012!

2012-02-11T20:32:00.004-06:00

If you have a little girl in Auburn, AL then you know about the Daddy Daughter Date Night. To say it is a big deal, might be an understatement! The tickets go on sale in December...I was there to buy ours at 9:30am the first day they went on sale and I stood in like for at least 45minutes. It is nuts, but in a good way! This is Vivian's first year to go, so we have all been super excited about it. She and Kasey are still there dancing the night away, but I wanted to go ahead and post these sweet pictures. Kasey took our little camera with him, I am hoping he remembers to use it and I can post those later.

Vivian's corsage. Vivian was excited to see them but wasn't too excited to wear hers. We will see if Kasey convinced her to wear it once she got there.

Little Miss Purple picked this dress, of course. I think she looks precious!

Sweet Girl!

Silly Girl (for all you sorority girls out there...is she totally ready for the "crazy pose" or what!?)

Checking out Daddy's matching tie!What a good looking crew!!

A Snapshot into the Future!

2012-02-07T21:05:00.002-06:00

I think this is a scene we are going to see a lot in the future! Noel, for sure, thinks she is supposed to be in that bed with Vivian. I am just imagining once she is out of her crib, there will be a lot of late night sneaking into bed with her big sister! What a Blessing it is to have a big sister...I know I have the best one in the world!!!

Viv's New "Crib!"

2012-02-05T15:59:00.004-06:00

My sister has been hounding me about not posting lately. She says my blog is so boring and I need an update! So, I wanted to show you my excuse for being MIA lately. Drum Roll Please...
Mom and I have been working like crazy to get Vivian moved upstairs to her New "Crib!" Kasey has been a great help too, we would put him to work each night when get got home!
I am so proud of how it turned out and Vivian loves it! We still have little things to do here and there but overall it is done!

We also changed the upstairs bathroom to make it super girlie! I am still looking for a shower curtain but the clear one will have to do for now.

The girls wanted to "help" with everything...we did whatever we could to keep them distracted and keep them out of the way. At one point they were laying together in Noel's crib reading books. I thought they looked super cute!

I also have redone the guest room. Once I get that all the way settled, I will post pictures! It is turning out great too!

CARPE DIEM...

2012-01-18T15:29:00.006-06:00

I saw this article on FaceBook. I shared it on there with my friends but wanted to share it on the blog to those of you who are not on FaceBook. This article rang so true to me. This woman could not have said it any better!!! WARRIOR ON SWEET MAMMAS! Enjoy!

"Every time I'm out with my kids -- this seems to happen:
An older woman stops us, puts her hand over her heart and says something like, "Oh, Enjoy every moment. This time goes by so fast."
Everywhere I go, someone is telling me to seize the moment, raise my awareness, be happy, enjoy every second, etc, etc, etc.
I know that this message is right and good. But, I have finally allowed myself to admit that it just doesn't work for me. It bugs me. This CARPE DIEM message makes me paranoid and panicky. Especially during this phase of my life - while I'm raising young kids. Being told, in a million different ways to CARPE DIEM makes me worry that if I'm not in a constant state of intense gratitude and ecstasy, I'm doing something wrong.
I think parenting young children (and old ones, I've heard) is a little like climbing Mount Everest. Brave, adventurous souls try it because they've heard there's magic in the climb. They try because they believe that finishing, or even attempting the climb are impressive accomplishments. They try because during the climb, if they allow themselves to pause and lift their eyes and minds from the pain and drudgery, the views are breathtaking. They try because even though it hurts and it's hard, there are moments that make it worth the hard. These moments are so intense and unique that many people who reach the top start planning, almost immediately, to climb again. Even though any climber will tell you that most of the climb is treacherous, exhausting, killer. That they literally cried most of the way up.
And so I think that if there were people stationed, say, every thirty feet along Mount Everest yelling to the climbers -- "ARE YOU ENJOYING YOURSELF!? IF NOT, YOU SHOULD BE! ONE DAY YOU'LL BE SORRY YOU DIDN'T!" TRUST US!! IT'LL BE OVER TOO SOON! CARPE DIEM!" -- those well-meaning, nostalgic cheerleaders might be physically thrown from the mountain.
Now. I'm not suggesting that the sweet old ladies who tell me to ENJOY MYSELF be thrown from a mountain. These are wonderful ladies. Monkees, probably. But last week, a woman approached me in the Target line and said the following: "Sugar, I hope you are enjoying this. I loved every single second of parenting my two girls. Every single moment. These days go by so fast."At that particular moment, Amma had arranged one of the new bras I was buying on top of her sweater and was sucking a lollipop that she must have found on the ground. She also had three shop-lifted clip-on neon feathers stuck in her hair. She looked exactly like a contestant from Toddlers and Tiaras. I couldn't find Chase anywhere, and Tish was grabbing the pen on the credit card swiper thing WHILE the woman in front of me was trying to use it. And so I just looked at the woman, smiled and said, "Thank you. Yes. Me too. I am enjoying every single moment. Especially this one. Yes. Thank you."
That's not exactly what I wanted to say, though.
There was a famous writer who, when asked if he loved writing, replied, "No. but I love having written." What I wanted to say to this sweet woman was, "Are you sure? Are you sure you don't mean you love having parented?"
I love having written. And I love having parented. My favorite part of each day is when the kids are put to sleep (to bed) and Craig and I sink into the couch to watch some quality TV, like Celebrity Wife Swap, and congratulate each other on a job well done. Or a job done, at least.
Every time I write a post like this, I get emails suggesting that I'm being negative. I have received this particular message four or five times -- G, if you can't handle the three you have, why do you want a fourth?That one always stings, and I don't think it's quite fair. Parenting is hard. Just like lots of important jobs are hard. Why is it that the second a mother admits that it's hard, people feel the need to suggest that maybe she's not doing it right? Or that she certainly shouldn't add more to her load. Maybe the fact that it's so hard means she IS doing it right...in her own way...and she happens to be honest.
Craig is a software salesman. It's a hard job in this economy. And he comes home each day and talks a little bit about how hard it is. And I don't ever feel the need to suggest that he's not doing it right, or that he's negative for noticing that it's hard, or that maybe he shouldn't even consider taking on more responsibility. And I doubt anybody comes by his office to make sure he's ENJOYING HIMSELF. I doubt his boss peeks in his office and says: "This career stuff...it goes by so fast...ARE YOU ENJOYING EVERY MOMENT IN THERE, CRAIG???? CARPE DIEM, CRAIG!"My point is this. I used to worry that not only was I failing to do a good enough job at parenting, but that I wasn't enjoying it enough. Double failure. I felt guilty because I wasn't in parental ecstasy every hour of every day and I wasn't MAKING THE MOST OF EVERY MOMENT like the mamas in the parenting magazines seemed to be doing. I felt guilty because honestly, I was tired and cranky and ready for the day to be over quite often. And because I knew that one day, I'd wake up and the kids would be gone, and I'd be the old lady in the grocery store with my hand over my heart. Would I be able to say I enjoyed every moment? No.
But the fact remains that I will be that nostalgic lady. I just hope to be one with a clear memory. And here's what I hope to say to the younger mama gritting her teeth in line:
"It's helluva hard, isn't it? You're a good mom, I can tell. And I like your kids, especially that one peeing in the corner. She's my favorite. Carry on, warrior. Six hours till bedtime." And hopefully, every once in a while, I'll add -- "Let me pick up that grocery bill for ya, sister. Go put those kids in the van and pull on up -- I'll have them bring your groceries out."Anyway. Clearly, Carpe Diem doesn't work for me. I can't even carpe fifteen minutes in a row, so a whole diem is out of the question.
Here's what does work for me:
There are two different types of time. Chronos time is what we live in. It's regular time, it's one minute at a time, it's staring down the clock till bedtime time, it's ten excruciating minutes in the Target line time, it's four screaming minutes in time out time, it's two hours till daddy gets home time. Chronos is the hard, slow passing time we parents often live in.
Then there's Kairos time. Kairos is God's time. It's time outside of time. It's metaphysical time. It's those magical moments in which time stands still. I have a few of those moments each day. And I cherish them.
Like when I actually stop what I'm doing and really look at Tish. I notice how perfectly smooth and brownish her skin is. I notice the perfect curves of her teeny elf mouth and her asianish brown eyes, and I breathe in her soft Tishy smell. In these moments, I see that her mouth is moving but I can't hear her because all I can think is -- This is the first time I've really seen Tish all day, and my God -- she is so beautiful. Kairos.
Like when I'm stuck in chronos time in the grocery line and I'm haggard and annoyed and angry at the slow check-out clerk. And then I look at my cart and I'm transported out of chronos. And suddenly I notice the piles and piles of healthy food I'll feed my children to grow their bodies and minds and I remember that most of the world's mamas would kill for this opportunity. This chance to stand in a grocery line with enough money to pay. And I just stare at my cart. At the abundance. The bounty. Thank you, God. Kairos.
Or when I curl up in my cozy bed with Theo asleep at my feet and Craig asleep by my side and I listen to them both breathing. And for a moment, I think- how did a girl like me get so lucky? To go to bed each night surrounded by this breath, this love, this peace, this warmth? Kairos.
These kairos moments leave as fast as they come- but I mark them. I say the word kairos in my head each time I leave chronos. And at the end of the day, I don't remember exactly what my kairos moments were, but I remember I had them. And that makes the pain of the daily parenting climb worth it.
If I had a couple Kairos moments during the day, I call it a success.
Carpe a couple of Kairoses a day.
Good enough for me."

Daily Life!

2012-01-17T15:38:00.005-06:00

So far this month we haven't had any "major" events to attend. We have just been staying busy and trying to come up with inside activities since our weather hasn't been great. I am so thankful the girls continue to play well together and can help keep each other entertained!
Here are some of what we have been up too!

Playing with our baby dolls!
Noel is very much into getting them all out and setting them up just the way she likes them!

Having a GIANT tea party!

Attending two of our friends' Birthday Party!

Playing golf with Daddy when the weather cooperates!

SHOPPING!!! I think Noel is going to be my hoarder!

Playing our Sock Monkey game. The girls LOVE this. If your kids like to play games, then this one is a must! They both love it and it is easy enough that Noel can play with us.

I wanted you to see the box in case you want to go buy it. I think I bought mine at Wal-Mart...it was a total impulse buy for Christmas but then later I saw it recommended in two kids magazines. Don't worry, if you have boys they have one that has a blue sock monkey too!!

Playing lots of dress up! Check out this outfit! My accessory girl!!

Miss Cupcake and her trusty horse!

"Push Your Own Baby!"

2012-01-09T15:10:00.003-06:00

I HAVE to share this story! When I went to pick the girls up from school today, the teachers could not wait to tell me what happened at school today! It is too funny and sweet to not share! They said that today the girls where in Kidz Zone (which is the big inside play area at their school) and both of their classes where in there playing. We have a friend who also happens to have a little girl that is in class with Vivian and a little boy that is in class with Noel. Well, the little girl that is in Vivian's class pushed/bumped Noel and she feel down. Vivian did not like this one bit and came over and said, "Cate that was not nice. DON'T push my baby down...go push your own baby down!" Is that not hilarious!!?? What a protector!!

I thought I would post this picture to show how sweet they are to each other. I have also caught Vivian lately kissing and hugging on Noel especially if we are out in public....almost like she wants to show off like she is her Big Sis! AND if you know Vivian you know she doesn't throw hugs and kisses around very easily!!

Merry Christmas to ALL!!

2011-12-27T21:06:00.013-06:00

We have had a wonderful Christmas Holiday...and we hope you all have too! We have been super busy but have also had so much fun spending time with my family up on Pickwick Lake!

I thought Vivian looked like a Russian doll in this hat and coat Bunny got her!
Poppy bought the girls a train set. They LOVED it...now I am just going to have to work on him to get the HUGE train set out that his father had!!! Come on Poppy, you can do it!!

Kasey bought me, Bunny and Aunt Sissy these super cute aprons in London. We lived in the for about 3 days while we were cooking and baking for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Or at least they cooked and I just looked cute! Ha!!

Bunny bought the girls these cute "Santa's Little Helper" aprons! They loved them and loved to help!

Aunt Sissy and Vivian have a special tradition of making a Gingerbread house...they let me help this year!

Check out there house! It was amazing!!

Sweet Sisters in front of the Beanie Baby Tree!

Out for a Scavenger Hunt!

Freddy!!!

A tractor ride with our friend Kemper!

The Gingerbread House with our Train!

Bunny and Lisa on Christmas Eve!

Aunt Sissy and JJ!

Noel babysitting Campbell!

Our Dirty Santa Group Picture!

Lisa and Campbell!

Sprinkling our Reindeer Food out on Christmas Eve!

Setting out Santa's treats!

Noel thought she might have a little bit herself!

Christmas Morning!

So excited about her Dollhouse!

Of course me little accident prone baby would be excited about a new Booboo Bunny!!

This little one can ride a scooter!!!

Uncle Brent's new t-shirt!

Noel's new Tool Bench! Yes, we love tools too!!

Poppy and Bunny got them a tractor to leave at the lake! They loved it!

Sweet Noel!

On Christmas Night we celebrate our Birthdays. It is still crazy to me that we are both Christmas Day Birthday Girls!!!!

Birthday Girls!!

Bunny and Poppy...and their Baby Freddy!

Aunt Sissy bought the girls these cute robes...I was trying to get a cute shot..Vivia thought it was funny to bite her sister's hair!! What a goofball!

What do Christmas Babies wear??

2011-12-21T21:33:00.002-06:00

Stockings, of course! Well, that is in the hospital on their birthday!
This one is mine!

This one is Noel's

A PJ Visit with Santa!

2011-12-16T14:43:00.005-06:00

This morning at the girls' preschool, they had a visit with Santa. They got to wear their PJ's and have a special treat at school too. They were both very excited to change out of their pajamas they slept in, into more pajamas to go to school! I thought they looked so darn cute, that of course I wanted a picture! They would only agree to hug and take a picture in front of the tree. These two really are so in love with each other...of course they have their moments, but overall this is the way they feel about each other. We are lucky in that respect for sure!
Then they informed me they wanted a picture in front of the house. I tried to convince them to sit in front of some of out decorations, but this is where they wanted to sit!

Then Vivian started "reading" Noel a Christmas book. I thought they looked like I had posed them this way!!!

The sweet teachers took these pictures for me of Noel. I can't believe they got her to sit in Santa's lap. They can truly work magic on this little one!! She did tell me she was going to sit on his lap, but I figured it wouldn't happen when she got there!

This expression is priceless! What do you think she is thinking?? "OK, I'll sit in his lap...but I am not really going to like it!!"

This is Vivian's sweet class!!!

I also took mini cupcakes for Noel for an early Birthday treat with her class. She enjoyed it!!!

My Little Mistletoes!

2011-12-15T13:47:00.002-06:00

This craft was definitely not my idea...I borrowed it from another blog I like to follow. She had done hers on a plate and given it as a gift. I had a canvas and thought it would be cute to have as a keepsake to decorate with each year! I thought it turned out really cute and the girls had fun making it because they got to use their feet and fingers...and I let them choose the finger print colors on the light bulbs!

Cornerstone Christmas Program 2011!

2011-12-13T15:39:00.004-06:00

This morning was the girls Christmas Program at their preschool. They were both very excited and even more excited when Bunny and Poppy showed up just for the day to see their performance! Yes, they drove 4 1/2 hours both ways just to see their granddaughters sing! I hope they both know how much it meant for them to be there! The program was as cute as ever. The teachers and kids had worked so hard, and you could tell it!
This was Vivian preforming one of her songs...hand signs and all!
This was Noel's class on stage. She didn't take her finger out of her mouth the whole time but she did jingle her bell very well! I was so proud of her little class, not a single one of them got upset on stage!

We got the chance to take class pictures after the program. Note the finger still in her mouth!

Class shot! Aren't they just the cutest!!!

Vivian's class!

Check out the cute t-shirts they made!

Bunny and Poppy came for the program, we ate lunch, came to our house to visit a bit and then headed back home! wwwhhheeww! We can't wait to go visit them next week!

Bunny and Vivian!

Freddy came too...sporting his new sweater. He loves it!!

Christmas Crafts!

2011-12-09T15:25:00.004-06:00

I haven't been posting many crafty blogs lately...so I thought I would share these SUPER easy ones that really don't take any thought. I bought these kits at Target. They are back in the Christmas section and are only $2 each. The Angel one creates one ornament but the Beaded Tree makes two! This time of year I don't have that much time to come up with my own ideas so a simple craft like this is perfect! I really like the Angel one because it helped Vivian work on hand eye coordination, we talked about shapes and sizes and talked about Angels and the REAL Reason for the Season! You can't beat all that in one simple craft!!!
Vivian was enjoying herself...and Hamming it up!

Working Hard!

Final project. It is really cute! She was proud to hang it high on the tree so "Noel wouldn't get it and mess it up!"

Future Ballerina or Goofball?? You decide!!

2011-12-08T13:51:00.003-06:00

When will I learn...

2011-12-07T16:17:00.004-06:00

When something seems too good to be true, then it probably is!??!!! Let me explain. When we got home from school today, we ate lunch and had a little chill time. This is normal for us because after that, it is time for Noel to go down for her nap. Well, today during our "chill time" the girls started playing in Vivian's room. Vivian requested that I put her mattress up like a pirate ship. She sleeps in a toddler bed, so I just prop the mattress against the wall and then she pretends it is a pirate ship. I was trying to get some laundry folded and the girls were playing. I could hear them talking and there was no fussing or fighting going on, so I just decided to leave them be. They have really started to play well together...meaning Noel is much more interested in actually playing together and not just taking toys or getting hurt. I am folding and thinking to myself, wow this is great! THEN, about 15/20 minutes later I decide to peek in on them. And this is what I found....
They had pulled EVERYTHING out of Vivian's drawers and toy baskets and put them in the Pirate ship! My choice, either freak out at the mess (this picture truly doesn't do it justice) or go take a picture of these sweet faces! I opted for option number two!!

I made Vivian show off her empty drawers!

After this, I put Noel down and then Vivian and I did some major cleaning up! Hey, it did make me weed out some clothes I needed to put away for when Noel is big enough for them!

Our Family Tradition!

2011-12-04T16:32:00.002-06:00

You didn't think I was going to go a day without a post, did you?? Ha! I wanted to share our family Christmas picture! We have taken a picture with this Santa each year since Vivian was born. I love getting all the pictures out and comparing them. It is just amazing how much the girls have grown. Merry Christmas!!

Christmas Happenings!!

2011-12-03T17:41:00.014-06:00

As you can tell by the number of post I have posted recently...we have hit the ground running this Holiday Season! This morning we went to the local Feed and Seed store and got to visit with Santa riding a John Deere Tractor. Only in Alabama!! We had lots of fun and saw lots of friends there.
This is the snap shot I got of the girls before we left. Check out their shirts, I made them!!
Family Shot...we all participated since Noel would not let go of me!

Then during Noel's naptime, Vivian and I headed with Jill and W.C. to "The Polar Express"

Check these two out! What sweet friends!!

Jill and W.C working on a craft!

Vivian posing for a picture for me. What a HAM!!

W.C and his reindeer puppet!

We also met up with Luke and Jamie! Luke and Vivian working on their puppets.

Vivian found her name, Luke's and W.C.'s on Santa's Nice List!!

W.C. wanted to make sure to have photographic documentation of his name on the list!!

Jill and W.C. listening to Mrs. Claus reading "The Polar Express"

So Sweet!!

Mrs. Claus and Vivian Vivian learning how to make Reindeer food!!

We also got to see part of the Nutcracker Ballet!

W.C having a private conversation with Santa! The three Amigos!

Then outside to the train and jumpy castle!

Silly, Silly!!!

Merry Merry!!!

2011-12-02T21:31:00.008-06:00

Check out our Tacky Outfits!! Our dinner club had a tacky Christmas party, it was a blast!
Some sexy ladies!!

We played Dirty Santa with "white elephant presents!" Kasey fought for these monkeys...they will not be coming into our house! I hope they look nice in his office! :)

The group. Kasey will not be allowed to take the group pictures in the future! Ha!!

Tonight Jamie and I took the kids to Monkey Park in Opelika to ride the train and see all the Christmas decorations and activities! This was the first year they did this, and I thought it was great! If you live in the area, you should check it out!!

Vivian, Gingerbread Man and Luke!

Riding the Rocky Brooke Train!

My fearless child was a wee bit unsure about the train ride. She enjoyed it but was holding onto me like a little baby monkey!!

Santa's Elfs at Santa's Workshop!

Checking the mail in Santa's Mailbox! Vivian has now informed me she wants to write Santa a letter!

They has entertainment....of course this groups had to boogie down!

Playing on the playground!

We are ready for the Holidays!

2011-12-01T14:52:00.003-06:00

We have the house decorated and the Christmas clothes out...and are ready to spend time with family and friends during this amazing time of year. Wishing you are yours the Happiest of Holidays!

It's Great to be an Auburn Tiger!!

2011-11-27T14:17:00.004-06:00

This weekend was the Iron Bowl! Unfortunately my Tigers did not win...but if you are an Auburn fan, you understand that Win or Loose, it is ALWAYS Great to be an AUBURN TIGER!! War Eagle!!
Our friends had an Elephant Roast!!!!!!

Sarah Beth and Vivian. They were not very willing to have a picture taken! This was the best we got!

Spirit March!

Sweet Girls and Daddy!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T21:53:00.004-06:00

...so very thankful...so many reasons to be thankful...feeling very blessed...today and everyday with my wonderful family! Hoping you and your family had a very Happy Thanksgiving! Gobble Gobble!

Homecoming 2011!

2011-11-22T14:25:00.008-06:00

This past weekend was Auburn's Homecoming Game. My sorority hosts a Homecoming Tailgate each year for the Alumnae. My group of friends tries to come back and meet up with each other on this weekend each year. Unfortunately this seemed to be a bad weekend for most but my two best friends and their kiddos where able to make it! We had a BLAST!! I am already looking forward to next year!!

Friday night we headed to downtown Auburn for the Homecoming parade. Check out all of these cuties!
Whitney, Grace, Vivian, Hollye Anne, Noel and Henry!
We also ran into Jamie and her boys!

Saturday morning we loaded up early and headed to campus. The girls preformed a quick Auburn cheer before they got in the cars!

AND a cheer when they got out of the cars!

They had face painting at the tailgate. Grace went all out! so cute!!

Our crew!

Our crew at the Spirit March!

A quick picture with Elvis, of course!!

Whitney and her girls!

Vivian and Whitney cuddled up for the ride to see the Homecoming Floats!

Sweet kiddos!

D.I.R.T.Y

2011-11-15T15:37:00.016-06:00

If being dirty is an indicator of having a good time...then the girls had a great time at Uncle Brent's Farm! Thanks Uncle Brent and Aunt Sissy!
Walking out to the duck pond

Picking up sticks...who needs toys anyways!!??

Noel was glad to help too!

Elizabeth Taylor the cat joined in on all the fun!

Chasing a duck!

Tractor races with Aunt Sissy!

Riding the Four Wheeler with Aunt Sissy

Feeding the Cows with Uncle Brent

Why can't I drive??

A trip to Granny's Farm. I tried to get some good shots of the girls...

Riding some electric cars at John's Car Shop.

Vivian pulling Collier

Vivian and Uncle Brent

Sweet Girl!

Aunt Sissy and Peggy

As soon as Noel woke up from her nap, she was ready to play...didn't even take time to take off her jammies!!

Vivian LOVED this tractor

Who is walking who??

I caught 2 catfish!

Very serious fisherwomen!

Four Wheeler ride with Poppy and Bunny!

Poppy and his baby, Freddy!

Hay Ride!

Vivian and Collier put on a singing and dancing show for us!

Noel the scooter Queen. It is unreal how this tiny girl can ride a scooter!!!

Happy Halloween 2011!!

2011-11-01T14:26:00.009-05:00

Halloween Carnival on campus!

Halloween Carnival at Cornerstone!!

Halloween Night. First stop....trick-r-treating at our house....Bunny was handing out the candy!

Beautiful Indian Wedding!

2011-10-31T15:08:00.004-05:00

This weekend Kasey and I attended an Indian wedding of a friend of his from High School. It was such a beautiful event and we are so happy for the Bride and Groom.

The grooms mother bought and gave away traditional Indian clothing for the Wedding Ceremony. It was so fun to get the wear these beautiful clothes and learn a bit more about the Indian customs. We had a wonderful time. Check us out!!
Kasey pretending to walk the groom in on the horse. This horse was enormous and had two handlers to make sure he was well taken care of!

Kasey and his buddies!

Blake and me...representing in our Auburn colors! haha!

This is my Henna tattoo that I got at one of the events on Friday night. It was such a fun experience. They say this will last about 2 weeks. I am loving it!!!

Fall Festivities and Fun!

2011-10-22T15:32:00.016-05:00

Winter has always been my favorite season...but Fall is really starting to rub off on me. Check out all these fabulous festivities we have been attending, and this weather, well...it has just been beautiful here on the Plains!

On Friday we attended the William's Annual Halloween Party- Of course, always a blast!
Vivian and Winsley (Fairy and Little Mermaid!)
Noel enjoying herself as a butterfly!

The Annual street parade!

I can just imagine this in about 12 years!!!!!!!!!

Today we went Syrup Soppin' in Loachapoka with the Hedges. They are the current experts on the event and this was our first time!! We had a blast!

Vivian and W.C riding the horse that was squeezing the cane, making the syrup!

Soppin' some Syrup!!

The kids could have cared less about the syrup but enjoyed poking a bug on this tree with sticks...remind me again why we buy toys!

The current Queen and King of Syrup Soppin'!!!

W.C on the bungee! We were shocked the kids really did this!

Vivian getting suited up!

So high!

Then they rode a pony! His name was Graham Crackers!

Vivian loved it!

Then we took some time to listen to some music. The kids got their groove on!!

W.C. had some moves!!!!!!!!!!!!

Noel showed she could boogie too!

After we left Syrup Soppin', we headed to the pumpkin patch!

Sunflower Field!

Sweet Girls!!

A Girls' Gameday!

2011-10-15T20:47:00.008-05:00

Daddy is in England so Mommy had to step it up today and make sure we had a fun Girls' Gameday! We started the morning off with watching the band practice. We met up with the Hedges and the Donaldsons so of course we had a fun time!
As you can see Vivian and WC were taking in all in!
After the band was done, they all got to check out the band leaders poll thingy (yes, that is the correct term! Can you tell I was never in the band!!??!!) They thought it was AUsome. If we would have let them, they would have all been marching around with it!

We then headed over to the Donaldson's for lunch. They had family in town and were nice enough to include us! Then home to nap and then up again and off to campus for the Spirit March!

The girls and I grabbed a quick shot with some of the Flag Girls. The sweet girl was nice enough to offer Vivian to hold the flag. She was too shy to do it...I wanted to grab it and march around myself, but thought I better not!

Then as everyone else was heading into the game we headed over to the Chick-fil-A in the Haley Center and got some dinner. We just happened to run into Christi and Jackson Weeks. It was perfect timing, the kids had fun playing and eating together. Then they headed to the game and we wandered around...anything to wear two Energizer Bunnies out before bedtime!

Say cheese!!

Look at that little cutie pie!

They decided it was a good idea to roll down this hill. They haven't quite perfected their roll direction yet! BUT they had a blast...we spent a good 15 minutes doing this!

One last quick picture with Aubie!

The girls are now in bed and I am getting to watch the last quarter of the game. I am multi tasking so I don't get too worked up over it! WAR EAGLE!!!

Beach Trip with the Donaldson!

2011-10-14T21:04:00.010-05:00

The first weekend of October we took a trip with The Donaldson's. We had a blast...the place was SUPER NICE...and of course the company was even better!

Jamie bundled up under this quilt on the beach, while the kids played in their swim suites. I informed her that she needed to gain some weight to combat this problem!!
Burying Vivian!

We went to this game/race car place after dinner. Of course the kids loved it!!

Race cars!!

If I remember correctly, these two beat everyone else!!

The next day we went to the playground in the morning!

Then on to the beach!

Vivian loved "surfing" on the boogie board!

These two were digging to China!

Raptor Center Visit at Cornerstone!

2011-09-27T15:28:00.004-05:00

First Family Football Game!

2011-09-26T15:27:00.005-05:00

On Saturday we took both girls to the football game...this was Noel's first game. We lasted until almost halftime (it was a night game). We had fun!

Vivian fell asleep in the stroller walking to the game! If I could just convince this little lady to take a nap every now and then!! Please note the GIANT bow...I have decided "the bigger the bow, the closer to heaven!" HA!
Since Vivian was sleeping. Noel got all the Donaldson boy's attention. She was eating it up!

I mean ALL the attention! :)

Family shot. Vivian was not so thrilled as she was still waking up.

Sweet Noel. Very excited about all the festivities!

This is how I felt most of the game. They girls enjoyed it, but it is hard for little ones to sit still!

Vivian and Daddy

LOOK at these two. Are they not just the cutest???!!!

It's a beautiful day on the Plains!

2011-09-24T11:38:00.002-05:00

What is better than getting up and going to a yummy pancake breakfast with some of your best friends???
Also getting to have a balloon sword fight with them...AND THEN...

Getting a BIG 'OLE HUG from Aubie!!!!

and a quick girls shot with him too! WAR EAGLE y'all! Let's got get 'em tonight Auburn!!

more pictures to come....we are taking the whole family to the game tonight. It will be a first for us!!

Team "Big Blue Towing" Game #1!!

2011-09-22T14:41:00.004-05:00

Last night we had out first Soccer Game. Vivian and I were both excited to get our uniforms and play our first game! We ended up with white shirts, a bit boring but they will do! Vivian was not so thrilled as she was hoping to be on the Purple team!! I have to coach two fields of three on three. It is very interesting but also a lot of fun. I am so thankful I have 4 college students helping me! Vivian did not want to play at first, if you know her well, you know it takes her awhile to take situations in before she is ready to participate. She decided she wanted to play for about the last 3 minutes! I was just proud she got out there...and glad she was proud of herself...talking with her after the game, you would have thought she was the star! I am fine with her thinking that, I hope all the kids on my team felt that way!! Here's to a great season!!

This is Vivian and me discussing the uniform color, as you can see she was still not convinced that white is better than purple!! What a girlie girl!!
Luke and Vivian discussing their play strategy!

Go Vivian!

Our team huddle at the end of the game!

Look at that smile! She was very proud of herself!

My assistant coaches! LOVE THEM!!

Thanks Meme and Popsie!!

2011-09-22T14:07:00.002-05:00

Thanks Meme and Popsie for our new slide!! The girls are loving it!

Meet Freddy!

2011-09-20T15:44:00.007-05:00

Meet Freddy, the basset hound...the newest addition to the Evans/Myers Households! Let me explain. My Dad found Freddy (oh yeah, and he doesn't know this is his name yet...but I think he is getting there!) at their house (up on Pickwick Lake) about 3 weeks ago. My parents have tried to find his owner but noone has turned up. He obviously had an owner because he is in such good shape, but they are nowhere to be found! I am starting to think he was dropped down there by someone that could no longer take care of him. SAD!! Anyways, a dog is the last thing any of us needs but he is so dang cute and has such a great personality, we decided we couldn't let him go. So at this point he is at our house. The plan is when my parents geriatric dog passes, they are going to take Freddy. Let's just say it is a team effort! The girls love him. He is so sweet to them and doesen't get bothered by anything (Well, he doesn't particularly like the vaccum but other than that, he is chill!). You will have to come meet him!

Check out that face!
Noel pretty much thinks she is his boss. She tells him where to sit and when to eat. I guess she finally found someone she is bigger than!

We bought him a bed this weekend. The girls where happy to show him how to use it! Oh, and on a side note...Noel ate (part of) a dog treat that looked like a cookie at the pet store! It was rediculous and I am petty sure the lady at the check out was feeling sorry for me with the two girls and the dog! Never a dull moment around here!

Cuddle Time!

I caught him napping like this on the back deck. I think he is comfortable here!

Freddy's First Photo Shoot!

Give Them and Cheer, Give Them a ROAR. Vivian and Luke are Turning FOUR!!

2011-09-13T14:30:00.009-05:00

This past weekend we had Vivian and Luke's 4th Birthday party at Frog Legs. They had an Auburn themed party and they had a BLAST!! Here are some pictures from all the fun! (Vivian's birthday is actually tomorrow!!)

Coach K!!

2011-09-08T15:11:00.003-05:00

Yesterday Vivian and I started "our" first season of Soccer! Yes, you read that correctly...OUR first season, I am the Coach! We had our first practice last night. We have 11 players under the age of 6! It was a bit like Herding Cats (as my Dad would say), but I think overall it went well and the kids had fun! I have 4 college students helping me, and boy am I thankful for them! Here's to a great season!! (PS- Kasey is addressing me as Coach K now!!)

Uncle Brent's Farm!!

2011-09-05T21:07:00.018-05:00

This past weekend I took the girls to West Point, MS to Uncle Brent's Farm! We have talked about going for awhile now, and it finally worked out for us to go on this long weekend. We all had a blast and think we may have to make it an annual trip!

We got there Friday evening and Noel instantly fell in love with Elizabeth Taylor the barn cat! This is one of many of their deep conversations!
Vivian was so excited, she was just silly!!

Saturday morning we got up and got ready to go to the Prairie Arts Festival in town. That evening the Trulove's were coming out to the farm to celebrate Peggy (Brent's mom) and John's (Brent's stepdad) birthday....Vivian got in the Spirit early, as you can see!

We met up with Tanya, Collier and Peggy at the Festival. This is the girls on the train ride!

Aunt Sissy, Tanya and Peggy on the train!

Spraying the Fire hose!

Back at the farm, ready to party! Vivian was obsessed with this stuffed bobcat!

Saturday afternoon we went out to feed the cows...

and the donkey. This one is named after me!! I am sure you can guess why!

Feeding the donkeys!

I named this cow, Ace. He was super friendly. I think he is in love with Uncle Brent!!

Helping Aunt Sissy make the salad!

Noel took a great nap and then got up and was ready to play!

Peggy and Vivian cutting up apples to feed the donkeys!

Peggy taking the girls on a wagon ride!

Another sweet moment with Elizabeth Taylor!

More deep conversation!

Some more kids came out for the party. The girls where happy to ride!

Feeding the donkeys!

Best group shot I got!

Driving the tractor!

Walking on the Hay bails!

Dessert!!!

Sunday morning it was rainy...but we made the most out of it...

Man, she loves this cat!!

It cleared up enough for us to go feed the ducks!

Bath time!! These girls played hard and got DIRTY!!!!!

ARE YOU READY???...

2011-09-02T09:39:00.003-05:00

For some Auburn Football??? WAAAARRRR EAGLE!!!!

I Spy....

2011-08-24T20:59:00.003-05:00

a little girl that still needs a nap!! Vivian is usually the energizer bunny...but RARELY it does catch up with this little bunny. This afternoon she was eating her early dinner before she went to dance class, Noel and I were playing in the floor next to her, I looked up and saw this!!
She was OUT!

Day at the Lake!!

2011-08-22T15:28:00.005-05:00

On Saturday we spent the day at Jamie's parents lake house. We had a great time!! Thanks for having us!
We beached the pontoon boat and went for a dip!
PawPaw and the boys!

We headed over to Chimney Rock to see if we could watch anyone jumping. Noel and Jamie found the ICE CREAM BOAT. Can you believe it?? What a great idea!!

I think she liked it!

Luke and Vivian going for a ride!

Bounce, Bounce!!

Me and Noel!!

Check Kasey out! I was impressed!!

Dancing Darling!

2011-08-17T21:44:00.003-05:00

Another year of dance has begun!! She was hamming it up for these pictures!

School Day, School Days...Good Old Golden Rule Days!

2011-08-15T15:27:00.002-05:00

The girls started school today. Vivian started in the Three Year Old Class and had a BLAST! She loves her new class and new teachers! Noel did great in Carpool line. Her teacher came and got her out and their wasn't a single tear- what a relief to Mommy! When I went to pick her up she had shed a few tears during the day, but the teachers told me they felt like it was the appropriate amount for her first day. She got upset when she saw Vivian, so I am hoping she can work through that. Overall I think it was a great day and I am so proud of these little sweet peas!

Meet Your Teacher Day!

2011-08-12T14:17:00.003-05:00

This morning the girls got to go meet their new teachers and see their classrooms. They are both going to go Mon, Wed and Friday mornings. I am very excited about their teachers! Noel seemed to just feel at home when we got there. I am hoping this will be the case when I drop her off on Monday! Vivian was very excited about her new teachers and her new classroom. We are excited about all the wonderful things she will learn this year. I decided to try to get some shots with them and their teachers...Noel was up for it (even though there was no smiling) but Vivian decided she wanted to wait and take pictures on Monday- we will see about that! She is so anti pictures lately!

Mrs. Kristi and Noel! Mrs. Kristi is an AMAZING artist, I can't wait for all the crafts!!!!
Mrs. Jill and Mrs. Laura. They are going to be so much fun! I know Noel will love both of them!

Fabulous Wedding Weekend...Fabulous Flower Girls!!

2011-08-08T14:25:00.013-05:00

This past weekend we were able to join our (old) sweet sitter, Tori, for her wedding weekend in Charleston, SC. She was so sweet to ask the girls to be flower girls in her wedding. We decided to make a family trip of it and make a couple stops along the way. We had a great time and of course felt lucky to be able to a part of Tori and Ben's special day!

On our way we stopped in Stone Mountain, GA to enjoy the views and spend the night. It is a very neat location and we hope to go back in the Fall when it cools off!
Vivian checking out the views from the top of Stone Mountain.

Lots of fun!

It was a little hazy, but you could see pretty far away....much better than it seems from this picture.

Family Shot. Don't you just love how Vivian is hiding!

Sweet Sisters...on their way to the Laser Light Show!

The next day we headed to Charleston...in time for the Rehearsal. The girls were very excited to see Tori and to get to practice! This is the beautiful chapel!

The girls!

On to the wedding day! Noel and Vivian practicing their down the aisle walk!

Practicing with Sweet Rachel. They both just adored her!

The flower girls: Rachel, Vivian and Noel. Don't they look beautiful??!!

More practicing!

Check out that concentration!

Getting to see Googee in her wedding dress for the first time! She looked stunning. I could just kick myself for not getting a picture with her....I didn't get many shots of her, I guess because we were so busy trying to make sure the girls weren't getting into any trouble!

Check out Noel...looks like she is going in for a kiss on handsome little Braxton!

"Who Me?"

So dang cute!

The girls getting hydrated for the big event!

Getting their game faces on!!

This was the only shot I got during the wedding. As you can tell, Noel was not much into sitting still!! Overall, I felt like the girls both displayed age appropriate behavior!! I will tell you by the end of the wedding Vivian was laying on the bottom step using her flower ball as a pillow. It was cute...I didn't mind, as long as she was quiet! I am hoping the photographer got a shot of her!

Tori and all her kiddos. So dang sweet! This picture sort of sums Tori up...she is just drawn to kids and kids a drawn to her! It is no wonder we love her so much!

A sweet moment between Googee and Vivian!

Then the crew was ready to get their groove on!

Pure preciousness!!

The amazing couple!

More dancing!

This girl can get down!!!

Sister Love!

2011-08-02T21:41:00.003-05:00

Can you tell Noel ADORES her Big Sister! I tell Vivian it must be nice to have someone think everything you do is amazing and funny! I am so glad they do love each other so much!

These Boots...

2011-07-22T14:33:00.006-05:00

Are Made For Splashin'!!!
And That's Just What They'll Do!!

We have had so many rainy days lately...so we decided to make the best of them and put a few miles on our rain boots! The girls had a blast and it was a great way to run off some energy after being cooped up in the house all morning! Thank goodness for our neighbors french drain...it makes the best place to splash!

Head in the water too!

So silly!

Now fully body action!!

She was so thrilled that I just let them roll around in the water!

Happy face!

Then they took of their boots, since they were full of water...and ran "in their feet" as Vivian would say!

What do you do when it rains all day?

2011-07-18T10:28:00.006-05:00

You make a Fairy House...decorate it...then decorate your sister of course!!
Glue, paint, sticker.....

Put the stickers in just the right spots on your sister!!

Noel thought it was funny!

Not sure why she is sucking in to show off her stickers!!

Cousins, Cousins, Everywhere!!!

2011-07-05T14:36:00.007-05:00

So, this has been the summer of cousins! And boy has it been a great one! This past long weekend, my cousin Rhonda and her family came all the way from Oklahoma to visit us. It was so nice to get to spend time with them (especially since this very rarely happens!). I am sitting here thinking how thankful I am that we were able to catch up with them and they were able to get to know my girls better. I think now that I am a Mom, I sort of gauge everything in this way...is this normal?...or am I getting sentimental in my old age?? Well, whatever the reason, I sure am thankful for their visit...and hope that it will become an annual trip!

John and Rhonda on the boat

Noel and Mommy
Rhonda and Hallie
We took the boat up to Mill Creek Marina and had lunch.
Hallie entertaining the girls!! They LOVED her!!!!
Bunny and Hallie
Eating catfish at Haggy's! Yummy!
Hallie entertaining the girls again....not sure why Bunny's pantry is so fun...but everyone seems to love to play in it!
Some sprinkler time!
We spent one morning playing on a rope swing into the lake- we had a blast...we went back in the afternoon and it was flooded with people, so we tried this one. It was a total flop, but I thought this picture was super cute!! (no pictures from the first rope swing b/c a certain someone left my camera at the house...you know who you are!! Hehehe!!)
Matt, John and Hallie
Rhonda being a goofball! She is going to kill me for posting this...but it is funny!!!
Group shot!
Hallie doing some more entertaining!!

Happy Fourth of July!!

2011-07-04T14:28:00.002-05:00

Lucky Shot...

2011-06-28T15:05:00.001-05:00

I got lucky and got this shot of Vivian at the golf course the other day. I am in L.O.V.E!!

Halfy Birthday to Noel!

2011-06-25T14:21:00.000-05:00

June 25, 2011...I can't believe my little baby is 18 months old. Wow, time sure does fly. So here we are celebrating her 1 1/2 Birthday! The tradition was started last year and it looks like it has stuck! We decided to have a Splash Bash for her since she loves the water so much! We had water tables, pools, rainbow sprinklers and a giant Daddy made Slip-N-Slide. The kids all had a blast, especially Noel! Halfy Birthday Sweet Sweet Girl!!

Tracy, Trevor, Noel, Reese and WC

Noel and Reese

Gathering her buddies together for a little splash around! Trevor, Clarke and Noel

Sweet Noel!

Daddy was a good sport "bowling" all the kids down the Slip-N-Slide!

Splish Splash!

She is fearless!

Cameron

Allie

Allie again!

Vivian got in on the action too!

Allie and Noel

WC and Noel

Sam and Trevor...I love this face Trevor is making as he walks through the water!

Girl Pool!

Family Shot!

I think Noel enjoyed her cake!

Vivian did too!

A quick rest in the shade before round two of the Slip-N-Slide!

Coan, Noel and Olivia

Vivian, Noel and Cameron

Daddy "bowling" Noel!

I think she enjoyed the ride!!

It's her Birthday...and she can do what she wants too!

After her nap, she opened her presents....in her Birthday suit!

Look at that sweet face!!!

Airport Visit!

2011-06-24T15:22:00.005-05:00

This morning we got to go tour the Auburn Airport with a group of Mommies. It was really neat to see all they have done out there...I was shocked how many planes fly in and of the airport! It was a busy place. We learned about how the airplanes are gassed up, got to sit in a plane, learned how to "flag" in a plane and we got to see one of the Auburn University planes. We had a great time!

Me and my girls!
Noel, our future pilot!

She is pointing at a plane that was taking off!!

Winsley directing the planes!

Coan learning too!

Noel needed some help!

Jackson learning too!

Phenix on The Bay, Orange Beach Trip!

2011-06-23T15:19:00.007-05:00

For Father's Day weekend we headed down to Orange Beach with Kasey's family. We stayed at Phoenix on the Bay and had a blast. Vivian and Noel were so excited to see their cousins and Aunt and Uncle that we only get to see about once a year. The pool was awesome and we all had a blast!
Georgia, Lilly and Vivian
Dancing in the Splash Pad!

We went to the beach one afternoon. Noel and Daddy

Georgia, Noel, Hannah, Lilly and Vivian!!

Kevin and Kasey

Kasey, Meme, Popsie and Kevin

Little Surfer Girl!

Night swim!Noel getting ready to go down the slide!

It took until the last day to get Vivian to go down the slide, but once she did it we must have gone 50 times!

Hannah

Mommy and Noel

Daddy and his girls!

The group in the lazy river

Cousins...Cousins...Everywhere!!!

2011-06-14T15:26:00.001-05:00

Two weeks ago we were able to spend the week at my parents house with my family and my extended family from Oklahoma. My aunt, uncle, cousin, her husband and their three kids came to visit us. We don't see them very often so it was a great time to catch up and let the kiddos get to know each other better! We had a fun and busy week!

This was our first attempt at a kiddo group shot!

Check out that smile of Andrew!!

Pure sweetness! I want to eat her!!

Boat ride...cool dudes!

Checking out the "bear cave"

Vivian just wanted to do whatever the boys did.

Lots of bubble playing!

...and lots of jumpy jumping!!

...and pool playing!!

...and sprinkler playing!!

Check out the three matching swim suites...and we didn't even plan it!

Sweet Andrew!

Cousin love!!

Noel is a water baby!

We had a Fiesta party on Saturday night. The Campbell's-our close family friends also joined us!

Andrew

Noel

Noel and Mommy

Abbie

Then we played pin the tail on the donkey!

Jacob

Kristin (aka Aunt Sissy)

Prego JJ...she is due really soon...doesn't she look great!!

Bunny even got in on the action!

Jacob

Noel and Daddy We had a Pinata for the kids. Noel got the first hit since she was the smallest!

Kemper got a great whack!

Vivian did great too!

Jacob cracked it open at the end...fun for all!

Group shot before the tractor ride!

Poppy loves to drive his new tractor!

Enjoying the lake. Abbie, Ashley and Jacob

A dip in the lake!

Wild Animal Safari- ROAARRR!

2011-05-25T21:53:00.008-05:00

This post is long overdue. There were so many fun pictures of the animals that I wanted to share, I kept getting sidetracked when I was downloading them! Anyways, a few weeks ago we went to the Wild Animal Safari in Pine Mountain, Georgia. We had such BLAST!!! We will definitely be making a day trip over there once a year. A few pointers if you want to go...1. go when it has not gotten too hot yet (no air in the cars) 2. Get there when they open...the animals are hungry and ready to greet you 3. Rent one of their vans...just look at the pictures and you will see why you don't want your own car in there.

Our Mini Van

A Strawberry Picking We Will Go!

2011-05-24T15:26:00.009-05:00

This past week (on one of the cool days we had) we went Strawberry picking with some friends. This is definitely something we will do each year! The kids had a blast and the strawberries were AMAZING!!!!!!!
W.C -so proud of his strawberry!

My little strawberry picker!

Jackson, W.C. and Vivian finding the perfect one!

Then they found a dirt pile to play in!

Now a strawberry field race! This was just the cutest!

Vivian

Jackson

W.C. They all ran their little hearts out...smiling and laughing the whole time! JOY!!

A sweet snack with a sweet friend before we headed home!

Let Summertime Begin!

2011-05-15T14:46:00.019-05:00

We got home on Saturday from a trip to Seacrest Beach. Oh, what a wonderful week. We could not have had nicer weather, a more fantastic house, more beautiful beaches and pools...and most importantly a better time with the most amazing family in the world! This is our Fourth year to take a May beach trip with my family and I think this was the best one yet! I have added lots of pictures...I tried to pick just a few but with a trip like this, it was hard. We are looking forward to a wonderful Summer, what a way to get it kicked off!

Noel and I ready to head to the beach!
Vivian pretending to surf!

play, play, play...that is after she got over the initial sock of feeling the sand!

Sweet little thing!

Sandcastle time!

Uncle Brent and Aunt Sissy- best ever!

Strolling around Rosemary Beach

Noel and Daddy on the pier.

Mommy, Noel and Bunny

Attempt at our first family picture!

Then Kasey and the kids and I headed over to Pier Park for dinner and a few rides! Noel's first carousal ride!

Mommy gets to ride with both girls since Daddy gets sick! I love it!

Vivian rode in the plane all by herself...this made me a bit nervous!

The balloon ride!

Poppy by the pool!

Water Baby!

There were several little girls that Vivian made friends with - this was lots of fun!

What a Beach Babe!!

Looking for Seashells!

We brought this little baby pool for Noel to play in on the beach. It worked out great. She played and played in and around it

A dip in the ocean...and some bunny ears??!!

Building a sandcastle and playing with another friend!

Our Annual Family picture on Grayton Beach, followed by dinner at the Red Bar!

Sweet Sisters!

I could just eat those toes!

Daddy and Vivian!

The girls!

ALL the girls!

Family Shot!

At the pool the next day! This pool was great for kids. Lots of BIG steps to play on, fountains and waterfalls. The kids had a blast!

We all really enjoyed the water this year. Even Bunny got in to play!

Eating dinner at Louise Louise. The girls found this flamingo highly amusing!

I just thought this was a cute shot!

Check her out! Chillaxin!

Taking a break for a snack!

Tea Time!

Lunchtime at Wild Olive in Rosemary Beach

Then we played at the Splash Pad at Seacrest Beach!

Poppy and Bunny- One of the views from our many decks off of our house! Check out the pool in the background!

Sweet Vivian...she is getting so grown up. Boohoo...

Our last day on the beach!

Our sandcastle masterpiece, complete with seaweed bushes and all!

I am pretty sure Noel would have stayed in the raft all day!

I just loved this one too!

Bravo, Bravo!!

2011-05-02T15:15:00.013-05:00

This past Sunday, Vivian had her very first Dance Recital. She started taking dance last August and it has been a learning experience for me as I have never taken a dance class in my life. Vivian has really enjoyed it and I have too. The recital was so much fun and Vivian did really well...for a 3 year old that is!! Mommy and Daddy are very proud of her!

Putting her stage makeup on...this was definitely new for me! I had to have a friend come show me how to do her bun and her makeup!
Waiting for the Recital to start. This is her first outfit- ballet!

Vivian and Daddy!

Quick twirl to get warmed up!

She is in the back row...second from the right!

She is ready!

How cute is that??!!

Doing great!

The twirl!

Second outfit- Tap!

Check out her moves!

Backstage! She was holding her ears because all the tap shoes were loud. I thought that was so cute!!

Vivian and her sweet friend, Reese.

Winsley and Vivian. Winsley is in a different class. Not sure why Vivian is so serious, I think she was over getting her picture taken!

Proud Momma!

She was SO EXCITED about her flowers!!

Some yogurt to celebrate...note: she wouldn't let her flowers out of her sight!

Her flowers and her first trophy!!

We HEART Aubie!

2011-04-30T15:22:00.000-05:00

Noel's New Look!

2011-04-29T15:38:00.002-05:00

Noel loves to wear her bike helmet and her life jacket...and for a baby who is super active and climbing on things and falling all the time, this is not such a bad look!!

Happy Easter...Glorious Day!

2011-04-24T20:34:00.016-05:00

We had a wonderful Easter Weekend, the weather was just beautiful and it was so nice to have time to reflect on how blessed we truly are. We had lots of family (meaning just the four of us) time and we were also lucky enough to have Kasey's parents come see us Sunday afternoon.

Easter Baskets...
Egg Hunt...

Two Eggs were enough for Noel!

The "girl shot" at the Moore's Mill Easter Egg Hunt.

Family Shot. This one cracks me up...Vivian was sleepy b/c she needed and nap and Noel was still sleepy b/c we woke her up from a nap!

Everyone was happy to see the Easter Bunny!

We were shocked Noel was not scared of the Easter Bunny. She liked to give him "high fives!"

Vivian jumped right in to get her eggs!

Look at that sweet face!

Noel teamed up with Daddy for the Hunt!

I really wanted a good shot of the girls together b/c they looked so pretty in their green dresses and I haven't gotten a good one of just the two of them in awhile. This was just about the best one I got!

Second try, with Mommy...as you can see Noel was just not in the mood to pose!

Tried to get one with just Vivian...no smile from her!! Oh well, at least I tried!

The girls had fun running and smiling!

Check out the hair flip!

One last twirl with Daddy!

Kiesel Park Easter Egg Hunt!

2011-04-23T22:09:00.009-05:00

Saturday morning we took the girls to the Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Kiesel Park. Vivian has gone to this hunt since she was a baby, so it is a family tradition for us. The weather was so beautiful we even packed a lunch for after the hunt!

We meet up with the Donaldson's. This was the best group shot I got!
Luke loving on Noel...not sure which Myers girl he likes best!

Sweet Noel!

Our Family shot!

Patiently waiting for the hunt to begin!

Of course, somehow I got the camera on black and white! AARRR!!!

Sweet friends!

We even ran into our friend Winsley!

Luke taking Vivian on a wagon ride!

Mommy and Noel at our picnic spot!

What a RASCAL...thanks Jill for that perfect name!

Vivian's School Easter Party!

2011-04-23T08:58:00.006-05:00

Vivian and all her sweet friends before the Easter Egg Hunt out on the playground!
"Mommy, look what I found!"

Action shot!

The Easter Bunny stopped by to visit. Vivian LOVED him!!!!

I had to grab a shot with him too!

Vivian's awesome teachers. Mrs. Amber and Mrs. Amy

Vivian's big time buddy, Ethan! Such a sweetie!

Busy Little Bunnies!

2011-04-20T14:26:00.014-05:00

We have been Busy Little Bunnies around the Myers house! It seems like as the weather is getting warmer the more activities we have planned. We have been having a blast!

Noel and Vivian driving in their "new" barbie jeep. I found this at a yard sell around the corner from our house. They have had so much fun with it...I am just hoping it will hold up through the summer and we will have easily gotten our $25 out of it!
This is Noel playing in our sand and water table. Another fabulous hand me down from our awesome neighbor. Besides the jeep, this is by far Noel's favorite thing to do. She will stand and play at this table forever. Looks like we will be spending lots of time out on our deck this summer. Also, she has decided to give up her morning nap, so this is a great activity for her while Vivian is at school. Just look at that smile!

Sweet Girl! 15 months!

Noel also loves to run away from you as you are trying to get her dressed. She just belly laughs and squeals as you chase her around! This shot was her running from me...at some point she picked up a necklace...I just thought it was so cute, I had to share!

Last weekend we participate in the Annual Art Walk for Children. It was a fun time. Noel and Kasey grabbed a quick picture with Aubie!

Vivian and Luke opted out of the walking and rode the entire time with PawPaw!

Then we headed over to the Vet School Open House. We got to see lots of animals. How hilarious is this picture...I think they have matching hair in the wind!

Sunday night we had our First Annual Egg Hunt with my Mommy Group. I made these Easter Dresses for the girls...you will see them again, b/c I decided they are their official Egg Hunting dresses for the year!

Daddy and Vivian

Sarah and Sally, Me and Noel

Vivian and Winsley hunting eggs!

Sweet Friends!

Attempt at a group shot!

On Tuesday Morning we attended another Easter Egg Hunt with some friends. (Same dresses/same playground!!)

Different group of kids!!

We bribed them with cupcakes to take the group picture!

Tuesday afternoon we headed to a friend's In-Laws Barn. WHAT A BLAST!!

Cosby and Noel- the hat sisters!!

Noel LOVES the cozy coup!

Vivian rode on TWO different big horses. She absolutely loved it. I think she would have stayed forever!

Noel got a turn on the pony! She was so still and quiet. I think she was just taking it all in!

Pure sweetness!

Our BooBoo Got A BooBoo!

2011-04-05T22:08:00.001-05:00

OK, so let me explain...but first I want to apologize to all of you that have called, email and texted to check on Noel....and I am sorry that you had to find out she got a booboo by hearing from others or seeing posts on Face book. It has just been a crazy last few days and hard to keep everyone up to date! OK, so here is what happened. This past Saturday we decided to pack the troops up and head to the Santuck Flea Market in the morning. I have always wanted to go check it out and Saturday was a beautiful day AND Kasey was actually not working. We headed out early and got there by about 9am...we were there long enough to use the restroom and look in ONE booth...Kasey was carrying Noel, a man in the booth next to us , set something on the ground next to Kasey's feet. Kasey did not see it and stepped back and tripped over it. He was sort of able to catch himself on one knee but in the process, Noel went falling forward and landed right on her forehead. The ground we were walking on was that old kind of pavement with the rocks in it, unfortunately her head hit right on a rock. AS you can imagine it was a scene with lots of crying and bleeding. We got some medical attention from the medics on site. They suggested we head straight to the Emergency Room to get her looked at. On the way to the ER we got stuck in traffic from the Flea Market, it was a nightmare. Noel was very upset and started shivering, so we decided to head straight to the Wetumpka ER since it was the closest, although we would have much rather gone home to our ER or Pediatrician. The Wetumpka ER was a nightmare...to make a long story short they ended using Dermabond (liquid stitches) on her head. They did take x-rays and everything looked fine. We left there after lunch. On the way home, Noel was SO SUPER TIRED (and she is not able to nap in the car) she got hysterical. In the process her head got a huge bump under the injury and it started bleeding a lot. It was super scary and the longest 20 minutes of my life. We went straight to our pediatricians office to have her looked at. Once she was out of the car and was able to settle down, the bleeding began to stop. The Doctor looked at it and said we just needed to let it heal and try our best to keep her from bumping it. This is no easy task with our little busy body! Everything went well on Sunday (minimal bleeding) and then Monday afternoon she barley bumped it and the bleeding and swelling began again. I took her back to the Doctor to have him look at it. At that point he was really not happy with the way it looked, it had separated and was not healing well. I was then told she needed to see a surgeon the next day and would possibly need surgery to fix it on Wednesday. Boy, this was not news a Momma wanted to here. Tuesday morning we headed to the surgeon's office. Noel was such a trooper and let the Doctor poke and prod on her. The Doctor is not happy at all with the way the dermabond was put on her head. He says we will be able to do surgery to fix it...we have decided to let it heal on it's own and see the outcome and then we will go from there. So, at this point we are in the waiting and praying mode. I sure am hoping her little body will take over and heal itself beautifully and we can avoid surgery. We go back to the surgeon in two weeks to reassess. Whew, long story but I wanted to update everyone that has been so worried about our sweet Noel. She really has been a trooper through the whole ordeal. I took some pictures of her last night in the bath tub while we had the bandages off. As you can tell by her sweet face, she is hanging in there!!

Got my "Fill"...and didn't even realize I needed it!

2011-03-31T14:55:00.006-05:00

So, I have blogged about this before...I have been blessed throughout my life with amazing friends. From elementary school until now, I truly have so many amazing friendships and feel so lucky to have them in my life. So having said that, several of my college friends came to visit me on Wednesday and brought there beautiful babies. We had such a nice visit and I was so sad to see them go home. I didn't realize how much I needed a visit from these ladies and felt so full when they left. Love you girls!! Avery and baby McKinley Vivian and Hayes. Vivian took her job VERY SERIOUSLY!!

Allison, Hayes, Lori, me and McKinley.

Christi and her future little Gardner in the middle!

March Madness!

2011-03-24T14:58:00.007-05:00

I feel like March has just begun, but here we are looking at the end of it. My, time sure does fly around the Myers household. We have had some ups and downs this month. The down being we lost my grandmother a few weeks ago. This is my mom's mom...whom Vivian is named after. It has been hard to really get my mind wrapped around it. I feel at peace with it because I know she is in a better place now, but of course very sad to not have her as a part of my life anymore. I feel so blessed that she lived closer to us these last few years and was able to meet and spend some quality time with my girls. For that I will always be very grateful. Mema will be truly missed.

Below are random pictures through this month.

A family picture at the baseball game.
Peek-A-Boo!

Vivian and W.C. painting a masterpiece!

Here is a picture of another down for the month. Noel took a face plant off the stroller onto the concrete. Poor BooBoo!

Poppy the babysitter.

Nothing much better then swinging with a view of the lake and eating a Popsicle.

Ditto for Noel!

PS- Noel did see the dermatologist this month. The doctor feels her mole it fine. She wants to check it about twice a year...and we have to be diligent about keeping a hat on her. SO BASICALLY I have a doctor's prescription to make her wear this bonnet. I am so happy about that and Daddy is so sad...he says she looks like she should be on the Little House on the Prairie! I am sure in future post you will be able to tell who has dresses her. Bonnet=Mommy, Auburn Baseball Hat=Daddy!!

Sweet Sisters!