LittlefaceGrace

Grace sings Ingrid Michaelson!

2010-03-01T19:05:00.000-08:00

Get ready for Grace's bday pictures!!

2009-10-01T08:32:00.001-07:00

http://sfisherphotography.com/blog/?p=341

It is done.

2009-09-24T05:22:00.000-07:00

Well, we have moved from "Gracie's House" It was very bittersweet. I am thankful we sold our home in this market... but I am sad, because it was the home that Grace started to crawl, walk, talk... and boo about. I have so many memories in that home in less than 3 years. Drew had his mancave, and I had my vaulted ceilings w/ plenty of natural light. I hope we can find a house we all love again... and before too long!! Grace saw the house empty and said, "Oh NO! What happened to Gracie's House? OH NO! Where is your bed, mommy... ? OH NO! They packed up Gracie's room! OH NO OH NO! Mommy! OH NO, I really liked this room!" A while later she said, "I miss Gracie's house, but I'm not sad anymore. We are going to find a new grown up house and Ginger and Mary Ann can come too" BTW- G&MA are staying with my friend Dan until we find our new home... THANK YOU DAN!!

We are staying w/ family until we decide where to land... so I won't be blogging much these days... :) Much love to everyone! Hope to post new home pictures before too long!!!

MOVING/GARAGE SALE!

2009-09-08T06:47:00.000-07:00

http://bham.craigslist.org/gms/1363262312.html

Thank you, April P for posting this for me!!

Colorado Day 2

2009-08-14T20:03:00.000-07:00

The following day was Lilia's actual birthday. We got up and spent the morning at Littleton where they had an outdoor sale day... the weather was perfect and we had a super time. Grace and Lilia had a blast too!

Love this shot of Lilia! SOOOOOOO ADORABLE! HUGS!

They were very focused on making hats at the children's craft table... I, ahem, accidently left the hat in Amy's car...Another stop at the World's cutest Candy shop!

We then met Jody and her two children, Noelle and Canyon, for lunch. They brought Lilia cake and balloons!

Grace saw this at the Red Robin, and said, "Mommy!!! Just like in Ghostbusters!"

Amy's Lilia, My Grace, and Jody's Canyon and Noelle... hey... Clem clan... doesn't Canyon look just like Jeff when he was a little boy?!!

The family birthday party! Jeff, Jody, Amy, Jeff's wife, Jenny, Adam, Amy's Uncle... the kiddos...

There's Bill!! Bill was my dad's police partner in Denver. Amy's dad.

Lilia got hermit crabs for her birthday.

Awwww... the three of us. Amy, me, and Jody... I have soooooo many fond memories from when we were little. I can't even begin to tell you how much these two mean to me. We played HARD together... we put on shows for our family- some random thoughts: races together, frog hopping contest at the fair, Whiskers!!!!, "You know I love you but I smell your feet "song ( I would put the whole song on here, but fear someone would steal our song when we don't have copywrite on it yet), mole buddies, Anyhow I could go on and on...

I reference once again a post from the past... http://littlefacegrace.blogspot.com/2008/12/amy-and-lilia-came-to-visit.html

But it shows the Clem/Clayton kids. Sometimes it feels like a lifetime ago, and other times it is hard to believe we are in our 30s....!

More post to come, I have a few more days of cuteness from Lilia and Grace to upload... but I am getting tired tonight. Much love!

Colorado trip Day 1

2009-08-14T19:49:00.000-07:00

I bought plane tickets last March to see Amy in August, not knowing I would be in Denver this past June. It was good to see her then too, but so nice to have a visit w/ her under much better circumstances.

Grace and I were able to have an incredible time with Amy. I love her dearly... and have since I was zero. We have been connected for so many years... almost 32 to be exact. Wow... that is weird... 32... eeeeek! But I did have a guy from the Hyundai dealership mistake me for 14 the other day. He could not believe Grace was mine, and insisted that he thought I was 14... not even old enough to drive!!! LOL! I have been carded this summer for a lottery ticket, and for a drink... but to be mistaken as a freshman in high school... anyhow- back to Colorado:

Our first full day we went to the candy store in Littleton. It is called Lola's Sugar Rush, and let me tell you- it is the CUTEST candy store ever. I just ADORED it... I wish I could have a shop like it and call it Mandy's Candies.... maybe some day, eh?

I love this picture of Lilia, she is chasing bubbles... and her cutie face has candy all over it from our fun candy store trip. Grace LOVES their dog Leo. She loves loves loves him. IN FACT... after Amy worked so hard on making cupcakes for Lilia's birthday, she had to run to the store... and while she was gone... LEO ATE THE CUPCAKES!!!! I think he ate like 2 dozen or so!! Needless to say, Amy was very upset when she discovered this... and Grace was on Leo's side saying it was ok... and she loved him.... even if we were all groaning at him... :)

Trip to Denver (more pics)

2009-07-15T05:27:00.000-07:00

Grace hanging out with her second cousin, Carter. He is reading to her--- he is 4 years old... and he can read just about anything you put in front of him!! He is so smart, and so fun! The kiddos hanging out in the hotel room. Grace so loved hanging out with Carter. They were super duper cute together.

Grace looking at my first cousin Jake.

Brandon holding Grace--- Jake in background.

Casa Bonita... Drew's dream came true. Amy's dad calls it Kaka don't eat it.

Lilia and Grace in a restaurant in downtown Denver.

The Adkins with Gracie girl. Lee and Amy were so awesome. It was the first time I met Lee, and they have been married for nine years!!! Craziness!

The Dads and girls in Downtown Denver. We just went and walked around for a little bit- and decided we would rather hang out in downtown Littleton. I am so glad we went though, it was neat to see the city I was born in again!

Grace loved Lilia's dog, Leo.

Sweetie Pie Lilia.

Grace, "Hmmm... what else should I make for dinner?"

Some Buffalo on the side of the road... Grace loved that the bird was sitting on the buffalo!

Andrew Bird coming to Birmingham

2009-07-08T17:34:00.000-07:00

Andrew Bird will be at Workplay October 5th... Anyone else want to join me? OH BOY!!!

Colorado with family

2009-07-05T07:29:00.000-07:00

I want to say thank you to all of my friends and family for being so supportive to me during this time. My grandmother lived a full long life, and to know she is reunited with my grandfather brings such a good feeling to me and my family.

Of course the reason for the visit to Colorado was sad, but it was so wonderful to be with family. It has been so long since I have been with so many people from my side of the family. I love each of you so very very much.

My mom's first cousin Pauline attended, as well as her son Gene who is my second cousin. ( Is that right, Gene? So Pauline is my first cousin once removed? ) ANYWAY- MY COUSINS! MY FAMILY: My Uncle Larry, mom's brother, Mom, Pauline, John (another of mom's first cousins) and Uncle Terry, mom's other brother:
My Aunt Sharon, Uncle Terry ( mom's brother ) Amber (Nathan's wife) Nathan and Simone ( my cousins) :
Uncle Larry with his daughters ( my cousins) Laura on the left- her husband Kyle behind... and their two children Carter and Chase. Carrie on the right with her son Max. (Missed you Scott, Linda, Danylle, and Chad! )

My family- lightening the mood a little. My brother, Jeremiah, Mom, me, and Grace. Kotie, Dad, and Drew behind. We missed you Hailey and Sara!

My Uncle John ( Dad's brother ) Aunt Brenda, Cousins Justin, Jerad, Brandon, and Jake.

Uncle Jer with Gracie and Max!

What is that you said, Grace?

I will post more pictures of Colorado and Amy and her family soon. Thank you Amy, Lee, and Lilia for letting us stay with you and for being so incredibly awesome.

Sara's birthday party!

2009-07-05T07:07:00.000-07:00

Lois Cook In Loving Memory

2009-06-27T15:05:00.000-07:00

Mount Evans June 25,2009:

Mount Evans with my grandparents August 26, 1950:

The P Family!

2009-06-17T13:13:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to the P family! The adoption of baby Caleb was finalized yesterday. Praise the Lord!!! What a beautiful family!!!

Stephanie's Blog

2009-06-06T19:23:00.000-07:00

Look at this sweet picture of Hannah and Grace swimming at lessons. Soooo sweet.

http://sfisherphotography.com/blog/?p=265

Prayers for my grandmother

2009-06-02T18:30:00.000-07:00

My grandmother is in the hospital right now. She isn't doing well. This is hard for me, and as many of you know most of my post are just pictures & updates of Grace... I am not one of those bloggers that pours out my feelings about events, people, or things... I can't really process the way I feel right now about how my grandmother is doing. It is difficult. I just wanted to share some beautiful family photos she gave to me about a decade ago. If ANYone in the family would like to have copies or the originals, just let me know and I will be happy to send them your way. These aren't scanned perfectly--- I had a little helper that wanted to pick the printer cover up and readjust my pages... but you can see some beautiful pictures of my grandma and I am sure Grandma would love to know that Grace helped scan them. I have been reminiscing the last few nights about the past with my grandmother. I can clearly remember staying over night at her house in Colorado as a very little girl and laying next to her with the green glow of her night lamp that hung over her headboard. I remember talking late nights with her and probably asking questions that are normal for a young child, but now I would think were inappropriate... I talked with her yesterday for only about 3 minutes before she was wore out from only a few words. All of those years in between those nights in Colorado to our quick conversation last night, are full of memories of late night talks with my grandmother. Grandma and I always shared a room when we visited each other... I have so many thoughts, so many memories, so many questions. At this point I ask for prayers for my grandmother, Lois Laverne Cook... please pray for her peace as she goes through this... please pray for our family as we go through this. Thank you.

Lois Laverne Harbert Born 4/11/1918:

Lois with my Great Uncle Don around 1921 or 1922:

My great grandparents Lawrence & Nina Harbert with Don and Lois around 1929. This is the same piano that is now in my mother's home:

My grandfather Harlie Cook "throwing" my grandmother in the Pacific Ocean at Oregon Coast in 1941:

Ruth and my grandmother on a picnic:

My grandparents in 1942:

Grandma in 1945:

My grandparents in 1946:

5th Anniversary at Timberline on road to Mt. Evans 1950:

My grandmother with my Uncle Larry, Uncle Terry, and my mother Dec 31, 1952:

Cook family June 7, 1953:

Grandma with Larry, Terry, and Karla Sept 5, 1953:

My grandmother at my wedding Nov. 3, 2001:

Swim Lessons

2009-06-01T15:19:00.000-07:00

Grace & Hannah took swim lessons today at the YMCA!

Floating in the water: Hannah taking in everything her instructor has to say:

Gracie swimmin' in the water!

Grace and Hannah holding on the side and kick kick kick kicking!

Swim swim swim!

Gracie sure loves the water!!! Check out this video:

My IMPRESSION of trees and pond scum

2009-05-31T07:02:00.000-07:00

Melissa and I went to Sips and Strokes yesterday. We had a great time. The last time I went the lady said flowers are the hardest and that landscapes are easy--- this lady said that landscapes are a challenge. Sooooo..... haha! Here is mine. Some of my trees look like ducks, forks, chicken legs, etc... BUT--- GRACE acknowledged on her own that she liked the lily pads and that frogs live on lily pads... so if my 2 year old could pick up on that, I would say the lily pads deserve a round of applause... the rest... eeeehhhh.... my impression friends... my impression...

May Vacation!

2009-05-16T01:36:00.000-07:00

We spent 2 nights at resort at Mobile Bay, and one night with our friends Greg, Mendel, Owen & Lela. I will post pictures of them soon.

Grace, take a picture with Mommy.

Feeding the ducks.

Drew and our view.

We went Kayaking, biking... and we could not get Grace out of the swimming pool. It was a fantastic time... and went by too fast.

A side note... when we got home my beloved Civic died... thank goodness it did so at home... and not on our trip, but I am sad. I loved that car!! It was 9 years old... good bye 2000 Green Honda Civic EX. Thanks for all the good rides.

April's Shower brought May Flowers !!!

2009-04-27T17:53:00.000-07:00

Ok- corny title... but Valerie hosted April's baby shower- and it was a DELIGHT! Beautiful Mommy April- looking sooooo happy!!!

With her handsome baby boy, Caleb!!

This is from a few days ago- Gracie giving Caleb some love!

Caleb, you are handsome, sweet, and your mommy and daddy LOVVVVE YOU! and so do I!

Easter Egg Hunt on the Farm!

2009-04-14T16:09:00.000-07:00

We were invited to Lynn & Joel's house for a HUGE Easter egg hunt--- there were over 3000 eggs for all of the kids to pick. (Lynn works at the station with Dad) Grace even made the 10:00 news!! So cute!

Getting Ready for the Easter Egg Hunt!

2009-04-14T15:56:00.000-07:00

Don't take my picture ANYmore!

Easter at Grandma and Papa's

2009-04-14T15:38:00.000-07:00

Charlie's visit!

2009-04-06T08:49:00.000-07:00

It was great to see the P family. I wish you all lived closer!!! Charlie is such a cutie, and has grown up so fast. He will make a fantastic big brother to Liz!

When Charlie gets here I am gonna give him a hug and kiss.

Very interesting

2009-04-02T20:59:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eyn_RS7uzo4

Pause on the Blog

2009-03-27T13:38:00.001-07:00

I am going to take a mini break from the blog. Much love to my family and friends! I am sure I will post Easter pictures at some point. :)

A cute one to hold ya ova!

You are my Sunshine

2009-03-16T14:44:00.000-07:00

I have so much to update... but I haven't been getting online much lately. :(

Here are all of the lyrics (esp for those of you that don't know the second verse) :

You are my sunshine, My only Sunshine, You make me Happy, When skies are grey. You'll never know dear, how much I love you, Please don't take my sunshine away. The other night dear, as I lay sleeping, I dreamed I held you in my arms, but when I woke up, I was mistaken... so I hung my head and I cried!

All the Food is Poison

2009-02-28T05:32:00.000-08:00

Videos of riding on the Motorcycle

2009-02-13T07:33:00.000-08:00

Grace needs a bit of a push:

Again:

Now Daddy:

And off she goes!:

A Day at the Park w/ Uncle John!

2009-02-13T07:01:00.000-08:00

We took Grace to the park this past weekend... and she had a blast. We brought her motorcycle that Aunt Kotie and Uncle Jer got for her last birthday. While we were there we bumped into Brian and Liam!! Grace is in LOVE with Liam. I can not stress that enough. She cried when he left... and rubbed her eyes saying, "Oh Mommy, I love him I love him!"

Uncle John pushes Gracie!

Hugs for Uncle John!

Grace's first ice cream truck experience!

She is really into puzzles now. She can't get enough of them. She wanted to get these in the right order before she could play!

Oh My Gosh/Cute Dress

2009-02-13T06:25:00.000-08:00

Grace ate her chocolate and said, "Oh My Gosh... chocolate!" I tried to get her to say it again for the video-- but of course she switched it around some. "Oh My Gosh, Chocolate Milk." Too funny! She got "Oh My Gosh" from the show Oswald.

Walking with Grandma. I wanted to show off her cute dress from Great Aunt Sharon.

Home Depot!

2009-02-10T06:21:00.000-08:00

Papa and Nama came to Home Depot this weekend to help Grace with her project.

Melissa and Liam joined us! Liam is Grace's "favorite Friend" she now says over and over... "where's Liam?"

What exactly are you hammering over there?

Andrew Bird!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-02-05T17:25:00.000-08:00

I realize not all of you want to watch my Andrew Bird video clips--- but at least I can archive them this way! Thanks for looking... :) Please look a few post down at the actual pictures we got at the concert! MUCH LOVE!

"Damn you for being so easy going... "

2009-02-05T17:12:00.000-08:00

Andrew Bird Videos Part 4

2009-02-05T16:21:00.000-08:00

Andrew Bird Videos part 3

2009-02-05T15:51:00.000-08:00

Andrew Bird videos part 2

2009-02-05T15:26:00.000-08:00

Andrew Bird videos part 1

2009-02-05T15:04:00.000-08:00

Sorry they are just little clips. I wish I could have done the whole show!

Andrew Bird pictures!

2009-02-05T14:15:00.000-08:00

Drew was so sweet and purchased tickets for us to see Andrew Bird in Atlanta at the Variety Playhouse. What a blast! We had the best time riding there... just talking and talking! I was afraid we would be cutting it too close... but we got right up to the stage with no problems... it was so intimate... and by far the best concert I have been to.

Our fellow Andrew Bird Fans:

Story time at the library!

2009-02-05T13:12:00.000-08:00

Daddy was able to come with us to story time this past Monday. Grace and Daddy made a craft together.
Look who is bare foot!

Making snow!

Shake shake shake your beanbag!

Putting the beanbags away!

Check out the video of making snow!

Circus and Riverdance weekend!

2009-02-05T13:01:00.000-08:00

Grace and I went to the circus with my parents this past Saturday!! Grace was so engrossed in it!

I want more popcorn!

Dad and I went to Riverdance on Sunday. I enjoyed it soooo much. We were in the VERY last row... but in the middle at the concert hall BJCC. It was so great being there with Dad... and it brought back a lot of memories from when Amy, Dad, and I did Riverdance. These dancers were ALMOST as good as us.... ALMOST! By the way, no pictures of Riverdance... because they weren't allowed... I almost got us kicked out taking a camera phone picture of my dad and me! Oh well.

My painting!

2009-01-31T07:05:00.000-08:00

Lindsay and I went to SipsNStrokes in Vestavia. She invited me to go paint with her. It was so much fun... !! I can barely draw a circle... so this was just a lot of fun having someone tell you what to do... and it turned out decent!! Everyone knows my brother is the artist in my family--- so this was fun. I would love to see how Jer's would have turned out... he could have sold it that night I bet!! Anyhow- I am going to try to get a group together in March to go do this again!! Anyone interested? I know Melissa is! And Stephanie! Right?! And Buffie too! Post a comment if you want to join me!! Thanks again, Lindsay for inviting me!!

Resting w/ Papa

2009-01-31T06:57:00.000-08:00

Working on puzzles!

Riley's basketball game

2009-01-30T12:39:00.000-08:00

We watched Riley play basketball a couple of times this season. It is fun to watch him play- but it is hard to get good shots! (I was speaking of pictures not basket shots! )

Story time at the Library

2009-01-30T11:37:00.000-08:00

Shake Shake Shake your beanbag!

Some fun stuff

2009-01-30T10:26:00.000-08:00

Hannah and Grace read a book! Hannah!

Hannah and Stephanie getting ready to sing into the microphone!

Grace gives alligator some medicine.

Grace at the library on the computer!

Grace's FIRST OFFICIAL haircut!

2009-01-25T06:56:00.000-08:00

Once again... the pictures posted backward... but you will get the point. I cut Grace's side rat tail when she was about a year old... but she had her first REAL haircut this past Thursday!

ZaZa got her haircut, then I did... and then Grace said... "MY TURN" It was so cute. Here is the after shot: During Shots:

Before Shot:

Ugh--- I wish I could learn how to rearrange these photos... it CAN'T be that hard can it?

Candy by Mandy!

2009-01-20T19:11:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am making and selling candy! Suckers are just $1.00!! Just look at these delicious suckers. You can order Valentine's Day Suckers for the one you love, your friends, grandparents, kids, etc! Choose from the following sayings or customize your own message for just 25 cents more!

Please send your order request to candybymandy@gmail.com

Kaitlyn's Birthday

2009-01-10T17:53:00.000-08:00

We spent the day with Kim and her family to celebrate her neices 5th birthday. We even got to come to the pre-party!!! Grace loves spending time with Bo and didn't want Bo to leave her site! Happy Birthday sweet Kaitlyn!!! She is getting so big! Look at that awesome cake her mom made!!!! Candy, Kaitlyn's mom, is Kim's sister, she made Grace's 1st year pumpkin cake, and Grace's 2nd year ladybug cake!! We may ask for Tinker Bell soon too... ;-)

2/10

2009-01-10T17:47:00.000-08:00

Enjoying some gifts

2009-01-04T08:08:00.000-08:00

Grace drinking water out of her special New York cup from Uncle John and Aunt April!

Getting ready to "mix it, mix it." We made mini muffins using the pans Sam gave us, and Grace is wearing her apron from Grandma and Papa!

YUM YUM! Grace is a mess!

Now let's get cleaned up! Grace loves getting in the tub like this and calls herself a "duck in the water"

Someday... my prince will come

2009-01-02T06:34:00.000-08:00

Trust me... this one is a cute one!!

My family!!

2008-12-30T05:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2008-12-28T06:13:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Drew's birthday. He had to go to work! Blah! After work we spent the evening at Momma Zara's house with John and April. Grace picked out a HUGE batman balloon for Daddy... and she picked out his cake. She asked the people behind the counter to put Abc's on the cake. (Happy Birthday Daddy)

Super cute videos!

2008-12-28T05:55:00.000-08:00

Grace found Wall E in her stocking.

Here she is just playing with her new toys. Not saying anything, just looking cute.

Grace sees her horse for the first time!!

2008-12-28T05:30:00.000-08:00

More from Christmas Day

2008-12-26T08:52:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone! Grace, me, and my most awesome parents!! I love you guys soooooo much!

Drew and his Mom! Love you Momma Zara! Thank you for the ham!! It was deeellllicccious!

Thanks Lilia for Grace's beautiful Christmas dress!

Christmas DAY!!

2008-12-26T07:36:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas, Mary Ann!!
Merry Christmas, Ginger! Drew gave me a beautiful ring for Christmas! Citrine!!

Hugs and Love!

Grace wants to help Daddy!

New jammmmies!

What else did Santa bring me?

Santa brought Grace a Cabbage Patch Doll! Grace calls her Daisy.

Christmas Eve at Mom and Dads

2008-12-26T05:03:00.000-08:00

Every year we have Christmas eve at my parents and eat oyster stew. We open our presents with them too!

Mom and Dad got Grace a Puppet Theatre!

She loves it!! It is really super duper nice!

They got Drew a Blu Ray player for his Christmas and Birthday present.

"Papa, need help? I just open for you"

Look at that cute Apron with a LADYBUG on it. You know, Grace used to say lalee lug. Now she actually says ladybug... and it just breaks my heart!!

"Look, Papa, I made that for you! "

"Daddy! Present for you!"

We had a great Christmas eve! And this was the year of electronics!! Daddy got his new blu ray from my parents... we got an awesome new telephone set from Zara, and we got a new laptop with router from John and April. Thank you family so very very much for our Christmas gifts. I will post Christmas Day pictures soon!!

Critter Creek!

2008-12-26T04:27:00.000-08:00

We went to Critter Creek farm the w/e before Christmas. Grace got to see Santa's reindeer!

Thank you Kim!

2008-12-21T18:46:00.000-08:00

Thanks ZaZa!!!!

2008-12-21T09:19:00.000-08:00

Grace got LUCKY the SPRING HORSE from ZaZa for Christmas! Thank you ZaZa!

Christmas with the Golightlys

2008-12-21T08:25:00.000-08:00

Ok- this is for all of you that didn't believe me. I told you I would wear knee highs that don't match my outfit with a mini for the Golightly Christmas. LOL!! Ridiculus. Grace gives Uncle John the Santa ornament she made.

April and John give Grace her puppy and purse!

Cutie pie! Zara got this dress for Grace. Doesn't she look adorable?! Of course

Grace--- with the sweet idea of a prince and princess... I love this picture.

Bo & Kaitlyn come to visit!

2008-12-21T07:51:00.000-08:00

One of my bestest friends in the world, Kim, came to visit and gave Grace her Christmas present!! "Bo" - as Grace calls her (KIMBO) got her books and this super awesome vanity!! I will upload videos soon! PROMISE!

Kaitlyn shows Grace how to be a rockstar!

Sam's visit

2008-12-20T20:35:00.000-08:00

Sam came to visit last Monday. It was a brief visit, but good to see her! Grace enjoyed hanging out with her and we had a nice dinner with John and April. Thanks for staying with us, Sam! And thank you in advance for our Christmas gifts and for teaching me how to wrap properly!!

Happy Birthday Grandma!

2008-12-19T04:21:00.000-08:00

Mom's birthday was on the 17th. We had a fantastic day. Grace and I stayed all night the night before and were able to spend the entire day with her. We went shopping, had lunch together, and then we all went out to dinner for her big day. Love you, Mom! Happy birthday!

Amy and Lilia came to visit!

2008-12-13T07:06:00.000-08:00

Here is an old shot of all the Clem Clayton kids. They came to visit us when we lived in Missouri- and we were all SO SAD that they were leaving...

Jody ( who is my age ) Amy ( one year older than me) ME, Jer, and Jeff (same age as Jer)

Amy was my childhood bestfriend and beyond. Her Dad and my Dad were police partners together in Denver. Her sister, Jody, Amy, and I were the three musketeers. Her brother Jeff, and my brother, Jer were the same age and buddies. We all had such a great time together. Amy and I have such a history together... and she means so much to me. Thank you for coming to visit us in Alabaaaamy. Love you much!

Good times!

2008-12-11T17:52:00.000-08:00

Lilia and Grace continued

2008-12-11T17:37:00.000-08:00

Let's color! Amy and her sweet darling Lilia! Beautiful! Mommy and daughter!!!

Let's dance! Look at Lilia's hair!!

Amy reads to Gracie girl!

A healthy snack!

2008-12-11T17:05:00.000-08:00

Grace and Lilia DID eat a little bit of healthy food this week. They had a favorite snack of raw broccoli! Yumo!

I love this pictures! Lilia looks like, what am I eating? And Grace's hair is super cute. What a mess.

More Ice Cream!

2008-12-11T16:46:00.000-08:00

Amy told me that this is the difference between 2 and 3--- I hope she is right, because Grace made an amazing mess.

A day at the mall

2008-12-11T16:28:00.000-08:00

Lilia and Grace had a blast at the mall. They rode the reindeer on the carousel.

They made "Build a Bears" Lilia did a fuzzy snuggly cutie pink bear- and she chose the Lion ROAR for his sound. So funny! Darla ( That is what she named the bear ) looks so snuggly and cute and then.............."ROOOOOOOOOOOOOAR"

Grace made a rabbit that she named... Rabbit.

Amy and the girls!

2008-12-11T14:38:00.000-08:00

Amy holding onto our sweetpeas!

The girls had a nice before bedtime snack! ICE CREAM!!! --- hey this is a special time! We even had MAGIC SHELL! (Thanks Holly!)

Lilia is here!!!

2008-12-11T14:24:00.000-08:00

Amy's beautiful little girl, Lilia Grace! My Grace Lillian and her Lilia Grace had a good time together. (Grace had her moments of "MINE" or bopping Lilia on the head- but she also had her moments of hugs and kisses and laughing)

Making Cookies!!!

Old Time Photo

2008-12-04T05:43:00.000-08:00

Pictures Please!

2008-12-04T05:05:00.000-08:00

I wanted to get a picture of the grandparents and the girls to remember how much fun we had at the cabin- and to remember the fun things we did with the girls... so ...

GET READY PLEASE GOOD GOOD, SMILE!

CHHHHHHEEEEEEESSSSSSEEEE!

ONE MORE, OK?

UH, OH, DAD IS GETTING MAD

NO MORE PICTURES?!

STOP STOP!

STOP WITH THE PICTURES!!!!!!

Thanksgiving weekend at the Cabin

2008-12-04T04:47:00.000-08:00

We met my brother and his family for a Thanksgiving getaway in the cabins at Gatlinburg.

Look at this little girl... LOOK AT HER! She is getting so big!!! Hailey, my dear, and Sara, my sweets, it was so fun playing with you all weekend. Grandma, Grandpa, Grace, Hailey, Sara and I had so much fun playing and going to Adventure Quest! We did a black light indoor golf, a mission impossible game, and the mirror maze!! Every moment we were at the cabin Sara wanted to wear her princess dress!

Grace looked just like Abby Gadabby or however you spell it. So cute, "When I'm happy I float..."

The girls "slept" in the tent. By that I mean, I slept in the tent with the girls- some girls left here and there... but I stayed. Look how thrilled Sara looks! That look is very familiar- Ah yes, it looks just like the looks my brother used to --- and still does--- give me!

Grace was laughing and laughing. She thought it was a riot to sleep in the tent! So cute!

Thanksgiving Day at John and April's

2008-12-04T04:39:00.000-08:00

April had Thanksgiving dinner for us on T-day! Grace helped Uncle John and Aunt April prepare the meal. ZaZa, April's Dad, Drew, and I helped them all eat it up! We had a nice time... although April has a candle MIA due to Grace... sorry about that April!!! You never know what a 2 year old will do with anything their little hands can reach.... oooops!

Thanksgiving at Nama's and Papa's 11/26

2008-12-04T04:22:00.000-08:00

We had an early Thanksgiving meal with my parents the weekend before T-day. Drew had to work on Thanksgiving Day and since Mom, Dad, Grace, and I were planning to spend Thanksgiving Holiday weekend with my brother and his family, we decided to do our dinner the week before.

Grace loved Grandma's noodles and Turkey! YUM YUM! Pumpkin Pie!

"Nama, wanna play tea party?"

Visit with Santa

2008-12-01T13:24:00.001-08:00

Grace saw Santa today. She said she was going to ask him for a Christmas Tree- instead all she said was, "I don't want Christmas!"

We had two to choose from:

I will upload Thanksgiving pics soon!

Heinz's second Birthday!

2008-11-25T05:14:00.000-08:00

Saturday we went to Heinz's 2nd birthday party and had a ton of fun. I didn't bring my camera!! BUMMER!! But check out some of the shots on Stephanie's site:

http://sfisherphotography.com/blog/?p=170

I wanna do it myself!

2008-11-23T19:54:00.000-08:00

Grace wants to do everything herself... she wants to get in and out of the car herself. She wants to go down the steps herself.

These too!

And the extra time it take for her to do it herself is allll worth it, because "Mommy, I love you thiiiissss much!" And I love her that much too. And more!

Izzy's Birthday!

2008-11-16T06:28:00.000-08:00

My new friend Holly's little girl had her first birthday party last Saturday! I met Holly in the Mom's Club- and she is beyond awesome! ( Izzy's actual birthday is on the 11th! So she is an 11/11 baby just like me!)

Jake, Holly, and Izzy!
Jake and Izzy. Jake helped with her birthday cake!!!

Mia!

Izzy's Strawberry Shortcake Birthday cake!! WOWSERS! HOMEMADE!

Grace and Jake!

Beautiful Holly and her beautiful daughter! I love this picture!!

Mommy! Can I have some more cake?

Mia, Grace, & Joey!

My birthday!

2008-11-13T19:06:00.000-08:00

We went to my Mom and Dad's for my birthday.

Grace is running with Daddy, "Catch me!"

Aquarium

2008-11-13T17:45:00.000-08:00

Grace saw Baby Beluga!! She was singing to him the whole time! THANKS RAFFI!

Oh- and my cake April found for me! It is soooo me! I love fall. Thank you Zara for the cake, and thanks April for finding it!

Twinkle Little Star!

2008-11-10T17:39:00.000-08:00

Babysitting

2008-11-10T17:20:00.000-08:00

Uncle John and Aunt April babysat Grace last Sat night. She helped Aunt April while she cleaned under the oven. "Hey, Aunt April, I had cake at Liam's today"

"What was that you said?"

SOPHIE!

"Your turn, Uncle John!"

Liam's birthday party!

2008-11-08T19:35:00.000-08:00

Grace had so much fun at Liam's 4th birthday party. She adores him. I have to say, Liam is one of my favorite people- he is so sweet, full of life, and has the best manners. AND he cracks me up!

Liam let Grace wear his batman mask!

Grace wanted to help him open his gifts, "How about that one?"

Sweetie Liam with cake on his face!

Blowing out his candles!

Thank you for inviting us. We had a great time! We love you, Liam!

MOMMY!

2008-11-08T06:03:00.000-08:00

Dance?

2008-11-07T17:48:00.000-08:00

Yesterday afternoon we tried out the dance class again. Well this time, Grace was dressed up cute as can be, thank you Joy for letting us borrow everything, but she didn't dance... until she got home. But this time was observation day- so I think the extra adults made her a little overwhelmed--- and having her mommy so close did NOT help. We will see how she does next week when I am not in the room again...

Oh earlier in the day when she wanted to snack on a piece of broccoli. She chose it over a fresh chocolate chip cookie we JUST took out of the oven.

Look at Grace running to Riley!! So cute! The other gals are darling too!

A day at the park

2008-11-07T13:17:00.000-08:00

Holly and I met at the park yesterday and had a great time! Grace and Jake laughed and played together so much!

I didn't get a good shot of Grace laughing- but she had a ton of fun with Jake. Here is Izzy too! Cute as ever! "Mama... Mama!"

Trick Or Treat!

2008-11-02T20:00:00.000-08:00

Carson Grace and Grace went Trick Or Treating at ZaZa's neighborhood. We went to about 5 homes before we all got tuckered out!!!

Halloween Dress up for Papa's work!

2008-11-02T19:32:00.000-08:00

Papa took Grace around his office! Grace was on WVUA TV!!

Grace hanging out in Papa's office.

Grandma gets Grace ready for her TV appearance.

Cute video!

Grace and Uncle Jer

2008-10-31T10:05:00.001-07:00

Had to share this shot from Grace's birthday week. How cute does my brother look with Grace?!!? I captured it from Kotie's myspace page. LOVE THIS PICTURE!

Dance class

2008-10-30T19:26:00.000-07:00

Joey & Mia invited Grace for a day at dance. It was also their Halloween party today, so Grace had a double dose of fun. I wasn't sure how Grace would do, since she is so young... but she BLEW me away! She was doing everything the instructor told them to- twirling, dancing on tip toes, raising her arms up, etc. It was so cute. The instructor said she can tell on the first day whether or not they are ready to join. She said that Grace was ready to do it! IF she wanted to- so we are getting a few more weeks to "try it out" and see if she really wants to get involved with dance. I will let her make that choice. She said she had fun, "dance joey mia" and she danced on her tip toes some tonight.

Getting ready for the dance Halloween Party with her witch costume.
Grace at dance class!

Joey was protecting Grace and Mia was close by!

More shots of Grace in her costume! Riding her motorcycle!

I have to tell you, it was a bitter sweet moment for me. I just really saw my baby as a little girl. I know she just turned two- but it just surprised me how I felt watching her do this. I was standing outside looking through the door. This is old hat for some, but it was just all new for me and for my baby! My baby!!!! My little girl. After they were done dancing, the instructor told us we could come in, and Grace was sitting with the other girls- and then she saw me, and her face puckered up crying for me. It felt strange, I was glad to be there for her and comfort her with this new feeling of being "alone" without any family around, but I also felt like I had ruined a special moment for her. She was having so much fun and then saw me and realized she was on her own. All part of growing up. I remember going through it when I was little too. I didn't ever want to leave my mom's sight. I still don't. HAHA! I am so thankful for my family. I love you all very much. Sorry to get mushy- but watching Grace grow does that to me sometimes.

Halloween Party

2008-10-30T18:39:00.001-07:00

Our mom's club had a Halloween party for the kids. Holly was the host. She really outdid herself. I was so impressed with all of the "extras" she did for the kids. It really did bring back a fun spirit for the holiday. Thank you, Holly, for everything you did. It was an awesome party.

Heinz dressed up as a groom... Grace as his bride. A little blurry- but still cute.

I got a good shot of Joey w/ cupcake in her mouth!!

Holly and her little pumpkin, Izzy. I didn't get a shot of Jake. errrrr!

Our friend Julie and her little one Caroline also joined us. I didn't get any good shots of the adults... but Joy was there as well and I have some shots of Mia from dance today I will share soon.

Go go Gracie!!!

2008-10-26T19:52:00.000-07:00

Uncle John shows Grace how to steer!

This is my favorite picture of Grace. Ok- I have a lot of favorites- but this is in the top 10 for sure. Uncle Jer, Aunt Kotie, Hailey, and Sara got Grace a motorcycle for her birthday. The first few times she rode it she wasn't too sure what to do- well by the 3rd time on it- she knew what to do! She gets on, gets ready, gets set... and goes without any hesitation now... and she can already steer that thing like a pro! It is soooo super cute.

Uncle John, Aunt April, and ZaZa came over Saturday. John cemented her swingset in! THANK YOU JOHN!

Build an elephant, dog, turtle...

2008-10-26T19:42:00.000-07:00

Check out these videos!

Papa took the girls to Build A Bear at the mall. When I walked by that place I always thought it was cheesy and a huge marketing ploy... but you know what, I got sucked in. It was realllllly cute. The whole process was cute, and the girls really enjoyed it. Hailey picked out a puppy, Sara picked out an elephant, and Grace really wanted the turtle. She loves her turtle and has had to take it with her everywhere since she got it... if he is missing she says, "oh no turtle!"

Family fun continued

2008-10-26T19:18:00.000-07:00

Papa (Grandpa) and all of the girls look exhausted .They settle in to watch Shrek.

The girls made biscuits for breakfast. I love this picture. Grace and mom are having their own conversation on the side. Hailey and Sara are busy preparing breakfast.

One day while shopping... Papa tries to get Grace to go in this store instead of the toy store...

Gals sitting on the couch.

More fun with the family

2008-10-26T18:55:00.000-07:00

You would think by now I would have this blogging thing down, or would take time to read the help section... but oh well. What am I talking about you ask? Well--- I can never arrange the pictures the way they are uploaded... so they are out of order. Errrr... as requested in previous blogs, if you are an expert and you know how to rearrange pictures AFTER they have been uploaded please shoot me an email or leave me a comment... anyhow--- even though they are out of order--- you will "get the picture"

We went for a day at the park by my parents house one day during Jer's visit. Sara, Hailey, and Grace had fun swinging. Interesting to see a picture of me and my big brother as adults pushing our little ones. I can remember going to the park in Colorado with him when we were young--
Picnic, Grandma was right- sandwiches taste so much better outdoors.

THIS IS OUT OF ORDER- but here is a picture of the girls at Aldridge Gardens.

Another picnic shot.

Grace on her actual birthday... look at those pigtails!!! This was right before we went to the Dr. The Dr told me that it was by far the best 2 year old visit he had ever had. He said he usually gets bruised up from his 2 year old patients. But she let him do everything w/ ease. She sat there and let him do everything, and even laid down for her shot. She cried 2 tears, and then said, "all better."

Drew and I gave her a kiddie doctor kit for her birthday, and we had been playing that quite a bit, and I let her bring the kit with her- so I think that is why she handled it like a pro. She knew what was going on. I was very very proud of her.

Family time

2008-10-25T19:22:00.000-07:00

Hailey and Drew. I love this picture!! LOVE IT!!

Grace giving herself a shot!

Playing with her babydoll and bassinet.

More of the party animals!

2008-10-24T20:12:00.000-07:00

Grace in the cotton bin. Love this expression! Grace, Sara, and Hailey

Ella, Crystal, me, & Stephanie

Drew, Nathan, Leah, Andrea, and Danitza

John, Grace and April

John and April