Frost Family Parade

It's been a long time

2012-01-26T09:54:00.000-08:00

It's been a long time since I've posted anything. I would love to catch you up on Halloween, Christmas, and more, but it just isn't going to happen. For now the posts will be short and sweet. We will start from this point forward. I would like to introduce you all to our newest additions Murphy Mae and Winifred Francis. They were born on November 11, 2011 (Marshall's birthday.) For those who played the guess when the babies come game, Brayden won. Brayden we owe you your prize - dinner out. Murphy Mae was 5 lbs. 12 oz. and Winifred Francis weighed in at 5 lbs. 7 oz. Now, they are two and a half months old, and Murphy Mae weighs 9lbs. 9 oz and Winifred 8 lbs. 11 oz. Our household is a wonderful chaos that is filled with laughter and tears (all of the tears do not belong to the babies.)

Some Fall Fun

2011-10-26T05:56:00.000-07:00

Charlie and Hank stay really busy! On Monday, they were enjoying the beautiful fall weather. They rode their bikes and played outside all afternoon. While riding their bikes, they collected leaves. They had a great collection, and they were so proud. Charlie wanted to do art with the leaves, and Hank counted them. As soon as Marshall got home, Charlie took him to see all of his leaf rubbings that he proudly hung in his bedroom.

Charlie's 5th Birthday Party at Moore Acres

2011-10-22T08:09:00.001-07:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

Spiders

2011-10-22T07:30:00.000-07:00

We made some Halloween fun. We took an idea from Family Fun magazine and had a great time. Our spiders wouldn't stick to the window, but we still had fun.

Here are some pictures of our spiders.

Is it Halloween yet?

2011-09-29T11:52:00.000-07:00

Charlie and Hank have been so excited about Halloween. They have been asking for their costumes since this summer. Charlie is going to be Batman, and Hank is going to be Spiderman. Hank puts his costume on periodically and says, "I go trick or treat. You say trick or treat and get chocolate." We keep telling him it is not time yet. Charlie is learning about the changing seasons and months at school. He knows it is fall and that October is a couple of days away. He couldn't quite understand that Halloween was the last day of October, so we made paper chains. Marshall and Hank used the paper cutter and cut strips of paper. Charlie numbered each strip and stapled them together. Now, they are just waiting for Saturday, so they can start taking down a link a day.

Here are some pictures of their handy work.

What's an Oreo?

2011-09-09T07:09:00.000-07:00

I love to make and eat cookies and brownies. We rarely buy cookies from the store, and if we do, we buy Milano's (my favorite.) I went to the store last week and saw that Oreos were on sale. I guess since I'm seven months pregnant that looked pretty good to me. I got a pack of double stuffed Oreos.

Last night I told Charlie I wanted some junk food.

Charlie: Want to make brownies?

Me: No, what about an Oreo?

Charlie: What's an Oreo?

I couldn't believe that Charlie, four years old, did not know what an Oreo was. He does know where to find the best chocolate chip cookies :)

Charlie's "B" Bag

2011-08-23T06:59:00.000-07:00

Last week Charlie was telling us about the letter bag that they have at school. He told us that he would get a turn to bring the bag home and fill it with things that started with the letter of the week. Of course, the first letter was "A." Charlie didn't bring home the letter bag, but he talked about all of the things that he would put in the bag if it was his turn.

This week, the letter is "B." I don't know whose turn it is to take the letter bag home, but Charlie took it upon himself to make his own letter bag. He walked all over the kitchen and playroom sounding out objects to see what could go in his bag. He looked at the tomatoes and sounded out the t sound, so he moved on to bananas. He was so excited every time he found a "B" word. He took a bag, bow, bubbles, banana, batman, boat, and ball. He had so much fun.

This morning he took his bag to school. Marshall said that he got out of the car, and his teacher, Ms. Angie, asked Charlie what was in his bag. He said, "I'll show you when we get to the classroom." It is so much fun watching Charlie and Hank learn new things and to be intrinsically motivated to learn. They just have this excitement to learn, discover, and explore. I hope that it will last a lifetime.

First Day of School

2011-08-12T12:48:00.001-07:00

Charlie and Hank started school this past Monday. Hank is in 3 year old pre-K, and Charlie is in 4 year old pre-k. They were both so excited to start school. Hank a little less excited than Charlie. Hank didn't want to get out of bed. He said he was too tired to go to school. Hank is usually up and out of bed every morning no later than 7:15. On Monday morning, he was wearing Superman pajamas. He told me that Superman would brush his teeth in bed, and Superman would eat breakfast in his pajamas. Charlie was up and dressed in no time. He was so excited that he couldn't eat breakfast.

Fishing

2011-07-27T06:32:00.001-07:00

Charlie has been asking to go fishing on a boat for a long time. This summer he got to go. He had so much fun! He talks about his trip and what all he did on the boat all of the time. He tells us about catching a shark, sea bass, and silver snapper. He says that he wants to go again next year, but he wants daddy to put the bait on the hook. He doesn't want to smell too fishy.

This is Charlie and Mr. David. He became Charlie's special friend. Charlie got up early to go on the four hour fishing trip, but the boat was overbooked even though Marshall made the reservation two days in advance and used his credit card to hold the reservation. Charlie, daddy, and Pappy watched the boat pull away without them.

Luckily, they got on the next trip that left at noon and returned at eight. We thought it would be too long for Charlie, but he took a nap while the boat headed out to sea. The crew saw what happened earlier in the morning. They felt terrible, and made a special effort to make sure Charlie had a great time. Mr. David brought Charlie special bait to catch big fish with, and Charlie got to help drive the boat back at the end of the day with the captain. All in all everything worked out great! He even got to touch the shark he caught before they threw it back.

Skateboarding

2011-07-26T07:07:00.001-07:00

Hank has really been awestruck by Uncle Brayden and his skateboarding skills. He loves to go to Laurel and Brayden's house to play on the ramp. I've never seen a three year old as excited about shoes as Hank was when Laurel and Brayden gave him skateboarder shoes for his birthday. When Hank saw Uncle Brayden with his skateboard, he came running in the house searching for the skateboard and helmet. I put his helmet on him, and he said, "Thank you, mommy!" and ran out the door.

Wipe out! But no tears. He got right back up to do it again.

Uncle Brayden was a very patient teacher.

Science Camp

2011-07-25T12:27:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, Charlie and Kensington went to science camp. They had so much fun. Every day was a new adventure. Charlie was most excited about taking his lunch. The name of their camp was Junior Chemists. They made goo, crystals, elephant toothpaste, chewing gum, and so much more. Hank wanted to go to school too. He didn't understand why Charlie and Kensington got to go but not him.

By the end of the week, we were all exhausted. The camp day was much longer than their normal school day. We were all ready for bed time every night, except Hank :)

Garden City Beach, South Carolina

2011-07-24T12:54:00.001-07:00

Spending a week at the beach is always a wonderful part of summer. It is truly a luxury. Playing in the sand and waves, picnics on the beach, nap time, put put, and so much more are all things Charlie and Hank love about the beach. Hank's favorite was playing in the sand. Although he loved playing in the sand, he didn't like for his toys to get too dirty. He was constantly up and down the beach washing his toys off in the surf. Charlie truly enjoyed the waves this year. He enjoyed riding the waves in a little blow up boat and flipping out. Pappy had to buy goggles because he was worried about Charlie's eyes. Charlie would dive into the waves with or without a boogie board. Kensington loved the sand and water. She didn't like the waves flipping her out of the boat, but she did enjoy being made into a beautiful sand mermaid.

Summer Days

2011-07-07T06:39:00.000-07:00

This morning after breakfast, I threw on my clothes. Marshall asked me if I had a shower because I normally cannot function without a shower. I told him that I didn't because we were going to play outside today. It is so HOT outside! What's the point of a shower before hand? Marshall has set up a fan by the table and chairs to keep me cool while Charlie and Hank play on the water slide.

But, before we could go outside today, I had to make good on a promise to make chocolate chip cookies. When I make cookies by myself, the worst part is cleaning up. When Charlie and Hank help me, I never know what to expect. Today, it went pretty smoothly with one exception. Hank wanted to do his favorite part - the eggs! He lightly cracked his egg on the bowl and then POP! Hank's egg EXPLODED! Hank and I had egg all over us. It was down my shirt, my arm, and in my hair. We finally got the cookies in the oven, and Charlie spilled an entire container of goldfish. I guess today I'll keep the Clorox wipes and vacuum handy.

I might be needing a shower sooner than I thought :)

Hank sneaking into the cookie dough batter while Charlie and I clean up goldfish.

Charlie enjoying his warm cookie.

Hank's 3rd Birthday Party at Moore Acres

2011-06-06T10:18:00.001-07:00

Hank's 3rd birthday was celebrated at Moor Acres in Washington, Georgia. Although the summer heatwave started early, it did not stop us all from having a great time. We enjoyed the wonderful shade trees to keep us cool and an occasional breeze. The kids ran and played like the heat was no problem. The kids (and some adults) enjoyed the zip line, animal train, petting zoo, horseback rides, petal tractors, a hay ride, and so much more.

Big brother CHARLIE helps welcome guests and organize the party.

THE ZIP LINE

HANK WITH BILLY BOY THE GOAT

GAVIN

JOSEY

ALEXIS

Hank loved the bunny. When it was time to go, the farm was empty, and my sister Brittany said, "Where's Hank?" Turns out he was back in the bunny hutch. The granddads were teasing that he needed a bunny. Sorry y'all, NO ROOM IN THE INN FOR A BUNNY!

KENSINGTON

ANIMAL TRAIN
"ALL ABOARD!"

EMILY

HAY RIDE

GRANNY AND AUNT FLORENCE enjoying the cool shelter of the shade!

2011-05-25T13:25:00.000-07:00

This morning we went out to play around 11:00. Not nearly early enough as it was almost 90 degrees and humid already. Charlie and Hank had so much fun. Hank pretended like he was Curious George trying to climb a tree, and Charlie created a new swing on the trapeze bar. Charlie had the new swing going really fast!

Charlie loves to find "supplies" to make things with in the yard and the house. He has made robots, kites, ugly bugs, cars, parking garages, and more. He hates for a cardboard box to be recycled before he has made something out of it. Today, he found some old string in the outdoor building. He had me tie a plastic shovel to the end of the string. He and Hank were taking turns pulling the shovel up and down. I overhead Charlie talking to Hank. "Hank, this is a pulley. A pulley is a simple machine that makes jobs easier." Charlie had wrapped his string to make it like a pulley. I guess "Curious George" and "Sid, The Science Kid" are really paying off. Later, the string became Spiderman's web.

Where have we been?

2011-05-23T08:03:00.000-07:00

Well, I wasn't planning on taking a four month break from blogging. I have lots of great pictures to share. We have been VERY busy. Charlie has been playing t-ball, selling lemonade, swimming, and more. Hank has been trying really hard to keep up with his big brother. The big news is that we are having TWINS! We are very excited, and I'm still in shock. Hopefully, I can do a better job of sharing our crazy but fun life with everyone.

As summer is approaching and school is out, we are always looking for fun things to do. Tomorrow, the summer reading program at our local library kicks off. Don't forget to check your local library for dates and events. It's free, fun, and typically has great prizes. Be sure to share other fun things to do for the summer.

Speaking Plainly

2011-02-02T19:24:00.000-08:00

Hank is really starting to speak very clearly. He has a lot to say, and there is no hesitation in the conversation. He does not search for words. The words just flow.

Yesterday, he was getting a treat for going potty. He was suppose to give Charlie one too. The first time he did. The second time, this is what I heard.

Me: Hank, give Charlie one.

Charlie: AHHHHH, he didn't give me one. He ate both of them.

Hank: You not go potty. You have to potty.

Today, everyone was playing and tattling, playing and tattling, playing and tattling. We were also getting ready to leave the house, so I was tuning out as much tattling as possible. Until . . .

Hank runs up to me and says: Char-ee, basketball, gone

Me: (I'm trying to ignore him. Hoping they will work it out on their own.)

Hank just continues to say it over and over: Char-ee, basketball, gone

Me: Charlie where is the basketball?

Charlie: Oh, it's behind the red chair.

I go look. He has taken the cover off of the heating and air conditioning vent and put the ball down it.

Me: Charlie, why did you do that?

(Never got a straight answer. It's time to go.)

Me: Just get in the car.

Hank: (In his car seat) Char-ee not go to time out, Char-ee not go to time out, Char-ee not go to time out

Pledge Allegiance to the Flag

2011-02-01T14:51:00.000-08:00

Look What We Can Do!

A RED chair

2011-02-01T12:45:00.000-08:00

On Saturday the weather was beautiful! You couldn't even tell that we had snow three weeks earlier. It felt like spring in January (not unusual in Georgia.) Marshall was going to do some painting and odd jobs. As soon as Charlie heard the word paint, nothing would do until he got to paint too. He did not want to paint on paper and an easel. Oh no, he wanted REAL paint. We let him and Hank paint a chair from a consignment sale. They are so proud of their chair.

When Marshall brought it in that evening, Hank kept saying, "I paink chair. It red!" As we were leaving for church Sunday morning, Charlie said, "Hey, even the drips are dry."

Marshall tried to help them smooth out the paint, but they wouldn't let him near the chair.

Pajama Day

2011-02-01T11:49:00.001-08:00

Last Wednesday, was pajama day for Charlie's pre-k class. Hank had to wear his too!

A blurry picture, but it is hard to get Superman to stand still!

SNOW

2011-01-11T05:05:00.000-08:00

What do you do during a snow storm? EAT of course! I'm probably going to gain five pounds by the time we get to leave the house. Most people eat soup and cornbread when it snows, but not at our house. Charlie and Hank requested chocolate chip cookies and fried chicken. I can't stop eating. What's your comfort food? Hank is sitting in the recliner with me while I write this post. He is talking about the picture of the fried chicken, and said, "fried chicken, cheeseburger, french fries" Too bad McDonald's is closed. I guess, I know what Hank's favorite comfort foods are.

Of course, Hank would eat the snow.

Snowball fight!

Uh, Oh! Hank didn't quite understand what a snowball fight was. He quickly got the hang of it.

Charlie's snowballs were mostly ice. Underneath the thick layer of ice was the softest snow.
Charlie tried to sled on a cookie sheet. He kept sinking, but he liked slinging it like a frisbee and watching it slide. Hank enjoyed sledding down the hill on the cookie sheet. Our neighbors were walking by and saw Charlie and Hank playing. Mr. Moore ran home and brought them sleds to play with in the snow. They LOVED it. Here are two video clips.

Christmas

2011-01-04T12:37:00.000-08:00

Charlie was the donkey in the retelling of the Christmas story in his pre-k Christmas program.

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On Christmas Eve Eve, Mam-ma and Granddaddy came and spent the day with Charlie and Hank in Athens, had a BBQ supper with us, and opened presents. Charlie and Hank love their beanbag punching bags . . . chairs.

The elves were at work again while Charlie went to Augusta with mommy and Hank took a nap.

The elves left such a big mess. What could they have been doing?

Christmas morning breakfast - Hank style. The rest of us had pancakes, bacon, ham, and fruit. Hank saved a little room for fruit and pancakes too!

Gaga, Pappy, Granny, and Brittany came to spend Christmas Eve with us. We all had so much fun. Charlie and Hank loved all of the excitement. We went to Atlanta to spend the rest of Christmas. We enjoyed presents, food, a movie, and SNOW!

There are ELVES in our house!

2010-12-24T06:11:00.000-08:00

Last night, when it was time to go to bed, Charlie found that his room had been INVADED by ELVES! He stood in front of his bedroom door with his hands clasped over his mouth giggling in disbelief. He couldn't believe it. Santa's elves snuck in the house and made a work site. Charlie laid on the floor and tried to look under the door, but he couldn't see anything. His daddy told him that the elves do not work while children are awake or in the house. Charlie said, "Are they nocturnal?" We said, "Oh, yes!" We should him the yellow caution tape said, "CAUTION CONSTRUCTION." He noticed jingle bells hanging on the door. His daddy said that if the jingle bells get rung, the elves get scared and might leave. Hank tried to jingle the bells, and Charlie took off running. I asked Charlie where he was going. He told me that he didn't want the elves to think he rang the bells to scare them.

Rudy, Charlie and Hank's elf, was sitting at the top of the door keeping watch. Charlie told Rudy that he was being a good listener, and he ran to the bathroom faster than ever before, took off his clothes, and got in the tub. While in the tub, Charlie couldn't stop talking about the elves. He said, "We never had a work site in the house before!" After bath time and story time, Charlie ran to bed. As he was leaving our room, he turned to Marshall and said, "Daddy, you carry Hank to bed, so he won't ring the bells and scare the elves." Marshall tucked them in bedand told them that if they were really quiet they might be able to hear the elves working during the night.

Offering

2010-12-06T17:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, a group of us went to see the Living Christmas Tree. We took Kensington, Charlie, and Hank too. They loved it!

When it came time for the offering, I gave Charlie and Kensington a dollar to put in the offering plate. As the offering plate comes down our row, I pass it to Charlie. I help him put his dollar in and try to pass it on, but he wouldn't let go. I firmly but carefully make him pass it down. I tried to make sure that we didn't dump the money. The offering plate went to Gaga and Kensington next. Gaga said that Kensington's eyes got really big, and she said, "What are they going to give us?" Gaga tried to explain that the offering was going to do something good for other people, but Ashley and Brittany were sitting behind them laughing.

The lights go dim again, and I whisper to Charlie, "Why were you holding on to the offering plate? Why didn't you pass it down?" Charlie replied, "I was just trying to get some money to buy something with."

Gaga's Version of Our Parade Today

2010-12-01T18:51:00.000-08:00

the way i remember it ....

i wish i had a video of today with charlie. we (erin and i) opened the door to get him and he was standing there. i was prepared for pure unbridled joy to see me standing there to get him early. he smiled so sweetly. then he told me he was about to lead his class outside to play. i told him we came to get him early for some fun. he looked at me and said, "no gaga." i am not going early. my class needs me to lead them outside and i want to play when we get outside." confusion began to tickle my brain. he looked at me and in his expression on his sweet little face and the determination looking back at me from his beautiful brown eyes ... i knew, oh, i knew ... it was high noon. a line in the sand had been drawn and there was just not going to be a pleasant exit. i did not reopen the door that had just been gently but firmly closed in my face. my thoughts were conflicted. maybe we needed to honor his reasonable expectation of finishing his day and let him revel in the power of being the leader. then i thought of the lunch we had just ordered that would be waiting hot and ready in the cafe down the street ... and what about the appointment with the photographer? they had a very important appointment with santa and a photographer. being a calm grandmother with vast wisdom and experience i calmly walked down the hall to erin and offered to get hank. (who happened to be delighted to be leaving early as that allowed him escape from time out....) ... watching erin carry my charlie bear down the street so so upset that his will was being thwarted it was like deja' vue. his mommy was just like this. so interested and determined and ... determined.... my heart is so in love.

Sherry Manross

Pictures with Santa

2010-12-01T11:42:00.000-08:00

First of all, I'm sorry there are no pictures to post today! The whole morning was an experience.

Yesterday, we took it easy. We enjoyed the rain, watched movies, ate a McDonald's picnic, took naps, and played. I thought it would be good to have a down day before picture day. Marshall was out of town, so I called my momma to see if she could come stay with me. THANKFULLY, she did!

Today, I had it all planned (that was my first mistake.) Momma and I ran some errands around the square, ordered our lunch, and walked to the school to pick up the kids 30 minutes early. It was so cold and the wind was making it worse.

Charlie was standing at the door with his book bag and coat on ready to go outside to play. He was also the "leader." He told Gaga that he was not leaving, gently pushed her back, and closed the door. I had to carry him out kicking and screaming (literally.) He cried all of the way down the street back to the square. Hank fell and he was crying too. Gaga spotted an injured baby bird, and Charlie calmed down to assess the situation. I convinced him to go inside and eat, and when he finished eating, we could bring the bird some bread. He ate his lunch and was not interested in dessert. Hank, however, enjoyed his cheesecake! Gaga smiled and asked me, "are you cold now?" I quickly said, "No!"

Charlie and Hank went and left the bird some bread. We told them the bird was scared. So we went across the street to get pictures made and told Charlie we would check back on the bird when we were finished. On the way across the street, they spotted Santa going to the Sandwich Shoppe to grab lunch.

We went in and changed Charlie and Hank's clothes. While we were getting Charlie and Hank ready, Santa came up the stairs! They were so excited. The picture taking process went great! Hank LOVED Santa. Charlie was a little more reluctant, but he sat on his lap and talked to him. Charlie told Santa that he wanted bunk beds. Santa asked, "Won't you fall?" Charlie said, "No, there are going to be walls built around it."

We all sat together and chose our pictures. Hank kept asking to go back to see Santa. I've never really heard children to go back and see Santa. Usually, it is a Christmas obligation to go see Santa to get the gifts on their lists. Hank really surprised me. I can't wait to share the sweet pictures with you.

We did check on the bird. He was still there. Charlie was convinced he ate the bread. He wanted to take him home, but Gaga told him that the bird was wild and we couldn't touch it. He was very concerned about the bird and wanted me to call someone to help the bird.

Charlie's 4th Birthday Party

2010-11-14T20:17:00.000-08:00

We had such a fun day. Charlie and his friends enjoyed a bowling party. There aren't too many pictures because they were moving constantly. It was like chasing little ants.

They all had so much fun.

Robot Turkey

2010-11-08T18:03:00.001-08:00

Charlie brought home Tom Turkey last week. As a family, we were supposed to disguise Tom Turkey so that he would not be eaten for Thanksgiving dinner. Charlie and I looked on-line and found lots of good ideas. He liked the clown, Thomas the Train, and many more, but he never settled on one. He just wanted to paint his turkey. He painted his turkey green and glued eyes on him. So from there, we decided on a robot turkey because Charlie likes to dress up like a robot.

Today was the day we took Tom Turkey to school.

Charlie: Mommy, I didn't tell anyone at school that I made a robot turkey.

Me: Good job, Charlie! Now, it will be a big surprise, and you kept a secret.

Charlie: Trey is going to have a robot turkey and Carter is going to have a robot shark turkey.

Me: Charlie, did you tell your friends that you were making your turkey into a robot?

Charlie: Well, yeah

Me: Charlie, I thought it was a secret because you wanted to surprise your friends?

Charlie: Well, I whispered it.

Who can argue with that logic?

We Can Fix It!

2010-11-01T18:53:00.000-07:00

The past few weeks, we have had a run of bad luck. From Friday to Friday, first a deer hit Marshall's car, our washing machine died, and the compressor on the refrigerator had to be replaced. Everyone kept saying, "these things seem to come in threes." But, in our case, they seem to come in fours. Now our dishwasher has died. My daddy, Marshall, and Charlie tried to fix it and had it working, but it quit again two days later. They aren't finished trying. They have a plan. Keep your fingers crossed. We need a run of good luck this month.

Things I've learned:

1. You should vacuum under the refrigerator once a year to prevent the compressor from burning up.

2. A tiny plastic twist top off of the cheap plastic bottled drinks the kids like can float around in the dishwasher for months before it finds that perfect spot to lock up the motor on the dishwasher. (We only buy those drinks at the beach. We had a few leftovers that they finished off at home in June, and the dishwasher broke in October.)

3. Marshall's car acts as a deer magnet. (Not his first.)

4. I need a heavy duty washing machine.

Cheeks

2010-10-20T16:07:00.001-07:00

Charlie has been watching Alvin and the Chipmunks a little too much. Today, he was happy as could be and being so sweet. He smiled at me and said, "Kiss my cheeks." Then, he giggled.

Me: Charlie, don't say that anymore. It's not nice.

Charlie: Why mommy? I'm just talking about my cheeks. (pointing to his teeth.)

Me: No, Charlie, your cheeks are right here. (show him his sweet little cheeks.)

Charlie: Well, why isn't it nice?

Me: Because it was talking about your bottom cheeks.

Charlie: Kiss my top cheeks. Giggles!

I think the movie will disappear for a little while.

Charlie's Class Trip to the Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-19T17:41:00.001-07:00

This was no ordinary trip to the pumpkin patch at Moore Acres. It was so much fun!!! They started out their visit with a story. I cannot remember the name of the book, but it was about a city mouse and a country mouse that grow an enormous prize winning pumpkin. The kids loved it.

Terry Lee, Charlie, Mason, Hank, and Matthew

Then they planted their own pumpkin seeds. Charlie was less than thrilled to stick his finger in the soil to make a hole. Look at that face, too funny!

Charlie and Carter

Waiting to do the zip line.

The zip line was a HUGE hit!

The animal train was fun too! Charlie kept yelling, "Look at me. I'm on the chicken."

The petting zoo.

The tire swing was just one of the many things to play on and with at Moore Acres. They had a swing set, a playhouse that was painted in chalk board paint on the inside, petal tractors, and more. I cannot forget the nice long hay ride!

GO DAWGS!!!

2010-10-19T17:09:00.001-07:00

This past Saturday, we enjoyed a wonderful afternoon at the Georgia game. We all wore our Red and Black and cheered for the DAWGS!!! Charlie and Hank were so excited. They enjoyed watching football, eating cotton candy and popcorn, watching the planes in the sky, the band, walking through a tunnel and by train tracks to get to the game, and much more.

The funny thing was that Uncle Rich, Aunt Ashley, and Kensington went to the Tech game, and then, we all met for dinner. We couldn't have planned all of that if we tried. Check out Ashley's pictures from the Tech game on the Manross Family blog.

As soon as we sat down, the announcer said, "Timeout, Georgia." Charlie said, "How do they get out of time out? What do they do in time out?"

Hank needed a little rest. After half time, it just happened to be Hank's nap time. He was too excited to sleep. He didn't go to sleep for over an hour after we left.

Charlie and I have been teaching Hank to cheer for the Dawgs. Unfortunately, Hank likes to cheer for the Dawgs at six o'clock in the morning. Watch the little video for a peek of what we hear at six a.m. You can't hear him, but he's got the moves down.

Class Trip to the Airport

2010-10-14T19:32:00.001-07:00

Charlie's class has been going on lots of field trips this month. They have had so much fun visiting Pioneer Machinery, the local newspaper, the airport, and a group of elderly who put together fall games and snacks for them. I love to go with Charlie, but the feeling is not always mutual. One reason I like being a stay at home mom is so that I can be available to participate in activities with Charlie and Hank. But lately, Charlie is Mr. Independent! I went on one field trip, and he wouldn't give me the time of day. I think he was worried that he would have to ride home with me and not on the bus. He LOVES the bus. Marshall went on the airport field trip and had the same experience. No need for daddy on a field trip either. The next time Charlie's class went on a field trip to visit a group of elderly, I asked him if I could go. He told me I could and that I could help him and his friends. So I went. After awhile of talking to Charlie and his friends, he told me to go check on some of the other kids. He is so sweet, but growing up too fast.

Charlie's favorite part of going on field trips is riding the bus.

Enjoying the Weather

2010-10-12T19:08:00.000-07:00

Picking Apples

2010-10-12T18:39:00.000-07:00

Several weeks ago, we woke up to a free Saturday (very rare.) We started talking about some fun things to do. A friend had mentioned that she read about Mercier Orchards. We looked on-line and called. It was inexpensive, outside, and open til six. We were getting a late start. We hurried to get dressed and rode to Blue Ridge, GA. We had such a great afternoon. We enjoyed picking apples, riding the tractors, eating the yummy treats, and being together. Hank's favorites were the tractor and the homemade applesauce. Charlie enjoyed picking the apples and sampling the different varieties. His favorites were the Rome Beauties and Pink Lady.

Hank found the closest thing to candy, a candy apple. This was no ordinary candy apple. It was covered in a grape lollipop.

A busy day

2010-10-12T18:33:00.000-07:00

After school on Friday, Hank wasn't interested in lunch. He just wanted to play trains. While he was playing, he fell asleep!

Well, the alarm system works!

2010-09-22T07:47:00.000-07:00

This morning Hank tested out our alarm system. While I was getting out of the shower this morning, Hank reached high and got my keys. (The boy is like Gumby! He can reach anything.) He was quietly playing like he was locking and unlocking doors. I had no idea that he had my keys. Next thing I know, the alarm in blaring. I quickly find the keys in Hank's hands and turn the alarm off. Because he hit the panic button, the alarm company called. I couldn't remember my password. I'm texting Marshall. He calls. He can't remember either. The company is wonderful! The lady stayed on the phone with me going through several safety checks. What a morning! Nothing like a two year old to jumpstart the day.

C is for Cap!

2010-09-01T07:46:00.001-07:00

This week Charlie's class is working on the letter "C."

Today was "cap" day.

But Charlie couldn't wear his cap without his football jersey. As much as I hate dressing Charlie and Hank alike, Hank had to wear his football jersey too. Although, Hank calls it his "beeesball shirt."

Goooooo Dawgs!

Sic 'em! Woof, Woof, Woof, Woof!

Charlie is teaching Hank how to cheer for the DAWGS!

Tackle!

Two Little Cookie Monsters

2010-08-20T18:55:00.001-07:00

Erin's Cookie Jar is slowly getting up and running again. In the next few weeks, I will post an updated menu and price list. Eating cookies and brownies is one of my favorite indulgences, so I started my own cookie business four years ago. The cookie business took a backseat when Charlie was born and stopped altogether when Hank came along with severe colic. Now, Hank is two, and I finally feel ready to get back in the cookie baking groove. Now, I have brownies too. Brownies are my absolute FAVORITE! I always say I want brownies for my birthday instead of a cake. I need two pans. One pan for me, and one pan for my family. The sad thing is, this is no joke. LOL!

Tonight, I made a gift basket for a door prize. I also made a few extra treats with my helpers.

Hank loves chocolate. Today he had a piece of a Snicker bar. He ate all of the chocolate off and spit all of the nuts in the trash.

Charlie patiently waited for the leftover frosting to frost his sugar cookies.

Hank only ate the chocolate out of the center of the cookie and gave me the empty cookie shell.

Me: "Hank, NO SIR! Don't you dare! Get Down! Not more cookies tonight."

Hank: "AHHHHHHHH" crying accompanied with a high pitch squeal

It's bath time!

Charlie and Hank love it when cookies are baking. I always have to set aside extra dough and frosting just for them. Plus, they like to have the pretty finished cookies too.

First Day of Pre-K

2010-08-10T04:15:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was Charlie's first day of three year old pre-k (a.k.a. Big Boy School,) and Hank's first day of Mother's Morning Out (a.k.a. Baby School - a term Charlie created.) For the record, Mother's Morning Out was never called "Baby School" when Charlie was in the class :) They were both so excited. Hank and Charlie both had on their book bags (a.k.a. bookpack - another Charlie term) before their shoes. Hank cried when he had to take his book bag off to get in his car seat. They were so excited that they never cried or wanted to go home with me.

This is Charlie's homework.

Me: Charlie you have homework.

Charlie: Ah man, I don't want to do homework.

Marshall and I laughed at his pretend disappointment about homework. Where he learned the idea that homework was awful, I don't know. He really had fun drawing his picture of himself. He kept running back to the mirror to check out his features to add to his self portrait. So CUTE!

Working on letters "S" and :G"

2010-08-07T14:18:00.001-07:00

Working on letters has been lots of fun but more intensive than I planned.

First, we had to go buy art supplies at Hobby Lobby.

Then, we spent the next two days doing art.

"S" is for sand art.

"G" is for green, glitter, glue, and gold.

We've aslo been busy having letter races using flash cards and going on letter hunts. Charlie loves to win. Somehow, he always beats me :)

Hank LOVES candy!

2010-08-01T18:58:00.000-07:00

Hank LOVES candy!!! I know, all kids love candy, but I think Hank loves candy more than most kids. His first word was a version of please, so he could beg for candy. He was only motivated to learn to walk because he saw M&M's. It should come as no surprise that when he found a shopping cart just his size at the pharmacy, he went shopping for candy. He wanted it all, but he decided on his favorite . . . chocolate (York Peppermint Patties.) Hank was only partially satisfied because he only got to eat one.

Charlie Swimming

2010-08-01T18:36:00.000-07:00

Charlie has really grown a lot this summer in terms of his comfort level in the pool. At the beginning of the summer, Charlie would barely get off of the steps and now he is swimming! Hope the videos work, so you can see his progress.

A Day Out With Thomas

2010-07-29T19:15:00.001-07:00

This past weekend we rode with Marshall on a business trip to North Carolina. While we were there, we took the kids to "Day Out With Thomas." They had such a great time.

Hank spotted Thomas while we are picking up tickets.
(Yes, Hank has a new accessory. His new monkey leash gave him the freedom to get out of his stroller without giving us constant anxiety. However, later on in the day Hank did request to ride in the stroller.)

Hank just kept saying, "pleeeeeeeeeeaaaaasse." Luckily, we were able to hop right on to Thomas.

Charlie's imagination was racing. He kept asking where the other trains were, and he would say, "Oh, I hear Percy!"

Charlie was so busy watching and pretending. When we passed a wooded area, he told us that the train Hiro was hiding there. He really wanted all of the trains to be there. I think that he thought we were on the island of Sodor despite my best efforts to explain that Thomas was visiting us. He wanted to know where Percy's mail was, where Gordon's Express was waiting, etc. Charlie really wanted to see the Sodor Steamworks where the trains are fixed. He had to settle for the toy train museum.

Hank enjoyed the train ride so much that he did not want to get off. He laid on the floor and cried. I had to carry him off of the train.

While we were eating lunch, Hank could watch the trains. When he saw Thomas arrive, he gathered his cup and train, and said, "all aboard" and tried to get out of his chair. I think that if you pay to ride Thomas, you should be able to ride all day.

The day would've only been better if we could have planned in advance and taken our family with us to enjoy the trip and if it was a lot cooler outside.

Let's Write!

2010-07-21T13:20:00.000-07:00

Charlie and I both want him to learn how to write his name. He told me last night that I could help him learn, so today during nap time I found a fun website that let's you customize handwriting sheets. The website is called Amazing Incredible Handwriting Worksheet Maker. The worksheet looks great when you create it. When I post the worksheet on here, it doesn't look so good, but the real thing looks great. Just give it a try. I bet you'll be impressed.

Hundreds more free reading worksheets and materials at TampaReads.com

Homemade Brownies

2010-07-13T06:18:00.001-07:00

Last night, I was about to DIE for brownies. We are trying to do P90X, so there was nothing in the house sweet. However, I found the best recipe for brownies at COOKS.COM. They were so good and easy. I may never buy boxed brownie mix again. These took the same amount of time and effort as a box mix and taste so much better.

Hank was so excited that I was baking. He ran through the house saying, "cookie, cookie, brownie, brownie!" Hank and Gaga are ready for me to start baking cookies again. Maybe, I can when school starts back.

Substitution: We didn't have any cocoa in the pantry, so I substituted 4 blocks of semisweet Baker's chocolate.

Enjoy!

EASY HOMEMADE BROWNIES

1/2 c. butter
6 tbsp. cocoa
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
2/3 c. unsifted self rising flour
1/2 c. pecans

Melt butter in saucepan over low heat. Stir in sugar and cocoa, turn stove off. Add one egg and blend, then add the second egg and blend. Blend vanilla, add flour. Pour into greased 9" baking pan. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake 20 to 25 minutes.

Lemonade Stand

2010-07-11T18:00:00.000-07:00

"Curious George" and "Sid the Science Kid" keep us really busy. Charlie wants to do everything that George and Sid do on television. Most recently, we made homemade applesauce in the slow cooker similar to an activity Sid did. It was really good. It tasted like an apple pie. Marshall said all it needed was crust. Yummy!

While we were at the beach, Gaga kept saying let's go to the fruit stand. Charlie kept saying, "When are we going to buy a fruit stand?" He was NOT confused. He wanted to buy and operate his own fruit or lemonade stand. We found one on clearance Friday at T.J. Maxx. Charlie and Pappy bought Chick-fil-a lemonade, diet and regular, and sold it for a quarter a cup. He was so happy. When he wasn't getting enough business, he went in the house and had Granny come out to buy a cup or two. While waiting on customers he read a book and Pappy worked on his laptop. Charlie made almost $5. That sounds like a lot of sells, but most of his customers paid a $1 or more.

Boardwalk at the Beach

2010-07-02T05:26:00.001-07:00

Last night, we all had a great time at Boardwalk at the Beach. Honestly, we have been avoiding it all week. Maybe not avoiding it but less than interested in going. The parking lots always looked full in the evenings, and the thought of the crowds and a long wait for a table at a restaurant was overwhelming especially with three kids. So, we went early in the evening to eat at Margaritaville. We really lucked out and got a table in less than 30 minutes on the patio. We all enjoyed the food, but the kids loved the girl on stilts who made them balloon toys. Hank and Charlie enjoyed swords, and Kensington enjoyed a pink poodle. We enjoyed a few moments of peace to eat.

Of course, they spotted all of the rides immediately. We were just going to let them ride one or two things, but we all rode lots of things. It was a great night.

CRABS!

2010-07-01T07:28:00.000-07:00

If you have been following Ashley's blog, The Manross Family, you know that Pappy and Gaga bought Kensington and Charlie hermit crabs. Lucky for me, Charlie and I made an agreement before they went shopping that his crab would live at Gaga's house. Charlie's crab is named Smiley, and Kensington's is named Dora. They named their crabs because of how the shells are painted. In these pictures, Pappy is teaching them how to clean the crabs' habitats.

Hank's all day beach party!

2010-07-01T06:29:00.000-07:00

Hank had a great birthday. He woke up with an attitude. Hank gradually woke up the entire household (not really different than any other day.) We were trying to keep him quiet. We were saying, "shhhh Hank, quiet." Hank replied, "I YELL!"

He wanted to start his day with a Little Debbie cupcake. He did eat eggs first and then his cupcake. Gaga and Pappy gave him a new Thomas the train, "Murdoch." When Charlie and Kensington woke up, they gave him a box of three Thomas trains (coincidence? I think not.) While shopping, Charlie put back a package with one train to get Hank a pack of three. They kind of shared and played trains.

We spent the rest of the day on the beach.

Every day at nap time, I took Hank's wet swim diaper and swim suit off to put on a dry diapre. He always says, "I pee-pee." He trudged through the sand to the top of the sand dune. The first day, he spread his legs and held on to the fence slats. The rest of the week, he has been going no hands. He comes back, and I put a diaper on him. We put him in his stroller with a fluffy towel and cup. He took a nice long nap on the beach.

During Hank's nap time, the big kids did not rest.

Hank's birthday dinner at his favorite restaurant at the beach. We love to eat, but so far, Causeway Pizzeria is our favorite. Hank LOVES it! He likes the pizza, knot rolls, and pepperoni roll.

A homemade ice-cream cake from Painter's. Auntie Ashley, Uncle Rich, and Kensington gave Hank the Happy Birthday Thomas train.

Hank did not want to take the trains off of the cake. I finally took the trains to wash off. He cried the entire time I was gone. We had to move his plate because he wanted to put the trains back in the cake.

Our Favorite Things

2010-06-29T06:11:00.000-07:00

Kensington's favorite thing about the beach is the sand.

Me: Charlie What's your favorite thing about the beach?

Charlie: I like to drink!

Yesterday, Hank's favorite thing was throwing any kind of ball he could get his hands on while standing in the surf. Hank's favorite thing changes every day

A few more beach pictures

2010-06-28T20:10:00.000-07:00

The beach trip continues . . .

2010-06-27T19:05:00.001-07:00

Pappy, Brittany, Rich, Ashley, and Kensington arrived at the beach house really late Friday night. But that didn't stop an early morning reunion of the little cousins. They were all three in the same room. When they woke up, they were all yelling the other one's name. It was so cute. They didn't rest until everyone was out of bed. We were on the beach with our tent, cooler, chairs, floats, toys, and more by 9:30.

Let's bury Pappy's feet. By the time they were finished, Pappy's head was the only part of him left above sand. I won't say his head was sand free because these three sling sand EVERYWHERE! They did have a little help from Auntie Brittany.

Charlie and Kensington really want to find crabs. I guess I'm going to have to google crabbing or just go buy a couple.

We finally came back in around 3:30. After a good hose down outside and a good shower inside, Charlie and Kensington still had to have their hair washed in the kitchen sink to get all of the sand out.

We enjoyed a fun dinner out at a restaurant called Creek Ratz. We enjoyed eating outside and listening to the live music. Hank really enjoyed the nacho appetizer plate.

Watch out, Here we come!

2010-06-27T10:54:00.000-07:00

We 've had such a fun beach trip so far. Our cousins, Barbara, April, Colby, Jaycee, and Kaleigh, came to stay with us a few days. The kids had so much fun together in the water and sand.

This beach trip has been such a pleasant trip on the beach compared to last year. Last year, Charlie was not able to enjoy the water. He would cry and say, "the water is movin'" Hank couldn't walk yet and crawled up and down the beach. It was very frustrating. But this year they both love it!

KALEIGH

COLBY

JAYCEE

Hank has enjoyed several naps on the beach.

Pappy and Marshall are so jealous.

It started out as Charlie's sunflower factory, but

the girls got involved, and it became a house.

Charlie wasn't thrilled, but he accepted it especially

when the girls added a slide and stairs.

On June 24, we celebrated our 10th anniversary. We enjoyed a dinner out at a great restaurant called Frank's. I can't imagine not being with Marshall Frost. It doesn't feel like it has been ten years at all. I'm a lucky girl!

It's a bird, it's a plane, . . .

2010-06-25T17:08:00.000-07:00

It's Charlie with a kite on the beach!

Hank Turns 2

2010-06-15T19:24:00.001-07:00

Let the PARTY begin!

The party began Friday night when Laurel Brayden, Foxy, and Belle Belle came. They brought Hank his very own baseball helmet. Hank LOVES it!

Saturday afternoon, we enjoyed a pool party with lots of family and friends. It was so incredibly hot that the only place to be was the pool.

TREY

MARK

JENNIFER & KAITLYN

AMY & CARTER

ROBBY & CHARLIE

BRITTANY & KAITLYN

EMMA

SARAH, KATHY, & LISA

MAM-MA & THE BIRTHDAY BOY

(on his second piece of cake)

TREY

CAROLINE

GRANNY & LAUREL

COLEY

GAGA & PAPPY

ALEXIS

JACK

COUSINS

ASHLEY & LAUREL

Snuggle Buddies

2010-06-15T19:16:00.001-07:00

All Hank's idea!

Hank has decided that he has outgrowing his crib. Personally, I was hoping that he would stay in it for another year. Tonight, Marshall told Hank to come tell me goodnight. He ran into Charlie's room where I was, and said in his own way, "I sleep with Charlie." He laid down with his blanket, cup, and Charlie and went to sleep.

Splish, Splash, Splosh!

2010-06-06T12:45:00.000-07:00

Dare Devil!

His Daddy was in charge :)

Thanks Mam-ma and Granddaddy for the early birthday present. Mommy and Daddy say thank you too. We took a good nap after playing in the pool. We woke up, got back in the pool with the water hose, and played Splish, Splash, Splosh just like Thomas the Train.

A little video of us on our new water slide.

P9oX has become a family affair!

2010-06-06T12:20:00.001-07:00

2010-06-03T20:02:00.000-07:00

Reminder: Tomorrow is National

Doughnut Day

Posted on Jun 03 2010 | By Jenny · Comments Southern Savers

Tomorrow is a national holiday for Doughnuts. You don’t get to call into work, but you do get to take a doughnut in with you. Both Krispy Kreme and Dunkin’ Donuts are honoring National Doughnut Day, June 4th, by offering special deals that leave you with, you guessed it, a doughnut.

Krispy Kreme - Receive a free doughnut, no purchase required

Dunkin’ Donuts - Free doughnut with the purchase of a drink

Busy Weekend

2010-05-24T20:02:00.001-07:00

Marshall and I thought that we would enjoy a nice down weekend. Hank was getting over being sick, so we were just going to take it easy. Charlie had other plans. Charlie kept us so BUSY! It rained Saturday, so we spent the day inside. Charlie made Mitzi a bed with an old box. He decorated it too! He was so upset that she would not go in the box. I helped him cut the top off of the box. She still would not go in her new bed. So Charlie and I found an old pillow, 2 pillow cases (one for the pillow and one for a blanket), and a toy. Finally, Mitzi approved and went in her new bed. Charlie moved Mitzi's bed all over the house by her bowls, by his bed, and on his bed.

Mitzi give Hank a kiss.

Charlie will not put his hand anywhere near Mitzi's face.

We took pictures off of the wall in Charlie's room

and he decorated. All his idea. He hung tools on the wall

from his toy tool bench.

He mixed paint to make purple and painted

purple polka dots with a potato.

My idea, but he loved it.

We baked a cake, Charlie and Marshall went to the grocery store.

They bought lots of fruit and spent the afternoon making various

fruit juices. As Charlie would say, "lots of flavors."

The ideas he gets from Curious George keep us busy.

We tried to take them to the movie, but Charlie was not interested.

The good thing is that they never turned the tv on all day.

We offered, but they weren't interested.

On Sunday, we went to Marshall's company picnic at Saluda Shoals Park in Columbia, SC. The kids had so much fun. Charlie loved the water feature. Hank liked the water feature, but he didn't enjoy the cold water. He was the driest kid in the water. He steered clear of all water, but still managed to play. The covered playground was a huge hit too. We all enjoyed a BBQ lunch.

We thought that they would be asleep before we got on the interstate, but an hour later they were still awake. We fed them again, played the quiet game several times, and finally, they were out.

Mitzi

2010-05-13T19:41:00.000-07:00

Mitzi is our dog. She is a maltese that likes to bark. Since Hank was born, Mitzi has stayed with my parents on and off until it became more permanent until recently. Charlie has been fixated on bringing Mitzi home. He has her sleep with him, fills her water bowl and food bowl. takes her out, and wants her to play with him (she spends most of the time hiding from Charlie.) After the recycling idea did not work out, Charlie moved on to Mitzi. Marshall walked in just in time from work to be Charlie's helper. Charlie had decided that Mitzi smelled bad and needed a bath. He wanted to take her outside and wash her with cold water. Marshall tried his best to save Mitzi from a bath. He checked with me to make sure that this was not my idea. I told him that it was all Charlie. Charlie went upstairs and got shampoo and a towel. He had Marshall put Mitzi in the tub and bathe her. Luckily for Mitzi, Marshall made the water warm. Mitzi has been trying to lay low, but Charlie keeps finding her. Charlie wants to buy her a bed, so she can sleep on the floor in his room (ALL his idea.) and toys. Last night I went to check on them and they were cuddled up together asleep in Charlie's bed. I want to buy her a bark collar. She is a very sweet and obedient dog except when anyone comes to the door. We are going to PetSmart as soon as possible.

Recycle

2010-05-13T19:32:00.001-07:00

This morning as we were leaving to go to school, the men came to pick up the recycling. Charlie asked me what they were doing. I told him that they came to get all of our recycling. We followed the truck out of the neighborhood and Charlie wanted to know where it was going. I explained to him that they take the recycling to a company with special equipment and make things like paper plates, napkins, cups, and lots of other things. He changed the subject and didn't mention recycling until 5:00 tonight.

So tonight, he practiced cutting paper with scissors, and then wanted to recycle it. It took me a long time to follow his train of thought because he didn't just say that he wanted to recycle the paper. He kept saying he needed to put the paper in a bag and squish it up. Finally, I got what he was talking about when he said he wanted to make a cup. It was the cutest thing. I spent the next thirty minutes trying to explain to him that we didn't have the special equipment to make new cups and plates. He is definitely a free thinker.

2010-05-13T19:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we woke up at 4:30 a.m. to take Hank to get his second set of tubes and have his adenoids removed. Everyone was so nice and relaxed. The nurses explained to us that the procedure would not take long and once Hank was out of recovery, they would bring him back to the room. The nurses told us not to worry that they would rock him and comfort him. About 45 minutes later, we heard Hank coming. He was not happy. Two nurses came in the room. One nurse handed me Hank while the other held his IV bag. He was so mad. Once they got the IV bag on a stand, they left the room and closed the door. Marshall and I took turns trying to comfort him. He finally went back to sleep as I rocked him and sang to him. He woke up an hour later in a better mood asking for his cup. I guess Hank had no intention of letting the nurses cuddle him.

We were home around 10:00 that morning. Hank has been a really good sport. He has been a little crabby but overall, active and happy.

2010-05-12T17:00:00.000-07:00

Charlie and Hank have a new calendar with all of the magnetic numbers, months, and LOTS of magnets to mark holidays, events, weather, etc. Charlie LOVES it! He spent at least an hour standing in front of the calendar telling us about what each and every magnet meant according to Charlie. He also planned lots of trips, practices, and events. Here are a few of my favorite parts of his LONG explanations of the magnets.

Charlie: Daddy we are going to go catch "goophers."

Marshall: Charlie, I think you mean gophers.

Charlie: Yeah, "goophers." We are going to catch "goophers" and then buy a cage to put them in.

Marshall: Charlie say go.

Charlie: go

Marshall: say pher

Charlie: pher

Marshall gopher

Charlie: goopher

I think that he was looking at the Groundhog's Day magnet.

Charlie: Mommy you are going to go to ballet like Kensington.

Me: I am?

Charlie: Yes, you are. Me and Daddy have to go buy you some BIG ballet shoes.

Marshall is in the other room laughing hysterically.

The conversation went on and on. We finally had to redirect his attention because he was so focused. If we weren't listening and participating in the conversation to Charlie's satisfaction, he would say, "Mommy, Daddy, are you listening to me?"

Mother's Day . . . with Boys

2010-05-12T14:40:00.001-07:00

On Mother's Day we had a lot of fun together as a family.

We all went to the driving range and hit balls.

Not a typical Mother's Day activity, but it was so much fun.

Hank went and got Marshall to help him.

He went to Marshall and pulled

him by the arm to his tee as he yelled

"Elp Me!"

Hank, "one, two, three"

Charlie had so much fun. He wanted to hit the ball to the yellow flag.

He was disappointed that he couldn't get it to the flag.

He said maybe next time.

Gym Frogs

2010-05-11T05:40:00.001-07:00

We had so much fun on Friday night. Charlie's gymnastics class performed at our local Relay for Life event. They all did a great job tumbling to music. They have grown so much since November when they "performed" on the square. They looked like little ants running around on the square with Charlie standing in the middle of them all. That was absolutely precious, I should have given Charlie more warning in November about the crowd because the next week when I took him to gymnastics, he asked, "Do I get to do gymnastics on the square today?"

He was very excited to tumble again for everyone. This time, Charlie was all business. He had so much fun, and we had the most fun watching Charlie and all of his friends. Thank you Mam-ma and Granddaddy and Gaga and Pappy for coming to share in all the fun.

Getting ready to go!

Mrs. Heather is so good with them. Thank you Mrs. Heather!

Charlie in motion

Our attempt at a family picture. Oh, Well!!!!

Thirst Buster

2010-04-28T19:01:00.000-07:00

Nothing would do until Hank got Marshall's Thirst Buster.

Finally a cup big enough for Hank.

Charlie's Garden Week 2

2010-04-27T18:25:00.000-07:00

Charlie's garden is doing great. Most of its survival the first week is due to the rain and the automatic watering. He was really excited to take these pictures all by himself on Sunday.

This is my garden.

These are my peppers. See there they are. Can you see them?

These are my strawberries.

These are my 'matoes.

These are my squash.

A Sweet Deal!

2010-04-27T08:41:00.000-07:00

This Wednesday, 4/28, is Baskin-Robbins 31 cent scoop night! Get any flavor you want and enjoy a fun night out. The ice cream deals start at 5pm -8pm at stores across the country. Each person can get up to 3 scoops!

This is a fundraiser for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF). The NFFF honors America’s fallen fire heroes and their families by developing and expanding programs to recognize fallen heroes and assist their families and co-workers.

courtesy of Southern Savers

Hank's 1st Haircut

2010-04-24T12:10:00.001-07:00

On Thursday morning while Charlie was at school, Hank and I went to get his hair cut. He was really good which would surprise some people since he is typically in perpetual motion. However, Hank is usually really still when getting his nails clipped, at all doctors, having blood drawn, and now, a haircut. Way to go Hank!

Here we go . . .

Can't get a haircut without a train.

Don't worry, we fluffed those curls right back up.

Hank's favorite part . . . the lollipop!

Planting the garden

2010-04-18T16:22:00.001-07:00

Charlie is getting ready to plant.

Getting plant to put in the garden.
We've got tomatoes, squash, carrots, and basil.

Tomato seedlings

Strawberry plants too and we can't forget the bell pepper plant.

"Is it time to turn the water on yet?"

Imagine this statement repeated about 50 times.

Journaling his observations. It started out a very technical diagram of the garden, but he showed me over and over again how the water travels.

HAD to wear his boots

2010-04-16T12:35:00.000-07:00

My Garden Box

2010-04-15T06:50:00.001-07:00

Charlie has been very persistent about starting a garden. I am pretty sure that Curious George and Bob the Builder have had a lot to do with this. People have the nerve to say that media does not influence children.

Charlie found what he calls "my garden box" at Sam's in Morrow. We did not buy it. He was relentless, so we went to Augusta. The Sam's in Augusta is remodeling and is not carrying the "garden box." Of course, I had to go to the mall while in Augusta. When we pulled up, Charlie said, "Oh, this is not another Sam's." I called Pappy, and he went to Sam's in Morrow the next day to get the "garden box." I told Charlie the good news. He was really excited and called Pappy. He asked Pappy to bring it right then. Pappy worked out his schedule and came the next day. He surprised us. Charlie and Hank were so happy. Marshall was really happy too because Pappy also assembled the "garden box." Today we are going to work on getting dirt and doing some planting. Charlie, Hank, and Mam-ma did a little planting of squash, carrots, tomatoes, and basil all from seeds in Solo cups. I guess we will transfer these plants to our garden and go from there. Charlie wants to get more seeds too.

I have always liked the "idea" of gardening but never really wanted to do the work. I think this is going to be a really fun process and hopefully something we can continue. I know that I will enjoy cooking with all the veggies and herbs. Now, we just have to decide whether or not to go with organic dirt or the cheaper alternative.

Charlie brought his red plastic tool box out to help.

He had his drill and hammer ready.

"Mommy, we are working."

Curious George has also educated us all on compost too.

Maybe we can start that if our garden goes well.

Some fun pictures . . .

2010-04-14T18:31:00.000-07:00

Charlie requested that Marshall go get the camera and

take pictures of them going down the fire pole.

So, here are the pictures.

Easter Weekend

2010-04-13T06:43:00.000-07:00

Easter weekend was really special this year. Although it was one of the hardest times for our family, it was good to be together. It was really fun to celebrate momma and Rich's birthdays, have a cookout and egg hunt, go to church, and have a family dinner, but the bottom line plain and simple, Hodges wasn't here. It hurts so much. You couldn't help but have fun, but there was a silent aching for him and other times comfort in sharing memories of last Easter. It is tough to articulate in words the weekend, but Ashley does it so well on her blog Living to Die. All in all, we had a great weekend.

A family picture that wasn't meant to be.

Pappy and Hank are missing.

Hank wouldn't cooperate, and

Pappy had to fix an air conditioner at church.

Easter Egg Hunt at Mothers' Morning Out

2010-04-11T17:15:00.001-07:00

Take a little break to see what's in the egg.

Didn't really want to pick up any eggs;

until, I discovered the CANDY inside.

Mrs. Kerri took 3 wrapped pieces of

candy out of my mouth.

Oh, a cookie!

A lovely day to paint outside!

2010-03-31T11:50:00.000-07:00

Charlie, Kensington, and Hank had the most fun on Sunday. We kept thinking it was going to rain, but the rain held off for hours. They played outside and had the most fun.

Charlie asked, "Is it a lovely day to paint outside?"

He loves to paint outside on paper and rocks.

Kensington was right in her element.

Hank dabbled in the paint for a few moments at the time.

He'd rather get in the van and watch Thomas the Train.

Kensington's masterpiece with a little collaboration with Auntie Erin.

On Monday, Charlie, Kensington, and Hank all went to school together.

After school, Kensington and Charlie went to gymnastics. It was "P" day

at gymnastics. They wore their pajamas and took popcorn and pretzels for snack.

Kensington had very girly pajamas that her mommy sent, but

she wanted to be Bat Girl.

Oh, NO . . . it finally happened

2010-03-22T10:22:00.000-07:00

They discovered Chuckie Cheese . . .

Hank's favorite activity!

Half the time the balls ended up on someone else's lane.

The Rodeo

2010-03-22T10:13:00.000-07:00

Charlie and Porter had so much fun at the rodeo. Their favorite part was running up and down the hill, building haystacks to jump over, and watching the animals.

Art with Friends

2010-03-12T05:57:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday, we had a lot of fun when Charlie's friends came to play. Hank wanted to play too, but he was so tired that he had to go to sleep.

Everyone enjoyed running to find rocks

to keep their papers from blowing away.

Carter liked blue paint.

Trey really liked green paint.

Harper liked all colors!

Charlie liked to add one color at a time.

Yes, the rocks did get painted too!

Harper and Charlie played all afternoon.

They came inside to lace beads, paint some more,

do stickers, watch "Curious George," and have a snack.

What a great day!

We all slept well Thursday night.

Charlie and Hank got really sick Friday night. They both had another stomach virus and lots of congestion. We spent a lot of time in the house. Charlie enjoyed making robots, painting, watching movies, building hospitals, and much more. He would play a little while and lay down a little while. He made grand plans while he was laying still, and when he got up to get busy, he just didn't feel well enough to do everything he planned. Hank really wasn't in the mood for too much. He just wanted to be held.

Knock on wood, they seem to be back to their old selves today.

School at Home

2010-02-26T08:19:00.000-08:00

Charlie is working really hard to spell his name.

He leaves out the C and A when he spells.

Today we made CHArlie's CHAin.

It had 11 loops.

Charlie also had to make a dinosaur tail.

He made Hank one too, but Hank wouldn't cooperate for a picture.

Charlie also wanted to do music time. He brought me my camera, so I could video him. He loves to watch himself on the computer.

Circus

2010-02-26T06:44:00.001-08:00

We're going to the circus!

Somehow Charlie ended up with all the "loot."

He has a hat Kensington gave him that

came with the cotton candy,

Hank's toy, and his elephant.

We had a lot of fun. Hank even took a little cat nap during the circus.

A Cold Treat!

2010-02-15T11:35:00.000-08:00

What a real treat the snow was this past weekend! It was the good kind of snow that we are not use to seeing in Georgia. IF we get snow in Georgia, it is usually wet and slushy or icy. We all enjoyed playing in the snow. Marshall was out of town, so we enjoyed the snow in Jonesboro.

Homemade waterproof shoes were a hit! Hank would not put anything on his hands. He would play in the snow and cry. I'd wipe his hands off, and he play and cry. We kept repeating until he finally went inside saying, "hand cold, hand cold."

Charlie wanted waterproof mittens to go with his waterproof shoes. He made snowballs and stomped in the snow. He ran around outside yelling, "Happy New Year!"

Charlie was determined to make a snowman. By the time Pappy returned home with Granny, the snow had started to melt, but not before Charlie had Pappy take him and Hank to buy REAL waterproof boots and build a snowman. Pappy taught Charlie how to roll giant snowballs. Charlie and Pappy made Granny two snowmen outside of her bedroom window as a welcome home present.

Charlie was so excited about the snow that he kept saying, "It's winter. Happy New Year! Merry Christmas! Let's get presents." He came into drink hot cocoa. He and Pappy went out again Saturday evening to shovel sidewalks at the church. Charlie slept like a rock.

The snow was gone much too soon!

Hit Again by a Stomach Bug

2010-02-09T07:45:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, we have been hit again by a stomach bug. Charlie has been battling it since Saturday evening, me since Sunday, and now, Kensington is sick too.

Charlie started to feel better yesterday. He wanted Zaxby's for supper. I tried to offer him everything in the house, but no, it had to be Zaxby's. At 5:00 last night, we went through the drive thru at Zaxby's in my pajamas (didn't really look like pajamas.) Charlie feel asleep in the less than 5 short minutes it took to get home and slept til 9:00 last night.

This morning he woke up happy and ready to go to school. I got him completely ready, and he said, "Mommy, can you please not wear your jammies to school?" I laughed and told him that I would put on a pair of jeans. He told me that would be good.

Hodges Chip Manross

2010-02-03T20:13:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, our family's beautiful almost 15 month old baby (my brother and sister in law's baby) went to be with Jesus. Hodges has been such a gift to our family. He was full of his own opinions, determination, joy, and spunkiness. It is so hard to know what to say about Hodges because words cannot describe him or the love I feel for him. We are so blessed to have loved Hodges. Thank you God for the gift of Hodges.

The information below was taken from Ashley's blog Living to Die.

We are going to have a service for him this Saturday, February 6, 2010 at 4pm at First Baptist Jonesboro. We are not having a formal visitation but we will be there a little before the service, and we will stay after to visit with everyone. We are also asking that in lieu of flowers donations be made to:

SMA Kids Fund
c/o Kathryn J. Swoboda, MD
Pediatric Motor Disorders Research Program
University of Utah School of Medicine
30 North 1900 East
3R413A-SOM
SLC, UT 84132-2305 USA

SMA has forever changed our lives, and there is nothing more that we want than for a cure to be found! Thank you so much to everyone for your continued love and support! We have literally been awed by the outpouring of thoughtfulness and concern, and we will forever be grateful!

Lightning McQueen Took a Spin

2010-01-26T16:01:00.000-08:00

Lightning McQueen took an unexpected spin this afternoon. Charlie had to go sit on the potty. He usually reads books, but today, he took his Lightning McQueen. I noticed he had it in his hand but didn't think twice about it. I handed him books and went to check on Hank. He started screaming that Lightning McQueen was gone. I went to check on him, and it was definitely out of sight. There was NO way I was going to perform a search and rescue mission. I called Pappy. He told me that it would probably flush. It did. Thankfully it did not mess up the plumbing. Good thing we have three more, but Charlie still says that he needs another one. (You can never have too many cars and trains!)

An Appreciation for the Little Things

2010-01-25T16:45:00.000-08:00

Today we received a box from Aunt Darlene and Dan. We were so surprised. Charlie is usually trying to open the box and unpack it with tunnel vision. Today, he stopped when he saw bubble wrap. He didn't care about anything else in the box. With lots of excitement, he said, "Who sent us bubble wrap? That was nice." He spread it all out on the floor, and he and Hank jumped, laughed, and popped! Thanks for the entertainment.

Help SMA research win $1 Million by Simply Voting

2010-01-18T18:32:00.000-08:00

I copied this off of Ashley's blog, so I wouldn't mess it up. Please help by voting!!!!!!!!

This is IT! Final round voting for the Chase Community Giving campaign on Facebook IS LIVEand runs through January 22. Below are simple instructions on how you can vote for the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation to help make a $1M MIRACLE an SMA reality.

Please dig deep, be shameless, and go the extra mile to bring this home for all of those impacted by this cruel disease. We can't do this alone, but together we can make this happen!

NOW, GO NUTS!!

VOTING - simple instructions on how to VOTE!

Go to VoteForSMA.com -- This will take you to the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation Chase campaign site on Facebook. This is where you vote. Click on the "Vote For Charity" button to vote.
You must have a Facebook account to vote. If you don't have a Facebook account you can easily sign up for one by going to VoteForSMA.com and following the simple Facebook signup instructions.
You may only vote for Gwendolyn Strong Foundation once, but GO NUTS! telling anyone and everyone you know to go to VoteForSMA.com to vote for the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation.

EMAIL - copy and paste the text below into an email and send it to everyone you know (You can write your own more personal letter -- we just wanted to help make it easy)

Dear Friends:

This is a personal plea! A cause that is very important to me has a real opportunity to win $1M to help CURE Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), the #1 genetic killer of young children. I'm asking you to do two FREE things that will take you less than a minute and will help turn this $1M MIRACLE into a reality:

(1) VOTE ---> Go to http://VoteForSMA.com and take 20 seconds to vote for the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation in the Chase Community Giving campaign on Facebook.

(2) FORWARD THIS EMAIL ---> Forward this email to at least 20 personal contacts and ask that they do the same.

Thank you so much for your support. We can't do it alone but together we will help CURE SMA forever!

FACEBOOK STATUS UPDATES - simple instructions on how to spread the word on Facebook

Do this every day during the final round of voting from Jan. 15-22.
Go to VoteForSMA.com -- this will take you to the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation Chase campaign site on Facebook.
In the box titled "Help This Charity By Spreading The Word" on the left hand side of the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation Chase campaign page, CLICK the "Add To Profile" button.
A new box will pop open.
Add a personal comment if you wish in the white rectangular box.
CLICK "Publish".

INVITE YOUR FACEBOOK FRIENDS - simple instructions to make a personal plea to invite your Facebook "friends" to vote for the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation

Go to VoteForSMA.com -- this will take you to the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation Chase campaign site on Facebook.
In the box titled "Help This Charity By Spreading The Word" on the left hand side of the Gwendolyn Strong Foundation Chase campaign page, CLICK the "Invite A Friend" button.
A new box will pop open.
Check the boxes next to the "friends" you want to invite.
CLICK "Send Charity Voting Invitation".

TWITTER - if you have a Twitter account, simple instructions are below to tweet messages to your Twitter followers (you may be asked to login to Twitter after clicking one of the HERE links below)

Click HERE to tweet the following ---> I voted for @GSFoundation to make a $1M MIRACLE a reality and cure a disease. http://VoteForSMA.com
Click HERE to tweet the following ---> My child is dying of SMA and 20 seconds of your time WILL help CURE it. http://VoteForSMA.com
Click HERE to tweet the following ---> YOU can help CURE the leading genetic KILLER of young CHILDREN, SMA. Be part of a MIRACLE. http://VoteForSMA.com
Click HERE to tweet the following ---> What would you do with $1M? I'm helping CURE a disease. Forever. Be part of the MIRACLE. http://VoteForSMA.com