The McKinley Matters

Fishing Day

2009-08-31T11:47:00.000-07:00

The kids had a "fishing day" with Randy on a Saturday. He took them to the Skyway Pier. They only caught tiny little fish, but they didn't care - they had a blast! And Mommy got a little "me" time!

Quality Time...

2009-08-31T11:17:00.000-07:00

Finally, after all the "festivities" of the weekend, Grandma and Grandpa got to spend some quality time with the kids. Randy took them to Gulfport Beach where they got to enjoy some peace and quiet and visit. I promise Randy was around for all of the weekend fun - I just didn't have many pictures of him (sorry honey!).

They climbed trees, took Roxie for walks, and visited their favorite little pond at the church down the road from our house...

Read on the couch...watched TV...and slept...

A relaxing ending to a busy weekend visit.

February 2009 AWANA Games

2009-08-31T10:34:00.000-07:00

This was Brannon's first year competing in the AWANA games. They were the day after Grace's party, so Grandma and Grandpa got to go and watch him. It was a lot of fun -Brannon and Rusty were asked to stay and compete in the older kids games also because they were short on players...I thought I was a loud mom, but LJ definitely has me beat!!! It was great seeing all of our friends' older kids play in the games -tug of war, balloon pop, relay races...the kids have a blast and look forward to the games every year. Now I know why! It was madness in that gym - Grandma and Grandma survived, maybe a little frazzled, but they survived!

More Birthday Celebration...

2009-08-31T08:04:00.000-07:00

The following weekend, we had a small birthday party for Grace at our house. The theme I wanted for this party was just for the kids to have some F-U-N. She was allowed to invite 5 friends. I set up a bouncer outside and had planned on setting up painting (sponges, paint brushes, fingers) outside also. However, it turned cold - and I mean FREEZING COLD! We decided to still set up the bouncer, but moved all of the art stuff inside. I rolled up the rug, cleared out the front room, and set up it up for the kids. The kids didn't mind the cold near as much as we adults did!

We also had a facepainter - "Fairy Princess Fun" - come out to paint the kids faces, which was a HUGE hit!

Birthday crew...

Brannon took all of the kids on a "Backyard Scavenger Hunt" for items to fill their goodie bags. He is such an awesome big brother - he planned the entire hunt and worked on it all week! The kids loved it!

The "art" table was a hit too!!!

Cake and presents...

Bouncing fun...

Grace's "big finale" birthday
present was her new Disney Princess Bycicle!

And, thanks to Grandma and Grandpa who came down and helped tremendously with the party!

This song is a shout out NKOTB tribute for my peep Tricia!

Happy Birthday Gracie!

2009-08-14T11:25:00.000-07:00

Our little Grace turns 4! This year, we decided we would take each of the kids to Disney on their birthday - since Disney was so graciously offering free admission on your birthday! I had 2 free day passes from singing in the Disney Choir (or was it lip synching - just kidding, that was Lori and Lisa, not ME!) Since we were going to leave VERY early for Disney - we decided to have her birthday celebration the night before and let her open her presents.

Anyway, Grace was very excited
to go to Disney with just her Mommy on her
birthday...even though it POURED RAIN every second we were there - we had a blast!

First, we went and saw all of the princesses and fairies - there were NO lines (thank you rain!).

Sleeping Beauty was Grace's favorite - she talked to her for a long time and gave her a tight, lingering hug before we left - it was so sweet!

Minnie/Mickey's Playhouses, Teacups, Merry Go Round, Dumbo, Peter Pan, Winnie the Pooh, It's a Small World (4 times!), Mickey's Barnbuster Roller Coaster - we did it ALL! On "It's a Small World" Grace kept saying over and over - "Look Mommy, all the kids are reading their Bibles". Again, "thank you rain" for no lines!

Uh, did I mention it rained?

I just kept telling myself as I was
riding Aladin's magic carpet, as high up in the air as it would go, as rain was pelting me in the face: "I am the best Mommy in the world. I am the best Mommy in the world. I am the best Mommy in the world." The regular parades were cancelled due to the weather, but they did a cute little "rainy day" parade during the afternoon.

On the long hike back to the van that night, we took silly pictures on the trolly, and ran and stomped in every single puddle in the parking lot.

We stopped at Grace's favorite restaurant, Chili's, on the way home. After she got her little tummy full, she completely covered herself with whatever she could find and conked out before we even made it out of the parking lot of Chili's! Thank goodness I had brought her PJ's - we both had gone through 2 ponchos and were soaking wet from the day..I will always remember this special day with my little Gracie - just the 2 of us!

Happy Birthday Grace!

FYI - Grace's Birthday was in February! I am updating my blog a little late!

HEY SHAWTY - IT'S YOUR BIRTHDAY...

2009-02-18T06:24:00.000-08:00

A big SHOUT OUT to my birthday girl - MEA MEA!!!!! Miss you and wish you could celebrate it with me cause you know I am the funnest friend you got! We will celebrate it in May - HAPPY BIRTHDAY WOMAN & HAVE AN ABSOLUTELY AWESOME WONDERFUL DAY!!!!! LOVE YOU, ME :)

Gracias!

2009-02-14T08:50:00.000-08:00

Many thanks are due Granny and Papa for keeping our kids the week after Christmas so Randy and I could have some alone time and a "kid-free" New Years Eve. They met us in Cedar Key after New Years to deliver our little munchkins back to us - then stayed in Cedar Key for the weekend for I am sure was a much needed retreat after a week with 3 little ones! We had dinner with them and then left them alone to enjoy the beautiful sunsets and quaint little town - ALONE!

My parents will have been married 40 YEARS this summer - this song's for you - Ma and Pa...

WOOOOOOOO HOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!

2009-02-14T07:20:00.001-08:00

"Roller Coaster" is a mild description of how our lives were in 2008 - but my bloggin' for that year is done!!! I am officially a "blogger" now and am printing a blog book for '08. My scrapbooking days are over as far as family albums go - much too stressful - I am sticking to small fun projects from now on and printing my blog as our family album each year.

I can't wait to see what God has planned for me, Randy, Brannon, Jessi, Grace - our entire family - in 2009. Lots of changes, ups, downs, highs, lows, took place last year - probably one of the hardest years I have ever had to go through in my life! But I know His plan is supreme and He has only greatness in store for us! '09 here we come!

And, you know what, I LOVE Roller Coasters!

New Year's Eve 2008

2009-02-14T06:36:00.000-08:00

As with tradition for the past several years, we went out to dinner with 3 other couple friends of ours for New Year's Eve. This year we went to Roy's in Tampa - I thought the food was awesome, but the guys were less than impressed with the portion size! For the past two years, the girls have color-coordinated their clothing and this year's color was red - needless to say we were "red hot"! I managed to stay awake long enough to see the ball drop and then was out for the night - as were Lori and Adam who, both in training for whatever, went home...Randy, Marie, Mkie, Meagen and Chris - I think - stayed up until around 3 a.m.! Anyway, it was much fun and we rung in the new year with our BFF's!

Ladies and Gentlemen - Elvis has left the building...

Here's to old friends...this song's for you.

2009-02-10T10:24:00.000-08:00

Christmas in Dixie...

2009-02-09T10:10:00.000-08:00

Ahhh, Christmas - my favorite time of year! This year I let myself get especially "anxious" for some reason. I think all of the stress of putting the kids back in school, going back to work, and worrying about how we were going to "pay" for Christmas this year got to me. But, as we all know, God is good - all the time! We spent Christmas this year in Alabama at my folks. The best present in the world for me - to spend it with my parents, brothers and their families. We were all there and it was great!

Christmas Eve - trying to get a picture of all the grandkids with Granny & Papa was "fun"!

Christmas shines in the hearts of believers!

2009-01-24T07:17:00.000-08:00

Brannon was in the Christmas production our church had this year and the song he got to be a part of was "Christmas Shines". He was very excited to be a part of the program this year-usually he practices for it every year, and then we are gone and he doesn't even get to be in the actual performance. But, because of Christmas falling on a Thursday this year, the choir did part of the performance the Sunday before Christmas, and the second half on Christmas Eve. It is a big deal - full orchestra and all...they did an awesome job! Brannon is the second one from the left on the bottom row.

There's always room for a little one here...

2009-01-24T06:48:00.000-08:00

Grace's preschool is awesome! They decorated the hallway and rooms for a Christmas program. The children took their parents and family on a trip to Bethlehem, visited the stable where Baby Jesus lay, signed the census book, visited the music/drama room, showed off all of their art and work they had been working on - it was so beautiful. Grace loved taking her family and showing off all of her work and telling us about each and every little thing they had set up!

Christmas Ballerinas

2009-01-24T06:36:00.000-08:00

This was Jessi's 3rd year dancing in the little Christmas program her teacher does and Grace's first. Jess and her class did a little tap number to "Frosty the Snowman" and Grace's class did tap to "Up on the Rooftop". It was cute although Grace developed "stage fright" (I guess, or just pure stubborness) and did not move a muscle the entire song - she just stood there and stared her signature "deer in the headlight" look! But, don't they just look so sweet & cute!?!

Fall Family Pictures

2009-01-24T06:06:00.000-08:00

I wanted to get the "perfect" family picture for our Christmas card this year, so I decided to do a little photo shoot at an old barn on Randy's parents land. The weather actually turned out perfect - it was a little hazy - the perfect lighting, and the leaves and fall colors were beautiful! Many thanks to Grandpa for getting our family shot for us!

AU vs. UA...Rivals & Friends

2009-01-23T14:27:00.000-08:00

We had fun giving each other a hard time about the game (until the game was actually played at which time I gracefully bowed out). Joanna and I got some looks when we went shopping dressed as rivals...

It was a long hard trip home - we left on Saturday about 1 hour before the game started. We got to listen to it on the radio in Bama territory for about the first half, and then were driving through Tiger territory during the second half. I have never gotten so many texts on my cell phone in my life - all from Joanna and her brothers - thanks guys - NOT! I think all in all I was a pretty good sport - my text box completely filled up twice and I had to clear it just to receive more! I still sing "War Eagle" 'til my dyin' days!

Thanksgiving 2008

2009-01-23T12:11:00.000-08:00

Here is a recap of Thanksgiving in T-town with the "in-laws":

We did it all - colored, ate, played games, ate, rode horses, ate, rode four wheelers, ate, rode the go-cart, ate, rode dirt bikes, ate, climbed trees, ate, jumped on the "jumpoline", ate, decorated Christmas cookies, ate, took pictures, ate, visited, ate, acted silly, ate, wrestled, ate, picked up pecans, ate, rode scooters, ate, drank hot chocolate, ate...what else are you supposed to do Thanksgiving!?!

I love this picture of Jessi & Grace - coloring so nicely together!

Visit with Great Grandma Sivert.

TURKEY LURKEY'S!!!

Brannon lost a tooth!

Hot Momma's!

The kids loved decorating their cookies JoJo made - Ryan made a special one for his elf, Pedro, and Jessi made a special one for Elfy!
The kids also opened presents from each other for "early" Christmas...

Some of the eating...

The girls could not stay off of Ryan - every chance they got they wrestled him to the ground!

Going home (with Elfy keeping watch)!

Visit with old friends...

2009-01-07T17:33:00.001-08:00

Jessi "2", Jessi "1", Brannon, Garrett, Grace, & Jonathan

On the way to T-town, the kids and I stopped to visit with my BFF from high school, Susie. My Jessi has the same birthday as her Jessie, but her Jessie is 2 or 3 years older(?). The girls lovingly refer to each other as "Jessie 1" and "Jessi 2" and are very excited because their wonderful mommies are taking them to Disney for their birthdays this year! (If any of you don't know, you can get in any Disney park FREE on your birthday in 2009!) So, here are some pics from our day with the "Skinner's"...

OMG! What happened to my "little" Garrett?!?

And we thought Papa's tractor was "big"!

Girls Night Out...

2009-01-07T17:24:00.001-08:00

I forgot to add that while at my mom's I did get a "girls night out" with some old friends from high school. We went to Ruby Tuesday's for dinner and it was a great night of catching up and laughing about the "good ole' days!" Thanks Marsha, Tammy and Susie~it was a much needed "time out"!

"Pre" Thanksgiving Road Trip

2009-01-04T13:22:00.001-08:00

The kids and I packed up for a "pre" Thanksgiving road trip to Alabama to visit Granny and Papa. We were spending a few days there before heading to T-town to meet Randy for the Turkey-Day holidays. The kids, of course, had a blast riding the horses and getting to go to Reagan's 4th birthday party...we got to see a lot of cousins that we miss sooo much! (Sorry about some of the "ugly" shirts people are wearing!) WAR EAGLE!

Grace & Hannah
Caitlin & Daddy
Grace & Reagan
Everybody!
Me and my Rea Rea!
Dinah, Caitlin & Khris
Ma & Pa
Brannon & John Patrick
TROUBLE!

Uncle John got a deer & all the kids had to have their picture made with it! I know, gross - sorry.

Peanut and O'Henry are always glad to see the grandkids arrive - they get a lot of attention when we are there! This particular trip, Brannon and Jessi got a lot braver when it came to the horses. Brannon even cantered both the pony and O'Henry all on his own, and we nearly couldn't get Jessi off of O'Henry!

One of my favorites: Brannon & Papa riding together...

So, then we were "on the road again" driving to Grandma and Grandpa's to meet Daddy for Thankgsiving.

Alas!

2009-01-02T10:02:00.000-08:00

I am finally UPDATING my blog! I should be catching up on 2 weeks worth of bills, housework, laundry...but I wanted to do somthing fun on my day off. The kids stayed with my parents this week, Randy is at work, and I have the house all to myself. We will be leaving later today to meet Granny and Papa to get the kids. So, I am sitting here trying to remember what all has gone on since my last post - A LOT!!!

SCHOOL DAYS...
A lot of you know, and some may not, that we decided to put the kids in school and I went back to work part time. This was a very hard decision for me - I am so very protective of my babies. If I didn't have my faith in God and believe in His Holy protection over them, I don't think I could have done it - with the world being as it is today. They started the week before Thanksgiving. Jessi fell right into Kindergarten and loves her class and her teacher - who she announced after her first day was "the best teacher in the world!" I tried not to be offended and hurt, but it did sting a little.

Brannon absolutely loves his teacher, but is having a little trouble with some "bullies" in his class. Please pray as this is something we have never had to deal with before. I want him to love school and love learning - it is sad how one person can make something you love so miserable! We are praying hard for Brannon and his classmates. He was not placed in the best class, but has a wonderful teacher who I pray will help us get through the "issues".

Grace, of course, absolutely loves preschool - she is such the social butterfly! We are truly blessed with being able to place her in the loving Christian environment she is in!

MCKINLEY/JERGER FAMILY CAMPING TRIP...

2009-01-02T07:39:00.000-08:00

We managed to get in a little family camping trip with the Jerger family before the kids started school. We went to Fort Wilderness - this was the Jerger's first family camping trip ever! As you can see, the kids were ready for this trip - Jessi was the most excited because we took all of our bikes - she had just recently really gotten into riding her bike and was set on "family" bike rides. She wore her bike "gear" just about the entire weekend - it was so cute!

After the "torrential downpour" the first night, the weekend turned out to be great! Of course, our tent leaked and we (the McKinley family) ended up sleeping in the van, but all dried out and was good by noon Saturday. Randy, myself and the kids did a little sight seeing while all of our belongings were drying - Jessi got to ride the ponies, we did a little souvenier shopping, rode our bikes, and got in on the tail end of a presentation about the disney movie horses, which are stabled there at the campgrounds.

Where's that wascawee wabbit?

After lunch, Ruthie and Lori headed back to St. Pete for Ruthie's gymnastics exhibition. The rest of us, after trying to get the little ones (namely, Grace & Ellie) to nap, headed to the pool where we spent the rest of the day (yes, it was very warm!). Brannon won the hoola-hoop contest for his age group - with 3 hoops! He takes after his mom, who won the hoola-hoop contest for her age group - with 2 hoops! It was a lot of fun - all of the kids joined in the games around the pool - even Jessi! Grace and Ellie were too cute in the limbo contest!

Our newest little Auburn Tiger!

Grace & Ellie pretending to be asleep!

Believe it or not, after the extremely warm day we had, it got extremely cold that evening! We got all bundled up and Lori and Ruthie made it back (Ruthie with Medal in hand!) just in time for the campfire songs with Chip and Dale and making smores! We all stayed and watched Mulan and then went to watch the electric light parade on the water - it was the perfect ending to a great weekend!

We also saw the Price family at the campfire. They got chosen to be the "Chip and Dale Family of the Night"!

My "3 little piggies" in a blanket!

Aint nothin' like Randy's "fire roasted" Pop Tarts on a cold morning!

The kids rode their bikes on and off the entire trip. However, we finally got in a "family" bike ride the last morning! (Yes, Grace is in the picture - right behind Randy in the "kiddie" seat on his bike!)

We packed up and managed to get one last picture in front of the "leaking tent of doom" before we held an informal "ceremony" to try and stuff it in the dumpster!

It was a great trip!

Happy Gotcha Day!!!!

2008-12-05T15:38:00.000-08:00

Those of you who have been through international adoption know well what the term "Gotcha Day" means - it is that blessed, glorious occasion when that darling baby God has chosen specifically for you is placed in your arms - FOREVER! Well, today is that day for us - Grace was placed in our arms this very day 3 years ago - on the other side of the World!

My how time has flown! I remember that day well - as we were waiting right outside the door of the big conference room at the hotel we could see all of the little baby girls, with their red windblown faces, all in the exact same pink suits, not having a clue what was going on! But we all knew that God was about to place them with their forever families...

It is amazing to me, after watching some videos when we were in China, how Grace still laughs and cries the same as she did then - 3 years ago! She has our hearts - forever!

Fall Birthdays

2008-11-17T07:57:00.000-08:00

We had quite a few birthday parties this Fall. Grace is so excited to finally be getting invited to her own birthday parties for her girlfriends. She loves her friend, Avonlea, who had a Little Einstein's party - this was Grace's first party to go to without Brannon and Jessi and she loved just being with Mommy and her friends from church.

Grace also went to her friend, Julie's, "Cinderella" birthday party where Cinderella herself made a personal appearance, brought a special gift for each little girl, and sat and had lunch with the girls. Grace loved it and every time she sees anything to do with Cinderella she comments on how Cinderella came to Julie's house! Grace dressed up as Belle for this party..ain't she beautiful?!?

Jessi's friend, Ali, had a "dance" party for her birthday. It was totally awesome! The girls all dressed up in their best "dance wear" and Ali's mom and dad had built a stage outside for the girls to dance on - complete with lights, speakers and sound! The girls had a blast - their favorite song and dance was the "Cha Cha Slide". There was also a face painting artist there who was amazing! Mom even got in on some of the fun!

Jessi & Jayme ready to P-A-R-T-Y!

Girls just wanna have fun!

My Li'l Punkins

2008-11-17T07:24:00.000-08:00

Our annual pumpkin patch pictures are usually done in the 90 degree St. Pete weather with the kids in their "Fall" clothes, burning up. However, this year we were blessed with some "Fall" weather - the kids were freezing and wanting to know why I didn't bring their jackets!?! It was very nice to be "doing" the pumpkin patch in cool weather this year - PTL!

Keeping with tradition, we met our friends and got some great group shots of the kids - the Jerger's, the Stofer's and the McKinley kids - altogether make 9! We missed you this year Forzaglia's!

PRAISE!!!!!

2008-11-04T13:33:00.000-08:00

Our realtor just called and said she had a "higher" offer on our rental property. This is good, since we have had a pending "very low" offer for months now - the bank keeps stalling on giving us an answer to a short sale and has already began foreclosure proceedings on that property. Please pray that this higher offer will move them to make a decision so we can remove this "thorn from our side". This is definitely an answer to prayer!

More Fall Fun With Friends.

2008-11-04T13:06:00.000-08:00

Our friends, Mahlon, CJ, and Kaylie, came and spent one Friday morning with us when they were out of school. The weather was absolutely beautiful - we made "puffy" pumpkins, painted, made collages - all that "artsy" stuff that kids love!

Fall Kickoff!

2008-11-01T09:40:00.000-07:00

We kicked off the "Fall" with pumpkin decorating at Michael's craft store. The kids had a blast decorating their pumpkins - and Daddy was such a good sport to go with us and help! There was also an appearance by some "Pippy Longstocking - Witch"-looking person - don't know who that was!

Boots with the fur...

2008-10-30T09:03:00.000-07:00

I know this song is absolutely wrong, hideous, yada, yada, yada...but my kids love it. 99% of the time we listen to Christian music - but I do still have that little wild, rebellious, side that listens to "raunchy" music sometimes - so, check out Jessi's new "boots with the fur". (Don't forget to mute the playlist music at the bottom.)

BELIEVE

2008-10-29T06:12:00.000-07:00

A lot of "stuff" has happened to a lot of good people in my life recently. I heard this song on the radio yesterday and it lifted me up somewhat. Sleep does not come easily to me and I do a lot of praying:

**a dear babysitter and beautiful 13 year old girl diagnosed with anorexia and is in a treatment facility right now fighting for her life. We love you and are praying for you.

**one of my best friend's in the whole world has a thyroid "situation" for which she is undergoing surgery the first week of November - I love you Cheri and am praying for you.

**a different friend who went through a thyroid "situation" just a year ago went back for her 1 year check up and "it" has returned - an extremely rare form of thyroid cancer - she told me in church Sunday "we are going to battle again" - I am praying for you and your wonderful husband Jo.

**a co-worker and friend who absolutely loved to see my children come into the office passed away this week - lung cancer - took her life in a matter of weeks. The last time I was in the office I left her a note because she was out that day. We never know when the last time is that we are going to see someone - I missed her that day and never saw her again.

**a friend who is going through an extremely tumultuous time with his business - stay strong - it's all in God's hands and He loves you.

*Randy's dad just had prostate surgery - Praise God! it was early detection. His recovery is going great and we can't wait to be with them at Thanksgiving!

With all of this "stuff" going on right now, along with everything else in the world: the economy, the election, the war, etc., etc., it's hard TO BELIEVE sometimes. But, we HAVE TO BELIEVE or else how could we get through it - or how could God get us throught it?

You know, over the past five years I have struggled with depression and anxiety - it is a constant battle for me - I absolutely hate it. But I love God and know that He loves me and I have to believe - He is forever faithful and true. My "problems" are nothing - God has them in His hands.

We all just simply have to believe. This song is very powerful - to hear the entire song - scroll down and mute the playlist music, then click on the second picture (sunset) to the left of this post.

Joyfulness...

2008-10-20T15:20:00.000-07:00

The kids are learning about "Joyfulness" this month for our character trait study. So, our theme song each morning has of course been "Trading My Sorrows". Joyfulness over "self pity" is what I am trying to instill in my children (as well as myself!).

"For the joy of the Lord is your strength." Nehemiah 8:10
"Weeping may endure for a night but joy cometh in the morning." Psalm 30:5

Homesick.

2008-10-20T07:14:00.000-07:00

I am so homesick right now. I miss my brothers, my mom, my dad, my Granny, my Papa, my aunts and uncles, my cousins, my nephews, my sisters (Jo Jo, Marsha, Crystal, Amanda), Randy's family...It doesn't help that the kids are always asking when are we going to Grandma and Grandpa's or Granny and Papa's - and that Brannon wants to call his uncles all the time now and just "talk" to them.

Also, SEC football doesn't help, cooler weather, it's "hot boiled peanuts" time...Even though my team - well, anyway, no matter what: WARRRR EAGLE! Anyhow, just feeling a little sentimental and wanted to "blog" it. Gotta get to schoolin'.

Playtime with Purrr-er...

2008-10-19T15:29:00.000-07:00

I just don't know what we'd do without that three-legged cat! The girls love her and take care of her just like a baby - they will both make excellent mommies one day! Our cat and dog get more lovin' than any animal I know.

Getting Back to Nature

2008-10-19T08:14:00.000-07:00

Homeschooling has brought a lot of creativity on my part in getting all of the "subjects" into the school week. So, we have had several nature walks to get our science in.

Our first trip was to Sawgrass Lake Park where we observed turtles, birds, trees, and were pleasantly surprised to get to see baby alligators, and their HUGE, protective mother. We found out later that out of the 15 babies we counted, only 3 or 4 would probably live - the mother actually eats them! The kids also made "nature bracelets". They were so excited about our "baby" discovery that we had to take Daddy to see them after he got home from work that day! We made a Biffburger picnic dinner out of it - yummmm!

A few weeks later, we visited Boyd Hill Nature Preserve where we saw birds of prey, chickens, and went a hike and climbed a cool tree! Oh, and some "alien" creature in a tree - which the kids thought was so cool - Grace was scared of it!

AWANA: Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed

2008-10-19T07:55:00.000-07:00

We are AWANA Cubbies - we're happy all day long - la, la, la, la, la-la! Gracie LOVES being a Cubbie this year - she is so proud of her vest and Cubbie's book and all of the activities she gets to do! Her favorite so far was her "See how I've grown" chart we had to do. She was so proud of her little project and it gives me special one-on-one time with her each week. The sad thing for me in doing the growth chart was realizing I have not printed any pictures from 2007 or 2008! I had to print some updated pictures of her on the computer in black and white!

Jessi is in her first year of Sparks - Brannon in his third. Jessi loves Sparks and just earned her "Hanglider" badge last week, which I have already sewn on her vest. Poor Brannon, due to mine and Randy's "failure" as parents, is behind because we didn't finish the year out in Sparks last year. He has to finish his "Blue" book before he can go into the "Green" book like all of his friends. He doesn't mind though - it bothers me more than it does him!

I hope you dance...

2008-10-19T07:26:00.000-07:00

Yes, we are in our second month of ballet/tap. Ms. Wendy asked Jessi at one of her classes if she had taken "ballet pills" that day because she was doing so wonderfully! Grace is doing awesome - she had to have some "pep talks" the first few weeks, but is now settling in and doing great! Here are some pictures from their first day at ballet.

Grace & Hannah

Jessi & Hailey

Still here.

2008-09-12T07:30:00.001-07:00

Hi all! We are still here - trudging on in homeschool (and,sorry, I don't know if that's really a word). We have been doing lots of reading, writing, arithmatic, and fun, but hot, nature walks. Brannon started co-op today and was extremely excited, especially since a lot of his "peeps" (shout out to you Mea Mea) from his old school are attending also. He is signed up for 5 different classes - and surprise, surprise, 2 of those classes are "science/nature" related. The Kindergarten class was filled up, so Jessi, Grace and I will be having "special" bonding time on Fridays - woohoo!

The girls both started ballet last night - Grace's first year and Jessi's third. They were so excited to go, especially Grace who begged to go last year, but wasn't old enough. She says that we have 2 ballerina's now! Any of you who know Grace know that she cannot be still for more than about 30 seconds at a time! My completely active child completely zoned out in ballet - I mean "deer in the headlights" zoned out! I couldn't believe it - every now and then she would twirl or do what her techer was telling her, but mostly was in a complete blank stare the whole class! I am going to give her a few weeks - if she doesn't improve - I just don't see me paying the inflated costs, plus recital costume, for her to chose that time to be her "quiet time"! Jessi was a little pistol too! I was not happy with the way she behaved for the first class. Randy and I are blaming it on the extremely late night we had Wednesday with AWANA and no naps on Thursday. So, we will adjust, as usual, and see what happens!

Grace has been getting in soooo much trouble lately - lying, destroying property (and I mean DESTROYING), disobeying - you know all the stuff I guess 3 year-olds do. Although I seem to have forgotten Brannon and Jessi went through this same stage. It is constant and completely wears me down - physically and emotionally. So, I have taken some advice from a friend and am keeping Grace by my side - COMPLETELY - for one whole day and have explained to her that - until she shows me she can be trusted, show that she can make good choices, STOP LYING (which is my MAJOR concern), obey, obey, obey (just like the Good Book says) - that she will have to stay by my side constantly, even if I go to the kitchen to get a drink, go to the bathroom, ANYTHING, she must go with me. She is not liking it at all - so maybe it will work. Please pray.

So, as Lori blogged last week - "it's on" - all the activities that come with Fall and school. I know my schedule is not as hectic as some, but it is enough for me!!!

School Days, School Days, Good ole' Golden Rule Days!

2008-08-31T14:05:00.000-07:00

We offically have started the "McKinley House School of Rock" where our motto is "we rock!" Jessi began Kindergarten and Brannon 2nd grade - they both are doing great and I am so proud of them for being so patient with me. I have only cried about 3 out of the 8 days we have schooled so far! We have gotten through letter "E" with Jessi's phonics, and she is going great with the "1st" grade level math I started her in. Brannon is wanting to read all the time - which is making my life a lot easier, and he is chugging right along in math with no problems. We are also doing some geography and science along the way. Grace is flying through all of the preschool stuff I got her and wants to do the phonics with Jessi. Who knows - she may be reading at the end of the year too!!! BTW - don't get used to all this posting - I can't sleep and can't eat so this is what I have been doing, and with a 3-day migraine to boot!

Girls just wanna have fun...

2008-08-29T12:30:00.000-07:00

Mommy and daughter ready to P-A-R-T-Y!

Jessi in her "mircrophone in one hand-leg up dancing-rocker Barbie stance".

Jessi's party was a blast - all of her friends came dressed and ready to "rock"! Thanks to Ms. Tricia, we had the colored hairspray thing going on for the girls! Even the "big" girls, as you will see, got into it! The big boys did their typical "thing" and all sat around the TV in the family room - completely alienating themselves from ALL the fun!

The first game was an air guitar contest for the boys to "We Will Rock You" - special request by the Hoskins Boys! Pretty sad that none of the boys knew what an "air guitar contest" was and I had to explain it to them. The judges were Paula Abdul (a/k/a Sarah Price), Randy Jackson (a/k/a Tricia Davis), Simon Cowell (a/k/a Mary McGriff), and it was a unanimous vote for "Johnny B" Bunner who - hands down - stole the show!

Next were the girls who rocked out to "Pocketful of Sunshine" - Jessi and Grace's fave song right now. Again, it was a unanimous hands down vote for Jaime Konja who "rocked it" the hardest!

Randy, Paula and Simon - Thanks Judges!

Ruthie & Makayla - Rock on!

Jen & Ali - Bad girls!

The Davis Five - what a hoot! (Thanks Tricia for the colored hair spray!!!)

Jen & Ashlynn - a/k/a Material Girl & Hannah Montanna

Elijah and Ashlynn look mighty guilty of something!

Our little Gracie singin' her little heart out!

Opening presents!

The Cake (Not quite how I pictured it, but Jessi loved it!)

We are the world...we are the children...

Moms just wanna have fun too!

How could I forget one of the cutest pics of all - Ellie! Shoes make excellent microphones, you know!

The day after was "nap day" for one tired little girl and her daddy! But not for me of course. I spent the day cleaning and putting the house back together! Happy Birthday Jessi!!!

Back to the party...

2008-08-28T19:04:00.000-07:00

Okay, my posts got a little screwed up and not in the order I wanted them, but oh well...I started decorating for Jessi's birthday party Thursday - the party was Friday night at 7 p.m. I wanted to make the front room into a "dance hall". When all was done, Jessi loved it!

Here kitty, kitty, kitty...

2008-08-28T18:13:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, we have a little 3-legged critter affectionately named "Purrrerr". She is the best little kitty in the whole world and the girls treat her like a little baby. They dress her up, push her around in the doll stroller, carry her around in boxes, baskets, whatever they can find! I couldn't help but sneak a few pics and video of her all dressed up and "no where to go"! Obviously, Jessi is not "dressed up" - her new thing is to lounge in her pajama bottoms all day with no shirt! (Brannon is the videographer...)

My summer...

2008-08-28T13:49:00.000-07:00

My last day of work was August 8 and on the same day we left to go to Alabama for 4 days. And yes, I forgot my camera - AGAIN! So, now I will probably have to wait a year or two before I get copies of pictures that my dad took...Anyway, we had a great time and the kids absolutely loved riding the horses, Gator, and playing with their cousin Reagan! I get sooo "homesick" when we have good trips like that.

So, basically I had about 1 1/2 weeks of a "summer" before we started school. In the week after we got back from LA, I crammed in visits with friends that I had not gotten to see much due to working over the summer.

We spent our last day of "freedom" with Ryan and Sakari. The morning was yucky so we just played "dress up" at our house.

After lunch, we decided to take the kids to the beach. Surf was definitely up and the waves were rockin'. Just as the kids and I are unloading the car, my realtor called and said she wanted to show the house in about an hour from then! So the kids got about a half hour in of play time and we had to run back to the house to pick up from the morning "hurricane"! My realtor walked in to Brannon in the tub, the girls running through the house naked waiting to get in the tub, and me in my wet bathing suit frantically throwing things in closets, the dishwasher...you get the picture! She proceeded to get the girls dressed and politely told me I might want to put on a shirt "or something" before the lady came in to see the house. Anywho, I am rambling - we got er'done and all was fine.

I also got to visit with my friend Dana after watching her precious little Luke while she had a doctor's appointment. Jessi, Brannon and Grace loved being babysitters - Jessi and Brannon both got to give him a bottle. While Jessi was giving Luke his bottle, we asked her if she wanted a little baby like that and she point blank with the sweetest little smile on her face said "No". Grace also got to play with her buddy Elijah and Dana and I actually got in some decent adult conversation!

So, that was my summer - all crammed into about two weeks!

Oh, and by the way, it's official - our house is on the MLS for sale!

Also, we still have the investment property that has NOT sold. Please pray for quick and easy sales of both of these properties. I know all of what is going on right now with finances is in God's hands and I have faith He will provide a way out.

Preparation...preparation...preparation...

2008-08-23T13:57:00.000-07:00

Preparation for "Jessi's Rockin' 5th Birthday Bash" began on Wednesdaynight, August 20, when I decided to make the front door birthday sign - 4hours later at midnight I was finally done!!! I thought it turned out pretty darn good!

Also, I had to find myself the perfect outfit for the party - I am the mother of the birthday girl after all! So, the trying on began...

My friend Meagen said I had to wear the white dress - I mean you can see the shoulder pads and everything! I also challenged all of the other moms to dress up in their best 60's, 70's, or 80's dance wear for the party - I mean what better time to party with our girls than when they are 5 - they still think we are beautiful and cool and don't get embarrassed by us!

Just a test...

2008-08-18T12:03:00.000-07:00

I uploaded ALL of my pictures since June on Snapfish without also saving them to my hard drive, not even thinking they may not upload to my blog...

Aaahhhhh!!!! What am I going to do?!? I had to first right click and save this pic onto my hard drive from Snapfish, and then even chose the "large" option to upload it to my blog and this is what I get! Can anyone offer me any help?!?

Forever Friends...

2008-08-13T11:03:00.000-07:00

by America World - thank you.

Back to Nature...

2008-07-30T06:13:00.000-07:00

We visited a "little known area" in St. Petersburg this past weekend called Weedon Island Preserve - 3600+ acre nature preserve. We did a 3 mile guided hike and, although it was HOT, the kids had a blast. The guides were awesome and made a point to show the kids lots of cool stuff - like the giant spiders, fidler crabs, mangrove crabs, fish carcases, gofer tortoise holes, horseshoe crabs, etc, etc.! BTW - did anyone know that a horseshoe crabe is actually a pre-historic spider?!? We cooled off in the nature center and classroom indoors after the hike. This was a relaxing and much needed outing for our family. Here are some pics - enjoy!

Birthday song from Gracie...

2008-07-28T06:41:00.000-07:00

You have to scroll down and pause the blog music:

Happy Birthday Ryan James McKinley!

2008-07-28T05:52:00.000-07:00

Dear Ryan, We wanted to wish you a very special Happy Birthday! I am going to try and have the kids make you cards today. We planned on doing this yesterday, but Brannon has been running a 102 degree fever since early Sunday morning and has a very sore throat. So, we included some pictures from this summer in your e-card and some of them are from a nature preserve we hiked Saturday morning...it is a really awesome place. The kids can't wait to take Grandma and Grandpa when they visit in October! Hope you have an awesome day! We will get your gift mailed this week! Love, Aunt Dinah :)

P.S. Your mom will have to scroll down and "mute" the music so you can hear the music that goes along with the e-card.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

A Date with Daddy

2008-07-26T16:37:00.000-07:00

Brannon had a spend the night party this Friday, so I decided it would be a great time for the girls to have a "date night" with Daddy. Well, Jessi fell asleep around 5 p.m. and there was no waking her for the "ball". So, Grace got 100% of the attention (which she absolutely loved!) of being "fashioned" for her date with Daddy! We did clothes, shoes, makeup and hair - it was a great "bonding" experience - not just for she and her Daddy, but also for she and I. She loved being pampered by Mommy and Daddy both in one night with no interfernce from her brother or sister. They went to Chili's and had appetizers and then to the pet store to get some supplies for Brannon's Beta, Swimmie, who apparantly has "tail rot" - another story for another time. Anyway, the date was wonderful, according to Grace, and she played the princess part to the "T", according to her proud Daddy!

HOME SWEET HOME...

2008-07-25T12:11:00.000-07:00

Well, we had our first "lookers" in our house last night - they were not interested. But, MY HOUSE WAS SPOTLESS for one short night. Now, it looks like always - toys scattered here and there, beds ruffled, dishes in the sink... I had very mixed emotions last night as we drove away to let the people look at our home. I told Randy (half jokingly, half serious) - I don't want to sell "my" house :( But, it's not "my" house. It is God's - just like everything else I am blessed to have - all gifts from the Holy One above. I have been struggling with a lot of "stuff" lately - I am fine one minute, then I am bitter, then I am angry, then sad. Yes, I could work full time and we would be "livin' large". But we make sacrifices for our families, don't we? (BTW - I HATE budgeting! Let me tell you, God's working on me right now!) Here are a few pics of my "clean" house that I snuck (is that a word?) last night...

I remembered why we are doing what we are doing while I played on the floor with all three of my kids this morning for over an hour doing crafts, making cards, playing...not worrying about anything but just being.

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 28:11

Happy Birthday America!

2008-07-11T09:34:00.001-07:00

OUR BLESSED AMERICAN GIRLS!!

We celebrated the 4th at the beach with the Jerger's in celebration of Ellie's 2nd birthday and "coming to America" party! We were not planning on staying for the fireworks, but the kids begged and we stayed. After a fun afternoon and many "ooh's" and "ahh's" over the fireworks, we finally got home around 10:00 p.m. Jessi sported her "Fourth of July" braids - I have also included an "after" picture when we took the braids out on Saturday. She wore them for 5 days!

Keeping it real...transparent...back to God...

2008-07-10T08:35:00.000-07:00

Well, SOME of you guys "ordered" me to update my blog, so here it goes - and boy are you getting "updated":

I am going to "throw" myself out there and be completely transparent. My life has been spiraling out of control for about a year now - I haven't been right with God, Randy, my children, my job, my home, certain friends - you name it. Well, as usual, God does what any loving father does, and reals me back in to reality and challenges me to "step up" or keep spiralling out of control until I crash and burn. As many of you know, I have been "down" before, and have absolutely no desire to ever be there again! So, I have decided to step up and do what God wants me to do and not what anyone else wants me to do.

I have been studying my Bible a lot and after reading this verse, it all made sense. I was reading about Deborah, the prophetess, who tells Barak: "...Go! This is the day the Lord has given Sisera into your hands. Has not the Lord gone ahead of you?...". The story goes on and yes, the Lord has prepared the way and everything is just as He promised Barak. The study notes in my Bible indicate that "...it is essential that God goes before us to prepare they way; unless He guides us along the way, our endeavors will fail. Consequently, we must earnestly seek to be open to God's continual leading in our lives." I realized that I have been closed to "God's leading" in my life for a long time. This "leading" is different for each and every person, according to God's will for that person.

The majority of my life has been spent pleasing others and letting my happiness depend on the happiness of others - even to the extent that for the past several years I have been pleasing everyone except my husband and my children - our family. I only wish that I could take back all of the ugliness and anger projected onto Randy, Brannon, Jessi, and Grace - but I can't. However, I can begin this day NEW with Christ and go the way that God has prepared for me and my family.

After much praying, talking, crying, yelling; more praying, crying, talking, yelling; etc., etc. - a lot of difficult decisions in the interests of our sanity, financial security, family, spirituality, and relationship with God and each other, have had to be made by Randy and myself these past few weeks.

As many of you know, we have our last investment property for sale and would ask that you please pray for a quick sale as we are no longer able to make payments on it.

Also, I will be homeschooling Brannon and Jessi this year, and therefore, we are making sacrifices in order for me to be home full time. One of those is to sell our house. We would ask for prayer in this area as this has probably been the most difficult decision for us to make. I am totally at peace with this and know that God is in control.

Now that all of that is off my chest, I want to say how excited I am to see what God has planned now! I am busily getting ready to start our school year, ordering books, making lessons plans, and preparing daily schedules for myself and the kids. The kids are excited too, and we have already begun some preliminary "warm up stuff" just so I can get a feel for what it will be like teaching two. I already know that my biggest challenge is going to be our little Gracie - I am going to have to get very creative with her!

Please add "us", the McKinley's, to your prayer lists and stay tuned for all the awesome happenings I know lie ahead!

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-17T05:53:00.001-07:00

Make a Smilebox free ecard

Our Broadway Baby...

2008-06-13T14:26:00.000-07:00

Jessi had her dance recital last Sunday, and their dance this year was a little tap number to "Broadway Baby". She is a "true diva" when it comes to dancing on the "big stage". She has to sit in her "special chair" at home to get ready and loves the hair and makeup! This is our second year with Judith Lee Johnson dancing and she loves it. At Jessi's request, we went and had Chinese buffet after the recital and "chowed down" on some major food! Grace and Brannon held up "okay" at the recital. Out of 30-somthing dances, we were #31!. I felt really bad for Randy - I was a "stage mom" so he had Brannon and Grace by himself for about 3 hours (in the audience) before Jessi even danced! Grace was showing her "true colors" that all of you out there don't get a chance to see very often and Randy was quite frazzled when we saw him at the end. Grace will be old enough to dance next year, so she won't have to sit in the audience and "suffer"!

DRESS REHEARSAL...went off without a hitch. Jessi took a nap right after church and woke up a little angel! Dress rehearsal was the week before the recital, and the girls had to get all "dolled up" just like the actual recital. Jessi's friend, Jamie, came over to get ready at our house just like last year. The girls posed for many, many pictures - it is so hard to post just one of them, but we are in the middle of a major thunder storm right now and I am trying to finish this post fast! We also caught up with Jessi's friend, Ashlyn, at rehearsal and snapped a quick shot of the two.

RECITAL DAY...started off horrible! I had Jessi take a nap before we had to be at the recital, and getting her up and ready was a nightmare - to say the least! I was putting her makeup on and fixing her hair as she is screaming and crying - I'm talking major tantrum! Jamie came over to get ready with us to keep with tradition, and Jessi finally calmed down and let me get her ready. I honestly did not know if we were going to make it, or if she would even go on - but "diva mode" kicked in and we made it!

Oldies but goodies...

2008-06-06T14:33:00.000-07:00

We took our first camping trip with all of our friends from church back in October 2006 to Little Manatee River State Park. I was just browsing my sister-in-law's pictures (her link is on my blog "Aunt Crystal's Pics"), and found these pictures that made me realize how much the kids have grown in just a short amount of time! Also, I have to say that I am guilty and had completely forgotten about this trip. I remember now that I actually forgot my camera. I was soooo happy to stumble upon these "gems" on her site.

Sleeping bags, smores, hotdogs - what campin's all about!

Jammin'.

Grace "testing the waters".

"Us" with Aunt Crystal and Uncle Brad.

Grace taking a stroll with Uncle Brad.

P.S. There were A LOT of families that went on this trip with us. If anyone wants to order copies of pics, you can order them from Crystal's website. Let me know if you have any questions. There are a lot of pictures of people we don't even know!

My turn...

2008-06-02T17:40:00.000-07:00

Sorry Mae-Mae for taking so long. I thinkg you "tagged" me last week. So, here are 7 "little known" facts (don't know if they're "known" or not) about moi:

1. I was born Dinah Brannon - no middle name. My daddy always said I would get one when I got married. He was right!

2. I have 3 younger brothers that I love dearly, along with their beautiful wives and 3 handsome little nephews!

3. I grew up in LA.

4. This is weird because I am normally not "short" for words.

5. Um, my neck hurts really bad because I have been sitting at the computer ALL DAY!

6. I'm really not into this tonight.

7. Surprise - I am truly a "redneck girl" at heart. Yes, I know it's hard to believe. I love God, my man, my kids, my family, my friends...and Lynard Skynard! I say "mash" the button instead of "push" the button; I say "hey ya'll" and "yeeeeehawwwww"; I say "fixin'" when I am referring to doing anything. I eat "Chaluppers" from Taco Bell instead of Chaluppas; my bluejeans, boots and cowgirl hat are my favorite duds. But, the most important thing I know about myself is that I love my God and I know He loves me. I don't deserve ANYTHING God has blessed me with, so I remind myself every morning to do everything in my power to thank and praise Him for my wonderful husband and 3 beautiful little ones who bring me joy (even when I say they don't) every second of every day!

Okay, so now I have to "tag" someone else, so Jen G. "tag - you're it".

IT'S SUMMER...

2008-06-02T16:30:00.001-07:00

3 sillies ready for summer - what are we to do?!?

Pomp & Circumstance.

2008-06-02T16:13:00.000-07:00

Our little Jessi graduated from pre-school last Friday -
it was a sad time for Central Christian Preschool for after 37 years it closed it's doors. I felt blessed to have my girls attend this past year. Some of the teachers had been there since the beginning and it was very emotional with this being their last "graduating" class. Jessi received her "diploma" with a big smile and celebrated with some of the girls that she also goes to church with. We had a good time and everyone is now ready for the summer! Gracie also had her last day and her teacher, Mrs. Baker, was crying when we picked Grace up. Thank you Central Christian School for taking care of my girls this year!

Life...

2008-05-31T05:48:00.000-07:00

Someone very close to me was in a very bad wreck Thursday morning. He escaped with only a scratch. An angel was with him in the truck - he is alive for reasons only God knows. And, I was up all night, thanking God that he made it. This is not the first time this person has survived what seemed to be an "unsurvivable" circumstance. What amazing plans God must have for him! Thank you Lord for saving my brother.

Boy Scouts of America

2008-05-30T17:43:00.000-07:00

Brannon's Boy Scout group had it's end of the year cookout at the Veterans Park in St. Petersburg about two weeks ago. Before eating the boys, and siblings, enjoyed water bottle rockets, stilt walking, and just good ole' playin' in the dirt. Awards were given, and Brannon received the first half of his Religion Emblem (which a very small percentage of Boy Scouts receive), and we were very proud of him! After lunch, some of the boys got to throw pies at their leaders - the boys absolutely loved this! The cookout ended with a water balloon fight - between adults and kids! It was a great way to end the year with the Troop and begin the summer break! And, yes, these are the "best" pics I have - my camera battery went dead after about 4 pictures!

Busy, Busy, Busy...

2008-05-30T17:23:00.001-07:00

I have been very busy this week:
moving, rearranging, cleaning, putting shelving units and other furniture together. As you will see, Jessi and Grace are now sharing a room and the "nursery" is now officially a play/craft room for the girls (& Brannon, who is now old enough that he prefers to have most of his "stuff" in his own room - out of the girls' reach!). We did this in hopes that Jessi will sleep in her own bed now that Gracie is with her. The girls were very excited to be in the same room together. Yes, I know - we are "terrible" parents - Jessi is almost 5 years old and still in our bed. Hey - to each their own! Anywho, it has been 2 nights now and Jessi has made it until about 4:00 a.m. both nights before she crawls into bed with us. Any progress is good progress, right?

Heartbreak.

2008-05-27T06:41:00.000-07:00

I have had a lump in my throat since last Thursday morning when I found out about the Chapman's youngest daughter, Maria. I called Randy, questioning everything I have come to believe, questioning God...Randy said don't, but I still am. I don't understand, but my faith in God and my love and trust in Him keeps me praying for that family, even though I don't and probably never will - understand. I can't even begin to imagine what they are going through. So, even though I don't know them, personally, I am a sister in Christ and have an obligation to pray for and love them. I would ask that anyone who reads this to please lift them up. My heart just breaks for them and their loss. After such a tragedy, "In God We Trust"...

Crashed, Breakdown, Gone, Sorry, Home...

2008-05-20T07:14:00.001-07:00

One of my fave artist is Chris Daughtry - mainly because he reminds me so much of one of my little brothers. And, any of you who know Brad, will definitely agree with me! Daughtry, and his song titles, hits the nail on the head with all that I have been going through the past few months. His songs: "Crashed", "Breakdown", "Gone", "Sorry", and "Home", explain a lot. I basically "crashed" into a "breakdown"; was "gone" to Alabama for a while; had a lot of "sorries" to say; and then came "home" "where I belong". While visiting "LA" (lower Alabama), we went down to those beautiful "sugar beaches" to visit my Aunt Lisa, Uncle Steve, Tader Bug (and James), who were vacationing. My sister-in-law, Crystal, also went and took some beautiful pics as you will see. What started out to be a time of turmoil for me ended in an awesome time of healing and clarity! I thank Randy for allowing me to go; my parents (and Uncle Ronnie) for putting up with me and the kids for a week; my sister-in-law, Marsha, for just being a friend and letting me vent; and to God for healing my heart and soul!

Mother's Day

2008-05-13T06:12:00.000-07:00

First of all, I want to thank the Good Lord Above for my children and making me a mother. For as long as I can remember, all I ever wanted was to get married and have children - it took me a little longer than most, but just look at what God has done!

I also took time on Mother's Day to remember the woman God used to bring Grace into the world. We don't know her and never will, but I do know and am so very thankful that she made the decision to carry a child for 9 months and place that precious little one where she would be found and brought home to her "forever family". Thank you. Also, Grace was in a foster home from about 4 days old until her "gotcha day" at about 10 months old. We are so grateful to her foster mom, who obviously did such a wonderful job of taking care of her and nurturing her for those 10 months. From day 1 with us, Grace has always had a smile on her shining little face! God is good - ALL the time!

We're back...

2008-05-10T07:55:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! After a long past 10 months, I am again back and ready to keep up with affairs, such as posting to our family blog so that all of you out there that we don't see too often can keep up with us(or try anyway). These past months have been full of working part time, homeschooling part time, wife"ing", mothering, cleaning, cooking, socializing, daughter"ing", daughter-in-law"ing", hosting, babysitting, scrapbooking, crafting, churching, boy scouting, ~ you name it, I've been doing it!

Jessi was 4 last August and had a wonderful little "Princess Tea Party" with her bestest friends! Grace was 3 in February with a HUGE party at Walter Fuller Park, and Granny and Papa were able to come and join us for this celebration! Grace still, today, talks about her "birthday party", and when she gets upset with anyone simply states: "Fine! Then, you can't come to my birthday party!"

Brannon just celebrated #7 in April and had his first "spend-the-night" party with a "Mad Scientist" theme. He and 3 of his friends started the party with a "big bang" by watching Daddy do the "Mentos in the 2-liter Diet Coke" experiment. But, I have to admit, the dry ice was the hit of the party - who knew such a "cheap" prop could be so much fun!

Brannon sucessfully completed First Grade on May 7 with his Charactar Award being "Compassion"! We are so proud of him - he had a lot to do this year. Jessi will graduate from VPK on May 30 and, believe it or not, be in Kindergarten next year! I can't wait for that journey to begin - to see how different she is from Brannon! Grace is my little "button pusher" right now, meaning, she does whatever it takes to push my buttons! She is such a sweet, bright, joyful, little ray of sunshine - with a side to her that is testing the limits on everything. Lots of prayer is getting me through it all! Now that Brannon is out of school for the summer, and the girls at the end of this month, I can focus on the "simpler" things in life! Hope you guys enjoy these pictures from these past 10 months, which include pics from: pets, Fall fun, trip to GA, Christmas, visits from family/friends, Randy's latest birthday, etc. Enjoy!

Happy Mother's Day!!!

2008-05-09T17:28:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox free ecard

Happy Mother's Day!!!!

2008-05-09T16:56:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox free ecard

2007-09-09T18:24:00.000-07:00

more updates...

2007-09-09T18:09:00.000-07:00

Updates, updates, updates!!!

2007-09-09T17:51:00.000-07:00

Hello all! A lot has happened since I last posted: Brannon turned 6 and started 1st grade; Jessi turned 4 and she and Grace started Pre-K; lots of times at the beach; DISNEY, Gracie growing much too fast; friends; family - well, you will see all the pics! Enjoy!

KIDS BEING GOOFY!

2007-04-12T12:32:00.000-07:00

Here are just some pics of the kids over the past few months. They are growing sooo fast!!!

Grandma & Grandpa's Visit - Feb. 2007

2007-04-12T12:11:00.000-07:00

Grandma & Grandpa came to visit in February and were here for Gracie's birthday. The kids had a blast, especially when we went to the Florida Acquarium!

Grace is Two!

2007-04-12T05:54:00.000-07:00

Grace turned 2 years old on February 2, 2007. As of December, she was with us for a year, but it seems like she has ALWAYS been with us. She has definitely moved into our lives and our hearts like I could never have imagined! I am not saying she isn't a "challenge" at times - she now calls me "meanie mommy" when she doesn't get her way, and she can give some really "mean" looks herself. She just had her 2-year appointment with the pediatrician and she is in perfect health. The dr. pointed out how extremely limber she is by showing me some things she can do that amazed me! He also indicated that she is a "very confident little girl isn't she?" as she showed off all of her little gymnastic stunts she can do!

2007-04-09T06:47:00.000-07:00

EASTER 2007