Boys just wanna have fun

Epiphanie!

2010-03-01T20:50:00.001-08:00

Visit Epiphanie to enter to win a Canon 5D Mark 11!

Drawing!

2009-12-10T12:14:00.000-08:00

win your very own HP TouchSmart 600!!!!!!

Click here to go visit McMama for details as to how to enter the drawing!

Walker is 5!!

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Daddy

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Kiddos

2009-05-17T19:31:00.000-07:00

Newborn/family session

2009-05-07T15:17:00.000-07:00

http://raganhousholderoswalt.wordpress.com/2008/11/13/28/

What else...but more PICTURES!!

2009-04-23T20:47:00.000-07:00

Like always, if you would like to see more, click on the link to my photoblog on the sidebar!

New pics!

2009-04-08T08:16:00.001-07:00

Check out just a little teaser from a wedding I shot a few weekends ago!

All about mom: Through the eyes of Walker

2009-03-23T20:03:00.001-07:00

1. What is something mom always says to you?
"I love you little scrunchous munchous" (funny)

2. What makes mom happy?
"me being cute" (LOL!)

3. What makes mom sad?
"when we do ugly stuff"

4. How does your mom make you laugh?
"Boo!!" (Haha)

5. What was your mom like as a child?
"playing with flowers and doing other girly things"

6. How old is your mom?
"fifteen hundred eighty"

7. How tall is your mom?
"5 inches"

8. What is her favorite thing to do?
"work; get strong and healthy" (What?!?)

9. What does your mom do when you're not around?
"Makes monkey cakes, washes dishes, clean up toys, and vaccumes"

10. What is your mom really good at?
"Pictionary" (Umm...?)

11. What does your mom do for a job?
"Cleaning up the dishes and the kitchen"

12.What is your mom's favorite food?
"Chocolate"

13. If your mom were a cartoon character, who would she be?
"Clifford" (Thanks, Walker, I'm a big red dog! :)

14. What do you and your mom do together?
"Make crafts and eat cookie dough"

15. How are you and your mom the same?
"Because God made us the same"

16. How do you know your mom loves you?
"Because I'm cute and sometimes even handsome, and she scratches my back" (okay, it's looking like he's a little vain)

17. What does your mom like most about your dad?
"His face" (so sweet)

18. Where is your mom's favorite place to go?
"Target" (he hit the nail on the head on that one!!)

3

2009-03-11T11:46:00.001-07:00

Another year has gone by....unbelievable.

I just hope one day he will understand how much we love him and how much his precious little life is a blessing to us!
Love you, little man!

*Birthday montage to come to the most precious little song that you've ever heard. I'm running a little behind these days ;)

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T09:29:00.001-08:00

More of little J

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More on my photoblog. (click on the link on sidebar if interested)

LIttle "J"

2009-01-27T07:44:00.000-08:00

If you are interested in seeing more of this little cutie, click on the link on my sidebar.

Engagement pictures

2009-01-13T12:59:00.000-08:00

I have some new pictures up on my photoblog. This is an engagement session I did for a couple while in Memphis over Christmas. Click on my photoblog on the side bar if you are interested in taking a look!!

Slow down, please!

2009-01-13T08:59:00.001-08:00

Lately, Will has seemed so grown up to me. So much like a big boy!
He's still just as cute as a big boy as he was when he still seemed like a baby, but I miss that baby!
I know it's going to be even more amazing how big he seems when his sister arrives in a few weeks.

Here's the evidence:

Christmas in Memphis

2009-01-07T07:39:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas (at home) in pictures...

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First looks
Getting ready to open their stockings!

The nerf guns were definitely the hit!

Mmmm....egg nog!

'Tis the Season....

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....for reading books with your best friend that happens to be your brother ;-)

Baby, it's cold outside...

2008-12-04T20:48:00.001-08:00

"Elfed" again...

2008-12-02T10:11:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

post signature

It's BACK!!!

2008-12-02T09:03:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

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I'm it!

2008-11-11T15:13:00.001-08:00

I was tagged by my friend, Jessica. This is my first time to be tagged.....I'm excited!

Okay, here are the rules:

1. Choose the 4th picture folder on my computer

2. Choose the 4th picture

3. Explain the picture

4. Tag 4 people to do the same

*Disclaimer* Obviously, my computer orders my folders weirdly. What happened was when I got my new camera back in January, my computer started putting those folders first. Anyways...

This is one of the first times that I took pictures with my new camera (like I mentioned) back in January. I took the boys outside to play so I could play ;-) I remember Will was too busy to model(as usual)because he was preoccupied with his playing. When I said his name he turned around and looked at me as I snapped. This is what I got. I absolutely adore this picture because it captures his boyhood, even babyhood, so perfectly. This is sooo Will. Always into something and it often is dirt. I love it because he hasn't lost his baby look yet and is just perfectly adorable, dirt and all!

There are no words to describe how much I love my beautiful little boy!

I tag Jennifer, Emily Hutton, Lacey, and Lisa.
Who knows who still reads this, but we shall see!

First two Christmas card sessions~ Bush and Cottle kids

2008-11-10T07:47:00.000-08:00

If you want to see more, click on the link to my photoblog located on the side bar.

Christmas card pictures, anyone?

2008-11-04T21:44:00.000-08:00

Most of you blog readers will be getting one of these in the mail! Aren't you excited ;-)

New pics!

2008-10-30T13:04:00.005-07:00

Click on my photoblog on the side bar to see some new pics!

**A lot of Christmas card session pics to come!**

Fair!

2008-10-12T19:39:00.001-07:00

Chandler and I decided to take the boys to the fair last week during the free admission/parking time slot. We thought it would get us out of there for a lot cheaper, and I guess it did, but it still ended up costing a pretty penny. Seriously, how much do you think the fair brings in every year? Such a racket, but soooo much fun! By the time we ended up letting the boys play two games a piece, food (including a NINE dollar box of taffy that Chandler cradled oh so tenderly in his arms like it was his newest baby) and a few rides, I felt like we forfeited our grocery money for the next week. You can't put a price on the looks of happiness on these faces, though...
Click to enlarge the collage

BOY oh BOY.........................

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It's a GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Little Rascal

2008-09-27T14:52:00.000-07:00

I accidentally left the light on in Will's room when I put him down for a nap yesterday. Luckily, he had fallen on to sleep by the time I noticed it. I thought he was such a sweet little angel until my eyes followed down to the end of his bed............and found this! I guess since the light was on, he took it upon himself to catch up on some reading material ;-)

A four year old's musings on God

2008-09-24T19:14:00.001-07:00

Chandler spanked Walker tonight for arguing. Chandler went on to explain to him that he didn't like to spank him, but God commands (tells) him to spank his children when they disobey. Here are some of the questions that stemmed from their little conversation.

W: How does God tell you to spank me when I disobey?
C: It's in the Bible, God's word.
W:How did it get it in the Bible?
C: God told some special people what to write in it a long long time ago.
W:Where is God now?
C: Up in heaven
W: In the clouds?
C: (stumbling) Well, yeah, way up there
W: Did he fly up there?
C: Umm...no...
W: Did he drive?
C: No. He's God and he can do whatever he wants. He's everywhere and he can see and listen to you, Lunden, and GiGi Pops all at the same time...
W: Does he have three heads?
C: No, he's God. He's everywhere at once.
W: Does he stretch?

Memphis

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The faces that make my heart melt....

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Dove hunt

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Olympic fever?

2008-08-20T10:59:00.001-07:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Where did the time go?

2008-08-10T20:07:00.000-07:00

Friday was Walker's first day of school! I know it sounds cliche, but it really seems like just yesterday, that I had two babies at home to take care of. What a switch from what I saw the other day; a beyond excited big boy grinning from ear to ear when it was time to put his backpack on. The backpack that he is wearing was Chandler's first backpack when he went to Kindergarten. I'm so thankful that his mom kept all of these important things so my boys can enjoy them too. It doesn't even matter that Walker has no idea who Gizmo is (from the Gremlins), but he just loves that backpack because it's the one his daddy wore and he wants to be "just like daddy!" I'm just so proud of my big boy. He has grown into such a tender hearted, vivacious, friendly, and smiley little boy. We feel so blessed that God has given him to us. What a precious gift he is!

Here are some pictures before we left for his school on Friday.

Can you tell he's just a little excited?

Someone from the school took pictures while they were in class on Friday. Click here if you want to see those..

New pics!

2008-08-08T13:55:00.000-07:00

Check out the latest pics of the Cottle and Kopf kids. Click on my photoblog in the side bar to take a look!

How in the world do they manage to get THIS dirty!?!

2008-07-18T13:21:00.000-07:00

Ewww!

Just thought you should know....

2008-07-16T17:27:00.001-07:00

Wimbledon hopeful

2008-07-09T10:38:00.001-07:00

I hate to break it to ya, little man, but you're not going to make it to the pros by stuffing in all those powdered donuts!

Some sparklers and two little firecrackers!

2008-07-06T20:16:00.000-07:00

We had a fun-filled fourth of July weekend. It started off with going to some friends' lakehouse on the 4th. We grilled out, rode on the boat, shot some fireworks, and finished the night off with a friendly game of Phase 10 (which I won, but who's keeping track ;). If you've never played this card game, then you MUST try it. It's sooo fun! I'm hooked and that was only my second time to play it.

Saturday night we had some friends over to our house and cooked out again. The kids enjoyed some watermelon and ice cream b/c we didn't think they were quite dirty enough. I went to see if a firework would happen to still be open, but it was too late, and much to Walker's shagrin, had already closed down.

Finally, we finished off the weekend with having some family over tonight to finish grilling the left over food that somehow remained after our little grilling rampage. I don't know if I will ever eat again.

Now, the boys are tucked in their beds, all clean and shiney after a good scrub down, my kitchen is sparkling, and I'm about ready to call it a night after a busy 4th weekend, I'll leave you with some pictures...

Notice Will's shirt. #1 example of how filthy my children were this weekend.

Did I mention how FILTHY they got?.......example #2 ;-) Gross!

"Cheeeeese!"

He will be getting a hair cut this week. Just wanted to document how much hair this little boy has. The sheer amount is actually quite amazing!
Nice, Chandler. Please, can you get the snake a little closer to our first born's head next time!

Hope you all had a wonderful 4th of July!

Spider (man) party!

2008-07-02T21:55:00.001-07:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Birthday boy

2008-06-29T22:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to the cutest, smartest, most precious BIG 4 year old I know!!!!
Love you, Bud!

I just can't believe he went from this at two years.......To this at four!!!

...Birthday montage and party pictures to come....

More new pics

2008-06-20T14:50:00.000-07:00

Click on my photoblog in the sidebar to see the cute little Fairley boys!

Old News

2008-06-19T11:59:00.000-07:00

So, a couple of weeks ago, they were having a De-Mystifying Mississppi Snakes exhibit at the Jackson Museum of Natural Science and Chandler really wanted to take the boys. He took Walker last year and they had a blast. This year he wanted to make it a family event. It was so cute to see the boys following around their daddy eagerly anticipating what he would show them next. It was a very well done exhibit. They had a dinosaur room (they were remarkably real looking), snakes, alligators, aquariums....you name it, they had it! They even let you pet and hold the snakes. Of course, Walker was jumping in line to have his chance. A photographer from the online Jackson newspaper, the Clarion Ledger, saw Walker with the snake around his neck and got his picture and it was in the newspaper!

Anyways, I think that country song by Rodney Atkins, "Watching you" is the cheesiest song EVER, but I couldn't keep it from playing over and over in my mind the whole time we were there. So, I thought it would be fitting to do a montage to it. I guess this could be a late Father's Day tribute to one amazing daddy!

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

New pics!

2008-06-17T22:26:00.000-07:00

Caleb and Carey asked me to come all the way over to Monroe a couple of weekends ago to take some groomsmen and reception pictures.

Click on the photoblog in the side bar to see a small sample of what I got!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-06-04T13:06:00.001-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

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Photo Friday

2008-05-23T08:09:00.002-07:00

Thank the Lord...

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...that this didn't bite any of the humans in my house!!!!
But, poor Waylon!
I love you, Waylon, but I would rather it bite you than one of the boys ;)
Thanks for being such a good guard dog and sniffing and barking it out! By the way, Waylon is fine now; one puffed up eye later ;)

Copperheads really are beautiful. But, I happen to think they would look even more beautiful far, far away from my house!
Look at those fangs!!!
I never thought I'd see the day. The day Walker was actually scared of an animal. I'm so glad that he is, though!

The littlest things...

2008-05-18T20:26:00.000-07:00

...Make him sooo happy!!!

The boys have been begging for one of those little baby pools, so I finally got around to picking one up for them on Saturday. Well, Chandler actually picked it up...he's got the truck. Unfortunately, Will was taking a nap during its breaking in. When he saw me editing the pictures of Walker playing in it, I think he felt a little betrayed. He just stared at the computer with this confused look on his face and then looked up with me those big 'ole eyes of his and said, "Walker in da pool?...where Will go? Will whim (swim) in da pool too!" It was pretty pitiful. I told him that we would play it in it tomorrow too. With a poked out lip and a deep breath to keep from crying, he reluctantly agreed ;)

Walker was so funny playing in that pool. You would have thought that we moved one of those huge water parks in our backyard the way he was acting and by the size of the smile on his face. I don't think it will ever cease to amaze me how such simple, seemingly small things bring the boys so much joy. I need to learn a lesson from them.

Photo Friday

2008-05-16T13:53:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2008-05-14T09:20:00.001-07:00

Too cute Tuesday

2008-05-13T09:44:00.001-07:00

I can hardly think of anything cuter than two freshly bathed little boys in their pajamas, smelling as sweet as they look!

Shout out

2008-05-12T06:22:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to let all my blog readers know about a FREE BABY SLING giveaway, designed and created by Wondergirl. These things are CA-YUTE (not to mention practical), y'all! One of her friends is giving one away for FREE! Isn't that a beautiful word? It has such a ring to it, don't you think? So, hop on over to this really cute blog, Musings of a housewife and leave a comment today. She will pick the winner around noon tomorrow! While you are there, you should do some reading. Her blog is AWESOME!

I'm totally doing it and you should too!

Okay, I expect to see that fizzy, perfectly chilled coke, Wondergirl ;)

Blessed

2008-05-10T21:02:00.000-07:00

There is no doubt that we are truly blessed to have such an amazing mother and grandmother.
Happy Mother's Day, momma! We love you!

"I thank my God every time I remember you."
Philippians 1:3

Have you ever wondered what Spiderman would look like if he were a frat boy?

2008-05-09T10:20:00.001-07:00

Well, here ya' go!

Have a great weekend, everyone!

Just because.....

2008-05-06T13:51:00.001-07:00

My mom and Walker (16 months)
Will totally does this same face!

Boys~ Spring '08

2008-04-28T20:05:00.000-07:00

I haven't done a montage in a while, so I thought I might whip up one of some spring shots of the boys. I love Spring and all the outdoor time it brings for the boys!

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

I wonder what he did this time?

2008-04-24T14:43:00.001-07:00

Will's hair + humidity =

2008-04-22T11:39:00.000-07:00

Try to ignore the redneck wife-beater...I'm just a little behind on laundry!

New pics!

2008-04-15T11:47:00.000-07:00

I'm taking a photography class and we took a little field trip the other day to this cool old barn in Madison. Jessica just happened to bring Sydney and Morgan that day to give Sydney a chance to play. I'm so glad she did. They were a lot more interesting to my camera than the "models" that were provided!
Click on the link to my photoblog on the side bar if you want to take a look at some of my favorites!

"They say it's your birthday...."

2008-04-14T14:16:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday, GiGi! We love you and miss you!
Wish we could be with you to celebrate!

~ Walker and Will

Got dirt?

2008-04-13T10:12:00.001-07:00

Thank goodness for beautiful weather and a little bit of dirt!

Breaking in their new buckets and shovels. Have I ever mentioned how much I LOVE Target!?!
This digging stuff is serious business

I have the most precious son, and.....the MOST EVIL husband!

2008-04-10T20:11:00.000-07:00

He's the sweetest...

Just some boys and their toys...

2008-04-09T17:38:00.000-07:00

Look who's playing baseball, y'all! (note Chandler's face after he made contact ;-)
Chandler was so proud of his little slugger, and Walker was quite pleased with himself!
He was actually pretty good
.....and then he found a frog.......and a baby turtle, so...
it was Will's turn..

watching daddy put gas in the lawn mower
very fascinating stuff

New pics!

2008-04-07T09:18:00.000-07:00

I'm finally done with the second session that I did over the Easter holidays.Talk about excellent turn around time...ha! It has just been crazy over here with sick boys. Anyways, this one was with Kate Chapman. Click here to take a look.

*I think I'm going to put a link up on the sidebar to my photoblog, so I won't have to say "click here" everytime*

Too cute Tuesday

2008-04-01T11:50:00.001-07:00

Showing off his new pajamas. Look out Target, Wal-mart's really moving up in the world!

This is Walker's new look of choice (below) when the camera is around. I'm sure this face will appear in many pictures to come.
Will has discovered his pockets. He walks around like this all the time!

New pics!

2008-03-31T14:30:00.000-07:00

I did a couple of photo sessions over Easter, and I'm finally done editing the first of them. I'll be posting the other session soon too.
But for now, if you're interested, check out my photoblog and take a look!
Click here.

Easter weekend

2008-03-25T19:43:00.000-07:00

So, I'm fully aware that Easter is soooo 3 days ago, and y'all are probably sick and tired of looking at everyone's pictures of Easter egg hunts and all, but since I took all of these of the weekend festivities, I just had to share.

I've been wanting to use this song in a montage ever since I first saw it on the Mac commercial. It's so bright and cheery... it just fits so well with Easter. Especially the first of these pictures since the boys were dressed in pastel Easter egg colors ;-)

BTW, the real pictures are not pixel-y like it shows. I've been meaning to say that for a while now. Just so you know ;-)

Enjoy~

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Photo blog

2008-03-24T18:10:00.000-07:00

There will be the promised montage soon of all the festivities of Easter and Easter weekend, but in the mean time, check out some of my favorite Easter pics of the boys in their Easter outfits here!

Happy (a day late) Easter!

2008-03-23T22:35:00.001-07:00

Hope you all had a wonderful Easter!!

*An Easter pic montage to come.....

Party pics!

2008-03-17T12:23:00.001-07:00

Will had his birthday party the Saturday before his actual birthday. It was a "boot" theme. All the guests wore their favorite pair of boots. Considering the theme, guess what song I just couldn't resist using for the montage...... At least I spared you Jessica Simpson's version.

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Chick-fil-A...everyone's number one choice!

2008-03-12T10:47:00.000-07:00

I asked Will where he wanted to go for his birthday dinner and Chick-fil-A was his choice. This word is definitely in his vocabulary being that he loves it so much. I mean, who wouldn't? It's got everything you could want; chicken, fries, toys, ice cream, and the main attraction....the oh so germ-free playground. That thing is disgusting and I cringe everytime I let my boys play in it, but I have to just get over it and pray they don't pick up some rare Chick-fil-A disease. It's worth it to see the looks on their faces marveling in all of the filth. We always scrub down with those complimentary anti-bacterial wipes afterwards. Hey, at least they're aware of its filth.

Anxiously awaiting Will's birthday dinner...
Playing in filth....Such a little monkey..
And afterwards we went to Wal-mart to let Will pick out his birthday present. I let them ride the train there since they ask to every week, and I never let them. I figured a little more germs couldn't do too much more damage ;-)

Will had his pick of riding toys, bikes and other big ticket items and this is what he chose....
This is the face of one happy and contented little boy on his birthday! Always smiling...such a joy! I love this little guy to pieces!

Birthday boy!

2008-03-11T21:16:00.000-07:00

I'm really in shock that my baby is two today. God has blessed us beyond any highest expectation with our boys. I could go on and on about Will and how much of a joy and incredible little boy he is, but I won't. :-)
I'll just say, I love you so much and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

Here's a little montage (VERY condensed) of his first two years...

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

"Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him." Psalm 127:3

Introducing......

2008-03-07T13:08:00.000-08:00

James Conner Miller
(Conner)

9 lbs 8 ounces, 201/2 inches.

I'm so excited about my new nephew!!!!! Congrats Bethany, Jon, and Laney!
Pictures of the new little guy to come.....

Lookin' Good!

2008-03-06T20:07:00.001-08:00

Chandler and Walker FINALLY got hair cuts. Hallelujah! Such me and mini-me cuties!I think Chandler had his hat on up until seconds before this pic was taken. So, excuse the hat hair. It's amazing the difference some sizzors can make. Really. I wish I had a before photo of these two. Let's just say they were looking a little rugged ;-)Will was very jealous that his daddy was taking a picture with his brother and not him and that he was not invited to join. He kept on saying, "Will say cheese...daddy and Will" It was really cute, so I had to give in ;-) There's no doubt that this little boy loves his daddy and his "Kalkur".

So, take a wild guess who is next in line for a hair-cut? I'll give you a hint: the one whose big ole' eyes are desperately trying to peer through a whole lot of blond hair ;-)

Walkerisms: Part Sept

2008-03-02T18:20:00.000-08:00

Walker: "Momma, will you put this back together for me?" (referring to some toy)
Me: (trying to figure it out, but finally giving up) "I don't know how to do it"
Walker: "No big deal! Maybe when you grow bigger like daddy you'll know how to do things!"
Me: (laughing...)
Walker: "Well, you don't have to be silly about it!"

Walker: (going in with me to get Will up from a nap) "Come on, buddy (in his high, baby voice) I have lots of special toys for you. There's plenty of them. It's a surprise!"
Walker: (as Will is sitting down in the den) Go ahead and sit down on your bottom. Look at all these toys I have for you. (very excitedly) It's your very special day!!"

(On the way to church last Sunday...)
Walker: I just really love Papa's church!"
Walker (A few minutes later) : "I just love my Papa!"
Me: "Yeah, Papa's pretty cool."
Walker: "Well, no, only Buzz Light Year is cool!"

Walker: (Pretending to read) "Keep out of the reach of children"
Walker: (Bending down to Will's level) "That means you can't touch it, buddy."

Walker: (in the car) "Momma, do you remember that bird...it's got blue and red and yellow feathers?"
Me: "I'm not sure which bird your talking about"
Walker: "You don't know? Well, it's called a Scarlet Macaw; I really like those birds!"

Walker: (again, in the car... quoting Buzz light year from Toy Story)
Me: "Who says that?"
Walker: "Buzz Light Year!"
Me: "Well, what does Woody say?"
Walker: "Shut-up and stupid"
Me: (trying with all my power not to laugh)
Walker: "Those are not very good words to say. Woody's momma' needs to give him a spanking!"

Oh, I've got more...he just doesn't stop! I'm saving them for the next Walkerisms.

I'd be

2008-02-29T14:03:00.000-08:00

If I were a shoe, I'd be a flip-flop.
If I were a city, I'd be Paris.
If I were a season, I'd be Fall.
If I were a car, I’d be a Lexus (smooth as butta')
If I were a vegetable, I’d be a mushroom.
If I were a fruit, I’d be a strawberry.
If I were a color, I’d be hot pink.
If I were furniture, I’d be a rocking chair.
If I were a country, I’d be Austria.
If I were a beverage, I'd be a margarita.
If I were clothing, I'd be a sun dress.
If I were weather, I'd be raining
If I were a dessert, I’d be cheesecake.
If I were a plant, I’d be an oak tree.

I've heard people say that no one reads posts without pictures, so here's one just in case ;-)
(Walker must be telling him something really good!)

Guess who's having a birthday soon....

2008-02-26T20:57:00.001-08:00

Yep, you guessed it. My baby is turning 2 in like two weeks! I can't believe it. I might just cry. Birthday party plans are coming very slowly but surely. I just got out the invitations today, so that's one "check" down! The cake is next on the agenda. Any suggestions for good cake places in the Jackson area? Jess?
Not too far into the rest of the party planning. This happened last year around his birthday. It just kind of crept up on me. So, any suggestions for a "boot" themed 2 year old's birthday party are welcome!!! PLEASE!
Guess what else happens in about two weeks?(March 7th, to be exact) I'll have a new nephew!!!!This will be Bethany's second and will rock little princess Laney's world ;-) No, I bet she'll be a great big sister. I mean, she can already speak 3 different languages, so compared to that, the big sis thing will be a breeze! I can't wait to see his precious little face and also find out what his name will be!!

Paige

2008-02-21T10:34:00.000-08:00

If you're interested in seeing some new pictures, then click here to see Paige in downtown Memphis on my photo blog.
Hope you enjoy!

Just because.....

2008-02-10T18:21:00.000-08:00

Gorgeous day!

2008-02-05T13:32:00.000-08:00

Saturday was beautiful here for the first time in really a couple of weeks! I took advantage of the weather, and let the kids get out some pent up energy. So, we met our friends, the Durhams, at the park.
When we were thinking of moving from Monroe, I was really torn at leaving not only all of our wonderful friends, but all of the many awesome little friends that the boys had made there. I feel so blessed that God has moved us to a place where the boys haven't missed a beat. I really thought that there would never be a place that has as many sweet little children as Auburn Avenue. Then we meet Immanuel. What a blessing that God has provided for us....children and wonderful families everywhere! I didn't know this kind of volume of kids existed anywhere else. We miss all of you in Monroe more than you know, but are so relieved at the amazing church home that the Lord has provided for us here!
Anyways, the Durhams oldest girl, Lily, is particularly special in Walker's eyes. I don't exactly know why, but the from the first time they met, they have just been drawn to one another. Walker talks about "Luly" non-stop, and they can't spend enough time together. He even kind of "throws" his voice down low a little when he talks to her. It's really cute. We've joked about going ahead and arranging their marriage. Hey, at least if it does happen I'll have plenty of "way back when" pictures for their wedding slideshow!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Now this is crafty cute!

2008-01-30T21:41:00.001-08:00

This picture cracks me up. They're really trying to be cooperative....

A picture evident of the use of natural light....love it!
...."You're covering your shirt!!"

Crafty Cute!

2008-01-30T09:11:00.001-08:00

Jessica had this great idea to make T-shirts with the kids' names on them, the letters being made out of cute fabric. I'm so glad she wanted to "craft" this because I had seen these cute little T-shirts in the shops(and thought they were the cutest things), but didn't want to pay the obscene amount that they go for. Luckily, Jessica had scraps left over of this adorable cowboy fabric and she said I could use it for the boys' shirts. So, I did. If you remember correctly, this is the second craft night that we've had, the first one we made the shadowboxes. If your memory fails you, click here.
I definitely am interested in making this a reoccurring event. It's so much fun, and I find it a bit therapeutic. Not to mention, the end results are cute ...you have something to show for your time and work.
Our friend, Shelley, came over too (she was working on her own - sashes for wedding pews- project) We had so much fun rockin' out to Notorious B.I.G and just a- crafting away! It's always serious business, these craft nights are, and Jessica is really good at keeping my A.D.D self on track.
I can't wait to see what she thinks of next. Maybe next time, I can come up with a fabulous idea for a change :-)
So, I'm thinking it would be cute to pair these with black or green long sleeved T-shirts underneath and jeans and boots. Jessica made a T-shirt dress for Sydney. It turned out sooo cute. Y'all should check it out here.
Well, here are some pictures of the finished products:

Baby Bonnie

2008-01-28T08:35:00.000-08:00

I had a session with little Bonnie on Saturday. She was so sweet and cooperative the entire shoot. I was able to grab a few of her older sisters, Lily and Junie too, even though they definitely made me work for them ;-) If you're interested in taking a look at some of the pictures, you can see them here.

Warning: Some may be bored with content

2008-01-24T21:56:00.000-08:00

I got in my newest little camera accessory in the mail today. It's called The Puffer. It was designed for cameras with pop up flashes. It diffuses the light from the flash to create a softer picture quality. The flash on cameras is contained in such a small area that the light that is projected through it is very harsh(because it's so concentrated). A good way to think of the flash is like a flashlight shown directly on the person/image you are shooting. With the Puffer, it diffuses the light through a bigger surface area which creates a softer effect. The difference is rather slight, but really makes a difference in the skin tone(and overall) quality of the photograph. I'm so happy to know of something that can counteract some very common lighting issues. I think I'm starting to sound like an advertisement for the product. But, I promise, I'm not selling them ;-) Chandler, however, has added this to his "things that I should've thought of because I could've made millions" list after seeing it's very simple design (basically a piece of plastic with bumps on it) But, he didn't think of it. And it is brilliant!
Also, there is a product called a lightsphere (by this same designer)that does the same type thing for external flashes. I would love to have one of those after I get an external flash for my camera. Here's a before and after picture to show the difference.

Without the Puffer:
With the Puffer:
I apologize that you have to see my face. That's actually 2 posts very close together where I've posted pictures of myself. Sorry to subject you to that. The boys were asleep when I started playing with it. I guess I should've waited until they got up to get some cute pictures. Oh well, you get the idea. Isn't there such a difference? Thank you Jessica for the information! I'm so excited about this little thing. I just needed someone to tell. Sorry if this is boring subject matter to some, but I did warn you ;-)

Photo update: A deer and a dog

2008-01-24T14:41:00.001-08:00

Walker was just a little excited
Chandler spotlighted Will with his blood light

He LOVES to look at himself in the mirror.
He's a little vain. But, how do you remedy that?

I'm FINALLY legal!

2008-01-22T12:22:00.000-08:00

So, I went to get a valid, MS drivers license the other day. That sure is a long way from the 2 year expired, maiden name, 9 year old picture, TN drivers license that I had. However, I had to retake the written part of the drivers test b/c my license was so out-of-date. Let me just say, that I would have most definitely failed the thing if I hadn't read the manual the night before. Seriously. I mean, would you have known how many feet away another car should be able to hear your horn? Or how many days your drivers license is revoked if you refuse a breathalyser test? It asked questions like that. Not whether or not you have to wear your seatbelt or which side of the road should you drive on. I'm just really glad I was spared the embarrassment of failing.... unike the girl taking the test beside me ;-)

The camera's first pictures

2008-01-18T22:55:00.000-08:00

So, I played with my new camera the other day. It was so much fun!!!!!
I decided to use the cutest subjects I knew, which was very convenient since they happened to live in my very house ;-)
Click here to see some of my favorite shots on my photoblog.

She's finally here!

2008-01-15T14:05:00.000-08:00

She was delivered this afternoon at 5:28 P.M. She weighed in at a rather small, one pound, 3 ounces, and was 9 i/2 inches long.
I know she's small, but she's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen (besides my boys, of course) How I have dreamed and saved for you for so long, anxiously awaiting your arrival.
Scroll down to see her first pictures!

Oh the fun and great pictures we will have! (once I get you out of your box, that is ;-)

***EDIT- First test run down, and pictures to come. This camera ROCKS!!! I looooove it!

Oswalt Look-alike Meter

2008-01-10T08:26:00.001-08:00

MyHeritage: Family trees - Genealogy - Celebrities - Collage - Morph

Walker' turn

2008-01-10T08:21:00.000-08:00

MyHeritage: Celebrity Collage - Ancestors

Just because.....

2008-01-09T07:52:00.000-08:00

Chandler and I happened to be looking through some old photos of the boys last night(amazed at how much they've totally changed) and stumbled across this picture. We couldn't stop laughing. So, I thought I'd share. This is Laney (my neice, the sucker) and Will (the suckee) when they were about 5 and 7 months old. I love the expression on Will's face. He's like, yeah, I'm totally cool with this!

Knox

2008-01-08T12:15:00.000-08:00

I just had to blog about this little boy.
I got a comment on my "Better late than never" post from a friend from college, Robin (It was so good to hear from you, Robin!!). I was reading her blog and came across a link to my assistant pastors' (at Mississippi State) family's blog, The Andersons. They have four children and their youngest boy, Knox was in a tragic accident (at almost 18 months) and went Home as a result. As I read his blog, I found myself uncontrollably sobbing and weeping. I didn't know I could ever cry or be so distraught over someone I hadn't ever even met! I don't know if it's b/c Knox reminded me of my own boys (b/c of his blond hair) in some small way or what.
I can't even imagine something like this happening to one of my own. It's one of those things that I can't even begin to wrap my mind around. My heart physically aches for this family. To see pictures and to read memories of their precious little boy, really moved me. I just couldn't resist the urge to share this family and their story with you all. Please take some time to read Knox's blog and join me in prayer for this family as they seek God's help to heal and cope from this loss.
It really put things in perspective for me. I feel like God has revealed a sin of mine of taking his most precious blessings for granted. I began to feel so convicted of impatience in dealing with my boys. I get so caught up in the trivial things in my life, and sometimes loose sight of the most precious things right under my own nose. It is a good reminder to all of us with children to continuously thank God for the precious children he has given us. My prayer is that God will protect and shield each and every one of our children. I hope that the next time I feel impatient or get caught up in everything going on, that I will stop and remember little Knox and how much of a blessing he was and his memory is to the Anderson family.
I've always loved the name Knox and the meaning behind it, but now it takes on a whole new meaning for me and makes me love it all the more.

Ah....Paris, my home away from home

2008-01-08T08:01:00.000-08:00

You Belong in Paris

You enjoy all that life has to offer, and you can appreciate the fine tastes and sites of Paris.
You're the perfect person to wander the streets of Paris aimlessly, enjoying architecture and a crepe.

What European City Do You Belong In?

3 going on 10

2008-01-06T17:58:00.000-08:00

I think Walker decides to grow up a couple of years each Sunday. This seems to be his day of choice. Every Sunday after I get him dressed, I find myself just sitting back and looking at him in amazement. He always looks soooo big and grown up. I'm sure the "little man" clothes add to it, but I just can't believe how he is growing up right before my eyes. I just want to make sure I remember these moments forever. So, I documented the moment how I like best...with some pictures.
Look at those hands in his pockets. He loves this "stance".
Will jumped in the picture. He only does this when I don't invite him to.He wanted to wear his new wallet in his back pocket and put money in the offering plate like daddy. It made his day when Chandler gave him an old credit card to put in it.So big!

Resolutions

2008-01-05T11:21:00.000-08:00

Does anyone ever actually keep their New Year's Resolutions? Oh well, it can't hurt to make a list and at least give it a go. So here's mine for '08:

1. Loose weight/get in shape; those tennis lessons should help, right Jess? (Isn't this everyone's number one resolution every year?...I know it's been at the top of my list for the 4th year in a row!)

2. Stop biting/picking at my fingers (a terrible/ADD habit as long as I can remember; I think since I was like 4!!) I LOATHE this habit!!!

3. Designate a certain time and curriculum for the boys' "school" everyday
(As opposed to teaching them on a non-schedule and no set "things" to work on)

4. Fix up the house (paint, floors, etc.) I went ahead and included this one anyways even though this is something we are going to have to do, it's not an option.....This is one "resolution" that I am soooo excited about!

5. Maintain a more clean, straight, and organized home (Please, someone tell me how to accomplish this when I feel like I'm always either cleaning, organizing something, or picking up toys and things)

There are so many more that I could add to this list, but I'll just go with these five for now. Okay, so here it is, out there for the whole bloggie world to see. This is accountability, people. I mean it, next time you see me trying to sneak a brownie, break my beautifully manicured hand!!!!!

Kinda fun!

2008-01-04T10:19:00.000-08:00

Here's what my pics would look like with a professional looking logo on them. I liiiiiiike it! Now all I need is the professional camera. Still impatiently waiting.... ;-)
So, I need a vote, which of these two fonts do you like best? Does it look better dimmer or more bold?
Thanks for the tip, Jen!

Better late than never

2008-01-03T15:35:00.000-08:00

I know that both Christmas and New Year's have come and gone and I haven't even posted a single picture to show for it. Well, I'm about to make up for it, I promise!
We had an extremely busy, crazy, but soooo exciting holiday! It seriously makes me physically tired to think about writing out all we did in the last two weeks, so I'm not gonna. But we were in Memphis, here in Clinton, and then Monroe for New Year's. All of it was such a blast spending so much quality time with friends and family. I don't quite know how I am going to recuperate from the lack of sleep through it all, but I am so thankful for every minute of the fun. I hope our family and friends know how much we love them and are so blessed to have them in our lives.
There are a lot of pictures in this montage, but they are taken over a week and a half time span. If you're wondering how the boys' enjoyed their Christmas, I think the montage will speak for itself!
Enjoy!

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Merry Christmas

2007-12-27T15:02:00.001-08:00

Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas with your families....I know we did!

*Update and montage of all our Christmas festivities to come...... ;-)

Merry Christmas Eve!

2007-12-24T08:13:00.000-08:00

We wish you a very merry Christmas Eve! We love and miss you all!