Ain't Life Grand....

Happy 6 months Old, baby Kat!

2010-03-13T18:05:00.001-06:00

Happy time...

2010-03-07T13:19:00.000-06:00

Lil' Duckie!

Lil' sledders

2010-03-01T16:45:00.003-06:00

Ansley and Kate sledding at Stone Mountain!

i eat this face daily! :)

2010-02-26T20:53:00.001-06:00

...it's been a while

2010-02-09T07:28:00.003-06:00

I've taken a long hiatus from blogging. I wasn't sure if it was really for me. To be honest, I'm still uncertain. But since our life has changed since my last posting, I thought I'd give it another go. We'll see.

Soooooooooooooo, how is life different? Well, on the sunny side, we've added another beautiful daughter to our family! Kathryn was born 9/13/09 and she's such a delight. Ansley is in LOVE with her baby sister so we're very relieved!
On a very sad note, a few weeks prior to Kat's arrival, our beloved Goldie Ben decided it was time to leave our tight-knit family and pass on to be with HIS first brother Zak. Our hearts were broken but we felt that things happen for a reason and it must have been his time. It all happened so quickly that there was no time for questioning, decision-making, etc. It just happened. I'm sooooo thankful that the year before, Patricia (PVE Design) had captured sweet Ben with Cooper and Ansley on gorgeous notecards for us. The heart she puts into her artwork is unmatched. We miss you Ben -- dearly.

OK - on to happier topics! I hope this blog, which now will be more for Kathryn, Ansley & Cooper (our other Goldie) will have a little meaning, a lot of fluff to help take your mind off your own "goings on", and sometimes give you a good laugh! I mean, whose life with a toddler girl, infant and big dog doesn't have daily humor?

Happy Tuesday...

EAT MORE PIZZA!

2009-10-21T12:41:00.002-05:00

If you're in south walton, be sure to visit Pizza by the Sea and get a frequent luncher card!!

We love Pizza by the Sea!

"I waaaaant my GeeeVeeee!"

2009-08-03T15:49:00.003-05:00

That's what Ansley was yelling as her G.V. walked into the airport to fly back home this morning. We had a great time and can't wait until her next visit in 6 weeks (or sooner if this second baby decides to enter the world early!)
Here are some pics from the long weekend:

Waiting on GVs plane to arrive!

At Grayton Beach where GV and Ansley built sand castles!

Showing off her new Birkenstocks and baby doll...

Eating lunch at a new cafe in Seagrove.

4th of July Weekend

2009-07-06T10:52:00.005-05:00

It was a fun, hot and fast 3-day weekend! Here are some pics from the Seaside Parade, Grayton Beach and the Alys Beach amphitheater for local fav Cadillac Willy!

The past two weeks...

2009-07-02T14:10:00.003-05:00

...Ansley has been taking swim lessons from Coach Debbie. We ♥ ♥ ♥ Debbie!!!! If you're a sowal local (or Destin) and have been searching for a knowledgable, effective, kind, patient and generous swim teacher for your child, you definitely should call her. Ansley made more progress in 2 weeks than she has over the past two years with our previous teachers. Here are a few blackberry pics... sorry for the poor quality.

Another baby year...

2009-06-26T09:10:00.003-05:00

I think 2009 is proving to be another baby boom year. We have at least 8 sets of friends who have either already had or are expecting their second or third this year. In the past month, the Mintons and Rohners had their bundles of joy, Kendall and Davis respectively. Today should bring the arrival of baby Comer #4. Next month will bring Meredith Dwyer Hummel... and September will bring baby Mitchell #2, Emerson Lee Drown and baby Scheckter #2! And then.... December will bring baby Hudson-Burba!!

Here are some photos of Davis and Kendall.

Here's to hoping everyone has safe deliveries and healthy babies!

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

2009-06-21T09:46:00.002-05:00

Almost 3 years ago.... a great man became the GREATEST daddy!

last GA visit until the holidays...

2009-06-15T14:45:00.004-05:00

So, at 27 weeks pregnant, I decided that this past week would be my last trip to GA to visit family until the holidays. My swollen legs and feet just can't handle sitting in the car for long periods (not to mention the bladder issue). I can't believe it will be 6 months before I'm back. Fortunately, my Mom (Ansley's G.V.) will be down here in late July for a visit and again in early September for the birth of baby2! I can't express how much it meant having her here when Ansley was born almost 3 years ago.

Here are some pics from our visit:

Happy Memorial Day!

2009-05-25T12:25:00.000-05:00

Rainy Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-24T11:47:00.002-05:00

It's been raining here for two days complete with random power outages. This is what we resort to when we're stir crazy!

Superheroes

2009-05-16T22:09:00.004-05:00

Handsome Pelham celebrated his 3rd birthday today with a Superhero themed party!

War Eagle!

2009-05-16T07:05:00.004-05:00

Last night, a group of Auburn and Alabama fans convened for a 'friendly' game of flag football in support of the Seaside REP Theater. Knowing that the Alabama team had practiced twice before and had actual PLAYS lined up in advance, we weren't too optimistic for our chances....They even had purchased matching Tshirts! but.... WE WON! Great Job, Auburn Team!
(Lyn was already limping and complaining of a sore body last night. He's still sleeping now and I hope he's able to get out of bed today!)

bad blogger

2009-05-06T14:39:00.003-05:00

I've been such a blog slacker lately. I still READ my favs each day -- but I'm finding it more and more difficult to BE a blogger.

Anyway.... last weekend we went down to Clearwater to celebrate the 40th birthday of one of Lyn's closest friends, Jason. It was VERY relaxing!

I can't believe these guys turn 40 this year... age is definitely just a number! (or is 40 the new 30?)

Jason, Glenn & Lyn

View from our balcony at the Clearwater Beach Hilton.

Bridget & Jason at the SandPearl Resort (beautiful hotel) where we spent most of our time.

Spring Swimming

2009-04-23T10:21:00.001-05:00

Bunny Stalking

2009-04-13T12:23:00.009-05:00

Hope everyone had a nice Easter weekend. It was perfect here -- gorgeous weather, Ansley's GV was in town, and time with good friends! We began the weekend with a visit to Alys Beach for the Mad Hatter's Party. Anz performed her signature "I'm poopin'" routine at the top of the playhouse and poor Swaisie endured it like a champ -- even finding it pretty funny!?!

On Easter, we enjoyed a big brunch (including another episode of Ansley's "I'm poopin'" show for some random brunch goers who were trying to enjoy their meal. Fortunatley they laughed and didn't seem too bothered)...and then went to the annual Watercolor Easter Egg Hunt. Ansley became completely obsessed with the Easter Bunny and stalked her everywhere she went. I mean everywhere! Fortunately, her lack of any kind of fear whatsoever helped some other children overcome their fears! GO ANZ!

Craft time with Miss Keller!

2009-04-09T18:49:00.005-05:00

Lil' Miss Keller learned how to make these adorable edible nests in school and was nice enough to share the fun with Ansley! I think we're all on a major sugar high but it was worth it... so much fun! Thanks Keller (and momma Cathy!)

our lil' bug catcher

2009-04-01T17:01:00.004-05:00

Ansley got this cute bug catching kit as a party favor. She LOVES it! She finds imaginary butterflies and puts them in the box... she also uses the box like "nock-lars" (translation: binoculars). It's really come in handy since we've been pretty housebound lately. The rain is one reason but I've also been leary to get her out too much while she's recovering from bronchitis. Tomorrow marks a week on antibiotics and her cough sounds 100% better. One more week on that med and then an xray to verify the chest is clear. Let's hope her allergy meds and breathing treatments get her through spring and summer without any more issues!

If you gotta have more cowbell....

2009-03-29T10:34:00.001-05:00

Click here!

BFFs?

2009-03-24T08:26:00.002-05:00

Can 2 1/2 yr olds have best friends? Looks like it! :) We love these girlies!

Perfect Weather Weekend!

2009-03-21T12:54:00.008-05:00

I absolutely love this time of year here. Even though our favorite spots are crowded with spring breakers, it means there are endless opportunities for FUN...and you can't beat the weather -- mid 70s and sunny!
Friday night, Seaside held a Guitar Hero competition in the amphitheater and even though the girlies had been there playing since 4pm, they found the energy to stay for some of the show and support the contestants! (sorry for the photo quality...I was using my cell.)
Saturday, Watercolor hosted Art in the Park so we took a stroll through and listened to the live entertainment. I wish I could remember the musician's name because he was awesome! We also managed to squeeze in some pool and beach time...
Yesterday was another PERFECT day!! We topped it off with some zip-lining and burgers!

If you don't think it will happen, it will!

2009-03-19T15:17:00.003-05:00

Little Mr. Fordham turned 3 recently and had a big party. To everyone's amazement, 95% of the children actually stood where they were told for a group photo! just goes to show... you NEVER know!

Tutu Twirlin' Girlies

2009-03-18T09:17:00.008-05:00

Last night, Seaside hosted a St. Patty's Day band, SlipJig as well as an Irish dancing group from Ft. Walton. I haven't seen that many people in the Seaside amphitheatre in a while -- especially that many locals! It was lots of fun and the kids LOVED it!

Happy St. Patty's Day!

2009-03-17T09:51:00.002-05:00

My maternal great grandmother was an O'Hart so I can claim partial Irish heritage!
Hope everyone has a good day!

Fun Friday the 13th

2009-03-13T20:29:00.002-05:00

Anz had a fun day playing with her friend Alys this morning and then seeing the movie on the lawn at Baytowne (after an ice cream sundae!).... it was a good Friday the 13th!

the beach and a box

2009-03-12T10:05:00.004-05:00

It's sooooo beautiful here this time of year... mid 70s and sunny - just perfect! We're finally pulling out our shorts and bathing suits, showing off our pasty white legs and heading to the beach. Ansley had a GREAT time playing in the sand and let us know that the ocean was too cold. Instead of swimming, we ate dinner in the sand and relaxed!

and on a totally different topic...we found a new chair for her. Forget the $100 overstuffed chairs... this one was $18! :)

On the road again...

2009-03-09T09:42:00.007-05:00

I'm tired... and have a head cold. How's that for the start of a new blog post?? Happy Monday! :)
We spent last week in Georgia...mostly at GV's house but a few days in Atlanta visiting family. We had planned to be in Atlanta longer but the 'snow storm' last weekend changed our plans... we waited until AFTER it was over to head up.
So, time in Atl was limited but Ansley played with some of her cousins and then had good quality time with her G.V. in north GA. (GV gave us a night at Brasstown Valley Resort for my birthday!) Here are some pics:

Anz and her GV!

The view of Brasstown golf course from our room.

Ansley saw a cartoon with roller skating and insisted on pretending that her boots were skates and this hat was her helmet. We're just happy she wanted to wear one!

Liam playing dress-up with the girls... sorry Tripp.

Kate and Ansley playing dress up!

Ava's Barnyard Bash

2009-03-01T12:41:00.005-06:00

Beautiful Ava turned 2 recently and celebrated with a fun Barnyard Bash at her house! It was lots of fun and Mom & Dad went ALL OUT!

Ava in her barnyard dress!

After a yummy cupcake!

Handsome Pelham feeding the horse while sporting his appropriate overalls!

Ansley and Swaisie eating their cupcakes!

Pelham giving tractor rides...

Pondering...

2009-02-23T15:22:00.008-06:00

The Ponders drove down from Atlanta a few weeks ago for a visit. Although it rained 85% of the weekend, we managed to find some Grayton beach time...but then had to thaw out the kids... (Thanks for the house Jarrells - it worked out perfectly! Hope to see ya'll down here soon.)
Ponders, I hope we'll see you next week.

Ansley's Valentine's

2009-02-12T17:42:00.006-06:00

Over the past few weeks, Ansley's preschool class decorated their Valentine's containers and made cute crafts. Yesterday, they had a pizza & cake party... yeah, pizza AND cake! {don't judge, they're 2!}.
Here is Ansley looking at all of her adorable Valentine's...

I ♥ HEART!

2009-02-11T09:48:00.001-06:00

Had to share this adorable Ox born in Japan recently... check out his heart-shaped marking on his head! They appropriately named him 'Heart'!

{photo from AP}

GV's Visit!

2009-02-07T18:31:00.005-06:00

I've been such a blogger slacker this week... Ansley's GV (my mom) was here visiting and we had a great time. Ansley loves all her grandparents sooo much! Here are a few shots from the week... I was also a camera slacker. Bad Mom!

Our usual walk...

2009-01-31T08:15:00.003-06:00

last weekend. (I'm not feeling particularly verbose these days!)

Lil' Caretaker

2009-01-22T09:55:00.003-06:00

Ansley is into playing "tea party" and "cooking in kitchen" quite a lot these days. Normally she brings mommy and daddy spoons, teacups and saucers but on this occasion I guess she thought the doggies were hungry. They played along very nicely, as always!
(on another topic, is anyone else FREEZING? our small 2-story cottage has ONE thermostat and its located upstairs... so downstairs freezes while upstairs stays nice and cozy. ARGH!)

Birthday Boys!

2009-01-17T19:03:00.004-06:00

This past week, Ben and Cooper both had birthdays...11 and 4 respectively. We celebrated with a bone-shaped doggie cake and two special bones {The Doggy Bag in Destin has great treats for dogs and cats!}
Happy Birthday, Boys!!!!

the architects...

2009-01-16T17:32:00.007-06:00

and on another topic... Mimi thought Ansley could use a set of her own housekeeping tools.

just messin' around...

2009-01-12T18:45:00.004-06:00

Love my new sweater, GV! thank you....

Our friends, the Drowns, are moving to NC in a few weeks... Ansley will sure miss her friend Logan! (and we'll miss the whole family!)

Ansley helped Daddy sweep the front porch and driveway. I think she needs a broom her own size.

playin' {and poopin'}

2009-01-07T21:55:00.004-06:00

Ansley and Alys reunited today after their Christmas vacations. Poor Ansley was having her typical "issues" {if you know her, you know what I'm referring to} as they ran around the Seaside amphitheater. When cutie-pie little Gabriel asked her to jump into the grass after him, she replied with a sassy, "I'm Poopin'!" We couldn't help but laugh. I'm sure her daddy will instruct her to keep telling that information to the boys for as long as possible!

Lil' Logan Turns TWO!

2009-01-06T15:35:00.007-06:00

Ansley's friend Logan turned 2 right after Christmas and we celebrated last weekend.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LOGAN!

It's been too long...

2009-01-02T22:10:00.000-06:00

We drove to Dothan this afternoon to see some friends who were passing through. The little girl in the first photo with Ansley is Peyton Ellen. I was there for her birth in Atlanta 9 years ago. NINE years ago! I really can't believe it. Cort, the adorable little boy, was also born in Atlanta but instead of going to his birth, I watched {then toddler} Peyton and yellow lab Baxter. Cortie was 6 weeks premature so things were quite hectic that night/morning...but as you can see, he is a perfect lil' man!
It was great catching up tonight, Mitchell family! {yes, they are Mitchells too... but no relation.}

HAPPY 2009!

2009-01-01T01:39:00.002-06:00

Hope everyone stayed warm and toasty this New Year's Eve!

Bye Bye Baby Hair!

2008-12-29T12:03:00.008-06:00

Ansley had her first haircut this morning at Snip-Its! What an awesome place... totally for kids. She told the hair dresser 'thank you' about a million times and then was given a lollipop AND toy at the end. Anz was a happy camper.

Ho Ho Ho!

2008-12-26T11:54:00.013-06:00

Ansley's Christmas 2008!

I would have taken some photos during Ansley's visit with Santa at Phipps but I didn't know how to turn off my stupid flash, so I couldn't! This shot was taken right afterwards as she was gettin' sticky wit' it (candy cane). She was such a big girl, as she has been with all of her Santa visits. Not sure what she said to him but I did see her lips say 'mickey mouse house' and 'Dora'!

Christmas Eve, we went to Brasstown Resort to see their Christmas decorations.

Santa left lots of fun toys for Ansley!

After Christmas nap time, we went to Mimi & Poppy's cabin for yummy sweets, swinging and crafts!

We hope everyone had a very merry Christmas!!!

Parties and Playdates!

2008-12-17T14:27:00.006-06:00

Tuesday was Ansley's class Holiday Party! On special days, they get to watch a movie! (that's her on the far right in the red dress - NOT watching the movie!)

Little Miss Reagan is past her drop-off drama and is patiently waiting for the crafts to begin!

We ♥ Ms. Cindy!

This week, we also had our last play date of the year with beautiful baby Alys! Look at those blue eyes! Merry Christmas, Harp Family!!

Santa times TWO!

2008-12-14T20:37:00.010-06:00

Ansley had a big weekend, as you'll see. Yes, those are two different Santas. We visited Destin Commons first... then headed to Baytowne in an attempt to see the annual boat parade with the Drown Family. The parade was running late {and it was freezing outside} so we bailed but DID see Santa (who was being helped by Claire-bear and Ms. Leslie. What a nice surprise!)

Logan and Ansley waiting for the boat parade at Baytowne.

Ansley and Logan resting after a big bbq dinner!

Riding the Destin Commons train back to the car after seeing Santa.

On a walk with Ben and Cooper Saturday morning.

and the tree goes up

2008-12-11T20:59:00.006-06:00

We put up a tree - an artificial tree. We have nothing against real trees except for: the mess, dogs drinking from the water underneath, the mess... did I mention the mess? If you're reading this, you know I'm NO neat freak -- quite the opposite, but there's something nice and simple about popping up a fake skinny tree and not worrying about the water or it possibly being peed on by a furry Goldie. The skinny part is nice for us since space is at a premium! We actually managed to squeeze the tree into the family room WITHOUT having to remove another piece of furniture! YEAH!
So, we started off "tree day" with some eggs and then went to work.

amazing animals...

2008-12-08T13:15:00.003-06:00

Wanted to share a few stories I've read in the past couple of days... have you ever seen that saying, 'I want to be the person my dog thinks I am'??? Well, I think more of us could learn lessons from these incredible dogs:

Rescue

Safety

Now, go hug your doggie(s)! xo

Cookies & Kisses

2008-12-07T09:36:00.009-06:00

We ♥ Gigi! (and her mom's not too bad either)
The girls had fun eating cookies, looking at airplanes and sharin' the love yesterday at the Alys Beach tree lighting party. It was cold but I think the cookies and slide helped keep the little ones going.

Friday Fun

2008-12-05T21:09:00.005-06:00

Ansley had a big time at her favorite restaurant today. Not only did she help Colby take an order at the counter and help clean up...she also played a new sidewalk game. We'll call it 'Jump the Hoops'! These are cell phone pics so they're not the best...
Looking forward to the weekend...Santa is making an appearance at Alys Beach tomorrow afternoon!

Hear no evil, see no evil.....

2008-12-04T16:07:00.006-06:00

It was pretty chilly Tuesday night at Pizza by the Sea but the kids didn't seem to care (or notice). Stacy has these photos posted on Swaisie's blog but I couldn't resist... they're so darn cute!

Ansley Grace's Disney Adventure

2008-12-01T17:01:00.008-06:00

Ansley had a great time at Disney World and Animal Kingdom with her Mimi and Poppy! It was crazy-busy but she conducted herself VERY well! We didn't experience ANY tantrums... AND she napped in her stroller every day! I'm so proud of my little girlie. Here are a few pictures.

mouse bound...

2008-11-25T19:51:00.003-06:00

We're off... headed to Disney in the morning! I hope to have lots of funny pics to share when we return!
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! We have A LOT for which to be thankful, that's for sure!

Ansley goes to Alaqua!

2008-11-20T12:07:00.009-06:00

Heartworks Kids is a charitable organization run by local Lauren Romano. It brings together children of all ages from the South Walton area who wish to help the community in different ways. The children decide what is important to them and the parents simply facilitate their desires to do good. Lauren has a much more eloquent way of describing Heartworks' mission!
Yesterday, the group met at Alaqua Animal Refuge. I had prepared myself for shedding of tears at the sight of the homeless animals but was sooooo pleasantly surprised! Alaqua has provided a beautiful home for these animals which include dogs, cats, bunnies, horses, chickens and a turkey! (and more that I didn't see I'm sure!). If you live in the area, please take a morning or afternoon to visit Alaqua. They'd love the company and the animals love seeing people. When we arrived, we were immediately greeted by two curious but friendly horses! And if you're feeling charitable, please consider donating. They can always use dog/cat/bunny food, paper towels, crates, bleach, etc... or $ is appreciated as well. I'm really looking forward to our next Alaqua visit!

She's just ducky

2008-11-19T13:15:00.004-06:00

There hasn't been much to report from the Mitchell home over the past week. Both Mitchell girls have been sick so we've been homebound for the most part. Ansley DID make it to school yesterday and she was soooo happy! I didn't even get a good-bye once she saw Ms. Cindy with the play dough!
Sooooo, I thought I'd shamelessly plug Just Ducky Originals. Ansley is wearing a custom jumper from the Fall/Winter Home Show that Morgan and I hosted several months back. I was so happy when we put it on this morning and realized it fits perfectly! The ribbons under the arms are drawstrings which allow for more or less room in the upper portion of the jumper -- brilliant! My Ansley has short legs so her ruffled hems do touch the ground, but that's ok. Morgan and I will be hosting a Spring/Summer show in February. Take a sneak peak at the possibilities on the JD website. I love how each piece is customizable. For the jumper, I had to choose the fabric (aqua fine wale cord), monogram color, ribbon color, and leg trim style. Every item doesn't offer that many options but its a lot of fun -- IF you're the type who wants control! HA!

The Bibbit Train

2008-11-12T21:03:00.004-06:00

They're such good sports! Ben & Cooper tolerate so many of Ansley's shenanigans... she thought it would be fun to create a 'bibbit' train, I'm guessing -- while trying to ride on Ben like a horse. I'm really not sure if the boys knew they were giving piggyback rides to frogs.

And fun one day can turn to sickness the next. Momma tried to make her sick bed as comfortable as possible. sippy? check snack? check mickey? check elmo? check
Let's hope she gets better soon!

Tap Dancing Lyn... available for parties!

2008-11-09T20:35:00.012-06:00

If only he had worn his taps... Had fun Saturday night playing Guesstures and shy Lyn even had to act out 'tap dancing'. Needless to say, it was NOT guessed correctly. I don't have a picture of THAT scene but here are some pics from the rest of the weekend!

If you live here, be sure to check out Cottages for Kids in Rosemary Beach. Every year we're more and more impressed with the creativity and generosity.

Happy Birthday, Poppy!

2008-11-05T18:00:00.001-06:00

We hope you had a GREAT day!

November beachin'...

2008-11-02T17:39:00.004-06:00

It was a perfect November day here...warm enough for the beach! Let's hope it stays like this for a while.

Halloween 2008

2008-10-31T22:38:00.002-05:00

Click HERE to see pics from Ansley's big Halloween day... we Trunk-or-Treated at School this morning, then took a break, then Trick-or-Treated in Seaside later. We topped off a long day with some yummy pizza!

Happy Halloween Everyone!

First Date?

2008-10-28T17:04:00.010-05:00

Ansley and her buddy Gibson really took a liking to one another this past weekend. Looks to me like a first date... what do you think?

Jam-packed weekend

2008-10-26T21:30:00.015-05:00

Above: Batman (Lyn, yes, Lyn) partying in Alys Beach
Britney Spears (Shannon Loughridge) and HippieChick (me) in Alys Beach
Ansley and Gibson Loughridge playing
Ansley and her new buddy 'Nip Nichols', the Blue Heeler
Ben & Cooper walking into the Alys Beach Pet Party (see more here)
Ansley and Swaisie hanging out

Getting our chairs in a row

2008-10-23T13:45:00.004-05:00

Ansley has an obsession with putting her little chairs in a row. It doesn't matter if they're side by side or front to front. Sometimes she'll get them situated and then gesture for Mommy or Daddy to sit with her. Other times she'll grab a stuffed animal and sit with it. I'd love to know what a child psychologist thinks about this game of hers. (She also puts her plastic bath froggies in a row).. hmmmm

Week in review

2008-10-17T20:47:00.011-05:00

{attempting to haul off a pumpkin at Burt's Pumpkin Patch}

{Cooper napping on GV's porch}

{Ben napping too}

{Pumpkin kissing at Brasstown's stables}

{cousins Graham, Ansley and Kate}

{Ansley and cousin Julie on the carousel}

{vacuuming PotteryBarnKids}

I've been out of blogland for the past week! Ansley and I spent majority of our time at GV's {my Mother Viki} house in north GA while Lyn was in Tempe, AZ on business. We did have one day in Atl to visit with some of Ansley's cousins and aunts. There's just never enough time... I think last time we came up I told myself we'd set aside several days JUST for Atl but it didn't happen. {It's alright though... this time of year in Santa Rosa Beach is sooooo amazing -- beautiful weather and not as many tourists!}

...and if you read my post on terrible 2s... you'll be happy to hear Ansley behaved surprisingly well this week. I think the grandmother factor really has an impact!!! HA! She has also started talking a LOT more... just a month ago I was expressing concern to her Pediatrician over her lack of verbal skills. Just goes to show... give them time!

Happy 10

2008-10-17T20:08:00.003-05:00

Lyn & I celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary last Friday, October 10th. I can't

believe 10 years have already passed!

During our engagement, we both decided that we wanted to have a small outdoor wedding. The result was a beautiful ceremony at the Hyatt on Grand Cayman with 30 of our closest friends and family members. When I look at pictures from the weekend, it truly seems like it happened yesterday. I know the next 10 will be even better than the first!!

{last Friday night, we had dinner at Cafe Tango. I'm really not keen on posting pictures of myself but thougth I'd make an exception for this...}

Happy Anniversary Lyn! All my love...

PJ Party!

2008-10-09T16:03:00.005-05:00

Ansley's preschool class had a pajama party today with pillows, blankets and pizza! Here she is this morning before we left. {yes, she has shoes on OVER her footie PJs and YES, they match.}

And just a few random shots from this week... the attention span is getting longer but the eating is still VERY messy!

39 and holding

2008-10-06T12:45:00.007-05:00

This past Friday was Lyn's 39th birthday. Let me first say that this man couldn't care less about his birthday, aging or letting anyone know, for that matter, that he even had a birthday! So, to liven up the milestone, I surprised him with a cake during Trivia Night at Pizza by the Sea. The gang (thank you Colby, Claire, Bryan and David) gladly assisted me in embarassing him. {tip: bypass blue icing... it stains your teeth BIG TIME!}

Saturday night, we met Mimi & Poppy {Lyn's parents} in Navarre Beach for dinner. We had a great time but Auburn's loss didn't top it off very well. May I very eloquently say, "we suck"? {Ansley helped her Daddy open his cards}

Sunday morning we sipped coffee and made our usual trek through Watercolor's boathouse and over the big bridge. Ansley loves looking for "bibbits" (frogs) and "meows"... plus it really wears her out just prior to nap time!! {there she is, above, tree hugging}

To end the weekend, we headed out to Grayton Beach for some R&R and then enjoyed Cadillac Willy at Red Bar for a little while. We're sure glad, for Red Bar, that the 'entertainment' on the dance floor figured out how to shove her baggie back down inside her dress. I'll leave it at that!

Happy 39th Lyn! We love you!

Shhhhhh

2008-10-03T22:47:00.003-05:00

Marla has photographed Ansley since she was a little 4-month old baby. She has a magical way of capturing the most precious moments... I was smiling from ear to ear when I saw this teaser shot earlier today! Here is the rest of the gallery...

Logan's new puppy

2008-10-02T20:09:00.003-05:00

Ansley's friend Logan just adopted a new puppy! Someone is in love and I'm not sure if they have 4 legs or 2! {probably both!}

1 year ago

2008-10-01T11:09:00.003-05:00

Ansley and little Reagan have known one another since they were 4 months old. I found this picture of them at Kindermusik one year ago on Ansley's 1st birthday. They grow so fast! {You may have seen little Reagan on our 2nd birthday post below!)

First day of school

2008-09-30T21:35:00.007-05:00

Ansley-pants started preschool today! No tears from the 2-yr old but a few {OK, more than a few!} from Mommy. She did soooo well -- we're very proud of her.

{Right before leaving the house this morning.}

{Already yawning before we went inside!}{Playing with bubbles w/Mommy & Daddy}

{After school, hugging her friend Reagan!}

Fun with GV!

2008-09-26T21:28:00.005-05:00

Peek-a-boo at Fonville

backstroke {imitating the big kids}

GV kissing a booboo in Seaside

Tapas at Rendezvous

and I thought her "Terrible 2's" started 6 months ago... not so much.

2008-09-25T14:00:00.003-05:00

I swear, the week Ansley turned 2, a certain not-so-nice lightbulb went off in her. What I thought was misbehaving at 18-months old is nothing compared to her shinanigans now. If I say, "Ansley, let's walk over here and blah blah blah" the response I get is an adimant and sassy "MO!" {no for her) and a toddler chase. I'm not exaggerating when I say it happened THE SAME WEEK she turned 2. Fortunately, she doesn't act this way ALL of the time...but it's unpredictable! G.V. has witnessed it and I'm glad because I don't think she would have believed me otherwise!

Here are some pics from the visit so far....

The Verdict

2008-09-23T14:49:00.003-05:00

Met with an Allergist this morning. Ansley was tested for 16 different possible allergies based on our lifestyle and environment. The winners are... {drum roll}.... DOGS, DUST MITES, GRASS and..... CORN.
go figure
Yes, we have two golden retrievers. Yes, we have some rugs and carpet in our house. Yes, we have a grass front AND back yard. Yes, we eat corn occasionally.
Soooooo, I will be scheduling steam cleaning of all rugs/carpets. I will be washing ALL stuffed animals weekly in hot water. Ansley's bedroom will be receiving a new HEPA filter. She will be doing daily nebulizer treatments as a preventive measure to keep her airways open -- especially since preschool starts next week. And I will be encasing our mattresses and pillows with hypoallergenic covers. We will go back in November for a follow-up. Girlie did so well during the office visit. She whined a little when the nurse pressed the test panels on her thighs but didn't cry. She's a brave 2-yr old! {or "dooooooo" as she says}.

so, back to cleaning house. My mom is driving down for a week visit as I type. Still haven't vacuumed or made her bed! bye!

The Party

2008-09-21T14:38:00.018-05:00

setting up...

Fordham, Swaisie & Ansley

The vultures circle...

"hey, help me up please"

Alys finds ice.

Logan

Fordham

Swaisie

NO adults dared touch the cake.

Reagan helping Ansley open gifts.

I love you Daddy!

busted...

2008-09-21T12:36:00.002-05:00

Ansley's friend Caitlin in Atlanta had plans to jet-set down for the beach party but got a little sidetracked... her first bust for public indecency. Caitlin - you're not even 2 yet!

{yes, I'm kidding!}

Happy 2nd Birthday Ansley Grace! We love you!

2008-09-20T11:21:00.003-05:00

Time flies....

It seriously feels like yesterday that we were in the hospital staring at our baby girl and wondering, "what do we do now??"...

She opened a few presents this morning including her new bike. It was a big hit! So was her new kitchen from Mimi & Poppy.... I don't think I'll be able to pry her away from it for nap time... more pics to come after the beach party!

On the mend

2008-09-18T20:46:00.005-05:00

1 or 2 of you may be wondering why the blog hasn't been updated since Sunday... okay, you haven't wondered but I'll tell you why anyway. Tuesday, I started having symptoms of what I've been told is a stomach virus that is going around. I feel much better today but not 100%. I'm hoping another full night of sleep will do the trick and allow me to do errands tomorrow. Ansley has been especially 2-yr-old-ish today (in the defiant sort of way) so feeling 100% tomorrow would be great. (and for those of you who are thinking.... "hmmmm, stomach virus.... yeah right!"... you are oh so wrong. I've had a classic stomach virus!)

Here are a few pics from the week when I felt a splash of energy to pick up the camera.

What's better than...

2008-09-14T20:40:00.004-05:00

...supporting a great local charity, watching Auburn football AND listening to Cadillac Willy all at the SAME TIME?????? That's what we did Saturday night and it was so much fun. Stacy-by-the-Sea had her camera and snapped a few shots.

Cadillac Willy jamming at Red Bar while Auburn plays (some wouldn't call it "playing" last night!)

Lyn & Stacy

Wellie Sunday

2008-09-14T12:57:00.002-05:00

We received a box from G.V. yesterday with gifts for next weekend's big 2nd birthday. We went ahead and tried on one of the gifts.... NEW WELLIES! They're Ansley's first pair and she seems to LOVE them... she stomped around the house all morning.

Thanks GV! They're so cute! {how about that lovely bed head???}

On the hunt (but not for wabbits)

2008-09-11T22:30:00.004-05:00

Ansley and I stopped in Seaside this afternoon to check out the crazy surf. Our pit stop quickly turned into a hunt for meows. She doesn't refer to cats as 'kitties' or 'cats'... they are 'meows'. And since we don't have a pet meow, they're even more intriguing to her. This particular kitty was very sweet and obliged her by allowing a few touches from the jacked-up-on-steroid-inhaler-toddler! {I was a little surprised that she remembered the Seaside kitties... the girl has a memory!}

Y IKE S

2008-09-11T12:43:00.002-05:00

oh... poor Galveston & Houston....

Georgia Peach

2008-09-09T21:57:00.002-05:00

Ansley's newest 2nd cousin, Georgia Leigh, is a week old and doing great! We can't wait to hug & kiss that little one! {maybe in October??? I hope!}

Back to herself!

2008-09-08T20:55:00.009-05:00

Ansley was soooo incredibly exhausted last night that she barely noticed being awakened, rolled over on to her back and given two breathing treatments -- midnight and 4am. She's 1000% better today, thankfully. And as you will see below, she's back to her normal silliness. Her Funshine Bear had his 'treatments' today and Benet the Bear stood by for support. Benet was with Ansley all weekend so he knew how to help Funshine through it!

{Thanks for all of the kind words of support...it means a lot!}

Here we go again...

2008-09-07T18:11:00.004-05:00

Ansley-pants spent 36 hours of her weekend in hospitals. She's such a brave girlie.

In a nutshell...Friday night, she would NOT fall asleep. If you know her, you know that that's highly abnormal! For a few days prior, she had a runny nose but nothing major. My thought was allergies at that point so I made an appointment with an allergist for this coming week. Friday afternoon she started coughing a little but it wasn't alarming - seemed innocent. So, we put her down for night-night Friday around 8pm and she does NOT go to sleep.... instead she coughs, sneezes, cries a lot & then starts the wheezing and labored breathing. Around 3am, we decided to run her to the E.R. as we had done 3 weeks prior. After breathing treatments, chest X-rays and an IV the attending physician decided she needed to be admitted but not locally, in Pensacola.... long story on that but suffice it to say we finally spoke to our regular Pediatrician who insisted she be sent to Ft. Walton RATHER than all the way to Pensacola. Sooooo, because of the IV that they didn't want to remove, we were transported via ambulance (uhm, embarassing!) from Sacred Heart to Ft. Walton Beach Med Center. As luck would have it, once we got there and the nurse examined her IV, she saw that it was no longer 'good' and removed it. Mom was not a happy camper after all of that. While at FWB, she had breathing treatments every 2-3 hours all day/night. This morning around 11am, our Pediatrician checked on her and discharged us with instructions to continue the treatments every 4 hours for a few days... Ansley is NOT going to be happy about being woken up over the next few nights -- but you gotta do....

This weekend's events solidified my suspicion that we have a very sweet child on our hands. EVERY medical person who attended to her would receive a "tank du" in her sweet little 2-yr old voice and then a wave and a "byyyeeee". Even after going through 2 failed attempts at the IV and screaming bloody murder, she was sweet to the nurse. {while Mommy teared up watching her go through the pain}. And I HAVE to share this compliment we received from our last nurse at the E.R. Saturday morning.... she came into our isolation room and told Lyn & me that Ansley was the sweetest, most well behaved child she had treated. Of course, that made Mommy cry! {the sleep deprivation didn't help either!}

Soooooooo, plan of action.... get her breathing back to 100% in the short term and then visit the allergist who will determine if Ansley has Allergic Asthma or allergies in general. After doing some online reading, my uneducated guess is allergic asthma and I'm hoping it's being triggered by a seasonal thing rather than foods or doggies. We will see.

Davis goes to the zoo!

2008-09-05T11:23:00.004-05:00

My BFF Julie and her husband Kevin took their 14-month old son Davis to the zoo. I think this is one of the cutest pictures ever... Dad and Son sporting their matching Red Sox caps! {I'll have to find a Braves or Marlins cap for him soon!}

Hungry much?

2008-09-04T08:14:00.006-05:00

If you're hungry and you know it, raise your arms!

If you're hungry and you know it, steal Swaisie's bib.

If you're hungry and you know it then your lips will surely show it....

If you're hungry and you know it, wear some crumbs!

Night Night, Swaisie & Ansley {it's not like there are 10 other kids wanting to play with the parachute!}

Get your hands up for errands on a Wednesday afternoon...

2008-09-03T21:55:00.001-05:00

Welcome Georgia Leigh Ewing Thompson!

2008-09-01T20:39:00.005-05:00

My cousin Dwight and his wonderful wife Gwen welcomed their beautiful baby girl Georgia Leigh Ewing Thompson this morning in Roanoke, VA. We're soooooo happy for them!!!

{baby Georgia}

{Uncle Ron holding baby Georgia... he told me not to publish this one -- OOPS!}

The Gustav Effect

2008-09-01T12:49:00.005-05:00

We took these shots from the Santa Rosa Beach Club this morning. There's normally around 30 feet of beach. Today, NO beach! (New Orleans is approx. 300 miles west of here!)

It's hard to tell, but we saw waves as large as 6' breaking not too far off shore. If you're familiar with the Gulf, you know 6' waves are not common like they are on the East coast.

Labor Day Weekend 2008

2008-09-01T12:43:00.005-05:00

Swimming with Daddy

Finger-painting with Ellie {& not sure what to do!}

Ellie, Katie & Ansley before nap time

random thoughts on a sunday morning

2008-08-31T10:02:00.002-05:00

I'm trying to have a cup of coffee, check email, check blogs and do a little work... while Ansley watches her morning Barney and Daddy is off fly fishing. Here's what's going through my mind all at once:

- my couch will ALWAYS be hairy because I could never bring myself to not allow my 10-yr old golden retriever Ben to lay on it. {don't worry, when I know we'll be having visitors, I clean the couch!}
- my coffee is horrible. I found some old decaf and sugar-free powder creamer.... gross.
- that MUST be midgets (sorry, little people) inside the BJ and Baby Bop costumes???
- how bad will our weather get from hurricane Gustav?
- Cooper seems like he doesn't feel well...
- how many times is this lady going to walk past our house?
- I need to meet some friends at the beach but I'm soooo comfy right now
- I hope Lyn is catching some fish and having fun
- Craig's List is da-bomb... sold the golf cart in less than 24 hrs
- why does Ansley call Peach Yogurt Bites, "apple"?
- I need to wash the dogs
- i wish the condo would sell
- why does Ansley yell at the TV when the ice cream man shows up on Barney?

OK - that's just a small sampling... sorry if that bored you to tears! Getting motivated to head to the beach now. Little Katie and Ellie are waiting on Ansley.

Cat 4 Already...

2008-08-30T12:25:00.003-05:00

Gustav is a Cat 4 and hasn't even made his way into the Gulf very far yet... SCARY! I sure hope the coastal residents of Louisiana are evacuating this time!!!!!

I don't want to think about...

2008-08-27T09:20:00.007-05:00

...the trouble these two are probably going to get into. They are 3 months apart but Ansley didn't meet the birthday cut-off so they'll be in different grades. That might save them. We'll see. Meet Miss Swaisie here. {and visit her yummy pizza place here}

NO parent is perfect!

2008-08-26T16:08:00.008-05:00

...and it's true. We all try our best to do what we think is right for our family. We make mistakes...lots of them. But is anyone else fed up with seeing photos of Suri Cruise {who is 2 1/2 yrs old I believe} with a baby bottle AND blankie everywhere she goes? Ansley's last bottle was at 14-months old and I thought I was taking it too far!
I just read a psychologist's take on this and she suggests that Tom & Katie are choosing to allow the bottle because it's a source of comfort and familiarity for little Suri while she's being whisked all over the world constantly. That's understandable. Or how about this.... stay home and create a sense of security and stability for your toddler!

What do YOU think about this??????? Let me know!

Pics from "Quarantine Week"

2008-08-25T16:22:00.006-05:00

Snacking on cheerios...

Watching a video...

Trying to be a ballerina like The Wiggles...

Sitting with Daddy at the foot of the stairs...

Where's the beef?

2008-08-23T20:30:00.004-05:00

We hunkered down last night ready for a weekend full of major raining, wind and possibly some thunder & lightning. We've been happily let down.

Thank you Fay!

{doesn't look pretty in south GA or AL though! Sorry...}

I love me some Stickler Family Blog!

2008-08-21T20:07:00.004-05:00

I truly don't know how Darby wound up with 65 hours in her day compared to the rest of us who have only 24. The woman has THREE small children, an etsy shop, a home renovation-in-progress, a continually updated blog {which is so amazing}, many sewing projects, she cooks, on and on and on... I've never met her in person but I know 'mommasissy' {her twin Erika of Urban Grace Interiors}.

Sooooo, in addition to all of these things in her life, she's also now making adorable toddler T-shirts. Please take a look. I'm partial to the Auburn Tiger, of course.

And if you really want a treat, start reading her blog. You'll love it - especially if you have children. :)

WARRRR EAGLE!