The Wards

Bradys 1st day of school

2009-09-07T12:14:00.000-07:00

Brookes 1st day of school

2009-09-07T11:02:00.001-07:00

MINI VACATION TO CHARLESTON

2009-08-10T06:41:00.000-07:00

We left Thursday morning for Charleston & headed straight to Isle of Palms. I was sick on Wednesday so didn't pack until Thursday morning so we only got a couple hours in at the beach but that was plenty for the kids & to long for Heath (he hates the heat).

Thursday night I met from friends Jennifer & Margo & there families at Chuck E Cheese. The kids had a great time playing. We then went back to Jennifers so the kids could play some more & we enjoyed dessert. We ended up staying over there until almost 11:30 that night. Friday we took the kids to the waterpark & then did some outlet shopping that night. Saturday morning we got up and headed to my nephew Aarons birthday party in Branchville. We had a great weekend & we are not ready for school to start. I am keeping my neighbor (Brookes teacher) kids this week since teachers are back at school so atleast the kids are getting used to getting up early this week so maybe it won't be so tough next week.

beach

2009-07-19T22:30:00.000-07:00

Summertime

2009-07-19T19:29:00.000-07:00

Well, I posted back in May that our summer wasn't very busy well turns out it has been very busy but the best one yet. I honestly don't think I have heard the kids say I am bored one time. From cheer camps, vbs, vacations, the pool & movies we have stayed busy. On Sunday nights the kids have been spending the night with my parents all summer so I can work Mondays. Heath & I usually use that time to go buy groceries - very exciting I know. We joined the pool since some of the neighbors did and we usually go atleast 3 times a week. The kids love being up there swimming with there friends. We have also enjoyed some free movies but not every week since they start at 10am and my kids don't get up until after 9 each morning. Heath went to the beach for a guys weekend in June & I went for a girls weekend as well. The biggest event in June was ofcourse the birth of my neice. They have kept us busy this summer as well. The kids love going to their house. Never a dull moment with a 3 year old, 23 month old, 8 months old and newborn.

Madelynn Rose Teal

2009-06-30T17:39:00.000-07:00

Madelynn was born Monday weighing in at 7lbs. 10oz & 20 inches long.

Madelynn was born Monday weighing in at 7lbs. 10oz & 20 inches long.

party & awanas

2009-06-09T06:58:00.000-07:00

We had the awana awards day two weeks ago. Brady will be a 2nd year Cubbie next year & Brooke will still be in Sparks. Its really great to hear them learn bible verses each week and to hear Brooke tell us the books of the bible. I enjoyed teaching Puggles this year. We had a great group of 8 kids and I will miss them as they move to Cubbies next year.

We also celebrated Colbys birthday party at the lake weekend before last. The kids had fun swimming in the lake, tubing and fishing. This past weekend Heath took them to another b'day party at Wateree Gymnastics and Bradys sunday school class party. They got to ride 4 wheelers and swim. We had a yard sale Saturday and I told the kids if they sold some of their toys we could use the money to join the pool. Several of our neighbors go there so really wanted to join. Luckily we made enough to join pool and more summer fun money. I spent the weekend getting ready for vacation bible school. We had registration night Sunday night. We are lower in numbers this year but kids are having a great time. We usually run around 80 but we changed the week this year so I think some people didn't realize it was this week and others were on vacation. After this week our summer is not very busy which is what I like. Heath is going to beach this weekend with some guys to golf, I go in two weeks, my neice will be born on the 29th & we will go to the beach again in July as a family for a few nights. Hope everyone has great summer.

The end of the school year

2009-06-01T13:48:00.000-07:00

Brooke had a first grade hot dog party last Friday to celebrate the end of the year. I guess Brady thought he was the man dancing with all the girls.

After the hot dog party & Brookes game that night we suprised the kids at went to the beach and stayed with my sister & her family since they were already staying down there. They also had 8 free Myrtle Waves tickets so we enjoy seven hours of Myrtle Waves. We had a really good time because the kids could ride on the double tubes with us so we were all able to enjoy the fun slides instead of the usual kid area. I am not allowed to post pics of Julies kids. I have in the past and can't figure out how to get them off but that is why there are no pics of them. Once all adoption paperwork is clear I can. The picture of Brady crying is when we set the crabs free that we got last year at the beach. He has never paid them a bit of attention or cared about them until we "set them free". Never thought those crabs would live almost a year. Figured at the most a month. They spent the school year in Brookes class. Memorial day we spent the day with friends at the zoo & then ate dinner with my parents.

1st grade play & field trip

2009-05-16T14:20:00.000-07:00

Brooke had her first grade play last week and as you can see from the picture she was a tomato. She had to be a vegetable and I wanted her to be cute so we went with Bob from veggie tales. She was one of the few children who had speaking lines as well and did a great job. Thursday we had her field trip to Sesqui park to learn about plants. The weather was perfect since it was overcast and Heath got to join us for a couple hours as well. I can't believe there are only two more weeks of school left. We did found out Thursday as well that Brookes teacher is looping up which means she will take her same class and go up to 2nd grade with them. She & I are both very excited about this.

mothers day

2009-05-15T16:43:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a great mothers day!

No more training wheels & field day

2009-05-06T19:12:00.000-07:00

Brady has been asking Heath for weeks to take the training wheels off his bike. Well last week he finally did it and Brady fell one time got back up and started pedaling and never fell again. I think it helps that his bike is so small. Its definetly time for a bigger bike. Thursday Brooke has field day and ofcourse I had popcorn machine duty so my mom & Heath took pics. Heath got me a great zoom lens for my camera so he had a good time taking the picture of me working the popcorn machine from all the way outside of the cafeteria.

Baseball

2009-05-06T14:36:00.000-07:00

Brookes choir sang in church a couple weeks ago and she sang her first duet. Baseball has been going good. I will just say they are having a good time playing. The best thing about her coach is he always has prayer with them before the game & I think that is great. She is playing two nights a week and Heath is playing on a church team and plays two nights a week so we are staying very busy.

Mr. Lindsey

2009-04-24T13:32:00.000-07:00

This is our good friend Mr. Lindsey who passed away yesterday after years of health problems. Please pray for the family. They are an amazing Christian family & Mr. Lindsey was a godly man. He truly loved and cared for everyone. Please pray for my mom as she went to be with Mrs. Lindsey last night & they asked her to stay until after the funeral so she is in Charleston with them. This is the entry Mrs. Lindsey put on his caringbridge website & she couldn't be more right about him.......

Dear Ones,

We prayed for a miracle and Dell got one. My precious beloved husband is now without pain and is whole. He was welcomed into the arms of Jesus yesterday evening.
While my heart is breaking, I would not wish him back if I could—he is free from pain. Dell fought a good fight for over 6 months. He endured things that I could never adequately describe…but he continued on always doing his part to try to get better.
But he knew where HOME was and he was ready. And while I will miss him more than I can express, he is finally home.
There will be a memorial service this coming Sunday at 3:00 PM at Miles Road BaptistChurch in Summerville.
Dell loved the Lord and lived his life to tell others about Jesus. He poured himself into young men to help build men who stood for Christ. He cared about teens that needed Jesus. He cared about young couples and wanted them to have families that glorified Christ.
Dell loved our family and made many sacrifices over the years to provide for us and to protect us. We could never doubt the love he gave us on a daily basis.
I will miss my best friend, but I know I will see him again someday.
Do not feel your prayers on our behalf were not answered. Today Dell is singing in heaven.
Much love,
Jayne

Easter Sunday

2009-04-12T11:59:00.000-07:00

Brady has been waiting for weeks to wear his preacher suit. He asked my dad to buy him one so he bought all the grandsons suits and girls dresses. After they went and bought the suit he told my dad he didn't have any black shoes either, lol! I really wanted Brady to wear a pink shirt and plaid shorts but how could I tell him no? He looked so cute. The easter bunny came Saturday night and we had a great day at church. I am so thankful the resurrection and what it means to us as Christians. It also breaks my heart for those who don't have that relationship with Jesus & don't truly understand the sacrifice that was made for us.

egg hunt

2009-04-11T15:44:00.000-07:00

I have been bad at keeping up with blogging lately. A few weeks ago Bradys Sunday night class the Happiness Class sang in church. They did a great job. Brady loves going to happiness club on Sunday nights. They get to sing, Sam the puppet comes, they have bible story & craft. We are so thankful for Greg & Anitra teaching that class. Last week Brooke had her class Easter party so we got to go to that as well. We had our church easter egg hunt last weekend and hid over 1600 eggs but it still took no time for them to be found. We really enjoyed our spring break this week. The kids played outside with the neighbors (her teachers kids), spent the night with my parents one night and they took them to chuck e cheese, Heath was off Friday so we took them to Build a bear & we finished our Easter shopping. Hope everyone has a great easter.

EASTER PICS!

2009-03-24T07:47:00.000-07:00

I am finding it hard to keep up with my blog now that I am on facebook.
The kids had easter pics taken last week & they turned out good even with Brooke being scared of the rabbit. They have been busy with birthday parties and Brooke is busy practing for baseball. Her first game is April 14th & they practice atleast twice a week. Heath & I went to the beach this past weekend for our ten year anniversary. We had a great time of eating and shopping. I am very lucky to have a husband who can out shop me - kind of weird I guess. Anyways, my parents & his parents kept the kids and they had a good time as well.

Nathan Riley Dulaney

2009-03-01T12:50:00.001-08:00

My nephew Nate was born on Brookes birthday as well. She was induced and he weighed 8lbs 8oz. We got to go see him on Saturday and spend a few hours with them. They live in Rowesville which is about an hour and ten minutes away. The baby is doing great and Aaron is also doing well as a big brother.

Brookes turns seven!

2009-03-01T12:27:00.001-08:00

We celebated Brookes birthday party last weekend. We had all our family over for pizza that friday night. Heath found a razor skooter at target that was clearanced down from $250 to $115 and the box was messed up so they gave him an extra 10% off so he got it for less then $110 with tax. Brooke was thrilled and is enjoying riding it. I was a little nervous since it said for ages 14 and up but it also holds up to 170 lbs so I have enjoyed riding it myself. Saturday she had her all girl birthday party at the fine arts center. Her theme was High School Musical. I think she enjoyed her weekend and ended up with lots of great gifts, money and gift cards.
We also had cupcakes for her at school on her birthday Wednesday and took her to San Jose with friends Wednesday night before church.

Valentines Weekend!

2009-02-16T09:22:00.000-08:00

Friday Brooke had her class party at school since I had to make cupcakes and do the class store on Fridays Brady & I got to enjoy that as well. Saturday we went to Emmas birthday party at Skateland and the kids had a great time. Saturday night Heath & I went to eat with three other couples. I called my mom to check on the kids and she said Brady told her four times his throat hurt. When we picked them up at that night he was asleep & by midnight he was screaming and crying. He cried almost all night. Heath & I took turns holding him pretty much all night. There is definetly nothing worse then a sick child. Heath took him to the dr. Sunday morning & it was strep throat. I am just glad it wasn't the flu so he could get put on antibiotic & by Sunday afternoon he was watching Brooke & neighborhood kids out the window playing outside.

monster truck, ears pierced & school

2009-02-09T10:44:00.001-08:00

Last weekend Heath & Brady went to monster trucks while Brooke & I went to Claires to get her ears pierced....again. We also had Jakes 3rd Birthday Party.
This past weekend we had Lauren Elizabeths party at Chuck E. Cheese & the kid were so proud of themselves because they weren't scared of Chuck E. & even gave him a hug. Today I took Brady to the school he will be going to next year every day from 9-12. He was excited but when we pulled up he said that playground doesn't look very fun. Oh well, I am sure he will enjoy it.

Snow Day!

2009-01-22T13:28:00.001-08:00

The kids (and my dad) had a great time in the snow Tuesday. It made for a great four day weekend.

Gift Card Weekend!

2009-01-11T19:59:00.000-08:00

My mom asked us early in the week if she could keep the kids all night Friday night so we could have a date night. We went to Olive Garden since we had a gift card from Christmas. We were going to see a movie but the lines were to long so we just shopping in Sandhills & used our starbucks gift cards we got for Christmas. Thank you mom! Saturday we took the kids to see a movie since we had gift cards from Christmas. On the way we stopped at Dollar General for them to pick out some candy since they actually had 5 dollar gift cards to Dollar General they got for Christmas. We saw Bedtime Stories and it was really cute. Afterwards we went to Pizza Hut because of the gift card we had from Christmas. Thanks to everyone who gave us gift cards we enjoyed the weekend on you! Hope everyone has a great week.
Oh, Anitra thanks for lunch Sunday. I would have ordered Diet Coke if I knew Greg was buying, lol!!

Prayer Request!

2009-01-05T20:04:00.000-08:00

Please pray for one of my best friends Heather Branham and her family as her father had a heart attack and passed away this evening. Heather is married to Henry Branham from Lugoff. She is actually beside me in the previous blog in the blue shirt. Her Aunt & Uncle also live in our neighborhood & go to our church so please pray for the entire Branham/Hall/Brazell family. He was a Christian but I still couldn't imagine losing my dad at such a young age & so sudden so please pray for them.

Wendy

2009-01-03T15:36:00.001-08:00

I still can't believe Wendy & the girls are moving this weekend. Laura has moved back to Charleston, Heather to Summerton, Ana to Alabama and now Wendy to Greenville.
I am so thankful for the friendships made through our church & neighborhood. None of these girls are originally from here so I never really expected them to stay forever but the church and neighborhood won't be the same without Wendy, Kayla & Ashlynn.
Yesterday as we were packing up her house and the moving truck was there that is when it really hit me. I was kind of in denial that they were really leaving. I am thankful for people like Wendy who have been through so much but always has a postive attitude. She has been a great Godly friend who has taken her situation and used it for the good and has been such a role model for so many.

Christmas

2008-12-30T06:45:00.001-08:00

Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas & I hope everyone has a Happy New Year!

Christmas Parties, Santa comes to Awanas & Breakfast with Santa!

2008-12-21T04:25:00.000-08:00

What a week! Tuesday night we went to our church Christmas party. Wednesday night we had a Birthday party for Jesus & Santa showed up in Cubbies to watch them do their pledges & sing the Cubbies song. I asked the Puggles (2 year olds) if they wanted to see Santa and they said No. We had a gift exchange and we sang Happy Birthday to Jesus. Thursday we had Brookes class party. Brookes teacher loved her present. She had told me a long time ago she wanted one of these purses. The day after Thanksgiving la bag lady had them 50% off & her teacher had never seen the black &red. She is a georgia bulldogs graduate. Thursday night we had my work party at Old Armory & Friday night Heath & I went to a tacky Christmas party sweater. We had a great time but didn't get to stay that long. I called my mom to check on the kids and Brooke had been crying over thirty minutes for me. I think after being left three nights this week & getting to bed late she was just exhausted. Saturday morning we took the kids to breakfast with Santa at Candyland then went to Heaths aunts for another Christmas party. Last night we decided to stay home with the kids and spend time with just them. We ate dinner, made cupcakes, watched a Christmas movie then we all crashed at 9pm. I am looking forward to this week and if I don't post again I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas!

Our little Mary & Boykin Parade

2008-12-16T07:00:00.000-08:00

Brookes choir did their program Sunday morning and she did a great job as Mary. Her teacher even came to watch her. Then we met Marc, Sherri & Kendel & went to boykin parade. My boss had been asking us to come so we met up with her family and we were even on channel 19 news Sunday night. The kids picture is also suppose to be in the Chronicle one day this week. We have five Christmas parties this week starting tonight with our church one. Thank goodness this is also the last week of school.

Santa Claus!

2008-12-14T04:29:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we were invited to the Thompsons to see Santa, make a Christmas Tree & eat cookies. Both the kids sat on Santas lap. Brooke asked for an ipod & razor scooter & Brady asked for a four wheeler. He said is that it and Brady said no & Santa said no sir? Brady looked up at him like what?? but he said no sir real quick. My dad always corrects him & makes him say sir & mam which I think is great and he needs to be doing that but it was funny coming from Santa. Santa also told them the story of Jesus birth & I thought that was awesome. Brooke is Mary in our childrens choir program today & we are going to the boykin parade this afternoon. Hope everyone is enjoying this busy but wonderful CHRISTmas season.

Thanksgiving

2008-12-02T10:49:00.000-08:00

We went to Heaths grandmothers and ate lunch on Thanksgiving & the kids got to play outside since it was so nice. Then we went to the Powers annual Christmas lighting. Both of the kids sat on Santas lap & told him what they wanted for Christmas. This was the first time Brooke has sat on his lap since she was ten months old. After that we went to my sisters and had Sonic with them & my parents. Friday morning Sherri & I left at 4:30am to go Christmas shopping. We met our husbands & kids for dinner at 6pm then went back out. I got home around 8:30pm so we had a long day of shopping but did get some good deals. The husbands did take them to the movies so the day didn't drag to bad for them. Saturday my brother & sister & their families came to watch the football game at our house then for dinner we had our families Thanksgiving meal. Sunday after church Heath took the kids to a birthday party at Bounce Around while I cleaned house. Last night we finally put our tree up & the kids had a good time decorating it. I love all the handmade ornaments & ones with pictures on them from when they were babies.

Julie is PREGO!!

2008-11-26T13:18:00.001-08:00

Yes, Julie finally went to dr. today & she is right at 8 weeks pregnant. I have known for two weeks but had to keep quiet. She told no one and I told like five people and told them not to tell, lol! Her due date is July 6th. She got a call this morning that Hannah will probley remain in the foster home she is at right now until December 11th then the mom has the chance to get her back because she has stayed clean the last two drug tests. We will see what happens & pray that everything works out the way it should. She does not want to foster her if the mom has the chance to get her back. Doesn't want to get attached or the kids attached to her. Anyways, Happy Thanksgiving again! CONGRATS CYNTHIA & JOEY ON THE BIRTH OF ABIGAIL TODAY! SHE IS BEAUTIFUL. MAKE SURE YOU KEEP UPDATING YOUR BLOG SO WE CAN SEE HER IN ALL THOSE OUTFITS YOUR SISTER BOUGHT.

Thunderbash, my little indians, singing, book parade & Christmas list

2008-11-26T04:16:00.000-08:00

Maybe I should blog more often so I want have so much to blog about or realize I don't have to blog everything I take a picture of. Last Monday Brooke got to attend a Bounce party at schoool for selling over $70 in fundraiser stuff. Wednesday night for awanas the kids had to dress like pilgrims/indians. Brooke has worn the same Old Navy costume for three years well she could barely move in it this year. Mom get ready to make a new one. My mom made Bradys outfit (thanks mom). Saturday the kids cut out pictures like they do every year to make Christmas lists for grandparents. Its crazy they don't play with half the toys they own but cut out atleast a thousand dollars worth of stuff. Now its ipods, digital cameras, razor scooters. Sunday Brookes choir sang their Thanksgiving songs.Monday Brookes school had book parade. Her class selected SkippyJon Jones which is about a white cat with black tail, black paws who thinks he's a dog when he looks in the mirror. My mom made her a cat costume (once again thanks mom) and I must say I don't normally like cats (sorry Margo) but she was one cute kitty. Yesterday Brookes class had pow wow day & the parents got to come and enjoy vegetable soup. I think that keeps you updated until Thanksgiving. Hope everyone has a great one. We have so much to be Thankful for. Right now I am really thankful Heath took today off & we don't go back to work until Monday.

It's A Girl!

2008-11-22T17:54:00.000-08:00

Yep, thats right its another baby for our family. Well, thank goodness its not me.
Jacob & Jadens birth mother gave birth almost two weeks ago to a little girl she named Hannah. They are working on getting Julies foster license switched from two kids to three so hopefully if all goes well she will get the baby this week. Not sure she will get to adopt this one as the mom will once again get the chance to get her act together and get the baby back. Well, she didn't with Jacob & Jaden & that should all be finalized December 18th so chances are she won't this time either. I will post pics as soon as she arrives.

Flowers & Babysitting

2008-11-13T17:10:00.001-08:00

Well, I will follow up with my last blog that said vote. I did vote & the one I voted for didn't win so I will once again just say pray, pray & pray some more.
Heath & I are doing the love dare book so Wednesday he brought home these flowers since the book said to buy your spouse something that day. I ofcourse totally forgot and he comes home from work with flowers. The kids & I had just gotten home from Piggly Wiggly to buy brocoli. I said well I bought brocoli for the rice & brocoli casserole I am making for your thanksgiving lunch at work tomorrow. I am not real sure if that counted but I thought it was sweet that he remembered.We babysat Jacob & Jaden tonight and Jaden loves to go get Brookes purse and pull everything out of it and put on the jewelry. Hope everyone has a great weekend.

Vote!

2008-11-04T04:12:00.001-08:00

Don't forget to get out there and vote today & pray, pray, and pray some more. Our kids will be selling lemonade, cookies, doughnuts and other goodies at Lugoff Elgin Middle today so stop by if you get a chance or if you are voting there. Brooke & Brady have the 11am-1pm shift. The money is for Operation Christmas child.

Trunk or Treat

2008-11-01T20:57:00.000-07:00

Friday night our church celebrated with Trunk or Treat. We have over thirty families decorate their trunks and my kids got way more candy then they needed. Yes, thats my mom dressed as Raggedy Ann. She loves Halloween - she was Tina Turner one year. Brooke ofcourse was Dorothy, Brady was the lion, my nephew Aaron was a scarecrow, Jacob was the tinman and Jaden was a lolipop gil. We managed to trick or treat at my neighbors first (Brookes teachers house) and then headed to the church. Brooke also won a cake playing the cakewalk at church and she got so excited about that. The kids had a great time and were worn out. We had to get up early for Brookes last soccer game but the kids had a great time.

SINGING, PUMPKINS & NOTE

2008-10-30T05:58:00.000-07:00

Brookes choir sang in church Sunday morning and I could actually hear her on some parts. She usually doesn't sing but just moves her mouth. Monday night we decorated pumpkins they had to have for awanas last night. Heaths carving skills aren't that great so we played it safe this year and just stuck to decorating. Last night after I put Brooke to bed I went downstairs to clean up and found this note written on the napkin. I thought it was really sweet and had to come up and kiss her one more time while she slept.

FIELD TRIP & FLORIDA

2008-10-26T20:16:00.000-07:00

A little late on posting but have been busy. Week before last I went on a field trip with Brookes class to Finley park and to see Junie B. Jones. This picture of her class was taken at the park. Last Sunday Heath & I left for Jacksonville, Florida. We had a great trip & the hotel was so nice. Monday he was at his marketing booth in the hotel from 7am-5pm. I left the hotel around 9:30 & drove 30 minutes to St. Augustine to shop at the outlets. I stayed at the outlets from 10am until 4pm. It was so nice to not have to rush & to buy without hearing do the kids really need that? lol! Monday night Heath & I went to Ruby Tuesdays & to see the movie Fireproof. The movie was awesome & Heath & I are now doing the bible study that goes along with it. I would recommend this to all couples. Tuesday Heath had a breakfast & then we hit the road. We stopped at the Hilton Head outlets on the way home at got back around 5pm to get the kids. It was great to get away and spend time together but I was ready to get home to my babies. We also had another "date" Thurday night my parents kept the kids all night & we went to the Rascall Flatts concert. Brooke got her report card Friday and made the A honor roll so after he soccer game & a birthday party yesterday we took the kids to see High School Musical 3. Hope everyone has a great week.

Fair!

2008-10-13T19:27:00.000-07:00

We got to the fair around 3p.m. Friday and the kids rode rides for about two hours. The weather was perfect and it wasn't crowded. The kids were able to just walk on most rides. They never had to wait more then a couple of minutes. We ate and looked at the animals then we went to the Sugarland concert. We had great seats. We were row 7 right in the middle. The kids love Sugarland and Brooke couldn't believe it was really them when they came on the stage. They put on a great show as always.
Brady slep thru most of it but Brooke really enjoyed it. The guy behind us caught one of the guitar picks and gave it to Brooke. Saturday morning Brooke had a soccer game (they won) and pictures. Heath went to the Notre Dame game with our neighbor and even though they lost he still had a great time. Brooke and I are going on a field trip tommorrow to see a Junie B. Jones play. Anyone with kids around that age needs to get some of her books. They are so funny. Anyways, Hope everyone has a great week. If I don't post again pray for Heath & I as we are leaving Sunday to go on a business trip. He is going to Jacksonville, Florida and I decided since it was just him going and no other coworkers I would tag along. I am a little nervous about leaving the kids but am looking forward to spending time together. We will be home Tuesday night.

getting ready for halloween

2008-10-07T07:16:00.001-07:00

We decorated our house for fall & halloween this weekend. The kids have now decided they want to wear the costumes we bought last year. They changed their minds at the last minute. Brooke is going to be Dorothy & Brady is going to be the lion from the Wizard of Oz. Well Bradys costume still fits but Brookes is to small. I think my nephew Aaron is going to be a scarecrow & Jacob is going to be the tin man. Julie is still trying to find Jaden a toto costume. Thought these were cute picture of them in Halloweens past.

Happy 4th Birthday Brady!

2008-09-28T13:35:00.000-07:00

Today my sweet baby boy turned four years old. We celebrated with family & friends yesterday morning with a Star Wars party. It rained all day Friday and most of the night. I was worried that the rain was gonna mess us up but by 10am the weather was perfect. We dried off the swing set and trampoline and put up two bounce houses and the kids had a great time. Brady got alot of nice presents and had a great time. He woke up this morning and said maybe my friends who couldn't come to my party will bring my presents to church with them. He is starting to act more like his sister every day. He is a sweet boy and we love him very much. He definetly completes our family and we are so blessed to have him.

On a sad note Brooke started running fever last night and said her throat hurt. Heath took her to doctors care this morning and she has strep throat. She will not be able to go to school tommorrow. She had perfect attendance last year but I figured we wouldn't make it this year. She is starting to feel a little better now.

soccer & zoo

2008-09-21T19:10:00.000-07:00

The kids started awanas Wednesday night and Brady said he changed his mind he doesn't want to be in Cubbies because its way to long. I told him to give it a few weeks he would like it. Brooke got her progress report Thursday and has all A's so we hope she keeps that up. She also had her first soccer game Thursday night. They won the game but it wasn't because of her. She doesn't even attempt to kick the ball. Heath told her he would give her fifty cents each time she kicked the ball. They had a game Saturday morning and won again. He owed her one whole dollar for kicking it twice. Friday afternoon Julie and I took the kids to the zoo and then Friday night we went to the Lugoff Camden football game. Saturday Brooke had her soccer game and a birthday pary for one of the girls in her class. I had a bridal shower and Heath and I had a couples shower Saturday night in Blythewood for one of his coworkers so it was a busy weekend. He & one of the guys he works with left this morning for Williamsburg Virginia and will be home late Tuesday night. Hope everyone has a great week.

Cheering!

2008-09-17T05:47:00.001-07:00

Brooke did a great job cheering at the Lugoff game Friday night. We start Awanas tonight and Brady is so excited about being in Cubbies. Last year he was in Puggles with me so I guess it just seems like a big boy class to him. He woke up Sunday morning and the first thing he said is today is the day I register to be a Cubbie. I had to find Brookes old vest and pull out the little things she earned off of it for him to use. She will be in Sparks again since its kindergarten - 2nd grade.

Brooke has her first soccer game tommorrow night. She doesn't like soccer at all and has begged us to let her quit. Told her I couldn't get my money back so she was playing.

First 5K, Cheer Clinic & Baby Shower

2008-09-08T19:30:00.000-07:00

Heath & I ran our first 5k at Sesqui Saturday morning. It was actually fun to do that together.
We didn't actually run together since I beat him by two minutes, lol! Seriously, I am very proud of him. The kids spent the night with my parents Friday night since we had to be at race at 7am and Brooke had to be at cheer clinic at 9am Saturday morning. We went and saw what they had learned and she gets to cheer at the Lugoff Elgin football game Friday night. Sunday night the church had Julie & Chad a shower and they got tons of stuff. Money, gift cards, clothes, diapers and lots more. Hope everyone had a great weekend. Oh, HAPPY BIRTHDAY COLBY & CONGRATULATIONS TO RACHEL & DEAN!!

Happy Birthday Jaden!

2008-08-31T13:49:00.000-07:00

Well, school started and now things are even crazier so I am late posting. We celebrated Jadens first birthday last weekend. We also had Tys football party last weekend so the kids got to break out the Notre Dame stuff early this year. Brooke also started soccer last week and really enjoyed her first practice. We went to Charleston Friday and came home last night for Cynthias baby shower. (Don't kill me Margo), lol! It was a short trip but Chad got us a free room with his points so we couldn't pass it up. We did a little shopping and had a great time at the shower. Cynthia and her family are close friends of our family and her sister Jennifer and I are still great friends. They were excited to see the new kids and we are so excited for Cynthia & Joey. They have gone thru alot to have this baby and we are so glad the Lord has blessed them and can't wait to meet Abigail Mia Colson. Hope everyone has a great labor day!

First day of school & babies coming home

2008-08-18T19:34:00.000-07:00

Brooke had a great first day of school. Here are some pics we took this morning before school. Heath was able to come to the school this morning and see her in the classroom but then flew out for Minnesota for meetings. He will be home around midnight tommorrow night so just a short trip. Also, my sister had the kids this weekend and when they took them back Sunday night the kids cried and so they decided to let Julie & Chad get them for good tommorrow at 2pm instead of waiting until Friday. We are so excited!

Meet the Teacher

2008-08-16T06:24:00.000-07:00

Thursday night we went to Meet the Teacher. We actually spent the afternoon helping Brookes teacher get her room ready. Her teacher Mrs. Paul is our next door neighbor. Its great she is going into first grade already knowing her teacher so well. She spent a lot of time this summer playing with Mrs. Pauls children. Here is a picture taken in the lunch room with her friends Grace, Colby & McKenna. My friend Laurie sent me this picture since I forgot to bring my camera.

an email from Julie

2008-08-12T07:39:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone!I just wanted to take a minute to thank everyone again for their prayers and support-they are greatly appreciated. Chad and I were able to have Jacob and Jaden spend the weekend with us and we had a blast! They are such lovable children! We played sidewalk chalk, colored, and went to Sonic for icecream. Chad and I were worried that Jacob would be scared at bedtime, being in a new place with new people, but he was so brave-he nevered cried-an answer to prayer.He loves to play "tickle monster" and is truly full of energy. Jaden is just as laid back as her caregivers described her to be. She has cute little dimples and loves to play in the floor with her brother. She loves to open and close the kitchen cabinets and has already tried to figure out the child safety locks on them.We also got to see Jaden take her first steps Friday night, which was great-she giggled, took three steps to me and plopped down as if she were exhausted. It was adorable. We took the children back to the children's home on Sunday afternoon after church. This was difficult-but we're just counting down the days until their are home with us at last. Chad and I were both able to go see them last night and I will be going again today. It gets more difficult to leave them each time we go and visit, but we want them to see us as often as possible, so that we can become more familiar to them. I will continue to keep updating as often as possible. Thanks again, Chad & Julie

Charleston & Aaron turns two

2008-08-12T04:53:00.000-07:00

We left Thursday afternoon and headed to Charleston for a little mini vacation before school starts. We got to eat & spend time with my friend Jennifer & her family Thursday night. The guys even kept the kids while we shopped. Friday morning we picked up Brookes friend Natalie & headed to Isle of Palms for the day. One of my bestest friends from middle school met us there with her two boys. It had been a few years since I had seen Margo but we still keep in touch and I am so thankful for the friendship we still have. She is a great person & you can view her blog by looking under my friends list. Saturday we got up and headed to Branchville for my nephews 2nd birthday party. We spent a few hours there then met my friend Heather & her family in Santee for dinner and I got to see her two boys and three week old baby girl. Heather & Henry moved about a year ago & I still miss her sooo much. She was my closest friend but I am glad they are happy where they are. We finally made it home around 8pm to meet Jacob & Jaden. It was a great way to end our summer. I have enjoyed having Brooke home and we had a great summer but I am ready for 1st grade next week. Brooke will be in Mrs. Pauls class which is our next door neighbor. Hope everyone has a great week.

Meet Jacob & Jaden

2008-08-11T20:18:00.000-07:00

My sister & Chad picked Jacob & Jaden up Friday afternoon and they spent the weekend with them. They had a great time with then and I must admit I loved seeing their house messy, lol!

Chad said he will never say anything to me again. Jaden is very clingy to Julie but she is use to being around woman. Chad said she is going to be a daddys girl she just doesn't know it yet. Jaden also cried tonight when they left after going to visit them. They are trying to get them again for the weekend and they are going to spend more time at the childrens center this week. They were suppose to get them for good August 21st but since Jadens birthday is the 22nd they let the parents visit with the child on their birthday so now they won't get them until the afternoon of her birthday.

ANOTHER UPDATE ON JACOB & JADEN

2008-08-06T20:56:00.001-07:00

Hello Everyone!Chad and I had our second visit with Jacob and Jaden today and it was much harder to leave them today than it was on Monday, but we are thankful for the time that we were able to spend with them. We arrived at dinner time and I was able to feed Jaden her noodle casserole and mushed fruit. I was able to see a little bit of her temper for the first time as she let me know with a high pitched grunt and a reddened face that she was full! Her caregivers say that she can get quite the little attitude sometimes, but thankfully it only lasts for a few seconds. We'll just say the temper comes with the red hair! ha. Chad spent most of his time with Jacob, as Jaden is not used to men (the cottage care takers are mostly women) We also got to see him pout, poochy lip and all-it was adorable. They told him that he had to eat his vegetables in order to get dessert, so he had himself a little pouting session, which lasted for a few minutes. After dinner we spent a little over an hour in the playroom with Jacob and Jaden and the other children at the cottage. Jaden loves my cell phone and pocket book and Jacob....well, he's all boy and seems to like any type of toy you place in front of him. Although Chad and I are anxious for the children to be at home with us, they are being well taken care of. Their caregivers are wonderful loving people, which gives us peace of mind. Chad and I prayed that they were being read to, tucked in at night, etc and we found out tonight that they are-another answer to prayer. God is so good!!! We get to have them here this weekend and then they will be placed in our home on the 21st of this month, one day before Jaden's 1st birthday!! I want to thank everyone for their cards, emails, calls, etc. I'm sorry that I have not responded to everyone's voicemails-it's just easier to send out one email rather than tell the same information over and over again. And for those who have asked, we have not registered yet, but when we do, it will probably just be at Target since our "Babies R Us" is quite a long drive from here. Our church will be throwing us a shower on Sunday, September 7th so we'll register sometime between now and then. Thanks again for all of your love and support. I"ll email with another update after this weekend. Chad & Julie Teal

MORE PARTIES

2008-08-05T05:57:00.000-07:00

Friday night we went to Mackenzies b'day party at the pool, Saturday we went to Olivias party at Bounce around & I went to Rachels baby shower. Sunday we had a going away to college shower for Frankie. It was busy but fun. We are leaving thursday afternoon to go down to Charleston for the weekend. We are taking the kids to the beach, visiting with friends, shopping at the outlets then Saturday we have my nephews birthday party. Hope everyone has a great week and weekend since I won't be posting again until after the trip. Again, thanks to all who have told me they are praying for my sister and please continue to keep them in your prayers.

JACOB & JADEN

2008-08-05T04:57:00.000-07:00

HERE IS AN EMAIL MY SISTER SENT OUT ABOUT THE CHILDREN THEY ARE ADOPTING

Hi Everyone! We finally got to meet our future children today for the first time. Jacob is 2 1/2 and Jaden will be one on August 22nd and they are of course the cutest things we've ever seen! We can not begin to describe just how much joy we felt in meeting them. Please continue to pray for us, as Jaden's adoption process is going to be a more difficult one than Jacob's. The state could come take her back into custody if her father follow his court ordered "treatment plan" We also recently learned that the birth mother is pregnant again, so if her rights are completely terminated, then we will also be able to adopt the newborn as well. So, we will then have 3 children-God truly does have a sense of humor!!! We will see the children again this Wednesday and then, they will come home with us for the weekend for a 'trial run' If all goes well and the paper work is completed, we should have them in our home for good within a few weeks. Please pray that God will grant Chad and I patience as we just CAN NOT wait to bring them home. We have seen God's hand throughout this entire process and feel strongly that He handpicked these children for us. So, please keep us in your prayers as we begin the "legal battle" to obtain custody of them. We will keep you posted as we know more. Thank you all for your love, friendship, prayers and support! Chad & Julie

Parties & the lake

2008-07-31T06:10:00.000-07:00

Well, we had a busy but fun weekend. Friday night we had Carsons swim party. Then Saturday we had Bransons swim party in the neighborhood then it was off to Joseph & Chandlers swim party. After we left that party we went straight to the lake. Brookes friend from school Colby invited our family up to there lake house to eat dinner, swim, fish and tube. We had a great time. My mom called me at work Monday morning to tell me Brady said his ear hurt. I took him to the dr. that afternoon and he has swimmers ear. I guess after 4 pool parties and the lake I wasn't to suprised. Hope everyones had a great week. Say a prayer for my sister and Chad that everything goes smooth tommorrow and they are hoping to get the kids by Saturday.

IT'S A BOY & GIRL

2008-07-24T18:46:00.000-07:00

My sister got a call this evening she has been waiting to get for months. Her social worker called to tell her that they have picked her and Chad to adopt a little boy and little girl. They are brother and sister and the little boy is is two and the little girl is one. Julie is meeting with them next Friday. They are white and both healthy(she said she would take any color). She and Chad are very excited. We are just praying that everything goes smooth and nothing happens between now and then. If you could just say a little prayer for them.

BEACH TRIP

2008-07-15T07:49:00.001-07:00

We left Thursday morning for a long weekend at the beach with Marc, Sherri and the boys. Theyhad been down there since Saturday and asked us to come for a few days. We spent the days laying on the beach, swimming in the pools and lazy river. We went for seafood the first night and decided to stop at Wings to get shark tooth necklaces for the kids and ended up buying crabs. I was not real excited about this but since Carson and Kendel were getting them I figured I would look like a bad mom if I didn't let the kids get the crabs. I figured they are crabs they will die in a few days. Well one of Bradys did but they replaced it and we have 4 healthy crabs living in a cage in our living room. The kids had a blast and we enjoyed getting away. We got home around 8:30 Sunday night and my mom came and got the kids to spend the night. Well they went to bed late and got up early Monday morning so its now 8:30 am and they are both still sound asleep. I hope they are catching up on all the sleep they lost. Hope everyone has a great week.

4th of July

2008-07-15T04:37:00.000-07:00

I am a little late posting these but been busy lately. We spent the afternoon at the Powers house swimming then went to church for a cookout and fireworks. Yes, that is Sherri on Heaths shoulders chicken fighting.

Beach Trip & going to be an Aunt - again!

2008-06-30T12:33:00.000-07:00

We had a girls weekend Friday - Sunday at sheris place in Pirate Land. We had a great time eating, laying out and shopping.

The kids also did good for Heath. They spent the night with my parents Friday night so he got lucky but then he had to take them to two birthday parties alone on Saturday. We went to church Sunday night then the kids went and spent the night with my parents again so they didn't miss me to much. My brother ( yes, I have a brother) called last night to tell me that I was going to be an aunt again. My nephew will be two in August so I kind of figured it was going to happen soon. We are hoping for a girl but another boy would be okay as well. She is only around six weeks they think so we have a long ways to go.

motorcycle & exciting day

2008-06-27T05:18:00.000-07:00

I am not really sure if this would be considered a midlife crisis or what. My dad bought a little honda just to mess around on. He says after he is comfortable on this one he is going to sale it and get something bigger. All the men in our church keep getting bikes so I guess they finally talked him into it. This is definetly something I never thought I would see.

Dressing barbies and taking pictures of them is one way we stay busy during the hot hours when I refuse to play outside. We also attempted to make brownies this week we had all the ingredients in the bowl except eggs and when I went to get them out of the refrigerator I realized we didn't have any so we just ate the peanut butter bites out of the brownie mix. We have such exciting lives, lol! I am going to the beach for a girls weekend! Hope everyone else has a great weekend.

V.B.S.

2008-06-27T05:07:00.000-07:00

We finished v.b.s. last night and the kids had a really great week. We had around 80 kids each night. Tuesday night was splash night and we had pools, slides and sno cones. Thats the only thing I managed to get pictures of. I forgot my camera last night when they got their certificates.

Swimming Lessons

2008-06-24T11:57:00.000-07:00

The kids took swimming lessons at the rec. dept. last week. Brooke did very well because she had a great teacher. Brady did not do so well because he had a guy teacher who was to busy flirting with the girls working there and doing back flips in the water to teach Brady how to swim. Brady did jump off the diving board but he has no fear. Brooke said there was no way she was jumping off. We have Vacation Bible School this week and after two night already things are going good & the kids are having fun.

Ball team party & buzz cut

2008-06-16T11:44:00.000-07:00

Friday night we went to Satos with all my family since my brother and his family came up for the weekend. Saturday Brooke had her baseball team pool party and she got her trophy. We also had Toris party at wateree gymnastics and Graces party at the church so we had a very busy but fun day. Today while I was at work Brady called and asked me if he could shave his head or get a mohawk. I told him no way it will look silly and he said I want to look silly. Well, my dad talked me into letting him take him to get a buzz cut. He is so proud of his new do but I am definetly making him grow it back out. Last night didn't go so well with them staying at my parents. Brady stayed up till after 10 and Brooke until after 11 then they were both up off and on all night and got up at 8. Well Brooke never gets up before 9 during summer so I am not sure my mom is gonna let them stay every Sunday night after all. They are exhausted and start swim lessons this evening so I hope they can hang that long without crashing. Oh, Brookes choir also sang for fathers day. Not the best picture since she was right behind the microphone.

My babies daddy!

2008-06-15T20:16:00.000-07:00

This morning we had donuts for dads at church then we went to San Jose for lunch. After lunch we went to see Heaths dad. Then back to church and after dinner this evening the kids went to spend the night with my parents again. For fathers day the kids got Heath clothes. They were so proud giving it to him. They made me put it in two gift bags so they both could give him one. He acted so excited and suprised over clothes just because they were so excited and proud. He is a really great dad and husband. We are so blessed to have him. Hope everyone had a great day!

They finally did it!

2008-06-10T08:07:00.000-07:00

Both the kids wanted to spend the night with my parents last night. I guess after staying with Sheri Saturday night Brooke decided it was alright. My mom came to get Brooke last night and Brady decided he wanted to go to. She said they both fell asleep at 10pm last night and slept until 8am & the phone rang and woke them up. Heath and I went on a date to Sonic to get Reeses Blasts at 8:30pm last night. It was really nice to not have any noise coming from the backseat, lol! Anyways, on a sad note my mom called me this morning and asked me to walk up to my sisters house because she had just found out her really good friend Mary Cathryns ex-boyfriend killed himself last night. I had to take my sister to meet my dad & Mary Cathryn at the church this morning. Luckily my dad got the opportunity to talk to Rob a few weeks ago for over four hours and he got saved. My sister had been talking with him alot lately as well as he had been dealing with some issues. She said he asked her about heaven sunday night but never once did she think he was suicidal. Please pray for his family. They live in Northeast Columbia. His name was Rob Cash and he was only thirty one years old. My heart broke for Mary Cathryn when I saw her this morning. I pray that she will come to know the Lord as her personal savior thru all of this. Thanks for your prayers!

My daddy

2008-06-08T19:21:00.000-07:00

We took pictures at church today for a slide show they do for fathers days with all the dads with their children. Ofcourse my brother couldn't be here but since most of you didn't realize I even had a brother until I started this blog its alright. Anyways, I love this man and I am so thankful for him.

Cheerleading Camp

2008-06-08T18:09:00.001-07:00

Brooke and her three little friends had a great time at cheerleading camp this past week.

She also spent the night with Sherri saturday night which was a first. I really thought I would be going to pick her up at midnight but she did great. I think because Sherri had another little girl named Brooke staying with her that helped. It was really hard letting her stay because I guess I kind of liked the idea that she wouldn't spend the night off. It took me forever to fall asleep saturday night but she told me she never got scared. Anyways, Hope everyone has a great week.

Swimming & Baseball

2008-06-04T04:51:00.000-07:00

Friday was the last day of school, yay!!! They got out at 11:15 and my parents picked Brooke up and took them fishing at the lake while I worked. They both caught a small fish but I have no pictures because my mom likes to video tape everything instead. Friday night and saturday afternoon we went Sherris parents and ate and swam. Brooke finally jumped off the diving board for the first time. Brady jumped off the side of the pool but was not ready for the diving board. Saturday morning was the last baseball game as well. They didn't win but Brooke hit all three times. She played against Ashley and they are both #5. They had a sweet team with great coaches this year. She will definetly play again next year. Saturday after church she had her friend Colbys b'day party. It was a busy but fun weekend. She and four of her friends have cheerleading camp this week at Camden High School. I will definetly post some of those pictures tommorrow when they show us what they have learned. Hope everyone has a great summer. Enjoy spending time with your kiddos!

Memorial Day

2008-06-03T04:57:00.000-07:00

Our friends Austin & Debbie took my family out on the lake in their boat on memorial day.

Brooke loved riding in the tube and swimming. Brady enjoyed sitting in the tube but that was it.

SPRING PROGRAM

2008-05-24T20:31:00.001-07:00

Brooke had her spring program yesterday. Her class sang Zipp a dee doo daa & then all the kindergarten classes sang 1st grade 1st grade together. It was really cute. Then we went back to the class room and watched the class video. We had a little get together for all our family friday night to celebrate. Heath & I finally got her the vera bradley bookbag she has been wanting for months. Thanks to Sheri she got the lunch box for her birthday & has wanted the book bag to match ever since. She was so excited and since she had a great year it was worth it. Only one more week of school left and hopefully things will slow down & we can enjoy the summer.

Splash Day!

2008-05-22T20:40:00.000-07:00

Last friday Brookes class had splash day. The fire dept. even came and sprayed them with the fire hose and the had sno cones and other games. That afternoon her class had an end of the year party at Bounce Around. Tommorrow morning is her end of the year program. She already said mom, when I sing then you watch the video you are really gonna cry. I am sure she is right.

Mothers Day

2008-05-12T17:21:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a great mothers day weekend! Heath finally got home friday after spending a week in Vegas for work. He and the kids gave me some nice flowers for the porch and some money for mothers day. We had his parents over for dinner saturday night and took my mom to chilis sunday after church. I am thankful for the opportunity to be a mom and very thankful for the mom I was blessed with. It was a nice weekend!

Field Day & Sparkleberry fair

2008-04-29T07:36:00.001-07:00

Brooke had field day at school on thursday. She won 2nd place for the shoe toss. Saturday morning was her game and they lost for the first time but she played very well. Heaths mom took them after the game to the Sparkleberry fair. My mom picked them up after that and kept them till 12:30 am when we got home from the Kenny concert. We had a great time and the concert was good. I think Sheri & I enjoyed watching people just about as much as we liked watching the concert. I think they put all the rednecks in our area. Sunday we went to church & Allyson Power birthday party at Bounce around.

Brady & yard work

2008-04-23T08:16:00.001-07:00

When I look back at my posts I feel like poor Brady doesn't get talked about much. I guess because he is younger and doesn't go to school, sing in choir or play ball. So, I will feel better if I post something about him. This picture of him in when he was playing outside catching and torchering caterpillars. He picked out his own outfit and said it matched because it was all camo.

I have learned some things with him are just not worth fighting over. If we were going to be leaving the house that day then it would have been a different story. We worked in the yard well, Heath worked in the yard sunday afternoon and told the kids he would give them a penny for every pinecone they picked up. Poor kids worked hard and earned maybe 50 cents. I took them to the dollar store on monday and let them pick out something. Its so easy when they are this young.

MORNING SHOW, BASEBALL & DISNEY ON ICE

2008-04-22T18:28:00.000-07:00

Ok, its been awhile since I blogged so I can't remember what all has happened since then. Brooke was on the morning show one day last week because she sold cookie dough & her name was put in for the drawing and she won. She picked a shrek hat that I have not even seen since she won. She has baseball games every saturday morning and they have won the first two games. We are so proud of her and so glad she doesn't have my coordination when it comes to sports. We went to Disney on Ice friday night with Colby from school and had a great time. They did mess up our suite when we got there the blue cross suite was closed and we had to get moved. The lady said she was so sorry and I said well for Kenny tickets I will forgive you and just laughed well ten minutes later she came back with 4 lower level tickets (the expensive ones) so we are going to see Kenny this weekend. I am so excited. Saturday night we went to a magic show with Marc & Sherri and the kids. Brady laughed so much that is was totally worth going. Brookes choir sang in church sunday and did a great job. Ok, I think that sums it up for the last two weeks. Hope everyone is enjoying this warmer weather. I know we are.

Brooke finally got her ears pierced!!!

2008-04-08T19:29:00.000-07:00

Thursday night while we were at Columbiana Mall Brooke said I think I want to pierce my ears. She always chickens out but I figured we could atleast walk in there. Well, there was a 4 year old getting it done & she said if she doesn't cry I will do it. I figured she would cry but she didn't so Brooke got up there and was so nervous I almost made her get down but they pierced them at the same time. She didn't cry & even said I should have done that a long time ago. She couldn't wait to go to school friday and show all the girls in her class. ( you have to look real close at the pictures to see them)

Friday night we went to the tough man competition with Marc, Sherri and the kids. That was definetly interesting and both of the kids fell asleep while we were there. We looked like a bunch of rednecks with our kids asleep in our laps and still there at 11:30pm watching people box.

Saturday we cleaned up and got ready for the painter who painted our living room yesterday and today. Saturday night we went to the George Strait concert with Marc, Sheri, Chad, Julie, one of Heaths friends from work and his friend. We had a great time.

Tonight Brooke had a scrimmage and they won. She hit the ball twice and scored two runs. Their first game is this saturday.

I am having a yard sale with my sister if it doesn't rain as well saturday. If anyone needs toys, double jogging stroller, furniture just let me know. We might can hook you up.

Easter

2008-03-25T06:58:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a great easter. We went to church and out to eat with my family then to Heaths grandmas for the afternoon. The easter bunny was very good to the kids. We are enjoying spring break this week!

Check out my Slide Show!

2008-03-25T06:27:00.001-07:00

Field Trip & 2 more egg hunts

2008-03-22T21:12:00.000-07:00

Wednesday we went on a field trip to the zoo with Brookes school. Thursday she had her egg hunt with her class at school and then got to leave after lunch to start her spring break. Friday Heath took off and we took the kids to Frankies to play putt putt and ofcourse we had to do a little shopping while we were there. We dyed eggs with the kids friday night and went to Sherris church hunt this morning then Brooke had ball practice. Brooke asked me before she went to bed where the Easter bunny lived before I could answer Brady told her the north pole. She then asked how a bunny could deliver stuff and was it just someone dressed up. Wasn't really sure how to answer either question. Brady said he hopes that the easter bunny brings him a 4 wheeler since Santa didn't. He might be a bit disappointed in the morning. Hope everyone has a great Easter!!

Easter Egg Hunt & singing

2008-03-17T05:54:00.000-07:00

We had our church easter egg hunt saturday morning and the kids had a great time. Brooke was suppose to go to a birthday party at the gymnastics place at 1 but her ball practice got moved to 1:30 so she had to go that instead since we missed practice last week. She is playing for Mckenzie Furniture & I must say she looks adorable out there practicing. After practice we went shopping since she couldn't go to Matthews party and Hanks got cancelled as well since he was sick. We went to get the kids some summer clothes. Brooke got some really cute dresses and sketchers. Poor Brady got 6 Polo shirts and a few pair of khaki & blue shorts. Just not much out there for little boys.

Luckily we got home about an hour before the storm hit. As soon as it started hailing Brooke screamed I want my memaw so ofcourse my parents came over and my sister and her husband since they are now only four houses up from us. We hung out in the dark and then went and ate hotdogs at the church since it had power. Sunday Brookes choir sang their easter songs in church. Hope every has a great week.

parties, trip & 6 year old check up

2008-03-12T12:46:00.000-07:00

So I get a nice new expensive camera for Christmas & I never take pictures anymore. I don't know why but I never take my camera anywhere anymore. This is a picture of the kids from 2 easters ago. Last year Brooke was sick on easter & didn't get to go to church. Well, friday night Heath had a nice marketing banquet at Columbia Metro. It was a blue cross thing and we had great food. Well, he ended up winning Marketing Service Rep for the year for P.A.I. He and I were both shocked since he has only been in the job since May. Well he won 2,500 dollars & a trip to Spain or Aruba this time next year. We are not sure which one yet but just excited because next March will be our ten year anniversary so can't beat a free trip somewhere nice for your 10 year anniversary. Saturday morning we went to Cathryn Ogles b'day party, then a funeral at church then Kendels Barretts birthdays party and then out to eat at Carabas with Heaths parents. It was a busy weekend but a good one. We have our easter egg hunt this saturday morning at 10:30. If anyone wants to come you are welcome to come. We hunt eggs, play games, and eat lunch. We have been busy this week getting prepared for that. Brooke had her 6 year old check up tuesday. Her eyes were good which she was bummed about that as she thinks she wants glasses for some reason. She was in the 50th% percentile for weight & 5th percentile for height, poor thing! I Hope everyone is having a good week.

Birthday pictures

2008-02-25T19:36:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Brooke

2008-02-25T17:29:00.000-08:00

I still can not believe it was six years ago today that I gave birth to Delaney Brooke Ward.

We had a very busy birthday weekend. Friday night my brother, sister in law and nephew came up so we all had dinner at my parents and then went and set up the gym for her party. Saturday we had a pizza party at the gym and Brooke had over twenty friends and family attend. Even her best friend from Charleston came for her party. She got a bunch of nice presents including a Vera Bradley lunch box and smocked clothes ( my favorite). She also got lots of Hannah Montana stuff which is her favorite. Saturday night it was back to my moms for another free dinner (lol!) and ofcourse a chance to spend more time with my nephew. Sunday night in childrens choir they sang Happy Birthday to Brooke and Mrs. Lisa made her a barbie cake. Today at school she got to be the helper for her birthday and we got to bring Buddy Bear home with us.

Heath & I went and ate lunch with her at school although she really didn't want us to & I got hot pink cupcakes from Walmart that was shaped like a six. We brought McKenna home with us after school and I took them to McDonalds to play on the playground. We let her pick where we ate dinner and she picked Western Sizzlin. I am not sure why since we have been there maybe twice in 5 years but we couldn't change her mind. After we got home we let her open her present from us which was Heelys. She was very excited because she has wanted them for a long time.

It was a good birthday weekend for her and that is truly what its all about.

Happy Valentines Day!

2008-02-14T19:06:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone had a great Valentines Day. Brooke came home with all kinds of stuff from her party at school today. Both of the kids had parties in their classes at church last night as well so we have lots of cards and candy. My parents offered to keep the kids tonight so we took them up on it. We had dinner at Wild Wings and shopped. Heath did good this year. He got me a vera bradley purse and wallet and I didn't even hint around about it. He called my sister about it and she told him she thought it was a good idea. He said it was hard to top the 2 dozen roses & Rascall Flatts/Sugarland tickets he got me last year. Sadly to say I didn't do as good for him. I just got him a few little things but he has me so really what more could he ask for, ha, ha!!!No, He is a great husband and a wonderful father. I love him and he truly is my best friend. Enough of that, I ended up taking Brooke to the dr. yesterday morning after she was up almost all night the night before and she also has an ear infection. They are on antibiotics and doing great now. Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Valentines

2008-02-12T17:51:00.000-08:00

A friend sent me this and I thought it was worthing sharing. Hope everyone is having a good week so far. Brady went to dr. today and has double ear infection and Brooke went to bed tonight crying with an ear ache so she will get to go to dr. in the morning.

Eternal Love

He doesn't bring me roses but He is called the Rose of Sharon.
He doesn't send flowers to my office but He grows beautiful flowers in my garden.
He doesn't kiss me but I sense His kiss when I feel sunshine or softly falling rain.
He doesn't give me sparkling diamonds to wear but the stars He set in the sky shine even more brilliantly. He doesn't whisper in my ear but His still small voice is ever with me. He isn't a valentine who has pledged lifelong love but He is Eternal Love. He demonstrated it Not by gifts or well-intentioned promises but by offering Himself as the fulfillment of promise. Not by standing with me at the wedding altar but by placing Himself on the altar. That I may know life That I may know Him and love Him forever.

Hannah Montana & Monster Trucks

2008-02-06T08:37:00.000-08:00

Friday night we went to Five Guys and to Hannah Montana 3D movie. Brooke really enjoyed it. I am kind of scared because the little girls in front of us were probley 8 or 9 and when the Jonas Brothers were singing they were going crazy clapping and waving their hands in the air. I am not sure I am going to be able to handle Brooke acting that way in a few years. Saturday Heath & Brady went to the Monster Truck show with Marc & the boys. Brooke went to upward basketball with a girl from church. Sheri and I shopped all day without kids. You forget how nice that is. Heath said Brady enjoyed the show except 15 minutes into it her said he was ready to go.

Brady has been doing so good at night and has slept in his bed all night the last two nights. At three I know he should have been doing this all along but in three years he has not slept all night long but maybe five or six times. He normally wakes up three or four times for apple juice. Well last month after some very long nights he has stopped doing it but still ended up in our bed during the night but has been doing great. I am just hoping it sticks. My new camera card is having issued with uploading so this is old but one of my favorites of the kids.

update

2008-01-29T18:25:00.000-08:00

It has been such a busy week. We had revival at church last Sunday - Wednesday night which was great. Thursday night we had a Kindergarten parents class and friday I had a funeral for one of the ladies I use to work with at state farm. We were suppose to go see George Strait Friday night but I was kind of glad it got cancelled as we were pretty worn out from the week. Saturday we had Kylies birthday party at the young gymnast which the kids loved. They now want to take gymnastics but that won't be happening right now. Sunday we had another funeral and I have another one this thursday for Jenny Gilbos sister. Jenny used to live in our neighborhood and was in our bible study group before she moved. Three funerals in one week is pretty depressing but it helps me to stop and realize how fragile life is and how we are never promised tomorrow. Well, Brookes E.N.T. appt went well last week and we had to go back today for the cat scan. The dr. thinks it might be allergies or reflux. He put her on zyrtec and nasal spray for right now. He said it could also be the onset of asthma. I developed asthma when we moved here from Charleston so he just wants to see her back in three weeks and see how she is. She hasn't been coughing as bad but she is still snorting bad. Poor thing sounds like a little piggy. Anyways, hope everyone is having a great week. This picture is a year old but I don't like posting without a picture and I haven't uploaded pictures in a week. I have been going through old pictures to get together for Brookes party and its neat just to see how much they have grown up.

Bunco

2008-01-22T08:53:00.000-08:00

Had a great time at Bunco friday night. Heath and Marc took the kids to the circus but could not talk him into taking the camera and getting pictures for me. Saturday we cleaned out the kids toy boxes. We ended up with 3 bags of trash and 4 bags we took to the goodwill. To bad Brookes birthday is next month and we will be back to overflowing toy boxes again. Brooke went to the dr. yesterday since she has been barking and snorting all the time. Dr. Carlton said her throat & nose were so swollen she has to go the e.n.t. today at 3pm. They are gonna scope her nose, do chest xrays and see whats going on. If you read this before then say a little pray for her (and me) it took three of us to hold her down for her flu shot last year.

Horse riding, Edventure & Leapin Lizards

2008-01-16T07:12:00.000-08:00

Last wednesday night was camo night at awanas. Who would have thought Brookes Christmas present to Heath and Brady would come in handy so soon. She bought those hats for them at the awana store for Christmas.

Friday Brooke rode home with Colby (her friend from school). They live on a horse farm in Camden so she got to ride horses and even lead Colby. Brady & I were even invited so he rode as well but made me hold his hand the whole time. Saturday morning Wendy called and invited us to Edventure with her and Laurie and the kids. We had a good time then had a picnic at Finley park afterwards. Yesterday since school was out we went to Leapin Lizards with Laurie & the kids. Its over on Forest Drive and is pretty much like Bounce around. They have the inflatables, a train table, kitchen set, puppet area, dress up area. The kids had a blast and then crashed early last night. We had a great long weekend. Is anyone else having trouble getting pictures to upload or stay in an order? It took forever for these to upload, oh well!! Hope everyone is having a good week.

Trampoline

2008-01-08T10:41:00.000-08:00

The kids are enjoying the new trampoline. I forgot how much fun they are but I am so out of shape that is wears me out. The kids don't want to jump unless I get on. They like the extra 110 lbs. that jumps them up ( ok so maybe the 110 lbs is not true but its a new years resolution I am working on - just wishful thinking I guess - ha!) anyways they like to just sit and let me do all the work popping them up. Anyways we are enjoying it. Hope everyone is having a great week and getting back into the routine after the holidays.

Oops - I just realized this was the day it was really cold last week so yes Brady has on Brookes hat, mittens and scarf and old jacket, oh well!!

Illinois

2008-01-02T06:10:00.000-08:00

We left thursday night for an eleven hour ride to Illinois. The kids did really good traveling and slept most of the trip there. We had a suprise birthday party for my grandmother on saturday for her 8oth. This was our first trip to Illinois in over six years. Brooke got to meet her cousin Allison for the first time and they had a great time. We got home monday morning at 5am.

We had a great time and the kids did so good but I was glad to be home. Since we didn't get home until 5am we were in bed by midnight on New Years Eve. We went to his grandmothers and the guys played poker and we played bingo. Heath is off this week which is so nice.

Yesterday we never left the house. Heath and his dad (and Brady) put up the trampoline, Brooke went to the movies with a friend and I cleaned out the kids closets and toy boxes to try to make room for all this stuff. Hope everyone has a great year in 2008!!

Christmas Morning

2007-12-27T11:05:00.001-08:00

I am finally getting to take a minute to post. We had a great Christmas this year. Christmas eve we ate Waffle House with my parents as it was one of the only places open at 5pm. We woke the kids up around 7:30 Christmas morning they opened all the presents from us and santa then Heaths parents came over at 8:30 and they opened up a bunch more presents from them, Heaths aunts and uncles and Heaths grandma. They were most excited about the trampoline.
We had lunch at his grandmothers then we went to my parents to open up the gifts from them and all my family and had dinner. We are still trying to figure out where all the presents are going to go.

Buddy & Parties

2007-12-24T12:15:00.001-08:00

Wednesday Brooke had snack day at school so that meant she brought Buddy Bear home which is one of her favorite things. He got to go to the Birthday party for Jesus with her Wednesday night. Thursday at school they had a little program for parents. Heath and I enjoyed that. Saturday night The Hansons had their Christmas party. They had train rides and you could sit on Santas lap. We had a great time. Lara and the kids came up from Charleston and the Morgans came from Alabama. Brady and Heath are golfing right now and Brooke is Christmas shopping with my dad. I should probley get back to cleaning. I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas!!

Our Angel & Santa

2007-12-17T19:24:00.000-08:00

Sunday Brookes choir did their performance in church and she was a sweet little angel. They did a great job. After church Sunday night we went to the train guy with my parents and some people from church. We took a hayride and Brady sat on Santas lap. This Santa did not say a word, did not ask what he wanted, did not say hello or ho ho ho. It was really wierd but atleast we got a picture. We have a Christmas party at California Dreamin tomorrow night, a party for Jesus Wednesday night at Awanas, Thursday we have Brookes Christmas Party at school and two Christmas parties on Saturday. I will try to post some of those over the weekend. Hope everyone is enjoying the Season and the true meaning of Christmas. If you ask Brooke she says the best part is the presents. My dad is so proud, lol!!!

Crazy Hair Night & Horse Ride

2007-12-11T13:00:00.001-08:00

Last Wednesday night was crazy hair night at awanas. Heath also helps but is way to cool or so he thinks to participate. We had our church Christmas party friday night and had a great time.

Saturday night we went and ate with John, Laurie and the kids at Wild wings and rode the horse at Sandhills. We stood in line for almost two hours and we were lucky enough to be the last ride of the night at 9:15pm. I am glad because the kids would have been pretty upset if they wouldn't have been able to ride. I tried to take some pictures of the kids Sunday for our christmas cards. I went ahead and made an appt at Portrait Innovations for the 20th since I couldn't get them to look at me and smile (a real smile) at the same time. That was the first after school appt they had so I might get the cards out on time this year or not. Hope everyone is having a good weekend and getting excited about Christmas despite this crazy weather.

What a Week!!

2007-12-04T08:49:00.000-08:00

Well, the kids and I were in an accident last tuesday that was my fault. I pulled out in front of a girl that actually goes to my church. I did not see her and well anyways thank goodness the kids were alright. Its also a good thing I started working at a body shop a few weeks ago.

We were actually on the way to James Ervin to look at a Tahoe since the lease on my jeep is almost over. Ofcourse nothings gone wrong in two years on the jeep and right before its due back I wreck it. This was really hard on me at first because it was Brookes door that got hit and I keep thinking what could have happened but God truly had a hedge of protection around us because it could have been alot worse and the kids were not injured. ANYWAYS,

Our good friends the Morgan leave for Alabama in the morning so we had a girls sleepover friday night and Brooke and I had a great time. It was Brookes first sleepover and she made me lay with her until she fell asleep but it was still worth it. We went to see the lights at Saluda Shoals friday night & went to Kaylas birthday party saturday morning at Build a Bear. Laurie took all of the "CobbleStone Kids" pictures together one last time before they leave. We also had a pot luck for them as well last night. Luckily Ana had to create a blog for online classes and now is going to make one for all the girls to keep in touch, right Ana????? Hope everyone has a good week!!

Park, Pow Wow and Thanksgiving

2007-11-26T05:52:00.000-08:00

Since Brooke was out of school Wednesday and the weather was so nice I took the kids to the park for a picnic and then we went and joined the library. Brooke has to read for 15 minutes every night and so we were tired of reading the same books all the time. I also included her as an indian when they had pow wow day tuesday at school. The other picture is of them on thanksgiving morning before we went to Heaths grandmas for lunch. Trying to get some good pictures of them together before I order the grandparents calendars for Christmas. Hope everyone had a great thanksgiving. Sheri and I did the black friday thing and left her house at 4:30 am and didn't finish up till after 3pm but I did get alot done. We had a good but busy weekend so it flew by. The kids have been decorating the tree for the past two days so I will attach those photos when I get a chance. Hope everyone has a good week!

Parties

2007-11-14T09:15:00.001-08:00

This new job is keeping me from blogging these days & I only work two days a week. Actually its just I hate taking the time to upload my pictures which is just lazy!!! I love the job.
Pictures are of Caroline & Jacksons party two weekends ago and Sadie & Coles birthday parties from that same weekend. We also went to a hockey game with friends from church. This past weekend the girls had the Operation Christmas Child party. With all the money from the lemonade stands and donations we were able to make 42 shoes boxes. The goal was 21 so we are very proud and very excited about that. Wach Fox came out to the party saturday night and the girls were on the 10pm news again. Brookes school had a book parade and they had to wear rain gear for the book Franklin & the Thunderstorm. She is the one in the ladybug boots. In the class picture shes the one with the butterfly on her dress. The real cute one, lol!! Hope everyone is having a great week.

Field Trip & Trunk or Treat

2007-11-02T17:45:00.001-07:00

Tuesday we went to Hermitage Baptist Church for a field trip with Brookes class. The kids had a great time decorating a pumpkin, listening to a story, taking a hayride and having snack.

Wednesday night we had trunk or treat at church. I asked Julie to take pictures for me since I had to help get things set up. Well, I got a few pictures of the kids and a whole bunch of pictures of Julie with the kids, Julie with other peoples kids, Julie by herself. Sorry Julie but its the truth.

We also went trick or treating at Mrs. Poetas house.

We had over a hundred kids come to trunk or treat and had over thirty people decorate their trunks. It was a good night.

Last night we went to the Hansons to let the kids make smores and just hang out since there was no school today. I also started a part time job today and it went really well. I am only working two days a week and its only 8-10 hours a week and the pay is great so I am excited.

Its at Palmetto Paint & Body in Camden. I wasn't looking for a job but when Sara asked me about it and told me I could work whenever I wanted what ever hours I wanted I figured I would give it a try. My mom is going to keep Brady one day a week and Julie is going to keep him on fridays since she is off on fridays. I guess we will see how it goes. Hope everyone has a great weekend.

Carnival, Birthday Party & Singing

2007-10-29T20:25:00.000-07:00

We took the kids to Blaney Elementarys little carnival Saturday afternoon. We got there an hour before it ended so they didn't get to do everything but they did get to ride a horse and just in a few of the inflatables. We also went to Calebs 3rd birthday party on the lake. We had a great time on the paddle boat & the kids enjoyed fishing and the baby turtle we found. Brookes little choir sang Sunday morning which is always very cute and entertaining. Also, Brooke is a pop corn winner which means she has learned all her popcorn words for school. She is like the 7th or 8th kid in her class to learn all forty something of them. I am very proud of her!! We go to the pumpkin patch with her class tomorrow then Trunk or Treat at church Wednesday night so should have some cute pictures to post. Hope everyone has a great halloween.

Bunco, Boo @ the Zoo & Buddy Bear

2007-10-22T08:51:00.000-07:00

Friday night I went to Bunco at Rachels house. Although Sheri & I didn't think we were ever gonna get there once we did we had such a great time. I can not wait till Novembers. Saturday night we took the kids to Boo @ the Zoo & Heaths parents went with us. The kids got like 8 pieces of candy each but they did have a good time. I must say they were the cutest spider & flower I have ever seen, lol! Brooke had Buddy Bear from school this weekend that is what she is holding in her costume picture. She was so excited to have him for a weekend but that excitement had worn off by saturday. Hope everyone has a great week!

The State Fair & Dads new ride

2007-10-16T18:18:00.001-07:00

We took the kids to the fair saturday since Brooke said all the kids at school have been. It was hot but not really crowded like I thought it would be. The kids chose a roller coaster as the first ride. Well, I told Brady I thought it was a bad idea that it would be to fast for him and he said no it not I won't cry. Well, less then 10 seconds in to the ride he was screaming and the guy had to stop the ride. You can see him crying in the picture. It was funny because when he stopped the ride two other little boys chose to get off as well. He then decided after that he was not riding anything which Brooke said good that leaves more tickets for me. It took forever to go thru all the tickets when her rides only take 2 so I started riding some with her just to get rid of them. Brady did atleast enjoy petting a donkeys tail & peeling his corn dog just to get to the hot dog. We were there for several hours but the kids had a great time and Heath & I ate until we were miserable.

This month is pastor appreciation and the church suprised my dad with a new camry on sunday. It was needed since the truck they got him six years ago has almost 200, 000 miles on it. For those of you who pass the office on Wildwood Lane you can see it parked out there next to his secretarys white camry. He definetly deserved it. I am so proud and lucky to have a dad who truly loves the Lord with ALL his heart and serves him no matter what but yet has a sense of humor and a dorky side to him at the same time. Dad, I know you read these so I had to add the dorky part just so you don't get a big head.