Messages From The Muellers

Cooking with Cooper

2012-01-27T09:22:00.008-06:00

**Sorry, for some reason blogger is adding all this extra space and not letting me move things like I want to. SO annoying! **

Lately, to get some quality time with Cooper, he has been helping me in the kitchen. He loves to cook with me and I love having him helping me.
The other night we made a great recipe I found on Jamie's blog. (You should go check her blog out....love it!)

Crispy Cheddar Chicken

www.jamiecooksitup.blogspot.com

Time: 15 minute prep + 45 minutes baking
Yield: 7 servings
Recipe from adapted from What's Cookin' Chicago via Pinterest

Chicken:
4 large chicken breasts
2 sleeves Ritz crackers
1/4 t salt
1/8 t pepper
1/2 C milk
3 C cheddar cheese, grated
1 t dried parsley

Sauce:
1 14 ounce can cream of chicken soup
2 T sour cream
2 T butter

1. Cut each chicken breast into 3 large chunks.
2. In a small food processor grind up the ritz crackers. (Cooper just crunched them up by hand)

3. Pour the milk, cheese and cracker crumbs into 3 separate small pans. Toss the 1/4 t salt and 1/8 t pepper into the cracker crumbs and stir the mixture around to combine.
4. Dip each piece of chicken into the milk then the cheese and finally the cracker crumbs.

5. Spray a 9x13 pan with cooking spray and lay the chicken inside the pan.
6. Sprinkle the dried parsley over the chicken.
7. Cover the pan with tin foil and bake at 400 degrees for 35 minutes. Remove the tin foil, bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the edges of the chicken are golden brown and crispy.
8. Into a medium sized sauce pan combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream and butter with a whisk. Stir it over medium high heat until the sauce is nice and hot. Serve over the chicken.

Cooper was so proud to serve it to Daddy! It was delicious!! Definitely something I plan to make again!

The other thing that Coops always helps me make is mashed potatoes. (No special recipe just lots of butter, some milk, salt and pepper) He loves them and begs to have them nearly every night. =) They went great with the chicken.

Here he is making them...

In true Cooper style, he changed his shirt in the middle of cooking.
Oh and he has a huge, not-so-cute tattoo on his arm. =)

I love this boy so much and it is so nice to find a way for us to have some special time!!
Love my little chef!!!

The training wheels are off!

2012-01-23T22:00:00.010-06:00

On Saturday morning, Cooper was determined to ride his bike without his training wheels. So Cody took them off of the bike, helped Cooper on and Cooper took off. It was awesome! He did great!! He was so excited!! So proud of him!

Love my handsome ~~little~~ big bike rider!!!!

Colton's Birthday Party

2012-01-22T23:00:00.005-06:00

Colton turned 9 last Sunday but his party was yesterday. It was a Sonic the Hedgehog theme at Laser Legend and it was so much fun! Colton has some really great friends and I am so glad they all made it. They all seemed to have a great time!
Laser Legend does a great job with parties. You show up and each guest gets a card for the arcarde. They play games for awhile, then they play a game of Laser Tag, then they have pizza, then play another game of Laser Tag, then they have cake. It runs smoothly, the kids stay busy and have a blast!!
The best for me was that the birthday boy had fun and felt special!! Love my big 9 year old!!

Getting ready to go into play Laser tag

Cooper and Colton with their cousins Landon and Luke

Hayden, the birthday boy, Brayden and Luke

Cooper and Ian

My nephew Luke

Carter and my nephew Grady--how cute are they?

Colton and his buddy Luke

Cooper and Ian

Colton and his cousin Graham

Colton with his great-grandma Nana

Hayden, Cooper, Ian, Colton, Luke and Carter
These three brothers are in school with my big boys. They have all become great friends!!

Our little family. Poor Cooper. He had just had a little meltdown.

First basketball game

2012-01-21T21:00:00.000-06:00

This afternoon was Colton's first basketball game of the season! His team name is the Grizzles and they played really well. Colton did great! He was awesome on defense and after some warm up time, he was getting the hang of being on offense too. My boy was hustlin' out on that court. He was worn out but really enjoyed it! In the Upward league, after each game, each player receives a star for what they contributed best during that game. Colton got the star for defense. Way to go #12!

I love how they pray right before they start.

My boy playing defense

Grabbing some water after a good hustle.

Getting open on offense

The end of the game

Omi, Opi, & Mammy cheered him on (Papa was at the deer lease)

Colton with his biggest fan---Cooper=)

A simple Friday night

2012-01-20T23:35:00.001-06:00

Things tend to pick up speed for us when the Spring semester hits. We start basketball, baseball and the class we lead at church. The weeks go by fast and are fun but exhausting. I am so thankful for the simple, quiet Friday nights at home with no where to go and nothing specific to do. Tonight was one of those nights. We started off in the driveway playing some basketball. Colton and Carter wanted to dunk it. =) (Cooper was riding his scooter)

When we came inside, Cooper and Carter made their own pizzas(Colton passed since he isn't big on pizza). They loved this process complete with aprons and a little commentary from Cooper. He was so funny. He was pretending he was doing a cooking show...."next you add the cheese", "then you put it in the oven", " there you go--yummy pizza!" Carter would copy everything he said. Too cute! Here are my little chefs...

"Tadaaaa"

The evening ended with them all cuddled up watching a movie. (Sorry no pictures of that)

I love quality time at home with my boys!!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

2012-01-18T07:49:00.001-06:00

Happy Wednesday!! Linking up with Jaime for...

I am loving my new blog design! I was desperate to change the pictures in the header and was really ready for a new design. Leslie at Sweetie Baby's Custom Blog Design did it again and she did great! She is awesome to work with!!!

I am loving my new Erin Condren Weekly Life Planner. I love that I was able to have it personalized with pictures on the front and back. I also love that it has tabs and pockets. It is seriously the best planner ever and will surely keep me super organized!! =) She has a great website!! There are so many fun things I want to order next!

Front

Back

I am loving that Colton's basketball season has begun. He has practiced a few times and really likes his teammates and coach. He is playing in the Upward league again because we loved it so much last year. I am looking forward to cheering him on at his first game this Saturday! Should be a great season! Here is a picture of my basketball player last year. He already looks so much older. ;)

I love this sign I found on Pinterest.

Love this man...

Have a wonderful Wednesday everyone!!

Colton's actual birthday

2012-01-16T22:00:00.000-06:00

Here is a little recap of what we did on Colton's actual birthday.
We started with the traditional pancake breakfast.

Making his wish. =)

He opened a few gifts--an Angry bird pillow, a Wii game and some Sonic toys Then we got ready and went to church. Colton got to pick where we ate lunch afterwards and he chose McDonald's. So we ate there and the boys played for a little while.(No pictures there) Then we came home and let Carter nap.

The birthday boy got to choose our evening plans. He chose to eat at his other favorite place, Freddy's Frozen Custard and then we went to see The Adventures of Tin Tin.

His usual--vanilla topped with MnM's.

Ready for the movie to start

It was a really good movie! It was suspenseful, action packed and funny. We all enjoyed it!

When we got home Colton opened his big gift from us....we got his buck mount done and picked up. He was really excited about it.

He had chosen to have the skull painted camo.

Saturday is his party at Laser Legend. He can't wait!

The Wedding

2012-01-15T23:56:00.003-06:00

The whole Mueller Family

My four handsome men!!

As you know by now, Cody's sister got married yesterday! It was a perfect day!! The bride was absolutely BEAUTIFUL!!! Colton and my nephew Graham had the job of lighting the candles in the church, handing out programs and greeting the guests as they arrived at the church. They did great! Cooper and Carter ended up helping with the greeting and programs and they all loved the job!!
Here they are looking oh so handsome...

Colton Wyatt--greeter/candle lighter

Cooper Wiley--Ring Bearer

Carter Wesley- ring bearer

My nephew Graham--greeter/candle lighter

The ceremony went so smoothly and was perfect! Cooper was the ring bearer and took his job so seriously. He did great! He walked down the aisle with our new niece Kendall(Jason's daughter). Carter was also a ring bearer with my nephew Grady and a precious little girl Lyla. They walked down the aisle looking adorable but sat with us as soon as they got down the aisle(that was the plan all along). I couldn't get any pictures of the them all walking down from my spot but hope to add some later from the photographer.

Cooper doing a great job=)

The ring bearer and the Beautiful bride--his Aunt Stacy

Then we headed to the reception! It was at a fun place that was big and rustic but so pretty too. It got a little chilly but everyone had an awesome time!!!

The party can start now

The five of us at the reception

Their first dance as husband and wife---I love this picture!

Colton with the bride

The hubs and I=)

The day was wonderful and the bride and groom were both glowing with happiness!! It was a day filled with lots of family, friends and lots of LOVE!!! We loved being part of it! So happy for Mr. and Mrs. Mikolajzcyk!!

Happy Birthday Colton!

2012-01-15T07:10:00.002-06:00

Today my first baby turns 9!!!! I cannot believe it! I am so thankful for this boy! He makes us so proud each and everyday!

He is a complete rule follower.
His conscience works overtime so he worries a lot but can still be very carefree.
He is so smart and is doing awesome in third grade--straight A's all year.
He is secure enough to do his own thing. If all the other kids are playing a game he doesn't want to play, he will go play by himself. (This will help in the teen years)
He is really easy going.
We always talk about being nice to everyone. When he had to use a few words to describe himself, he said nice. =)
He loves school and is so excited to learn new things.
Lately, he starts lots of conversations with a serious tone and a "Mama- can I talk to you about something?" We have some really great and important conversations these days.
He is still a picky eater but has recently mastered swallowing a vegetable like a pill. =)
He gives the greatest hugs and kisses.
He still thinks out of the box and comes up with some amazing things and ideas.
He has a way of making you feel so special and so loved!
He is a great big brother!!
He still loves music, dancing to a good beat, drawing, playing Wii, his iTouch, riding his scooter and his Mama!

I am so lucky to have this boy! He made me a Mama and continues to make me a proud one! I love you to Pluto and back in real life Colton Wyatt! I thank God for you each day!!

Happy Birthday!!!

Since we have all the fun wedding festivities this weekend his big birthday party will be at Laser Legend next Saturday.

Going to the Chapel

2012-01-13T22:45:00.001-06:00

Tomorrow is the big wedding of Cody's sister, Stacy and her fiance, Jason. Tonight was the rehearsal and it went well. It was followed by a delicious Italian dinner. I cannot wait for tomorrow! I love weddings!! I love everything about them from the dress, to the music, to the cake, to the dinner and dancing. I am so happy for Stacy and Jason! Stacy is going to be a beautiful bride! They are a great match and it is going to be an amazing day! I cannot wait to see my boys all dressed up in their little vests and ties. I assure you, there will be lots of pictures. =)
Here is a picture of my boys with the bride and groom....

What I'm Loving Wednesday

2012-01-11T00:51:00.002-06:00

Happy Wednesday!! I am linking up with Jaime again for...

I am loving that tonight our class, Growing Kids God's Way starts. I love that one of our favorite couples, Clay and Melissa, will be leading it with us this semester!! I love that we are serving in our church and learning so much at the same time!!

I am loving that this weekend Cody's sister will be getting married!! Cooper and Carter are ring bearers, Cody is an usher, I am a reader and Colton will be a candle lighter and passing out programs. It is going to be such a fun, family event!! SO happy for you Stacy and Jason!!!

Love this one of their engagement pictures!

I am loving how much Carter is talking these days! Everything he says is so cute and he just cracks us up all the time. Two and a half is such a fun age. Lately, if I say "Ouch" for any reason, he will run to me and say,
"You k Mama?" Love this boy...

I am loving this sign/saying right now because I pretty much have all of these things...

Wow-- I must be a great mom then!! ;)

What are you loving today?

Papa on TV

2012-01-05T21:00:00.001-06:00

You know that Nyquil commercial where it is pretty much just a guy snoring and then the advertisement plays? Well today when it came on, right away Carter yelled, "Mama---Papa on TV!" Nope the snoring guy doesn't really look like my Dad but my Dad sure can snore! =) I thought it was too cute! Carter really loves my dad and I guess he had his Papa on his mind. =)

Carter and his Papa while they cruised around Disney World in November

Brothers

2012-01-03T22:08:00.006-06:00

I am always telling my boys how lucky they are to have each other. That they always have their best friends to play with right here under the same roof. I know they hear me but they are pretty young to really be listening and grasping just how true that is. Right now both of the big boys adore Carter. They think he is the cutest thing and can't stand to see him upset. Carter adores both of his big brothers too! He followers them around and mimics everything they say and do. I have to remind Colton and Cooper that his little eyes are always watching and his little ears are always listening to them. This quote is so true...

Colton and Cooper being closer in age, no doubt love each other, but they argue a lot. I really think it is because they are sooooooo different. Still I want them to be more tolerant and considerate of each other. They will defend and protect each other from others(which I am so happy about) but they can be so mean to one another. I know it is normal sibling rivalry but it still ~~drives me nuts~~ bothers me.

Anyway, today Cooper was having a rough afternoon again...whiny,grouchy, and pretty difficult. Aftter his third time out, I decided a heart to heart was needed. While he and I were having a serious conversation and I was trying to get the bottom of what has been going on with him, Colton kept lingering in the hallway. He was very concerned about Cooper being in trouble. Finally, I told him to come in. I mentioned that it may help Cooper if he were a little nicer and more patient with him. Colton says, "Oh I know Mama--that is my new year's resolution that I made at school." When Cooper heard this he gave a Colton and big hug and said, " I love you Bubba." I admit it, I teared up a little. =) I love that Colton came up with this goal on his own because it was heavy on his heart. They really are such sweet brothers. I love watching all of my boys together! What an amazing bond the three of them will always share!!

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T13:11:00.000-06:00

Well, it is 2012! So hard to believe another year has come and gone. Is it just me or does the time seem to be going faster?
Anyway, we spent our new year's eve at a party with lots of our great friends. We had such a good time!

The ladies of the party

The men of the party(my boys were playing outside)

Almost all of us had our kids with us and we laughed because people were hauling in pack-n-plays and baby swings. Times have sure changed but we all love where we are at in life.

Poor Carter was enjoying his sparkler but when it was burning out, it touched his finger so he was not happy. "It burned me." Needless to say, he didn't want to do another one. =)

My boys were determined to ring in the new year and actually stay up til midnight so we made everyone nap earlier that afternoon. We did all make it and I got to kiss all four of my boys at midnight!

Happy New Year to you all! I wish you a happy and healthy 2012!!!

The simple things

2011-12-31T14:15:00.001-06:00

Carter had gotten a cute little Lightening McQueen ball pit for his birthday in June but it got a hole in it. The balls from it were constantly everywhere so I decided to take them out to the trampoline. The boys loved this! They had so much fun jumping with them in there and of course having a few small ball fights.

He giggled the whole time and what is better than trampoline hair?!

It is amazing how much laughter and fun those simple, little colored balls brought!
After about an hour of jumping, everyone took a good nap so we could stay up late and countdown to 2012.

Chipwrecked

2011-12-31T09:41:00.003-06:00

Yesterday, we went to see Alvin and the Chipmunks Chipwrecked! My boys love the other two chipmunk movies and were so excited to go see this one. My mom met us there, so that was a bonus. My boys love for Mammy to come along anywhere we go. =) The movie did not disappoint. We all enjoyed it! It had great music too. Colton has already downloaded the soundtrack to his Itouch. We joke around here that Cooper is Alvin, because we have to say his name a lot and he tends to do what is fun before he thinks it through. Colton is Simon because he thinks things through and knows lots of details about everything. Carter is Theodore because he is the baby and is chubby and so cute. We all really liked the movie and of course can't wait to get it when it comes out on dvd.

This picture is not great...it was taken with a phone.

Our day at Sea World

2011-12-29T23:30:00.002-06:00

We are at the end of Christmas break so we are squeezing in all the holiday fun we can. Today we headed to Sea World and had so much fun! The crowds were not bad and the park looked so pretty all decked out for Christmas. My mil brought my nephew Graham which of course made my boys so happy.

Colton, Graham and Cooper skipping through the park =)

We also met my sil Stacy, her soon to be step daughter Kendall and a few of Stacy's friends. A fun little group! Sea World didn't open til noon. I was worried that we may now be able to stay long since Carter would be missing his nap, but he was such a trooper all day. We were able to stay until 7:15. We were all exhausted by the time we left but we had a great day!
We started with seeing the Sesame Street Christmas show...the big boys were sweet and sat through this for Carter. Carter loved it. He got really excited over Cookie Monster.

We also saw the Shamu Christmas...Miracles show. They all loved it. I have to say that it is pretty amazing that such a huge animal can flip itself in the air like that! Awesome!!

Colton and Graham were tall enough to ride a big roller coaster called the Steel Eel and they loved it! Omi took Carter and Cooper to the carnival game area so they could have fun while we rode it.

This is one of the big drops on the coaster.

We went through the Penguin Encounter. The kids loved watching the penguins swim and interact with each other. They are funny little creatures...the penguins and the kids. ;)

Cooper, Carter, Colton, Graham and Kendall watching the penguins

My sweet boys

Then we saw Clyde and Seamore's Countdown to Christmas show. It was so cute!! Everyone loved it!

When the show ended, we went to get a closer look at the sea lions and seals.

There was an super nice expert walking around to answer questions(which my boys had), and we discovered that he had a lot in common with Colton. His name was also Colton, he has two brothers who also have names that start with C and his Dad's name is Cody too. Crazy=) Of course, we had to get a quick picture with him...

After that, we watched the 4D Polar Express Experience. We love that movie and the boys enjoyed the show!

Before we left, we stopped off to see the Dolphins and the Sharks.

Graham, Colton, Cooper and Carter watching the dolphins and trying to "talk" to them.

Inside the Coral reef area

I told them to act like the sharks were gonna get them and this is what I got. Too funny!!

As it started to get dark the park looked so pretty all lit up. We snapped this picture on our way out...

A year later

2011-12-29T09:37:00.000-06:00

This was us last year...

Here are our new family pictures. I love the way they turned out!!

Thanks Misti for capturing us so well! You are the BEST!!

Skating with Friends

2011-12-28T16:23:00.000-06:00

Colton, Cooper and I spent yesterday afternoon/evening at the Rollercade with some friends. (Cody came home early to stay with Carter.) It was a little crowded but so much fun! Colton has really gotten the hang of it and just went off on his own. I even saw him trying to groove to the music as he rolled along. Cooper is doing so much better. He still wants to use the skate mate most of the time but was getting brave at the end. So glad we were able to go and enjoy this evening with some of our good buddies. Thanks for planning this Lynn!!

Our cute group...Hannah, Emily and Gracie
Brooke, Mark, Colton and Cooper

Brothers getting their skate on ;)

Colton and Hannah

Colton working hard

Christmas 2011 recap

2011-12-28T10:20:00.003-06:00

We had a wonderful Christmas! Our boys were up pretty early, Colton first around 6:50, Cooper followed about 7:30 and Carter around 7:45. Then the opening began and they were all thrilled with their gifts.

Carter got a kitchen because he loves to cook for me. He also got lots of Toy Story toys
because he loves Woody and Buzz.

Cooper got the electric scooter he was hoping for, the mohawk helmet , some games, a rc four wheeler and some other fun but random things.

Colton got the ITouch he wanted, an Angry Birds case and an Itunes gift card for it. He also got some
dragon toys, a game, and rc car and some other random and fun stuff.

My hubby and boys gave me the stackable birthstone rings from James Avery. I LOVE them and have been talking about them for a while.

My boys are January(Garnet), April(diamond) and June(Alexandrite) birthdays. Love rings that stack!

We got Cody a camo jacket he wanted. (It is always about hunting for him.)

After we opened the presents we had our traditional pancake birthday breakfast and sang Happy Birthday to Jesus. Then it was so nice because we got to just hang out at home, relax and nap. We headed to my mom and dad's house around 4 and we were all spoiled some more. (somehow-my camera never got used there-grrrrr.) The boys got lots of great stuff! Colton's favorites were his Skylanders Wii set and the rc rat. Cooper's favorite was his electric guitar. Carter's favorite was dancing Mickey/guitar and his shopping cart. My hubby and I were spoiled too with gift cards, Pandora charms(for me), perfume/cologne, hunting gear(for him) and some other fun stuff.

On Monday night, we went and got spoiled yet again at Cody's parents.The boys got lots of fun stuff but Cooper's favorite item was his DS, Colton's favorite was a TV/DVD player for his room and Carter's was his Learn through Music toy. Cody and I got some great stuff too...gift cards and an Ipad.(No pictures here either--shame on me)

It was another year of eating too much delicious food, celebrating with the people we love and remembering the real reason for the season!

Merry Christmas 2011

2011-12-25T01:00:00.003-06:00

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T23:00:00.001-06:00

We went to church and heard a wonderful message. They had a really sweet children's message complete with a live mini horse that all the kids got to pet. I love that the service ended with candlelight and singing Silent Night. After church, our families headed over to our house for dinner. We were missing a few this year due to travel but we still had a good time and a yummy tamale dinner. (Missed you five Hillary.) Everyone headed out early so we could get our little elves to bed.
Here are my boys feeding the reindeer.

Here they are with the snack they left for Santa

And of course in their matching jammies in front of the tree.

It was a great evening! They were so excited for Santa to come!!

Oh here is the gingerbread house we spent the morning making...

Class pets

2011-12-23T15:00:00.002-06:00

One of Colton's teachers texted me the morning of the Christmas party asking if I would be willing to pet sit the class pets for one week of the break. Her class has two guinea pigs and one hamster. I am not a fan of rodent type pets but I figured why not. I knew my boys, especially Colton, would be ecstatic! They were. We brought the three furry friends home on Friday after school and they got tons of attention for the week. My boys woke up eager to get them out of the their cage every morning and spent lots of the day feeding them veggies and holding them.

Colton holding Squeakers

Cooper holding Snowball

Carter wasn't so sure of the little critters. He did giggle at them a bunch and liked to feed them celery. He would also sit by the big boys while they held them but he wasn't all that interested in holding them himself. We did finally manage to get a picture of him with one in his lap. His smile says it all!!

You can tell Colton is making him pet him.

My boys loved having the furry house guests. I enjoyed seeing them take such good care of them but one week was long enough for me. =)

Fabulous ladies

2011-12-22T23:19:00.003-06:00

My mom and I, my Aunt Janet and her daughter Kym and my Aunt Pam and her daughter Shannon, all went to dinner the other night. It has been forever since we did this and it was long overdue. We had such a great time!! We ate at The Melting Pot(a fondue restaurant) which I had never been to but had been wanting to get to for a while now. It was a fun experience and the food was pretty good too. My favorite was of course the dessert course. Nothing better than dipping sweets in chocolate! We laughed so much and had a few conversations that caused a few tears to be shed. Mostly we laughed though! I am so glad we made it a point to get together even though we are all so busy right now. I certainly hope we can make it a more regular thing!! I sure love these fabulous and fun ladies!

1st Cousins
Kym, Shannon and I

My Mama and I--my favorite lady!!

My Aunt Pam and Shannon

My Aunt Janet and Kym

Sisters

See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil
Fun Ladies!!

Bass Pro Shop

2011-12-22T00:31:00.001-06:00

The boys and I spent the morning at Bass Pro Shops with my mil, sil Hillary and three of my nephews. The boys love that store. It is one of those places that you can piddle through and spend so much time just walking around. My boys enjoy looking at the animals and checking out all the fun stuff they have for sale. During the holidays they have some fun activities too. We only did a few because it was kind of crowded but we enjoyed what we did. They have a wildlife carousel that is adorable!

Colton and Cooper played a duck hunting game and really liked it. I love the look of concentration they both had on their faces.

Here are my three monkeys posing in front of the monkeys ;)

A few more monkeys in this next one...my nephews Graham and Grady. =)

In this last one, they were all checking out the fish.

It was fun way to spend a morning with some of our favorite people.

Santa called!

2011-12-20T16:57:00.002-06:00

Last night my boys received their annual call from Santa! (If you have never done this I highly recommend it...www.santaspeaking.com) The boys were so excited to talk to the big guy! Especially Carter. He actually tried to hog the phone a little. When you ask Carter what he wants Santa to bring him, he says "pesents" (presents)--it is adorable! They boys talked about what they are learning at school and what they can work on to stay on the nice list. They all sang Jingle Bells to Santa and did a great job. They were sure to let Santa know that they would leave him milk and cookies and some food for his reindeer. I can't wait to get our recording in the mail!
Here are some more pictures from when my cuties saw and talked to Santa in person...

A little side note that I will delete before I print my blog book: Colton knows the truth about Santa. A girl at school told him and he asked me and he wanted to know the truth. He is a deep thinker and started the conversation with," Mama, I need to talk to you about something." So grown up and serious. (He has been starting a lot of conversations this way lately.) We had a great talk about it and after a few tears on both of our parts, he is now entrusted with the secret. It is so sad to me that that excitement is gone for him but he was so good about our visit to Santa and the phone call. He played along so well and no one would suspect that he is in on the big secret. So proud of the good big brother he is!

Our house at Christmas

2011-12-18T19:02:00.001-06:00

Hi! I am very late to the Christmas home tour that Kelly is having but I figured oh well, better late than never. I love Christmastime and decorating for it is so fun! I have really been enjoying checking out all the wonderful decorations that everyone linked up and shared too. (WOW- some of them look like they belong in a magazine.) SO here is a quick tour of what we have out at our house. Remember that I have a two year old that loves to make his own little adjustments to everything everyday, especially the tree.

Here is the tree and a few on my favorite ornaments...

Excuse the awful cords, I need a different extension cord so I can hide it better.

I added this spray of balls into the bow this year for a little something fun!

We got this one on our honeymoon. It has sand and shells from Nassau, Bahamas.

I really love all the ornaments made by my boys.

Carter and his teachers made this one with his fingerprints at his preschool.

Cooper made this one this year.

Colton made this one when he was in Kinder.

Here is the mantel where the stockings are hung with care...

The baskets on the hearth are full of Christmas books and toys.

A few things on top of our entertainment center. They are usually lit up(even though they are not in this pic) and yes this tv is usually on . =) I have snow globes in the shelves.

Random living room wall.

This guy is on the wall as you walk in the front door.

The table in my entryway. Hard to tell but this stuff is all glittery.

I have this Precious Moments nativity scene out for my boys to play with.

I love my Willow Tree nativity scene but I need to figure out a way to dress it up.

I have these two simple Jim Shore Santas in a niche as you walk into the room.

On the bar in the kitchen

The stove area. It is very simple but this are gets a lot of use so I am not sure what to do here. =)

This wreath hangs on the back door in our kitchen.

This is my boys' bathroom. They have a small tree with little ornaments they picked out. Not much else in there except Santa hand towels and an elf nightlight. Oh and they stuck some clings on the mirror.

LOVE this. It sits on my front porch.

My little reindeer roasting marshmallows with Santa in the front yard. Colton says he is the tall buck, Cooper is the one in the hat and Carter is the smaller one. =)

Okay, that's it for now. ;) Hope you enjoyed your quick tour of our Christmas decorations!! Have a very Merry Christmas!!

Christmas parties

2011-12-17T22:00:00.000-06:00

The boys had their Christmas parties on Friday and I was lucky enough to be able to help with both. (Thanks Mama for keeping Carter so I could be there. He loved his day with you.)
Cooper's party was first. They started in the morning and had stations set up. He made a picture frame(that is where I helped), reindeer food, finger painted an ornament, played Christmas bingo and had homemade donuts. He got to wear his jammies and they watched Polar Express that afternoon.

His teacher, Mrs. Miller, gave each of her students a Christmas book. So sweet!

Mrs. Miller--We LOVE her!!

I had about 45 mins until I need to help set up for Colton's pizza party so I ran and got Cooper some Whataburger for lunch. He was pretty happy about that. =)

Me and my big kindergartner

Coops and his buddy Bobby

Then it was off to Colton's party. They had pizza, decorated sugar cookies, played pin the nose on Rudolph and had a book exchange.

Pinning the nose on Rudolph

Harder than he thought. =)

For the book exchange, his teacher read a short story with lots of "rights and lefts" in it. The boys stood in a circle(the girls had their own circle) and passed the book to to the direction they heard as the story was being read. They got to open the one they were holding when the story was over. It was a fun way to do an exchange.

His gift

Colton with his wonderful homeroom teacher Mrs. Cannon

Me and my big third grader

I had so much fun being there for their parties! I love that are both still so happy to have me there. (I dread the day that that changes.) We are soooooo happy to be out for two weeks!! Yay for Christmas break!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

2011-12-14T07:55:00.004-06:00

Happy Wednesday! Time for...

This Wednesday I decided to share some things I love doing with my kiddos at Christmastime.

First of all, I love this kids Nativity activity called "What God Wants for Christmas". It comes with a book that takes you through the story of Christmas in a kid friendly way. It comes with 7 boxes for the kids to open as you go through the story. In each box there is a piece to a small nativity scene. It even has a small, simple manger area to place the pieces on. The last box is the big surprise...it is a mirror. The book explains that he wants you... to know him, trust in him and love him! Love this!! My boys love the process of reading the story and setting up the nativity. We do this several times in December but always the night of Christmas Eve.

Next, I love http://www.santaspeaking.com/. It is a website where you can go and set up a live call with Santa. You schedule the day and time and fill in lots of information on your kiddos for Santa to talk to them about. It is so fun to put little bits of information that kids are so surprised that Santa knows. You can update up to 24 hours before your call. Another great thing is that you can order a recording of the call. I have done this for the past 4 years and I tear up when I play our past recording and hear Colton singing Jingle Bells to Santa at age 3 years old. The recording come in a ornament to put on the tree.

I love the Elf on the Shelf. In case you haven't seen this, it is a little Elf that comes with a cute book(you can get it most bookstores, Target and Walmart too.) The book tells you the story of the Elf on the Shelf and how he is magic. His job is to watch the kids throughout the day and fly to Santa to give a report each night. So each morning the kids have to find the new spot shows up in. We named our elf Jingleman and my boys love to search for him each day. Here are some of the places Jingleman has been hanging out. =)

I love books in general but I especially love Christmas books. I have two baskets full of Christmas books set out for my boys. One of my favorites is "God Gave Us Christmas." It is a great story!

We have several others in that series of books called, "God Gave Us You" and "God Gave Us Two". They are so sweet!

It is so sweet and there are several others that we like..."God Gave Us You"

and "God Gave Us Two

I love that we sponsor a child through Compassion International--Juan Carlos. We like to send him letters, pictures, a gift(can only be monetary) and our Christmas card. It is awesome to get his letter after Christmas that tells us what he was able to do with the gift we sent. I love including my boys in this. It is very humbling for us all.

This is Juan. Isn't he precious?!

We love Christmas movies around here. Some of our favorites are Polar Express, The Santa Clause 1, 2 and 3, and The Grinch that Stole Christmas. We recently went to see Arthur Christmas and it was super cute and had a good message too.

Okay, that is all for now. Hope you are all enjoying the last few weeks before Christmas! My boys are counting down the days! So excited that they get our for the two week break on Friday!!

Link up with Jamie to share what you are loving today!

The Reindeer Whisperer

2011-12-13T23:00:00.001-06:00

Tonight was Colton's third grade Christmas program. It was called, "The Reindeer Whisperer." Colton played the role of Herbie the Elf. (Yes-like the elf on Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.) He had to walk up and say, " I want to be a dentist" several times in a cute way. It got some giggles like it was supposed too. He was a little nervous but he did a great job making us proud as usual. The whole group sang several cute songs and sounded really good. We were all pretty impressed. It was a super cute program!

Here he is singing the one slow, sort of serious song.

Cute elves--Colton and my nephew Graham

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2011-12-12T07:38:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday to my Daddy! He is such an amazing Dad and Papa! He is superman to our family! I am sooooo lucky to be his daughter!

Pictures with Santa

2011-12-11T00:35:00.001-06:00

We saw Santa really early this year. I love that because I was able to get the pictures displayed early! Anyway, what a difference a year makes! Carter loved Santa! He calls him Ho-Ho and he gets very excited over everything involved with Ho-ho. Let me remind you of Carter's visit with the big guy in red last year...

Poor baby! Thank goodness this year was so much better!

My big boys were their usual professional selves...=)

He asked for an electric scooter and an electric guitar.

He asked for an Ipod Touch.

I got the group shot I was hoping for too. Makes this Mama so happy!

I LOVE my boys!!

A field trip and a Christmas program

2011-12-08T22:24:00.001-06:00

Today was a fun day!! Cooper had his first field trip. It was at the Children's Museum and he had a great time! I was able to be there to follow him around and enjoyed snapping some pictures of him.

I had to leave a little bit early to make it to see Carter's preschool Christmas program, "Happy Birthday Jesus!" It was adorable! Carter's class of two year olds sang two cute songs. My little man was so funny! He sang a little, jumped up to come get me a little, stood up and looked around a little and did a few precious little motions. Of course, I teared up a little. =) The bigger kids did such a great job with the sweet program and wonderful message.

Here is my favorite picture...we were saying a prayer!

When Carter and I left the program, we picked up lunch for my big boys and raced back to the school to eat with them. They were surprised and happy to see us! Such a fun and busy day!
I love being a Mama and I feel so lucky that I am able to be everywhere they want me to be!!!

Disney World--Finally!!

2011-11-30T21:00:00.001-06:00

So, so sorry. It has taken me so long to get these pictures downloaded and somewhat organized. Be ready for lots and lots of pictures. There are so many more(I took about 800) but I tried to choose the best ones to post. I also had to make them post in November because I wanted it to be accurate for my blog book for the boys. =)

~~The Surprise~~
So we picked up the boys from school as soon as they were counted present. They had no idea why they were leaving early and certainly no idea that we were heading to Disney World. Their teachers were so excited and were in on the surprise. They walked them out of the school where our car was shoe polished with "Disney World bound" on the window, my Mama had fun balloons, she and I had on Minnie Mouse ears, Carter had a Mickey hat on and my hubby was ready to video.

The hubs and I waiting in the foyer of the office

Once we saw them round the corner, we went outside. The boys came out the door and I said, " Hey, we're going to Disney World, wanna come?" They were shocked and seemed a little bit confused.

As we were driving to the airport, they were starting to get excited!!

I don't think they really got it until we got to our hotel. They were so happy to be there! They loved it!! Our area was Toy Story themed and had the hugest Woody, Buzz and and other characters from the movies. They literally ran to climb on them every time we went to or from our room. =)

It was already late, so that was our first Disney day! We hit the sack so we could get an early start the next morning.

Hollywood Studios

2011-11-30T20:59:00.000-06:00

We started our first full day of magic at Hollywood Studios. The Disney Junior show was our first stop. Carter watches some of these shows and the big boys were sweet and played along. We were the first family in line so we were the "VIP" family. Turns out all that meant was that we sat in the first row. It was a good spot though!=)

We spent a lot of time in the Pixar area is right up my boys' alley. They loved the Toy Story Mania ride and we were all able to ride it. They also loved seeing Woody and Buzz. Carter is especially into Toy Story right now and my big boys have loved it for years so this was awesome.

This army man was so funny. They boys thought he was a statue and Carter was stepping on his foot. The army guy jumped and scared Carter. It was so funny but that is why Carter is on the edge of the picture. =)

Here are the boys ready to get on the Toy Story Mania ride.

Landon and Colton

Luke and Cooper

My riding buddy Carter

There is a "Honey is Shrunk the Kids" area. They had the best time running through there.

This picture cracks me up!

The Pixar parade was so cute and full of fun characters! It was a great way to end our time at Hollywood Studios!

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

2011-11-30T20:58:00.001-06:00

On Friday night, my parents treated us to tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas party! It was at Magic Kingdom. They close the park and if you have these tickets to get back in. It was magical and made us all start getting into the Christmas spirit!

The castle looks BEAUTIFUL!!

The fireworks show is spectacular! I have never seen a display like it!! Here are a few of my favorites from it!

The evening wrapped up with a fun and festive parade! The kids loved it and so did we!

Cooper, Colton and Landon

Luke, Cooper and Carter

Carter waved constantly! He loved seeing the characters go by. I LOVED watching him do this!

Of course Santa ended the parade.

This was such a fun event! I am so glad we were able to be there one of the nights this was taking place. Disney is even better at Christmastime!

Animal Kingdom

2011-11-30T20:58:00.000-06:00

The whole gang!

Just us five

We headed to Animal Kingdom and started our day at Donald's Safari Breakfast. The buffet was delicious and we got to meet lots of our favorite characters.

We loved the Safari ride we took.

Then we went to the Lion King show. It was fabulous!! The best part was that Cooper and my nephew Landon got to be part of the show. They were given little shakers and went around the auditorium dancing and making their music. It was so cute!!

That evening we headed to Downtown Disney for dinner at the T-Rex restaurant. It was such a fun place.

Once we finished our yummy meal, we strolled and shopped around Downtown Disney. It looked so pretty but it was very crowded.

My boys love Mr. Potato Head. They will play with it for hours. The store there has such a fun setup. You can buy all the parts, ones you can't get in normal stores, and fill a box for $20 bucks. Loved it!

The Lego store there is insane. There are shelves and shelves of Legos in every theme and color. There were so many cool, large displays built out of Legos and you walked around inside and outside of the store. The boys couldn't get over how long it must take and how many pieces you must need to make them. Of course, I had to capture their photo by some of our favorites.

Lego Buzz

We had a great long day! We enjoyed every minute of our time spent at Animal Kingdom and Downtown Disney!

Epcot/Downtown Disney

2011-11-30T20:57:00.000-06:00

This day was spent at Epcot. There were several fun things to do there. We spent time in the Nemo section. There is a simple but cute ride, an aquarium, Turtle talk with Crush and a little shark play area. It was a fun place to spend a little time.

Nothing better than Mickey Mouse ice cream!!

That evening we headed to Downtown Disney for dinner at the T-Rex restaurant. It was such a fun place.

Once we finished our yummy meal, we strolled and shopped around Downtown Disney. It looked so pretty but it was very crowded.

Lego Buzz

Lego Woody

This was an amazing display made entirely of Legos.

Carter loved the Lego dogs. He had to give them a kiss! Precious!

Right before we left, I made my parents pose by this beautiful tree!

We had a great long day! We enjoyed every minute of our time spent at Animal Kingdom and Downtown Disney!

Magic Kingdom

2011-11-30T20:56:00.000-06:00

We spent our last full day in Florida at the Magic Kingdom! This is our favorite park. There is so much to do for all ages. We started with breakfast at the Crystal Palace. We got to meet all the Winnie the Pooh characters.

We loved watching Carter meet Pooh Bear. He was so cute and was genuinely thrilled to meet him. He kissed his nose and handed him his stuffed Pooh to hug.It was precious!!

We all rode the Buzz Lightyear ride and loved it!

My parents having fun!

Landon and Cooper

My shootin' buddy!

Colton and Daddy

We rode the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and loved it!

Carter wasn't able to ride this ride and had fallen asleep in the stroller. So my brother and his family watched him while we rode it.

He was so tired. He slept like this for 2 hours. Poor guy!

Of course, we had to ride this oldie but goodie ride...

We made our way through the Swiss Family Robinson tree house and the boys were intrigued with it.

We took a boat ride from the park over to one of the other hotels and had dinner there. The kids loved the ride over and the buffet was yummy!

I am soooo glad we got to experience this trip with my parents! They made everything even more fun!

I think this next picture is my favorite!

The next day we headed home. We had a great time and would have loved a few more days but we were all exhausted! We can't wait to go back again!

Cuties in the airport.

Happy traveler!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T21:17:00.001-06:00

I am feeling so blessed and I know that I have the good Lord above to thank for it!

There are so many times when I am out and about with my three handsome and energetic boys and someone will say, "Wow you have your hands full!" or "I bet they keep you busy!" I like to say, "Yep-I am busy but so blessed!"
Saw this on Pinterest and it is exactly how I feel...

Anyway, we had a wonderful day! We headed to my parents first thing this morning for breakfast(fabulous tacos that my Dad makes) and we watched the Macy's parade. That is something my Dad and I always did when I was growing up and I love continuing that tradition with my boys. Even though most of the time when I look around, it is just my Dad and I left in front of the TV. =) Then we napped there and had a yummy dinner that my Mom fixed. My brother and his crew came and of course the cousins had a blast just being together.

My nephew Landon with my boys playing out in the woods and my parents. =) My nephew Luke isn't in this picture because we were still working to find one more flashlight. =(

Colton playing with my niece Livvy as she watched from inside. (It was getting a little chilly.)

I feel so lucky to have be so close to my family in relationship and location. =)

We will have another Thanksgiving dinner on Sunday with Cody's family and it will be another wonderful day.

Check out my little heart fillers with the simple but cute turkey treats I made that I also found on Pinterest...

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

I have to share a extra little thing I am thankful for...my hubby,the ~~obsessed~~ avid hunter, would have ordinarily left late tonight or super early in the morning to go hunting for the weekend. But he agreed so sweetly to stay around until lunch tomorrow so we can take our family pictures in the morning. He hasn't even complained about it. Does he love me or what?

Forgive me=)

2011-11-22T21:00:00.001-06:00

Okay~ I said I would blog while we were gone to Disney World if I wasn't too tired from all the fun. Well, I was too tired. The fun was exhausting! We fell into bed at night after we went fast and furious all day long. So forgive me for not updating the whole time. Anyway, we got home this afternoon. We all had a great time and I plan to blog about each day of the trip soon. I am so worn out right now that I can't even begin to do the kind of picture stacked posts I want to do. So I will leave you with this picture and promise you many, many more to come. =)

What I'm Loving Wednesday

2011-11-16T08:19:00.001-06:00

Happy Wednesday!!! Time to share a few things I am loving this week....

I am loving my mantle for fall...

Simple but with a touch of fall colors and of course my three little men!

I am loooving this precious little gift that Carter made for me at his preschool. He was so proud to give it to me. Doesn't get much cuter than this..

Okay- I know you will think I am crazy but we have already taken our pictures with Santa. The photographer we use does them early and I like it. That way I can get my pictures printed and displayed for most of December. Anyway, we took them last week and they turned out really cute! As a little preview, I will share one that made me laugh. There were lots of really good ones that I will show you later. This one just cracked me up!! LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my boys.

I am loving that tomorrow is the big surprise for our boys!! We will pick them up from school as soon as they are counted present, tell them that we are going to Disney World and head straight to the airport. I also love that their teachers are so excited for them and want to be part of the surprise. I can't wait to see the look on their faces when they find out we will be spending some time at the happiest place on earth!! Let the magic begin!!

Yesterday when we were playing outside Carter was noticing a few planes that went by. He would get so excited and yell, "Mama look--plane!!!" Then I asked the boys where they would want to fly if they could. Cooper's answer was New York... No idea why. =) But Colton says " Florida--so I can go to Disney World." Love that we are granting at least one of their wishes TOMORROW! ;)

I plan to blog while we are gone if I am not too exhausted from all that happiness and magic!! =)

Have a great Wednesday!

Link up with Jaime to share what you are loving!

So sweet

2011-11-15T22:00:00.001-06:00

Just because I want to remember this...
The other night Carter was playing with our Buzz Lightyear bath toy. When he got out of the bath and was dressed, he went back and got Buzz out of the bathtub and went straight to his brother's room to find the larger Buzz. Then he had the little Buzz give the big Buzz a kiss. Then he said "he kiss Daddy." Then he had to find a little and big Woody and do the same thing. Isn't that precious?!?! I love that he knows that his Daddy loves him and that he has a Daddy that shows him lots of love and affection!! Too Cute!

Veteran's Day

2011-11-11T08:03:00.001-06:00

Today we honor all American veterans! We are so grateful for the sacrifices they have made in their lives to keep our country free. They are all heroes! My personal hero is my Daddy! He served in the Navy as a damage control man. I love to listen to his stories of his time as a sailor!!

This is my grandfather who also served in the Navy. He was a hero and a great storyteller as well!

We have many Veterans on my hubby's side too. (I just don't have any pictures to scan.)

Our family is full of history and heroes. We are so lucky that all who served came home!

Love this--

Bravery doesn't mean you aren't scared. It means you go anyway!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

2011-11-09T07:00:00.004-06:00

Time again for one of my favorite link ups...

I am loving that one week from tomorrow we will be headed to Disney World. We are going with my parents and my brother and his family of five. The best part is that my boys have NO idea! We aren't telling them until we pick them up from school to head to the airport. I cannot wait to see their faces. I LOVE surprising them! I think it is pretty amazing that the six of us adults have been keeping this secret since March! It hasn't been easy but it will be so worth it. It is going to be a wonderful trip!

I love these cute shirts my sil Laura and I got done for my boys to wear while we are enjoying the Magic!

I also love the one she and I got for ourselves. =)

I love the fact that we will be there when it is decorated for Christmas! It has always been a dream of mine and my parents to be there at Christmas time! My parents got us tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas party and it looks so fun! My boys are going to have the time of their lives!! We all are!

Oh the pictures I am gonna take!!! I can NOT wait!!!!

If you have any Disney tips for me, please share!

Random

2011-11-05T22:18:00.000-05:00

Well, this a very random catch up post since I barely blogged this week. Our week started out good with a fun Halloween but I woke up Tuesday morning and felt pretty bad! I managed to snap a few shots of Cooper dressed for 50's day and get the big boys to school but Carter and I headed straight back home to rest. I laid around and only felt worse so I managed to get a doctor's appointment that afternoon. So thankful for my Mama who left work and came stay with the boys. Turns out the Strep monster got me again. Thank goodness, my sweet Mama stayed here and corralled my boys until Cody got home. I basically slept all evening. The next morning, my sweet hubby got the boys ready for school and his Mom took them for me. Then she came and got Carter so I could rest all day. I did. I slept off and on all day. Then my hubby was on kid duty alone that night too. Finally Thursday morning I felt a little better and by that afternoon, I was human again. Thank goodness for good meds, amazing Mamas and an amazing hubby. One thing I know is that I need to get more rest. I go on an average of 5-6 hours of sleep a night and it just drains me. Anyway, I can hardly believe it is already November. I seriously feel like someone hit the fast forward button. We have a had a little cold front and are actually getting some low temperatures at night. I am not a huge fan of cold weather but one of the few reasons I like it is this.....

my baby in footed jammies! He cracks me up though! The first time he wore them this year, after he got up and came to me and said "I take my jacket off" as he was unzipping them. =)

My hubby is off to the deer lease this weekend so it is me and my boys. We met my bestie Lynn and her girls at the movies today and saw Puss in Boots. It was pretty cute! The kids all enjoyed it for sure! I just love hanging out with those girls! =)

Okay~that is it for now. Hopefully, the Strep monster does not get any of my kids and this week I can be a better blogger!=)

Have a great Sunday!

50th day of school

2011-11-01T18:00:00.001-05:00

It seems like it has been longer than 50 days but today was in fact the 50th day of the school year!! The Kindergarteners celebrated by having 50's day! Check out my hip 5 year old!!!

Happy Halloween!!

2011-10-31T23:28:00.001-05:00

We had a great Halloween! Our families came here for a yummy but quick pizza meal and then we headed out to trick or treat. My father in law got his tractor and trailer all ready so we could hayride our way through the neighborhood.(Thanks Opi!) It is always so much fun! We had a werewolf, an Indian warrior, a sailor, Spiderman, the red Angry Bird, Sonic, a little witch and a knight. They ran to every door and loved every minute! The only bad part is that we had to cut it shorter than we would like because it was a school night. (Poor teachers tomorrow!!)

Anyway, here are some pictures from our fun evening!!

My little trick or treaters

Cooper's teacher/our neighbor Mrs. Miller-
We love her!

My sweet Mama dressed as a witch--she will do anything to make her grandkids smile.
They loved it all the lashes, the teeth, the wig and the warts!! They adore her-- I do too!

Ready to roll!!

The werewolf aka Colton

Sprinting to a door to trick or treat!

Colton with his best buddies/cousins--Landon and Graham

Carter checking out his loot

Candy!!!

Super cuteness--my nephew Grady and Carter

The Indian Warrior aka Cooper
Isn't this wig hilarious?

My little sailor and I

Me and my big boys!

Cody and his little sailor

My brother and my sweet niece Livvy Grace.
I am so mad at myself because I missed taking her picture in her cute little witch costume!

Silly Boys!

Sweet brothers

Our official candy inspector--ready to do his job!!

Hope you had a Happy Halloween!!!!

Colton's 1st Buck

2011-10-30T23:17:00.000-05:00

My hubby is one proud Daddy! He took the boys hunting this weekend and Colton shot his first buck! It is an 8 pointer and a big ol' boy. Colton was so excited!! He said, "It fell right in it's tracks." In other words, he made a great shot! Way to go Colty!

Colton, Opi, Cody and Cooper

As soon as the guys got home, we called my Dad. He was waiting eagerly to come see Colton and congratulate him!

Beaming with Papa

I love this last picture and I really love that my hubby thought to take it!! It is of Colton talking to me on the phone when he called to tell me his big news. I love the sweet smile on his face!

So proud of my boy!!

Cooper's successful hunt

2011-10-30T23:16:00.000-05:00

Colton likes to hunt but Cooper LOOOVES to hunt. He is still too young to shoot his first buck like his big brother did, but he did get to shoot a javelina! That was just fine with him. He was so excited! He said, " I smoked him Mama!" Oh my boys and their hobbies! Like father, like son!

Way to go Coops!

Fill in the Blank Friday

2011-10-28T07:29:00.003-05:00

Happy Friday! I gotta start today off by wishing my wonderful parents a Happy 39th Anniversary!! I am so lucky to have them and am so proud to be their daughter! Have a great day Mama and Daddy!!

Okay now I am linking up with Lauren for...

1. When I was a kid I wanted to be an astronaut and a teacher when I grew up.

2. As an adult, my dream job would be stay at home Mama. I feel so blessed that I get to live my dream!

3. W hen I was younger I wanted to be just like my mom .

4. The childhood Halloween costume that I remember most was when I was a a genie. It was a really cute costume but I remember it most because I wore if for like three years in a row. I didn't grow much those years ;).

5. My favorite childhood toy was Cabbage Patch Kids. I had five of them and loved them. My room was even completely decorated in Cabbage Patch Kids too.

6. The time I got into the biggest amount of trouble when I was a kid was when I ...I was such a worrier with an overactive conscience so I really followed the rules pretty much all of the time. I think the worst things I would do was get in trouble in class for giggling and not being able to stop. I was sent into the hall many times for this.

7. I get daily inspiration from my family, friends, the good Lord and other bloggers.

Have a great day!

A few pictures from the week

2011-10-27T19:00:00.003-05:00

Here are a few random pictures from our week!

This first one is my baby being cute, in a Halloween shirt, hanging out with me on Monday...

Adoraboo!! =)

Poor Colton had to have some dental work done on Wednesday. He brushes well and has been seeing the dentist every six months since he was 3 but according to the dentist, he is prone to decay. He took after me with that. Sorry Colty! Anyway, he had to have sedation and have a tooth extracted, get one crowned and have another filled. He did so well and I loved that when they brought him back to him he had all these stickers on him. There was one for everything he had done. One even said "Warning-teeth, lips, tongue asleep!" He was such a tough guy as usual!!

This week was Red Ribbon Week at school and Wednesday's theme was "Crazy about being Drug Free." Here are the big boys in their crazy socks and hats. So fun!

On Thursday, Carter has his party at school and they were allowed to dress up. My sweet little man had zero desire to put on his costume so it was struggle to get him dressed. But once we got to his class and he saw his friends dressed up, he loved it! They trick or treated through the church office and I am told he was pretty popular. I love him in his costume. So stinkin' cute!!!!

My little sailor giving me his cheese face

Carter and his buddy Batman

Okay, that is it for now. =)

Photo flashback

2011-10-22T22:05:00.001-05:00

Had to post these pictures of Carter in the pumpkin patch from the last three years. So amazing how much he has grown and has fast it has happened! Hard to believe he is almost 2 and 1/2.

2009 - 4 months

2010~ 1 year and 4 months

2011~ 2 years and 4 months

And now look at his sweet hands...

2010

2011

It may be just me but they looked so much smaller and chubbier last year. Sure do loooove my baby!!

Haunted house

2011-10-20T21:00:00.002-05:00

Nope, we didn't go to one. But we did color and put one together! My mother in law bought the boys a super cute cardboard haunted house and some big markers. The boys had a ball. They took their time and colored it so neatly and were so proud of their project! They did a great job and enjoyed playing in it while it lasted! =)

Hanging out in the hay

2011-10-18T07:00:00.003-05:00

Here are few more pictures from the corn maze that we went to on Saturday. There were some big bales of hay lined up and the boys loved jumping from bale to bale. Then they just laid on the hay and hung out in the shade. Great photo opportunity for me. =)

The Corn Maze

2011-10-16T20:20:00.002-05:00

We spent a good part of yesterday at the South Texas Corn Maze. It is kindof a long drive but it is worth it. There are lots of fun things to do. We rode the barrel train, jumped on the "corn popper", launched corn and went through the corn maze. The boys loved it especially since they got to enjoy it with a few of their cousins.

My handsome boys

My handsome nephews Graham and Grady

Colton on the corn popper

Coops on the corn popper

Carter in the "spider web"
He kept saying "I a pider"

Carter and Grady being spiders

Cooper at the corn launcher

Cooper helping Carter launch corn

My big boys relaxing in the shade

Remembering Caroline

2011-10-15T19:38:00.001-05:00

Today is a day of remembrance for the Mueller family. One year ago, my little niece was born far too soon. Cody's brother, Bobby and his wife Hillary, lost their little girl at 21 weeks gestation. You can read about that day here. Caroline was beautiful and perfect and is now a precious angel watching over us all. No matter how small she was, she had weight in this world!! Happy Birthday to sweet Caroline! Today also happens to be Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance day. So I pray for all of you grieveing the loss of your babies. May you feel God's peace and presence always!

Bobby and Hillary~ I love you tons!

Five Question Friday

2011-10-14T07:32:00.001-05:00

Join in

1. Do you prefer your ice cream in a bowl or in a cone?

If the option is there, I like a waffle bowl. That way I get the yumminess of a cone without the mess or need to rush. Oh and you can add lots of toppings if it is in a bowl.=)

2. What three things do you love the smell of?

A clean baby, Light Blue (my perfume) and my new Scentsy bar scent-Pumpkin Marshmallow

3. Giftcards or no? (In regards to gift giving...)

I love to give gift cards! Maybe it is because I love receiving them. To me, there is nothing better than getting to shop without money coming out of my own account. I do try to be thoughtful with the ones I give and make sure it is to somewhere the person would want to shop.

4. What sports did you play in high school if any and do you still play them?

Since freshmen couldn't be cheerleaders, I played volleyball and basketball my freshmen year but after that you had to choose between those or cheerleading. It was a very tough choice because I really loved basketball but I chose cheerleading!

As of now, I occasionally play basketball in the driveway with my boys. But I am definitely their biggest cheerleader in all the things they do! You will no doubt see me dancing, chanting and busting out my spirit fingers!! =)

5. Were you in band in high school? What instrument did you play?

No I wasn't in the band. If I could choose an instrument to play, it would have to be the drums. Just looks fun!

Happy Friday everyone!

A trip to the patch

2011-10-13T22:16:00.001-05:00

We made a trip to the Bracken Pumpkin Patch with Cody's side of the family and got some great pictures! They boys had so much fun running around and picking out their pumpkins.

Carter and my nephew Grady were working so hard moving those pumpkins around. They loved loading their wagons!

Taking a break after all that hard work!

Just plain cuteness!!!

Last year I could barely get Carter to look at me when we went to the pumpkin patch much less smile. This year he was so happy and everytime he got near a pumpkin he struck a sweet, smiling pose. Makes a Mama so happy !

Colton thought this pumpkin was so odd and funny. Love this silly shot he gave me. =)

My boys--love them so!

Of course we did a quick barrel train ride.

Here is the group shot of all the grand kids with Omi and Opi!

Then we came home and this is how we decorated our precious picks! No we didn't carve them but it was so early in October that we wanted them to last a while. These cute characters made the boys happy!

Carter was so happy with his Buzz pumpkin that he visited him on the front porch several times a day!

I love the fall!!

What I'm Loving Wednesday

2011-10-12T07:12:00.001-05:00

Happy Wednesday!!! I am linking up with Jaime for

I am loving that I got to go see a movie at the Alamo Drafthouse with one of my oldest, dearest and best friends, Misti. We saw What's Your Number? It was hilarious...very light hearted and fun!

I am also loving the chats that Misti and I have been having lately. We have been making it a point to just catch up with each other and we can spend hours talking. They are the kind of chats that feel like therapy. So thankful for you Misti Ann!!

I am also loving that another one of my favorite and best friends, Lynn is a stay at home mom again. She had gone back to work for a while and I missed her so so so much. So glad we get to spend more time together again and let our two youngest kiddos play more often. Her Gracie just turned 4 and she is so sweet with Carter. They had so much fun together the other day at our first official play date since Lynn "retired." =)

Aren't they cute???

I am loving books by Emily Giffin. After seeing the movie Something Borrowed, I had to read the book "Something Blue". It was great! Then I read and loved "Love the One You are With". Now I am reading "Heart of the Matter." So far very good. I would love all of her novels to turn into movies. =)

I am loving that yesterday my Mama and I got pedicures. It has been a while since we have spent time together. It meant so much to me that she dropped what she was doing to meet me at the nail salon. Thanks Mama!! Love you!!

I also love the cute polish design that I got done...

Fun silver zebra pattern--perfect for Halloween!

Happy Wednesday Everyone!!