The Kings

Happy Pre-Valentine's Day

2012-02-12T20:48:00.000-08:00

We had a super cute Valentine's party at our church last week. I am now the children's event planner...imagine that. We had a great time making cookies, cards and dancing, dancing, dancing. I'm so glad my parents were there to help me...chaos has never been my strong suit. We'll see how the year goes...this was the first of many church events that I'll be planning, unless the kids manage to frighten me away first.

The best part of the event was getting to take the kid's Valentine's to our assisted living facility today. BFFs Ollie and Sylvie did a magnificent job of handing out cards to the sweet residents who were waiting for us. I really haven't seen anything so cute in a long time. I am so proud of our girls...hopefully early service will have an impact on them for the rest of their lives. I'm actually hoping to take them out again soon so Ollie can shake her bootie like she likes it. Sylvie told me today that she loves Ollie and Ollie told her grandpa that Sylbie Sue was her best friend. Love.

Sweet shirt from Aunt Kathy.

Making cards with JJ.

Jumpin.

Dancin.

Shakin' it.

God Bless,
Katie

Long time no blog.

2012-02-12T20:16:00.000-08:00

I really have no excuse except exhaustion. I could blame this on the sweet gift of a thyroid condition that the munchkin bestowed upon me at birth, but that'd be a lie. I'm just tired and perhaps a little lazy. The thought of my soft, warm, narcotic bed is sometimes the only thing that gets me through the day. Mommy. Hi Mommy. Hey Mommy. Mommy. I wanna snack. Mommy. I wanna go outside see Harry. Mommy. Hi Mommy. Hey Mommy. I tee tee on a potty get a M&M. No wanna tee tee on a potty. I wanna go JJ's house this weekend see Ferg. Hi Mommy.

We've had a very busy January, mostly due to my obsessive need to make the devil-month fly by. I've previously posted about my hatred for the month. Honestly it wasn't that bad this year. I think it has something to do with the crazy warm temperatures we've had...no being cooped up in the house for us. We go, go, go in flip flops like the white trash we aspire to be. Just kidding...but it seems silly to wear boots when it's 75 degrees and sunny outside.

Here are some photos of the baby from her trip to JJ & Ferg's while Parrish and I attended his annual dental alumni weekend in Birmingham. She had a great time, telling me in the car on the way home that she was going to JJ's tomorrow. Not so much. Luckily they came down a couple of days later to help me with her new playroom so she could get her fix. Loves. them.

God Bless,
Katie

Can't believe I forgot this one...

2012-01-07T17:07:00.000-08:00

Photo op with Wilma "choosing" the best Dirty Santa gift ever. If you can't tell, it's a Santa toilet seat cover and floor mat. Couldn't have chosen a better recipient for this choice gift. Classic.

PS...Will and Anna got engaged at the end of December and we are super happy for them. She's great and he's happy, a winning combination.

Heres to things making my Christmas just a little bit merrier.
Katie

Holidazed.

2012-01-07T15:14:00.000-08:00

So what if it's January 7th and I'm just getting around to chatting about our Christmas? It also took me about two weeks to take down our decorations and put all of our loot away. But that spurred on a major cleaning project of the whole house, so every spare moment I have I'm strategically getting rid of three years worth of accumulated junk since we moved into this house. I'm getting closer but still have several closets and cabinets to tackle. The plan is a yard sale this spring, if I can live with the ever-growing mound of (junk) really great stuff you want to buy. I also notoriously hate January (let it forever be struck of the calendar) so I'm trying to stay super busy as though to rush through it so quickly that it doesn't even know I'm here. Ridiculous, I know, to hate an inanimate object such as a month, but there be it.

Highlights from December:

Lunch with Mimi and Poppy in Mobile for Mimi's birthday.

"I'm like a princess!"

Welcoming baby Stella Grace Harden. Has since asked me if I have a baby in my tummy.
Not sure how to take that.

Making cookies for Santa.

Leaving treats for Santa and the reindeer (we also sprinkled reindeer food in the front yard).

Christmas morning...painting after hearing Santa's bells as his sleigh flew out of sight!

What's Christmas morning without a mustache?

Christmas goodies.

Off to church.

"I wanna paint!"

I don't think Harry was as enthusiastic about sharing as Sylvie was.
She's very generous with her toys.

Reading the Christmas story on Christmas morning.

Card table playhouse from Mimi.

"Meet me at the corner!"

New Years' Eve with friends and sparklers.

Finally relinquished a beautiful guest room to the munchkin...I can now see the living room floor and breathe again. I didn't realize how much stuff the little twerp has accumulated!

God Bless and Happy 2012,
Katie

Graduation day

2012-01-03T10:10:00.001-08:00

Mary had a little lamb...

2012-01-02T16:52:00.001-08:00

Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat...

2011-12-19T19:31:00.000-08:00

I really like that song. Especially when Miss Piggy comes in on the round. I get it stuck in my head all the time. That one and "I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas." I loathe "Simply Having a Wonderful Christmas Time" by Paul McCartney, which my loving sister insists on playing for me in some form or fashion EVERY.SINGLE.YEAR. Like calling me and not speaking but letting the worst song in song history play for three God awful minutes while I'm shouting to her un-hearing ears, "Make it stop, make it stop!"

We have had such a busy December, much like most of Americans with children, I'm sure. When asked, Sylvie says she wants a "green one" from Santa. No clue what it is that's supposed to be green, so good luck, Santa. Sometimes I get a green present or green toy, but mostly just a green one. She also would like to buy Daddy a green one like her and get Nanie a yellow necklace. Not a gold one, mind you, but a yellow one. Sorry, Nanie. You may be getting a yellow yarn necklace this year. No returns.

Sylvie has added so much joy to our life, and it's so apparent during the holidays. There's nothing like watching your child get excited about Jesus and Santa at the same time. It's energizing and renewing, save the monster cold I'm currently fighting. This week is pretty quiet as we gear up for our weekend festivities. Meal planning, anyone?

We did get to go see our local production of the Messiah that the Andalusia Ballet produced with a local orchestra and choir. It was a really nice production and we are so blessed to have such a professional dance opportunity here in our small town. Maybe Sylvie will dance there one day? I would give my right arm to be able to dance again like that (well, maybe not my arm since ballet is prettier with two good ones).

We also got to surprise Parrish's mom in Mobile for her, dare I say it, 60th birthday. We met her for lunch at a great restaurant (Felix's...try it) and I think she got the best present in having all of her kids together at one time! A rarity since we're all scattered across the southeast. Sylvie had a ball and behaved so well for a two-year-old on a day-long excursion. This trip led me to believe that the trip described below would be cake. Wrong-o.

Sylvie had several Christmas parties last week, including a visit from Santa at Little Friends. I'm told she sat on his lap to get her present, but I think I need photo evidence to believe it. She also saw him at the library and told the little girl who was tending her that day (an 8-year-old) that she wasn't scared. Since I haven't witnessed either Santa-sighting, I'm still a bit skeptical.

Sylvie's program at Mother's Day Out. This was hilarious to me...those women have these kids trained so well. Sylvie didn't move a muscle out of that chair. They must be Baptists.

Treats I made for MDO. So easy and cute. I win.

Cute outfit, # who cares. But she does have several
and has worn them all month.

We attended the party for our local children's home at our church. The face painting totally freaked her out. I think it feels weird, too. Cold and and sort of soft.

After the waterworks, now the proud owner of a "candy can" tat.

I took Sylvie to Destin this week for a girl's day of shopping. This would've been an awesome idea if not for the 30 minute traffic stall in Baker for road work, the vomiting in the car, the having no cash for the toll and the constant whining from the peanut gallery, both going and coming. I guess paying extra for the DVD headrests was money NOT well spent (on that subject, happy birthday to me...my new car came in last month...woo hoo for Ford Explorers with air-conditioned seats. My summertime booty thanks you). Anyway, we did get all of our shopping done and the munchkin tee teed on the potty at Target, so all in all, I consider it a success. It also made me appreciate Parrish so much...I don't know how single moms do what they do. I was exhausted.

An interesting lunch at the beach shared with begging birds and a two-year-old saying,
"Here bird, here bird" non-stop during the meal.

We also took a road trip to the big city of Enterprise for a little Mellow Mushroom and Christmas lights viewing. I don't know what it was about that night, but I had so much fun! Who knows if Sylvie did. I think I was so grateful to be with Parrish after our Destin-capade. It was so fun showing Sylvie the neighborhood there that goes all out with decorations, maybe minus the big "roll tide" with the Auburn/AL score on the rooftop. Weird Alabama fans...since when does that have anything to do with Christmas?

Sylvie and the Mellow Mushroom snowman with "glubs" and a "cat" (carrot) nose.

God Bless,

Katie

Here we go...

2011-12-05T19:31:00.000-08:00

Our holiday season is now in full swing, even though I'm totally not ready for it. I needed a few more days in November, but here we are, already at December 5! I knew my life would seem faster with a child, but seriously, can we put on the brakes? So far this month:

December 1: We attended the city's tree lighting ceremony on the square. I sang "Sweet Little Jesus Boy" into a dead mic and Sylvie would only sit on Mrs. Santa's lap. Not a great memory on both accounts, but we did get some awesome sushi and Kirin afterward...definitely the highlight of the evening.

December 2: We went to the Christmas parade on Friday night...it was an hour and a half long. I'd hate to live in a big city...for our town of 10,000, that's a lot of bleepin' floats. The best thing that happened that night was watching a little boy handing out tracts about burning in hell to all the passersby. When approached by ANOTHER evangelist, his granny refused her tract. Hilarious and ironic. I also suggested that Parrish's office be the last float, throwing out toothbrushes after all the other floats bombarded the kids with candy. "Clean Up Crew" would be a good name!

December 3: My parents came to our house to celebrate Christmas with us since they are taking a postponed trip to Charleston over the actual holiday (I ruined their previous plans when I had my gallbladder so rudely removed last year). We had a great night opening gifts, drinking mulled wine and listening to the Muppets Christmas album (the best record of all time, BTW). My parents are overly generous and it was really sweet watching Sylvie open each gift and play with it for a little while before tearing into the next one. She's also an awesome janitor, cleaning up all the wrapping paper after each gift was opened. Made the ultimate janitor, my dad, so proud. We did have to stop her from opening ALL the presents, but it's my favorite activity, too, so who can really blame her?

Examining all the goods.

Christmas "sarf." She really did like this, no matter if her face says differently.

The child wouldn't even acknowledge the gift until she got every last scrap of paper off the box.

Ferg the photographer. He also makes great pipe cleaner animals.

Helping Mommy open presents.

Only my dork of a husband would be excited about a signed copy of a textbook.

Favorite gift: dollar store hairbrush and comb.

Deep conversations betwixt JJ and the munchkin.

This was my dress when I was little!

Sweet.

December 4: Sunday night was the children's choir Christmas program at our church. I was thrilled with how many people came...the church was literally full. We had a potluck dinner first and then the "show," followed by carols and a performance by our youth's praise band. It was a hilarious night, complete with a booty-shaking Mary (played by Ollie) and a rather violent angel (played by Sylvie...she kept throwing the baby Jesus out of the manger). The kids did a wonderful job and made us so proud...you never know what you're going to get with 17 children and a microphone. It was so special to have family come and watch the first of MANY more events for our Sylvie Sue...it was so cute that Catherine and Caroline brought her a present! Precious cousins.

Nanie King!

The angel.

Sylvie had so much fun and was so excited that she topped off the night by barfing in her bed around midnight. Please try not to be jealous of our holiday festivities.

God Bless,
Katie

My angel

2011-12-05T08:00:00.001-08:00

Did you know...

2011-12-01T11:52:00.001-08:00

...that Parrish not only is a dentist and great daddy, but a plumber and engineer as well? Among SO many other talents. Here is a sampling of his work in the last week or so. It is so nice (and cheap) to task your spouse to do just about ANYTHING and he be able to do it.

Our new kitchen sink faucet (the other one kept breaking and I couldn't fix it. And I'm the main sink-user in the family, so having a faulty one is unacceptable. It would be silly to have to wait all day for Parrish to get home to fix it so I can fill a sippy cup).

New vanity in our half bathroom. So much prettier than the old pedestal sink, with more storage. Plus Parrish got to use some cool plumbing stuff.

A concocted pulley system to add lights to the enormous cypress tree in our side yard. I love how I mentioned it once and he came home the next day with a carload of equipment and an idea for how to get them up there. Not going to share how long it took.

Ta Daaaaaa!

The munchkin supervised with a snack and required napkin.

God Bless,
Katie

Happy Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-27T20:25:00.000-08:00

We traveled to Dadeville this year for the week, getting to spend time with my family, including Carey, Nathan, best friend Bailey and mystery Fortner baby #2! We did get to have dinner with Parrish's family before we hit the road on Wednesday night, which would be hard to miss considering the food is AMAZING. We had a great time at the lake DOING NOTHING thanks to my parents doing all the heavy lifting, playing with the babies, cooking, cleaning up and then doing it all over again. I really didn't know what to do with myself with so much free time...I realized I'm not a very good relaxer! I'd say the trip was a success based solely on the fact that Sylvie slept all night every night and took a good nap every day. Sylvie would say that trip was a success due to getting to squeal, "Let's go!" and actually having someone say ok and follow her. Parrish would say it was a success because he got to stay up late playing video games with Nate.

Parrish and I did NOT enjoy watching the Tigers lose an Iron Bowl, but here's to next year and another shot at beating that OTHER team. We also had some extremely sad news from our friends the Hendersons...Heath's mom, Melissa, passed away on Thanksgiving Day after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. Words can't properly express how sad I am about this...we are entirely too young to be losing parents and having to explain death to our babies. I just can't imagine how it must feel to lose a mother and my biggest "thanks" this year is for healthy parents.

Anyway, here are some highlights:

The happy expectant couple...baby #2 due in May!

My BFF Hank...he never left my side. Want him!

Only my mom could find Thanksgiving crackers, normally an English Christmas tradition. Although it wasn't Christmas and we aren't English,
every meal is better with a paper crown on your head.

Best friends.

Uncle Nate taught them how to sword fight with wrapping paper rolls. Love him for endlessly entertaining the girls. Sylvie loves Uncle Nate!

Turkey bow!

Silly Bailey.

My dad always catches the best faces!

My baster for the day...if you can't tell it's a medicine dropper. Got to love improvisation...we had chicken instead of turkey so I guess this follows the theme for the day just fine!

Reading, Bailey says "cheese."

Reading, Sylvie says "cheese."

A trip to the park to get some beautiful fresh air, until Bailey slipped and hurt her ankle. She maintained a convincing limp for the rest of the trip.

Bailey's third birthday party on Friday. We are so blessed to have such good friends in the Owen/Ondresky clan that make it to all of our baby events!

Pretty birthday girl.

Ashley getting the cold shoulder (0r palm?) from the munchkin.

Pinterest rainbow cake. Requested by Carey, who watched as me and my mom tried to create the custom concoction. Note to self...try harder next time. But it was yummy.

Make a wish!

Look how tall that bleepin' cake is!

I wish I could remember who made her laugh this hard. Sorry, Mom, had to put this in here.

Sylvie messed with her elastic the whole time. Bailey managed to snap it across her own face and ended up with welts on both cheeks. Happy birthday to you.

Happy family of four.

Bailey Grace, 3.

PKing, could you please fit one more thing on your head?

These next few photos are from "Sylvie and Bailey's Day O' Fun." Parrish and I headed to Auburn for the game and we are so grateful our family loves our baby so we can cheer on our Tigers EVERY GAME.

Ferg (Serg/Ferd).

Taking a much-needed but short-lived break watching The Little Mermaid.

Wagon ride.

Cute cousins!

New skates...I loved how Sylvie helped Bailey put them on over and over and watched her ride, but never tried to take them away from her. She knew Bailey was the birthday girl!

So precious!

Craft time!

God Bless,
Katie

Homecoming 2011

2011-11-27T19:50:00.000-08:00

We took Sylvie to her first game of the season earlier this month, to Auburn's Homecoming game against Samford. She had a ball. When we tried to leave at halftime, she refused, saying that she needed to watch the band ("need" is a staple vocab word at this point...she needs to stand in the chair, she needs to play in the dishwasher, she needs to go see the pumpkins on the front porch...you get the point). Now she wants to go to the "sootball" game all the time! I guess we'll have to break down and get another season ticket next year! It just happened to be the coldest game all season, but the munchkin kept warm on our laps and by eating MOUNDS of stadium junk food. Girl after my own heart.

God Bless & War Eagle!
Katie

Happy Birthday Bailey!!

2011-11-25T14:56:00.001-08:00

Griswold Family Christmas

2011-11-20T15:17:00.001-08:00

Celebrity sighting

2011-11-19T08:49:00.001-08:00

Gobble gobble.

2011-11-14T14:03:00.001-08:00

What we do on Sunday afternoons.

2011-11-14T09:06:00.001-08:00

Odds and ends...

2011-11-07T19:46:00.001-08:00

Happy November! Can't believe we're already there. It's been a slow start to the month and with the time change, I feel like our days are super long. I need a nap around 5 just to make it to bedtime! We have a fun month planned, with more Auburn football, birthdays and Thanksgiving, not to mention the Veteran's Day parade! (kind of kidding...I love a good parade and I truly get teary-eyed when I see the oldies on the World War 2 float). Love the cooler weather and hearing Sylvie tell me it's raining when she hears the wind in the trees.

Sylvie cheering for an LSU win over Bama. She got it!

Grown up pony tail! So long, baby, hello, toddler.

Mommy and Sylvie before my MK open house.

Sylvie's costume for her "Mary had a Little Lamb" themed dance recital in the spring.
(Seems and little more like "Mary had a Little Brothel" to me,
but for $50 I guess I can assume it's worth it.
And no, I don't know this little girl).

God Bless,
Katie

Happy Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T14:22:00.000-07:00

We started off our Halloween weekend with a fun birthday party for our friend, Grover. It was a beautiful day to be a ladybug! She chose this costume from her two Halloween outfits (Cracker Barrel is a great place for inexpensive, cute costumes, by the way).

After the party, I got to enjoy a mani/pedi AND a nap afterwards, plus I made two types of fall soup to boot. Yay for Saturdays when Daddy is home! And YAY for Auburn's win over Ole Miss. It's nice to see the Tigers succeed.

On Halloween, we headed to the Presbyterian church for a lowcountry boil benefiting the MOPS group Sylvie and I participate in. The food was yummy and Nanie was there! For this event, Sylvie chose her fairy (sairy) costume, but told people she was a ballerina. After boycotting naps for the past two days, this little fairy tried to fall asleep in the car on the way to the party, but she certainly didn't miss any of the excitement!

Parrish used the opportunity to ask Nanie to make him a lunch of liver and onions one day soon. We are headed to her house tomorrow. She is quick on the draw and I hope he likes it...I'm not a fan and never make it for him. That's what good Nanies are for.

(I had to put this picture in here, just to remember my shortest hair ever moment. I asked for pixie and I got it. I guess I was channeling Sylvie's Halloween costume).

Sylvie went up to the square with Nana and Papa after dinner. I didn't get to see the festivities, but according to the Star News, it was the biggest the event has ever been. I'm not a huge fan of adults standing in line for free candy (well, actually I'm not a fan of anyone standing in any line for anything free) but it's nice that the city puts it on each year. But I still think it's better to work for your candy...put on a costume, get up your courage and say "Trick or Treat!" And don't forget to say thank you.

We did some old-fashioned trick-or-treating in a friend's neighborhood with a witch and Buzz Lightyear, as well as in our neighborhood, then we put our exhausted fairy in the bed. But not until she managed to make a tiny hole in a bag of M&Ms, just big enough for a goody to fall out. Sometimes I guess she really is just like her mommy.

I did like Sylvie's wagon-ride conversation with her friend, Ollie. It went something like:

Ollie: "I'm a flyin' witch! What are you, Sylvie Sue? A magic fairy?"

Sylvie: "No, I'm a bah-nah-rina!"

I also love the story Ollie's mom told me on Sunday. She was holding Sylvie, loving on her in the nursery. Ollie was rolling on the floor, crying, " My mommy don't wanna love Sylvie Sue!" Hope they're not planning on a second child any time soon. Sylvie just watched her, probably wondering what the fuss was all about.

I managed to get Sylvie to nap today (bribed with a promise of M&Ms and juice), and in the process took down all of our Halloween decorations. I get a breather before Christmas. I refuse to do anything Christmas-y until after Thanksgiving.

And oh yeah, Sylvie tee-teed in the potty the other day! I think we're on the right track and maybe she'll be potty trained by Christmas? Here's hoping. I guess I discovered that her potty treat can be an M&M. Good research done on Halloween.

God Bless,
Katie

Ladybug

2011-10-30T19:01:00.001-07:00

October 2011 Highlights

2011-10-26T12:04:00.000-07:00

What a doll. She loves the pumpkin bow she has in her "pawny tail."

I just thought this was hilarious. Coat on, reading newspaper. This happened seconds after we got home from school, like it was her job to read that paper.

Watching Daddy carve the pumpkin.

Helping Daddy carve the pumpkin, requesting punkin seeds to munch.

Parrish's beautiful pumpkin...it even has a 3D bat.

This past Monday was Parent Observation day at Sylvie's ballet/tumbling class. I took loads of video and will try to edit one to post. She did so well and really loves this class. She can do every skill they ask of her, save being able to hop very well (that left foot just can't quite make it off the ground).

Sylvie on her color. She follows directions really well.

Waiting her turn for a back roll.

Fly your butterfly to the beach!

Parrish's handiwork from a dead cypress tree. Bambi is in our front yard now!

God Bless,

Katie

Things you only get to see at the Covington County Fair

2011-10-21T18:26:00.001-07:00

Smokers and lots of them. (Really? At a kid's event? Do without for at least an hour, seriously.)

Country carnies with no teeth. (This requires no explanation.)

Pregnant teens holding hands with their baby daddy.

Pregnant teens smoking. (Yes, I saw it and was so sad.)

Kids with no shoes in cool weather. (Again, this is true and super sad. It wasn't cold by any means, but really?)

Very few ethnicities. (I guess white folks really like the fair.)

My two year old on a roller coaster. (LOVED it. Now wants to go to the "sair" all the time.)

A 7 year old singing He's Got the Whole World in His Hands in the talent show and WINNING.

A little boy calling Sylvie "fatty" on the car ride. (And yes, I tore his butt up. No one is going to talk to my child like that, even if she doesn't have a clue what he said, and get away with it. And yes, I was prepared to go toe-to-toe with his redneck mother if need be.)

"Nigh nigh sair",
Katie

Pumpkin Patch 2011

2011-10-17T14:15:00.001-07:00

Here are some fun pictures of our life lately. Enjoy!

Pigtails, being camera shy
(or camera ornery, depending on how you look at it).

Getting my pumpkin at the pumpkin patch, mad.

Sitting on a hayride with Daddy, mad.

Sitting on a tractor with William, mad.

Finally, sitting on a tractor, happy!

Carving the pumpkin at JJ & Ferg's.
Wouldn't touch the guts but really like toasted pumpkin seeds.

Finished product. I asked her the other day where the light was
(it wasn't lit up) and she said, " Maybe inside?" Good answer.

Blowing bubbles.

Cutest Auburn fan!
(Cousin Catherine gave Sylvie her hat,
since she "goes" for Alabama now. Poo.).

Serious Auburn fan.

God Bless & War Eagle,
Katie

PKing's 31st Birthday!

2011-10-10T19:55:00.000-07:00

Of course we have no photos to commemorate this big event. It seems that unless there is a tiny munchkin doing tricks we don't seem to take out the camera! But it was a special weekend nonetheless. Although we traveled to Birmingham for a dental meeting, we managed to sneak in some birthday fun. After leaving Sylvie with Papa and Nana, we hightailed it north to make an eight o'clock reservation at the best place on earth, Highlands Bar & Grill. I somehow Jedi mind-tricked Parrish into thinking that HE wanted to to there for his birthday dinner. Yeah, right. It was a gift for me and he knew it. That's why I love 'em. After a treat of champagne, a delightfully cold martini, oysters, rabbit risotto, beef carpaccio, fresh fish, fabulous salted chocolate cake and french press coffee, Parrish (and I, of course) was one happy birthday boy.

We found a great hotel downtown near the dental school and got a complimentary room upgrade after I explained our last hotel experience to the clerk (ask me for details on this...I don't think I blogged about it since it was too vulgar for the written word). I also surprised myself by actually using the hotel gym, but since I've managed to lose about nine pounds recently, I've decided that I actually like working out. Imagine that. I did get to spend a lovely lunch with my bf Whit while Parrish did what he does best...talk about dentistry.

After P's meeting, we shopped in downtown Homewood (which I miss so much, by the way. I really wish Andalusia was more like that...there were so many cute moms with their kiddos shopping and getting a cookie at Savage's. Oh well.). We checked in at Cobb Lane B&B for our second birthday night. To be honest, I normally love the B&B experience, but this was not too thrilling. To the point that we didn't want to spend any time there! The room was dirty and it was a Victorian theme, translation, creepy old pictures all over the walls and dolls EVERYWHERE. We hightailed it to dinner at 26, very good food, trendy crowd. And although we intended to go out on the town, I was so tired the thought of a bar was certainly out of the question. So we settled on some bowling. And we were terrible. But at least that meant we got to go to bed sooner.

After a mediocre breakfast from an arrogant innkeeper (did I mention I wasn't a fan of the B&B?), we headed to the Summit and spent time in the Apple store, JCrew and Brooks Brothers, the ultimate shopping day for the birthday boy. I did have to twist his arm to get some new clothes...we shop for him like every five years. But he looks so good in clothes, even the new skinny men's jeans! He drew the line at the skinny jeans, just so you know and aren't worried anymore. After the longest ever visit to Best Buy (omg, I hate that store) we headed home for the Auburn game. I guess the most eventful part of the trip was being flagged down in Georgiana to sell some Mary Kay in the Fred's parking lot. You never know where or when you'll make a sale!

We sadly watched Auburn lose Saturday night and also got the munchkin back...I honestly think she'd have stayed at Papa's instead of coming home. But that's great...it means no worries when we travel. All in all we had a great weekend, complete with grilled pizzas, artichoke bread and chocolate roulage for birthday dinner. Not to shabby for a 31-year-old daddy.

This week we're still battling a cold Sylvie's had since last week. I'm thinking a touch of croup, but hopefully she'll start feeling better soon. I'm blaming it on our pre-fall cooler weather. She better, since we're headed to the Plains for the Florida game and then on to the pumpkin patch!

Holy cow, I just realized I haven't written about my experience with my animal communicator. I'll have to have a separate post just about that. No really, stop laughing, she talked to Harry and I believe every word she said. And yes, Harry will be chatting with her again.

God Bless,
Katie

No Dahcta E!

2011-09-29T12:59:00.000-07:00

The munchkin visited with our wonderful pediatrician this morning for her two-year well check. I got her dressed and in the car without incident by telling her we were going to Nanie's house. Then, once we were buckled in (or trapped), I dropped the bomb that we were going to "stop by" to see Dr. E. This started the, "No Dahcta E!" routine, complete with finger shaking. This didn't stop until after the visit, even after she shook her little fist right in Dachta E's face. He's a trooper. BTW, we were going to Nanie's after the appointment, so I didn't technically lie to her. Just so we're clear on that.

Anyway, the munchkin weighs in at a whopping 21 lbs. 2 oz. That's still the fifth percentile like she's always tracked, while she jumped up to the 50th percentile in height (from the 25th at her last check up). Although she was pronounced totally healthy by the doctor, we are still going to check her hemoglobin and gluten antibodies, just to make sure she's tiny due to genetics and not some metabolic issue. We're also going to consult with a dietitian to make sure she's getting adequate daily calories. I did ask how you're supposed to get a two-year-old to eat and was reassured that this was an impossible feat, but we may just need to tweak what is offered to the little one.

She did so well for her exam, letting Dr. E get a good look at everything. A little pronation in her ankles, but both mommy and daddy suffer from the same thing and that can easily be fixed with orthotics later in life. Actually I think the word the doctor used to describe her was "perfect." Just as I suspected. He also confirmed my stance on potty-training...we aren't ready and shouldn't be concerned about it at this point. I really want it to be as easy as something like that can be...she is starting to tell me she has poo poo pants but doesn't seem overly concerned about it, so we're sticking with diapers for the time being.

She endured two shots brilliantly, especially when she discovered that she received an orange Popsicle, not to mention two, count 'em, two band aids. We are currently obsessed with Band aids since I got to wear one when I sliced my knuckle off on a bean can.

Thankfully we won't have to go back for another shot for an entire year, so that's great news. I really can't believe we're at that point. She'll be starting kindergarten before I know it! Right now she's really into Mary Poppins, the Little Mermaid and doing Daddy's hair with a toy hair dryer. He is so sweet to let her basically do what she wants to with him!

We're also thankfully back to napping this week, after our horrible hiatus last week. Who knows if that will last, but today, I'm grateful. Mama's about had it, and to top it off, our genius cat thinks it's fun to cry from 5 am until we finally decide to get up. Anyone want a Harry-skin rug? Comes very cheap, to the lowest bidder. Will look lovely in front of your fireplace on cold winter's night, when I'm peacefully sleeping in my warm bed without an ounce of regret.

God Bless!
Katie

ISR

2011-09-26T13:28:00.000-07:00

Sylvie graduated from a six-week session of the Infant Swimming Resource program offered at the Wellness Center in Opp. I would highly recommend this to anyone with small kids, even if they are rarely around water. The change in her skills was remarkable, and it was totally worth the 40 minute daily drive for two months. She went from being an happy, excited swimmer to a confident, underwater swimmer, capable of floating and pulling herself up on the wall.

Of course, this wasn't quite as easy as I'm making it sound...we went through several lessons with Sylvie screaming her head off, all the while doing everything that was being asked of her. It was hard to watch at times, but we made it to the point where she willingly got in the pool, laughing and squealing the whole time. God forbid she ever have to use her new skills, but this was good for her in so many ways. I am so appreciative of her teacher, Sarah, and the people that were able to provide this service to a small town.

God Bless,
Katie

Sylvie King turned TWO!!

2011-09-25T19:37:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful birthday party for Sylvie at our house. I think at one point I counted 17 kiddos, not to mention all the parents. We had a gameday theme since the all-important Auburn game started an hour into the party. Sylvie wore her gameday finest (thanks, Aunt Jan) and had a ball. She did really well with all the chaos...I've heard so many horror stories of the guest of honor acting all of their two years and throwing major fits at their own party...not so with our little tiger. She had a ball. We had yummy brunch snacks, AU cookies for favors, a tiger cake and an Aubie pinata that Parrish helped demolish (who knew he had so much pent up anger...glad he took it out on the papier mache and not me)!

On that subject, the broken tiger head was in our garage for a few days, waiting to be put into the trash. Every time Sylvie would pass by, she'd say, "Aubie hurt!" and look very worried. And each time I had to explain that it was the fun pinata that we got to hit and snacks and bubbles came out. I swear it was Groundhog's Day over and over...we repeated this same conversation so many times. I was glad when trash day rolled around and we could get it out of sight! I hope I didn't scar her for life.

Anyway, we had wonderful friends and family join us to celebrate the big "2" with us and we had a great time!

Take a swing, girl!
(What a hard concept for kids who are normally told not to hit all the time!).

"Mommy, I swingin!"

Mimi, JJ and Nanie...what are y'all pointing at??

Sweet Nanie...how fun to have the great-grandmother at the party!

These next photos were taken at JJ & Ferg's house...we are so lucky to get to leave Sylvie with them while we go watch Auburn play almost every single weekend. She loves it and so do they (and so do we, as a matter of fact. After five years of marriage, I finally love Auburn football).

Pipe cleaner glasses always make gameday more fun.
I think they should sell these at Jordan-Hare.

We had an interesting week following the festivities. I came down with a roaring case of bronchitis, while Sylvie simultaneously decided to boycott naptime. Cue a very sad, tired, frustrated Mommy. Hoping it was a phase, I battled with her all week. No luck, until JJ was able to get her to nap at her house. I'm currently enjoying a nap right now as well, after an hour of reading and crying (her and me). I'm so not ready for this milestone...I think naps should last until the first day of kindergarten. I really do dread this time of day and really hope she decides to give up the fight.

Meanwhile, Parrish is coaching the six and seven year old soccer team with games twice a week. Sylvie has her two year check up and shots this week, and Parrish is about to have his 31st birthday. What should I get the man who has everything and buys what he likes for himself? It's a puzzle each year.

Hope you're all having a good fall...ready for cooler weather since it's still in the 90s down south. We'll have to schedule our pumpkin patch trip for when it's a bit nicer out.

God Bless,
Katie

Sylvie's Birthday Week

2011-09-13T13:30:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my baby is turning two this week. It really is shocking that I have a toddler who can now carry on a full conversation with me that makes total sense (no jokes about my level of conversation here...she talks about a lot of important stuff like Barney and swimming/swinging/eating, etc. I find it fascinating).

I'm spending the week getting ready for a gameday birthday party on Saturday, as well as myriad other birthday week activities, like treats for school, teacher gifts, a special birthday breakfast and painting my bedroom (wait, scratch that, painting has nothing to do with birthday but we did manage to somehow squeeze that task into the birthday week just to see how high my blood pressure could go. That is turning into a fun sport these days...but I haven't cracked yet. Check with me next week).

Cookie Monster cupcakes for school! So funny to me.

In other news, I got 10 inches of hair cut off this week, started a children's choir at church and attended the AU vs. Miss State game. Of course the highlight of that day was our win, but the part that got my heart racing was our bald eagle, Spirit, flying straight into a luxury box during the pre-game flight. I have since then found out that the eagle is fine. But seriously, at the time, I felt like the world had ended. Poor bird...hopefully just its pride was bruised.

Here is a funny video of some new tricks. If you need help translating, I suggest hanging out with a two-year-old more often, because I understand her perfectly.

FYI...We did master the pacifier issue, and just as I predicted last post, it is a dull memory now. No requests for it at bedtime and we are all sleeping well each night.

God Bless,
Katie

First day of Little Friends Preschool

2011-09-07T11:39:00.000-07:00

Sooo nervous, but ever stylish in her black jeggings.

Another milestone...next week she'll be potty trained! Just kidding, that might not happen until college. But we did start the Pre-3 program at the cutest preschool in town. The thing that struck me the most was the smell...pencils, crayons and a hint of peanut butter. A grown-up baby smell, much better than that of baby wipes, poo poo pants and Clorox.

Her teacher, Miss Kellye, said she did so well and didn't cry at all. She listened and followed instructions, and stuck to the teacher like glue. Even on the playground, she stood by Miss Kellye instead of playing with the other kids. What some would call anti-social, I like to call cautious. Good girl, trust is a hard lesson to learn. I'm really excited about what she'll learn this year and hope we can continue there until kindergarten. I asked what she learned today and she said, "I eat pretzels!" Snack was my favorite subject, too.

God Bless a new school year,
Katie

Another milestone reached...

2011-09-06T14:08:00.000-07:00

Sylvie voluntarily threw away her paci on Sunday. I gave her the option and in it went. I explained that it was forever (a pretty vague concept for a two-year-old) but it still went in the trash. We've had two good nights and two terrible naps. I'm hoping that by day three we'll have it licked. She doesn't ask for the paci much, but is so restless and can't settle down. I have her a magic blanket but it doesn't seem to work. I think by next week this will all be a dull memory for all of us (I hope and pray and hope and pray and hope and pray). To be honest, I wasn't ready to give up the paci. She's had it since the day she was born. I feel like we tossed a part of her body in the trash. I cried like there was no tomorrow. The question is...will I boo-hoo at every grown-up decision she makes? I think yes.

This is what I get for being married to a dentist. How many times can you hear, "The guideline is to get rid of the paci by age two" and not want to punch your husband in the face? The guideline, my friend, doesn't have a sweet face and a shrill cry. Needless to say, I'm in a funk that I hope lifts in the next day or so. Or at least by the time my baby leaves for college.

God Bless,
Eyeore

ABCs

2011-08-28T21:24:00.001-07:00

If this doesn't do it for you, what will?

2011-08-28T12:17:00.000-07:00

Some funnies...

2011-08-26T11:50:00.000-07:00

Today we had our first case of hurt "feelgins" (as I used to call feelings). A sweet friend of Sylvie's threw a plastic watering can at her and it hit her in the eyebrow. Sylvie didn't cry, but just turned around and wouldn't look at us or the friend for a few seconds. Then she slowly turned around with the biggest poked out bottom lip and came and sat on my lap and softly said, "Mommy." That was it. Not a single tear shed, but you could see the wheels turning in that sweet head that the action hurt her feelings more than her eyebrow. I about melted with sympathy and pride at my little girl's realization that such an emotion exists. I'm sorry to say that I'm sure this is just the first time she'll have her feelings hurt, and I hope she handles future incidents with as much grace and restraint as she showed today. I know we'd all like to believe that our friends will never hurt us, but they do and will, and I hope I can be there for Sylvie every time she needs a lap to sit on to contemplate...what just happened?

On a side note, we were swimming this morning and Sylvie was showing off numerous tricks she's learned at swim lessons. Sylvie was up on the shallow "baby" area of the pool and I was playing with her little friend in the water, standing next to the friend's mom. All of a sudden, without a sound, Sylvie was at my side, underwater and kicking as hard as she could. I'm telling you, that's how kids drown so quickly and so silently. It was surreal. I scooped her up and told her good job, but next time yell, "Mommy, I'm coming in!" I guess she just couldn't stand being left out of the fun in the deeper water, but man, it shook me up! Soooo glad we're taking the lessons, but how do you instill a little bit of fear into a two-year-old without harming their love of the water?

God Bless and brush up on your lifeguard skills,
Katie

Doo de doo...(humming and twiddling my thumbs)

2011-08-25T19:57:00.000-07:00

I got nuthin...

We are busy but boring these days. Even though tonight the munchkin was walking around saying, "Name Sylvie!" We have been waiting for her to understand the concept of names and it is so cute to hear her say her own. She also likes to tell me that the internet is broken. No lie, that is in her ever-increasing vocabulary. Love it.

I may get to video swim lessons tomorrow, so hopefully I'll have a funny video to post. She is a waterbug!

College football starts next weekend...WAR EAGLE! We've been waiting and here it is...lots of fun in Auburn and Dadeville for us on the horizon.

Oh, and I found a good cake recipe for Thanksgiving. That's about it. I know you're jealous of my jet-setting, super-fun lifestyle. Don't hate.

God Bless,
Katie

Picture post...

2011-08-16T20:30:00.000-07:00

I want to ride cart! Ride cart! Baby ride cart, toooo!

(Actual sentence spoken by the toddler in the buggy).

Fort built by daddy during a power outage.

Super fun way to kill the time, but hot under the wool blanket.

Ballet class outfit.

Being silly.

Doing the ballerina dance.

Waiting for class to start.

So busy...you'd think I had more children...

2011-08-16T12:20:00.000-07:00

**Disclaimer...Blogger is being difficult in posting pictures, so I'll add some later, if I remember.

For some reason with the start of school, which we don't participate in since Sylvie isn't even close to entering kindergarten, we have been so busy this month. I feel like I never sit down, but that's probably because I don't. In an effort to provide entertainment and socialization for the baby and free time for myself, I've booked us into oblivion. The jury's still out on whether or not this is a good idea...I'll let you know if smoke starts coming out of the munchkin's ears.

We started swim lessons last week...boo. Not a fun ten minutes for either of us. I have to bear the endless refrains of "no poooool", "no princess soat (float)", "up please," and "towel!" that occur during the entire lesson. Needless to say, the instructor is a saint. I did ask whether or not we were wasting our time and was assured that something will sink in eventually. We tested this last night, as I was concerned that we'd turned Sylvie off to water for good. She swam like a fish at Papa's pool, so no harm done. She even showed off all her new skills for us. I don't know why I worry so much. So five more weeks and hopefully we'll have a confident swimmer, and I'll get my evenings back.

We also started back to Mother's Day Out, or as I like to call it, Cinderella Tuesdays (since I clean the house top to bottom while the munchkin's at "school"). Last week was pretty bad...she decided that it would be better to stay in the baby room instead of with her friends. I said fine, since I really needed to mop. If she's not crying, mom's not crying. So we decided to give it a little more time, and lo and behold, she stayed in the big kid room all day today without a peep. Remember what I said about worrying?

Another fun appointment on our calendar...Tiny Tots ballet and tumbling! Now I know what you're thinking...and no, I'm not a stage mom. I really thought she'd enjoy it! If she hates it, we'll quit. For now, I think I made the right decision. She loves her ballerina pants (tights) and actually made it through the second class without me in the room. I think she likes the tumbling part best (like Daddy!). Seriously, if you thought puppies were cute, wait until you see a room full of two year olds in ballet shoes, leotards and bows as big as their heads. No comparison. She also came home talking about stinky feet...I think that's in reference to them bending over to stretch and smelling their feet in the process. Gotta lot these teachers...they are so much better than me.

Before I forget, I'm pretty sure I just heard her say, "I want to go to Wal-mart." Maybe we go there a lot? And I also caught her pretending to twirl her hair, my signature move. I really need to watch what I say and do, you think?

Hope you're all well and enjoying the start of school, end of summer and beginning of fall. I'm busy planning Sylvie's SECOND birthday party...can't believe that's almost here. Surreal.

God Bless!
Katie

First trip to the dentist!

2011-08-16T11:37:00.000-07:00

The munchkin enjoyed her first trip to the dentist to get her teeth cleaned last week. I think her dentist is super hot, don't you?

Very suspicious about what's about to occur...

The child didn't make peep throughout the entire procedure,
from brushing to flossing.

Seriously, she just sat this still and let him do whatever. So weird. Where was my real child?

Please tell me you're almost finished.

Getting ready for pictures...this dentist like to document everything. Imagine that. Let me know if you want to see the close ups.

All clean!

God Bless,
Katie

Summer Vacation

2011-08-02T13:06:00.000-07:00

Riding in style with "gasses."

We headed to Jacksonville, Fla., to see Parrish's cousins for a few days, and then up to St. Simon's, Ga., to see our good friends from college, the Kelleys. Parrish took a whole three days off and we took advantage of it. We loaded up Tuesday night and made it to Jax by 2 am their time...the munchkin did ok with the drive I suppose, but she's done much better in the past. We arrived at the Myers new, beautiful house just a mere four hours before Doug had to head to work and Durell to an exercise class (I totally would've skipped, but you already knew that). We played at the park with all the cousins, had lunch and attempted naps (a no-go for both little ones at our house, but that was to be expected, since we booted Maylin out of her bed and Sylvie was much too excited to do something as mundane as sleep).

She finally conked out, exhausted and hot!

We decided to get a babysitter that night and the grownups headed out for a little sushi and hookah lounge action. Let's just say we're not as young as we used to be and we made it a relatively early night. But it was great to go out without babies and enjoy our friends! The next morning we headed to the Jax Zoo for Sylvie's first zoo experience. I think she had fun, but it's hard to really tell. I know she loved the elephants the best, and the monkeys were still asleep. She also got to feed a giraffe, but I think that confused her, although I asked her yesterday what she fed the giraffe and she said, "Lettuce." Correct.

Thursday afternoon we joined Maylin at her music class, which was super fun. Made me wistful for those types of activities that Andalusia is sorely lacking in, so I got a brochure and may just start up my own toddler class. Sylvie really liked it. She likes to sing ABCs, Twinkle Twinkle, Jesus Loves Me, This is the Day, Open Shut Them, Its y Bitsy and Patty Cake. Hilarious. She really concentrates when she sings, like she's trying to get it right. A perfect mix of Parrish and me...I love to sing whatever whenever and Parrish, who can't carry a tune, has to do it accurately. Maybe that means she'll be an awesome singer and pay for my nursing home bills.

After a night of swimming and grilling out, we packed up and headed north to St. Simon's to spend the weekend with the Kelleys. Drew has a job on the island for about 18 months so they are enjoying a sabbatical in paradise until they'll move back home when he's done. They live close to beach and pool access, and St. Simon's has great shopping and restaurants, so needless to say we had a GREAT time. Sylvie played so well with their four-year-old, Annabeth, but kept her distance from little Katie...we need to work on our sharing skills a little more (when did she learn to say "mine"?). We ate at a great cafe for lunch, napped and then headed to the beach. So different from Destin and I just love it. Big old oak trees with Spanish moss...so pretty and historic. We ate dinner Friday night at Crabdaddy's and it was SO good. I had the best pasta I've ever had and the ranch dressing was killer. I ate myself silly and was happy about it.

We went back to the beach and pool Saturday morning, had another great lunch, shopped at the Bailey Boys store (Sylvie is set for her birthday...cannot wait to give her the tutu and pink feather boa...a dream come true for me, I mean her). After naps, we headed to have ice cream. I love that Shelley is a mom that condones ice cream as a snack...great minds think alike. We also got to walk out on the pier and visit this guy.

Sylvie's hat just like Daddy's!

After grilling out, we took the girls fishing. Not much to say about this, since the girls wouldn't fish and the daddies failed to land anything bigger than a minnow. Better luck next time. They did manage to go crabbing that night and got a mess of blue crabs which Sylvie loved to look at. Cabs!

Forrest Gump moment.

Sittin' on the dock of the bay.

Losing interest in fishing=taking goofy pictures on Mommy's iphone.

Silly Annabeth, Sylvie's favorite.

We attempted church the next day, but Sylvie had other plans, having a panic attack in the nursery and then sleeping it off in a rocking chair on my chest. At least there was a TV with the service on so it wasn't a total bust. Such a great church...and they were teaching Biblical parenting, something I really needed to hear!

We drove home all day Sunday, it felt like, bless Sylvie's heart. She did remarkably well for being tied to a chair for seven hours. We are so glad we went, but it is good to get back into our routine. Not that it will be any less crazy...with Mother's Day Out, Little Friends, swim lessons, dance class, MOPS and football season, we'll stay busy all year!

Hope you're all having a good summer, even though it's apparently over since school starts next week. When did this happen? I thought August was a summer month and you didn't have to even think about school until September rolled around! Government ruins everything.

Some funny things Sylvie is saying these days: ballerina, Cinderella, pucker up, shuttle-eat (for shuttle launch...I think she thinks we're saying "lunch"), she told me Nanie colored in the baby Bible she has (it was me, I confess, when I was her age), when she happens to catch sight of any private part, she giggles.

God Bless,
Katie

Developmental milestone: move to toddler bed...check!

2011-07-21T20:13:00.000-07:00

She did it, gracefully with ease. Next comes getting rid of the pacifier and then potty training. If God is merciful, those will be equally as easy as the move from crib to big girl bed. Yeah right.

My 30th Birthday and Other Nonsense...

2011-07-21T19:59:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist posting a couple choice shots from the shuttle launch escapade. My suggestion was to put a chair under her legs and one under her body, but this didn't cross the mind of either highly educated doctor who chaperoned the munchkin on the crazy excursion. Sheesh. At least they scooted her down when her head flopped off.

Anyway...I finally reached the milestone I've been dreading...30 years on this earth. I really didn't think it'd be a big deal, but man, did I feel it last week. Mostly an intense feeling of impending doom. Is this normal? Am I now doomed? Sure feels like it.To get my mind off of this new tragedy in my life, Parrish took me on a relaxing (and rainy) getaway to Destin sans baby. Rain=shopping and eating, so we did. We stayed at the Henderson Park Inn, an adults-only B&B. Very nice, save for the gutter atop our roof that stayed filled (and gushing) all weekend. Sounded like someone was draining a tub, ALL. NIGHT. LONG. We had dinner at Marina Cafe, slept in until 9:45 am (gasp!), shopped a lot for Sylvie's upcoming birthday (and a few things for the birthday girl herself), watched the last Harry Potter in IMAX 3D (this added to my sadness...I've been either reading a new HP book or watching a new HP movie every summer since the first book came out in 1998. I'm devastated that it's over). We ate again at Tommy Bahamas (so good) and then shopped some more. I tried a couple of red wines that I really liked...getting adventurous! We tried the beach on Sunday morning, but getting sprinkled on while watching a huge storm move ashore isn't much fun. We took zero pictures...maybe subconsciously I don't want to remember it? I really missed the baby, who enjoyed asuper fun vacation at Nana and Papa's house. Again, she wasn't thrilled to see us as she was too enthralled with the ipad.

The only photo I took...off our balcony that overlooked the state park...so quiet and private...good choice, P King.

Sylvie and I packed up again after the weekend and headed to the lake to see JJ and Ferg. Another couple of days napping, eating and letting other people entertain my child...my kind of birthday! This, of course, I captured on film, as I do everything the munchkin does. She enjoyed the lavish attention she received, complete with swimming, a train ride and a new playhouse.

Watching "tee" in the lawnmower box playhouse, aka, the best toy ever. You totally have my permission to steal this idea, especially good on a rainy day.

She'll be comin' round the mountain when she comes...

Choo choo tain!

We are so excited to travel to see family and friends next week in Jacksonville and St. Simon's. Then it's six weeks of infant swimming lessons, followed by the start of Mother's Day Out, ballet lessons and possibly the two-year-old program at Little Friends preschool. Not to mention someone's second birthday...I planned it this weekend. Can't believe we're already there. The end of summer looms...not that I mind since I've decided I HATE the heat that summer in Alabama bestows on us each year. Not a great attitude to have since I'll live here for the rest of my life and will then be buried under the hot sun for eternity.

I'll leave you with a few cute pictures from this summer, since we all know you only read this blog to see the baby.

Boy's Elmo pjs picked out by Daddy...of course she LOVES them and wants her Elmo pants all the time.

Cheese face.

Push me, Daddy!

God Bless,
Katie

Mean-faced Elmo-wearing Munchkin-head

2011-07-20T19:05:00.001-07:00

Look who made history...

2011-07-12T17:23:00.000-07:00

Parrish took Sylvie and Papa to see the last shuttle launch EVER. Thanks, Barack, for such a great contribution to space travel (in case you missed it, that was a joke. Obama canceled our shuttle program. Such a winner, that one). Anyway...

After multiple panic attacks and zero sleep on my part, the three musketeers (or shuttleers?) made it to and from Cape Canaveral, Fla., to see Atlantis depart Earth for the last time. Here is the video evidence...it will probably be a long download but totally worth it to see their adventure. If it doesn't work, just call Parrish and he'll give you a thorough, detailed account of the event, from an astronaut's perspective, since that's what he aspires to be in his other life.

So glad they made it back safely and now have this memory to share...honestly, all joking aside, could I ask for a better daddy for my munchkin? He is so good.

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/28215421/SylvieLaunch.m4v

(Don't give up on the video...hit "pause" and let it sit for awhile, then hit "play" again. It has to catch up to itself).

God bless,

Katie

Happy July 4th!!

2011-07-11T12:12:00.001-07:00

We traveled to the family beach house in Destin for the 4th.We had a great time, eating and visiting with most of the King side of the family. The munchkin thoroughly enjoyed the constant attention she received for three days in a row (now back to reality, kiddo). Thanks to Aunt Beth for the great pictures...I took not a single one!

Jackie O at Destin Harbor...wow!

You're getting veerrry sleeeeppy...

Captain Sylvie, as usual. Who wouldn't want Uncle Frank as a second mate?

Happy Independence Day!

What a cute festive frock from Aunt Kathy!

Three siblings.

Best of the bad family photos...patting Mommy's cheek is much more fun than posing nicely.

Nanie with the grandkids and great-grandkid.

A magic pelican.

Nanie perhaps explaining why the pelican is magic...

I'll need to get the scoop one of these days.

Enjoying the sunset on the bayou.

New best friend, Millie, a teacup Maltipoo. Uh-oh, Daddy, we might have to get one!

Matching dresses with Millie.

Love that Millie is "chasing" Sylvie rather than the other way around for once!

Sylvie reveals her true feelings about Aunt Beth...she's crazy!

I really think this photo needs no explanation...I fulfilled my fishing duties for the year. I'd rather be in the kitchen cookin' this thing than doing the dirty work.

I caught a grouper and a triggerfish on the same line...both too small to keep!

God Bless the USA,
Katie

JJ's 60th Birthday!

2011-06-27T17:52:00.000-07:00

We recently celebrated my mom's 60th birthday. Her birthday was actually in May, but we wanted to celebrate with everyone, so we all traveled to the lake for the weekend. My parents got a pontoon boat for the day and we had a blast on Lake Martin. The babies were fearless in the lake water, but the same can't be said for Carey, who did an eternal crunch trying to keep her legs from dangling, tempting any deepwater lake creatures. What a weirdo.

We also attempted family photos that afternoon and actually came out with several good ones. This is shocking, considering we are a family of toddlers and, let's face it, goofballs. Sorry, it had to be said.

Another highlight was napping with Sylvie for about three hours on Saturday afternoon. So nice and super sweet to watch a peaceful baby sleeping. Of course, a nap will always be a highlight for me as one of my favorite hobbies is napping.

On Sunday we drove to Auburn to go to Lakeview Baptist and have lunch before having to head home. Sylvie did fine in the foreign nursery, although the same can't be said for Bailey. She had a hard time and I have to admit I was relieved it wasn't mine causing the mid-service cell phone call.

I covet these times with family, since Sylvie and Bailey get along so well and I love for Sylvie to be influenced by such a smart little girl like Bailey. Mom and Dad "renovated" their storage room to make a playroom for the girls, and it turned out to be a great idea...they can play in there together with only a little supervision. It is really funny to hear them playing together. We're currently planning a time when we can all go to an AU game this fall, with the concession that JJ & Ferg keep the little ones. Don't think this will be a problem. They'd rather be with them than us any day!

I can't believe I took so few pictures...hopefully Carey has some I can get later. I always forget that my phone is my camera and leave my phone behind since everyone who calls me was on the boat!

Fortner family.

JJ, don't get mad that I put this on here...I want to remember that you were a fun grandma!

Cap'n Sylvie

Loved the water.

God Bless,
Katie

Tongue progression

2011-06-27T14:24:00.001-07:00

Another beach trip for the books...

2011-06-27T14:00:00.001-07:00

How stinkin' cute is this picture? I love my husband.

This past weekend we headed to Destin to have my bf and her kids at the house for the first time ever. I still can't believe that I've been friends with Whit for over 10 years and we've never taken them to the beach house. It's really unforgivable, almost as unforgivable as Whit never reading my blog, but that's another story altogether. Anyway...

We had a great time playing in the bay with her two boys. Sylvie genuinely loved the pure entertainment of it all. They are in constant motion and she ate it up. It's hard to believe Braxton is six years old and going into the first grade...makes me feel oooolllddd. And that's nothing compared to how old he makes his mama feel since she is even older than me. (Wink wink). Although our trip was cut short (really, don't plan a trip with us. We have a really bad track record of things not going according to plan), it was great to see them for the time they were there. It turned out to be a really relaxing trip, which we really needed. Plus I learned a new song about the bay that Sylvie loves! So funny.

We headed home early on Sunday for my dear friend's daddy's funeral. He was only 50 years old. I was honored to sing at the service for her. So sad.

Munchkin's new top knot hairdo.

Swimming in the bay (I spent most of my time on the dock. Those tiny fish freak me out).

On the kickboard.

Crazy Braxton!

This photo-op cost his mama a whopping $20. "Betcha can't get him to look at the camera?" Don't underestimate the power of making a deal with a six-year-old...they'll do a lot for a cut of the winnings.

God Bless,
Katie

Perdido Trip

2011-06-27T13:24:00.001-07:00

We traveled down to Perdido for a dental meeting with Parrish earlier this month. I thought it would be really fun to take Sylvie to the beach and pool and have some girl time...but did you know that we have girl time every day? And basically we did what we do every day, but in a hotel room? And that hotel rooms aren't baby-proofed? And that the munchkin's head fits through the railing on the balcony? Regardless, it really was fun. Besides having to pack up our whole house and move it south for a couple of days. Seriously, it was fun. Sylvie didn't mind the sand on the beach, but was terrified of the water. She didn't mind me going in, though, to constantly fetch buckets of water for her sandcastles. I didn't mind...it was hot! Highlights included getting to see Parrish's cousins Janna, Kayla and Janna's precious pooch Millie (whom Sylvie adored), Sylvie taking marathon naps in our bed, and Sylvie peeing in the elevator through her swim diaper. Oh yeah, and pitching monster fits while we had lunch in the hotel restaurant together. For those of you with a fear of eating alone, try doing it with a temperamental two-year-old, and you'll choose to dine solo any day. Did I mention I love traveling with Sylvie?

Sylvia enjoyed putting sand on Mommy...a lot. I hear it's a good exfoliant.

Sunbathing beauty (by the way, the guy that rented us our umbrella was SO rude. Who is rude to a pack mule toting a darling baby? He didn't even offer to carry some of our gear. What a twerp...I guess I interrupted his tanning session. Worst $10 Parrish ever spent).

Loves her glasses.

Obsessed with my accessory of the day, a very big belt. Also obsessed with getting to play/sleep/eat/nap on the big bed.

Had a fight with the cobblestone after dinner one night...the cobblestone won. Meet Sylvie with no skin on her little face...at least her nose wasn't broken. Did you know toddlers heal really fast? Truly amazing.

Refusing to sit in a highchair, booster seat, or regular chair. This is truly our biggest struggle currently...rule #1, we don't stand in chairs! (Thanks to Aunt Carey for this rule, but how do you %$*#@ enforce it?)

Watching the kids on the playground at the Crab Trap. This child loves other kids so much. If only she were bigger! She'd rule the roost out there.

We were treated to a silent ride home, as the munchkin slept off her beach hangover for three hours. Thank you Lord! Did I mention how fun it is to take a toddler to the beach?

God Bless,
Katie

How do you say nightgown?

2011-06-12T20:36:00.000-07:00

Sylvie says...

I really think this is hilarious, especially since she continued to say it all night until bed.

I'm going to put on my nigh nigh gowna and hit the hay.

More later...

Scaredy cat...

2011-05-31T12:40:00.001-07:00

Sylvie hates Aubie. How sad. All day, we talked about Aubie. We read his book, we looked at his picture, we did cheers. Before their fateful meeting, we heard "Where Aubie?" over and over. She looked for him, she couldn't wait to meet him. Until he actually showed up.

Before...

And after...

War Eagle!!

Happy Memorial Day!

2011-05-31T12:05:00.000-07:00

This year we had a super fun Memorial Day weekend in Houma with Mimi. We drove down Thursday night, shopping on Friday in town. This was great...got new pillows for the living room and new shoes for the munchkin. Two tasks so very hard to accomplish in Andalusia! We also visited a really cool used bookstore that I'm sure we'll go back to...Sylvie got some books for her summer reading. We had a yummy meal that night at Melvin's, a unique local restaurant. The best part was how nice they were to my manic, Energizer Bunny two-year-old. Fine dining meets CRAZY.

Saturday morning we headed to New Orleans, first stopping at Frank's for a morning Bloody Mary. Apparently getting a to-go cocktail doesn't just stop at the drive-thru dacquiri in Southern Louisiana. I, of course, find this tradition right up my alley. We detoured to visit the Bonne Carre spillway right outside the city. It had just been opened for the first time in a long time in response to the flooding of the Mississippi River. What is normally a very large "park" is now filled with overflow from the river. Very interesting for history/engineering buffs. We were glad to see that it worked and prevented flooding of that area, which had its fair share after Hurricane Katrina. As I'm typing this, I feel like I need to be fact-checked. While Parrish was mesmerized with this event, I was more concerned with making sure the munchkin didn't fall into the spillway and was also marveling at how much the guy from the Army Corps of Engineers sounded like he was from New Jersey, like Marky Mark. But he was from LA. Weird.

Spillway spilling.

Sylvie running.

After our current events lesson, we headed to the aquarium in New Orleans. So neat. I've never been, so I think I had the most fun. Sylvie liked it too, especially the otters. "Where Otty go?" over and over is soooo cute. It really was a neat place. We had a great meal at Landry's (another experience with a patient waiter who didn't mind fishing several restaurant items out of the potted plant). I also managed to make friends with a stranger when faced with a poo situation with no wet wipes (I know, I know, what was I thinking?). Luckily the place was loaded with kids, so I was rescued in short order. Seriously, for a kid who eats so little, where does all that poo come from? It doesn't make any scientific sense.

Daddy really wanted her to experience the aquarium. He'd probably dunk her if I'd let him.

Terrified of the plastic frog. Go figure.

Creepy white alligator that didn't move but had really big white teeth.

Mommy and baby sleeping. So uncomfortable. Thanks for the picture, Daddy.

We had a very relaxed afternoon/evening on the bayou. Sylvie played in the sprinkler, watched the baby ducks and kept an eye on Casey and Tiger (a 4-month-old German Shepherd that insisted that Sylvie was her toy...might've been Sylvie's squeaky shoes driving the poor dog crazy). Mimi's house is very relaxing and I spent a lot of time reading and asleep! Yay.

We drove home Sunday, making a brief stop in Mobile for a Target/smoothie treat. We are trying to find the munchkin a small broom or vacuum...train 'em early, I always say.

We're back to normal now, but it's lonely around here this week. I really liked having Parrish home for the long weekend. Too quiet, even with Elmo, squealing, talking, running, laughing, crying in the background. Next up: more time with Mimi here in Andalusia, a trip to the lake, a trip to Perdido Beach and a trip to Destin. Busy summer...oh, and they are holding Mother's Day Out in July, praise the Lord!!

PS...Go see "Water for Elephants" if you haven't already...fabulous. Date night is so good.

God Bless!
Katie

Not in the mood...

2011-05-23T11:32:00.000-07:00

In the last three days, Harry peed in our closet, the man gave our kitten to someone else and Sylvie pulled a kitchen drawer onto her foot. So, no, I'm not in the mood to blog, or do anything else for that matter, except drink.

Catch ya later when I'm not feeling so woozy...

20 months

2011-05-13T11:39:00.001-07:00

Happy girl (she often walks around saying "Happy, happy, happy!)

So ticklish.

Contemplating life.

JJ makes everyone laugh.

The munchkin is as busy as ever. Most people can't believe how big she's gotten...it is pretty surprising to see her do such toddler-y things, like run, try to jump, talk constantly and assert her independence ALL THE TIME. She is a real hoot. I really like the part of the day when Parrish and I trade Sylvie stories...if he had her without me there I love for him to tell me everything they did and everything she said. As if I don't get enough of her all day, I need the play-by-play when I'm not around.

Anyway, we are finishing our year at Mother's Day Out, and praying that they will offer a summer program (come on, moms, you know you need that day off just as much as I do). I don't have a "school" calendar, I just have a calendar, and Mama needs four hours a week to do what she do. On a different note, Sylvie received her first child bite at MDO, a milestone and good teaching tool. Apparently the cutest little girl you've ever seen stole Sylvie's snack and as she was trying to retrieve it, the thief took the chance to nip Sylvie's finger. I made sure Sylvie didn't deserve it before I reacted, but you don't take food from a King, so go for it, sister, and get back what's yours.

Sylvie has learned the word "mine" among many others, so we're taking every opportunity to make sure she knows that not everything in the world is hers and we're not here for her entertainment only. Such as, that's mommy's underwear, daddy's computer charger, mommy's earring still in her ear, etc. Such a joy to have an almost two year old.

One of my favorite new tricks is her desire to put lotion on my legs and back. Word to the wise, train your kiddos to do these things and you can have spa day whenever you want it. She brushes my hair, scratches my back and puts lotion on...in return she gets all of her needs met. Pretty sweet deal if you ask me.

We are currently working on colors and numbers. She knows blue and purple, although really everything is blue at this point. She also knows "one," "two," as in the bunny has two ears. So funny. She also sings the abc's, always remembering "q" at some point. Have you ever heard a toddler say "q?" It is very funny, trust me. She also said magazine the other day which freaked me out, and she thinks turtles growl and are ferocious (case in point when I picked up a box turtle on our daily walk and you'd have thought I presented her with a viper. I have no idea where she got that idea).

The other day she came home from Papa's house with quite a story to tell. It went something like this: babble, babble, babble, POOL, babble, babble, babble, PORTER, babble, babble, babble, PAPA!!! (translation: Porter fell in the pool and Papa saved him). Very exciting.

We've also decided to let Pete, our Easter bunny, go live at the farm (a real farm, not as in he bought the farm). He just doesn't seem very happy with us, as indicated by his left ear hanging limply off his head. I think he needs to burrow and sow his wild bunny oats. Bless his heart. I do think this is the shortest I've ever owned a pet, save my goldfish, Britney & Justin, that I purchased after my mom suggested that the reason Harry was so ornery was because he was bored. They lasted approximately 36 seconds until Harry (remember ornery?) decided he was in the mood for fresh seafood. My mom got the task of relocating the pair, since she was the one doling out cat owner advice. Anyway, wish us luck with trying to explain where Pete went when she asks for him each morning. Luckily her attention span is about the length of a rabbit pellet, so I don't think it will be a big deal. This does now leave us open to a new kitten the neighbors are offering...a Cody look-alike. Hard to resist a 6-week-old mew. Pray for me. Bye-bye, bunny.

Up next, swimming lessons and lots of summer travel.

God Bless!
Katie

PS...I finally made a perfect poundcake. This feat has eluded me for several years. Turns out it pays to pay top dollar for a good pan instead of a Wal-Mart special. Thanks, honey.

April Photos

2011-05-01T12:35:00.000-07:00

Sylvie loves blueberries and "cu-cake" (any dessert).

Being sweet in her flower headband.

Our day lilies are blooming every day!

Sylvie opening her Easter basket...the kid loves a pair of sunglasses.

Pete, the newest addition to our family.

Parrish and Sylvie on Easter Sunday.

Caroline drives Sylvie off into the sunset...a little like Thelma & Louise.

Bathing beauty.

Happy April!

God Bless,
Katie

Shame on me...

2011-04-27T13:07:00.001-07:00

...for not writing enough. I'm honestly just enjoying life right now, and although I'll look back and regret not jotting down every minor milestone the munchkin meets (how's that for alliteration, Mom?), there truly are just too many to recount, plus, she really is just growing up like any other 19-month-old. Sure, we think she's super special, advanced, gifted, call it what you will...so I'm hoping that my memory serves me years from now when she asks me what she was like when she was little.

The best thing that's happening is the increase in Sylvie's vocabulary. Not only is it funny to hear her repeat any word you say, but it helps with the day-to-day frustrations of trying to interpret her whines and grunts. She has an excellent grasp on so many words...the other day she pointed at the grass and said "grass." I'm sure this is because I constantly tell our new pet bunny, Pete, to stop eating the grass! She also understands everything I tell her, so even if she can't form a sentence, she can follow directions very well. The funniest things to hear her say are Ernie, powder, water, Porter, Catherine (KA-KEEN!!!), uh-huh, uh-uh, bubbles, eggs, books, Pete...

She also loves to wear lotion (indicating the need for it by rubbing her knees).

She had her first pretend haircut and style at Connie's the other day...after reading a magazine on the couch while I got my bangs trimmed, she readily agreed to her own turn in the chair. She sat veerrry still and let Connie pretend to cut and then actually curl her hair! I think she'll fit right in at the beauty shop.

She also let Parrish "clean" her teeth today at the office while I got a cavity filled. She let him look inside her mouth, brush and floss. Her favorite part, of course, is getting to spit in the sink.

Such a big girl, the highlight of our life. I need to take her to see how much weight she's gained recently...it has to be a lot because she is hard to carry!

I'm hoping to post some really great pictures that Aunt Beth took soon...have to retrieve them off of Papa's computer. She is really good at capturing Sylvie in action.

Happy Spring to you!

God bless,
Katie

April fun...

2011-04-19T19:50:00.001-07:00

Bathtub progression...

2011-03-30T19:54:00.000-07:00

Happy 5th Anniversary for us!

2011-03-29T12:20:00.000-07:00

Parrish and I celebrated our fifth anniversary this past weekend by taking a trip to Biloxi and NOLA. We'd planned on visiting Mimi in Houma for a couple of days and leaving the munchkin with her while we enjoyed a one night grown-up trip to New Orleans for spa and yummy dinner. Sadly, Mimi broke her wrist right before the trip, so we had a change of plans so that we didn't inflict a wild one on Mimi. We're hoping for a quick recovery so we can visit again soon!

So, Papa to the rescue, who volunteered to keep the baby. We decided to spend the night in Biloxi at the Beau Rivage on the way to New Orleans. We are not gamblers at all, but thought it would be a fun place to stop halfway to our "real" destination. After a really good Mexican lunch in Mobile, we checked in and headed straight for the blackjack tables. I wanted to do something a little more exciting than penny slots (Parrish's specialty). We had a nice dealer who tried to teach me how to play (I didn't know there were rules in a chance game) and kept referring to the "book." I don't know who wrote this book but whoever it is made me quickly lose my neat pile of chips. So off to the penny slots we went. We also enjoyed a really delicious dinner in the casino at an Asian restaurant. Butterfish is our new favorite!

I cashed out a little late...then the machine wouldn't even take this to gamble with...at a penny slot...would've thought that would give me 80 credits but apparently not in Biloxi.

After room service the next morning, we headed to New Orleans. I've never been...weird, I know. But no fraternity boy ever asked me to formal in college, so this was my first time. Parrish treated us to a spa day in our hotel (the Loews) and it was the best massage I've ever had! So relaxing. Parrish also had orange and blue flowers delivered to our room...so sweet since we met at AU! We then decided to walk around for awhile before our dinner reservation. Bourbon Street is pretty much what I thought it was, just less scenic. Pretty smelly, too.

More importantly was our FABULOUS dinner at August, Chef John Besh's restaurant. More flowers on the table, thanks to my sweet husband. We had the six-course tasting menu with wine pairings...I literally die and go to heaven every time Parrish indulges me like this. I love to eat like this...it gives you a chance to really experience a menu and it delivered like none other. The only thing I couldn't get in my mouth were the lamb sweetbreads...I really tried, but the thought of baby brains kept them on the plate. The homemade pralines made up for them, though, as did the French press chicory coffee. Chef Besh was there for a little while, but he didn't make it to our table. I did talk to the chef who was actually cooking that night and told him how great it was. Long story short, go there and have some of the best, most unique dishes imaginable.

After dinner, I had high hopes of going to listen to some jazz, but my tummy wanted to go to bed instead. The next morning we headed to the French Quarter via trolley, for some beignets at Cafe Du Monde. We stood in the takeout line for about an hour (so touristy) and ate in the park. I can now say I've been there but won't clamor to go back the next time we visit. We shopped a little in the French Market to get souvenirs for Sylvie and then headed home.

Riding the trolley.

As for the munchkin, I really missed her and felt bad that we left her behind. Yeah, right, she was thinking. She didn't want to leave Nana and Papa's house. She actually cried and reached for Papa instead of me. Heartbreaking. I will try to remember this the next time we travel sans baby and I will not feel bad! Parrish is rooting for this attitude, too, as he was the one who had to keep reminding me that this was our anniversary weekend that had nothing to do with her!

I'll leave you with one munchkin anecdote. She has quite the attitude and will throw things, swat at you, yell, etc. when she gets in a mood. Tonight she was throwing her magnets off the fridge and Parrish told her to pick them up. She did not, as usual, but we held our ground. I asked her if she wanted a timeout (we've not introduced timeout...I just wanted to see what she'd say). She said yes and started to walk to her room. I told her to go into the dark and stay by herself in timeout until she was ready to pick up the magnets. She IMMEDIATELY came and put them back on the fridge. She is so stinkin' smart and ornery all at once, it is equal parts laughter and tearing my hair out.

Happy Spring!

God Bless,
Katie

18 month stats...

2011-03-18T10:26:00.000-07:00

Weight: 19 lb. 1 oz. (5%)
Height: 30 3/4 inches (25%)
Head: 18 1/4 inches (50%)
2 shots given (hopefully the next to last set for awhile)
Pronounced tiny but healthy and above-average (like you didn't already know that)

Funnies...

2011-03-15T19:05:00.001-07:00

The munchkin is really chatting up a storm these days. It's hard to keep up with her new vocabulary...I'm pretty sure she'll wake up shortly and be speaking in sentences. It's freaking me out. She repeats pretty much everything I say or ask her to say, but has several words that she uses on her own. She also knows exactly what I'm saying or ask her to do but follows commands only when she wants to. Her sense of humor is great...she thinks it's hilarious when she gets in trouble and or when I put on a "mad" face.

Her favorite lines are:

Nah.
Hi.
Bye Bye.
Up please.
Help me.
I sit.
You sit.
Thank you.
Amen (she reminds us at every meal that it's time to pray, and then occasionally says amen throughout the day. Should this worry me? Does she know something I don't know that we need to be praying about?).
Uh oh.
Mama. Mama. Mama. Mommy. Mama.
Dada. Dada. Daddy? Dada. Dada.
Moon (points up).
Boon (balloon).
Bubble.
Baby.
Cat.
Puppy.
Mimi.
Nanie/Nana.
Papa.
Cheese.
Out.
Off.
Ho ho (don't ask).
Ho ho ho (not to be confused with the aforementioned, this is said when we see Santa).
Shoe.
Yes (but this is only a nod at this point).
Sshhh (with finger over her mouth).
Height (light...we're working on the "l" sound).
Juice (I gave it to her one stinkin' time and now she requests it constantly, exactly what I didn't want to happen. Argh.)
Wa wa (water).
Boo boo.
Oh.
Cookie.
Ball
Sleep.
Bed.
Hot.
Beep beep (car).
Choo choo (train).

Signs "more/want," "please," and "all done."

When asked, "Who does ______ love?"
Answers, "Me!" and points to herself (thanks JJ for this neat trick).

Animal sounds for tiger, lion, bear (all say grrrr), cow, duck, cat (ow!), dog, owl, elephant (complete with raised arm), bird (peep peep), squirrel, turtle (silent), monkey.

She points to the sky when asked where the moon, sun and stars are; stops dead in her tracks when she hears a helicopter or airplane and points up.

Hugs, kisses, snuggles, gives high five, blows a kiss, waves hi and bye.

Rocks, pats, feeds and covers up her baby doll.

Helps get undressed.

Pours and drinks tea with her tea set.

Puts both fingers up to sing "This Little Light of Mine."

Can identify most body parts:
Head
Hair
Arm
Leg
Foot
Toes
Hand
Fingers
Mouth/tongue/teeth
Face
Neck
Nose
Eyes
Ears
Boobie
Tummy
Bellybutton (uh uh...see Veggietales for explanation)
Ho ho (again, don't ask, that's just what we call it).
Bootie (PS...the munchkin bit me on the bootie the other day as hard as she could. I couldn't help but laugh. I guess I deserved it...it was just lying there on the bed in perfect mouth-to-bootie position. Dear God, please don't let her be a biter).

I know this isn't an exhaustive list but I really don't want to annoy anyone with my child's development. I do want to remember this time, though, and I'm really bad about filling out the baby book. I don't compare the munchkin to any other child, but I am so proud of that little monkey I can hardly stand it. She is a mess.

God Bless and Good Night!
Katie

Sylvie Sue is 18 months old!!

2011-03-15T12:35:00.000-07:00

I swear I didn't set this up, and I also swear I just turned my back for a split second. This is not what I had in mind when I asked her to help with the chores.

Saying "cheese" for the camera...not a real smile at all.

Playing at church.

Mama & Sylvie at church nursery.

I feel like I'm the new kid on the blog...

2011-03-15T09:38:00.000-07:00

...since I haven't written in sooo long. I have been reprimanded by many folks for my lack of blogging since February. I know, I know. But we've been a little busy/exhausted at night/playing all the time/sick/you get the point.

The main thing we've been focusing on for the past few weeks was the Red Garter Revue, my woman's service club's annual fundraiser. This is a community variety show that the club has put on for 28 years. I was co-chair this year, and Parrish graciously accepted the task to be one of the dancers in the men's group, a la Vanilla Ice. They did the Evolution of Dance this year...please YouTube it to get the full effect. I've had so many people tell me it was the best act of the show...of course I agree. Hilarious. We've had meetings, dance practices and rehearsals what seems like every day for the past month. The show was definitely a success, but I am glad it's over! I now have a year to get ready for next March...I get to chair the event! This of course is right up my alley...love, love, love stage performances of any kind!

Those crazy/sweet men who volunteer their time and dance moves for us.

Parrish and I also recently celebrated our 5th year of marriage on March 4th. We are taking a weekend trip to New Orleans in a couple of weeks, but actually hosted several friends that evening for dinner at our house. We also treated ourselves to a new grown-up canopy bed, something I've always wanted and Parrish is always so sweet to indulge me. I love it and it really sleeps a lot better than what we had before!

We got a visit from Mimi (Parrish's mom) last week. This was such a blessing since we needed some help with the munchkin while we prepared for Red Garter. After she left, my parents came to finish with tactical support. Unfortunately, my dad got sick and they had to leave early, missing the show. They never miss my shows! But I'm pretty sure Red Garter is cursed since last year I had my gallbladder out that same weekend. The theater will probably down next year since I'm in charge!

Today is the munchkin's 18-month birthday!!! She has her 18-month well check on Friday complete with shots, so I'm hoping that goes well. She is too much...I need an entire post just to regale you with her newest tricks.

We are headed to Fairhope this weekend for the arts and crafts show, and then will head to New Orleans the following weekend. Mimi is so sweet to keep baby for us so we can have a fancy dinner and spa time by ourselves. I think she and the munchkin are getting the better deal...they love to play together! It is so funny to hear Sylvie say "Mimi." She sounds a little tipsy when she says it, veeery slowly. So cute.

Hope you're all enjoying our time change and warm spring weather...I have to bribe Sylvie to come back inside after playing in the backyard. I may pitch a tent for her out there!

God Bless,
Katie

Turn up your volume for the full effect...

2011-02-21T12:36:00.000-08:00

Happy Love Day!

2011-02-14T19:28:00.000-08:00

Happy mid-February to you! We are currently enjoying some unseasonably warm weather, and I have to say that it has boosted my mood exponentially. Flip flops on, baby's on the porch, mama's feeling good.

Playing on the tractor at Nana & Papa's.

Sylvie is a mess. She has discovered that dirty word "no" and uses it with a vehement shake of her head, even whilst doing exactly what she's denying. So funny, but please don't laugh and encourage the munchkin. I have not perfected this skill, and she thinks it's great when I crack up. She loves to play pretend, from feeding her baby and Harry, to faking getting her hand stuck in the door and doing a little drama queen crying until I run to the rescue. End scene.

She is getting smarter every day, which is worrying me since I'm no brainiac and she'll eventually surpass my intelligence and start rolling her eyes at me. Oh the fear! She does know all of her animal sounds, my favorite being a worm wiggling. I will have to try to catch this on film. Words include Mama, Dada, no, hot, out, off, on, cookie, please, up, thank you, bye, hi, hello, cat, ball, baby, Papa, boon (balloon), bowl and I'm sure there's more if I'd listen harder.

Daddy's vest might be just a tad too big...

Graduated, finally, to a big girl carseat.

Brush, brush, brush your teeth every single day!

We attended our first session of MOPS (Mother's of Preschoolers) at the Presbyterian Church. Sylvie went to the nursery, sans tears, while I got to socialize/lament/laugh with other moms. I think it's going to be great! We continue trying to get Sylvie to acclimate quickly to "no mom present" situations, like church nursery and Mother's Day Out. I give her an A for effort lately, and if I could relax and enjoy that time by myself, we'd be doing great.

Parrish and I have been enjoying all the things a small town has to offer in the form of the annual Booster Ball that serves as a fundraiser for high school athletics...otherwise known as the "prom" for adults. So funny to watch everyone dance to booty music in their floor-length sequins. A great excuse to wear something pretty and see friends. On a side note, "booty" is Sylvie's new favorite word and she is quick to point mine out when requested.

Thanks to Durell for my pretty green dress, and Suzanne for showing me how to do my hair. It's fun to play dress-up!

We are currently preparing for Red Garter Revue, my service club's annual variety show. Parrish is kind to volunteer to dance as part of the men's group (eight local celebrities), and this year I'm helping choreograph. For a sneak peak, YouTube "Evolution of Dance." It promises to be hilarious. These guys are great to volunteer but even better to take the laughs that the audience heaps upon them each year.

We had a wonderful Valentine's weekend, dining at the historic Rawls Hotel in Enterprise. Sweet Halle came to play with Sylvie, and I'm hoping we've found a wonderful babysitter (she is so nice to her own mother and I'm hoping she can teach this FABULOUS trait to the munchkin). Parrish was so sweet to have tulips (for me) and a balloon (for Sylvie) delivered on Saturday. All I hear now is "Boooooon!" Thanks, Daddy.

Yummy dinner, best part being French press coffee with dessert. So good.

We celebrated with Sylvie tonight, complete with chocolate covered strawberries and lots of goodies from the grandparents. She has a party at Mother's Day Out tomorrow...giving out her first Valentine's to her friends! So cute...I'll try to remember to take some pictures.

Parrish is getting a much-needed boy's weekend this week as Sylvie and I travel to the lake for a visit while he quail hunts and plays golf. He certainly deserves it, since he's either working or entertaining two females. Sweet man.

Hope your day of love was sweet!

God Bless, hugs & kisses,
Katie

Beginning the month of love...

2011-02-01T12:38:00.000-08:00

Praise the Lord January is over! I kind of feel bad for the poor month for hating its guts so much, but that's the breaks.

I'm happy to report that today the munchkin made it through the entire morning at Mother's Day Out without fussing AT ALL. Granted, we were 15 minutes late, I stayed 30 minutes and picked her up 30 minutes early, but still, I think we are on the way up! Perseverance is the key...this will be the first life lesson that I wisely impart to my child. A good one, I think. She is currently sleeping off her big morning, also another blessing for mommy (God invented nap time just for me, I think).

This is also a great day for our good friends, Daniel and Laura Wells, who welcomed Lacey Jane today. She took her sweet time getting here (she was about five days late) and joined her proud big brother, Grover. I think she looks just like him! So cute and we can't wait to meet her. A new friend is always reason for celebration.

We had a long weekend in Birmingham, attending Parrish's annual dental alumni meeting. We decided to make it a "big kids" weekend, leaving the munchkin with my parents at the lake. Mom wisely called in reinforcements in the form of my sister and her baby, Bailey. My dad was on a retreat all weekend, and as cute as she may be, Sylvie is a handful, as in she never stops moving, talking, running, squealing, unless she's passed out. I'm pretty sure they had more fun than we did, and I think Bailey did a better job as Sylvie's teacher than I'll ever be. She is quite the talker, and I hope Sylvie picked up some lingo...I could do without the whole pointing/whining big that she has perfected. I'll try to get a video up of the girls later...

I had a great time stuffing my face for three days, as though I act like I never get to eat good food. Honestly, I planned my portion of the trip based on food alone. I really like to eat, and although I truly love Andalusia, the dining options leave much to be desired. So I embarked on a one-woman-gastronomy-tour, starting at Starbucks, PF Chang's, then on to Surin, room service, Flip Burger, Highland's, Chuy's, Starbucks, California Pizza Kitchen, Yogurt Mountain, more room service, and topping it all off with lunch at the ever-famous and world-renowned Bates House of Turkey. Yes, I feel sick even as I write this.

I can honestly say that the meal I had at Highland's was probably the best I've ever had, save all the meals we had on our honeymoon in Cabo, but being a newlywed makes your tastebuds think even cardboard is a delicacy, so that might not count. Seriously, it was divine. I didn't talk much throughout the entire meal. I would love to be able to have a career in food somehow, but our neck of the woods offers little in the high end food genre, unfortunately. Anyone want to hire me to be a private chef, let me know. I'd be so happy cooking fancy stuff and then talking about it. My dream job!

I did do other things besides eat, I'll have you know. I shopped, spent time with my bff Whit (who I miss more than I can say), went to the spa and watched "The Green Hornet" in IMAX 3D. Dorky to wear glasses during a movie, but definitely a worthwhile futuristic moment. I have put my foot down to a 3D TV...I just think I'd feel like Michael J. Fox every time I watched Dora with Sylvie, and besides, do they even make munchkin-sized glasses? I do think we'll take Sylvie with us next year...we can take her to the zoo and the McWane Center, and maybe, if she's lucky, introduce her to haute cuisine...

We are back in the real world now and have a fairly busy month ahead...mainly Mary Kay parties and getting ready for my service club's annual Red Garter Revue in March. We're also going to start researching potty and booster seats for Sylvie...any suggestions? And no, I'm not starting to potty train yet, but a girl can dream, right? And by girl, I mean Sylvie, not me...she loves to sit on the big potty. It's fun for her. Weird. And we may hit 2o pounds soon and she'll finally be able to face forward in the car. She's so small!! I don't want her to get a complex about still being in the car seat that she came home from in the hospital, so hopefully we'll get to make the move soon.

Hope everyone is doing well and don't forget Valentine's Day...I can make a beautiful Mary Kay gift basket for any of the special people you love!

God Bless,
Katie

January blues...

2011-01-16T19:54:00.000-08:00

We are in the middle of the most boring month of the year! I have always hated January. I think I'll plan a party just to have something to do. It has been really cold here lately, trapping me and the munchkin inside. I know by March I'll be dying in the Alabama heat and complaining about that, but for now, I'd love to be able to run off some of this 16-month-old energy I've got brewing in my house! I was able to do a clean-out for Goodwill...the most productive thing I've done in a while! We're also finally over the cold Sylvie and I shared for the better part of two weeks. I may have another sicky on my hands now, though...Parrish is taking prophylactic Tamiflu and steering clear of the baby...praying he doesn't actually have flu and is just feeling icky.

We did host some friends for the National Championship game on January 10th...my compromise for not letting my husband take me to Arizona (I know, I know...what was I thinking?). I'm glad now that we chose to stay home, since the whole event would've thrown our world into complete chaos what with the ticket/travel drama so many of our friends had to deal with. Regardless of where we were, we were so happy to get to cheer our Tigers to victory over the Oregon Ducks! I knew it was going to happen, but I was literally sick to my stomach during the entire game and Parrish didn't sleep after the game he was so excited! I can't believe I didn't take any pictures that night...I guess we'll have to rely on our memories of such a great night for Auburn. I was truly sad, but not surprised, that my boyfriend Cam decided to hightail it to the NFL. I will religiously watch whatever NFL team he plays for and cross your fingers that Parrish can draft him for his Fantasy team!

Sylvie did turn 16 months old yesterday. She is getting so big. I'm not able to list all of her "tricks" because there are just too many. She is a little sponge, and is quite the mimic (note to self...quit using any and all choice four letter words in her presence). Today she heard a dog barking outside and paused to say, "Dog bark!" No lie, followed by an enthusiastic "arf." So funny. She also likes to play tea party (feeding Harry from her spoon), play dress up (with my underwear) and rock her baby doll (then throw it dramatically to the floor).

Next highlight? American Idol starts this week. WOO HOO! You can always count on Fox to liven up the worst month of the year!

Happy January to you all!
Katie

Hello, 2011!

2011-01-01T10:21:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! We had a very low-key (lame) New Year's Eve, as Sylvie and I are sharing a cold. We grilled steaks on the new Egg and had a mini fireworks show in the backyard. After dosing Sylvie with a little Benadryl (more on this in a minute), we watched a movie and had delicious homemade lava cakes. Since I was exhausted (we haven't had a full night's sleep since before we went skiing), I was planning a bedtime before midnight.

Ha, ha, but the munchkin had other plans. Benadryl is SUPPOSED to knock out your tot, allowing them to sleep peacefully through the night. Not so for our little one, who was up until...get this...5:15 am. Seriously, it was like watching Munchkin on Drugs, complete with a midnight guzzling of milk. I will NEVER repeat this incident, mark my words. It was bizarre to experience...her little body just couldn't relax. We tried everything, but ultimately had to wait it out. Of course this would happen to her...she defies all theory and logic. I think we'll stick to Tylenol and other milder concoctions from now on.

We're having peas and greens for supper, and hopefully a less eventful night. I'm certainly ready for this cold to pass.

I'll leave you with a funny picture progression. Say CHEESE (she sure did).

Happy New Year!
Katie

Christmas with the Kings 2010

2010-12-28T19:03:00.000-08:00

What a month! It flew by, and I honestly think I'm glad it did! I thrive much more in a routine, and this month trended toward the chaotic, to say the least. First things first...I failed to put a photo of Sylvie in my last post and was fussed at, so here you go...

Wave yo hands in the aya, like you a true playa.

Parrish and I took our first Sylvie-free trip ever...we "chaperoned" our church youth group's trip to Breckenridge. We haven't been skiing in eight years, or left the munchkin for more than an overnight trip, so we were a little apprehensive (ok, ok...I was apprehensive and I had to check Parrish for a pulse...does nothing affect this guy??). Sylvie couldn't have cared less...she got five days of grandparents and cousins. She did manage to get a cold that my mom had to address with Dr. E, but other than that, she had a ball. So did we...we skied (I did great for my second time skiing ever), ate great food (think smoked trout, crispy lobster and a perfectly cooked filet), shopped sans munchkin, drank Starbucks, and laughed A LOT with our fun friends, the Cottons (Wade=champion skier and Suzanne=ballerina on the slopes). The actual traveling was the only somewhat yucky part...we had to drive from Andalusia to Birmingham, then fly to New Orleans, then Denver, then Parrish drove a 15-passenger van in a blizzard for two hours to our condos (he thought it was fun...the rest of us still have a hand grip fused to our hand or part of the seat lodged in our tense booties). It's not easy to get to Colorado, but it was definitely worth it. Can't wait to take Sylvie out in a couple years!

After a quick day at home (when my parents literally RAN out the door...keeping a 15-month old is exhausting and I sometimes wish I could run, too), we headed to the lake for Christmas with my parents and sister's family. Such a fun weekend...watching Sylvie and Bailey play was so cute. I'm not going to lie...Sylvie had a hard time, let's say, adjusting to us being home or being at my parent's house or being around Bailey or so many presents or goodness knows what. What a fuss pot. She had some good moments, but did end up sleeping with us for three nights...YUCK. I'm so not into bed-sharing with a snoring, kicking, hot little munchkin. I can't wait until I can put her in a sleeping bag out in the living room with Bailey. I'd much rather hear them giggle all night than here Sylvie snort in her sleep.

We did have fun playing games and catching up with my family...this was the first Christmas we've spent together in over four or five years. We had great food, tons of presents, an attempt at a Christmas Eve service (not so much for a 15-month-old), and SNOW on Christmas day!

Christmas Eve family.

Babies help un-decorate the Chrismon tree.

Helping JJ make cookies for Santa.

Munchkin's first dental exam...oh yes, follow in Daddy's footsteps, girl!

We did get to spend a little time with Parrish's family, playing dirty Santa and eating a huge boat of sushi before we left for the lake. Parrish scored a dust buster for me...I'm old and boring, I know. Sylvie received a great swing set from Nana and Papa...really a gift for me since Sylvie immediately calms down when we go outside. It will provide years of entertainment for her, I'm sure.

We are now working on re-establishing our routine and getting the house back in order. I'm sure I'll be bored again in a few weeks, but right now I'm relishing getting a full night's sleep in my own bed and getting chores done. I think I have a full-blown toddler now, complete with a HUGE personality and pretty strong stubborn streak. Tips, anyone? Seriously, I may need some help here, or some ear plugs, or perhaps some Prozac, or at the very least, a strong cocktail.

We hope you had a very Merry Christmas and are anticipating a wonderful 2011. We have no New Year's plans at this point, since apparently it's not cool to take your baby out drinking on New Year's Eve.

Our next job...watching Cam and the Tigers whoop up on some Oregon Ducks...which is actually so silly...when is the last time you saw a duck have any chance against a tiger? It's biologically impossible!!

God Bless and Happy New Year!
Katie

Best thing I've seen in a while...

2010-12-15T12:20:00.000-08:00

This might an old clip, but I love Cam!

2010-12-15T12:19:00.000-08:00

15 months old!

2010-12-15T11:52:00.001-08:00

Sylvie is 15 months old today! We visited Dr. E for a check up and two shots. Before we saw him, she got a piece of ice stuck to her lip and cold-cocked her nose on a toy in the waiting room. Great start. The appointment was right in the middle of nap and lunch time, so I knew we were in for some fun. The highlight of the appointment was watching Sylvie dance on the exam table to "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" while donning only socks, a diaper and Parrish's toboggan. Hilarious. The low point was the shots, one being MMR, with a 10% chance that she'll have a reaction to it, 7-10 days from now. Fever at Christmas, what a great gift! I'm just hoping she's in the 90% that is fine. But of course, since we're going skiing and out of town for Christmas, I'm sure she'll react. This information prompted me to ask Dr. E if he prescribed Valium for adults.

On the growth side, Sylvie is 30 inches tall (30th percentile), weighs 17 lbs. 7 oz. (5th percentile) and has an 18 inch head (50th percentile...good brain growth!). Small but tracking along like she always has, and Dr. E says she looks healthy and just has very little subcutaneous tissue (ie, fat). He did recommend her drinking more Pediasure each day and taking a daily vitamin, as well as getting more veggies (my Achilles heel...she's a fruit girl, not a veggie girl). Although I think it would solve our newest temper tantrum situation, he also said she wasn't ready for a front-facing booster seat. I knew this, but it would make it better if I didn't have to catch from backwards diving out of the carseat EVERY time we try to go somewhere. He also said the Terrible Twos start at one, and to ignore the fits. Come spend a day with me, my friend, and see how easy it is to ignore the passion at our house. Ha ha ha, I chuckle heartily at your advice. The best piece of news is knowing that verbally, Sylvie is ahead of most kiddos her age. I don't like to compare her to other kids, but it does make me happy that she's so aware of what's going on around her. A+, Sylvie!

Dr. E did report that they're seeing multiple Type B flu cases, the kind that is not covered in the seasonal flu shot that we received earlier this year. We will have to be cautious...this makes me nervous to send her to Mother's Day Out, but he also said that she needed to be around other kids and adults, so it's a good thing for her to go. I guess I'll just need that Valium until flu season passes!

The munchkin is now sleeping off her stressful morning and I'm thinking will be veeerrry hungry when she wakes up since we skipped lunch and went straight to bed. Bless her heart.

God Bless & Merry Christmas!
Katie

Busy bees...

2010-12-13T18:00:00.000-08:00

I thought I had more to tell about...I feel like we are constantly busy...but I looked back at the calendar and didn't see much of interest. I'm tempted to post the hilarious video of Sylvie using my underwear as a scarf, but since her tiny body makes my underthings look HUGE, I'm refraining.

We did take Sylvie to see Santa on Sunday (screamy) and we toured the beautiful Springdale Estate (dreamy). We then attended a Tacky Sweater party with our friends, sans munchkin, and had a very good time. Parrish's office Christmas party was fun and delicious, too.

This week we are preparing for our ski trip and then Christmas festivities in Andalusia and at the lake. I need my own set of elves to help me get all my chores done. We also have Sylvie's 15-month check up at Dr. E's this week. Wish us luck (and weight gain!). Anyone want to bet if I'll actually make it to Colorado without the baby? Seriously needing the trip, but dreading being gone for five days. I'll let you know how it goes...

We are super proud of Cam, by the way, for his Heisman win. My stomach literally churned during the award program, like he was my own child. I need to get a life.

Sylvie is learning so much right now...it's fun and interesting to see what you can teach her. She's mastered stomping now (we're working on jumping) and does this all the time. She also likes to get a cup and put it under the ice maker on the fridge when she's thirsty. And Parrish swears she said "hooray" this afternoon. I do know she can say cookie, since she and I eat them several times a day. Like mother, like daughter!

God Bless and Merry Christmas!
Katie

And the Christmas season begins...

2010-12-04T13:16:00.000-08:00

All bundled up to watch the Christmas parade
(even though it was a least 60 outside!).

Sylvie with the REAL Santa Claus.

Mama & Sylvie.

For some reason she BEGGED to wear my headband...
looks like she has a toothache instead of cold ears).

Cute shirt from Aunt Kathy!

One more thing...

2010-11-30T11:09:00.000-08:00

And just because I treat this blog like a diary, I want to remember that my child at 14 months is eating like a field hand/teenage boy and apparently has grown 1/4 of an inch in two weeks. Wow.

Love those Tigers...

2010-11-30T10:47:00.000-08:00

Here's how Sylvie feels about the Tigers and the upcoming SEC Championship game:

What a week...

2010-11-30T07:07:00.000-08:00

I'm attempting to finally post a good post about our Thanksgiving week. To say that we've been busy/overwhelmed/exhausted might just be an understatement. We started Thanksgiving week with Typhoid Mary aka the carrier monkey aka Sylvie bringing home her very first stomach virus. Yeah for firsts, but for real, this was the most miserable I think I've ever been. Her little body seemed to recover quite quickly, but I was sick for four days, and she generously infected my father-in-law and my mother, both who were called in to take care of her and me while I was MIA. During this time, I had to host my Mary Kay open house and attempt to prepare for a houseful of company for Thanksgiving. I made it through those days ONLY because of Parrish...he changed vomit sheets in the middle of the night, kept Sylvie happy, took care of me and cleaned the house, as well as helping me schlepp my Mary Kay products. He is the ultimate husband, partner and friend. I know I don't tell him enough, but when it comes to any type of difficulty in our life, he's the rock and I'm the mush. I couldn't survive without him.

Anyway, once better, I successfully (with lots of help from my sweet family) cleaned the house, shopped for groceries and cooked a Thanksgiving dinner for 10 adults and two kiddos. We were so grateful to have our family from Jacksonville join us since we get to see the way too rarely. I loved seeing all our kids playing together and I know that we just have so many years of fun to look forward to.

We also got to see everyone on the other side of the family at two delicious dinners at Nana & Papa's house. Watching the Tigers beat the Tide was definitely a highlight of the week, as was my sweet husband taking me to see the new Harry Potter movie in Destin. So good! Sylvie and I are now trying to get back to our normal routine, decorating the house for Christmas and organizing all of my Mary Kay gift baskets. We are enjoying our quiet time before the bustle of Christmas!

I can't believe I didn't take any pictures during the week (I was kinda busy) but Aunt Beth came through with her blossoming photography skills (should have hired her for our Christmas card...).

Parrish took great pride in our brined turkey...only took six hours to roast!

Mimi and Sylvie.

Do I look tired to you? 'Cause I was.

The 18-pound masterpiece (note to self: don't ever get an 18-pound masterpiece again).

The family and my crying child (she was a tad overwhelmed by all the activity).

Another wonderful thing to report...Parrish renovated our fireplace and it is FABULOUS!!

Before...

Ta Daaaaa!!
(We also got new remote controlled gas logs and a tankless hot water heater...
a fiasco but SOOO worth it).

God Bless!
Katie

TELL YOUR HUSBANDS!!!!

2010-11-17T12:19:00.000-08:00

I'm now taking orders for my Mary Kay "12 Days of Christmas" gift baskets. Trust me, you want one! It's filled with 12 individually wrapped gifts that are to be opened each of the 12 days before Christmas. This is a great way to get what you want without much work...I do all of it for you! I will select all the gifts, beautifully wrap them and deliver your basket to your door! This is a great idea for wives, mothers, mothers-in-law, grandmothers, sisters and more! Send me an email if you're interested and we can go over details. I will also secretly call your hubby if you'd like...hint, hint, hint!!

Please take advantage of my gift-giving service this year...I promise it's worth it!

God Bless & Merry Christmas Shopping!
Katie
king.katief@gmail.com

Mother's Day Out!

2010-11-16T11:40:00.000-08:00

Today was Sylvie's first day at Mother's Day Out at the Baptist church. Right now, she'll go for four hours on Tuesdays. I was nervous about making this decision, but I really think she's ready for a little more social interaction than nursery on Sunday. She really likes other kids! She was fine when I left, me not so much. She was VERY sleepy when I picked her up and wouldn't eat with the other kids (too distracting) but they said she fit in very well! She also brought home a paper turkey made with her handprints (thus beginning the endless school projects that I have to keep unless I want to hear about it in 20 years). I got so much accomplished in those free hours, so I think it's going to do us both good (I'm hosting a holiday open house for Mary Kay on Sunday, followed by Thanksgiving at our house for 13 adults and 4 kiddos!!). Other than a little mother's guilt, it's been a great day!

My first day of school!

God Bless,
Katie

Sylvie's One Year Photos

2010-11-12T11:26:00.000-08:00

Here's our latest session with our wonderful photographer, Vicki. We had her come to the house and this is in our backyard. Sylvie loves to have her picture taken!

God Bless,
Katie

Cam Newton is my hero...

2010-11-08T20:16:00.000-08:00

I love Cam Newton. So does every Auburn fan, but seriously, I love him. Here is a video I'm sure you've seen on Facebook already, but I had to post it. I cried. Not a little, but a lot. Maybe it has to do with Cam, maybe it has to do with my affinity for tiny rappers, or maybe that one of my crazy high school friend's mothers (Mrs. Hodges, you nut) is still being crazy in this footage, but for real, it's great.

As I'm writing this, I'm hoping that my opinion of Cam will stay the way it is now...that he is a genuinely good guy. I'm remembering when we watched the Tiger Woods scandal unfold at my parent's house and my mom saying in her best Scarlett O'Hara, I'll think about it tomorrow, voice, "Oh, I don't believe it! Tiger would never do such a thing!" Think again, Scarlett.

My point is that today I think Cam's the best, and I hope I hope I won't have to take off my orange-and-blue colored glasses tomorrow.

Enjoy and War Eagle!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T18:15:00.000-07:00

Our little girl one year ago...as the sweetest Tooth Fairy you've ever seen!

Boo! Hope everyone enjoyed a very un-scary Halloween! My personal preference for this day includes fairies, pumpkins and puppies, not vampires, ghosts and goblins. I am so scared of everything, seriously. I hope I don't pass this trait on to the munchkin and so does Parrish...he is training her to do all the things I refuse (ie, roller coasters, scary movies, scary stuff in general).

We attended the Andalusia vs. Opp football game on Friday night...Go Bulldogs! They pulled out a win over their biggest rivals, so it was great. Sylvie's mouth never closed and her hands never stopped clapping. She was SO excited and maybe wants to be a cheerleader/band director/football player? Everything was right up her alley, judging by her ecstatic demeanor.

Saturday morning we went to Grover's second birthday party. This was the only time Sylvie got to wear her costume, and I was so proud that she wore it without a fuss, even her stem hat. She had lots of fun playing with the other kids and eating what I hope was my crust of bread (can't say for certain that she didn't get it off the floor, but a little dirt never hurt a pumpkin!). Happy Birthday, Grover!

Our little pumpkin!

It is always a good idea to be friends with the UPS man.

We spent the evening watching Auburn football at the Grimes'...I'm pretty sure that Sylvie is going to be a tomboy since all her friends are boys. Where are all the little ladies in this town?

Parker is my personal pick for Sylvie's future boyfriend...she thinks his tractor's sexy.

After a big win by the Tigers, Parrish and I headed to our own Halloween party. To say the least, it was INTERESTING. Halloween always brings out the character in everyone, giving them LOTS of freedom to stray from their every day persona. This event was no exception. A fun night, for sure!

The scariest thing about our '70s get-up was Parrish's authentic facial hair. Yikes! Needless to say, he is now beard-free since I couldn't look at his mutton chops and Fu Man Chu without laughing.

My next few weeks will include planning for a large Mary Kay holiday open house that I'm hosting, followed by family here for Thanksgiving and then decorating for Christmas. Where has the year gone??

On a side note, Parrish has a hurt foot. We're thinking it will require surgery at some point. Please pray that the doctors will know what to do and it will be a quick surgery followed by fast healing. A dentist has to be on his feet!

God Bless,
Katie

Auburn vs. LSU

2010-10-26T10:45:00.000-07:00

We traveled to Auburn again this weekend to see the Tigers whoop the Tigers. So fun. Aunt Jan smocked Sylvie a super cute Auburn outfit that she wore at JJ's and Ferg's while we enjoyed a munchkin-free gameday.

What Sylvie wants you to think she was like that day...so sweet.

What Sylvie really was like that day...boo hoo.

War Eagle!
Katie

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-26T10:28:00.000-07:00

Sylvie picks a pumpkin.

Sylvie & Mommy.

Sylvie & sunflowers.

It was SOOOOO hot.

Sylvie is a sheep.

Sylvie rides a hayride, clapping the whole time.

God Bless & Happy Pumpkin Picking!
Katie

Step right up...

2010-10-21T11:58:00.000-07:00

We took Sylvie to her first Covington County Fair last night. She had a ball, to say the least. She ate chicken fingers, cheese fries, corndog and funnel cake (at last, something she got from me, a love of all carnival food!). She rode the merry-go-round twice (once with Daddy and once with Papa) and rode down the big slide with Daddy. Of all this, the only thing that freaked her out were the cows. They have a livestock area and she was EXTREMELY worried about the animals. No tears, but so funny to hear her uncertainty as we walked around the cows, pigs, chicken, goats and sheep. Animals we discuss on a daily basis, but I guess the Fisher-Price version doesn't do the real thing justice at all.

Parrish is training her to be his scary ride/scary movie/all things scary partner since he married the biggest scared-y cat ever. He can't wait for her to be able to ride the Zipper!

Not a lot going on, so let's play!!

2010-10-14T18:12:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd share a bit of Sylvie these days...13 months and counting! Hope you're having as much fun as we are!

Yes, this did result in her head getting stuck under the ottoman, but at least I received a fake cry instead of a meltdown.

Playing at Nanie's (how cute is that outfit??).

The following video is brief, but showcases some of Sylvie's quirks and tricks. Please ignore the bleeps in the background...Top Chef: Just Desserts gets a little off-color once in a while.

God Bless!
Katie

Happy Birthday, Parrish!

2010-10-11T09:09:00.000-07:00

We celebrated a big milestone in the family last week...Parrish's 30th birthday! He is officially old, although he says he doesn't feel his age (I feel about 10 years older than I really am, but he still maintains his youthful 18-year-old demeanor). We had a surprise party for him at our friends the Rall's land. After being blindfolded and driven around for a long time (what a sport), we reached our destination to find a bonfire and lots of friends. We roasted hot dogs and s'mores and enjoyed our faux fall night (meaning we pretended it was cold and good bonfire weather when it was really not). I couldn't have pulled it off without help from the grandparents, as usual. Sylvie had a wonderful time playing in the barn and getting super dirty. I hope it was memorable for Parrish...of course I managed to not take a single picture the whole night (doh!). Oh well, we still have our memories for a few more short years, until middle age hits.

God Bless!
Katie

Fall fun...

2010-10-06T15:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Fall, finally! We are definitely enjoying the cooler temperatures God is blessing us with right now, although it's supposed to return to the 90s soon. Oh well.

I'm having to look back at my calendar to remember what we've been doing lately...I'm that scatterbrained right now. I guess mostly playing with Sylvie, cleaning the house, Auburn football, Mary Kay, playing with Sylvie, repeat. Sylvie changes every day, so I can't even begin to write it all...I'd have to post every day! She is a sponge, learning so many new things it often surprises me. I'm learning not to underestimate her abilities...there's a lot more that a one-year-old can do than I thought! We did have her one year photo shoot on Friday...can't wait so see what Vicki has for us this time!

Here are some photos from the last Auburn game. We had friends over for brunch and Sylvie got to play with friends, her favorite activity. Thanks to Aunt Kathy for keeping her outfitted in darling AU gear! I will say that one of our favorite tricks that Sylvie keeps us entertained with is "Touchdown Auburn," prompting her to raise her little arms above her head, almost every time she's asked. She's a fair-weather show-off, meaning it will ALWAYS be on her terms, not ours.

God Bless & War Eagle!
Katie

I'm walkin, yes indeed...

2010-09-26T18:14:00.000-07:00

We had a great weekend at the lake with my parents. Order of GREAT events: SYLVIE TOOK HER FIRST STEPS, SYLVIE GOT HER THIRD TOOTH, THE TIGERS WON IN A GREAT GAME, I GOT A FULL NIGHT'S SLEEP, I GOT A SUNDAY AFTERNOON NAP.

Can you tell we're a little excited? We spent the day with my folks, where Sylvie played and decided to start walking. We're still in the brief Frankenstein stage, but it's so fun to watch. Then we got a solo gameday while Sylvie got some needed grandparent time. She rode the train, swinged (swang??) and slept without a peep. Such a sweet girl. Her third tooth was discovered when JJ heard that HORRIBLE grinding sound...like nails on a chalkboard (or baby tooth on baby tooth). Ew. We were so happy to watch the Tigers pull out a hard fought win...we stayed until the end of the game which has been unheard of in about two years!

Riding the train! No more caboose for this little conductor!

War Eagle (thanks to Mom for the adorable tutu and Aunt Kathy for super cute Auburn shirt)!

Beginning...

Middle...

End.

Sylvie has continued her new found walking skill here at home this afternoon, and I'm certain that she'll have it licked in the next week or so.

This week we're staying home, cleaning, decorating the house for fall, playing and working on Mary Kay stuff. I have several parties booked this month...we're gearing up for holiday. If you need any gift ideas, want to hint for gifts or just want to play with makeup, let me know! Free gift wrapping available!

We're having Sylvie's one year pictures made with Vicki on Friday...I'll be sure to get a sample of the "photo shoot" up when I can. Can't believe we're at the end of our year with Vicki!!

God Bless & War Eagle!
Katie

One Year Check Up

2010-09-22T08:10:00.001-07:00

Sylvie had her one year check up today. She was given a clean bill of health, although she is one tiny baby. She's weighs in at a whopping 16 lbs. 10 oz. and is 28 inches tall. That puts her in the 5th percentile for weight and 10th percentile for height (we've been on this track since birth). Tiny! But healthy, although we are going to add some Pediasure to her diet. She endured three shots and will get two more in a month, but has already forgotten the pain, as she's currently eating Goldfish and playing with her lion. Dr. E says she's developmentally right on target and that we should be on the lookout for temper tantrums (little late, Dr. E, we've been dealing with those for a while now...we have a lot of PASSION in our lives thanks to little miss).

Hope you're all doing well...we enjoyed a brief thunderstorm yesterday that interrupted our drought conditions. It sadly didn't last long enough, so we are praying for rain in South Alabama!

God Bless!
Katie

Pool Party Fun!

2010-09-20T19:14:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Sylvie's first year with a pool party at her Nana & Papa's house. It was a super hot day, so it turned out to be a great idea for all the kiddos. We were so happy that so much of our (scattered) family could join us for her special day. My parents came from the lake, Parrish's mom and stepdad drove from Louisiana, Parrish's brother came from Auburn, Parrish's aunt and uncle came up from Ft. Walton, and my sister wins the longest distance prize as she and her family drove from South Carolina. Of course all our local family joined us, too, and it was a great day!

Sylvie received WAY too many sweet presents, swam like a fish, smashed a cake, refused ice cream, blew out a candle, rode in a wagon, went down a water slide, ate pizza and passed out. Sounds like my days before I had a baby! Now we have a year to plan her next party...

Daredevil.

Cousin Bailey LOVED the pool.

Attempt at a family photo!

Sweet Sylvie the Swimmer.

Carey, Katie & Ferg (or Dird).

Beautiful cake
(I have the baker's contact info if you need it...
I love small town best kept secrets!).

Blowing out the candle.

Bailey shuts the party down. Last one in the pool!

God Bless!
Katie

One Year Old!

2010-09-15T12:16:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to the best little girl I know, our sweet Sylvie Sue. I can't believe it's been a whole year since you joined our family, but it also seems like we never lived without you. I am so blessed to be able to watch you grow up every day...you crack me up and stress me out all at the same time. I see so much of your daddy in you, and then sometimes a lot of me in you, but mostly I see you, Sylvie, a very own version of yourself. I can't wait to hear you talk, so I can know what's going on in that pretty little head of yours. I hope you like me! You're the best thing I've ever done and I hope I'm not screwing it up.

When I think about where we were one year ago, I am so grateful that we've come so far and that those dark days are behind us, leaving us with a healthy, happy, funny baby girl. I hope you know how much we wanted and waited for you, and how exciting it is for us to be your parents.

A year ago today...

This is where we started on the morning of September 15, 2010.
Boy were you a pain to get here!

Then we traveled to Birmingham so you could get well.

You're a good healer and were home in no time!

And here you are today, covered in cupcake, loving life.

A year has gone by in the blink of an eye. We can't wait to know you this year and all the years after. Today we start saving for your college/wedding/whatever you want to be fund, and we know you're going to grow up to be the best Sylvie you were meant to be. We love you, baby girl!

Love,
Mommy & Daddy

Sylvie Stands!!!

2010-09-13T08:55:00.000-07:00

First Auburn Game...War Eagle!

2010-09-05T12:21:00.000-07:00

What a great way to start football season...taking Sylvie Sue to her first Auburn game! Let me just preface this by saying that I was SUPER apprehensive about taking her to the game, and almost bowed out so Parrish could go by himself. Cooler heads prevailed (that being Parrish's, but he does have less hair than me so his head is always a tad cooler than mine anyway, but I digress) and we decided we could take her. We headed out Saturday morning during nap time, and she slept almost the whole way to Auburn. We made Parrish's brother's house our home base for the day, and had lunch and play time there before the game. Parrish and I braved the crowds at a bookstore for some much needed AU gear (I only own one Auburn shirt, imagine that), so we left the munchkin with Uncle Will. They were both fine when we got home, but Will did take a long nap, so we're thinking Sylvie won. We were hoping for an afternoon nap for her as well, but no such luck. Too much going on and certainly not enough time for her little eyes to see it all.

We headed to campus and tailgated for a short time, just enough to see some very good friends that we never get to see. It is strange to go back to campus and see it through "adult" eyes...I don't remember ever looking as cute as the college girls do now! It's kind of surreal. It will be fun to watch Sylvie grow up there, going to games and enjoying all the traditions. That leads us to game time...we made it to watch the eagle fly, the band come on the field and the Tigers run from the locker room. Talk about overwhelming...Sylvie's eyes were about to fall out of her head! She finally got into the spirit and clapped for the team, the band, the WEGPs that got engaged midfield, and sometimes nothing at all. She shook her shaker with the best of them, and talked about the game the whole time. In other words, she proved Mom wrong, AGAIN. She is always doing that. I thought we were headed for a fiasco, but she was fine, even happy, to be there! She sat nicely in our laps and smiled at the other AU fans behind us. She threw her paci in someone else's cup, but it was no bother to her! She shook her shaker in the woman's hair in front of us, no problem! We made it through the entire first half and most of halftime before we decided she might get fussy soon, so let's make a break for it now. She immediately fell asleep in the car, slept the whole way home and then slept all night. What a trooper. We did have a small meltdown in the church nursery this morning, but you can only expect so much from a baby.

We packed the entire nursery for a day of football, but Sylvie found the most enjoyment in the dog kennel.

Cheering with her new Auburn dolly.

Proof we were there!!

We are thrilled with our little tiger, and can't wait to take her to the stadium again soon this year. It was great to see friends and get to spend time with other families who have little ones just like ours! Hope you all had a great gameday, too!

God Bless & War Eagle!
Katie

Happy Tuesday...happy napping.

2010-08-31T13:44:00.000-07:00

After a very fussy day and night, Sylvie Sue has her second tooth! Please tell me it gets better. She was wakeful ALL night, but seems fine today minus a runny nose and interesting diapers. It makes me so sad that there's nothing I can really do to soothe her pain. I'll try to get a picture of the new pearly whites. I'm just thankful she's napping soundly right now, although that's probably where I should be too!

She is also completely weaned this week, which is bittersweet. I've gained independence from her, but she's gained independence from me and that makes me sad! I also scheduled her 12-month pictures and mailed her birthday invitations today. She's growing up too fast!

Our cousin Janna met with her doctor today and got a good report...she will start chemo for her ovarian cancer on September 14. Sylvie prays for Janna every night, and we are so happy to praise God for answered prayer. She has a hard few months ahead of her, but by this time next year, she'll be as good as new!

On a personal note, I have decided to become a Mary Kay consultant. I wanted a way to earn money and get out of the house each week, but also maintain Sylvie as my first priority. My goal is to pay Parrish's student loan payment each month (think second mortgage, people). The company has come a long way from pantyhose and hairspray (I know that's what you're thinking). I will be happy to accept your orders for great skincare and fun makeup whenever! Parrish and I really think the timing is right for me to start earning my keep around here, and this opportunity may just be the answer to many prayers! I appreciate your support with this new venture and am very hopeful that it will provide us with exactly what we need. Call me! Email me! I'll put more information on the blog as soon as I get trained.

We are so excited about football season starting on Saturday...WAR EAGLE!!

God Bless,
Katie

Lazy summer days...

2010-08-28T13:15:00.000-07:00

We aren't a lazy family, but compared to earlier this summer, we feel like we're on vacation! It's a nice rest before football season starts, which will find us in Auburn most Saturdays. We've been staying close to home, just playing, working and watching Sylvie grow before our very eyes! She is so big...I think she thinks she's about three years old instead of just one! We are getting ready for her first birthday in a couple of weeks, and the time has flown by. I know it's been a year (I was there through every excruciating minute of it, believe me), but it's hard to believe! Here are some photos of our sweet girl.

Starting to wear shoes, so we won't be so country. So far they've stayed on the feet!

Sylvie loves to unload the pantry...what's a better toy than a can of soup? She actually looks a lot like the Campbell's baby!

Sharing her snack...although she's quite the Indian giver right now.

Recent trip to see a natural spring...Sylvie LOVED the cold water!

New winter coat...surely she'll grow by the time it's actually cold here??

God Bless!
Katie

Sweet Janna

2010-08-21T10:55:00.000-07:00

We normally use this blog to keep friends and family updated on the fun things going on with Sylvie, since she quickly usurped us in terms of importance. But I'm also using this as a journal, so that we can look back and remember what was going on in our lives at certain times.

That said, Parrish's cousin Janna is beginning a battle with ovarian cancer. She was diagnosed during a routine exam and has since that time had two separate surgeries to remove both ovaries. She is 22 years old. She now faces recovery and several chemo treatments. I really can't think of a sweeter, happier girl than Janna. Even in the face of a serious health threat, she has a smile on her face and quietly entertains all the visitors that come to her house, even though I'm sure she's tired of talking about her situation over and over. Her resolve to rid herself of the cancer is inspiring, and I'm sure that she's the one that will keep the family in one piece throughout this process. Her faith in God is what is carrying her right now, and she readily attributes her peace about everything to that. I envy Janna for this realization so early in her life.

We are all very optimistic that in a few months, this will all be a bad dream for Janna. There have been many times that we wish we could fast-forward our lives, but I suppose that during the slow, "real time" is when God does his best work in us. Janna has already touched so many lives around her, and her situation will continue to resonate with people for the rest of her life. It's a gift she's received at such a young age.

We are continually praying for healing, peace and comfort for sweet Janna. Hopefully I will be able to include positive updates on her health throughout the fall.

God Bless!
Katie

PS...

2010-08-13T17:07:00.000-07:00

We just felt Sylvie's very first tooth! It should be in by the morning. How exciting!!