Girls Just Want to Have Fun

And Finally...Halloween!

2010-11-07T16:35:00.000-08:00

Okay, so after this post I think I am officially caught up with blogging! My sweet girls opted to not dress up this year...kidding! They were an angel and a little devil--which is why I said they didn't dress up, this kind of fits their personalities!

My pretty big girl

My little devil

My little devil was not in the posing mood...

Can't you tell?

My Girls Wanna Party All the Time!

2010-11-07T16:30:00.000-08:00

Olivia and I were introduced to public school "parties" this fall. I have parties in quotations, because I am of the belief that some dried banana chips, pretzels and applesauce a party does not make! But the kids still had fun, so I guess that's all that matters!

Olivia and Ian...heaven help me

And even though Ana Blair only goes to preschool one day a week they invited her to come for their party lunch!

She loves her fork!

Where is your bow child??

Pumpkin Patch Storytime at the Y!

2010-11-07T16:28:00.000-08:00

The Pumpkin Patch!

2010-11-03T17:28:00.000-07:00

Most of you know me well enough to know that fall is my absolute favorite season, Halloween is my favorite holiday (well, at least until Christmas gets here) and that the Pumpkin Patch is one of my favorite family outings of the year!

This year we went with our good friends and neighbors, The Farley Family

Don't you wonder what they are talking about?

The best attempt at a picture of all four kids

Mommy and her girls

Look at sweet Coleman, he loves Ana Blair

Daddy, Pumpkin Face and a Pumpkin

Olivia and Coleman searching for the perfect pumpkin

The search for the perfect pumpkin continues!

...And sorry I am still posting Fall and Halloween...I will eventually get caught up!

Young Love

2010-10-30T18:16:00.000-07:00

Olivia has grown up so much since starting kindergarten. But the biggest change is that she apparently has a "boyfriend." And this is the joker she has chosen. Haha! I am just kidding. He is actually a neighbor of our's and is a very sweet kid. In Olivia's words, "Ian is the prettiest boy in the driveway." Hilarious!

This is them on a field trip to Ijams Nature Center

Pumpkin Face is Two!

2010-10-30T18:05:00.000-07:00

AND in my absence, pumpkin face had a birthday!

Sweet Ana Blair,

You have changed our lives forever, you are the part of our family that we never knew we were missing. You are SO different from your sister, but there is nothing any better than watching the two of you together. You are so vocal, so strong-willed and quick-tempered. But you are so smart, so funny and just plain cute. No one can stay mad at you for long, believe me...we have tried!

You make every day longer (because you like to wake up with the sun!), but without a doubt--you make every day better!

She's a Big Girl Now!

2010-10-30T17:53:00.000-07:00

I know its been a long time since I blogged....so I am going to give it a shot again!

Last month, Ana Blair started preschool one day a week. I was a little nervous, but she LOVES it! Her teacher is Ms. Jessica, who was also in Olivia's room when she first started preschool and a good friend from church, so that made it an easy decision.

Here she is before her first day.

This is her "Take a picture of me, Mom" pose

And here is my big girl carrying in her lunchbox (as she has done every single day since then). We had to borrow Big Sister's lunchbox for the first day, because her super cute Owl lunchbox wasn't here yet.

Kindergarten Rocks!

2010-08-22T14:03:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday started her first staggered day of kindergarten. She only went one day last week, will go on Wednesday this week and then starts full time the following Tuesday. I'm not sure if that has made it easier or harder on Crazy Mommy!

The night before...backpack packed and ready to go!

6:45 wake up call from the whole family!

My big girl, getting ready for the big day

What first day of school would be complete without a pumpkin face??

This is Olivia laughing at the mommies and daddies crying in "The Night Before Kindergarten"

Ready to go

Me and my girl

She loved seeing the school buses!

We couldn't go empty-handed to kindergarten!

"We are so Fortunate to have you as our Teacher"

Walking in...

Down the big, long hall to her class (all the way at the end!)

Olivia had a great first day of kindergarten! She loved it and is ready to go back! And believe it or not, Mommy did pretty well--all things considered!

Although I have heard from seasoned professionals that it is the first full day of school that it really hits home...so time will tell!

The Beach

2010-08-10T20:30:00.000-07:00

I am finally posting beach pics! It was such a great trip! It was such a whirlwind trip! I wish I had more pics...200 is not enough! I am ready to go back!

The first leg of the trip was spent with our good friends, The Dunavant family...we had such a great time with our four girls!

Love this one and her daddy...two peas in a pod!

Our poor effort at a family shot!

...And The Shark! Olivia is so excited to be a Cookie Shark...I had to stop her from posing like this in EVERY picture!

I LOVE this picture of these sweet friends!

And who doesn't love a pic of Pumpkin Face?

Love her

She is my poolside cuddle buddy!

My Pumpkin Face

And My Sass Face...where does she get this?

My Water Baby! I hope she likes it this much next year when she meets Ms. Mildred!

Waterslide Junkie...we got our $$$$ worth, this child went down the slide a minimum of 100 times!

My life.

My reasons for getting up every day.

This relationship is too precious for words

What?!?

My Coppertone Baby

How cool is she in her Ray Bans?

Olivia got her hair did!

My beautiful big girl

Christmas in July

2010-07-11T13:35:00.000-07:00

Last week Olivia went to dance camp at her dance school. She loves the story of the Nutcracker so much so when I saw they were doing a Nutcracker themed camp, I knew it was for her! She LOVED it so much, loved is really an understatement. Friday, after their performance she came home and cried because it was over!

They performed two acts of the ballet and here is Olivia as a rat...

Sugar Plum Fairies

...and look who else was here! She actually really enjoyed watching Big Sister dance

The 4th!

2010-07-06T09:26:00.000-07:00

We had a jam-packed, but SUPER fun 4th of July weekend! We started Saturday out with our annual pool party and Aunt Titi and Poppy's house.

Pumpkin Face is not so sure about the water...watermelon? now that's another story!

Then on Sunday night we went with our neighbors to Fox Den Country Club and sat out on the golf course to watch fireworks...it was a perfect 4th!

These are our neighborhood kids...and yes. they are about 95% boys. Do you see problems in my future?

Swimming with Ms. Mildred!

2010-07-04T16:00:00.000-07:00

Last week we completed our 8 day swim session with Ms. Mildred! So exhausting, but so worth it!

Chicken, Airplane, Rocket!

Getting ready to start diving...Olivia had such a fun class, she knew all the girls!

Even Pumpkin Face made an appearance on Show and Tell Day!

She pointed and yelled, "Sis!" the whole time

And Pabbie came to watch this time to!

A Visit from the Tooth Fairy!

2010-06-21T16:35:00.000-07:00

Last time Olivia visited the dentist they told her she had some loose teeth...well, since then she has wiggled and wiggled. Last night, she convinced her daddy that one was loose enough to be pulled. That's right, SHE convinced HIM to pull the tooth! She was so excited!

So, we filled a fancy glass up with water and dropped the tooth (she named it Katie) into the water...

...And this morning...ta-da!! The tooth fairy had come, left a little cash and a pack of sugarfree gum and reached into the glass to get the tooth. The water turns whatever color her beautiful fairy dress happens to be that night!

...And the story is not over yet! Today, after swim lessons I look over at Olivia and realize that she has lost ANOTHER tooth! This tooth (Little Claunch) is missing. I am thinking she either lost it in the pool or ate it with her Lunchable this afternoon!

My baby is officially a big girl! A big girl with a lisp!

The Beach!

2010-06-20T16:46:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, Michael and I packed up the two girls and headed to Pawley's Island, SC with Melia, Ryan and Hudson Roller (and the one that's on the way...he was actually the best behaved child of all!). Michael and I had never been on vacation with our girls without the "assistance" of family. It was hard (we felt like we needed a vacation when we got home!), but it was fun!

Yes, they match. And yes, they matched at most meals!

Can you believe people say Olivia and I don't look alike? Ha!

Pumpkin Face

I still try to get a picture of the two of them together, and most of the time I fail!

Look at those tired eyes! Can you tell its already past her bedtime? And would you be surprised to know that she did not make it through dinner this night?

One morning (one morning? who am I kidding? Every morning) Ana Blair woke up early, so she and I decided to go for a walk on the beach.

She caught up on some zzz's

And on the last day we got a visit from our friends, the Dunavant Family! We are looking forward to spending more time with them in July when we head back!

All in all, it was a fun (but exhausting for the whole fam!) trip!

Its a Luau!

2010-06-07T17:49:00.000-07:00

Olivia decided she wanted her fifth birthday party to be here at our house. We had never had one here before, so I obliged. What trouble can a small luau, an inflatable and some cake be? Have you met me?

One day before the party, I was ready to throw in the towel. But, we made it through, and it was actually fun! And, as usual, there aren't as many pictures as I would like. I take 100 pictures on normal days, but just can't find the time on special occasions! I didn't even get a group picture or pics of the all the decorations!

Party Favors

Our back door, leading out to the luau

Pumpkin Face was here...she wasn't so sure about the 50+people invading her back yard!

...So she decided to take a nap with Nana

My little ham always gets a little shy when "Happy Birthday" starts

"...Oh, there's cake--maybe I should wake up for this!"

The Little Gym

2010-06-05T17:53:00.000-07:00

Ana Blair had her "Big Show" at The Little Gym last week. She is an animal, and she loves to be able to "run wild" at The Little Gym!

Introducing herself with Ms. Rachel

Daddy and Sister showed up during the class to support Ana Blair...she was SO excited to see them!

Michael had taken Olivia to her 5 year check-up that morning...she was so proud of herself because she didn't cry. Shots and a finger prick...I was pretty impressed too!

My Little Soldier

2010-06-01T10:45:00.000-07:00

Saturday night was Olivia's dance recital. The theme of the show was "Dancing through the Nations." Olivia was lucky enough to get to dance for the good 'ol US of A. I took her to get her make-up done that day, and she went from normal to crazy in about .5 seconds after she saw her reflection!

Waiting in the drop off line before the show

Do you think she was excited??

This is her on stage. Do you see the child in front of everyone else? That's not her. Do you see the child directly behind the one that is in front of everyone else? That is her.

Olivia and her daddy afterwards

Her bff Katherine came with us...what a friend to sit through 3 hours of dancing!

Olivia with Aunt Titi and Nana

Olivia and Mommy

My tiny dancer

Happy Birthday Olivia Kate

2010-05-27T12:15:00.001-07:00

Dear Olivia,

Five years ago I was handed the tiniest baby I had ever held. One of the only babies I had ever held, to be honest. I knew my life had been forever changed. But, I had no idea what those changes would be or how you would change pretty much everything that I thought I knew.

I was the baby of my family...a true baby, in every sense of the word. Most people probably thought I was too selfish to be a good mother. Less than 24 hours after you were born, my first test came. Tired and a little sore from delivery, the doctor came in and said you were going to the NICU at ETCH. We walked out of the hospital and headed straight to you. Just a little hiccup along the way, but that was only the beginning.

See...she was born with a hairbow in her hair!!

You have changed so many lives for the better. You were the thing your daddy and I never knew was missing from our lives. So many sweet giggles, silly faces and precious moments over these five years.

You were the first girl to be born into a family of boys in many, many years. You gave them the little girl they had never had...and all the sweetness that comes along with that.

You were the first child to be born into a family in many years. You brought back the magic that is childhood into all of our lives. You made holidays and every days fun again. Every day is an adventure in your eyes.

You are the most wonderful big sister in the world, the job you take most serious in life. My heart is so happy to see the friendship the two of you share and grow every single day. Ana Blair loves you SO much.

You have opened the eyes of your daddy to all things pink, rainbow-y and sparkly...and he loves it!

You make me want to be a better person. If only I could be half the person you see when you look at me. You show me the sweetest love in the world. And you have made me realize a love so deep that I never could have dreamed it up.

Sweet Olivia Kate, you are growing so quickly. I want to push pause every day when I am with you. I know there will come a day when I'm not your best friend. So, I have to enjoy every single second that I can now. You are an amazing little girl. You are on your way to becoming an amazing young lady, and I literally could not be more proud to call you my daughter.

Happy Birthday Sweet Girl

Pre-Birthday Lunch

2010-05-27T12:10:00.000-07:00

Every year we go to the Mellow Mushroom to eat the day before Olivia's birthday. I've told story on here before, but it basically goes that I insisted on eating there while I was in labor with Olivia before going to the hospital. This year we were joined by Cookie and Pop Pop, Aunt Titi and Poppy, and most of the Whitehead crew (which, in a family of 6....that's still a lot!)

Olivia and her best buddy, Katherine

Olivia and Carson

Please pray for me as these two grow up together...can you see the problems in my future??

And yes, Pumpkin Face was there. And yes, she retired to the out of doors halfway through lunch...restaurants aren't really her thing!

And afterward, we came home and celebrated with birthday cupcakes before settling in for a nice long Sunday afternoon nap!

Birthday Fun Begins!

2010-05-27T12:03:00.000-07:00

Olivia officially turned the big "5" on Monday, but our birthday celebrations are a little spaced out--mostly because her actual party isn't until next weekend. This past weekend Cookie and Pop Pop (Michael's parents) came into town to celebrate Olivia's birthday and deliver/install my Christmas present (which will soon be its very own post!). We just grilled out and opened presents...but the birthday girl deemed it necessary to celebrate in complete princess attire!

This girl loves presents! And yes, her presents are color-coordinated. And no, I did not do that! I have actually been lucky enough to marry into a family where the Mama Bear is as crazy as I am when it comes to certain things!

Ana Blair decided to help

Happy Birthday, Round 1!

Last Day of Preschool

2010-05-21T18:08:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was Olivia's last day of preschool. Ever. Sniff, sniff...

I can't believe she's such a big girl...I was a complete lunatic. Seriously.

With some of her best buds

Olivia with Ms. Jenn (she was our teacher for part of the year last year too...we love her!)

Olivia with Ms. Nancy...what a great teacher! We have been so blessed by great teachers...let's just keep praying that this good luck follows into kindergarten.

...And this is why I am a crazy person right now. This is Olivia on her very first day of preschool.

My baby

Goodbye preschool...

The Graduate

2010-05-09T13:16:00.000-07:00

Please forgive me if my blogs get a little sappy over the next few months. My baby is getting too big. This mama is getting a little emotional! Last Monday night was her preschool graduation...and I cried as much as I probably will when she graduates from high school one day!

Olivia and her preschool friend Vanessa

Onstage singing...she has changed so much the last two years! The first preschool program she was in, she was quiet and shy. She was loud and animated this time, we were so proud!

Getting her diploma...my sweet girl's future has her as a mommy and a nurse in the hospital!

They threw their graduation caps at the end...so stinking cute!

Olivia and Molly

Olivia and Kaitlyn

What a great experience we have had at Farragut Church of Christ Preschool. I literally could not ask for more! My child has learned SO much and more importantly, has become a confident, kind, self-assured girl that I know will do great in Kindergarten!

Knoxville's Next Top Models

2010-05-08T16:50:00.000-07:00

A couple of Saturdays ago, Olivia and Ana Blair were asked to model at Gettysvue Country Club for Strasburg. Olivia thought it was great. And Ana Blair actually did pretty well too! Three outfit changes, a modeling mommy in heels (Olivia insisted when they asked me) and hungry babies parading in front of people having a tea--there were cookies--resulted in an exhausting afternoon! Did I mention it was from 12-2 (know anyone who might nap during those hours??). But we made it, and I was proud of both of them!

Ana Blair was not going to participate in a group shot! And Bossy Britches was about to take off and drag her back!

Olivia Gets Her Ears Pierced!

2010-05-04T19:14:00.000-07:00

I couldn't come up with a creative title for this...Olivia has been throwing around the idea of getting her ears pierced for about a year now. But, she was never 100% ready for it to hurt. So, we waited. And her daddy scared her with tales of pain and blood. And one day, she woke up and decided she was tough enough.

She climbed herself up in the chair and talked to the girl a mile a minute asking questions...

She was a little freaked out when she realized they wouldn't be able to do both ears at the same time.

She did not even flinch!! Michael and I could not believe it. She just sat there and said it didn't hurt at all!

We were so proud of our big girl!

Me and my big girl. Every time she takes a picture now with someone who has piereced ears (i.e. me, her dance teachers, Nana) she yells "earring girls!"

Donuts with Dad

2010-05-02T16:46:00.000-07:00

Thursday morning was Donuts with Dads at Olivia's school...so cute!

Of course I couldn't convince Dad to take the camera to school, and of course you know who had to get in on the picture action!

Olivia's First Sleepover

2010-05-01T16:56:00.000-07:00

Last Friday night Olivia went to her first sleepover at a friend's house. She has spent many nights away from us with family, but this was her first time with a friend. I was a little nervous...I felt pretty confident that she would do fine. BUT...if she didn't...she was about an hour and a half away from home in Chattanooga!

Here she is ready to go...

I am so glad that Olivia's first sleepover was with Lexy. Her mom, Wendy and I have been friends forever and had many sleepovers of our own back in the day!

There they go...kind of a bittersweet moment for me!

But she made it back to me! And they had a blast!

Spring Break!!

2010-04-19T11:09:00.000-07:00

Michael and I were able to go to Key West with some friends over spring break a few weeks ago. It was such a fun, relaxing adult vacation! It was so nice to lay out and read a book and not keep one eye open on the pool and not dealing with a fussy baby!

Michael on the airplane...he felt a little cramped!

This is Michael "multi-tasking" when we first got there

Melia and I at dinner the first night...

Ryan "riding" a "bike"

I almost peed myself when I found this picture! It looks like my hair was eating Melia's head!

Can't imagine what they were laughing at...

Toes

Michael enjoyed the hotel robe...

Okay...this one was planned. Ryan wanted a matching picture of my hair on the attack!

They are so awesome.

Michael breaking it down

Dinner at Sunset Key, so pretty!

I included this picture not because of how pretty it is...but just to be honest. This is what I did the entire time we were there. Laughed. And I definitely believe that laughter is so good for the soul. Good friends, good weather, good food and great laughs...a perfect trip!

Why Does This Envelope Make Me Cry?

2010-04-14T17:08:00.000-07:00

Good question. Looks harmless enough, right?

Wrong.

Look at the inside of this envelope...

Do you see that???

It is a Knox County New Student Enrollment Form for Olivia Kate Claunch, w-w-w-what??

How has this happened??

How did this....
....Become this??

Happy Early Birthday to Olivia!

2010-04-12T11:00:00.000-07:00

From the time Olivia was two weeks old, she has LOVED to swing. She would swing in her infant swing for hours. I would have to drag her kicking and screaming from the park when we had to let another child have a turn. The most memorable moment of her life was when she got her first swingset. So, for her birthday this year Michael and I decided to bite the bullet and invest in a set that would grow with the girls. We went ahead and had it installed, so they could enjoy it during the spring months. She was SO surprised, and she loved it as much as we had hoped. She has matured a little bit because her new favorite part is now the treehouse, thanks to Kit Kittredge, American Girl.

Wild Child couldn't be bothered with the swing. She insited on sliding the whole time.

Easter Egg Hunt

2010-04-11T18:38:00.000-07:00

After lunch we let the girls hunt eggs...Olivia "won."

Junk in the Trunk

Ana Blair loved it

We had a great, tiring day!

Happy Easter!

Easter Dinner

2010-04-11T18:12:00.000-07:00

So after church on Sunday morning, we made the trip down to Spring City for Easter Dinner. Both girls conked out on the way down.

Sad, pitiful attempt at pictures. We had a slight "diva" moment because the sun was too bright, so the mission was aborted.

And finally, my sweet pampered girls got more Easter goodies from the fam.

Easter Morning

2010-04-11T18:07:00.000-07:00

The Easter Bunny came to our house!

My girls absolutely cracked me up...see where they are standing right now? Those are not their own baskets they are each beside. They were so concerned with what was in the other one's basket that they barely looked through their own!

Sweet sisters

This is Ana Blair's newest "trick." She "smiles" for the camera!

That Easter Bunny knows his stuff...pretty good baskets!

Preschool Easter Party

2010-04-04T17:26:00.000-07:00

I have been a little slow posting slowly, but hopefully I can get caught up soon. I know there are at least a good 10 people that look at this blog!!

My Olivia is usually such a delight. BUT. She can be a diva (I have no idea where she gets it--mama), and she can wake up on the wrong side of the bed (again, no clue where she gets it--daddy). Turns out Easter Party day at preschool was one of those days. If you know her, these facial expressions pretty well spell it out.

"Why was I only allowed to find 16 eggs?"

A brief moment of happiness so she could hug Molly

"Are you kidding me? Mashed potatoes, macaroni and DEVILED EGGS?? They expect me to eat this?"

"Will she leave me alone if I give her a quick smile?"

...And she's back! "I get to color eggs?? Nobody told me about this!"

Sunday Morning Photo Shoot

2010-03-26T06:31:00.000-07:00

I hardly ever get to take pictures of the girls on Sunday mornings. We are dashing out of the house barely (read rarely) making it to church on time! And by the time we get home, we either have some remains of lunch on us or just simply not in the mood to smile for the camera!

So sweet because she is looking up at Big Sister in this one, love it!

St. Patrick's Day

2010-03-26T06:28:00.000-07:00

A sneaky leprechaun snuck into our house and turned Olivia's cereal milk green on St. Paddy's Day. He left Ana Blair's alone because the leprechaun is a little afraid of Ana Blair!

Prayer Request

2010-03-19T10:04:00.000-07:00

I linked up to this blog: http://alittlepinkinaworldofcamo.blogspot.com and literally could not process what I was reading. Words cannot express what this poor girl is going through.

Pigtails

2010-03-16T19:23:00.000-07:00

Who can believe that sweet Pumpkin Face is big enough to have pigtails??

And she loved them! So uncharacteristic for Ana Blair, but she sat still and did not fuss one time while I fixed her hair! And she made a beeline to the mirror to check herself out as soon as I was done!

Happy Happy

2010-03-08T11:07:00.000-08:00

Thirty-one years ago today, my life was forever changed. I wasn't even born yet. But that was the day my sweet Michael entered the world.

There aren't words to describe how happy I am when I see (or more likely hear) you and the girls laughing hysterically

There is no way I could put into words how you are my love, my best friend and my favorite part of every day

I can not find the words to explain how my heart feels when I see you share a tender moment with the girls and I know that they have been blessed with a wonderful father

And I can't tell you how your sweet smile and contagious laugh still make my heart go pitter pat

Words fail me.

You do not.

Happy Birthday.

We love you!

Show Us Your Life: What is your Typical Day like?

2010-03-05T11:42:00.000-08:00

Because I'm tired of not having anything new on my blog, I thought I'd let you in on what a typical day in my life would be! Our schedules vary from day to day, but some parts are consistent:

7-7:30: Ana Blair wakes up...Michael or I will get her up and try to keep her quiet until Olivia wakes up.

7:45-8: Olivia wakes up and we play in her room. Olivia and I cuddle under the covers and Ana Blair runs around like a wild child!

8-8:15: head down for breakfast. Usually cereal or yogurt for the girls and a Diet Cherry Coke for myself (not a breakfast person)

Okay...this is where things go kind of crazy...

On Mondays, we get ready for Olivia's gymnastics class at 11, go to lunch with some of the the girls from gymnastics, speech at 1:30 and then home for Ana Blair's nap.

On Tuesdays, Ana Blair and I take Olivia to school at 9. Then, she and I go to The Little Gym at 9:30. On these days, I put her in bed by 11, so we can pick Olivia up from school at 2. Run a quick errand or two, then Olivia has dance at 3:30.

On Wednesdays, Ana Blair and I drop Olivia off at preschool at 9, then go to the Y (a new addition to our schedule), home for a nap and pick Olivia up at 1:30 and off to Farragut Primary for speech.

On Thursdays, preschool drop off, Y, nap and pick up at 2.

On Fridays, we do whatever we want! A trip to the Y, the mall or a playdate. Or on really great Fridays, the girls go to Spring City for the day and night!

Okay...now back to normal...After naps, we get up and play or run any errands. I usually get my computer "work" (play) in while Ana Blair naps and Olivia is pretty good at entertaining her long enough for me to get a few chores done around the house.

I usually feed the girls dinner around 5, then we go upstairs for bath time!

By then, Michael is usually home and we play in the playroom until about 6:30 and then its bedtime!

That's when Michael and I usually eat dinner and watch TV or just be lazy!

So, my life is pretty busy, but we love schedules!

Spring Trunk Show

2010-02-24T08:29:00.000-08:00

We have rescheduled The Cherry Tree 123 Trunk Show that was cancelled due to weather for this Friday from 10-2 at my house. Feel free to stop by if you can and tell your friends!

Where did she find these adorable models??

Cake

2010-02-22T11:55:00.000-08:00

I usually keep an ongoing grocery list somewhere near my fridge so Michael and I can quickly jot down the things we need. The other day I discovered a new family member has started making grocery shopping lists!

Bowling and Bouncing

2010-02-20T15:53:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday Olivia was invited to TWO birthday parties (again!), she was so excited. The first party was a bowling party. She had never been bowling before, but I thought she was funny when she explained to my mom that it was going to be just like playing the Wii, but with real balls!

Olivia and the birthday girl Vanessa, a friend from school

Action shot...this picture might make you think she was an okay bowler. Pictures can be very deceiving!

But the highlight of the day was definitely when the bowling alley had a dance contest for all the kids there that day. She won this! HUGE! What song was she dancing to you ask? What else--Party in the USA!

Olivia with her buddy Molly

And on to party number two...who doesn't love a good bounce house!

Happy Birthday Callie and Emma!

We were exhausted at the end of the day! Well, at least I was!

Preschool Valentine's Party

2010-02-18T19:07:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday was Olivia's Valentine's Day Party at Preschool. All the kids wore red and they ate all red foods!

This is what a plate of all red food looks like!

Spaghetti, ketchup, a hotdog, Catalina dressing, tomatoes, apples, strawberries and of course, a red velvet cupcake

The teacher took a poll to see how many kids liked each food on their plate...class favorite: cupcake with all 16 children (shocker), the least favorite: tomatoes (only one vote)

Valentine time. Have you ever seen 16 4 year olds trying to read their own writing and then deposit said valentine into a bag labeled in another 4 year old's handwriting? Let's just call it interesting, and leave it at that!

Special Delivery

2010-02-17T17:48:00.000-08:00

My children are spoiled.

That's really all there is to it. Although...at times like this, when I see how fortunate my little princesses are, I am reminded of the words a very wise woman told me once when I said that people had always thought that I was spoiled...

They are not spoiled. They are pampered.

There. Doesn't that sound much better?

Special delivery for Valentine's Day #1 from my sister (Aunt Titi) and Poppy. Olivia is at that age where receiving mail is the "awesomest," and she was not let down this Valentine's Day...

This package came complete with more candy than should be legal, Valentine's pajamas, a stationery set (Olivia's favorite hobby)...and what's that?? New Moon candy for Mommy?? Too bad Olivia and Daddy ate it all...

Mollie searched, but couldn't find anything for her in there...

Somebody LOVED the candy.

Can you tell?

Special Delivery #2

Yummy Cookies from Aunt Kiki

...And finally, special delivery #3...from Cookie and PopPop

It didn't take Ana Blair long to figure out that when brown boxes arrive at the front door that there is something good to follow...

a girl after my own heart!

This package came complete with stuffed animals, books and puzzles (seriously...we have all the bases covered: candy, cookies and toys).

They are spoiled--um, I mean pampered!

My Funny Valentine

2010-02-13T15:50:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day to Everyone!

XOXO

I Heart Them

2010-02-10T10:50:00.000-08:00

Who Dat?

2010-02-09T10:08:00.000-08:00

No, I'm not a Saints fan. But I just thought there would never be another chance for me to say those words and seem normal! Sunday night we had a few friends from church over to watch the Super Bowl. We had pizza and then everyone brought an appetizer and dessert.

You would never know it by looking at this picture, but I promise you we have seating in our living room!

We had over twenty people here and most of them were kids, Olivia had the absolute time of her life! And there were rumors swirling around upstairs that she kissed this little guy while he was being held down by his big sister!

And here is the guilty big sister. Not everyone made it until the end of the game because of bedtimes and school, but Olivia stayed until the last car pulled away. Can you tell she's getting a little crazy??

Simple Pleasures

2010-02-04T09:25:00.000-08:00

I've seen a few people this week listing their "Simple Pleasures" and have decided that's a really good idea...sometimes I can get caught up in what I would like to get done, the things I would like to own or how I would like my children to act that I don't always remember to focus on the small things that happen every day in my life that put a smile on my face.

The first sip of Diet Cherry Coke in the morning

My heating pad that I sleep on top of every night like a little old lady

New pajamas

New magazines or catalogs in the mailbox

A crisp fall night

Holidays and everything that builds up to them

Dinner outside on a warm, breezy summer night

A Sonic water with lime and extra ice

Date nights with my mister

The smell of a freshly cleaned house

Sunday afternoon naps

My feet in the sand

Standing in my girls' bedrooms

Curling up between these two every night in a "mommy sandwich"

This face in all of its early bird glory

This sassy priss pots who amazes me more and more every day

And the love that grows between these two more and more every day...

It Snowed!

2010-02-03T18:41:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, we actually got some snow! It wasn't exactly what we were expecting, but it was snow!! More snow than our southern bodies are used to!

We did venture outside to play for a little bit though! Notice that Olivia's mouth is covered in snow. Eating the snow was her favorite part!

Daddy and Ana Blair...I wish you could see the bottom half of this picture. You would find a grown man outside in the snow in shorts...

My little priss pots decided that spending snow weekends were better suited for playing games, watching movies and curling up on the couch!

Doesn't she look cold?? Burrrr!!

Ahhhh....much better!

She's Been a Bad, Bad Girl

2010-02-02T18:30:00.000-08:00

The other day I went to pick Olivia up from preschool...I went be-bopping in, getting my "Room Mom" on. You know, chatting it up with the moms I pass in the hall, conversating with the moms in the class--cut to: Olivia making a beeline to me. "Mommy, I got put in time out today," she whines. Ms. Nancy gives me the look and says, "I wondered how long it would take her to tell you. Turns out my little angel had snapped at and taken a toy from her BFF Molly at school that day. I will tell you, we are having repetitive conversations about "tone" and "respecting others" at home right now, but her sobs and tears almost made me giggle a little. Let's hope she has learned her lesson...but you know me. I happened to have my camera and couldn't resist snapping a few pics of the despair...

...And on Pizza Day, to top it all off!

BUT!! As a redeeming note about my little heck-raiser: this weekend she told me she had a surprise for me and disappeared for about 15 minutes. When she called for me to come to her room, her little beaming face was standing next to this:

Her bed that she had made up all by herself! And she did it herself every day over the long snow weekend! And a pretty decent job, if I do say so myself!

My Built-Ins

2010-02-02T18:29:00.000-08:00

When Michael and I first looked at the house we live in now, I fell in love with our built in shelves on either side of the fireplace...that is--until a few days after we moved in and I started trying to decorate them. I got about 2 shelves deep on one side and realized that I had used every single decoration I had previously owned and still had 4 shelves to decorate! So now...months later...my built-ins are no longer naked. They aren't perfect, but not naked!

So now...I'm turning to you for help and input...I'm desperate!

I'm participating in Tabletop Tuesday at gritsglamour.blogspot.com

Teddy Bear Breakfast and Pajama Day

2010-02-01T16:30:00.000-08:00

Last week Olivia had Teddy Bear Breakfast and Pajama Day at school...how awesome would it be to have Pajama Day in real life? Oh, who am I kidding...most days are spent in sweats anyway!!

The kids had pancakes for lunch and made "Bear Mix." They also went on a scavenger hunt following the bear paws...such a fun day!

Aren't they all so cute in their pj's? And yes...that is a bear skin rug they are crawling on.

The Big Show

2010-01-31T07:52:00.000-08:00

This year was Ana Blair's first semester at The Little Gym. At the beginning of the year, we weren't so sure if TLG was meant for Ana Blair, but by the end--she LOVED it! She was the child screaming as we walked to the car. They had their "Big Show" the other day, so I snapped a few pictures...

This is Ana Blair receiving her "ribbon" on the pedestal...you notice its not in her hand because she promptly threw it down on the ground!

A failed attempt to get a group picture...

Not the most flattering picture of Ana Blair, but definitely funny...I think this one shows how much she loves The Little Gym now

Going for a ride on the parachute

How the Other Half Lives

2010-01-24T17:57:00.000-08:00

Most of you know that Michael and I (and our girls) are very lucky to have family close enough to us, that we get to enjoy a few weekends here and there to ourselves...and let's be honest--the kids don't hate it either! And most of you know that my children are semi-groomed at all times, usually with a giant bow in their head! But, I learned a long time ago that grandparents do things VERY differently from Mom and Dad. And if I want to continue to enjoy my child-free moments, then I would have to learn to accept this. That said, a while back I had to borrow Pattie's camera for something because I had forgotten mine. When I sat down to upload the pictures to my computer, I was met with a few images that had me laughing. And I thought I would share.

This picture was taken at the beach. Wait a minute...I WAS THERE! Where was I when my child was dressed like a hobo?? Please note that she is wearing shoes--she went out like this.

Really? Instead of taking Ana Blair's hand out of the toilet and putting the lid down we decide to grab a camera? Really??

These are some strange children I found amidst the pictures...clearly not mine.

Those aren't teeth in Ana Blair's head. Those are marshmallows. And she's wearing pajamas, which means one of three things. 1. Its first thing in the morning and we're having marshmallows. 2. Its right before bedtime and we're having marshmallows. or 3. We spent all day in our pajamas (which doesn't by any means mean that we spent the entire day at home...no, no, no...I'm sure this day entailed breakfast at The Ketch-a-Bite, a trip to the beauty shop, by the bank, stop in to see Great-Granny, lunch with Kiki and Titi and The Red Barn and probably on to church or somewhere like that).

I guess this one was too good not to post twice??

What?? This is how I roll...toast and eggs kicked back on the couch.

What? Don't you hang out on porches with an army of snowpeople?? Its like she's the lead singer of their band.

Spring is Here!

2010-01-21T14:20:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to invite anyone who is interested to my house Friday, January 29 from 11-4 for a Kelly's Kids party! Drop in anytime you can...

And...as a special bonus...Melia from The Cherry Tree 123 will be here with her spring samples!

Message me if you need directions!

Daddy Daughter Dance

2010-01-17T16:51:00.000-08:00

Last week was one of the highlights of Olivia's dance year...Daddy Daughter Dance Week. She and I had been looking forward to it for weeks! Not so sure about Daddy, but he was definitely a trooper!

There are a lot of pictures and they are in complete random order, but I just couldn't narrow it down!

They made the daddies do the "crab walk" across the dance floor...all I can say is I'm glad the mommies didn't have to do it because I know one mommy that may not have made it!

Ana Blair wanted in on some of the action

Teddy Bear Dance...priceless.

Olivia was upset though because she had been planning to get Daddy the Smokey dog they have there for the kids to pick from but someone beat her to him!

Ana Blair enjoyed as much of it as she could and then decided she could use some snuggle time!

This one is my favorite

Another really great moment...shoe changing time. Daddy was helping her, but Olivia decided she needed a lip gloss break first.

More glossing...

This is the look Olivia reserves only for her Daddy

Daddy Daughter Dance Week was so fun and funny...but it really does serve as a reminder as to what a great Daddy Olivia has. Not just any Dad would do the Teddy Bear Dance!

My Little Book Worm

2010-01-14T07:14:00.000-08:00

Olivia is dying to learn to read. Seriously, the child wants it so bad...yesterday at Target she asked if she could have a book and headed over to the teenage section. She wants books with NO pictures. She will sit with her American Girl book or Wizard of Oz book forever, just staring at the pages. So, I decided she was ready for she and I to start reading a chapter every night before bed of Kit Kittredge. So far, she loves it. She listens and asks questions. I think I was as excited as her the first night...I myself was a book worm at one time (you know, before kids, when you had time to read books other than The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Pinkalicious).

She's getting too big...

Rocky Top Sign

2010-01-12T18:37:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not...I had actually been considering ordering this sign for Michael's office...then the unfortunate coaching news broke...

Oh well...I guess Knoxville always will be Home Sweet Home no matter who our coach is!

My Girl Likes to Party All the Time!

2010-01-12T17:21:00.000-08:00

In this long, cold and basically depressing month of January, my kids have partied! We have had three birthday parties since Christmas--Olivia LOVES to go to birthday parties (I think, in part because of goodie bags!). But last Saturday night, this little pumpkin face went to her first birthday party. Her little friend Cole, from The Little Gym had a party there and they invited Ana Blair and Olivia.

About a thousand years ago when Olivia was in classes at the Little Gym, she had a class with this little guy (he's the big brother of the birthday boy) and by chance Ana Blair ended up in class with their second child. I actually have a picture of Olivia and Keylar when they were close to Ana Blair's age I will post.

Then, that same night we headed to another gymnastics party. This time, a friend of Olivia's from church. Ana Blair loved sitting on the trampoline and letting some of the bigger girls bounce her around.

Said bouncing

And Olivia got to go to a party at The Groovy Pad for her buddy Kaitlyn...she loves that girl and loves that place, so it was a win-win.

Olivia and Kaitlyn after their makeovers...Olivia was especially excited because they put EXTENSIONS in her hair...yes. You read that correctly, extensions.

Snow-ish Day!

2010-01-11T12:43:00.000-08:00

Last week we had a snow day! Not really a lot of snow here, but the roads were icy and we stayed home all day (never mind the fact that it was Friday and we would have been home all day anyway!). We started out the day all bundled up in what else..."shoes" pajamas!

And we played. And played and played...do you see all that junk behind them?

And all of that before 8am...don't forget Ana Blair is an early riser! Daddy made cinnamon rolls for breakfast, yum!

And we made hot chocolate...and we took about 2 sips of it and asked for water in order to be more "healthy" (read: because we don't like hot drinks)

And we changed clothes 800 times

And we finished the weekend off by running in after church Sunday night to watch the last minute of the Tennessee basketball game...

Yay! Go Vols!

Fancy Times with Lexy and Lilah!

2010-01-07T08:32:00.000-08:00

Last week Olivia, Ana Blair and I were finally able to meet up with Wendy, Lexy and Lilah for "Christmas." We were supposed to do this the week before, but the stomach bug got in the way! We ended up meeting halfway in the glamorous town of Athens. The plan was to eat a normal lunch, then take them to McDonald's for ice cream and playtime...little did we know the playground was outside, so playtime turned into driving everyone in the restaurant crazy.

Sweet Lilah and Ana Blair...so happy these two will get to grow up friends like Olivia and Lexy have!

Super classy group shot in front of the trash cans at McDonald's. Notice how my child is chewing on Lilah's Christmas present?? Let me make a recommendation to you...DO NOT buy another child a baby doll just like the one you have at home just because you think she will like it. Second child will think it is her's and scream if anyone takes it from her!!

And finally...this picture is so telling of the afternoon!

15 Months!

2010-01-04T10:48:00.000-08:00

This little pumpkin face is 15 months old!!

She went for her 15 months well visit today and weighed in at 22 lbs. 8 oz. and was 30 1/4 inches long. She is almost running, and starting to climb. She DOES NOT like the word NO!! She is finally starting to get into books and her favorites are Dog and Cookie's Week. She talks a lot, and even has several phrases she regularly says..."I Got It," "I Want That," "What's This?" and "I Dropped It." She continues to be a great sleeper, she sleeps for 12 hours at night and naps between 3 and 4 hours every day. She is still an early riser though! This month she realized how much she loves her sister and hugs her every morning when she sees her and in the bath. She also takes her hand and leads Olivia up and down the hall, so cute!

This is big sister at 15 months...do you think they look the same?

Happy 2010!

2010-01-02T17:21:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everybody! We had a great new year ringing it in with old and new friends. The Roller's came into town and we went to dinner and then went to a little get together at a neighbor's house...lots of laughs to say the least.

My Christmas Elves

2009-12-29T10:51:00.000-08:00

Inside the Claunch household--elves exist. Seriously. For my very last Christmas post, I thought it would be fun to show some of the hijinks all 3 of our elves got into this year! These are in random order. Here is Jingle Belle Tinsel ready to go to the Polar Express. Olivia almost had a heart attack when she looked over in Ana Blair's empty carseat and found him trying to hitch a ride back to the North Pole with us.

One morning, he brought a date back from the North Pole!

These are the more mischevious elves that live at my house. They move around all the time and don't care if you see them...and they're always up to something!
Seriously, I love this. Ana Blair has fallen for Olivia. When Olivia gets up in the morning Ana Blair runs to hug her. She will take Olivia's hand and lead her up and down the hall 100 times in a row. And sweet Olivia just lets her!

Jingle Belle Tinsel went fishing for goldfish one morning!

Crazy elves

This should have been my "Have a Wild Christmas" picture

Elves on the Shelf

Baby Elf loved the Christmas tree lights this year. If it wasn't on, she demanded it be plugged up. She also learned a new word, "lights."

Sassy elf...I'm pretty sure I could find a picture of myself in this same pose with a side ponytail, cheerleading uniform and some pom poms in front of me!

I hope everyone had a great Christmas! As you know, I am such a sucker for the holidays and I really and truly believe that Christmas is magical. I think its amazing that ordinary days or activities turn into memories that you will have for a lifetime. I think that's why I tend to go overboard (what?? me?? nooooo....) trying to make everything as special as I can because you never know what small thing will be the one they remember forever. For instance, the teddy bear that Santa hurriedly picked up at the last minute because someone decided a few short days before Christmas that they wanted one...and that night Olivia telling her daddy in bed that it was the exact same teddy bear she had dreamed about and wanted so, so bad.

Have a Happy New Year everyone!

He Came!

2009-12-29T10:40:00.000-08:00

Santa Claus came to our house!

Christmas morning

Ana Blair is wondering what on earth happened while she was sleeping

"Wait...excuse me...I've got to take a call"

All done!

Christmas Eve

2009-12-28T10:53:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve Dinner was at our house this year. I didn't know if I was going to make it, since I spent all day Wednesday sick...but by Thursday morning, I felt fairly human. So, I did what I never thought I would do, I headed to the grocery store on Christmas Eve morning! I got everything I needed and came home and had a really peaceful and relaxing day with Michael and the girls.

Dinner is served

Leaving cookies and milk out for Santa...hope he doesn't make a mess with those cookies (doesn't he know about Daddy's rule that sugar cookies with sprinkles have to be eaten outside??)!

Getting ready for bed

Reading "The Night Before Christmas," our Christmas Eve tradition. The night before we read "The Night Before the Night Before Christmas" where Mom is so sick (sadly true at our house)

Do you think she is excited for Santa to come??

Christmas at Titi and Poppy's House

2009-12-28T10:38:00.000-08:00

Last Tuesday (before the dreaded stomach virus attacked me), we headed to my sister's house for Christmas. Teresa always does such an amazing job decorating, I thought I would show off her decorations a little bit...

Santa bag

This is the tree upstairs. See all those presents? Those were Olivia's and Ana Blair's...spoiled.

Olivia had a blast opening her presents. Teresa got her a ton of new dress up stuff and now, thank goodness...Kit has her very own bed.

Her pride and joy...the Grinch room

Polar Express!

2009-12-24T19:09:00.000-08:00

The Polar Express...by far my very most favorite Christmas family tradition...this year, however, it seems as though the cards were stacked against us. The interstate is closed...not a problem for Ms. Christmas Spirit! We will drive the back way to Bryson City, NC--otherwise known as "The Dragon"--never heard of it, not going to deter me from my destination. Snowstorm, hahaha! reschedule the trip! We will go on Monday, rather than Friday because 18 inches of snow will have melted by then, right??

Well, after a couple hours of me almost throwing up, wetting my pants and being called every unkind word that Michael could think of that was appropriate for a 4 year old to hear...we arrived--safe and sound! I should have taken pictures of some of the trip, but I couldn't because Michael made me lay my seat down so I couldn't see what was going on and make him even more nervous than he already was. So, Michael and I did our best to put the trip in the pitch black darkness that we had ahead of us and enjoy our journey to the North Pole.

Tickets...tickets please!

Hot, hot, hot chocolate! (Really, lukewarm hot chocolate, but you know who managed to spill it on our gown before pulling out of the station!)

Pulling into the North Pole...did you know that's Santa's house??

I haven't lost my mind. We were singing Rudolph and we were supposed to be doing that. Don't ask me why the 4 year old was laughing hysterically at her mom

Santa just boarded the train!

Do you think she's excited??

The first gift of Christmas!

I imagine Olivia's head is thinking something like this..."I won't be dumb enough to lose this bell because of a stupid hole in my robe...nope I'm keeping this thing safe."

Caroling on the way back

Next year, we will be brave enough (IF the interstate is open) to take Ana Blair with us!

Not A Creature Was Stirring...

2009-12-24T19:07:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas Everyone!

He's Knows if You've Been Bad or Good...

2009-12-22T12:31:00.000-08:00

To be the holiday lunatic that I am...I actually married the right man. All 6 foot 4 inches of him loves the holidays as much as I do! However, the holiday hustle and bustle brings along some mixed blessings for my family. This is Michael's very busy season at work...seriously. Bad because I have been a single mom since October 1 (at least 5 or 6 days a week). Good because oh...I don't know...we have a roof over our head that I can cover every single inch with glitter and Christmas cheer!

HOWEVER...this past Saturday, I was trying to figure out what I was going to do all day with my two little elves, when what to my wondering eyes should appear...but DADDY! saying he was home for the day with us. And--wait for it--he wanted to take us for breakfast at Mimi's and to Pigeon Forge to the Christmas Place for a visit with Jolly Ole St. Nick!

We (my girls and I) are very lucky and blessed to have this sweet teddy bear of a man (Michael, not Santa--even though Santa is pretty great!) in our lives...even though we sometimes forget to tell him.

Have a Wild Christmas!

2009-12-21T10:00:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

2009

Ghosts of Christmases Past

2009-12-21T09:49:00.000-08:00

I thought it would be fun to take a walk down memory lane and see every Christmas card that Michael and I have ever sent out...

Honeymoon pic from Aruba

2002

Apparently I was Cindy Lou Scrooge in 2003 because I can't find a card...I was climbing up the corporate ladder to success back then though...ha!

Our oldest daughter, Mollie

2004

Olivia's first Christmas

2005

This card was covered in glitter and was one of those that the recipient has some unkind words when they open it and glitter flies across the entire house!

2006

2007

Sweet Ana Blair's first Christmas

2008

2008 (Back of card)

Preschool Christmas Program

2009-12-19T13:07:00.000-08:00

Did I mention we had a busy week at preschool? Thursday was their program, and more lunch! The kids had made little Santa sweatshirts with their hands and one of the teachers had made the girls this hairbow. They were supposed to wear jeans and after I dug Olivia's only pair out that morning, I must confess that I stopped at Kohl's to buy a new pair on the way to pick up lunch--they were about 2 inches too short! The kiddo is not a fan of jeans, but at least these covered her ankles!

Waiting for her turn to go onstage

I know you could never pick her out in the crowd, but she is on the second row, third from the right hand side.

She did so good! Such a big change from last year when she was so shy I didn't even know if she would open her mouth onstage!

Look who made it...pumpkin face! She didn't make it the whole show, but she did go inside to see sister onstage.

Olivia has finally faced her fear of Santa...

She told him she wants a teddy bear??? What??? What happened to the other things you wanted from Santa? I hope Santa is able to make it out in this weather for some last minute toy making!

Preschool Christmas Party

2009-12-18T11:39:00.000-08:00

This week was a very busy preschool week, but a great one! Time that makes me so thankful for the great school Olivia goes to, the great teachers she has/had and the great Mamas in her class. They had Christmas dinner (ham and all the trimmings), and had such a great time.

Olivia with her Christmas tree creation (sugar cone, green icing and candy to decorate)

Reaping the rewards of her yummy Christmas tree

The kids all drew a name and had Secret Santa. It was so cute. And they were SO adorable telling each other Merry Christmas and opening their gifts. Olivia was SO excited because her buddy Molly drew her name and gave her makeup and bath beads!!

Baking Night

2009-12-18T09:16:00.000-08:00

Ana Blair spent the night with my mom the other night so I could go to Olivia's Christmas Party at school. Olivia and I took advantage of the evening and had some fun in the kitchen--fun in the kitchen isn't possible with a 14 month old! We made creme de menthe brownies, baked a cake and made little Christmas mice for her party the next day...we almost lost the mice though. The next morning when we went to get the out of the fridge, we found Jingle Belle Tinsel right there in the fridge about to eat them all up! Oh, and yes...we do match

Charlie Brown ICE!

2009-12-16T19:32:00.000-08:00

Last Friday Olivia and I drove to Nashville to meet up with our friends, Melia and Hudson. It was such a quick trip, but we had tons of fun and even managed to make some memories! Melia and I almost froze our fingers off trying to take some pictures, but it was worth it! I love how close these two are, and how they look forward to seeing each other!

And you might notice there are no pics of either of them on the slide...they both chickened out!!

Please look at my child....SASS, at its finest

Look at sweet little Hudson looking up at Charlie Brown

We had so much fun with you guys, can't wait to see you again soon!

Decking the Halls 2009

2009-12-14T12:50:00.000-08:00

Its no secret that I LOVE to decorate for the holidays! Some may even say that I go overboard (those people are just plain Scrooges!) Although, with this being our first year in this house, I must admit, I feel kind of bare...oh well, I guess I just need to buy twice as much in 2010!

So come on into my living room (and yes, that is Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer playing), and if you look close enough, you might even find Jingle Belle Tinsel our family elf!

Christmas tree during the day

...and at night. Confession: Mollie thought this photo shoot was about her and I didn't have the heart to tell her it wasn't, so you might find a little extra Christmas cheer in the form of a weim in some shots!

My super cute new tree skirt

View from the kitchen

Front door

View from our front door--guess I should have put this one first!

Not a lot going on in the kitchen...this is my "project" for 2010!

Michael's Chicago Bears wreath in the office...next year the lucky boy will have his very own orange and white tinsel tree!

Master bedroom...the Santa Baby room

That is a giant Santa belt across the comforter

The girls' bathroom

Olivia's room...she also gets her own tree next year

Ana Blair's room

Back door wreath...thanks for stopping by!

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

Rockefeller Center

2009-12-09T08:32:00.000-08:00

We were going to go see "the big tree" on Saturday night after Mary Poppins, but after the snowstorm of '09, we put it off until Sunday morning. Olivia loved it...we all did. I love the smell of a real tree, and this was amazing! We had such a great trip, it was so much fun to share it with Olivia. She whined half the way home saying how much she would miss "New Yoik City," but once we switched planes, she was so excited to get home to see her Daddy and Ana Blair!

Mary Poppins on Broadway

2009-12-08T16:34:00.000-08:00

On Saturday afternoon we went to Mary Poppins on Broadway. AMAZING. I can't say enough. My sister, who hates stage shows, couldn't say enough about this one. It really was magical. I thought Olivia was going to explode at the end when Mary Poppins flies out over the audience and she flew directly over her head. We were on the third row and if she had been a tiny bit taller, she could have touched her. Of course, Teresa (40) and Olivia (4) couldn't stop talking about how they saw her underwear...classy.

When we walked out of Mary Poppins, we were faced with one of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen. Huge, giant snowflakes in Times Square. Sad thing is, there wasn't a cab to be had and we were about 15 blocks from our hotel. Sadder thing still is that, did you notice in the other pictures I was bundled up in sweaters? What you couldn't see was the sweat that was dripping off of me. Seriously, 71 degrees when we landed in NYC. So, that morning the most brilliant person ever to be born was going to beat the system and wear a tank and short sleeved cardigan, along with--wait for it--boyfriend jeans rolled up and adorable little ballet flats from Target. Super cute shoes, not really cut out for the elements. I literally poured water out of them when we got to the room...right before they met Mr. Trash Can. I knew it was bad when, about 5 blocks from the hotel, people were saying things about how pitiful I was, instead of the 4 year old popsicle with us! I will spare myself, my mom and my sister the humiliation of posting our "wet" pics, but by looking at Olivia, you get the idea...

Day 2, American Girl and The Rockettes

2009-12-08T07:56:00.000-08:00

As if the sweet child hadn't already gotten enough, we were dumb enough to take her to American Girl Place. Let's just say I may have created a monster. She was like a crazy person in there, but she had so much fun! And I'm thrilled to say that I am now the proud mother of another girl, Kit. (Did I mention Kit has about as many clothes as Olivia and we have to get her dressed every day?)

And that night we headed to Radio City Music Hall to see the Rockettes perform

Olivia and Titi

Getting ready for the show

This is after she had her picture made with a Rockette. She decided she wanted to pose like her and, well, she did just that! The photographer and the Rockette were dying...I think they would have hired her on!

Olivia and Mom after the show

Serendipity

2009-12-07T12:12:00.000-08:00

I guess I am posting this trip in opposite order...anyway, after Central Park we walked over to the Plaza and then went to Serendipity for frozen hot chocolate and one last stop at Dylan's Candy Bar. Serendipity was the most beautiful place ever, I felt like I had walked into a dream! Pink walls, Christmas decorations and lights everywhere, and something heavenly called frozen hot chocolate?? Does it get any better?

New York, Day 1

2009-12-07T12:07:00.000-08:00

New York City, Day 1 began very, very early! My mom and sister had spent the night that night and I crept into their rooms at 4am (careful so not to wake Ana Blair or Daddy would kill me!). We were out the door by 4:45. Olivia decided she would travel in pajamas, and let's be honest...who of us would not make that choice if we could? She insisted on pulling her own suitcase everywhere we went!

Upon arrival in New York City, we couldn't check into our hotel until later that evening, so we stowed our luggage and headed out to Central Park. Olivia quickly found a gingerbread girl she couldn't live without

Then, on to FAO Schwarz...she loved it! The first few minutes we were in there she was getting pretty visibly upset. It took me a few minutes to learn that she thought she was only getting one toy and had no idea how she would decide...

Clearly, she got over that misconception very quickly!

The Nutcracker

2009-12-01T09:24:00.000-08:00

Friday night after Thanksgiving, Olivia and I made our second annual trip to see the Nutcracker performed by the Moscow Ballet, and this year we brought Cookie along with us. It amazes me how a child can sit still through an entire ballet, but she soaks it up. She looked at Cookie halfway through the first act and told her she thinks they dance better than she does!

She was BEYOND excited to wear her Nutcracker dress to see the Nutcracker! And her doll made it out with us that night too.

Olivia and Cookie before the show

We had such a good time, and Olivia asked the next morning when she would get to go back. We were all exhausted though, we didn't get home until 10:30 or so, and for those of you who know my child, know that's about 4 hours past bedtime!

Christmas with Cookie and PopPop

2009-11-30T13:14:00.000-08:00

After the busy Thanksgiving holiday, my spoiled little babies got to usher in the holiday season, complete with presents! From Cookie and PopPop, I might add (they always give great gifts!) Olivia had been eyeballing those presents since they pulled into town on Wednesday, and I think it took ever ounce of self control in her little 36 lb. body not to rip into them until Saturday morning!

Even Ana Blair got into the presents this year. She wasn't much for unwrapping, but she definitely loved seeing what was inside! She loves this little drum

And Ana Blair, just like big sister, LOVES baby dolls (she's "loving" one in this pic, but it kind of blends into her pajamas

What a stinker

Cookie and PopPop

And after all the hustle and bustle of the weekend, we settled in for a long winter's nap--not as long as Ana Blair though, I think she slept for 4 hours this day!

Thanksgiving at Our House

2009-11-28T13:50:00.001-08:00

Michael and I hosted Thanksgiving at our house for the very first time ever this year! And...I may have made a few rookie mistakes...and...I may not have prepared all the dishes (the family generously offered to split the cooking responsibilities up)...but...I think it turned out great! Michael and I prepared our first turkey. I wish I would have taken a picture because it was a beaut! I was super nervous about the turkey and seriously considered a phone call to my local Honey Baked Ham at times, but I'm glad we did it! As usual, I didn't get nearly as many pics as I had hoped I would...Olivia helped me set the table with my pilgrim napkins

My table with chairs pulled from every far corner of the house...luckily, my table is huge--however, I don't have enough matching chairs
Yum...what a spread

There's a little pilgrim behind the pumpkin digging into her turkey a wee bit early!

Is pumpkin face turning into my little turkey face??

Big sister was on the move this day. This was the only time she sat still all day. She orchestrated the whole day to entertain her guests...she told me she "just wanted to make sure our guests were having fun." Her entertainment included a rousing rendition of Miley Cyrus' "Party in the USA," complete with a gymnastics dance routine...(we are talking handstands and cartwheels about 5 inches from my Christmas tree)

After dinner we watched Four Christmases (HI-larious) and played Dirty Santa to welcome in the holiday season...we were exhausted, but had a great day!

Thanksgiving Feast

2009-11-27T10:46:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, Olivia had her Thanksgiving Feast at preschool. The week before as I was carefully choosing which special turkey outfit she would wear, I came across a reminder from her teacher that each child was supposed to wear a black shirt, blue jeans (huh? did jeans exist on the Mayflower) and girls needed to wear a ponytail....my little princess was not thrilled by this news. So not thrilled, in fact, that she insisted that I wear the same ensemble to her school that day...which really wasn't a stretch since I wear jeans and a black shirt 3 or 4 days a week!

The pilgrims marching to meet the Native Americans for their feast

Cute little pilgrim

Somehow the girls scored their own table

Best looking turkey I've ever seen!

Their cute hairbows the teacher had made for each of the girls

Thanksgiving...

2009-11-19T18:01:00.000-08:00

I had so much fun posting my Halloween pics, and I have to tell you that I am positively itching to bust the Christmas decor out (and...surprise, surprise, there is a TON of it!). In fact, I am decorating the inside of my house for Christmas this weekend--with the excpetion of my dining room because we are hosting Thanksgiving at my house this year. This is my table now, but I'll post pics of the table once it is set (why? you ask...because I have Thanksgiving dishes! And this will be my first time to use them!) So for now, I leave you with my humble Thanksgiving decor...

1 Year Portrait Session

2009-11-19T09:32:00.000-08:00

We were a little late getting Ana Blair's one year pics done, but we finally did! If you want to see them:
go to www.memoriesportraits.com
Click on Enter Site
Click on Client Proofing
Password is: Claunch111209 (case sensitive)

I Am Thankful

2009-11-17T07:57:00.000-08:00

Those of you who know me know that my father passed away last weekend. I won't try and sugar coat my relationship with him, but I will say that knowing you don't (or never will) have a daddy when you lay your head down at night is very lonely. My dad had a lot of issues, but he loved my daughters. When I said good-bye to him, I left him with a picture of them because I know how happy he would have been with it.

I didn't have a perfect relationship with my father, but during this loss, I cannot help but be reminded of everything that I DO have. And for that I am thankful...

I am thankful for my life. God has blessed me in countless ways, I have so many beautiful things and a beautiful house to call home. But I have so much more.

I am thankful for my church. I have gone to church my whole life, but never before have I seen a group of people more devoted to serving God and who truly try to encourage every single person to serve God the best way that they can.

I am thankful for my friends. I have been blessed by so many wonderful friends. Friends that have been my friend for as many years as I can remember and friends that I have known for only a few months. Friends that I did not think twice about sending a text to early one Saturday morning to tell them some bad news. Friends that will be my friends forever.

I am thankful for my family. I have been blessed by "in-laws," if you can call them that. I was blessed with a father and "another" mother and a friend. An extended family that raised a man that would make my life worthwhile.

Sisters that go so far beyond the word sister, friend, mother...we are so close we can say anything to each other. We can get mad, and five minutes later laugh. Sisters that love my girls like their own and that I would spend every day with. And a brother-in-law that has looked after me from the time I was a tiny girl...and who looks after my girls with the same love.

I've been blessed by this man. So many people at church conjured up this image when they heard the news of my father. Because even though he is not physically my father, he is in every other sense of the word. He has given me a life that I would not have had otherwise. He showed me what to look for in a husband, someone who truly loves his wife. And someone who would even give up a day of golf to come see my girls!

There are no words for these two women...my aunt Pattie--the line is blurred between aunt, friend and mother. Anyone who has ever met Pattie will never forget her. She is a free spirit. But she loves more than anyone I have ever known. She has loved me and protected me from pain, when I had no idea she even knew what was going on. She has always told me that the only thing she wanted for me was to walk ahead of me and clear my path of stones, and she has done an amazing job. She loves my daughters and would fight to the death if anyone even so much as suggested that they were not behaving (which, if she is with them, chances are they are not!). She LOVES Alvin. Everyone who knows her knows that. Alvin is number one to her on this earth, and together they have shown me a love that I strive so hard to capture. And most importantly, she loves God like no other person I have ever known. She has the most amazing ability to hand her worries over to Him and truly know that He will handle it.

My mom. I love my mom. My sisters and I would do anything in our power to protect her. My mother would lay down her life for one of her children. And from the first moment she laid eyes on Olivia, her love grew to knew heights for her grandchildren. My mother has had a hard life and now it is mine, Kim's and Teresa's responsibility to make it the best life possible for her. She is the strongest person I have ever known.

I am So, So thankful for these girls. I never knew I could love something like this. I don't have to dwell on this because any of you who are mommas reading this, know exactly how I feel about these girls.

They can take a bad day and make it good. They can take a rough night and make it okay. They make life worth living, just by smiling or giggling. I pray every day that their relationship will one day be as strong as mine is with my sisters.

And mostly, I am thankful for this man. This man who has made everything good thing in my life possible. This man that I still get excited when I hear his voice on the phone or hear him walk in the door. This man who would go without something he needed just to make me smile.

This man who shows me every single day that my girls will always have the most wonderful daddy in the world.

For these things, and so, so many more--I am thankful.

Mother/Daughter Dance

2009-11-11T08:34:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Mother/Daughter Dance at Olivia's dance school. She had so much fun, but did tell me I wasn't the best one there (w-w-w-what??). Pretty sure I was! Its been a long time since I danced to anything, except the occasional romp around the house with Olivia...let's just say I broke a sweat! There is definitely a different skill set for the 2/3 year old class and the 4/5s!

This was taken during "freeze dance." All the girls dance freestyle to a Hannah Montana song and freeze when the music stops...I almost fell over laughing so hard watching Olivia try to make sure she was frozen into a pose for when the music stopped!

It was so much fun...not nearly as fun as Father/Daughter Dance will be...stay tuned for pics in January!

The Wicked Witch of West Knoxville

2009-11-03T16:29:00.000-08:00

...and her little cat too!

Little Bo Peep

2009-11-03T08:31:00.000-08:00

Has lost her sheep, and doesn't know where to find her

Leave her alone

She will come home

Wagging her tail behind her!

Monster Mash Lunch

2009-11-02T17:52:00.000-08:00

Scared you??

Olivia's teacher wanted a Monster themed lunch, so me as super room mom (joking) did my best to oblige and thus...the Monster Mash Lunch...seriously, we have some really great and creative moms in Olivia's class this year. We had Mummy hot dogs, monster pizzas, ghost chips, monster mouths (fruit), green mac & cheese and monster punch. Cute, easy ideas for Halloweens to come!

Olivia's table getting ready to feast

Olivia's team getting ready for the scavenger hunt...in front--Sullivan (aka Olivia's boyfriend)...he painted her a picture and from that moment on she has been in LUV

Running past me, she was so excited she found one of "Steve's bones" part of the scavenger hunt

Taking a whack at the pinata...let's just say this delicate flower will never be a power hitter...

Olivia and Molly

Happy with her pinata loot