Forever YOUNG!

Postings...

2009-10-31T13:56:00.009-05:00

O.K. I must confess that I have not posted anything in such a long time for may reasons.

Here are a few of Connor's costume pics. He chose a lion this year and he is SUCH a great one!

Mother's Day Out

2009-09-14T17:22:00.011-05:00

Sooo...our church has started its own Mother's Day Out program. They did like a trial run this summer for just church members and I did a pretty good job of getting Connor there. We did just ease into it going once a week for almost 6 different weeks. It was more for me to get used to it than Connor.

This past week the "real deal" started. Connor goes every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. His teacher is Mrs "Shhherree" (Sherrie) and we already love her! He and his friend Eli are in the same class together. They did a good job posing for a first day picture together, since Connor was to shy to do it by himself. I'm all excited for Connor and this opportunity. We'd always said that he wouldn't start anything until he was 3 but how registration and timing falls just a few months will hopefully benefit him instead of holding out until officially 3. You know as parents you almost always end up changing some of your string-willed mind and plans.

We treated ourselves to breakfast at Starbucks because we both love it and haven't had it in such a long time. I love that my son will share a berry muffin or pumpkin loaf with me!!

Connor's first week was wonderful! He truly loves Mrs. Sherry and she loves him. He is in a small class of 6. They are already learning their curriculum. He loves eating his lunch there,too.

On the mom side of it, I am handling the first week real well because I had sooo many different things to help get done. Literally on Tuesday I was able to run in and out of FIVE stores hunting down specific things for our Church's Mom's group called Common Ground and the preschool nursery. How amazing to be able to "run in and out"!! I haven't done that in sooo long. I know that I will enjoy being able to schedule my shopping and errands now on "Connor's School days".

Although, I must admit the fact that he is growing up soo fast is hard to swallow and hold back all the mixed emotions.

Football Season is HERE!!

2009-09-10T11:38:00.014-05:00

"GO BULLYs!!" is Connor's cheer.

He is ever ready for this new football season. He has and will continue to go to all the home games with us. This year's season opener was FUN! We met Grandmomma and Grandpa there. Daddy sadly had to watch at home on t.v. due to work schedule.

Besides the rain, it was a BLAST!! This is Connor waiting paitiently on the ramp while the rain still fell. GREAT to have a win! I don't think I've ever been at a MSU game where people left because we were winning!!!

Before the game we ate at the yummy

Mug Shots...kids bugers for us all!

Connor knows the new coach is "Dan the Man". He still loves to spot Bully and thinks that he is always waving at him. He still likes the band and fight song. He can hum it all by himself with a "GO STATE" at the end. He truly does watch and pay attention.

There was a heated moment on the big screen that caught Connor's attention where obviously the coach was not happy with a player getting a penalty and he was "letting him have it on the sidelines" Connor asked, "What's wrong , Mommy?" I simply responded with the coach is saying, "Go sit down, not playing anymore". Connor replied, "oh, yeah, he got in trouble"

Connor retold this tiny event of the game many times...especially to daddy. Soo funny where his little mind is now a days!?!?!

Connor does know a whole lot about football thanks to his parent's teachings and a fabulous board book that we read. It came out a few times during the game to be read.

As usual, Connor had his nap in the middle of the game...snuggled up close with his football and stinky, wet, sweaty momma!

Even though there was not alot of time for "playing". Connor did get a little chance to throw the football around with Grandpa and Uncle Robert.

After the game we ate at our favorite Little Doey's. Connor chomped down on shrimp and corn on the cob...he even shared a cookie. He had worked up a BIG appetite after such an exhausting time at the game.

THANKS Grandmomma and Grandpa for such a FUN first football game!!! (It truly was Grandmomma's FIRST football game EVER!! We hope to get her at many more now!)

oh my bath time

2009-09-07T21:14:00.011-05:00

Connor has always looked forward to bath time...really at every age of his life now. I know the days will come when he refuses to bathe and even probably lies about being clean. I just know that water, bath, bubbles, toys are HIS thing!! He can't wait to get in. He would stay in there forever. He never wants to get out. Sometimes I have to count start counting to 3 to get him to even stand up to get out. Pretty fun how something soo improtant can be soo much fun!

Connor has real dolphin swimming goggles from his Grandpa he likes to bathe with.

Connor had his first "mud bath" last week...a really cute bath set by crayola.

Connor even has a bath construction set to make bath time last even longer!

20 years BBC

2009-08-31T16:28:00.009-05:00

This Sunday Bro. Bob and Mrs. Patsy celebrated 20 years in service at Brownsville Baptist Church. I can vividly remember wearing a black gingham sheep sundress and coming to a meet the pastor fellowship 20 years ago. I do remember not being very happy about the actual move. I was starting 7th grade and nervous. As in any journey, there are ups and downs, highs and lows. I am ever grateful to Brownsville Baptist Church for my upbringing, support, memories, growth and beautiful wedding. To think its been 20 years really does make me see that TIME FLIES!!! What a beautiful church, body of Christ, and memories I will always hold dear.I am ever soo proud of the BEST Father and Pastor I will ever know. I am highly biased and prejudice. Even being under several other "great" pastors...MY POPS is TOPS!
I am soo proud of you daddy! All your sermons, ministry, service, leadership, guidance, shepherding, loving, caring, passion and growth.
Great job, mom, being soo supportive and perservering for well over 20 years now.
I love you two soo much and was soo glad we could be there to honor you and your 20 year celebration. Many heavenly jewels await your crown! Keep on keeping on at BBC!

Connor did get to reunite with his friend Kaylee. They enjoyed playing together while everyone else mingled, talked, ate and celebrated. This is his buddy at Big Bob's church...she's the minister of music's daughter.

Me and My CUZ!

2009-08-31T16:17:00.012-05:00

Connor has a CUZIN!

Baby Carson and Connor got to be together for the first time since he was born. We were all together for Brad and Matt's birthday this past weekend.
Connor LOVES Carson and did a GREAT job! He "played" with him, held him, sang to him, read to him, fed him and kissed him ALOT!It was lots of really sweet FUN!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!

2009-08-31T12:54:00.008-05:00

Daddy's birthday was Thursday! We have been having MUCH birthday FUN!We woke him up to Krispie Kream donuts with candles!We gave him a new cd to listen to.We met him for lunch at McAllister's and gave him "happies".We met Mimi, Big Bob, Jake, D and Laura at Swanky's for birthday dinner and presents. We had made chocolate cupcakes with chocolate icing and Mimi brought an Oreo cake-YUMMY!

I gave daddy "golfballs"-which I had been wispering to him all week because its a secret. Luckily we had daddy fooled because he really got an indoor golf ball set and a round of golf at a new course here in Memphis. He got new movies to watch, a new cd to listen to and tailgating stuff for the Bulldogs! We love BRAD and had a great day celebrating him.

Friday night we drove to Jackson to be with family. Brad has twin brother Matt so we always have a fun birthday party all together. We had a movie themed party-The Lion King. It was fun and daddy got lots of great gifts. I always love being with family and playing at Grandmomma and Grandpa's house. This time I got to "play" with baby Carson. I love him!

We had a SUPER time celebrating Daddy and Matt. Fun Fun time!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! We love you!!

ready for rain

2009-08-25T17:14:00.003-05:00

Connor has been wanting a monkey umbrella for over a year now...he mentions it randomly

Grandmomma recently found him a monkey raincoat...without ever knowing we were wanting a monkey umbrella. That led to finding the matching umbrella at our target store. He is the funniest all decked out playing inside with his umbrella! Hopefully in the rainy season we will put this to GREAT use but for now we just play "dress up" inside. Now if we could find matching monkey rainboots!?!?!

Summer Visit to "Jackson Family"

2009-08-19T21:34:00.046-05:00

Connor and I have tried to start taking a week to visit family in the summer time. Last summer we spent 1 week with each side of the family and had a blast...This summer our week in Jackson was a little altered due to my mom's heath. Thank you everyone who prayed and was concerned. Hopefully she is on the road to GREAT recovery.
So our FULL week was not truly a FULL week...but it was jammed packed with FUN!

We have Brad's side of the family living in the Jackson area...I say that because I don't think any of their actual addresses are Jackson. We've got Terry, Raymond, Brandon, etc.

We stayed of course at Grandmomma and Grandpa's house...i call out in the "stix"!

We visited the Natural Science Museum, did some outlet shopping in Vicksburg, shopping of course around Jackson, painting at Harry the Potter, playing with all the fun toys at Grandomma & Grandpa's house, and eating out at some of our favorites!! (my awesome Father-in-Law truly understands my passion and deep love for Dairy Queen and always takes me there! Girl Scout Mint Blizzard--YUM YUM!!) We did get to spend some great quality time with all our relatives...I hope and pray that Connor holds these memories dear to his heart. Going to Grandparent's and family for visits can be such sweet times. I love and cherish all the time we spent there last week. While I won't bore you with all the details-here are the highlights.THANK you precious family!! We love you MUCH!! Never enough time when we come-no matter how long we are there!

This is "GREAT Gran". She and Connor and I ate at a cool ole homecookin place (Trace Grill) where she learned of Connor's love for fried okra.(Of which she then made a batch for him before we went home.)She helped read and put him down for his nap in this pic.

Connor with Pappaw and Memaw. It was actually close to Papaw's bday...so we took him his annual gift of goo-goo bars and a "miskelly" gift card (McAllister's really)

Memaw pulled out really cool cars for Connor to play with this time. He still likes to line everything up like a train.

We met Aunt Vickie and Grandpa one morning at the Natural Science museum where we all had a GREAT time! Lots of cool animals.Connor added a baby turtle to his own personal animal collection from the gift shop.Go if you can...VERY NICE!

Shopping in Vicksburg was way successful for Connor...lots of new clothes and a brand new MONKEY!! Hoping maybe to replace luvie monkey with this "toddler version". Connor is into lemons now a days and Grandmomma let him have hers at McAllisters where we refueled before more shopping!!

We met Grandpa and Aunt Vickie again- this time for painting!! FUN time by all!! Connor took some lessons from the ever talented Vickie who taught him squiggle lines and dots. Hopefully all our pieces will turn out as masterful as we expect!!

Saturday morning before we left Connor had hours of BOY fun in the yard...DIRT PILE and WATER HOSE!!!

O.K. This trip REALLY could've been called "cookie visit"...If you know me well, you know that we don't do much "Sweets" with Connor. But this trip was all about COOKIES!!

Connor needed to go "potty" while at Beagel Bagel...as we walked to the restrooms...he says, "momma, I see a thing that can be GREAT dessert for us". Sure enough he spotted a super cool flower cookie. He was quite nice to share (as always) a petal each to Grandmomma and me.

Grandpa taught Connor how to eat Oreo's:

While Primo's has great food...their desserts are by far the best thing about going there. Connor chose a SUPER HUGE cookie covered in sprinkles that he could not even come close to eating "all gone". We did bring daddy his favorites home as a treat from here.

We even made our own ice cream sandwhich cookies...of which connor called ice cream pigs. LOTS of fun and tasted GREAT! Might have to start making this a tradition!!

FISHY! FISHY!

2009-07-29T13:11:00.023-05:00

Connor is simply a fishy fishy in the water!

Since the weather has been rainy and going to continue rainy...we took advantage of Monday being sunny and nice.

We haven't made it there as much as last year...but enjoy every swimming time at our Ypool.Connor loves his floaties. He loves the pool. He tries to do his own "swimming" which is quite good. He likes to blow bubbles. He likes to play with his toys in the water-especially the football. He likes to go under the big mushroom and through the sprayer. He loves to go touch the big sprayer ball. He likes to JUMP the most. He has not made it down the big slides yet this year but really wants to...he just can't stand in line to wait his turn without giving up and chickening out.Maybe before the summer is over or certainly we can wait until next year!

He is soo fun to watch and play with in the pool. We are grateful for a fun pool soo close by. Oh yeah...and the "ice cones" there are SUPER DUPER GOOD!!!

NINE YEARS AGO TODAY!!

2009-07-22T14:02:00.003-05:00

NINE YEARS AGO TODAY!!!!

I married my best friend and soul mate.

I was the happiest and giddiest girl in the world.

I became a wife!

I was surrounded by my family and friends.

I laughed and cried.

I had a GORGEOUS and PERFECT wedding.

I began a whole new life.

I changed my name from the front of the alphabet to the stinking end.

I was full of hopes and dreams.

I couldn't stop smiling.

I let go of my deep ties with my mother and father.

I clung to my new husband.

I felt safe and secure.

I was excited about my whole new inlaw family.

I was anxious and a little nervous.

I simply knew the peace of having it official...married.

I made a committment FOREVER!

I couldn't have been any more happier.

And now on this day...NINE YEARS LATER...with all that has come my way good and bad, beautiful and ugly, changing and unchanging, growth and failures, happiness and sorrow, riches and poorer times, blessings and hardships, laughter and tears, additions and subtractions, more and less...I still feel and know that all that took place NINE YEARS AGO is the BEST thing ever!!

And as far as being the happiest ever on that day...now today I can surely say I am WAY more

happier, loved, hopeful, blessed, secure, safe and changed.

I LOVE YOU. BRAD...FOREVER!! I adore our life together! THANK YOU!! THANK YOU!!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!

movie with mom

2009-07-17T13:39:00.005-05:00

Our Malco Theaters do a Summer deal on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. I had thought about this for an activity this summer but kinda had forgotten about it until this week. Brad had to go out of town for work and Connor and I don't really ever like being by ourselves. We decided to see what movie might be playing this week and give it a try.

Connor has not been to see many movies in the theaters before, and he was sooo little he did not "watch it" anyway...just a family tradition at Christmas time. He does enjoy to watch things now though and I was pretty sure he would watch the WHOLE movie when I found out that they were showing Madagascar 2. He LOVES this movie and all his "friends"- Melman, Gloria, Alex, Marty, Move It Move It, penguins, etc. He thinks that all our animals here at the zoo are named these names...he LOVES to go see Gloria and Melman and Alex at our zoo.

We paid our $4 total to get in and $2.50 for popcorn, drink and candy...it is by far a SUPER GREAT deal!!!

We got to our seats and Connor yells out..."SOOOO BIG MOVIE"!! He couldn't believe how GIANT the movie was!! It was soo enjoyable. He sat in his own seat some and cuddled up with me some. It was a really fun time to watch him enjoy watching a "BIG MOVIE". He did eat some of the popcorn, all the candy and most of his "spicy water" (Sprite). It was a fun memory to make and now have.

P.S. I don't know how long it goes on this summer or what the exact movie schedule is...but its a GREAT deal that I think all the Malco's offer around here...Tuesday and Wednesday mornings 10:00 a.m.

Aunt, Uncle and Cousin!!!

2009-07-14T13:42:00.005-05:00

We are now very proud first time Aunt Julie, Uncle Brad and Cousin Connor!!!

Brad's brother and wife had their precious son July 9th.

His name is Carson Joseph Young.

We did get to go and meet him.

We love him and the whole new world as aunt, uncle and cousin.

Congratulations Matt and Tasha!!

Proud to Be...

2009-07-06T14:25:00.026-05:00

We are soo proud to be an American family living with such freedoms and blessings. This weekend was all about sharing and celebrating. It began Tuesday night with Connor and I making "star" cookies. I am pleased to announce Connor can do almost every step of cookie making except the oven!! He dumped ingredients, mixed, rolled, patted, and cut which is usually his regular routine. This time I let him try the spatula!!! He loved scooping them up and sliding them off -and I must say he did a mighty fine job. They all still looked like stars!!

Grandparents came in Thursday night...both sets!I don't this this has happened it such a long time!! Brad had church softball games so we all ( Connor, Grandpa, Grandmomma, D and Laura)went to eat Mexican and then back home to "play" a little. Connor bounced from person to person. Fully soo excited and overwhelmed to have soo much attention!

Friday morning we were up and headed to the zoo. Both sets of grandparents have not been to the zoo with Connor in...well...too long. It was a little warm and some of the animals-polar bears- were not out and it did make it a little dissappointing. But Connor has fun at the zoo everytime we go no matter what!

Friday night we grilled out and ate a third of July feast!! There was a kiddie table this time and Connor was taught his first table manners game of "piggies" I do believe Laura struggled in this game...it may have been her first time too.

Connor LOVED the homemade ice cream but mainly the strawberries in it!!!

Saturday is was more family fun...girls shopping, boys playing and grilling, more eating and then the all American game of BASEBALL!! For the past several years we have made it tradition to go to the Redbirds game.It is GREAT fun and the fireworks are fabulous...I recommend it for anyone who needs a place for family fun on the fourth!

Jake and Connor shared an American little debbie cake.

Big Bob shared his chilli chees dog with Connor...only the cheese really.Grandpa shared his peanuts. PEANUTS!!

OUR FATHER!!!

2009-06-25T13:49:00.015-05:00

When we drove in from Little Rock Father's Day, we all took naps immediately. Yes, even I who quite never naps rested my little tired head on my pillow!

When we woke up we had planned to take Daddy to play "golf". Connor has been asking to go play golf with Daddy for a while now. Since the heat is a factor in this outing we adventured out to the Incredible Pizza Company where you can play indoors!It is truly against all that is in my, because it is like a "Chuck E Cheese"-which is passionately not one of my favorite places in the world and we have never taken Connor to such a place before. BUT it is Father's Day and it is extremely hot outside!What were we to do?!?!

It was quite the perfect fun for us...we ate in a room that was showing Thomas the Train on the Big screen and the golf tournament on the little screen on the side...my boys ate in heaven!! By the way Connor ate no "pizzi" but feasted on corn, broccoli and fruit. He tried a cool slushie drink too.

We did play puttputt where our Daddy of the Day had 2 holes in ones out of 9 holes! Watch out Big Phil! Connor pitched a fit when it was time to go play something else. He did quickly take to the other games like bowling, basketball, skeet ball, the bonking the head on the sharks.

We did "make" him ride the go carts-he and Brad rode in the Home Depot car (quite fitting).He did cry most of the time. But of course he liked it when it was all over (and would love to ride again).Being Father's Day I did slow up right at the finish line and let them win the 1st place ribbon!

It was hard to get him to leave. We had to use our tickets to pick out a new "friend", Tyrone, a little blue slinky and an elephant pencil topper!?! I was just glad he didn't pick out a BALL!! We ended our time with ice cream...CHOCOLATE for the boys, of course!
It was a real fun time for all. Brad was a proud dad who got to have a lot of fun with his son-playing!I am soo thankful and blessed to have a wonderful husband who is the best daddy! It is truly wonderful to see him grow into such an amazing father to Connor. Connor calls him his "best buddie". They continue to grow closer each day. Connor LOVES his daddy. I love how Brad protects, teaches, guides,disciplines,wrestles, plays, reads and is such a great example for his son. Connor is a "little Brad" and I am soo proud that one day he will grow into a "Big Brad".It is already soo neat to see all the things they have in common and share as just "father and son".
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY B-RAD! You're the BEST!!

Father's Day weekend in Little Rock

2009-06-22T11:32:00.014-05:00

We travelled to Little Rock Friday afternoon. Tasha is VERY close to having our first cousin...and she is not travelling now. We got to their new house and met up with them and Grandmomma and Grandpa. We went downtown Little Rock to eat at a Pizza Place and then to a baseball game.

We all enjoyed the game inspite of the heat.

Connor got a real special treat when he and Brad got to run the bases after the game-on the "real field, momma" "you see me run?" It was quite cute!

We all enjoyed hanging out at Matt and Tasha's house. Saturday evening we drove over to Hot Springs to eat at the famous "Cajun Boiler". We all stuffed our tummies full of shrimp and crawfish!

We returned home where the boys finally beat the girls in our notorious game of "Jocker"

We got up Sunday morning and ate brunch at a cute yummy cafe..."Mimi's Cafe" Then all headed home.

Children's Museum

2009-06-22T10:59:00.020-05:00

We came home from our Brownsville visit Tuesday evening...then Wednesday our other "Grandparents" came in for a visit at our house! Connor has been begging to go to the zoo. And while it is one of our favorite places and our grandparents have never been...the temperatures are just not cooperating for a visit to the zoo. So, we made out way to the Children's Museum together for lots of FUN together!The two grocery shoppers had a blast doing what they do best...SHOP! But it did end up quite eventful when a little boy wanted to take over connor's buggie before he had checked out?!?! It got very interesting and my "watching- hand off" mommy became defensive mommy to the rescue! The other mother's approach was quite interesting to say the least!??!

Connor's favorite spot this time seemed to be the RIVER...we spent a lot of time fishing!??!

Mimi's and Big Bob's

2009-06-22T10:36:00.010-05:00

Connor and I visited Brownsville for several days...We had such a nice visit. It's been a while since we've been able to go and play with them. The whole family was there for the weekend.It was soo fun to have EVERYBODY together. We all had a fun-filled family time. My Dad's church was hosting a concert by Wes Hampton on Saturday night. Wes sings in the Gaither Vocal Band. He is one year younger than I and we grew up together. It was soo AWESOME to hear him and spend some time with him. He is AMAZING!

We made 2 trips to our favorite place in Brownsville...DAIRY QUEEN!!

Connor made buddies with a new friend...Callie. She is the music ministers daughter. They certainly enjoyed their dipped cones-all by themselves with NO help!

We also visited the Brownsville "Donald's"... of which Connor loved the playground and got quite adventourous on his own. He tends to be like his cautious father. But he was climbing and sliding higher than usual!!

While at Mimi and Big Bob's house several storms and bad weather came through. One night we were without electricity for several hours. I really don't think Connor knew the difference but certainly enjoyed it. He learned all about flashlights. We played outside in the puddles and rain since it was actually cooler outside than inside. He loved jumping and kicking and catching rain in his mouth. Then to clean up we had to take a quick bath in the sink where we could see...he thought that was funny!! We then told stories and read books by flashlight until he drifted off to sleep...luckily the electricity came back on around 9:30 pm. We definitely "made some memories"

Sprinkler Park

2009-06-22T10:27:00.001-05:00

We had a church playdate at the Collierville Sprinkler Park- which is such a FABULOUS place if you've never been!! Connor loves it and it was our first visit this summer...we must get back out there!! Connor LOVES the water...I just wasn't too good at snapping pics of him this time-I was busy playing, too!

Connor enjoyed playing with his friend Brac...they were quite the badmitting buddies and even enjoyed a rare treat of a succer...I just hate suckers, but when you're already hot, wet, and sticky-why not!?!?

Mom's Day Out!!!

2009-06-09T15:24:00.009-05:00

Today was a BIG day...I had my first "weinnie mom" moment.

We are very grateful to be apart of a wonderful Southern Baptist Church...it is almost 3 years old. So things are hopping and growing. Today started our church's Mom's Day Out Program.

They had been "getting ready" since March by doing a one day, once a month 9-12a.m, for just church members. It was basically Connor and his best buds Eli, Wesley and Brac in a room together. Today started the "real thing" though. I had really had mixed emotions...it is offered every Tuesday and Thursday from 9-1. We registered and signed Connor up for just Tuesdays. We prayed about it and made sure it was the right timing and best thing for him. (and me)Today came and we headed off. Brad followed us there. We took pics, videoed and made it a special event...although to Connor he was just excited to go to church. He calls it his "class". As I left him I did do a little tearing( not full fledged crying)...can my baby really be 2 and starting a "program". I did enjoy the 4 hours of grocery shopping alone, picking up the house in silence, and running a few errands. I did feel like the moms who I used to see every year dropping their kids off at school and booo hooing. Thank goodness I didn't go that far and we have a few more years before "school" comes. Connor had an AWESOME day! I know he is where he is suppose to be. I sucked it up like a big momma should do and know I will enjoy and am blessed to have this time to "get some things done" without a 2year olds help!

VBS!

2009-06-09T15:14:00.005-05:00

Vacation Bible School was last week here at our church, DeSoto Hills Baptist Church.

I had mentioned how I was over the preschool...which meant all Kindergarten. We had a BLAST!! The theme was Rome with Paul and the underground church. This was a little difficult for preschoolers. We had to really dig deep for our stories and crafts. We just focused on stories of paul and church.Oh the stories I heard about jail and being thron into prison!! We made all kinds of cool Roman things...like an abacus, wooden top toys, money bag, bulla necklace,etc. My favorite was Wednesday...dress up day! Connor made his laurell wreath at home as my example and then wrapped up in a toga!! SUPER CUTE!! All the kids did this at church and made such great keepsake pictures in cool frames. (THANK YOU AMBER and RODNEY!!) Connor went to VBS Mon-Wed. Then Thursday Mrs. Elise (mother in law "MIL") came to visit and he stayed home with her the rest of the week. I survived and had a WONDERFUL week. We had lots of children, lots of fun and lots of good seeds were planted in the young hearts of about 43 kindergarteners!!THANKS to all my friends for helping teach this week. I will hopefully catch up on my energy level and sleep this week!I'm thinking that in heaven there are special rewards for all Vacation Bible School Workers!

2009-06-08T15:23:00.018-05:00

BEACH BUMS!!
2 weeks ago we had our family trip to Destin. It was ABSOLUTELY wonderful!!
We LOVE the beach and I was soo glad that Brad took off from work this year to go try and "rest/relax" with us. (He didn't get to go last year)
Connor of course absolutley is taking after his momma in becoming a great beach bum!!
This year being 2 he still LOVED the sand is pretty content to play in it as long as you would let him. He did still run in and out of the waves...still not wanting to be out in the water much. He absolutley loves the pool and I do think he might be part fish still. He did a FANTASTIC job of playing with his toys in the sand by himself...we all rotated playing and resting. Although he could have been happy playing independently also.
We had beautiful weather...no rain...the beach was soo fun,water good, temperatures-PERFECT, the pool same as always (the place to go right after the beach for about 20 minutes), the shopping great, the food yummy (it's always my goal to eat as much shrimp as possible), the putt putt- a new course this year, the rest and play times unforgettable and the family time MUCH NEEDED!!
Why is it soo exciting to go and way soo sad to leave?Time truly flies when having fun- and boy did we!
I could show a million photos and some video...but I'll only post several. For those of you who have been already or are going to the beach know how its goes and those who don't like it or will not be going this summer I'm not trying to make you jealous or sad...it was SUPER DUPER for us though.

quite a while...

2009-05-19T15:29:00.008-05:00

It has been quite a while since I posted what's going on in the Young family. We surprisingly have just been HOME...enjoying home! It is the time to be out in the yard. We were blessed with tons of rain for many days in a row. Then the past weekend and this week have been BEAUTIFUL!! Soo...we have all been out in the yard. Brad has worked VERY hard-cutting, spraying and getting our grass looking good. He has worked mulching, building and filling up the flower beds. He did a fabulous job creating 2 new flower beds in the back yard and finishing up one already existing. Connor and I have just helped him along the way the best we could. Connor is more into digging and playing ball than actually working...yard work for 2 year olds is kinda challenging.He does LOVE being outside like his parents. We are fortunate to have a GREAT deck and backyard to "live in". We also made a huge purchase and milestone for Connor...a playset!! It has been on our minds for several months...Brad did all the research and shopped around for the best one. It has been bought and sits in our garage...4 big boxes!!! Brad hopes to get it built before it gets too hot. Sitting in our garage, Connor sees it daily and sweetly says "Daddy build my playground next day" I'll keep you updated on the playset progress!

Connor is enjoying his very own chair now. He had pretty much taken over Brad's leather chair...so we got him his very own! He loves it! He sits in it, plays in it, reads in it and loves to get a blanket and watch "some Bob or Nochio or McQueen" (Veggie Tales, Pinnochio or Cars)

This past Saturday night, we started off our Redbirds season. Our Sunday School friends all made a trip to the ballpark. We all sat out in the bluff and watched the game and fireworks! Connor took his glove and ball and played like a real baseball player. He LOVES his baseball!!

I am frantically working on VBS...I'm in charge of the Preschool. It's a very fun theme..."Rome" It's just that there is not much material for the preschoolers...so I am back in full time teacher mode!! I need a lot of prayers and help for that week. It's such a fun and important ministry. It is the first week of June. If you're already helping me- THANK YOU! ...if you have ideas or can come help...COME ON!!I can't wait!

We are getting ready for a big weekend and trip to the BEACH!!

We will go to Jackson, MS for Grandpa's bday and then a baby shower for Tasha. Then its the lovely drive to Destin. We are all excited about the beach and a family vacation. We all NEED it!

I promise to update and do better about posting once I'm dragged back from the beach...

2009-05-03T21:12:00.011-05:00

This Saturday we attended D&D's Annual Crawfish Boil. That would be our Uncle D's crawfish boil he does with his buddie Drew. It was at D and Jake's apartment building in Harbor Town. It was a rainy day but we still had lots of fun.

I loved the crawfish even though I never actually would hold one. I did pet them alot. I loved splashing around in the water puddles too. I followed around all my favorites- D, Jake and Freeman...but especially Laura! I love her!

Big Bob and Mimi were there too. Mimi tried to eat the crawfish...!?!? I did not. I ate pb&j with cheetos and vanilla wafers.

I love my two uncles D and Jake. Thanks for inviting me!

Daddy flies away

2009-05-03T15:46:00.002-05:00

We went to the airport Thursday to watch Daddy "fly off". Brad is travelling to Chicago. It has been a while since Connor has been to the airport to see daddy "fly away". This time he understood and questioned soo much more. As we drove down Airways Rd. He spotted a crane "like Cranky". That's all he kept shouting..."like Cranky!!like Cranky!" Sure enough at the airport there was a big crane working on something "like Cranky" (Cranky is the crane in Thomas the Train)

Living where airplanes fly over ever 5 minutes, we have always watched planes. This time the airport visit was much more than watching planes. Connor can ride on the escalator!! He wanted to know "where all these people go?" He really wanted to actually help Daddy check in by pushing the screen. Luckily we had a sweet lady helping us who invited him to assist. Connor also really wanted to go with Daddy this time and ride the airplane. He knows that the pilot drives the plane for the people to ride. As we watched planes take off and land...he would notice the difference in sizes as they go closer and farther away. The airport took on new meaning this trip.

It's always hard to leave daddy. We had lots of hugs and kisses and "group hugs" and "group kisses". This time was the first time Connor really wanted to go. I kinda regret not going on this trip...but mayber next time.As we left the airport and found our car in the parking garage with the "cool lights", Connor announced to me that "daddy flies away!". If you ask him where daddy flew to he responds with a hearty "chiCAgo" as if he was born and raised there!?!!? We can't wait for him to come back home!

oh the potty days...

2009-05-03T15:31:00.007-05:00

Connor has taken his first real interests in "potty time" the past few weeks. He is not really "ready" but we are just going with it. Daddy was helping him some this past week.

What different approaches you can have...

mommy: get in ,get it done- clean up!!

daddy: get in, enjoy it, hang out, read a book, clean it mostly

BIG BOB and MIMI

2009-04-27T21:06:00.013-05:00

Connor and I travelled to Brownsville Friday to spend the night with BIG BOB and MIMI!Brad had work and a golf tournament so he did not get to go with us. We drove into "Browntown" sporting and new haircut. We made our first stop at Mimi's work. Connor loves to ask Mimi for the blue bouncy ball that she keeps at work for him to play with. He always laughs and giggles lots with it. Well....the ball was not there! So instead Connor worked the type writer and adding machine. When time we headed home for lunch and nap. Connor LOVES playing with all the balls that Mimi has at her house. He loves the red wagon full of toys. Big Bob fixed us a delicious salmon dinner that even Connor ate up! He's such a GREAT chef! We slept good and got up ready for Big Bob's pancakes. I'm not sure why but Connor always talks and thinks of Big Bob cooking pancakes. This Saturday morning though it was no ordinary pancake...with Mimi's help, Connor had Mickey Mouse pancake!!

We made a trip out to the John Deere store with lots of fun to be had but no tshirt in Connor's size!??!I think I will just have to order one. We then headed to the really nice walking track to feed the ducks and fish. Now it was time to shop at an Estate Sale. Ms. Melissa MacKensie was my beloved piano teacher. She is in heaven making beautiful music and keeping everyone straight now but her house and "things" were all for sale. It was quite sad. I did hold it together really well until I walked into the music room where I had spent soo many times with her. Then I did have to cry just a little. We did get to buy some beautiful and special keepsakes.
Connor had a "two year old" spell. One of his worst ever so far. He did not want to take his nap and could not get settled down in his bed. Finally after several spankings and fits and screaming spells and hugs and just the right timing-he gave up the fight and obeyed!! MAN!! The selfish nature finding its way...scary but such natural thing. He does do a good job of apologizing and hugging and saying "I obey Mommy/Daddy".

After nap we were up and playing...baseball...golf...outside...FUN TIME!! We ate another yummy Big Bob dinner and headed back home. Daddy was waiting on us.

Riding home Connor talked of how he loves Big Bob and Mimi and their house and their dog and pancakes and ducks and toys and books and ...it was if he was retelling his time to me as if I hadn't been there. His memory and tender sweet spirit always amazes me. I will note though that when he did not mention his "nap fit" I reminded him. He just said, "i cry" and " i get trouble".Ther is no place like home and every trip to Big Bob and Mimi's is much fun!

Jonah...I MUST OBEY!!

2009-04-23T22:05:00.006-05:00

I have the joy of teaching preschool choir on Wednesday nights at church. I love my precious choir and how they LOVE to sing to God.We have been focusing on Bible characters and songs that go along. This week we learned about Jonah. I had "leftovers" and used it with Connor and Eli.They absolutely LOVED it!! We had the best time!

We read the story out of Connor's Bible, acted it out,(several times) colored and glued a whale, learned to sing the song "Who Did Swallow Jonah", spit that Jonah out of a party blower, played outside with boats, whales and water, ate goldfish as a snack of course. The main lesson from Jonah is I MUST OBEY!! That is huge for Connor and Eli at this stage. They were definitely little sponges today soaking it all up and "spitting" it back out!!

SUPER BULLDOGS!

2009-04-21T14:10:00.004-05:00

This past weekend was SUPER BULLDOG weekend in Starkville, MS.It has been a while since we have been apart of this weekend. It was Connor's first.

We drove down Friday night. We went to my brother, Robert, and his wife, Lane's house.Connor immediately rememebered their little dog Gus and had a ball. We waited for Mimi and Big Bob to drive in for dinner time. Robert received a phone call that their call had broken down right down the road. So we all went to the rescue. Connor was quite confused as we sat in the car not able to get out. I told him that their car was broken. As they unloaded their luggage, Connor said, "Big Bob not talk to me." " Big Bob not happy." "Mimi's car broken." Sweet boy understood the situation quite well. Once Mimi got in the car with us, Connor's concern was then gone. We headed off to Oby's to eat dinner together. (We did get their car towed and fixed.) We spent the night with our dear friends, Nathan (Nate T) and Ashley Taylor. They are our football season ticket buddies. We had not ever had the chance to stay with them so it was fun talking, laughing and just hanging out.

We got up Saturday morning and hit the road straight to Shipley's Donuts. This is Brad's favorite. Connor thoroughly enjoyed eating the top of his chocolate donut!! Then the boys dropped me off to go shop at the Cotton District Festival while they did "boy stuff"...to the bakery for first ever "bone cookie", walking around campus "soaking it all up" and a little bit of shopping at the campus bookmart. Brad had to call me and brag on his boy...Connor told him that "the bullies play the cats at baseball". We had talked about going to the baseball game Friday morning and that it was against the cats...GO BIG BLUE! So he remembered and told his daddy-which blew Brad's mind. I'm sure he was a foot taller walking around in pride of his smart son.For lunch Robert grilled out for us and there were amazing chocolate dipped strawberries. Mimi had bought Connor a duck on a stick that he immediately loved playing with.

The 3 of us then took off to the baseball game-Connor's first STATE baseball game.He had a GREAT time and almost made it through the whole game...that went into extra innings. He had to get his rest in before the football game. So he did miss the winning home run?!?! Atleast they won the game and we can say his first game was a win!

Now it was on to the Spring football game. Everybody was all hyped up about new coach, new uniforms, new offense, new...it was fun! Because Connor has been to many a football games he was right at home and enjoyed it fully.I was quite happy to see them bring back the dog pound rock. Brad was pretty impressed with the new offense...let's see, not running it up the middle every play may actully help us score this year!! Connor saw and talked about all hs favorites...BULLY, the band, the "coach"-which we will have to start working on the new "Dan the Man", the BIG flag, helmets, football, fight song, cowbells, etc....he truly is a little BULLY!

It ended up being a fun filled SUPER BULLDOG WEEKEND for us...GO BULLY!

Easter Weekend!

2009-04-15T13:36:00.041-05:00

What a FUNfilled Easter weekend! Each holiday is exciting to experience together as a family. And in our hard decision making struggle about where and what to be and do...we did decide to keep FAMILY FIRST!! We are blessed to live close to both our families where we can easily drive to them.

Friday began with just the 3 of us!! We headed out to Cedar Hills Farm! Even though it was a little chilly and very windy, we had a GREAT time! We took our picture first with a LIVE bunny!! Connor could not wait to hold that white bunny. Surprisingly he did GREAT!!

We then visited all the animals. Connor then made his trip to see the Easter Bunny. Luckily, we had him to ourselves for a little while because it took Connor a little while to finally get close to him. He talked up a storm to him..."you are white...you have ears...you hop...come my house..."

Next Connor and Daddy rode the train! YEAH!

We then rode the "John Deere tractor" out to hunt eggs. Connor had it all to himself for a little bit and just took off in the field of a million eggs in hunt for the 12 he wanted to pick up!! He didn't discover until the end that there actually was something in the eggs...so he and daddy shared a tootsie roll!!

Saturday, my parents "Mimi and Big Bob" were here with us. We went to the church egg hunt all together. Our best buddies were there and buy was it FUN! Connor found lots of eggs with Big Bob's help!!Then it was PLAY time on the playground with my friends. I think Mimi and Big Bob had a blast watching him interact with his friends. We ate a hotdog lunch picnic style. Then emptied out all the eggs on the way home looking for CANDY!! Connor seems to like the smarties the best.

Mimi and Big Bob stayed to play a little while before they had to go home. It was long awaited time with them...reading books, playing cars and hunting more eggs!

We then drove Saturday night to Jackson to be with Brad's family. Connor had his first egg dieing party there. We were not quite sure how that would go...but he loved it! He was pretty patient. I think only one egg was broken! He did a fantastic job and you could tell he was proud!

There is nothing better than Easter Sunday morning!! We woke up and got ready. We found that there was ...STUFF...in our easter baskets!! How nice!! Grandmomma and Grandpa went with us to First Baptist Jackson...our old church. It is always nice to be back there. Connor kept saying "Jackson"...we think that he thinks the big church is called Jackson!?!?! The service was AMAZING-MUSIC there is like no other...heavenly!!

We then headed back home for lunch with all the family!

We also hunted eggs...really pretty eggs that Jet had brought. JJ and Jet hid the eggs and then Connor found them all...except the last one- he had everybody looking for!!?!? When it was finally found...Olivia/"Viva" also found a real frog!

What a WONDERFUL weekend to celebrate JESUS!! What WONDERFUL families we have!!

A NEW HOME!!!

2009-04-06T15:38:00.007-05:00

Saturday we travelled to Maumelle, Arkansas! Our Uncle Matt and Aunt Tasha have moved to a new home!! They had been living in Little Rock looking for a home. They found one about a month ago and are now moving in and making it theirs.It is a FABULOUS WONDERFUL BIG ROOMIE house! They have been working on some changes to it the past weeks and have had family up working hard with them. We were soo impressed with all their hard work. It looks soo good!

Connor took the drive there pretty well, playing, singing, reading, talking...we never had to break out his ipod to watch a "movie"!! When we got to the house, the moving truck had just come with furniture. Connor was thrilled to see Grandmomma and Grandpa. He helped unloading things like-pillows! We love Matt and Tasha's new yard...it huge and fun!! Connor was impressed with all the big rocks!! It was GORGEOUS weather! and Connor spent a lot of time outside playing! We tried helping around the house as mothers and grandmothers painted...Connor and I put on wall plates and unpacked some kitchen boxes.Brad and the boys worked on light fixtures and ceiling fans. Connor got to get a plumbing lesson-fun time- with Grandpa.I'm not soo sure they were successful with that project?!!? Connor also helped Grandmomma with loads of laundry.We had a nice lunch and dinner out on their deck. Connor even took the first nap-in the new pack n play- for their baby!!! It was a great time. I know we didn't do a whole lot of work but we tried. We are VERY PROUD EXCITED and HAPPY for Matt and Tasha and their new home on Coral Cove. We wish them all the best in getting it just like they want it and ready for our new family member coming soon!!

On the drive back home Brad took me by the Laundry Mat that we co-own in West Memphis. I was not quite prepared for what I saw!!??! Keep up the hard work Knuckleheads- is all I can say!?!?

Libarie...story time

2009-04-06T15:04:00.009-05:00

We enjoy going to story time at our local Olive Branch Library. Connor LOVES books! He loves listening, sitting on the colored squares , playing and picking new books!! We have been trying to go consistently lately.

Thursday, we had almost a private session of story time at the "libarie". As we got there I was a little worried that it had been cancelled, but our teacher told us that it was just a super slow morning. Connor and Eli and one other little girl enjoyed a full story time together. IT was pretty neat to see the teacher work soo one-on-one with them. They loved that she let them move to different colored squares. The song this week was the monkeys and the alligator and Connor was in heaven! He "SNAPPED" those monkeys right out of the tree. Eli and Connor did a FABULOUS job of listening and interacting. I was sooo proud of them. Connor also was very insistent today that in the library you are "QUIET"!! And he for the most part is a very quiet boy in the library. He did pick out a few new books to bring home...his favorite right now is veggie tales and winnie the pooh. I being the seasonal teacher/mommie wanted him desperately to pick some Easter books...he was not interested one bit. I slipped one "Bunny my Honey" book in and now it is his favorite to read at home!!! Hopefully next week our "libarie" friends and group will be back to normal attendace. It was a nice change though!!

2009-03-31T14:45:00.006-05:00

We were soo excited to be home for this past weekend. We do seem to be the travelling VanYoung family!!ha!

Friday night has been a night in waiting...THE GVB was coming to DeSoto Civic Center. Our church had gotten tickets and I had reserved 3. My mom and dad came. Connor went to our church's "Date Night", that hopeyfully one month soon Brad and I will actually get to go on a "date". Brad had a few hours to himself.

Knowing how long I've listended and followed Bill Gaither and his bands was quite an eye opener for me. What a ministry of talent! for many generations...yes mostly the elderly enjoy and attend the concerts.What was more exciting for me was getting to see Wes. I grew up with Wes Hampton and his family. They are dearly precious to me. To be able to see him in concert made me soo proud and happy for him and what God is doing with him and his AMAZING talent. I truly feel like the GVB is on a great new track with Michael English and of course, Mark Lowry back in action. We did clap, sing, and laugh well into midnight...Sweet HOMECOMING!

Saturday was a day at home for Connor and I. Brad was off working at the laundry mat. We did get out and run a few errands. For dinner we headed to our favorite cheese fry place...Outback! It was quite funny to look up and see Brad and Connor doing their best to eat their broccolli.

Sunday is always the day we look forward to. We just love our church. Connor wore a strikingly hansome new spring big boy outift. He looks and acts more and more "grown up" each day.

We had mexican potluck lunch with our Sunday School class after church. The Simmons are fabulous teachers and friends. It was such yummy eating and fun fellowship as always. I keep hoping one day a little girl will come around...there are just soo many boys amongst us all!!How blessed we are to have friends!

Brad and I teach Sunday night children's church called "Upside". It is WAY COOL FUN! We have a youth praise band that leads our music worship time. I teach the lessons and Brad oversees the games. We use the Team Kid curriculum. Tonight was a packed out house!! Lots of kids, our band sounded incredilbe, all the kids had fun. It is truly a blessing to see God at work in children's lives. They are such sponges--soaking it all up and spitting it back out!!

We look forward to a fun and busy week.

For the first time ever...because we've finally lived in one place long enough...I have been summonsed for jury duty. I will just keep calling in each night to see what awaits me. My prayer is that God will "pass this cup from me". Not that I don't think it would be cool or that I don't want to serve, but that just does not fesibly fit into my daily life schedule. We will see!??!

Creative Boys! Tuesday, March 24th

2009-03-25T15:26:00.013-05:00

Today Eli was with us and we were very creative!

Painting on the easel was a serious thing. They loved every minute of it but were very quiet and focused...quite unusual. But another beautiful masterpiece was made. "God makes pretty solors"!Connor said.

I have confirmed that Connor has inherited his mother's allergies. I always struggle with them and now my poor boy does. He is now taking Children's Zyrtex and we will see how that helps him.We had not been outside very long before both our noses started "runnin"!!! We did have some great swinging time and picking up sticks is an endless fun game.

We did try out the sidewalk chalk for the first time. I knew that rain was coming later so it was a good opportunity to see how Connor likes it...as always-he loved it. He and Eli "solored" really well. I drew several things for them and then we played my own version of Simon Says...except I'd like to call it "obey mommy...the first time!!" They would jump on the circle. Stand in the rectangle. Color the triangle. Stomp on the sun...etc. It was a great time! They both were very proud and when Dad made it home. Connor had to go show his chalk art off.

Brad was back at the Laundry Mat tonight. So, Connor and I hit the gym for and hour and then home for dinner...He finally ate "radibodi" (raviolli) for the first time (we've tried it many a times) and BOY did he gooble it up! Who knows next time?!?!?He was soo proud he wanted to call Mimi to tell her! and their phone conversation actually lasted a few minutes...both understanding each other!!

In his prayers tonite Connor said thank you for "rain" without any prompting or memory of it. I thought about how wonderful rain really is-especially for all this pollen bothering us!??!

Zoo Day! Wed. March 25th

2009-03-25T15:12:00.010-05:00

We spent the morning/afternoon at the ZOO!! It has been a while since we've been. We met our friends Amanda, Wesley, "baby Davis", Elizabeth and Seth. It was a BEAUTIFUL day out. The boys all enjoyed the animals, being outside, and each other. Connor still has his favorites...giraffe "like Melman", elephants, zebra-which were not out today, and polar bears. I chose to take the wagon as usual and Connor had himself a little accident at the elephants...somehow he fell backwards on to the concrete! His precious head hit! It did hurt and scare him-and ME! But luckily a knot started coming outward and his eyes seemed to be fine. After he was consoled soo sweetly by Wesley and he calmed down he was ready to go find the hippo "like Gloria"!?!? I did contiune to seriously watch him- all these boo-boos boys get daily-Big and little ones. Thank you ,God, for protection and healing! We certainly enjoy having a zoo membership and gettting to go often for such FUN-especially with friends and family along!

March 17, 2009

2009-03-17T14:36:00.007-05:00

O.K.
I have finally taken time to sit down and do this!
I know you have been patiently awaiting when I would finally quit talking about doing this and actually doing it...the day has arrived!!
I want to let it be known that I will use this as a way to show what FUN we're having on a daily, weekly, monthly, seasonal basis.
Today just happens to be a holiday!

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY! or as Connor and Eli are calling it green clover day!
Although I did not "plan" for anything, we have had a fun time with the day.
Connor was up late last nite (9:00) so he slept in until about 9:00! Eli had been patiently waiting for him and just hangin with "Juji".
We ate a quick bfast of bananas and raisin toast and got busy playing...trucks, cars, trains, baseball, in the tent and then OUTSIDE! It was still a little damp but absolutley gorgeous sunshine! The boys pulled out all the toys and played. Mostly playing with sticks and leaves rather than toys.
We came in for some GREEN craft time. We painted. "yellow and blue makes...GREEN!" We used yellow and blue markers on coffee filters then sprayed them with water to make GREEN!
We surprisingly didn't get very messy. These little artistic boys did GREAT and had FUN!
For lunch I tried making shamrock cheese toast. The boys loved it. We also had green pudding that luckily I like bc they did not!!
Picking up cleaning up potty time and nap time came quickly.
WOW! How the few hours pass during nap time. I did finish all my laundry and get to check my email. But no sewing today!?!

Snack today was sharing one RAINBOW cupcake!!How lucky I was to have that left over?!!?