Keeping up with the Kirklands

Sweet Memories

2011-11-29T13:20:00.002-06:00

Today I had a pregnancy craving for Hot Tamales. I have been sitting here at my desk snacking on them and couldn't figure out why I was having such strong memories of Grandma and Grandpa Petty. Then it hit me. Before Grandpa passed away they had this glass candy dish that Grandma would keep sugar free chewy candies in...who knows how old they were;) Grandpa and I both favored the little red cinnamon ones. The one specific memory I have is Grandpa and I sitting in the living room and I was picking the red ones out for us while we watched a John Wayne movie. I remember thinking the movie was boring ( for a child it was) but I couldn't think of anything else I'd rather be doing. I wonder what snack I will crave next and where it will take me.

Grandma

2011-10-11T16:09:00.002-05:00

Today has been one of those quiet rainy days where my mind starts to wander. I have been thinking a lot about Grandma Petty today. I think it's a mixture of my hormones being a little crazy right now, the anticipation of finding out if I am having a baby boy or girl and the smell of apple pie I got a whiff of this morning. I felt this urge to sit and talk with her like we used to on the weekends. I wanted to talk to her about baby names, how the dog was doing, Austin's funny new inside joke with me, stories from her childhood...anything. I want to see that smile and wink she always gave and hear that beautiful laugh she had. Grandma was one of those ladies that everyone just fell in love with. I bet every person she knew misses her so much. I know she wouldn't want us to feel sad and miss her all of the time, but knowing her she wouldn't mind it every once in awhile. So here's to you Grandma. I love you and miss you dearly. Wink;)

It has been a LONG time...

2011-09-13T15:56:00.002-05:00

I haven't posted on here in a long time, and I have a feeling with the second baby on the way it will just get worse. I have been keeping everyone up to date on Facebook and just can't find the time to update this as well. To catch everyone up, I am due to have our second baby in March 2012 and Austin is less than thrilled so far. He says he is getting a baby sister (we won't know until Oct. 19th) but he wants a baby "brudder". He also says he is not sharing is Momma, Daddy, Nana or toys with the baby...he will learn. We have been talking to him a lot about being a big brother. He has been the baby for 3 years and isn't going to give that up without a fight it looks like. I am sure he will be upset at first but will get over it like I did. My sister and I ended up being best friends! Anyway, sorry it has been awhile. Keep up with us on Facebook though. I update that more often:)

Happy Anniversary!

2011-06-15T15:38:00.002-05:00

Today is our 4 year wedding anniversary. We have actually been together for almost 10 years but only legally bound for 4. This guy and I have been through a lot in the time we've known each other. Building a house, selling a house, refurbishing a house, the tragic loss of a best friend, the sad good bye to grand parents, watching our son struggle to breath in the NICU, watching our son laugh and smile everyday...the list goes on. He is truly my best friend. The one person that probably knows WAY too much about me and loves me anyway. So Happy Anniversary Beave!

Austin's Easter pictures

2011-04-25T13:23:00.002-05:00

Austin actually sat still for a professional photographer! Theses surprisingly turned out well...

We survived the storm!

2011-04-15T19:11:00.003-05:00

We just had some tornado's pass through! Luckily no damage at our house. It got pretty scary for a minute, but now the storm has moved on to Talladega. Th race is this weekend so the news was concerned for all of the drunk rednecks camping out down there;) I hope Ricky Bobby is okay!

It's been awhile...

2011-03-30T07:51:00.003-05:00

I know I have gotten REALLY bad about posting on the blog, but I just can't seem to slow down enough. I feel horrible because I know most of you only get to see us once or twice a year and this is the only way you can keep up with the Kirkland's. Well, just to give you an update Austin will see the ENT Friday morning to be evaluated for surgery in his ears. He will most likely have tubes and possibly have his anodes grinded down. I know it is a very basic procedure but it is still very nerve racking. He has literally had back to back ear infections the entire second year of his life. We are read for him to start feeling better. Still it is amazing how well he speaks for a kid with such ear problems. Just imagine what he could say if he could hear?! I am sure when we go to Kansas in June he will have plenty to say...and HOPEFULLY be using the "big boy potty" keep your fingers crossed. Here are some pictures of the little guy...

Little naked man in a BIG bath tub...

2011-02-18T12:40:00.001-06:00

Circus shenanigans

2011-02-07T09:38:00.003-06:00

We started the morning of the Circus off on a good note...Austin was completely in awe of all of the colors, sounds and lights!
He thought it was hilarious when the elephants and horse pooped all over the floor...And then...the tight rope went up and he freaked out! He was terrified that they were going to fall and started screaming "No, no! Don't fall!" He was crying and screaming...so I decided we had enough of the circus;) Maybe next year will go a little better.

Lately

2011-01-25T20:35:00.003-06:00

I have really been missing my family lately. I love living down here, and moving really isn't an option, but I just miss everyone back home. On a lighter note my son has turned into quite the little red neck! He loves Monster Trucks and Nascar! He has the most amazing memory in the world too. He only has to see your car once and he could pick it out of a car lot. We were watching a commercial yesterday and he told us that was "Matt's truck, but red" He has probably seen Matt's truck three times in his life! Amazing!

Better late than never...

2011-01-02T19:46:00.009-06:00

A nice warm Christmas Eve fire Austin is excited that Santa is coming tonight!
I told him he had to go too bed or Santa will skip our house
Santa likes a nice red wine with his cookies;)
Watching the Christmas Story with dad

Look what Santa brought!!!Yeah! We have new Scooby Doo episodes to watch!

Santa brought stuff for Libby too

Awesome!

Another car

An awesome lego tractor set from MUD and Aunt BarbIt was all about cars this year
As you can see he has no interest in the PJ's

Dad got some new shirts
I got a purse holder...it is actually cooler than it sounds

A new scarf

Here are our pictures from Christmas...I know it is a little late but the holidays are so busy! Now we are ready to start 2011. The year 2010 has been pretty busy for us but we are fortunate to both have jobs, our health and Austin. We are hoping 2011 will be pretty calm, but you never know what God has planned for you. Either way our New Years resolutions are to get back into shape and get more organized. As you can see remembering to post on the blog is not on the list. I am trying to set obtainable goals:) I have a greater chance of losing 10 pounds than getting Austin to sit still long enough to get a good picture or for me to be able to load it on the blog. Anyway, here is to a better 2011!

Our house is ready for santa...

2010-12-15T13:47:00.004-06:00

Christmas Pics

2010-12-12T14:35:00.002-06:00

Keith and I got to go see Trans Siberian Orchestra, so we decided to take the opportunity to take Christmas pictures while we were all dressed up. I'd say we clean up nice. We have really been trying to decide when and if we will expand our family. We have been researching Day Care's and so far they range from $600 to $1000 per month! We may have to wait until Austin is in school before we have another. I don't know how people afford to have more than one kid in daycare! Not to mention every time they run a fever, even if they are only teething you can't bring them in until they are fever free for at least 24 hours, but here's the kicker...you still have to pay whether your kids is there or not! This concept doesn't make since to me. You are telling me I have to pay for you not to watch my kid while I miss work to keep them home and not get paid...my math may be rusty, but doesn't that put me in the hole?! I can understand now why it's cheaper for some people to quit work. That is not an option for Keith and I, so we may just have to wait or just have one. Anyway, this Christmas Austin is old enough to understand a little about what's going on. He loves Christmas lights and tree's. He calls the water Keith puts in the tree stand the Christmas Tree's juice;) He's such a funny guy. We hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas!!!!

This is the song I sing to Austin...

2010-11-04T09:31:00.005-05:00

When the rain is blowing in your face

And the whole world is on your case

I could offer you a warm embrace

To make you feel my love

When the evening shadows and the stars appear

And there is no one there to dry your tears

I could hold you for a million years

To Make you feel my love

I know you haven't made your mind up yet

But I would never do you wrong

I've known it from the moment that we met

No doubt in my mind where you belong

I'd go hungry, I'd go black and blue

I'd go crawling down the avenue

There's nothing that I wouldn't do

To make you feel my love

The storms are raging on the rolling sea
And on the highway of regret
The winds of change are blowing wild and free
You ain't seen nothing like me yet
I could make you happy, make your dreams come true
Nothing That I wouldn't do
Go to the ends of the earth for you
To make you feel my love
- written by Bob Dylan

A boy and his dog

2010-10-23T18:34:00.002-05:00

I don't have pictures of this...

2010-10-13T07:56:00.004-05:00

The other night I was already having a bad day, but being a mom never stops no matter what kind of day you have. I was getting Austin in the bath, one of his favorite things to do next to going outside and getting dirty. We were splashing and playing and all of the sudden he stops and looks at me and then I saw it...THE POOP FACE!!! Oh, no!
At first he thought it was hilarious when he heard the first "kurplunk" then he saw the panic in my face and he panicked too. I picked him up and ran him to the potty. He just looked at me like, "Oh, we sit on the potty AFTER we go the bathroom?" He was so confused, and now cold and wet. So I whipped his bottom, dried him off and put his pj's on him...Now on to conquer the floaters.
I had to remove his trucks, which ironically the dump truck was carrying a "load" so that was fun, and then I had to drain the tub while fishing out floaters. The toys promptly went to the sink to soak in some disinfectant, and I began scrubbing the tub. You may ask yourself "where was Keith in all of this?" he wisely chose to stay down stairs to watch football and pretend he could hear the commotion upstairs.
However, Austin and the dog were intrigued with what I was doing and had huge smiles on their faces. Needless to say when Keith cheerfully came upstairs to tuck Austin in I had officially morphed into the devil and told him to stay away from me. I suppose I should have been nicer to him, but when you're covered in shit, friendly is hard to find. Anyway, thought I'd share a day in the life of the Kirkland's:)

Kaylan's Toy Story Birthday

2010-10-03T19:25:00.008-05:00

Our friends daughter Kaylan had her 4th birthday party this weekend, and Austin had a blast! It was at this cute place called Cherubs Club House. They had quite the set-up! They also had a great cake made by Shay Cleckler (who also did Austin dump truck cake), and Woody from Toy Story was there (good job Bo). There was also a real fire truck there, which was Austin's favorite.

Looking back

2010-09-30T07:55:00.002-05:00

I was looking back through the blog trying to decide, " Do I really want to go through all this again, and have another baby?" I saw pictures like this, and said...nope, I think we're good with one... Then I saw pictures like this, and said "well, maybe we can have just one more"... We are going to wait a few months, but I think we have decided that Austin really does need someone other than the dog to pick on;)

Future Chef

2010-09-19T20:32:00.002-05:00

Austin loves to help Daddy cook! By the way the pork chops turned out fabulous!

Our Handy Helper

2010-09-12T13:39:00.002-05:00

Austin saw Keith washing dishes and decided he wanted to help. He pushed a chair over there and climbed up to "help"...

War Eagle!

2010-09-08T20:41:00.004-05:00

Here are some more pictures of our football kick off weekend!

The season of virus's

2010-09-08T20:24:00.003-05:00

So far I have had a stomach virus, Austin then got Hand Foot and Mouth, Keith got a stomach virus and then we thought he had Pink eye. The doctors aren't really sure what he has, but he has been the sickest of all of us. Despite it all we still manage to have fun. I am just ready for everyone to feel better. Oh, and you will notice that all of Austin's tractors are tipped up. This is something he picked up from the movie Cars it's called "Tractor Tipping" You will also notice Keith's shirt says Cow Tipping...this was not planned which makes it funnier!

Football season has begun!

2010-09-08T20:19:00.003-05:00

Auburn football officially kicked off last weekend, and Austin was very excited!

2010-08-30T16:41:00.003-05:00

Sorry these are side ways...

Austin is feeling MUCH better!

2010-08-30T16:29:00.002-05:00

Austin had Hand Foot and Mouth last week and it was Horrible! He had blisters in the back of his throat, a 103 fever and kept throwing up. I am SO glad he's better. I have never seen him that sick before:(

Our weekend

2010-08-23T12:33:00.004-05:00

This weekend we decided to relax. Friday we spent the night at one of my companies 5 star resorts Ross Bridge. It is in Hoover which is only 4 minutes from my office, but it was a great get-a-way without having to go away. Then we spent the rest of the weekend lounging around the house and doing laundry. I know it doesn't sound very exciting but we all needed the break! Austin only made us watch cars five times this weekend, and at some point he found a ranch packet in the pantry and you will notice it in some of these pictures;)

Last weekends Birthday Shinanegans

2010-08-10T10:58:00.004-05:00

My extremely cute, but spoiled rotten son got to have three birthday parties this year! On his actual birthday he spent the day with Aunt Lo Lo while Keith and I were at work. She threw him a small party for just the two of them. It was so cute! She had balloons and cupcakes. Then we drove to Kansas and he had a huge party with my clan. My aunt Barb made him a very cool cupcake tractor cake! Finally, last weekend we had a party for the Bama clan at our house. Shay from my office made this awesome dump truck cake! All in all he had a blast and more presents than he needed. We are all truly blessed to have all of you in our lives! Sorry, I don't have many pictures. I always forget the camera;)

Mother's Day out

2010-07-19T16:13:00.002-05:00

This was sign-up day for Austin at Mother's Day out. So far he has done really well, and is picking up some good and not so good social behaviors;) It is cute to see that his truck is his security blanket. As long as he has that he's good. However, he will not share it with anyone. I don't think this should be considered a bad thing. If anything it teaches the other kids to bring their own cool toy and life isn't fair! He will share anything but his truck. You want the truck you will have to pry it from his dead hands. From the look on his face he means it:) Good luck Mother's Day out!

Fourth of July

2010-07-07T08:31:00.003-05:00

We took a family trip to the beach this year with some good friends Steve and Mandy Becker. Obviously, we weren't on the beach due to tar balls, so we stuck inland and played some good games of corn hole...

Daddy get's all the good nap time!

2010-06-28T07:56:00.003-05:00

I am not sure how this happens, but Austin will fall asleep with Keith then I scramble to take a shower, pee, laundry or what ever I can before he wakes up. I think they have some kind of man code worked out:)

playing with Mommy and Libby

2010-06-24T16:17:00.009-05:00

An old lady that is still young at heart. My first baby Libby Lou...

Libby is Austin best friend...

Making silly faces...
Attack!!!
Austin has SO many toys...and he gets a kick out of playing with the door. Opening and closing the door... Behind the door...

Father's Day weekend

2010-06-22T08:05:00.004-05:00

For Father's Day we went to a place called Peach Park in Clanton Alabama. They have the best homemade peach ice cream and a huge park area! Then when we got home Austin decided to "help" Keith in the kitchen and spen some qaulity father son time together...

Austie Cakes

2010-06-16T08:05:00.003-05:00

Austin's first zoo trip

2010-06-14T07:47:00.008-05:00

We went to the zoo with Alana, her son Jack and her nephew Issac. We must have picked the hottest day of the year to go. So, we piled on the sunscreen and drank tons of water!

Austin thought all birds were ducks or roosters. The flamingos threw him off, and he wasn't sure what sounds they made so it came out a mix of a quack and a cock-a-doodle-doo;)

Patiently waiting on the train

Choo-Choo

Trying to climb the walls

Austin thought this monkey was a cat. He kept mewing at it.

He watched the spiders monkeys chase each other around. The only animals awake at this zoo!

Austin thought the monkey's were pretty funny

The kids favorite part of the zoo!

Is it just me or are all the animals in this zoo sleepy?!

They are used to this heat, but I bet that cool rock feels good

"Big cats"

Chillin'

Nap time for the murcats

I don't think we ever found what was in this exhibit

I had help pushing the stroller around

The zoo wore him out
Yes, that says 102! Needless to say we left the zoo and went straight for frozen yogurt!

2010-06-07T09:40:00.002-05:00

Aunt LoLo can't even water her yard without Austin's "help". He loves to hep out. Last night he helped Keith wash the potatoes for dinner, and he likes to throw his trash away. I have read that you should let them help you. We try to do this even if it takes us an extra hour to sort laundry because he has a different method to sorting clothes;) I figure we should enjoy it while it lasts. Eventually the thought of chores will send him running. Anyway, I hope everyone enjoyed the beautiful weather this past weekend. Next week I should have pictures of Austin's first trip to the zoo! I am very excited about it! He loves animals, and I have a feeling he will have a blast.

Party till he drops

2010-06-03T07:56:00.002-05:00

Austin plays so hard...then he passes out hard. He has began to practice his fit throwing already. He is quite good at it. He really only does it when it's time to go to bed. He wants to stay up forever and read books. We read to him every night, but when it starts to get late we tell him it's time for bed...then the fit begins. I know reading is great for him, but he needs sleep to be a healthy child and the last thing I want is for him to get sick! I think he is just afraid he is going to miss something. Once he finally falls asleep he is good until morning, but for about an hour every night this week he has screamed and kicked. I wonder how long this faze will last?! He's not even 2 yet!!!

Memorial Day fun

2010-06-01T08:10:00.005-05:00

We had a relaxing day in the pool. We dodged ran all weekend, but had a few moments of sunshine.

Mexico!

2010-06-01T08:05:00.003-05:00

We had a great time! Beautiful beaches, wonderful people and perfect weather.

Austin is driving...watch out world!!!

2010-05-19T10:00:00.002-05:00

If your blinkers don't work use your hands for signalsGet out of the road!

When your car dies you have to get out and push;)

Don't forget the emergency break, or your car may get a way from you! Austin loves his new hot rod!

Little Beethoven

2010-05-18T08:07:00.001-05:00

After a hard day of playing in the sprinklers outside, Austin decides to play a little concerto to wind down for the day...

Some summer time fun

2010-05-13T15:51:00.001-05:00

I love this one. It almost like you can feel the tension from the cat...

He loves his trucks

Van the Man

2010-05-12T14:40:00.003-05:00

First of all...very disappointed with Van Morrison. We were SO excited that we were finally going to get to see him, and when we got there he didn't play any of his best songs. He didn't play Tupelo Honey or Into the Mystic! They weren't allowed to serve beer and you could not take any pictures or they'd throw you out (and trust me they did throw people out) Regardless, we still managed to have a fun trip. Can't say we will ever pay that much to see him again, but we are still fans of the diva. We went to an old Irish pub after the concert and a live band was playing some Celtic tunes. We had more fun there than at the concert!

More play room pictures...

2010-05-05T11:03:00.002-05:00

I know I haven't posted in a while, but life got a little crazy in April. We did find some time to play though.

Playing in the play room

2010-05-05T10:48:00.003-05:00

Austin and Keith shooting hoops in the play room. Mom, as you can see it still needs painted...hint, hint, wink, wink;) Maybe Austin will get some height from the Lee side. If not, he may just have to get REALLY good at shooting three's.

Puppy Power

2010-04-20T11:26:00.008-05:00

Some friends of ours just got a new puppy. We took Austin over there to play, and he was in little boy heaven! They ran and played, and ran some more. I think Austin actually wore the pup out. Now he knows how I feel;)

Austin and Mommy's relaxing weekend

2010-04-15T08:49:00.004-05:00

This was on Northern Alabama's campus. It was called "Laughing Lions". Austin petted and crawled all over it like he does Libby.In the Lion's den. Austin called them tigers and made roaring noises at them.

The best park ever, and it was right outside our hotel!

The view of the pool from our balconyAustin loved the pillows and comfy bedOn our way home...we were exhausted!

Enjoying the great weather

2010-04-13T19:08:00.002-05:00

Austin loves the outdoors so much so he is thrilled that the weather has been sunny and warm. He and I spent the weekend in Florence Alabama. My camera battery died so I will have to retrieve pictures from my phone. Our weekend was just what I needed. We stayed at the Marriott and they have a great pool and awesome play ground. We also spent some time on Northern Alabama's campus. Their mascot is the Lion and they had real lions there on campus in a natural cage area. Austin was very excited, but kept calling them tigers and roaring at them. It was pretty cute. We relaxed each night at the hotel with our balcony door open and the sound of the waterfall from the pool. He and I both love this weather, warm sunny days and cool breezy nights. Neither one of us wanted to leave. As far as my health goes, they still have no idea what is wrong with me, but I am still having issues, and still feel the same. I think it's time for me to move on to another hospital and get a second opinion. I am just tired of feeling this way. I will keep everyone posted.

Easter weekend

2010-04-05T16:22:00.005-05:00

Easter morning, Batman and Super Dog came downstairs to see what the Easter Bunny brought. In his Sunday best, we headed over to Keith's parents for Easter lunch, and a good ol' fashion Easter egg hunt. I was in charge of hiding the eggs, which was their first mistake. I hid them so well even I couldn't find the last one! Nana will probably find it while she's gardening, or some squirrel will think he just hit the jack-pot;)In 86 degree weather the dress shirt didn't last long!
You're never too young or too old to Easter egg hunt!

Sorry, it's been awhile...

2010-04-02T08:43:00.002-05:00

Due to some health issues I have been having I haven't been paying enough attention to my blog. Here are some pictures of the crazy kid from this week. He's getting so big so fast! AS far as my health concerns, hopefully in the next week or so my test results should be back to see what's going on. I will keep you all posted. Have a Happy Easter!

Playing ball with your buddies...

2010-03-24T08:43:00.003-05:00

We had a cook out last weekend and the boys were all playing some basketball. Watching them play was way more exciting than the KU game that followed. Austin was so cute cheering Jack on when Matt put him up for a dunk. I think these two are going to make a great team!

Austin's first black eye

2010-03-19T13:37:00.004-05:00

Austin fell and hit his face on the corner of a box Thursday. The bruise is really not that bad, and you can barely see it now. I know it's definitely not the last or the worst but it still breaks my heart to see him hurt. Although, he doesn't seem real torn up about it at all...

Fun weekend

2010-03-16T08:02:00.002-05:00

The past couple of weeks Austin has played out side and is loving it! If it were up to him he'd stay out there forever, but mean ol' mom always makes him come in at some point.And then he passed out!

Reading time

2010-03-12T08:01:00.002-06:00

This may be the first time I have ever seen Keith read a book! Austin loves reading and will bring you books constantly to read with him. He just had one of his 2 year moeller's come in! I can't believe he already has all those teeth. I remember when he was just gums and drool. Sorry I haven't been posting as frequently, but it has been SO busy around here. There just doesn't seem to be enough time in the day to get everything done!

Trampoline fun

2010-03-02T08:39:00.002-06:00

Last Sunday we went to hang out with Ericka and the boys. My littlest brother Joey wanted Austin and I to get on the trampoline with him SO bad. I was hesitant at first but decided "what the heck". Turns out Austin LOVED it!

Old man winter...go away

2010-02-25T09:34:00.003-06:00

Dreaming of swimming in the pool and cold glasses of lemonade!

Teething

2010-02-24T08:08:00.002-06:00

Austin is having a harder time with his incisors coming in. I would imagine those hurt a little more than the others being as sharp as they are. He is drooling a lot more with these, running low grade fevers, and of course the diapers aren't fun either. He is taking it like a champ though, and doesn't really want to gnaw on anything. They look like they are about to cut through the gums so hopefully he will have a break for a while. We had such a great week weather wise last week and this week it's snowing again! I am SO over this winter stuff. I want global warming to come back! I absolutely hate being cold. When I am so cold my fingers don't work it gives me the urge to slap Al Gore right in the face. When it was too warm and "Global Warming" was melting away the habitats for the polar bears and penguins everyone was so sad they had tel-a-thons, and now that it's so cold because of "Climate Change"they will probably start pulling everyone's heart strings for the little birds that can't fly home or the poor mammals that can't come out of hibernation or eat because everything is frozen. I am thinking we could move to the Caribbean and become fisherman and coconut farmers.

At the park enjoying the beautiful weather

2010-02-22T09:01:00.005-06:00

We had such a nice weekend down here! It was in the 60's and sunny Friday, Saturday and Sunday! This just made our spring fever even worse. I took my niece Kelsie and our friends Bill and Betsy daughter Devan to the park. They took their scooters and rode the bike trails around the park. Austin of course was so jealous that he couldn't go that fast, but he did his best to keep up anyway. Afterwards, we went to Dairy Queen and enjoyed some hot fudge Sunday's then home to relax in the bean bag chairs. All three kids were completely wore out, the girls bellies happy with ice cream and smelled like sunscreen and sweat. I love the warm weather and days like this!

Kelsie Ann

Devan the speedster
and they're off...
Wait for me!
Those girls are way to fast!

Napping partners

2010-02-18T12:00:00.002-06:00

Poor Libby! Almost every time she tries to lay down in her bed Austin feels the need to go over there and lay, climb and roll all over her. We wonder why she never wants to lay in her bed;) I just remind her that this is payback from her puppy days when she chewed up my stuff, whined through the night or went to the bathroom on my floor. She doesn't seem amused...

Valentines

2010-02-17T11:15:00.003-06:00

These were my Valentines Flowers from Alana Jack! They also got Austin a stuffed Love Bug. They came over for dinner and I was so excited that I forgot to take pictures:) Keith made quite the spread of course! He made some shrimp toast for our appetizers and for dinner he made Steaks with an onion and mushrooms and loaded backed potatoes. I made my first cheesecake from scratch, and surprisingly it turned out REALLY good. Hope everyone else had a great V-Day with the people they love!

Austin and his BIG BOY bed

2010-02-12T08:40:00.003-06:00

Austin has been sleeping in his big boy bed for an entire week! He is such a good kid, but I guess I am bias;) He refuses to sleep with covers and has to have his head burrowed in pillows. We have the monitor in there and Keith took the box spring out so his bed is really low to the ground. The pillows probably remind him of sleeping next to us...which just reminds me that I need to exercise more! We are also lucky that he wakes up in such a great mood. In the mornings we will hear him on the monitor. He will sit up in his bed and say " Daddy? Daaaaddddyyy." Or he will point out all of the trucks or "dacks" in his room, and as you can see from his sheets that can keep him occupied for quite awhile:)

Our visit with the Treadwells

2010-02-11T10:51:00.003-06:00

Went went to our friends Mike and Stephanie's for dinner last week. Their son Logan is 9 months younger than Austin, but they played very well together. I am so glad that Austin will have so many of our friends children around his age to play with....
My son making himself comfortable...

Austin and Logan mesmerized by Baby Einstein... This can't be good..."Here, catch Logan!"
Luckily he missed and Logan thought it was hilarious!

Got some great books from the Craig's!

2010-02-04T08:43:00.002-06:00

Getting him to sit down and read is quite the task. He has way too much Petty in him to sit for long periods of time, and by long I mean 2 minutes;) Carrie sent several great books that we can read to Austin before bed. I remember when Manda and I would stay with her she would read to us, and when she had Owen and Joe they would read every night as a family. This is a tradition that I am excited to carry on!Look at those puffy cheeks! I can't help but kiss them all the time. I will take advantage of it until the day he pushes me away and says"gross Mom!"
Feeling some new teeth coming in with his tongue

This book is his favorite! Carrie told me it was one of Owen and Joe's favorites too.
He points to the stick figures and calls them "Tywer" and "DeDe" (his cousins Tyler and Kelsie)

Rolk Chalk Jayhawk

2010-02-01T13:17:00.002-06:00

Austin watched the KU-KState game with me this weekend. He thinks it's funny when Mommy gets upset at the T.V. He looks so good in his KU gear! Thank you to everyone who supplied us with some red and blue. Now if I could only find a KU monster truck for him to carry around:)

5 things...in response to M.U.D's post

2010-01-28T13:51:00.003-06:00

Okay, I had to narrow this down to 5…
5 TV Shows I Watch
1. Bones- Only grown up show Keith and I watch
2. Mickey Mouse Club House-Every Saturday morning at 8 Austin LOVES it
3. Handy Manny-right after Mickey Mouse
4. Imagination Movers- after Handy Manny
5. Anything on HGTV- when Austin is napping;)

5 Favorite Places to Eat and Drink
1. My house, Keith’s a great chef
2. Outback-always get the outback special
3. Fire Birds- #1 steak in Alabama and their BLT salad is delicious
4. Konnitiwa-best sushi ever! A hole in the wall in Mobile Al
5. Margaritas at Habaneras with my best friend

5 Things I Look Forward To:
1. Austin
2. Cancun with my lovely husband, sister and best friends
3. Visiting with friends and family back home
4. Summer
5. Sunday bubble baths with a good book and a glass of wine

5 Things I Love About Summer: (sorry, not a fan of Winter)
1. The sun
2. Swimming all day and grilling at night
3. Long days
4. vacations
5. Me and Austin’s Birthday!

5 Things On My Wish List:
1. Having enough money so I could stay home with my kids
2. Travel to Ireland, Italy, Australia…
3. Have more time to paint
4. Honda Pilot
5. Seeing my family more

5 Things I Am Passionate About Important to Me
1. Keith and Austin-they are my life
2. Family and Friends- I am overprotective and loyal to a fault
3. My home- we put most of our time, sweat and money into making our home they way we want it
4. Education-I believe the key to our future is in the intellect of our citizens
5. Justice-I wouldn’t argue the death penalty with me…you will lose

5 Things I Have Learned From the Past
1. Hard work does pay off
2. Pick your battles; learn when to shut up
3. Sometimes you should just suck it up and ask for help
4. Karma is a bitch. She may take awhile but she always strikes eventually.
5. You will lose people you love, and it will feel like your heart is being ripped out of your chest, but the heart is strong and it will heal.

5 Things I Want/Need
1. I need to get my oil changed in my car
2. I want a new car
3. I need/want to hold my son and tell him I love him
4. I need to put my laundry away and clean my house…
5. I want someone else to do it :)

Boys always end up in their underwear...

2010-01-26T08:40:00.002-06:00

We spent Saturday at Alana's with her son Jack who's 3 and her nephew Isaac who's 7. I think these pictures will tell you how much fun everyone had;) It's funny how they all decided it would be more fun if they were as close to naked as we would allow. Men never change...Jack was Breaking it down
Everyone dancin' in their underwear...well not Alana and I;)
Austin is very content...naked playing with trucks

"Don't judge me. I make this pull-up look good!"
Boys will be boys
Playing in the tunnel

What a bunch of hams
This is when Austin decided he wanted to have more fun and be naked too
He started with removing his socks, and the rest was not far behind

Buds

2010-01-25T08:53:00.002-06:00

Keith was out of town this weekend so Alana and Jack came over Friday night for a sleep over. We had a blast! I am so glad these boys will have each other and they get along great. Something tells me as they get older they will have just as much fun as their daddy's did. So, pray for us;)

My hero

2010-01-19T09:47:00.002-06:00

Paw-Paw

2010-01-18T08:27:00.003-06:00

I was trying to get Austin dressed Sunday morning, and he decided after he had his socks and "underwear/diaper" he didn't need anything else on. He ran around laughing and having a blast. I think he'd be so content to just run around naked all the time! At least it's warming up here so I don't have to worry about him catching a cold. He looks like an ol' paw-paw but it doesn't look like he cares;)

Can't live without it

2010-01-14T07:57:00.002-06:00

If you have noticed almost every picture of Austin he is carrying a car, truck or tractor in his hands. Isn't it funny how we are all pre-wired as children? He just picked a car up one day and knew exactly what noise to make and how. It's like little girls immediately know how to nurture. It's so much fun watching his mind work as he plays with his toys or flips through his books. Right now he is having trouble enunciating his T's. So, when he says truck it actually comes out duck, or tractor is dactor. I try to be very articulate when I say these words so hopefully he will understand. Our friend Alana had the same issue with Jack except his T's were F's. Needless to say she was nervous every time he saw a truck in the store;) He can say it the right way now so I am not too worried about Austin.

This is the life!

2010-01-12T08:25:00.003-06:00

Libby has really loved being a "Cuntree" dog. She is 11 and probably in the best shape of her life. She has 4 1/2 acres of land and plenty of room to sun bath, chase animals she'll never catch, and roll in God knows what. Austin shares her enthusiasm of the great outdoors, but we don't let him roll in things. Just can't wait for warmer weather so we can all jump in the pool!

Austin got a grill for Christmas...or is it a shopping cart?

2010-01-06T08:18:00.002-06:00

Apparently, Austin hasn't really watched Keith grill. I think he is a little confused as to how it is supposed to be used. Oh well, he is having a good time with it!

Baby it's cold outside!

2010-01-05T08:17:00.002-06:00

They are talking snow down here!!! I know you folks in Kansas don't feel sorry for me, but I don't think they even have snow plows down here. If it snows the whole state shuts down! I guess I will be one of those crazies in Walmart buying water and toilet paper. Hope everyone had a Happy New Years. Keith and I are going to Cancun this May and we have to get our bodies back into shape. I guess that could be our New Year Resolution, but I think I am going to add another one. I am going to try and enjoy life a little more. Not stress out so much. That may not seem like a big deal to most, but to any of those who really know me I stress out to the point I make myself sick. I try not to, but I am a "bit" of a control freak;) and when I start to lose control I start to have panic attacks. I know our family doesn't have a great track record with heart attacks, and I seem to have some sort of Lymph Node problem that has stumped the medical world. So, in order to be healthy and not drive my husband crazy, I am going to make an extra effort to just breath and settle down. Wish me luck! Stay warm everyone.

I think the bean bag chairs are a hit!

2009-12-28T09:59:00.003-06:00

Christmas morning

2009-12-28T09:35:00.008-06:00

Christmas morning coming down the stairs to see what Santa brought..."Hurry Mom! Santa's been here!" Santa left us bean bag chairs for the play room. I am not sure who was more excited, Keith or Austin! I had so much help opening presents;) Austin wouldn't open them by himself, but if I started to open one he wanted to help.Austin got a sing-a-long broom so he can sweep with MommyI will have to thank my Mom for the Popper! I have a feeling that it will accidentally get left in Kansas when we come to visit:)We were so blessed and had a wonderful Christmas. Austin got some great things, and couldn't wait to play with them ALL over the house. Afterwards he was so pooped he took a good nap in his new bean bag chairs!

Christmas Eve...waiting on Santa

2009-12-28T09:19:00.006-06:00

We had the stockings hanging with care...Made cookies for Santa and left celery for Rudolf (we were out of carrots)
"I haven't been in the cookies mom! What gave you that idea?!"

Austin, Libby and Sam (the sock monkey) trying to stay awake for Santa's arrival

Watching the Christmas story

Been hanging out with Dad

2009-12-23T08:39:00.002-06:00

Keith has the whole week off, and he and Austin got to spend some quality time together. Needless to say, Keith called me at work Monday asking me when I'd be home;) This kid is a full time job. I think now Keith has a new found respect for his parents. Luck for Keith he had Libby to help him;)

Do you see something wrong with this picture?! The big red pillow that Austin is laying on is Libby's new dog bed she got for Christmas to keep her off of the rug:)

Good morning sunshine!

2009-12-22T08:45:00.003-06:00

Austin wakes up in the best moods! Something he definitely got from his father. He is going through this closing doors faze. Here he is trying to close me in the sun room.Time to eat!

Nice bed head
Now it's time for some Mickey Mouse Club House!

Chubby cheeks

2009-12-15T12:37:00.002-06:00

I love these cheeks so much! The Holiday's just remind me how blessed I really am. I have a wonderful family and the greatest group of friends. I have these cute chubby cheeks to kiss and squeeze everyday, a beautiful home, and a wonderful dog...though she stinks, she is the best dog in the world...and Austin's best friend. I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Sick Dad!

2009-12-14T11:11:00.002-06:00

These pictures are from two weekends ago, because this weekend Keith stayed far away from us! He was the sickest I have ever seen him! We think it is a stomach virus, but the doctors suspect food poisoning. Tyler along with the rest of the wrestling team is sick as well, so I vote virus! Austin and I tried to stay out of the house as much as possible, and Saturday I sanitized as much as I could while he napped. I really hope he doesn't get it! So far he hasn't gotten sick like that. I know it's coming, but I really would like to avoid it as long as possible. Keith is back at work today but still not feeling great. He had to call in sick last Friday for the first time EVER! He is now on antibiotics so I hope he will be feeling better soon. I am actually quite surprised that I haven't caught it yet. I am normally the sickly one, and my lymph nodes have been going a little crazy lately.

Christmas pictures

2009-12-12T11:46:00.002-06:00

I was at work, but I heard getting Austin to sit still was like getting congress to decide on health care!

Miss Sassy!
Give me a kiss!Ah! Aren't they precious?!

I think Austin...and Grandpa are done with this photo shoot

My handy little Helper!

2009-12-09T09:37:00.002-06:00

Austin loves to help with household chores! His favorite is laundry and dishes but he has discovered the broom now. I am sure he will grow out of it, but for now we try to encourage it. Last night he got a hold of my cell phone and called my mom on speaker phone! He thought that was pretty funny. He is getting into anything and everything now! I wish you guys could see him. He runs instead of walks and throws a mean left handed pitch, and is pretty accurate with kicking his soccer balls into his little goal mom got him. We will be there in June and I hope everyone is ready for hurricane Austin:) No object is safe!

Putting up the tree

2009-12-07T09:04:00.003-06:00

Look at all of those presents! Rotten to the core;)So excited! Must do the Happy Dance!
Spotted a car ornament
Oh Christmas Tree

Yee-Haw

2009-12-02T15:09:00.002-06:00

Getting the funny farm decorated for Christmas!

More pics from our visit

2009-12-01T08:38:00.002-06:00

"Here Grandma J! I will help you wrap presents!""Okay, I am over present wrapping. What else can I get into?"
After taking a 3 hour nap on Grandma J, Austin was ready to play! He even gave us the stinker face...
This is where the serious cuddling took place...

So sweet! Austin misses his Grandma J and Auntie Pooh already!

OK...finally pictures!

2009-11-28T08:19:00.002-06:00

Yeah! They are finally here!!! Manda was so excited to see her little Boo Bear that she didn't even care that she was forced to watch Mickey Mouse:) This is a look I get from his father a lot..
Playing drums with...on his best friend Libby

Oh no!!! Mommy got him

Austin and Nic

2009-11-19T09:06:00.003-06:00

We went to a Pampered Chef party the other day at Lori's and my friend Shay brought her son Nicholai over to play with Austin. He will be 1 next month so he and Austin are pretty close in age. They had such a great time together! It was fun watching them play...

They followed each other everywhere...Austin showed Nic that he was his bud by giving him friendly pats;) This may seem strange but this is what he does to Libby dog...his Best Friend. Nic didn't seem to mind. In fact he gave Austin some pats on the head too.

Playing with Daddy

2009-11-16T07:59:00.002-06:00

It always starts off sweet and innocent...Then "Wham" Austin strikes...

Then Dad pulls a full on tackle. All I hear is giggling in the living room and this is what I walk in on;)

My new chair

2009-11-12T09:08:00.002-06:00

Austin inherited his Uncle Joey's little rocking chair. He was in Heaven Saturday morning, in his Curious George PJ's, watching Mickey Mouse Playhouse in his own chair with ALL of his toys strung about the living room.

The rocking chair is REALLY cool but nothing beats snuggling with Mommy and Daddy!

Driver's ED

2009-11-09T13:20:00.004-06:00

Austin's driving skills are a little lacking, but I try to stay calm...and supportive when he wrecks and his daddy lectures him about driving more carefully...

My buddy and me...

2009-11-03T14:47:00.003-06:00

Austin watching Jack maneuver a remote control car from a far.."Watch out Ma! You might get run over"
"Look Austin! It can do wheelies in the grass too!"

Following the leader...

Guns n' Roses

2009-11-02T09:44:00.002-06:00

Welcome to the Jungle! The Hulk is there too! I know...I look more like Bret Michaels than Axel Rose;) Slash is freaking the Incredible Hulk out a little bit... Sweet Child of mine. Slash's famous guitar...

Boys

2009-10-29T08:26:00.003-05:00

Nothing like hangin' out in the PJ's on a Sunday! Austin has found humor in burping and farting loudly. He also thinks it's hilarious to spit or throw his food on the floor and watch Libby eat it. Pray for me! I guess boys are just wired differently, but I hope this is just a disgusting faze that he will out grow. I try to not give him any attention but at the same time I want to tell him no. Either way he has my stubbornness and will most likely do as he pleases;) I guess I deserve that. I find myself again apologizing for all the terrorizing I did as a child. Sorry Mom, Grandma, Aunt Carrie, Aunt Kay Kay, Aunt Barb and Uncle Denny, Grandma Petty, Grandpa, Uncle Alan, Uncle Dan...the list goes on! You should find comfort in knowing that I am getting my pay-back :) He's still a really good kid and does listen very well, but has a streak of mischief and silliness that I believe will challenge Keith and I daily. I have a feeling he will be the kid that comes up with all of the "plans" and have a friend or younger sibling to execute them. Wait...this sounds familiar. Yep. This sounds like me and Manda, or Owen and Joe. Yep, I am definitely in trouble!

Punkin'

2009-10-27T10:58:00.002-05:00

Wait up GiGi and Uncle Joey!Mommy! Can I have this Pumpkin?!
These punkin's are little just like me!
So many to choose from

This one is just the right size

Playing with my buddy Jack

2009-10-22T12:13:00.002-05:00

Nap time with Grandpa

2009-10-21T09:36:00.001-05:00

He plays and plays and plays until he eventually passes out.

The Fall weather is finally here!

2009-10-19T15:14:00.005-05:00

We had so much fun playing outside this weekend! The weather was perfect! I made Austin wear a hat much to his dismay...

Batman!

2009-10-15T08:19:00.002-05:00

Super hero's play with their toys too ya know! I found Nana in the Bat Cave! Come on Grandpa! You can be Robyn. Let's go wake up Nana and fire up the Bat Mobile! It's never too early in the morning to protect Gotham from evil villains!

Dad-de-de-de-de...

2009-10-13T07:54:00.003-05:00

Everything is about Daddy these days. Remember when all he would say was "Mamma"? Now everything is "Daddy". When he waves bye bye he says it, when he plays with his toys, talks to the dog, runs around the house and the yard. The only time he doesn't say it is when he talks about his Nana (Keith's Mom).
"Look Dad! Play with me!" "Pay attention to me! Look! I can drive my front loader just like you!"
I will catch him every once in a while and he still loves cuddles with his Mommy...

Pit Stop

2009-10-07T08:12:00.002-05:00

After an exhausting round of throwing koozies all over the kitchen Austin needed some re-fueling...

Daddy's little helper

2009-10-06T08:00:00.005-05:00

On the big laundry day Keith brings everything down stairs and sorts through it. Austin of course must help him...
"Here Dad I'll help you..."

"Don't forget to take your belts out"

"Make sure to separate your whites and and colors, lights and darks"

"Jeez Dad! Why do you have so much laundry!"