Tillie's Tales

Happy 3rd Birthday

2011-07-23T07:35:00.004-05:00

Time needs to slow way down!! I cannot believe that Tillie Ann is 3 years old today! It makes me so sad that just the other day it seems she was this little.

Then we celebrated the huge milestone of making it to her 1st birthday and that was too quick.

Her 2nd birthday came and went just like a sweet smelling fragrance.

Then, today she is 3 years old and I am wondering where the time has gone?!

HAPPY 3rd BIRTHDAY Sweet girl!!

Benjamin Cook Has Arrived

2011-07-14T09:52:00.004-05:00

Look closely and you can see four hands! One hand of a happy big brother, 2 hands of the proud parents and on tiny hand of Benjamin Lane Cook. He came into this world weighing 9 pounds and 21.5 inches long at 5:20p.m. Tuesday, July 12

Benjamin and Jackson! See any similarities?!

Like a Little Fish...

2011-07-03T20:51:00.002-05:00

Little fish is what we have been calling Tillie the last couple of months. Since in the new house we have a pool, we thought it would be best to enroll Tillie in her first of many swimming lessons. Mrs. Kim is the local guru on swimming. Anyone you ask around town says that Kim is the one to go see. She is so good that I had to call in March to be able to get an appointment in June. After many days of preparing Tillie for what was going to happen, the day and time was here. Mrs. Kim doesn't allow parents to accompany their children into the pool area. They have to walk in by themselves. We had already talked about this with Tillie, and hope she was prepared. Mrs. Kim greeted us at the gate and told all the anxious parents what was happening and what to expect. When she said "it will get worse before it gets better", I kinda got a little nervous. Tillie is usually a big girl, but when others are crying she tends to get a little clingy. So, the time was here and Mrs. Kim told all the kids to come on and for the parents to stay. Little Miss Big Girl walked right on in and never looked back. She swam and swam. This was my view for the hour.

Can you see her little head? I new she would do great, but I never expected the results that she achieved. Tillie can now swim under water, on her back, and knows what to do if she falls into the water.

The lessons lasted two weeks. Needless to say next year we will be back at Mrs. Kim's yelling "Come get us"!

Missed Me

2011-05-17T10:22:00.011-05:00

Hi everyone!! Missed me??????? Well I have been up to a lot of things. I had a play date with my friend, Ginna Bess. We went to the cow place (I don't like the cow) and ate some chicken and fries then we played in the playhouse. But, Mommy wasn't happy with me before we went because I wanted to wear my snowman shirt even though it was Spring time, but she will hopefully not be to mad a me much longer. She says that it is just a phase, but I like what I like. So, anyways enjoy me and my friend Ginna Bess playing!

Last month, my Daddy turned 30. Mommy says he is old and jokes with him all the time about it, but she will be there in only a year so.... I had to help him blow his candles out and make a wish. Mommy and I created him a scavenger hunt that led to his gift. He had a lot of fun finding his Auburn print. Daddy says that I did good picking it out.

He Arose! That is what I learned from the next big thing that has happened. Jesus came out of the tomb that he was buried in after being hurt on the cross. Mommy and Daddy told me this story and told me that one day Jesus will be MY Savior and live in my heart. Mommy showed me some pictures of a tomb and I saw the clothes that were folded. Mommy got sad when she was talking about it, so it must have been really sad. Mommy and Daddy told me that one day I would know all about it. Jesus must really love me to get hurt for me. At school, my teacher taught us about Jesus dying too. We also had a party and hunted eggs. I had so much fun with my friends. Then, at church we had an egg hunt too. There were so many eggs I couldn't get them all. But, most of all there were bouncy slides. I had so much fun and I also cried to leave. i hope I get one of these at my birthday party! (HINT, Mommy and Daddy). Even my friend Ella was there. I was so tired that day. My BB gave me my basket so I could use it. I think it is so pretty because it's pink and has my name on it! Then it was time for the Easter Bunny to come. Mommy and Daddy woke me up that morning because that goofy bunny hid my basket and they could find it! I found it in the closet. Silly bunny! After bunny time, we got ready and headed to church. Daddy and Mommy said that next year that I would be old enough to go to sunrise service. Daddy just went this year and I slept. After church we went to Granny Ham's. I had so much fun with my Aunt Charlotte. She is so funny and hid me eggs that I could find and one had money in it! After spending time there we went to Rowan and Tuckers grandparents. Rowan had a water table and I loved it. I got so wet and had to change clothes. Then I went to my Pawpaw and Nanny's. I just hid eggs there. Plus that silly bunny brought me some clothes and a beach towel at their house.

So this is what has been going on at my house! Talk to you soon!

Love,

Tillie Ann

Publix Trip

2011-03-26T18:50:00.002-05:00

I feel as though I haven't blogged in so long. But I have a good reason for not blogging. I have picked up a new hobby: COUPONING!! I love it. At first it was hard, but now I feel that I have a better understanding. I have gathered coupons from sites as well as the newspaper. I have a couponing binder (I know my coworkers have made so much fun of it).

So today I ventured out to Publix. I love this place. Because of there good sales I am creating a great stockpile for this summer. And the good news is that I have almost saved our budgeted dollar amount this month.

Ok so back to today......

I went with a pile of coupons in hand and walked out with this huge amount of items and only spent $54.19. Yep that is right only fifty dollars. So I love it is all I can say.

The Storm

2011-02-26T10:34:00.002-06:00

On Thursday night we had some major storms and high winds in our area. As I laid in bed that night waiting for them to come, I started thinking about the "storms" that I had been through here lately. I thought, would it be a small storm like a recent argument with my dear hubby or would it be a big storm like I have been dealing with at work. As I laid there and thought about it, I began singing in my heart (because I didn't want to wake anyone) a song we had learned a couple of weeks ago in choir:

In the dark of the midnight Have I oft hid my face; While the storms howl above me, And there is no hiding place. Mid the crash of the thunder, Precious Lord, hear my cry; Keep me safe until the storm passes by.

Until the storm passes over, Until the thunder sounds no more. Until the clouds roll forever from the sky. Hold me fast let me stand in the hollow of thy hand. Keep me safe til the storm passes by.

As I sang this song I had complete peace with the anticipated storm as well as the other "storms" that are brewing in life. I was then able to roll over and go to sleep. The following morning as I was going to work, I saw this beautiful picture God seemed to create for me to remind me that he has me " in the hollow of his hand" until all the storms of life are over.

Just Because

2011-02-06T15:49:00.001-06:00

Tillie was so sleepy coming home from church today. She fell asleep while eating a huge bucket of cheese balls her Nanny sent her.

Barbie Jeep Time

2011-02-06T03:47:00.002-06:00

Tillie got a Barbie Jeep from Santa Claus this year. She had been asking for it for months. (Thanks pawpaw). Over Christmas she was sick, then it snowed, and then we went back to school so she wasn't able to ride it outside! (Yes, we did let her ride in the house). So last weekend it was so beautiful here and we were able to finally take it for a spin and she absolutely loved it. The only problem with the Jeep is, Tillie is so little Buddy has to hold down the opposite side when she was going up hill or she would spin out. We later put a big rock on that side and it worked great. Needless to say when the Jeep had to "get gas", she wasn't happy. So come on spring so we can fire the Jeep up again!

Christmas 2010 Part 1

2010-12-28T12:39:00.005-06:00

This Christmas was so much fun. Tillie is at the age that she kinda understands and love to open presents.

She started the season out by having her Christmas party at school. They has so much food and all of Tillie's favorites.

Her teachers were so sweet to give each of the kids stockings and baskets full of candy and toys. She had a blast.

Then, we headed to the Coston Christmas. We had so much fun playing with "The Coolest Big Brother ", Jackson. Yep, that is right Aunt Adrian has a baby in her belly.

Tons of fun and tons of wrapping paper trash.

On the annual game night at the Hamilton's we had a bad run in with a table. This sent us to the local ER to get glued. Thank goodness that we didn't have to have stitches.

Christmas Eve we headed off to Nanny and Papaws. There Tillie found a huge trampoline and several other things, including a 102 degree fever that made her miserable.

She also got the baby that she had been wanting that "jumps up and down like this" as she proceeds to do the motion.

Stay tuned for the next part of Christmas.

Say Cheese!!

2010-12-02T16:05:00.004-06:00

Most of the time taking pictures of Tillie is very easy, but when you want her to do a certain something or look a certain way it is well impossible. But with the new designs of cards at Shutterfly, the sillier the picture the better. For the past two years we have done the traditional take a picture in p.j.s and send it to Wal Mart for the printable cards that don't hold a lot of information. If you are like me, I love getting Christmas cards that have what the family has been up too since the last time we saw them. I love this. I feel like I can catch up this way, especially with friends and family that I never get to see. My Granny Ham keeps her Christmas cards in a sleigh on her desk, and every Christmas I look forward to read all the happenings with relatives that live down South. So this year I am thinking about one of these cards,

or maybe one of these

or even this one is too cute.

So if you like these or maybe want something totally different, shutterfly is offering 50 free cards for blogging about your favorite cards. Go here to find out more. So I guess I need to get to shooting Tillie and try to capture that perfect picture and try to remember everything that has happened in 2010.

(All images from Shutterfly.com)

Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Dora

2010-11-29T19:50:00.006-06:00

BUSY, BUSY, BUSY

Doesn't even begin to describe us here lately. So in this post you will have about 3 months worth of posts. A lot of pictures and not many words.

Tillie actually cleaned out her pumpkin this year. Love the expression on her face.

Tillie was a sweet little pig for Halloween. We only made it a few places, but I think she still had fun.

We started Thanksgiving off this year at Grandmas where we found Brandon and Rowen. This little guy is growing up way too fast. He will be one in a couple of months.

Tucker (who will be one next month), and Rowan had fun playing with Tillie. She didn't know what to think of them.

The next day we went to Granny Ham's and Daddy Jack's.

Jackson and Tillie had so much fun playing at the pond.

I thought this picture was too sweet not to post.

Tonight we started a new tradition at our house.

I saw this last year and looked all over the state for one and this year I finally got one. Yes it was for my anniversary in October, but I got it.

Meet Santa's helper "Dora".

Here is Dora watching Tillie while she watches Barney! Stay tuned for more Dora updates.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-20T08:11:00.001-05:00

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-20T07:59:00.005-05:00

This year we tried a new pumpkin patch. It was local. We had a blast even though they didn't have as much as Tate Farms did the previous year.

We picked pumpkins.

We painted pumpkins.

We slide down the slide.

We rode the cow train.

We even rode a horse swing.

We just had fun being silly.

Dust Bunny: Just for Aunt Adrian

2010-10-18T20:06:00.003-05:00

Dear Aunt Adrian,

My mommy told me that you called her a dust bunny when she was my age when she looked like this. So, I guess I take after my mommy. Enjoy this Aunt Adrian!

Love you, Tillie Ann

A New House

2010-10-18T19:58:00.003-05:00

We have officially moved AGAIN! This time is for a much longer time than the last. This house is twice the size of our other house and has a lot of perks too. We really were not looking for a house and a realtor called and said he thought he had a place that was what we needed. So 2 months later we are moving in. I have before and after pictures, but they will have to wait until we are finished, but while you wait let me show you what we will be doing all next summer:

Top 2 Tuesday

2010-09-20T20:27:00.003-05:00

Today on Top 2 is fav hair products.

1. This stuff is amazing. It helps my short hair work into place. If I am going to spike it up or lay it flat, this stuff will do the trick.

2. I use this moose everyday for volume. It smells really good too!

Go link up and see the other amazing products that others are using.

Long Time- No Blog

2010-09-18T19:02:00.005-05:00

Well I know it has been way too long since I have been able to blog. I use to get all over my sister for not blogging consistently, but now I know why! Too busy!

Isn't is the cutest M and M you have ever seen. The fair was in town a couple of weeks ago and we went, only to ride one ride a lot of times. Here it was...

Doesn't she look so happy.

Then we had a birthday party to attend. 1,2,3 jump.

This is Ella. It's her 4th birthday. Tillie was tired of taking pictures.

Finally, if you live in the South you have to love SEC football, so our Saturday's have been full of yelling War Eagle!!!!

Our new look!! :(

Tillies 2nd Birthday-Weekend

2010-08-02T17:46:00.006-05:00

Tillie's birthday came and went way too fast. We thought we had her birthday planned out-go to the zoo, spend the night., but mother nature had other plans. It just so happens that a heat wave came through the south and it was extremely hot on her birthday. So we decided to go for plan B- swimming in the pool and Chuck E Cheese. So here we go. We started our day at the State Park pool. This pool is great because there is a graduated shallow end and the pool doesn't

go passed 4 foot. It great. This is Tillie and Daddy jumping into the hot tub that wasn't hot but ice cold.

We came home and took a little nap.

Then headed out to Huntsville to the germ infested Chuck E Cheese. Yes I came equipped with germ X and wipes. Tillie Ann rode all the rides and some she rode twice. (If you sign up for birthday coupons on their website, you can get some great coupons). She hated the horse. I think that Daddy like it more. She rode some of the big kid rides.

We had our own party with Gigi's princess cupcakes.

Then on Sunday we had her BIG party. It was an Ice Cream Sundae kinda party.

We had it outside. It could have been worse with the heat but there was a breeze.

This little mama was hot.

We had so much fun at home opening an re opening gifts. It was a great weekend!!!

Happy Birthday Tillie Ann!

2010-07-23T08:31:00.007-05:00

You were here.....

Then you were here.....

Last year you were....

And today you are.....

Happy 2nd Birthday Sweetheart!!!

Gone- Deer Got It

2010-07-17T10:43:00.002-05:00

When we were on vacation last week Tillie Ann lost something......... Can you guess?

Who would have ever thought that this would be so hard to get rid of!

Yeah for Tillie Ann! 3 days and counting!

Daddy and Me

2010-07-08T21:07:00.004-05:00

I just love these. Amber Black did these for me. Too sweet I think.

A Post For BB

2010-07-02T09:34:00.005-05:00

Dear BB,

Thanks so much for taking me to the blue slide (AKA Spring Valley Beach). I had so much fun playing with the boy and you. When are we going back? Please bring more Cheetos and grapes this time. See you tomorrow BB at your house.

Love you,

Tillie Ann

For Cohen

2010-07-01T08:54:00.002-05:00

Praying for this family today.......

A Little Bit of it All

2010-06-25T10:05:00.005-05:00

We have been MIA for a couple of weeks so hold on because this is a long post full of pictures and info.......

Tillie loves to play in the dirt and pick flowers. I had bought too many flowers for our new patio and so Tillie was able to plant her own. Before that though she painted her flower pot. This was here 1st experience to paint with real paint. I think she did pretty good. She wasn't too sure about it at 1st but she loves it.

Then on to VBS. This year Tillie was on her own at VBS because I taught a different grade. The theme was "Saddle Ridge Ranch." She had so much fun with the music and the crafts. This is really the 1st time she was able to understand the music and crafts. She is still singing her version of "Say yes to VBS" and "Saddle Ridge Ranch." This is her on awards night.

I just had to add these 2 cuties. This is Rowan and Tucker. Too cute not to add!

Top 2 Tuesday

2010-06-07T22:12:00.005-05:00

Ok so I have taken a break on my top 2 Tuesdays because I couldn't think of anything for the last two weeks of blogging, but his week I am all over it. Many of you probably already know these answers. This weeks top 2 is your favorite book.

#1:

I just finished Karen Kingsbury's Take Three. Oh so wonderful. Here is the synopsis from the book:

Chase Ryan and Keith Ellison set out to change the world with their films-and they are finally seeing their dreams come true. The dedicated producers are deep in negotiations with America's top young movie star to play the lead in their next inspirational production. But the actor is linked to a studio whose brass will take any measures to see that their mega-million-dollar star doesn't take the part. In the meantime, the friends tackle another project that puts them and their assistant, Kendall Adams, on location in Arizona; far from their homes and the people who matter most to them. Chase finds himself on one side of fame-and temptation-with his wife and two daughters on the other. Back in Indiana, a crisis hits Keith's daughter, Andi, and Keith feels helpless to respond. Will the producers keep the passion they had at the start of their film making-and will there be enough passion left over for their families? Or has their quest to change American culture become nothing more than a quest for fame?

SOOOOOOOO good.

#2:

This is the book I am starting to read. It is from Bring The rain blog by Angie Smith. i love her blog so I can just imagine what the book is like.

So hop on over to see what the other gals are reading this summer.

Local Missions

2010-06-05T16:16:00.003-05:00

"Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."

~Philippians 2:4

Yesterday, Buddy and I joined several others form our church and went out to do local missions in our community. All I can say is WOW! Our job was to put on a new roof on a rather small house. Ok, I don't know if you know this or not, but I have never roofed a house before. Have you tried to roof a house with 6 other women and 4 other men, some youth, and one fearless leader? Well try it some time. When we arrived it was overcast (thanks, Lord), and we were ready to go. On our way over to the house I ask Buddy, "have you done this before?" hoping he would say yep, I have and its not that hard. But, he was in the same boat I was. The blind leading the blind. Ok back to the story. We get on the roof and start going at it. All you could see were shingles flying and scrapers scraping.

I am standing there like wow this looks rather easy so, I go at it. 11 hours later we decide to stop with almost all the roof with shingles on it and all the roof felted and one happy family with no leaks.

Felt going done.

Gotta always have a first aide kit on hand.

Our fearless leader.

Praising Jesus for the breeze and the little area of shade.

Yummy, Yummy

2010-06-05T16:11:00.003-05:00

Ok, so I have never posted a recipe before, but this is worthy of posting. My sister submitted this to my mom's church for their cookbook. She can make them much better than I can,but I tried. So try these and let me know what you think.

Chicken Enchiladas

(Cheese puffs do not go into the recipe, they were a quick snack for Tillie.)

Great Day

2010-05-31T22:05:00.004-05:00

Thank you to all who all have served our country so we can have the freedom that we have!

We had a wonderful day! We went down to the campground and spent some much needed Nanny and Papaw time. Tillie Ann hasn't spent time with them in awhile so, today she filled her tank full of Nanny and Papaw. If you live in the South, than you know that all it has done in the last few days is rain. Well, just because it was a holiday doesn't mean that the rain took a break. But, it didn't ruin Tillie's day. She played and played in the rain!

After it finally quit raining, we took her down to the beach to play in the sand and water. She loved it. She just kept saying "Water mommy".

After we played for a while, we went back to feed the deer and a little hammock time with Papaw.

We had a great day and a fun time with the family!!!

Mommy and Me

2010-05-22T09:37:00.005-05:00

About a month ago Tillie Ann and I had a shoot with an amazing photographer ,Amber Black. She captured some wonderful pictures of Tillie and I as well as my mom and grandmother. We were able to get our generations hand picture as well. Here are a few pictures:

It's Sold!!

2010-05-22T09:31:00.004-05:00

I have been wanting to post this forever, but I felt as though I shouldn't. The Sweat's are officially sold. We listed the house at the end of March and had an offer on April 8th. We accepted and signed papers on May 20th. So after so much help from family and friends we are now moved and starting another chapter in a cute townhouse on the lake. Thanks for all your work, Aunt Melinda!

Top Two Tuesday

2010-05-03T18:08:00.004-05:00

This week over at The Undomestic Momma the title of top 2 Tuesday is Splurges.

#1: A good bra.

It seems these days the girls are going farther and farther south so a good supporting bra is such a splurge. This is where I have found great bras for all of us out there that are blessed (not really).

#2: Good running shoes.

Last summer, I started running with a running group and I found out really quick that I needed to get a great pair of shoes. These defiantly were a splurge.

A Very UnWelcome Guest

2010-04-20T20:52:00.005-05:00

What does this man

this animal

and this medicine

have in common?

Answer: A VERY UNWELCOMED GUEST called H1N1.

Yes this visitor is hopefully temporarily visiting our house. Buddy was feeling run down yesterday, so after suggesting many times that he go to his Dr. he finally went today. His diagnosis was the H1N1 virus. After I told him to quit kidding many times, I finally accepted the truth: We had not escaped the piggy flu. So please pray that Tillie Ann doesn't get it. He has been quarantined to a guest house. You wouldn't know that he is even sick, if of course you didn't read this. He doesn't have any major symptoms except a runny nose (I don't know who doesn' t have one of those with all the pollen). So please lift us up. I feel that God is holding Buddy because it is right now such a light case.

So OINK, OINK!!!!! :)

Tuesday Top 2

2010-04-19T21:13:00.004-05:00

Welcome Tuesday!

(Well a few hours early)

This weeks Top 2 Tuesday is my favs under $15. Here they are:

#1:

I have always LOVED cupcakes. Until recently, I was content with your everyday run of the mill Betty Crocker cupcakes. Nope, not anymore. Ladies let me introduce the momma of all cupcakes!!

These are from a local bakery and are oh my goodness oh so good.

This is my favorite

Chocolate cake with Oreo icing and little Oreos on top. Yes, these will blow the Weight Watcher point right off the page but they are worth it. They are $3.00 per cupcake and worth every red cent.

#2:

I hate to have chapped lips and I really hate the sticky feel of lip gloss. So my next less than $15 item is the ordinary Carmex!!!! :) Gotta remain practical if I am going to spend $3 on a cupcake that is just going to make me buy a new size in clothing.

Now, hop on over to Taylor's Blog and link up you cheap favs!

Easter 2010

2010-04-06T21:02:00.005-05:00

WARNING: THIS POST IS REALLY LONG AND FULL OF PICTURES.

We started our day with the Easter Bunny. This year the Easter Bunny was really mean and put the loot up too high for Tillie Ann to reach. (Buddy does not sleep in his clothes, he had just gotten back from sunrise service)

"The Loot"

Too cute not to post!

Totally my child... "NO NO NO Mommy no more"

Loving that sweet face.

Traditional family picture...

Don't know if they have ever taken a family picture that is good. Do I need to remind you of Christmas?????

Sweet cousins....

Isn't he the sweetest little boy.....

I don't have a picture of just me and Tillie that I like.....

Hunting eggs...

Still hunting eggs....

Playing in the pond with Nanny...

We ended the day at Buddy's parents fishing and playing and having a great time. Easter 2010 is in the books and marked as a great day!

Princess Party

2010-04-06T20:50:00.002-05:00

We went to the sweetest party on Saturday. I was a princess party. All the guest were invited to dress up as their favorite princess. Of course we went all out for this party. When the birthday girls mom told me about the party, I found Tillie Ann a play costume at a consignment sale. I wanted to see if she would even put the thing on. Oh my, did she put it on; she never wanted to take it off. Well I happened on the clearance isle in Wal-Mart and found this Sleeping Beauty costume. It was too cheap to pass up. It was a huge hit with Tillie Ann.

While we were getting ready to go, we were talking about what we were going to do. I pulled out this dress and the expression on her face was priceless. I wish I would have had my camera with me to capture this moment.

So we went (Tillie Ann, Daddy and me). There were crowns for all the princesses to wear and the cake was Sleeping Beauty. There was a castle pinata. Tillie took a whack at it but it was Princess Lily who really brought it down.

There even were real fairies there that were spreading fairy dust around. (These are Princess Lily's aunts and grandmother. These ladies made their costumes just for this party).

Princess Tillie Ann and Princess Lily

In the end we all had a great time and I think that we may have a princess party on day too.

Top 2 Tuesday

2010-04-06T20:31:00.005-05:00

Last week I participated in the Top 2 Tuesday and loved it. So, I am welcoming myself back and doing it again. This week is my top two favorite magazines. I don't have a lot of time to read right now, but when I do I grab:

#1: Parents!

I know that this is a little cheesy, but hey they have some really great articles and some really good tip and tricks. Like this past issue I got had an article about sex and kids and how do you fit it in. It was very interesting.

#2: People

I have loved this magazine since I was able to look at them in the dentist office. I love the pictures and the info on the stars. I makes me feel a little part of their lives when I can sit around with my girlfriends and talk about what the latest news about Sandra Bullock and Jesse James. (Ok don't judge you know you do it too.)

Ok so head on over and link up too!

Giveaway

2010-03-31T21:10:00.002-05:00

I have started following this blog and she is hosting this giveaway. Just thought I needed to blog about it because I would like on of these really bad. I like this one.....

I just think it is a neat gift!!!

Top 2 Tuesday: 2 Random Things About Me

2010-03-29T21:16:00.004-05:00

This is my first time to join in on this. I thought it was really cute and I love the blog this came from. So here goes on some randomness.

Top 2 Tuesday

2 Random Things About Me:

#1 Random thing is that I have my alarm clock set for 20 minutes faster than time actually is. I hate to get up and I have have a secret love for the snooze button.

#2 Random is that I love to go back to bed after I eat breakfast. It's just something about being full and sleeping.

Now it is your turn! Go link up and share your randomness.:)

Rain, Rain Go Away

2010-03-25T09:35:00.002-05:00

Rain, rain go away come again some other day.

Tillie and Mommy want to play.

Rain, rain go away.

This is how we feel today. Yesterday was absolutely beautiful. Tillie and I played outside all afternoon long. I worked in the flower beds and she played in the dirt right beside me. The perfect Spring day. Then we wake up to rain and I mean a lot of it. This is truly weather for ducks, not a mommy and a little girl who want to get out and play again. So please rain go away.

HELP

2010-03-24T11:42:00.003-05:00

Tillie Ann had some pictures made last week and I am having trouble deciding which ones to order. I like to many and I don't need that many up in my house. Please help me decide which picture would look good in an 11 X 14. Go to this website and scroll to the bottom and click on her icon. Also, if you like Angela Hills work call her and set up an appointment. She is excellent. (Let her know that I sent you as well) http://angelahillphotography.zenfolio.com/ Thanks for your help.

Sewing Up A Storm

2010-03-19T15:47:00.003-05:00

This week I have really been putting the petal to the wood floor and sewing. Now that Spring is almost here I feel like making things again. I sat down last night and made this dress for Tillie Ann. I think it turned out pretty cute. What do you think?

Loving these little feet. It is time for some polish! :)

Welcome, Miss Addison!

2010-03-19T09:53:00.004-05:00

This week this little one came for her first visit to Granny Ham and Daddy Jack's.

Her name is Miss Addison Paige Tew. Isn't she the sweetest thing. She was introduced to all the noise and commotion of a Hamilton Family gathering. (These can get very loud.) We tried to get pictures of all the "great" grandchildren, but it was almost impossible. This is about as good as I got.

Some how Buddy's had blocked out Jackson.

I love this one of Tillie. She is looking a Jackson like "What in the world are you talking about?" The reason Jackson doesn't have any pants on is that he is now a big boy and learning to go to the potty. Sometimes we all miss and don't make it.

No More Mullet

2010-03-19T09:45:00.005-05:00

On Tuesday, Tillie Ann had her first hair cut. I had already prepared myself for this to be a very traumatic experience for both of us.

But, guess what she proved me wrong. She sat up in my lap and let Meliea cut her hair like she has done that before.

Even though we (Great Aunt Charlotte and I) pumped her full of M &Ms the whole time. But you know whatever works!

I think that she did a great job and NO MORE MULLET! YEA :)

Viral= I don't know

2010-03-12T06:25:00.003-06:00

I saw this acrostic on my friend Kristi's blog one time and it is very fitting to my situation right now.

V-Vicious

I-icky

R-run its course

A-aggravating

L-lasts too long

This pretty much sum's up my last couple of days. I started feeling yucky Tuesday. I had ran with a friend from work after school and as I was leaving my throat started hurting. I just thought it was the cool sir from running and it would go away soon. Well, guess what it is still here and seems to have packed its bags to stay a while. Wednesday morning I got up around 3 am with body aches and chills. Again, I thought I was sore from running. So I got in the bath tub with Epsom salt and thought I would receive some relief. Nope, didn't help. I tried to go back to bed and not disturb Buddy, but that was impossible. Buddy had taken off to stay home with Tillie that day because she had an ear infection. So, I start trying to get ready to go to work and I am struggling. But, I trucked on and made it just a little late. Luckily for me I had a meeting all day and already had a sub because by the time I clocked in and put my things down I was running a 102 fever. So I came back home. Needless to stay things went down hill from there. I have been to the Dr. office to here "it's not the flu or strep, it's just viral. There is nothing we can do for you." Also after a long trip to the hospital because I got dizzy and hit the floor, they still don't know what is wrong. So, I am home for the week with something VIRAL.

and P.S. next week starts Spring Break.

Feels Like Spring

2010-03-12T06:13:00.004-06:00

Last year Tillie Ann got a new swing set for Easter. This is about all she could do: swing, swing, and more swinging.

Well last week was the first time we were able to get out and try the swing set out again and look what this big girl can do now....

She is climbing the ladder all by herself. If you try to help her you get a loud "NO, NO, by meself"

She is growing up way too fast! :(

No Pictures Post- Just a Bunch of Words

2010-03-07T08:07:00.003-06:00

Yep, you read it right. There will be no pictures just words. This weekend where we live has been B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L! We were able to get out and do things on Saturday. We had to make our monthly trip to Sam's. On our way Tillie Ann fell asleep so Buddy took a detour and I was able to go to Marshall's and Ross. I love those stores. You can find so much, but you don't seem to spend anything. I got a dress from Ross for $3.49. I was so excited. Then I was able to go to TJ Maxx as well. But, Tillie woke up for this store. We were able to get new rugs for our bathroom and so decorations to match. When I finally get them up I will take a picture. Then we made it to Sam's. Call me crazy, but I love Sam's as well. I love seeing the new products that they carry. We had to hurry and get back for Buddy to be able to go Auction at a horse sale so I didn't get the time I wanted in there, but there will always be next month. The whole trip was just wonderful. I didn't have to worry about jackets and hats. We could just get out and go! I can't wait for Spring to officially come.

Cowgirl Day

2010-02-25T16:53:00.002-06:00

Today at Tillie's school it was dress up day. This is the first dress up day that we have been able to attend. It was western day. Here is Tillie before we went to school:

This cowgirl doesn't like to ride horses she prefers the 4-wheeler.

Is it Sun or Son

2010-02-15T09:26:00.003-06:00

Tillie loves to sing and dance, but her favorite song is "Oh Mr. Sun". That song has many meanings to me. Yes, it talks about the s-u-n, but I kinda think of it as the Son. The songs says "Oh Mr. Sun please shine down on me." That seems to be a lot of what I pray about here lately is for the Son to shine down and help me through whatever I might be face with. So today as you go through the day just remember this simple children's song and ask the Son to shine down on you or someone else.

Love Day 2010

2010-02-15T08:24:00.006-06:00

My greatest memory of love is creating your cute little white bags with the most beautiful hearts. I would also pick out of my crayon box the pinks, reds, and purples to decorate my bag with. In the end I would have the most decorated bag in the classroom. Then it was time to pass out the Valentines. My mom would always order from "Current" magazine my Valentine checks. I thought they were so cool. So now as each Valentines roll around I do the same thing with my classroom kids and hopefully on day with Tillie Ann. As we were getting ready for her party at school, I was telling Tillie Ann (like she was really listening) about what I did as a little girl. I told her that when she got a little older we would do the same. This was the first time we actually had to do Valentine's cards and treats for school. I have to tell you that it was so much fun and I was probably (well I know that I was) more excited that Tillie. We got her friends at school a treat bag filled with surprises and a silly straw. Well, the day was finally here to go to school and have the big party, but it didn't happen because of the snow. Her school was dismissed early, but they should make the party up on Tuesday. So stay tuned for that. Now on to our Valentine's at home. We woke up and were about to have breakfast and Tillie finally found her valentine. She absolutely loves books, but loves the Little People books the best. I was in Sam's the other night and found these two books that we didn't have so I thought it would be perfect for her. She loved them. The picture below is just for her Aunt Adrian. Adrian loves to see her hair like this. It reminds her of me when I was younger. She calls it the "dust bunny look". Then before church we decided to play nail salon. So Tillie sat so still and watched me paint her nails. She couldn't wait until she see them up close. She showed everyone at church her nails. So I hope that you had a great day and spent time with the ones you love.

A New Found Love

2010-02-10T21:06:00.004-06:00

In school I never liked to read books. I don't know if it was the Accelerated Reader program that I had to do that required me to read so many books from a certain list or what it was, but I really didn't enjoy reading.

But, now I love to read. I get lost in the lives of the characters, like I am a fly on the wall in these people's lives. My favorite author is Karen Kingsbury. She writes Christian Fiction novels. The first book I ever read of hers was A Moment of Weakness. My friend, Kristi, got me hooked on her probably 10 years ago. I have read every book she has written since then. I have also got my mom hooked as well. While I was pregnant with Tillie I was reading, Forever,

and my doctor instructed me to stop reading until I delivered her. In the book that I was reading, one of the main characters baby has anencephaly and dies at birth. Well, Tillie's sonogram picture showed some of her brain tissue and I just knew that Tillie had the same thing as the baby did in the book. So, we (yes, Buddy thought I had lost my mind) took the book and the pictures, that the Dr. had already looked at several times, back and ask if Tillie was OK. And she was of course, but I really get into the books.

I said all of that to say this..... I have a new favorite book and author. The book is

Redeeming Love, by: Francine Rivers. I have read this book before, but I guess the time in my life I really didn't get into it, but I have just finished it and WOW, it is wonderful. I recommend it if you haven't read it before.

I really thought that I couldn't read anything that didn't have Karen's picture on the back of it, but now I know that there are some really good Christian fiction writers out there as well. So now I am off to start a new book... I will let you know how it turns out.

Prayers For Auston

2010-01-22T08:45:00.004-06:00

A colleague/ friend of mine just found out today that her son, Auston, has leukemia. He is in the first grade. Her and her family are in Birmingham at Children's now. Please lift them up in your prayers and grab his button and post it to your blog.

"In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express" (Romans 8:26).

Not So Much the Baby Anymore

2010-01-17T15:42:00.002-06:00

Yep the title is very sad. Tillie is now in a toddler bed. Yesterday, I when I went to run I left the house having a baby laying in her bed. When I returned, I came back to a toddler. Wow, I was, to say the least, a little emotional. This is exactly how parenting is- on day a baby, the next a toddler, the next graduating high school, then college, then married. Too much for me at this moment. Hopefully, there want be any changes like this one fro a while.

Chuck E. Cheese, Here We Come!

2010-01-17T15:30:00.005-06:00

Yesterday, it was rainy outside so we decided to load up and go to a parents worst nightmare- Chuck E. Cheese.

Driving over to the said nightmare, I was thinking about all the germs and bacteria that is probably growing on all the rides and games. I didn't dare tell Buddy about what I was thinking because he would say "Only you would think of this." So I kept my thoughts to myself and said a silent prayer before we got out of the car. Luckily Tillie Ann took a nap on the way over so she was ready to play and of course eat.

Well we order our pizza and set out to play. Tillie's first ride was Barney. I didn't know how she would like mechanical rides, but she loved it. She rode Bob the Builder, who is her favorite character right now.

Then she put on her big girl pants and decided to ride the big jeep. I was not to happy about this (as you can tell).

After two full hours of playing and riding, we left happy and needing Germ-X.

This is Tillie eating her prize- a sucker.

Let It Snow

2010-01-17T15:22:00.004-06:00

It snowed here in our town last week. It was enough for us to dismiss school and stay at home and play.

We took Tillie over to her Pawpaw's to slide down the big hill in the sled. She loved every minute of it and cried because she didn't want to get out. Even her cousin Austin joined in on the fun.

Our first family picture of the new year.

Don't you just love the little feet prints.

Light Pink... What color is yours?

2010-01-07T21:25:00.001-06:00

(post taken from http://www.cancerspot.org – thank you!) Wondering what the meaning of those “Black,” “Blue” and “Pink” Facebook status updates are? I wondered all morning, figured I’d sort it out sooner or later, and then I broke down and did some Google work. Found out the hues represent bra colors. So, like every good Facebooker, I played along by peeking in my shirt and updating my status: Beige. What I turned up on the Internet is that the purpose of this color thing is to simply raise awareness of breast cancer. Not sure how it all got started, but here’s what you should do if you’re a girl (or boy who wears a bra): Look at your bra, note the color and then check those boobies out. Just re-updated my status after my “beige” remark and wrote this: So, while you’re peeking inside your shirt to see what color bra you are wearing so you can post it in your status update, go ahead and feel around in there, make sure there are no lumps. And if there are, call your doc for a clinical exam! Are you game? Hope so. Oh yeah and mine at this moment is light pink!

Enough Said

2010-01-01T21:57:00.002-06:00

Under his eyes tonight was this:

Ephesians 2:8-10 (New International Version) 8For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9not by works, so that no one can boast. 10For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

WOW!!!

Camping in the Mountains

2010-01-01T09:16:00.004-06:00

Over Christmas break we took Tillie Ann camping in the camper in Pigeon Forge, TN. Buddy and I used to before we had Tillie take off to the mountains and go all day long and not come back until late that night. But WOW times have changed. Having Tillie with us we were not able to do that because it was so cold. SO we had to be creative and have fun in the camper. We played games, she rode her 4-wheeler, watched endless episodes of Jungle Junction. When we did try to venture out she was so bundled up she was uncomfortable. Every time we go it is a tradition to go to the Apple Barn restaurant. Yummy, yum. If you have been you know all about the apple julep

and the apple fritters.

Even Tillie took part in the julep. Also, for the first time she sat in a booster seat. She thought she was the biggest girl ever.

Every morning when we woke up, we had our new friends to help us greet the day. Tillie loves to hear the ducks and to look at them.

We had a great time, but didn't make a lot of pictures. Hopefully this spring we can go back and have more fun since it will not be so cold.

Welcome stomach bug I mean Christmas day

2009-12-30T22:48:00.004-06:00

Yep just as the title reads, welcome stomach bug. We woke up around 8:30 on Christmas Day and saw what Santa brought Tillie Ann. Wow, he did such a good job this year. She was so excited to get her new 4-wheeler. Can you tell?

(sorry for the poor quality, I was taking these with my camcorder)

Stylin' in her rain boots and winter wear. :)

Well, after presents were opened and we were getting ready to leave for my grandparents, Buddy exclaimed, "If I don't act myself today, my stomach is really hurting and has been all night."

We arrive at my grandparents and the news hits us. Pop I, Tommy, and Granny Ham have the same issues that Buddy is having. So needless to say it was a quiet Christmas. Oh yeah, might I add that there was a pregnant Holli at the event as well as, germs being carried back to a very pregnant Makenzi who would arrive on Sunday. Before the event's were all over everyone was feeling a little "under the weather." I think we all had a touch of it. Sometimes too much family time is not so good.

But while we were there we ate a little and opened gifts. Granny Ham and Daddy Jack gave Tillie Ann the most precious gift. It was Granny's jewelry box from when she graduated high school. It was filled with jewelry that was old and new for Tillie to play with. I think that this might have been her favorite gift of this Christmas. She carries it around everywhere saying "SEE".

Christmas Eve 2009

2009-12-30T22:08:00.008-06:00

Today was a very busy day. We started the day with brunch with BB and Pop I. Can I say that I was a little disapointed when I heard the menu for this, but WOW BB out did her self this year. She had a spread of yummy treats. Just to name a few sasuage muffins, cinnimon buns that were made in a bunt cake pan, 2 breakfast casseroles, baked ham, and the best cream cheese squares I have ever had in my life. I could have eaten my weight in those things. (Please have brunch again next year mom!!!!) But, due to hectic scheduling BB and Pop I were not able to get their Christmas card made with Jackson and Tillie Ann. So, we took some of them for Happy New Years Cards. Here is one of those outatkes:

Then came present time. Here is a funny video of Tillie and Jackson passing out gifts.

Tillie Ann was used to opening gifts, so this was a breeze for her. She got the cutest Patsy Clairmont book with a puppet that comes with it. Patsy Clairmont is one of the ladies from the Women of Faith conference.

It has 5 stories about the Mackenzie's. They are a family of mice that live in a cabinet in a house. The stories have lessons that the children mice have to learn. Very cute stories. We have only read one, though.

Round 2....... By that I mean that we had another place to be. After leaving BB and Pop I's, headed for The Sweat's. We do Christmas with Buddy's parents on Christmas Eve. Tillie Ann had a huge surprise waiting for her when she arrived.

A new play set. you can only see a little bit of it, but needless to say it got left at their house for the time being.

The energy was still running about 8:30. Way passed her bedtime.....

And finally, back home about to go to sleep. But first, we and to leave Santa his milk, cookies, and note.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JESUS!!

2009-12-30T21:47:00.007-06:00

Happy Birthday to Jesus, Happy Birthday to you!!!!

This year's Happy Birthday Jesus party was very special to me. Tillie actually knew what was somewhat going on. We attempted this last year, but it wasn't as successful as it was this year. Granted she was only 5 months old too. Buddy and I started this because we want Tillie to remember the real reason we celebrate this wonderful season, which is the birth of our Savior. Yes, Santa is also celebrated as well, but this birthday party always comes first.

For Tillie's 1st birthday we got her a kitchen. With that kitchen set, we bought her an apron. That apron got put to use during the making of the cupcakes.

Aren't we so cute in our aprons. We are getting ready to make the cupcakes. We had just explained, as well as we could, why we were doing this to Tillie Ann.

We are mixing the batter and about to put them into the cupcake liners. (If you look hard enough you can see the Betty Crocker box). Sorry Hayley P. I am not the baker that you are. Oh how I strive to be! We have all of this recorded, but I thought I would save you the time of not watching it.

After we iced the cupcakes, we sang and Tillie Ann dived into her cupcake.

"Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:11

Thank you Father for giving us a reason to have a Birthday Party for your Son tonight... Amen.

It Begins....

2009-12-30T21:35:00.007-06:00

I know by the sound of the title what you might be thinking. I am not a Scrooge, I am just saying welcome Christmas gatherings. See there you go. Usally I would be the Scrooge and say yes it begins the rush from here to there on Christmas and not enjoy on minute of it but, NO not this year. I will NOT be the Martha that I could be but instead I AM going to be the Mary.

So with that said..........

We started our first Christmas event with The Coston Christmas. My Dad came up form Florida the Saturday before Christmas to celebrate with us at Granny Lois's. Yes I know that I am a little late posting, but we have been really busy and no time to blog. :) Tillie Ann was really into pulling the bows off the presents instead of opening the gifts, but when she saw that there were actual toys and clothes inside the gifts, she changed her attitude. Her first gift of the season was an Mp3 player for toddlers. Too cool. This is her opening it.

The next gifts she received were clothes. Mommy was more thrilled than she was. Hopefully one day she will grow into the excitement of receiving clothes than this year.

She got bored with opening clothes and went to check out what Jackson has gotten. We ended the night on a happy note and were truly exhausted.

Game Night

2009-12-30T21:19:00.006-06:00

It has become a wonderful Christmas tradition at the Hamilton's to have game night on the eve of Christmas Eve (the 23rd). We come dressed comfy and ready to eat oysters and play games. This year was special because my sister and her family were not able to spend Christmas with us because it is her year to spend it with her in laws. My brother in law, Clint, cooked some yummy wings for those of us who do not do the oysters. The oysters came from my great aunt Charlotte who lives in Dothan. From the looks of some of these pictures some had a little more fun than some. Anyways, it's a great tradition that I is one that is worth keeping.

Pop I, Uncle Clint and Daddy being silly.

The rest of us playing Apples to Apples. If you have never played this game it is so much fun.

Jackson and Tillie Ann playing their game of coloring with Aunt Melinda.

Jackson and Uncle Brian playing with the train.

Do you have family traditions around Christmas time like this?

Alien, Nope Just the Pastor

2009-12-17T19:16:00.007-06:00

Saturday night we had our Sunday School Christmas party. We had a wonderful host with a beautifully decorated house. There was a spread of food that was so yummy. We also played dirty Santa. I love this game, but it didn't get wild like I have seen it in the past. Everyone was pretty laid back and calm. This was also the night that the Heisman Award was given. We were amongst mostly Alabama fans so of course they were rooting for Mark Ingram to win. I really didn't care, but I was wanting Colt McCoy to win due in part that he is a Senior. But back to the real reason of the post. Our pastor is a little crazy some time and doesn't even mean to be. Since he and his wife came to our church he has put on a few pounds. He was trying on a jacket and needless to say, it was too little. Everyone got a big laugh about it. It was a great night of good food and fellowship.

Alien, nope just the pastor.

The yummy spread.

Our host, Leslie, and her newly engaged friend Whitney.

Amy and Greg

Our Pastor Andy and his wife Marylin cheesing for a picture.

Joy

2009-12-17T18:55:00.007-06:00

I was challenged by my blogger friend Kristi to post what brings me joy.

Drawing on my hand by a blooming artist

The Coffee Maker..

Sweet smiling face.

Knowing that it will eventually get done...

Mickey Mouse....

What has brought me joy lately:

Only 1 more day....
No bites
Hearing the heat cut on
Nicole C. Mullen
"Nite, Nite...."
I sode mommy.... (I sorry)
No fevers
No runny nose.
Puggles (last night we asked Tillie "Who made the puppy dogs?" her answer was DOD)

The list could go on and on, but the thing that brings me most joy is a happy, healthy, and wonderful family.

So fellow blogger here the question is to you-- "What brings you JOY?"

SEC Championship

2009-12-05T16:31:00.002-06:00

John 16:33 (New International Version) 33"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." This was the verse that Tim Tebow had on his black eye marks this weekend during the SEC Championship game. It has kinda been a game of mine for the past 12 weeks to see what verses that he has written under his eyes. I feel as though that this one was very appropriate for the time. There have been so many degrading things said about him, but because of his faith in God he is standing firm in his beliefs and not letting the "world" get to him. Why can there not be more role models for children out there in the world that stand firm in their faith?

Christmas Village

2009-11-28T18:20:00.002-06:00

A couple of weeks ago Mom, Granny Ham, and I went to Christmas Village. This is a tradition of mine every year to go to this huge craft show in Birmingham. There are so many vendors that are there every year. I was so excited to go this year especially because of having Tillie Ann. Yes, I know that she was here last year at this time, but she had so many things that I didn't need to buy anything. But, not this year. I got her some cute smocked dresses and several toys. The prices this year were not so bad either. We all found some great buys as well as gifts. Make your plans now to attend next year, you will not regret it.

Christmas Picture

2009-11-28T09:46:00.005-06:00

I love having Tillie's picture made. If you are in my area of the state I use Angela Hill Photography. She is a school teacher by day and a photographer by night (or weekend). I love that she is a teacher because she understands your child so she captures great pictures. Here is one from Tillie's session with her:

Happy Halloween

2009-11-15T08:38:00.003-06:00

(I know that this is a little late, but better now then, never)

Halloween was so much different this year than last year. Last year the Hubby had the stomach virus and Tillie was just coming off of it and I was just trying to hold all of us together while trying to pass out candy. Yes, I still passes out candy.

This year we had to travel all over the county and even into another one. So needless to say no candy was given out at my house.

Here are some pictures of Tillie Ann as Raggedy Ann and me and the Hubby as cows:

We even saw Woody (Jackson).

100th Post: Thank you

2009-11-15T08:34:00.002-06:00

Happy 100th post!!!

Thank you to my sister who got me started on this.

Thank you to my followers.

Most of all thank you to Tillie Ann who has given me a reason to post!!

M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E

2009-10-28T20:14:00.003-05:00

It has always be a tradition of mine to carve pumpkins. I cannot remember not doing it. I hope Tillie finds the love in doing this that I have. This year we decided to carve Mickey Mouse since that is what we are into right now. (That and I couldn't do Bob the Builder. Yes she loves Bob the Builder, another post for another time.) So on Saturday we started the carving...well I did with a tiny bit of help from Tillie and no help from the Hubby.

So here is Mickey...

Tillie helping a little bit.....

Then this is what Tillie did.....

Mickey at night.....

Show Us Your Fall Decor

2009-10-23T08:02:00.006-05:00

This week at Kelly's Korner is show us your Fall decor. I absolutely love fall and decorating. I am a little late on decorating. I really didn't do as much as I would have liked but Tillie Ann is really loving rearranging things right now and most of my things are breakable. So for safety reasons I keep most of the decorations up until next year.

Let's start outside. (It was raining when I took these so excuse the blurry images.)

This tree is actually in my neighbors yard. Our trees haven't got on the changing bandwagon yet.

Pumpkin just dying (literally) to be carved...

Tillie Ann's little pumpkin.....

Fall scene.. (The hubby wouldn't let me put it in the yard. So the next best place)

Welcome to the front door, Come on inside...

My mom gave me this. (Hobby Lobby find)

One of my good friends gave me this for my birthday. She knows how I love fall.

We Heart Fall!!

2009-10-22T20:07:00.003-05:00

Fall is my most favorite time of year. So this year Tillie Ann was big enough to make some cute fall pictures. So this afternoon we put on our sweater and polka dot shoes and went to look for a good place for pose for some quick shots. The trees are so beautiful right now. So what do you think?

"Look Mommy...."

I think that this is one of my favorites.

Or maybe this on??!??!

Love the jeans.

This is one that I was playing with my photo shop with. I thought I did pretty good.

Toomer's Here She Comes

2009-10-14T19:59:00.005-05:00

We recently had some photos taken of Tillie Ann by a local photographer who does wonderful work. Tillie was not excited about getting her picture taken that day so we took her back for another visit on Saturday and here is how they turned out!

(EDIT: There are more but they will not upload today. I will try later.)

Happy 4 Years!!!!!

2009-10-13T19:27:00.006-05:00

Then

Now

October 8th was my darling husband and my 4th anniversary. Yep that is right, 4 years. We celebrated by doing absolutely nothing. This was great because we have been extremely busy. We decided not to purchase any gifts so we could buy one big gift which was Rock Band for the Wii. Well, he didn't stick to the deal because as I was teaching that day, I heard a knock on the door and this is what I found....

An Edible Arrangement. It was absolutely the most perfect gift out there. It is a flower arrangement that you can it. It is healthy and it includes chocolate. Not to mention it was lunch time and I had forgotten my lunch. Yummy!! It was a wonderful anniversary!!

My favorite part!!!

The Sweat's Go To The Farm.. Tate's Farm

2009-10-07T17:09:00.010-05:00

I love fall and all that goes with it. SO this past weekend teacher's got in free at Tate Farms so we took them up on that. Tillie Ann had so much fun, but not as much as I did. She played so hard. She even got her own pumpkin and picked out the family pumpkin. She did a great job might I say.

Tillie in the pumpkin house....

Sorry Uncle Tommy, but I like green.

Love the close up and about to go down the slide..

All you can see in a foot...

Picking a pumpkin.

Cheese..

Big Girl....

Tillie driving the tractor...

Yes Daddy on that. And she did, and did, and did again....

So sleepy and ready to take a nap.

This is Tillie and the goats.....

Sleepy

2009-09-30T13:13:00.002-05:00

Last night I was so tired, I laid my head down for just a minute. I fell asleep and I woke up to find my sweet baby laying beside me. Oh how I treasure these days.....

Yum, Yum Mommy

2009-09-30T13:06:00.002-05:00

Check out what we love now!!!! Looks like a little crow eating a cob.

My Little Puggle

2009-09-30T08:40:00.004-05:00

At church on Wednesday night Tillie goes to Puggles. This is a program that is a part of AWANA. This week Tillie is learning about "God made the trees". It is so amazing to see how much she already knows about God and the Earth that He created.

This is the parent sheet that has activities for us to do through out the week so we can enforce what she is learning on Wednesday's.

This what we read to her.

Color sheet that she is working on. This child loves crayons!! :)

Thank you Lord for such wonderful programs to help Tillie Ann learn more about you!!! :)

Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-30T08:38:00.001-05:00

Bringing her up right.......

Calling Dr. Daddy

2009-09-30T07:24:00.002-05:00

Yesterday while Tillie was playing outside at Mrs. Linda's she got a splinter. I tried my hardest to get it out, but I was not successful. So, when we got home I told Dr. Daddy he would have to get it out. I thought this would be a kicking screaming fit, but it wasn't. She was very calm and let him get a needle and get it out. Way to go Daddy!!

He really didn't use this I promise!!

Please Pray

2009-09-23T10:57:00.002-05:00

As I was catching up on my blogging, I was reading Kelly's Kroner and I read about a family that really needs our prayers. I know that most of you who follow me follow her as well, but just in case you don't here it is. There is a family The Sullivan's, (Brad and Sara) who have been married 5 years. During her pregnancy, Sara found out she had breast cancer and had to have an emergency C-section. The baby was fine and the family was able to come home for a couple of days, but Sara started having seizures. She has now went to be with Jesus. The baby name is Chloe. Please lift this family up in your prayers today. I cannot imagine the feelings that Brad is going through.

Waited For A Long Time

2009-09-21T14:13:00.002-05:00

Since I have been taking Tillie Ann to stay Mrs. Linda, I have longed for her to be able to stand at the window and wave bye-bye. (I know it is a little goofy, but as you already know I am not as normal as most.) My nephew has waved bye-bye to me for a several months and that just seems to make the anticipation grow and grow. Well my time finally came because today was the first time she willfully came to the window and waved bye-bye to me without any prompting. Can you just feel the proud mommy I was as you read this???? I was so happy and reached around to get my camera and guess what was not in the car? You got it, my camera. So hopefully this will continue and I can show you what makes me smile and shed a tear.

New words

2009-09-18T11:07:00.002-05:00

Ok, I don't know if I am ready for this new phase of Tillie's life, but she is starting to say so many words. Here are a few: juse (juice), nos (nose), Mimi (mommy), ye (eye), ou (mouth), hous (house). Too fast is my new word. She is growing too fast. Here is a story for the books. My mom took Tillie to get Auburn pictures made last night because I had an activity to do at school (another story for another time). My child is usually a ham when it comes to picture taking, but not last night. Mom said she just stood there and looked so sad. So I talked to the photographer and we are going back tomorrow. Please say a prayer that we can get through the pictures happy and all smiles.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-16T13:38:00.004-05:00

Thinking back to this time last year....

5K run

2009-09-05T18:41:00.010-05:00

"I can do all things with Christ who gives me strength"

Phillipans 4:13

This was the motto for me today as our running group took part in a 5k run. I never thought that I would be able to achieve this. We started running in June and today was the final challenge. So for those of you out there who say that you could never do this, all I have to say is yes you can. (even in the pouring rain)

The Live Life Running group!

Adrian about to cross the finish line.

Cissy and Allison crossing the finish line!

Mom (BB) crossing the finish line!!

And last but not least, ME crossing the finish line!

New Do and the Start of Football

2009-09-05T18:38:00.004-05:00

Ok, so I went for it and here is the new "do". I took two pictures that I thought were cute of the hair do I wanted and here is the turn out. This is also a picture of Tillie Ann before we went to a high school football game. So what do you think?

HELP!!

2009-08-28T10:14:00.004-05:00

Ok, I so need a change in my hair. I feel that I have had the same old hair for too long now and I need a change.

I had short hair a long time ago and really loved it. This is what I think I want to go for. What do you think? Please leave me a comment on what you think!!

WOW

2009-08-27T18:35:00.003-05:00

Wow! Is only one word to describe the week I have had. I was really bumming out when I was catching up on my blogs and came across a friend that seems to be having the type of week that I have had. Hayley is a friend from work who always see the glass half full, not like me sometimes and see it half empty. She posted a wonderful post the other day and it spoke wonders to me. Now, I am trying to see the glass half full. Please say a small prayer for me to keep my head held high even when I want to go and hid and never come out.

Tonight when I was talking to Tillie (who had to go to the Dr. today for a virus. Another post for another time.) about the rain this afternoon and we were watching the rain make puddles on the deck, we looked up and there was the most beautiful sight I have seen in a while.....

Daddy, What Happened???

2009-08-22T19:15:00.003-05:00

Tonight before we sat down to eat supper, I thought I would get a shower. Tillie Ann was eating her supper so I knew she would be fine with Daddy while I took a few moments for myself. Man was I wrong. i get out of the shower and come into the kitchen to find.......

Tillie looking like this and Daddy doing this.....

Thought It Was Cute

2009-08-22T14:21:00.003-05:00

Here is a picture that I took outside today. We are having beautiful weather here in Alabama. We are really enjoying it! Have a great weekend!

Fixing the Fence

2009-08-22T14:15:00.006-05:00

Well a couple of weeks ago I thought I would have fun mowing the yard on Papaw's new lawnmower (pictured ).

Anyways, I have never driven one of these, but thought how hard could it be? I was doing good until I needed to turn and found myself through of white fence. So today Buddy and his Daddy fixed the fence with a little help from the boss. So now the fence is fixed and nobody has to know what happened.

Too fast

2009-08-17T19:09:00.003-05:00

Today Tillie Ann had her 12 months shots. I think this is one of the hardest times in a child's life is SHOTS! I think that when we go into the office she knows what is going to happen. She is very uncomfortable and winy. Today was no different. After the doctor did her check-up and we were waiting for the nurse with the dreaded needles, I was thinking of how fast Tillie's life has gone by. It seemed like one minute we were worried about her eating enough to now all that is left as far as milestones is talking. Way too fast!! Then to make matters worse, tonight about 7 (her bedtime is 8) she is rubbing her eyes acting like she is sleepy. So I do the normal " Are you ready to go night-night?" Usually it is follow with a shake of her head, "NO". But tonight she got out of my lap and walked to her bedroom and started climbing her crib. I know what you are thinking, I am not crazy for saying this is bad, I am just saying TOOOOO FAST!!!! Then I start reading the blogs that I follow and watched this song on Kelly's Korner. They just grow way too fast! :(

Dancing

2009-08-02T16:19:00.004-05:00

When I watch this video I don't know what to do: cry or laugh. She loves music now and for her birthday we got her a Praise Baby dvd. If you don't know what this is, it is dvd's that sing worship songs for your baby. There are a lot of different kinds but she likes "God of Wonders" the best. This is her dancing to the dvd. I pray that Buddy and I can instill a love for God in her so she will be dancing like this still when she is older.

Polka Dots Everywhere

2009-08-02T15:44:00.010-05:00

I know that I have been absent on here for a little while, but ok I needed a break after the birthday, birthday party, and the worst school starting back! :(

At this time one year ago Tillie Ann arrived and it has been the best gift we have ever received!

Tillie Ann seemed to have a wonderful birthday. Buddy and I celebrated as making through one year with her still alive and well. We started the day off with Tillie opening her gifts from Mommy and Daddy. It was a grow with me kitchen and some extra food. This was so much fun. Then we went to her favorite breakfast place to get her favorite breakfast item: biscuits.

After we went there we came back home for Tillie to play with her new toys. Then we went and celebrated with our friends at Mrs. Linda's. They had so much fun with the icing. That night the grandparents came over for a small celebration. She had her first singing to and blowing out the candle and tons of wonderful gifts. Notice who even showed up to wish Tillie a happy birthday: Daisy. She got a red car and loved to be pushed in it.

Tillie celebrating at Mrs. Linda's.

Jackson enjoying a cupcake at Mrs. Linda's

Eating a cupcake at home.

Daisy even came to the party!

Her little red car!!

On Saturday, was the big party. She had so much fun spending time with family and friends. she would go from person to person. She did care who had her as long as they were paying her some attention. She got so many cute gifts. It felt like Christmas.

Loving on Jackson!!

Birthday girl in her polka dots!

About to eat cake!

Can you tell what her favorite gift was? Look closely at her arms!!!!

Here Comes the Bride- Show us where you live

2009-07-24T08:59:00.005-05:00

The theme at Kelly's Korner this week is wedding dresses. So here it is. (I am not really good at describing it so I won't even try.)

Happy 1st Birthday Tillie Ann

2009-07-22T20:51:00.015-05:00

It started out as....

Then we fell in love with....

And now we are loving every minute that God is blessing us with.....

Happy 1st Birthday Tillie Ann!!! :)

Blog Hop- Recipe

2009-07-21T08:57:00.009-05:00

I am hopping on the blog hop again this week. I have had so much fun reading and finding new blogs. I am from the South and my recipe post is a drink from a wonderful tea room. It is called Town Tea. Hope you enjoy a little taste from the South.

This is the tea at my baby shower at work. YUM!!!

Tea bags for 2 gallons of tea

1 1/2 quarts of boiling water

2 cups of granulated sugar

1(48 ounce) can of pineapple juice

1(12 ounce) can of frozen OJ

1(12 ounce) can of frozen lemonade

Place tea bags in a bowl or pitcher. Pour boiling water over tea bags. Add sugar, stirring to dissolve. Let tea bags steep in sugar water several hours or overnight. Discard tea bags. Add juices, stirring well. Pour equal amounts into 2 one gallon jugs. Add water to each to fill jug. Refrigerate. Shake well before serving. Makes 2 gallons.

Little Diva

2009-07-20T13:31:00.003-05:00

Just in case you get a call from me and nobody says anything this is why. Tillie loves to act like she is talking on the phone. She picks it up and says "O" then she will sit there acting like someone is talking to her. So next time you get a call, it has my name on the caller id, and nobody says anything I am sorry. It's just Tillie Ann the little diva.

Family Reunion

2009-07-20T12:32:00.013-05:00

This past weekend was a weekend full of family activities in lower Alabama that most people have never heard of. It all started on Friday with a great trip to a place called Safford. My grandparents have a farm there and this was the location for one of the reunions. As a child I, didn't like to go to reunions because I didn't see the need. Now that I am adult and have a child I see that these are so important because in the end all you have is your family. Friday afternoon we arrived and we getting unpacked and decided to take Tillie on a ride on the scooter. Tillie has not been on many motorized vehicles so you can imagine how this went. She also met her 1st cow face to face. She didn't really care for it. After we ate, Tillie was playing in the house and I kept hearing her grunt like she was frustrated. So I went to investigate and this is what I found: She thought that this was a ball and couldn't figure out why she couldn't pick it up. On Saturday, was the big event at the house. All the children and grandchildren of my great- grandfather were invited to come and fellowship. Many of them showed up and we visited for a while. Tillie and Jackson played in the pool, on the scooter, and anything else that could take them places. The infamous 4-wheeler made an appearance again, but BB didn't have to push Tillie on it this time. There was too many other things to keep Tillie occupied. After everyone left, some of the men went hunting. Well just 3 of them. Everyone else was too tired. Check out the hunters. My nephew, Jackson, loves big tractors. While we were there he was able to ride a "BIG TRACTOR". This should be the next Massey Ferguson ad. On Sunday we traveled over to a little town called Sweet Water. This is where the traditional reunion is held with the entire family. There was not many in attendance this year, but the ones that were had a great time and a great meal. Overall the weekend was so much fun. We had a wonderful time and can't wait until next year. :)

1st Birthday Gift

2009-07-16T15:41:00.003-05:00

Today Tillie Ann received her first birthday present from Grand "D" and Melody . It is a Vermont Teddy Bear Gram. It is too cute. Tillie is loving giving it kisses and playing with it.

Here she is coming to get it.

Opening it......

Reading the card.....

And here it is!!!!!