A Family of Three

First Trip to Disney World

2012-02-12T15:56:00.006-06:00

We just got back from the Happiest Place on Earth. Yep. It really is. Here are a few of my favorites.

Father Daughter Dance

2012-02-03T19:17:00.004-06:00

Fia was thrilled to get to spend an evening with Billy tonight. I took a couple of them before they left--love the one of him dipping her.

Happy Chinese New Year

2012-01-23T19:53:00.005-06:00

The two kindergarten classes at our school had a fabulous Chinese New Year Celebration. They began with a Dragon Parade and ended with a Chinese Lunch. Fia had a blast--I am so glad I was watching when it was her turn to be under the dragon.

Back Home

2011-12-28T13:29:00.002-06:00

Fia has loved being back home with all of her toys. Thank you, Grandmomma, for the the Bitty Baby pajamas with the matching ones in Fia's size. She loves both!

Christmas

2011-12-28T13:24:00.004-06:00

When we got home from the Nutcracker, the kids sprinkled reindeer food on the lawn and left cookies and milk out for Santa. Christmas morning was a flurry of action! We have never had the four cousins together opening presents all at once. Fia received another American Girl doll, Kit, and the beloved AG backpack she had been hoping for. Grandmomma and Papaw gave the kids cozy hats, among lots of other goodies. It was a wonderful day!

Nutcracker

2011-12-28T13:19:00.005-06:00

On Christmas Eve day, we had the pleasure of attending the Kansas City Ballet's performance of the Nutcracker. We had front row seats, so we didn't miss a single step of Cecilia's breathtaking dance. WOW! We are so proud of her. Fia loved every second, and bringing Cecilia flowers after the show.

Making Cookies

2011-12-21T14:00:00.004-06:00

Fia and I tried Gingerbread cookies, and they turned out pretty huge! So we made the rest into balls and decorated those, too. She is a great helper in the kitchen! **Please note, these were taken before the hair cut she had that afternoon. :)

Nashville Country Christmas

2011-12-11T20:06:00.004-06:00

I took Fia to Nashville this weekend to spend some time with her sweet cousins, and to see the Rockettes in the Christmas Spectacular show. It was fabulous! The kids and adults were very entertained. It was great watching the kids play together and love each other so much.

Gingerbread Girl and Houses

2011-11-28T18:37:00.006-06:00

This Thanksgiving we spent a wonderful week at home doing lots of sleeping, eating, relaxing, and being together. The only pics I took were when we put together the gingerbread houses. Uncle Chris is always a big help in getting the bases down. We couldn't resist decorating our own little gingerbread girl! Yes, she is wearing her Hello Kitty shirt again--she loves it so much. Thank you, Laffeys!! :)

Gobble, Gobble!

2011-11-17T19:08:00.007-06:00

Fia's class had their Thanksgiving program and feast today. She did great as one of the turkeys. We had a fun fall day together!

Tinkerbell

2011-10-31T20:32:00.003-05:00

Fia and I spent a low key Halloween night trick-or-treating around the neighborhood. Billy was out of town, so we decided to skip the block party and get home early. Fia did a great job and loved every second. I let her choose one piece of candy before her bath, and in true Fia fashion, she chose the mini Swedish fish--and lined them up before eating each one. :)

This Halloween Goes Down in History

2011-10-31T20:27:00.002-05:00

This morning Fia had a big surprise for me when I came into her room---she tied her shoes all by herself! She has been getting herself dressed for awhile, but this was a major surprise, especially since I haven't been practicing with her the way I would have liked. Well, my determined little girl did it herself and double-knotted, no less!

Goodbye Soccer

2011-10-31T20:21:00.006-05:00

Fia's last soccer game was this past Sunday. The girls really played well. Fia seemed to have a better handle on what was going on now that she is a little older. This first picture is Billy and Mary Jackson. She looooooooved him. She was supposed to be the goalie, but she couldn't stand to be away from him. Too Funny!!!

Cinderella

2011-10-29T20:29:00.007-05:00

Billy took Fia to the Children's Theater this morning to see Cinderella. Fia had the perfect outfit--a skirt that just happened to have Cinderella on it--Thank you Grandmomma! It was a fun Daddy-Daughter day, and they finished it off with a trip to an old soda fountain-type restaurant for lunch. Much to Fia's delight, they ran into a little girl from her class.

Ready for School

2011-10-29T20:25:00.003-05:00

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-27T18:32:00.005-05:00

We had gorgeous weather for a day at the pumpkin patch with Fia's kindergarten class. Lots of running around and playing in the hay made for a nice nap on the way home!

Picture Day Sweetness

2011-10-04T19:37:00.004-05:00

The Latest

2011-09-27T20:03:00.007-05:00

Here are some pics from the past couple of weeks. This past weekend, we celebrated my birthday and my brother Andrew's birthday in Memphis. It feels great being 25 (ahem)! We saw Lion King 3D with friends, and I took a pic of Fia and Billy at dinner with an awesome view of Birmingham. We are busy and having fun--more pics coming soon!

Soccer Time

2011-09-11T18:37:00.003-05:00

Soccer has started! Fia was thrilled to have Billy coaching again. This time, the team is made up of only girls. They are so cute and hilarious. One girl actually asked Billy to make sure he shaved for next week's game. Ha! They always love the game/play time before the actual game starts. Today it was Duck, Duck, Goose.

Quick Trip

2011-09-05T19:05:00.008-05:00

We made a last minute decision to head over to downtown Atlanta Saturday. We spent that afternoon at the Georgia Aquarium, then woke up Sunday morning, went to Mass, and had lunch at Billy's favorite, The Varsity. The Braves game was in our plan, but it started raining and we headed home. It has rained the entire day here in Alabama. It has made for a lovely lazy Labor Day!

A Couple More

2011-08-12T21:03:00.005-05:00

Today Fia celebrated her birthday at school. I sent in chocolate chip cookies, and her teacher gave her a birthday crown to wear. She kept it on the entire day--recess and all--and that little sweaty head was a mess when we got home! :) We stopped by the store on the way home so she could pick out a balloon and a toy. First thing on her list--a Ken doll. Too funny. The second picture is just another one of her "looks" for school (kitty cat couldn't be left out!). The two of us are having a lot of fun with her uniform and hair accessory options. Tomorrow is the big day! Five!

First Day of Kindergarten

2011-08-10T17:23:00.005-05:00

The big day went very well today. She was so excited--and ready! I can hardly believe it, and I am trying not to think about it too much. Where did my little baby girl go? She loves her teacher, Mrs. Wix, and her little third grade friend, Katie. What a fabulous day! Didn't get one of her asleep in the car...

Gymnastics Birthday Fun

2011-08-08T20:15:00.005-05:00

It's hard to believe that we will have a five year old in a week! We celebrated with friends a little early at our gymnastics place. The kids had a blast and got nice and worn out. She enjoyed every minute of it.

Blueberry Picking

2011-07-29T11:54:00.005-05:00

Fia and her best friends, Margaret and Emma, did a great job picking blueberries yesterday. It was hot, but not too bad with the breeze and a few clouds. We now have enough blueberries to last a looooooooong time!

Fun in Fort Collins, CO

2011-07-21T20:16:00.004-05:00

Fia and I spent a few days with our dear, wonderful friends, the Laffeys. They have a ranch in Fort Collins, and they welcomed us with open arms and lots of love. It was too quick, but we did pack it with lots of memories. The children played so well together. Fia definitely enjoyed herself--and was spoiled every minute by all the attention. We love you, Laffeys! See you soon!

Rocky Mountain National Park

2011-07-21T20:08:00.004-05:00

We had a blast exploring RMNP. Fia, Stephen, Audrey, and Jessie became Junior Rangers for the National Parks. They took an oath to protect America's parks--and looked very cute doing it! We saw some big-horned sheep on the side of the road, and we even spotted a bobcat--which the ranger told us was very, very rare. The kids loved climbing on the rocks and feeling ranger-ish. :)

Fia's First Ride

2011-07-21T19:29:00.007-05:00

Kelly was so sweet to let Fia have a ride on Bonnie very early before we headed to the airport. She was so thrilled and I was proud of her fearlessness! She loved seeing the chickens, too, as well as the baby horse, Freedom. Jessie and Audrey let her borrow a pair of their cowboy boots--and then let her keep them! A very sassy Fia proudly wore them all the way home.

Welcome to the 60's

2011-07-16T19:48:00.006-05:00

We had a great afternoon (and had another opportunity to wear our matching dresses)--finally seeing Hairspray! Weeks of singing in the car, watching (and explaining) the movie--Fia was so thrilled to see her favorite characters: Link, Tracy, Penny, and Seaweed on stage. We were very impressed with Birmingham local theater. The cast was amazing. We waited after the show, and Fia literally ran into Penny's arms (she was the first one out). It would have been even more awesome if they had stayed in costume, but Fia was still tickled to meet them. They were just smitten with her, too. Seaweed told her, "You made my day!" Link must have snuck out a different exit to escape his adoring fans...

First Assignment for School

2011-07-12T13:24:00.003-05:00

Fia has "real" school work this summer--to complete five book reports to share during the first week of kindergarten. It sounded like a bit much to me, but Fia is so eager, we are going to knock these out in no time. I am so proud of this little Mayan Genius baby. :)

Rolling on the River

2011-07-09T16:23:00.008-05:00

We had a fantastic visit this past week in Memphis. A highlight was going to Mud Island and strolling the Riverwalk. As you can see, there wasn't much "river" in the Riverwalk! But Fia had a blast--even when it started raining, she loved getting a lift from Uncle Chris. *** My camera lens is acting funny, sorry for any blurriness!

Happy Birthday, Grandmomma!

2011-07-09T16:13:00.004-05:00

We had a great time visiting with you in Memphis. Fia especially loved having more of your birthday strawberry cake for breakfast this morning before we left. She woke up from her nap and immediately wanted to dress her Bitty Baby and American Girl Doll in the clothes you gave them. Thank you for loving us the way you do! See you soon!

Blondes have more Fun

2011-06-28T13:13:00.004-05:00

We bought this Rapunzel "wig" the other day, and Fia puts it on whenever we are home and she is playing--which is most of the time. She combines it with endless assortments of dresses and accessories. My favorite was today with the bunny rabbit cape. Me: Where are you going? Fia: To the dark, dark, woods to escape Mother Gothel. Good thing she has her ballet slippers to make it through the dangers of the forest...

June Fun

2011-06-24T23:12:00.008-05:00

These are just a few randoms from the past week: (1)Fia after gymnastics-she loves her pink ballet leotard (forgive the watermelon stain from lunch), wearing bunny ears and blowing a kiss. She loves those bunny ears now that she understands that we flew to Guatemala to pick her up on Easter Sunday. We took those ears with us for a cute picture, but of course--she would have none of it then! (2 & 3)We have had lots of rainy afternoons lately. I saw her in her playroom looking out the window, waiting for the sun to come out. You can see how she had set up a tea party on the window sill for herself and her baby. (4) We went to Margaret's birthday party tonight. They came dressed in pajamas and listened to a storyteller. They had milk and cookies afterwards. It was a great idea for a party.

Father's Day Weekend

2011-06-18T13:06:00.004-05:00

This weekend has gotten off to a great start. Last night after it rained, we sat on the front porch with freezer pops and blew some bubbles. It was so pleasant with almost no humidity! And doesn't everybody require satin pumps and a tiara when having an outdoor treat? :) Today we went to Publix to decorate a cookie cake for Billy. She was so excited, we had to give it to him as soon as we got home.
Happy Father's Day to the man who shows our little girl every day what it means to love.

Pool Fun

2011-06-13T13:31:00.003-05:00

Fia had a super fun-filled week in Kansas City. When I went to pick her up, I took some pictures of the kids at the pool and that was about it. We are back home now and lots going on--VBS, gymnastics, and swimming lessons. More photos coming soon!

Kansas City, here she comes

2011-05-31T20:34:00.002-05:00

Monday morning brought lots of joy for little Fia--she couldn't wait to get in the car with her cousins. We are so blessed to have family who will just whisk away our little girl for us and give us some alone time! ;) Billy and I are making the most of it this week and heading to Mexico. We are certainly glad that Fia won't even miss us for a second.

Memorial Day Weekend

2011-05-31T20:26:00.007-05:00

We spent a very special weekend in Memphis, celebrating my parents' 50th anniversary. For the first time in seven years, we had family pictures taken. I took a few as well, mostly focusing on Fia and the kids. :) I love this first one with my brother Andrew peeking out from behind.

Preschool Graduation

2011-05-19T13:39:00.006-05:00

This morning Fia graduated from preschool. Where did this year go? It seems like yesterday that I was walking her into class on the first day of school. All of the kids did a great job singing and accepting their diplomas. We went to lunch afterwards and came home to have key lime pie for the graduation and Billy's birthday. The weather is gorgeous, and it couldn't be a more perfect day for celebrating. :) By the way, the next to last pose is her favorite "move" lately--it's Kiki from the Fresh Beat Band.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-06T16:01:00.001-05:00

We love you and miss you!
xoxoxoxoxo
Carrie and Mary Sofia

Mommy and Me Picnic

2011-05-06T15:45:00.004-05:00

Today was so much fun. Fia and her class sang some sweet songs and recited two precious poems for us. Then, we all enjoyed a picnic lunch. Mrs. Judy surprised us with these cute black and white pictures. Fia sure does know a lot about me--I do love sweet potatoes, and I really love being 17 years old! :)

May Crowning

2011-05-05T08:23:00.002-05:00

Preschool students held the May Crowning ceremony yesterday morning. It was supposed to be outside, but considering it was about 45 degrees, everything was moved into the gym. Fia was proud to carry her bouquet of mini yellow roses. Her friend, Olivia, crowned Mary. More pictures to come--tomorrow is the Mommy and Me picnic!

Happy Easter

2011-04-25T08:15:00.005-05:00

It was a fabulous cousin-filled Easter weekend. The Rayfields came down for a visit. Fia, James, and Nate were inseparable. Baby Caroline was so sweet, always wanting to get in the action. The first picture is from the neighborhood egg hunt--Fia's friend Margaret joined in the fun. I had to include the picure of the kids in the creek beside our driveway. It never occured to me to let Fia near it---but those three had hours of fun building a bridge. We enjoyed every minute of time we had with them.

Spring Picture Day

2011-04-16T07:55:00.007-05:00

Thursday was spring picture day at school. Fia was very proud to wear her cute pink polo that Billy brought back from the Masters. I wasn't able to capture our azaleas in their full glory, guess I can try again next spring! I took a picture of her in my classroom. She is doing fourth grade math! What a genius. :)

Spring Program

2011-03-31T20:51:00.008-05:00

The threes and fours had a program today entitled Patriotic Preschoolers. They were so cute singing God Bless America and Yankee Doodle. We also went back to the classroom to view their artwork. I loved Fia's self portraits--one she drew in October and one in March. The most hilarious is our family portrait. I'd love to have it psychoanalyzed. Clearly, Daddy is the buddy, and I am the etherial figure that just hovers. Haha!

A Day in the Life

2011-03-31T20:47:00.002-05:00

This was Fia yesterday afternoon. She comes home from school and immediately puts on her must-haves---heels, Valentine's Day socks, heart necklace, wand, and now a cape. She was so proud that she tied it herself! She is really into tying lately...really wants to tie her shoes. Our baby is growing up!

Forever Family Day

2011-03-27T20:18:00.008-05:00

Three years ago today, we brought our wonder baby home. What a thrill she has been each and every day. Thank you, God, for blessing us over and over again. Fia wanted to make snickerdoodle muffin cookies to celebrate, and she chose (gasp!) a Lunchable to have for dinner. Haha! I guess I shouldn't have told her she could have anything she would like. I didn't even realize she knew those things existed! Please excuse the obligatory family photos---Billy and I were grubby from a painting project.:) Thank you to all of our friends and family for the prayers that brought her home!

A Visit from Baby Andrew

2011-03-27T20:09:00.001-05:00

This weekend my dear friend Jessica and her sweet baby Andrew came for a visit. Fia really enjoyed having a little baby around, and he was just a dream come true. Of course, we don't have a single pic of the two kids together, or one of me and Jessica. We will have to make up for it when they visit again in a couple of weeks.

A Glorious Morning

2011-03-19T14:33:00.002-05:00

The Botanic Gardens did not diasppoint! We had fun walking around and literally stopping to smell the flowers. We also enjoyed a tasty ladies' lunch on the patio of the Garden Cafe.

Mom's Pics

2011-03-18T21:49:00.005-05:00

Mom was so amazing to stay with Fia for a couple of days so Billy and I could have a little getaway to Point Clear. They had a blast together--and Mom took some cute pictures, too. We are headed to the Botanic Gardens tomorrow so stay tuned for more fun pictures. It has finally warmed up around here.

Spring Break

2011-03-18T21:25:00.007-05:00

It has been a fabulous week so far! It started last weekend with a trip to Franklin for Caroline's first birthday party. On the way home, Mom, Fia, and I stopped in Hanceville at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament. It was breathtakingly beautiful!

Sweetie Pie

2011-02-28T17:22:00.004-06:00

These are just some pics from the weekend: posing before she went to a birthday party, and then showing off her exercise moves. :)

Matthew and Mia come to visit

2011-02-20T19:38:00.004-06:00

Fia was so excited to have our friends from Nashville come to visit. They were so cute playing together and exploring the Botanical Gardens. The first picture is Fia with her "present" for them. :)She wrapped up some of her playroom toys.

Superfun Superbowl Weekend

2011-02-07T13:10:00.003-06:00

We spent a great weekend at home for Dad's birthday/Superbowl party. Fia loved drawing the numbers for the squares, and helping Papaw blow out his candle. She is holding up a "Hugh-per Bowl" pool that Aunt Beka made. Hilarious! It was a fantastic party!

Backyard Fun

2011-01-30T16:59:00.002-06:00

It was great weather for playing outside this weekend. Fia found some deer tracks and had fun with Daddy.

Fia Faces

2011-01-30T16:56:00.002-06:00

The Cleaning Fairy

2011-01-12T21:48:00.005-06:00

We had two days at home due to winter weather, and this is the only picture I took. We really did not get any snow accumulation, only ice. So we stayed inside and played games, colored, worked puzzles, and dressed and undressed dolls. I took this when Fia was helping me dust. We both had our pajamas on still (part of the fun!), and she insisted on wearing fairy wings most of the day as well. Actually, I just noticed this is a rare moment she is without her hot pink high heels. :)

Fun Slippers

2011-01-05T17:50:00.003-06:00

One of my students went to Orlando over Christmas break, and she surprised Fia with these slippers she got at Seuss Landing. Fia LOVES them and puts them on the minute she gets out of the tub. They are the characters Thing 1 and Thing 2, but Fia keeps getting them mixed up and calls them Number 1 and Number 2. :)

Happy New Year!

Home for Christmas

2010-12-29T20:15:00.009-06:00

We all shared another memorable Memphis Christmas. Thank you, Mom and Dad, for always going above and beyond! We miss you already! Tomorrow the Zanones come to Birmingham for New Year's fun!

Silly in stockings (mine and my brother's)

Making molasses cookies with Grandmomma

Leaving cookies for Santa--notice the Elf is on the tree, ready to picked up :)Kelly--the gown still fits and she still loves it! :)

A Christmas morning tradition: lining up her Hershey's Kisses

Yay! Santa came through with my American Girl Doll!

She got a tent, too!

Doing some Christmas morning chores :)

A visit with new cousin, Baby Charlie (His mom is my cousin, Mary Jennifer)

Roll Tide!

Cousin Fun: Nutcracker

2010-12-21T20:49:00.002-06:00

This past weekend we were in Kansas City having holiday fun. We saw the Nutcracker, built gingerbread houses, sang Christmas carols, saw lights, visited Santa, ate treats, and enjoyed being together as much as we could! Watching Cecilia dance in the Nutcracker was such a delight. She was breathtakingly graceful and beautiful. Fia was captivated from beginning to end.

Taking pictures before the show

That's my beautiful cousin, Cecilia!

Wow! These front row seats are amazing!

Cousin Fun: Bass Pro Santa

2010-12-21T20:47:00.003-06:00

Cousin Fun: Gingerbread Houses

2010-12-21T20:43:00.003-06:00

Tea and Santa

2010-12-13T12:25:00.004-06:00

Last weekend we made a quick trip to Memphis for a friend's wedding. We also went to a Christmas tea with my mother and some of her friends. By total coincidence, we saw our dear friend, Kara, and her daughter Kathryn Ann. The girls were thrilled to have a playmate there. A visit from Santa made the tea even more special. Fia asked for an American Girl doll, but it comes out as "A Miracle Doll." :)
Thank you so much, Kara, for taking these cute pictures!

Tree Trimmin'

2010-11-29T20:05:00.013-06:00

We had a house full for Thanksgiving weekend. It was so much fun having everyone here! Fia was overjoyed, waking up each morning and asking, "Is everyone still here?" We played games, ate lots of yummy food, watched Auburn/Alabama, went to see Tangled (very cute), and shopped! Saturday evening we put up the tree---one very tired girl couldn't stay up that late. She was happy to put on a couple of Dora ornaments the following morning. Thank you, Dom and Isabella, for being little elves! See you soon!

The Cutest Pilgrim

2010-11-18T19:25:00.007-06:00

The preschool Thanksgiving program was this morning. They were so cute! The four-year olds were Pilgrims and the three-year olds were the Native Americans. They were so cute--and the singing was priceless.

Pilgrims on parade

Belting it out

With her turkey

Pilgrim Pose

Big Smile for muffins and juice when it was over

Goodbye Soccer

2010-11-07T19:06:00.003-06:00

Fia played her final soccer game today. It was chilly, but the kids had a great time. We're all finished until the spring season!

Helping Daddy with the cones before the game

Playing Duck Duck Goose to warm up for the game

Proud to have her medal

Halloween

2010-11-01T18:41:00.006-05:00

We had a blast trick-or-treating with the neighborhood families. We all gathered in the driveway across the street and brought food and drinks to share. The kids ran around and played until time to hit the streets. Fia and the two kids across the street, Lea and Noah, were attached at the hip. They were so cute walking together and holding hands. Lea went as Shirley Temple, and Fia was Snow White. I was amazed that she wore the crown and necklace the entire time! She also carried the apple purse. The girl loves her accessories--remember how she kept those glasses on when she was Elvis two years ago?

Snow White without her crown

With the crown

Lea, Fia, and Noah--and the Boogie Man!

Back home with her loot---who passed out the full size chocolate biscotti??!

Fall Fun Day

2010-10-27T18:58:00.007-05:00

The three classes of four-year olds had a morning of fall festivities. The kids rotated between listening to a Halloween story, playing Halloween bingo, and turning a plain sugar cookie into a jack-o-lantern. I was the mom volunteer for Fia's class. It was fun getting to work with each group. I was also able to stay for a few minutes of circle time, and I think Fia enjoyed that more than anything. She was pretty adamant about wanting two pig tails today--not exactly the best style for her little cute cut. :) I love the last one of her--She looks completely worn out! Icing on her shirt and lips, hair falling down, tired little smile. Too funny.

Fun at the Farm

2010-10-21T13:45:00.009-05:00

We had a wonderful day today on the field trip to the farm! Fia learned so much about life in the 1890's and early 1900's. I was impressed with all that the kids were able to do at this place! It was fun seeing her with her little friends, too. The best of all was the fabulous weather.

Happy to see Amber when we got there

Fia's class with Mrs. Judy

Cute girls

Feeding the sheep

Patiently listening at "Horse School"

Approaching the pony

A little nervous (check out the clinched fist), but she did it!

Waiting in line with her corn

I thought this was hilarious

Shucking the corn

Pumping water

Using a washboard

Running to the old school house

Learning about school in the old days---You can see Emma wrote Fia's name

Emma and Fia wanted front row seats for the hayride

Goodbye! It was fun!

Cutie Pie

2010-10-09T20:44:00.003-05:00

Bears on Parade

2010-09-22T17:50:00.005-05:00

A highlight of "B Week" is the Bear Parade that the 4 year olds have every fall. Fia was so excited to bring Benny. I was so excited to be here at school with her, so I wouldn't miss a thing!

Soccer Time

2010-09-19T19:38:00.008-05:00

Fia had her first soccer practice/game today. She loved it! Billy was a great coach, too. There are six kids on her team--a good mix of three and four year olds. The kids did well, especially considering the 97 degree heat!

Soccer Girl

With Mommy before the heat set in

Meeting the team

Watch her go!

Fia's out front!

Here comes the red team--watch the kid on the left

So close!

Labor Day in Kansas City

2010-09-06T19:18:00.008-05:00

This weekend was jampacked wtih fun. Fia was overjoyed to have time with her sweet cousins. We went to the Kansas City Feis where we watched Isabella dance her way to first place in the horn pipe! Another highlight was going to the grand opening of the American Girl store. Fia was thrilled to pick out a new outfit for her Bitty Baby. We all had fun jumping on the trampoline, visiting with Grandmamma and Papaw and Chris and Dee Dee (who also came up for the weekend), eating lots of delicious food, and seeing the now famous "hammies"-- the three cute hamsters that are the newest members of their family. :) We loved every minute of it!

First Day of Preschool

2010-09-01T16:43:00.002-05:00

We have been counting down the days until Fia started her 4K class. Finally, today came! She bee-boppped down the hall to her classroom and said a loud "Good Morning!" to her teacher. It was a wonderful day. It was topped off by coming home to a box of clothes from her cousin, Hailey--including a gorgeous Tinkerbell costume that she had to put on immediately. Thank you, Hailey!

All the kids have the same cute bag (note: I did not write her name on it--the OCD in me would have picked white paint pen--lol!)

Fia loves Mrs. Judy

Waiting with some of her new friends

Mommy looks a wee bit too excited!

Hello Kitty Steppers

2010-08-15T13:23:00.004-05:00

Yesterday, a package came for Fia from Uncle Chris and Aunt Dee Dee. She was very surprised, since she already had opened her birthday gift from them when we were in Memphis. There were three sets of Hello Kitty toys that step dance when you hook them all together. It is actually pretty entertaining. Fia loves them! Thank you!

Happy, Happy Birthday !

2010-08-13T19:30:00.010-05:00

Today was the big 4 for our girl! We had a family dinner (with Grandmamma as a surprise guest!) and Fia opened the cards and presents that came in the mail from friends and family. She woke up and told me: "Mommy, look at my arms! Look at my legs!" LOL--like she would have grown so much overnight. :) She is proud to be four.

Good Morning, World! I love being FOUR!

I love my unicorn card and fun stickers. Thank you, Annie! I miss you!

Cards from Meemaw and Billy's brother, Chris

Thank you, AJ, for my card and picture of the two of us!

I love my Dora and Boots. They have joined Kitty Cat and Polar Bear in bed with me for nighty-night. Thank you, Laffeys!

This is such a cute purse--just what I need! :)

WOW! There was a DS in there from Cecilia, Isabella, and Dominic! Thank you, Zanones!

A Visit from Fabulous Friends

2010-07-30T09:05:00.008-05:00

My dear friends, McKenzie and Danielle, and their precious boys, Nathaniel, AJ, and Jacob came for a visit this week. We had so much fun catching up while the kids played great together. Fia was overjoyed to have friends visit--"Mommy, will they sleepover?! Yay!" A highlight was going to the McWane Science Center. My camera was acting funny, so I was not able to get some of the pictures I wanted. So frustrating! We had a wonderful time, and we all decided that it is a tradition that will continue.

Nathaniel and sweet baby Jacob

Nathaniel going in for the "pinky hair stroke" while still managing to keep his thumb in his mouth. So cute and hilarious! Glad I got this one. ;)

Posing with AJ, the pilot

Serious look from the window :)

Making bubbles

Fun at the water table

Birthday Princess

2010-07-26T08:38:00.007-05:00

We made a quick weekend visit to Memphis to celebrate Fia's fourth birthday with family. She was absolutely thrilled with every detail: her princess dress, Ariel cake, and fabulous cousins and family friends who came to play. The big four is in a couple of weeks, so round two will be in Birmingham. These first pics are from the trip to the Peabody to see the famous ducks!

Soccer Girl

2010-07-11T12:02:00.009-05:00

We are fortunate to have a big, empty basement that is nice and cool. What better way to use it than to practice Fia's soccer skills? Well, this was her daddy's idea, and it worked great. She is still down there having a blast. She will be old enough to sign up for fall soccer, and I think we will try it.

Hmmm...I like this part--posing with the ball!

Practicing her dribble

Making a run for the goal...

She shoots...

She scores!!

Happy Fourth

2010-07-05T17:29:00.006-05:00

We had so much fun being tourists in Birmingham when my brother, Chris, and his wife, Linda, came for a weekend visit with my parents. One highlight was a trip to the Vulcan Museum. The Vulcan is a statue built in 1904 for the World's Fair in St. Louis. It was built to show Birmingham's strength as a city rooted in the iron and steel industry. Birmingham grew so fast, it earned the nickname "Magic City." That's your history lesson for the day! We are so thankful that we had such fun and easy guests. We didn't stay awake for the fireworks on Red Mountain...maybe next year!

At the museum entrance, a wall to represent Birmingham's steel industry

Standing next to the replica of the Vulcan's foot

Look how big that toe is!!!

Fia and Grandmamma on the windy observation deck

Billy and Aunt Dee Dee

Fia with my Mom and Dad

Fia with Uncle Chris

Full view of the Vulcan statue

Any Dream Will Do

2010-06-28T17:55:00.006-05:00

Fia's dream of seeing the "real" Joseph on stage came true when we went to see the show while we were in Memphis. After the show, she met the actors who played Joseph and the Pharaoh. She was so proud! I loved seeing her so happy. She was just picture perfect with her new summer dress and curly hair.

First Movie

2010-06-28T17:53:00.000-05:00

Had to document Fia's first movie in a movie theater. She loved it and didn't move a muscle!

Fun in the Sprinkler

2010-06-28T17:45:00.007-05:00

Fia LOVED being at Grandmamma's and Papaw's house, but her favorite part was being outside in the backyard, running through the "prinkler," as she calls it. I had fun playing with the color on these shots.

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-28T17:41:00.006-05:00

This is a little bit late...but Happy Father's Day, Billy! You are the best daddy in the whole world! Happy Father's Day to my dad, too! You are also the greatest father ever! :) This is Fia the morning of Father's Day. We decided to "help" Billy before we drove up to Memphis for the week. She actually did a great job pushing the leaves down the walkway.

Family Fun

2010-06-16T14:21:00.003-05:00

More family fun was had this past weekend as we celebrated Caroline's Baptism. We were able to see lots of faces that we hadn't seen in a long while. Caroline and all the cousins were just so cute together. The zip line made being outside in the heat more fun!

Cousins

2010-06-08T14:49:00.007-05:00

These are some great pictures taken in Kansas City at my sister's house. We are here and having a blast!

Memorial Day Weekend

2010-05-31T20:46:00.007-05:00

We spent a great weekend in Memphis. Isabella competed in the Memphis Feis, and we loved spending time with the Zanones. Fia went home with them today--and we won't see her again until Sunday! She is going to have so much fun with her cousins!

Isabella danced wonderfully! We're proud of you!

This is how Fia would walk with Dominic. Notice how she is even holding the hand that he has wrapped around her neck!

In the car, on the way to Kansas City!

Last Day at the Beach

2010-05-23T06:15:00.004-05:00

More beach...

2010-05-20T20:47:00.003-05:00

Beach: Day One

2010-05-20T12:47:00.006-05:00

Lucky for us, Billy had a conference in Destin, and Fia and I were able to tag along. We hit the beach right after breakfast, and Fia was in heaven! We had so much fun collecting sea shells, and taking a long stroll on the beach. She loves digging in the sand, and making sand "cupcakes." We also had fun at the pool before lunch. Needless to say, she passed out as soon as her head hit the pillow. Billy will be finished when she wakes up--I think I'll let him take over for round two!

Spring Art Show

2010-05-14T20:33:00.006-05:00

Fia was proud to display her artwork in the school's art show today. She and her classmates have been working hard! :) We decided to change it up a bit and take some pictures on the front porch. I really like the circus train one and the self-portrait. Of course, we had to get some posing in!

Fun in Nashville

2010-04-26T19:01:00.005-05:00

We were so excited to finally meet precious baby Caroline, and to celebrate Nate's birthday this past weekend. Fia was a pro at the zip line, and we all had fun watching the kids zoom by in the backyard. Going to Nashville is always such a fun and easy getaway.

Azaleas

2010-04-17T11:35:00.010-05:00

Our azaleas are finally in bloom and I was so excited to take some pictures in our front yard. The neighborhood is picture perfect right now--so we are making the most of being outside. Fia wasn't really in the mood--but she was a good sport. Hope everyone is having a great weekend!

Quentin comes to Visit

2010-04-11T20:42:00.008-05:00

My dear friend, Jessica, and her hubby, Lance, came to town for a family visit--and we were so excited to get to see them! The highlight for Fia was getting to catch up with her buddy, Quentin (Jessica's sweet nephew). We spent the morning at the Botanic Gardens. The kids loved it, and ran and ran, and ran! We took Fia for a haircut this afternoon---short bob again. We are planning on taking her back to the Botanic Gardens for a photo shoot---so stay tuned!

Pretending to be turtles, sunning themselves :)

Erica and Jessica--lovely ladies!

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T13:29:00.007-05:00

We are enjoying the sunshine today and spending time together as a family. We hope everyone has a blessed and happy Easter!

Starting the weekend with a Barbie marshmallow sucker (a treat from one of my students--Thank you, Isabella!)

Checking out her Peeps---or as she calls them, "Pips"-- It's so cute!

Can't have Easter without a chocolate bunny!

Matching Mommy and Me dresses

Full view of our matching dresses---pardon my pale legs!!

Easter Egg Hunt

2010-03-29T19:14:00.003-05:00

Fia had a great time at the Easter Egg Hunt at a nearby park this weekend. We got there early, so she had plenty of time on the moon bounce and merry-go-round before hunting for eggs and getting her picture made with the "Easter Bunny Rabbit," as Fia calls him.

Forever Family Day

2010-03-29T19:05:00.006-05:00

We had a wonderful visit with Grandmamma and we celebrated Forever Family Day #2. Fia loves hearing the story of her adoption, and she loves telling it, too! We are so blessed to be her parents. We have such amazing memories of landing in Memphis, and seeing the faces of those we love. Thank you to everyone for your love and prayers that brought our baby home to us.

Thank you for coming to celebrate with us, Grandmamma!

Helping Mommy make the cookie cake

Happy Family

Family Time

2010-03-21T13:12:00.012-05:00

The sun came out and we took advantage of it while we were in Memphis. A family trip to the zoo was in order, and Fia had a blast. We are already ready to go back for our summer visit!

Near the zoo entrance

With Grandmamma and Dee Dee

Uncle Chris giving Fia a lift

Peek a boo!

Look at the giraffes!

Fia loves her Grandmamma!

Lunch at El Porton

Fun with Friends

2010-03-21T13:04:00.008-05:00

There's nothing like spending warm spring days with good buddies!

Fia and Noah

Pucker up, Fia!

Fia and Annie

Say "cheese," girls!

All dressed up in A.J.'s kitchen

Fia and A.J.

Peter Pan

2010-03-08T19:03:00.002-06:00

We went to see a ballet production of Peter Pan last weekend. One of my students was in it, and we were so excited to see her perform. Fia was absolutely riveted the entire time. There weren't even words--just music and dancing! She met Tinkerbell and Peter Pan after the show. We are so glad to know that she can "last" through these kinds of things. She is growing up!

Fia Fun

2010-03-03T14:31:00.004-06:00

This is how I found her in her playroom. She was having a tea party with friends. The muffins had just come out of her oven, and she was taking them out, to give to our neighbor (Ms. Betty next door). I just love her!