Fun's Comin!

Today

2012-01-19T13:32:00.001-08:00

I have great intentions of blogging at some point about our summer, but for now...since it's been for e ver and you've probably stopped checking and have forgotten what we look like...here's a reminder.

Summer Part 2

2012-01-10T11:58:00.000-08:00

Even in the winter, our boys rarely have clothes on. Summer, they are completely unnecessary.

Caden is a very serious boy.

Caden has loved the guitar from the time he could hold one. We love to be serenaded by him.

Adam and I were also able to go to Haiti with the Hillsboro Church in Nashville. My parents and our good friends Luke and Katie were able to go also, and, as always, I'm pretty sure we were the recipients of the blessings.

This is at the Cap Haitian Children's Home, and we're with our good buddy Mackendy.

Slappy and Cookie were very stylish. All the time.

The whole group

The group watching the whole group

This was the site for our first dental clinic. Very high-tech chairs we had.

My dad's brother, Uncle Sandy, came and was a WONDERFUL help for Adam and the people

Several sewing machines were donated to the CHCH and the kids got lessons and even sold some things while we were there. They're so smart and talented.

Summer, Part 1

2012-01-10T11:48:00.000-08:00

This summer we spent a lot of time at camp visiting Uncle Ty, Aunt Nell, and Drayton. Sometimes other buddies came to play too!

Tater learned to walk....

Caden hunted for buried treasures...

And Tate perfected his meditation pose. Very impressive.

We also had a big boy turn 3 in our house. He doesn't get many sweets around here...and I use the term "sweets" to mean things like apple sauce and straight cocoa powder in milk for an extra treat...so the healthy chocolate cake was so so so tempting. Sometimes taking a good sniff is as good as a taste.

You might think he's blowing candles out...but he's actually trying out a magic trick where you light the candles by blowing. Didn't work.

Good friend Nora brought her bounce house and it was a hit.

Caden loves him some Paw Paw

The kids table. ;)

It is because of this look....that this coming year you will see the institution of the "birthday mask". Wait for it. It'll be worth it.

Back at camp!

I love a good, dirt-streaked run in the grass. Don't you?

Tate says the jury is still out.

And.....we gained a sister!! My brother got married middle of June to a wonderful wonderful girl...ok...woman. Such a fun time of celebration! They decided to take their vows over the phone.

Yes...sometimes we raise hands in the Churches of Christ

Love this picture of my grandma.

And here is our favorite Aunt Kay. She's so good at coming over and visiting when we're in town!

We also had our annual Spencer Brothers' Weekend. We took it to the beach and it was GREAT!! No better place for a digger.

Caden and Kate....she and Kyler are SO MUCH BIGGER now!!

Ok...that's all for summer part 1!! :)

May! Halfway there! Brace Yourself....too many pictures

2011-08-12T18:03:00.001-07:00

What's a Cinco de Mayo celebration without a moustache?

May saw A LOT of us outside. They built a rode in front of our house, and Caden spent hours and hours watching the heavy machinery.

Tate turned 1!!!

And got his celebratory birthday muffin

Happy Birthday Boy

4 generations of Spencer men

Apparently Caden's practicing his mugging disguise. I wouldn't recognize him. Jed seems impressed too.

Tate is into hitting. He's just attempted contact and is looking at me to make sure it was "ok"

surprised?

Our little cousins Kyler and Kate also came for a visit, and we had so much fun! They've grown so much since this picture....

4 naked cousins. How long can we keep this tradition going?

Seriously....beautiful....blue eyes

I love walking away shots....not much cuter than a little fellow following his daddy.

Caden got his "nature guide" certification. He's informing the tour group that this is an oak. yea yea, an oak.

This is the official tour guide pose. Rugged yet approachable.

Such a tiny little man

Such a big little man

I know, I know...another walking away shot...couldn't resist

Bamboo walking sticks are the best

But sometimes they can leave splinters....

Just two cowboys enjoying their pizza

I truly love this one of Jed. Such a great expression.

Tate couldn't have pizza, so we gave him a rock.

I think this is Jed's sheriff face. It looks authoritative.

And to end it out....Jed and Caden are pretty good at playing David and Goliath....with capes. Here we have the call to battle.....

The smooth stone flying through the air....

And the mighty Goliath falls....

Maybe you'll get a break tomorrow...and then again....maybe you won't. :)

April

2011-08-11T12:22:00.000-07:00

April was a busy month. We headed to Plano for a birthday celebration of all the Muns girls that had birthdays the first half of the year. Caden, Tate, and little cousin Hudson had a great time playing on the dog's bed. It makes me shudder a little just to think about all the dogginess going on there, but I guess they didn't die.

Cutest face ever.

After sitting on the dog's bed, they continued to act like dogs outside. Apparently it's contagious.

And....we had EASTER!

This was at the church egg hunt

Love this picture of Drayton...so debonair

Since I'm a mean mother and wouldn't let Tate have candy, he settled for the next best...orange peel.

Tate was not too excited about this year's Easter Bunny. However, I think this is a big improvement over last year's extremely scary bunny.

Tate learned how to fee himself with no hands

Gotta love a good grapejuice popsicle

Caden fell in love with his helmet

And wore it everywhere...even to eat

Picking blackberries is a full contact sport...hence...the helmet again

We went to our good friends' house in Mt. Pleasant for some easter egg dying.

Caden and Norah making sure they had the same amount

Our attempt at a family picture...we'll take it. ;)

The double chicken wing makes its way into lots of Caden's pictures. I like it.

This one makes me laugh. I was done.

Cousin Easter at our house

Before it got blazing hot, we could to and play at the park. This is one of Caden's favorite buddies, Jed.

Quinn and Tate had lots of fun putting out fires

And Kanyon gave him some lessons on the best way to palm a ball

Couldn't help but put this one in. It's a classic Tate face.

And we're off to May!!!!!!!!!

March 2011 - Yes, I said March

2011-08-10T12:20:00.001-07:00

Since I'm almost 6 months behind, I'm going to catch up in a major way...each day....a new month, until I'm caught up. You might want to delete me from your reader. :) So...in March...we......

Drew on the sidewalk. Caden is in the process of making some quite artistic whales and owls. Mine weren't much better.

Below: close-up of a. owls or b. whales

Answer: a. owls

Caden took a nap with bears

So did Tate, but he was rudely awoken by a jumping bear.

Tate screamed. a lot.

Caden made a monster fort.

Um....not sure what happened here...but it happened in March.

Kids longingly looked outside

Avery wondered why Caden didn't use a spoon

And why he was so happy about having blueberry juice all over his face

made a fort out of bamboo sticks

aforementioned bamboo sticks

went on a nature walk and smelled some flowers

picked a tulip flower from a tree that is no longer in existence due to a large family of beavers... a family who picked the wrong house to vandalize...a family who cut down their last tree

avery lamenting the loss of the tree

Tate: pretending not to notice Mallory

Tate: offering Mallory a treasure

Tate: making sure Mallory had tickets to the gun show

remember those colors? :)

In March, we also went skiing.

and made Caden work for his room and board

Tate got his first guitar lesson

He meditated on the finer points of picking

and decided to give it a try

He also worked VERY hard on his mad scientist face. I think you'd all agree that his practice has paid off

In March, Caden also grew some spidey senses and can now climb up walls

Today March, tomorrow April

Cookie's Honduras Visit

2011-05-14T19:25:00.000-07:00

Back in January, Ty and Adam went to Honduras with a medical mission's team from Pine Tree, and Cookie came to fill the husband void. She did a FABULOUS job.

We think this look is coming back in style.

Deep conversations over snacks...probably about world peace

Cookie made some good costumes. This is David. Guess who was Goliath....

David slayed (slew?) the mighty Goliath and then took his staff to cut off his head

David was very gentle....

Hooray! Hooray! The Lord has won the battle!

Drayton and Tate got a lot of good cousin time

The infamous Cookie nose wipe...feared by all

This equals complete happiness in Tate land. 2 remotes. What could be better?

First Hair Cut

2011-05-14T19:23:00.000-07:00

Back in February, Caden got his first hair cut.....ever. We have some slow growing hair over here...unless it's my facial hair. That's another story. Here's Caden's before. It really did hurt me to cut it, but I guess it was time.

Ms. April did a GREAT job.

A new man and his prize

See...the haircut made him instantly older. Only old men stand like that.

Another happy Jim Trim experience!

cat claw and snow

2011-05-14T19:22:00.000-07:00

You may remember sometime, a while back....we got some snow. Now that it is 100 degrees here, I thought we could use a reminder. :)

When we got tired of playing in the snow, these two super heroes could be found fighting crime and flying around the living room. The bad guys were very, VERY intimidated. Who wouldn't.

Our David and Goliath snowmen

And now, for a musical interlude....Enjoy

Smidgens...or Mr. Smidgens to you

2011-04-14T12:57:00.000-07:00

A while back, we had an uninvited guest show up at our door. He was dark as night and hairy....no, not Ty...and from the moment we saw him, we knew he must be named....Smidgens. Apparently Smidgens ran away from home, and he is now the neighborhood cat, roaming from house to house. Caden love love loves him.

Baby Dedication

2011-04-14T12:56:00.001-07:00

I know some of you out there have been worried about the future of one Tate Spencer. Worry no longer. He has been properly dedicated.

Remember that one time....it snowed?

2011-04-14T12:56:00.000-07:00

How perfect does that snowball look? Adam didn't spend all that time in school for nothing.

This is probably one of my favorite pictures of Caden ever. Such a little man.

Apparently Tate wouldn't look at the camera. Nothing like a big brother to force the issue.

When we got tired of the snow, we came inside.....and Caden was magically transformed into Jonah. This "belly of the great fish" got a LOT of game time.

And then back outside to enjoy the hot flash that immediately followed the snow.

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Nashville Christmas

2011-04-14T12:54:00.000-07:00

I lost most of the pictures from Nashville Christmas on a card, and it has yet to turn up....which probably means it has been sucked into the black hole that has consumed my other "lost" things. These were pretty much all I came back with....

Nashville has a great zoo, and the weather was so great we decided to take advantage! At one exhibit....something like a leopard....Caden said, in a not quiet voice, that he wanted to kill that cat and eat it. Hard not to laugh, but it was a little uncomfortable with other parents around.

Tell me these boys don't look like twins.....

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Spencer Christmas - only 5 months late

2011-04-14T12:53:00.000-07:00

I did a pretty poor job documenting Christmas this year. I kind of go through picture taking phases, and Christmas is a TERRIBLE time to go through one of the ebb stages. Here are some I got of Spencer Christmas.....

The annual caroling sleigh ride

Tate with sweet Paw Paw

The calm before the storm....reading Jesus' birth and the greatest cause for celebration!

Two Bitty Cousins

2011-03-30T11:40:00.000-07:00

Tate thought Mac was hilarious, and I wish I'd gotten more of the laughing on video. Nothing kills a good time like a video camera. :)

Breakfast with Santa

2011-03-02T19:17:00.000-08:00

Tate had his first breakfast with Santa, and Grandmother came to play. I think she secretly wanted to ask the "big guy" for her own Christmas wish. :)

Drayton is not sure about the man in red...

Tate can ride the buckin' bronco even in his "bubble" suit.

Santa came in to visit with each good little boy and girl before the official present giving, and Caden wasn't letting him out of his sight as he moved around the room...

And when the big moment arrived.....he asked.....

If rudolph had come with him. He was VERY concerned about rudolph.

Tate wasn't too excited either way about Santa. We'll see next year if the fear sets in.

Caden with one of his favorite cousins!!

Farm Fun

2011-03-02T12:28:00.000-08:00

We normally go every year to cut down our own tree, but since the selection is crummy and kids end up melting down, we decided to take it to the farm instead. Good choice.

Caden and Nolan enjoyed the barrel o toys. Weapons are always a big draw and a reason to grab.

I think Caden likes what he sees. Ok...a little inappropriate, but I couldn't help myself.

On the way out to the farm, we saw this lady walking with her child and invited her to enjoy the day of fellowship with us.....

Apparently she felt comfortable enough to nurse her 2-year old in plain view. We applaud her for her utilization of the freedom to nurse as long as she wants and wherever she wants.

Sweet Mallory....don't you want to squeeze those cheeks!

Caden fell...a lot...and almost always close to poop.

I'm celebrating looking really good. You know I do.

eat up!

stare-down between Caden and Lefty. Lefty won.

All of the "big kids"

You would make a face like that too if you peeked over the fence and saw a horse driving a tractor backwards while singing Jingle Bells. It really happened. Caden was there.

Never too early to start hauling hay.

pinch!

My sweet tiny love. Tate is such a happy, easy baby. He LOVES being outside and is pretty content if he has a full belly and enough sleep. I told him to look innocent here. Pretty good interpretation, I think.

Giggling with grandmother

Grandaddy taking his two little men on a tractor ride.

One reason Tate loves the outdoors is the proximity to free food. Leaves, grass, sticks....you could eat for days and never crawl more than a foot or two.

Christmas Tree oh Christmas Tree

2011-03-02T12:26:00.001-08:00

I can't believe it, but I'm pretty sure these are the only pictures of i have of our tree...so you will never know just how beautifully random it looked when we finished decorating. :) We made the trip to Home Depot this year and picked out the loveliest tree....

Caden had to give it the "hug test"

We let Caden do the honors of cutting off the netting. He's up for anything he can do with a pair of sharp scissors.

Angle is everything.

IMG_0469

Who doesn't love a good tutu

2011-01-30T10:23:00.000-08:00

While I'm catching up on Christmas posts, here is a recent one. Janelle, Drayton, Caden, Tate, and I got to spend some time in Mt. Pleasant playing with the Deans, and it was a "magical" play date....one of those where the kids behaved, we got to sit, eat, and talk, and it felt like we'd played instead of just wrangled when we left. Caden had quite a bit of fun with Norah's dress up clothes. I see a future camper/staff costume.

Some people only have figurative "thinking caps." Caden's is literal.

Tate apparently asked Norah for a puppy to ride on his head. Good girl was happy to oblige.

Busy little cousins. More and more people have said that Caden and Drayton favor each other. I'm starting to see what they're talking about.

Norah got a bounce house for Christmas, and they had SO much fun playing. Wore them right out.

Drayton also loved the bounce house. hehe. To be fair, he missed a nap and had trouble going down in a strange place, so he was a bit out of sorts. Tate the compassionate felt his pain.

Two if the little buddies together

Los tres amigos!!

Caden truly loves to read...even more when he gets to read to his beloved

I am also easily entertained by a wipe box.

weo weo wo mah mah mah (that's my best effort at the Western standoff music)

We had so much fun playing. It was a brief couple of days of wellness before our next round of crud. I've never been so ready for a season to be over. Winter, you are not my friend. We're through.

Tennessee Thanksgiving

2010-12-13T07:50:00.000-08:00

We went to Nashville/Rogersville for Thanksgiving this year, and it was a lot of driving, but totally worth it.

Caden is really into "cooking" lately, and he got to help Cookie with quite a few dishes.

Both Caden and Tate got a little time with my mom's sister, Aunt Kay.

Caden with my cousin Bryan's son, Brady.

This was a stroller that my mom rode in when she was little. I LOVE things like that.

We left on Tuesday and drove to Rogersville, TN where my dad's parents live. That's where we grew up spending Thanksgiving, and it's always a nice break from "life." I remember playing with these waffle blocks when we were little, and Drayton had so much fun riding back and forth since the weather was GORGEOUS!!

Customary hike down by the old cabins. Always a good picture taking spot.

Welcome. The cabins are reportedly haunted. This may be one of the ghosts of the original settlers. She looks inviting, I think.

Hope you got your tickets.....for the GUN SHOW!

Looking at some deer tracks.

This is one of Tate's favorite faces. He's going to have jaw problems later if he keeps opening his mouth that wide.

Cousin Ben played with Caden for hours, and later on so did Cousin Andrew. Caden has some new heros.

Meh.

What poor taste.

After Thanksgiving dinner, we always sit in the "pit" and sing for however long we all last. I appreciate it more now that I'm older.

4 generations: Caden and Tate, me, my dad, and his parents

IMG_0429

I know I'm behind.....

2010-11-03T07:02:00.000-07:00

So, until I get my act together, here are some pictures that make me smile....

Stay tuned...big things coming....or maybe not. Just stay tuned.

Tate and Caden

2010-09-08T12:22:00.001-07:00

I know that's a totally boring title. Most of the time when people see Tate, their first comment is how much he looks like a clone of Caden. I definitely think there are similarities, but here's a little comparison so you can see just how different they do look!

Both pictures were taken at the same place. Tate is a bit older than Caden was, but close enough. The first one is of Caden......

And this is his fairer brother, Tate....he's a little Casper for sure.

It'll be interesting to see how they look as they grow up.!

Two Silly Monkeys

2010-08-16T18:30:00.001-07:00

Tate is growing like a little weed, and he's just been the most pleasant little thing. His lower lip is constantly out, he's started screeching just to exercise his lungs, and he loves to smile.

Tate's already been taking self defense classes. He's very advanced and has been compared to Chuck Norris.

Showing off his dimple.

Caden has forgotten how to roll over, so we do tummy time with him as well.

I know the next few pictures are pretty much the same. I just can't pick.

Caden has a love/hate relationship with food, so we try to distract him when he's eating. Most of the time it works.

I wonder where he's seen this look.....?

Sometimes...when I'm tired....

2010-08-16T18:18:00.000-07:00

I set Caden's alarm and make him fix me breakfast. Don't worry, he's very careful.

IMG_0895

Having a baby....

2010-08-16T15:22:00.001-07:00

Can really alter your appearance. I'm not sure what Burton's excuse is.

I think we all look a little better in this one.

And one more for your viewing pleasure.....I did get permission to post this.

It's been hot...really hot

2010-08-14T05:48:00.000-07:00

It's been so hot that even Caden's shadow needs watering....

Along with the withered plants in the pots....and Caden, armed with his spray bottle, is just the man for the job.

I know there's some controversy about child piercings, and we decided that if Caden wanted a piercing, he could have one...no matter how old. Wouldn't you know he'd start with a nose ring. I think it adds a whole other dimension to his appearance.

In support of Caden, Adam got his pierced too.

Nothing like a little naked golf. He always hits left handed, whether he's playing naked or clothed. It'll be interested to see if that sticks around.

Sometimes when you don't have a ball, a sock will do.

Sweet little Tate singing to his bird.

Nashville and North Carolina

2010-08-13T18:53:00.000-07:00

One of my good friends decided to get married in North Carolina, and we figured it was high time Tate took his first real trip, so we made a good long weekend out of it. We flew into Nashville where we got to spend a couple days with Slappy and Cookie before hitting the road. Grape Juice popsicles are a Saunders specialty.

Caden is always very generous with his water hose drinks. He concentrates extra hard in order to place the water in just the right spot.

This is how Slappy waters the yard. Like grandfather like grandson.

We stayed at the Hemlock Inn in Bryson City, NC, and I would absolutely recommend it to anyone who wants a beautiful, peaceful, family style vacation in the Smokies. Here we are right before a little hike.

Caden loved getting to walk through the trees and hunt for bears and pick blackberries.

Tate stayed awake for the first half and then was lulled into a Baby Bjorn coma.

The view. Not too shabby.

Here's one of the few pictures we have as a family all dressed up. Tate was sleeping.

These two provided the reception music, and it was FABULOUS! He stood in front of them sooo patiently and asked in between songs to play the guitar. They finally let him touch the banjo, and then they gave him his own instrument to play. He was in heaven.

Caden is a GREAT helper with Tate.

Noelle and J.T. left in a haze of sparklers, and Caden was more than happy to light one up for them.

It was all fun and games till he had a spark to the eye.

Tate is such a content little thing, we can park him just about anywhere. Feel kind of bad sometimes, but...well, it's great.

Round 2 for the sparklers

We ended the weekend back in Nashville, and we had so much fun seeing Slappy, Cookie and Uncle Burster.

We've been trying hard to have nightly devotionals, and Slappy read the story our last night there.

Our first attempt at scripture memorization.

End of June and July

2010-08-13T16:00:00.001-07:00

Here's a sort of recent picture of a little Tate monster. Can't believe it's been 3 months already!

End of June we spent a day out at Camp Deer Run with Ty, Janelle, and Drayton. It was so much fun and a great introduction to future days and weeks out there. These two little cousins are going to have so much fun together as they grow up!

If you have a toddler and don't have a puddle jumper, you're missing out. I'm not kidding. Best pool floatie invention ever.

Uncle Ty has always had a special place in Caden's heart, and I'm pretty sure his love deepened with every meeting this summer.

For the 4th of July, we went out to camp again for quite an impressive show, if I do say so myself. Ever since, Caden will break out in random "USA! USA!" chants.

The Bowers rode out there with us, and we're so glad they're close enough that we can play together! Jed and Caden have no choice. They have to be friends.

For SALE! :)

2010-07-20T06:27:00.000-07:00

Hello Blogland. I am shamelessly using this Blog to sell some stuff. Don't worry...it's a one time thing. :) Here's what you can get:

Mikasa Gothic Platinum China - $40 for a 5 piece place setting (14 available)

This stuff is brand spanking new. I've never used it, and pretty much all of it is in it's original plastic. I'm trying to declutter and simplify, so if I haven't used it, it's going. :)

Wallace Rosepoint Sterling Silver - Various prices

I'm selling this for the same reason. Never used it and probably won't.

Here's my facebook marketplace listing where you can see pictures and prices for the sterling silver. http://apps.facebook.com/marketplace/seller/41576485/?listing_id=2055508044

Hope ya'll are having a great day and sorry for the infomercial. :)

Some Random Pics

2010-06-25T13:21:00.000-07:00

Neiman Marcus called and asked if Tate could pose in order to help them sell their mini grand piano. Tate was only too happy to oblige. I hope they don't mind Tate's daddy (Adam, for those of you trying to figure that out) halfway in the shot.

Proper headgear is required when playing the piano seriously. One of Caden's favorite things here lately is playing and singing with Grandmoner

A little brother nap time

Caden's good friend Norah turned 2, and we got to be there for the big event!! Unfortunately, Caden was sick and had to stay home, but Tate was a good fill in. These three boys were all born within 3 months of each other!!

Nothing like a good party hat.

Tate agrees

Aunts Shanna and Crystal got Caden this bubble gun, and he could not WAIT to try it out. It is currently out of commission to do overplaying with it, but we have hopes that it can be revived.

Tate has some pretty crazy, sweet faces, and I just wanted to be able to come back in 20 years and remember some of them.

I think this one is my favorite.

And this one is one we see quite frequently. He really is a happy baby, and it's not hard to get him to smile.

We told Tate if he looked into Caden's glasses, it would steal his soul. Good boy, Tate. Good boy.

1 month with Mr. Cat

2010-06-25T13:19:00.000-07:00

Tate has actually known Mr. Cat for longer than 1 month. He was a present from Tate's Great Aunt Ruth...and she really is GREAT! :) This was taken more around 6 weeks than a month. I'm a procrastinator.

I told Tate to try and smile like Mr. Cat here. Pretty good impression.

Here he's imitating the Cowardly (or courageous according to Cookie) Lion from the Wizard of Oz. "Put 'em up....Put 'em up"

Apparently Mr. Cat suffers from chronic flatulence. Who knew.

2 Years old and his FAVORITE buddy

2010-06-25T13:17:00.000-07:00

We decided to have a family birthday party at Grandmoner and Granddaddy's house, and Caden had a great time! Kanyon and Caden truly love each other. They were going to have to be best friends anyway, but it's nice we don't have to force them. :)

Tate is doing his best to imitate Slappy's expression. It takes quite an actor to get this one down.

Seriously...they really love each other.

I'm pretty sure they're trying to look innocent here, but we know better.

Uh huh....Caden's facade is beginning to crack. Guilt.

Plotting how they're gonna get out of whatever they did. Sneaky, sneaky boys.

Caden had never seen one of these, so Grandmother gave him a quick lesson

He looks like such a big boy in this picture carrying his own plate.

A rare picture of me with Caden.

Chatting it up with Paw Paw

It was hard to narrow down the Caden/Kanyon pictures. They gave me so many good opportunities!

Caden doesn't seem too confident in Cookie's horsemanship.

Adios.........

Cookie and Slappy Catch-Up

2010-06-24T14:54:00.000-07:00

After Tate was born, my mom and dad got to come and stay for 3 weeks total, and it was WONDERFUL! I'm so thankful they could and wanted to come stay and play with us.

Slappy has the magic touch with putting babies to sleep. I have pictures of him with Caden almost just like this.

With Slappy comes the iPhone, and Caden was quickly enthralled. It also plays Barbara Ann by the Beachboys...a Caden favorite and Slappy special.

Slappy and Cookie one night with all their grandsons. There were about 50 of these...I just picked my favorites.

the way Slappy does cowboy

Caden turned 2 on June 5th, and we'd saved one of his Christmas presents to give to him at his birthday. His "bike" was from Mammas and Pop Pop, and it was love at first sight. If only his legs were a bit longer.

practicing his cheesy smile

Slappy was a HUGE help entertaining Caden while we were busy with Tate. That included ROASTING outside. Thank you, Slappy!

Can't wait till our next visit together!

Thank You God

2010-06-24T14:53:00.001-07:00

I don't know if you can tell exactly what happened from looking at this picture, so let me try and map it out for you. There's a green changing pad on the ground. There's an empty down rod hanging from the ceiling above...and there's a ceiling fan lying on the ground.

Caden, Cookie, and Drayton had been swimming in this little plastic pool to the left, and I'd brought Tate out on that green changing pad. He'd been laying there, just where it is, and we'd turned that ceiling fan on to get a breeze. It hadn't been too long, when we heard a crash. It took just a moment to realize that the fan had fallen out of the ceiling. It should have landed directly where Tate was sleeping but something kept it from going where it should. The fan blade swept over his back, and it tipped to the side.

It was one of those "what if" moments...one of those moments where we immediately thanked God for His protection. One of those times where we realized that even if that fan had fallen as it should have and crushed our little boy, that God would still have been good.

It's a Jungle Out There

2010-06-24T14:53:00.000-07:00

Many of you may not know that we have a Bamboo Jungle growing in our back yard...seriously. We do. Caden thinks they're fishing poles, and he's been eyeing this one for quite a while.

He is a bunch of pure energy here lately when he's not sick. It just feels wrong to have a runny nose in 100 degree heat.

A swimming boy

2010-06-02T17:40:00.001-07:00

Random Hodge Podge - no, I'm not referring to my brain

2010-05-24T14:27:00.000-07:00

Life is settling into a bit more of a routine. Caden is pretty much good with Tate as long as Daddy doesn't pay too much attention to him. All in all, though, Caden has been very sweet with "baby Tate."

Adam has been able to be home a bit more since Tate came, so he and Caden have been playing HARD outside. Most days Caden sweats buckets, but he doesn't seem to mind. Not many kids can look this cool while driving a tractor in a diaper.

Uncle Kyle and Aunt Shanna got to come meet Tate, and it was so much fun seeing them and getting to catch up. It won't be long till they DOUBLE the Spencer grandchild count. Woohooo!!

Tate was quite taken with Aunt Shanna. :)

One of Caden's favorite things to eat is blueberries, and he lets no part go to waste. He often ends up with fantastic blueberry mustaches after downing the leftover juice.

Grandmother came and helped the first week after Tate was born, and it was SO VERY appreciated!!

We've also gotten to see cousin Drayton a lot lately, and he's already babysitted once or twice. I know he looks young, but he's very good with kids and has a maturity far beyond his 3 months.

One of Tate's outstanding features are his arms. They're long....really long. Caden, when he was born, was not able to extend his arms past his head. Tate can touch his fingertips together above his. No T-Rex arms here.

Tate also has very dramatic dreams. Wish I knew what a little guy has to dream about that would be so horrific.

Cookie is here, and we've loved playing. Slappy will be here soon too, and we just can't wait!

Tate had his first outdoor photo shoot the other day, and here's a couple that I've had a chance to play with so far. I love a naked baby outside. :)

And here's one of my other little man. I hope to have a girl at some point, but I sure do love my boys.

We're home!

2010-05-15T10:44:00.000-07:00

We made it home on Wednesday afternoon, and it's good to be settled. We came home to a snick (that's a combination of sick and snotty....also representative of the way I've been talking lately) Caden, so it's been hard to keep him away from Tate, but I can't think of things that make me feel worse than a sick newborn. He's been sooo sweet, though, which is a blessing. He just wants to kiss him and look at him. Hopefully that will last.

Love a yawning baby

Tate just whistles when he's hungry. It makes it nice that I don't have to listen for those "hunger" cues

Caden's energy level has tripled in the last couple of weeks, so he and daddy have been busy busy busy playing and working. We brought out the blow up pool yesterday and cleaned out a season's worth of debris. Well worth it. ;)

Don't drinks from the water hose just taste better?

I see a future in twirling....maybe those things in the Olympics?

And this is inevitably how Caden always ends up outside. Yay for summer!

A few faces from today

2010-05-11T12:22:00.001-07:00

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Tate is here! Hallelujah!!

2010-05-10T19:19:00.001-07:00

This is Kristen here coming at you from the Longview Hilton....I mean the hospital. :) For those of you who haven't been watching my due date like a hawk, Tate was supposed to come (according to the wonderful Dr. Tibiletti) on May 1st. Tate decided that was a bit early. He needed to fatten up a bit more first. So, he chose one of his favorite aunts, Stefani's birthday instead.

Contractions began around 8 this morning, and by 10-ish, I was feeling a bit panicked. We got to the hospital around 10:45, and by then my contractions were 3 1/2 min. apart. Needless to say, I was ready for my backless gown and room. Here we are below...the last picture of our family of 3. Sorry, no picture of the backless gown. Yes, I know I look wonderful in my wife beater and Adam's shorts.

And here is Mr. Tate! He made his debut at 2:30 and weighed in at 8 lbs 1 oz, 21 inches. His delivery went much smoother than Caden's, and we're just so thankful....so thankful that we're all healthy. God is just so good...all the time.

Tomorrow he may be 19 inches. I'm not sure how much of his Caden-esque cone head measured into his height. Apparently that's my birth canal's signature.

We both thought he looked just like Caden, but we're starting to change our mind. Something here reminds me of my Grandfather Church. By the way, those aren't my fingers. They're too long and skinny.

Daddy, Tate, and Grandmother, who has been a champ watching Caden and coming to the hospital!!

Caden's not quite sure what's about to hit him, I don't think, but he was pretty sweet. Pretty much he was more interested in the hospital bed buttons than the little wrapped ball of flesh, or brudder.

Thank you ALL for your continued thoughts and prayers! We crave them and are so thankful to be surrounded by so many who love us and were interceding for us!

One of Caden's favorite Things

2010-04-23T07:42:00.000-07:00

One of the things that Granddaddy (Gran Nanny) and Caden do together is play the guitar. Caden has learned how to hold it and, more importantly, how to place his pick in his mouth while he gets the guitar in just the right place. We got him a guitar from Walmart, and he will decide to give random concerts, though none for the video camera yet. I'm working on it.

First Family Pictures

2010-04-14T13:40:00.001-07:00

That's right. These are the first pictures we've had taken since Caden was born of our entire family. Glad I waited till 36 weeks to do it. ;) We had so much family in town for Easter, and Shanna (my sister-in-law) came over, and we traded picture taking before the family hunt. I LOVE them!! I just wish I'd taken off my ugly (though very comfy) shoes and black ironman watch. I guess that's life though, huh. :

A bit of chocolate bribery was involved to keep Caden engaged and happy. I'm not ashamed.

A little under 3 weeks to go now! I still feel great pregnancy-wise, although I've somehow managed to get some nasty poison ivy that decides to keep popping up in new random places. It must have been all that wood chopping I was doing in the back yard. In Longview, pregnant women chop wood. It's just what we do.

Caden's run-in with the Easter Bunny

2010-03-28T12:57:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure anything from the Easter Bunny will be received with joy and happiness in the future. I can't say I blame him.

Little Buddies

2010-03-10T14:21:00.001-08:00

Last week, Caden's buddy from down the street got to come over and play. Caden is learning how to play.....a little. they mostly just followed each other around and played beside each other. There's something so cute about two little boys puttering around.

My one mistake was setting them loose in the front/side yard. It was a bit hard to get them to come back where I could coral them. They can smell freedom, and it smells good.

The 1 buttercup we had in our front yard.

I'm not sure this gate will hold Caden for too much longer. We picked the right theme animal for him when we picked a monkey.

Blue Steel. We've almost perfected the look.

Can't wait for more playdates in the future now that it's warmer!!! Woooohooooo!

Pictures of the newest soon to be Spencer

2010-03-05T18:15:00.001-08:00

We had our final ultrasound today, and we thought we'd give you all a sneak peek of our newest baby boy. :)

I'm pretty sure he has a mustache in this first one....which is weird because the technician said she didn't see any hair on his head. That...would be awesome.

This is the foot that I can always feel on my right side. It's neat to see a picture of what he's kicking me with. I mean....I guess we all know what a foot looks like, but you get what I mean.

We had one more, but it was a picture of his boy parts in 3D, and for some reason, it just looked too graphic. If you want, I can email it to you....but then you'd look like a pervert.

Caden's Favorite Bible Character

2010-02-25T11:46:00.000-08:00

I bet Abednego never knew how funny he'd be to an almost 2-yr old boy. We're now considering that as an option for this new baby boy.

A Taste of Spring

2010-02-23T13:43:00.001-08:00

This past Friday, we had a BEAUTIFUL day and decided to take a walk outside for a little photo shoot. We had to set the tripod up, and I inadvertently cut off our heads, but I think I like it better that way. :) I think this might be the 1st belly picture I've had too. Sorry new baby. But here I am at 30 weeks!

Caden's new outdoor passion is gathering pine cones and sweet gum balls. We have both in abundance.

BAM! That's right.

One of his treasures. I love the look of pure joy on his face.

I have to say, I am ready ready ready for spring. We had buttercups bloom this past week, and that always makes me itch even more for warmer weather, but I suppose after spring comes sweltering summer, so I won't wish my time away. :)

The day Before the BIG snow. :) And then, I'll stop with the snow pictures

2010-02-19T14:15:00.001-08:00

The day before the snow really came, we got quite a dusting, and we got to play over at Uncle Ty and Aunt Nell's house, which means time with Coda (Co-ca), Caden's most favorite dog ever.

From the very beginning, Caden was VERY distressed about the snow getting on his shoes.

Pointing it out to Cookie in case she didn't see it

Finally had it with that snow on his shoes.

Uncle Ty came to the rescue with the plastic pool

The End

SNOW!

2010-02-17T20:17:00.001-08:00

I'm sure most of you have not even heard the news that it snowed in Texas. (please insert sarcasm here). :) It was pretty shocking though, and perfect timing, seeing that it allowed my mom to stay a few more days and play with us.

Caden wasn't too sure about the cold white stuff at first, but he made an uneasy peace with it.

It's a little hard to tell, but he's getting in position to beat the tar out of the snow on that branch.

Sometimes he plays with real toys, but he mostly prefers things like this tether ball on a string.

We don't have a real dog, but Caden does have a love for animals that he did not get from me. Every time we go outside, we have to visit his yard art dog and frog. I think they get more hugs and kisses than Adam and me.

High-stepping through the back yard.

I know by this point at least his hands were about to freeze off, but he just loves to swing.

and sing...simultaneously. This Little Light of Mine is always his first request.

Followed closely by The Wise Man Built.....this is the Oooooooh part right before the rains came down.

Some time after the swinging, we hit a tiny meltdown, but it was nothing some balls couldn't fix.

Accompanied by some sticks

And here is my creepy snowman. I'm pretty sure I looked like a "special" kid out there finishing it by myself while Cookie took Caden in, but it's just so much fun to play, whether you have a kid to blame it on or not.

A Good Practice Baby

2010-02-17T18:37:00.001-08:00

So, we've been a bit apprehensive about how Caden will react to having to share Mommy and Daddy with a new little creature come May. Needless to say, we were quite excited when we found out Drayton would be arriving in time to be a practice baby. We intend to take full advantage. :)

The first session went quite well. Caden was VERY excited about holding Drayton in his very own lap (wap). He is very generous with his kisses.

He was also sure to give a careful inspections, counting body parts and making sure all were impervious to pokes and jabs.

However, one thing he cannot tolerate is a yawn. Cookie swooped in just in time to save Drayton from a fierce backhand.

Delighted again.

When he realized we cheered for kisses, he got a little overzealous, and we felt it might be in Drayton's best interest to bring this practice session to a close.

Caden did not agree. There was more he wanted to accomplish, and fervent pleading soon turned

into utter despair

Thank goodness the praying bear was there to take Drayton's place. We were thinking of auditioning new practice babies, but decided that Drayton will fit the bill just right. What a lucky baby.

A Lesson in Coloring

2010-02-09T19:51:00.001-08:00

Picking out the proper color palette should be of primary importance to any serious artist. It demands study and a practiced eye.

The moment when said artist discovers that perfect color can be a joyful epiphany...almost worth the hours of searching.

The skin can prove to be a wonderful tester of the purity of any art medium. Do not discount its usefulness as a tool.

Clothing often restricts creative freedom and should be considered optional. Creative coloring poses should also be encouraged.

It is sometimes necessary to readjust and rethink. That color that you discarded in the beginning could be just the touch your work of art needs to be a masterpiece.

When you just can't seem to figure out what it's missing, a good friend's opinion can help.

Or maybe just comfort.

Even if you follow all of these rules, the finished product may leave you with some mixed emotions. Never fear. There will be new masterpieces to create tomorrow.

Drayton Scott Ford!!

2010-02-04T19:32:00.000-08:00

So...lately, this is what I've been getting to hold. :)

Ty and Janelle had Drayton Scott Ford this past Sunday, and he's a tiny (well, if 9 lbs is tiny) little red, hairy man, and he's so cute!

We do believe in Thanksgiving

2010-01-25T15:40:00.001-08:00

I know this question has been burning in your minds: Did the Spencers celebrate Thanksgiving. Rest easy, dear friends. The answer is, yes! We took Adam's grandparents' van to Nashville, Janelle and Ty in tow, and made a trip of it. It went surprisingly well considering we had 2 pregnant people and a child! While we were there, we had a family shower for Janelle, and it was fun to see all the things she got for Drayton!

The kids (and Aunt Kay) had their own special table

You never can predict how Caden will react in new situations, and he wanted to stick pretty close to familiar faces

Cute Tori, Merrill, and Mr. Bear

The whole Church clan got to come eat one night, and all the kids made good use of Cookie's dress up/toy room. I thought Emery's outfit was fabulous. I wish I could remember what she called it. That's what I get for waiting 2 months to blog about it.

Caden has always loved hats. ;)

Slappy and Cookie set up the swing in the front yard, and Caden couldn't get enough when it was warm.

A lurking pervert, however, dampened the mood for a bit.

but not for long...

Se spent actual Thanksgiving day and a few days before in Rogersville, TN where my dad's parents live. It's always a welcome retreat and so much fun to be with that side of the family!

I know I had more pictures, but that's all I can seem to locate for now. More burning questions answered......later.....duh duh duh!

Soon...

2010-01-24T20:05:00.000-08:00

This is how I'm going to feel when I finally get caught up with the blog updates......

Mac Question

2010-01-16T06:34:00.000-08:00

So....for the past almost 3 months, I have been PC-less and have been using Adam's Mac...very uncomfortable, but I'm learning to like. :) For anyone out there who uses a Mac and blogspot, HOW do you do it? Is there a fast way to upload pictures, or am I doomed to one by one? Any tips are appreciated. Hope everyone out there is doing well, and pictures will come soon!

Spencer Brother's Weekend 2009

2009-11-11T16:37:00.000-08:00

We had our 2nd annual Spencer Brother's trip, and we all took it to College Station to Kyle and Shanna's house for a perfect weekend! We got there Friday afternoon and got to just hang out and do a little shopping while we waitted for Shane and Crystal!

On Saturday, we took it to Ren Fest where sights like the one below were par for the course....or tame for the course......It was GREAT people watching, and Caden loved it!

We got to see a real live joust. We were France and cheered for our knight, Sir Philippe.

This was our French maiden who told us when to cheer and when to boo

She left her mark on Caden's virgin cheek.

Uncle Kyle carried Caden around A LOT and gave him a break from the stroller.

Caden started to wear out after a few hours, but he was quite the trooper.

Seeing the elephants perked him right up!

Yes...that's a real gnome behind Caden

Chilling with Aunt Crystal. Caden really has two of the best Aunts ever!

Checking out the video of him dancing. He's studying hard to see which moves he can improve.

And this is where Adam and I are now! We're taking a little recharge trip, and Caden is having the time of his life with Grandmother and Grandaddy. That's all the posts for now....promise. :)

some recent pictures. :)

2009-11-11T16:10:00.001-08:00

Well, my computer finally bit the dust. I've been without my trusty (ok...not so trusty) HP for almost a month now. Forgive all the catch up pictures, but I've gotta get them up while I can! :)

Kathy got us some Mums for around our fountain in place of the fake ones previous left. They looked great...until they died or Caden sniffed them to death.

He rarely walks now...preferring to trot/bound instead.

Grandaddy (paw paw) and Grandmother's (baw baw) house is a treasure trove of wonders for Caden. There's a garden, chicken, pigs...enough to ruin a boy for playing at home with his same old toys.

Caden was scowling at me until Eric drove up behind me and got him to laugh.

For Halloween, we delighted the neighborhood kids with candy AND toothbrushes! I think the bowl was just as full when we came home that night.

I made my first costume this year, and Caden was a mummy. Thanks Jaymie for the GREAT idea! You'll see some cousin mummies here in a bit.

notice the special ghoulish effect we carried around with us the entire night. I think, it added a little something extra.

Leaving Uncle Mike and Aunt Debbie's with his first treats of the night.....

which he gave away at Grandmommie and Paw Paw's house. He's a very generous mummy.

And then to Uncle Ty and Aunt Nell's to top off the night.

He has some special toys at their house, and his favorites are the keyboard and the harpsichord....at least i think that's what it is...

Kissing cousins. Caden is 1/2 Tennessee after all.

Caden and Kanyon have many more Halloweens together for sure.

That's all for now!

Everyone needs a little Mexican Fiesta

2009-10-07T13:00:00.001-07:00

For Adam and Katie's birthday, we wanted to think of a truly memorable way to celebrate. It was then that the idea of a Mexican Fiesta began to take shape. I think it was worth it, if only to see Caden, in a diaper, with a sombrero and a screw driver.

Ty and Janelle took it to the next level with car decals. We all voted and decided they should leave them. I'm sad to report that last time I saw that beauty of a car, it was missing its name.

For the record (you know you were wondering) the mustache is not real.

Luke truly was a Mexican. In fact, Luke wasn't there at all. Instead, he was taken over by the spirit of Jorge.

Jorge and Rosalinda

Caden loves Uncle Ty...even when he wears a shirt dress and looks nasty.

beauty....sheer beauty

We were going to give Caden a matching mustache, but unfortunately his runny nose prevented proper adhesion

I don't think the one below even needs an explanation

The whole group. For those of you wondering, I was a taco.

Rachel is our "special" friend

We waited a bit late for the pinata, so it was dark. That would have made it even more perfect for my original idea to fill the pinata with bees. More of an element of surprise.

All the September birthdays minus Lane! We missed ya'll!

A parting family portrait

Click here to view these pictures larger

My Baby Can Read

2009-09-21T09:04:00.000-07:00

You've seen it on TV. Well, it's true.....my baby really can read.....

We're still alive...and.....

2009-09-10T09:44:00.001-07:00

PREGNANT! Just wanted to get that out there before we got into the pictures from the past weeks. :) We're expecting in early May, so it's still pretty early, but I've never been good at waiting to tell people. :)

We've gotten all settled into our new house and are slowly putting away all the things we stacked in corners and along walls. It's starting to feel like a home. Caden has LOVED all the room he has to explore and walk and just not be in the same room 24 hours a day.

Adam has finished a little over a full week at work and is settling in well! Here are his first day of work picturs. He was nice enough to let Caden be in them with him.

For Memorial Day weekend, we headed to Paris and just had the best time! Other than my real home (Nashville) this is one of the only other places I feel truly at home. Thanks Jay and Gay for a WONDERFUL weekend!!

Caden and Landry were just the right size to pal around together. There were lots of rocks to inspect.

Last year, Caden and Ayelan posed for us, but this year we were unsuccessful. Maybe in a few months.

We asked who tooted. Caden was quick to point the finger.

Then he felt bad for ratting her out.

Caden will have to learn how to watch a girl's backside without really looking. This might get him slapped someday.

Stare off.

Jay's big catch!

We had a fantastic game of spoons Saturday night before bed. Battles were won, troops were injured, and sadly.....I did not come out victorious but had to suffer the humiliation of the spanking machine. Church cousins, you remember that, right?

I'll try to be better about posting more often now that we're getting more settled!

You have been sent 20 pictures.

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The land of the little people

2009-08-09T14:42:00.001-07:00

Mom, Janelle, and I got back from Ireland this past Wednesday, and we were all a little disappointed not to see any leprechauns, but it was a good trip nevertheless. One of mom's main concerns was keeping/working the international blackberry that we rented. We had lessons every day...sometimes the same lesson...sometimes multiple times a day...but she got better. ;)

We flew into Dublin after being awake for for e ver and headed to our hotel. We checked in and decided to get some lunch....

Before eating my first Irish Stew. Delicious.

We took one of the tour busses around the city and got off at the Kilmainham Gaol. It was a good tour..a little long for our tired bones, but good.

We got up the next morning and took a bus to Ennis. The trip started off well with a good breakfast.....

but quickly went downhill after Patches decided he/she didn't much like taking public transportation. What a snob. Janelle managed to throw up in the above pictured bag, but it burst as she stood up to leave. Pretty gross....pretty funny. I mean...that's a lot of throw up.

Ennis was pretty small, but it had this ruined abbey that was neat.

Here we are in front of our hostel in Ennis. I had accidentally booked a 4 person mixed dorm, and the guys were SO nice when we checked in. They blocked the 4th bed so we didn't have a strange man sleeping in there with us.

This was our only day of TERRIBLE weather. We took a bus to the Cliffs of Moher which were unbelievable, but we had a hard time enjoying them because of the driving wind and rain pelting us. Janelle got some

Cashel was our next stop and my favorite town. We had to change busses in Cahir, and Cahir Castle was right in front of the stop, so we got to look at it while we waited.

Our hostel in Cashel was situated in between Hore Abbey (I know...great name for a bunch of nuns, right?) and the Rock of Cashel which was my favorite thing that we saw. That's Hore Abbey behind us.

And the Rock of Cashel...a ruined monestary.....So NEAT!

The legend is that if you can get your arms all the way around this thing and have them touch on the other side, you'll never have any dental problems. I fell way short. Good thing there are a lot of dentists in the family.

That little white building is our hostel. GREAT location and GREAT owners.

We went to a traditional Irish music/dance show and it was WONDERFUL!

After Cashel, we headed back to Dublin and took day tours from there to a couple of places. The first was Glendalough, a monastic settlement in a valley that had some georgeous lakes.

We didn't quite make it up to this waterfall due to time constraints, but we did wonder what it might look like.

We saw Riverdance one night in this theatre.

Our 2nd day trip form Dublin was to see Newgrange, a passage tomb...about 500 years older than the Pyramids. Janelle had climbed atop one of the mounds here and is about to break into a traditional Irish jig.

not a Hobbit Hole

The tour was also supposed to go to Trim Castle...used in Braveheart, but it only stopped outside of it...we didnt' actually get to go in .

Our last night, we strolled the Temple Bar area where is apparently where all the night life happens. We just wanted to people watch, and this was PERFECT for it. These performers were pretty amazing....and equally amazing where the homeless ladies who danced to a beat that only they could hear.

This homeless lady looked quite cheerful despite the fact that she's surrounded by garbage.

All in all, it was a wonderful trip with lots of laughing....mostly at our stupidity, and GREAT memories with my mom and sister.

Open for Business

2009-07-19T15:53:00.000-07:00

Ok...I've been open for a bit, but I've just neglected to post about it! :) For those of you who don't know, I've begun a little photography business....you might have noticed the occasional non-Caden pictures. My website is junebugphotography.smugmug.com, and I'd love for you to check it out and let me know what you think! I'd love it even more if you wanted me to take your pictures! :) For those of you looking for something to brighten up your walls, there are some art/landscape photos too. Thanks for looking....that is....if you look. :0)

a week in Longview

2009-07-15T13:32:00.001-07:00

Adam had a little over a week's vacation, so we went to Longview and had a great time! Adam and I painted a few more rooms in the house, Caden got to hang out with Grandmother and Grandaddy, and Adam got a break from school. Caden was in heaven.

Since it was BURNING HOT, we put the pool up on the porch, so the adults could enjoy some shade while Caden swam.

Caden has always liked Adam, but he REALLY likes him lately, and it's so much fun to watch them together.

This is Adam's pig, Glenn. He got him when he was a tiny little baby, and now...well....he's just a huge disgusting pig, who, after an unfortunate run-in with some dogs, only has 1 ear. I've suggested eating him a few times, but so far it's a no-go.

Kathy is a master gardener and has an amazing garden.

This is actually where Adam proposed!

Caden got to see and RIDE his first horse. He had some mixed emotions....

Mr. Eric is a very good rider/trainer though, and soon Caden felt safe....not the one below...but the one after.

Yes, Caden does have a mom.

Walking around, Caden would have to bend down every little bit to get a different rock. You can see him salivating just thinking about putting them in his mouth.

We've got about a month left here in Dallas before the big move. I have such a mixture of emotions when I think about it. I'm sad to leave our church home and our friends here, but I'm also R E A D Y to be out of an apt. and to actually have a real yard...like with grass and trees. :)

Playing in the Rock Box....more fun than sand

2009-07-07T13:15:00.000-07:00

36 pictures for you

2009-07-07T11:33:00.001-07:00

Janelle, Caden, and I drove to Nashville the week before Father's Day, and we had such a great time! We met a group that my parents used to camp with when we were little, and we headed to Dale Hollow Lake, which was probably one of the most beautiful lakes I've seen in a while. We all had motorhomes, and Caden enjoyed playing with all the toys the other kids had!...even if they were girl toys.

This was our sweet set-up. Dad spent HOURS getting these tarps up, and it was nice to have some shade

This is my dad with his mom. When we were little, we'd get to spend a week...sometimes 2 with she and my grandfather in the summer, and it was just the best. We would play on a huge dirt hill, carve soap, watch Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.....just have the best time.

Grandma and Grandpa tent-camped, and they had to dry their stuff off more than once after it stormed.

The buckin bronco made Caden get a little crazy eyed....

Caden loved my cousin's daughter, Ashton!

Caden loves cars. Whenever he sees one, he wants to drive, and with the motorhome, he just had a short crawl up to the driver's seat.

The lifejacket we got was NOT a hit with Caden, and I have to say I don't blame him.

We all went and ate one night, and then on the way back some of us wanted to wakeboard and some wanted to go back, so the pontoon was the ferry back to the campbground. We thought it looked like a tour boat.

Aunt Nell got in a lot of quality time. I thought it was good for her to practice before Patches arrives.

Sometimes Caden takes a bit to warm up to new faces. Mr. Campbell is very smart, and he figured a toy might help Caden warm up a little faster.

He was right. :)

Nope...this isn't me. :) but it is Abby, and she's quite good!

Birthday Video

2009-07-02T10:24:00.001-07:00

Some birthday pics

2009-07-02T09:02:00.001-07:00

Ok...so I've been just a little delinquent in my blog posting lately, mostly due to the fact that I've been home a total of 2 days in the last 3 weeks. So, here are a few to catch us up...at least a little bit.

Caden is really into hats lately...namely baseball hats. He'll wait till I put one on his head and crawl and crawl before he whips it off and begs to have it put back on.

We had a small birthday party at Mammas and Pop Pop's house, and I think Caden liked it. He had fun splashing his feet in their fountain

clapping with grandmother

laughing at something REALLY funny that probably I said. I'm pretty funny.

getting some sugar from Grandaddy

Some of these are out of order...but after Caden's birthday, he took a long nap, and then we headed out to Beau, Lilly, and Marlee's birthday! Caden walked.....

and walked.....

and then got tired of walking so he decided to dance instead

Hollee surprised my mom with a ticket (THANK YOU!!!!) so she could come out for Caden's birthday, and it was just so wonderful to have her here!!

Caden playing with birthday boy Beau!

Caden made it up to the top before Cookie coaxed him back down. Ok...

After climbing the wall, Caden decided it was time to walk some more

These were the cake balls that I made in lieu of Caden's cake. I'm not sure who swiped one of the chocolate ones before I took a picture, but I'll get to the bottom of it or my name isn't Sherlock Holmes.

We had Caden's birthday party ON cousin Whitney's actual birthday, so we had to get a picture of them together. Thanks for sharing your birthday with Caden, Whitney!!

Cookie ate a lot of sweets, so Caden needed to check her teeth out after the parties.

He was a little afraid at what he found. We got him some dental equipment so he could fix her right up.

I didn't get a single picture of him "blowing" out the candle on his blueberry muffin (yes...I realize I'm a freak for giving my kid a muffin on his birthday), but I did get a video, so I'll try and get that posted soon.

Thank you!!

2009-06-04T10:24:00.000-07:00

Thank you for voting!! I ended up submitting BOTH 2 and 9 in different categories (it might have been stretching it....but it was worth a shot) I'll let you know how it turns out! :)

Way too many of the Smiths! :)

2009-06-04T10:18:00.001-07:00

So, I got to take pictures for the Smiths this past Saturday night in the Stockyards (one word?) and it was GLORIOUS! I don't know how I haven't been down there before, but I think I might have to go back. They came decked out in their fabulous western finery, and it just worked so well! Even Maddox had some sweet cowboy boots. Sorry for the amount of pictures here, but I had trouble picking. Hope you enjoy! :)