Keeping Up With the Joneses

This & That

2011-08-28T20:56:00.005-04:00

The past couple weeks have been full! We've got one crawling and pulling up, one potty training, one who just started Kindergarten and 2 that take care of kids all day...you might can figure out who's who. And we thank God for all of it.

Baby girl is growing up too fast!

K4 graduation

1st day of K...some of us weren't paying attention b/c we were trying not to cry!

do we own enough cars and books? this is his favorite game now that big sis is at school every day.

Trying to be like Daddy!

Recentness...

2011-08-10T09:53:00.003-04:00

I was told to update my pics by someone who will remain nameless. Over the past month, we had a great trip to WV full of fun and yummy meals from Big Daddy & Special K. And we finally got some pictures of the 5 of us thanks to Special K. Blaire is now 8 months old...she's crawling, pulling up and getting into trouble already! McAlister likes to wrestle both his sisters. Abby's about to start Kindergarten and got her new big girl haircut. We are all ready for cooler weather!! Enjoying seeing my kids grow and learn new things, but I'd like them to slow down and stay little longer....that's us in a nutshell.

7 months young...

2011-07-07T14:15:00.004-04:00

Blaire is almost 7 months old and changing way too fast! She's getting her first bottom teeth and trying to crawl. In the meantime she does some great yoga poses instead of moving anywhere.

See my 2 teeth!!

OD of floral here, but so cute!

That's some good downward dog!

This is a great one...typical Macallywacky!

Just us girls!

Beachin' it

2011-06-04T07:14:00.004-04:00

We had a great time at Edisto with my parents this past week. The kids really loved it and we loved watching them explore the shore! We only make it to the beach once a year. Abby loved it so much that she cried when it was time to go. Blaire still naps too much to appreciate the beach and the ocean breeze, but she did enjoy her 1st time in the pool. McAlister loved finding shells and digging in the sand. I have always loved beach trips because it's always such a huge reminder of how small I am and how big my God is. The water, the sunsets, the sea life...so amazing (except for the jellyfish b/c I do not love them!).

Mother's Day

2011-05-10T09:14:00.001-04:00

I must admit that I thought Mother's Day would be different. I think we glam up Hallmark holidays and have high expectations. The reality was that it was just like any other day. When I stop to think about it, I wouldn't want it any other way. Even though I no longer sleep in, don't have leisurely quiet meals, don't get to use the bathroom alone...I really wouldn't want it any other way...well maybe I'd go for sleeping past 6am ;)!!! It was a happy mother's day because I have 3 kiddos who call me Mommy...and that's the best sound in all the world. I know there are many people who miss their moms and so many who long to be mothers. I am grateful to have my mom 5 minutes down the road and have 3 healthy, happy kiddos as my alarm clock!

The adorable 3 that call me Mommy!

Can't believe she's already 5 months old!

Sisters!!!

A cute pic of all three or wrestlemania?

Future doc like Daddy??

4 months old!

2011-04-14T11:17:00.003-04:00

Such a big girl now! She's enjoying her exersaucer, she found her feet, she's rolling over a little...and sleeping 11 hours at night now and then. She's growing up so fast! The other two are enjoying the spring weather and the new springing they get to do on our trampoline!!

5 Years of Mommyhood!

2011-03-17T10:00:00.003-04:00

I've been a mommy for 5 years now! What a huge blessing children are. I definitely thank God for using Abby to teach me so much about myself actually. We love her so much! I hope the next 5 years are even more fun as we try to help her grow up to love God and others.

Stuff

2011-03-09T16:04:00.005-05:00

March Madness! Well it's always madness in our home it seems! We finally made it to the children's museum and just took a few pics on the phone. The kids LOVED it and we plan to go back lots since we got the February membership deal for the year.

Just a few pics of the kiddos doing life around our house. They keep us hopping!

Can't believe she's 3 months already!!

She wants braids all the time now!

The 3 Stooges!

2011-03-03T08:49:00.002-05:00

I feel like I'm on the set of "The 3 Stooges" some days. There is literally eye-poking! But anyway, here's a recent pic of all 3. And a few of just baby Blaire b/c she's growing up so fast...almost 3 months old.

In case anyone was wondering....

2011-02-17T13:36:00.004-05:00

...how my oldest children are getting along these days. These pictures could be taken on a daily basis! It always seems to be started with a hug from the boy, but then they both look pretty guilty.

Siblings

2011-02-17T13:32:00.002-05:00

After about 20 pics, these are the best believe it or not. Blaire's face really says it all..."let's get this over with, mom." And I love the big finish at the end...complete with leg raises...which were initiated by my son!

Paci days so long, farewell...

2011-02-06T16:12:00.003-05:00

Thursday marked the end of the paci. I loved the way he put it in upside down every time. He traded it for his 1st scooter. He's done okay during naps and bedtime. However, today seemed like the end of naps. I was singing "it's the end of the nap as we know it, and I'm not fine!" (do people remember that REM hit?) Then he went outside to 'play'. Fresh air and a swing must be a recipe for a nap when the paci is gone!

one handed entry!

2011-01-25T13:03:00.002-05:00

thanks to special k i have some pics of my kids to post. the days are flying by! i love these crazy kids! they keep me young...minus the gray hair!

she smiles!!

after bath curls!

my new very favorite pic!

Sisters!!

2011-01-10T21:32:00.002-05:00

It's been fun to be able to use our girl clothes again. My girls look a little alike when they're wearing the same thing...or do they??

Just some pics today to show we're alive and well

2011-01-10T21:27:00.003-05:00

Christmas Memories

2010-12-30T13:32:00.004-05:00

Well it went by in a blur, but we had a wonderful Christmas. We are so thankful for Jesus our Savior! It was a beautiful, white Christmas thanks to some late day snow. They LOVED playing in it the next day. The kids loved their new toys of course, but really enjoyed all the things we did to celebrate the true reason for the season. I'm thankful for new family traditions and memories being made.

3 weeks old already!

2010-12-30T13:30:00.001-05:00

Time is flying by! Finally the littlest Peanut here is gaining some good weight. Must be from all the yummy stuff I ate at Christmas!! I love sleeping pictures!!

We're surviving and thriving...sort of!!

2010-12-20T16:27:00.002-05:00

The kids got to meet Santa at Abby's school. I think that it was her first time actually sitting on his lap. McAlister decided to forego his first opportunity!!

Blaire survived her 1st week in the chaos of our home. We're all really tired, but so thankful for her...and even more thankful for Christmas coming up and celebrating our Savior's birthday. Hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

Happy 2nd Birthday to McAlister!

2010-12-12T15:01:00.003-05:00

The day we got home from the hospital we had to party it up for McAlister's 2nd birthday. Some of our family was still in town to help celebrate our baby boy's entrance to the terrible twos!! He's really a sweet boy though! He LOVES puppy dogs so that was our party theme. I love how he's cheering on the singing of the birthday song and loving that all the attention is for him. When he sings it he says, "happy birthday to me"!!

Blaire Allyn Jones

2010-12-12T14:34:00.005-05:00

It's a GIRL!! After 9 months of not knowing...SHE is here! Blaire was born at 8:24am on December 9th via c-section. She weighed in at 6lbs 10ozs and was 19.25 inches long. We obviously think she's the most beautiful, precious little baby ever! What a fun, early Christmas blessing. The kids adore her and are constantly asking to hold the new baby. We adore our family and thank God for his rich blessings poured out on us thru the miracle of children.

Christmas Spirit

2010-12-04T14:29:00.004-05:00

Tree shopping wasn't as glamorous this year as I hope it might be in the future. I want to go to a tree farm some day and cut one down. But with my big belly we opted for picking one up at a stand closest to our house. We love frasier firs and wanted to get all decorated early in case baby #3 made an early debut. We are ready now! Bring on the baby and bring on baby Jesus' birthday celebration!

38 week belly shot

Downtown Christmas parade...cold, but fun!

"Mice on Main"

2010-12-04T14:24:00.003-05:00

Thanksgiving weekend we finally made it downtown to do the little "Mice on Main" scavenger hunt. It was super cute to see the kids get all excited about finding each one of the mice...and admittedly I got excited, too! I love downtown Greenville!!!

Baby Watch :)

2010-11-21T20:44:00.002-05:00

Can't believe we're only 2.5 weeks away from meeting Baby Jones #3!!! This picture might skew your vote about whether #3 is a boy or girl. Seems like we might need another boy in the family after many moments in the playroom end up like this:

At least I have some great future rehearsal dinner pictures!!

The Joy of Leaves

2010-11-21T20:38:00.003-05:00

Love, love, love the fall leaf colors all around right now. Love, love, love seeing my kids play in the piles. My favorite pic ended up being the one of them covering their ears b/c they think Daddy's leaf blower is so loud!!

Catching up

2010-11-15T14:40:00.005-05:00

Here's some more fall fun. Better late than never Halloween pics of my 2 little pumpkins. I must say I was extremely grateful for all the chocolate they were able to bring into my life after going trick-or-treating in my parent's new neighborhood.

School costume parade...so cute!

Dance class finale

Some future soccer players???

Favorite evening activity = playing horsey with Daddy

On On PC....

2010-10-23T22:20:00.002-04:00

10 years after graduating...14 years after 1st stepping foot on PC's campus...time does fly by. Had a wonderful time last weekend catching up with my roomies. Life is very different for all of us, but in so many ways the same. Thankful for the work God did in bringing in our lives together so many years ago and how He continues to work. Thankful for my fond PC memories...I'm feeling really old!!!

Happy Fall Y'all!!

2010-10-10T20:08:00.002-04:00

Fall Fun Already!!

2010-09-10T08:33:00.004-04:00

Labor Day weekend we enjoyed a trip to the NC mountains with some friends. It is the most picturesque setting...so beautiful. AND it was just chilly enough for a fire one night!! We also already went apple picking with both sets of grandparents this week. I love some fresh, crisp, right off the tree apples!! It's always a lot of fun there and the apple cider slushies and doughnuts make it really fun!!

Summer Recap

2010-08-19T16:25:00.004-04:00

Summer has flown by! We've enjoyed that my parents moved about 5 minutes away!! Mom celebrated her big 60th birthday...doesn't she look great!

We had our 20 week ultrasound, but decided not to find out if baby Jones #3 is boy or girl. The 4D picture looks just like both kids looked as babies. I can't wait to find out...in December.

We had a nice week at Edisto Island with some great college friends. I was so thankful that both kids loved the ocean this year. Last year McAlister was barely sitting up and hated the bright sun. This year he scared me with his braveness!! I miss vacation!!

Check out that golf swing...she was hilarious and played the course 2 times swinging the club between her legs or sweeping the ball. Don't know that we have a future golfer!

Wild & Wonderful West Virginia

2010-07-23T08:15:00.004-04:00

Our July 4th trip to WV was great! So relaxing to spend time where Stephen grew up and for our kids to be able to play right where he played! We attempted some family photos, played in the sprinkler, chased a lot of bubbles, and ate really yummy meals that I didn't have to plan or prepare (thanks Big Daddy & Special K!!). After living there 4 years, Huntington holds many fond memories...

It's Peach Time!!!

2010-06-29T14:41:00.003-04:00

I LOVE peaches!! We're planning to go again later in July when the Contenders are ready, but today we got some yummy Red Haven peaches. We took my parents and went at 9am to avoid the heat...HAHAHA!! It was super warm, but the kids had a blast, especially once Abby found a ladder to help her reach some delish ones. McAlister kept grabbing them and saying "pull, pull, pull." You can tell he thought they tasted okay!

car ridin'

2010-06-29T14:36:00.002-04:00

this is how our car rides look some days when the kids actually entertain one another. i love it!

Girly girl some days, adventure girl the next!

2010-06-21T13:14:00.003-04:00

Abby comes down every day after her rest time (sadly she gave up napping a long time ago, like from birth!) dressed up in some ensemble that includes layers of pjs, leotards, princess dresses and accessories. I wish I took a pic everyday. I do laugh everyday!

The creek behind our house is super fun. One day the kids will love it when we let them go alone. For now we trek it together some days.

I LOVE ferns!

Cute stuff. I'm dreading the day we take away the paci b/c he loves it even more than she did...and he prefers it upside down!

Just some pics...

2010-06-06T21:19:00.001-04:00

Just a few pics of the kiddos recently. How about those curls on my baby boy!!!

Disney World!!!!

2010-05-05T15:44:00.004-04:00

Oh the magic of Disney...you wore me out last week! We really had a great time taking the kids on their 1st Disney trip. My parents graciously used their timeshare points and came with us so we could have 4 sets of hands keeping up with the kids. These are just a few highlight pics.

Day 1 at Magic Kingdom

The next 2 are taken at Cinderella's Royal Table breakfast where Abby met all 5 of her favorite princesses! This isn't the best quality pic, but look at her face...Ariel is her very favorite!

McAlister's favorite activity was getting wet when water squirted up from the ground at Donald's boat. See those shoes, we lost one the last day! :(

Hollywood Studios had fun shows

Animal Kingdom was really neat. Look at that sweet gorilla with her baby!!

I'd never eaten at a Rainforest Cafe. It was really neat in there when the storms started and all the animals came to life.

We met Pooh, Tigger and Eeyore. I just love Eeyore's expression. Abby hugged them all and of course got their autographs.

Easter-ish pics

2010-04-13T15:44:00.004-04:00

So our Easter morning pics didn't go very well. Stephen was on call and my solo efforts captured life as we know it. I actually really like the pics b/c they remind me of how it really is around here...not just posed smiles!! Pics of them separately always turn out better...hmmmm...wonder why.

Doesn't the new haircut look lovely!

Egg Dying and Body Slamming

2010-03-29T08:33:00.005-04:00

Egg dying went well this year...well to me means no newly dyed clothing. Abby loves to eat hard boiled eggs, so they aren't staying around long. I know they say not to eat the dyed ones, but I always did...and see how I turned out ;) !! This is the first spring we've noticed allergies with Abby. You can see her poor red cheeks, nose and eyes. We'll probably have to get her tested soon to see what seasonal or environmental things she's actually allergic to.

The kids are loving to wrestle each other these days. Abby will lay on the floor and say "Okay McAlister, come get me." And he precedes to jump on top of her like he's been wrestling all his life. It's hilarious!

Downtown Spring

2010-03-29T08:24:00.002-04:00

We walked around downtown this weekend. We love it there and miss living nearby. Found some neat picture spots among the thousands of beautiful places. It was a bit chilly, be we enjoyed the fresh air after some sickness this past week.

Abby's 4th Birthday!! :)

2010-03-25T15:38:00.006-04:00

Seriously? 4 years have gone by? March 16th was the big day! A few days early we had a friend party and Abby chose a ballerina theme and made the guest list. It was really cute!! We gave her a bike...completely decked out with princesses...which I guess means McAlister will have to get his own instead of using that one as a hand-me-down! She's really doing well on the bike...if only we had a decent place for her to ride it...too many hills around here! We love her so much! She makes us laugh a lot with her imagination, constant singing and dancing and her spunky attitude. She can make us cry also some days. God has truly blessed us with allowing us to be her parents.

McAlister is 15 months old now and runs around exploring everything. See how he's trying to get down and away from me! Abby actually took this picture!

Name calling :)

2010-02-19T13:34:00.002-05:00

So McAlister figured out how to say Abby...sort of. It's more like Ab-bye which is really cute!!

It's been "Snow" exciting around here!

2010-02-19T13:07:00.005-05:00

First we had an ice storm the last weekend in January and then finally a nice snow last weekend. It was the best kind of snow...played in it for a day and then it was gone!

McAlister wants to feed himself...wish he'd bathe himself afterwards also!

We've had quite a few bugs and colds run thru our house the past month. Lots of days cooped up inside! We're ready for spring!

January Fly By

2010-01-21T15:05:00.003-05:00

Has your January been flying by? Ours seems to be. 2010 has been great so far. Highlights: Stephen and I were baptized at our church! Our community group started back and our church is tackling fear and freedom in personal finances. We haven't had any snow, but ice skating on plastic bags in the house is super fun! Abby has learned to fix everyone's hair. Playgroup days make being stuck inside fun. Recently we've had some spring weather teasing...I'm ready for it to stick around! I'm mostly attempting to relish the days as they seem to fly by...

Christmas Highlights!

2009-12-29T22:00:00.003-05:00

We had a very Merry Christmas and got to see family throughout the weekend. It was a fun December b/c of Abby being so interested in the real Christmas story. Here she is being Mary, complete with "Mary cape," donkey, and baby Jesus (her pink bunny).

This pic was taken after the Christmas Eve service...it was standing room only by the time we got there!

The Jesse Tree we enjoyed doing each night...the ornaments and devotions were a great way to focus on Jesus.

She REALLY got excited about her stocking, especially the princess chapsticks!

Christmas day family pic!

This gift from Meme & Poppy was for McAlister, but it was a big hit with both kids. I wanted to throw the singing, rolling, rocking pony out the door after awhile! I do like it though Mom & Dad!!

Special K knows we have a princess on our hands. This dress actually has battery powered twinkling in it!

This was McAlister's favorite thing to do with his presents. Boxes and paper were really all he needed.

My favorite gift of the year: A collage of my baby girl playing dress up with Special K's hats during our last visit to WV. I didn't even know the pics were taken. Love it!

Hope you and yours had a great Christmas!! And have a Happy New Year!

Happy Birthday to Jesus!!! Merry Christmas to ALL!!!

2009-12-24T11:53:00.007-05:00

Some of the things we've been up to...visiting Hollywild Zoo's Light Safari for the first time, making cookies with friends, decorating a gingerbread house, making a birthday cake for Jesus, waiting with anticipation for present opening...oh the fun of Christmas!! Hope you and yours have a very Merry Christmas. Jesus is Lord!

1 year old baby boy!

2009-12-13T21:14:00.004-05:00

I can't believe how fast a year has gone by! What joy fills our hearts and home because of this little boy's life. And what a sweet reminder of the joy that comes because of Jesus' life during this Christmas season. Here are just a few pics from the little party. He loved the cake, but wasn't too messy with it. The next morning he saw it in the cake carrier, pointed and said more, so it must have been good! I love his enthusiasm for food (I know where he gets that!) I love how he plays with his sister. I love how he wants his paci and horsey when he's tired. I love his smile and squealing laughter. I love that he sleeps well. I love his snuggles. There is so much to love! Most of all I love that God let me have him as my little boy.

I love this pic below! I'm not usually in the back seat, but I caught this on camera finally. They frequently like to reach over and touch each other in the car. So sweet!

Recent goings-on...

2009-12-09T15:39:00.004-05:00

Cotton Candy playgroup! One of my friends parents cleaned out their attic and their super fun cotton candy maker still worked. The kids LOVED it...and so did I!! Aren't they so cute!

Abby's been letting me finally do some braids in her hair! I love her hair out of her face!

Christmas tree selection wasn't glamorous this year, just went and picked one out at a local nursery. Abby wasn't excited about taking a picture until she was in front of the one with a PINK ribbon on it...go figure. And she had a blast decorating also. We did that part after McAlister went to bed. But don't worry, he hasn't missed out on much because almost daily we redecorate the lower part of the tree!

Hey there cute little almost one year old!! Walking like a pro now!

What a sweet little dance class opportunity we've had. A friend in our church is teaching from her home and yesterday we got to watch. I thought Abby would clam up, but she did it all and seems to love it.

Just a few new faves!

2009-11-28T21:11:00.003-05:00

I didn't take a single picture on my camera during Thanksgiving, but Special K snapped a few great ones while she was here. Just thought I'd share. Hope you and yours enjoyed a wonderful holiday!

McAlister's 1st Steps

2009-11-17T20:53:00.002-05:00

Fast-paced Fall

2009-11-12T20:33:00.004-05:00

October really did fly by and now November is speeding along as we are only 2 weeks from Thanksgiving. I am so thankful to enjoy even the seemingly fleeting moments with my favorite people. I love my husband and my kids and am so thankful to experience life with them. Here are just a few pics from the fall fun so far.

She came up with her own costume this year...ballerina princess fairy or something like that...notice the fun shoes!

He got to be squeezed into her old size 9 month cow costume...I must say he's a cute little squeezed cow

One afternoon the Good Year blimp flew over our house!

I just like this one of them playing with their shadows

She'd wear my old school ET shirt, but her finger pointing with attitude isn't quite ET-ish!!

Family tree at the reunion!! Pretty large family line I was grafted into!

Meeting Abraham!!

2009-10-19T15:24:00.002-04:00

Sarah & Amos had their precious little boy a week ago...Abraham Jerman Disasa. We finally got to meet him yesterday!! It was a whirlwind visit, but we got to see Stephen's whole family...which made for a great photo! Holding little Abraham was so sweet. It's so hard for me to remember that mine were that tiny not too long ago. Welcome to the family Abraham!!

Rainy day activities

2009-10-12T16:07:00.002-04:00

These weren't my choice of rainy day fun activities. I was on the computer for a few minutes and found them doing this...

What? Who me? It's totally safe to play with plastic bags Mom!

"Look at my rainbow!" Abby exclaims.

10 months old!

2009-10-12T15:56:00.003-04:00

The teddy bear pics are still not working out now that he's mobile. He thinks it's really funny for me to keep tackling him to try to get the perfect pic! He is pulling up constantly, cruising a little along the couch, loves opening and closing doors, loves to eat, still no teeth, says mama and doggie (Stephen thinks he's saying daddy!), and loves Abby so much. He's a little on the small side now, 6th %ile for weight. I guess being on the move is using up those calories! Can't believe he'll be having his 1st birthday soon!

Sibling battles already! Right now they are funny! Look at his tongue...it's always out in concentration mode!

Nivens Farm Fall Fun (3 Fs!)

2009-10-12T15:51:00.002-04:00

It was so fun to take both kids this year...last year Abby didn't fit too well on my lap! A hayride, corn maze, pumpkins, stinky farm animals, unique playground, picnic lunch...it was great! Just a few fun pics...

3 and a 1/2 years big!

2009-09-15T23:47:00.004-04:00

My first baby is 3.5 tomorrow! Wow, we're on our way to 4 really fast. She is so funny. We have days where we wonder what planet she dropped from, but mostly she is a joy to be around. She recently had a sleepover with a friend...and it actually went well or let's say it could have gone worse! She adores McAlister, unless he's in her toys or getting too much of my attention. She really likes to play outside anytime it rains. Happy 1/2 birthday baby girl!

9 months old!!

2009-09-15T23:37:00.003-04:00

So this photo shoot is the first one with the teddy bear that did not go well. That's what happens with mobility I guess. I should have opted for these progressive pics to be in a chair rather than lying down...lesson learned. He was much happier when standing! 9 months have flown by. He's been out as long as he was in now! We love him so much and enjoy watching him learn about life. He LOVES his big sister, loves to eat, sleeps pretty well, crawls and pulls up too well for my liking yet (b/c it seems like toilets are just the right size for pulling up on--gross!), is verbally loud (gagaga and mamamama can reach high volumes!), and really enjoys a good laugh!!

Sky Top apple picking days again!

2009-09-08T21:59:00.003-04:00

Mmmmm...mmmmm...good! The apples this year are so delicious! My parents were in town for Labor Day weekend and we enjoyed a morning of picking, eating, and picnicking once again. McAlister loved his first Sky Top trip and his first apple. And we'll all be enjoying them for awhile now since we brought home so many. I look forward to my apple or two each day! Stephen asked me if I'm trying to keep him away?!! Heehee!

Cute little boy

2009-09-08T21:52:00.003-04:00

He seriously melts my heart with his sweet little face, his crawling and pulling up on things and his sticky, food smeared hair.

3K

2009-09-08T21:45:00.005-04:00

Abby is officially in 3K now...2 days a week. I can hardly believe she's old enough and yet some days I feel like she's been a part of my life forever. She seems to be enjoying Ms. Anne's class so far. She's excited about the toys, the crafts, the snacks, the playground, etc. It's weird to realize that other people can influence her life and her little mind. All her 3.5 years of life I've attempted to shield her from things I guess. It's the first of many letting go episodes...

Let the 1st day of school picture taking eye rolling begin!

Our little singer

2009-08-11T16:26:00.003-04:00

This is a video from back in March, but I just now loaded it from our older digital camera we hardly use anymore. Abby loves learning the songs that Daddy practices for church. I think she sounds really cute and sweet...until she burps...but she keeps right on singing! Pretty good pitch also...and I know she does not get that from me!

8 months old!

2009-08-11T16:13:00.003-04:00

Can't believe McAlister is already 8 months old...and on the MOVE!! Watch out! I have to keep my floors cleaner now! He's crawling a lot sooner than Abby did. He really is so cute and mostly loves to laugh at his big sister. Toys are becoming more exciting to him...or at least to his mouth. Gaga and mama are the most frequent sounds he makes...besides fussing sounds! Still waiting on teeth. I thought the bottoms were on their way, but they haven't popped up yet. We're enjoying watching his personality come out now. He is definitely a mommma's boy and gets pretty upset whenever I exit the room. Hope you enjoy the video!

Raleigh...fun times!

2009-08-11T16:00:00.005-04:00

I survived my first solo car trip with 2 kids...all the way to Raleigh. I know 4.5 hours doesn't seem like a long trip...but it was! They actually did really well though...do I love portable DVD players...yes I do!! And thankfully McAlister is a car sleeper unlike the one who will remain nameless. Once we were there we had so much fun doing all kinds of family bonding. Old school Pullen Park was a fun outing with Aunt Nana and the Marbles Children's Museum was really neat for Abby. Thank you to my family for a fun, memorable trip!

Peachy Keen

2009-07-22T21:52:00.003-04:00

I'd never been peach picking...until today! Thanks to some spontaneous friends this morning, Abby, McAlister and I had a great time picking peaches (the contenders variety is what I think the peach lady told us) and having a picnic, complete with ants! Summer in the south...nothing finer!

We always attempt a torture group picture (notice the 2 handsome fellas in the back who are so done with all this!)

McAlister already laughing with other dudes!

Special K photo session

2009-07-02T20:18:00.004-04:00

Yay! Some wonderful outdoor pics of my kids...thanks to my mother-in-law who was in town this week and provided the photography skills and the outfits!! We ended up getting some decent ones don't you think?

Some new faves...

2009-06-23T22:20:00.002-04:00

Just a few new pics from the beach that I really like of the kids.

He can put his paci in by himself, but it often ends up upside down...but he doesn't mind!

Beach week highlights

2009-06-23T21:57:00.004-04:00

Aside from little sleep, our trip to Edisto Island with my parents and my sister & bro-in-law was really fun. Abby, who hadn't been to the beach since she was one, declared before we arrived that she would not swim in the ocean. By the end of day 1 we couldn't get her out! The only mishaps were a few shell cuts on her toe and one nightmare about "trabs" in her bed. McAlister had a different day one experience. He was NOT a beach fan at all. We had him smothered in sunscreen, under a nice borrowed umbrella, surrounded by toys...but he didn't care. I guess it was too hot, too bright, too much for him. But his 1st experience in a pool, which felt like his bathwater, was a hit! I love seeing my kids experience new things. The joy on Abby's face as she ran thru the sand, jumped the waves, and heard the words "we'll come back tomorrow," was worth the lack of sleep. Thanks Mom & Dad for graciously hosting us! We'll come back anytime!

this is the face of a beach hater

the only halfway decent family pic we got...b/c i'm sparing you all the one of us in our swimsuits!!

6 months old!

2009-06-12T21:05:00.004-04:00

Cannot believe that half a year has gone by already. It's truly been a blur...likely due to the poor sleep I've been getting! McAlister has stolen our hearts all over again...so you CAN love more than one kid even though it didn't seem possible! He's at such a fun age of beginning to sit and play with toys more. He LOVES his solid food so much. Abby is still the one who makes him laugh the most. He's intrigued by the dogs from afar, but panics if you put him eye level with one! We keep wondering who he really looks like so I included some pics of Abby at 6 months. We just love this little guy! And yes, we still call him the full 4 syllables of McAlister!

just a few of the babes

2009-06-03T19:41:00.002-04:00

We were at Stephen's office whatever day this was and someone said "awww they match today!" So I attempted a photo session and these are my new faves!

Downtown Memorial Day Fun!

2009-06-03T19:33:00.003-04:00

We love downtown Greenville! Now that we moved farther away to suburbia we don't get to wander around the Reedy River Falls area as much as we used to. But we did enjoy the usual spots when my parents came to visit.

Now this picture is not of a downtown attraction, but it could be! My parents very thoughtfully brought Abby some of my old dance costumes (yes, they still had them...that's another story!). So our rough and tough girl has been up to her usual activities all while wearing a costume or a princess dress (she's all into that now, too!). It's hilarious!

What a difference a year makes...

2009-06-03T16:32:00.005-04:00

My parents were visiting during Memorial Day weekend so we headed downtown for a walk and some pictures, b/c it's hard to get a family photo! So we took one in the same place as last year. It's always fun to look back and see the changes in life, our family, even the hydrangea bush. We're obviously so thankful that McAlister is part of our family now. One thing that stayed the same is Abby's dress...same one, but my how much she's changed! The one thing that stayed the same that actually matters the most in our lives is God. We're so thankful for our Lord & Savior, the true constant. We're being challenged daily to see if we truly place all our trust in him and on him. I'm so thankful he loves me despite of me.

It's strawberry time again!

2009-05-16T21:45:00.002-04:00

Yes, we ate our whole basket of strawberries in 3 days!! I miss them and wish we had gone ahead and picked the 2 baskets. Oh well! Playgroup and some more buddies met for our 2nd annual berry pickin' or actually just eating them instead of picking...which is why I didn't end up with 2 baskets. It's so fun to watch these munchkins together. And I was thankful we went earlier in the season this year so it wasn't too hot. I should go again...and not eat 40 strawberries in a day. I mean they are seriously like candy when they're hot off the field.

Avery & Abby must be wondering where the strawberry fields forever are?

5 months old = yummy mush trial

2009-05-16T21:38:00.003-04:00

We truly can't believe how quickly 5 months have gone by! McAlister is so much fun laughing and cooing...and now eating rice cereal. He's loving his intro to "real" food if that stuff can be called real. Abby is still so sweet to him. It's my favorite part of the day to see them interact. He found his feet this week and is starting to attempt to scoot around the floor by pulling his knees under him and pushing his feet. I do not want an early crawler however b/c I'm not ready to keep my floors that clean yet!

1st trip with 2 kids!

2009-05-16T21:24:00.003-04:00

So I need a t-shirt that reads: "I survived my first trip with 2 kids...barely!" J/K! Although it would have been nice if we remembered that our stroller and the baby bjorn was in the trunk of our other car...oops! It was really a great trip to Lake Lure with our families. We hiked Chimney Rock, took a pontoon boat for a tour of the lake I'd love to live on, and enjoyed the cooler weather. Abby was such a ham striking a ton of poses in front of the waterfall. She loves to hike!

Mother's Day with my 2 precious ones! What an honor!

Our Parkside nuts!

Recent stuff

2009-04-21T22:09:00.004-04:00

We are pretty tired around this household, but we're enjoying life and thankful for spring weather! Here's some recent fun:

Fairy Godmother Special K made Abby a princess dress and mailed it to her. Thank goodness it's so beautiful b/c I better get used to seeing it all day, every day!

This is what I found while checking on Abby during dinner preparation the other night...playing in the weeding container...whatever works!

Our driveway is now paved! They left some equipment overnight and you know we had to try it out!

My 3 favorite people...finally a great pic of them with there DaddyO! I think McAlister is tiring of my picture taking already!

4 months old!

2009-04-12T21:42:00.003-04:00

Wow! People told me that the 2nd and subsequent children are born and then it's a blur because time flies so quickly. I believe it! And my lack of scrapbooking believes it! McAlister is 4 months old and is so much fun. We love his jolly little laugh and watching him figure out how some toys work. He's just recently rolled over a few times so that means I can't put him up high anymore. Many people wonder about how the sleeping is going...well not so great actually but we're about to really work on that = let him cry it out. My nerves don't do great with this, but my body will thank me when I am able to get a better night's rest!

I saw this precious photo idea recently and so we attempted it, but he kept rolling over and did not enjoy such a cold, hard surface :)

Easter highlights

2009-04-12T21:37:00.004-04:00

Christ is Risen!!! I am so grateful for my Lord & Savior. He's changed my life and thankfully continues to mold me daily. This year I really enjoyed Abby learning more about the most important story ever. She loved the crafts and songs from church over the past month. It's so cute to hear her say Jerusalem and Christ is alive. Here are a few pics of our Easter related fun. We didn't actually get a family pic before church...oh well!

Cuties!

2009-03-31T22:11:00.004-04:00

Since most people check the blog for the pics, here are a few of my recent faves:)

Tummy time is going a little better for Mr. Cutie

LOVE that smile...and those rolls!

She discovered Daddy's CD from many years ago and was so excited

Doesn't she look so mod and techy cool?!

The hat's a tad big, but he didn't complain at all...unlike his sister who did not prefer hats and let us know it (see last picture!)

Officially dedicated!

2009-03-31T22:04:00.004-04:00

What a great weekend with our family and friends. We celebrated Abby's birthday...again! And we had a dedication at church for McAlister with our dear playgroup friends. It was a great time of reminding us that our children are not our own. God has richly blessed us with the privilege of raising them and we want to honor Him in our parenting. It was so nice to be surrounded by the prayers, love, and support of some special people in our lives. I know that their prayers and love are always there, but it was great to have such a tangible reminder during the dedication. And I dearly love my playgroup mommy friends and their precious children.

Yes, McAlister is wearing the family baptismal gown...his daddy and granddaddy who share his name also wore the same one!

Nieces & Nephews

2009-03-26T10:54:00.003-04:00

Here are Grant & Blythe. So far they are our only niece & nephew...and they are really cute and really sweet aren't they?!!

Here are Amos and Sarah holding McAlister....but soon they'll be holding their own baby!! Will it be a niece or a nephew?? We're so excited to meet him or her in October!! Congrats you all!! We love you!

And one day I hope to have another big announcement about Malana & Erik...but we'll give them a few years since they've only been married less than a year!!

Playgroup birthday party photo session torture!

2009-03-16T21:11:00.003-04:00

I love my playgroup! And we love our kids. But we really like to torture them with attempting group photos. This was the 1st get together of everyone since the 3 new babies were born. Abby loved the attention (and more cupcakes!). Her lunch menu request was hot dogs and french fries, which we never make at home, but since it was her birthday I obliged. What a great day celebrating a truly great kid, except at naptime, but I digress...

Where's Avery? She was not a fan of the head shot!

Happy 3rd Birthday!!

2009-03-16T20:58:00.002-04:00

Can't believe how fast another year has gone by!! Abby is all little girl now...no baby left :( We enjoyed a little family time before Daddy went to work this morning...and yes even let her have a cupcake after breakfast...don't tell our pediatrician!!

She got so excited about her door decorations!

Yes, Dora is our new constant topic of conversation and show request

Who's seriously intent on devouring that cupcake at 7:30 in the morning?!!

3 months old!

2009-03-16T20:55:00.003-04:00

I have a lot of 3s in my life right now. McAlister is now 3 months old and Abby is 3 years old...and of course I'm in my early 3s! Ha! Abby LOVES to be photographed with him. It's so much fun to see them interact!

Found!!

2009-03-10T21:30:00.002-04:00

I bet it feels so good to be found. We found Sadie this afternoon and it has been a great reunion. We posted two signs and a couple of hours later someone actually called us and said they'd been seeing her the past week around their home. We went to try to get her. We called her name and she came running to us. She was very skinny, dirty, and tired...so now she's fed, bathed, and sleeping in her bed. Who knows what she's been up to and what she's gone thru the past week and a half. We'll be retraining her on the invisible fence that's for sure!

Being found...it reminds me of some verses I was reading recently for a Bible study. Matthew 18:10-14 is about how God is our shepherd and how he cares so much about finding the lost sheep. He is so happy when a lost one is found. I am so glad I am found!

Being brushed before bathtime today...see how skinny she is!

Zoo fun!

2009-03-10T21:19:00.003-04:00

Since the weather is so beautiful and warm we met our friends (the other Abby!) at the zoo today. This was McAlister's 1st time...he really enjoyed sleeping in the stroller for most of it, but at least it was captured on camera! I've been doing a bad job taking pics of him compared to the million we have of Abby. Greenville's zoo is such an ideal morning outing that's easy to enjoy with in its entirety with young kids. We used to live so close to the zoo, but now it's really an outing! Abby really loved getting out of the house! We are so excited for spring weather so we can do more now that McAlister's older and full of vaccines!!

Let the 3 year old partying begin!

2009-03-10T21:15:00.003-04:00

This past weekend my sis and bro-in-law came to visit. I still consider them the cute little newlyweds!! They kicked off the big upcoming 3rd birthday and gave Abby some early gifts. We had fun hanging out...wish it could have been longer than a weekend.

Sadie

2009-03-01T20:47:00.002-05:00

Sadie is the dog on the right. She's some kind of foxhound we rescued in WV over 6 years ago. She has not responded great to the recent move, but she's always been really skittish and easily scared. Well tonight when let out to go potty she ended up taking off thru the invisible fence. Stephen drove the car after her and called to her. She wouldn't come to him and ran off like it was a game. She doesn't know her way around this area we just moved to. So we don't know what will happen. She has an ID tag, but no one will be able to catch her to read it!! It's going to be below freezing the next few nights. We're hopeful she'll find her way back to us. So while we enjoyed the snow, we're sad tonight b/c a part of our family is missing.

Night sledding!

2009-03-01T20:43:00.002-05:00

Yay! I had hoped we'd get some snow this winter so Abby could play in it. She was a little timid in it last year, but not this year. As soon as we showed it to her she was asking to go out. So at 6:30pm we were playing in the snow. I filmed the trashbag sledding adventures, but didn't get a picture. Here are the ones I took beforehand. Now there is about 4 inches already on the ground and it is truly beautiful...a neat display of God's creativity.

Me & My Kids!

2009-03-01T20:34:00.002-05:00

We all finally went back to church today as a family. I've really missed it...just being able to worship corporately, hear great teaching, and see all my friends. It was so nice to be back. Here's a pic before we left this morning. I just thought my kids were too cute not to take a picture of them!

McAlister enjoying his first interactive toy

Recent tree climbing fun...Abby found a tree she calls "baby tree" that's perfect climbing size for her at the new house

The Move is sort of over...

2009-02-18T20:04:00.002-05:00

It's official! We moved! We will be unpacking forever it seems, but we're here. It's weird to all of a sudden be living somewhere else. I've moved before, but this one seems to be so strange. Maybe it's because my home is where I "work" everyday so I'm very attached to it. I was comfortable there, knew where everything was, had a routine, etc. I think that like any other loss in life, you grieve things for a bit of time. There are things I do miss about our old house, but this new place is quickly becoming home...b/c like someone told me, home is where the people I love are...and I do love my hubby and kiddos!

The swingset came along to the new house and with the beautiful 70 degree weather we were able to enjoy it already.

McAlister's 1st swinging experience...he seemed to enjoy the wind in his hair...oh wait...actually his hair is finally growing back in now

2 months old

2009-02-18T19:59:00.002-05:00

The Big Mac (no, we still haven't shortened his name...i'm just being silly!) is actually BIG! At his 2 month visit he weighed 11.5lbs. Abby never had chunky thighs like McAlister's. He's too cute these days...wanting to smile and talk to anyone in view. The move has kept us busy and I hope that now I can settle in and enjoy him as he grows b/c the past 2 months have zoomed by.

Love my playgroup!

2009-02-09T14:41:00.002-05:00

Last week was my first outdoor playgroup adventure with both kids. Thankfully Lindsey captures all our fun on her camera so I just steal the pics from her website!! We met at a fun playground to let them get their energy out and then enjoyed a windy picnic lunch. It was so nice to take a break from packing and get outside. It was even nicer to see my "fabulous" friends...we LOVE our playgroup!!

Packing up a HOME....

2009-02-07T19:25:00.003-05:00

No blogging recently due to the immense amount of packing going on at our house. We move in 3 days and I'd say we're mostly done packing...yay! I've been so consumed with the preparations and packing phase that I haven't really thought about how I feel about it. Mixed emotions for sure. The house we are currently in has sold...God is good! But this is the first house Stephen and I bought together...and it is our home! This is the home we've brought 2 babies home to. This is the home we know. We are all ready to finally be settled into the new house...and it will become home over time. I'll post pics soon of the new place. If I lose a few more pounds during this packing phase maybe Stephen will re-lift me over the threshold!! Hahaha!

Do they look alike?

2009-01-28T15:12:00.002-05:00

In an effort to answer everyone's #1 question "Does McAlister look like Abby when she was little?"...I think the answer is yes...at certain times and from certain angles. So I found a few pics of Abby from around the same age (the baldness gave it away...they definitely both share that phenomenon of hair loss!)

McAlister snoozing
Abby snoozing

Let me know what you think?! We can definitely tell that they are related, but she seemed more delicate and he seems more dude-like...but maybe it's because we knew she was a girl and he's a boy! As for the #2 question of "Does he look more like Stephen or Taryn?"...we have no idea right now!

Abby with paci
McAlister with paci

www.osbornmission.com

2009-01-25T22:20:00.005-05:00

We have some amazing friends from church who are heading to Papua New Guinea in just a couple months for a lifetime of mission work. We are amazed, humbled, challenged and encouraged by their answer to God's call on their life. Check out their website to learn more about them, see pics of their adorable daughters and find out how you can join their support team. We will miss them, but are totally excited to see how God will work thru them in the remote tribe that will be blessed by their absence among our church body. Join me in praying for them as they finish support raising and set out on their 20+ year commitment to serve in Papua New Guinea.

www.osbornmission.com

Recent playdate with Elizabeth and daughters Belle and Lucy

6 weeks old!

2009-01-21T22:38:00.004-05:00

People have told me time flies by with the 2nd child even faster than the 1st one. That is so true! McAlister is already 6 weeks old and smiling like such a big boy! And he's definitely getting bigger. He was 8lbs 14ozs last week, so he's probably over 9lbs now. Abby continues to be so nurturing with him...it's really very cute to watch him smile at her. I'm sure she'll be the one to bring about the first giggle from him. I look at both of them and thank God for the miracle of life and for allowing us to participate in His creation. What a privilege to serve as parents. This weekend we plan to attend a parenting conference at our church. I can't wait to be encouraged and challenged about the intentionality of our parenting. Maybe I'll have some blogworthy aha moments to share!

We have 2 kids!!

2009-01-11T13:03:00.004-05:00

No, it hasn't taken me a whole month to realize this...or maybe it has! Nonetheless, I have 2 kids and I dearly love them. People were right about your heart just growing bigger to love 2 kids, not dividing. They are so sweet together (right now!). Abby has started to ask to hold him now. We had grandparents here so long giving her such great attention and she had a cold when he was first born so she never asked to hold him. I love seeing them together and can't wait to watch their relationship develop. Siblings are such a blessing. I didn't grasp that growing up...but I dearly love my sister (shout out to Malana!!).

A typical morning!

Love this one!

He was actually smiling, although it looks like he's in distress!

Smile!!

2009-01-11T12:57:00.002-05:00

Here are just a few recent favorite pics of McAlister. He's smiling and cooing some and we're loving it of course. He really likes to smile at Abby!! He's also balding now so he looks like a little old man with no hair and no teeth, but still pretty cute I think!

1 month old

2009-01-11T12:52:00.002-05:00

I totally copied this idea from a few friends who have done this with their children. I plan to try to remember to do it on the 11th of each month during this 1st year. We'll see how my memory does!! Can't believe it's already been a whole month.

Christmas Day...and Happy New Year!!

2009-01-02T15:27:00.005-05:00

Better late than never, but here are some pics from our Christmas Day. Finally got a decent family picture...you can consider this your Merry Christmas card since we never got those sent this year!! We had just our family of 4 for Christmas morning. Abby loved her little makeup center from Santa and has been playing dress up ever since. She loved opening stockings and presents. Meme & Poppy came later on that day to celebrate with us. They are still here ringing in the new year with us...and we appreciate all the help!! Hope you all had a very happy new year!! We look forward to all that awaits us in 2009!

McAlister turned 2 weeks old on Christmas Day...and enjoys swinging!

McAlister faves taken by Special K

2008-12-24T21:33:00.002-05:00

3 generations of Stephen McAlister Jones!!

Cupcakes for Jesus!

2008-12-24T21:26:00.004-05:00

I know a great pediatrician...and he told me not to take the baby out on Christmas Eve even though I really wanted to! So we made cupcakes for Jesus' birthday and read thru the Christmas story after bathtime. It was a great family night...and I guess it is good to start thinking about what we want "our" traditions to be as a family. I am thankful to be able to celebrate such a wonderful, faith building holiday with my family.