The Madewell Family

Not the reaction I was hoping for!

2012-01-24T19:21:00.002-06:00

I have learned, since having kids, that nothing goes the way you anticipate! Cole loves the bath and I figured he would love a good bubble bath, but like his brother, he HATED his 1st bubble bath! He was absolutely TERRIFIED. He went crazy trying to get out of the bath!

As a matter of fact, the next night he heard the tub running and immediately started screaming! Clearly they didn't get this from their Mama, because you can find me in a bubble bath at least 5 nights a week! Oh well.. maybe next time!

And We're Off!

2012-01-11T20:30:00.001-06:00

On Sunday, this happened!

And needless to say he's only getting faster and nosier!

Splish Splash

2012-01-08T17:04:00.001-06:00

This is a nightly ritual at our house, although a tad messy it makes me laugh! I love my boys and so glad they have each other. I pray every day that they remain close!

9 mths and Nosey!

2012-01-02T19:39:00.005-06:00

Can you help but smile at this face? Cole Miller is now 9 months old, this is hard for me to swallow... he's 3 months from being 1.. thats crazy! He has really changed the past month, he's gained 3 lbs, crawls... well scoot/slides backwards, tries to pull up on things and stand alone, and have I mentioned he's SUPER NOSEY. WOW....he cranes his neck at everything, if he's within reach he grabs it, if there's a crumb he finds etc.
He is really in to eating too. He doesn't really want his baby food, he wants what Momma has! Despite his 2 teeth he thinks he can eat anything!

He can say: Mama, Dada, Bubba (Grant), and ball

Even though he's not fully crawling he finds a way to get to what he wants, he gets on his stomach and slides or he just turns around as far as he can and reaches, he is one limber little dude! I swear in another life he'd be an Owl because he tries so hard to turn his neck completely around, again I say, he's NOSEY!
These next few pictures kill me! I noticed he had been doing this a lot....
But I thought he was just trying to get something off of the coffee table. But later that morning we were in Grants room playing trains and I got up to get something, turned around and found this..
I freaked out! I am 99% sure that Grant didn't pull up until he was completely crawling. Everyone keeps teasing me saying he'll walk before he crawls but I sure hope that is not the case!

Something else he does... what I like to call the "tee-pee" stance! Seriuosly he tries to stand up. He'll move his hands and try to raise his body up. Sheesh.. Im gonna have my hands full.
And.. he is totally crazy about this dude..
He LOVES Grant and the feeling is mutual! Grant smothers him (a little to much sometimes!) with love and every time Cole sees him coming he squeals and kicks his little legs!
Our afternoons usually consist of this.. playing cars in the hall!

And for my last picture... he's straight up BUSTED. Little stinker opened the box of wipes and pulled out half of them. I have a feeling once he's seriously mobile.. he's gonna keep me BUSY!

I love my little Nosey Rosey! (PS. I have NO idea why this turned blue.. weird)

Santa came!

2012-01-01T12:51:00.002-06:00

The boys must have been good this year because Santa left a pile of goodies! And of course we have proof that he was here...
He tried all of our cookies!
We started the morning off in our matching Christmas pjs... but...
after a leaky diaper and Grant spotting the new batman pjs our attire quickly changed!

We had a great Christmas morning! Each year it gets better and better! So thankful for my beautiful family and for what Christmas is all about!

Christmas Eve

2011-12-29T08:18:00.004-06:00

Every year on Christmas Eve we go to Cookeville to spend the day/evening with Franklin's family. We start off by going to his Moms house and she always has a spread of delicious appetizers!

While we were there the boys got good time in with Grandma and Aunt Rachel and Uncle Sam!

Sam and Ron are both in bands and love to play music. I'm not usually one that is really "in" to music, but seeing Grant dive right in with Uncle Sam was very funny! He loved playing the drums and bobbing his head, so funny! His version of Rudolf was a tad different from what I've heard! hahaha!

After eating, opening a few gifts, and visiting we headed over to Grandpa Frank's house! He was so excited to see the boys and Grant squealed with excitement when we got there because Frank had tons of lights and inflatables put up!

We had a nice visit at both places! The boys crashed on the way home, good thing too because Santa still had to come ;) More on that later!

Christmas at Buddy's

2011-12-22T12:23:00.007-06:00

Last Saturday we went to Buddy and Grandaddy's for Christmas and it was so much fun! The kids were beyond excited because after the party the 3 older ones were gonna have a "Boy Party" and eat pizza and spend the night!

We had a delicious lunch and then we just sat around visiting and opening gifts, it was a great time!

After lunch Little Tol had an accident and spilled his apple juice on his clothes and so he decided to put on his pi's. Well, of course Grant had to put on his pi's too, which was fine. But after a while we noticed the boys calling each other names and wearing hats and they told us their names were "Zippy and Twinkle" and they were elves and we couldn't talk to them or touch them or they'd lose their magical powers! (Ring a bell?? Elf on the Shelf!). Yates decided he'd rather sit with Grandaddy and eat!
Zippy
Twinkle
Zippy and Twinkle in action! They were also on a mission to find Uncle Tol, he was hiding!
BUSTED!

Buddy and Grandaddy got Grant and Cole a play kitchen, they LOVE IT!

I absolutely love this picture because Cole is not the type of baby that just goes to sleep in your arms, he prefers to be put down. I looked over and found this... so precious!
Thanks Buddy and Grandaddy for a wonderful Christmas party!

Papa's and Opryland

2011-12-19T09:20:00.009-06:00

A few weekends ago the boys and I went and stayed at Papa and Deedee's because Franklin was out of town. Every year Dad takes pictures of all the boys (cousins) but being that there's four of them its a little bit harder. So while we were there Dad decided to try and take some of my boys. It was really hard.. there are only one or two good ones of them together... when one would smile the other one would act goofy! Oh well, thats the name of the game! Here are some pics from "the shoot"!

These are the matching pjs I made for the boys!

Then on last Tuesday we met at Opryland Hotel and went to see the ICE and the Lights! It was our first year to see the Ice and it was awesome, but when they say its 0 degrees in there you better believe them! Kelly and I dressed our boys for a blizzard, they could hardly move!

It was amazing that these sculptures were made of Ice.. I don't know how they do it!
They had slides you could go down and the boys went wild. When Grant went down the first time he didn't realize to hold your feet up and he he got stuck. I bet his little butt was cold because his parka got stuck behind him!

The slides were FAST and fun!

After the ICE we went to the Hotel to warm up and get some burgers!

All of the kids were so good and we enjoyed being with our family!

Thanks Papa and DeeDee for carrying on this tradition! I can remember going as a child and I love sharing it with my babies!
And thanks to Aunt Kelly for carrying Cole, he couldn't take any more and didn't want in his stroller! I don't blame him.

Last Day of School...

2011-12-15T19:53:00.004-06:00

Today was Grant's last day of school until Jan. 10th and to end the fall 2011 semester they had a Christmas program. He was so excited to see us this year, he was saying "there's my Daddy, there's my Daddy". I don't know how the teachers managed to do it but they got two of the 3 year old classes to stand on their assigned piece of tape and sing two songs! Grant was in the very back row because despite being one of the youngest, he's one of the tallest! He sang the first song, but the 2nd song he didn't care about. He just stuck out his tongue! Oh well.. it was funny and we were so very proud of him.
I thought it was so sweet seeing them walk out in a single line with the shirts they made with their handprints!

We loved seeing our sweet boy "preform" today and I love seeing how much he's changed and grown since last years Christmas program!(http://halliemadewell.blogspot.com/2010/12/thursday-was-grants-christmas-party-at.html)

We love you Grant!

Almost there!

2011-12-12T15:34:00.002-06:00

M sweet little Cole is going to crawl any day now. Im so proud of him but Lord have mercy on me, because he is in to EVERYTHING. If he's on my hip and its in reaching distance, you better believe he's gonna grab it. If there is a crumb (or anything for that matter) on the floor he gets it and it goes straight to the mouth. Im hoping he doesn't crawl until after our Christmas tree is down but I don't know if thats gonna happen. Im enjoying my last few days of being able to sit him down and know he won't be too far from where I've left him! Here he is in action trying to take off!

O Christmas Tree

2011-12-08T16:22:00.006-06:00

My Mom came over on Monday to help me put up my Christmas tree. Having two kids, its hard to do by myself. She also got us a new 9 ft tree this year and I was super duper excited! Grant saw the ladders and all of the ornaments and his little eyes lit up! The first thing he wanted to do was put the star on top!
He got the small ladder and and found a spot that was just for him to decorate and he loved it and was super proud of what he was doing.

He didn't venture from his little spot and was enjoying hanging all of the ornaments in that one section. Mom and I were laughing because it was driving me nuts seeing all of those cluttered ornaments but I just smiled and let him hang them, I knew I could "fix it" when he took a nap!

Even Lula Belle got in to the Christmas spirit!

Cole... oh my sweet Cole, man alive was he in to EVERYTHING.

I had to find ways to trap him and this jumparoo was short lived.. so I did what any Mom would do....

Yes.. I stuck him in the rubber maid and he LOVED IT! Grant saw how much fun he was having and got in one too, except he wanted the lid on his... dang...maybe I need to buy some spare rubber maids because this lasted a good 45 minutes!

Needless to say I got NOTHING done and my Mom got everything done! I was so happy with our decorations!
Our new tree is so tall that I couldn't even get the entire tree in the picture!
Thanks Buddy for our new beautiful tree!

8 Months

2011-12-05T12:38:00.003-06:00

It saddens me to say that my sweet sweet baby boy is 8 months old, time really does zoom by on your second baby, and it makes me sad because he's more than likely my last baby. I have really enjoyed him and this time around things have been so much easier! I am happy to say that I nursed him for 7 months, my original goal was 3 months! I am having a hard time letting go of this because it wasn't my decision, it was natures. Cole is such a wonderful, snuggly, happy baby! In the past month he has hit many milestones such as:

Starting to crawl, he gets on all 4's and reaches
Then sometimes he face plants!
* He can also get from his back to the sitting position.

* He can say: Mama, Dada, and what sounds like Bubba (I think he tries to say Brother)!

* He is very nosey - reaches and grabs any and everything in site. I think he is gonna be my rowdy kid.

* He is happy as long as someone is in the room with him, esp brother (other than when Grant is being pesky).

* He is definitely a Mama's boy, contrary to the fact that he sd "Dada" first!

* He LOVES to eat, everything but bananas!

* When riding in the car he cranes his neck to see me (see below)

He is just full of happiness and joy and I love him so much! God couldn't have blessed me with two better boys!

Happy 8 Months sweet Cole!!!!!

A trip to Gigi and Pops!

2011-12-03T13:58:00.006-06:00

We finally got to make our way up to Dayton, OH to visit Franklin's Grandparents "Gigi and Pops". This has always been one of our favorite places to visit, and Grant was especially excited this year. They haven't seen the boys since Cole was 6 weeks old, so they were dying to see them. Every year the Madewell Men go on a hunting trip, all of Franklin's Uncles, his Grandpa, and a couple of cousins meet up at a cabin.. in... well... somewhere near Cleveland I think! Anyways, while they hunt I always stay at Grandma's and we go Christmas shopping and hang around the house. Here are a bunch of pictures from our visit! We had a FANTASTIC TIME!
Notice above, Grant has his hand on Buzz. This is the ONLY toy he will not share. Now, look at the picture below and look at Grant's face! Cracks me up... he is serious about Buzz. I have a feeling as soon as Cole gets mobile (which will be any day) things are gonna get CRAZY around here.

New Christmas pjs from Gigi!

LOVE this picture of my boys!
Gigi tickling Cole

Cole looking out the window, admiring his 1st snow!
Grant looks like he's about to do something to him! Look at that face.

Uncle Jeff came over to visit... Grant couldn't let Jeff have any 1 on 1 time with Cole.

We had a great time, but like any other trip, it flew by! Can't wait to go back for another visit. We love and miss you Gigi and Pops!

Let's Go Predators!!!!!

2011-11-21T14:24:00.004-06:00

Papa G was kind enough (and brave enough) to invite us to a Predators game! Franklin and I have gone many times with Dad and loved it, and we thought Grant would too! He could barely sit through dinner, all he could think about was cotton candy!

Sure enough, as soon as we walked in there she was "THE COTTON CANDY WADY" as he sd, he ran as fast as he could!
He was very intense when choosing his bag!
The girl was kind enough to offer a picture with him! So funny.

He was very uncertain of the play penalty box!
that is, until Daddy got in!

This was his expression for the 1st 30 minutes, he was mesmerized!

We had a great time and ALMOST made it through the entire game, he was beyond goofy tired so we had to leave! The picture below is Mike Fisher, for all my friends who like Carrie Underwood, this is her husband!
Thanks Papa G, we had a GREAT TIME!

Aunt Amy and Thanksgiving at Buddy and Grandaddy's!

2011-11-16T19:24:00.008-06:00

Every fall my sister, Amy, comes in from Austin, Texas and spends a few days with us! I look forward to this time every year. We are very close and yet never get to see each other. Her roommate, Serena, came with her as well and we started out our visit by grilling and hanging out by the fire pit! Cole was so cranky that night but ended up coming around after an hour or so of being up!

Since Amy came later this year we decided to celebrate Thanksgiving early, we really miss having her on the holidays so this was treat!

Cole absolutely LOVED Serena.. he snuggled with her all day and every time he saw her, he'd reach his little arms out, so sweet!
And.. you know me, tripod and all, had to get the family shot!
Aunt Marcia and Cole. I love his hair and expression in this picture! You can tell he was in a spunky mood.

After dinner we headed out with the kids to some football, its so funny watching little kids play esp when they are a tad uncoordinated!

Here are a few more random pics from our day!

Chocolate Monsters

These next two pics crack me up. Only at a Grandma's house would you find a bunch of boys screaming in a closet with flashlights!

Cole figured out he liked sippy cups, he played with this thing for a good 30 minutes and when juice would come out, he'd just squeal!

After the party, Tol (and his family) and I hung around to be with Amy before she headed back to TX. We ordered pizza and let the kids play and watched football. Its always good to have everyone home and it just feels like old times, LOVE IT!

We had an awesome visit and I miss her so much already. Hopefully this spring I can make a trip out to see her in Austin. The next day my boys were so exhausted from Thanksgiving and from the lack of naps! I took these pictures and you can just see the exhaustion in their little eyes!

Gatlinburg

2011-11-14T08:41:00.000-06:00

Every year my Dad, Stepmom, Brother, his wife and two kids and our family all go to Gatlinburg for a family trip. This is a picture of the boys two years ago, my how times have changed! I can't believe Grant is now 3 and we have another addition to the family!

This year Grant rode up early with his Papa and DeeDee to get an extra day in with his cousins and WOW did he have fun! They started off with a ride around Gatlinburg where they saw some baby cubs! Then they went out to eat and back to the condo for some night swimming!

There were two twin beds in one room so they pulled a coffee table in the between the two beds and put the couch cushions on it to make a third bed and naturally the boys fought over who got to sleep on the coffee table, silly boys.

The next morning they packed up and drove to Cade's Cove and got to get out and run around a little bit.
I love this picture, if you click on it you can see big tears in Grant's eyes. Uncle Tol put him in the tree and Grant does NOT like to do stuff like that! But he managed to muster out a half smile anyways!
Then, I could NOT BELIEVE what they said they did next. Grant is everything BUT a dare devil. He is somewhat timid and very cautious. The other boys wanted to ride go-carts and I never in a million years dreamed Grant would ever want to ride one muchness drive one by himself! You had to be 4 to drive but they never questioned his age! He absolutely loved it! They sd he hit the rails a few times and would crash in to the side because he'd get so excited and start waving at everyone!
After he drove by himself he went on a fast track with Papa!
After Cade's Cove and go-carts they piled back in the Uncle Tol's truck. Tol and Dad sd that both boys sd they were not at all tired and then one by one they slowly passed out. This might be my new all time favorite picture of all the boys!

That afternoon Franklin, Cole and I came up just in time to watch some football and go grab a bite to eat!

We found a little dive to watch the game and grab some pizza (the best I've ever had I might add) but the problem was.. the service was TERRIBLE. It took almost 2 hours to get our food but luckily the manager was great and kept giving the boys money to "play pool"!
Cole tried hard to hang in but it didn't last long!
After the long awaited dinner we came back to the condo and put the boys to bed!
I love these next few pictures.. esp if you compare it to the first picture!

Sunday morning we started off with a delicious pancake breakfast and then we hit the Aquarium!
They had a new penguin exhibit and the entire experience was so much fun! I only posted a few of the pics.. I could really do a post just on our time there!

Is this dude not a CREEP? Its the bottom of a sawfish!

These tanks were neat.. you could crawl up under them and it made you feel like you were in the tank!

We had a great visit! Unfortunately Tol, Kelly and the boys had to go home because little Tol had school, but we sure enjoyed letting the cousins be together!
The next morning I got up and made sausage rolls.. I had an assistant!

After breakfast we got up and headed to the Applebarn, one of my faves!
Franklin and Grant's favorite part is the ice-cream store! He had his very first taste of ice cream at the Apple Barn!
So I felt it would only be fitting for me to share mine with Cole!

He LOVED IT! He would kick his little legs and twirl his hands and smile and squeal for more!

After our Applebarn stop we headed back to Gatlinburg and found a campsite that Dad and Franklin wanted to check out. We grabbed some hotdogs and buns and grilled out and let Grant check out the creek!
For some weird reason I had Grant's Handy Manny tent in my car and he had a blast "camping out"!

Cole literally sat on this blanket and played with leaves for 45 minutes, it was hilarious, he just laughed and crunched them up, all the while big brother poked his head in and out of the tent a million times!!! It was so fun watching them enjoy the beauty of nature!

After our lunch, we headed down to ... uh... um... well crap I can't think of the name of it.. its an Arts and Crafts area, but every year we stop here. There is a couple that plays music and you can sit in a rocking chair and have root beer and popcorn, so fun!
Tues morning we had to start packing up and head out but we realized we hadn't even walked the streets of Gatlinburg so we thought that might make the boys good and tired!

We had an awesome trip and Gatlinburg never gets old! Cant wait to go back next year!

Walden Farms

2011-11-03T13:03:00.008-05:00

For the past 2 years we have taken Grant to Walden Farms in Smyrna to pick out a pumpkin and just walk around the farm. We always have a great time, so we headed there last Sunday (yes, we were cutting it close!). When we got there We got us a couple of apple ciders and headed in the direction Grant wanted to go.. which was to the animals!

Sometimes Franklin and I "agree to disagree" when it comes to photos... I grew up with my Dad always having a camera, as a kid we joked that he was "Olan Mills" and so now everywhere we go I feel that need to take my camera. Franklin tells me that I need to let them play and not have the camera right on them, but I can't help it, they are so cute and I want to capture every little part of their lives. Yes, when I was a child at times it annoyed but now I wouldn't trade my Dad's photos for the world. So I snagged a few pictures of all of us and then put the camera away, happy medium, right? Anyways.. here are a few our pictures! I love Grant's face, his little smile is so genuine like he's really telling that goat something sweet!
Brother was along for the ride, smiles as always!

This is where I got camera happy.. a big ol' pile of pumpkins with no one around... OH YES, I got snap happy!

Grant LOVES holding his brother.. as you can see he's heavy to Grant (poor Cole..his britches are all kinds of riding up!).
Grant thought these little guys were hilarious!
I hope they have this next year so I can compare them!
Cole was more interested in the dirt and hay.. go figure, boys will be boys.
Feeding more animals..

There is a big OLD red tractor that sits on the farm on top of the hill, every year Grant sits on this thing for VERY long periods of time and its always a battle to get him off. He was nice enough to share with his brother this year but he still didn't want to leave and he was seriously on it for 30 minutes, Im just glad there wasn't another child wanting to get on it!

We had a great day and next year we may try out another pumpkin patch but I am so partial to this one! Happy Fall!

Trick Or Treat

2011-11-01T10:10:00.006-05:00

After naps yesterday we dressed up the kids in their costumes and decided to go downtown to the Square for some early trick or treating, then come home for some chili and then hit our neighborhood! I have to say I think the kids looked so cute in their costumes! It was SO FUN watching Grant this year, the excitement in his eyes and the things he said were priceless! Esp when he'd shoot webs at people! (see below).

I loved Cole's little costume, esp the tail behind it!
Here we are at the square, we didn't stay long because Grant was hungry and thirsty and it was very slow paced!

After supper (which was a fight, like most nights Grant didn't eat so we told him no candy), we got dressed again and headed out!

I was really surprised at Grant, he didn't want us to go to the door with him, he'd tell us to stay in the driveway and he'd run as fast as he could to the door. At each door he'd tell that person something witty and funny! The first door he sd "Trick or Treat, but I can't eat this candy because I didn't eat my supper". Thanks for ratting us out Grant! The lady at the door looked at us, and I sd "YES, he's correct" and she sd "Well maybe you can eat a piece later". I wanted to say "Lady, don't give me that look, you come and fight him every night" but I didn't, I just smiled and thanked her for the candy!

This house cracked me up, he told this guy that "He got bit by a spider and it gave him amazing powers and responsibilities" hahahah, can you tell we've read a few Spiderman books? It just goes to show you that your kids are listening even when your think they aren't!
I love this picture, you can just see the excitement on his face! By the way, when he took off his mask he'd say "I'm Peter Parker" or in Grants words "Petuh Pawkuh"

We had a great time and Grant got some serious candy, I can't believe how long he lasted, his bucket got so heavy and he could barely carry it!
Little Cole was a trooper too!
After we got home we let Grant hand out candy, he loved it! (I hate that he has red eyes in this picture, I've tried correcting it three times, oh well).
I hope everyone had a great Halloween! Hope to post later on our trip to the Pumpkin Patch!

Tuscaloosa

2011-10-31T07:56:00.007-05:00

Grant and I took a special trip together to Tuscaloosa to visit our friends, The Givens! They moved in July and we have missed them terribly. Emily and Nate came up for Grant's birthday but we haven't see them since. Grant and I stopped about halfway down to eat lunch and he was so excited, he started telling all of these strangers that he was going to see Nate and Abby-doo and was going to spend the night! It was so sweet seeing his excitement! I was just as excited to see Emily and get some girl time! When we got there I was in SHOCK at how much Abby had grown and how much she is talking. She is such a little beauty and full of character! I brought her an early bday present since we can't make the party.

Emily had a fun craft for them to do, spider cookies out of oreo cookies, so fun!

Seriously, could she be any cuter?
Grant and Nate have been nuts about Toy Story for as long as I can remember so this is fitting! Speaking of Toy Story, Nate and Grant have the same Buzz Lightyear but for some reason Grant likes Nates better? Its so weird. He started talking about this Buzz from the second I told him we were going to visit them, he barely put it down the entire time we were there, thank you Nate for sharing.
Emily set up an air mattress for Grant and the kids had a great time jumping on it and watching themselves do silly things on the video monitor!

I really enjoyed getting to play with Abby! I would hide and jump out and scare her with my arms up in the air and yell "RAWWR" at her.. and she would die laughing and then do it back at me!
After dinner, the kids stripped down to their skivvies and had a dance party, hilarious
Whatta ya know, Grant is dancing' with Buzz

This picture is hilarious to me.. look at Abby shaking her booty, she's got the arms and all and YES she was on beat! (She gets it from her Mama!).
After the dance party was bath and bed! Grant didn't sleep
The next morning we had a delicious breakfast and then headed to Bowers Park (I think!), the kids had a great time and ran off some energy!

We had such a wonderful time and can't wait to go back to visit again. We miss The Givens SO MUCH but we are so glad they are happy in Tuscaloosa! Grant really misses Nate and Abby and it was so awesome watching them play together! I was super thankful for the park play because Grant slept the ENTIRE 3 hrs and 45 min ride home!
Again, thanks Emily and Greg for having us, we miss you so much and had a great time!

A day in Pulaski!

2011-10-25T12:25:00.006-05:00

Yesterday Mom, Grant, and I all headed down to Pulaski to see my Grandparents and while we were there we stopped in at Owens Family Dentistry to see one of my dearest friends, Amber, and her husband, Dr. Nathan Owens. We love being able to support our friends in their business and get to see loved ones at the same time! Grant was a TROOPER! I was a little worried at first but as usual, Amber was a pro! She found something on tv for Grant to watch and then had special names for her instruments (the spit sucker was called "Mr. Thirsty")! She let Grant pick his flavor and use the mirror to help her, it was perfect! Then he got to pick a treasure from the box and was equipped with a new toy and a new toothbrush! He went to the lobby to tell Buddy he didn't have any "Catabies"! Then it was my turn.. Im happy to report no cavities for me either! Thanks Amber and Nathan!

Being the awesome mother that she is, Mom took my car on up to Granny's with both boys in tow while I got my teeth cleaned! After I got there we talked a while and then had some lunch. In all of my 31 years let me just stop and say that there has NEVER (and I do repeat, NEVER) been a time that there has not been ice-cream in my Grandparents house. My Grandpa should be in an ice-cream eating contest, he could win it! Maybe ESPN will have host one instead of a hotdog contest because I can tell you, that that man would win! Anyways.. after lunch Grant KNEW what he would get. Grandpa usually has those mini ice-cream sandwiches for the kids but he had the big ones this time.. Grants face is priceless, he was so excited!

After our yummy treats we went outside to enjoy the beautiful day!

Grandpa likes to ride the kids on the mower, last time we were there Grant fell off and was terrified so it was much to my surprise when he asked to go for a ride.

And what Grandparent visit would be complete without bouncing on the beds? Only at Granny's!

Well.. I had other pictures attached here but I am not sure what happened :( They were cute too. Oh well.. I don't have time to put them back up! But anyways, we had a fantastic time and can't wait to visit again soon :)

Fall, Part II

2011-10-18T13:39:00.007-05:00

On to more adventures in Fall! Buddy and Grandaddy treated all the grandboys to ride Thomas the Train! You talk about W.I.L.D. It was 9 million degrees outside and lucky for us we were the 2nd train ride of the day! They had activities to entertain you as you waited but we wanted a good spot in line so we only played for about 15 mins! Here are some pictures from our adventure!

This was also my 1st train ride!

Thomas the Train was great fun but by the end of the HOT day we were all tired, hungry and grumpy! But a BIG Thank You to Buddy and Grandaddy for treating us!Next on the list: Fall Festival at Buddy and Grandaddy's church... anyone who knows my kid can tell just by the look on his face in this picture KNOWS he's in a bad mood. He was so tired for some reason and wouldnt cooperate with anything.. oh well

Grandaddy showing off his namesake!

Here is Grant throwing a fit not wanting to throw a ball for the dunking booth, he kept thinking he would get dunked! HAH

Cole and Buddy, he was all smiles! Grant did enjoy the petting zoo!

Grant then told Grandaddy and Franklin that he wanted to ride the bull... yah thats what he thought...

The one thing G went nuts over was the train ride... I bet we rode this ten times! PS.. Cole teetee'd all over Grandaddy here!

They had real police cars, firetrucks, ambulances etc... Grant wouldnt speak to anyone.. look at his face!

We enjoyed the festival and thanks to Grandaddy and Buddy for putting up with our Grump!

Fall Fun, Part I

2011-10-13T10:23:00.008-05:00

We have really been enjoying this beautiful weather, esp the days its sunny and in the mid 60's, I hope it comes and stays for a while! Grant has become a little pro on his bike and so we've been going to the park and riding around the neighborhood. Last Sunday after church we went to eat lunch and packed up and headed to Old Fort Park!

We also like to go to Cason Lane in the mornings or after school to play, but this day Grant was waiting on his friend, Noah, and refused to play until he saw him!

YAY, he spotted him! Unfortunately Ididnt get any pics of that playdate :(

Another thing we've done this fall is we had a special date with Buddy, Grandaddy, Aunt Kelly, Tol and Yates to see "Dolphin Tale" . It was a super cute movie but dang those 30 minutes of previews... we were going to try to escape them but the theater was filling up fast. Oh well.. we still had fun!

And what fall would be complete without a little "spruce up" to the house! We added a fire pit, sitting wall, and about 3 feet to our patio! I am LOVING this new space. The picture doesnt give it justice. We hope to soon build a pergula and once that dude is up, you'll be sure to find me in our back yard most of the time! I can not WAIT to light this baby and make some smores.. COME ON COOL WEATHER!

We also had a party on Sunday to celebrate Granny's birthday! We added lots of fall decorations and it was an absolutely PERFECT day!Grant was so excited to have a "Big Ol Pawty" (his quote) at his house and he kept running outside to see if anyone was here yet!Granny gettin' some Cole love!

I am not real sure what was going on here.. a bunch of clapping and singing and chanting.. it was funny but Buddy, Granny and little Tol were having a ball!

We had a TON of food burgers, hotdogs, chips, potato salad, baked beans, etc. I also made a homemade icecream cake that tastes like the on from Dairy Queen.. HEAVEN! I also made some pumpkin spiced cupcakes and MAN ALIVE... they went like crazy! I made them bite size and they were delicious!

Cousin Wesley.. he is such a sweet little boy!

All the boys brought their bikes and went on a ride, so cute seeing them all play together!

Kelly, Mom, and Granny watched funny videos on her notebook of the boys dancing while everyone else was outside and Granny could get one more "baby fix"!

Its been a great fall so far.. I have more to post on some fall fun!!!! But Im out of time!

A Birthday Song

2011-10-05T09:06:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to my Granny! We called her this morning and Grant got to talk to her and "Sing" to her. But my little Cole, well he cant talk, so here he is singing her is own version!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRANNY, We love you!

Sweet Six Months

2011-09-29T19:42:00.005-05:00

I can't believe this sweet little face will be six months old in just two days. It seems like time is slipping away from me. I am trying to relish these baby stages as much as possible! Here are some highlites:
Sitting up full time without support (although I keep the boppy behind him just in case!).
Eating babyfood twice a day, he likes everything but bananas.
Cutting his 1st tooth, its halfway through the skin.
Nursing 4 times a day.
Absolutely LOVES playing with his brother and constantly looks for him.
Enjoys playing with brothers toys, esp. Spiderman, Goblin, and Buzz!
Still taking 3 naps a day.
"talks" nonstop, he's very loud at times too!

Overall he is just a joy, always happy unless he's tired, hungry or wanting to change positions!
Here are some pictures of the past couple of weeks and a video of him "talking".

This is how we spend most mornings, on the floor with toys and then when G gets up they "play" together!

Eating brothers Goblin

He LOVES these stacking rings, he dumps them off and then squeals with laughter!

Happy 6 month birthday sweet Cole!

New Wheels

2011-09-23T11:46:00.003-05:00

One of Grant's big birthday presents was a new Spiderman Bike from his Grandpa!

Of course, things never go as planned. I had been excited all day to give the bike to him and when he saw it he just sd "Yah.. a Spiderman bike", not the reaction I was looking for. As a matter of fact, it was a battle even getting him to sit on the bike. He didn't want any part of it (other than staring at it) until lil' brother sat on it!

After that he finally gave it a spin, it was short lived but at least he got on.

I am happy to say that he now loves the bike and asks to ride it almost every afternoon when his Daddy gets home. He can ride really far and he does fantastic, I'm so proud of him. I think the day we gave it to him his little allergies were acting up and he was just tired! Who cares, just happy he loves it now!

Spiderman Party!

2011-09-15T16:16:00.010-05:00

Last Saturday was Grant's 3rd birthday party. We had it at Jumper's Playhouse in Smyrna! This place was a great place to throw a party, basically you show up with cupcakes and they do everything else! Grant and Nate were super excited (remember Nate had spent the night with us) and Emily managed to get one quick picture of them before they started jumping.

We had a fantastic turnout, I think there were 17 kids total and about 35 adults! Grant had a blast with all of his friends.

Grant and Colin
Cale Mooney

Grant and sweet Eden Sanders
Carey Sanders and son Noah

Bates Brown

Me and Emily
Uncle T and G (and Yates to the side)
Aunt Kelly and G

I wished I could've gotten a picture of all the kids but it was a tad chaotic!

Sharing with the birthday boy! (Side note: SO disappt'd that I dont have a picture of him blowing out his candle OR a video of it)
GIFT TIME! Grant got a TON of great presents and I certainly hope everyone got the appropriate thank you card because it was WILD opening presents, I worked up a good sweat!

As you can tell by the picture above, Grant was GOOFY tired by the end of the party. He had a fantastic birthday and thank you to all who came and made my little boys 3rd birthday special!

Best Gift Ever

2011-09-11T17:12:00.007-05:00

Grant got the best gift he could possibly ask for for his birthday. On Friday, his best friend, Nate, came all the way from Tuscaloosa, AL to spend the night (a first for both boys) and then attend the big birthday bash on Saturday. The look on their faces when they saw each other was absolutely PRICELESS! The squeals that came from those two boys sounded like little girls! As soon as we got in the door Nate wanted to give Grant his birthday present, which was fully equiped with a Spiderman costume and Spiderman pj's (both of which Nate already had and brought to play in).

Grant on the left, Nate on the right!

When the masks came off they'd say "Hey, Im Peter Parker now" or in their language "Petuh Pawkuh"

Little brother was amazed!

After a ton of playing and "web shooting" the goblins, we had supper and some ice cream cake and the boys were ready for a bath! We loaded the tub with tons of bubbles and they had a great time.

After bath, of course came the matching spiderman pjs! They were hysterical and oh so cute in these!

Grant kept telling Nate how much he loved him and missed him. Its so sweet and sad at the same time.

At about 8:30 Em and I decided we had better start getting them in the bed because we knew it would be a process. I put the air mattress in Cole's room so Emily could have Grants bed (sorry about the uncomfy bed Em) and the boys thought it was cool. I put on the Toy Story sheets and Em read them a book and I bet we went in there 10 times after that to tell them to be quiet. Poor Nate was exhausted from the drive and not having a nap and over the monitor we heard Nate say "Grant, you're annoying me". HILARIOUS. After a meltdown or two from each boy we finally heard silence at 9:15.
After the kids went to bed Emily and I rented a girly movie and had a glass of wine and had many laughs. It was much needed.

The next morning I made cinnamon rolls and we got the kids ready and they were super excited to party!
I can't thank Emily enough for bringing Nate up to make Grant's birthday so special! We had a FANTASTIC TIME and I can't wait to do it again! WE LOVE AND MISS YOU!

The Big 3!

2011-09-08T10:42:00.002-05:00

Look at my big 3 year old boy!!!!!!! I swear he's grown just in the past month, he looks so tall and handsome and well, not like a baby anymore. The night before his birthday I came down the steps after tucking him and started crying, I told Franklin I can't believe we didn't have a "toddler" anymore. The morning of his birthday we started it off like his other two bdays, we had a pancake breakfast and a chocolate milk! It was a Tuesday, so we headed to school with creamsicle cupcakes in hand! When I picked him up they told me he was so proud at school when they sang to him, and he even got to be the "line leader" for the day!

Here are some family pics we got before school! Of course he had to have a picture with his brother first! (PS.. Im still nuts about all of Coles blonde hair!)

After school we came home to open some presents. Franklin and I had gotten him some clothes, and shoes that he needed (we knew he'd get tons of toys at his party) and he wasnt very thrilled with that (typical for that age). BUT THEN he got to open the big surprise from Mom and Dad. Let me back up for a second... when we were in Florida we were eating one night and this little boy came in with a Spiderman (which Grant also had) and a Green Goblin (the bad guy in Spiderman). Grant got so excited and asked if he could have one too. We asked the parents where they got the Goblin and wouldn't you know it was from a McDonald's happy meal from months ago. We tried finding other Goblins and Grant kept saying "I want one like that little boy had, not that one" and its all he talked about for a month. When we'd ask him what he wanted for his bday, he'd reply with "a green Goblin like that boy at the beach". SO... I did what any mother would do and did my research and found one on eBay for $4 shipping and all! It was the best $4 I've ever spent...

He was SO excited, he yelled "MY GREEN GOBLIN, thank you so much". PRICELESS!

Goblin even went to Sweet Cece's for yogurt with us that night and he has barely been put down! We had a great day with him and I've come to realize that your birthday isnt just for you, its just as special to your parents! I never understood that until I had kids of my own. I can't wait for his big party on Saturday, stay tuned!

3 Wonderful Years

2011-09-05T19:45:00.003-05:00

Three years ago tonight my life was about to be forever changed! At 5:10 am on Sept 6th, this sweet child was placed in my arms. Grant has brought so much laughter and love in to our lives and I honestly barely remember life before him. I can't possibly say all the lovely things there are to say about him other than I love him so much and wish him a very Happy 3rd Birthday!

Newborn
1 year

2 years

3 years

Happy Birthday my handsome sweet boy!

Jumparoo!

2011-09-01T19:37:00.002-05:00

This post is for my Granny! Everytime I try to email her videos they never work, and she wants to see Cole so bad! So, today I took one just for her! I love how excited Cole gets in his jumpy and I can giggle at him and tell him to laugh and he'll do it back! I love this age!

5 months

2011-08-31T19:50:00.005-05:00

Happy 5 month birthday to my sweet Cole! It makes me so sad to think of how quick the past 5 months have flown by! The above picture says it all about him, he is like this 90% of the time! His little laugh and smile can instantly cheer you up!

Alot has been going on in the past month, we have started baby food & he's fan! We have tried sweet potatoes, carrots, bananas, and squash, he likes carrots the best!

Bananas.. eh... take em' or leave em'.

Squash was also a big hit!

He's become very active and what I would like to call a "roly poly". I will put him in his crib for nap just like the below picture... and I come in to find several different things when we wakes up.....

Feet in the air and usually cooing or laughing or.......

Sideways.. and still giggly

and the most pitiful.. when he flips over on his tummy and can't get back to his back, that sweet little arm gets stuck :( SO SAD.

Although pitiful, I love this picture because finally... it shows his blonde hair coming in on top! Other pictures it looks red for some reason.

He is also a huge fan of the jumparoo, he jumps like crazy in this contraption! I love to watch him grab for the hanging objects and spin the little toys, this is his "focus face"!

And for our latest milestone, he is trying to sit up! He can sit up for about 10 seconds without assistance, it makes me so happy to think of how far he's come but so sad to think my little fella is already able to sit up without me.

Even when he falls over (on the nice padded boppy I might add), he is still all smiles!

This sweet little angel has brought a ton of extra love, laughs and smiles to this family! Happy 5 months my sweet Cole, you're a pure joy!

1st Day of School

2011-08-25T12:06:00.002-05:00

Last Thursday was Grant's first day of school, he was so excited to being going in to the 3 year old class! His new teachers this year, Miss Denise and Miss Lisa, said he was a very sweet and well behaved little boy! If you ask me, the picture below looks like straight up mischief!
He had a great first day and I couldn't believe my eyes, when I went to pick him up he was out cold on his nap mat. Last year he was always the last one down, first one up!

Of course he had to get his picture with little brother before school, this is my new fave of my boys!!! True personalities are shown here!

So thankful for Grant being back in school, we love Little Lambs!

Beach Vacation

2011-08-18T11:19:00.019-05:00

(Excuse the spaces in pictures in this post and they type-o's, I've tried several times to fix them and I can't)

Thursday, Aug 4th Franklin and I loaded up the boys and started our way down to Florida. Let me just say.. packing for two kids and myself is a LOT of work. I didn't have to take a ton because the house we go to has a washer/dryer and that helps a ton. We have been going to this same house on Santa Monica Beach (basically Panama City) for 3 years now. My Dads best friend, Jon, and his wife, Jan own the house and they are gracious enough to let us stay there. Thursday afternoon we drove 5 hours to Greenville, AL. We got a room at the Holiday Inn and it was by far the best move we've ever made! It was so cute seeing Grant get excited about his first hotel experience!

Friday morning we got up early, had a little breakfast and we were Florida bound. It took us about 4 hours with a few stops to potty and nurse. As soon as we got to the house Uncle Tol, Aunt Kelly, Papa G, and the boys were already out swimming in the pool. Grant was eager to see his cousins and I just wanted out of the car!

As soon as I got everything unloaded we hit the pool!

Cole and Aunt Kelly swimming

Cole lasted about 45 minutes in the pool and was ready for nap! I thought he looked so precious and cuddly here!

After some swimming we all got ready and headed out to dinner. It was a nice HOT hour long wait and a few meltdowns later we got some yummy food!

Yes, go on and laugh, I matched the boys often on this trip! Hey.. they are only small for so long, I plan on taking full advantage of it!

I find this picture hilarious. Tol decided to "rest" with the boys as they were winding down before bed... notice.. all 3 kids are awake and he is OUT COLD!

Yates ended up sleeping with Tol and Kelly because he was being a jabber jaw! So funny

The next morning Dad went in to check on the kids to find this... you couldnt even see Grant's head! I now remember why I dont sleep with my kids!

The next morning Tol, Dad, Franklin, and little Tol all went deep sea fishing while Kelly, Yates, Grant, Cole and I stayed at the pool. The guys had a great time and caught a ton of king mackrel.

Meanwhile at the house..

Thankfully the boys all tired out at the pool and took a great afternoon nap, leaving Kelly and I to some much needed sun/girl time! We never get to hang out just the two of us, so it was nice.

After a nice meal of grilled fish, shrimp, salad, and potatoes the little boys decided to go skinny dipping! YES, Tol and Papa G are dressed!

You should've seen Little Tol and Grant eat this grilled shrimp... they nailed most of that plate!

Sunday morning, Tol,Kelly and the kids headed back to TN. So we decided to load up the boys and go across the street to the beach. And unfortunately, Grant hated the beach for the 3rd year in a row. He didnt mind the sand, it was more the ocean this year. I don't get it, to each their own I suppose.The wind was terrible, blowing the umbrella over and the water was so rough you couldnt even get in, so back to the house we go. That was the 1st of the next 6 days that it rained.

Monday morning we got up had breakfast and just stayed at the house. We went to Schooners for the BEST grouper sandwiches ever and then waited on DeeDee's flight to arrive

. Poor DeeDee barely got up the next morning before Grant was all over her. I went outside to check on him and he had her in the pool in her PJS. For lunch we went to Margaritaville for lunch! They have my favorite Nachos and Pink Cadillac MaFranklin bought the boys matching Salty Pup shirts, here is Cole in his!

Grant was so cute on this trip, he is getting so big. Everywhere we went when the waitress would come by for our drink order, he'd say "I'll have a sweet tea please". He's never ordered tea until he heard his cousin order one.. and from then on, its all he wanted! So sofisticated!

The next day, more rain... so we swam in the rain and then got ready and headed to Pineappple Willies. I love the experience there!

The next morning we had a few hours of spotty sun so we gave the beach another try. Cole did geat, he slept the majority of the time. Grant built a few sand castles, found some shells, and covered my feet with sand.. that was about the extent of his time at the beach.

Oh.. and a little bit of "Crush", Notice the orange stache!

After the beach, we got ready and headed to Sharkey's for dinner.. which unfortunately was a huge disappointment.. but at least we got some good pics!

Grant was really in to swimming at night or when we got home from dinner .. so before it got dark we went for a little dip!

That afternoon we got dressed early and went to one of our all time faves, Captain Anderson's.

The next day.. guess what? RAIN AGAIN... so what did we do? We ate again! We went to Shuckum for some oysters... let me rephrase... THEY went and I got cheese sticks!

I could NOT believe it... GRANT EVEN ATE THEM! GROSS. However I was so proud of him, he ate a ton of seafood on this trip: Oysters, Crab Legs, Shrimp, Group and Red Cole really enjoyed himself too... so much so that he fell asleep on the table!After an appetizer we went back to Schooners for a Grouper sandwich, yes they are THAT good!

I was so disappointed because the ONE night we chose to not "get ready" was the one and only clear night with a magnificant sunset. So unfortunately, our "beach pictures" are in our crummy clothes and no makeup :( OH WELL.

This was the opposite side of the sunset with the full moon coming up. PHENOMINAL!

The next day, our last day, was absolutely BEAUTIFUL, barely a cloud in the sky. Papa and DeeDee hit the beach early that morning and came back around noon. We fed the kids lunch and I put Cole down for a nap and Grant stayed in the pool. They offered to let Franklin and I go to the beach ALONE! WHAT... A.... TREAT! It was so nice!

After we got back we went to The Salt Water Grill, very nice and yummy!

This is my favorite picture of the trip! Click on it to enlarge it and look at the kids faces!

A few of the mornings we were there Dad would run down the street to Thomas', they have donuts and biscuits etc. He brought Grant a chocolate covered donut with M&M's and you can imagine his delight! Grant LOVED IT!

Since it was our last night, and he had asked us EVERY SINGLE DAY we took Grant to Pier Park, or as Grant called it "Peter Pawk". I am so mad at myself for not taking my camera to his first amusement park, so these pictures are a tad blurry due to the fact I took them with my cellphone. He loved the merry-go-round (rode it 3 times, barf), the train that went around the park, and then the airplanes. The airplanes cracked me up because when we got to the top he raised his hands and yelled "ROCK AND ROLL". Not really sure where that came from but it was funny!

Grant and Daddy on the Merry-Go-Round

We had a FANTASTIC beach vacation, despite the rain! Thanks to Jon and Jan for sharing their home with us and to Papa and DeeDee for inviting us. Oh and Jessica, thanks for letting us use your baby float for Cole and taking care of that miserable excuse of a pet, Pal! Its good to be home!

4 Months

2011-07-30T15:11:00.004-05:00

Time is going by quickly, our sweet Cole just turned 4 months old! He's an absolute joy in our life! He wakes up smiling and cooing unless he's hungry or tired. I've noticed alot of new milestones within the past few weeks!

He loves his playmat, he is starting to grab the toys that hang from the top. He loves grabbing rattles and his passie. He also likes to chew on his feet too!
The other day he was on his mat and I noticed it got quiet and I found this...

Sweet baby played himself to sleep! Most of the time he is doing this...

He also is enjoying his Bumbo seat! He loves to be able to see whats going on at all times, esp if big brother is around.

He loves his exersaucer, which I failed to post a picture of and he's also enjoying his jumparoo!

Cole loves to watch his big brother... I've realized now that having two kids is to your advantage, they can entertain each other!

Cole is a great sport, I often come in the room finding Cole covered in toys.. this particular day Grant was sharing his Spiderman sticker!

We have also started cereal..he's not real sure of it but he is doing great at eating it. Its weird to me that he's already in a high chair :(

I kept having to cancel his 3 month pictures so I decided to take some myself, this was his last week of being 3 months old!

No.. he does not have red hair.. it just looks like it in this picture! As a matter of fact, most of his hair is falling out.

We love our sweet boy, happy 4 months!!!

Farewell

2011-07-27T19:25:00.007-05:00

I am so sad to say that one of my best friends, Emily, and her family will be moving to Alabama. Not only is she my super close friend but her son, Nate, is Grant's best friend. So this is double sad to me! I could not be happier for their family and this new adventure that they are taking on, I just wished we could still be a part of it but I am so happy to have met them! I met Emily before I was even pregnant with Grant. We never hung out or anything, but when she found out I had just recently had a baby and lived basically across the street, she reached out to me. She asked me to come to strollersize with her and Lord knows I needed out of the house. I sincerely believe she got me out of a funk that I couldn't pull myself out of. She forced me to get out of my house and make friends... and that I did, I made a life long one! Grant was about 3 months old and Nate roughly 15 months. I don't know why but I don't have any pictures of them early on. Here are some pictures of the last three years throughout our friendship. Its so funny to watch these boys grow! And sorry Abby, sweet girl.. I dont know where all of your pictures are but you are equally loved!

Em was sweet enough to come to our house at 4am to stay with Grant the morning I had Cole. She also got to witness one of the sweetest moments in my life, Grant meeting his brother for the first time!

BFF's!

This was our last playdate! The boys really didn't have a clue but to us girls, it was sad and emotional!

Thanks Emily for being such a wonderful, loyal friend. You have brought many laughs and smiles to my life and I know there are many more to come! Murfreesboro won't be the same without you, and neither will our Girls Nights! Best wishes in AL, we love you!

Party Time!

2011-07-18T14:00:00.005-05:00

This weekend we had two very special birthday parties to attend! First on the agenda was Nate's 4th Birthday! I can't believe it.. it seems like I was just attending his 2nd birthday party.

Grant was a little timid at first, he wouldn't talk to anyone and didn't want to play which is very unlike him. Esp since we were with all of his friends from his regular play groups, then it hit me, the last time we were at a "Bounce House" he got hurt. After about ten minutes of holding on to my leg I felt him let go and off he went to find Nate and Noah!

The kids jumped for about an hour and then off to the party room where there was pizza, cake, presents, and a big chair for the birthday boy! Nate was sweet and shared the chair with his friends!

Cole was such a sweet boy at the party. Despite being his nap time and being tired he was still all smiles! Em's Mom, Beth, got to give him lots of love. There's nothing like love from a Grandmother! I swear babies know other Moms/Grandmas!

I absolutely LOVE this next picture! I think its so precious of both Emily and Nate! Beautiful!

All the kids were super excited about cupcakes! .....

.... Abby loved hers too.. it was so funny watching her eat this. Girlfriend inhaled it and had no problems having frosting all over her!

Grant asked for a "Panilla Pupcake with Staws" Translation: Vanilla Cupcake with Stars!

I don't think I have ever heard Grant or Noah be this quiet. Im not sure they even took a breath of air in between bites!

We had a fantastic time at Jumper's Playhouse for Nate's party but it was over at 12.

So.. we got in the car and headed to Brentwood to drop off Cole with Grandaddy so he could at least get one good nap in. After a fast change of clothes, Grant and I headed to Columbia to Allie's 3rd Birthday Party at The Royal Brush to paint pottery!

Beautiful birthday girl!

This too, hurts my feelings a little.. I remember the day she was born, and it does NOT feel like she should be 3. I guess thats because I know Grant is next!

Grant was one of the only boys there, but he didnt seem to mind, esp once he realized there was "panilla" icecream to be had!

I have to admit I was extremely skeptical about taking a 2 year old to paint pottery. I thought it would be a disaster but he actually LOVED it and did a great job.

Elizabeth told the kids "You have 3 things to choose from, a monkey, fish, or catepillar". Grant yelled as loud as he could "I'll take a dolphin". WHAT? That wasn't even an option! He ended up picking the Catepillar and as he was painting it all he could say was "My Daddy will be so proud of me, he's gonna love this". So sweet.

We had a great time at the parties! Grant and I were super tired from our day but it was well worth it! Happy Birthday Nate and Allie!!!!!!!!

Quirky Bird

2011-07-11T14:10:00.003-05:00

Grant is growing like a weed and as he approaches 3 years of age (which is still hard for me to swallow) I get more and more amazed at things he says to me on a daily basis. Everything he does ends in "like a big boy". He wants to sit "like a big boy" (no more high chair), walk in the grocery store "like a big boy", get in the car "like a big boy", clean up his toys "like a big boy" etc. etc. In a way this is WONDERFUL but can also be trying at times and takes a ton of patience. But the biggest part, to me, is how observant he has become and all of the 100 questions that come with the smallest task. He's interested in knowing "What's his/her name" to every person we pass or see on tv, and the question of "WHY"? He's so stinking quirky on all of his comments.. so I started writing down some of our conversations and they go a little something like this:

I'm in the bathroom trying to get ready and I'm puttin on deo.
G: "Mommy, what is that, what are you doing".
Me: "Its deo. and its only for grown ups, you're a kid, you don't need any yet"
G: Yah.. its for "growed mens" and .. and... and for you Mommy" (As if Im super stinky or something).

G: Oh Mommy, your toes arent pink anymore, you need to paint them
Me: I will Grant, not right now, later
G: No, you really need to do it now. (Gee thanks Grant)
a few hours later after his nap we were sitting on the steps outside
Me: Look Grant, Mommy painted her toes, are you happy now?
G: Yah Mom, it looks so much better

G: Hey Daddy, I took a good nap today, did you?
F: Yes Grant, I did have a good nap
G: Did you teetee in your bed Daddy?
F: (Trying hard not to laugh) No Buddy, I didnt
G: Oh.. dats a good job Daddy

G: EWWWWWWW.. Baby Cole.. don't "swobber" on me, dats not berry nice we don't spit

Eating supper..
Me: Grant, EAT YOUR SUPPER or you can't have your special treat
G: Dat's Fine Mom
Me: Seriously Grant, you need to finish your supper
G: Mom, I dont care if I dont get a treat

Grant is fighting me on taking a nap
Me: Grant you have to take a nap, its not an option
G: No Mom, don't talk to me dat way

We went to the store and I let him pick out his own cheese
G: Hey Daddy, I picked out my own cheese today
F: Yah.. what kind did you get
G: Um.. I got some "Cody Jack" and its really good

Brotherly Love

2011-07-07T13:25:00.003-05:00

To say that Grant loves his brother would be a big understatement. The entire time I was pregnant I often worried how he would react to being a brother and if he would be jealous or resentful. I can proudly say that God answered all of my prayers and calmed my fears. Grant is an AMAZING big brother. He loves to help me with anything that has to do with Cole. He is also very protective of him, which is a trait I hope always stays true to form!

Grant smothers him with hugs and kisses and wants to hold him all the time. He likes to wear matching shirts (YES with my influence but he still digs it and I am gonna take full advantage of it before he thinks its dorky!).

Whenever I undress Cole, he wants to strip down to his undies too. He loves to touch his belly to Cole's, he thinks its hysterical.

This is something that absolutely melts me. When Grant walks in the room, C's face just lights up. Sometimes out of fear (ha!) but mostly due to excitment. If Grant is in the room he just watches him and smiles and coo's at him. I think its precious and again, I hope this lasts forever.

The mornings are my favorite times with them. Cole gets up first and then we go get Grant up. Grant is usually sittin on the edge of his bed patiently waiting for us and when we open the door he sings our good morning song to Cole, he'll say "Hi Brother... Good morning to you, how do you do", its so sweet.

I know I have many scuffles and fights ahead of me but I sure hope that Grant continues to love Cole and be protective of him. I also pray that Cole looks up to him and that they are super close and share a special bond. I love my boys so much and am beyond blessed to have them!

Father's Day - A little late!

2011-07-01T08:26:00.007-05:00

We had a wonderful Father's Day celebration. That Saturday we went to Buddy and Grandaddy's for a great party. Mom had bbq and tons of yummy food.
Here are all the Boys..

Great Grandpa and Cole Grandaddy and Grant

Great Granny and my boys!

Notice the boys matching shorts! Yes, Im a dork and I thought it was precious.

Grandaddy and his boys... this picture cracks me up because Cole's face is smashed into Grandaddy's shoulder.

Despite the rain and the cool weather the boys decided to get in the baby pool on the deck, the big pool would come later.

Cole and I stayed inside out of the line of fire, he gave Grandaddy some good smiles.

Tol and his boys, as you can see they were not interested in taking pictures!

This picture kills me.. Grants goggles are all crooked and he looks so goofy

Later in the afternoon we took all the boys to the neighborhood pool. Grant was a little leary at first but he changed his mind after Yates and Grandaddy jumped in with water guns.

Granny and Grandpa were on "Cole patrol".

On Sunday, Father's Day, it was rainy and yucky and they boys and I stayed at home and colored Daddy a nice card, made some cinnamon rolls, and we just snuggled all day! It was nice.

Then on Monday afternoon my Dad and Deloris came over. We cooked some halibut, sweet potatoes, and couscous. It was super yummy and we had a great time!

Grant was playing "Green Army Men" and spraying us as we walked by!

That Wednesday we had Frank over for dinner and it was nice. All in all it was a fantastic Father's Day celebration and we are so thankful for all of our "Fathers" and all they provide and do for us. A special Thank You to Franklin for being the best Dad to my two babies and always providing and being here for us, we love you!

TADA!

2011-06-25T08:52:00.003-05:00

I am such a proud Mama! Last night I was giving Cole his tummy time and all of a sudden he rolled over. I thought.. NO WAY.. he's way too little, Dr Bradley just told me to look for that at 4 months, and he's not even 3 months yet. So I put him back on his stomach and he did it again! Of course this morning the first thing I did was put him on his belly and grab the video! Here he is!!!!

Another Hoss?

2011-06-22T13:13:00.003-05:00

Don't let this shirt fool you... little brother, yes, but little... HARDLY!
Yesterday I took Cole for his 2 month check up (a few weeks late). I dreaded going because I knew he'd have to have his shots but I was interested to see his growth.
Brother Grant was always "off the charts" and always in the 75th-100th percentile. I know Cole is a chubster but I didn't expect to hear what I did.

Dr. Bradley came in and was giggling and sd "Girl, you sure can grow em' big". She went on to inform me that Grant was in her top 5 biggest kids on the growth chart. Not being fat, just big. She sd it looks like Cole is gonna be right there with him! He weighed in at 14.2 lbs and was 24 1/4 inches long and in the 75th percentile! She sd he's gonna be a tall one! He got a great checkup and gave her some great smiles too.

When I got home I looked in Grant's baby book to see how big he was. He was 17 lbs and 25 inches at 3 1/2 months! SHEESH.. thats huge but I didnt realize it then, he's all I knew.
Anyways, Im so proud of my boys!

ISR and Fun at Papa's

2011-06-17T20:20:00.004-05:00

A few weeks ago I took Grant to the pool in my Mom's neighborhood and I thought he would just automatically jump right in and swim like he did last summer. WOW was I wrong. So after literally 5 minutes of being at the pool I called Aunt Kelly as soon as I got home and being the great Aunt that she is, she squeezed us right in. Grant was NOT a fan and Im surprised she has an eardrum left, she sd he was her best fighter! Naturally.

Papa G came to watch him on Wednesday and told him if he would quit screaming and crying for Aunt Kelly that he would take him to buy a new Monster truck!

By Friday he was asking Kelly to "get his bar" again and again.. but floating was a different story. But he would suck it up and say "Im not gonna cry, Im gonna get me a Monster truck".

After swim we headed over to Papa and DeeDee's house for the weekend. Franklin was in a golf tournament so I loaded up the boys and we stayed there over the weekend. As soon as we walked in he told Papa he was ready to go get his Monster Truck at "Taw-get" (Target). Off they went and he came back with a Thomas the Train???? Whatever! The reward worked.

We had a great time at DeeDee and Papa's.. we cooked some delicious food and played in their pool most of the time! We also went to little Tol's 5th bday party and it was fun too! Here are some pics from our stay. Im sad to say I didnt have my camera at Tol's party :(

These pictures make me die laughing.. this is Cole after his bath...

Ready for bed!

We had a great time and we thank Papa and DeeDee for letting us stay and for the good memories we made!

Definately a "Swindell"

2011-06-13T14:08:00.003-05:00

It's well known that Grant is a "Madewell" made over. He looks just like Franklin and Frank, the only thing he got from me was his blonde hair. However my sweet Cole, he is most definately a "Swindell". He has Franklin's forehead and deep blue eyes but the rest of him is definately my Dad and I. If you've seenCole recently you'll definately be able to see the similarity. Dad and I have... well as weird as this sounds a "droopy" look and super long big cheeks!

Here is Dad as a baby

Me (dont mind my ears)

Do you see what I mean? I've got to get a picture of Dad holding Cole from the side because you can totally see it! Cole even has Dad's beautiful olive color skin tone!

Memorial Day Weekend

2011-06-01T08:09:00.007-05:00

Just about every Memorial Day weekend we go to Ohio to visit Franklin's Grandparents (Grant calls them Gigi and Pops). It usually takes us 5 1/2 hours to get there and this year it took 7. I can't complain the boys were PERFECT! We only stopped three times and then got hung in some traffic 15 minutes from their house, that always happens to us!

When we got there we let the boys stretch out and then headed back out for some pizza! Saturday we decided to grill out and stay outdoors since it was so nice. Grandpa got out his lawn mower and wagon and took Grant on a ride. He was a little timid at first but then loved it.

Grant has a new thing with pennies and money. I don't want to just give it to him, I make him earn it. I don't want him to think that you can just ask for it and its given. SO we made him help Pops pick up sticks in the yard!

Grant found a worm and loved it! He'd throw it and say "Where dat wum go?"

Grandma and I hung out on the porch with Cole!

This picture cracks me up because you can tell Grant is really telling Pops something. He says "Pops.. you a booger".

Smiley pants ...

This might be one of my favorite outfits.. above is the front and below is the back! It cracks me up!

Sunday we got up and went to church with Gigi and Pops and took some photos before the kids got all messed up!

Sunday afternoon, Franklin's uncles all came over to see the boys! Here is Cole with Uncle Steve..
Aunt Mary Jo...

Uncle Jeff

Uncle Bob...
Aunt JoAnn

Monday morning we got up early and packed up everything, had breakfast and hit the road. It was MISERABLY hot.. so hot that my car couldnt keep up and we kept the air on high and we were all red faced and covered in sweat when we got home. But again, the kids were excellent! It took 7 hours going home with only two stops. We got stuck behind another wreck.. .and I was suddenly humbled. As I was sitting there at a stand still thinking about Cole needing to be fed, Grant being hungry and all of us burning up, I looked over to see a demolished car and thought " I Have nothing to complain about". I stopped to thank the good Lord for protecting us on our way home and for our wonderful family! I hope everyone had a fantastic Memorial Day, we did!

Can You Name That Baby?

2011-05-26T08:32:00.004-05:00

Remember the post I did where I asked you if you could tell the difference in Grant and Cole? Well I have another one! This one to me is super simple and a no brainer and may be my last as you can see a significant difference!

This gown that the boys are in was Frank's (Grandpa). He was brought home from the hospital in it and Grandma wanted me to take Grants picture in it when he was 6 weeks so I did with Cole too, can you tell which baby is which? I am numbering them so at the end of the post I can give you the answers.

#1
#2

Then came Aunt Amy! She came for a visit (more on that later) and we put the boys in the same outfit! The boys have terrible faces in the pics with her... funny

Answers:

1 - Grant

2 - Cole

3 - Cole

4 - Grant

5 - Grant

6 - Cole

How'd you do? I thought it was simple but Im their Mother, it should be easy!

On another note, Cole is 2 months old.... it hurts my feelings but he's doing great! We've been working on naps/scheduling and its going pretty good. We still struggle some on naps but it takes a while. He's only getting up one time at night which is fabulous! He's nursing every 3-4 hours and that too is going great. We go in two weeks for his check up and I will have new stats for him! He's such a good baby!

Grant is also doing great. He just wrapped up his Mothers Day Out program and will start a summer sessioin for 3 weeks on June 7th! He's excited about that.

Thats all for now!

7 weeks already?

2011-05-18T15:30:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow Cole will be 7 weeks, I can't get over how fast its going by. Overall he is a good baby. We had two weeks of LOTS of crying and fussing (I was starting to believe he was colic) but we are slowly coming out of it. He needed to be put on a schedule and his feedings needed to be spaced out more. Needless to say its been a long week and its only Wednesday but I know I will thank myself later when he is napping like a champ! Not to mention Im a planner and do love a good schedule!

We have tummy time at least 3 times a day! He is getting super strong! He doesnt like to be in the "Cradle" position if you hold him, he likes to sit in your lap and lean up against you, he's very alert.

Don't let this yawn fool you, he can cry through an entire hour and a half nap and continue to stay up through the duration of his "wake time". I think he may be like his Daddy, stay up late at night and sleep late in the morning. Grant is like me, I go to bed early and get up early!

Last Saturday my best friends from highschool, Elizabeth and Becky, treated me to a girls lunch at Goodness Gracious! I really needed it and we had a great time, I dressed Cole in a good "froo froo" outfit and off we went! E and B held him and fed him for me so I could enjoy my meal, it was AWESOME!

Here is Cole being a bit of a "couch potato"

This might be my favorite pic.. here he is after a bath. His hair is WILD after I wash it. It is curly and stands straight up! It doesnt last long though.

And what day would be complete without love from Brother? Grant is still all over him and LOVES HIM to pieces! He is super helpful when I need a fresh diaper, pacifier, or something thrown away, he'll do anything for his "Baby Cole". As a matter of fact he is still so proud of Cole, when we go new places he'll say "I have a new baby". Bless him!

Strawberry Pickin'

2011-05-13T12:35:00.006-05:00

Last Saturday we headed out to Wartrace for our annual strawberry pickin'. We had talked about going to the strawberry farm for two days with Grant and he was super excited to go. That was, until we got there. I made him wear his crocs, BIG mistake. He wanted to wear his tennis shoes and I sd no because they were brand new and I thought they'd get muddy. Anyways we get halfway down to the strawberry patches when he starts crying because grass is on his feet, I mean, REALLY? Next time I will listen to him, it would've been easier to just wash his shoes than to deal with the whining. He had no interest in picking strawberries and naturally Cole was fussing at the same time. Franklin headed off to row 50 (he sd it was to get the different kind of berries, I think it was to escape the whiney kids, hahah) and I stayed on row 5 with Grant and Cole. Cole got in a full blown scream and so... there I was sitting on a strawberry patch with my hooter hider on nursing, Grant crammed in beside me all the while people around me are happily picking berries, awkward. I finally got Grant to pick some berries for me but he wanted to eat them instead, oh well, whatever makes him happy!

Cole finally gave up and chilled in his stroller!

Grant loved the roosters and chickens! Im surprised they got so close to him.

The farm has yummy homemade popsicles, cakes, preserves, and icecream. We got Grant an icecream and everything suddenly got better!

We ended up having a fun time but its a lot of work taking two kids. We enjoyed our berries and I hope to go back soon, next time we'll go AFTER nap and tennis shoes in tow! OH.. and a bottle for Cole!

Mothers Day!

2011-05-10T13:32:00.003-05:00

It was my first Mothers Day as a Mom of 2! I love these boys more than anything! Being a Mom is very hard, in fact its the hardest job I've ever had but I wouldnt change anything about it. I may not "get paid" but its the most rewarding job by far. Being a Mom can test every nerve in my body but there is absolutely NOTHING like having your sweet baby/child look up at you and smile. I love knowing I am providing love, nutrition, care, and happiness for my boys. I hope I can instill all the good values my parents taught me about God and how to be a good person. Being a Mom is the most important job I'll ever have and I hope I can make my boys proud and do them right!

I also thank my wonderful husband for providing for us and allowing me to stay at home and raise our sons. He is an anwesome Dad and Husband and I hope our boys watch him and pay attention to how attentive he is to me, so that they may someday treat their wives with the same love and respect.

Sunday afternoon, we went to my Aunt Marcia's house to celebrate Mother's Day. I love my Mom so very much, we are so close and she is my ultimate best friend. She's taught me so much on being a good Mother, friend, and person. Thank you MOm for everything you've done for me, thank you for the things I never said "Thank You" for As my friend Emily sd "Thank you for all the 'thankless' jobs I thought never counted but did"

Kelly and her sweet boys (Tol and Yates)

The boys got hot and decided to strip down to their underwear and play with bugs and water guns! Fun times. They were typical boys.. covered in mud, sticky sunscreen, soaking wet with water and sweat, and had "buggy" hands. I love it.

Grant LOVED catching these bugs (I forgot what they were). He was so cute carrying around this bug catcher!

I thank God everyday for my two precious boys! My Mother's Day was perfect, spending it with my loved ones!

4 Weeks!

2011-04-28T12:36:00.003-05:00

I can not believe this precious baby is 4 weeks old today :( Oh how time flies, esp with your second baby! He continues to be a good baby. He only gets up (most nights) at 1am and 4:30am to feed, and is finally sleeping in the pack n play! THe 4:30 feeding is harder to get him to go back to sleep so sometimes that results in getting in bed with me, but my sleep is SUPER important so I do what I have to do!

He has had several "1st's". Yesterday he started smiling when I talk to him (see below) and it MELTS ME! We have started tummy time and play time. He also finally lost his umb. cord after 3 1/2 weeks and got his first "full-on" bath.

First Smile

1st Tummy Time

1st bath! It doesnt look like he enjoyed it but he did! He wasnt a fan of getting out and putting lotion on though!

And just some random pictures...

We are still enjoying this sweet Angel and learning the ropes of having two kids. Grant continues to do well with Cole and is a great big brother! Happy 4 weeks little man!

Easter Overload!

2011-04-25T13:49:00.008-05:00

We have had a weekend jammed with Easter gatherings and it has been a blast. Grant started off on Thursday afternoon when Papa and DeeDee called and asked if he could come over because Cousins Tol and Yates were coming over to decorate eggs and have a hunt! So after school we headed on over and the fun began!

Papa and DeeDee were super brave to take on all 3 boys, esp when it came time to decorate the eggs! Poor DeeDee had blue hands and their house.. well.. you can only imagine what it looked like after those boys were done!

Oh.. and I did feel a tad sorry for Papa too!

They had a great time and we thank Papa and DeeDee for a good Easter Party!

Saturday, we headed over to Tol and Kelly's house for Easter and Mom's bday. Since Tol and I were kids the Easter egg hunt has been a SERIOUS competition, too bad we're not kids anymore but I think we both secretly feel the eagerness that our kids will find "The Golden Egg" each year!

Cole got to visit with his Great Grandparents too, he really enjoyed that. He also got to meet Aunt Marcia and his other cousins!

After some yummy burgers, duck (yes.. how awful is that we ate duck on Easter? If Tol would've had rabbit, I would've gone home hahahah), wild turkey, and side dishes we headed out for the big hunt! Grant was so funny, he would find an egg and then want to open it, we kept having to tell him "Hurry"! Yates would pick up an egg and shake it to see if he heard it rattle before putting it in his bucket, he would throw the other ones down. What he didnt realize is, there were dollar bills in the ones that didnt rattle! So cute.

Grandaddy and Cousin Adam supervised Cole while I took pictures.

Cousin Wesley found the golden egg!

Grant with his bucket, he had $19 and candy!

Cupcake time or "Pupcake" as Grant calls them

We had an awesome time at Tol and Kelly's celebrating Easter and Buddy's birthday! We didnt get home until almost 6:30 Saturday night and thankfully the kids were exhausted and ready for bed.

Sunday morning we got the boys up and let them see their Easter baskets before getting ready for Church.

Grant got a new talking Rex and he was tickled pink! Cole, he got some swim trunks and a few other things.. he could care less!

Buddy and Grandaddy drove over and came to church with us, here is Grant waiting at the door for them!

Me and my boys... I'm only about half ready at this point, its HARD getting ready with two kids!

Daddy and the Boys!

Unfortunately our family picture turned out TERRIBLE so I didnt post it, so disappointed. I looked awful and Grant was not cooperating. Oh well, thats life.

This last picture is so funny to me. You can see that Grandaddy is helping hold Cole and his hand is under his butt. Cole let out the biggest toot/poop and Grandaddy kept saying "He's pooping on me... HURRY HURRY". I was dying laughing.

Our first experience at church with two was eventful. Grant was good but Cole had a little accident and lets just say I had to change him, luckily I had a little UT onesie in my diaper bag, not the outfit I planned for Easter!

Anyways, our Easter afternoon was just perfect with the 4 of us! I am so thankful that God blessed me with such a great family, husband, and 2 beautiful boys!!

Life with Two!

2011-04-14T13:15:00.003-05:00

Well, we are two weeks in today with our sweet Cole! He is such a good, relaxed baby. Grant got to come home last Thursday and as you can see from the picture above he was beyond thrilled to hold his baby brother. I had oftened worried how he would react but the first few days our biggest issue was getting him to understand that he can't hold his brother all the time. I think that's a pretty good problem to have!

I have never in my life been so excited to see Grant. I missed him terribly bad, but at the same time I was nervous about him coming home. Honestly, Cole has been so easy that Franklin and I felt like we'd been on vacation while I was healing. We kinda forgot how much work a 2 1/2 yr old is and how much energy they have. It took us a few days to get back in the swing of things and we are all still adjusting but I am loving life as a family of 4! I told Franklin its ironic that today we celebrate our 4 year anniversary as a family of 4! Pretty neat!

Franklin has had to keep Grant entertained and do all of the "hard work" since I am still very restricted on things I can do. I hate not being able to chip in more but I have to say I have the BEST HUSBAND IN THE WORLD! He's been beyond supportive and helpful!

Grant has been super active and wanting to be on the go nonstop so Franklin has taken him outside and has had him going nonstop! His entertainment is "spraying off the patio"! He LOVES IT! Works for me.. well.. as long as I dont get in the line of fire!

Grant continues to love his little brother and Cole is a trooper about Grant holding, kissing, rubbing, and poking him all of the time!

There is absolutely nothing sweeter than watching your children form a bond!

I sure love my boys! All 3 of them :) I'm officially out-numbered but I wouldn't have it any other way! I feel so blessed to have 2 healthy beautiful boys and a fantastic loving husband!

Guess Who?

2011-04-06T12:55:00.003-05:00

I had to post these pictures because I thought WOW... they look alot alike! I, of course, can tell the difference but I never thought I would have two kids that looked so much alike! I have posted 4 pictures. 2 of Grant and 2 of Cole both wearing the same outfit!

Could you tell the difference? The first two pictures were of Grant and the last two were of Cole! Grant's head is rounder and Cole's is longer. Cole also is shorter and fatter notice his chinS!

ITS A BOY!

2011-04-04T13:35:00.010-05:00

I can't belive March 31st has already come and gone! Above is me, minutes before I got in to my lovely gown. YES, I have makeup on and my hair fixed because I only slept an hour and a half the night before! So I figured, why not.. I will get ready and be somewhat decent when my baby arrives. My experience this time was 100% different than it was with Grant. I didn't exactly love being fully aware of my csection but I did absolutely LOVE hearing that sweet cry.. it seemed like forever before they told Franklin he could peak over to see the gender! I will never forget him being the one to tell me that we had another son. I could not get the smile off my face. The minute I looked at him I knew his name, Cole Miller Madewell!

8 lbs 12 ounces and 20 inchesLove at first site!

Everyone waited very patiently. We had been told prior to registering that Franklin would get to walk the baby out and let him reveal the gender. However, Baptist works a little bit different. No one could see me or the baby until after I got out of recovery which well after 10am. I had been back there since 645 so everyone had gotten anxious. The way we revealed the gender was when Cole was taken to the nursery, Franklin went and told everyone to stand in front of the glass and he had the nurse bring him to the window and they saw the blue name tag! Well.. and they were bathing him! Then Franklin told them his name!

They sd he screamed during his bath and footprints but loved having his hair brushed. I think this picture looks exactly like Grant when he was a baby!

Finally all of the Grandparents got to come in and see him. I am sick that I dont have a copy of the picture of Cole's Great Grandparents holding him. I hope to get that soon and post on here.

Franklin's Mom, "Grandma"

"Grandaddy" (Note: Thomas COLE McCord)!

Buddy and Grandaddy (My Mom and Stepdad)

Uncle Tol (My brother)

Papa G (My Dad Gary MILLER Swindell)

Grandpa (Franklin's Dad)

DeeDee (My Stepmom)

The next event just so happens to be the absolute BEST moment of my life... Emily was visiting with me and I heard a little knock on my door to see this:

My precious Grant.. who now looked like a ten year old boy to me rounded the corner with flowers and grinned from ear to ear saying "HI MOMMY".. he came to my bed and climbed right up and sd "Where's my baby Cole, I need to hold him".

He is CRAZY about Cole, he loved on him, rubbed him and told everyone how sweet he is. The lactation nurse came in and he sd "Dont give my baby a booboo".

I couldn't be more proud of both of my sons!

Cole gave Grant a Leapfrog Tag reader and book and a pack of Smarties.. of course look what he was most excited about.. The Smarties!

Emily was getting one more "Cole fix" and Grant look at her and sd "Emily I need my Cole back, I need to hold him"!

I had a fantastic visit with Grant and many more friends and family. I had great nurses and a good experience this time. On Saturday we got the good news that we could come home and I was SO EXCITED! I dont like this picture because Cole's eyes are so red and swollen from that funky cream they put on their eyes but I wanted a good pic of us leaving!

Home Sweet Home!

There is so much truth to the saying "There is no place like home". I thank everyone for all their warm wishes, thoughts, and prayers. I thank God for my beautiful family and our healthy and recovery. Please continue to pray that our family of four has a nice transition and we all stay good and healthy!

Final Post!

2011-03-30T06:22:00.004-05:00

I can't believe its March 30th, where oh where has the last nine months gone? I have been up since 4:00am, I couldn't help but think "this time tomorrow......." and then I started going over everything else I had to do today so I sd "OK, Im up"! Maybe its a good thing, maybe I will be exhausted tonight and actually get some sleep! Having said that, its my last day as a Mother of 1. I will NOT say "its my last day with Grant" because I still plan on having my special "Grant days". We took him to his favorite Sweet CeCe's last night and of course I was sitting there watching him eat his yogurt .. I took one look at that face covered in chocolate with a smile from ear to ear... and of course tears.. who cries when eating frozen yogurt... ME.. Miss Ball of Emotions! So instead of being sappy and sad about his "growing older and becoming a big brother" I decided to leave this a happy post! I can't wait to meet our new addition tomorrow and to watch my babies grow and become best friends! So I leave you with some funny "Grant Quotes" Last weekend Franklin and I went to wake Grant up from his nap (he had slept past the 3 hour mark, MIRACLE). I was on one side of him and Franklin on the other, Grant sat straight up and sd "Hey... Whats going on in here". Franklin was reading Grant a book and paused for a moment, Grant looked up at and sd "Hey Daddy... read it, lets talk about it". We were at a playdate last week and there was sweet baby Eden in the floor playing, Grant looks at me and says "Hey Mommy, my baby came out of your tummy". Eating lunch, we were having some chips and I've craved Doritos (which Grant calls burritos), I had decided to go on a limb and get Sun Chips, I told him about them and he was excited. He took a bite, his face lit up and he sd "Those aren't Burritos, those are Sunchips and they taste like the sun". and... finally on Sunday I went and had a pedicure, I came home and sd "Hey Grant, look at Mommy's toes they are Hot Pink" he sd "Here, I blow them off for you, they are hot". Happy Wednesday Everyone! PS. I have edited this post several times trying to separate the quotes and for some reason it wont let me??? Sorry it reads funny.