Cole’s Cove

Cole's Kindergarten Conference

2011-11-11T19:59:00.002-05:00

We had Cole's conference this week. It's funny how excited I get for stuff like this. I guess it's what we SAHMs live for! I really feel like Mrs. King is in tune with our buddy. Of course, he gives her his best, so I'm a little jealous, but thankful too.

This is for my memory-sake, but read on if you'd like. And, yes, I am that nerdy mom who takes notes at conferences. Here's what Mrs. King said:

-he is obviously bright: thinks critically, outside the box, great communicator, etc: all signs of giftedness

-he is so terribly empathetic. If someone is hurting, he feels their pain almost worse than them. She told us to encourage that, unless it gets to a point where he feels too much pain for others! His wife will love this quality one day! (She gave an example about Grace who mentioned vaguely during circle time that she isn't allowed to Trick or Treat. Mrs. King said that was all she said. But, Cole was obviously sad and bothered that she couldn't, so he made her a special envelope of his Trick or Treat candies he had gotten. When Mrs. King saw that he had given this to Grace, she couldn't figure out why. Normally, he and Grace aren't close buddies. Then, later in the day, Cole told Mrs. King that "I felt sorry for Grace that she didn't go Trick or Treating".)

-he is REALLY excited about writing, which Mrs. King said, "is very very rare in boys." She said he will choose to write or do art work over anything else in class.

-he is rough on the playground...which doesn't make sense bc of the above empathetic statement. But, I guess we can all be a mix of things.

-He is a leader, which can be positive (leader skills) or negative (bossy/disrespectful).

-He is teachable. He will "test" or "argue" if he sometimes thinks there is a better way, but as soon as Mrs. King tells him "no" or "this is the way we're doing it", he always says, "yes maam". At this point in the conference, Hutch and I laughed out loud. Imagining our buddy saying "Yes Maam" to anyone seems crazy! She did say that his way is better a lot of times (again: a sign of how bright this boy is), but she won't let him win:)

-He and Natalie obviously really care for each other. Mrs. King said Cole feels very responsible for her (ie: making sure he is right next to her in line, helping her open her Capri Sun at lunch, etc). She said he is incredibly sensitive towards everyone, and just wants to make sure he doesn't feel TOO responsible in taking care of his Natalie...I don't think he minds one bit though!

We are so proud of our spirited boy! When we told Mrs. King that every day is tough with Cole- that he argues about everything and is so strong-willed at home, she couldn't believe it. I'm so glad he has her fooled, BUT we've worked hard this week to get him to act the same way at home:)

Bailey's Poo

2011-10-24T09:33:00.000-04:00

For other fun stories and pics, visit www.everyscrapcountz.blogspot.com

This type of information is for Cole's Cove viewers only! It's too boring to put on Every Scrap Countz, but I want to remember the details!

For months now Bailey has been pee-pee trained. She never has accidents and wears pull ups at nap and night time. She always asks for a pull up to poop in, or she goes during nap time. I've always just submitted, although I would ask her if she wanted to try to go in the potty. She ALWAYS said no...

UNTIL...we were at a wedding this weekend, and she said, "I have to go poo poo". I did have a pull up in my bag just in case, but I didn't tell her. So, we went to the bathroom and she went. Then, 20 minutes later, she was still so excited that she actually did it, that she wanted to go again.

Hutch said his favorite part of the wedding reception was watching me take her to the bathroom a million times! Awesome!

Also, if you're still reading..., I just wanted to say there is such freedom in being a mom to more than one child. Things like being only pee-pee trained don't stress you out at all. Being on the other side, I just knew she'd let me know when she was ready. In Cole's entire Kindergarten class, there's not a single kid in a diaper:) Now if I could just see on the other side of what my strong willed boy will turn out like!!!

Cole & Natalie

2011-10-11T17:53:00.001-04:00

For more cute stories about his girl, go to www.everyscrapcountz.blogspot.com

Apparently Natalie switched back to sitting with Cole at lunch. I'm not sure why, but he said "she's back". And, she's been playing with him at the playground, even though she doesn't like Tag.

He also comes home with notes from girls EVERY SINGLE DAY!

We are so thankful he is tender and sweet, even to girls! Lots of his Kindergarten friends aren't liking hanging out with girls these days!

More later...

An Update from Mrs. King today...

2011-09-28T14:29:00.001-04:00

"FYI- Cole has had a better day today in terms of calmness, raising his hand, and waiting for his turn. I think he probably learned a good lesson yesterday! I appreciate tender heart!" -Mrs. King

1st Email from Mrs. King

2011-09-28T09:52:00.000-04:00

Cole had to switch to yellow on the behavior chart yesterday in Spanish. He was so distraught that I emailed Mrs. King. Here is her response:

"Cole is a precious boy- very considerate and deeply compassionate toward his peers. But he is a boy and sometimes his energy and talkative spirit get the best of him. Yesterday he was pretty active and talkative from the start. I gave him a few warnings about interrupting me and running in the classroom, but it was not a big deal. I’m not sure about what happened in Spanish, but my guess is that he was talking or interrupting. I would just speak with him about raising his hand and listening to others who are talking. He really calmed down after that so I think he got the message." -Mrs. King

We thank God every day for Mrs. King. She totally has our spirited boy under control! More stories on Natalie & Cole to come!

A (Girl) Friend

2011-09-27T12:31:00.000-04:00

So, the cute stories between Cole & Natalie continue. Natalie is Cole's school friend. He says, "She is really pretty." They obviously have a thing for each other, both lighting up in each other's presence!

I went to school lunch on Friday. It was Bake Sale Friday. Natalie is diabetic. When Mrs. Gray announced that Cole's table could go get something from the Sale, Natalie burst into tears. Cole got his cupcake, returned to the table, and saw his sweet girl. So, he quickly BEGGED me to hide and take home his cupcake (this is a HUGE deal because if you know anything about Cole, you KNOW he loves sugar). sniff, sniff..."the most tender-hearted boy" (that was his award from PreK 4, btw!).

So, I hid the cupcake and we tried to distract poor Natalie. A minute later, she told Mrs. Gray that she was crying because she "couldn't find her Capri Sun straw". As soon as my sugar-lovin, tender-hearted boy heard that, he asked for his cupcake back!

WWWW

2011-09-21T09:01:00.004-04:00

Go on over to EVERY SCRAP COUNTZ to see what we wore this week!

Every Scrap Countz

2011-09-15T09:50:00.002-04:00

Go on over to my new blog: www.everyscrapcountz.blogspot.com for crabbing pics!

Here's a Note I Received Today...

2011-09-13T19:34:00.002-04:00

...from a parent in Cole's Kindergarten class:

Hi Meg,

I keep hoping to see you at school, but have missed you in the mornings! I just wanted to tell you that I sure am getting a kick out of hearing Natalie talk about her and Cole playing together at recess. They seem to have really hit it off. Did you know that last week he wrote her a note that said he loves her? She brought it home last week and it is adorable! It was decorated with stickers and in an envelope. Too cute!

Have a good rest of the week!

Nicole

A Day at the Oceanfront

2011-09-13T10:14:00.001-04:00

We headed to the Oceanfront this weekend so Bubba could "surf" on the big waves. When we arrived, he was ready to go.

He quickly looked fearful though as I watched from the sandy beach...

Unsure whether to smile or cry as Daddy lets go

anticipating the drop off...

and he dropped off:)

And the verdict is...

...He LOVED it!

And, he did this for hours with BIG smiles every ride!

And, Sissy saw those smiles, and wanted to get in on the action!

Ready, Set, Get Your Life Jacket On (before Mommy has a heart condition at age 30), and...

Go...

She was happy, but said, "No No I do it. Bubba do it."

For those of you still looking at our pics...here are some more from the fun day!

Motor Mouth

2011-09-12T09:27:00.000-04:00

to read more, go to www.everyscrapcountz.blogspot.com

It's the 3rd week of school and apparently kids are getting comfortable with Mrs. King. Cole has loved every second and has come home with a new friend every day. I guess he's made too many friends because he came home on Friday saying he had to move seats. I asked him if anyone else did, and he said no. I also asked him if he had to "move to yellow" (stop light behavior chart...green is best, yellow is next), and he again said "no". The best part of it all is that Mrs. King put him right next to the shyest girl in the class. She literally doesn't talk at all. She had to move to the yellow in PE because she would not participate. Now, the question will be: will Cole get her to talk.

This same thing happened last year. Cole was successful in getting SHY SARAH to laugh and talk!!

2nd Camping Trip

2011-09-09T13:09:00.001-04:00

Check out my new blog for more pics: www.everyscrapcountz.blogspot.com
Both kiddos seem to be great little campers. Thanks to the Cole family for always making it more fun by bringing every snack imaginable!

We stayed up eating smores and chatting til about 10. Then, everyone crashed quickly and awoke around 6:45. It was a great trip!

Cole's K Class Visitation

2011-09-07T11:10:00.000-04:00

Last night was Cole's Kindergarten Class Visitation. Mrs. King informed us of a lot, including that HOMEWORK will start today. Homework is serious stuff in Kindergarten!

Mrs. King also told us that she can already tell that Cole is "very bright". She said they've been learning patterns in math (ie: square/circle/square/circle). She had just mentioned to the students, in passing, that you can label the patterns "ABAB" or "ABCABC". Then, Cole went back to his seat and made patterns like instructed. Then, he took it upon himself to give each one of his patterns the appropriate pattern labels ("ABAB").

Cole has already mentioned that K is "very easy". I think Hutch and I are fine with him thinking it's easy as long as he's not bored (ie: behavior problems). Giftedness isn't tested until 2nd grade, so we've got a long road of thinking school is easy:)

Of course, part of us has to wonder whether Cole is truly gifted or if he's just smart. He has ALWAYS picked up on something the 1st time he's taught it (except disciplinary measures:)).

Bailey's In Trouble?

2011-09-01T14:39:00.000-04:00

I think most of you have learned that Bailey says most of her first words in each sentence twice. It's something I so want to remember because I know it'll be gone soon. Today as she was getting ready for nap time, I had told her twice to come over to me so I could put her diaper on. I guess she could hear in my voice that I was frustrated, so she came on over and said, "I I listen?". I think it's precious that she didn't even know if she WAS listening or not. With Cole as a big brother she probably is confused as to what LISTENING THE FIRST TIME even means:)

8 Years Ago...

2011-08-30T09:18:00.000-04:00

Bailey's Prayer

2011-08-29T20:27:00.002-04:00

For a couple weeks, Bailey has asked to bless the meal at dinnertime. Tonight we could actually understand her words mumbled together! It was the most precious prayer! She prayed, "Dear God, thank you for Bubba, Daddy, Mama, food, my tiny bear, Bubba's tiny bear. -Amen".

East Beach

2011-08-29T13:33:00.001-04:00

Our friend Rosemary moved away, and is missing our neighborhood. I can't even begin to imagine how much we'd miss it: the beach, the pool, the playground, the friends, the front porch parties, the random daily visitors...the list goes on forever! She asked Shannon to take pictures of East Beach. Well I had just seen my friend Becca's blog, where she made words out of surroundings. So, we went through the neighborhood (on golfcart, of course) and took pictures to spell EAST BEACH!

Homemade Sidewalk Chalk

2011-08-29T07:22:00.002-04:00

Go on over to www.everyscrapcountz.blogspot.com to get the recipe!

Blondies

2011-08-26T07:27:00.001-04:00

I photographed the most beautiful blonde family again this summer. Here is the sweet mama with her senior!

WWWW

2011-08-24T09:18:00.002-04:00

What We Wore Wednesday is going on at the other blog today: www.everyscrapcountz.blogspot.com

Bailey is Potty Trained

2011-08-23T20:36:00.001-04:00

I keep forgetting to post this. For weeks now, Bailey has been potty trained (or maybe I should say "Pee Pee Trained"). She poops during nap time in her diaper, but successfully pees all day long in the potty. She has pooed a couple times in the potty, but prefers to in her diaper during rest time. we're rolling with it! We just love her bum in undies!!!!

WBWW

2011-08-22T21:03:00.001-04:00

To those of you who still check this blog, I wanted to let you know that I will be doing What Bailey Wore Wednesday on the other blog now. I will post it at 7 a.m. every Wednesday!

Speaking of Bailey, she is talking so much these days! She's starting to stand up for herself too!

One Thing I Never Thought I'd Have To Say

2011-08-19T20:08:00.003-04:00

Geez, being a parent is hilarious sometimes! Hutch and I constantly have to turn our heads because we are dying laughing. Like tonight, when Cole randomly decided to smear his hamburger's ketchup on Bailey's cheek! I literally was forced to string these words together, "Cole, please don't smear your hamburger on your sister's face." What?!

The New Blog

2011-08-18T07:15:00.002-04:00

Thanks for taking the time to comment on my other blog: www.everyscrapcountz.blogspot.com! I am very excited to see what the Lord has in store.

I will continue to update this blog with personal stuff about our family and kiddos!

It's up and running!!!!

2011-08-17T16:53:00.002-04:00

Alright Coles Cove fans: my official blog is up and running! Head on over for your own private tour. Please comment (it takes 20 seconds) on as many posts as you wish! I will start telling others tomorrow, so enjoy your very own private viewing!

www.everyscrapcountz.blogspot.com

Notice that it has a "z" in it!!

Thanks to you all!
Meg

WBWW

2011-08-17T08:24:00.003-04:00

This was supposed to be my first post on my new blog (and it still will, if it's up today), but while you wait!!!

THIS ONE IS GONE! CONGRATS CHARLENE!
Brand: LeTop (http://www.letop-usa.com/shop/productgrid?section=girl&category=dresses)
Size: 3T
Price: $15 (originally $44)
This is one of my favs from this summer!!!

Brand: Every Scrap Countz hats (http://www.etsy.com/shop/everyscrapcountz)
Size: Toddler
Price: $15

Brand: Corkie Kids (http://www.corkyandcompany.info/)
Size: 3T
Price: $10 (originally $30)

THIS ONE IS GONE! CONGRATS EMILY!
Brand: Rosalina (http://www.childrenscottage.net/rojo.html)
Size: 2T
Price: $20 (originally $50)

THESE ARE GONE! CONGRATS CHARLENE!
Shoes
Brand: L'Amour (http://www.bestdressedchild.com/lamourshoes.html)
Size: 8
Price: $12 (originally $36)

Waiting...

2011-08-17T06:26:00.002-04:00

My blog designer will finish up my new blog this morning. So, my first post will hopefully be later today...

Senior Pics of Paige

2011-08-16T21:59:00.003-04:00

It's finally Paige's turn to do Senior Pictures! I've been taking fun pictures of her for years just because. She is one of my favorite models. She knows exactly what she wants. She even comes prepared with examples! Love this beautiful girl!

I am starting to do some photography (the kind where you start charging:) on the side. If you know of anyone who wants family, senior, XMas card (yes, I'm on the ball!) or other pics, just let me know!

Hopefully TOMORROW!!!

2011-08-16T17:04:00.000-04:00

My Fellow Blog Readers!

First of all, thank you so much for keeping up with us every day! I am humbled by the amount of traffic we get a day. To think you care about our lives touches me.

For a while now, I've dreamed about starting a big time blog. You know, the type where I share more than just cute pictures of my kids. The kind where you can take a tidbit or two and implement it into your home life.

So, hopefully tomorrow my new blog will make its debut. The "hopefully" is because I'm waiting on my awesome blog designer:) If indeed it does make a debut tomorrow, I will

a. definitely let you know in the morning
b. ask you a huge favor

I'd love for you, my fellow blog readers, to be the first to view and comment on my new blog. I'd love for every existing post (I think I already have 25) to have comments.

I'd also love for you to tell everyone you know about my new blog! The more traffic the better!

So, again, thank you so much for your commitment to my sweet family blog. I'll be seein' ya on the other side "hopefully" tomorrow!!! And, yes, I'll still post on this one too. More on that later.

Life's A Little Lonely Without...

2011-08-16T06:40:00.002-04:00

our little buddy around! (there's a good reason why I had a ladder out by the water...pics on new blog to come:)

The Love in a Family

2011-08-15T07:00:00.001-04:00

Do you ever get the feeling like you couldn't love your kids any more than you do? It's nearly impossible for me to feel any more love! Now granted, most/all of our days are spent fussing at each other, not listening the 1st time, and complaining, but I still get that sickening feeling of LOVE for my kids.

One thing I try to do is go in my kid's rooms every night to look at them. No matter how hard our day was, it refreshes me to see them so innocent and baby-like in their beds!

oh.my.goodness.

4.5 Years Later

2011-08-14T21:58:00.000-04:00

For the past 4.5 years I've poured my heart and soul into my youth ministry job at our church! I've loved every second of it, and have made some friendships that will last a lifetime. To think I started when I had one 1 year old, and now that same kid is starting Kindergarten. But, for months now I've felt God calling me out of that position. I am sad, scared, and somehow excited! I don't know exactly what is next, but am walking in faith through some open doors to see (one of which will be featured this week!!) Romans 8:28 say "And we know that in ALL THINGS God works for the good of those who love Him."

Our 3 Kids

2011-08-14T14:59:00.002-04:00

We have officially adopted Jackson! This morning was the morning of imagination. The boys tugged while Sissy watched!

Mommy & Me

2011-08-14T14:12:00.002-04:00

a little blurry, but still!!!

Love how this little girl's nose goes up when you kiss her!!!!

My Colie, the future photographer, took this one!!!

BFF's Forever

2011-08-14T08:27:00.001-04:00

Eve & Bailey, Jackson & Cole

A Rainbow

2011-08-13T13:20:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was one of those great days. Started with a beautiful rainbow and front porch time at 7a.m. with my buddy!!!

Popsicles on the Patio

2011-08-13T13:17:00.001-04:00

Jackson's Here to Stay!

2011-08-11T22:41:00.001-04:00

Well, we wish he was here to stay! He has practically lived here since he arrived! His mom wanted to take a picture of him so she could remember what he looks like! The boys have played hours up in "New Toys" (that's what we call the 3rd floor), running races around the block, & pretending to be on a boat. Today, Cole slept over 2 hours in rest time because he and his buddy have worn each other out! We love you JMan!!

They have done a really great job of including Sissy!

More Drawings

2011-08-11T07:08:00.001-04:00

This is one of my favorites that Cole drew this summer: a guitar!

a house:

people on stilks with balloons:

What Cole Wore Thursday!

2011-08-10T22:01:00.003-04:00

When my buddy saw me taking pictures of Bailey, he asked if I'd take some of him! We all know that boys clothes just aren't as amazing as girl's clothes. T-shirts, polos, button downs...that's about it! I love this boy! Only 12 more days til school starts. I have some fun Back To School ideas...coming soon on my new blog...more to come!

What Bailey Wore Wednesday

2011-08-10T10:17:00.005-04:00

If you're new here, I've started to link up to The Pleated Poppy, and participate in What I Wore Wednesday. The problem came to be that I failed miserably at dressing nicely on Wednesdays. But, my sweet girl is a fashionista, so I changed our version to "What Bailey Wore Wednesday". Also, I am displaying outfits on her that I am willing to sell (kinda like consignment) at the end of the summer. Comment below the pictures if you are interested in this outfit.

Brand: Patsy Aiken
Size: 3T
Price: $15 (originally $56)
Also, these outfits are as good as new!

Cole's Artwork

2011-08-10T06:48:00.001-04:00

A definite theme from Cole's summer has been crafts! Literally every day the boy creates many things. Even at friend's houses, he'll ask to color. So, I took pictures of a couple, and put them in a collage. I will be adding this to our yearly shutterfly book for 2011!

Amazing Summer Peach Salsa

2011-08-09T06:46:00.004-04:00

This is indeed the best summer peach salsa recipe we've ever had! Hutch has nearly overdosed. Anyway, check out the picture recipe for easy, amazing peach salsa:
chop these:

add vidalia onion, jalapenos, garlic, salt and pepper:

It is easy to jar salsa as well. Once you have the salsa in jars, put them in a deep pot. Fill with water and let boil for 5 minutes. The, the tops will pop once you take them out.

Water Rescue

2011-08-08T13:00:00.001-04:00

Remember me mentioning how water is a magnet for my kiddos. They immediately jump in. Well, during Peyton's photo shoot last week, my kids stripped into undies and were under water before I knew it!

And, because Bails got out over her head, Bubba had to do a water rescue. He felt like a true hero, telling everyone for days!

A(nother) Beach Day with Friends

2011-08-07T14:46:00.006-04:00

Pakee Pie and Reed came to our beach today after church! We almost left Pakee at home with her mom and dad, but these girls are at the age now where they understand that their bubbas are playing and they're not!

Golf Cart Ride to the beach. May be one of our last because I accidentally drove off with the charger plugged in. Apparently a charger is over $1000! Our golfcart didn't even cost half that!

Cole has perfected standing on his boogie board...

And, he's up! Notice his buddy Jackson right by his side, cheering him on!

Scuba Pakee

Sweet Friends!!

It Just Keeps Getting Better

2011-08-06T14:14:00.003-04:00

Our beach days seem to get better every single time we go. Hutch had borrowed someone's paddle board, so between that and Corey's kayak, we had a blast!

This big boy sure does take care of his sis!

His sis got out too far, and he rescued her and put her on his boogie board.

THIS PIC is in my top 5 favs from this summer.

These 2 love the water. It's like a magnet, as soon as they see it, they immediately jump right in...to their necks!

I promise he did not land on her head.

How many does your kayak hold?

Hutch gave paddle board rides to everyone!

Tug boat!

Ahh! What a fun summer day!

Bamboozled

2011-08-05T17:58:00.002-04:00

It appeared I may have gotten bamboozled by my local "expert" gardener. Yesterday I sprayed my beautiful, flourishing, bright green leaves as directed, and this morning, I awoke to tons of fallen leaves and a sad pepper plant.

Although, this is another pepper plant I sprayed, and it looks great. Sure hope I wasn't bamboozled!

My Poor Peppers

2011-08-05T07:12:00.001-04:00

After being plagued by this same thing last year, I called our local garden store to ask what was happening to our poor peppers. Apparently they are lacking calcium, so a little Blossom-End Rot Spray and Garden Lime should fix our problem. We will see!

Editing Program or Lack of

2011-08-04T22:03:00.002-04:00

Ugh, my editing program hasn't been working. Hutch has tried everything he knows to fix it. I guess I'm learning that a true photographer shouldn't need an editing program:) I kid, I kid! I've missed it terribly. Here's to some unedited pics of my sweet nephew!

Peach Jam

2011-08-04T06:45:00.002-04:00

Remember our produce we picked at the Peach Orchard? Here it all is on my kitchen counter. We HAD to figure out what to do with all this stuff. So, we started with peach jam.

Here's how: chop 4 cups of peaches.

Mix in 1 box of Sure Jell.

Bring to a rolling boil.

Add 4 cups of sugar, and bring it back to a rolling boil for 1 minute.

Ladle into jars and wipe them clean.

Put jars in a pot, fill with water, and boil for 5 minutes. It is so yummy! Shouldn't it be since the ratio of fruit to sugar is 1:1!!

What Bailey Wore Wednesday

2011-08-03T15:16:00.001-04:00

I am starting to participate in another blog theme called: What I Wore Wednesday. The problem is: I don't dress very trendy most of the time. My style is too simple. But, my fashionista daughter will do the trick. So, here's to my first ever: WHAT BAILEY WORE WEDNESDAY!

And (to those who care), I'm starting to sell Bailey's adorable, over the top, hand-me-downs (they're actually in perfect condition. Have you ever seen this girl's closet...Need I go on?). So, if you ever see an outfit you want on What Bailey Wore Wednesday, just comment below and I'll get in touch with you.

Cousins

2011-08-03T15:04:00.004-04:00

I did a little photoshoot of my nephew this a.m. on the beach. Everyone started out clean, but the closer we got to the beach, the more the layers came off.

Oh my! If I was the grandma of this bunch, I'd be in heaven! Could they get any cuter?! (Okay, I'm biased, I know!)

Having fun in undies!

Peach Picking

2011-08-03T08:10:00.013-04:00

We packed up yesterday morning, in hopes of picking lots of peaches. None of us had ever gone before. After an hour drive, we drove down a long dirt road, hoping we were in the right place!

We squealed when we saw tons of peach covered trees! We got each kid a $12 bag to fill.

The amount of peaches on the ground was unbelievable! (So was the amount of dragonflies!)

If you weren't careful, you'd step right in 'em!

Evie started to run away, but we had 2 little helpers that brought her back to our CAR...Ahem...that you could drive right up to the trees!

There's something about Shannon and I both that makes us crazy pickers. We act as if we'd been starving for days, and we finally landed on a peach orchard. We picked so many that we almost couldn't fit them all in my van. Then, we get them home, feeling overwhelmed with how to use them all!

No this picture wasn't staged or anything! (Remember my desire to be in more pictures, even if it is my backside!)

After picking, we went over to look at the water and let the kids run. Then, we called it a day, and started to drive back down that long dirt road.

Until we noticed there were apple trees on our left! We asked the little girl (how funny that kids work these places...country life seems awesome!) when the apples would be in season. "TODAY"!!! So, all hot and sweaty, we got out again, and picked many more bags.

Then, we got back in our car to leave for the 2nd time, and we noticed this tomato stand. Of course, no one was working it, so Shannon left some money and grabbed some tomatoes! What a perfect and sticky day in peachland!

Photo Shoot Gone Bad.

2011-08-02T09:38:00.001-04:00

Off to peach pick...will post more later!

Children's Museum

2011-08-01T13:31:00.004-04:00

What a morning! We went to the New & Improved Children's Museum. It was amazing, to say the least! My kids pretended to: drive a bus, grocery shop, be a vet, be a fireman, play music, race little cars, drive a tugboat and so much more. It was one of the highlights of our summer, for sure! I honestly have as much fun as them! I intentionally left my cell phone in the car, so I could be 100% present.

Oh.My.Goodness.

2011-08-01T07:56:00.004-04:00

Could she love him any more? It's definitely a love hard/hate hard relationship. When her Bubba upsets her, she will BITE him, and only him. Thank God she reserves it for her sweet brother!

And, she looks so innocent!

Our neighbor offered to take a picture of our family yesterday before church! It's in pictures like these that I realize we are definitely parents! For some reason, I still feel 20 most days, but when I see this family of 4, I realize we have arrived! We have become a minivan-driving, 5:30 dinner-eating, smocked dress-wearin' family!

Friends in Town

2011-07-31T07:11:00.001-04:00

Sweet Nathan and his family are back in town, doing research on their family lineage. I've never even thought about mine before, but wow, theirs is interesting!

Bailey demanding to be in their photo! Becca and I were roommates in college. When she realized that Nathan didn't have a hat for the pool, she made one out of a onesie. Mamas these days are so innovative!

My Beautiful Hydrangeas

2011-07-30T07:22:00.003-04:00

Check out my beautiful hydrangeas. This picture really doesn't show them well. They are over 7 feet tall, and they hang over my front porch, right by my front door! They are so beautiful that I often have neighbors stop by to take a bouquet home.

a bare pot on the front porch

fixed!

I decorate our house with them too! I will be sad when their time is up for the year. I can feel it approaching.

She's Missed Him.

2011-07-29T14:33:00.002-04:00

Can you tell that the little sis in our house has missed her brother? He has been at camp this week, and she can't hug him enough when he finally gets home every afternoon!

The Coastal Living House

2011-07-29T10:12:00.006-04:00

Okay, here are the pics I took from last night's viewing. Please don't look at my photography; I didn't worry about settings. I was trying to hurry because I didn't know if I was even allowed to take pics. Turns out, I was allowed. phew!!!

There were actually 4 frames of flipflops in the kitchen nook. Adorable!

The backyard view. Probably nothing to copy here, but it was beautiful!

Neat way to store flip flops!

I've never used groups of 3's on a table, but this looked cute!

Kitchen nook cushions. Framed flip flops were above this seat.

Decorating stairs. I've never thought of that. Don't really love it, but that's just me.

Place a mirror outside, and it'll reflect the clouds. Cute!

Bay window seats

oars around a circular mirror: LOVE!!!

The other bay window seat. Those huge cushions were screaming: SIT ON ME!!!! There you have it! The next Coastal Living House tour!

Famous Neighborhood

2011-07-28T19:20:00.003-04:00

Just a couple streets over from our house is this house. It just happens to be the next Coastal Living House. We got to take a tour of it tonight, with our neighbors, and it was SO DANG BEAUTIFUL! I took pics of some neat things inside that you could actually make yourself. My brain is now spinning! More to come!

Bailey is Swimming.

2011-07-28T12:51:00.002-04:00

Bails is 2 years and 4 months, and can swim half the width of the pool! We thought Cole was a great swimmer, but he'll need to watch out because his little sis is incredible! I'm going to try to remember to bring our video camera soon to get it on film. It's amazing!

My (Kid's) New Kitchen

2011-07-28T07:53:00.002-04:00

After I took that picture of my kid's kitchen, I realized how icky that plastic piece looked, so I fixed it!

The new and improved menu chalkboard:

What's in your Kitchen?

2011-07-27T21:59:00.002-04:00

Ever stocked your (kid's) kitchen for free? I copied a friend a long time ago, and started putting my old containers in my kid's kitchen. Pepper shaker, jelly squeeze bottle, mustard bottle, you name it! Of course, it is most kids favorite section of our house! Don't they always want the real stuff!

Take a good look at this kitchen door; the one with the plastic window and stacked up cupcakes in full view. I will show a new and improved picture soon! I'm kinda proud of myself!

What I Wore Wednesday

2011-07-27T07:35:00.002-04:00

I just had to laugh at myself when I tried, yes tried, to participate in a blog theme called: What I Wore Wednesday. See, I typically wear a bathing suit all day long, so it felt challenging to put an outfit together. I seriously tried, and all I came up with was shorts and a tank top. Oh wait, then I added earrings. I'm a mess! Good thing Bailey (and Nana) have good fashion sense because she knows how to pull a perfect outfit together!

Another great way to get a kid to smile for a pic: pretend to throw a ball at them. Or, in this case, a plum!

Playing House

2011-07-26T10:25:00.004-04:00

I stalk an awesome, very popular blog every day, and I'm not even embarrassed to say it. You should stalk it too. Warning: you may get stuck there for hours. She has a fun post about playing house.

I caught my two playing house on the front porch today.

Etsy Shop

2011-07-25T14:01:00.002-04:00

Since many of you are asking, I decided to create an Etsy Shop for my headbands and other goodies! It is still in the works, but you can purchase now! Check it out by clicking HERE, or you can go to: http://www.etsy.com/shop/megrhutch .

The Best Headband Ever

2011-07-25T07:43:00.001-04:00

If you know me well, you know I LOVE headbands. I think I love them so much because I hate doing my hair, and wearing a headband fixes that! I sewed these the other day, and have worn them ever since!!! And the best part about them: they are reversible. So, it's actually 2 headbands in one!!!

Fun at the Lake

2011-07-24T20:15:00.007-04:00

Ever dread car rides with young kids?

Since my 5 year old son is smarter than me, he talked me into buying these $10 MELISSA & DOUG boards from Marshalls. The kids literally colored on them for hours. Don't get me wrong; they weren't quiet hours. One of them would drop a marker, while the other one was annoyed that their markers tip wasn't sharp enough! Or, better yet, Cole would draw a train when Bailey asked for him to draw a sailboat. Sheesh! A 3 hour car ride can make a mama crazy! But, the $10 boards were well worth it.

Why does being a goofball come so naturally to Cole!

I'm trying to do a better job at getting in pictures. I fear that when Cole & Bailey grow up, they won't have many with me actually in them. So, here ya go! (Bails wasn't havin' it.)

Bailey loved the 87 degree lake water! Notice how her hair is reflecting the lovely greenish/brownish lake color. Yummy!

Goofball. Why yes!

Hutch got to have a little of his own fun too! I opted to stay on the boat, since I ate it (then, sliced my foot open) trying to plant my bottom in a tube. Seriously, how hard can it be!

Wind blown and water logged!

Welcome Back!

2011-07-24T16:13:00.002-04:00

We just got back from a weekend at Mimi and Pappy's house! More pics to come, but thought these were adorable, especially the one of my goofy boy ACTUALLY smiling!!!

"Do Dat Den"

2011-07-24T13:53:00.001-04:00

I seriously can't hear that phrase enough from this little girl. Anytime she wants you to do something again, she says, "Do dat den".

My Big Boy

2011-07-22T14:26:00.002-04:00

How has this boy grown up so fast?!

from 2011-2006
I have a smiley pic of Cole for 2011, but since this is his year of goofy smiles, I figured it was fitting!

Another Photography Tip

2011-07-22T07:54:00.002-04:00

Here's another tip for ya: find the light inside (or at least partially inside!!) your house, so you don't always have to take shots outside, especially in this heat! For yesterday's pictures, I opened the window, sat the kids in it, and I stood outside. It gave me good light on their faces, and a dark background!

In order to get a good picture...

2011-07-22T07:42:00.002-04:00

...this is what I go through: lots of bribing and lots of Mommy potty noises. You may think by looking at just one perfect picture that I can put my kids anywhere and they'll perform. But, on any given day I take a couple hundred pictures. In order to get a perfect one, I think you should take at least a hundred!

see they're copying me with the potty noises:

Scroll to my next post and you'll see the one I was trying for!!!

What's In a Good Photo?

2011-07-21T21:01:00.002-04:00

A dear friend and I were talking about how hard it is to get a good photo of young children. We both admitted to saying potty words to make our kids smile for the camera! Tomorrow I will show the other pictures from this series. Trust me, it'll make you feel better about the shots you get! And, I promise, if you're patient enough, you can get one, JUST ONE, almost perfect shot!

Jarring Banana Peppers

2011-07-20T19:38:00.002-04:00

For a couple years now I've been jarring banana peppers. It's actually the simplest jarring item I know of. You should try it out. Here is how:

Get your 5 year old to pick banana peppers from the garden.

Chop them however thick you'd like.

This was 10 banana peppers, and made 3 full jars.

Measure equal parts white vinegar and water. For 3 jars, I used about 2 cups vinegar and 2 cups water.

Bring to a rapid boil.

Put a clove of garlic in the bottom of each jar. Then, pack each jar full of peppers, and pour your boiled vinegar/water mixture to top of jar. Put lids on, and it will seal itself.

Viola! Enjoy for up to one year, and do it all over again!

We Love SpongeBob...

2011-07-20T14:05:00.002-04:00

...cookies, that is. We actually really, really don't like SpongeBob, but then we found these at our local Food Lion, we couldn't contain ourselves. Cole literally colored these cookies for hours!

Headbands Galore

2011-07-19T08:22:00.003-04:00

Aren't you so glad I'm posting a self-taken picture of ME! How silly! But, I have started making these headbands (with the help of my genius friend, Shannon)! They are reversible with elastic at the bottom. Super cute, especially with a pony tail.

I will refrain from enlarging this pic!

"My Fishy"

2011-07-18T09:25:00.001-04:00

Bailey came running from the water yesterday singing, "my fishy, my fishy, grab it". She proceeded to take care of her fishy and love on her fishy as if it were a baby doll.

Brother kissed Fishy.

Mama Bailey kissed Fishy.

She let Fishy nap in a bucket. And, since Hutch and I couldn't stand it any longer, we told her that Fishy had to go back and swim in the water. It was fun while it lasted!!

Life is TOO Good At The Beach.

2011-07-17T20:56:00.001-04:00

Just Another Day In...

2011-07-16T21:07:00.005-04:00

You know the saying! Just another day in paradise! Truly our summers are like one huge vacation. Our biggest decision each morning is: which bathing suit should I wear!

Why does my son pose for each picture? I can only imagine what he's going to be like at 16!

Taking turns paddle boarding (or, riding on a wind-surfing board with a kayak paddle...we know how to improvise for good fun!!)

Don't you love when you get to the beach and the hole's already been dug for you?! It's such a special treat. At least Avery thought so! She sat in the hole for over an hour! Miss Shannon tried to keep the younger girls from pouring sand in each other's hair.

Then, she took them for a walk to see really smiley sun bathing strangers.

Once again, Cole is being goofy while Blake smiles for the camera!

Goodbye Liam

2011-07-16T14:29:00.001-04:00

Our dear friends and neighbors are moving to Cape Cod! I took some pics of them in front of their house this morning. I'm still editing them, but couldn't help but post this Ralph Lauren Polo boy model from my shoot!!!

Toy Swap

2011-07-14T22:32:00.001-04:00

We've been swapping toys this week; not with friends, just with each other. We've worn lots and lots of Bailey's new necklaces, while she's taken a try at her Bubba's new megaphone. Having a sibling, I believe, is the BEST way to learn to share. So healthy, so challenging, yet so good...all at the same time!

Potty Day whatever

2011-07-14T19:59:00.001-04:00

We've been doing this potty thing for almost a week now. She has mastered peeing, but still struggles with poo. Like today, at our Botanical Gardens, she pooed right in her bathing suit, and didn't even flinch! Gross! I'm trying not to stress about it. She will master it soon. And, if she's gonna master one, I think I'd rather it be the one she does ALL DAY LONG.

FREE Peach Pit Craft

2011-07-14T06:53:00.001-04:00

I found this craft online , and love that I had everything at home to make it.

A Picture Craft:

BFF

2011-07-13T13:47:00.003-04:00

These two have become BFFs this summer. Trust me, they fight like cats and dogs, but they play well too! Cole has been so sweet to play babies with his sis this week. I secretly think he enjoys it! Anyway, here's to my 2 goofy buddies...

a unique trait about Bailey: she says most 1st sounds of words twice (ie: hahahot, mymymy baby, barbiebarbie one.)

unique trait about Bubba: He could fully function on his own. This morning I came down from putting on my "lut lut" and Cole had made and packed all 3 of our sandwiches. He also takes his sis to the potty, without being asked. He has such a servant's heart!

I LOVE Melissa & Doug.

2011-07-13T08:11:00.001-04:00

I really do. I get so excited when I get a new piece. Yesterday, we went to Marshalls and got these awesome things. Things to string. Necklaces to make. Bears to build. Puzzle to assemble. We've been busy at work!!

Cole made me my own pattern necklace.

Remember Sand Art?

2011-07-12T08:17:00.004-04:00

Do you remember doing Sand Art as a kid? I have fond memories of this stuff. Well, I just happened to find it for $3 at Marshalls, so Cole got a taste for it himself!

He worked very diligently, while I tried to keep my mouth closed as he mixed colors that didn't look great! That's a hard job as a mom- to let your kids be creative without micromanaging!

Of course, he wanted to GOOFY it up for the camera!

Admiring his work...and his dirty, summertime fingernails!!!

The final products AND an hour long activity DONE!

I often wonder if he's gifted.

2011-07-11T12:42:00.006-04:00

At 12:41 today, Cole (5 years, 3 months) said, "Bailey takes a nap in 19 minutes". How in the world does he know that? I asked him how he knew that and he said, "Well, take 20 minutes minus 1 minute and you get 19 minutes".

Our friend recommended Bridge Books for summer time educational fun. Cole has done a couple pages a day, and loves it so much. When his buddy, Jackson, was in town, Cole wanted to "do math". So, they went up in Cole's room, and came down an hour later with handwritten simple math equations like 5+6=11.

More Pics of Isaac

2011-07-11T07:12:00.001-04:00

Here are a few more pics from my photoshoot the other day with Isaac. There's nothin' like a mama's love for her boy!

Potty Training Day 3

2011-07-10T20:30:00.002-04:00

This morning when Bails woke up she didn't want to take her diaper off. I went with it and thought maybe she had scared herself by pooing in her bathing suit yesterday. After an hour, she was peepeeing on the potty again. She pooed in her undies mid morning! Then, after napping in her diaper, she wanted to keep it on again. So, who knows what's going on, but we're rolling with it.

Easy, Yummy Pasta Recipe

2011-07-10T12:37:00.003-04:00

I've spent the day in the kitchen, while the kids have played. I made dinner for 6 tonight (mexican theme) for our Sunday Night Bible Study. Then I made meals for 3 families, who just had babies. I thought it'd be most efficient to make all 3 + 1 at the same time. Efficient indeed; tiring too! My kids had the pasta for lunch, and they gobbled it up. It really is delicious (isn't everything delicious with heavy cream and butter!).

Recipe for Pasta With Creamy Herb Sauce:
1.5 cups heavy cream
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 tsp. salt
pinch cayenne pepper
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1 cup finely chopped mixed fresh herbs (basil, parsley, mint, chives, etc)...I just used basil.
1 pound angel hair pasta

*Combine first 5 ingredients in saucepan and simmer 15 minutes.
*Whisk in cheese and herbs and simmer 5 minutes longer.
*Serve over cooked pasta.

She kept begging for more sauce!

Potty Training Day 2

2011-07-09T15:49:00.000-04:00

Bailey has gone pee in the potty all day long, and even held it for a long time in her carseat, even though she had to go. But, at the pool, she pooped in her "Lut Lut" (bathing suit). I'll spare you the details. I do remember with Cole that poo took a little longer to master than pee...

Pool Playdate

2011-07-09T15:47:00.001-04:00

Our friends, The Neals, came to our pool last week. I know I say this too much, but life happens so quickly. It seems like yesterday that Caleb and Cole were babies in Gymboree Class together. Now, they have 2 year old sisters, who enjoy dumping cups of water...on each other's heads. Bailey giggled as Ashley dumped!!

Then, Bailey called Ashley for revenge!

All while the brothers acted goofy, demanding a picture of themselves!

Potty Training Day 1

2011-07-08T21:11:00.003-04:00

For the past couple days, I've been thinking about it. Bailey has shown me for months now that she's ready. She's been saying, "No diapers", and she's even been going peepee on the potty for months now on her own. So, since we had the time this morning, I gave it a shot. It was flawless. After 3 times of me helping her, she told me, "No help Mommy."

Not a single accident all day...well, until we went out to dinner! She made it through dinner, went potty before we left, and wet her car seat on the ride home! (Just as a side note...during her nap I put a diaper on her and she did poo in it. We'll tackle that tomorrow hopefully!)

She is so excited about her Princess and Dora ("Da-Do") undies, and is insisting on not wearing any more diapers. I'm ready too! I can't believe I'll have 2 kids in undies. Ugh, another reminder that they're growing up!

Is She Looking More Like Me?

2011-07-08T06:22:00.001-04:00

Some of my friends keeps telling me that my girl is starting to look more like me. I tried to find a good comparison picture of me at 2, but couldn't find one that made us look alike:) What do you think? (Keep in mind that every couple months I ask this question. It's not that I want her to look like me, it's just a fun game!)

The Smead's Baby

2011-07-07T15:14:00.003-04:00

Our friends, The Smeads, had a baby boy 2 weeks ago. I went over this morning to do a photoshoot. I love every single thing about newborns. The fuzzy hair on their faces, their peely skin, their smell, the way they gulp when they nurse, their crinkled back...I could go on and on. And, I'd have a million of them if I could! But, since having a million children probably wouldn't be smart, I'll just enjoy my friends' babies!!!

Playing with Boats

2011-07-07T15:12:00.001-04:00

These 2 played with Cole's boats all morning long! So cute!!!

It's Hard To Think Last Year This Time...

2011-07-05T14:21:00.001-04:00

...Bailey was sporting this thing. (Notice it's that same outfit Eve had on!)

It feels like FOREVER ago NOW!

Mimi & Pappy Came To Town

2011-07-05T07:39:00.001-04:00

Cole cried big tears when Mimi and Pappy left yesterday! They are such good sports, as we drag them to swim team, sailboating, and the neighborhood parade. They spent hours helping us design ice cream bars for our pretend truck. And, all of it, without complaining! Thanks Mimi and Pappy for a great weekend.

P.S. When we built the ice cream truck frame, we didn't consider how we'd get adults in the thing. Sweet Mimi got in there (and stayed in there!)! What a trooper!