The Kavicky story

Playing Bob the builder

2012-02-12T12:34:00.000-06:00

I love these classic kids cartoons like Bob the builder. Not only are they on Netflix, but we already have the toys stored away in the attic! Love hand me downs!!

The Harlem Globetrotters

2012-02-12T12:30:00.000-06:00

For Cub Scouts, they had a "go see it" at the Harlem Globetrotters game. Eric said he voted for the hockey game, so he wasn't going. I was thrilled to get to go to the Globetrotters! Growing up in Indiana, everyone LOVES basketball!!

My date and I at the game

Jacob, Too Tall, and Jeffrey

This was my favorite player, Tiny. Tiny is the world's largest (in the Guinness book!) professional basketball player at 7 ft 8 in. He grew up in England and mainly played soccer. He grew a foot between the ages of 16 and 17. His dad is 6 ft 8 in. His mom is only 5 ft 5 in.

But Mama, I like your shoes

2012-02-12T07:54:00.000-06:00

I tried to catch a side shot, but he was too quick! He was walking around the house wearing my high heeled shoes. I think he liked the noise they made when he walked. It was too cute!

Josh dancing all his cares away!

2012-02-12T07:06:00.002-06:00

New Years Day Celebrating

2012-02-12T07:05:00.000-06:00

We brought in the New Year by Celebrating at Incredible Pizza. It's kinda like a Chuckie Cheese on steriods! I was impressed by this crane machine. It was HUGE!

I made Jacob stand by it to see the enormity of it! With my dad in the crane machine business, these things catch my eye.

Look at the size of that claw!!!

We did do other things than look at the crane. Josh loved all the rides. Jacob got to play laser tag for the first time. We had a blast. Going when they first opened was a great plan. It wasn't very busy!!

Joshy

2012-02-11T21:26:00.000-06:00

I was trying to take some pics of some of Josh's toys he NEVER plays with to list on craigslist and ebay......then he decides to play with them! I guess we're keeping the giraffe a little while longer!

Josh LOVES his Cookie! Cookie is the Fur Real Doggie that he got for Christmas. Here he is riding her! When he's mad or frustrated, I've seen him spank her too! Finally something he gets to CONTROL and take care of!

New Year's eve partying

2012-02-11T19:40:00.000-06:00

We celebrated New Years Eve with our classic 7 layer dip! Josh has decided that anything you dip, is delicious!

This boy likes his food HOT, those are jalepenos he's enjoying!

Josh also decided that he likes jalepenos. Anything that Daddy and Jacob like, so will he!
(like his blue camo with brown camo? Has to be a daddy dressed day!)

DAC irun New Year's Eve 10K

2012-02-11T19:31:00.000-06:00

I was glad to do a race in Collierville. Eric stayed home with the boys. I was kinda nervous about whether or not I could make it 10 kilometers, or 6.2 miles! As I pulled into the park that the race was at, they were already closing part of the streets.

This is my wonderul self portrait before the race! Nervous as all get out!

My lesson I learned, "If you know the route, don't follow the pack." I don't know if it was the runner in the lead, or the volunteer pointing us in the wrong direction, but we ended up getting off course and the 6.2 mile race ended up 7.5 miles! Yes, I was able to run the WHOLE thing! I made it in 1:19:46. I think I can do that half now!

A day at the Children's Museum

2012-02-11T15:21:00.001-06:00

I think y'all who follow me, understand, I hate to stay home for too long! Always have and probably always will! So, during Christmas break I took the boys to the Children's museum. I've actually learned to like it. I've learned to stop my expectations that the kids will play with the "stuff" like they are supposed to and just follow them and watch them. We had so much fun! I didn't even look at my watch until the end because I was getting hungry! Honest!!

Josh had fun "driving" all the cars

Buddy teaching the boys about the engine.

Josh, driving again!

Jacob and I loved this exhibit. They had diagrams for making paper airplanes, then they had this machine that would launch your airplane. I don't remember which plane was better, but we sure laughed!

Then there was the television studio. Jacob was surfing to the Beatles song. Behind me was a big screen that showed the background with us on it. Above Jacob was a fan that was blowing mimicking the ocean breezes.

He tried some rock n roll too!

Peek a boo Josh!

Driving....AGAIN! This time the fire truck

Jacob has always loved the grocery store here. Josh loved it too. He picked out lobster, cheese, and fruit. I think I may like that meal!

Love the action shot of him dropping the ice cream. Guess he didn't want that!

The boys played for awhile inthe river tryig to catch some fish! They did good, but we threw them back in. =D

Only in Memphis with the world headquarters of Fed Ex would they have this exhibit. You get to throw packages on a belt for them to load up in the airplane.

Jacob and Josh (and Buddy) loaded up all their packages.

Then they come out of the back of the airplane again!

This has always been Jacob's favorite, flying the airplane.

Click here for last year's visit.
Click here for Josh's first visit.

Gliding on ice

2012-02-11T09:03:00.001-06:00

Eric joined us for our day on the ice. It's a good thing too! Josh wanted no part of the ice. He freaked out when we were out on it. So his stint out there didn't last long! But Eric and I swapped back and forth skating with Jacob.

Jacob loved it! He did SO MUCH better than last year. I guess all the roller skating he's done lately has helped him!

These are the fun times during his Christmas break from school that I hope he remembers!

Click here for last year's ice skating. Jacob's first time!

The Christmas Card (and the letter that wasn't)

2012-02-11T08:52:00.001-06:00

Above: is the Christmas card that we sent out this year. It was due time for another family photo. We hadn't had one taken since Josh was 5 months old. He did great for these pics! I thought they turned out cute!

Below: The Christmas letter I wrote, but Eric and I just coudln't agree on everything for me to send it! LOL, so instead I'll post it on my blog for all to see! =D

Twas the night before Christmas and

choo choos were on the TV with Josh's eyes watching.
The beyblades were a spinnin' with Jacob' ripping.
The stockings were spread all over the house,
in hopes that St. Nicholas might come to clean.

The children were being corraled toward their bed
with threats of Santa's arrival in their head.
Mama was preparing for her morning run and
Daddy was out in the garage tinkering with engines again.

When out on the lawn rose such a clatter,
The dogs were all barking and causing a scene.
The neighbors came out on their lawns to see,
what those Kavicky's were up to this time.

When out of the corner of my eye I saw,
Jacob come running with his DS to take some pictures.
While Josh stood there saying "Uh oh Mama",
And what do I see, but a speck in the sky.

Then in a sec it landed in the back of the truck,
superman, shooting comet, or mighty mouse,no?
It was the jolly St. Nicholas landing in the big truck.
He exclaimed a leak in the sleigh and asked for a mechanic.

Out came Eric to save the day or Christmas for that matter.
The dogs were a sniffing , and Josh was running wild,
Jacob was racing the elves and Mom was trying to find
hot cocoa, cookies, or anything in that kitchen.

Then in a matter of time Eric had that old sleigh working
Santa was glad to have his sleigh, and not the army truck that night.
Josh had all of Santa's presents spread all over the yard.
Jacob was teaching the elves how to play soccer
and whispering good bye to his elf, named Nick.

Finally Santa, the elves, and the reindeer were ready
to conquer their night and in a hurry.
For those Kavickys were fun but crazy.
As they rode off Santa hollared, "Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!"

We're thankful especially at this time of year for all of Christ's blessings to allow us to enjoy even the make believe side of Christmas with Santa and the Elves.

Love, The Kavickys
Eric, Kristi, Jacob, and Josh

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. Ephesians 1:3

Look at those precious faces! Who would think that either one of them could cause any sort of trouble?

Josh- my curious, pushing the limits, loves to read books and play with trains, loves the outdoors 22 month old!

Jacob- my wanting to please, rule following, loves his friends and family, loyal sweet 7 year old!

Click here for last years Christmas card.

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

2012-02-09T08:14:00.000-06:00

It must've killed them to have to sit in front of the tree for pictures with their unopened presents!

Daddy got a Brita water pitcher from my Mom and Dad.

But even more exciting, was the money it was filled with!

No present is too big for this boy to tackle! His strategy this year was to open and play with each present as we went along. It took him FOREVER to get his presents open!

Tackling his stocking!

A Fed Ex truck! Only Santa could've known he'd have a special interest in Fed Ex!

I love the magic hat! He even had to wear this thing in Target when we were running errands one day!

Uh Oh!! A dart gun!

Yes I did take some pics of Jacob opening presents. His plan of action was to open all the presents as fast as he could then decide on the best toy to play with first!

Their joint gift....the dart guns!

Yes, my pictures posted out of order again....so here is the untouched stockings as Santa left them.

What a loot! Santa must've thought we'd been good this year! =D

Click here for Josh's 1st Christmas (and Jacob's 6th).
Click here for the one before Josh's arrival and Jacob's 5th.
Click here for Jacob's 4th Christmas.

The night before Christmas

2012-02-06T08:01:00.001-06:00

We always go to the Christmas Eve service the night before Christmas. I love the service and singing Christmas Carols with everyone. It always puts me in the Christmas spirit by the time we leave. My handsome boys above!

Love these 2!!

Click here for last year's Christmas Eve post.
Click here for 2 years ago.
Click here for 3 years ago.

Preparing for present time!

2012-02-04T21:48:00.000-06:00

Jacob was a big help this year. He wanted to learn how to wrap presents. So I totally let him help! I'm "over" how they look, and "into" letting my kids help! He loved it and was so proud of his work!

Josh got a musical Christmas card from Grandma Becky and Grandpa Wayne. He carried that thing around the house playing the music for days!

Walker bags

2012-02-04T21:43:00.001-06:00

1st of all, I'll apologize for these pics posting sideways. They are rotated correctly in the folder I have them saved in. But I'm not computer savvy enough to know why they keep rotating when I blog them. Anyway....

I made these two walker bags for my Grandma and Eric's grandma. The above blue one is for my Grandma Stockman. Her favorite color is blue. I picked the fabric out to make her placemats several years ago, and never did....so like alot of projects! But anywho, I decided that this Christmas she needed a bag for her walker. Not only to haul stuff around with her, but to help her identify her walker amongst the many at the dining hall, ect.

This is the one that I made for Eric's Grandma, Grandma Koepke.

Grandma Koepke loved hers and had the staff take a picture to show me! So glad I could think of something to do special for our Grandma's this year!

The Elf on the Shelf

2012-02-02T03:10:00.001-06:00

Jacob had a blast with his Elf on the Shelf this year. His friend's elf was always getting into mischief. Which made Nick have to step up his game. He didn't always do crazy things, but here are some of the more than ordinary things he did!

One of the rules with the elf on the shelf is that the child is not supposed to touch the elf. However we had an incident where Nick fell over...Jacob wanted to make sure that Nick was ok and not upset with him. He didn't want any reports to Santa otherwise! So, Jacob wrote alot of notes to Nick this year.

Nick also had to be careful to appear above anywhere that Josh could get to him. Who knows what would've happened to Nick if that happened. Josh would've definitely been put on the naughty list then!

Jacob loved Nick so much that he cried on Christmas Eve when Nick had to go back home to the North Pole!

Click here for Nick in 2010.

A Crafty Christmas Party

2012-01-31T21:24:00.000-06:00

We had the Moore's grandkids over for a crafty Christmas party. I think the kids had fun. But I enjoyed myself! We made salt dough ornaments. They had so much fun cutting out the ornaments from the dough. We had 4 pans of ornaments to bake. They baked quickly and once cooled the kids had fun painting them.

Josh even had fun with the dough and craftiness!

It was mostly the girls doing the ornaments.

The boys had more fun playing swords! I kinda figured it would end up this way.

We then had a little Christmas exchange between the kids.

I also pulled out some of my plain ornaments and let them paint.

I know I had fun! This may become an annual event! I love these kids! I was the only adult (their mommas were at work and grandma didn't feel good), and it was piece of cake. Says something about good kids with a 7:1 child:adult ratio!

Ronald McDonald house

2012-01-31T09:06:00.000-06:00

Each year at Rossville, each class picks a charity or service project that they will do. Our class has donated toys at Christmas time to the Ronald McDonald house. The parents rarely get a chance to go shopping for toys for their kids, so Ronald Mcdonald sets up a shop for them with donated toys. It's super easy to facilitate this project, and the kids get to pick out something and think of another child. It was really sweet, but this year the kids surrounded the gifts and lifted prayers for the kids who will receive the toys. It was the sweetest moment ever! After school one day, G and his mom, and Josh, Jacob and I all went to lunch at Spaghetti Warehouse. Jacob and I love this place. It's super laid back, there's a trolley inside the building, and just kid friendly food. Then after our meal, we headed to the Ronald McDonald house and hauled the load of gifts his class collected. Praise be to God for all the little lives that were involved with this project!

The Gingerbread house tradition

2012-01-31T08:31:00.000-06:00

We found my favorite gingerbread house kit! yay for not having to glue/frost the walls together! This was really Josh's first year of house decorating. I think he may have eaten more than he decorated, but he got the idea.

Not too shabby! The little balls were Josh's favorite. He kept throwing them on the floor to watch them roll!

The annual Gingerbread house making day.....

click here for 2010.

click here for 2009.

click here for 2008.

RCA Christmas program

2012-01-30T21:14:00.001-06:00

The annual Rossville Christian Academy Christmas Program.
I was able to hire a babysitter for Josh so I could actually watch the program. Always so nice when I get out alone!

The kids did a great job! Jacob is in the second row with a red sweater with gray horizontal stripes. Below are the 2 videos of them performing their songs.

Click here for his kindergarten Christmas program.
Click here for his PreK Christmas program.

Josh is sick...

2012-01-28T16:14:00.000-06:00

Josh was sick before Christmas. He was so cute the way he said, "I sick". So here it is!

(Yes, I had a cold too, I know I sound just wonderful {insert sarcasm here})

Choo Choo

2012-01-28T10:20:00.002-06:00

Josh has become fascinated with trains. How do boys know to like boy things? Anyway...everyday on our drive home from Jacob's school we pass a caboose and engine. It's there for the kids to climb on and see. So, we stopped on a nicer day to check it out. Josh LOVED it!

What boy wouldn't love to climb all over something!

Snowman Soup

2012-01-28T08:41:00.000-06:00

Several years ago, a fellow Mops member gave these out. I thought they were so cute, I knew I wanted to do them! All you need is a sled ornament, a package of hot chocolate, 3 marshamallows (in a bag to look like a snowman), a candy cane and the snowman poem.

Snowman Soup

Was told you’ve been good this year,

Always glad to hear it!

With freezing weather drawing near,

You’ll need to warm the spirit.

So here’s a little Snowman Soup

Complete with stirring stick,

Add hot water; sip it slow.

It’s sure to do the trick!

Of course, after the fact, I found this great printable card. Just click here.

I just added all the pieces to a cute Christmasy cellophane bag. Voila!

My little Bobcat

2012-01-28T07:40:00.000-06:00

Cub scouts had a ceremony at one of their meetings for the kids who were becoming Bobcats. The moms were invited and asked to stand with their new Bobcats. They went down the line and painted the kids faces to induct them into their new position in the Cub Scout world. As they handed them their new patch and a pin. They told the kids that they were to do a random good deed and after they did, they could give their mom the pin. (This was the beginning of December) So I recently asked Jacob if he had done his good deed yet. His reply, "No, I can't find any." Oh dear!

At this same meeting they were sliming the den leaders. The top popcorn seller in each den got to slime their leader. My friend Amy is a den leader. She came totally prepared; sweatsuit, rain slicker, rain boots, and umbrella. As she sat down, she said, "A good scout is always prepared."

Shopper Josh

2012-01-17T15:46:00.000-06:00

No wonder Josh likes to shop! He gets to play with cool toys. He loves Cookie, (above). He always wants to pet her!

His favorite stores are those with train tables too!

Josh practicing his skating skills

2012-01-17T12:56:00.000-06:00

It was a beautiful day in December and Jacob and his friend Jaden were skating at the neighbors house. Josh just had to join in. You know, he is one of the big kids! The neighbors, Sam and Barbara got a walker out of the garage for the kids to hold onto while they were getting their skating legs. It worked great!

Gotta love Walmart!

2012-01-17T01:54:00.002-06:00

So, lets start with the fact that one day a Walmart employee was kind enough to give Josh a cookie from the bakery. Josh has not forgotten this kindness and continues to chant "cookie" through the whole store! (see his adorable pronunciation of Cookie in the video below!) They now have this bus at the entrance/exit of the store. I now get to here him ask for the bus too! ugh, thanks walmart!

Snow much fun!

2012-01-17T01:51:00.000-06:00

Jacob's teacher asked for help with her door. I had this great idea come to me to have the kids make snowman using a waffle for a stamp. So I came in and helped her cover her door and help the kids make the snowmen. The kids thought it was hilarious to do the snowmen with a waffle. I had so much fun being creative, especially since Josh was having fun at home with his favorite babysitter, Josey!

1st grade is snow much fun!

The Memphis Experience

2012-01-17T01:47:00.000-06:00

Oh how Jacob and I have missed the Memphis Experience! Except it was quite different this year! Above is Josh brushing a sheep.

Josh was fascinated by the sheep. Before and After we saw the living nativity story, we visited "Bethleham". They had a mock city and the kids made candles, popped popcorn over a fire,ect.

Jacob in front of the camel after the living nativity story

Part of the living nativity story

The angels dancing at the birth of Christ in the story

Our crew that night!

Oh dear!

2012-01-16T22:21:00.000-06:00

Yes, I worked hard baking bread one morning. As I was working hard on the computer (not updating my blog). I kept thinking, this is great, Josh is busy playing and I am getting so much done. Lo and behold, the site I saw when I walked in the kitchen. My poor bread! He was proudly saying, "num num num".

Tools used in the bread massacre: fork, steak knife briefly (and have been moved for safe keeping) and a chopstick.

December snow in Memphis

2012-01-16T22:17:00.000-06:00

I went to bed thinking it's cold. I woke up to Eric already up...which is quite unusual. He usually needs some prodding to get out of bed. When asked what's up, he simply opened the curtains and this winter wonderland was there. It was beautiful, and still snowing. Now, in the past, Memphis closes schools at the forecast of snow. But for some odd reason, when it is actually snowing, they still have school. So poor Jacob had to go to school and didn't get to play in the snow that day. It was melted by the time he got home. :(

But Josh on the other hand, LOVED it! I pulled him around the yard on the sled. I let him slide down the neighbors very mini hill. Which he DID NOT like! I introduced him to snowballs, which he LOVED!

Yep, I think it's time...

2012-01-16T22:10:00.000-06:00

...to move the candy dish!

The rollerskating party

2012-01-16T22:08:00.001-06:00

Jacob went to his friend, Nathaniel's birthday party at the skating rink. He LOVED skating. He was falling alot at first and I didn't think this 2 hours was going to go well. But he picked it up fast and did GREAT!

A little blurry, but in motion! (and on his feet!)

About an hour later, Josh was a bit restless. Actually, he kept stealing the round paddle at the air hockey table so noone could play it. So out of desperation, I asked him if he wanted to rollerskate. He said he did and the rink had trainer skates. So, my not even 2 year old (22 months to be exact) donned roller skates and off he went!

What a big boy!

Multi talented!! =D

They also had a large playground that he LOVED to play in.

Breakfast with Santa...and Mr. Bob, Uh Oh!

2012-01-16T21:47:00.000-06:00

Mommy and Josh

We love going to our church's breakfast with Santa. This year Buddy came along with the boys and I for pancakes and some Santa magic.

The pictures of Josh and I were taken by the grinch. He was so enthralled with the grinch. He sat in the chair and waved at the grinch the whole time. Then when the grinch came to our table, he'd jump in my lamp and act all shy. Silly boy!

A self portrait of the grinch and Jacob!

Once again, the grinch took our picture. It kinda took my camera hostage and just started snapping pictures!!

Love the pic of Josh and little santa. He just walked over to it and smiled. Perfect snapshot. (Just need to pull that shirt down!)

The Kavickys while we were waiting for our pancakes!

Love our little bunch!

He's just not to sure what to think of that grinch!

cheese! Josh was not turning his back on that thing to smile at the camera!

Gotta love the seriousness on Josh's face! Now, Santa, AKA Bob Konsowitz, who is a dear family friend didn't speak much to us. But as I waited for our picture to develop, I sent Jacob and Buddy out in the hall to wait. Jacob told Buddy he thinks he knows who Santa is and named Bob. Uh OH!! So we had a little conversation that Santa cannot be everywhere for all the children to meet so he has Santa's helpers. Bob must have a special job working for Santa! How lucky is Bob!! He totally bought it....or at least, never let on otherwise! And that's why I always take him to the other santa on these days. Who happened not to be dressed because he ate breakfast at our table! Oh well.....guess it's about time he figures it all out!

Brothers! Love the ear hold to get his brother to look at the camera!

Still got those ears!

Click here for 2010 pics.
Click here for 2009 pics.
Click here for 2008 pics.

orders and sleeping

2012-01-16T14:57:00.000-06:00

Josh barking out his orders. Blanket, here! Choo choo (as pointing to the TV). Quite the little character!

Josh sleeping in the chair. He was a bit congested, so I was trying to help him sleep sitting up....My goodness, don't think my back bends that way!

St Jude Family Fun Run

2012-01-16T14:51:00.000-06:00

Jacob and I decided to do the St Jude family fun run together this year. The difference, is that I wasn't needing to walk during the mile! I pushed him and we finished it in 8:36!! Above is the starting line for the race.

Jacob and I ready to run!

We had our picture taken with the Riverkings Hockey mascot.
Click here to see their article with our picture for the event.
Click here to see our race last year.

The Collierville Christmas Parade

2012-01-16T14:42:00.000-06:00

This was our first year going to the Christmas parade here in Collierville. It's always so cold, sitting outside for a parade is the LAST thing I want to do in January. But, since Jacob was in a float for Cub scouts, we were there. Not that you can see him that well, but Jacob is towards the middle left with his santa hat and red sweatshirt on.

Josh wasn't too sure what to think about all this excitement!

But Joshy sure enjoyed it, especially when he figured out they throw candy!

Daddy and Josh

We had quite the hold up with the parade. A kid fell off his float and the float ran over his leg. So, Jacob had time to ride the parade route and walk back to where we watched the parade and enjoy the end of it.

The long drive home

2012-01-12T20:58:00.000-06:00

My kids are old pros at long car rides. The boys and I do it so much together, that we have it down pat! I love that the van has the built in carseat for Josh. It has to help his bum. Daddy got him all cozy and laid back in his seat. He is definitely traveling like a stylin 21 month old here!

Thank goodness for the McDonalds app! I was able to find the nearest McDonalds with a playland. Josh needed to run! Forget eating, he can do that in the car.

Culver Cove Resort

2012-01-11T13:11:00.000-06:00

Before we headed back to Memphis, my sister and her family and us headed to Culver Cove for the night. This is where Eric and I had our wedding reception. We hadn't been back since then. So 11 years later we bring our kids to hang out with their cousins and swim a little! It was a great night! I started the night out with a sunset run along the lake. It was AWESOME!!

Above: Josh steeling a ride on the luggage card to the room.

No, I don't know the people in the picture....but they wouldn't move. I just loved the view of the lake from inside. Love this lake and ALL the memories it brings with it!

The Three stooges, I mean, the 3 cousins! Don't they just LOOK ornery?!

Much better of our sweet little angels....

Love this pic of the boys "relaxing" on the couch. We told them they could watch a movie and just hang out together. Moments later there were no covers on the pull out couch and it was mass chaos on the room! haha!! But boy, did they have fun!

I might add, that the girls won the Battle of the sexes! Or at least we should've.... sure wish we lived closer and we could all do this more often!

The Stockman grandkids

2012-01-06T12:35:00.000-06:00

This was the last picture of the day. As Josh decided it was a mosh pit and started body surfing. I mean the boy, just threw himself down the stairs. And we were done! hahaha!

These are the boys shirts that I made. So stinkin cute if you ask me! But I am a bit biased!

I made Bella some matching pants too!

Love this picture! Except Caden decided to look up! =D

Probably the best picture of them all. Even with Kael saluting me now! It really was hilarious getting this pics!

Hey Josh, over here!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2012-01-06T08:36:00.000-06:00

Well, I guess it has been awhile since I posted. My pics posted in backwards order from what I wanted them to! Oh well....hang with me!

With my Grandpa Stockman not doing so well. He had told me good bye in October when I visited. I was not ready for that to be the end. So, Eric said we could go back for Thanksgiving. My first holiday with my family since I moved to Tennessee! It was fun to share it with Eric. He doesn't get alot of time off from work, so he doesn't go with us to Plymouth much. So glad to share more of the town I grew up in with him!

(Above) I do photo calendar every year for my Grandmas and Mom. I'm able to post a picture of each person in the square for their birthday. Steve WOULD NOT let me take his picture. So here is the best shot I got of him while standing on the arm of my Grandma's couch!

Tyler, my 11 year old nephew. He's smart as a whip and LOVES any kind of video game. I think he's pretty good at them too. But then again, I'm comparing him to myself and I have zilch talent in that area!

The kids all playing and having fun together

Josh is a quick little booger! So many pictures that I see and want to capture. But by the time I have the camera out, he's outta there! Loved how he went to Grandpa Dick and sat on his lap. Sorry I didn't catch it though!

We celebrated Tyler's birthday too. It was on Monday that week!

It took some work, but we were able to get Grandma and Grandpa Stockman to Thanksgiving dinner to celebrate with us. So good to have them there!

Katie, Steve, Eric, my mom, and grandma stockman (well just her head)

Grandma Stockman,
she sure did love the pecan pie!

Grandpa enjoying a big plate of tasty food!

Kael is a cuddler. He is in several pictures loving on Grandpa Vic

My dad used his van to bring Grandpa Vic to dinner. It worked just fine. He has a winch set up in it for hauling his cranes in and out of the van. It did a fine job hauling Grandpa's wheel chair in and out.

At one point we couldn't find the kids. They were all in my Grandma's closet playing! They were having a blast! Doesn't the mess show it!!

So glad that my family was able to sacrifice the time and expenses to make the trip to Inidana for Thanksgiving. It made it a special holiday for me at least!

Thanksgiving party at Rossville

2012-01-01T10:43:00.000-06:00

I made these yummy Indian tent cupcakes to take to Jacob's Thanksgiving Feast at his school. (thanks pinterest for the ideas!)

The kids also decorated their Indian vests to wear to their feast. Thank goodness no one thought to ask where the pilgrim costumes were.....they just aren't as much fun! So they were ALL Indians!

The 1st grade Indians

We made Ms. Jill get in on a picture with the class. She was complete with her Indian feathers!!

The feast was yummy! Some one's awesome mom brought this cornucopia made of bread. I really wanted to tear the bread and eat it. But I behaved!!

We finished the day with a little pin the hat on the turkey.

Fun times in 1st grade!!

Cub scouts cake decorating

2012-01-01T09:28:00.000-06:00

For cub scouts, Jacob had to bake a cake and decorate it. Then they all brought their cakes in to auction off and raise money for the pack. Jacob did a good job baking and mixing and stuff.

A little mixer action...

Then it was frosting time. I really didn't help him that much with this project. It was completely his own.

The finished project!!

They could pre-buy their cake for $10 if they wanted to keep their own work of art. But since we were leaving town the next day, we chose to sell his. It brought in $36!! Holy Moly!!

Little big boy is growing up!

2012-01-01T09:09:00.000-06:00

Yes, it was officially time to move this little big boy out of his crib. sniff sniff. But he was crawling out, so I tried one of those bed rails and he just got stuck between the mattress and the rail. Not good! So, we decided to get him his own special bed. I also was secretly hoping this would solve the night time wakings! I had been searching for one for about a week, when we stopped at Toys R Us. They had this old style Cars bed on clearance. So for the low price of $40 Josh was the owner of his own bed. Oh wait, we still had to assemble this thing! But no fear, daddy the mechanic is here!

He may not be sleeping through the night. It wasn't a miracle bed. But hey, he likes it! He feels so big sleeping in a bed just like his big brother! Sleep tight Joshy!

The unsung hero in the family!

2012-01-01T08:52:00.000-06:00

Buddy (better known to the rest of the world by John =D) received an award from our church's district. It was a complete surprise to him. He was coerced into attending this service at a sister church, Germantown Methodist. Then, as they were calling out the award, he was to say the least shocked. Eric, Jacob, Josh, and I were hiding in the back of the service. So we were able to be there for his special afternoon. Above: Melanie (Senior Adult Minstery Leader), Josh, Jacob, John, and Angela (Associate Minister)

Buddy, Josh, Jacob, and Barbara

Josh, John, Jacob, Eric, and Kristi

John receiving his award during the service.

Click here to read about it in our church's newletter, The Interpretor. Scroll about half way down to get to this article.

OOOPS!!

2012-01-01T08:09:00.001-06:00

OH MY! I didn't post at ALL in December. I'm about 6 weeks behind now!!!! I guess we were just having way too much fun these past few weeks! Well, hold on. I'm hoping to get a bunch of blogging done in the next week or so. We'll see! =D

Chuckie Cheese

2011-11-21T15:39:00.000-06:00

We went to a birthday party at Chuckie Cheese's. I couldn't keep up with both Jacob and Josh. So thank goodness Jacob is old enough to go and play by himself. But Josh cracked me up. This time he wanted to ride all the rides. I'm not sure what he was doing to Barney here.....letting him eat his hand? The kid cracks me up!

Halloween night

2011-11-21T15:32:00.000-06:00

We always start out halloween night in our neighborhood. But since it's country and not very many kids. There's only a handful of houses we visit. Then we head into Collierville to hit a busy neighborhood.

Trick or treat!

Josh was bored riding in the wagon. So he was pulling his load.

Click here for last years halloween night pics.
Click here for the year before.
Click here for the year before that one.

The carving of the pumpkins

2011-11-21T08:59:00.000-06:00

We almost forgot to carve our pumpkins this year!! Yikes!! But, as soon as we got home from school, we carved our pumpkins. Then it was time to trick or treat.

This was the first year that Jacob carved his pumpkin all on his own! He did a great job too!

Josh tried to do his....thank goodness for those safety knives they have for carving pumpkins these days!!

Click here for 2010 carving post.

Click here for 2009 post.

Finally click here for 2008 post.

Trick treat

2011-11-21T08:41:00.000-06:00

Josh was enjoying the load he brought in from trick or treating. Sad for mommy, no kit kats in this stash. We still have halloween night!

double fisting the suckers

Jacob and I were trying to get Josh to say his "trick treat" that he says for halloween.

Josh's first trick or treating on the square

2011-11-21T07:24:00.001-06:00

Josh's first real trick or treating experience, since he was in the stroller last year, was at the square. They did trick or treating Friday afternoon instead of on Halloween on Monday.

I think this is so cute! This is actually at the end of his trick or treating. I guess his little legs needed a rest.

The happy little trick or treater! (I love how blogger has no pattern lately for loading pictures. These are in reverse order!)

Stopping for a rest on the sidewalk step.....don't worry, it didn't last long!

Hey Josh! Look at me! Oh well....

Jacob at least poses and looks at the camera! Look out for that scary pumpkin head monster behind you Jacob!

Why hello there Mr. Skeleton!

stopping to check out his goods and maybe sample a piece

Trick or treat! It didn't take him long to figure out that these nice people on the sidewalk would give him candy if he stopped in front of them. He even stopped for people sitting on the bench for a rest!

Click here for last year's square trick or treating, and here for 2008.

Jacob's 1st grade fall festival

2011-11-20T16:48:00.000-06:00

Yes, I'm the room mom. But this year I'm a co-room mom. I love it!! Love the extra help, ideas, and someone to bounce ideas off of! She asked me if I would bring the fruit. My first thought was, how boring. So, I hopped on the internet and found a great idea! I love my pumpkin head of fruit kebobs! Thank you to the land of google for the inspiration!

Josh came with me to the party. He was very intrigued because Brody, who is his buddy from the zoo, was sleeping in the corner. He kept telling me night night and pointing at him. Then he'd go over and stare. That's Candace, Brody's mom with Josh looking at Brody sleeping.

Josh made himself right at home with the kids. They all loved him too. The kids were playing heads up 7-up. That's why Jacob has his hand raised in the picture above. Jacob had fun eating, playing games and just hanging out with his classmates.

Mish mash of outdoor play

2011-11-20T12:19:00.000-06:00

Some sweet friends of ours gave us their old Jeep for Joshy. We finally got the right batteries for it and Josh is loving it! So glad that Jacob can still get in and ride with him. He needs a little help with his driving. My poor van WILL survive this Jeep! =D

Josh playing on the roller racer

Jacob has been saying things to Josh for him to repeat when we're in the car. Above is him roaring like a dinosaur....not sure if they roar or not. I love when Jacob is having Josh repeat everyone's name. When he gets to me, Jacob says, "say Kristi". Josh says, "mama". He will not call me Kristi. It's really cute!

Cub scout halloween

2011-11-20T09:34:00.000-06:00

I love how easy going Jacob is....we were talking about what the boys would be for halloween a few weeks before. Jacob says, "l'll just be a ninja again this year. I already have the costume." I was like, cool. That sounds good. Then we pulled our halloween box out of the attic and I found this skeleton costume we picked up last year on clearance. I showed it to Jacob. He says, "Cool, guess I'll be a skeleton." Love this kid!

Picking out pumpkins

2011-11-20T08:53:00.000-06:00

Our church youth has a pumpkin patch each year to help raise their funds for mission trips, ect. We made our annual trip to the patch to pick out our pumpkins. It was quite hilarious, as this was Josh's first year that he was mobile. He thought the pumpkins were balls. He would try to throw them and kick them.

Josh had a blast running around everywhere!

Jacob wanted the perfect pumpkin for his carving this year. So he looked at them all very carefully.

This boy better be a quarterback or pitcher, he sure has an arm on him!

I love this picture because it shows what a good big brother Jacob is. He watches out for Josh and helps keep up with Josh's sippy cup!

Josh wanted no part of sitting still for pictures. There were too many balls to kick and throw.

Again, reaching for his "ball"!

Fed Ex 5K

2011-11-19T22:46:00.000-06:00

Before the race. I ran the 5K and Jacob ran the 1 mile fun run. It was a cold day. But what a fun family event.

Josh had fun playing before the race began.

The starting line for my race. Jacob's race was in a different location and I didn't get to watch him. :( He raced very well. His time was 10:10. I had my best race yet. I beat my personal goal of doing a 5K faster than 30 minutes. I ran it in 29:40! Woo hoo! Now for a new personal goal. Hmmmmm.....

This and that

2011-11-19T21:15:00.000-06:00

Josh loves playing at his train table. Just the right height! He's been playing with his cars and ramps. Lots of fun to run ALL of his cars down the ramps to a big pile up!

This picture cracks me up. Not sure why I really took it. But Jacob and our neighbor Bekah talking at a hot dog roast/hayride at her house. It reminds me of 2 teenagers talking...

The picture above and below are in opposite order. Josh enjoyed some chocolate and was a MESS! Below is before the bath, above is the bath boy getting cleaned.

Jacob made himself some glasses with his carpentar kit. Haha! Love that kid!

Josh's first field trip

2011-11-19T20:49:00.000-06:00

My Mops group had an outing for the kids at a local petting farm. I love this little farm and took Jacob there each year. Josh LOVED his day out with mom. He loved riding the horse. He tried to go back for a second turn, but they were only giving them 1 ride.

He liked feeding the ponies carrots. The ponies were just his size!

He also got to pet the rabbits. He didn't want to sit and hold one. But then again, the boy just doesn't sit much.

He didn't like the bounce house so much....he liked running around in the room it was in better. He really liked opening the bathroom door so everyone there could see his Mom with her pants down. *sigh*

Our last stop was a wagon ride. We rode with Alan (in the red hoodie jacket). Not sure why they didn't let all the mommies ride, but Alan had fun and was very well behaved. So was Josh!

The farm was only about 5 miles away, so we rode our new bike there. The day wore Josh out. I kept feeling him hit his head on my back and wasn't sure what game he was playing. Til I realized he was sleeping. Bless his little heart. What a fun day!

Happy, happy birthday Eric!

2011-11-19T17:23:00.000-06:00

So, apparently I don't listen closely enough. When I asked Eric what kind of cake he wanted for his birthday, he said I just want ice cream. So I made an apple crisp and bought ice cream to make it a'la mode. But that wasn't what he really wanted.....Bad wife! But we celebrated his day anyway!

Daddy had lots of help blowing out his candles. I think he did have a good night. It was a soccer night, so both boys were with me so he could have a peaceful night at home. (or maybe that's just my wish! =D)

Josh loved the ice cream!

We are all so thankful for Eric and all the hard work he does for our family. We love getting a day to celebrate him! Yay Eric!!

click here for last years birthday.
Click here for the year before that.
And click here for the year before that one....

Home at last....

2011-11-19T14:55:00.000-06:00

I always end up coming home with way more than I took with me to Indiana. This trip we scored with this awesome bike from my brother. It's been great to add to my current running. Josh loves riding along too. Our first day out we went 10 miles. Great day. Great ride.

I remember riding this little scoot at my Grandma and Grandpa Stockman's house. I LOVED it. So, I brought it home for the time for my kids to enjoy.

Josh was just glad to get home to his dogs. You know, something he can boss around, and well, Daisy doesn't mind since he feeds her!

Dinosaur World revisited

2011-11-19T09:43:00.000-06:00

Grrr! blogspot once again, put the pictures in random order. They are so hard to maneuver around on the blog post....so bear with me! Jacob has been asking to stop at Dinosaur World again for over a year and it just hadn't worked out. Finally on the way home from our Indiana visit, we were able to work it out! It's a fun place for kids. Especially after being in the car so much. There's lots to climb on, places to run, and dirt to dig in. A boys dream!

We dug for fossils. Can you believe it? We found some! haha!

Climbing on a dinsoaur. Now, I should've paid more attention and been able to name them all. But no, I just walked around in a daze thinking of our 6 hour drive ahead of us!

This is what the boys see from the road that entices them. A GIANT dinosaur!!

The boys had fun climbing all over the giant T-rex!

There's a path through the woods with dinosaurs hiding in the trees.

Looks like Jacob is running from the dinosaur! haha!

More fossil digging

Of course Josh loved the digging for fossils. It was playing in sand!

The dinosaur ate Jacob and Josh! Ahhhh!

Roooooaaaaaarrrrrr!!!!!

There's also an area that you can find dinosaur bones.

Click here to go back to the first time we visited Dinosaur World with my neice Becca. Jacob has grown so much!!

Yes....the mish mash of pics. Jacob digging for dinosaur bones!

Our stop in Greenwood

2011-11-19T07:10:00.000-06:00

The boys and I had fun hanging out with my brother, Alan for a few hours. He took us to the mall to see his wife, Eutemia. When he went one way for some Starbucks, I stopped the other to check on some school pants for Jacob. The boys wanted to go with him. When I found them again, Josh was riding this super big dog/motorcycle thingy. He LOVED it! Of course, Uncle Alan is fun!

We went back to their house once the kids were out of school and Jacob had so much fun playing with Kael and Kaleb. They played basketball in the rain for awhile...

Josh saw Andre eating and decided he wanted to get in Andre's high chair and eat too. So he had a little snack.

Bella, Andre (on top), Jacob, Josh (below), Kaleb, and Kael
That's most of the crew!

Speaking of tired and sleeping....

2011-11-18T19:00:00.002-06:00

The boys crashed after we left Plymouth and headed to Greenwood to visit Alan and all the kids!

My new pillow

2011-11-18T18:58:00.002-06:00

There was a little accident involving Josh and my pillow. So, while we were so close to a Katie-mart or as most people know it, a Kmart. I went to see if they still carried my favorite brand. Josh was so cute as I was looking around. He laid on it and kept telling me night night. It was past his bedtime and this kid knows when he's tired!

The 4 stooges

2011-11-18T18:55:00.000-06:00

Once again, trying to get a picture of 4 boys is about impossible. This one isn't too bad....but wait til you see the rest!

Josh and Grandma Stockman

2011-11-18T14:56:00.000-06:00

Josh sat still enough for a picture with Grandma. She was so happy to see us. Even with all the chaos we bring!

Skater Jake

2011-11-18T13:12:00.000-06:00

Plymouth has a skatepark and Jacob had gotten a new skateboard for his birthday. So, since the Plymouth kids were in school, we had the whole skatepark to ourselves. He had so much fun trying the half pipe and all the other stunts.

Josh had fun running around and climbing too!

3rd annual apple picking

2011-11-17T09:18:00.000-06:00

Our 3rd year to go apple picking with Grandma Marilyn and cousin(s). We we went to "Old man Eberly's" as Grandma refers to him, to pick again this year. It was a nice drive there through Tyner and Grandma was able to point out places she lived and went as a child. We all liked hearing about it.

This was Tyler's first year to make it on the apple picking outing.

Josh loved running all over taking bites of apples. We just had to watch that he wasn't eating rotten ones or throwing his 1 bite apples in the bag.

The apple picking crew. Caden had a hard time having his brother there this year....but he once he got his own bag he was picking happily.

Grandma then took us all to a Chinese buffet for dinner. Jacob's 1st plate was most interesting. Shrimp, crawdads, mussels, and Pepperoni pizza! Always the adventurous eater!

Click here for the 2nd annual apple picking.

Click here for our 1st apple picking.

Horseback riding badge

2011-11-17T07:51:00.000-06:00

My friend Jennifer, helped Jacob earn his horseback riding badge. He groomed the horse and learned safety rules. He can identify different parts of the horse now too.

Josh even wanted to groom the horse.

Joshy trying out the safety helmet.

Jacob leading his horse to the arena to ride.

He did great riding. He was able to steer and make the horse trot. I even got on behind him and helped him canter. He LOVED that! My little speed demon. =D

Josh had a blast at Jennifer's house too. He rode 4 wheelers and ran around like CrAzY!

Thanks Jennifer for always showing my boys a great time! Thanks for being such a sweet friend too!

Another adventure at Thistleberry Farms

2011-11-16T20:38:00.000-06:00

My best pull back pic of Josh and I on the hayride. He was intently watching the cornfield I believe..

Try getting 4 boys to all look at the camera and smile at the same time! Haha! Poor Josh looks like he's being strangled. Jacob said he was hugging him. He's not crying, so all is good!

Josh even got in on all the action. He loved the bicycle go carts!

He was trying to pump his water and make his rubber ducky swim.

Another year of fun at the farm. Click here for last years post.

Messy boy!

2011-11-16T19:53:00.000-06:00

Mmmmm, looks like those oreos were yummy!

Josh's introduction to the ice cream sandwich....another messy, yet yummy treat! (So much better when it's not my kitchen! =D)

After the ice cream sandwich

Fall in the north

2011-11-16T19:44:00.000-06:00

It was a beautiful drive north this time of year. Considering it was pretty much green in Tennessee, the bright vibrant colors on the trees made the drive so worth it!

I took the kids to Centennial Park for one of my morning runs. The trees and the covered bridge...gorgeous! This is home!

On our run that morning. I took the boys to the old well. Grandpa Vic used to go and clean the well frequently. He loved to bottle the water and take it home to drink. Now, it doesn't taste anything like fresh spring water that you buy in stores these days. This is true iron-y (of that's a word) water from Indiana. It's a one of a kind taste. Josh tried it. But Jacob couldn't get past the mold growing on it. Oh well.....maybe I need to clean it in Grandpa's honor since he can't get down there to do it!

A stop in Carmel

2011-11-16T16:57:00.000-06:00

My drive to Indy the day before left me a bit tired. So we scrapped the idea of going to Connor's Prairie and just hung out at Aunt Drea and Uncle Jeff's house. Above: all 3 boys (Jacob, Josh, and Connor) playing the piano together.

I took a nap and Drea took all the kids to the park. They, in true boy fashion, wanted to head over to the creek and play. Josh loved it and was wet from head to toe. Jacob and Connor had a blast just throwing rocks in and exploring. I felt much better when I caught up with them.

Connor pushing Josh up the big hill. What a fun day!

Fall Break trip to Indiana....the way there

2011-11-16T14:58:00.000-06:00

Well, these pics just posted in any order they wanted to! So....here's my ADD commentary to go with them! Jacob had a half day of school on Friday, so I let him miss it and we started on our trip that morning. That way we could stop for lunch at Lamberts Cafe. Home of the throwed rolls! That's always on his must stop list. Unfortunately, it's on everyone elses list too and theres sometimes a LONG wait. We were able to get right in this time. But by the time we were leaving, there was already a wait list. Whew! Got that stop in! Above: I love going through IL so we can see the BIG CROSS in Effingham. I mean, how could you miss that thing!

I brought some window markers that both boys had fun drawing with. Jacob practiced his phonics and drew pics on the window. Josh, well, we were just glad when he drew on the window and not himself!

My attempt at a pic of the Lamberts boy throwing rolls. You know, that's what Jacob wants to do when he grows up. Work here and be the one that throws rolls! Josh was enthralled with the process. He studied the boys throwing the rolls very intently. By the end of dinner, he was trying to throw his shrimp to the people at the table next to us. Maybe taking him here when we are trying to teach him NOT to throw was a mistake....oh well.

Jacob was the only one to catch a roll at our table. I missed every single one!

We took a few minutes to stretch our legs outside Lamberts before getting back in the car.

Back in 2001 or 2002 Steve and Katie met Eric and I at Rend lake for a weekend of camping. I remember it being SUPER hot! But it was at the perfect spot to stop and stretch our legs again. This leg of the road was super LONG! Never again will I try to get all the way to Indy by myself with the boys. But we made it! We had fun running around the park here and getting ready for the rest of the ride there.

Happy 29th birthday Kristi.....again!!

2011-11-15T19:17:00.000-06:00

Yep, I celebrated 29 years...again this year! We won't tell how many years I've done that! =D I am proud to say that I did meet my goal and ran my 1st 5K. I've had a wonderful year this past year. I am now physically fit, 40 pounds lighter (yes, I lost just over a Josh off my frame!) and I feel so good! The best since I was so sick when I was pregnant with Josh. But that little guy is SO WORTH all of it!! 2 boys at home keep me REALLY busy. But Josh LOVES the outdoors and he LOVES to go for runs. So, it makes my new passion of running so much easier.

With all that said, the last year God has also been pruning me. Working on forgiveness. I've done alot of reading and research on forgiveness. (and time on my knees!) My heart really wants to forgive, but my head tells me that I'm setting myself up to be hurt again. So a back and forth between head and heart battle. I can't say that I've completely mastered this. But, God has given me some baby steps to take and I'm trying my best to lean on Him. I wanted to share this verse. I feel like it's the scripture that fits this past year or two of my life. ( I just love how God shows you the scripture that you need at just the right time! Yay God!!)

I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardner. He cuts off every branch that doesn't produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. You have already been pruned for greater fruitfulness by the message I have given you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful apart from me.

Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. Anyone who parts from me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned. But if you stay joined to me and my words remain in you, you may ask any request you like, and it will be granted! My true disciples produce much fruit. This brings great glory to my Father.
John 15:1-8

My prayer for this next year of my life is that I continue to follow God's direction in my life. I have a few opportunities that I have been praying about. We will see how God answers these!

Also, considering running a half marathon in April. The Nashville rock n roll half marathon. There's a band every mile. I think making it to the next band would be so WORTH it!

Click here for last years post. Maybe by next birthday I'll be caught up on my posts too!!

Granparents day at RCA

2011-10-27T08:02:00.000-05:00

Buddy was able to make it to enjoy grandparents day at Jacob's school this year. Jacob loves to get his notes and surprises from his grandparents on this day. It's the one day that he notices that most of the kids have their grandparents close by and his are far away. A special thanks to Grandma Becky & Grandpa Wayne and Grandma Marilyn & Grandpa Dick for their notes of encouragments and treats they sent!

The kids get a star for each book they take a test on and pass. Jacob has the 2nd longest star trail! Rebekah is leading the class!

Buddy and Jacob working on their grandparents project. A beaded keychain.

Cheese!

I think he's bored....

Jacob's class did a Memphis blues song about Grandparents. It was so cute. Check out the video below!

Our own Memphis Jake singing the blues! =D

Click here for kindergarten and 4k and 4K practice grandparents days.

Brothers at play

2011-10-25T22:44:00.000-05:00

Jacob got a skateboarding game for the wii. Turns out, Josh is pretty darn good at it! He kept the high score the first week. It's way too funny to watch him skateboarding away! (Below)

The boys had fun playing beyblade together too!

Below: I caught them on video beyblading. Love seeing the brotherly love...

Josh-isms

2011-10-23T19:44:00.000-05:00

Josh has some of the cutest ways to ask for things. I love how he asks for reddi wip by noise.

I love the way Josh says Baby. So cute in the video above.

2 days at the zoo with friends

2011-10-23T16:53:00.000-05:00

Josh and I went to the zoo with our friend Candace and her son Brody who is close to Josh's age. The boys had so much fun. We wore them out! We stopped for lunch at the cat house which is right next to one of the monkey's areas. The monkey was so friendly, he hung out with us while we ate lunch. It was so cute!

The ape taking a nap. This guy kinda creeps me out when he stares you down.

Josh had a cool souvenier cup from lunch. Guess he thought the monkeys would enjoy it!

Josh chillin out at the zoo

I of course, had to show that I could swing up on the cow without a problem. Just like the old days with my horse. The cow is a bit more slippery.

Josh and Brody checking out the tigers

Josh's legs needed a little rest....yes , I made him walk the zoo this time.

Josh and Brody hugging.

Trip 2 Candace brought her 2 older boys with us and Jacob came also. Jacob loves to feed the birds.

We stopped at the fountain on the way out. Josh was crawling all over the ledge. My little water boy was very intrigued with the water and the coins that people had thrown in.

Big brother protecting little brother....right before little brother fell in.... Thank goodness for spare clothes and towels in the car. I've learned to pack for boys and their messes.

Brody enjoying the water.

Great time at the zoo with great friends!

Celebrating at home

2011-10-23T12:19:00.001-05:00

These are the cupcakes that Jacob took to school to celebrate his birthday. I love these cupcakes in ice cream cones!

He's so excited for his birthday presents! Especially new DS games!

Jacob even got to order his breakfast. Josh liked his pick of doughnuts that morning!

Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday dear Jacob
Happy birthday to you

Wishing on his candle

Messy boy enjoying his brothers birthday cupcakes

click here for 2010 and 2009 celebrations.