Welcome

deleting the blog

2009-03-08T23:21:00.002-05:00

I went to delete the blog tonight because I just don't have time to keep up with it. I mean really-I stress myself out over not posting pictures on a blog. It's ridiculous. So, I was going through it saving the stuff on when Allie was first born because I don't want to forget it. I'm going to try to get it printed in a book and then delete it. So thanks for checking in on us. If you would like to keep up with us join Facebook-I update that all the time.

Boys will be boys

2009-01-29T21:33:00.004-06:00

What do I mean by that? Well, I've had this beautiful little boy and I decided I would raise him with manners and sensitivity, and for the most part I've succeeded. But I've learned that men are born. This little guy has come up with some pretty funny stuff lately and I thought I would share it with you.

* Before Christmas I wanted to go look at Christmas lights (evidently I'm the only one in my family who enjoys this, so next year I will do it by myself with a huge Starbucks). I told Peyton what we were going to do and here is his response:
"why don't you just go outside and look at our house-it has lights on it?"

* He thinks a cemetery is called a dying field.

* My best friend and her husband were here a few weeks ago and we were playing a card game and Peyton came through the kitchen and asked:
"when are you going to stop playing and make some food?"

* He recently argued with me passionately that PE does not teach you how to play sports.

* Evidently I sound like the dog on Barnyard when I get frustrated.

* He told the furniture guy the other day that we wouldn't have anymore babies because Daddy had a surgery to fix that.

* He asked Emmy if she was born in a warehouse in stupidville.

Peyton's Christmas Party

2009-01-29T21:24:00.002-06:00

Can you tell we ration his donut consumption? Yes, there are 4 donuts on his plate. Luckily he only ate 1 1/2. I don't know what it is, but donuts make him go crazy about 5 hours after he eats them. But I let him load up since it was a party.
He had a great time, it was a little crazy with eating, reading a story, doing a book exchange, passing out gifts, and a craft. But we got it all done in 1 hour. There were some exhausted mommy's that day.

Polar Express

2009-01-29T21:19:00.004-06:00

We took the kids to the Polar Express in December and they had a blast. I think they were most excited about the hot chocolate. I could have saved myself $80 bucks and made hot chocolate home.

It was a lot of fun. It was the hottest train I have ever been on in my life. So much I almost freaked out, Matthew had to open a window to get some air on the thing.

Top secret photoshoot at Texas Stadium

2009-01-13T00:12:00.001-06:00

I finally posted my top secret photoshoot at Texas Stadium on my photography blog. Go check it out.

park

2009-01-10T14:02:00.003-06:00

I took advantage of the gorgeous weather yesterday and took the kids to the park.
Allie was cracking up laughing in the swing-she loved it.

One of our babysitters met us at the park to give the kids McD's gift cards for Christmas.

Christmas card 2008

2009-01-10T13:58:00.003-06:00

We took these after riding the Polar Express. The kids had a blast! Matthew asked where I wanted to do their pictures and I pointed to a fenced mill and the ugly back of a feed store-he was a little skeptical. I love the urban look with different textures.

Sorry I've neglected the blog

2008-12-26T00:00:00.008-06:00

Kade and Aunt Chelle at Thanksgiving.Aunt Chelle-isn't she beautiful? I love her red hair.
The whole gang. It's actually smaller than usual but a couple of families didn't come this year.

Emmy playing it up for the camera. I love the shots of her looking away.
My girls-we had gone on a walk because Mommy thought she was over the stomach flu. Little did I know I had 5 more days to go. Yup 7 days of Montezuma's revenge.
Matthew frying turkeys. I wonder if he ever thought he would be "that" guy who fries turkeys in the driveway?
My baby with her index finger in her mouth, aka the normal pose.

I'm sorry I have neglected the family blog. I had a HUGE holiday season rush with my photography business, I was doing good to keep my kids fed.

If you want to date one of my daughters

2008-12-11T23:02:00.002-06:00

I copied this from my friend Leah's blog, and thought it was so funny I had to post it here. Obviously my girls aren't old enough to date yet, but they will be one day and anyone who knows Matthew knows how bad it will be for those poor boys who attempt to date them.

Rule One:
If you pull into my driveway and honk you’d better be delivering a package, because you’re sure not picking anything up.

Rule Two:
You do not touch my daughter in front of me. You may glance at her, so long as you do not peer at anything below her neck. If you cannot keep your eyes or hands off of my daughter’s body, I will remove them.

Rule Three:
I am aware that it is considered fashionable for boys of your age to wear their trousers so loosely that they appear to be falling off their hips. Please don’t take this as an insult, but you and all of your friends are complete idiots. Still, I want to be fair and open minded about this issue, so I propose this compromise: You may come to the door with your underwear showing and your pants ten sizes to big, and I will not object. However, in order to ensure that your clothes do not, in fact come off during the course of you date with my daughter, I will take my electric nail gun and fasten your trousers securely in place to your waist.

Rule Four:
I’m sure you’ve been told that in today’s world, sex without utilizing a “Barrier method” of some kind can kill you. Let me elaborate, when it comes to sex, I am the barrier, and I will kill you.

Rule Five:
It is usually understood that in order for us to get to know each other, we should talk about sports, politics, and other issues of the day. Please do not do this. The only information I require from you is an indication of when you expect to have my daughter safely back at my house, and the only word I need from you on this subject is: “early.”

Rule Six:
I have no doubt you are a popular fellow, with many opportunities to date other girls. This is fine with me as long as it is okay with my daughter. Otherwise, once you have gone out with my little girl, you will continue to date no one but her until she is finished with you. If you make her cry, I will make you cry.

Rule Seven:
As you stand in my front hallway, waiting for my daughter to appear, and more than an hour goes by, do not sigh and fidget. If you want to be on time for the movie, you should not be dating. My daughter is putting on her makeup, a process than can take longer than painting the Golden Gate Bridge. Instead of just standing there, why don’t you do something useful, like changing the oil in my car?

Rule Eight:
The following places are not appropriate for a date with my daughter: Places where there are beds, sofas, or anything softer than a wooden stool. Places where there is darkness. Places where there is dancing,holding hands, or happiness. Places where the ambient temperature is warm enough to introduce my daughter to wear shorts, tank tops, midriff T-shirts, or anything other than overalls, a sweater, and a goose down parka - zipped up to her throat. Movies with a strong romantic or sexual theme are to be avoided; movies which features chain saws are okay. Hockey games are okay. Old folks homes are better.

Rule Nine:
Do not lie to me. I may appear to be a potbellied, balding, middle-aged, dimwitted has-been. But on issues relating to my daughter, I am the all-knowing, merciless god of your universe. If I ask you where you are going and with whom, you have one chance to tell me the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. I have a shotgun, a shovel, and five acres behind the house. Do not trifle with me.

Rule Ten:
Be afraid. Be very afraid. It takes very little for me to mistake the sound of your car in the driveway for a chopper coming in over a rice paddy near Hanoi. When my Agent Orange starts acting up, the voices in my head frequently tell me to clean the guns as I wait for you to bring my daughter home. As soon as you pull into the driveways you should exit the car with both hands in plain sight. Speak the perimeter password, announce in a clear voice that you have brought my daughter home safely and early, then return to your car - there is no need for you to come inside. The camoflauged face at the window is mine.

Playing outside

2008-11-15T21:09:00.003-06:00

Isn't this the greatest? She is laughing at Peyton launching his rocket.
My sweet baby boy!
My sweet baby girl.

I'm obsessed with their kissing pictures.
I love this look.

Allie asleep under the coffee table

2008-11-15T21:04:00.001-06:00

When Allie gets tired in the afternoon she will find a random spot to take a cat nap. Isn't it adorable?

Book Character Pumpkin

2008-11-15T20:57:00.001-06:00

Can you guess which book character this is? Yup, it's Franklin. My son came up with the idea for his head, I was so proud.

Allie

2008-11-15T20:54:00.003-06:00

Christie

2008-11-15T20:23:00.006-06:00

My best friend in the entire world came into town last week with her two boys. We had a blast, and we got to snap a few pics in the drive way for their Christmas card.

Here is Christie reading. We both started the Twilight series on Thursday and we will both be done tomorrow with book number 4 (that's 2300 pages of pure innocent entertainment).

This is so true

2008-11-15T20:23:00.001-06:00

NINE WORDS WOMEN USE

(1) Fine : This is the word women use to end an argument when they are right and you need to shut up.

(2) Five Minutes : If she is getting dressed, this means a half an hour. Five minutes is only five minutes if you have just been given five more minutes to watch the game before helping around the house.

(3) Nothing : This is the calm before the storm. This means something, and you should be on your toes. Arguments that begin with nothing usually end in fine.

(4) Go Ahead : This is a dare, not permission. Don't Do It!

(5) Loud Sigh : This is actually a word, but is a non-verbal statement often misunderstood by men. A loud sigh means she thinks you are an idiot and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here and arguing with you about nothing. (Refer back to # 3 for the meaning of nothing.)

(6) That's Okay : This is one of the most dangerous statements a women can make to a man. That's okay means she wants to think long and hard before deciding how and when you will pay for your mistake.

(7) Thanks : A woman is thanking you, do not question, or faint. Just say you're welcome. (I want to add in a clause here - This is true, unless she says 'Thanks a lot' - that is PURE sarcasm and she is not thanking you at all. DO NOT say 'you're welcome' . That will bring on a 'whatever').

(8) Whatever : Is a woman's way of saying kiss off or worse!

(9) Don't worry about it, I got it : Another dangerous statement, meaning this is something that a woman has told a man to do several times, but is now doing it herself. This will later result in a man asking 'What's wrong?' For the woman's response refer to # 3.

* Send this to the men you know, to warn them about arguments they can avoid if they remember the terminology.
* Send this to all the women you know to give them a good laugh, cause they know it's true!!!

Post Election

2008-11-05T13:01:00.002-06:00

I'm going to admit I'm mourning, I have a heavy heart, but I am faithful in God's plan.

Romans 13:1-7
1Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. 4For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. 6This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. 7Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.

35 odd things about me

2008-11-03T18:52:00.010-06:00

I copied this little quiz from Leah's blog

35 Odd Things About Me

1. Do you like blue cheese salad dressing? HATE it
2. Do you own a gun? I don't personally, but my husband has several.
3. What's your favorite drink at Starbucks? Venti, half caff, skinny vanilla latte (it's $4.17) can you tell I get it often?
4. What do you prefer to drink in the morning? water
5. Do you do pushups? Like 6 years ago, but I have officially started back at the gym.
6. What's your favorite piece of jewelry? My wedding ring
7. Favorite hobby? scrapbooking
8. Do you have A.D.D? No
9. What's one trait that you hate about yourself? overly anxious
10. Name 3 thoughts at this exact moment: I hope McCain wins, I have a lot of photos to edit, I need to start working on my Bible study.
11. Name 4 drinks you regularly drink. Diet Coke, water, tea, venti half caff skinny vanilla latte
12. Current worry right now? keeping the motivation to get back in shape
13. Current hate right now? The election
14. Favorite place to be? Home
15. Do you like to travel? Yes, but not internationally
16. What color shirt are you wearing? navy blue
17. Do you like sleeping on satin sheets? Absolutely NOT, I only like white cotton with a thread count of at least 800
18. Can you whistle? Yes.
19. Favorite color? orange
20. If you could, would you be a pirate? No, puking my guts out constantly doesn't seem fun.
21. What song do you sing in the shower? Normally I'm yelling at my kids to close the door.
22. Favorite girl's name? Gentry (notice neither of my girls are named that huh?) Thanks Mattie
23. Favorite boy's name? Peyton
24. What's in your pocket right now? Nothing
25. Favorite bedsheets as a child? I can't remember
26. Worst injury? Concussion and HUGE gash on my face
27. Do you love where you live? No.
28. How many TVs do you have in your house? 3
29. Who is your loudest friend? April, but she's not loud, just talkative
30. How many pets do you have? None, Sampson died in April after having him for 10 years
31. Does someone have a crush on you? Huh? NO!
32. What is your Favorite Book? Currently? 1000 splendid suns
33. What's your favorite candy? Whatchamacallit
34. Favorite Sports Team? Dallas Cowboys, Houston Astros ( I worked for them for 5 years), TCU football team
35. What was the first thing you thought of when you woke up? Do I have to take a shower? The answer was no, because I took one last night and I was headed to the gym.

A new perspective on the election

2008-10-22T22:02:00.007-05:00

This is the best thing I've read in years. It eloquently explains how our voting MUST be based on our christian beliefs. We are commanded to follow God's Word, therefore, our vote MUST not contradict His Word or commands.

Please take time to read this. Then click on the snopes website below to read Mr. Brown’s response to this private email being spread all over the internet when they contacted him for authentication.

Why I (A Black Man) Can't Vote For Obama
By Huntley Brown

Dear Friends,
A few months ago I was asked for my perspective on Obama, I sent out an email with a few points. With the election just around the corner I decided to complete my perspective. Those of you on my e-list have seen some of this before but it's worth repeating...

First I must say whoever wins the election will have my prayer support. Obama needs to be commended for his accomplishments but I need to explain why I will not be voting for him.

Many of my friends process their identity through their blackness. I process my identity through Christ. Being a Christian (a Christ follower) means He leads I follow. I can't dictate the terms He does because He is the leader.

I can't vote black because I am black; I have to vote Christian because that's who I am. Christian first, black second. Neither should anyone from the other ethnic groups vote because of ethnicity. 200 years from now I won't be asked if I was black or white. I will be asked if I knew Jesus and accepted Him as Lord and Savior.

In an election there are many issues to consider but when a society gets abortion, same-sex marriage, embryonic stem-cell research, human cloning to name a few, wrong economic concerns will soon not matter.

We need to follow Martin Luther King's words, don't judge someone by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. I don't know Obama so all I can go off is his voting record. His voting record earned him the title of the most liberal senator in the US Senate in 2007.

NATIONAL JOURNAL: Obama: Most Liberal Senator in 2007 (01/31/2008)

To beat Ted Kennedy and Hilary Clinton as the most liberal senator, takes some doing. Obama accomplished this feat in 2 short years. I wonder what would happen to America if he had four years to work with.

There is a reason Planned Parenthood gives him a 100 % rating.
There is a reason the homosexual community supports him.
There is a reason Ahmadinejad, Chavez, Castro, Hamas etc. love him.
There is a reason he said he would nominate liberal judges to the Supreme Court. There is a reason he voted against the infanticide bill.
There is a reason he voted No on the constitutional ban of same-sex marriage.
There is a reason he voted No on banning partial birth abortion. There is a reason he voted No on confirming Justices Roberts and Alito. These two judges are conservatives and they have since overturned partial birth abortion. The same practice Obama wanted to continue.

Let's take a look at the practice he wanted to continue

The 5 Step Partial Birth Abortion procedures:
A. Guided by ultrasound, the abortionist grabs the baby's leg with forceps. (Remember this is a live baby)
B. The baby's leg is pulled out into the birth canal.
C. The abortionist delivers the baby's entire body, except for the head.
D. The abortionist jams scissors into the baby's skull. The scissors are then opened to enlarge the hole.
E. The scissors are removed and a suction catheter is inserted. The child's brains are sucked out, causing the skull to collapse. The dead baby is then removed.

God help him.
There is a reason Obama opposed the parental notification law.

Think about this: You can't give a kid an aspirin without parental notification but that same kid can have an abortion without parental notification. This is insane.

There is a reason he went to Jeremiah Wright's church for 20 years.

Obama tells us he has good judgment but he sat under Jeremiah Wright teaching for 20 years. Now he is condemning Wright's sermons. I wonder why now?

Obama said Jeremiah Wright led him to the Lord and discipled him. A disciple is one in training. Jesus told us in Matthew 28:19 - 20 'Go and make disciples of all nations.' This means reproduce yourself. Teach people to think like you, walk like you; talk like you believe what you believe etc. The question I have is what did Jeremiah Wright teach him?

Would you support a White President who went to a church which has tenets that said they have a

1. Commitment to the White Community
2. Commitment to the White Family
3. Adherence to the White Work Ethic
4. Pledge to make the fruits of all developing and acquired skills available to the White Community.
5. Pledge to Allocate Regularly, a Portion of Personal Resources for Strengthening and Supporting White Institutions
6. Pledge allegiance to all White leadership who espouse and embrace the White Value System
7. Personal commitment to embracement of the White Value System.

Would you support a President who went to a church like that?

Just change the word from white to black and you have the tenets of Obama's former church. If President Bush was a member of a church like this, he would be called a racist. Jessie Jackson and Al Sharpton would have been marching outside.

This kind of church is a racist church. Obama did not wake up after 20 years and just discovered he went to a racist church. The church can't be about race. Jesus did not come for any particular race. He came for the whole world.

A church can't have a value system based on race. The churches value system has to be based on biblical mandate. It does not matter if it¢s a white church or a black church it's still wrong. Anyone from either race that attends a church like this would never get my vote.

Obama's former Pastor Jeremiah Wright is a disciple of liberal theologian James Cone, author of the 1970 book A Black Theology of Liberation. Cone once wrote: 'Black theology refuses to accept a God who is not identified totally with the goals of the black community. If God is not for us and against white people, then he is a murderer, and we had better kill him.

Cone is the man Obama's mentor looks up to. Does Obama believe this?

So what does all this mean for the nation?

In the past when the Lord brought someone with the beliefs of Obama to lead a nation it meant one thing - judgment.

Read 1 Samuel 8 when Israel asked for a king. First God says in 1 Samuel 1:9 'Now listen to them; but warn them solemnly and let them know what the king who will reign over them will do.'

Then God says

1 Samuel 1:18 ' When that day comes, you will cry out for relief from the king you have chosen, and the LORDwill not answer you in that day.' 19 But the people refused to listen to Samuel. 'No!' they said. 'We want a king over us. 20 Then we will be like all the other nations, with a king to lead us and to go out before us and fight our battles.' 21 When Samuel heard all that the people said, he repeated it before the LORD. 22 The LORD answered, 'Listen to them and give them a king.'

Here is what we know for sure.

God is not schizophrenic

He would not tell one person to vote for Obama and one to vote for McCain. As the scripture says, a city divided against itself cannot stand, so obviously many people are not hearing from God.

Maybe I am the one not hearing but I know God does not change and Obama contradicts many things I read in scripture so I doubt it.

For all my friends who are voting for Obama can you really look God in the face and say; Father based on your word, I am voting for Obama even though I know he will continue the genocidal practice of partial birth abortion. He might have to nominate three or four Supreme Court justices, and I am sure he will be nominating liberal judges who will be making laws that are against you. I also know he will continue to push for homosexual rights, even though you destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah for this. I know I can look the other way because of the economy.

I could not see Jesus agreeing with many of Obama's positions. Finally I have two questions for all my liberal friends.

Since we know someone's value system has to be placed on the nation,

1. Whose value system should be placed on the nation.

2. Who should determine that this is the right value system for the nation?

Blessings,
Huntley Brown

(Mr. Brown's response to this letter being sent out on the internet.)
http://www.snopes.com/politics/soapbox/huntleybrown.asp

My kids in Downtown Dallas

2008-10-19T23:49:00.007-05:00

We took the kids to downtown to capture some special moments. Allie, was not happy during this photo shoot. But I got some great shots of Peyton and Emmy.

Emmy feeding Allie

2008-10-19T23:46:00.003-05:00

It's sad, but sometimes I need Emmy to feed Allie in the morning. Matthew was out of town for 3 weeks straight, and I was struggling getting everything done before 7:30 a.m., so I enlisted Emmy's help.

Bath time

2008-10-19T23:43:00.004-05:00

This is how bath time goes down in our house-all 3 in one tub. I know my time is limited, but the kids love it and it makes my life easier.

Christmas mini sessions

2008-10-11T16:25:00.004-05:00

It is that time of year, Christmas is quickly approaching and it's time to start thinking about Christmas cards and Christmas gifts. Why not give the gift of photos this Christmas?

I know a few of you are waiting for this! Perfect for those who do not need a full session and want to get the perfect Christmas cards! All cards are custom and press printed-thick glossy cards professionally printed.

I'm offering one day of mini sessions, on October 25th, in downtown Rockwall. It has everything to offer, brick walls, trees, iron benches, and old town charm. These spots are first come, first serve. To reserve a spot you can either email me or call me, pick an available time slot, and reserve it with credit card. Believe it or not, 1/4 of the spots are already taken.

Here is the scoop:
- When: October 25th (rain day is Nov 8th)
- Where: Downtown Rockwall
- Each session is 30 minutes long.
- Cost is $15o
- You get 25 custom 5x7 flat cards with envelopes
- You get one 8x10
- All payments are due upon booking and are non-refundable upon cancellation.
- Please arrive 10 minutes before your alloted time.
- I recommend bringing treats and snacks for younger children.

If you would like to book a full session, I have about 3 days left in November. Full sessions allow for breaks, clothing changes, as well as location changes.

All past customers are welcome to use an image from past sessions for your Christmas cards. Please let me know if you are interested.

Holiday card correction

2008-10-08T22:31:00.005-05:00

Sorry my last pdf wasn't working. Check out my new here www.kimnielsenphotography.com/holidaycards2008.pdf

Christmas Cards

2008-10-04T22:50:00.002-05:00

I have released my 2008 Christmas cards. I'm really excited about these. I have some traditional red and green, some modern blues and browns, and some whimsical pink. Check them out at www.kimnielsenphotography.com/christmascards2008.pdf

Tina Turner

2008-10-01T23:16:00.002-05:00

Have I mentioned how sweet my husband is? I know, just go to the next blog right? I promise this won't be sugary sweet. I LOVE Tina Turner. When we first started dating, I listened to that cd constantly. Well, Tina is back on tour and my husband got tickets for me. I can't wait. Now I just have to find a sitter on a Sunday night. Ugh.

Chicago trip

2008-09-29T17:12:00.003-05:00

Here are some pics from my workshop I went to in Chicago last week. I learned so much, and I had a blast photographing these great kids.

MIA

2008-09-24T10:37:00.002-05:00

Sorry I've been MIA. I've had a lot going on here at home kid wise and business wise. I went to Chicago this past weekend-the first time I've flown without my kids. Trying to get all of my Christmas stuff ready for clients, and school activities are in full swing. Now both of my girls are sick-RSV I think.

Allie's first birthday party

2008-09-08T16:47:00.007-05:00

I can't believe my sweet baby girl is 1 year old. Matthew and I decided to do our first family only party, and I have to say it was a blast and so enjoyable.

Here is her smash cake-made by Angie with Babycakes.
Here was her strawberry cake with strawberry cream cheese icing. It was so moist and delicious.
Look at Colton-showing off his eyebrows.
Here is the birthday girl.

This is my favorite. She scrunches up her nose and exhales furiously. It's hysterical.

My baby boy-who isn't a baby anymore.

I love this. Don't tell him his hat was pink with princess written on it.
Allie playing with Poppa.
Here is Mia, enjoying some time with Allie.
Here is Deb, or Duckie as my kids call her.
Peyton running a pass back.
Deb's "healthy" tortilla chips. Notice "flax seed and sesame seeds"
My famous guacamole.
A beer bloody mary. It sounds gross, but it's so refreshing.
Emmy playing catch with Weston.
Weston being "crazy"
My sweet girl laughing at Weston.
Peyton caught Colton.
My blue eyed girl.
Daddy's yummy burgers.
Yummy cake. She was so polite eating her cake. She worked on that one little hole the entire time.

I think she enjoyed the fire.
The only evidence I was at the party. It's kind of like the cobblers kids with no shoes. I don't have pictures of myself.
My precious boy and his big brown eyes.

Me and Emmy

2008-09-01T10:54:00.002-05:00

I've posted so much about Peyton, I had to post a few pics of Emmy. Here we are, I'm tickling her and she is acting annoyed.

Can you see her saying "stop"? Emmy or as we now call her Mimmy loves to act annoyed and grumpy. She really isn't that grumpy, but she sure likes to put on.
We've hit the phase of the fake smile that actually looks like she is in pain.

First Day of School

2008-09-01T10:46:00.002-05:00

This has become a tradition: Peyton eating oatmeal on the first day of school. Hope he doesn't want pancakes for breakfast.

Here he is with his teacher. She is FABULOUS!!!! And most importantly he loves her and wants to please her.

Crab date

2008-08-27T16:23:00.006-05:00

Peyton and I started a new tradition this year- to go on a date before school starts. Peyton is a HUGE Deadliest Catch fan -the TLC show, and he decided he wanted to go eat some crab. So we went to Joe's Crab Shack and he had a blast.

He really gets into coloring, and he always insists on bringing the menu home. Is it bad I throw them away while he is sleeping?

Look at him digging for some meat.

He was determined to at least try to crack the legs-I ended up helping him, but I just love his determination.
We needed a little dessert to complete the meal-yummy!

The reason Matthew and I fight 99% of the time

2008-08-27T16:21:00.002-05:00

I saw this on a table and I just had to photograph it. Enough said.

My new photography blog

2008-08-18T17:21:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to share that I am finally finished with my new photography blog for my business. A new personal one will follow as well-I'll keep you posted. I've been working on this off and on since May, so as you can imagine I'm relieved I finished programming it. I hope you check it out. Check back soon, I'm going to have my first contest on it.

The Great Wolf Lodge

2008-08-12T16:12:00.002-05:00

We went to The Great Wolf Lodge 2 weeks ago with my cousin Deb and her 2 boys. It was a blast, I think we're going to make it a yearly tradition .

Here is Allie, chilled out in her stroller. This is Colton. Doesn't he have the most amazing eyebrows? Colton how do you keep your eyebrows looking so great? Ha Ha Ha.
This is Weston. He has awesome hair!
Here is Mimmy (She refers to herself as Mimmy). We had dried off changed our clothes and we were heading out to dinner, but she just couldn't tear herself away from the window. Down below is the indoor water park and she missed it terribly. She is such a little fish.
Here is the crew-tired, water logged, and hungry.

My little boy is growing up...and I'm sad

2008-08-12T15:47:00.004-05:00

My little boy is starting kindergarten tomorrow, and I'm sad. I have loved having him home everyday this summer, and I just don't want to give that up. I know he's ready to go back to school and he needs it, but I don't need it.

We went to parent orientation last night, and I LOVE his teacher. All of the kindergarten teachers are great, but I think he got the perfect one for him.

He got a real Charger football jersey from football camp this year. It touches the ground, it's so long. I had to take some pictures in it, because he is soooo in love with it.

More of Allie

2008-08-12T15:42:00.003-05:00

These were done a couple of weeks ago. Can you believe she is almost 1? I can't. Believe it or not, I've did another session with her last week. I'll post those later. Look at her cute little tooshie.
This is her expression the minute she wakes up and 99% of the day. I promise she is the most happy baby The Lord ever created.

Do you love the 2 teeth peeking through on the bottom? After this shot she fell backwards and hit her head. Yes, I felt awful. It happened when Emmy was talking to me upstairs and I looked up to see her and BAM! her head smacked on the floor.

Where is my imagination body part?

2008-08-01T11:34:00.004-05:00

We were in the truck driving to the grocery store and this was the conversation:

Peyton: Where is my imagination body part?

Mommy: It's in your brain

P: It's in your brain? How is it in your brain?

M: That's where God put it.

P: Why do we have ears?

M: To hear.

P: Why do we have eyes?

M: To see.

P: Why do we have a nose?

M: To smell. Why do we have a heart?

P: So Jesus can live in it.

I make a lot of mistakes as a Mom, but I've obviously done something right. You can imagine my delight when he said this. It didn't come up during prayer time or driving to church. This is something he believes and knows to be true, and he thinks about it even while driving to the grocery store.

Pictures of Allie

2008-07-24T15:57:00.004-05:00

I'm getting a gallery ready for Cathy, so I'm finally getting around to editing my own kids pictures. Here are some of Allie from a couple of months ago.

Why an orange bow? Because it's my favorite color.
I just threw this on in.
We were playing in the yard when I took this one. Believe it or not, I did not retouch her eyes, those are all her.

Better at blogging

2008-07-23T16:02:00.002-05:00

I just looked back at my first posts when Allie was born and I was so much better about blogging back then. So I'm committing to blog more. I love that I can look back through the posts and I can have them turned into a book.

I know I'm way over the top with memory preservation. I take tons of pictures (you're shocked huh?) I scrapbook, I keep journals for each kid where I write all the funny things they say and do, and my thoughts, and I blog. I think I'm so obsessed with it because I lost my mom early and I don't have any memories left. I have a few pictures, but no stories to go with them. So I'm determined my kids will have something to look back on. Can you imagine what it will be like "here are your 20 scrapbooks, journals, and boxes of all the cute artwork you did."

I'm not a pack rat at all, actually I give too much stuff away (don't tell Matthew I said that) but I treasure all of the personal sentimental things.

So heres to blogging more...check back tomorrow.

It's been quiet

2008-07-22T16:33:00.003-05:00

I'm sorry, I haven't been posting much. Peyton did football camp last week at his school and he had a blast. I will post pictures soon I promise. Each boy got a trophy and a real jersey worn by one of the highschoolers-he thought that was so cool.

I should title this post winds of change, because I can feel things changing in our house. Peyton is going into kindergarten, the girls will be in mothers day out (I'm feeling a little guilty-so don't say anything), and Peyton started playing flag football in a competitive league. I can't believe I signed my kid up for a sport that practices 3 times a week...ugh! Luckily when school starts they will on practice 2 times a week. He loves it, but mommy doesn't love the time commitment. I'm real funny when it comes to family time-I like for us all to be home in the evening. I don't mind running ragged all day, but at night I want to be home. I can now see how that changes when you have school aged children. For those moms out there that read this blog and have little ones at home, enjoy it while it lasts.

Fun at the spray park

2008-07-12T15:30:00.002-05:00

I took the kids to the spray park this week in celebration of getting Emmy's cast off. Can you see her tan line from it? I'm so happy that thing is gone.

My happy boy running through the water.

This is an example of my children indulging me.
I LOVE Allie's squinty faces.
Look at how skinny Peyton is getting. His rolls are gone, he has ab muscles now, and the cutest little booty I've ever seen.

Sunflower Festival

2008-07-01T23:20:00.004-05:00

We went to Shreveport this weekend and attended a sunflower festival just north of the city. It was a lot of fun. Peyton and I rode in a big RV with his cousins Jan, Julie, Jim, Jeanine, and Jan's neighbors. I loved hanging out with our family, but it was HOT.

I loved this quilt hanging in a door way. Believe it or not I do quilt. I haven't worked on my blanket in a long time, but it's in my closet just waiting.

Here is Jan. She is hysterical. She wasn't so keen on her picture being taken, but I got it anyways. Love you Jan!
Here is Beverly holding Allie at lunch. She was so tired and found a comfy place in Beverly's arms. She is like an aunt to my children.

Look at this big old dog. Her name is Mandy and my kids took to her quickly. It's funny because Peyton and Emily are both afraid of little dogs, but not big dogs.

Julie has a huge garden and brought some veggies for her mom Jan. I just love all the colorful veggies piled up in this bucket.
Here is Peyton holding a squealing piglet. He ended up dropping the piglet (which was not hurt). Matthew and I kind of got onto him for it and upset him. Once we were walking around his eyes filled up with tears and said "can I go apologize to the pig?" I felt awful for saying anything to him. I have to learn that I don't have to address every little issue. Matthew ended up paying $2.00 to take him back in the petting zoo, where Peyton "built" a better bed for the piglet with hay. I have to remember that Peyton is very perceptive and very sensitive.
This was my favorite picture all day. I think I'm going to blow this one up for my house.

Mia and Poppa

2008-06-30T13:14:00.003-05:00

This is rare folks- These two don't like taking pictures and they darn sure don't like sharing them. But I got approval to share their pictures. We took these in the beginning of April.

Pictures with Allie

2008-06-23T17:06:00.001-05:00

Matthew and I took pictures with Allie Sunday morning.

I love this picture of Allie and her Daddy. Don't they look alike?

Saturday Night at Saltgrass

2008-06-23T16:58:00.002-05:00

I know you're asking yourself "why did she post this picture?" Well, it's because my son has become obsessed with his nails and germs on his hands. Peyton used to bite his nails. It's wasn't just a nibble here and there, he would bite them below the quick. So I might have scared him when I told him about how he could get an infection from biting his nails. He has completely quit biting his nails and now asks me at least 5 or 6 times a day if his nails are okay. Mental note: don't overdo it on the scare tactics.
Here is Miss Emmy all dressed up for dinner. This was her creation 2 minutes before we left for dinner. I had to let her wear it, doesn't she look so cute? Of course I had to grab my camera to document the cuteness.

I think having a big brother with a HUGE imagination and an affinity for dressing up has rubbed off on her.
This is a rare picture with Peyton and his REAL smile. I could drown in those big brown eyes.

Allie Update: she is now sitting in high chairs at restaurants and she feeds herself cheerios.

The Green Cast

2008-06-23T16:54:00.001-05:00

Here is Emmy playing dress up with her new green cast.

My Peyton

2008-06-16T15:30:00.004-05:00

My Peyton is a question asker, he asks questions all day long. He gets it from me, I'm very inquisitive (and if my mother were alive, I would apologize to her for all of the questions I asked growing up). Back to my little interrogator, after church while we were in the car driving to Chiloso to eat lunch he starts talking/asking about grass snakes. Where grass snakes live, what they like, what color they are and then he asks "what do grass snakes eat?" Now, that's a great question because neither myself nor my encyclopedia for a husband knew the answer. So Peyton replies, "we can just look on www.grasssnakes.com." Really at 5 years old he knows about the internet???

You know in my day you had either a library card that granted you access to the card catalog or an outdated set of encyclopedias your parents bought from a door to door sales man. Not now, everything can be researched by typing in www.blahblahblah.com

I do have to brag on my little boy. The past 2 Sunday's I've picked Peyton up from Sunday School his teacher has gone on and on about how well behaved he is and well mannered he is. That just warms my heart and makes me so proud. I probably shouldn't tell her that he pitched a fit yesterday for 1 1/2 hours. Yes, really 1 1/2 hours. He is one of those kids who can not handle being tired, he will spin out of control if he does not get enough rest. We also have figured out that those fits happen on days where he eats donuts for breakfast. To say the least he will never eat a donut again.

Broken Arm

2008-06-09T23:50:00.003-05:00

We have finally entered the broken bone club. Emily broke her arm on Sunday after church. She and Peyton were playing on a stool when Matthew told Peyton to get down and Emmy went flying along with the stool.

I have to say she is such a trooper. She has done really well with the whole thing. I took her to the ER on Sunday and I really thought they would tell me everything was fine, because she was using her arm, putting pressure on it and there was no swelling. However, the doctor came in kind of stunned because he thought the same thing. So, I'm taking her to the orthopedic in the morning and hopefully she will get a cute pink cast. I will post pics tomorrow.

Afternoon fun

2008-06-03T15:33:00.003-05:00

Last Tuesday when it was storming and raining my kids were inside having some fun.
Peyton was creating all sorts of things with his Legos. Instead of giving you the bird, he's giving you the horse.

Allie, playing on the floor. I swear she can sit up, but she falls over very quickly and I gave my boppy seat away so she lays around a lot.
The kids got these binoculars in a birthday party favor and Emmy is obsessed. This is what I hear all day "wook mama, wook mama, wooooooook MAMA!!!!" By the third time she is worn out with me and screaming.

Princess and The Knight

2008-06-02T21:42:00.002-05:00

Peyton and Emily were upstairs playing dress up together. Nothing unusually for Peyton but until recently Emmy refused to put on dress up clothes. But Peyton pulled out her fairy outfit and asked if she wanted to wear it and of course the answer was yes. In her eyes Peyton walks on water and she does pretty much everything he asks her to do.

Peyton is allergy FREE

2008-05-29T21:00:00.002-05:00

I am so happy to report that Peyton is allergy free. He did such a great job today at the doctors office; he ate all the nuts without complaining. He didn't care for the peanuts so much but he kept saying "I have to eat them today for the test."

There is so much freedom in knowing he does not have anymore nut allergies. The first thing I said to him was you don't have to eat at a separate table during lunch anymore at school. I'm so excited he can participate in everything at school with any second thoughts. PRAISE THE LORD!!! This truly is a miracle because only 15% of children outgrow nut alleries.

We left the doctors office with strict instructions to go get some Reese's peanut butter cups, so he could share them with Daddy.

2008-05-25T00:24:00.000-05:00

Nut Challenge

2008-05-22T16:13:00.002-05:00

No it's not a game, Peyton is having a nut challenge a week from today (next Thursday). I'm bringing in every kind of nut and we are going to let him eat them and see if he has a reaction. I am EXTREMELY nervous about this. They schedule the appointments so other patients aren't there "just in case" something goes wrong. What could go wrong? He could swell up and stop breathing. I'm going to be faithful that won't happen but I will be a HUGE ball of nerves that day. Please say a prayer that he is not allergic to any nuts. I'll update Thursday night to let you know the results.

School is over

2008-05-22T16:10:00.003-05:00

Oh my goodness, I can't believe school is over for this year. Yesterday was the official last day, but today the whole K4 grade went to a local park and played for a couple of hours. The kids had a blast! Of course it took Emmy a good 20 minutes to get acclimated, but that's her. Afterwards several moms went to Joe's Crab Shack and asked me to join them. It was great, I didn't meet many parents this year because I wasn't up at school much. It was so nice to sit and talk to some fellow moms.

I've really spent the last few years volunteering at church and my MOPS group but I think I need to focus my efforts at school. I'm a firm believer you have to contribute to any group and I'm ready to contribute to DC.

Alli is sitting up

2008-05-14T16:39:00.002-05:00

Look who is sitting up? Finally! She is 8 months old, and I was starting to get worried. It's a whole new world now baby.

This is how I see my baby almost 95% of the time. Index finger in her mouth-so cute!

Here she is being playful. Who needs toys when you have feet?
Look at that angel face, she has the biggest baby blue eyes.

Hanging out in the dining room

2008-05-13T15:00:00.003-05:00

We were playing in the dining room the other day and I decided to whip out my camera to see what my two monkeys could come up with and this is what I got.

A strong Power Ranger

Do you ever wonder why I don't have as many pictures of Peyton as I do of Emily? Well it's because my son doesn't like to take his picture and he runs away from me.

Emmy was going wild because I let her climb on the table all for the sake of a picture.

"Do you want a KIA?"

2008-05-13T14:53:00.002-05:00

Yup, that was the question my son proposed to me as I came out of the bathroom. He went on to explain that KIA was a type of car and I could buy it. Now let me tell you that my son is an advertisers dream. If they put it in a commercial he believes it. Literally every week I hear how I need to buy some green bags to keep my produce fresh. Really? My 5 year old is telling me how to preserve my produce? All of you with kids right now that watch Nick are thinking I know exactly which commercial you are talking about.

Back to the story- so I explain to Peyton that I don't need a new car, my expedition is great and I love it (even though it takes $1000 to fill the dern thing up). The he goes "if you get a job you can get a KIA." You know you've heard that on their commercials. I cracked up when he said that. I knew I had to blog this one.

Mother's Day

2008-05-13T14:47:00.002-05:00

We went to Houston this past weekend to see Matthew's side of his family. Ironic huh? We go to Houston to see my husbands family when I'm the one from Houston. We had fun and on the way out of town I planned to meet my best friend Christie and her family for a few minutes in the Woodlands at a McDonalds. However, as we were driving to the McD's off of 242 and I 45 we passed by Lupe Tortillas. Let me tell if you ever get the chance to go to a Lupe's in Houston jump on it; it is my all time favorite Houston restaurant. So Matthew looks over at me and goes "you think they would rather go there?" Of course a Corona was calling Jeff's name so we high tailed back down I 45 and proceeded to have a very relaxing Mother's Day lunch. We sat outside on the patio and the weather was GORGEOUS!!!! It was a nice ending to a good weekend. I'm loving the fact I can see Christie more than just 1 or 2 times a year. I warned her once they move in to a bigger house this summer, my kids and I will be down there all the time.

catching up

2008-05-13T14:38:00.004-05:00

I must apologize to all my blog stalkers-I have neglected our family blog and I am so sorry. I have been swamped with photography work (Praise for that), not to mention husband, house, and three kids there just isn't enough time in the day. I'm starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel; Peyton gets out of school next week and my photography jobs are more spread out (not like this week with 5).

Did I mention Peyton gets out of school? I am SOOO EXCITED. I'm ready to have all my babies at home and gain control over my daily schedule. We don't have any big plans this summer except swimming, art camp for Peyton (God has blessed him with a true artistic gift and I want to grow that in him), perfecting Peyton's handwriting (I know its a stretch considering how awful Matthew's is), swimming, covering our driveway in sidewalk chalk art, blowing millions of bubbles, going to the park at 7:00 in the morning to avoid exploding in the heat, more swimming, frequenting the local Chick Fil A (again to avoid exploding), story time at the library, and more swimming.

Sweet Baby Girl

2008-05-02T23:33:00.001-05:00

I couldn't resist sharing this picture. Alli has had a big week. She is getting her first tooth and she said "da da."

Sampson

2008-04-27T23:24:00.004-05:00

June 1997-April 26, 2008

We had to put Sam down on Saturday. We knew this day was coming because he was diagnosed with lymphoma earlier this month. Due to his age (he was 11 years old) we decided not to do aggressive treatments. We had elected to treat him with steroids to buy some more time with him.

"We" got Sampson right before we graduated from college. We had gone to Petsmart where they were adopting dogs. We both agreed we wanted a large dog. I remember when we got Sam out of the cage to walk around the store he would just lay on his side, because he was terrified. We found out he had been severely abused before adoption and it took years to see the effects of that wear off. Sam lived with me and roommates the first year Matthew was in law school. That first year we found out Sam liked to ingest huge portions of fabric, note I didn't say chew up-I mean injest. He battled heart worms and many, many trips to Waco.

Once we were in Waco he was our saving grace-lets just say we didn't live in the best neighborhood. Sam was a huge softie but he was extremely protective and VERY intimidating. There was a time in Waco when he kept getting out of our yard and instead of running away he just wanted to lay in the driveway until we got home. We also discovered in that house his insane fear of fireworks. We had left him out in the yard one Fourth of July and when we got home we found him in the garage. It took us a while to figure out how he had gotten in the garage, then Matthew discovered he had literally ripped the door in half to get in himself.

Sampson was our baby before we had babies. He adjusted very well to his 3 siblings. He was very patient with the kids and very protective.

I am so sad he is gone; Matthew and I are just heart broken. My big old strong husband whose emotions are buried WAY below the surface ( no complaints here I prefer it that way) is so torn up. I had decided when we found out about Sam's diagnosis I wanted to be the one to take him to the vet when the time came. It was so sad watching Matthew say goodbye to him.

It's not the same without him here, and unfortunately there are so many reminders of him. I know some people will think he was just a dog, but he wasn't just a dog. He was a huge part of our family. He even had chores-clean Emmy's booster seat and the kitchen floor, and watch the kids in the backyard while playing.

Selfishly, I had to blog about Sampson. I needed to sit here at midnight and remember my extraordinary dog.

Grocery shopping

2008-04-24T09:15:00.003-05:00

Okay I have to blog about this. On Monday night I asked Matthew if he could go to the store for me because I just didn't have time. Now let me tell you Matthew isn't real keen on the grocery store, it's like a vortex to him. He loses all sense when he goes in and he can't find ANYTHING.

I emailed him a list, and I specifically wrote next to fruit (make sure to get enough for the whole week). In our house fresh fruit is a hot commodity and we go through a lot of it. I was sure this was a successful trip because he only called me two times while he was there. No kidding, I normally received about 6 phone calls and I end up unpacking the most random stuff.

So Matthew gets home with the groceries and I start helping him unload and I pull out 1 little rinky dinky plastic thing of blueberries. I was like "what? Emmy will eat one of these by herself for a snack. Then I pull out the bag of oranges and I start laughing because there are only 4 oranges in it. I had to point out to my husband that our family has grown and there are 4 people in this house who consume food on a daily basis. I don't know why this cracks me up so much, but I know I will hear from friends who completely know what I'm talking about.

Complications

2008-04-20T17:43:00.002-05:00

Okay, I spoke too soon about Emmy being fine after surgery. Her temp spiked last night and she is complaining of pain in her head and it's very hard for her to lay down. The on call physician called in some antibiotics, so hopefully they will start working and knock out the infection. Say a little prayer for my sweet girl; specifically for pain relief.

Update on Emmy

2008-04-17T11:25:00.002-05:00

She did great today. When she came out of surgery she was a little weepy and remained so until about an hour ago. Her big brother did a great job of playing with her and cheering her up. Of course now she is enjoying a huge bowl of popcorn. Thanks for all the prayers, we appreciate it.

Emmy needs you now

2008-04-15T22:46:00.002-05:00

Emmy is having her adenoids taken out on Thursday, so we need prayers for her surgery. She had tubes put in when she was 9 months old, but they didn't want to do her adenoids because of her age at the time. Well, her recurring sinus infections have warranted another surgery.

Answered Prayers

2008-04-15T22:40:00.003-05:00

Thank you prayer warriors; we received some awesome news tonight. Peyton's allergy doctor called and said according to his blood test he does not have an allergy to tree nuts and as far as peanuts go, he is in the gray area. So we are going to do a challenge in the doctors office in May. That means I will go buy lots of nuts and they will make him eat them in the doctors office to see if he has a reaction.

That is huge news!!!! Thank you for all the prayers and emails, it meant a lot to me. When we get close to the challenge I will let you know.

If you are wondering about the bandage on his head...he gave himself a HUGE rug burn while in time out. He literally sat there for 5 minutes rubbing his head back and forth on the carpet. It was actually funny, because while talking me to me afterwards it started registering that his head was hurting.

Allergy Testing-prayers needed more than ever

2008-04-11T16:59:00.004-05:00

I'm an awful blogger-I ask y'all for prayer and then I don't report back? That has to break some kind of blogging rules. Okay, several people have asked about Peyton's allergy testing, so I figured I needed to post about it.

We went and had the skin test done and he is positive to every nut, not just peanuts but every nut. However, skin tests can have false positives so we had to do a blood test to confirm those results. Well I finally took him in on Tuesday morning to have it done and can I say I just dreaded it? Matthew usually takes him for his blood tests because he freaks out when I am there. But this time Matthew couldn't bring him. So after putting it off for 2 days I finally took him. peyton did a great job, of course he cried and yelled from the pain BUT he kept his arm straight and they only had to stick him once so that is success. Afterwards, he asked me "am i still brave even though I cried?" Wasn't that sweet?

So I really need y'all praying now-specifically that his blood results are lower than .35 for each nut. I am so burdened by this right now and I pray that he is not allergic any longer. I should hear on Monday and I promise to blog it immediately.

Darn it

2008-04-11T16:50:00.003-05:00

Yesterday as another teacher was escorting Peyton to my car I see his teacher inform the other that she needed to bring him to my car. I immediately thought "this isn't good." So she opens the door to let him in and she says she needs to come around to my side of the car because she has something to tell me. Before I can censor myself I ask "is it bad?" and she smiles and says "well..."

So she makes her way around and she proceeds to tell me today that Peyton had to pay a coin for something (that's their punishment/reward system) and she heard him say "darn it" except it wasn't darn it-replace the rn with mn.

Of course I couldn't get mad at him. When I looked at him in the rear view mirror his eyes were as big as saucers and when I asked him if he knew that was a bad word he just shook his head. It was quite funny.

Bridal Portraits

2008-04-05T15:00:00.003-05:00

I know this is our "family" blog, but I had to post my recent bridal portraits. I had so much fun taking these, I could do bridal portraits all day. The bride just beams in these photos.

Happy Easter

2008-04-01T10:46:00.004-05:00

Here are the Easter pictures I have available thus far. I have about 60 more to edit, so once I pick my faves out of those I will share with y'all.

Isn't this the most beautiful picture of Alli? Her eyes look amazing!

I'm buying a big one of this. She looks so angelic huh? Don't let this runt fool you. She was screaming 75% of the time while taking pics at the Arboretum. She helped confirm Mrs. April's decision to quit having babies.

This isn't a great picture but it captures Emmy's quirky side that rarely comes out.
Look at my little man. He is getting so big and handsome. I'm going to have to fight the girls off with a stick.
Look at her crinkled nose. This is a rare moment as well. It takes a lot to amuse Miss Alli.
This is the look of "get me out of here, my brother and sister are nuts" This was her expression while Peyton and Emmy went wild over their Easter baskets.
We had about 5 seconds before we left for church so why not try to get a family shot with Daddy. Emmy insisted on carrying her chips and rice crispie treat-thanks Mia.

Checking in

2008-03-28T16:29:00.002-05:00

I've just sat at my computer for 45 minutes reading blogs. Like I have nothing better to do? Like the laundry that I can't seem to fold and put away. Oh I can wash it and dry it, but when it comes to folding and putting away-not so much. Or what about unloading the dishwasher? Or what about doing thank you notes for Peyton's birthday that was six weeks ago? Or what about making the poster for science day at school next week? Or what about cutting out 400 measuring tapes for science day? You get my point? Seriously I just spent 45 mintutes looking at blogs? Oh well, I justify it because I hardly watch TV anymore. So I guess this is my entertainment now.

So I thought I would check in and let y'all know things are going well here. Please pray for my Peyton this week. We are going back to the allergist next week to retest for his nut allergy. Our prayer is that the allergy is completely gone. I don't talk about this much ( I never talk about things that really bother me), but it is a HUGE burden for me. I have to have faith everyday that Peyton will not be exposed to something that could end his life. No, I'm not being dramatic, his allergy is that bad. I will update y'all next week on the results.

Lelli Kelly

2008-03-25T16:51:00.002-05:00

The first time I took Peyton shoe shopping when he was one (I don't buy shoes until they walk-why do they need shoes before then?) I saw these Lelli Kelly shoes and I swore if I ever had a girl I would buy her some. Well Emmy's feet finally grew big enough to fit them and we got our first pair. Aren't they the cutest things? And to my heart's delight Emmy loves them.

Alli Eating

2008-03-25T16:21:00.002-05:00

You know it was brought to my attention that I don't blog enough pictures of Alli so here you go...Christie

Poor little Alli is too small for a real highchair so we feed her in the bumbo seat. Doesn't her experession say "Where's the cereal?" She is small but a HUGE eater. She gives her brother a run for his money.

mmmmm pureed carrotts

An Easter activity

2008-03-21T16:27:00.002-05:00

A friend of mine sent this to me and I think I'm going to do it with the kids this weekend. I hope everyone has a wonderful Easter. Mia and Poppa are coming in tomorrow so my kids will be wired and hyper for 24 hours straight. I still don't know what I am making on Sunday, so I think I should get off the computer and make my grocery list.

Resurrection Buns/Empty Tomb Biscuits
1. Each child takes a Grand (or other large ) canned biscuit. They flatten the biscuit out until it's about 5 inches across. They spread melted butter, sugar and cinnamon on it. We explain that the spices represent the spices used to anoint Jesus' body before His burial.

2. Then each child gets one large marshmallow. The marshmallow represents Jesus. It is white because it stands for His purity and His sinless life. They place the marshmallow in the center of the biscuit, then fold the sides around it forming a 'tomb'. (I help the younger children pinch the sides of their tombs closed and then we place them crease side down on a baking sheet so they will not open while cooking).

3.Put more butter, cinnamon and sugar on the outside. We talk about the sweet taste of the spices and how Jesus gave us the sweetest gift we will ever receive.

4. At this point you can go ahead and bake the buns. We wait and bake them in the morning while the kids are hunting the eggs. They need to bake following the directions on the biscuit package. Then they need a little cooling time because the marshmallow will be very hot.

5.When the children bite into their buns they will be surprised to find the center empty. The marshmallow has melted. As each child discovers the empty tomb, we repeat : He is not here for He is risen.

MY WEBSITE

2008-03-19T21:36:00.002-05:00

Is FINISHED!!!!! I have been working on my site since January and I'm so excited I finally get to share it with everyone. I want to say thank you to all my friends and family who have encouraged me through this process. Thank you to my husband and Christie who checked the site everyday and gave me feedback.

Because so much of my business relies upon referrals, please let your friends and family know about me and send them to my website. I have a wonderful referral program where you can earn unlimited free session fees (check out my specials on my site for details).

http://www.kimnielsenphotography.com

Old picture

2008-03-17T15:50:00.002-05:00

If you check my photography blog you will see this posted there. I'm always posting to the wrong blog. Anyways, I am editing a ton of pictures today and I came across this one. I just love their expressions in this photo.

HUGE news

2008-03-13T16:33:00.003-05:00

Oh my goodness, I am so excited! I just saw my logo. MY logo, not someone elses, my logo. It looks fabulous, very simple and very me. I can't wait for y'all to see it. With that said my goal is to have my photography website launched next week. I have invested many hours in my site and I can't wait to share it. I'll be honest I'm a little scared too.

Snow!

2008-03-07T09:52:00.003-06:00

We got some snow last night. Not as much as those a little to the north (literally 10 miles north) but we got some. Peyton was so excited when he got up this morning, we actually let him stay home from school so he could play in it.

Emmy didn't know what to think. It always takes a few minutes for her to warm up to any new situation. However, she did enjoy throwing snow balls mommy made.

2008-03-06T15:22:00.005-06:00

A visit from Christie

2008-03-02T22:51:00.003-06:00

My very best friend (since I was 15) came into town this weekend and we had a BLAST! First you must know it's amazing that they could drive up for the weekend because for the past 6 years she has lived in Wyoming. She finally moved back to Houston this past summer and I am SOOOOO excited.

Christie wanted some family pictures taken at the Arboretum so we first attempted Saturday night, but we were unsuccessful since they had closed it down for a special event. A little bummed we went to Pepe and Mito's in Deep Ellum to drown our sorrows in chips and salsa. Then we came home and played the game phase 10 into the wee hours of the morning. I lost horribly last night but redeemed myself today and kicked the tar out of everybody-I still claim I'm not competitve :)

So everyone was up and at em this morning so we could get to the arboretum at 9:00 and here is a sampling of the pictures I took. I'm only half way done editing so I will post a few more.

This is Cade....isn't he cute?

Here is Cameron-I love his cheeks!

Peyton's Birthday

2008-02-26T16:34:00.005-06:00

We took a few friends to Build a Bear this year and Peyton had a great time. Here he is with his best friend from school.

Isn't he handsome??? I can't believe he is 5.

Little sissy couldn't hang with the big kids.

Alli

2008-02-26T16:29:00.002-06:00

It's been brought to my attention that I don't post many pictures of Alli. I don't mean to ignore my little angel but she sleeps a lot so it's hard to take pictures. But isn't she beautiful? Look at those eyes....I could drown in them. I took her to the eye doctor yesterday because she has a slightly wandering eye (thanks to Daddy) and they found she is slightly farsighted with astigmatism. We go back in a few months to check it out and see if she needs glasses.

SICK

2008-02-21T12:20:00.002-06:00

Oh my gosh I am so sick. Not only do I have the flu I was fortunate enough to get strep on top of it. Not kidding. Poor Peyton was sick last week and his horrible cough has continued into this week. Emmy woke up this morning with her voice almost completely gone and a cough and now Alli is coughing as well. By God's grace my pediatrician called all 3 kids in some meds-Tamiflu for the older 2 and cough medicine for all of them.

You're probably wondering why I'm on the computer. Because my middle child has an obsession with Barney and I can't sit on my couch and watch another episode of Barney. So I'm half way leaning back in my office chair reading blogs. Oh yes, it's been plop your kid infront of a tv all week and pray they leave you alone. So far so good, except I had to get up 2 times to change the episode of Barney and 3times to get Emmy new snacks.

Back to the blogs, a girl in my photography group sent out a list of sites she frequents and she included this great blog check it out: http://thepioneerwoman.com

Peyton and his colorful imagination

2008-02-20T16:27:00.003-06:00

What is this you ask? It's Peyton's scuba diver dress up. He is obsessed with dressing up and recently he has started creating his own costumes. If you ever see us out and about on the weekend you will probably see him in one of these get ups. We have decided not to fight it, plus we love that it shows his imagination.

Little Miss Temper

2008-02-20T16:01:00.002-06:00

The funniest thing happened on Sunday-Emmy pitched a little temper tantrum. Now that's not unusual or funny most of the time but this time was classic. Duckie (infamous Deb, now known as Duck to Emmy) was in town for the day and we had been running errands and goofing around. We were all in the kitchen when Emmy decided she wanted something but for the life of me I could not figure it out. Totally fed up with me she screams goes to my room and slams the door. We're all standing there laughing ever so quietly so she doesn't hear when all of the sudden she swings the door open and heaves a laundry basket into the hallway followed by a loud slam of the door again. It was so dang funny I couldn't discipline her for it.

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-16T22:41:00.002-06:00

Late- I know sorry. We've had a crazy week. With Peyton's birthday and Valentine's party at school it's been nuts. Not to mention Peyton got sick this week-some kind of lung thing and I think he might have passed it onto me. I'm not feeling horrible, but I don't have an appetite and my chest feels a little scratchy if that makes any sense.

Does it look like I jipped Peyton in this photo shoot? Well I did Emmy's first, you know before grumpyness set in. So I went to do Peytons (and yes he insisted on his outfit) I only got 3 pics before my battery went dead. Ofcourse, Mom of the year didn't get any of Alli so now I will have to back track and pretend I took them at the same time-all for the sake of scrapbooking.

Do you love the new template?

2008-02-15T22:28:00.002-06:00

Boy I do. It took me so long to switch because I was scared to lose my widgets. But thankfully I didn't. I love the simplicity of this one. It doens't have all that blinding pink swirly things.

Isn't this the sweetest?

2008-02-14T23:11:00.002-06:00

This picture melts my heart. I have prayed and will continue to pray that my children will treat their siblings as the gift they truly are.

They truly love each other and enjoy each other.

Alli and Cereal

2008-02-14T23:05:00.002-06:00

I was completely spoiled by my older children. When I started cereal with Peyton and Emily they both gobbled it up and wanted more from the get go. Not little Alli. We tried it at 4 months for the first time and you would have thought by her reaction I was putting my big toe in her mouth. So, we gave it up for a month and decided to give it another go in February.

I started back this week and I have to admit I was nervous. My first attempt was on Monday and it went okay. I think I got in about 10 bites and then she was done. Ofcourse, Emmy is standing in the chair next to me the whole time and she insisted on wiping Alli's mouth after every spoonful. She is so motherly-it's adorable.

Well I think tonight Alli fell in love with cereal. She gobbled it up like nobody's business, and if I went too long before the next bite she would get quite fussy.

First Commercial job

2008-02-10T22:49:00.000-06:00

Here are some pictures from my first commerical photoshoot. I had so much fun photographing these beautiful pieces of jewelry. I will admit I got some pretty strange looks at the park today. It was packed with families enjoying the gorgeous weather and then there I was with this huge camera taking pictures of necklaces. This shoot was also special because I used my new Canon 5D camera and new L series lens.

The Big Secret

2008-02-08T16:44:00.000-06:00

Are you ready to hear the big secret? I have decided to do photography professionally. This is something that has always been in the back of my mind and God just opened up doors for it to happen recently.

I have been crazy busy, researching and buying new equipment. Taking several photography courses, and now building a website. It should be up and running by the beginning of March. I am so excited! I have a friend who is a wonderful graphic artist working on my logo. I will be attending a workshop in Chicago with a wonderful natural light photographer- I am so excited to see this lady in action.

God has truly led this whole experience and I am so grateful I get to chase after my passion. I am also truly grateful God gave me a husband who supports me and believes in me. As my friend April said that's how I know it's a God thing because Matthew has been on board since day 1.

Too funny

2008-01-31T09:01:00.000-06:00

I have heard that several friends think my secret is I'm pregnant. I am rolling on the floor laughing at this. NO I AM NOT PREGNANT. No we are extremely happy with 3 children.

I have to brag

2008-01-28T22:05:00.000-06:00

I have to brag on my little man. At Peyton's school they handle discipline/rewards with a coin system. When they follow directions, exhibit good behavior etc they receive gold coins. When they break a rule or hurt someone they pay coins. Well every 2 weeks Smiley Mart opens and the kids get to spend their coins. You know some kids like to save their coins for something really big, not my son. He spends every week. Evidently last week he had a lot of coins and he got to get 2 big things. He bought one thing for himself and Disney princess doll for Emily. I was shocked. When he told me I got teary eyed because I thought it was sweet of him to think about his sister. He says this week he's going to get her a bracelet. I explained that he doesn't have to buy something for her every week. Peyton is definitly all boy-he can be rough and loud, but he has such a sweet tender side to him.

Sorry

2008-01-28T22:00:00.000-06:00

Sorry guys I haven't been blogging. Big things have been happening over here and I am a little preoccupied with that. Shhh it's a secret but I will reveal soon. Several people have noticed that my photography blog doesn't work. I deleted that one and I have started a new one, but I'm not finished yet. When I am finished uploading all the pics, I will send out the link.

I can't believe I did this either

2008-01-24T08:34:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I wore a brown jogging suit with a white tee shirt underneath. For those of you who have seen me in the past 4 months you know that is dressing up. Anyway, I was getting ready for bed last night took off my jacket and realized I had worn my tee shirt inside out all day long. What is wrong with me?

Something is going on aournd our house because last week Matthew realized he wore the wrong suit jacket with his pants. I almost pee peed on myself when he told me this. I guess it was my turn.

I can't believe I did this

2008-01-16T12:48:00.000-06:00

The other night I was getting Alli ready for bed. Dressed her, zipped her in her blanket, fed her, and put her to bed. Amazingly she slept all night even after getting 4 shots. Well when I went in to get her she was soaked, I mean soaked! I put her on the changing table and when I took off her PJs I found that I had not put a diaper on her the night before. I still can't believe it. What I really can't believe is she slept through the night with that mess. Of course she has not slept through the night since then. I'm struggling here y'all. She slept through the night at 3 months, a whole month and half before the other two kids. I was elated. BAM-she gets RSV. We kissed sleeping through the night goodbye. A couple of weeks later she starts sleeping through the night for 3 days and BAM an ear infection. A couple of weeks later she does it for 2 nights and BAM shots. Tonight we are crying it out. She is not hungry just codependent.

SUPER GIRL

2008-01-12T20:55:00.000-06:00

Emily LOVES Peyton and she will do anything he does. One day while he was at school she brought me his Super Man costume and insisted on wearing it. She has princess costumes and fairy costumes but she won't touch them.

Alli's first cereal

2008-01-12T20:50:00.001-06:00

First bite. We're doing ok right?

Nope. She hates it. I've tried 4 times and she will have no part of that evil spoon. We've put off cereal until 5 months.

Emmy's birthday party

2008-01-12T20:44:00.001-06:00

We had her party at Little Gym. It was great and all the kids had a wonderful time.

First Pig tails

2008-01-12T20:39:00.000-06:00

Doesn't she look cute? Can you believe she doesn't have a bow on?