The Nelsons

Stitches!

2012-02-13T11:42:00.000-08:00

Carley fell on a 2 inch bolt at church on Sunday and it went into her knee. Cody and I (and Corey) immediately took her to the ER with a quick stop at the first aid station at church for Cody to do a pressure wrap first. We got there and they took her back immediately. Luckily it missed her tendons and she just needed stitches. Poor girl was HURTING! So far she is doing well as long as I keep the Motrin and other medicine coming! She just has to avoid PE and dance for 2 weeks. Luckily today was a snow day so I have been able to keep her home with me and keep her off of it. Sweet girl!

Before stitches. Still bleeding. This picture does not do it justice.

After stitches. Much better.

The next day. You can see some bruising but seems to be on track to heal well!

Cinderella Ball

2012-02-10T20:03:00.000-08:00

Carley had her Valentine/Cinderella Ball at school today. It was insane and precious. The moms (not me) worked so hard on it and it really was cute. The girls had to ask a boy to the ball and then the boys had to ask their date to dance. Carley was with her super cute friend, Blake M. They had such a good time. Then they had the Mom/Son and Daddy/Daughter dance to "Cinderella" and I have to say that watching Cody and Carley made me cry. Man, time is flying with our Cinderella. It really does take my breath away.

Then the kids did the Cha Cha Slide and the Chicken Dance. Afterwards they had a pizza party and exchanged Valentines. Seriously, how cute is her Valentine Card holder?

Mom/Daughter Date Night

2012-02-08T12:39:00.000-08:00

Friday night Carley and I went on a date. She had a perfect attendance card for a free meal and dessert at Outback and then I bought tickets for her and me to go to Masterfollies at LCU. I just loved the night with my girl. She got so excited, put on a new dress, and wanted to wear make up.

At dinner she made friends with the waitress and the waitress let Carley go in the KITCHEN with her and help make her sundae! Carley was so excited and her dessert was HUGE!

She was WAY excited for the show!

And she fell asleep on the way home. Love my sweet girl!

Pereception

2012-02-01T18:50:00.001-08:00

Max and Ruby

2012-02-01T18:34:00.000-08:00

My kids are obsessed with Max and Ruby.

Here is the synopsis. Created by children's book author/illustrator Rosemary Wells and based on the world of her Max and Ruby books, the episodes present stories about Max, a rambunctious and determined three-year-old rabbit, and his big sister, Ruby, a patient, goal-oriented, sometimes restrictive seven-year-old rabbit.

Can you see how they relate? I love that they are embracing their brother/sister bond and love to do things together.

100th day of school

2012-02-01T18:29:00.000-08:00

Today was Carley's 100th day of school. She was so excited! She came in to our room at 5:40 am already dressed for the day. I think she was a little too excited. She made a necklace with 100 beads, brought 100 goldfish, and 100 cents.

This post was a good way to remind me to do a small Carley update.

- She is way in love with her Baby Boy doll that she named Squigley. She received him as a present the day we told her that Corey was going to be a boy and not a little sister. She stopped playing with "Squigs" for awhile, but he is back in front burner postion with Elly.

- Carley would wear a dress every day if we would let her.
- She also told me something funny tonight. She said, "Mom you are the best mother in the world." The she paused and said, "Well except for Mary because, you know, she had Jesus".

Hard to argue with that logic.

Thankful

2012-01-29T13:37:00.000-08:00

I want to take a moment to acknowledge my thankfulness for an answered prayer. To the rest of the world, this is not a big deal and part of growing up, but it means so much to me. So far, the Nelsons have been healthy for a long time. Carley had her tonsils & adenoids out this Summer and so far she has not had one serious cough or cold of any kind! She has had minor seasonal allergies, no strep or anything like that! I am not boasting or bragging at all! I am just acknowledging God has answered our prayer for healthier kids! The only thing going on with her little body are a couple of UTI's this year and we are working on that. Also she has been going to the dermatologist since October because she had 6 planters warts on her foot. They have been nasty but 2 weeks ago, they cleared up! It seriously is another answered prayer!

Corey spent last January sick almost the entire time. So far he has not had any ear infections or throat infections since October. Last night he ran fever for about 2 hours and it was the first time in forever. He has a cough that has turned nasty. Hopefully we can treat it with stuff we have here. Either way, this is the healthiest this little guy has been maybe his entire life. Once again, I am not jinxing anything or boasting, I am just so thankful that God has answered our prayers for a healthier winter!

We have friends and friends of friends who have very sick family members. Whether it is a sick baby or a sick parent, it is sad to watch and we are fervently praying to the Great Healer on their behalf.

I received my printed blog book for 2011 a couple of weeks ago and it reminded me again why I love to blog. It also is such evidence of God's hand moving and working in our family. The best posts are the ones where you can see God answered a prayer. I would be ungrateful not to acknowledge what He has done on our behalf again and again!

On the Move!

2012-01-29T13:33:00.000-08:00

Grammy and Pawpaw Spann bought Corey a Mickey Mouse motorized scooter for Christmas. This little guy loves it. He loves to go. He is great at pushing the pedals and not good at all at steering, which keeps mom busy when he rides. He is so cute on it and feels so big. How am I supposed to be serious with this little tough guy?

Sweet Carley Moment

2012-01-19T06:21:00.000-08:00

on Sunday night, Carley was playing in the yard of the home we attend for Growth Group kind of off on her own. It was dark and she was looking at the stars. On the way home she said she needed to tell me something. She said she God talked to her. I asked her what He said and she said he just put his voice in her heart and He told her, "You are the only you and I love you. Obey your parents. Trust in Me all the time." She said it so seriously and so innocently. She said it was an important moment. Those were her words. That night she picked two bible books to read and she said her good night prayer and it brought tears to my eyes. It went something like this, " Dear God, Thank you for talking to my heart. I love you too and I will follow you forever. I will always be yours. I trust and hope in your power. Thank you for Jesus. In his name I pray, Amen".

I am not sure what all went on that night, but I am so thankful that Carley's faith is becoming real and she understands prayer is a two way conversation.

Lord, please grow faith in our Carley. Help Cody and I to parent her in the way you want her to grow and in ways that let your love bloom inside of her. Help her words tonight to be true and let her always follow you. It is humbly in your son's name I pray, Amen

These Two

2012-01-19T06:17:00.001-08:00

..melt my heart. Carley loves to read the Bible to Corey. These two can fight and scream at each other, but most of the time, they are so sweet and loving. I hope this friendship lasts a lifetime!

Nana

2012-01-19T06:13:00.001-08:00

Last Wednesday night I was bathing the kids and Cody was at the station. My mom called and surprised me by offering to come spend the night and get the kids ready for bed and school. I cannot tell you how thankful I was. Mom showed up, got kids in pjs, and started rocking. My kids just LOVED it. They really cannot get enough of my parents. I cleaned up the kitchen and read books with Corey. After we was asleep, I found mom and Carley in Carley's twin bed. Carley had talked Nana in to sleeping with her. My sweet mom completely agreed. I was asleep by 9:15 and rested so well knowing Nana was here. Thanks again mom for coming even when I don't ask. We love you!

January is off and running!

2012-01-08T12:16:00.000-08:00

I started back to work on January 2nd which was a VERY early start. The first week was good. We are off and running. Carley was so excited to go back to Kinder! She had a great couple of days getting some private attention though. One day she stayed with Cody and he took her shooting for the first time. He said she loves it and is a good shot. It sure scares me! Not my thing, but I am trying to be super supportive. The next day she spent the day getting all the attention from Nana. I am glad she had those days to get some love before another semester was underway.

Corey is busy, busy, busy, but cute, cute, cute. He loves school, his class, and his teacher. I am so thankful for our daycare.

I thought the kids looked especially cute this morning at church.

Carley and her match, Ashley-Rose. Corey in his fire engine gear. he did decide to throw a fit before we left and I got that captured below. Love my sweet babies!

Books I read over the break

2011-12-31T06:11:00.000-08:00

I read 4 books over the last 2 weeks and loved each one.

- The Next Always by Nora Roberts - I always enjoy her books so much and this trilogy had me hooked the first book. Can't wait for the other two!

- Fly Away Home by Jennifer Weiner - This was an interesting book about a family whose lives changes when the father, who is a senator, has had an affair. It is a really good read. It is sad in parts, but also very realistic I thought. I am glad I read it.

- Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks - This book gets really intense. It is not a sappy love story like some of his others. I thought it was a really good read and a good mystery in some ways.

-Longing by Karen Kingsbury - this is the 3rd in the 4th of the Bailey Flannagan series and I was really surprised by this book. It was not predictable like some of her others. I don't mean that bad, but usually you can guess what is coming and I was wrong several times in this one. I have really enjoyed the Bailey Flannagan series.

What are you reading?

Who?

2011-12-30T19:01:00.000-08:00

Who pooped in the potty for the first time?

Who tells me no 100 times before 7:00 am?

Who could watch the Wiggles 24-7?

Who sings songs all day long?

Who loves to cuddle with his Mommy?

Who is becoming a picky eater?

Who is a mess?

Who is the most ticklish, loving 2 year old on the planet?

Who wears his mommy out?

This little fireball

Mud Room Birthday Party

2011-12-29T18:12:00.001-08:00

To celebrate her 6th Birthday, Carley had a birthday party at The Mud Room. She and 7 of her friends had fun painting pottery signs. The girls were so cute and so proud of their products! We are so thankful for her new little school friends and the good semester she has had in Kinder. We are also super thankful that our best buds and cousins could stay for the party.

Family Birthday Party

2011-12-29T17:58:00.000-08:00

Carley had a super fun time at Chuck E Cheese with most of the Spanns, the Cores, and the O'Rear oldest girls as well as our Nelson family. She loved celebrating with people she loves and being celebrated by people she loves!

Grammy gave her a new doll, Ashley Rose. Tim's family and Jason's family gave her the carrier. Aaron's family gave her a new outfit and headband. Mom and Dad gave her a purse and journal (with locks). She was in hog heaven. Here are some of my favorite faces from the evening.

SIX!!

2011-12-29T12:46:00.000-08:00

Carley turned SIX! WOW! That number takes 2 hands to hold up!

Here is Carley's interview about herself.

What are your nicknames: Pumpkin ( I have never heard anyone call her this, but whatever), Sparkle (my nickname for her), Sissy (Corey's), Carley-girl (Cody's nickname for her)

What is your favorite food: Macaroni and Cheese, Hot Dogs, Quesadillas, Cheese Pizza

What are your favorite drinks: Water and Milk and sometimes juice

What are you favorite things to do: hang out with my entire family, cuddle with Elly, and play with my Barbies, draw, play on computer, and read

Who are your best friends at church: Addison, Landon, Jones, Nehemiah,

Who are your best friends at school: Elise, Hannah, Addisyn, Annabelle

What is your favorite thing about Kindergarten: PE or Gym Time, ABC's, and Fun work

What is your favorite think about Mrs. Kauffman, your teacher: She is very nice and she makes sure that everybody is paying attention at Phonics Time

What do you like to do with your Mom: Go Swimming, Cook (definitely), and sleep with you

What do you like to do with your Dad: Go shooting, practice being a fire fighter, and color

What do you like to do with Corey: play with him and cuddle with him

What do you want to be when you grow up: A rockstar or a firefighter

Carley-girl- There really are no words to tell you how much we love you, how proud we are of you, and what joy you bring to our lives. You have grown up so much this year before our eyes and we delight in it and it breaks our heart to see how fast time is going. This year you have become less shy around strangers, blossomed at school, rolled with the punches better than we could ever have thought, moved forward academically, and developed a sweet, sincere, and heart-felt way of praying that takes my breath away. You are growing in your faith so much and it makes my heart sing. You are still imaginative, creative, expressive, and emotional, but you are also becoming reflective and thoughtful. We just love you to pieces and love the great work God is doing in you. Happy 6th birthday, baby. We love you.

Christmas Week

2011-12-27T19:28:00.000-08:00

Since Cody had to work Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Santa came early to the Nelsons. Corey and Carley were super excited to receive the Buzz and Woody dolls and the Barbie Floor Art Pads that they wanted. Magic is so special at these ages. Carley wrote Santa the sweetest letter, telling him how much she appreciated him coming to her house on the 23rd. Papa and Nana were able to come over and spend Christmas Eve with us and then come back for our Christmas morning festivities.

Then on Christmas Eve we had a great Christmas with the Spanns. Grammy and Pawpaw were generous to a fault and we loved spending time with them and all the other families. We are so blessed.

That night Cody went to the station and I sang at the Candlelight Christmas Eve Service at church. Christmas morning was just me and the kids and I definitely missed Cody. We were glad to be reunited with him on Christmas night. Then Monday, the 26th the O'Rear's came for our Christmas. It was great being together. We got lots of gifts and had fun sharing with everyone. The kids love eachother SO much....sometimes TOO much! :) It was a wonderful week with family and friends celebrating the birth of Christ. We are so thankful.

Carley's Christmas Dance and SANTALAND

2011-12-22T11:18:00.000-08:00

We had a fun Monday night. We went to watch Carley do her Christmas Dance. She is looking very grown up to me these days. After that we went to Santa Land. We had a really great time and we were super thankful Nana was able to come to both!

Few things make me smile as much as Corey in a bear jacket

Corey hopped right up and talked to Mr. and Mrs. Clause like they were his best friends. It was really cute. Carley as sweet and whispered to Santa when she talked to him. They both were in awe.

LOVE my hubby SO much!

Carley's Christmas Concert

2011-12-18T20:11:00.000-08:00

Carley had her first school concert and it was really cute. They did 5 songs. She loved every minute of it. I hope she loves choir and singing as much as I did and still do. She also got to sing a song with a children's chorus at church in early December. She was very brave to sing in front of so many in our huge auditorium. We are super proud of our little singer!

Carley and her good pals Hannah and Elise

Carley and her choir teacher Mr. Wood and our favorite Kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Kauffman!

Her biggest fans

Christmas Pictures

2011-12-17T08:01:00.000-08:00

We have had lots of great photos of the kids taken over the past month. Here are some of my favorites.

Corey had his school picture taken in Christmas gear.Santa also came to his school to give the list of Nice Kids.

Santa came to Carley's party too!

This is my school picture. Do you ever look at yourself and think, "When did I age?" Here I am at 33.

A little Time Machine

2011-12-12T01:46:00.000-08:00

Doug Sims was my teacher in 5th grade at church. The other day he found this at church in the back of the teachers workroom. I bet Rebecca (Becky Reams Smith) and I wrote this around 5th grade which is over 20 years ago. It is funny that is still there, untouched, unerased, just hanging on the wall. It is special to live in the town and attend the church you grew up in. There are moments like this that are endearing and special that remind you of your roots and makes me thankful for my family at church.

My Newest Holiday Favorites

2011-12-03T14:05:00.000-08:00

I always love finding new things around the holiday. Here are a few of my favorites:

- My Favorite Hot Drink - Chai Latte K Cups for the Keurig. I HATE coffee and this is such a great substitute and a little more adult than my usual hot chocolate. :)

- My Favorite Kids Movie - Barbie Perfect Christmas This has the greatest music and a really sweet message. Both of my kids (and their momma) can stay glued the entire time. It is a good holiday movie.

- My favorite new ornaments. I got these at a Christmas in July sale online at Personalization.com. They finished cute and were a great price. I love stuff with all our names Favorite New Item for the house - I got this at Holiday Happening this year and I love it. It was a new vendor and they were super reasonably priced. I love it. It is an 11x14 canvas.

Also, Santa sent Carley a video again this year! She loves it! Here it is!

http://www.portablenorthpole.tv/watch/m_yTsbjSZWXnTrjSl_4keeg

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-25T19:44:00.001-08:00

We have so much to be thankful for. God has been gracious to us in millions of ways and millions more that I am sure I claim as my own and do not acknowledge Him for. We have had a wonderful few days with Alyssa's family and Mom and Dad.

I also got to have some cool moments with my nieces! I pulled Camryn's first tooth and we were able to celebrate Addison's first birthday! I just loved my time with each of the three O'Rear girls who are growing up way too fast.

What I have been reading and watching

2011-11-22T14:22:00.000-08:00

I read these two books this week, "A Stolen Life" and "Choosing to See". Both books were incredibly touching, made me cry, and were the tales of endurance, perseverance, hope, and surviving the unthinkable.

For Jaycee her story is the story of a child victimized in the most horrendous way for almost two decades. She overcame so much, stayed strong, and is making a new life for her and her daughters.

For Mary Beth, it was a story of tragedy that happened in a moment. Her daughter was accidentally run over by her son and the battle to fight to move on, to trust, and have faith.

Both stories share such amazing stories that I really recommend that you read. Both stories are great resources and stories of hope. One thing that stood out was the other character in Mary Beth's story. That character that is there through the entire story is God. She knows He is there, hurting, crying, loving, healing, supporting, and working in POWERFUL ways. For Jaycee he is never mentioned. Both ladies are moving on and overcoming so much, but I am left to think how much more Jaycee would have had if she would have known Jesus. I can't imagine.

These books are excellent. I would be interested to see who out there has read both and what you thought.

Holiday Brunch

2011-11-21T07:28:00.000-08:00

We had our annual Holiday Brunch at church on Saturday. Cody was at work and my dad kept Corey so I took my little girl with me. I had been asked to lead the closing prayer so Friday night I asked Carley if she wanted to do it. So we typed out a prayer together on the computer and on Saturday, she read it into a microphone in front of a hundred women. I am so proud of my little reader who gains confidence and grace each day with the things she does. There are moments when you look at your kids and they seem so little, but Saturday she seemed so big. She seemed taller, older, more mature, and more confident. I am so thankful for the moments we have with our kids. Life is too precious.

A Day to Be Thankful For

2011-11-18T18:40:00.000-08:00

Today was one of those great and easy days! Carley had her Thanksgiving lunch and then I took a half day off of work to do some shopping with my momma!

Here we are enjoying lunch with Carley and her good friend, Indian Princess E!

Mom and I enjoying Holiday Happening

Quite a November

2011-11-18T18:24:00.000-08:00

This November has been a hard one. There has been lots of sadness that has surrounded our family. I haven't had much to blog about. Sometimes there are not enough words. There has been much to pray about and that is really all we have been able to do.

- A precious girl who grew up at Broadway and was a Sophomore at ACU died in a bus accident. Anabel Reid was a great kid who lived a life that reflected the power of God. She loved Him and we know she rests in His arms.
- A Frenship student died in an accident the weekend before Anable. It is always sad to see a life cut short. The FISD community has been greatly affected by this loss.
- One of my precious friend's from college has been carrying a precious miracle baby in her womb that has been fighting for her life from the beginning. Kamara has been such a woman of strength and the sweet life of Marabeth Renee Cox ended today before it began. Kamara is delivering her sweet stillborn baby today. My heart hurts for this family.
- A great guy has come into Cody's and my lives over the past month. We have been blessed by his friendship and have sort of adopted him as a younger brother. He has an amazing family but they are hours away and he needs to support and encouragement here in Lubbock. The Nelson family immediately began to love our Bryson who is fighting some major battles in his life. He needs the Lord, he needs deliverance, he needs justice, and he needs us. We are so thankful for him, but our hearts are heavy as we watch him fight a huge battle.
- In September, a precious elder at our church and family friend died in a motorcycle accident. We still miss Mr. Rusty and his leadership and wisdom.
- A few couples close to us are in various stages of divorce right now. Our heart hurts for them, their children, and the loss of love.
- And on the most nonimportant note of all, Corey has become a horrible sleeper. The toddler bed did not work. He ended up on a twin daybed and he is up and down several times a night. I cannot remember the last time I slept through the night. Cody and I are both weary from this and it makes a hurting spirit feel even more defeated. Daily we are trying to work this out for us and get a good night of sleep for our family and especially our little boy.

And in the midst of all of this, God's mercies has fallen like rain upon us. We have seen His hand clearly move, comfort, restore, and heal. He is alive and active in our world! There is NOTHING greater to be thankful for each and every day. Our prayers are not falling on deaf ears and we believe He is reclaiming each of these hard situations for His own! In this time it is so easy to see why we need the Lord to come back. This world is not our own and I find no greater comfort in knowing that He has prepared a place for us for eternity!

Carley Lost Her First Tooth!

2011-11-05T19:53:00.001-07:00

After weeks and weeks of wiggling, I pulled Carley's first tooth tonight! She is beyond excited! As a mom it was the strangest feeling. It was her first tooth in her mouth when she was months old and tonight I pulled it. This full circle stuff kills me!

Congrats baby! We are so proud of you!

I Out!

2011-11-02T09:46:00.001-07:00

Corey learned to climb out of his crib. I cannot tell you how much we are NOT ready for this! With Carley she never tried to climb out and stayed in her crib till she was about 2 1/2 and then we did twin mattresses on the floor till she was 3 when she got a bed. Corey is so little and so confident. He is not scared at all and thinks it is great that he has all of this freedom. Last night he came in 3 times. He was so proud of himself, yelling, "I out! I out!" We are frantically trying to find out another plan. Once again, this boy is getting too big too fast!

We tried to turn the bed around the next night to where he couldn't climb out, but he figured it out again. Today we are trying the conversion to the toddler bed. Hopefully he likes it!

Trick Or Treating

2011-11-02T09:40:00.000-07:00

We had a great time taking the kids trick or treating. First we went to the Trunk or Treat at our church which was GREAT! In fact that was the best one we had been to ever. Tigger was there great time greeting all the kids and mine were especially excited to be related to Tigger! A couple of highlights for me where:
1. Carley wanted to take pictures like a real bride out side of the church where we got married. She was so hilarious and so cute. She really wanted her daddy to lift her vail. Once again, SO cute!2. We stopped and saw Granny who used to keep Carley. She was so sweet and Carley just adores her.
3. Corey tried to go in the house of everyone where we trick or treated. It was so funny, so frustrating, so embarrassing, and so exhausting. He literally tried to run in at EVERY HOUSE! That little Elmo Nelson wore us out and made us laugh!

80's Halloween Party

2011-10-30T13:52:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at an 80's Halloween Party for the whole family. They had 80's food (Moon pie's, Totino's pizza, Pac man Cookies, Rice Krispie treats, and chips and dips), 80's music, the kids Tye-Dyed shirts, and we had a great time with lots of friends. Cody even won the costume contest! How could he not with this cute outfit!

Daddy Daughter Fun

2011-10-28T19:11:00.000-07:00

Cody spent the morning at Kindergarten on Thursday helping her class carve pumpkins. Carley was so excited Daddy was coming to school with her she could barely sleep. They had a great time and carved a really cute pumpkin! My husband is super talented. Here they are putting the pumpkin on our porch tonight.

Pumpkin Walk

2011-10-26T19:15:00.000-07:00

I love the Pumpkin Walk. There are lots of cute little exhibits and fun pumpkins for the kids to look at. Carley loves it every year.

How cute is the Angry Birds display?

Love Captain Hook's ship! It even had smoke coming out of the cannons.

Corey the Firefighter

2011-10-22T20:59:00.000-07:00

We went to the station tonight and Corey played on the firetruck. Both of my kids would go to the station with their dad and play all shift if he would let them. It is such a fun place to visit. Here are my two firefighters playing!

Cody would yell, "Corey drive to the fire!" Corey would start making the siren sound and turn the wheel.

Chatting with dad on the radio

Hi Mom!

Carley's Ocotoberfest at School

2011-10-22T20:49:00.001-07:00

We had Carley's fall festival tonight and she loved it. She had a great time seeing her teachers and playing games. I didn't get enough pictures because we were hurrying around, but it was a great time. Carley's teacher had a color hair spray booth and I wish I would have taken a photo of the pink glitter hair! We arrived at the same time as Elise so we had a great time with their family too. It is always fun to raise kids with your friends. She also got to play Bingo with her friends Addyson and Brady which made her day. We are so thankful she loves school and the people she is around.

Kinder School Picture

2011-10-22T20:44:00.000-07:00

Here is Carley's Kindergarten School Picture. It totally cracks me up. She had a super cute bow in that day, but she left it on her desk before the picture and forgot it for the photo! I wish I would have been there to make her wear it, but at the same time, this is my Carley-girl. It also may be her last picture with a mouth full of baby teeth. She is growing before my eyes. At the same time, when she is asleep, she still looks like the baby I brought home from the hospital. I just love her sweet profile.

Happy Halloween 2011

2011-10-21T12:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween from our Bride and our Elmo!

What My Little Lady is up to....

2011-10-19T18:41:00.000-07:00

GROWING TOO FAST!

There are phases with Carley where we butted heads every hour of every day, it felt like. Right now is NOT that way. For the most part, she is SUPER sweet, very helpful, and my little shadow. She loves school to pieces. She wishes she had more spelling tests, more homework, and more hours in the day. She is a happy little clam there. It warms my heart and has been an answer to prayers. So far she has made lots of friends and is enjoying the challenges and creativity she gets to tackle each day!

She really wants her bangs to grow out. Carley is not patient with this process at all and loves to talk about the day all her hair goes back in a twistie. So do I, girl, so do I!
When Cody is at the station she likes to sleep in clothes that remind her of him. Usually this is a pink LFD t-shirt or a baseball t-shirt pictured below. One of the best parts of Kinder has been that Cody takes her to school most days. She loves this time with her dad.
Carley has her first loose tooth! She is very excited!

Today she asked me to teach her about Justin Beiber so she could sing more songs during recess. She also got asked to a birthday party for a classmate. The limo will pick them up and take them to Sweet and Sassy. I realize I am sheltered, but I have kept Carley from all of that. I just didn't want to open that can of worms. Well she is SO excited about this and cannot wait! This girl is getting too big!

She got a golden ticket at school for showing good character and kindness. She got to call home from the principal's office, sit at a special table under a tent in the cafeteria, she got magnets, stickers, a pencil, and she got to sign her name in the celebrity book. This made her so happy! We are super proud of our sweet girl!

What My Little Man is Up to....

2011-10-19T18:34:00.001-07:00

...trouble! Just Kidding.

We finally got his 2 year old pictures made. He has had big bumps and black eyes on his sweet little face consistently from being a busy toddler and I really wanted a mostly clear face!

He is REALLY into Toy Story and his best buddies Woody and Buzz. Here he is in his Buzz pjs with his Woody bear watching the movie. He is so funny. We just talks and talks to them.

He is also WAY into his fire boots. He wears them as often as possible and will only wear them if he gets to do it himself. That is his other favorite thing which are these phases, "I do it self". "No help, Momma", "no touch Corey", "Corey So big!". That little guys is one cute, independent, booger!

The Case of the Missing Purse

2011-10-19T18:29:00.000-07:00

So as previous blogged, my purse was taken from my basket at Toys R Us in an area not filmed. I cancelled all my cards, filed a police report, and Cody and I made several trips up there to check on the status. Monday, I get a call that my purse had been found at Toys R Us. When I went up there, all my contents were in it, but the purse had definitely been dug through. It had been found behind several boxes in an aisle and area I did not go in by the night crew. Oddly enough, the area did not have good film quality either. It seems like an employee took it and stashed it and never came back for it. My guess is they either got nervous knowing we had already filed a police report or they tried my cards and realized they were canceled. Either way, I am SO happy to have it back!

I am still holding fast that the Nelsons are going to slow down and do a better job of simple family time!

Keep It Simple, Stupid

2011-10-16T13:16:00.000-07:00

How many times have I seen KISS - Keep It Simple, Stupid and thought, I should try to make some simplifying changes to make my world run a little more smoothly. Well, I have not posted all of October yet because nothing has seem simple. We have been running around like crazy. The kids have had random sicknesses. Cody and I have been swamped with work. We have had obligation, after obligation, after plan, after plan.

Saturday my purse was stolen from my basket at Toys R Us. All 4 of us were there and to make a long story short, my mind was in a million places and I wasn't paying attention. It was gone and when I realized it, it was too late. We had planned a big night last night of taking the kids out of town. At the last minute we changed our minds so we would stay here, but take the kids for a fun dinner and then to the drive in. Well after spending Saturday afternoon canceling all of my accounts, I realized I had no money (or cards, or accounts, or purse) and Cody had $8. This needs to last us till Wednesday when the new cards come. So we had a change of plans for our family. Since we had hyped up Carley with a big surprise family night, we had to come up with something. So instead we had a "Hot Dog Party" and ate hot dogs on left over party plates from parties we had years ago and had extra plates and napkins. Then we went to Legacy Playvillage. Why have the Nelsons never been to this huge, fun, free park? Finally we used a Groupon from Bahama Bucks. When I was drying Carley's hair before bed she talked about how much fun she had that night and that the Hot Dog party was the most fun surprise she can remember.

I HATE that my purse is gone along with all of my identification, keys, sunglasses, make up, camera, etc. But I also hate that it took that dramatic of an event to make us slow down. Family fun nights can be cheap (or free), easy, and take little to no planning. All you need is a family and parents that are not distracted by cell phones, IPADS, etc. Hopefully the Nelsons will be better at keeping it simple and slowing down a little for our family.

Anyone with me?

Corn Maize

2011-09-29T18:57:00.001-07:00

Tonight our little family went the corn maize. We had been planning all week to go, but when it came time, both Cody and I were exhausted and it was really windy since a front was blowing in. We came very close to not going but forced ourselves at the last minute. MAN, I am SO glad we did! Other than a small private birthday party, we had the entire place to ourselves. The kids ran wild and loved seeing everything. Cody and I ate it up! The corn was beautiful. The stalks were tall and not pushed over by all the people that end up come through. They had the kids maze, the large corn maze, the cow train, and the animals all to themselves!

I am the luckiest girl in the world to be going home with these three!

Carley called herself "Question Girl" and loved being the reader.

Corey took turns between running and being grabbed by one of us. He wanted to be the leader so bad, but kept going the wrong way then getting mad when we didn't follow. You can see the look on his face when he was carried instead of walking. Me and my little pumpkins

The cow train all to themselves!

Tech Game

2011-09-29T18:42:00.001-07:00

Saturday we went to the Tech game. It was our first game to take Corey to. Both kids enjoyed it. We had cheap seats so they couldn't see the screen, but the liked watching the game. I am not sure we will take them to anymore this year, because they were done after the first half, but it was a great memory. The kids were so cute. Here are some of my favorite parts:

1. Carley loves to make up good luck songs for people. In her mind she walks around in a Disney movie. She kept singing this good-luck song to Tech that had all the people around us laughing.

2. Carley also thought that the entire game depended on her cheering. If they started loosing, she would say, "I have GOT to cheer louder. My team needs me!".

3. Cody drew the kids tattoos on their arms that the kids loved. One college girl asked where we got the stickers and Carley proudly told her that her Daddy drew them!

4. Corey was wild through the game (of course) and would walk up to other people and say "Hi! GO RAIDERS!". It was so loud and cute.

5. I just love being with my little family. God has been so good to us!

Fall TV

2011-09-26T07:48:00.000-07:00

So Fall TV is back on and here is what I am watching:

Cake Boss - I know it is random, but I love this show. I have 0% creativity in my body so I love what they do and make!

Charlie's Angels - This show premiered last week and it started off WEAK! Like awful, but it picked up by the end of the episode. I will probably watch a few more episodes and see what I think.

Parenthood - I really do like this show. It has sweet moments and I find myself rooting for each family.

Modern Family - BEST ON TV! Hilarious and witty. I laugh each time. So funny.

Grey's Anatomy - I did not like the premier at all. I love this series, but I do not like most of the storylines right now. If it doesn't improve, I might stop watching. It is just too shady.

The Office - It was funny last week, not hilarious, but funny. I miss Michael Scott.

private Practice- It will begin again this week. I want it to be good. Last season was okay so maybe this one will be good. If not, I will probably quit watching it.

Most Elligible Dallas - I do not watch it faithfully, but I do watch is some. There is a girl from ACU on there so I watch a little.

Dirty Soap - It is my new guilty pleasure. It is a reality show about soap stars and thier real lives. It is funny to see who they like and who they don't.

The Soup - Starts my Friday night off laughing. Funny each time.

What are you watching? What shows am I missing?

Man Panties

2011-09-11T19:42:00.001-07:00

Corey has been staying dry most of the time lately so I decided Saturday was a good day to give him some clearance Yo-Gabba-Gabba underwear I bought at Walmart. :) Cody jokingly called them "Man Panties" when Corey walked out in them. After that we tried to call them underwear, drawers, and anything else, but Corey liked man panties. It was pretty cute to hear him call them that. Corey did pretty good staying dry, but they got wet several times too. Cody thinks that underwear for the first time and a brand new trampoline is not a good combination, so he was back in diapers by lunch. :) However, Corey did wear a pull-up for the first time today and stayed dry until dinner. You have to admit this hiney is pretty cute in man-panties.

Corey's Elmo Party

2011-09-11T19:08:00.000-07:00

Corey had quite the big day of turning 2! First of all, he was sporting a self inflicted black eye that I have no idea where it came from. Since he had a black eye in his last set of professional pics, I had to postpone his 2 year old photos. That mess!Cody and I gave him a trampoline for his bday and he loves it. He was surprised to see it when he came home from school. Then he gave me attitude when I tried to take him off of it to go put on his super cute Elmo shirt with a 2 and his name on it.We had his party at the church. It was a good party, cute Elmo decorations, good food that Corey likes, and a super cute cupcake/cake combo. We ate, opened presents, and played outside. My favorite part was when he chased his daddy around the room covered in blue icing. Carley was a great big sister and really wanted Corey to have a special day.

We were so lucky the Spanns, Cores, Bowmans, Bullards, Mayos, and Kings were able to join us. Corey is 2 days older than Rendon and they have been friends since the hospital. They love each other a ton.
Jennifer, Leslie, and Amy have been my friends since college. Basically I have them brainwashed now and they don't think they have a choice to be my friends or not. (P.S. - They don't)

I love pictures of people with their elmo hats. Especially bald Papa pictures. :)

Happy 2nd Birthday, baby boy!

2011-09-11T18:47:00.000-07:00

COREY WAYNE- How on earth are you 2? I am even two days late in writing this because I am just in denial about it!

Here is a little bit about Corey at 2. You always do things before I am ready for you to do it. You are independent and strong minded. You gave up your high chair, your paci, and your frog stuffed animal and you started potty training, trying to give up your sippy cup, and not letting me carry you around WAY before it was time. You love to pray, you love to talk on the phone, see friends, go in the car, rock, and RUN. Your favorite shows are the Wiggles, Barney, Mickey Mouse, Signing Time, and Curious George. You like any ball and car you can find. You turn everything into a drum stick. You have m0re bruises than any child I know, and you are the happiest kid I know. You spell your name, count to ten, know your shapes and colors, and are the most verbal boy I have ever met. I am so surprised since you have had two sets of tubes, but that is just how you are. You don't sit still for a minute, but you still manage to take things in. You also love your family. Several times a day you ask for Mommy, Daddy, Carley, Ali, Nana, Papa, Lolo, Cami, and Addison. You also love all of the Spanns and love to go play with them and ask to see Grammy especially.

Corey, you are teaching me so much about God's timing and letting go. Nothing about you came in the time I planned and nothing you do comes at the time I want it to. We prayed for you and loved you long before you were ever growing inside of me and now that you are here, you are full of surprises and moving time lines on your own. You are a joy. I pray that your zest for life and all things in it continues to carry into a zest for knowing God. Corey, God loves you so very much. He has big plans for you. You have already changed our lives and I know you will change many more.

F. You

2011-09-05T05:58:00.000-07:00

Dinner conversation Friday night:

Me: "Carley, how was your sandwich?"
Carley: "F. You"
Cody and I drop our jaws in shock.
Me: "What did you say?"
Carley: "F. You. You know, fumbs up! It was really good".
Cody and I start laughing hysterically.
Me: "Carley, Thumbs actually has a th sound and not an f sound".
Cody: "It is T-H-U-M-B-S up, not F-U-M-B-S up".
Carley: "I just want to eat dinner, not getting a spelling lesson"

Let's hope that is the only time that my daughter ever says "F. You" to me!

Labor free Day!

2011-09-05T05:53:00.000-07:00

My sweet friend Tiffany and I spent the weekend together. We had the best weekend being lazy. I am not joking. We had a hotel in Lubbock over Saturday night. On Saturday during the day we took a 2 hour nap. Saturday night we were in our hotel beds by 10:00 and watched a movie on TV. We literally did not get out of bed until 10:00 the next day and that was just to grab our poptarts and chocolate milk and get back in bed. We shopped, walked around, ate, talked and were just lazy. It was a great weekend. Thanks to my sweet hubby for letting me get a way and get rejuvenated!

Paci-free!

2011-09-05T05:43:00.001-07:00

Once again, Corey found a way to grow up too soon! When he had that awful throat infection, he couldn't drink from a sippy cup or suck on his paci because his throat hurt too bad to swallow. So when he got better, he would carry his paci around a lot, but not suck on it because he had broken the habit. So last Wednesday Cody and I decided to do bedtime with no pacis. Here is the worst part, Corey could not have cared any less. He went to bed easy and slept great. I guess he weaned himself.

Since then he hasn't asked for it, but for a handful of times and he hasn't cried for it at all. He has been harder to put to sleep just because he was used to soothing himself more with his paci. This kid keeps getting bigger and growing before my eyes. In my eyes, this is what I still see. :)

Piece of Cake

2011-08-31T09:10:00.001-07:00

This little guy is feeling better and we are so glad. He is 100% boy, 100% cute, and a 100% answer to prayers. :)

Running on Empty

2011-08-29T12:48:00.001-07:00

That is how I felt on Saturday. We spend so much time blogging about how "perfect" and hilarious life is, but sometimes I just feel like I am running on empty. Carley had a great first week of school. That has been nice not to worry about her and know she is happy and learning. The hardest part I am having is getting her there in the morning. Unlike most of my friends who are having a hard time getting out the door so early, I am having a hard time getting out the door so late! It is so hard to get there and then get to work. Cody has been a huge help, but man, it has been tough!

Then little Corey got a nasty virus on his throat. It is very similar to strep, but it is viral and not bacterial. He missed Thursday and Friday of school. He has felt awful! It hurts to swallow so he has not had his paci, drank enough, or eaten enough. Therefore he has not slept. OH the nights are awful. Poor guy. Cody and I are exhausted being up literally all night with him.

I am teaching at LCU again on Monday nights and I am loving it. It makes for a busy Monday, but I am glad I am doing it.

Then there are the various other things our family does, church, dance, extra shifts, commitees, committees, committees. :) I just feel spread thin and mostly just due to the missing sleep.

BUT today is a new day. We have a new week. Corey is feeling better. Carley is a pro at Kindergarten. I get to see a great friend this upcoming weekend. Cody is getting his things going, and all is well.

Running on empty is not fun, but those are the times prideful people like me remember that I don't have it all together, I need help, I fail often, and running the race is more important than winning!

1st Day of Kindergarten

2011-08-22T19:12:00.000-07:00

And it begins...Public Education! Carley had a great first day of Kindergarten. We dropped Corey off at daycare and then Cody and I took her to Chic-Fil-A for breakfast. She loved the last minute attention. Then we took her to school. It was so odd to me, when I was at breakfast I kept thinking she looked so big and then when I saw her in her seat at school, she looked so small. My big girl is still my little girl. :) No tears this morning on either of our parts. We said good bye and she was fine. Here is Carley's take on her day:
- She loves Kindergarten.
- Mrs. Kauffman is really nice.
- Recess was the best part of the day.
- School has a lot of rules.
- She didn't learn anything new yet.
- There is a boy with chapped lips in her class that bothers her.
- She loves her girl friends in her class.
- She drank all of her Caprisun and lunch so she went through the line and bought some milk. "Buying things in the cafeteria is SO fun. You don't even need money, you just have to know your name". The cafeteria charge account could get expensive for our bottomless pit. :)
- If you get in trouble, your dog on the wall goes in the dog house and we have to call your mom. Then if you get in more trouble you go to the dog pound.

There you have it. The official Kinder low down. I am so thankful my girl is off to a good start. 1 day down, 186 to go!

Meet the Teacher

2011-08-18T19:18:00.000-07:00

Sniff......Meet the teacher for my Kindergartner was tonight. Just kidding. Carley is SO excited and SO ready for Kinder that I just can't wait either. It is hard to see my baby growing up, but it is such an exciting feeling seeing her ready and thrilled for the road ahead. Carley got up at 5:30 this morning ready to go to Meet the Teacher!

Carley's teacher is named Mrs. Kauffman and she seems FABULOUS! We have heard great things so that makes us excited. She was very sweet to Carley and Carley loved her. Carley loved finding her desk and was so excited that her school supplies were waiting for her and included headphones for the computer! WHO HOO! She is also super excited that her cubby buddy is one of her best buds Elise. I am excited that when Carley sticks her things in the wrong backpack it will just be over at Jennifer's! We are also really thankful that our wonderful neighbor, Mrs. Carolyn teaches across the hall and will be able to give my girl any extra love or hugs she needs.

Some great pictures that make me smile

2011-08-15T10:31:00.000-07:00

Because of Pinterest I have seen some great images lately. Here are a few of my favorites:

And finally.....

Back in the Saddle Again

2011-08-14T18:13:00.000-07:00

I started back to work on August 1st. Normally I write this post earlier, but I just couldn't this year. These 2 weeks have been a whirlwind. Lots of Nelson moments and changes have happened during these weeks and I will try to remember most of them.

-My first week at work Cody stayed with both kids on his 4 days off that week and the one day he worked, they stayed with my mom. The kids LOVED 4 days with Daddy and no Mommy. LOVED it. Cody is such a great dad and our kids adore him. The end of the week was sad because Corey got a tummy bug so poor Cody was home with a sick baby and a high energy girl, but he did great.

- Last week Corey went back to our daycare. He has done a great job adjusting. He does cry in the morning at drop off, but it ends quickly. They have been so wonderful with our little guy. He has impressed them all with his verbal skills so they are moving him up a couple of classes where he will be with kids older than him who talk a lot like he does.

- Carley and her dad had 3 days together this week. One day she spent the day running errands with her dad to Home Depot, the fire marshall's office, the bank, and then LFD training while Cody taught a case review. Our little future fire girl loved it. Another day she and her dad had an entire day of dates that ended with them going to the Smurf movie together.

- We have also been blessed my friends who have helped with Carley. She spent Tuesday at her buddy Elise's house and Friday she went to a HS Volleyball tournament with the Hammonds. Friday afternoon she came to my work and enjoyed that a ton. Tomorrow she is spending the day with her buddy Charlie.

- I have had my own set of changes this year. I went from being the Curriculum Technologist at our Middle School after 7 years to being in a new position, Campus Intervention Specialist. I will be the testing coordinator and then do 504, RtI, SSI, and any other benchmark, assessment, data things come along. I am SUPER excited about this and AMAZINGLY humbled and what all I still have to learn. One day at a time though, right??

I have more posts coming this week mostly for my upcoming Kindergardener, but I did want to do a little catch up.

As always, the purpose of this blog is to be printed in a book for my kiddos. So to Carley and Corey, I want you to know the choice your dad and I have made for you to be in a family with 2 working parents is not an easy choice. However, we think it is best for our family. We do not take lightly the schedule it forces on you, the exposure to runny noses, the limited time at home, and all that comes with it. But we do truly believe you thrive in the places we send you and that you are happy and loved there. Good byes are never easy in the morning, but I leave you knowing this is a good plan for our family. Never once question that you are loved to the moon and back by your parents and that you are more important to us than any job. And quite frankly the trip alone in the car to Sonic to get my water on the way to work does some serious destressing and restoring of your mom's soul! I hope it makes me a better mom and our family a happier place. I love you both so much!

CatPack!

2011-08-02T19:17:00.000-07:00

ACU has the best marketing department! Carley's CatPack backpack came in the mail the other day with a cute note from the ACU mascot wishing her luck in beginning school and telling her he hoped she came to visit ACU sometime. She loved it and we love our new church bag. I can't believe she is old enough to get this! Time goes too fast!

More Cousin Fun

2011-08-02T18:50:00.000-07:00

We had a great week with the O'Rears! One day Mom and I took the kids to the Science Spectrum and they were so happy and hilarious! Once again the kids are ALWAYS matching.Another day we got to go to our sweet friend Ann's house and play with her kids in their awesome backyard water slide! Our kids had a blast.Finally the older girls got matching nightgowns with their dolls. They loved it and were so cute playing together.

Cousin Pictures Summer 2011

2011-07-28T18:23:00.000-07:00

We headed to Portrait Innovations to get some cousin pictures made and they turned out pretty cute. One 22 month old boy was very challenging, but other than that it was a lot of fun! I am so thankful for my kiddos and my precious nieces.
Lauren is 7 and will be 8 in September.
Carley is 5 1/2.
Camryn turned 5 in April.
Corey will be 2 in September.
Addison is 7 1/2 months.

You have to look at the picture at the end. Cody made us order it.

This picture really shows what a family photo shoot looks like!

Sprinkles

2011-07-22T07:11:00.000-07:00

This little mess had sprinkles with his icecream. Can you tell? :)

Texas Firefighter Olympics 2011

2011-07-21T19:00:00.001-07:00

Cody competed in the Texas Firefighter Olympics in Round Rock last weekend in Powerlifiting. He has been working out really hard for this and I am so proud of him. He is SO stinking strong. Cody did great. He lifted 1,162.6 lbs on his 3 events (benchpress, deadlift, squats). Way to go, Babe! My husband is a hardworking stud and only a fool would mess with him! :)

I have a feeling....

2011-07-21T18:57:00.001-07:00

...this guy is going to follow in his Daddy's footsteps. :)

Hair Cut

2011-07-21T18:52:00.001-07:00

Carley has been wanting her hair shorter and I have been fighting it. We finally got it cut the other day and it looks great! She loves it and it has hardly any tangles! My thing that makes me sad is she looks TOO grown up! WOW. Where is the time going for my baby girl? She starts Kindergarten in exactly one month.

Thank goodness for Stan and Jan Berenstain

2011-07-21T08:15:00.000-07:00

For probably about a year, Carley has watched the Berenstain Bears on TV and it has been really great. Man, this Summer it has come into a whole new light. Mama, Papa, Sister, and Brother Bear have been helping reinforce some big lessons. The books are easy and cheap to buy. The ones that go on the Nook Kids App on my IPAD are SO cool and they have great voices to go along with it. The biggest hits around our house right now are "Messy Room", "Tell the Truth", " and "Too Much Junk Food". These books really help reinforce some things we are working on with Carley without harping on her about it. If you haven't rediscovered the Berenstain Bears for your family lately, you might check it out.

Richly Blessed, :)

2011-07-11T16:54:00.000-07:00

I have blogged before about the Rich family and how thankful I am for their friendship. Mark and Clay were just 14 year old boys when they came to Leadership Camps at ACU and I was one of their counselors. They are both grown men with beautiful Godly wives and precious sons now. Through them I was blessed to get to know their 2 sisters and parents. They are a wonderful family and I thankful for the blog world and facebook so I can keep up with them still when we have our own families and lives.

Their sweet mother, Karen, sent me outfits for both of my kids when they were born to toddle around in with their names on the back. Corey wore his on the 4th of July and I thought it was perfect. Carley wore hers for her 2nd Easter and I still love this bottom picture so much! Thank you Karen and to the Rich family for blessing me and letting me in your lives.

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-04T19:39:00.000-07:00

Our 4th was a low key this year because Carley couldn't go to the parade because of her tonsils, Corey has a nasty cold, Cody is working, and because of the drought the fireworks in Lubbock were cancelled. So the kids and I spent today home in pjs just being thankful and lazy. We went to my parents for a cookout tonight and Carley helped Papa with the homemade ice cream (how sweet is the picture with his hand on her back!) and Corey got some love from Nana since he didn't feel great. They did look super cute a church yesterday so I had to post that as our patriotic picture!

Bowmans are Back!

2011-07-02T19:02:00.000-07:00

Three Years ago I made this post saying good bye to our friends the Bowmans.

Now they are back! YEAH! I have already loved having these special people back in town. Friday we let the kids play and man were they cute! Hard to believe Carley and Charlie (the Arleys) were 2 1/2 when they left and are about to start Kindergarten! Corey and Sarah Jane weren't even in the works and now they were busy little cuties.

This Prefectly Describes Corey

2011-07-02T19:01:00.000-07:00

Tonsils and Adenoids

2011-07-01T10:37:00.000-07:00

On Thursday 6/23 Carley had her tonsils and adenoids out. She has done really well for the most part. Poor sweet girl has watched every Barbie movie on the planet and eaten every cold fruity food item we could think of. She has been great and we have enjoyed the down time at the house. It has been hard to see her hurt and be sick and I am ready for her to be 100% again!

So many friends have done things to help us pass the time. If you are wondering what was the most helpful for us, it was the gifts of coloring books, crafts, puzzles, and movies. They helped keep her on the couch. We are so blessed to have so many wonderful friends!

VBS -Nazareth

2011-06-24T11:12:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome week in Nazareth this week visiting with Mary, the mother of Jesus, and worshipping God as VBS. Carley loves it so much and I love watching her. Cody headed up security and I helped lead the Celebration time each night at Ashley-phira. She brought her buddy Elise with her again this year and they were really excited when they got in the "pink" tribe of Levi.

Eating Fro Yo with Elise and Rendon

Grandparents and Grandkids

2011-06-24T11:07:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-24T10:57:00.000-07:00

Sunday was Father's Day! What a great opportunity to celebrate 2 of my favorite guys! We had our big lunch at this awesome place in Glen Rose (by Fossil Rim). We gave my sweet Daddy a new shirt. Then the kids gave Cody trays that they made with an imprint of their feet. They were so cute and they both said, "My Daddy, My Hero" I am so proud of the way they turned out. I love Cody Wayne Nelson SO much and I am so thankful that my kids have him as their father.

Seriously, look at the size of the burger!

Fossil Rim

2011-06-23T17:52:00.000-07:00

On Saturday before we came home we stopped at Fossil Rim which is a really fun zoo that you drive through. The kids loved it. We all piled in the truck and I think that made it more fun. It was neat to feed the animals and be so close to them.

Great Wolf Lodge

2011-06-23T17:42:00.000-07:00

While we were in Keller, The O'Rears, Nelsons, and Cores went to Great Wolf for a couple of days. The kids were great and it was super fun. Carley was especially excited to meet Violet the girl wolf and get her picture made with her. Nana was so sweet to get each of the kids a stuffed animal. We all rode several water slides and I had a ton of fun with Alyssa riding a few as well. Nothing like sisters. :) The girls wore matching swim suits one day. I wish I had a picture of them. They were so sweet. Corey hung out in a life jacket the entire time and was hilarious. He spent lots of time with his daddy so I could spend time in the water.

Summer Get-A-Way

2011-06-23T17:32:00.000-07:00

We took a family vacation last week to visit Keller and hang out with Alyssa's family. It was wonderful as always. My nieces keep getting cuter and cuter. We had a great time hanging out, attending Summer Spectacular at Alyssa's church and seeing our friend Korey play Noah, eating at Rainforest Cafe, shopping, and just being together.

Swim Lessons and Feathers

2011-06-11T13:12:00.000-07:00

Carley graduated from Swim Lessons at Seahorse today. She did SO good this year. I am so proud of her. What a difference a year makes! She has been asking me for feathers for her hair so I told her when she graduated swimming lessons without fussing about going once, I would take her to get some. She got 3, (one pink, one purple, and one red) then we celebrated the feathers and the day at the Cakery for a cupcake!

21 months of fun

2011-06-09T19:50:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe this little guy is closer to 2 than 1! He is busy, sweet, smart, fiesty, loving, and into everything. I am so thankful for this little dude blessing our world. Here are some things about Corey.

- He is definitely headed to being left handed like his Daddy.
- He is getting really good with a spoon and prefers to use silverware than his fingers.
- He sings all the time. He loves songs and has really good pitch. Nothing makes him happier than to sing and be sung to.
- He recognizes the letters C and O and loves to shout them if he sees them.
- He knows all his body parts and loves to point to all the parts of people's faces, including strangers.
- He started speaking in sentences about 2 weeks ago. I just can't believe it. He is growing to fast.
- He likes to hold hands and pray at meals. He prefers to pray several times during the meal. Any time someone gets up for a napkin, a refill, or whatever he likes to repray!
- His two favorite phrases are "I don't like that" and "Not Nice!" I believe the terrible twos are on their way!

Corey, to know you is to love you! You have wrapped us all around your sweet little finger and your toothy grin. You are going to make me very happy and very exhausted this summer and I can't wait. I love you, sweet boy.

Sweet Siblings

2011-06-09T19:06:00.000-07:00

Nothing makes me happier than to see my two cuties playing together. One of my biggest fears during infertility was that Carley would never have a sibling or that they would be too far apart to play well. They are definitely not sweet to eachother all the time, but the moments of them playing well are increasing and it does my heart good. Here is Carley reading to Corey and Carley teaching him to play on the computer.

A bedroom fit for a King (size)

2011-06-09T18:18:00.000-07:00

Over the past month we have decided that our Queen bed was not cutting it so we started shopping for a King Bed. We found a bedroom suite we liked at Ashley furniture and it was delivered yesterday. It gave us a great excuse to change the colors of our wall and steam the carpet. We also found bedding we liked. We have not decorated, done curtains, etc, but we do have a much larger and softer bed and an updated look to our bedroom. The picture above is the company picture and the ones below are our room. I couldn't get a great angle of the furniture without it making our room look small which is weird because it makes it look wider. Who knew? Anyway, yay for Cody and me!

Goodbye to Oprah

2011-06-03T08:55:00.000-07:00

After 25 years, Oprah is off the air. Her last epidsode was last week. People either love Oprah or they hate her. "She thinks she is God". "She thinks she is SOMETHING SPECIAL, so prideful, so full of herself." Whether you agree or disagree that is up to you. I really enjoyed her show. She brought thought provoking topics, told stories that needed to be told, and dealt with issues with as much dignity as I believe possible. She asked good, tough questions. For the most part she with held judgement, and she told poignant stories. Of course I applaud her generocity and her love for education. For the past several years, I can't even remember how long, I have recorded her show and watched it after work. I didn't always watch every moment, but I did watch part of every show, and most of the time, I did watch the show in entireity. She gave a voice to many causes that did not have a voice. Just because I did not agree with every cause, doesn't mean that they did not deserve a voice. I will miss her show, her book club choices, and her voice each afternoon. I admire her phenomenal sucesss, her personal story of triumph, and her belief that we can all make a difference. Thank you for your show Oprah. You were one of a kind.

Carley's Dance Recital

2011-05-25T17:50:00.001-07:00

Carley was a Rappin' Tapper this year and she was such a cutie in her costume. She had been really sick for 5 days and I was afraid we would have to pull out, but she got better just in time! She has learned a lot this year from Ms. Rhonda. She has been challenged SO much! We are really proud of our girl.Our dear friend, Ms. Susan came to rehearsal with Nana and me. She brought Carley white daisies and lots of love and encouragement. Susan and I will not be working together next year and it BREAKS MY HEART.The Spann clan made it to her recital. They are such a sweet and supportive family. We are so thankful to belong to them.

Nana and Papa came and were a huge hit. Of course Carley's biggest fan was her little brother, Corey, who yelled, "Sister" and waved all during the dance.

Cody gave Carley pink lillies and she loved them. She had such a great night.

This, That, and the Other

2011-05-25T17:40:00.001-07:00

I am behind on blogging again. We have had a busy few weeks at our house.

1. Corey had his first trip to the ER. We lifted him by his arms and his elbow came out of socket (basically). It is called a nursemaid's elbow. Poor little guy was hurting until we got it fixed. Broke our hearts!

2. We had serious spring cleaning one Saturday at the Nelson home. We threw away and donated a ton. We also took apart our bed and vacuumed underneath it and cleaned it out. We did the base boards, the vents, and our closets. It was EXHAUSTING but very worthwhile.

3. Carley got really sick. She started running a fever after her graduation on Thursday and was sick all weekend. She had a UTI and a virus. Her fever got up to 105.6 on Friday. I almost had a heartattack. Cody came home and we got her in the bath. Poor girl had 102-103 all weekend. Monday it went down. I haven't seen her that sick in a long, long time.

4. Our poor, neglected, sweet dog Ali finally got a new bed on Spring Cleaning day. She has been sleeping on the same pillow for years. It was yucky. We threw out her old bed and got her a new one. It was so funny, as soon as we put it down she walked right in and fell asleep. The kids love her and she is SO good with them. It is just hard to give love and attention to all the Nelsons plus sweet Ali.
5. The end of school for kids and teachers is Friday! 48 hours! YEAH!!!!

Carley's PreSchool Graduation

2011-05-25T17:21:00.000-07:00

Carley's Graduation was Thursday. We are so proud of her. She earned every award they have and had a great year. For their little assembly they said the Lords Prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and The Star Spangled Banner. It was pretty cute! She will miss her friends and her teachers so much!Papa and Nana with the Graduate

Her teacher in the Owl Class, Ms. LauraThe director Mr. Bill and Assistant Director, Ms. Debra
This is Carley's face when she saw her brother. Hilarious.
Getting her diploma from Mr. BillHer best buddy Nadia

Carley Preschool Graduation Pictures

2011-05-13T14:47:00.000-07:00

Time is going too fast! Can't believe I will have a graduate on Thursday. I am so very thankful for my little girl and the young lady she is becoming.

Mother's Day

2011-05-09T17:53:00.001-07:00

* this is my 5th new post in the past 30 minutes! Lots of blogging catch up!*

I had a really wonderful Mother's Day. I am so thankful that God blessed me with Carley and Corey. I longed for our family of 4 for a long time and it is so precious to have my two babies. I never take them for granted. They are such treasures. And of course my mom is amazing! The best Nana ever and the light of my kids life. She is such a rock and so supportive. I am so very thankful for her kind, genuine, loving heart.I am also so very thankful for Oleta Spann who Cody calls mom and who is so very loving towards our family. She is a true angel and her accepting and giving nature is something incredibly aspiring.

Also Alyssa's sweet Mother-In-Law, Mimi(Bettie) was here this weekend and she is always so sweet and kind to our family. Carley asked her to be her honorary Mimi this weekend and Mimi accepted. She is so sweet.

And I got to spend the weekend with my sister who parents with such ease and grace. She never loses her cool or raises her voice with her girls. She is such a great mom and such a special example to me.

Cody spoiled me rotten. I asked for my car to be detailed for Mother's Day and he took care of that for me. It was SO nice to have a clean car. The kids gave me a Willow Tree Jewelry Box and a sweet new Willow Tree figurine entitled "Tenderness". Then Cody SURPRISED me with a beautiful new charm bracelet. He is the most thoughtful husband.

The O'Rears Visit

2011-05-09T17:40:00.001-07:00

Oh my Goodness! What a fun weekend! The O'Rears came to town and it was SO good to be with them. It was a short, fast, and furious weekend, but we definitely got some precious time in with our favorite family.

Addison is 5 months of sweetness. I love that chubby little girl so much! How precious are her little hands and feet! She and Corey "played on the floor" together and after he got over his jealousy of her, he really loved watching her and talking to her. But Corey LOVED Lauren. He called "Oh Oh" (Lolo) ALL weekend and wanted her to carry him everywhere. It was so sweet. Camryn and Carley could not get enough of eachother.

Newest Nightly Ritual

2011-05-09T17:38:00.001-07:00

The kids newest thing to do at night is sit together on the couch in pajamas and watch Curious George. It is so sweet to see them really interact and love each other.

Muffins with Mom

2011-05-09T17:35:00.000-07:00

Friday was Muffins with Mom at school. I loved going and eating with my sweet boy and girl. Carley was hilarious, she kept patting my hand. Corey just thought he was SO big because I brought him to Carley's room to eat so I could eat with both at the same time. He loved sitting at her table. Being a mom is such a joy and a gift.

Serious Fingerpainting

2011-05-09T17:27:00.000-07:00

Carley is really into finger-painting right now which really wears me out. It is just not my thing, but she LOVES it! The artist in our family is obviously my talented husband so Carley asked him to do some "Serious Finger-painting" with her. So they planned their serious fingerprinting night as soon as Corey went to sleep. I thought they looked so cute when they were working.

Here are some pictures Cody whipped out in 2 seconds. The first is just a pretty landscape and the second is the beginning of the Emerald City in Wizard of Oz.

The Sweetest Note

2011-04-25T17:18:00.001-07:00

The other day I came in the kitchen and Carley had written me a note. It was on my grocery list note pad on the bar. Cody was at work and Corey was resting and I was doing laundry and she surprised me all by herself. The note said "MOM I LOVE YOW Mommmm Your teh berry best Mom". My sweet 5 year old girl warms my hears. All day I kept thinking about the note. The simple heartfelt nature of it. I can't believe how big she is getting. When did she learn to write so well? When did she do this on her own? She is SO big and then so little using Strawberry Shortcake's "Berry Best" instead of very and things like that. Oh sweet girl, SLOW DOWN! Mommy wants to treasure every second!

Easter 2011

2011-04-24T18:21:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful day celebrating the Risen King! We had a great day of worship and family! Normally I fix a big Easter lunch, but since I had not been feeling up to par this week, my mom had us over for lunch. The Easter bunny brought Carley a Barbie mermaid and Corey a singing bunny and then left the eggs at Nana and Papa's for us to hunt after church. Carley and I did make colored deviled eggs to eat and they were good! The rest of the afternoon was spent in naps and hanging out with our little family of 4.

Real Hair Cut

2011-04-24T18:15:00.000-07:00

Corey had his first real hair cut at ProCuts with his dad on Saturday. His hair was getting too long and I have always promised myself I would not be that mom that let her boy's hair get shaggy. It is tough when it is your own, because their hair is so soft and sweet. Anyway he got a big hair cut on Saturday. It took 3 suckers to keep him busy, but he did great! My favorite parts were when Carley sang to him during the middle when he got fussy. All of procuts got quiet when she sang "Twinkle, Twinkle".

Afterwards he wanted to sit on daddy while he got a hair cut!

Easter Parties/Egg Hunt

2011-04-24T17:55:00.000-07:00

The kids had Easter parties at school on Thursday. I was not feeling good, so my trusty team of Nana and Cody attended the parties. I HATED missing these fun times, but looks like my kiddos did great in spite of a momma in bed.

Doggie Ears

2011-04-14T14:22:00.000-07:00

Here are Carley and I both at 5 in our favorite hair styles. I wore my hair like this all the time and she has started doing the same. Isn't it funny what we pass onto our kids?

Sesame Street Live

2011-04-09T17:03:00.000-07:00

Cody and I took the kids to see Sesame Street live this morning. It was SO cute. It was 90 minutes worth of Preschool Preciousness. And seriously, those monsters can dance. I was amazed. Corey was a little scared at first but warmed up after awhile. He never cried, he was just stiff and clung to Cody. Carley loved it. I thought she might be too big, but she LOVED it! We had great seats on the floor so several characters came up and gave us High 5s or waved. It was one of those mornings where I just wanted to freeze time and have my kids stay that age forever.

For the life of me, I could not get both kids looking at the camera.
Bert and Ernie warming up the crowd

Corey a little unsure

Curious George

2011-04-05T15:00:00.000-07:00

Cody's favorite stuffed animal growing was a Curious George monkey. It still lives in the back of his closet and he will pull it out every once in awhile and show Carley. The other day at Target, Cody bought Corey one and it has become Corey's new best bud. I made the 2 monkey men and 2 monkey animals take a picture the other day and I thought it was so sweet. I love the boys in my life!

Camryn's Visit

2011-04-04T16:50:00.000-07:00

Last week was a treat for us because my parents brought Camryn to spend a few days alone in Lubbock. Carley did not realize she was coming and she was SO excited and surprised to have her here. One day Camryn and Nana picked Carley up from school and went and played. Another day Camryn came to our house for a play date. These 5 year olds were cute, sweet, and silly together and really precious. What a blessing cousins are!

Easter Pictures and Corey's 18 Month Pictures

2011-04-01T06:28:00.000-07:00

Together Carley Alyssa 5 years Corey Wayne 18 months

Out With the Old and In With the New

2011-03-22T19:20:00.001-07:00

Carley got her first big bike from Santa when she turned 3. She loves to ride it. Lately she has had trouble because her legs have gotten too long for it. So Cody and I knew that she needed to get a bigger one. Well this week there is a great deal on trading in your old bikes for money off your new ones and the same thing for helmets at Toys R Us. So today Cody surprised Carley and took her her sweet little princess bike from Santa and they traded it in for a new Barbie bike. The bike came with hand breaks, a bell, and a mini bike on the handle bar for her doll. She is heaven. Man, she looks so big though. Time sure does fly, doesn't it? I had to post the ones from when she just turned 3 as well. What a difference 2 years and 2 months make! Finally, here is my little man looking SO big too!