Graves Family Blog

Hi! My name is Kaitlin and I am a slacker!

2009-04-11T22:47:00.002-05:00

I realized that I have not posted in the past couple of months. This could be mistaken for the fact that our life has been boring lately, actually, the exact opposite is true! We have had Valentines day, Maggie's birthday (what a terrible mom I am for not posting about her birthday!), a beach trip, Spring Break, T-ball season has started and more recently...

We have found out that we are having another BOY this time around and we are all so excited! Maddox cannot wait to meet his baby brother/partner. Maggie, on the other hand, will have a rude awakening come August, she has no idea that her world is about to be shaken.

I can't believe it is already EASTER and I must say that I am so thankful that Spring is HERE!! We went to church tonight and on the way home Maddox told us ALL ABOUT "the tomb that was rolled away and Jesus wasn't in there anymore!" He was so excited to learn this new revelation! There really is nothing that makes me more proud than when he learns new things about Jesus and when he says "I love you Jesus!" It really does make my heart melt!!

I hope you all have a blessed Easter! Hopefully, I will get our Easter pictures up soon!!

Spring Fever!

2009-01-29T21:40:00.002-06:00

I realize that it is a little early to be getting Spring Fever, but I am sooooooo ready for some warm weather. I am not a Winter person at all, and I have never been a fan of cold, dark, wet, dreary days. I could seriously just hibernate all Winter.

There has not been a lot going on around here. We are just trying to stay warm and away from nasty colds and runny noses. I have been super pregnancy sick for about two weeks now and I am really hoping that goes away soon. Each time I have been pregnant, I forget how sick I get and then it suddenly hits me. I am 10 weeks now and I go to my first Dr. appointment on Monday. I am a little late going to my first appointment, but when I go I like to see a little more than a bean. At this point of my pregnancy our baby already has fingers and toes, small ones, but they are there. It is already an inch long! YEA!! Hopefully we will get a good picture and I will post it on Monday.

REACTIONS!!

2009-01-05T18:11:00.003-06:00

These were their reactions....

When they heard this....

Holiday Happenings....

2008-12-22T18:19:00.001-06:00

Wow, have we done a lot this season! With so much more to do!

A few weeks ago we had breakfast with Santa. The morning we were going to see Santa, Maddox asked me, "Mommy, what do I need to tell Santa I want?" This worked out SO perfect. We had already bought all of his Christmas gifts, so I immediately started taking inventory out loud!! I mentioned to him things I REALLY thought he would like, that were sitting upstairs in the closet ready to be wrapped and placed under the tree!! I mean, that one so worked out in my favor!!! Maggie is not buying into the whole Santa thing. Maddox has informed Santa of things that Maggie wants. He is so worried that Maggie will not get anything, because she will not sit on his lap. What a good big brother!

Mimi, Mommy, Maddox and Maggie

Maddox (on his best behavior in the presence of santa) and Maggie (who may not be getting toys because of the way she is acting, according to Maddox)

Maddox, Ethan and Santa

Cousins!! (Mallory, Adrienne, Ethan, Maddox, Maggie and Jackson)

Some of Maddox's favorite play friends are Hayden and Ella. A few weeks ago they came over to play and decorate Christmas cookies. They had a great time together, as always!

Friday night, we had dinner with the Orton's at Chuckee Cheese. Yay, for a fun night with friends! It was so nice going to a place where the kids can run around and not be made to sit in their seat for dinner. With three little ones we needed to be at a place where "A kid can be a kid!"

I will post pictures soon!! (forgot my camera that night, oops!)

Every year Maddox and I make a Gingerbread House. He LOVES this tradition. Maggie is not quite still enough for this fun craft, hopefully she can join in the fun next year! Maddox always says that we are "on a date" when just the two of us do something fun. So, we decided that while Maggie was napping, we would "go on a date and make a Gingerbread House!" I LOVE going on "DATES" with him. SO FUN!

Maddox and his work of art

2008 Gingerbread House

Saturday night we went to ride the Polar Express with my mom, aunt and cousins. It was so much fun!! The kids loved the bells, riding the train, Christmas carols, hearing the book "The Polar Express" read to them, cookies and milk, ornaments, and seeing Santa (again) was a special treat!

Cousins

ALL ABOARD!!

Kait, Maggie, Adrienne, Jessica and Mallory

Looking out the window for Santa

Sunday, we had Christmas with my Dad's family. We ate a yummy meal and visited with family that we do not get to see enough. There will be pictures posted soon!!

Roll Tide!!

2008-12-06T14:29:00.001-06:00

We Heart Disney World!!

2008-11-26T20:32:00.000-06:00

We have been back from Disney for a week now, but I have been so busy I haven't been able to post about our trip. We had a great time and as always, we hated to leave!! The kids had a blast and it was even more special because their Mimi was there to ride all of the fun rides with them.

Favorite Rides:
Maddox- has been, and seems like will always be "Buzz Lightyear" He cannot get enough of this ride. The lines were fairly short while we were there, so we would ride, get off the ride, and then ride again... times 20. As you may remember from previous post, Matt and I are so competitive that we would try to beat each other on how many points we could get. Therefore, the ride became more about who got the most points than Maddox riding his favorite ride. Pretty sad and selfish, huh???

Maggie- "Winnie the Pooh" was her favorite ride by far. She would wave to each character as we rode by them... and I do mean everyone of them. She would get so mad as we would wait in line and the honey pot in front of us would load and move on. You have never seen a fit pitched like this one. She could not believe that the honey pot would seriously "drive off" without her. All the while, Maddox standing there saying "this ride is for babies!"

Both kiddos- "It's a Small World" was a huge hit for both of them. Has anyone (Ok, I'm talking about adults here) ever been on that ride and not noticed how it NEVER ENDS?? But, it's for the kids! The smile on their faces is so much better than the ride itself.

This time, there was a new "Toy Story" ride at Hollywood Studios. It was a fantastic ride! Can you believe people would wait in line 85 minutes for 1 ride?? Our family does not have the patience for that. We did wait 40 and can I tell you that it was quite possibly the longest 40 min. of my life... but so worth it!

Maddox thought the Monorail was AMAZING!! Definitely a highlight.

Anyway, enough chatting... here are the pictures

And... for all of you bama fans, we were still supporting THE TIDE while on vacation!!

Happy Pumpkin Day!

2008-10-31T21:40:00.004-05:00

Maddox requested that Maggie be Piglet

Cowboy Maddox (AKA Moe, from Veggietales... don't ask!)

Pumpkins

2008-10-22T11:58:00.002-05:00

First, let me say, I am in love with white pumpkins this year!! I think they are so beautiful, maybe not traditional, but I like them!

To begin my story, we (me, Maddox and Maggie) went to the pumpkin patch with my mom, grandparents, aunt & uncle, and my precious little cousin Ethan.
Maddox loves playing with Ethan, he says they are "Best Frems"!!

Maggie wasn't thrilled about sitting on the HAY! I think she is kind of a city girl. (So this is the only picture you will see of her)

While there, we take this exciting hayride to the pumpkin patch and on the way I am thinking, selfishly, about the beautiful white pumpkin that I am going to encourage Maddox to pick. When we arrive I am immediately drawn to the white pumpkins. "Oh Maddox, look at how beautiful these are!! They are so pretty and WHITE!!"

"Well, Mommy, I think I need to look at ALL of the pumpkins first, before I chose one." he says.

Being the Mommy that wants everything on the front porch to look "perfect" I am not overly excited about what he picks up and then says...

"Mommy, this is the one I want. I LOVE IT, IT IS PERFECT!!!"

Seriously??

If your wondering if Maddox's pumpkin made an appearance on our doorstep (well, here you go)....

Please notice the stem. Isn't it pitiful?? When Ethan saw "the chosen one" that Maddox had so carefully selected, he said "Maddox, I don't think that one is going to make it!" I must say that in my mind, I agreed with him.

Bath Time

2008-10-11T21:58:00.003-05:00

We love bath time at our house, but I have a question for all of you Moms (or Dads) with kiddos.

Do you give your kid(s) a bath in the morning, at night, or both??

I have always (since Maddox was born), been a big fan of night time baths. I just think that there is nothing like going to bed clean, relaxed and smelling good. But lately, I have thought morning baths may be better. It would help them start their morning off fresh and clean, and their hair wouldn't look like a rat had been sleeping in it.

So... what do you think?? I have a poll set up on the right side of the page, Please VOTE!!

Pup-Pup Golf

2008-10-04T15:18:00.008-05:00

We are at the beach this week and I just had to tell you this funny story.

We all know, and accept the fact that Matt is an avid golfer, which makes this story even more hilarious!! Being the two competitive people that we are, we made a bet on who would win our fun little match in Pup-Pup (as Maddox calls it).

He of course gave me strokes on the front and back nine to even the game up a bit (we already see his confidence in me!) Our bet was... "whoever loses has to give both kids a bath and put them to bed, AND the winner gets to chose where we eat dinner." I was determined to win, DO OR DIE!!! Too much was at stake here!!

Let me first state that I kept score. I do NOT cheat. I get super upset when I catch "someone" cheating when we have placed a bet. Also, when that "someone" does cheat, I can read it all over his face. Not a very good cheater, which is a good thing!

So, we get the game started. After the first 3 holes we are tied at 10 pts. and I am feeling good about the fact that I will have the night off! OK, I will not completely bore you with all of the details, but lets just say that I hit TWO "holes in one," Maddox hit a hole in one, and the one who plays golf every chance he gets, did not get even ONE hole in one!! So, at the end of the game Matt and I were TIED straight up... 50-50. Can you believe it?? Yes, I realize that is not a good score, but I was just so excited about the fact that I didn't lose!! Actually, I won because of the 8 (yes, 8) stokes he gave me.

I have to admit, I am a sore loser when I bet. Matt, on the other hand, always "pays up" with a smile on his face! What a great husband I have :-)

I got the night off and enjoyed every minute of it!! Nice!!

What a great family night!!

Maggie loved being strolled around the course and being the "ball-holder."

Maddox played a great game, which his score for each hole was whatever number he called out. This picture was him right after his Hole in One!!

My 15 (+3) things that I'm not afraid to admit...

2008-10-02T15:49:00.003-05:00

A couple of my friends, (Stephanie and Jennifer, check out their 15) have done this and I started thinking about it. So here goes...

1. I do not like making decisions. Even simple stuff, like what we are having for dinner.

2. I hate that I love to drink coke, no not diet coke... Regular!

3. I will talk to strangers all day long, but I hate to speak in public. It makes me a nervous wreak.

4. I have a humongous fear of something happening to one of my kids.

5. I have never tasted beer, or smoked a cigarette.

6. I strongly disagree with people who say that your high school and college years are the best years of your life. I am living my best years NOW and hope they only get better.

7. I am scared of the dark, scary movies and haunted houses. Halloween is my least favorite day of the year.

8. The worst year of my life was when I was 18. I always thought it was going to be the best year because my birthday is 8.18.81 ~ I know that is weird.

9. I would love to play (and be good at) tennis. I took tennis in college and loved it!

10. I sometimes feel like I obsess over being organized, but my time management skills could use a lot of work.

11. I love to shop by myself.

12. I am a great starter, but not so good at finishing. I hope I do not pass this on to my kids.

13. I do not like it when people brag. I think it is a sign of insecurity.

14. I wish we still lived in our first home, but since that is not the case... I hope we never move again. I want my grandkids to play in the backyard where their parents grew up.

15. Matt is the only guy I have ever kissed.

16. I am a peacemaker. I feel nervous when I sense strife.

17. I am not a pet person. I have never gotten along with the pets I've had.

18. I felt the need to do 18 things instead of 15, because I like that number better.

Take me out to the ball game...

2008-09-29T12:20:00.004-05:00

Since we first found out that we were having a boy, almost 5 years ago, Matt has been looking forward to the day that his son would play t-ball. We have kept our fingers crossed that he would pick up a ball and love it! This past year when it came time to sign up for fall ball we knew he was old enough to play, but he would for sure be the youngest on his team, since he had just turned four. We asked him if he wanted to play t-ball and he said "Sure!" We signed him up and he has had games and practices for the past 3 weeks. He enjoys it as long as there is action, when he is in the outfield he would rather sit in the grass. It is just too cute seeing all of these little boys play ball. They look like little puppies out there chasing the ball. Where ever the ball is hit, they all flock to it, no matter where they are suppose to be playing. We have really enjoyed this season so far. Oh, and I'm thinking about signing up to be "Team Mom" next season... doesn't that sound FUN!!

Gi ~ My little BIG girl!

2008-09-10T14:12:00.003-05:00

When Maggie was born she was 5 lbs. 4 oz. Very small, but she has been playing catch up ever since. Now, she is 18 mos. and we go for her 18 mo. check up tomorrow. I am hoping that she is on the growth chart, but if the past is any indication, then I am assuming that she won't be. She is a great sleeper (like her mom) and she has the sweetest attitude about things (also, like her mom!) :-) She sat up for the first time when she was 8 mos and started crawling when she was 10 mos. She has been walking for almost a month now and doing very well. Maggie has been seeing a physical, speech, and occupational therapist since January. We are so proud of the progress she has made since then. Her therapist are so so so sweet and we love to see them twice a month. They show us things I would have never thought of that has/will help(ed) Maggie progress and build strength. We are so thankful for our sweet therapist. The past two months they have all been encouraging us to take Maggie to a MDO or some kind of structured place where she can be around other kids and learn from them. This is also a good way to help her get comfortable around other people, and not so clingy to me. So, today was a new first for us. It was Gi's first day to MDO, and she did great! She stayed the whole 4 hours and I only called to check on her once! When I went to pick her up, she was sitting in the teacher's lap listening to her read a book. All of the other kids were on the floor around them. Of course, it made me feel good that she was being held and loved on. I have had people ask me if I am worried about her development and the answer is NO! I didn't think I would have to carry her into kindergarten or teach her sign language to communicate with her the rest of her life (although, she does know a few signs). Anyway, if I did have to do these things, I would, because that is the way God made her and we love her NO MATTER WHAT! And if you are wondering where "Gi" came from, she has been pointing at herself and saying "Gi" so she knows her name, Yay!!!
"Yes, you are Gi and we love you so much!! Thank you God, for our sweet Gi!"

Maggie leaving for school!

Maggie after school. She looked like this before we got out of the parking lot.

Whew, what a month!!

2008-09-08T22:46:00.005-05:00

August (until now) has been such a crazy, weird, scary, fun, and exciting month! I'm not so sure that my body, mind and spirit are up for that many emotions, but I made it through the month and that is what counts.

Recap of the Month:

Mom finds out she has Breast Cancer (early August)
Maggie FINALLY learned to walk (August 12th) YAY!!!
Maddox can now write his name and recognize it - like a pro! (early August)
My Birthday (August 18) my sweet husband took me to Ross Bridge for the night. It was a much needed "get-a-way"
Maggie's first ear infection (August 18th) Bummer
First Alabama game of the season ROLL TIDE! (August 30)
Matt went to the game and Maddox got sick with "something" and was running a temp of 102.4 for about 24 hrs.
Maddox started school (Sept 3)
Maddox started t-ball (Sept 4)
Mom had a lumpectomy and the cancer is gone, but she still has to have radiation. (Sept 4)
Another family zoo trip (Sept 7)
Maggie turned 18 months (Sept 8) Happy half Birthday baby girl!
We have been counting down until our next Disney trip. "T minus 52 days and counting!"

Maddox is loving school this year. He is having the most fun and is learning all kinds of new things. He LOVES his teachers Mrs. Jenny and Mrs. Lynn (Mrs. Lemon, as he called her the first day). He has his first t-ball game this Sunday, Sept 14th. I will be sure to post pictures about that soon! We are so excited about being a ball park family this fall ball season. This is one of the big things that Matt has been waiting for, since the day we found out that Maddox was a BOY!

Maggie is keeping me so busy. She thinks that her big brother is the greatest thing ever and she MUST do WHATEVER he is doing. We are so super proud of Maggie for learning to walk. When she decided it was time, she took off! She had not hardly taken a step and on August 12th she took 6 steps in a row. Matt and I were so excited!! She has been improving ever since. We have found out that she is a very determined little girl. She doesn't crawl at all anymore, and she may fall 10 times in getting where she is going, but she is going to get right back up and try again.

Maggie walking!!

Not bad for a 4 year old!

Maddox's first day of school. This is his FROG lunch box, because he is in the FROG class at school.

Example of Maggie doing everything her Big Brother does.

Maddox being a great big brother! He loves his little sister (unless she is crying!)

Mom, me and Patti (mother-in-law) at sip'n'strokes. We had so much fun!!!

Please stay little forever!!

2008-08-01T20:33:00.003-05:00

There is not a day that goes by that I do not tell my kids, "Please stay little forever." I love their innocence and that they are so dependent on me. There are definitely times I get stressed, but for the most part, I LOVE IT!

I know that this may be a little far fetched, but lately I have been thinking about what my kids will want to be when they grow up. Here are my thoughts for today while we were playing...

Maddox says he wants to be a pet doctor. He is such an animal lover, and for his birthday his Uncle B gave him a Dr. kit. So as of today, at the young age of 4, I am guessing a VET!!

"Open up. I'm going to put this stick in your mouth."

Listening to the lambs heartbeat

He didn't quite get this part, but he remembered being scared of it at the Dr.

"I see a bunny hopping in that ear." Just what Dr. Smith would say to him.

"This shot should make you feel better."

Diagnosis: A broken tail!!

What a great little Dr. he is!! Treating his patient with such good care, just like any good Dr. should :-)

Maggie, obviously can't tell me her life dream at the moment, but as for guessing, today I would have to say she wants to be a Mommy. She loves to give her sweet babies a kiss and push them around in the stroller. I have noticed a time or two them getting a spanking from her. She has gotten a swat at the hand a few times, but never a spanking (I'm guessing she has witnessed the MANY that her brother has received!)

Silly girls

Checking on baby Olivia

Wow, they are getting some yards on that stroller! Just like her mommy, always on the go!

And... away they go!

What a sweet little Mommy!!

Pictures, Pictures, Pictures!!

2008-07-22T22:03:00.004-05:00

So, out of the 213 pictures we took during the birthday weekend, here are a few... OK maybe more than a few, but how do you pick just a few out of 213?? Also, I just have to tell my friend Stephanie Drew thank you so much for taking so many great pictures at the birthday party. You are so sweet :-)

Making cupcakes the night before my big boy turned 4!!

Yes, he did the sprinkles all by himself
Yes, they are the most beautiful cupcakes I have EVER seen

Growing up, my mom always made my birthdays special, so I do the same for my kiddos!!!
The morning of their birthday, their seat is decorated and their presents are all wrapped and set out to be opened. The best part... they get a CUPCAKE for breakfast. Maggie has already experienced this tradition.

Usually, I am not a big fan of character birthday parties. I know, I know, it is for the kids, it is not about me! Well, this year Maddox was unwavering on the fact that he wanted a Buzz Lightyear birthday party. I gritted my teeth, smiled, and said "OK, sweetie!" So, I got to plan my first ever CHARACTER PARTY!!

The Buzz Lightyear cake!

Make a wish!

The hats and blow horns were kind of a big deal

sweet baby sister

Friends at the birthday party

Jack

Savannah

Maddox and Ella

Hayden

Avery and her Mommy (Stephanie)

Ethan and his Mommy (Traci)

Davis

Carson

Dads playing air hockey... Who's party is it anyway??

4 years ago today...

2008-07-20T22:15:00.002-05:00

we were blessed with this amazing gift. Our lives have never been the same since, for that we are so thankful!!

After tomorrow we will have had a 3 day celebration of Maddox. We started out on Friday night, Matt and I took Maddox to Kobe (Japanese restaurant) and ate a delicious meal. Maggie spent the night with Pop and Nana so that we could focus on the birthday boy. This was the first time Maddox had ever been out to eat where they cook the food right in front of you, he thought that was amazing!! Today, we had lunch with Big at Superior Grill. Maddox loves eating there also, because he thinks they have the best steak. Later this afternoon Maddox had a birthday party at Recreation Station. He was able to play with all of his fun friends that he sees and has playdates with often. What fun to have all of your best friends in the same room!! Tomorrow we are going to end the festivities with another party tomorrow night with our family. Maddox shares a birthday with his cousin Stephanie and Pop's birthday is the day after theirs. Three birthdays all together. So we are going to celebrate them all tomorrow!

I will post pictures soon!!

Weekend in Atlanta

2008-07-18T11:13:00.002-05:00

A couple of weeks ago we took a mini-vacation to Atlanta. I am a little late posting, but late is the story of my life. We took Maddox (and Maggie, but she didn't care) to his first Braves game. He was a little scared and overwhelmed at first, but he quickly started to like it! The next day we went to the Georgia Aquarium. It was so much fun. It was definitely a highlight for both of the kids. Maddox thought it was the coolest thing ever to be that close to a shark, and Maggie liked the penguins the best. The next day we took a tour at the World of Coca-Cola. That was very interesting and we all loved trying the different flavors from around the world. Very fun trip and it was nice being sort of close to home.

Braves Game

Georgia Aquarium

World of Coca-Cola

I won, I won!!

2008-07-12T17:40:00.002-05:00

About a week ago, I ran across a very creative blog called Magnolias and Sunshine . She was having a drawing for this adorable pincushion. Since I became interested in sewing, I have hated looking at that ugly red tomato with the strawberry hanging from it (you know what I am talking about). It doesn't match my sewing room AT ALL, and I have tried to think of ways to cover it, but I never could "invent" something in my mind. So I thought, "Why not sign up??" So...today I checked my e-mail and had a sweet message saying that I WON!! I was so excited, I do not win things, EVER! I am now (about to be) the proud owner of a PRISSY PINCUSHION (that matches my sewing room)!! Thank you, Holly, for making my day!!

Happy 4th of July!!

2008-07-04T23:04:00.001-05:00

Radio Flyer Parade

Bad Hair Day!!

2008-07-01T21:27:00.001-05:00

After a few hours in pigtails, what do you expect??

Grayton Beach

2008-06-22T22:04:00.003-05:00

On Saturday, we returned from a fun beach trip with Matt's family. We stayed in Grayton Beach which is very different than anywhere else we have ever stayed. The house we stayed in was called the "Lollygag" and that is exactly what we did! It was beautiful, breezy and oh so CALM!! I must tell you that we barely left the house we were staying in. Every meal (except for 2 Breakfasts) we cooked, cleaned up and then relaxed. There was NO getting all worked up, getting us and the kids ready to go fight crowds at a restaurant. Did I mention that there were 12 of us all staying in the same house?? Yet, it was still calm (most of the time). I did develop a slight addiction to the Wii bowling game (have you ever played?? You must try it!!) Ping Pong, Old Maid, and 31 were among a list of other games we played, and I got to catch up on my favorite show, Grey's Anatomy. Oh, and the porch swings, they were beds, there were 3. I contemplated loading one in the car and bringing it back home. What a wonderful trip with wonderful memories.

Now... it is back to life (which I am completely OK with).

My 2 babies... who I adore!!

Pop and Maddox

Nana, DaDa and Maggie

Stephanie and Maddox

Our few moments on the beach... ALONE!!

My sweet baby girl

My handsome big boy

Our Family (Matchy, Matchy!!)

DaDa and his Maggierella

Last, but not least, we had to visit The Track!!

Matt and Uncle Brock

Pop and Maddox

Maddox and Maggie on the swings! They both loved it :-)

To the Beach ~ with Big!!

2008-05-24T14:00:00.000-05:00

A whole week ago we were on our way home from a fun beach trip with Big. I am just a little late posting about it. Maddox was OK with the sand, but he did not LOVE it. He would much rather be sitting on the steps at the pool. Maggie was not crazy about the beach, but I did get a few pictures where she wasn't crying, so it appears that she likes it. She is definitely not a Beach Baby, yet. Hopefully, that will change. Maddox's main reason for going to the beach is so that he can ride go-carts. He loves "The Track" and that is all he wants to talk about.

We had so much fun, Big! Thank you for such a great trip. We can't wait until next year!

Happy Birthday to my Wonderful Husband!

2008-05-18T21:06:00.003-05:00

I just have to tell you that the father of my 2 children is the most wonderful husband/father in the world. He treats me like a queen and is so good to me even when I do not deserve it. His strengths are my weaknesses. He puts his family before anything else, always encouraging us and planning fun things for us to do as a family. He was born 29 years ago and I must say that his parents did quite an amazing job raising him. I am so thankful for this man and I'm so happy that HE is the one I am going to grow old with!

Happy Birthday, Babe! I LOVE YOU!!

A Time for EVERYTHING!!

2008-05-03T17:14:00.003-05:00

I am so amazed when I look at this world and think of how God has everything under control. There are so many things going on around us and He knows and cares about it all (good and bad). He even has the hairs on our head numbered, isn't that so cool that he cares about that?? Anyway, the reason I am writing about all of this is because I know one family celebrating a birthday of their 2 year old son (Happy Birthday Jack!) and another family who is grieving the loss of a precious family member. Dr. Perry went HOME to be with Jesus this morning. I cannot fathom the pain that his sweet family is feeling. The only thing I can think right now is that there is truly "A Time for Everything". Please lift this family up and ask for a peace that passes all understanding.

A Time for Everything

1 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under heaven:
2 a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,

3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,

4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,

5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain,

6 a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,

7 a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,

8 a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.

9 What does the worker gain from his toil? 10 I have seen the burden God has laid on men. 11 He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. 12 I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live. 13 That everyone may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all his toil—this is the gift of God. 14 I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that men will revere him.

Nowhere, Yeahwhere... November, Yeahvember

2008-04-20T14:52:00.006-05:00

Maddox has this new (well, kinda new) thing that he has started saying. If there is a word that begins with "No" it also must begin with "Yeah". Which, I think, is pretty clever. The other morning we were in the kitchen eating breakfast and he said " Mommy, are we going nowhere or yeahwhere today??" I was impressed that his little mind could come up with that, since I had never thought about it that way. Also, we have been talking about the months of the year and when I say "October, November" he informs me that "Mommy, it is not November, it is YEAHvember."

I am so loving this age of figuring things out and making since of it all. I am often surprised by what comes out of his mouth, some things I am proud of, and some I definitely am not. I am so sure that my Father (in Heaven) says the same about me and what comes out of my mouth. As a parent, I am so often reminded of the patience that Christ has with me.

"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer."
Psalm 19:14

Maggie and Savannah

2008-04-15T18:10:00.003-05:00

Last Saturday, Maggie and Savannah got to play together for a little while. They were so cute together. I happen to have my camera with me so I snapped a few pictures. We had so much fun and can't wait to play again soon!

Childlike Faith

2008-04-10T19:11:00.007-05:00

As a parent there are many things to think and pray about concerning our Children. I pray for my kiddos a lot, about everything, but to me the MOST IMPORTANT thing that I talk to God about (aside from my personal relationship with Him) is their relationship with Him (hopefully, at an early age). We pray, talk about Jesus, sing and praise Him a lot here at our house. Yesterday, I think that Maddox's curiosity got the best of him. My mom had the WONDERFUL privilege of answering a few questions that Maddox had. She picked him up from school and when they got in the car this is what was on his mind:

Maddox: "Mimi, where does Jesus live?"

Mimi: "He can live in your heart, if you ask him"

Maddox: "Does Jesus talk?"

Mimi: "Well, He talks through His word, the Bible."

Maddox: "Where is Heaven?"

Mimi: "It is up in the sky." (she was pointing out of the sunroof and he kept looking up there trying to see it.)

Maddox: "How do you get there [Heaven]?"

Mimi: "If you pray and ask Jesus to come into your heart, and believe He did, then one day you will go to heaven."

(Pause)

Maddox: "My know how you can get there, Mimi, in a HOT AIR BALLOON and that will take you there"

Despite the fact that we have a LONG WAY TO GO, I am so thankful that he is asking these questions. My heart almost leapt out of my chest when my mom was telling me about it. I can't wait to hear more questions and I am praying that when the questions come that God will speak through me so I do not mislead Maddox and Maggie in any way!!

And on the other hand look what Mimi was teaching him last week....

Easter 2008

2008-03-25T22:29:00.003-05:00

Maddox and Maggie Easter Morning

The kids easter baskets

Easter Family Picture

Coloring easter eggs with Big

The Girls on Easter

Reading with Pop

Good Friday

2008-03-21T21:44:00.003-05:00

How comforting it is to know that we can have eternal life because of the incredible sacrifice that has been made for us. Here is a picture of what occurred many years ago, in order for us to be forgiven today. Thank you, Jesus, for the ultimate sacrifice you made, I am forever grateful!!

"For if you confess with your mouth, that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9

Happy 1st Birthday Maggie!!!

2008-03-08T15:03:00.005-06:00

We cannot believe that our sweet Maggie is turning ONE today. This past year has gone by so fast. This morning when Maggie woke up all three of us (Daddy, Mommy, and Maddox) sang Happy Birthday to her. For breakfast she had her own cupcake complete with a candle (a big thanks to big brother for blowing out her candle which she cannot yet do). She was not so thrilled about the cake at first, but then she loved it! She has been such a blessing to our family. We give all thanks and praise to our Heavenly Father for allowing us to raise Maggie, even though she is His! We do not take this job lightly! He tells us "Train Maggie in the way she should go, and when she is old she will not depart from it" Proverbs 22:6

A day at the Zoo (and I do not mean our house!)

2008-02-28T17:27:00.006-06:00

Monday just so happen to be a beautiful day, so we decided to take the kids to the zoo. We met our friends Brendan, Courtney and Jack and we had so much fun! Some of the animals were not out and there were a few areas being renovated, so hopefully,` they are getting ready for Spring! We bought an annual pass, thinking we many go a few times this year. If any of you are going to the zoo this summer and need some company, give us a holla!!

M,K,M&M riding the train. ALL ABOARD!! Choo, Choo!!!

Maggie chillin' by the parrots

Maddox and Jack checkin' out the flamingos. Did you know that flamingos get their color from the shrimp they eat?? Pretty cool, huh??

Maddox, Daddy and the BIG sheep, BBBaaaaaaa

HELLO, LLAMA!!!

Brendan, Courtney and Jack - Our Friends!

ANOTHER Carousel ride for Maggie :-)

Can you believe that there are people that believe we come from these things?? It really offends me!

Bye-Bye!!

2008-02-26T23:37:00.002-06:00

Maggie has a new trick. She has been clapping for a while now, but we have been working on her wave and I think she has got it. We are so proud!!

Walt Disney World

2008-02-24T21:55:00.009-06:00

I am thinking that I should start with the Characters!! Maddox had a blast meeting them. He was so much fun this year. Everything is so real at his age. Maggie was a bit fearful of them. They didn't quite look like us, so she was unsure. Please note that none of these characters talk, so it is very interesting having a conversation with them just nodding.

Dale, Maddox, Maggie and Daddy. This is what I was talking about when I said Maggie was not crazy about the characters. This picture makes me laugh!

Maggie, Maddox and Minnie (she must have thought Minnie was pretty, she didn't cry with her!)

This was our 2nd visit with Minnie ~ I think she was following us around ;-)

Maddox and Goofy (or as Maddox would say "Gooky")

OK, I know that you can barely see Maddox, but he is standing between Lightning and Mater (look real close). I think he felt a bit intimidated, when he walked up there to pose, Lightning beeped his horn and Maddox jumped. It was kind of sad and funny at the same time.

Maddox and Handy Manny. Maddox was so excited to tell Handy Manny that he watched him on the Disney Channel every morning.

Maddox, June and Quincy. This was a big one. He is a huge fan of the Little Einsteins!

OK, maybe that is enough of the Characters. There are many more, but I would hate to redefine OVERKILL!

The Graves Girls
The first day we arrived at Disney World was Nana's Birthday. We ate at a yummy steakhouse to celebrate.
Happy late Birthday, Nana!! We love you so much. There is no better place to celebrate your birthday than Disney. We hope you had a Magical Day!!

The Graves Guys at Nana's Birthday dinner.

Maggie's favorite ride was the carousel. I know it doesn't look like it here, but when the ride started she thought it was hilarious. She laughed so hard on this ride! "We see your belly little lady!"

My sweet girl! We were headed to the pool. She was sporting her "Princess" hat that Pop and Nana gave her.

One of the many rides that was on Maddox's favorites list. NEMO

Maggie loved the fireworks, she clapped every time she heard/saw them. I thought she would have cried, considering how she is so sensitive, but I was wrong! Maddox, on the other hand, kept saying, "That's too LOUD!!"

Maddox and Mommy about to ride Buzz Lightyear. This was Maddox's MOST favorite ride! He is still talking about it and I do not think he is going to stop anytime soon.

Maggie and Mommy on the Winnie the Pooh ride. Maggie liked this ride a lot because we got to bounce like Tigger. Anything that moves in a vertical motion turns over Maggie's giggle box.

Nana and Maggie at Magic Kingdom.

Pop and Maddox at Magic Kingdom.

Uncle Brock dancing with Goofy at the Playhouse Disney Dance Party.

Maddox and Uncle B hanging out at Mickey's house.

Maddox and Daddy, who was not feeling so well after a ride in the teacups!

This is actually only a fraction of the pictures we took, but again, the overkill thing!

Thank you, Pop and Nana, for inviting us on such a fun and memorable trip. We can't wait until next year! Until then, we will relive the memories we made this year!

Ahoy, Matey!

2008-02-23T18:52:00.005-06:00

I know that I haven't posted our Disney World pics yet. Sorry for the delay, I will post soon.

Last night, Maddox spent the night with Big (my dad) and it sounds like they had a blast. They have a tradition of going to Cracker Barrel every time Maddox spends the night, and he ALWAYS gets a toy after his pancake breakfast. This morning when they went he picked out a pirate costume, complete with pirate hat, bandana, patch and telescope (the sword is from Disney World). I thought I would let you see how he makes the most adorable pirate ever! Too bad it is not close to Halloween!

Feels like HOME!

2008-02-11T11:40:00.001-06:00

As most of you know, we are Disney freaks! We love this place, everything about it. Maddox thinks this is our home now. He asked me this morning if I like living here. We all do!! When we check in they say "Welcome Home" and every day they are telling us to "Have a Magical Day," and usually we do. I just wanted you all to know that we haven't dropped off the planet, even though to us it feels that way. We will be back in town on Feb. 14th. We are going to make a quick stop in Sandestin just to break up the drive back home. I will be posting pictures from our trip soon!

About the Circus

2008-01-28T17:30:00.001-06:00

I am NOT a big fan, but the kids loved it and thought that it was wonderful (that was the most important part!) But, I did not like it one bit! I was a nervous wreck the entire time. It wasn't the animals that made me nervous, I was acutally really calm when they were out. It was the CRAZY people on the motorcycles that got inside the "Ball of Death" and were riding around with 6 other motorcycles inside (That is a total of 7 motorcycles in the ball.) One of them makes one wrong move and they are all goners. Then there was the guy that was basically hanging from the lights BY HIS FEET, without anything but a little cushion under him (No, not a net, a CUSHION!) As we were sitting there, I prayed this prayer...

Jesus, unless my children are excited about scooping elephant poop, PLEASE DO NOT LET THEM JOIN THE CIRCUS!! AMEN!!!

Anyway, It was definitely wonderful to be with my family, but my heart goes out the mommy's who have sons and daughters in the circus.

The "Ball of Death"

Meet our new pet "Quish"

2008-01-24T22:35:00.000-06:00

There names are Sally and Lightning. You guessed it... Sally is blue and Lightning is red.

Maddox is so excited about his new "quish." He checks on them about every 5 minutes to make sure they are still there.

And yes, I am already concerned about the day we have to flush them. What are we going to tell him?? As his mommy, that was the first thing I thought about. When something happens to these fish, his little heart is going to break. It already makes me sad to think about it :-(

Little Chef

2008-01-22T22:11:00.001-06:00

Maddox is always wanting to help me in the kitchen. Tonight we made enchiladas. He got to sprinkle the cheese on top. He was SOOO proud!!

"Look at me Mommy, I'm sprinklin' the cheese!"

"Sorry about those, Mommy!"

Let it SNOW, Let it SNOW, Let it SNOW!!

2008-01-19T17:37:00.000-06:00

Just as I was thinking "How embarassing to blog after 2 months of not blogging at all," God gave us an extra fun day of snow and THEN I thought "How could I not blog about this??"
What a fun day we had! Maddox thought that snow was the best thing ever!! This was his first snow that he could remember. I don't think Maggie even noticed it, other than her hands freezing because she wouldn't keep her mittens on.

Sledding with Daddy (Ok, I know that it looks like we didn't have any snow, but a lot of it had already melted.) SAD :-(

Mommy and her snowbabies

Little SNOW BEAR!

His signature look.

Time is precious...

2007-11-17T23:19:00.000-06:00

Matt and I (and Maggie) are leaving for the beach in the morning (Sunday). We are so excited about this time away with each other. We were planning on leaving both kids behind with the grandparents, but Maggie's little trick to tag along worked! She will be coming along with us due to a bad cough and congestion. I know that she would have been fine to stay behind, but I would have felt terrible if she got worse while we were gone. Anyway, we will be back on Tuesday. Not a long trip, just enough for a little break.

I think by now all of you know about my cousin Wesley. Please continue to pray for him. He has progressed way more than the doctors told us that he would, but still everyday is critical. A website has been started for friends and family to keep up with his condition. You can view it at www.caringbridge.org/visit/wesleycooley . We have been praying for a miracle for 2 weeks now. It is amazing to see what God has done in this short time. Thank you so much for your continued thoughts and prayers. God is so good!!

Halloween Pictures (Finally!)

2007-11-15T22:51:00.000-06:00

My computer is finally back up and running. YEA!!

I know that these are now half a month late, but here is a look at our fun halloween night. We were so excited that Jack and Savannah came along to make our night so much more fun!! Maddox is already planning his costume for next year, although I am sure it will change 100+ times. And Yes, he did have 2 costumes that night. He was Lightning McQueen and Buzz Lightyear. He couldn't decided which one he wanted to be, so he was BOTH!! Maggie was a precious pink poodle, Jack was the cutest kangaroo I have ever seen and Savannah was the most adorable little flower!!

Courtney, Shea and I were just "MOMS" for halloween. We all wore brown shirts and jeans and did not even plan it! CRAZY, Huh?? (Of course, none of us were wearing "mom jeans" we are too cool for that!!)

Halloween pics are coming...

2007-11-02T23:41:00.000-05:00

Check back soon. They will be up as soon as my computer is working.

Future PGA Player

2007-10-29T11:29:00.000-05:00

The other day Maddox came in from playing outside and said "Mommy, do you want to come see my golf course?" I thought what is he talking about?? He had been to the golf course a lot with his Daddy and Pop, but they had never played golf in the back yard. I went in the back yard to find that he had set up his clubs and set the ball up on the tee. Of course, Matt was thrilled to hear the good news!!

What a swing!!

Roll Tide Roll!!

2007-10-20T00:33:00.000-05:00

As I have mentioned before, Matt and I were debating about taking Maddox to his first Alabama game in Tuscaloosa. We knew it would be fun, but Maddox had a super big fear of Big Al. We decided to try it out and worst case scenario we would have to leave. We went to the homecoming game which was 2 weeks ago. We had so much fun, but it was a very eventful trip.
It seems as if I cannot go to an Alabama game without passing out. The night before the game Matt and I ate something that seemed to have not been so good (and no, I did not cook it.) Matt was sick the night before the game and it did not hit me until we were standing in the middle of the heat. Here I go, looking like an idiot stumbling around with tunnel vision and if you didn't know me you would have thought I had a few too many. The sweetest lady helped me and got me back on my feet. So, that was REAL FUN!

Maddox had a blast. He loved playing on the Quad before the game and he also LOVED the Bama tattoo and the shaker that Uncle B gave him. He was a bit fearful of Big Al at first. At one point he was watching the band walk by, he was clapping and cheering, he was so into it and then he saw HIM [Big Al], a look of FEAR came across Maddox's face and the grip of death around Matt's neck. By the end of the game he was saying that he and Big Al were "best friends." So I really felt like not only did we have fun, we overcame a fear!

Here are some pictures of the fun day.

One more thing...
Happy Birthday, Mom! I love you and hope that you had the best day today, you deserve it!!

BAD BLOGGER

2007-10-16T23:31:00.001-05:00

I will admit that I am not a very good blogger. Before I started my blog, I read a blog that the girl posted a thought EVERYDAY. I thought, I can do that!! I'm sure it is not that hard to find 5 minutes to sit down and write everyday. Since I have been blogging I have realized that it is not as easy as I once thought. I mean, if you think of what all you could do that would only take a few minutes... I could start a load of clothes, spend time reading my Bible, play with my kids, call my husband, unload the dishwasher, iron clothes, make the bed, sweep the floor, the list is endless!! I've decided that I am not going to stress about updating my blog, I am not going to make it a top priority. When I feel like blogging I will blog. I have much more important things to take care of.

This will explain why my next post is so late being posted.
Thanks for understanding!!!

Our busy life...

2007-09-29T22:39:00.000-05:00

I know you all think that I have totally forgotten about my blog, but I haven't!! A lot has been going on here at the Graves house. Maddox was sick 2 weeks ago, I was sick last week, and Matt has been sick this week. Thankfully, Maggie has not been sick with the stomach bug that has been running rampant through our house. We are praying that she does not get it, because it is brutal! My mother-in-law (Patti) had surgery this past Monday. We are so thankful that everything went well in surgery and she is now on the road to recovery.

Maddox has been in school now for a couple of weeks and last week he decided that he didn't like his class. He told us that the kids were "too big" and he misses Mrs. Anne, his teacher from last year who was sooooo sweet. I miss her myself, so I totally understand how he feels. After thinking that we would take him out since he wasn't enjoying it like he did last year, we thought we would try moving him to another class. He went last Thursday and seemed to enjoy it. I will have an update on how that is going later.

Maggie is now taking baths in the "Big Tub" and she LOVES it. She loves to splash and put her feet under the running water. Maddox of course loves to help bathe her being the wonderful big brother that he is. I know it sounds dangerous, but I keep a close eye on them at all times!! Here is a picture of her first adventure in the BIG TUB!!

A couple of weeks ago Mom, Maddox, Maggie and I went to the beach. Here are a few pictures of us having a great time in Destin.

Mimi and her Grands

Maddox wondering how the ocean could possibly be that BIG!

The sweet girl never stops smiling!

Maddox and Mimi riding "Lighting McQueen"

Last, but not least, I know that Alabama has now lost two games in a row. That puts a HUGE damper on our lives. Matt is an avid fan and I really have put some effort in this year. Although, I think I annoy Matt with my stupid questions (I won't embarrass myself and tell you the questions I have asked.) If you are a BAMA fan, you would be really proud of me and my enthusiasm I have had for the TIDE this year!! Every week my whole family is decked out in Red and White!! It has really been fun. Maddox wears his Bama jersery and hat and Maggie has a couple of cute Bama outfits that her Pop gave her. We have talked about taking Maddox to the game next week for his first Alabama game at Bryant-Denny stadium. The only problem is that he isn't all that crazy about Big AL. I don't know if Maddox would enjoy the game for worrying about Big AL sneaking up on him (he would have nightmares for weeks if that happened.)

I've been tagged...

2007-09-22T00:23:00.000-05:00

How scary is this?? I am suppose to fill in each letter of my name with a word that describes me, so here goes... (I am so wishing that my name was shorter!)

I am...

K ind to others
A lways late (but I'm working on it)
I n love with my husband
T hankful for all the blessings in my life
L oving being a wife and mother
I ndecisive about small things in life
N owhere close to perfect

I am going to tag all of my friends on my fun friend blog. Joy, Jennifer, Danna, Mary Martha, and Shea you have all been tagged. I was tagged by Kari so she has already completed this assignment :-)

Maggie and her best friend

2007-09-14T23:03:00.000-05:00

Maggie has a new favorite! She is crazy about her doll Lily. When she sees Lily she gets so excited and grabs her by the pigtail. It is so cute! Here are a few pictures of Maggie and Lily!

Happy Grandparent's Day!!!

2007-09-09T22:28:00.001-05:00

Maddox and Maggie want to wish their grandparent's a "Happy Grandparent's Day!!" They love each one of their Grands so much. Each one of them are so completely different and hold a special place in each of our hearts. Matt and I want to thank them so much for loving our kids and showing them how special they are. We are so blessed to have each one of them in our lives! We love you, Grands, more than you know!!

There's nothing like a friend!

2007-08-29T00:33:00.000-05:00

I am back from the beach and I had a wonderful time with the girls. It was a much needed trip to get away, relax and think about how much I am so totally in love with my family. Sometimes it takes getting away to fully understand how wonderful life really is.
Here is a picture of Michelle, Rhiannon and I at dinner. We ate at a restaurant called Cafe Tango and it was so yummy!

Since I have last posted, Maggie has gained a new friend. Her name is Mallory Anne Jonas and she was born August 25th. You can see her at www.jonasfamilyjournal.blogspot.com She is so precious and we cannot wait to meet her!

Today, Maddox had his buddy Jack over to play. They had such a great time playing with toys, playing outside, watching Curious George and I think their favorite was eating popcorn and M&M's. Maddox is very much in the "MINE" stage, so I felt like I was constantly reminding him to SHARE!! They had the best time and Maddox can't wait to play again!

For some reason popcorn taste better right off the floor!!

This is Maddox running to get on the tricycle as soon as Jack walks away. We are learning to share :-)

Jack is too cute!

To the BEACH~~with the GIRLS!!!

2007-08-22T20:47:00.000-05:00

I am leaving for the beach in the morning with a couple of girlfriends and I'll be back on Saturday night. Please pray for Matt as he has the kids for 3 days, with the help of grandparents, of course! Who are all wonderful and always willing to help out!! Matt got a couple of extra golf games in this week, so everyone is happy!! Also, pray for me. I am excited about going on the trip, but I am going to miss my family sooooo much!!

One more thing. My dads birthday is Friday and I will not be here to post, so...

Happy Birthday, Daddy!! I Love You!!

How Funny!

2007-08-21T15:25:00.000-05:00

This seems so complicated to explain, but remember me telling you yesterday that I have been working on a blog? Well, it is a good thing that I didn't lie to you about it. It posted the blog date as the day that I started working on it. So to view the blog that I keep talking about, you must scroll down to August 15th. I really am trying to get the hang of this, because I am feeling very BLONDE these days! :-)

Look to the right!!!

2007-08-20T17:55:00.000-05:00

If you have not read the blog below first, this is not going to make since, but...

YEA!!! My first picture to post and you can actually see it. I am so excited! I think I have figured it out, but you will have to wait until tomorrow to see the blog I have been working on for a week. I would feel so obsessed if I posted 3 times in one day. I cannot spend one minute longer on this crazy computer. Bye for now!!

Blogging sadness :-(

2007-08-20T17:23:00.000-05:00

It seems that I am not a very good blogger so far. I have a blog prepared that I have tried to work on 5 times (Yes, 5) this past week. The only thing is that I cannot post the pictures to go along with the blog, and the blog means nothing without the pictures. Obviously, I'm not so good at rotating pictures. If anyone would like to clue me in on how to do this, your help would be very much appreciated!! Please be patient with me as I learn about this "blogging world" and hopefully, soon, I will be a PRO!!

Maddox decides to be a BIG BOY!!!

2007-08-15T01:50:00.000-05:00

For those who haven't heard, Maddox finally decided to be a "Big Boy" and get a real big boy haircut!!! He sat in the pump-up, swivel chair all by himself. I am so excited and so proud!! No one (except his grandparents) has any idea what kind of battle this has been since he was 1 year old. So, after much persuasion (or bribing, which ever you choose to call it) he got so excited about it and decided to take the plunge! Here are a few pictures of the finished product.

Just one more picture that I just had to show you. While I was taking his picture for this blog he made this silly face and I thought it was so hilarious! It totally describes his personallity and how "ALL BOY" he really is! Have a Laugh, compilments of Maddox!

Since it has taken me so long to write this, it is now about time for another haircut!

My new thing...

2007-08-12T20:37:00.000-05:00

Well... I have been inspired by my many friends who blog. I have decided to join the crowd and start a blog for our family. Hopefully, this will keep everyone "in the know" on our little family of four! Enjoy!!