The Woodall's

Bahamas Part 1

2011-06-01T14:22:00.001-04:00

Our family took a cruise out of Charleston last week and went to the Bahamas. We went on the Carnival Fantasy and had a GREAT time! The ship took us to Nassau and Freeport. We had 2 days at sea and 1 day at each port. The girls loved the ship. The food was a bit disappointing but that is my only complaint.

Day 1- Day at Sea

We woke up and had breakfast in the formal dining room. Afterward we went to the back of the ship where the water slides are and played for several hours. Then we went to lunch on the Lido deck. They had a 24 hour soft serve ice cream machine and I LOVED it way too much! We took a nap, woke up and showered. That night was the Captains dinner. We got kind of dressed up....not as formal as others. Then we went to one of the shows in the Lounge. Lola really liked it but Isabelle decided it wasn't for her so Tony took her back to the room.

Day 2- Nassau, Bahamas

Woke up early to get off the boat by 7:30 am. We got up showered and had breakfast on the Lido deck. We walked around the outside of the boat until they allowed us to get off. We took a taxi over to Paradise Island to catch the ferry to the Blue Lagoon. When we got there Lola and I did the Dolphin Encounter. It was fun but someone decided to bail on me! She did get in the water for a picture of the dolphin to kiss her cheek. The dolphin's name was Casique and he was 4 years old. I was truly surprised at how soft he was. I got to dance, kiss and rub him. I also got to feel his teeth! After that we went over to the beach and played in the water. Isabelle like to eat the sand. She was dipping a rock in the sand and eating it off the rock. Don't worry I was watching her...no choking on Mom's watch!! Tony hung out on the beach to get some sun and I played in the water with the girls. Wait, shouldn't that be the opposite? The girls enjoyed the hammock and the pina colada and strawberry daquiri's (virgin) Daddy bought for us. We cleaned off in the outside shower and enjoyed the awesome view of the Bahamas. Beautiful!!! Then we went shopping around the streets of Nassau. I have to admit I wasn't feelin' it. It was dirty, people coming up to you and crazy drivers. My husband went shopping for a bunch of "free" stuff the guy on the boat told him about. He did go to this cool shop called Del Sol and got a bunch of stuff that changes color when it hits the sun. Pretty cool! Lola also got her hair braided...too cute! When we got back to the boat we showered for dinner. Lola decided to skip dinner and go to the spa for a kids mani/pedi. She enjoyed it so much. While Daddy was signing her up for the appointment he also booked me a massage and facial. It was heaven!! I got to go at 8:30 for a 75 minute appointment. I would have preferred the therapist to have left me to sleep on the table but I got back to the room about 10 pm and feel right asleep. Tony had the girls already fast asleep so that was so nice.

Bahamas Part 2

2011-06-01T14:22:00.000-04:00

Day 3- Freeport, Bahamas

We woke up early again but not as early. Went and ate breakfast on the Lido deck. When we got off the boat we met a cute newlywed couple from TN and shared a taxi over to Port Lucaya Market. Much better shopping. We only spent about an hour or two walking around. Tony got a watch that he loves and I got a pair of earrings. We also picked up a couple of tshirts for the girls and 2 dresses and a hat for me. I will say my recommendation for Freeport is to get bathrooms with CHANGING TABLES!!! Do you know how hard it is to change not one but two dirty diapers while standing up in the stalls?? I have to give myself a pat on the back for that one! We decided after that we were done with shopping and decided to head back and enjoy some time on the boat. On the way back we shared a taxi with another cute newlywed couple from Maine. We got back on the boat and ate lunch on the Lido deck and then a storm came up and it poured rain for over an hour. Can we say NAP TIME!!!??? Yay! After we woke up we went and played on the slides at the back of the boat and had some ice cream. That night we showered and went to dinner. Took some pictures with the photographers on the boat and walked around the Promenade Deck. Lola made a new friend, Ava, from Lumberton, NC. Those two hit it off! They wanted to pose for a picture together. Relaxing day!

Bahamas Part 3

2011-06-01T14:21:00.000-04:00

Day 4- Day at Sea

Play, play, and more play! We woke up and had breakfast on the Lido deck. We then went to the back of the boat to once again play on the slides. So much fun! Isabelle was grumpin' bad that morning so she and I went to look at all the photos we had taken with the photographer. We got several and then went to the debarkation meeting...boring! Afterward we found Lola and Daddy chillin' out in the room so we hung out and ate sandwiches courtesy of room service. The girls were acting silly! After we chilled out and napped a while we went back to the slides. Around dinner time everyone started to clear out of the pool and hot tub so we jumped in. The girls loved the hot tub. They also loved dancing around the pool area on the stage. We showered and got dressed for dinner at the buffet. We decided not to eat at the dining room for the last night. The food in the buffet on the Lido deck was just as good. After dinner we wandered into the karaoke bar and Lola decided she wanted to sing. She got up in front of a small crowd and sang Hannah Montana's Best of Both Worlds. So proud of her!!

THAT'S ALL FOLKS!!!

Happy 1st Birthday!

2010-11-06T00:01:00.002-04:00

11 months

2010-10-14T22:23:00.000-04:00

Yep, 11 months! She is such a mess. This picture cracks me up! She was being such a stinker by pushing the sign up from underneath. She thought it was so funny.

Miss Isabelle is quite a crawler. She is also pulling up on the furniture. It won't be long before she starts walking. She loves for you to hold her hands and walk with her.

Isabelle is also talking some. She can say Momma, DaDa, uh oh, dog and I heard her say Lola last Saturday. It was so clear, but she hasn't said it since.

Isabelle has 4 teeth on the bottom and 2 on the top. She has one on the top that is cutting through now. She has a gap between her 2 top teeth...just like me and her great aunt Susie. I bet when her permanent teeth come in there wont be a gap.

She has gotten a bit bigger but I think more height than weight. She is wearing 12 months and for the winter she will be in 18 months clothes. She wears a size 3 shoe and I just bought her a pair of boots from Target and they are so cute on her. They are like baby Uggs.

Isabelle has a very demanding personality. She is constantly wanting to be held or be near you. She has also been crying while I eat my dinner which erks me. Mostly I feed her before I eat and she screams at me the whole time I am eating. Then sometimes if I am eating and feeding her at the same time she screams at me if I take a bite of my food and not give her a bite of hers. Rotten, Rotten, Rotten! She is a sweetie too. She has started to give me open mouth kisses, but they are when she wants to not when you ask for them. Mischievous too...she likes to get into thing she knows she is not suppose too. She wanted my camera the other day and I told her no & moved it to the other side of the end table. She then wanted to get on the floor and went over to the end table & pulled herself up to where she could get the camera. Then gave me that smirk I love!

Isabelle is about to take her first trip to Disney next weekend. Our family loves Halloween and I hope Isabelle loves it too. She is going to be Minnie Mouse.

The spitting up has gotten better. Once we eliminated egg whites from her baby food I have noticed a difference. She is also off formula now and drinking vanilla soy milk. She made the change without any problems.

Well, mommy is tired. Off to bed!

Crimson Tide Babes

2010-10-02T23:21:00.003-04:00

Bath Time

2010-09-16T08:00:00.005-04:00

Isabelle's 1st bath in the sink.

Busy Saturday

2010-09-14T16:26:00.002-04:00

Lola had her 1st soccer game on Saturday and she did great! I was so proud of her. She had a lot of family there to support her and if you know Lola that means everything to her. Unfortunatley Daddy had to work on Saturday so he had to miss the game but we took lots of pictures for him. Lola scored a goal for her team on the first play she went in for (her Nina got it on video and Lola loved watching it). She then assisted her team in quite a few more goals. I think as she gets more practice she is going to be a really great soccer player. She is a hustler and will run fast to try to get the ball. Enjoy the pictures of the Brick House Kitchen Butterflies!

After the game we went and had leftovers for lunch and got ready for Lola's friend Alexis' birthday party. She had a gymnastics party and it was so much fun. Lola absolutely loved it and we may use the same idea for her 5th birthday party. Gymnastics sign up in Nov 5th so I think we may try it out. The party had all kinds of "stations" set up....balance beam, trampoline, rope swing and the big parachute. She said her favorite was the trampoline. Isabelle had a blast at the party too. She was crawling everywhere and on everything she could. You will see in the collage a picture of her on top of several mats. She crawled up on top of them and then gave me a "ta da" smile and I got a picture of it. Growing up!!

Isabelle is 10 months!!!

2010-09-11T16:26:00.000-04:00

Oh wow! 10 months has snuck up on me. In just 2 months my baby girl will be 1 years old. My Isabelle is so gosh darn cute. I love waking up and seeing her smiling face in the morning. She absolutely brightens my day.

Isabelle is now crawling and pulling up on the furniture. She is even started climbing...yowzers. Now that she is mobile she follows me from room to room. It wont be long before she takes her first step.

She is still eating Stage 3 food and is not really ready for the next stage up. I have gotten her some diced carrots and turkey sticks and she does well with those. We had a major choking scare recently with a butter cookie. Lets just say it will be a while before I give her one of those again. We are also being very careful with what she eats now that we are aware of her allergies.

Isabelle weighs just over 20 lbs. She is getting into size 12 months clothes for the fall. We are still in size 4 diapers. Izzy has 3 teeth...2 on the bottom and 1 on the top. The other top tooth should be coming in soon.

She loves bath time and loves playing with all of her Big Sissy's toys. She loves to play with her Baby Tad.

She is still skiddish about other people holding her. Most of the time she wants her mommy...which I absolutely love. She has also started to recognize when I leave her in the morning and it upsets her.

Here are her 10 month old pictures.

Labor Day Fun at Splash Zone

2010-09-09T20:38:00.000-04:00

Me and Mom just coming off the slide. This was my mom's first time on the slide and she only went on it because no one was going under (believe me she was watching them). Well, I guess I was a bit more weight in the front because we wiped out and we wiped out bad. Mom was on top of me under the water.

Lola swimming like a fish!

Mommy and her girls!

Group Picture...we all had so much fun!

Me and Isabelle

Survived the wipeout!

Right after we wiped out! Did I mention my mom can't swim!?

Soccer Baby!!

2010-09-01T21:52:00.000-04:00

Move over Mia Hamm....here comes Lola Woodall. Ha Ha! Seriously though Lola is doing great. She just finished out her first week of soccer practice and loved it. She has met some new little friends and she gets to get out a lot of energy. Her first game is Sept 11 and I am so excited for her. Her daddy took her to practice today and Isabelle & I showed up at the field to watch our girl. Daddy took some pictures with the camera on his phone. Enjoy!

Allergies

2010-08-28T11:16:00.000-04:00

Allergies....ugh is all I have to say about them. We had Isabelle tested last week for allergies because she has eczema really bad and she spits up a lot. We wanted to see if there were certain foods that were bothering her. Well, we found out we have a peanut and egg white allergy. I am really nervous about these two but we will be going to an allergist to find out more information. Right now she is on baby food so we really don't have to worry too much about the peanuts and I just have to make sure I get her baby food without egg whites. So far the only one I found was Gerber Lasagna. Anyways, the real upsetting one was a cat allergy. We just got a kitten at the end of April and we all just absolutely love her. I read online that there are ways to live with the cat and have an allergy but it would involve taking antihistamines, keeping the house really really clean (which if you have been to my house it is a challenge! ha), getting a HEPA filter, allergy shots, etc. While we love our Sophie, it would be too much. We found her a new home. Tony's aunt and her family have adopted Sophie and I hope they grow to love her as much as we do. I am thinking we should start to see a real change in Isabelle's eczema problem and lately she has had a cold but I am thinking now it is cat dander bothering her. I have added a few pictures here of Lil Miss Sophie. She is such a gorgeous kitty. And I would like to add that Lola and I cried after she left us this morning. Lola has already asked to go visit Sophie.

Tony's Graduation

2010-08-26T22:26:00.000-04:00

YIPPPIIIEEE!!! Tony graduated on 8/20 from the SC Criminal Justice Academy for Basic Jail. He had to be in Columbia for 2 1/2 weeks and study study study! He had a total of 4 tests he had to pass. Thank God he passed because if they fail their tests they lose their jobs...yikes! He met a lot of great guys while up there.

Southern Women

2010-08-25T14:53:00.000-04:00

God Love Um . . .

Southern women know their summer weather report:

Humidity

Humidity

Humidity

Southern women know their vacation spots:

The beach

The rivuh

The crick

Southern women know everybody's first name:

Honey

Darlin'

Shugah

Southern women know the movies that speak to their hearts:

Fried Green Tomatoes

Driving Miss Daisy

Steel Magnolias

Gone With The Wind

Southern women know their religions:

Baptist

Methodist

Football

Southern women know their cities dripping with Southern charm:

Chawl'stn

S'vanah

Foat Wuth

N'awlins

Addlanna

Southern women know their elegant gentlemen:

Men in uniform

Men in tuxedos

Rhett Butler

Southern girls know their prime real estate:

The Mall

The Spa

The Beauty Salon

Southern girls know the 3 deadly sins:

Having bad hair and nails

Having bad manners

Cooking bad food

More Suthen-ism's:

Only a Southerner knows the difference between a hissie fit and a conniption fit, and that you don't "HAVE" them, you "PITCH" them.

Only a Southerner knows how many fish, collard greens, turnip greens, peas, beans, etc., make up "a mess."

Only a Southerner can show or point out to you the general direction of "yonder."

Only a Southerner knows exactly how long "directly" is, as in: "Going to town, be back drekly (directly)."

Even Southern babies know that "Gimme some sugar" is not a request for the white, granular, sweet substance that sits in a pretty little bowl in the middle of the table.

All Southerners know exactly when "by and by" is. They might not use the term, but they know the concept well.

Only a Southerner knows instinctively that the best gesture of solace for a neighbor who's got trouble is a plate of hot fried chicken and a big bowl of cold potato salad.

If the neighbor's trouble is a real crisis, they also know to add a large banana puddin'!

Only Southerners grow up knowing the difference between "right near" and "a right far piece." They also know that "just down the road" can be 1 mile or 20.

Only a Southerner both knows and understands the difference between a redneck, a good ol' boy, and po' white trash.

No true Southerner would ever assume that the car with the flashing turn signal is actually going to make a turn.

A Southerner knows that "fixin" can be used as a noun, a verb, or an adverb.

Only Southerners make friends while standing in lines, ... and when we're "in line,"... we talk to everybody!

Put 100 Southerners in a room and half of them will discover they're related, even if only by marriage.

In the South, y'all is singular, all y'all is plural.

Southerners know grits come from corn and how to eat them.

Every Southerner knows tomatoes with eggs, bacon, grits, and coffee are perfectly wonderful; that red eye gravy is also a breakfast food; and that fried green tomatoes are not a breakfast food.

When you hear someone say, "Well, I caught myself lookin'," you know you are in the presence of a genuine
Southerner!

Only true Southerners say "sweet tea" and "sweet milk." Sweet tea indicates the need for sugar and lots of it -- we do not like our tea unsweetened. "Sweet milk" means you don't want buttermilk.

And a true Southerner knows you don't scream obscenities at little old ladies who drive 30 MPH on the freeway. You just say,"Bless her heart"... and go your own way.

To those of you who are still a little embarrassed by your Southerness: Take two tent revivals and a dose of sausage gravy and call me in the morning. Bless your heart!

And to those of you who are still having a hard time understanding all this Southern stuff...bless your hearts, I hear they are fixin' to have classes on Southernness as a second language!

And for those that are not from the South but have lived here for a long time, all y'all need a sign to hang on y'alls front porch that reads "I'm not from the South, but I got here as fast as I could."

Southern women know men may come and go, but friends are fahevah!

Now Shugah, send this to someone who was raised in the South or wish they had been!
If you're a Northern transplant, bless your little heart, fake it.
We know you got here as fast as you could.

Sunrise Park

2010-08-17T22:30:00.000-04:00

With Tony being at the Criminal Justice Academy, the girls and I have been spending a lot of our evenings at a park near our home. We just hop on the golf cart and head on over. There is a small beach overlooking the harbor and they also just built a really nice dock. We have enjoyed watching the sunset, dolphin, container ships and sail boats. Also the Coast Guard helicopter has flown over a few times and the girls really like to see that.

Circus Party

2010-08-14T08:00:00.004-04:00

My cousin, Matthew, hosted a Circus Party at his house. It was so much fun! We had 2 clowns named Tootie and Bozo (my aunt and her boyfriend) and they put on quite a show for us. The children got to watch a parade and performance by the clowns. They also got to play games, win prizes and eat cake. It was a lot of fun. I wanted to bring my nephew, Dalton with us. He was not fond of the clowns. I saw quite a few alligator tears when they were near. He eventually warmed up and had fun. Enjoy the photos and videos below. :)

Fun With Hats

2010-08-12T08:00:00.002-04:00

The other day I was going through some of Isabelle and Lola's baby clothes trying to decide what to do with them. I decided to give some away to my friend Whitney and then the rest to the Florence Crittenton Foundation. Well, while going through the clothes we decided to play dress up with all of the hats. Some didn't fit at all...big head! Ha Ha! I thought they were cute pictures.

Lola's Memory Verses

2010-08-09T08:00:00.003-04:00

For her Daddy's Birthday Lola learned how to say Hail Mary.

**Tony was watching a movie in the living room...sorry the TV was so loud. He has surround sound and feels he has to turn the volume up as loud as it can go. He wants to feel like he is in a movie theatre.

9 months

2010-08-07T22:06:00.001-04:00

My little baby is 9 months now. Wow! A lot has changed in a month. Isabelle has started to crawl and has learned to pull herself up in her crib. Isabelle has cut her 2 bottom teeth. She is also starting to develop quite a personality. She is still her demanding self when it comes to eating. She is eating stage 3 Gerber foods and weighs about 19 lbs. She is in 9-12 month clothes. She loves to play with toys which is opposite of her sister when she was that age. Everything goes in the mouth too! I have to be really careful now because all of Lola's toys have small pieces. We think Isabelle has somewhat of a fear of men. I think it is the deep voice that scares her. Isabelle loves animals...esp Sophie. Sophie will let her pull her ears and never swat or anything at Isabelle. I may have mentioned this at 8 months? Oh well. She is still a mommy's girl and gets upset if I leave her and walk to another room to do something.

Love you Isabelle Claire! Happy 9 months!

Staycation 2010

2010-07-18T18:42:00.000-04:00

What a wonderful time off from work. Not looking forward to going back but....gotta do it! I love spending time with my family. Tony had 4 days off from work this week so he got to join in all the fun!
On Monday, Diny and I took this kids out to Folly Beach to Mary & Timmy's beach house. It was a nice time and we went in the morning so it wasn't too hot. The kids had a great time playing in the water and building sand castles.

Tuesday we just hung around the house. We did venture over to Diny & Gene's to swim in the pool for a while. It was a nice way to end a relaxing afternoon. Lola did get a reading award at the library. She can't read yet but got the award for going to the library every week and for me reading to her at night.

On Wednesday we headed to the Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia. We had a great time. We got to see all kinds of animals. It would figure the 2 animals(elephant & tiger) Lola and I wanted to see weren't out or were hiding. We did enjoy seeing the gorillas, the giraffes, and our favorite the siamang monkey. We did watch a 10 minute 3D movie about the life of a sea turtle. It was cute and got us out of the heat for a little while. The heat wasn't unbearable. We had a descent amount of shade and there are a lot of indoor exhibits. There was a monster snake in one of the exhibits and it was under the water. I should have taken a picture of his eyes b/c they were white and big...freaky!!!

Thursday we ran a few errands. Earlier in the week I cleaned out my closet of some clothes and shoes I don't wear anymore. I read in the newspaper about a local ministry that gives used clothes to the homeless and needy. The ministry is Tricounty Family Ministries and they are always in need.
Friday and Saturday was SPLASH ZONE!!! So much fun. Tony was with us on Friday. We went around 10 am and stayed about 2 hours. On Saturday we met my Aunt Theresa and her beau David. Lola loves spending time with them. My aunts are fun and have always been fun. Theresa did not hesitate when Lola wanted to go down the big slide with her. David was also right behind having a blast. Mostly I swam with Izzy. She is such a momma's girl. I did go down the slide with Lola a few times. I love hearing her laugh when we go down the big water slide. She is such a fun child!

Here are a few videos from the week:

Fourth of July

2010-07-10T08:00:00.002-04:00

We had the best 4th of July. Tony's family from Alabama came to visit. We went out in the boat to Morris Island one day, cooked out, watched fireworks, the kids swam in the pool....a great weekend.

Lake Marion Weekend

2010-07-08T08:00:00.002-04:00

A few weekends ago we took the Woodall Family Trip to the Lake. Last year we went to Lake Marion for the Father's Day weekend and we had such a great time we decided to go back. We had such a wonderful time. This year we rented a house and each family had their own room and bathrooms. The house was right on a cove and it had a dock and private beach. We did have an encounter with a small alligator (about 4-5 ft). It was out swimming or feeding (yikes) and was a good bit away from us but too close for comfort. We were on alligator patrol the remainder of the weekend. The kids had a great time swimming and playing. The guys tried so hard to catch a catfish but bless their hearts they weren't successful. Oh well, maybe next year. Enjoy some of the pics.

I have also included the best video from the trip! I love it!

8 months old

2010-07-06T21:53:00.000-04:00

Am I cute or what?

Miss Isabelle is now 8 months old.

Where has the time gone?

Isabelle is still eating Stage 2. She still loves bananas, peas, and chicken noodle dinner. Isabelle is an extremely demanding eater. If you have been around her at dinner time you will agree. She screams when the food is done.

Isabelle loves to suck her thumb and hold her lovie. If she is ever being fussy all I have to do is hand her lovie to her and she calms down. Amazing!!

She is also a mommy's girl. She always wants me to hold her. She makes me feel so good because when someone else is holding her she looks at me. She loves her momma and I love her.

Over the last month Isabelle has gone to the Splash Zone and loves it. She has also gone on her first boat ride to Morris Island. She had the best time. We bought a tent for her to play in and she loves it. Isabelle has also gone on our first family vacation to Lake Marion. She had a great time playing in the water.

I love my Isabelle Claire!

Lola's 4th Birthday Party

2010-07-05T21:29:00.000-04:00

This years birthday party was mermaid themed. Lola loves mermaids. We tried not to go with the Little Mermaid. We had pizza, cake, snow cones, the jumpcastle, face painting, and several pools for the kids. We also had little goldfish the kids could take home with them. It was a good time. There are a lot of pictures. It is best to click on the collage to see them.

My 100th Post - My Little Mermaid

2010-07-02T16:23:00.000-04:00

Wooo Hooo! 100th post! I am not a huge blogger and it has taken me 3 years to get my 100th post but I made it.

Here are some pictures of my little mermaid, Lola. She had a mermaid themed birthday party (pics to come). These were some pictures I took of my girl for her invitation. Hard to believe she is 4!

7 months...a little late

2010-06-17T15:05:00.000-04:00

Here she is...growing up too fast!

Isabelle is about 18 lbs and loves to eat.

She now has the nickname of "Swiper" because she will steal your stuff

if you aren't careful. We went to the lake a few weekends ago and she tried to

swipe her Poppa's steak off his plate! Ha!

As you can see in the picture we are having an issue with eczema. We have been trying

a product called DermaSmooth and it works but she has flare ups.

We also have her 100% on a soy formula. Also, for all of the moms out there

I am in love with the Target brand formula. It is 1/2 the cost of Enfamil.

Isabelle loves to play with her feet and is always sucking her thumb.

She loves our new kitten, Sophie. Sophie will let her pull her ears and wont

scratch or bite Izzy. She is a good kitten.

I know this is brief but I have to get back to work!! He He!

Half A Year

2010-05-06T17:47:00.000-04:00

Isabelle Claire is 6 months today!!

It is hard to believe my baby girl is half a year old.

Isabelle has been sick and so has Mommy and Lola.

You can't really tell from this picture though...always smiling.

I had to put the 6 month sign on top of the crib railing because someone

couldn't stop grabbing at it.

In the picture with her is "lovie". She goes everywhere with her lovie.

Whenever she is upset all I have to do is give her lovie to her and she starts

sucking her thumb. It is such a soother for her.

Well, since we are all sick we took a trip to the doctor yesterday.

They weighed Isabelle and she was 17 lbs, 1 oz.

I know I have said it before, but Isabelle just loves Lola.

In the car the two of them just laugh. Mainly it is Isabelle laughing at Lola.

All Lola has to do is be her silly self and Isabelle is cracking up.

Izzy is drooling a lot lately. I think we may be seeing some bottom teeth soon.

Isabelle loves to eat!!

If you are eating around her she gets upset because she wants some too.

If you are holding her and eating something she will grab for your food.

She is still in Stage One's but I think she may be ready for a

larger portion size & more variety.

I have to admit I have let her try some of our food.

At my birthday party a few Sunday's ago I let her have some

icing from the cake and vanilla ice cream...she loved them!!

Also, I let her try some lemonade, cheese puffs, & cracker.

She loved all of them so much that when you take it away from her she SCREAMS!

Isabelle can now sit up unsupported.

She can't do it for too long but she is doing really well.

Isabelle is the best sleeper. She has been since she was born.

She has never been one of those babies that keeps both parents up all night.

Last night, she went to bed about 8:30 and woke up this morning at 9:50.

With not feeling well, I guess it is her way of getting better.

Normally she wakes up about 7:15 am.

We love our Isabelle Claire and have been so blessed to have her in our life!

Family Photos

2010-05-05T15:30:00.001-04:00

A few weekends ago we had our family photos taken at Charlestowne Landing. It couldn't have been a more perfect day.We took some really great photos, compliments of KDS Photography. The people in the photos are my parents, my sisters, my hubby and kiddos!

We Love Strawberries

2010-05-04T23:28:00.001-04:00

We went Saturday out to Ambrose Farms to pick strawberries. This is the 2nd year we have done it and it is a lot of fun. I love to pick the biggest, reddest strawberries I can find. Lola was more into it last year than she was this year but she did pick some great looking strawberries. Isabelle was just hanging out enjoying spending time with us. She loves to be held. So much so I went that evening and bought one of those baby slings. I love it so far....hands free and making her a happy girl. Well, enjoy the pics.

Blue Angels

2010-04-18T08:08:00.000-04:00

Yesterday afternoon the Navy's Blue Angels performed above the Charleston Harbor. It was a really great show. They were so loud flying over us. My favorite move was when all 6 went straight up in the air and then came down and separated. I wish I had taken a picture of it! Lola loved it but she watched them practice Friday so she wasn't as amazed as I was. I was worried the noise from the jets would bother Isabelle but it didn't even phase her. Here are some pics of all of us in my neighbors backyard. She is so sweet and lets us come over to fish, watch the 4th of July fireworks or just to swing on her swing. She lives right on the harbor and has a gorgeous view of the city.

Visit to Big PaPa's

2010-04-16T08:30:00.001-04:00

This week my mom & I took the girls to visit my PaPa. Lola calls him Big PaPa and my Dad she calls PaPa. It is always nice to visit and I am ashamed to say I don't visit him as much as I would like. The girls love him and you can see he loves spending time with them. Lola loves to go over and eat his chocolates (he has the biggest sweet tooth). I took a lot of pictures of him and Isabelle because there are only a few from when she was just born. Enjoy!

Not A Happy Girl

2010-04-15T08:30:00.001-04:00

Found these pictures on my camera. Apparently Isabelle was none too happy. She either 1. hated her Jumperoo at the time, 2. didn't want Lola to take her picture or 3. both. My guess is 3!

Sunday Fun Day at the Aquarium

2010-04-12T22:56:00.000-04:00

Sunday, Tony & I thought it would be fun to spend an arm and a leg at the SC Aquarium. It was about $50 for 2 adults and 1 child....wowzers! We did have a good time and the weather was nice. Lola got to see the penguins & the albino alligator (really cool). My favorite was the owls...I love birds of prey. The SC Aquarium has 2 river otters and they were showing off for us. Lola almost broke her nose on the glass of the big ocean tank. She walked right into it and yes she did get a nose bleed. Isabelle stayed awake for a good bit of it. She liked to touch the glass. She wanted to touch the fishies. Izzy ended up falling asleep while Lola got her face painted like a mermaid. This was Tony's first time at the Aquarium and I am not quite sure but I think he enjoyed it. He did say he wasn't coming back & that I can drag my mom or sisters with me next time ;)!

5 Months

2010-04-07T22:30:00.000-04:00

Isabelle Claire you are the sweetest baby girl in the whole world. I am in love with you. You always are smiling and are such a mommy's girl. You love to play in your exersaucer and mommy just got from the attic Lola's old Jumperoo. We tried it out tonight and you liked it but were very tired.

We just started you on baby food this week. Your first food was squash and you have had apples and pears. Everytime you get a spoonfull of food in your mouth you immediately stick your thumb in your mouth. This makes you very messy.

We went and had your well baby check up last Monday and you are doing great. Your weight was 15 lbs 9 oz (75%), height was 26 in (95%), and your head was 17 1/8 in (90-95%). You do have a little bit of eczema but we are taking care of that. We think it has to do with the milk so we have completely switched you to a lactose free formula. You are wearing 6-9 months clothes. I have even been able to take out some of Lola's old summer clothes and some will work for you for this summer.

You sure do love your Big Sissy, Lola. She loves you too. She always wants to hold you and I have noticed lately she wants to carry you...don't worry I won't let her!! You look at her with total adoration.

You are such a great sleeper. You go to bed between 8 and 9 and sleep until I wake you in the mornings. I will say that you aren't much of a napper. You take little cat naps here and there.

Mommy bought for you the other day an infant tent for the beach and a floatie for the pool & beach. I can't wait for summer...you are going to love the water.

Easter Weekend

2010-04-05T23:58:00.000-04:00

WOW! What a crazy busy weekend. It was a great weekend too! Friday night started it off...Tony & I went to see The Thorn. It was basically a live story of Jesus' life. It is so good. This is the 2nd year we went to see it with our small group. This year I cried during it...the sacrifice for us...words can't describe the emotion I felt.

Saturday morning we got up and took Isabelle to my grandmothers to spend the day with my Gram and Aunts. Then Lola, my mom & I headed over to my parents church for the Charleston Egg Drop. This year was so much better than last. Lola got 8 eggs and got to play a few games, jump in the jumpcastle, etc. She had a really good time. I would have liked to have taken Isabelle with us but they were expecting 900 kids + parents = LARGE CROWD! I also loved this year that the helicopter didn't come too low. Last year I had a horribly disturbing image in my head of the helicopter blades going through the crowd....sick I know but I am a major worrier and sometimes think the worst.

Sunday of course was Easter Bunny, Kidstuf, Church, visiting family, etc etc! We did manage to sneek a nap in there (all 4 of us I might add). Lola was so excited the Easter Bunny came. He left her candy, a Strawberry Shortcake pool, The Squeakquel, markers, stickers, bubbles, coloring book, and her favorite LIP GLOSS! Isabelle also got a few presents from the E Bunny. She got some blocks, a tea set, a lady bug toy and a Peter Rabbit book.

Hope you have enjoyed the pictures!! Isabelle will be 5 months tomorrow so I will post about her :)!!

2010-03-30T21:35:00.000-04:00

Hey Mommy.....

look what

I found!!

4 Months

2010-03-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

Isabelle is 4 months old today.

Weight: 14 lbs, 15 oz

Isabelle learned this past Saturday to roll over. Woo Hoo!

She loves her exersaucer and plays with all the toys.

She loves to watch her hands and loves to reach out and touch things.

She is very sweet and is very sensitive.

She is learning to touch your face when she wants a kiss.

And she loves to get kisses!

I truly think she knows how to say "hey".

She is wearing 3-6 months clothes.

She HATES socks...kicks them off all the time.

Isabelle loves to watch Lola.

Not ready for rice cereal yet. I gave her a tiny tiny taste of a baked potato

the other night and she spit it out and made a yucky face.

I have noticed the last few days that she is trying to lift herself up. I give

her 2 months before she is sitting up unsupported.

Izzy is a mommy's girl.

We call her Isabelle, Isabelle Claire, Izzy, Belle, and Izzy Claire.

Her cousin, Dalton, calls her baby Belle and Tinkerbelle :)!

SHE IS LOVED!!!!

Sunday In The Park

2010-02-22T22:30:00.000-05:00

Sunday was such a beautiful day...weather in the 60's and sun shining. There was no way I could let us stay indoors. After church my sister, Sara, called to see what we were doing. I told her I wanted to do something and Lola wanted to ride her bike, so we decided to go downtown to Hampton Park. It was so nice. We got to pet the police horse, Moose, and Lola was quite intimidated by his size. We took lots of pictures, laid in the grass, played hide & seek and eye spy. We also ran into Kayce who was taking pictures of a little girl. When she finished we got to visit with her for a while. When we were ready to leave Lola decided she no longer wanted to ride her bike so Sara rode it all the way back to the car. It was a really nice afternoon and the best part...it was free!!

Grocery Savings

2010-02-20T21:33:00.000-05:00

Ok, so I am new to the whole couponing thing. To tell you the truth I am fairly "green" when it comes to grocery shopping. We WERE a family that ate out every night. We use to joke that we alone pay for the electricity at the restaurant down the street from us. Anyways, it just got too expensive and we couldn't afford to do it anymore. So, now I grocery shop and we eat at home. I have been couponing for about 2 months now and I have had some really great savings. Tonight I went to both Harris Teeter and Publix. Harris Teeter had double coupons...YEAH!! My total bill between the two stores was $153.96 and I saved $152.69 with coupons and store specials. Not too shabby. If you look you will see that I purchased 2 things of Enfamil formula (normally $25 each), 3 packages of chicken breast, hamburger, soups, 2 things of bottled water, milk, detergent, lunch meat, yogurt, snacks and more!! You will also see that I am not much of a healthy eater either...Totinos pizzas, muffin mix, dark chocolate Chex Mix, etc etc. I did buy vegitables, but not a lot....I am tryin' people!!

She's GANGSTA!!!

2010-02-20T09:26:00.001-05:00

I was getting my baby girl dressed for bed last night and noticed her new "tat"...lol! She loves fake tatoos. I am hoping she gets over it before she gets older and wants a real one. Anyways, I climbed in bed with her this morning and we were being silly. I grabbed the camera and told her to "be gangsta". This is her interpretation. :)

Winter Jam 2010

2010-02-15T11:27:00.000-05:00

Last night we went to Winterjam sponsored by Way-FM. It was great! The bands that were there were: Fireflight, NewSong, Newsboys, Tenth Avenue North and THIRD DAY!!! I loved Third Day! My 2nd favorite was Tenth Avenue North.

Here is a pic of us girls (Shannon, Me and Sara)

Here is a pic of the boys (Tony and Billy)

And lastly a pic of Third Day!!

We Build Sandcastles Not Snowmen!

2010-02-13T08:21:00.000-05:00

Last night Lola & Isabelle got to see their first snow. It has been several years since Charleston, SC has seen snow. Where we live didn't get as much snow as other parts of the Lowcountry but it was enough for us. Isabelle had no clue what she was looking at but Lola had a great time. Lola threw a few snowballs and made 2 snow angels. I tell you though, I was over it last night once the power went out. It wasn't out for very long but still. Enjoy the pics of our Charleston snow.

Funny Lola

2010-02-11T13:52:00.000-05:00

So, Lola has always been funny, but lately she has been cracking us up with the things she says. Some of these you probably just had to be there to get the full humor. Here are just a few:

1. Isabelle was crying and Lola said "Isabelle said a bad word". Tony said "Oh yeah, what did she say?" She paused for a minute or two and then she said, "She said sh*t".
2. I called Lola on the phone when she was at her Gramma's to say hi. She said "I want to tell you what I did today". She said "I didn't do attitudes. I didn't do spankings." She went on to tell me some things she did do, but I enjoyed the ones she didn't do! :)
3. One morning when Lola and I were in the shower she said out of no where, "Mom, you are ruining my life!" My response to her was, "Really, I didn't think I was suppose to do that until you're 15?"
4. Lola was in the tub and Tony came in singing "I see your bootie, it smells like doodie!". Lola looks at him and says "No it doesn't, I just washed it!!" LOL!!
5. Her daddy was giving her a bath and was getting frustrated because Lola was being difficult to wash. He kinda fussed at her and she looked at him and said "Why are you being so crabby today?". Ha Ha Ha!!!

3 Months Old

2010-02-07T22:31:00.004-05:00

It is hard to believe that 3 months has already passed. Seems like just yesterday Isabelle was lying on my chest in the hospital room. Our little Izzy is the sweetest baby. She is so chill and she loves to smile and to talk. She coos all the time. When she is with you, you have her undivided attention...she stares right into your eyes. I love to feel that connection. She also loves her big sister, Lola. She smiles at her and Lola is starting to feel like she can "play" with her. The other morning they were lying in the bean bag together watching "My Friends Tigger and Pooh". It is my prayer that they grow up to not only be sisters but the best of friends.

Speaking of being the best of friends...Lola and her cousins are the best of friends. Tonight they all played Simon Says. Payton was kicking butt with this game. Lola and Walker still haven't quite figured it out.

And lastly, Lola decided tonight she wanted to ride on Walker's 4 wheeler with her Uncle Bob. Normally Lola is terrified of anything that makes a loud noise (ie. motorcycles, vacuum cleaners, 4 wheelers). Apparently she got brave and wanted to ride like the other kids. I will add that she stopped and prayed for her safety before she got on.

Tiny T and his homeboy, Joe rapping for Christ

2010-02-07T13:01:00.005-05:00

Our church puts on a monthly production called KidStuf. It is to bring children into the church and let them know that being a Christian can be fun. Every month the kids learn about a new virtue. The virtue for this month is HONOR. Honor is "letting someone know you see how valuable they really are". Well, Tiny T and his homeboy, Joe performed their rap this morning at KidStuf and it was great. I LOVED IT! I hope you do too.

P.S. Sorry the video is all over the place. I was laughing! He He!

P.P.S. Here are the words just in case you can't understand what Tiny T is saying. He has a Geechee style rap!

"Now here's a little story you all must know
About me Tiny T and my homeboy, Joe
It started way back in history
Before Christ was in my life and now your boy can see
You see Joe has stuck with me through thick and thin
even when my life was full of nothing but sin
So here is your mission if you choose to accept
Give this medal to your hero or someone you respect
Well I guess its time for me to end this rhyme
But sit back and relax we will see you next time!"

My Little Bear

2010-02-05T21:53:00.002-05:00

Happy 2nd Birthday Gabe!!

2010-02-02T10:02:00.002-05:00

We will never forget you sweet boy! Have a Happy Birthday in Heaven! Tanya, I am praying for you today. I love you!

Back to work

2010-02-01T12:00:00.000-05:00

Well, as you know I went back to work on Friday. It wasn't so bad...I lived! I missed my girls really bad but they are both in great hands so that makes me feel better. Tony and I decided not to put Lola in daycare full time. Instead she will be staying with Tony's parents. She is going to go from 9-12 daily to our church's preschool. That way we know she will always be in a loving environment. Here is a picture of Izzy and I on Friday morning before we left for work and JoJo's. Lola was still sleeping when I left. Oh and in case you are wondering what Isabelle is fixated on...it was the light!

I also have included a picture of Lola and I 3 1/2 years ago the day I went back to work after having her.

We love Aunt Mickey!!

2010-01-31T23:04:00.005-05:00

My Papa's sister, Mickey (Miriam is her real name), is in Charleston visiting. I love when she is in town. She is so special to our family and we love her so much. She is a wonderful sister to my Papa and a great, great Aunt.

Bath Time

2010-01-26T10:15:00.008-05:00

So, I realized last night that I had no bath time photos of Isabelle. She loves her bath. She hasn't started to play in the bath but she loves to have the warm water pour on her belly and head. However, none of the pictures I have of her, are her smiling but I promise she has the biggest grin on her face during bath time. For some reason when the camera comes out her face goes right into this blank look.

This morning we had Isabelle's 2 month well baby check-up. We are a little behind on this due to Izzy having had RSV. Everything went well. Isabelle is 13 lbs, 4 oz and 24 in., both putting her in the 75 percentile. Her head circumference is 16 in., and that put her in the 90 percentile...big head for that big, smart brain ;)! She also had to have the dreaded vaccinations. She, of course, cried but that is where mommy steps in and gets to make everything all better. Isabelle has also started to laugh when you find her tickle spots. It is the cutest thing EVER!! I will have to get a video of her laughing and post it on here. Here is a pic of her after the Dr's appt. All tuckered out!

2nd Annual Gingerbread Adventure

2010-01-25T20:17:00.002-05:00

My sweet 5 yr old cousin, Matthew, had his 2nd Annual Gingerbread Adventure on Saturday. Lola had so much fun last year that we couldn't miss it this year. The party this year was themed "On the road to Christmasville". My Aunt and Uncle's house was decked out with all kinds of gingerbread houses. I took a lot of pictures. I hope you enjoy them. Also, there is a picture of Lola with a bottle penguin who she named Sara Lynn :)!

On a sad note, I am returning to work this week...Friday is going to be the worst day ever! I have been crying ALOT!! I have enjoyed my 12 weeks maternity leave but it has made me really want to be a stay at home mom. We just can't afford that right now. I am going to try to pay off as many bills as we can this year and who knows maybe something will change. I am doing a lot of praying about it.

The Babes

2010-01-21T11:44:00.012-05:00

Here are some pictures I took of Lola playing at the playground and riding her bike. She is growing up so fast. She has also started to say some really funny things lately. The other morning she told me the I was "ruining her life". I didn't think I was suppose to do that until she was 15! ;)Lola is starting school for the first time on Monday. She is joining a 3's class at a local daycare. She is so excited. I will make sure to post a picture of her on her first day.

Here are some pics of Isabelle. I love taking pictures of my sweet girl. She is so laid back but when she is hungry...woo hoo now that is a different story. She goes next week for her 2 month visit at the Dr's office. We had to delay the 2 month well baby check-up with vaccinations b/c of RSV. She seems to be in the clear now. I am also including a video of our little talker. She loves to coo and goo.

Here are pictures of Lola teaching Isabelle to pick her nose. One of those great moments caught on camera!!

Videos of Lola and Isabelle

2010-01-13T20:03:00.002-05:00

Here are some videos from today. Lola wanted to feed Isabelle and it was her first time feeding the baby. She did a good job.

National Champions!!!!

2010-01-08T01:19:00.003-05:00

ALABAMA FANS

2010-01-07T13:46:00.002-05:00

ROLL TIDE, ROLL!! Our family will be cheering tonight for our #1 Alabama Crimson Tide to beat the #2 Texas Longhorns.

What SHINED in 2009!

2010-01-02T18:48:00.006-05:00

Last year I posted what was Great in 2008 and this year it is what Shined in 2009. Here goes:

1. This one is an unspoken but is the most important.

2. The birth of our sweet baby girl, Isabelle Claire. She came into our lives on Nov 6, 2009.

3. Lola turned 3 on June 28 and we had a princess themed birthday party for her.

4. Tony started attending church at NBCC and we attend as a family!

5. Tony and I both turned the BIG 30 this year.

6. Tony and I both lost 30+ lbs...mine was baby weight so I am not quite sure it counts.

7. We celebrated Tony's 1 year sobriety on July 12, 2009. He got rewarded with a 52" flat screen, Blu-Ray, and an entertainment stand. It was also part of his 30th Birthday present.

8. Lola Marie got to go to Disney for Halloween again this year. I didn't get to go this time b/c I was almost 9 months pregnant. She also got to go see Miley Cyrus in concert. Lucky little girl.

9. We were all blessed with good health, a mortgage paid, food in our bellies, clothes on our back and love for one another!

2010

2010-01-01T23:06:00.007-05:00

Welcome 2010...nice to meet you! I am so excited for this year. I am going to change my attitude. First, I am going to work on my relationship with the Lord. I tell you I don't quite know or understand what happened to me but I guess I got lazy in my walk. I want to pray everyday and more than once, I want to rebuild my relationship, and I want to be more active in the church than I was in 2009. Please pray for me and with me. Secondly, I am going to organize my life. I feel like in 2009 I was seriously lazy. For most of 2009 I was pregnant with Isabelle so I have somewhat of an excuse. I am going to organize my house and get rid of the clutter. Sometimes I feel like I should be on that show "Hoarders"...J/K I am not that bad but we do have a bunch of junk lying around. I already started today by going to TJ Maxx and getting a couple of those organization baskets. Third, I would like to work on my marriage. With work and children our marriage is sometimes put on the back burner. I hope to change that and one way we can is that we both grow in our relationship with the Lord. I know that will bring us closer in 2010. I want to start dating my husband again.

So, tonight our family went over to my parents for some hoppin' johns, collard greens, cornbread and turkey. It was so YUM! Here's to good luck and good fortune in the new year! P.S. I ate lots of collards...bring on the moolah!!

And lastly for my first post of the new year, my sweet Isabelle is now 2 months old. I have seen other mothers document their babies first year by taking a picture of them each month. I didn't do it for 1 month but I guess it couldn't hurt to start now. My sweet Isabelle is about 12 lbs now. We just quit breastfeeding and she is now on formula. I was pretty upset about this but I don't really care to discuss my breastesess on my blog. Isabelle is a Mommy's girl. She is smiling now when something makes her happy. She recognizes her family and loves to watch her sister, Lola dance and act silly. Isabelle is also working on her hand eye coordination. She likes to hit her toys and she likes to try to put her hand in my mouth so I can make these kissy noises on her hand. I am just so in love with this sweet girl.

Happy Birthday Sara Lynn!!

2009-12-31T13:38:00.003-05:00

Today is my sweet sister Sara's birthday. She is now officially the BIG 23!! Hard to believe the girl Krystal and I thought was our baby doll is now 23. I made a photo collage of a few pics of Sara over the past few months. One thing I can say about Sara is she likes to have fun and is always smiling. I love my sister! I hope you have a Happy Birthday.

Christmas at the Woodall's

2009-12-27T11:43:00.009-05:00

This Christmas was great. I was so relaxed since I have been on maternity leave. This was the first year in a long time I didn't get too stressed. Tony and I took the girls out during the weekday and did some shopping so we didn't have to venture out on the weekends.

Christmas Eve was a different this year. Lola went to Christmas Eve service with her Gramma & Poppa. Tony went to service at our church. Isabelle and I stayed home because Izzy has RSV and we wanted to keep her in at night. I did go out Christmas Eve afternoon with my sister, Sara, to see New Moon and to do a little shopping at the Tanger Outlets. That evening we baked cupcakes for Santa instead of cookies. We figured Santa would be a bit burned out on cookies so we gave him something different. Lola also wanted to give Santa chocolate milk instead of plain milk. I have to say Santa thought it was a great snack ;)! Tony had the idea to feed Rudolf and the other reindeer a snack of oatmeal, sugar, and red & green sprinkles. Before bed, Tony read all of his girls "The Night Before Christmas".

Christmas morning was fun. We all slept in until about 8 am which was nice. It is a lot earlier than we have been waking up but it was Christmas morning. I am surprised Lola actually slept that long. Lola asked every Santa she saw for a Barbie bike and every Santa heard her b/c she got her Barbie bike. She was so excited and rode her bike all over our living room. She also got Strawberry Shortcake stuff, a Leapster 2 with 3 games, Barbie Mermaid Falls and a Mermaid Barbie, and other stuff. One of her favorite presents was from my parents and it was a Hello Kitty CD player and an Alvin & the Chipmunks CD. She has listened to the Chipettes sing "All the Single Ladies" a million times. Isabelle got a few things from Santa. Her big present was Fisher Price Songs and Smiles Silly Town. She also got some balls, an Alphabet Worm, and musical book. I got a mother's ring from my girls. It has both of their birthstones in it. Lola's is the pearl and Isabelle's is the blue topaz. It is a really pretty ring. Tony got jipped with socks and dip...Sorry!

Later that day we went to my parents house and ate and exchanged gifts. The kiddos definetly got spoiled and the food was YUMMY!! My favorite things to eat are sweet potatoe caserole and green bean caserole. My favorite desert is lemon meringue pie but this year I have been enjoying pecan pie with whipped cream on it.

That evening we went over to the in-laws for Christmas dinner and to exchange gifts. Lola had the greatest time playing with her cousins. I was so stuffed from dinner at my parents house I didn't have room for the roast, mashed potatoes, salad and green beans, but it did look delicious!! Lola and Izzy got a lot of great presents. Lola got a Liv doll, a Barbie, a Fur Real cat, clothes, and some jewelry for dress up. Isabelle got a some diapers, an outfit, some mary jane style socks with flowers and bows (super cute) and a pearl bracelet with a cross on it.

Hope you and your families enjoyed the Christmas Holiday. I know we did!

Survey

2009-12-23T13:05:00.003-05:00

**********FOODOLOGY***********

What is your salad dressing of choice? Thousand Island

What is your favorite sit-down restaurant? Cibo's

What food could you eat every day for two weeks and not get sick of? Chicken

What are your pizza toppings of choice? Pepperoni and pineapple

What do you like to put on your toast? Butter and grape jelly

***********TECHNOLOGY*************

How many televisions are in your house? 2

What color cell phone do you have? Navy blue

***************BIOLOGY****************

Are you right-handed or left-handed? Right

Have you ever had anything removed from your body? 2 babies & wisdom teeth

What is the last heavy item you lifted? True that Sara...LOLA

Have you ever been knocked unconscious? no but I have passed out before

************BULLCRAPOLOGY************

If it were possible, would you want to know the day you were going to die? No

If you could change your name, what would you change it to? I have no clue.

Would you drink an entire bottle of hot sauce for $1000? How hot are we talking? I would have to consider it.

************DUMBOLOGY*************

How many pairs of flip flops do you own? 2

Last time you had a run-in with the cops? I got pulled over about 13 years ago for speeding on River Road. I was headed to my friend Whitney's house to eat her mom's yummy potatoes. Other than that we had a neighbor who didn't like Tony and would call the cops on him for anything (ie. putting wood from a shed we tore down across the street (vacant lot) instead of in our yard...the trash man picked it up the next day.

Last person you talked to? Lola

Last person you hugged? Izzy

**************FAVORITOLOGY**************

Season? Summer

Holiday? Halloween

Day of the week? Saturday

Month? June b/c I always take off the week of Lola's birthday and we go to the beach & splash zone

***********CURRENTOLOGY************

Missing someone? Yes my Mama

Mood? Hungry...when does the chef get here!?

What are you listening to? Dora

Watching? My computer screen

Worry? about Isabelle having RSV and also that Lola still has a horrible cough and runny nose

***************RANDOMOLOGY**************

First place you went this morning? Bathroom

What's the last movie you saw? "All about Steve"

Do you smile often? Try to

Sleeping Alone Tonight? Nope...with Tony and Izzy

***************OTHER-OLOGY**************

Do you always answer your phone? No, I scan calls. However, Lola likes to answer my phone a lot.

Its four in the morning and you get a text message, who is it? Someone in trouble (better not call at four unless there is trouble). Momma needs her sleep.

If you could change your eye color what would it be? I like my eye color, hazel.

What flavor do you add to your sonic drink? Cherry

Do you own a digital camera? Yes a Sony Cybershot

Have you ever had a pet fish? I have 3. We had 4 but one just died.

Favorite Christmas song(s)? O Holy Night

What's on your wish list for your birthday? Clothes

Can you do push ups? yes

Can you do a chin up? maybe

Does the future make you more nervous or excited? excited to watch my babies grow up

Do you have any saved texts? Yes pictures my sisters sent me of Lola

Ever been in a car wreck? no

Do you have an accent? Sometimes I can hear a bit of a southern accent in my voice

What is the last song to make you cry? I don't cry

Plans tonight? Just hanging out at the house

Have you ever felt like you hit rock bottom? Yes

Name 3 things you bought yesterday. Salad mix, cupcake mix, frosting

Have you ever been given roses? Yes, my husband is very good about sending me flowers for valentines, my birthday and mothers day

Current worry? The sickness plaguing the Woodall home. Lola has bronchitis and Isabelle has RSV. Tony and I are also getting it.

Current hate right now? No money!!

Met someone who changed your life? My husband and my girls

How will you bring in the New Year? Celebrating Sara Lynn's 23rd birthday and Tony's Uncle Timmy's birthday

What song represents you? Not quite sure but I really like "Revelation Song" right now.

Would you go back in time if you were given the chance? No

Have you ever dated someone longer than a year? My husband

Do you have any tattoos/piercings? Ears pierced

Will you be in a relationship 4 months from now? Better be!! ;)

Does anyone love you? My family

What songs do you sing in the shower? I don't sing in the shower. I am usually fighting with Lola to wash her hair.

Ever had someone sing to you? Lola he he

When did you last cry? Don't cry but I had a bacterial infection in my small intestine that brought tears one night.

Do you like to cuddle? Yes with my family

Have you held hands with anyone today? No

Who was the last person you took a picture of? Lola

What kind of music did you listen to in elementary school? I don't remember...I think Madonna

Do you believe in staying close with your ex's/prospects? No

Are most of the friends in your life new or old? mix

Do you like pulpy orange juice? No

Go ahead and join in the fun! you Know you want to! :)

Isabelle's Newborn Photos

2009-12-13T21:43:00.006-05:00

The below photo's were taken by our friend Kayce @ KDS Photography. Kayce takes such great photos and we just love her! Isabelle was 2 weeks old in these photos.

Here she is!

2009-11-14T11:17:00.004-05:00

Isabelle Claire was born on Friday, November 6. We are so in love with this sweet baby girl. She was 9lbs, 14 oz and was 21 in. Yes, a big girl. I definetly couldn't have gone with a natural delivery...good thing the c-section was scheduled. She is a cuddler and loves to eat & sleep. Her big sister Lola is so proud. She is always asking to hold her. She helps me change her diaper, bathe her and sits with me while I feed her. Here are just a few pics of her 1st week:

Halloween 2009

2009-11-02T19:56:00.006-05:00

My beautiful little fairy,Lola.

Isabelle dressed for the occassion as a pumpkin. He He!

Family Photos at Folly

2009-09-29T12:23:00.003-04:00

A few Saturday's ago we had our family photos taken out at the Folly Pier. I love them! They are a combination of maternity, family and of course, Lola. Our friend, Kayce is the greatest photographer and her business KDS Photography is booming! Please check out the photos and her website at http://kdsphotography.blogspot.com/.

By the way, the countdown is on and baby Isabelle should be here soon. We just finished Lola's new bedroom and Isabelle's is in progress. We decided to keep everything the same in the nursery to spare us the expense of buying new linens, etc. Well, we also decided to keep the same wall color. This may not have been the best decision. I found in the garage the original paint can and it was almost a full gallon. The guy at Lowe's said it should still be good and to just stir it. All I can say is "HA"! The color use to be a pretty pale pink, but now the song "nausea, heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, diarrhea...hey Pepto Bismol!" comes to mind every time I step in the room. Tony refuses to repaint so I guess I have to live with it.

Anyways, I have a lot of work to do in the house today and have waisted so much time already. I will try to update my blog more often.

2009-07-26T21:16:00.001-04:00

4th of July pics that never posted

2009-07-25T22:21:00.001-04:00

Riverdogs Game Saturday, July 18

2009-07-25T22:19:00.003-04:00

Last Saturday night after spending most of the day at the beach with the family we all went to the Riverdog's game. Lola calls them the Riverdoggies...too cute. We got free tickets from the bank and brought the crew of me, Tony, Lola, Mom, Dad, Big Papa, Sara and Seth. They played the Kannapolis Intimidators. We left before the end of the game so we don't actually know if they won but we doubt it b/c they were behind. We all had a great time and got to eat hotdogs, nachos with cheese,and boiled peanuts. Leave it to the pregnant lady to make sure as much junk food is around as possible. Sara took Lola to get her face painted and she came back with a huge sparkly mermaid on her arm. She loved it and was so disappointed I made her wash it off before bed. It was a good time but the bench seats were a bit rough on all of our hineys.

**I will post pics from the beach, baby Brody's 1st birthday and Lola and Payton soon.

Staycation, Lola's 3rd Birthday and 4th of July

2009-07-12T08:32:00.006-04:00

Got a little behind with my blogging...story of my life. I just don't know how all of you women find the time to update so much?
Anyways, we had our staycation June 22-28 and had a great time. Monday we ran errands for Lola's birthday party, Tuesday we went to Splash Zone, Wednesday we were bums (loved this day), Thursday we met aunt Sara for a day at the beach, and Friday we found out the sex of the baby, Lola went to see the Tall Ships, and I cleaned the house. Saturday was the big day...Lola's Birthday Party and Sunday we went to church and spent the day with Lola at Splash Zone. All in all, I felt it was a great staycation. I am sure I left some things we did out but that about sums it up. Here are some pics of our staycation:

Lola turned 3 on June 28 and on the 27th we had her Princess Party. We had everyone over for pizza, cake and ice cream. We had our jumpcastle set up and everyone enjoyed a snow cone. For some reason it has been the "Year of the Frog" in our neighborhood. Our yards are covered with thousands of little baby frogs. The kids had a great time at the party catching frogs. I did not plan this but they enjoyed it. Anyways, I loved Lola's birthday cake. I got it from Sweetsmith Bakery and they make the cutest cakes...plus it tastes really good. Lola got tons of presents. She is really into dresses, playing dress up, Troy from HSM, and Hannah Montana. She got everything she loves and more. Thank you to everyone who came. I am thinking next year will be circus themed...a pony, clown, red yellow green & blue balloons. Enjoy the pics from this years party:

I love 4th of July. Every year we go to the JIYC and have a picnic lunch with the Decker's, Atwater's, and Coopers (they were absent this year). It is always so nice and the burgers are great! The weather this year was gorgeous...nice breeze on the patio. Later that night we went to Tony's parents house for dinner, swimming and fireworks. After that we went to a ladies house in our neighborhood that is right on the Harbor and watched the fireworks from Patriots Point. It was really nice. Tony got so mad that my camera would not capture any of the fireworks. To tell you the truth it was operator error. I just don't think I had it on the right setting.

It's a......GIRL!!!

2009-06-26T10:25:00.003-04:00

We went this morning for our anatomy ultrasound and it's a healthy baby girl. She looks so sweet and I am just in love. I was so anxious about this one for some reason. I really couldn't stop thinking about whether it was a girl or boy. I truly lost some sleep this week because I was up thinking about it. Anyways, Lola went to my grandmother's this morning b/c she is going to see the tall ships. I told her she was going to be my first call and when I called and told her she was so excited. I said, "Lola, you are going to have a sister". My aunt said I don't know what you said but she is smiling and then I hear her scream in the background, "I am going to have a sister!!" Here are some pics of our new baby girl. I love the one of her sucking her thumb.

Boy Crazy

2009-06-25T08:22:00.004-04:00

So, my almost 3 year old daughter is BOY CRAZY!!!! You should hear the things she tells us. Her "loves" are Cody from The Suite Life of Zack and Cody and Troy from High School Musical. Troy is her new "love" after watching High School Musical this weekend. She calls Troy "blue eyes" and pretends to talk to Cody on her cell phone. She asks us if she can go on dates with them!!! The kicker the other day was she said,"Mom, I am going to marry Cody and we are going to kiss and you can't say EWWW". OOOOMMMMGGG, how is this coming from my almost 3 year olds mouth!? My mom thinks she must have picked it up from some older girl, but I can't think of who? She does play a lot with my 6 yr old neice, Payton, but Payton is not boy crazy. I am hoping this phase ends soon because it is a bit unnerving to me. The thing is that we have always told her boys have kutties and you can't kiss a boy until your married. We also always have her cover her eyes during the kissing scenes. I am not sure how to handle this...on one hand I think it is cute, funny and happy she likes boys and the other hand I am worried that my daughter could grow up to take this too far if you know what I mean! Please pray for us and that we handle this the appropriate way.

Lake Marion Weekend

2009-06-22T08:57:00.005-04:00

This weekend the whole Woodall gang traveled to Lake Marion for a weekend vacation. I have to tell you I really needed this. It was so nice to get away from work, my messy house, etc. We stayed at Lakeside Marina & Resort. We had a great time boating, swimming, fishing and cooking out. On Saturday night we went to dinner at Sweatman's Barbeque and I think I ate my weight in hash and rice! YUM!!! Sunday we attempted to go out in the pontoon boat to the beach but we started to take on some water and decided to go back. Apparently the "thingy" underneath the boat had a hole in it...not good. So we went back to the marina and let the kids swim at the beach there. We had a good time! Here are some pics of our fun filled weekend:

HELLO...it's been a long time!

2009-05-25T12:18:00.012-04:00

Ok, so I have been a major slacker in the world of blogging. I have been following everyone else's blogs but not updating mine. I am not sure why I have let 2 months pass without a single post? Well, I guess I should recap what has been going on in the life of the Woodall family since March.

As most of you know we are expecting our second baby. We are all so excited! Lola says she wants a sister but Tony and I both will be happy either way. My first ultrasound was on March 26 and the baby looked more like a chicken nugget than a baby. The baby was only 7 weeks old and we could see the babies heart beating on the screen. Truly amazing!

My second ultrasound was at 12 weeks and the growth is amazing. See for yourself.

On to Lola and the fun we have been having. I guess I should start with the FABULOUS pictures my friend Kayce took of Lola before Easter. Her website is KDS Photography and there is a link to her site on my blog. She is awesome!

Lola, Sara, Sara's boyfriend Seth and I decided to go pick strawberries one Sunday at Ambrose Farms on Wadmalaw Island. Afterward, we went back to my parents house and made 2 strawberry pies...Yummy!

My parents church hosted the 1st Annual Charleston Easter Egg Drop and it was so much fun. All the advertising paid off b/c the place was a mad house. Lola wasn't able to get a single egg on her own. People (and I mean adults not children) were like a large vacuum cleaner sucking them all up. We did still have a great time and there were some very nice people who gave her a few eggs. I will say that the helicopter got a little low and I was having visions of a scene that would be on the national news...scared me to death but I just prayed and thankfully God answered my prayer and we had a great time!

Here are some pictures of our first trip to the beach 2009. Sara, Lola and I skipped church on Mother's Day and went to the beach. I know, so bad but it was a beautiful day and we all wanted to go early b/c there were a couple of other Mother's Day parties that afternoon. Excuses, excuses...I know I should have had my keister in church. I will point out that my husband did sell me out and went to church by himself that morning.

Well, I think that is about all for the day. I will do my best to update often and not let the months lapse without blogging.

Suri Cruise or Lola Woodall

2009-03-22T21:47:00.003-04:00

I showed this picture to Lola tonight and said "Who is that?" Her response was "that's me". I laughed because even she sees the resemblance. I had a lady at Gilligan's on Friday night stop and say she looks just like Suri Cruise. We have noticed the resemblance for quite some time now and have heard people say it before. I seriously can't get over some of the pictures I see of Suri b/c her facial expressions are similar to Lola's. Tony says Tom owes him some money...he he, not quite!

We have an announcement...

2009-03-06T22:06:00.003-05:00

We are expecting another little Woodall!! By my "guesstimation" we will be due in November. We are so thrilled and Lola is excited to be a Big Sister. She asked me the other day if she could feed the baby it's bottle. I have a feeling she is going to be my big helper.

Playhouse Disney Live on Stage

2009-02-28T20:23:00.007-05:00

Today, Lola and I went with Brooke, Lil Donnie, and Brooke's MIL, Kathy, to Playhouse Disney Live on Stage. We had a great time! Lil Donnie loves Handy Manny and got so excited when he performed. Lola's favorite was the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. For those who really know her know this is not a surprise. Here are a couple of pictures from the show:

Happy Birthday Gabe!

2009-02-02T12:39:00.002-05:00

One of my oldest and dearest friends, Tanya, welcomed a baby boy into this world on February 2, 2008. He is the first child to Tanya and her husband, Dan. Unfortunately, Gabe passed away a few days later on February 4. He was later diagnosed with a form of Trisomy (forgive me Tanya as I have forgotten which one). The next few days are going to be difficult for Tanya and Dan. I ask anyone who reads this blog to keep their family in your prayers. However, today is a celebration of his life so "Happy Birthday, Gabriel Ivan Doyle!!" I know you are having the best birthday party ever in Heaven!

"Gingerbread Baby" Adventure

2009-01-31T17:25:00.005-05:00

Today Lola and I went out to Johns Island to my Aunt & Uncle's house for my cousin Matthew's Gingerbread Adventure. First the kids got to make their very own gingerbread house. Lola had a hard time not eating the candy! Then the adventure started with a trip to Ms. Ann's house to help her with her candy cane emergency. She had candy canes all in her trees and the kids had to help her remove them. After that we went through the Mushroom Forest to find treasure. We went down Candy Cane Lane, Lollipop Row and then through the Candy Woods. Once we finished finding all the treasure we went back to the house for a gingerbread snack. The kids decorated a gingerbread church and then we went into the living room to read the story "Gingerbread Baby" by Jan Bret. The kids got to hold up masks of the animals in the story. It was a very creative party and Lola & I really enjoyed it.

2009-01-25T21:17:00.002-05:00

The Lord is my strength and my shield;
my heart trusts in him, and I am helped.
My heart leaps for joy and I will give
thanks to him in song.

Psalms 28:7

Confessions of a Twilight Addict

2009-01-22T11:34:00.007-05:00

I am addicted to Twilight. I managed to read all 4 books in a matter of a week and a half. I can not get enough of the love story of Bella and Edward. My home, my family, my dog, and hygiene (lack of a shower due to reading) have been seriously neglected because of my addiction. Now I feel like a "junkie" trying to get whatever fix I can from the internet. I have convinced my husband that he will be taking me to see the movie within the next week. I have heard, of course, the movie is no where near as good as the book, but I don't care. Like I said, I am a "junkie". I have even thought about reading the series again, however I am refraining because I think Tony may seriously injure me if I make an attempt. Lola even asked me last night when I was getting her dressed for bed if I was going to read my book...it was something about the sarcasm in my 2 year olds voice that let me know I may have a problem. Oh, well...

Shame on Mommy

2009-01-05T21:06:00.002-05:00

We have all heard it before...be careful what you say because little ears repeat it. Well, I wasn't careful and I said something in front of Lola that I shouldn't have. I said something about someone and she repeated it to the wrong person. I should have kept my feelings to myself instead of verbalizing them. I think we all have moments when we say to ourselves, "I shouldn't have said that!". This is one of those Mommy Lessons and I learned it the hard way. I need to be more cautious with things I say to & around Lola. Just like tonight while we were at Tony's tag football practice (he coaches 4 year olds), I was trying to keep her on the sidelines away from the boys practice. Well, I said we don't want to play with those "nasty" boys. I realize now that all it would take is for her to call one of the boys "nasty" and hurt their feelings. I also must confess that I have a potty mouth that Lola has picked up on. I need to eliminate several bad words from my vocabulary. Any ideas on how to teach a mommy to watch what comes out of her mouth?

The First Weekend of 2009

2009-01-04T23:07:00.004-05:00

Happy 2009! Well, I hope this weekend doesn't set the pace for how this year is going to turn out, because I was one lazy chic. We did go to Tony's cousin John's wedding. He married April Martel. The ceremony was at Nativity at 3:30 pm on Friday and the reception followed at the Francis Marion Hotel. I was unable to attend the actual wedding ceremony because of work. I probably would have missed it anyway because it was a full mass and Lola wouldn't have sat through it. Lola and I did make it to the reception though. Tony was one of the groomsmen in case you thought I was leaving him out of all of the fun ;). The food at the reception was awesome...tenderloin, turkey, shrimp & grits, mashed potatoes, pasta station & fruit station. Veggies were included but I prefer to list the starches!! Lola was a "dancing queen". My girl loves to dance and sing.
Saturday involved a lot of Lifetime movies and staying in pj's all day. I did brush the ole teefies though. Today was the first Sunday we went to church as a family....yeah Tony went to church! We had Kid Stuf this morning and it was awesome. Lola really gets into it. The virtue of the day was "Resourcefulness". The kids learned how to rely on God to get you through any challenges, etc that you may face. After church we went out with to lunch at Applebees with the Grooms, Mocks, Gregorys and Braddocks. Then we came home and Tony & Lola took a nap while I cleaned a bit and watched more Lifetime. Once everyone woke up we went to Nina & Papa's for Sunday dinner and mom & I worked on a puzzle together.

Happy New Year...Welcome 2009!!

2009-01-01T11:07:00.003-05:00

Well, with the start of the New Year, I would like to post 8 things that were GREAT in 2008!! Thanks for the idea Whit!

1. I started attending church again. I found a great church not even 5 minutes from my house. The church is New Beginnings Community Church and the pastor was one of my teachers at First Baptist, Shaun Horn. I love this church!

2. Tony has been sober for 6 months!!! Yeah!!! Woo Hoo!! He also starts a new job at Rockford Steel on January 2. I am so excited for him!

3. We are getting "Financial Peace" thanks to Dave Ramsey! I love him!

4. We got to go to Disney for Halloween and it was so awesome we are going back next October.

5. Lola's 2nd birthday in June was so much fun. To see her excitement just warms my heart.

6. Tony is got us hardwood floors & got Lola a jump castle through "bartering" items on Craig's List. Hopefully, the floors will be in soon, because I am too excited!

7. All of the new babies born this year...Copeland Grooms, Grace Preston, Brody Boyer, and Patrick Fogleman. The weddings...Ben and Alicia Trussell, Stephen and Angela (I can't remember Angela's married name..oops), & Stratton and Jenny Damewood. Engagements...Newman and Ashley & Jason and Kayce. New boyfriends/girlfriends...Sara and Seth & Mark and Alison.

8. The love and support of our friends & family. We are blessed!

I am excited for 2009! I have a feeling this is going to be a great year for our family. My resolution this year is to continue to grow in my relationship with the Lord. I have found that when you have a great relationship with Him, everything else just falls into place. His love is the greatest!

Merry (Belated) Christmas!

2009-01-01T09:36:00.012-05:00

OK, so the whole month of December came and went without a single blog post from yours truly. I know, I suck! Well, I guess I need to do one big blog to cover December. Here goes....

I created two collages of all of the Christmas time festivities. The pictures our from our afternoon at Freshfields Village on Johns Island to see Santa Claus, a photo shoot at Nina & Papa's for Lola's Christmas card, the Christmas parade in Downtown Charleston with Dana, Blake, Aunt Theresa & Matthew, the lights at the JI County Park,the Christmas party for Daddy's side of the family, Lola having fun in Stein Mart & Christmas Day.

Lola really enjoyed Christmas this year. Santa sent one of his elves to live with us...the Elf on the Shelf. Lola named her elf, Kelly. Kelly did wonders during the holidays of keeping Lola on her best behavior. She also started to warm up to Santa Claus around the 5th time she saw him. She loved baking cookies for Santa and putting out reindeer food (a mixture of corn & sunflower seeds) for Rudolph. She enjoyed all of the singing at Christmas Eve service and the greatest part was that daddy came to church with us. Lo loved Christmas morning & day! She got an Ariel vanity and a doll house. She also got some books, movies, Strawberry Shortcake doll, Candy Land, and some other small items. Overall, she had a lot of fun with friends and family.

2008-11-27T10:16:00.006-05:00

There are many things I am thankful for this year. I am thankful for my wonderful husband, who has overcome a major obsticle in his life this year. His decision saved his life. I am truly grateful for him and love him more each day. I am thankful for my sweet little girl, Lola Marie. She has been an absolute blessing. She is my joy and my love. I am thankful for the relationship that I have with my parents and with Tony's parents. They have been so wonderful to us and I love them so much. I am also thankful for the relationships with my sisters, brothers, aunts, grandparents, nephews, my neice, and cousins. Family is "one" of the most important things you can have in your life and I love mine.
Lola reminded me the other day of the MOST IMPORTANT thing in our lives and that is our love for God. My mom had asked all of us to tell today what we are thankful for and asked me to work with Lola to get her to say what she was thankful for. We were anticipating chocolate milk, Little Bill, etc. Well, we were in the car on Monday and I said "Lola, Thanksgiving is in a couple of days. What are you thankful for?" Her response was absolutely perfect. She said "Jesus". I told her that was the best answer I ever heard! I asked her "Is there anything else you are thankful for?" and she said "God". I told her she couldn't have said a more awesome answer. My 2 yr old is the smartest person I know! This Thanksgiving the most important thing to be thankful for is our relationship with our Lord and Saviour. My Mama passed away in January and I took loosing her very hard. Her death told stories of her life and how her faith was her rock. It is through her death that I started going to church and I am developing my relationship with God. I have seen throughout this year how much He has blessed my life. I have seen blessings big and small. I know that He is in my life and I love my Mama more than ever for witnessing to me from the grave. I miss her so much today, but I know she is with us in spirit.
Our family would like to wish everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

Lola's Surprise

2008-11-17T19:04:00.002-05:00

Lola, what did you do this weekend?

Ummmmm, I am thinking. Oh yeah, I remember.

I GOT MY EARS PIERCED!!! I only cried for a minute. The ladies at the store did both of them at the same time. I love my new earings.

Disney World

2008-11-08T08:47:00.009-05:00

Ok, so I have been very slack since my last post. Well, the week of Halloween we (my mom, Lola, Krystal, my aunts Susan & Theresa, my grandmother, my uncle Bubba & his wife Belinda, my cousin Matthew, and my aunt Theresa's boyfriend, David) went to see Mickey Mouse!! We left early Saturday morning and drove to Orlando. Lola did really well on the drive down. That night we just hung around the hotel but Krystal, Theresa, Susan & David went to Universal's Halloween Horror Night. They said it was a lot of fun...I'll take their word for it as I don't do scary. Sunday we got up and went to Epcot to see Nemo's Underwater Adventure, Turtle Talk with Crush & we waited 30 minutes at the Character Spot to see all of our fav. Disney characters. Lola was so excited right up until we were to have our pic taken with Mickey. She screamed so loud that Mickey covered his ears!! Mom & I ended up having our pics taken with Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Pluto & Goofy while Lola watched from afar. Then we headed over to the Magic Kingdom where all the fun began! We had a blast. The lines were not too long and the weather was about 78 degrees. Lola's favorite ride was Cinderella's Carosel but she rode Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, Snow White, Peter Pan, and Small World. She also loved Mickey's Philaharmonic Show when Donald threw a pie at her! That night we got to stay in the park after hours for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. We enjoyed the Boo-To-You Parade, Mickey's dance party with Donald, Pluto, & Chip & Dale, and of course riding the rides again. When we got back to the hotel we all crashed and crashed hard! The next day we went to Universal Studios. That is where my excitement began...we went to a Barney Show!! I know everyone is so jealous of me but Lola really liked it and I enjoyed seeing her dancing to all of Barney's songs. We also played at Curious George's Playground. We did get her on ET, which she did get a bit scared. Mom & Krystal got to ride all the cool rides...Jaws, the Mummy, Men in Black!! Lola did however want her picture taken with Mr. & Mrs. Woody Woodpecker. I still haven't figured why she wasn't scared of them like she was Mickey? That night we went to Downtown Disney to eat at the Rainforest Cafe. Which was $$$ but the food was good. The next day everyone left to head back to Charleston except for Lola, Mom, Theresa, David & I. Theresa and David went to Sea World, but we went to Disney's Hollywood Studios. We loved it!! We watched Playhouse Disney Live on stage twice b/c Lola had the best time there. We also saw the Little Mermaid show, Beauty & The Beast, Muppet 3D, and played in the Honey I Shrunk the Kids playground. Mom went on the Tower of Terror and Aerosmith's Rockin' Rollercoster. She said both were awesome! The next day we drove home and Lola slept about 4 out of the 6 hours home. Lucky us!! We had a really great time in Disney and Lola keeps asking me when we can go back. Here are 3 collages of pictures of all of our fun:

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-20T21:39:00.002-04:00

Yesterday we went out to the Pumpkin Patch at Legare Farms on Johns Island. We had such a great time with Booka, Holly & Dalton. Lola kept on trying to pick up the pumpkins. She would go "Uugghh, I can't get this one. It is too heavy!" She did manage to pick up a few, which you will see in the pictures. Lola did have Tony & I stand in line for about 30 minutes waiting to ride the pony. When it was her turn she chickened out. At least I know she won't be one of those kids who asks their parents for a horse for Christmas and Birthdays!! Anyways, she didn't like the chickens because she got her finger too close and one pecked her. We had a great time!! Between our night out on Friday and the Pumpkin Patch we had a great weekend.

P.S. I am one HAPPY wife and mom!

Our Night Out

2008-10-19T13:35:00.002-04:00

Friday night Tony arranged for us to have a romantic night out. He got us a room at the Marriot downtown. The Marriot just had a complete remodel and was so nice! After I got dressed we headed to Wasabi for some sushi. It was so, so, so good. Tony wasn't too fond of having sushi for dinner but it was something different for him to try. After dinner we went back to the Marriot and sat on the roof top bar. I had a water and Tony had a DIET COKE!! Woo Hoo! Today my husband is 100 days SOBER!! Anyways we had a great time and really need that time together. Also, it was my first time away from Lola in over 2 years.
Well, we are on our way to the Pumpkin Patch on Johns Island. I will make sure to post pictures tonight.

Lola's "Unexpected" Haircut

2008-10-14T21:13:00.005-04:00

Well, it goes something like this...we were over at Dianne & Gene's (Tony's parents) and were visiting with them and Tony's Aunt. I was explaining that I needed to get Lola's haircut. Yada Yada Yada, Tony's Aunt somehow thought that I gave the OK to give Lola a haircut and save me some $$$. Now, her intentions were good and I know that she would never have intentionally hurt me, but...

....it is too short!!! I immediatly burst into tears when I saw it. I would have never agreed to cut it in a "bob haircut". I wanted it to grow long. I just got to wear I could put pig tails in her hair and pony tails. I am getting over it but if you are a mom you have to understand how upsetting this is!
I have come to realize though that this is more than just hair to me. It is a big girl hair cut and my baby is getting to be a Big Girl. I have been trying to hold on to the baby in her the past couple of weeks b/c she is starting to do big girl things. Did you know my 2 yr old loves Hannah Montana and she loves to sing Pink's "So What"? She sings about being a rockstar and wearing rock boots!!
I sat her down last night to explain to her that I wasn't upset with her about what happened & that I was upset with Aunt L because she didn't let me know what she was doing. I also told her that I didn't want her to be a big girl and I wanted her to stay my baby. She told me "I have to mommy" and I said "have to what?". She responded and said "be a big girl". I cried out, "No, why do you want to be a big girl?". Lola responded by saying, " I have to be a big girl mom b/c it's my job!". HELP!!!! She is growing up on me and I can't stop it!

2nd post for the day

2008-10-12T11:09:00.003-04:00

Anyone who knows me knows that I am a huge Britney Spears fan. Now, there was a time when I was a bit ashamed to admit that, but it seems that she has turned her life around. I love her new song "Womanizer"!! Lola likes it too. You should hear her say womanizer...it is too cute! Here is a link to Britney's website so that you can watch the video for "Womanizer": http://www.britneyspears.com/

Matt & Andrea's Wedding

2008-10-12T10:39:00.002-04:00

Last night I got to officiate my 2nd wedding as a notary public. I met Matt and Andrea through my co-worker & friend, Holly Hardy. Holly new Andrea when they both lived in St. John, BVI. Holly told them about the first wedding I officiated and they asked if I could do theirs too. Of course I said "yes". Anyways, the weather held off so that it could be out on the beach at Seabrook Island. I thought it was beautiful with the overcast skies. It was a bit too windy though! The reception was held at the Seabrook Island Community Center. The reception was decorated in candlelight, spanish moss, crystals, and pink roses. It was simple and beautiful. Make sure you see her bouquet in the Nautilus shell...gorgeous!!

Fire Prevention Night

2008-10-09T21:36:00.002-04:00

Tonight we went to Fire Prevention Night at the James Island Lowe's. Lola had a great time watching the firefighters demonstrate "the jaws of life" and they had a Fire Safe House. There were Fire Trucks from James Island, Johns Island, Folly Beach, Summerville, and Isle of Palms. They had the ladder trucks with the ladders raised which I thought was really cool. Walker, my nephew, told me that he could climb all the way to the top and he wasn't scared. He is braver than I! Lola liked the Coast Guard boat so much that we couldn't get her to get out of it. Also, if you are wondering why my daughter has her mouth open in every picture...well, she likes to talk!!

Sydney Sue's 1st Birthday

2008-10-06T22:31:00.009-04:00

Tony, Lola and I got invited to Sydney Isgett's 1st Birthday on Saturday. Ryan and Daphne rented a beach house on Folly for the weekend. Sydney was so cute and guess what? She took her first steps that day...first steps on her first birthday. Now how cool is that!? Lola had a great time & she really liked those candy bracelets (you know the kind you can bite the candies off). The birthday cake was great. Daphne said a lady in Summerville makes them out of her home.

Sunday we of course had church, but before church we had Kidstuf! Kidstuf is a production put on by some of the church members once a month. They center the skit around a "virtue". The virtue for Sunday was DETERMINATION. The skit was about finishing something you start. They sang songs, did the limbo (which Lola loved) and gave out popcorn & balloons. Lola, however, is never allowed to have popcorn after what happened on Sunday...a popcorn kernel got stuck in her throat and she started choking. It scared the *expletive* out of me! If you are looking for a great church, check out New Beginnings Community Church. http://www.nbccwired.com/

Ok, so here is a hint as to what Lola is going to be for Halloween.

Blake's 2nd Birthday

2008-09-28T15:50:00.007-04:00

Ok, so we have been quite busy with Birthday parties lately. I have been told when they get older the one a weekend turns into 2-3! Blake's Birthday was a special one we couldn't miss b/c he is Lola's boyfriend! Plus, his Mommy & Daddy are our besties! Blake loves firetrucks and had a firetruck themed party. Here are a few pictures from his party:

P.S. Blake is the blonde cutie in the golf cart!

Saturday night we went to Bob & CiCi's house for Alabama football. My neice, Payton, had on a Bama cheerleading costume and I told her she looked cute & asked her if she was going to be a cheerleader on day. She said, "No, I am just wearing this because it is Alabama day!". Isn't that cute?
Today we went to church and are now enjoying nap time. Tonight my parents, Tony & I are going to our 2nd class of Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace. I took the time while Lola was sleeping to do my homework of preparing a budget. The class is every Sunday through Dec 14. If anyone who reads my blog is interested in signing up it is not too late. Just email me or give me a call. I really feel that it will be positive & life-changing for us.

Blackbeards Cove

2008-09-22T21:00:00.004-04:00

This past Saturday we went to RJ's 4th Birthday Party at Blackbeard's Cove in Mt. Pleasant. It was a lot of fun...they had miniture golf, jump castles, and a treasure hunt. Here are some pictures of Lola and her friends:

Well, as you have seen from a previous post, my daughter doesn't like to sleep in her bed. We have been really good for the past 2 weeks with getting her to fall asleep in her own bed. Of course she wakes up in the middle of the night and gets in our bed! Here is a picture of her yesterday at nap time. Apparently her changing table is more comfortable then her bed. I did move her to her bed b/c I was scared she would fall off.

Where a kid can be a kid!!

2008-09-15T09:00:00.004-04:00

This picture pretty much explains it! Yesterday, we went to Chuck E Cheese for Walker's 4th Birthday. We had a great time. Lola enjoyed playing basketball and calling Chuck E Cheese on the telephone.
Other than that our weekend was fairly uneventful. My Tahoe did break down on us Saturday night. Thank God it was in our neighborhood. Tony and his dad think it is a fuel pump. Apparently you have to take the gas tank off to replace the pump and I have a full tank of gas...lovely! I love my husband for spending most of the day yesterday trying to syphon gas from my car and working today on replacing the fuel pump. Also, thank you to my cousins Mark & Matt for getting my car home, my father-in-law for purchasing the syphoning tool and working on my car, my dad for providing us with a new fuel filter, and Big Josh for helping Tony today replace the fuel pump.

Off to JoJo's

2008-09-08T13:39:00.004-04:00

Well, this morning I had Lo a cute little outfit laid out. Lola had a better idea..."I want to wear princess!" I said "Baby, you can wear your princess dress when we get home tonight". Well she said "No!" and threw the outfit I laid out on the floor. She said "I want to wear that!" and pointed to the dress. She also wanted to pair it with her Dora shoes. Don't you love it? Just an FYI...that is chocolate at the bottom of her bottle. She is addicted to chocolate milk.

Labor Day Weekend

2008-08-31T22:24:00.014-04:00

On Saturday we went out in the boat with my parents, Sara, and my Aunt Susan. We went to the back side of Kiawah and met up with the Deckers and the Coopers. We had a really nice time. Here are a few pictures:

Later that night we got ready for the Clemson vs. Alabama game. Tony & I both like Bama and Tony likes USC and I like Clemson. I told him when we have a child that she can be a Bama fan and a Clemson fan...not a Gamecock. Here is a picture of Lola dressed up for the game. I like to call this picture "A Child Divided".

My PaPa celebrated his 89th Birthday on Sunday. We celebrated Saturday night with pizza,cake and then watched some football. Lola couldn't keep those little fingers from touching that cake!

Sunday we went to church and then met Dana & Blake at McDonald's for lunch. We came back to the house and Sara and I watched "Chick Flicks" the rest of the afternoon while Lola took a nap with her friends.

Dana and Blake came over and we proceeded to play dress up with my old prom dresses and Miss FB pageant dresses. Lola is wearing a beautiful sequin number from my Jr prom and holding my cheerleading pom poms. Dana is modeling my freshman year pageant dress. Don't hate...you know you wore something similar!

P.S. Thank you Kayce for helping me figure out why I was having duplicates in my collage!

My Flower Girl

2008-08-24T16:58:00.001-04:00

This weekend Lola and I went with my parents, PaPa and Sara to Greenville for my cousin Alicia's wedding. At the rehearsal, Lola and the other flower girl, Kaylee, did great walking down the aisle together. Afterwards we went to Soby's in Downtown Greenville. It was really nice and we had shrimp & grits, stuffed mushrooms, meats & cheese, & cookie cake! They had a roof top that you could go out and enjoy seeing the city. We didn't spend too much time up there because of the rain. The next day we just hung around and tried to get Lola to take a nap, but we were unsuccessful. We drove a little over an hour to the wedding. The ceremony took place at Symmes Chapel, "Pretty Place" in Cedar Mountain, NC. The Chapel is built into the side of the mountain and the view is breath taking. I wish I could have seen the actual ceremony but Lola decided she didn't want to perform her flower girl duties and threw a temper tantrum. The wedding planner aka wedding Nazi banished us from the area because she didn't want Lola upsetting the bride and the guests. I heard it was a beautiful ceremony and that Alicia was crying while saying her vows. Anyways, we made our way back down the mountain and wouldn't it figure, Lola decided to take a nap. The reception followed at Saffron's in the West End Market. The reception was so nice...the food, the cake, and my baby girl dancing until 10 pm!! I couldn't get her off the dance floor. At one point a bunch of women were dancing in a circle and Lola was dancing in the middle. She had a great time! This morning we woke up and drove to my aunt & uncle's house for brunch. We had a breakfast casserole, shrimp & grits, fruit and mimosas. Then we drove home...there is just something about driving over the James Island Connector that just gives you this feeling of home. Please enjoy the pictures and yes, again there are duplicates.

Firestation Friday Night and Yard Sale Saturday

2008-08-16T17:27:00.009-04:00

Last night we visited our favorite local firefighter, Big Josh!! We were so excited when we pulled in and saw DayDay and Blake too! Here are a few pictures of Lola and Blake playing on the fire truck and playing with golf balls. Also again duplicate pictures. If anyone is a Picasa expert and can tell me why there are duplicate pictures on my collage I would greatly appreciate it.

Today my mom and I participated in their neighborhood yard sale. We raised about $240...not too shabby for a Saturday morning. The money we raised is going towards our hotel room in Disney World. We are going in October!!

Also I took a picture last night when I was heading to my parents house. We were having a downpour and I noticed the sunset. I couldn't remember ever seeing the sunset in the rain or maybe I just never noticed?