McDuff Medley

Disney World (Day 1)

2009-11-18T16:33:00.013-05:00

Our Disney Adventure Begins

Our first day at Disney started about 2 pm because we had to get to the resort, unload, get the stroller, and on and on and on. Then we had reservations for lunch at the Grand Floridian Cafe. That lunch took about 2 hours!!!! The food was great but I don't think we'll go back for lunch.

We stayed in the Movie Resort. You get what you pay for, that's all I'll say about that!

This is in the lobby right outside the Cafe. We are ready to GO!!!!

We got there right before the 3:00 parade and the show they were having in front of the Castle was just ending. This is when we realized that Gabbie was not a big fan of fireworks. I thought she had outgrown that fear. Who knew!!!

Gabbies first Disney Parade.

It was HOOOOOOTTTTTTT but what did we expect.

Gabbie got her ears and could take no more. I think this is when we were headed to Hollywood Studios. We ate at Mama Melrose and rushed to FANTASMIC afterward. It was a great show!! I was under the impression there were not a lot of seats but they have a ton. It took me a week to recover from this "Vacation". I loved it but man was I pooped!!!

Disney World (Day 2)

2009-11-18T16:32:00.049-05:00

A Day in Magic Kingdom

The second day was spent in Magic Kingdom. Our day started with Crystal Palace for breakfast where we saw Winnie the Pooh and Friends. Even though they are getting older Abigail and Matthew still enjoyed seeing all the Characters.

Al and Poppy took Abigail and Matthew on Barn Stormer....Gabbie was not big enough so Nanny and I sat with her and watched them go by.

Next we ventured to The Judges Tent to see Mickey. Gabbie has seen Mickey Mouse on Mickey Mouse Club House but not really that much. I think this was our first Character photo shoot so we didn't know how she would do. The line was really not that long. They take in about 2 or 3 families at a time to the room where Mickey is waiting and you can take photos without all the preasure of a long line of people looking at you and wishing you would hurry up.

When we go in the room we had a family in front of us so we had a little wait. Alan was holding Gabbie at this time and he put her down. Well as soon as he did she started to take off to see Mickey. Alan had to hold her back. All fears of her being scared went out the window.

We were surprised to see Minnie with Mickey!!

We had a hard time getting Gabbie to turn around to take a picture because she was so engrossed in Mickey and Minnie.

You can see we actually got a photo but good thing it was shot that split second because she started inspecting Minnie after that.

Got to check out her tongue, then dress....

..then shoes....

..then nose...When it was time for us to leave and the other family was stepping up to take a photo, Gabbie ran back over there. We had to pry her out of there.

We rode a lot more rides and had a lot of fun. I didn't reall take a lot of photos of us at rides because we were so busy. I wish I would have now but at the time it felt to stressful to do it. Sanity is a good thing.

For dinner we went to Whispering Canyon Cafe which is located in the Wilderness Lodge. I loved the surroundings. I would be my first choice for resorts. Al and I both said we would love to here.

The dinner was FUN!!! When I was making reservations over the phone the guy I was talking to said, "Just a warning...Don't ask for ketchup!" That's all he would tell me. Well we didn't ask for ketchup but another table did and their waiter Yelled We Need Ketchup Down Here!!!!! Then out came a box of ketchup and no kidding they sat at least 20 bottles of ketchup on their table. Then later someone asked for it and their waiter screamed and everyone who had ketchup on their table took it to that table.

Our waitress was a HOOT. Then Al, Regina, and Alan asked for a refill and this is what they got........

A Huge Ball jar

We will definitely be back to Whispering Canyon!!

Disney World (Day 3)

2009-11-18T16:32:00.048-05:00

A Day at Hollywood Studios

Our first stop on day 3 was the 1900 Park Fare. The breakfast was wonderful and we got to meet Mary Poppins, the Madd Hatter, Alice, and Tigger. I would love to dress in Mary Poppins outfit. Just lovely!!

Gabbie was in awe!!

The Madd Hatter was REALLY CRAZY!!!!

I don't think Matthew really wanted a photo with Alice.

And of course we can't leave out Poppy!!!

The Army Men from Toy Story were hilarious. If Al were to have a job at Disney this would be it. VERY corny. Love you babe.

This was the most fun lunch we had. We ate at the 50's Diner and when I say 50's it's not just in the decor. The guy that took us to the table stopped us and wouldn't let us go any further because he said Regina was running ahead!! Our server told us we had better eat our vegetables or else. Oh, and don't even think about putting your elbows on the table. The kids even asked for permission to so they could color and he said it was okay. The food was a meat and 3 type and it was GOOD!! They also had reruns of the shows that were popular in the 50's. I had heard of a lot of them but a couple Alan and Regina were surprised and had forgotten about them. Lots of fun. We will definitely go back!!!!

With our Dining Plan we go an appetizer, main course, and dessert with every meal. We were very full and Disney doesn't skimp. When they do it they do it BIG!!

This was for one person!!!! It had 2 brownies, whipped cream, chocolate M&M's, and carmel!!!!

No way one person could eat this after an app, and food.

After lunch the guys went to ride the Rockin' Rollercoaster.(yes after eating that much, they were crazy)

We wanted to see the parade. We didn't see this one last time and to me this one is the most fun. They actually call you out at one point to dance with them! Really fun.

We are waiting on the Block Party and took the time to take some pics

Here they come......Block Party Bash!!

After the parade we headed over to see Ariel's show after that we let the kids pose with "June" from Little Einsteins and Handy Manny. Abigail and Matthew really like playhouse Disney when they get to watch TV.

We met back up with the guys and also met Prince Caspian!!! I think Gabbie told him she was Cinderella. Abigail loved meeting him and she remembers the movie. Mattie on the other hand is really picky about who he really wants to take pictures with.

I can't remember what they were laughing about but Regina was in tears she was laughing so hard.

This is my favorite ride!!! It was sooo much fun and soo cute!!!

The detail they put into everything is amazing. You are a toy in this ride. All the tinker toys and lights. While you are in line you are walking on a checkers board that is held up by lincoln logs and a Scrabble board over head. Matthew and I were in the same cart both times we went. And we had a blast!!!

You can see Andy's room in the back ground with cloud wall paper and lamp and chest of drawers.

We are headed to the Polynesian Resort to eat at Ohana which means family. The food was wonderful and it is served family style and they give you as much as you will eat. They walk around with skewers of barbecued turkey, beef , and chicken that is wonderful.

We were tired out!!!

This is really the only photo I have of Ohana. The kids were in a relay race aroung the dining room with brooms and coconuts.

Disney World (Day 4)

2009-11-18T16:31:00.033-05:00

Animal Kingdom

This picture is amazing or really what is in the picture is amazing!!! You will have to really look hard to find it. If you will look at the center branch

HERE

You will see vines and leaves. These are not ordinary vines. A person is wearing them and blending in with the vegetation as she moves. In this photo she is facing the flowers to the right and you can see the side of her face. I hope you can see it. I think you might be able to double click the photo to enlarge it.

This is a Safari we went on. There were amazing animal to see and gorgeous surroundings.

This was one of the must sees in Animal Kingdom.

The NEMO MUSICAL!!! Loved it. The costumes were beautiful and very detailed. I would go again!!!

This was a theme park in side Animal Kingdom that you have to pay for!!!! Whatever!!!! We let the kids ride on the FREE rides but didn't play any games.

After our time in Animal Kingdom we headed to Downtown Disney to eat at Wolfgang Puck Cafe. It was alright but not worth all the walking it took to get there. We were dropped off at one end and had to walk all the way to the other end of Downtown Disney. It's probably half a mile if not more!!!!

After dinner we went to the LEGO store and let Matthew spend some of his birthday money.

It is amazing what they can make out of LEGOs!

All of the above figures were made out of LEGOs. Pretty cool.

And of course we had to take a photo with Cinderella!! This is outside the Disney store girls sections. It is amazing the costumes they have and how expensive the Bibbity Boppity Boutique is. No way I'm paying that much money for something I can do myself and that will wash off in the shower that night!!!!

Disney World (Day 5)

2009-11-18T16:31:00.032-05:00

Epcot for the Day

We spent day 5 in Epcot. It was Alan's 60th Birthday and since he spent the first 2 yrs of his life in Japan, I thought it would be neat to go to Japan....at least Disney style. This is the day we had reservations for breakfast but cancelled them because we didn't want to get up at 6 am after getting to bed at 1 am the night before. I have learned a lot about what I will not do next time. NO breakfast reservations!!!!

As soon as we walked in we saw Daisy Duck and of course had to get a photo.

Everyone had to get a photo!!

Gabbie always had to love on the Characters. So Cute.

Even Nanny and Poppy had to join in the fun. Who can resist Daisy???

Next Stitch came out. We have never seen the movie but the kids wanted to see him anyway. He even made noises. Gross noises. At least he didn't stink!!

Anybody up for lunch in Japan?? The food was great and Alan even got a special hat and ice cream for his birthday!! If you have a birthday pin on EVERYONE tells you Happy Birthday!! We made Alan wear one but I know he really liked it.

This is an ancient style of drumming that has been kept alive for centuries!! Very entertaining.

Now we are back in The United States of America!!!

We were waiting on the next showing of The American Adventure that tells the history of America. This was Spirit of America Fife and Drum Corps announcing the Adventure was about to begin.

After entering we really enjoyed hearing the Liberty Singer. They sang acapella and were wonderful!!

This member of the singers went to Lee University. Which is a Christian college not far from where we live.

Next we made our way to Germany and met Snow White. Abigail had to check out the well and see if there were any of Snow White's bird friends hidding.

We couldn't get Matthew to get in the picture. Guess it's just a girl thing.

For Dinner we traveled to the top of the Contemporary Resort and had a Gourmet meal at the California Grill. It was no neat to see the fireworks. Nothing beats looking at them straight on though. It's just no the same.

Happy Birthday Matthew (Day 6)

2009-11-18T16:31:00.031-05:00

Our Last Day in Disney

Matthew is 6 today and we have a full schedule. We will be gone from now until late tonight so we had to find a time to open presents and sing happy birthday with the family. So this what it. I think the song, cake, and presents took maybe 10 minutes!!! We were on a very tight schedule and were exhausted!!! Okay Matthew you can open your gifts but you can't play with anything because we have to go to breakfast....Go Go Go!!!

Wow!!! The Crystal King. He had been asking for this for months.

Can you tell he was excited!!!

He was really in to LEGO Power Miners so that is a lot of what he received.

Time for Birthday Breakfast at CHEF MICKEY'S!!!

Matthew is obviously dressed as Mickey.

The Characters are on there way!!!!!

A kiss for Tinker Bell!!

Mickey Is Here!!

Don't they all look SO CUTE

Gabbie was loving all over Mickey and then he lifted her up by the hands and stood her on his feet for a dance before moving on. I think we slowed all of the Characters down. Oh well. They had a blast.

And now it starts...each meal they sing Happy Birthday and you get to blow out the candle. Happy Birthday Matthew!!!

Aw!! She loved all of our visitors!!

Got to check out EVERYTHING.

Finally I can eat my cupcake , at breakfast, Yum YUM !!!!

Aw Minnie and Mickey...together at last!!

Gabbie was SO CUTE. She just loved Minnie and didn't want any of them to go. This is what makes me want to go EVERY year. That and I really LOVE DISNEY!!!

Minnie wanted Mickey all to herself.

Oh Donald I love YOU TOO!!!

She must have something with tongues!!

Donald was not happy to see Mickey. You know they are enemies!!

How dare you wear that in my presence. He then pointed to me and scolded me and I said,"I didn't do it!! It was his Grandmother. Then Donald pointed to Regina and she was shocked and said,"it wasn't me, it was the other Grandmother!!"

Donald calmed down a little as Gabbie checks out his belly.

But not enough to completely embrace Mickey Matt!!

Got to sign those books and you better be ready!!!

Now it's Lunch time, hey didn't we just eat breakfast!!???

We did have some time in Magic Kingdom and then off to Cinderella's Castle!!

Photo Op. with Cinderella and then off to lunch upstairs with the princesses!!!

Snow White was the first to grace us with her presence!!

Then Princess Aurora aka Sleeping Beauty,

Jasmine,

Hey Belle I saw you with the Beast.

Don't you just love this stage when they think they are smiling but actually NOT!!!

Crazy!!

Time for another cupcake and a round of Happy Birthday!!!

Waiting to see Tinker Bell, we finally made it this far. I think we waited in line for over 30 min. And it is off season.

Here we go again. Abigail looks like an Angel and well ,Gabbie, I wont say what she looks like.

Look at the birthday boy. So cute.

YAY!!!! Tinker Bell!!!!

Three Tinker Bells posing for a shot!!!
You can't be Tinker Bell if you don't have your hands on your hips..

It was a lot of work getting this shot. We could tell deep down he wanted to take a picture with Tinker Bell but he was acting MACHO
He looks happy to me??

This was in Hollywood Studios. Al just had to take this because of the name of the business.

"YOUSE GUYS MOYCHINDICE"

This was in the Honey I Shrunk the Kids play area. I thought this was soo cute. In the upper back is a garden hose with a sprayer attached.

Riding on an ant with an oatmeal creme cookie in the back ground.

We let Matthew choose the places he wanted to go since we had been to all of the parks. We visited Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios.

Worship Through Dance

2009-11-15T22:28:00.002-05:00

Abigail Starts Ballet

Abigail has been interested in ballet for a while and I found out about this program from a Mom at the YMCA where the kids go on Tuesday's. They center the dance time on Christ and they also have minimal cost for recitals. This was the first time she wore her new ballet attire. She was very excited. There is a recital in December and I will post pics.

Ring Bearer and Flower Girls

2009-08-15T12:13:00.011-04:00

The Wedding of Kyle and Jennifer McCracken

My cousin Kyle, his new bride Jennifer, and my little BIG brother Daniel.

Uh Oh!!!! Don't do that in public.

As soon as we arrived at the reception she was gone. It had been a very long and tiring day.

The wedding was right in the middle of her nap time.

Sleeping Beauty Awakens!!!

Time to have some fun and eat!!!

These are all photos of the kids after they were finished getting ready and now waiting for the pictures and photos.

Wouldn't be a picture of Matthew without on of his faces!!

Have to have a picture with everyone!!! Here we go!!!

My Grandmother

June 2009

2009-08-15T12:01:00.003-04:00

Just being us

Abigail likes for everyone to match sometimes. They are cute.

Matthew has now crossed over. In this photo he has lost one tooth but now he has actually lost two.

Matthew always makes the craziest faces.

Caught Brown Handed!!!!

I was wondering where Gabbie had gotten off to because I didn't hear her and you know something is up when that is the case.

This was an Egg and Diary free cake that I had cooked and we ate some for dinner and I guess she didn't get enough!!!!

To Egypt and The Park

2009-08-15T10:35:00.006-04:00

Visiting Ancient Egypt

We took a trip to see King Tut and some other Pharaohs from Egypt's Mighty Reign.
We could not take any photos inside of coarse. We really enjoyed being able to see in real life what we have been studying for the last year. We watched a short movie and in it they showed a picture of Ramses the Great and the Pharaoh that was over Egypt in the time of the Exodus!!!
How amazing it was to see the face that looked at Moses and defied God numerous times!!!
My friend Janice and her children: Jared, Jacob, Jenna, and Jada went with us and we had a great time. We did get a lot looks having 7 children and 2 adults.

A Trip to Piedmont Park in Downtown Atlanta

This park is amazingly beautiful. It reminds me of a miniature Central Park. There are no cars allowed in the park and it is very peaceful and clean, and it's in Downtown ATL!!

This is the play area for the children and it is NICE!!! All of the equipment sits on a solid rubber material. No splinters or sand in your shoes.

She's not getting out anytime soon. This would even be great for older handicapped children.

We took a picnic lunch and ate in the beautiful outdoors.

This is Abigail and her friend Jacob.

Here she go--------es!!!

How cool is this. I love our camera because when I press the button to take the the picture it actually takes it right then. What a concept!!!

We also saw a real duck egg in a nest.

Here are we have geese with their goslings. They were cute but they made a big mess on the sidewalks, if you know what I mean. We have to clean off the stroller wheels when we got back to the parking lot.

End of 2008-2009 School Year at the YMCA

2009-08-15T10:02:00.005-04:00

Celebrating our Accomplishments

Gabbie is displaying the line up for the events that will take place.

A talent show, concert, and graduation for Kindergartners.

Matthew is performing, with his music class, on the hand bells. They did a great job and Matthew loved this class. The main focus was on music appreciation and recognition.

Abigail and her music class are entering the "stage".Abigail enjoyed her music class as well. She learned how to play the recorder and worked very hard to memorize this piece. They played "The Corn Song" that has a fast tempo and a good many changes. It took a lot of practicing but she did it!!!

Abigail completed 1st grade and is now headed to 2nd grade.

Matthew McDuff graduated from Kindergarten!! And received a certificate of accomplishment and a stuffed bear. He was so cute in his cap and gown.

We can't leave out Gabbie who was soaking up the spot light looking so cute and posing

for the camera.

Celebrating Life May 2009

2009-08-15T09:56:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday DADDY!!!!

Comcast Cares Day

2009-08-15T09:35:00.002-04:00

Spring is here and it's time to clean

This year Comcast teamed up with Tennessee Aquarium to clean up the litter in the area surrounding the aquarium. This was the job for the younger children in the group. The adults cleaned up the water way that runs near I75 and Brainard Rd.

Everyone had a special Comcast Cares shirt, gloves to wear, and lots of energy. We had to be at the kickoff at 7:30 am on an April Saturday morning. That is early when you have 2 adults and 3 children to get dressed!!!!

Al and Gabbie were able to meet the CEO of Comcast, Brian Roberts, who flew from Philadelphia to take part in the kickoff. A really big privilege for Chattanooga because Comcast nationwide was all participating on the same day. Brian Roberts only attended 2 of the kickoffs, Chattanooga and Atlanta.

Easter 2009

2009-08-15T09:16:00.002-04:00

Happy Easter

March Madness

2009-08-14T14:54:00.002-04:00

Celebrating Life

My 33rd birthday was fun and full of laughing!!!Leave it to Matthew to pick the craziest card.

"Some Wisdom: They say that eating Chinese food on your birthday will bring you good luck......

So I'm making you "POO-POO" platter!!!

What can I say...He is BOY

If you can't tell we have a lot of leaves after they fall. We try to wait until they all fall off. Ha Ha. March will do.

Like I said the kids love to have their picture taken with a mess on their faces. That doesn't happen that often. HA HA HA. I would have one for everyday of their lives if I took a pic of every mess.

February 2009 Cute Pics of Kids

2009-08-13T21:05:00.005-04:00

This is February 2009. The pics are still cute even if they were taken 6 months ago!!!

We went to the IMAX and Childrens Discovery Museum with our friends the McMillans. Don't they all look so cute in their glasses.

I think the exibit up stairs was about the different houses around the world. They had stories for each home from a childs perspective. Very cute.

Kaylee, Abigail and Gabbie had a fun time in the drama room pretending to be Ballarinas.

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Silly Gabbie

These are SO funny. Gabbie just walked up to me and said,"Hat!"

How Funny is this. Bloomers for a hat. I guess anything can be a hat when you are 2.

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Snow in Tuscaloosa!!!

We were leaving Chattanooga headed for Tuscaloosa and were sad because the weather man said it was going to snow. We were going to miss it!!! It snows in Chattanooga about as much as it snows in Tuscaloosa.

Well what do you know....we brought the snow with us!!! Chattanooga didn't get any of it!!!

Notice the snow ball in mid-air at the top of the photo!!!!

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Celebrating in Tuscaloosa

While in Tuscaloosa we celebrated my birthday with family because we would not be back for a while.
My Sweet little chicks. They make life fun and interesting.

Gabrielle McDuff is sporting the amazing an sought after GLOW IN THE DARK hoop earings!!! They were purchased at the very exclusive boutique "DOLLAR TREE". Sorry but I think was the last pair. These were given by Abigail McDuff to her mother on her birthday!!!

Abigail McDuff is sporting the newest trend. Satin night pants and knee high boots, topped off with an oreo smile!!!

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Just Funny

The kids love to have their pictures taken and make crazy faces.

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Drum Role Please!!!

I think Gabbie was tired.

I stepped out of the kitchen for a few minutes and this is what I came back to.

Gabrielle's 2nd Birthday

2009-08-13T14:12:00.006-04:00

Happy Birthday To YOU!!

December 28, 2008 (yes I know)

This is my favorite photo!! Look at those cute little lips.

Time for presents!!

Chocolate Cake !!! YUM!! For her at least. It was egg, dairy and wheat free. Actually wasn't that bad so we froze it and thaw some out when we are having a dessert that has egg or dairy...what dessert doesn't?

Fall 2008

2009-01-17T16:31:00.008-05:00

Fall 2008

This year we have a better camera and so I didn't have a panic attack trying to take the photos this year. (Thanks Dad)

Yes I know that it is no longer Fall. What can I say....I am a busy mom. Sorry to you all that have been checking and haven't found anything new since OCTOBER!!!

This is were the difficultly comes in. Getting all three of them to smile or at least look cute at the same time.

I call this photo Article One:

This year Gabbie did have a leaf in her possession but at least she didn't eat it and throw up like last year.

Article Two:

At this point it is over.

Matthew's face says it all.

Gabbie can't stand to have anything on her feet so she is OUT!!!

Here is a close up of her "EEEOOOOOO!"

Case closed.

We did get some wonderful pictures and I will love to look back on the crazy ones just as much. Such is motherhood

Learning to Swim

2008-10-07T15:47:00.009-04:00

In late July Abigail and Matthew took swimming lessons at the Y. It was 30 minutes a day Monday through Thursday for 2 weeks. We also shared the pool with a water aerobics class. If you click on the photo you can see all of the older women. I think there might be one man. Ha Ha.

One of the moms and I were joking and commenting that this will be us years down the road.

Now getting to the part you are interested in.

The kids are hanging out with their instructor. On Abigail's back you can see the floats they use in teaching them. As they progress layers of the foam are taken off until it is just them and the water. They both took to the water wonderfully. Most of their comfort came from swimming in a friends pool a couple of times during the summer.At one time he instructed each of them to jump off the side of the pool. It did take a few seconds to gain the nerve but as you can see they did it. The swimmers would practice swimming using a flotation device that resembled a dumbbell with foam on each end. They would hold it with one hand and stroke with the other and then alternate. At the end of this lesson both Matthew and Abigail wanted to dive to the bottom and get a stick.
The instructor is helping Matthew get to the bottom...

And now back up again.
He did it!!!!!
Now it's Abigail's turn...

She did it!!!

One of the lessons was on how to fall out of a boat in a life jacket. This, for the kids, was the high light of the lessons. They loved it.

Matthew getting help with the life jacket.
Matthew and his partner in the boat.
Here.....We......GO!!!!

Now it is time for Abigail and her partner!!!
They can now safely fall out of a boat!!!! Ha!Ha!

They really did enjoy the lessons and learned A LOT. Abigail can now swim without a float and Matthew is almost there. They can also dive to the bottom of the shallow end without assistance. Swim on!!!

Fun at the YMCA

2008-10-07T14:57:00.007-04:00

The YMCA in our area just added a new play area for the kids. It is HUGE!! The kids love climbing, sliding and exploring.
They all had fun sliding down the "water" slide.

They also have a play area to the side for smaller children. Gabbie had fun in this area but she really wanted to be with Abigail and Matthew. There were too many older kids to let her have big girl fun. Oh well, she will be over there soon enough.

Gabbie aka Live Baby Doll

2008-10-07T14:33:00.004-04:00

Gabbie loves her sister and brother and she wants to be just like them. So, when she sees them dressing up, she has to dress up also. They decided to put Matthew's Buzz Lightyear dress up on her. She looks so cute and funny. I'm sure you can see how it swallows her.

She looks like a penguin. How can you not laugh.Next they decided to dress her in an outfit my aunt gave them. We have been waiting for her to grow big enough to wear it. This is a poodle costume.

See her little tail!!
If you look closely you can see the little black eyes and nose of the dog on top of her head.

Petting zoo and Emergency Vehicles

2008-09-01T14:19:00.011-04:00

We attended the grand opening of Ooltewah United Methodist's playground earlier this summer. The kids were able to explore some amazing emergency vehicles. As soon as the arrived I heard a helocopter in the sky. I had no idea it was going to land in the parking lot. How amazing it was to see it land and feel the air spinning around.

Matthew had so much fun climbing all around the Fire Engine and asking tones of questions.

This is a bomb squad vehicle. Pretty cool!!!

All of the kids were able to hold rabbits and chickens. We took Kaylee, one of Abigail and Matthews friend, along with us.

Gabbie had a fun time sliding on the new slide.

Cute Photos of Kids

2008-09-01T14:06:00.003-04:00

These are just a few cute photos that have been taken this summer.

4th of July

2008-09-01T11:33:00.004-04:00

On July 4th of this year we were in Tuscaloosa with family. We had a huge cookout and great fireworks. These are just a few pictures of the kids in their patriotic wear.

JFest 2008

2008-09-01T10:16:00.005-04:00

Bands took the stage early Saturday morning and played through til night. About 5000 people showed up and sang praises to God.

We packed a pallet and chairs and set out for a fun day. In the afternoon the sun was beating down on us, so we took shelter under a makeshift tent.

Gabbie stayed out of the sun under our shelter.

As it cooled off, Gabbie rambled to another families area and entered in to their play. They accepted her in and she had a blast.

Matthew found his way over and joined in also. Mercy Me took the stage around 8:00 p.m. and we went home to get some sleep.

Kidz Blitz

2008-06-29T20:49:00.010-04:00

Here they are, ready for a crazy night. Matthew is so afraid that the show is about to start that he couldn't concentrate on having his picture taken.
Everyone had to be involved and they wanted us to "Make some Noise"!!!!
These are all of the helpers and Mr. Kids Blitz. You can also see our new worship center.
The first event was stuffing the jump suit with as many balloons as possible. Blue Team won!!!!

This was so crazy seeing this 5 year old all blown up.

This was the green team. They did a great job.

The next event was the donut eating contest. The kids had to eat as much as they could without the donut breaking. The Green Team's donut broke so the Blue Team won!!

Now Ryan and Ashley, the team leaders, had to do the same challenge. But theirs was a little tricky.
They had to be on the the floor and blindfolded. CRAZY!!!!
Ryan ate to much and his broke.
Mr. Kidz Blitz asked if any husband wanted to volunteer his wife to come on stage and participate for the next event. No one knew what was coming. Our friend Kevin pointed out his wife Jessica, who by the way is 35 weeks pregnant, to come on stage. Then the guy said that since this is a family event, why don't we have the husbands come up as well. Kevin and Jessica have a 19 month old and she couldn't help so they had her niece and nephew come up and shave the cream from the water balloon. Everything was nice and clean until Ryan and Allison took an pin to the water balloon.
Kevin was soaked. This couldn't have happened to a better person. Kevin is such a crazy guy, he can take it.

Ryan and Ashley got "PUFFED" because they were disobedient. They were "not suppose to pop the balloons". I don't believe that one. This was hilarious.
This was the final bang. The toilet paper gun. Matthew is standing ready to pack the paper on his teammate
Off it goes into the air. The crowd had to pass it from the back to the front and pile it on the child on the stage. which ever team had the most paper won.

They are working hard to pile that paper on.
Blue team(our team) wins!!!!

This adventure was wonderful and a lot of fun. Christ was presented and everyone saw that this is one way you can have fun in church.

Gabbie's Braids

2008-06-29T20:31:00.002-04:00

Gabbie had her hair braided for the first time Wednesday night. It was a lot easier than I thought it would be. She sat still and did not fuss. She went to be right after and I was hoping it would stay beautiful. I don't have a photo of the out come. It was pretty crazy. I took it down that afternoon and she looked like she had just stuck her finger in a socket.
Can you believe she has this much hair?

Maybe I will do it again one morning so she can wear it all day.

Love you guys.

Popcicle Baby

2008-06-24T13:23:00.004-04:00

Gabbie had a popcicle and this is what we got.

Princess snaggle tooth

2008-06-24T13:08:00.003-04:00

Abigail lost her first upper tooth the night we came back from Tuscaloosa May 19th. The other one will be coming out soon. She is growing sooo fast. It's hard to remember her being Gabbie's size. She still wears glasses, just didn't have them on at this time.Abigail just finished Kindergarten and can't wait to start 1st grade. She loves reading and math. We have been going to the library and checking out books and she will get 6 or 7 and have them read in no time. She is a blessing and a wonderful sister.

Cute photos of kids

2008-06-24T11:51:00.012-04:00

This is a culmination of photos from this spring.

The girls are playing with a talking bear Gabbie received for Christmas. She loves it.

How cute is this little girl!!!!
I was taking photos of Abigail and Matthew outside and caught a little squabble. I don't know if you can see Abigail's frustration, but she doesn't want Matthew looking at the book.

Now this is handsome boy. And a little silly.

Matthew was sick one week and while riding in the car we gave him a bag just in case in got sick. When he got home he had to find some tape and it shocked us with what he did. I feel sorry for him even now as I look at the photo, but I have to say he was very inventive.

I handed Gabbie something to play with in the car to keep her quiet, not thinking anything would happen. You would think this being my third I would be smarter. I would have never handed Abigail or Matthew the box that contained my lipstick.

Okay, these are just hilarious!!!
These are photos from the week we were last in Tuscaloosa. The princesses are having a lot of fun at Caroline's house.

Joseph's Coat of Many Colors

2008-06-24T10:01:00.009-04:00

Earlier in the spring two mom friends of mine told me about a church in Ringgold, GA that had an interpretive dance class for home school girls and their moms. I didn't know if it was something that we wanted to do. I went the first time and found out it was very modest and professional. I thought it was wonderful!!!

We practiced for 8 weeks and for the first time they had a presentation for the public and a recital.

There were five different age groups of dancers and each studied their own dances. They all worked very hard and I was amazed at the performance.

Abigail loved it and so did I.

This is Joseph and his brothers after he received his coat from his father.

The music was from Joseph and his techno colored dream coat.

The dance had a lot of sign language in it. The words to Abigail's song:

"Joseph your coat has so many colors

bright as the sun at the noon of the day

when you wear your coat of Joseph

God will guide you on your way"

They would sign the words above and then as they sang the colors they held a hoop that had a rainbow of colors on it and circled Joseph.

The brothers throwing him in the well.

The moms were workers harvesting the wheat for the seven years of famine.

To end, everyone came back on stage and signed "Awesome God"

The awards ceremony was Friday night after the recital and most of the moms and girls were presented with flowers.

This whole experience was a blessing and we both had so much fun we will be doing it again next year.

Caterpiller Kid

2008-06-24T00:13:00.007-04:00

If you don't know already, Matthew LOVES caterpillers. Last year was the first year that he really showed interest in them. They collected a jar full of them and when I say full I mean FULL. There had to have been at least 30 in the jar. They fed them for a while and then I suggested they let them go. So the ones that where still alive would have a chance to become butterflies. They probably became bird food but we can hope.

So this year when we saw the first caterpiller and notified Matthew....

he came running. This is the photo of him finding out.

They were only allowed to collect a few this year.

Our yard is a breeding ground for caterpillers. You think I'm joking?!

I hope I didn't gross anyone out. These are just 3 on the areas where they hatched. I know of at least 2 more and who knows how many we couldn't see. They had fun while it lasted. I know they are looking forward to next spring.

Co-op and field trips

2008-06-23T21:19:00.010-04:00

Backward Day at CHE

This was taken earlier in the spring when Gabbie wasn't walking.

The kids clothes are backward, the chairs were backward. It was a lot of fun. We meet in the gym for announcements, singing and prayer. On this day Angie (our leader) showed a home move that she had made with her children who are older and some of the other older kids. It was all backward.

Class Photos

Matthews class had about 20 enrolled. Obviously not everyone showed up for picture day.

This is the Red Team. (1st and 2nd graders)
There were about 25 enrolled in her class. The two women on the end were the leaders of this class. Both Abigail and Matthew made friends with a brother and sister in this class.

Nicole is on the far left of the bottom row and Wesley is the fourth from the left in the middle row.

Chattanooga Zoo Field trip

They have a special class room at the zoo where they can have classes and let the kids pet some snakes and just get to see some things up close

This bird is just gorgeous. They have a mirror in front of it because it likes to look at itself. I can't remember what type of bird it is. I just had to put this in.

This is Nicole, Abigails friend. They were also in interpretive dance together.

Go Fly a Kite

2008-05-03T16:07:00.003-04:00

River Park Kite Flying Field Trip

Matthew and Daniel, a boy in Abigail's class.
Abigail trying to get the kite to stay up.
Go Mattie!!!

One of the playgrounds of this park is pictured in the background. There is a playground for small kids and another for bigger kids. They had a wonderful time.

It was a beautiful day but the wind wasn't constant. It was a little frustrating but they had fun and were able to experience flying a kite. They also got a good bit of exercise due to trying to keep the kite up.

This park is wonderful. It is one of many along the path that follows the river. We sometimes visit the snack area. It has wonderful food and ice cream too. The kids love that part.

Take Me Out to the Ball Park

2008-05-03T14:54:00.004-04:00

Chattanooga Lookouts

Lookouts VS Birmingham Barrons.

How funny is that.

We were able to sit in box seats that Comcast has for half the season. It was nice. Great seats but no free food. Oh well, we were grateful for the view.

Gabbie and Abigail watching the game. Gabbie was walking back and forth holding the rail. She had a blast.
Gabbie being Gabbie.

Isn't she cute.

Abigail posing for a photo op.

Gorgeous sunset.

We left before the game ended so I don't know who won, but we had a lot of fun!!!!

He Is RISEN

2008-04-06T21:13:00.008-04:00

Happy Easter

The McDuff Medley!!!

Aren't they the cutest kids

How CUTE is this!!!

Got to sit with the Bunny.

Last year was our first year to spend Christmas without family. It was not fun.

This year we desided to plan something. I cooked a ham, sweet potatoe casserole, green beans and Sister Schuburt rolls. We invited a couple that are also transplants and another friend from church. It felt good to be getting together with others on Easter. We have decide that we will do this every year.

The kids hunted eggs and had a lot of fun.

I have been having some problems with the video.

Oldies but Goodies

2008-02-23T01:01:00.004-05:00

These photos are ones that were taken the last part of 2007.

Just before Thanksgiving I decided I needed to take some pictures of the kids in the back yard while the color was still on the trees. I think I will set up a fund for a Cannon Rebel. I am surprised I still have hair after that. Very few of the photos show the faces of all the kids at the same time. Most that do have closed eyes, crazy faces, or blank stares. But the few times all six eyes met the camera, those are priceless. I was able to click through like a story book and see Gabbie holding the leaf, drawing the leaf close to her face, eating the leaf, and then expelling the leaf along with lunch. Oh the joys of picture day. Looking at these photos I'm sure you would have no idea what it took to get them. Please enjoy them!!!

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These were taken at the River Maze in Ocoee Tennessee. The co-op we are involved in took a field trip and the kids had a blast. Let me just say that corn mazes are not made for strollers. It was like a roller coaster for 10 month old Gabbie.

The kids road in a cow train that was pulled by a tractor. Abigail and Matthew are in the first cow.
After warning the kids about the fire ants, the farmer invited them to pick pumpkins. I think that was a record time for pumpkin picking.
In history we learned about Ancient Egypt. The kids made necklaces to look like those the Egyptians wore and I tore a sheet and applied eyeliner for a little more effect. I chose not to shave Matthew's head. I thought that might be going a little too far. But I think he has the look down pat. Don't you?
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Christmas 2007

No they are not candy canes nor did they didn't just brake out of elf jail.

I guess I forgot how crazy the fall pictures were. God must have a since of humor. I guess the only way I do crazy things like this is because I have momentary memory loss. At least this time there were no leaves involved.

One tradition we have is PJ's on Christmas Eve. I purchased these in September and as Christmas neared I realized I needed a photo for the December slot of the gift calenders I was making. I pulled the PJ's out and said,"Hey guys, guess what we get to do!" "Are those ours?" "No, we are just going to use them for pictures" They weren't theirs because I hadn't given them to them. They were technically mine. Anyway, we had another photo shoot and they were pleasantly surprised on Christmas Eve. I need a camera that takes 3 pictures a second. Santa didn't get my wish list.

No matter the trouble, I would do it over again and again to look back on these precious faces after these years are gone.

Love you all.

ALL TIED UP!!!

2008-02-23T00:47:00.002-05:00

Abigail has learned how to tie a shoe!! She was so excited we had to take a photo. She worked really hard to learn. Over a period of time she would try, not succeed and put it down. One day she picked up the shoe and tied it.

See Mommy, I DID IT!!!!

Okay. I had to put this on. It was too funny to pass up. I may have lost all modesty. I guess that's what kids do for you. Gabrielle came upon something and decided she had to put it on. This is her own doing. I will let you figure it out!!!

Butterflies and Penguins

2008-02-22T15:34:00.006-05:00

We were at the Aquarium last week and we had so much fun. Gabrielle was so interested in everything. I held her over the open water so she could see the sting rays, legs kicked and arms flew. She was so excited. I lowered her to the water and the splashed it with such excitement. She tried to touch a ray but we weren't fast enough.

We are in the butterfly house and I have a butterfly on my finger.
Now it is flying away and she was so excited!!!

Every time she saw a butterfly she would reach out. She touched a couple.
Next we went to see the penguins. The kids love this! This is the first trip that Gabbie has really taken notice of everything. How FUN!! She would beat on the glass with such excitement. The blur over Abigail is a penguin. They are sooo fast.
This is the coolest area of Penguin Rock. This semi-circle makes you feel as if you are in the water with the penguins. Can you tell they enjoyed themselves?

Gabbie is learning to walk

2008-01-31T15:48:00.000-05:00

These photos were taken on January 28th. Abigail brought out Gabrielle's walk behind toy and picked her up and was placing her behind it. I told Abigial that I had tried that a while back and Gabbie was not ready for it. I told her she would probably fall. But it was too late. She had already placed her behind it. And what would you know, she took off. She was so excited for herself. She began to clap for herself. I ran and got the video camera. She is really enjoying herself.Abigail and Matthew at the Creative Discovery Museum. They are dressed as woodland critters.Gabbie eating a banana. I couldn't resist putting these on.

Love you guys.

McDuff Medley

2008-01-28T15:49:00.000-05:00

I have been reading blogs of others that I know and decided to try it myself. I just thought this would be a good way of keeping everyone updated on how we are growing. Some that will read the contents may have already heard about certain things I will write and others may find it new to them because we haven't talked in a while. I hope to keep you all updated with photos and funny sayings from the kids (Matthew especially). ; ) I will try to add info as frequently as I can. We love you all and hope to get some feedback from you.

Angelica