THE PUGHS

Disney World 2012

2012-01-24T13:12:00.000-08:00

Pretty cold the first morning but it didn't take long to warm up after arriving at the Magic Kingdom to see the park opening.

Chef Mickey's the first night. Autograph books out and pen in hand ready to meet Mickey and the gang.
Even Daddy got in on the action. Goofy must be his favorite because he was in the picture with Goofy at the Tusker House too :)

Buzz Lightyear. First ride. Got us all in the mood.
Bell was Cole's absolute favorite; she is a princess and she wears yellow, who wouldn't love her! He loved meeting the pretty princesses. Our son was completely smitten by them.
Waiting for breakfast outside Hollywood and Vine at Hollywood Studios. We really loved it here. The Lion King and Nemo shows were amazing! Cole and Dax liked Star Wars and we were

We were fortunate to catch Rapunzel the last night we were there. We walked up just at the right time and were able to wait a few minutes to let the boys meet her.

January was a great time to go. We went with a great family and were able to run during the Marathon weekend as well. We did pretty much everything that we wanted to without having to wait in crazy long lines. Cole is a great age to go and managed each day without a nap while Owen, who loves his nap anyway, could have stood to go back to fairly good with a nap each day in my arms (not so great for me) allowing us to take advantage of everything. We loved breakfast at the Tusker House and of course my boys loved all the animals. This, fortunately, was the only place they really asked for anything. They asked each day when we can go back and Daddy responds with, "When Reese is your age!" Hopefully, it won't be that long.

2012-01-24T12:48:00.000-08:00

We did celebrate Christmas and enjoyed our time with family! It was nice to remember our Lord's birth, tell and retell the birth story and sing unto Him praises! The kids are blessed, we are blessed and we feel it each and everyday.
Christmas Eve at Granny's. My sisters have photos of Christmas Day since I obviously didn't bring my camera out for photos with all the cousins.I can't wait to print all our Christmas Eve pictures from years past and see what a difference there is. Dax and I swap presents each Christmas Eve with each other and our children now open PJs from us and then we take our annual Christmas Eve self-timer photo.

We were able to enjoy having Honey, Monts, Uncle Nint and Uncle Ty at home Christmas morning with biscuits and bacon to see what Santa brought before we all headed to church.

Reese Turns One

2012-01-24T12:05:00.000-08:00

We celebrated with a little party with close family and her friends for her birthday. It was sweet, simple and easy!

I am so far behind on posts but wanted to make sure that I caught the highpoints in our little ones' lives so with plenty of pictures to follow we will begin with Reese turning 1.

She weighed 18 pounds (5th %)

She was in the 25th % for height

She eats everything in sight! At 1 she was off the bottle and was drinking whole milk like a big girl and was eating only table food. She loves food and makes a constant noise the entire time she eats until she is satisfied (slightly annoying)

She began walking around 11 1/2 months and is basically running in circles now. She loves to be chased and will squint her nose up and close her eyes when she is being chased.

She still adores Owen and often grabs his hand when riding in the car. He is such a great big brother; constantly taking care of her and sharing his food with her. He loves her just as much as she loves him. Cole is always protective and doesn't want anyone to bother his sister I can only imagine what this means for Reese's future.

She loves for me to sing "Good Morning to You" and "This is the Day" when I wake her up in the mornings.

She loves to "Patty Cake" and sing "Wheels on the Bus". She does the round and round and swish swish swish motions.

She has gotten to be a "Mommy's Girl" and loves to give love and love on me when someone else (her Daddy) wants her :)

She brings so much joy to our lives and it is impossible to remember what it was like without our little girl. We thank you Father for blessing us and keeping us and pray that you will work wonders in little Reese's life and all that she does will bring honor and glory to You.

Seacrest Beach 2011

2011-09-02T09:02:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed another great year with some great friends at Seacrest Beach 2011. Lots of pictures from the beach, pool, eating out and having fun at Pier Park. We love going every year and can't wait to do it again. 30A is our favorite from the lack of people, riding bikes, eating Charlie's Donuts, Running through Alys Beach...we love it!

Owen celebrates being 3

2011-09-02T08:24:00.001-07:00

Owen celebrated with friends the weekend after he turned 3 with a Pirate Party. He and Tucker had a great time swimming and eating with great friends. Just a few photos below to recap our fun party.

Owen is such a big boy! He lights up my face constantly with his witty humor and contagious smile. He loves his brother and sister and will play for hours by himself. He is so good entertaining himself in his room with the horses, cows and fences and loves to color. He is now coloring in the lines and takes it very serious :)

Not a Baby for Long

2011-08-09T09:14:00.001-07:00

She is growing and moving and eating and growing...

We are not surprised that one of ours found their thumb since Dax and I both sucked our thumbs. I hate for her to do it because I know how difficult the habit will be to break but the fact that she soothes herself when still sleepy or a little cranky is really nice and let's admit it...she is really CUTE :)

First Day of School

2011-08-09T09:05:00.001-07:00

The boys started school on August 4th last week and were so excited to be back with their friends and meet new ones. We decided this year for Cole to attend K4 5 half days a week and Owen to attend 3 half days a week. They already love it and are learning learning learning. Owen is so hot and cold sometimes...He did NOT want me taking his picture at this moment...Big height difference but no weight difference between these two!

Owen turns 3

2011-08-09T08:46:00.000-07:00

Our middle child turned 3 on Sunday and what better way to celebrate your actual birthday with a "Rodeo" party. Owen loves everything rodeo right now and "rides" bucking bulls on a daily basis. We had Nana, Pops, Honey, Monts and Nint and Ty over for dinner and cupcakes. To say that Owen was ecstatic is an understatement. He loved every minute of it.

I can't believe that he is 3! It seems like yesterday I was traveling to Dothan for my 37 week check-up only to find out that I was in labor and had to head to the hospital. I remember settling for the night and waking early the next morning to prepare for his birth. He didn't wait around; the doctor broke my water around 8:30 and he was here by 11:20. He has been a constant joy to our family since that day. He and Cole are the best of friends and it melts my heart to see how they interact with each other. He is Reese's number one fan and constantly has to be next to her, touching her, kissing her. He loves her!

My Beautiful Daughter

2011-07-22T07:01:00.001-07:00

I am totally in love with her...

Looking back at June

2011-07-05T08:41:00.000-07:00

Looking back on June it seems as though it went by so fast. Where does time go the older you get. I never really understood or believed it when I used to hear that time went by faster the older you got but I see it now. It is like I blinked and Reese is becoming such a big girl. I should have remembered it and noticed it each day because it was the exact same way with her brothers but the every day life seems to get in the way I guess. June was full of 6 months check-ups, lots of playing, Father's Day, a 6 year anniversary and a whopping 10 year class reunion. This priss learned to crawl in June and is getting quicker each day. She weighed 14 pounds 5 ounces and was 25 inches long; both in the 25th percentile. She eats breakfast and dinner and still continues to get five 6 ounce bottles a day. She goes to bed around 7:30 and wakes around 7 each morning. She is a dream! We all love her so much and feel so blessed to have our Reesie Cup.Reese's two brothers are as silly as they come...this picture shows how they act most of the time.My two babies! Owen loves to cuddle with me and tell me he is my baby.We also learned to sit up unassisted! Cole wants to take pictures all the time. I was getting ready for work this morning when Owen ran to me and said, "Mommy, come here!" I ran in to see Cole holding Reese saying, "Take a picture!" I love these girls to pieces! We had such a GREAT time at our reunion and missed the others that couldn't be there. It is so hard to believe that we graduated 10 years ago and went our separate ways. We always pick up right where we left off!

We had a good turnout and enjoyed everyone that was there.

The Month of May for Us

2011-06-03T08:24:00.001-07:00

The month of May has come and gone so quickly! We can't believe it is June and we know it will fly by probably without us realizing it as well. The little girl is growing so fast. She will soon be 6 months old which is so hard to believe. She has 2 bottom teeth ( just like her brothers at this age), she rolls over and gets up on her knees to attempt to scoot. It will be interesting to see when she actually accomplishes crawling. May was spent enjoying family, being outside and a quick trip to the beach. My two red heads

Reese adores her brothers and has a hard time focusing on anything but them.
Her brothers share that same love for her.
The boys practicing their hand stands. I told Dax Owen is so strong that he can hold himself up.
Cole made this t-shirt for the end of school and it has all his classmates hand prints and names on it. He thoroughly enjoyed school this past year with Mrs. Jo and Miss Nikita. He learned lots and we look forward to preK next year.

The boys love the beach and would stay out there all day. They are at such a great age for us to be able to take them and not constantly have to see about them. This is Kady, Uncle Tyson's girlfriend, and one of the loves of Owen's life. We adore her so much that we had her tag along to the beach with us for a little reinforcement :)

This is the baby girl sunbathing in the shade!

The boys are together all the time and what one does the other does also.

When we aren't outside, we can be found inside farming. We travel to Spring Hill to cut hay and across the highway to pick peanuts. We can also be found driving to the pasture to check on cows. The boys love to farm in real life as well as pretend :)

Reese's Baby Dedication

2011-05-16T09:07:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Mother's Day this year with our little one's baby dedication. Dax and I have committed with each child to raise them according to God's word; striving to teach them the Truth and walking with them through this life. We are so very grateful for the family that made it celebrate with us and missed those that weren't there. This man is an amazing father, leader and husband. I am so thankful for him and enjoy watching him with our children.
This picture is good. Thanks to my sisters who got the kids together for a quick photo. This will have to be framed and sat on Dad's desk at the office. It is so funny to hear the comments people make when they come in and see photos of all the grands.

I am sure my sisters dealt with this mostly in trying to capture the photo above!

Honey and Nana came through with the food and everyone ate a belly full. Thanks both for preparing our lunch. We enjoyed this delicious coconut cake from Cakes by Joyce and I have to say that we typically don't eat cake after the first cutting but this one was gone in about 3 days because it was so good.
Our children are so very blessed to have 4 great grandparents still alive and able to celebrate with us with each occasion. These 4 set such a remarkable example to us and we can only pray that we live as long as they have according to God's word. And I will end with my precious middle child! He is such a ham...

We've been

2011-04-25T09:17:00.001-07:00

Celebrating the crucifixion, burial and RESURRECTION of our Lord and Savior...

Eating lunch at Granny's...

Posing for the camera...Seeing what filled our baskets...
Learning to take photos...

Hanging out at the beach with some sweet friends...The Nelsons

Tasting a little cereal for the first time...

Acting a little silly...
Playing a little t-ball for the Braves...

And snacking at the ballpark while big brother plays...

March

2011-03-31T07:49:00.000-07:00

Reese has become a thumb sucker. Not that I expected anything less since Dax and I both were thumb suckers. She will still use her pappy but buddy if it comes out the thumb goes in and she goes to town. You know you must need it when you have to hold it in your mouth with your other hand. She is growing so quickly. I have missed monthly posts because I am not very good at this blog thing but I will try to keep up for my memory sake. She will be four months soon and we head back to the doctor for a check-up. I will post after that.

The boys have enjoyed tent making in the living room and watching movies recently. They adore one another and play really well together until someone takes something from the other. :)

We lost two VERY special people

2011-03-31T07:08:00.001-07:00

It is so hard to imagine our lives moving forward; to a "new normal" if you must because a terrible tragedy struck our family March 7, 2011. A day that will never be forgotten; a day that changed us all forever; a day that took two precious people in our lives. We are comforted by our Father on a daily basis. He is our rock, He is our fortress, He is our strength when we couldn't possibly have anymore. He helps us rise in the morning and lay our heads at night. He is our Almighty, our ever present help in time of need. That is HIM! In Him alone we will battle through this as a family. You see Brittany and Shep touched many many lives through their incredibly short time here on earth. Brittany lived her life to the fullest and sweet little Shep was as content as could be following his sweet mommy. I remember the day Cole was born and Brittany, Clint and Tyson came to see us that night at the hospital. You could see in her eyes the adoration she had for our first born. Not long after that she became our Bit Bit and more recently Cole began calling her Aunt Brittany. We kept Honey and Monts on schedule with grandkids. Owen was 18 months after Cole and Shep followed 18 months after Owen. I kind of messed the next one up making Reese 11 months after Shep :) The night I went in to labor with Reese we talked back and forth. She wanted to know exactly what was going on; if and when she needed to come. After they broke my water she appeared with Honey and Monts. Never mind that it was already 8 o'clock at night and she would work the next day. She told me there was no way she was missing it. She was there for me; as a sister for me because none of mine could be there. See she did that for me often...she gave and sacrificed often for me and for my family. She loved my children as her own and for that I am forever grateful! Dax, the boys and I adored our sweet nephew Shep. We liked to call him Sheppy Shep since everyone in our family seems to get a nickname. We spent most Sunday lunches together at Honey and Monts and one of the last visions I have of Shep is him following Owen around. Owen had put on Brittany's shoes from church and was clonking around the kitchen and dining room. Shep followed close behind Owen and every time Owen stopped Shep would stop and stare at him. He had just started this; following every move Owen made. Cole treated Shep like another little brother. He was always very concerned about him often checking on him to make sure he was okay. When we told Cole and Owen about the accident and that Bit Bit and Shep were in heaven with Jesus Cole took it to heart. It was quite possibly the hardest thing Dax and I have ever experienced. Our little one's heart was so sad. He cried himself to sleep that night and Dax told him to pray; to ask God to give him strength to deal with this sad news. When I asked Cole why he was crying he proclaimed because I can't see Shep. Man, we will miss those Sundays with them. It was so nice to be able to call after work one day and say yall come for dinner. We enjoyed every time we were with them. We looked forward to other times with them too. We had already made our South Carolina trip plans, Opryland plans in December; plans on the boys being so close in high school and on and on. Just another reminder that His plans our not our plans nor His ways our ways. The night of the accident Dax went to Birmingham with his family while I stayed in Troy with our children; I didn't really have a choice. I would have given anything to go with them to see Shep one last time. I struggled with it for awhile until last night. I had a sweet dream; a dream that I didn't want to wake up from. You see, I dreamed that I got to hold my nephew one last time. It was great! I got to love on him and kiss those sweet cheeks one last time. I remember waking up to Dax's alarm this morning and wondering if I needed to write it down immediately because I don't ever remember my dreams. In fact, I had just talked with Kady, Tyson's girlfriend, about dreaming. We both wondered if we would dream about Brittany and Shep like others had and if we did what would they be about? I can honestly say that this has made an everlasting impact on so many. While we grieve with our lost we rejoice in our Savior for Brittany and Shep are in heaven. They are whole and not broken; they are worshiping our Savior constantly and filled with joy. A sweet smile comes across my face to think that Aunt Brittany met our little one that Dax and I lost before Cole was ever born. I can imagine her rocking our baby and Shep playing with his cousin just like he did here. We will forever remember them and our time together and forever remind our children of who they were. We will miss them dearly but we will forever be changed by them.

One of my favorites...

2011-02-25T06:53:00.000-08:00

Click above to see Bellamia. This shop has the most adorable things. I am not from Dothan but when I am down there I make sure to stop in. I just love all their items for girls and boys. You should check them out!

Baby Girl is 2 Months

2011-02-14T12:59:00.001-08:00

Reese went to the doctor last Wednesday for her 2 month check-up. She is doing great and growing like a weed. Things to remember about Reese...

- weighed 9 lbs 5 oz
- 21 3/4 inches long
- eating 4-5 ounces every 3-4 hours
- sleeping through the night (she typically gets her last bottle at 9 or 9:30 and then doesn't go to sleep until 10:30 or later and sleeps until 6)
- loves her pappy
- loves her swing
- loves her aquarium in her crib and hates when it cuts off
- loves to listen to her Praise Baby lullaby CD when she is in her room
- she smiles all the time
- responds with coos and little bird noises when talking to us

Cole is 4

2011-02-14T12:44:00.000-08:00

So very far behind that I am not really sure where to start...
I will at least post what I want to remember and add pictures later.
Cole turned 4 on January 10th and we celebrated with a fantastic party at our Rec Center in the gymnastics room. Cole doesn't even take gymnastics but this was absolutely perfect for him. He tends to be right by my side when trying something new or meeting someone he doesn't know but on this day he "let loose" and enjoyed being the spotlight for the day. He demonstrated all the activities before everyone else could start and he lit up when "Miss" Monica let him try everything. I am so thankful for this little guy! He melted our hearts four years ago when he entered this world and continues to fill my heart each day. Although he tries us on a daily even hourly basis sometimes he is so genuine and sweet - when he wants to be. :)

Facts about Cole...
- he loves all things farming
- he calls himself the "daddy" when Dax is away
- he adores his baby brother and sister
- he loves to take showers
- he will say, "Mom, it is Mama time!" where he proceeds to hug me and lay with me for a few minutes.
- he is such a big helper with getting things for Reese or showing Owen had to do things
- he loves to be outside
- he loves to read; at least 3 books at night - one of his favorites right now is Silly Sally
- he is obsessed with his Mission Friends teacher at church and his school teacher this year
- he continues to tell people that he will be 5 next year
- he is OBSESSED with the color yellow. (we have yellow shirts, underwear, cups, toothbrushes) we aren't sure where this came from but he makes it clear.
It is funny to hear him repeat things from school because we don't usually know what is going on. The other day he opened up and said "You get what you get and you don't get upset!" Well, that is what his teacher tells him when they get scissors at school. Why would he get upset? Well because he doesn't get a yellow pair every time :)
- he likes to say nursery rhymes and has for awhile now. He knows Humpty Dumpty, Hey Diddle Diddle, Little Miss Muffett, and Jack and Jill

WE ARE SO IN LOVE...

2011-01-10T11:15:00.000-08:00

with Reese and these amazing photos!

December 2010

2011-01-02T08:58:00.000-08:00

December proved to be busy for us with the early arrival of our daughter and Christmas but was packed full of memories that will always be cherished.
Reese came 3 weeks early just like her brother Owen and has been such a little blessing. The Lord gave us a great gift here at Christmas! Cole and Owen adore her and are such good big brothers to her; I hate to see what the future holds with their protection. She won't be able to get too far from them :)

We had a wonderful December and I will let the photos speak for themselves. Hope everyone had an amazing time with family and friends and best wishes for a wonderful new year!Honey and Monts with their 4th grandchild and 1st granddaughter.Nana and Pops are pros after 5 children and 8 grandchildren.I love this man so much more than I could have ever imagined. He is an amazing husband and father.A Pugh girl!I am so blessed with my husband and three amazing kids.I love this boy! It is crazy how you can love all your children with your whole heart! Each one is special in their own way.Owen loves his Reese. We hear numerous times a day, "I kiss her!".Aunt Sandra happened to be in Dothan and dropped by to see this sweetie. She is one of Dax's aunts that the children get their "red" hair from.Love these girls to pieces! I have been so blessed by them and are so thankful they are in my life. It is so great to know that I can trust them with anything. They have prayed and prayed for me and my family and for that I am forever grateful! They were so sweet to come see us in the hospital!Posing with sweet Reese before leaving the hospital.Reese went on her first outing when she was a week old. Of course, we had Christmas shopping to finish.So so hard to believe we have three children and that one of them is a little girl now.Reese ready for our Sunday School Christmas party.Scrub scrub...we had to give that hair a good washing.Reese getting her first real bath; December 23, 2010.Ever since Dax and I married we have exchanged family gifts on Christmas Eve night and taken a family photo. It is hard to believe we have grown to this in the last five years. What a blessing! Owen, Reese and Cole's Santa. They also got a swing set.Cole playing with the little tractors.Both the boys got more farm stuff. Owen loves putting the cows in the pen.

Owen enjoying his Thomas the Train scooter Nana and Pops gave him.

Uncle Tyson spoils the boys with exactly what they ask for. This year Cole requested a square baler.Reese 3 weeks old...bright eyed on New Year's Day

Reese Sanders Pugh

2010-12-10T12:35:00.000-08:00

Born December 9, 2010 at 9:29 pm weighing 6 pounds 7 ounces measuring 20 1/4 inches long. She has a head full of brownish blonde hair that some say look a little red in the light. We are already so in love and can't believe with actually have a Pugh girl!

The Story...I have been dilating since around 32 weeks and praying that I would hold as long as possible. My last post around 33 weeks asked for prayers to make it 4 more weeks and the Lord is so good; today is 4 weeks! I visited my doctor this past Tuesday and was around 3 1/2 almost 4 cm. The plan was to come back Monday and put me in for observation overnight and break my water Tuesday morning because we knew that I would be dilated enough to consider me in labor. Well, as much as I wanted my doctor to deliver Reese because I adore him that much I had to realize that I was being selfish and that I could possibly be in labor already. I debated back and forth whether or not to call the doctor yesterday and decided that I should make the call. Mom took me to Dothan yesterday afternoon; they monitored me in the office and decided that my contractions were the kind that bring a baby so they wheeled me to labor and delivery. I was admitted and an iv was started my my nurse, Julia, who by the way delivered Cole too. Dr. Butler came in around 4 and said that I was 4 1/2 cm and that we would wait and see. Julia didn't think I was going anywhere but we didn't tell Dax to leave work until around 5:30. We decided he should leave an hour early in the event that I stayed and they broke my water. Well, my water was broken after 7 and Dax and my Dad arrived after 8. I had just received my epidural before they got there and started feeling much better. Before the epidural it was pretty difficult to breath through the contractions. I don't remember them being as strong with the boys and let me just say I am proud of myself for dealing with them :) Everything went so fast after Dax got there. Julia checked me twice and said oh, it is go time. I told her I was glad she knew what she was doing because the baby could have been coming and I wouldn't have known it until it was too late. After 3 pushes our beautiful Reese was born. We can't thank the Lord enough for this sweet girl! And thank you all for your prayers and blessings!

33 Weeks

2010-11-12T13:40:00.000-08:00

Today I am 33 weeks pregnant. It seems like the end of this pregnancy is flying by. I have so much to do and it seems that we don't have very much time to do it. I had a check-up yesterday and after telling my fabulous doc that I know I sound crazy but I think I might be dilated already and after asking if I would "feel" better if he checked me; he realized I am already at 2! YIKES!!! Not good for a 33 week baby. He monitored my contractions and concluded that they are reactive but I am to see him next week. Pray Pray Pray that Reese stays put for at least 4 more weeks. We are not ready!

Baby Dinner

2010-10-20T07:35:00.001-07:00

I was so honored last night as a group of great women joined me for a small "Baby Dinner" to celebrate the arrival of Reese. We enjoyed appetizers, a meal, dessert, presents and more importantly a great time of fellowship. Reese received several things and we can't wait to get the nursery ready for her and put all her belongings where they go. Thank you so much for everything girls!These were the adorable favors and a thank you so the guest.It is truly a blessing to have such generous friends!Yummy cupcakes provided by Cakes by Joyce.An incredibly soft bib from Crystal and Ashlee along with that cute pink elephant and other things.This blanket from Karri is so sweet.Honey got Reese her first bracelet.Cathy Beckett, my second mama, gave her this adorable frame for her room.Mary Kay, a new friend of mine has a little business making these onesies and shirts. They are adorable and I am so grateful for her gift. I can't wait for Reese to wear it and the boots she gave her.My roommate from college, Brooke and her mom gave Reese this super soft elephant (Roll Tide) and paci clip. Dax has already told the boys that it was okay for Reese to say Roll Tide as long as they still say War Eagle.These are Aden & Anais swaddling blankets that I have been wanting. Do you see how thin they are...I can't wait to use them. Thanks Brooke.This is the back of a too cute outfit that my friend Amanda sent. It is so cute and will be adorable on Reese.Okay, I think this is one of my favorites! Leslie gave Reese this and it is going to match perfectly in her room. I can't wait to get everything ready! You know only 10 weeks until the due date...not much time.Thanks Kristy for this terry cloth outfit. I love it!

Whitney gave me this super soft onesie and the inch bug labels for Reese's bottles.

I can't say thank you enough for all of your generosity. There were several other gifts and Reese was spoiled last night. Thank you all for coming and making me feel so special it is great to have friends like all of you. Thank you Aunt Brittany for all your hard work and for being a wonderful host. I appreciate it so much!

Go Trojans!

2010-10-18T10:49:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed a football weekend at home with the Trojans. We are headed to Tuscaloosa for homecoming but with my pregnancy, the boys, and needing to be at a meeting at church we couldn't make it. We hated not to go; well, I should say I hated not to go but it just didn't work out this year. We were able to tailgate with some good friends around lunch, head home for naps and the back for the game with friends. Thanks Nelsons for the tickets! We enjoyed it as usual.

I love this picture! My three boys make my heart melt. It is going to be interesting adding Reese to the mix but we are all really anxious to meet her.

Hard to get a photo of my crew. Nelson boys were doing what they were suppose to and as usual mine would barely look. They all were sporting their eye blacks!

Annual Beach Trip

2010-10-15T12:45:00.000-07:00

The first of September we left for our annual beach trip with the Vaughans and Warrens. It is crazy to think that none of us have missed a year and this trip was our 5th time. We love this time and look forward to it every year. We don't waste any time and pack it full with trips to the beach, playing in the pool, riding bikes, eating out, going to Pier Park, shopping and lounging around. All the boys were at a good age this past year allowing them to play well and nap together. Thanks to the Daddies for hanging out at the house with them each afternoon.Owen digging in.

Cole enjoying the sand. Thankfully, neither of the boys have ever had issues with the sand.
We had a fabulous house this past year just a block from the large community pool. We love staying in Seacrest; the atmosphere is worth it.
La Cocina in Seacrest has become a favorite to eat at one night. I know you are probably thinking, "What?" "Mexican at the beach!" Let me tell you...it is good and in walking/riding distance. This is Pruitt and Cole waiting to go in to eat.

They really love each other. It brings joy to my heart to know that the Lord blessed us with them close in age to be the best of friends. My prayer is that they will always be there for each other and will hold each other accountable when they are older in their daily walk with the Lord. I pray that they encourage one another!
I added this picture because I think it is hilarious! I was sitting on the grass while Owen got out of the stroller. I told him to turn and look at Mommy and I got this pose?
They have the sweetest expressions to me here. They rode the train like big boys at Pier Park without Mommy this time. I was having some serious contractions and we soon left after this.It never failed; we woke up, ate breakfast, got ready for the pool and headed out each morning. We would get there and they immediately wanted something to eat? It must be something about vacation or the pool because no lie, it happened everyday! Owen was enjoying a fiber bar and lounging in the sun.

The annual crew's kids...Owen (2), Cole (3), Tucker (2), Pruitt (3), Miles (1), and Clark (3)

Sand Angel

A little bit of crab hunting. And when I say a little I mean it. Cole talked about going from the day we got there but when it came time to do it he was scared to death. Dax and I think that he didn't like not being able to see really.

What we have been up to

2010-10-15T12:00:00.000-07:00

Things are trucking along at our house with the boys in school, me and Dax working, church, weekends, sickness. It is hard to keep up. I realize a whole month and a half have passed without a single post. We have had several things going on just in our daily life; plenty to blog about just haven't done it.

We have approximately 11 weeks left until little Reese joins our family and there has been and still is plenty to do. You will see below my nights after work have consisted of going through clothes passed down from my sisters girls and washing. I haven't gotten around to ironing just yet :) Dax helped me hang up some of the dresses the other night out of the washing machine and I handed him a slip and said this goes under that little gown. He replied, "Oh no, this is going to be a lot worse than the boys." I just laughed. I am afraid our world is about to be turned upside down - even though I came from nothing but girls.This is one of many many piles. I just went ahead and pulled out all of them instead of only getting the newborn stuff. This means I have got to get Owen's clothes moved to his and Cole's room so that Sissy's can go in her closest and dresser.
Plenty to wear; don't you think? Some of these dresses include things worn by my sisters and me. It is funny to see them and think about a photo we have in them. It will be sweet to see Reese in them; especially because both boys have worn outfits of Dax's when he was little. Well, as you can see I broke down and gave in to Cole's request and constant begging of an Auburn shirt. I picked these up in TJ Maxx and they haven't taken them off. I am such a good sport! Aren't I? I will admit that they know that I say Roll Tide, they will know I graduated from there and they will go to Alabama football games. We typically go up for homecoming and Dax is a good sport about it then. It is funny because this is exactly how his (Dax's) family grew up. Mrs. Kathy graduated from Alabama, wears her Bama gear and tells the boys she says Roll Tide! We all laugh about it often. Dax took this picture and told the boys to stand like that. I will tell you that they haven't taken them off since Wednesday night :)

We have also suffered another ear infection with little O. Tubes are still in obviously because gook has dripped from his left ear for several days now. We are on antibiotic, ear drops and rounds of breathing treatments. Seems to be helping and he is on the road to recovery. I on the other hand have come down with a cold and as usual it seems ten times worse pregnant. My throat is raw, the eyes are burning, draining in my ears and stuffy nose...sounds like fun, uhhh? Hopefully, this will pass in a few days and I will be feeling better. List is made and there is lots of checking off to be done in a few short weeks.

Conversations with Cole

2010-08-16T10:31:00.001-07:00

There is much baby talk around our house with the arrival of our baby girl approaching rather quickly it seems so Cole joins in most of the time. This morning on the way to get Angela Cole asked me if I was in Nana's tummy when I was a baby. The conversation proceeded as such...

Me: I was Cole. Just like you were in my tummy when you were a baby.
Cole: Who is Daddy's mama?
Me: Honey
Cole: He was in her tummy?
Me: Yep! When he was a baby he was in her tummy.
Cole: Oh!, well you can drive.
Me: Yes Cole, we can drive. We grew up and now we are your Mommy and Daddy.
Cole: Why?
Me: Because God made me your mommy. One day you will grow up and will be able to drive and you will be a Daddy.
Cole: And somebody will have to buy me big boots.
Me: Do what? Yes, someone will have to buy you big boots because you will be grown up.

With all the baby talk we have decided on a name for our girl. Believe me after much deliberation and back and forth and back and forth we both agree on Reese Sanders Pugh. We will call her Reese. The boys will call her Sissy according to Cole.

The 5th Graham pledges Alpha Gam

2010-08-16T09:45:00.000-07:00

Alex, our baby, is now at the University of Alabama starting her college career. I can't believe that Mom and Dad are empty nesters! My poor father has been paying for college since 1995 when Hope went and hasn't stopped yet :) My parents have provided so much for us all of our life but this is probably the thing I am most grateful for - a college education - debt free. It made getting married that much better knowing that Dax and I would be married with no college loans to pay back. Anyway, Alex moved into Tutwiler August 8th and started Rush August 9th. I can attest that she wasn't a big fan of the Rush process but she pulled through and pledged Alpha Gam. I was able to go up and surprise her Saturday night at her pref party - I don't think she needed me but it was a good excuse to see her and the house. So much has changed in the 5 short years I have been gone. We ate dinner together in the pouring rain - any of you who know anything about Tuscaloosa knows that it floods all the time there, especially around Tutwiler. Well, Alex got to see it. Cars were flooded everywhere and the roads were feet deep around the stadium. We enjoyed pasta from Depalmas and then Brooke and I headed back to Birmingham for the night. My mom and other sisters were able to make it for Bid Day and welcome the newest Alpha Gam to the family. I tell everyone all the time that I didn't pledge Alpha Gam because of Hope and Joy but it was an added perk. Had I not liked Alpha Gam at Alabama I would have pledged something else; they just happened to pick a good sorority. I think it is so neat to say that we are a family of Alpha Gams and Alex was a 5 time legacy! Bid Day was crazy - people were everywhere. Quota this year was 84 so imagine the chaos of 150 + members on the front lawn, the 84 new girls, their families and the random fraternity boys. People were everywhere, it was hot and we stayed long enough for some photos and to speak. Their pledge class left that afternoon for Pledge Retreat in Gulf Shores. I can't imagine a place big enough to hold 84+ girls. AGD Recruitment Chair and President running with the new members. No other sororities were running to the houses and I couldn't understand. I know there are people everywhere but we have always run with excitement!Alex mixed in with new pledge sisters. It is always neat to see who your closest friends are.Alex with sweet Lissa Handley. She is a Sophomore and was my liaison all week. I had never met her but she was great to be able to talk with.

I remember that feeling of "knowing" the new girls and being so happy that they ended up on your lawn. All of them were so incredibly nice to Alex and we couldn't be more appreciative of that.

Mom (Gamma Sigma '10), Joy (Gamma Sigma '99), Hope (Psi '95), Alex (Psi '10), Me (Psi '01), and Meggan (Psi ' 06)

Hope's girls...can't wait to see if they live and breathe Alpha Gam too! Aliee is already preparing her stays in the Alpha Gam house with Alex.

Celebrating with a Carwash

2010-08-10T07:43:00.000-07:00

Saturday, August 7th Owen turned 2. I can't believe it has been two years since he came into our lives. He has added so much and we are so blessed to have this sweet firey red head to call ours. We celebrated in the hot hot weather with a carwash. It couldn't have been more perfect! The kids had a great time playing in the water, with the bubbles and just cooling off while we all burned up. Thanks to everyone for celebrating with us and making this a great birthday for our Owen.

I loved this cake. Teresa did a great job.

The kids would drive their toys through the carwash and bubbles.

Sweet Caroline, our neighbor.

It took Owen a little while to warm up to it but once he did he played and played.

This is Will Walker. Hannah and I are cousins and grew up together. I am so happy that Owen and Will be friends too.

Cute little Alliee Booth

This is Carter Rhodes. He was such a champ. He typically doesn't like the water but he played this time.

This is cute little Georgia Claire Rhodes. She plays so good.

Even cousin Shep took a turn going through the carwash.

The Vaughan boys enjoying their lunch.

Uncle Tyson helped Owen play a little baseball.

Owen got a kitchen for his birthday and enjoys cooking so much. He has always loved the ones at church and at Nana's so this was perfect for our house.

We went to see Dr. Roy yesterday for Owen's 2 year check up and everything looks good. He weighed 26.6 lbs (25%) and was 33 inches tall (25%). As big as we thought he was it turns out that he is just average. He talks all the time and can say anything you want him to. He loves horses, balls and cooking. He is very versatile :) He doesn't quite understand that there is a baby coming but he will tell anyone that he is having a sister. He adores Cole and repeats everything he says and does; which isn't always a good thing.

Well, we are having...

2010-08-03T12:28:00.001-07:00

The boy Pugh streak has come to an end! We will add a little GIRL in December. We can hardly believe it. The ultrasound went great this morning and she looks perfect. The ultrasound tech said she was an active little thing. I guess I need to get use to saying "the kids" instead of "the boys." It will be pretty interesting around our house at first adjusting to a little girl but I have a feeling it won't take long and I know that the boys in her life will adore her.

First Day of School

2010-08-03T11:53:00.000-07:00

Cole has been attending Mother's Day Out for the past two years at our church. He has been going 2 half days just to get some interaction with others and some learning in his system. It was interesting when we first started because he cried every time I dropped him off anywhere; whether it be the church nursery, to stay with Angela - the lady that keeps the boys at home, or school. That lasted a couple of months and he was always fine not long after but it never failed; tears came everytime. I have also had to carry him in everyday for the past two years. But not this morning! Praise the Lord my son has gained a little independence. With my growing belly it is getting harder to tote him around; not to mention he is almost 4 and need not be toted like he is.

We went to open house last night for him and Owen to meet their teachers and see their classrooms. We started Owen this year also. He needs some interaction and serious learning as well. Cole has moved to 3 half days and Owen will go 2 half days. I could not have been more proud of my boys this morning. Cole woke up bright and early around 5:45 - Dax said he must have been excited! We made it out the door on time and they both ran into their room for breakfast with no tears and no complaining. I love that they can do it but it makes me realize they are not babies any longer and are growing so quickly before my eyes.

Heres to the first day of school for Cole and Owen!

We returned from the beach again

2010-07-16T08:31:00.000-07:00

We returned Monday afternoon from another great beach trip; this time with our good friends', the Vakakes. Brooke and I met my freshman year in college when I roomed with one of her friends from high school. She came down to check on her after moving in and we have been great friends ever since. Even though we haven't lived in the same town since college graduation we talk all the time and make it a point to see each other often. We were invited to tag along on their family beach trip last year and again this year. We enjoyed it and enjoyed spending time with them. We headed out Friday after work and after what seemed like a long drive we pulled up to The Caribe, our condo where Brooke's room mom offered her condo for us to stay. It was great; plenty of space and kid friendly.We did a lot of this since the pool was a zero entrance edge pool. It was great for the boys to play and come in and out without us worrying about them falling on steps or having to be right beside them. I love this curly red head. His hair is unruly at times; as you will see below, but so sweet when the humidity kinks his curls :)

Daddy had as much fun as the boys. Dax is an active person so sitting still...laying out...doesn't quite cut it for this crowd. Cole enjoyed going down with Dax!
I think this is the only family photo we have.

Despite his red cheeks he didn't get burned. They are from being in the sand at LuLu's for 2 hours while we waited to eat dinner Saturday night. I will say that the boys were great! I didn't think we would ever make it that long; however, we didn't even stay to eat. After they told us it would be an hour and 45 minute wait and we waited 2 hours we called it a night and headed through McDonald's drive thru for the boys, Shrimp Basket for Dax and to the condo for this tired mommy. I had half a banana sandwich :)
This is what I am talking about! The wind had blown Owen's hair everywhere and I obviously was no where in site to straighten it.
Last year I ordered the boys matching Crab shirts for our trip so this year Brooke ordered from Smitten&Co. these adorable submarine shirts. I thought they looked so cute but getting a cute picture is a little harder to do.

I can't believe this sweet little one will be 2 in a few short weeks and will be the "middle" child before we know it.
He amazes me everyday with his knowledge, vocabulary and his genuine sweetness. He is my love! He tells me often that he loves me, thanks me for dinner (the few times I cook these days), and tells me he likes what I am wearing. I love that he is aware of things around him and feels free to comment on them. I think I was worried having boys would mean they acted tough all the time, didn't show their Mama any love - complete opposite from my world with girls, but they prove me wrong on a daily basis. I love my boys so much and thank God for giving us boys to raise to be Godly men. Owen (2 in August), Cole (3.5), and Will (18 months)

2010-06-22T09:48:00.000-07:00

I just remembered I never shared these photos and I thought they were too cute not to share. This was Cole's Halloween outfit from this past year that he WOULDN'T wear. He likes to put it on every now and then and pretend.

Does he look strong? Like he can protect you?

Graham Family Beach Trip

2010-06-22T09:11:00.000-07:00

Let me preface this by saying we haven't been on a full family vacation in probably 5 years and a lot can change in 4 years. We have added husbands, graduated from high school and college and added 5 grandkids in the past 4 years. With 17 of us and counting it is obviously difficult to get us all together, especially for a vacation but with Alex graduating from CHHS the end of May we decided to get it together and make a quick trip to the beach with everyone for Memorial Day. We had a great time as always and got to do lots. The kids got to hang out at Pier Park, bungee, rock climb, ride trains, eat ice cream and just have fun together. We enjoyed great weather, great food and even snuck in family photos take by candacenelsonphotography.com

She and David did an amazing job as usual and we will cherish the photos for years to come.

Nana, Addison and Hope waiting for dinner.

Graham showing his skills.
Aliee loved this. She did it twice during the weekend.Of course, Cole loved the train so we all jumped on for a quick ride. This was the first of probably 5 or 6 rides during the weekend for Cole. He can't get enough of it.

Aunt Alex shared her candy apple with Owen who loved it if you can't tell. He also loved Aunt Hope.

Having fun in the sand with Daddy. He spent most of his time doing this. I am so glad the boys don't mind the sand.

Owen showing off in the pool. He loves to swim and is fearless. He wouldn't put his swimmies on one time so Dax just let him swim because Owen wouldn't have it any other way. So proud of himself.

This one right here...he won't swim at all. But this won't be the case for long. He is taking swimming lessons this week and is doing a great job!

You see this picture is no different than most; Cole isn't really in it. That is how he is 99% of the time. And Owen wouldn't get out of the water so we told him to just float in front :)

Uncle Larry and Aunt Cheryl's

2010-06-22T08:29:00.000-07:00

For the past 3 years we have gone to visit Dax's aunt and uncle in South Carolina. They live on Lake Keowee and are so hospitable every time we come. We love our time with them and our time away. We finally figured out a good traveling schedule to be able to enjoy our time fully. We left Thursday after work a couple of weeks ago and drove straight there. That allowed us to have 2 full days with them relaxing and catching up and then traveled home early Sunday morning. Aunt Cheryl relaxing while we all froze our tails off at the waterfalls.Uncle Larry just happened to not have his swimsuit on at the time. He must have known how cold the water was. Clint had already jumped in to head to the rocks.

I can't even begin to tell you how cold this rushing water was and how slippery those rocks were.Clint and Brittany - they did so good - this was the first time to sleep sweet baby Shep.If you don't know or can't tell from the photo - baby number 3 is due on my birthday - Dec. 31st.We missed you Tyson! It just isn't the same without you.

The boys perfected their skiing skills and Clint worked on gliding into the dock.

It was a great weekend and as usual we can't thank them enough for allowing us to visit each year. I only wish we could do it more often! Thanks Larry and Cheryl.

Geogia Aquarium

2010-06-22T07:58:00.000-07:00

We recently ventured to Atlanta, Georgia with the boys in tow to visit the Georgia Aquarium. It was a long day, leaving at 5:30 and coming home that afternoon but well worth it for the experience. Cole is the perfect age to go and he enjoyed it the most out of everyone. Owen, poor thing, was so tired from getting up early that he just wanted his Daddy to hold him. He liked seeing the fish too just not near as much as Cole Man. We met Brooke, John and Will around 10:30 and explored the exhibits for a couple of hours until we had made our way through everything. We then headed to the Varsity for lunch and then home. It was a great day with the family and our friends!It is impossible to get a picture of them both looking.

"Bruce" as Cole likes to say.

Will is telling Cole all about it.

I didn't take many photos of the fish, or I should say many didn't really turn out, but this is a turkey zebra fish - or something like that.

This wasn't long after being there but you can see how tired Owen is. They both fell asleep right when we got to Atlanta and had a short nap until we parked and got out.

Cole couldn't decide if he wanted to touch the stingrays or not. He, of course, did much better with Dax. I don't know what it is but he just gets so scared when I have him.

The scuba divers were in one of the tanks when we first got there and Cole thought it was the coolest thing ever.
Time to go!

One more AGD

2010-04-26T11:55:00.001-07:00

After having 4 daughters pledge Alpha Gam and one that hopefully will in the fall it is only right to be one yourself. My mom has assisted with whatever we needed her to do with Alpha Gam. When I was at Alabama and Rush Chair she came to my rescue, when I was President and needed her again she came through. Not that I expect anything different, because she always comes through. I have gotten involved with the Troy Chapter and an alumnae initiation was mentioned for 3 women. Susan Peirce did a wonderful job getting it all together and a special thanks to the chapter for taking part in initiation. We were honored to initiate mom into Alpha Gam this past Sunday at Troy which is where she graduate from. All four of us were able to be there and it was a special time for mom.

Meggan (Psi '06), Me (Psi '01), Mom (Gamma Sigma '10), Hope (Psi '95), Joy (Gamma Sigma ' 99)

Candace Nelson and Mindy Carter's mom, Deborah Carter was initiated and Jessica Rowell was initiated. Each initiate had a tie to Alpha Gam in some way.

Easter Day

2010-04-06T12:49:00.001-07:00

The Easter Bunny was good to the boys. Cole received a couple of Veggie Tale movies, some books; Jonah and Joseph 's Coat of Many Colors, a hoe, a rake and work gloves. Owen got crayons, a floor coloring mat, Flinstone vitamins and a Wheels on the Bus book. Dax and I had signed up for breakfast for Sunday School this past Sunday so I was in the kitchen trying to prepare when Cole walked around the corner carrying his work gloves. He was so proud of them! I asked him what he had and he said Diego Work Gloves! The bunny brought them but I didn't see him. For those that don't know; Cole cares nothing for Santa, The Easter Bunny and I am sure will cry at the thought of the Tooth Fairy.

Owen was saying CHEEEEEESE
He looks so grown with his hair cut.

Cole practicing for Mama

We have to hold Owen back to snap any picture these days. They are good only when he is in the mood.

Two of my sisters; Alex the baby and Meggan

Cole, Addison, Graham, Aliee and Owen

A Fishing We Will Go

2010-04-06T12:43:00.000-07:00

Fishing photos below from this past Saturday. Both the boys had a great time watching everyone else fish. I know soon they will want to do it themselves. We enjoyed having our cousins in town to spend this time with us. We love some Chance. This is my baby sister's boyfriend who we adore...every single one of us.
Aliee is so good with Owen. She watches over him constantly! She reminds me of her Mama :)

The most important statement you will ever here...

2010-04-05T08:22:00.000-07:00

HE IS NOT HERE FOR HE IS RISEN!

We had a great Easter Weekend spent hunting eggs, fishing with cousins, seeing what the bunny brought and reflecting why we celebrate Easter. We have been able to talk with Cole about the true reason for celebration and the greatest sacrifice that was ever made. We enjoyed a wonderful church service yesterday; from the incredible music we sang to the sermon that was preached. Brother Luke emphasized that in our world today there are 2 billion people who have never heard the good news. That is alarming and such a reality check. It is evident that I need to focus on the greatest commission ever given to me and strive daily to share the word with those I come in contact with. It is heartbreaking to think that 2 billion people on this earth could die today not knowing what the Lord did for them. I pray that we all reflect on this statement and think about what we will do to change this. Below are pictures from our weekend.

This is how we started our Saturday. Fighting Mama because they didn't want a picture taken. It is almost impossible to take a picture with both of them cooperating.

Owen eventually got out of Honey's arms to try his hand in picking up eggs.

My next task is to get this pappy taken away from him. I know that is has everything to do with me and that it really isn't as hard as I think but at the moment it keeps him quite. So selfish I know.

Addison helped Owen put eggs in his basket.

They are such a mess together and I can't figure out which one talks the most!

Cole got excited to find the eggs after we hid them for the third time. You see, neither one of the boys wanted to pick them up so we picked up a few and put in their baskets and after all the other children cleared out they decided they wanted to hunt the eggs. So, we took the few that we had, hid them and they found them. This sums it up! The boys don't ever want to take a picture and smile like Mommy would like. Caroline was so good! She didn't start crying until she looked at my two screaming. Caroline is our new neighbor and we adore her. The boys love having her around.

Enjoying Cheetos while we watched the puppets.

This little monkey had to have his Cheetos too! Rotten, I tell you!

Cole, Graham, Addison, Aliee and Owen enjoying the puppets. Mom had Hope's kids over the weekend while she and David were on their trip.Cousin Shep even came to the egg hunt and puppet show. This is the best we could do!

After our Prayers

2010-03-30T12:51:00.000-07:00

Last night after we read "The Good Samaritan" and said our prayers Cole told me he wanted to meet God and go to Heaven, then he wanted me to sing "Deep and Wide." I sang it several times and began to sing something else when he stopped me and said...
Cole: Hey, Momma don't sing. Do they have snacks in Heaven?
Me: I am sure they do Cole.
Cole: Do they have Cheese-its, and Goldfish, and cookies, and pineapple...
Me: I don't know Cole.
Cole: looking up towards heaven, "God, do you have Cheese-its, and cookies and Goldfish and pineapple? No pineapple? Okay. Momma, God says he has Cheese its, cookies and Goldfish.
Me: Good Cole.
Cole: Are there beds in heaven? Why can't I come back if I go to heaven?

We are constantly having conversations like this. I thought it was adorable to hear him talking with God; even if it was about snacks in heaven.

Planting Potatoes

2010-03-22T08:12:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a great weekend. The weather was perfect on Saturday; perfect for planting. Honey and Monts had plans to plant their potatoes this past weekend so they asked if the boys could come help. Well, sure they could. They had a great time and it was evident that Owen loved it just as much as Cole. I love the fact that the boys get to experience these type of days with grandparents. After they were done they came home for lunch, naps and of course, some planting at our house. It was killing Dax not to have something planted so he made us a couple of raised beds in the backyard for some small vegetables and herbs. We had a great time doing them as well and look forward to seeing them grow. They are positioned right outside our kitchen window so we can look at them daily while we are eating.Borrowing Brother's tractor. My little Red Head Hauling HayThe boys love the "big" tractorCole shared his time with Monts with Owen. This is so big of him.In the back of the truck with the hay.Hard working manFollowing Montsgetting the potatoes ready

Covering the potatoes

playing in the dirt

Zoo

2010-03-16T13:00:00.000-07:00

Joy and the girls were coming this way for Spring Break so we met in Montgomery to take the kiddos to the zoo. I looked at the weather and saw that the forecast called for rain after lunch; well, when I drove into Montgomery around 9:45 the rain was coming down. It let up enough for us to get in the gates and then sprinkled just a little bit longer. Everyone had a great time!This type of monkey was so funny! She had a baby on her when we walked up but I guess we scared it because it ran off and she came to the window to socialize. The kids didn't know what to think. Well, Owen did...RUN!Owen thought he was as big as Ella Joy and Cole. He had to be right there with them.Nana pointing out the baby giraffes and zebras running.This is a good as it gets...Cole looking goofy and Ella tickled. I think they were laughing because I told them to say pickle.Terrible of all 3 but the only one I have.They really wanted to see the lions.
I thought the bald eagle was so pretty. Cole of course had to throw out "War Eagle!"

On the way home from church...

2010-03-15T11:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we left church to head home and change clothes and eat. I try to always ask Cole what he learned during Sunday School to see if he remembers anything. Yesterday, he went into his actual class (this is huge for us because he would rather be with Cha Cha, Mr. John and Mrs. Alithia and the 1 -2 year olds). Miss Christy had reminded us to bring an animal to class since they were learning about God's creations. So Cole went freely to Miss Christy with his snake in tow. After class I asked him what he learned and he told me that God made the ducks :) He then proceeded to ask me questions...the conversation went like this.

Cole: what happened with Jesus?
Me: what do you mean?
Cole: you know! he went to the ceiling.
Me: what Cole? I don't know that I understand you.
Cole: you know, Nana tells me that is how we know it is Easter.
Me: Oh, you mean Jesus was crucified on the cross and died.
Cole: I don't want him to die. I want him back.
Me: Cole, baby, that was God's plan for Jesus to die for our sins and then he was raised from the dead and lives in our hearts.
Cole: Why?
Me: so we can have Jesus in our hearts and live in Heaven one day with God if we choose to. Don't you want to live with God one day? Mommy and Daddy do.
Cole: I do. How can God hold all of us?
Me: Cole, God has really big arms to hold all of his children.

I love that his mind is always working. He asks so many questions and at times this drives me absolutely crazy but it is questions like these that bring joy to my heart because I know that my children are constantly hearing about our Lord, Jesus Christ and what He did for us. I pray that there are many more questions to come.

2010-02-17T06:56:00.000-08:00

Just like most of Alabama we experienced our first snow of the year and the most snow that I can remember in a long time. To say that Cole loved it is and understatement. He woke Friday morning wanting to go outside to play. I had to come in to work since weather conditions such as these aren't great for the insurance business but his Daddy came home around 11 to play. They loaded up and took Angela home and headed to Honey and Monts'. She has all the pictures of the snowman they built as well as pictures of Owen. They played for a little bit and then I got off work because of the roads and headed to Dax's parents'. Owen didn't care too much for the snow pelting him in the face nor the dogs all over him so we headed inside to warm up. We left Honey's to go home for naps but, of course, Cole was not having anything to do with a nap and insisted that he needed to play in "his" snow, so Dax put Owen down and the three of us headed back outside. It was so beautiful but I am glad we don't experience constantly like the people up north.

I had just thrown a snowball and hit Cole in the mouth. Ooops! Mom didn't mean to.
Tess loved the snow and couldn't get enough playtime in with Cole.

I was so impressed that Cole knew how to make a snow angel. That is one of the first things he did when he got outside.

Dad joined in the fun as well.
We measured because we are dorks like that. 4 inches around 2:30 so by that night it was close to 5 inches.
I love this photo! Very few times do I get a "real" smile from this one.
Trompin through the snow!

It just kept coming down!

FBC Upward Season

2010-02-04T07:26:00.000-08:00

Our church's Upward season is in full swing and Dax is coaching kindergarten this year. We are up bright and early every Saturday morning since his games are at 8:30. The boys love it and look forward to it every weekend. We love being a part of this ministry and look forward to serving for many more years.

Cole had a Tonsilectomy and Adenoidectomy

2010-02-04T07:12:00.000-08:00

Can you see them? His big ol'tonsils...Well, he had them and his adenoids removed yesterday. He did so well. They gave him some anxiety medicine prior to surgery so he would be more willing to go with the nurse and let me tell you; it worked! He didn't want anyone near him when we first got there and by the time he was headed to surgery he went freely. Dr. McQueen said surgery went great and only lasted about 20 minutes. He said they were huge! After getting him back from recovery we headed home. He slept off and on for most of the day and ate applesauce, cookies and spaghettios. I was amazed at how much he did eat for us. I am hoping that this continues and we don't end up with him dehydrated.

Owen's first "Real" Haircut

2010-02-04T07:04:00.000-08:00

I have been trimming Owen's hair myself since September or October but because of his curls just decided to have his first professional cut the other week. Here are some sweet photos of him letting Mrs. Shirley give him a trim.

Cole celebrates at School

2010-01-19T07:31:00.001-08:00

Although I have someone that keeps the boys at home Cole goes to our church's Mother's Day Out program 2 half days a week. He enjoys being around his friends and teachers. I have never really seen his class in action due to work so I thought it would be nice to have pizza and cookies for Cole's birthday. I think they enjoyed it!Miss Jamie and Miss Kelly with ColeFingerlicking good
Getting ready to sing their prayer

We have a new nephew!

2010-01-19T06:50:00.000-08:00

Baby Shep has been born and we couldn't be more excited. Brittany and Clint went to the hospital yesterday morning around 4:00 and 14 hours later had their son in their arms. We went down after work to wait on his arrival and get a peek at our nephew. Brittany, Shep and Clint are doing great! He was born at 8:05 weighing 7 pounds 6 ounces measuring 20 inches long. He has a head full of blonde hair. The boys were super excited and Cole can't wait for baby Shep to come to his house. Proud ParentsCan you see Cole's excitement!
All the Pugh boys!

Cole's 3 year check-up

2010-01-18T08:52:00.000-08:00

We recently changed pediatricians and couldn't be happier. Cole did amazingly well at his 3 year check-up allowing the doctor to ask questions, look in his ears, eyes, nose and throat as well as taking deep breaths for him. To my surprise Cole left the visit with an antibiotic, a nebulizer for breathing treatments, singulair and a referral to the ENT for his tonsils and adenoids. My poor child has been congested for a few weeks but I would have never believed he needed all of this. Since a baby, Cole would throw up anytime he was sick and still continues to do so - large tonsils. He snores terribly at night - enlarged adenoids, has a hard time breathing while eating resulting in eating so slowly. He was in his regular 2-3% for weight weighing 25.4 pounds and was in the 25th percentile for height measuring 3 feet exactly. We will see the ENT on the 28th and then go back to the pediatrician on the 8th of February. I can't wait to see what all we find out about Owen at his 18 month check-up.

Cole's Birthday Surprise

2010-01-11T10:03:00.001-08:00

Yesterday our first born turned 3. It is so hard to believe that 3 years ago he came into this world as a tiny baby who depended on us for everything and today he tries to be as independent as he can. Wow! The years have flown by but it is so very hard to remember our life without him. He can make Dax and I so mad and 2 seconds later melt our hearts and make us laugh uncontrollably. He is so strong-willed yet so vulnerable, he is so harsh yet so incredibly sweet, he is so independent yet so dependent. We loved him from the minute we saw him and that love grows more and more each day. We had his actual birthday party early because of our Upward season beginning at church so yesterday when he woke up to us telling him "Happy Birthday" he was rather confused. We did celebrate at my parent's house since it happened to be Aunt Meg's birthday too! Mom cooked and we brought a cookie cake - I just knew Cole would eat this since he loves cookies; wrong...he didn't like it either. (Mom called to tell me that Cole won the Birthday Cake from Dairy Queen this morning - she always calls them in. We are shooting for him eating the ice cream cake since he loves ice cream. If not we are out of luck with the cakes.)

Then Honey, Monts and Uncle Ty brought his birthday surprise over after naps. Cole was so excited he could hardly stand it. He has his very own tractor - radio and all. Of course, he rode for a minute inside then Dax took it to the garage after Owen went to sleep so Cole could ride a little bit more. Thanks Honey, Monts and Uncle Ty!

Farmer Cole is ready for work

Our First Troy Basketball Game

2010-01-04T12:04:00.000-08:00

Dax and I used Mom and Dad's tickets Saturday night to take Cole to the men's basketball game at Troy. Dax and I both remember going when we were much younger. It was the "cool" thing to do. Neither one of us have been since middle school or early high school - which is sad because we enjoyed it.We thought we would treat Cole since he has taken an interest in basketball. Cole loved it! He was so good the entire time; especially since it was nearing way past bedtime.However, with only 9 minutes left in the game, Cole was over it. He proclaimed he wanted to go home. We didn't fight with him but Dax did tell him when we got in the car that you are suppose to stay for the whole game. Of course, it was followed with a "Why?" I think his reasoning for wanting to go was because he wanted to play basketball and he knew he couldn't at the game.

A Shared Birthday Party

2010-01-04T11:26:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday we had Cole's 3rd birthday party. Since Upward begins this weekend we knew that the first Saturday in January was our only chance at using the Family Life Center at the church so we booked it and started planning. When we first told the news that we were expecting Cole our friends Matt and Amanda came by to let us know their news. Cole was due on the 17th and Pruitt wasn't due until February but both came early making them 11 days apart. Matt and Dax grew up together sharing only 10 days between their births so we found it funny that Cole and Pruitt would have 11 days between them. Then it became odd that Tucker and Owen would have 13 days between them. We joke that if one is pregnant then so is the other. It has been fun seeing the boys grow especially since they are so close together. This year we decided that a joint party would be the way to go so the invitations were sent, the cake and pizza were ordered and the bouncer was set up. To say that they enjoyed themselves is an understatement. Cole wouldn't even blow out his candles because he wanted to play. Thank you to all who joined us and made Cole's 3rd birthday party one to remember.I can't believe 3 years have passed since I had this little man. He loves me and I sure do love him! Great cake from Teresa's Cake Design - she matched the invitationThe boys doing a little wrestling. Cole, Pruitt and Jackson Booth - all their daddies graduated high school together

Shooting a little b-ball with Nint and TyCole with Nana

Enjoying his drumset that the Vaugahan's so graciously gave...he hasn't quit playing yet

Our New Baby Calf

2009-12-29T10:40:00.000-08:00

Cole is so proud of his Daddy's new calf. It is our first for the season and Dax happened to be present when the mama was having him. He came home and told Cole about it and Cole has told everyone since, "My Daddy has a new baby calf and he is tiiiiiny!" We took the boys over to feed the cows some hay the other night which Cole always loves. Owen didn't care too much for it but enjoyed being warm in the truck!

Christmas in Pictures

2009-12-28T14:33:00.000-08:00

We had a good Christmas and are blessed that our Father gave us Jesus as baby in the manger to fulfill his plan and take Him to the cross as a man. We spent Christmas with family; leaving our house on Christmas Eve at 7:30 that morning only to return at 7:30 that night. Breakfast was with my dad's mom - Grandma. This use to be a tradition but went away for awhile so we decided to do it again. I have always enjoyed breakfast at her house. It brings back childhood memories of grits and eggs with a baby fork, sitting on pillows at her bar. We then headed to the Pollard's for lunch with Dax's mom's side of the family. Dax's oldest cousin has a son and daughter - we loved the fact that Cole and Owen played so well with them. Our traditional family photo from there house is below. Cole got a John Deere puzzle that he loved and Owen got some great blocks. Both boys received something for savings! We are grateful. We left there and head to my Granny's - mom's mom for presents, church and dinner. Neither of the boys had naps and it began to show. Cole fell asleep in church with some pretty loud snoring while Owen played and laughed. It was nice to be in Church as a family as always. The boys both got an outfit from Granny - pants and cute sweaters. We ate dinner and headed for home so the boys could get to bed but we did open a few presents at our house. Dax and I have always exchanged gifts on Christmas Eve and we opted for no difference this year. The boys opened their gift from Angela - the sitter and husband and I opened ours from each other. Husband did very good getting me a great purse while he received a peacoat. I am sure he was real pleased :) We headed for bed so Santa could visit our sleeping children while Mom and Dad prepared for the next day. We woke our sleeping children with a Merry Christmas followed by Cole's response, "Did Santa come?" They were happy to see their new things, played a bit and called for Honey and Monts to come see. The Pughs came for breakfast and gift exchanging then we headed to Nana and Pops'. Honey and Monts were good to the boys. Cole received new Johnny Poppers (boots), a tractor, a bush hog, a basketball, and a jacket. Owen got his own barn, a jacket, a book, and a basketball. Clint and Brittany gave Cole a Melissa and Doug ice cream set and pizza set and Owen a Megablock dump truck. Ty gave Cole a spreader and Owen some clothes. The boys really racked up. The cousins played while waiting on Aunt Joy and her crowd to arrive and then we all exchanged gifts. Cole received a football uniform with helmet from Nana and Pops and Owen got a Megablock table. Both the boys loved them. After lunch we headed home for much needed naps since we had dinner at the Pughs that night. I had my family over for chili on Saturday and we ended our Christmas celebration with a photo of all the grands - 7 and counting.Uncle D and Graham Cousins minus Ella Joy and Maggie Kate - they were down yet
Owen having a go at the puzzle
Cole loving his John Deere tractor puzzle

Annual Pugh photo LtoR - Tyson, Brittany, Clint, Monts, Honey, Cole, Me, Owen and Dax
Graham checking out what Cole got

Owen taking a peek
My Cuties
Opening gifts from Angela

We always take a photo before bed on Christmas Eve. Self-timer issues made this one not so great.

The boys Santa

Cole - microphone, guitar, duffel bag, football, football gloves, water boots, clothes

Owen - v-tech giraffe, doodle pro, soccer ball, duffel bag, puzzles, clothes, clipo blocks and both boys got the table and chairs

Honey and Monts with their boys
Owen with his Pops - they are so much a like

Cole sporting his gear
Aliee (7), Maggie Kate (2 months), Addison (2), Ella Joy (2), Cole (2), Graham (5), and Owen (1)

Round 2 with Santa

2009-12-22T08:26:00.001-08:00

Our local bank in Brundidge where I work offered visits and photos with Santa. (had I known we wouldn't have ventured to Prattville in the pouring rain a few weeks ago) Anyway, Cole was extremely hesitant but after much persuasion with his lovey he gave in. Owen, however, wasn't giving in to anything. He screamed his little head off but I was successful in getting a great picture with Santa - minus me!

Another funny Night

2009-12-16T09:40:00.000-08:00

We (Dax) has to entertain Owen so that I can clip his fingernails all the time. He hates it so much that Dax tries to distract him while I am doing it. This was the result last night. Daddy's are so funny.

Ho Ho Ho! Merry Christmas!

2009-12-15T09:34:00.000-08:00

Well, after all the talk with Cole about visiting Santa and being a "big boy" we ventured out in the torrential down pour to Bass Pro Shops in Prattville. Dax and I have been wanting to take the boys for a while because we knew they would love it so this gave us the opportunity. Cole kept telling us that he wanted to see a big ole' turtle in the fish tank. We told him we didn't know if there would be a turtle but that there would be plenty of fish to see and there were. He loved it! He has talked about the water fall that came down into the tank with fish. He is still so animated and uses his facial expressions to get his point across. Back to Santa, we had talked about it with Cole because he has cried the past 2 years so we wanted him to be prepared this year. He would tell me each week that he wouldn't cry next week so when Saturday came and he found out we were going he said he didn't want to. I guess Dax and I didn't think about Owen pitching a fit. We get there, I beeline for the line to see Santa and allow Dax to walk around with the boys. The wait wasn't terrible (30 minutes) but it was moving quickly because the printer was messed up so you couldn't get your pictures that night but could email the store and they would mail them to you. Cole has a hold on Grits - our family elf and Dax is holding Owen. I place Cole in Santa's lap and to my surprise he did it! He actually sat there without CRYING! This is huge! Well, Dax looked at me and asked what to do with Owen. I said put him on the other knee. Not going to happen. Owen starting wailing and Santa wouldn't hold him so if I wanted a picture with boy boys for us to have for their baby books that meant I was getting in the picture. I haven't gotten mine in for the store but you can see from here what they will look like. I guess we will work on Owen next year!

Meet Grits...the Pugh Family elf. He came from Santa's workshop to watch my two little boys. Cole was scared at first but has warmed up to him as long as Grits doesn't talk to him. ;) I have explained to Cole that Grits is solely watching him and only talking to Santa. Let's hope he helps with our behavior.

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

2009-12-10T12:12:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year when we celebrate our dear Savior's birth, the journey of Mary and Joseph, the angel, the wisemen. It is a beautiful time of year. Some of you know that I co-teach our two year olds Mission Friend class at church. Last night we focused on the holy family and how special they are. I tried to instill in them who Jesus is, who His mother and earthly father was in the short time we had. They would repeat and then I would ask again. I find it soooo important for our children, as well as us, to know the true meaning of Christmas. My family has always experienced Santa Claus but we have always been taught the true meaning as well. We are looking forward to spending time with our family and friends, being blessed each day and celebrating Christmas with those who we love. We hope that you know the holy family, our Lord and Savior and what they went through for us.I love my Willow Tree Nativity set that my sweet in-laws gave me last year. It is so special to me. We enjoy discussing it with the boys and hearing the questions they come up with.Cole and Owen both get as close to the tree as they can without seeing punishment. Cole loves to turn the lights on and check to see if it needs water. I have tried to explain that is a Daddy job but he insists! My cuties who have stolen my heart! I love them both so much (even when they are driving me crazy)! Two clean boys watching Mickey Mouse Christmas - they are obsessed with it which is great for Mom while trying to cook dinner.

A Glimpse of Us in the Mornings

2009-12-10T12:02:00.000-08:00

This is what my crew looks like in the mornings...pjs, messed up hair, hungry, thirsty...Excuse the wide angle and the awfully dirty dishwasher. I need to clean all those prints off only for them to put them right back on it right?!

Cole never wants to pose and Owen sits to say cheese...literally. He thinks he will get a piece of cheese probably ;)

Many, many thanks to Pops for the camera. I am loving it and will figure out how to really use it one day.

Annual Thanksgiving Hunt

2009-12-01T09:16:00.000-08:00

Aunt Meg with her boys.Owen is still drooling like no other - can't you tell? and Cole is rotten!

What a wonderful thanksgiving we had. We have so much to be thankful for; not just this time of year but all year long. One thing I am thankful for is family and leaving in the same town. Because we live in the same town as our parents and grandparents we get to see them more often and do things we might not do if we lived elsewhere. We are fortunate enough to get to see everyone during the holidays and not feel overwhelmed with traveling.

My father has gone squirrel hunting every Thanksgiving morning with some of his cousins, uncles and my Granddaddy. I have ventured to go once and knew that once was good enough for me. This year Dax took a reluctant Cole but when I called to check on him Dax said he was doing great! Several of the men meet up, shake vines, holler a little and shoot down squirrels...if they are lucky. Uncle Rayvon, Uncle Thomas, Cole and the dead squirrel

Cole holding one of the squirrels for Pops to snap a quick pic.

My Little Pumpkins

2009-10-22T09:26:00.000-07:00

Since I didn't get to take photos at the pumpkin patch of the boys in their pumpkin shirts we decided to take a few at home. One of Hope's friends in Tuscumbia did them for me and I couldn't be happier with how they turned out; so so cute! The boys are super silly and love each other so much. Owen has definitely started following Cole around and copying everything he does.
This makes me smile. They got so tickled at each other.

Family Day at Dream Field Farms

2009-10-22T08:13:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday we loaded the boys up and headed to Dream Field Farms for an exciting fall day. Yes, it was freezing but Dax and I both agreed that it was better than it being hot. It actually was warmer at 9 when we got there than it was at 11:30 when we left. We caravaned with the Vaughans and Booths behind us to enjoy a day at the Pumpkin Patch with 6 kids in tow. The night before we told Cole that if he went to sleep when he woke up we would go; that being said, he headed off to bed to awake in the morning all excited and ready to go. We had yet to take Cole to a pumpkin patch in prior years just because - bad parents, I know. He had a great time at this one. They had a bounce house, huge slide and obstacle course, corn maze, hay maze, cow train, pig races, feathered friends, Maybell the milk cow, goats, donkeys, hayrides and pumpkins. Both the boys enjoyed it and all the running around they could do. You can tell from my previous post that Cole loves anything to do with farming so you know that the first thing out of his mouth when he saw the tractors was, "I need to drive that tractor." I told him he couldn't so he said, "I need Daddy to drive it!" He truly believes that all farm equipment belongs to him. Karri made the comment when we were on the hayride that it is funny to think that some of the people there had never been on hay before or weren't accustomed to the "farm life." I told her that it is different to think about people that aren't use to it, especially since it is something that we are so use to. We loved spending the morning as a family and having our friends there as well. We headed home around lunch since Daddy was leaving for the Auburn game that afternoon. Enjoy the photos!Family trying to stay warm. The wind was blowing and the sun wasn't in sight.Owen liked the squealing pigs...He kept calling them pup pup. Nope buddy, definitely not a pup pup.Coleman had to check out the pumpkin patch...I will give it to them; they planted pumpkins and had the vines but Daddy told us that they bought all the pumpkins and put them out. He had wondered what it would be like since he knows from experience that pumpkins are hard to grow in these parts. To the naked eye (mine) you wouldn't know the difference.Jackson and Cole enjoying the huge hay bales.Cole wouldn't go down with out Dax!Daddy joined in on the fun taking the boys down the slide. Owen loved falling down in the bounce house.Cole took a second to give me a smile. It is funny because he is not extremely fond of bounce houses unless he is the only one in them.Jackson Booth (3), Owen (1), Cole (2) and Pruitt Vaughan (2) - Allie was in her stroller all bundled up and Tucker didn't want to pose for us.

I think they are so cute! They had pumpkin shirts on but it was too cold to take their hoodies off :(

Updates

2009-10-16T08:09:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since I posted any updates on the boys and since I am terrible at doing their baby books I thought I should post on the blog.

Cole is fastly approaching 3 which is so hard to believe. We look back over the past 2 1/2 years and are amazed at how incredibly blessed we are. The Lord is truely amazing. Cole is still attending Mothers Day Out at FBC on Tuesday and Thursday mornings until lunch. Nana graciously picks him up each week for me to take him home to stay with Angela. We still pick Angela up each morning to stay at the house with the boys and then take her home each afternoon. Cole is very knowledgeable as to where Angela lives, when she is coming and when she is going home. Cole loves anything and everything that has to do with farming. He has a tractor, a hay baler, a wagon and has even managed to let Honey allow him to bring home Uncle Tyson's plow. He plays with these toys daily; it is great to see his imagination sore. I love listening to him in his room talk of baling his hay or feeding his cows because it reminds me of how vulnerable he is to learning. He picks up on stuff that I never thought he would. He thoroughly enjoys playing football with his Daddy; while Dax is looking forward to the day when Cole can actually catch. Dax works with him each day on keeping his eye on the ball and catching it. He is getting better. He has learned to "spike" it after scoring and is the cutest thing you have ever seen running the ball and warming up. He has been to "big" church twice this past month on Sunday nights and has done fairly well only getting up once for the potty. Fortunately, Brother Luke has small children so he doesn't hold it against us. The other night in church Cole was coloring when he drew a circle and whispered to me that he made a circle. I was so shocked. I didn't even know he knew how to do that. I was so proud of him! I look forward to him learning lots and remembering things.

Owen is still our little red head. He gets in to anything and everything. He loves his pappy and blankies. When I go in his room to get him up in the mornings he flops around in the bed and then proceeds to pick up all his blankets waiting for me to pick him up. We, Cole and I, love opening his door and singing to him each morning. We always sing "Good Morning to You" and "This is the Day." Owen smiles so big at Cole each morning it melts my heart. He really loves his big brother and misses him each day that he is gone. I love that they will grow closer the older they get and that they will always be best of friends. When Owen turned one we had him down to one bottle a day; at night. He has now been off the bottle and formula for a couple of weeks and seems to be fine; however, this little stinker will not drink milk. It is the craziest thing I have ever seen, especially since Cole loves milk. I still attempt milk every once in awhile but he usually takes one sip and then hands the cup back to me. Last week I purchased chocolate milk thinking he would drink it...nope, notta. Took one sip and handed it back. We give him cheese, yogurt and orange juice with calcium and vitamin d to supplement what he is missing in milk. I know he will be fine I just wish he would drink milk for my sanity. Owen loves, loves loves Angela. She and his Daddy are his two favorite people. He says "hey" immediately after Angela opens the door to her house to leave each morning all the while smiling and talking until she gets in the car. I am so glad that my boys like Angela and that she is good to them. We have really been blessed with her.Owen still loves any kind of ball. He enjoys playing outside with Daddy and Cole trying to act as big as Cole. Both the boys thrive outside! Owen has really started saying more words lately. He loves to say Georgia and will repeat it over and over again if she is sitting at the front door looking in. He wants us to acknowledge that she is there and that he knows it. He can say kitty cat, thank you, amen (he is so cute saying his blessing before eating), dog, ball, juice, cup, and pappy. He has a mouth full of teeth - so many that I told Dax about a month ago that I thought he must be cutting more teeth. I stuck my finger in to feel him gums, when I looked at Dax and said he already has them on both sides. It happened so fast I guess I completely missed them coming in. He is growing so fast.

Dax and I love our boys so deeply. We wonder at times what we did when we didn't have them. We have trying times with both of them; times of frustration because they don't listen and times of anger because they pitch a fit but despite those "hard" times there are so so many great times. They make us laugh and smile each day. I have had a conviction lately that I am not instilling God's word in Cole well. I am failing at living it out day to day and having constant conversation with him about what our Father did for us as well as Jesus's love for him. I have looked at a couple of websites lately that have memory verses coordinating with the alphabet. It is my goal to start it with Cole not for the satisfactory feeling that he will recognize his ABC's or that he can recite a verse but with hope that he will hide these words in his heart and remember them when he is older. We are in church constantly yet I don't want Cole to always have the "sunday school" answer. It is so easy to spit out what you know is right but not the truth. I feel that if Cole learns this at an early age it will only help him when is older. I really want Cole and Owen to grow to be men of God just as their father is with a heart for the Lord.

Potty Trained!!!!

2009-09-23T11:31:00.000-07:00

This little guy has grown up so fast! I picked him up from school the week before we left for the beach and Miss Kelly informed me that he had been in the same pull up all day! We have "worked" on potty training for a few months now but not strenuously. Cole would use the potty when he wanted to and wouldn't when he didn't want to. (He is very stubborn) That week he wore his "big boys" during the day with only 1 accident. I had been saying that if I could spend a few days with him (longer than the weekend) I thought he would get it. Well, he got it! He wore them the whole time at the beach and even became "fully" potty trained while there. I thought it would take for ever for him to poop on the potty but he did it once and we haven't had any trouble since! I am so proud of him. He lights up my life and brings so much joy to me. What a blessing he is from the Lord.

How grown up does he look in the picture above? He was talking to his cousin Ella Joy and I had to beg for him to give me the phone!

The Pugh, Vaughan & Warren Annual Beach Trip

2009-09-23T10:13:00.000-07:00

For the fourth year now we have traveled to Florida for family vacation with The Vaughans and Warrens. We started our annual beach trip without children which has now led to a total of 6 boys 2 and under. We normally go in April or May but due to Miles Warren's arrival date we pushes our trip back to September and stayed the whole week. It was beautiful despite the forecast for rain everyday; allowing us to enjoy outside time on the beach, by the pool and at Pier Park. We had a great time with everyone and I think the boys enjoyed it. After returning home Cole said he wanted to go back to the beach house.We made it to church on Sunday to realize that we tripled their normal nursery attendance. Although there was hesitation by the parents on how they would do, they do great! However, the picture before was another story. Apparently Cole didn't want his picture taken but none the less...they are in order by birth. Cole (2), Pruitt Vaughan (2), Clark Warren (2), Tucker Vaughan (1), Owen (1), and Miles Warren (5 months)The boys had a great time together...even if they did fight over toys! Can you see the beautiful water behind them? It was perfect and not too cold. We loved going this time of year.Owen and Daddy ready for the beach. We spent a lot of time lubing up; we didn't want this redhead to burn :)This little stinker wouldn't put a float on to save his life. So what did he do? Played on the steps!A little Mom and Owen time is rare unless Dax isn't around. I am sure he is trying to get out of my arms to get to Dax here.We had dinner at Crab Trap after an afternoon of shopping. The food was delicious and the scenery was spectacular.Obviously, Owen had no problem with the sand. The only problem had was by Dax and me trying to keep it out of his eyes and mouth. We weren't always so successful.Owen did a lot of this...EATING that is. This boy can eat; whether we were at the pool, beach or house he wanted to eat.We did A LOT of this. The house we rented came with four bikes so every day Dax took Cole for multiple bike rides. Owen even tested the waters with a couple. Both the boys absolutely loved it.Can you tell Cole didn't want to get down? He held on to our shirts for dear life. However, he still talks about "those crabs going in the holes."The boys had a blast crab hunting the last night. Owen was so tired he just had to go on to sleep. You should have seen Dax trying to catch crabs with Owen in his arms.

A great time was had by all. Dax and I are quick to tell people that it was no vacation with all the boys. We spent few hours outside since they needed to nap. We know that trips will get easier however, the older they get. Right now mine can't go napless but I know when they are older we will be able to let them play for hours and not worry what time it is. We loved where we stayed (Seacrest Beach) and loved the house we were in (only about 20 feet from the pool).

Our Recent KimBox Session

2009-09-17T12:53:00.001-07:00

I have been an avid user of Kim Box Photography since the birth of Cole. I have purchase the baby collection with both of my boys and couldn't be happier with each session. We recently had Owen's one year session; however, they are so good to allow me to include Cole ,Dax and I in a few. These are just a couple of my purchase but the others are being framed. If you do not currently have a photographer might I suggest Kim Box. They are great to work with and oh so understanding. Believe me, I don't know how these pictures turned out so good because if you had talked with me afterwards you would know that Owen (who never pitches a fit the way he did) cried the entire time. Thank you Candace for being so patient with us and for capturing some great pictures of my boys.

I love this one...and the scan doesn't do it justice. The coloring turned out bad when I scanned it in. Compliments of Kim Box Photography

This is Cole and boy is it him! He has this expression most of the time; his bottom lip drawn in a little. He did amazing oddly enough because he normally despises the camera. Compliments of Kim Box Photography.

Outside Fun

2009-09-04T10:07:00.000-07:00

Dax has been working on our deck for a little while. The baby pool ended up out back and caught lots of rain that poured down. We walked out to show Honey and Monts and it didn't take 2 seconds for the boys to end up in the pool.

My Two Cuties

2009-09-04T10:05:00.001-07:00

Both my boys love sitting on the couch. Of course, it is a game to Owen...he stands up and I look at him and say sit down. He squats down only to stand up again. They are precious to me!

Oak Park

2009-09-04T10:00:00.000-07:00

There is a new subdivision being built in Troy close to our house. The first thing completed was a park area for residents. Others had told me that they took their kids and it was great! I took the boys late one Sunday afternoon for a little playtime. The weather was cool with a little wind. It was perfect. These are few photos of the boys enjoying being outside.

Cole's 1st Trip to the Dentist

2009-08-18T07:13:00.001-07:00

Somehow I forgot to blog about Cole's first trip to the dentist. He went to see Mrs. Amy August 4th and he did as well as I expected. He was fine the whole time before we went in but as soon as I laid him down he started screaming. Mrs. Amy is also his mission friends teacher as church so he is used to her just not used to laying down with his mouth open. She was great though! She counted his teeth and told us they looked good. She would see us back in 6 months. Cole got a sticker and new toothbrush.

Somebody is Going to Miss These Puppies

2009-08-18T07:06:00.000-07:00

The puppies are 6 weeks old now and some have already left us to go to their permanent homes. Cole loves them so much and plays with them daily. These pictures were taken this morning before Daddy left for work. Cole has to check on them all the time and loves for them to chase him around the yard. I think someone is definitely going to miss them when they are all gone. We have found homes for 6 of them but still have 6 left. Let me know if you are interested. They are adorable but we can't keep 6!!!We have 2 black females, 1 black male, 1 chocolate male and 2 chocolate females left

Happy Birthday Little Man!

2009-08-07T07:41:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that today you turn one. It seems like yesterday your Daddy and I traveled to Dothan for my 37 week appointment only to find out that you were ready to enter this world early. We were in complete shock. I didn't have my bags in the car - they were packed at home, and I almost didn't let your Dad go with me - I didn't see the need in it. We spent the night in the hospital and waited until the next morning when Dr. Nichols would be on call. He had delivered your brother and we wanted him to deliver you. He came in that morning after he had done a c-section and said that it wouldn't be long. I was very sick; I think due to the ambien they had given me to help me sleep the night before. Nana, Pops, Granny and Honey brought Cole to be there for your arrival. They didn't have to wait long because you entered this world at 10:58 am weighing 7lbs 2 oz. We loved you from the moment we saw you and now a year later are more in love with you than ever. This year has flown by and you have trucked along like a little trooper. You were so laid back as a baby and still are more laid back than your brother. You slept in your Dad's and my room until you were 8 months old because we lived in a two bedroom house. We moved into our new home in April and you finally had your own room helping you to eventually learned to sleep through the night which was great for your Dad. You are all over the place walking and talking. You follow Cole around and love when he plays with you. You are great at playing "Patty Cake" and you know exactly what to do with a phone. Yesterday, you had tubes put in and did fabulous. It was pitiful to hold you when you came back from surgery and all I could do was listen to you cry. You did great though when we got home. Your Dad and I hope that this will cure the ear infections, help with your hearing and bring you back to your normal self. Owen, we love you so much and feel so blessed by our Lord and Savior that he entrusted you to us. We pray that we will instill Christian values in you and even more we pray that we set the best example for you to follow. Happy Birthday Baby Boy!

Owen's Party

2009-07-29T09:47:00.000-07:00

Owen celebrated his first birthday this past Saturday with his friends, family, cake and ice cream. Thank you to everyone who could come. He had a great time and we enjoyed seeing all of you.owen's smash cake

Cole helping Owen with his presentsEnjoying his cakegiving cousin Ella Joy some sugar - he is a good kisserHappy Birthday Owen! We all love you so much.

My Sick One

2009-07-29T09:33:00.000-07:00

Owen is such a good baby that I can't imagine what he will be like when he gets tubes on the 6th of August. He can be a little fussy at times but if you had had ear infections since April, you would be fussy too. Yes, that is right, we have fought infections since the first of April and now are on our way to get tubes the day before his first birthday. He has developed a mild hearing loss due to all the fluid in his ears and Dr. Mc even says that it has effected his balance. Since Owen has been walking for a few weeks now I can only think that he could have started walking much sooner if we didn't have infections. I don't know if I should be thankful or disappointed! Dax and I couldn't be more ready. We would have loved to have them 2 months ago considering it would have saved us numerous trips to the pediatrician and a large amount of co-pays but we are thankful that they are in our future. I still have mixed emotions since they will be using anesthesia to put him under. I would appreciate your prayers to ease my anxiousness. We are having Owen's party this coming Saturday since my sisters will already be in town for the Graham reunion so I will post lots of photos after the weekend.

This photo was too cute not to share. I think Owen favors the Grahams much more than Cole. Owen loves his Pops and will sit in his lap perfectly content forever.

Las Vegas

2009-07-21T13:27:00.000-07:00

Dax and I returned yesterday from a much needed vacation with each other. We were invited to travel with 3 other couples and had a wonderful time. We left on Thursday headed for Las Vegas. We stayed at the Venetian. It was beautiful and I would highly recommend it to anyonevisiting there. We were able to walk around and see things that afternoon before dinner. I ventured out while traveling and tasted sushi for the first time - not something I would eat all the time but it was good. We saw Jersey Boys which I would see again. I loved the music! We ate at On Top of the World restaurant at the Stratosphere. The food was good but the view was the best. We got there before dark and left after dark so we were able to see all of Vegas while we rotated through dinner. It was great! We went to The Price is Right Live - different from the real one but lots of fun. Nobody from our group was called up to participate though but we enjoyed seeing the others win prices and the well known games from the Price is Right. Four of us rented a car and drove over to see the Hoover Dam. Dax really enjoyed it. I will agree that it was amazing to see. I didn't take tons of photos but have uploaded the ones I managed to snap.The guys with the world's tiniest ElvisDax in Nevada while I am in ArizonaDinner at TaoAfter The Price is Right In front of the fountain
Outside the Venetian - in front of the gondola rides

After we got to the Venetian

Before dinner the first night

Happy Birthday Aunt Alex

2009-07-15T12:46:00.000-07:00

If you can't already tell the summer months are full of birthdays for us. June 28th was Nana's, July 4th was Grandma's (and the puppies), July 9th was Pops', July 15th is Alex's, July 29th is Aliee's, July 30th is Granny's and August 7th is Owen's. We have them lined up!

But today is Aunt Alex's birthday. Yes, that is right, our baby is 17. I can't believe that she is a senior this year and will be graduating and going off to college. The older I get the fast the years go by. We hope she has a wonderful birthday full of lots of goodies. We love you and are so thankful we get to see you so often.

Happy 60th Pops!

2009-07-13T08:42:00.000-07:00

Pops turned 60 on Thursday so we celebrated with the whole family over the weekend. Everyone came in on Friday for dinner - we went out to eat. Yes all 16 of us. It really wasn't bad. The children were well behaved and mom got to enjoy a weekend free from heavy cooking in the kitchen. We tried to make it as stress - free as possible. Saturday the boys and I headed over to Nana's early that morning to spend the day with everyone. Cole and Owen both love seeing their cousins and enjoying time with them. We hung out around the pool all morning and afternoon and then prepared for some others to come for dinner. We grilled hamburgers and hotdogs and had birthday cake and homemade ice cream. Pops had a great time and we appreciate everyone that could make it coming. It meant a lot to us. Meggan did a great job taking photos! There are lots of photos and I couldn't decide what to post so enjoy because I uploaded a bunch.

Owen with his Daddy - the best person in the whole world to him

The Graham Family with spouses and children

Pops and his 6 grandchildren - can you imagine how many there will be :)

Aliee loves her Owen

Nana with Aliee (6)

Aunt Meg and Ella Joy

Aunt Alex with her Girls

Two sweet sisters

Honey and Owen at the Birthday Party

Ella Joy (2) and her Mommy- who is expecting another girl in November

Addison(2) and Cole enjoying lunch

Graham(4)

Our bathing beauty - Aunt Alex

Addison with Pops

Ella Joy and Aliee

Uncle Trey and Cole

Aunt Joy with Ella Joy and Aliee

Uncle D and Aliee

Graham and Hope

Addison with her Daddy

Owen and Mommy

Our experience with Bitties

2009-07-10T07:18:00.001-07:00

We took a field trip to a local chicken house yesterday afternoon. I am sure most are thinking, "What?" One of Honey's friends called to say they had received their new bitties and that she could bring Cole if she wanted to. We ventured to their house late yesterday afternoon with Cole and Owen wondering if Cole would like them or not. He tends not to like a whole lot of anything and acts scared a good bit of the time. However, we walked in and there were baby chickens everywhere. Mr. Robert brought some up for Cole and Owen to see. Cole reluctantly held one for a while until the baby started flapping its wings. Cole flipped out and wouldn't touch another one after that. He and Owen were both amazed! Honey and I received a lesson from Mrs. Ann and Mr. Robert about how long they keep them, how much they weigh when they leave them, how they feed them and water them. It brought back memories of my Dad raising quail. I can remember going in the house and there being baby quails everywhere. It is something I had not thought about for a long time. Living in Troy there are not museums to see or zoos to venture to but I am thankful that my boys have the opportunity such as this to see something others don't get to see all the time. Thanks Honey and Mrs. Ann and Mr. Robert. We enjoyed it!

2009-07-09T07:09:00.000-07:00

Last night after supper we were entertaining the boys and getting a big kick out of their laughing. Owen would repeat anything we did. It was hilarious. The boys are laughing at Dax pretending to sneeze while throwing a paper towel at them. Their laugh is so infectious. Thought this was too funny not to share.

Happy 11 months Wild Man!

2009-07-07T08:20:00.000-07:00

You are 11 months today! I can not believe in one short month you will be a year old. It seems like yesterday we were bringing you home from the hospital. You have been one sick little fellow since the first of April with a constant ear infection. We are making a trip to the ENT this month to hopefully, get you feeling better. Even though your ears are infected and your nose is snotty you are a happy little boy...especially if someone is holding you. It is amazing how much you have change in one month.

You have started walking.

You love table food and love to feed yourself.

You are quick to let is know when you have something in your mouth that you like, "MMMM!"

You are still obsessed with your Daddy and Cole.

You love a ball...any kind of ball. You can throw it and pick it up while squatting

It seems that you try to say anything we tell you to. ..kitty, ball, book, tractor, dog, hey, drink
The last time we went to the doctor on the 2nd you weighed around 22 pounds.

You have 7 teeth hence the table food.

We fall more and more in love with you everyday and can't wait to see how different you are in a month. You have the best little personality.

4th of July babies

2009-07-06T08:01:00.000-07:00

While everyone was celebrating the fourth our yellow lab, Georgia was in labor. We spent lunch at the Pughs enjoying great food and fun with family. When we returned home Georgia was panting and Dax wanted to put her in our laundry room for a few minutes to let her cool off. I told him I didn't want her having the puppies in the laundry room but we could let her in for a little bit to rest. Of course, about 30 minutes later, I thought I heard something and told Dax to check...Yep! We have a puppy...a chocolate male. Thirty minutes later we had a black male, a chocolate male, a black male. Then finally a black female. Georgia did great! She is such a good mama. After a few more puppies, cleaning the laundry room, sitting with her while our neighbors shot fireworks because she was scared to death and a couple more puppies we called it a night. When we went to bed around 10:45 she had 11. Dax got up sometime around 3:30 and found that she had had 2 more but one was dead. We ended up with 7 black and 5 chocolate and really good mix of male and female. Cole and Owen both love them. Cole has to check on them often and says that they need milk when they are crying.

We have 12 puppies for sale if you are interested or know of anyone that might be. Georgia is a 5 year old yellow lab who is the best dog ever. The daddy is a 2 year old chocolate lab. They both have papers. Feel free to email me at holly.pugh.qgjz@statefarm.com

Happy 4 Years Honey!

2009-06-22T07:34:00.000-07:00

September 27, 1997...Dax and I began our "dating" relationship. We have know each other our whole lives but didn't start dating until I was in high school. We rode to school together since he lived beside me, I cheered for him during football games, watched him play baseball, spent Saturday nights going out to eat and watching a movie. I loved spending time with him. We dated all through high school and college despite me going away to school and him staying in Troy. We both tell everyone that that was the best thing for our relationship because it wasn't until then that we learned a true appreciation for each other. June 25, 2005...we embarked on the covenant of marriage; the most sacred commitment. I knew Dax would be a wonderful husband and he has made me so happy. He is a Godly man leading our family by example. He is a hard worker and a wonderful father. January 10, 2007 Cole blessed our lives and August 7, 2008 we were blessed with Owen. It seems like Dax and I have been together for an eternity. We have seen each other through so much and I can't imagine my life without him. He is my soul mate and a true blessing from the Lord. I love you honey!

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-22T07:24:00.000-07:00

If you would have asked me when Dax and I were dating what kind of Daddy he would be I would have told you I couldn't see him with kids. Not that he was bad with them or didn't like them; he was just never around them. The first baby he held was Cole and the first diaper he changed was Cole's. He changed him before I ever did. Parenting has come so naturally to Dax and he is amazing with the boys. They absolutely adore him and meltdown when he isn't around. Cole watches every step he makes and wants to do the same thing while Owen just needs his Daddy to hold him right now. Dax doesn't ever look at this blog but I did want to post for the sake of remembering how great he is...We love you and are so thankful God blessed us with you!

Our Baby

2009-06-17T07:05:00.000-07:00

We won't have a baby for too much longer. Owen is getting to be so big and growing so fasting and changing so much. He has transitioned from baby food to table food in less than a week. He has always been a big eater and continues to be so with table food now. Last night for dinner he had grilled chicken, stewed squash, broiled okra and scalloped potatoes. He, of course, ate more than Cole - although Cole did eat. He, in the last few days, has began standing up by himself not using anything. Cole didn't do this until after he started walking, after he turned one. Owen does it all the time and even tried to take a baby step last night. I took Owen to the doctor last Wednesday fearing that he had yet another ear infection. Fortunately, no ear infection but a form of pink eye. Dr. T prescribed some nasal drops to clear up the pouring nose and told me to use the eye drops I already had. It helped but I noticed today Owen felt warm and his eye had started back running. He weighed a whopping 21 pounds 5 ounces. He is closing in on Cole quickly. Below is a photo after his bath last night which he loves. We have to do it quickly, or else, he will splash all the water out of the tub on to me. He is such a fun baby!

Splashing in the Pool

2009-06-17T06:55:00.000-07:00

We had Nixon over Saturday for some playtime and boy did they play. After lunch we put their swimsuits on and headed outside. I had purchased this pool a few weeks ago for Cole to have around the house and he loves it. His favorite thing to do (even when he is shaking because he is so cold) is to run to the top of the hill, turn around, count, and run back down. He and Nixon had so much fun doing this. They are so cute together! She is a month older than him and her mommy and I have had them together since day one. Cole talks about her all the time and always wants to know where she is and what she is doing.

A weekend in South Carolina

2009-06-08T11:47:00.000-07:00

This is what we were doing this past weekend...Dax's Aunt and Uncle live on the lake in South Carolina and we have made it an annual trip to travel to see them. Tyson wasn't able to make it this year due to work but Clint, Brittany, Dax and I left Friday morning in the rain. It rained off and on while we traveled and then a little when we got there but it didnt' matter because it was relaxation. We enjoyed getting to visit with Uncle Larry and Aunt Cheryl, ride the boat and look at the houses and good food. They are always so welcoming and it is a nice little getaway. Dax and Clint got to ski and improve on their skills :) We want to have a "big shout out" to Cheryl who is 60 today and still can ski. She did so good! It was a great weekend for me and Dax.
Without realizing it; this was the first time I had been apart from Owen for a length of time. We definitely missed the two boys but know they had a blast at Honey and Monts and Nana and Pops'. Thanks for taking such great care of them. They love getting to see you all!

A little Visitor

2009-06-08T11:40:00.000-07:00

My oldest niece came to visit Nana and Pops for a few days and Cole wanted to play with her so I picked her up Thursday after work for a few hours. She is always so sweet! She and Cole enjoyed playing for a little while in the pool outside and then enjoyed a movie after their baths. Cole adores her and Owen was completely mesmerized by her. She is so good with both of them. We love getting to see our cousins!

Mohawks

2009-05-26T10:41:00.001-07:00

These pictures were too funny not to post. Cole loves when I give him a mohawk in the bath tub. We have to do his for Owen to see and then we have to do Owen's for Cole to see. They both get so cracked up over it. Life with my boys is good. We love it!

Owen's first trip to the Beach

2009-05-26T08:09:00.000-07:00

We returned yesterday from a wonderful trip to the beach. When we left Friday around 5:15 driving through the rain with tired boys, I thought..."Great, this is going to be a great trip." Saturday we woke to cloudy weather but I went ahead and took Cole down to the pool since there was an indoor part. He loved it. He wanted to jump off the side, play motor boat (something we have always done since we were children), and swim by himself. We headed back up to the condo to get Daddy, Owen, Mr. John and Will and to get some lunch. After lunch we all went to the beach only to stay 15 minutes or so before trying to dodge a huge rain cloud. We all laughed because as soon as we got back up to the room the sun came out. But the boys napped so they would be in a good mood for dinner. We went to the Crab Trap - an all time favorite. Cole loved it because he got to play outside while we waited for our table. Sunday was pretty too so we all went down to the beach and pool. Since this was Owen's first trip to the beach I guess I should blog about him. Poor guy; he is at an awkward stage for the sand. He wanted to get down and crawl around all in it, as well at it. He loved it but his mommy and daddy didn't love having to keep sand out of his mouth. He enjoyed the pool also. Daddy held him and he just splashed and splashed. All and all the boys were good and we had a great trip with the Vakakes'. Thanks for letting us go with you guys. We will have to do it again.

This little man loves his Daddy...I can't blame him...I do too!

Dax buried Cole and he was okay with it for about 2 seconds. Dax then buried Owen and he thought it was funny! It was hysterical.

Cole building sand castles with Daddy

Owen enjoying the sand in his mouth

My three boys whom I love!

Family Shot - impossible to get everyone looking

Cole playing before dinner. Hand the boy a bucket and shovel and he is content for hours.

Cole riding the alligator at The Original Oyster House

Owen (9 months), Will (4 months), and Cole (2)

These two were so sweet. I love that they will be in the same grade. They may be roommates one day :)

Owen loves his pacifier

Owen playing with Daddy on the bed.

Cole enjoying being thrown in the pool

Cole is at such a fun age. He really loved the beach and did great!

Cole didn't really want to smile for me. You can see his eyes are closed.

Brooke and I were roommates in college and best friends. I am so glad that we are close enough to still be able to see each other. We had a great time with our boys. Here they are in their matching crab outfits. They are adorable.

2009-05-19T13:39:00.000-07:00

Here are a few recent photos of the boys. They are both growing so fast and changing so much. Owen is now 9 months old. We just had his check-up because we had a sick visit the day before his check-up was scheduled. He has been a sick little guy. He had the Roto virus along with double ear infections. This was all 2 weeks ago. He lost over a pound and wouldn't eat a thing. He has now gained a pound back and is back eating like he use to. He weighed 19 lbs 6 oz and measured 29" in length. He can crawl anywhere, pull up on anything and is now walking holding on to the couch. He loves

1. Cole
2. His Daddy
3. Angela (the lady that keeps him)
4. Georgia (our PREGNANT yellow lab)
5. balls
6. his baths
7. ritz crackers
8. his sippee cup

We are trying to tast new table foods often. So far he has had
1. mashed potatoes
2. butterbeans
3. field peas
4. biscuits (small amount)

He is sleeping better through the night and as my doctor told me...he will stop waking up when I(Dax) stops getting up with him. We know this but it is super easy to put the papi in his mouth or give him 4 ounces of formula when we need sleep.

Isn't it crazy how different they look???

Cole is a full fledge 2 year old boy. We are working on the potty training thing but it seems that it is going to take a while if I am not home with him to consistently work on it. We are in search for big boy underwear small enough for him. The smallest size 2t-3t falls right down even when rolled a few times. It is pretty pitiful. He can be soooo sweet sometimes. He tells me often that he loves me or that I look pretty. I love hearing sweet things from him. Then he turns and deliberately rebels looking us dead in the eye. Boys right? Two year olds right? He loves

1. tractors
2. hay
3. lawn mowers (we have to sit on almost all of them when we are at Lowes)
4. Nixon (his friend)
5. outside
6. dirt
7. moo cows
8. saying, "Oh my goodness!" (one of the most precious things to hear)

Dax and I are so blessed with these two. We love them both so much even though they can be aggrevating at times. We can't remember life without them and are thankful the Lord chose us to be their parents.

We have furniture

2009-04-15T11:06:00.000-07:00

When Dax and I got married in 2005 we purchased only a bedroom suit for our house. Most of our furniture consisted of hand-me-downs (which i love) and college pieces. We knew that we wanted to purchase living room furniture when we started building this house. It arrived this past Friday and I couldn't be more pleased. I know we are going to enjoy having it. Please excuse all the random stuff sitting around. We are still trying to tie up a few loose ends and our plan is to stay tonight in the house for the first time. YEAH! I know my parents are sooooo ready. I hope to post more photos after the weekend. I am hosting my good friend, Allison's wedding shower!

We took the boys over last night to eat while we finished up some things. Cole loves "bock bock".

Owen using his high chair for the first time.

Cole even let Owen play in his room so mom and dad could work. They are so sweet to each other already.

Our couch

2 chairs and an ottoman. like i said there is still much to do but we are nearing the end.

Happy Resurrection Day

2009-04-14T10:47:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful Easter full of great weather, sweet family and friends, a fun egg hunt and an amazing Resurrection service at Church. I hope that each of us remembered to reflect on this time in our lives and thank our Father for an amazing sacrifice and unconditional love. I was able to talk with Cole about why we celebrate Easter. Of course, he is young, but I pray that Dax and I as parents will take each opportunity available to instill Christian beliefs in him. Our Lord is so gracious and we are so undeserving of his incredible love. I hope that each of you celebrated the resurrection of our Christ.

Owen was excited to get in to the baskets.

Looks like that bunny should have brought us some bibs. He drools all the time. The four teeth explain it.

Cole paused to smile for me. It is rare to catch it on camera.

Dressed for church and waiting on Mommy. We just did make it to the 8:00 service.

Hunting eggs at Granny's house.

Owen is back to himself

2009-04-08T07:13:00.000-07:00

Owen is much better. He is such a happy baby when he isn't sick which makes it even harder when he is. He smiles all the time! He, of course, is much more laid back than Cole ever was. It is amazing how God creates us! He is 8 months now; WOW, how fast time flys. I don't know that I ever updated with his activities; but he began crawling at 6 months and a few short weeks later started sitting up on his own. Around 7 months he started pulling up and now he trys to let go when he stands up. I don't know if he thinks he can walk or what but he is quick to pull up to the couch turn around and let go like he is about to take off.
I had Kim take his 6 month pictures and I couldn't be happier with how they turned out. I love seeing how different Cole and Owen look when Cole was this age. I have included the website for you all to be able to see them. Hope you enjoy!

added password : owen_kb09

http://web5.sendtoprint.net/proofbook/owen_kb09/Cover.asp?sets=owen_kb09

One Sick Little Guy

2009-04-02T07:49:00.001-07:00

First off let me say that we are so blessed not to have sickly children whom we have to visit doctor after doctor for or take medicine after medicine. This being said when sickness does hit it is no fun in our house. Dax left out Monday morning around 4 for a week in Georgia due to work. We knew Owen was getting another tooth (top) so the congestion was no surprise to either of us. Dax doesn't work out of town much but it seems that every time he does one of the boys is sick. Fortunately, for me not my parents, we are still at Mom and Dad's and I have had help this week. I am not one to jump to take the kids to the doctor only to pay my copay and them tell me because they aren't running fever they won't give them anything; but I called on Tuesday and they told me I needed to bring Owen in. So yesterday we ventured to the doctor with a child who could barely open his eyes due to a whole bunch of matter, a snotty nose and skin that was the color of a fire truck. This little guy looked terrible and what made it worst was there was nothing I could do for him. He would look up at me and give me the biggest grin :) We left with a diagnosis of a right ear infection causing the matter in his eyes that has now turned in to a form of pink eye(not contagious) and pretty bad eczema. We are dosing him up and hoping that everything will clear up quickly. We have been dealing with his eczema since he was 3 weeks old but just about the time we think it is controlled it flares up again. This time I wasn't leaving without a steroid cream or something. Mom put it on last night after his bath and it has already relieved much of the redness. We of course got weighed and we have a whopper of a child weighing in at...19 pounds 15 ounces. Twenty pounds? Really? Cole weighed 22 pounds a few months ago...no wonder they wear the same size diapers.

Speaking of diapers Cole will be potty trained as soon as we get moved in. He is very consistent with tee teeing if you take him to the potty but occasionally will tell you he has to go. Well, at school Tuesday he told Miss. Kelley and Miss Jamie every time he had to go and then he pooped on the potty for Nana(my mom) yesterday. We are making progress.!

On a positive note, Daddy comes home tonight and his boys will be so proud to see him. I am sure Cole will have to tell him about seeing "that cows bubble on his back". For those of you that don't know my husband's father is a farmer making my husband a farmer want-a-be. Dax would have chosen farming as a career if he knew it would provide for a family like it use to provide but these days it really isn't possible. Anyways, we check cows regularly, especially during birthing season. Mr. Monte and Uncle Clint took Cole to check the cows and it just so happened that one was at the beginning of birthing her calf. Cole saw a "bubble" and hasn't quit talking about it yet. He gets one thing on his mind and doesn't let it go. If you ask him who saw the bubble his response is "Monts saw it, Nint (uncle Clint) saw it, and Tole (cole) saw it. We saw that cows bubble!" He is a true boy threw and threw. He enjoys being outside every chance he gets and loves the opportunity to see the donkeys and cows. I know one day he will be helping Daddy pull those calves.

My Boys are growing

2009-03-24T07:37:00.000-07:00

Cole is so silly. Dax tells me that this is what boys do. They act goofy until the hit their teens. He put on Mr. Potato
Head's glasses and thought it was hysterical.
Owen is getting so big. He crawled up the steps going into my parents' kitchen the first day we were there. He is constantly trying to pull up on everything.

Cole and Owen are growing so fast. We have been at mom and dad's for a week now and the boys love it. Of course, Cole always wants Nana. The other night I was putting him to bed; we always read our Bible story, a book (usually, "The Cow Who Clucked") and then we say our prayers. Just before we said our prayers Cole asked me where his bed was. I told him it was at the new house. He continued to say, "Mommy, I want go new house; I want get in my bed."

There isn't much more left to do so my hope is that we will be completely settled in 2 weeks. We shall see though. Last week was a week to be forgotten. The people installing the counter tops broke them, measured them wrong and busted 2 places on my cabinet doors. The closet people didn't show up - the story of hiring someone to do something as Dax would say.

Shower is complete and hardwood is in

2009-03-02T08:52:00.000-08:00

I give little credit to my amazing husband for the job he has done on our house. He is such a hard worker and we wouldn't have the things we have if it wasn't for him. He works all day surveying (which isn't the easiest job) comes home to help with the boys and leaves when we get them in the bed for a long night of work. Lately, he has been coming in around midnight or later knowing that Owen will wake up soon and then his day will start over in just a few short hours. He really is an amazing husband, daddy and friend! He has done the majority of the work on the inside of the house (with some help from his dad and brothers - BIG THANKS!) We are getting down to the wire so he is busy spending any free time over at the house. I stopped by this weekend to take a few photos of our shower and the hardwood floors. Charles Hussey did an amazing job installing all of this. Dax has started finishing the floors so hopefully, in a few days the 3 coats of poly will be done and we will have beautiful brazilian walnut floors. I can't wait to be in our new home!

Owen is 6 months and we are a little behind

2009-03-02T08:45:00.000-08:00

It is so hard to believe Owen is 6 months already. It seems like he was just born! His stats at his 6 month check-up were 16 pounds 7 ounces and 27 inches long. He enjoys eating; can you tell? He is such a good baby during the day (as his daddy and I like to say). He still doesn't have the sleeping thing down pat but we are working on it. The nights he seems to do well, Cole wakes up! He has 2 teeth and can sit up for a little bit until he loses his balance :) He is crawling everywhere and getting in to everything. I am now through nursing so we have started buying formula :( I have got to get Cole out of diapers or we will break the bank on diapers, wipes and formula each month! Owen loves loves loves Cole and will do anything to be right up under him. Cole, needless to say, pays him attention only when he wants to. We are loving life with our 2 boys and look forward to many years full of a best friendship.

What will the temp be tomorrow?

2009-03-02T08:40:00.000-08:00

Saturday we were in t-shirts and shorts playing our last game of Upward Basketball for the season and fighting through the rainy weather and Sunday we woke up to snow flakes following. Crazy Alabama weather. We listened to the forecasts for snow and thought, yeah right, that is what they say. Well, boy were we wrong! We left for church with a few flakes coming down but not sticking, left church and head to Honey and Monts for lunch and the blizzard(at least it seemed like a blizzard to us) started. We let Cole go outside for a few minutes so that we could snap some photos and say he had seen snow since it is likely to not happen for another 10 years or so. He loved it! Alex and Chance walked over with snowballs and let him throw them at them. They were like two kids themselves. Hope you all enjoyed your snow day.