The Sweet Scroggins Sisters

First day of dance

2010-08-30T12:24:00.001-07:00

Dance is back and in full swing. This year we are lucky enough to get all 3 classes on the same night. Ella take a preschool combo class and EC takes acro and jazz. The girls loves dance and have so much fun. Here are a couple of pictures from the first night. I did not get any before they pulled their hair down.

First Day of School for EC

2010-08-09T07:54:00.000-07:00

Well, Today was EC's 1st day of 1st grade. She did great!!!! She slept excellent last night woke up in a good mood and was ready to face the day. Her teacher in Mrs. Walker. I know we will have an excellent year. It is hard to believe my baby is in 1st grade.

Tree Houses

2010-08-06T12:36:00.000-07:00

The Botanical Gardens has a Treehouse exhibit for the Summer. The girls and I went with Mrs. Debbie and her grandchildren. Mrs. Debbie is the wife of our discipleship Pastor at church and there grandchildren Hunter and Anisley were in town for a few days. EC and Ainsely got to be friends at VBS. The Treehouses were so much fun and the kids had a blast running around and playing.

End of the Summer Musical

2010-08-06T12:27:00.000-07:00

The girls attended North Hills Day Camp this summer threes days a week while I went into the office. They did a different theme camp every two weeks. They had cooking, art, music, outdoor adventures, and sports camp. They had a blast. The last week they did a performance for the parents with a musical and art show. The girls did a great job. Ella even had a special little part where she walked down the aisle blowing bubbles. She was so proud of herself.

More Lake Pics

2010-08-02T05:27:00.000-07:00

Summer Days at the Lake

2010-08-01T17:30:00.000-07:00

We love spending the weekends at my parents house on the lake. We have so much fun out on the water. The girls love hanging out with their cousins and playing in the water. We always have a wonderful time. Here are some pics from this summer at the lake.

EC turns 6!!!

2010-08-01T17:06:00.000-07:00

Yes, you read this right, We have a six year old. As you may know, EC and my mom's bdays are one day apart. So, we started the celebration at the lake with all of my family. We had a blast. My parents gave EC her fave gift. That was an ipod touch. She loves it. My brother and his family gave her a precious outfit. Abbey can always find a cute, but funky outfit to fit EC's taste. My aunt and Uncle and cousin Katie were there can gave her an itunes gift card. She love downloading new songs.

The following Monday she had some friends over for a peace sign swimming party. Her cake was too cute. A lady at our church made it for her and she an AWESOME job. I can't believe that my sweet girl is 6!!!!

We are still alive!!!

2010-08-01T17:03:00.000-07:00

I know I am so far behind with my blogging. This summer has been crazy busy. Over the next few days I am going to try to catch up and do our summer in a nutshell. I hope to be able to stay caught up and not get this far behind again. So, keep checking in as I catch you up on our crazy, wonderful life.

Easter bucket and Spring Hat

2010-04-02T14:03:00.000-07:00

Today for school EC had an Easter Egg Hunt and a hat parade. I was very proud of my crafty skills that have developed lately. Here are a couple of pics

Dance Pics

2010-04-02T13:52:00.000-07:00

The girls had dance pics. This week. They did a great job. Here are some I took of them.

Babies part 2

2010-02-25T06:33:00.000-08:00

They Are Here

2010-02-25T06:16:00.000-08:00

Tuesday morning we welcomed the newest members of the Plant Family into the world. Isaac Patterson who weighed 7lbs and was 21 1/2 inches long and Evelyn Frances who weighed 5lbs and 11oz and was 18 1/2 inches long. They are so sweet. Everyone is totally in love with them.

Lord, Please draw near to us

2010-02-20T13:40:00.000-08:00

Over the past couple of months many families and people dear to me have faced and are facing heart ache. A young lady by the name Kasi Carroll that I have gotten to know in the past year and grow to admire and love was diagnose with breast cancer a couple of months ago. Kasi's husband and I have know each other forever. Kasi's sister died in August with cancer.
The next is Mrs. Jeanette Tate who is an amazing woman and anothe member of our church along with Kasi. Mrs. Jeanette's family is dear to me. One of her grandaughter's Kristen is one of my best friends. Mrs. Jeanette has a brain infection and is in ICU and has been there for several weeks.
The latest is my teenage Sunday school teacher Cindy Gaught. She was diagnosed with a brain tumor this week and had surgery today. Cindy was the person who lead me to Christ at age 17. She has stage 4 cancer that is very aggressive.
My heart breaks for all three of these families. All I can do is pray for them. They are all strong Christian ladies with amazing faith. I admire each of these ladies for many reasons. I ask each of you reading this to join me in praying for these dear ladies and there families. We serve a God who hears our prayers and works miracles.

More craft pics

2010-02-19T14:55:00.000-08:00

Watch out Martha Stewart

2010-02-19T14:26:00.000-08:00

I am not a crafty person. But, I have surprised myself the last couple days. I went to Hobby Lobby and got some supplies to do some little projects. I made some gifts for my new sweet niece and nephew that I will meet Tuesday and some flip flops for my girls and Olivia. I got a circut machine for my birthday and made some letters to decorate gift bags.

A New Chapter

2010-01-23T15:01:00.001-08:00

Our family is preparing to embark on a new chapter in our lives. As most of you know for the past 2 years I have been working at our church as the part- time co-preschool director. Well, last week my friend and co-worker Martha resigned to take another job. Our Pastor gave me several options. To hire someone to co- direct with me or for me to go full-time and do it by myself. I have also been coordinating the church's ministry to the schools and community. So if I went full-time I would handle all of this. With much prayer Dave and I decided this was the route for us to take. So, I am now working full-time. I will still have flexibility and be able to be there for the kids and be involved in there schools.
When I was 21 and a Jr. in college I felt that God had called me into the ministry either preschool or children's. After I graduated from college I applied for several ministry positions and the doors were closed for me. God continued to open doors into the public school system. So, I taught in the public school system for 3 years until we had Emery Claire. I questioned several times if I had mistaken God's call into the ministry. I continued doing what I felt called to do. While in B'ham Dave and I served in the preschool ministry at Shades Mountain. Now, as I look back it was all part of God's plan to prepare for this time. I learned and grew so much while serving at Shades, teaching 1st grade and being a stay at home mom. I know that we as a family are where God wants us to be.. Please pray for our family as we transition into me working full time. Also pray that I continue to seek God daily for the direction He would have me to go in my ministry to His people.

Snow!!!!!

2010-01-07T16:39:00.000-08:00

Today we got a little bit of snow. Enough to close schools for today and tomorrow. Even though there was not too much the girls still managed to play in it and have lots of fun. Here are a couple of pics from the day.

My little Model

2010-01-03T14:17:00.000-08:00

Ella has gotten into posing lately. So, I have been learning my new camera and taking pics of her. Here are a few that I just think are cute.

Ella's Parent's night at Dance

2010-01-03T14:03:00.000-08:00

I am a little behind on putting up these pics, but my camera bit the dust the day before and I used my mom's and I am just not getting around to getting them of her camera. Ella did a great job. She was a little ham to say the least. I was so proud of how well she did.

Union Springs Christmas

2009-12-28T16:58:00.000-08:00

We left Adam's house around 11:00 on Christmas Day and Headed to Dave's parents house for lunch. We had a wonderful visit with his parents. I am so excited about my gift from them. I got a new bedspread. Dave and the girls gave me the matching bathroom stuff. I will post pics when i get it all together. The girls had a enjoyable time visiting with Dave's parents.

More B'ham Christmas

2009-12-28T16:52:00.000-08:00

Christmas in B'ham

2009-12-28T16:37:00.000-08:00

We went to my brother's house in Birmingham this year for Christmas. We got there Christmas Eve and left around 11:00 on Christmas Day. All of my family was there including my Aunt, Uncle, and Cousins. We had a wonderful time. We did our family gifts Christmas Eve night. My parents gave me a new camera. So, all of my pics start on Christmas morning because my other camera had bit the dust. The girls had a great time being with all of their family. It was so much fun to watch them and Olivia open gifts together. We are very blessed with an amazing family.

One of the best Birthday's ever

2009-12-19T14:45:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I celebrated my 31st b-day. It was wonderful. I had gotten two of my gifts early this year. The one from my parents and my brother and his family. So, We have been celebrating since Thanksgiving. My parents kept the girls and Dave and I went with Brooke and John to Shogun for dinner. I love Shogun, but the girls don't like it so we never go. I got many b-day wishes via facebook. They all meant so much to me. I got many phone calls from my family and dear friends yesterday. We have a sweet lady in our church. Ms. Katie that calls everyone on their b-day. Our friends the Bryant's brought over some GiGi's cupcakes. YUMMMY!!!! Last night about 8:30 while Dave and I were out shopping I got a text from Brea' my friend since Kindergarten wishing me a happy b-day. That was very special to me. I also got a sweet email from one of our area principals, Mrs. Boone wishing me happy birthday. I realized that the sweet words and thoughtfulness are what really matters in life. I am very blessed to have amazing people in my life, both old and new.

EC's dance parents night

2009-12-15T06:18:00.000-08:00

Last night EC had parents night at her dance class. She did a wonderful job. I was a little nervous b/c of the last time she did dance at age 3 on parents night she laid in the floor and through a huge fit. So, this was much better. She is a great little dancer.

Nutcracker

2009-12-15T06:11:00.001-08:00

Saturday my mom and I took EC and her Friend Kylan to the Nutcracker. We bought Ella a ticket, but she said she did not want to go, so we invited Kylan. The girls friend Sarah was dancing in the nutcracker, so it made it extra special. We had a wonderful time.

Weekend in B'ham

2009-12-07T11:57:00.000-08:00

We went this weekend to B'ham to see Adam, Abbey, and Olivia. Abbey had a baby shower Saturday and then their church Christmas musical was Sunday afternoon. So, we made a weekend of it. We had so much fun. My parents went also. the shower for Isaac and Evelyn was great and Abbey got lots of great things. The girls had fun swimming in the indoor pool at Ross bridge. Church and the musical were awesome. It has been 2 years since I have taken off a Sunday. So, it was great to just worship and not have to work. I am so thankful for my family and the time we get to spend together

Christmas Picture Sneak Peek

2009-11-12T13:04:00.000-08:00

Yesterday mom and I took the girls to B'ham to have Christmas pictures made with Olivia. The girls did a great job. This was the easiest year yet and I am sure next year will not be as easy with the twins. Here is a sneak peek of the pics. Kim did a awesome job.

Ella's First Gameday

2009-11-12T06:34:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday we took the girls to Auburn's homecoming. The trip did not go as well as we had planned . On the way down EC got very sick. So, Brooke, John, and Dave took Ella on to the game and my sweet Dad came and got EC and I. Dave said Ella had a blast. Here are a few pics. from the day.

Harvest Party

2009-11-02T12:44:00.000-08:00

Ella's class had a harvest party on Thursday. The children dressed as community helpers. Ella went as a nurse. I found cute Disney Princess scrubs for her to wear. It was a lot of fun. I love Ella's teachers and her school.

Ella's School Party

2009-10-29T04:53:00.000-07:00

Well, as the week long birthday celebration for Ella continues we celebrated with her class yesterday. I brought a Cinderella Ice Cream cake for her to share with her friends. The cake was wonderful and we had a great time. EC even got to join us due to her having a Dr. appt right after I left the school. Hope you enjoy the pics.

Ella's Princess Party

2009-10-24T10:48:00.000-07:00

Today we had Ella's 3rd birthday party. We had it in our Puddle Jumpers room at church. I decorated everything in pink complete with GiGi's Miss Princess cupcakes. Brooke and Aunt Brenda came and we did our on Bippity Boopity Botique. The girls loved getting dressed up and wearing make up. Ella had a great day and it very successful.

What will your legacy be?

2009-10-22T11:22:00.000-07:00

Today a very dear friend of my family's passed away. Mrs. Sue was in her early 80's and was an amazing Christian lady. Last night as I gathered around her bed with my parents and her family, I started thinking about the legacy she is leaving. She was a godly lady who honestly had the faith of a mustard seed. She knew who was in control of her life. Each day she lived to serve her Savior and others. On Tuesday right before she was headed into surgery to of our ministers and I went to see her and she asked if we came to get her tithe. She had been worried since she was not in church Sunday that her tithe was not paid. She talking a little bit out of her head at that time and she was telling Steve, our Senior Pastor that she had an OK button for him. At the time we did not understand what she was talking about, but later it hit us. A year or so ago he preached a sermon series on " Our Yes" being on the table and willing to do whatever God calls us to do. Well, at the end of the series he gave us yes buttons to reminder us to be willing to serve where ever God calls us. That is what Mrs. Sue was talking about. Her Yes was on the table during the last hours of her life. I hope I can life a life like Mrs. Sue to always have my Yes on the table. When I meet my Savior I hope my legacy is like Mrs. Sue's one of faith and service to my Father.

Carpool Prayers

2009-10-13T20:12:00.000-07:00

We carpool with our friends the Whitakers to school. I drive the mornings and Trina picks up in the afternoon. I started the 1st day of school praying for the kids before I dropped them off. It has now become our routine. If I happen to forget the kids will all remind. they look forward to our morning prayer time. Now every morning the kids tell me what they want to pray about. This morning Ella wanted to pray for Sleeping Booty, Mason wanted to pray for his dog, EC wanted to pray for all the Disney Princesses, and Lexi wanted to pray for herself that she would not worry.So, that is what we prayed for. It is so sweet to get to pray for and with these 4 special children each day.

Happy Birthday Doe!!!!

2009-10-02T04:47:00.000-07:00

Today is my dad's birthday. I am so lucky to have him for a dad. He is an amazing Christian man. My dad has been such an example to Dave and I of faith and strength. He loves all of his grandchildren and would do anything for them. My dad is proudly the most generous man I know. He would literally give you the shirt off of his back. He has allowed numerous people to live in our basement over the years. He has taught me so many lessons that I will carry with me forever. Dave, the girls, and I are blessed to be a part of his life. My girls think their Doe hung the moon. Happy birthday dad!!!!! We love you.

When I grow up I will be a....

2009-09-18T16:39:00.001-07:00

This afternoon the girls were playing and I heard them talking about what they want to be when they grow up. EC said she wanted to be a teacher. Ella said said she wanted to be Snow White. Later she said I will be Ariel. EC told her that she could not be the princesses because they are not real. So, very frustrated she said I just want to be breakable when I grow up. I love listening to the two of them play and talk.

Thankful Thursday

2009-09-17T07:19:00.000-07:00

I am so thankful for my husband. He is such an amazing person. This week I have been sick and he has really done so much to help out. He has driven carpool, worked the book fair at EC's school, and got girls ready and took them to church last night. I appreciate his willingness so much. Each week he does so many things behind the scenes at church that nobody sees, and if it what not for him our preschool ministry what not be the same. Dave also keeps the girls and takes up my slack at home while I do thing at church. It is truly our ministry together. The girls and I love him so much!!!!

Funny Story!!!

2009-09-04T10:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a rough morning at our house. EC was not really wanting to go to school and to make matters worse my dad stops by to see the girls before school and tells them he is going to lake, Well, the bottom fell out. They both wanted to go with him. They both cried all the way to school and Ella never cries about school. My mom called me around 8:30 to tell me EC was better, but she told her teacher it was all Doe's fault. Later in the day her class was having a lesson on Setting of a story. They had to draw a picture to show a setting using a football player , a chef, and a teacher. Well, her setting with the teacher showed an apple with seven holes in it and Doe's name on it. In her class that is their discipline program is an apple and if you act up the teacher puts a hole in it. Well, the most they do is 4, so she was really mad at her Doe yesterday. Today she is sick with a stomach bug. We hope she feels better soon.

It takes a village

2009-09-03T12:53:00.000-07:00

The saying it takes a village to raise a child is true. I am so thankful for the people in my life that help with my girls. My parents are such great support for us. They are always willing to drop everything when we need them. They both work full time jobs but they always make time for my girls. This week they both took off work to attend grandparents day at Ella's school. I think about my friends Trina and Kristen. They are always willing to help out and we swap out watching each other kids. My dear friend Brooke always makes time to play and love on my girls even when she is swamped at work. Our new neighbors and friend Terry and Karen love our girls so much they always call to check on them when they know something is going on and let the girls ride home from church with them. Even though Adam and Abbey are 2 hours away they are a huge part of the girls lives and when we are together we all help each other out and I know if I need them they are just a phone call away. My girls are friends with brother and sister named Landon and Reagan and their Grandparents Mimi and Papa have become a big part of our lives. They are also willing to watch the girls when I need help. Ella wants to go home with them everyday from school. I am so thankful for my village.

Big News!!!

2009-08-25T09:45:00.001-07:00

We are so excited to share with everyone the big news in our family. My sister- in-law Abbey is 12 weeks pregnant with twins!!!! I have been dying to tell the big news. As most of you know we are very close to my brother and his family. I totally adore my niece Olivia and look forward to having 2 more sweet gifts from God to call me Auntie Em.

First Day

2009-08-19T07:44:00.000-07:00

We started back last week to school. Emery Claire started to Kindergarten. She is going to Lynn Fanning where my mom is the principal. She is doing ok. The morning is a litle rough, but all in all she loves. Ella is going to preschool three mornings a week. Ella loves school!!!! She would go to school everyday if we let her. All of Ella's pics are taken through the door because I did not want to give her the chance to cry. EC did not want her picture taken too much. I could not even get a pic with the principal.

Emery Claire's Baptism

2009-08-12T12:24:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago Emery Claire got baptized. We are very proud of the decision she made to accept Christ as her personal Savior. Our Children's Pastor Jason, baptized her. We are very close with Jason and his family, so this was very special for him to do it. Adam and Abbey brought Olivia to see Ec and Dave's parents drove in. EC's best friend Bailey and her parents came to church also. We were very excited about EC's preschool teacher and her husband coming to church with us. After church we had lunch for our family and special friends to celebrate. EC has a lot of special people in her life and we were so grateful to share this day with them.

Give me Roots and Give me Wings

2009-08-10T09:01:00.000-07:00

Painted on EC's wall is the phrase Give me roots and Give me Wings with 3-D butterflies around it. This morning as I walked into her room to get her ready for school that was the first thing i saw. I knew that today was the day she would sprout her wings. I just have to cling to the fact that we have taught her what is right in her 5 years of life. She did great this morning and was so excited. I will post pics later. My mom called a little while ago and said she saw her in the hall and she was very happy.

Few More beach pics

2009-07-27T12:58:00.000-07:00

Beach Trip

2009-07-27T12:54:00.000-07:00

So, I think I am finally caught up. We went to the beach in June . Dave could not get off to go, so we went with my mom, Trina and her kids, and Aunt Brenda. Aunt Brenda is my mom's best friend and the girls just call her Aunt Brenda. We had a blast. The girls loved having Mason and Lexi there to play with. I loved all the help. Emery Claire loved jumping waves with Mason and Ella liked playing in the pool.

Putt- Putt

2009-07-26T14:31:00.000-07:00

This summer since my cousins Tyler and Katie have been staying with us we have been able to do lots of fun things in the evenings. Tyler and Katie have been a huge help for us. One night a few weeks ago we went to play putt-putt. My mom had some of her teachers to the lake house so my dad stayed with us and joined in the fun.

4th of July

2009-07-26T14:00:00.000-07:00

We spent the 4th at the lake with my family. As always we had a blast. My girls and Olivia are at such a good age and play so well together. I love spending time with my whole family all together.

An Awesome Day and one Big Girl

2009-07-26T13:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we went to the lake with my family. While Dave, Emery Claire, and I were tubing behind the boat she prayed to receive Christ as her Savior. She had been asking lots of question lately about it, but we did not want to push her. So, out in the middle of the river Dave and I talked in depth with her and she told us that she was ready. She prayed in the middle of the Tennessee River for Christ to come in her heart. We question her understanding when she first started asking questions, but it was clear to us yesterday that she fully understood what she was doing. This morning she walked to the front of the church and by herself told our pastor what she had done. We are very proud of her. She will be getting baptized in the next week or two. Dave and I are over joyed with her decision.

Just a few more

2009-07-24T15:03:00.000-07:00

More pics

2009-07-24T15:01:00.001-07:00

New Pics

2009-07-24T14:57:00.000-07:00

We have not had a family pic since Ella was 2 months old,so it was long over due. I finally talked Dave into it and my friend Julie went with us downtown and took some pics of the family. Emery Claire loves having her picture made and is such a little model. We had a great time and the pics are really cute.

All about Ella

2009-07-24T14:26:00.000-07:00

I am super silly lately and love to make people laugh. I am my mommy's girl and like to be with her a lot. When mommy is not around I want my Mim. I have a sweet spirit and I am very kind hearted. I am becoming a very big girl. I am fully potty trained and i have given up my paci. I love all thing girly. I am really into the Disney Princesses and talk a lot about having a princess birthday party even though it is several months away. I will start taking dance in August and can't wait. I love to dance around everywhere I go. I will also start to preschool 3 mornings a week. I am very social so I look forward to this. I adore my sister and want to do everything she does, but we also fight some. My cousin Olivia is my best friend and i love to play with her and cry for her when I do not get to see her. My nickname is monkey and I pretty much live up to it. I am full of life and give a 100% to everything I do.

All about Emery Claire

2009-07-24T14:12:00.001-07:00

I am now 5 years old but act 15. I am a very deep thinker. Lately I have been asking lots of questions about being a Christian. I will start to kindergarten in 2weeks. I am very excited because I love to learn. I am already reading some things and want to learn to read more. I am very cautious about new things, but have become very independent lately. My mom says 5 has been good for me so far. I am a leader and am very strong willed. I have lots of friends and love spending time with them. I am a little mother to my sister and other smaller kids that I am close too. My two older cousins Tyler and Katie have been staying with us this summer and I love being around them. I have learned to swim very well this summer and swim every day. I love visiting Mim and Doe's lake house and riding the tub with Katie and Kate. We went to the beach with friends this summer and jumping waves is one of my new favorite hobbies. This is just a little about me lately.

A little behind

2009-07-24T14:08:00.000-07:00

I know it is has been a long time since I blogged. We are having a great summer. The girls and I have been able to do so many fun things. I am going to take the next couple of days to try to catch up on all of our summer activities. We have all had a great time the last month and are trying to fit as much fun into our days as we can before school starts. So, keep checking in as I attempt to catch up.

Birthday part 2

2009-06-19T18:07:00.000-07:00

We have a 5 year old!!!

2009-06-19T17:50:00.000-07:00

So I know I am a week late posting Ec's b-day pics. She had her party at Little Gym. It was lots of fun. she picked a barbie cake this year. Ec loved spending her day with her best friends and her family. Adam, Abbey, and Olivia drove down for the day to come to the party. She loved all of her gifts.

VBS 2009 is in the books

2009-06-12T15:06:00.000-07:00

Well, the week is over and I am worn out. It was a great week. We had a daily average attendance of 244 kids and raised money to buy over 40 bibles for local foster kids. We had an amazing group of workers!!! Everything went extremely smooth. The kids had a great time. I stayed so busy that I did not take pictures but will post some from a friend when I get some. On Thursday we had a good number of kids pray to receive Christ. We are going to be counseling with these kids and families the next two weeks. Personally, my two had a blast and loved every minute of VBS. I have the best job ever!!!!

To God be the Glory!!!

2009-06-06T11:41:00.000-07:00

The song " To God be the Glory" keeps going through my head today. We start VBS on Monday. We have 200 children registered. Last year our total was 140. We are very excited about what God will do this week in the lives of our kids. We starting preparing earlier this year and it made a world of difference. This week has not been as crazy as usual. The decorations look amazing. We had an awesome team that did the decorations and the fact that our pastor allowed us to go ahead and decorate the whole church and not wait till Sunday afternoon has been a big help. If you live here I would love for your kids to join us as we take a trip with the Crocodile Dock Crew. If you are not local please pray for our church and our workers this week.

Let them be little

2009-05-29T11:50:00.000-07:00

At Ec's graduation last week they had a slide show. The last song was called let them be little. It was one of those songs that if a bunch of people were not around I would have balled my eyes out. I am putting the song lyrics at the end of the post. I did hear the song again today and I did cry like a little baby. I can't beleive Ecwill be in Kindergarten and Ella is definetely not a baby anymore. I love the stage they are at right now, and would not trade it for anything,but it is bittersweet. They fill my life with so much joy each day. As I type right now they are pretending to have their high school graduation. They have so much fun pretending to be teenagers, but I know I will blink and they will really be teenagers. I am so blessed to have these two amazing gifts from God in my life.
Let Them Be little

I can remember when you fit in the palm of my hand.You felt so good in it; no bigger than a minute.How it amazes me you're changin' with every blink.Faster than a flower blooms, they grow up all too soon. So let them be little,'Cause they're only that way for a while.Give 'em hope, give them praise,Give them love every day.Let 'em cry, let 'em giggle,Let 'em sleep in the middle,Oh, but let them be little. I never felt so much in one little tender touch.I live for those kisses, your prayers an' your wishes.An' now you're teachin' me how only a child can see.Tonight, while we're on our knees, all I ask is: Please, let them be little,'Cause they're only that way for a while.Give them hope, give them praise,Give them love every day.Let 'em cry, let 'em giggle,Let 'em sleep in the middle,Oh, but let them be little.The so innocent, precious soul:You turn around, an' it's time to let them go. So let them be little,'Cause they're only that way for a while.Give them hope, give 'em praise,Give them love every day.Let 'em cry, let 'em giggle,Let them sleep in the middle,Oh, but let them be little. Let them be little

Grad part 2

2009-05-22T17:05:00.000-07:00

Ec's graduation

2009-05-22T16:57:00.000-07:00

Well, we have a preschool graduate. Last night Ec had her graduation and it was so cute. She did a wonderful job. When she started preschool at 2 she would not sing or do anything in her school performances. So, she has come along way. They did lots of really cute songs and had several little skits. The slide show before the graduation was so sweet and yes I did cry. I know that I have turned into my mom. Ec was so excited that both sets of grandparents were there and her cousin Tyler. We had a fun night.

End of the year picnic

2009-05-22T16:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Ec's last day of school. They had a family picnic. It was lots of fun spending the day with her and her friends. Dave took off work and his parents were even able to come for the picnic. Her best friend Bailey's papa brought his horse and buggy and gave rides to the kids. We had a great time, but we will miss her wonderful teachers.

Summer Birthdays

2009-05-20T12:14:00.000-07:00

I took a cookie cake to Ec's class today for all the kids with summer b-days. She always asks when she will get to take a birthday snack to school and since she has a June birthday she does not get to take a birthday snack. So, I started when she was in the 2 year old class bringing a snack for all the summer birthdays the last week of school. We has lots of fun. I ended up staying the rest of the day and helping out. Ella had a blast at sissy's big school as she calls it.

Mother's Day

2009-05-10T17:58:00.000-07:00

I had a very good Mother's Day. We started celebrating Thursday with a Mother's day tea at Emery Claire's school. It was very sweet. They made cute gifts and a sweet video for us to watch. Saturday we went to the Mother's Day tea party at church. It was lots of fun. My mom, Ec and I went. I think maybe next year Ella will be old enough to go. Saturday night the kids and Dave decided to go ahead and give me my gift since Sunday's are very busy for me. they gave me a real pearl necklace. I was very excited. I have real pearl earrings but not a necklace. This was also the first gift that Dave has ever picked out for me all on his own. I love it!!!! We did a Mother's Day Breakfast for all of the preschool mom this morning. It was very sweet and I think everyone enjoyed it. After church we went out to lunch and then have enjoyed a restful afternoon at home. It has been a great weekend.

Ella's Big Boo Boo

2009-05-10T17:54:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday when I finished staff meeting Brooke told me that I needed to call Rhonda, who is Ella's babysitter because Ella had fallen off the bed. I called Rhonda and she said Ella was fine, but had carpet burn on her face. Well, when I went to get Ella that afternoon this is what her face looked like. The black eye was from her falling in the tub the night before. She is definitely our little Monkey

Dentist Day

2009-05-04T15:33:00.000-07:00

Today Emery Claire and Ella had dentist appointments. This was Ella's first time to go. All they did was just look at her teeth. She did very well. She did not really want to sit in his chair but she sat in my lap and laid over into his lap so he could check her teeth. She did great and he said her teeth look great. Emery Claire has been to the dentist several times before but today they did her first real cleaning and took x-rays. She was a trooper. She went by herself since Ella's appointment was at the same time. After Ella was finished I walked over to the other side where EC was and checked on her. She had done so well with the x-rays and everything. So, all in all Dentist Day was a success!

Panoply

2009-04-30T06:46:00.000-07:00

Friday night Dave and I took the girls to Panoply for a few hours. We had a lot of fun. There were a lot of things of children to do and make. There were dance groups there and also lots of bands. The girls loved dancing to the music.

Favorite Easter Pic

2009-04-14T18:37:00.001-07:00

Easter

2009-04-14T18:08:00.000-07:00

Sunday we had Easter with my family. Dave got home at 2 am that morning so we were very excited to have him home. As a side note, Dave had a awesome trip and has promised to write a post about his trip very soon. OK back to Easter, we had a great service at church and then a wonderful time with family. My brother and his family came and my cousin Rhonda and her family. We had a great meal and an egg hunt. Enjoy the pics.

Auburn Pics

2009-04-14T17:58:00.000-07:00

Trip to Auburn

2009-04-13T13:48:00.000-07:00

Last week the girls and I went to visit friends in Auburn. We left Wednesday and came home Friday. It was a very good break while Dave was gone. We stayed with my friends Leann and her family. Leann was my bible study leader while I was in college. Leann, her husband Lemar, and all four of their children were in our wedding. They have Brad 16, Lauren 14, and Andrew and Anna Claire 12 year old twins. The girls had so much fun with their kids .Emery Claire was stuck to Lauren and Ella thought Brad was so funny. The twins were good helpers with them also. Thursday we had lunch with my friend Elizabeth and her 4 year old son Charlie. Our good friend Mandy and her two little girls drove over for the day from Abbeville. The kids loved playing together and we loved catching up. I felt like we were back in college. We enjoyed one of our all time favorite meals of turkey wraps and sweet potato chips from Amsterdam cafe. Of course we had to get the kids Burger King. Thursday night Leann and Lemar invited some more friends over for a cookout and egg hunt. Mrs. Patti the children's director at Lakeview and her husband came. I served as Mrs. Patti's summer intern while I was in college. She is such a sweet lady and does a great job at what she does. My friend Anna and her family came also. Anna and I were both special ed majors and had all of our classes together. Anna is also Mrs. Patti's daughter. We had so much fun catching up. We left Friday and headed home. Our trip ended with an hour stop in the Cracker Barrel in Cullman due to tornadoes. It was very exciting, especially since Emery Claire is terrified of storms. I did not take as many pictures as I would like. My computer is messing up so I will post pics when I can.

Update on Dave's mission trip

2009-03-30T11:57:00.001-07:00

Well, this is the week. Dave leaves at 2am. Friday morning for his trip. They will travel Friday, Saturday and Sunday morning. Sunday is the day that they will navigate the rapids. This is the part that I am most nervous about. Please pray Sunday morning for their safety while doing this. They will begin working with the people of the village of Raiti Sunday afternoon. Not only will they be designing the runway but they will show the Jesus Film several times in the village. Please pray for the salvation of the people of the village. Thursday they will navigate the rapids to return home.Dave will arrive home around 2 am Easter morning for a short name before going to church. Please keep the team in your prayers this week as the prepare to leave and as they travel. As I posted earlier that I was having a hard time with him leaving. I am better. I know that this is God's will for Dave and I have a peace about the trip. I just hate that I will not be able to talk to him. I have planned several thing to keep me busy. I am still daily telling Satan to leave him alone about this trip. I am resting in the comfort of Jesus and knowing that we are following His will. I think it is amazing that Dave will be one of the first people to speak the name of Christ to this village. He is very excited about this trip. Thank you each for your prayers.

Girls Day!

2009-03-28T12:16:00.000-07:00

Every year my dad takes Dave and my brother the the NCAA basketball tournament. This year they went to Memphis. So, Abbey and Olivia came to spend time with. We went to breakfast this morning at Little Rosies and then went to Bridgestreet to walk around and let the girls play. They had so much fun. After our morning out we came home for a tea party and fashion show. They have so much together.

Playhouse Disney Live

2009-03-28T12:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the girls and I went with some friends to see Playhouse Disney Live! We had 2 row seats. The kids loved it. Emery Claire and Bailey danced in asile the whole time. Ella and Elijah were amazed at the characters. Ella liked Mickey the best and kept waving at him. All the kids were so good.

Spring Break Fun!

2009-03-18T19:47:00.000-07:00

Today the girls and I went on a picnic with my friend Kendra and her little girl Kadence. We went to my mom's school and played on the playground. The girls has a lot of un. It was a great day to be outside.

Kindergarten Registration

2009-03-12T14:06:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my sweet little Emery Claire will be going to Kindergarten in August. On Tuesday we went to enroll her. They did a basic screening on the kids just to see what they already knew. She felt like big stuff getting to go and take her "test". For those of you who do not know Emery Claire's principal will be my mother. So, she is already very comfortable at the school. The lady that was doing the screening had taken the little girl that was in front of EC and shown her the playground and different parts of the school. Well, when EC finished Kim was taking her back to me and EC said to Kim. " Are you not going to show me around the school like you did Emma Grace." Kim said well Emery Claire I thought you knew where everything was. EC said I do, but my mom said I was to be treated just like the other kids. I think that I may have done too good of a job telling her she was no different than anyone else and she is to do exactly what the other kids do. She said the thing is looking most forward to is calling her Mim, Mrs. Plant

Letting Go

2009-03-05T04:44:00.001-08:00

I would like to take a few minutes to share what God has been doing in my life this week. Dave called me early Monday and wanted to talk about the possibility of him going on a mission trip. The trip is in 6 weeks to an unreached people group in Nicaragua. Dave and two other guys will be going to build an air strip so that these 3,000 people are reachable. They will have go in a boat and the navigate about a group of waterfalls. I will have no contact with him for over a week. Well, I wanted to scream No you can't go and lay down in the floor and throw a 2 year old Ella fit. As bad as I wanted to do that I knew in my heart it was God's plan for him. I know you are thinking why do you not want him to go. IT is a control issue. For those of you who know me really well know that I like to have control. When I can't talk to him, I have no control. As I was drying my hair Tuesday morning God really spoke to me about this. IF he wants to send my husband to help make His word accessible to 3,000 people that have never heard the name of Jesus who am I to stand in the way. I was listening to my Ipod while drying my hair and I have a son called "I am Letting GO" on there. The song says I am loosing control beyond my comfort zone and talks about the fear of the unknown. That is exactly where I am . SO God is taking me out of my comfort and zone and showing once again I have no control. Please pray for me over the next 6 weeks. I have already had to tell Satan to shut up and leave me alone 20 times a days the past few days. Pray that I would not let Satan have a stronghold. Pray that I would rely on my Prince of Peace during this time. Please pray for Dave as he prepares to leave. He is very excited. The guy that is leading this is a civil engineer also, so they are both very knowledgeable of what needs to happen. I know this may also sound silly, but control is something that I struggle with daily. Thanks for your prayers during this time.

Sweet Prayers

2009-03-04T08:28:00.000-08:00

Last night our niece Olivia spent the night with us. Dave and got all the girls together on Emery Claire's bed for our bible story and prayers. Emery Claire prayed first and it was so sweet. She prayed that God would help Olivia to feel like she was at home and not be worried about her mom and dad. She also prayed that God would help Ella to let her light shine for Him. That melted my heart.

More remodel

2009-03-01T10:52:00.001-08:00

The Kitchen remodel

2009-03-01T10:40:00.000-08:00

The kitchen in complete except for switch plate covers. I am still on a hunt for the ones that I want. I love it!!!!! It looks like a different kitchen.

Snow in Alabama!!!!

2009-03-01T10:29:00.000-08:00

We woke up this morning to a little bit of snow on the ground. It was enough for roads to be a little difficult to drive on. So, church was cancelled. The girls enjoyed playing in the snow. This was Ella's first time to see snow. Emery Claire had seen it once before.

Emery Claire's Valentine party

2009-02-12T11:54:00.000-08:00

Today was Emery Claire's party at school. My mom kept Ella for me since she was sick. Emery Claire had super cute valentine cards that Brooke made for her. The party was lots of fun. They has heart shaped sandwiches and other finger foods. For dessert they decorated cupcakes. They were very cute.

Missing our sweet Olivia

2009-02-11T12:39:00.000-08:00

Lately the girls have been missing their cousin a whole lot. They love to play with her so much. On Thursday Emery Claire had to take something that began with an O to school and she took a picture of Olivia. Ella has walked around for the past couple days saying : I play with Livvy. If you fix Ella drink or snack she wants to take one to Livvy's house. It is so cute.

Happy Birthday Gram!!

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

Happy BirthdayGram! We hope you have a great day.

Thankful Thursday

2009-01-22T16:09:00.000-08:00

This Sunday we are going to 2 services and 2 Sunday School. We are transitioning from rotating nursery workers, to 2 sets of weekly teachers. I have a lot work that needs to be finished by Sunday. I am very thankful for my sweet husband who is taking the day off work tomorrow to help me get caught up.

I know it has been awhile

2009-01-20T19:04:00.001-08:00

I know it has been a long time since I have updated. My mom who usually does not have time to read my blog asked last night if I was going to update any time soon. This year has been so busy this far. I started the year off by spending a week in Nashville at the Children's Pastors conference. I went with two of my co workers. We had a great time a learned a lot. Dave's mom came to help take care of the girls while I was away. I am so thankful that she came to help out. We are in the middle of remodeling the preschool department at church and we this Sunday we are going to 2 worship services and 2 Sunday Schools. So I have been working hard with all of this.
Emery Claire has started back to school and is still loving it. She has really grown up. Her class started having show and tell every week since they came back from Christmas break, she loves it. Dave got a Wii for Christmas and Emery Claire loves to play Wii.
Ella is talking up a storm and is too funny. She has such a sweet a heart and adores her big sister.
Dave is still loving his job with the City of Huntsville. He was so great to have him home with us during the holidays. It was also great that he gets little holidays too. Over Christmas we heard that his old company has made major cut backs. Dave would either taken a major pay cut or possibly lost his job. We are so thankful that he was given this job when he was. We had a rough summer making the transition, but God is faithful and provided for our needs and has given Dave a great job.
So that is basically what has been consuming our time this year so far. We are looking forward to this year and what God has in store for our family.

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-01T20:35:00.000-08:00

Dave and I went away for New Year's Eve for the first time since we have had kids. We went with Brooke and John to Ross Bridge Resort in Birmingham and to dinner at the Melting Pot. We had a great dinner last night and today we all enjoyed at day at the spa at Ross Bridge. It was very fun and relaxing. I miss my girls when I am away, but I needed a little break.

Christmas Present from Mim and Doe

2008-12-31T13:03:00.000-08:00

My parents got the girls a swing set for Christmas and it was delivered and installed yesterday. Here are some pics from the first go on the swing set.

Ella's new hair cut

2008-12-31T12:58:00.000-08:00

Trina cut Ella's hair yesterday. It was her first real hair cut. I think it is so cute.

More Christmas Pics

2008-12-30T20:30:00.000-08:00

Christmas Pictures

2008-12-30T20:18:00.000-08:00

A Very Merry Christmas

2008-12-27T19:43:00.001-08:00

We had a great Christmas! This was probably one of our best so far. The girls had so much fun. We started our celebrations on Christmas Eve. Adam and Abbey came into to town around 11:00. We finished the cooking for our dinner and decorated Christmas cookies. My Uncle Gary and his family come in shortly after Adam and Abbey. This year my Aunt Jane's mom Mama Jackie joined us for Christmas. We went to church for the candlelight service and then came home and had a wonderful dinner and opened gifts. My cousin Tyler is a fantastic cook and and did a great job on the meat. The girls got so many great gifts. My Aunt and Uncle gave all three girls different Disney Princess outfits complete with purses, gloves, necklaces, and crowns. They loved them. My parents gave my girls a new swing set, since it was too big to go under the tree my mom wrapped up a picture. The swing set should be installed next week. The girls also received very fun toys from My brother and his family and my cousin Rhonda and her family. A tradition that we do as a family every Christmas Eve is to read the Christmas story using place cards that have a scripture on each one. This year we also did What God Wants For Christmas. That is really fun and it on the kids level. It is made by the Resurrection Egg people. Christmas Morning Santa came and the girls were so excited about their gifts. They got so very much. We had lunch with my Dad's family. They just live next door so we did not have to go far. We had a great time visiting with each other. Christmas afternoon Dave's parents came into town. The girls once again got a ton of gifts. I fixed dinner and we visited with each other and watched the girls play. We also enjoyed Dave's gift from my parents, a Wii. I think this is his all time favorite gift. He is addicted. It was so special this year to be able to teach Emery Claire the true meaning of Christmas and her understand. She asked a lot of questions, but it has been neat to watch her think about Jesus and try to understand it all. I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. I will post pictures later this week.

Happy Birthday Jesus Party

2008-12-19T19:29:00.000-08:00

Thursday Emery Claire's class had a birthday party for Jesus. It was lots of fun. Ella enjoyed herself at the party also.

School Christmas Program

2008-12-19T19:14:00.000-08:00

Emery Claire had her Christmas Program at school on Wednesday. This was her first time to wear a costume. She was a star and did a very good job. This week was super busy with Christmas activities, my birthday, and Dave being out of town all week. I had great help though. Ashlen and Heather helped out this week. With my mom recovering from her knee surgery, she and my Dad are limited on how much they can help right now. Mom is doing very well with her therapy and recovery. Here are some Christmas Play pictures.

Showing Off Our Cute Snowman Outfits

2008-12-15T13:20:00.000-08:00

Here are couple of pictures of the girls in their snowman outfits that Trina made. I feel in love with these outfits.

Cookie Baking

2008-12-15T13:13:00.000-08:00

Our preschool department at church had a cookie decorating party. We all decorated Christmas cookies and then we delivered them to the local police department and HEMSI office. This was our way of saying thank you for keeping us safe. The children really enjoyed it. Emery Claire and Ella had a great time, but Emery Claire got shy when we saw the police officers and ambulance drivers.

Preschool Handbell choir

2008-12-15T13:09:00.000-08:00

Two weeks ago the preschool choir did bells in church. They did a really good job. Here are a couple of pics of Emery Claire

My very eventful week

2008-12-05T12:20:00.000-08:00

Well, this week has been one that I think I will never forget. It all started on Tuesday. Tuesday is my staff meeting day so Ella stays with a baby sitter that day. When I picked Ella up Rhonda told me that Ella had not had a wet diaper all day. She had a whole lot to drink but no wet diapers. I called the doctor and by the time they called me back she had gone 12 hours and had even more to drink. The doctor said that if she had not gone by in the morning bring her in. I talked to my friend Jessica her is a nurse and also a mom and she said if it was her child she would take him to the ER. So, we head that way and shortly after we get there she goes to the bathroom. So we went ahead and left since it was super crowded. She was back to normal and has not had any more problems. Well, on to Wednesday. Wednesday night I was at church back in the preschool department getting all the kids checked in and settled and a lady and three teenage girls walk up to the welcome desk. The lady told me that two of the girls had gotten off the bus at her house with her daughter and said they were being abused and did not want to go home. She said she needed help would I help her. So, i took a deep breathe and off I went. I finished with the situation and got home around 12:00 am. That brings me to today. Ella and I ran to the bank this morning before we had to pick Emery Claire up from school. We went through the drive thru and it was taken a extra long time. The bank I went to was not in the best part of town and Dave even said while i was talking to him on the phone that he would rather me not go to that bank any more. I finally got through the line. Dave called shortly after that to inform me that the bank was robbed about 2 minutes after I left. So, I am thank God for His protection over me and my family this week. I think I need to lock myself in my house for a while. This week has been way more eventful than I would like.

Happy Birthday Jesus

2008-12-01T20:09:00.000-08:00

Well, I decided that I would try something different this year for our Christmas cards. One of my ideas was to get a birthday cake for Jesus and have the girls blow out the candles. Here are a couple attempts. I thought they were pretty cute.

Christmas Pj's

2008-12-01T19:14:00.001-08:00

Christmas Time is Here!

2008-12-01T19:06:00.000-08:00

Saturday we decorated the house for Christmas. My mom came over and watched since she is very bored not being able to do much. We put up 2 trees, the Christmas village, decorate the den and living room, and put a little tree in the girls room. It was a day full. This is the first year that Emery Claire really helped decorate. She loved it!