Here's Our Story

January Journals: Day 31 (Part 2)

2012-01-31T22:37:00.000-06:00

Here's the video, as promised! Every night before putting Jacob to bed, we thank God for another day with Jacob. May God grant us many more days ahead!

January Journals: Day 29, 30, and 31

2012-01-31T09:06:00.000-06:00

Recovering...

Somewhere amidst the fun of the weekend, Jacob got a nasty cold/virus. He's been coughing, not able to sleep well, and his nose has been running like crazy! So, for the past few days we have been taking it easy around here. We're resting, rocking, and drinking lots of orange juice! Ha!

I've been working on a video for Jacob to end the January Journals, but still trying to figure out how to post it...Any bloggers out there know how to do this on the new interface?!?!?!

Check back soon!

January Journals: Day 28

2012-01-28T22:03:00.001-06:00

Football Party

Ever since we went to a birthday party for a friend back in November, Jacob has been talking about his 3 year party. Originally, he said he wanted an "Orange" party and I was unsure how we would pull that off. But, luckily for us, he changed his mind and wanted a football party. Thank you Jacob for picking something that would be totally easy to decorate (since the Super Bowl is right around the corner). Ha! So here's the pictures from his "Football Party!"

Balloon tied to the pants...just like last year!

Chocolate covered strawberries made to look like footballs!

Some of our Handy helpers! :)

Uncle Buh being the ring toss game... Ha!

Cheese!

The football cake

Opening presents and cards. This card was a HIT!

Gifts!

Eating his cupcake, from the bottom! Ha! He turned it upside down and ate the cake part first!

Happy 3rd Birthday, Jacob!

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 27

2012-01-27T21:48:00.000-06:00

Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey's Greatest Show on Earth...

For Jacob's birthday we got tickets to the circus! We have been talking about it with him for a while and he was very excited about going to the circus for his birthday. He talked about seeing the Elephants mostly. And...his favorite part was the Elephants. In fact, he said they were "the best." Here's some pictures from the evening!

Daddy and Jacob waiting for the circus to begin. Jacob picked out a flashing light with an elephant on it. :)

A picture of the arena before the show started.

The tight rope walkers, they were RIGHT in front of us!

Mommy and Jacob!

We all made it to the circus...Aunt Vonnie, Agga, Chappy, Aunt Jenny, Uncle Buh...

...Uncle Biggie, Misty...

...and Papa and G-Jo too. What a fun time!

The jugglers juggling fire!

One of the elephants...

Jacob's expression for MOST of the show. Ha!

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 26

2012-01-26T20:11:00.004-06:00

Happy 3rd Birthday Jacob!

Tonight we celebrated Jacob's birthday by going to eat his favorite food, RICE, BEANS, and ENCHILADA. We decided to go to Chuy's. It was yummy and Jacob even got some sopapillas at the end of his meal.

(more to come at the end of the month about my reflections on his 3 years...)

A group picture. G-Jo, Jeff, Julie, Jacob, and Papa Bear
There was so much food, that we had to take a couple to go boxes. Stuffed!

This is the "after too much food" face from Jacob. Ha!

Jacob even got to wear the Chuy's Hat for being the Birthday Boy!

At the restaurant, being silly with Papa's Phone...

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 25

2012-01-25T13:14:00.000-06:00

I just had to add this picture of Jackson. He's sometimes the forgotten member of our family. He's a great dog and allows Jacob to do just about anything to him! We love Jackson!

Sharing Jackson's bed. :) Sweet.

January Journals: Day 24

2012-01-24T13:11:00.000-06:00

Notice anything in particular about his quesadilla today???

January Journals: Day 23

2012-01-23T14:14:00.002-06:00

Play-Dough

Rolling the dough to make the base of our "cars"

Mommy's car is done, but Jacob's needs some work...Ha!

Moving onto something else with Daddy

"What are you looking at?"

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 22

2012-01-22T14:07:00.000-06:00

This may not seem messy to you, but there were toys all over this room today...

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 21

2012-01-21T13:31:00.000-06:00

Coal Train Railroad

Today we went to see a local music group called Coal Train Railroad. They are a kids jazz band, and perform all around, but we've always seen them at the Library. They're great!

G-Jo and Jacob waiting for the show to start.

Singing the song about getting our wiggles out. Ha. Kids were dancing all over the place!

Watching the show, Jacob is getting his wiggles out...out of his hands, that is. :)

Another look at the band. So fun!

P.S. For those of you that have been looking every day for an update, I truly appologize!!! Jacob's followers are going to hate me! Ha! We've been super busy! But, I hope the next few posts will make it up to you!

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 20

2012-01-20T13:14:00.000-06:00

The Tuley Airport

Jacob loves playing with his airplanes. He usually will have one or two of these in bed with him when we check on him in the middle of the night. Today, he's set up an airport.

The rest of the planes that didn't fit on the ottoman. We made sure the shuttles were upright and ready for take-off.

3, 2, 1, blast off.....

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 19

2012-01-19T13:13:00.000-06:00

Bowling with G-Jo

Setting up the pins

G-Jo showing Jacob how to roll the ball and hit the pins...

...and a complete miss. Notice the ball ended up by G-Jo...

So, this is how Jacob decided to solve that problem...he just knocked them down with his hands. He would yell, "I got em all!!"

...and of course, Jacob pretended the pin was a baseball bat. Ha!

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 18

2012-01-18T13:03:00.000-06:00

G-Jo is here!!!!!

Each morning that G-Jo has been here, he has gone in her room and climbed into bed with her while she reads him books. He's asking her to play every second of the day, and telling her to come with him into his room too. He's loving all the attention!

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 17

2012-01-17T13:02:00.000-06:00

Another thing that Jacob loves to do is Color! He especially likes to make just one line on each page, and then turn the page. So fun!

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 16

2012-01-16T12:58:00.000-06:00

Just hanging out around here...

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 15

2012-01-15T20:54:00.003-06:00

This is the game we played tonight!

This is the face of the winner of that game!

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 14

2012-01-14T21:53:00.003-06:00

Today we took Jacob to the Downtown Library for a Magic Show. It was pretty fun to watch the kids' reactions to the Magician. Jacob's reaction was just like the picture below...the whole time. He was studying and observing every move, unless he was grabbing some goldfish. Ha!

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 13

2012-01-13T20:00:00.000-06:00

Things Jacob's been doing lately...

He will get these fuzzy sticks and pull them all out of the bag. I've discovered that it's easier to put them in a large bundle, then put them back in the bag. Ha!

He also LOVES books, and especially loves sitting in his car to read them. Ha!

He's also been playing with his "computer" alot too. Jeff was working one night, and I put Jacob at the table with him. I'm not ashamed to say that I "posed" this picture. Ha!

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 12

2012-01-12T20:33:00.001-06:00

SNOW! That's right, we had our first snow of the season!

It was so fun to see Jacob's face as he watched the snow fall and watched Jackson play and eat the snow. Maybe he will like the snow this year, as apposed to last year in this post... Ha!

Jacob and Jackson looking out the window at the falling snow.

Saying, "Snow!"

Jackson is eagerly waiting for that sliding glass door to be opened...Jacob is too.

This is what Jackson does with the snow...Eats it!

And this is what Jacob thinks of Jackson eating snow! Ha!

Jacob is trying to reach out and touch the snow.

There were some good size flakes and this picture does a better job than the others at capturing that...

Cute smile to go with a cute, cute, boy!

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 11

2012-01-11T20:31:00.001-06:00

Jacob says, "Night Night to Everyone" and if you were here in person, he would give each person a hug and say "nigh nigh" in a cute little person voice. :) His bedtime routine has been the same for a while now, but as he's growing up, he's participating in things much more. The routine follows something like this, potty, bath, lotion up, brush teeth, comb hair, say night night to everyone (this includes Jackson), get in bed, read a story, say prayers, half close the door, and fall to sleep (relatively soon after we leave). When we check on him before we go to bed, he usually has a few books with him that he has fallen asleep with, and occasionally you'll find a car or two under the covers. So funny!

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 10

2012-01-10T21:34:00.001-06:00

Since Blogger still refuses to allow me to upload pictures from my computer, I am doing this post from my phone. We went to storytime today at the Downtown Library. The Professor invites the kids to come and sit on the stage at the very end and we sing/read, What a Wonderful World. Jacob likes to sit right in the middle every time we go. So cute.

This pic is just outside of the storytime theater. He is so big!

Until tomorrow...

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January Journals: Day 9

2012-01-09T17:21:00.000-06:00

Pu-cakes (aka: Cupcakes)

We had some cupcakes leftover from the party on Sunday so Jacob had been asking for one since they were sitting on the counter. :) So here's the enjoyment of the cupcake. He only likes the cake part of the cupcake, not the icing. So funny.

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 8

2012-01-08T21:18:00.001-06:00

Balloons!

Today, Jacob got balloons. "Balloons for Everybody" he said as he carried them up and down the hall and through the kitchen. He jumped up and down with excitement about these balloons. But, he only got these balloons because....

...these fabulous people in this picture below had a party today for the THREE children they are adopting and bringing home from Ethiopia very soon, and the balloons were part of the decorations. Jacob was jumping up and down about Balloons, and I am jumping up and down for my dearest friends Jackie and Mike, and thier journey to a new family!

Yay for Balloons, Yay for kids, Yay for showers/parties, and Yay for friends!

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 7

2012-01-07T21:06:00.000-06:00

Agga came for a visit!

Cheese! Agga's eyes are open! Hooray! :)

Reading a book is always a favorite thing to do in Jacob's World!

January Journals: Day 6

2012-01-06T19:22:00.005-06:00

I know I've already posted this week about Jacob loving stickers...but these pictures don't compare to the previous ones. Today, Jacob found all the stickers that have his name on them and decided to put them all over two of his coloring book pages. He sat for a good thirty minutes taking one after the other and putting them into the book. He kept saying, "I almost done. Then I come and get you." I also heard him say, "Wait a minute, I can't do it." Quickly followed by, "Oh, there you go." It was quite the commentary! Here's some pictures of the event!

Jackson was supervising (sleeping) the whole time!

Saying "CHEESE!!!!"

The finished product.

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 5

2012-01-05T20:34:00.000-06:00

These pictures are not necessarily from today, but it's something from the month of December that I did not put on the blog yet... So here you go!

Jacob had his first night of bowling back on December 6th. We are a part of a fabulous organization called CCSI, Inc. Every year they host a "Family Fun Night" for all the families involved, and it was quite the adventure! There were games, rollerskating, bumper cars, pizza, and bowling. What a good time!

You can tell by the smile on his face that he was having such a good time!

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 4

2012-01-04T17:28:00.000-06:00

Jacob loves to color on his easel and then erase it with a "wep wipe." He likes to make crosses and make vertical and horizontal lines. We've been working on his letters, but the only one he can write is the letter A, and sometimes W (which is his favorite letter).

Then after he was done playing with his easel he jumped in bed and had a giggle fest about throwing pillows out of the bed. So silly!

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 3

2012-01-03T16:56:00.000-06:00

Jacob loves stickers and coloring. He will take an entire page of stickers and place it all over himself, the coloring book; wherever!

Jacob says, "Cheese!"

Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 2

2012-01-02T21:54:00.004-06:00

You've got it! We're POTTY TRAINING! Can I just say that I am so proud of this guy! He's doing really well. For the first time today, he told us beforehand that he needed to go number 2...and he DID it in the POTTY! It was a huge success! However, I can also say that this is not my favorite part of parenting. Yuck. :)

I asked him to show me his potty.

So proud of being a big boy!

Have a great day! Until tomorrow...

January Journals: Day 1

2012-01-01T20:34:00.004-06:00

It's that time of year again. The time of year that I take an entire month to post nothing but Jacob! Since this is his birthday month, I like to take a moment of each day to post something he's doing, saying, thinking, or being... Have fun watching him this month.

Here's your first peek at what he's doing alot of lately...

He LOVES to get his boots out of his closet and put them on. He even wore them to the library for "Storytime." So sweet!

Welcome Cousin Shelby!

2011-12-31T20:00:00.000-06:00

My sister welcomed another baby girl into our family on December 27, 2011. Shelby Keelyn Lopez made her arrival at 2:54PM weiging 6lbs. 7oz. and measuring 17.5 inches long. She was so beautiful! I am so blessed that I was able to be there for the arrival and able to spend precious time with my sister and family.

Christmas 2011 (Lots of Pictures!)

2011-12-31T16:00:00.000-06:00

Christmas was spent with the Tuley Family in Atlanta this year. It was a memorable one! What we enjoyed most this year was getting to enjoy the reactions Jacob had to the gifts from Santa. What fun!

The Tuley Family (minus Biggie)

Watching the train go around the tree and the presents!

Opening one of his "Days of Christmas" presents. This one was a Buzz and Woody ornament for the tree.

Cheese!

Uncle Buh took Daddy and Jacob to a train museum! How fun!

What do I do to make it go?

Christmas Eve...

We had a brunch at J.Christopher's, took family pictures, discovered Jacob's park, and made a Gingerbread House....

GiGi was there too!

Opening another "Days of Christmas" present. Coordinating Peanuts characters playing Christmas music. One of the "hits" of Christmas.

Christmas Eve brunch at J. Christopher's. Jacob is sorting all the jellies. Ha!

Running with Agga down the ramp!

The little bench!

After brunch, Santa came to check on the quality of "Jacob's park..."

This is Jacob yelling, "It's Santa" as he watches from the deck...

Jacob's park

So precious!

Ready to go down the slide!

Running along the wobbly bridge...

Swinging with Uncle Buh and learning to pump his legs!

Christmas Eve...making a Gingerbread House. Jacob is hard at work. Ha!

Opening and closing the door...

You always have to eat some of the candy...

Jacob decided to put the candy IN the house instead of ON the house. It was pretty funny!

Then...the inside of the house began to cave in... We were all very sad.

But, we made a tree and that made it all better!

Jacob and Agga with the finished product. A beautiful cookie tree and a non earthquake proof Gingerbread House! :) It was just perfect!

Christmas Morning...

Jacob woke up and was made to wait at the top of the stairs until all was ready. As he walked into the living room, he discovered that Santa had brought him JUST what he asked for...a ROBOT and a CANDY CANE. His reaction was about what we expected; calm, collected, and observant. But once he realized his robot was able to be played with, it was all smiles!

Since Uncle Biggie was coming in later that day, we decided to Face Time with him so he could be there with us on Christmas morning. Here's Jacob showing Uncle Biggie his robot.

Jacob opened the Airplane from Uncle Biggie.

We got ready and went to church on Christmas morning, then opened some more gifts later in the day. Here's Jacob and Mommy reading his new Biscuit books.

Opening presents...

Chappy, being silly!

When Biggie arrived we opened the rest of the presents and enjoyed our toys!

A great picture of Agga, Biggie, and Misty.

GiGi and Aunt Vonnie

Uncle Buh and Aunt Jenny

We even had a giant fish swimming around the living room! Ha!

We are always mindful of the gift God gave us in Jacob, but we are especially mindful in this season of the gift God gave us through Jesus Christ. It is a season of giving, remembering, and sharing. We praise God for allowing us to be Jacob's parents and that we can raise him to know that God that saved him in the beginning of his life, and saves us all through Jesus.

Christmas Festival

2011-12-19T13:19:00.002-06:00

A couple of Sunday's ago we had a Family Christmas Festival at our church. It was great! Jacob got to make a couple of Christmas ornaments, decorate cookies, make a gingerbread house, and even got to meet Santa! Jacob has been talking about Santa alot more this year, than lastyear, so off we went...

Making an ornament...he's so grown up!

Decorating cookies...

Gingerbread house making...

All done...and not looking at the camera!

...and of course a visit with Santa. I love this sweet picture! He's looking so dapper in his sweater vest and bowtie! And, yes, he did tell Santa what he wanted for Christmas...he wants a ....oh, you'll have to wait until Christmas to find out! Ha!

Merry Christmas!

Decorating for Christmas

2011-12-10T21:39:00.001-06:00

One of my favorite things to do at Christmas is put up decorations! This year Jacob has really started to "understand" Christmas and notice all the lights, ornaments, and espeically Santa. ;)

What a precious smile while hanging ornaments!

Daddy made homemade hot chocolate for us to have a decorating break. It was yummy!

Of course we have MORE than one tree in the house!!!!

This is the real tree after it's all decorated! Yay!

Our stockings are hung by the chimney with care, LOTS of it! I finally made our stockings! I've had the material and supplies for over 2 years but just got around to putting them together. I'm pretty proud of how they turned out. I was able to embroider our names and also the snowflakes on mine, the stars on Jacob's, and the decorations on Jeff's.

We finished the tree in the evening, so the next day it was time to put the lights on the house! Jacob wanted to help Daddy with the lights. Mostly he just wanted to be on the ladder. :)

Jacob was checking all the sticks in the yard while we were putting lights on the house.

This is what Jacob's hair looked like when I pulled the hat off! Ha!

More sticks!

Once it was dark I grabbed a picture of our lights! So pretty!

Merry Christmas!!

Thanksmas

2011-12-03T17:10:00.001-06:00

It's been over two weeks since we've posted anything, but it's not because we haven't been doing anything...we've actually been really busy! We just returned from a week of family time in California, and what a good time it was!!! We celebrated Thanksgiving, and had an early Christmas, with Papa and G-Jo. We called it Thanksmas! Here's the pictures from our time in what Jacob calls, "Cal-i-for-na!"

G-Jo and Jacob reading a book. One of his favorite things to do!

Sidewalk chalk is so fun!

Papa and Jacob decorating the Christmas tree with "or-ments up here"

A quick picture...Smile!

The tree is complete!

Jacob has learned how to do a summersault and this is his smile after he complete's one...he's showing off for Papa and G-Jo.

Picture time with Papa and G-Jo.

Opening gifts...Cars 2 was a BIG hit!

The theme was all things Lightning McQueen, so here's a picture of Jacob looking at his new pillowcase!

Watching Cars 2. With a light up McQueen lamp and new Cars 2 Busy Book.

Making cut out Rice Crispie Treats! Yum!

Alisa came over for a visit! Friends!

Can't remember why we were doing this, but we're saying "Aghhhhhh" and I thought it was funny!

Thanksgiving morning, getting ready to head to church to meet with GUMBO. The group, GUMBO, gets together weekly to feed the homeless in Riverside, mostly around the building, and they made sure to deliver meals on Thanksgiving day too!

Jacob on the swings at church before we deliver food.

The GUMBO group.

The Thanksgiving table all set up.

The cousins are reading with Jacob...How sweet!

Papa and Jacob.

Jacob loved being in "Papa's Truck" and going "over the bumps." Every time he would feel the truck going over he would yell out, "whoa bump" and laugh!

Of course, we had to go to the park and swing and slide...

...and play the instruments at the park...

...and watch the boy play basketball...

Another BIG hit was the cuckoo clock. Jacob loved to wait for it to cuckoo, and he would say, "almost time" and "first 4 times, then one time." Meaning that it would cuckoo the number of hours and then one time on the half hour. Ha!

Saturday after Thanksgiving, we went to a Train Museum/Park. Here we are at the entrance. Fun!

Jacob at the entrance looking at the rails of the train tracks.

Here we go!

There was an area of the park where the children could push buttons to make the various train signals light up or move. It was fun to watch Jacob very intently push the buttons and observe how they worked. He's such a thinker!

A family shot on the caboose!

All smiles!

Daddy and Jacob looking out the top window of the caboose!

Walking on the tracks of Grizzly Flats Railroad tracks...

These trains were owned by The Kimballs, one of Disney's main animation guys. These were the trains that gave Disney the idea for Disneyland!

After the Train park, we headed over to Tom's Farms. In this picture we are waiting for the carousel... This place is special because it's where Papa took Jacob before he was born. What was once an emotional and sorrowful carousel ride, was made perfect, when 3 years later Jacob could ride it for himself. Praise be to God!

Yay!

(This is the picture from three years ago, Papa is with Jacob's cousin, Audrey, and I am 5 months pregnant, just a few weeks after Jacob's CDH diagnosis)

On the Train at Tom's Farms.

It took us a little while to find this covered wagon because it was in a different place than when we took the picture three years ago...

(this is the picture from 3 years ago...)

After the carousel and train ride, Jacob rode a pony named Mr. Ed. He did so good all by himself!

One of the last days we were there, we went to the Science Center. Here, Jacob is learning about the effects of gravity. Ha!

Of course the boys had to do the flight simulator...

Papa and G-Jo showing Jacob the dinosaur.

Saying, "cheese" with the dinosaur bones.

California proved to be tons of FUN!

Did you get all that???

2011-11-20T08:50:00.001-06:00

Apparently, this morning Jacob decided to play with my phone. Somehow, he actually opened the Blogger app on my phone, wrote some message, that only he can understand, and posted it too. Either he's super super smart, or super super lucky. Either way, it was super super funny for me to look at my phone and read that my post on Blogger was successfully uploaded. Ha! So if you can tell us what he wrote, please let us know!

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2011-11-20T06:43:00.001-06:00

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A Day at the Park

2011-11-13T14:24:00.001-06:00

A Perfect Fall Day!

2011-11-08T14:35:00.002-06:00

Fall is one of the most beautiful times of year. Maybe it's seeing all of God's creativity in the colors of the trees, and the crispness in the air...its just an amazing time of year. While raking leaves is not one of the joys of fall, it does make for fun pictures!

Look, I got a stick!

Since getting a couple of things in the mail recently, Jacob has been very interested in the mailbox and likes getting as close to the edge of the street as he can, since he's not allowed in the street. Ha!

This is our neighbor's tree. The color was so vibrant that I HAD to take a picture. Amazing!

After Jeff cleaned up all the leaves, Jacob had to play some more baseball!

This is Jacob's batting position. Hilarious!

Hey You!

And hit!

Jackson was with us the whole time, even though this was the only picture with him. He loves this time of year too! He spends alot of his day outside watching the birds and eating leaves. Ha! So silly!

Happy Halloween!

2011-11-06T16:09:00.000-06:00

Halloween was successful this year. It was the first time that Jacob really understood what was going on. After we went to most of our neighbor's houses, I asked him if he wanted to go home or do one more door. He said, "One more door," then when we finished another house he would say, "One more door." He trick-or-treated our entire street and then was ready to go home. SO funny!

The Astronaut says, "Happy Halloween!"

Jacob looks like a "Winkler" here, specifically, Bob Winkler!

Ready to Trick or Treat!

At the neighbor's house!

Looks like this Astronaut had a successful mission!

ARKANBILT

2011-11-06T15:05:00.000-06:00

Yes, you read correctly in the title...its says ARKANBILT. Jacob is a torn football fan. See, his family would suggest that he be a fan of Arkansas sports teams, but he has such strong ties to Vanderbilt because of his life saving experiences there (and it's where his mama got a degree, and possibly his future University of choice, just sayin'). So, for the special occasion where Vanderbilt and Arkansas football teams play each other, Jacob is a divided fan. At least for now...however, he did predict an Arkansas Win...

Here's some pictures from "Game Day."

Here's Jacob in his bed, sporting the "Arkanbilt" shirt I made for him. Of course, Deon is with him and he is so proud of himself. For the special weekend, the whole Tuley family stayed in our house (it's not a big house) so the air mattress proved to be fun for making his bed into a "fort."

At the game, both teams were warming up. It was a little chilly to start, but warmed up nicely in the sun!

Jacob with Aunt Jenny

See, Chappy, this is how I point; with my thumb just so, and my hand right up on my face. Ha!

Enjoying the game with U-Buh and Chappy

Can't forget the snacks!

A group shot minus Agga. (she was taking the photo)

The Vandy Band making the star with a V in the middle.

There's Jacob and Agga!

Lunch was hotdogs and water. Yum!

Whoo, Pig Sooie! Go Hogs! We're all cheering in this photo, except Jacob. He was falling asleep right at the end of the game.

...and he's OUT!

What a great game!...and...Arkansas did defeat Vanderbilt, just as Jacob predicted. :)

Pumpkin Fun!

2011-11-06T14:34:00.000-06:00

It's hard to believe another year of pumpkin picking and Halloween decorating has come again. It seems like just a while ago we had decorated our first pumpkins and gone to the pumpkin patch... Jacob is still as cute as ever, although getting him to sit still long enough to take a decent picture is getting harder and harder, so moving targets and pictures of Jacob in motion are going to have to suffice this year. We did manage to take a few while he was sitting, but they were quick and to the point! Ha!

Here's Jacob sitting in the wagon with our first pumpkin choice. So cute!

It looks like he's praying over his pumpkin in this picture, maybe so!

The BIG BOY is pulling the wagon with our choice pumpkins.

Smiling Jacob...but about to get up and move...

Our two pumpkins. We got a big family one, and one for Jacob to paint.

Here's Jacob painting the eyes on his pumpkin. Jackson is supervising.

We put his handprints on the back side of the pumpkin.

Jeff pulled out the guts of the big pumpkin so I could carve it. Jacob said he wanted circle eyes, a triangle nose and a smile with teeth. Again...Jackson supervised!

Here's Jacob's pumpkin that he colored and decorated.

Here's the family pumpkin! Jacob liked that it said, "BOO" on the side.

Our precious "moving" boy and our family pumpkins!

Cardboard Boxes are FUN!

2011-10-26T22:37:00.001-05:00

Who knew a cardboard box could be so much fun?!?!

Jacob is showing me the letter M.

Of course, Jackson is right where he always likes to be.

Jacob looking for Jackson...

Jacob decided that the box was his "house" and when he lifted the flap in the back he told me it was his Garage Door. He proceeded to show me how it went "up, up, up, and down, down, down."

Adding some finishing touches on the sides...

Proof that he's the artist!

Proud of his work!

After he finished, he HAD to bring his pillow and Deon to hang out with him!

Where's Jacob? Inside his house of course!

So Fun!

Thanks for checking in with us today! Have a blessed day!

Look who joined us for breakfast!!!!

2011-10-24T23:09:00.001-05:00

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Happy Birthday Chappy!

2011-10-19T22:29:00.000-05:00

This past weekend we headed to Atlanta to celebrate Chappy's Birthday. We drove up on Thursday night so we could have all day Friday with Chappy and Agga and the family. We made some special memories and started some new traditions along the way. We played T-Ball, flew airplanes, ate birthday lunches and dinners, and went to a farm on Saturday. It seemed to go so quickly! Here's the highlights in pictures...

Daddy and Jacob playing baseball in the backyard at Chappy and Agga's house. Swing!

Jacob looks so determined here. He started swinging up and down to hit the ball, so we tried to teach him to swing "Across the body." I think it worked!

Swinging!!! With Mommy and Jackson watching!

Baseball with Daddy and Chappy!

Jacob chose one of his two trees that popped up unexpectedly in the backyard...

The boys! Precious!

Laughing. What a smile!

Airplanes are always involved somewhere... :)

Jacob is pointing at a remote control airplane that Uncle Biggie is flying around the backyard, and Jackson is watching it too. I am the only one looking at the camera! :)

Agga wanted to start a tradition that the grandchildren make a birthday lunch for Chappy...so here's a picture of Jacob making a cheese sandwich for Chappy.

Saturday morning we went to breakfast at Cracker Barrel and then headed out to Cagle's Family Farm for some fall fun!

Jacob getting ready to "jump" on the bouncing pillows.

Steady, Steady...

Of course we had to ride the pony named Punkin.

After the pony rides we walked over to the farm for the Agri-tour. Jacob saw the tunnel and took off!

Learning about milking cows.

Neither Jacob or Daddy looks very interested in the milking process... HA!

After the session on milking, we hopped onto the Hayride. Here's mommy tickling Jacob. So fun!

We forgot Jacob's sunglasses and he was having a hard time with the sun, so I gave him mine. So stylish!

When the hayride was finished we got out and fed the animals. Here's Jacob feeding the pig!

Yes, I really did this. Ha!

The family shot. So hard to get one with everyone looking...

Jacob with Chappy and Agga. Cute!

Happy 20th Birthday Chappy! We had a great time and look forward to many more birthdays to celebrate together!

It's true...

2011-10-17T12:47:00.001-05:00

The Cards are in the World Series!!!!

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Fun with Jackson!

2011-10-07T17:35:00.001-05:00

They are such good friends!!

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For all the Cardinals Fans out there!!!!!

2011-10-06T09:21:00.000-05:00

Go Cardinals!!!!!!!

Here's to hoping the Cardinals make it all the way to the World Series!!!!

Sing!

2011-10-05T08:40:00.002-05:00

I was able to get these videos of Jacob singing a couple of his favorite songs. I hope you enjoy!

My favorite part of this one is the "m-m-m-m-p". We learned a version at our music class that says at the end, "Now I know my ABC's, and it's time to tickle me." Sorry for my loud voice at the end, apparently I was very close to the microphone...and I'm just loud anyways! Ha!

The first word is cut off, but you'll get the idea...

Thanks for checking in with us today! Have a blessed day!

Airplanes?!?!

2011-10-03T14:40:00.003-05:00

There's a model airplane club that meets at a local park on Saturdays to fly their planes...Since Jacob is part of the Tuley family, he has no choice but to like planes! Hee hee. So, we decided it would be cool to watch them fly around. Here Jacob is telling us all about the planes...

Say Cheese!

While we were watching, the owner asked if we'd like to come and look at the planes...so of course we took him up on that!!!

Oh, what fun!

Hiking!

2011-10-03T14:28:00.002-05:00

Last Saturday we went to a nearby park and walked the trails with Jacob and Jackson. It was a little bit of a challenge making sure Jacob didn't trip over "rocks and roots" but overall it was a great family adventure. Jacob picked up sticks and walked over bridges (his favorite part) and enjoyed watching Jackson sniff the bushes and trees.

Showing us his walking stick!

You can hardly see us, but Jacob and I are on the bridge! He's looking the other way!

This is the best I could get as far as a shot with Jacob and Jackson...They were both too busy to care about mom with the camera! :)

We're looking forward to more hiking adventures like this in the future!

Where's Jacob?

2011-09-25T13:34:00.001-05:00

When I vacuum in Jacob's room, I pile things in his bed and on his dresser so I can completely clean the floor. Jacob decided to get in bed with his stuff...

So funny!

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Jacob's First 3D Movie

2011-09-24T14:19:00.001-05:00

We took Jacob to his first 3D movie last night...The Lion King. It was great! He thought the animals were exciting, and wanted to talk throughout the whole movie, telling us everything he was seeing. Occasionally he would take the glasses off, but for the most part he did great. Plus, we thought he looked so cute wearing those 3D glasses!

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Catching up on August (part 2)

2011-09-16T21:28:00.004-05:00

The last weekend in August was special for us because Chappy and Agga came to Nashville to be with Jacob. We did a few fun things, but the main reason for the visit was to go to the Nashville Sounds game against the Memphis Redbirds. For those of you that know us, you're probably wondering why a Sounds game and not the St. Louis Cardinals. Well...the Memphis Redbirds AAA team feeds into the Cardinals. So...it's like we're really supporting the team on a whole new level. :) Anyhow, we loved the visit and hope for many more to come!

No matter how hard I tried, this was the best I could get for a picture of Chappy and Agga. :)

Watching the game and eating hot dogs. Ha!

After the game we stayed and watched the fireworks go, "Boom Boom." Jacob had a great time!

Thanks Chappy and Agga for spending time with us and making such fun memories!

Catching up on August (part 1)

2011-09-16T21:01:00.010-05:00

At the end of August one of my best friends from Pepperdine came out to visit us in Tennessee. It's shocking to think we've known each other for over 13 years... We took Jenna to many different local sites, but I am so disappointed to say that we took very few pictures. Agh! So here's some pictures we did manage to take while touring the Jack Daniels Distillery in Lynchberg, Tennessee.

Sitting on the porch in front of the old headquarters where all the important decisions about Tennessee Whiskey were made! :)
Jenna, me, and JD.

After the tour of JD, we went to Miss Mary BoBo's for lunch. This was such a treat! I was so happy to have Jackie with us that day so she could laugh at Jenna and me, the California girls, as we ate the fabulous southern cooking! :) I also bought the cookbook....we'll see if I can make that chess pie that was "to die for!"

I am so blessed in becoming friends with Jenna! She's an awesome Christian woman, who loves God, serves Him in all she does, and has such a zest for life. She makes me want to go out and conquer the world!

Wilson County Fair

2011-09-04T14:41:00.007-05:00

Toward the end of August, Jacob had his very first Wilson County Fair experience. He seems to have enjoyed himself, and still talks about the Ferris Wheel and the "crash and boom" of the cars at Demolition Derby. We tried to document most of his "firsts" at the fair, but we didn't get a picture of him having his first corndog or enjoying a snowcone. However, the pictures we did take, seem to capture the evening very well.

Jeff and Jacob getting close to the entrance...

The first thing we did when we got there was head to the Barrel races. Apparently, this was just the practice rounds, but Jacob still enjoyed watching the horses go around the barrels. We were able to be super close, which was fun!
A picture I got of Jacob at the barrel races...I promise...he WAS having fun! Ha!

Another shoulder ride on Daddy!

After the horse events, we went to the kids learning area. Here, Jacob learned to pump water (and play in it afterward)... pet some animals and ride a John Deer tricycle.

He also saw some chickens, and ducks, and baby chicks hatching from eggs!

He watched the pig races, and enjoyed laughing at the ducks and goats race as well.

Jacob is thinking, "Why are these people so excited about these races?"

Hilarious. I love that he's such a deep thinker!

Finally, we got a couple of tickets for the ferris wheel and Jacob rode for the first time!

A family picture on the Ferris Wheel! Yay!

Our view from the top...

After the Ferris Wheel we worked our way over to the stadiums to watch Demolition Derby. I thought Jacob would love this, because he always loves things to crash and boom, and he is especially into cars lately...but, he was a little scared with all the loud noises. Nevertheless, we stuck it out and he still refers to the "crash and boom cars." Hope we didn't traumatize him! Ha!

Overall, it was a fun night and lots of memories were made! Thanks for checking in with us! Have a blessed day!

It's the Simple Things...

2011-09-02T13:42:00.005-05:00

Jacob has always enjoyed books, but lately, his love of books has transferred from us reading them to him, to his "independent" reading. His favorites include, Go Dog Go and Hooray for Henry. Every other week we go to the library and pick out new books, and after reading them together a few times, he knows the jist of the pages. And so, many times during the day we will find him sitting in the rocking chair reading his "wi-berry" books, even during naptime. I have to admit, that as a former elementary school teacher, hearing him read is music to my ears!!!

Saying, "The End!"

Another one of Jacob's new found "loves" is beads! He asks multiple times a day to "play beads." I bought this box of beads from our church sale (another $3 find) and he will play for a least 15-20 minutes independently with these beads! For a 2 year old, I think he's got absolutely wonderful fine motor skills (whoever thought we needed occupational therapy, HA!). Often, when he has put a few beads on the string, he will call out to me, "Mommy, Look! Tall it is!" Then he proceeds to bring the string to me, holding it by the end, way up in the air. He is so proud, even when it's only two beads! Ha!

The teacher in me will sit down with him and talk about patterns, shapes and colors, and large and small, and will often sound like an open thesaurus as I use words like enormous, gigantic, or miniature, and tiny for their more simple word counterparts.

It is in these everyday, simple activities, that I am reminded of how much joy I receive in being a part of each day with Jacob. I realize that right now, Jacob wants me to be doing everything with him, and it may not always be that way. For now, not one hour goes by that he is not calling out to me in some form or fashion. I hear my name (Mommy) and, as his parent, gladly participate in his life with him. I think about how much God delights in us, and when we come to Him and ask Him to join with us in our everyday, simple activities, just how much Joy that brings Him! Imagine how my life would be upwardly focused if I relied on Him every hour of every day and asked Him to participate with me...it's convicting, I know!

Music Class

2011-08-26T13:17:00.001-05:00

Jacob loved music class this summer. Each week he would go to class and sing, dance, run, and play instruments. It was a great time!

Here's Jacob playing a big drum...

Of course, Jacob loved Ms. Rachel, his teacher!

There were many things we loved about "The Music Class..." It incorporated LOTS of gross motor activities, understanding musical rhythmic and tonal patterns, and was fun socially for Jacob, as he was such an observer of the kids and teacher. We liked it so much we signed him up for fall sessions too.

Thanks for checking in with us! Have a great day!

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The best 3 dollars I have spent...

2011-08-22T07:39:00.008-05:00

There's nothing like a $3 Basketball Hoop, found at a church sale, to provide endless amount of play and entertainment! Don't make fun of the orange soccer ball that we use as a "basketball," it was all we could find at the store...and when you get to the video you can try to just tune me out! ;)

Have a wonderful day!

Bridge?!?!?!

2011-08-15T17:32:00.001-05:00

What did Jacob want to do at the park today???? Go back and forth over the bridge. He loves bridges! Seriously...is he going to be an architect or civil engineer someday? My guess is yes!

Here's Jacob saying, "Bridge!"

Going over the bridge...

...and back!

Have a great day!

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A Hat for Jack

2011-08-13T08:01:00.004-05:00

Jacob spends a majority of his day trying to get Jackson to do things that he doesn't really want to do. When Jackson is standing, he will grab Jackson by the head and say, "lay down." When we are eating, he will tell Jackson to "back up," which is something Jackson really doesn't want to do because that would mean no dropped food. Ha! But, on this day, Jackson didn't seem to mind wearing a hat that Jacob gave him. Is this the beginning of Jackson's giving up?!?! Probably not! Ha!

Jackson is such a great dog! We heart him!

Big Shoes to Fill...

2011-08-02T17:55:00.001-05:00

These shoes of Daddy's may be big...

...but I have no doubt he will fill them one day!!!

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Whipped Cream?

2011-07-30T21:42:00.004-05:00

Jacob, do you want to lick the whipped cream? Why yes, Mom, of course I do!

Yum.

Let me just get that little bit....oh, you caught me with my tongue out!

Oh, that was good!

Who doesn't like to lick the whipped cream anyways?!?!?!

Climbing!

2011-07-26T19:26:00.004-05:00

The last time we went to this park, Jacob couldn't do this...

(sorry for the sideways video)

We're enjoying every minute of his successes! God is good!

Hold your Horses!

2011-07-23T20:54:00.004-05:00

Today we went here and spent some time with the Mounted Police and their Tennessee Walking Horses. When we were in the car on our way, we asked Jacob if he wanted to see some horses, and he responded emphatically with a, "YES...Horses, Yes!" It was so cute!

Here's Jeff and Jacob meeting "Joe."

This horse, Autobahn, was very interested in licking. Jacob thought it was very funny that the horse was "lick-it" on his mommy.
This is Jacob on one of the Mounted Police horses named Jose. We learned later in a show, that Jose is 15 years old and has worked and trained with the same officer for 13 years. Such powerful and amazing creatures!

During the show, Jacob was watching Jose and his officer very intently. You can tell by how red his face is, that it was VERY warm inside the training barn. Even the fans weren't much help...

"Jacob, where's the horse?"

Jacob thought it was funny that Jose could "kick a ball" just like he does. :)

Here's Jose and his officer demonstrating part of their training program. These horses are trained to walk sideways, break up fights, walk through caution tapes, walk on tires, and remain calm during loud noises, among other things.

The cutest part of our afternoon was when we got in the car to come home, Jacob said, "Horses, like it," without any prompting from us. So fun!

Three Dog Nights in July

2011-07-23T20:23:00.005-05:00

This is what our living room looked like every night for a week! It was an animal house! We got to watch two of our dear friends' dogs for a week while they were on vacation. Needless to say, Jacob loves Roxy and Ellie! Every now and then he asks for Roxy and Ellie...so cute!

Jacob loved to lay all over Ellie. She is the oldest of the dogs and lets Jacob just do whatever. Jacob would crawl inside her crate sometimes and sit with her. He would love on her every chance he could! She is a sweet sweet dog! We love Ellie!

You can see Roxy, the little dog, found her place at the top of the chaise lounge. Ha! She was watching over her kingdom (not really). She's a bit sneaky and liked to hide under the bed whenever you called her to come to her crate.

If you can believe it, we took all three dogs, and Jacob in the stroller, out for a walk one evening. Yes, we were adventurous, that's for sure. Anyhow, after we returned the dogs were worn out. Here's Ellie's face after our walk. So funny!

For those of you wondering...Jackson did great with two other dogs in his home. I think he kinda missed them this week! :)

Homemade Pizza Night

2011-07-18T13:40:00.001-05:00

Shuttle Launch

2011-07-12T20:25:00.008-05:00

Yes, you read the title correctly.......We got to SEE the last shuttle launch in Florida! It was a whirlwind of a trip, that included small amounts of sleep for most of us, and lots of uncertainty due to weather, but in the end it all worked out wonderfully!

Some great family friends graciously offered their airplane for us to have this opportunity at seeing the shuttle launch. So, on Thursday afternoon Uncle Biggie came and picked us up and we headed down to Atlanta to pick up some other stragglers (Pappy, Agga, and Misty). After some delays with weather, we hopped into the plane and headed toward Florida. Uncle Biggie and Daddy did a really good job flying around the clouds and keeping everyone safe!!! Here's some pictures of Jacob on the airplane going to Florida!

Pappy and Misty saying Hello to the camera! Great pic!

Jacob flying the airplane! Although, it was likely flying itself at this point of the flight! Ha!

We arrived in Florida around 9:30, and after checking into our hotel and getting a bite to eat, we finally got to sleep around 11:30PM. Knowing that we would be fighting the crowds to get a parking spot close to the launch, we decided to get up early and find a good spot. So, at 4:00AM we left the hotel and headed toward the launch site. Luckily, we found some open areas on one of the Causeways. Even with just a few hours of sleep, Jacob was as happy as he could be! What a trooper!

While we waited for the launch, we did our best to entertain Jacob. Here's Agga and Jacob walking around the news busses.

Around 8:30, Jacob got an hour nap...

Of course, Jacob had to have a shirt of the last shuttle launch!

Despite all our efforts, the heat and exhaustion still got to Jacob. He had a minor meltdown because I would not let him have a plastic spoon.

But, he was quickly distracted with laughs from Daddy!

We drank some water and had the fans blowing!

Jacob even entertained himself in his chair...he loved putting his cup in the holder! He looks SO BIG in that chair.

Finally, we heard the magic words. Shuttle is "Go For Launch." So we snapped some pictures before the main event.

Just before the launch, many people were shouting, "USA" and "I Love you guys!" But the moment that got me, was when the announcer came over the radio and thanked all the astronauts for their contributions to our country. Tears came so easily. Then, the moment we were all waiting for...

If you look closely, you can see the shuttle in between Jacob and Jeff. What a great picture!

It was an amazing opportunity to view the shuttle launch live and in person. I am so glad that Jacob could witness a major part of America's history.

July 4th

2011-07-12T20:08:00.002-05:00

Happy Independence Day America! Love this picture!

California Part 5: Pool Time and Hanging out

2011-07-06T14:26:00.006-05:00

While in California, if we weren't doing something in town or around LA, we were in the pool and hanging out at Papa and GJo's house. We spent many hours lounging around and playing in the water. Jacob loves the pool so it was good.

Here's a couple of "pool pics" while we were in sunny Southern California...

A cute picture of the family!

We went to a park close to the house and Jacob played on the bouncing bridge. He went back and forth "over the bridge" and was as happy as he could be!

Jacob also found the sprinklers while we were at the park...

love.this.picture.

Here's a fun picture of Jacob and me looking at the Cuckcoo clock. He loved that Cuckcoo so much! Every hour he would hear it and say, "Cuckcoo!" His eyes lit up every time. This picture pretty much sums it up!

Jacob also decided this weaved bowl was a hat. So silly!

"Cheese!"

We took so many pictures it was hard to put them into one post. Southern California proved to be a fun place to hang out and spend quality family time together. Thanks for checking in with us!

California Part 4: The Beach

2011-07-06T14:17:00.005-05:00

As a child and teenager we went to the beach often in the summer. We would spend all day there, playing in the water and lathering on the sunscreen. Then we would find a fire pit and roast hotdogs for dinner and marshmellows for smores. I wanted to share that with Jeff and Jacob...

Waiting for the waves with Papa and Daddy...

Loving the waves and the COLD water!!!

"Here comes the wave Jacob! Get Ready!!!"

"...and JUMP..."

We played in the sand, even though this was not Jacob's favorite part...he did it anyways.

GJo and Jacob saying "Cheese" and trying to get Jacob warm. These are the exact same umbrellas we would use when I was a kid...great investment! Ha!

Getting ready to eat Smores. Yummy! GJo is trying to block the wind and keep Jacob warm. He was SO cold...

A family shot as the sun was going down. As you can tell from the picture the beach was SUPER crowded. We weren't sure we would find a fire pit, but we got one and everything worked out great!

I love this guy! He's the greatest!

California Part 3: Queen Mary and Fun with Papa and GJo

2011-07-06T14:01:00.005-05:00

For our birthdays (Jeff's is May 23 and mine is June 23), my parents got us a package deal on the Queen Mary, including a night on the boat, a meal voucher for their restaurants, and breakfast at the cafe as well. What a treat! It was our first time to leave Jacob overnight, and it was wonderful! Here's a few pictures of us on the Queen Mary, docked in Long Beach, CA.

That night we got a little dressed up and went to a nice dinner at Sir Winston's on the Queen Mary. Here's a picture after dinner with the Long Beach skyline in the background.

A view of part of the boat. It couldn't all fit in the picture!

Jeff and I left the Queen Mary and drove down the coast on the Pacific Coast Highway toward Dana Point. We rolled the windows down and enjoyed the sea air and looked at the fabulous views of the ocean. God created such an amazing world. Beautiful!

Of course, Jacob had alot of fun while we were gone...he didn't even know we were gone! He got to play with his cousins...

He got a fort built for him in the kitchen...

...and this is where we found him when we got home! He did a double take and when he realized we were back he came running toward us! Papa and GJo said he slept great, and didn't ask for us at all!

Successful time away for Jacob and for Mommy and Daddy! Yay!

California Part 2: March AFB and Birthday Fun!

2011-07-05T13:14:00.012-05:00

After our big day at the zoo and observatory, we decided to keep it more low key and visit a local aviation museum at March Air Force Base and celebrate my birthday by hanging out with friends and family at the pool and having steak dinner. What a great way to celebrate my Birthday! :)

While Papa and Jeff were deciding which airplanes to see, Jacob was following the lines on the ground toward all the planes...

Jacob and Mommy in the Airplane Museum

Jacob and Daddy in front of a PT-19. Jeff's "Poppy" trained cadets in these airplanes during World War II.

Papa and Jacob climbing down the stairs after looking at a bomber used in Strategic Air Command, the Jimmy Stewart movie.

The Cutest Astronaut in the World. Jacob climbed into a miniature Endeavor.

After being inside the museum, we walked outside to look at some airplanes. Here's Jacob in front of a SR-71.

Looking at the B-29. Jacob really enjoyed kicking the dirt and watching it fly into the air. He just laughed and laughed at that! So silly!

This is a picture of a B-17 that is being restored. There are only a few of these left in the world. There happened to be a volunteer there, working on the plane, so we were able to take a look at the plane, and Papa and Jeff went inside to look around.

Jacob and Mommy at the back of the B-17. Can you imagine being in the war and in that position of the plane? Those men were so brave!

While Papa and Daddy were inside the plane, we ate some snacks under the wing of the plane.

Jeff inside the plane!

Papa in front of a Cobra Helicopter

We left the museum and went back to the house to hang out by the pool. My best friend from childhood came over to hang out. Hanging out with Alisa is so easy, she just blends right into our family conversations. Although many of the conversations involve memories we have with each other, like eating at Sizzlers, going to the lake, spending time at the beach, and going to Bible camps etc., it's always full of laughs. We've known each other since 3rd grade, and it's so fun to be together! Love you Alisa!

Here we are hanging out by the pool around the fire ring and eating chips and salsa. Jacob loves chips and salsa, he calls chips "pips" and likes to "bip, bip, bip" them in the salsa. Hee hee!

GJo and Jacob smiling for the camera!

Some pool time with Mommy and Alisa!

When we're in the water, Papa is always right there too! Jacob learned to kick his feet and lean forward to "swim" and get the ball in the water. He loved pushing and throwing this ball around the pool!

Neither of the boys look interested in the camera! HA!

Happy Birthday to me! What a happy day it was!

California Part 1: LA Zoo and Griffith Observatory

2011-07-05T12:28:00.007-05:00

Our first full day in California was spent at the LA Zoo and Griffith Observatory. It was a fun filled day! The weather in California was great in the morning and evening, but during the day it got pretty hot. We loaded on the suncreen and packed our lunches and we were ready to go! Here we are at the entrance to the zoo.

Inside the Zoo we saw lots of animals...This is the VERY LARGE orangatan that decided to climb up the fence while we were there.

A great picture of some silly monkeys in front of some real monkeys. :)

Papa showing Jacob the Hippopotomus. It was HUGE, and it's body was just barely 3 inches off the ground!

The hippo in the water. By this time, the heat had kicked in and I was thinking that if I was that Hippo I would be in the water too...

Such a sweet picture! Cheese! See the Black Bear in the background?

By the time we had gone through the whole Zoo, Jacob was tuckered out! We found a spot to eat lunch under some umbrellas with misters. They brought the temperature down quite a bit!

After lunch we drove over to the Griffith Observatory. From the top of the hill we could see the Hollywood sign, so we snapped a few pictures of Jacob with Papa and GJo, and a family portrait as well. You can barely see the Hollywood sign, but it is there! ;)

The Observatory

Jacob loved running around on the top part of the observatory. He thought he was so cool!

Papa, GJo and Jacob. What great smiles!!!

We had a great time seeing animals and also learning about the sun and moon from the observatory. And...even though it took us 3 hours to get home because of LA traffic, we still had a great time. On the way back to GJo's house Jacob had been asking for water and we were out of water. So Jeff said that we would have the best water when we got to GJo's house. So Jacob began repeating that phrase over and over until we got home. So...when we got home, we had "the BEST water" at "GJo's house" and it was refreshing!

Tunnels are Fun!

2011-06-13T16:35:00.001-05:00

We've been playing outside everyday despite the high temps...so to make things more interesting, we got the tunnel out. Here's some pictures of Jacob and his Tunnel fun!

Thanks for checking in with us today! Have a blessed day!

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Playing with Cicadas!

2011-06-09T12:52:00.001-05:00

This is the bug that Jacob decided to play with today...

It was trying to get away, but just not fast enough!

"Got it!"

Jacob has no fear of bugs, obviously! And just so you know...no creatures were harmed today! Although the Cicadas will soon be leaving us, I am sure he will find something else to play with and pick up off the ground!

We are having a great summer so far and Jacob constantly asks to go outside. He will stand at the door and say, "gacub owsi" and then will say, "jatson wi us," meaning that he thinks Jackson should go with us outside too.

How fun to be able to do things like this! God has blessed us so much with Jacob, and we thank Him daily! Thanks for checking in with us. Have a fabulous day!

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Double Shirt Day????

2011-06-07T09:10:00.001-05:00

Jacob has been trying to put his shirts on all by himself lately. He found this one and decided to try again, even though he already had one on!!! Ha ha ha!

Have a blessed day!

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Cars in the Tub!

2011-06-03T17:15:00.001-05:00

Apparently, playing in the bathtub is cool at any time of day, not just during bath time! So fun!!!

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Love my Jacob!

2011-06-02T19:05:00.001-05:00

Just a cute picture of me and my sweet boy after a family walk this evening!

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Ice-Peam

2011-05-28T21:55:00.003-05:00

Tonight, Jacob asked to get "Ice-Peam," and that's exactly what we gave him!

Jacob in Atlanta

2011-05-24T14:30:00.019-05:00

We spent the last five days in Atlanta with the Tuley family...and it was full of lots of adventures for Jacob. He's such an easy going kid, and this trip proved that even more! Every day was FUN-filled, which meant later naps, later bedtimes, change in meal times, etc. But, even with all the changes Jacob was awesome! He had so much fun with family and showed us more and more how BIG and GROWN UP he is becoming. It was Great!!!

Jacob in the car on the way to Atlanta. He's looking super cool in his sunglasses!

Upon arrival in Atlanta we ate lunch at GiGi's house, then went to pick up Uncle Biggie from the Airport. What would a trip to Atlanta be if it didn't include going to an aiport???? Uncle Biggie just purchased an airplane and Jacob needed to check it out!

Jacob in the Pilot seat making sure the plane was in good working order! He looks so cute!

Uncle Biggie, Jacob, and Diddy pose for a picture in the airplane! Precious!

Who let that child in the back of the plane?!?!?!?

"These are the wings!"

Once we finished checking out the plane we headed out to Agga and Pappy's house! Jacob and Agga went out to feed the geese in the back yard. They had taken a bag of bread and the geese followed them all around the backyard. It was too cute!

On their way back and the geese are still following! Ha! You may be wondering how Jacob gave his grandmother the name Agga....well, Jacob has the tendency to either leave out the beginning sound, or put it somewhere in the middle instead of the beginning. For example, Pizza was "appa" for a while, and basketball is "abbotball," the word chicken is "iten," and so on. So when he was learning Gramma, we would say "Agga." So....she is now Agga! It's really cute to hear him say, "Agga house" and "Hi Agga."

On Friday morning we got up and went to the Yellow River Game Range where Jacob could feed and pet some animals. Here's some pictures of Jacob feeding the deer.

There were a few small bridges that Jacob enjoyed...he loves to go "Over Bridge" and says it every time we drive or walk across a bridge. It's funny, but he will go back and forth and back and forth on a bridge. It's the best entertainment for him.

Here's a picture of Jacob feeding a "bap bunny." He thought it was so funny that the bunny would "nibble nibble nibble" on the carrot!

Jeff, Jacob, and Agga walking through the Yellow River Game Range....

This is the home of Georgia's very own General Lee, the famous Groundhog! He must have been somewhere inside his mansion...It was so fun seeing the animals and getting to feed and pet some of them. What a unique place!

After the Game Range, we met Pappy at the park for lunch and a little playing. I can't believe how big Jacob is getting. He's LOVING being outside and wants to throw and kick the ball, run and climb stairs, and just be SO independent! My baby boy is officially gone! Such a precious boy!

Jacob being independent and climbing the stairs all on his own!

"Jacob turn around," I say...and he complies. Hopefully it will always be this way. Ha!

Jacob rolling and kicking the ball with Pappy and Agga.

The park where we met Pappy for lunch was so neat. It overlooked the Chattahoochie River. Here's Agga and Jacob talking about something very important! :) I'm sure she's teaching him to say Cha-tta-hoo-chie correctly. Right now he only says, "hoochie" and that's not too far off....hum....

Diddy and Jacob at the park, with the "Hoochie" behind them. Ha! If only Jacob had been looking at the camera, this would have been a perfect picture! Jacob has the tendency to say "cheese" while looking AWAY from the camera...sigh...oh well.

A family portrait. Sweet!

On Saturday we headed to the Atlanta Zoo with Uncle Buh, Aunt Jenny, Agga, and Pappy. Since we are members in Nashville we were able to get half price tickets! Awesome!

Pappy and Agga walking with Jacob

The Gorilla exhibit...

Diddy and Jacob. This is such a funny face...I asked Jacob to smile and this is the face he gave...Jeff however, gave his traditional smirk. Love it!

The Pandas getting ready to eat lunch.

Uncle Buh and Aunt Jenny showing Jacob the monkeys.

The group at the front entrance. We are all smiling and looking at the camera...this is a first!

Saturday night we celebrated Jeff's birthday by going to Dave and Busters for dinner and games. Jacob earned LOTS of tickets and was able to get a little basketball and hoop, a soccer ball, and a CARS coloring book. Here's the boys racing cars together.

Diddy and Jacob driving a BIG RIG truck. Ha!

We got back to Agga and Pappy's house and Jackson and Jacob helped Jeff open his birthday presents. It was a fun evening! Jacob was even able to sing Happy Birthday to Jeff. So cute!

Then...on Monday Jacob was able to see Lightning McQueen, but Jacob says it like this, "Abbot Peen," and how he comes up with that is so funny to me! Here's the lifesize Mater, Finn McMissle, and Lightning McQueen. They are promoting the new Cars 2 movie and we just happened to stumble upon this rare gem! How fun!

Agga and Jacob in front of Mater!

Jacob looking like such a BIG Boy standing in front of Lighting McQueen all by himself.

That's all for now (it's plenty, I know). Thanks for checking in with us! Have a blessed day!