Shippeylife! and other fabby details

My little man

2011-09-04T14:15:00.000-07:00

Gig Em' Aggies!

He doesn't care that he has his sister's paci!

Touch my sister and I'll get you!

My sweet boy

Bubbie, you are my little man, my heart melts when you are around. I love to hear you shout "MOMMA" when you wake up from your naps. I love when you pull on my legs to pick you up. I love that you lay your head on my shoulder when you are feeling sweet. I love when you get excited about things on t.v. and you get my attention so I can be excited with you. I love that you love to read and bring me books, sit on my lap, and point at the pictures. You give me open mouth kisses that are wet and sloppy- and I wouldn't trade them for the world. You are all boy...running, climbing, dusty and dirty, messy, fast, sweaty, and mostly loving. You are a sweet boy. Sweet to me, your daddy, and your sisters. I love you Bubbie.

At 18 months you:

still love to play with any type of ball

say: momma, daddy, tuck (truck), duck, sis, air air (airplane), cacker (cracker), bird, cow, dog, papa, poppi, dink (drink), book

take 1 or 2 naps per day

still have your paci and LOVE your blankie

love to read books

your favorite place to play is outside

favorite food- cheese

still sleep in your crib (thankfully!)

like to walk around in your sister's dress up high heels:) shhh...I won't tell!<

you arent afraid to get dirty, muddy, or wet

can climb to the top of the fort in the backyard with no help!

I love you Carter, you make me so proud to be your momma.

1 month!

2011-08-29T09:15:00.000-07:00

Kirby is already over a month old, but I am going to keep track of her growth with these cute stickers! She weighs 10.9 pounds and is smiling at people when they talk to her! Just the other day I saw her brother ever so gently putting her paci in her mouth- so sweet!

She's here, well she's been here! Kirby Love Shippey

2011-08-23T11:59:00.000-07:00

Hello- thank you for being patient for this post. Its a month late, and here's why: our sweet Kirby has given us a run for our money! And that's a mild way of putting it! She was born on July 20th at 11:33 am weighing 7.14 pounds and 19 1/2 inches long. My BIGGEST baby so far! We came home, got settled, brought Scarlett and Carter home, and que the colic. WHEW colic is a beast, to say the least. It is something I have never had to experience with my other two, thankfully. It is both frustrating and heartreaking to see your baby cry, and cry, and cry! Things are getting better thanks to our dear friend and pediatrician who suggested putting Kirby on acid reflux medication to help ease her pain- and it is working! Also, the whirlwind of having two other children in the mix has rocked my world a bit:) So- that is why this post is delayed...I have been a little busy! Kirby is growing wonderfully ,and has started to smile at people when they are sweet talking her....at only 5 weeks old! Maybe I'm just a proud momma, but that's pretty early to be doing that! We are trying to get her on more of a consistent schedule (trying for more consistency) so she can learn to fall asleep on her own....that would be the monster behind our sleeplessness:) Nevertheless, I'll take the good, bad, and ugly because she and her brother and sister are worth every laugh, every tear, and every sleepless night. Here is the link to her newborn pictures taken by Christina Shippey just click on the blog tab to see them! We love our sweet Kirby!

They supervise each other!

2011-07-09T16:39:00.000-07:00

Let's admit it- sometimes when I don't hear crying or whining I sigh with relief and get some things done on my to-do list...today this is what the rascals were up to...

Brushing and ballet symposium in the tub!

Sister dumping AS MANY TOYS as she can in her brother's bed to keep him happy. And not knowlingly teaching him how to climb out of his crib:(

Oh Geez...I hope he forgets this moment and doesnt starts flinging himself out of his crib at this age (16 months) that's TOO EARLY!!!

Kirby's room is complete:)

2011-07-07T09:33:00.000-07:00

Here are some shots of Kirby's room- we are expecting her arrival anyday! I could not have completed her room without the help of our friends from church. Hannah Swor, a student in the youth ministry and sweetheart painted the mural, Glenda Collins made the cornice board, and Joy Farmer (master of all things handmade) made Kirby's bedding.

Scarlett's first dance recital!

2011-07-05T20:54:00.000-07:00

Recently Scarlett had her first dance recital! She did perfect!Her class did a ballet routine to "A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes". I was worried that there may have been tears shed out of fear, but there wasn't a teardrop near her eyes...they were all collected in mine! She performed at the Wortham Downtown- a pretty swanky gig for your first recital!

With her friend backstage before her number.

Ready Mom!

She did SOOO GOOD! No tears!

Daddy and his ballerina!

All of Scarlett's friends and family that came to see her dance:)

Summer is almost here!

2011-05-22T10:13:00.000-07:00

We are ready for summer! I am lucky that both of my kids LOVE to play outside, eat popsicles, eat MORE popsicles, get dirty, get wet, ride bikes, play ball, and overall just be kids that feel right at home in the great outdoors! Makes a momma happy:)
We are preparing for Jantie's wedding in 2 weeks which will take place in Wimberly, Tx at the Red Corral Ranch. Scarlett will be the flower girl and Carter will be the ring bearer (that's his official title although I doubt he will be able to walk a straight line and hold anything- so basically I will be carrying him!) We are so excited to see Jantie and Buddy get married and to take in the beautiful scenery of the ranch- can we say mini vacation?!
I am 31 weeks prego with Kirby and feeling great! Her room is almost finished and I will be taking materntiy pics with my sister in law (Christina Shippey) pretty soon ( I will post pics of all things Kirby soon!)

In the meantime- satisfy your sweet tooth with these sweeties!

She loves to pose for pictures!

Perched in his new spot- IN the sandtable! I guess I better move it into the grass for when he topples out!

What we've been up to...

2011-04-29T17:37:00.000-07:00

Well- Some of you have been harassing me about updating this blog...and I have to admit I have done a poor job of keeping all of you up to date on our little lives- I'm sorry! Scarlett is gearing up for her recital and she LOVES going to dance class on Saturday mornings. Carter is walking- no wait- make that running- and he loves nothing more than going outside and playing with his ball, pushing toys around, and shooting baskets with his daddy. Here are some recent pics of our babies!

He found an Easter egg about 6 days after Easter...complete with a little chocolate surprise on the inside!

On the run!

Easter 2011- I'm 27 weeks prego with Kirby:)

Making Easter eggs surprises out of rice krispie treats!

Striking a pose!

Crash and burn

Dying eggs for the hunt!

Happy Birthday Brother!

2011-03-08T17:46:00.000-08:00

Brother's bumblebee smash cake (I made it!)

12 months- and standing tall!

11 months- at Nonni's house playing with the "baby" in the mirror

9 months- Breakfast with sister and santa

8 months- Thanksgiving

7 months- Ahoy matee!

9 months- his sister sabatoged him with toys!

8 months- our little rolly poly, he LOVED that alligator!

7 months- scooting and crawling

6 months- all smiles:)

3 months- his FIRST smile captured on photo!

2 months- tummy time with sissy

Carter Keith Shippey

March 8, 2010

6 pds 9 oz, 19 3/4 inches

1:09 pm

I can't believe it...my BABY BOY is already one. I am both happy and sad (sad because where did the year go...really, where did it go?)

Here are my little man's current stats:

24 pds.
4 teeth (2 on top, two on bottom)
has had 2 haircuts, compliments of daddy!
can point with his pointer finger at objects he wants
favorite toy is a toy drumstick, his sister's music box, and a ball
LOVES his sissy and chases her around constantly
can say "this", "ball", "dada", and "mama", and "hi"
loves to go on walks and to swing outside
sleeps about 11 hours per night. Goes to bed around 7 pm and wakes up around 6 am
still takes his paci
drinks about 3-4 bottles per day, and has transitioned to whole milk
LOVES yobaby yogurt and would eat it all day if I let him
takes 2 naps. One in the morning for about 45 minutes to an hour, and one in the afternoon for about 2 hours
still doesnt like juice
likes to flip the pages in a book, but doesnt really have an interest in sitting down to listen to them!
can take about 2-4 steps- still no full blown walking yet!
Loves bread and pizza crust!
still sleeps with his elephant blankie EVERY night
wears 18 months shirts and 12 month shorts/ pants
loves to drink water from a sippy cup
knows how to sign "more" and "please"
can wave "hi" and "bye bye"
can blow kisses (my favorite)
can give "low" fives...still working on the "high" five!
grunts VERY loudly if he wants something (mainly food) that another person has
his favorite snack food is McDonalds french fries
is so intrigued by iphones, computers, and anything technology related
loves to play peek a boo
can clap, dance, bounce, and squeal:)
likes to play patty cake
when he gets mad he hits the sides of his head with his hands, or bangs his head on the nearest object...funny, but a little sad at the same time. I cant help but laugh!

I love my boy- he is all boy. Scoots trucks and cars all around, head butts his sister when he wants to play with her, and above all is FEARLESS.

I am so lucky to have you in my life Bruddy (yep, thats what I call him...its a mix between brother and buddy) You and your sister are everything to me. Thank you for loving me, and allowing me to hug and kiss all over you!

Happy Birthday Stinky!

2011-02-28T20:01:00.000-08:00

It literally feels like yesterday that I remember having contractions at our old house thinking "is this for real, am I really about to go to the hospital?" Sure enough...we packed our stuff in the car and headed to the hospital and after an intense labor, my little glow worm graced us with her presence on March 1 at 12:03 pm.

1 year old

2 years old

3 years old! BIG sister!

4 years old- you have changed my life for the better... I love you!

Mr. Snowman

2010-12-28T12:57:00.000-08:00

Scarlett and Mr. Snowman 2007

Carter and Mr. Snowman 2010

Both kiddos 2010

A WAY outdated post!

2010-12-20T14:08:00.000-08:00

These days my time seems a bit limited...I wonder why?! Oh yeah- 2 kids, full time job, house, laundry, fixing food, feeding animals, more laundry, cleaning, husband- ok you get the picture. Let me update you in the quickest way possible:

1. Another Shippey baby is on the way- due July 25th! Our little bonus package! Here is how we shared the news with our family.

2. My ever so talented sister in law, Christina Shippey took our Christmas pictures! Here are our favorites...yes, we really did drag our daughters 4 post bed into a field! I have the BEST husband ever to help my crazy ideas come to life!

3. Brother is growing at a rapid pace! He has two teeth (he cut both at 7 months), and is crawling finally! His favorite thing to do is pull up on anything he can get his chubby little hands on. Here is a pic that sums up his favorite thing to do:

looking out!

from the outside he's just as cute!

4. Scarlett had her first Christmas program at school. Her class sang 5 songs. Here she is right after her WONDERFUL performance!

There she is up top to the left!

October-ish!

2010-10-15T20:12:00.000-07:00

Things around the Shippey household have been pretty standard lately. Sometimes I just like a good old fashioned post with the purpose of sharing a couple of cute pictures. My children fill my heart with so much joy, my cup overflows.
Scarlett enjoys school so much. Her sweet spirit is such a gift. She loves her brother so much. She helps hold his bottle when he is too lazy to do it himself! And, I caught a glimpse of them playing (yes, playing) with each other! That was so cool to watch...I caught myself smiling so big.

I love this picture because it showcases Scarlett's cheesy smile while Brother is showing off in the background! Classic!

At 7 months he is now eating LOTS of baby food, still hates meat, drinking 5-6 oz bottles, FINALLY starting to sleep through the night, has no teeth, and is army crawling! Oh yea and he says dadada alot!

His NEW favorite big boy achievement: water in a sippy cup!

Sporting the beanie.

I'm proud of Me...and him!

2010-10-10T15:59:00.000-07:00

These past 7 months have been so special. Carter and I have shared an incredible bond. I recently stopped nursing and I have to say I'm proud of me and him. We worked through the tough time of a nursing strike when he was 4 months...and I didn't give up. I went back to work and pumped, dealt with a 3 1/2 year old, and I took Fenugreek till I smelled like Maple Syrup to produce enough milk for my little chub chub. I'm proud of me and him. It has been the most unexplainable experience...one that I've shed happy and sad tears over. There aren't many things that I choose to toot my own horn about...but this is one of them. Sometimes in the middle of the night I still have urges to go in and nurse my sweet baby boy. All I can look back and say is that I'm proud of me...and him. It was amazing.

Pumpkin Patch 2010

2010-09-28T18:54:00.000-07:00

"touch my sister's pumpkin and I'll throw you overboard mate!"

Sister driving the tractor!

Brother you are the cutest scallywag there is!

Ghostbusters!

2010-09-21T19:54:00.000-07:00

BOO BABIES!

ps...they glow in the dark!

Brother! Your a big boy!

2010-09-08T19:47:00.001-07:00

His favorite play spot- on the floor surrounded by toys!
sleepy baby

sister did this to him...he was defensless in the bumbo!

Brother is now 6 months old! I remember when S turned 6m....life got a lot easier. Currently brother is still nursing like a champion (and I'm pretty proud of myself for nursing him this long!), he wakes up once in the middle of the night to nurse, he eats breakfast and dinner, is rolling back and forth like a rolly polly, laughs out loud, no teeth yet, grabs his feet all the time, still loves his paci, takes 3 naps per day, can't go to sleep without his snuggle bear, FINALLY started sleeping on his tummy, has one adorable freckle on the back of his neck, LOVES his sister and smiles when she wakes him up in the morning, his two favorite toys are his alligator and the letter Q from the bath letters! He is a total sweetheart!

Preschool for Scarlett

2010-09-08T19:27:00.000-07:00

All green smiley faces on her conduct chart!

First day with her classmates!

She didn't cry- but I did!

Scarlett's first week at preschool was a huge success! She had all green marks on her conduct! Her teacher Mrs. Tisdale was so sweet. Scarlett was having a hard time taking her naps so Mrs. Tisdale layed down with her to relax S a bit. It worked! She brought home several art projects and had her first show and tell! she took her red dance tutu, yellow Plex from Yo Gabba Gabba, and a picture of her and her brother.

Meet the teacher!

2010-08-19T19:45:00.000-07:00

Tonight was Meet the Teacher night at Scarlett's school. She got to see her classroom and meet her teacher and several of the kids who will be in her class. She did so great!

Tisdale's Texans! Scarlett's name is in the middle!

Her cubby where her folder and lunch kit go

Mrs. Tisdale, her Pre-K 3 teacher

Scarlett-ism

2010-08-19T13:50:00.000-07:00

setting: driving home during rush hour on 45

Me out loud: "ugh...let me over stupid car"

Me internally: I've got to stop saying stupid, Scarlett knows thats a bad word.

Scarlett: "Mommy...how are we going to get home in all of this crap?

Me interally: "when did I say crap?" CRAP.

My Little Dancer!

2010-08-07T11:39:00.001-07:00

Scarlett started dance today at Bonnie Siscoe and I could not have been more proud of her! She had NO problem going into her class with her fellow dancer friends. She followed directions, laughed, and overall just had a great time! She couldn't stop talking about it on the way home! Here are some pictures of her first (sniff- my heart swells with pride) class!

Here she is modeling her new dance attire: crop pants, ballet shoes, pink tights, black leotard, and bun cover!
Her teacher Miss Lauren (who was a Rangerette in 2007! Yea RETTES!)

Scarlett is to the left of Miss Lauren (way to push yourself up front sister!)
I'm SO Proud of her!

Moody Gardens Vacation 2010

2010-08-03T12:12:00.000-07:00

Our family minus the little man at Palm Beach. It was gorgeous!

Perusing the indoor Imax, Rainforest, and Discovery Museum. It was nice and cool indoors and brother fell right asleep!

Daddy and Scarlett swimming at Palm Beach.

I love my little man!

"ooohhhh...the rainforest is so cool!"

The Shippey Family's first vacation!

Moody Gardens

Galveston, tx

July 26-27, 2010

Practicing for Preschool!

2010-07-29T12:24:00.001-07:00

This year Scarlett will be attending Eagle Heights Christian Academy 2 days a week! She is soooo excited about this big girl step! Today we got her nap mat and practiced laying on it for naptime. There will be several changes coming her way in the next few months: naptime on a naptmat, eating in the cafeteria, being in a classroom without me or her Nonni, wearing a uniform, sharing :), and just overall being in a new place with LOTS of new people! I for one am excited about preschool because it is time she branched out a little bit. She tends to be VERY clingy and I am ready for her to make some new friends! She also starts dance at Bonnie Sisco School of Dance next week! Here is a pic of her "practicing" on her mat!

TWINS!

2010-07-28T06:24:00.000-07:00

Lately I have noticed (even more than before) how much my little munchkins favor...here is the evidence to prove it!

Carter 4.5 months

Scarlett 4 months

Isn't that INSANE?!!!

You better work!

2010-06-06T17:23:00.000-07:00

Enough said.

Oh cousin how I love you!

2010-06-05T07:24:00.000-07:00

Meet Thomas! This is Carter's 2nd cousin (once removed). They met for the first time last night when Heather brought Thomas over to the house.

Carter 13 weeks. Thomas 11 weeks

Beautiful kiddos!

Carter's 3 month birthday!

2010-05-30T13:03:00.001-07:00

Time really does fly. I can't believe our little man is already 3 months old. Currently, he is trying to roll over (no full roll yet, just attempts and partial nose dives into the matress!), he is beginning to reach for toys on his playmat (no full grabs yet, but I know its coming soon), and he constantly smiles! I mean, I wake up in the middle to nurse him and that boy is smiling even in the wee hours!!!I am still breastfeeding him and pumping at work- its tough, but well worth it!

Scarlett is still an amazing big sister! She hasn't tired of him yet, and is still my number 1 helper. She loves to play with his hair. She grabs it in her mouth and will gently pull and then grab more and pull...wierd, but cute at the same time! She loves him so much and I love to watch them interact. Everytime she comes around a smile will spread across his chunky little face.

Brother is growing so fast!!!

2010-05-22T18:00:00.001-07:00

9 weeks and smiling all the time!!!

Pointy chin just like Daddy!

Brother and Sister playing together!

Scarlett-ism

2010-05-22T17:52:00.000-07:00

Scarlett: Mommy can I take my tapping shoes to Nonni's tomorrow?

Me: No, because I don't want to go look for them and I'm tired.

Scarlett: But Mommy, I have to cut a rug at Nonni's tomorrow!

Me: Well then I better go grab your tapping shoes if your going to cut a rug!!!!

Scarlett-ism for the week

2010-05-18T04:56:00.000-07:00

Setting: at Sonic getting dinner

Me: Scarlettt, your my little tator tot.

Scarlett: No, I'm not!

Me: Yes, you are! Your my tiny little tator tot!

Scarlett: No I'm not because my head is too big.

Me: what?!!!!!!!

Scarlett-ism

2010-04-30T19:51:00.000-07:00

Scarlett: Mommy, you have pretty hair. You should go to high school.

Me: ?

Laugh of the day.

2010-04-28T19:27:00.000-07:00

Setting: getting out of the car.

Carter: screaming.

Scarlett: "Mom, he just wants to eat your boob."

Me: laugh.

Happy 6 weeks Brother!

2010-04-19T20:04:00.000-07:00

Carter is such a sweetie! Since his birth 6 weeks ago, he has DOUBLED in size! That's right, he now weighs about 12 pounds! I guess the breastmilk is doing him some good! Here are some current stats about our little man:

He smiles when you talk to him
He coo's and ahh's when he tries to communicate
LOVES tummy time and an occasional nap on the tummy
He is beginning to follow my voice around the room
Takes his passy well
Sometimes likes to be swaddled, other times doesn't like it at all!
Eats about every 31/2 to 4 hours
Has figured out his days and nights (FINALLY)
His offical nickname (for right now) is Brother or Brother Bear

5 weeks. He gets free entertainment all the time thanks to his sister!

6 weeks and loving tummy time with sister!

Bluebonnet Patch

This was a comical outing. Trying to get a 3 year old to hold a 6 week old and smile. Ha!

Brother Bear!

Reflections from the hospital

2010-03-28T14:43:00.000-07:00

The Shippey family!!

Big sister Scarlett and little brother Carter!

Just minutes after he was born!

Oh Scarlett, how you pull my heartstrings...

2010-03-27T16:16:00.000-07:00

Several nights ago Scarlett started asking me and Bryan if she could sleep with us. She has never had a problem sleeping in her own bed and has really never asked us if she could sleep with us- until Carter came along. She knows his bassinet is in our room and that he sleeps with mommy and daddy. How do you explain to a 3 year old that mommy and daddy really would LOVE to have their room all to themselves to sleep in peace...BUT little brother has to eat every 3 hours?! Last night Scarlett woke up twice asking for her daddy. The first time Bryan went in there to soothe her. The second time I went in there and she said to me "Mommy, my eyes want to be awake. I want to sleep in your room like Carter does. Can I, please?" AHHHHHHHH my poor heart broke when I told her no and tried to explain that he wakes up all the time and that she wouldn't get any sleep being in our room. This is what I'm talking about people- my heart breaking because I love her so much. She is so sweet and loving to Carter and me and Bryan. The sweeter she gets, the more I see God in her heart.

Presenting Carter Keith Shippey!

2010-03-21T19:21:00.001-07:00

Say hello to our little man! My very talented sis in law Christina Shippey captured these moments of Carter just days after his birth.

snuggle bug

wonderfully made.

What are you dreaming about brother?

This is what he does best!

Daddy's college glove

Little feet! So sweet!

Welcome to the world little man- we love you!

Carter's birth story, first week, and God's love...

2010-03-16T08:26:00.000-07:00

Well, the first week went by in a FLASH! That was seriously the fastest week of my life, one minute it was Monday and I was going to the hospital, the next it was Friday and we were entering the weekend...is this something that happens to all people who have more than one kid, or just a newborn?! I always love to hear about other people's birth stories. I don't know why, I just find it so interesting to hear how it all went down. I also want to hear the good, the bad, the ugly, and all the details going on in a new parent's life- I'm a realist- a connector- I just like to hear the real behind the scenes details to life. So- I share mine with you...

I had an induction scheduled on Monday morning, March 8th. I called at 6 am to see if they had room for me and they did not. Weirdly, I was so peaceful on Monday. I had prayed fervently that God would give me peace about the induction since it was not the way I had Scarlett and I was having second thoughts. God reassured me with a peace only he could have given me on Monday and after I got off the phone with the hospital, I went back to sleep! The hospital called me back at 8:00 and asked if I could be there by 9. We packed up everything in the car, dropped Scarlett off with Angie ( who took great care of her!) and then drove to Texas Women's Hospital. We checked in, got in a room, and immediately began the process. I felt a little wierd going to the hospital, showing up, and thinking "I'm about to have a baby". I was dilated to a 3 when I arrived, and had already been having contractions. They began the pitocin drip at around 10:00. By 12:00 the baby's heart rate began to drop, so the nurse asked me to turn on my side to relieve the baby. I did and nothing happened, so I turned on the other side and still nothing happened! She checked my cervix and I was dilated to a 9! WOW! She called my doctor ASAP and 4 pushes later Carter arrived at 1:09 pm. It was beautiful! I could still feel enough pressure to push, but no pain. It was such a different experience from Scarlett's birth ( 3 hours of pushing, AND she was turned wrong, and it ended in a vacuum suction). The nurse let Bryan cut the cord, and placed Carter on my chest. It was an irreplaceable moment and delivery. God is so good!

We got home on Wednesday and things around the house have been both peaceful and stressful. Adjusting to 2 kiddos is difficult because I want to pay attention to Scarlett, but have to adjust to Carter breastfeeding every 2 hours! I love both of my children. I honestly wasn't sure how I could love another child as much as my first. It is possible and I feel the love of God being shown to me in the most wonderful ways. The first person to show me God's love has been Scarlett. She has shown an unselfish love towards her brother the minute she met him. She has the kindest spirit I have EVER seen in any human being- and I'm not saying that just because she is my daughter. She loves her brother so much that it almost hurts me to see it...does that make sense to any of you out there? The next person of course is my husband...my rock. He takes the late shifts, the poopy diapers, my emotional breakdowns all in stride, he prays for me and our family. I love him for that. Next, our friends and families that have generously prepared meals for us. I can't thank all of you enough for your selfless love towards our family. I know you all are DYING to see pics, but I will get them up soon...

Carter is Here!

2010-03-11T12:03:00.000-08:00

Carter Keith Shippey was born on March 8, 2010.

6 pounds 9 ounces

19 3/4 inches long

1:09 pm

Pics soon!

Happy 3rd Birthday Scarlett!

2010-03-01T14:36:00.000-08:00

Scarlett just turned 3! She had a great celebration doing ALL of her favorite things!On Saturday we had a party at the house with all of her friends and our families. Tinkerbell even showed up for the party! After that, on Monday (her actual bday) we went to lunch at Chic-Fil-A with some more friends to celebrate! That evening after dinner, we finished off her birthday cake at home. What fun we had! Scarlett, we love you baby girl. You are such a blessing to our lives. You are everything to your mommy and daddy!

With Daddy and her Tinkerbell cake

She can't wait to eat it!

Birthday lunch with friend Luke

She's 3!

More bday lunch friends: Cade and Ashton

Birthday party!!! Scarlett and Peyton eating their ice cream!

Bday party friends with special appearance of Tinkerbell!

From L to R: Callie, Luke, Ashton, Peyton, Scarlett, Jordan, Charity, Brady, Madelynn, Lorelai, and Maddox

Scarlett and Tink!

38 weeks...and counting down!

2010-02-25T17:06:00.000-08:00

Here I am- about to pop! Scarlett wanted to kiss her brother and give him some "luv"!

The beast she conquered!

2010-02-18T14:35:00.000-08:00

Last month Pearland hosted their annual "Winterfest" celebration. As Bryan and I were walking with Scarlett through the moonwalks she looked up at the GIANT saber tooth cat-beast and said "I want to do that one". To my shocked surprise I looked at her and said "You do? Are you sure? It's really big (and scary, and monsterous, and it will eat you alive, and I will have to climb up there to rescue you after you freak out at the top, etc.)" But my surprisingly brave little girl said "yes". So there she went, I watched with pride (and horror) as my delicate toddler started to climb up the stairs of the MASSIVE BEAST. Bryan and I are completly shocked as she made it to the top by herself and climbed over to the slide. As she looked at us from the top of the beast my heart beat wildly in my chest...then she began to slide down, and then tumble down...flipping head over feet down the cat's back...OH MY GOSH...I'm FREAKING out because my child is going to die on the back of an extinct blow up animal. Then, she makes it to the bottom, tears running down her red, cold, little cheeks. Bryan scoops her up (because he is more proud than concerned!) and she cries even harder. After all was said and done, we took a picture in front of her biggest accomplishment (literally).

my sunshine

2010-01-25T16:41:00.000-08:00

Sunday Lounging

2010-01-17T12:19:00.000-08:00

After church today Scarlett told me she wanted to stay outside and sunbathe with Simey-cat. In our new house I can open the back door and see her playing in the backyard (perfect!)so when I turned to check on her, here is what I found.

My sweet girl with my even sweeter (and ever patient) cat sunbathing.

7 months!

2010-01-08T14:46:00.000-08:00

Well, it's happening! Let me start by saying I am no stranger to cankles during pregnancy! I wish I would have taken pictures of my GIANT ankles when I was pregnant with Scarlett- this time I am brave enough to post my cankles on the blog! I don't even know why this happens to me...I guess I am just lucky. Notice the left ankle- who knows why on this night only that one felt like engorging itself.

31 weeks!

What she has been up to

2009-12-18T13:29:00.000-08:00

Scarlett has my heart. I am in love with my girl. She has really developed such a sweet and strong personality over the past few months.

Here is what she has been up to lately...

-favorite sayings: "hush up cats", "I love you", "why?", "what he/she said?" (after I get off of the phone), "Mommy hold you" (when she wants me to hold her), "Mommy snuggle with me"

-favorite songs: "Single Ladies" by Beyonce (still), "Cowboy Casanova" by Carrie Underwood, and "Sing, Sing, Sing" by Chris Tomlin

- favorite game: putting on her tutu and dancing around the house with pom poms in hand, playing teacher, chasing Daddy around the house, tickling

-favorite food: Oranges, cereal, eggs, and Chic-Fil-A

-favorite movie: The Grinch

-What I love most about her: she knows scripture in that little heart, she understands when I explain that Christmas is Jesus' birthday, she loves to snuggle, she tells me she loves me before I tell her, she loves to give kisses, she is SUCH a girly girl, she loves to watch movies with me and Bryan, she gives Carter kisses and asks about him, and she tells me she is sorry when she hurts my feelings- so sweet!

I know that I only have 3 months left alone with her before Carter comes- so I am trying to soak up all of her that I can before my attention is averted towards our next little one. It is such a blessing to be a mom.

Breakfast at the Aquarium with Santa!

2009-12-13T12:24:00.000-08:00

Scarlett met Santa for the first time EVER this past Saturday at the Aquarium in Kemah. Previously, she has been SCARED TO DEATH of the jolly fellow, but this year she has gathered the strength to meet him! We went with Aunti Lou, Alishia, and Nonni to have breakfast with Santa and watch him swim in the giant tank with all of the beautiful fish!

This is what we saw when we walked in. Santa in the tank swimming with the fish...look at the shark above his head!

Scarlett wasn't sure about all of this, even though we had been talking about it for forever... P.S. you can see Carter VERY well in this pic!

When we ate breakfast, Santa got out of the tank, dried off, and came to visit our table!

Mommy, Scarlett, and Nonni

Auntie Lou, Scarlett, and Alishia

She did it! Her first picture with Santa!

Snow! Woohoo!

2009-12-04T12:36:00.000-08:00

It's official! We have seen snow here in Houston!

Testing for flavor...

Front yard!

The snow actually stuck to the roof! This is a big deal!

Christmas Decorating!

2009-11-27T13:33:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
It's been a while since my last post because we moved! That's what has taken up all of my free time! I plan on posting outside pics of the new house once we have put the lights up and Bryan gives me the ok to post! (He is the mastermind to all things/decorating outdoors!) We started decorating the inside today. Scarlett helped by putting ornaments on our tree. She insisted on trying to fit all of the ornaments on one branch!

Her cheesy smile!

Trying to fit one more on...

Trick or Treat

2009-11-01T10:07:00.000-08:00

Our Halloween was great! Scarlett LOVED her Little Bo Peep costume. We went to the Pearland Trick or Treat trail, then to some friend's houses, then home! The weather was perfect! Here is a collage of Scarlett's outings...

Memories!

2009-10-26T19:39:00.000-07:00

Just had to add a nostalgic touch to the blog. Here are myself and one of my bestest friends (Jodi R.) We were so young! Yea Rettes!

Girl time with Scarlett

2009-10-23T20:39:00.000-07:00

Scarlett and I made sugar cookies on Thursday night. This was her first real baking experience...meaning I let her stir the batter, spoon it on the tray, put frosting on the cookies, add sprinkles, and eat till her little heart was content!

stirring the batter

putting it on the tray

letting them cool

putting on the frosting. The shirt had to come off at this point because, well, you know...it got a little messy!

licking the frosting!

beautiful!

look mommy...I'm messy!

I love her.

Not me Wednesday...

2009-10-21T20:00:00.000-07:00

I am stealing this idea from my friend Kristin, (thanks girl!) who posts "Not Me Mondays". I have laughed hard reading her posts, so here is my version...on a Wednesday.

Not Me Wednesday....

I would never let my daughter endlessly lick cream cheese frosting off a butter knife right before her bedtime....

I would never let the bath water run for 10 minutes straight just to keep her occupied while I sat on the toilet and finally got to read my new Real Simple magazine in peace...

I would never throw away a barbie when Scarlett wasn't looking just so I don't have another toy to keep up with...no, that's definately not me!

It's a...

2009-10-18T10:56:00.000-07:00

Carter Keith Shippey will join us in March!

Fall is in the air!

2009-10-13T06:49:00.000-07:00

Hope you have a great day! Here's what greets you at our humble abode...

curls!

2009-10-08T16:16:00.000-07:00

Scarlett FINALLY let me curl her hair!

tutus and ice cream

2009-09-28T19:08:00.000-07:00

Scarlett is attached to this tutu. We cleaned out her closet yesterday and it was an instant reconnection! She wore it to church on Sunday night, and today insisted on taking it to Nonni's house. While they were playing outside the tunes of the ice cream truck lured Scarlett and Nonni to purchase a creamy concoction...this is the result!

America's next top model (toddler edition)

2009-09-23T16:15:00.000-07:00

Scarlett modeling her new "fall" collection

she's so serious..

look at those knobby knees!

leaning against the stove- VERY modelesque

On our knees

2009-09-22T04:58:00.001-07:00

Hello freinds and prayer partners,

Please look a this family's blog and pray for their situation.

"My God is mighty to save, he is mighty to save."

http://www.bandssullivan.blogspot.com/

Didn't see that one coming

2009-09-06T13:32:00.000-07:00

Last night we went out to eat with some friends of ours. Scarlett announced she needed to go pee-pee so I grabbed her and we headed to the restroom. After successfully using the potty (yea we are potty trained with minimal accidents!) we started to wash her hands. As she held her hands under the running water I pumped the soap from the counter dispenser into her palms. The soap dispenser apparentley was clogged because instead of it going into her hands it shot straight into her eyes! She screamed in agony...I wadded about a thousand paper towels and started blotting her red eyes. I was freaking out! I finally got most of it washed out, and she stopped crying after about 10 minutes. Poor baby....she didn't see that one coming. And neither did I!

10 year class reunion

2009-08-31T18:44:00.000-07:00

Here we are circa 1996. Young, in love, and at the cheerleader banquet. This was our first official "date" since my parents would not let me ride in cars with boys ANYWHERE. EVER. I was in 9th grade and Bryan was in 10th.

Fast forward to 2009. Here we are at Bryan's 10 year reunion (I think we look better now than we did then!) We had a blast reuniting with old classmates and friends. Some people haven't changed a bit! Well, Bryan and I certainly have, don't you think?! ***Side note- no, that is not a beverage in Bryan's hand, it was a dude behind us.

She's a BIG girl now!

2009-08-25T19:06:00.000-07:00

Okay, only a mother can be as proud as me! Scarlett's lightbulb FINALLY turned on in the pooing department and she is now going in the POTTY! Here is a picture of her victory (along with her baby who is pooing also)! YEAH!!!

Our last vacation of the summer

2009-08-21T17:23:00.000-07:00

Before the hustle and bustle of life begins again (for teachers anyway!) we skipped away to beautiful New Braunfels for one last getaway. Here are some candid pics I took while vacationing.

The view of the river from our little condo.

Famous Gruene Hall

The Lawrence/ Beninati/ and Shippey families

Me and Bryan at Gruene Hall

Me, mom, and Jana

Cast your votes!

2009-07-31T20:48:00.000-07:00

The news is official, baby # 2 is coming in March! What do you think we are having next?! Boy or girl?

A trip we won't forget!

2009-07-04T10:20:00.000-07:00

For starters, let me say that I will never forget the trip that my sister-in-law Christina and I took to Rice University! It started as a photo expedition...we took our cameras and were on a mission to "play" with our camera settings, light, different scenery, etc. We loaded up, drove to Rice, parked at the Village, walked 30 minutes to campus (hey, you can't beat free parking even if you do have to walk miles...), and started looking for cool places to take each other's pictures. Christina is incredible. She is a photographer and is way too modest in evaluating her talent. She was so patient with me, teaching me how to manually fix the settings on my camera, helping me with the light, posing for me....I am learning so much because of her unselfish nature. I do not want to become a professional, but I do want to learn how to shoot in manual, and she is helping me learn along the way!

Ok, on with the story. We found a blue wall.... I enhanced the blue on the wall using picnik. I only had to do this a little bit since I was shooting in manual and the colors are so much better and richer in manual.

We found this leaf on the grass. In picnik I tweaked the color and saturation, then I added the 1960's application.

On this one, I applied the infrared application. I love it because it is similar to the black and white application, but with infrared the shadows and darker colors are more deep. I love Christina's freckles...don't you?!

This one was taken on the lawn of Rice University. I applied the Boost application, then ran the Lomo-ish application. To put on a finish, I added a vignette around the edges. I really like the final product!
Towards the end of our afternoon, we met a man on the campus named David Engle. His passion is photography and taking panoramic pictures with his point and shoot camera. He stitched the pictures together using software called Gigapan. He gave us a tour around campus, and then asked if he could "gigapan" me and Christina! It was alot of fun...as you can see we are in the panoramic several times! If you want to see the image of us closer visit here. I never thought I would be famous BUT since David has uploaded our gigapan we have been in the top 40 hits on the site! It was a trip I will never forget!

photo shot by David Engle using Gigapan

Panama City, Florida

2009-06-29T08:03:00.000-07:00

Out trip to Florida was a great one! I had never been to a Florida beach before, so this experience was very special to me since I got to be with Bryan and Scarlett. Let me explain that this was not a family vacation...it was our youth church camp trip! We traveled on a charter bus with 75 teens!!! The trip was 12 hours long! Scarlett did amazing on the bus, she enjoyed watching movies with the youth, watching and playing with iphones, and playing with her friends Noah, Asher, Alex, and baby Ashton!
We left on Sunday at 10pm and drove through the night. In the morning we had a flat tire (on a charter bus!) that left us hanging out at a McDonalds for over 3 hours! After that little setback we were on the road again- eager to reach our sunny destination. We got to the retreat center and headed straight for the white sandy beach!
I witnessed not only beautiful scenery, but also lives being transformed. Our youth had an amazing revival and it was beautiful to see. Here are some pictures I got while we were there...I am already anxious to visit again!

Scarlett

At Pier Park

Beach time!

All the boys -including men- wanted mohawks for the week!

Our "house" for the week

Pier Park

Shippey Family

Daddy and Scarlett

The Shippey Girls!

This one reminds me of the "Coppertone" baby!

Friends!

Beach Babe!

Back from Panama City!

2009-06-27T21:41:00.000-07:00

Hello people! We are back from Florida and I have a fresh batch of pics to share with you. But you will have to wait until I have enough time to upload them...it will be very soon, I promise! Keep checking back with me- I will have them up for your enjoyment soon enough!

I'm obsessed!

2009-06-19T13:10:00.000-07:00

For all of you that don't know, I love the Twilight series. I'm not the over obsessive fan who goes crazy over everything Edward (although I do drool over his character). I just really enjoy the books and they have my attention. Today I stumbled across a website that is perfect for people like me. Visit it if you are someone who enjoys the books and has issues with finding yourself wanting to be Bella: Twilight Disorder

P.S. I am finishing Eclipse, the third book in the series and can't wait to start Breaking Dawn. So all of you out there who have read it, don't let out too many details!

P.P.S. If you want to go see New Moon with me, leave a comment!!!

watermelon, dinner party, and cartoons

2009-06-14T20:17:00.000-07:00

Whew- what a weekend! It was a great one. On Saturday, my mom picked up Scarlett so she could spend the night with her since Bryan and I were hosting our first dinner party (complete with blue tumbler cups from Wal-Mart! Ghetto, I know!) Let me explain why we hosted the dinner party... the youth at our church are fervently raising money to go to summer camp in Florida. At church we had dinner auctions that people could "bid" on. All money raised went to help sponsor a student to go to camp. I have to say our menu was mouth watering. I can't take all the credit, my dad "Chef Larry" is a personal chef and owns his own catering business, prepared a delicious meal from start to finish! We started with bruschetta, then a wedge salad with homemade bleu cheese dressing, for the main course we had chicken piccatta with fresh green beans and garlic mashed potatoes, and then for the finale: BANANAS FOSTER!! My stomach was so full and happy! I really had a great time with our good friends from church, they are a second family to us.

Meanwhile, back at Nana's house Scarlett was being spoiled rotten. She got to watch all the cartoons she could endure, got new shoes and several new outfits (courtesy of Nana and Papa's bank account, of course!) She even got to sip her own cup of coffee...ohhh brother, the things grandparents let their grandchildren do!! Nana bought her a new flower pool to play in, and they took the dogs for a walk down to the bay:) Here is the collage I made on Picnik of our fantastic weekend!

Beautiful Graduation

2009-06-13T08:09:00.000-07:00

My beautiful baby sister graduated in May from Texas A&M Corpus Christi with a Nursing degree. I am so proud of her! She is a loving, adventurous creation! She is so much fun to be around, I love you sis! Congratulations!

**This picture was taken by the fabby Christina Shippey, and I edited it using Picnik

I love to play

2009-06-12T12:44:00.001-07:00

I love to play on websites that let me alter pictures. Since I am NOT an experienced photographer, but LOVE to take pictures, these sites make me feel better about my mad photog skills (wink)!!! I just discovered Picnik its a FREE site that you can spend all day on!! Here are a few farm pics that I played with!It was really fun, and I can't wait to play more...

I always like to look back...

2009-05-31T19:55:00.000-07:00

I have been feeling a bit nostaligic lately. These pictures were taken in May of 2007. It was our first trip to Galveston and Scarlett was just 3 months old! I just felt the need to post since she was such a cute little butterball! Ohhh I miss those days! They grow so fast!

Down on the funny farm

2009-05-24T20:31:00.001-07:00

Meet Henry...this little dude lives on our front porch. He has now become a member of our family. Every morning and night Scarlett asks "where's Henry?" and then proceeds to call him like a dog "HENRYYYYYYYY!!!!!" We like him and hopes that he will "stick around" hahaha- get it (tree frogs have very sticky pads on the tips of their fingers) ok, sorry it was a lame joke, but I had to do it.

Henry on his throne

Meet "Siimey cat". This is one of our boys. Scarlett's favorite cat. He lets her do pretty much anything to him, hence the reason she LOVEs him!

here they are "snuggling" as Scarlett puts it.

Awww..she is sharing her paci with him! What a sweetie! Unfortunatley, I don't think he wanted it.

New Project/Blog

2009-05-13T19:26:00.000-07:00

I and a few of my friends have started a new blog: www.askyourgirls.blogspot.com

Mother's Day 2009

2009-05-11T15:51:00.001-07:00

Mothers Day 2009 started with a love letter my hubby wrote me- no card this year, instead he wrote the SWEETEST letter to me and put it on the mirror in the bathroom so I could see it when I got out of the shower (smile!) Then, we headed to church- have I told you HOW MUCH I LOVE MY CHURCH? As all of the moms left church, we were given a beautiful red rose (another smile!) Then we headed to my Aunt and Uncle's house in Humble for some fun in the sun and a pool side BBQ party!!! What a great day spent with the ones I love!

My family

Jantie, Me, Diane living it up!

Scarlett in the hot tub!

Volleyball!

Cutter and Scarlett in the baby pool! Ha!

Put a ring on it!

2009-05-06T20:08:00.000-07:00

Scarlett's FAVORITE song and dance move (thanks Beyonce!)Pause the song on the right toolbar BEFORE you watch the video!

bubbles!

2009-05-06T15:17:00.000-07:00

Pause the song on the side tool bar to listen and watch the video!

convo of the day

2009-05-05T16:33:00.000-07:00

Nonni "Scarlett, where did you get those blue eyes?"

Scarlett "at Wal Mart"

Nonni "How much did they cost?"

Scarlett "2 minutes"

whew! picture frame earing holders complete!

2009-04-22T10:18:00.000-07:00

I played hooky today to make all of the picture frame earring holders for our Spring Fling Fashion Show this Saturday....think of it as a mental health day. This is what I felt like after I got done. please let me know what you think, or if you have ideas!

animal print cuties!

I love this one, floral and leopard print.
I think I want to add something on the corners though.

Damask

Gettin' Ziggy with it!

Lemongrass

Vintage Chic

new goal

2009-04-15T20:10:00.000-07:00

Okay gals, I need your support and help...I am starting a new goal: all water for 21 days. Recently, I have been on Diet Dr. Pepper overload. OVERLOAD. I just want to see how much weight I can loose. And if I really do feel healthier in the process. Also, I am weaning from my anxiety medication in preparation for baby #2 (SMILE!) and I need to be as caffiene free as possible. Please hold me accountable, ask me how its going, bother me.

P.S. I don't know why 21 days- it just popped in my head.
P.P.S. One time I tried this when I was 19 and I lost alot of weight...has anyone else ever tried this and been successful?

Wish me luck!

Get a move on it!

2009-04-15T05:18:00.001-07:00

Ok- the Spring Fling Fashion Expo is only two weeks away...and I have made only 1 frame! AHHH! I need to get a move on it- don't you think?!

The Hang Up

2009-04-07T19:37:00.001-07:00

Here is my latest creation: picture frame earing holders. I have soooooo many earings and not enough places to hang them. So, I started creating these little cuties. What do you think? I am naming my little business The Hang Up and I am selling them at the Spring Fling Fashion Expo on Saturday April 25th @ Crosspoint Fellowship. Let me know if you want one, I can make them any color and with any fabric...I will be posting more pics soon! I am also playing around with adding broaches, feathers, and flowers to the frames. Comments or ideas are welcome!

**Please do not judge me on the poor quality of the picture. My camera is broken so I had to take the pictures with my video camera :( Boo broken camera.

What are you doing this Saturday?

2009-04-06T16:55:00.000-07:00

Coming to the Great Pearland Egg Drop I hope!

http://www.pearlandeggdrop.com/

Let me know if you are coming so I can look for you!

Her first night

2009-04-03T19:32:00.000-07:00

Last night Scarlett slept in her big girl bed in her new big girl room. All of this suddenly came about..I was hoping to put off the big girl room for a while, but fate had other plans. As I have told you before, Scarlett started climbing out of her crib recently. In hopes that it was just a phase, Bryan and I would endure sleepless nights of putting her back into her bed while she would turn right around and plop out. I say plop because she would literally toss a leg over the railing and plop right onto the floor. To ensure that our daughter would not end up with a broken arm or collar bone, a decision had to be made and fast.
So, yesterday afternoon, on a whim, we decided that Scarlett needed a new start. A new toddler bed and a new big girl room. We switched her bedroom with our guest room, put her new bed in and gave it a little decoration (if any of you know me well, the decoration part is not finished and I will be garage saling like a madwoman for cool stuff!) Anyway, we pumped her up last night as she was helping us move her into her new room. The time had come for bedtime...I was nervous. What would my little baby feel like without rails on all 4 sides to hold her in and keep her safe? Will she be ok farther away from me? Will this be the end of her baby days? As I was pondering and on the brink of tears, I prayed with Scarlett. We prayed for a safe and peaceful night, and for her to feel secure as God's angels flew over her to protect her. We read two books, drank her warm milk, and gave eskimo and lip kisses. Then, I closed the door.
What happens next made me miserable...she cried so hard she threw up...twice. Here we go into the room, I changed her clothes, wiped her down, Bryan cleaned the floor. Lets try this again...Super Nanny has a "floor technique" that works for her...so I sat on the floor next to her bed until she drifted off. EUREKA! I had a sleeping baby...I tiptoed out of the room to collapse on the couch. We headed off to bed, not knowing when we were going to have to wake up again.
I heard her cry out at some point, but I didn't go to her rescue. I wanted to see if she could get herself back to sleep. She cried for about 30 minutes and then I didn't hear anything, so I went back to sleep thinking that she soothed herself back into a slumber. I awoke this morning and quietly opened the door to check on my big girl. I looked in the bed, expecting to see a little angel curled up and asleep. No angel in the bed...instead my little angel was...are you ready for this?.... on the floor butt naked laying face down on top of all of her toys! I freaked out! Why didn't she have her clothes on?!!!!! Poor baby was laying on Mr. Potato Head and a CD that she had taken out of the player. Her blankie was wadded up underneath her. OH MY GOSH! I didn't know whether to grab the camera or go grab Bryan...I picked the latter...Bryan got up to see her and we both looked at each other with the most confused, humored faces! It was funny to see her out cold naked as a jay bird on top of a mound of toys. I'm thinking she started playing and then decided to play strip poker with her baby dolls and she lost. Let's hope tonight she keep the clothes on and stays in the bed! Forgive me for not taking a picture, now I wished I would have. I was just so shocked to find her that way that I picked her up, put a fresh diaper on her, clothed her and held her tight. My baby had just survived her first night.

Ant bites look like other things....

2009-03-27T12:02:00.000-07:00

The other night we were playing outside and Scarlett got into ants. A lot of them. I rushed over to her, rinsed off her little legs, and we put Cortizone cream all over them. The next day she came up to me and put her little foot on my leg. By this time her ant bites had white heads on them. She looked up at me and said "mommy, look: nipples!" I have never laughed so hard at my child! The cutie thought her ant bites looked like nipples...classic!!!

Bluebonnet Patch

2009-03-25T16:42:00.001-07:00

Our first trip: a manageable newborn.

Our trip to the bluebonnet patch was well, let me say short. Scarlett did not feel like having her pictures taken today. This one was my favorite. Not your classic pose, but the wind was blowing her dress and she was looking over her shoulder just perfectly. I converted this picture using this cool site .

Rooting my faith

2009-03-25T11:25:00.000-07:00

"Then Christ will make His home in your heart as you trust in Him. Your roots will grow down deep into God's love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand as all God's people should how wide, how long, how high, how deep his love is for you. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to fully understand" Ephesians 3:17-19

This is my prayer.

Froberg's Farm

2009-03-23T10:14:00.000-07:00

Spring Break is here! We kicked it off by going to Froberg's Farm in Alvin to pick fresh strawberries with our friends Angie, Luke, and Brady. We picked 2.80 worth of berries, plenty enough for a fresh fruit salad and a homemade strawberry pie! The kids had a blast, and so did Angie and I. The weather was perfect and the farm was relaxing and peaceful. Here are a few shots from our adventure.

Frober's Farm

Alvin, Tx

Old Oak Tree overlooking the patch

Her first pick!

Berry Sweet!

Juicy! No need for washing!

Bucket o' goods.

My favorite candy! Freshly made on the farm.

Scarlett holding a fresh green bean...she ate it...then spit it out!

yummy!

After all of the fresh fruit and veggies, Scarlett and Luke spotted the candy!

Well, it happened.

2009-03-21T19:22:00.001-07:00

Tonight marked a milestone in Scarlett's toddler life: she climbed out of her crib. I heard her crying in her room (more like screaming!) and I went in to check on her and she had climbed out of her crib. How do I know this? I knocked her on her butt with the door when I opened it to check on her. I felt so bad! Not only had she crawled out of her crib, but she was crying even more uncontrolably now! Then, she got so worked up that she threw up all over the floor. YEAH!

Scarlett's Birthday at The Little Gym

2009-03-15T16:15:00.001-07:00

We had Scarlett's 2nd Birthday at The Little Gym. She loved running and playing with all of her friends!!!

Gettin' the hang of it!

Pull Ups!

Scarlett and Noah- it looks like she is about to hit him...that's how she flirts!

Peyton and Amanda

Luke monkeyin' around!

Beating the maracas!

Parachute time!

Drum sticks! Cool!

Bouncy time!

Tired girl!

Bubbles!!!!!

Yo Gabba Gabba Cake (thanks Joy Farmer!)

Blowing out her candles

the Shippey Family

cake time!

no regrets...

2009-03-10T19:17:00.000-07:00

Tonight I ate fried chicken at the park, two cake balls (chocolate), and two brownies...and I have no regrets. It was good.

Cowgirls at heart

2009-03-09T21:26:00.000-07:00

The Rodeo always spurs (no pun intended!) my inner cowgirl. No- I never had horses, but I dreamed of them. I would go to horse camp every summer and be the reject that had to borrow a horse. I knew- and know everything about horses. I want to own a horse one day. One day. In the meantime, I quench my thirst to be a cowgirl by going to the Houston Rodeo.

Last week we went with some of our best friends Jodi and Tyler. We got to see Clay Walker. Scarlett really enjoyed the WHOLE experience. She loved the animals, the food, the concert, ALL of it! Tonight, I got to see Lady Antebellum. They are one of my favorite country bands right now. It was so much fun. My friends Heather and Jodi went with me and we scouted the ENTIRE ground from the shopping to the food to the livestock to the horse arena to the concert to the carnival- we did it all! Thanks for all who make my rodeo experience a memorable one!

My baby is 2 today!

2009-03-01T10:02:00.000-08:00

Scarlett Grace Shippey

March 1, 2007

12:03 pm

19 1/2 inches, 6 pounds 4 ounces

1 year

2 years

Dear Scarlett,

I love you my babykins. You are the sweetest gift God has ever given me. I love to hear you sing, laugh, gurgle, and even cry. Sometimes I still wake up in the middle of the night just to watch you sleep. I put my hand on your chest to make sure you are still breathing-that's how much I love you.

When I think about being your mommy it makes my heart swell with pride. You love books, horsies, balloons, Gabba, Mickey, Elmo, choo choo soul, and Simon. And guess what? They all love you too! You have the most beautiful singing voice! I love to listen to your little voice! Maybe one day you will sing for the Lord.

I pray over you little one, that you will grow to know the Lord at an early age. That you will accept him as your Lord and Savior. That you will serve him all of your days.

Happy Birthday Toots, mommy loves you to Pluto and beyond!

Conversation of the day

2009-02-06T19:23:00.000-08:00

My friend Angie has been posting these ohhh too cute conversations that she and her son have had, so I thought I would piggyback on her idea. Here is the conversation of the day with Scarlett:

Bryan: [laughing at The Office]
Scarlett: "Daddy, that's FUNNY!!!!!"
Me: [thinking] how does she know the word funny?
Me: [thinking again] thanks to The Office, my child will have a skewed version of sarcastic humor. Welcome to the world little one.

We are...

2009-01-31T19:37:00.000-08:00

WE are: sisters, family, best friends, silly, beautiful, risk takers, energetic, on the go, slow down, free, loved, creative, educated, reflective, teacher, nurse, mommy, daughter, spirited, funky, fashionistas, accessory junkies, movie lovers, dancers, readers, toe tappers, dance in your car, call me, a shoulder to cry on, festive, caring, independent, artists, passionate, faithful...WE are family.

Photography by Christina Shippey

This is what we made

2009-01-31T10:47:00.001-08:00

Saturdays at our house are usually very busy. But this morning we all stayed in to relax. This is what we made together...Scarlett loves to play with money. I loved spending time with my baby girl doing silly things like putting all the coins in a line. Its trivial- but it means the world to her for me to sit down and "pay" (her version of play)with her with all my attention solely focused on her.

Pearland Winter Fest

2009-01-26T11:33:00.001-08:00

I really love living in this area. There is always something to do- like going to the Pearland Winter Festival! We went with some friends of ours and Scarlett's new "boyfriend" Noah. I think we have made an arrangement for their marriage- isn't he a handsome little man?!

"I dip it!"

2009-01-26T11:21:00.000-08:00

The girl LOVES dipping sauces. I know it seems like we live off of fast food since that has been brought up in one of my previous blogs, but I really do cook I swear! Toots has been sick for about 2 weeks now so I took her to the doc today to see whats up. She has a throat infection that is covered with green slime. Sounds delightful huh?! So, to entice her to eat (since she hasn't in 3 days) I took her to Chic-fil-a to get her some nuggets and "dip it" -aka sauce. It worked as you can see.

Pup sitting

2009-01-24T18:54:00.001-08:00

We are puppy sitting this weekend for some friends of ours from church. Maggie Mae is our new little friend's name and she is a mini Yorkie! We have had alot of fun with her this weekend, especially Scarlett. We are getting a dog this summer so this is excellent training for us. I want a Pug and Bryan can't decide what he wants...any suggestions? We just don't want something that will have to be groomed or that barks like crazy. So far, our little house guest has been a charm!

I love girl time!

2009-01-21T18:59:00.000-08:00

Tonight Scarlett and I went to Charming Charlie. Previously, when I have taken her in there she has gone buck wild. She would run up and down the aisles with her arm out knocking all of the necklaces everywhere. Tonight, I felt like I was shopping with my friend...she was so cute to watch. She would pick up a ring or bracelet and say "mommy pretty?" Ohhh I love my baby girl!

I caved in

2009-01-18T17:50:00.000-08:00

Ok I admit it- I was one of those people who vowed to NEVER let my child eat McDonalds more than twice per month or wear characters on their clothing. I caved in...lets just face it McDonalds is convenient and GOOD! Who can resist their salty, crispy fries? And, they are trying to get healthier- they have apple wedges and apple juice. Thats got to count for something right? Oh yea- and their chicken nuggets are all white meat now, no boot looking dark meat nuggets that we grew up eating. SO to justify myself- no never mind I don't have to- Me and my child LOVE McDonalds. I guess I'll just have to throw in an extra set of 50 crunches when I eat there!
On to the characters...Scarlett LOVES Yo Gabba Gabba. It is a t.v. show on Nick Jr. where this skinny black guy with a fro comes in carrying this boombox. When he sets it down and opens it up 5 little characters are exposed: Muno, Toodie, Plex, Foofa, and Brobee. I have watched countless episodes and I have to say it...I LOVE Yo Gabba Gabba too! The show has great themes like Don't bite your friends, share, fun, eat, etc. They even sing this one song "There's a party in my tummy...so yummy...so yummy!" I think it is cute to watch Scarlett dance and sing along with the characters. So that leads me to humble my fashionable self and let my daughter wear Yo Gabba Gabba characters on her clothing. If it makes her happy- I am happy too. Hey- being a parent sure has changed my mind about alot of things. So to all of you out there cringing at those characters on shoes and shirts- I at one time was with you, but now I have crossed over to the dark side of nuggets and Gabba land.