I Never Thought I'd Say This...

.... but I think we may need to get a dog.

Ashleigh has now renamed Jake to Coal, and he is now our family dog. She has attached a rope to his wrist and is pulling him around the house as if he is on a leash. She offers him treats when he sits, stays, and comes when she calls. She pets him and rubs his tummy. The worst part is, he now crawls on all fours and barks instead of telling me what he wants.

Gotta get some pics of this... even though it's slightly disturbing, it's nice watching them play together so sweetly! LOL

Happy Birthday Angel!

Wow! It's my baby girl's 4th birthday today and I honestly don't know where the time went. She has become such an independent, intelligent, and sweet little girl and I just couldn't be any prouder of her.
Ash is the most kind and gentle little girl I know, always taking time out to help her little friends or make sure that they're ok. She is her baby brother's protector and I've never seen a sister love her brother more. It honestly brings me to tears when I see how much they love each other. She loves to read, sing, and dance... she just loves to perform! She would live in skirts (not dresses) if I let her and loves having her hair, nails and make up done. She has an unmatched sweet tooth, but she also loves her veggies (mainly tomatoes) and her fruit (mainly grapes).
This year she completed her first year of preschool where she excelled both academically and socially. She made so many new friends (and boyfriends much to daddy's dismay). We also enrolled her in gymnastics at LGF and she loved it! Her Year End Show is tonight and I'll be sure to post pics!
She is still in love with princess's but went on a huge Shrek kick this year. And she's definitely gotten used to mommy's camera as she's become quite the little poser. She shares her brother's love for shoes and has more pairs than me!
Anyways, that's my little girl in a nutshell. To know her is to love her. That kind sweet heart just shine through.
Happy 4th Birthday Miss Moo!! We love you!!

Daddy Mommy and Jaker
xoxo

Happy Father's Day!

This is my husband, the man that I chose to be the father of my children... and what a great choice that was because he is the best, most doting, most adoring father in the world. This day is all about Father's and how wonderful they are and while circumstances have prevented us from celebrating this day the way I would have liked, I just want you to know that we love you more than words can say.

You put us first, before everything. Your #1 priority in life is to make us happy and ensure that we are content. You are completely selfless when it comes to me and the kids and we notice it, we appreciate it, we love you for it, and hope you know we would do the same for you always.

Today, my love, I want you to know that you are the best father in the world and no amount of presents, hand made cards, or material objects will help us to explain how much we love you!

Love always,
Jill, Ashleigh and Jake
xoxo

Ok, Seriously....

Ted (at dinner time): Ash!! I totally forgot to get you a birthday present! Oh no! (he was just kidding of course)

Ashleigh: That's ok Daddy. You make me so happy. YOU are my birthday present!

Ok... she's not even four yet people. I tell you.... she is an ANGEL!

Some Shots with my New Camera

My Baby Cousin Graduating

And I can't even believe it. I am the oldest (girl) cousin and she is the youngest. I remember carrying her around on my hip... at some points I'm sure some thought she was permanently attached. I used to dress her up, and make up dances for her to perform. SO much fun.

And now here she is. Graduating from high school... just surreal! I'm so proud of her! She looked beautiful today. :)
Congratulations Katie!!

WARNING: This post may contain hilarity that only a mother would find funny!!!

The things that are coming out of Ashleigh's mouth lately are cracking me right up!!

As I said above, this post is not for everyone! LOL

She goes into the bathroom to go poop and on her way in says (as she does every single time) "you'll wipe me right mommy?!?!". So I'm on stand by and am always amazed at the pure speed with which this little girl can poop! I mean, the efficiency is amazing! LOL

So I get the call, go in to wipe her and say "Boy, you sure are a good pooper!"

She says " Yes mom! I bet there's a contest out there and I would out-poop EVERYONE!!"

OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! LOL

My Backyard!

I've been trying to get a bee in flight since I took up photography! I finally did it! WOOHOO!!
You'll get a better look by clicking on the photo to see it closer up.