Trinity's Spring Performance. . .

Today was Zach's school Spring Performance.  It was interesting to say the least. . . oh what a hoot!  The kids were all dressed up as animals and they sang cute little animal songs and a few older kids did some skits.  It was too cute!  Chase Parker, Grammy, Papa, Aaron, Uncle David, and Aunt Deke were in attendance with Paul and me.

I say it was interesting because there were a few kids who looked bored to tears and not participating to the best of their ability!  My child was one of them.  His lips moved once in awhile but there was no emotion behind the words, no animated hand movements, no expression period.  It was as if he were a zombie!  He even let out a few yawns here and there.  Oh my.  I guess that is what makes the memory though!!

We are proud of him even so. . .

Chase Parker Is Crawling!!

A new chapter in this mom's life is beginning. . . my baby boy is crawling!!  He started a few days ago and is going full steam ahead.  He's even pulling up on his knees.

Zachary has been very tolerant so far.  However, this picture is what I found one day when I walked into the living room to check on things.  Apparently Chase kept derailing his trains so his brother decided to problem solve.  He blocked him all in with toys!  I started to give Zachary grief but then I realized that this was pretty smart of him.  They will work it out on their own I hope!

here is a cute video of Chase Parker crawling. . .

Lots To Talk About . . .

Well you can tell I've been super busy lately. . . slacking in the blog department!  I don't like going this many days because I forget everything.  I guess that's what happens with old age and motherhood combined, huh.

Lots to share. . .

Another train adventure!  Last Wednesday Zachary woke up early and was excited to get his day started.  It was the day he was headed to Manchester, GA.  He kept telling me and his Daddy (over and over and over!) that 80 trains usually come through there in one day.  Originally I was scheduled to accompany Papa and Zach on this excursion but at the last minute I was dumped by my son and replaced by Grammy.  Oh well!  They left about 7:30AM and headed to Plains, GA. first.  Many of you may know this is the town that President Jimmy Carter calls home.  He teaches a Sunday School class at a local church there and has for many many years.  Interesting enough, my parents had the honor of attending his class several years ago.  My father loves recounting the story of how he made a comment in the class and the President was impressed.  They had the opportunity to talk with him a little and said he was very warm and down to earth.  I've always thought that was kind of neat.  Anyway, his campaign headquarters was a train depot there in Plains.  So, of course that was on Zach's list of places to see.

After Plains they headed to Manchester.  Zachary was excited to tell us that he saw THREE trains moving at once.  The boy just lives and breathes this stuff.  Mom was able to get several pictures so I will post some below.  It was rather chilly there so I am glad my father insisted that I dress him warmly.  :)

Overall they had a fabulous day and got home at a reasonable time too. . . around 8:45PM.  That was pretty good considering they traveled over 400 miles that day.

And on to other news. . .

Last week at this time I was in the middle of a fun photoshoot.  I have tentatively decided to start a little business (if I find time!).  Not sure on all the particulars yet but I did run an ad on craigslist for one day just to put some feelers out.  I had two families respond and I scheduled the photoshoot for one family last Friday.  Adam, Sarah, and sweet Abby were wonderful to meet and EASY to photograph.  Adam services in our military and was headed back to Korea in a few days so they wanted to get the shoot done quickly.  We headed to Oven Park and had a wonderful time.  Abby, who is 2  years old, did AMAZINGLY well.  I will include a couple of my favorite shots from that shoot.  Here is the link to my new photography website (don't know if it's final or not, but it's a work in progress) if you want to take a look and let me know what you think:

http://birdwellphotography.blogspot.com/

After doing that one photoshoot I realized that I just really don't have the time I would love to have right now to practice my passion.  But, at least I can do a little here and there and have fun!  When Chase gets old enough to send to preschool then I'm sure I will try to do a little more.

Let's see. . . what am I leaving out?  Well, we have had fun with our boys. . . Chase is learning to crawl and driving me nuts!  You know I'm a freakish mom and I just have to get used to the idea that he is going to crawl, he is going to fall, he is going to get into stuff that he shouldn't, he is going to get bumps and bruises, and I just need to deal with it!  But, I'm getting the sneaking suspicion that Chase will be MUCH more adventurous than Zach so I'm a little worried about how I will handle that.  Ah, see, I'm not getting over it am I!  :)

I was able to go to my nephew Aaron's Guitar Concert last week.  As always, he did a great job.  Even had a few solos!  He looked so cool and calm up there while some of the others were visibly shaking.  He definitely gets his musical talents from his Mom!  His girlfriend was there so I had fun harassing them afterwards.  I can't believe he is 16.  Amazing how time flies.

Last Saturday we enjoyed Cassidy Harrell's dance recital at Chiles High School.  She was SO GOOD!  I was anxious to be able to take pictures.  I was disappointed that we didn't get great seats in the auditorium but during her performances I snuck up to the front and found an empty seat right on the first row!  It was pitch black in the audience so it was hard to get awesome shots but I gave it a good try.  I'll post a couple down below.  We are so proud of Cassidy!

Zachary has started his refresher course this year for ISR swimming.  He did the 6 week course (EVERY day of the week you have a lesson!) so we are glad it's only 2 weeks this year.  He was a little scared the first day but quickly got over that and did great.  He is such a big boy now!  The first day I took him to the lesson I saw another woman there (she had sunglasses on) and one of her kids came up to me and asked me if my name was "Beth"?  I said yes and then her mom looked at me and said "I'm Niki Strickland!"  I couldn't believe it!!  She was my best friend when I was growing up and she left our school in 8th grade and I lost touch.  I have often wondered about her and tried to find her on Facebook, etc. but never was able to.  It was SO fun to reconnect.  We are planning on dinner so to catch up.

On Wednesday of this week, Paul enjoyed a fun morning with Zachary.  His class went to the Brogan Museum for the morning!  After touring the museum and having some fun classes (they made sidewalk chalk) they headed outside for a picnic lunch in the park.  Daddy had SO much fun with Zach!!  I packed them both a sack lunch and put little love notes in each one.  I think I got brownie points. . .   :)

Last night we took Zach to see Thomas the Tank Engine at the Civic Center.  It was AWESOME!  They did a great job and he was so happy to go.  At the end of the 1 hour 45 minute show he started pouting and didn't want it to be over.  He could have stayed there all night mesmorized by those trains.  I decided not to take my big camera to the event but of course as soon as it started I was kicking myself.  I ALWAYS WANT MY CAMERA!  So, I got one crappy picture with my iPhone.  :(

I think that pretty much covers it.  We are looking forward to a fun filled weekend.  Planning on taking the kids to Olly Wally's tomorrow with Cooper and Cassidy and then having lunch out with the Harrell's.  We are going to nail down all the plans for our beach trip with them next Friday!  I cannot WAIT to go to Destin.  It's been almost a year since we have been to our condo.  Last time I was extremely prego and not too comfortable.  This year will be Chase's first time at the condo and at the beach.  I am curious to see how he does.  Of course since I thought I was DONE after Zachary and sold everything we are going to have to set up a crib, etc. again for Chase.  That will be fun to do!  :(  But, we are hoping for wonderful weather for our Memorial Day weekend getaway.  Can't wait to see all the kids having fun together.

Well, better go!  Enjoy your Friday guys!!

Zach's train adventure to Manchester and Plains. . .

My new logo for my tentative sideline, just for fun, business?

my photoshoot with the Blogett family. . . 

Chase Parker learning to crawl!

Aaron's Guitar Concert. . . 

Cassidy's Dance Recital. . . 

Zach Swimming Again!

Thomas the Tank Engine at the Civic Center. . . (crappy picture, uugh!)

Arthur Alexander Birdwell. . . Romping In Heaven!

Arthur Alexander Birdwell

August 31, 2002 - May 11, 2011

As a Christian, I firmly believe that God takes care of His creations, and of course, that includes doggies.  Whether it be that they actually go to heaven or if He has another plan for them, I believe they are well cared for.

Today, sadly, Paul and I had to decide to put our basset hound Alex to sleep.  It was a sad decision but I believe one that was right for him.  We found out that he had skin cancer when he developed a cyst/sore that would not stop bleeding.  After a visit to the vet they determined that he wouldn't have very long.  I didn't want to him to get to the point where he was suffering so we decided to let him rest.  

My sweet husband was with him, holding him and talking to him, while I stayed home with Chase.  He was very loving to do this without me.  I have done it three times now in my lifetime and I just didn't feel like I could do it today.

Alex definitely enjoyed a great life.  He was with a family that loved him and took care of him. Some would say he was spoiled.  Definitely MORE spoiled before the kids arrived in our lives but still, every night he was "tucked in" by Mom or Dad to his air conditioned 8x10 shed that he enjoyed during these hot summer months.  He loved having the invisible fence where he could enjoy his entire property all day long.  And, recently, since his appetite had declined, he was enjoying roast, gravy, carrots, and potatoes on his dog food every morning.  He loved it!  

Ironically I had a "photoshoot" with Alex and Jessi a few days ago.  I'm glad I got some fun pictures of them when they were outside playing around.  Alex will be very missed by our family, including his best buddy Jessi, our pup left behind.  She is eleven years old now and I always thought she would go first but I guess things never go as you "plan".  I don't think Alex would have done well at all if she would have gone first.  I think overall she will handle it okay after a few days.  She has glaucoma in both eyes and is blind and almost deaf I think but she still has some good days ahead.  Right now she is a happy pup and I hope she can stay that way.

Not looking forward to explaining this to Zachary.  Thankfully when all this happened he was happily unaware and enjoying a train adventure with Grammy and Papa.  I'm hoping he won't take it hard.  He is very close with the kitties but not as close with the pups.

Alex was our typical, comical, happy basset hound.  He was wonderful to our family and children.  He was the only dog Paul and I ever brought home together.  

We love you and will all miss you very much Alex.  Have fun romping in heaven!

I'm glad he didn't suffer and he was a happy pup here!

She cleaned his ears every single day!  He was a kept man!!

Jessi Anne will miss him for sure. . . 

One of My Favorite Days of the Year. . .

Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful mothers in my life, but especially to my very own Mom.

I have had a wonderful day so far.  Chase Parker's Dedication was today at our church.  This was very special to our family.  Our church has baby dedications twice per year.  Once in November and then on Mother's Day.  Of course last November Chase was here with us and some people have asked me why he wasn't dedicated then.  Paul and I dedicated Zachary on Mother's Day when he was first born and I always thought that was a very special day to choose.  So, Paul and I wanted to have Chase's today for that very reason.  He was so good during the ceremony!  His Daddy held them the entire time and at one point he reached over and ran his fingers through my hair.  So sweet.  Aunt Deke took some pictures for us so as soon as I get the photos from her I will be sure to post them.

This morning, before church, Zachary and Paul spoiled me.  Zachary had a special handmade card for me that he was so proud of.  Of course I will keep it forever.  It was so cute!  I love the "To Mommy" on the front written by Zach and the train drawings inside are precious.  When Chase Parker woke up he of course gave me a big smile when Daddy told him to tell me Happy Mother's Day.  Then he proceeded to say "Da Da" all day long after that!  I know "Ma Ma" is the last to come.  I'm trying to be patient!

Last night we celebrated with my mom.  David, Deke and Aaron joined us in taking my parents out to dinner.  Now that I am a mother myself I truly do find my own mother so remarkable.  She is just a wonderful example for me.  I don't know how she did it with THREE children and in an era where the men just didn't help much with taking care of the babies.  She is just superwoman to me.  She shows her love for me now by helping ME with motherhood.  It's amazing how she knows what I need even before I ask her sometimes and rushes to my aid.  Whenever I get frustrated with this motherhood job or down in the dumps or tired she always has a positive encouraging word for me.  Mom, I love you so much.  Thank you for loving me and STILL taking good care of me.

After church Paul and Zachary headed out to lunch with his mom.  Zachary was happy to see Grandma and Granddaddy but Chase Parker was worn slam out.  He and I stayed at home while he snoozed for 2 and a half hours.  It was nice to have a little time to myself too.  ;)

Oh, before I forget, I had an awesome time at Zach's school on Friday for the Mother's Day luncheon.  The kids were so cute singing their three sweet songs and then joining all us mom's for a yummy delish lunch.  Thank you TUMC.  You guys are awesome!

Without all three of my sweet boys I could not proudly wear this wonderful title of Mom.

My special treat bag and homemade card from Zachary. . . 

my canvas artwork from my favorite artist Zach. . . presented to me at the Mother's Day luncheon at his school on Friday. . . 

I Can't Believe He Said That!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My sweet neighbor has often told me that I need to publish a book of all the "sayings" that have come out of my son's lips.  Today I am seriously considering it.  This just beats all in my book.

A couple of weeks ago I found what no mother, especially an OCD mom like me, wants to find. . . bugars stuck to the race car bed.  I about DIED.  I found this when Zach was not home but you can be sure we had a lengthly discussion (once I gained my composure) when  he returned.  After that discussion nothing else was said.  I made myself very clear.

Last night as we were brushing teeth I guess he felt the need to clear his conscience about something he had done during nap time earlier.  He tells me this, "Mom, I just want to let you know that I put one, JUST ONE, bugar under my pillow and then I thought about it and put it back in my nose.  So, everything's good mom!"

After he told me this he told me that he needed to blow his nose.

What a life I live!

A Chugger Action Adventure. . . and More!!

Last Friday I ventured out early in the morning on my first train adventure with my father and Zachary.  My son was so excited that I actually agreed to come along.  Usually Grammy and Papa take him and I stay home with Chase.  This time Grammy stayed behind to have a fun day with Chase Parker.

We left early and went to Waycross, Rice Yard, Blackshear, Folkston, and Homerville.  I think I am remembering all the towns we stopped in.  We saw trains galore and had a fabulous time.  I even had fun at the McDonalds in Blackshear that is set up with a railroad theme inside.  We found an awesome new museum along the way that was pretty cool too.  It had a mummified dog that was quite unique.  It was a long 374 mile trip but I had a a fun time seeing my little man get so excited and have so much fun with his Papa.  That boy just LOVES trains!

Saturday morning I got up early and headed out to Kleman Plaza.  I actually had a photoshoot with adults and not my two children!  I don't typically do this but I was asked to and really wanted to try it out.  I was pretty happy with the results although I realize I have a lot to learn.  It was a fun experience though.  Maybe I can do this more when I have some time.  I'm sure you've realized by now that photography is a passion of mine.

Sunday we had fun at the park.  I enjoy those moments that we all can spend together as a family.  Chase and Zachary had fun playing together and then Daddy and Zach played frisbee, ball, and water balloons.  It was beautiful breezy weather too.

Here are a few pictures of these happenings. . .

My first train adventure. . . 

Fun at the park. . . 

A few of my favorite shots of Michele and Ary at Kleman Plaza. . .