The Knight Family

Transition

2012-02-10T14:52:00.000-08:00

We have officially and successfully transitioned Leyton into his 'big boy bed.' Yes, I realize that we waited until he was 3, but truth be told I would have kept him in his crib until first grade if socially acceptable. He loved his crib slept in it so well. He never once tried to climb out. So naturally I was worried about how this would go. However once we got it and Jeremy started staining it he was very excited about it. I let him pick out his "Thomas" sheets which he was also thrilled about. Then when it was time he helped us take down his crib and move it to "baby's" room. The first night he went down without a peep (probably from his lack of nap) and has slept like a champion in it ever since. It was really more of a non-event than I thought it would be. He tells me every morning that he loves his big boy bed. Between being potty trained and no longer sleeping in a crib, I feel like there is no more 'baby' left in him which makes me so proud of him, but a little sad for me. Here is the sweet boy in his bed:

Tickled PINK

2012-02-03T07:42:00.000-08:00

We found out Wednesday that we are indeed having a girl! I was so surprised, but pleasantly so. Leyton tried to argue with the ultrasound tech that it was NOT a girl, but he has warmed up to the idea now and doesn't seem to be in denial. She appeared to be as healthy as can be and is measuring on track. At one point she was curled up with her little hands under her cheek. Precious. I am currently trying to restrain myself from buying things. It could easily get out of control.

We had tossed around the idea of having a gender reveal party, but I knew as soon as I planned one that the baby would keep its legs crossed the whole time. Plus I don't know if I could keep a secret that long. We did do something a little fun for our mom's though. We wrapped a box with pink cupcakes and let them open it for a surprise. And caught their reactions on camera. Leyton remained close by to recover the treat.

Here is a sneak peak at the little bambina:

19.5 week belly pic/update

2012-01-27T16:20:00.000-08:00

Well we are almost halfway there! We go in for our ultrasound on Wednesday to find out if we are having a he or she. My gut says boy. Leyton says boy. Jeremy hasn't a clue. We shall see. I know 7 people that are due around my time that are ALL having boys and it seems like these things happen in waves. So if we buck the trend I will be surprised. I am so excited to see our little one! All I want is a healthy baby. If the kicks and rolls I have been feeling are any indication we should be in good shape. Jeremy has even been able to feel a couple kicks which has surprised me this early.

Just Because...

2012-01-17T20:55:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it is just impossible to say no to this face...

Guess who is in big boy undies!

2012-01-15T15:19:00.000-08:00

He will hate me one day for posting these, but I think he looks so cute and grown-up in them

We have hit a huge milestone in the Knight house! We had tried the whole potty thing when L was about 2.5, and it just wasn't the right time. He would go sporadically but just lost interest in it. Well, about 2 weeks ago he told me he needed to potty and wanted to wear his "big boy underwear" and we haven't looked back! He had two little accidents the first day, but none since. He even does well at school and while we are out in public. I'm so impressed. Of course he still wears a diaper at sleep time, so I guess this makes him "day trained." I'm sure he will have an accident here and there, but so far so good. Little man has always been set in his ways so he will still fuss for a pull up every now and then, but he quickly gets over it. Whoohoo! We can enjoy being diaper free for about 5 more months and then we will start all over again with the new little one.

Crafty Christmas

2011-12-27T12:33:00.000-08:00

I sure didn't think I was going to have time to do anything 'homeade' this year for Christmas, but I had time to sneak in a few things. Some things I had to take pictures of for future reference in case I wanted to do them again. Here are some of them:

Cinnamon Honey Butter. Recipe here. I quadrupled the recipe to make enough for 12 8oz. jars. It also killed my old faithful hand mixer I got as a wedding gift.

Saints painting thingy for my brother and sister-in-law who are avid fans and have a Saints themed room.

Some of my bible verse inspired art prints I made into greeting cards. I did 2 prints of 6 designs for a pack of 12 cards.

A cross for my MIL. She has been bugging me for one since she saw one I did years ago. Due to time constraints I had to make hers smaller, but she was still pleased.

I did these last two for my nieces who are getting their rooms redone for Christmas. I made them to match their new colors/patterns.

(note: I wish I could take credit for painting the design of the board on this one, but I didn't, just the letters)

Bump-14 weeks

2011-12-22T06:03:00.000-08:00

For record keeping sake...

2011-12-16T12:40:00.000-08:00

We went this morning for Leyton's 3 year check-up. He got 2 thumbs up and we loved his new pediatrician! Here are the stats:

31 lbs (45%)

38.75 inches (70%)

Happy 3rd Birthday, Leyton!

2011-12-12T06:08:00.000-08:00

Leyton,

For about a week now you have been saying " Next week, I'm gonna be free years old, I'm gonna be free years old!"

It is next week, and you are three years old.

I know no better way to describe you than an absolute mess. A smart, ferocious, precious, sweet, wild, bull-headed, defiant three year old. You are amazing. You have changed so much in a year and constantly wow me with everything you know.

About 6 months ago, we moved away from everything you knew as home. I was so worried as to how you would adapt, but I should have known better. You are absolutely thriving. You love being close to your grandparents and family (and getting spoiled rotten). You love "school." You practically run away from me every morning when we get there because you cannot get to your classroom fast enough. All the teachers tell me how smart and talkative you are. And when we pick you up you run as fast as you can to the church offices to say hey to everyone on staff. You are such a people person. No matter where we are whenever someone walks through the door you run to greet them and give hugs- whether you know them or not.

Right now, you love everything that has to do with choo-choo trains, especially Thomas the Train. You also love tractors, Lightning McQueen, 'Mater and anything else with a motor. You love to have dance parties with us in the living room, especially break dancing. You love to run in circles around the house saying 'get me!' while me or daddy chases you. You love to be tickled mercilessly. You love to play outside with your baseball tee and love going to the playground and the zoo. You love entertaining people. You are a very routined child in so many ways. You have to have things a certain way and no other way will do. You are so stubborn and defiant. Sometimes (most of the time), you do things just for the mere fact of challenging me and daddy. You get madder than a hornet and are capable throw a fit like none I have ever witnessed. When you get really mad, your shoes come flying off and even sometimes your clothes. Lately in the midst of your fits you will yell "Let me be happy!" This is both pitiful and hilarious at the same time.

You have begun doing so many 'big boy' things this past year and are getting so independent - telling us that you can do it "all by myself." You started using the potty, drinking from big boy cups, you moved from the high chair to a booster to now you insist on no booster. You also love to help me with chores, like the laundry or unloading the dishwasher. It is so cute to see you walking down the hall with a stack of towels to put away. It is bittersweet to see you grow up so quickly.

Every night before we go to bed, daddy and I come in your room to check on you and watch you sleep for a moment. It is so sweet to see my wild child be so still and peaceful. My favorite times of day with you are first thing in the morning and right before bedtime. It is the only times that you will curl up next to me and snuggle with your head on my shoulder and just be still. I hope you never outgrow that, but I know one day soon (too soon) you will.

Leyton, soon you are going to be a big brother. Can you believe it? Right now, you are 100% convinced that it will be a little brother. You refuse to even entertain the idea that it could possibly be a sister. When daddy asked you if you would be upset if it was a sister you said "No, I'm not gonna be sad because it's not a girl, it's a boy!" And you want to name the baby "Scooter Poo Poo." I'm so glad we have that settled. I cannot wait to see you in your new role. You will be an amazing brother. You will be able to teach our new little one so many things, and I know he or she will worship the ground you walk on.

Daddy and I are so proud of the little boy you are becoming. We love watching you grow and learn new things. There are so many things about you right now that I want to remember forever. I have always heard the phrase about feeling your heart swell and I never understood it until you. I sometimes can literally feel my heart swell with joy. I pray every night that God will help us guide you in the right direction. Speaking of prayer, sometimes during dinner you politely remind us that we need to pray. And when you pray, you keep it simple and pray for the choo choo trains and choo choo tracks.

I love you so much, sweet boy, I am so proud to call you mine. Happy, Happy Birthday!

"Today you are you! That is truer than true!
There is no one alive...who is you-er than you!
I am what I am! That’s a great thing to be!
If I say so myself,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!”

~Dr. Suess

Birthday Letter Year Two

Birthday Letter Year One

20 Questions for 3 years

2011-12-10T08:07:00.000-08:00

picture by Hannah Swain

I ran across this neat idea that I had to do and hope to keep up with. You take the same set of twenty questions (starting with age 3) and ask them near or on their birthday every year to see how their answers change (or stay) from year to year. Here is Leyton's 3 year questions and answers. There is a definite choo choo train undertone.

1. What is your favorite color? blue
2. What is your favorite toy? Thomas track
3. What is your favorite fruit? watermelon
4. What is your favorite tv show? Nemo
5. What is your favorite thing to eat for lunch? Mac n Cheese
6. What is your favorite outfit? my Halloween Dinosaur
7. What is your favorite game? Ping Pong
8. What is your favorite snack? Teddy Grahms
9. What is your favorite animal? Cow
10. What is your favorite song? The Thomas one
11. What is your favorite book? The Train one
12. Who is your best friend? um, Charlie (his friend from school)
13. What is your favorite cereal? Chocolate kind
14. What is your favorite thing to do outside? play
15. What is your favorite drink? Water
16. What is your favorite holiday? Christmas
17. What do you like to take to bed with you at night? my pillows and my buddies (his buddies being his stuffed animals)
18. What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast? Waffle
19. What do you want for dinner on your birthday? A cupcake
20. What do you want to be when you grow up? Just a choo choo train

Christmas Pinterest Projects

2011-12-08T14:28:00.000-08:00

So my latest addiction (along with everyone else) is Pinterest. If you aren't on board, you should be. Or not. It really is addicting. I have made quite a few recipes from there, but these are the first two craft projects I have done. The first is this Christmas tree with rolled scrapbook paper. It was really easy, came out really cute and I was able to add my own touches to it.

The second was Cinnamon Applesauce ornaments. I think I remember doing some of these when I was little. Leyton just loved helping me with them. He has been so excited over everything to do with Christmas this year. I love that he loves to be my little helper. These were pretty easy and they smell SO good. My whole kitchen smelled like Christmas. I decided to leave some of them plain because I do like them in their 'natural state,' but I just had to add some pizzaz to the rest. After all everything is better with a little glitter. Since I don't need all of these ornaments, I'm giving most of them away in the party favor bags at Leyton's birthday party.

12 Week Belly Pic

2011-12-05T15:10:00.000-08:00

Ok, here is the first belly pic thus far. I figured since I was dressed up for an engagement party it was as good a time as any...

Decking the Halls...

2011-12-02T10:02:00.000-08:00

Updates and Such

2011-12-01T13:50:00.000-08:00

Ok, Does anyone even still read this ol' blog? I doubt it, but thats ok. I will continue to use it to journal life's happenings- even though I've done a poor job these past few months. As you can see from the post below- we are expecting #2! I am due June 18th and we are very excited. Leyton is positive it is a boy that he will name "Scooter." We'll see.

This pregnancy has been slightly rougher than my first. I've had more dizziness, nausea, food aversions, and have had much worse exhaustion. Don't even get me started on the condition of my skin and hair. I am anything but glowing. My mom said "well you are older." Love it. Luckily, as I am nearing the 2nd trimester, things are getting better. I have yet to even take a "bump" picture. Isn't that awful? Oh and let me just say, it is true that you start showing sooner with #2. I'm already sporting a little bump. I had a checkup this morning and got to hear the sweet little heartbeat pumping away! It's still hard to believe.

Anyway, I will try to get better about updating this thing. Seems I skipped right over Halloween and Thanksgiving. In that case, here are a few pictures of our little dino from Halloween:

Knight, party of 4?

2011-12-01T08:26:00.000-08:00

Catching up: The Great Mississippi River Balloon Race

2011-11-01T18:11:00.000-07:00

I have been slacking lately on the old blog. I thought I would update with some pictures I took a few weeks ago from the Balloon Races in Natchez. Hopefully the next update won't take me as long to get around to!

Mitchell Farms

2011-10-11T06:27:00.000-07:00

I found my new favorite place. About 30 minutes away is a place called Mitchell Farms in Collins. My mom had told me about it a couple of months ago and I'm glad she did! It is this huge farm in the middle of nowhere with cotton fields, sunflower fields, a peanut farm, a pumpkin patch, a corn maze (which we got lost in) and vegetable gardens galore. They also have tractors, covered trailer rides, log cabins, a choo choo train for the little ones as well as animals and anything else in between. We went with our good friends, the Ellards, and Leyton and Jackson had an absolute ball. We couldn't have asked for better Fall weather, either!

Zoo & Live@Five

2011-10-09T10:05:00.000-07:00

Friday, we went to the zoo with Gigi and Sadeybug. Then later Jeremy, Leyton and I went to downtown Hattiesburg for a free concert they host every Friday in October. It was such a fun, busy day complete with perfect weather. Here are a few pics...

A Barnyard Birthday

2011-09-23T11:04:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, we celebrated Leyton's friend, Jackson, and his 2nd birthday. His momma, Beth, did such a cute job theming the party. They even had little miniature goats and a hayride. Leyton had such a great time and is still talking about it. Here are a few pics.

this little girl was just precious

The birthday boy

Fall Wreath

2011-09-12T13:12:00.000-07:00

Every now and then, I get in the mood to do something crafty. I have been wanting to try a yarn wreath ever since I saw some last year. I think they are so cute and I am really digging this Fallish weather we have been having. That, and I will use any excuse to go to Hobby Lobby. I have to say I think it turned out pretty cute, and I want to make another one. I followed the tutorial from here.

Leyton's first day of preschool

2011-09-06T19:08:00.000-07:00

Little man had a great first day at his new preschool. We went and met his teacher last week and he has been talking about going back to see her ever since. Everyone who has gone through the preschool has raved about her and during the "meet the teacher" she had 4 and 5 year olds coming in to hug her so I took it as a really good sign. He didn't look back when we dropped him off and was all grins when we picked him up. Here are some pics of him looking all sharp for the ladies. There are 8 boys and 3 girls in his class so he has to really work it.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-24T09:45:00.000-07:00

Dulce de Leche Cupcakes

2011-08-18T12:08:00.000-07:00

It's birthday week at our house for Jeremy and we all know that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach, or in my case, his sweet tooth. I saw this recipe on Joy the Baker's blog and I knew I had to try it. I have to say that they turned out quite well. Although I think I did something wrong when making the cupcake batter. Mine turned out a little dry. I halved the recipe because I in no way needed 24 of these things in my house, so I'm pretty sure I did something wrong when doing my math. Go figure. They were still a big hit. The frosting is ah-mazing.

Here is the recipe from Joy.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 1/2 cup buttermilk
For the Frosting:
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup dulce de leche, plus more for drizzling
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 to 3 cups powdered sugar

Instructions
• Place racks in the center and upper third of the oven and preheat to 350 degrees F. Line two cupcake pans with paper or foil liners. Set aside.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside.
• In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, add butter and sugars. Beat on medium speed until fluffy and pale brown, about 3 minutes. Stop the mixer, scrape down the sides of the bowl and add one egg. Beat on medium for one minute. Add the remaining eggs, one at a time, beating for one minute between each addition. Stop the bowl and scrape down the sides as necessary. Beat in vanilla extract.
• Add half of the flour mixture to the egg and butter mixture. Beat on low speed and slowly drizzle in the buttermilk. Beat until just incorporated. Stop the mixer, scrape down the bowl and add the rest of the dry ingredients. Beat on low speed until just incorporated. Remove the bowl from the stand mixer and finish incorporating with a spatula. Try not to over mix the mixture.
• Divide the batter between the prepared cupcake pans, filling each liner about two thirds full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a cake tester inserted in the center of one of the cakes comes out clean. Let rest in the cupcake pans before removing to a wire rack to cool completely. Cupcakes should be completely cooled before frosting.

To make the frosting:
Place cream cheese in the bowl of an electric stand mixer. Beat on medium speed for about 30 seconds, until very soft and pliable. Stop the mixer, scrape down the sides of the bowl and add the butter and dulce de leche. Beat on medium speed until well incorporated. Stop the mixer and add the salt and powdered sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 3 minutes, until fluffy and lighter in color. Generously spoon frosting on top of cupcakes, or use a large frosting tip to pipe on frosting.

Fishing

2011-08-16T12:33:00.000-07:00

We spent the weekend in the country at Poppa and Nonna's house. Leyton kept asking if we could go fishing. Now I know he had no idea what "fishing" entailed, but we decided to give it a whirl. They were only a few casts in before they got a bite. Leyton was pleased as punch when he was reeling it in, but he was terrified when he saw it. He thought it was a shark. Bless his heart. He stared at it for 5 seconds then just started bawling. I think we have watched too much Nemo. Anyhow, he gave it another go and caught one more fish before he decided he was done. Now he won't stop asking to go back.

Poppa showing him that fish are "nice"

A rare sighting...

2011-08-04T17:32:00.000-07:00

Potty News

2011-08-01T10:04:00.001-07:00

Leyton made tee-tee's in the potty (twice today so far)!!!! You would have thought he had found the cure to cancer by the way we were hollering and dancing around. Oh well. I am proud. His treat was a mini Almond Joy- it was the only treat-like thing I could find. He didn't complain. Yay, little man!

Edit- he ended up going five times today!!

Cousins

2011-07-30T18:33:00.000-07:00

Blackout

2011-07-19T13:04:00.000-07:00

We are in the thick of summer storm season here and last week, we lost electricity for about an hour. We were spoiled in Florida with underground utilities so in the 4+ years we were there, we maybe lost power for a total of 3 minutes. So needless to say, this was Leyton's first power outage. He was a little confused at first as to why we couldn't finish "Beggie Tales," but he quickly became enamored with the flashlight. Luckily I had the camera nearby and got some neat shots.

The Help

2011-07-15T20:34:00.000-07:00

Last week I finished reading the best book that I have read in a very long time. The Help, by Mississippi native Kathryn Stockett, was recommended to me by two fellow church members who had recently read it. I didn't realize until I finished it how much national attention the book is getting. There is also a movie coming out in August, although I don't know how the movie will ever do it justice. There is so much depth into the unspoken details of the book.

The book is set in Mississippi in the 60's and follows the stories of two maids (the help) and one brave young white woman in her early 20's. After feeling uneasy about how the maids are treated, such as raising the white children but not even being allowed to use the restroom in the house, Skeeter sets out to write a book uncovering the secrets of the white families from the perspective of 'the help'.

This book pushes so many buttons and really reveals the racial hell we have come through and in some ways are still dealing with. It makes me so angry to see the way people were treated simply because of their skin color. But, I was glad to see her write in some stories of the unconditional love that was shared between some of the families and their maids. It also made me remember growing up with our maid, "Dang-Dang" as we called her. Her real name was Mary Jane, but my brother called her Dang-Dang and it just stuck. Now don't get me wrong, we were not by any means like most of the snooty-fa-looty families Stockett writes about. Dang-Dang was like a family member and she and my mother became dear friends, but she didn't by any means raise my brother and I like the the stories in the book. However, the older I got the more uneasy I felt about having a "maid." I used to be so embarassed to bring friends home while she was working. I don't really know why, but I just felt weird about it. I have not kept in touch with her and/or what she is doing today (I last saw her 5 years ago at my wedding), but this book really made me think about her and how I should let her know how much she was loved and appreciated.

This book has made me somewhat ashamed to be a white woman in the South, but at the same time I will always have pride in my roots and it is my responsibility to move forward and teach my children to see everyone equally. Stockett says it best in her acknowledgments: "Once at a roof party [In New York] from a rich white Metro North-train type town asked me where I was from and I told him Mississippi. He sneered and said 'I'm Sorry.' I nailed down his foot with the stiletto portion of my shoe and spent the next ten minutes quietly educating him on the where-from-abouts of William Faulkner, Eudora Welty, Tennessee Williams, Elvis Presley, B.B. King, Oprah Winfrey, Jim Henson, Faith Hill, James Earl Jones and Craig Claiborne, the food edotor and critic for the New York Times. I informed him that Mississippi hosted the first lung transplant and the first heart transplant and that the basis of the United States legal system was developed at the University of Mississippi. Mississippi is like my mother. I am allowed to complain about her all I want, but God help the person who raises an ill word about her around me, unless she is their mother too."

Bottom line, if you want to read a graceful, compelling novel that will give you alot to digest then look no further than The Help. I hope it touches you as it has me.

Cousins

2011-07-13T11:28:00.000-07:00

One of the many reasons we are blessed to be back in Mississippi is that Leyton and his cousin Baylee get to grow up together. You wouldn't know by looking at them, but they are only a few months apart. And they are a riot together. She was over a few afternoons last week and I got a few pictures of them together and a few of her and her amazing blue eyes.

Fourth Fun

2011-07-09T15:17:00.000-07:00

I know I'm a little behind, but here are some pictures from the 4th. We had Andrew, Beth and Jackson over for some food, fun and sparklers. That afternoon a hailstorm blew through the area, we were lucky to not have lost electricity. After dinner, we took the kids out for sparklers. You can see how thick the humidity is in these pictures.

Strawberry Lemonade

2011-07-05T07:44:00.000-07:00

I have been craving a good summery drink to try and beat this South MS heat. I found this recipe on Epicurious and it turned out really great so I thought I would share. To get the most juice out of your lemons, they need to be at room temp.

1 1/2 cups of strawberries trimmed and halved
1 1/2 cups fresh lemon juice (about 5 lemons)
1 cup sugar
3 1/2 - 4 cups cold water

Puree strawberries with 2 TB of lemon juice until smooth and force through a strainer or fine sieve to remove the seeds. Stir together the puree with the lemon juice, water and sugar in a pitcher until the sugar dissolves. Add more sugar if needed. Serve over ice.

Gran + Leyton

2011-07-01T08:52:00.000-07:00

These two are kindred spirits. I believe Leyton inherited a little bit of the Teedabooty gene from my mom (unless you are on the Bennett side of the family, I'm afraid it would take too long to explain). He can be such a ham at times that it is hard for me to believe he is my child. Don't get me wrong, he can be shy sometimes, but when he warms up you better watchyoself.

An afternoon with the Knights

2011-06-29T19:41:00.000-07:00

Leyton just cracking himself up with "E-pop"

Building towers with Rachel and Renee (aka "Nay")

Doing the "airplane" with Rachel and Rebekah

Waterpark fun

2011-06-24T13:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we headed to the new(ish) waterpark in Collins about 30 minutes away. We had a grand time even though Leyton was utterly devastated that he was not allowed to go down the "big boy" water slides. He quickly settled for the smaller slides, an ice cream cone and watching the "big boys" come down the big slide.

New Places to Play

2011-06-12T20:02:00.000-07:00

Trying out the playground down the road...

The new splash park @ the zoo

and of course, the choo choo train

Getting Settled In...

2011-06-10T18:40:00.000-07:00

We finally got our things moved in on Monday and thanks to some help from friends and especially my mom, we have things in working order. Leyton is adjusting very well to things here seems to enjoy his new digs.

going to check the mail

checking out the back yard

Memorial Day 2011

2011-06-03T07:18:00.000-07:00

Our Memorial Day was spent mostly outside and in the water. In the morning, we went over to some friends of Jeremy's family and in the afternoon, we headed over to spend time with our friends Andrew, Beth and their little boy, Jackson. He and Leyton were fast friends and I have a feeling they will be spending alot of time together.

In the Meantime...

2011-05-31T18:23:00.006-07:00

While we are still waiting on our 'stuff' to be delivered to our new house, we have been spending time with family. We are lucky to have family where we are moving, because it will still be almost a week before the moving company brings our goods. Yep. Don't use Ace Relocation.

Anyhow, the trip down was a breeze thanks to my mom who flew to Orlando the night before to help me out with Leyton. He was a peach for the 10 hour trip and doesn't seem to have minded being shuffled around with family. The pictures below were taken at his cousin Baylee's house and playing at his Gigi and PawPaw's house.

Farewell, Florida

2011-05-25T09:42:00.000-07:00

Our time in Florida has officially come to an end.

We are excited about what the future holds, but we will always look back on our time here with joy and wonderful memories. We were young, dumb and had only been married a few months when we came down here and we leave with 5 wonderful years of marriage and an inexhaustible 2.5 year old. Sure, I will miss the beaches, the gorgeous landscaping, Disney, lazy pool days, beautiful weather, but we will miss the people most of all.

Nothing could have prepared me for the relationships we made and the wonderful people we have been surrounded by for the past 4.5 years. We have been so blessed.

Goodbye, for now Florida!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-18T04:36:00.000-07:00

Out of the mouths of babes

2011-05-15T07:52:00.000-07:00

Just because every post if better with pictures

I realize every parent thinks that every (maybe not every) phrase that comes out of their child's mouth is the most adorable thing ever. I am no exception. Leyton comes out with things that make me just stop and laugh. I keep reminding myself to jot them down, so I don't forget. Here are a few things from recent memory:

"Mommy I want a snack"

" No, you just ate breakfast. You will have to wait awhile for a snack."

"Mommy, do you want a piece of me?"

After leaving the grocery store.

"Thank you for being a good boy."

"Thank you for being a good mommy"

While I was singing to him one night he came and put his sweet little hand over my mouth and said "Don't sing mommy. You scare me when you do dat."

One day he was jumping on the bed and I asked him if he was finally pooped out and he said "I not pooped out, I peepeed out!"

We were sitting at a stoplight one morning and when it turned green, I guess I pushed the gas too hard, because he announced from his carseat "Oh no! Hold on tight evybody!"

I was talking to Jeremy one evening asking him something and he said "Oh crap, I forgot to do that." Leyton looked up from where he was playing and said very sternly "Don't say cwap, daddy." Now how he knew that, I'll never know.

A break from packing

2011-05-11T13:39:00.000-07:00

CDC Carnival

2011-05-07T09:37:00.000-07:00

Leyton's preschool puts on an annual carnival fundraiser. There are pony rides, bounce houses, face painting, the whole nine yards. At the beginning, though, the kids get to "perform" songs they have learned for the parents. Leyton, obviously, was having none of it. You can see from the first picture below just how impressed he was with the whole ordeal.

In fact, Jeremy had to sit with him (luckily, he was one of many parents) to get him to cooperate. Their show was quite hysterical and very cute. Most kids were either crying, staring out into space or just plain confused, while the go getters of the bunch carried the weight and sang the songs.

Afterward came the good stuff. Leyton rode the pony and bounced in the bounce house for what seemed like forever. There was no getting him out of that thing. Eventually he came out sweaty and flushed for some water. He slept very well that night.

cutie, Madison

New Smyrna Beach trip

2011-05-02T10:02:00.000-07:00

Last Monday, since we were off work, we went to the beach with the Hunnicutt's. It was a beautiful day and we had a great time. Leyton & Maddie had a blast dodging the large waves. Here are a few pictures from the day:

Attempt at Easter pics

2011-04-28T04:59:00.000-07:00

Well, I tried. Kiddo was not having much to do with it.

The Great Easter Egg Hunt

2011-04-23T16:17:00.001-07:00

While we were gone...

2011-04-20T12:18:00.000-07:00

As mentioned before, Leyton's Gigi (also known by Leyton as Gigi New Knees as he calls her b/c of her knee replacement surgery), PawPaw and their dog Daphne came to keep him while we were cruisin'. I dare say that Leyton had a bigger time than we did. He went to SeaWorld, had his very first trip to McDonald's where he had his very first happy meal with his very first Coke, which I hear he sucked down without coming up for air. He went shopping and got a new movie, new toys, new clothes and new shoes and had powdered donuts for breakfast. Who could blame him for not missing us too much?

It made me so happy though, to know he was pleased as punch while we were gone. It made us relax and enjoy the trip so much more. It also makes me even more excited about moving back home so he can have just as much fun with his grandparents as I had with mine. I think my grandparents got more joy out of spoiling my brother and I as we got out of letting them.

Thank you Gigi New Knees!

Bahama Mama

2011-04-18T08:21:00.000-07:00

We are back from our wonderful 5 year anniversary cruise to the Bahamas. It was so much fun, so relaxing, and so nice to have time to spend with just the 2 of us. I am so grateful to my fabulous in-laws who not only gave us the trip as a Christmas/anniversary gift, but also made the trip to Orlando to keep Leyton while we were gone. This was our first time to both be away from him overnight, so I was nervous, but we all did great and it didn't sound like he missed us very much.

I realized after looking at my pictures, that I didn't take many while we were on the ship. I guess I just didn't carry my camera around much. Our port was in Nassau, where we took a ferry boat to Paradise Island. It was GORGEOUS. I have never in my life seen water so ridiculously blue and clear. The pictures don't even do it justice. We decided against doing excursions through the ship, so we took off with our little map and explored the island and after walking about what seemed like 4 miles, finally found a public entrance to the beach. We must have been lucky to find a stretch of beach that was very quiet. I could have stayed there for hours. It was love.

An Alabama Wedding

2011-04-13T13:00:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, I went up to the Gulf Coast for the wedding of my old college roommate and sorority sister, Kimmie. I stayed Friday night in Gulfport with the Skaggs family, so how could it not be a good weekend already? Thanks again, Heather! The wedding was beautiful and perfect, as was the bride. Of course, I got a little snap happy, but I mean, just look at her. You would have been snap happy too. (I told you would make the blog, Kimmie)! I also got a chance to hang out with Anzie, which was wonderful and entertaining as always- I can't wait to spend more time with her when we move back to the 'Burg.

me & Anzie

Amanda, Anzie & I

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-06T12:40:00.001-07:00

Car Wash Interlude

2011-03-30T16:24:00.000-07:00

Wake up, Daddy!

2011-03-25T05:44:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-23T04:24:00.000-07:00

Animal Kingdom

2011-03-19T11:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we visited my favorite Disney Park. Animal Kingdom is by far the most beautiful and detailed of them all. First we did the safari ride, which if you ever go to Animal Kingdom, you should do that first. We got to see most all the animals up close and personal since they had just been released. All in all, it was a great, beautiful, fun day and I took too many pictures. Here are a few:

Waiting to ride the safari truck

Ch-ch- changes...

2011-03-17T18:31:00.000-07:00

We are moving back to the great state of Mississippi!

Jeremy was contacted by Main Street UMC in Hattiesburg back in December about taking on the position of Pastor of Youth and Families. After a few months of prayer and conversations, we made a decision last week to take the plunge.

They say bittersweet chocolate is the best kind. I know that to be true because while we are so very happy to be back closer to family, to see Leyton grow up in front of his grandparents, with his cousins– we are so sad to be leaving the 'family' that we have here. We have been blessed beyond words to have been in a place the past 4+ years surrounded by people who are making it so hard to leave. I don't regret a single moment of moving down here. We had only been married for 4 months when we left everything we knew and made the move down here. We built a life here, pretty much started our marriage here, and began our family here.

Nothing could have prepared me for abundant blessing we have received from the relationships we have built here. I know God places people in your life for every season of life, every challenge, and I will never be able to express the gratitude I have to the people who helped shape me as a person, a follower, a wife and a mother.

We will be moving in late May, and while it is always hard to say goodbye, we are excited about what is in store for us. We can't wait to get back in familiar territory and watch Leyton grow up in the wide open space of the deep south. It has been so hard only seeing our families a handful of times a year and we will never take for granted again. I can't wait to start building new relationships and picking up some old ones. Please keep us in your prayers as we move forward in this process!

"Home is where you hang your childhood, and

Mississippi to me is the beauty spot of creation, a
dark, wide spacious land that you can breathe in"
- Tennessee Williams

School Pics

2011-03-16T07:22:00.000-07:00

I was not expecting much when going to view Leyton's school pictures this morning. Usually, I find these posed pictures with the marbled paper background kind of cheesy, but when I saw these I had to buy some. Right? Being the cheap-o that I am, I bought the wallet size prints and decided that I would scan them to enlarge it. I probably shouldn't admit that on the interwebs, huh? Yeah, probably not. But look at this darlingness:

Just some snapshots from the week...

2011-03-11T07:52:00.000-08:00

One day

2011-03-03T04:38:00.000-08:00

My sweet boy, one day you will be too big, too cool to play cars and trains with me. One day you will not want to be seen hugging me or kissing me goodbye as you go to school.

One day, you will stop asking me every five seconds "what's this?"
"what's that?" "whatchu doooin?" "Come on, let's run mommy"

One day, you will have friends of your own, that will be much cooler

than me, much faster than me.

So forget the dirty dishes, the unfolded clothes, and the disastrous living room.

Because I know my days as your number one sidekick are numbered.

Let's sit here and play. Because you will be a big kid someday...soon.

Spring has Sprung!

2011-03-01T15:24:00.000-08:00

The weather here lately has been downright perfect. So therefore, we have been spending most of our time outdoors. Here are a few pics from this weekend...

Magic Kingdom with Leyton

2011-02-21T14:35:00.000-08:00

Today we took Leyton to his first Disney park, Magic Kingdom. Yes, it is only 5 minutes away from us, but we wanted to wait until he was somewhat old enough to enjoy it. And he did. I don't think he even blinked. He was wide-eyed and curious. I get so much joy out of re-living childhood things through his eyes. Going in previous years, we had always skipped the little people stuff, so I was also seeing some things for the first time. Our first stop was the Buzz Lightyear ride. Toy Story has recently become his new "thing" so he is all about some Buzz & Woody. Then, we rode the spinning tea-cups, the carousel, It's a small world, went to find Mickey, (which you can see from the pictures that he was less than impressed with life-size Mickey) rode the Jungle Cruise, went back to Tomorrowland for lunch and a souvenir Buzz and Woody. By that time his eyelids were getting heavy so we headed back home for a ginormous nap. There were some other rides we wanted to do, but the lines were pretty long and he had done so well, we didn't want to push him. We couldn't have asked for a more gorgeous day and will be going back soon!

"Where's Buzz, Mommy?"

Using Daddy's ears as handlebars

Mickey? Not so much.

Clutching onto Buzz & Woody. He hasn't put them down all day.

We are still here...

2011-02-18T17:08:00.000-08:00

We have been busy taking care of a sick little boy, who is luckily on the mend. After running 101-103 fevers last weekend, he is finally acting himself today. The diagnosis was sinus infection and post nasal drip with an awful, awful cough. No fun.

Unfortunately, Poppa and Nonna came to visit right in the thick of it, so our plans of going to Disney were replaced by snuggling on the couch and playing puzzles. I don't think they minded too much. Here are a few pictures.

This was taken a couple of weeks ago, but was too cute to not be included.

Poor baby was so pooped he just passed right out in Nonna's lap. He never does this.

Valentine cupcakes

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-09T05:05:00.000-08:00

A break in the clouds.

2011-02-06T06:21:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a good, good day. After a long week of battling it out with my little man who is knee deep in terrorist two's, we were due a fun day. He did not object to one diaper change or turn to a screaming ball of limp jello and when trying to get dressed and out of the door. He did not shed one tear, produce one whine, or flounder on his back like a cockroach when told no. I was so nervous with Jeremy being gone this weekend that I would have to be heavily medicated to get me through the weekend, but no. He was just my sweet, fun boy.

I know we will have good days and bad. He is in a developmental stage that is inevitable and imperative for him to become the independent little being he was created to be. I would love to blame it on his 2 year molars, which I know have something to do with it, but I think this is just the new normal. I've heard it gets worse at 3, I've heard it gets better at 3. I don't know. I guess it doesn't really matter, we will roll with the punches because that is what we do. And because even in his worst of worst, he is still the most precious darn thing I have ever laid my eyes on. In the meantime, I will be perfecting redirection and picking my battles wisely. All I ask for is 500 extra patience points from the Divine. Please and thank you.

Anyway, back to our day. We had a lazy morning, went over to "aunt" Meme's house for a couple of hours, went to go see the ducks in the lake, came home, napped, played hard, ate dinner and played chase for the remainder of the evening.

trying to fit through the kitty door. He kept asking "how to make it works, momma?"

New Art Prints

2011-01-30T09:55:00.000-08:00

Being a creative professional doesn't always mean we get to be creative. For the most part, I am very blessed to be able to put my God-given talents to use and call it my job, but sometimes there are weeks when I don't have any "fun" projects. Or sometimes I just get in a creative slump- kind of like writer's block.

A few months ago, I was approached by a woman in our congregation who wanted to commission me for some design pieces. For what the pieces were being used for the artwork had to be done in Illustrator (not my strong suit). I pretty much know all the ins and outs of Photoshop and InDesign, but Illustrator, eh. I had a really bad teacher that semester. I was a little nervous to start especially since all of the artwork had to be drawn from scratch. No help from Istock here. But it was so very refreshing to create something different than what I was used to. So much so, that I started working on these art prints Friday night. I was feeling inspired to put a fresh twist on some popular bible verses. I have been having so much fun doing these, I was toying with the idea of opening an Etsy shop. Not that I would make much off these, but I have been looking for extra creative outlets lately. Thoughts? Feedback?

Chocolate Eclair Cake

2011-01-24T08:24:00.000-08:00

Occasionally, I feel the need to share a recipe on here. This is a very good, very easy recipe that doesn't take much time to make, but you will need to refrigerate it for at least a few hours before serving. You could always make a lower calorie version by substituting some of the ingredients for lower fat versions. Or not.

I got the original recipe from allrecipes.com

Ingredients
2 (3 ounce) packages instant french vanilla pudding mix
2 cups milk ( I used 2%)
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
8 oz. package of cool whip
1 (16 ounce) package graham crackers

For chocolate glaze:
1/4 cup milk
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup white sugar
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions
1. In a large bowl, combine pudding mix, 2 cups milk, and condensed milk; mix well. Fold in whipped cream and beat with mixer for 2 minutes.

2. In a buttered 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of graham crackers on the bottom of the dish.
Spread 1/3 of the pudding mixture over crackers, then top with graham crackers. Spread another 1/3 pudding over crackers; top second pudding layer with another layer of crackers, repeat a third time.

3. To make topping: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine 1/4 cup milk, cocoa and sugar. Heat until sugar is completely dissolved. Then allow to boil for 1 minute; remove from heat and add butter and vanilla. Mix well. Pour sauce over graham cracker layer and refrigerate for at least a few hours until set; serve. (It is even better the next day)

buddies

2011-01-23T16:20:00.001-08:00

Reason #347 Why I Should Not Leave My Pantry Door Open

2011-01-16T12:58:00.000-08:00

Twinkle, twinkle...

2011-01-15T15:24:00.000-08:00

I have finally gotten around to downloading videos from my other camera. Here is one from a few nights ago. Depending on how ambitious I feel, you may see some more in the next few days...or weeks.

Saturday in the Park

2011-01-08T16:47:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day

2011-01-05T10:23:00.000-08:00

Opening his presents at his new table & chairs

Playing in his new tent. One of his favorite gifts

I guess its true that when you have been together so long, you really do start to resemble each other.

Leyton & Baylee

Uncle Richard

Christmas in the country

2011-01-03T17:51:00.000-08:00

I have to say that this is the first time going to my dad's house that we did not spend any time in Natchez. I never left the country. It was actually kind of nice. Leyton loves being out there and riding in "Poppa's big truck" and going to look at the cows. So that is what we did. We also took a hayride on Christmas Eve that we can maybe make a yearly tradition.

Here are some pictures from the country:

(Christmas day will be posted next)

the hayride

McComb

2011-01-01T13:45:00.000-08:00

We spent one of our days in MS in McComb with mom and Vince. It was a beautiful chilly day and we had a great visit!

This baby donkey, Noel, was 1 day old. How precious is she?

Meridian visit

2010-12-31T12:21:00.000-08:00

Trying out the new tricycle

Sam

Christmas at Gigi's

2010-12-29T10:04:00.000-08:00

My mother in law had a double knee replacement surgery a couple of weeks before we went home. Unfortunately she was still in the hospital most of the time we were home, but she got a day pass to come home and spend the Sunday before Christmas with us. We were trying to explain to Leyton that Gigi got new knees, so he started calling her "Gigi new knees." On the morning we left, she was coming down the hall with her walker and L ran to me and said "Oh no! Watch out! Gigi new knees comin!"

Here are some pictures from our Hattiesburg stay.

Leyton & Pawpaw

Leyton was scared of her laughing Santa, yet he demanded we turn it on.

Opening his stocking

Cousin Sadey

Torturing poor Daphne

We're Back!

2010-12-28T06:49:00.000-08:00

We are finally back after an 11-day Christmas voyage to Mississippi. It was great to visit with family and not feel rushed. Leyton was absolutely fantastic in the car. It was the first time we drove with him instead of flying, he hardly fussed or whined on either trip. He was a bit more antsy on the way back, but other than that we were pleasantly shocked. We traveled to Hattiesburg, Pass Christian, Meridian, Natchez and back to Hattiesburg. Thank God for portable dvd players and snacks. We didn't get to spend as much time with friends as we would have liked, but it was important to us to fit in as much family time as possible. And the food. So much food. Too much. I will be starting my detox diet this week.

I don't know how I will be able to sort through all of the pictures I took, so I think I will just post a few from each visit/event starting with the annual Knight Christmas which took place on the coast.

Leyton and Aunt Angela

Hanging out with E-Pop

Trying to get a "grandkids" photo. Fail-tastic.

Logan, Jeremy + L, and Jimmy aka "Jeremy with hair"

Checking out his new tricycle from the Knights

Checking out the puppies with Cousin Melissa

Mississippi or Bust!

2010-12-15T13:11:00.000-08:00

That way, daddy!

Scenes from the Birthday Party

2010-12-12T19:12:00.000-08:00

the invite

Kristen snapped this pic (and the 2 above that) Thanks!

Happy 2nd Birthday, Leyton

2010-12-12T05:34:00.000-08:00

Leyton,

Today, you are two.

No, not just two -- you are TWO! You are TWO!, in capital letters, with an exclamation point. You are a toddler. A little boy. Officially, forever, not a baby anymore.

It sounds so cliché to wonder where the time went, but seriously: It seems like just yesterday we were bringing tiny, clench-fisted little you home from the hospital, and now you're walking. You're talking. You're amazing.

I'm having a tough time writing this to you, buddy. I don't want to forget to include a single detail about the incredible kid you're becoming, but no matter how long and detailed I make this letter, I know that there is absolutely no way I can do you justice. You are this unstoppable force in my life, a little boy made up of energy and light. You are utterly indescribable. You defy the boundaries of words; you surpass everything I could have possibly imagined you to be.

You are the best part of my day, every single day. The instant I open the door to your room in the morning, you spring up from where you're lying in you crib and shout, "morning, momma!" and lay your head down on my shoulder. And in the car on the way to school or wherever we may be going, you jabber in the back seat and, I find myself smiling like a fool at the sound of your sweet voice. Every day, it seems, I find something to marvel at when it comes to you.

Living with you these days is such an adventure, because Daddy and I never know what you're going to do or say next. You've had a huge language explosion over the past couple of months, and we can't keep up with all the new phrases you're picking up on a daily basis. You constantly surprise us with everything you know. I can't even describe how incredible it is to be able to talk to you, to hear you respond, to see understanding in your eyes when we tell you something. You understand us! You really do! It is the most amazing feeling to have watched you grow you from a tiny newborn who was incapable of communication (beyond crying, that is, and you certainly did a lot of that) to the little boy who can now ask us for just about anything he wants. Like Dora, big trucks and goldfish. You always want Dora, big trucks and goldfish.

Leyton, sometimes you are so independent and impossible. Right now your most common phrase is "no way!" You are stubborn and emotional and can throw temper tantrums worthy of a child who's been two for at least six months (but thank you for only throwing those about once a week). You are unintentionally hilarious when you get mad. You test boundaries and deliberately disobey and flat-out refuse to listen. You are completely and utterly exhausting at times, but even at your worst, I couldn't possibly imagine loving you more.

Other times, most of the time, you are so sweet that it just about breaks my heart. You approach the world with curiosity and fearlessness, but with just the right amount of caution. I love watching you explore. I love seeing this world through your eyes. Everything glows under the light of your gaze.

I have been told, if you want to remember something you should close your eyes and take a mental snapshot. Here are some of the snapshots I have of you in my head, some of the things I just love about your two-year-old self that I never want to forget: You have entered the "question phase" and every five minutes you ask us "what you doooin?" or "what's dat?" You also like to put your hand behind your ear and say "Listen, momma." You love to dance and spin "round and round". You are so proud of your self when you count to ten or answer a question and immediately start clapping and saying "Yay, Leyton" when you get done. You love to sing, especially "itsy bitsy spider." You love when daddy tickles you in your sweet spots which is under your arm and on the back of your thigh. You love cows, choo choo trains, big trucks, firetrucks, race cars, and airplanes more than just about anything in the world, except bacon. Man, do you love bacon. You also have a bad habit of chewing the rubber wheels off of all your cars and trucks. You sleep with your little blue elephant "Ellie" and it takes you awhile when you wake up to part with it. You love to have us read you books. It is about the only time you will sit still in my lap and then when we get done you say "read it again!" You love to help with chores, especially unloading the dishwasher and cleaning up your toys before bed. You love to be outside and you love to swing. You can sometimes be such a ham that I wonder how we are related. You love your daddy. I mean, you always have, but he is like your buddy now and sometimes it is much cooler to do things with him than it is me. And that's ok. When we drop you off at school or Sunday school, you refuse to walk from the car inside unless you are being carried. Same when being picked up. I have to tote all 28 lbs of you and your stuff. Otherwise, you run and run all over the house and are rarely still. You have been very stubborn about wearing clothes lately and have been trying to take them off. You refuse to wear pants when we are just staying and home and will only let me put them on you if we are going somewhere.

I love the pitter-patter of your bare feet (because they are always bare; you refuse to wear socks if you are not also wearing shoes) as you run around the house. I love singing to you and praying with you before bedtime. It is one of those rare times in the quiet where you just snuggle next to me with your head on my shoulder (or daddy, we take turns tucking you in). I love the look on your face and the light in your eyes when you’re proud of yourself. I love the way you run to me and almost knock me over with the force of your hugs, how you still reach up your arms to me to be picked up. I wonder how much longer you'll do those things.

I can't believe how quickly you're growing up. You're beginning to develop an identity outside of me and Daddy; you're becoming an independent, wonderful little boy full of personality.

Have I ever told you how I pray for you? I pray every morning and every night that you will grow up to be a wonderful God fearing man and that we, as parents, glorify Him on our journey. And even though you've been with us now for two years, I find that each time I look at you I see you as if it's for the first time. You still take my breath away, for hundreds of thousands of reasons that change every day. And while sometimes I miss that snuggly little baby you were, I am so proud of the sweet little man you’re becoming. It is an honor to hear you call me Mommy, to have the pleasure of watching you grow and learn and explore, to be the recipient of your mighty hugs and messy, delicious kisses. Being with you & daddy is the greatest joy of my life.

Happy Second Birthday, my handsome little man. You are pretty much the most awesome kid ever. And you’re mine...my boy.

Love,

Mommy

Leyton year 2 video compilation

2010-12-10T03:32:00.000-08:00

Leyton turns 2 this weekend. I am in denial. I have to say I have done a bad job of video documentation this year. Since our newer camera doesn't have video, I don't pull the old one out as much. On the upside, at least I didn't have as much to sort through and cut out. It was so shocking though to see how wobbly and little he was in the earlier parts. I can't believe he has grown so much so fast. Enjoy.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-08T12:24:00.000-08:00

Leyton and the lights

2010-12-03T16:28:00.000-08:00

January is typically one of my least favorite months. I'm not really sure why. Maybe its because Christmas is over. Or the fact that I am ready for summer again after Christmas. Or because I usually break my resolutions by the third week. This year I am dreading it for a different reason. My child will be devastated. He has developed an unhealthy obsession to Christmas lights. I am already racking my brain as to how I am going to explain to him why they are no more.

He wakes up talking about Christmas lights. In particular the "deer wights" across the street, and the "Peanut wights" a few houses down. Non-stop. He doesn't understand why they are not on at 8:00am. It has been our nightly tradition to walk the neighborhood and check out the lights. He is so funny and gets so excited "Wook, momma! Over der! Pwetty wights!" Last night before we approached his beloved deer lights he said "Deer wights, ready or not, here by tums!"

Here are a few highlights:

Ah. The birthday ducks. Don't know where that came from, but everytime we walk by he calls them the "birthday ducks" and tells them happy birthday. (?)

His favorite. The deer.

The Peanut Lights

The moving deer lights. Try tearing him away from these.

My little Santa

2010-12-01T13:31:00.000-08:00

Christmas Decorating

2010-11-29T18:57:00.000-08:00

Nothing says Christmas like temps in the upper 70's. Lucky for us, we were having a "cold front" move through the day we put the tree up which made the temperature dip into the sixties. Brrr. Nevertheless, we had fun putting up our Christmas decorations. Leyton is very smitten with the tree. He tells me every 10 minutes "Wook, momma! Cistmas wights! Twee!" I am proud to say, he has only knocked off one ornament. He loves to touch them and make them spin, but hasn't yet tried to take them off. We'll see how it goes. He also loves our stockings and hugs them all the time.

Here are a few snapshots from our day. Oh and there are some from the morning after. I just couldn't resist getting pictures of L in his footie pajamas. It gets harder to find footies as they get into toddler sizes. I love them.

A visit from Gran

2010-11-27T05:46:00.000-08:00

My mom came in for a visit earlier this week, or "Gan" as Leyton calls her. We had a grand ol' time and Leyton gave away plenty of his good hugs. We exhausted ourselves playing, went to our favorite airplane spot, and Gran even bought him what every little boy needs: a red firetruck.

A Day of Thanks

2010-11-25T05:54:00.000-08:00

I'm thankful for:

Our loving God who extends his unfailing grace to me on a daily basis.

My precious little boy who makes me laugh every day.

My selfless husband who continues to amaze me.

Our health.

Our family. We wish we could see them more, but we are grateful for the time we do get.

Our home. Many people have lost their home the last few years due to the economy so we don't take this for granted.

My mom's recent visit (pics coming soon).

Our church that has taught me to be more open minded and try to see people as Christ does.

Our jobs. We couldn't be more blessed.

Leyton's teachers that watch over him on Tuesdays and Ms. Heather that watches over him on Thursdays. We are blessed that he loves going both places and thrives on learning.

Our friends near and far.

The little things in life, like seeing the excitement Leyton gets when he sees Christmas lights. Oversized t-shirts after Thanksgiving dinner. Or the fact that Mr. Cadbury decided to make his Mini Eggs into chocolate Christmas balls.

Love.

2010-11-21T09:52:00.000-08:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-17T12:39:00.000-08:00

Successful Saturday

2010-11-13T16:39:00.000-08:00

While the hubs and I attended the UCF vs USM game (which we won, btw), Leyton spent the day hanging out with our favorite Ethiopian/Dutch family. Apparently he had a blast and they had a blast. He watched the "pishies" in their aquariam, read books, played drums, played piano, went swinging, painted, charmed "MeMe" with his lips and lashes, took a three hour nap and saved all of his poopies for momma & daddy. Win-win. Mariam or "Aunt Meme" was so sweet as to take pictures and send them to me. Doesn't look like he missed us much.

Washing hands with Amber, Aby and the neighborhood kiddo.

Recent Ramblings...

2010-11-10T15:36:00.000-08:00

I suppose I am long overdue for an update post. I realized earlier that I haven't been very good recently about jotting down Leyton's latest tricks, milestones and such. Since I sort of use the blog as a journal following Leyton's little journey, I figured I better get busy and try to get some of it down before I forget it all. Here are some of his recent "happenings:"

• He can recognize and name all of the letters of the alphabet (uppercase).

• He can count to three.

• His most often used phrase is "No Way!" I don't know where he learned this, but a simple "no" will just not suffice.

• He can recognize and name blue, red, green, purple, orange, yellow and black.

• In true toddler fashion, he does exactly the opposite of what he thinks we want him to do in any given moment.

• He LOVES books. Sometimes all he wants us to do is read him books. His favorite books right now are Dr. Suess books, Berstein Bears, Good Night Moon, and a Piggies book.

• He would now prefer exploring the neighborhood by way of sidewalk over playing at the playground.

He can throw a good ol' down-home, countrified fit with the best of 'em. Sometimes it is painful to try and keep from laughing. Other times it is just pitiful.

• He is a parrot. He repeats almost every single thing he hears, which can be cute until I am fussing at him.

• We are working on his manners. He has please and thank you down. But it drives the southern gentleman in Jeremy nuts when he says "yeah" or "yep" instead of "yes ma'am."

• He loves his "night night" time and nap time. And he does not fare well when he is woken up. We are all much better off if he wakes up on his own time.

• He now has a new obsession with the garage. I don't get it. I really don't. Of all the places in the house to play, WHY the garage?

• He is so much fun, and is usually in such a playful mood.

• Anything with a motor is the coolest thing in the world. Boats, trucks, choo choo trains, tractors, motorcyles (or as he calles them "bikes"), airplanes, firetrucks. You name it. It is in a boy's dna, I suppose.

• He is starting to use adjectives: "big truck, yellow ball, bright sunshine, orange lights"

• His favorite songs are "The Itsy Bitsy Spider" aka "Isty Bider", "Twinkle Twinkle", "Jesus Loves Me" and "Oh Happy Day"

• When you ask him his name he says "Leyton Knight." See video below.

• He randomly tells people "Happy Birfday"

• He loves going to "school" on Tuesdays, Ms. Heather's on Thursdays, and church on Sundays. The busier, the better.

• He is pretty much a Chatty Kathy. He picks up on new phrases and words everyday. It is amazing to think that there was a time when he couldn't talk. Here are some of the phrases he has been saying recently:

I broke it :"uh-oh, I bokit"

Fix it :"Momma, pixit"

Where did it go? "Whey it doe?"

There it is "Oh, Dey it is"

Watch this "Watch dis"

What's that? "Whatzat?"

Put it in the trash "Puddy tash"

• He is the light of my life and challenges me in ways I didn't know were possible. He also brings me indescribable joy and makes each day an adventure.

Finally Fall!

2010-11-06T16:35:00.000-07:00

Yay for cold weather!! It finally feels like Fall here in Florida. It may only last for a few days, so we are soaking it up this weekend.

Have No Fear...

2010-11-04T08:19:00.001-07:00

Captain Awesome is here.

Halloween 2010

2010-11-01T05:21:00.000-07:00

Here is my little Train Conductor for the evening. We had a successful outing at our church's annual Trunk & Treat event. Luckily we got there a little early, so Leyton got one of the bounce houses all to himself. He was just pleased as punch. For the remainder of the evening, all he cared about was having a lollipop firmly planted in his mouth.

(Leyton and Karys, his Thursday play buddy)

with Uncle Dave, better known as Uncle "Wee"