The White House

For those of you that check...

2009-10-19T08:48:00.000-07:00

I am officially signing off! Most of my friends and family that want to see what we've been up to are on facebook now. We've been so busy this fall that I've not had time to sit down at the computer and update. It's been a little easier to just email pictures out or post on facebook. :)

Peace, love, and happiness!
Amanda

Disney On Ice

2009-09-27T19:56:00.000-07:00

Addie Kate and her buddies went to Disney on Ice this weekend, and then celebrated Perri Brook's Birhtday! We all had a blast! We also got to visit with our friends Jen and Steve this weekend while they came up here for pictures. Fun weekend!

Fall Soccer ~ "Go Lions"

2009-09-04T05:43:00.000-07:00

2009-09-04T05:40:00.000-07:00

Addie's team had her 1st soccer scimage the other night... she scored two goals! Woop woop!!!!!!!! She celebratedt the rest of the game, beaming from ear to ear. Go girl!

Fresh Beat Band

2009-08-31T19:04:00.000-07:00

For all you mommas that KNOW you watch some NOGGIN!... Addie is determined that she will be the next member of the Fresh Beat Band! Here she is practicing... enjoy!

Jellystone Park

2009-08-31T18:42:00.001-07:00

Roasting Marshmellows

Yogi's Visit to our cabin

Hey Hey Boo Boo!!!!!!!

We had a fun filled weekend with the Medlins and the Curtis clan at Jellystone Park. We camped toghether in cabins, with A C of course, and did everything from smores to ghost stories around the fire! Yogi Bear even came to the cabin and brought the kids chocolate milk and moon pies! The pool there is awesome for kiddos! There is a huge waterslide in the middle; made just for kids! The best part of the weekend was when we were sitting around the campfire and Calvin was telling the kids a story about "Bloody bones!" Craig, a friend of Jen's, hid behind the cabin and came running out screaming. The kids scattered like it was there job! The adults were laughing so hard we were all about to wet our pants. Memories!

Friday Night Fever

2009-08-22T17:57:00.000-07:00

So, I guess we're really "Mustangs," but it did Coach Poole's heart good to see Addie in some blue and gold Friday night! "Ms. Sissy" rounded up a cheerleader suit for Addie Kate and off to the Olive Branch football game we went. We sat on the field in the end zone and the kids played while Addie got to "cheer" with the big girls! It was a blast! We also met my dearest childhood friend, Brady, and his family for barbeque while they were in town. We took all the kiddos to the zoo Sat. and then crashed at the White house for a nap. I know this weather is just a tease, but it sure has gotten me ready for fall!

Con Artitst

2009-08-17T17:27:00.000-07:00

O.k...so the 1st day of preschool didn't exactly go as planned! Addie Kate got up this morning VERY excited, picked out her dress, found her bow, put on her new shoes, and was ready to roll. Two hours later my phone rings, "Amanda, your baby just THREW UP everywhere!" Seriously???? After driving 15 minutes back to school to pick her up, I found out she MADE herself throw up, because she was "feeling a little tired" and wanted to come home!!!!!!! Now granted, she had been sick last week with a high fever and maybe her little body wasn't up to par, but come on!

Her daddy called and told her he'd spank her bottom next time that happened. Her response, " Um.. mom, you sure do look pretty today!"

The Relatives Came...

2009-08-17T17:18:00.000-07:00

This past week we got to visit with our cousins, Lori and Mark Christian. They brought their precious boys, Sully and Slade. Sully and Addie had a fantastic time playing together, making forts and battleships out of scraps in the backyard. Both kiddos could relate to each other, having huge imaginations! We enjoyed a great meal of barbeque, thanks Coach for picking it up!

I'm a big girl now!

2009-08-11T13:31:00.001-07:00

Addie Kate has begged for a "pink" big girl room! Our compromise was bedding, this was one battle she was not going to win! (because I'm sure her pink paint would be somewhere in the electric, hot pink, fuchsia range...) The final result...

A Big Day

2009-08-11T05:34:00.000-07:00

Monday Addie had "meet the teacher day" at her preschool and her first soccer practice! We were so glad to see Ms. Jacque again and her new assistant Ms. Tina. After getting acquainted with her new classmates, we headed to soccer practice. I was really nervous because I can see Addie stomping her foot on the field when someone kicks the ball away from her! She did really well though and said, "Mom, that's super fun... I like being a soccer girl!"

It's the 80's Baby!

2009-08-09T12:32:00.000-07:00

Saturday night our Sunday School class had an 80's party. I've never laughed so hard in my life! We played "rock band", 80's jeopardy, and 80's karaoke. I saw everything from my outfit I wore at my 8th grade sports banquet, to the girls who just left a Madonna Concert. Calvin and I went as DEVO...YOU MUST WHIP IT!!!!! Too fun!

We also had fun with Pepaw earlier. He took the grandkids to the IMAX to see Under the Sea. The loved it! Thanks for a fun day Pepaw!

New Orleans

2009-08-03T15:11:00.000-07:00

This weekend I took a much needed "mommy break!" I went with some friends on a girls' trip to New Orleans! We headed out EARLY Friday morning. Friday we went to the French Market and had dinner at Acme Oyster House... YUM! Now, it wouldn't be a trip if everything went smooth, right??? Friday night after settling in and FINALLY falling asleep, we hear EVACUATE THE BUILDING!!!!!!! The loudest alarm I ever heard sounded and eight sleepy girls went hauling butt down the stairs... NINE floors!!! Of course, on floor "2" we hear, "you do not have to evacutate the building!" By the time we all made it back up to our rooms, we were laughing so hard (and all needed breathing treatments) no one could go back to sleep. What a night!
Saturday we headed down to the Garden District and shopped on Magazine street. Calvin made us wondeful dinner reservations at Irene's to finish the night.
Thanks girls for a wonderful weekend, "off!"

Watch out Paula Deen

2009-07-27T16:16:00.000-07:00

This Christmas Carrie Beth gave Addie a Paula Deen cookbook and apron. Addie is my little chef and LOVES to bake! She has learned to crack eggs, use measuring cups, and spread icing. After dinner tonight, she headed straight to the pantry and said... "let's bake something!" I happened to scrounge up a sugar cookie mix, but had to pull it off like it came out her cookbook. (he he he)(of course I never have all the ingredients for a true recipe) Thanks C.B. for the wondeful gift, one that I enjoy as much as her!

This house is Dangerous!

2009-07-27T16:10:00.000-07:00

Or... that's what Cooper, next door, said so Addie wouldn't come over. They are a hoot! Those two have a total brother/sister relationship. The other day he pulled out every toy that Addie has ever thought about being scared of and put them in front of the door!!! Nobody told her and when she needed to go in their house to potty... it happened...the scream that could have been heard around the world. It was too funny!

MY BROWN EYED GIRL

2009-07-27T16:08:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Princess...

2009-07-11T14:20:00.001-07:00

6:30 a.m. at the White house... "Mom, don't you need to wake up and sing... HAPPY BIRTHDAY PRINCESS to me?" Gotta love her!

Four years ago the doctor's were saying,"Its about to get LOUD in here!" and it hasn't stopped since! I was blessed with a child who would be loud, talkative, creative, imaginative, and a total free spirit who truly believes she was a princess in a past life! Of course at "4," there is the ocassional pouting, total attitude, and stomping of the foot, but overall my Addie is kind hearted and loving and I wouldn't have it any other way. This little 4 year old girl will never know what all she has brought to my life. When I got pregnant with her, people thought "OMG, What have you done... how are you going to care for Bailey and her?" Honestly... I had no idea how I would do it either! Now, I don't know what I would have done without her! What a blessing you are, Addie Kate White!

2009-07-09T19:30:00.000-07:00

Blueberry Pickin'

2009-07-09T19:25:00.000-07:00

Tonight we went to Nesbit Blueberry Farm with the neighbors! It was VERY hot, but a lot of fun! The blueberries were pretty scattered, but still plentiful! They told us since their farm was featured in Southern Living, there has been a nonstop crowd. It's a really neat experience... you get a bucket and are set free into rows and rows of blueberry bushes. You can eat as you pick! A gallon is only $11.00. When you leave, you get a brochure with yummy blueberry recipes in it. After we finished, we took the kiddos to Happy Daze in Nesbit for burgers and milkshakes. What a fun night!

Lazy Days of Summer

2009-07-02T20:05:00.000-07:00

Well, we've been at the beach for almost a week and have one full day left. We stayed in the small community of Seacrest Beach, right next to Rosemary Beach on
30-A. Our house was beautiful, the town was awesome, we ate WAY too much, and the kids had a great time! We celebrated both Bailey's and Addie's birthdays at the beach this year. Bailey got her 6 balloons in Heaven and Addie picked out her own cake (Ariel of course.) We seemed to spend most of our time at the pool, but got beach time in as well. I took SO many pics... here are some of my favorites!

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

2009-06-23T06:32:00.000-07:00

Lessons Learned

2009-06-23T06:08:00.000-07:00

This Monday is my angel's 6th birthday. How appropriate for us to celebrate at the beach! Bailey just thrived there, each time we went. We will stand on the beach and release 6 balloons, watching them float up to Heaven. I always get pretty emotional around this time, but a "good" kind of emotional. I shed tears, but good tears. Bailey's birth was a very touch and go situation, but a total miracle. So when we celebrate her birth, we can't help but be grateful! I was thinking the other day about how much Bailey taught me and how my outlook on life changed so much. I wanted to share some of the lessons we learned from raising a special needs child, with a terminal genetic disorder.

1. We are not in control.
I am a planner. I like to know when things are going to happen even before they do! I always had a "plan" for my life and knew just how I wanted it to unfold. Well, the funny thing is, when you think that way, God has a way of reminding us that He is in control, and He is making our plans.

2. When you are handed lemons, make lemonade.
From the moment Bailey was born, we were handed bad news. Every doctor, every bit of research, every bit of medical science was negative. To our surprise, we were given a fighter who was here for a reason. We had no idea Bailey would be on earth for 3 1/2 years. We had no choice but to think positively.

3. Be grateful.
God gives us life. It can also be taken away. I have burried my 1st child and now see how fragile life is. Be thankful for every moment of every day. :)

4. Our problems aren't so bad after all.
My innocent child struggled to breathe every day of her life. She couldn't feed, talk, walk, or use the bathroom on her own. Yet, she continued to smile and was pretty much just thankful to be here. When I think of the petty things that upset me, do I really have it that bad?

5. This too shall pass.
O.k.... did we cry? Yes. Get mad, question God, fight, and so on? You better believe it. How did I get through it? Heavy medication! Again, this too shall pass.

Thank you Bailey for making 3 1/2 years some of the most wonderful days I'll ever have.

Out of the mouths of babes...

2009-06-22T10:32:00.001-07:00

Every time Addie stays with someone, I always ask, "Was she good?" The response is always the same. "Oh yes, she was good.... but my word, the stuff that girl says!!!" So, I've tried to do a better job jotting these things down so that I can always remember them when I need a good laugh!

This week, this is what I've heard...

"Mom, I love your pretty hair."
"Why thanks Addie."
"It makes you look very distinguished!"

"Where is that stinkin' FERmote?" ( fermote=remote )

"when I go to the beach, I'm going to tell the chef to make oyster Masagna."
"oh yeah?"
"yep, maybe with a little catfish sprinkled in..."

"Look Mom!"

2009-06-19T13:11:00.000-07:00

Today was the last day of swim lessons for Addie! I have to say, Ms. Melissa is a miracle worker! I was so proud of my little girl. She even jumped off the deep end, came back up, and than swam to her teacher... with no tears!

An Interesting Weekend...

2009-06-15T05:47:00.000-07:00

O.K...so we knew the weather was predicting a few thunderstorms here and there, but had no idea and F2 Torndado was going to touch down just a few miles from our house! We had company coming over and Calvin was out cooking hamburgers on the grill. It started to rain a little and out of no where, the bottom fell out. Calvin came running inside and told us to get away from the windows. A few seconds later a tree fell in our backyard, short from hitting our bedroom window. Then, a HUGE tree in the backyard was uprooted and is lying across the tops of the other trees. This lasted for about 10 minutes before everything went calm. Our yard looked like a disaster zone. We were VERY fortunate. Everyone was safe and we had no house damage.

Bless North Central Power Company! They have been working around the clock to get everyone's power back on. Thank you Mr. Pat!

Saturday night we went to Pepaw's house and had dinner. The kids had a blast playing together. Thanks Pepaw! Sunday, we took Addie to the Fed Ex St. Jude Golf Tournament. Addie absolutely loved it! Calvin told her she had to use her "golf course" voice or they'd put her in the golf course jail where people go that talk to loud. (a.k.a. Port a potties) She did fabulous! The best was when a few golfers were walking up to hit, and Addie reached out and touched one on his shoulder. "Have a good golf day," she said. He fell out laughing and said "thanks!" ... Classic Addie moment!~

Bye Ms. Mandie!

2009-06-07T11:34:00.000-07:00

We recently had a surprise going away party for Ms. Mandie, Addie's assistant teacher in her preschool class. We are going to miss her more than she'll ever know! She was SO very good with my baby girl, helping her to grow, learn, and mature, while constantly encouraging her imagination and personality along the way. We'll miss you!

Addie's Dance Recital

2009-05-30T12:51:00.000-07:00

Woo...it's over!!! And boy am I going to enjoy the break! Last night Addie had her
1st Dance recital. She was TOO excited, mostly because she got to wear make-up...! She did such a great job on stage. Seeing her face when she saw people she new in the audience was just priceless! Our family brought her roses and her comment was, "did you get me these because I winned them?" The THREE HOUR recital, and being hyped up on skittles and coke, kept us up till almost midnight, but it was very worth it!

Memorial Day

2009-05-26T13:31:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial Day! Our usual trip to Pontotoc got rained out, but we made the best of it right here at home! Seeing as we had bought sandwiches and fixings for "20," we just had an open door and all had lunch at our house. Then neighbors came over, along with mom and Turner, and we played the day away. After long naps, we joined up with the neighbors again and took the kids to eat BBQ at Natural Born Grillers... YUM! When we got there, the restaraunt next door was hosting an outdoor party. A local radio station had the music blasting so of course our kids had to put on a show! They danced their heart outs! The day wouldn't have been complete without Calvin cutting a watermelon and spreading it out in the driveway (the true redneck side coming out) for all to eat.

Thank you to all who have served our country and who continue to do so!

WOO HOO... Summer is here!

2009-05-22T05:07:00.000-07:00

We've been pretty busy lately!!! Addie finished her first week of preschool, she had her first "spend the night" company, she mastered bike riding (pedaling without going backwards to break and steering), and we spent the night in Nashville Wed. while Calvin played in a charity golf tournament for the Boys and Girls Club of Nashville. Oh, and Addie has her dance recital next week, so throw in about 10 extra practices! I'm SOOOO looking forward to a lazy summer, swimming, our vacation to the beach, and Addie is counting down the days until her 4th birthday.

I'm also excited that we will be at the beach in June for Bailey's 6th birthday. WOW, my baby will be "6!" It's kind of ironic, because everytime we went to the beach, Bailey just thrived. Her breathing was better, she always smiled, and just seemed to have less health issues. Every year we go to the cemetary and release balloons, so Bailey can get them in Heaven. This year we get to do that at the beach... we'll realease 6 balloons, and Addie will do her usual "Catch sissy, these are for your birthday!"

It's Your Turn CB... Shout out to YOU!

2009-05-22T04:55:00.000-07:00

Carrie Beth always gives "shout outs" on her blog so TODAY... A big shout out to her... HAPPY BIRTHDAY CARRIE BETH!

For those of you who don't know let me tell you why I love her so... When we were at Desoto Central teaching, both Carrie Beth and I were the "new, young" teachers who really didn't know anyone. We both were wanting to begin our masters degree and someone thought we should meet. The rest is history! We discovered we came from such similar backgrounds, with similar likes and dislikes, and the most awesome friendship began. We began our masters together, and quit together! :) She created "camp Amanda" when I was layed up in a chair, FAT, pregnant and vomiting by the minute. She kept me sain! She wanted me in her wedding, even though she knew I would be LARGE... and so not cute. She saw me throught the birth of Bailey, and saw many tears throughout her 3 years of life, while remaining strong for me. She has moved twice, and rarely a day goes by that we don't talk.

C.B... I love you, and cherish our friendship. Have the most awesome day!

Mother's Day

2009-05-11T10:53:00.000-07:00

I have to say, Mother's Day is a little bittersweet for me. I can't help but think of my sweet angel that first made me a mother. Though she is not here, I am blessed to have my wonderful mother and my other fabulous daughter to celebrate. Saturday night we went to Taylor (near Oxford, MS) and had dinner at Taylor Grocery with Calvin's mom... and oh my, it was GOOD!!!! If you've never been, I suggest making a girls day out of it. It's an artsy little community with fun shops, and neat places to see. There is a Southern Living idea house there as well. Sunday my family treated me to lunch at Osaka, followed by a peaceful day and shopping with friends.

Oh, I wanted to share this little fact with all you mothers... our preacher's sermon was titled "wonderful Mothers". Did you know that women make up about 50% of the world's population, YET 75% of the world's work is done by women??? DUH....

This is how we roll...

2009-05-11T10:28:00.001-07:00

O.K... so our kids are a little "red" around Chessie Drive... this is what they love to do! Our neighbor, "Mr. Pat", built trails throught the woods behind our homes. They love to ride four wheelers in the trails and will stay outside all day! I love it!

From the Mouth of My Babe

2009-05-01T08:40:00.000-07:00

One of these days I'm really going to do what people tell me and write down all the memorable quotes from my daughter.

It started early this week with "Mom, We've got a problem!!!!" Well, she was RIGHT. Kermit escaped. Who knew the little booger (1.2 inch tadpole) could get out of my tupperware overnight! I guess we will "smell" him in a few days.

Then, as some of you know, I got a "Hey Mom, pull my finger and see what happens!!!"
Thanks, Calvin.

The absolute best was last night. This was the conversation:
"hey dad, wanna know how boys and girls are different?"
"Um... I guess so?"
"Well, girls... they're mommas. They cook, clean, and take care of all the babies. They do everything. Boys... they're daddies. They don't do ANYthing!!!"

Gotta love a 3 year old, calling it as she sees it!

Our New Pet

2009-04-28T05:58:00.000-07:00

Meet Kermit

Addie's teacher the other day described her as the "girliest tomboy she'd ever met." Boy was she right! She has no fear of creatures, and has no problem pulling worms out of the ground for her "worm farm" she and the boys have been making. She does this with pride, and sports her crown and dress up shoes the whole time.

On her new Bible Songs CD, there is a song that talks about the "wonders of God," one being tadpoles. How convienent that our neighbors just brought home a bucket full of them! Addie was given one, and therefore we have our first pet. It's kind of cool... that little booger sprouted arms over night!

I am Thankful for Great friends!

2009-04-26T13:13:00.000-07:00

Addie and Perri before church

The gang... in full out princess attire... always.

Addie has been wanting to have some of her best buds over to play, so Cavin and I decided we'd just have a good ol' fashion cookout! Some of our friends from church came over Sat. night. We grilled, watched the kiddos play their little hearts out, and laughed, laughed, and laughed some more. (Well, the girls did, the boys were watching the draft...) Addie also ended up with her first "spend the night company!" Her friend Perri spent the night and the girls did great.

We are really blessed, and are so thankful for our awesome friends. (I only wish C.B. was about 3 hours closer!...Love ya Carrie Beth!)

Taste of Jubilee

2009-04-26T13:07:00.000-07:00

This weekend Calvin and I went to Taste of Jubilee, a fundraiser for Jubilee Schools of Memphis at the Pink Palace. We met up with our friends Tammy and Aaron and had a great time! You get to sample food from twenty restaurants in the Memphis area. The fried green tomatoes from the Cupboard were the BEST!!! It was fun to have a "grown up" night out!

zoo field trip... with 16 3 year olds, need I say more?

2009-04-22T04:49:00.000-07:00

Easter Time

2009-04-13T15:29:00.000-07:00

Easter this year was a blast! Addie had an egg hunt at school with her preschool class, we had our annual church egg hunt, and then we hunted more eggs at MeMe's house! Easter morning Addie sat up in her bed and said,"DID HE COME?" Her favorite Easter happy was her Olivia the Pig doll. She still won't let me put her goodies up. They are all lined up on our living room floor...She's yet to figure out that the Easter bunny loves that dollar aisle at Target!!!!!

Fishes for Wishes

2009-04-05T13:13:00.000-07:00

Saturday Night was the annual Make-a-Wish crawfish boil and party at Snowden Grove. It's such a fun night, and raises lots of money for Make-a-Wish! We always enjoy going and getting to see all our buddies who made the dream happen for us. Ron Olsen DJ's, the band Aquanet plays, and all the crawfish and drinks ones stomach could hold. This year, our friends, Kim and Scott, and Emily and Pat went. Thanks guys for going!

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-04T12:51:00.000-07:00

What a fun morning! Our church had their annual egg hunt for the little ones. Addie played her heart out than found as many pink eggs as she could. As I was getting her dressed, I noticed marker all up and down her arm. "WHAT IS THAT?" I asked, stupidly.
Her response, "This says, I am SELLING EGGS FOR $2.00." Straight up in hot pink marker on both arms. Never a dull moment at our house.

Fun at the Zoo

2009-03-19T05:42:00.000-07:00

We had a great day yesterday at the Zoo with Pepaw...along with every other person from Desoto County and Memphis!!!!!!!!! Although parking was horrible and it was very crowded, Addie and Turner had a blast together and managed to see all the animals. (and of course, Addie HAD to take her shoes off and walk in the NASTY water I had already said "no" to)
Thanks PePaw for a fun day out!

Happy Birthday Calvin

2009-03-03T14:35:00.001-08:00

Happy Birhtday to our favorite man.
We love you,
Amanda, Addie, & Bailey

Baby it's Cold Outside!

2009-03-01T17:59:00.000-08:00

March 1st... SNOW.
8:00 a.m.: Whites vs Medlins snowball fight.
9:00: biscuits and bacon for all at the Whites
10:00 back outide for more play
10:30: I'm so over it.

Where is spring???

Happy Birthday to...

2009-02-28T15:41:00.001-08:00

Misha, Mark, MeMe, Grandmother, Addison, and Mason!!! Oh, and the few I'm sure I left out! Feb. is THE birthday month around our house. (Doesn't everyone have one???..that one month where everything hits all at once!) We've enjoyed celebrating, had WAY too much cake, and played our hearts out.

LITTLE MISS ATTITUDE...

2009-02-28T15:24:00.000-08:00

Anybody feeling my pain? I don't know what magic happened around the age of 3 1/2, but little miss sassy pants is in full force. (C.B...yes,I stole that from Norman Gentle) Lately we've noticed a load of attitude around our house. 100% silly, and 24/7 attitude. Little miss has also been getting her "clip pulled" for thinking she has the right to set everyone straight at school. HELP! I'm learning every day with her, I think God gave me the opposite and then some of Bailey. Since Bailey would never talk or never walk, I have Addie... who can't quit talking, and could run circles around the Tazmanian Devil. Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't trade this awesome child for the world and she is the light of my life, but lately I seem to be praying... A LOT. :) God love her.

Happy Valentines Ya'll!

2009-02-13T10:02:00.000-08:00

I'm a total sucker for the holidays! My mom always had "happies" for us and made them so much fun. We've had a fun week preparing goodies for the kids in Addie's class, putting together teacher happies, and making gifts for friends. Addie is not a big "candy" person, so she got an Alice in Wonderland doll from mommy and daddy for her happy this year. Me Me helped Addie decorate her Valentine box for school and today was a blast! Cupcakes, cards, fun and more fun! Here are a few pics to sum up the week... Oh, check out the cool cookie from Addie's friend Sam. It was a lightning bolt and said "I am struck by you!" How cute!

Get well all you kiddos!

2009-02-10T11:00:00.000-08:00

O.k., so it seems all of Addie's best buddies have been sick lately. Cooper has had an ear infection and poor Ellie Shelton has had about 103 fever for 2 weeks now. Well what do I get for bragging about my child "never getting sick?" She's got the stomach bug! The poor thing threw up right in the middle of Pleasant Hill Elementary yesterday. Today she's better, but the pics say it all. The first is in the morning, she's picked out her outfit of choice, and we're deciding what to do on our "play day." The next is 10:30 a.m. Usually by 10:30 a.m. we are BEGGING her to calm down! Of course it gets in my head and I then I think "Oh crap, I'm gonna get this too." But Addie told me, "It's O.k. momma, just make sure you throw up in the bowl!!!!"
Well, Calvin and I are well for now, and she's on the road to recovery.

A big ol' "Get well" soon goes out to all our buddies!

I wish I could say...

2009-02-05T06:48:00.000-08:00

I had a ton of neat stuff to write about, but I don't. It's been pretty boring around our house this winter. I am so ready for a little bit of warmer weather, sunshine, and capri pants... I can't stand it! Every day Addie is just itching to get outside and play. To save our sanity, we've begun planning our beach vacation for this summer, YEA!!! The other day, we got in a discussion with Addie about what kind of birthday party she wanted this year. Her response: "I think I just want my own little beach house this year." DONE! If you're beginning to plan a trip, Calvin has started renting through VRBO or Vacation Rentals by Owner. It saves you big money! Rather than going through a rental agency, you rent straight from the owner, saving many different fees.

Stay warm!

Snow Day

2009-01-28T05:23:00.000-08:00

Well, it was a pitiful little snow, but to a three year old ~ it rocked! 7:24 a.m. and we are the only ididots on the street up and at it. I'm also glad my neighbors love us, because Addie sure just busted up and rang their doorbell!

Kids being Kids

2009-01-25T18:04:00.000-08:00

O.K., so one of the things that I love to do is wrap gifts! I love making "cute" packages, buying fun ribbons, and sharing ideas with C.B..... SO, you can imagine my face when I went upstairs Sat. night to find Addie and her friends "wrapping" the playroom!!!! At one point, Jake came down stairs and said, "Um, Ms. Manda... I told the girls I don't think what they are doing is a good idea, but ADDIE says it's o.k!"

My lovely child and her best friend got into my wrapping stash. They proceeded to use FOUR rolls of wraphia and TWO rolls of masking tape to tape the chairs together, and bind whatever else they thought might need a touch of tape, or ribbon around it. The first thing that went through my mind was "CRAP that ribbon cost a lot!!!!" The next thing was laughter. All I could do was laugh. "Go for it girls!" They were limited those four rolls and were not to touch anything else, but I have to say they were pretty dang creative!

We had a fun weekend~ dinner with the Medlins, dinner with the Phillips and Williams, and a lazy Sunday day. Thanks Em for letting me steal your homemade oatmeal cookies!

Isn't it summer time already??

2009-01-18T13:14:00.000-08:00

I really think I'm one of those people who tends to get "seasonal depression." As soon as the first bit of cool weather hits each fall I get SO excited for the holidays, then January 1st comes and I'm SO over it! I'm ready to bake in the sun, swim, and play outside. Anyone else feel that way?

Quoting a friend, I also feel like I have a bit of "bloggers block." There hasn't been much going on at the White house. We did have a great weekend though. We had Pepaw's 60th birthday party, Calvin and I went to see Brad Paisley in concert, and I saw "Bride Wars" (which I recommend for any girl needing a good laugh!)

Addie's new "thing" is pretending she's someone else. We never know who or what she wants to be called... this morning Calvin picked her up from Children's church and they said, "Oh, you want Alice in Wonderland." He said, "I guess I do." Lately, it's been Stephanie, M-O (from Wall-E), or Darby... which she told the Ole Miss Cheerleaders yesterday she was Darby... and didn't they know she was a "Super Sleuth?" Lord help us.

I'm a proud mommy...

2009-01-08T18:52:00.000-08:00

Today Addie did her first "real" artwork! We were coming home from dinner at Danver's (don't laugh, their salad bar rocks!) and she was drawing in the back seat. This is what she came up with. Let me interpret...
Drawing 1: "The Grinch" : the line coming out of his mouth is from where she fed him a yucky tick. The Grinch is "bad" so we feed him "bad stuff."

Drawing 2: "Sailboat on the Water with Sea Creatures": a shrimp and a "happy sea snake" are the lovely sea creatures below the surface.... duhhh.

These are the things I cherish.

Victory is Sweet!

2009-01-04T10:38:00.000-08:00

I have to admit, I was not digging the whole 8 hour trip thing... to Dallas, but I ended up having a BLAST! Good friends, good food, good football, and time away with my husband. The weather was beautiful, and topping it off with a win... what else can I say?

Dallas Bound

2008-12-28T13:53:00.000-08:00

Wednesday evening we head out for Dallas, that would be just the adults...WOO HOOOO! Addie is super pumped too, because she gets to have MeMe at her side 24/7. All Calvin "really" wanted for Christmas was to go to the Cotton Bowl, so here we go! Somewhere in Addie's crazy little mind, she has decided that another word for "cheerleader" is "jody"... maybe she met a cheerleader named Jody at an Ole Miss game??? who knows... She tends to make up her own vocabulary quite often. I'm going to try and post a video of her being an Ole Miss "jody" as she gets ready for the Cotton Bowl.
Hotty Toddy!

The Big Man Came to Chessie Drive

2008-12-25T14:34:00.000-08:00

What a fun day! Addie's face was priceless coming down the stairs Christmas morning. We had so much fun opening gifts... Addie picked out special gifts for us, a muffin pan for mommy and shelves for the garage for daddy! I have to say, this Christmas has been the most fun yet with Addie. She learned the true reason of why we Celebrate, but was really into Santa as well! I am grateful for another wondeful year!

Rembering Bailey

2008-12-22T10:47:00.000-08:00

Two years ago, today, Bailey went to Heaven. Calvin and I actually are doing better than we thought. I have a peace about it today. I know she is smiling and happy. How beautiful Christmas time must be there!

Starting with my best bud in the whole world Carrie Beth, many wonderful people have called to let us know they're thinking of us! We are very grateful for all the awesome people in our lives.

The most wonderful neighbors in the world rung the doorbell today and delivered this fabulous cookie bouquet. How appropriate... Bailey was "sweet as sugar!" (and Emily does know I can do some serious damage to Angie Panter's cookies!) She even made an angel cookie for Addie. You can check out more of Angie's cookies at www.paintedcookie.blogspot.com. Thanks Em!!!

Bailey, we love you, miss you, and will see you again. ~ Mommy, Daddy, & Addie

Fun times for the White house

2008-12-21T04:55:00.000-08:00

WoW, we've been busy! I have to say though, a litte chaos is good for me right now. We had a wondeful weekend and the festivities continue throughout the week. It started with Addie's preschool Christmas party, followed by Christmas with the neighbors, out to dinner and a Grizzlies game, more shopping here and there, dinner with friends, Sunday school Christmas party today, etc. etc. etc....

I am not complaining, I LOVE it, and will miss it when it's gone!
Happy Holidays!

Is something wrong with this picture?

2008-12-18T08:06:00.000-08:00

My friend, Jen, picked Addie up a pair of "UGGS" the other day. No, I am not crazy, they were 70% off!!! I have to say, they are pretty dang cute!

But now, my three year old officially has better shoes than her momma.

(oh yeah, she was just excited she got her "Apple bottom jeans, BOOTS WITH THE FUUURRR!) (A.K.A. Low by Flo Rider, yeah we're thugs)

Missing Bailey Bug

2008-12-18T07:34:00.000-08:00

Today for some reason I am overcome with emotion. Probably because two years ago Monday, Bailey went to be with Jesus. Today I just can't get my mind off her. I do believe that time heals, but I also believe that you can never "fully" get over losing a child. Mr. Walsh, from "America's Most Wanted," was on The Today Show this week. He said it best, "Losing a child is like losing a limb, you don't get over it... you just learn to cope and live without it." I couldn't have said it better myself.

Bailey came home with us at a tiny 2 pounds, 4 ounces. I was scared out of my mind. Yes, we went through the selfish emotions of "why us? and What did we do wrong?" But, those emotions changed to "man, what did we do RIGHT?" We were so BLESSED to be chosen to have her! Bailey had the sweetest spirit. Though she couldn't breathe properly, feed, go to bathroom, walk, talk, hear, or see correctly, she managed to keep a smile on her beautiful face. One of "I'm so lucky to be here!"

She taught us to cherish life... be thankful for every second of every day. She taught us that God does have a purpose for us, we may not know what it is, but there is a reason we are created. We learned the little things that bothered us before, aren't really that important after all. We learned that all the wonderful people in our lives are placed there because we need them. Be thankful.

Today I wish I could hold her one more time. I wish I could feel her hand reach for my face. I wish her crooked little fingers would rap around mine. I wish her beautfil crossed eyes would stare at me again.

Today I feel peace in knowing I will see her again.

A Christmas Tea

2008-12-13T10:52:00.001-08:00

Today Addie's friend Perri had her 3rd Birthday party. It was a Christmas tea party. The girls had a ton of fun and a special surprise from Santa! They had red "Tea", cookies from The Painted Cookie and Santa pb&j's. Addie loved painting her reindeer ornament the best!

Stories of Light

2008-12-11T07:12:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone... Please say a little prayer for us. Tomorrow is the FM 100 Stories of Light Radiothon. Calvin will be doing a live taping to share our Make-a-Wish story at 8:00 tomorrow morning. We do it every year and Calvin does much better than I do (I start sobbing! :). It's never easy, but something we feel we should do. Tune in to FM 100 to hear.

At The Carrefour at Kirby Woods
December 11 6:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
and December 12 6:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

.

Dancin' Queen

2008-12-10T04:53:00.000-08:00

In January, Addie is starting dance/tumbling with our friend "Mrs. Lori." Lori has been trying for a while to get me to let her start, but I figured preschool would be a big enough adjustment... and I was right~

We broke the news to Addie and she is too excited! This is her new "costume" as she calls it. The pictures say it all... she has the grace of a baboon. She was busting out with her best "ballet moves."

Fun times ahead!

Computer for Dummies...

2008-12-09T11:51:00.000-08:00

So when I was trying to make my blog cute... I totally deleted the code I needed to do it! Anyone who knows me knows that A. I suck at directions and B. I am a computer dummy. I can send an email and I can sure type me up a word document, but that's about it! (oh yeah, CB made me cool with a facebook account) So... we're starting over!

O.k... now I have to vent. Yesterday as I was so kindly driving through the Wendy's drive through line (all the way around the stupid restaurant) this hoochie in her black Denali cut me off!!!! She drove right in front of me to beat me to the window. Not only did she do that, she proceeded to hang her hand out and blind me with her 10 carat diamond, then glare at me through the rearview mirror! Are you kidding me? I wanted to tell her, "look WOMAN, who died and made you queen? and guess what... my payments on my beautiful Pilot are a lot less than yours!!!.. and you enjoy your two chicken nuggets while I enjoy EVERY bite of my DOUBLE STACK WITH CHEESE!

Now, Merry Christmas.