Three Little Princesses

Eggapalooza

2011-04-23T12:40:00.001-07:00

This morning the girls and I, along with Grammi and Grandpa attended Eggapalooza 2011. It was fun, although it rained--the girls were cold, soaked, muddy, and only managed to scoop up 5 eggs total--out of the 10, 000 they dropped from a helicopter. It was an experience, but I'm glad we went! Memory made! :)

To get warm again, Grammi and Grandpa took the girls and I to Chili's for some lunch! There's not much more I love than being around the table, laughing with those I love! Thank you to Grammi and Grandpa for spending this special day with us!! We love you!

Grammi, Grandpa, Amelia, Adalynne & Avayah

The helicopter dropping 10, 000 eggs!

Oh so patiently waiting!

Adalynne, Amelia & Mommy

Avayah's Pre-K Easter Program 2011

2011-04-23T12:27:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week, Avayah had her Easter Program at school. Each class sang individual songs, along with other classic tunes with other Pre-K classes. Her class sang...This is the way we hunt for eggs, hunt for eggs, hunt for eggs--followed with really cute hand motions, you get the idea! ;)

She did great, along with her class. It was incredibly cute! My girl was in her own world singing, of course, at the top of her lungs! The little girls and I watched with enthusiam! (In the video I recorded I'm sure you could hear this momma about to burst with pride!)

Avayah in the the very center (white hairbow)

The Best and the Worst...

2011-04-21T08:50:00.000-07:00

At the present, to say this morning has been unfair and unkind would be an understatement. I woke up this morning and checked my newspaper--aka my Facebook page (yes I know I'm a severe victim of technology, but I have to say I'm thankful for it--being able to connect with friends and family that are such a distance away helps in so many ways!)

But this morning, reading a certain post in my news feed turned me sideways and inside out. Reading the hard road a dear friend of mine and her family is on...utterly broke my heart. It's painful to see your friends, especially those who are so close to your heart hurting. This was brought on by the news my friend got yesterday--her sweet dad's road of battling a unfair, harsh cancer had darkened. This is a second friend of mine to have this happen in the last year.

It strikes an all too real moment--the kind that screams when bad things happen to good people. The entire situation stirs things in me. I still remember the conversation I had with my dear friend that sliced me in half. You have her wonderful dad, who is a good man, loves his wife and kids..invests in his grandchildren and this is the unfair trial he is faced with. *Then you know someone else who refuses to envelope themselves in these things--the greatest ones in life...your loved ones--and isn't faced with anything like this??

That someone mentioned is my dad..my parents divorced when I was 12, it was event that killed a relationship--one, that is still hard to admit to myself that wasn't truly ever there. My Dad willingly walked away that day. Not only for the pain--I can't begin to imagine that my friend is experiencing...this unfair fact turns me inside out, and makes me not want to function. My friend's dad--is that Dad I would of given anything to have, that I would of given my arm to have as my girls' granddad.

Staring at my facebook--my profile picture gripped me.

This is the picture...the one staring at me, plastering a smile on my face, that forces me not to engulf myself in the past. That sweet man grinning from ear to ear is Travis, my hubby and the father of my three girls, who is that Dad--the one who will not abandon his children, who will make time and savor the memories in the same instance, that will love unconditionally...he is that Dad. I'm held together knowing this heartfelt fact.

Another friend of mine said it best--for my dear friend to celebrate her dad, to embrace every moment. This adhered to me. I need to spend more time celebrating the best of my husband and the wonderful daddy he is. To embrace, grip, and hold the moments that make me realize that although I wasn't given what I so deeply wished for, that He blessed me on another path--my husband. He gave me that someone who will love and cherish the gifts--our girls--we were given, the way I prayed (and still do) that my own dad would of.

Today I'm painfully reminded of my blessings from Him and I'm thankful that my dear friend has an unwavering faith in the Lord, a hubby that is THAT DAD, a marriage that is so strong and sweet, and family & friends that will rally around her to keep the pieces together. I'm honored to be her friend...please keep her, her dad, and her family in your prayers. Love you my dear friend..words could never express how my heart hurts for you right now!

Millie Rose 7 months...

2011-04-21T08:46:00.000-07:00

We Don't Spit

2011-04-21T08:41:00.000-07:00

I don't know how to upload this on here, but copy and paste this into your browser!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dwrtm_MvJzQ

Spring + Park= Sweet Memories

2011-04-21T08:34:00.000-07:00

Sisters swinging @ the Park

Umbrella Days...

2011-04-21T08:28:00.001-07:00

The joy and happiness created from drops of water...

My little brewd of Divas...

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

Avayah

Adalynne

Amelia

Posters on the Hill...

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

So I might have to turn this blog into a space to list my sisters numerous achievements--since they are coming in by the boat load. It's no secret my sister is kinda amazing--no really AMAZING & extremely gifted...the last couple of years she's gotten 2 outstanding internships, been published, had interviews, has an outstanding GPA, recieved countless scholarships....and this past month she was chosen to represent her college @ Posters on the Hill...and guess what?? (Really not hard to guess when you consider my brillant sister!) :)

Yep, She WON the GRAND PRIZE ($4500) @ Posters on the Hill @the capital!!!! So, so extremely proud of my extremely talented, dedicated, and beautiful sister...way to go honey!! ♥

Auntie Torti & Amelia

Amelia Rose 6 Months!

2011-04-21T07:54:00.000-07:00

So just recently we had Amelia's 6 month well baby check-up. It is confirmed...I have such sweet, chunky babies!!

Amelia tipped the scale @ 20 lbs and measured 28 1/4 inches--making her 98th percentile for both height and weight!

Wedding Dress Shopping

2011-03-24T12:08:00.000-07:00

Over Sprink Break, I got to have a fun day in Dallas wedding dress shopping for my sister along with my Mom, and Sherryl-Courtney's soon to be mil! It was a success...we found THE dress for my sweet baby sister!!

It was such a wonderful time...still strange to see my sister looking so grown up from the little girl with crazy curls and big chocolate brown eyes that I still see in my head. Most of my life, I have always wanted to protect my siblings~whether it was my place or not, (this is soo true-"Big sisters are the crab grass in the lawn of life") I was/am going to stand in the front line...this is none truer than for my baby sister, Courtney. That point given..it was incredibly bittersweet to stand in the same dressing room (just like the one's we used to fight in) and savor a moment that is going to bring change. I'm slowly coming to terms that my beautiful and vivacious sister isn't a child, or even a teenager that needs protection anymore, but a lovely grown woman who is making huge successful strides in this world and just needs support, but much like my children, I want to fight the growing phase with them and her. Courtney getting married signifies that time is surely moving forward. Fast!

Courtney, I could gush all day on you...it wasn't until after I became a mother, that I could truly grasp the significance of a sister. You are one of those nearest to my heart. To see you as an adult still hurts my heart, but brings me so much pride! Your doing good girl...and I'm happy for the beautiful future you have planned.

"A sister is a little bit of childhood that can never be lost."
“A sister is both your mirror-and your opposite."

@ Bridal Co after we found the ONE!

Me & my Madre dining & sipping sangrias @Olive Garden with Bridezilla (love you sissy)!

Splish Splash...Addy Grace

2011-03-24T12:01:00.000-07:00

Hamburgers @ Boomerang Diner

2011-03-24T11:56:00.000-07:00

Adalynne, Avayah & Daddy

Ladies Night Out!

2011-03-24T11:46:00.001-07:00

Oh how I needed this one! A couple of weeks ago, I got to go to the city (my heart breaks a little here-I'm missing OKC) to catch the flick Beastly with two of my besties, Melisa & Sarah! It was a riot, filled with delicious mexican food @Teds, strong strawberry margaritas, too many laughs, mixed in with awkward moments @ Beastly, and topped with hot Starbucks for the hour drive home :( I'd say it was a fabulous night!!!

Family Poker Night...

2011-03-24T11:35:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month, I was lucky enough to have some sibling time! My baby brother, Dane & his sweet wife Jenna bought a car from Trav~so they got to spend the weekend with us (and then came back the next weekend to watch the girls too) and my big brother, Johnny was transferring to Tinker and him & his lovely wife Lauren got to come visit us too! It was such a fun weekend being with my siblings~who I wish I could see more of! We had fun eating at Sante Fe, playing poker & watching Due Date!! Thank you to my my little bubs for fixing my laptop...you are a life saver!

Spain!

2011-03-24T11:33:00.000-07:00

I have to share my sister's exciting news.......So PROUD of my baby sister, Courtney! She got the SPAIN Internship!!!!! She was one of 8 chosen, this is the 2nd amazing internship she has gotten (she went to Harvard last summer!) She will be studying marine chemistry on the beach in Spain! Fyi-my baby sister was born in Spain, so this means the world to her!! I am so incredibly happy for her..she is a testiment for achieving your dreams! ♥ u sister!

Cousins @ the Sam Noble Museum

2011-03-24T11:14:00.001-07:00

The last weekend of February the girlies and I headed to Norman to meet Aunt Beth & Aunt Melissa along with the girls' cousins~Dax, Brody, John & Nikki @ the Sam Noble Museum! The kids had a blast exploring, playing (running, laughing, chasing), and digging for bones! Then we took our hungry kiddos over to Mcd's. Sweet memories! Here are the highlights...

Avayah, Dax, John, Nikki & Adalynne

From Auntie Courtney....

2011-03-24T11:12:00.000-07:00

A special message to Avayah~

I can't believe our big girl is 5 years old. And looking more and more like my gorgeous big sister every moment. I miss you baby girl, and to all of us who have adored you from the second we found out you were coming into the beautiful world you will always be our mischievous, cuddly, incredibly too smart for her own good (which you get from your auntie torti), reason to simply go on living for - baby vayvay. I love you sweet girl. Muah! Today you're officially 5 and a day :) I can wait to see you soon honey bunny. ♥ your auntie courti

Thought this was too sweet not to share...I love my baby sister Courtney!

Happy Birthday Avayah!!

2011-03-24T10:29:00.000-07:00

This past month we celebrated Avayah's 5th Birthday! This is the little girl who truly started it all....Travis' and my life came together in the form of a beautiful, sweet, curious, chunky 8lb 5oz baby girl, Avayah Shay. Looking back over the last five years fills our hearts with joy & our eyes with tears at how truly amazing this little girl is, we are so proud to be her parents!! To the most amazing 5 year old we know, Happy 5th Birthday Baby Cakes! We love you endlessely...

Daddy served up the fixings for Avayah for her Birthday Breakfast!

Happy Birthday to you...

Make a wish

A big thanks to Grammi for driving all the way from Norman to be with Avayah on her Birthday...you are so special and we love you!

Close your eyes for a birthday....

SURPRISE!

Avayah cruising the neighborhood on her Barbie bike!
Closing the night at a special screening of E.T. @ McSwain Theatre!

Amelia Rose~our little blue eyed beauty

2011-03-24T10:23:00.001-07:00

Six months!

Jordan World Circus 2011

2011-03-24T10:05:00.000-07:00

We had a wild blast @ the 2011 Jordan World Circus with the girlies...2 hours of thrills~elephants, crazy scary acts, pony-rides, snowcones, cotton candy, popcorn, cold hot dogs...then spilled snowcones-pants soaked, Addy trying to eat strangers cotton candy...led light necklaces that are WAY over priced...Oh to have 3 divas!! What a night...

Gramma comes to visit...

2011-03-24T09:46:00.000-07:00

The girls were so excited last month when Gramma (Melanie) got to come to Oklahoma to visit for the weekend with us! Avayah got surprised in the hallway at school~very sweet moment to watch (she was walking down the hallway after school let out, she turned the corner, preparing to say goodbye to the principal as she does everyday, then cocked her little head at the figure at the end of the hall. Within two seconds flat, she screamed then took off in a sprint to wrap herself around her Gramma! I think Melanie's face was wet with slobers from all Avayah's kisses...)

Over the weekend, we had some fun shopping around Ada, the girlies and Gramma taking walks, and hanging out~We were so glad she was able to spend some time with us!!

Valentine's Day Party

2011-03-24T09:27:00.001-07:00

Valentine's Day 2011

Avayah, Amelia & Adalynne

Avayah had a Valentine's Day party at school and the little girls and I went to help them celebrate! We had so much fun watching all the kiddos exchanging cards, eating cookies, showing off their decorated boxes, and gabbing with one another! Addy got to enjoy the fun sitting next to her sister, while Amelia was all smiles from the stroller!

My sweet girl feeling the love

Mrs. Winter, Adalynne & Avayah

Adalynne, Avayah & her besties~Kennedy & Parker

A little birthday celebration!

2011-02-06T10:09:00.001-08:00

I was so happy that we got to plan a weekend away for Trav's birthday! We had such a fun time...We met our family & friends at Crabtown and had amazing crabboil, that was beyond yummy!

Then with stuffed bellies we headed over to The Biting Sow-Trav and my favorite Blues Bar! We had such a fun time cutting loose with our friends and family! There was plenty of pool playing, tone deaf singing (that would be me~Melissa & Audrey were pretty good :) and constant laughing!

A big thanks to our family & friends for making Trav's 25th birthday a wonderful memory! And to my mom~Grammi for keeping our girls...you are amazing and a wonderful Grammi..we love you! Thank you, Thank you!

Here's some highlights...

Trav & Me @ The Biting Sow

Trav & Jared @ Crabtown

Beth, Me & Melissa @ Crabtown

Our favorite Blue's singer...Doc!

Happy Birthday Travie D!

2011-02-06T09:54:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Travie-the amazing father, husband, and man...my girls and I adore!

I'm so proud of you and the life you have given me and our girls. You have such a lovely heart, fearless ambition, and an endless amount of sweetness when it comes to raising our three little girls who's hearts you own! You are a beautiful person and I'm blessed to have married & built a life with my childhood best friend! Here's to the next 25 years!

Love,
Mrs Black!

Here's a few blasts from the past, I couldn't help but post! (My hubby was such a cute little man!)

It's a Birthday Week!

2011-02-06T09:50:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Uncle Jubie, Travis~Daddy, and Auntie Tay!

Bathtub Beauties!

2011-02-06T09:34:00.000-08:00

Snowpocalypse 2011

2011-02-06T09:13:00.000-08:00

This mega snow/blizzard storm that graced us last week was crazy! The girls and I were literally trapped-I had to stay away from this thought for sake of going mad-for 6 days~yes 6 days!!

Being homebound this many days sure enough made everyone (maybe not Miss Amelia) in our house a little stir crazy! I'm sure Trav was thankful to be able to get out and go to work, regardless of his truck still being stuck in our driveway! We are thankful his work let him have a 4x4 to be able to travel there!

The girls and I sat in our pj's, ate snow rootbeer floats, almost watched our entire disney movie collection, colored a zillion pictures, and sat and stared at one another! :) Most of the days it was too cold for the girls to get out and play in it...but we managed to get our feet wet a few times! Poor Ad's legs weren't long enough for most of the snow drifts around our house, she got stuck so many times~very cute site!

Three Little Wonders...

2011-02-06T08:45:00.000-08:00

Adalynne (2), Avayah (4) & Amelia (4 months)

Amelia supporting her Mommy's fascination..I mean obsession with a fictional character..rather known as Mr. Edward Cullen!

Madonna Fan? I'd say so!

A little vintage blast from the past~Amelia in her Madonna onsie!

The many faces of Ad Grace...

2011-02-06T08:36:00.001-08:00

Sassy's first day of Pre-K!

2011-01-13T09:42:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago Avayah started Pre-K here in Ada and she is loving it (maybe not the early bedtimes or mornings so much :/)! Here in Ada they attend all day, which has been a severe adjustment for each member of our family.

After having her home with me for almost 5 years I'm definitely in a weird place in life. I feel like we just started a race and I'm so worried that we're going to run too quickly or it's just plain going to pass by too fast and after blinking she is going to be in high school. I know someone people would say, "get a grip", but it's true...life is definitely in turbo speed these days. So I'm left wanting to grasp to the days when she was two and in her squeaky little voice she'd ask me what we were going to do today...I want to savor every moment of my girls' childhood. This is why I do this blog, take five million pictures, and pray endlessly at night for my true little loves.

Poor Adalynne still asks about 5 times a day, "where Laya Mom?" And Amelia might be a little more content to not get picked up and bobbled as much though :) But Avayah really has adjusted well, she is a fast adapter! The future is looking bright for her and I'm so excited to see her grow and learn...

Getting ready to head to school!

Moving

2011-01-13T09:27:00.000-08:00

So I don't think I've mentioned on here that we MOVED to....Ada, OK. I'm here to say it's been a journey! I was a little more than half heartbroken to leave Yukon, a place where we have cherished friends, a target, a lovely church (amazing pdo program), and just plainly the lives we built for the last 4 years!! But isn't it true..."The only thing that stays the same is that everything changes." That has to be my mantra these days.

Travis accepted a job here in Ada...so over the course of a week we packed, wrapped, and loaded almost every last thing we own and trucked it to Ada. I don't know how we would of managed without the help of family and friends! (Bubba I'm so thankful you hit the gym 5 days a week, because without you we'd of dropped the fridge, cracked the washer and dryer, and wouldn't of been able to pick up half the boxes I way over packed down with weight! I'm so lucky to have you as my big brother, I think your pretty amazing!)

So after all that and a dent in Trav's new pick-up (long story!!) we arrived in Ada and have been getting settled ever since. The pace is definitely different than the city, but it's a nice change. And above all I'm in a place with the 4 people in the world that are most important to me, so we will make a new place a home where ever we go!

Black Christmas 2010

2011-01-10T10:34:00.000-08:00

The day after Christmas we drove to Melissa & John's house to celebrate Christmas with Pawpaw & Granma-Steve & Melanie and Aunt Taylor..and all of our family! We ate Mexican, watched football, and had a ton of fun hanging out! The girls got to love on their great grandparents, snuggle up to their Granma & Pawpaw, play sword fights with little John..it was such a great time! We are blessed to have such loving family!

Thank you to Melissa & John for hosting such an amazing Christmas!

Adalynne, Pawpaw & Avayah

Adalynne & Taylor

Melissa, Melanie, Me & Melissa

Amelia & Me

Amelia & Trav

Granma & Adalynne

Granma & Amelia

Pawpaw, Adalynne, Avayah, Granma & Amelia

My Christmas Surprise....

2011-01-10T10:03:00.000-08:00

A month or so before Christmas my husband Travis started hinting around about this BIG Christmas surprise he had instore for me, and anyone who knows me...knows I despise surprises! I always have to be in on the secret...but not this time! And who would of ever thought my own Momma would be in on fooling me...well definitely not me! After hounding Trav, turning up my house upside down, and partly going insane...I still couldn't figure it out!

Finally on Christmas Day while at my mom's house...my husband surprised me with a new wedding ring-one I had shown him a year ago that I loved! I definitely have one amazing man!!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-10T09:01:00.000-08:00

Christmas is one of my favorite holidays and this year definitely was one to remember! We started off our Christmas celebration at our home. On Christmas Eve the girls made sugar cookies from Daddy's special recipe for Santa and made sure to leave carrots for all of Santa's reindeer too!

Then EARLY (early as in 5:45 a.m.) Christmas morning Trav and I were tugged out of bed to see the delights of smiling faces squealing that Santa had been in our home. Regardless of our body aches and brains not fully awake we opened presents...and the girls were more than thrilled!

Then after a short nap and the girls' consumption of a LOT of candy and Mommy & Daddy's pot of coffee devoured we loaded up and hit the road to Norman to celebrate with Grammi & Grandpa and my siblings! We were so blessed this year to have all four of my siblings there: My sister Courtney, her fiance Garic, My brother Dane & his wife Jenna, and my brother Johnny & his girlfriend Lauren, and my step-brother Danny & his wife Trish. We all had a wonderful time..so many laughs shared, pictures taken, and surprises revealed! I'm pretty sure the girls' loaded down our Armada with the spoils of Grammi & Grandpa too!

Thank you Mom for hosting such a beautiful Christmas!

Here are some of the highlights!
Lauren, Me & Courtney
Love my hubby!
Garic, Courtney & Amelia

Johnny, Me & Amelia
Grammi & Amelia
Johnny & Lauren
Addy Grace

Thankfulness...

2010-11-27T07:20:00.001-08:00

While we were traveling (anybody who has ever droven from the city to Altus knows it's a looonnnnggg drive-meaning there is nothing to look at except dirt), so I had plenty of time to compile everything I've have to be thankful for this holiday season and the list is just like the drive-long! I won't list them all...but here are the heaviest on my heart.

More than anything in this life, I'm most proud, grateful, and thankful to be the mother of my three daughters, Avayah, Adalynne, and Amelia, who mean more than life to me. These sweet girls make our life interesting, bring endless love, joy, and laughter to our hearts, and more than anything they make us a family. They keep their Daddy and I working harder to work it out. (seriously love me some Buble!) I'm grateful we all have our health too..my heart and prayers goes out to families we know and don't know that are struggling with illnesses.

I'm proud to be my husband's wife. I'm grateful that we are still standing together; our marriage, love, and sense of humor intact. We still have a long way to travel, but man the future is looking bright! I'm thankful that God gave me and Trav enough grace and courage to be able to move forward and reopen doors with our families too.

I'm thankful to and for our parents for coming together with forgiviness, understanding,courage, and lots of love. From the bottom of both our hearts we love you all and can't wait to begin the next chapter...

To my Mom, words could never express how grateful I am to you. Thank you for teaching me to never give up..and what the importance of tradition is. I love you immensely!

I'm thankful for my siblings-Johnny, Courtney, and Dane and their significant others. Close doesn't describe how close we truly are. You all limbs of mine who help me function..without you I'd be lost. I can't say enough, for this year alone, what your love and compassion did for Travis and I. You all are the best!

To my bestie, Melisa. In a sea of friends, you are beyond a rare find. I could just cry thinking of how you held me together this past year...how your wisdom, love, and encouragement was my lifeline. If only you knew it was you that kept me laughing! I love you beyond words friend!

And Melissa, girl if their was ever someone who I had more incommon with I'd be shocked. I admire and respect who you are, and love you to pieces. Thank you for your patience, late night phone calls, and love. I wish I could describe what all that and you mean to me, but I think you know!

2010 has definitely been a whirlwind of emotions, change, and trials, but the way I look at it is simply like this...Doesn't it always seems we stress to the max over the holidays; what gifts to get, where we will split time, and any other drama that could unfold? Sanity is knowing holidays are a season, they are over just as quickly as they arrived. I know I will look back on these crazy, hard, and trying times this past year and realize it was just a season of my life and the next chapter can only get better.

Beyond it all, I'm blessed beyond measure...and truly couldn't ask for anything more!

Happy Holidays!
Lvs,
S

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-27T07:07:00.000-08:00

The girls, Travis, and I-along with our pies and the Armada loaded down...traveled down to Altus this past week to celebrate Thanksgiving with Grandpa Dan, Grammi, Courtney, Garic, Dane, and Jenna! It was such a great time. I'll say it again, doesn't get better than being around the table with the ones you love sharing some food and a laugh-and there were plenty and probably at my expense! ;) (Um...BOOM!)

Seeing my girls running around, getting loved on was priceless. Addy now thinks it's her job to make french toast-thank you Auntie Courtney for being creative with my girls! I'm still laughing at how funny it was seeing the little girls playing Dance Dance Revolution...and my baby brother Dane on expert level! Hilarious!
Eventually I will get my hubby to turn in his man card and get up there and shake it! Here are some pictures of our stay!

It's a Turkey Feast...

2010-11-27T07:00:00.000-08:00

Amelia and I had such a wonderful time going to Avayah's Thanksgiving Feast at school this past week! She looked so festive in her turkey hat. She did such a great job creating her hat and her placemat; they were beautiful! I was so proud of my girl as she went around introducing me to all her school friends!

My Girls...

2010-11-27T06:55:00.001-08:00

All the way from Phoenix

2010-11-27T06:49:00.000-08:00

The girls' Pawpaw made a special trip to Oklahoma to see the grandbabies and the girls could not of been more excited! Avayah and Adalynne got to go with their Daddy and Pawpaw to Clinton to see Granny Polly, Meme, and Papa. They had so much fun visiting, playing, and romping around with Daddy on Papa's four wheeler.

A little road trip....

2010-11-27T06:36:00.000-08:00

The girls' great grandparents, Meme and Papa, made it back to Oklahoma a couple of weeks ago after spending time in Colorado...so the girls and I along with Melissa, John, and Jessie loaded up and hit the road to Clinton. After we inhaled Wongs (the best chinese eva!), we had such a nice time catching up, while the Avayah, Adalynne, and John ran wild all over the house! Amelia was definitely loving some Meme too; she just cooed and smiled up a storm!

The Big Girls!

2010-11-11T15:45:00.001-08:00

Avayah and Adalynne have been so busy lately!

Avayah is really loving school and can't wait to be a Kindergartener next year! She is counting like crazy and can write her name as well as everyone else's (Mommy, daddy, Addy and almost Amelia) from memorization. A few things she is learning are letter's sounds and simple math...like coins and such. I'm so proud of her! She is loving being the biggest sister diva in the house! We also cut her hair again into a cute chic bob!

Adalynne has energy that could fuel an entire city. She is up before everyone in the morning and is usually getting into some sort of mess that will take mommy countless hours to clean! Like today, when I found both the girls in their closet with the door shut at 6:30 a.m. Before I opened the door, I heard their little whispers, which is a sure sign of mischevious trouble! So I sucked in a breath and cracked the door open. To my dismay, there were my two girls in their pj's sitting on the closet floor with a bag of Tyson frozen chicken tenders (thank goodness they were fully cooked) between them. And of course in their hands were half eaten FROZEN chicken tenders!! I didn't know whether to immediately scold them, laugh, or just GAG! There is definitely never a dull moment in this house, that's for sure!

Amelia's 2 Month Check-up

2010-11-11T15:25:00.001-08:00

So I know it's almost cliche to say, "I can't believe that my sweet little girl is already 8 weeks old." But it's just so true. Where has 8 weeks gone??

I have had so much fun with her over the last 8 weeks...I'm so in love with this girl! She is so full of life and and so patient with her big sisters, who love her-I mean squeeze, touch, and try to feed her-it's amazing. And yes I literally mean feed. I guess Addy Grace thought that her baby sister was just not getting enough to eat that she actually tried to feed-meaning almost accomplishing shoving a fruit loop in Baby Amelia's mouth!

There is so many stories I could share over the last eight weeks, but this post may never end if I travel down that way, so I'll stick to the update. Amelia had her eight week appointment last week and it went great!

She weighed in at 14 lbs 10 oz, yes we all were shocked. But what can I say she loves to eat a lot!! She also had grown 3 3/4 inches too! She is such an active baby, she has taken up making the most adorable sounds...I really think she thinks she is getting her 2 cents in too. She hardly ever cries and is such a snuggle bug. Her eyes are getting lighter blue everyday and her hair is just as dark as her big sister Avayahs'. She has the most adorable cheeks and button nose! She follows you and your voice where ever it travels too!

Avayah still asks me a thousand times a day if she can hold her, while Addy is consumed with making messes that she hardly notices she is there sometimes! Here are some pictures of Miss Amelia Rose!

Family Time!

2010-11-11T15:13:00.000-08:00

So last week brought some special family visitors to our home! My brother Johnny came to the city with his sweet girlfriend Lauren for a wedding and they stayed with us. Needless to say...my big brother Johnny is such a wonderful uncle, who my girls just adore. While Lauren was at the wedding rehearsal, they rallied Uncle Johnny to play some soccer outside and even watch Toy Story 3 with them. This is Amelia and Adalynne with Uncle Johnny, (Avayah was at the movie theatre with her bestie Maddy watching Megamind!)

Also, Grammi brought the girls and I some delicious Ted's last week too! We can't say enough how much we love having her over! The girls got to spend some time playing and eating with her before she had to leave to volunteer at the Regional Food Bank!

Halloween Party 2010

2010-10-22T12:32:00.001-07:00

Today the girls got to have a fun Halloween Party with their friends at our home!! They had fun playing, coloring spooky color pages, and eating yummy cookies & banana ghosts (Thanks Melisa!)...and because of these crazy thunderstorms going on last night and this morning...we added creepy darkness to the party when the power went out half way through!!! Ahh..the memories!

Amelia, Avayah & Adalynne

Avayah, Emercyn, Hadley & Adalynne

Avayah & Jack

Amelia Rose

2010-10-22T12:24:00.000-07:00

Bunk Beds...

2010-10-22T12:22:00.000-07:00

Zoo Birds...

2010-10-22T12:12:00.000-07:00

Trav took the big girls to the Zoo with their cousin Little John & Aunt Lissa & Uncle John...they all had a blast feeding the birds at the Zoo!

First Day of School

2010-09-07T13:39:00.000-07:00

Today was the girls first day of Parent's Day Out at our church! They were so excited to pick out their outfits, get their backpacks ready, and pack their lunches! Trav and I had fun dropping them off this morning together, and baby Amelia and I picked them up this afternoon. They both did great and had such a fun time meeting their new teachers and friends! We are so excited for this year!

3 Princesses~Avayah, Adalynne & Amelia

2010-09-07T13:27:00.000-07:00

Going Home

2010-09-07T13:02:00.001-07:00

After Miss Amelia got here...we only had to stay 24 hours in the hospital...so around 6 p.m. on the 31st we were headed home to anxious big sisters Avayah & Adalynne, who were beyond thrilled to get to welcome home their little sister!

A Few First Moments

2010-09-07T12:49:00.000-07:00

First Bath

Laying under the warmer getting toasty

Yay~we passed our hearing test!

Daddy's first diaper change!

The Big Day!

2010-09-07T11:04:00.000-07:00

Disbelief...had it really already been nine full months?? The morning of August 30th, brought so many emotions...excitement, wonder, joy, anxiety, and fear-just to name a few-but most of all PRIDE. My sweet and precious Amelia and I made it the LONG haul!

This was by far a hard pregnancy, and such a hard year full of some definite heartache, and tough choices. I am so grateful for my family and friends who helped me close doors and overcome so much! And now looking at one of my three best rewards, I know every step taken was worth it to get the happiness and peace we have now. I am so grateful for the life I have and our newest addition to our family....

Amelia Rose Black

8-30-2010 @ 5:17 p.m.

August 30th, 2010~Bright & Early~ 5:00 a.m. heading to the hospital

Eleven laboring hours later...the sweetest reward!

Amelia Rose Black

One Proud Momma!

8 pounds 3 ounces
20 inches long

That special moment!

Grammi, Auntie Courtney, Amelia, Mommy & Daddy

So Sweet!

Proud Daddy

Big Sister Avayah

Our family of 5!

Jewelry Galore....

2010-08-24T07:41:00.000-07:00

Mommy's Birthday!

2010-08-24T07:24:00.000-07:00

So I just had my birthday a few weeks ago...and now I wish everyday was my birthday! I got to eat yummy pizza buffet with my best friend...shop, and then my mom, sister, and her fiance Garic came up for a cookout! Trav made some yummy food and my strawberry cake was delicious!! Best part of all...was hearing my two sweet girls singing happy birthday to me while their baby sister Amelia played the kick drums in my stomach! Ahh...life is good!

So we might be a little crazy....

2010-08-24T07:19:00.001-07:00

but I promise life is more fun this way!

I love my Auntie!

2010-08-07T13:31:00.000-07:00

So one of the girlies' favorite people finally made it home from Harvard Medical School...Auntie Courtney!!!! Avayah & Adalynne have been asking non-stop about her all summer long, and I think they we're definitely confused as to why she hasn't made an appearance at our house in awhile!

Courtney just ended her summer internship and Avayah and I got to pick her up from the Airport (Daddy & Addy were taking naps!)...and take her to have some pizza! Avayah was so excited to see her...she even had to show (sing) Courtney that she now knows 5 of the Sugarland's songs by heart..(cutest thing ever to hear her belting out their songs...she's so in love with that Sugarland that her Daddy & I are taking her to see them in concert the end of this year).

Courtney had a blast in Boston..and did amazing on her medical research too!! We are so proud of you Courtney...and you define what being a good auntie is all about! So glad to have you home! <3

Camping....sort of

2010-08-07T13:06:00.000-07:00

So after Travis and I spent the weekend of our 6 year anniversary at Lake Murray camping back in July...Avayah has been begging to go "camping" after she saw the tent! Well let's just say a 4 & 2 year old, plus a 6' 2" daddy & 36 week pregnant mommy don't make for a real camping combination...at all!
So....mommy's solution...

Yes, this is our tent set up INSIDE of our living room! Original plan was for Dad & Vay to camp in the backyard, but the sprinkler and pool soaked the ground...so the party was relocated inside!

The girls had a blas, even though Mommy & Addy both bailed for mom's king size pillow top matress! But we all had so much fun staying up late & having smores, reading an endless amount of the girlies books, and rolling on the air mattress! What precious memories!!

Summer Sweetness

2010-07-23T16:32:00.000-07:00

A Baby Shower for a Princess

2010-07-19T16:35:00.000-07:00

So...it's no secret I have the most fabulous, gracious, and sweetest friends!! And I feel totally spoiled rotten for being blessed with each one of them...these fabulous girlfriends of mine got together and threw me & baby Amelia the most DIVINE baby shower!!

If only words could do justice as to how much I truly appreciate, adore, admire, and love these ladies...

Heather, Lacey, Me, Melisa & Chasity

"Friends are those who nourish the spirit."

I could not agree more with this quote....everyone of these ladies has enriched my life full circle...from countless conversations full of laughter and tears, to support on raising my crazy divas, to fun times at every last play place in the metro, to waiting in line for hours to see "Edward"...I could go on and on, so instead of writing a novel as to how much fun I've had because of these girls...I'll keep to the subject at hand..this sweet princess's shower....

This entire day is absolutely a treasure in my bank of memories....everything from Heather & her sweet daughter Kinley driving a great distance to be apart of this special day, to the most beautifully stylish invites, deliciously yummy food, gorgeously divine cake, all topped and gathered with with the best friends and family!

Here are some highlights....

My glamourous cake!

Lacey, Me, and Chasity

32 weeks & my darling Adalynne Grace

Yummy!

From the bottom of my heart & all the way around my ginormous belly~Thank you to all those who made this day grand in everyway!! I am more than grateful!

A 4th of July Celebration

2010-07-07T20:40:00.000-07:00

This year the girlies, Trav, and I got to spend the 4th of July out on the lake..and it was an absolute blast! We all had so much fun cruising the lake, swimming, snacking galore, getting sunkissed by the sun (mommy got way more than her fair share of sunrays!), and fishing! It was such a fun memory to make with our sweet little girls! (I'm a little sad that I wasn't brave enough to bring my camera out on the boat...so no pictures of our boat outing!) :(

We also got to catch a viewing of the Yukon Fireworks Show with the Moss Family! The girls had so much fun playing with their cousins Nik & John..and the Vay and Addy got to love on their Uncle John (who Adalynne adores!) & Auntie Lissa! Too cute!

A 4th of July Cookout

2010-07-07T20:31:00.000-07:00

This year the girls and I got to join in the on some of the 4th of July fun going on at the Hildebrand's home...we got to eat some yummy food & the girlies got to play with their friends! Fun times!!

Dress Up

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

Earlier this week Grammi and Gigi Nani came over and we loaded up the girls and headed to the mall for an afternoon of shopping! The girls were so excited to go shopping at the disney store...their was no talking them out of their Woody & Jessie dolls, since me and the girls just went and saw Toy Story 3 with some of our friends!

When we got back...Addy Grace had to whip out her new dress up outfits she got for her birthday and give us a fashion show...in a matter of five minutes the girls had all their tiara's, princess high heels, and dresses out it was too cute. Here's some highlights of Addy being a little diva....

Dane & Jenna's Wedding

2010-07-03T13:40:00.000-07:00

My baby brother, Dane just tied the knot with his sweet fiance Jenna on June 26th, 2010! Their wedding was absolutely beautiful and I couldn't be happier for the newlyweds!

To make the wedding day even sweeter...our two little princesses got to share in their moment by being the flower girls...and it was truly precious!! The "throwing of the flowers petals" went perfect, considering Avayah and Adalynne are 4 and 2...but things got a little funny when Addy Boo decided that she needed to retrieve all flower petals back up in the middle of their vows! Cute, cute memory!

Dane & Jenna, We love you...thank you for being such a delightful couple and sweet & thoughtful Uncle & Auntie! More than Best Wishes...

Mr. & Mrs. Dane Garcia

Love my baby brother!

Sweet Avayah Shay

Mommy & her girls

4 Generations: My mom, Lisa, Addy Grace, Me, and my sweet Gigi Nani

Addy Grace & Gigi Nani

A Day of Birthday Magic for Addy Grace

2010-07-03T13:12:00.001-07:00

It's hard to believe that our little ham is 2! Just two years ago on June 23rd @ 12:43 p.m. God blessed us with our second little slice of heaven, Adalynne Grace. She has given our family so much joy, laughter, and bliss!

To celebrate our sweet little girls day...Daddy, Mommy, and big sister Avayah and the birthday girl picked up dough-no's (Addy's name for doughnuts), hung by the pool while big sissy had swim lessons, went to the Omniplex and played the entire afternoon, came home and got to swim, while Daddy cooked out for us, and then we topped off the day by chowing down on some yummy birthday cake! Here are the highlights...

Wearing our birthday crown, while inhaling some dough-no's

So excited about arriving at the Omniplex!

Happy Birthday to you!

Swim lessons for a little water bug...

2010-07-03T12:59:00.000-07:00

Avayah just completed her second year of swim lessons! Over the course of her two week session, she did amazing!! I was so proud of how she followed direction, kicked her little gams, and was able to hold her breath underwater for 3-5 seconds! Addy did so good too, watching her big sissy treading water!

Princess Twinkle Toes Dance Recital

2010-06-06T19:12:00.000-07:00

Avayah just wrapped up another year of dance this past weekend! It is truly amazing to see the progress she has made since she started dance two years ago. She had one fun, yet hectic recital weekend.

Her ballet/tap class of four performed a ballet routine to All Day/All Night~Jesus Loves Me! She was absolutley wonderful and entertaining, and I'm so proud of the little performer we have on our hands!

Spooners...

2010-06-06T19:10:00.000-07:00

Splashing into Summer...

2010-06-06T19:02:00.000-07:00

The girlies had their friends, Hadley & Jack over for a pizza/pool party! They had so much fun kicking summer off splashing, chasing, and being silly little kiddos!

Amelia's Nursery

2010-06-06T18:45:00.001-07:00

I have finally hit that point in my pregnancy where I woke up one morning and said to myself..."um, yeah Sarah, you only have 12 weeks until she's here!" The whole nesting-organizational element kicked in and suddenly I'm plagued with a serious case of OCD!

Even though I'm stressing, it's so exciting! I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to prepare for my third daughter's arrival, she is already so, so special to me!

This is what I have accomplished in the last week of my get-it-done craziness!

Our third little blessing is......

2010-05-21T21:36:00.000-07:00

not a charming prince, but a sweet princess! Our home will continue to be full of the sweet & sassy sounds of little divas and we couldn't be happier!

Our third precious daughter, Amelia Rose will be here in 3 1/2 months!!

Happy Birthday Torti!

2010-05-21T21:07:00.000-07:00

My baby sister, Courtney turned 21 on the 10th and the girls and I-thanks to Grammi-made her a fabulous birthday dinner! To make it even sweeter Avayah & Adalynne whipped up a red velvet birthday cake, with just a little help from their mommy dearest. Not many things are more dear to me than being around a table with ones I love and sharing some laughter.

By the way, have I mentioned that my sister leaves for Harvard Medical School for her summer internship in 3 weeks and will also be applying to Medical School this fall! ~For most of my family and friends, yes I know I've already told you like 5 million times, so now I've resorted to telling strangers in Wal-Mart (seriously!) but I can't hide how I'm gushing with pride for my sister!

Sissy, I am SO proud of you and your many accomplishments at such a young age! You are a beautiful, unique, classy, and talented lady and will make an excellent doctor!! I adore you more than words could ever express...you define what being a sweet, loving sister & auntie is all about!

Happy Momma's Day!

2010-05-21T20:58:00.001-07:00

I had a wonderful Mother's Day with my girls and family at Grammi's house! We had some yummy food, got sunkissed at the park, and got spoiled by Grammi! Thank you Mom for making my Mother's day truly wonderful! You are the BEST momma ever and I'm beyond blessed to be your daughter!!!! I love you!

A Walk through Martin Nature Park

2010-05-21T20:50:00.000-07:00

Trav, the girls and I loaded up and spent an afternoon walking the beautiful trails at Martin Nature Park. The weather was perfect for catching sights of pretty birds, carp & turtles, and mischevious squirrels!

Daddy & his fishing girl

2010-05-21T20:44:00.000-07:00

Trav took Avayah for a fun afternoon fishing with her Uncle John & cousin lil John. They had a blast catching fish and running through the fields!

Sleeping Beauties...

2010-05-21T20:41:00.000-07:00

A Day at Roman Nose State Park

2010-05-21T20:32:00.000-07:00

We took the girls for an afternoon trip full of hiking, fishing, and exploring at Roman Nose Park. We had fun having a delicious picnic, blowing endless bubbles, and playing at the park!

The sweet music of my life....

2010-05-21T20:30:00.001-07:00

Some Egg Fun!

2010-05-21T20:20:00.000-07:00

The girls got to have a fabulous Easter party with their friends Hadley & Jack! They dyed some egg masterpieces, demolished some yummy cookies, and got to exchange some fun books!

Happy Easter

2010-05-21T20:10:00.000-07:00

We had a busy Easter this year...we got spoiled by Grammi, had a fun time gathering in Clinton for church, an egg hunt, and a wonderful meal with Travis' family, and the girls got to have a fun Easter Party with friends!

A Valentine's Day Treat

2010-05-21T20:03:00.000-07:00

Avayah and Adalynne got to have a special Valentine's Day Party with their best little girlfriends..(and sweet Jack). They had so much fun eating strawberry cake, making cutesie crafts, and exchanging some fun treats!

Time to Tumble, Skip, and Flip!

2010-05-21T19:52:00.000-07:00

This year we celebrated Avayah's 4th birthday at Mat Trotters Gymnastics! Vay got to romp around with family and some of her best little friends! We definitely all had a blast!!

Happy Birthday Princess Avayah!!

2010-02-24T11:28:00.001-08:00

It's so hard to believe that 4 years ago, Travis and I became parents! At 11:12 p.m. our first precious little baby girl blessed us with her presence, and since that moment life has never been better! She has brought so much love, joy, and constant laughter into our hearts! We are beyond blessed to have the priveledge of being her parents!

Happy Birthday to our Princess!

~Avayah's new baby Lilly~

Snow, snow, and more snow....

2010-02-02T19:15:00.000-08:00

We had another snow storm this week! And besides the fact that the white snow everywhere is gorgeous, I am sick of winter! I want summer, heat, sunshine...it's so bad that I'm craving a sunburn!

Well, the rest of my family is relishing in the delights of all this snow-SNOWCONES! (yes..Trav, Addy, and Vay have been overdosing on Dr. Pepper snowcones) We got out in it a couple of days ago and had fun playing in it!

3's a charm!

2010-02-02T19:12:00.000-08:00

Yes....We Are Pregnant!!! We are expecting our third blessing the last week of August and we are so excited!!

Cooookin!

2010-02-02T19:07:00.001-08:00

Addy Grace loves, loves to cook! She has been eating up her new kitchen Grammi got her & Avayah!

Scissors + a 3 1/2 yr old=a bad haircut!

2010-02-02T18:47:00.000-08:00

Yes, my sweet, darling Avayah got ahold of a pair of scissors and gave herself one styling (NOT) do! After I survived my heart attack...and yes said a few profanities and shed a few tears, we had to end up cutting her hair off into a bob. So now unless I sweep her hair over to the side she looks like a child rocking a mullet to the fullest, because she hacked her bangs to the roots.

But in the moment of it all as I sat on the floor of my bathroom, holding my sweet girl in my lap while we both cried, it was a moment burned in me that I will savor.

As she sat craddled in my lap, crying her eyes out (big alligator tears streaming down her hot cheeks) saying over and over that she didn't want short hair. In her words, "Momma, please I don't want short hair...please momma" Right then I was helpless, it was out of my control to make her hair magically grow back on her head. But in that moment, even though I couldn't grow her hair, I was able to cup her face and tell her how beautiful she was-with or without long hair! Ah...these moments are priceless!

I do miss her long hair-which took 3 1/2 years to grow out), but I adore her new look too!

Christmas Painting

2010-02-02T18:40:00.000-08:00

Beth and I took the kiddos to Picasso To Go to paint ceramic Christmas ornaments..and after all their hard work we went and chowed down on pizza-the kids ended up getting Chikfila hats too!

Here Comes the Bride.....

2010-02-02T18:28:00.000-08:00

Avayah got a very special Christmas present from her Auntie Beth!

A Beautiful Wedding Dress! And to top it off she got it complete with a viel and bouquet!!

Sidenote*One of Avayah's favorite things is to watch her Mommy & Daddy get married (our wedding video)...and she constantly talks about getting married and having babies! It's cute, but I think her daddy strokes out a little!

She has to wear a princess ring (which she insists is her wedding ring) everyday...she even thinks that Dax (her cousin) is her husband! Her fairytale imagination is beautiful and I'm so glad that she has items to nuture it!

Christmas Eve & Morning

2010-02-02T18:19:00.001-08:00

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas...

2010-02-02T18:12:00.000-08:00

We actually had a white Christmas in Oklahoma...we even got a record 14 inches of snow. It was crazy to say the least...we had 4 foot snow drifts (with one wicked one on our back patio) all around our house too!

Christmas in the Park

2010-02-02T18:03:00.000-08:00

We took the girls to the Chickasha Park to see their light show-which is amazing! We walked around (freezing!) and explored the park-the girls had so much fun, so did Mommy & Daddy too!

Avayah's Dance Christmas Party!

2010-02-02T17:55:00.000-08:00

Avayah's dance class had their Christmas party and all the girlies got to exchange goodies..and even the mommas got to sneak some cookies too!

Curious George Live

2010-02-02T17:47:00.000-08:00

Daddy surprised the girls with Curious George Live tickets!! We rounded up and went and the girlies had an absolute blast!! Addy wanted on the stage so bad too!

Turkey Day~Happy Thanksgiving!

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

My whole family came up to my house for Thanksgiving and we had such a wonderful time!! I love, love family time, so to be able to feed my family and love on them is priceless!

We sure have grown in the last couple of years too-my poor hubby had to buy me a new table! Courtney brought her boyfriend Garic, my lil brother Dane brought his fiance Jenna (their getting married June 24th), and my older brother Johnny and my parents came up too!

New Moon---Eeeek!

2010-02-02T17:13:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm a twihard fan! My sister in law and I got priemere tickets to the midnight showing of New Moon...we waited in line for 6 hours-yes, six hours to get the ultimate seats-which we did!!

During our wait we hung out with a bunch of high school girls and even played numerous games of uno too! Ah, the things we do for Edward!!

Now we only have 5 more months to countdown until Eclipse comes out!!

Halloween~Haunt the Zoo 2009

2010-02-02T15:19:00.000-08:00

This year we made the most of Halloween! We had a Halloween party, Vay got to go to the local High School to trick or treat with her friend Braxton, and then we all trick or treated together on Halloween night too!
Our big event with all of family was Haunt the Zoo! Grandma, Pawpaw, Auntie Tay, Uncle Jubie, Auntie Beth, and Dax were all there. The girls had fun walking through it with their cousin!

Two times Tutu

2010-02-02T15:15:00.000-08:00

One of the girls' friends had a tutu birthday party, so Vay & Addy got to dress up-Vay got to wear her tutu dress and Addy got to wear a big fluffly tutu! They had so much fun!

Girls' Halloween Party

2010-02-02T15:04:00.000-08:00

Avayah and Adalynne along with their besties-Hadley, Jack, Emercyn, and Harper-had a Halloween party at our house! The girlies painted pumpkins, made craft pumpkin faces, and ate yummy snacks!!

Avayah, Adalynne, Emercyn, and Hadley

Disney on Ice

2010-02-02T14:59:00.001-08:00

While Trav and I were in bliss (Colorado) Avayah got to go see Disney on Ice with her Grandma, Auntie Beth, and Dax. All the pictures were adorable, and she loves princesses, so I know it was a hit!