Advent at the Farmer's

Brad & I try to be very intentional on how we raise the kids. To be honest, more often than not we fail miserably. I could make a list a mile long of all the things that we need to improve on as parents. (Please don't ask me to do that 'cause I'll be buried in a mountain of guilt that will take me until this time next year to dig out of). Just trust me when I say that this is not a false humility.

But, during Advent/Christmas we have tried extra, extra hard to keep the focus on Christ. My parents did a great job of teaching us what the real meaning of Christmas is, but we were Baptists and the word advent was not in our vocabulary. When Brad & I started going to our current church (some 10-11 years ago) we began to learn that Advent just means waiting. And when we celebrate advent we are waiting for our Saviour, just like thousands of years ago, the world waited for Him.

I mentioned last year, that our church hosts an Advent festival each year, where families come an make their own advent wreath together as a church. Then, in our homes each night, we light the candle/candles and read a devotion that corresponds with the day. My children just absolutely fell in love with this. So, it became a tradition in our family too (and luckily at church too). I love how lighting the candles helps them count down and anticipate getting to finally light the white candle in the middle on Christmas. And, how our waiting on Christmas represents the world awaiting a Savior so many years ago.

But, I wanted to share something new that we started this year as well. I got the idea from a blog that I read quite a bit, but several of you may already know about it. This year, we started our own Jesse Tree. You start the First Day of Advent, and each night you read a devotion. The devotions are meant to sort of take you through the Old Testament and lead up to or end with The Savior's birth on Christmas Day. Several of the devotions are from Old Testament prophecies predicting Christ's birth. But they all kind of show God's ultimate plan and provision for us through Christ. In fact, the first devotion is about the stump of Jesse (hence the name Jesse Tree), and the first sentence of our particular devotions is, "God has a plan for everything."

The element that I like the most about the Jesse tree concept is that you get a small tree (it can be cut out of felt or paper, or an actual small Christmas tree or whatever) and each day of devotion has a corresponding ornament to represent the lesson of the day. So, for instance, the devotion that teaches about creation has an ornament of the world (or something representative). Again, the kids love this. And, I love that they are getting such a great foundation of the Old Testament and eventually (maybe their too young right now) getting that the events of the Old Testament happened exactly the way they did to provide the world with a Savior.

This was not a hard tradition to start. I used these devotions and used the symbols as guides when looking for ornaments. If I couldn't find one that was exactly like what was listed, I improvised. Or, I actually enlarged what was shown, printed it, cut it out and then colored it. Easy Peasy!! If you google Jesse Tree, you will find other books or resources, but I've been really happy with the content of the devotions that I'm using.

If you are interested, and have an questions, give me a holler and I'll send you some links that will help get you started. Or, start here

But, along these same lines, I must share with you what was said during our Jesse Tree/Advent devotion tonight. It is just too priceless not to.

Our devotion tonight was about Joseph, and how God sent an angel to talk to Joseph in a dream and tell him that Mary was going to have Jesus. At the end of each short devotion it has a 'talk about' section. Tonight's 'talk about' section said, "Name some ways that God speaks to us.". So, I asked the kids to tell us some ways that God speaks to us. Bryce immediately popped in and said this:

"The other night, when Daddy sent me to my room, when I really didn't do anything [mom interjects that he obviously DID do something]..... God told me that I was right."

Now tell me, how are we supposed to argue with God???? I have a smart, smart boy on my hands. But that's not all, when Sara Kate heard this she said (and I quote) "Wait a minute, my brain is telling me something here." - It was like she was processing the fact that what she just heard might help her get out of some things in the future. However, she's pretty good at dodging the bullet, she just blames her brain on everything, especially when she is getting in trouble.

We really do wish you all a very blessed Christmas! Celebrate guys, Christ's coming means Hope for the Nations. Take hold of it today!

Much love to all!

It's better late than Never, and I totally made up for my tardiness.

Brace yourself folks, this is gonna be one heckuva catch up post. So much has gone on since my last post, but I haven't been able to blog about it. The Thanksgiving/Christmas season is one of my favorite times of the year, but it is also, by far the busiest. In case you're wondering, the formula for a non-updated blog is: Busy season + little one with pneumonia and a then a stomach bug + babysitting a toddler. I can think of a few other variables that will give you the same result; but don't worry, I'm throwing in another one that will give us the desired outcome. It is called shear determination.

Ok, enough with the math analogy, I've just exhausted all my knowledge in that department. So let's see, where did I leave off. Oh, yes, just before Sara Kate turned 4. I guess I'll start with her fourth birthday party. It had to be a little smaller this year, because we had it at the Creative Discovery Museum.

Here, Sara Kate is taking her place of honor as her party guests sing Happy Birthday.

And, here she is about to dive in to that yummy birthday cake.

Here's what it looked like before.

After that celebration, it was time for Thanksgiving. I love Thanksgiving. We have so much to be thankful for. But, every year, without fail, I am most thankful for family. One of our Thanksgiving traditions is a massive leaf jumping extravaganza. Every year, G-Daddy blows up a ginormous pile of leaves and the kids go wild jumping in them. This year, I actually got pictures of the leaf pile assembly and Bryce & Sara Kate got in on the action too. I don't know exact measurements, but let me stress, this thing is huge. And the kids LOVE it! Check 'em out.

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Now, on to cookie weekend 2008. Every year my sister and I get to bake cookies with my mom, 2 aunts, and 2 cousins. It is probably ranks up there in the top 5 traditions. We start on a Friday morning, and work until supper time. Then we break and go out to eat and shop. Most of us spend the night at mom's house and we get started early Saturday morning. We always have the most fun, cutting up and being crazy. And, I must say we have a mac-daddy set up. Mom & Dad broke the glass top on their stove a few years ago, and they got a new oven/stove. But the old oven still works (they just can't use the glass top), so daddy always brings it in too. So, we have 2 ovens and 2 mixers. Not to mention, my dad always gets wrangled, wrestled, or sweet talked into helping us. This year he made an appearance in the accounting room, but we mostly used him for his chocolate melting skills and his mixing abilities. We won't mention the great "ball drop of '08) because he is just too valuable of a member to hold that against him. (see daddy, I told you your secret was safe with me). I can't tell you how much I love this weekend. This year we made over 2,716 cookies; all equally divided among the 7 of us. Most people don't believe me when I say we bake that many cookies, so here's proof.






That is my moms entry hallway, lined with bags and tins and tubs of cookies.....and that's not all.

I would have included some pictures of the actual bakers, but I have a large love of life and I fear that said life would be snuffed right out of me if my relatives pulled up the blog and found a picture of themselves [on the internet].

One last thing, the Farmer's have been helping a family friend out by babysitting a few times. And, I would just be remiss if I didn't show you this cut-E-pie. He & SK are kindred spirits in their love of dance

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

I think that pretty much gets us into the Christmas season. I have a couple of thoughts about Advent I want to share, but my compartmentalizing brain wouldn't let me post about advent before catching up Thanksgiving. And, you just can't put two major holidays in the same post......just wouldn't be right. So, when I get the next free minute, be watching for another post soon.

My Budding Ballerina

Last week was parent observation day in Sara Kate's ballet class. She started classes in August, and up until now we had no idea what she was learning. So, it was fun to get to see her in action.

It's funny, I fought ballet classes tooth & nail. I just thought she was more of a gymnastics kind of girl because she is.....um, less than graceful (as the video proves). But, dadgummit, she sure is cute. And, she LOVES it. I was really surprised at how much they can actually teach 3 year olds. The class has learned several ballet terms (don't ask me what they are.........I'm a LOT less than graceful) and at least learned what they look like, if they haven't mastered the skill yet.

This spring, she'll be in her very first recital. We can't wait.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

My favorite part of the video is where she is doing a sashay across the room, and she says hey daddy and then trips twice..........as I said, "delicate flower" but she is stinkin' cute..............I'm thinking that'll take her a long way!

I WON, I WON

Y'all, I NEVER win anything. Never. Ever. But, I am super excited to say that the tide is changing, the leaf has turned over, my luck has changed, there's a new sheriff in town........or any other crazy way of saying: I WON! I actually WON!

A few days ago, I entered into a blog giveaway. I can't tell you how many I've entered since I started reading blogs. In fact, I actually had forgotten all about this. But, anyway, I can not tell you the amount of ridiculous hooping, hollering, and screaming that happened in the Farmer household when I saw my name on Big Mama's blog. This is right up there with having our bible study's contest entry posted on Beth Moore's blog.

So, seeing as how I just WON a gift certificate for some kids clothes........I gotta go shopping!!

One last thing: YIIIPPPPPEEEE (I haven't said that yet.)

A mind of her own

This is where we found Sara Kate the other night when we went to check on her. Sound asleep......on her toybox that GDaddy made her. If ever a child had a mind of their own, she does. You just never know what you're going to find when you check on Sara Kate.

And the Award goes to........

Me!

My friend, Cyndi blessed me with this little blogging award. I must say, I love the title "A perfect blend of friendship" because that truly is what most friendships are..... a blending of sorts, usually on several different levels. The award asks that you answer some questions, so here goes:

1. Do you have the same friends since childhood?

Not to be overly analytical here, but I do have the some of the same friends since childhood and I've also been blessed to acquire many more. But, I do enjoy a relationship with one friend in particular whom I have known since we were 4 or 5. Unfortunately, Misty is not a blogger (or a Facebook-er) so she probably won't see this and can't be tagged. But, we grew up in the same church and our mom's were/are friends. She lives in South Carolina now, and we don't get to see each other often; but everytime we pick up the phone to talk it is like we've never missed a beat. Also, Kellie and I have been friends since 2nd grade. And, she lives in the same city as I do, so we have NO excuse for not seeing each other often; but we do see each other some and we also always pick up where we left off. Much the same, Saundra and I have been friends since Jr. High and we manage to keep in touch as well.

Again, I've picked up several friends along the way that are also near and dear to my heart.


2. What do you value most about your friends?

I think I value our differences the most. In fact, most of my friends are very different than I am. I think that is what makes friendships so fun. Again, the word "blend" is so fitting. Every one brings their own personality to the table and you end up with the exact combination that makes your friendship special.

My friend for life (Brad) couldn't be more of a polar opposite.......but it works for us. Lord knows there could not be 2 people in the family that worry as much as I do......every last one of us would have ulcers. And, just to be fair, there could not be 2 people in the family that are as laid back as Brad, because Ohmyword.........I just about have a heart attack thinking about it.

I think I also value sharing in one another's lives too...... Just plain old laughing when they laugh, and crying when they cry, and the security that comes with knowing there are a handful of people who truly love you and care dearly about you.....warts and all.

3. Are your friends your sounding boards?

In a word...........YES! In fact, I've said to several of my close friends that I am addicted to their opinions. And, its true, if something is on my mind (good or bad or indifferent) I love to see what my friends think about it. In all honesty, I'm usually just trying to confirm that I'm not crazy sometimes. More often than not, Tammy and I joke that if we are speaking a different language than the rest of the world, at least we understand each other.

Bless their hearts, my friends have heard me vent and fume and gush and cry and rejoice and brag and every other emotion there is out there. I don't think I've left one out. And, not only do they still love me, but they wouldn't have it any other way.......(I think). At least, I wouldn't.


4. What is your favorite activity to share with your friends?

This one is easy. The short answer is just being together.......doing anything. I'm usually not very picky....... eating, shopping, talking, you know just about anything......taking our kids on little outings, eating (oh, did I mention that already). But, I do love going on weekend trips with my buddies......whether that is just Brad & I, or us and another couple, or just the girls........either way, it's all good.


And here is where I am supposed to tag 5 other folks. But, because I'm late to the "perfect blend" party and a couple of others have already posted and tagged and so forth.....I'm just going to say, if you'd like to post about your own personal Perfect Blend of Friendships, be my guest......or my tag-ee. I really enjoy reading them.

And, by the way, to all my friends out there (new and old) can I just take a moment to say how much you do mean to me. I love you. I value you. And, y'all make my world a much brighter, happier place. Now, I must go and find my sunglasses :)

So close, yet so far away

So today when I picked Bryce up from school he bounced in the car and immediately said that he had something for Sara Kate. Even before buckling, he had to dig it out of his backpack while she eagerly waited. He pulled out this colorful bracelet and began to show her how to put it on. She was obviously touched by this act of kindness and began telling Bryce how nice it was and how much she loved it. Then, a few minutes later, she said, (in her sweetest, most endearing voice) "Bryc-er (her nickname for him), I love you." To which he replied, "Don't even say that or I'll take it away!"

[Sigh] We were so close to having a sweet, little family moment there....... so close, so very close! Regardless, Bryce does get bonus points for thinking of his sister while picking out prizes from the good behavior box.

The Gumball Tree

First of all, I am so behind on the blog. I have several different things to post, including this sweet nomination from my dear friend, Cyndi; and Bryce's first field trip, Halloween, and some home decorating too. But, I had to share this with you first because it is so funny. It perfectly paints a picture of the personalities of these two little ones. So without further ado, let me tell you about my two little gardeners.

Saturday, the Hildebrand's were over. And, as always, the kids were off playing. Once, when I went to check on them, they were using Sara Kate's play garden equipment to dig in my mulch along the front sidewalk of the house. Obviously, I redirected them explaining that I wasn't a big fan of holes in my mulch. So off they went to find bigger and better things to do. And, that's exactly what they did. Instead they went to the back yard to dig holes in the mulch....because nothing says obedience like moving to a different location to continue the mischief. Anyway, I digress.

A little while later, Brad came to inform me that the kids were planting gumballs. When we went out to check on them, sure enough, Ella & Sara Kate were very meticulously digging holes with the spade, carefully depositing one shiny gumball, covering said gumball with mulch, and finishing off the task by watering them. Apparently, they had been at it for quite some time; and they were playing so well and quietly. It's funny how quiet those two can get when their up to no good. But, we found it so funny that all we could do was take pictures and give them just a few more gumballs to plant.

When I went outside to get a few shots at the scene of the crime, I asked the girls what they were planting, halfway thinking that they were pretending that they were really planting seeds. But, no, not those two.

They promptly replied, "Gumballs."

Naturally, I followed up, "So, what do you think is going to grow?"

"A gumball tree." The girls emphatically explained....which makes me wonder if they thought I was a little on the dumb side for asking such a stupid question.

To which, big brother Bryce promptly and rather sarcastically replied, "Not if you don't water it."




I so wish I had done a video of that conversation. It was truly priceless. I don't know what is more funny: The fact that the girls thought they were planting gumballs that would really sprout into gumball trees, or the fact that Bryce knew it wouldn't grow unless it was watered.


Both Ella and Sara Kate have personalities to beat the band. They are their own little people, following no one. We constantly joke that Sara Kate is walking through life "starring" in her own little musical. And she operates under the assumption that rules are only suggestions, and they are really meant for everyone but her anyway. While Ella is the mischievous dare devil, that at times, makes her mother thank the good Lord she is so darn cute......and she is So. Darn. Cute!! Did I put that accurately Tammy? But, together they are the 1-2 combination of "too cute for words" and "holy cow, what are they up to now."



Anyhow, I thought you'd enjoy some pictures of the little gardeners slaving away over their gumball trees.

By the way, the real crime was that we had no clue that they even had the gumballs, which I find just as funny as the fact that they were planting them. I have no idea how many they planted, but I'd give anything to make a little something grow for them.........maybe they were planting their imaginations!!

As a quick side note, their older siblings were watching all of this take place from the screened in porch, happily coloring some pictures together. And, because they were born 7 weeks apart and because they are now 6 years old, that alone just about makes my heart explode with happiness.

What was I thinking?

Yet again, I have willingly subjected and enrolled my son in a sport that requires that he wear more in protective equipment than he actually weighs. Well, maybe that is a slight exaggeration, but it sure doesn't seem like it.  

Now that he is a yellow belt in Karate, they have begun sparring and using nun chucks. So, again I'm starting to question my sanity for thinking it was a good idea to give a 6 year old a weapon........talk about mass destruction............my poor house will likely never be the same. The only consolation is the nun chucks are foam. If not, I feel certain that at least one person in the family would be seriously injured. As it stands, maybe the foam ones will only leave bruises. So, if you see Sara Kate with a nice shiner; chances are it will be compliments of her brother. Hopefully, the new "nun chucks are only for karate class" rule that was recently passed in the Farmer household will be heeded.

By the way, if you have an itch to witness some chaos, try observing a karate class when the instructor is introducing nun chucks to a class of about 10 or so kids for the first time.    Can you say occupational hazard?  Just watching was worth the price of admission.  Nun chucks were flying in the air and landing on the ground so quick it would make your head spin.  Good times!

One more thing, I purchased all the suggested gear, but judging from the picture it looks to me like there is one very important piece of protection needed...............I'm just sayin'

The Monster Bash

A few weeks ago we decided to join the Children's Museum in Chattanooga. We usually try to become a member of something fun each year to have something to do with the kids. We try to change it up each year. One year it was the zoo, one year it was the aquarium, and this year it was the Creative Discovery Museum. I've heard that their birthday parties are fun & reasonable and with SK's coming up, our decision was easy.

We got lucky and joined at the right time, just before their annual Monster Bash. It's the museum's version of a fall festival. The kids come all dressed up in their costumes and get to do fun activities all through out the museum. They got to see a magic show, paint pumpkins, go through a hay maze, roast marshmallows, pet live snakes and bugs, make crafts, dance, etc. But probably most importantly.....collect candy. So, you get the idea. The best part was that it is free to members.

Here's some pictures of the Monster Bash and also from when we went earlier.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

In the middle of the atrium they had a 'dance party'. It was really cute. Through out the night, they had the kids dancing and doing a conga line and the limbo. Of course, Sara Kate decided to 'cut a rug' with "the burger king." I thought it was worth sharing.

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What a Weekend

This past weekend my sister and nieces came in town for a visit. They haven't been up since July so we had a lot of family fun to accomplish. It worked out perfectly, because it was also Fall Break, so we had a little extra time to cram everything in.



Friday we loaded the kids up and went to the pumpkin patch in Dawsonville. The ride to get there was almost as fun as the patch itself. I won't explain why, there are no words; although I bet mom could think of several. Anyway, after we got finished with the obligatory photo shoot, we picked out pumpkins and took the hay ride. We went back home through Ellijay where we stopped and got some fried apple pies and apple fritters because you can never have too much sugar when you've got 3 kids in the back of a van.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Saturday my sister and the kids took Katie Bell to get her ears pierced. It was all her idea and I tried explaining to her that it would hurt a little bit, but she could not be deterred. I knew in my chicken-ness that I could not take her and my sister jumped at the chance. So, while Brad & I went to a wedding, Shelley went to have metal things pierced through my childs ears. On purpose. Apparently, she did okay. Although there were waterworks despite her promise that there wouldn't be.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Saturday night the kids painted pumpkins and everyone spent the night at Granda & G Daddy's in anticipation of Sunday morning waffles and fried eggs & gravy. Also, on Sunday the kids drove the golf cart, went on a motorcycle ride compliments of Uncle Scott, and made and decorated fall-themed cupcakes.



Sunday night we had a hayride, bonfire, and marshmallow roast.

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Shelley did an awesome post as well and it includes more pictures. If you want to check out her post. Go here. Her's is a lot more creative and funny, but I am weary and the creative juices have run dry this morning.

The Great Debate......

and, NO, I'm not talking about politics here. Instead, I'm referring to one of those silly, long standing, disagreements between family members. Brad & I have positioned ourselves on opposite ends of the poles in regard to this particular matter and there is absolutely no budging either of us. I'd like to say that your responses in the comments would sway one or the other of us, but it's not very likely, as we are both of the stubborn variety.

Brad and I both like to play Spider Solitaire on the computer. Oh yes, we're a very exciting and productive pair. As with most things of this nature, Brad is very good at it. I am mediocre, but I manage to pull out a win fairly often. Brad is so competitive about it that he tracks his statistics. The stats tell you your winning percentage as well as the number of games in your winning or losing streak. When we first started playing, Brad would keep playing games until he won; not unlike when he first started playing sudoku and would keep playing games until he solved the puzzle in "x" amount of minutes. Personally, I think all that is ridiculous. And, it is now very clear where my son gets his competitiveness.

Now, Brad plays one game until he wins. Just this morning, I came downstairs and an un-won game was displayed on the computer. Teasing him, I asked him if he lost. To which he placed his sly grin on his face and confidently said, "I never lose." He gives me a lot of grief if he checks the stats and the winning percentage has dropped, which signifies that I have been playing. And then, he sets out to make it right again by sitting down to play (and win) until the percentage is back up near 100. I think this is borderline OCD if you ask me, but since I have so many OCD qualities in other forms, I shall not point that out........

The source of the debate is the use of the "undo" button. I tend to take after my daddy in this regard, who would NEVER look at the back of the book for his crossword puzzle solutions. He (daddy) claims that that is cheating. So, I use the "undo" button very sparingly. On the other side, Brad has "undone" so many moves at once, that I have asked him why he didn't just restart the same game. The reason? Because apparently, that messes up the statistics. Geez! Remember when I said Brad will play a game until he wins, that is exactly what I mean. He will undo and undo and undo until he figures out where all the cards are, and makes his moves accordingly. How could he be proud of a 100% winning percentage if he attains it like that? But, his argument is that if it were cheating, it wouldn't be allowed. Which, I suppose, is a valid point and is also my argument for using the undo button myself occasionally. The difference is the amount in which we use it. He also says that you should always play to win, and use everything in your legal power to attain victory. And, since the undo option is there legally, he asserts that he is playing the game the way it is meant to be played.

What do y'all think? Is it cheating to use the undo button occasionally? often? Is it best to use it until you win, or just chalk up your losses. We'd love to hear your thoughts and possibly clear up the great debate. But, as I said before, I doubt that either of us can be swayed! But, if you convince Brad that he is cheating maybe I can have bragging rights once in a while! I suppose that I can also undo until the cows come home, but I don't have the patience. Nor do I care what my winning percentage is. I play just to decompress.

What are your funny family debates? It might be fun to hear that we're not the only ones with crazy/funny arguments.......and probably more fun to hear what they are.

Our week

I am SO glad it is Saturday night. Saturday night means the week is almost over. In fact, we just have about 4 hours left of this one; and believe, me I'm very happy to rip these days from the calendar. Our week has been busy and challenging.

On Monday night, Bryce had a football game and got to play against his best friend. Bryce had his best game so far, with 3 solid tackles and 3 more close attempts. Sadly, we still lost, but you can really tell that the players are improving. So that was fun!

**************Before the big game*************

Tuesday, I did our monthly grocery shopping that morning and Bryce had Karate that afternoon. Also, on Tuesday we had the privilege of taking a meal to a couple at church with a newborn. Sara Kate went with me and was allowed to hold cute, little Andy with my help. She thought that was the berries. Unfortunately, on my way home I was the lucky recipient of a ticket. My offense? I wasn't buckled. That. Is. All. You would think that the kind sir would have just given me a warning since I wasn't doing anything else wrong (like speeding) but no......no warnings for me. So, if you live near me, they mean it when they say, "click it or ticket" ......to the tune of $15.

Interestingly enough, Bryce understands my pain all too well. Wednesday he got in trouble at school. Now, it's nothing major or I wouldn't be broadcasting it all over the internet. Each day, in his "take home papers" there is either a happy or sad face to indicate his behavior. Bryce has NEVER had an issue until this week (it was bound to happen sometime). Wednesday, he received his first sad face. But, the funny part of the story occurred when we were discussing what happened. Bryce was very aggravated because apparently the teacher usually gives warnings, and this particular time, she did not. So, Bryce reasoned that really his offense should have just been a warning (makes sense to me). Believe me, I understood very well (see paragraph above). He went on to say, "Mom, even God gives second chances." (tell that to the officer) Okay, so what was I supposed to say to that. Another lesson, learned the hard way I suppose (for both of us).

Thursday, Sara Kate and I did our usual running around which includes ballet and my allergy shots. We also had karate again that afternoon. Bryce received the invitation to test for his yellow belt on Tuesday. And, he was super excited. He has been asking me when he was going to get it. If you think of it, and don't think it's too trivial, please pray for him Tuesday afternoon. But, Thursday was also my anniversary (9 years)! Mom had called and offered to keep the kids so that we could go out (I love it when that happens, thanks mom & dad). So, Brad & I got to try a new restaurant in town. It was fabulous. My favorite was the lobster bisque. It has put Brad and I on the search (again) for the all elusive great bisque recipe (we've tried several).

Friday was just fine. We stayed in and didn't do anything or go anywhere.....well Brad cut the grass. But, we stayed home and did normal "home" stuff, trying to play catch up.

And, today we had a football game and a birthday party and a few other errands to run. One thing on the "to do" list was to get the B-man a haircut. While there, Sara Kate insisted on getting one too. I have been thinking of cutting her hair, but Brad said that he liked it long. However, she is a persistent little thing and she kept going to Brad while we were waiting on Bryce, saying, "Daddy, I want a real haircut." He relented, and we took the plunge and cut her hair into a cute little chin length bob. I think she looks darling, and I hope it will be easier. But, I'll let you judge for yourself.

Her birthday is in November, and she is wanting an American Girl doll. I think maybe we'll get her Kit, because now, they look a lot alike. Admittedly, this is not a great picture, it was taken after bath and before bed, and I didn't have the patience to really exert my photographic skill (or lack thereof.) Here is Kit. Don't you think they look similar?

I know most of this is mundane, and I'm sure most people have clicked away. Why, would anyone want to read a day by day account of my week. They wouldn't of course, But, I just thought our little "life lesson" about following the rules was worth sharing. And, I needed to throw in karate, and football, and new do's. So, there you have it. I'm off to soak in the tub! Wouldn't you?

Proof

I've always wondered about the saying "the proof is in the pudding". I'm sure there is an explanation for it, much like there is a story about brass monkeys and being cold........but that's another post entirely. Anyway, in this case, the proof is not in the pudding it's in the video. I'm about to prove 2 things about my Sara Kate.


1. She couldn't be quiet if her life depended on it.......even when she's sleeping.

2. She can whistle and she doesn't even know it. This is going to be of special significance, since Mrs. Nancy reported that her prayer request tonight at church was to learn to whistle.


Don't believe me? Here's proof:

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

It is not the snoring that I find so significant, she comes from a long line of snore-ers. Apparently, yours truly could saw some logs when I was little, before I had my tonsils removed. (although I don't believe it, and they can't prove it) Bryce also used to snore obnoxiously before his tonsils were removed. And, Brad still snores enough to make me want to lovingly smother him with my pillow.....just kidding........kind of. But, it's the fact that she was whistling so well and so LOUD. We heard it from the other room. Bless her heart y'all....and the heart of those who live with her too.

Oh, and the background noise you hear is Bryce listening to Adventures in Odyssey as he goes to bed. He was in his room of course, but apparently we don't do anything quietly in this house. Yep, they're loud & they're proud!

I'm It

Lest you think that the title is a little vain on my part, rest assured therein lies no conceit. I was tagged to participate in a little meme. These things are always fun! So here goes......

Rules: Each player answers the question themselves. At the end of the post the player then tags 5 people and posts their names, then goes to their blog and leaves them a comment letting them know that they've been tagged and asking them to read your blog. Let the person that tagged you know when you've answered the questions on your blog.

10 years ago I:
1. Was just getting back from studying abroad in the UK
2. Was looking for a job (because I just got back from the UK)
3. Was NOT engaged yet (but I'm not bitter....)
4. was SKINNY
5. had the easy life of living with mom & dad, and NO responsibilities

5 things on today's "to do" list: (What just 5, I can name a million)
1. Go get groceries
2. Take my son to school & pick him up
3. Take a meal to a couple who just had a baby
4. Take my son to Karate
5. Have my quiet time

5 snacks I enjoy:
1. Cereal
2. Chips & Salsa with Cheese Dip
3. Fruit
4. Little Debbies (when I'm not on Weight watchers)
5. Ice cream sandwiches (The Skinny Cow has one that's just 2 points....now thats what I'm talkin' about)

5 things I would do if I were a millionaire:
1. Pay off our house
2. Buy my parent's house from them (they could stay, but that's where I want to retire)
3. Buy a Lake or Beach house
4. Give generously to family and worthy causes/ministries
5. Travel extensively (with & without my kids)

5 places I have lived: (Don't have 5)
1. My parents house
2. For a short while in the UK
3. My house in Ringgold
4. My house here
5.

5 jobs I have had: (I'm really stretching it here)
1. Lowe's
2. small pizza place when I was 14
3. Christmas season at KB toys when I was in high school (don't recommend it)
4. Martin Color-Fi in accounting
5. Nabisco/Kraft in accounting

The rules say I have to tag 5 people.
So I'll tag:
1. Jessica
2. Shelley
3. Tammy How
4. Kellie
5. Elizabeth

Sara Kate's Prayer

So, last night after church, Sara Kate's teacher came up to me and said that Sara Kate shared a request during prayer time. Immediately, my heart warmed. That kind of statement surely makes a mother proud. "What did the sweet dear pray about?", you ask. And I quote, "Pray that mommy won't be mean at me anymore."

NICE! "Never mind," I stated in protest, "that she was acting like the devil himself when I had to be "mean." Um, that being proud part that I mentioned earlier? Yeah, well not so much.

I'll be anxiously awaiting all the "Mother of the Year" nominations!!

No ordinary pancake

I don't watch a whole lot of TV anymore. In fact, about all that I really find myself watching most days is the nightly news and the Food Network. Now, don't get me wrong, I love me some "What not to wear" (I keep thinking my friends will have mercy on me and nominate me for the show.....). I digress, anyway, as far as prime time sitcoms, I just don't have a huge interest.

That being said, one of my favorite shows on the Food Network is Triple D. And for those poor souls (read: people with a life) out there that don't watch TFN; the show is actually called Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. The host, Guy Fieri travels all over the country (although hardly in the southeast.......where's the love, Guy?) going to different places to sample the food and to get a tutorial on how each places "specialty" is cooked. I think the closest place he's been to around here is the Marietta Diner in Marietta, Ga. We've eaten there before and it's pretty good. But the other night, the show was a tour of New Jersey Diners (and if you click the link, you can see when you can actually watch it yourself). And on it, this one particular diner owner made "Cyclops Pancakes" which is a pancake with a fried egg in the middle. Now, to me, that doesn't sound too appetizing. But for those of you who don't know, I married "Mikey, the kid who'll eat anything."

Brad is the Farmer household's go-to guy for pancakes anyway (I can't flip the darn things). He makes them, I decorate them. Indeed, my friends, the perfect picture of teamwork. So tonight, he was making pancakes for supper and I suggested that he try his hand at the Cyclops variety. While he was working on the Cyclops-cake that would make even Guy himself proud, I was decorating the kid's pancakes. I thought you might like to see Brad's take on the Cyclops and then of course, I have to throw in at least one picture with a kid in it. Have I mentioned that we're boring? Just wanted to make sure I had that last point well covered. We're just a frenzy of excitement, our family.

How sad is it that I actually took the time to take a picture of my husband making a pancake? Oh, let's just not talk about it, shall we? Anyway, in case you're wondering (I know you're sitting on the edge of your seat) he liked it so well that he made another one. I didn't try it, and I don't plan too. The whole mixing food concept is blasphemy to me.

This is Bryce-man's pancake. It is upside down so you really can't tell about it. But, it has rediwhip eyebrows and smile with a strawberry nose and M&M eyes. Oh, the talent this stay at home mom possesses. By his face, he looks thrilled with it......and that's all that matters.

Catching Up with all sorts of stuff

I don't exactly know the reason for my lack of posting lately. It is either because we've been incredibly busy or incredibly boring. I'm not sure if you can be both busy and boring. But, if you can, we've mastered it. Pretty pathetic isn't it? Well, despite the fact that this may bore you to tears, I'm going to catch us up. And, I must warn you, this is a hodge podge if ever there were one. As I said, I'm catching us up, so the subject matter will be all over the place.

For starters, I wanted to post this picture in reference to my last post. And, the fact that I am doing so only solidifies the fact that indeed, we are boring and pathetic. Yes, if there were ever a doubt before, there is absolutely no question now. No, ma'am. But, anyhow, I was so excited the other day when I got to make something other than a PB&J for lunch that I thought I would celebrate with a picture. (Never mind that Bryce still got the "old standby".) Pathetic? You bet'cha.

Around Bryce's birthday, Grandma Sheryl got Sara Kate an Easy Bake Oven. She has really enjoyed it; and just about drove us crazy until she baked her masterpiece. Of course, her culinary debut must be captured on film. Here she is with the final product. I have pictures of the entire process, but you pretty much get the idea right? And in case you're not sure, it is a small cake with chocolate icing. She didn't even eat it, but then again, it was more about the baking than the eating. She has a cookie mix too. So stay tuned.

Okay, on the first weekend in September, the neighboring small town up from ours had their annual Civil War Battle Reenactment . Brad took the kids, along with Bryce's good buddy, Mason. I had the privilege of being busy, so I missed out on the fun. But, I think the kids had a good time. Here they are at the reenactment, and here's what they saw:
Above is the infamous tunnel. Also, Brad put red hats on both the boys so that he could keep up with them easily. I just thought it was kind of funny that Brad thought of doing something like that. I'm usually the safety freak..........or was that my idea?

And, last but not least, Bryce had his first football game on Tuesday night. We got clobbered. But, they were so stinkin' cute, it wasn't even funny.......especially, the cheerleaders. Man, Sara Kate is gonna eat that up. I thought it was so cute that the cheerleaders made a sign for the kids to run through, just like in high school. So, here's video of them "busting" through the sign.

Also, this is one my favorite moments of the night. There were several players on the sidelines during the game, and a few of them were more interested in the cheerleaders than the game. That is too funny. But, please, tell me it doesn't start this soon. Please. Please.
And, here is my big guy. He is looking ready and pumped for the big game.

Okay, sorry that was all over the place. But, it is what it is...........and it ain't nothing but a "thang". Right, MB?

As the SNL skit says, "You're Up to Date."

Just a Thought......

I wish I had a quarter for every time I've made one of these.........

Specifically, the PB&J variety.

Either for Dine In

Or Carry-Out

The Best of Both Worlds

I'm hoping Hannah Montana doesn't mind if I borrow her title, but it certainly describes our family. When you have a child of each gender, you honestly do have the best of both worlds. When we found out Bryce was a boy, I was relieved. I honestly could not imagine what I would do with a girl. So when we found out Sara Kate was a girl, I was obviously a little nervous; as I'm not the fru-fru, girly-girl kind of girl. I hated wearing dresses and fixing my hair, and I never took dance.

But, I must admit, I am pleasantly surprised and I'm loving it. I get to do all the cool boy stuff and all the fru-fru girly stuff.


Last week, KatieBell started Ballet. Honestly, I wanted her to take gymnastics, as she is not the most graceful child in the world. Cutest and most adorable? Yes. Graceful? No, not by a long shot. But, nothing would do her but to take ballet. I tried all manner of coercion and she was not having any of it. So, I had to take "dancers 101" from Tammy and figure out all the stuff about tights and leotards and ballet shoes. Once I figured all that out, we excitedly walked through the doors last Thursday. I'm not able to go in to class with her, but I did get some pictures before class began. From what I understand, they will have a parent observation day where we can go in and watch. But, for now, enjoy these shots.


Does she look a teeny bit excited?

Again, keep watching for more pictures and possibly a video.



But, this is the best of both worlds remember? And, I don't know what would classify as being a world away from ballet more than football. Bryce had his first football practice tonight. Oh my word y'all, it's both adorable and nerve wracking, all at once. Have a look at my tough little man out there on the grid iron.



Those boys look absolutely lost in all of that gear. But they love it. And, finally, enjoy some actual practice footage.

All at Once

Well, as most of you know, Mr. B started school earlier this month. He has done great and he seems to really like it a lot. Mom did okay until they moved Bryce's teacher and his class was separated out. When I got that news, I cried like a baby. I don't really know why, because when I was trying to delicately explain this new development to Bryce, he responded, "okay." And later, during devotions, when asked, "what made you glad today?" He responded, "that I get to go to Mrs. B's class." So, clearly, he took the news well.

As if that is not enough to get adjusted to, he also turns 6 this month (on 8/28). There is nothing that makes you feel like you're losing your baby like the 1-2 punch of starting school and turning 6. This, coupled with the fact that we signed him up to play football this fall, has done me in. He came home the other night from getting his uniform, and he was beaming from ear to ear; all decked out in pads from hither to yon. Can I just say there is something horribly wrong with a sport that requires you to wear more than your weight in protective gear? Bryce is tough as cobb and I don't think I'm all that over protective, but football is going to be a little difficult to watch.

Here are a few pictures from his birthday party Saturday night.




And, the final blow to this momma's heart is what he proudly came home from school with yesterday...............his tooth. His, FIRST missing tooth, and I wasn't there to witness or video. It had been loose for a few days, and GDaddy had even tried to pull it with string and, um.....pliers (he is GDaddy after all), but no such luck. Apparently, yesterday at lunch it just came out. Luckily, his teacher saved it for him so that he could bring it home. And, he had fun surprising daddy when Brad got home. But, that little smile of his is altered forever. It sure is cute though.


Had these things happened singularly, I think I would be fairly cool about the whole thing. But, wow, with them happening all at once this month it seems like he is just growing up. No wonder my chest has felt tight for the last 2 weeks. Please don't get me wrong, I'm tickled pink that he is loving school and I'm proud as punch that he is doing so well and all, but it does tug at my heart stings a tad. And, just to prove my point, I'm including this picure too.......

Hello???? Need, I say more.......he didn't even have teeth in this picture.

Bryce, Mom and Dad are so very proud of you and we love you so very much!!