the Collins

2011-12-18T11:27:00.000-06:00

Fun in the Leaves

2011-12-17T11:21:00.003-06:00

Hudson's Fall Festival

Hudson's school, Central Weekday School, has a Fall Festival every year with games, prizes, a hayride, and a snack. Hudson and I had a lot of fun!

2011-12-16T09:08:00.001-06:00

Halloween Fun!

I can say that we did get a lot of use out of our Halloween costumes this year. My fairy, Rosella (from Tinkerbell) and my Decatur Fire and Rescue Fire Chief were ready for the fun to begin. The first time to wear their costumes was when we went to the Boo-tanical Gardens in Huntsville.

at the Botanical Gardens with the McRees

games

a small bee landed on the flower while I was taking a picture

what a great day!

trunk-or-treating at church

fishing for something good

the fireman and bumble bee

Halloween at Abby's school

Hudson's Halloween party

YUMMY!

we blocked off the street in our neighborhood for the annual Halloween party

Something must be really funny

Cousins Courltyn and Carrigan

waiting on a tractor ride

Wallace and Hudson

What a great group of kids!

Abby practicing her baseball skills with a pinata

Hudson practicing his soccer skills

trick-or-treating at our house

off to the neighbors to trick-or-treat

2011-12-15T08:33:00.003-06:00

Father and Son

2011-11-06T11:44:00.002-06:00

Sonshine Singers

Abby graduated from the Cherub choir to the Sonshine Singers. They had their first performance in church and everyone sang and did the hand motions.

2011-11-01T12:24:00.002-05:00

Decatur High School Homecoming Parade

2011-10-18T20:12:00.003-05:00

I have launched my website! It has been an on and off again project between my other projects but it is live. I really enjoy what I do and love workng with businesses in the community. I have launched a few websites already and have some in the works. I also create email newsletters for businesses to send to customers/clients to update them on the latest news. There is a alot more on my website so here it is: www.snapdesignweb.com

2011-10-11T16:26:00.004-05:00

Labor Day

Abby and I had a beach trip planned with my friend Gena and her family but then a tropical storm was coming through so we went to Nashville instead where she lives. We did not miss out on any fun. We swam and cooked out one day and went to the lake another day to ride the wave runner. Abby and Gena's daughter Kessler had so much fun together. Even though we did not get to go to the beach, we still had a great Labor Day with friends!

2011-09-30T14:09:00.003-05:00

Teddy Bear T-shirt Day

The kindergarten classes all painted teddy bear t-shirts. They turned out so cute. Then they all wore their shirts and brought a teddy bear. All the classes ended the day with a teddy bear parade.

2011-09-04T18:18:00.004-05:00

Hudson's First Day in His 2 Year Old Class

We started the morning like this:then Daddy was there to step in to get Hudson to smile
How sweet is this boy!!!

getting a little more excited

then really excited

We arrived at school, and he was timid at first. He enjoyed delivering the mail.

Then a few friends showed up

Then he played cars

Then Mommy said she had to go, and he was not very happy

But after a little crying, he had a "perfect" (that's the word both teachers used) day.

Here are some cute decorations in his classroom:

He was the weather helper

by the time I took this picture right outside his classroom door, he had stopped crying!

2011-08-28T17:06:00.004-05:00

"We" survived the first 2 weeks of Kindergarten!

I say "we" because we all had some adjustments to get used to. Abby had to learn to go to bed earlier, pick out her clothes the night before (which is a huge challenge now), wake up early in time to get ready and eat breakfast, get to school on time, stay the whole day, and come home and play, eat dinner and start all over again. Hudson had to learn to be without Abby for the first time on a daily basis, say good-bye to her in the morning and wondering why he isn't going too, and have to be woken up from his nap to sit in a carpool line to pick up Abby. Daddy gets the privledge of dropping Abby off at school every morning. Even though it's not very far away, they still get to chat in the mornings. The first few mornings Daddy could walk her to the door but no holding hands, but now it's watch Abby walk down the hall and maybe get a wave from her as she walks in (how do they learn so early???). And Mommy...my baby girl is now in Kindergarten. All this summer it was sinking in day by day but never really fully sank in until she had her first day. Since Abby has always loved school and was so excited and ready for Kindergarten, I wasn't too upset about her going off to school. I knew she was going to have so much fun and learn a lot of new and exciting things. My adjustments have been the normal adjustments for a mom, but seeing Abby smile everyday after school and excited about her friends, math class,lunch, recess, PE,and "homework" makes my heart smile too.

Abby and her new backpack and lunch box

Hudson's reaction

family picture before we walk inside

put her backpack and lunch box away and sat in her seat

a little busy in the classroom

walking out after her first day

Hudson's reaction

Luch Blythe and Abby

in front of the Eastwood sign

2011-08-22T10:29:00.004-05:00

Meet Your Teacher Day

Abby is starting Kindergarten this year. She is very excited to be going to Eastwood. She found out her teacher was Mrs. Johnson. We love her already. The Friday before school started, she went to meet Mrs. Johnson and take her school supplies. Abby has had her school supplies packed in her new book bag for weeks. We put all her supplies in the appropriate places and she met her teacher and played a little before we left. She has some friends in her class including many from CWS: Michael and Ana Michelle Vandiver, Brady Mann, and Reeves Hardin. A new friend, Lucy Blythe, is in her class. Her grandparents live right across the street from us so we see her often. A new chapter has started, and we look forward to an exciting year.

Lucy Blythe and Abby

Mrs Johnson and Abby

Abby asking Mrs. Johnson questions

2011-08-22T10:27:00.000-05:00

All the Collins Cousins

2011-08-20T15:21:00.003-05:00

DHS Cheerleading Camp

Abby went to the Decatur High School Cheerleading Camp. There were a ton of girls there from 3 years to 5th grade. The DHS cheerleaders were so patient when they taught the girls the cheers. They also taught them a dance. Abby had alot of fun at the camp and can't wait to go back next year!

2011-08-19T16:41:00.006-05:00

4th of July FUN

We had a neighborhood cookout to begin the 4th of July festivities. The adults had a chance to hang out and the kids had fun playing all around. Then, Mr. Steve brought out fireworks and sparklers. We watched from our driveway as he put on his fireworks show. Next, all the kids got to hold and wave a sparkler. We were all tired after a fun night

On the afternoon of the 4th, our down the street neighbor hosts a parade and party for the whole neighborhood. Everyone brings a dessert and dresses for the occasion. You can ride whatever vehicle you wish to ride on in the parade. After the parade around the neighborhood, we eat desserts, including homemade ice cream. What a way to celebrate our country!

yummy popcicles

Hudson was a little tired

watching the fireworks

Hudson got his second wind

ready for the parade

a big crowd

all lined up

enjoying snacks

time for the tractor ride

Happy 4th!

2011-08-15T08:33:00.002-05:00

Art Camp

Abby went to Art camp this summer. The theme was "All things bright and beautiful." She not only created art, but also leaned about 5 different artist and the way they created art. She had a lot of fun because she LOVES painting, gluing, cutting, drawing, and coloring. She made some fantastic art pieces. She definitely did not get her artistic ability from me!

Mattie was in her class

Abby receiving her certificate

2011-08-14T12:32:00.009-05:00

The Flower Girl and The Ring Bearer

At the end of June, Brennan (my first cousin once removed) got married to a wonderful man named Jeremy. I have to say that they are the bravest bride and groom I've ever known. Why, you ask? They asked 9 boys and girls, 5 and under, to be in their wedding. If that is not brave, I don't know what is. Of course I was more nervous about Hudson than Abby because Abby was thrilled about walking down the aisle with flowers in her hair.

Hudson, my 2 year old son, who doesn't sit still and doesn't take direction well was another story. I think Honey was more nervous than I was though. She had Hudson practice several times walking with a pillow. He seemed to like it because he even wanted to sleep with it several nights. Then I had him practice in some dress shoes because he had never worn them before. Then came the wedding weekend when I found out that Hudson would not be carrying a pillow and he would walk down the aisle barefoot. Well, he made the adjustment fine.

To sum up, the 6 oldest of the 9 made it down the aisle. Abby and Hudson along with Libby and Knox and Virginia and Henry(more first cousins once removed).

I helped host the bridesmaid luncheon which was actually and manicure party for the wedding party. It was so much fun!

I always love rehearsal dinners because you get to know the other person in the wedding better. Brent and I have loved Jeremy from the beginning just by spending many times at the lake with him. But then to hear his friends say such great and wonderful things about him, makes me even happier is is now a part of our family.

The wedding was beautiful! Beautiful bride, handsome groom, and a good lookin wedding party. The mother of the bride was stunning and the father of the groom was handsome...and gained another man in the house! The reception was a PARTY with great food and an awesome band. All the guest got to dress up in a photo booth and take pictures, one to keep and one to put in a book for the bride and groom. Then leave it to my creative cousin Bev to think of the coolest idea...both Brennan and Jeremy's entire family came to the dance floor with sunglasses (provided by Bev) and danced to We are Family. What a memory.

Then we sent the bride and groom off very late and Abby and Hudson were right there throwing petals at them as they got into their car. What a special time with family and I am so honored Abby and Hudson were a part of it. We love you Brennan and Jeremy!!!

Abby and Brennan at the Bridesmaid luncheon

Hostesses and Brennan(Merrill, Kelly, Rolana, Brennan, me, Sarah, Brittany)

manicures for the flowergirls

Abby tired on on of the bridesmaid's sunglasses

the bride and flowergirls

yummy cupcakes

Kelly and me (not too many pictures of just us 2)

me, Libby, Kelly, and Abby

about to start the rehearsal

practice makes (almost) perfect

the big day!

Hudson and Knox

angels!!!

My little Hudson

Our Family

Abby

Abby and Hudson

snack time

Henry, Hudson, and Knox up to no good

no good at all

Abby's hair

No telling what question Abby asked Brennan

8 of the 9 flower girls and ring bearers and 1 program attendant with Brennan and Jeremy

The Bourland/Wade Family

Virginia and Abby dancing

The Bourland/Collins Family...and Hugh

Nana dancing in her shades

Honey and Pop Pop with their boys

groom and brideSmiles:)

2011-08-13T09:48:00.003-05:00

Our Church's Family Picnic

Following the conclusion of VBS, Central Methodist has a huge potluck picnic at Point Mallard and then we walk over to the waterpark for hours of fun. This year was special because some of our family have been visiting our church since they moved back. Kirk, Tara, Courtlyn and Carrigan joined us at VBS and the picnic. All the children sang their VBS songs at the end of the picnic. Since Brent plays in the 8:30 Worship band, he also sang for the picnic with the band. After we were stuffed, we walked over to play at the waterpark. We all had so much fun!

2011-08-13T09:40:00.003-05:00

Abby's Birthday

On Abby's birthday, June 12 (yes, that long ago), she woke up and opened presents from us. After opening, she was ready to go to school with a new backpack and lunch box. Hudson gave her Tangled. We had fun celebrating in the morning but then we went to Abby's favorite restaurant, Mi Hacienda, for dinner. We had a big crowd with Nana, Kirk, Tara, Courtlyn, and Carrigan joining us. All the waiters came to sing Happy birthday to Abby. What a wonderful 5th birthday!!!

2011-06-27T17:23:00.005-05:00

Day 4 - Princess Tea Party

We ended the exciting and busy weekend with a small birthday party for Abby. She invited a few school friends and neighborhood friends along with three cousins that made the trip to Decatur. Everyone dressed in their princess best. They decorated crowns and purses, drank tea out of tea cups, hit the pinata, and ate cupcakes. I attempted to make the cupcakes and icing and they turned out pretty tasty. Abby had so much fun! Now that she is 5, she says she can do so many more things than when she was 4. Happy Birthday Abby!

we woke Hudson up from his nap so he could help Abby blow out her candle

2011-06-13T13:42:00.007-05:00

Abby's Dance Recital...Day 3-The Recital

Abby's recital was at the Princess Theatre in Decatur. It's a great venue for a recital. When we arrived, I took her to the room where all the dancers were getting ready. There are dancers from 4 years old to seniors in high school, so there were a lot of dancers. She was very excited about dancing on stage. She smiled and danced beautifully. Her ballet dance was in the first act and her tap dance was in the second act. After all the dances, they had a curtain call where everyone went back on stage for the last bow. We are so proud of Abby!

Courtlyn and Libby came to watch Abby

proud parents

proud grandparents

2011-06-09T15:16:00.006-05:00

Abby's Dance Recital...Day 2-Dress Rehearsal

On Friday, Abby had her dress rehearsal. So that means I have to put her hair in a bun, apply make-up and remember all her gear...again. This time I didn't leave anyting at home. Abby was very excited to practice on stage. We went to the Princess Theatre for the American Girl Fashion Show and she remembered me telling her that this was where she would have her dance recital. During the rehearsal, I took ALOT of pictures becasue I didn't know how good of pictures I would get the next night. So I stood at the front of the stage and shot away.

Her ballet dance was to "When You Wish Upon a Star"

Her Tap dance was to "Lucky Ladybug"

2011-06-09T14:57:00.003-05:00

Abby's Dance Recital...Day 1-Pictures

We had a very busy 4 days. On Thursday, Abby had her dance pictures. She had to wear a high bun, a little make-up, and have her picture taken in 2 costumes. Well, if you know me at all, you know that I was never a dancer, always into sports, so this whole dance recital business is all new to me. Let's start with the hair...a high bun...how in the world do you get Abby's thin hair to stay in a bun. The main advice I recieved was hair gel and hair spray. Luckily, when Abby went to disney world, the professionals put her hair up in a tight bun. Since she wore her Ariel costume home and her hair still in a bun, I took notes on how they got it to stay. Well, I think it turned out pretty well, especially for my first time! Now the make-up, Abby's dream came true. She could now wear make-up outside the house. I put on a little powder, blush, eye shadow, mascera, and lip gloss. Not too much...but enough to be able to tell she had something on. Then I had to pack all her gear...tap shoes, ballet shoes, pink tights, hair accessories, outfits, etc. I knew when I got there, I was missing something. Then it hit me...her second costume! I left Abby there in her first costume with a friend and loaded Hudson up and hurried back to get her second costume. I was back in time for her second round of pictures! Remember...this is only day one. Day two is the dress rehearsal.

2011-06-07T17:52:00.003-05:00

Gone Fishing

Our children's director at church intvited the children and families to her farm to go fishing. We bought all the gear for Abby and Hudson including a Barbie fishing pole, a Spiderman fishing pole, and a stocked tackle box. It was a hot and pretty day. I have always loved fishing so it was fun to take them out and teach them how to fish. Hudson caught his first fish! Abby did not catch a fish but when we went to Pickwick Lake over Memorial Day weekend, she wanted to fish again and she caught her first fish there. It looks like there are many fishing trips ahead for this family!

Hudson and I fishing

Abby was very patient
Hudson's first fish!

Abby loves fishing

very determined

we tried a lot of different fishing spots

Abby and Ana Michelle

2011-06-06T15:38:00.003-05:00

Last Day of School

Abby and Hudson finished the school year with a party. They both had a great year. Hudson started out not liking the drop off time of the day, but as the year progressed, he was better about going into his classroom by himself without clinging to me (well, at least the last few weeks of school he didn't cry for me!) Another fantastic year at Central Weekday School! Ms. Annah and Ms. Tammy

Ms. Sharon and Ms. Suzanne

2011-06-05T21:59:00.002-05:00

Abby's Preschool Graduation

Abby graduated from preschool. And that means she is going to kindergarten this fall. She is so excited! She has been attending Central Weekday School since she was 14 months old. She has had the best teachers. One of the great things about CWS is that they teach about Jesus. They have chapel every week and learn bible stories and memorize verses. I'm definitely going to miss that aspect of school. She has met some great friends and I have met some great moms! She is sure going to miss going to CWS but the good thing is, Hudson is going in the summer so she will be able to see some of her teachers again.

Kathy Littrell, CWS Director, said a few things about each student. Abby said when she grows up she wants to be a nurse and a mom. Her favorite thing about school was bringing toys at Christmas time for children who didn't have any.
She received her diploma
Ms Sharon and Ms. Suzanne's 4 year old class

Gracie and Abby

Michael, Ana Michelle, and Abby

Mrs. Donna, Abby's adopted grandmother who keeps her and Hudson every Wednesday afternoon, came to see her graduate

We are so proud of Abby

We celebrated at The Brick for lunch

2011-06-04T09:31:00.002-05:00

CWS Spring Program

Abby and Hudson had their end of the year spring musical at their school. Abby is a pro by now becasue she has been performing for 3 years. This was Hudson's first year. He was ready for his shining moment. Hudson's class sang first and Hudson did most of the motions. He was excited to perform on stage. When Abby got on stage, she put her rock star face on and sang all her songs very well. She sang loudly and knew all the words. We were so proud of both of them!!!

2011-05-20T13:54:00.003-05:00

Mother's Day

My Mother's Day was complete when my two precious children wished me a Happy Mother's Day. They spent a lot of time on their cards and drawings for me...and even smiled for some pictures. I am one lucky mama!

2011-05-19T08:27:00.003-05:00

Kindergarten Registration

The day has come where we registered Abby for kindergarten. She is so excited about kindergarten even though she really doesn't exactly know what she is excited about. Abby has always loved school. Since she was 14 months old, she rarely cried when I dropped her off at preschool and that was a good thing. I know she missed me but I was so thankful she went right in her classroom and started playing. We went to register her for the fall and meet all the kindergarten teachers at Eastwood. They were all very nice and attentive to the children. This fall will be an adjustment but we are excited about new adventures and experiences to come.

one excited girl

one sad boy who loves his sister and doesn't like when she leaves

2011-05-12T12:43:00.000-05:00

Spring Break Memories

It's been a while since spring break, but we had a lot of fun. We had a wedding at the end of the week in Memphis so we headed down there on Wednesday night so we could spend some of our break there. Thursday, all 4 of us had a day of fun. First, we went to a new park in Shelby farms. This park is the first of its kind. There were different sections filled with slides, swings, water features, and more but it wasn't your ordinary playground equipment. Next, we picked our own strawberries. Then we went to lunch at Mellow Mushroom followed by a quick trip to the Toy Maker. It was a beautiful day to spend with the family. On Friday, it rained so we decided to meet Kelly, Libby, and Knox at a mall where there is a play area, carousel, and food. On Saturday, Abby, Hudson, and I met my friend Finy and her boys at Davis Kidd where they played and then ate lunch. Saturday night, Honey, Pop Pop, Brent, and I went to the wedding while my cousin Audrey and her husband Ross kept Abby and Hudson. On the way home on Sunday, we stopped by and ate lunch with Brooks, Sherrie, Judson, Lila, and Georgia. So, we had a jam packed fun spring break!!

one of the few pictures of the 2 of us

at the new playground

on your way into Shelby farms, there are many buffalo...you can even adopt one

strawberry pickin'

yummy mellow mushroom

at the mall

playing with walker and jack

2011-05-09T20:28:00.003-05:00

Easter Sunday...He is Risen!

Easter Sunday is one of my favorite days. It's full of hope and joy because Jesus is alive. The tomb is empty. I try to remember great stories, lessons, and sayings from the Sunday sermon, but of course, I can't remember them all. But, I do remember my former preacher, Maxie Dunnam say numerous times "It's Friday, but Sunday's a comin'."

After church, we took some pictures in our neighbor's yard in front of a magnolia tree. Abby was camera ready but Hudson was less than cooperative.

2011-05-06T16:04:00.004-05:00

Easter Egg Hunts

The day before Easter, we had several Easter egg hunts. Actually, Abby went to 3 and Hudson went to 2. The first one was our church's hunt. Abby was ready for the hunt. They visited with the Easter Bunny and introduced their cousins, Courtlyn and Carrigan, to their friends. It was such a pretty day and a great time to hunt some eggs. Abby found 41 eggs which was the most in her age division. She won a prize and was very excited about it. Hudson found nine and was more interested in opening them when he found them than gathering as many as he could. Next, Abby went to Nana's church's hunt with Daddy while I stayed with Hudson while he took a nap. Abby had a lot of fun there too. Finally, we went to the country club for the last hunt. Abby and Hudson hunted again and had so much fun. Abby was busy socializing and Hudson just ran everywhere! Once we finished, we topped off the day with dinner at Mi Hacienda, our favorite mexican restaurant.

started the morning running

carrigan, abby, and courtlyn

and she's off...

first hunt...check!

family picture

cute cousins

most eggs prize winner

snack time

at the country club

our competitive daughter

ended the day running

2011-04-28T20:08:00.005-05:00

April 27, 2011

We are all safe and sound! We were very fortunate yesterday during several tornado warnings. The worse thing that happend is that we lost power. That is minimal compared to many others around North AL and surrounding areas. Right now, Huntsville and Decatur are without power and we don't have an estimate when it will come back on. We are praying for all those who have been affected by the storm yesterday. About a mile or 2 from Brent's work, I took these pictures (in our moving car so that are not the best quality).

this is a car - front end under water

This was Sonny's BBQ where Brent went for lunch alot

2011-04-23T14:48:00.005-05:00

Also at the Botanical Gardens...

a butterfly house with beautiful butterflies
one of many tree houses

turtles that lived in the butterfly house

this man looked so peaceful...even with kids running from tree house to tree house

this sign speaks for itself

this was in the children's play area
all around were beautiful flowers

this is my kind of herb (they have a great herb garden)

...and a flying monkey

2011-04-21T16:46:00.005-05:00

Botanical Gardens

Our spring break was last week, so made plans with the McRees to go to the Botanical Gardens in Huntsville. Hudson was already in Memphis to have some Honey and Pop Pop time, so it was just us girls. The girls loved the tree houses. We saw a lot of ducks, turtles, butterflies, and flowers. They had beautiful flowers everywhere. We spent the entire morning walking around to see everything and then had a picnic. We enjoyed our time so much, we bought a year pass for our family. We can't wait to go back!

At the Somewhere over the rainbow tree house... "is there really a witch under there"

we need one of these

making some music

petting the turtle

silly faces!

2011-04-21T12:58:00.003-05:00

Spring is Here and so is the Ice Cream Man

My children can hear the lovely tune (can you sense the sarcasm) of the ice cream man from miles away. He manages to drive by our house right before dinner. One Sunday before Pop Pop left, he treated Abby and Hudson to their choice of ice cream from the ice cream man. They both chose Spiderman. They sure did enjoy their Spiderman ice cream but luckily I have a great stain remover!

2011-04-06T19:45:00.003-05:00

Singing for a Good Cause

The 2 4-year-old classes at Abby's school sang at the Morgan County Courthouse to suppor a local agancy PACT (Parents and Children Together). They kicked off child abuse prevention month with some speakers and a few songs from Central Weekday School's 4-year-old classes.

This is Abby's classAbby, Michael, Aubry, and Crawford singing "If I were a Butterfly"

both classes

Hudson danced along with the music

hot dogs and chips for lunch after singing their songs

2011-03-27T12:05:00.004-05:00

American Girl Fashion Show

Abby got a My American Girl doll for Christmas from Honey and Pop Pop. She has brown hair and blue eyes and named Abby. Junior League of Morgan County hosts the American Girl Fashion Show to raise money for the Carnegie Visual Arts Center in Decatur. Since 3 of her cousins also have American Girl dolls, they also came to the fashion show. Abby asked several questions about fashion shows and then knew she wanted to be on stage as a model. During intermission, any girl had the opportunity to be a VIP and be introduced with their American Girl doll. Abby was so excited about being on stage (I'm not sure where she gets that from!).

Before the fashion show, KK, Libby, Abby, and I went on a girls morning out. The girls got their nails done, then we ate ate Panera Bread, then do-it-yourself yogurt for dessert. Then off to the show...

All 6 of us Abby picked a bright pink polish drying their nails

yummy lunch

Carrigan, Courtlyn, Abby, and Libby

waiting for the show to start

Gracie and Abby

in line for the VIP with Virginia, Caroline, Abby, Libby, and Courtlyn

our runway models

a natural!

2011-03-26T20:25:00.002-05:00

Princess Abby

Princess Abby traveled home to Decatur in her royal attire. I'm sure the flight attendant was not happy to see Abby and Libby's seats on the airplane because it was filled with fairy dust...glitter. Hudson and Abby were so excited to see eachother. Abby went with me to pick him up from school and he did not recognize her at first. But when he did, they hugged for a long time. When we arrived home, Abby gave presents to everyone. She gave hudson a blue Mickey Mouse ball and a shirt, she gave Daddy Mickey Mouse golf balls, and she gave me a beautiful blue scarf. She sure does know how to pick presents! We are very glad that Princess Abby had a magical time at the happiest place on earth.

2011-03-25T08:10:00.012-05:00

A Magical Vacation

Honey and Pop Pop invited Abby and Libby to the most magical place on earth. The girls have heard about Disney World but couldn't wrap their minds around what kind of place it really was. All 4 hopped on an airplane and flew to Orlando to visit Mickey and friends. Honey planned very exciting excursions including parades, breakfast with princesses and Mickey and friends, musicals, rides, and the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. They went nonstop from morning until night to fit everything in. We would talk to Abby and she couldn't stop talking about all she had done that day. She couldn't believe she had met the real princesses. Pop Pop was right in the mix of everything too. Thanks to him, we have some pictures from the trip!

when the beast appeared, Libby and Abby had two different reactions

they loved sharing a bed

parades galore!

breakfast with the princesses

dumbo ride

night parade

they got a lot of autographs

each of them got to choose one gift...abby chose a rolling suitcase and libby chose a minnie mouse hat

the girls loved to go swimming raise your hand if you are a princess

abby kept a straight face the entire time she was getting her hair and make-up done

Libby chose the mermaid Ariel dress accessorised by and updo and extensions

Abby chose the princess Ariel dress and an updo

one last goodbye hug

2011-03-02T21:15:00.005-06:00

Valentine's Day

We had a great Valentine's Day filled with parties, candy, and friends!

2011-02-10T09:01:00.006-06:00

Hudson is 2

Hudson had a great birthday week last week. He took birthday snacks to school on Wednesday, Then on his birthday on Thursday, we played all morning and went to meet Daddy at Chick-fil-A for lunch and then opened presents that night. Friday, Honey and Pop Pop came in from Memphis for his party on Saturday. His party was a subtle Mickey Mouse theme and had all his friends and Abby's friends over for a brunch filled with cinnamon rolls, fruit, muffins, sister shuberts, and of course, Mickey Mouse shaped pancakes. Everyone had a lot of fun. I still can't believe Hudson is 2.

Hudson loves: his big sister, any type of ball, the color blue, trains, talking a lot, eating snacks, saying "no," painting, wearing auburn attire, riding his fire truck, talking on the phone, and rocking.

Hudson doesn't love: being dropped off at school...he still screams every time I leave him even though he has been in the same room with the same teachers since last June. Maybe one day I can have a tearless departure.

raise your hand if you are twoour 2 year old
packing treat bags for the party (mickey mouse ice cubes and mickey mouse silly bands)

Abby couldn't wait to "help" open presents

He didn't need much help

he loved his new uniform and helmet

since we had a brunch and Hudson loves donut holes, I attempted to make a mickey mouse donut cake

Abby's friends and cousins

a lot of friends

me and the birthday boy

blowing out his candle...he practiced a lot

this would be a great time to be able to read minds

opening presents from party

big sister

Pop Pop fingerpainting with Abby and Hudson

FUN!

What a week!

2011-02-10T08:31:00.001-06:00

January Snow

2011-02-06T14:36:00.007-06:00

Christmas wasn't that long ago...

We headed to Memphis to spend Christmas at Honey and Pop Pop's house. Honey decorates the house like Candyland so it's always fun to see the house transformed at Christmas time. Then we spend time with the Collins. It's always a lot of fun, food, and presents. Abby and Hudson couldn't wait to start the Christmas festivities.

-We went to Pop Pop's office for his annual Christmas party

-had the whole Bourland family over for Christmas Eve for heavy appetizers and a competitive game of dirty Santa gift card edition

-woke up Christmas morning to see what Santa had brought

-Blake, KK, Libby, and Knoxman came over to exchange presents and eat dinner

-drove back to Decatur to find at least 4 inches of snow

-spent the 26th and 27th with the Collins clan

-back to our house to soak it all in

Abby and Hudson love decorating Jesus' birthday cake
our own little elfPop Pop with elf and reindeer

all the younger cousins exchange gifts

leaving Santa a piece of Jesus' cake

Christmas morning was filled with all sorts of goodies

speedracer

princess Abby

a few more presents to open

Abby and Libby with their new American girl dolls...can you see the resemblance?

rockstar

the Knoxman

"Abby", Abby's American girl, has a bed to sleep in (I think this is only the tip of the iceberg for "Abby")

Brent and I had Blake and Kelly's names for stockings and they LOVED their new Snuggies!

Snow Day!

ready or not...

Daddy teaching how to build a snowman

snow angel

making the first big snowball for the snowman

Hudson helped too

Daddy thought it would be a good idea to drag Abby and Hudson in a pink tub...Mommy didn't agree

the snowman!

family time at Nana and Papa's

with 9 grandchildren, you know there was a lot of unwrapping to do

Abby loves her new Barbie

Hudson thought he was a present

Merry Christmas from the Collins (a little late)

2011-01-21T16:17:00.003-06:00

One of our trips to see Santa

We had breakfast with Santa at Daddy's Golf Club (that's what Abby calls it...and Hudson points to the golf course and says Daddy...golf...ball). Abby was ready to tell Santa her three things: make up, fingernail polish, and a camera. Her other urgent thing was to make sure Santa knew where her Honey lived. And he did! Hudson was hesitant but on our way out he wondered what Santa had in his bag...candy.

2011-01-21T16:12:00.002-06:00

School Christmas Parties

Hudson is not much of a sweet eater but he sure loved that icingdefinitely loved his grapes

part of his class

all smiles at her party

her class

2011-01-21T16:02:00.002-06:00

Abby the Dancer

Abby likes to do many things. One thing she really enjoys is her dance class. She learns ballet and tap. She loves to come home and perform for Daddy, Hudson, and me. In December, she had a mini-recital to show the parents what they have been working on the past few months. Abby has informed me that at the end of the year recital, she gets to wear make up and lip gloss. She danced very well and followed her teacher's instructions.

2011-01-03T14:28:00.002-06:00

Gala

Brent and I got dressed up again this year for the Decatur General Foundation Gala. One of my favorite bands, Super T, played. We had a lot of fun eating and dancing with friends.

2010-12-30T20:14:00.005-06:00

Thanksgiving pictures I forgot to post...

We had Thanksgiving at our new house. Talk about stress..hosting a major holiday for the family for the first time with a new house that a week before was not ready for visitors. Brent and I worked hard and got the house looking good by Thanksgiving. I know my family would not have noticed all the things I wanted to do, but it sure made us work hard to accomplish it.

my brother-in-law Brooks came up with the 1st Annual Collins Turkey Trot where we all ran a 5K before lunch

I ran with the double jogger...not the easiest thing to do

my little Hudson

prep work

the kids ate in the playroom Maw

Papa and Hudson played catch, Hudson's favorite game

2010-12-15T18:01:00.000-06:00

Indoor Soccer

Abby is playing indoor soccer at our church. She is on a U6 (under 6) team with some of her friends. They have had 2 games so far and her team is still trying to learn the concept of soccer while the other teams seem like they have been playing for years. They still all have fun. Abby says she LOVES soccer. She hustles a lot and almost scored a goal in her game. Honey and Pop Pop got to see her play when they were in town. She likes an audience!

Abby playing goalie she really hustles Halftime with Gracie and Ana Michelle

The first game, their coaches did not show up so I was a substitute coach

after game huddle...all of them had fun!

2010-12-15T17:45:00.000-06:00

Decorating the Christmas Tree

Abby couldn't wait to decorate the Christmas tree. We got out all the ornaments and started with the non-breakable ones. Both Abby and Hudson had fun putting the ornaments on the tree. Everytime Hudson saw an ornament with Santa Claus, he would say Ho Ho Ho. Abby was excited to hang some fragile ornaments too. She was very careful. This tree has some lights out, ornaments clustered together, some bare branches...especially at the top, and it's the most beautiful tree ever! Abby and Hudson are very proud of their tree.

both of them took turns with daddy putting the angel on the top of the tree

2010-12-15T17:15:00.000-06:00

Hanging of the Greens Service

This was a wonderful service that our church had this year to let the children and youth share the symbolism of the church at Christmas time. Abby's cherub choir sang "Away in the Manger," with hand motions. They all did a wonderful job.

2010-12-07T14:26:00.003-06:00

Auburn vs Georgia

Brent and I try to go to at least one Auburn game a year. Abby and Hudson got to spend some quality time in Memphis with Honey and Pop Pop while Brent and I took a mini vacation. This year, my awesome Chi-O pledge class had a reunion. It's great to keep up with everyone through blogs, facebook, etc, but to see my friends in person was just so much fun. We are a "bit" older, but it was like nothing much had changed...except for the husbands, children, etc. I hijacked the pictures from our tailgate from Darby (who has a fantastic blog if you don't already read it!). I can't wait to have another reunion next year!Erika and me
Sarah, Anna Kate, me, Tara, Darby, Tara, Erika

We had a great viewthe night sky

Let the celebration begin

Another victory

A great tradition

2010-11-26T17:36:00.010-06:00

Before and After Part I

Many of you have seen our renovation journey since May. Some parts were extremely fun and other parts were frustrating and difficult. I am not the best decision maker but I had to become one...fast. We have been in about a month and still have plenty of things to do, but wanted to share some before and after pictures of our new house

This is the outside before after...We enclosed the carport and added a front porch, new carport and circle driveway

view from front door before

after...we knocked out the wall between original living room and carport and also the wall between the living room and kitchen, added hardwood floors throughout

view from the front of the house before

after...we wanted an open floor plan between the dining room, kitchen, and family room kitchen beforeafter...we ripped out the lovely yellow metal cabinets and added custom cabinets along with new appliances, light fixtures, and island. the pass through window goes into the playroom where we will put antique windows when we find some we like
carport before

after...we turned the carport into our family room

we added timbers between the kitchen/dining and the family room

outside storage before

after...it's now our powder room

view from the carport door before

after...we added a wet bar in the family room

There were three original bedrooms and a bathroom on the left side of the house. We painted, ripped up carpet and refinished the floors for the bedrooms and changed the tile and toilet in the kids' bath along with painted and installed a new door

kids' bath before
after

Abby's room before

after

Hudson's room before

after

original master before

after...new guest room

2010-11-26T12:51:00.002-06:00

My Sous Chefs

I had 2 great helpers for some yummy dinners. The first was soup that was delicious. The second was stuffed chicken with a side of fresh green beans, snapped by my sous chefs

2010-11-16T14:44:00.003-06:00

Daddy's Candids

Abby found Daddy's wigs in his closet. Abby is Tom Cruise (Halloween 2006) and Hudson is Bo Duke (Halloween 2005)
Fun in the kitchen

2010-11-16T14:39:00.001-06:00

Cherub Choir Performance

2010-11-16T14:33:00.001-06:00

Crazy Hair Day at School

Thanks Nana!

2010-11-16T14:18:00.004-06:00

Halloween

After fall festivals and parties, Halloween finally arrived. Our new neighborhood hosts a Halloween party, so we got to help this year. It was a lot of fun being with friends and seeing all the cute costumes. After the party, we went trick-or-treating. Abby was a natural and after Hudson went to his first house, he realized that after you say trick-or-treat, you get candy! He learned to say that really fast. H kept up with the big kids and made sure he got his candy too.

Again, here is Snow White and her dwarf, Doc
Hudson loved the cars at the party
After he got his hands on this football, he wouldn't let it go

Abby and Hudson are on the left side (Hudson holding the football). We have so many great friends!

Snack time with Gracie, Michael, and Ana Michelle

Trick-or-Treating

We had trick-or-treaters at our house too

2010-11-12T23:13:00.000-06:00

School Halloween Parties

2010-11-11T23:02:00.002-06:00

Fall Festival at Central Methodist

Trunk-or-Treat, games, cake walk, and FUN

Snow White and her dwarf (Doc)
Snow White, Daphne, and Bellefootball toss...some might say she has an arm like her daddy, but I think she gets it from me!

Same with Hudson

2010-11-06T14:42:00.001-05:00

Fall Festival at CWS

2010-10-26T09:18:00.004-05:00

Day 172

Move-in day

play room needs some toyspantry needs some food

our bedroom needs a bed (172 days is a long time without your own bed!)

Here come the movers

almost done

Looks like a huge garage sale

Hudson is looking for his footballAbby found her chalk

We are very blessed to be in our home.

2010-10-20T16:41:00.006-05:00

Days 161-168

Almost There

I don't have any really exciting pictures. It's been mainly electricians, plumbers, painters, and carpenters at the house. I could show you pictures of pipes and light switches, but decided to spare you the boredom. We did have a lot of concrete poured in the front and back. We are nearing move-in date, so we are scurrying around to get our inspections and acquire a temporary Certificate of Occupancy.

refinished floors of the three original bedrooms brent's closet

one side of my closet

the other side

kids' bathroom

laundry room with our new washer and dryer

range top, dishwasher, and microwave

plumbing fixtures are in

bar sink

powder room

We put in a circular driveway

back patio

ceiling of carport...not finished yet

2010-10-19T20:38:00.011-05:00

Children's Museum and the Zoo

The kids and I went to Memphis this past weekend. The house is wrapping up but I needed a little break from decision making. We had so much fun. We met Finy and her 2 boys, Walker and Jack, at the Children's Museum. Decatur definitely needs something like this where you can take any age kids and they can play, learn, and have fun. The next day, Honey and Pop Pop took all of us plus Libby and Knox to the Zoo. It was a beautiful day to go to the Zoo. We came back Sunday and working hard on getting the house liveable. More pictures soon to come on the house.

learning how to fly a plane grocery shopping Driving a bus

Jack and Hudson had fun

Chief Walker
Hudson did have fun, just doesn't look like it now!

Abby, Libby and some gorillas

cousins

Honey, Pop Pop and their grandkids

even though we were weary, we had to see the elephants...my kids favorite and Pop Pop's too Knox, Hudson, and some elephantstaking a rest

carousel ride

Abby and Libby navigated to the exit

2010-10-19T19:26:00.001-05:00

Donuts with Dad

2010-10-09T17:23:00.005-05:00

Days 155-158

a lot of work in a short amount of time

hardware for the cabinets

closet organizer

Jason needs to hire Abby to model for all his advertisements

appliances

granite

one side of mud room

other side of mud room

our mantel that came from an old barn

china cabinet

laundry room

my side of bathroom

brent's side of bathroom

master shower

about to refinish the original hardwood floors in back bedrooms

pendant lights over island

wet bar in den

my tub!

2010-10-04T21:15:00.002-05:00

Moving Out but not Moving In

a HUGE thank you to my wonderful friend Jess who generously offered her house for my family to rent for 5 months. Not many friends would leave their own house so you, your husband, 2 kids, and a dog could move right in and take it over. And, we're still friends. Going from a friend to a landlord/renter relationship could put a strain on a friendship, but we made it through with flying colors. And, not to mention, Scout, our dog, and a room full of stuff still reside at her house. That's going above and beyond! We had a great stay on Eastmead but our move to Birch is delayed for...I don't really know.

We are now nomads. With most of our stuff still in storage, we packed what we needed and headed to Brent's parents' house for a few days. Then, on to the next house. It happens that another friend and her family are going out of town and my family will be staying there and taking care of their pets and protecting their house. We will be there human alarms while they are gone. This will put us close to our new house so we can hurry the workers along, if that's possible. Anyway, we are waiting patiently for everything to be complete. I know it will all be worth it once we move in. Stay tuned for more updates!

2010-10-04T10:58:00.003-05:00

Picture Day

The kids had picture day at school. You never know how those will turn out so we decided to take a few pictures before school.

2010-10-04T10:46:00.002-05:00

Day 152

paint, new cabinets

painting the outside of the houseour new cabinet for under the TV
more laundry cabinets

2010-10-02T12:04:00.003-05:00

Day 149

island, timbers and more travertine

this is our island in the kitchenit's reclaimed antique oak
timbers for the entry

still working on timbers for family room

laundry room hall shower

new shingles for house

2010-10-02T11:37:00.003-05:00

Day 148

more cabinets

my little helperour front door
powder room vanity

Brent's side of the bathroom

my side

china cabinet

hall bathroom

2010-09-28T12:37:00.003-05:00

Day 147

our cabinets!

this is is the wet bar in the family roomkitchen
travertine in kids' bathroom

2010-09-26T18:45:00.007-05:00

Day 145

master bath, finished floor, change of color

master showerceiling of shower
bath and linen closet

changed color in bedroom

waiting for tub

Done!

took the wood floor down the hall

the original wood floors will be in the bedrooms

my desk...in boxes

more shingles

2010-09-26T18:02:00.003-05:00

Day 144

door knobs, travertine, wood floors

we finally have locks for our doorsmore wood floor

adding shingles to the addition

travertine for master bath, this is where the claw foot tub will be

can lights in family room

2010-09-23T14:45:00.004-05:00

Days 141-142

little more demo and begin installation of floors

the only time I like my front yard looking like a used car lot...a lot of work happening this week!

ripped up carpet in hallwaydemo of hall (kids') bath

more trim...this is laundry room and place for extra fridge

prep for flooring

harwood floors!

sneak peek

2010-09-21T20:51:00.001-05:00

Day 139

Painting begins