Shumard Scoop

"The GAP" Oyster Roast

2010-01-10T20:47:00.007-05:00

***For starters, let me say that "the gap" is our Sunday School class. The official name is the Agape Friendship class because two classes combined to make one. One of the members of our class jokingly called it "the gap" this morning and I liked it and it makes my life easier for blogging purposes, so from here on out our Sunday School Class will be known as "the Gap."***

Our Sunday School Class had an Oyster Roast the other night and we all had a great time. I for one do not eat Oysters, it is a texture thing with me, but I had fun with everyone any way. The ones that ate Oysters started the night off by shucking, and eating, away...

by the end of the night they had put away 4 1/2 bushels of Oysters. Even a few of the kids enjoyed them, Sydney even eats the little baby Crabs...

Emma Claire tried them and at first she seemed to like them, but then she changed her mind, I think the last one was just a little too big for her tastes...

We had a great time of fellowship with one another. The kids had fun playing with toys and of course the older ones brought there PSPs and DSis. Chuck even got into the fun with the video game boys...

We had a great time and can't wait for the next one!!! A HUGE thank you to Timmy and Ruthie Ward and Susan and Derek Harrelson for all of their hard work putting it all together, letting us use their workshop, and most importantly steaming the oysters!!!!

The Agape Friendship Class....Screven Baptist Church...Sundays 9:15am....ALL are welcome

By Popular Demand...

2010-01-08T09:11:00.003-05:00

Ok...so I know that I said I was going to start with 2010 and keep the blog updated, but the demand has been overwhelming!!! So, as to not upset anymore of my loyal readers, lol, I have decided to include a link to my snapfish Christmas Album. Hope you Enjoy!!!

Click he re to view photos

OUR NEW HOME!!!!

2010-01-04T20:58:00.013-05:00

Okay, so we moved out of my Parents house in July (That is our new house above) and I just have to share all that we have been doing...complete with before and after pics!! We are not quite finished, but we are getting close, only a few rooms left and some details to take care of and it will be like new...in some cases literally!!! So here are some pics of what it looked like when we got here...My Kitchen:
Emma Claire's Bedroom:
Isaac's Bedroom:
The kids bathroom:
My Dining Room: The Living Room:
For some bizarre reason the people who lived here before us thought that dirty pink paint and blindingly bright blue paint was the way to go through the WHOLE house...that was one of the first things to go!!! The previous tenants were also smokers, so the smell was HORRIBLE, but that is also long gone! As is the yellow running down the walls when we cleaned them...it is AMAZING what a little elbow grease can accomplish! We have completed what I lovingly refer to as the kids end of the house, so here are some after pics of those rooms. Including the "playroom" that is currently serving double duty as mine and Jamey's bedroom until we can get the actual bedroom finished too. My Kitchen:

Emma Claire's Bedroom:

Isaac's Bedroom (including his favorite part, the solar system):

The kids bathroom:
the Playroom:

My Dining Room:
and The Living Room (including my all time favorite...my reading corner):

I have to include this shot of the hallway because you can really see the hardwood floors my dad and Jamey put in...
The carpets in the house were awful and we are still waiting to get it together to get new carpet in the bedrooms, but at least they are livable. The "public" areas of the house not so much, so we put in floating floors and they look amazing. They completely change the look of the house and we LOVE them. That about covers it so far. I will be sure to update when we finish the rest of the work. The end of the house we haven't done has the most damage and will take the longest to complete, but we are anxious to continue in making this house our home!!! I can't wait to see how it all turns out...what about you???

WE'RE BAAACCCKK....Well, Sort of

2010-01-04T20:11:00.002-05:00

Okay, so it has been a while. A long while since I have updated this blog. I have a reason of course...we moved!!! We finally got a house and moved in mid July...to a house that was a WRECK and needed a TON of work. Plus no internet...which is where the "sort of" part comes in. We still do not have internet, so I will not be updating as much as I used to, but I will TRY to do better than I have the past several months. I don't really know where to start to catch you all up on the very busy life of us Shumards, so I have decided that instead of try to catch you up I would just go from here. I will start 2010 with a whole new blog of our family and the fun that is to be had in this brand new decade. Just to quickly recap the past several months...We moved, Isaac started a new Preschool which he LOVES, I fell down the stairs and messed up my wrist and spent MONTHS trying to figure out what was wrong, Emma Claire is as feisty as ever and growing every day, Jamey is liking work and enjoying our new house, We had an AWESOME Thanksgiving in KY visiting family and a Wonderful Christmas celebrating the Birth of our Savior. So here we are caught up, sort of, and ready to head into the great unknown that is 2010. So hold on for the ride and I will try to keep you posted on what happens in our Story...

Family Fun Night #2

2009-07-13T08:19:00.002-04:00

Screven had another Family Fun Night for the kids on Wednesday Night. Isaac got to go to this one and all the kids had a really great time. Emma Claire's first trip down the water slide ended with her falling off the end into a mud puddle created by said water...
it was hilarious though!! She got right up and ran back for more, mud on her face and all!!! Enjoy these pics from the rest of the night...

Now for a word of Explanation...

2009-07-10T18:32:00.006-04:00

Some of you may have noticed that all of a sudden it took a while for my blog to be updated with the last of vacation. Well, here is the reason...
Yes my friends that would be a bright yellow cast on my RIGHT hand (making me completely useless for a few weeks). On sunday I was coming down the stairs holding Emma Claire and somehow managed to trip (probably over my own feet) and we were tumbling. We landed on the hardwood floors and Emma Claire flew out of my arms and landed on a pillow. She was not hurt at all, just a little scared. I on the other hand did not fair so well (I caught my entire body weight on my wrist). It was not until we got almost to church that my adrenaline calmed down enough for me to even feel the pain or notice the swelling, or the big lump that was forming on the side of my wrist....

I decided (after much debate and talking to 2 nurses, I am stubborn what can I say) to go have the thing xrayed. Jamey and I left church and headed to Doctors care. They xrayed my wrist but could not see anything because of the swelling, they decided to treat it as a sprain until the next day and gave me this to wear...
the next day another xray and a ct scan were normal, so off to the specialist I went. He took one look at it and said it was the tendons and ligaments, so I ended up with this...
I have to wear it for 3 weeks and then we will see if they are healed, if not there is probably more damage than first suspected (like a tear) adn we will have to discuss treatment options then!!! Fun for me!! The kids love it though, Isaac said it was horrible, simply horrible, but then he got to write his name on my cast and it wasn't so horrible anymore...
Not wanting to be outdone, Emma Claire came with a marker too. She left her "scribble Scrabble" as Isaac calls it, but that is okay with me....
This is the finished product...
I can just see all the kids at church now, I think I will end up with a lot more signatures once VBS starts, we will see!!! So that folks is why I have been so long without blogging vacation! I will keep you posted on the pain and healing of my poor little wrist!! Thanks for you patience, typing with one hand is not as easy as it looks!!!

Fourth of July Fun

2009-07-10T18:02:00.008-04:00

Happy Birthday to America and My Momma!!! We started off the birthday of America with a trip to Home Depot for the children to build a Picnic Caddy...

They both did a great job and were so proud of themselves...

Then the kids spent some time playing in the pool with their Granddaddy and Luke...

We ended the day with a Party for Greer/Mum to celebrate her birthday. I wasn't able to make her a cake because I was on vacation, but we got her one anyway... The kids had a great time singing and helping blow out the candles...

I think overall it was a great birthday for my mom and we all had a great Fourth of July!! Never forget those who gave there lives for our freedom!! Happy Birthday America and Thank you to all those who serve and have served to maintain this great country!!!

Vacation Day 6

2009-07-10T17:28:00.007-04:00

Vacation Blog 200906:
We started off the day with a little shopping and then surprised the kids with dinner at Chuck E. Cheeses. Isaac calls it Chuck E Cheez its!!! They both had a great time playing games before and after we ate...

They also had fun riding the different rides that were there...

We also ate pizza...

and had fun drinking out of the kids straws, they made us look like mice...

Then it was time to cash in our tickets, 386 of them...

The kids had fun picking out their prizes and even more fun playing with the microphones that they chose...

it was a great end to a wonderful vacation and I am so bless to have the great family that I have! Until the next vacation...

Vacation Day 5

2009-07-03T23:13:00.011-04:00

Vacation Blog 200905:
On Day Four we took the kids to see Ice Age 3: Dawn of the Dinosaurs. It was a great movie and I recommend it to all parents!! The kids really enjoyed it, even Emma Claire. Well, she liked the parts she didn't sleep through anyway!! On day five, we took the kids to the Children's Museum of the Lowcountry. It is such a neat place and we all had a great time. We stared off in the Castle Room...

Then it was on to the Ball room. A giant room with a lot of golf balls and motion activities and learning exhibits...

Next up was the Water room. I thought this one would be the favorite, but the ball room won out in that contest! Isaac and Emma Claire enjoyed themselves, but weren't really too sure how to handle the crowd that was in this room...

After they finished with all of the water, they decided to do a little grocery shopping. It was pretty funny watching them pick out the different items. Isaac loved the fruits and veggies and Emma Claire was just grabbing random things. After they filled their carts, they were able to "check out" at the registers. It was really a neat place and I may send them the next time I need groceries...

We left the market and headed into the toddler play area for the kids to play and for us to have a little break. They had a great time playing with the toys and climbing on stuff...

Before we headed for home, the kids went to the Arts and Crafts room to make an American Flag in honor of the Fourth of July and a pirate ship in honor of the new exhibit "PIRATES" opening on July 7th...

And once again, only one child made it out of the Museum on his own two feet! Emma Claire faded fast and was asleep before we left...
We headed back to the house and ended up at Doctor's Care to find out why Emma Claire was running a fever. Other than telling us it was a bacterial infection, we have no idea what is wrong with her! It is hard to believe that we only have one day left of vacation. In some ways it has flown by and in others it has been a nice slow trip. One more day and another vacation blog to go, hopefully Emma Claire will fill well enough for one more adventure before we head back to Georgetown for the fourth!

Vacation Day 3

2009-07-03T22:26:00.006-04:00

Vacation Blog 200904:
On day four of vacation 2009, we called some friends of ours, the Bowens, to make dinner plans. They in turn invited us to Whirlin Waters Splash Park for the day. We decided to join them. We all had a great day. The kids started out at the Tree House where a 1000 gallon bucket dumped water on the crowd every few minutes...

Jamey and the kids kept waiting for the bucket to drop, but I did it once and that was enough for me. It was kind of painful when the water hit you head on!!! They also had fun playing with Ian, Bella, and Connor, the Bowen Kids...

Of course they also had fun playing with their favorite playmates, each other. They were precious playing follow the leader...

Sometimes Isaac went to fast and Emma Claire couldn't find him, it was too cute. They both had a great day and really had a blast playing on different water things than they are used to. Isaac had fun running from one area to the other and Emma Claire enjoyed playing in the water the most...
Isaac kept going like the energizer bunny, but Emma Claire started to fade. We went on the lazy river and she didn't make it the second time around...

She was tuckered out, only later did we discover that she was also getting sick!!! A big thanks to the Bowens for inviting us, we had a great time and can't wait to do it again!!!

Vacation Day 2.5

2009-07-02T21:21:00.010-04:00

Vacation Blog 200903:
When we had all exhausted our energy at Cypress Gardens, we headed for a relaxing lunch and some indoor activities. The Charleston Museum was the perfect destination...
The kids really enjoyed the exhibits. Here are some of their favorites...

But they really enjoyed the interactive, hands on exhibits throughout the museum. They got to weave and make quilt patterns...

then we headed to their most favorite place in the WHOLE museum. The Kids Story exhibit. This was a completely interactive exhibit and they got to touch and feel and play!!! They each watched videos about pirates, and Peter Parker. Apparently, Peter Parker had his pants blown off by cannon fire. Isaac, Emma Claire, and Jamey enjoyed the videos...

They also enjoyed looking at objects under a microscope and with magnifying glasses...

Both made rubbings of pictures of museum artifacts, of course Isaac kept getting frustrated because the paper kept slipping, but he eventuall was able to finish...

And enjoyed raising the pirate flags...

Then their imaginations took over and they became detectives looking for clues! It was too cute...

After about an hour of the kids playing in Kid Story it was time to get going back to the house. But first they had to look down at the Whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling...

Then it was back to the house for a good night sleep!! Day Three was fast approaching and a whole lot of fun awaited the Shumards!!!

Vacation Day Two

2009-07-02T19:32:00.010-04:00

Vacation Blog 200902:
We awoke early the second day of Vacation to beat the heat! We headed out to Moncks Corner and Cypress Gardens...
We were on a mission to see Shrek! We had no luck there, but we did see an alligator or two!! The first stop was the butterfly house...
The butterflies were beautiful and EVERYWHERE. Caterpillars crawled all over the leaves, which explained the amount of butterflies...

There was also a duck, some gold fish, a bee hive and a bananna tree that were really cool...

Isaac wanted to know why they had banannas in the butterfly house! The attendant asked him what he did with bananas, and he said I eat them. She told him that is what the were there for!! It was hysterical!! After the butterfly house, we headed to the Swamparium. There were a lot of really cool animals in the aquarium, including one with hands...

Isaac enjoyed learning about the different animals in the tanks by reading the questions and answers on the wall...
Then it was on to the Alligators. These were behind a fence...

we then decided to take a boat ride in the swamp. We rowed our own boat and had a great time, but this time we saw an alligator that wasn't behind a fence...

We really were this close to it! We rowed right over where it was, of course it had gone under water by that time. The swamp was really beautiful, and we even got to row under bridges...

Emma Claire and Isaac kept us straight with the maps so that we didn't get lost...
After our boat ride we treated the kids to ice cream because we were all so hot...

Then it was time to head to our next destination, but that my friends is another blog!

Vacation Day One

2009-07-02T19:02:00.006-04:00

Vacation Blog 200901:
We arrived in Summerville and headed to the house to get settled in. After a day of unpacking and playing with toys...

We decided to take the kids to Wasabi for dinner...
This is Isaac's favorite place to eat. He took a lot of care looking at the menu to pick out what he wanted to eat...
He decided on the Soup, Shrimp, and Rice!!! Isaac and Emma Claire both love the soup at Japanese Restaurants and ate not only theirs but Mine and Jamey's as well...

Isaac REALLY loves that soup!!! The chef was really cool, he bounced an egg on his spatula...
and made a volcano out of onions...
The kids really enjoyed the show, though Emma Claire did not like the noise. Both kids ate well, but really enjoyed drinking their "SMURF"s...

Notice the color in the straw, it is just Sprite, but they love it because it is blue. It was a great first day. Stay tuned for more Vacation logs!

Recent Videos that wouldn't upload to blogger...

2009-07-02T18:53:00.002-04:00

A Boater's Paradise...

2009-07-01T21:36:00.009-04:00

We spent Saturday out in the boat and on the Island. The kids had a great time. Emma Claire didn't like the boat ride out to the Island because of the wind, but once we got there she was great. Within a few minutes of being on the Island we found a reall cool "Shell"...
A Horseshoe Crab Shell. I have never seen one so big before. I have no idea what I will do with it, but I brought it home! Then the kids found a neat little pool of "salty" water, as Isaac said, to play in...

they had a great time. We moved over after a while to some calmer water and the kids got to play in the water and in the sand. Of course, they both got STUCK!!! Emma Claire deeper than Isaac, but the both got their feet buried because of the soft sand...

Emma Claire was all too eager to help her brother out of the sand! It was too cute, Emma Claire to the rescue!! The kids got hungry, so we gave them a picnic on the boat...

During the Picnic, Emma Claire and her Granddaddy took a little break and kicked back on the boat...
Isaac discovered the ladder on the boat and that started a whole new wave of play fo rhte kids, until I had to make them stop...

of course it was hard to keep them out of the boat, they kept coming back for more and more food. Boiled Peanuts mostly...

Before we left the Island, Isaac wanted to make a sand castle. We had left all of the sand buckets and stuff at home, so we improvised...

Isaac did a pretty good job of filling the bottle and covering it with sand to make a sand mountain!!! Then it was time to head back to the docks and home. Neither child made it all the way...

Too much Sand, Sun, Surf, and Salt will do that too you I guess! We had a great day and can't wait until the next time we go, maybe next time we will see more than one dolphin!!

As a Mom...I am WAY cool!!

2009-07-01T11:45:00.005-04:00

We were messing around at Coastal Grand Mall the other day and the kids wanted to play in the fountain. I said NO since we were headed into the bookstore, but as soon as we finished in there I surprised them by letting them frolic and play the water fountain way!! They got SOAKED, but that was cool since we had clothes in the car. They had a blast and that is all that matters...

Crocodile Dock

2009-06-26T22:53:00.005-04:00

Isaac attended Vacation Bible School at Herbert Methodist Church this week and had a great time!! There theme was "Crocodile Dock" set in the Bayou, it was really cute!! Thank you so much to all of the workers who made it possible, You all did a great job!!! On friday night the parents were invited to the closing time to see the children sing the songs and tell what they had learned all week. We got there a little early so ended up waiting, Emma Claire did great though... Of course when the kids came in she wanted to join them. Luckily Sydney and Emily Grace didn't mind having the "baby" tag along... Then all of the children sang a few songs and then got their certificates and a "candle" to show that they are God Sightings. Mrs. Jamie even gave Emma Claire a "candle" too... Then it was time to sing "This Little Light of Mine". This song was one of Isaac's favorites! After the program was over they announced who would get SLIMED!!! They had a running competition between the boys and the girls to see who could bring the most offering. The competition ended in a tie, or so they said, so 2 boys and 2 girls were getting slimed. Guess whose name was drawn??? You got it... ISAAC!!!! He was such a good sport, he did so good and was excited until the slime went down his face and into his mouth. Then he was done!! He got a little upset, but after a change of shirt and a wet cloth, he was good to go... He has laughed about it since. Isaac had a great time and was glad that he went every night!! Thanks again to the people of Herbert for making Crocodile Dock GREAT!!!

Slip N Slide Fun

2009-06-25T22:41:00.009-04:00

Isaac spotted his Diego Slip N Slide from last year in the Garage and decided that he wanted it out. So I obliged and even though it was a little dirty (We cleaned it first) and quite faded, he and Emma Claire had fun anyway!! They would slide for a while and then go jump in the pool!!! They had a blast and I enjoyed watching them!!! Enjoy the pics and a video from the day...

Farmers in the Dell...

2009-06-21T19:59:00.003-04:00

My dad has once again planted a garden, this year it is growing crazy fast...Almost every evening Isaac and Emma Claire head out to the back yard with G and help him pick the Cucumbers and Squash (he also planted peppers, but he doesn't let them pick those)...

The kids have so much fun picking them and then running to put them in the bucket to bring them inside...

They can't wait for the tomatoes and okra to be ready so they can pick them too!! They are such great little farmers and love to help their G!!!

Slime Night

2009-06-20T20:38:00.009-04:00

Screven had a Family Night on Wednesday straight out a Nickelodeon show from my childhood!! Luke made slime!! Isaac was at VBS at another church, but I took Emma Claire and she had a blast!! Before we headed outside we had a dinner of BBQ Chicken, Mimi and Emma Claire enjoyed each other too...
The kids all lined up for things to get started...

Luke started the older kids with a relay race...

and the babies got to enjoy the pools...

Then it was time for SLIME TIME!!! Luke played musical buckets with the kids, all the buckets were full of water, except one...
SLIME!!! He demonstrated how the kids were to sit in the buckets, he used an unsuspecting Michaela to prove his point...

She was soaked, but laughing!! It really was hilarious!! Then the kids got to play! My Cousins son, Gabriel, actually liked the slime...

Then all of the kids took off for the water slide...

Mimi was waiting in line with Emma Claire when Michaela and Gabriel decided to play a prank on her, they dumped a bucket of water over her head. SHE SCREAMED!!! She went down the slide with Emma Claire and ended up soaking wet...

It was so much fun!!! The night ended with the kids getting a little snack of fruit and cheese from Chuck Daniels... Emma Claire had a great time, but was ready to head back inside when the games ended, she was one tired girl...
We had a blast and can't wait for the next one, maybe next month Isaac will get to go too!!!

The Orchestra

2009-06-20T20:20:00.004-04:00

I took Isaac and Emma Claire to the Library for a program about musical instruments. The band teacher from Georgetown Middle School, Laura Bone, was there to lead the program. We got there a little early and the air conditioner is broken in the auditorium, I knew we were in for an interesting day when my children started doing this...

The fans were there to help keep us cool during the program since the air is still not fixed, but my children started ring around the fans!!! I seriously almost bailed, but finally when I had threatened to leave the 3rd time (I know, I know threats are supposed to be followed up with action, but I wanted Isaac to get to see the instruments!! He LOVES music!!!) they settled down and got ready for the program...

Mrs. Bone showed the kids several instruments and played a few too. The Flute...
The Clarinet...
The Oboe...
The Violin...
and The Trumpet...
She had the kids buzz their lips like they were playing the trumpet, Emma Claire couldn't figure it out, but Isaac did a great job...
Then she read the kids "Zin, Zin, Zin, A Violin"...
It was a great program and Isaac really enjoyed it!! I am so thankful for a library that offers such great things for the kids!!!

Baruch Marine Lab @ the Library

2009-06-16T19:00:00.005-04:00

I took Isaac and Emma Claire to the Baruch Marine Lab program at the Library this morning. It was alot of fun and very interesting. The kids had the most fun because 4 of their cousins were there with daycare too...Wyatt Pope:
Kennsley Pope:Ward Daniels: Sydney Daniels: The program started with a book reading, "A Day at the Salt Marsh"...

The kids enjoyed the book and learned that the salt marsh is never the same from day to day. Then the kids got to pass around different skulls and fossils...A Tiger Shark Jaw (Which Ward pretended to get eaten by)...

A Sea Sponge...
A Pelican Beak (Ward and Isaac both pretended to be pelicans)...

A Sea Turtle Skull (Isaac had a long conversation with this one)...
and the fosslized skin of a sea snake...
The kids enjoyed it so much!! Then it was time for the live crab trays. The kids patiently waited their turn...
Then it was finally Isaac and Emma Claire's turn. They enjoyed looking at the fiddler crabs and trying to catch them...

Emma Claire even held a snail! They had a great time and can't wait for the next program. Luckily they don't have to wait long, there is one tomorrow about the Orchestra!!!

Friend Day at Piney Forest

2009-06-16T18:05:00.010-04:00

Luke's Father is pastor of Piney Forest Baptist Church in Andrews. They had a Friend day to kick off their VBS. The Walkers were gracious enough to invite Isaac and Emma Claire to come and enjoy the fun with them. Unfortunately Isaac ended up with a virus and couldn't go, but we took Ellbie and Emma Claire and they had a blast!! Ellbie was a pro at climbing up the waterslide and sliding down, but Emma Claire needed some help...

Of course Auntie Mimi did not come prepared to get wet, but she took one for her Niece. She was SOAKED by the time Emma Claire was done sliding...
Then the girls ran through the inflatable obstacle course a few times...

We took a break to eat hot dogs for lunch...

Then it was on to the kiddie pools...

Before we headed home I took part in a Win a Cake Hot Potatoe game. After several rounds of the game, I finally won a cake...
(I have no clue why this pic flipped sideways...but whatever!)

Then it was time to go home, so we headed to the car...We had a great time and really enjoyed ourselves! We are so thankful for being invited to share in the day with our sister church members! The girls had a great time and were worn out by the time we left, neither made it home awake...

Pool Time Fun

2009-06-12T19:53:00.003-04:00

It is Summer again and the Cannon Pool is ready!! We have been out several times, but since I am usually by myself with the kids, taking pics is not always easy. Jamey was home today though and so of course I took advantage of that fact and got some pics of the kids in the pool. Enjoy...

Sun Fun Festival 2009

2009-06-08T21:18:00.010-04:00

My mom read in the paper that the Sun Fun Festival was going to be taking place this week. The part that made us want to take the kids was the fact that the Backyardigans were going to be doing a meet and greet on Saturday at The Market Common...
Considering that the Backyardigans is one of Isaac's favorite shows, we decided to take them for a day of Fun in the Sun. We took Ellbie along for the day too!! When we arrived at the Kids Zone, the lines were crazy, so my mom got in line for the Backyardigans while I took the kids to the inflatables to have some fun...All the kids did the slide...then they waited for their turn in the obstacle course...
Even Emma Claire did good in it...
and they all made it to the slide at the end...

Then we headed to the Baseball Batting Inflatable. They all took a turn trying to hit the ball...

Isaac really did pretty well when he stopped trying to bat lefthanded while standing in the position to bat righthanded. Then it was FINALLY time to meet up with Greer to see the Backyardigans. Uniqua and Tyrone were both there...but when our turn came, Pablo was out to meet everyone...This was cool cause he is one of the favorites of the kids. Isaac and Ellbie ran right to him for a pic, but Emma Claire was a little unsure, so I had to take her up to him so that she could be in a pic too...Once they all got over the excitement of Star Struckness over meeting the Backyardigans, they all got thirsty, so a drink was in order...

Then we found a jumping castle before we headed home...
We had a great day and are so glad that we were able to take the kids to do something so neat as meet their "Celebrities"!!! Oh, and it was so nice to take pics of the backyardigans without getting yelled at!!! (for more info on that comment see previous post from September 2008) When we headed back to the car, it was funny because none of the kids wanted to walk, but we only had one stroller, so we improvised...
Not to shabby if I do say so myself! Everyone have a wonderful summer and don't forget to stop every once in a while for some Fun in Sun of your own!!!

Home Depot Kids Workshop

2009-06-07T20:33:00.004-04:00

On Saturday, I took Isaac, Emma Claire, and their cousin Ellbie to Home Depot for the Kids Workshop. They all got to put on Home Depot Aprons and build something (A Divided box)...
All of the kids tried hard to figure out how to put the box together. Isaac thought about it and waited...
Ellbie wanted the GLUE...
and Emma Claire thought it would be great to just stack the pieces in a pile...
Isaac got some help from the Home Depot lady, but he thought her hammering was TOO LOUD...
It was funny, all three kids put their hands over their ears at some point, but we only have the pic of Isaac doing it. Then it was his turn to hammer...
Ellbie and Emma Claire got to hammer too...

I ended up finishing all three boxes, but that was okay...
We all had a great time and can't wait to go back next month for another workshop!!

I SCREAM....YOU SCREAM....

2009-06-07T20:25:00.001-04:00

We all Scream for Ice Cream in the mall!! Jamey and I decided to be nice and get the kids DQ at the mall the other day since they were so good while we ran errands. Enjoy these pics...

A Little More Wild Water

2009-06-07T20:12:00.003-04:00

The Shumard clan headed to Wild Water and Wheels the other day for fun in the sun! We had a great day, even though we forgot Emma Claire's Lifejacket. Luckily, the park provides them! It was as big as she was, but that only slowed her down a little bit! Once she got used to it, she was OFF!! She was much braver this time around, going down even the BIG kiddie slide! Isaac had a great time playing with his baby sister! They were so sweet and FEARLESS!!! Of course their favorite part of the day was the snacks!! They both stopped to munch about three times!! I don't know how we are going to keep the snacks in stock to take this summer with the way they eat them! Oh well, enjoy these pics from the day...

End of the Beginning....

2009-06-01T10:40:00.012-04:00

Isaac is officially finished with Preschool at Mrs. Barbara's! He had his graduation program on Thursday night and did an excellent job! We got there early, so he started by practicing his part for us, of course Emma Claire wanted to do it too... Then it was time for the program to begin. His class took the stage and said the Pledge of Allegiance... sang a few songs... including the ABCs with sign language, Isaac asked all the children to sign with him, it was too cute... and recited their Bible Verse: Psalm 23... Then it was time for their individual Nursery Rhyme parts...Isaac was Humpty Dumpty, but we dressed him like the Kings men...
Isaac's buddy Devan was Hey Diddle Diddle... Christian was Once I caught a fish... and Bryce was Little Jack Horner... They all did a great job, and were so cute! Once everyone had said their parts, it was time for Certificates. Isaac received a certificate, a diploma, and a GIANT candy bar... He did such a great job and we were so proud of him. We got him a little gift for doing so well. He had some help with opening it and Sydney was so sweet to read his card to him... Then he went to give his gifts to Mrs. Jan and Mrs. Barbara...He loves his teacher, Mrs. Jan, very much and will miss her next year when he goes to his new preschool... He has enjoyed school so much the last two years, and I hope that never changes! WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU ISAAC!! WE LOVE YOU VERY MUCH!!!

GA/RA/M&Ms Recognition

2009-05-27T21:46:00.003-04:00

We had the last night of M&Ms tonight at church. We ended with a little party for the kids and their parents. We all ate the usual pizza, but we had cupcakes and soft drinks and took more time to eat than normal. Then we did a little awards presentation for the kids. I also gave small gifts to my fellow Wednesday Night crew. Enjoy these pics from the evening: Me looking over the certificates to see who is there, and thanking everyone for coming...
Lora Etheridge accepts her thank you gift from me...
Monica McConnell thanks the parents and kids for a great year....
All of the RA boys reciting the RA Pledge...Ward receiving his RA vest with award patches... The GAs reciting their Pledge... Sydney getting her Tshirt and Devotional from Mrs. Lora....
Here are the GAs in their new shirts. The backs say "GO FORWARD" the GA Motto...

Down by the Creekbank

2009-05-27T13:52:00.007-04:00

Sunday Night, the Children's Choir and the Preschool Choir at Screven presented their spring musical. It was so good and the kids really had a good time, which was what I cared most about. It was a little more difficult this year because not only was I by myself in directing, but I also had to be in it. But it all worked out well and everyone seemed to enjoy it. I spent the few hours before the performance getting the set ready. This was harder than you would think since Isaac kept moving stuff around after I got it into place, but overall I think the set looked pretty good...

Mary kept trying to take pictures of Isaac and I, but Isaac was in a mood and said he didn't want any pics with me. So I "cried" and it worked, we got about one of the best pics we have ever taken...
Mary also got a good picture of what we like to call "DOUBLE TROUBLE", Isaac and Ellbie...
Then it was on with the show. Here are the girls. They all did FABULOUSLY...
Here are the guys. The little one is the CUTEST...
Ward catches his first "fish", a RUBBER BOOT...
Sydney singing about her Invisible Dog Germs. She did a GREAT job, even with mic issues...
Ward finally catches a GIANT fish... Even I had a solo in the musical...
Isaac got a little bored during the performane I think. He entertained himself though...
Then before we knew it, it was all over! The kids did a great job and we have an awards night on Wednesday to thank them for all of their hard work. GREAT JOB GUYS!!! YOU ALL DID AWESOME!!!!

My Little Country Girl...

2009-05-23T19:36:00.004-04:00

My Mom was snapping Fresh Green Beans tonight and she got some help...

Emma Claire had a blast helping snap the beans and she was really good at it, even though a few were teeny tiny when she was done! The only thing missing was rocking chairs, a back porch, and a big dog under her feet, that would have made it worthy of a country girl picture book! She is the cutest little country green bean snapper in my book anyway!

Let the Water Logged Mania Begin...

2009-05-23T19:18:00.004-04:00

So it has begun...we had our first trip to Wild Water and Wheels of the season. As season pass holders we were invited to a preopening on Friday Night before the actual season started on Saturday. I decided that I would be SUPER MOMMY and take the kids even though I knew the water would be like ICE! I wasn't proved wrong! The water was freezing, but it didn't seem to effect the kids until after the swimming was done, then they both shivered like crazy!! We started in Wally B.'s kiddie pool, where the kids enjoyed going down the ship slide and their favorite: The Tree House Slide...

Emma Claire was excited that she was big enough to do most of it all by herself this year. She couldn't touch in most of the areas, but I don't think it would have mattered, because even if she could touch, she wouldn't let me put her down! Then we head over to the lagoon behind Wally B.'s. Isaac Loves the High Slide and they both enjoyed going down what we call the slow slide...

Of course the snakes, alligators, and frogs are always a big hit with the kids...

When we finished up there, we headed to the other side of the park where they wore me slap out on the Clam Shell slide. I got no pictures because someone, i.e. me the only adult there with my kids, had to catch Emma Claire, and that little monkey is FAST!!! We also enjoyed the wave pool and lazy river. We each got to eat hot dogs and chips from the food court! Then it was time to head home, partly because the park was getting ready to close, but mostly because Emma Claire had gotten so cold I feared she would turn into a popsicle...
After the kids got changed into dry clothes we headed home! They had a great time and can't wait to go again. Stay tuned for a summer full of fun for the Shumards!!! Who knows what the summer holds...do you?

Pizza Party

2009-05-22T08:50:00.006-04:00

To end the Dodgers Weeball Season, the team had a pizza party at Eastbay Park for all of the kids. OF course our team of 11 had dwindled down to 7, but we had a great time anyway!! The kids all got to play for a while and then it was time to eat...

After they ate, Coach Eddie talked to them (and us) about how much fun the season had been and how proud he was of them...
Then it was time to pass out the trophies, all the kids were so excited to get them...

Of course I had made cupcakes for them for dessert. They were supposed to look like baseballs and I think they kind of did...
Emma Claire was so proud of her big brother and he was happy to have her with him...
Until next year!! PLAY BALL!!!

Women of Joy 2009

2009-05-20T10:03:00.003-04:00

This past weekend my Mom, my Sister, and I headed to North Charleston for the Women of Joy Conference. It was AWESOME. Speakers included Kirk Cameron, Angela Thomas, and Nancy Leigh DeMoss. Charles Billingsley was there to lead in worship and Casting Crowns did a concert for us on Satruday night. Seven other women from our church went as well and we all had a great time of fun and fellowship. Of course we took a TON of pics, so make sure you check out the slideshow above for most of them. On Friday night, Kirk Cameron was our Speaker. He was really cuter in person and spoke on Marriage. I really enjoyed his time, he talked about the things He has learned about Marriage, naturally using FIREPROOF as examples. He said that First he had learned that the Heart of any problem in our marriages is a problem of the heart. We need to see the only Doctor that specializes in the Soul...DR. JESUS!!! Then he said that, and this meant the most to me, there is only ONE person in the UNIVERSE that you can change and that is YOURSELF!!!! Marriage is a COMMITMENT of the heart and we need to purpose in our hearts to make it work NO MATTER WHAT. Thirdly, he has learned to burn bridges and build altars. We have to tear down the walls we try to put up to keep sin out and get rid of the sin itself! We must change the appetites of our hearts!!! We need to burn the bridges to our sin and build altars by putting all of our energy into our Savior that we once put into sinning!!! Then on Saturday Morning, Nancy Leigh DeMoss spoke about Joy! Real Joy doesn't come naturally and we have to work at it, but with Jesus we can be joyful. A Truly joyful woman will point people to the cross! My prayer is that I may become a joyful woman!!! The Chonda Pierce spoke about her depression and little visit to a hospital as a result! She was as funny as ever, but was very real about her story!! On Sunday, Angela Thomas spoke about wearing Crown of Beauty. All of God's girls got ashes, but isn't it great that God wants our ashes on trade-in?? He wants to take our ashes and turn them into beauty!! God calls us all to: 1. Be free of our bitterness, there is no place for bitterness at the Cross. 2. Choose the path of wisdom, follow GOD!! and 3. Choose the Victory, we can only have victory through Jesus Christ. Not only were the speakers amazing, but the music was great too!! I really enjoyed it all and I hope and pray that I can become a WOMAN OF JOY!!! That is my prayer for all of you too!

Arcade Fun

2009-05-15T08:19:00.003-04:00

I took the kids to the Jungle Fun Arcade in Coastal Grand Mall yesterday while I was waiting for an order to be ready in a store. They had a lot of fun playing the games and even more fun picking out the prizes! First they both went after some mice with a mallet on the Cat and Mouse game...
Then Emma Claire took out some sharks...
and Isaac played some basketball...I didn't get any other pics but they played lots more games! I ended up having to help them more than take pics, but I am glad I got these! Then this morning, Isaac used one of the prizes that he chose. Drinking Glasses...
it was really kind of creepy watching the drink go through the glasses, and it scared Emma Claire a little, but Isaac thought it was hilarious! He actually looks kind of cute with glasses!!!

A Bicycle Built for Two...Well, sort of....

2009-05-15T08:13:00.001-04:00

Isaac and Emma Claire enjoyed a day in the sun riding their bikes. Emma Claire is still trying to figure out how to ride her new tricycle and Isaac is doing rather well with his bicycle! Enjoy these pics:

Red Ribbon Kidsfest

2009-05-09T14:59:00.008-04:00

I took the kids to the Red Ribbon Kidsfest on Saturday. It was a lot of fun, even though it was really HOT! The kids got their faces, well their hands, painted. Isaac picked the Ball and Bat and it was too big to fit on his face so "Wendy" put it on his hand...

Then of course Emma Claire wanted her Flamingo on her hand just like Isaac...

It was too funny though. Then we headed over to the inflatables area for the kids to slide and Jump. Isaac was a champ getting up the giant slide, but Emma Claire had some trouble, so I had to take her up and slide down with her...

It was fun, even though it really kind of wore me out! I must be more out of shape than I realized! Then Isaac did the obstacle course...
and they both went down the mini slide, Isaac was able to help Emma Claire up this ladder with out me...

Then the jumping castle...
Next we waited in line for balloons with the balloon lady. There was a man doing magic tricks to entertain us while we waited...
Then it was finally our turn. Isaac chose a sword...

and Emma Claire a bracelet...

We had a great day and were pretty tired when we got home, but hey it was worth it. Remember, DON'T DO DRUGS!!!!

Mother's Day Tea

2009-05-08T12:48:00.006-04:00

Isaac's Preschool had a Mother's Day tea for all of the Mothers. Luckily, all of the parents were able to attend. The kids did a great job with the preparations and were so excited to have us there. The kids waited patiently outside the classroom while all of the mothers arrived... Emma Claire joined them and thought she was just as big as they were!! When everyone had arrived, the kids took us to their seats in the classroom and lined up on the wall to sing us a few Mother's day songs...

They also had made a card for us, they wrote all the words and had their hand prints and a picture included... It was very sweet. Then it was time for them to serve us...The cookies had been made earlier in the week by the kids themselves, so they were very proud of them... Then of course the kids got to eat too, Mrs. Jan even included Emma Claire... It was such a good time and sweet of the kids to do this for us! I love my babies and am blessed beyond measure to have them in my life. After all, without them I wouldn't be able to celebrate Mother's Day at all! I LOVE YOU ISAAC AND EMMA CLAIRE!!!!

Emma Claire is 2!!!

2009-05-08T09:47:00.003-04:00

Emma Claire turned 2 years old on Sunday. We had her birthday party at Eastbay Park on Saturday afternoon. We all had a great time and enjoyed celebrating her birthday. She got lots of great gifts and will be the best dressed little girl for a long time with the clothes she received. She also got her first Bible, a Winnie the pooh tree house, and a few Tinkerbell Blankets. She had a blast and was so well behaved! I hope everyone will take the time to watch the above slideshow of pics from the big day! There were just too many to put on here, so a slideshow was the best option! HAPPY BIRTHDAY EMMA CLAIRE!! How far you have come:

We love you princess and it is a joy watching you grow!!!

BBQ Shag Festival

2009-04-25T20:10:00.004-04:00

As if we weren't tired enough from our little 5K this morning, we decided to head to Hemingway for the BBQ Shag Festival this evening! We needed to eat dinner anyway and we figured there would be rides for the kids. We were not disappointed...

a few of the rides looked kind of scary and old. I actually commented to my Mom that they reminded me of the rides I used to ride at Magic Harbor in Myrtle Beach, then it dawn on me that since that place closed a long time ago...Maybe these WERE the same rides that I used to ride!!! Scary thought, but could be true, I may have to find some old photos and compare!! After we ran our of ticket, the kids of course getting to ride all that they were big enough for, we headed to the other side of the field for the food!! Most of the booths were shutting down, but that was okay with us. We got to see a few things that we wanted and heard some great music while we ate!! Turkey Legs, Corndogs, and BBQ Sandwiches...

We had a really good time hanging out together, but next year we may have to try to get there a little bit earlier!

Janice Gause 5K Cervical Cancer Awareness Race

2009-04-25T15:08:00.003-04:00

The Janice Gause 5K Cervical Cancer Awareness Race was today. Janice Gause recently passed away after her battle with Cervical Cancer. I went to High School with Janice's sister Joy and this was a way for her friends and family to not only remember her, but to raise money for her Toddler son's college fund. I was glad to participate, even though I am not a great runner. I was glad that there was a section for walkers! There was a great turn out and I am pretty sure they raised a lot of money! We had a great time too! There was even a Sweeties Tot Fun Run for Isaac and Emma Claire...
They were so excited about their medals, all the participants received one...

Then we let them go to the park for a while and got them Ice Cream...

It was a great morning!!

Spring Break Trip to the Aquarium

2009-04-25T13:54:00.006-04:00

Over Spring Break the kids and I went to the SC Aquarium in Charleston. We decided to take the Daniels kids with us. Ward couldn't go so it was just us and Ellbie and Sydney. We had a great time. When we got into the doors of the aquarium, there was a man with a big snake around his neck...
all the kids just had to touch it...
There were a lot of really pretty fish at the aquarium...
There was also an Eel...
Alligators...
Penguins...
and a Skunk...The kids had a blast playing in the little play area, pretending to be Sea Boat Captains...

We also got to see Scuba Divers in the tanks feeding the fish...
They kept trying to get the sharks to swim closer, but they just stayed away. Sydney enjoyed the Touch Tank the best I think...

She kept asking questions and stayed there for a while. I am glad that she had a good time. I think that all of the kids had a great time, and were worn out by the time we headed home. The little girls didn't last too long on the car trip home...

I really enjoy doing stuff with those guys and I know that this summer we will have many more adventures. STAY TUNED!!!

HAPPY EASTER!!!!

2009-04-25T12:45:00.009-04:00

Yes, I do realize that it is a little past Easter, but I have been busy and am a little behind in my blogging! Easter was a great day in our house! The Easter Bunny came and the kids actually had to be woken up to see what he had brought them. Emma Claire got a Talking Darby (the New Christopher Robin on Winnie The Pooh) Doll, a Kite, a TShirt, some Candy, and an Umbrella...
Isaac got a V Smile Pocket (kind of like a gameboy), a Kite, A TShirt that says "Daddy's Little Rock Star", Candy, and an Umbrella...
Isaac went straight for his VSmile Pocket...
Emma Claire went straight for the candy...
They were so sweet with each other though!! I have two great kids...
The best thing was that when I ask them why we celebrate Easter, they don't say toys or the Easter Bunny! They get it...they always say Jesus Rose!!! After they had some time with their Easter Baskets, it was time to get ready for church...

I must say they looked really spiffy!! After church everyone headed over to our house for lunch. Ward, Sydney, and Ellbie brought their new little friends over too...
Emma Claire loved them and was all too eager to hold them...
She really reminded me of Sydney at that age, I think we may have another animal lover on our hands! We let the kids have an Easter Egg hunt...

And yes, Isaac did crawl under Uncle Randy's truck looking for an egg! That's my boy!!! We also played outside for a while...

Even Uncle Randy got in on the fun...

At the end of the afternoon, Greer/TuA surprised the kids with an Easter Essential: CHOCOLATE BUNNIES!!! The kids said they were Yummy... They all had a really great time together and we enjoyed each other's company!! I have the greatest family and am so lucky to be living close to them again so that we can have days like this! We are all so Blessed and I thank God everyday for giving me the wonderful family that I have! Happy Easter Everyone...and as Emma Claire says: "Is Jesus In The Tomb??" "NO"!!! Let's never forget that we serve a RISEN Savior!!!!

Church Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-23T10:35:00.010-04:00

On the Saturday before Easter we had our annual Church Easter Egg Hunt, but first we had to stuff all the eggs with candy and prizes. So we let the kids at M&Ms on Wednesday night be our manual labor (of course the adults helped too!)...

Then it was on to Saturday. We had prizes for each group for the person who found the most eggs and the person who found the prize egg...we also had a guessing game for the parents and the kids...The kids were broken up into 4 groups by age/grade, 2 groups searched at a time. Emma Claire's group went first...

Isaac just didn't understand that it wasn't his turn yet...
But when it was, boy did he fly to the yard to find those eggs...

Emma Claire helped him out with the hunt too...

After all the groups had search, it was time to eat and give out prizes...
Mary won the jar of jelly beans, she was only one number off of the total...
Ellbie got the most eggs for her group, and the most of anyone else there (106)...
Emma Claire found the prize egg for the little ones...
and Isaac found the prize egg for his group too...We hid over 1500 eggs and everyone had a really great time!! Until next year!!!

Easter Basket Madness...

2009-04-21T23:23:00.006-04:00

My kids are slightly spoiled...I mean LOVED!! So this Easter there was no exception, Isaac and Emma Claire recevied not one Easter Basket, not Two Easter Baskets...but FOUR Easter Baskets!!! Which was fine since most of the stuff they got in them was practical!! First was the baskets they got from Jamey's Parents, Nonnie and Pop Pop...

both got PJs and books!! Then a few days later, they got their second baskets from my parents, G and Greer...

Momma got Emma Claire a cute Princess TShirt and a gown. Isaac got a Guy Harvey shirt and some shorts. Of course they both got toys too...

The Third basket came from Auntie Mimi...

Hers were so cute all wrapped up, of course the kids thought they were better unwrapped!! They both got coloring books and candy...

I LOVED Isaac's chocolate Chicken, I thought it was unique!! Then of course the Fourth and FINAL Easter Basket came on Sunday Morning, but that is another post!!!

Easter Egg Madness...

2009-04-09T10:46:00.006-04:00

The kids and I dyed and painted Easter Eggs and then had an Easter Egg hunt later in the afternoon. The kids had a great time and I enjoyed myself as well! It all started with Isaac and Emma Claire dropping color tablets into cups of vinegar...

I boiled some eggs, they each got 7 to dye...
then they began dropping the eggs into the color...

While they waited for the eggs to get colored, they entertained themselves with my computer...Once the eggs where finished being dyed and had time to dry...

it was time to paint and decorate! Isaac and Emma Claire were more than eager to start...
They each did an AWESOME job with the decorating, they used paints and stickers...

Their finished eggs looked great! Isaac's Eggs...Emma Claire's Eggs...A little later that afternoon we took them outside to hunt the eggs...They each found several and had a great time...

Even though we had a great time finding Easter Eggs, we all need to remember that it is not the eggs or the bunnies that make Easter important. It is the gift that was given to all of us on a hill called Mt. Calvary years ago. Christ died for us so that we would not have to pay the price for our sinful nature. He died a horrible death and was buried. But that was far from the end of the story...Three days later...CHRIST AROSE FROM THE DEAD!!! He walked among his disciples and ascended into Heaven to prepare a place for all who believe! Anyone who has not accepted this free gift of salvation, or anyone with questions, please ask...I will be glad to answer!! This is the real reason we celebrate Easter! HE LIVES!!!!

Dodgers...Weeball...Game 2

2009-04-09T09:27:00.006-04:00

Isaac has played his second Wee Ball game and this time it was even better!! He actually paid attention to the game and ran for the ball some. Of course so did all of the other kids, but that is okay!! He is learning and having a great time too!! I was excited about this game because Emma Claire and I got to wear the shirts I had made for us...

Emma Claire looked too cute in hers and with that Baseball bow, she was just ADORABLE...

Isaac was excited about this game because his buddy Devan was on the other team...
Both teams played well and had a great time. Here are some pics from the game itself...I am so proud of Isaac and how much fun he is having playing Wee Ball! I am so glad that we signed him up and can't wait for the next game! GO DODGERS!!

Thine is the Kingdom

2009-04-08T09:54:00.004-04:00

On Palm Sunday, the choir of Screven Baptist Church presented the musical "Thine is the Kingdom." The musical took us from the birth of Jesus to his death and resurrection. It was a great musical and the choir did an awesome job...
My sister, Mary, and I both sang solos...

She did a great job, and people tell me I did too, but I wasn't feeling well so I am not so sure! Brandon Lambert and Patrick Ray were our Drama cast...
They did an EXCELLENT job portraying the crucifixion of Jesus...

It was really a touching moment and I am sure that a lot of people were blessed by being in attendance! Shelby Lambert gets the award for filling in for our pianist at the last minute! We needed someone to play a few chords for us before our acapela song and Shelby stepped up and did a great job...
Thanks Shelby!! The entire musical was a success and people have commented that it was the best we have ever had, so GREAT JOB CHOIR and DRAMA!!

Flowertown Festival in Summerville...

2009-04-07T13:37:00.008-04:00

This weekend we headed to Summmerville to see Jamey's family and to attend the Flowertown Festival there. We had a really great time seeing everyone and enjoyed the festival a lot. On Saturday night, we went to Wasabi for dinner. We had to wait a little while on our table but the kids were entertained. There was a live musician and Isaac danced and danced...

While Emma Claire enjoyed looking at the fish in the pond...

When we finally got to sit and our chef came, Emma Claire got startled by his hitting the utensils on the grill and started to cry...
It was really kind of funny since she had been to a place like this several times before! Isaac got to join in the cooking for a moment...
and he and Jamey tried to catch shrimp...

Isaac had more success than Jamey of course!!! The food was delicious, but Isaac loved the onion Volcano with Teriyaki Lava the most...

Then, on Sunday, we headed to downtown Summerville for the Flowertown Festival! There was great booths of crafts and the Bow booth will never be the same since Sherry and I were there! The kids had a blast riding the rides! They rode the train...
the cars...
the carousel...
and the helicopters...
they also both got their faces painted...

They had a really great time, but were worn out! Emma Claire fell asleep before we left the festival...
and Isaac was not far behind. Both kids slept all the way to Georgetown! It was a great weekend and we can't wait to spend time with everyone again!! Love you guys!

The Reason you don't turn your back on a 23 month old...

2009-04-02T11:27:00.004-04:00

I was cleaning up the living room the other day, it looked like a bomb had gone off with the mess that Isaac and Emma Claire had made. Isaac was playing games on the computer and I put Emma Claire in front of the easel to draw while I cleaned. I stopped watching her for like 2 seconds and, well take a look at what happened...

I was not a happy camper. I mean this isn't our house!!! Luckily it was only dry erase marker and it came up immediately without much elbow grease! Emma Claire actually cleaned it all up herself, my girl loves to clean! I wonder how long that will last??? She enjoyed herself cleaning up her mess and was proud of herself when she had finished! She wanted to keep wiping the floor even when the marker was up...

I know it is hard to tell, but I think she has learned her lesson, at least momentarily. She has drawn on the easel again since and has kept the marker on the board and not the floor. We will see how long it lasts!!

Let The Games Begin...

2009-04-01T22:29:00.005-04:00

Isaac has started his Wee Ball games. His team is the Dodgers and his Coach is Mr. Eddie. He had a blast and can't wait for the next one. They are too cute to watch, half of the players are unsure which way to run and some run around in circles! It is so funny, but a lot of fun too! Enjoy these pics from the first game...He was too cute! He and Emma Claire even "warmed up" before the game...
He got to bat...
He did fairly well running to the bases, once he figured out where they were! He fell once and ran so hard that his hat flew off his head...
He also got to play in the outfield...
but he quickly got bored, so he just entertained himself by singing and dancing...
that's my boy!!! Emma Claire had a great time. She couldn't figure out why she couldn't go on the field, and got upset every time we stopped her...
She did get to play in the dugout some though...
and she enjoyed watching and cheering for her big brother...
It was a great game and Isaac said he had a fun time and wanted to play again soon. THAT WAS AWESOME MOM...
GO DODGERS!!!

Picnic at Brookgreen Gardens

2009-03-28T09:21:00.005-04:00

The Georgetown Hospital System had a picnic for all of its employees and their families. My mom works for them, so we got to go. It was a lot of fun for the kids. They got to win prizes by picking a duck...
Get Tatoos...

Paint Flowerpots...

They even got to plant a seed in the pots! I just wonder if we will be able to grow whatever it is?? They also got to do a 3legged race, with some help from Mommy...
We also ate hamburgers and hotdogs...
There was a scavenger hunt through the gardens that we did, we found all but 1 answer on the adult one and all of the answers on the one for the kids. Isaac got bored, so we let them go into the children's discovery room for a little while. They had fun playing with all of the stuff there...

We had a really great time and were exhausted by the end of the day! GHS did a great job with the picnic and the activities! We can't wait till next year!

Wee Ball Fun...

2009-03-27T18:06:00.003-04:00

Isaac is playing Wee Ball for Georgetown County this year and has had his very first practice. He did great, but got a little frustrated at not being able to catch the ball, and he can not seem to hit the ball off the tee...at least with his right hand. I think we may have a Lefty on our hands!!! He was also afraid of the ball at first, but his coach is GREAT and helped him overcome it, I am sure the fear is not completely gone, but it will over time. Isaac really had a great time! His team is the Dodgers and games start next week! Enjoy these pics from his first practice...

Another Year Older...

2009-03-24T20:23:00.007-04:00

Yes, Mimi is now another year older. And as the day of her birth demands...we all wore GREEN:
(for those of you who haven't figured it out...her birthday is on St. Patrick's day!)
We headed out to the Humble Crumb for dinner, where friends and family gathered for a good meal and a celebration of Mary making it another year...
The food was great and the company was even better. Which was good because it took us about 2 hours just to get out food! The kids had a good time playing and laughing together and we all spent time catching up with each other...

We even had a cake (which suffered a mild infarction upon decorating, but I think I fixed it rather well if I do say so myself)... (I have no idea why it keeps publishing sideways, Sorry!)
and presents for her to open...
We let her open presents while we waited on our food. She got a lot of great stuff...An initial necklace from Isaac and Emma Claire...
A Gamecock Purse from our Mom and Dad...
and a couple of cool Guy Harvey and Carolina Girl tee shirts from Mom and Dad as well...
I think Mimi had a great day and a great party, even with the drama of waiting! HAPPY BIRTHDAY MIMI!! WE LOVE YOU!!!!

A House Divided: A Devotion

2009-03-24T20:11:00.000-04:00

My Mom read this in her devotion the other day and shared it with me. For those of you who know of the events happening right now, you will see how fitting it really is. God knows what he is doing, I thought I would share this with all of you too. Maybe it could touch someone else as it did me!

"An issue of National Geographic included a photograph of the fossil remains of two saber-tooth cats locked in combat. To quote the article:"One had bitten deep into the leg bone of the other, a thrust that trapped both in the common fate of death." Ultimately, this species of cats became extinct. The photograph illustrated Paul's warning in Galatians 5:15: "But if you bite and devour one another, watch out, or you will be consumed by one another."
Where there are two or more people, therre is the potential to "bite and devour one another." The opportunity for conflict and division occurs daily between husbands and wives, parents and children, extended family members, employers and employees, and business partners, as well as within the walls of our churches. Jesus said it like this, "Every kingdom divided against itself is headed for destruction, and no city or house divided against itself will stand" (Matthew 12:25). When we fight with one another, EVERYBODY loses.
During the Protestant Reformation, theologian John Calvin preached that one of Satan's most effective strategies was disunity and division among believers. "Among Christians there ought to be so great a dislike of schism, as that they may always avoid it so fast as lies in their power."
Think of a situation where you've experienced conflict, either as the recipient or the contributor. After you get past all of the accusations and rationalizations that replay in our mind, what caused the conflict? What is the root cause of all relational issues?
My personal conclusion is that it's often because I want my own way. And furthermore, I think my way is the right way! It comes down to one word: pride--the same root that caused Satan to be cast out of heaven. The consequence of pride is always devastation.
Examine your own heart today and identify those prideful attitudes that cause conflict. Yield each one to the Holy Spirit's control so you can be a catalyst for unity in your relationships. When love prevails among believers, especially with there is disagreement, it is a true mark of a follower of Jesus."

Written by Anne Alexander

Our trip to Monroe, NC...Part 2

2009-03-13T10:24:00.005-04:00

On the second day of our trip we headed to the pond at Tara's Uncle's house and went fishing. This was really cool because this was the first time Isaac had ever gotten to go fishing...SHOCKING I know!!! Before we headed out, Jeff and Tara took Isaac to walmart to get him a fishing rod to keep at their house. He chose Spiderman, and when we got to the pond, Jeff had to get it all ready for fishing...
He then showed Isaac how to fish and Isaac eventually caught on, but didn't have a very long attention span...

We all fished for most of the day while Emma Claire ran around and Taylor went for a swim...

Only one person caught a fish all day and that was Tara's mom...
Isaac was excited to see the fish even though he wasn't the one who caught it...
Emma Claire had a little temper tantrum and threw her pacifier into the pond, and it floated away...
Jamey and the kids and the dogs walked around the pong trying to find it, but they had no luck...
That paci is gone, gone, gone!!! We all had a really great day and were pretty tired when we got back home. On Monday we headed back to Georgetown, but not before we made some great memories and had a great time! Thanks for everything Jeff and Tara! We love you and will see you soon!

Our Trip to Monroe, NC...Part 1

2009-03-08T20:06:00.008-04:00

This weekend we spent time in Monroe with Jeff and Tara. We all had a really great time and can't wait to return. On Saturday, we headed to a park while Aunt Tara was coaching softball. The kids got to play and had a great time, when I say kids I mean all three of the ones that live in my house!!!...

They especially had fun when Uncle Jeff ran around and played with them, he was as much a kid as they were! It was so funny to watch them, but they had a blast...
When we had finished up at the park, we headed to Tara's mom and dad's house for some fun on the farm. We went out in the Jeep to see the land... The farm is a beautiful place and we are lucky to be able to take the kids. There was an old fireplace that they use to roast marshmellows and hot dogs. Isaac thought it was too funny that there was a fireplace in the woods...
After our adventures in the woods, we headed to the pond to look around. I was able to get real creek rocks for the Children's Musical "Down by the Creekbank." Jeff and Jamey got the joy of carrying them back to the car...
Isaac then learned how to skip rocks on the pond. He kind of got it, but not really...The most amazing thing happened while we were there. About 6 deer were running from some dogs and ran right across the field in front of us. It was beautiful!!! I actually caught it on film...When we got finished with the day, the kids were EXHAUSTED!!! Isaac fell asleep in the car around 6:30 and slept until the next morning at around 7:30, and even with losing an hour of sleep, that is a lot of sleep!!! Emma Claire was tired but stayed up a little while longer after we got home. We all crashed early and were ready for another day of adventure on Sunday, but that is another post!!

Some Brookgreen Gardens...Education Style

2009-03-08T19:39:00.005-04:00

The weather has turned quite nice the last few days and so we took advantage of the good weather and headed to Brookgreen Gardens last Friday. We decided to take part in some of the educational programs that they have there. We had never done any of them before and had a great time doing so. First we headed to the zoo for a "Mother Nature's Cafe" session, we got to tour the zoo with a guide and watch her feed a few of the animals. This was our guide, Millie, she was a sweet lady who was ever so patient with Isaac and Emma Claire who were the only children on the tour...
When we got to the Aviary, she fed the birds. I thought it was great because this was the first time I actually saw birds in the aviary. Usually they are flying so high that you don't see but one or two...
Then it was on to the Otters, my personal favorite!! She fed them eggs and they would dive down under water to get them and then use their hands to eat with! It was realy cool, this Otter is ready for his egg....
This tree was called the "Novocaine Tree" or "Spiky Tree" I thought it was cool. Millie told us that before the days of modern medicine people would chew on the leaves of this tree to numb their tooth aches. She has tried it herself and says it really works...
The fox den was the last exhibit that we followed the guide on, Isaac was ready to go by that time. But we didn't leave until we saw them actually move. Millie had thrown in some eggs and they must have been hungry... Then it was on to other parts of the Garden until time for the next program..."Meet the Animals." While we waited, I discovered the "Bottle Tree." These bottles were put on the tree as a way to attrack evil spirits away from homes and into the bottles. When the wind blows, you can hear the trapped spirits howling...
The kids entertained themselves by playing on the low garden wall...

Then it was on to the class. Millie was the teacher for it as well and Isaac got to meet three different animals. A Snake....
An Opossum...
and An Owl..
Emma Claire and Daddy hung out in the gardens while Isaac and I were in class because she was too hyper, but Isaac and I learned alot and had a great time! We are so thankful to have season passes this year and look forward to more fun days at Brookgreen Gardens ahead of us!!!

Adventures in Emma Claireville

2009-02-24T12:19:00.004-05:00

Emma Claire has once again landed herself in the hospital! She is like a magnet for these things, at least this time I didn't have to go through the ER. There was a virus going around town and apparently she got it. The problem was that she already has frequent non specific diarrhea and is only 20 lbs. This led to a quick dehydrated state. Her blood work showed that she was dehydrated, but not to a great degree, well apparently between the blood work and going to the hospital that number dropped because it took TWO days to rehydrate her! Here are some pics from our stay:this is how Emma Claire spent the first day and a half in the hospital. Sleeping or laying on my shoulder. For those who know her, this is the opposite of my daughter...She did not feel well, but she had all of her little friends there to help cheer her up...By the afternoon of the second day she was SICK of her crib and wanted to be in the chair...Then she started to act a little more like herself, throwing her toys out of the crib for Granddaddy to pick up... UH_OH...
Greer came to visit and brought her a bunny that sang "Jesus Loves Me". She loved it...
The day we went home, she wanted to call someone on my cell phone, so we called Daddy...
There's my girl, ALL SMILES once again...
Thank you all so much for your thoughts and prayers!!

Valentine's Banquet at Church.

2009-02-24T11:11:00.004-05:00

The Youth at Screven had a fundraiser for camp in the form of a Valentine's Banquet. It was very nice and all the youth did a great job! The food was delicious and the desserts were GREAT...After most of the guests had finished eating, Luke provided some entertainment. Jamey helped him with a card trick...Then Luke and Shelby Lambert did a skit... It was hilarious, but Shelby did a really good job using her hands like they were Luke's considering she couldn't see what she was doing! There was also a photo booth set up to capture everyone's memories. Here are my favorites...

When the banquet was over and we were starting to clean up to leave, Isaac asked for some dessert. This was the result...Then he decided he wasn't so sure that he LIKED having brownie and ice cream all over his face...Until he found out that it tasted just as good off of the face as it did off of the plate...Of course I had to clean him up before I let him in my car!!! The whole evening was a lot of fun and the youth raised a lot of money towards camp! I would call the night a HUGE SUCCESS!!! Thank you Screven Baptist Youth, You guys did a GREAT job!!!

Valentine's Party...

2009-02-24T10:54:00.005-05:00

Isaac's class had a Valentine's Party the day before Valentine's Day and of course I was there to capture all the FUN!!! The kids got to "act" out the nursery rhyme "The King of Hearts". The King of Hearts, He made some Tarts, all on a Summer's Day...
The Knave of Hearts, He stole those tarts, and took them all away...All the kids had "mailboxes" that valentines were put into...
Isaac got a LOT of candy and cards! Before the actually partying started, the kids all went into the play room for a game! They had to keep the paper hearts on the parachute for as long as possible...

It was hysterical to watch them trying so hard! Devan's mommy, Susan, provided Pizza for the party...
and I made JELLO cups for each child...The party was a lot of fun and the kids had a blast, but I was a little sad because this was the last Valentine's Party for Isaac at Mrs. Barbara's School. He is growing up too fast, and though this is a year for a lot of "lasts" at this school, next year wil be full of "firsts" at his new school! Mommy is holding on for the ride...Happy Valentine's Day everyone!!!

A Day at the Park

2009-02-09T12:20:00.006-05:00

After I picked Isaac up from school one afternoon I took the kids to East Bay Park to play. Isaac often gets a little frustrated at this park because he can't do all the of the things, but this day was different...He had grown!! When we got there the kids took off to go play. They were so excited to be out doors and FREEE....
Then the fun began...
Isaac was excited that he was FINALLY big enough to do the firepole and step across to the tower... He could also do the monkey bars... Isaac had fun on the standing swing, which he was not coordinated enough to do the last time we were at the park... And he was FINALLY able to make it to the top of the climbing wall...
Emma Claire liked climbing up the slides... She also took a turn on the climbing wall, but was too little to even make it off the ground...
Her favorite thing was the fire truck bouncer, she even did tricks...
They also had fun playing together on the See Saw and the Swings...

When they were tired of playing, we headed to Morgan Park, Georgetown's "beach". The kids had fun playing on the walkway to the park, even though Emma Claire acted like she could fall through the cracks...
Then it was on to the "beach", Isaac had fun writing his name in the sand...
They also found a large stick in the ground...
I tried to get a nice picture of them on a fallen tree, it took about 5 tries, but I finally got a good one...
Then it was time to head home, but not before the kids stomped on Pine Cones on the way to the car...We had a really fun day and are enjoying our laid back life in Georgetown!!!

AWANA Super Bowl Party

2009-02-09T11:16:00.003-05:00

We had a Super Bowl Party for the kids at AWANA on Super Bowl Sunday. It was a big hit and I think the kids liked it too. Enjoy these pics from the night: Sydney ROCKS ON in the kitchen before AWANA starts...
Batman, no I mean Isaac enters the gym with his fellow cubbies. He has gotten into this thing of wearing his batman mask EVERYWHERE!!...
Isaac and Ward appear to be having a conversation during the opening ceremony of AWANA instead of paying attention (imagine that!)...
Sydney slides into the center to score a touchdown for her team in the Idaho Spud Bowl...
Emma Claire gets some food too, Aunt Lisa always takes care of her baby... Ward is ready to run and get the potatoes for his team in the Idaho Spud Bowl...
Isaac and Ellbie hold up a wall during their snack/game time...
Singing the Cubbies song at the top of their lungs...This was a fun night at AWANA and we all look forward to many more wonderful nights together ministering for our Lord!!!

A Chilly trip to the Beach...

2009-02-09T10:10:00.011-05:00

My mom and dad went over to North Myrtle Beach for a minication and invited us to spend the day one day. We had a great time with them! When we got there the kids had to explore the condo...

They really liked the balcony and the view from it, even though it was VERY windy up there...
After spending a little time in the condo, we got ready to go swimming. Yes, I said swimming in January!! There was an indoor heated pool and the kids had a BLAST...

When we got tired of swimming we went back to the condo to rest and eat lunch, then we headed out to the beach to walk...

The kids had fun picking up feathers off the beach and chasing the seagulls...
Emma Claire enjoyed the sand, well sort of...
We also found a playground for the kids to play on...

Emma Claire loved the little table and chairs that they had in the playgroung, she kept moving them all over the place, it was hilarious (the chairs were as big as she is!)...
Later that evening Jamey, Mary and Luke joined us for dinner, but before they got there we gave the kids a little snack. Of course Isaac made it his own and gave a whole new meaning to jelly filled donut...

Emma Claire tried to do the same thing, but her mouth wasn't big enough...
After dinner we headed back to the pool for some more fun! Luke found a way to make water shoot out of a hole in the ground from the hot tub and the kids just thought it was great...

Luke also jumped into the pool outside which was not heated...We all knew he was a little crazy and would try anything, but it was COLD!!! I am surprised he didn't get sick! Before we left to head home, Isaac wanted hot chocolate, so mom made him some and put it in a pepsi bottle for us to take with us...Isaac and Emma Claire had a great day and are looking forward to the next adventure we will have...stay tuned!!!

A Day at Brookgreen

2009-01-15T09:40:00.009-05:00

Last Saturday we headed to Brookgreen Gardens for the day. We got season passes for Christmas and it was a pretty day so we decided to go. We had a great day together and the weather was perfect, even though it was January. We started out by looking at some of the sculptures in the gardens...The kids saying the "Pledge of Allegiance" or at least trying to...I love this picture of the kids walking into the gardens, they can be so sweet when they want to be...This was one of my favorite statues, but please notice the frazzled daddy in the background. Isaac is on his back and Emma Claire is trying to run away!! I had to laugh, sorry Jamey!...Mary enjoyed her conversation with Baloo the Bear (not real sure what they talked about!)...Isaac and Emma Claire loved the Butterfly bench....But we were all getting a little hungry, so we headed out of the Statuary to have out picnic. The kids got a "swinging ride" to the picnic area...
We had a great time at our picnic and even took a minute to have pictures made at the pond... We headed back inside the gardens and headed to the zoo, on the way we discovered a new attraction at Brookgreen. The Children's Discovery room, my kids were so excited that we spent about an hour inside...They got to dig for artifacts...
Emma Claire had fun coloring a wood disc necklace...
Isaac's favorite part was getting to look at objects under a magnifying glass...
When we were finally able to drag them out of the room, we headed to the Zoo. The kids had a great time looking at all of the animals...The otters were our favorites...
we didn't see any real alligators, but the kids had fun "tackling" the statue of one!...
I thought that the bald eagles were beautiful...
We had a really great day, but by the time we headed home, the kids were DONE...

And I look away for just a second....

2009-01-09T16:11:00.004-05:00

Let me start by saying that I am SUPER proud of Isaac...he is riding his bicycle!! This is a kid who wouldn't even LOOK at his Tricycle, but I think that my parents had the right idea with a big boy bike...

The other day he wanted to ride it all the way to Great Grandmama's house (right up the street) and we did. Grandmama came out to look at the bike and watch him ride for a minute. While I was talking to my Grandmama, I turned my back for a second and this is what I heard. "Mommy, look what Emma Claire found, Emma Claire if you put your feet in it they disappear!!"...I turned around to discover that my two beautiful CLEAN fun loving children had discovered quite the "little" mud puddle! So being the mother that I am and understanding the value of childhood...I LET THEM PLAY!! Isaac was so excited that he made a big splash...and of course they were MUD MONSTERS...
By the time we headed back to the house they were both soaking wet (luckily it was 72 degrees that day) and muddy from head to toe, but laughing the whole time. I asked them if they had fun and got a resounding YES!!! It was all worth it! Needless to say they both got stripped in the garage and taken to the tub, but the memories were worth it! After all, Our lives are not made up of the days and hours, but of the memories we make in the minutes we are given!!!