Floyd Family

Our Nephew, Beckham Grant, Has Arrived

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 03:45:00 +0000

This afternoon around 12:30 pm, Beckham Grant Floyd was born. We are so happy for Nick, Meredith and big sister Reese. I had to post this picture below. Isn't he precious?! Check out Meredith's blog for more pictures HERE.

We already love you SO much baby Beck! Your cousins can't wait to teach you how to throw a football.

Peyton's First Choir Debut

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 03:42:00 +0000

(I posted three new entries tonight. I'm trying to get caught up before I got too far behind.)

This fall Peyton has been going to our children's choir program at church. He has really enjoyed it. Last night was their first time perform in the service for us. On the way to church, he told me he was just going to stand on stage and not sing. However, once he got up there he did sing plus added a few moves. ;)

I put a video of one of the songs Peyton sang on youtube. The link is HERE.

Trick or Treating

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 03:19:00 +0000

This was the boys first year to go Trick or Treating. The boys loved going around our neighborhood and gathering TONS of candy. Cousin Reese was able to join us this year since they just moved down the street. We're excited to have them in the neighborhood with us! I made some chili for dinner and after that we all headed out.

Here is Peyton the lion, Parker the giraffe, and Reese the cowgirl.

Our lion hiding in the bushes.

Parker was never still long enough to get his picture Halloween night so this was taken during his fall party at school.

Off they go...

Peyton's bucket was full by the end of the night. This was at the half way point.

Trick or Treat...more candy please.

Happy Birthday Nana!

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 03:11:00 +0000

Last week we celebrated my Mom's birthday by eating at Doe's in Fayetteville. We hope you have another great year. We love you and appreciate all you do for our family! Happy Birthday Nana!!!

Peyton, Parker, and Surprise!!

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 02:00:00 +0000

I haven't written an update on the boys in a while and I need to write it all down before I forget and they move onto something else. These pictures were taken by my friend, Blaire Perry, a couple of weeks ago. Thank you, Blaire!

PEYTON:

I am amazed how much he acts like a big boy! Last week we had his first conference with his K4 teacher. As she was going through the list of things that he has already learned in only 9 weeks of school, I kept thinking, "how did my baby boy grow up so fast?" He is writing his name, recognizing his letters and sounds, finally holding the pencil correctly and much more. I'm amazed how well he can stay in the lines when coloring. He for sure didn't get that from Josh or I! He loves school and all his new friends. Peyton loves his role as the "big brother." And he often reminds Parker that he is older and was the first one in my tummy, not Parker. I love to watch him care for Parker and teach him new things. During the Friday night football games he loves to try and figure out everything that is going on during the game. He always wants to know, "why this or that?" He also loves to watch the tubas in the band. Yes, my baby is growing up but I'm loving this stage of life he is in. It's so fun and I love to listen to him talk and act silly. Peyton definitely is a fire ball and keeps our family laughing all the time.

PARKER:

Oh my, sweet Parker boy. He is for sure ALL boy. He loves big trucks and anything that goes fast. He is rough and always making a mess. He keeps us on our toes at all time! He is the quiet and sneaky one of the family. Just as I think I have the house picked up, I turn around and may find a entire box of Cascade or lotion spread all over the floor. He is also our sensitive one. As soon as he hurts someone or someone is upset he is the first to run and give you a big hug along with a wet slobbery kiss. He likes to please. He is my number one helper. I can always count on him to throw things away or put clothes in the washer with me. He is talking more clearly these days. He is happiest when he is playing with his brother. You can tell in his eyes how much he looks up to Peyton.

SURPRISE!!!:

Yes, we are expecting Baby #3. After a few tears from being shocked, I am beyond excited about having this blessing join our family June 2010! Last week we had our first doctor appointment. We got to listen to the heartbeat and see it fluttering on the ultrasound screen. I am feeling pretty icky and exhausted these days. However, I know this is a good sign. Both boys are excited. (Peyton more than Parker.) It so sweet to hear the boys pray for the baby during bedtime prayers. I can't wait to see what the Lord has planned for this baby and what he/she will look like.

I'll update the blog with pictures early next week with pictures of the boys in their Halloween costumes. We will be skipping the Hog game and doing some trick or treating.

Fire Station and Hog Game

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 02:44:00 +0000

Last week Peyton's class and the rest of the K4 classes took their first field trip to the Tontitown Fire Department. He had been looking forward to this for weeks. However, I think his favorite part ended up being getting to ride the school bus to and from the fire station. The Mom's were invited to come and meet them at the F.D. and then have lunch with the kids at the park across the street. It was fun getting to watch our kids play while we all talked. Here is Peyton's class with their wonderful teacher, Mrs. Brunton.

Peyton waiting for his turn to get in the fire truck.

I love his smile! He looks so proud.

Last Saturday we took Parker to his first Razorback football game. We were playing the Auburn Tigers. Parker was pretty overwhelmed but had a lot of fun. Both kids were so distracted with everything going on around us they were in no mood for pictures. It didn't help that my camera battery died before the game even started. Josh's former high school coach is Auburn's offensive coordinator. Josh was glad to talk to him a few minutes before the game began. Josh also had a former player from Shiloh that played most of the game for Auburn. It was fun to watch him play again.

This was our attempt at a family picture...it just wasn't happening.

Parker wouldn't take his eyes off the field. He was trying so hard to figure it all out.

If he wasn't looking at the field he had his eyes on my big cup of coke below that he wanted some so badly. I might have shared a little with him which might explain the energy burst he had in the 2nd half.

Snuggling with my Peyton. Luckily it started warming up some after this picture was taken.

One of my brother in law's friends, Will, took this cool picture below of Ronnie, Josh, Parker, and Nick at the game.

After the game we took the kids home to have a quick nap and then headed to downtown Fayetteville for family pictures, taken by my good friend, Blaire. The kids were much more corporative with Blaire and her camera than they were with my camera at the game. I can't wait to see them! After pictures we went to one of my favorite places to eat, Bizy's. I love their grilled salmon and sweet potatoes. It's delish and was a great way to end our Saturday.

Woooo Pig Sooie!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 18:51:00 +0000

This past weekend we went to Dallas to watch Arkansas and A&M play at the new Dallas Cowboy stadium. It was so much fun especially since the Hogs won. We went with Josh's parents, the Barnards and the Hudsons. Below are some of the pictures from our Dallas trip. I hope we get to go back next year!

Walking up to the Dallas Cowboy stadium.

Watching the Hogs!

I knew my future sister in law, Jessica, would be at the game but I didn't expect her and her friends to be sitting RIGHT across the isle from us! The stadium is so BIG that it was crazy our seats were by each other. It was also fun to run into other NWA friends at the game too.

While we were gone, Peyton and Parker stayed with my parents for two nights. My parent's big birthday present for the boys this year, was a new swing set for Nana and Grandaddy's house. It was set up just in time for their stay this weekend. I think they spent most of their time on this while we were gone. Thank you Grandaddy and Nana SO much for watching our boys for us!

Of course no trip is complete without bringing back something for the kiddos. Poppy and GiGi bought these new Cowboy jersery's for the boys. They had to put them on the second they saw them. Thanks GiGi and Poppy!

Side note: Both boys are really into the "forced smile look"-see below. I'm sure it will make our family pictures, that are being taken in a few days, very interesting. Wish us luck. =)

Peyton's Birthday Celebrations

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 17:30:00 +0000

Today is Peyton's forth birthday! It seems like he should still be my newborn baby like in this picture below. Where does time go? He doesn't act much like a toddler anymore but like such a big boy now.

Since he is in school today on his birthday we celebrated it last Saturday. And it seems like we celebrated ALL day long for him. That morning had his party at Fun City with his friends. It was so funny watching all of them interact and have a great time together. Here's Peyton about to eat a piece of his Shark cake. He was thrilled, can't you tell?

These were my instructions for his cake this year: four sharks but one of them has to be a big hammer head shark, a few little fish and one tiny boat. Well, I a local bakery was able to make it just right for him. When we went to pick it up, the lady showed the cake to Peyton and he started jumping up and down saying, "This is the perfect cake!" Can you tell I have a boy that is really into details?

Mr. Parkerman digging into his piece.

It's present time.

After Peyton's party we came home and all took little power naps. Then we went to tailgate before the Hog game with friends. Parker stayed with my Mom because the game wasn't going to get over until it late. Thanks, Nana!

We gave this Arkansas helmet to Peyton for his birthday and of course he had to bring it to the game with him.

Josh and I before the game started.

My friend, Ashley, stopped by to see us.

Tonight we are letting Peyton chose where to eat dinner. He wants Chick-fil-a but his Mommy and Daddy are trying to talk him into Abuelos. I'm pretty sure the birthday boy will win and have his way tonight. Happy Birthday, Peyton! We couldn't be more proud of you than we are. I can't wait to see what God has planned for you! We love you SO much!

Big Win, Wild Animals, and Teeth

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 01:46:00 +0000

(Yes, I know...very random title. I couldn't help it.)

Last Friday night Shiloh won a HUGE game! I've never been to a game like it. It was pretty much back and forth the whole night. We played Evangel, a team from LA, a national powerhouse. Last year they killed us but this year we came prepared. I was so nervous the whole day. And since it was a packed stadium and live on TV, Fox Sports, it made my nerves even higher. It was so much fun. Several people have said it was the best high school football game they had seen in their life. I have to agree. We won in the last few seconds of the game. I am so happy for all our players and coaches!

The coaching staff after the big win!

This is Kiehl, Josh's QB. He already has offers from Arkansas and Auburn.

Last week my Mom and I went to a local consignment store and we bought these lion and giraffe costumes. The boys love them. Madagascar is one of their favorite movies so they have been referring to each other as "Alex" and "Melman" all week. Peyton was going to be Spiderman again this Halloween but I have a feeling he might change his mind and be a lion.

The boys with Uncle Rick.

Running through Nana and Grandaddy's (my parents) yard like wild animals with Abby the dog.

Last week I took Parker to his first dental appointment. He did pretty good for the first time. Only a few tears near the end of the visit. Next week I take Peyton for his cleaning. Pray for him and I. He never enjoys the dentist and lets us all know about it. I took this picture to show Peyton it really is okay to relax instead of clinging onto me the whole time. Poor thing.

Football Is Here & Parker Goes to School

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 01:27:00 +0000

Football is here! Monday we played Fayetteville High in a scrimmage game and we won 42-23. It was a big win for us and I was excited for all our players and the coaches. Our first real game is a week from tonight! We play Evangel from Shreveport, LA at our stadium. Here's a few pictures from Monday night's game.

Cousin Reese and Parker, with a mouth full of popcorn.

Peyton and his buddy Carter.

Touchdown Shiloh!

Today was Parker's first day of Kid's Day Out. Parker was so excited to go to"cool ike Bubba." (AKA: School like Bubba. That's what he said over and over while we were on our way there.) We stopped by Daddy's office on our way to his class.

Two of my boys.

This year Reese and Parker are in the same class and they are so excited about it. Parker's teacher said he had a great first day.

Also, please be praying for our good friends, The Kennedy's. They will be spending the next couple of months living in Africa, along with their four young kids, working in an orphanage. Even though we are missing them like crazy, we know this is God's plan and His plan is perfect! I can't wait to hear all their amazing stories they are experiencing and what God is doing in their lives and the others around them. We love you, Kennedy's, and are praying daily for you! You can learn more about their journey HERE.

Peyton's First Day

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 01:54:00 +0000

Today was Peyton's first day of K4 at Shiloh. He said his favorite time was playing outside and rest time. I laughed when he said, "rest time" because he never likes to sleep at home. So I'm not sure what that is all about. He also went to P.E. and Spanish class today. This year, I let him pick out his own backpack and lunch box for the first time and it was a mistake. I'm okay with the back pack but I do not like his Wii Mario Kart lunch box that he is in LOVE with.

Mrs. Brunton showing Peyton where he will put his lunch box everyday.

He loved playing with the "monkey game" last week at Meet The Teacher and he ran right back to it as soon as he walked in the door.

Saying bye to Parker. Poor Parker asked me all day, "Where Bubba go?" Parker was fine without him though. I spoiled him with the doughnut shop, chick-fil-a, and a cookie from the mall.

What We've Been Up To

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 03:11:00 +0000

This past week was so busy. Here is just a few of the things we did.

We had lunch with Ashley and Emily and our kids at Chick-fil-a. Emily's cousin is my future sister in law. It was great to catch up with these sweet girls and let the kids play.

Friday was "Meet the Teacher" day at Shiloh. I can't believe Peyton will be starting K4. He can't wait to go back on Tuesday for the first real day of school. Here is Peyton with Mrs. Brunton. We are excited she will be his teacher for the year.

Peyton at his desk.

This afternoon Parker decided to try and break out of his crib during nap time. I'm not sure what we are going to do with him! We're not ready to move him out of his crib yet but he keeps doing things to tear it up. First, it was the bumper pads, then biting around the edge of the crib, now breaking a rail. The joy of having boys!

Tonight my parents gave us tickets to the Natural's game. All of my family that lives in town also came, along with some friends of ours. It was the perfect night to sit outside and watch some baseball.

Parker eating pizza with Grandaddy (my Dad).

Peyton was playing a game on my phone when Rick (my bro) decided to call.

The Hudson's! Rod was there too but he had already left at this point.

Rick and Jessica. I can't wait for their wedding next June!

The boys with D and Josh as we were leaving the game. Thanks, Mom and Dad for the tickets!

Parker Turns Two

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 02:16:00 +0000

Yesterday we celebrated Parker's birthday. I can't believe my baby is now two! It seems just like yesterday he surprised us with his early arrival. Today you would never know he was a preemie and spent some time in the NICU at the beginning of his life. He is now a busy two year old with TONS of energy. I thank God every day for choosing me to be Parker's Mommy. He is so much fun and always lights up a room with his huge dimple smile and big blue eyes. He loves to please people and make them laugh. Below are a couple pictures of my baby Parker.

Parker had a pool at our neighborhood's pool and clubhouse with family and friends. It was hot but the kids had a blast. Here are a few pictures of the big boy enjoying his day.

Getting some help blowing out the candles by Peyton.

He LOVED all his presents.

This card sang "The Itsy Bitsy Spider." So cute.

Floating with his buddy, Jackson.

He drove this new truck around the edge of the kid pool a million times.

Parker was so tired after his party. We had to wake him up after his almost four hour nap. Thanks to all who made this day special for our Parker Man!

Tulsa Trip

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 02:54:00 +0000

A few days ago we took the boys to the Tulsa Aquarium. We had so much fun on our quick trip. While we were there, we also ate at Ted's Mexican Restaurant and the Cheesecake Factory for an afternoon snack before we headed home. Both places are our favorite place to eat over there and so good! Here are a few pictures from our trip. The highlight of the day was the boys getting to feed the stingrays and turtles.

Feeding the turtles...

Notice the shark over Peyton's head...

Broken Paci and Date Night

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 02:54:00 +0000

The time had come for Parker to learn to sleep without his Paci. My goal all along was for it to be gone by the time he turned 2 and he turns 2 in just over a week. I tried this a couple of months ago but he started sucking his fingers and I didn't want to break a habit just to pick up another one. So I gave his paci back and decided to try again later. Saturday night I poked a few holes in it. Then on Sunday night I cut the end off and showed it to him and told him his was broken. After a few whines, he was fine with it. He wouldn't even let me put it in his bed with him to just "hold." He wanted it thrown away, so we did just that. I couldn't believe he went right to sleep without it. Here is the last picture taken a few days ago with his paci.

Now we will be getting to see this handsome dimple smile a lot more.

Tonight Josh surprised me and said Emily was coming over to watch the boys while he was going to take me out for dinner. I didn't know where he was going to take me but I did have a few ideas. =) We ended up at Ruth's Chris. It was so yummy! He also surprised me with a beautiful new necklace that I love. Thank you, Josh, for a fun night out! You're the best!

By the way, I can't believe this cute kid below starts preschool in just 3 weeks at Shiloh! He is turning into such a big boy way too quickly!

My Brother is Engaged

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 02:03:00 +0000

We had a very excited weekend! After four years of dating, on Friday night, my brother asked Jessica to marry him! We are so happy she will officially be joining our family. She is precious and just perfect for my brother! We love her so much! It's funny how things turn out because Jessica's cousin, Emily, is one of my good friends that I went to school with at Shiloh while growing up.

After a nice dinner in North Little Rock, Rick told Jessica that he had to pick up something at my Aunt's house. When they went around back she heard music playing and this is what she saw....

This was half of the screened in porch...the other half she found these.

She was so shocked and of course there were happy tears! She also had another surprise. Jessica's family had planned an engagement party a couple of neighborhoods down the street. So Rick brought her over there after they left my Aunt's house. She thought only her Mom and Dad would be there. Here is a picture of people starting to arrive at the party and waiting on Rick and Jessica to show up to surprise them. It was held at Jessica's Uncle's house around the pool.

Peyton and I with Lexy, Jessica's best friend. We couldn't wait till they got to the party! Peyton was my date that night. Josh had a football tournament at the U of A and Parker stayed with my Brother in law and Sister in law back in Rogers.

Here's the cake. It was so good.

One of the beautiful tables.

Here are Rick and Jessica when they first arrived at the party. She was so shocked to see everyone there to celebrate! It was perfect.

Jessica walking down the stairs to see her Mom. I love this picture!

The happy couple!

I made Rick take this goofy picture with his "engaged" cup. =)

Jessica's BEAUTIFUL ring!

Peyton with his buddy Uncle Rick. (I'm not sure why this pic is so small)

This is our family with Jessica's parents and her sister, Lauren. It was almost 11:00 at night and Peyton was not in the mood for pictures by this point.

Congrats Rick and Jessica! We love you both so much! Can't wait for your wedding next summer!

Florida Pictures

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 13:11:00 +0000

We are back from our Destin vacation! This year we spent one week with my family on the beach and the following week with Josh's family. We were so blessed to spend that time away with our families. Our boys loved every minute and had so much fun playing while getting spoiled by the grandparents for nearly two weeks. Peyton is already asking to go back. We are glad to be back in town but still missing the beach.

Enjoy the pictures below...there are a lot of them! Also, check out Meredith's blog for more about our trip. She does a great job telling the story about us getting stuck in an elevator while at a friend's house in Seaside! We were freaking out!!

Jessica, Peyton, Josh, Parker, Kate and my brother, Rick.

The four of us with my parents, Rick and his girlfriend, Jessica.

Uncle Rick and the boys.

Sweet brothers.

Running from the waves.

My love.

Cousin Reese and the boys.

Dinner with Josh's family. Meredith's sister watched the kids that night.

Kids and Meredith's sister, Abby.

4th of July on the beach.

The boys, Reese and GiGi watching the fireworks from our balcony.

Here's a picture from our beach trip last year. A year can make a huge difference! Peyton was going through the terrible two's and Parker hated the sand at the time! It was still fun but a lot of hard work. Needless to say, this year it was much easier keeping everyone happy.

Swim Ranch

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 19:52:00 +0000

Last week Peyton and Parker took swim lessons with Ms. Virgina at the Swim Ranch. Peyton loved every minute and did so good! It took Parker a couple of days to decide if he was going to like the water or not. By Wednesday, he was loving it just like his Bubba. Peyton's class was at 9am and Parker's was at 10am. So my Mom or Jeana would come and sit with whoever was out of the pool. A BIG thanks to Nana and Gigi! Here are the pictures of the boys swimming.

The boys loved Ms. Virgina! She also taught me to swim when I was a child at the Swim Ranch. I'm glad my boys didn't take after me because Mom says I just screamed the whole time during my lessons.

Peyton and Mommy ready for class to begin.

Relaxing on his back.

Dog paddling across the pool (30 feet!) with Ms. Leni.

Bubba was waiting on the other side to give Peyton a big high five!

Parker's turn for his class.

Swimming to Ms. Virgina.

Learning to float on his back.

His favorite part was toy time at the end of each lesson.

The boys were so excited to get their certificate (Peyton says "award") at the end of the week. Parker was tucking it under his arm because he thought someone was going to take it. He is all about the word "MINE!" Can't wait for next year!

Loving His Bike

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 11:45:00 +0000

Last week we let Peyton pick out his first real bike at Walmart and of course he chose the Spiderman one. It took a a few days to figure it all out. But yesterday, he took things to a new level and he is racing all over our neighborhood now. We're so proud of you, Peyton!

Waiting for Bubba to catch up on his tricycle.

Ms. Avery Elisabeth

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 02:32:00 +0000

Our good friends, Ashley and Chad, welcomed their little baby girl into the world this morning. Ash and I met in 6th grade and she was one of my best friends growing up. Check out Ashley's blog, here, for more pictures of precious Avery. And while you're there, scroll down to see pictures of her nursery. This little Diva has such a fun room!

Congrats Chad and Ashley! Can't wait to watch our kiddos grow up together.

Fun in May

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 01:58:00 +0000

I can't believe it is already June! I guess it's true, time flies when you're having fun. Peyton will turn four in three months and Parker is a few days shy of being 22 months old. I'm not ready to be a Mom to a 4 and 2 year old yet. They are growing up too fast! Here are some random pictures from the month of May.

Peyton made this flower pot at KDO for my Mother's Day present. He was so excited when the flower began to bloom.

Boys at Shiloh's spring football practice watching Daddy coach. Their favorite part was the popsicles after the practices.

This year Daddy let Peyton come to Shiloh's youth football camp a couple years early. He loved being around the older kids and felt so big.

Parker going on an early morning walk with Mommy.

Grandaddy and Peyton fishing at their pond.

Parker trying out his new mower.

Animals came to visit the last day of KDO. I can't believe this was his last year at KDO and he will be starting K4 at Shiloh this fall.

Here's Parker with the shirt he made his last day of KDO.

Parker refueling with water from Poppy, while swimming at the pool.

I'll be dragging this pool out when I'm too lazy to take them to the neighborhood pool.

We are excited June is here and it won't be long till we'll be on the beach very soon!

Memorial Day

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Tue, 26 May 2009 13:24:00 +0000

We went to a cookout last night at my parents house for Memorial Day. My grandparents, Rick (my brother), Nick (Josh's brother) and his family all joined us over there for Dad's smoked BBQ and to swim in their pool. Enjoy the pictures below.

Parker and cousin Reese on the pool steps

Peyton trying to drink the water-gross!

I love this smile!

This made me a little nervous but Parker's not scared of anything!

Reese loved this swing. This was the same swing I used when I was a child.

Meredith and I enjoying strawberries shortcake with our feet in the hot tub.

Rick and Josh

Uncle Nick, Josh and the boys.

My Mom and I

The boys with my Grandparents.

The boys with my Dad. They love their Grandaddy!

Happy Birthday to Josh, GiGi, and Reese

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Sun, 17 May 2009 01:29:00 +0000

This past week we celebrated 3 birthdays in the Floyd family. Tuesday was Josh's, Wednesday was GiGi's, and today we celebrated Reese's. For Josh's birthday we celebrated by having a cookout at his parent's house. We ate great food and had lots of fun.

Josh, we love love you so much. You are the best husband and Daddy in the world! You mean the world to the boys and I. Thanks for always making us so happy. Hope you enjoy your last year in the twenties!!

Wednesday was GiGi's birthday! This year we celebrated her birthday and Mother's Day together on Sunday with a nice meal after church on Sunday. We love our GiGi!

Today we celebrated Reese's 2nd birthday at Chuk E Cheese. The boys and Reese had so much fun running wild and playing all the games. Reese, I can't believe you are turning 2! It seems like just yesterday your Mommy and I were pregnant with you and Parker while dreaming of the day you both would be born. We love you SO much, Reese. We can't wait for you to come spend the night with us next week!!

This is Reese today after eating her Princess cake.

Mother's Day

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Mon, 11 May 2009 20:35:00 +0000

I am so thankful God has chosen me to be the Mom to my two precious boys. I couldn't imagine my life without them in it. They make me smile and laugh everyday and I LOVE them to pieces!!! Josh did a great job helping them pick out gifts for me. They gave me beautiful flowers and a giftcard to a spa.

This was taken yesterday before we went to church.

Below is a picture of my Mom and the boys last summer in Watercolor, FL. I love her so much and so do my boys! My Mom is one of my best friends and I know I can ALWAYS count on her. She does so much for us, too much to list here! Thanks Mom for everything and for being such a wonderful Nana to our boys!

Below is my Mother in Law, Jeana, with Parker. I have the best MIL ever! She is so sweet. I am thankful we are so close and always have a great time together. Jeana, thank you for raising Josh and doing such a great job. We love our GiGi.

The month of May always involves a lot of celebrating at our house. Tomorrow is Josh's birthday (#29!!!), Wednesday is my MIL's birthday and the following week my niece, Reese, will turn 2! It's always so much fun and we eat way too much birthday cake for one month!

The Hubby Can Cook

noreply@blogger.com (Josh and Kate) — Mon, 04 May 2009 02:23:00 +0000

*Picture from Pauladeen.com*

Yesterday, Josh decided he wanted to cook some BBQ. I do the majority of the cooking at our house but it is a nice surprise when he wants to cook us a meal. Not only because it gives me a break but because he is such a great cook! This time he tried a new recipe, BBQ pork sandwiches, from Paula Deen. It was so good and I thought I would share the recipe for your next summer BBQ. You won't be disappointed. We bought the pork from Richard's Meat Market, it's always the best.

Ingredients:

Dry rub:

2 tablespoons salt
2 tablespoons black pepper
2 tablespoons dark brown suga
2 tablespoons paprika
1/2-tablespoon cayenne

4 pound shoulder pork roast
2-cup apple juice
1-cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire
1/2-tablespoon liquid smoke
1/2-tablespoon garlic powder
6 soft hamburger buns with seeds
Paula Deen’s Original BBQ sauce
Coleslaw

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

Mix the dry rub ingredients in small bowl. Sprinkle dry rub all over the pork roast, pressing into the pork.

Cover with plastic and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Combine liquid ingredients and the garlic powder in a medium bowl and pour into a large Dutch oven. Place pork in the oven and tightly cover with aluminum foil then lid. Roast for 4 hours or until fork tender and shreds easily.

Brush the roast with cooking liquid every hour.

Remove from oven and let stand until cool enough to handle. Shred the pork with a fork or tongs into bite size pieces.

Serve on hamburger buns topped with BBQ sauce and cole slaw.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Inactive Prep Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Ease of Preparation: Easy
Yield: 6 servings

It always seems to taste a little better when the hubby offers to go to the store and buy all the ingredients, with both kids, and arrive back at the house with everything plus my favorite, yellow tullips. =) Thanks honey, you're the best! I know I'm blessed.