The Judds

Breakfast with Santa 2010

2010-12-04T11:32:00.000-05:00

I organized a 'Breakfast with Santa' for my neighborhood this morning - we had it at a local restaurant and thru some very good connections I have, was able to get Santa Claus, live in the flesh to come to our little shindig. All had a great time. I was shocked when Carter hopped on Santa's lap with no problem. My boys were even more shocked when Santa handed them Star Wars figurines! Oh how I love the innocent wonder they have at this age!

Pilgrims & Indians

2010-12-01T11:34:00.000-05:00

So grateful for my little pilgrim & indian!

Darth Turkey

2010-11-30T15:53:00.000-05:00

Like many kindergarteners, Anderson had the duty of 'disguising' a turkey to avoid being served up for Thanksgiving dinner! How did he decide to disguise his turkey? Darth Vader um Turkey. Too cute - I actually enjoyed helping in this 'assignment'! Darth Turkey was complete with cape and light saber (red, of course)!

Our 1st Slumber Party

2010-11-04T16:53:00.000-04:00

For Anderson's 6th birthday party - I was stumped for ideas!!! We have new sod we just laid in the backyard and we really didn't want a bunch of boys rolling & tackling each other on the sod just yet, so I was scrounging for ideas. I didn't want to spend tons of money and we didn't want to invite a gazillion kids - just the boys Anderson spends a lot of time with. We nearly had the party at a good friend's home but in the end we opted for sheer bravery. We invited 4 of Anderson's best buddies to come spend the nite! I was told my dozens and dozens of my bravery (or foolishness) but I was confident in these boys and their behavior. If I wasn't convinced 100% that they would all be well behaved then I would not have gone this route. The boys were perfect - truly, we had zero conflict and I never even had to do a second-call for lights-out. I turned the lights out and I never heard another peep!! We had to get up and going the next morning as 4 of the 5 boys play on the same baseball team so we had to get all dressed in their uniforms, teeth brushed, fed with special chocolate chip Star Wars panakes, etc!

hard to corral 6 boys including Carter for a candid pic -- note all the bare chests! ;)

enjoying ice creama cake

in PJs enjoying 'It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown"

Race to Rally Hope 5K

2010-11-04T16:40:00.000-04:00

My good friend Jill is a beginner runner (not that I'm an old seasoned runner), but I told her if she found a local 5K I'd run it with her. We signed up to do 'Race to Rally Hope' which has a 5K, 10K and a kids fun-run. We decided to sign the boys up for the fun-run figuring it would be a fun thing for them to do. It was a great morning -a bit cool, but perfect for running. Jill did fabulous and ran the whole thing. My only disappointment is that I didn't sign up for the 10K- it was essentially another loop of the 5K course so I could have kept on running, but oh well. Live and learn!!! Up next, I plan on training for a 1/2 marathon. I'm excited!

Evan & Anderson nearing the finish line!

all participants got a medal

all the 'runners'

so our men ended up having to give the 3 year olds a major assist - they weren't as interested in running as their big brothers!

Of all days!

2010-11-04T16:29:00.000-04:00

Anderson turned 6 on Friday, October 15th. We had such a celebration planned - especially since his big day landed on a Friday - I planned on 'cooking' in his class (a special treat), bringing him & a buddy a special lunch from Wendy's (his favorite), we had gifts laid out, donuts on the table, the big 6 year old sleepover party lined up - and guess who got sick Thursday nite!!!!! As me & Mark went to bed Thursday nite, Anderson greeted us crying and burning up a fever. My heart was breaking - the school rule was that they have to stay out of school for 24 hours after having a fever. It didn't make a difference, he woke up burning up on Friday too. It was official - Anderson was sick and had to stay home from school on his birthday!!! To boot, we obviously had to cancel his bday party that nite as well. I was soooo sad for him - of all days!! Since he began preschool he has never missed a day of school for sickness, so I couldn't believe it!!! I kept telling Mark 'God wants us to learn a lesson in this timing'. I'm not sure I know, or I'll ever know, but because we had to cancel his birthday essentially, Anderson seemed to benefit from birthday celebrations a bit longer than usual!

Anderson is such a blessing to our family - with his 'strong willed' personality, there is never a dull moment with Anderson. He keeps us on our toes for sure. He is so smart and is excelling at school. He is showing to be a good little athlete too. "Little" being the key word. At his 6 year check-up he weighs in at a whopping 38 pounds - -he measures at the 10%ile in both height and weight. As much as this little man challenges me, he is my pride and joy and I feel so honored that God entrusted Mark & I with him!!!

the birthday boy, home sick opening his gifts....

Pumpkin Patch 2010

2010-11-04T15:40:00.000-04:00

We got smart this year and beat the crowds to the pumpkin patch! Instead of waiter for October and cooler weather, we fooled 'em all by heading in the still hot summer GA weather in September!!! We still had perfect landscapes surrounding us (who cares the leaves weren't turning colors yet?) and we had our pick of the 'patch. Some great picture opportunities as usual and we had a great time with great friends -- looking forward to next year already!

Carter & Anderson

my little punkin

the Judds

Braves vs Cardinals

2010-11-04T14:09:00.004-04:00

Evan the Cardinals fan, Anderson the Braves fan

the Judds, summer 2010

all the boys with Jake

watching the game intently!

So Anderson is a die-hard Braves fan. It started last year but really cranked up this season. He knew most of the key players and their respective positions, he would be sad if bedtime came before the end of the Braves game (which is often the case) and his 1st question out of his mouth in the morning would be "Did the Braves win?". Loves loves loves baseball. He went to his first major league Braves game last summer but this summer we knew we had to get him to at least one game. Of course the entire summer had almost come and gone when we knew we had to get to a game. Our best GA friends, the O'Neills wanted to go to a game too. Jill's baby brother is a pitcher for the St Louis Cardinals (Jake Westbrook) and the perfect opportunity came up - - the Cardinals were playing the Braves at home on a Saturday nite AND Jake was the starting pitcher. What a perfect storm of opportunity! So we were able to go to the game, sit in perfect seats, cheer on a dear friend's brother all the while cheering on our Braves. The game went into 4 extra innings - bonus baseball fun. All 4 of our boys were perfect and we had a fantastic time! After the game we were even allowed to go 'below the stadium' to see Jake. A magical experience for any little boy, nevermind one who LOVES baseball.

Labor Day 2010 at the Lake!

2010-10-05T07:55:00.002-04:00

We have been blessed with so many new friends since we moved here a year and a half ago. Thru Anderson and one of his buddies, Blake, we've gotten to know his parents - - which coincidentally the dad is Anderson's tball coach. They have a beautiful home on a local non-wake lake and so they invited us and our good friends, the O'Neills to join them for Labor Day on the lake! We had such a great time enjoying the sun & fun on the lake with our friends! the big boys - Blake, Evan & Anderson

the ladies! Nancy, me and Jill

Mark on the 'yolo' board - it's like a standing up kayak type boat

Heather on the yolo board

Carter is a Pre-Schooler!

2010-10-05T07:37:00.001-04:00

So this post is very belated but blogging is close to the very bottom of my priority list. I've got to get better since I'm not a scrapbooker - sigh... Gotta do something with my pictures...

Carter started preschool in early September -- he is LOVING it!!! On the 1st day of school, there was no anxiety whatsoever (from him anyway!). The school encourages carpool drop-off starting from the very 1st day and Carter just hopped out, no problem, waved goodbye and was on his way. Basically every teacher at his school knows him already - if they have the priviledge of getting him out of my car or standing between him and his class after he gets out of my car, they get a Carter tidbit -- like, look at my shirt or my shoes, or my bandaid, or we went to the pumpkin patch yesterday -you get it!! I had tears welling in my eyes after I saw my little fella walking into the school by himself. What a big boy. He just loves school - -he tells me that he is going to be Ms Jennifer's helper. Such a sweet little guy. They tell me he tries really hard.....

the obligatory 'front o the house' 1st day of school pic

I can do it all by myself, mom!

bye Mom, I love you!

Anna & Carter

2010-08-28T17:27:00.000-04:00

I have a picture of Anderson & Erin almost identical to this from a few years ago.... sniff sniff

Busch Gardens 2010

2010-08-28T17:26:00.000-04:00

We were soooo glad to make another visit to Busch Gardens during our summer trip to Virginia Beach -- it was fun introducing Carter to all the rides -- the last time we were there he was barely walking and wasn't able to do much, this time was much different! Plus, they've added the Sesame Street section since our last visit too! It was a wonderful long day with some of our very best friends. 10 hours at Busch Gardens with 8 kids and not one single meltdown! that has to be a record for sure!!!

all the 'big' kids!
Anderson, Ryan, Carter, Anna, Emily & Erin

me & Carter riding a dragon!

suprisingly, even the 'big' kids liked buddying up to the characters!

Mark & Anderson after a fun water ride

Anderson is a Kindergartner!!!!!

2010-08-28T17:19:00.000-04:00

I can't believe this day is actually here! Anderson started school last Monday at Ocee Elementary as a Kindergartner!! He was soooo excited and not the least bit anxious. He could hardly stand the countdown until school started - he was ready!! He has an excellent teacher and walked into his classroom without hesitation on Monday! When he returned home (off the bus), he was rattling off all of the teacher's expectations and rules and he didn't miss a beat! After much deliberation, he is riding the bus - - I've heard nothing but positive comments from all of our neighbors and school friends and I couldn't stand the thought of waking Carter to take Anderson to school. So for now, we're riding the bus until we have reason to not ride the bus. Here's to a wonderful kindergarten year!

Lack of.....

2010-07-26T16:15:00.000-04:00

JUDGEMENT. I was making a dessert in the morning for the evening - - we had to be somewhere by a certain time, so I'm not sure what I was thinking when I sat the 2 bowls in front of the boys to lick. I didn't calculate the time to clean them from head to toe after they would have made huge messes. -so we were late. Why didn't I foresee this? I've been the mother of boys for nearly 6 years now - - this was BOYS 101..... At any rate, the boys thoroughly enjoyed themselves so I guess that made up for something!!!!

Free Wheelin'

2010-06-13T14:55:00.000-04:00

So one morning after Carter shed his obligatory nite time pull-up and hadn't yet found his undies for the day, he romped around the house for a good hour or so 'au naturel'. At one point he asked to go to the garage for something and when I went to check on him, this is what I found him doing!!!!

Carter is 3!!!!

2010-06-12T08:50:00.002-04:00

One huge perk of having a summer baby is the pool party option that automatically opens to you for birthday parties! We didn't have a party for Carter last year - - we were about to move and were in a bit of transition, so I toknew I couldn't skip this year too! We planned a fish themed pool party for Carter since he is, afterall, part fish. Not sure I'll be able to capture him "fishlike" in pictures b/c we can't take our eyes off him for a second. These crazy Judd boys just love to swim! I don't have many great pics of the party - - um, I was a bit busy, but here are a few a friend took for me. I can't believe my little baby Carter is 3! We had his 3 year old well visit yesterday and he is a whopping 34 lbs – probably close to, if not the same as Anderson! He is 100% boy and quite 'rough and tumble'.

Anderson Field Day 2010

2010-05-12T14:30:00.000-04:00

Anderson had his field day yesterday and he had an absolute blast. I enjoyed being able to attend and didn't have Carter with me, so I was actually able to enjoy watching him and not running after my wild-child Carter.

Relay Race - - booking it!

Basketball shoot-off- - - I mean look at his face and his hands like "I got this!"

Anderson's class' hula skills needed much improvement- it was hilarious watching them 'shake it'!

Mother's Day fun

2010-05-10T22:28:00.000-04:00

We headed out to my parents' home to spend Mother's Day afternoon - - we enjoyed a picnic and lots of fun outside!

Carter mastering each new playset we encounter

getting a little help from Poppi at the rockwall

Anderson learning what real pull-ups are all about - - harder than you think! I think he's ready to start P90X! ;)

Carter trying Honeysuckle for the 1st time! How sweet it is!

The Race!

2010-05-10T22:21:00.000-04:00

Our team was called 'Saving Second Base in the ATL'. Don't think about it too hard - - for some reason, I didn't "get" our team's name at first ... but then light bulb moment. A bit risque, but all in good fun! We were on a team with about 6 or 7 other women but I don't have a team shot....

Amy, me, Nancy

The back of our shirts indicated our line-up (us), survivors we were running for (MVPs) and angels who we ran for their memory and their courageous fight!

My goal was to run the entire 5K and I was successful - - not one stop and I felt GREAT after the race. It was quite hot and there were more hills than I expected, but other than that - I'm ready to train for another run!

after the race! YEAH, we did it!!!!

My 1st Bib EVER!

2010-05-05T16:01:00.000-04:00

I have forever wanted to be a runner- I was always envious of those who could just 'escape' and get their exercise no matter where they were- - sometimes I have felt really tied down with my loyalty to my classes at the gym. I LOVE my classes - - I love going into my classes and knowing exactly where my "spot" is (in front of course!) and love the comraderie I've established with many of the girls in my classes - - we may not know each others' names, but there is a sense of accountability to these 'faces'. But I have just always desired to enjoy running - I've tried many times over my life to be a runner - but probably never gave it tremendous effort or just 'hated' it from the word go. I think I never 'started' the right way either - ie I'd just go and run as far as I could -which was never really far- and just felt really discouraged.

This time was different - a new friend of mine mentioned in passing that she was running the Susan G Komen 'race for the cure' in Atlanta - - she wasn't a "runner" either, but a bonified 'gym rat' like me. As soon as she mentioned the race, I knew I wanted to do it - - I knew all I needed was a 'goal' and something to work towards. Wow. Knowing the race was coming up in XX weeks made me accountable to training. My goal has been to run the entire 5K. I've been training with my friend - -we started with interval training combining walking and running. It has been unbelievable to see how fast your endurance builds with this method.

Fast forward and now for the last 2 weeks I have joined a 'running club' through the Y. I am really enjoying it and really thrive in the aspect that I am being 'pushed' by runners. I cannot believe that last week I did a 5mile run and just this a.m. I did a 5.5mile run. I have NEVER run that far in my life. I cannot believe it!! It's really hard for me, but I am excited about my new found love. I am NOT however, excited about the notion of running in the sweltering heat of the summer - but we'll cross that bridge when we get there!!!

So if you think of it, say a little prayer for me this Saturday morning - May 8th - that I'll be able to run my 5K in entirety!

And the best part is, I am helping to support an amazing cause for women everywhere!!!!!!

Living on the Edge!

2010-04-27T11:33:00.001-04:00

So I have been negligent in posting about this, but Carter graduated from his crib back in January to a big boy bed! For the most part he has done pretty well - - with Anderson we never had issues with him getting out of the bed, but with Carter we've experienced a few more challenges, but overall he has adjusted well. This is how we found him a couple nights ago when we checked on him - yes, that's the footboard of the bed that he is hanging over!

Also what you probably can't tell from this pic is that he has a pair of pajama pants on one of his arms - - some of your kids probably have sweet stuffed animals or precious blankets for their loveys, but not Carter- he loves to cuddle up with a good ole pair of cotton pajama pants. Believe me, we have the stuffed animals and blankets, but Carter just prefers the pants! Oh well!

Caren is having a GIRL!

2010-04-24T19:46:00.000-04:00

My of my long-time friends, Caren, is expecting a GIRL very shortly! I'm sooooo excited that I've been 'local' for her pregnancy - - it's been fun watching her 'grow' over the past several months! For her 1st pregnancy I was pregnant with Carter and living in VA so I only saw her thru pics - - this is soooo much better! I was so excited to be able to attend her baby shower today live and in person! she looks beautiful, as usual!

me, Caren & Julie
the 3 french friends!

Atlanta Zoo!

2010-04-24T19:41:00.000-04:00

Some friends of ours invited us to the Atlanta Zoo with them for the day - - I hadn't been since I was a kid, and so I was excited to take my boys! We had a great time- the zoo is really nicely shaded so eventhough it was a hot Georgia spring day, we were very comfortable.

Anderson & Carter with their new lizard friend

Carter tackling the ropes course

rock wall champ!

Anderson and his friend Evan

2010-04-24T19:36:00.000-04:00

One of our best buddies, Drew, turned 3 and so our friends invited us over to celebrate his special day - it was a Star Wars themed evening - - - so we were fighting off multiple Darth Vaders and light sabers off all evening! My boys were in heaven!

Darth Vader & Darth Vader, um Carter & Drew

Carter is double fisted!

Maggiores in the ATL!

2010-04-24T19:29:00.000-04:00

One of my very best friends, Jen, from Va Beach came to visit for the week of Spring Break. It was their 1st visit to our home and we were sooooo excited to have them! We were pregnant at the same time for our 1st two pregnancies but I let Jen 'go it alone' for her third! Such a special bond when you go thru pregnancy and your 1st children together- - a friendship that I will always hold close to my heart! The kids picked up like old times - especially Anderson & Erin who are like an old married couple-- - getting along spendidly most of the time, but having many quarrels in between. On Tuesday of their visit, we just 'hung' out at the house and let the kids play - -we headed to the park for a bit packed with many snacks, and then came back to the house for the littles to nap and let the big kids just play and play and play. It was a wonderful time. The next day, Mr. Joe took Erin and Anderson to Fernbank museum, the Georgia Tech baseball fields (sigh......) and to the Varsity. Later in the evening we met up with them at Stone Mountain park for a ride to the top of the mountain and for the Laser Show. A wonderful time with dear friends - we can't wait for them to come back!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Mark and the boys at Stone Mtn

a rare picture of the usual picture takers!

the Maggiore fam
Anna, Jen, Erin, Megan & Joe

Easter 2010

2010-04-24T19:20:00.000-04:00

What a wonderful Easter!! After Anderson got out of school on the Thursday before Easter, we headed out of town to spend Easter in Charlotte with Mark's older brother's family as well as with Nana & Papa. We had a wonderful long weekend - -my boys always have such a blast with their cousins, so it always makes for a good time! On Friday, the ladies head out to the Metrolina Flea Market - a HUGE flea market in Charlotte which hundreds and hundreds of vendors - we really enjoyed the day together and looking for great finds! On Saturday the kids participated in Brian & Monica's neighborhood's egg hunt and we decided to go to the Saturday nite Easter service at church. On Sunday we took it easy as it was also 'departure' day - - we enjoyed a wonderful breakfast, let the kids do an egg hunt, made 'resurrection' rolls which symbolize Jesus being buried and then, when baked representing the empty tomb -- a wonderful visual way to re-tell the Easter story for the children. Definitely a tradition we will continue here on out!

Our family - -Easter 2010
Mark, Heather, Anderson (5) and Carter (2 1/2)

making 'resurrection rolls' on Easter "Resurrection" Sunday

Monica showing the kids the empty tomb! He is risen!

on your mark, get set, GO! The egg hunt is ON!

Anderson the Diamondback

2010-04-24T19:05:00.000-04:00

We're full swing into another tball season (which started in mid-February!) and Anderson is thoroughly enjoying it again! It's amazing the difference in the team from fall ball to spring - they are actually making plays and understanding many of the rules and 'strategies' of the game. Of course it doesn't help that 3 of Anderson's best buds are on the team too! Mark is now an assistant coach and I'm serving my first term as 'team mom', and it's been a wonderful experience, thus far, on both accounts- we've been blessed by a great cast of parents who are committed to the tball experience as well. Carter is everywhere, as usual, but he is bit more tame than in the fall where I seriously thought about hiring a babysitter to bring to the games with me. I always have to strategize what Carter will wear to the games, b/c if it's 'light' colored - it will be stained badly. But some battles just aren't worth fighting, so he's a filthy filthy little boy everytime we get home!

Mark & his siblings

2010-02-19T15:47:00.000-05:00

Brian, Paul, Katie-Beth, Mark

While we were in the Tennessee mountains, during a photo shoot of all the cousins, Monica also took several pictures of the original Judd siblings. They are all very close and often talk every day - if not multiple times a day. It's really neat to witness their love for each other. I feel so blessed to have married a man where family was so important to him.

It's funny to look at this picture and think that Mark & Paul are 'identical' twins - because in this picture they don't look very identical to me. What do you think?

Pete the Penguin

2010-02-19T13:46:00.000-05:00

Assignment: Pete the Penguin to spend the weekend with Anderson and his family.

Anderson had to journal all of their activities - with pictures and paragraphs in a special journal. Anderson had an absolute blast with Pete - he took really good care of him and he literally went everywhere with us - from the gym to the grocery store, to Jason's Deli, to a special trip to the GA Aquarium - Pete was with us every step of the way! Pete especially loved the penguins at the aquarium and felt especially at home during our 'snowy' weekend. Pete fit right in to our routine - from sun-up to sundown, Pete had a full weekend! Hurry back Pete, we miss you!

The obligatory snow post!

2010-02-14T16:01:00.006-05:00

the snow covered playset

our snowy home

The snow came fast and furious on Friday afternoon - quickly accumulating and covering everything. It was neat to watch and see how right or wrong our local meterologists were going to be. I'm so glad that Mark enjoys the 'snow activities' with my boys, because I prefer to watch them from the warmth of my home - providing assistance with getting bundled up, drying mittens and pants, making the hot chocolate and providing carrots for snowman building. Part of me feels a bit guilty when I stay inside, but I am just plain miserable when I am freezing - and since we live in GA I don't have proper 'snowgear', so I get wet and therefore cold..... Sigh, I won't win the 'Mother of Year' award in the Best SnowMommy Contest this year.

Happy Valentines Day 2010!

2010-02-14T16:00:00.001-05:00

Monster Truck Jam

2010-01-21T15:48:00.003-05:00

So I admit! I never would have expected that I would be someone to go to the annual Monster Truck Jam - to be honest I think I always kinda stuck my nose up at it, but our friends invited us to go with them and we thought 'sure, we'll go - the boys will love it!'. Well not only did our boys LOVE it, but Mark & I had a great time too!!!! We got to experience the 'Jam' in style. Our friend Jill's brother had a box, so we got to spend the evening there - room for the kids to move around and a bit of shelter from the crowd. Definitely the way to do it!!! I can't believe I'm gonna say this, but we can't wait til next year!!!

the men all ready to go - did I mention it was FAREEZING outside (thus the snow)

Dirty faced Anderson donning his earplugs - it was soooo loud in there!

where it all takes place!

Carter was entralled!

Dearest Modge Podge

2010-01-19T11:50:00.006-05:00

So I have had a deepening relationship with my dear friend, Mr. Modge Podge. It's so wonderful - and the possibilities are endless with my friend and a little bit of scrapbook paper. Heavens know I don't do a good job actually scrapbooking, but I sure love to use it in every other imaginable application! We've been 'renovating' or updating our powder room and since we're on a bit of a budget round here, I've been trying to decorate it 'for less'. This was a cheap & easy project and I'm very happy with the results!!! I grabbed a few wooden unfinished craft 'plaques' from my beloved Hobby Lobby, got out my burnt umber craft paint, picked out a few sheets of coordinating scrapbook paper, and broke out my jug o' modge podge..... Here's the end result!

No more swiffer refills for me!

2010-01-13T12:29:00.002-05:00

For any of you other frugal gals out there -I tried this, and it totally worked! No more $4+ bottles of Swiffer for me! And if you don't know what a vice grip looks like- I just grabbed some tool out of our garage that looked like you could get a really tight grip on the neck... (who knows if it was actually a vice grip!)

http://www.homebodyholly.com/2009/05/wfmwdiy-swiffer-wetjet-refill.html

Mountain Judds

2010-01-02T22:15:00.000-05:00

We had an absolute wonderful time in the TN mountains with Mark's family after Christmas - the best part is the non-stop quality cousin time the 8 cousins enjoyed together. We attempted to get some pictures outside with all the cousins together - Monica brought her camera and will hopefully have some winners, but if my slow poke point n' click is any indicator, I think we'll be pleased! Oh, did I mention it was like 30degrees outside- brrrrr!

Anna (18m), Catherine (7.5), Avery (2), Mary-Scott (almost 4), Adam (6m), Benjamin (10), Anderson (5), Carter (2.5)

The Nativity

2010-01-02T21:58:00.003-05:00

I absolutely love Nativities- I think they are beautiful on every level - it's one of my favorite things to do each Christmas is to pull out the Nativity set and set the characters in motion - and remember the birth of our Savior!

my original nativity- Mark & I got it our 1st Christmas

my mom gave me this one this year- I love the colors and the detail

my new favorite nativity - one that my boys will actually be able to play with in the years to come and maybe pass down one day to their children - I recently 'crafted' this nativity during our time in the TN mountains after Christmas. My sister-in-law Monica has a friend who had made one and she fell in love with it. We replicated the nativity that was posted on The Pioneer Woman's blog (which I love!). Monica made one for her family, Rebekah made one for her family using scrapbook paper (vs felt) and I made the above one for our family. Monica carefully traced the images so we could create templates and our father-in-law Scott cut and sanded the wood. Once the paper templates were created, we each cut our individual pieces using the colors we desired for each piece. This was a laborious 'craft' but was so much fun to do with Monica and Rebekah - we spent hours upon hours around the kitchen table cutting our little characters. I'm so glad that in the future years I'll have such a wonderful rememberance of this time together!

the wise men

the baby that changed it all!

a few furry friends, a couple shepherds and an angel....

Picture Perfect

2010-01-02T21:15:00.005-05:00

This post is way overdue.... oh and you are going to be so sick of seing my collages after this post...

As you can tell from my new banner & my Christmas card- I have some new pics of my boys! My sister-in-law Monica has a fantastic camera and a wonderful 'eye' for photography, so I asked her if she would be willing to take some pictures of the boys for me - for one, what mother isn't constantly craving precious pictures of their beloved children, and second, I needed a pic for our Christmas card. During a brief overniter at their home, Monica and I (along with cousin Benjamin) took the boys to a local park for a photo shoot- the location was absolutely perfect - you didn't have to try very hard to find a nice backdrop and Monica took nearly 300 pictures! Here are some of my favorites collaged below....

But my very favorite pictures are from a chance meeting with the on-duty leaf blower - he had paused his 'blowing' to let us pass by, but Monica asked him to rev-up and blow somes leaves Anderson's way - the result was a neat sequence of pictures that I absolutely adore. I am going to try to figure out a way to display several of these 'in sequence' in my home....

Monica - a million thanks thanks thanks!!

Got Antlers?

2010-01-01T17:50:00.004-05:00

We hosted Christmas Eve at our home- and my parents, my brother and his wife, and Mark's sister came to join in the fun. We had a wonderful time and at one point played a game of Catch Phrase. Whomever the buzzer 'buzzed' on had the priviledge of adorning a set of reindeer antlers for the next round. So fun!

Resourceful!

2010-01-01T17:44:00.000-05:00

Resourceful & Green! Many friends know that over the last year I have been more able to indulge a passion of mine to be crafty - I have been inspired to do many projects big and small - from renovating rooms in our house to wrapping presents. I ran across this idea on a blog and just loved it- this is a Target bag cut up and secured with a twist-tie to make a bow! I love that this was festive & green! I feel so bad that I can't find the link to the blog post, but this wasn't my idea....

Perfectly Imperfect!

2010-01-01T17:32:00.000-05:00

I picked up a cheapo gingerbread house kit at Walmart so that we could begin a tradition of decorating a home each year. I knew from the very beginning that when including an 'into everything' 2 year old that my nice quaint idea of a sweet little gingerbread house had to go. We weren't 2 minutes into our decorating when Carter chomped on the 'Christmas tree' in the kit, and he was popping the decor in his mouth the whole time.... But in my mind, this little house turned out perfectly!!! ;)

Elvie the Elf

2010-01-01T17:27:00.000-05:00

Earlier in December, Anderson wrote to Santa Claus and asked him to send an elf to our home for Christmas - after a week or so, Santa Claus obliged and sent "Elvie" - after we learned how to care for Elvie, Elvie would find someplace safe from a 2year old to observe both Anderson & Carter and then report back to Santa nightly with the day's 'naughty and nice' findings. Anderson warned Elvie from day 1 that he needed to stay 'high' so that Carter wouldn't come touch him. As the urban myth goes, if anyone besides a parent touches Elvie, he loses his ability to fly home to Santa that nite. Elvie remained safe and was never touched by either boy! Here are a couple of places Elvie decided to "hang".

The Different Looking Santa

2010-01-01T17:16:00.000-05:00

Anderson meets Santa Claus - he patiently waited and waited in line, while his parents - well not so patient! Carter decided he did not want to sit with Santa and we were not about to try to make him, so we'll wait til next year, or the next to capture his time with Santa.

While we were waiting in line Anderson told me that this Santa Claus looked different than he did last year. Uh oh...

What did Anderson tell Santa Claus that he wanted for Christmas - - - Star Wars "stuff". Check!

Gingerbread Judds

2010-01-01T17:03:00.002-05:00

We got together with our friends, the O'Neills, to make some Christmas crafts - some reindeer candy canes - which ended up being a mommy project basically, and then our boys decorated gingerbread men. The boys all really enjoyed decorating/eating the gingerbread men - and the finished products were absolutely adorable and proof of their ages and their mommy's assistance!

Anderson getting a help from Santa , I mean Mark

Anderson showing off his work so far....

Evan proud of his 'man'

Mommy giving Carter a hand - mostly so he wouldn't completely consume the gingerbread man and all the decorations....

Drew working on his masterpiece...
the end result - from left to right- Drew, Carter, Evan & Anderson

What fun!

Anderson's Christmas Program

2009-12-08T19:30:00.000-05:00

Anderson's class did their Christmas Program yesterday - they did a 15minute presentation for all the parents (all the 4year old classes), then we were dismissed to his classroom for a brunch and another special treat by his class.

His class performed the 12 Days of Christmas - it was soooo cute! Here they were singing "5 Gold Rings"

A special treat for Daddy to come to his classroom!

Anderson and his 2 best buds from class- Connor & Blake

Tree Trimming in our new home!

2009-11-29T20:38:00.000-05:00

This time last year we were just getting settled at my parent's home - most of our Christmas decor was packed in boxes, with the exception of our stockings - so this year was extra special to pull out the decorations that have been hibernating for nearly 2 years!! It was so fun seeing how our decorations fit in our new home. This year was extra fun too since Carter was an active participant in our family tree trimming - only 2 ornaments have been broken (thus far!).

Finding the perfect home for the teddy bear

the finished tree

the Judd boys enjoying a fire after our stockings were hung with care

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-11-29T20:31:00.000-05:00

This year we enjoyed our Thanksgiving day with my brother and his wife Bree in Athens GA. My parents joined us as well as Bree's dad, brother and his girlfriend. This was Bree's first time hosting Thanksgiving and she did not disappoint - everything was perfect and top-notch. It was wonderful to have a day spent with family but able to go back home and sleep in our own beds. Thanksgiving also marked our 1 year anniversary of our move from VA to GA - I cannot believe a whole year has passed!!! We are blessed beyond measure!

me and the hostess with the mostest, Bree

the spread, almost revealed - Anderson is ready to eat!

Bree enjoying some quality time with her nephews

Visit with Nana & Poppa

2009-11-27T16:59:00.002-05:00

On our way back 'southbound', the boys and I stopped in Clemmons NC to visit with my Nana & Poppa who just recently moved there from FL. They are living with my aunt & uncle and my cousin Jacob. It was a short visit - but a great visit. My boys proved yet again to the family that they are 100% pure rough and tumble boy and very active at that! It was a wonderful visit and one that I hope to do more often.

Photo opp with Nana! Carter say cheese!

the best pic of all - Poppa, Nana & me & the boys

see what I mean....

the driveway to their home - you feel a million miles from suburbia, but in reality they are 3 minutes from suburbia

boys and sticks.... what more can I say?

Anderson enjoyed a nature walk thru the property with Uncle Scott

Anderson & Carter had a blast riding on some 'wiggle cars'!

Boys, boys, boys!

2009-11-27T16:16:00.000-05:00

The boys and I were able to spend a few hours with our friends the Libertores during our whirlwind trip to VA - our boys are all the same age, so time with them always equals good times! It's so hard to believe that Anderson & Niko were little 2 year olds over 3 years ago -where is time going? Yet again, our boys picked up right where we left off!!!

Anderson & Niko - the big 5year olds!

the whole gang- Niko, Tony, Carter & Anderson

Avery & Adam

2009-11-27T16:13:00.000-05:00

We got to spend some time with Paul & Rebekah and their family while visiting in VA - it is so neat seeing Avery become such a little girl - not so much baby anymore! I think it was safe to say that she enjoyed playing with her cousins too! Rebekah and I enjoyed some time getting our craft on, and just enjoyed catching up 'in real life'. Of course we enjoyed our newest Judd cousin - little Adam.

Aunt Rebekah sure knows the way to my boys' hearts - - ice cream!

Carter showing off his cone to Adam - soon baby Adam, soon!

meeting baby Sarah

2009-11-27T16:08:00.000-05:00

One of my main reasons for traveling to VA was to meet baby Sarah- she is nearly 3months old and I hadn't met her yet - it killed me not being there when she was born, so 3months was quite a wait!!!! My boys thoroughly enjoyed meeting their new friend - Carter kept asking to hold her and told me that she was nice!! Anderson really lit up when Sarah smiled at him. Yes, the boys have gotten their baby fix! She is precious and I hate not being there to see her get bigger every day!!!

Monster Trucks a la Baba

2009-11-27T16:01:00.000-05:00

During our trip to VA we enjoyed a few hours at Jens' in-law's home- the Maggiores (affectionately known to all as Baba and Papa Joe)- they have often opened their home to us and our kiddos and the kids love riding their monster trucks and playing in their life-size doll house.

Carter trying to keep up with the big kids driving away in the monster truck

Carter: the new driver - not quite sure what he is doing!

Anderson & Ryan - still best buds!

Mr & Mrs Judd, um I mean Erin & Anderson

Jedi in Training: Princess Anna

2009-11-27T15:54:00.000-05:00

During our visit with the Maggiore gals- Anderson brought his two light sabers (of course) - Anna was very much into 'training' with Anderson and she held her own very well. Maybe a light saber should be in Anna's stocking this year!!

A pitstop in Columbia SC

2009-11-27T15:48:00.000-05:00

The boys and I just returned from a 6day trip up to VA. Along the way, we stopped in and visited with the Schrodt family in their new home in Columbia SC - it was so wonderful seeing our friends and the boys picked right up where they left off in their friendships a year ago!! We were only able to stay a little more than an hour - but it was a fun filled hour including an introduction to the newest Schrodt - Caleb!

a traveled Heather holding my new friend Caleb!

Carter and Callie loving the tire swing - hard to believe these little people are little talkers now!

Anderson, Jacob & Josiah - reunited!

Cousin Fix

2009-11-10T14:49:00.000-05:00

This past weekend we celebrated an early Thanksgiving with Mark's Dad's side of the family -the Judds. Our boys are always excited to see their Nana & Poppa, but moreover they LOVE spending time with their cousins. Brian & Monica's family came down and we were missing Paul & Rebekah's family, but we'll get to see them soon (countdown 1 week!). Anderson was Benjamin's sidekick nearly the entire time and Carter kept himself busy getting into everything as usual! This trip Poppa borrowed the neighbor's golf cart which seemed to be a highlight this trip!

Poppa taking Mary-Scott and Carter for a whirl

the 'men'

happy riders!

Fall!!!!

2009-11-10T14:27:00.000-05:00

We have an abundance of trees at our home which obviously provide lots of opportunities for raking!!! I was trying to rake last week when the boys found jumping in my piles a ton of fun. I wasn't able to get a good shot of Carter b/c my battery died but Carter's diaper full of leaves later that day proved the fun that was had by the brothers!

My brother, future Ironman

2009-11-06T09:03:00.002-05:00

Yes, this is a bit different post - not a cute little Judd, but my little brother Ryan. As you can see though, not so 'little'. My little brother -31 years old- is competing in his 1st Ironman this weekend in Panama City. He has been doing the triathlon circuit for a few years now and is ready to go after his dream of competing in the grueling Ironman. For those of you who aren't familiar with the Ironman - Ryan will do a 2.4mile swim (in the Atlantic Ocean), 112mile bike ride and a marathon run at the end (26miles) - all without a break. Shew, I'm tired just thinking about it! At any rate, I'm lifting up prayers for him and his wife Bree for their weekend - for safe travels and that Ryan completes his race safely. Good Luck Ryan - we are so proud of you!

Halloween 2009

2009-11-01T21:26:00.000-05:00

So the boys fully enjoyed their 1st Halloween in our new neighborhood and have the candy to prove it. We had kinda icky weather - chilly with a wet mist drizzle, but 'do-able' for the kids. We started off the evening with hot-dogs in the cul-de-sac and then bid farewell to the daddies and kiddos. I was way overstocked with candy so I think we're good candy wise for the year!!!

Anakin ready to slay pumpkins

decked out and ready to go!

Cheesy Carter

2009-11-01T21:19:00.000-05:00

So my favorite 5year old hijacked my camera for a photoshoot - I knew he was going to take one picture, but when I later got my camera- he took like 50 pictures, including the 9 pictures of his brother - apparently Carter is Anderson's favorite object to shoot. Obviously Carter was happy to oblige. Can't you just hear the "cheese". I have to admit I was happy to find all these cute Carter pics on my camera. Other favorite items Anderson took several shots of: the ghost taped on our window (we were ghosted), his blue light saber (or "saver"as Anderson calls it) and me in my pajamas on the computer (totally unaware).

Anakin face-off

2009-10-30T09:24:00.000-04:00

Anderson had a little friend over from school yesterday - and they are two peas in a pod - both are all about Star Wars. Here they are at school - both Anakin Skywalker! They were debating in school which Anakin they each were - whether or not they were the 'real' or 'fake' Anakin! Too cute.....

I did it- well, kinda

2009-10-27T20:32:00.001-04:00

I created my blog header "banner" or whatever you call it. I followed the directions to a T, but somehow can't get the annoying white border to go away. Oh well.... At any rate, I've been using Picasa for awhile now and already love it, so this makes me love it even more!!!! Here's the link for the tutorial if you dare!

http://memoriesoncloverlane.blogspot.com/2009/08/tutorial-on-how-to-make-blog-banner.html

Practice Run!

2009-10-25T21:25:00.000-04:00

Our neighborhood had its annual Halloween parade and festival this afternoon - we invited our good friends, the O'Neills to join us for the festivities. We had a great time and the boys loved donning their new costumes.

Anderson = Anakin Skywalker (who else?)
Carter = Pit Crew teammember for Lightening McQueen

Flash and Anakin

Carter and Drew - seriously, this is the only picture I got of them today that was half decent - ugh - 2year olds! They were precious though - Drew was Batman....

face painting fun

Anakin Judd um Skywalker in action

On Cloud 9

2009-10-25T21:09:00.000-04:00

Anderson is LOVING every minute of his tball experience - at the end of every game the coach gives each player a baseball card - a moment that each of the boys looks forward to. As well, the coach gives a "game ball" to one or two deserving players who had a 'stand-out' game. We weren't sure if Anderson had given the gameball notion much thought, but last week Anderson asked Mark if they could go practice his hitting in the backyard -so that he could have a better shot at winning the game ball. It was so sweet, he really wanted to get one and so today when he finally got awarded the coveted game ball, it was really special to him. He hit the ball really well today and is 'all-heart' on the field each and every game- he slides into every base possible and just really takes to heart all the advice and encouragement he can get! What made the moment even more special is that the coach asked the team who they thought should get the game ball and several of them piped up "Anderson!". So sweet!!! So needless to say, my little man is on "cloud 9" this week! I'm so proud of my growing boy, thank you Lord for blessing my little fella with a mighty heart and a love for playing!

Cousinly Rivalry

2009-10-18T18:09:00.000-04:00

Here are two cousins passionate about their teams - trouble is - their teams are rivals - Georgia Tech and Georgia. GT is having a good season while UGA is well having a so-called 'rebuilding' year...

Punkins among Pumpkins

2009-10-18T17:43:00.005-04:00

the men carrying our precious pumpkins

I want to send this picture to Sprite

picking out some gourds

I like this one!

the Judds -fall 2009

my cutest punkin ever

handsome punkin!

find my favorite punkin

my big 5year old punkin

We headed to a pumpkin patch- Burt's- in the North Georgia mountains with our good friends, the O'Neills last weekend. It was a neat experience - a bit different to what we experienced in VA -less fall festival, more pumpkins. The weather could not have been more perfect. We started our day together at Cracker Barrell and had a blast enjoying the perfect fall weather with our friends. I got a lot of great Anderson pics, not as many of my non-stop Carter. I think this is going to be an annual tradition!

Alvin Judd

2009-10-09T14:15:00.003-04:00

No, no we are not expecting another boy! ; )

One thing I missed while we lived in VA was all of the chipmunks that scamper 'round GA. While at school at UGA, during my walk from my sorority house to the bus stop, you literally had to dodge chipmunks that were running to and fro from the ivy. I loved it!!! Much much cuter than squirrells and a bit less common, I am just always excited to see the little guys. Until just a few moments ago - - I was going in my garage to throw away some trash and who confronted me in my garage - but little Alvin Judd. Let's just say I was not excited to see this little chipmunk. Whew, it scared me probably b/c I wasn't exactly sure at first blush that he was a chipmunk - but as soon as he ran out I confirmed his 'chipmunkness' and was filled with gladness that he headed into the grass. So now my love for chipmunks is slightly less than it was a couple of hours ago ...

My apologies that I likely just bored you with my chipmunk tale, but I thought I might look back at this posting with a smile, so please indulge me!!!! ;)

Tball Fall 2009

2009-10-04T21:08:00.000-04:00

Anderson recently begun his 1st season of T-ball. He is a RiverCat and is LOVING every minute of it!! Many days he can be found in uniform- and if he happens to have a practice or game scheduled for the day - he is usually sporting his uniform as soon as possible. Not only does he have the standard issue baseball mit and bat, but he also has several pairs of batting gloves that he wears. Whenever it's his time to hit - he'll suit up with the baseball gloves like a seasoned pro!! It's coach pitch for 4pitches and then they are allowed to hit off the tee if they can't get a hit from the coach pitch. The coach rotates the kids' positions so they get to move around and 'experience it all'. Anderson is one aggressive little fella. At yesterday's game he was in the pitcher position - but no matter where on the field the ball was hit- you better believe Anderson was running after it!! We're also working on the team concept with Anderson - even if his teammate is getting the ball, Anderson tries to get the ball from him. Gotta love his enthusiasm, but we're trying to teach him that it's OK to let your teammate get the ball too!! He's a good little hitter and will get better as he gets stronger and bigger, but he's doing great and only had to use the tee just once.

Cereal Nite

2009-09-30T19:19:00.003-04:00

That's how dinner turned out tonite - cereal all around. I often make homemade pizza = good. Mark & I love buffalo wings. So, the thought of pizza + buffalo wings = good. Wrong. Actually the problem was the "spiciness". Yowsers!!!!!!!!! Both my boys could hardly take a bite. Mark and I tried to eat it, but were simply overpowered by the spice. So, in the end, we were chowing down on bowls of cereal. Major flub. I can't really recall the last time we totally had to 'toss' out what I made for dinner.

Timing!

2009-09-28T15:16:00.003-04:00

Blog hopping this a.m. and came across this painting - it's so awesome how God puts things right in front of you with His perfect timing -we were just discussing 'thankfulness' last nite in our small group and the importance of giving God thanks at all times -for everything!!!! I love this scripture and have now added it as my wallpaper on my computer- as a gentle reminder that I'll see each time I sit down to the computer (which is alot!).

BTW, to give credit to the 'painter' see The Old Post Road at www.theoldpostroad.blogspot.com

Love this boy!!!

2009-09-27T22:06:00.000-04:00

I was trying to get pics of Anderson & Carter in their UGA spirit, but was unsuccessful - but I did love this classic Carter picture. This totally captures my little man's personality right now - happy happy happy!!!!! I love him sooooo!

Putting up Walls

2009-09-27T21:41:00.002-04:00

We've recently decided to "wall-in" our office to separate it from our living area. The previous owners used what will be our office as a piano room - but hello we have no piano!! This last weekend Mark's parents came for a brief visit and when I was telling Mark's Dad Scott my 'desire' to build a wall and french doors -he replied with 'that's easy - we could do that right now'. I was excited at how 'easy' Scott thought the project would be -since he would be the expertise that Mark needed. Come Saturday morning and Anderson's tball is rained out (yet again) and so the opportunity presented itself to 'buid the wall'. Mark's mom and I ran to Trader Joe's with my boys and when we came back - the wall was already studded!! They were able to get the wall sheetrocked and a 1st layer of 'mudding' done before Scott had to head back to Macon. He'll return next weekend and I can't wait to show you the finished product!!!! Here's a sneak peek.

"Before" from the living room looking into the office

"Before" looking from the office into my living room

"Before" looking from foyer

"During" look at those studs!!! (hee hee)

Wow, there's a wall there now!!!

We are also going to paint the entire living room and foyer (not to mention the upstairs hallways) so we've got major work going on over here!!! One day.....

Date with Dad

2009-09-25T08:18:00.000-04:00

Anderson had "Date with Dad" day at school - and of course, the usual fare of "doughnuts" were served. As a present for Daddy, Anderson had prepared a little book for Mark including some fun facts about Daddy. Some of them he hit right on the mark (sorry, pun intended), the others he was a bit off - - I'll let you determine which was which! ;)

How tall is your Daddy: 4 ft tall
How old is your Daddy: 30 years old
What does your Dad like to cook: hot dogs
Your Daddy's favorite food: cheese grits
Your favorite thing to do with Daddy: play basketball
Your Daddy's favorite thing to do: watch me (Anderson) play t-ball
I love my Daddy because: he reads books to me

"in the closet"

2009-09-25T08:10:00.000-04:00

Look who I found 'in the closet'???

Checked off my list- finally!

2009-09-25T08:07:00.000-04:00

Have you ever had one of those projects that just stays on your to-do list forever? When we lived in VA I bought some stuff so I could start hanging Anderson's schoolwork on the wall for display - I think I've had the supplies for atleast 2years (maybe longer) - it was on my giant list of things I wanted to do, but couldn't find the time to get it done. I had a lot of those when I was working and trying to 'do it all'. Well I'm ecstatic to report that FINALLY my little project is done. It was such a simple project - I had to paint 2 wooden stars, hang them on the wall (thanks Mark), thread some wire across them and then hang the artwork. At any rate, I was so glad to 'cross this off my list' that I had to post about it. Jen -you probably thought 'yeah, right Heather' when I kept talking about doing it, so better late than never!!!!

The verdict: Carter can hear you!

2009-09-25T07:54:00.000-04:00

I have been a little concerned about Carter's hearing over the last several months - I knew my little man could hear, I just wasn't sure how well. When his ears were tested last year after his tubes were 'installed', one of his ears passed, the other failed. Satan did what he could to turn that 'failure' into worry for Mommy. Some of his speech is very muted, especially certain sounds so I wanted to be certain his hearing was intact, so I had his ears tested on Wednesday. The verdict: the little guy can hear you perfectly!! They did 3 tests on him - one was to determine if his tubes were still in (they both are!), the second was a "puppet" show in a soundproof booth -which was fun, and the 3rd was the dreaded put earplugs in a 2year old's ears and see how long he can sit there without pulling them out or flipping out. He passed all three with flying colors. Whew. The audiologist also provided some sheets indicating by which ages kiddos should make what sounds in their speech. The information gave me great comfort that my little fella is doing just fine. So praise the Lord!

Carter does Cracker Barrell

2009-09-20T18:37:00.000-04:00

The Judds did something rare tonite - we went out to dinner as a family!!! These events are few and far between, but we had a giftcard and so we headed to Cracker Barrell tonite before our small group meets at our house. We figured it was a great opportunity to have a yummy meal and not have to worry about cleaning the kitchen before our home is descended on by guests.

So we all stuffed ourselves silly at good ole Cracker Barrell, but Carter did some major damage including 2 biscuits with honey, 1 large pancake with syrup and 1 piece of bacon. I can hardly eat another bite after 2 biscuits myself so I don't know where Carter was putting it all!!!

I LOVE this pic - fork in one hand, racecar in other hand (a must!) and bacon in mouth!!!
(Monica - do you like Carter's shirt - a la Heather -it turned out really cute!!!)

Trying to share with Daddy!

Rain Rain Go Away!!!

2009-09-20T18:20:00.000-04:00

So it's been raining for a week straight with no end in sight. I can't believe it is still raining - HARD!!! Anderson's 1st tball game was rained out -big bummer, but we decided that today after church, we needed to let the boys indulge a bit in the rainy weather....

the "before" shot...

didn't take Carter long to transform his outfit!

Anderson kept jumping in this mud puddle and the muddy water was literally running down his legs - you should have seen the uck that was dumped out of his boots!

Oh and yes, this muddy mess is my lovely back yard!!! Our backyard is grass challenged because of the shade provided by the trees. Mark is dying to 'attack' our yard to get some grass growing, but at any rate - the dirt patches have now turned into - you guessed it - mud puddles.

The clothes are already soaking in the laundry!

Sound Effects

2009-09-03T15:41:00.003-04:00

My camera is en route to Canon as it's not working - I'm kinda hoping that its a cheap fix, otherwise I'm going to need your help convincing my DH that I need a nice new camera - I've been having some major camera envy lately - mostly due to my sister-in-law's mother's day gift, but I have been good and been in the "my camera works just fine" mode and we don't need another expense right now (hello I have a new house!!!). Enter my camera not working and an upgrade in the camera department sure would be nice!!!!

At any rate, that's not the purpose of my post - except the fact that I can't show you what I'm witnessing right now. Any of you that have boys can appreciate the 'vrooms' and 'buzzes' and 'beeps' and crash noises that boys can make - they have these amazing sound effects that just 'come with the package'. Right now I'm enjoying Anderson buzzing and driving around my house with a Mac truck and the quietness that Carter is providing as he is napping. Usually Carter is joined in with his brother - especially since his speech isn't great - I hear alot more 'noise' from him.

At any rate - I just wanted to get this in writing because I know one day, probably not too distant from now, I won't hear the vrooms and crashes as often - or at all. So hear's to all the sound effects that my sweet little boys make.... I love them!

1st Day of 4K!!

2009-08-28T09:17:00.000-04:00

Anderson started 4K this week - he wasoooooo excited to start at his new school. He is going 4days a week - Mon thru Thursday and his class is basically the "young 5s" -they are kids who are either repeating 4K b/c of a late bday or missed the Kindergarten cut-off bday (like Anderson). I've heard nothing but great remarks on the school and even better comments on his teachers - that he'll be beyond prepared for Kindergarten.

On his first day of school, I let him choose his breakfast of choice - and who could blame him for picking donuts.... yummo. He even made his bed and brushed his teeth without being asked. By Tuesday, he was still excited to go to school, but not as eager to make his bed!!!

enjoying his dunkin donuts (see my pretty anniversary flowers)

Anderson made his bed all by himself - notice the big fat lumps (hey, but I'm NOT complaining!!!)

Here he is - my big 4Ker!!

Perfect Size

2009-08-28T09:10:00.000-04:00

So Mark & I are in the process of 'de-wallpapering' our powder room -and we had kinda saved the least fun parts of the bathroom for last - like the part under the potty and this space - under the sink. One day during Carter's naptime I was busy at work peeling away and who should come in to offer a hand - but Anderson. He quickly got to work under the sink peeling away the wallpaper. So handy to have a 4year old for the job! Can't wait to show you my reveal of the powder room when it's done!!!

Time to Wrestle!

2009-07-30T14:05:00.001-04:00

I take a peak out my back door and what do I see - but two little boys rolling around in the backyard having a blast. Granted, I see this image - boys wrestling just about all day everyday - but this particular instance just warmed my heart because they were just giggling and loving every minute of their all-boy time together. Plus, it just captured, so perfectly, the bond my little guys have together.

An introduction

2009-07-30T14:00:00.000-04:00

Anderson holding his new cousin

We were blessed with a quick visit from Paul, Rebekah, Avery and their new sweet baby - little Adam. It was a whirlwind visit but we were glad to introduce our boys to their new cousin- we were able to meet Adam during our moving spree in VA in June, but we didn't have Anderson & Carter with us - so this time they got to meet! I just know Adam will be very special to my boys.

Anderson & Carter July 2009

2009-07-10T22:01:00.000-04:00

Today I did something I don't do very often - I took the boys to have their pictures taken. The last time I had pictures taken of the boys was April 2008 - I did a large portrait of the boys together at that time and got many individuals of Carter - but he was still such a babe! Sure, I have a gazillion 'snapshots' since and some that I consider very frameworthy, but none that were by a professional. I took the boys to a local Portrait Innovations just to satisfy my recent desire to get a couple pics of the boys before Anderson heads back to school next month. Even though it was quite an ordeal and a good reminder of why I don't do this very often, I was pleased with the end products. The pics I ordered also have muted black vignettes on them as well, but you get the idea from the images below.

Carter Christopher - 2 years old

Anderson Scott- 4 1/2 years old

Brothers, best friends

Juddz Dig Chikn

2009-07-10T21:42:00.000-04:00

So everyone knows about the annual 'Cow Appreciation Day' at CFA, so I pressured Mark into dressing up like a cow to get our free dinner. He resisted and resisted and tried to get out of it, so I just said - that's fine, I guess you can have a bowl of cereal, because me & the boys are having CFA! Fortunately, I was able to twist his arm. I mean, we truly did 'cow-lite', here you can't see our spots or our tails and we didn't wear our snouts. Oh, the things we do for free food!

Enjoying the Summer

2009-07-10T21:29:00.000-04:00

We've had lots of fun the last few weeks settling into our new home and enjoying the fruits of summer!

We got to celebrate Evan's 5th bday - the boys put a sprinkler on the slide and voila' = instant slip n' slide and fun for little boys.

Team effort blowing out Evan's candles...

Mark took Anderson to his very 1st major league baseball game - the Braves won!!!!

Anderson taking the slide with power at a friend's bday party!

12 Years Ago....

2009-06-29T14:35:00.000-04:00

Twelve years ago this summer, I met these 2 wonderful girls. We traveled abroad to Europe together with a study abroad program. Caren and Julie had already been long time friends, but the 3 of us instantly hit it off. We had the times of our lives living with French families, drinking in the culture, traveling on weekends to other countries, and just discovering another way of life completely! Our summer experience was one of the best times of my life - I long to travel back to France one day to show Mark & my boys the wonderful places I went as a 21year old girl. Our summer in France has forever bonded me to these girls. Caren and I were roomates together after college and she was a bridesmaid in my wedding. Julie & I both traveled to Switzerland to be bridesmaids in Caren's wedding. We were able to get together last week as a threesome and reminisce. We had a grand time in giggles - looking back at pictures from 12years ago and sharing our different versions of the same stories!! Wow, how different our lives are now!!! I wonder what our lives will look like 12 years from now......

Judd Home Grown 'Maters, Part III

2009-06-29T14:24:00.000-04:00

The tomato posts are complete -(aren't you glad?), I have now harvested my first tomato. What a wonderful feeling!! We enjoyed some sliced tomatos with one summer supper and it was great!!! I can't wait to enjoy many many more (there are a couple more almost ripe for the pickin'!)

There she is, ready to be picked!

Anderson showing off my harvest! ; )

The Judds new home!

2009-06-29T14:19:00.000-04:00

Well, here it is! Our new home. It's been a crazy 1st week but we are getting settled and I am proud to say that most of the boxes are unpacked and we are making good progress towards being settled. From the above picture, we've already done a bit of yardwork - Mark gave the hedges some good haircuts and I cleared out an island and have planted some lantana and a couple rose bushes -already an improvement! The boys rooms are coming along and we will likely start painting Anderson's room in the coming days. We've hit the neighborhood pool everyday and the boys are loving it (as am I!). We simply load up the wagon, including a heavy 2 year old, and walk on over. The boys are LOVING their new playset and I'm working on my ability to let Anderson go outside and play on it by himself. I think I'm there, but it was a stretch for me. We've hit our new YMCA several times as I am sampling the class schedule offerings. The boys already enjoy going to the Y - and now they actually go to separate 'classes' which Anderson is thankful for. We've had our 1st near catastrophe yesterday when we came downstairs with some friends to find our entire kitchen under water. Apparently a hose wasn't on tight enough, and it decided to dump gallons upon gallons of water on my tile floor. I'm grateful that the water didn't get to our hardwood floors or our carpet, and I'm also thankful that the 'incident' happened during the day and not at night when it could have put my whole home under water, also tremendously grateful that we had friends over at the time for the extra help!!! Gotta love these opportunities to grow in patience! I hope to post pictures of INSIDE our home once these are a bit more settled!

Blankie love

2009-06-20T14:12:00.000-04:00

I kid you not, Anderson took a 1hour nap in the car just like this! I thought at first maybe he was joking, but after a bit I realized he was fast asleep!

Do you recognize her?

2009-06-20T14:09:00.000-04:00

That's Superwoman - my sister-in-law Monica. When we began our planning for the big 'move', I had asked her if Anderson could come spend several days with them knowing he might 'blend' in with their 4 children - she didn't hesitate for a minute. The original plan was that my mom would watch Carter - who can be a bit of a handful at times (hello, he just turned 2!); however, my grandfather has been ill and my mom wasn't able to watch Carter, so with that -I asked Monica if she'd be willing to watch Carter too - and again, she said - I'm willing to give it a try! I am so grateful to Monica for her servant's heart - I don't know how we would have managed if we had to take the boys to VB with us! Monica gave us great reports on the boys -they were having a blast with their cousins. In fact, in the end, Mark & I were worried that they weren't going to want to come home with us. Thank goodness -they were willing!!!! We love you Monica (and Brian too!)

CPK in VB

2009-06-20T13:59:00.000-04:00

To spend a few minutes with good friends, we pulled together a last minute, no kids allowed dinner at California Pizza Kitchen in downtown Virginia Beach. We had a great time and enjoyed great conversation - as much as I LOVE our crazy dinners with bouncing kiddos and highchairs and spilled drinks, I really enjoyed this quiet evening with friends. These were some of our great friends from small group. Such amazing friends.

the girls

the guys

It's so hard to say goodbye...

2009-06-20T13:45:00.000-04:00

On Monday evening we began our adventure of moving out of our dear Virginia Beach home of 5+ years. We drove to Charlotte where we left Anderson & Carter with Mark's older brother's family where they would play with their 4 cousins for several days while we packed up the home where we brought them home from the hospital. While I knew it was the only thing that made sense, I hated that the boys didn't get one last farewell to their 1st home, but I knew that it would take us twice the amount of time & patience if we had little boys in tow! Tuesday afternoon we got to Va Beach where we drove straight to Mark's twin's home to meet our new nephew (see previous post), then we headed to good ole Kempsville Greens to begin the packing & moving process. We took a couple hour break on Tuesday nite to visit with some dear friends, but let's just say by Tuesday nite I was completely overwhelmed at the state of my house. Wednesday we were joined with a force of family members and wonderful friends to get the job done. By Wednesday nite my home was practically packed up in one big Penske truck. Thursday a.m. brought last minute tasks for the bright and early walk-thru and one last stroll thru a home that we have such dear memories of. First, I walked to each room in the home and took a mental snapshot and then allowed my favorite memories to flood my heart - as my eyes welled with tears. The few days prior had been all-business for me - no emotion - Mark had tried to take me down memory lane a couple times, but I dismissed his prods - not wanting to give in, but when I did give in to the memories, I was just overwhelmed. As much as I would complain about our home - the white tiles and white carpet that nearly killed me, I absolutely adore that home. That home represents so much to me - a time period where not only did my family grow, but I grew in many ways -on many many levels. So with that, I need to end this post as I feel those familiar tears welling up once again.

here's the parting shot with a full Penske to drive 10hours!

wow, can you beleive it?

Aunt to the 6th Power!

2009-06-20T13:23:00.000-04:00

Hooray! - I've become an aunt again for the 6th time! Mark's twin brother and his wife Rebekah welcomed their 2nd child, Adam on June 9th! He is my second nephew and we were so happy to get to meet the little man in his 1st week of life! He is precious - tons of hair and just a sweet little guy. I took a turn changing his diaper and it took me forever - it's amazing how not changing a newborn's diaper in 2 years can make you kinda slow! I hate to think of how much he'll have changed the next time we see him!

Proud Aunt Heather & Adam

me & Mark with Paul & Rebekah's new addition!

Mark getting his baby fix on...

More Choking Hazards, please

2009-06-15T10:55:00.002-04:00

I keep a tin in the pantry that stores the Judd candy supply - usually it's the candy the boys get from holidays. For the 1st time in I dont' know how long, our supply is dwindling. I usually sort out the gum or the choking hazards, but sometimes I think, we'll I could cut that candy in two so it's not a choking hazard. Well on several recent trips to the candy tin, Anderson has picked out candy that are considered choking hazards, in my book. I indicated to him, OK you can have that - but I have to cut it first- I explained what a choking hazard is and why he can't have those candies or his little brother.

This morning Anderson to mommy:
"Mommy, can I please have a choking hazard this morning?"

I nearly fell out in giggles! It's like an exclusive treat to him now!

Judd home grown maters, part II

2009-06-12T14:09:00.001-04:00

So recall my original post http://thevabeachjudds.blogspot.com/2009/04/judd-home-grown-maters-part-i.html, well check out my awesome "mater" now - she has several big green tomatoes and I'm hoping that they'll start reddening soon! I can hardly wait! Hopefully soon I'll get to post a pic of me taking a big honkin' bite of a mater!!!

Unfortunately I don't have the same good news to share about Anderson's plant. While he nurtured and watered his plant, it just didn't thrive. His plant is still alive, yet he's not very pretty. There's still hope.

HB, HB

2009-06-12T14:03:00.000-04:00

So Wednesday was my bday (argh), and I had a great day that seemed to be all about food (of course!). After an amazing bday breakfast prepared by my awesome hubby, we headed to the pool with some friends. My friend suprised me with a bday cake with the initials 'H.B' on it - so I got it -ya know, H B Happy Birthday...., well my friend said, yes, but Happy Birthday H Bomb. I've been laughing about it ever since. I'm lovingly referred to as H bomb by many friends and often sign my name H bomb. Too funny. That evening we decided to be daring and head out to dinner for a bday dinner - what a disaster - besides the delicious food and fabulous company (my sister-in-law Katie Beth joined us), the meal was crazy because Carter refuses to be contained in a highchair and then Anderson seems to feed off of Carter's fits. So frustrating - I know the restaurant couldn't WAIT for us to go. Once we were in the car Mark & I looked at each other and said 'that's why we don't go out to eat- I remember now!!!!!!!!!!!!'. Anyhow, it was still a wonderful day and perfectly fitting for our boy-crazy life we lead! I wouldn't have it any other way (hmmmm...)....

Oh, and don't ask me how old I am - I'll lie. Only kidding, but seriously not thrilled with the idea of birthdays for me anymore.

Oh, and what did Mark get me for my bday - a House!!!!!!!!!!!!! (yoohoo!)

our pitiful attempt at a family picture - this pretty much captures how our evening went....

my wonderful sis-in-law Katie-Beth (love you girl!)

Biker Dudes

2009-06-12T13:50:00.000-04:00

For Carter's bday, he got a push tricycle - where it appears that mommy or daddy do all the work! It's a great alternative to a stroller and eventually he'll get the swing of the pedals, but until then.... we obviously had to go what is lovingly referred to in my home as the 'racetrack' (aka local elementary school walking track) so the boys could try out Carter's new wheels....

Anderson blazing by me on his bike - I need to make him wear his kneepads - YIkES!

Let the celebration begin!

2009-06-02T21:36:00.001-04:00

We had a mini birthday bash in Jacksonville to celebrate Carter's 2nd birthday (June 3rd) - I just wanted to call a couple of hours (or how about 30minutes) special for my little man.

the cupcakes - please tell me you can see the "2"!

getting ready to attack!

silly Daddy animatedly (I'm sure I just made up that word) reading a sweet bday card to Carter from his Nana & Papa

my sweet sweet boy

proud big brother

My 2 Little Fish

2009-06-02T20:47:00.004-04:00

WARNING: Proud Mom Alert

Boy oh boy do my little men love to swim. I love that they love the water and enjoy swimming as much as I do. Many of my fondest memories from growing up were at the pool. We spent everyday of the summer at the pool for several hours a day - in addition to swim team early mornings, late nite swim meets, etc. Some of my 1st jobs involved my love of swimming - lifeguarding, teaching swim lessons... In my family, summer = pool.

1 fish 2 fish 3 fish

baby fish

This visit to Jacksonville, Anderson was able to dive in and swim all by himself to the other side of the pool - all in the 'deep end'. It was so great not having to be 'in' the water with him. Of course we were always right there, and I often stood by the edge with a noodle, "just in case", but my little fish never needed my assistance. This is going to be a great summer at the pool for him and I think it will be a breakthrough year for his swimming skills!

Carter, like his brother, wasn't bashful at all with the pool- he is just as fearless of the water as Anderson was as a young toddler. He will totally go and 'jump in' the pool even if you aren't there. A bit scary - suffice to say, he is always within arm's reach anywhere near the pool. Jeepers!!!!!

JAX Beach

2009-06-02T15:58:00.000-04:00

We headed to Jacksonville for several days to spend some time with some of Mark's family - to get some much needed rest & relaxation (though I'm not sure watching 2 Judd boys in the pool is relaxing, but nonetheless..... One evening we headed to the oceanfront to listen to some music and stick our feet in the sand....

I just thought this was a sweet photo of my little man holding Nana's hand...

all the ladies- me, Katie-Beth, Jessica, Peggy & Cathy (aka Nana)

the Judd men -this is the only shot I could get of them - Anderson wasn't in a picture taking mood (rawrr!)

Papa showing Anderson how to look for sharks' teeth....

Memorial Day Fun

2009-06-02T15:49:00.000-04:00

We joined up with our soon to be neighbors, the O'Neills for some Memorial Day fun - my friend Jill got some fantastic pics with her nice camera that I can't wait to share (can you say AMAZING), but in the meantime, here are just a couple of random pics from the good ole 5year old Canon which has snail-speed shutter speed (oh well)! Brian & Jill are moving to a new home that will be only a few miles away from our hopeful new home. We had a blast -as usual- and if changing the boys rain soaked muddy clothes 2x is any indication, I think Anderson & Carter had a blast too!

Carter getting a baseball tutorial from Daddy

Anderson & Evan enjoying some dirt cups -complete with gummy worms 'oozing' from the dirt

all our boys racing - On your mark, Get set ...