The Jenkins Family

Carter turns 3

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Wed, 30 Oct 2013 21:43:00 +0000

On October 17th {officially at 1:59pm}, my sweet baby boy turned 3. I really, really can't believe how fast the time has gone by. We have had many trials over the last few years, and I caught myself saying many times that Carter was my light in the darkness...my joy...God gave us that sweet boy at the right time. The kids certainly kept my focus somewhat in the right place and I am eternally grateful.

{celebrating on his actual birthday with donuts}

Moving on ;) We celebrated this sweet boy on Saturday the 19th with a Pumpkin Painting Party!!

Thanks to my buddy, Holly, for the precious invites!

He was so excited for his party. I made the mistake of mentioning it a few days prior; all he could talk about was his party and his pumpkins. The 19th started out brutally cold and rainy, which made me sad because we had also booked a bounce house. Thankfully, the skies cleared and the sun came out! It was a great day! The kids jumped, painted, ate, and celebrated with our boy!

Thanks to KK for snapping pictures...it always alleviates some of the stress at the birthday parties!

{I am "3"}

{Painting pumpkins with friends}

{Pumpkin Decor}

{pic 1 is our norm and sums us all up perfectly // take 2 is after several other takes ;)}

{Austin enjoying Carter's new bike}

{Thanks Birdie and Sam for Carter's new bike}

{sweet friends}

{He loves his new Train from KK & Chandler}

{Riley // 11 years old}

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Carter also celebrated at Cindy's house on his actual birthday...he requested BLUE cupcakes. All the kids were stained blue for a day or two ;)

I will be forever grateful for Cindy and NayNay and all they do for our boy. They have taught him so much more than I ever could have during his first few years of life! So thankful!

Also, that night, we all headed to Chuck E Cheese to celebrate! That was also Carter's request!

{it wasn't too long ago that we had to stand him inside the game so that he could make the baskets..now he has no problem shooting the ball over the glass. He's getting big!

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Thanks to everyone that helped us celebrate our precious boy! I look forward to seeing what the next year holds with this crazy kid! Carter, we love you very much! Happy Happy Birthday!

Go Commando 5k

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Wed, 23 Oct 2013 21:10:00 +0000

Last weekend, I ran the Go Commando 5k with Lauren & Brittnye (she did the 1/2). It was cold, rainy, and a bit miserable...but, I had my best finish in a 5k EVER! I ranked 189 out of 700 runners! Not to shabby! My Map My Run App said I averaged 9:10 per mile...my results from the race said more like 9:26 per mile...I'll take the Apps word for it ;) I was so pleased with my time! This coming weekend, we are running in the APSU Homecoming 5k! It's going to be hilly...so I'm a bit nervous but excited to see if I can beat last weekends time!

Pumpkin Patch & Circus

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Wed, 23 Oct 2013 21:07:00 +0000

We wanted to take advantage of the nice weather {that has suddenly turned bitterly cold as of today} so Columbus Day Weekend we took the kids to the Pumpkin Patch. Our favorite one to visit is Honeysuckle Hills Farm in Coopertown, TN. It's about 20 minutes away from us but so worth it because of all the activities they have to offer: train rides, pumpkin picking, pumpkin shooting, petting zoo, etc! The kids had a blast and were worn out...but we decided to drag them to the Shriner's Circus that night anyway ;) We did have FREE tickets so I felt like it was justified!

We only stayed at the Circus until intermission...it was already pushing 9pm and it was only half way done. Everyone in the Jenkins Family was exhausted...it was such a fun day!

Lately...Life Happenings

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Wed, 16 Oct 2013 21:03:00 +0000

I have been terrible about keeping up with this blog lately. Life just gets in the way. Plus we are down one person at work...so things have been just a tad buy ;)

Here are a few snapshots at our Life Lately:

I took this photo of Chloe on our way into Hananoki a few weeks ago. I thought she looked like a little hippie :) Wearing this headband was here idea too...I was proud of her fashion choice!

I've been doing a bit of running lately. I have a 5K this coming Saturday so I know that I have to be somewhat prepared. This run was down Fairway Lane a few weeks ago....if you don't know, Fairway Lane consists of hills and more hills. DIE!

This run was last weekend. I set out to do 4 miles...I got close and I was pretty okay with my pace {Ted Crozier Blvd}!

Carter likes to throw fits these days. Terrible "almost" 3's I guess. He was mad because we didn't have a movie in the car...that would be because he takes the "movie boxes" out every day...he looked like this the whole way home!

Blake and I ate at Rosepepper in East Nashville recently. It was delicious!

I slacked on my photos for Homecoming week. But I did snap this one of Chloe on Blue / Gold Day! She was sporting her Cougars head band and Homecoming shirt!

Cindy sent me this picture of Carter's tower! He wanted Mommy & Daddy to see!

We had a visit with Baby Bennett! Chloe was like a little Mommy...she was so excited to hold a fresh newborn!

On October 3rd, we attended March of Dimes Best of Clarksville. Jenkins & Wynne was nominated for "Best Place to Buy a Vehicle" & "Best Service Shop"

Happy and proud to say that we won in both categories! This was our 13th straight year winning "Best Place to Buy a Vehicle"

Above: Accepting the award with some of the J&W Team // Carter being sweet while watching Chloe dance // Chloe stretching for her performance // Walking with Mrs. Becky // Carter hugging the creepy Micky Mouse

Blake and I took my Mom and Sam to the Titans Game recently as well.

Titans vs. Kansas City Chiefs

It was rainy and gloomy but we still had a nice time!

Carter had croup recently...so we headed to visit our favorite Pediatrician, Dr. Roads. You can tell below that he didn't feel so bad...that is always how it is when we are at the Doctor!

Dinner date with Austin Reigle...they hugged each other without being prompted. Thankful Brittnye captured the moment because it was so sweet! They will for sure be best buds!

Chloe being dramatic while doing homework...well, as of today, I'm no longer aloud to call her Dramatic...she got kind of upset! ;(

Finally, I was craving some Chipotle recently but didn't feel like waiting in line...so I made my own yummy version at home! Good stuff!

Whoa! Major picture overload! Glad to have it somewhat caught up...up next, my Baby Boy turns 3!!!!

Taylor Swift!!!

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Thu, 26 Sep 2013 19:43:00 +0000

On Thursday, September 19th, we had tickets to see Taylor Swift on her opening night in Nashville! To say that we were excited was an understatement. Daddy was a good sport and came too! I don't think Chloe quite knew what to expect...rightfully so...she had never been to a real concert like this before!

We got home early to get ready! I thought Chloe looked so big in her boots, curls, and flowy top!

We headed to Nashville {in the middle of rush hour} to grab a bite to eat before the concert. We ended up eating at Rock Bottom Brewery on Broadway {formerly Big River Grille}. It was really good and quick...which is what we needed!

We got to Bridgestone with about 20 minutes to spare and proceeded to stand in a t-shirt line for all of that 20 minutes...not so fun! But, I knew Chloe would enjoy having a t-shirt from her first concert! We grabbed our t-shirt and headed to our seats.

I was blow away at how amazing our seats were. They were 2 rows from the floor towards the middle of the arena; so we were basically with all the crazy fans right there in the middle of it all. Thankfully, there was a nice grandmother sitting in the row in front of us and she let Chloe and a few other girls come down to lean on the barricade. This was a BONUS because Taylor Swift came right by there while she was singing. She stayed back by us for about 45 minutes singing on a smaller stage. The opening act, Ed Sheeran, walked by Chloe too and gave her a high five! Not a big deal to her, but that's neat to me since I thoroughly enjoy his music! Also, the girls leaning against the barricade were all given a Taylor Swift guitar pick! Extra Bonus!!!

{right before it started!!}

Chloe showing off her glow stick // Taylor right after she came out // Chloe and I enjoying the concert // Taylor's tour bus outside the arena

Our only family shot outside before the concert // the stage for the opening act // all the little girls that enjoyed the concert together--they didn't even know each other but made such a great memory together

The kids all had great signs--the one above was one of the best! They got pulled from the crowd to go right upfront // Ed Sheeran on stage // RED--getting ready for Taylor to come out // Blake and Chloe during Taylor's set

We had such a great time. It was a late night for Chloe to have school the next day, but I think a great memory was made for us all!

American Girl / Atlanta Visit

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Fri, 20 Sep 2013 21:58:00 +0000

We intentionally had Chloe's party on a Friday so that we can treat her to a special weekend in Atlanta. She has been wanting to visit the American Girl store for some time now; so a few months ago we decided that her birthday weekend would be the perfect time to take her! Atlanta is the closest store to us...so early Saturday morning we headed off! We got into town around 1pm or so-headed to a hole in the wall Mexican Restaurant {Nuevo Laredo} that is to die for-made a quick trip to the GA Aquarium-then headed to the store for our dinner reservation! It was such a great weekend. The Aquarium was hands down the best one I have ever been to. The tanks were AMAZING! I would love to go back! Carter was being somewhat temperamental that afternoon so Blake took him to the hotel...so Chloe and I got to experience American Girl together. It was so magical watching her go from doll to doll and looking at all the clothes and accessories. We ate at the Bistro, her doll, Sage, had her hair done, and we got a few new AG things for her dolls {with her birthday money}! It was a great weekend!

{eating at Nuevo Laredo / Chloe in front of a few of the tanks and touching a sting ray}

{riding the conveyor belt looking at the big tanks...Carter was in awe / the kids in front of some of the tanks}

{as you can see, Sage--the AG doll--went everywhere with us that day}

{We are here! American Girl in Atlanta!! Eating at the Bistro with our doll and her little high chair & Sage at the hair salon with her little cape}

{Love the sweet pictures of me and my girl. She was so happy! When we arrived at the hotel, they rolled out the pink carpet for Chloe. We did the American Girl Package which included a travel bed, cookies and milk, breakfast for 4 in the morning, a lollipop, and a pink credit card to get a snack in the gift shop! It was so fun}

{Chloe holding her Sage, next to Sage in the store}

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The following weekend was my Best Friend's 30th Birthday! So thankful for Brittnye's friendship!! She has been through so much with me...and is always there to listen!

We got to spend all day last Saturday together...really, I was keeping her distracted so that her family could plan her surprise party! We had lunch at the Cheesecake Factory and did some shopping. That night we all got together to surprise her!

All the girls at the party!

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A few other pictures!

Dance has started back up! Chloe seems pretty excited this year! She will also be doing Acro and 2 privates with her instructor, Becky, each month!

Finally, our Picture Day Princess! I loved this sweet Orient Expressed Dress that she wore for pictures a few weeks ago!

Chloe Turns 7!!

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Fri, 20 Sep 2013 16:36:00 +0000

My sweet 1st born turned 7 on September 6th.

Here she is on the last day of being 6!! She looked so big this day...it breaks my heart how fast the time is going. I know the next time I blink, she will be 17!!

{headed to school}

On the actual day of her birthday, we started out with french toast sticks in the shape of a 7!! I was also able to go to school & eat lunch with her! Her request was, of course, McDonalds! Not my favorite, but I know she loves it! She gets to pick one friend to sit with us so she chose, Savannah!

{my fancy "7" in french toast sticks / Chloe showing off her treats from Granny / Savannah & Chloe at lunch / Papa showing Chloe her brand new big girl bike--no training wheels}

For her party, we decided to do a 'low key' pool party at Grandy & Jenks' house. Well, I say low key because the only planning I had to do was to order invites and take care of food and cupcakes! As far as low key with all the kiddos...not so much! Wild and crazy is probably a better way to put it! But, I think everyone had so much, relaxed fun! The kids got good and wore out and had full bellies! Chloe even asked to do this again next year! She invited all her buddies that she has grown up with and a few new girlfriends from school! It was a great mix of kids! She got lots of great treats too...including Taylor Swift Tickets from Mommy & Daddy!

{enjoying her birthday cupcake}

{the invite / adorable beach ball cake pops / yummy flip flop & umbrella Almond flavored cupcakes}

{a few candid shots of all the kids}

{Chloe & Addison--friends since birth / KK & Carter getting a few belly laughs / a sweet pic of our boy}

I mentioned Addison earlier...Adrienne sent me this picture of the girls when they were babies. I think this was taken the summer before they turned 1 {so, 2007}...I thought it was such a cute photo. I love that they are still great buddies today! I hope they always stay connected! Addison is 1 day older than Chloe. They were in the hospital together :)

I posted this picture on Facebook on her birthday. I can't believe she use to be this tiny...she is growing into such a beautiful young lady. I am so incredibly proud of her every single day! God blessed us!

{left: 8 months old / right: first day of 2nd grade 6 1/2 years old}

Finally, we are all due for new bedding in the Jenkins Household...I was really looking for Carter big boy bedding and for us as well...but I came across this precious bedding at TJ Maxx on clearance. I just couldn't pass it up! I think Chloe really likes it! It's more "big girl!!"

My Sweet Boy

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Wed, 11 Sep 2013 14:10:00 +0000

Carter's Sitter, Cindy, sends me pictures periodically. I love getting a glimpse of what his day looks like. It's like I get to be a fly on the wall. Sometimes, she will send pictures because he wanted "Momma to see." That really makes my heart swell.

Carter is learning to write. Cindy starts them by writing 'sticks' and 'balls'...because all letters incorporate these 2 things. She said he doesn't love it, but we will get there!!

He replicated the Disney Cruise Ship. You can see the pride in his face!

This was a fishing boat...

Apparently, Carter likes to sleep on the shelf of the TV Stand :)

Coloring & writing more sticks and balls...

Carter @ almost 3 is:

*the funniest, sweetest little boy you will ever meet

*never leaves the house or goes to bed without asking for "a kiss and a hug"--I will be so sad when he stops asking for this

*obsessed with movies / dvds--he loves to carry the DVD boxes with him everywhere

*loves his green doggie blanket and gets really upset if it is ever in the washer {will actually open the washer and pull it out if he realizes its in there}

*knows all of his ABC's, their sounds, and can recognize them in words

*can count to 20

*knows all his shapes
*knows that our names are actually Blake and Fran---and sometimes will say my name is "Fran Jenkins & Wynne" :)

*last night in the car:

Carter: "Momma, a crescent!"

Me: "What Carter?"

Carter: "A crescent right theeeerrreee!"

Me: "Oh, the moon! You are right, it's shaped like a crescent!"

WHAT!? How smart is that! I was amazed!

*He loves milk and juice...would drink something before eating, but he LOVES to eat...snacks mostly!

*Wears a 3T-4T

*is fully potty trained except for at night

*is a fish...loves to swim with his puddle jumper, of course!

*favorite shows are Team Umizoomi, Bubble Guppies

*favorite movies are The Lorax, Sandlot, Nemo

*repeats everything we say

*likes to tell me "You are getting on my NERVOUS"...he means nerves, of course

*has a big spirit...always laughing, giggling, running, playing

*does love to throw a tantrum--arms flailing, legs shaking, tears falling

*adores his big sister--I hope they always love each other they way they do now

{lunch at Five Guys in Brentwood}

I am so thankful that I am a Mom of both a boy and a girl...a world of difference between the 2, but I love each of them so much!

St. Louis Birthday Celebration

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Tue, 10 Sep 2013 17:46:00 +0000

The weekend of my 30th Birthday, we packed up and headed to St. Louis with Brittnye & Steven! I was so excited for a weekend away, no kiddos, just some good adult fun! We packed several things into a short 36 hour window...I was exhausted by Sunday, but we all had a great time!

{on our way...after lunch at Chipotle}

Friday night, we had dinner at Mike Shannon's...it was delicious {and cost us a pretty penny}, but it was a fun place to celebrate turning 30!! Afterwards, we headed to the rooftop bar on top of our hotel. We stayed at the Hilton St. Louis Ball Park right next to Busch Stadium! The hotel was amazing! The rooftop bar was awesome too...good times!

Saturday morning, Brittnye and I got up and worked out, had a coffee, and enjoyed some girl time! Afterwards, we headed to Union Station for lunch. We ate at Landry's...it was delicious. Afterwards, we headed to Grant's Farm to see the Clydesdale's...by the way, it was 101 degrees outside! Ahhh...we were all sweating buckets, but I was glad we visited...I definitely enjoyed the 2 refreshing beers at the end...that were on the house! We finished the afternoon doing the Budweiser Tour. I love that stuff...and it was so interesting to see how that Bud Light Lime I love so much is made! I was also thankful to do something that was somewhat inside...since it was SO incredibly hot that day!

We had dinner at a local spot, McGurk's Irish Pub. I had the Guinness Stew...it came in a bread bowl and was the most delicious stew I have ever had!!

While we were gone, I saw that Lauren {our babysitter for part of the weekend & Brittnye's sister} posted this sweet picture of the 3 kiddos...she had them all at once...I'm sure that was BIG fun ;)

We headed home bright and early Sunday. I was so happy to see the kids when I got home! We played outside for a bit...and I captured this sweet video:

{this picture was actually taken on my birthday the morning before we left...sweet boy}

My Golden Birthday

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Fri, 30 Aug 2013 13:32:00 +0000

God could have not blessed us with 2 more perfect babies. Because of them, my heart is whole...truly the best thing that has ever happened to me in my life! Was happy to be greeted by them with big smiles on my Golden Birthday! The first thing Chloe said, still rubbing her eyes, was "Happy Birthday, Momma!" That is all I ever need....

Last day as a twenty-something

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Thu, 29 Aug 2013 21:39:00 +0000

{taken this morning to mark the occasion :)}

Well, this is it...my very last day as a twenty-something. I have to say, my twenties have been good to me--finished my undergrad at APSU, got married to my high school sweetheart {8 years ago}, was blessed with the two sweetest babies I could have ever prayed for, started in a business that I never thought I would be part of {but, LOVE}, bought 2 homes, bought 3 different cars, deepened friendships with so many wonderful people {most importantly Brittnye}, learned to be a supreme multi-tasker, am beginning to learn to let go {this is a tough one}, and learning to be a forgiver.

There have certainly been some low points, but the highs certainly out weigh the lows BY FAR!

I'm thankful for all the experiences my twenties have brought me, but I'm ready to embark on the next chapter with my husband and 2 growing kids. Ready for life adventures without diapers involved, ready for school activities galore, t-ball practice, dance recitals, ready to deepen my faith and deepen my relationship with Blake, and everything else the next 10 years will bring!

Thankful for the journey so far! Here's to the BIG 3-0!!!!!!

Milestones

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Tue, 20 Aug 2013 20:51:00 +0000

Last Thursday was the start of my sweet girl's 2nd grade year.

My first thought is...how did she get so big so fast. I feel like 2nd grade is OLD. Before I know it...I'm going to blink and she is going to be a sassy teenager. I guess maybe the fact that I'm turning 30 in less than 2 weeks is making me a bit nostalgic too. Either way, she is growing up way too fast. Sometimes I find it hard to believe that God gave us these two sweet children to mold into adults (Lord help us!!) :)

Chloe on the 1st day of 2nd Grade

This year at Clarksville Academy, she has Mrs. Williams. I'm thrilled with her teacher this year because she has over 30 years in the school system so I know she is seasoned and knows what she is doing. I feel like this is going to be a pivotal year for her with reading and I'm looking forward to having good guidance on how to best help Chloe progress! So far, the year is off to a great start. I love that Chloe is still so excited about school, learning, and making friends. So thankful she is a sweet, outgoing little person.

Thursday was a 1/2 day; Our tradition has been to eat lunch and go see a movie...this year was no different. We met my Sis-In-Law and my Niece for lunch at Olive Garden and then we headed to see the movie Planes. It was cute and we got to spend some good one-on-one time with Chloe!

{the girls wanted to show off their new backpacks}

I would hate to give an update on Chloe without giving one on the boy. Carter is still a very vivacious 2 1/2 year old that never slows down. He is so sweet and has eyes that will just melt you but he is ALL BOY!! Much different than my sweet natured first child.

I LOVE this photo. Our babysitter, Kaylee, took this last Friday while babysitting the kids. You can see the pure joy in his face! That is Carter!! She said right before this that he was in tears, but Chloe threw a pillow at him and he instantly calmed down (nothing like redirection)!!

Both kids have been very interested in 'playing golf.' So we give them a ball and a club and let them go at it...Chloe, at this point, is far better at hitting the actual ball than Carter, but either way, they both have fun with it! The weather has been so nice...glad we get to spend some time outside at night!

Because my co-worker, Amanda, and I share an August birthday...Casey got us some yummy cupcakes from Nerdy Birdy. They are gluten free and delicious! We went with the Chai Vanilla Buttercream Cupcakes...they smell and taste like pumpkin pie. YUM! We have eaten on them for 2 days...have to say...I have looked forward to coming to work just so I can have a cupcake!

Finally, a candid shot of Carter and his crazy self. He likes to wear sunglasses...but upside down, of course. He thinks he is quite funny!

Life Post Vacation

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Mon, 12 Aug 2013 19:46:00 +0000

Well, since our vacation mid-July, things have been just as busy, but that's normal with 2 small kids, I guess.

Chloe lost her 3rd tooth!!

We've attempted to eat out a bit more with this crazy 2 year old. Here is his

"I'm Innocent Face"...convincing, right? Dinner at Olive Garden!

Dinner at Chipotle (see the trend in the innocent face...)

This night, it was just 3 of us...Chloe had a sleepover with her buddy, Rebekah!!

We've been to the lake a ton in the last few weeks...

Once with the Reigle & Ladd Families...lots of kids and craziness. Fun times!

Chloe gave tubing another try with Madalyn (she's quite the brave 10 year old so that gave Chloe extra confidence)!!

This photo sums up our friendship...Kasey (on the right) always making us laugh...always!

Lake time with the Jenkins Crew.

It was raining most of the morning so Chloe decided to play "beauty shop"...Carter was so thrilled for her to give him a mohawk!! I love all their faces in this picture!

and finally, my Dad bought his dream car--

a 2012 Shelby GT 500

It's beautiful...proud for him and thankful for his loyalty to Jenkins & Wynne ;)

Day 4, 5, 6

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Thu, 08 Aug 2013 20:54:00 +0000

Truly, the days are kind of running together as I'm thinking back...but, I do want to make sure to document all the things we did (in the best order I can get them in ;))!

Port #2: Costa Maya, Mexico

**we did not port until 12:45 this day and had to be back on the boat at 4:45...I just didn't think that was enough time to get the kids off, do anything, and get back on...its a small process to get off and back on. So the kids and I hung out on the relatively empty boat and Blake got off to do some shopping / eating! It was a nice, quiet day!

Port #3 Cozumel, Mexico
We did get off in Cozumel. It was HOT! We grabbed a taxi and went to a private beach club area. It was nice, low key, not crowded and the food was TO.DIE.FOR. Best guacamole and pico I have EVER eaten! It was fun! Fun memory...some of the employees were walking around with a parakeet and a giant lizard. You could hold them and get your picture made. Well, Chloe had NO interest. Carter was so excited to do it, but his little arms just couldn't hold the bird up and he wasn't strong enough to hold the lizard on his own!

More Stingray Tour Photos

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Wed, 07 Aug 2013 19:28:00 +0000

Totally forgot that our Tour Guide snapped some photos of us while we touched the sting rays...the photos were priceless...so thankful he had a great camera to catch the memory!!

So much fun! Truly, the best day on the cruise--hands down!

Grand Cayman

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Tue, 06 Aug 2013 19:19:00 +0000

Day #3

Port: Grand Cayman

I was a bit hesitant at our first port...only because I had never been on a cruise. I didn't know what to expect when we got off the boat. All I can say--Grand Cayman was BY FAR my favorite Port. The people were amazing. The excursion was so fun!! I would vacation there for sure!

We didn't book anything in advance...so when we got off the boat and got bombarded by people...we just kind of drifted towards the first excursion we came across. It ended up being a Stingray Tour. Again, I was a bit hesitant especially because we had a 2 year old with us...they didn't seem to mind ;)

The first stop was in the middle of the ocean...there were tons of boats kind of in a circle on a sand bar. When you got off the boat, the stingrays came right up to you. It was INSANE. The kids got in the water but weren't so interested in touching the stingrays. I think Chloe may have brushed against one. I have to say, I didn't love the idea either...but, you only live once! After visiting with the stingrays, we boated to another location to snorkel...followed by another stop to touch starfish! It was an amazing day.

Here is the day in photos:

After breakfast, we made a few Character stops...

Jake from Jake & the Neverland Pirates {Carter's FAVORITE}

Lilo & Stitch

Headed off the boat. The water in Grand Cayman was the most amazing color I have ever seen! The picture doesn't even capture it!

On our tour--Stingray & Starfish

Later that day--swimming and dinner at the Animator's Palate. Our Table number every night was 71. This was my favorite restaurant because it was so kid friendly. The turtle in the picture below was Crush from Finding Nemo...what made it so neat was that the turtle interacted with the table guests-asked questions, knew their names, etc.

More Character stops after dinner:

Captain Mickey

Peter Pan

A bit more about our trip...

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Thu, 01 Aug 2013 20:16:00 +0000

First, I have to say, we are so blessed to have been able to take this trip. Hands down, at this time in our lives, we couldn't have taken a trip like this on our own...but, thanks to Ford, we were able to give the kids {and us} the opportunity to experience the magic of Disney for 7 days at 4 different locations! We cruised on the Disney Fantasy, which is the newest Disney Ship...it was amazing--impeccably clean, so much food, the staff was so great! I can't speak highly enough about our experience with everything Disney!

I'm going to attempt to narrow down each day with a few pictures...which might be a tad bit hard because I took over 400 pictures on my iPhone...that is NOT including the 65 pictures we purchased from the Ship!

Arrival Day July 20th, 2013
Port Canavaral, Florida

{flew into Orlando}

{on the bus...headed to the boat}

{as we were walking onto the boat--YES, we all wore Mickey shirts!!}

{beautiful Minnie statue in the main lobby area of the Disney Fantasy}

Chloe was so excited to meet so many of the Princesses on the first night...her favorite Princess is Belle so, of course, that was the best sighting on Night #1 of all...little did she know, we would have some great one-on-one time with Belle later on in the week!

Day #2

At Sea

{clockwise} a bit of lounging--well, about 45 minutes worth ;) / chloe enjoying the mickey slide / carter splashing in the Nemo splash pad / the kids hanging by the pool--thank goodness I packed the puddle jumper

On the first night, Ford hosted a reception before dinner for everyone in the group. There was a special appearance by Captain Mickey. The picture I captured is horrible quality--thankfully, Ford gave us great quality print outs to keep!! I just couldn't get over how beautiful Chloe looked on this night...so grown! I just adore her!

After dinner at the Enchanted Garden, we changed clothes and headed to the 8:30 show. If I remember correctly, the show was Aladdin...it was AMAZING. I expected no less from Disney! Afterwards, the kids wanted a 'treat' so we headed to the shop and left with Captain Teddy and a Mickey Pillow Pet!

and, of course, some character appearances!!

I just love how Carter has his hands in his pockets like an old man :) I was so incredibly impressed with how well Carter did with all the picture taking. He would look right on cue and smile so BIG! He wasn't scared of the actual characters...he would walk right up to them and hold their hands!! So sweet!!

Day #3 and #4 tomorrow!!

The most magical place on Earth...

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Tue, 30 Jul 2013 21:13:00 +0000

Well, I have been a bit MIA on the blog lately...we've had lots going on. But, the biggest news is that we just got home from our 7 day Western Caribbean Disney Cruise. It was amazing and I look forward to doing it again...when Carter is a bit older! We had an amazing time, and I plan to post more details, but I wanted to show off a few pictures from our adventures!

The kids had an amazing time...and it shows in their sweet faces!!!

{we were obviously headed to the pool...but, Lilo & Stitch were so excited...the kids just had to visit with them}

{our first photo taken as soon as we walked on the ship. carter was SO excited...and this Momma was already so exhausted. the two's are SO MUCH FUN ;)}

One funny thing that Carter did every time...he said to EVERY character we met:

"I wanna hug & a kiss!!"

And all the characters obliged and bent down so he could kiss their faces. So sweet. I was worried he would be scared, but he loved meeting all of them and asked constantly when we could see the next one!

Another funny thing...Carter finally realized that Chloe is missing teeth. Out of the blue he said:

"Clo, where are your teeth?"

Haha...

a bit of randomness...lately

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 19:17:00 +0000

Water day has started back up at Cindy's house...

I love the pictures she texts us of the kids...so candid!

Last Saturday night, I went to Lauren & Jarred's wedding. It was absolutely precious. It was very laid back and low key--everyone wore cowboy boots & the reception was held at the Hayloft Barn in Port Royal!! So fun! They had a photo booth set up for everyone to take fun photos...you got a strip of film and we left one for the bride & groom to enjoy as well! Great times with great friends! Congrats to the happy couple!
{I'm down in the right hand corner ;)}

Chloe has recently started Day Camp at The Giving Tree. We LOVE IT THERE! It's a bit of a drive for us every day but so worth it!! Chloe has enjoyed the pool time and the fun field trips they plan for the kids! On the first day, I noticed this award on the door....

YAY Chloe..."Cool Kid Award--for setting such a great example for others!"

I got to spend a few hours with some of the my favorite people a few weekends ago...a nice {quiet} girls dinner out with Lauren, Stacey, & Brittnye! We ate at Cabana in Nashville....

delicious!

A few words to live by...

The kids have been enjoying the "sprinkle" lately {as Carter calls it}....

I loved this picture of the sun setting, Riley, and Carter playing in the water.

More "sprinkle" fun!

Carter & Ava Claire at Civitan Park

"Under the Sea" day at The Giving Tree--My Little Mermaid

**Back story--this photo was taken before we headed to school. She looked precious and even asked if this could be her Halloween costume in the Fall. Well, when we got to school, she walked into the school age room and NO ONE ELSE was dressed up :( She was mortified. Chloe instantly hid under my skirt and started crying. My heart broke for her. We ran to the bathroom and took the costume off instantly. So...lesson learned.

This boy...and this truck.

It's about the sweetest thing you will ever see. Being a Mom of a boy is the sweetest and most trying thing. He is just so darn cute so it's hard to get mad at this face. Anyway, he's also saying so much funny stuff lately...

Carter Blake

2 1/2 years old

UPDATE:

*currently in the throws of potty training--will go pee / poop in the potty ALL DAY at daycare...Mommy tends to forgot to ask him at night so we have had several accidents already this week

*calls the slip-n-slide the "sprinkle"

*told me his birthday is in October {thanks Cindy}

*can recognize all 26 letters of the alphabet, can tell me something that starts with the letter, and the sound of the letter

*can count to 20 {and can recognize most up to 10}

*loves chocolate milk {but asks for white milk too}

*sleeps with 20 stuffed animals and 3-4 blankets at any given time {notices if you take any of them out}
*fights us going to bed, but as soon as you sit him in his crib, says "Hug & Kiss...sleep tight...wuv you Mommy"

*currently loves his "riley" dog {there are 2--a small boxer stuffed animal and a monkey pillow pet that he thinks looks like Riley}

*OBSESSED with cars...lines all 100 matchbox cars up on the carpet and then says "Mommy, they go to the gas station!!"

*everything is yellow right now {favorite color, I guess}

*loves the pool--loves to jump off the side, swim to the stairs, repeat--thank goodness for the puddle jumper

*loves the BIG BATH TUB aka Mommy & Daddy's Jacuzzi tub {thanks for fixing it Papa}

*hates hair cuts...but constantly says "I get haircut?"

*still in crib but no longer uses high chair

*favorite things to eat: gold fish, cookies, macaroni, cereal bars, cheezits

*almost out weighs Chloe {currently the size of a 3 / 4 year old}

*has the memory of an elephant...can remember who gave him what toys, remembers everything we say and then uses it way later {not always a good thing ;)}

*favorite tv shows--Bubble Guppies, Team Umizoomi, Little Bill, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Jake and the Neverland Pirates

*favorite movie--Leap Frog Letter Factory

The list could go on and on...

Some of the funny things are documented in text by our sitter, Cindy...

funny example of the things Carter says:

"Turn It Up"

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 14:51:00 +0000

This past Saturday {June 1st, 2013} was Chloe's 4th dance recital.

This was Chloe's first year with Rewind Academy of Dance.

She {well, we} have had such an amazing experience this past year. Through the middle of the year, she was kind of 'over it' not because of the environment...I just think she was being a 6 year old...but, after her recital she told me that she really wants to stick with dance...I plan to ask her again in a few weeks to make sure 100% she wants to recommit in August!

The one thing I took away from this experience was the laid back atmosphere...no one was stressed...not the kids OR the parents! They weren't looking for perfection..JUST FUN!

Here are some photos from the weekend:

//all dolled up and ready to head to Clement Auditorium. I can't get over how OLD she looks here//

//her 3 costumes for the day

1-Jazz number to Justin Bieber's "Baby" 2-Ballet number 3-Tap number to "Basshead"//

//Chloe's finale outfit...she looked SO CUTE//

//Thanks to Aunt KK for snapping so many great pictures...happy to have Jenks, KK, Chandler, Papa, Birdie, and Sam there to support her//

//I just love the sass in this picture//

//group shot of the whole studio with Ms. Becky//

Thanks to Becky & her entire team for an amazing year! I know Chloe truly loved the relationships she made with her class and the older girls that took her under their wing!

Here's to another fun year!

iPhone photo dump

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Tue, 28 May 2013 16:44:00 +0000

In no particular order....

We did a bit of swimming with KK & Chandler to celebrate Memorial Day...followed by a yummy Pasta Bravo dinner {thanks to KK ;)}

Chloe showing us her moves!

& Carter just being cute!

I'm so thankful these 2 love the water...and are fairly self sufficient. Makes my time at the pool a bit more relaxing!

A visit to the park w/ Haven & Baby Robert ended with Chloe looking like a flower child!

A visit to 5 Guys Burgers & Fries w/ my 2 favorites!

{by the way, when I snapped this picture, Carter was in mid dance move...wish the picture could have captured how into it he really was}

A doughnut date with these 2 as well...

Tiny fingers enjoying the pretty weather and windows down!

{these are Carter's fingers for the record}

More pool fun...this time enjoying a sweet treat!

"I'm a race car driver, Mom"

Some much needed inspiration on Sunday morning from our previous Pastor at Grace Community Church.

This sweet girl is now officially a 2nd grader.

I received her report card in the mail--straight A's to end the year.

She only had 1 B the entire year...and it was a 91 in Reading her first 6 weeks.

Incredibly proud of her!

{photo taken on her last day of school}

A quick photo of me before work last week...I'm in love with this bright yellow tunic from Kikilarue!

Finally, I was planning to be out of town this last weekend but it didn't work out. So, I was able to take part in the Memorial Day CrossFit Event! It wan incredibility intense. The event could be done by yourself or with a partner...of course, I needed a partner to split all this craziness up with...so Amanda & I did it together! Couldn't as for a better work out buddy...she keeps me motivated and pushes me harder than anyone ever has! By the way, she is 6 months pregnant ;) Here is a before and after from the day!

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Mother's Day & More

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Thu, 16 May 2013 20:00:00 +0000

I wanted to start this blog out with this picture because it was taken just days after I became a Mommy of 2 {I think Carter was 12 days old}. Though I feel like I struggle everyday with Motherhood, I am truly blessed with the sweetest, smartest, most beautiful children I could have ever asked for. They love me unconditionally no matter what and for that, I'm so grateful! I'm so proud to be their Momma!

This past Sunday I got to celebrate my 7th year as a Mommy!!

{I am also counting when I was pregnant with Chloe...cause it counts ;) }

We started out the day at Church, followed by lunch, and then a trip to the Zoo.

The weather was perfect for our 1st visit to the Zoo this year. Sadly, we were called out of Church because Carter said his head hurt-long story short-Blake took him home to give him some Tylenol and he got sick in the car. He took a quick nap while Chloe & I ate and then we headed to the Zoo. He was so good all day even though it was quite apparent he didn't feel good. He made it all the way home before getting sick again. Poor little guy :(

{this is pretty much how he looked the entire day}

{my first born...she made me a Mommy}

{Chloe & Chandler Kate in front of the purple iris's at the zoo}

I was given several sweet treats...perfect for me and the things I have going on right now! I'm most excited about my Dick's gift card...who would have ever thought I would say that...I'm on my way to owning my first pair of Crossfit shoes!! Speaking of, I have started doing Crossfit on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays with Amanda! I am IN LOVE! Even though she has to bully me into going every morning...I am always so glad I show up!

{our ridiculous conversations at 5am via text}

{my first WOD I ever did took place in Amanda's garage...it killed me and kept me sore for 4 days}

{a few sweet treats from my girl}

Last Friday, I was invited to Chloe's Class for a Mother's Day Celebration. The kids sang to us, served us donuts and juice, and gave us several very sweet hand made treats! My favorite thing of all is my sweet little plant that is currently sprouting on my window sill!

{the kids singing us a Mother's Day song}

I had a great Mother's Day thanks to my sweet family...very appreciative of a nice relaxing day!

--------------------

In other news...in no particular order:

Today, Chloe had Field Day! All week she has been telling me how excited she is about Field Day, but she was not looking forward to the sack race! Well, coincidentally I received this picture this morning from her teacher...Chloe ready to take off during the sack race!

And guess what??? She came in 3rd! So proud for her!!

Carter has been extra snugly lately so I snapped this picture of him while we were watching the Lorax together!

Ms. Kemmer sent me this picture of Chloe & Rebekah during Technology Day! The girls also brought in their American Girl Dolls so they could play together :)

Just an old picture I came across...Carter was 9 months old. I can't believe how fast time has gone by. I really wish we could go back to when he was a baby...I would freeze him just like that if I could...well, let me take that back...I am absolutely in love with this 2 1/2 year old stage as well...yes, he sometimes likes to be a stinker and let his terrible 2's show...but overall, he is so funny, sweet, loving and amazes me every day with how smart he is! He is my sweet, sweet boy!

I had some free time recently so I took the kids to the park that is right by our house. They both love it so much because it is right next to 3 baseball fields...they love watching the other kids play!

And finally, Chloe got this project from school because the whole class was good!! She started working on it last night, quickly finished it, and decided she wanted to give it to her teacher, Ms. Kemmer! Sweet girl!

a little pick me up

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Tue, 07 May 2013 20:28:00 +0000

even on the worst kind of day when you are so busy you can't see straight, seeing them this happy and loving each other is priceless and something I will forever cherish. they truly love each other and it shows {most times!!}

Derby Bunco 2013

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Tue, 07 May 2013 13:39:00 +0000

Derby Bunco 2013 is in the books.

We had so much fun last night....everyone sporting their Derby hats made everything that much more festive.

Haven & Ameila did a great job with the food, decor, and gifts.

We actually played this year, which is definitely a nice change!

Sadly, I didn't win any of the amazing prizes, but I had a great time nonetheless!

The Winners:
Shelby, Ashley, Brittnye, Brittany, Jean, & Haven

Brittnye and I sporting our Derby hats

{mine will double as my pool / beach hat this summer...I didn't feel so bad spending the money when I thought of it that way!!}

When it was all said and done, I came home to this sweet girl!

Lately...

noreply@blogger.com (The Jenkins Family) — Thu, 02 May 2013 19:49:00 +0000

Well, I guess I just haven't been snapping as many pictures lately.

I realized that when I went to finally update the 'ole blog and realized I didn't have many captured memories.

One thing I wanted to jot down was how funny Carter is right now.

He is a little over 2 1/2 now and as funny {and rotten} as ever.

Both kids recently had hair cuts. This was the first time that Carter sat in the chair by himself. I couldn't believe it...thankful for the toy dinosaur that kept him somewhat occupied. Hoping next time it goes even smoother. He was in desperate need of a trim. I didn't get an after picture, but here he is sitting nicely in the chair for Laura.

He looks a bit apprehensive!

He is currently OBSESSED with his matchbox cars....

as you can see:

In the top picture, he told me "Momma, they are going to the gas station!"

He always lines ALL of them up, facing the same direction.

He has taken my OCD traits to a whole new level; I thought Chloe was particular.

I need to take a picture of it, but he currently sleeps with about 15 stuffed animals in the bed with him including a monkey pillow pet that he calls Riley. This is on top of the 4 blankets he needs in the bed at all times. He knows if anything is missing...he is very on top of it. Whenever he find a stuffed animal around the house {generally they are Chloe's stuffed animals}, he immediately takes it up stairs and throws it in his bed. He doesn't realize that he needs room to actually sleep in his bed too!

I have yet to change his bed to a toddler bed for fear of him not ever staying in the bed. We didn't change Chloe until she was 3 so I'm hoping to hold out a bit longer. He is also in the throws of potty training-to be honest, he does great at daycare {dry ALL DAY} but then he gets home and I slack...so I hear things like "Momma, I just peed..." GREAT! I need to be more on it so we can get him out of diapers already!

The other day, I headed to Nashville with Brittnye, Chloe, Carter, and Austin. We were quite a sight dragging 3 kids around Green Hills Mall. Well, because we were gone most of the day and Carter refused to miss a second of Team Umizoomi in the car...he never napped. We sat down to eat dinner that night and when I looked over at him...this is what I saw. He was sacked out before he even got more than 2 bites down.

I snapped this picture outside of Cindy's the other day. He looked so big and handsome {check out the new hair cut}. 9 times out of 10, he is a good boy, but he certainly can have a sassy mouth. He likes to test me right now, but I know that is completely normal. Like when he through a fit in Walgreens the other day because I wouldn't give in to him and buy the bag of M&Ms...he proceeded to lay out in the middle of an aisle and scream. Thankfully, my big girl was there to help me out--she pushed out my cart and even loaded the few things I bought into the car for me. So grateful that she knows when to step in without even being asked.

Speaking of Chloe, she got a new hair cut as well.

Per her request, Laura cut off 4 1/2 inches. EEEKK!

I had to hold back the tears, but as you can see by her smile, she was so excited!

Her new thing is that she wants to do her own hair...I have a hard time letting go!

On our way home from school the other day, I looked at Chloe in the back seat and just couldn't help noticing what a beautiful young lady she is turning into...most of the time, she is so sweet and obliging. I really take for granted how sweet she is. Proud to be her Momma for sure!