THE BERTELLAS

Happy 4th Birthday Sophie!

2011-02-06T09:02:00.001-06:00

My sweet girl.. You are now FOUR years old! You need to slow down just a little bit because I am not ready for how fast you are changing! I can no longer see as easily my little baby. You are such a little girl that is the center of our lives..and you know it! You are so in love with make-up and putting it on everyone and you have to know where your "Caboodle" is ALL THE TIME! When we go places, mommy has to ask you to choose one or two pieces of jewelry instead of the 5-10 that you have already put on. You are obsessed with dressing/singing/acting anything PRINCESS and have every single outfit there is.. you change clothes 100 times a day.. you LOVE to sing and we love to listen to your sweet little voice!!.. Your favorites song to sing is"Part of Your World" and you know every single word! On the other hand, Miss Attitude shows her face more frequently and Mommy can't see any end in sight!! :)

You had so much fun at your Birthday Party this year! Here are some of our favorite pictures from your big day! Mommy and Daddy love you so much!

WAR EAGLE!!!!

2011-01-20T21:50:00.009-06:00

Brian made the trip to the BCS National Championship game to watch our Tigers win it all!! He, Brent and Evan had a great time! Until...their flight was cancelled on Tuesday morning and they made the decision to rent a car and drive 25 HOURS home! Brian was afraid that it would be Saturday before he could make it back to Birmingham and he would miss Sophie's birthday party!! So 1800 miles later..he made it! But it was worth it!!

Sophie and I had a princess party one night while dad was away! We watched Princess movies..did each other's make-up and nails, ate cupcakes and her favorite part was sleeping in mommy's bed!

Christmas at Mimi and Poppy's

2011-01-17T13:45:00.002-06:00

Christmas Eve and Santa

2011-01-17T13:36:00.001-06:00

Christmas 2010 Part 1

2011-01-04T16:34:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving 2010

2011-01-04T16:33:00.000-06:00

Princess Wishes on Ice

2010-11-19T12:47:00.017-06:00

She loved this! Everything about it.. She was speechless almost the entire time!! Her favorite Princess is Ariel and the Little Mermaid part of the show didn't disappoint! Mimi got to come up and go with us..and even the Bman came along..he liked it at first but it then bored him to sleep! ha! We have got to plan a Disney trip soon! :)

Trick or Treat 2010

2010-11-19T12:35:00.008-06:00

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-25T11:48:00.005-05:00

We drove down to Clanton yesterday to the Pumpkin Patch. It is always so much fun but this trip was a little different..I think we were all just a little tired from the past week.. Soph had a tummy bug last week and only had one nap the entire week! Brian and I went to the AU/LSU game on Sat so we were all making the best of it after a long weekend..

Soph was fine for the first 30 minutes or so..she had her face painted, rode the twactor twain, and then the petting zoo..leaving the petting zoo did not make her happy..it quickly went downhill after that! Ha! After throwing a fit in the sunflower field..we walked (I dragged her) over to the Hayride so we could pick out a pumpkin.. When we arrived at the Pumpkin Patch she threw her ticket down and decided she didn't want to get off the tractor.. (this is when I almost lost it)..people were staring! I knew she was tired but she never acts like this!! So we made it through picking out a pumpkin (she laid down in the dirt)..and then got back on the tractor and left!!! Enough! Oh and it was 88 degrees!!

She fell asleep in less than 30 seconds once we on the road home!

Fall 2010!

2010-10-25T11:42:00.000-05:00

First trip to the Dentist!!

2010-10-25T11:36:00.000-05:00

Sophie did great at her first dentist appt! She loved everything about it!! Her teeth looked great with no cavities and the dentist said she had good spacing in between them?! She got to make a little tile with her hand print on it..and afterwards got to pick a treat!

Baby SHOWERS!!

2010-10-25T11:33:00.000-05:00

We had Maria's baby shower back in August! She has since had baby Maverick on September 21, 2010! Pictures to come of sweet boy soon! Love you guys!

Shera's baby shower for Miss Parker was a couple of weeks ago! Parker will be here in November! I got to see some of my best friends and we had a great time!! We missed Holly and can't wait for her big day in June!

Lots to catch up on!!

2010-10-10T21:34:00.006-05:00

Catching up soon!

First Day of K3!

2010-09-14T20:46:00.004-05:00

Sophie's first day of K3 was actually last Wednesday...but due to the fact that she and Brian had a bad tummy bug most of last week..her first day was this past Friday! Mimi was up for the weekend and got to walk Soph and Brody in!!

I love this time of year..back to school, football season and we are already super excited for Halloween!

Our little Ballerina!

2010-08-21T12:35:00.002-05:00

Sophie started her first little dance class this past Thursday! She and her best buddy Emma are taking together with 5 other little girls! They LOVED IT!!! I was torn between starting her in Ballet/Tap or continuing on with gymnastics..she enjoyed gymnastics so much and was actually pretty good at it! But we are going with ballet this fall! Taking both gymnastics and ballet would be a little much in my opinion for a 3 1/2 year old..so we will see!

Summer Fun with Friends and Family

2010-08-21T12:30:00.000-05:00

OMG!!

2010-08-05T21:20:00.004-05:00

My sister thought this would be funny..to give Sophie a "make over" at my parents house one night! She and Sophie disappeared for a while and then Baby Jane appeared...scary!!!

Back to school ..

2010-08-03T16:55:00.002-05:00

Isn't this the cutest thing?? They have other ones to choose from that are just as cute!! Skip Hop Zoo Packs and lunchboxes!!! Click here for link!
Updating blog soon!!

4th of July Beach Trip

2010-07-09T14:04:00.001-05:00

We had a great 4th this year! We spent the week with my family at the beach and it was so much fun. My grandparents came down for a couple of days and got to watch the babies swim and loved it!
I was a little disappointed that it rained on the 4th.. it started just as we were getting ready to go down to the beach to watch the fireworks show off of the pier! We used to watch them when we were little and I wanted Sophie and Brody to be able to see them..
Since we missed the big show, Brent and Brian went out after it stopped raining and bought some little fireworks to pop on the beach for the kids!! IT WAS SO MUCH FUN!! It was still raining a little so I didn't take my camera..but I wish I would have gotten a few of their faces with the sparklers!
Hope everyone enjoyed their 4th as much as we did!

First trip to the MOVIES!

2010-07-09T13:22:00.005-05:00

We took Sophie to the movies for the first time and she loved everything about it! She was amazed at all of the candy and couldn't believe how big the "TV" was when we sat down! We saw Toy Story 3 and it was such a cute movie..even brought mom to tears at the end! This was a few weeks ago and since then Sophie's new favorite thing to say is "There's a snake in my boot!" Ha!

Princess Camp

2010-06-12T17:34:00.010-05:00

Soph along with her buddy Marley Rose attended Princess Camp last week at The Pointe Dance Arts. Saying they LOVED it would be an understatement!!!! What little girl would not love a week of Ballet, Tap, an appearance from a different Princess everyday, having their hair and makeup done, and making cute princess crafts! They really did learn alot too..

We got to watch and take pictures on the last day while they showed off their ballet and tap skills!

Wish me luck...I am teaching VBS next week..21 little 3yr olds!!!

Summer so far!

2010-06-12T17:25:00.001-05:00

Orange Beach 2010

2010-05-19T21:57:00.000-05:00

Pictures from our beach trip..Monday morning came too soon! We had such a great time (as always) with our wonderful friends! We saw the Black Crowes and Zac Brown Band Friday night..Celebrated Kerry's Birthday Saturday night and got to relax..sleep in..and lay on the beach and do nothing!!! Love you guys and can't wait to do it again soon!!

Trying to beat Toby and Hugh in horse-shoes..Hangout Music Fest.. view from Ferris Wheel ride..Celebrating Kerry's Birthday at Cosmo's!

Little bit of it all...

2010-05-12T14:03:00.004-05:00

The past few weeks in PICTURES!

I can't believe that Spring has gone by so fast and that Summertime (well, end of school) is here! Sophie's last day of MDO was today! Her little class had a "water day" to celebrate! We are looking forward to this summer..I am hopeful that I can do a bit more relaxing by the pool and less chasing Sophie around AND less worrying about her every move in the water!! We'll see!

I took a couple of pictures yesterday morning of Sophie at gymnastics..she has enjoyed it so much! It is crazy to see how much better she has gotten since we started back in November. I only took a few pictures of her on the beam but they do much more! They rotate the bars, beam, trampoline, and basic skills on the floor (learning mechanics of hand stands,etc)! We started out taking a Mommy and Me class in November with AnnElyse and Kendall. In January, we moved up to the Preschool class..with our little friends Mary Ruth and Lucy..they have a ball! We will be taking a little ballet class this summer..she dances around ALL the time like a little ballerina and she is so ready for a tutu..she still asks if she can wear one to gymnastics some days! We are on our way down to Gulf Shores tomorrow for the Hangout Music Festival! Brian is so excited about seeing Zac Brown Band and I am just excited to spend FIVE days BABY FREE!! :) YAY..eating, drinking, shopping, relaxing on the beach (hopefully it is oil free) and spending time with friends...CAN'T WAIT!! But first..lots and lots to do to get out the door..

Happy Wednesday!

Mother's Day

2010-05-09T20:21:00.000-05:00

I love this sweet girl beyond words. I am so blessed to be your mommy Sophie. We met KK and Aunt Kathryn at church this morning. Brian, Sophie and I were asked to take communion down for the first time..Sophie was so sweet and did great (could have easily gone the other way)!! After communion she had to go sit with her friend Marley Rose all the way across the church..kind of made me realize that my big girl really is growing up..It seems like yesterday that she sat in her little car seat during church. Me being the baby that I am, I had to fight back tears during "How Great Thou Art" thinking about it and the fact that I missed my mom and grandmom too.. I will see you both in a few weeks!

Hope everyone (if your are a mom) had a great Mother's Day too!

Sophie's Big Girl Room!

2010-04-26T16:13:00.008-05:00

I am finally motivated to change Sophie's bedroom into a big girl room..this change makes me a little sad but it is definitely time!! She is still in her crib (at age 3) :( but we have at least taken the front rails off..
We have a girly white iron bed and a sweet little antiqued bedside table already...and the bedding just arrived this morning!!
KK gave us this beautiful picture when Sophie was born. It belonged to her as a child and hung in her childhood room for years..it is special to Sophie and is what I used as the "inspiration" of our big girl room.
This is the bedding.. I wanted something simple that would work with her little picture and I thought this was sweet and girly. I also got a little white pom pom pillow that I want to monogram in blue! Can't wait to see it all put together!

There are no major transformations..no painting involved..just CLEANING out and donating a bunch of her toys and de-cluttering.. We are adding a small chandelier, a new bedside lamp and the cutest pom pom curtains! I hope you love it Sophie Bug! I will add a few pictures of her room once it is finished :)
I mentioned Artist Tree in an earlier post.. I will definitely have to ask Dondee to work up something similar to these cute paintings..I think they are precious for a little girl's room!

The Hollywood

2010-04-23T09:25:00.003-05:00

"The Hollywood", a new shopping center on Hollywood Blvd off of 280 had their groundbreaking ceremony this past week. Brian and I used to love to eat at Mexico Lindo when we first moved to Birmingham and we were sad to see it go a few years ago.. It is now being rebuilt, along with a couple of new business, in the same location!

Shannon-Waltchack Investment Real Estate are the developers and Brian (M&F Bank) has the financing for the development..which is why I am posting this! I wanted to post a couple of pictures of him at the ceremony (Copyright © Appear Photography) The groundbreaking was also on a couple of news broadcasts last week! :) I think he is the cutest thing "taking care of business" haha! I love you baby:)

A-Day!

2010-04-20T19:18:00.002-05:00

Our Easter!

2010-04-05T20:57:00.001-05:00

The loot!

Checking everything out..

Hello Kitty band aids..really? She loves them.. all band aids!!??! She was happiest about the band aids and the bunny shaped marshmellows!

We enjoyed a beautiful Easter Sunday this year at our church. Sophie was pretty good during the service so we were able to listen for the most part. After church the kids went crazy at the egg hunt!

KK and Aunt Kathryn came over for an early dinner. Sophie loved her Easter baskets they gave her..especially her Snow White doll and princess pom poms! We had dinner on the deck and then dad hid more eggs for Sophie to find! She fell asleep on the couch at 6:00 and slept ALL NIGHT!

All things Easter!

2010-04-05T20:22:00.000-05:00

Birthdays and a Baby Shower!

2010-04-05T20:07:00.000-05:00

We hosted, along with friends, a baby shower for Sarah and John a couple of weeks ago! Baby Scarlet will be here in May and we can't wait to meet her! She will be blessed with two wonderful parents and so many friends that love her! We have also helped celebrate a couple of birthdays in the past few weeks! Cousin Rylie and sweet friend Maddie Beth both turned three in March!

These two are so in love with each other! They are best school buddies and are inseparable!

The "Balla" Cup Champion

2010-04-05T19:40:00.001-05:00

Brian and seven of his buddies take a little golf trip down to Farmlinks every year. They stay over night (in an very nice cottage on the course), play a million holes of golf in two days, AND have a personal chef to cook their meals!!

Well, this year he actually won their little "tournament" and decided that his "Balla Trophy" belonged on our mantle..Ha! He was joking of course..but he really was proud of it!

Brian swears he can hear B Reilly sobbing when he holds his dear trophy! haha (Brian made me write that Brent) :)

Bertella Family Dinner

2010-03-28T22:09:00.000-05:00

Last weekend the entire Bertella gang got together for dinner at Inverness CC. It had been a while since we were all able to get together (and there were still a few that couldn't make it) but it was so much fun! The kiddos ran around and played outside and then we enjoyed a yummy dinner!
Sophie is going to have another little cousin to play with soon...Aunt Maria and Uncle Jordan are expecting!!

Earlier that day we went to the zoo and I took the cutest picture of Soph and Emma prissing around with their matching purses..:)

Catching up..well, almost..

2010-03-28T18:38:00.007-05:00

I have been scolded for not keeping up with my blog..(for you Sarah, Liz and Kerry!)

St. Patty's Day fun..we made green cupcakes together!

Getting ready for Peter Cottontail at Mimi and Poppy's house..

A few of our favorite things (obsessions)...our dress up dolls..

playing dress up 24-7!!..she NEVER wants to wear her normal clothes (unless it is her pink shirt with the "S" on it..don't know why but she always want to wear it) ..we have a rotation of her Hello Kitty outfit, her yellow princess gown and her purple princess and the frog gown! Not to mention the tutu's!!!! She has a mind of her own these days.. and tea parties.. EVERYONE that comes over to our house is asked at least 10 times if they want to have a tea party..she loves setting her dolls up and serving them tea too..so sweet! I got to watch Brent coach one of his baseball games when we were visiting my parents one weekend..GG and I drove over to his game and had so much fun!

Birthday parties, baby showers, Easter Bunny pictures and the Bertella dinner/reunion to come!!

Fun things!

2010-03-11T22:08:00.005-06:00

Who knew that a pair of sparkle shoes from Target could make this one so happy! She hasn't taken them off in over a week!!! Seriously...she LOVES them!! She threw the biggest fit last Monday because she had to take them off for school..(I was afraid of blisters)!! Grocery store, errands, everywhere..even out to dinner one night last week with friends..she insisted on wearing them to show her buddy Jack!

Mimi bought the shoes along with the tackiest Princess gown..but we love it!

Kellan's party was a few weekend's ago..we drove up on Sunday afternoon for his party at the "Little Gym" and it was so much fun..Happy Birthday Kellan!! We love you!She would not let go of her bubbles..even after she fell asleep!

The Chili Cookoff was packed..but we had a great time! Sophie was a little pill to begin with..she wanted nothing to do with chili tasting..she only cared about the park!! It was a beautiful day to be outside!

Hope everyone has a great weekend!! Spring is just around the corner..yay!!

I'm just making myself pretty mom!

2010-03-10T19:00:00.004-06:00

As I have mentioned before, this child is OBSESSED with lip gloss! She has a million tubes of her own but that is never enough. I have to hide my lip gloss from her or this is what happens..

Apparently lip gloss is not just for your lips anymore.. it was all over her face, hands, dress, legs, and the couch. She thought it was hilarious!

Brody's Birthday Pictures!

2010-03-10T16:46:00.002-06:00

Handpainted Easter Basket

2010-02-16T18:04:00.008-06:00

If you are looking for a cute handpainted Easter Basket this year..you must add Artist Tree (Dondee) on facebook and look at all of her cute handpainted items!! She paints canvas', platters, wall hangers..you name it! Dondee is from my hometown :)...and she is one talented girl!!!

Brody is ONE!

2010-02-16T14:09:00.004-06:00

More pictures of his sweet party later!

Valentines Week

2010-02-16T14:06:00.005-06:00

We put Sophie's little treats for school together one night last week.. As we worked on them, I would sneak an M&M or two here and there.. Miss Priss finally had enough and told me to "STOP mom!!, those M&Ms (pronounced M-E-Ms) are for my friends..not you!!" ha ha!

She was so excited Wednesday morning to give them out to her little friends..the first thing she said to me when she came down stairs was "My kids are going to love their chocolates!!" haha "Kids???" Not sure why she called her friends her "kids" but she was ready to go..

On our way out the door with our Valentines..

Thursday night, my mom and gandparents arrived for Brody's birthday weekend. We had dinner, made Valentines cookies and they gave Soph and Brody their Valentine gifts! I feel very blessed to be able to watch Sophie with her great grandparents! GG and Tippy's faces light up when they are with the babies! Had to make a stop by Edgars to pick up some of their delicious cupcakes!! I thought they were so cute..I had to take a picture before I ate it!!

Happy Birthday Sweet Boy!!

2010-02-09T22:15:00.003-06:00

Today is the Bman's 1st Birthday!! We are celebrating this weekend but today is the big day! I love you so much and can't believe how fast you are growing! Happy Birthday!!

Fun at the Circus!

2010-02-09T22:10:00.005-06:00

I should title this post JUNK FOOD FREE-FOR-ALL!! Between Sophie and her dad they inhaled a huge box of popcorn, a candied apple, cotton candy and a pretzel!!! ha!
We had a fun family night and Sophie really got into it..mostly the animals! My favorite part was the motorcyclist, they were unbelievable!! I was so nervous for them! Oh and the girls that could bend their bodies into any shape were pretty crazy too!

FYI..If I look like I just rolled out of bed..I did! Well, off of the couch. I spent ALL day feeling horrible from the worst cold ever!!

Portrait of Aunt Brooke

2010-02-02T17:25:00.002-06:00

Sophie called me into the kitchen this afternoon and said, "Look mom, I drew Aunt Brooke!" I was so proud of her..she has been drawing smiley faces for a while now..but this one had hair, legs and shoes (so she says)!!

HollyDays Blog

2010-01-30T13:03:00.005-06:00

Check out Holly's Blog! She did such a great job with Sophie's party invitations, thank you notes and favor stickers!
Thanks Holly! Please contact her for anything and everything you may need! She's got it and she is GREAT!

I want it all!!

2010-01-29T13:44:00.002-06:00

If you have never been to this website..you have to go!! I seriously want everything they have!! Happy Friday!

Sweet Cheeks

2010-01-29T13:27:00.001-06:00

Birthday with Family

2010-01-22T09:50:00.001-06:00

After the party..she crashed!!

Only picture that I have with the birthday girl!After the "girl" party, my dad and brother arrived and Brian was allowed to come up from the basement! ha! It was so cold outside that we decided to stay in for the afternoon and enjoy Sophie and Brody playing with all of the new toys! Saturday night we all went out to eat.. Mimi and Poppy kept the babies so we all could enjoy a night out!

Sunday PapaLou and Carla came to visit and to give Sophie her birthday presents! Thank you for a wonderful weekend! We love you all very much!

Sugar and Spice...

2010-01-22T09:21:00.004-06:00

Took this pic before she could get her little finger down..it's 3, not 4! ;)

Sophie enjoyed her birthday party so much this year! We decided to have it at our house and invite over her precious little girlfriends for a Pink Birthday Brunch! The girls played dress up, made little beaded necklaces, ate lots of lots of sugar and played so well together!!

I can't believe that three years have come and gone so quickly. I try so hard to stay in the moment and be thankful for every second of our day together. She will be grown one day and not want to "love on me just a little bit" (so sweet when she says that to me) or to play on the floor with her daddy every afternoon when he gets home from work...there are millions of other little things that make our hearts melt everyday. Mommy and Daddy love you so much Sophie!

It's the weekend!

2010-01-15T15:55:00.010-06:00

Yay! The weekend is here!! Wanted to share a few pictures from here and there..

Which pair shall I wear today..?? All this for a piece of chocolate...
Hope everyone has a great long weekend! We are on the road again.. birthday pictures soon! Love to all :-)

Happy Birthday Sophie!

2010-01-10T20:34:00.004-06:00

Happy 3rd Birthday my sweet baby girl..you have given us the happiest three years of our lives and we love you with all of our hearts!

Three years ago today...

2010-01-10T20:32:00.000-06:00

Trying out my new camera!

2010-01-04T15:20:00.000-06:00

Boy have I waited a long time for a new camera!! My wonderful husband surprised me with it Christmas morning! I started dropping hints for it in July for my birthday..but instead I got my beautiful watch..which I LOVE!! So Santa knew that my old camera was on its last leg and sent one down the chimney for me!

Christmas Night!

2010-01-04T15:14:00.002-06:00

Christmas Night 2009!

Sophie loves her Poppy!About to make our delicious Christmas Sangria!These two were all over the place..the center of attention!My mom did a great job with everything!! GG telling the Christmas story and prayer!Brent scared everyone with this creepy barbie head all weekend!!! ha!

Holly Jolly Christmas!

2010-01-04T14:48:00.002-06:00

Santa came and brought lots of goodies down the chimney!! The first thing Sophie said when she saw her presents was "Ooooo My Goodness! Who brought me all of this?" Her little face was so sweet and she kept saying "Thank you Santa!" She LOVES her new barbie jeep! She packed as much stuff as she could in the back of it! She talked about wanting one for months and months! Santa gave Emma one last Christmas, so of course, Sophie wanted one too!!

After opening all of our gifts, we headed over to KK's for brunch before traveling down to Hartford to spend the weekend with my family.

Christmas Eve 2009

2010-01-03T20:06:00.002-06:00

Christmas Eve was so exciting this year! Sophie seems to understand a little bit about Christmas and what it means..we have explained to her that we celebrate Christmas because it is Jesus's birthday... and she was the cutest thing walking around our house singing Happy Birthday to him all month long!
We made it to the 4:00 mass at church (it was PACKED) and she loved the little Christmas program the children put on..she saw the little angels and wanted to dress up as one so badly! After church, we had dinner and then Santa came by on a firetruck! She is so afraid of sirens and was scared at first but the second she saw him she screamed "HEEEEY Santa, I love you so much!" PapaLou read The Night Before Christmas to her, she and Brian fed the Reindeer and we put out the cucidati cookies and milk for Santa that PapaLou made! Then it was off to bed to wait for St Nick!

Celebrating with friends!

2010-01-03T19:58:00.004-06:00

We celebrated with friends at our house the weekend before Christmas..so much fun! This was the best picture of us posing! haha! The boys would kill me if I posted some of the others!! Love you guys!

Breakfast with Santa

2009-12-20T19:28:00.003-06:00

We had Breakfast with Santa Friday at school. It was so nice and the food was really good! Sophie and her two of her little friends, Marley and Cecelia, were so cute. They ran around and played until Santa made his grand entrance! Their little faces were priceless when they saw him! After waiting in line Sophie ran up when it was her turn, sat down, smiled for the camera..then turned to Santa and said, " OK, where's my candy cane??" What a priss!

COOKIES!!

2009-12-14T14:05:00.001-06:00

The Malones hosted their annual Cookie Decorating Party Sunday afternoon! I think it gets bigger every year..26 kids this year!!

Christmas Party Time!

2009-12-14T13:55:00.001-06:00

We met friends for our annual Christmas Dinner at the Melting Pot Saturday night! We had so much fun and are so thankful to have such wonderful friends! Merry Christmas!

Sugar Fix!

2009-12-08T22:01:00.006-06:00

Pretty little tree

2009-12-08T21:58:00.001-06:00

KK bought Sophie a little white Christmas tree to put in her room! She loves her KK and her new tree!!

Merry Merry

2009-12-07T20:07:00.006-06:00

Santa, I want makeup and lots of LIPGLOSS!!

2009-12-07T19:57:00.005-06:00

Brian and I took Sophie to see Santa @ the Galleria yesterday. I really wanted to go to Brookwood but Brian insisted that we go to the Galleria because it was closer to Home Depot and that was our second stop of the day! So we waited in line for ONE HOUR to see Santa. Sophie (unlike most of the children around us) was SO GOOD and patient..this was VERY surprising! She held my hand and stared at Santa most of the time. She couldn't wait to sit in his lap and tell him that she wanted some makeup for Christmas! If only that is all I had to buy.. Merry Christmas!!

Where the Christmas trees live

2009-12-07T19:32:00.007-06:00

We went out last Tuesday night to pick out our Christmas tree. It was SOO cold but Brian didn't want to wait another day! Sophie had a great time running through all of the trees..she told us she wanted to pick it out..she ran around like crazy!! She wouldn't slow down for a second..her pony tail came down from getting tangled in a tree and we had to make her stop to put on her jacket!! She has told me almost everynight since then that she wants to go back to "where the Christmas trees live"!!! hahaha She is so sweet and is loving everything Christmas!

BoBo the Elf!

2009-11-30T13:59:00.001-06:00

Thursday night Bobo the Elf arrived! Sophie was in our bed watching a movie when Dad discovered him in her room..Sophie was over the top excited when she saw him! We read the book together and she picked out his name! She loves to find him each morning!

Gobble! Gobble!

2009-11-30T13:56:00.001-06:00

We celebrated Thanksgiving with PapaLou, Aunt Maria, Uncle Jordan and Aunt Kathryn on Wednesday night..PapaLou and Jordan fried a big turkey and we had tons of yummy sides to go with it! We drove back home on Thursday and Brian cooked his first turkey to take to KK's for dinner! He destroyed the kitchen but the turkey turned out SO GOOD! He stuffed the turkey with an onion, apple, celery, garlic and butter and covered it with olive oil, butter, salt and pepper! We ate dinner and put up KK's HUGE Christmas tree..which has at least 1000 ornaments on it!! :-) Can't wait to put ours up this week!

Thank you Aunt Jenna!

2009-11-30T13:44:00.000-06:00

Wanted to post some of the cute pictures of Sophie and Jenna from Jenna's Bridesmaid Luncheon. Jenna gave Sophie a beautiful Cross Necklace as her flower girl gift.. Sophie loves it so much!

Books to Bed

2009-11-24T13:37:00.006-06:00

I thought this would be a cute little gift for Sophie and wanted to share! I have seen these everywhere lately and for only around 38.00! They have them at Chasing Fireflies , Amazon, Saks and tons of other online boutiques. The best deal is at Paisley Monkey ..you can use this code DaddyDrama15off to save 5.00!! They have them for boys too!
Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving Week!!

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Brent Justice :-)

2009-11-24T13:30:00.002-06:00

What a PERFECT wedding!! Everything (and everyone) was beautiful and we had SOO much fun! I have many more pictures from the bridesmaid luncheon, rehearsal dinner and the wedding to post.. but here are a few of my favorites! Love you Jbug and so happy that you are now "officially" our sister!!

Fun with Family and Friends

2009-11-18T20:43:00.002-06:00

Jenna and Brent are getting married this weekend!! I am @ my parents already and I can't tell you how excited and happy I am for them!! We have tied up loose ends today at a million different places (with both babies) and now I am relaxing with a glass (or three) of vino before everything gets started! :-)

Here are a couple of pictures from her Batchelorette party weekend and from her Miscellaneous Shower! and a little bit of everything else as of late..

Happy Birthday Annelyse!Uncle Drew stopped by to visit on his way back to Nashville last weekend. Sophie would not leave him alone..she loved playing with him and bugging him to death!! Sophie also had her first sleep over friend! Emma spent the night with us and the girls had a blast!! We baked cookies, jumped on the bed and pulled every toy that we own out!! They slept in the guest room and didn't go to sleep until around 11:00!

Halloween Weekend

2009-11-03T08:27:00.003-06:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful Halloween Weekend! We had a great time watching Sophie run around in her witch costume and trick or treat! I think that this years costume totally fit her little personality.. she certainly played it up! She loved to make the "scary witch face" and she kept saying "I'll get you my pretty!!" It was just precious! Friday night we went over to Veterans Park for the hayride and to do some trick or treating.. we made it before the rain came and had a blast!

We spent the day Saturday out and about shopping with Mimi, then Saturday afternoon KK came by to see Soph in her cosutme and brought her LOTS of candy!! Saturday night we went over to trick or treat with the Malones and the Mussos! They have a great neighborhood for trick or treating..Sophie loved the popcorn machine and all of the scary decorations!! More pictures to come this afternoon.. have to get ready for Sophie's little gymnastics class this morning!:-)

Our October

2009-11-03T08:26:00.000-06:00

Sophie's First Auburn Game

2009-11-03T08:23:00.003-06:00

We took Sophie to the AU/Kentucky game a couple of weekends ago. It was a cold day but sunny..and she did great! We got to Auburn around 2:00 and had a late lunch with PapaLou on College Street @ Jimmy John's..then walked through campus to tailgate with the Hughes' for a while before Tiger Walk.

Sophie loved Tiger Walk..especially the band! She was such a trooper during the game, we had great seats thanks to the Macon's!! We wrapped up in a blanket and enjoyed our hotdogs and popcorn while we looked for Aubie, danced to the band and cheered with the cheerleaders! We left @ halftime because it was getting pretty cold! We had a great time considering that the game was horrible.. :( War Eagle!

Happy Halloween Week!

2009-10-28T21:39:00.003-05:00

Hope everyone is having a fun week! We carved our pumpkin tonight and it turned out so cute..of course Sophie wanted a witch! We are enjoying all of the fall festivals and Halloween parties that we can..Lots of things to post..update soon!

Soph's new hairdo!

2009-10-16T15:10:00.002-05:00

BeforeAfter We had lots to do today..and a haircut for the little lady was on the agenda!! My mom has told me a couple of times that Soph needs a haircut so I really posted so she could see it! (she is still having a hard time figuring out facebook..haha :-)

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend...going to be nice and chilly!! We are taking Sophie to the AU vs Kentucky game tomorrow.. Hope it is nothing like last weekend! :-) Love to all!

My little Witchie Poo

2009-10-15T17:42:00.004-05:00

There is no doubt this year what the Queen of our house wants to be for Halloween!! Kay bought Sophie this "friendly witch" a couple of weeks ago and she has to be turned on every night before Sophie goes to bed so she can watch her "sparkle" as she calls it! The witch has a sweet face and lights in her hair and dress that change color.

October kind of slipped up on me and I hadn't really given much thought as to what Sophie would be this year.. until she got her little witch! She is obsessed with it! I pulled up a couple of different things online..I figured she would love to dress up as Snow White being that we watch that movie at least three times a week..but she kept telling me "NO!, I want to be a witch for Halloween!!" So a witch it is..

Happy October!

Pumpkin Spice Whoopies

2009-10-12T09:06:00.000-05:00

Oh how I love FALL!! I found this recipe on Better Homes and have to try it..don't you just love the name..Whoopies!! :-)

Ingredients
1 cup canned pumpkin
1/3 cup butter, softened
1 package 2-layer-size spice cake mix
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 recipe Marshmallow-Spice Filling (see recipe below)

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 375 degree F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or foil (grease foil, if using). In a large mixing bowl beat pumpkin and butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Add cake mix, eggs, and milk; beat on low speed until combined, and then on medium speed for 1 minute.

2. By the heaping tablespoon, drop mounds of batter 3 inches apart on cookie sheet; keep remaining batter chilled. Bake 15 minutes or until set and lightly browned around edges. Carefully remove from parchment or foil; cool on wire rack. Repeat with remaining batter, lining cooled cookie sheets each time with new parchment or foil. If desired, place cookies in a covered storage container with waxed paper between layers to prevent sticking. Store cookies at room temperature for 24 hours. Prepare Marshmallow-Spice Filling up to 2 hours before serving. Spread about 2-1/2 tablespoons filling on flat side of one cookie; top with a second cookie. Repeat. Serve immediately or cover and chill up to 2 hours.

Makes 15 whoopies.

Marshmallow-Spice Filling: Up to 2 hours before serving, beat together 1/2 cup softened butter and one 8-ounce package softened cream cheese until smooth. Add 2 cups sifted powdered sugar, 1/2 of a 7-ounce jar marshmallow cream, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and 1/2 teaspoon each ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Beat until well combined.

Elf on the Shelf!

2009-10-04T16:14:00.008-05:00

I can NOT tell you how excited I am that Sophie is old enough for Elf on the Shelf this year!!! I got him on Ebay for $29.99 with free shipping!!

We love Mimi!

2009-10-04T16:02:00.004-05:00

Sophie sharing her "dum-dum" with Brody!

Mimi came up on Friday to visit for the weekend! We had so many fun things planned to do together and got to do most of them! On Friday we took the kiddos to Aunt Brooke's pep rally @ Spain Park. Soph always loves to see the cheerleaders. We will sometimes drop by to watch the girls practice or visit Aunt Brooke and the first thing Sophie says is, "I want to see the cheerleaders..are they exercising?" hahaha She also tells me that she wants to hug them before we leave! So after the pep rally we shopped around town for a little bit and then went out for Mexican! Yum!

Saturday was so much fun! Mom, Brooke and I enjoyed some girl time (plus Brody) shopping around Homewood.. We had lunch and then drove out to Mt Laurel for the Fall Festival! It was the most beautiful day, absolutely perfect weather to spend the day outside. The festival had face painting, inflatables, and some cute stuff for sale including the most beautiful mums! Snow White was supposed to be there but we missed seeing her..Soph was not happy about that!! She spent the night @ Aunt Brooke's with Mimi while Brian and I enjoyed a free night watching AU vs TENN with friends!

This morning we went to Aunt Brooke's church and then had brunch @ Village Tavern before Mimi had to say Goodbye.. Sophie always has a hard time with Mimi leaving so we have to wait until she falls asleep!! :( We love you Mimi and had a wonderful time!

Cutie Patooties!

2009-10-01T16:02:00.002-05:00

What a cute little bunch of 2 year olds!!

Love this little fella!

2009-10-01T15:59:00.000-05:00

What a Beautiful Day!

2009-09-29T16:52:00.003-05:00

We went to the park this morning to play a little..I wanted to spend as much time outside as possible today, this weather is unbelievable!! The girls had so much fun! This afternoon Em came over to play while Caroline went to the Dr..they played in the driveway with sidewalk chalk, rode around in the little cars and had popsicles!! The video is just a tiny bit of their cute little conversations! They are just so sweet together!

Silly!

2009-09-29T16:42:00.000-05:00

From this past weekend.. she was being so silly and wouldn't stop shaking her booty everywhere! Hope everyone is enjoying this beautiful day.. I hate we had to come in for naptime! Happy Fall!

Dirty Dip

2009-09-18T15:59:00.004-05:00

I am on my way to the grocery store to get the ingredients for both of these yummy dips..thought I would share..they are two good recipes to know! This one is a family favorite, you have to try it!!

4 large tomatoes, diced
1 can of sliced black olives
1 bunch green onion, chopped
1 small can of green chilies
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons garlic salt

Mix and refrigerate overnight..serve with Scoops!

Jalapeno Corn Dip Recipe

2009-09-18T15:52:00.003-05:00

This is the recipe that we made this past weekend..and a fav @ all of our AU tailgates!
I think I may have to make it again for this weekend's football festivities..it is that good!
Click here for another good one!!

2 cans Mexican corn, drained
1 bunch green onions, chopped
1 (4 ounce) can jalapeno peppers, chopped (I add more and I like big chunks!)
2 tablespoons vinegar
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup sour cream
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Mix all ingredients and refrigerate overnight. Serve with Fritos scoops! Hope everyone has a GREAT WEEKEND!

Weekend at Mimi and Poppy's

2009-09-14T22:32:00.001-05:00

We have so much fun when we go to Mimi and Poppy's house..so much to do in so little time! We left Thurs morning to go down for the weekend and it went by so fast! We managed to squeeze in watching the bulldogs play (my high school team) @ GG and Tippy's house (they live across the street from the football field) Friday night..Sophie LOVED the cheerleaders and the band.. She marched around everywhere and played with my old poms and megaphone.. I didn't have my camera with me :-(

We also went to Jenna's Monograms and Mimosas Brunch Saturday morning in Dothan.. Sophie was amazed with all of the gifts and opened one up before it was time! After the shower we shopped around for a little bit before heading home. When we got back Poppy was waiting to take us out to see the cows and ride the tractor at the farm! This could keep Sophie entertained for hours, so much to see and do! After the farm trip we came back and started getting ready for the Auburn game.. we made a few dips and grilled out and made some yummy chocolate cupcakes! I will have to post the corn dip recipe that we made.. it is SO GOOD!!

We had a great time and it is always sad to leave my family! Enjoy OLD MCDONALD video...she loves her Uncle Brent!

1st day of school

2009-09-09T15:09:00.001-05:00

I am so proud of Sophie..She was such a big girl today! I really and truly expected a phone call at some point to tell me that she wouldn't stop crying! But I never did!!

She was back and forth about going to school this morning..she would say "I'm going to school today momma, and I not going to cry!"..and in the next few minutes.. "I'm not going to school today momma, I stay here with you!"

Once lunch was packed and we were all dressed and of course took a few pictures outside.. we loaded up and were on our way! We sang in the car on the way and talked about getting ice cream afterwards.. I happened to notice that she was leaning towards the window on her side in her car seat trying to look around the passenger seat in front of her.. I kept asking what she was looking at and she would say "Nothing, momma!" I finally figured out that she was watching to see where we were going.. when we crossed over 150 and she knew we were going to church..she yelled "We not go this way!!" and she starts crying. She cried in the parking lot and once we got inside until she saw the other little kids. We signed in and before I could even give her a hug and kiss she had walked inside the classroom!!

Brian met me to pick her up and we walked in together to get her..I heard her scream "There's my mommy and daddy!!" I was so happy to see her! Her teacher said that she cried MAYBE two minutes after I left and was so good! She made a cute placemate, an apple tree out of construction paper for us and she also loved showing off her stickers and stamps on her hands! I was sad to leave her this morning but my sweet baby is growing up!

Just Pictures!

2009-09-09T14:51:00.002-05:00

Cute pics from the past few weeks!

At Botanical Gardens...At Sheppard's Christening I can't believe that I didn't take one picture this past weekend of our AU cookout!! We ended up not going to the game and instead cooking out with friends! Brian is going down next weekend with the boys but we will be going soon (not sure which one) and taking Sophie to her first game!

Meet the Teachers!

2009-09-01T07:29:00.000-05:00

Sophie met her new teachers Monday morning, Ms. Laura Frances and Ms. Shawn! She cried just a little bit as we walked towards the building but she warmed right up to her teachers and went on inside to play! I pretty much had to bribe her to get her to come with me when it was time to go.. (she had four baby dolls in her arms..it wasn't easy)!!! I had to pull out the Panera Bread cinnamon crunch bagel bribe...works everytime! haha Can't wait for the first day!

Saturday afternoon randomness..

2009-08-29T14:29:00.009-05:00

I love Saturday afternoons..especially when I feel well.. I have had horrible sinus congestion for the past two days..and a sore throat :( booo.. Brian was up and out the door when the sun came up this morning to play in the "Club Championship"..I put it quotations because apparently it is big deal and B couldn't miss it!! ALL THREE DAYS!!
Anywhoo.. Soph is asleep and I have finished two pair of pants for her this morning. YAY! Brian just got in and is now on the couch WATCHING golf and we have a couple of hours to kill before we have to get ready for sweet Sheppard's christening tonight..so I figured I would get in some computer time! I do have the greatest intentions of getting back to blogging about our daily lives..until then..I thought you (if you have little ones) would enjoy!!

**I think this is the cutest thing.. Piggy Story Art
A friend told me about this I immediately thought it would be a perfect way to keep Sophie busy in the car or at church!! This is just one example of some of the stuff they have..

**Also, I am loving these little screenprinted tee shirts! This Etsy shop Smitten&Company has tons of precious designs.. a megaphone, purse, teapot, Christmas tree, they are all too cute!! I think they would be so cute to play in with some little gingham ruffle pants! The shirts are only $18.00!!

I am SO EXCITED about this fall!! Lots and lots of things going on..Soph starts MDO, and her first AU football game, Oct trip to Key West, Halloween is just around the corner, AND Brent and Jenna's WEDDING!! Have a great weekend and love to all! :-)

Visit with Holly

2009-08-25T22:09:00.012-05:00

One of my best friends from high school came to visit all the way from California! My sweet Holly spent Sunday-Tuesday with us and we had so much fun!! Holly is a casting director in LA and casts for Biggest Loser..I am so proud of her and so happy to get to spend a few days catching up!

Brian cooked dinner for us Sunday night... He made Rigatoni with pancetta, tomatoes and mushrooms and it was SO GOOD! We spent Monday @ the zoo with Rachel and Miss Lily.. It was beautiful out and we had a wonderful time. Afterwards we ate @ Moma G's for old time sake (AU)! We also had margaritas on the deck @ Pablos Monday night and made it to the park this morning before saying Goodbye! Sophie absolutely loves Aunt Holly and hated to see her go!

FYI..More cute stuff!

2009-08-25T21:52:00.004-05:00

I love when blogs I read post links to cute stuff..it is always fun to see what other people like! These are the cutest little lunchboxes..they come in toddler size too ($20.00)! I have found them on a couple of cute websites but these are by BabyFaceDesign! I also ordered some cute waterproof labels from Renee.. 24 labels for $15.oo!

MDO and Cute Bag Tags!

2009-08-20T20:31:00.002-05:00

I am so excited that my sweet little girl is about to start "school".. I know it is only Mom's Day Out but it still counts! I have been talking with Sophie over the last few weeks about school and how she is going to be there without me for a while. She seems to be excited about it and has told me that she is not going to cry and be a big girl! I say that because we have had a really hard time with the nursery at church..which is where "school" is as well. She usually cries most if not all of the time while in the nursery but we are making progress. Brian has been taking and picking her up from the nursery on Sunday mornings and the crying has pretty much stopped! She cries a little on the way but is fine as soon as he leaves.. so we are crossing our fingers that she will not cry the entire time at MDO.. and that we will not be getting any calls to tell us that she is no longer welcome!! haha It definitely could happen..we will see!
I had some little bag tags made for her backpack and lunchbox and they are too cute! I ordered them from HollyDays if you want to check out the website..cute cute stuff!

Slacker

2009-08-10T15:26:00.005-05:00

I've been slacking on keeping my blog updated this summer..I am going to try to keep up with things a little bit better once we get back into a routine this fall! Random cute pictures from the past few weeks..Happy Monday!Sidewalk chalk..one of our favorite things to do!Brody chewing on Sophie's barbie toothbrush!

With Mimi and Poppy @ Aunt Brooke's house PapaLou always finds a way to entertain her! KK's Birthday dinner!

Wow.. I'm 30!!

2009-08-03T22:05:00.002-05:00

My wonderful husband and sister surprised me with a perfect birthday weekend the weekend before the big day! My sister planned a birthday lunch at her house for me on Saturday and managed to have the rest of our family there without me knowing!! On Saturday night, Brian arranged a birthday dinner with friends at Gianmarcos to surprise me!! Great food..wine and the best family and friends! Thank you all for making my 30th birthday so special!

I have more pictures to post later.. I am so sleepy and about to go to bed! Night all!

Destin and Orange Beach 2009

2009-07-20T22:21:00.002-05:00

We spent the first part of the week in Destin with The Justiss'. We had a great time cooking, going to the beach and getting to play with William. We all went to dinner Sunday night with the Herndons.. it was so good to see everyone! We drove to Orange Beach on Tuesday to spend the rest of the week with Chad, Jen and Kellan. My family was also down for the last part of the week! It was beautiful weather everyday except one.. here are some of the pictures from the week.

4th of July treat

2009-06-30T21:08:00.004-05:00

Hostess with the Mostess has so many good recipes and party ideas.. I saw this and immediately knew I wanted to make this for this weekend...

Ingredients

1 8-ounce carton vanilla low-fat yogurt
1/4 teaspoon almond extract or 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 of an 8-ounce container frozen light whipped dessert topping, thawed
3 cups fresh raspberries and/or cut-up fresh strawberries
3 cups fresh blueberries

Directions

1. In a large bowl, stir together yogurt and almond extract or vanilla. Fold in whipped topping.
2. To serve, in six 12-ounce glasses or dessert dishes, alternate layers of the berries with layers of the yogurt mixture.
Makes 6 servings.
Make-Ahead Directions: Prepare parfaits as directed through Step 2. Cover and chill for up to 1 hour.

Yummy Chicken with Zucchini

2009-06-30T21:03:00.003-05:00

Wanted to share a yummy, easy recipe.. I used to make this alot when I was in college.. but I had forgotten about it until recently. I made it tonight and Brian and Sophie loved it!

Ingredients:

Boneless chicken breasts or chicken tenderloins (I prefer the chicken tenderloins..seem juicier)
Zucchini-(you could use summer squash too)
Fav tomato sauce-(I used Barilla Mushroom and Garlic tonight bc I had it)
Shredded Mozzarella
Parmesan cheese

Preheat to 350

Season chicken breasts and sliced zucchini (I use a creole seasoning-Tony Chachere's- on everything..and it tastes so good on this..) and place on top of a square of tin foil
Top with the tomato sauce and cheeses..
Wrap it up to make a little packet.. make sure to leave space between the cheese and the foil so it won't stick when you unwrap!
Bake for 30-40 minutes!

I served it over angel hair pasta and with a pear salad! Soo good!

She said YES!

2009-06-29T04:58:00.009-05:00

It has been so nice to be home an entire day.. with no place to go! It seems like it has been forever since I have had one of these days.. and my house shows it! I always seem to lose control of house cleaning during the summer time.. but oh well.. it will get done, eventually! Since I posted last we have had some exciting news... Brent and Jenna are FINALLY engaged!! :-) Brent popped the question Father's Day weekend! We had a family celebration Saturday celebrating the engagement and all of the wonderful fathers in our family!

Sweet Lillie Claire testing out the cake!

Poppy with his new grill!

Subtle hints...

2009-06-29T04:38:00.000-05:00

I will be turning the big 3-0 in less than one month on July 27th! I always thought that turning 30 would be a huge deal and that I would be so sad to leave my 20's.. but the only thing I can think about now is what I want my husband to buy me!! hahaha I have a few things in mind.. nothing big and fancy...
but I would SOOO love one of these...Canon EOS Rebel Xsi
haha.. more of my subtle hints to come..