Crozier Crew

End of the Year Hodge Podge

2011-12-30T22:21:00.000-05:00

Here are a few pictures that I thought were cute.

Obviously, McKinney you are so excited to have a new friend.

Rebekah, you are loving your monkey snuggie, hat, and book.

McKinney, you are enjoying learning to shoot your bow. I think you are going to make a great archer - just like your Pop!!

You have enjoyed having Dasher sleep in your bed.

Christmas Day

2011-12-26T22:30:00.000-05:00

Christmas morning and there are slippers outside your doors. Rebekah and McKinney, yours were outside Rebekah's room where you both slept.

And Micah - yours!!

Stockings are stuffed

Santa left some great treats for Rebekah. A new bike, and iPod touch, and, some American Girl "stuff".

McKinney's treats are some Star Wars things, a camera, and a bow and arrow set.

Joyful Soul, you were super excited about Santa coming this year. This was the first year you really understood Santa coming. He brought you some more Take Along Thomas train sets, a LeapFrog Leapster, and Bomb Blastin' Mater.

Unfortunately, while opening McKinney's bow & arrow set, Daddy sliced his finger with a pocket knife. This really threw a wrench in our Christmas morning plans. I have no pictures of you guys opening your gifts or stockings. I had to rush Daddy to the ER while Pop came and got you ready for church and you guys went to Christmas service with Pop, Gaga, Gran, and Grandad. It was an eventful and emotional morning for all of us, but we are thankful Daddy was okay and we were still able to celebrate the birth of our Savior with family that day!

Had to put in this picture to show Daddy's "bum thumb".

Once Pop and Gaga brought you home from church we had a really BIG surprise for you. A new addition to our family is a cute little kitty. You guys were very surprised and super excited!!

Although we tried to explain the importance of letting the kitty get used to you, McKinney - you couldn't keep your hands off of him. He is a huge answer to your pleas for a pet inside. I think you two are going to be fast friends!!

You guys decided to name him Dasher (after the first of Santa's reindeer) and because he dashes around the house!!

Rebekah, you did get to ride your bike for a few brief moments before the heavy rain moved in.

McKinney, you can't get enough.

In the afternoon, Daddy's family came over for some more celebrating. Here is Aunt Cathie, Aunt Christy, Uncle Doug, and Uncle Mariano.

Gran and Grandad and Curtis on the couch.

McKinney, SUPER excited about the hex bugs from Gran and Grandad.

Loves your new hat - exactly what you picked out!!

Love this picture of Curtis helping Micah put together his pirate ship.

You guys are so blessed that you have so many family members that love you so deeply. Gran and Grandad are such a blessing to our family. Next year there will be two more grandchildren in this picture when after Aunt Christy has the twins.

Getting Ready for Santa

2011-12-26T20:51:00.000-05:00

Christmas Eve and what does that mean??? Christmas jammies of course.

Checking the chimney to make sure it is all clear for Santa.

And don't forget milk and cookies.

Christmas at Pop & Gaga's (the McKinney's)

2011-12-26T18:09:00.000-05:00

Christmas Eve at Mom & Dad's is one of the highlights of my entire year. I look forward to it so much. We are so blessed to have my precious parents (and Daddy's) so close so that we can see them so often. I pray you guys, my children, will always cherish your grandparents. They are full of love and so much wisdom they want to pass on to you!!

One of the reasons I love Christmastime is for the precious looks on children's faces. This one is priceless of sweet Koltyn. Have I mentioned I am a bit jealous of his curls???

My precious grandmother, Mema! So thankful she is still able to come down and be with us for ham and pinto beans on Christmas Eve!!

Sisters! Love my Aunt Connie!!

Christmas Eve menu: Turkey (for some reason this year - instead of ham), green beans, fruit salad, sweet potato souffle, and of course PINTO BEANS!!

Nini's first Christmas in the USA and with our family. We are so blessed to have her with us!

Each year Gaga puts you guys into costumes and has you act out the Christmas Story. This year Micah - you are Joseph, Rebekah - you are Mary, McKinney - you are a donkey, Amberleigh is an angel, Braxton and Amelia - shepherds, and Nini - Baby Jesus. Unfortunately, Koltyn missed all the fun since he was napping.

After focusing on the real meaning of Christmas, we celebrated each other by giving gifts. Such fun for you kids and Mommy too!!

Nini was helping Mema "read" the recordable storybook you guys recorded for her for Christmas.

After the excitement of opening gifts there was a knock at the door and a very special visitor arrived. Can you believe it???

Wait - is that Santa??? Seems he is prepared for high waters in those pants, or maybe he is too tall for the costume. Love Santa Frank!!

All kids were mesmerized by Santa. They found Pop to be pretty funny, although Micah - you still think it was the real Santa!! Oh to be three again!

Santa forced himself on Brett.

And Mema.

I love this picture. I will always treasure this memory. My sweet Daddy, aka Santa, with his ten of his eleven grandchildren (only one missing is baby McKinney that will born in June)!!

Christmas Week Trip to Gatlinburg, Tenn.

2011-12-23T21:50:00.009-05:00

Daddy had a great idea on Saturday. He suggested that we go on a pre-Christmas trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee for a few days. You guys were all very excited, and so was I. This meant that my house would stay clean before Christmas!!! I was also excited that we would get to relax together and do some really fun things that we don't normally get to do.

Our first morning there we headed out to the Aquarium. Right inside the door you had your picture made with Santa!!

Here you are touching the horseshoe crabs.

The tunnel of sharks, sting rays, fish, and other sea creatures was a favorite of all of us.

How can you not believe in creation by Creator God when you behold beauty like this? It was truly amazing.

There is a shark swimming right over your heads - look out!!!!!

Talk about close up with a penguin. This was really cool.

After the Aquarium we toured the Titanic Museum. This was very cool, but we weren't permitted to take any pictures inside, so this is all we have of that adventure!!

You are three very brave kids. You guys did something that Mommy will probably never be brave enough to do. You rode the Sky Lift up a very tall mountain. I am so proud of all of you -- I pray you never let fear hold you back from doing what you really want to do.

Going up....

You reached the top. The views looked amazing (from the pictures).

Coming back down...

We had a wonderful view of the Smokey Mountains during lunch.

So after lunch, we went to the Wonder Works Museum. From the looks of this place there must be some pretty cool stuff inside. There was so much to do and see we couldn't get pictures of it all, so below is a sampling of what we did inside this upside down place.

Rock climbing -- After several tries McKinney, you made it all the way to the top. Rebekah, you almost did, but changed your mind at the last minute!!

There were three really cute astronauts at the Wonder Works Museum.

Rebekah - you were the first brave soul to try out the Bed of Nails.

McKinney, you could not wait to lay on the Bed of Nails. I think you are a real super heao

Later this same evening we went to the Christmas Show at the Dixie Stampede. It was wonderful. We couldn't take pictures there, but the show was great and you all enjoyed it very much. Eating with your hands was a little weird for you guys - but the food was good!!

This was an unbelievable trip. You guys had tons of fun and we all were able to enjoy spending quality time together during this busy time of year!!

Farmhouse Christmas Celebration with the McKinney's

2011-12-17T22:11:00.005-05:00

Another great day at the Farmhouse. As always, this has been a highlight of our Christmas season!! This year we did family pictures before opening gifts. Not sure why no one had ever thought of that before. All the kids were GREAT because they were anxious to get to the gift opening!!

The Brewer Family

The McKeehan Family

Margaret & Ed with their precious granddaughters.

The Butler Family (notice new addition, Casey)

Brenda and Mariana were patiently waiting for the "men" in their family. This is a great picture of mom-in-law with her daughter-in-law!!

The Shoemaker Family (notice new addition, Nini)

The Russell Families

Dad with his sisters, Brenda and Margaret, and their cousin, Olin.

Mom & Dad!!

Let the Christmas celebrations begin!!!

Christmas with our BFF's

2011-12-16T22:08:00.001-05:00

So tonight was a super fun night with some of our favorite people. You guys have grown up with the Segraves' family right down the street. We are blessed to have friends and neighbors like this family. What a fun night of celebrating Christmas this was!!

Trimming our Gorgeous Tree

2011-12-05T21:29:00.003-05:00

Well our tree from Thompson's Tree Farm is trimmed and looks great. The kids are in the Christmas spirit, now all we need is to start baking!!!

Tree Time with the Thompson's

2011-12-05T21:07:00.005-05:00

Here it is again. Our annual visit to Thompson's Tree Farm. We love getting our tree from Thompson's. It is more than just a tree farm. The highlight every year is feeding the goats and cows. This year was no different. The picture below is from our very first visit to Thompson's. My how my babies have changed - and we added one since the early days!!

2006

2011

This year we got to see this sweet baby calf. She was exactly one week old the day we were there. I cannot believe how adorable she is. Wish we could have touched her, but there was no way she was getting close enough for that to happen.

This is the baby calf's Mama - cute too!!

Another great year. Thank you Mr. & Mrs. Thompson for providing a beautiful setting for some great family memories!!

Fall At Our House - Beautiful

2011-11-20T20:51:00.000-05:00

Fall at our house this year has been amazing. The colors in the back yard were beautiful and with the treehouse and bridge over the creek it made for a perfect setting for a family picture.

The ground was completely covered with leaves several inches thick. It was so pretty.

Still so proud of my husband for designing and bringing to life this dream treehouse for the kids. I wish I was a kid when I see how much fun they have zip lining off the deck!!

I love that in the midst of beautiful fall colors my knock out rose bushes are still blooming. One of my favorite verses in the Bible is Romans 1:20, "For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and diving nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that man are without excuse." This verse describes perfectly that through creation around us we are able to clearly see God. When I look out and see the beauty of changing leaves and blooming roses I completely understand that a powerful and eternal God created each and every thing I see!!!

Halloween

2011-11-01T20:24:00.001-04:00

The kids LOVE Halloween. It is super fun to be able to dress up and be whatever you want to be. Here are a few pictures of our day.

Micah always looking for a way to be silly and make us laugh - the teeth certainly accomplished that!!

McKinney in the "BOO" glasses.

Micah in the "BOO" glasses.

Ready to head out is a cute little airplane,

a beautiful Twister game,

and the most handsome (and strong) Iron Man on the block!!

Getting very excited now!!

We heard a commotion and realized the Segraves' family was coming across the yard. The kids are practically screaming now!!

Ben is already digging into his candy stash.

Micah loves his trick-or-treating bag. He can't wait for it to get dark so it will light up.

The Crozier and Segraves' families. It is getting a little easier each year to get them all posed for a picture.

The kids on the neighbors "hayride" ready to go.

At the end of the night the kids were checking out all their candy and I had to get a picture of this. Rebekah wanted to sort all of hers... hmmm, I think this qualifies as OCD.

Good bye Mayfield - We Are Going to Miss You!!!

2011-10-28T20:23:00.008-04:00

So, after enjoying the Mayfield Dairy Visitor's Center for the last six years, today was our final visit. The center is closing for economic reasons and I knew we had to make one final trip to our favorite Braselton hot spot. Over the years a trip to Mayfield has been a fun surprise, a reward for good behavior, or a celebration spot for the last day of school. No matter the reason for visiting we have always been served good ice cream and a GREAT time. Thank you Mayfield for the family memories - my family will always be grateful for your influence in our community!

A quick walk down memory lane...

Pop was always eager to meet us here for a sweet treat on a warm summer day.

It is only fitting that Pop and Gaga met us here today for our final ice cream cone. When we started coming a scoop was $0.50, now it is $1.50 for a kids scoop and $2.50 for a regular size single scoop - inflation anyone???

Maggie, the cow, was added last year for the kids to "milk" while inside the shop.

On my last walk through the gift shop I spotted this last book of the Mayfield Family Story. I was so surprised that it was still there - I am certain it must have been looked over and left just for me. Scottie Mayfield was at the shop today and he was so generous to sign the book for me and pose for a picture with the kids. He also went through the book and told me several memorable things about the family. What a great company and, for the record, Scottie doesn't want the Visitor's Center to close, but it isn't his decision since Mayfield sold to Dean Food Company in 1990.

As I was wiping my tears (yes, I know it is crazy, but I got a bit emotional) Scottie Mayfield gave me a big smile and said "we don't want to close either - it is a sad day for us as well."

One last climb on the tree out front.

Mayfield Dairy Visitor's Center - you have given my family some fun times and memories that will last a lifetime. For that I will be forever grateful.

Micah's Halloween Party at School

2011-10-28T19:58:00.005-04:00

Micah - one of the highlights of preschool are the parties!! You were looking so forward to your Halloween party yesterday at school. You suited up in your airplane costume and took off...

I caught you checking yourself out in the mirror. Too funny!

You love the hayride and I was so glad that McKinney got to join in too.

Not sure what is up with your squinty smile lately - but it sure is cute.

Pumpkin picking is another highlight.

So this is what it looks like to try an get 13 or so three year olds to stand still for a picture.

So....My Last Post Needs to be Updated

2011-10-24T16:36:00.006-04:00

Okay, so sometimes the best laid plans don't always go the way we want them to. This morning I went to get the new bunny (we have now had him for two days) out of his cage so McKinney could hold him while I took Rebekah to school. I went out to the cage and Oh My GOODNESS - another dead bunny!!! Yikes!!!! I couldn't believe it. I immediately told the kids, which started a chorus of loud mourning and uncontrollable sobbing. I finally got them calmed down and Rebekah ready, again, to head out the door for school after promises of "exchanging" (not sure if that is the best choice of words to use but for lack of anything else that is what I chose) the bunny today for a new one.

So, I introduce you to Thumpkin's much more lively and healthier sister, Pumpkin!!

Pumpkins Anyone???

2011-10-22T16:54:00.007-04:00

What a beautiful day to visit the pumpkin patch. We had a blast as always. You guys are growing up every year. This year was monumental in that we had no whining, complaining, or bad attitudes when I told you to gather around for a picture!! This actually makes me a little sad because it means you are all growing up :(

I love having a camera that takes pictures quickly. I would never have gotten the next two shots if not for that! I love you sweet Micah, you keep us laughing Joyful Soul.

Rebekah, you were pretty interested in helping me pick the perfect pumpkin this year.

You guys couldn't wait to get to the bunny cage to play with all the baby bunnies.

Picking pumpkins - a novel idea!!

Rebekah and McKinney - you guys weren't interested in riding the pony's this year. You told us that they weren't very fun because you could only go around in a circle. However, Micah was super excited to ride!

The highlight of this year's trip to the Pumpkin Patch was the sweet 6 week old bunny we brought home. Our bunny, Patches, died a few months back, so we took the opportunity to fill her cage with a new baby bunny. Micah, you came up with a cute name for this little guy. So now, Thumpkin is part of our family!

McKinney - Big #7

2011-10-17T20:40:00.011-04:00

McKinney - we had quite a party for you this year. Dad and Grandad worked so hard to get the treehouse built for your party and Mommy and Daddy even had a surprise for you the week before your birthday. Daddy put up a zip line for you!!! This was a hit at the party. Everyone who tried it, loved it!!

Before any guests arrived, Daddy was busy getting set up.

The fire was burning and everyone was fixing their hotdogs.

Aunt Claire and her girls enjoying the fire and the food!

Tearing into the presents always draws a crowd.

Your friend and neighbor, Campbell Turner, enjoying roasting marshmallows.

Ben with an adorable grin - cute little hobo.

I wish I had snapped this picture before any of your friends left, but I forgot. So, we have Zachary, Micah, you, Brady, and Carter. Very cute!

Love you boys - Cute picture of the two best boys ever!!

I can hardly believe Grandad tried the zip line. He said he enjoyed it!

Micah you are so brave - you love "flying" through the air.

Nini bug sure is a cutie!!

McKinney - some of your best buddies, Toby, Drew, and Brady.

Aunt Erin loves the zip line - no surprise there.

Rebekah enjoying the zip line.

Amelia

Pop loving the zip line. Can't wait until Gaga gets better so she can enjoy it too!!

Erin with Nini and Koltyn. What a GREAT picture.

Even Aunt Claire gave it a whirl!

Yumm-O - the cake was a BIG hit. Not much left though :(

Getting ready to blow out the candles on your yummy cookie cake - you were hamming it up.

Sweet, sweet baby boy. It can't possibly have been 7 years since God blessed (and challenged) us with you. We are so thankful He did.

I'm a Rambling Wreck from Georgia Tech!!!

2011-10-08T20:38:00.000-04:00

It is your favorite Saturday in the Fall. Georgia Tech day!! You guys love going to the football game with Daddy. What an awesome time and great memories for you guys!!

Mema's Birthday

2011-09-24T20:33:00.000-04:00

Today we had the privilege of celebrating Mema's 89th birthday. I am so blessed to still have my grandmother. Mema is having trouble remembering people and places, but she is still great at checkers and she still beat all of us at dominos!!

Treehouse Anyone???

2011-09-20T16:34:00.005-04:00

Well this is how it began. A big stack of wood. After a lot of creativity, sweat, and hard work the treehouse is finally finished. You guys will make lots of childhood memories on this stack of wood. Never forget the long hours that Daddy and Grandad put in to make this a reality for you. They love you so much and this is the labor of their love!!

Day 1 - So far so good. Daddy is still smiling and Grandad is hard at work!

McKinney, you were the most excited about the construction of the treehouse. You watched in curiosity and wanted to help at every step of the way... until you got bored!!

They look pretty tired. They put in about 10 hours on several different Saturdays. I don't know what the final tally was on time spent. But it was A LOT!!

This was roofing day. There were storms coming so they were very determined to get the shingles on. They accomplished that in one day!! Great job!!

At this point you guys can really see the treehouse starting to take form. You want to play in it, but it isn't quite safe enough yet. Soon, very soon it will be complete!!

We are getting very close now. Walls are up, roof is done, doors are built. Not long now!

Daddy with his little buddy!

The finished product....

It looks so good. McKinney, in a few weeks we will celebrate the "grand opening" of the treehouse at your birthday party. What a fun gathering place this will be. I can't wait to see you guys with your friends using your imaginations and enjoying being out in God's creation.

McKinney is a Cub Scout

2011-09-10T17:07:00.000-04:00

McKinney, your first cub scout event that we attended was Snake Day. You loved this. It was so cool for you to see the snakes that you have read about in books. Not sure I liked it too much though - yikes!!

That is one cute cub scout!!

Micah's First Day of Preschool

2011-09-06T17:02:00.000-04:00

Micah, you started 3 year old preschool today. Last year you had the best preschool teachers and we are hoping for another great year and great teachers. I know you will love going to school just like Rebekah and McKinney did. You are growing up so fast. You promised me you wouldn't grow up - but you have since changed your mind! I love you joyful soul!!

Getting in the front seat during carpool line is always a treat - especially with McKinney with you this year!!

Almost your turn to get out.

You were knocking on the window. I guess you wanted to make sure they didn't forget you!

You had a great first day and are excited about many more fun days ahead!

Destin with Gran and Grandad

2011-08-30T20:00:00.000-04:00

Gran and Grandad invited us to join them in Destin, Florida for a long weekend. We had a great time. The water was super clear. You guys had a blast searching for sea creatures in the water. McKinney, you even spotted a large sea turtle that you swam behind for a few minutes. You could even see that it was carrying fish on its back. We caught fish and crabs too. What a fun trip this was. Hopefully we can go back next summer!!

Back to School 2011

2011-08-10T09:33:00.000-04:00

First day of school at our house brings excitement and anxiousness as well. All smiles this morning as we are getting ready to load up and head out!!

Rebekah is starting 4th grade and is in Mrs. Bryant's class.

McKinney is starting 1st grade and started the year out in Mrs. Thompson's class. After a week of prayer and wrestling with the Lord, I finally had to admit that He wanted me to home school you. So, you only attended WJPS for nine days. After that we started homeschooling!!

Crazy in the car

Dropping you off I wasn't sure if I would be able to get a picture this year. But, you allowed me to outside the classroom and I had to do it VERY quickly!!

Growing up - I can't believe you are in 1st grade. I am excited to start homeschooling you so that I can spend more quality time with my precious middle child!!

Summer Activities - Hodge Podge

2011-08-01T20:05:00.002-04:00

Every summer there are a few activities that we try to squeeze into our busy schedule. Here are some pictures from some of your favorites.

Camping in the backyard is always a fan favorite. Mommy sleeps inside and you guys get Daddy all to yourself!!

You both worked really hard this year to earn your Six Flags ticket for reading. You enjoyed a fun evening with Daddy!

Another favorite has become the Splash Zone. You guys love the water slides and the diving boards. Micah loves it too. What a fun way to keep cool on these 98 degree days!

Rebekah, a special treat this year for you was getting to take Rachel Sapecky to American Girl for the first time. She had never been and you wanted to be the one to take her. We enjoyed lunch and shopping. It was a fun outing for the girls!!

Back to School Big Canoe Bash

2011-08-01T13:48:00.000-04:00

If I asked, you guys would say your favorite thing we do all summer is our trip to Big Canoe. There is nothing much to do there that doesn't involve spending time together and that is why Mommy & Daddy love going too!! One of your favorite things to do is hike to the Lower Falls. We always have to get a picture on the big rock.

For some reason you guys think it is so funny to take things and hide them from Pop. The item of choice this trip was a book he was reading. The funniest part is that the book was called G.R.I.T.S: Girls Raised in the South. He was so into this book the entire week he could hardly put it down. He was close to finishing and you guys wouldn't leave him alone, so he finally locked himself in the car so he could finish.

Gaga was playing on your team this time and got the remote to unlock the car from inside the house.

Boy did you guys think this was funny. Gaga was pretty proud of herself as well!!

So, riding a paddle boat in 95+ degree weather isn't exactly my idea of fun, but you guys love it so we sacrifice for a family memory building activity! Love you guys!!

Waiting out the storm in the pavilion - it got a little cold!

Rebekah, you got some special Daddy love after the boys went to bed. You love hanging with the adults!

Boys enjoying a popsicle before bed.

An evening of fishing is always in order.

Micah being cute and very sure of yourself. You aren't concerned a bit that you are wearing pink sunglasses.

McKinney, you got a very special treat this year. Since you are getting older Daddy and Pop took you to the river to fish very early one morning. The fish weren't biting, but you didn't mind. You just enjoyed some one on two time with Daddy and Pop.

You all love to buried in the sand!!

Jumping off the dock is always great fun.

Micah - you loved pretending to be the "crab creature". We aren't really sure what or who that is, but you enjoyed pretending!

Hands down, everyone's favorite activity is the infamous rock slide. Here I am going down with Micah. He wouldn't go by himself, but enjoyed going down with someone else.

McKinney's turn...

Rebekah's turn...

Daddy and Micah...

Mommy's turn...

Rebekah again...

McKinney doing "tricks"...

Daddy's turn...

A GREAT time was had by all!!!!

McKinney Goes to County

2011-07-17T20:28:00.000-04:00

McKinney, Daddy and I couldn't be more proud of you. You are a wonderful swimmer and that is how you earned a trip to the county championship this year. You placed 24th in the entire county in the 25 freestyle for your age group. So, we got up very early and headed down to the best college swim arena anywhere (GT) to watch you compete for your team!!

It was early, but you were excited!!

Here you are with the coaches listening to Coach Rick give you instructions before warming up.
You were a little nervous about getting in the water because Rebekah told you it was very cold, but you were still excited.

First time in...

Practicing breast stroke - nice form buddy!!

Taking a little break.

Finally finished warming up and you are ready and anxious to swim your heat.

We couldn't be on the pool deck during the actual event, but we snapped this picture from our seats as you were heading to the block for you turn.

And the results.....

4th in the overall heat and you beat your time setting a new personal record for yourself. We are so proud of you and can't wait to see how much you improve next year.

McKinney Family Gathering

2011-07-16T20:13:00.001-04:00

This year the McKinney pool gathering was a little smaller. The Shoemaker's weren't here and neither were any of the Russell family. We were also missing Todd who was in Canada on a mission trip. However, we still had a ton of fun. I captured some great pictures of "The Great Hat Game" that you guys LOVE to play with Pop. Attempting to take his hat and keep it away from him keeps you guys busy for hours and wears Pop completely out!!!

I love this picture. Pop brought two hats today and he finally gave up and let McKinney and Braxton taste success. Too cute!!

Emma and Hollie were enjoying being pushed on the boogie boards.

McKinney - not sure why you find this to be so much fun, but you literally ride that tricycle around the pool for hours. It is so fun for you.

Sweet - I pray you girl cousins will always stick together. So far you are outnumbered by the boys!!

I love this picture of Amy with her girls and her niece.

Amy and Legare

Micah taking off down the slide.

Hollie - sweet.

McKinney and Emma - super sweet! And notice that McKinney has deer sausage in his hand. You pretty much always have deer sausage in your hand when you can get your hands on it! Love that!

Our Little Lake Accident

2011-07-12T18:32:00.004-04:00

At the lake on Saturday (July 2nd) everyone was having a wonderful time. Daddy was tubing with you kids and all was enjoying a fun day. Until.....While adjusting on the tube Daddy bounced right on top of Rebekah's hand. Rebekah - your thumb immediately swelled up and you were in a lot of pain. So, we left the lake and headed home. After a quick visit to Urgent Care I have now experienced a broken bone on one of my children for the first time. You got your cast on Friday (July 8th) and you are doing great!!

Fourth of July Weekend

2011-07-06T17:42:00.001-04:00

What a wonderful thing holiday's are for our family. There are always fun things to look forward to. This year we went to the lake for a few days before the 4th holiday. On Friday Lake Keowee was practically empty, so we enjoyed hanging out and swimming in the middle of the lake for a hour of more. You guys loved this. There were no boundaries - you could swim as far as your arms and legs could carry you, and you did!!

Although - not too big on tubing yourself Micah, you sure enjoyed watching Daddy, Rebekah and McKinney.

Mr. Lance let Micah drive the boat some too - we weren't sure where we were going to end up :)

Rebekah and McKinney - you both enjoyed knee boarding. I am not sure why I don't have a picture of you, McKinney - but here is a shot of Rebekah on her first try!!

After a long, fun day at the lake we went back to the house to get dinner ready. Mr. T (Carrie's Dad) entertained you three by taking you down to the water to fish. And we were all surprised when McKinney said "I think I have one". Next thing we knew, you were reeling in a large, pregnant catfish. McKinney, you were so surprised and proud of yourself - I was too!!

We came home from the lake on Saturday evening - after a small snafu in our plans (more on that in the next blog post). On Sunday we went to see fireworks with Pop.

On Monday morning we went into town for the Braselton Parade. It was short - which was good since it was sweltering outside!!

I love this picture. McKinney, you were showing the guys from Anytime Fitness your muscles and he looks pretty impressed!!

We enjoyed more fireworks on Monday night with the Segraves and the Elkins. It was a full weekend, but we enjoyed all the festivities that came along with the holiday.

Lake Day

2011-06-26T17:36:00.001-04:00

Carrie and Lance invited us up for a lake day a few weekends ago. Rebekah couldn't go - but the rest of us had a wonderful, relaxing day!

Here we are getting ready to tube. Everyone enjoyed it - except Micah who was ready to get back in the boat.

Father's Day

2011-06-16T17:33:00.000-04:00

Father's Day is always special at our house. You kids are so blessed to have a father that loves me, loves you, and more importantly loves the Lord. On Saturday night you had the idea to make a poster for Daddy for Father's Day. He was so surprised and loved the special surprise.

Rebekah Goes to Camp

2011-06-15T19:54:00.000-04:00

So the day has finally arrived for me to drop my first born off a summer camp. Rebekah - you were so excited about going to Camp Highland for a week by yourself. There were so many things you were looking forward to. You took no time getting settled in to your cabin and you even got a top bunk!!

You didn't waste a single second at camp. They kept you busy the entire week. One of your favorite activities was the mammoth zip line. You told us that you got stuck in the middle because you didn't weigh enough to take you to the end. So - your camp counselor had to come and slide you the rest of the way. You thought it was fun and I am so proud of how brave you are!!

The one activity that you were looking forward to the most was horseback riding. You got to spend the entire day riding your horse, Cowboy, through the trails in the mountains. You loved each and every minute of it.

These are your cabin mates for the week and your two counselors.

Here you are with your best friend from camp, Mary.

Pick up day - I was so happy to see you. The first thing you said to me was that you didn't want to leave. I am so glad that you are well adjusted, however it was a little sad that you didn't miss me at all!!!

Memorial Day

2011-05-31T19:38:00.000-04:00

What a wonderful day this Memorial Day was. We are so blessed to live in a country that still values freedom and honors those who serve valiantly to protect it at all costs. I pray you children will always treasure our freedom in America and do your part to ensure that your children and grand children have the same (if not better) freedoms than we have. Since Pop is a veteran in the Army, he was able to participate in the Memorial Day Parade in Dacula. You guys got to be a part of that by riding with him and throwing candy. It was a beautiful sight to behold!!

All but three of the grandchildren rode with Pop. Brett is apparently too old and too cool to ride this year and Nini and Koltyn are too little - maybe next year!

Summer Break - BEACH!!

2011-05-29T18:58:00.000-04:00

As soon as the last bell rung you kids were ready to become beach bums. And that is what we did. We went to North Myrtle Beach for vacation this year. We all had a blast. It was nice just being the five of us for the first time ever. We weren't on any schedule and we just relaxed and enjoyed the family time together. What a great start to our summer break!!

This year we tried our hands at putt-putt. Micah, you were especially cute - this is how you usually ended up getting your ball in the hole!

Growing up I always remember going to Dockside restaurant in Calabash, NC to eat. I love taking you guys here as well. You seem to love it as much as I did as a child.

The beautiful old tree out front brings back such memories for me. I remember climbing this tree when I was a little girl.

You guys were mesmerized with the "clams" on the ground under the dock. Too cute!!

Rebekah, one of McKinney's favorite things is to try an kiss you. You will never understand how it makes his day when you let him sneak one by you!!

Another fun vacation tradition is letting you pick out air brush t-shirts from a t-shirt vendor in Myrtle Beach. You guys love this and enjoy your shirts all year long!

Rebekah - MVP Year 4

2011-05-20T20:47:00.001-04:00

Rebekah - Where should I begin??? Awards day is always exciting for you. You work very hard all year and are very motivated in every area of school. So when Awards Day rolls around you get excited to see how you have done. This year was no different. You received almost every award you could possibly receive ( with the exception of the Citizenship Award I think). You also received two very special awards this year (more on that below).

It is my earnest prayer that you will always acknowledge that your gifts and motivation come from the Lord and that anything you are blessed to succeed in is only because the Lord has given you the ability!

Here you are accepting the Healthy Fitness Zone Award.

This was you accepting the Awesome Attendance Award.

This was you accepting the Exceeds in All Areas of the Standards Based Report Card. This was only accomplished by a handful of students because you had to exceed in all areas all year long - a very had feat and one you worked very hard to achieve.

Here you are receiving the Exceeds in all Areas of the CRCT. This was also a difficult task that very few students accomplished.

You also received the award for winning the Young Georgia Authors' Writing Competition for the third grade.
The next award you were presented is pretty amazing to me. This makes the fourth year in a row (every year you have been in school) that you have received the Principal's Award for your class. This is a special award given to only one student in each class. It shows your true ability and character that you have not won this award once, but four times. Below is what was read about you when receiving the award:

The Principal's Award for Ms. Smith's class goes to a student who always puts forth the extra effort. This student is always determined to do their very best at everything they do with a big smile and positive attitude. This student is an excellent role model and always a good friend to others. We can always rely on this student to help a friend out that needs any extra assistance. This student always exhibits honesty, compassion, consideration, and determination. This is why the Principal's Award for Ms. Smith's class goes to Rebekah Crozier!!

You were super excited to keep your MVP streak alive!!

The final award you received was for the top AR points, not just for your class and not just the third grade, but for the ENTIRE school!!! You finished the year with 725 AR points!!! When they were announcing you as the winner the librarian said they had never in the school's history had a third grader take the top prize for AR. This is a huge accomplishment and one you should be proud of. You read a lot and challenged yourself with difficult books so that you could earn even more points. I could not be happier that you have a love for reading and learning just like your Mama!!

Here you are with your two medals and your AR trophy! So proud of you and thankful that you immediately acknowledged how God has blessed you to be able to accomplish all of this!

McKinney Exceeds at Awards Day

2011-05-18T20:38:00.001-04:00

McKinney - what a year you have had. You have learned to read really well, you have learned to count money and to write in complete sentences with punctuation. You have also learned how to be a kind, sweet and helpful friend to your teachers and your classmates. I am so proud of all you have accomplished this year. At awards day you received the Excels in Reading Award, Excels in Writing Award, PE Award, Excels in Math Award, AR Award, and the Kindergarten Completion Award. You worked very hard this year and you have come so far. I can not wait to see what God has in store for you next year in second grade.

The last day of school picture with you sweet and patient teachers, Mrs. Johnston and Mrs. Roberts!

Micah's Playball Awards

2011-05-17T20:34:00.000-04:00

Micah - today you completed your first semester of PlayBall. You have loved going on Tuesday afternoons and having fun with Coach Laura. You loved playing popcorn with the balls and riding on the train. What a fun activity you have gotten to enjoy!!

Micah's First Last Day of School

2011-05-17T20:15:00.000-04:00

Well my Joyful Soul - you have finished your first year of preschool. I could not have asked for more genuine, compassionate teachers than Mrs. Michelle and Mrs. Mika. You had a wonderful year and we are going to miss these ladies. I did pretty good at your party and only got emotional once when they gave you the Loving Heart Award. You are always telling your teachers how much you love them and I agree you certainly deserve that award. I love you Joyful Soul.

Mrs. Michelle had to get one last hug before we left for the summer.

Reading Celebration and Sock Hop

2011-05-16T19:57:00.001-04:00

McKinney, today was your first Sock Hop at WJPS to celebrate reading. You had a great time. Your sweet friend, Randi, kept coming up and grabbing your hand to dance with you. She is so sweet and you guys have become good friends. It was a fun dance and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing you "cut a rug".

Okay - so Randi is doing most of the dancing, but you don't look like you mind!

Cuties!!

Here you are doing the twist with the best kindergarten teacher ever, Mrs. Johnston.

Happy!!!

2011-05-11T18:52:00.000-04:00

McKinney, this picture makes me truly happy. One evening we were coming home from somewhere and I looked back to find you reading a book!! You have been doing awesome with your reading and you are finally starting to enjoy it! I love seeing you read because I know that good readers make great learners. Keep up the good work Buster!

Rebekah Field Day

2011-05-10T18:46:00.000-04:00

I loved being at your Field Day this year for the morning session and lunch. I had t leave in the afternoon, so I missed all the fun water games, but the indoor portion was great. Your team did awesome. Even when some other classes were cheating, you guys continued to play with integrity. That is so much more important and I am proud of you!!

You best bud, Rachel Sapecky.

Trying to pop the balloon proved a little more difficult with your "tiny hiney", but it eventually did pop!

Field Day - McKinney

2011-05-09T18:36:00.000-04:00

McKinney, I was so excited to get to participate with you in your very first Field Day. Your class did great!! You had awesome sportsmanship and cheered for your classmates. You are a great competitor and so sweet to let Micah join in each and every event!

Baby Girl is 9 - WOW!!

2011-05-08T15:21:00.000-04:00

Rebekah you are officially a"tween". You love it when we call you "tweenie". You are growing into a beautiful young lady and we are so proud of you!!

I scored a GREAT bargain on an expired American Girl doll and have been holding it since last Fall. So I was especially excited to give you Kirsten for your birthday. You were so shocked and excited. I love a great surprise.

Your brothers and the Segraves girls were so excited for you too!

We had another awesome pool party for your birthday. Here is a great picture of most of your party guests - we are missing a few of your friends that had already left :(

Gorgeous cake - thank you Mrs. Mandy!!

The best surprise was inside the cake. Rebekah, you loved the rainbow!!

Limbo was a BIG hit this year.

Micah and Mia - cute cousins.

Party fun!

Easter Morning - He Has Risen

2011-04-24T21:05:00.000-04:00

"But on the first day of the week at early dawn, they came to the tomb, bringing the spices which they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. Then one of the men said to them, why do you seek the living One among the dead? He is not here, but He has risen." Luke 24: 1-3 & 5b-6.

It gives Mommy "no greater joy than to know that my children are walking in the truth" 3 John 4. My prayer for all three of you, my children, is that you will discover the wonderful mystery of the living, breathing, active Word of God and that you will apply it to your lives and use it as the primary source of counsel throughout your lives. Without the truth of the resurrection, we have no basis for hope, however because of the resurrection we have nothing but hope. How blessed we are that we live in a country where we are free to celebrate the empty tomb and worship Jesus Christ in a public way today!!

Here are a few pictures of our Easter morning.

Holy cow - when did she turn in to a beautiful young lady? I know just yesterday she was a toddler!

Handsome dude and funny too!

Joyful soul, always talking and singing - full of personality!

Easter baskets...

McKinney, you informed me this year that the Easter Bunny isn't a real giant bunny that comes to our house, but you think it is a person dressed up - hmmmm....

Super excited about getting two packs of monkey silly bands - you have been asking for these for a long time.

The Easter bunny even surprised Rebekah. She thought Felicity's Holiday gown was sold out for good - but the bunny found it!!

Family Pictures with the Crozier's

2011-04-23T21:30:00.000-04:00

Today was a beautiful day to have family pictures made with the Crozier's. For Christmas we gave Mrs. Crozier a photo shoot with Tammy Maglovsky and she couldn't have been happier. The photos turned out gorgeous. I am so blessed to have a mother-in-law and father-in-law that love my husband, love me and most of all shower you sweet children with tons of love and wisdom!

Egg Decorating

2011-04-22T22:30:00.001-04:00

You guys had a super fun time coloring your Easter eggs this year. Your creativity is great and you really enjoy doing something "crafty". Some of my favorite memories as a child are of holiday traditions and coloring eggs is certainly one of my favorites. I hope you guys will have equally sweet memories of this Easter tradition!

Gifts From China

2011-04-22T13:01:00.000-04:00

Of course, Pop & Gaga brought you guys some cool gifts from China. You guys loved the hats and swords.

Rebekah, you loved the beautiful fan and purse.

Nini is Home

2011-04-21T20:39:00.002-04:00

Well little Miss Nini, after a very long two weeks we finally got to meet you tonight! We were so excited to see you come off the escalator in your Daddy's arms. I am sure we all overwhelmed you, but you were a good sport. We love you little one and are so glad you are part of our family!

First time big sister Amelia got to hold here baby sister!!

After we left the airport we all went with Nini on her first real Atlanta experience - The Varsity!!

Here is a great video of our first glimpses of Nini as she got off the escalator. It was so exciting!!

They Have Nini!!

2011-04-10T21:09:00.000-04:00

Today Bobby & Claire got to hold their new baby girl for the first time. After over four years of praying, waiting, more praying and more waiting they finally got their precious Nini. This is one of the first pictures they emailed to us. I was drinking her in and trying so hard to imagine what they all must be feeling. We are so anxious to meet her and to get to know this sweet, valued child of God. What a blessing she is to our entire family!

This picture was literally the first day they got her. She was already smiling despite the transition and probably scary circumstances. What a joy!

The famous "red couch" photo at the White Swan hotel on the last leg of the trip.

Squeaky shoes - she loves them!

Spring Break Safari

2011-04-06T17:36:00.000-04:00

While in Virginia over Spring Break we went to a really cool animal safari park. The animals came right up to your car and stuck their heads in our windows trying to get food. At first we were all a little taken aback by how aggressive they were, but we soon got used to it - and you kids had a blast feeding all the animals. What a memorable trip!

The ostrich was probably the craziest of all the animals. It would come up and peck at the bucket very hard and then run away with a mouth full of food. Strange creature for sure.

This picture is for Pop. Not too hard to spot an elk here! Hee Hee!!

The camels were pretty crazy too. There was a sign up that said they would eat the food and the bucket. They weren't lying - those crazy camels took the bucket right our of my hand and chewed it up. One of them then picked up an empty bucket off the ground and tried to hand it back to us.

These were spider monkey's. Rebekah you were especially interested in these guys.

They would use their tails to reach grass that was way outside of their cage and pull it back in to eat it. I suppose even monkey's think the grass is greener on the other side of the fence - LOL!

McKinney, you were only concerned about two animals. The tigers and the cheetahs. This is the first of your favorites.

Happy boy!

The very last habitat we came to was what McKinney had been waiting for all day long. You love the cheetahs buddy. You think it is cool that they are the fastest land animal and you want to be as fast as they are.

After leaving the safari park, we stopped at this beautiful spot on the side of the road. We followed the James River the entire drive to the safari park and it was absolutely beautiful.

Spring Break Lynchburg, VA

2011-04-05T18:54:00.000-04:00

Over Spring Break this year we were able to go visit Uncle David and Aunt Rachel in Virginia. We all had a wonderful time. On Saturday morning we had a special treat - at Uncle David & Aunt Rachel's house they had a lot of college girls over for breakfast. One of the girls had this little dog and you two boys really liked him! I think the dog liked you too!!

On Sunday afternoon Daddy took the three of you up to the Monogram. This is a huge LU made out of rocks on the side of a mountain very close to Liberty University's campus. Ya'll had a great time climbing on the rocks and exploring the scenery. Where was Mommy you might want to know???? Well it was Sunday, so of course I was getting my Sunday afternoon nap!!

Beautiful view of a beautiful campus!

Micah, you were getting pretty tired at this point and were looking for anywhere to lay your little head!

Rebekah, you have become quite the camera hog - you are a beautiful girl and the camera loves you!!

McKinney, you are always looking for a tree to climb and this was good enough for you!

After you guys left the Monogram you went to Snow Flecks - the artificial ski slope on LU's Campus. There was a giant chess board that you guys thought was pretty cool!

Let's Play Ball

2011-03-30T16:15:00.001-04:00

McKinney, you are six years old and we have finally been able to talk you into playing ball. You are playing t-ball this spring and are pretty excited about it. You are the oldest kid on the team and one of the biggest. I think you are Coach Butch's star player!! Here you are suited up for your first game. Unfortunately it was rained out, but we will play eventually.

Micah my Three Year Old

2011-03-21T15:52:00.000-04:00

Well Mr. Micah - you are finally three. It has passed way too quickly for Mommy, but very slowly for you. For the last several weeks you have been asking when your birthday is and if you were three yet. I have enjoyed every second of your three years & I look forward to all that God has in store for you in the future!

On Thursday I came to your school and brought cup cakes to your class. You loved having me there and being the center of attention for a few minutes!

Mrs. Michelle and your friends were singing to you and it was very sweet!

At your party, you and your good buddy, Emerson Ryan, enjoyed hanging out together.

Roasting marshmallows was a huge hit as well.

Rebekah & Lauren seem quite glad you had a birthday party so they could spend time together.

You were so cute singing Happy Birthday to yourself with all the other children!!

McKinney and Zachary were having a great time also.

What in the World is That????

2011-02-25T20:32:00.001-05:00

McKinney - today you came home from school and this is what I found all over your body. We quickly got in the car to pay a visit to Dr. Hogan. Thankfully it was just a virus and you were fine. I just thought you would think these pictures are pretty cool in the blog book someday!

Father Daughter Dance

2011-02-13T15:27:00.000-05:00

What a beautiful young lady, Miss Rebekah Abigail Crozier - and your date isn't bad himself. You are so blessed to have a Daddy that loves you and loves taking you out on special dates like the Daddy/Daughter Dance. I pray that you will find a man as special as your Daddy someday.

I love this picture because there is a little 2 year old peeking out the window. Too precious!

You danced the night away with good friends Valerie & Lauren Segraves.

Eligible Bachelor

2011-02-10T20:30:00.000-05:00

Micah - even with a foul look on your face you are a cutie!! This was the day of your Valentine Party at school and you looked so adorable!!

Handsome Guys

2011-02-01T20:28:00.000-05:00

Micah - you have two awesome preschool teachers this year. They have you do a project each month and this month you had to send in a picture of you with your Daddy. This is one that Daddy took with the timer on the camera one Sunday afternoon. I think it turned out just perfect!!

McKinney's Sight Word Success

2011-01-27T20:21:00.000-05:00

McKinney - you are doing so great learning your sight words. Many days you really do NOT want to practice them, but you always do. That determination has paid off because you are learning them so quickly. You are a smart boy and one of the best readers in your class. I love you!!

Snow Jam 2011

2011-01-15T18:42:00.001-05:00

Wow - what can I say that hasn't already been said? The snow was amazing. We had so much fun being home with no where to go. We enjoyed relaxing days by the fire and meals together 3 times a day. This gave me a true glimpse of the simple life where hectic schedules don't dominate our every hour. I truly believe this snow was a blessing from the Lord to allow us the opportunity to spend real quality time together as a family. I would love another week!!

Our neighbor, Mr. Beaver, took the boys on a ride. Here is McKinney ready to go!

Micah waiting for his turn.

Rebekah loving the snow almost up to her knees.

McKinney posing for the camera.

Micah taking his ride with Mr. Beaver.

Micah and Mommy enjoying the snow.

Over Christmas Robbie built an awesome bridge over our creek. It was the perfect spot for snow pictures!

We decided to enjoy the hot tub during snow week. This was super fun. The kids loved it and didn't want to get out. It was a neat treat for all of us!

Micah doing snow angels.

Our snowman with Rebekah's shirt on - for a contest for her orthodontist.

And this is the picture we submitted for the contest - thanks Uncle David for altering it a bit for us.

A little down time. Watching our new movies was a fun treat.

Robbie and I snuck away for a few minutes and used the handy timer on the camera for a rare picture of ourselves.

Sledding fun.

I love this picture - Micah is wearing a GT hat, sunglasses, a home depot apron, GT football pants, snow boots and a coat. Too cute!!

On Saturday (day 6 of the snow) Robbie and the kids built another snowman in the front yard. This one was a bit turned around! Hee Hee...

The Best Christmas Present EVER!!

2010-12-28T16:50:00.002-05:00

My sister, Claire, and her husband, Bobby, have been waiting 3 years to adopt a baby girl from China. On Christmas Eve she said we have a present that Mom and Dad need to open before we eat lunch. We were all sitting around not thinking much about it until I saw my Mom pull a card out of a box that said in big letter, "Your Newest Grandchild". Inside the card was a picture of this precious child that will soon be part of our family. They got their referral on Tuesday (a complete surprise) and kept it a secret until Christmas Eve. This is such a blessing after the long wait. Please begin praying now for their trip to China to get her. They will be travelling either the end of March or first of April. She is in a foster home and is very attached to her foster Mother. Please pray that she will attach quickly to my sister and brother-in-law. Her name will be Nini Olivia Shoemaker!!

Christmas 2010 & It's White!!!

2010-12-28T11:05:00.007-05:00

Once again we have been so blessed this year. I pray that my children will always acknowledge that everything we have comes from God and that it is only by His grace that we are afforded such a blessed life. We try to focus on Christ at Christmas. Part of the wonder of Christmas is the amazing gift that God gave to us. That is why we give gifts to each other during this season. Our children love to receive gifts, however they are also learning the joy of watching someone open a gift that they have selected for that special person. I love to blog what the children receive from Santa so that someday they will enjoy the memories of Christmas as they look back through the blog book. Santa brings each child three gifts, just as Jesus was given three gifts from the Magi that visited him as a young child. Another small way to tie in Christ amongst the gift giving.

This year Rebekah received Felicity (American Girl Doll), a guitar, and a cool new camera. She desperately wishes Aunt Rachel and Uncle David lived closer so they could teach her how to play her new guitar. Looks like lessons in her future!

McKinney received a trampoline, a spy watch (which he made clear he was going to use to spy on Rebekah), and also a guitar.
Micah received Big Foot, a scooter, and Misty Island Adventure Thomas the Train toy.

Each year Santa leaves new slippers outside the rooms where the kids are sleeping. Since Rebekah and McKinney sleep together on Christmas Eve, their slippers are always together.

And here are Micah's The stockings were hung by the chimney with care - and there are two extra this year. Pop and Gaga spent the night with us - a special treat!

When we went in to get the kids up, McKinney said, "was I on the nice list??" Too funny that his confidence had wavered even though we don't really focus on the idea that you have to be good for Santa to come. The kids were super excited!!

McKinney loves his spy watch.

Rebekah with her new camera.

The boys got cap guns in their stockings. They love them - and I think Daddy and Pop did too!

After we finished opening all the gifts Robbie told the kids that we had a special present for them this year. Here is the video.

They were so surprised and love her so much!!

I love that we don't have to go anywhere on Christmas day. While Micah was napping McKinney and I enjoyed some time cuddling by the fire and reading Christmas books. This is so special to me!!

Later in the afternoon Robbie's family came over. They kids received more gifts, again - we are so blessed!

A jam session with the new guitars.

Not long after our Christmas dinner, the family left because it was starting to SNOW pretty good. Every year my sweet husband teases me and says it is going to snow on Christmas. Each year I laugh and say, "it doesn't snow here on Christmas." Well this year he started telling me a week before Christmas that it looked like it really was going to snow. I was my usual realistic self and brushed him off. This time he was right!!! I am so happy for Robbie. This is really like a dream come true for him! It made for a perfect Christmas this year!!! We all had a blast enjoying the first White Christmas in metro Atlanta since 1882! Pretty historic and loads of FUN!!

He was so happy!!!

What a wonderful Christmas and some great memories that we will have forever! Thank you Lord for your amazing grace on our lives!

Christmas Eve 2010

2010-12-24T20:15:00.007-05:00

Today we enjoyed another wonderful Christmas Eve at my parent's house. We spend the entire day there eating, opening gifts, reading the Christmas story, eating....

This year Brett read the Christmas story while the others played the parts. Micah wanted to be Joseph - here he is making his entrance. You can see Caleb in the floor - he was the cow. That was about all we could talk him into doing this year.

McKinney was the donkey and Amberleigh was Mary - they were cute!!
The whole crew - Braxton is a shepherd and Rebekah is the angel. Amelia (6 yrs. old) is baby Jesus - who says it has to make sense???

Micah loved being Joseph. He didn't take the costume off all afternoon until he opened his Buzz Lightyear wings.

This year was the 2nd Annual McKinney Family Christmas Eve Silly String Fight - so much fun for all - well, except Micah who was scared of the silly string for some reason. That obviously didn't stop Robbie from continuing to defend himself! Hee Hee!!

Aunt Claire finally rescued Micah and took him to "safety" on the front porch. What a cute, oops, I mean pitiful face!

And then present time. I love watching children open gifts.

I really love capturing great reactions to gifts. Notice Rebekah's face when she realizes Pop & Gaga gave her the American Girl horse, Penny.

Speaking of great reactions - Mom opening her Kindle which she thought she wasn't getting. Surprise!!!

Micah's favorite gift - his Buzz Lightyear wings. Too cute.

Once we get home the kids get new pajamas for Christmas. They don't necessarily like that I make them pose for pictures, but they do it - someday they will understand.

Can't forget to feed the reindeer!!

Milk and cookies anyone???

Looking for Santa up the chimney. Now that is sweet!

I thought I would throw this in for the sake of my blog book that I will print. McKinney's letter to Santa that he wrote in school was printed in the newspaper this week.

Watching one last Christmas movie before we head to bed. We call Micah our little Joyful Soul because he is always so joyful - seems like he is a little bundle of joy to the very core of who he is. That is the best way to describe my sweet little third born.

And the final reading of Twas The Night Before Christmas for the season. More to come tomorrow I am sure!

Overall I want to take a minute and reflect on today. Robbie and I are literally giddy to spend the entire day today with my family and then with his tomorrow. We can't think of a better earthly blessing that God could have bestowed upon us than our families. Sometimes I wonder what I did to deserve this and I am quickly reminded that I deserve NONE of this. The only thing any of us deserve is hell, but for Christ that is what we receive. However, God had a better plan. He choose to give us a perfect substitute. A baby, both fully God and fully man, sent to earth to redeem us. WOW! That is the miracle of Christmas and that is certainly something for us to celebrate during Christmas. Praise God for his plan for which I am most unworthy! MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

2010 McKinney Family Farmhouse Christmas

2010-12-22T22:01:00.004-05:00

Have I mentioned how much our family LOVES going to Abbeville to the Farmhouse for Christmas? Well we do!! We have such a wonderful time seeing all the cousins, Aunts, Uncles, etc. This is a highlight for us every year and this year was no different. Everyone was here this year (no one snowed in - yea!) except David and Rachel who are in Massachusetts for Christmas. Robbie counted 32 in the Farmhouse and because of the rain and cold, there was very little playing outside - so we had a lot of indoor fun!!

Rebekah couldn't have been happier when she opened the Password Journal that she has been asking for - one happy girl!

Micah loved his pop-up Hot Wheels Diego toy. Perfect toy for a 2 year old boy!

The adults doing our "white elephant" gift swap - always fun!!

The Butler Family

The Russell Family

My Dad, his two sisters, and their cousin Olin.

My cousin Amy and her daughter, Legare.

And, the McKinney family. Not sure what is going on with my hair, or with most of us in this picture. Not the best, but will be funny in a few years!

Missing David and my hair is still crazy!

Love that Mariana is entertaining all the kids.

Gift Exchange with the Segraves

2010-12-17T21:52:00.000-05:00

We are so blessed to have the Segraves family right up the street. You kids are growing up together right before our very eyes. I love looking back each year to see how you all have changed. We had a fun afternoon of exchanging gifts and enjoying playing together before the
"Christmas craziness" begins.

Opening gifts.

Micah got some cute Grinch pj's and he couldn't wait to put them on!

I love the "mischievous" look on Ben's face. Finally, a boy for Mrs. Paula!!

And... thank you to Lauren for taking this picture. I couldn't have asked God for a better friend in Paula - He must have known I would need her more than she will ever know!

McKinney's Visit from Santa

2010-12-16T21:39:00.001-05:00

The kids were so excited about their visit from Santa during the Christmas Party. What fun!!

McKinney and his best pal, Drew.

McKinney - Santa came to visit and you greeted him and very quickly told him, "I have been very good this year". I love that -you have confidence in your behavior. Even if you haven't had the best day, you quickly get over it and move on to better things. I love this about you!

Then Santa went into a long explanation about why you need to get to bed early on Christmas Eve. I thought this was really cute.

Micah the Reindeer

2010-12-15T21:36:00.000-05:00

Today, my little Joyful Soul, you had your first program at Celebration Academy. Your class sang three songs and recited a Bible verse. You looked so cute, however you didn't say a single word. We got a video, but since you didn't sing - I didn't take the time to upload it to the blog. So, here are some pictures I took at home before we left for the program.

Rebekah Takes the Lead

2010-12-10T21:20:00.001-05:00

Today was the third AR Celebration of the school year. Rebekah - you have been working so hard to catch the girl in first place with AR points. And.... you did it!!! You are now 1st place for the entire school with AR points. Daddy and I are so proud of you and so are all your classmates. The video below is so cute - I can see you pop up in that Santa hat before Mr. Hitzges even calls your name. Way to go my sweet reader!!

Trimming the Tree and Visit with Santa

2010-12-06T20:15:00.002-05:00

We had a great time with Santa this year. All the kids were excited to sit with him and talk about how good they have been this year!! He spent so much time with them and created a memorable experience for all of us!

We came home and trimmed the tree. Micah was especially excited since he doesn't really remember anything from last year. He loved each and every ornament - and the Georgia Tech Santa is still a fan favorite at the Crozier house!

Rebekah was really getting into it this year ~ She didn't just want her ornaments around the bottom, but insisted on climbing the ladder to make everything even! Love that!

Sweet McKinney - always looking for a good time and this is no different. So excited he could barely contain himself while I was getting the ornaments out of their boxes!

I have mentioned that I LOVE Christmas!!!