the missing link

Date Night

2012-02-08T11:48:00.000-05:00

Over the weekend Rob and Keaton went to a father-daughter dance and it was "more fun than he thought." Rob's words on the evening. They got dressed up in festive Valentine's red and Keaton even got to wear flowers on her wrist. She was thrilled to get flowers from Daddy!

Rob giving Keaton her red flowers

notice the matching red fingernails

so proud!

these two even danced a bit!

silly pic!

The moms were sneaky and got to hang out together one room over from the dance. My little date was handsome and enjoyed flirting with all the moms.

Handsome Jay

Jay Money in the tub

Hiding on my iPhone: Random Stuff

2012-01-29T09:01:00.000-05:00

January has been busy, but not necessarily with interesting family fun. Here are some photos that have been hiding on my iPhone for a few weeks. I'm not necessarily as good about taking our good camera with us on outings now that Rob and I are on man-to-man defense most of the time. Less camera time for me. We have a little weekend trip coming up soon so I'm determined to get some photos outside the house!

Little Mountaineer

Both kids had check-ups in the same week so we got to see Dr. B a lot. Healthy reports on all accounts!

playing ponies while waiting for the doctor

happiest baby ever!

These warmer than usual winter days have led us out to feed the neighborhood goats a few times. Save your rotten carrots...that means big entertainment for us!

Keaton and the herd of goats

she names each goat every time we visit

Jay's view of the goat fun

the path to the goats

when I leave my phone laying around, this is the silliness that happens

Half

2012-01-22T21:57:00.000-05:00

Happy Half Birthday to Jay!

6 months old!

Christmas PJs and Keaton the Dancer

2012-01-16T10:49:00.000-05:00

Both kids had on their Christmas PJs one night so I took the opportunity to catch some silliness. Nana has become the official PJ supplier of these kids and she matched them up well for Christmas! No captions below....just two silly kids post-bath and pre-bedtime.

On Sunday afternoon Keaton had her mid-year show at The Little Gym. She's become quite the Jazzy Bug and demonstrated all her "fancy moves" during her tap, ballet and creative movement routines. I, however, was a terrible mom and did not purchase the black/white tutu so she's wearing last session's pink poodle outfit. We have too too many tutus so I did not purchase one for her to wear for the 20-minute show. Keaton did not seem to mind at all.

time to tap!

tapping toes

ta da!

creative movement with a scarf

getting her feet just right in starting position

such a graceful ballerina

Yes, He's Always this Happy!

2012-01-16T10:28:00.000-05:00

This is Jay's "I'm Gonna Get You" face!

Week 23

Week 22 with Puppy

2012-01-15T15:30:00.000-05:00

I missed a week or two, but here's week 22. Happy as can be!

Week 22

Forgotten Photos

2012-01-14T22:36:00.000-05:00

Apparently I have neglected to download photos from one of our cameras. It must have been stuck in the diaper bag for a while.

Keaton treated her classmates to lunch and treats the day before her birthday. Nana was also in town so she got to join in the fun.

Keaton sharing birthday lunch with friends

Keaton took this pic

and then she turned the camera on herself....

That same day I brought home my office fish...Data the Beta was "the" prize of the annual Dirty Santa game. Keaton has fallen in love so we have decided to keep the fish at home.

Keaton meeting Data

We did something wild and crazy on December 30...we went to Dollywood AND we bought season passes. It was insanely crowded, but we will be back!

Jay at Dollywood

Rob and Keaton have a thing for flying elephant rides...be it Dumbo or Faux Dumbo

Who Needs Santa When You Have Nana?

2012-01-03T22:05:00.000-05:00

Nana came to TN for Christmas to avoid those cold PA winters. Today she has 30 inches of snow! No thanks! We're glad she made the long drive, extra long this time thanks to a wreck on the interstate.

don't ask why Keaton is wearing a night gown over her clothes

Nana and her two favorite grandkids

a noggin smooch from Nana

Christmas 2011

2011-12-29T09:19:00.001-05:00

Christmas 2011 sure was a great one! We filled up the office with gifts and Keaton helped everyone open their gifts and then Jay played with the wrapping paper.

my kitchen helpers squeezing clementines for these brownies

bowl licker

(Aunt KK, we promise we did not get chocolate on the new jersey!)

like father, like daughter...in their Penguins gear

two boys in their sweater vests

the madness of Santa gifts!

Keaton and Woody

the birthday piano stool picture, age 4

Jay's Christmas outfit, made by B

B got the gag gift of the year - her own, personalized tater box!

This gem was discovered by Rob at a new thrift store opening.

He certainly knows how to pick gifts for his mother-in-law.

Keaton has been enjoying bluegrass music lately so now she has her own washboard!

This post is starting to make us look like really impressive rednecks.

new coat for me!

Rudolph 1

Rudolph 2

The Real #4

2011-12-28T15:31:00.000-05:00

The real #4, 12/23/11, was a lovely day for Keaton. It began with the usual search for Peppa Mint and we found her hanging out with a birthday sign. We opened gifts, went to the Muppet movie, ate at Newk's and ate some birthday cake!

Peppa Mint left Keaton a birthday sign

opening gifts in PJs

a new Fancy Nancy book!

this kid loves to open presents

doesn't every 4 year put on Barbie

makeup before leaving the house?!

ready for the Muppets with Aunt KK

Keaton picked out her own cake

she's 4!!

a smile while we sing to her

Christmas lights at the park with Maddie

Green Beans

2011-12-20T10:23:00.000-05:00

This kid loves to eat his veggies and fruits! So far Jay has tasted green beans, bananas and sweet potatoes. So far Jay likes green beans, bananas and sweet potatoes. So far we think he's going to be a good eater!

Jay got his first taste of green beans while we were at B and Papa's for dinner when Lem and Alice were in town.

Green Bean Eater

Choo Choo Time

2011-12-19T09:25:00.000-05:00

The UT Gardens put up a lovely display of toy trains for the Christmas season. Keaton went last year with B and Papa and this year we all went. Jay was festive in his red and green choo choo outfit. Keaton loves looking at trains and there were some clever train cars with Chick-fil-a cows and even goldfish riding in a car!

Mama and Jay

checking out the trains from the bridge

Papa helps Keaton toast a marshmallow

sticky face!

Keaton and her American Girl, Baby Keaton, dressed up for a Christmas party

goodies at the party

Maddie and Keaton

Peppa Mints has been up to no good!

She hung someone's undies on the stocking hangers one night!

Jay Baby enjoying a photo session. Week 22

Party Like Your Birthday is Two Days Before Christmas

2011-12-18T22:10:00.001-05:00

For December babies, and especially for babies born on Christmas Eve Eve, there's great concern about birthdays getting overlooked. That has not been my experience since I'm December-born and it is certainly not the case for Keaton. She just celebrates for an entire month.

We embraced the season this year and invited Santa to Keaton's party. I just called him up and he had an hour to kill between shopping and eating cookies so he stopped by. Mrs. Claus packed some goodies for the kids and everyone got to talk to the big guy. Lem and Alice were our outstanding photographers so here's what they captured.

getting the cookies and cupcakes ready

Aunt KK and Jay taking it easy as the party got started

Aunt KK , B and a local bakery made delicious cookies!

while we waiting for Santa we decorated picture frames with markers and stickers

Maddie wacks at the pinata!

Noah has excellent pinata technique!

Ho Ho Ho! Santa arrives and is looking for Keaton!

All of us with Santa!

singing Happy Birthday

chatting it up with Santa, asking for a baby doll kitchen

Santa was jolly as could be!

these two need modeling jobs

Alice and Lem with Santa

sweet pic of Daddy and the Birthday Girl

Jay loved all the wrapping paper

and Keaton loved her Barbie car!

who's playing in the wrapping paper!?

Bell Ringer

2011-12-18T21:50:00.000-05:00

We signed up to ring bells for the Salvation Army one brisk Saturday morning. Keaton and Maddie made it through a 2-hour shift with several breaks, but mostly ringing and singing. We will do it again next year and invite some more friends to join our shift!

Keaton and Maddie ringing

stationed in front of Hobby Lobby

Keaton enjoyed her first "warm chocolate" while ringing

We decked out the front door with a snowman

wreath made from Papa's grapevines. We think he's quite cute!

Jay just keeps growing and smiling. If this boy isn't smiling, he's sleeping or eating.

Week 20

The Big #4...just a peek

2011-12-16T09:19:00.000-05:00

There's been big stuff happening around here....Keaton month-long celebration of #4, Jay eating green beans and bananas, Christmas activities and squirrels in the attic. Thanks to Lem and Alice we have 537 birthday photos to get through! They worked two cameras for a couple of hours at Keaton's party. My goal is to do a massive blog catch up this weekend, but here's one shot of the birthday girl blowing out her candles. More to follow....

Keaton blowing out candles

Jay Laughing at His Annoying Voice Mommy

2011-12-03T22:54:00.000-05:00

I wish I could get Jay to smile and giggle withOUT sound like an idiot myself. Please ignore my high-pitched silliness and enjoy Jay's giggles, laughs and a snort. Nana, he's your grandson...he snorts just like you!

Christmas Cheer Hiding on my iPhone

2011-12-03T20:23:00.000-05:00

at breakfast she insisted that she wear her Santa hat with her Santa jammies

the undecorator

Peppa Mints likes blueberry syrup

as much as Buddy the elf likes syrup on his spaghetti

ringing bells and drinking her first hot chocolate!

More Pro Photos to Check Out!

2011-12-01T08:53:00.000-05:00

Jessi, our favorite photographer, posted a few more shots from our session a few weeks ago. You can see them here. Check them out and leave her a friendly comment!

Giving Thanks

2011-11-26T22:43:00.000-05:00

I thought I'd give you a "behind the scenes" look at what it takes to get our weekly puppy pictures. Keaton is often the behind camera entertainment...she's so "helpful" like that! Jay is usually a pretty good smiler no matter the antics from big sis.

Week 18

Keaton cuddling up to little bro

and here's what happens if you look behind the camera

and now it is time to eat the puppy

funny guy

There's an extra little guy to be thankful for this year! We spent Thanksgiving in town with a low key but delicious meal at B and Papa's house. Keaton and I made the pumpkin pie and the sweet potatoes. We started the long weekend off by going to Daddy's office to drop off some gifts for the Angel Tree.

Keaton with her bag of gifts for a little girl

who loves Dora the Explorer

Chef Jay

getting ready to stir the pie filling

my two favorite guys watching the Thanksgiving Day parade

Keaton on her ladder in B's kitchen

Papa got my old two-seater trike down from the attic;

Keaton and I made a pretty good team!

can't get enough of these guys!

only one month until she's 4!

he's 20+ pounds of baby love and my arms get stronger every day

everyone ready to eat!

B and Jay finishing up their meal

the famous Thanksgiving walk

a typical scene...B messing with the camera and Papa

in a Rural King sweatshirt wrangling the dogs

on Papa's shoulders

Jay hitches a ride on Mama

And that concludes Thanksgiving so now on to Christmas and holiday cheer! We went downtown to the tree lighting. The weather was pleasant and B and Papa joined us for the fun.

Jay bundling up in his warm Christmas clothes;

Keaton wore this onesie when she was 11 months old. Jay is 4.5 months old.

Eat More Chicken....or candy canes

Jay in is reindeer suit

this is what happens when you tell Keaton to pose;

you get the booty side and plenty of sass

sitting with Santa!

peace on earth

(or at least some peace in the back of my beat up mini van!)

Weeks 16-17 with Puppy

2011-11-19T15:56:00.001-05:00

Yep, he's still growing! We'll need extra butter to go with all these rolls!

Week 16

Week 17

Disney on Ice, 11/11/11 and Cereal

2011-11-19T15:51:00.000-05:00

We took Keaton to Disney on Ice a few weeks ago and she loved it just as we assumed she would. The show is pretty cool even for adults. Pictures are impossible at those things so I don't have much. Keaton did get to shake Mickey's hand after the show.

Keaton and Daddy waiting for the show to start

Mickey in a balloon

Our growing boy as passed the 4 month mark and he's enjoying cereal now! The big decision for dinner...rice or oatmeal? Keaton usually chooses oatmeal for him as that's one of her go-to meals. Jay dressed in his "formal attire" for the big night of food beyond the bottle.

Jay eating big boy food!

B and Papa took an overnight babysitting shift while Rob and I drove to Columbus for Linda's 11/11/11 birthday! What a fun excuse to have a party. She chopped off her hair into a fancy 'do for the big night and I love it! We had a wonderful time catching up with them!

Linda and Julie

Preschool Pics

2011-11-06T20:55:00.000-05:00

Keaton sitting pretty for preschool photos. She chose her outfit so, of course, that means the cowgirl dress. She's outgrown her cowgirl boots so Santa might have to do something about that. Thank goodness that the mom that helps with photos is a friend and neighbor and got Keaton's bow in her hair just right!

Keaton, age 3.75

Folks, this is post #500. This blog has been going for 4 years now. I hope that it still exists when Keaton and Jay are old enough to browse through it on their own and relive a lot of great times.

Halloween 2011

2011-11-03T16:15:00.000-04:00

Halloween was fun this year! Keaton employed the zig-zag method of trick-or-treating...running back and forth across the street...and came away with a good candy haul. She was by far the cutest trick-or-treater out there in her B-made Annie dress, red curly wig and heart-shaped locket. I rigged up Jay's puppy costume and we called him Sandy (Annie's dog for those of you who have not seen the movie 900 times like I have).

B and Papa manned the front door and kept Jay so Rob and I could walk the neighborhood with Keaton. Next year we think Jay is going to riding in the wagon like Keaton did her first year.

Jay taking his pre-Halloween snooze

Annie giving us her best pose!

pretending to do the 'clean up' song (Hard Knock Life)

I love Halloween!

cutest puppy ever!

the trick-or-treat gang

weird guy with crazy hair

William as Spiderman. He's Keaton's "best buddy."

one of the many "please take ONE" candy bowls

Keaton and Maddie about half-way through our route

Keaton and her candy haul!

And that makes for an awesome Halloween! Monday night Halloweens are hard, but I'm a firm believer than trick-or-treating must be ON Halloween. None of this "Halloween observed" stuff that I saw on the local news.

I still need to back track and document some more of our fall fun, but I had to get the Halloween post up! I'm already thinking of next year's costumes. I think both kids should be pirates! Or maybe Brother and Sister Bear from Berenstain Bears or Olivia and Ian or Woody and Jessie. The ideas are plentiful, but who knows what they will be into by this time next year.

Catching Up on the Growing Boy

2011-11-01T21:37:00.003-04:00

I owe the blog 3 weeks of Jay + puppy pics. I've taken them all, but uploading and writing a few words are hard to squeeze in these days.

Week 13

Week 14

Week 15

Fall Fun

2011-10-22T17:56:00.000-04:00

There's been so much to do on the weekends with the great weather and fun places to go. We're making the pumpkin farm rounds! Jay gets to ride in the "baby pouch" and Keaton gets to run and run like a kid should on a farm. She loves to meet the animals and pick out the perfect pumpkin! We met friends this morning and had a good time on a hay ride!

Keaton and Bryce meet a baby cow

Keaton sampling the farm-made ice cream

Akrights on the hay ride

Jay enjoying the bumpy ride with Mama

we found a green gourd that looked like an apple

Keaton and a sunflower girl

Brecken and Jay chilling at Sweet P's after the pumpkin patch

I don't usually like to spoil the Halloween costume by posting it before trick-or-treat night, but since this year's costume is simply stunning, here it is! Introducing.....Annie! Keaton LOVES Annie and B made her THE red dress. We were not sure Keaton would wear the wig, but she wore it for about an hour at her school's fall festival on Friday afternoon.

Annie on the slide

We got Annie!

Keaton's teacher painting her face

lift up my chin and grin and saaaaay....

Daddy and Jay at the festival

Spiderman (William) and Annie

painting a pumpkin

Random Shots Hiding on my iPhone

2011-10-16T08:35:00.000-04:00

Random shots hiding on my iPhone....

B is for Beatles

pumpkin toes

my two favorite boys

"Bone Jammers" as Keaton says

Keaton's heaven...dozens of bottles of nail polish

Official Baby + Big Sister Photos

2011-10-12T15:29:00.000-04:00

Make sure you check out Jessi's sneak peek of our family photo session here! More shots on the way in a few weeks...stay tuned.

Pumpkin Time!

2011-10-09T15:51:00.000-04:00

October is pumpkin time around here! We went to a new pumpkin patch this year and it was MUCH better than getting stuck out in the cow pasture last year. The pumpkins were really grown at the farm (as opposed to be trucked in a dumped in the field) and they were manageable size for a 3.75 year old.

Keaton in the field

pumpkin head Jay and Mama

Keaton loves the baby goats

Keaton and Annalise drive the tractor

Keaton checked out the cutest tiny pig

Mini donkeys

which is the cutest pumpkin?

Papa is proud that Keaton loves a John Deere

this picture actually happened...not even any bribing

WV Girls and No More of This Silliness

2011-10-06T09:21:00.000-04:00

This super cute photo was from Nana's visit in late September, but I'm a lazy downloader these days.

Aunt KK, Nana and Keaton ready to watch a WVU game

Only today and Friday remain as my last hours of maternity leave, which means there's very little time for weekday silliness such as this:

silly kids

Poor old Ruby Sue sitting on the sidelines

little puppy kiss

is it weird that I'm going to miss this sweet little almost bald head??

Week 11: Puppy Pics

2011-10-06T09:05:00.000-04:00

Whopper + Smirk = Totally Cute Baby Jay

Week 11

As Keaton Explains....

2011-10-04T18:39:00.001-04:00

Keaton explained wedding rings to me on the way home from school today...

Keaton: Hey Mommy, you still got that wedding ring?
Julie: Yes, of course I do [showing her my finger].
Keaton: That means you love Daddy!
Julie: Yep, you're right!
Keaton: And Daddy has a ring so that means he loves you!

Lovely explanation, don't you think?

Life Lately

2011-10-02T23:14:00.001-04:00

Life lately has been both busy and slow...Jay and I take it easy during the week after our busy weekends. All that is about to end, however, as I only have one week left of maternity leave. Back to reality soon enough.

my two favorites

Jay's first stroller ride, not in the car seat (which he is about to outgrow)

smiley baby

this was taken weeks ago, but Keaton

got to play in the Market Square fountains one Wednesday

she had the fountains all to herself

and Jay slept through all Keaton's playing and splashing

Keaton asked us to go camping one evening, which means...can we go outside and make s'mores over the fire pit? Of course! The perfect thing to do on these cool evenings we've been having!

s'more please!

gooey goodness!

Princesses are fun, but fairies are even more fun. Our friend Kali turned 4 so we put on our "fairy best" to celebrate.

Maddie and Keaton with matching fairy tatoos

Kali and Keaton

fairies in the kitchen

Uncle Lem came to visit for several days so we took him to the zoo! Apparently he likes to goof off just like the baby red pandas.

Keaton and Lem at the zoo

riding the merry-go-round

Keaton and B checking out the rhino ladies: Polly, Dolly and Maggie

And, we took Keaton to her first UT football game on Saturday! She was pretty excited about it and really liked looking for Smokey. We tailgated with bagels and fruit and then strolled to the stadium where Keaton saw "so much orange!"

Rocky Top Rob, Lem and Keaton tailgating

someone decided it was too chilly and ate in the car

Daddy, Keaton and Mama at the stadium

Uncle Lem and Keaton

watching for Smokey at the game

Jay stayed with B during the game, but wore his

orange football outfit like a good little Tennessee boy!

These Two are Definitely Related

2011-09-23T20:39:00.002-04:00

Keaton and Jay are each about 10 weeks old here. Yep, these two are definitely related.

Click the picture to see it larger.

Keaton Quotes: What Day Is It?

2011-09-23T15:37:00.000-04:00

Yesterday we were in the car discussing some plans. Rob and I took the opportunity to quiz Keaton on her days of the week. The conversation went something like this....

Rob: Keaton, guess who will be here tomorrow?
Keaton: Nana! Is she here now?
Julie: No, today is Wednesday and Nana is coming on Thursday.
Rob: What day comes after Thursday, Keaton?
Keaton: Wednesday!
Julie: No, think about it...what day is after Thursday?
Keaton: Saturday!
Rob: It starts with an "F"....what day?
Keaton: Fursday! [spoken more like: Ffffffursday!]

Jay the Whopper

2011-09-23T15:19:00.000-04:00

We new early on that Jay was going to be a big boy. He has not slowed down at all. At his two-month check up this week, he weighed in at 16 lbs and 1 oz which literally puts him off the growth charts. He's 25 inches long. Thus, a whopper.

I was late taking this photo so he's really 9.5 weeks old here...I like to be exact! Jay likes to smile at us and say "ooo" and "goo."

Jay at 9 weeks with Puppy

My friend, Jen, made Jay a blankie that's personalized just for him. Only a great friend will go to great lengths to incorporate "whopper" into a handmade gift. Jen, you rock, and thank you multiplied by the number of rolls on Jay's arms!

Can you handle this?!

Weekend Out West (TN)

2011-09-15T08:23:00.000-04:00

Our favorite cousin, Sara Nan or Nanner, turned the big 3-0 on September 8 so we headed to West Tennessee for the celebration. Her friends through her a party with a baseball theme and a delicious cake!

Julie, Nanner and Jay at the party

Sara Nan and Becky

Keaton taking care of cake business

peanuts and pennants

Rob and Keaton cracking peanuts

oh look....there's finally a picture of me!

Mama and her kiddos in outfits smocked by B

even better...a picture of all four of us!

I finally got to visit the Vawter House in McKenzie! Papa has been working on it for months and I've seen the pictures, but finally got to see it in person. It is the perfect, comfy farmhouse.

Sunday morning on the porch

Vawter House

Week 8: Puppy Pic

2011-09-13T14:01:00.000-04:00

Jay at 8 weeks

Tap Tap Tap-a-Roo!

2011-09-06T13:18:00.000-04:00

Keaton continues to take dance and gymnastics classes at Little Gym. Here she is warming up her tapping toes before class last week! Warning: check the volume on your speakers before playing!

Tapping Keaton

It's Framily Time!

2011-09-06T13:00:00.000-04:00

Nope, not a typo at all...Framily...that's a friends-family mash-up because that's how we feel about Linda, Kevin and Flynn. They came to visit for the long Labor Day weekend and we had a wonderful time.

Last time we saw Flynn she was turning 1 year old in Disney World and now she's 18 months old and turning into such a big girl. She impressed us with animal sounds, especially her duck sound which sounds more like Donald that an regular ole quack, and she eats vegetables! That impresses me because Keaton sticks to sweet taters and corn on the cob (not off). Flynn also liked to point at Jay and say "baby!" Smart girl!

We hit up the splash pad and the pool and then the rain settled in for the rest of their stay. We still managed to have a wonderful time talking, laughing and sampling cupcakes.

Flynn and Keaton splashing

a silly Keaton face

cutie Flynn splashing

why can't two kids look at the camera at the same time?

dress-up time!

even Linda played dress-up, mouse ears of course

all seven of us on B and Papa's porch

Keaton put her hands over her ears because the wind was blowing loudly

Buckeye fans holding Jay

We tried to get a photo of all three kids and these two shots were the best efforts;

next time we will either take it while they are sleeping or put them in hand cuffs! ha!

Jay is now 7 weeks old and just keeps growing! Keaton helped me with his weekly puppy photo and you can see how "helpful" big sisters can be sometimes! We ended up with a good shot, after all!

Keaton and Jay post-bath

Week 7

Growing Kids

2011-08-31T08:27:00.000-04:00

Jay is growing much like the weeds in our front flower beds...inches every day, it seems. Keaton is growing too. She's very tall compared to the kids in her class.

Jay and Keaton on the play mat, our after dinner activity most nights

Week 6 with puppy

More Shots from Our Life Around the House

2011-08-25T13:29:00.000-04:00

One thing I've realized with two kids is that it is difficult to also manage a camera on the go! I feel like I'm missing shots of the things we actually do outside our house...will try to do better with that so you have something more interesting to read.

Sometimes is the fun to sit on the counter to eat your chicken nugs

Big Boy doing his tummy time

moving and grooving

Ruby gets in on some tummy time

Do you have your tickets for the gun show?!?

(Guns = biceps, for those of you that have never heard that joke.)

Peek-a-boo! Notice Keaton's line of bathtime duckies

the grandmothers entertain Jay

Nana's birthday

Week 5: Puppy Pic

2011-08-25T13:17:00.000-04:00

Here's Jay at Week 5. At 5.5 weeks old he weighs 13 lbs and 6 oz...still a whopper of a kid. He's wearing 3-6 months clothes. He's given us a few smiles in the past couple of days.

Week 5

More from Jay's Birthday

2011-08-19T13:32:00.000-04:00

B and Papa got some different shots from July 17 so while they are a month old, I'll still share them.

B with her first grandson

Keaton and Daddy checking out Jay in the nursery.

He had just passed his hearing test.

Papa and his future tractor riding buddy

B, Papa and Jay

Big Sis had just meant her little brother when this was taken.

All FOUR of us getting ready to leave the hospital.

Proudly filling up the min van.

Random Shots Hiding on my iPhone

2011-08-18T22:01:00.000-04:00

My iPhone is my constant entertainment while nursing Jay so here are lots of random shots from the last couple of weeks.

happy little brother

a little Tennessee fan

loving Dad

watching cartoons

Keaton swimming...sort of

B and Keaton riding the train at the mall

spruced up Keaton's room with this new decal

sleeping boy

a kiss from big sis

paci tricks

Keaton playing dress up

Sweet Boy

2011-08-17T17:20:00.000-04:00

We haven't done many things picture-worthy outside the house lately so here's a few shots of Jay while I played around with the camera one morning.

Jay at 4 weeks old wearing day gown made by B

Jay's blanket was knitted by B

Jay's piggies

Now get ready for this....these two kiddos are definitely bro and sis! Jay's 2 pounds bigger that Keaton, but they do look a lot alike!

Jay in green at 4 weeks old

Keaton in blue at 4 weeks old

another of Jay's serious looks

Daddy and Jay after bath time last night.

Rob made that Gonzo on the wall when he was a kid...cute, huh!?

Week Four: Puppy PIc

2011-08-17T17:05:00.000-04:00

I took the photo on time, but I'm posting a few days late. At 4 weeks old, Jay is maintaining his whopper status at 12 pounds, 95th percentile. He's busting the toes out of his sleepers and enjoys his meals to the fullest!

Week 4

Week Three: Puppy Pic

2011-08-08T13:50:00.000-04:00

I caught Jay in a rare fuss for week three. He's doing great and sleeping more now...yay!

Jay, Week 3 with Puppy

What's Been Going On...

2011-07-31T21:51:00.000-04:00

In between dirty diapers, feedings every 3 hours and lots of rocking and bouncing, life had managed to press on. Keaton has scored several big sister presents...a bubble maker, some books and more.

bubbles on the playset

cute shot of a cute big sister

Jay has been relatively tolerant of baths and now that his bellybutton has dried up, he'll get a real bath! Keaton is in charge of toe washing. Jay has the cleanest toes in town.

bath time!

B and I, mostly B, made some bean bag chairs for the playroom. Both kids enjoy their comfy seats every day!

bean bag babies

With big sisterhood, comes princess duty. Keaton likes to wear as much glitter, glam and sparkle as possible.

doing her own makeup

Princess Minnie Tiana...or something like that

Since the hospital doesn't offer the traditional cheesy baby photos any more, one of these shots will serve at Jay's official baby photo. That is, unless Papa got a good one at the hospital...haven't seen those yet.

Week Two: Puppy Pic

2011-07-31T21:33:00.001-04:00

telling puppy a secret

Week One: Puppy Pic

2011-07-24T21:22:00.000-04:00

If you think back about 3.5 years ago I started taking weekly pictures of Keaton with her special stuffed bunny. Jay is going to sit in the same blue chair with this puppy dog on a weekly basis so we can mark his growth.

When I get a few weeks in I'll make a little slide show like the one of Keaton to the right.

Jay with Puppy, Week One

Jay Has Arrived!

2011-07-24T16:05:00.000-04:00

If you haven't heard, Jay arrived Sunday, July 17 at 1:36am. He was 9 pounds and 21.5 inches long. Whopper of a kiddo, I tell ya! Papa won the pool with the closest guess of July 18, his own birthday!

Jay weighs in at 9 pounds

Daddy and his boy

Mama and her TWO kiddos

Sister and Brother meeting for the first time

snuggling with Mama for the first time

peaceful Jay

B, Keaton and Jay

Nana made a mad dash from PA to meet Jay on his birthday

enjoying his fuzzy blankie

Sorry it took me a week to get to this....Jay's early arrival put us to the test. I've never seen Rob move as quickly and carry as big of a load down the stairs as he did last Saturday night. We'll be here will regular updates now!

House is Ready, Mama is Ready, Baby is Not

2011-07-15T15:54:00.000-04:00

This a a rare picture-less post, but figured you were due an update.

Our house is finally put back together again after several days of multiple sub-contractors working on it. Repair and replacement of some guttering is all that is left, but the major stuff is done. Well, the mini van is still beat up, but that fix happens post-baby for sure.

We painted the playroom and the master bedroom and Papa is coming over tomorrow to help hang things on the wall. So, the house is ready.

I'm ready to have this baby, but the doctor isn't willing to mess with my "perfect" BP and Jay's "perfect" heart rate so here we are just waiting and growing, growing and waiting. I've been working from home...actually, from the recliner to keep my swollen ankles and feet up. I'll work until he's here and then take off for 12 weeks.

Both Papa and B have birthdays next week so maybe Jay will want to share a birthday with one of them. You've still got time to submit your guess for his arrival stats. Do so here.

Farm Party!

2011-07-10T16:15:00.000-04:00

Keaton's friends, Parker and Graham, turned 4 this month and those boys love everything farm and tractor-related. They had their party at a farm that was perfect for kids...lots of friendly animals and lots of fun things to play and climb on.

Keaton and Jasper the horse

Jasper was very friendly!

Don't ask me why I'm holding a 38-pounder while 38 weeks pregnant.

Parker and Keaton; don't they look like they are on top of a [dirty] wedding cake?

hay ride time!

wave to the camera!

blowing out candles

how many kids fit on a tractor tire swing?!

Three Cousins: Dolls and Dancing

2011-07-08T09:59:00.001-04:00

Our Jackson, TN cousins Julia and Gracie joined in on the fun in McKenzie over the 4th. B made three dollies for the girls and they were a hit! The girls played with them and even danced with them at the warm-up session of the Vawter Family Band.

And, thanks, Molly, for the great pics! Look at how good we are color coordinating our girls even from across the state!

Julia (age 5.5), Keaton (age 3.5) and Gracie (age just shy of 3.5)

dancing with their dollies to some good bluegrass music

cooling off inside and playing with dollies

Olympics for the Short Set

2011-07-07T22:21:00.001-04:00

It is birthday season for some of Keaton's school friends...there are a lot of kiddos turning 4 this month! Her buddy, Lennox, had an Olympic theme to her party and it was exhausting (if you're 8+ months pregnant), but super fun. There were teams and races and a dunking booth for dads who were really good sports.

There was a hula hoop contest especially for the moms and let's just say those other moms should be really happy that my middle section won't even fit in a hula hoop right now. I would have taken them down! The winner was challenged by the birthday girl's grandmother and that was a sight! She can still shake it.

Rob and Keaton won the wheel barrow race by a long shot! Keaton and her friend, Ava, won the water balloon toss because their balloon just wouldn't break no matter how many times it hit the turf!

Getting prepped for the pink/blue team

listening to the rules

one dad dunking another dad...winning team got to dunk a dad on the losing team

warming up for the wheel barrow race!

No contest!! The Links take the gold!

balloon toss with an unbreakable balloon

4th of July....McKenzie Style

2011-07-07T22:06:00.000-04:00

First, Jay's arrival could be only days away so be sure to make a guess on his arrival date and other stats here.

July 4th was quite the celebration this year. Lem and Alice joined us from MN. And, big news from them is that they are getting hitched in October! So Alice officially becomes Aunt Alice and she definitely deserves the title after how many times she played hide-n-seek with Keaton over the weekend! Thank you, Alice, and welcome to the family.

While I stayed hope to "bake" Jay comfortably in the air conditioning and my favorite recliner, Keaton traversed the state to join in the Vawter family reunion (that included a few bonus Roys, too)! She was a very big girl to travel without Mama and Daddy. Rob went to the greatest concert ever....U2 in Nashville.

The Vawter House was opened up to all family after months and months of hard work. You can read about the house on Papa's blog here and here. Complete with a family band, the Vawters helped McKenzie celebrate the 4th in style by playing at the local festival.

Judy/Mimi played the jug at the band's warm-up session at the house

Papa and Keaton back stage

Vawter Family Band (Alice, Lem, Papa/Vince, and David) playing for all of McKenzie

You've probably never seen Cousin David on our blog so here's an introduction....he's our hot shot Nashville cousin who used to write for Country Weekly Magazine and is now an editor at Nashville.com. He's a musician and has interviewed all the greats including Dolly Parton! David, you've officially made it big time now since your pic is on our family blog! ;-)

And, here's Keaton who must have sweet talked B into taking Lem's tiny violin from 25 years ago to McKenzie. She likes to play along and she might even rival Papa's banjo playing....right, Pop?!

Mini Fiddler

We also spent a little time poolside with Lem and Alice. Keaton had a blast playing with them in the water.

Lem, Keaton and Alice swimming

uncle shoulders are the best!

Keaton at the Splash Pad

Jay's Room

2011-07-01T21:57:00.000-04:00

Here's one quick shot of Jay's room. We have a loose airplane/travel theme in there. As we spruce up each corner of it, I'll add some more photos. His crib is nice and cozy and Keaton can already spell his name thanks to the letters on the wall.

Jay's crib

When Will Jay Arrive? Place Your Best Guess!!

2011-06-30T10:25:00.000-04:00

Now that the countdown is really on, use this post to submit your best guess as to the day of Baby Jay's arrival! We did this with Keaton and Aunt KK came within an hour of her actual birth so there's some real competition!

At the very least, submit your guess for the day that he will arrive and if you'd like to make some other predictions, go right ahead....time of birth, weight, length, etc.

I know we have a lot of readers, but not a lot of you comment so this is your chance to make a comment with your guess! The winner gets the glory of winning and if you'd like we can save you a dirty diaper to change, too!

The facts to inform your best guess:
Official Due Date: July 26
Jay is already "whopper status." At 35 weeks he was 5 lbs 13 oz.
Keaton arrived 8 days before her due date.
Keaton weighed 7 lbs and was 19 inches long.

Willie is a Winner

2011-06-29T09:53:00.000-04:00

We all know that Willie, Papa's dog, is quite the character, but did you know he's also a winner? Finally Willie busting through the screen doors [countless times] has paid off. He's a photo contest winner. Click here to see him in all his glory. Willie wins a new collar and Papa wins a Garden & Gun hat. Perhaps a more relevant prize would have been a new roll of screen.

Splashing to Skating

2011-06-25T20:37:00.000-04:00

One of Keaton's long-time buddies, Sydney, turned 4 this past week so there was quite the celebration at the Splash Pad! This was Keaton's first time to try it out and she embraced it with a sprint through the entire pad on her first round. Needless to say, we'll be pack at the Splash Pad very soon. In fact, Uncle Lem, this is your job during your visit coming up! Bring your trunks and water shoes!

And, thank goodness Aunt KK has come through for the second summer in a row with the famous tutu swim suit. Keaton referred to it as her "party swimming suit" on the car ride to the party.

Keaton's sprint through the Splash Pad

summer splashing!

cute kiddos doing the locomotion

couldn't help playing with my iphone instagram app during Keaton's run

And, now switching to the coolest summer sport of ice skating, here's Keaton learning to shake her booty on the ice so that she scoots backwards. I'm sure there's some good reason for this, but I'm not aware.

Ice Ice Booty Shake

Lacing Up Skates and Whopper Baby

2011-06-24T09:47:00.000-04:00

Despite a very grumpy lesson a week ago, Keaton laced her skates back up last night and was a skating champ! She has most of her basic skills down and is now ready to work on gliding. "Baby Keaton" her favorite doll even has a pair of skates and got to skate with Keaton and Daddy during practice time last night. Two more lessons in this session.

And, as of yesterday, Keaton is officially 3 AND A HALF! She's getting pretty good at remembering to say "AND A HALF!"

Whopper Baby will now be checked on weekly...he's still pacing ahead so I'll be happy to meet him before his due date, July 26, if he wishes to appear. The doc says it is time to slow down, pack our bags and strap the baby car seat into the [beat up] mini van.

Father's Day Retro and Future

2011-06-19T21:31:00.000-04:00

This was Rob's first official Father's Day in 2008. That little napping Keaton who was 6 months old was certainly NOT here today...she's turned into a 3 AND A HALF year old who was everything but a napping angel tonight during dinner.

Father's Day 2008

Father's Day is really tough without Pap Pap, but it makes me thankful that I made the grandpas stand still for a picture a couple of years ago after Father's Day lunch at Sweet P's. These three couldn't be happier!

Papa, Keaton and Pap Pap

Rob was nice enough to spend Father's Day Eve helping get Jay's room polished off. I need to take some good pictures -- promise to do that this week -- but here's a preview! His room has an airplane/travel theme so what you see below are dashes (75 of them in the room!) of the airplane loop-de-loops. It will make sense when you see the rest of the room. We are pretty much ready for him and Diapers.com will love the Link family again soon!

fixing up the boy's room

We had everyone over for dinner tonight and Rob grilled the best steaks! KK made cheese taters and B brought chicken wing appetizers. Delicious! After dinner the dads opened their gifts. Papa got a blue bird house and a "canjo." Yep, that's a one-stringed banjo made with a V8 can since he's V3.

Papa's birdhouse

Papa checking out his canjo music book

Robby and his loot...fresh shirts and Foo Fighters

Keaton and Daddy

Papa is back from a few days at the Vawter home in McKenzie. Here's a shot of the front. We are going to miss the family reunion due to Jay's pending arrival, but we know there will be some good stories. We'll get there later this summer once Jay can join us (not in my belly.)

Vawter Home

Jay update...he's still a whopper and my waddle is a full on waddle. I'm moving much slower than I ever have so he's welcome to come join us in the world as soon as he feels like he's ready. My OB appointments are weekly now which means the count down is on! His room is ready, his big sis has been ready for weeks now and I'm getting anxious to meet the ninja whopper baby that's been so busy in my belly the last few months. However, he MUST wait until after the NKTOB + BSB concert on Tuesday night.

Intense Concentration

2011-06-11T22:23:00.000-04:00

Just hiding on my iPhone...Daddy and Keaton concentrating on their pre-dinner coloring and word finding.

A Girl's Best Friend

2011-06-10T22:36:00.000-04:00

Keaton and Ruby have a special bond and that's mostly thanks to Cheerios. Ruby was a good dog when Keaton was an infant...she kept me company on late-night feedings and didn't bother all the baby gear that flooded the house. Ruby figured out Keaton was going to be a great addition to the household during the high chair and Cheerio phase.

Now, Keaton likes to decorate Ruby's cake with these magical O's and this year she got a special treat with some bonus Honeycombs!

Happy Birthday to Ruby!

Ruby Stinkin' Sue

2011-06-08T21:55:00.000-04:00

Ruby Sue is 9 today. She's currently mad at us, but we'll make good tomorrow. The fence is still down from the hail storm so she hasn't been able to run in her yard off the leash in weeks. I think this old girl will be so happy when she can run free again and I will be very happy for one of my dependents being able to potty self-sufficiently again! We're hoping the fence will be fixed tomorrow....finally.

Puppy Ruby, about 7 weeks old, on her first day at home

Julie, having an excellent hair day, and Puppy Ruby

Keaton and I baked her a cake tonight and we'll ice it (with cream cheese) tomorrow. The cake must smell great because she's whining in the kitchen as the cake cools on the counter. At least someone appreciates my baking efforts!

doggie cake cooling; doggie drooling

The Old Girl today on her 9th birthday

Double Toe Loops in Our Future

2011-06-08T21:23:00.000-04:00

What's the best thing to do when it is 90+ degrees out?! Go to the ice rink, of course!! Keaton is loving ice skating lessons for the month of June. She's had three lessons so far and has made vast improvements one to the next. She's steady on her feet and can stand up from the ice and she can even play Simon Says on the ice!

I'll have to say that Jay and I enjoy the rink as well...nice and cool!

stretching with Coach Sarah

practice time with Daddy

Over the weekend we joined in Katie Ann's birthday fun...full on princess party! Nothing more fun than that!

I'm 33 weeks along with Jay, but he's more like 35 or so. He's officially a whopper of a baby. Keaton went with us to an ultrasound today and then proudly carried around his squishy face picture for a while. Jay is a big, healthy baby....let's just see if I can continue to bake this bun for another 6-7 weeks!

Nanner and Nanner Puddin'

2011-06-01T21:41:00.000-04:00

Over Memorial Day weekend, Nanner and 'Nita visited us in East TN. For some reason I didn't have the camera going as much as usual, but here are a few shots from our Sunday lunch at Sweet P's! Nanner has seen Rob make facebook posts about this place so she had to try it!

Nanner tries the Banana Puddin'

Keaton knows a "happy plate" will get her a scoop of puddin'

Julie and Nanner at Sweet P's

{almost 32 weeks pregnant}

Congrats to "Friend Maddie!"

2011-05-31T21:16:00.000-04:00

A couple of weeks ago "Friend Maddie" (not to be confused with Cousin Maddie) graduated from pre-school so we went to cheer her on! I think Cousin Maddie also graduated from pre-school so we should say congrats to her, too!

Keaton, Kali and Maddie

Gymnastics Medal

2011-05-31T21:12:00.000-04:00

Summer has officially started and this is Keaton's look...rolling in the mini van with her shades on.

Cool Keaton

Keaton did really well in her latest class at The Little Gym. She was pretty good at following directions and trying new moves. Last week the Jazzy Bugs had their "big show" and got their medals for all they had accomplished!

following directions with the green foamy thing

Yay!

close up of the medal!

Hello from....

2011-05-24T11:03:00.000-04:00

...Fort Keaton!

Things are starting to get repaired from the hail storm damage and one of the first things is a new swing set! It was installed yesterday and Keaton tested it out last night after school and work. She likes climbing to the top and looking out the telescope for pirate treasure! Argh!

Orange is for....

2011-05-22T19:24:00.001-04:00

Uncle Lem, more video just for you. Keaton came up with this statement "all herself."

Orange is for...

Finding Nemo...

2011-05-22T11:21:00.002-04:00

This weekend we went on a little family of three (plus bun in the oven) trip to Atlanta. The main reason was to take Keaton to an Imagination Movers concert, but we also went to the Georgia Aquarium. It was a full day, but she loved both attractions. The Movers are four guys who "figure things out" by brainstorming in their warehouse. They sing and dance their way to solving an "idea emergency." Please tell me I'm not the only parent who understands all this!!

She was determined to find Nemo at the aquarium and we did eventually find three clown fish in a small tank. The whale sharks are also a favorite because they are big, but gentle. Keaton was very good at identifying all the different kinds of fish. The dolphin show was a bit cheesy, but seeing dolphins jump right in front of you is pretty cool.

Finding Nemo

look at all those colorful fish!

whale shark!

checking out something in the touch tank

Keaton (with ear plugs) and Daddy at the Movers

Mama and Keaton (pointing to Nina, her favorite)
{30 weeks pregant with Jay}

Rewind a Few Weeks

2011-05-22T11:05:00.000-04:00

I forgot to download a couple of patches of pics from April so here's a little rewind...

Keaton is a pro bowler! She bowled a 107 at her friend's birthday party! Nevermind the bumpers in the gutters and the slide contraption to help get the ball rolling...she loved it! The phrase of the day was "yehaw!" thanks to her cowgirl dress!

Time to bowl!

the fancy shoes help too!

That weekend we also went to see chalk drawings on the sidewalk in Market Square. There was some super cool stuff. Maddie and Keaton loved doing a little chalk art of their own, too.

butterfly chalk drawing in Market Square

Maddie and Keaton in their sundresses

expressing themselves with chalk

Related to a Lady Vol

2011-05-20T10:39:00.000-04:00

You can read all about it here, but cousin Julia is officially running as a Lady Vol. She signed with UT to run track! Run, JuJu, Run! We'll be cheering you on!

Popsicles and Ponies

2011-05-14T22:35:00.000-04:00

I was lucky enough to get a fancy popsicle maker for Mother's Day. It freezes a popsicle in less than 10 minutes! It is going to be a fun summer with a recipe book full of good ideas. We made lemonade 'sicles one evening while Nana was here and then tried cookies and cream the next night. Both were yummy!

Keaton got the first popsicle

Nana and Keaton made a little stepping stone

Our friend, Ean, turns 3 this month so he invited all his friends to a pony party! Keaton loved it, of course. She had her pick of pony-themed clothes and went with an orange smocked number from B. The pony on her dress looked exactly like Frank!

Riding on the pony cart. This is Frank the pony.

the kids got to take a long ride around the field

bull riding (the safe way)

Ponies are awesome...real ones or pretend ones.

Grandmothers are Great!

2011-05-09T21:29:00.000-04:00

Nana is hanging out with us this week. She and Keaton "played bubbles" one afternoon. Bubbles bring instant happiness for all ages. Keaton had gymnastics earlier in the day so she's still wearing her leotard.

Keaton and Nana and lots of bubbles!

Keaton and her two grandmothers after Mother's Day lunch

Sweet shot of Nana and Keaton

Choo Choo's in Nashville

2011-05-06T21:37:00.000-04:00

Keaton, B and I took a girl trip to Nashville last Sunday just for fun. Amongst some furniture scouting we did some fun things like check out the train display at Cheekwood Gardens. Keaton even took her camera and got lots of great pictures of the trains herself!

Tiny Photographer

Keaton and B checking out the trains up close

photo credit Keaton C. Link

walking in the gardens

peek-a-boo!

Storms Are No Fun

2011-05-02T21:33:00.000-04:00

Last Monday a branch of the neighbor's dead tree crushed the top and one side of our swing set.

Monday night's damage

Wednesday brought more bad stuff...uprooted live tree, hail damage to the house and my beloved mini van and lots of clean up. Since the neighbor's dead tree is a a threat to our house, Keaton and I high-tailed it to B and Papa's house for the night. Rob was away at a conference and dealing with the storm damage from afar.

Keaton was a brave girl through the three rounds of rain, wind, hail, thunder and lightening. I have to claim to be the chicken because I'm scared of this tree. It threatens our house and probably 5 others and it has been dead for at least 2 years and drops limbs every time the wind blows.

Scary Tree

Well, somehow this dead tree did not fall, but another one next to it did fall...luckily, it did not hit a house or car. It fell square in the backdoor neighbor's driveway.

On the other side of us a live tree uprooted taking out part of our fence, but really damaging the house behind. Three large gashes in the roof that rain poured into for hours, a crushed deck and a scared family that was huddled in their downstairs bathroom. This house now has a blue tarp on the roof.

uprooted tree

our fence damage is small potatoes compared to the house behind

the fence folded like an accordion

And, here's a pile of hail from B and Papa's house. I've never seen anything like it. So, if that's the pile of hail, you can imagine what my mini van looks like....texture of a golf ball. Hooptie status for sure!

hail at B and Papa's house

So, that means the total damage will probably mean....a new roof, new siding, new HVAC units, repaired fence, new swing set (kind of happy about that one), possibly a new mini van (bittersweet feeling there), and some smaller things like patio chair cushions, kid's patio set and a grill cover. And maybe some trees to replace the smaller ones beaten up by the hail and wind.

Last week was eventful and I know everything thing there is to know about root balls, a bruised roof, punctured siding and exactly how our insurance works!

Easter 2011

2011-04-24T21:06:00.000-04:00

We had a beautiful day for Easter this year! We missed Nana who is under the weather, but that means she'll get to come for Mother's Day...even better. The Easter Bunny came to Keaton's house, we went to church and then to B and Papa's house for lunch.

Keaton wearing her sad face for an egg with a boo boo

Daddy and Keaton hunting eggs in the front yard

found a pink one!

next to her purple flowers

these are my two favorite people...aren't they cute!?

Keaton is pointing to Jay in my belly...she does not forget about him

checking out the egg goodies

inspecting a green egg

B and Keaton after the second hunt of the day

do you see the little bunny?

Aunt KK joined us for lunch....4.5 Links in this picture

B, Papa and Keaton

What's Hiding on my iPhone

2011-04-23T22:14:00.001-04:00

What's hiding on my iPhone might have to become a regular series....there's a lot of funny moments captured here.

In random order...

Keaton sports an outfit from San Francisco's China Town

given to her by my boss

hanging out on the tire swing one evening

riding the choo choo at the mall...with bunny ears...doesn't everyone do this?!

Keaton was loaded with her baby doll's gear for a trip to UT to see Cousin Julia run

after seeing Cousin Julia run,

Keaton wanted to run her own race in the driveway

A Chat with a Bunny

2011-04-19T21:06:00.000-04:00

Keaton met the Easter Bunny last weekend at our local toy store. She was very excited to meet him and asked him if he'd hide some eggs with chocolate in them in her yard.

Keaton chats with EB

EB lets her in on a secret

Ice and Eggs

2011-04-18T21:23:00.000-04:00

First, Keaton has her first pair of hockey skates. She's totally excited about them! They fit well so Rob will get them to the rink and have them sharpened. Then we'll be ready to spend some hot days in the cool ice rink.

Daddy's Hockey Girl

No one laces skates better than Daddy

We went to B and Papa's church for their annual egg hunt. The egg-to-kid ratio was a bit in favor of the eggs...the chilly wind must have kept hunters at home. Nevertheless, we wore our rain drop dress that B made and our golashes since the grass was a little wet.

Keaton and her loot

Found an orange one for Tennessee!

inspecting the loot on the church steps

On Sunday afternoon we invited some neighborhood friends over to decorate eggs. I was busy egg spinning so I don't have any pictures, but B took this one of me, Keaton and our carrot cupcakes. We had a super time with our friends and have a lot of pretty eggs to show for it. Keaton was a lovely hostess arranging flowers for display and welcoming her friends at the door.

Mama, Keaton and 22 cupcakes

the taste yummy!

After the egg decorating and after the munchies, the kids played inside and outside. The entire inventory of Keaton's play kitchen made it to the coffee table. World's biggest toddler tea party!

The Kicker

2011-04-13T13:48:00.002-04:00

Here's our little kicker at 25 weeks. He is certainly more active than Keaton was as this stage and most friends have offered up that it is the difference between a girl and boy. He's nicknamed "the ninja baby" because he takes karate lessons (in my belly) at 3am. He and I both have a healthy report from the doctor so now we'll just focus on eating well and staying cool.

Keaton is still very interested in my growing belly and often gives James (she likes to use his formal name) hugs and kisses. She's going to make a great big sister.

Jay at 25 weeks

Available on Newstands....

2011-04-06T10:50:00.000-04:00

Keaton's picture from her 3rd birthday party made the cover of a new little magazine in town! Click on the picture to see more of the magazine.

Dancing and The Baby Bump

2011-04-03T16:08:00.001-04:00

Here are a few more shots from dance class. It is impossible to get a good picture thanks to the windows and fast moving ballerinas.

singing the welcome song

practicing shuffles in tap shoes

Keaton watching her feet in the mirror

ballerina warm-up

helping Daddy with the yard work

And, here's the Jay bump at 23 weeks

Tiny Dancer

2011-03-28T21:16:00.000-04:00

First, a couple of shots that I finally remembered to download from my iPhone...Mimi and Keaton looking for frogs and playing a tune on the piano.

Mimi and Keaton, frog hunting

learning Chopsticks

Mimi and Keaton's duet

Since Keaton's brief soccer career didn't work out, we are trying dance. Her buddy, Ava, invited her to dance class this evening and we have our own dance class on Wednesday evenings. So far it is super fun to stomp around in tap shoes, but Keaton is learning some good moves.

Sorry for the blurs, but these are phone pics and with fast-moving dancers the images aren't very good at all.

Keaton in pink, Ava in black

Keaton catching some air!

And, of course, our baby doll, also named, Keaton, had to get a dancing outfit so Etsy to the rescue! They are pretty in pink tutus!

Twirling Keatons

she loves her baby doll!

Vawter Home

2011-03-22T14:48:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to bring your attention to Papa's post on the renovation of the Vawter Home in West Tennessee. As long as Jay is happy inside my belly for July 4 weekend, we'll be adding to the count of Vawters invading West Tennessee.

Jumping and Riding a ....

2011-03-21T14:36:00.000-04:00

We had a great spring weekend full of outside fun! Keaton attended a birthday party of our little buddy, Alison, who turns 2 this week. There was plenty of jumping, bubble blowing and birthday cake! This was also Keaton's first time to wear French braids all day long. I know most people wouldn't care about that or even capture it forever in a blog post, but French braids are a happy memory from my childhood so I was excited to see my little girl sporting them on Saturday.

We also visited with Mimi and her new (old) dog, Molly and went to B and Papa's for dinner. Keaton and B picked "yellow flowers" and Keaton got a quick lesson on baseball with a new (pink) ball, bat and glove.

jumping in the jumpy house

taking her turn with the bubbles

marching with her yellow flowers

On Sunday we went to the zoo and Keaton was very brave and rode a camel! She said she wanted to try it and then didn't hesitate to hop on his hump and ride! She made two circles around the track and seemed to really like it. It is safe to say this girl is an animal lover. She's also been a big help watching out for Ruby while she's under the weather.

riding a camel!

there she goes on the camel!

(sort of) riding a lion now

the white bengal tiger was resting in a sunny spot in perfect view

Leprechaun Kisses

2011-03-17T12:58:00.001-04:00

A leprechaun kissed Keaton's cheeks and she got green freckles! Happy St. Patty's Day!

Keaton Quote: Is the baby leprechaun going to hatch from his egg and leave me a candy cane?!

Holiday mash-up.

Feels like Spring!

2011-03-13T13:37:00.000-04:00

It finally is starting to feel and look a little like Spring around here. While Keaton was home sick one day recently we broke out the Easter eggs for an inside hunt. Yes, she was wearing Christmas jammies, but they are so soft and comfy so we're not giving them up just yet!

Easter egg time!

Rob and Keaton playing Angry Birds

And today we got out to the park! We had a picnic lunch and then it was time to run! Keaton carried Jessie all over the park today. She's starting to be able to pump herself on the swings! This is going to be a fun summer at our favorite park.

Keaton at the park

sending Jessie down the slide

Jessie is first and then Keaton...weeee!

learning to pump herself on the swings

throwing rocks into the water

And, here's another reason is feeling like Spring....we're growing our own frog. Last year Keaton was fascinated with Mimi's backyard tadpole, however, she was a little confused and called them "iPods." B and Papa got a kick out of that and for Christmas gave Keaton a mail-order tadpole. We waited for the weather to get a little better, sent in a postcard and then add iPod (yes, that's his name) to our family. He lives on top of the bread box in the kitchen and we feed him stinky food once a day.

Soon his tail will retract into his body and his little legs will grow. He'll stay in this container his entire life. We'll keep you updated on iPod!

Keaton's iPod

Pirate Ship Fun

2011-03-11T22:07:00.000-05:00

Since I don't have any March pictures yet due to illnesses and travel, here's a video of Keaton at the kiddie pool in Disney World. Our hotel had a pirate ship themed area and Keaton loved the slides!

Slide and Splash!

February Post-Disney

2011-02-24T21:15:00.000-05:00

After we finally popped ourselves out of the Disney bubble where everything is happy and pretty, we enjoyed the rest of the month of February. I'm a little lite on photos, but here are some random shots.

We told Keaton to run upstairs and get her Steelers jersey and she returned with a red Chinese outfit that Pap Pap brought her from his travels. We were glad she pulled it out of the back of the closet because she sure looked cute playing in it!

Keaton the China doll

Keaton also started a parent-kid soccer session. So far she enjoys dressing up in the gear a lot more than she likes playing, but we hope she'll warm up to it!

getting ready for soccer!

Daddy and Keaton on the field

getting a "please pay attention" talk

passing with Daddy

Rob's birthday and Valentine's Day were low key after a week of Mickey Mouse, but there were presents to open and green cake to eat! Our green cake was quite pretty this year, but I don't even have a picture!

Keaton was excited about stickers from Nana!

"My Dad is Totally Awesome" -- the perfect attire for

Daddy's birthday and Valentine's Day

Cousin Maddie from WV and her parents came through town on their way back from a trip to Florida. These cousins have the most fun and get along so well! As long as there's a play kitchen and plenty of dress-up clothes, these two are fully entertained!

Keaton and Maddie at Volunteer Landing

check out Keaton's big girl haircut with bangs!

too difficult to get two kids to both look at the camera!

cousins checking out the choo choo

Figment

2011-02-22T10:25:00.000-05:00

Keaton designed her own Figment at Epcot!

More Disney Pics

2011-02-20T19:26:00.000-05:00

I still owe you a lot of pics from Disney so I'll run through a few here and then try to catch up on other stuff like soccer and friend's birthday parties and Keaton's big girl hair cut!

Woody, Keaton and Jessie

the castle at night

one of Rob's more artistic castle shots

Cinderella, Flynnderella and Keaton as Tianna

Keaton and Sleeping Beauty

Snow White and Flynn

all tuckered out on Kevin's shoulder

Keaton and Mickey in Africa

we survived our safari!

Tianna, Mama, Keaton and Prince Naveen

Piglet, Pooh and Keaton (dressed as Jessie)

under the hat at Hollywood Studios

someone was not a fan of loud parade music

Handy Manny and Keaton

Oso and the girls

Daddy, Keaton, Buzz and Woody

if only we had packed Keatons cowgirl boots!

hilarious pic of the dads and "green army man" from Toy Story

look at this...we can both wear the hat at the same time!

never too chilly for Keaton to swim!

Disney World or should we call it Princess World?

2011-02-13T19:23:00.000-05:00

It will take me a couple of posts to capture all our fun on our week at Disney World. It was a surprise for Keaton and she was so excited to see Mickey at dinner the first day we got there! She was super excited to spend the week with Flynn and thank goodness the two girls could entertain each other between parades and princess sightings.

Keaton the traveler at the airport

in her "choo choo" traveler dress made by B

first bus ride to dinner with Mickey and friends

Keaton asking for Mickey's autograph

Flynn (who was more interested in honeydew melon at the moment), Minnie and Keaton

Oh Gawrsh!

Kevin, Linda and Flynn

The three of us + baby boy

conducting music with Figment at Epcot

Rob and Keaton loved the jumping water fountains!

time out for a dance at Epcot

Everyone with all our favorite characters.

This crew even did the "hot dog dance" for us!

Flynn and Marie the cat are making the same face...scrunchie nose!

This was the big moment of the trip: Keaton showing Snow White the little Snow White on her dress. Keaton's day was made with this sighting of Snow White next to her wishing well.

THE picture of the trip

At Epcot we ate in Norway with all the princesses! Here's Ariel in her ball gown.

We made it to the Magic Kingdom the next day.

Our girls in their mouse ears!

Keaton's favorite....why? Horses, of course.

The Daddy-Daughter tradition: Dumbo ride.

More to come...have to space it out a bit!

Celebrity Keaton

2011-02-10T10:28:00.000-05:00

For our Knoxville friends, the mom of one of Keaton's classmates has started a little magazine for party planning, Knoxville Parties & More. Keaton decorated an awesome cupcake at Conner's party last September and her cute pic made the webiste!

It's a.....

2011-02-09T16:41:00.000-05:00

BOY!!!

If you voted for a boy, then give yourself an extra treat today. It is definitely a boy!

Keaton joined us for the ultrasound today and the doctor gave her a picture of her little brother as we left. She held on to it all the way back to school. In her classroom I suggested she put the picture in her bag to keep it safe, but she refused because she wanted to hang on to her little brother.

I told Keaton that we'd buy her little brother a present this weekend and she immediately suggested a rattle because that's what babies like. It is going to be fun to have a boy and to see Keaton blossom as a big sis!

If you'll notice, I've changed the sub-heading of our blog. "Adding another Link in the chain."

We'll be back in touch with the little boy's name and lots more Disney pictures!!

We're Back....

2011-02-06T16:01:00.000-05:00

We're back from a week at Disney World and as you know that means A LOT of photos to sort through! Over 600. Here's a photo of Keaton and her main squeeze, Mickey Mouse. He wore his formal attire just to meet Keaton!

Keaton and Mickey

Stay tuned for more news this week....we should find out the sex of the littlest Link if everyone cooperates and Keaton starts soccer!! Be sure to vote boy or girl over to the right!