Life with the Thurman Girls

Paige

2009-06-03T23:04:00.002-05:00

Paige asleep in her crib tonight.

Working on her sippy cup. Check out those baby blues.

First time in the pool.

Hanging out with Aunt Ju Ju

Adorable. Are those tears one your sweet face?

MIA

2009-06-03T23:00:00.004-05:00

The Sand box. . . otherwise known as Crabby. .Mia's favorite place to be right now.

Staging her wedding to Cade outside in the driveway.

Abby

2009-06-03T22:54:00.003-05:00

Abby six years old!!!! What a precious kid!

Playing outside. . .my three girls!

Abby's speaking debut at school. . .

Up on the big screen

Catch Up

2009-06-03T22:05:00.003-05:00

I am amazed at how quickly this year has gone by. The girls are growing up so quickly. Abby is just two weeks from being a first grader. Mia is about to turn four this week and Paige is crawling. It is so busy with these three girls that I have hardly recorded any of the fun, crazy, and sweet things that they do.
Abby has lost nine teeth this year. . . .you heard . me. nine. Five of them were pulled by the dentist because they were decalcified. She was put to sleep for the first time. . . I have to tell you that it was really hard to walk out of that room with her knocked out. She did awesome though and we were so proud of her. Her last one she refused to let Greg pull and she swallowed it at school. . .gross. She has learned so much at school this year. . . She is reading. I love to hear her read to me, her sisters or her make believe class. She loves math and is very good at it. I could not be more proud of how she has excelled in school and how she has enjoyed it. In May her class was in charge of the Friday morning "Rise and Shine" program for school. Their theme was Mothers Day and Abby's job was to talk about a picture she drew of me and her. When she got the mike, she looked right at the audience and spoke loudly and clearly about her picture. There are no words to describe how proud of her we were. Her favorite thing to do right now is playing school. She serioulsy comes home from school and heads to her room and plays school. I love to hear her in there teaching her class, reading to them and discipling them. I get so tickled thinking that she is modeling her teachers behavior. What a blessing she is to us. We have gotten a taste of the ups and downs of girls and their friends and feelings and emotions. . . wont highschool be fun. I spend lots of time praying that I will have the right words to guide her through these times, these clashes of personalities so that she will be able to stand up for herself, to have kind words and compassion for others but to also not care what others think about her. Sometimes it is so overwhelming to think about the task of raising girls these days. Anyway, enough about that. . . .

Mia has kept us in stitches all year. Seriously, she is about the funniest kid I have ever been around. It is hard to punish her for some of her stunts because they are so funny. I am scared about what the future holds for this little one. We caught her lieing to us about eating easter candy after we told her not too. There were candy wrappers all over the bathroom as well as a stash of candy behind the potty. She hid that candy so that she could go back to it. Oh my. The other day she did not like what Greg told her so she stomped his foot. She is stubborn and very strong willed. Finding the right way to discipline her has been a huge challenge. Yet her little personality is so charming. She loves hanging out with her sister and just being a part of things. She loves to play with her boy friends. . . she mostly has boy friends very few girl friends. She likes to talk about how she is going to marry her friend Cade and they are going to live in NY. She is very adamant abou this. Good thing we like Cade's parents. . . :) She gets upset when she sees Greg and I kissing and tells us that those are her kisses. I love it when she looks at me or Greg and tells us we need some Mia time. She has definitely made her place in this family known. She turns four this week. One more year until kindergarten. . . Where did the time go.

Paige is changing daily. She has three teeth and has at least three more coming in. This weekend she started to crawl. Oh my goodness, that has happened so quickly. The house is not at all ready for a ten month old that wants to get everywhere and put everything in her mouth. She is so precious. She loves to play patty cake, clap for herself, eat cheerios and yogurt bites, smile at me and pull my hair, laugh at her sisters and watch her daddy walk in from work. When I go in to her room in the morning she always smiles at me and then gives me a squeeze when I pick her up. We got her a pink swing for the swing set and she loves to be in it. It puts her to sleep almost every time. Honestly, she is such a delightful baby. We are teaching her to wave goodbye and to give us five. She is saying dada, but not mama. Bless her heart she has struggled on and off since this Thanksgiving with respiratory problems brought on by colds. We are back there again but this time it has turned into pneumonia. We are so tired of this and hoping that this new round of medicine will help get this under control. Sadly she is just following in the footsteps of her older sister.

Girls, I am definitely not a perfect mom. . .far from it in fact. But I love you. I wont always do everything right, I wont always have the cleanest house or have the laundry put up, But I will always love you. I wont always react the way I should or have the right words to explain the world to you. . . But I will always love you. I wouldnt give up this last crazy year with you and I look forward to even more adventures with my Thurman Girls.

9 months old

2009-04-30T21:37:00.002-05:00

I am back for the moment!

Paige is nine months old today. How crazy is that. The last time I posted she was 12 weeks old. How fast the time has flown by! Paige is sitting up and reaching for everything. She hates being on her stomach, I mean hates it. Most likely this is why she is not crawling. She is reaching for everything and trying to scoot to what she cant reach. She would much rather stand than sit. She LOVES to pull my hair. She loves her food groups and cant get enough of the sweet potato puffs. She has her two bottom teeth. Every morning when we go in to get her she is smiling. I mean really every morning. She starts to kick her legs and reaches for us. She is saying dada and mama some. She laughs at her sisters when they are being silly, it is my most favorite sound. We have definitely hit the more difficult phase of the first year. She is not happy hanging out in her bouncy or on the floor while I try and get things done around the house or play with the other girls. She wants to have me around all the time. She spends a lot of time on my hip walking around the house or playing with the girls. We got her a swing for the swingset, she loves being in it. When we push her, her little feet move around feeling the breeze on them. She is such a joy to us and her sisters. I genuinely cannot believe that we are three months from her first birthday. Where did the time go.

Abby, Mia and Paige on the swings

Daddy and Paige at the Tulsa zoo.

Nine months old and eating cheerios

Seriously, could she be any cuter!!!

12 Weeks old

2008-10-25T00:41:00.000-05:00

Paige
You are 12 weeks old. I cannot beleive how quickly the time has flown by. You are such a good baby. You are sleeping through the night (YIPPPPEEE) and taking ok naps during the day. Bless your little heart, you spend a lot of time in the car seat, going from here to there and everywhere in between. You love the swing and being held by mom. You infuriate your father as he cant seem to figure out how to keep you calm. Dont worry, he will ge the hang of it. You have such a precious smile. Abby loves to help take care of you and Mia loves to play with you.
You are growing so fast. You have been to Silver Dollar City with all the cousins. Now that was a good trip. You love to be held by anyone, just as long as they dont put you down. You hate being put on your stomach and love walking around and looking at the world. We love you.

Little Sisters Rock!

Honey and Paige

Hanging in the car seat at Olive Garden

Silver Dollar City

Just Chillin

Grandma and Paige

You are adorable. Is that a red tint to your hair I see? We could only be so lucky.

Paige and Mia

Adjusting

2008-10-25T00:17:00.000-05:00

The rest of August was spent adjusting to everything new. A new baby, a new school, oh and a newly potty trained three year old. . why not. We are up everyday now and at least Abby is dressed by seven. Greg takes her to school most days. He loves it. I take her some days but almost always in my pjs. I just cant seem to do better than that yet. :) Paige is doing great. She is still in that sleep all the time mode and I am reminded by everyone that I talk with about it that I will miss these days. . . .they were right.
Mia is missing her sister something awful. It just didn't dawn on me that Mia would be so affected by Abby going to kindergarten. But she has lost her playmate and that makes her sad. However, she does like playing big sister to Paige. . . if only I could just get her to stop touching her all the time. Did I mention we are adjusting. :)

My Girls!

My crazy family.

Mia and Paige resting together. . . PRECIOUS.

First Bath. . she loves them when she gets them.

All clean.

Hanging out in Mia's bed.

JOY.

Nothing like a good summer rain to play in.

Paige hanging out in the bouncy seat.

Absolutley beautiful.

Big sister, little sister time.

Mia, why were we ever worried about you becoming the middle child. You are destined to entertain us all.

KINDERGARTEN

2008-10-24T23:55:00.001-05:00

Abby started kindergarten at Happy Hollow on August 6, 2008. It seems like yesterday that she was born. We have been so busy with Paige that this has come tooo fast. You are ready though. We have the back pack, the clothes, and the school supplies. But more than anything you are ready for the challenge, the new friends, the learning and the fun. Abby, you are going to do awesome in school. You will love it and will excel in it. You will have fun and make friends that you will have wonderful experiences with. We are so excited for you and for other people to get to know you and how precious you are. What a wonderful adventure you are starting. Thanks for letting mommy and daddy come along for the ride.

The night before. The backpack is stocked with school supplies and the lunch is ready to be packed. ANTICIPATION. . .

Abby and her cousins hung up her clothes for the first day. I wonder how long that will last. . .

Abby is so excited.

All dressed and ready to go. Could she be any cuter.

Mommy and Abby. . . I am not sure if I am ready to let her go.

In front of the school. . . She was so not wanting me to take her picture.
Breakfast in the cafeteria. She wasnt going to eat until she saw all the other kids eating. We had to bum money off the McCredy's for her. Ok, so we werent as prepared as we thouht. HA.

Anna and Abby sitting at their table.

Mrs. Lopez is handing out their nametags. She is their teacher and is the best.

Abby in a sea of kindergarteners.

A new webkinz to celebrate Abby's first day of kindergarten. I could not be any prouder of her. WAY TO GO ABBY!

HOME . . . Life with three begins

2008-10-24T23:40:00.001-05:00

Paige is home and life with three begins. Thank goodness for Honey. She stayed for the first several nights and took the evening feedings. It was wonderful. Abby and Mia cannot get enough of Paige. They want to hold her all the time. I sleep alot due to the pain medication but things gradually get better. Again, thank goodness for Honey.
Paige welcome to our life. What was it like before you? I am amazed at how God's plan unfolds and at how peaceful life seems when you are in it. Paige, you, Mia and Abby are part of His wonderful plan for me and your daddy. Eleven years ago, we would have never thought this is where we would be. Three beautiful girls! Amazing.

Paige is introduced to the best seat in the house. . . .Daddy's recliner.
Getting ready to go to the Doctor for your first checkup.

Abby feeding Paige and loving every minute of it.

Mia and Paige. . .these two are going to get into some trouble.

PAIGE ALAN THURMAN

2008-10-24T23:12:00.001-05:00

July 30, 2008

The day that Paige is to arrive. We have waited for nine months to see what this little one will look like.. . . . .

Mom waiting to be taken back to the OR.

PAIGE IS HERE!!!!!! WHAT A BEAUTIFUL LITTLE GIRL. All I could think when I heard her cry was thank you Jesus for such a sweet sound! Eight pounds even and looks just like her sisters.

I see her for the first time

Greg feeding our third girl. He is the best Girls's daddy in the world.Big Sister Abby is in heaven.

The girls see her for the first time. They both have on shirts that say BIG SISTERS ROCK.

Greg and his Girls. . . .He is in heaven.

JD, Megan, Abby, Mia and Paige. . . Cousins. JD is our only boy.

Julia brings the other cousins by, Elizabeth and Allison... . the oldest two of the Thurman cousin clan. We range from age 1o all the way to newborn. What a blessing from God.
Uncle Bop drives all the way from Quincy to see his new niece. Thanks Bop.

Paige your birth was another miracle. You were born healthy and with quite a set of lungs. Rumor has it you screamed for over an hour and the nurses were quite impressed with the sound. Your Honey, Papa, Grandma, Grandpa, Aunt JuJu, Uncle Dwight, Aunt B and Aunt KK were all there to see you that day. Aunt B and Aunt KK were such big help to me and with the girls. I am the luckiest sister to have them and you are the luckiest niece. So many people came to see you, our third Thurman girl. You have dark hair, which I am sure will turn blonde and you can suck down your bottle in no time flat. Thank you Jesus for Paige and for the plan that you have for our family. Paige, WELCOME! We are a crazy, imperfect, precious, blessed family, and I think you will have the time of your life being a part of it. We love you little one.

June

2008-10-24T22:45:00.000-05:00

June is a big month for us. Greg and Mia both have birthdays and we also celebrate our anniversary. This year was eleven years. Greg turned thirty five and Mia turned 3.

We had a great time celebrating her birthday with family and friends. It was an outdoor party in the backyard. . . .is there any better way to celebrate a summer birthday. Her big present was a bike from us, she still hasnt gotten the hang of it, but it is hers.

Mia, you love playing with your sister, reading books and watching way too much tv. You still crawl up in your daddy's lap and drink your chocolate milk. You will always be our baby, even after Paige gets here. You will be a great big sister. We love you more and more each day. Your laughter is so contagious. You are mischevious and we find it hard to get on to you for the things that you should not be doing. You are an absolute delight to us.

The rest of June was spent preparing for Paige and swimming at the pool as much as possible. Abby learned how to ride her bike without training wheels. GOOD JOB ABBY. Time in the backyard was well spent. My sweet friends hosted a shower for Paige and me. I love getting together with friends and eating! Paige received such precious gifts from our friends. We are so blessed.

MAY

2008-09-17T13:56:00.001-05:00

The rest of May was great. Abby finished up her last year at Creative School. We flew kites, played outside, hung out with friends and enjoyed a great Memorial Day.

Flying kites with Daddy
Mia and Greg inaugural Slip n Slide
Sisterly Love
Abby and Daddy working
Memorial Day Fun

Branson

2008-09-17T13:43:00.001-05:00

Mia the pirate

The Cousins

Silver Dollar City
Abby the Magician's Assistant
Mia Playing
Abby driving the Duck
Abby and Daddy riding go carts

We spent our summer vacation in Branson in early May. We had a great time, we swam, rode the ducks, did the Cities, went to the Butterfly palace , played miniature golf and rode go carts and all around had a great time. We love Branson.

MOTHER'S DAY

2008-06-21T15:39:00.000-05:00

The Creative School put on their annual Mother's Day Tea for the mom's in the blue room and purple room. Each mother received the cutest invitation from their child. The kids were adorable as they marched in for their performance that day. Abby sat next to Gavin and Anna, our neighborhood friends. They sang several songs for us. My favorite was "peanut, peanut butter and jelly". Abby sang so good and seemed to be having a blast. She was very intent on watching Ms. Wiggins so she would not make a mistake. After the kids sang, they were each sent to get the crosage they made for their mother and put it on their wrist, mine was sunflowers. After that we had tea that the kids made and snacks. When all the food was eaten, especially the candy they made for us, the mother's were presented with their gifts. We all recieved sweet handpainted pictures using their feet and hands as the flowers and stems. Abby's is adorable and I cant wait to get it hung up. It was a sweet time and a reminder at how quickly she is growing up. I cannot believe that she will be in Kindergarten next year. It is truly mindboggling that the time has gone by so fast.

Abby's class is in the front row

Abby's smile is my favorite!

Anna M., Abby and Gavin. Aren't they adorable.

"Peanut, Peanut Butter and Jelly"

After the tea, Abby went to the store with me and helped me pick out things for the baby Paige. She was such a big help and loved scanning the items for our list. She picked out some cute clothes for her and I let her buy Paige a toy and some books. Abby you are going to be a great big sister to Paige, you already are so good with Mia. Paige is going to be so glad that you are hers. What a great end to a great Mother's Day time.

MIA'S BED

2008-06-21T15:32:00.001-05:00

These pictures make me laugh because somewhere out there are pictures of Abby doing the same thing. I came in to wake Mia up from her nap and this is how I found her bed. Loaded down with anything and everything she could find in the room. I especially love the stroller. I wonder what went through her mind after I tucked her in. Then I think, how did she sleep with all this stuff on there. Somehow, she did though and woke up happy as a lark. I just cant tell you enough Mia that you make me laugh and bring such humor into our lives.

BERRYVILLE BOYS AND THEIR FAMILIES

2008-06-21T15:15:00.000-05:00

I am playing catch up from the first of May, so here goes. Greg's friend Ryan and his family came into town for a visit so we planned a Berryville Boys get together. These Berryville Boys are the guys that Greg grew up with, he met Ryan as a four year old. In other words these boys go way back. Anyway, now that we have all had kids we figured it was time to get them together. Between Ryan, Chad, Matt, John and Greg there are 12 kids. I am not sure who had a better time, the kids or the boys. Abby and Mia love having everyone over (ok, so maybe not Mia, but eventually she warmed up). We had a blast with Ty and Nate, Lauren and baby Grace, Sam, Kate and baby John and Ruby and baby Jane. They played baseball, croquet, slid down the slide forever and jumped in the bouncy. The kids got along great and so did the parents. It is fun to see how life has changed for all of us. I cant wait till these kids are old enough to hear the Berryville dad's tell their stories. . . or at least some of them.. . I know the moms are tired of hearing them by now. HA HA HA. GO BERRYVILLE BOBCATS

Kate B., Mia, Lauren B. and Sam B. all coming down the slide at the same time. LOVE THE SMILES.

What I want to be when I grow up

2008-05-06T20:37:00.001-05:00

Last night while cleaning up my desk. . . a task I do not do enough apparently. . I found Abby's papers from church on Sunday. Their lesson that week was "I am special because God made me". The filled out a little information sheet like, "What is your favorite food, What is your favorite thing to do. . " Anyway, you get the picture. On the question "What do you want to do when you grow up?" Abby wrote be a teacher. Now this is the first I had ever heard of this so today I asked her about it. I said Abby I did not know you would like to be a teacher, that is great. She said "Oh mom I just put that, I dont really want to be a teacher." Well Abby, I said, what do you want to do. She answered.. "Oh, live at a house and just watch tv and eat snacks, play and not really do anything". . . HA HA HA.

I could not stop chuckling for several reasons. One, does she think that house is going to be our house? and two, who does she see that does that? Then it dawned on me, does she think that is what I do!!!! I guess imitation IS the sincerest form of flattery, but come on. . . I at least fold clothes when I am watching tv!!!!!

Abby . . . Whatever you choose to do in life, I hope you do it with as much humor, strength and resolve as you have in your life right now. The sky is the limit for you little one, I hope you dream as big as you want to !

I WANT TO BE JUST LIKE MY BIG SISTER

2008-04-25T21:17:00.000-05:00

We played out back the other night and Greg and I both took time working with Abby and her t-ball skills. While Abby and Greg were playing catch, Mia decided she wanted to have a go at hitting off the T. She would hit the ball and then take off running the "bases", just like Abby. It was hilarious. She really does want to be just like Abby. She loves her big sister. . . most days. . .and loves to do the same things. She asks me all the time how old does she need to be to play t-ball or go to dance or ride a bike. They fight like cats and dogs but they wouldnt know what to do without each other. I wonder how this third little girl will fit in with Abby and Mia's world. It will be interesting to see. Mia, you are a delight to watch. Thanks for making your daddy and me laugh!

Abby and the Arvest Blue Jays

2008-04-13T23:13:00.001-05:00

Abby has started spring t-ball this year. Yeah, our first team sport. She plays for the Arvest Blue Jays. Saturday was our first game of the season. The kids did great, especially since most of our practices got rained out. It really was lots of fun to watch the kids try and figure it all out. This league does not keep score or count outs and each kid gets a bat every inning. It is all about teaching the fundamentals. We have a long but fun way to go. Hats off to our coaches who take the time with these kids. Handling that many five year olds is quite a challenge.

Abby was all ready to go in her uniform. Could she be any cuter!!!!

Up for her first bat. Yes, her batting helmet and her bat are pink. She picked them out. She looks like the Elle Woods of the t-ball league. (Legally Blonde)

Her first swing and she has a hit. Off to first base which was manned by a friend from school. You should have seen the little grin she gave him when she got to the base. No competition here....whatever.
Abby on third. Bless her little heart, it was so cold. She is asking the coach if she can get her coat from me after she scores.
Abby is the middle child in the picture. First time to take the field. It was a little confusing but she did great.

GO ABBY. . . GO ARVEST BLUE JAYS

MIA

2008-04-13T22:46:00.001-05:00

I have posted a lot about Abby lately, namely because it was her birthday and because she has had a lot of firsts this month. I do have a few pics of Mia that have made us laugh. She is definitely growing up fast. She makes us laugh and pull out our hair all in the same minute. I love to hear her talk about "our baby" and when she says her name, "Paige Alan" I could about cry. The other day she was looking at all the ultrasound pictures and was describing the pictures to me. "Here is the head, her back, her foot. . etc." It was precious and I know that she will be a great middle child who loves both her sisters very much. So much will change for her this year. Abby will be off to school five days a week and a new baby will be moving into Mia's old room. It does make me sad sometimes, I just dont want her left out. Mia, however, will never let herself be left out. She asserts herself without any problem. I do love her and her personality.

Mia got mad at us for something the other day, honestly none of us could figure out what we had done. She headed to her room and closed the door. I found her in her chair and she informed me she was reading her Bible. Notice the little pout on her face. At least she went to her Bible for some comfort.
Mia came in to the kitchen all ready for bed in this pic. We love the pjs and the headband is the best part of the outfit. Honestly, the pictures do not do it any justice. I kept trying to get her to let me take a picture, but she would not look up at me. Finally after some bribing, I got her to. I love the hands clasped to her chest. Mia, you never fail to make me and daddy laugh. You have your own style, your own timing and definitely your own sense of humor. You can defy me with a look one minute, run off and hide when I call you the next and then curl up next to me with your NiNi and warm my heart. You still let me and daddy hold you when you have woken up from sleep. You are our baby still in so many ways but are growing into this little girl so quickly. I can hardly believe that you will be three this summer. Thank you for what you bring to our family and thank you God that you let her be a part of our family. She is priceless!

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THE TOOTH FAIRY

2008-04-13T22:31:00.001-05:00

Sunday March 30th, Abby lost her first tooth. Daddy and Abby went into the bathroom and about five minutes later she came out and showed me the tooth. She did not cry at all. I am so proud of her and of Greg. He is much braver than me. The whole idea of pulling out something that is attached to bone and gums about makes me sick. Greg had a great moment as a father. Abby was a champ! We found my old tooth fairy pillow and attached a little envelope to it and put it by her pillow for the tooth fairy to come. She could not stop smiling or sticking her tongue into the hole and feeling it. She said it felt weird. Then there were several questions about what the tooth fairy actually does with the teeth she takes home. I had few ideas but Abby thinks that she makes them into stars. . . .saved by her imagination. After tucking her in, she fell asleep quickly and the next morning she came running into our room with her sweet grin and informed us the tooth fairy had come. She left Abby a note and two dollars. Another first for Abby... you sure are keeping us on our toes these days. We love you.

The puller and the patient.
All done and no tears!
Look mom, here is my tooth.
Waiting for the tooth fairy.

BOWLING WITH THE WHOLE FAMILY

2008-04-13T21:59:00.001-05:00

On Sunday we got together with the Thurman family and the Myers family to have a birthday bowling party for Abby. It has been a long time since we were all together. My girls are blessed beyond measure to have a family like ours. We always have a great time together. Bop was the winner of the games. My mom, Kristine, Julia and I think all the kids beat Greg. There was some intense competition. Both Aunt KK and Aunt JuJu sustained some minor injuries from the party, but have recovered nicely. . .DONT CROSS THE FOUL LINE!!! It was a good ending to Abby's birthday weekend.

JD and Megan made sure that ABBY was set with Webkinz. The elephant was named Horton after the movie we went and saw with them. Thanks JD and Megan.
MaMa, Grandaddy and Liz and Allison hooked Abby up with accessories for her American Girl doll that she got from us. Abby was all about the brush, clothes and ice skates.
Honey and PaPa got Abby the Barbie Mariposa movie she had been asking for.

Abby giving us her sweet smile at the bowling alley.
Dwight and Ma Ma discuss strategy. KK gets ready for a bowl and Julia looks like she is getting ready to warm up.
Abby watches as Liz helps Mia bowl. What would we do without the cousins!
Greg and Julia catch up. Abby requested that daddy wear his "Africa" shirt to bowl in. He actually got it in Jamaica. . . oh well.
Uncle Bop whips all of us. Not sure if he will be invited back. You know we are kidding BOP.

BOP

2008-04-13T21:43:00.001-05:00

BOP, this is a shout out to you!!!!

I think, well I know, that we have waited almost five years for this picture. For those of you who dont know, Bop (Jerod) is my brother in law, married to Brooke for almost three years now. They live in Illinois, so we dont see them that often. He has been around since before Abby was born. For at least the first three years of Abby's life, maybe a little longer, we could hardly get Abby to look at Bop. She was uncharicteristically shy around him and honestly if a three year old can have a crush on someone, she did on him. Anyway, she has come around slowly but surely. The icebreaker was when we told her that Bop could fix her broken Ken doll and she called him and asked him to fix it for her. He came down with some crazy glue and fixed him right up. Things have oblviously gotten better for the two. Mia has also been slow to hop on the Bop bandwagon, but she has not been as shy. Anyway, Bop and B came home for Abby's birthday party. This picture was taken after naptime. Mia had already planted herself on Bops lap and they had been snuggling for quite a while when Abby decided she needed to join them. I think it is one of my most favorite pics of the girls now. I think that baby Paige wont need anytime to get used to hanging out in Uncle Bop's lap. We love you Uncle Bop!!!
Uncle Bop and B drove nine hours to hang out with us for Abby's fifth birthday. We sure do love them.

HANNAH MONTANA BIRTHDAY

2008-04-13T21:17:00.000-05:00

Abby turned 5 this year. It is truly amazing how quickly this birthday has come and gone. It is such a milestone for her and for us. Five means kindergarten, five days a week, new experiences, new influences. Our days of two day a week school and the freedom to do what we want to most days are coming to an end. But the excitement of school and Abby's new experiences are just beginning and we look forward in anticipation to the adventure! Back to the birthday.

Abby had been asking since about November, which is when Anna turned five, for a Hannah Montana birthday. Well you know that we obliged! We really had a good time getting it ready for her. We cleaned out the upstairs playroom, made a backdrop, borrowed the McCredy's stage, Elizabeth and Allison's karaoke machine and got ready to party. She had five of her friends over to celebrate. Anna, Claire, Jessica, Caroline and Lauren. I am telling you we had a great time. The girls made rock start leather bracelets with Aunt KK and Aunt B and then we headed upstairs for some singing and dancing. Rebecca had given me the great idea of having blow up guitars for them and the girls loved them. It was crazy but oooooh so worth it. Abby had a great time.

Abby is getting the mic ready for her debut. She was so excited to see the stage and the decorations. Of course Hannah Montana and High School Musical were at the top of the playlist!

The girls took a break from the partying to have some cake. Abby insisted on chocolate cake and chocolate ice cream. I love that about her.

Claire, Abby, Becca and Mia are rocking out. Abby has on a birthday necklace that she got while in Florida. I cannot believe that she remembered to put it on.

PUMPING UP THE PARTY NOW!!!!!

Opening presents. I love this pic because since Abby's first birthday Anna has been right next to her opening her presents with her. I serioulsy have five years of at least one picture just like this. Anna, I hope you are there for many many more. HAPPY BIRTHDAY ABBY

ABBY'S WORDS

2008-04-06T21:50:00.000-05:00

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I am going a little out of order today because I dont have all my pictures up yet but I had to write about a few things that the Abby has done lately. The other day she and I were having a talk about private parts. . . there is a longer story, but we wont get into it. Anyway, I mentioned that girl's "chests" are also considered private and she looked at me and said as serioulsy as she could "mom, no they aren't, boobs dont poop or pee." I about rolled out of her bed and later could not stop laughing at her logic. Ah, the things they will say. Then today we were talking to her about getting a dog or rather the fact that we did not have one. I told her that some day we would absolutely have a dog and she looked at me and said no we wont mom. I said Abby why do you think that and she said because I just know, I have visions. Greg and I looked at each other and could not stop laughing at her. I think we have probably watched enough "That's so raven" for now.
Anyway, she just gets me tickled and when I share these little stories with my mom, she says you need to write them down. So I guess I have for all the world to see. Sorry Abby:)

IT'S ANOTHER THURMAN GIRL

2008-03-26T00:29:00.000-05:00

Well at least I wont have to change the name of the blog! I had my ultrasound yesterday and we discovered that there was another Thurman girl on the way. We, okay more me, were a little surprised (I really thought it would be a boy) but happy that she appears healthy and strong. We got a big kick out of watching her on the screen. I know that Abby and Mia were not as active in their big debut as this one was. She moved nonstop. Paige Alan Thurman will be here before we know it. I am thankful for God's plans in our life. I know that Abby was meant to be the oldest of three, Mia the middle child and Paige the youngest. They are our daughters and I am overwhelmed that I am chosen to be their mom. Parenting them can be such a daunting task and I get so overwhelmed some times because all I want in the end is for them to be Godly women when they grow up. So Abby, Mia and Paige know that my hearts desire is to train you up in God's ways, to enjoy your childhood and love you with all my heart. Here's to the Thurman three!!

I'M BACK

2008-03-25T23:51:00.001-05:00

I think the last time I wrote was just after Thanksgiving. I realize that has been over three months, almost four. Shortly after my last post we had a bit of a surprise. . . in that we found out I was pregnant with baby number three. Shortly after that baby number three decided I ought to find out what morning sickness is like since I did not have that wonderful experience with Abby or Mia. That being said I spent the rest of December and most of January on my couch or in bed and puking at all hours of the day. I am not quite sure how we survived, I still have much guilt that Abby and Mia will remember the things they have seen (mommy on all fours puking on the laundry room floor) and my lack of patience and will have to have much therapy to recover. People say kids are resilient. . . I sure hope so.

I dont remember much of Christmas, I think the girls liked their presents. I do know I will never ever cook that particular pork tenderloin again! We had to cancel our big family trip to Florida over Christmas but were able to reschedule that trip with just our four in February.

Disney is always fun and the girls have a blast. I will, however, not spend ten days in a motel room with the four of us for quite a while. Who needs bedtime when you are on vacation. . . HA HA HA. Mia loved riding the carousel and Abby loved the Peter Pan ride and Soaring. We were able to eat dinner in Cinderella's Castle, which was fantastic. I think Greg and I loved that the most. The weather was just what we needed, sunny and warm. We were able to swim several days and Greg and Abby played some golf. Abby loves to be out there with her dad. We also got to take the girls over to Cocoa Beach and play for a while. The girls loved chasing the sea gulls and collecting shells. I love Florida in the winter!

Easter was the next big event for us and we had a great time. We headed to the Fort for our annual Easter doings at my parents. The girls wore dresses that my mother made for me and Katie when we were their age. The could not have looked cuter. We hunted more eggs than I can count. In fact my kitchen counter currently looks like the Easter Bunny's factory. I know none of us need that much candy but just dont know what to do with it. Any suggestions? Ha.

Well that catches you up for now. Girls, when you read this some day know that while there may be some gaps in this blog it does not mean that there are any gaps in the wonderful experiences that I have with you. Abby, in this span of time you have gotten your first loose tooth and we are waiting for that sucker to come out. Mia, you gave up your BoBo and have not stopped talking since. We said goodbye to Max, the sweetest dog in the world, who from the very first night you were at Honey's house always slept right outside your door to protect you. He was precious. Things are changing in our life quickly, but I am trying to stop and smell the roses with you two. I love you. MOM

FAMILY PICTURES 2007

2007-12-03T00:12:00.000-06:00

Not a bad looking family, if I do say so myself.

MYERS FAMILY THANKSGIVING

2007-12-02T23:43:00.000-06:00

We celebrated Thanksgiving down at my parents in Fort Smith. Mom, Dad, Katie, Brooke and Jerod were there and Grandma and Grandpa, Ginger, Kevin and Eli joined us for dinner. We had a wonderful time. It is always good to catch up with Family. I want Abby and Mia to love family gatherings as much as Greg and I do. At our Thanksgiving we go around and tell what we are thankful for. Abby participated for the first time and said me and Honey and her daddy. It was precious. Mia, on the other hand was pouting in my arms because she had just been spanked for spitting on Aunt KK's face. Nice Mia, Happy Thanksgiving to you to.

Abby and Mia love love love being at Honeys. It is even better when the Aunts are there because they get undivided attention 24/7. They hardly speak to Greg or me, we pretty much have to reintroduce ourselves as their parents after a visit. That being said, we had a couple of first this year. Abby and Eli became fast friends. It was fun for abby to have a playmate for the day that could really do what four/five year olds do. They ran all over the house, did a craft that Honey provided and played out in the leaves. They wore themselves out and were sad when Eli had to go.

The other BIG first was that Abby actually crawled up in Bop's lap on several occassions and let him read her a book and just hang out. Now for those of you who dont understand the significance of this, let me give you some history. Bop is Brooke's husband Jerod and he has been around since Abby was very little. However, until about a year ago, Abby could hardly look at him let alone sit in his lap. I personally think that she had a little crush on him and was just too shy to look at him. Anyway, last year Bop brought some glue to fix one of Abby's barbies and the ice broke. However, she has never just up and sat on his lap or even hugged him. I walked into the room that night and low and behold the two of them were in the chair and Bop was reading a book to her. Even bigger, that was not the first time that day that she had done that. Way to go Bop. We knew all along that Abby loved you, thanks for waiting her out. You are a great Uncle and we are so thankful for you.

I am thankful for all of my family. My parents, Grandparents, Sisters, cousins, Brother-in-law, husband and kids. I take them all for granted too much. Abby and Mia, I hope you will know the joy of family coming together to fellowship and celebrate holidays your whole sweet lives.

SUPPER CLUB CHRISTMAS

2007-12-02T23:30:00.001-06:00

Our supper club decided to have a family affair and attend the Lighting of the Fayetteville Square on the 17th. We have been eating together once a month (give or take) since Spring of 2000. When we started there were only two kids, now there are 13. 9 of them made it to the lighting (Fr. row Sydney, Mia, Abby and Ben. B. row Jack, Will, Matt, Baileigh and Drew). The kids have a great time together. Abby follows Sydney around like a puppy dog. Mia, well, she just enjoys not having Abby's full attention.
The lights were beautiful and a perfect beginning to the holiday season.

LEAVES

2007-12-02T23:16:00.000-06:00

We played one friday at Kari's house and you would have thought it was Christmas the way the girls reacted to the leaves in the yard. I could hardly get them out of there. I look at these pictures though and I smile because this is childhood. This is one of those experiences every kid should have (and hopefully have more than once). They loved running and jumping in the leaves, throwing them at each other and hiding in them. Abby's allergies flared up within minutes, but she did not care. Not a care in the world, just two little blonde sisters enjoying fall. It doesn't get any better than that.

LUNCH AND LIPSTICK

2007-12-02T23:12:00.000-06:00

After the program, Abby and I went to Red Robin for lunch, HER FAVORITE. She loves to go up to the bar all on her own and order a milkshake. Of course, I let her and watched her from the place we were sitting. She was so sure of herself and would look over every once in a while and just smile at me as if to say, "I have it covered mom, dont worry". We then took off to do some Christmas shopping. At TJ Maxx she decided she needed some lipstick and insisted she apply it herself; of course. You can see what a fabulous job she did. She looked in the mirror, pronounced it perfect and looked like that until bath time that night. She can make me laugh so hard some times.

Abby, you never cease to amaze me. You are smart, funny, self assured, compassionate and mischevious. I love being with you, holding your hand, listening to your stories and enjoying your company. Thank you for all the joy you bring. I Love you.

THANKSGIVING AT CREATIVE SCHOOL

2007-12-02T22:39:00.000-06:00

Abby had her first ever school program November 15th at her school. The invitations they made for the program were turkeys made from their handprint and painted by them. It was adorable. For once I was on time to something and was able to get a front row seat to watch her. I was totally one of "those" parents, waving at her, telling her to look at the teacher, taking pictures, motioning for her to get her shirt sleeve out of her mouth. I feel sorry for the people around me. Ha. Anyway, the kids came in and sang about 5 or 6 songs. My favorite was Albequrque is my Turkey. The kids couldnt quite prononouce Albequerque but it was too cute. They also did a little jazz retelling of Goldilocks and the three bears. Abby was awesome. She is growing up so fast and I marvel at the person she is becoming.

SILVER DOLLAR CITY - HOLIDAY STYLE

2007-11-19T15:10:00.001-06:00

We went with the Harts to Branson last weekend to see the lights at Silver Dollar City. Abby, Mia and Claire have a great time hanging out together. The tent was our attempt to get them to take a nap while they were watching a movie.

As you can see from the unhappy faces in the other picture, they did not get the nap. For the life of me I cannot figure out what these two are unhappy about. I get tickled every time I see the picture. We rode lots of rides. Mike rode the most with these two. He took them on the pirate ship, the tea cups and the haunted house. Greg and Mike rode this spinny thingy ride that about made me sick watching them. They also rode the giant barn swing and about made me and Lisa cry we were laughing so hard. They looked like they were going to cry they were so scared. Even the kids thought there was something wrong with them.

Mia finally rode the ladybug by herself. The last time she rode this she screamed and cried the whole time. Later that night we let the girls decorate cookies. Mia loved the icing, which is no big surprise.

:ater we watched the Christmas tree light up while we sipped very very hot chocolate. It was a great night to get us in the holiday spirit!!

ABBY THE FASHONISTA

2007-11-05T23:34:00.000-06:00

Abby's lifelong friend had her fifth birthday this weekend. It was a Fashionista birthday complete with stylist, accessories and a catwalk. This was so up Abby's ally. It took us about an hour to decide what we were going to wear. Abby, of course, wants to dress to impress. Anna's mom, Rebecca, knows how to throw a party. There was a place for the girls hair to get done, makeup applied, nails painted and jewelry put on. Abby walked in and headed to get made up. I am not real sure she talked to me the rest of the night. She was too busy getting gussied up and running around with her friends. Isnt that how life for a four year old is supposed to be!After all the girls were appropriately accessorized, the fashion show began, mc'd by Anna's daddy, Larry. Each girl was introduced and then did their thing down the runway. They loved it!!!!! I think Abby came down the runway about ten times. Needless to say it was a great party and Abby did not want to leave nor did she want her blue eyeshadow washed off that night. Another great adventure in Abby's little life. Thanks for letting me be along for the ride Abby, I sure love it!

MIA

2007-11-05T23:18:00.000-06:00

Second children are just different in more ways than I could have ever imagined. Greg and I get so tickled sometimes at Mia's stubborness (it can exasperate me beyond words as well). This is one of those "tickled" times. Greg and I told Mia it was time for nap on Sunday afternoon. She told us no it was not time. We were in her room and she took off running from us determined not to take the nap. She decided to hide from Greg so she got behind the couch where she often likes to hide. This time though she thought she would fool us. She layed down on the floor and hid her head under the couch. I wish I could have been in her head as she thought that one through. "Ha, they will never see me with my head hidden!" Never mind the rest of the body stretched out on the floor for us to see. Needless to say, Greg and I could not stop laughing. Mia, you bring such delight to us.

HALLOWEEN

2007-11-05T22:40:00.000-06:00

We had such a great Halloween this year. The girls could not have been more adorable and we had so much fun having pizza with our friends and then taking the kids out for a night of fun in the neighborhood. The Youngs, Smiths, Harts, Nantzes and us all joined up for pizza at the Smith house. The kids love being together and the adults always like the time to visit and not have to worry about their kids. Honey joined us for the night as well. After stuffing ourselves on pizza and salad, we got the kids together and costumed them up and headed out for the night. We had an angel, snow white, winnie the pooh, Jo Jo the clown, nemo, buzz lightyear, a monkey and two firemen rounding out the group. Two wagons, two strollers, a bunch of kids, plenty of group pictures and a few adults later we headed out to gather candy from strangers.

Abby and Claire led the pack. I was amazed looking at her at how big she had become. I didn't have to hold her hand or walk right next to her, she just did it all by herself. Everytime Abby and Claire got candy they came running back to Honey so she could shine the flashlight into their buckets and see how much loot they had recieved. Honey enjoyed every minute of it.

Mia was hilarious. What a change from a one year old in a stroller to a two year old who realizes what Halloween is all about. CANDY. Mia was all about grabbing her bucket and walking up to the door and saying "trick or treat". It did take some coaching to say thank you after she got the candy, but eventually she got that down. I think the hilight for Mia was when she got a tootsie roll pop and was allowed to eat it and trick or treat. Her costume still has sucker slobber on it and we had to do some serious washing of the hands and face when it was all said and done.

We are so blessed to have such wonderful neighbors. Walking behind my friends, watching our kids play and laugh together, parents watching over other kids, I was just thankful to God for what he had provided for us at this time.

After some great trick or treating in the neighborhood we headed up to Grandma and Grandaddy's home to scare up some treats there. The girls rounded out their festivities with pudding from Grandma. What a perfect night.

Girls, wherever we are we are always going to have fun. I love you and so enjoy watching you experience life. Thank you!

CREATIVE SCHOOL HALLOWEEN PARTY

2007-11-05T22:25:00.000-06:00

Tuesday, October 30th, was Abby's class Halloween party. After many weeks of discussion, she finally decided the night before the party to be an angel. Luckily, I had all we needed to make that costume a reality. She could not have looked cuter. I am telling you that I love having a blonde hair, blue eyed girl. She rocks. Anyway, we got all dolled up and were off to school where we took part in the school parade, trunk or treating in the parking lot and games and snack in the playroom. What a great day! Abby was not pleased with me for missing the party last year, so I was there this time with bells on. I love to watch her in a different environment with other kids. She has so much fun at school and loves playing with the other kids. It is so hard to believe that she will be starting kindergarten next year. She looks so old already and is so smart. Anyway, we had a great day celebrating and I would not have missed it for the world! I love you Abby the angel!!!!!

Hanging with JD

2007-11-05T22:11:00.000-06:00

Big Man, or J.D. as he is otherwise known, played with the girls today. Abby and Mia love him. Bless his heart, he is the only male cousin we have and they think he hung the moon. Abby and J.D. are the closest in age of all the cousins and they are so much fun to watch. They had a great time playing outside. Mia showed us that she can ride her trike, a surprise to all of us. We always love to spend time with the cousins!

So This is Love

2007-11-05T22:05:00.000-06:00

Mia is all about the disney princesses right now. She LOVES Cinderella and asks to dress up in Abby's cinderella costume about three times a day. Sometimes you can find her playing with disney princess characters and humming the song from Cinderella, "so this is Love". It cracks us up and reminds us of when Abby fell in love with Cinderella at about the same age. Abby would go around saying "bibbity bobbity boo" to everything. Anyway, the other night Mia got all dressed up in her costume and insisted that Daddy dance with her to "So this is Love". It was precious. Greg said later he would love to learn the song and sing it to her at her wedding some day. How sweet is that. Can you imagine what Mia will think when we see the princesses at Disney this Christmas. That is going to be great. Mia and Abby, I love that you love the same movies I grew up with. I loved those movies when I was young, but I think I love them more now watching you guys dance and sing to them. You are the cutest princesses I know.

PUMPKIN PATCH

2007-10-12T23:54:00.000-05:00

Today we went to a pumpkin patch with some of our neighbor friends. It was a beautiful day and the kids had a great time picking out pumpkins. Abby found lots of pumpkins to take home and "helped out" with the younger kids. I love to watch her with her friends. They make up games and run around and just have the best time. I love the picture of Abby and Claire. Those two are peas in a pod. Mia took a while to warm up to things. Notice the only group picture she is in, she is crying. She finally realized that she could get a pumpkin and set her mind to picking the right one. We had a picnic, the kids lounged in the sun and then decorated cupcakes made by our friend Caleb and his mom Michelle. I love the fall. It was a good day with the girls!

FRIENDS

2007-10-12T23:41:00.000-05:00

Yesterday our friends Anna and Cade came over. We have known them since birth. Abby and Anna are into playing dress up, house and driving the barbie jeep. What I have enjoyed watching is Mia and Cade. They are hilarious. They love to go hide in her bedroom and read books. We love Anna and Cade

RAZORBACK FANS

2007-10-12T23:30:00.000-05:00

Greg and I took the girls to the Razorback game a couple of weeks ago against North Texas. Can I just say that they are the cutest kids I know in Razorback cheerleading outfits. When we walked into the stadium Mia turned and looked at us and said, "oh, cool." Greg and I could not believe it. She loved the whole thing, the food, the band, the atmosphere. . .all of it. Abby on the other hand was most disapointed that we had left our tailgate party with her cousins. She finally got into it and started to call the Hogs with the rest of us. WOOOO PIG SOOIE.

2007-10-12T13:50:00.000-05:00

I love my girls. I love my life with my girls. I love my life with their daddy. God has blessed me more than I ever deserve! This blog is about our life, the silly things these girls do and how Greg and I are the luckiest parents on earth! Girls, your daddy and I love you. Maybe one day you will read this and realize just how much!