Smith: Party of 5

Life lessons from the deercamp

2011-02-12T08:15:00.013-06:00

Finally, my boys got to do something that I've always wanted them to do.....go hunting with their Papa. Spending the night at the deer camp, playing around the bonfire with cousins and other little hunters, early morning breakfast in the kitchen, suiting up in new camouflage, loading up on Papa's four wheeler, riding in the dark to a stand, patiently awaiting a deer sighting, lunch back at the kitchen, skipping naptime, learning all about guns from the pro, shooting a REAL gun at the rifle range.....everything was awesome in the eyes of these 2 little boys. I am truly thankful that they were able to spend this time with their grandfather, who happens to be one of the most knowledgeable around on hunting. And Brandon got to tag along as well. Part of me wishes that he had a love of the woods, but then a much larger part of me is thankful that he doesn't. While I can attend sporting events with him, I have no desire to join him in the woods.

Thankful for grandparents of these little boys and opportunities to teach them about life - whether fishing in Texas or on a deer stand in Mississippi.....

Snow, snow and more snow....

2011-02-12T08:00:00.008-06:00

I guess I'm just a procrastinator when it comes to this blog.....I was surprised to find that my last post was in December. January just flew by and we are just around the corner from Valentine's Day.....and more importantly in the Smith household, Sharpe's birthday (Feb 16).

January was filled with snow, snow days, snowmen, snow angels, snowball fights, and of course, hot chocolate. Somehow once again, we were without a sled.....time to improvise. I think we used everything from garbage can lids, to boxes, to a baby swimming pool. The boys loved the snow. I on the other hand enjoyed the snow from inside, sitting by the fire, with a cup of coffee in hand. I guess I've outgrown the love of playing in the snow; however, I did get out in it with the boys.....Oh, did I mention that I'm the only family member who didn't have "snow clothes". Thank goodness the boys got some warm, waterproof clothes for hunting with Papa! I'll have to write about that experience in a separate post. For now, enjoy the snow pictures....

Thankful for the beauty of the snow.....and for 3 little boys who absolutely love the snow - okay maybe just 2 of the 3 for now

Potato Soup Fiasco

2010-12-29T19:16:00.004-06:00

Oh, Lord. Please give this Momma some extra patience.....Just another typical adventure in parenting courtesy of the Smith family.....

Spent 2 hours making homemade potato soup for Trey and Tracy (next door neighbors) who recently had a baby. Almost done, putting everything on my new "serving" tray that I just HAD to have. All loaded - soup (a lot of soup), crackers tied with a bow, warm brownies, and a baby gift.... I ran to change Slay's diaper before we walked next door. From the kitchen, I hear a shriek - "Mommaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!" This is no ordinary call. I leave Slay on the changing table and leap to the kitchen to find the soup spilt all over the floor, Sharpe balancing what's left of the soup, crackers, and gift on the tray.

/sigh. I totally lost my cool. Sharpe was mortified. I had no idea what I was going to feed my sweet neighbors who were waiting on supper. Luckily, I had a little extra soup in the fridge that sufficed. Talk about clean up. It was inside and outside of the cabinets - everywhere. I called in the "lickitup" team ~ consisting of Frasier, Buckley and Baby. I must say they did a pretty good job. After the dust settled, I went in to talk to Sharpe. Behind more tears, he offered the following... "I was gonna bring the tray to you." It was pitiful. How could I be mad anymore?

Parenting is so much about forgiveness. I know my parents showed much forgiveness over the years of raising me. And my Heavenly Father has forgiven me time and time again. I think God gave me children to better understand my own parents, but more importantly to (hopefully) better understand the Him. Oooh, I have a long way to go....

Thank you for children and for the opportunity to show forgiveness to them as you have shown it to me....

One down, Two to Go

2010-12-26T16:07:00.002-06:00

Oh, what a beautiful day..... and I'm not necessarily talking about the snow....I'm talking about watching my precious Stratton making a public profession of faith for Jesus. I had the highest privilege as a parent, to lead him to Jesus on Thursday, December 16th, while Brandon was at Praise Team practice. We went to talk to Bro. David Bodenheimer on Monday, December 20th and he walked the isle with his Daddy this morning. To stand for Jesus with my sweet family was the most wonderful feeling in the world. While I know I'm not much of an example, my own faith has been renewed with MY new responsibilities to continue to water the seed planted during this Christmas season. I pray for my own discipline this year - to spend time studying God's word, so I can be a light not only for my family, but also for this dark world.

This discussion was jumpstarted again in the midst of the death of John Hester - a sweet, faithful neighbor, who passed away on December 11th after a year long battle with cancer. His prayer while on this earth and certainly as he faced death, was to give the Father the glory in all situations and to encourage others to come to know Jesus. If only Mr. John were here, I think he'd be smiling ear to ear. Thank you, John, for being a good and faithful servant.

Thank you Father for Your grace and most of all Your Son~

Christmas Morn

2010-12-25T11:23:00.003-06:00

Day 1 - Well, Christmas morning proved to be everything and more! Santa arrived during the night and provided lots of cool toys! God arrived in EVEN bigger style - providing a white Christmas (first time in my 38 years). Oh, did I mention, God provided a KING?

Santa brought Slay - ride on toys (x2), books, a guitar, and his favorite - candy! Nana Clause delivered a new, really cool bicycle for Slay that looks like a motorcycle! Move outta the way, friends!

Sharpe was super pumped to open a new Bama hat, a Phitin (that's WAY too big), a new bicycle amongst other goodies! Nana Clause sent a new electric scooter!

Stratton was most disappointed with his gifts - as he SO wanted a PSP. He was sweet in his disappointment and later found it in a "special" stocking......that kid showed some "vert" as he leaped with excitement.

And in the midst of all THAT excitement, the biggest gift was yet to be "unveiled".....a new set of REAL drums! Holy smoke! Sharpe and Slay were really excited and ran to start playing. Stratton was only somewhat interested as he reached back for the PSP. Then, there's Brandon.....let's just say, he regressed back to a K-I-D!

Momma got some awesome gifts - a new, high dolla, flash for my camera, new necklace and earrings, as well as new (replacement) coasters, a coffee mug and the most important gift....her new cowboy boots (dark brown). Love them! Then upstairs the boys went with their Daddy. No clue what they were up to....Bout 5 minutes later, I spot Stratton sitting on the couch (so cool) playing his PSP and WEARING COWBOY BOOTS....ladies cowboy boots! Momma got a 2nd pair of brown boots! Awesome! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Gigi is spending Christmas with us and enjoying the chaos....we think! She made pumpkin pie to the sound of drums this morning and danced joyfully! Grumps and Doll visited for Slay's "official" birthday party yesterday! Always a special time - Christmas Eve!

We continue to be blessed and I am so often "ungrateful" just for the simple blessings in our life - the Father's love, His Son, family, friends, hounds, and my kids' love for the drums! Thank you, Father for ears to ear those drums and for eyes to see the fallen snow that you have so graciously provided this morning....

With a (more) grateful heart today,

2010-12-24T23:11:00.001-06:00

/sigh....Intentions

2010-12-24T23:04:00.004-06:00

And, yes, another year has passed...well, almost and without ONE SINGLE post to this blog /sigh. Each time I log into facebook, I see the icon for the blog and shrug and say, I only have a minute or two, so maybe next time. As with procrastination, I have some regrets. I knew when I started fb that something was gonna give.....and unfortunately it was my blog.

So much has happened in the past year - from new employment/career for Brandon, to surviving a layoff for my own career, to Stratton starting 1st grade, to a new school (Pre-K) for Sharpe and Slay is just plain growing up! While my heart is overflowing, there is only so much time during the day, so while (once again) my intentions are good to update, I make no promises.

In the meantime, Merry Christmas! And Happy Birthday, Slaybird!

Holy Smoke! What happened?

2010-01-02T15:47:00.002-06:00

Like I said when I started this blog, "I would update it as our lives would allow".....well, I'm not exactly sure what happened, but it all went south in May 2009. There has been so much that has happened since then, that if I tried to go back and post each event, I would surely never get caught up. So, what I have decided to do is to post some of my favorite pics (and comments) from May 2009 until December 2009 and (like the other 200 million folks) make a New Year's GOAL, to do a better job keeping our blog up to date. (Brandon is laughing because he doesn't make NY Goals - told you I married a smart guy) This blog really is special to me - especially since the main reasons I started it was the birth of our "caboose", Slay and to keep the grandparents, extended family and friends up to date on the other 2 Smith boys, so here goes my attempt at an update....

2009-05-15T13:19:00.003-05:00

2009-05-15T13:08:00.002-05:00

This is a test run, folks. Gimme a few rounds to work out the kinks. Thanks.

The End of Pre-K

2009-05-03T06:19:00.005-05:00

Yes it's here...the end of Stratton's first year at Bramlett. It has been a wonderful year...mostly due to his awesome teachers (Kerri Case and Ms. Briscoe). Stratton is a strong reader, sloppy writer (boys) and loves math - thanks to Dad.... Now if we could only keep him this motivated until he graduates college! Here's a snapshot of his class and the latest handwriting.....The final picture is something he drew yesterday while we were all cooped up inside due to the rain.... If you can't see the labels (from left to right - Slay, Sharpe, Stratton, Momma and Daddy with the super long legs.....)

Little Artists

2009-05-03T06:09:00.008-05:00

I'm always so amazed at the my little guys' artwork! When I asked Stratton to tell me about his picture, he pointed out that the green box in the middle was "one BILLION dollars".....Thanks Obama for making my 5 year old numb to the "B" word.... The second piece is the life cycle of a butterfly using pasta....who in the world thinks of these projects? And the final piece is one of the first Bible verses that Sharpe learned.....I think his version was God made the cows...Genesis 1:27. The other verse he learned that week was "God made the flowers. Genesis 1:11." Oh, how he warms my heart quoting scripture!

Yep, another birthday party

2009-05-02T19:27:00.005-05:00

It's Friday afternoon, where are you? If you are part of the Smith crew, you might very well be at a birthday party at the Skate Place. We all had a great time (despite the photo of Sharpe crying) even Momma. I got to rollerskate for the first time in years.....only one bruise!

TBall

2009-05-02T19:13:00.025-05:00

This is Stratton's first year to play t-ball. Here are some action shots from his first and second practice. And, yes, everyone had to go to his first practice.....It was a three ring circus - minus the elephants. Slay actually napped briefly, which allowed me to play catch with Sharpe. We have our first game Monday.....now if I can only find a Royals hat that actually fits him!

New Bike

2009-05-02T19:10:00.004-05:00

Stratton recently got a new bike....but here's the deal...he had to save and pay for 1/2 of the bike by doing chores/commission (no such thing as allowance at our house). He is so proud of it!

Playing in the Rain

2009-05-02T19:08:00.004-05:00

100% little boy.....

Absolutely Beautiful

2009-05-02T19:01:00.007-05:00

This was the very brief view outside our house recently. In my 30+ years, I have never seen a complete rainbow. This one was perfect and in my amazement, I almost missed the picture. God is truly amazing.....

Trip to see Gigi & Grumps

2009-05-02T18:50:00.012-05:00

The boys spent a whole week in Texas with Gigi and Grumps. We actually pass them off in Shreveport, so that's where most of these photos were taken! This breaks up the long trip and gave G & G a chance to love on Baby Slay. He even tried a milkshake....but's wasn't sure about that taste. However, Stratton and Sharpe were very sure of the taste but mean ol' Momma made them share a milkshake. The boys got to ride the trolly - which may have been the highlight of the trip! Stratton also got some "granfatherly advice" from Grumps. (no idea what that discussion was all about, but the photos look intense) While in Texas, they went to an INDOOR water park, the "jump place" and even went fishing.....(check back to see photos of Stratton's first fish!) They had a super fantastic time! Thanks Gigi & Grumps!

More Easter Photos

2009-05-02T18:48:00.005-05:00

The Fam @ Easter

2009-05-02T18:45:00.003-05:00

This is my brother's crew (Connor 4 and Austin 1). As you can imagine, it's lots of fun to get all the boys together (Stratton 5, Connor 4, Sharpe 3, Austin 1 and Slay 4 mo). Something is GONNA get torn up for sure!

Easter 2009

2009-05-02T17:24:00.011-05:00

As usual, another eventful holiday.....Boys loved hunting for eggs and REALLY loved finding eggs with money in them! The Easter Bunny brought Slay a Bumbo (seat to help him sit), Sharpe a 2-wheel scooter, and Stratton chocolate, a Connect 4 game and books to help him learn to write). Thanks Easter Bunny....bok, bok!

Dancin' Machine

2009-05-02T17:21:00.006-05:00

Play that funky music white boy.....

Slay's First Taste of Cereal

2009-05-02T17:16:00.005-05:00

Well, we're three for three on the cereal....none of 'em liked it the first time around....

Magic Shoes

2009-04-26T21:40:00.002-05:00

Not really, just a neat picture of Stratton's tennis shoes....He tied them all by himself this morning for the very first time.....neat huh? Wow, my little guy is growing up....

Hugs from Mrs. Kim

2009-04-26T21:39:00.002-05:00

How content I am when Mrs. Kim holds me....(love, Slay)

2009-04-26T21:35:00.007-05:00

Meet Mamma Bear....She was a gift for Baby Slay from a friend of mine, AJ DeFusco. However, when Sharpe saw it, it quickly passed down his bear (which was a little smaller than Mamma Bear and also a gift from AJ) to Baby Slay and took over Mamma Bear. I have often said how precious the sight to see Sharpe either toting or dragging Mamma Bear into the kitchen in the mornings....I just happened to have my camera ready this morning.....and the photos....priceless!

2009-04-26T21:33:00.004-05:00

Never a dull moment at our house....Can you tell which one is Mr. Personality? Yep, Slay. Just kidding, it's my middle child, Sharpe!

Daddy and Baby Slay

2009-04-26T21:30:00.004-05:00

I'm a sucker for seeing Brandon hold and love on Slay (ever so gently). This time is flying by and I'm trying to capture as many memories (and photos) as I can. (sniff, sniff, tear, tear)

My Bama Boys

2009-04-26T21:28:00.005-05:00

RTR was the cry of our boys today as we took Slay to his FIRST Bama game....of course Ole Miss put a "whoopin" on Bama today, but nevertheless, it was a fun afternoon for the boys.... any afternoon that includes ice cream is fun.....

A typical Sunday afternoon

2009-04-26T21:24:00.002-05:00

This usually involves several hours on a bicycle! I was able to get him to stop long enough to take a picture with dear ol' Dad....stay tuned for an update on the bicycle.......someone got a new ride!

Slay's First Day of School

2009-04-26T21:06:00.004-05:00

And NO I didn't cry....only because we absolutely LOVE his teachers .....especially Mrs. Mervat Ross. She kept Sharpe at FBC and Stratton in the NOBC nursery. Apparently, the daycare wasn't as quiet as our house while Slay was napping because that night he slept from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. He was pooped.......Big brothers were SO PROUD to finally be able to take Baby Slay to school with them.

Photos on the Square

2009-04-26T20:51:00.011-05:00

We got all dolled up for "professional" photos at TreeHouse Toys, but thought while the boys were dressed (and at least STARTED the day in a good mood), we would snap a few extra photos on the square. The two individual photos of Stratton and Sharpe are at the end of the "photo shoot". Their faces tell it all......

Learning to pop wheelies

2009-04-26T20:49:00.004-05:00

Oh so typical at our house..... tears included.

The King Pin

2009-04-26T20:47:00.002-05:00

Yes, another silly art project from school, but you have to admit, it's pretty cute. He and Sharpe argued over who was King, but Stratton had the crown, so he was king.....until Momma gave Sharpe the crown to wear......

Golf Outing

2009-04-26T20:41:00.007-05:00

What an hour! Brandon took Stratton, Sharpe and Matthew (our neighbor) to the driving range. Suprisingly, the boys did really well. Slay just watched, but it won't be long until he can reek havoc on the golf course, too!

Feet, feet and more feet

2009-04-26T20:40:00.001-05:00

Okay, so this photo didn't turn out exactly like the sample photo....but nevertheless, it serves the purpose for me.....and yes, their feet are clean!

NOBC Band Practice

2009-04-26T19:04:00.002-05:00

Yes, we even take the boys to Praise Team Practice....they love getting to run and jump and all while listening to worship music.

Book Reading

2009-04-26T19:02:00.003-05:00

We are so proud to have Mrs. Julie Cantrell as our next door neighbor. She is a great cook and a great writer. She recently published her first 2 books entitled, "God is With Me Through the Night" and "God is With Me Through the Day." She had a book signing March 7th here in Oxford at Peas and Carrots. As you can see, my boys were front and center!

Updated photos of Slay

2009-04-26T18:57:00.002-05:00

Can you tell who has gone back to work? Momma - the blogger in the Smith house. I am almost a month behind (as long as I've been back at work)! So I am going to post a bunch in hopes of getting caught up. Here are some more recent photos of tiny tot....of course he looks like he's on steroids in the Bama gitup!

Sleeping Slay

2009-03-02T20:47:00.002-06:00

And we wondered why Slay was so quiet..........

Snow 2009

2009-03-02T20:35:00.013-06:00

I made the comment Saturday night that I would love for it to snow so the boys could see it and play in it! Well, be careful what you wish for! Imagine my surprise when I woke up at 4 a.m. to see it snowing!

We couldn't wait to wake up the boys...but first, we had to dig out some cold weather clothes....of which we had little to choose from! The boys had a ball. I went out mostly just to snap some photos, but did take one ride down the hill with Stratton on a garbage can top....It was quite a sight! And this is our neighbor, Adam with Elle!

Sharpe wasn't much on riding down the hill, but did enjoy just walking around and being cute....until he fell.....

Latest Artwork

2009-03-02T20:33:00.004-06:00

Gotta love when kids are asked to fill in the blank.....Sharpe says sheeps eat pizza and Stratton notes that he wants to be a coach!

Bowling Birthday Party

2009-03-02T20:26:00.009-06:00

Another Saturday spent singing "Happy Birthday to you....". This time we went to the bowling alley. The boys have never been bowling, so this was an adventure. As usual, we had to "force" Stratton to play and Sharpe jumped right in! Fun fun!

Trip to See Nana & Papa

2009-03-02T20:12:00.016-06:00

Okay, I'm a bad daughter. It's been over 2 months since my parents have seen Slay, but we fixed that this past week with a trip to Vicksburg! I'm not sure who smiled more.....Slay or my Mom and Dad!

Slay also got to go on his first walk (see photo with Mom).

Slay got to meet his "Oma" (German for grandmother)

And Nana had her picture taken for the newspaper. Isn't she beautiful?

And then there's Pierre.....the poodle....

Slaybird Smiling....finally

2009-02-21T20:49:00.006-06:00

Slay is really beginning to smile and it is just heart warming. Brandon says he loves our babies for the first 8 weeks because he's supposed to....when they can smile at him, he REALLY loves them!

What Are You Looking For?

2009-02-18T15:56:00.002-06:00

"Shorts....Like Stwatton's"...... (Mom just sighs and finds a pair)

My Little Helper

2009-02-18T15:50:00.005-06:00

Guess I should have blogged this before the photos of our birthday party at our house.....and YES that is a photo of Sharpe LICKING the beater....Isn't that the best part of cooking? Anyone notice that after Sharpe and I made the cake batter.....well, Daddy came right behind us to make sure it was done correctly.......all in love.

One Piggy, Two Piggy, Three Piggy FOUR!

2009-02-18T15:41:00.010-06:00

These are additional photos from Sharpe's classroom at First Baptist Church where he is in daycare! He couldn't WAIT to show Daddy HIS piggy.....Also, if you haven't met my little Sharpe, the photo taken of him with his Daddy is VERY indicative of his personality.....wild man! Of course, Slay has his usual stare going on.....ANOTHER birthday party......ugh.....

Cake and Icecream...Round 2

2009-02-18T15:36:00.006-06:00

Sugar OVERLOOOOAAAAADDDD! These photos are from our cake and icecream at home to include our neighbors...Mr. Mark & Mrs. Cindy, Matthew and Devin. Mrs. Cindy got lots of "holdin' time" in while we all stuffed ourselves with cake!

Happy Birthday, Sharpe!

2009-02-17T19:43:00.011-06:00

A Whopping 3 years old!!! We celebrated Sharpe's birthday today with cupcakes at school along with a little cake and ice cream at home with friends.....AND we're having a "sho-nuff" birthday party in May when the grandparents are all here...complete with blow up jumper in the front yard! Gee, how many parties do we need? My sweet Sharpe was a little overwhelmed when his class at school sang "Happy Birthday". Here are a few snap shots from the school birthday party!

Who Needs a Jungle Gym?

2009-02-15T17:20:00.008-06:00

My boys LOVE to play with their Daddy! And their Daddy loves to play with them. This happens so often that I don't realize how crazy it seems! Just wait until we add the #3 kid to the mix! My money is still on Daddy!

Pretty as a Picture

2009-02-15T17:16:00.002-06:00

Yes, I know. I shouldn't call my boys pretty, but I can't help it! At this age, they have no idea that's not cool...so until he does....my Slay is "pretty as a picture"! Love, Momma

Oh my heavens!

2009-02-15T17:11:00.003-06:00

Sharpe comes strolling into my office yesterday and I just HAPPEN to notice that his ear looked like it was bleeding. Initially, my heart sank, but then he wasn't crying so I relaxed. I asked him why his ear was bleeding? He looked at me like I was crazy. It wasn't BLOOD.....it was STRAWBERRY JELLY! Another typical day at the Smith house!

Like a Good Lil' Daddy

2009-02-15T17:07:00.002-06:00

There could be whisky in that bottle for all I know! Okay, all you church going folks, I'm just kidding!

Stratton's Sweetie

2009-02-15T17:03:00.000-06:00

This Valentine says it all....Stratton is sweet on a little girl in his class (Addie) who HAPPENS to be the cousin of one of his buddies (Luke). Apparently, she wears bows in her hair on a regular basis. Check out what LOVERBOY made out of his hearts.....yep, a bow for Addie!

Guess Who's Turning 3!

2009-02-15T16:54:00.006-06:00

Finally, Sharpe is old enough to really KNOW that it's his birthday. And this year he is all about a card that plays music.....Nana and Papa really scored when they sent him a Power Rangers card that plays the catchy phrase, "HERE COME THE POWER RANGERS" over and over. To show how OLD I am, I thought the card said, "Pick up the phone. It's ringing." Yes I know that sounds NOTHING like the actual jingle! He also got a singing card from Mimi Carey (Brandon's aunt) who without fail delivers a birthday card every year for both of the boys! I'm just glad our boys are getting old enough to remind me that their birthday is coming up....okay, except Slay. I have a built-in reminder for his birthday....Christmas (DOB 12/24/2008).

Painting for Slay

2009-02-15T16:42:00.005-06:00

One of my many goals to achieve BEFORE the arrival of Slay in December was to get the boys (including Brandon) to paint a canvas to hang in his nursery. We did this when Sharpe was born and it added cute touch to our nursery. It was my way of getting a "new" nursery without spending a lot! (and I am terribly sentimental) I swear I think they are going to want to take these canvases with them when they leave for college....yeah right! Anyway, this is Sharpe's turn to paint for Slay...and as you can see it was all about the fun.....

Highschool Prom Date

2009-02-12T17:44:00.002-06:00

This is a photo of Sean Suleman (far left), who was an exchange student at Warren Central High School. No joke, we went to prom together, and I wore this awful neon pink and yellow dress! (Sorry, Sean) I will now have to find that awful prom picture to post on here just for laughs! We have kept in touch over the years. I have to say he hasn't changed a bit! He's a drummer in a band that is currently in the middle of a European tour. We are hoping one day that he will make it to the States.

PS. Brandon would LOVE some drumming tips....

Let's Go Swimming....Indoors

2009-02-08T20:16:00.011-06:00

Brandon and I took the boys, plus Matthew (our neighbor) to the Turner Center on campus at Ole Miss today! Stratton was a little hesitant to jump off the diving board, but Brandon finally convinced him to at least try it - especially since his little brother was jumping! Slay wasn't too happy, but was tolerant! It won't be long until he will LOVE the pool too!

C'mon summer......

Another Birthday Party Saturday

2009-02-08T11:47:00.010-06:00

Yep, another Saturday afternoon birthday party for the Smith crew. We don't mind since it's usually a different set of kids at each one with a few familiar faces. As you can see, the boys had a blast.

Slay just napped. I will be glad when I can let him TASTE birthday cake! It's the least we can do for dragging him along.

Sharpe spent most of his time playing football with Dad, in the sandbox, or flirting with Gianna - a little girl in his class.

And Stratton......Anyone notice the Charlie's Angels photo? Or maybe the caption should read "Charlie's Devils"! (Sharpe, Stratton, Brandon Williams)

Mississippi State Alumni Announcement

2009-02-07T11:52:00.008-06:00

Slay Thornton Smith

Brandon and Angel (Whatley, '94) Smith announce the birth of their son, Slay Thornton Smith, born December 24, 2008. He is welcomed by big brothers, Stratton and Sharpe.

National Signing Day 2009 - posted by Dad

2009-02-06T21:18:00.005-06:00

Hello new recruits. Glad to know that you are part of the 40 FOUR and FIVE star athletes in the last two years. By the way....that leads the nation.

HO HUM...#1 recruiting class again....didn't we just do this last year? But we do root for Ole Miss every other game they play....Daddy says it helps our house/land value.....I still say "Yuck Ole Miss!"

Am I Cute, or What?

2009-02-06T20:55:00.008-06:00

We got all dolled up today in honor of National Signing Day...do notice the Alabama socks! Actually, we wore them just to aggravate Dr. Henderson, who is a Ole Miss fan....

PS. This was (with Stratton and Sharpe) and still is (with Slay) my favorite outfit! And I couldn't decide which photo to post, so I'm posting lots of 'em!

Finally a Smile!

2009-02-06T20:52:00.004-06:00

I knew if I took enough photos, I would eventually catch Slay smiling....and it's so sweet!

Yeah, I know my hair line is receding...but mine will come back....your's won't!

Wiggle Racers

2009-02-06T20:48:00.006-06:00

The boys still love their wiggle racers...and so does our neighbor, Matthew!

Sunday School Superbowl Fellowship

2009-02-06T15:52:00.010-06:00

Yes we are probably crazy, but we ponied up to host our SS fellowship. While we only had a crowd of about 15 (only ONE Steeler fan, Brandon) we had plenty of laughs and good food! Please note Bro. Gary, our pastor (in the navy v-neck sweater), sporting the 3-D glasses thanks to Kara Mullins who thought to bring them for everyone! And as you can see Mrs. Peggy got her baby fix with Slay and Tanner Carr. She was in hog heaven! PS. From the photos, I think Brandon may have threatened anyone who wanted to sit on the couch...or maybe the description of "Back row Baptists" is appropriate.

Oh to Be Like Dad!

2009-02-06T15:49:00.003-06:00

Most of you can't appreciate this photo, but those of us who know Stratton, this is a stretch! We've been trying to get him to let us spike his hair (just for fun) for months, but he wouldn't have it! Finally Brandon talked him into it...and he was so proud!

Looks Just Like Mom? Hardly!

2009-02-06T15:44:00.003-06:00

Just realized that I don't have many photos of Stratton and me, so this is the beginning of trying to fix that! He's gotten a little less tolerant of the camera the older he has gotten, but that hasn't stopped me from earning the well deserved title of "Camera Lady!" Like my Dad used to say, "I'm going to take the picture. You might as well smile. You will wish you had!"

Saturday Morning Buds

2009-02-06T15:41:00.003-06:00

How cute, huh? Figured I better catch this in a hurry because in a matter of minutes, someone was probably going to be in a headlock!

Connor Bradley's Birthday Party

2009-02-06T15:30:00.011-06:00

Another exciting Saturday afternoon for the Smith crew! Brandon wasn't too thrilled to be there, since he thinks birthday parties fall under "Mommy's Duties" - but he was a trooper! Not to mention, I am still getting used to this third addition, so I haven't braved the solo parent trip yet!! Despite the chaos of getting everyone there, the boys had a blast! BTW, check out Sharpe on the "dirt bike" bicycle!

Chinese New Year Parade

2009-01-26T18:49:00.006-06:00

Betcha didn't know today was the Chinese New Year? The kiddos at Bramlett - including Mrs. Case, celebrated in style with a parade of dragons. (Note: the much bigger kid in the back of the line is Stratton). I've even included a photo of baby brother who watched the parade in amazement...or was that a look of confusion?

Growing like a weed!

2009-01-25T18:41:00.005-06:00

My precious Slay is getting bigger every day! I still think he looks like me, so here's the photos to prove it! And I wish I could sleep like this!

Could I watch TV in peace?

2009-01-25T18:39:00.004-06:00

Can you believe this kid is only 5? He looks like a teenager stretched out on the couch!

Take this passie and shhhh!

2009-01-25T18:32:00.008-06:00

Thoughts from a 3 year old big brother.....Open your mouth, Baby Slay. I know this fits! See I told you!

Stratton is learning to write

2009-01-25T18:29:00.008-06:00

I can't believe my Stratton is old enough to be learning to read and write! So much for doing the "parental spell a thon" to keep kids from knowing exactly what you are saying! Sharpe wanted to post his "writing" too!

It never stops at our house....

2009-01-25T18:23:00.002-06:00

Daddy time

2009-01-25T18:18:00.005-06:00

Just another day of Momma making Daddy pose for photos....but they are so sweet!

Hats anyone?

2009-01-23T19:31:00.003-06:00

Today was Stratton's 100th day at Bramlett (Pre-K). They celebrated all week by counting to 100 and other activities like making this hat with the number 100 on it. Sharpe's class learned about police officers....thus the hat!

PS. Yes, Mom, I know their faces are dirty.....

Me and Mommy

2009-01-23T19:28:00.004-06:00

I complained of not having any photos with the boys and Brandon has come to my rescue! Since Slay is my HELD baby, I'm trying the "papoose" carrier in hopes of being able to get more accomplished.

Just hanging out

2009-01-23T19:20:00.005-06:00

Then comes Fraiser.....with kisses! Buckley was.....well, tolerant.

My little devil....

2009-01-22T15:49:00.004-06:00

This one is going to be my charmer......and my little devil. He already knows how to "woo" his Momma with comments like "I think you're the 'pwettiest'." He must be taking notes from his Daddy!

Out to meet Daddy for lunch

2009-01-22T15:46:00.001-06:00

We met Daddy for lunch yesterday and he just looked so cute in his hat (Dad probably hates him in hats, but it's cold!) As you can tell by the "I'm so sleepy look", Slay seems to enjoy a car ride (for now).

Making faces

2009-01-22T15:42:00.002-06:00

Eventually, I hope to catch him smiling.......

I'm thankful for.... (by Stratton)

2009-01-22T15:36:00.001-06:00

This was some of Stratton's artwork from his Pre-K class. It just melts my heart every time I read it.

Like Socks on a Rooster

2009-01-19T19:07:00.001-06:00

That's how Stratton's shorts fit Sharpe.....but don't tell Sharpe that....he's so proud!

An engineer in the making....

2009-01-19T19:04:00.003-06:00

Good looks, sweet nature, missing teeth but has brains.....what more could you ask for? The only reason Stratton is smiling is because his little brother isn't around to destroy his project!

At home all day with 4 boys.....

2009-01-19T19:01:00.003-06:00

I'm not a big MLK holiday fan, and after spending all day with my three and Matthew (our neighbor) due to the schools being closed, I'm REALLY not a fan! They really are great kids.....but someone was either mad, crying or bleeding at some point today!

Home Maintenance.....and a good laugh too!

2009-01-19T18:58:00.002-06:00

Laugh with me! Brandon is really wearing a poncho as he fixes our ceiling! Never a dull moment in this marriage!

Daddy's Idea of Babysitting

2009-01-17T20:38:00.003-06:00

Whatever works is the motto of our house! Since Slay is my "held" baby, I was much surprised to find that Daddy had found a solution for getting supper on the table for the other two - without having to hold Slaybird.

Finally...a photo of Slay and Momma

2009-01-17T20:35:00.002-06:00

I'm typically the one taking the photos, so there aren't a lot of photos of me with Slay. Hope you enjoy this one! (Thanks Daddy, for taking this one!)

Photos of us - NO KIDS

2009-01-15T16:01:00.010-06:00

I went on a hunt to see if we had any photos of just the two of us (without kids in the picture). I stumbled across a few of my favorites. Ironically, they are all from our trips to Mexico!

Momma, can I hold Baby Slay?

2009-01-15T13:33:00.008-06:00

If I hear this one time a day, I hear it twenty times a day, but each time, it is so precious. Stratton and Sharpe really seem to love their little brother. I am enjoying the sweet time, because it won't last forever!

Yes, we do have a few photos of us (parents)

2009-01-15T13:30:00.003-06:00

Here are a few snapshots of Brandon and me (and the boys) taken in December - and yes, I'm pregnant. We spend so much time taking photos of our heathens, that we forget to include us. After all, in 15 years, it will be fun to look back and poke fun at each other at how "YOUNG" we looked!

Baby's Got a New Hat

2009-01-15T13:26:00.002-06:00

Couldn't resist posting this photo. This hat was hand made by Jennifer Bramlett, who is in our Sunday school class! He just looks so adorable in it and just in time for this frigid weather we are having!

Christmas photos, but worth a look

2009-01-15T13:20:00.005-06:00

Since our Christmas was so out of sorts, I didn't have a chance to share many of our holiday photos. These are snapshots from the Santa party hosted by our neighbors, Mark and Cindy Finn. I have a feeling we are going to be hosting this party soon!

Brrrrr! Anyone for cocoa?

2009-01-15T13:16:00.003-06:00

These photos are actually from this past weekend. After playing outside Sunday afternoon, we made hot "cha cha" milk - as my Sharpe would say. Needless to say, they loved it! So did Mom! (and she didn't even go outside)

2008 Christmas Card....minus Slay

2009-01-14T08:36:00.009-06:00

Oops....we didn't intentionally leave Slay off. We just weren't expecting his arrival until December 30th! Maybe next year, we'll have the whole crew on the card....oh that should be fun....trying to get all 3 boys to stop touching each other, look at the camera and smile! We'll shoot for 2 out of 3 smiling. One will probably be crying.

And oh yeah, Santa, how bout those two front teeth on my list?

Slay's First Day

2009-01-13T20:14:00.008-06:00

Slay Thornton Smith - born December 24, 2008 @ 1:02pm

7 pounds, 7 ounces - 19 1/4 inches

Healthy!

PS. This is Dr. Wm. Henderson, who delivered all three of the Smith boys!
And this is where all were born!