A Day in the Life of Tripp, Tate and Levi

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T11:06:00.000-08:00

Wishing you all a wonderful new year as we head into 2012. We're bringing in the new year with the Stephens family and have every intention of staying up until the stroke of midnight! It'll make the start of the new year rough for mommy with 3 tired babies, but we're going to close out the year with a bang.

Happy New Year!

Brotherly Bonding

2011-12-30T11:05:00.000-08:00

Fancy Girl

2011-12-27T11:15:00.000-08:00

I went and played with my friend, Sage, the other day and her mommy snapped a quick picture of me being my typical fancy girl. From the looks of it, I don't think I was missing mommy much.

And the 2nd one falls....

2011-12-26T11:01:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2011

2011-12-25T06:08:00.000-08:00

Santa came to our house!!! I guess we were better than we thought because he definitely spoiled us rotten and we got exactly what we asked him for! Bubba asked him for a metal detector, Levi 'wanted' baby toys and I wanted a princess sleeping bag with princess cup, fork and plate. We got lots of great gifts from our family and friends and had so much fun playing at the house and being lazy. After a late breakfast, we got dressed and ventured out to Tomball to have Christmas dinner with our family - and our famous cousin gift exchange. More presents? I'm all over it!

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T18:22:00.000-08:00

As we do every year, we went to Christmas Eve service in the afternoon and then went to Uncle Stan's for Christmas dinner with daddy's side of the family. His Hawaii family was also there this year so it was a big time had by all! Afterwards, we went home to open our one gift and get ready for Santa's arrival. We also said good bye to Frostin until next year. We put out the reindeer food (quickly I might add because it was SOOO cold this evening) and set out his plate of cookies and carrots with milk. It's also a tradition for mommy and daddy to slumber party in our rooms with us on Christmas Eve. We were so excited that we didn't think we'd be able to sleep, but we were out like a light with visions of sugarplums dancing in our heads.

Each Christmas Eve Service, all of the kids are invited on stage to sing 'Away in the Manger' with country star, Rick Trevino

What's missing?

2011-12-24T06:08:00.000-08:00

Cheatham Street

2011-12-23T17:57:00.000-08:00

This evening we went to San Marcos to the famous Cheatham Street bar to see Eden and her family since they were in town for Christmas. The Cheatham Street bar is where many country singers got their start - including George Strait! We danced the night away and then ended the evening with local Mexican food at Garcia's.

and no night is complete without a time-out thrown in

Christmas Cookie Time

2011-12-23T17:51:00.000-08:00

Christmas isn't Christmas without making Christmas sugar cookies in preparation for Santa! In addition to making fabulous cookies in a variety of shapes, we also make a gigantic mess while on a sugar high. Tis the season!

Thinking about which cookie to eat....I mean make next

New Christmas Song

2011-12-23T06:08:00.000-08:00

Well this Christmas, it looks like instead of 2 front teeth, Levi will have 3 (2 bottom and 1 top) and Bubba will be short 1. His tooth is going to fall out any minute and so maybe the words of the song can be......my 1 front tooth. :)

Annual Ornament Exchange

2011-12-22T21:06:00.001-08:00

It's a tradition! Since Bubba was in CMO, we've had an ornament party each year for the friends he met there. Our party has grown since we started with just the 5 original kids and now combined (with all the babies) there are 14 among the 5 families. The exchange is just for the kids and we love seeing the ornaments on the tree year over year. Knowing mommy, she'll still plan this even when we're 50.

Big Boy Sleep Over

2011-12-20T21:06:00.000-08:00

Bubba's buddy, JP, invited him to go to a holiday party with his family and then stay the night. Now, Tripp has had sleep overs with Emmylou, but that's his best friend so it doesn't count. Tonight was a big deal because it was Bubba's 1st real big boy slumber party with a buddy! The boys had to take 'tough guy' pictures before heading out for an evening of parties, baking sugar cookies, legos and paper airplanes. I sure missed him and couldn't wait for him to come back home.

Bruiser

2011-12-20T19:00:00.000-08:00

You may think I'm cute and girlie but really, I'm a bruiser. I love to wrestle with my brother and can take him if he's not careful. Tonight we were wrestling on the couch (which we're not supposed to do) and when I jumped on Bubba's back, he popped up and I went flying.

Face first.
Straight down.
On my face.
And my nose.
Into the ottoman.

Mommy thought I broke my nose and with the blood and scrapes, thought I'd be scarred for life. Nope. I'm just a bruiser. Who's next?

Tripp's first ER visit

2011-12-17T18:46:00.000-08:00

In the middle of the night, Bubba woke up screaming like we've never heard him scream. He was complaining about his ear, which normally mommy would think was an ear infection accept for the fact that we've both been on amoxicillan for the past 10 days for strep. Daddy took Bubba to the ER and at 4am, they finally made it home. It wasn't an ear infection or a ruptured ear drum - but they're really not sure what it was.

Tripp: Mommy, what's the stuff in my ear called? Pulp? Well, I had a lot of it in there.

Beauty and the Beast

2011-12-17T18:18:00.000-08:00

As a surprise, mommy bought tickets for just the 2 of us to go see Beauty and the Beast on stage! Mommy loves musicals and broadway - so I think she's excited to drag me along to them when daddy won't go. This was a special day because I didn't know where we were going and once we were there, I gasped with delight. I just LOVE Belle and she's my new favorite princess. Sorry Cinderella! My 'princess pose'

Welcome Christmas Break!

2011-12-16T20:07:00.000-08:00

Bubba's best friend, Emmylou, has had sleep overs with us before but tonight, Bubba had his 1st real big boy sleep over with JP. Today was the first day of Christmas break so JP rode the bus home and stayed with us all day and all night.....and then even the next day. It was a rowdy household, as you can imagine, and what made it even more out of control was the fact that for some reason, mommy decided to have the carpets, rugs AND furniture steam cleaned today and we couldn't be on any of it for 24 hours. Imagine how fun that was for us....and mom. We all ran around like wild banshees (avoiding all carpets and upholstery), then had dinner followed by movie night on the living room floor. We sure love JP and can't wait for him to come stay with us again.

Tripp's Gingerbread House Party

2011-12-16T19:01:00.000-08:00

Tis the season for Christmas parties and school events. Tripp had his gingerbread classroom party today in Mrs. Olson's class and they made them out of mini milk cartons. There definitely is not a shortage of Christmas sugar around our house. Yippee!

Christmas Pageant

2011-12-14T19:02:00.000-08:00

Today was not only the last day of school for the year but it was also the day of our Christmas Pageant. I took this very seriously and practiced singing 'Away in the Manger' almost every second of the day. My class represented the animals in the stable. Mommy always says I'm a monkey but I'm pretty sure monkeys weren't around the manger with Baby Jesus - so I settled for a horse instead.

Levi is 7 months

2011-12-13T18:47:00.000-08:00

Our little booger is 16 lbs and 8 oz long. He has 3 teeth and is so stinkin' cute with his little grin. He's rolling everywhere and from time to time will get on his knees and rock. Uh oh. This will be trouble. He is still so easy and laid back and is showing us more of his personality. He would rather be held, aka spoiled, and let's us know about it if we put him down. He loves his exersaucer and loves to lay in the bed with us and watch movies on the ipad. Peek a boo is his absolute favorite game and we're able to make him laugh all of the time. He's so much fun! He doesn't like his car seat, but then again who does, and he LOVES food. In addition to food, he is now introduced to formula too! Mommy has to not let him see when she's making his bottle because he has an absolute fit. He is a talker. If he's not getting our attention, he gets louder and louder until he's acknowledged. I think he learned that from Tate.

We love you, little man, and we're blessed to have you as our baby brother.

Trippism

2011-12-11T20:22:00.001-08:00

Tripp: Mommy, I want to go to Costco because there are pets.

Mommy: Little guy, there aren't pets at Costco.

Tripp: Mommy, you're lying! Yesterday you told me that people are bringing their pets. You said 'everyone and their dog is at Costco'.

Happy Birthday, Daddy!

2011-12-10T20:23:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to our daddy! This morning we surprised him with breakfast in bed. We helped mommy make it, too, so it was extra special and extra messy! We love you daddy.

Santa Claus is in town!

2011-12-09T20:22:00.000-08:00

We'd better not shout, we'd better not cry, we'd better not pout - I'm telling you why. Santa Claus is IN town and so is Frostin!!!! Santa told us we were on the 'nice' list and we plan to stay there. Especially because Bubba wants him to bring him a metal detector and I want a princess sleeping bag and other princess things. I think Levi automatically qualifies for the 'nice' list and we told Santa he'd probably want baby toys. Always looking out for our baby!

Hip Hop Recital

2011-12-03T18:59:00.001-08:00

Tripp loves to dance and asked mommy if he could take Hip Hop. Mommy loves to let us try new things and so of course she said yes. He's been in hip hop for a few months now and this evening was his first recital at the Scottish Rite Theater. He did AWESOME and was a natural on stage. Mommy has the video and if she can figure out how to post it, she will. In the meantime, here are some pictures from the recital.

Tate's Gingerbread House Party

2011-12-03T18:59:00.000-08:00

As a fundraiser, my school hosts an annual gingerbread making party. We get a plain gingerbread house and then we get to go through the candy line over and over to get just the right treats to decorate our house beautifully! The end result is an awesome gingerbread house for display (and snacking) as well as many kids on an all day sugar high!

it's beginning to look a lot like christmas

2011-11-26T21:05:00.001-08:00

The Sunday after Thanksgiving, we always start decorating for Christmas. It's lots of fun to turn on the Christmas music and drink hot chocolate together while decorating and this year, we were actually a lot of help. This is also Levi's first Christmas so we had to make it extra special. We also get excited because if we have the house decorated just right, Frostin (our elf) usually shows up the next day. He's just as excited as we are for Christmas!!

Thanksgiving 2011 - College Station

2011-11-25T06:45:00.000-08:00

And last but not least, we ended our Thanksgiving holiday with a visit to Mama's house. We're always too busy at Mama's to sit still enough for pictures but mommy was able to get a couple for the blog's sake.

The Last Game

2011-11-24T21:04:00.000-08:00

Football in Texas is a big deal - especially if you're from Texas A&M or University of Texas. The Aggies and Longhorns have had a long standing rivalry since 1894 and tonight it will come to an end due to the Aggies leaving for the SEC and just plain politics. After our lunch in Tomball, we headed out to Kyle Field to watch our turkey day tradition for the last time.

Reveille enjoying a little taste of Bevo!!

Just a little rest

Thanksgiving 2011 - Tomball

2011-11-24T21:00:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is always a busy holiday for us since we try to get in visits with our College Station and Tomball families. This year was no different but it sure was a lot of fun. First stop? Tomball.

Mommy, Papa and Levi

The cousins minus 3.

Tate's Favorite Thanksgiving Food

2011-11-21T21:04:00.000-08:00

We're having a thanksgiving party at my school and each of us are to bring our favorite food to share with our classmates. Ms. Marci went around the room and asked each of us what our favorite food was and she heard answers like broccoli, mac & cheese, bananas, strawberries before asking me. I proudly told her 'Lucky Charms' so that's what I brought to share. I think everyone loved the little marshmallows as much as I did!

Rocks and Paper Airplanes and Acorns, Oh My!

2011-11-21T20:32:00.000-08:00

Bubba's newest obsession is paper airplanes. He's always loved rocks and acorns so now when mommy empties his backpack from school, she has an even bigger assortment of rocks, acorns and paper planes in every shape and size. During free center time, he makes paper airplanes and then brings them home to fly all over the house and over the banister from upstairs. One or 2 airplanes would be fine but I think we have about 100 with the number increasing on a daily basis. He's now gone to the shredder box and turned 'to be shredded' papers into colorful 'to be shredded' airplanes. I guess recycling IS a good thing and at least his obsession isn't bugs or worms or worse!

Aggie Levi - Texas A&M Class of 2033

2011-11-19T21:03:00.000-08:00

Martha Mommy

2011-11-18T21:02:00.000-08:00

Mommy signed up for a cookie decorating class just in time for Christmas cookie making! She said she'd go learn all the tricks to great decorating and we would make some together this season. We were very proud of mommy for her 'skills' but I don't think we'll be making cookies anytime soon - or I should say decorating cookies anytime soon. She now understands why decorated cookies are usually $3 or more a piece! Oh well, at least it was a fun evening for her and a very yummy treat for us!

Fancy GIrl!

2011-11-17T21:03:00.000-08:00

It's always fun playing in mommy's closet. Just about every day, I take out all of her skirts, necklaces and heels and dress up. I have so much fun twirling around and pretending to be a beautiful princess. Today was no exception.

Rain???!!!

2011-11-15T21:02:00.000-08:00

If you've heard anything about Texas, you'll know that we've been in a serious drought with no real rain to speak of. This morning, we woke up to a fabulous rain storm and had to test out our new raincoats and rain boots from Grammy. We're happy to announce that they worked perfectly and kept us super dry while playing in the rain. Bring on the rain!!

Food, Glorious, Food!

2011-11-14T17:28:00.001-08:00

Since birth, my baby has only had milk to eat.....until now! He started food today and although he wasn't too sure of it at first, I think he decided he loved it! I can't wait to see all of the fun things he likes to eat. I'm sure mac & cheese will be his favorite, just like me.

Bubba feeding Levi his very first bite of oatmeal

Levi is 6 months

2011-11-13T17:27:00.000-08:00

Little man -
We're already at the 6 month mark! What fun we're having and how big you're getting - all too fast. So, are you up to this month? Rolling over is old news to you and it sure makes nap time a bit more interesting because when you're on your tummy, you think it's play time. I can't complain because although I may have to take a couple more trips to your room to make sure you're asleep, you're still a great sleeper and sleep through the night like a champ. Your grabbing at things and trying to scoot a bit to get what you want. I have this sneaking suspicion that once you're crawling, you'll be more trouble than Tripp and Tate were. Your personality shows more and more each day and I have no doubt you'll be able to hold your own against your siblings - especially your sister. But, as I always tell you, she sure loves her baby! Talking is a new hobby of yours and you talk non-stop. I love the babbling sound and love the smiles that accompany it. At your doctor's visit this month you are 27.25 height (75th percentile) and 16.2 weight (30th). We're about to start real food so I'm sure that will fatten you up by your 9 month visit. I love seeing your precious face each day and the unconditional love you show. Thank you for being my sweet boy and I can't wait to see what fun the coming months bring!

Love,
Mommy

Weekend of Parties

2011-11-12T21:00:00.000-08:00

It was a beautiful weekend and we had 2 fun parties to attend - one for my friend and one for Tripp's. We started at a petting zoo party in the morning and my favorite was the the pony rides. Very fun and dignified, if you ask me. Later in the afternoon, we went to JP's party in the park where everyone had to bring nerf guns and wear camo. Picture about 20 boys with nerf guns loose with targets and trails to maneuver. No one was safe but they had the best time ever. Happy birthday to our sweet friends!

11-11-11

2011-11-11T19:14:00.000-08:00

How cool is it that today is 11-11-11? And, to top it off, we made a wish at 11:11am.

Family Pictures

2011-11-10T19:28:00.000-08:00

Top Salesman in Training

2011-11-09T20:18:00.001-08:00

Tripp had a fundraiser for his school selling chocolates and wrapping paper. The school offered parents a 'cash out' option so they wouldn't have to 'help' sell anything but Bubba wouldn't have any part of that. He was determined to raise money for his school and by golly, he did! He was in the top 3 for sales and came home with a lot of valuable prizes. Thanks for everyone who helped my brother!

Levi can hold his bottle!

2011-11-08T21:01:00.000-08:00

Look what my baby can do now? He thinks since he's almost 6 months old that he is so big!

Sweet Berry Farms Pumpkin Patch

2011-11-06T18:34:00.001-08:00

It was a beautiful weekend and so we decided to take a Sunday trip out to the pumpkin patch at Sweet Berry Farms with the Holts. First stop? The famous Bluebonnet Cafe for good home-style cookin' and mile high meringue pies. Yum! We had a lot of fun feeding goats, running through the maze and playing in the pumpkins while Mommy and Ms. Angie were busy snapping pictures. Of course.

Final Soccer Game

2011-11-05T18:34:00.000-07:00

It was another winning season for the Tornadoes (well, they don't keep score at this level but we're claiming the title anyway) and tonight it came to a close. We had a great 'run' and a lot of fun with familiar friends with new traditions along the way - although I think we're all over Torchy's Taco Mondays. Coaches (Coach Paul was out of the country for this game)

A little sideline fun

Good-bye, Lucy

2011-11-02T18:52:00.000-07:00

Well, our dear pet didn't make it very long. Mommy wanted to just flush Lucy but considering it was our first real pet, she agreed to a funeral. We waited until daddy got home (because mommy doesn't do so well in this department) and decided to bury Lucy under the oak tree. Daddy brought out the big shovel, although mommy thought a spoon would have been sufficient, and after digging a hole probably close to 6 ft under, we said a little prayer and I sang 'Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star'. It was a beautiful funeral for our beautiful little fish.

Halloween

2011-10-31T18:32:00.000-07:00

Now that our costumes are really broken in, it's time to celebrate Halloween! Our neighborhood has a Halloween party at the little restaurant on the lake each year followed by a hay ride for trick or treating. Mommy was in charge of the event this year and we all had a great time. Between the pinatas and buckets of candy we each took home, I would say it was a successful evening all around.

The Ninja and his princess

Sorting our candy

Bring a Friend

2011-10-30T19:34:00.000-07:00

Today at Awanas it was 'bring a friend day' AND 'paint your face'. How fun! We brought Caroline and Parrish as our guests and mommy painted our faces in the parking lot.

Carving Pumpkins

2011-10-30T18:38:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy few weeks and we almost forgot to carve our pumpkins! Fortunately, daddy remembered our fun tradition and we helped transform our sweet pumpkin patch pumpkins into fun and festive jack o lanterns. Levi was too little to help but he did get to participate in his own little way.

The Farm

2011-10-29T19:35:00.000-07:00

After the Aggie games, we always stay with Mama in College Station. While Bubba and I were cruising around the farm finding things to get into this weekend, Levi hung out very contently in Mama's arms. Weekends at the farm rank close to the top of our 'favorites' list!

The Hoot

2011-10-28T18:32:00.000-07:00

At the Cake Walk

Tate and her win from the stuffed animal walk......

....and her win at the cake walk! Pink, My Little Pony and Fairies? Imagine that!

Meet Lucy! Bubba's new goldfish he won.

Pumpkin "Butt" Cake

2011-10-27T18:31:00.000-07:00

Each year, Bubba's school has a HUGE Halloween fundraiser called 'The Hoot'. Although this is his first year at the school, we're no stranger to the Hoot and have gone for the past 3 years. It is super fun with games, slides, prizes, cake walks, stuffed animal walks, haunted houses.....you name it. All of the classrooms are assigned a 'booth' and parent involvement is highly encouraged. Mommy signed up to help with the ticket sales but Bubba also signed mommy up to make a cake for the cake walk! We thought we'd be a little creative and make a Pumpkin Bundt Cake with a spice cake in the shape of a pumpkin. Great idea except that the bottom bundt cake collapsed and the other cake stuck in the pan. And then, once we started icing it, the cake split in the back and now we were stuck with a flat pumpkin "butt" cake. Oh well, Bubba and I thought it was fun and that's really all that matters.

Hip Hop - we don't stop!

2011-10-26T18:31:00.000-07:00

Check out Bubba's dance moves in his hip hop class!

Tate's Halloween Parade

2011-10-26T18:30:00.000-07:00

We had our Halloween parade today at school and I was so excited to get to wear my costume - Cinderella of course! We took pictures in our class and then we all paraded around the chapel for the other classes and families to see. I made sure to let everyone know that I was a beautiful princess with my beautiful dress, shoes and tiara (I wore the birthday tiara that our friend Missy gave me once she was finished celebrating her 40th birthday). I'm so excited because of the many opportunities for me to wear my Halloween costume this year. I may never take it off!

Getting our money's worth......

2011-10-26T18:02:00.000-07:00

I've been able to wear my costume so many times so far and we haven't even made it to Halloween yet! How fun is that? After school, I had to put my costume back on for ballet and as you can tell, I was very upset by this.

Bus Stop Tripp-isms

2011-10-26T04:52:00.001-07:00

Bus stop conversations/rationales in the morning can be entertaining.

Conversation 1:
"Mom - hurry and close the front door because we don't want to let the bats in. They can smell my lucky charms"

Conversation 2:
"Tripp, No more collecting rocks. They're going to ruin my washer and dryer"
"Mom, Mrs. Olson says I'm a geologist because I like rocks, so it's ok"

How many cooks in the kitchen?

2011-10-23T18:59:00.000-07:00

We love to help mommy cook. This morning, we made orange cinnamon streusel muffins as a surprise for daddy from scratch and they were de-lish!

Eat, Drink and Be Scary Ball

2011-10-22T18:30:00.000-07:00

Mommy and Daddy (aka Cleopatra and Hercules) attended the Eat, Drink and Be Scary Ball benefiting Sammy's House this evening along with some of their good friends. Ms. Angie (aka Priscilla Presley) was the chair and I don't know about you, but to me it looks like they had a great time while raising a lot of money for a very good cause.

Quality Time

2011-10-20T18:54:00.000-07:00

There's nothing better than a netflix movie streaming on the ipad for baby Levi and I to enjoy together.

Meeting Von Miller

2011-10-19T19:46:00.003-07:00

This weekend,we played the Baylor Bears and won! Our Aggie, Von Miller, now plays for the Denver Broncos and was the honorary team captain for this game. When we were walking to our car after the game, we saw him and he took a picture with us. Gig 'Em, Von!

The Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-18T18:37:00.000-07:00

One of the churches here has a great pumpkin patch each year as a fundraiser. We love to go and play in the pumpkins, touch the pumpkins, take pictures in the pumpkins and then pick out special ones to bring home with us to carve. This year, I didn't want to cooperate because I was tired so this is what mommy was able to capture on 'film' to commemorate Levi's first pumpkin patch experience.

Happy Birthday, Sofia and Bella!

2011-10-16T18:37:00.000-07:00

Our sweet friends, Sofia and Bella, had a joint birthday party today because their mommy is expecting twin girls in a couple of weeks and she didn't want to miss a party! So, we had a fun day at the park complete with a petting zoo and train. We were supposed to have the party last weekend but get this - after all summer with no rain and 105+ degree weather - it rained!! Bittersweet I suppose because we need the rain in a bad way but the party had to be postponed. It was a much better weekend for it though so I think it worked out for the best.

Levi's big boy crib

2011-10-15T19:29:00.000-07:00

Well, it's official. Levi is in his big boy crib and no longer in mommy and daddy's room. The cradle he's been sleeping in is getting too small and so mommy thought she'd transition him to his room upstairs over the next week or so. No transition needed! He went to bed straight away and never made a peep. Truth be told, mommy would have put him up here a week or so ago but she's been really afraid of what I might do. She's had monitors for us when we were little but for Levi, she went out and bought a video monitor to not really watch Levi, but to watch me and make sure I left him alone. He he - I'm sure I'll figure out a way around that one. Welcome to your new room, Levi Love.

Levi is 5 months old

2011-10-13T19:45:00.000-07:00

Today you're 5 months old and each day, you get to be more fun. You're starting to find your voice and we can tell you're going to be a talker. Maybe not as much as Tatie, but you'll definitely be able to hold your own. You're getting more control with your head and body and aren't as wobbly as you were even a week or so ago. Hands! Wow - you've discovered them and they're becoming very useful when you want to reach out for a toy or pull the pacifier from your mouth 100 times. You haven't yet discovered your feet but will soon enough. Tate and Tripp are a bit more entertaining to you and they've been able to get you to laugh on more than one occasion. Tate still tends to be a little rough but little man, I promise we're working on that. She just loves you so much! She always wants to hold you and kiss you and feed you and just love on you. You're a lucky little boy. Drool is constant and you're always chewing on your hands. I don't see any teeth budding yet but maybe it's coming sooner than I expect. I feel like I've lost a battle with a water fountain most days with you but I'll take the slobbery 'kiss' any day of the week. You're sleeping through the night from 7 to 7 for the most part and do pretty well with your naps - unless Ms. Connie has you. She doesn't make you take naps because she says you're 'not tired'. Ah, we love Ms. Connie. Overall, you're a laid back little fellow and I love seeing your happy little face each day. I look forward to watching you grow and figure out this world around you - all while loving you with all of my heart. It's been a great 5 months!
Love,
Mommy.

3 year check up

2011-10-10T19:45:00.000-07:00

I had my 3 year check up today and am growing like a weed. I'm already 30.5 lbs and 38 inches tall! Mommy says I'm a skinny minnie but my doctor says I'm right on track being 75th percentile in height and 50th in weight. My doctor asked me all kinds of questions including what I liked to eat. Basically I told her bread, cheese and yogurt. When she asked if I liked eggs I said 'no way'! Same answer with spinach and other healthy things I should be eating. Knowing mommy, she'll find a tricky way to get me to eat the things I won't willingly eat.

Overall, I was very brave and did everything I was supposed to do while at my visit but that's only because I didn't know there were shots coming at the end. Had I known that to start with, I don't think I would have cooperated as much. But, I did get a token after and mommy and I had a fun picnic and ice cream at the park. That always makes things better!a

First Roll Over

2011-10-06T19:17:00.000-07:00

Levi rolled over from his back to his tummy today! Yeah, Levi! You're getting to be such a big boy and we love you soooooo much.

First Kindergarten Field Trip

2011-10-04T19:46:00.000-07:00

Tripp's kindergarten class had a field trip to the fire station today and mommy went to help. They all walked from the school to station #19 and after watching a fire safety video they had a private tour of the whole place! When it was time to go climb on the fire trucks, unfortunately the firefighters got a call and before you knew it, they were all dressed in their gear and loaded up to go help someone. It was a pretty exciting day!

Off they go!

Tate-ism

2011-10-04T17:59:00.000-07:00

Mommy asks me to do a lot of things. Be sweet to Levi, don't fight with Bubba, take my shoes off in the laundry room, etc. Typical things I suppose. Well, at our Sunday school club called Awanas, I'm learning more and more about Jesus and my new phrase for mommy when she asks me to do something is:

Mommy - you're not the boss of me. Jesus is.

The disappearing y y's

2011-10-02T04:17:00.000-07:00

When Cinderella left, the y y's disappeared with her. Y y's are my word for pacifier. Cinderella explained that there were a lot of babies that needed y y's and now that I was a big girl, I didn't need them anymore. I agreed and said good bye to Cinderella and my y y's. I'm such a big girl and haven't looked back since!

Tate's Princess Tea Party

2011-10-02T04:16:00.002-07:00

What a big day! For my birthday party this year, I wanted a princess party. So mommy planned a princess party for my girlfriends and me - and you'll never guess who came as my special guest! Cinderella herself! Oh my gosh. was i ever excited. Cinderella called me on the phone a couple of days ago to tell me she was coming to visit but I didn't really 'get it' until she showed up at my door. Cinderella was so much fun and taught us all how to curtsy like a princess and how to clap like a princess. She then told us the story of her wicked stepmother and meeting Prince Charming. We played games with her, blew bubbles, watched a magic show and then it was on to our 'tea the princess way' lesson. I had so much fun I didn't want it to end. Thank you, Cinderella, for making my day so special!

Levi's Dedication

2011-10-02T04:16:00.001-07:00

This morning we had Levi's dedication at our church. He was so good it and it was such a special time for our family. I was excited that Levi and I both shared our special day. I love you, "Lebi".

Happy 3rd Birthday, Tate!

2011-10-02T04:16:00.000-07:00

Today is my 3rd birthday! Can you believe it? We have a busy day because not only is it my birthday, but it's also baby Levi's dedication. There will be a lot of fun pictures to see of my princess birthday party (imagine that) but here I am as a big 3 year old. Happy birthday to me!

Welcome, baby Landon!

2011-09-26T19:56:00.000-07:00

We have a new cousin! Aunt Helen and Uncle Matt have been trying to have a baby for a long time but when Aunt Helen was younger, she had leukemia and because of all of the chemo and radiation, they've had problems having a baby of their own. Well, their good friends offered to help and were the surrogate for them and guess who joined our family today? Baby Landon Matthew Vaughn! Welcome to the family, baby Landon. We can't wait to meet you!

Ahh......pampering

2011-09-24T04:12:00.000-07:00

Daddy and Bubba went to the Texas Aggie game today and so mommy and I had to entertain ourselves. What should we do? Why, a mani/pedi of course! (Levi contently watched us from his stroller)

The budding photographer

2011-09-21T04:13:00.000-07:00

Tripp loves the camera and loves taking pictures. Check out the pictures mommy found while downloading to the computer. I guess Bubba was having a mini photo session of his own. We'll title this exhibit, 'My favorite things'. Yes,Bubba took this picture of Levi

Before the parachute guy goes airborne.....

And, after

And of course the alarm clock that Bubba had to have although he never wakes up when the alarm goes off

Happy Birthday, Miller Miller!

2011-09-18T04:11:00.000-07:00

Miller's birthday was earlier this month but today was his birthday party at the Dino Park. It was so scarrrrrrry but so much fun! We got to go on a hunt for dinosaurs, dig for dino bones and have dino grub, including dino cake. I'm so glad we were able to celebrate with my best buddy. Happy Birthday to Miller!

Homework

2011-09-16T04:14:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure what all of the fuss is about homework. I hear people complain about it but Bubba brings some of his home for us to see and it sure looks like a lot of fun to me! Here are some of his recent creations with the rest of his class.

Letter to Tripp

2011-09-14T18:25:00.001-07:00

Little guy -
I'm way overdue in this letter update. The days are flying by and I'm finding that I have to force myself to slow down and savor every bit of you. You've grown and matured so much and seem so big to me but when I saw you get off the bus the other day, I had to smile realizing you're still my little boy who still calls me mommy and runs up to me with lots of hugs and kisses. I just adore you and love every minute with you. There is so much to catch up on so I'll do my best while trying not to ramble on.

Kindergarten definitely agrees with you and you're so excited to tell me all that you're learning each day. I miss having you home but am so excited to watch that little brain of yours figure things out in the world around you. Your vocabulary has continued to expand and sometimes you really surprise me with the words that come out of your mouth. You still have the biggest heart and are super protective of your little sister and little brother. They are so blessed to have you as their big brother and years down the road when you think you're too big to hang around them, please remember that from day one, they've always loved and adored you and look up to you in every way.

I'm not sure of your height and weight but you're big. I notice that you're taller than a lot of the kids in your class and I think you'll end up being tall like daddy. You eat well - and I may have to take a second mortgage out of the house because of it. I can't imagine what my grocery bill will look like in your teenage years. You're a good eater and enjoy 'healthy' things (again, thank you kindergarten). It's not unusual for your lunch to consist of a sandwich, cottage cheese, a mushroom or 2 and a handful of grape tomatoes. Now, if we can just get your sister to try more than just cheese. Work on that with me, will ya?

Legos are your 'thing' now and you could probably put them together with your eyes closed. Not too long ago, you'd wait until daddy was home so that he could help you with your latest lego project but now you get such joy and satisfaction by putting them together so you can show daddy when he gets home. You have quite the collection and whenever possible, you're always asking for the next set. You're also still into art and the creative side of things. You did not get this from me as I'm not creative at all but you love to draw, paint, act, cook and dance, among other things. In fact, you've been begging me to let you take Hip Hop and we finally found a class for 5 year olds. You love it!! Even when the teacher takes a break or the music stops, you're still dancing. Your excitement is infectious.

I may be biased but you're an incredible little boy and people enjoy being around you. I pray that you will continue to grow and share that big heart of yours and bring joy to the people you encounter. I am beyond blessed to have you as my son and I love you with all of my heart.

With an abundance of love and adoration,
Mommy

Levi is 4 months!

2011-09-13T18:24:00.000-07:00

Sweet Boy -
What a fun 4 months it's been! I have to say, this has to be one of my favorite stages - you interact, smile and coo all while staying in one place. I don't think that will last long though because you're starting to squirm a bit and want to stand up often. You're such a happy boy and have really started to giggle and laugh when talked to. You're still not sure of Tate but you've warmed up a bit more to Tripp. You're sleeping like a champ and go to bed at 8pm and wake at 7am. I'm fortunate because with Tripp's bus schedule and Tate's whatever schedule, if you didn't cooperate like you do, our mornings would not be as easy going as they seem to be so far. As soon as I get Tripp on the bus, I come in to see you smiling and looking around and ready to start your day. You're still sleeping in out room but I plan to move you to yours in the next few weeks....hopefully. My hesitation? Your sister. I don't know what she'll do to you if I leave you up there and she knows you're there! I didn't think I'd need it but I may need to go invest in a video monitor just to keep an eye out on her. You're right on schedule at 15.1 lbs (80th percentile) and 25.5 inches (75th percentile) and love to eat every 3 hours. I haven't started you on formula or cereal yet but that's not too far down the road. I have a feeling you're going to love food! You're very alert and love to be sung to. We sing 'Wheels on the Bus' and 'Itsy Bitsy Spider' all of the time. You're just so stinkin' sweet and lovable - and I'm sorry but I'm not going to apologize for kissing all over you like I do. You'd better get used to it because it's not going to stop! I love my sweet boy and look forward to watching you grow and develop even more in the days to come.

Kisses from mommy always.

Independent Woman

2011-09-10T18:24:00.000-07:00

Preface: Mommy could not make this up!

I went to my friend's 3rd birthday party at the Children's Museum today and if you've ever been there, you understand the chaos. Of course in my princess Tate fashion, I ran off and had mommy looking for me from time to time. At one point, mommy couldn't find me for awhile until one of the museum workers asked if her 'name was Elizabeth and if she had a daughter named Tate', to which mommy replied, 'What did she do'? Come on mom! Give me more credit than that. Geesh. Anyway, he told her I was playing upstairs in the 'Tinker Room' and when repeatedly asked where mommy was, I finally turned around with hands on hips and said............

'My mommy KNOWS where I am. I'm an independent woman!'

It's soccer time!

2011-09-10T04:15:00.000-07:00

This is Bubba's second year to play soccer and Emmylou, Sofia, Tom, Ali and Charlie are on his team. They're the tornadoes and get ready for some fancy foot work on the field!

The New Do

2011-09-09T18:36:00.000-07:00

If a brush comes near my head, I scream. I am a bit dramatic, after all. I don't care that my favorite Rapunzel brushes her long, beautiful hair.....I don't like my hair brushed and I make sure everyone knows it. Except for Miss Connie. I let her brush and braid my hair. Go figure. My hair gets in my way when I'm eating, gets lots of knots when I twist it to death at night and no amount of detangler seems to help. So, mommy had enough today and after school, took me to see Miss Leti.

Before

After. As you can see, I didn't want to really cooperate with the 'after' photo either but it's pretty cute when it's fixed. Mommy wants to go shorter but daddy may have a heart attack if she does.

If you take a bear to school..........

2011-09-09T07:27:00.000-07:00

Look who went to Kindergarten today! Mrs. Olson told everyone in Tripp's class to bring their favorite bear to school. The bears enjoyed circle time, recess and even a teddy bear picnic.

Ballet

2011-09-08T04:14:00.000-07:00

I had so much fun in ballet camp this summer that I wanted to take ballet class this fall. Since mommy thought I looked so cute in my ballet outfit, she went ahead and signed me up. My sweet friends, Kate and Bela, are also in my class! Today was our first class and we'll start learning all of the numbers for our recital in May. Can you imagine the fun (or according to mommy, the chaos with a room full of 3 year old ballerinas)?

Tate and Kate (Bela was sick for our first class)

Tate's First Day of School

2011-09-07T19:31:00.000-07:00

Today is my first official day of preschool. Last year I was in Children's Morning Out but that doesn't really count. You may remember I was supposed to be in the Cherry 2s Room but after some switching around - a very very long story - I'm now in the purple 2s room with Ms. Marci and Ms. Karen again! Of course, Miller will be right along side of me. Not happy about something

Home grown manicure

2011-09-06T18:33:00.000-07:00

This morning while everyone was sleeping, I found my way into a bottle of Mama's pink nail polish and decided to give myself a manicure and pedicure. Considering I did this all by myself, mommy doesn't think I did half bad!

Look out Below!

2011-09-05T19:20:00.000-07:00

All 3 of us were nestled in bed sleeping sweetly until mommy and daddy heard Bubba yell, "Daddy!". They waited but then went back to what they were doing realizing Bubba was just dreaming. A few minutes later, mommy heard water running and looked up to see Bubba, with pants down, tee-teeing from the top floor down to bottom. When he was done, he pulled up his pants and went back to bed. Mommy and Daddy had quite a mess to clean up and Bubba never knew a thing about it.

First Texas A&M Game

2011-09-04T19:21:00.000-07:00

This weekend we went to College Station for the first Gig 'Em Aggie game of the season. We played SMU and won....of course! Bubba and I are old pros, but this was Levi's first Aggie game. He wasn't sure what to think of the crowds and all of the cheering but I really think he liked the band. We had lots of fun with our friends at the game and can't wait to help cheer on the Aggies to a winning season in the Big 12. In fact, it might be our last year in the Big 12 because rumor has it, we're heading to the SEC.

Passing of the Blog Torch

2011-09-02T19:11:00.000-07:00

Since I'm so big now and in kindergarten, I think I'm 'just too busy to keep up with this 'blog stuff'. I'm not around much during the day to accurately report on what my sister and brother are doing so, with that being said, I'm now passing the blog torch to my little sister, Amelia Tate. I know she will do a great job keeping every one posted on our day to day activities!

Meet the teachers

2011-09-01T19:03:00.000-07:00

Tatie starts school soon and is going to be in the Cherry room 2 days a week. Today was 'Meet the teachers' day and she got to go check out her new classroom while mommy talked with the teachers about the upcoming school year. Her teachers this year are Ms. Arline and Ms. Becca and she felt right at home and didn't even want to leave after the 15 minute meeting was over. She'll get to go back soon enough and I hope her new teachers are ready for the tornado!

Ms. Arline, Tatie and Ms. Becca

In LOVE with the pink kitchen

Another tooth!

2011-08-31T18:59:00.000-07:00

At dinner tonight, I lost my 2nd tooth....and didn't even know it! Emmylou told me my mouth was bleeding and when mommy looked at it, she noticed my tooth was gone. I didn't even know I lost it! After searching high and low, we came to the conclusion that I swallowed the littler bugger. When we got home, mommy helped me write a letter to the tooth fairy explaining what had happened and I apologized for not having a tooth to give her. She must have liked my letter because the next morning, my letter was gone and she left me $2.00!

The Snack Bandit

2011-08-30T11:05:00.000-07:00

I think Tatie's new nickname is the snack bandit. She gets into everything and is quiet as a mouse! The other night, daddy got in late from a trip to find her quietly sitting in the middle of the kitchen floor eating a croissant. Mommy also found her eating a croissant in the back of the closet. The other morning, mommy found root beer float bar wrappers in the living room with no root beer float bars to be found but the evidence was all around her little snack bandit lips. And then the next day, mommy asked Tatie what she was doing and she said, 'Eating a root beer float bar. Wanna see?'. At least she's honest. After Tatie's nap, she found sea salt almonds in the bed. I promise mommy feeds her!!

Atlanta Visitors

2011-08-26T11:04:00.000-07:00

Mommy's dear friend and business partner when we lived in Atlanta came to visit us for the weekend. She brought little Abby and we were so excited to see them! Tate and Abby were fast friends with all of the same hobbies in common - princesses, pink, dancing, whining, sneaking into the oreos, you name it. It was a fun visit but way too short. We can't wait for them to come visit us again soon!

Left Behind

2011-08-24T11:04:00.000-07:00

Today I was left behind at school. It's actually pretty funny because mommy didn't know about it in time to freak out but as she was walking to meet me at the bus, her phone rang and it was my teacher. Mommy sent me to school with a note on Monday saying she was picking me up from school but somehow in my excitement, I didn't actually give that note to my teacher until Wednesday! Of course, rookie mommy didn't date it so Mrs. Olsen didn't put me on the bus. After about 45 minutes when mommy didn't show up, she decided she should call and let her know I was safe. I loved it! Fortunately, Ms. Becca was close by and came to the rescue. While waiting, I had the whole classroom to myself including the computers leading Mrs. Olsen and mommy to think that I may have had the whole thing planned!

The Bus

2011-08-23T11:04:00.000-07:00

Mommy asked me what my favorite part of kindergarten was. My response? "Mom - what have I been so excited about since I was 2???? THE BUS!"

I love the bus! It's early but I don't mind so much. We're up at 6am and on the bus by 6:45am. Our bus driver is the best and it's fun to see my friends each morning. On my way home in the afternoon, I usually take a little cat nap and am soaking wet with sweat since there is no a/c and it's 105 degrees outside, but like I said, it's my favorite part of the day so far.

The Bed

2011-08-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

Here it is!

First Day of Kindergarten

2011-08-22T10:38:00.000-07:00

Mommy: Gulp! Me: Woo hoo!

I'm super excited about my first day of kindergarten. We had to get up really early but it didn't bother me because I was so excited to start my day. Mommy and daddy took me to school and after a few obligatory photos (you know mom), I was off to my new classroom. At pick-up, mommy asked me how my day was. I told her, "Mom, I loved kindergarten. Sign me up!". Maybe she had me in a few too many camps this summer. And....even though I brought my lunch in my new transformers lunchbox, I told her that I forgot I had a lunch and had to go through the cafeteria line. I couldn't help myself! It was just so tempting going through the line and picking out all sorts of goodies.......for free! Mommy explained later that it isn't free and so I'm limited to one school lunch a week but I can live with that. When I got home, I had a special delivery from Grammy and Gramps wishing me luck on my first day. This is going to be a great year!

Outside the kindergarten wing

Mrs. Olson

Special delivery from Grammy and Gramps

Rally Day

2011-08-19T19:13:00.000-07:00

Go Scotties! Today we attended Rally Day at my new elementary school (new to me) to find out who our teachers are going to be and see our classrooms. Afterwards, we all had a Popsicle celebration on the playground. My new teacher is Ms. Ols0n and I'm really excited for the school year to start but it really is bittersweet because my best buddy, Emmylou, isn't in my class. To be honest, I think it's harder for our mommies than it is us because we know we're going to still see each other all the time whether we're in the same class or not. Silly mommies!

Outside my classroom

Popsicle brain freeze

Meeting Baby Mila

2011-08-19T19:08:00.000-07:00

Gaby's new baby was born yesterday so mommy and I went to visit meet her. Her name is Camila Grace Holt and she is so precious and so tiny. She was one ounce smaller than Levi and it's hard to believe he was ever that small. Congratulations to Ms. Angie, Mr. Byron and Gaby! When we left, I told mommy I wanted her to have another baby. By her reaction, I don't think I'm going to get my wish.

Levi is 3 months old

2011-08-13T21:45:00.002-07:00

My precious boy, Levi -
You make me smile and you make my heart happy. You are such a sweet little boy with the most laid back demeanor. I guess you have to be considering your sister. Just remember, she really does love you to pieces! The past couple of weeks have brought tremendous change. You're smiling constantly and I've even heard a giggle or 2 escape those sweet little Levi lips. You still aren't so sure about your sister and brother being too close but you're getting used to it little by little. I'm so proud of you - you're sleeping like a champ! I'm cautiously optimistic but you've been sleeping from 9pm to 7am every night. Woo hoo! I had Tripp sleeping through the night at 10 weeks, you at 11 weeks and then there is the princess who took 6 months. My plan is to slowly transition you upstairs to your new room, but my main fear is your sister being in such close proximity to you and what she may do when trying to love on you. Maybe you'll stay in my room until you're 5 years old. That's not so bad is it? After all, you're my last baby and I want to savor every bit of it. You complete our family and I look forward to each day, week, month and year with you. You're my precious love.

All my heart,
Mommy

Trippism

2011-08-13T21:44:00.000-07:00

Mommy - let's go eat at the Chinese Lobster restaurant.

Final Day

2011-08-13T21:37:00.000-07:00

We leave Colorado tomorrow and enjoyed our last day together around town. We've had a wonderful vacation but are ready to be home to see our friends and get into a routine before......kindergarten starts next week. Don't even get mom started on that one!