Lovable!

Feb-tastic Birthdays!

2012-02-07T20:33:00.005-05:00

It's time to kick off the February celebrations with back to back weeks of birthdays. Starting with Meredith (7th), then Grayson (13th), then Emmy (16th), then Michelle (22nd), and ending with Kelly (23rd). February is birthday-palooza for our family!

We spent the first weekend of February in NOVA. The babies, Grayson and Emmy, are less than a week away from their first birthday! It only made sense to have an early birthday party so the two could be together to help each other celebrate.

Grayson is eyeing the cupcakes!Big sister's making lots of noise.

ONE!!Happy Birthday to Grayson!Starting slow with a little lick of icingFollowed by the attack...Emmy diving right in too.Present time. Sisters love to help!Opening a cute book that spells out his full name along with a story about each letter.Emmy's turn

Saturday morning was play date in the de Windt playroom.

Fairy PrincessesBaby Super Hero and Baby FairyJust the beginning. He'll spend many more years chasing after girls. Saturday afternoon the girls got all dressed up in cupcake outfits for a friends birthday party.The hardest pictures to take but definitely the cutest! All four best buds together!We were also in NOVA for a shower for Baby Myers. My college girlfriend, Sarah, is due in April with a little boy. It was nice to visit with college friends, and sprinkle Sarah! Tira, Wendy, Sarah, Amanda, Michelle, Alicia

On the way home we stopped in Fredricksburg to have birthday lunch with Meredith. Today is my sister's birthday! Happy Birthday, I love you!

(I forgot to take a picture at lunch so I went to the catalog for help)

December's Merry Moments!

2012-01-01T20:16:00.013-05:00

My lack of posting in December was not because we had little going on, or because pictures weren't taken. Very much the opposite! Our days were full, starting with the very first day of December and the move back into our house in Winnabow, NC. So, the first weekend in December was spent moving. A big thanks to Aaron's parents for their help! It was also Aaron's birthday weekend. I took pictures of the kids holding up D-A-D and then framed them for Aaron's gift.

We found time in the middle of our move to see the Wilmington Christmas parade. We met up with a couple different families to take in all the action together.Maaike and CarringtonKids with Granny SimsMost of the gang. Parents, definitely outnumbered (8-11).The Man of the Hour - Santa!

Saturday, December 10 we had our annual neighborhood Christmas party. The same families that participate in supper club get together to have dinner, exchange gifts, and cookie swap.Kids decorating cookies

Gift exchangeSupper Club kids minus The Mercer's
Decorating the Christmas Tree in her skivvies!

Pictures with Santa - The classic "crying baby" photo

We had a girls night at "Dancing Girls on Ice" (as Carrington called it) with Melissa, Katy and Kelly. I wish I could have taken a video of Carrington dancing and spinning around during the entire, two hour, show. She was enthralled with the ice skaters, singing, and Santa.

A few days before Christmas my mom's small group had a Christmas party for the kids. I hosted the celebration, and was very excited to have friends over to the house once again. There were six moms and thirteen kids ranging in age from 6 months to 6 years old. It was very much a celebration about Jesus' birthday!

The youngest two. Grayson, 10 months old and Sam, 6 months old.Carrington and MaaikeGroup Shots

Sandy the Elf was loved by Carrington this year. She would wake up each morning and go on an elf hunt to see where Sandy landed for the day. Each night Sandy would fly back to the north pole and give Santa an update on Carrington's day. On Christmas eve, Sandy flies back to the North Pole to live with Santa until next Christmas. Carrington still asks daily where Sandy is, in hopes he'll come back and stay all year long.

Silly Sandy!Sandy left Carrington a note and gift on Christmas eve morning. He told her how much fun he had spending the month with her, and what a good girl she is.Saying good-bye to Sandy on Christmas eve night.

Christmas eve we spent together as a family, went to Christmas eve service at our church, had dinner at our house, and the kids unwrapped their one, Christmas eve present. It was the start of a tradition to spend Christmas at our house, attend our church's Christmas eve service, and have Santa come down our chimney.

How could I not love these two silly babies!Daddy loves them too! Including, Bear Dog.Christmas eve jammies. My parents did this for us each year so I'm carrying on the tradition with my kids.Reindeer (Sprinkles) Food!Leaving cookies for Santa. Grayson was already asleep so she covered for him. Notice, Sandy is patiently awaiting Santa's arrival.Santa's Late Night Delivery!Christmas tree with presents waiting to be opened.The children were nestled all snug in their beds. While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads. And, glow sticks shined bright in the night!

Christmas morning started with a photo on the steps. The silliness starts early with these two, and the excitement to see their gifts was over flowing. Santa enjoyed his cookies, Sandy was not left behind, and the reindeer ate all their sprinkles. So...it was time to see what Santa left.

A tonka truck and books for Grayson. A jumping baby, jewelry box, earrings, and scooter for Carrington.Trying out her new wheels.Ready to start reading.Loves his truck!Ready to ride!Christmas morning with the kids and dadChristmas morning with the kids and momCarrington the Red Nose Reindeer!

Around lunch time on Christmas day we headed out for the first of many Christmas stops. Roanoke to see Michelle's family was first on the list. Brett, Meredith and Madison met us at mom and greg's house for Christmas dinner and gifts.

Christmas presents!Cousins

Next stop, Aaron's parents. It was a low-country kind of Christmas complete with an oyster roast and fire pit.

Final stop, Myrtle Beach to spend time with Michelle's Aunt, cousins, and grandmother.

We hope you had a wonderful Christmas with your family and friends. Happy New Year and many wishes for a blessed 2012!

Love,

The Sims

Thanksgiving Beach/Staycation

2011-11-27T19:40:00.003-05:00

"Thanksgiving, after all, is a word of action." We had the perfect setting this year to celebrate Thanksgiving...the beach! Family joined us at the beach house for a day of eating lots of delicious food, playing on the beach, watching football, and taking turkey induced naps. With all that, what's not to be grateful for! It was also Grayson's first Thanksgiving!!!

Laid back kind of weekend.
Happy Grandkids with their Peep!

Grayson sampling the spreadHe ate everything on his plate, and had seconds!Mmmmm!!

Little Turkeys!

Poor Milo being forced into the ice cold waterHappiest when her toes are in the sandStrike a poseWalking off turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pie and all the other sides.

Still wading in the water on Thanksgiving weekend!It's hard work having so much fun! Passed out at nap time.

Beautiful Carolina sunset over the ocean...

9 Months Old

2011-11-15T20:01:00.001-05:00

Boot, scoot, and boggy! That's our Grayson! He's on the move and not looking back. It all happened so quickly; one day he's doing a little inch worm scoot and the next day he's crawling across the room, pushing himself up to sit and then standing up while holding onto furniture, us, or a toy. Literally, it all happened in a span of a few days.

Freedom, oh freedom, how it can change a baby's temperament. For the first eight, almost nine months, sitting and playing independently only lasted ten minutes, tops. Then it was time to pull out the fuss card until someone came to the rescue. With crawling comes exploration of the four corners of the world, or room. It's cool, it's new, and it keeps a baby entertained for hours. Aaron diagnosed Grayson's first eight months as a "mild form of colic". The cure, get off your tush and enjoy life!

He's got more than one, NEW, talent though. If you thought Carrington was vocal, and loud...meet, her brother. Squealing, repeating dada over and over, just trying to be heard over all the noise. He's even got "bye, bye" covered with the wave! He likes the attention and gets this adorable smile on his face when you notice him.

Food also gets a loud reaction out of him. If you find something he really likes; like ice cream, french fries, or mac & cheese than you better know how to shovel, and quickly!Otherwise, you are going to here the piggy squeal, loudly, between bites. I love a boy that can eat!

Some things have stayed the same over the last nine months. He's still my sweet, sweet little boy. He loves to be loved! He'll put his thumb in his mouth and head on my shoulder to cuddle. He's just as content sitting on my lap or being a "hip" baby as he is moving around. And, he loooooves his sister! She still garners the best laughs from him.

9 month stats...

18.15.5, or 19 pounds! Bumped him down to 20th percentile but happens when they are on the move.

29 1/2 inches or 75th percentile

A Birthday Party fit for a Princess!

2011-11-10T14:24:00.011-05:00

I love a third birthday! Carrington made it loads of fun this year which totally helped me feel good about things since I didn't sound the horns, channel my inner Martha Stewart (who am I kidding), and spend sleepless nights wondering how I could make every detail perfect. Making this birthday extra special was all Carrington's doing!
She was into turning three from the minute I started mentioning her birthday. She'd tell anyone that asked how old she was, that she was about to be three. And, move her fingers from two to three. I realized real quick that I could feed her broccoli with a candle on top and wrap up a brick with birthday paper and ribbon just as long as we called it, Her Third birthday! Who could do that to their sweet, innocent daughter though.
So, Princess themed birthday party, sign her up. Not a bad idea for the mom either. Do you know how much Princess stuff they have at Wal-mart!! Princess umbrellas, slippers, coloring books, dolls, hooper balls, games, books, underwear, plates, napkins - you name, they got it. I would know because we have it all now! Suggest having the party at an indoor jumpy house, the dare devils eyes just about bugged out of her head. Bet you can't guess how many times I got asked if "today" was her birthday party. Last, tell her that her family, and friends from Wilmington would be there. Who would have thought moving her to PA, locking her inside for a year, and not providing her the opportunity to see family and friends on a regular bases would cause so much excitement at the mention of human contact being present for her birthday. (Alright, alright, I write the blog so I get to insert my feelings sometimes.) You get the picture, this birthday was a script made for the story books!
Here are the highligths...

Princess Carrington
She got to pick out her cake. I think it turned out wonderful!
The decorations! Yep, don't blink cause you'll miss them.

Little Brian in action.

Love that Katy has no idea her sister is giving her rabbit ears. Such a classic picture!

All aboard the fire engine.

Grayson getting his first ride down a blow up slide.And, they are off! I had a hard time getting any pictures of the kids in action. They all moved so quickly that the pictures turned out fuzzy.

Cooling off and rehydrate. Family photo - it'll work but certainly not a favorite. Yes, Aaron and Grayson had matching shirts. I later regretted the decision and will not make them do that again. Hence the reason I didn't have Aaron hold Grayson!

Birthday cake time.Make a wish, Princess!

I find this guy a little frightening and so did some of the kids.

sweet little Madison

The Birthday girl and her handsome little brother would like to thank everyone for coming to Carrington's 3rd Birthday Party!

I'm going to sneak the actual birthday in this blog too. November 3 was spent waking up to breakfast pancakes with sprinkles, playing at the house, and then heading to Wilmington for a surprise at Toys R Us and dinner with our family of four. You tell a little girl that there is a surprise waiting for her at Toys R Us and she's going to tell you that she isn't taking a nap. There is no time for a nap with that kind of suspense waiting!! Funny, she fell asleep in the car before Grayson did!

The surprise!!!She wanted a, you guessed it, Princess bike but I had to draw the line somewhere. The Minnie bike was much cuter and more her size.

Grayson is putting in his first birthday order for a hot red car!

Birthday dinner on the water. Who needs Chuck E Cheeses or McDonalds when they can sit by the water and watch the boats go by. Maybe I never mentioned those two places as an option but this water child was content!

She hadn't seen Aaron in a couple of days so it was a love-fest for these two!

Ice cream with toppings (really it's yogurt). Yes, please!

Notice Grayson staring down the sweet treat in both photos. You should hear him squeal when you can't shovel it in quick enough between bites.

Enter the Barbie phase. MeMe has it covered and provided Carrington with Barbies that my sister and I use to play with, and some new ones to add to the collection.

Madison is playing birthday present patrol woman! Don't come near her!

Love these kids!

Happy 3rd Birthday, Carrington Lynn!

2011-11-02T20:28:00.006-04:00

The most precious little girl, who has blonde curly hair, with long beautiful eyelashes and green eyes, a smile that makes the best days even better, with a heart full of pure happiness, joy and kindness -turns THREE today!!

Carrington,

You are amazing! Love consumes you. The love you have for us, your parents, the love you have for your family and friends, and the love you shower your little brother with everyday; that's a love that only siblings share. The love you pour on him with your kisses, hugs, helpful manner, playful spirit, and big sisterly ways. Oh sweet girl, that brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it. The giggles just the two of you share, sweetest sound I have ever heard!!!! Love - you were gifted with it, you embrace it, and most importantly you share it everyday with everyone you come in contact with.

You have grown up so much in the last year. You are helpful, vocal, playful, empathic, creative. All things you've grown into over the last year. I enjoy the constant conversations we have. Your wheels are turning, your imagination is blossoming, your questions are endless. You think your parents have all the answers to all of life's questions!

I love to hear your prayers at night. Your purity is something I wish I had just one ounce of! You give thanks for the smallest gifts in life, they mean that much to you. I smile writing this because with your purity comes a large dose of spunk. They balance each other. You wouldn't be, Carrington Lym (that's how you say Lynn) Sims, without that spunk. It's what makes you wild, wide open, loud, daring, assertive, free to do what you want,when you want. You don't mind pushing it a little bit; you've got to in order to see how far you can go. You'll go a little past the safe zone, turn and give us that "look at me" smile, and then straighten it all out like you are a perfect angel. I don't think your daddy looks forward to the teenage years!

Oh girl (that came out of your mouth this week), I adore you! From the wild, child hair to the little pigs on your toes. God gave us a gift three years ago, a gift that we are blessed to call our daughter, our sweet precious first born child!

Your daddy and I love you, arms wide open from one end to the other, that much, plus that much, plus that much more! Grayson Walker Sims, he thinks you hung the moon, that you are the bees knees (maybe only for a short while, but at least for now)!

Happy 3rd Birthday sweet child of ours!

Daddy, Mommy, and Grayson!

Halloween 2011- The Wizard of Oz

2011-11-01T20:28:00.008-04:00

There's no place like home! It didn't dawn on me until I sat down to write the blog that our Halloween theme was very appropriate for our life right now. I have to say, I think my kids and husband rocked the Oz. At the last minute I tried to switch to the Scarecrow, but "Dorothy" would not hear of it. Unfortunately, "Glenda" couldn't find a pink, fluffy, dress so I wasn't as spectacular as the rest of the family.

The tornado blew threw and dropped us off in Winabow for a neighborhood Halloween bash. This was the first annual neighborhood bash and I think it went spectacular. A cookout was the first stop, followed by haunted house, and then trick or treating via trailer hayride. There were kids of all different ages - representing every fairy, super hero, and movie character you could think of.

The Sims do Oz...

Younger kids in the neighborhood The Lion was not in a happy place so getting a good picture of the two didn't go well.
Trailer hayride - The kids would hop on after each house.

Charlie (bumble bee) and Carrington (Dorothy). Charlie's family is renting our house. I think these two are going to become good friends.

Trick or Treat!

On Saturday there was a tripped planned to visit the pumpkin farm but the chilly, rainy weather didn't make that possible. Instead, we made soup at Bonnie's house and waited for the sun to come out before we headed to a church that was selling pumpkins. We stayed long enough to get a few pictures and let the girls pick out a small pumpkin.

Carrington and Charlie Hayden and Carrington sharing the love.What Halloween wouldn't be complete without pumpkin pancakes. Grayson is expanding his meals so he got in on the yummy treat too.Pumpkin faced pancakes - better than the IHOP!Wild - all the way around!

The tornado came back to town on Halloween and took us to Myrtle Beach for pizza, wings, and trick or treating with our family. Just like Carrington's first Halloween, she went door to door with her cousin Kelly. Grayson was in better spirits this time and stayed bundled up with his daddy. It took us an hour and a half to make it around the neighborhood via walking and wagon riding. We now have enough candy to last us until next year!

There's no place like home. There's no place like home. There's no place like home.Cutest lion in the forest.Precious!The lion found his courage and is now crawling!!!

Dorothy and Miss Gypsy

Teenage Zombie and Miss Gypsy

Trick or Treat!We're off to see the Wizard!

The lure of the beach - Visit with the de Windts

2011-10-29T21:26:00.007-04:00

It didn't take long to get our friends to visit at the beach. We couldn't beg them to come to PA but after a short week in NC, our friends came a calling. I can't blame them and love that we got to spend time with the de Windts, our first visitors to start the train.
The visit was also an early birthday celebration for the soon to be three year old, Miss Carrington. She loves a birthday, especially when it's hers! Thank you for the fun new gifts.
The older girls had non-stop fun together. While the younger two siblings sat back and watched the whirlwind around them.

Absolutely astounding that we got all four to look in the same direction!
The babies don't get nearly enough photos when their sisters are around. So, I'm starting this post by showing them off. They did a much better job sharing their toys than the older two.

Porchin' it for breakfast.

Carrington's princess "hopper". A perfect birthday gift for a little dare devil.

Giselle's turn

Stay off the road when these two are behind the wheel!

Halloween craft time.

Younger siblings being used as real, live baby dolls by their older sisters.

Carrington sharing her love of the beach with Giselle.

Love their little hiney's sticking out

Flying towels - Great imaginations!

Goodbye PA, Welcome Home to NC!

2011-10-24T20:53:00.004-04:00

Our 10 month stint in PA came to an end during the middle of October. It was a move that we knew was coming as Aaron took a new position in September that would take us back to the Carolina's. But, we ultimately decided to leave on a Monday and a were out of there by Saturday. Yes, packing with Aaron on the road, two young kids, a crazy dog, and a house full of too much stuff was...NUTS! My motivation to be back at home, sitting on the beach, and back with family and friends got me through the week. Aaron had help loading the truck from two very awesome friends. Unfortunately, all our stuff would not fit into the truck and Aaron had to make a second trip to PA to load the rest and bring it home - a thirty hour trip, twenty of which were spent in the car!

One last trip to a local creamery in PA!

To say the child likes ice cream is an understatement!Mini cones, such a great size for toddlers!Headed SOUTH! Dreaming of sunny skies and sandy beaches.
A small viewing of all the boxes.

Empty Moving Truck

Stuffed full...The largest one available without needing a CDL to drive something largerWe left PA in the gray, rainy, 50 degree weather and came home to sunny, and almost 80 degrees. Baby boy stripped down pretty quickly.

Hello BEACH, WE LOVE YOU!!!!To say we are happy to be back doesn't even come close to the emotion we are feeling. Perma-grin has been on my face since we arrived home. We spent the first week just like I had hoped. With our family and friends, on the beach, back at the church we love - right where we left things a year ago. Yes, my heart is full and thankful!

Roba Family Farms - Dalton, PA

2011-10-24T20:11:00.009-04:00

Roba Family Farms was our last family outing in PA. Carrington's preschool class took a trip there and invited family to come along. It was probably my favorite place and activity we did in PA. The farm is very large, has lots of neat activities, and plenty of fall spirit!

Carrington enjoyed feeding the animals. Normally, this isn't one of her favorite things but she was more willing to stick the ice cream cone out there and let the animals nibble.I love the "cheese" smile Grayson is putting out there. It is so his sister!Nothing runs like a Deere!Boy, oh boy did Grayson love sitting on the tractor. He had a smile on his face the entire time.Daddy test driving his future lawn mower...he wishes!!Country girl!Caught in the web

Having a snack with a couple of preschool friends

The pig races...Almost three feet tall for the almost three year old!

Boo!!

She loves this kids of stuff. The riskier the better for our little girl!Sleepy little BOO!

Our last stop at the farm. To pick out a pumpkin, of course! I brought our PA pumpkins to NC so they could warm up and get some much needed sunshine.

Happy 1st Birthday, Madison!

2011-10-20T14:07:00.009-04:00

Grayson and Carrington's cousin, Madison Lynn, had her first birthday on September 27, 2011. She had a "monkey" themed birthday party held outside at her house. Family from both sides and local friends came out to help her celebrate a very special day.

The Birthday Girl!Family and Friends Opening her gifts

Birthday cake time!Yummy stuff!Helping her get a bigger bite!Which turned into a cake fight for the grown ups...Future Trooper???Happy 1st year to my sweet niece! Your aunt loves you and looks forward to watching you grow up with your cousins.

Belly laugh

2011-09-27T09:32:00.000-04:00

Grayson got the biggest kick out of his sister splashing him with water. Love, love his laughter!!

Summer days driftin away...

2011-09-18T20:12:00.006-04:00

As the summer comes to an end there are a few pictures and weekend events that deserve notice on the blog. They were our end of summer days/weekends where the weather was still warm and the days long.

spending time togethernothing like some chocolate for a good midmorning snack
workout buddies

We headed to Chautaqua, NY for Labor Day. The de Windts have a family summer home there so we met up with them for the long weekend. It was a laid back, catching up with good friends, letting the kids run wild kind of weekend. The lake was our scenery so it was only right that we spent some time on the boat.

They even had a beach!If the girls weren't in their bathing suits, they were in their undies playing in the sand box or the "kids" room at the house. They have no problem keeping each other entertained and spent every waking moment together. Just for the record, the adults had just as much fun but that really goes without saying!

The following weekend we were back in PA and signed up for a 5k. Susan G Komen was the cause and means a lot to Aaron because his mom is a breast cancer survivor. The race gave an option to run or walk. Aaron thought we were in good enough shape to RUN! We did zip.zero.zlich training - just woke up that morning and ran 3.2 miles for the first time in, well, ever! At least it felt that way when I was ifinished. Needless to say, the rest of the weekend was spent on the couch. All complaining aside, we had a really good time! Carrington and Grayson rode in the double stroller while Aaron did all the grunt work. Carrington was just as proud with herself for finishing the race as we were with our effort.

Aaron's coworker, Kwesi - Azek had over 30 participants

A mouthful of oranges. She needed to rehydrate too!

Notice who is wearing the medal!

Before the warm weather ran out we hit up several parks around town for picnic lunches and lots of outdoor play. College football has started so the family is usually in Clemson or VT t-shirts on Saturday! Thankfully, Carrington loves watching football because it's the only thing that airs in our house on Saturday. She yells at the tv just as loudly as her dad and mom. Defense and key play are becoming a regular part of her weekend vocabulary. Grayson's next word should be HOKIES!

7 months old

2011-09-14T20:34:00.001-04:00

This month Grayson is going to give his update via true confessions behind the video camera. You'll see below that his vocabulary has begun with two words that bring smiles to his mom and dad's face. Even if he only says mama when he is crying. Yes, he knows how to get what he wants! (I just started posting video and I can't figure out how to get both videos on one blog, see "DADA" blog for the second half of the 7 month update.)

From the picture below you can see that he is now sitting up unassisted. He's also getting up on his hands and knees but no crawling at this point.

Now, on to Grayson making his debut...

DADA

2011-09-14T20:12:00.001-04:00

First Day of Preschool

2011-09-12T19:00:00.002-04:00

And she's off...

What a fun and exciting day for Carrington! Today, she started 2 year old preschool at Keystone College Preschool. We've been preparing for this day for a couple weeks so little miss independent was more than ready to go at 7am this morning! School doesn't start until 9:15 am so the wait was almost more than she could handle.She posed for a couple pictures at the house before running to the car, yelling "let's go to preschool".Our pretty little preschooler!It's nearly impossible to get both of them to look at the camera at the same time so getting a smile too is out of the question.How do you make a teacher happy? Bring them an apple, of course!She could barely carry both bags hence the strained look on her face.The book bag did not leave her hands while we were driving to school. You would think it was full of candy!Daddy surprised Carrington and showed up to walk her in. She was so excited when she saw him pull up that she went running across the street toward him. Thankfully, there was a crossing guard and no cars coming.Carrington walked right in like she owned the place. Or more like she had found Disney World. It looks like preschool will rank up there with McDonald's, babies, and the beach - all of Carrington's favorites. She had no problem finding her name on the cubby and then finding her name tag...I was very impressed she was able to pick out her name!They have to wash their hands immediately. Hopefully, this will help her stay healthy during cold and flu season.

Aaron and I tried to say goodbye twice but once she was in the room of toddler awe, there was no looking back. She would not acknowledge us so that was our cue to leave.

So what did she do during preschool...

Grayson's First Bite

2011-09-07T11:03:00.004-04:00

Shortly after turning six months old Grayson took his first bite of food. He'd had a little practice with ice cream and sucking on fruit but not an entire bowl of pureed fruits and veggies. It was what you would expect from a first meal experience - messy and entertaining to watch. He has now entered the world of food,carrots being the first on the list, eating a morning and evening meal each day. With the exception of green veggies all other foods have been met with an open mouth and clean bowl award.

6 months old

2011-08-23T15:49:00.006-04:00

Can you believe I've been here for 1/2 a year? It's crazy, especially, when you think of all I've done in six short months! I've traveled up and down the east coast more times than most people do in a lifetime. Been to beaches in NC and SC. Hiked in the mountains of PA. Had my first taste of chocolate at Hershey Park, PA. The list goes on and on. My short life has been packed full of first experiences, new sites and sounds, and loads of fun!

If you think traveling is all I've been up to than let me tell you more about me. I'm eating food now! Boy, oh, boy does it taste good. The noises, faces and mess I make bring lots of laughs to the dinner table. I'm sure that good time will wear off once I get older! I'll be getting in trouble for spitting my food instead of getting smiles from them.

The world sitting on my bottom is a lot more interesting. Sitting up really helps me see around, helps me look at all the people that walk by - allowing me to brighten their day by giving them one of my big toothless grins.

Sitting up also gives me the opportunity to ride in my stroller without being strapped into the car seat. Oh, the relief! I can not stand the car seat. I'll take any other mode of transportation but please, not.the.carseat!

And then there is my sissy! I like to write about her alot. The reason, she is my sidekick (or I'm hers). We laugh at each other, see who can scream at mom the loudest, and have competitions to see who can make the biggest mess with our toys and food. She's good at taking toys out of my hand and tattle telling when I get a hold of her hair, pulling with everything I've got. Each day gets more fun with my big sis - love you!!I had my six month check up today. I'm no slouch, weighing in at 17.12 and 27 inches long. If I keep those stats up I'll be ready to play college football at Virginia Tech (Daddy's edit: only if he can't get into Clemson!) when I'm eighteen! Doc says, I'm healthy as they come and he'll see me at nine months.

Don't hate because I'm a handsome, jet setting, hunk of baby love (mom hijacked my blog and wrote that)! Life's goooood for this six month old. Signing off on my six month update!

Peas, love and lots more happiness to come,

Grayson

Summer at the Beach

2011-08-17T10:32:00.011-04:00

The kids and I spent a lot of time at the beach this summer! It didn't start off as the plan but after a little taste of the beach in early June, I knew I needed more. With lots of beach time came lots of windshield time. From June 1 - August 14, we were in PA for only 2 1/2 weeks. We drove back twice to see Aaron, repack, and load up again. The kids did pretty good with the travel although at the end Grayson ran a fever for over a week, which caused him to be fussy and not sleep well. He was told by the doctor that he had vacationitis! I could have stayed forever but being at the beach kept us away from Aaron and by mid August, we were all craving some family time!

Beach bummz!

Over the 4th of July week the Sims and de Windt kids were in Myrtle Beach. We met up at the de Windt vacation villa for swimming and beach action.Looks like they are trying to hold hands!Cousins on mommy's sideHappy 15th Birthday to Katybug!The kids and I spent a week in Ridgeland with the grandparents. Carrington was out at the pool, in the river, or at the beach everyday. Grayson worked on his love of swimming with his Granny. Kelly joined us a for another week of vacation (in total she was with us for over a month this summer!!).Cousins on daddy's sideCan you find Carrington? She got to take a tube ride with the big kids!And they are off...(the little head popping up is Carrington)Spending time with my little girl. Grayson stayed home with the grandparents so it was a nice relaxing boat trip for mommy and good one-on-one time with Miss Carrington.The Captain and his first mate!Lovin on her uncle PaulPlenty of time was spent swinging to keep Grayson from fussingThe last leg of our summer beach fun was spent back in Myrtle Beach. We rented a beach house for the week. My parents and grandparents were there too. It was great to be in walking distance of the beach and spend one last week so close to our favorite place!

Taking a late afternoon nap on the couch. Kelly on one end and Carrington on the other end. Carrington loves her Kelly and stayed attached to her all summer!Peep and Granddaddy enjoying the good life!I dream often about the day we are living back at the beach permanently. Until then, I have lots of good memories from the Summer of 2011!

Crayola Factory and Hershey Park

2011-08-17T09:39:00.010-04:00

Back in July, Kelly came to spend time with us in PA during one of the rare weeks we were here. She visited during the hottest week of the summer when the temperature was at the 100 mark for several days. The house has no central air so we went in search of activities that could provide fun and relief. One of those spots was the Crayola Factory! The girls made many different arts and crafts, played in the museum and enjoyed ice cream to finish off the trip.

Writing on the wall!

Having fun at the ice cream store!The Land of Chocolate - Hershey Park! We took off on a Saturday for some sweet treats and amusement park rides. It was a scorcher of a day, we melted and so did the chocolate but plenty of fun was still had. Grayson rode his first ride, the carousel! There were plenty of kiddie rides for Carrington, and Aaron and Kelly had fun riding the big kid rides. Of course, chocolate was on the menu. After a tour of the chocolate factory we had a cookies and cream milkshake. One was not enough to go around so a second shake had to be ordered. It was Grayson's first taste of a yummy treat, he approved! Having sweet dreams after a long day....

5 months old

2011-07-14T21:53:00.002-04:00

Grayson is away on vacation right now. He turned five months old on July 13, 2011. He has had a lot of fun on the road during the last month. Not a lot of changes in his world from month four to five. He continues to be a good baby, grow, and sleep well. He really loves on the family time with his grandparents, aunts/uncles, and cousins. Look for his six month update to be full of information!

Strawberry Picking and Waterfall Hiking

2011-07-01T08:22:00.004-04:00

It's strawberry season in PA so we hit the farm to pick a bucket of the sweet, summer berries. The weather was chilly and wet, felt more like pumpkin picking season, but we were able to enjoy a morning on the farm. A tractor ride took us out to the field and where we were given a row to pick as many strawberries as we could. Carrington didn't have much to do with picking them off the bush because the ground was wet and dirty and she's not much for getting her hands messy. I had Grayson in the carrier so Aaron did most of the work. When we (or Aaron) finished picking we headed back to the farm house for a homemade slushy treat and some berry eating. So, what did we make with our strawberries....Strawberry Milkshakes!!

Carrington's favorite part!!

There are several state parks around us that offer a wide variety of outdoor activity. One in particular, Ricketts Glen, has many, many miles of hiking to waterfalls. We started with a picnic lunch by the lake with a "beach". Once again, the weather was chilly so we ate quickly while watching some crazy northerners swim in the lake (air temperature was in the 60's). This family doesn't like getting in the water unless it's bath water temperature so there was no way we were getting close. After lunch we set off on a 3 mile hike through the woods to take a look at four of the waterfalls. It was nap time so the kids feel asleep while Aaron and I enjoyed hiking and looking at God's beautiful creation. I love being outside and getting exercise in at the same time so this little adventure was a great one!

Minds on a Permanent Vacation. Ocean is my only medication!

2011-06-29T13:29:00.012-04:00

It's no secret that we miss terribly the ocean, hot weather and our family and friends down south. At the beginning of June we were able to get a dose of all the above. It was a much anticipated vacation and one we really loved taking. The kids and I headed to Roanoke a few days early to spend time with the grandparents and great grandparents. Then we headed to Ridgeland and HHI for our big family vacation. My side of the family spent a week in HHI. After a few more days in Ridgeland the kids and I hit the road for Wilmington to see some of our closest friends and then finally back down to Myrtle Beach for a couple days to spend time with my best friend, Amy. Of course, we saw Aunt Lissa, Granny Roach and the girls too! Shew-we, what a ride but well worth every mile!

Granny Peggy adores her grandchildren and we love her so much!
1-2-3...Jump!

The water was too cold for me so Carrington was trying to splash me - of course, her father was encouraging her!

Sims Girls

Nephew and Uncle

Rough life!

Grandson and Papa. These two loooove each other!

First shot of toes in the water!

The haze was from a fire somewhere in the area.

Hasn't stopped lovin the water!

Dippin' those little pigs in the sand and water.

Spent most of his days loungin' in the tent.

The Gang

That book must have been good!

MB crew - Jay, Melissa, Katy, Kelly

Showing off her 'kini and pigtails

Cousins - Their first vacation together!

Give me a smooch!

Pretty little lady! She use to spend the night with me when she was not much older than Carrington. That seems like yesterday!

Cousins

Oh, how I love these two!

Carrington wouldn't sit in the tree by herself this year but once Kelly jumped up there it was a whole other story.

Beautiful sisters

Mother, Daughter

Handsome Boy

Madison's juggling act

Yum,yum

playing together

One happy mommy - with her kids, on the beach.

5 year anniversary date - love him!

Play time at the beach.

The next few pictures were taken when Aaron was braving an Oyster Shooter Shot. It was a five step shot that proved to be hot, hot, hot! Aaron wasn't alone in taking the inferno shot - Melissa, Paul Sr, and Greg also took the shot but aren't pictured. Note...all were in tears before the end was near.

Just the beginning...

So hot he is drooling out the side of his mouth

Notice the glistening on his forehead

And again...

Almost there - eating the ginger to cool the heat.

Granny Sims on fussy baby duty.

Family dinner

Aunt Lissa and Uncle Jay with the girls

Carrington loves her Baylor

Favorite picture from the trip!!

One happy Sims family!

If Carrington could spend everyday with Baylor and Kelly she would be in heaven!

MeMe swinging with her grandbabies (and the dog who thinks it's a baby) before she heads home.

Berry picking in Wilmington with The Shaw Family

They wasted no time hitting the berry patch.

Five in the mouth, one in the bucket. That was Carrington's strategy.

The girls catching up over a bucket of berries

You would think there were full after eating their way through the field but it looks like they made room for more even after having ice cream

Supper Club with the ol' neighborhood gang. Carrington got to play with her favorite, neighbor friend, Miss Hayden

Carrington once again loving on her Kelly.

This was the one and only picture taken in Myrtle Beach. Amy and I tried to take a picture of our three kids together but they were not having it.

4 months old

2011-06-22T14:32:00.003-04:00

Grayson turned 4 months old while we were on vacation. We were gone for 2 1/2 weeks and he did a super job traveling, having fun with family and friends and SLEEPING! Sleep is great and at 4 months old he has mastered the art of marathon, night time, sleeping. Thank you, thank you!

He has also taken off in growth and is now in the 95th percentile in height at 26 1/2 inches and the 75th percentile in weight at 15lb12oz. That's up 2 inches in one month!!

He is more interactive with each day making his awake time a lot of fun.

I'm sure he is sorry that he didn't get to chime in on this months update but that's what happens when you learn to sleep. Sleep takes first priority!

Our baby can...

2011-05-23T13:29:00.003-04:00

The last two days have brought two new milestones for Grayson. First, we woke him from his early evening nap yesterday and found him like this...

Yes, our baby can roll!! When we put him back down for bed last night he immediately went from his back to his belly and has done so with each nap today. It makes me a little nervous because he puts his face in the mattress when we cries himself to sleep. Interestingly, we still have not seen him roll on the floor when playing.

Second, he is ticklish and laughs when you get his sugar (neck area) and his baby ribs. I love the sound of him laughing and seeing a big ol' smile on his face!

Sleeping update...I could kiss all over the pediatricians face! I needed his advice on not going in to get Grayson when he cries at night. The first night, Grayson cried all night but I didn't get him out of the crib until 5:30am (I couldn't make it to 6am after hearing him cry all night). It's been up and down, some nights he cries early on and doesn't cry again until 5:30-6:00am and other nights he'll cry in the middle of the night and fall back asleep until 5:30-6:00am. One morning he didn't wake up until almost 7am!! I think we've only made it one or two nights without any crying but he is on the right track. I think once he gets use to sleeping on his belly he will do even better.

With that, I guess our baby is trying to sleep, working hard on the "can" sleep!

3 months old

2011-05-16T20:12:00.004-04:00

Mom said I should just start with the elephant in the room... I.DON'T.SLEEP.AT.NIGHT. When I say don't sleep at night, I mean I cried more last night than I slept. The doctor prescribed mom a plan when I was two months old and it started to work. For a few nights I made it through the night. Then I got sick and the swaddle blanket stopped holding my arms in and now I don't know what to do with myself at night. It's really, very miserable for all. We went back to the doctor today and we have another sleep prescription (really, it's the same one as before but mom didn't follow this part). This time I eat at 8pm, take a bath, and then go to bed at 9pm. No earlier, no later. Same routine every night. And best of all, my mom and dad are not allowed to come in my room in the middle of the night. If I decide to cry from 9pm-6am, then I'm all alone with my swan song. Doctor says this should cure me in a few days and I'll be back to sawing logs. Mom said she'll post an update at the end of the week. Regardless, pray for all!!!

I've really grown into my facial characteristics and expressions in the last month. My newborn face is no longer. I'm just one, handsome, infant, hunk, now. I enjoy the sound of my voice and have been dubbed Chatty Chuck. My big sister is my new fascination. I could watch her run circles around me all day,every day. She makes me laugh a lot too. When I get fussy, mom has her come in the room so I can get a good laugh and forget about my woes. I have almost mastered rolling over but need to figure out how to get my arm out of the way. Mom got this great seat out for me a few days ago. Since I can hold my head up and it doesn't wobble as much anymore, I get to sit in the seat for a few minutes and look out at the great big world. I'm lovin the view!

My 3 month stats are impressive. I weighed in at 14lbs,6oz and am 24 1/2 in. long. This jumped me into the 75th percentile in both weight and height. Even more reason I don't need the two or three feedings I'm demanding at night.

Mom added some Mother's Day pictures to this blog. She doubts she will get a blog up about Mother's Day, which was wonderful for a wonderful mommy. She got treated very well that day and as always, enjoyed spending the day with her family.

See y'all next month,
Grayson Walker Sims

Two and a Half! Need I say more.

2011-05-05T21:42:00.004-04:00

Where to start! Okay - Hello, Baby Hollywood! She is everything you hear about being a toddler morphed into everything you hear about being a Hollywood superstar. She's got personality galore and spunk like it's her job. She can look at you one moment with big eyes and lots of love and the next minute be on the floor kicking, screaming, and crying - giving her best on screen performance. She is smart as a whip and too often is outsmarting her parents. Miss Smarty Pants loves to talk, sing, read books - just about anything that keeps her mouth running. Those verbal skills pay off though because she is often complimented on how well she speaks for a two year old. She has sweet, tender moments that remind us being a toddler isn't so bad. She holds onto our face and pulls us in for a kiss. She rubs our back when we hold her. She steals kisses from her little brother and she tells us she loves us several times a day. She continues to make me understand unconditional love. There's never a dull moment - it's always full of laughter, love and hair pulling fun!!!

A look back at the last 1/2 year...

Don't hate her because she is gorgeous!
Pretty day at the park

First kisses for her new baby brother

Valentine's Day 2011

One of many snow days in NEPA

Swim lessons with daddy

Christmas 2010

Thanksgiving 2010

Happy 2nd Birthday!!

Easter Weekend

2011-05-04T14:14:00.016-04:00

Easter weekend was a blast for our family! It was Grayson's first road trip and one that took us to MeMe and Peepaw's for a long weekend visit. We were beyond ready to get out of Pennsylvania as we had not traveled as a family since Christmas. The weather in Roanoke was gorgeous with temperatures in the 80's all weekend. Sunny skies and warm weather-GLORIOUS!

MeMe and Peep were thrilled to have their three grandchildren to love on and spoil. MeMe had a smile on her face all weekend! I loved spending time with my sister and niece. It makes holidays even more fun with the little ones!

I captured lots of moments from the weekend but boy is it hard to get three youngins to look at the camera. It made for some funny and memorable shots though.

MeMe didn't waste any time bringing out the gifts. Carrington couldn't get enough of opening eggs and seeing what was inside. After she opened the original eggs she had MeMe put more money and goodies in the eggs so she could open them again.
The sunglasses stayed on all weekend!

Lots of cousin lovin'

Small, medium, large

MeMe would give her grandchildren three baths a day if you let her

Look at that pitiful face

Center in the Square had an Easter egg hunt and meet-the-bunny event on Saturday morning. We missed the hunt...but not the BUNNY!

Love this one!!

Carrington was up early on Easter so MeME gave her a bath (shocker) and got her dressed before going downstairs to see what the bunny left. The Easter bunny was very generous to all three kids. Once again, Carrington thoroughly enjoyed opening each egg to see what was inside. Madison and Grayson were not left out on their first Easter. Mr. Bunny knew exactly what to bring each child.

Carrington's

Madison's

Grayson's

Each one enjoyed going through their baskets. The youngest getting a little help to see what they received.

The thrill of opening eggs!

Getting in some Mickey while the rest of us got ready for church. Notice the sunglasses!

Family photo time before church. Everyone looked beautiful in their Sunday best. Peep was already at church singing in the choir so unfortunately we didn't get any with him.

After Church it was off to Granny and Grandaddy's so Grayson could meet his great grandparents and extended family, eat some of Granny's cookin' and have an Easter egg hunt. My uncle is famous for putting a large bill in an egg, pretending to hide it and then sending the kids off to look for it. To date, the egg has not been found. Go figure!

If I can't open it, I'll eat it...

The next two pictures are my favorite from the entire weekend. I adore my grandparents and to see them with our children just warms my heart. Not to mention, the faces being made by the little ones are priceless!

A few more with Peep, MeMe, and their grandbabies. I love my family!!!

Easter Party at the Community Center

2011-05-03T20:59:00.006-04:00

At the beginning of April Aaron's parents came up for a visit. Their visit coincided with the Easter party at the Waverly Community Center. It was fun to have them join us for a morning with the Easter bunny and an Easter egg hunt.

Grandparents with their Grandbabies

Grayson taking in all the lights, noise and commotion.

Waiting for the Easter bunny

Watching him hop down the bunny trail

She had no fear of big, funny looking bunny

Although...this picture would make you think otherwise. A little scary all around!

Daddy and his little easter bunny

Carrington giving her classic "cheese" grin

Time for some egg hunting...

Eggstra-special!

Carrington's "cheese" grin

Take two!

Face painting...she wouldn't have anything to do with it once the brush touched her face.

Opening the eggs to see what she got.

2 months old

2011-04-19T13:29:00.004-04:00

I'm back! Here is the low down on month two...I went to the doctor last week and weigh in at 12lb12oz. That's up 2lb12oz from a month ago. I'm 23 inches long and hit the 50th percentile across the board. My new measurements bump me into 3-6 month clothes but I can't wear them yet because they're all spring and summer apparel. We haven't seen either yet so we'll wait until May and hope for a turn in seasons.
I'm doing alittle better on routine and sleep. I stay awake for about 1-1 1/2 hours between each nap. Now a days when I'm awake I like to coo, smile and make faces at my family. I can sit in my bi-brating chair (that's what sissy calls it), lay on my playmat or swing by myself for a longer period of time. But don't get excited by my independence...I still like to be held...A LOT! As for sleeping at night, I get up for an early am snack, around 3-4am, just about every night. Then I'm up again between 6am-8am. Usually, 6am because my mom dislikes getting up at that time the most. Last week the doctor recommended that mom cut back my early am feeding by a 1/3, and continue to cut back by an additional third each week until I'm sleeping through the night. I overheard here tell my dad that she likes that idea. To date, it doesn't seem to be helping! I'm still crying the blues for food when I should be sleeping.
I'm sure many of you are wondering what I think of my big sister. For the most part, we get along great! She does a good job taking care of my needs - otherwise known as fetching things for my mom like the burp cloth, diapers, etc. She likes to sit on the bed with me and make funny faces to get me to smile. She likes to kiss on me and tell me she loves me. AND-she even likes to be rough on me when mom and dad aren't looking. Mom tells me it's making me tough for the days she comes after me and hits me with kitchen utensils (knives excluded) or empty wrapping paper rolls, and plays a game called, "lets sit on me, cover my mouth and laugh hysterical all while I'm struggling to breath". Those were favorites of mom and aunt Meredith. I have a feeling Carrington doesn't realize, one day, I'll be twice her size and the hurtin' will be the other way around!!

I can't really complain - life is pretty good for this 2 month old!!

See ya next month,

Grayson Walker Sims

Just Another Day in Paradise

2011-03-30T14:06:00.007-04:00

I have to admit, week five of Grayson's life was a little difficult. Lack of sleep is catching up with me. So with lack of sleep, comes lack of patience. And, of course when one thing is off it seems like everything else spirals with it. Last week, Phil Vassar's song, "Just Another Day in Paradise" played over and over in my head. I was living out the song. Our washing machine broke and we spent Saturday morning at the laundry mat, with two kids, doing 12 loads of laundry (I do not exaggerate). The package truck showed up with my new jogging stroller, during nap time, and Bear decided he would go into protector Dog mode and bark, growl, and run around like a maniac. In turn, waking both kids early. While it wasn't the mailman bringing over due bills, it was a very pricey purchase that's still sitting in the living room, unable to be used outside because we live in the freezing Northeast, and instead is being used as a resting place for Carrington's toys. Carrington enjoys screaming at the top of her lungs, for fun, at any random time. Again, waking Grayson from naps. Grayson enjoys screaming/fussing/crying, I think for fun, almost all the time! Again, waking Carrington in the middle of the night or early morning. You get the picture. Life is "Just another day in paradise" right now. It's all a matter of how you look at it though. Because the other half of that song puts it back into perspective...

"Well, it's ok. It's so nice. It's just another day in paradise. Well, there's no place I'd rather be. Well it's two hearts, and one dream. I wouldn't trade it for anything. And I ask the Lord, every night, for JUST ANOTHER DAY IN PARADISE!"

Why I live in PARADISE, everyday!

Carrington decided her "friends" needed to hang out with Grayson.

Isn't she lovely, isn't she beautiful!

Baby Hollywood, looking glamorous.

Look forward to walking/jogging one of these days.

Grayson getting his first bottle and Carrington is right there to help.

Enjoy mini chocolate chips.

Can you see the chocolate around her mouth in these two pictures? She wore it for hours!

I love the way he is looking at her.

And, he still has that look on his face like he is irritated with his sissy.

My precious son!

Tummy Time

Bear didn't want to be left out of tummy time.

She is growing up too fast!

A Hint of Spring

2011-03-18T14:49:00.002-04:00

Glorious, Glorious, Glorious! That's the best way I can describe the weather the last two days. It might not be here to stay, or be back until May but it's sure been a welcome break from the other stuff northeast PA knows so well.

We met some new friends at the local park, had a picnic lunch and got a much needed dose of vitamin D.

One Month Old!

2011-03-13T15:14:00.003-04:00

Grayson Walker signing on. Mommy thought it would be fun to read about my last four weeks of life from baby handsome himself. So, what's been going on, you ask.

I sleep roughly 18-20 hours a day. It gives me a lot of time to dream about how much fun it will be to torture my sissy as I get older. When I'm not sleeping you can usually find me in my mommy's arms. She holds me while I eat, while I get my diaper changed, while I'm taking a bath, while I sleep and while I'm fussing at her because she tried to put me down for more than 10 seconds. I can't lie, I fuss just so I can be held. Good thing she likes holding me - like, when she is cooking, using the bathroom, trying to help my sissy with something, or wants to play on the computer. If you guessed that she is holding me right now, then you are right!

What other things do I like, besides being held? I'm not real sure yet. I think I like my paci but sissy likes to pull it out of my mouth and tell me I don't need it. She must be jealous because she gave her paci to the paci fairy. I might like a bath if my mom and dad could get the water temperature right, and stop pouring buckets of water on my head. I really like my family, actually, I LOVE THEM! My dad is my hero, my mom is amazing, and my sissy is my best friend.

What "firsts" have I experienced in the last four weeks? I went to Target when I was four days old, went to the park when I was five days old, took a bath around 2 1/2 weeks old (it took a while for my umbilical cord to fall out), and went to church with my family today. I'm sure there are a lot of other "firsts" but I sleep through a lot of them so I can't really remember.

Hope you've enjoyed a recap of the last four weeks. Mommy likes the idea of me doing a monthly update so stay tuned for month two!

That's all folks!!

Life at Home

2011-03-08T15:16:00.003-05:00

Some fun pictures of Grayson's life at home over the last few weeks. Included is his first bath!

All packed up and ready to leave the hospital for his first car ride.

Resting comfortably
Big Sister, Little Brother

Here's looking at you!

Laid back, at least for a few minutes.

What you can't see is that Grayson is starting to cry. Hence the concerned look on Carrington's face.

I'm getting the look to stop taking pictures and help give a bath.

Bath party has come to an end!

Still not happy about bath time.

Meet the Family!

2011-02-22T13:49:00.006-05:00

Grayson has spent the last week and a half getting to know his family - parents, sister, grandparents, and also had a quick visit from his Aunt Meredith, Uncle Brett and cousin Madison.

First things first, gotta look good before anyone sees me. Getting his suntan!

Meeting sissy and Mickey Mouse!

MeMe admiring her first Grandson.

I smell TROUBLE for Grayson with two girls to pick on him.

(Carrington @ 2 yrs and Madison @ 4 months)

Family of Four!

LOVE!

Lets see if he is as silly as her.

Precious!

They definitely have the same nose, eyes and lips.

Peep is so happy to have another male in the family!

Granny and Papa enjoying time with their grandbabies.

The grandmothers and their Sugarbean

Grayson Walker's Birth Story

2011-02-16T15:05:00.005-05:00

Grayson,
We welcomed you into the world on Sunday, February 13, 2011 at 2:56am. The beginning of my labor started on Saturday around 4pm. I woke your daddy from an afternoon nap and told him to start the stop watch because I'd had a few contractions. We timed them for about an hour and made the decision to finish packing bags, take showers, and make preparations for your big sister. I took my time getting out the door which made your daddy very nervous. We made it to the hospital around 7pm. It was quiet a shock to find out I was already 5cm dilated, 80% effaced, and ready to have you at "any time".

After a dose of antibiotics and more contractions, we took to the halls to try and progress labor and motivate you to make your entrance. The doctor also broke my water shortly after 9pm. You were content staying warm in the womb and giving me a run for my money. I say a "run for my money" because I thought I would give au natural, no epidural a try. After 5 hours of labor, little progression, and contraction pain that lead me to say, "I can't do this anymore", (your dad later told me that was the first time he had ever heard me say "can't")
the doctor showed up with the best medicine you can order. I was 8cm dilated at that point. An hour and a half later we were blessed with our little baby blue!

Grayson Walker Sims, baby handsome, weighed in at 8lbs, 1oz and 20 1/2 inches long.

I know you can see me but can you hear me!

On the way to the hospital. Last look at Grayson in my belly.

Getting settled into the labor/delivery room. Still smiling and thinking the delivery was going to be a breeze. Who was I kidding?
Anxious daddy!

Getting to know one another in person.

Proud Daddy!

Valentine's Party at the Comm

2011-02-09T19:56:00.004-05:00

The local community center has become our "go to place" for holiday parties and weekly Tot and Toddler play dates. Last Saturday was no exception. Carrington attended the annual Valentine's Party and I volunteered to bake muffins and work the cookie decoration station. Aaron was Carrington's Valentine date and helped her make Valentine's cards, play games, and decorate one very sweet cookie treat!

Mommy's Valentine Card!

Carrington's one and only date for a very, very, very long time.

My sweet loves, Carrington and Baby Blue at 37 weeks!

Bye, bye January...Hello, February!

2011-02-01T20:58:00.004-05:00

Recap of January...COLD, COLD, COLD, AND TOO MUCH SNOW! Well, that's the truth but there's been a little more happening in the great Northeast. We've been busy preparing the nursery and turning Carrington's room into a toddler room. Plenty of painting, furniture assembling, and decorating. We should finish both rooms in the next week and be ready for the newest arrival. I'll try and get pictures up soon. Of course, that will not conclude the house remodeling as we still have a few more rooms to paint, pictures to hang, and the last few boxes to unpack. Doubtful that it will all get finished before Baby Blue arrives but there's always wishful hoping.

We are trying to get plugged into the community, meet new friends and try out new experiences. We found a church similar to the one we attended in Wilmington, and have started in a couples small group. Carrington is staying busy with a weekly Tots and Toddlers group, swim lessons, trips to the library, and of course shopping with me. Aaron continues to enjoy work and we enjoy having him home every night!

We made a quick trip in early January to Virginia for Giselle's 2nd Birthday. The girls are double trouble together and honestly, are a little Wendy and Michelle in the making. They didn't stop playing together the entire time we were there and even had trouble taking naps and going to bed at night because they couldn't stand the time apart. Wendy and I got to spend time catching up, and talking about the upcoming arrivals of our new babies.

Double bumps.

Enjoying her cake!

Noise Makers!

Giving squeezes

Trouble at it's finest!

Snowy Days

2011-01-12T20:59:00.003-05:00

The snow has arrived in PA. Apparently, it's a little later than normal so I guess it was waiting for our arrival. Last week we got a few inches over a couple days and then last night and today we got another 6 inches. It took several trips to the store to pull together Carrington's snow suit but once the final purchase was made last Sunday, we headed outside to check out the white stuff.
Now, Carrington has made it pretty clear over the last month that she doesn't enjoy the cold. She is typically saying, "Brrr" before we even make it out the door. How can you blame her! She's spent the last two years living at the beach, not typically known for cold weather.
So, Sunday afternoon when the wind started hitting her in the face and the snow came right behind it, she was ready to go back in before we even started playing. Thankfully, after taking a ride on the sled her thoughts on the cold and snow were a little more excepting. She likes fun, excitement and speed. The sled was all those so contentment lasted a few trips down the hill. She even tried out making a snow angel with Aaron. All and all, she lasted about 15 minutes.
The same goes for today when I took her out on my own. She didn't make it off the porch before looking at me and said, "lets go in mommy." The wind and snow immediately hit her in the face and that was enough in her book. Once on the sled she was a little more willing to stay out. I even got a picture of her in the sand box or "snow" box as it's used in the winter.
She never once asked to leave the beach, get out of the ocean, or had a problem with the sand in her face. Guess it's not hard to tell where she would rather spend her time! Guess we are going to have to toughen her up while we are in PA!

Trying out her swim legs

2011-01-09T21:49:00.005-05:00

Carrington took a dip in the pool yesterday for her first swim lesson. We signed her up at the local YMCA for a two month class with Aaron. Carrington has loved the water since her first bath so starting lessons seems like a natural next step for this water baby.

Making their way into the pool.

Look at those kicks!

Big jump!

Having a great time!

Christmas in Dixie

2011-01-09T20:46:00.008-05:00

The Christmas Holiday took us on a 2,000 mile round trip from our new home in Dalton, PA to Roanoke, Va, Ridgeland, SC, Myrtle Beach, SC, our old house in Winnabow, NC, and then finally back home to PA. The time spent on the road was worth it to get to spend with our family. Our New Year's Eve plans got hampered by a stomach bug Michelle caught but other than that, the trip was a lot of fun.

There aren't many pictures past Christmas morning but plenty of memories were made. Carrington really got into the holiday spirit from learning and reading about baby Jesus' birth to understanding who Santa Claus is and what he does on Christmas eve. She was spoiled with presents from our entire family and shouldn't need a new toy or piece of clothing for a while.

Always has a cheery disposition

Listening to Peepaw sing in the church choir on Christmas Eve
Loves her Meme and Peep

Christmas Eve Family Photo

Putting cookies on the plate for Santa...

and treating herself to one too.

Cookies and Milk await for Santa's visit

Thinks she might sit up and wait for the big guy to arrive.

Reading a story of baby Jesus' birth and the Night Before Christmas (a Christmas eve tradition passed down from mommy to daughter)

Christmas morning...look what Santa left!

Reading the note Santa left Carrington.

Checking out the goods.

Santa's note and picture of the kitchen he left Carrington at her new house.

Dancing Mickey has nothing on Carrington

Getting a closer look

We've got Ears, say, "Super Cheers"

Aaron didn't want to be caught dancing alone so he took Carrington in his hands

Stocking stuffers...

Trying to find more goodies

Chapstick...a family obsession

"Oh goodie, there's more."

Minnie Pearl in all her glory!

Loves the bling!

and of course, the Chapstick

"Are these real pearls?"

Resting from all the weight she is carrying around.

Daddy's girl

I think she enjoyed having a "real" baby to play with...

and torture.

They were both busy watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. Carrington recommended Madison watch.

Carrington was so happy to be in SC were she could play outside and not freeze. I think she and Granny spent a couple hours in the fresh air before ever coming back inside.

Happy New Year! Hope to see our family soon.

Breakfast with the Big Guy (aka Santa)

2010-12-20T20:18:00.006-05:00

I had one excited little girl on my hands from the minute we purchased tickets for Breakfast with Santa. She talked about eating pancakes with Santa, sitting on his lap and asking for a new kitchen, and telling Santa, "Ho,ho,ho" for the entire week leading up.
Breakfast with Santa was held at the Waverly Community Center. It was packed with little girls and boys dressed in their Christmas best and ready to share their Christmas wishes.
Carrington really enjoyed every minute. She ate a yummy breakfast, played games and most important, saw Santa for the first time this year.

All smiles!

Merry Christmas, Love The Sims!

Eager to see Santa...

Check out the concentration

Another Carrington favorite, Frosty the Snowman

"Oh my goodness, it's Santa"!!

Checking out Santa or the beard (which needs some serious work).

"This guy is just so silly"!

"The real reason I'm willing to sit on your lap...to make sure you know I'd like a new kitchen, please"!

"Ok, I've had enough"

Carrington is singing a lot of "Santa Clause is Coming to Town" and is doing a really good job of not pouting or crying. I think Santa is very happy with her!

O Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!

2010-12-20T19:18:00.006-05:00

We went for the "real thing" this year. It's the first year we have purchased a live tree for decorating and admiring. In the past, we've used a hand-be-down tree from Peepaw's parents. The artificial tree is nice but since we are all about new adventures, it just seemed right to try a fresh tree.
There is a side-of-the-road tree stand right down from the house so that's where we went. The tree came from a local farm so it's authentic PA Frasier fir (watch out now). Of course, the sub freezing temperatures made it a quick trip...hop out of the car, find the best looking tree, hop back in the car, and let the men do the rest of the work.
We let the tree sit over night and then went to work on it the following night. Decorating was a team effort as Carrington was able to help a lot more this year. Last year, she was more interested in pulling the ornaments off the tree than putting them on the tree.
I love the tree and may be hooked on a fresh tree for the next few years. It's just lovely!

Aaron and Carrington sizing it up

It's way too cold out there for her southern blood

Lumber Jack Sims

Tree Decorating Elf in her Christmas PJS and ready to get down to business.

Ok, so maybe she wasn't up for putting the lights on the tree. She gets it honest as I was on the couch watching Aaron string the lights. That's just not my favorite part.

Hard at work while the women kept their feet up

Lights up!

Time to get to work!

Stunning, at least I think so!

Also decorating the house are the Snow Villages

Santa will be coming down this chimney in a few days. I know one little girl who can't stop talking about the new kitchen she wants from Santa.

And, a look at the outside

Koziar's Christmas Village - Lighting up PA!

2010-12-13T20:54:00.006-05:00

We wasted no time exploring the best of what PA has to offer, or so we thought. I found Koziar's Christmas Village in a local "Happenings" magazine and knew we had to check it out. After doing a little research and asking around at Aaron's work if it was worth seeing, we set off last Saturday afternoon for an adventure in lights.
It was a round trip of four hours so it was a little far but our other option was hanging around the house to unpack more boxes. The first two hours of the trip went smoothly, then we got within 6 miles of Koziar's and came to a DEAD stop. It's on a two lane road, in the middle of no where PA, so options of detouring were very limited. We started taking bets on how long it would take to go six miles. After passing our predictions on the clock three times we finally arrived in the parking lot at 8pm, six miles and two hours later we saw the "LIGHT". I had planned on us leaving Koziar's, full of glow, at 8pm. Not arriving at 8pm!
Bundled up, and trying to get back in the Christmas spirit, to the gate we headed. Only to get there and stand in line for 15 minutes to purchase tickets, and then another 15 minutes to wait for the restroom. Finally, at 8:30pm we were able to enjoy what we had come to see...LIGHTS, LIGHTS, AND MORE BRIGHT LIGHTS. But wait, it doesn't end with a warm glow but rather a wet soaker. By 9:30pm, the sky opened up while we were in the middle of the village and any last ounce of fun was washed away. There is nothing enjoyable about pouring rain and 30 degree temperatures. Especially, when we were all fighting colds and Carrington an ear infection.
You know the end of Griswold's Christmas, where Santa is flying off after the sewer explodes, and they all start singing the National Anthem, and it just seems so right. That's kinda how it was, nothing was right but it was. Merry Christmas!

Koziar up in Lights

Santa and His Little Elf

Do you see the traffic in the background?

My shining stars!

Mickey was even there.

Peepaw would have loved the Peanuts scene

Candy Store Window

The reason for the season!

November 3, 2010 - The 2nd Birthday!!

2010-11-08T15:53:00.007-05:00

After a week of pre-partying, the actual birthday arrived! So, what did she do on Wednesday, November 3, 2010...

She started the day in mommy and daddy's bed watching the one and only Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. No leaving Minnie out.

She put on her best party dress and grabbed her pocket book for some grocery shopping.
She opened birthday presents from her friends.
Thanks, Fletcher for the broom...

and princess cash register.

"Hmm, how do I get this one open?"

"I think I'll tackle it"

Thank you, Andrew for the dollhouse!

"These will look great on me and keep me very warm this winter" Thanks, Hayden for the Tinkerboat PJ's.

"Look Mommy, Piggy Party. How did Maaike know it's one of my favorites?" Thank you!

Food for the doll baby. Thank you, baby Cooper.

Minnie Mouse gets her full attention.

Totally amazed that the book has her name in it. Super cool! Giselle, thank you!

After presents, she went out to eat the best food ever invented, PIZZA!

She made a final stop at the Toy Store to purchase a new baby doll stroller.

And in true fashion...she took off running from her mom and dad!

Fitting that this picture would bring us to the end of her 2nd birthday.

What an incredibly, amazing 2nd Birthday Miss Carrington had and it looks like she is ready to run full steam ahead into the next year of life.

2nd Birthday Party at the Wilmington Children's Museum

2010-11-08T14:33:00.015-05:00

Carrington's 2nd birthday party was held at the Wilmington Children's Museum. It was the perfect location, as all the kids were constantly smiling while engaged in an activity of some sort. The theme of her 2nd party was "Painting". Each child was given a paint canvas and palate of paint to create their own master piece. I also included a large canvas for the kids to paint on that will later be hung in Carrington's toddler room. We loved all the color, fun decorations, delicious food, and good times!

Candy Creation Station
Artists delights

Painting extravaganza

A party fit for a princess

The princesses royal paint table

Sweets

The birthday party Sugarbean making her arrival

Two times the fun

"This is so exciting."

Paint Princess

Love!

Party guests...

Time to get messy and create a masterpiece!

No matter how hard I tried, paint ended up on the dress. I've washed it twice and it's not coming out. The price of fun!

Time to explore the children's museum...

Even the adults got in on the Arts and Crafts

Showing Baylor how it's done

Wrong kind of brush, Carrington

Making sure she doesn't have a fever

Young at heart!

Perched up high

Grocery shopping, a Carrington favorite!

They even had coupons at the children's museum

Checking out

What could they possibly be laughing at?

This goof ball!!!

Even I had a little fun!

Just can't wait until she is sixteen!

I think "1" Carrington is plenty!

The itty bitty babies had fun too...

Juice box, pbj, and chicken nuggets. A dream come true for the kids.

Telling Jordan what she wants for her birthday.

Birthday Cake -

Happy Birthday to Carrington!

Make A Wish!

Licking the candle stick

Decorating the cupcakes with sprinkles, half a bottle later she had a colorful creation!

Sweet endings to a perfect birthday party!

Thanks to all our friends and family for joining us at the Wilmington Children's Museum! Carrington had a blast with each of you.

Celebrating the 2nd Birthday - A Family Affair

2010-11-08T13:12:00.010-05:00

Carrington is so blessed to have a loving and large extended family. The masses started arriving several days before the birthday party to help Carrington make it a week of birthday celebrations! First to arrive was Brett, Meredith and Baby Madison. By Friday evening the entire gang (20 family members and 4 dogs later) was in town and ready to party with our traditional oyster roast and low country boil by the fire pit.

Carrington's newest cousin, Madison Lynn

Mixing up cupcake cones for the birthday party

What do you do after you mix up the batter...shove the entire beater in your mouth, of course. Yes, she is eating raw eggs. I've done this my entire childhood and adult life and never gotten sick. So, I'm using those odds with her.

Colors of the art palette
Tie dye cupcake cones

Madison is happy to over see the cooking.

Moving on to the paint and getting some practice in before her birthday party. I'm not sure Brett was the best teacher. By the time they were done, he had her covered in paint and in need of a bath.

Pretty sure Carrington is introducing Madison to Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.

Oh, we made a quick stop to the mall after gymnastics. Carrington lost her marbles the week before when she saw the carousel and couldn't ride because I didn't have cash on me. I knew there was no chance we would get out of the mall that day without a ride. Of course, MeMe was more than happy to oblige Carrington.

"Here is my pumpkin...

and here is what Daddy is going to carve on my pumpkin."

Katy and Kelly digging in

Bonnie and Hayden had on their matching Christmas aprons. Wrong holiday, right idea!

A fall treat - Apple juice, in a hallowed out apple, with a twizzler as the straw.

I really wish I had used my video camera for this portion. Brett and Meredith gave Carrington a Minnie Mouse cell phone earlier in the day and told her that Minnie Mouse would be calling later that night. Sure enough, at 7pm, Minnie Mouse called Carrington on the real phone and told her she was coming to visit. Next thing you know, in walks a life size Minnie Mouse with presents. Carrington and Hayden went crazy over the phone call and all the Minnie Mouse gifts.

Checking out the goods.

"Hey, Minnie. Want to be my buddy?"

I think that means, yes!

Thanks Brett and Meredith. That was a great idea!

Good family...

Good conversation....

Good food...

Good times by the fire pit. The reasons this time of year is my favorite.

"No way, these are all for me!"

We opened family gifts on Friday night so everyone could see Carrington open their gift.

As happy opening clothes as toys, for now.

Baby gorgeous thinks she is hot stuff in her princess crown.

You can't have a crown without the jewels.

Bitty baby she got from mommy and daddy

Of course, baby needs a place to sleep. Thanks, Aunt Lissa!

Checking her vitals with the doctor kit.

Cheese

BLISS!!!

Thank you to our family for sharing in all the fun of Carrington's 2nd birthday!!