OIB 2009

We just returned from a wonderful vacation at Ocean Isle Beach with Scott's family. We spent a week in the most awesome house at the west end of the island and we literally did not leave the entire week! Mimi and G-daddy spoiled us rotten with good food and lots of little treats! They planned a Steak n' Shake night, complete with hats and activities for the kids and a Hawaiian Luau with leis and Hawaiian skewers! It was a great way to wrap up the summer...I soaked up the smell of ocean air, sunscreen and my little beachy babes. I wish I could freeze the age of my kids right now...they love being with mommy and daddy and they are head over heels excited about even the dullest shell on the beach!

Like Father, Like Son

Charlie loves his Daddy, so much so that he likes to copy anything he does. I have a feeling golf clubs will be in this boy's near future...

On another note, people often ask how the research study at Duke is going. Well, we went this past week and got a glimpse of his progress. He gets bloodwork and skin tests every four months. While I don't see the results of the bloodwork, I did notice a big decrease in the reaction on his skin. I have to say that I did gain much hope from this appointment; however, there could have been many other reasons for this mild reaction. In December Charlie will have a food challenge and we'll get to see if he was on the placebo or peanut protein. Either way, I am really glad we participated in this study...it is pretty cool to be a part of something that could benefit many children in the future.

Lazy 5

To me, the Lazy 5 Ranch is one of the coolest places near Charlotte. We went Wednesday with the Barbers and Amy and I laughed the whole time. We decided that it is more fun for adults than children...the kids were scared of anything with horns and especially the water buffalo! Meanwhile, the moms almost cried from laughter after the llamas would sneak up on us and the water buffalo slobbered all over the window.

Is there crack in this thing???

Just got a new computer, its a Mac and I don't think I will ever go back! Anyway, I've been feeling a little addicted to this thing. I'm not sure if it is because I have not had a computer since May or because it is so cool, but I really love it!

Also, I got a free IPod with my computer so I think I am catching up with this century. Maybe Facebook and Twitter are next!

Dem Bones

Haley fractured her wrist on Friday...she was playing rough trying to keep up with a little boy friend of hers. She goes to the orthopaedist on Tuesday and we're hoping for a removable cast so she can still play in the water this summer! She was a brave little gal in the ER....she asked tons of questions and made my heart skip a few beats when she was asking loud questions about other folks in the ER waiting room! A four year old mind is amazing, they really do question everything!

Since I've learned of Libby Claire and Kate, I am just so grateful for each day of good health. My heart has been so heavy for both of their situations and hope you will pray with me for their complete healing. I love how both of these families are glorifying the Lord in the midst of their trial. I wish they were not going through this pain but I know they will live a much richer life because God will forever change them.

Pullen Park

Pullen Park was founded in 1887 and was the first public park in North Carolina. At the end of the summer, it is closing for renovations so we have had soaked up two great visits this summer. The park has a carousel, a train and kiddie boats along with all the normal playground equipment and a fantastic duck pond. Here are some pics from a trip with our cousins, Jake and Cole.

A day in the life of a 4 year old...

A couple months ago Haley asked me to get off the phone for something very important. When I asked her what it was, she said that she needed me to come to her room because Nemo is getting baptized. There are many times where I have to decide which beckons to attend to, this one was a no-brainer...

Scott took Charlie to Raleigh in May for a few days and I got to spend some good one on one time with Haley. She wanted to create something out of a shoebox that I was throwing away, so we decided to make a castle. This is what we created...