The Brockwell Bunch

My Lil' Slugger

2010-06-10T19:28:00.000-07:00

Tonight was Gray's last game. As we were walking out the door, Colt got sick. Praise the Lord for PeePaw & MeeMaw! They were almost at the field, and they turned around and drove all the way here to pick up and take Gray to his last game. I was so sad that I missed it. Colt has been sick for the past two games, and he was fast asleep the time before. I haven't made the last three games, and Allen told me that Gray has really been doing well. I'm still SOOO proud of my lil' slugger!!! Way to go, Gray!!! Here he is sporting his new medal!!! I think my days of getting a normal smiling shot of him are over. HA!!!

Again with the "How you doin'!" HA!!! Love my boy!!!

Second Grade, Here I Come!!!

2010-06-10T16:35:00.000-07:00

Gray as he stepped inside from the bus on his last day of first grade. I have a SECOND grader!!! Can you believe it??? Check out the GIGANTIC Pixie-stick that his teacher gave him!!

I typically serve breakfast in bed on the first morning of summer break. The house was lively with lots of kids this year. Gray wasn't about to stay in bed when there were kiddoes here to play. He asked to be served on the couch with his tray this morning. What was his request??? Toast, eggs, and chocolate milk for my big guy...

So proud to be a 2nd grader!!!

Summer Fun

2010-06-10T16:15:00.000-07:00

AHHH... The first evening of summer break...

Nothing says summer like running through the sprinkler!

It took a little bit for Colt to get used to the idea.

Yes, I've relaxed a bit about the water guns.

This one cracks me up!!! Colt is watching intently as the water is just beginning to rise.

Can't you just hear the squeals of laughter with this one???

Gray is growing up entirely too fast!!! Seriously, people!!! Look how tall he is!!!

Colt left the water to come cuddle with his mommy in his towel. I LOVE this kid's smile!!! :)

WaAaAaAa...

DING DONG!!!!

2010-06-01T16:14:00.000-07:00

Can you hear those wedding bells ringing??? My lil' brother is FINALLY getting married!!! What's even better is that we LOVE Kathleen!!! She's a teacher with Jefferson County schools so she has had my respect from day one!!! Even better... She grew up with 3 brothers so she totally knows how to hold her own with Adam!!! HA!!! Don't hate, Adam. You know that you like to dish it out!!! You need a strong lady to put up with it. HA!!! ;)

the happy couple

A few weeks ago, my sister and I threw a shower to welcome Kathleen to our family. Here's a pic of our table deco... Can you guess the color of choice for the wedding???

Our spread of appetizers...
chicken salad puffs, potato salad bites, fruit and cheese skewers...

...veggies & dip, meatballs, and chicken/bacon nuggets....
YUMMO!!!

Kathleen with her family...(I'm not sure why the photo cropped the faces in the pic. ???) From left to right... K~'s grandma, K~'s mom, K~, K~'s god-daughter and flower girl, Hannah, and her mom and matron-of-honor, Heather... Let's hope little Hannah can rein in my two boys and get them down the aisle!!!

Shot of some of the guests...

...and another...

K~ opening our gift.... Melanie and I decided that since Kathleen comes from a family of boys that she needed some sisterly advice about what she could REALLY expect in a marriage. We thought long and hard about the perfect items to fill the basket. A few of them...

A roll of toilet paper... Get used to the idea of changing it... He's NEVER going to do it!!! HA!!!

A pair of tongs to pick up the dirty clothes that are strewn about the house...

Take-out menus for when you want the night off...

A honey-do list... Get him trained early...

The best part... a book called Pat the Hubby. The book is fully interactive. This particular page shows how you can help your hubby roll down his window to encourage him to ask for directions when he is lost. BAHAHAHAHA....

After K~ finished opening her gifts, we dove into the cuppie bar. We just happened to find a fabulous baker who could whip out seven different kinds of yummy mini-cuppies. MmMmMm...

Sisters... Sisters... There were never such devoted sisters...

SIDENOTE: I need to mention how much my best friend ROCKS!!! Jenn stuck with Mel and me throughout the entire weekend. Late night Friday night-prepping, Saturday-baking, cooking and decorating, and Sunday-helping us serve and even managed to have all of the dishes done before the final guest left!!! JENN, YOU'RE THE BEST!!! LOVE YA'!!!

#1 for Family Fun...

2010-05-28T13:59:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday, PeePaw & MeeMaw took our entire family to Holiday World. The last time we made the trek to Santa Claus, Indiana, Gray was close to Colt's age and I was pregnant with Colt. Gray remembered just a bit from that trip but knew that it was going to be a blast from commercials advertising it. I'm pretty sure Colt didn't know what to expect, but he was ecstatic because he saw Gray getting excited. After all, monkey see... monkey do... :)

THE photo that we all have from our childhood days... :)

Since this was Colt's first amusement park experience, he was a bit uneasy with the first ride. It didn't take him long to warm up. :)

Gray on the kiddie version of this ride...

YEP! I'm pretty sure he was all about Holiday World after his first ride on the planes. He couldn't wait to climb aboard his his favorite horse.

Water bumper cars... NOTICE... All of the kids that were on this ride, and one of the two attendants felt the need to stay close to my boys. HmMm...??? I know you're surprised!!! HA!

After the kiddie section, Gray took off to ride The Raven (a REAL wooden rollercoaster-He insisted that he wanted to ride it...) with daddy and Auntie Melanie. Uncle Adam and Auntie Kathleen brought Colt a yummy lemonade to cool off. It was one STEAMY day!!!!

"MeeMaw, do you want a drink?"

Auntie Melanie reported that Gray was super excited on The Raven until they started flying down the first hill. He was leery about getting on the next ride. He passed up riding the Scrambler. I was sooo glad to see the swings around the next corner. Gray ran to get on while I crossed my fingers that he would enjoy this one. The second he jumped off, he ran to get right back on again while yelling, "One more time, Mom!"

Colt wasn't quite tall enough for some of the rides. He was such a good sport throughout the morning, but he REALLY wanted to ride the swings. He stretched on his tippy-toes. "Am I tall enough now, Mom?"

Our first trip on the antique cars, PeePaw piled into the back seat of the first car for Gray to chauffeur. Colt and I followed in the next car with Colt steering while I pushed the pedal. This was Gray's first attempt at driving, and his little legs just weren't strong enough to press that heavy pedal consistently around the entire track. Every few minutes, he lifted his foot off the pedal to readjust; every few minutes, I would do the same so we wouldn't bump into his car. After a bit, Colt caught on to how the pedal would make the car move, and he started stepping on top of my foot as I would lift to make our car slow to a stop. Get with the program, mommy!!! These may be antique cars, but we can make it go FAST!!! Sooo cute!!! :)

You can't ride the antique cars just once. I think this was a pic of the second, third, fourth... ????

I think we've hit an all time record!!! I'm in TWO pics in this post!!!! How did that happen??? Auntie Melanie jumped in and started snapping pics when I passed the camera off to get on a ride. Thanks, Auntie Melanie!!!

All aboard...

"How you doin'?"

and again...

Auntie Melanie took Gray to the kiddie coaster while I was chasing Colt around the playground area. After I captured him, we walked up to find Gray riding the coaster with this little girl. Auntie Melanie reported that Gray was standing in line between a little girl and a little boy. He chose to approach the little girl and said "You can ride with me if you want to..." Lord, please help me!!! I think I'm in trouble with this one!!!

Exiting the playground area, Auntie Melanie noticed this water feature. I'm pretty sure it was the hit of the day! Colt wasn't too sure at first, but where Auntie Melanie goes, he's sure to follow.

Hey, wait!!!

Gray getting in on the action...

HILARIOUS... Can't you just hear the squeals of laughter with this one?

About mid-afternoon, Colt was ready for his nap. All of you mommas know what I mean!!! ;) Since Colt was tired, and Gray had school the next day, we decided to cut the day a bit short and left the park around 4:00.

Twenty minutes later, Colt was out like a light, and...

Gray was still mad!!! HA!

Crossing over...

2010-05-24T15:56:00.000-07:00

Last Monday, Gray's cub scout troop hosted a potluck picnic for the scouts and their families. After we chowed down on some yummy food, the leaders presented year-end patches, ribbons, and service stars to the scouts. Gray received several patches and a star pin for his first year of service as a tiger scout.

The ceremony ended with each of the scouts receiving their new color of neckerchief signifying the level of scout they are. Orange is for tigers... Yellow is for wolves... Off with the old... On with the new...

Crossing over... Gray is now the proud member of the wolf den.

Go, White Sox!

2010-05-24T08:25:00.000-07:00

Gray's soccer game - Fall '07

Gray's soccer game - Fall '08

Gray's basketball game - Winter '08-'09

After playing the part of a fan at MANY, MANY practices and games...

I FINALLY GET TO PLAY!!! YIPPEEE!!!
(note the glove on his left hand)

Each Saturday, we have an hour of play on the YMCA field. The first 30 minutes is used for practice; we play a "game" during the second half.

Coach Matt attempting to motivate his team, the White Sox... Two seconds later... COMPLETE CHAOS... I think this is the only time he had their undivided attention. Oh, the attention span of a 3-year-old... HA! FYI~Colt is number 3.

Colt and his buddy Jackson "warming up" their fingers in the dirt... HA!

Batter's up...

Playing in the dirt... (Notice the glove is on his right hand now.)

Time to practice catching... Woops!!! Where did the ball go??? (Notice the glove is back on his left hand.)

More dirt time... (Glove... You betcha'... Right hand...) Also, this is DURING the game! Colt is squatted playing in the dirt between home plate and first base.

My turn to bat... Hooray! I hit it!!! Now what?

Colt and his buddy Jackson decided to take a rest DURING the game. WHEW! This baseball stuff is hard work...

...but the snacks at the end of the game make it all worthwhile!

Go, Cubs!!!

2010-05-20T10:20:00.000-07:00

Gray's Little League season started out with a parade through town. I have to say I was really impressed and proud of being a small town gal after this event. What a fun way to hype up the season and motivate the kids! I didn't really count, but I would say there were at least 20-25 wagons spoofed up to represent each team. Each kiddo brought a bag of candy to throw at people standing along the parade route. Allen rode on the Cub's float with Gray while MeeMaw, PeePaw, Colt and I staked our claim and waited for the floats to arrive. Colt had a blast catching candy as it was being thrown. I would have loved to have snapped a pic of Colt chasing after the flying pieces of candy, but I was a bit occupied trying to keep him from dashing in front of the upcoming floats. Nevertheless, Colt had just as much fun as Gray. :)

After the parade, all of the spectators and team players joined on the main field for the National Anthem and opening prayer. Then team by team, player by player, each kiddo would step up to the microphone to say their name over the loud speaker announcing that they were a part of the team. Again, so proud to be part of a small town... I can't imagine wanting to be a part of any other baseball program after experiencing the Little League opening event.

After the opening ceremonies, each team gathered onto one of the practice fields for an exhibition of the season that was about to unfold. Gray's first bat of his very first season of baseball... Can you see the beginning of our last name on the back of Gray's shirt??? My heart skipped a beat when I saw it for the first time. Gray has played sports for the YMCA for a few years now, but this is the first time wearing our name on his shirt. With Gray's love of sports (and socializing), I'm sure this won't be the last time I'll see it. :)

GO CUBS!!!

Hippity Hop-Easter Day!!!

2010-05-20T09:46:00.000-07:00

Gray reading a note he left for the Easter Bunny... It reads...

"Why did the banana go to see the doctor? Because he wasn't peeling well."

Nothing like starting a morning off with a wee bit of chocolate...

The highlight of the baskets this year... Silly string... Even daddy got a can to get in on the action!!! Look in the background... Colt was quite concerned for daddy until he realized the fun that was just beginning. Gotta' love Allen's face. HA!

The boys in their school baseball caps while sporting their new sunglasses... :)

We had an Easter egg hunt later that day at MeeMaw's and PeePaw's. I swear I took shots of Colt. Where they went, who knows... Psst... Santa, I need a new camera!!! This one is almost 8 years old!

Seussical Celebration

2010-05-20T09:33:00.000-07:00

March 2nd, Gray's class celebrated Dr. Seuss' birthday. They had an assignment to choose their favorite character from a Dr. Seuss book to dress and present in class. Gray's favorite... Thing 2 from The Cat in the Hat. Gray's favorite thing about his outfit... The blue hair... :)

Finally...

2010-05-20T09:04:00.000-07:00

Our entire family happened to be sick with the flu the week of Colt's 3rd birthday so we canceled his party and rescheduled it a few weeks later. Try to explain that to a three-year-old. YIKES!!! Colt is fascinated by fire engines. His favorite cartoon... Fireman Sam. His favorite dress-up outfit... fireman costume. His favorite toy... his firetruck. In fact, his entire room is decorated in firetrucks. When I asked him what kind of party he wanted for his birthday, I wasn't the least bit surprised when he said... "HmMm... Firetruck!"

My big guy's firetruck cake...

I snapped the pic a second too late. I missed the blowing out of the candles, but instead was able to capture a portion of his "I DID IT!!!" dance. :)

PeePaw and his birthday boy...

So... Have you heard the one about the fireman on the way to the fire?

FISH ON... !!!

Huh? HA!!! Tag Jr. and some books... Leave it to mommy to give him an educational toy...

My future daughter-in-law with Colt. Will he be the hubby she picks? -OR- Will Colt be her future brother-in-law? Who said arranged marriages were in the past? We think Maya Brockwell has a nice ring. Don't you think?

WOW!!! Paint w/ water books... We love the painting books, Auntie Melanie, especially the Star Wars one. Uncle Jim must be rubbing off on his nephews!!!

Thanks for yet another LOUD toy, Uncle Adam. Paybacks... I'm just sayin'!!!

I'm gonna' get you, PeePaw!!!

DEAR...

2010-05-13T08:44:00.000-07:00

For those of you non-teachers... DEAR is an acronym for

D-rop
E-verything
A-nd
R-ead

Basically, you devote a few minutes of your classroom day to reading good literature. Everyone participates... even the teacher... Colt decided to do a bit of light reading on his own this day. That's my boy!!!

Visit to Tarrytown...

2010-05-13T08:28:00.000-07:00

The flu invaded our house the week of Colt's third birthday. We decided to reschedule his big birthday party assuming that not many people would want to chance being exposed. Colt had already chosen to have a firetruck birthday, so he was a bit confused when I switched gears and threw together a quick cake for a small family celebration. Colt with his lemon-drop Jay-Jay cake... In Colt's words, it was "dewicious!"

The day after the day after Christmas at the Zoo...

2010-05-13T08:13:00.000-07:00

Okay, I don't really know for certain that it was the day after the day after Christmas when we went to the zoo, but it was close. YEARS ago, my friend Shaunna used to have a gathering for all of our highschool friends the day after the day after Christmas (December 27th for those of you struggling to figure it out)... Anyway, the parties have since dwindled, but Shaunna suggested a winter trip to the zoo with our boys sometime right around then. :)

My lil' lions... ROOOOOAAAARRRRR!!!!

Each time we visit, we make the boys pose on the rhino. I think Zion is over it. I'm guessing Gray will soon follow suit. ;)

Auntie Melanie joined us on our adventure. Gray will do just about anything Auntie Melanie asks him to do. He thinks she is the bomb! Gray picking the hippo's nose...

Christmas

2010-05-13T07:09:00.000-07:00

Santa must have been hungry!!!

Trio blocks, anyone???

Where's Gray during all this??? Santa brought him a Nintendo DS. "Yoohoo! Gray!!! Mommy wants to get a pic." HA!!! Deep in concentration...

Fast forward to later that afternoon after a visit to MeeMaw's and PeePaw's... ZzZzZzZzZzZzZzzZzZz....

Christmas Eve

2010-05-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

STOP!!! Consider yourselves fairly warned... You are about to experience toy overload!!! If you do not wish to expose yourself, proceed to the next post. Wait... That will be for Christmas morning. You may want to skip the next few posts to be safe!!! :)

Cars' flashlight for Colt... The kid is mesmerized with flashlights...

So sad... It's been so long since Christmas, I can't even begin to figure out what this one is... :(

Do you believe in magic???

May the force be with you!!!

Rub a dub dub...

2010-05-13T06:47:00.000-07:00

HO HO HO from our tub!!!

Wishing a very Merry Christmas to all of our family and friends!!!

(Better late than never!!!)

St. Nick's Day

2010-05-13T06:31:00.001-07:00

FINALLY all of my good behavior pays off...
Check out Gray's smile... :)

Digital drumsticks... What was St. Nick thinking???

I love candy!!!

Play On...

2010-05-12T14:17:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows Gray knows to carefully enter his room. Legos scatter his room, and I've learned to tread carefully. I've stepped on my fair share, and let me tell you... IT HURTS!!!!

Anyway... On to my point, what better theme for Gray's 7th birthday party??? GeeGaw (Allen's mom), Aunt Sarah (Allen's sis), Maddie & Brayden (our niece and nephew) drove all of the way from Michigan to celebrate with us. I had tons of help with Gray's request of a REAL Lego cake. Kudos to GeeGaw, Aunt Sarah, and Maddie for helping me pull it off! :)

The birthday boy getting ready to make his wish...

I wonder if any of the cake managed to make it's way into Colt's mouth. :)

Do you think he's excited???

Notice the Lego organizing station in the background. When I stumbled on this at Meijer, I just couldn't pass it up!!! Don't worry... We gave him a REAL gift, too!

Colt crashing after the sugar rush wore off... Cousin Maddie sure takes good care of Colt when she visits. :)

Chef Gray

2009-11-18T04:32:00.000-08:00

Gray's school is celebrating American Education Week. The kids are invited to dress according to different themes each day this week to pump up some excitement. Today was "twin day". The idea is that you are supposed to phone a friend from school and dress alike. What a great idea!!!

We really don't know many of the families at school yet. We definitely don't know any of them well enough to have their phone number on hand. So... Mommy thought out of the box. Gray's principal uses a puppet named Chef Chuck everyday on his morning announcements that are video streamed into the classroom. Chef Chuck... Chef Gray... I hope he doesn't lose his mustache!!! (Okay... I admit it! I sent extra mustaches to school in Gray's backpack!)

I'm sure the 1st of many...

2009-11-11T04:02:00.000-08:00

A few minutes ago, I stepped into my shoes (that I keep by the garage door to slip on when I run Gray to and from the bus stop) to find something squishy between my toes. EWWWW!!! The conversation that followed...

Me: "COLT!!!! Why is there a chunk of banana in mommy's shoe?"

Colt (in his cute little voice while displaying a sad face): "It's hiding. Rorry, Mommy!"

Holy haberdashery, Batman! It's Fireman Sam!!!

2009-11-03T08:05:00.000-08:00

On Halloween, the Watson's had us over for chili, a bonfire, and to trick-or-treat in their neighborhood. Gray dressed as Batman, and Colt was none other than his favorite cartoon character Fireman Sam. It was such a cold night, but we had a TON of fun.

Visiting at MeeMaw & PePaw's for Halloween treats...

LONG overdue!!!

2009-11-03T07:34:00.000-08:00

After having to attend TWO stressful, frustrating photo shoots last Christmas and only getting 1 DECENT picture of both of my boys (after a head crop), I had pretty much given up on trying to get good shots of my kids at the typical photography studio. My friend Michelle started taking photos, and with a little nudging I made an appointment with her for a photo shoot. I am SOOOO glad that I did!!! With Michelle, not only did we get wonderful photos, we created wonderful memories of a relaxing, fun afternoon while playing at Mt. St. Francis. Let me know if you need contact information. You won't be disappointed!!!

I had to throw this one in... Colt staring at the airplane that was flying overhead...

Yep... The end of the shoot... Even though it was relaxing, it was time to move on! They decided to act like tigers for the camera! ;)

Proud to be a Scout

2009-11-03T06:52:00.001-08:00

Gray joined cub scouts this fall. He LOVES wearing his uniform and anxiously waits for Monday nights to attend den and pack meetings with his daddy.

Since Allen has attended all of the meetings with Gray, I have felt a little "out in left field" in understanding everything there is to know about scouts. Those of you who know me well know how uneasy that makes me. (Yes!!! I am a self-proclaimed type-A, anxiety ridden, OCD driven person. I wear it with pride!) So I did what any other self-proclaimed type-A, anxiety ridden, OCD driven momma' would do. I googled it to figure out what the heck was going on!!!

So... Apparently, the first rank that EVERY boy earns when entering cub scouts is the Bobcat rank. How does one earn a Bobcat rank, you ask? It's really quite simple. Recite the cub scout promise and law of the pack. Understand the term "webelos" and what it stands for. Learn the secret cub scout sign, handshake, and motto (which Gray just happens to have heard from his mommy for nearly 7 years now. For those of you who are wondering... DO YOUR BEST!)

I know... Get on with it already! So here are some pics from Gray's Bobcat ceremony where he received his Bobcat badge and several belt thingees for having participated in soccer, basketball, fishing, and bicycling safety. (Thanks, Safety Town!)

During the ceremony each of the newly inducted Bobcats had their faces painted.

No, the paw print on Gray's forehead is not a Blue's clue!!!

The blue Bobcat pawprint on Gray's forehead is to remind him of the spirit of the Bobcat and to do his best along his Cub Scout journey.

The yellow marks under his eyes will help him see the light of the Cub Scout trail and symbolizes the bright spirit of the Cub Scouts.

White is for purity. The white spot on his nose helps Gray to know right from wrong as he travels on his journey.

Red is for courage. The spot on his chin reminds him to always speak the truth.

Green stands for the spirit of nature. The marks on each cheek guide him to live in harmony with the great outdoors.

Go Goalstrikers!!!

2009-11-03T05:54:00.000-08:00

Soccer season began, and has now almost ended! Yep, more pics from the past... This year Gray is on the Goalstrikers' team and is sporting a purple shirt!

Gray cheering his teammates on while waiting for his turn to join in the fun.

Getting directions from Coach Lutgens (who has the patience of a Saint and has been truly amazing about teaching the kids in fun and innovative ways)...

Go, Gray!!!

Team huddle after the game...

Kart Kountry

2009-11-03T05:39:00.000-08:00

Okay... So I haven't been the best blogger lately. These pics were taken a LONG time ago. Uncle Adam and Auntie Kathleen decided to give me the afternoon off and took the boys to Kart Kountry.

So all I have to do is put this ball in that hole?

Check out those cheeks!!! What a hot day! Does that tell you how long ago this pic was taken?

When the waterfall didn't cool them off, they headed inside for some games. Of course, Colt found the motorcycle!!!

Colt zonked out on the ride home...

First Grade Rocks!

2009-08-12T15:44:00.000-07:00

What better way to start off the first day of first grade than with a big helping of first grade pancakes? MMMM....

Colt displayed his delight with his dino-mite pancakes.

Gray was so excited to be all decked out and ready to go in his new threads and shoes while sporting his new camo backpack.

Fast forward 8 hours... "Man, 1st grade is HARRRD work!"

Mommy made a super-sharp surprise to start Gray's school year off right.

Cake ALWAYS makes everything better!

Marching to the Beat of His Own Drum...

2009-08-12T11:14:00.000-07:00

If you've ever visited our home, you know that we aren't lacking in the noisy toy department. Colt has become quite the musician. He's mastered the electric guitar, acoustic guitar, and now has moved on to creating his beat. For some reason, I see band camp in our future...

Safety Town

2009-08-12T11:03:00.000-07:00

For the past few years, Gray has asked about Safety Town on every visit to Community Park. For years, I had unsuccessfully tried to locate Safety Town as a teacher to take my students. I was elated to find kids pedaling bikes around Safety Town as we were heading to WalMart a few weeks ago. A quick U-turn and a few questions later, Gray was enrolled. He loved every minute of the two-week class and has even called his momma' out on a few "safety violations"!

Mayor Doug England congratulating Gray at Safety Town graduation

Just when I think I've seen it all...

2009-07-30T10:24:00.000-07:00

I was busy typing away the other day when I discovered Colt entering the kitchen with a trash can on his head!!!Granted, I would have flipped out, but I knew that it was the can that we use in the playroom which only holds paper scraps and such from artsy projects. Once Colt emerged from the can, I asked him what he was doing."Pew...pew... Starships, mommy!"

I wonder which Star Wars character he thinks he looks like! Once again, we have some serious "Monkey see, Monkey do" happening in our house. The things he learns from his big brother... ::::::sigh:::::

Fun at the Drive-In

2009-07-26T06:48:00.000-07:00

We made our first attempt at taking the boys to the drive-in a few weeks ago.
Jenn, Doug, Maya, Zane, Dennis, Beth, Bayden, Cort, and Eliza were heading out to see Ice Age III, and we thought the evening ahead was just too gorgeous to spend indoors.
Bubbles kept the kids entertained while we were waiting for the lights to go down. :)

Gray, Colt and Maya blowing away, but not accomplishing much.

Colt sharing bubbles with his buddy Cort.

Colt was mesmerized by the speakers. He spent the entire evening running between the back of the Watson's van that was filled with the pillows and the littlest kids and various speaker stands.

Gray enjoying the show with his buddy Bayden.

Ice Age III was a great movie for both kids and adults.
HILARIOUS!!!
We had a FABULOUS time at the drive-in watching a great movie with the best of friends!

Caught red-handed, take 783...

2009-07-26T06:43:00.000-07:00

"What? I'm a growing boy..."

Apparently, Colt has now figured out how to open the pantry doors.

Meet Me at the Fair...

2009-07-26T06:13:00.000-07:00

There is nothing better than spending a gorgeous sunny evening outdoors with the best of friends. Jenn, Rick, Maya, and Zane joined us for a fun evening at the 4-H fair.

Maya and Colt jumped in the wagon and prepared for an evening of fun!

First stop... a plethora of animals in the barns.
Gray was so gentle with the baby chicks.

Our Dr. Doolittle had a lot to say to the animals.
Colt thought it was hilarious when they would talk back.

Hmmm... Wonder what was in that cage?

Gray was quick to take his turn in driving the army jeep. WATCH OUT!!!

Where Gray goes, Colt is sure to follow.

Gray loved the super slide!

Colt had a fabulous time on the carousel.

I'm glad that Gray smiled on the mower!
I may have to pull this pic back out in the future to remind him how much fun it once was. ;)

Once again... Monkey see, monkey do...

Perfect ending to a perfect evening... Dare we hope for wedding bells???

Lions and Puppies and Frogs, oh my

2009-06-23T16:40:00.000-07:00

Gray is the artist in our family. Give the kid a new notebook and crayons, and he will be content for hours. Gray ran some errands with me today, and we stumbled upon puppet kits in the clearance section at WalMart. The finished product looked so adorable on the package that we just couldn't pass them up.

Delizioso...

2009-06-23T16:28:00.000-07:00

Last night was Italian night in the Brockwell house. Chef Gray decided to whip up Chicken Parmesan over angel hair pasta for the family. MMMM.... delizioso...

Camping Brockwell-Style

2009-06-21T18:26:00.000-07:00

Lately, we've been toying with the idea of taking the boys camping. One thing keeps standing in the way... Gray has a terrible fear of bugs! Not just any bugs... mostly spiders and anything with stingers... We decided for the meantime to treat the boys to a modified style of camping.

Colt couldn't resist munching on a marshmallow while daddy was starting the fire.

Gray did a fabulous job at roasting his first marshmallows.

"No s'mores for me, but pass those graham crackers, please!"

MMMMMMM.... Colt doesn't know what he's missing!

Our first camping adventure was a success. Who wouldn't love camping out in an air conditioned tent placed smack in the center of the living room?

Where's Colt?

2009-06-20T09:41:00.000-07:00

"Colt... Time for your medicine..." Where did he go?

Who is that beach bum?

2009-06-09T08:15:00.000-07:00

The kindergarten teachers at Gray's school planned a beach party for the kids to celebrate the last day of school. Yah, right! I was a kindergarten teacher myself. I KNOW those teachers were right there in the middle LEADING the celebration! HA! Gray sporting his beach bum attire while flexing to show his muscles... ;)

And the award goes to....

2009-06-09T07:26:00.000-07:00

Gray's school hosted an end-of-the-year awards ceremony. Thankfully, they broke it down into several smaller groups. Gray's class alone has just over 300 students. SHEESH!!!

Gray was recognized for his Exemplary Effort that he puts forth in everything he does. Such meticulous work... :)

Dr. Losey, the principal, asked the students to remain standing for him to shake each of their hands after the audience gave a round of applause.

Gray couldn't resist giving his buddies high-five when he was on his way back to sit with his classmates.

Colt looking on from the floor in front of the bleachers... Why can't I sit with all of the other kids?

Gray received a second award for Outstanding Citizenship for making responsible character and behavior choices at school. That's my boy!!!

Gray scootched to the end of his class row which was only feet in front of our seat in the bleachers. Colt quickly joined Gray on the floor. I love seeing moments like this between the boys! They just melt my heart.

The Three Musketeers or The Three Stooges?

2009-06-09T06:41:00.000-07:00

Gray's kindergarten class invited us to school to entertain us with a melody of tunes. Before school that morning, Gray told me not to wave to him because they were told that they shouldn't wave to the audience. There's Gray, waving excitedly, in the bright yellow shirt.

Another shot during a cute little ditty that had hand signs...

Gray posing with Shawn, his partner in crime from kindergarten year... I have a feeling these two boys together are going to keep the teachers on their toes.

And again... After they found their best buddy, Mattox. These three are the best of friends. It's kind of hard to tell... Are you seeing the Three Musketeers or the Three Stooges?

Easter

2009-06-09T06:23:00.000-07:00

Gray had a blast dipping our eggs in dye once Colt fell asleep for his afternoon nap. I know... He missed out on a lot of fun, but he'll have his turn next year. I can't imagine a two-year-old and food coloring would make a good mix.

The boys posed by their new Easter baskets from MeeMaw and PaPaw just before heading to bed. Take notice of the bowl of carrots that we left for the Easter bunny.

Gray couldn't resist giving the infamous bunny ears just before heading off to bed. I have a feeling this won't be the last one of these shots. As for the carrot, did you really think Colt would resist taking a bite?

The Easter Bunny knows that the Brockwell boys don't need a lot of sugar so instead he brought them a few gifts. Colt LOVES the movie Cars. He was excited to find quite an assortment of Cars board books, new plastic Cars plates and bowls to use at meals, a few new of the Cars figures to add to our collection, and a Cars blankie to snuggle with at night.

Gray had been playing Star Wars on the playground with his friends at recess. I'm not sure how he knew what to do since we still hadn't allowed him to see the movie. The Easter Bunny surprised Gray with a DVD of a cartoon version of Star Wars, Star Wars figures, coloring book, Leapster Game, and of course a blanket similar to Colt's.

Never fear... The Easter bunny did give each of the boys 1 chocolate bunny and jelly beans.

Be Like Donkey!

2009-04-08T04:20:00.000-07:00

One day a farmer's donkey fell down into a well. The animal cried piteously for hours as the farmer tried to figure out what to do.

Finally, he decided the animal was old, and the well needed to be covered up anyway;it just wasn't worth it to retrieve the donkey.

He invited all his neighbors to come over and help him. They all grabbed a shovel and began to shovel dirt into the well. At first, the donkey realized what was happening and cried horribly. Then, to everyone's amazement, he quieted down.

A few shovel loads later, the farmer finally looked down the well. He was astonished at what he saw. With each shovel of dirt that hit his back, the donkey was doing something amazing. He would shake it off and take a step up.

As the farmer's neighbors continued to shovel dirt on top of the animal, he would shake it off and take a step up.

Pretty soon, everyone was amazed as the donkey stepped up over the edge of the well and happily trotted off!

Life is going to shovel dirt on you, all kinds of dirt. The trick to getting out of the well is to shake it off and take a step up. Each of our troubles is a steppingstone. We can get out of the deepest wells just by not stopping, never giving up! Shake it off and take a step up.

Remember the five simple rules to be happy:
Free your heart from hatred - Forgive.
Free your mind from worries - Most never happen.
Live simply and appreciate what you have.
Give more.
Expect less.

NOW ... Enough of that . . .
The donkey later came back, and bit the farmer who had tried to bury him. The gash from the bite got infected and the farmer eventually died in agony from septic shock.

MORAL FROM TODAY'S LESSON:
When you do something wrong, and try to cover your ass, it always comes back to bite you.

My Brave Boy

2009-03-20T17:06:00.000-07:00

Gray's seasonal allergies have been so bad the past few years that the pediatrician had Gray on Zyrtec AND Claritin, as well as prescription allergy nasal spray. Despite the meds, Gray was still spending a good 4-5 months every year completely miserable. Time for allergy testing... Dr. Coyle from Family Allergy & Asthma confirmed that Gray did indeed have seasonal allergies. He also has asthma! Who knew? Anyway, Gray's meds have been switched around, and he now uses a bronchodilator inhaler. We think Dr. Coyle is THE man! Gray is a completely different kid. He's not congested, is resting easily and even has his appetite back. Today, Gray started his first round of allergy shots. He didn't wince, whimper, or even shed a tear! In fact, I think I even heard a chuckle just before he exclaimed to the nurse, "That didn't hurt at all!" Momma' is so proud of her brave boy!

Ear drops anyone?

2009-03-20T16:59:00.000-07:00

Colt woke up a few nights ago screaming at the top of his lungs. After about 45 minutes, I was finally able to calm him back down, but he remained restless and cried out throughout the night. The next morning he slept until 9:00 which most of you know is several hours later than usual. When he finally woke up, he was very clingy and had tears streaming down his face without whimpering or making any sounds. Dr. Nassim's office squeezed Colt in for an appointment. My instinct was right. Colt had a double ear infection and possible Strep. My poor baby... Popsicles are the only thing that taste good on days like those.

Mr. Innocent...

2009-03-20T16:38:00.000-07:00

A few nights ago, I had just finished baking some cookies, filled up a plastic tote with seasonal baking supplies, and was quickly trying to whip up dinner. It was a school night, and our routine was a bit off. I was running late and not paying close attention to what Colt was doing. Typically, he's under my feet shouting "I try!" while I'm baking goodies and cooking dinner. I quickly realized that he hadn't wandered too far. I found him in the laundry room just off the kitchen standing on the very tote that I had just packed. Colt apparently found another use for it, moved the tote, and climbed aboard. Would you like to make a guess about what he was trying to reach? ADT's gonna' love me! I'm sure it's only a matter of time. :)

Colt sporting the "What? I wasn't doing anything!" look.

A few minutes later Colt pulled the entire tote to the kitchen window to take a peek and look for the wild turkeys. I wish we had a camcorder so that I could catch his turkey call in action! He's my little turkey!

Brotherly Love

2009-03-14T04:00:00.002-07:00

Yesterday while I was working in the kitchen I heard Gray being super sweet with his brother in the living room. Gray asked if he could put a Baby Einstein video in for Colt. A few minutes later I peeked in on them when it was "too quiet", expecting to find a mess. AWWW!!! Brotherly love...

Mama Mia!

2009-02-24T14:48:00.000-08:00

The boys and I decided to deem it "Pizza Night" in the Brockwell house. Gray helped roll the pizza dough flat onto the pan, spread the sauce, and add the pepperoni.

"I try!" said Colt. I gave him a bowl of chopped green peppers to add to the pizza. A few for the pizza...

A few for Colt...

Gray finished adding the toppings while Colt continued to help himself.

The best of all is that daddy was dismissed from work a few hours early and surprised us all just as the piping hot pizzas were coming out of the oven. It's always a great night when we get to share dinner as a family.

Is it spring yet?

2009-02-24T14:39:00.000-08:00

I love to spend time outside with my boys when Mother Nature decides to give us gorgeous weather! The boys enjoy riding their bikes, but most of all LOVE having fun riding their Power Wheels. The Brockwell's just can't wait for that spring weather!

Winter Storm Warning

2009-01-27T09:51:00.000-08:00

We're in the midst of a Winter Storm Warning in Kentuckiana. As I began to bundle the boys this morning for a romp in the snow, Allen called to tell us that he was on his way home. Norton's cares about their employees! They sent all of the Indiana folks home before the afternoon sleet began. Thanks, Norton's, for giving us a fun snow date with daddy!

Gray plopped right down to make a snow angel.
Colt wasn't quite so sure about lying in the snow, but anything that Gray does, he follows suit!

The incline at the side of our house is perfect for a little sledding.

ZOOM!

Daddy gave Gray a lesson on making the perfect snowball. To my dismay, most of the snowballs (Daddy's, Colt's & Gray's) were aimed at me. Gotta' love living in a house full of boys!

Colt's version of throwing a snowball was incredibly cute. He placed his hands palms down in the snow, then picked his hands up and clapped them together while yelling "BAM!"

Gray and his devious smile... Here comes another one!

Colt trying to defend his mommy with his snowball. What a sweet pea! My hero...

I was vetoed. That happens A LOT in a house of 3:1. The boys decided to make a snow fort instead of a snowman. Shovels and shovels of snow later....

the snow fort was complete!

Colt couldn't resist taking his John Deere tractor for a spin....literally. Our driveway was incredibly slick, and it sits on a bit of an incline. Colt did pretty well going down, but he did manage to slip and slide himself into the snowdrift from Allen's early morning shoveling venture. Reminded me a bit of my college days when students would try to ride their bikes to campus on snow and ice. HILARIOUS, memories!

Mommy's Superstar!

2009-01-20T18:03:00.000-08:00

Gray has been playing in a basketball league for the last few months. The lighting in the gym is terrible so I haven't been able to get good shots of Gray in action. Nonetheless, mommy is proud of her star so I'm posting what I have.

Go, Gray!

I'm sure you can imagine... Colt was quite the handful at Gray's games. He loved getting in on the action.

Swoosh!

Gray with some of his teammates and his substitute coach that worked the last game.

Mommy made special basketball treats for Gray's all-star team.

Mommy's basketball superstar!!! I'm so proud of you, Gray!

The Birthday Boy!

2009-01-20T17:40:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe my baby is 2!!!

What little boy doesn't love "Momas"? (Thomas for those of you who aren't familiar with Colt-ese.)

Colt loves his Aunt Kathleen! We can't wait for her to "officially" join our family in June 2010.

I decided to make Colt's birthday cake this year. Colt was so excited while it was being made. He kept climbing onto the stool by the island to watch. Each and every time, a huge smile would spread across his face as he saw the progress that was being made. What wonderful memories I have of his beaming face!
I couldn't catch him blowing out the candles, but this year he knew what to do! Yay, Colt!

Mmmm... That's good!

What's he doing now?

2009-01-20T17:30:00.000-08:00

Colt has now discovered that he can open the fridge door if he pulls it with all his might. I walked into the kitchen and found Colt sitting on the ledge just inside the fridge door attempting to enjoy a juice box.

When I moved closer to remove him from the interior of the fridge, he thought I was coming to help him open the juice box. Here's the straw wrapper, Mommy!

Oh, and believe it or not, Colt put his hat on himself. He prefers to wear his hats sideways. In Colt's words... He's COOOOOOOOL!

Keep Your Day Job, PLEASE!!!

2009-01-20T17:22:00.000-08:00

A few days before Colt's 2nd birthday Allen surprised Mommy by giving Colt a new haircut. Hubbies... F.Y.I.... Not a good idea... Love ya' Allen, but keep your trimmers off the boys' heads!

Reminds me a little of Jordan Knight's hair from NKOTB back in the day...Minus the braided tail of course.

Let It Snow...Let It Snow...Let It Snow...

2009-01-20T17:16:00.000-08:00

If it isn't going to snow, we may as well have snowflake cookies! My second attempt at making yummy cookies. I think I've found a new hobby!

Christmas

2009-01-20T16:51:00.000-08:00

Gotta' love Gray's look of surprise! Colt's not exactly a morning person. It took him a few minutes to warm up to the idea of the camera.

Both boys LOVE the puppet theater and puppets that Santa brought.

Hey, look! I found a ball!

What's that outside? Santa brought me a basketball goal!!!

Colt! Again with Santa's treats? Sheesh!!! Guess breakfast time was overdue for him.

***For you smarties that may have noticed that Santa's mug and plate are different from Christmas eve to Christmas morning, you are right!!! We have a special plate and mug to use for Santa's goodies each year, but Mommy had trouble finding them before the boys went to bed. Never fear, they were located soon after the boys were fast asleep.***

Just after our Christmas feast, Gray received a special phone call from none other than Santa himself. Both Gray and Colt were such good boys this year. Gray was awestruck and struggled for words, but sure was excited to listen to Santa's voice!

Christmas Eve

2009-01-20T16:31:00.000-08:00

Mommy's Christmas gift... Both boys... Looking at the camera... On the first try!!!

Colt completely understood the concept of unwrapping gifts this year!

Some time ago, I posted a snippet about Colt lunging himself on a package setting it into song. Tis' the gift...

Mommy's little helper... I'm secretly training him for when he is older.

Gray is the quite the artist in our family. He could not have been more ecstatic. New paints, brushes, markers, and paper...

It was too cold for the boys to spread the reindeer glitter on the lawn, but daddy braved the cold for this most important task. While we were standing in the doorway, Gray heard Santa approaching causing both boys to quickly scurry to bed, but not before...

putting out Santa's milk and cookies and carrots for the reindeer... minus the one in Colt's mouth of course! I love that I caught that on the pic!

Smile!

2009-01-20T16:17:00.000-08:00

Two photography sessions and a head cropping later... We FINALLY have a picture of both boys looking at the camera!

It looked like Santa to me...

2008-12-23T17:04:00.000-08:00

Cat, you jinxed me... Gray and I were finishing up a bit of last minute shopping at the mall a few days ago. We passed by the horrendous line of families waiting to see Santa and stopped briefly to wave to him from the sidelines. Later... when we joined Allen and Colt back in the car...

Me: Gray, tell daddy who we saw at the mall today.

Gray: I don't remember.

Me (in utter shock): You don't remember?

Gray: Nope

Me: Santa, Gray. Remember?

Gray: Mommmmyyyy... That wasn't really Santa.

Me (horrified): It wasn't? It looked like Santa to me.

Gray: Mommmmmyyyy... It was just a guy that offered to dress like the real Santa to help him out. The REAL Santa lives at the North Pole.

Me (breathing a sigh of relief): Oh...Well that was nice of him...

WHEW!!!!

On the same note... This conversation took place on St. Joe Road West by St. Joe's Church in Sellersburg. This was the exact same spot Gray chose to ask me how a baby comes out of his mommy's belly. fyi-We'll be taking detours from now on...

Jolly Old St. Nicholas...

2008-12-06T16:42:00.000-08:00

St. Nick came for a visit last night! We're without a mantle in our new house, and I hadn't thought ahead about where the stockings should be hung. Entertainment center drawer pulls are as good of a place as any, I suppose.

Gray discovering one of St. Nick's many gifts to him.

Colt was more than impressed with his Reindeer Pez dispenser. He was so surprised each and every time he lifted the reindeer's head to find a new piece of candy. He proclaimed, "There it is!" each time.

What set of stairs would be complete without a Slinky? The plastic ones definitely do not work as well as the ones we had when we were young, but the boys didn't seem to notice or even mind! They had a blast racing down the stairs and back up again to reset.

Jolly Old St. Nicholas... Pt II

2008-12-06T16:12:00.000-08:00

One of Gray's favorite gifts from St. Nick this year was his very first Webkinz. Gray named his new little frog Rana (Spanish word for frog). This afternoon, I had every intention of wrapping gifts and addressing Christmas cards, but I was somehow lured to help Gray earn points to decorate Rana's new online room! I have to say that after playing online with Gray today, I am completely in LOVE with Webkinz. EVERY child should have one!!! As Gray would say, they TOTALLY ROCK!!!

For those of you who may not know, Colt started in with a croupy cough again last night; we took him to see Dr. McMonigle this morning, and he confirmed the prognosis. You can obviously tell by the pics that as we are moving into the nighttime hours it is beginning to catch up with him. He is NOT feeling well. Poor little guy!!! I still couldn't resist snapping a pic of my boys in their Christmas p.j.'s from St. Nick.

Notice the disarray of the bottom portion of our tree which was rearranged by Colt on one of his better days! I gave up trying to fix it!!!

http://www.stnicholascenter.org/Brix?pageID=166 is a FANTABULOUS online website packed full of cool stories, games, puzzles, and more to teach little bits about St. Nick!
Hope you had the merriest of days!!!

PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE

2008-11-28T09:01:00.000-08:00

We LOVE our guitars! Thanks again, Uncle Adam, for the lovely electric guitar. The last few days have been packed full of practice, practice, practice for our big debut outside your bedroom window. How does early Saturday morning sound? ; )

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2008-11-28T08:46:00.000-08:00

Dad has always been the chef in our family. Mom and I tackled the feat of cooking Thanksgiving dinner for 10 this year, while under dad's direction of course. Mommy was a little busy, so I didn't take very many pics, but I managed to snap a few.

Colt was so patiently waiting for food LONG before it was ready!

Gray and Aunt Melanie breaking the wish bone.

Hmmm... wonder what he wished for.

One of my cousins said it best... Happy Thanksgiving to all and to all a good nap!
The Brockwell family gives thanks for each and every one of you!

The Birthday Boy

2008-11-28T08:03:00.000-08:00

My baby is 6 years old! How can it be?

Gray insisted on a Super Hero Trio birthday party. What happened to Jay-Jay and Thomas the Train? Looks like we're venturing into the world of becoming a big boy. HELP!

Up until this point, our house has been free of any types of toy guns, ammunition, any violent type toy. Gray has so desperately been wanting Transformers for quite some time. I was appalled to discover that every last one of them in the store display had some sort of violent ammunition. I'm sure this will get quite a few laughs, but I seriously dove into the display looking intently at each box to determine which looked less likely to encourage violent behavior. Yes! I AM a worry-wart!!!

Thanks for the screechingly, LOUD guitar Uncle Adam!!! Even Colt loves it!!!

Where's Grayson?

2008-11-25T11:54:00.000-08:00

Anybody up for a rousing round of "Where's Grayson?" Think "Where's Waldo?" with a cuter kid to find! Here's what Gray looked like today with his Thanksgiving feast garb on. I have to admit if I were still teaching, I would have stolen this idea. Too cute!!!

Now, take a peek at the slide show from Gray's class! You might just spot a little turkey you know!

Kindergarten Feast 2008

a face like this...

2008-11-21T15:04:00.000-08:00

Earlier today, Colt dumped half of a container of Comet on himself while I was at my friend's house helping her complete Operation Clean Sweep. Had my hands not been busy stripping Colt of his clothes and showering him down, I would have snapped a quick pic. Nevertheless, despite the lack of a picture, it still seems blog-worthy.

My facebook gals already know that I designated tonight "Brownie Night!" I looked up from prepping them to find Colt in the midst of his latest escapade! Mental note... add Wite-Out to the grocery list this week.

HELP, Mommy!

My hands are full with this one, but I just can't stay mad at a face like this!

Proud Mama!

2008-11-18T14:23:00.000-08:00

Gray's most recent newsletter came home from school explaining that his teacher had used a test called a DRA to assess each of her students to determine his/her reading level. It just happened to be the same assessment that I had used with my kindergartners. Being a teacher sure does come in handy!!!! Gray scored a DRA level 3, which I know from my experience, means that he is reading equivalent to a beginning year 1st grader. WOOHOO!!! Way to go, Gray!

Visit with the Watsons

2008-11-17T05:36:00.000-08:00

Our good friends, the Watsons, stopped by for a quick visit last night. Of course, we couldn't resist the opportunity to love all over Zane! Maya had just woken up and wasn't too interested in sharing in the "love-fest". Don't worry, Maya! We'll get you next time!

POOR Zane! All of the Brockwell boys were swarming last night!

Of course, I wasn't exempt either. I had to fit my turn in too! Colt hasn't been too great with sharing mommy's attention lately. I was smiling at him when his "jealous" streak started to come out once again.

Mommy has enough room for two! : )

Yoo-Hoo!!! This way!!! Everybody smile!!!

2008-11-17T05:09:00.000-08:00

We'll take it!

In Case You Were Wondering...

2008-11-10T07:51:00.001-08:00

Everyday I spend a huge portion of my time trying to complete an online medical transcription program, and everyday I become frustrated with the fact that I wasn't able to finish it the day before. Those of you who know me well, know that when I start a project, I want it to be finished with perfection yesterday. I'm not the dilly-dallying kind. Working from home with a 1 year old under foot has not been as easy as I had imagined. In this case, the proof is in the pictures!!! To drown out the sounds of Colt playing and squealing and better focus on the doc's wording, I have been wearing earbuds, which might explain why I didn't hear Colt immediately behind me grabbing cream of tarter from my purse and dumping it all over himself! Why was there cream of tarter in my purse? Well that's another story for another day!!!

Scar, the Harley DudeTurkey!

2008-11-06T13:47:00.000-08:00

Gray has a family project that is assigned as homework each month. This month's project was to disguise Tom the Turkey so that he will not be eaten for Thanksgiving Dinner. Gray decided that Tom was not an appropriate name for his Harley dude turkey.

Meet Scar, the Harley dude turkey.

Momma's Bball Boy

2008-11-06T13:35:00.000-08:00

Out with soccer... On to B-ball...
Mommy heard of a fabulous K-1-2 B-ball clinic that promotes learning basic basketball skills while focusing on having fun. Gray was so excited about playing b-ball. Mommy was too. Hooray for indoor sports!!!

Trick-or-Treat!

2008-11-06T13:27:00.001-08:00

I thought I'd try again to get a good shot of the boys for Halloween! Well, at least they are both looking in the direction of the camera!

Please tell me my boys aren't the only ones that stand right on top of the door, peeking in, until someone throws candy their way to get them to move on!

After trick-or-treating, the Brockwell boys always finish off their evening with some tasty Halloween punch. Of course, it wouldn't be as special without pumpkin straws!!!

Halloween Hooky

2008-11-06T13:16:00.000-08:00

Gray was sick the day before Halloween and ran a 101* fever. Gray's school has a policy that you have to be fever free for 24 hours before returning to school, so Gray wasn't able to attend school that day even though he felt completely fine. He was very disappointed to be missing the Halloween party that Mommy had planned and prepped for his class so we had a mini-party at our house while Colt took his afternoon nap.

Gray loved making his pumpkin mask. He loves arts & crafts!

Gray decided to be scary in his Halloween mask.

What party would be complete without yummy treats?

Pumpkin scented play-doh... Oh so fun!

Again with the tag?

2008-10-30T06:15:00.000-07:00

-Link to the person who tagged you.
-Post the rules on your blog.
-Write six-or-so Random Things about yourself.
-Tag six-or-so other people at the bottom of the post.
-Leave comments on their blogs, letting them know they've been tagged!
-Let the person who tagged you know when you've written the post.

1. My hubby Allen and I met online before the trend came and went of it being the "thing" to do.

2. A tornado hit my house when I was in high school, and I survived to tell about it.

3. I have talented toes, or so my hubby tells me. I can pick just about any random object off of the floor with my feet. I know. It's weird!

4. I have self-proclaimed OCD! I am so bad that it drives ME nuts, but I still can't help myself.

5. I have two different types of earlobes. One lobe is attached while the other is not-attached. I probably would have never noticed it had Mr. Weatherholt, anatomy & physiology high school teacher, not talked about it being dominant or recessive. I forget which was which.

6. Music moves me! My childhood dream, which was a complete secret until now, was to become a famous singer and pack the house! : )

7. Gray, Colt and I have become kitchen dancers. We perform every evening to the tunes on our family blog while I cook dinner. I love my family!

I tag Abby, Amber, and Kelly; all of my other bloggin' buddies have already been tagged. Three out of six isn't bad. Is it?

Tag! I'm it!

2008-10-30T05:27:00.000-07:00

Apparently in the blogger world, there are random games that are played; at least that's what Cat, one of my best gal pals, tells me. She tagged me which, from what she has explained, means that I should go into my "Pictures" file and download the 6th picture from the 6th folder. So here it is... (Adam don't kill me!)

Colt and Uncle Adam were lounging on the couch just before Colt's first birthday party at Meemaw and Bop-Bop's condo.

Ok, so on with the game. Now I am supposed to tag 6 more friends to do the same. Since Jenn, Jana, and obviously Cat have already played the game, I am tagging the rest of my bloggin' buddies, Abby, Amber, Allison, and Kelly [That is if you ever get your blog up and running! :p~ ]

The Brockwell Zoo

2008-10-28T16:14:00.000-07:00

Gray decided a while back that he wanted to be a zookeeper for Halloween this year. I couldn't resist; I just had to buy a monkey costume for Colt. Colt was NOT excited about wearing his costume. It took us almost an hour of persuading and coaxing to even get it on him.

We took the boys to Eastside Christian Church this past Sunday for their annual "Trunk or Treat" event. We had a great time. I'm hoping that it was a good trial run for Halloween night since Allen has to work, and I'll have to wrestle Colt into his costume by myself.

Hopefully, I'll get some better pics of them later this week. HAPPY HALLOWEEN, EVERYONE!!!

BRRR!!!

2008-10-28T15:06:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday Gray had his final soccer game of the Fall '08 season. It was at 9:00, and it was only 48* outside. Mommy is not sure she's cut out for this outdoor sport stuff, but we're giving it a shot. BRRR!!!!!

Gray is so proud of his participation medal!

Gray loves to cheese it up with his soccer buddies!

Gray had to stop and point out his new medal to his soccer coaches!

Stay tuned all you sport fans... Basketball starts on Saturday!

Daddy's Pimpin' Now!

2008-10-28T14:51:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, Dad got to go home for a visit with therapists in tow. They basically wanted to be sure that dad was able to move about the house and would be able to function with assistance at home without endangering himself. He passed with flying colors. HOORAY!!!! Dad is scheduled to come home this Thursday. Since he has lost so much weight in the past 8 months and due to the recent change in the weather, mom had to buy dad an outfit to wear. My brother and I found it hilarious that she purchased a FILA sweatsuit. Dad was lounging with Colt while pimpin' in his FILA suit!

Munkin Guts!

2008-10-28T14:30:00.000-07:00

We went to Huber's a few weekends ago when GaGa (Allen's mom) visited. Like a good mom, I remembered my camera to take awesome shots; however, what I didn't remember was to pull the memory card from the computer to return it to the camera. Thus... pumpkin picking pics and fun are still on the disposable.

Gray has always been a little turned off by pumpkin (or as Colt calls it "munkin") guts. This year, we gloved him up and encouraged him to dive in. After a few tries, my brave boy said, "Daddy, I don't need the glove" and pulled it off.

His face was priceless as he touched the slime for the first time!

His response, you ask... "EEEEWWWWW!!!"

Gray picked out the faces, and Mommy carved away.

Colt couldn't contain his excitement! :)

October Birthdays

2008-10-28T13:22:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago, we had a quaint little birthday celebration for Meemaw and Daddy since their birthdays are two days apart. Gray insisted that we put the precise number of candles on the cakes. So... Daddy's cake sported a whopping 34 candles.

Meemaw's, on the other hand, nearly set off the smoke detectors! Sixty candles! She thought if she blew the candles out quickly it wouldn't look quite as bad in the pic.

She forgot that I could take another snapshot after she blew out the candles.
Look at all those candles!
What you can't tell from the pic is that the candles at the front end of the cake where I started first lighting were down to nubs by the time I finished lighting the other end. : )
Love you, Meemaw!

Regardless of the number of candles, the cake and company were enjoyed by all.

Columbus Day

2008-10-28T13:09:00.000-07:00

On Columbus Day, our best buddies, The Watson's, came to visit us. Jenn and I had a great visit just lounging around with the kids. The daddies, on the other hand, were busy at work staining and sealing our deck. : ) Poor Gray missed out on the entire visit; school was in session.

Colt and Zane are sure to best the best of friends!

Who is to say what the future holds for little Miss Maya with two Brockwell boys hanging around. Will she choose the older more mature brother, or will she rob the cradle? Hmmm.... Just kidding, J & D... Well, maybe! : )

Momma's Smart Cookies

2008-10-28T13:03:00.000-07:00

The Brockwell boys do their homework together every afternoon when Gray gets home from school. Momma is so proud of her smart cookies!

Lesson learned...

2008-10-28T12:42:00.000-07:00

Colt and I just ran to the pharmacy to pick up and deliver mom's meds. Before heading home, I decided to pick up a few veggies at Jay C's to throw in a salad for part of tonight's dinner. I thought to myself... Only a few veggies... Quick trip in...Quick trip out... We don't need a cart.

LESSON LEARNED
ALWAYS get a cart with a 1 year old!

On our quick trip...Colt managed to grab a tomato off the display and took a huge bite out of it!

Not the nuts!!!!

2008-10-22T06:21:00.001-07:00

About a month ago, Gray came home with order forms for a fundraiser selling all sorts of goodies, wrapping paper, and junk to clutter the house. Yesterday, he plopped off the bus with his baggie of goodies in tow for mommy to deliver. As I emptied the items on the island to sort, Gray snatched up the metal tin of cashews and proclaimed that he knew what he wanted to have for his afternoon snack. I quickly wondered how he knew that the tin had food in it. Looking puzzled, I grabbed the tin, peeled off the lid and discovered that package indeed had been opened and was missing a few handfuls of cashews. Gray's excuse... "I got a little hungry on the bus ride home!"

MORAL TO THE STORY... Never buy edible items on a fundraiser from the Brockwell boys. They love their treats!

That's my boy!!!

2008-10-16T06:11:00.000-07:00

Gray received such a fabulous report from his teacher at our conference! Gray is such a bright boy; Gray's only challenge... he likes to talk.
Go figure!
Mrs. Epkey explained that at least when Gray's talking, he's on topic with what they are learning at school. She also reported that she positioned Gray's seat next to an ESL (English as a Second Language) student; the plan...with as much as Gray talks, it's sure to help the other student pick up English. Mrs. Epkey is pretty smart for a first-year teacher! : )

Gray is posing by the Kindergarten Shoe-Tying Wall of Fame! The wall is shared by all 7 of the kindergarten classes at Gray's school. Gray is only one of two in his class that can tie shoes at this point.

Mrs. Epkey also reported that Gray's art teacher was beyond impressed with his artistic abilities. She even copied one of Gray's drawings for all of the Kindergarten kiddoes to color! That's my boy!

What better way to celebrate than with a yummy ice cream treat! Mommy's proud of her kindergarten kid! Yay, Gray!

Livin' on the Sunny Side!

2008-10-16T05:55:00.000-07:00

It's not everyday that a hot-air balloon lands in your front yard!
LITERALLY!
The boys were in awe! What a fun way to start our day!

Fall Festival

2008-10-06T07:49:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon we ventured out to the Fall Festival at IUS for the Harvest Homecoming Balloon Launch. And they're off...

At one point, all of the balloons had lifted off except for the Sunny-Side of Louisville balloon. Colt pointed to the majority in the sky and said "ba-yoons...sky" and then turned his attention to the grounded balloon.
Colt quite anxiously waved and pronounced "bye-bye" to the grounded balloon.
After several repeat performances of pointing to the sky and waving bye-bye to the grounded balloon, Colt sat silently showing great concern for the balloon that had been left behind. My sweet boy!!!

2008-10-06T07:35:00.000-07:00

The Fall Festival was family oriented and offered tons of things to entertain Gray & Colt! They had an inflatable slide and jumping castle (My pics didn't turn out on these!), pumpkin painting, shoot the hoop and ring toss games, face painting and caricature drawings. The boys had a blast!

ROAR!!!!
Gray LOVES to groove! The music they were playing wasn't quite what Gray was used to, but apparently it didn't matter! He kept us entertained with his moves while we were waiting in line for the caricature drawing.

ALERT: Crash Landing at Tarrytown!

2008-10-06T07:22:00.000-07:00

Gray's Jay-Jay toys were passed on to Colt yesterday. Allen and I were working in the kitchen when we noticed how quiet Colt was being.

Apparently not all crash landings make noise!

arial view

My sweet boy sleeps.

6,912 Languages, 7 Continents, 1 Love-Pt II

2008-10-02T16:06:00.000-07:00

The Brockwell boys were quick to bust a move to the Salsa rhythm band. Colt was mesmerized with little boy on stage that was playing the maracas.

Shake your groove thing, Gray!

Colt dipping Aunt Melanie! What a gentleman!

One thing for sure the line for the camel ride was horrendously long, but it was the highlight of the Brockwell boys' day!

6,912 Languages, 7 Continents, 1 Love

2008-10-02T15:48:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday, Northside Christian Church sponsored an International Festival designed to celebrate the diversity of our world, right here at home. It featured a performance stage for cultural music and dance, a world market tent that offered international goods, food sampling from local ethnic restaurants, a petting zoo of animals from around the world, and booths to teach about culture and ministry. We had a great time!

Gray was so brave when he got his Henna tattoo!

Thank the Lord for Aunt Melanie. Mommy wasn't about to go near the petting zoo!

Gray takes after Aunt Melanie. He LOVES animals!

Colt was a bit squeamish about petting the animals, but had no problem telling them "bye-bye" and waving to them as they left for a break!

A loss for words...

2008-09-24T11:48:00.000-07:00

What do you do when your 20-month-old is smarter than the child-proofing in your home? Colt figured out how to bypass our child-proofing on our cabinets weeks ago. He has conquered climbing onto our counter height dining room chairs and does so repeatedly, despite falling and realizing that it does indeed hurt! Today, he pulled the safety plug from the electrical outlet and pronounced "kank oo" (Thank you!) as he tried to hand it to me. One thing for sure...he is one DETERMINED child. I'm sure it will come in handy later in life, but for now... Well, I'll just leave it at that.

Criss-Cross

2008-09-21T10:33:00.000-07:00

My Shoe-Tying Champ

I'm not really sure who wrote the "Criss-Cross" song, but I have to say I think they are ingenious! It has helped me teach a blue-gazillion amount of youngsters how to tie their shoe over the years, and today I was able to use it to teach MY son.

Gray picked up the "Criss-Cross" song and quickly applied it to tying a knot. We practiced with a jump rope to make the whole process easier by completing it on a larger scale. The entire process took less than an hour. Gray's expression says it all!
Gray graduated through tying with a longer, thinner string around his ankle, to tying Daddy's shoe, to eventually tying his own. Gray is my Shoe-Tying Champ!
HOORAY FOR GRAY!

For those of you who might be entering this venture with your own kids...

Criss-Cross

(sung to the tune of Splish, Splash, I was Taking a Bath!)

Criss-Cross and go under the bridge

Then you've got to pull it tight

Make a loop but keep a long tail

That is how you do it right

Then you take the other string

And you wrap it 'round the loop

Pull it through the hole

Now you've got the scoop

Criss-Cross and go under the bridge

Now you've made a double knot!

Mommy's Soccer Star!

2008-09-06T13:13:00.000-07:00

Gray's First Game of the Season

The coaches distributed our team shirts just before the kids stepped onto the field. Gray is trying so hard to be "cool" while sporting his new hot pink shirt. I can't wait to hear Allen's response to our new team color!
Our coaches are fabulous! Gray is getting some great pointers before the big kick-off.
Go, Gray!
Hey! Are these kids tag-teaming my son?
Gray doing his victory dance after scoring a goal! He was so excited and proud! So was his momma!

Rub-a-Dub-Dub

2008-08-21T17:08:00.001-07:00

Rub-a-Dub-Dub...Two boys in the tub...

Colt had already been bathed, diapered, slathered in lotion, dressed in pj's, had his hair combed and teeth brushed. I stepped just outside the bathroom door to grab Gray a towel from the linen closet when...

SPLASH!

Who could be mad at this face?

Rut-Roh!

2008-08-18T15:23:00.000-07:00

Caught red-handed! Notice what Colt is standing on to try and reach the yummy muffins straight from the oven.... Any ideas on how to child-proof the oven drawer???

Woohoo!!!

2008-08-13T15:02:00.000-07:00

I'm guessing that you can tell from the picture that Gray had an awesome first day of school! Let's hope that his excitement and enthusiasm continue once homework starts!

Gray came home to one last surprise. I have to admit I was hoping that a slice of cake would lure him into sitting still long enough to tell me about his day. He assured me that he had a great time, but couldn't remember ANY of the details. Gotta' love it!

I never claimed to be good at cake decorating, but it's the thought that counts.... Right?

Rise and shine!

2008-08-13T14:49:00.000-07:00

Gray pleaded for a few more seconds of sleep this morning when we tried to wake him for school. He even explained that it "certainly could not be 8:30 just yet." He was absolutely right on that note; his bus comes at 6:50, with the start of the school day only one hour later. What better way than to start your first day of Kindergarten with a yummy helping of Kindergarten pancakes! The excitement of a surprise for breakfast at least helped us drag him out of bed.

And he's off!!!

Get to Know You Day

2008-08-13T14:40:00.000-07:00

Gray and Mommy went to "Get to Know You" day. Cool Kindergarten dudes sport motorcycle backpacks! Don't you agree?

Gray posing with his Kindergarten teacher.

Gray explained to his new friends that he had made a King Cobra with his Play-doh. His seatmate insisted that it looked like a snake to her.

Our day wouldn't have been complete without ending our celebration at "Choo-Choo Pizza." Gray had a great time playing Mario Bros. at our table while we waited for our pizza.

"Choo-Choo Pizza" just wouldn't be the same without the toy train that delivers drinks to the table. Gray anxiously awaited his refill.

Let's Get Hot and Stink!

2008-08-02T05:45:00.000-07:00

Some of the earliest stories that Allen shared with Gray were of him fishing with his Grandpa Brockwell and dad. Allen shared how his Grandpa Brockwell blessed the beginning of each fishing trip with his coined phrase "Let's get hot & stink!"

It was a scorcher that day, but the fish were definitely biting. Gray caught a bass, a catfish, and of all things... a turtle! (The fish pictured above was one of Gray's.) Colton and I decided that Grandpa Brockwell knew what he was talking about. Get hot and stink...they certainly did! They were sent straight to the showers when they walked in the door. Whew!