jibberish of mine.

I am so loving this beautiful weather and pray that it stays this way and that it wont take two steps back bringing about a cold front. Sunshine, flowers blooming, day light in the night, short sleeves, flip flops- I simply love it. I love them on my little one as well, I love being able to see his little body in all its sweetness. However, this time brings about allergies and in all honesty I hate that part of it. I never really was bothered with allergies until last year, and I suffered. I once took pride that I didn't have to battle them, well- I had to eat those words. Unfortunately, Logan has been battling them himself- and it's pitiful. The runny nose, sneezing, watery-puffy eyes, stuffed-up, coughing- it has been the pits for him and for us because it has been messing with his night time sleep, I guess not being able to breathe properly will do that to ya, poor guy! When this time of the year rolls around I usually like to go and lighten my face up so to speak. I like for my hair to be a little bit lighter in the Spring/Summer and darker in the winter. It has been FOREVER since I went and had anything done. So my wonderful husband scheduled me an appointment and my sweet boys are treating me to a new do. I'm not going to cut it much- just shape it up because it has grown out SO much. The color is the main thing and I love highlights, they light up my face. I am excited about this weekend, getting together with friends, Easter egg hunts, coloring eggs, the "Easter Bunny" and time with family. I can't wait for lil' man to find eggs- he is a little runner now, so he will be absolutely adorable hunting with the others! A picture perfect opportunity. Last year he was so young we pushed him around and he ended up finding all the money eggs- hopefully, he will have the same luck this year. All of his money from any kind of occasion goes straight into his savings account so that one day he will have a good treasure chest.

We recently took Logan to see "How to train your Dragon"- what a great movie, I give it two thumbs up. They had a viking that we got to take our picture with at the theater, pretty awesome if I do say so myself. He has since then been fascinated with Dragons and collected as many as he can from Happy Meals. Speaking of movies, there are several that I am looking forward to seeing on DVD and the theater. I still haven't seen the Blind Side and I know it has to be great, as well as Sherlock Holmes. I am looking forward to seeing Clash of the Titan's, Nightmare on Elm Street (possibly for a girls night out with my dear friend), Hot Tub Time Machine (I personally think it will be hilarious and I love John Cusack), The Sorcerer's Apprentice, Date Night, Letters to Juliet, Robin Hood, Eclipse (with the girls), Killers, Iron Man 2, and so the list goes on and on- it's a good thing we are getting our date nights back.

So, the time is drawing near and I cannot believe that its almost time to say goodbye to good ole' RC. My how I will miss thee, I speak as though I will never be coming back- which is not the case. We have been making progress on the house, slowly but surely and it is so weird with most all of our furniture out of it, it lacks the pizazz now and the whole house echoes, of which Logan finds funny. We are ready to get the show on the road and excited about all the up and coming unknown. I hope this entry finds everyone doing great and as excited as I am.

Unforgettable.

~
Unforgettable, that's what you are
Unforgettable though near or far
Like a song of love that clings to me
How the thought of you does things to me
Never before has someone been more

~
Unforgettable in every way
And forever more, that's how you'll stay
That's why, darling, it's incredible
That someone so unforgettable
Thinks that I am unforgettable too
~

Goodbye's and Hello's.

THE HULL FAMILY IS MOVING...

yes, you read right and not just around the corner- across the state line into- drum roll please...Tennessee. It's all so surreal to me- like any minute we will say JUST KIDDING and go on about life where we are now. Why, you may ask or wonder are we moving?!?! Bruce has been given an opportunity to own his own business and the possibilities are extraordinary, we would be CRAZY not to grab hold and go. We are moving to better ourselves and our lively-hood. The opportunities that are there for Logan are endless; great schools, great jobs, great colleges. We are moving to be with our family again, for Logan to be able to grow up with his family involved in his life....date nights will be re-instated-YES! There is so much to see and do there, so many places to shop. Us girls are thinking about starting up girls night out(s)- dinner, movies, shopping, pedicures- all that stuff us girlie's love to do. We are very excited about building our future, building our retirement, not only making a living but making a life. This new chapter that we are entering into- has not been an easy one and has been considered with MUCH thought and countless prayers. We have so much peace about it and are beyond excited to get the show on the road. I am so proud of B for making such a hard decision and really figuring out what he wants out of his life- our life. I can't wait to see him "in action" of which is another plus, I get to work with him, help him, be a part of his workdays- we will be building our lives together hand in hand- with little man! I plan to work on building my photography business there as well- hoping and praying that it takes off. I know it will take some time, but I pray it gets there. Until then I will still be taking appointments from here and hitting the roads to keep them, because it's my passion- I have keep up my practice. It's going to be a lot of hard work- but as long as we are together, we can do anything, we will make it happen. I can see that Tahoe in my future- "I am coming for you gorgeous!"- If you don't know me well a Tahoe is my most favorite, most lusted after vehicle, and the hubby has said soon and very soon, so we will see how "soon" it happens- I am eager for it to happen like yesterday (another yippee-yay!).

We have the "hardest" part emotionally- done...the breaking of the news to our family and great friends that are here. It was hard, it still is every once in a while when it hits me- but the great thing is we are only a couple hours away and can be home in the blink of an eye to see everyone, which I plan to do often. Logan has to see his bff, ya know. Lol! :) I am so thankful for the Internet which provides a way for us to keep in contact with each other- which is a must. I wish all our bags were packed...but they will be soon. I have no idea where to begin and the thought is so overwhelming. It is amazing how much stuff you can accumulate in no time flat. We are supposed to sit down with each other tonight and get a game plan because B is really good at strategizing and thinking things out- getting a plan into action. I am going to take it slow (well, as slow as I can with leaving in a couple weeks) and go through everything, throw out, give away and sell on ebay.

I am leaving all the personal "baggage" that the big ole' RC holds here-of course I will keep the good memories close to my heart, always. We are starting new- a fresh start- a new us, a new beginning, a new outlook. It's a great thing, I am excited, nervous, encouraged, anxious, happy, sad, enthralled, eager, interested, safe, secure, peaceful, hopeful. "You say goodbye and I say hello! Hello, Hello." The future looks promising and bright.

"Sometimes it's the smallest decisions that change your life forever."

-Much love- and if you would like you can leave me some! :)

-C

quote for the days ahead.

So you all know I love a good quote. To me- quotes are genious. They are encouraging words from someone who has already lived it and mastered at least that little corner of their life. So I take from their wise words and apply them to my own- hoping that maybe I learn a bit more by learning from them. Here are some quotes that I found today that I really like, there is always some quote that defines or see's you where you are at.

“Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma - which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of other's opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.”

“All that we are is the result of what we have thought.”-Buddah

“Little by little one walks far”

“I shut my eyes in order to see.”

“The best day of your life is the one on which you decide your life is your own. No apologies or excuses. No one to lean on, rely on, or blame. The gift is yours - it is an amazing journey - and you alone are responsible for the quality of it. This is the day your life really begins.”

“It is a curious thought, but it is only when you see people looking ridiculous that you realize just how much you love them.”- Agatha Christie

“Any fool can criticize, condemn, and complain but it takes character and self control to be understanding and forgiving.”

“You have enemies? Good. That means you've stood up for something, sometime in your life.”- Winston Churchill

“If ever there is tomorrow when we're not together.. there is something you must always remember. you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. but the most important thing is, even if we're apart.. i'll always be with you.”- Winnie the Pooh (for my baby)

“You must know that in any moment a decision you make can change the course of your life forever: the very next person stand behind in line or sit next to on an airplane, the very next phone call you make or receive, the very next movie you see or book you read or page you turn could be the one single thing that causes the floodgates to open, and all of the things that you've been waiting for to fall into place.”

“It's not so much that we're afraid of change or so in love with the old ways, but it's that place in between that we fear...It's like being between trapezes. It's Linus when his blanket is in the dryer. There's nothing to hold on to.”

“All changes, even the most longed for, have their melancholy; for what we leave behind us is a part of ourselves; we must die to one life before we can enter another.”

“If you do what you've always done, you'll get what you've always gotten.”

"I think I've discovered the secret of life - you just hang around until you get used to it."

"In the book of life, the answers aren't in the back."

"Sometimes when I get up in the morning, I feel very peculiar. I feel like I've just got to bite a cat! I feel like if I don't bite a cat before sundown, I'll go crazy! But then I just take a deep breath and forget about it. That's what is known as real maturity."- Snoopy

"Why can't we get all the people together in the world that we really like and then just stay together? I guess that wouldn't work. Someone would leave. Someone always leaves and then we have to say good-bye. I hate good-byes. I know what I need. I need more hellos."

“It's a troublesome world. All the people who're in it
are troubled with troubles almost every minute.
You ought to be thankful, a whole heaping lot,
for the places and people you're lucky you're not.”-Dr. Seuss

“Rivers know this: there is no hurry. We shall get there some day.”-WTP

“Don't underestimate the value of Doing Nothing, of just going along, listening to all the things you can't hear, and not bothering.”

“We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have.”

“The greatest happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved -- loved for ourselves, or rather, loved in spite of ourselves.”

“Family faces are magic mirrors looking at people who belong to us, we see the past, present, and future”

“When you look at your life the greatest happiness are family happinesses”

I think that should be all for now...more to come- I'm sure. After all they are my favorite. :)

My Little Pilot.

(the hanger, Gpa getting the plane ready for Logan)

(Our little pilot...all smiles)

(Ready for take off.)

I think we may have a little pilot on our hands. He loved playing in his great grandpa's airplane this past weekend. He was amazed at all the buttons and gadgets. He is so amazed as he watches them fly over head- so while we were over there Grandpa pulled it out of the hanger for him to sit and play in. I remember when I was, maybe a little older than Logan, I flew with my dad and grandpa in a plane a little bigger than this one- yea, I actually flew it- I have ALWAYS loved being up in the air...It was so much fun. It wouldn't surprise me if Logan followed in their footsteps and got his pilot's license also. You can get them when you are 16 years old- and he seems just that type of boy. It makes me so excited about all the opportunities that await him!

I can't wait for him to take me for a ride.

knock...knock

"Time is swift, it races by; Opportunities are born and die...Still you wait and will not try- A bird with wings who dares not rise and fly."

We are given opportunities almost everyday. An opportunity to change something bad about ourselves, to make something right, to meet someone new, to learn, to teach, to see life from a different angle, to make the most out of the day, to dream about tomorrow. Every once in a while an opportunity comes along and you have a choice, a bigger harder decision than most because the opportunity invokes change. It requires taking a leap of faith and stepping outside of your comfort zone. Sometimes in the midst of living everyday opportunities we find ourselves leading up to a much bigger opportunity. We cant see the future and we don't know all that it holds for us- we are all given different paths to choose from and which one we choose dictates tomorrow...where we will be, what we will be doing-who we will be. Do we stay where we are because of comfort or do we take the key, open the door and with eyes wide shut leap because the possibilities that are possible are endless. The decision in itself is hard and over thinking it only makes it harder. It should be easy, because well, it's easy. We complicate it, we make it harder because there are obstacles in the way, nothing of which we can't handle. Most of the time when life offers you something great it comes with great sacrifice- it's almost an easy decision and then all of the sudden it's not, it's more difficult because we don't know...we don't know anything. What if- everyone who ever became "someone" stopped just short of making their life happen because they stopped to "think" and that moment, that opportunity passed them by. They let others make their decisions and dictate who they were to be...That's just it, we don't have to ask, what if-because they didn't, they made that choice, they took that risk, they shut their ears to the rest of the world, they closed their eyes, they opened the door, they entered and they made their mark...At the time, I guarantee you they didn't see all the potential there was because it was missing the most important element...it was missing them. We sometimes can't see the whole picture, it's not because we don't try our best to- I think that maybe, just maybe it's because it's missing something...maybe that something is me or you?!?!

“You are now at a crossroads. This is your opportunity to make the most important decision you will ever make. Forget your past. Who are you now? Who have you decided you really are now? Don't think about who you have been. Who are you now? Who have you decided to become? Make this decision consciously. Make it carefully. Make it powerfully.”

“Your regrets aren't what you did, but what you didn't do. So I take every opportunity.”

“We are all faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations.”

a letter to...and from my heart.

Dear Logan:
It's so hard at times to use words as a form of communicating emotion because they fail, they don't come close, and when it comes to you it would take many a million to write down because there are never enough ways to say exactly how my heart beats for you. This letter, won't come close, but it's a start...it's a snapshot of my heart.

I haven't been the same since the moment that you came into my life. Your face alone makes me long to be a better person. Your eyes so full of wonder leaves me grasping for the next moment, the future. When I look at you I see endless potential and all that awaits you. What will you be, who will you become, how will you look even tomorrow. You change everyday, you grow, you get bigger, you learn, you grow smarter; and as sad and heart wrenching as that is, it leaves me ever so more excited. I have this feeling that soon enough photographs aren't going to be a friend of mine, because as much as I love them and all that they do, they capture change and sometimes that's hard to stomach, for a Mom anyway. I look around on the walls, and because I cannot make myself take town pictures from the past, I see a baby and as I continue to scan, that same baby is no longer there. A "boy" has took his place. A boy so full of life and joy- and it is my prayer that you never loose your zest and excitement, your hope, your happiness, your innocence and that force that drives you to do better, be better, that force inside of you, that moves you.

Moments...there are moments that you take my breath away. I wish that I could pick them out of the air and place them in a spot for safe keeping so that I could hold onto that piece of your life forever. To periodically take them out one by one and relive them. That smile of yours, that laugh, the giggle, the funny little things you do, the times when you seem so wise beyond your years, the hugs, the sweet sweet kisses. The way you have to tell everything in the house goodnight before going to sleep. The way you spin in circles until you fall from being dizzy and you find it so funny that you laugh out loud...that laugh that is music to my ears. The way you look at me right before you do something you know you aren't supposed to do- that sheepish grin on your face that looms all the way up to your devious eyes- God, I love it. The moment right before you open a new car, the little squill that bursts thru the room along with the little march you do while covering your mouth because your excitement can't be contained. The way you run to the door when you hear daddy get home, trying to so hard to get it open to run out and meet him. At night when you "can't sleep," when you make daddy drag himself into your room, pick you up and bring you into the big bed- the smile that crosses your face with eyes closed so tightly, in that moment you know you've won (and thats ok by me).The way you love a challenge and even though your temper at times gets the best of you, all you have to do is breathe, start again- and guess what...you master it- everytime...you have such determination. When you give love so unexpectedly. They are all, every single one stored away in my hearts heart. I don't want to forget, I don't want to loose all the tiny details of everyday, but I don't want to hold too tightly that I don't see what is happening new, everday. I look at you and everyday my heart explodes (it's a good thing, I promise)... I can spend a whole day doing absolutely nothing but watching you, learning from you, seeing the world thru an "up and comer." I take such delight in being your Mom. Life is hard, responsibilities are hard, making the right decision is hard...loving you without end- not so hard. You make that part of everyday so easy. In a world of chaos you are still. Bad day?!? No way...not while you are around. You chase them away with a little dash of smiles and little dollop of giggles.

They say that being a parent is hard, and I get that- I get that the mind blowing responsibility of holding someone else's future, their life in the palm of your hand can be quiet nerve racking. When I became your Mom- I took on another roll, that of what some would like to call a "superhero or supermom"- I knew in that moment that there would be many a "bad (fill in the blank)" that I would have to conquer- and you gave me the courage that I needed to believe that I could do just that. When circumstances arise, situations get a little tough for me, I look at you and (being the SUPERhero that you are)...you save me, you come to my rescue, you remind me. You are bigger than the biggest baddest ugliest monster that life could throw my way, you are ALWAYS bigger. In knowing that- it makes everything else so small. With you by my side, I can do anything.There is nothing in this whole world, to me that is bigger than you- you are larger than life, kiddo- you truly truly are.

I want to be the BEST Mom in the whole world to you- no cliche'. I want to be who I am and be good at it. I want to be your friend- but always your Mom first. I wont always know whats best, even though I pretend to, I wont always know what lies ahead, I wont always know the reason, I wont always do the right thing or say the right words. I can't promise that you wont have to wheel me down the isle on your wedding day- because giving you away, trusting that someone will ever love you as much as I do is beyond anything I can conceive. I don't know all the answers, and I don't have everything figured out. I can't promise that you wont ever be disappointed in me or something that I may or may not do. What I do know and can promise is that I will always be here for you, listen and hear you, be true and loyal, honest and trustworthy. I will practice everyday at perfecting the art of being your Mom. I promise that I will kiss every wound to make it better and hug you till your eyes pop. I will laugh at all your jokes, encourage you to pretend, cheer you on as you triumph and cry with you when tears are the only thing that comes. I will sit with you and recollect every moment of your past. I helped you learn to walk and I will help you learn to stand when life buckles you at your knees. I will be your forever friend. I know you will do great things, I know you will make your dreams come true. I know you will be an amazing man! I know there will be times where you will be slinging some dirty words in your mind towards me (yea, we all do it), but that's ok- I probably deserve it. I know that I am so proud of you and I will remind you of that every chance I get. I know that I will love you more than your mind can even comprehend- until the day you hold your own. I will always love you way down deep and all the way up...forever and for always, to the moon and back, as big as elephants shoes, everyday more and more...I will love you until the end, you can count on that.




It is such an honor to know you and to know that I hold your past, present and future. You are truly the most spectacular person I have ever met, you are perfect in everyway...you are my heart.

Happy St. Patty's Day.

...
-An Irish Prayer-

May God give you...
For every storm, a rainbow,
For every tear, a smile,
For every care, a promise,
And a blessing in each trial.
For every problem life sends,
A faithful friend to share,
For every sigh, a sweet song,
And an answer for each prayer.

...

Happy St. Patty's Day

From our family to yours.

Yester-day...Family-day

(Loving our Family Day!)

Yesterday, was what I like to call "family day!" Just the three of us, spending some good quality time together as a family. There is nothing better in the whole world! We had planned on going to Columbia, SC to our favorite zoo- but the night before was a rocky one for little man and he didn't sleep great, neither did Mom and Dad! He got up late, and we didn't want to be rushed there. It's a HUGE zoo and we really like to take our time, PLUS all the photo props that take up a lot of time, lol. So we decided spur of the moment to drive to Greenville and go to the zoo down there since we had already been talking about it to our- Monkey. We had a great time walking around, talking, looking at all the animals, making their sounds, feeding them and just hanging out with each other- sowing into our sons life the importance of family. We ended it with a stop at the zoo gift shop and of course he picked out a truck and cars that he wanted, and since the zoo costs nothing for him and we are big suckers for the spoiling of our child...he got the zoo themed truck and cars.

The rest of our day was just spent hanging out at home watching movies and t.v. and getting a kick out of how crazy our kid is. Sounds like a great day, huh?!? Below are some pictures from our zoo trip- we are looking forward to heading to Columbia, here very soon.

(The Cheetah)

(Up close and personal with the Cheetah)

(Momma- Orangutan)

(Hand-prints)

(Looking at the Lion and Lion-ess, through the VERY thick glass.)

(Profile of a Giraffe)

(Making Elephant noises at the Giraffe's, lol)

(Excited that he just fed the Giraffe)

(Logan with the Giraffe's)

Make "it" Happen.

...

All the Woulda-Coulda-Shouldas

Layin' in the sun,

Talkin' 'bout the things

They woulda-coulda-shoulda done...

But those Woulda-Coulda-Shouldas

All ran away and hid

From one...little did.

-Shel Silverstein

...

My list of want to's is a mile long. Alot of times I am scared to make things happen, I let myself get in the way. The only thing to fear, is fear itself, this I know. I get caught in the comforts of the predictable- and my life is loads of fun, but life has SO much to offer. I don't want to get stuck in a rut- get down to the wire and wish that I would have done, should have done, and know that I could have done, but I simply didn't- because I was too scared to tread into the unknown. I want to be bold and brave and go where I have never gone before. I want to teach my son to "seize the day, to make life extraordinary"- we learn so much from what we see, from actions and if he sees me living in and acting on 'fear'- then what is to become of him. There will always be that characteristic that lingers over him. Our experiences in the here and now play a huge role in the shaping and molding of who we are becoming and I want the pages of my life to be filled with detail, color, experiences, all the good and beauty that life has to offer- not coated with fear, ugliness and wishes that I never made come true.

What do you want to do, see, be, accomplish...before you leave this world?!?! Today's the day- your mountain is waiting, get on your way- make it happen.

I call it.

"True love is true friendship."

So...at dinner last night (my boys took me to the O.G.-yummo) I brought something up to my hubby, a subject about myself that I had been thinking about for a little while- one in which was making me feel kinda strange- I guess you could say. Something emotionally inside of me that is so hard to explain that its not even funny. I had been mulling over whether I wanted to even bring it up or not because of past experiences with people in general, although he isn't just "someone"- (& none of which include him.) During our conversation- as I "pour my heart out"- mubbling, stuttering and rambling on and on to him- he listens without distraction, there is no judgement on his face, no hate in his eyes, nothing that makes me feel like he is one day going to use it against me, turn it into something that it's not, think that I meant it towards him, or to publicly announce it. I felt really safe and secure in that moment, my heart overflowed with sincere joy- and I appreciate that so much, you have no idea...really! A heart is something to not treat or handle without care. He continues to remind me how true and noble someone can really be. He has taught me so much, and I hope that I can one day be the type of person he is.

Being able to talk to someone and REALLY talk to them, to know that they are listening-that they hear and really know what you mean whether they understand it or not, is in part, my definition of a true friend. Someone without judgement, who you trust, who you can be who you really really are- all the way down deep to the core- and they would never ask you to be anyone else, because they love you inspite of who you aren't. When you find that person, why continue to look? why continue to roam around searching for another one? I had to search a long time for him and I cherish him, I am so thankful for him and all that he is.

I believe, and this is just my thoughts- I believe that you only get one, one good one, one that stands out from all the rest. Call it soul mate, call it best friend, call it whatever you may...I call him "my husband." (of course I have other friends- that I love- just in case you were wondering, lol).

Now just a shout out- if that wasn't enough of one, lol...

Thank you, my darling- for everything you are to me, for all the roles you play in my life. For loving me unconditionally, without waiver, more everyday. Thank you for roping the ugly side of me, for supporting me, encouraging me, for always being honest and loyal. Thank you for being so true and rekindling my faith and belief in "knights"- you truly are one. Thank you for trying your best to put yourself in my shoes and to really understand me- and for trying extra hard on the stuff that you don't. You are so much fun, you make life extraordinary. Thank you for being the keeper of my secrets. Thank you for being my best friend in good times and the sucky ones. Thank you for choosing me, I am so glad that you did.

Ya'll cant tell I love and adore my husband can you?!?! No way! :)

Time of my Life.

So we had several beautiful days back to back and boy were they wonderful...Today not so much, it's kind of a blah day. Don't get me wrong, I am actually a fan of dreary weather and rainy days. They are solemn and sometimes that's needed. I am ready for there to be continuous pretty weather, we have had so much snow and yucky-ness that I am ready to get outside and play and do outdoor things with my family. Pictures, galore- they are calling my name. The sun makes the eyes just GLOW and there is nothing more beautiful, nothing that matches a smile better than what I like to call "glowing eyes." I have spent all day at home and I have been thinking about this year- twenty-ten...all of the excitement that it holds and I get all giddy inside just thinking about it. I always like to share my excitement, because well, it's just impossible for me to contain.

This weekend is supposed to be pretty in South Carolina, so we are possibly planning a little trip to the zoo, YIPPEE! I want to go before it gets sooo hot that it's more miserable than fun. Both of my boys are super hot natured and can't take the heat in excessive amounts, lol... It's supposed to be sixty-seven degrees so that will be just perfect. We went to the zoo last year, which was great- however, this year is going to be so much better and I am sure that I will say that every year from here on out. Logan already knows most all of his animals and the sounds they make. We enjoy the zoo just as much...feeding the giraffe's will be very interesting this year, hopefully he wont shy away, fingers crossed. He is at the stage where he gets so excited and so amazed, his actions are just to die for. I am sure this wont be our one and only trip to the zoo this year- they have an event at Halloween and at Christmas that would be LOADS of fun to attend and we are surely planning on it!

My birthday is coming up- I always make a huge deal out of it and say that the whole month of April is mine...I don't usually get away with that- so I am always thrilled when I get to consider the whole week, or in this case the whole weekend as my own. My birthday is on a Friday this year (awesome!) We are going to TN. to celebrate with my family- the guys are going to take us girls to get a pedicure, MAYBE a manicure, I am thrilled for the pedicure- they are my fave! Birthday dinner of course, cake, chips- the whole nine...maybe a little shopping, hanging out, maybe the movies, andd we are planning on going to the Titanic museum that is opening the first of April- it looks AWESOME and the research that I have done (a.k.a seen the movie a million times, lol)- will help in the awesome-ness of the self-guided tour! I may be pressing my luck- but maybe another tat-with the hubbers?!?! That's my pre-candle wish, lol. I am really excited about my birthday, as if you can't tell. Hey...the way I see it- the day that you graced the world with your presence is pretty darn important and is REASON to celebrate.

I can see it now our toes in the sand and my little one RUNNING around on the BEACH! Our beach trip is planned and booked and I am counting down the days. We got a house with a golf cart which we are THRILLED about. Everything about the beach is so wonderful. We have many plans once we get there and places we love to eat every year. I always look forward to putt-putt, build-a-dino with the kiddo (he LOVES dinosaurs), the aquarium and of course, portraits on the beach!

(maybe a second trip somewhere in here!)

Holidays- holidays are tradition which makes them s'wonderful, s'marvelous! Halloween- I am already thinking and planning what we will be this year. Love going trick-treating (as I like to call it.) Thanksgiving and Christmas- are the best. Love the smells, the family- but right now I am ready for SPRING AND SUMMER.

last but defiantly not least: Is it crazy that I am already thinking and planning Logan's second birthday?!?! Cuz I am- I am a HUGE party planner- I love to do it up nice and BIG. As I said earlier, birth-days are VERY IMPORTANT and for me there is not one more important than Logan's. It's the most fun to plan and think about, and giving him presents WHOOOO...The actual planning is a gift in itself for me, I enjoy it so much. I love to do things different and incorporate creative-ness, I think I have a tid-bit here and there. I have several ideas already, I am leaning towards one in particular...but of course nothing is set in stone yet. I so don't want the year to fly by, but I am anxiously awaiting this most important day.

So- that's my year at a glance...all the major highlights. There are very important things/events along the way, families birthdays, holidays, fun stuff that we have planned and will plan along the way. All the simple moments that make life so grand...watching my baby grow, spending time with my husband and my family, simply everything. All the tiny details! Life is such a gift, I am so glad that we get to live it, to experience it, CAPTURE it. I want to live everyday to the fullest and I am working hard to accomplish that. It's so much fun. I have all the people I need around me. They are the best, most wonderful people I have ever met. Tis' another great thing about life...the people in it. I am having the time of my life and I hope this entry finds you doing the very same thing! Enjoy it!

"Every moment is a memory in the making."-Me

The Perfect Fan

I loved this commercial when I saw it on t.v. today. I squalled like a baby, Logan looked at me not saying a word with a sweet little smile on his face- and I know his little brain was thinking, "what is wrong with Mommy?!?" It made me think of him and how I want to be as his Momma- I always want to support him and cheer him on in everything that he chooses to do. I know that he will do so much in his life and excel at whatever he so chooses to do. I hope all of his dreams come true one by one. I hope that there isn't a day that passes by that he doesn't know how proud I am of him, how wonderful he is, that I believe that he can do ANYTHING, that I love him to the moon and back and how much of an honor it is to be his Mom. I hope that one day he can say those things about his Momma; and as for me I will always be his biggest fan.

It takes a lot to know what is love
It's not the big things,but the little things
That can mean enough
A lot of prayers to get me through
And there is never a day that passes by
I don't think of you
You were always there for me
Pushing me and guiding me
Always to succeed

You showed me
When I was young just how to grow
You showed me
Everything that I should know
You showed me
Just how to walk without your hands
'Cause mom you always were
The perfect fan

God has been so good
Blessing me with a family
Who did all they could
And I've had many years of grace
And it flatters me when I see
A smile on your face
I wanna thank you for what you've done
In hopes I can give back to you
And be the perfect son

You showed me how to love
You showed me how to care
You showed me that
You would always be there
I wanna thank you for that time
And I'm proud to say you're mine

it's true.

a peek into Spring.

As most of you know, I am a photographer. Photography is my passion- above all my son is my passion, when combining the two it is sheer magic. He is my favorite subject to photograph! These beautiful days have been great opportunities and I have taken advantage of them and plan on continuing to do so. He changes so much everyday that with every new photo there is something new that I capture about him. I could stare at him for hours, he is so beautiful, so handsome, so breath-taking. I did part one of his"Easter" portraits and of course I have to save most for closer to time but I cant contain them all so I wanted to share a couple in black and white as to not give away all the color! These were taken at my Grandmother's new house which is beyond gorgeous (as were the couple in the previous post), I am so anxious to take more there- but for now here is a "sneak peek" of Lo's Easter portraits (pt. one)- stay tuned for the "in color."

Enjoy, I know I do...It's-he is my most favorite thing.

into the sun.

"You're unforgettable in every way."

...to pick the very best one.

"Sometimes the easiest decision...is the hardest to make."-Me

Inny, minnie, miny, moe...Only if decisions were ever so easy to make. Are all decisions hard, or maybe I should say do they HAVE to be hard? Me, I think that its me that makes things harder than they really are...sometimes. I think when it comes to simple things, simple thoughts, simple questions, simple tasks, simple...easy decisions- I make them more difficult than they really are because I over think EVERYTHING. I have expectations for myself and out of life and I want the BEST out of every situation, therefore, I over think things to make sure that it is, just that- the best...because that's what is deserved.

"Life is just a series of trying to make up your mind."

"The doors we open and close each day decide the lives we live." I am in a place, like the picture you see above, and I am wondering what door I (we) should open, what path should be taken. What will be the best for our family, for Logan as he grows older, for our future and for each of us individually. I think that it MIGHT be an easy decision, but the "factors," our "pro and cons" make the decision harder than it REALLY is, its a big deal and we are prone to "over think" it. We can't make a rash decision, right?!?! When its such an important thing as our future. I do it more often than not, not just with the BIG stuff, but the small stuff that really is easy. The path has already been laid out- the decision has already been made, our lives are held in the palm of His hands, trusting that is hard for me- its a challenge, one in which I am having to learn on a daily basis. I always wish that I knew what tomorrow held because at times I like the "control" of it and yet I so enjoy the wonder and mystery of life. I...simply...want to get it right. Make the right decision- big or small, easy or hard.

I am so glad to have made the decision of my life's love, my "partner in crime"- and my darling little boy. They are the easiest decisions that I have ever made- the best decision, the most rewarding- day after day after day. They bring life to my life, they are the center of my world and they are in every thought that crosses my mind. Every decision is decided with their lives in mine, and that is always certain.

"Sometimes it's the smallest decision that can change your life forever."

"Living is a constant process of deciding what we are going to do."

...

Up in the Air.

This weekend was a blast... My family moved to Tennessee back in the summer, therefore we try to go every chance we get, which is usually every other weekend if not more often. We get mini-vacations quiet often. We started the weekend off with dinner and karaoke at a "small-time" local establishment, that has become a tradition. They have great food, the company is great and the entertainment, well, we will just say that its great as well because the laughs that it brings are! Saturday was BEAUTIFUL, the skies were so blue and clear, the weather was warmer- still long sleeve weather for me and lil' man. We did a little shopping and then decided spur of the moment to take a chopper ride. Logan is obsessed with trucks, cars, helicopters...anything that vrooms. The Helicopter rides were directly across from where we were shopping so he had been watching them take off and land in...amazement. So we took this opportunity to make a little dream, we were sure his little heart was dreaming, come true. It was a blast- he loved it. It was B's first time up in a chopper and Kenzie's first time up in the air. My camera, unfortunately was left back at the home-stead, luckily, my Mom had hers in her purse, I was sooooo glad, you have NO idea!

I love moments like that- the firsts in life are so exciting. Even though they may not be my first time, sharing that moment with the ones that I love the most makes it the BEST! The faces, the smiles, the giggles, the excitement, all the jibber jabber- makes my heart take flight.

The rest of the weekend we spent resting and hanging out, watching t.v., laughing hysterically, and just enjoying each others company. I am so thankful for my family, they are spectacular. We have the best time together. My family is the center of my world. Above and below are a few pics from our time post-air.

Love theses moments, cherish these memories. They are the best part of life.

Confessions of a Sappy Momma.

Hi...I'm Crystal...and I am addicted to my kids smile and laughter.

God, I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE that kid...he is so happy, so full of joy and I want it, I need it!

There is nothing better than seeing how happy he is and how much joy he gets out of the simplest of things, out of everything and nothing at all. There are moments when I get "down," then I look at him, he smiles at me or giggles and just as they say it, "he chases my blues away." It's true, its so true...it happens everytime. Everything is so small compared to how big he is.

He is such a good kid, he is beyond wonderful. He is out of this world. He was and is the desire of my heart. He is the best part of me. He is PERFECT, yea he is, because I'm his momma and I SAID SO! I love being a Momma- I wish ya'll could see my heart and know how much, words just dont come close. My dream, my life's goal is to be who I am in his eyes. You have made me so happy kiddo, you put a smile in my heart forever...everyday.

Who would have ever thought an addiction could make you feel so darn good?!?!

"A smile starts on the lips, a grin spreads to the eyes, a chuckle comes from the belly; but a good laugh bursts forth from the soul, overflows and bubbles all around."

giddy for my love.

Status: Married and loving every second of it.

I am SO pleased to announce that I have a hot date this Thursday with the hubbers. I think it has possibly been a century since we last had a date. The last time was actually for his birthday and we had so much fun that I was ready to go back out the next day, lol... We are a bit freaky when it comes to leaving our kid- since my family moved this past summer we haven't really had our handy dandy babysitters and thus the "dates" have been a bit lacking. We of course do fun things at home such as movie night, take-out, games, and simply just hanging out and those times warm my heart and I, of course, cherish them. However, there is just something about getting all fancied up and going out that tickles me and gets me all giddy! Tomorrow, I will make the half way haul to pick up my wonderful sister who has so generously offered to come stay with us for a couple of days to keep lil' man for our night out on the town. (*insert squeal here...and special thanks to my super-mom for meeting me.)

I can't even begin to write how excited I am about it, as if by reading this you cant tell....So I know the wonderful readers that you are- are wondering what our super fun night is going to consist of... well, we are going to the movies to see "Shutter Island," I am so excited to see it, I should say "we"- because he gets as giddy as me about going out. We have wanted to see it for MONTHS, since last year when the trailer was released. I love getting all the fixings at the theater, so I'm sure we will have popcorn, candy and drinks (*insert another squeal here), and of course we will have dinner as well- can't have a hot date without a yummy dinner. It will be a WONDERFUL evening out with my WONDERFUL husband... I know ya'll are just so excited for me, right?!?! :)

**On a side note, I just wanted to point out how truly wonderful he is. I know ya'll probably get tired of hearing me say it or in this case write it- and ya'll probably wish that I wouldn't so often, but how can I not?!?! I am so proud to be his wife and I simply cannot contain my joy. I feel like I have a prize in him and if I could I would share it with the whole world. He has always been a sweetheart and so romantic, he is a shower-er of praise and love. He balances me out, he is my best friend (and God, I am ever so thankful), he is loyal, honest, sincere and trustworthy, he is the man that I dreamed about as a little girl and is now beyond real (and has been for the past 8 years and counting.) He is the king of my heart. If I tried to write all that I love about him, we would be here for, well, HOURS and I am sure that it is only interesting to me, lol... Sometimes I take him for granted, but there isn't a day that goes by that I don't tell him how much I appreciate him, all that he is and all that he does for me and for our family. I have to say that I feel I am the luckiest gal in the land.

Did I mention that I cannot wait to get all fancied up and go out on the town with my main man?!?! (winky face).

~much love ya'll, and thanks for reading my giddy ramblings about my love~

perfectly perfect.

This is life...

This is happiness...

This is Love.

...

This is my new, could be all time favorite portrait of my guys...you can see and possibly feel my love for them transcending thru the photo itself. I have looked at it probably a million and one times and the way that it makes me feel is indescribable. The smile that's lights up my face warms me all the way to the tips of my toes. I am not perfect, however, my love for them is perfectly perfect.

shadows in the light.

I took this class in college and what I learned really stuck with me. I long to do it in the photos that I take, the things I write, and the life that I lead as well, what I learned was this. Do something and be someone that has a meaning...Everything has a meaning, not necessarily a hidden meaning, but it means something different to everyone. The way we read something, the way we view something, how it speaks to each one of us is different. We can use the same "way," we view something, what I mean by saying that is for an example, do I want to look at a situation positive or do I want to automatically view it as negative. For me personally, I look at life through eyes of hope- and I think I have said it many times before that I am hopelessly hopeful. I am always hoping for the BEST outcome, even in a negative situation I try to flip it and view it as a learning experience, something that will challenge me to be better, to do better, a circumstance good or bad that I can grow and learn from.

I took this portrait of my son and when I got the chance to look at it and REALLY "see" it, it made me "think." I thought and pondered about several different things that leaped out at me so to speak. (*On a side note, I would just like to say that I LOVE when something speaks to me, when it makes me think. )
My first thought of course being how big my guy is getting...What a blessing it is to be able to watch him grow and turn into an amazing man. I saw him looking out into the world with his heart full of dreams, dreams that haven't even been dreamt yet. Where will he go, what will he do?!?! Whatever lies ahead, wherever his path leads, he will always be larger than life. I then saw his little shadow, which turned into a thinking process and research on wise words about shadows, which I will share later.
First...my thoughts- We all have a shadow. Shadows follow us into the light. Our actions cast shadows on people-good or bad. We can live in the shadows of someone else or we can be who we truly are. Shadows are shade that allows for a breath of fresh air. Sometimes our shadow is bigger than we are. Shadows are silhouettes. Shadows are forever, they never go away. Shadows can be haunting. Without shadows how would we know how we measure up? Do we sometimes live in the shadows of the past? or the shadow of things yet to be? If you always feel as if you are living in someone else's shadow, remembe there is someone who is living in yours. Shadows have a bad reputation, but is that deserved, isnt it only a truth of something or someone? Sometimes we see shadows, but there is nothing on the other side. Shadows show us detail. Shadows show our burdens. Shadows paint a picture of black all that we hope to be. Shadows showcase beauty, and they can be an ugly sight. Do we embrace our shadow or are we scared of it because it shows truth...

I don't know if at times I understand my own way of thinking and if I truly know how much of a jumbled up mess my brain is...whether these thoughts mean anything to anyone, they do to me. I don't know if they make sense to anyone else-however, they are enlightening to me.
The reason for the entry being, I simply wanted to share my thoughts on something as simple yet as complex as a "shadow." Now, as promised...wiser words than mine (not that mine are in the least bit wise.)

-"Everything that we see is a shadow cast by that which we do not see."
-"I have a little shadow that goes in and out with me, and what can be the use of him is more than I can see."
-"It's very easy to say that something is a shadow of itself, and it may be true in some senses."
-"We are shaped by our thoughts, we become what we think. When the mind is pure, joy follows like a shadow that never leaves."
-"I decided long ago to never live in anyone's shadow, if I fail or if I succeed, at least I did as I believe."
-"Because everything we say and do is the length and shadow of our own souls, our influence is determined by the quality of our being."
-"For me, it's even more interesting, because my character comes out of the shadow..."