The Arnold Family

Hmmmm

2010-04-21T20:57:00.003-04:00

Has anyone noticed that this blog is non-existent lately????

Maybe I should give it up and just put updates on Facebook.... all of you who read it are my friends on there too...

Opinions?

Oh and there is a picture...but I think it is on FB so you have probably already seen it if you are reading this!

MVI_3000.AVI

2010-01-08T11:32:00.001-05:00

This is Brant having fun in the snow...which is now ice!

Brant's Christmas Day!

2009-12-28T16:41:00.001-05:00

We all had to take turns in the cold with Brant. Thank the Lord it wasn't rainy all day. We had a blast watching him enjoy all of his presents, but this one is the BEST!

2009-12-28T11:07:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas to ALL!

2009-12-23T16:30:00.002-05:00

The Years Fly By

2009-12-09T18:42:00.007-05:00

This was just insane to me as I look back on this year (and my millions of photos). And all I can think about is how different it will be next year with a 4 yr old and a 6 month old... I am learning quickly to savor every moment!

Family Weekend in Macon

2009-11-18T18:38:00.005-05:00

The family headed down to Macon this past Saturday for birthday fun for BA (30th by the way!). We also attended my friend Joni's wedding on Saturday night which was a blast. Ms. Debra's entire family - minus Shannon, Stacey, and kids - came over to the house too, which was great!

I got to meet Christy (yay) and see family that I hadn't seen since our wedding! It was a great time of family, but the best part was watching the kids play together. Can't wait for Jackson to get big and be running around with them too!

Here are some pics from the day!

Here are Hadyn and Brant playing Air Hockey

The cousins playing with the dollhouse

Nana and Brant setting up the dollhouse

The cousins pause for a photo-shoot

All the kiddos on the trampoline

Chris, Christy, and Jackson

Nana, Aunt Pam, Aunt Carol, Allyson, Lauran, Kaitlin, and Hadyn

And last, but NOT LEAST, the Brandon Arnold Family!

Thanks for all the love you guys show us!

November Already?

2009-11-02T09:42:00.004-05:00

October was one BUSY month in the Arnold Family:

La's wedding
Fall Festival
UGA football
Financial meetings galore
Bathroom reflooring
Brant's First Field Trip
Halloween
not to mention things at work, etc.

Needless to say we have been crazy lately. I am so happy it is fall and that things might begin to settle down... oh wait... Dad's Bday, BA's Bday (30 by the way), Ashley's Bday, Mom's Bday, Thanksgiving, Christmas....

DOESN'T IT EVER SLOW DOWN???

Now I know why they say that the older you get, the faster it goes. I think it just means that you have more to keep up with and worry about, so you never feel like there is a dull moment.

I have to be reminded to slow down and breathe, and that I can't do it all. Like Blog...

Here are a couple of snapshots of our life this past month with some excerpts along the way.

This is Brant and his friend, Trey, bouncing in a jumpy at the FFTF Fall Festival!

This is Brant touching a snake at the Chattahoochee Nature Center's Halloween Hike

This is Brant posing by the Turkey on his field trip (MiMi went too) to Berry Patch Farms.

This is Brant smiling with his "happy pumpkin" after we carved it together. Daddy was busy tiling the bathroom floor, so we headed to the pumpkin patch down the road and got 3 pumpkins. 2 for Brant and one for the porch. He helped carve until he had to help dig out the yuckies inside. Not his favorite thing... he said it was sticky and slimy. He told me to finish.

Here is Brant (power ranger) and his friend, Porter (Woody from Toy Story) racking up in the candy department on Halloween.

Brant enjoys looking at all the blow ups and the lights more than getting the candy. Although, once he felt he had enough, he was ready to get home and eat it!

Brant and Brandon had lots of fun in the leaves yesterday. They would rake them in a pile and take turns jumping in. Then they covered each other in leaves. Brant had tons of fun with Daddy this weekend. Good thing, because BA has to work almost every Saturday in November, so we will not be seeing him too much! :(

Happy November all. No promises, but I will attempt to have more than one post this month!

2009-10-06T17:30:00.000-04:00

Who is this heart-throb in this picture?
He had ME at hello for sure!

Keep an Eye on your Camera

2009-10-01T20:56:00.004-04:00

If you are near our son, keep an eye on your camera. I walked into my bedroom last Saturday night and this is what I found. Apparently, Brant is trying to perfect the self portrait that his Mommy is famous for. Check these out!!!

Don't you love how he squints when he smiles?

I could stare at this smile all day long!

I love this last one because it is a great look at how well his chin is healing!
Thanks for all of your prayers!

Too Cute Not To Post

2009-09-16T20:24:00.001-04:00

I have no words...

Perspective

2009-09-16T19:48:00.005-04:00

Perspective: the state of one's ideas, the facts known to one, etc.
Keeping this definition in mind, I will let you in on what I discovered last night at our school's Family Skate Night at Sparkles.

I remember the Monday night skate nights that I attended while going to Hopkins Elementary School in Lilburn, Ga. I remember going to Skate-A-Long off Beaver Ruin Rd, over by the Southern Athletic Club (which I used to think was so cool). I remember how the skating rink wasn't the best place to hang out on any night other than your school night, and even then it was questionable. I remember skating to all the songs, holding hands with my friends as we fell on our faces, the hokey-pokey in the middle of the rink, and all the dumb speed skaters that thought they were so cool. (I bet they have gained some perspective now that they are older!)

However, the one thing I remember the most is Mom being there and being apart of it all. Even when I didn't want her there because I thought she was cramping my style, she was there and laughing with me, laughing AT me, and praying I didn't kill myself.

I didn't realize all of this until I gained some perspective last night.

Brant COULD NOT WAIT to skate. All he could talk about was how he was going to skate with his friend Trey (pictured below). He said I wasn't going to help and that, "He could do it himself!" I finally understood what Mom felt like when I was little. Here I bought the tickets, am going to pay for it letting him stay up later, and am chasing him around making sure he keeps those stitches in. And him, well he didn't want anything to do with me!

BUT I WOULDN'T HAVE BEEN ANYWHERE ELSE FOR THE WORLD!

As you can see below, he DID need me. I have never felt more uncoordinated in my life than when I was on that rink in skates trying to move and hold up a 27 lb. little boy who did not understand how to support his OWN weight on his skates. But at the same moment I felt like an idiot trying to keep him up, I felt like the luckiest person in that building. I won't ever trade those kind of moments with my son for anything in the world.

The only thing that could have made my time with Brant better was if his Daddy was in town to share it with us. I hate that the most about Brandon working out of town. He feels like he misses the little moments like this where Brant is experiencing things for the first time and soaking it up... and that's what life is all about.

I can only imagine what the day will be like when Brant accepts Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior. What a MOMENT that will be!

How thankful I am that each and everyday I am gaining PERSPECTIVE to help me understand and appreciate all of life's little moments.

A Video to Wet Your Appetite

2009-09-16T06:27:00.002-04:00

STITCHES

2009-09-11T20:21:00.002-04:00

For those of you who don't already know... Brant has had his 4th trip to the ER in his 3 years. Apparently he DOES take after his Daddy in some areas!!!

Just a refresher:
1st trip - 8 months, bit into the coffee table and both bottom middle teeth were facing outward
2nd trip - 13 months, in Destin FL, fell and bit the dust on a tile floor, thought he bit through his lip...no stitches required
3rd trip - 15 months, ran and hit the door hinge at school, 5 stitched in the middle of his forehead
4th trip - 3 yrs, chased a dog and pulled on his tail, pulled him down, bit through his lip... 6 stitches outside, 3 inside (approximately)

He is a trooper. This one looks like it hurts more than any of the others. But he doesn't even care. Nana took such good care of him he says its all better.... "Don't worry about it," he said.

Love you all.
Here is a picture!

::Labor Day Weekend::

2009-09-07T13:22:00.004-04:00

So its Labor Day (September 7), almost a full month since my last post. I am finding that being an elementary teacher, a single mom during the week, in a bible study, serving the church, and cleaning take more time than I thought, and I wish God could multiply my time. I know that one post a month is horrible, but I feel as though most of you know what is going on in our lives...even if I don't write about it up here.

Needless to say we have a had a great weekend. Brandon's sister, Aunt Ally, came up for a visit and Brant has ADORED having her here. On Saturday we hung out and played... and anxiously awaited our HD receiver so we could enjoy our new TV to the maximum degree! It got set up right after UGA kick-off, and although we lost, I will say it was enjoyable to watch on the big screen in my own living room. Ya know - not having to find another reason to go over to my parents house and act like it wasn't just to see the games! (Love you guys!)

Then on Sunday my parents took our family to the Braves game. Yes - Brant has finally been to Turner Field... and he LOVED it. Here is a picture of what he saw from our seats.

For the first 30 minutes he just looked around. He was in awe of the field, the players, the stands, and the cheers. After the newness wore off, he wanted to explore. Brandon and I set off to take him around. We went to Tooner Field where he played on the miniature diamond, then we set off to the alleys to take a look at all they held. He saw radar guns where the "big boys" saw how fast they could throw. Then he saw a batting cage for the "hard bats and hard balls" as he liked to call it. Then we FOUND IT! A batting cage just for Brant. Pro Hitter JR. It tossed wiffle balls from a simulated pitcher on the screen and it looked just like the ball was coming out of his hand. Brant took a turn and missed all 5 balls (they were coming in high) but he looked great doing it. We took him back to our seats to watch more of the game, but he was through watching... he wanted to play! So Mimi, PawPaw, and Ally took him back to the cages for his shining moment. The lines were long and he waited patiently, watching all the older boys go before him. Apparently he was taking notes while he waited, because they all said that when he stepped in there for the 2nd time he was ready. On the last pitch he HIT THE BALL. He then decided to run around the batting cages, as if he was running the bases, and then slide into the home plate. MiMi said everyone watching erupted in cheers and applause for my little ball player! He was so excited to come back and tell us all about it. IF ONLY WE HAD IT ON CAMERA!

Needless to say we had a blast. And now we are Laboring hard on Labor Day (go figure). Brandon is hanging the TV over the mantle and I am cleaning around the house. Once he is done we will rearrange the furniture (AGAIN) and get the living room set up for his (Brandon's) optimum viewing scenario!

Brant has been swept away for a spontaneous week at Nana's in Macon. He is so excited and I know will have much more fun than he does here! However, I am gonna be one lonely mommy without him!

Love to all!
And sorry there aren't more pics from the game, but my battery died :(

::Still Blogging::

2009-08-13T18:19:00.004-04:00

I promise I haven't stopped blogging... but a lot has gone on since our vacation to the beach.
In bullet form:

Brant had his 3 year doctor's appointment
Brant caught the Chicken Pox at his "well" check
We had the Pox for a week, which technically was a GREAT week for Brant. He stayed at Mimi's, played with Hayden (his BFF) non stop, got a helmet and a new "aluminum" bat, and went to the Rome Braves' Stadium to get tickets to his first game and ended up being able to go in the stadium and look around (almost walked onto the field).
He then went and spent the week in Macon with Nana and Grandpa
Came back to go to the Rome Braves' Game that got RAINED OUT. How to explain to a 3 year old that his first real ballgame has been rained out (while the sun is shining overhead) is a little tricky.
My friend Sarah came to town for a couple of days
We then spent 3 days at school (my pre-planning) on our later summer schedule
Only to head back to an earlier schedule ( with me teaching ELEMENTARY SCHOOL - YAY!!!) on August 10th
BRANT IS POTTY TRAINED! It just clicked with him. We are still working on it to completion, but he has gone ALL WEEK AT SCHOOL WITH NO ACCIDENTS! We are all so proud of him! And he loves his underwear...in fact, I need to get him some more.

Needless to say, our last month has been a little hectic. All the while BA has been traveling back and forth from Columbus in a car that may not last much longer and has no AC.

I promise to post more soon. Once I get my bearings on my schedule and my life... I will post regularly!

Here is a picture or two of Brant at school this past month to wet your appetite!
Love to all!

SGI 2009

2009-07-13T09:28:00.004-04:00

So I was not sure how to sum up the vacation. I think I could blog about it for a while. So I decided to just make a video about it using Windows Movie Maker. Never tried this before.
So let me know what you think!

::What Time Is It?? ITS SUMMERTIME!::

2009-06-25T19:08:00.005-04:00

So. It is SOOOO HOT when Brant at I get off work and get home that we end up in his pool like every afternoon. Here are some pics from today! He is a crazy man... and I can't wait to get to the beach and have LOADS of uninterrupted fun with him, my hubs, and the rest of my family!

Love you all! EnJoY!

Is he getting bigger or what?

He loves to spray mommy and daddy!

Cool picture!

Sunshine!

He seriously looks huge in this picture...even though I know he's not!

Happy First Birthday Lee

2009-06-16T06:21:00.002-04:00

One year ago today, I was rushing with my mom and sister down to Piedmont Hospital to witness ( from the waiting room ) the birth of my nephew Lee Thomas Hardman. I married into being an aunt, to 3 wonderful kids (wassup Gatlin, Ashton, and Caroline!) but becoming an aunt by birth to one of your own sibling's children is something so different to me! I think it has to do with the fact that I am a girl for starters. But to be a mom first, I was able to understand what my brother is about to feel for this little person. Knowing what a great uncle he was and what a great aunt Amelia was, and understanding how that is going to make them even greater parents was neat to witness. Knowing all of that while I was waiting in the hospital is a feeling that is too difficult to put into words. I couldn't wait for Lee to get here and my brother experience the blessing of being a dad, yet even more so, I couldn't wait to be as great of an aunt to their child as they had been to mine!

I will never forget the look on my brother's face when he exited that delivery room to let us all know that "Lee Thomas Hardman is BORN." It will be with me a long time... and I will live to tell Lee how I was in the waiting room watching the Bulldogs as we waited for him to arrive.

I love being Aunt Lin-Lin... only wish I could see him more! Can't wait for his party this weekend. And for the many summer birthdays that he and his cousin Brant will share as they grow old together!

Love you Hardmans... savor every moment because they go by WAY too fast!

Brant's 3rd Birthday

2009-06-15T20:23:00.005-04:00

SO, Brant's third birthday has come and gone! WHEW... it came and went fast... and I still can't believe that I am the parent of a 3 year old. It really does fly by... I used to laugh at everyone who said that like... REALLY?? (cause in the baby stage you think it will never end sometimes). But it really is true. I know you want to see pics from his party, so to get the good stuff of his third bday, just click on the photo above of him finishing off his cupcakes after everyone was gone!

You are my Sunshine!

2009-06-05T06:55:00.001-04:00

You are my sunshine
My only Sunshine
You make me happy
When skies are gray
You'll never know BRANT
How much we love you!
Please don't take my sunshine away!

1 week till we are 3... can you believe it?
Love you all!

Final Memory With Nanny

2009-05-26T21:36:00.003-04:00

Was taking pictures at Nanny's funeral on Saturday and found this photo on the camera. Hadn't loaded it onto the computer yet, but this is Brant's last moment with Nanny. We visited her on Mother's Day, just 9 short days before she passed. He went back to her room and visited and I went back to take pictures. He was fanning her with a large fan and they were watching videos of him on this blog. He was making her laugh, and getting a kick out of himself as well. I am so thankful that he had 3 years with her. He WILL remember when we tell him the stories and show him these pictures. I only wish he could have had the wonderful 26 years I had with her. She was truly an amazing woman, with more to share on love, life, and others than most around. She will live on in me until the day I die and get to go see her!

We will continue to love you and miss you Nanny. You were one of a kind!

Memorial Day Slideshow

2009-05-26T21:34:00.002-04:00

::Rainy Memorial Day::

2009-05-25T15:22:00.003-04:00

I will post more pictures later, but this is Brant following his Daddy into the creek. After this, they disappeared for like 15 minutes and I was not about to go after them. The water was cold and deep. But like I said, I'll post more later...but here is a video to wet your appetite.

::Pictures from April::

2009-05-03T20:30:00.003-04:00

::Brant getting sprayed by Daddy::

2009-05-03T20:25:00.004-04:00

::Brant and the Golf Hazard::

2009-05-03T20:25:00.002-04:00

::Brant Playing Ball::

2009-05-03T20:24:00.000-04:00

::Easter Sunday::

2009-04-13T16:54:00.002-04:00

We went to brunch with my family on Easter Sunday...here are some pictures!

::Friday Night::

2009-04-13T16:50:00.002-04:00

So we went to the home opener, dispite the weather alerts. At least we were there! We left at midnight...and still missed half the game! What a night!

GO BRAVES!

2009-04-09T19:25:00.003-04:00

::Bible Stories::

2009-04-02T20:29:00.006-04:00

So I know that I keep uploading videos, but Brant is at that stage in life where a picture just doesn't do him justice. (so am I actually...but in a different way) Anyways - nighttime has been difficult lately with BA being gone for work. He calls for Daddy a lot and we have to talk about how he is far away. However, I am trying to keep everything as normal as possible...although it just takes 3 times as long this week. So, Bible Story time approached tonight and I agreed to let him "read" me the story of David and Goliath. I let him begin, and was brought to tears. I ran to get my camera, and forced him to re-enact it for me. This is something that has no price. I will treasure this moment for the rest of my life, and am so sad that his Daddy wasn't here to capture it with me. However, that's why I hurried to post it so Daddy could see it NOW, not later.

He is a sponge. It has become evident how important it is for me to guard his mind, his body, and most importantly his heart starting now. The things that Brant Arnold is going see his Mommy and Daddy place importance on, and hopefully that he will grow to love are found in Philippians 4:8-9 "...whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice."

Said also like this in The Message translation: "Summing it all up, friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies."

It is not a coincidence that my bible study I do each morning was on this very thing today. Then God revealed it and made it real to me tonight. Join me in this commitment as you are all apart of Brant's life in such different ways!

Thank you God for your hand in everything. For the way you make your ways real. Your mercies are NEW every morning!

Now all of you can enjoy the video...I know you will LOVE it.

2009-03-22T20:46:00.001-04:00

Some more tunes for you...CDs are available upon request.

We may have a musician on our hands...

2009-03-22T20:44:00.001-04:00

Big Helper!

2009-03-22T20:37:00.001-04:00

::School Photo::

2009-03-21T14:16:00.001-04:00

I cannot begin to describe the feelings that these pictures bring out in me. I feel like he is growing up TOO fast!

Spring Afternoon

2009-03-19T20:15:00.001-04:00

::Family Weekend Slideshow::

2009-03-01T19:53:00.001-05:00

::Family Weekend::

2009-03-01T19:42:00.002-05:00

Last weekend was a Family Weekend...

1. We started Saturday with my Uncle Ken's retirement from the Georgia Air National Guard. He became an honorary Colonel...We are so proud of you! There are some pics in the slideshow from that.

2. We spent the night at my parents' house because Nanny was staying there. There are some pics from that.

3. We had lunch after church on Sunday, after hearing LaLa sing (she tore the house down). Uncle Bryan, Aunt Mena, and Lee came over too, as always! I had so much fun with Lee...I don't think I left him alone unless he was sleeping. He is SO adorable and fun to be around. A great baby...kudos Bryan and Mena. There are pics from that on the slideshow....and if you want to see more then check out the Hardman Blog. Love it!

Not much on tap for this week. Brant will be going to school...hopefully not tomorrow because of snow day? (we hope). And then Brandon will be back and forth from Columbus this week. His job will mobilize by the end of the month at the latest, so we are spending lots of time together before he leaves.

Love you all! Have a great first week of March (can you believe it?)

::Way Overdue::

2009-03-01T19:18:00.004-05:00

This is a picture of Brant eating an edible arrangement that was sent to him the day after his surgery....almost a month ago, I KNOW. It was sent by his Aunt Lauren. Not my sister Lauren, not Brandon's sister Lauran, but my BEST friend since sixth grade LAUREN BERLIN. The only reason he doesn't know her as his aunt right now is because she lives in Nashville. Even though she is far away, she was here the day he was born, and has been apart of my life - every important event (lots of surgeries!) - before he was born and since!

I love you Lauren and Deke too (her husband)!

::Apology::

2009-02-25T18:31:00.003-05:00

I have so much stuff to post... that I am overwhelmed.

I will post this weekend - I promise. But to give you a taste of the goods I have coming your way I will tell you one story...

Last night as I was reading to Brant before bed, we opened up his Toddler Bible Stories book that his Mimi gave him. We turned to David and Goliath to start. He was SO intrigued. He wanted to know why Goliath was so big and mad! So we read the short story and I added some details that a two year old would want. We finished the story and I asked him some questions. He answered all of them flawlessly until I asked the final one... WHO WON in the end?

His answer: KEVIN HARVICK! (Nascar driver #29 for those of you uneducated in the sport)

Thanks PawPaw for filling my son's mind with Nascar...he thinks about it so much he even thinks they are in the Bible!

Then to top it off we turned to the story of Creation. All he could point out was Adam - and he was "naked boy"! Why is he Naked Boy mommy? Where are his clothes? He needs clothes!

And so this is my life...question after question, all day long! I LOVE EVERY SECOND THOUGH!

Love you all. I have great pictures to post along with more stories.

::Post Surgery Update::

2009-02-11T18:04:00.003-05:00

Surgery went well. We are at home now, after his first day back at school. He had a great day and was really excited to see his friends, almost as excited as they were to see him!

He is still a little swollen, and I haven't seen the stitches yet because that waterproof bandage is really holding up! Will let you all know how that goes in the days to come. So far, he hasn't tried to rip it off yet, so thats good.

We have to go back to the doctor in like 2 to 3 weeks to make sure all is well, but I am sure it is.

Here are some pics from the day. We had a great experience at Children's...even as early in the morning as it was! I would recommend it to anyone. Dr. Bussey was wonderful...

This was before we went back. I thought we would be leaving soon...thats why I had on the hair net. Didn't leave soon...took it off. Glad I don't have to wear one of those in my profession.

Brant was a returning shopper to the games, books, and chalk. He loved Connect Four. He and Daddy played for like 10 minutes.

Close up of the nervousness...he wasn't a happy camper for the most part. I think he knew...

Post-op making sure we can keep things down. At least it was a Popsicle...and he loved it. It wasn't the lollipop he was begging for (ya know - Dr = Lollipop) but he didn't complain.

::Quick Update::

2009-02-03T18:29:00.002-05:00

We have been to the doctor, actually yesterday. Turns out he does not have a hernia...however he might as well. He has the same condition, except that in a hernia intestine comes through the small opening in the inguinal canal, but instead fluid has flowed down into Brant's. This is called a hydrocele. You can go look it up on the Internet and become very educated, but there really is no point because the treatment is exactly the same.

We will go in for surgery at Children's on Monday morning (we hope am, but we won't find out till Thursday) February 9th. YES - my birthday. Happy Birthday to ME! However, I am just glad that we got in so quickly and we can get this over with.

I love the doctor and think that everything is going to go really well, except the whole not eating and drinking thing, so everyone can start praying about that now.

Well - off to tend to Brant. He is doing well, but I am thankful that many prayers are being lifted in our name. They are felt!

We love you all...and you know I will have pictures up of the whole ordeal for all to see!
I have a feeling Thomas will be right by our side...and maybe we'll pull puppy out of commission to join us too!

2009-01-28T19:04:00.004-05:00

I know I haven't posted in a while, but let me explain.

Sick child (virus was what they said), found something on Brant's groin that caused concern, sick husband, sick mom, back to Doctor to find out that Brant has a hernia that must be removed through surgery...oh yeah - and a double ear infection.

Needless to say, we have had a plate full lately. Brant has a consultation appointment for this Monday the 2nd, so please be in prayer for us as we determine the next steps to take. We will be going to a Pediatric Surgeon down at Children's at Scottish Rite.

Pray also that I find energy. I start back my after school program next week. I have 2 open houses to attend for our elementary/middle school since I am next in line for a teaching position with new enrollments. Not to mention that Brandon should be locating to Columbus shortly with his job in full swing...I hope he feels better soon too!

Long story short we have a lot going on, and we need your prayers.

Some pictures...we started fixing up our house a little to make it a "home". Here is some proof.

These aren't the best pics but I guess that just means you have to come check it out yourself!

And yes - we are looking into a bigger TV... plus - these are process pics, not the finished look.

Don't have any pictures of the green wall, but it is massive, and you should come see it so we can tell you the ghetto way that Brandon had to paint it...REDNECK might be the word. Brandon would call it innovative.

::Thomas The Train::

2009-01-11T20:23:00.003-05:00

As you may have noticed, many of my posts lately have revolved around Thomas. Thomas was the main attraction this Christmas, with some Cars and such thrown in. Yesterday Brant asked me to set up his track so he could drive his trains. I didn't even use all the track or accessories...but this is still enormous! Check out the set up and the happy little boy on the other side. This is in our living room, so we have determined that we have got to come up with a solution for his trains...space is desperately needed.

Kaitlan - I am sure you had a blast setting all this up. It was our first time trying at home...it took forever!

::TWO VIDEOS::

2009-01-09T12:20:00.003-05:00

I know its been a while since I have posted. But we have been trying to get back in the swing of things after a great break. BA and I both had the week between Christmas and New Year's off and we got to spend a lot of time together. We re-did our living room with paint and a new entertainment center. It looks great!

But I had to put these videos up so that you can see what has been going on at our house. Brant has a new big boy room that I need to put up pictures of. Also, these new books that we got for Christmas are wonderful. His favorite is Aunt Kathy's addition of a musical book about Thomas that has a microphone attached. Here is Brant serenading his parents before bedtime.

Enjoy!

::Daddy and Me::

2008-12-27T14:22:00.003-05:00

Me and Daddy eating the Gingerbread House that Kaitlan made.

::Christmas Video::

2008-12-27T14:15:00.000-05:00

::Off to See the Donkeys::

2008-12-27T11:16:00.002-05:00

Brant went on a walk with Nana and Kaitlan to see the donkeys down the road. They said he loved it. He was excited to be able to pet them and talk to them.

We have a climber on our hands!

There were alot there for him to see...

Doesn't this one look like he is having a conversation with them?

And my little one giving some sunshine on the way!

::Christmas Morning::

2008-12-27T11:14:00.001-05:00

Christmas morning was so much fun. He didn't quite know what to think at first...(i will upload videos later)...but he warmed up very quickly to the fact that all this stuff was for him! He loved the trains, and I can't wait to see his face tomorrow when he gets even more!

Here are some pictures from Christmas...

He was so excited about the bridge...

He wanted to try and make a "really long one"...

This is him wrapped up in his Thomas Blanket...

::What I Do When I'm Bored!::

2008-12-12T17:03:00.002-05:00

Aren't these the cutest things ever?

::School Pictures::

2008-12-06T17:12:00.000-05:00

I get a CD each month with pictures on it of Brant at school. I happened to be in lots this past month, but I just had to share these with you! Hope you are finding rest this holiday season...We are trying!

2008-11-29T15:43:00.004-05:00

Here is a slideshow from Macon. We just got back from Thanksgiving. We had a blast. Brant is definitely at a testing age, though, and I am CONSTANTLY praying for patience. Join me in that prayer would you?

Santa Claus is Comin'...

2008-11-17T16:03:00.002-05:00

So I've been playing with a new photo editor, picnik.com, THANKS MEREDITH!

Here is my latest creation...ADORABLE if I might say so!

ENJOY! Get ready for Santa!

::Lately::

2008-11-11T19:40:00.002-05:00

We have been having a blast as a family. We have been goofing off, celebrating birthdays, playing outside, and learning learning learning.

The happenings this past week:

1. PawPaw's Birthday - we celebrated with tons of fun at their house. You can check out the photos below.

2. Lee's Dedication - my nephew Lee was dedicated a Buckhead Church during a really cool dedication service. I am sure they will have the photos up on their blog soon. Check my links on the side. My camera was dead that afternoon...go figure.

3. Random playdates outside together! So much fun to just relax and be a family. See below.

I will end with a video. Probably one of the cutest ever. I know it is kinda dark, but you don't need to see as much as you need to hear. Enjoy!

::Halloween::

2008-11-01T09:29:00.004-04:00

Much more of a success that I had imagined. Mimi, PawPaw, Lala, and Sammy came over for dinner and trick-or-treating. We had a blast. We ate Brunswick Stew and enjoyed our time together. Going to houses went much better than I was expecting, although getting him to say trick-or-treat was a chore. We got please and thank you out of him though, and we always left with, "HALLOWEEN!" It was a lot of fun and thanks to the last minute costume additions thanks to my friend Angie we had us one tough looking Fireman! Here is a slideshow. Lala dressed up halfway as a baseball player to encourage Brant...so they set off with his Lightning McQueen candy bucket (cause you have to have Cars in there somewhere) and got him some candy. PawPaw and Mimi stayed behind and handed out candy at our house then we all enjoyed the rest of the night together! Happy Halloween!

::The Park::

2008-10-30T17:59:00.007-04:00

Went to the park today. Brant had a great time RUNNING everywhere. Had to leave early though, and you will see why in the slideshow. We took pictures the whole time but when it was time for him and Lala he just wasn't going for it. That was fine, but then the NOs and the throwing himself on the ground started...so we left. He screamed the entire way home, which upon arrival he sat on his bed all by himself for 5 minutes until he appeared ready to apologize. He wasn't exactly sure why he was saying he was sorry, but after I refreshed his memory he agreed and said he was sorry. The beginning of a long road with a stubborn, strong-willed child JUST LIKE ME! (and Brandon too from what I hear)

Love to all! Enjoy.

::For Aunt Bruce::

2008-10-28T15:34:00.004-04:00

So, after a phone call from my mom saying that her life-long friend Bruce had called to complain, in a nice way of course, about my blogging, I decided that I better get on here and update. Unfortunately, I have not taken ANY pictures at home this month...I think it is the first time this has happened since Brant was born. I do have a CD with pictures of him from school last month, but it is at my mom's at the moment. I will upload some of them asap.

We have kept busy here. Brandon has been given the definite that he will be on a job in Columbus, GA. Glad he has a job, but we aren't thrilled it will be in Columbus. We will be apart during the week and reunited every weekend...for the next year and a half. He is really doing well though and taking lots of initiative...who knows...maybe a promotion upon completion? This is for the Army, so it is going to be GO GO GO!

I have been out of town and back for retreats and conferences for school. Having lots of fun and loving what I do, but keeping a house in order at the same time is just a chore.

Brant is great. Showing more interest in the potty, and doing well. He is talking up a storm and will talk your ears off if you let him.

We are looking forward to the holidays. Thanksgiving here and Christmas in Macon. Should be loads of fun!

Hope all of you are well. The only picture I have is above...but it sums up this month!

SUNSHINE!

::Recent Pictures::

2008-09-21T15:01:00.005-04:00

Here are some pictures since I last posted...ENJOY!

Check out this train table...

Me and Mommy at the Museum.

Mimi, what are you doing to me?

Nothin' but smiles from Baby Lee!

What a Chipmunk!

What are you laughin' at Baby Lee?

Sweet kisses for Baby Lee!

Checking in on Baby Lee...you alright?

::I know::

2008-09-21T14:50:00.002-04:00

So...here is a list of all the things I know.

1. I know I am in the category of "Bad Bloggers" at this present time.
2. I know that it is frustrating when you get on my blog and only see ONE post from the month of September.
3. I know why my mom tried to avoid doing things on weeknights if she could.
4. I know what I am getting Brant for Christmas.
5. And I know how much Brant would enjoy a sibling.

Now - to some of you - those things on the list are self-explanatory, especially numbers one and two. For the rest, I will explain.

WE HAVE BEEN SO BUSY. Our days/nights have gone like this during the Month of September.

Sundays - Church and family time
Mondays - Lindsay/BA work, Lindsay Biblestudy (loving it!)
Tuesdays - Lindsay/BA work, Lindsay Emmaus meetings (So blessed)
Wednesdays - Lindsay/BA work, BA softball games...great fun for Brant
Thursdays - Lindsay/BA work, actually sit and eat dinner together and talk...sort of
Fridays - Lindsay/BA work, go to bed EARLY
Saturdays - NO WORK, and UGA FOOTBALL

Needless to say we are jam-packed during the weeks lately, mostly my fault, and that explains the lack of posts.

Brant's Christmas present? We spent a free educators' night down at, "Imagine it! The Children's Museum." Its right next to the GA Aquarium...Brant loved it! It had a child size train table that you could pop up in the middle of, he never left its side. It has sand, a truck, a full stocked house with a kitchen, a grocery store, a conveyor belt and everything, and a huge ball section where you can do all sorts of things with balls and machines! So, I recommend it to anyone who has kids...such fun for everyone. But through all that I think we are going to have a train themed Christmas this year!

Brant enjoying a sibling? We have been carpooling with a friend to work since May, and he loves being with her two boys. I think he thinks they ARE his brothers. Also, he is enjoying Baby Lee (his cousin) so much more lately. He asks about him and looks forward to seeing him. I have pictures to prove it.

So, hope you are caught up. I will try to stay out of the bad blogger club, but I can't make any promises. With all we have going on, after Brant goes to sleep, Brandon and I are lucky to get 15 minutes of US time in before we pass out.

So keep us in your prayers and we hope all is well with you! Remember the Arnolds love you!

Visit to Macon

2008-09-02T17:10:00.001-04:00

Here is a slideshow of our trip to Macon. Not too many pictures cause I don't want to bore you. We had a great weekend with great family, good food, and loads of fun! Can't wait to get back down there soon!

So just sit back and relax and enjoy the photos as they change on their own (for those of you who don't know what a slideshow might be...)

School CD

2008-08-13T16:55:00.000-04:00

These are pictures from Brant's school CD I get of him each month! Too cute to pass up! ENJOY!

::OVERDUE...I KNOW::

2008-08-12T18:25:00.005-04:00

So, I understand that my efforts have been few these past weeks. With my camera being gone, I assumed my thoughts boring and chose to wait until I had it back. Then, time got the best of me. However, after many requests...WE ARE BACK!

Brant has had an eventful few weeks. Last time I posted I was home sick with him...so not much has changed. He got better and went to Nana's for a week down in Macon, which he LOVED! Then he came back to school and got sick again. This time worse. He threw up (for the first time) in the car on the way home from school last Thursday. I was trying not to flip out, and luckily I carpool with another mom that works there and she was able to talk me through it. It is just SOOOOO different when it is your child. Went to the doctor after he threw up at school the next day to find out his other ear was beginning to get infected and he probably had a stomach virus. After the 10th person got sent home the next day....I knew the Dr. was right! Brant was just the first one this time. So, he stayed with MiMi on Friday so I could go to work and then he and I spent the rest of the weekend there to hang out with Nanny (my mom's mom).

We had an eventful weekend. We went to pick up my dad from the airport on Saturday night. He returned from the Connie Mack 17-18 year old baseball World Series a CHAMPION! GO Yankees! Here is a picture and video of Brant that night.

Why could he not run to PawPaw instead of circle him?

Then on Sunday Brandon came and joined us (after working on the car practically all weekend only to be more frustrated...poor guy!) and Bryan, Amelia, and Lee made the trek to Acworth for lunch. Here are some pictures from there!

He was happy until we made him take pictures!

Isn't Baby Lee precious?

PawPaw and Baby Lee...How great is that?

Baby Lee in MiMi's arms...it did seem to be where he was happiest...but who wouldn't be?

They did not want to get their pictures taken!

::Camera Problems::

2008-07-24T13:36:00.002-04:00

I want to apologize for not posting in a while. Aside from mentioning we have been trying to get back into routine lately after the fourth of July holiday...I have misplaced my battery charger to my camera. Between taking it to work, on trips, and being at home, it is hiding in a bag somewhere or at work. I have yet to find it, but when I do, photos will resume and I will begin posting more. I just feel that a post without a picture is boring to you all.

However, I have been at home the past two days with a sick little one. He has an ear infection and a virus. Needless to say, he has been pitiful. He is on an antibiotic and a steriod, not to mention the decongestant and motrin for his high fever. So doped up and happy, we have been hanging out the past two days. He is headed to his MiMi's tonight so she can keep him tomorrow and Mommy can return to work.

I will update as soon as I can. Lets hope I find my battery soon. Love to you all!

::Birthday Present Time::

2008-07-04T09:41:00.005-04:00

So, for Brant's birthday we decided to go do something with him instead of getting him toys or clothes. So yesterday, we took a trip to the GA Aquarium. HE LOVED IT! He kept running around from exhibit to exhibit saying, "More Fish!" We were very glad that he had such a great time. He was very interested in everything, and we are glad that we went in the morning because as we left the crowds were enormous. It would have been a nightmare chasing him through all those people.

Here are some highlights:

He loved the Jellyfish..."Taking on the Jellies (from Nemo)"

This was his favorite spot because he saw the diver and this was the tank that had Dori and all the other fish you would see in Finding Nemo. Nemo was in his own seperate tank down the hall, but he was so fast I could never get a picture. Below is Brant waving at the diver cleaning the tank...the diver waved back at Brant and he got so excited!

Brant and Mommy in front of his favorite spot. We went back twice to this tank. He didn't really want to take the picture, but it didn't turn out that bad.

This was us inside the penguin exhibit. They had a tube you could crawl to and virtually be inside with the penguins. Brant was scared at first, but then he was fine. Pretty neat!

Brant in the tunnel with Daddy looking at the whale shark. Those things are huge!

Inside the gift shop, since we went to see the 4D movie we decided against buying him anything, but he was a good sport. There was so much in there he wanted everything. Maybe he is going to be a marine biologist and ride Shamu when he grows up.

This is me and Brant with Deepo, the Aquarium mascot. Brant was excited to take the picture, although you can't tell.

What's a trip downtown without getting a little heartburn at the Varsity. Brant's second trip and the hat isn't old yet! YES!

Here are two videos as well. At the end of each one you will see him run off and say "More Fish!" That is why I had to cut them off and chase him.

Enjoy!

::Creek Walk::

2008-07-04T09:26:00.003-04:00

On Tuesday afternoon, the fam went to our local park and had a blast. Brant played on the playground and then of course gravitated to the creek to throw some rocks. He got a little more curious this time and decided to step in the creek. This led to a walk for a good ways down the creek. Here are some pictures:

Brant found a tree he liked and decided to sit on it!

Also, Brant found a rabbit and decided to try and get it. This is the video:

::The Weekend::

2008-06-30T18:06:00.003-04:00

This week has officially begun...and boy are we excited! Brandon is on vacation, we are headed to the GA Aquarium on Thursday, and then it's a holiday weekend! What is there to be bummed about?

Last weekend started off great with a visit to see Uncle Bryan, Aunt Mena, and Baby Lee. I was in heaven holding him the entire night, and Brant was in heaven because he left with MiMi. Here is Brant's very first picture with his new cousin.

On Friday night before we headed to my brother's...Brandon came home with a HAPPY for me! Front Porch Furniture! It is awesome. We put it together Saturday morning and sat together before our day began. Then on Sunday night we enjoyed the pink sunset after the storms. I am so excited to be able to have this and spend time together!

Saturday was jam-packed with Joni's birthday at the lake and then softball games. Brandon broke another finger, so all is well. He is bummed it started his vacation, but he'll live. He is being a great patient and following instructions. So, slowly but surely it is getting better!

Below are some pictures of my first flower arrangement made by flowers from my yard. I am amazed at how pretty it turned out to be...once again, credit to the previous home owners for planting some pretty awesome annuals! And without watering them due to the ban, I think they have turned out pretty well!

So - here is a HAPPY BIRTHDAY BOUQUET for Ms. Debra (Brandon's Mom) whose birthday is tomorrow! Hope your day is awesome and filled with joy! Wish we could be there, but we will see you soon! You deserve it!

::Update from Us::

2008-06-24T20:10:00.004-04:00

So, I know that I failed to acknowledge Brant's 2nd birthday! The VERY REASON FOR THIS BLOG, and he didn't even get a birthday post. I will obviously skip this story when I am telling him about his childhood. We did however, have a birthday cookout on Father's Day. And here is the look that we saw the most! He got it...it was great! I can't even imagine what it will be like next year when he is anticipating it...such fun!

Below is a picture of Brant's return to his very own backyard. Apparently he was watching Nana water the flowers when he was down in Macon for the week (they took him for a week to spend time with him and allow me to be available for the birth of my nephew). He asked to "water flowers." So I gave him the hose to see what he would do...and this was the result.

I know some of you have kept up with how I was worried about Brant not eating at school. Well, I just wanted to put up a picture to prove that he is a great eater now. He still needs some work with the utensils though!

Under here is Brant's new obsession....COUNTING! He has learned to count to ten and will count anything in front of him. This is a picture of him at school counting his friends before they go outside. They all sit by the door and sing songs before going out, and Brant decided he would count his friends for the teachers. They said he did a great job, but that after 10 he looked confused. Well...at least he has caught up to Bryan's intelligence level at that age, right Bub?

This is Brant counting again. This time he and a friend were counting pine cones. I got suspicious and asked for the rest of the story and found out that after they were finished counting they started chucking them at each other....great.

So as you can see, we have been up to lots of fun over here. Brant turned two then went to Macon for a week, my brother had his little boy (a buddy for Brant - who will meet him this Friday...pray for gentle touches!), Brandon is working his tail off submitting bids, I got my first paycheck for my extra-curricular sports program...which blew me away to get paid like that for something I LOVE, and I am getting to see my sister almost twice a week. Life is good.

Like I said, Brandon is working hard and getting to take some time off next week as a reward, so we are going to take Brant to the aquarium for his birthday present from his Mama and Daddy. On Friday Brandon and Brant are going to get to meet Lee, my new nephew. We have Joni's birthday party this weekend at the lake and our last two church softball games. So, although this weekend is jam packed, hopefully we will slow down a bit and get to relax. Can't believe it is almost July...this summer is going by too quickly!

Love to all!

Apologies

2008-06-17T08:28:00.003-04:00

Last night when I hurried on to post the picture of my brand new nephew, Lee Thomas, I noticed it has been a long time since my last post. I guess it is time for me to get on the ball.

We have been staying busy with work, softball, and Brant. He had his 2nd birthday party on Sunday and it was awesome. So many family and friends stopped by to help us celebrate and he was loving every minute of it. After that he went home with Nana and Grandpa to Macon so I could be free to be with Baby Lee when he arrived. And also cause Nana hasn't stole him in a while and she was due.

Here are some pictures since I posted last...I have more but these are the ones I HAVE to put up now.

Loving the shower with daddy....he screamed, "Its RAINING!"

His first shower with Daddy

Check out that cupcake...he was tearing into that icing.

Showing off his presents to all his guests

NEPHEW

2008-06-16T23:13:00.002-04:00

I am officially a new aunt! My brother and his wife finally had their baby at 7:08 pm tonight. His name is Lee Thomas Hardman. He is 7 lbs 12 oz. and 20.5 inches long. He has a beautiful head of hair and mommy and baby are doing great! We are so excited.

::School FUN::

2008-05-22T17:25:00.002-04:00

The last two days at school Brant has been having a blast. Not to mention he is talking up a storm...he is starting to piece together a few words to try and form sentences. So excited. WORDS! WORDS! WORDS!

Here are two pictures you just have to see!

::It's Broke::

2008-05-19T20:10:00.005-04:00

Today while playing outside, Brant and I discovered a frog. He was hurt, and at first that what Brant was saying. "He hurt. He hurt." So I went and got him some water to see if it might put some life back in him. There wasn't anything noticeably wrong with him, so I thought maybe he was just dehydrated or something...what do I know about frogs? So as we got him some water I went to get the camera. When I started videoing...Brant changed his story to, "It broke." I thought that was the cutest thing ever. He was very concerned for the frog, and sadly I say that the frog is now dead...but Brant made me move him, "there" and to the "bush" about a dozen times. What an adventure we had this afternoon.

Here is a clip...Enjoy.

::Lauren Walking::

2008-05-13T16:32:00.001-04:00

WAHOO!

::Off The Payroll...Sort Of::

2008-05-13T14:58:00.003-04:00

Well, I am back from a weekend in Lynchburg, VA watching my little sister graduate from college. It was such a sweet time of family and the focus being on her...and baby hardman. We all had a great time and I wanted to post some pictures and a video for all to see. Lauren is home for a while, which I am ESPECIALLY thankful for, and make it a point to see her in case she ends up going to D.C. and follow her heart. (Why she has to do that I'll never know...JK)

What a great family picture...minus Brandon and Brant who would have been bored out of their minds.

Love the School of Religion...and all 1 million graduates!

Lala and Pat Pat...as they are known to my little one.

The ones who made it possible for this INCREDIBLE day to happen!

::The Video::

2008-05-06T18:12:00.001-04:00

::Big Boy Bed::

2008-05-06T17:07:00.004-04:00

So, I know it has been a little while, and I apologize. I do post as often as I find time between work, cooking, cleaning, being a mom....oh how quickly life changes!

This past weekend was spent at home...Brant at MiMi and PawPaw's. Brandon and I got lots accomplished and that's where the story begins. As I was deep cleaning, sort of...and Brandon was cutting the grass in the rain, I decided that it was time to go ahead and change Brant's crib into a toddler bed since I was moving it to vaccum. I decided to be "resourceful" as I called it, and do it on my own. Without instructions, and without Brandon's opinion...I began. This was not so complicated...take off the front panel, put on the wood slat to keep the mattress from sliding. I could handle it. Well, after using my little wrench for a good while on my own I called in reinforcements. Brandon came in, assessed the situation, and determined that we did not have the proper screws to secure the new slat. Frustrated and impatient as I was, I said fine. He said, "so put the other back on?" I said, "I'll handle it."

Looking back I am not sure Brandon feels that my way of handling it was best. But my decision was to go ahead and take the rest of the crib apart, put the full matress for his future bed on the floor, and go from there. Needless to say...this is a jump without any type of warning for Brant. I will say that it is going fair. We had two great nights this weekend, due to the fact he was exhausted. However, last night he put up a fight. I think he slept by the door the entire night...he and Porter must have had a chat about it on Saturday. But, we are sticking to it and I am sure that I will report in no time he is a full fledge BIG BOY minus using the potty!

Here is a pic of him on Monday morning when I went to wake him up...priceless.

Also, Brant has had a few accidents since I posted last. He fell and hit his head on the coffee table, and then he went to Nanny's and hit her table and got a black eye. I don't have a pic of both, because I blew it, but I do have one of the first injury.

Here it is...

Look for a video later on...its of our "Little Tiger Woods!" I'll post it as soon as it uploads.

Love to all!

Am I an Eater now?

2008-04-28T20:10:00.004-04:00

I know I just posted...but this is too good not to put up right away. Apparently I like to eat now. One of my new favorites is Spaghetti.

Check me out!

::Family is the Best::

2008-04-28T19:58:00.003-04:00

I will say that one thing I have come to enjoy is being around family. Friends are great, and I love to hang out with them too, but nothing makes me happier than being able to be with family. There is just something great about being able to be vulnerable and real without ANY fear of judgement around those that you love the most. And even still, that is hard to do, but if you can't do it around family, then where can you?

All that said, we hung out in Macon this weekend and it was well needed. It had been too long since we had seen Brandon's family and I am so glad we made the trip. We got to check out the girls' dance recital, celebrate Shannon's birthday, and be with all of the family at ONE time. That hardly every happens, so we soaked it all in. Brant had a blast with all of his Aunts and his cousins. We were all sad to leave.

I will post some videos later on this week that are just too cute to miss.

Until then, here are some pics from the weekend...

This Week

2008-04-20T19:00:00.001-04:00

This is our week or so in pics (of Brant of course). We have been running...work and the warm weather have kept us busy. We have been enjoying being outdoors and loving the long days. Brandon has had numerous trips to the doctor for his finger, and we still aren't exactly sure what is wrong with it, so continue to be in prayer about it. We definitely know it is broken, but he is going to get an MRI on it to see what further damage has been caused. This coming weekend we will be heading to Macon for happy and sad occasions. Brandon's cousin passed away this week after being in a coma for a week from a 4 wheeler accident in Alaska. I would type details, but it would be long. Just be in prayer for the Arnolds. It is his Dad's brother's son, and he was a little older than Brandon. On a happy note, we will get to see all of the family and celebrate Shannon's birthday. Not to mention see Lauren and Kaitlan's dance recital. So, we have a busy week ahead...and I can't wait to let everyone in on my new professional endevour once I have more details. Love to you all...

I think Brant may love Coke as much as me...uh oh!

What a cutie pie on the way to the park.

Lovin' the water and sticks!

This is what I do all the time now!

::Give HIM Praise!::

2008-04-11T16:06:00.003-04:00

I don't know if all of you saw this or not, but if you fell asleep like I did, then catch the end of Idol Gives Back. They ended with Shout to the Lord...

It is incredible to me that such a secular show with MILLIONS of viewers would end in such a powerful way!
This is AMAZING...I have chills!

::School Pic::

2008-04-10T16:07:00.004-04:00

I will write more later, but I wanted to get this up there for those of you who are asking for it! Here is his latest school picture taken this week.

Enjoy!

::BBALL::

2008-04-04T16:37:00.005-04:00

So, one of Brant's new loves is basketball. MiMi and PawPaw got him a basketball goal for Easter and it is his new fave. We know his Aunt Ally is going to be SO PROUD! He still plays baseball, hockey, and golf...basically anything with a ball of some sort, but he is lovin' basketball...or "BA-UH-BALL" as he calls it.

Last Friday night, Brant was playing outside with his ball and goal. He made 2 shots and was loving the praise he recieved from Mom and Dad. However, he kept trying and just couldn't make it happen again. This frustrated him to no end. Some of you have seen the video, and I wish I could get it to work, but it is just too long. Needless to say, he would shoot, and then cry, and I mean cry big alligator tears until he could concentrate and shoot again. He would do this only to miss and cry some more. He ended up getting very frustrated, so we tried to help but it only made him more mad. He made BA and I go inside the house while he stayed outside trying to make it. He had such determination, but it was to no avail.

So, when he wanted to get it out on Saturday morning I was very hesitant. I didn't want his failure to ruin our morning. I just didn't have very much confidence in my 21 month old to make baskets. Let's just say he isn't necessarily built for the game, if you know what I mean. He is short, white, and at this point in his career he can't jump. And if he's anything like his mama, he never will. But what he lacks in stature he makes up for in determination, or what my husband likes to call "want to."

Without further words...here is the video I took on Saturday morning, not 12 hours after the mental breakdown.

::Braves and Warm Weather::

2008-04-02T20:10:00.006-04:00

So on Monday we went to the Braves game, that is I went with everyone else. Satan definitely tried to ruin my day and my birthday present from my parents, but I didn't let him. Brant went home from school with a high fever, which turned out to be a sinus infection. Then Brandon called me midday and told me he was going home because he wasn't feeling well. He ended up not coming to the game and just watching it from the bed at home. So, bummed as I was...I went to the game with the rest of the crew and had a blast...that is until the 12th inning when we finally lost. Always a excited to get to go to a game at all though, and now that it is baseball season I am even more pumped! Watchin' the Braves as I type...

Here are some pics from the game...

This is the girls as we expressed what we were feeling after we tied it up in the ninth!

This is my picture with my husband (at home in bed).

Today it was a gorgeous day and Brant and I headed to a new park (new to us) for the afternoon. Apparently you can't play on the playground in our neighborhood without being an athletic club member, so we found a free place to play thanks to Russel and Olivia. Let me just tell you, WAY BETTER. It had trails, baseball fields to watch, a creek, and a playground. Brant had a blast exploring and getting into everything he could.

Here are some pics from our afternoon...

Horses are so much fun

Gotta love the swings

Sitting and throwing some rocks into the creek. I showed him how to throw the big ones in the deep spots to make a huge splash. He was lovin' it.

Big gulps eh? Gotta stay hydrated after all that play...

I have some videos from this weekend to put up that are priceless, but they are taking forever to download. So be patient...and hopefully you will be seeing those soon!

Love to all! Go Braves!

::February Scrapbook::

2008-03-26T20:36:00.006-04:00

Finished the February Scrapbook page. For your enjoyment...

The first picture is both together like it will look in the book and the next two are pictures of each individual page...

::Easter was Fun::

2008-03-25T16:21:00.008-04:00

What a week we have had since I posted last. Let's see...

Aunt LaLa - or as you will see from this video below Aunt "Crackers" - was home for spring break so we spent lots of time at MiMi and PawPaw's so we could see her. Almost everyday we either went there or she came to our house. We were glad that she was home and we got to spend some time with her! Here is a video of her and Brant.

Easter was this weekend and on Friday Brant had an Easter Egg Hunt at school. His teachers painted all the kids' faces with red noses and black whiskers to look like bunnies. They were SO adorable. His teachers said he didn't really want to keep the eggs as much as he wanted to throw them...That's MY Boy!

On Sunday we went to church and then over to MiMi and PawPaw's for a family gathering. All of mom's family came over, except for the sickies (Ash and Ken), and we ate lunch. Brant got his Easter presents from MiMi, Nanny, AND Aunt Claudia...sure does help being the only great-grandchild huh? My brother Bryan knows ALL about that, he was the only grandchild for almost nine years until we all came along. But, he got more cars than we know what to do with. We came home with about 20, and we left some there! He got CARS the Movie, car eggs, hot wheels, match box Cars, Cars from the Movie, Cars books, a Cars Blanket, a basketball goal, and more. The kid racked up! Here is a picture of Brant and his friend Haydo lounging on his Cars blanket...this was right after he got it! He was so excited...and I think Haydo might have been a little jealous.

Lastly, we are back to normal. Going to school and getting boo boos. Now he has gotten his first black eye. He was getting out of a chair in their library and fell into a shelf. He caught his fall with his left eye. Doesn't seem to bother him, but it looks like I beat my child. Mom says I have to be really nice to him now in public so people don't think that I did it.

Well now that I have written a novel, I will stop. More pictures to come when my sis emails me some from her camera. Love to all!

Oh yeah - and get excited...Braves Baseball starts this weekend! WAHOO!

::Lots to Share::

2008-03-16T20:56:00.005-04:00

So...we have just gotten our hyper child down to bed and I decided to sit at the computer to update everyone.

Brandon and I spent the weekend in Knoxville for a wedding. It was beautiful and loads of fun. We were concerned for family and friends with the weather we missed and are glad to hear that there is no damage to speak of at my brother and Amelia's. We had rain there, but nothing like everyone had here. Here is a picture of us in front of the TN River where the reception was held.

Brant spent the weekend at MiMi and PawPaw's and was none too happy to return home to us today. Mom helped by getting him down for his nap, but when he woke up...he wouldn't even look at me. So mad MiMi and PawPaw were no longer here. He is talking a lot more. Saying lots more words and people's names. Today he said "Mama...crackers please" clear as day. I about died. And you will see from the video at the end of the post what he has been learning to say otherwise.

We also started using a booster seat tonight...and if tonight is any indication of what it is going to be like...I am pumped. He ate half of a porkchop...I didn't even put any on his plate because I just knew he wouldn't eat it. He saw my plate and pointed to it and said please. I cut some up for him and he was eating it faster than I could cut it. What a surprise...maybe he is going to become a good eater in his old age!

Lastly, we had an adventure with a lady bug today. As you can see from the pictures below, Spring has sprung at 2055 Greenhill Pass. Thanks to the elderly couple who owned the house before, we have beautiful flowers that are in bloom. One flower had a lady bug on it that Brant discovered and wouldn't leave alone. He was running everywhere with it and would drop it, then pick it up and exclaim, "I got it!" He didn't like it when the lady bug crawled on him though...that was a bit much. Needless to say, we spent the majority of the afternoon in the yard. I pulled weeds, Brandon washed, waxed, and detailed my car, and Brant ran around like a wild one. We were a sight to see. I was just happy to be outside and soaking up the sun!

Hope everyone's weekend was great and I can't wait to see my sister tomorrow! She will home for a whole week! I am SO ready!

::Not Much To Say::

2008-03-11T20:16:00.004-04:00

Not too much to say on my end...

Brant has been in a weird little state lately...stomach issues and mommy issues. I guess I must be pretty cool, cause he doesn't want me out of his sight right now.

Other than that, there is not much to speak of. We (brandon and I) are headed to Knoxville this weekend to celebrate my DEAR friend Sarah's wedding. I will post pictures later hopefully. Brant is headed to MiMi's for the weekend, which I am sure he is STOKED about. He loves to say MiMi now a days!

Here are some pictures from Saturday...it snowed here most of the day. Brant was lovin' it, although he was a little confused by it.

::Scrapbook::

2008-03-05T18:18:00.002-05:00

So, I know this isn't as cool as Bryan and Amelia's latest post (check it out by clicking on their names if you haven't seen it already). However, I wanted to show off my creation. I am no longer getting the service at school where they create a scrapbook page each month for Brant because the older lady has moved and the new person only does digital pages. I personally like the handmade pages better, so I have kept the CD program and have vowed to myself (and Brant unknowingly) that I will take that CD each month, and along with my personal pictures of him, create a page for his scrapbook. I will admit I am a tad behind, but I have to wait till the end of the month to get the CD, and it seems that it takes me a month to decide what to do and which pictures to use. So, according to that schedule, I am right on time!

So, just wanted to show it to you on here, since all of you might not be able to look at it in person. I love to do this kind of stuff, as some of you who have recieved home-made birthday presents might have figured out by now! But it is only a hobby, although, if I could make GOOD money doing it, I would in a hearbeat!

Here is to Brant in January, and please ask to see if you ever come and visit. Not only would it make my day, but it is AMAZING to see how much he has changed since only August!

::Quick Update::

2008-02-28T18:58:00.002-05:00

The Lord has done a number on me.

Brant has been completely healed. He has NO infection, NO fluid, and his Tympanic test came back totally regular! It is a complete turn around from last month when he had an infection and fluid. Needless to say, we are NOT getting tubes on Monday. We are going to wait and see if he has finally beaten this or if another infection comes. First sign of another one, and tubes it is, no questions asked.

Thanks to all of you who have been praying for him...God heard your prayers! Let's keep lifting him up and maybe we will beat this!

Love to you all...have a safe and enjoyable weekend!

::Prayers::

2008-02-27T18:17:00.005-05:00

Everyone keep us Arnolds in your prayers this weekend...

Tomorrow is Brant's pre-op appointment for the tubes he is getting on Monday. Pray that he cooperates and that his appointment is smooth.

On Friday, I leave to go to Knoxville for my friend Sarah's bachelorette party and a shower on Saturday. I am really excited, however, just pray for my safety on the drive alone.

Brandon and Brant are headed to Macon for the weekend to spend some much needed time with his parents. We haven't seen them since Christmas, and I am sad that I will not be there, but I am so glad that BA and Brant are going to make the trip. Brant has grown up so much since then and I can't wait for all of the Arnolds to see him!

Also - shout out to Ally, hope your finger is healing up quickly and that you are back at it in no time. Brandon just filled me in this weekend on it and I hope that things are back to normal for you and your game soon! I wish I was going to get to be there with all of you this weekend, so take care of my boys and send them home safe!

Love everyone and keep us all in your prayers!

::Get Ready for This::

2008-02-20T18:27:00.002-05:00

BEST PICTURES EVER (or this month at least)!

Hope you all had a Wonderful Wednesday!

::This Week::

2008-02-18T20:15:00.003-05:00

I realize it has been a while since I posted, however sickness struck our house. I guess it was not actually sickness, but I was not feeling well at all due to allergies that weren't responding to medicine. I am feeling much better now, which I am glad about. But alot has happened since I posted last.

For Starters:

1. I am now 25 years old. Can't believe it. Time flies. The main reason I cringe at each birthday is that means my sister is getting a year older too, and I just wish she could stay 15 the rest of her life and always be my little sis...because the older she gets, the cooler she gets. She is passing me going 90 miles an hour and it is hard to keep up...but she still hangs out with me anyways. Thanks La.

2. We had Brant's ENT appointment and they said he is a strong candidate for tubes. We had two choices. Wait to see if this ear infection that he has had for a month goes away, or go ahead and schedule the tube surgery and postpone it if things get better. We, or I, with Brandon's approval afterward since he was at work, chose the later. We have scheduled his tubes for March 3rd. We go for a pre-op appointment on the 28th of February and if things have improved greatly than we can put the surgery off and see if we improve more. However, since his ear infection has not responded to two rounds of antibiotics already, I assume we will be getting tubes on that Monday. I am excited however, and really think that Brant will be more comfortable and respond excellently to them!

3. We did a retreat on my birthday weekend for the church called Thrive and we taught 6th graders. Brandon said he wasn't sure if he liked the taste he got of what Brant will be like at 11. I just laughed.

4. I had a great birthday and Valentine's Day. Had lots of great gifts and thoughtful calls. Thanks again to all of you who remembered me on those days! I love my gift cards, my Vera bag, my Braves money, my collages, and the cold, hard cash!

Here's a pic or two of Brant. Not too many pics because I haven't been feeling well, but I promise more later. I feel like I have to take pictures of him everyday because he is changing so much.

Love you all!

This is Brant enjoying his snack and watching his Nemo!

This is Brant enjoying circle time at school. He loves to sing songs and dance with the teacher. It is a HUGE deal that he is sitting and paying attention...he is GO GO GO!

::Where is Spring?::

2008-02-05T18:09:00.000-05:00

We so wish that the groundhog had told us that Spring was on the way...he didn't right?

Here is something to brighten up your somewhat rainy day!

We love you all...

Brant's Spring pictures are tomorrow...with a live bunny. And then on Friday we go to the ENT so keep us in your thoughts!

::This Week Re-Cap::

2008-01-31T20:10:00.000-05:00

So, lots has happened since I posted last. On Thursday I took Brant to the doctor to check out his ears. He has a slight infection in his right ear and still has fluid present in both so they referred us to the ENT. We have made an appointment for next Friday.

We had a great weekend (Friday and Saturday that is). I went to a baby shower for a friend on Saturday and had a great time. However, on Sunday, I woke up with a stomach bug that would not give up. I missed work on Monday and Tuesday which is not like me, and Brandon took Brant to school and picked him up and did everything for him Sunday through Wednesday. I think he proved a lot to himself, but it also made him realize how much moms do. Especially moms that work and have to get a baby ready and out the door by 6 am. I was so grateful for him. He allowed me to get well, and took care of my every need. He even had Brant in matching clothes!

Wednesday took me back to work and in the routine. All the while Brant has been having a blast at school. He seems to grow up more every day. His new words are bubble, hi, bye, and he signs thank you very regularly. Especially when we leave school, I always make him say thank you to his teachers.

Also, for those of you who are in the know. My brother and his wife are having a baby in June and Brant will have a cousin just 2 years younger than him. Holidays are going to be DOUBLE the fun now. I have posted the link to their blog they are starting up under my fave blogs on the right side of my page...so check it out!

Here is our week or so in pictures...love you all. Will be trying to post a video in the next day or so that I took tonight. Classic! Getting excited about my birthday. I will be a 1/4 of a century old a week from Saturday. (How old does that make you feel Mom?) Enjoy...

Watchin my video with my popcorn and marshmallows

Am I cute or what?

This is just too precious not to put up.

Brant's fingers were yummy after Jello day at school. He licked them all afternoon.

This is Brant tipping back the Ginger-Ale mom needed for her tummy...it was empty.

This is Brant getting creative while Mom cooked dinner

Here is Brant having a meal with a friend at school!

This is Brant hugging the turtle outside the school...precious!

::Sorry its been a while::

2008-01-23T20:18:00.000-05:00

So its been a while since my last post. A lot has gone on. Nothing too interesting to write about, but fun for our little family. Let's see...

On Sunday the 13th Brandon and I had been married a WHOLE YEAR! They say the first year is the hardest, and if that is the case, I am in store for a lovely, fulfilling, and EXCITING time, to say the least, in our marriage. My Mom and Sis were in Israel, so since the only babysitter we use here (MiMi) was gone, we opted to take a trip the next weekend. So, on Friday the 18th we left for Gatlinburg. I had never been and was really pumped. We rented a small cabin up the mountain between Pidgeon Forge and Gatlinburg. It was a very pretty time of the year to go, not as pretty as fall I am sure, but it was pretty none the less. We spent Friday looking around and getting settled and then Saturday we hit the shops (my idea of course). See, the holidays are a rough time of year for Brandon. He has Christmas, our anniversary, my birthday on Feb. 9, and then Valentine's Day, all in a row. Needless to say, he was excited for me to pick out some gifts and knock them all out while we were there! With no argument from me, I came home with two new Polo dresses and a new rain jacket! Both things I need and have really wanted for a while. We wanted to see some snow, and were even worried that we might get snowed in. However, we did not see ONE flake, which I was depressed about, although we got back on time to see our little one, who we missed desperately...sort of.

Here are some pictures to sum it up...

So, the week and a half for Brant has been fun. He saw his first snow, and maybe last for a while. He got to spend a weekend with MiMi and PawPaw eating popcorn and marshmallows, playing with his friend Haydo, and being rocked to sleep. Now he is back in the routine...getting up early, being at school all day LEARNING (Blah), and getting his second haircut today! Here are some pictures from his week or so...

::Brant's Photoshoot::

2008-01-11T21:03:00.000-05:00

This afternoon Brant and I played outside and I took the opportunity to take some more pictures of him (like I need more). One day is going to ask me why I took so many pictures of him.

::Check Me Out::

2008-01-10T20:33:00.000-05:00

This Christmas I got two pairs of footwear: An AWESOME pair of Nike sneaks, just like Pat Pat's...and a pair of rain boots. Since it was muddy outside on the playground today my teacher remembered to put the boots on so I wouldn't mess up the Nikes. Check me out!

::Yay It Worked::

2008-01-09T21:15:00.000-05:00

Right after I was about to give up it finally worked! Here's saying HEY to Israel!

::Sorry So Delayed!::

2008-01-09T20:27:00.000-05:00

To those of you who are mad at me for not posting in a while (Nanny), I apologize sincerely. It is no one's fault but my own, and I left my camera battery down in Macon and had to get it mailed to me (thanks again Ms. Debra). And I know that no one wants to READ my blog; they just want to LOOK at my blog. My words are boring without pictures of Brant, I know!

Anyways - this week has been great. Brant is really adjusting to our new schedule...we are now at school from 6:30am - 3:00pm instead of 9:30am - 6:30pm. I think we are both absolutely loving the change. Especially with this new weather, he gets to come home and play outside with Mommy...and Mommy gets to come home and actually get things done before she crashes on her pillow. I cook more, I hope I clean more, and I know I get to see Brant more. I really think this is a wonderful, positive change for the new year!

Mom and Lauren are in Israel so Brant wanted to give them a little shout out. Let's hope they can get it soon. I uploaded it but now it is not working. Go figure! Hopefully I can get it figured out tonight. My Dad is all by his lonesome this week, so if you feel like it, check in on him!

Sidenote...Brandon and I have our ONE YEAR anniversary on Sunday...I really can't believe it! We are going to have a little get away the following weekend which we are really looking forward to. I know my mom is looking forward to it after 10 days away from him!

Keep them in your prayers and I hope everyone is enjoying life after the holidays! It's back to the grind as they say!

Here are some pics from this week...he LOVES his Zebra tent from MiMi and PawPaw.

::Macon in Pictures::

2007-12-30T21:33:00.001-05:00

Will write more when I have time, but here are some pictures from Macon this weekend. He got his first haircut. I will put before and afters below! Love you all!

BEFORE

AFTER