The Van Ordens

Amelia Island Part 1

2011-08-01T12:28:00.003-04:00

Last day of school

2011-07-27T18:17:00.014-04:00

The first day of school is almost here so I decided I should post the last day of school! Ha! Both kids had a great year! Carter of course missed his preschool graduation because of a baseball championship game!

Carter with Ms. Vanessa and Ms. Ellen Carter with his best bud Joshua Receiving his diploma from Ms. Glenda
Campbell and her teachers Ms. Lynne and Ms. Kim Campbell with her best bud Timothy - Joshua's brother
Yummy ice cream party
Campbell's last day of music with her friend Emma Campbell with her teach Ms. Anna and Emma

2nd place

2011-07-25T22:37:00.010-04:00

At the end of May, Carter's baseball team played for the championship. It just so happened to be the same day as preschool graduation! I let Carter decide what he wanted to do and of course he picked baseball! If they won the first game, they would play a double header for the winner! We won the first, but lost the second game. The boys did a great job and Carter's team came in second place. They had a trophy presentation after the second game. Such a fun season and I can't wait to see how Carter does next spring! Carter loved every minute; even spinning in circles in the outfield, seeing how far he could throw his glove, and kicking dirt in the infield!

Sliding in to home The girls had fun playing too!The Twins!

Carter and Coach Mike

Carter and Brandon! Me and Carter

Baseball

2011-07-17T17:39:00.009-04:00

Carter really enjoyed baseball this year. He was the youngest on the team but I think he learned a lot! Their team did so well they made it the championship game! More pictures to come!

Carter got the game ball this game!

Finally Easter

2011-07-14T16:43:00.016-04:00

Easter was so late this year, I guess it is fitting that my pictures are so late too! Ha! We had a nice Easter and MiMi and PopPop were here to share int he joyus day as well!

Quick nap after Easter service! Campbell's bows don't last too long and she was playing with her jewelry! At least she isn't screaming and crying!

Campbell and MiMi

Carter and PopPop

Good one minute, not so good the next!

Carter and MiMi

More pre-Easter fun

2011-06-29T11:57:00.009-04:00

The Easter Bunny! Egg hunt! A camel at Easter? Fun with the neighbors Eli and Lennon! Campbell isn't real good at saying her "n" sounds so she calls him "Lemon!"

Time to update

2011-06-28T12:12:00.010-04:00

Things have literally been crazy the past 2 months. Lots of good and some bad make for cazy weeks! I am pretty much just going to go backwards until I get caught up on all the pictures. Carter is spending the week at Mimi and PopPop's house so maybe I can do some catching up!

Let's go way back to Easter! The kids had Easter parties at school and Campbell had a little spring musical. She loves music so she did really well.

More birthday

2011-05-05T16:13:00.013-04:00

Every year for Carter's birthday we pick a night and go to Chuck E Cheese. He had so much fun as usual! Lost of updating to do! It has been a busy month with Easter, school ending, and baseball!

Carter turns 5

2011-04-19T12:07:00.001-04:00

Last weekend we celebrated Carter's 5th birthday. He is in to Star Wars this year and wanted a Star Wars party. So a Star Wars party we had! Complete with light up figurines! Carter had all his friends over and had a wonderful time playing outside in the warm weather. Wow, 5 years! Where does the time go!

Opening Day

2011-03-21T12:08:00.005-04:00

Baseball has begun! Last weekend was opening day of baseball. Carter is in a different league this year and it is REAL baseball! Carter is the youngest on his team but I hope he is learning a lot. He at least has fun! Carter is usually the one in the outfield spinning in circles and seeing how far he can throw his glove! Ha! He has a lot to learn! He is getting better with each game and practice and I guess that's all I can ask for!

Practice before the game Impossible to get them both to look at the camera; or the same thing for that matter!

Winter Break

2011-03-10T11:55:00.004-05:00

About 2 weeks ago was Winter Break! The weather was beautiful and it felt much like Spring Break. The kids played outside alot with friends and dressed up in their Halloween costumes eating cookie cake! I would say they had a good week! I haven't been too good with pictures lately so I hope to get better. Carter's opening day in baseball is on Saturday so we should have more then. Maybe I'll break out the flip cam and get some video footage!

Snow

2011-02-10T15:59:00.009-05:00

Snow, snow, and more snow! I can't remember having so many snow storms in the south in one season! Our first snow was a week before Christmas, with maybe an inch. The second snow was on Christmas! We loved having a white Christmas! The kids really enjoyed it! The third snow was a big one! We had snow for a week, everything was shut down and we were basically stuck inside for a week. The kids played out in it for a few days but by the end of the week the snow was still here and we were done! Brandon worked from home all week too so saying we had "cabin fever" was an understatement! We had yummy snow cream most of the week though! I think we might need a snow shovel, but once we get one it probably won't snow for years! We just experienced our 4th snow but it was only about half an inch and didn't disrupt anything except get the kids all excited! After the 2 big storms I decided Campbell needed proper snow gloves; now that we have them and she probably won't get to wear them! I wouldn't mind 1 more snow day before spring arrives.

Our white Christmas!

1 of many snow angels

Big snow

Playing with the neighbors.

Bowls of snow ready for snow cream!

Happy 3rd Campbell

2011-01-21T16:33:00.011-05:00

On January 2nd, we celebrated Campbell's 3rd birthday at our house! I can't believe she is already 3. Campbell had fun playing with her friends and enjoying yummy cake.

Cupcakes and ice cream cone cake pops!

Going out for Mexican is a fun tradition!

Christmas Part 2

2011-01-15T16:49:00.008-05:00

Carter loves opening gifts. In fact he wanted to open all the gifts; not just his! As Carter opened each one of his gifts he did so with much enthusiasm. He said things like, "Oh my word," "what in the world?" "This is exactly what I wanted!" It was cute!

Campbell gets a Holiday Barbie every year from Brandon. Yes, she has to keep it in the box!

Carter gets baseball cards every year for Christmas! And yes, those stay in the box too!

Mimi and Pop Pop

We love Mimi!

Christmas Day Part 1

2011-01-06T16:10:00.005-05:00

We had a wonderful Christmas. The day was filled with magic and wonder and SNOW! The kids loved it! The only white Christmas we have ever experienced is in NY, so snow in Georgia was a treat! We played in the snow and made snow cream! Such a fun day! Santa got the kids a HUGE gift this year which they have enjoyed playing on when the weather hasn't been too chilly.

Stockings outside their rooms waiting for them.
Opening stockings

Santa gifts inside! Carter was so excited to get a Pillow Pet! He would recite the commercial to me every time he saw them in the stores!

Campbell spots the swing set!

Fort Van Orden! Carter said that he head Santa with his hammer and nails at night putting it together. Little does Carter know, Santa's elves installed in on the 23rd and we had to keep the kids from seeing it! I stacked presents in the windows so the kids couldn't see out and we kept Carter out of the house both days. Thankfully all the hard work paid off! Carter's exact words were, "What . . . in . . . the . . . world!" Campbell said, "A swing set for me? Yayyyyyy!" We let them go out and play on it in their pjs and coats before the snow really started to come down. It was sleeting but the kids had fun! I can see many memories being made in the back yard. I just hope it's memories and not broken bones :o)

Pure joy!

Christmas Eve

2011-01-05T17:09:00.003-05:00

Carter was a shepherd in the Christmas Eve program at church. He is dressed in blue on the far left.

Christmas Eve after church

Opening Mim's Christmas Eve present . . .
a recording of her reading this book.

O Christmas Trees

2011-01-04T17:21:00.005-05:00

Boy do I have a bunch of catching up to do. It's going to take me a few days to get all on here. We will start with our trees. I had fun decorating the new house this year for Christmas. The kids had fun decorating their trees too.

Family Room tree

Tree topper

Carter's red tree

Campbell's pink tree

Christmas card 2010

2010-12-18T16:00:00.005-05:00

I really like how our Christmas card turned out this year! Thanks Cassie for taking such wonderful pictures! I scanned the card so the quality you see below isn't the best.

Front of card

Inside of card

Santa and School Parties

2010-12-10T16:38:00.009-05:00

What a busy week we have had! We started the week out with Brandon leaving for Singapore last Friday so he has missed all the excitement! Last Saturday we went to 2 birthday parties, a stop to see Santa, and an SEC Championship game to watch! What a great day! Auburn won, woooooohooooo! War Eagle! We'll be going to the National Championship game in Arizona. We aren't actually going, but the Auburn Tigers are! Way to go Auburn! Our neighborhood had Santa stop in for a visit. The kids had fun making crafts and telling Santa what they wanted. Carter asked Campbell to ask Santa to get him a bike so that he could ask Santa for a motorcyle! I guess he is trying to work the system! So Carter did request a motorcyle, which no, he will not nor ever get and he asked for a swing set, but more specifically, a swing set with no spider webs - ha! I don't think Campbell asked for anything but at least she did not scream and cry so I consider than an accomplishment! On Tuesday the kids woke up sick, Carter had pink eye and Campbell had a terrible cough which after waking from her nap with a 103 temp, rushed her to the Dr. before they closed, we found out she had an ear infection. Thursday brought Carter's Christmas Musical at school and both kids had parites. Thankfully their classrooms are across the hall from each other so it wasn't too much trouble bouncing between the 2. Whew, I am tired and ready for Brandon to get home! All in all, it was a pretty good week starting off the Christmas season.

Before we went to see Santa we had a little practice photo shoot! Seemed to work!

Talking to Santa.

Carter and Eli - neighbor across the street. Too bad they are Georgia fans ;o)

Carter and his teacher, Ms. Vanessa

Carter and Ms. Ellen

Campbell and the only other girl in her class, Kimberly.

Campbell and her teacher, Ms. Lynne

Campbell and Ms. Kim

In all things give thanks!

2010-12-03T22:53:00.006-05:00

We spent Thankgiving week in Birmingham and had a great time visiting friends and family. We met friends at the park one day, went to another friends house to play one day, had Thanksgiving followed by shopping and an awesome football game! Wow, is it hard to get 4 kids 4 and under to cooperate for pictures!

Campbell, cousin Madi, and Carter New cousin Riley Grace - she did great for pictures :o)
If only they were looking at the camera

On Friday we watched the Alabama/Auburn game. The first half was great by Alabama but the second half was amazing by Auburn. They went in to the half losing at 24-0 and came out to win at 28-27! What an emotional game! Way to go Auburn! War Eagle!

War Eagle!!!

Playroom

2010-11-19T19:42:00.004-05:00

I have finally posted before and after pictures of the kids playroom. The first 2 pictures are before the crown molding and window treatments. I love how the crown molding looks and I used IKEA fabric to make the window treatments.

Before
After

Christmas cards are calling

2010-11-09T14:46:00.007-05:00

It is that time of year again! I can't believe I am already seeing Santa in the malls! I am trying to get a lot done early this year. I want to enjoy the season with my children instead of at the mall. I love this time of year and also love choosing our family Christmas card! It is so much fun to pick my favorite picture and then look through all the many wonderful card designs to find the perfect one for our family. There is something so special about sending and receiving Christmas cards. Shutterfly has a promotion going on for bloggers to earn 50 free Christmas cards just for blogging about their holiday selection. Shutterfly has more than just cards, another favorite of mine is making a calendar for the grandparents.

I love this card with the black background! The snowflakes and the red banner really pop! My kids picture would look great on this! I already have their picture chosen and ready to go!

I also really like this card. I can put a picture of the kids together along with an individual picture of each of them, as well as our monogram. I heart monograms!!!Have you started your holiday shopping?

Halloween week

2010-11-02T11:04:00.020-04:00

We had a busy Halloween week last week. I think it is safe to say that we are Halloweened out. We started the week off with dress rehearsal of the costumes. Spiderman enjoyed jumping in to all kinds of poses with Princess Campbell trying to do the same thing. Wednesday was church, Friday was playgroup and finally Halloween on Sunday! As the week progressed the Princess decided that certain accessories were not necessary! Carter, I mean Spiderman, did actually try to climb the walls and proclaim that his costume was not working! Very funny but that lead to a discussion that we are just playing and we can't actually climb walls or jump off of buildings without getting really hurt! It was a fun week but I am glad it is over. Now to eating all the candy!

Dress Rehearsal

Church Trunk-or-Treating, but it rained so they were inside.
Playgroup party

Happy Halloween

No ring or necklace . . .

Our street block party!

Friends from across the street.

A princess with crazy hair from rolling in the grass and no tiara!

A fun week by all!

More pumpkins

2010-10-30T13:05:00.008-04:00

Last weekend our friends, Katie and Josh along with their 2 kids Hampton and Camden came for a visit. We took the kids to a local pumpkin patch and they had fun getting their faces painted and checking out the pumpkins. Saturday night we watched Auburn play LSU - our annual game to watch together! We all had a great time and enjoyed their visit! Thanks Crago's for spending the weekend with us!

Attempt at a group picture

Carter and Hampton
Picking cotton

1 pumpkin . . .

2 pumpkins . . .

Many pumpkins!

Watching the Auburn game!

Carter - 4, Hampton - 3, Campbell - 2, and Camden - 18 months

Pumpkins and apples oh my!

2010-10-17T15:07:00.012-04:00

A couple of weeks ago we made our traditional trip out to Burt's Pumpkin Farm and the apple orchard. It was a beautiful day and the crowds were low, it was still September so the pumpkins were not in high demand yet. The kids always enjoy playing around the HUGE pumpkins. After we left the pumpkin farm we headed about 10 miles down to the apple orchard. We enjoy picking fresh apples. There is nothing better than an apple picked right off the tree. I have made lots of apple bread and an apple caramel cake! Yum!

Near impossible to get a cooperating picture!

I wonder what they were discussing!

Try to push the HUGE pumpkin.

Campbell liked the white ones.

And the orange ones too.

A tractor ride to the apple orchard with Mimi and Pop Pop.

Campbell had a bag and Carter had a bag.

Picking an apple.

This is "time out" in the orchard!

Our Kitchen

2010-10-10T09:38:00.004-04:00

I am participating in Show Us Your Life Friday over at Kelly's Korner. Yes, it is Sunday - better late than never! On Friday she did kitchens - the heart of every home! We spend so much time in our kitchen! It is nice that it is open to our family room and the kids playroom. As soon as we walked in this house and saw the kitchen, we fell in love! I LOVE our HUGE island and the kids eat breakfast and lunch there.

Our Kitchen

Breakfast nook

From the kitchen looking in to the family room.
Family room looking in to the kitchen.

Campbell's 1st hair cut

2010-09-28T12:50:00.006-04:00

After almost 3 years, Campbell got her 1st hair cut! She didn't need a hair cut but we are hoping by taking the baby curls off (sniff, sniff), it will tame her hair a little. Campbell's hair literally sticks straight up when she has been sleeping on it. She got about an inch cut off! She did GREAT! I was expecting all out screaming and crying since Campbell is very dramatic but she surprised us all! She even bragged to Carter that she was going to get her hair cut and he wasn't. I don't blame her, what girl doesn't like to be pampered! Here's to another almost 3 years for her hair to grow until she gets another cut :o)

Before

Before Before She sat perfectly still! Loved watching in the mirror! Success!

Soccer pictures

2010-09-22T22:47:00.000-04:00

Soccer

2010-09-07T16:28:00.003-04:00

Carter is playing soccer for the first time this fall. He really has fun and his best friend Joshua is on the team too. Carter told us after the first game that we needed to stop cheering because he could not concentrate! Ha! So, the second game, we didn't cheer. He did a little better. Carter's team is called 'The Silver Hawks' - they named themselves. Here's too a fun soccer season!

August beach trip

2010-08-31T11:16:00.004-04:00

The first part of August we went to Myrtle Beach with Brandon's family. We made the most of our last beach trip for the year. The kids loved it! We spent a lot of time at the beach and pool. Carter enjoyed swimming without floaties. Campbell enjoyed the ocean more this time. We all enjoyed the sun and had a great time. We had evenings with yummy food. On the last night we played miniature golf and Carter LOVED it. All the way home the next day he asked if he could play miniature golf at home! We all had a wonderful end of summer beach trip! Thanks Mim!

Coloring with Daddy

Fun with Uncle Grant

The family

Mim and Campbell

Carter and Uncle Gary

We love Daddy!

The Van Orden's

A week of fun!

Campbell's 1st day of school

2010-08-18T15:55:00.006-04:00

Loves her backpack!

Carter is thrilled for his 2nd day!

Proof of a good day at school!

Campbell's 1st day of school was on Tuesday. She whimpered a little as she was getting out of the car but I think Carter made her feel better and she walked off just fine. Her teacher said she had a great day. She must have played hard because she was sound asleep by time we got home. So far, it has been a good busy week!

Carter's 1st day

2010-08-16T16:06:00.003-04:00

Today was Carter's 1st day of 4 year preschool. He was very excited to get back to school. He will be going 4 days a week this year. Campbell's 1st day is tomorrow. She will go 2 days a week. I am looking forward to 8 hours a week to myself! Carter said he had a good first day and was excited that some of his friends from his class last year are in his class again. We are looking forward to a good year! I hope Campbell's 1st day goes well tomorrow. For some reason, I think Campbell might be a trouble maker!

Ahhhhh Campbell!

2010-08-06T16:06:00.003-04:00

So this time Campbell decided to get the White Out; which I didn't even know we had; and paint the leather desk chair! I was wrapping a present for a birthday party and silly me did so in a different room from Campbell. Thankfully Goo Gone is my friend and took it all off! Now, if only I could get the pen marks off I would be doing good.

What can happen!

2010-07-26T15:36:00.002-04:00

This is what happens when I leave a mischievous 2.5 year old unsupervised for a few minutes to do her laundry! Thanks to this little episode she now has stained clothes and I have a stained shower floor! Just today, while I was tending to her sick brother, she decided to get the baby powder out of her top drawer and cover herself in powder! Just remember sweet Campbell, you will probably have a little girl one day just like youself! Payback is coming!

Bag Giveaway

2010-07-14T10:04:00.005-04:00

Check out this awesome blog for a chance to win a super cute Skip Hop DUO bag. We all need one of these!

Summer Fun

2010-07-13T16:33:00.008-04:00

We have been having a lot of fun this summer by staying cool in many pools! The kids love to play in the pool and Carter is now swimming without floaties. He still wears them a lot, but we always take time to have some "floatie free" swimming. He did great in his swim lessons this session and Campbell has even picked up on it too. She likes to flip backwards and swim! I love my 2 little fish!

Happy 4th!

2010-07-13T16:28:00.003-04:00

We had a very low key 4th of July. The weather was a tad cooler so we took the kids to the park. We grilled out and enjoyed family time.

Happy Birthday Madi

2010-07-02T15:07:00.004-04:00

Birthday Girl

Bubbles for a hot day.

Playing outside.

Last weekend we went to Tuscaloosa to celebrate my niece's 2nd birthday! It was HOT but so much fun. The kids enjoyed playing outside and playing with their cousin Madi. The Minnie Mouse cake was yummy! Thanks for a great weekend guys. Happy 2 years Madison!

Silence for Cohen

2010-07-01T08:13:00.010-04:00

What: Moment of Silence for Cohen

When: Thursday July 1st from midnight to 11:59 pm.

How: Bloggers participating will post the Cohen banner or simply post Cohen’s name in large letters on their blog.

Why: July 1st Megan and Brent will be holding Cohen’s memorial service. The moment of silence is an opportunity for Megan’s blog community to stand behind her and support her on this difficult day. Linking up will give Megan a chance to see the support at a glance.

Participating bloggers can Link Up on July 1st at Send Love To Cohen. Will you join me and help spread the word?

Orange Beach

2010-05-25T16:48:00.000-04:00

Last day of school/last day of music

2010-05-20T22:40:00.005-04:00

Last Thursday was Carter's last day of school! They had an ice cream party and were all very excited! I can't believe it is the start of summer break! We are looking forward to a fun summer being in our new house!

Carter with Ms. Dyanna -

Carter said he had something in his eye so these are funny pictures.
Carter with Ms. Carol

Last Tuesday was Campbell's last day of music! She loves music! Every time we pull in to the parking lot she gets so excited about her music days! Here is an attempt at a group picture - not an easy task!

Campbell's teacher Ms. Anna

Campbell and Ms. Anna

4 year stats

2010-05-03T15:35:00.003-04:00

Carter had his 4 year old well visit today. He did great other than the shots - he got 4 and screamed like I have never heard before. He was screaming before he even saw the shots! Thankfully he is done with well shots until he is 11! I didn't have the guts to tell him he will be getting a flu shot every year! He is one healthy little boy. His height was 3'7" putting him in the 95th% and his weight was 39lbs. putting him in the 70th%. He is going to outgrow me before too long.

What we've been up to

2010-04-29T15:45:00.004-04:00

What a busy month! When the weather has cooperated, Carter has gotten to play baseball! His last game, he even got the game ball to which he slept with for a week!
Carter has also been taking swim lessons. He was not sure about them but by the looks of his face below, he really started enjoying them. Or maybe it was the fact that he became pals with the only other little boy in there named Conrad. I hope we can spend lots of time at the pool this summer relaxing and having fun.

And if baseball and swim lessons haven't been enough we sold our house and bought this house! Actually our house is under contract and this new house we put a contract on! All before the April 30th deadline! Whew! We close at the end of May and we are so excited to start the next adventure of our lives in a much bigger house. This neighborhood has 5 community pools and a golf course so I don't think we will be too bored this summer. This house is only 1.5 years old and needs lots of personal touches so I can't wait to get started. The cool thing about this house, they both went to Auburn and the girl that lives there was an AOPi too! I don't think I could have asked for a more clear sign! After we get settled we plan on having a party to celebrate our new house and the end of a long house selling journey!

Brandon and I celebrated our 7 year anniversary, Brandon had a birthday and his grandad celebrated his 90th birthday! April is busy for us. We welcome May! Off to start packing!

Carter is 4

2010-04-13T14:21:00.006-04:00

On Saturday Carter turned 4! We had his birthday at our neighborhood park. The weather was perfect and everyone seemed to have a really good time. Carter enjoyed having all his friends over to play. Wow, 4 years! How the time flies! What a joy it is for me to be his mommy - most days :o)

Party favors
Ella walking

Joshua on the slide

All the kids

Carter, Jacob, Nathan, and Joshua

Ella, Madi, Sarah Grace, and Campbell

Madi blowing bubbles

Campbell, Carter, and Madi

Campbell

Carter and his good friend Joshua

The girls loved the bubbles

The boys loved playing ball

La Parrilla for dinner!

Not too happy about the hat

Easter

2010-04-05T15:27:00.004-04:00

This was as good as I could get for an Easter picture. When 1 would cooperate, the other wouldn't. At least I have a picture! We had a nice Easter. After church we went out for brunch instead of cooking at home! I think I found my new Easter tradition. It was great not having to rush around to get to church, pictures, cook and clean. The weather was beautiful! The kids have been on a sugar high since our neighborhood egg hunt on Saturday! It is spring break this week and Carter's 4th birthday on Saturday so it is going to be busy! Finally the weather is nice but it sure is heating up eary!

Dentist day

2010-03-26T16:13:00.005-04:00

The kids had their dentist appointments this week. Campbell did so well! Carter on the other hand was not so sure this time! Sometimes I feel like I get 2 steps ahead with 1 kids and then fall 2 steps behind with the other!

1st "game"

2010-03-17T21:12:00.007-04:00

All chasing the ball!

Snack and pep talk after the game.

Ricky got the game ball.

Carter had his first baseball game last night. Actually it should have been the second game but opening day was rained out! Most of our practices were rained or snowed out too! So last night in about 40 something temps was Carter first "game." A game for this league isn't much of a game . . . everyone bats, everyone runs the bases, no one gets out, and they don't keep score! Yesterday the sun was in their eyes at bat so they batted from 2nd base! What a way to confuse them! It is quite humorous watching them. No one stays in their "position" so when the ball gets hit all 7 of them run and tackle each other for the ball! This is t-ball but they get 6 pitches from the coach first and then if they can't hit those they get the tee. Carter was able to hit off the pitches. He can not hit off a tee. All he does is hit the tee when he tries! It should be a fun season or at least a funny one!

The season of baseball

2010-03-01T16:49:00.007-05:00

Carter trying on his uniform and being oh so silly! To this he said, "Look Mommy, I am a table!"

Carter's first year of baseball has started. Really it is t-ball but they don't always use a tee. They throw them 6 pitches and if they don't hit it, they bring out the tee. There are 7 boys on Carter's team, everyone hits and runs the bases, no one gets out, and they don't keep score. The next league up, all the competitiveness starts. Carter is really enjoying it. He can hit the ball but fielding is another story. We are also practicing running the bases. On Saturday they had a scrimmage and one time when Carter was on 3rd and was to run home, he ran across the field to 1st! We get many laughs at our children's expense! His uniform is HUGE; really I think 2 or 3 of Carter could fit in it and it is the smallest size they make! It is cute though! It has been so cold I haven't taken any pictures yet. Soon though there will be many pictures. Opening day is in 2 weeks!

Ordinary Day

2010-02-23T22:22:00.003-05:00

I really like this! Cherish the ordinary days! How simple to do and yet life is so busy we often forget about the ordinary! When I first started watching this and seeing all the pictures, I thought it was going to have a tragically sad ending - it doesn't, by the way. Just a simple reminder to cherish the time we have because it goes so fast and we aren't promised tomorrow! Be sure to pause the music at the bottom of my blog.

A fun snow day

2010-02-13T15:31:00.005-05:00

Carter is ready to go out!
Campbell
Campbell just wanted to eat it!

What fun a snow day is! We watched it snow all afternoon yesterday and after the kids naps they got to play in it! Carter had the most fun throwing snow balls! And Campbell kept saying, "Ssssssnnnnnnooooowwww!" She loved it! We made delicious snow cream last night. This morning we played in the park and made a snowman there then came home and made another snowman. We have to make the most of these big snows because we may not see this much snow again for 5 more years! The snow is slowly melting and all will be back to normal soon. What fun adventures the snow can be!

I heart cookies!

2010-02-10T22:02:00.003-05:00

I guess it is fair to say that I have been in a cookie mood lately! I made these cookies for Carter's Valentine's exchange for school tomorrow. We had a taste test with some leftovers and they were yummy!

First cookies

2010-02-08T14:04:00.002-05:00

I have been wanting to make sugar cookies for a while now and finally had a reason to do them. I don't guess I really needed a reason but I didn't feel so bad eating them when I did have a reason to make them! Anyway, I made these football sugar cookies for a Super Bowl party. The big ones were for the adults and the little ones for the kids. They were a big hit! I have to say, for my first time ever making sugar cookies from scratch and the first time ever use a rolling pin; I think they turned out well! I am making heart sugar cookies for Carter's preschool class this week! Actually I already made them but accidentally left the uncooked ones sitting out all night; the heartbreak when I realized it and had to throw them away! Guess it was good practice!

Blog friend's Blogiversary

2010-02-01T10:25:00.002-05:00

One of my blog friend's is celebrating her 1 year blog anniversary this week with GREAT giveaways! Go check it out and maybe you will win!

2 year stats

2010-01-25T15:23:00.003-05:00

Last week Campbell had her 2 year appointment. She is slowly gaining weight but staying with her skinny and tall model stats! She was 24lbs. which was the 20th% and 35 inches which was the 80th%, her head is just perfect at 18.5 inches for the 50th%. Her hair is getting thicker but is still just as curly! She has a large vocabulary and is already speaking in sentences. She loves to sing and dance and really enjoys listening to music. I have to be careful with what kids CDs we listen to in the car because if the kids like them that is ALL they want to listen to - over and over and over again!

Filling Bailey's bowl and probably sneaking a snack too!

A snowy day

2010-01-20T16:02:00.003-05:00

About 2 weeks ago we had a snow day, or really a snow/ice weekend! Brandon was out of town for the weekend hunting so me and the kids decided to stay home and stay in. I mean, after all, Carter did have pneumonia with no symptoms! And yes, I am well aware that Carter should not have been outside with pneumonia in 10 degree weather but after the 100th time of him asking, I decided to bundle him up and let him play for 5 minutes outside. Worked like a charm! I did have to drag him in but he never asked again to go back out! He got his wish, I got pictures and we were all happy!

I will throw this snowball at you since you are standing inside taking pictures Mom!

Campbell turns 2

2010-01-12T16:21:00.002-05:00

On January 2nd, little Miss Campbell turned 2! My how 2 years have flown by. Seems like just yesterday we were introducing her to Carter and now they are fast learning their roles as siblings! To say that Campbell keeps us on our toes is an understatement. Campbell does everything that Carter did not, including things like eating dog food and taking diapers off at nap time! We love you Campbell and we look forward to all the many adventures that are in store for you . . . and us! We had a nice family day celebrating Campbell's 2 years. My parents, along with my brother's family came over for the day while also Brandon's mom was down here visiting for the week. Campbell is a pro at opening gifts but I think the highlight for her was eating cake! She kept saying, "cake" every time we would mention it or she saw it. What will 2010 hold from our little drama queen - we shall see!

Christmas 2009

2010-01-07T12:08:00.000-05:00

Christmas recap

2010-01-05T15:40:00.002-05:00

I am so behind on getting Christmas pictures on the blog. The last 2 weeks of December were a long one. Carter was sick for 2 days, followed by Campbell having a touch of sickness, followed by Brandon having a week of sickness and Christmas was in between. Thank you Lord for sparing me and giving me the energy to clean up after everyone! Then came New Year's, Campbell's 2nd birthday, and the grand finale of Carter turning blue on a Sunday morning and after visiting a doctor's office then a hospital for x-rays it was confirmed he has pneumonia! Odd thing is, the only symptom he had was turning blue. He was acting normal, no fever, no cough, no wheezing, no sniffle, no pain, no choking, absolutely nothing! Apparently we caught his double pneumonia very early and fortunately we didn't have to make a mad dash to the ER in the middle of the night. But wow, how am I ever going to know when the child is sick!

Trying to get a picture of the kids on Christmas Eve . . . impossible!

But by themselves is a little easier!

Carter - Christmas Eve 2009
Campbell - Christmas Eve 2009

Our teachers

2009-12-20T01:46:00.005-05:00

Last Tuesday was the kids last day of school before the Christmas break. It was Campbell's last day of Kindermusik; she really enjoys it. It was also Carter's last day of Playball. He learned skills for various sports, such as tennis, hockey, basketball, baseball and soccer. Carter is a "natural," or so his coach says! Wonder where he gets it from ;o)

The places Elfie goes!

2009-12-18T14:30:00.001-05:00

Santa

2009-12-09T15:43:00.003-05:00

Well this was the 5th attempt to get a somewhat descent picture and it is descent! We tried the first time to see the Santa at Bass Pro and Campbell did not want to cooperate. This one she did a little better but the first 2 pictures were bad and finally on the 3rd picture, it's a keeper for next the 50 years to be displayed! Campbell has on an adorable outfit but Santa is covering up the top! But at least we have a picture!

It's Christmas Time

2009-12-04T22:26:00.003-05:00

Carter and Campbell did really well for these Christmas pictures! Thankfully there wasn't much of a wait and it was pouring down rain out so they weren't busy. Or maybe it was because Santa was watching and they knew their wanted presents were pending! Whatever it was, I am glad it went well. I love Christmas - the sights, the sounds and the smells! I really wish my house could stay decorated for more than a few weeks; actually I guess it could all the stores start decorating early! Hmmm, maybe next year! I am already making my plans for day after Christmas shopping to get a BIG tree and more decorations, I just know (hope) we will be in a new house next year! Carter has a red tree in his room this year and Campbell has a pink one! We have had fun decorating! I love making new memories!

Turkey Day

2009-12-01T21:23:00.003-05:00

I have no pictures to show for our Thanksgiving; I forgot my camera so I am trying to wait patiently for my brother-in-law to send them to me! We made the 13 hour trek up to Philadelphia to spend Thanksgiving with Brandon's family. His mom and brother drove over from New York. Brandon's uncle and grandfather live in Philly. We had a great time. The drive up was good but the kids were a little wired the whole time while being out of their routine. I know Uncle Gary was glad to get his peaceful house back! On Friday we went shopping without the kids which is always a treat! Saturday was the trek back to Atlanta and it was rough. An hour from leaving Carter got car sick and we were just all tired so we had to make lots of stops. It was nice to spend time with Brandon's family since we don't seem them much. Now we are gearing up for Christmas! Oh how I love this time of year! I just wish it were longer than a month!

All natural snack

2009-11-18T23:26:00.003-05:00

Campbell: "Maybe Mom won't catch me this time with the dog food!"

Me: "Campbell, spit out that food!"

Campbell: "Okay Mom!"
Me:"Campbell take that food back to the kitchen!"
Campbell: "So sad, but okay!"
Campbell: "You want me to put this down nicely, right?"
Campbell: "Don't think so, I'll just drop it, but I will be sure to help pick it up for my next snack!"

I promise I feed Campbell! For some reason, if I forget to pick up Bailey's dog food, the second I turn my back she has her hands in it! I can not figure out why she likes to eat it. While I think it is disgusting at least it's "all natural" so hopefully it is not doing her much harm! Carter never once touched dog food! Although, Campbell does everything that Carter never did! She is keeping us on our toes!

Halloween

2009-11-06T15:41:00.003-05:00

Last weekend we were in Birmingham to celebrate Halloween and Mimi's birthday along with my brother, his wife and Madi. The kids had fun trick or treating and my mom enjoyed showing off the kids. After the neighborhood deal we went to the church carnival for more fun. Carter couldn't seem to get enough candy! All Campbell wanted to do was hold hers and eat every single lollipop she got!

Here is Carter the Auburn football player.

Campbell the Auburn cheerleader . . . with a lollipop!

3's a crowd . . . in the wagon

Madi

A carnival isn't complete without a merry-go-round!

Campbell loved her balloon hat that was a "bumble bee!"

If you ever see a pink bumble bee, let me know!

Pumpkin Patch and Apple Orchard

2009-11-02T17:08:00.007-05:00

Last weekend we planned a full adventure filled day with Mimi and PopPop! We started at the pumpkin patch with the BIGGEST pumpkins I have ever seen! The kids loved it; Carter especially enjoyed climbing on them! It was freezing out but fun was had by all!

Trying to pick up the pumpkin!

Looks like a nice resting spot!

After the pumpkin patch we headed just a little farther down the road for lunch followed by the apple orchard. We waited a little late in the year to go so there weren't as many apples to pick as last year but still fun! Campbell especially loved throwing the apples! I have been making lots of apple bread!

Campbell likes apples!

Sea World Part 2

2009-10-23T23:22:00.007-04:00

Family picture before leaving

Mim and the kids

Long day Carter's favorite, Shamu!

Carter and Brandon feed the dolphins.

Sea World Part 1

2009-10-14T15:02:00.002-04:00

Last week we enjoyed Sea World with Brandon's mom, uncle and brother! It was HOT, 94 temp with 105 heat index, I did think a few times I would melt! Everyone had a good time and Carter's favorite was Shamu, that's all he talked about!

Kids with Shamu

Campbell's favorite, Uncle Grant

Carter's explanation of touching the sting-ray, "It was mushy like pillows!" Pretty accurate, I would say!

Summer Portraits

2009-10-01T22:28:00.000-04:00

Water Park

2009-09-23T15:17:00.007-04:00

As many know the Atlanta area has been flooded! At our house in a matter of a week we got 20 inches of rain, with 1 day alone totaling 6 inches! Many roads are still flooded but school is suppose to start back tomorrow! Today we ventured out to a local park to find half of it under water! It is amazing what water can do!

Carter and Jacob checking out the water.

Poor misplaced little fish!

Care to picnic here?

We're still smiling though! Jacob, Carter and Campbell

Dentist and Elmo

2009-09-18T15:24:00.006-04:00

Campbell and Carter had dentist appointments this week. It was Campbell's 1st and she did great! Campbell knows how to throw really good fits so I was unsure as to how she would do! Both kids did great!

On Thursday night I took Carter to see Sesame Street Live with a friend and her son. Carter loved it and had so much fun. He was laughing out loud which was so fun to watch! Carter keeps asking me if we are going to go back to Elmo today! We munched on popcorn and had a great evening on our mommy/son date! Brandon and Campbell played at home!

$15.00

2009-09-07T15:59:00.004-04:00

I happened upon a garage sale the other day, I wasn't looking for anything really, just wasting time . . . the only thing impressive I found was this barely used bike trailer for . . . $20, but I got it for $15!!!!!!! I was really shocked and almost felt bad for paying them so little. I have wanted one of these for the longest time and I wasn't about to pay over $100 retail for this. The owner even put it on his bike to show me how it worked and he practically had to take it apart to get it in my car! It has a 3rd wheel and a handle bar if I want to use it as a double stroller too - we took it off for the bike. I was almost giddy driving home with it! I showed it to Carter first and he loved it, we hooked it up to my bike and he got in right away for me to take him for a spin. Campbell joined in the ride today and I must say, I need to work out! After pulling about 60 lbs. in this trailer I was done! It was fun though and hopefully will motivate me to get back to riding; at least once a week!

Carter's 1st day of school . . . last week

2009-08-31T16:01:00.003-04:00

Carter started back to school last week. He is in the 3s this year and there are are few friends in there from his class from last year. There are girls in there this year! Last year his class consisted of 10 and all being boys! Those poor teachers! Wednesday at dinner we had this conversation . . .
Me: "Carter are you ready for school tomorrow?"
Carter: "Yes, but I don't like the girls!"
Me: "Why don't you like them?"
Carter: "Because they play with baby dolls!"

More fun

2009-08-20T15:10:00.003-04:00

Carter and Jacob

Loves the scooter Loves the slide

Just couldn't stay awake, notice the pretzel still on her thumb!

Week of playing

2009-08-11T14:18:00.016-04:00

Last week we had many days of playing! It started on a Saturday at the park with Brandon's work. They had a family day at the park. It was hot but fun. Both kids enjoyed trying to hula hoop! Mimi teaches them how to hula hoop - she's a pro!

Then we met two neighbors at the pool for swimming. We have spent many mornings at the pool this summer! Carter has even started to swim a very small bit without the floaties!

Campbell loves to wear Carter's shoes!

Joshua and Timothy came over to play one morning too. They enjoyed playing outside and having a lemonade break! Carter and Joshua will be in the same class again this year at preschool.
Before they threw each other to the ground!
We ended the week by a visit with our cousins, Ethan and Emily.

Show us your life - Wedding reception and honeymoon

2009-08-07T08:48:00.013-04:00

This is the last of the wedding stuff over at Kelly's Korner. Today it is wedding receptions and honeymoons. Our reception was on the main floor of the house where we got married - The Donnelly House. Food was set up inside and outside on the patio was a big tent for dancing. It was so much fun but not near long enough. The cake was yummy, the food was delicious and the wine was overflowing! Such a delightful evening! We got married on April 19, 2003 and the weather was perfect for a spring evening wedding!
We honeymooned in Ocho Rios and Negril Jamaica. We spent a few nights in Ocho Rios and then took a small hooper plane to Negril. It was the best of both worlds! We had a wonderful time relaxing as husband and wife!

Cutting the cake First Dance
Dancing with my dad
My sweet grandparents
The Electric Slide
Dancing with my brother

About to leave

Jamaica

Shopping

Horseback riding

View from the hooper plane

SHOW US YOUR LIFE - Wedding Party and Flowers/Ceremony

2009-07-31T10:45:00.013-04:00

Kelly's Korner is hosting Show Us Your Life with wedding parties today! It is fun to play along!

Once again these are all scanned pictures so they don't show the best quality.

Our wedding party consisted of family and friends from childhood, college and 1 Delta friend :o)

My girls! I loved their dresses. They were 2 piece and so pretty! I love red!
First kiss
Our wedding cake, the top tier has the initial of our last name!
These are the girls flowers, I carried white miniature calla lilies.This is Brandon and I leaving the beautiful Donnelly house.
To link to the dress go here. We had such a spectacular day I would like to do it all over again!

McWane Center

2009-07-29T14:28:00.002-04:00

While in Birmingham we spent one morning at the McWane Center with Katie, Hampton, and Camden Crago. The kids had a lot of fun and were asleep before we could get out of the parking deck! It was a fun place, we can't wait to go back! Thank you Crago's for a fun outing!

Model stats in check

2009-07-27T16:30:00.004-04:00

Both kids had their wellness visits today. Carter his 3 year and Campbell her 18 month. Campbell still is a skinny Minnie but she is gaining and is staying on the charts so no one is worried. Her weight is 22 lbs. 4 oz. which is the 20th% but her length is 33.5 in. which is the 90th%. I would love for her to wear my wedding dress but she may be too tall for it when the time comes :o) Her head is 18 in. which is the 50th%. She got 3 shots today and wasn't too happy about it. But once I picked her up she was fine. Also, they checked Campbell's iron level to see if she might be anemic. Apparently children that put everything in their mouths have a chance of being anemic. Campbell's iron was fine though - obviously she just likes to eat dirt, dog food, etc.! Carter did well as usual. He is 36 lbs. which puts him in the 75th% and his height is almost off the charts at 3 ft. 4.75 in. which is the 95th%. This was the first time he got his blood pressure taken which was perfect. He did get one shot and didn't even whimper, he flinched but was more interested in seeing what kind of band-aid he got than anything! Carter loves band-aids! I think that's why when he gets hurt, he's not too concerned because he gets a band-aid! I continue to be thankful for healthy children!

Show us your life - Wedding Dress

2009-07-24T10:34:00.006-04:00

Today over at Kelly's Korner she is hosting Show Us Your Life by starting with wedding dresses! Oh how I loved my dress! It was a Maggie Sottero couture gown in diamond white. It was beautiful and so comfortable; especially for strapless! It was open in the back with a corset type strapping up the back. In the front it gathered to the side and was trimmed at the top, side and back with little beads that when caught in the right light it glistened! I loved my dress and my wedding day! It was simply glorious and here 6 years later I still remember it like it was yesterday! We had an evening wedding in the gardens of The Historic Donnelly House which is an antebellum home in Birmingham, Alabama. Everything about the day was beautiful! The below pictures don't do my dress justice. The pictures are scanned from my photo album - digital was just coming around so I don't have many of those.

Mimi and PopPop's house of fun

2009-07-23T11:28:00.010-04:00

Riding the lawnmower with PopPop

The kids love playing golf Mimi's shoes

Look at that model pose!

He could be a model too!

Rocking in my first rocking chair Not easy getting group pictures these days!

Gran-ma ma ma and Mimi with the kids.

A week at Mimi and PopPop's

2009-07-21T15:44:00.007-04:00

Brandon was on the other side of the world last week in Singapore so me and the kids spent the week at my parent's house in Birmingham. We stayed busy the whole week. We visited with friends and my mom and I did lots of shopping - what we do best! We all had a great time but we are glad to be back home in our normal routine and I know my parent's are welcoming the quite house again! I think we gave them a crash course in remembering what it's like to have little ones in the house again! At one point during the week, Carter got his arm stuck in a chair and Campbell got her head stuck in the banister! I guess way back when my parent's house was built oh 40+ years ago, they didn't have the Coke can rule of thumb spacing guidelines! Campbell wasn't amused but she didn't get hurt once we figured out where she put her head in! Then of course since we live in the Eastern time zone and were visiting in the Central time zone, my kids were up early! I think they only slept past 6:30am twice! We had a fun week but are glad to be all together again!

Homemade ice cream with Ava, Harper and Jackson at the Howse's.

Playing at Hampton and Camden's house: live action group shot!

From L-R Campbell 18 months, Carter 3, Hampton 2, and Camden 3 months!

Play date

2009-07-09T10:17:00.004-04:00

Carter likes the kick board

Campbell hangs out on the steps
Joshua

Carter, Timothy and Joshua

Nathan

Timothy

More 4th fun

2009-07-07T09:51:00.003-04:00

On July 4th we went to a former co-workers of Brandon's to celebrate. He had a pool so Carter liked watching all the teenagers doing tricks on the diving board! When they took a break, Carter gave it a try and loved it! He wasn't the least bit scared! He jumped off, swam to the side, climbed out, and started it all over again. So fun to watch him discover new things! For dinner we had a royal feast, the kids had hamburgers and hot dogs and the adults had lobster tail, crab legs, mussels, alligator (compliments of Brandon) and shrimp! Saying it was delicious was an understatement! Carter and Campbell were the youngest by about 13 years so the adults loved the watching them. It wasn't super easy around a pool. Carter also enjoyed the sprinkler in their yard. He squealed in delight each time the water hit him! The kids weren't able to make it to the fireworks so while driving home we saw lots of fireworks in the sky at various places. Thanks Joe for such a fun evening!

Discovered the diving board for the first time and loved it!

Discovered a big float for the first time and was totally content!
"I told you I don't like bows in my hair!"
Blowing bubbles while waiting for fireworks and Campbell chewing on something; as always!

Happy 4th

2009-07-07T09:46:00.004-04:00

Waving flags
Trying to get a good picture; seems impossible these days! At least Carter cooperates!

Being serious

Happy 18 months

2009-07-06T15:35:00.003-04:00

She went from this . . .

to this in a matter of seconds!

18 months has flown! Campbell is starting not to appreciate all my picture taking! Most of the time she runs from the camera.

Madi's birthday

2009-06-29T15:10:00.005-04:00

This weekend we went to Alabama to celebrate Madi's 1st birthday. Madi wasn't so sure about the cake at first but she got the hang of it; even if it was face first! As you can see in the pictures below, Carter had no problems! The child LOVES cake - really just the icing!! I wonder where he gets that from! It was a whirlwind weekend but fun. We also got a chance to see my friend Katie and her new baby Camden along with Josh and Hampton. Carter and Hampton loved trying to catch fireflies and rolling in the grass being tickled! As tiring as all that sounds, I thought for sure they would sleep in, oh no . . . 5:30 AL time rolls around and they are awake! Goodness the sun comes up too early there. Carter thinks when the sun is up, he should be too! 5:30 makes 6:30 in GA not seem so bad!

Birthday Girl

Sweet Campbell

Yum, blue icing!

Carter swings

Campbell swings

Pool Friday

2009-06-21T15:59:00.004-04:00

Loves jumping

Loves blowing bubbles

Most Fridays we spend time at the pool. Actually we spend at least 2 days during the week at the pool but the act of putting on sunscreen on 1 squirmy 17 month old gets tiring. Thankfully Carter cooperates with the sunscreen on most days! Carter is doing great at the pool this year. He is attached to the floaties but I don't blow them up all the way, so he has to swim. He kicks his legs and moves his arms but it still a little less confident without the floaties. He can do the kick board all by himself so there is progress. I am thinking maybe by the end of summer he will be able to swim without the floaties! Campbell on the other hand, just thinks she can swim! She sits at the steps and blows bubbles and wants to drink the water. She wants to be out in the middle of the pool without a float and wants me to take her out there but once there wants to let go! The child has no fear; especially since she loves to climb on the kitchen table. I guess I am going to have to put the kitchen chairs in the garage! Unless I am holding her, she makes a bee line to the chairs to climb on the table! Ahhh sweet, beautiful Campbell is so strong-willed! I hear she gets that from her sweet mama but I refuse to believe it!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-06-17T22:20:00.002-04:00

Asleep at the wheel

2009-06-08T22:08:00.003-04:00

Poor thing, she just couldn't stay awake to finish lunch! This was one of those days where she wouldn't take her morning nap! She is almost ready to cut out her morning nap because most of the time she just plays in her crib for 2 hours during that time! Please just hold off for another month!

Fun pics

2009-06-02T15:45:00.003-04:00

Carter taking a picture of himself from outside!

Carter loves his goggles! But wears them everywhere except the pool! This night he went to bed with them (not on) and when we went to check on him this is what we found! So funny! And yes, of course we took them off but not before a picture!

Memorial Day

2009-06-02T15:37:00.003-04:00

We had a low key Memorial day. We cooked out when it wasn't raining and went fishing. Really, Brandon and Carter went fishing and Campbell and I just watched. Carter loves fishing!

Park fun

2009-06-02T15:33:00.000-04:00

We have been enjoying some fun and now hot times at the park. Carter wakes up from his nap everyday wanting to go to the park. We are going to have to mix in the pool some! Campbell loves the park too and tries to do everything her big brother does; digging in the dirt even!

Last day of soccer

2009-06-02T15:24:00.000-04:00

Carter had his last day of soccer a few weeks ago. They got trophies and had a pizza party. Carter loves to play soccer and hopefully he will be ready for a team this fall!

Last day of preschool

2009-05-26T14:28:00.002-04:00

Carter had his last day of preschool for the year a couple of weeks ago. I am so glad I put Carter in preschool this year! We both really enjoyed it :o)

Carter and Joshua

Yummy ice cream

Ms. Tammy and Ms. Olivia

Last of the beach pictures

2009-05-19T15:24:00.004-04:00

Still more

2009-05-19T15:22:00.000-04:00

More beach

2009-05-19T14:48:00.000-04:00

Mother's Day at the beach

2009-05-17T16:07:00.001-04:00

I had a very nice Mother's day at the beach. The weather was simply wonderful and spending the day with my family was nice. I did get a chance to relax by the pool all to myself so that was nice too. We ended the day with a yummy dinner without the kids; which was a real treat!

I guess Campbell decided on day 2 that she might as well get use to the sand if we were going to put her in it! She covered herself from head to toe in sand! Thankfully she didn't eat it; although we were waiting for her to!

Beach day 1

2009-05-15T11:20:00.001-04:00

We had a wonderful time at the beach with Mimi and Pop Pop, Uncle Kirk, Aunt Lacy and Madi! The weather was perfect, not too hot and humid and not crowded at all! I have declared that the first part of May we will always go to the beach! Sitting on the beach for Mother's Day was simply a joy! Carter loved everything about the beach, Campbell on the other hand wasn't so sure. She DID NOT like the ocean and the first day she DID NOT like the sand! She screamed and cried when she touched it the first day. She did love the inflatable pool on the beach and hung out in there playing with her sand bucket like it was a purse! On day 2 she decided to embrace the sand; a little too much!