A Blessed Family

Christmas 2011

2012-01-31T07:03:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am blogging about Christmas 2 months after the fact ;) I wanted to document it, despite the embarrassment of being so late. The good news is the tree has been down since the day after Christmas so we didn't drag our feet on everything!

The boys had a great Christmas. They are at the perfect age! Can't wait till next year to have another one in the mix!

I sent the boys outside to feed the reindeer. Clearly there was a miscommunication, Brendan understood that to mean, get a ladder and put our young children on the roof! I was thinking... sprinkle the food on the grass!

Collins first Christmas Program. He was just bubbling with enthusiasm!

We had some of our nieces and nephew over for some Christmas festivities...

Although I don't have any pictures, our favorite part was Christmas Party hopping! Our friends know how to have a good time!

Hopefully the next blog will be the arrival of Brooks ;) :) ;) :)

Courtney

Nursery

2011-12-11T16:57:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone!

Thought I would make a rare appearance and give you a peak of the nursery ;)

Can I tell you how excited we are getting?!?! We have been out of the baby stage for a while now, so all this feels so new and fun! I seriously cannot wait to have a newborn around to cuddle, and feed, and kiss on all day!

Its the "sitting room" right off the master, love that it's footsteps from our room!

While I'm sharing pics... here is a glimpse of the new den furniture that I have been dying to get for 3 years ;)

Hope your enjoying plenty of Christmas parties!

Courtney

Collins turned 3

2011-11-16T10:35:00.000-08:00

I am a little late getting this out, but my sweet Collins turned 3!!!

My little love nugget is absolutely the sweetest thing. Don't get me wrong... he is a handful, and keeps me on my toes all the time. He can be completely exhausting. Period.

But I am so in love with him!!! He makes my heart melt and has us completely wrapped around his little finger.

He is the spitting image of his daddy in looks and in personality.

It has been an honor to be his mom the last three years! He is quite simply a blessing that I will never be able to adequately describe!

Courtney

October

2011-11-03T13:07:00.000-07:00

October is my favorite time of year, and this year has been no exception!

( Wouldn't it be awesome if just once everyone smiled authentically at the same time!!! )

We have been to so many festivals, block parties, and pumpkin patches!! Unfortunately, my camera has had a dead battery for most of the month! However, it was up and functioning for one pumpkin patch ;)

I would like to take just a second and brag on my boys daddy! Can I tell you that I am the luckiest girl around?!?! He has been such a rock, supporter, and spiritual leader for this family! He has gotten up with the boys through the night and early in the morning so that I can sleep! He runs out and gets my every craving ( and I have lots this go around :). He is just the best husband I could have wished for. I love him so much!! Ohh, and did I mention he was a hottie :)

OK, Back to the patch... :) :) :) :)

Collins was very curious if baby Brooks would eat like the cow eats, I tried to explain in a very gentle way that he would be eating slightly differently from mommy. Turns out Jack remembers more than one would think about how Collins ate as a babe... he was more than willing to share his knowledge! Help me Lord!

Needless to say... C was slightly confused after that conversation.

Sorry I have been so absent from this blog. Blogging is just far from my priority list these days. I do want to keep it going for a journal for my boys though! Hopefully I will ;)

Courtney

Another Blue Egg

2011-10-06T13:13:00.001-07:00

I am pretty sure everyone knows by now... We are having another boy in February!

This came as a much surprise and has been a roller coaster that one day I will share, but for now I will just share his name.

Brooks Grayson

Brooks : Because Brendan was certain that this had to be his name!

Grayson: Because, Grace :: defined is :: Getting something that you don't deserve.

We certainly feel this way and since Grace is much too girlie :) We went with Grayson.

He is already such a blessing and we just can't wait for him to get here!

We have been overwhelmed with friends that have supported us, and loved on us, and prayed for us. There is simply not words to express how we feel for these people.

We let everyone know it was a boy by filling cupcakes with blue icing, Jack was more than excited to see blue!!

Collins is super excited too! He understands more than I thought he would... however, I am not sure he completely grasps "the middle child" role ;)

Other than that we have been so busy doing life. The boys are continuing to thrive in school, which has given me time to invest in other things and people, and Bren is staying busy with us and work!

God is so good to us!

Courtney

Kindergarten

2011-08-19T06:04:00.000-07:00

My sweet Jack is officially a kindergartner!

We are finishing up our first week and it is going great! I just cannot say enough wonderful things about his school and what a positive experience this has been for all of us. As Jack always does, he has won the hearts of all the teachers there!

He loves everything about kindergarten! His most favorite things are art class, library, music, recess, and fire drills ;)

When we took Jack his first day, Collins kept telling him how happy he was for him and how proud he was of him. It was so sweet! Jack held Collins by the hand and walked him around school... melted my heart.

Before his first day we went on a special date to Starbucks.

And we picked our teacher an apple...

And away we went, nothing but SMILES!

My favorite quote by the principle, "This is so much more than a school, its a family".

Although it is a huge change for our family, its a good change, a necessary change, a full on blessing!

Courtney

A Quick Getaway

2011-07-31T13:56:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday we got a wild hair, thankful its not the kind that gets me to paint the house or rip down a wall, nope this wild hair caused us to pack our bags and leave for an adventure! Literally at 3:30 we decided on this adventure and by 4:00 we were pulling out. We knew we wanted to take the boys to the battleship USS Alabama and the rest we just decided as we went.

The Battleship did not disappoint!! Without a doubt the funnest thing the boys have ever done...

The memorial park also had a submarine to explore as well as an aircraft museum...

We stayed at the Renaissance Mobile Marriott which was right across from a children's museum, the mobile bay port, a park, downtown mobile ( which included a fun trip to a chocolatier and peanut depot ). After we had seen everything there we called and made reservations to our favorite place, The Grand Hotel in Fairhope.

Nothing but fun was had there...

We had such a great time with having no agenda! We just explored and had fun... and lots of room service! By far our most successful family vacation to date :)

Already looking forward to the next trip!

Courtney

Frozen Yogurt

2011-07-18T06:07:00.000-07:00

It has been super crazy around here! There has literally been a parade of people coming through our door non-stop.

It can be exhausting...

...but we wouldn't have it any other way! We love having a house full of friends :)

Speaking of friends, I wouldn't be a good friend if I didn't share my new found recipe. I am jumping on the internet for a rare second just to let you in on the best thing ever...

Homemade Frozen Yogurt

We love Yogurt Mountain and their Original Tart Yogurt and I was so excited when I came upon a recipe to make it myself. I was equally as excited to see it was easy to make!!

First you need an ice cream freezer ( either the old school style or the newer Cuisinart )

Next you need 32 oz container of PLAIN yogurt ( we found this brand to make the best )

Mix the yogurt with 3/4 cups of sugar, pour into the ice cream freezer, and proceed how your machine directs. With any luck you will be enjoying a taste of heaven in about 20 minutes!!!

Don't forget the toppings!

(p.s. This recipe will yield (4) 1 cup servings)

Hope you enjoy. Better go... got people coming over :)

Courtney

Sweet July - The kitchen is done!

2011-07-07T14:18:00.000-07:00

It's been a long time coming, but the "after pictures" of the kitchen are now ready :)

Every project we do always seems to be so much more involved and more time consuming than planned!! I am so happy with the end result though!!!

My stools that I got on sale at Restoration Hardware that I absolutely love! Still waiting on the seat cushions to arrive.

If you can't remember the kitchen before, I took these right as we were knocking down walls.

The kitchen looks and feels a thousand times bigger! Much improved :)

Now on to other subjects... Is it me or is the summer flying by??

We are spending all of our time with friends and having so much fun! Isn't it true... Life is so much better shared with those you love.

We have been spending lots of time at the pool this summer and when we are not at the pool, we are still getting wet!

We've also been on a cooking kick. This little kitchen has turned gourmet!! Its been so much fun and yummy!

Hope you guys are having a great summer!

Courtney

Father's Day

2011-06-20T08:35:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to take a minute to wish Brendan a happy Father's Day!! He really is the best father any kid could wish for. He somehow manages to work two jobs and still spend tons of quality time with the boys. After his police job everyday he loads the boys up and goes and checks on construction jobs. He never asks for time to himself and never runs off to pursue his own hobbies.

I picked a great guy to be the daddy of my children!

Courtney

Summer Days

2011-06-16T09:58:00.000-07:00

This summer has been busy just doing life. Jack has been busy with VBS and science camp, Collins and I have been busy getting some alone time for the first time in his life. Its amazing what quality alone time will do for a child!!

The boys also got to have a slumber party with their cousin Callie...

Oh and did I mention I had triplets...

Well not actually :) My friends each had a baby!

Other than that we have just been ripping down walls!

The kitchen is in the process of a much needed remodel and it is looking amazing! I will post about that in a couple weeks when we get the cabinets in.

Hope you are having a great summer!

Courtney

Jack

2011-05-23T12:36:00.000-07:00

Jack turned 5!!!

I am very late in making this post. But thats what happens when a tornado wipes out your WiFi!

I don't even know where to start. Seriously, his birthday came in the middle of chaos, and in true Jack fashion he just rolled with it. That's one of many reasons I am so inspired by this boy! The cake that we had so carefully planned, never happened. The little birthday details and the school party... none of that happened either. But on the night of his birthday we ran out and got a cake and pretended that there was candles on it...

He blew as if there were 5 candles perched atop that cake... I'm certain his wish will come true :)

He is the first child, he has taught us how to parent. He reminds us that most parenting issues can be solved with patience.

He is quite simply a gift that we are honored to open everyday...

Something else that comes with turning 5 : Preschool graduation.

He has had more fun in Preschool! Funny thing is, we started preschool for him to get a chance to get out of the house and give me a break. Well, its been so much more than that! He has learned to write his name, all the letters and numbers, and most of all he has gained friends! I have seen him grow so much in his leadership abilities as well. He has done nothing short of make us proud.

He's come along way since his first day...

So now we are on to new things!!

Kindergarten!

We went to kindergarten orientation and were just completely blown away at how fun and sweet is was. After touring EVERY school in town, we were covered in peace about our decision about sending him to Cahaba Heights Elementary. It was everything we prayed about and more.

I am so excited for him! We've just decided to embrace these milestones as they come and not grieve them or stop them from happening.

He is growing up and I am excited with him!! I just can't wait to see the person God develops him to be.

Courtney

My Town

2011-05-02T07:21:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to throw up a quick post about what is going on around here.

The community that we live in, Cahaba Heights was very heavily damaged by a tornado that passed through on Wednesday. I can't even begin to put into words what this place looked like... it was as if a bomb went off.

I started to take some pictures the day after, although I quickly put my camera down, it felt disrespectful. So many lost everything... even life.

I will share a few from outside our house. Fortunately, our home was spared... most were not.

Out of the debris and sadness rose goodness though! People poured into this community, and what I thought would take a year to clean up, took days. Don't get me wrong, we are not pieced back together yet. Most have moved out while their house get repaired/rebuilt, But the spirit of this community is going strong.

I have always blogged about my love for my home and community and today it is stronger than ever.

This is my town...

I just can't express my gratitude enough for all those that brought chainsaws, rakes, meals, and love.

I also can't tell you enough what you get out of serving. We also have been working non-stop helping others, and I can tell you this, the benefits to the server out way the benefits of the served.

We have gained far more than we have lost!

My heart is so full,

Courtney

Batter UP!

2011-04-03T18:43:00.000-07:00

The day has finally come! Seriously, this was one of the many reasons that I wanted boys. I have been dreaming of nickers, high socks, and numbered shirts... and our monogrammed hats just sent me over the edge :)

My Jack is playing T-Ball...

He is the cutest thing I have ever seen!

Let me tell you... he takes this very serious...

His first at bat...

His first SCORE...

( One very proud daddy )

His first dog pile...

Now, not every moment was precious. He did have his moments...

All in all it has been a great experience. He does have moments of frustration, because like his mother, he sets his bar very HIGH :)

I had a super fun time photographing a bunch of cuties!!

Oh, and this cutey too...

The unofficial bat boy!

Bring on the nachos and slush puppies for the next 15 years!!

Courtney

Neighbors

2011-03-27T11:45:00.001-07:00

Can I just take a moment and tell you how much I love my neighbors??

Seriously, when people ask me the keys to stay-at-home-mom happiness, one of them always includes good neighbors. They are essentially my co-workers. When the hours get long, and the work gets hard, and the kids get impossible, they quickly step in and help carry the load.

It is not at all uncommon for Bren to come home and find me and my neighbor friends in the driveway enjoying "happy hour". It is also not uncommon for him and all the other guys to pull in and join us ;)

These people are just one of a million reasons I love Cahaba Heights...

Remind me of them if I ever get the "itch" to move,

Courtney

I've Been VERY busy!

2011-03-20T18:34:00.000-07:00

This week I got a wild hair. Now when most people get a wild hair they go get a milkshake or something. Not me. Nope. I get a wild hair and decide to give our house an extreme home makeover.

This is something I've been wanting to do for a while, and I figured there is no time like the present!

So here you go...

Before...

AFTER!!!...

Looks way better doesn't it?!?!

It was exhausting work to say the least, but I was able to do it in 3 days. Since Bren was working I did 90% of the work ALL BY MYSELF!

I still can't believe it. I love it. I am proud of myself for putting my mind to something and finishing it!

I am also so grateful for Bren. He is such a trooper! He came home from work one day with his children running around like a bunch of orphans and his house half painted. He just gave me a thumbs up and jumped in to help. I think at this point nothing I do surprises him! When I was completely spent after laying a stone front porch ( yes, I did that too! ) he stepped in after a long day at work and helped finished the job.

He is the ultimate team mate and helper... for that I am grateful!

The boys... oh yes... my little orphans. They ran around for days, dirty, covered in paint and cement, and completely off schedule.

Collins had to put himself down for a nap.

Jack was more than eager to get messy with me.

My boys are going to think that our crazy life is normal. Maybe one day I'll explain that they have a crazy mother and this is not normal :)

Other than that it has been life as normal...

Sorry for the long post. I wanted to throw everything in because who knows when I will post again :)

Courtney

Oh my Goodness...

2011-03-07T04:39:00.000-08:00

I forgot what the "terrible twos" were all about! Maybe Jack didn't experience this stage as much or maybe I was too busy taking care of newborn Collins' to concern myself with this stage.

This two year old stage is no laughing matter!!!!!

My sweet little {AHEM} delinquent is doing nothing but keeping us exhausted...

I told him this behavior would lead him to a life behind bars but he just seems to think its funny!

I begged the arresting officer to take him in and book him, I would even put the car seat in the back of the squad car.

PLEASE DON"T LEAVE ME WITH HIM!!!!!

Unfortunately, the jail system just isn't equipped to handle an inmate of this caliber... so he left Collins with me!

I should have known that this was just the beginning....

Wonder if the psych ward has room for ME??????

Courtney

Now this is more like it!

2011-02-21T07:20:00.001-08:00

Seriously lovin' this weather! We had such a great weekend. Brendan's mom kept the boys and me and Bren had a sweat date at Oak Mountain and rode the 17 mile loop followed by a seriously relaxing stay at Ross Bridge. It felt so good to be in a bathing suit again!

This past week was super pink with Valentines activities...

Cousins Phoebe and Corrine sent the boys and awesome popcorn heart decorating kit...

Oh, and the biggest news of the week was Jack getting his kindergarten registration form! Can't believe how quickly this time has flown by. Our lives are about to change in a way I am certain I am not ready for!

Other than that... we have just doing what we do best...

Playing in the backyard!!

Courtney

Ahh... Winter

2011-02-10T06:56:00.000-08:00

Can I tell you something??? These harsh winter days are a form of torture to us!

We are outside people. Period.

So we are feeling like caged animals. Guess its going to make the coming spring even sweeter!

Just a glimpse of our winter days...

Snow Days...

Snow cream!

Courtney

Five fingers

2011-02-06T16:13:00.000-08:00

So I got these shoes...

Well... Collins isn't the best model :)

I thought ( was told ) that these would make me run so much better, faster, and easier. It's supposedly the "new thing". Well, $100 dollars poorer and I am not so sure. For starters, I look like a nut running in these things. Secondly, It feels like I am running barefoot... which I understand is the purpose, however, its horribly uncomfortable.

These were suppose to make me like an "African runner"... I PROMISE YOU, I look more like a nut than an African runner in these!!

Help!!!! Does anybody have any experience with these FiveFingers???

Courtney

I'm Baaaaaack!!!

2011-02-01T10:09:00.001-08:00

Whewwww. I was gone a long time. And can I tell you... I loved the break!!!!!

I equally loved my break from Facebook and Twitter. The break was a reminder of how meaningless the internet can be and what a great tool it is for Satan when it consumes too much time.

So many big things happened during the 21 days of prayer and fasting that I look forward to sharing with you when the time is right!

I don't have too many pics to share because I didn't pick my camera up much either ;)

I did finish with that ladder I left you pics of last post...

Doesn't it look a thousand times better?!?! I love it!!

Oh, and remember how the boys wanted a baby sister... got one of those too!

Well, at least for the next month... while her momma and daddy work :) :) :)

The boys have been running emergency preparedness drills as well...

So thats about it for now!

Courtney

Getting Ready...

2011-01-08T19:06:00.000-08:00

to be snowed in!!! We left the bread and milk to you guys ( we are nice like that ), yep our plan is to live on junk food...

We are waiting on the Blizzard of 2011. In the meantime...

The boys are busy showing me how helpful they will be if I {JUST} give them a baby sister ; )...

I've been buys hanging out with my buddies!! I had the best week ever last week! I met up with 7 friends in one week. We just ate and caught up and laughed a whole lot. I am loving this resolution! Although I am not getting much outside of socialization done :)

I've also been PICKIN'... you know, finding junk that ain't {JUNK}...

And I am working on a cool shelf unit...

OK, IT WILL BE COOL, JUST HAVE A LITTLE VISION :)

I am signing off the internet for the next 21 day. I am joining with my church in fasting and prayer. So I will catch up with you guys later...

Courtney

2011

2011-01-04T05:24:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!!!!!!
I must say that 2010 was really good to us!

God poured out favor on us and I know He has good things in store for us in 2011!

We are going to give all our energy to people and our church this year. It's going to be less about serving ourselves and more about serving others. Less about things that don't matter, and more about people who do.

Not sure how much blogging will get done... because honestly spending my time doing this isn't really serving anybody. I will try to update occasionally to keep my boys "bloggy journal" going though. We shall see...

Happy New Year!

Courtney

It's a wrap!

2010-12-27T05:41:00.000-08:00

The presents are all unwrapped and our house is sprinkled with toys. Christmas 2010 is officially a wrap!

It was the best Christmas I can remember! We spent lots of time doing festive things, hanging out with family, and working many a candlelight services at Church of the Highlands.

We made cookies...

We feed reindeer...

We enjoyed all of our Christmas Cards! Thanks so much for sending them!

We opened lots of gifts...

...at 6am. Notice it is still dark outside!

And I finally got my dream of a white Christmas!!!!

We also celebrated Brendan's Birthday!!! We love him so much and he is such a blessings to this family!

He has been wanting a remote control helicopter for some time (kid at heart) so that's what he got this year...

It has been flying around the house all weekend!

Collins loved it... NOT!

So there you have it. The Fuller family Christmas.

That Baby in a manger has been so good to us!!

We truly are a blessed family!!

Courtney

Iced Houses

2010-12-22T12:54:00.000-08:00

We have been very busy around here. Not in a running in circles kind of way, but a good way! Spending lots of time with friends and family, not to mention lots of play groups with school being out. I have been in the kitchen a lot making super cute jars of honey butter and lots of chocolate pies... and I didn't take a picture of any of it.

Honestly, I've been far to busy living life to capture it.

However, when it was time to make gingerbread houses I did break out the camera:

Christmas is exhausting...

I am trying to lay off the computer some lately. Is it just me, or can it become all consuming??

Staying on Facebook or reading blogs puts me in a weird funk. It makes me discontent, envious, jealous, and disillusioned. So I am trying to keep this laptop closed. I still want to blog on occasion, but that's it. I am really looking forward to January where I plan to fast the internet all together!

Focusing on CHRISTmas,

Courtney

Sparks of Change

2010-12-14T18:48:00.000-08:00

By far my favorite thing about my home is the fireplace. It is one of the huge benefits of a 1950's home :)

Our fireplace has seen lots of love through the years. We literally burn around the clock in the winter and all that burning has caused the bricks to become weak, so Bren had to re-brick the inside. I figured since the inside got a face lift so should the outside :)

This is what things looked like a couple of days ago...

This is what things look like tonight...

I got a great idea from this blog and decided to breakout my tools and get to work.

It literally took an hour! Bren cut and nailed, and I roughly painted and added the hinges.

So whatcha think? Doesn't it add to the mantel a whole lot! So happy to have something fresh to look at :) Oh and that mirror that was above the mantel... don't be sad for it, it's getting a makeover too!

One last thing : The painting I was working on in the last post was a family tree for Bren's parents. They have received it, so now I can blog about it :)

Courtney

He's come a long way...

2010-12-11T08:05:00.000-08:00

Jack and his relationship with Santa that is.

Two years ago:

This year:

Collins has a very long way to go...

Pure terror:

Hope Santa leaves him a little something anyways :)

Just in full Christmas swing around here:

Jacks annual Christmas concert at preschool. Can't believe this is his last one :(

And ~~Picasso~~ Me painting a few gifts :)

Certainly in the Christmas spirit around here!

Courtney

Diggin' Denver

2010-12-06T15:34:00.000-08:00

Seriously, can I tell you how much I loved Denver?!?!

We had the best time! We felt like young kids dating in a cool place without a care in the world!

We toured every nook and cranny of that great city, visited Red Rocks, visited Golden - home of Coors (as in beer) plant...

We also went snowmobiling and had the best time ever! It certainly topped our list of funnest things we have ever done. The pictures really don't do it justice... but I'll share any way's :)

Brendan standing on the Continental Divide. The ski runs of Winter Park in the background.

Our friends Alex and Ashley hooked us up with an awesome vacation and a seriously cool place to stay. We are totally jealous of their early 1900's Craftman style home. Everything about that house made me drool... speaking of drool, did I mention they just had a super sweet baby Hudson?

This is in his nursery. His momma got the cards off Etsy and the window frame came from their house.

What a great idea that was!

These are some other pics of my dream house :)

Had such a great time!! Made memories that will last forever!

Courtney

The season has arrived!

2010-11-30T18:32:00.000-08:00

Our tree is up! We didn't exactly go with tradition this year and cut one down. Nope, we went to Home Depot ( Its still real though :) It was partly because I'm a cheap skate and partly because our schedule has quickly filled up. I am learning I have to be PURPOSEFUL in not becoming overwhelmed.

I am also learning that Christmas isn't about having the lights and ornaments match my decor. This is something that we all should be able to share in. I have allowed the kids to play a huge part it decorating and making the house fun. It goes against all my OCD desires :)

We have just been hanging out beside the fire. Playing with our breakable Christmas houses. Putting ornaments on the tree. Taking ornaments off the tree. Cleaning needles off the floor. Baking cookies...

Jack even called me in the playroom to show me what he had made out of the train set...

We are just having a good ole' time!

Thursday Bren and I are off to Denver. Can I tell you how excited we are!!??! Going to see some great friends! Hopefully I will have lots of good pics to share ; )

Until then,

Courtney

Christmas pics: Take 1

2010-11-26T10:25:00.000-08:00

I would be lying if I said I look forward to trying to take Christmas pics. Actually, I get a huge knot in my stomach because I know what I am up against.

You see... my boys hate the camera, they hate pictures. It's my fault. I've ruined them.

Taking 10,000 pictures (literally) will do that.

But persevere I will!

Yep, I will try to give them a pep talk...

Brendan will attempt the pep talk...

We will try to get them to stay still...

But they won't. Nope they will run...

They will be captured by daddy...

All that for the hopes that a momma will get a sweet picture with her little boy...

Or those wild boys will stop a moment and look my way...

Love the pictures I got, but so glad it is over ;)

Life with boys,

Courtney

Fuller 1st Annual Camping trip

2010-11-22T05:05:00.000-08:00

I am a lover of the outdoors. Brendan is a lover of the outdoors.

Therefore, it is only natural we want our boys to be lovers of the outdoors ;)

So this weekend we set out for our first camping trip. We have been slowly collecting camping stuff over the past few years in anticipation of this occasion. We picked Oak Mountain State Park for our first site because it is the least primitive. The boys could hardly contain themselves they were so excited!

We went for two... 2 man tents. We bought high quality gear and tried to plan for the long term, not so much for the little kid stage. I thought having their own tent might scare them, but it didn't a bit! Actually, they were so excited about having their own tent that they went to play in it and fell asleep at 6:30!

Our favorite thing was just hiking and being outside. Away from t.v. and mounds of toys.

Well, that and eating ;)

The best campfire philly cheese steaks ever!

They only "bump" in the road was that Collins was up at 4:30. And he wasn't quietly up, nope. He was screaming "pancakes and milk" at the top of his lungs! So we quickly took camp down, threw it in the back of the truck, and went to Cracker Barrel.

All in all it was a big success. We are trying to be very intentional about making memories, and I'm pretty sure we made some this weekend!

Courtney

Callie Girl

2010-11-20T05:36:00.000-08:00

This week we got to spend a few days with my niece Callie. It was so much fun adding a little pink and pigtails to all this blue and buzz cuts!

She is basically the cutest thing ever!! And the boys adore her!

( Collins hates getting his picture taken!)

I did capture a cheesey pic of my two as well...

Courtney

The Beginnings...

2010-11-17T18:21:00.000-08:00

Of what will soon be my dining room table:

So its been a while since we decided to change up the dining room. Basically I am going for the "out with the new, in with old" look.

This is the before:

This is the middle while we wait for our table to be finished:

This will be the after:

Well not exactly ;) This and a whole lot of elbow grease.

While I appreciate the Pottery Barn look, and our Ethen Allen table is serving us well... I like old. I am not only obsessed with old houses, I appreciate old/ vintage furnishings. With the help of Bren's dad I was able to get this wood that is from the 1800's! What heritage it has!

I cannot wait to have this...

In my dining room, with benches neatly tucked under it, and upholstered chairs tucked into the ends.

But I know good things take time and hard work:

So wait I will, and I'll be back to share the finished product.

Courtney

A perfect day

2010-11-12T17:29:00.000-08:00

Thursday we took off on a little road trip to Florence. If you have been around this blog anytime than you know that UNA is my Alma Mater and I love that corner of North Alabama!

It was such a great day. We took the boys by campus to see the {real} Lions and to show them my old stompin' grounds.

Making big roars...

We even got to catch part of the Veterans' Day parade...

The number one reason for the trip was to check out some of my good friends babies. I had so much fun getting baby love!! My friends do have the prettiest baby girls. Can I just say that I have held 3 newborns in the last two days and I don't even have baby fever... ok, maybe just a tad. {GRIN}

I will say that the day turned not so perfect on the way home with a very tired two year old. Guess the PERFECT day only happens in heaven :)

Courtney

Heritage

2010-11-10T17:57:00.000-08:00

My Grandmother recently passed down to me a cookbook that has been in our family since 1894. It has been used by the last 4 generations.

Twentieth Century Cookbook and Housekeeping

I carefully took it out of the bag it was in, and ever so gently flipped the pages. It didn't take me long to realize how good I've got it. Every recipe include milking a cow, or breaking a chickens neck.

My great.. great...Great Grandmother even sketched in a few of her own recipes.

I love the stains on the pages. I love they represent years of mixing bowls, spills, and family dinners.

My sweet grandmother even gave me the pot that she has cooked in over the years. I was so excited that I ran out and bought all the ingredients for my favorite meals.

Well, it didn't take long for me to figure out that those meals are so much more than the book they came from or the pot that cooked them.

Nope, its the hands that prepared them that makes the meals what I remembered as a child.

This cookbook will be something that I will hold dear and hopefully pass along one day. In the meantime, my hands are busy preparing my own special recipes to feed the ones that I love. Just like generations past...

Courtney

A little late

2010-11-07T17:06:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty sure that posting Halloween pictures this late is equivalent to putting a Christmas tree up in January. However, I got out from under my rock and took a quick trip to Houston and now I'm behind a bit on blogging.

To be honest... I am not to fond of the holiday. I hate what it represents, I hate all the candy, and the waste of money on costumes. The skulls, witches, and skeletons are a bit much for me. Not sure what our stance will be in the future, but this year the kids had a "parade" and party at school and we participated.

Jacks favorite part by far was the eating.

Collins shares my feelings for this crazy holiday...

Glad its over.

Courtney

fall inspired

2010-10-28T05:38:00.000-07:00

Every fall I get inspired to cook. Something about cooler weather that makes me want some home cooking. Well, I waited for cooler weather and it never came, so I figured some of my yummy recipes might bring the fall this way... and they did!

Woke up this morning to much cooler weather ;)

A super easy Apple Crisp

Ingredients

1 cup brown sugar
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup butter, melted
3 cups apples - peeled, cored and chopped
1/2 cup white sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Mix the top 4 ingredients put on the bottom of a pan. Then the apples. Then the other 2 ingredients mixed on top. Or you could mix it all together and throw it in a pan ( thats what I do ). Bake 350 for 45 min.

Chicken Pot Pie

Ingedients

2 cans of mixed vegetables
1 can cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream ( I just add this to make sure there is enough wet ingredients )
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups of cooked cubed chicken
1 can Crescent rolls

Mix together top 4 ingredients. Pour into greased pan. Cover with Crescent rolls pinching the sides to create seal. Bake 350 till top is golden brown.

THE BEST CARMEL CORN EVER!!!

This is kind of a labor intensive recipe. Anything that requires a lot of dishes to be washed is not typically something that I make. It looked so good though...

It requires boiling the caramel, lots of mixing, and baking.

It is so good though, and I am certain it will become an annual thing! Ohh... and I got the recipe from the new Southern Plate Cookbook.

We are also totally addicted to these pancakes that we make multiple cans of every year! Seriously, you need to try them... there is simply not a better pancake out there!

And lets not forget Apple Julep! I can't keep this stuff in the fridge!

Ingredients
1 qt apple juice
1 cup orange juice
1 cup pineapple juice ( I use two small cans... 12oz )
1/4cup lemon juice

Mix. Chill. Serve over crushed ice.

All this eating has inspired my latest painting too...

Courtney

Auburn

2010-10-25T18:23:00.000-07:00

I believe that this is a practical world and that I can count only on what I earn. Therefore, I believe in work, hard work.

I believe in education, which gives me the knowledge to work wisely and trains my mind and my hands to work skillfully.

I believe in honesty and truthfulness, without which I cannot win the respect and confidence of my fellow men.

I believe in a sound mind, in a sound body and a spirit that is not afraid, and in clean sports that develop these qualities.

I believe in obedience to law because it protects the rights of all.

I believe in the human touch, which cultivates sympathy with my fellow men and mutual helpfulness and brings happiness for all.

I believe in my Country, because it is a land of freedom and because it is my own home, and that I can best serve that country by "doing justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with my God."

And because Auburn men and women believe in these things, I believe in Auburn and love it.
-George Petrie (1945)

Celebrated an amazing weekend in Auburn that I won't soon forget!

WAR EAGLE,
Courtney

Just Waiting...

2010-10-22T08:03:00.001-07:00

On cooler weather to arrive :

Courtney

Happy Birthday Love Nugget

2010-10-17T20:19:00.000-07:00

Our sweet miracle turned 2!!!!!!

Sometimes in life there just isn't words to describe how you feel...

Your heart feels so full like it just might explode...

It's beyond comprehension that you are so very blessed...

Oh, somebody pinch me...

This weekend was such a reminder of how good God is to us. How our cup is running over. Not just with this boy, but also with the friends that prayed him into existence. Our closest, most dear friends, that came to celebrate this special day with us.

Our hearts are so full

So make a wish buddy. Because we are wishing for you a life that is full of as much blessings as you have brought to us...

Courtney
( Big thanks to Jaime Scott Photography for taking many of the pics, you can check out more here )

Thristy?

2010-10-14T19:41:00.000-07:00

Well, if you are thirsty Jack has something just for you!

He has been asking Bren to build him a lemonade stand for quite sometime. Although we have been super busy, he took some time to work on the stand.

It still is a long way from finished, but that didn't stop Jack.

LEMONADE!!!!!

His first customer... so excited!

Bren had set him up on the sidewalk.

It took a true business person { AHEM } to know that its all about the location. So MOMMA moved him to the street.

I was super impressed with his business skills, and I can sleep better knowing that we have extra income coming in now ;)

Jack did learn that working isn't all its cracked up to be...

Wasn't long before he joined Me and Collins in the backyard to play. Turns out Jack wants to be a "stay at home" person too. Can't blame him :)

Courtney

painted change

2010-10-06T18:48:00.000-07:00

Well my "new leaf" is going super fabulous!! I love painting and I'm learning so much.

Most of all I love doing something for me, a break, change, using a different side of my brain!

I might not be Picasso yet, but I am closer than I was ;)

Ok, so I won't quit my day job, but this might be my new night job.

Courtney

Closed

2010-10-04T18:26:00.000-07:00

I know this blog has been closed for business the last week. You want to know why????

WE ARE WAY TO BUSY LIVING LIFE TO BLOG ABOUT IT!

This is the time of year that we live outside, and I certainly do not drag my computer outside with me.

YEP, To busy cleaning off the roof...

Cleaning up the yard...

Chasing a ball around the field...

Hanging out with our cousin who could very well be Collins twin...

And far to busy calling the Highway Patrol!

Perhaps next time Bren lets the boys play in his police car he will remember to turn his radio off!

I suppose I could have stepped in but I was too busy taking pics... and watching Bren break into pure panic was kinda funny ;)

BREAKER 19, BREAKER 19, Collins has an emergency!

Super yum recipes to come in the next post.

Courtney

This is what I had in mind...

2010-09-26T13:04:00.000-07:00

When I had boys!!!

I begged the Lord for a boy when I was pregnant... and oh did He deliver!

I dreamed of ball fields, nachos, and slush puppies!

I think the good Lord knew that I could not handle indoor dark rooms with soft flowing music... Covered in a a non-stop flow of pink tutus ; )

This is my comfort zone!

If you need me, I'll be perched on a bleacher somewhere for the next 18 years.

Courtney

Everday Life

2010-09-21T19:52:00.000-07:00

Just a glimpse...

Of everyday life...

Here in the backyard.

Turning over a new leaf

2010-09-20T12:51:00.000-07:00

The past year I have been making every effort to do something different, try something new. I think often times in life we get in a rut, we just keep doing the same old thing. Its easy to just claim your kids keep you busy, and while mine certainly do that, I don't want to use that as an excuse. They are just passing through, they will be moving on whether I like it or not.

When they are gone I do not want the emptiness that sometime accompanies that. I don't want to not know who I am or what I am all about.

I am not doing them any favors by losing myself in this parenting process.

My New Leafs:

Running. I started unable to run at all. I joined a running club, met new people, and discovered strengths I never knew I had. More importantly I was beyond inspired by others doing the same thing. While there are days that I don't love to run, I am still doing it and appreciate what it has done for me. I am much stronger than I thought.

Reading. Yes, I know its goofy. You see, I don't believe until last year I had read a book since I outgrew Beverly Cleary. I was able to make it through 22 years of school while avoiding any books. I thought cliff notes was the golden standard.
Well, I set a goal: read one novel. I did. Thirty novels later I am still reading. Turns out I enjoy it. So glad for turning over that leaf!

MY new leaf...

Painting!
I can hardly draw a stick person, which makes this the perfect thing. I am feeling like the next Picasso and can hardly wait till my first lesson on Wednesday! I am getting lessons from an artist along with 8 other people. Oh, and it includes bringing an appetizer and a bottle of wine... Does it get any better than that?!

Can't wait to post my first work of art. I am sure it will sell for thousands ;)

Courtney

Back to Life

2010-09-15T12:43:00.000-07:00

Brendan and I slipped away to our favorite place on this side of the ocean: The Grand Hotel

It was so wonderful and much needed. I love my boys and love spending every day with them, but sometimes a girl needs a break.

We laid in the pool for hours

Played ping pong... I won of course ;)

And went sailing multiple times.

Oh and then there was room service. Lots of room service. So nice to have someone waiting on me for a change.

It was hands down the best time we have had in years. I relaxed at a level that I haven't been able to for four years.

I feel renewed and refreshed... and ready to go again!

Courtney

The first day

2010-09-08T19:26:00.000-07:00

If I was a good mother I would have pics of the first day of preschool.
I don't.

Yes, I would be in a cute outfit crouched down next to them in their classrom.
Not covered in snot and peanut butter without makeup.

Their bags would be monogrammed. And matching of course.
We can't even find ours.

I think I set the tone for the first words out of Jacks mouth when he climbed back into the car after school:
"MOM, I've got to be honest, It wasn't a very good first day for the two of us".

SOMETIMES IN LIFE YOU'VE GOT TO DO SOMETHING TO TURN THE TITANIC AROUND.

I decided we needed a party. A party to celebrate the first day being over, and success from this day forward.

Our sweet neighbors joined us for the fun. It consisted of a picnic, soccer, wrestling, and frisbee till dark.

Courtney

What was I thinking

2010-09-08T19:12:00.000-07:00

In my quest to get Mother of the Year at some point during this career, I decided to take the kids bowling. For some crazy reason, I thought I would get bonus mommy points for doing something like this by myself on a weekday.

I can be so dumb sometimes!

We went. Other than old, weird people, we were the only ones there.

It was successful for a short time...

I was enjoying how cute their little shoes were, and they were enjoying picking up huge balls...

Then Collins decided to give the old, weird folks a show...

Ahh screaming, and fit throwing.

Bren decided to make a surprise visit, I was hoping it would turn this ship around. It didn't

I think his arrival just added to the show. We looked crazy, I looked crazier taking pictures of it all. I think that was the most action Vestavia Bowl has seen in a while.

I will not be returning anytime soon.

Courtney

We got a bigger house!!!

2010-09-04T18:59:00.000-07:00

OK, so we didn't actually buy a bigger house.... nope.... we just cleaned out the one we have!!

Seriously, every room in this house has been organized to perfection. With one exception : The Basement.

Over time, and with the addition of children, it has gotten completely out of control. Everyday when we play in the yard we drag toys back and forth from this nice dark cave.

Having a contractor husband doesn't help at all either. We are the lumber yard, home depot, and the dump all in one convenient location.

Today things changed. We took on this beast and it is much improved!!!

The Before {GASP}:

The During:

( I went to get the paint and while I was gone Bren thought it would be a good idea to mop the basement with my kitchen mop!!! {YUCK} )

THE AFTER:

Bren still has to finish organizing his tool bench. The Auburn game took priority to that ( as it should ).

Seriously, all kidding aside, we gained 600 square feet.

Ohhhhhh. I am just so happy :) HAVE I MENTIONED LATELY HOW I LOVE THIS HOUSE??!

Courtney

Play Ball

2010-08-31T19:21:00.000-07:00

We have been wanting to take the boys to some Auburn games this season, so we decided to do a trial run and start small... A Barons game. It went pretty good. They loved eating junk food ( just like their mom ) but once that was over, they became restless. It was no big deal because the Barons games are anything but crowded so they had plenty of room to roam. However, this will not be the case at the BIG games. Soooooo I am thinking they aren't quite ready... which means we need babysitters... any takers???

Jack loved eating ice cream out of the hat. ( i loved that too as a kid )

He did get into the game for a moment, but overall Collins had way more interest in what was happening on the field.

After my food was gone, I was caught up on how much better baseball knickers look as opposed to full pants. So much cuter with everything meeting at the knee :)

Collins getting down with the music.

Roaming.

Just let me know what Saturdays you are free :) :) :)

Courtney

Flower Power

2010-08-25T17:58:00.000-07:00

I am on a kick {shocking}. I live on kicks... they change on a weekly basis.

My kick this week...

FLOWERS

Brendan use to buy me flowers all the time. And finally I had to break it to him...

" Honey, I appreciate the flowers but with $4 dollars left in the bank, a bouquet of flowers that will die in days kinda makes me sick at my stomach."

So just like that... these stopped:

Well praise the LORD, those days are gone!!! And now I have changed my mind!

Me: Baby it sure would be nice and romantic if you would bring me flowers ever once in a while.

Bren: I thought you didn't want flowers. You claimed that they are nothing but a waste of money that make you sick at your stomach.

Me: Well, times have changed, I want flowers now. Not roses though, nope I'm not a rose gal. I want flowers!

Bren: WOMEN!!! ( next day what did he bring home ????? )

Flowers, glorious, beautiful, flowers.

Now they are covering every surface :)

In case you were wondering... I did sell the dining room table and I am in the process of redoing the room. I am still waiting on Bren to make my farm table, so in the meantime this is what things look like...

( I still haven't sold the clock and wall table so that's why I am only picturing half the room )

Courtney

A quick escape

2010-08-23T05:48:00.000-07:00

Brendan and I got a wild hair last week and decided to pack up and take a quick trip to Chattanooga. I thought it might help me with the "end of summer rut" I seem to be in. I knew the boys would like getting out of the house as well.

Can I just say... I love this place

There is something so warm and inviting about Chattanooga. Every time we go we love to explore the whole area. We try to eat where the locals eat and visit places off the beaten path. However, with kids in tow, we sought out fun places for them.

We scored big time when we landed at the Creative Children's Museum!!! This place was cool!!

A giant Operation Game. This was basically my favorite game ever growing up...

Jack was climbing zits {yuck}

I am not sure who had more fun there... them or us!!

As with any place we go, we spent a lot of time on the streets walking. We loved crossing the river on the BIG walking bridge...

( Check out that hottie pushing the stroller ;) .... He's mine

The trip was a big success. We had the most success ever in a hotel with two kids :)

Courtney

I'm over it!

2010-08-17T05:28:00.000-07:00

While I have enjoyed vacationing, having no schedule, eating trash, not exercising, and sipping on smoothies everyday...

I AM OVER IT!!!

I am so ready for normalcy!!!

- ready for preschool.

- ready to get back to running.

- ready for a fireplace with roaring fires.

- ready for Auburn Football.

- ready to ditch the trash food and embrace organics again.

- ready to wear scarfs and jackets.

OHHHHHHH.... I am so ready!!

Please leave summer, you are no longer welcomed, I am OVER you!

Courtney

Rotten Apples

2010-08-13T20:27:00.000-07:00

Well, the moment we all have been waiting for has arrived!

The apples are ready to harvest. I would be slightly more thrilled if the apples weren't rotten. Not sure what went wrong, but all the apples have black spots on them {YUCK}.

Jack has been begging everyday to pick the apples, so rotten or not, he was super excited.

This was the best looking one...

Our neighbor tasted and reported it to be yummy, I will just take her word on that :)

Only one of our four fruit trees produced fruit, so I won't be making apple preserves, or apple pies this year! Maybe next year...

COLLINS was ok with apple picking, but he would much rather be on the deck building...

We have put lots of lumber, nails, screws, hammers, and drills on the deck for them to play with and keep out of the sun. { safe... I know }

They love it!... this little boy especially :)

Courtney

Diaper change

2010-07-31T14:55:00.000-07:00

Jack was going through my stuff the other day and came across some gloves. They are from way back when... you know when I worked... let me rephrase that... When I got paid for my work.

Anyways. He decided Collins needed a diaper change and he would use the gloves to properly protect himself.

Collins was not at all thrilled with this idea...

Thank goodness daddy stepped in!!!

All in all he did a pretty good job :)

Such raw talent

PS. We have taken a break from cloth diapering this summer because he was getting so hot in them.

Courtney

Still here...

2010-07-28T12:41:00.000-07:00

Still just enjoying our summer. Hanging out. Building forts...

Loving on these boys...

Vacuuming...

Arguing over the vacuum...

Enjoying a nice visit to timeout because the argument could not be resolved ;)

I hate the heat of summer, but I love the pace of summer. We are just enjoying our days doing whatever we want too!! I love being a grown-up!

Courtney

For Sale

2010-07-19T18:30:00.000-07:00

As you can probably tell by now, we are in the process of redoing every room in our house. The dining room is next on the list. We have a formal dining room and I am wanting an informal room to go with the cottage feel... like a farm table and vintage hutch. In order to do this, I must sell what I have. So I am shamelessly using this post to get it out there:

Full dining room, clock, accessories and all $2000

Hoping you want it, or someone you know!

Also trying to sell these things...

Pottery Barn Taylor Rug. Blue 5x7. $100

Fleurville Diaper bag $50

Pottery Barn Bedding. Bumper and skirt. Elephant pattern. blue and green. $50

Keeping my finger crossed :)

Courtney

Finally...

2010-07-19T17:58:00.000-07:00

I found a paint color I liked!!

The wall color was Jamestown Blue. While it is one of Pottery Barns colors of the seasons, it no longer did anything for me. After 6 painting attempts, I finally found the perfect color, Misted Green ( which actually isn't green at all ).

After being inspired by the new color, I decided to tackle the laundry room. Its right off our bedroom and has become the disaster room...

Disaster NO MORE!!!

I later went back and painted the ceiling the color of the bedroom. It looks great :)

I decided these little containers would be the perfect things to hold my detergent...

What were the boys doing while we were busy in our projects???

Getting into trouble of course. They must love timeout!

I also cleaned out the kitchen cabinets. To say they were a complete mess would be an understatement! Now everything has its place. Makes me so happy :)

I am nesting...IN a NON-pregnant kind of way!

Courtney

You can find me at...

2010-07-14T11:56:00.000-07:00

CHUYS

I would blog more, but I can't seem to stay out of this place. We love mexican food and Birmingham finally has a place worthy of our love! They opened last week and we have already eaten there 4 times.

Now, I really don't want to advertise for this place because the wait is long enough. However I wouldn't be a friend if I didn't share the perks of HAPPY HOUR.

The back of this car...

Has all the makings for nachos. And if you come between the hours of 4-7 m-f its all free!! Not to mention super yummy...

They also have a secret. Its called jalepeno cream. Basically its the best ranch you have every put in your mouth with a kick! Its FREE too. Just ask for it with your chips...

What does Bren think of this little jewel right down the street in the Summit...

Did I also mention the Margs are $4.50 during happy hour??

Well, better get off the computer. Meeting friends for dinner tonight... at Chuys of course!!

Courtney

Room to play

2010-07-07T17:39:00.000-07:00

It is finished...

The room that has been in my head is now actually in our house. I am so excited for the new look and the boys love it.

We got all the accessories at Ikea and the couch and rug at West Elm. The couch is the perfect size and was the perfect price as well! It was discounted $400 because of a broken leg. We just built a sturdy base around the bottom ( it still needs painting as you can see ). The TV/ toy unit was originally a built in tool shelf in the basement. Although it is 60 years old it was still in great shape and nothing a little paint couldn't help. I must say it was a huge task getting it upstairs though.

Jack loves his magnet board to show off all his art. I love the stainless bar with hanging cups! It feeds my need for organization...

And we all love the chalkboard/drawing board/dry erase board...

( Collins wanted the monkey in all the pics :)

During the process we cleaned out over half of our toys. They just seemed to clutter up everything and get in the way of toys we really loved!

I can happily say... It is finished!

Courtney

The best weekend ever

2010-07-06T09:55:00.000-07:00

Seriously, we just wrapped up a super fun weekend! Me and Bren took off to Atlanta for some shopping and a little R&R.

I got to hit my two new favorite stores...

We literally shopped till we dropped! Our mission was to outfit the playroom and we had big time success.

Bren was my car loader...

By the time it was over, our ride was loaded down with a couch, rug, 3 tables, and numerous other things!

We stayed at the Marriott Marquis and it was awesome...

When we went to check in, they told us they had upgraded our room. It was a huge suite!! We got such a kick how the Lord not only provided for us all weekend, but upgraded us, and everything that we had prayed about finding... we found... at huge discount!

So much fun.

We made it home in time to celebrate the 4th with the boys and cook a little chicken on the egg...

We wrapped up the weekend with a family playgroup in the morning and dinner with just adults at the premier of Chuys in Birmingham. Brendan got us a VIP invite since he did their liquor license. It DID NOT disappoint. Its located at the Summit and has the best mexican in the city. PERIOD. We took our neighbors and had a great time!!

Hopefully I will get the room put together soon and share some pics with you!

( Big thanks to Grammy for watching the boys! )

Courtney

Like a fish in water

2010-07-06T09:44:00.000-07:00

May I introduce you to...

~~Micheal Phelps~~ Jack Fuller
The last two weeks we have spent busy with swim lessons. Can I just tell you... I am so glad that is over. It sure did interfere with our social life ;)

He enjoyed it. Not sure that he can swim any better though...

Oh well, I think good ole' backyard swimming is probably the best way to learn. He's like his mom and dad... learns better outside of the class room!

We have also been busy camping out in our new room...

Ahhh... to be a kid again.

Courtney

A shared room

2010-06-30T16:37:00.001-07:00

Well, the day has come... the Fullers no longer need a nursery :(

I would be lying if I told you that I wasn't sad about taking the nursery down and shipping my baby out to the big boy bed. I was certainly not ready for this moment. However, ready or not, the moment is here.

Let me introduce you to the room of big boys...

The cool shelves we made...

I have been busy painting, decorating, shopping, arranging... re-arranging.

The nursery has been taken apart and painted. It will soon be the playroom. Can't wait to share with you the new look! I am so loving it!

So a new chapter has open. And the last chapter closed.

Courtney

5 Years...

2010-06-24T13:37:00.000-07:00

Yep, That's how long the two of us have been married!

You want to know what has changed the most in the 5 years I've been married to Bren????

One word : WARDROBE

When I meet Bren his closet consisted of 10 pairs of identical Levi jeans ( light wash ), 10 collared pique shirts, 1 blue blazer, 1 floral tie, 1 pair brown lace up boots, 1 pair of tennis shoes, and lots of cop stuff.

No shorts, No swimsuit, NOTHING designer. It was clear... he was a heterosexual.

My, oh, my... HOW THINGS HAVE CHANGE.

He now has over 10 pairs of dress shoes alone.

He now has over 30 ties. ( I am happy to report the floral tie is at the bottom of the landfill )

He had 12 suits. I gently encouraged him to donate half. He now has 6 suits. He basically collects them, because other than funerals and weddings, he does not wear them.

He use to wear his socks like this...

He now wears them like this...

The man who had ZERO dress shoes, now ask for his shoes by their designer name.

The man who didn't own a suit, now has a couple thousand dollars tied up in them!

The man who only wore boots, now wears sandals.

The man that thought denim was the only kind of fabric, now has expanded his fabrics to include: linen, seersucker, and satin.

In a 1950's house with 5 closets, Brendan takes up half.

I didn't make him this way, oh no, he evolved on his own!

He is my sweet, loving, best decision I ever made husband.

One thing is clear, however... Based on closet alone... The man I married 5 years ago is a Metrosexual!

Wonder what the next 5 years will bring??? I'm not sure, but I am certainly looking forward to it!

Love you so much Brendan Fuller!!!

Hope I don't get in too much trouble for this post ;)

Courtney

Too Busy...

2010-06-23T18:03:00.000-07:00

TO BLOG!!

Seriously, we have been way too busy planting, playing, swimming, vacationing, working, and redecorating to BLOG!

Soon though, I will post of these things. Until then, I am on a hiatus!

Courtney

Just trying...

2010-06-10T19:11:00.000-07:00

Just trying to stay cool and have a little fun in the process.

Well, fun for Jack...

He had fun squirting Collins...

And splashing Collins...

What did Collins think of this??

He most certainly did not enjoy it!

Its hard being the little brother.

OK, so maybe Jack isn't the best brother all the time.

Its just nice having something to cool us down. Reminds me why we have been running off to the lake every weekend!

Courtney

Design on more than a Dime

2010-06-05T18:53:00.000-07:00

Our kitchen is clearly protesting us! In one week our dishwasher and fridge went out.

Now, I must say, I was as happy about this as Brendan was when the tv went out! I have been wanting to update these two things for quite a while. We flipped our kitchen before, but thought it was wasteful to get rid of perfectly working appliances. So up until now, those have been here since I moved in.

So, we put in a new dishwasher and are still awaiting the arrival of our new fridge.

All this change and excitement gave me the itch to change one more thing, the backsplash.

I thought Brendan was going to kill me since the paint incidence had become such a nightmare, but with a little persuasion, I had him willing to help.

It has been the easiest project to date and I am thrilled with the results.

Before...

After...

(I only took pics from one angle because I want to wait for the new fridge to show the other.)

This made the project so much more enjoyable :)

Old houses are such a labor of love, but I just love them!!! Most people find it odd that my husband builds big, gorgeous new homes... and we live in a 60 year old home. I just find small, cozy cottages so warming.

There is something special about this home that I just can't explain!

Courtney

This day came way too soon

2010-06-02T18:14:00.000-07:00

I can't believe this day is upon me. Collins went to school / summer camp.

We thought it would be fun for Collins to join Jack a handful of days this summer at preschool. What I didn't anticipate was how lonely I would be. It is the first time I've been without him on a weekday in 19 months.

It kinda gave me baby fever { GASP }

Don't worry though! I quickly found things to get into, and I rediscovered freedom!

**** Back to Collins****
To win the heart of his teacher, Collins pick her an apple...

He thought he better taste it first...

Luckily we have an apple tree and there is more where that came from ;)

He was so excited about going. He wouldn't take his backpack off all morning. I thought he would be grasping at me, screaming... NOPE, none of that, he quickly ran off to play with his friends.

Jack was such a big help. He just took his hand and showed him all around school. Such a great big brother.

Hopefully a good education will keep these boys from having to do this later in life...

Courtney

Hooked on the weekends

2010-05-31T19:22:00.000-07:00

We went to the lake this weekend for a little R & R. It was so nice to get away and just do nothing! The weather didn't exactly go along with my tanning schedule, but it did allow for fishing...

My pro fisherman husband hooked a BIG...

Rock... ( that almost landed him in the lake )

It didn't damper his spirits though...

The lake is right where these boys belong...

How nice it is to get away!

Courtney

A comfortable change

2010-05-23T09:46:00.000-07:00

Our trip to Fairhope inspired change. I love the bedding at The Grand, and while we don't quite have the funds to live there, I thought we could bring The Grand to our house...

I decided to do away with our queen bed and go for a KING.

Of course the topper had to be a down duvet :)

The new bed change has turned our life around! Tons of room to stretch out and comfort that is off the charts. When I close my eyes, we are back in Fairhope. Brendan even plays along and brings me coffee in bed.

What a huge difference a small change makes. I love my house even more... if thats possible ;)

Our room is the place to be now.

Ohh... and the tree house... it's coming along too...

A long way from finished, but still coming along.

Brendan promises me he could finish it if I would stop adding other projects!
( I am going to try )

This superhero needs a place to hide...

Courtney

Joy

2010-05-19T18:49:00.000-07:00

Pure...

and Simple...

Joy...

Color Swatches

2010-05-13T19:49:00.000-07:00

I woke up the other morning and decided it was time for a color change.

The color of our walls was not at all the color that was on the swatch. After our room was painted, I knew it was not what I was going for. However, I have lived with it until now.

Me and the Kiddos headed to the Home Depot and picked out the PERFECT COLOR. Little did I know I would be making that same trip four times... picking out the perfect color.

I am so glad that I had my interior decorator help me...

Who knew finding the perfect color would be so difficult?!?!

I was feeling a little like this...

I painted on every wall, in ever light, and still... I found I did not like these "perfect colors"

The walls were a BIG MESS. And you know messes make me CRAZY.

So Guess who got to clean up the mess...

Poor Guy. Now I know why he ask, "What are you guys going to get into today?"

I think he wants to be forewarned! It does seem that we get into things that perhaps we shouldn't. I am thinking he might send me back to work just so he knows what I am up too.

When the cats away... the mice will play :)

Courtney

Beach life

2010-05-12T08:27:00.000-07:00

Just some pics from the beach.

It was so wonderful. It was the first time in four years that I got home from a vacation and didn't feel like I needed a vacation! The boys were wonderful, they just played in the sand for hours...

Brendan was so wonderful and allowed me to lay out and soak in the sun! Have I told you how great that guy is lately?!?!

The beaches were wonderful and didn't have a drop of oil... yet.

Pete and re-pete

ahhh... it was wonderful! We did miss home though, and actually came home a day early.

Nothing like a refreshing vacation :)

Courtney

Fairhope

2010-05-11T06:31:00.000-07:00

Last week we embarked on a family vacation. Our first stop was the Grand Hotel at Point Clear.

CAN I JUST TELL YOU HOW MUCH I LOVE THIS PLACE?!!!

Anybody who knows us, knows this is our favorite place to sneak away to. In my opinion it is one of the greatest vacation spots ever. Actually, it is Marriott Hotels number one hotel in the US. And its in our backyard... well, actually 4 hours away!! It has an amazing pool, with a huge tiki bar that has unbelievable food and drinks that they bring to your lounge chair! I would never divulge what I ran the tab up to... I haven't/won't even tell Brendan :) You know I am a sucker for room/pool service!

It has its own private beach, with full access to boats (it's on the Mobile Bay), a full bike line that you are free to use, gardens, lakes, and so much more!

It is moments from the cutest little town ever, called Fairhope.

It is a place I want to one day live! Can't wait to return.

Courtney

Birthday Boy

2010-05-09T17:07:00.000-07:00

Looks like...

Jack turned 4!

Can I just tell you how crazy we are about this boy?!

He is full of life and just the greatest kid ever! We love him so much and can't begin to describe what a blessing he is to this family.

Happy Birthday Jack!

Courtney

Mothers Day

2010-05-09T13:09:00.000-07:00

So Blessed to be a mother!

So Blessed to have the opportunity to make motherhood my career!

I love to love on these boys!

Courtney

doughnuts and goose eggs

2010-05-01T18:47:00.000-07:00

Just another post of the normal work. Our neighbor hooked the boys up with a bag of doughnuts...

Which made them VERY happy!

Collins also fell off the bed, which made him not so happy, and gave him an impressive goose egg...

Brother tried to give him a kiss to make it better. He should... he is somewhat responsible for this lovely mark. He decided it would be a good idea to hoist Collins onto our bed, just as he was almost on, Jack ran out of strength and dropped him.

Jack during art time

Right after I took this picture I ran inside for a moment. In that moment, Jack got the paint bottles, dumped them out, stepped in them, and painted his whole body. He was so proud of himself he ran through the house to show me. You can only imagine the mess I had to clean up...

NO PICTURES, I WAS TOO BUSY CLEANING!

ahhhhhh, motherhood

Courtney

Zoo Visit

2010-04-27T05:29:00.000-07:00

I made a VERY UNWISE decision to take the boys to the zoo last week. It was Earth Day and admission was half price. I assumed since it was a Thursday and everybody was at work that it wouldn't be too crowded. Well, everybody might have been at work, but everybody's kids were at the zoo! Seriously... every school and daycare in town was there. So it made for a cramped, somewhat miserable experience!
It was a very WHINEY trip. Which pretty much made me crazy! However, for a moment, at the petting zoo, there was a moment of happiness. So I was able to break out the camera and get a few shots... and that made me happy :)

Collins trying to get into the cage... it is most certainly where he belonged!

Jack was very unimpressed with the animals...

I must say the zoo is not my favorite place. It stinks and all the animals look like they are in a coma. The living quarters are entirely to small and I feel as though I am paying to spectate animal cruelty.

These were the sweetest things at the zoo :)

Courtney

Treehouse Update

2010-04-21T17:27:00.000-07:00

Well, since we spend 99% of our time outside, I haven't had much time to blog. However, I wanted to post our tree house update.

As of tonight...

All this work makes folks tired :)

The backyard has literally become playgroup central! I just can't wait for this project to wrap up so the kiddos have more to play on!

Life is so good ;)

Courtney

The walls go up!

2010-04-12T18:59:00.001-07:00

This year for Jacks birthday he is getting a playhouse. We decided this long ago, and with the date quickly approaching we decided we better get on it. Of course instead of being wise and buying one from our local merchant, I sketched out some simple plans!

I convinced Brendan to go along with my fabulous blueprints... however, I am pretty sure he is starting to regret that decision ;)

Every time he went up the ladder, Jack grabbed hold and Brendan hoisted him like a fireman. It wasn't long though before Jack was climbing up on his own ( In a way I am sure would make the grandparents {GASP} )

It is higher than I envisioned! This is the view from the top...

Look UP!

What does Jack think of this??

He thinks its basically going to be the best playhouse ever! I agree!

All this work makes Collins thirsty...

Hopefully we will get more work done on it this weekend. I'll keep you posted!

Courtney

Easter 2010

2010-04-05T18:26:00.000-07:00

HE IS RISEN!

So grateful the stone was rolled away. So grateful to be a Christian. So grateful to know Jesus.

So grateful for these guys...

So grateful I got to spend my 29th birthday squeezing these guys...

We had a fabulous day! The best part was being apart of Church of the Highlands... 20,924 attended, 3,421 got saved!!! Heaven was one big party, I am sure!

We went to MeMe's for a yummy lunch, then I got my birthday request... a nap :)

Some pictures from the day :

My Niece Callie...

Egg Hunting...

Courtney

A day in the life...

2010-03-31T11:50:00.000-07:00

...of Collins!

Collins is a boy that is full of life and always on the go!

This boy can work a tool like a man!

If only he could read the warning... DO NOT PLACE HAND ON BLADE.

He ended the day with a rollover ;)

Just a Tuesday for Collins. Who said all the fun should wait for Saturday?!

Courtney

A day in the life...

2010-03-31T11:38:00.000-07:00

... of JACK!

He is one very busy boy...

Brendan stopped by the park on his lunch break to have a picnic with us... and chase Jack around.

We are in the middle of building a playhouse and the boys are much help.

Jack warns Collins not to put his hands on the blade... you know... since there was no responsible adults around to warn him. He is such a great big brother!

Just a glimpse of what Tuesday looked like for Jack!

Courtney

A few things...

2010-03-26T09:01:00.000-07:00

A few things happening around here that make me happy!

Men working in the yard make me happy too!

Lovin' these sunny days!
Courtney

Cookies

2010-03-17T19:11:00.000-07:00

Well since the weather has been FAR TO BLAH for outdoor photo shoots, I decided to bring the camera to the kitchen.

You know, so I could capture these beauties...

And these beauties...

(By the way... those are raisins not a pile of bugs)
I made some Organic Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

{Gasp} are you really that "crunchy"???
Well, sometimes.... you know... when I want something yummy but not entirely sinful!
I know in a recent post I said I was not going to go down the organic eating path... but, I changed my mind ;)
Its actually been fun and refreshing, not a drag!
So I guess I am becoming ONE OF THOSE PEOPLE.
You don't have to tell people we are friends, I wouldn't want you to be associated with a tree hugger :)
Although, you just might like my cookies, especially with a latte ;)

The recipe is as follows. ( I used all organic products when possible, but if your not into that, conventional products will work )

Seriously, the best Oatmeal raisin cookies
Adapted from simplyrecipes.com

Ingredients

1 cup ( 2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened,
1 cup brown sugar, packed
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 large eggs, well beaten
1 Tbsp vanilla
3 cups rolled oats (We use Quaker Quick or Old Fashioned. Do NOT use instant.)
1 1/2 cups raisins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Method

1 Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease two large cookie sheets or line with Silpat, parchment paper or waxed paper.

2 In a large mixing bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add sugars; beat until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Beat in eggs. Add vanilla.

3 Mix flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg together in medium bowl. Stir dry ingredients into butter-sugar mixture. Stir in raisins and nuts. Stir in oats.

4 Spoon out dough by large tablespoonfuls onto prepared cookie sheets, leaving at least 2 inches between each cookie.

5 Bake until cookie edges turn golden brown, 10-12 minutes. Cool 1 minute on cookie sheets. Then carefully remove them, using a metal spatula, to a wire rack. Cool completely. They will be quite soft until completely cooled. Store tightly covered.

Makes about 2 dozen cookies.

Enjoy,

Courtney

The perfect day

2010-03-09T07:44:00.000-08:00

Seriously, my idea of the perfect day looks like this...

I got to eat lunch lunch with a great friend from college, then I laid out while the boys played for hours outside.

They packed all their toys to go somewhere...

We literally played till dark!

Collins was complete filth and decided to have bark for dinner...

Sweet Brendan got to pick up after our lovely day...

He didn't mind though ;)
I don't know what we would do without him. He is the best!!

After play, it was a healthy dinner, bath time, and kids asleep by 6:30.

Then I got to go work out and spend the rest of the evening with my hottie ;)

Now that... was a PERFECT DAY!

Courtney

Still here...

2010-03-05T13:17:00.000-08:00

I would blog more, but once the weather warms up we head outside!

Come to think of it... we are outside when its cold too!

Because outside makes us happy...

It gives us time to ponder...

And show off our new trick!

And a trick we just aren't tall enough to master!

(so he'll nimble on the handle bars instead)

Life is so good ;)

Courtney

Collins

2010-02-26T09:06:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness! I could just put him on a spoon and eat him!!!

Courtney

Bedtime

2010-02-18T19:36:00.000-08:00

So glad this week is coming to an end... it has been full of sickness and I am tired!

I did manage to get my camera out though :)

The boys were playing in Jack's room the other night and I captured the silliness!

The plan is for the boys to share a room as soon as Collins is big enough. Jack tried to talk me into letting Collins spend the night with him, but it quickly became clear that we were not at all ready for that!

They started "horsing" around...

...and bonked heads.

It is going to be fun to see them in the same room...one day!

Excited about this weekend when we head south to help launch Coastline Community Church, excited to get a rare break from the boys! After this week I need a break... another week in which I will not be awarded mother of the year!

Courtney

A salute to blogs

2010-02-15T06:17:00.000-08:00

I love reading blogs, and not just any blogs, I love blogs that inspire!! Blogs in which people are doing things different.

I love blogs that inspire me to be a better person.

Funny enough, the things that I use to think were crazy, I now look at differently because of blogging.

For instance... I love blogs about naturally deliveries. Is it for me??? NO WAY. But I love they are doing what they feel lead to do, despite the pain involved, and are willing to share. Do I get insulted because they go the natural way and I go the epidural way??? Of course not!! Instead I take the strength that they used for birthing and funnel it in a direction that works for my life.

Oh, and... I love blogs about organic eating! Unfortunately, I also love a greasy pizza. So while, I believe in everything organic bloggers are saying and we would be better off adapting to that lifestyle... for now its just not happenin'! Hopefully, I will take that info and use it one day though ;)

I love blogs about running, hippie mothering, photography, and blogs about cooking.

I Love informative blogs. Blogs that challenge me. Blogs that make me grow. Blogs that are honest and unashamed of their beliefs. Blogs that step on toes every now and then.

I love that through blogging, I am not who I use to be. I have taken what I've learned and grown. Things that use to insult me, gross me out, or make me {GASP}... I now do, because of blogging!

I love when people are willing to share more than their cute family pics... although I do love those!

Blogging has allowed us to share where we stand and why... how great is that?!

Not everyone can stand for the same thing. How boring life would be if we did! But, I love when people are standing for something and sharing about it.

Stand for something... and next time someone is doing ( blogging ) something your not... don't get insulted, get inspired!

Courtney

A little Bling around the neck

2010-02-14T15:04:00.000-08:00

This weekend we embarked upon the Mercedes Marathon.

We have been training for a while, although recent sickness threw us way off course. I was not looking forward to it at all once the cold weather came upon us, but I knew we had to finish what we started. Really, it warmed up quickly and was a great run. So glad I did it, so glad Brendan's sister got us into this whole thing!

We did the relay in which the 26.2 miles is split between a team of 5.

Brendan an I have found running to be a great way for us to spend time together... not as parents... but as a couple of individuals bettering ourselves. While it is hard work, anything worth doing typically is!
Wouldn't you agree we look nice with a little bling around the neck?!

... on to the next race... planning on the Music City Marathon.

" ...run in such a way as to get the prize." 1 cor 9:24

Courtney

Rest

2010-02-09T19:37:00.000-08:00

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matt 11:28

Just everday life

2010-02-01T17:32:00.000-08:00

Last week after playgroups, library toddler time, a visit to Mcwane, the Circus, a trip to the office ( chick-fil-a ), Moms night out, park time, and yard time... it hit me. Just how lucky I am!

The simple everyday stuff...

Paperboy...

I love this picture. Its what our yard always looks like...

I wouldn't trade a moment for ANYTHING!

I'm going to miss this one day...

Courtney

Our birds need Insulin!

2010-01-26T11:00:00.000-08:00

I walked in the kitchen the other day to see this...

Brendan and Jack looked up at me and proudly told me that had made a bird feeder! Umm...Sprinkles... I believe birds eat seeds?!

They both were puzzled. I think even Brendan had forgotten that birds eat seeds... not sprinkles.
Jack said, "mommy, they'll like sprinkles better".

So, they went searching for the perfect tree...

And hung it on a limb... a very low limb..

Jack was so excited...

I am thinking maybe we should have hung an Insulin shot beside it... although I did notice the next day the whole cone was gone. I am thinking a dog came by and ate the thing.

I think I will pick up some seeds next time I go to the store! And encourage a higher limb!

Courtney

Diaper Talk

2010-01-23T17:38:00.000-08:00

OK, So you are probably tired of my diaper post, but I don't care ;) I have come upon a wonderful diaper that I wanted to share with you...

They are my new Bum Genius diapers that I have been trying out a few weeks. All I can say... I am in love. These diapers put even Huggies Supreme to shame. They are so soft, super absorbant, and simple to clean. While I still love GDiapers, these are my new favorites!
They are one size, which means they grow with your baby.
The snaps adjust the size. This is on the smallest setting...

The inside, super soft fleece...

While I do exclusively cloth diaper. I came upon a killer deal on some organic disposables. I got these for $1.50 a pack!

When I pulled them out, they looked super cheaply made...

However, after trying them out, I found they work great!! Really, once again, better than Huggies Supreme.
I am a HUGE believer that organic or cloth diapering is soooo much better. Just google diaper chemicals and you will be shocked at the ingredient list.

Hope this cleared up some diapering questions, for diapering friends ;)

Courtney

Oh so Curious...

2010-01-21T08:45:00.000-08:00

about Curious George!

Very appropriate!

Trying to get a picture of your new haircut is so hard to do...

Your eyelids get soooo heavy...

You just can't keep them open...

But eventually, mom gets the shot she is after...

Collins got his cut too, and I got them both to pose for a moment!

The much needed "new do"...

Courtney

Rising Temps

2010-01-19T05:48:00.000-08:00

Praise the lord for rising temps!

This boy...

and this boy...

Are so Happy!

They are free to roam and play!

...and make basic repairs ;)

So glad for the warm up! Today we are headed to meet Curious George and have a picnic in the park!
Have I mentioned that I love being a stay at home mom?!

Courtney

Hibernating!

2010-01-08T17:23:00.000-08:00

What do you do when when it's freezing outside???

We chase each other...

We play peek-a-boo...

We are very silly...

We make huge messes...

And we show off our new diapers!!!

They are Bum Genius and we love them too!

What??? Your still into those things??? You betcha! Nothing cuter than a cotton bottom!

Courtney

Have I mentioned...

2010-01-03T18:17:00.000-08:00

I love this man!

Seriously...
He is like the energizer bunny! He never stops working, cleaning, building fires, chasing kids, cooking, waking early, grocery shopping, chopping wood, making business calls, tending to my every need, and... um a lot more. He makes me tired just watching him!

I am starting to feel bad... he runs circles around me!

Ladies keep you hands off him, He's mine!
Courtney