The Barfield Boys

Mario and Luigi

2009-11-01T15:14:00.000-05:00

Halloween was fun for the boys! Again they teamed up as a duo and they had so much fun playing the part! It was an exhausting weekend between parades at their schools, parties, fall fests and trick o' treating. The boys had fun, received lots of treats and had a memorable Halloween:)

October Update!

2009-10-25T13:56:00.004-04:00

We are always busy in October...Getting back in the groove of back to school life..time just fills up! Griffin turned 6 with a fun pizza party with family and friends and then a few hours at an arcade with a couple of his buddies.

Not only has Griffin been busy with his friends, school work and gymnastics..but Kevin did a soccer clinic that he enjoyed. He loves school and is an active little booger!

We did have a day off and the boys, with Grammy and Tyler and Ian, heading to an apple farm for some apple picking! Good times.. Each of them had pumpkin picking trips with their classes. I had a great time with Kevin as he rode the bus for the 1st time. It is such a treat when I can have one on one time with each of my boys!

Back to School!

2009-09-10T15:36:00.004-04:00

Well we are back in full swing of the school year! Griffin started Kindergarten at the public school and everything went swimmingly! Kevin started today at Leapfrog..and so far so good:) I finally get some free time to get in shape, work a bit, and grocery shop by MYSELF! Yippee! A few tears were shed as Griffin boarded the bus...and as I dropped off Kevin.. I felt a bit lonely without my little shopping buddy. I have to say it is a bit bittersweet...

Crayola Factory!

2009-09-10T14:59:00.003-04:00

My last outing with the boys this year before school started was the Crayola Factory! Another fun day with Tyler and Ian...and Grammy too! We had a good time trying out our artsy skills..but the boys really enjoyed the Canal Museum. It was a great day to end my summer with my favorite boys!

Beach and Pool Club Fun

2009-09-10T14:38:00.003-04:00

Always a treat seeing our cousins in the summertime. Things get hectic during the school year...so this summer we tried to see Tyler and Ian as much as we could! We had a great time at the beach one evening celebrating Tyler turning 12, and another afternoon at the pool to cool off.

Kevin and Griffin had a great summer at the pool! Griffin is a super swimmer and he wants to do swim team next year. Kevin is getting there and learning to stay afloat! Didn't get too many pics of them in the pool..too worried to take my eyes off of them! Personally I had a great summer with my boys!

Fort Mill Fun!

2009-08-11T21:35:00.004-04:00

I think the tradition of Myrtle Beach is done...we had a great time in Fort Mill..visiting Todd's hometown. We could see more family and friends and thanks to Alan our accomodations were GREAT!! We had a wonderful time on the lake..the boys loved it. We loved seeing some of our college friends and of course seeing the family was great! A trip to Carowinds didn't hurt..the boys loved Nick Jr. Land..and the water park was a great time for all.

We have had a wonderful summer with the pool, camps, day trips and playdates..however nothing compares with seeing family and friends we haven't seen in a long time.

Curious Kevin Turns THREE!

2009-07-06T14:30:00.003-04:00

A week of festivities for Kevin as he turns 3! We started off with a party with his friends at our house. It was a Curious George day! Monkey Tails (hot dogs), yellow hat shaped grilled cheese and a very fun cake that he loved! We played hot banana, pin the butterfly on George and the bubble table was a hit! On his actual birthday we had the family over for pizza and cake. He loved his big wheel, bean bag chair and leaf blower! Kevin received great gifts..he is a lucky boy! We are lucky too...to have such a curious little boy!! Kevin is our little monkey, that is for sure!

Griffin Graduates!

2009-06-12T10:33:00.004-04:00

Leapfrog Learning Center has been a fun 3 years for Griffin...now he is off to Kindergarten in the fall. Graduation was great! They sang songs, received diplomas, and did a jump rope routine since they all love to jump rope! Of course I shed some tears when they recited a great poem about growing up...he was great and had a voice that carried throughout every song! We are so proud of Griffin! He is an eager learner with a fun sense of humor!

The Greatest Show on Earth

2009-06-12T10:25:00.002-04:00

The Boys had a great time at the circus! Griffin loved seeing the dogs do tricks and Kevin liked the tigers! Other than a snow cone falling in kevin's lap it was a successful trip. Love these ages...so much to do and I know it will go quickly!

Gym TIme!

2009-06-12T10:16:00.003-04:00

Kevin's days are winding down at Gymboree. He has loved his time with Miss Ellen and all his friends! He starts camp soon so Gymbo will come to an end! Griffin has been doing gymnastics with his school and he has really improved! I think he will continue in the fall, since he is on the small side..this may be the sport for him! These pictures were taken at his last lesson where he got a medal that he was very proud of!

Mother's Day Tea

2009-05-07T10:10:00.003-04:00

It was our last Mother's Day Tea at Leapfrog with Griffin...in the past I haven't brought Kevin..but this year he came and loved it too. Kevin is going to Leapfrog in the fall so he was excited to be included. I treasure these moments! I got a lovely plant and a funny survey about me. Didn't know my favorite color was purple, or that my favorite food was grilled cheese! Too funny...

Easter Sunday

2009-04-12T21:32:00.004-04:00

Today was a lovely day....a bit cold for Easter but sunny at least! We started the day with finding our Easter baskets which were filled with books and chocolate and some crafty things....We then went to church and had a great service and then headed to Helen and Rob's for brunch and an egg hunt. Good times were had by all...we ate too much, but everyone had a good time! We missed Mom and Dad as they were traveling on the other side of the world..but we had a great day!

Easter Weekend FUN!

2009-04-11T14:23:00.003-04:00

To say that Griffin is 5 and a half and we have never dyed Easter Eggs is an embarrassment! But this weekend we did it for the 1st time! I was always nervous with his egg allergy..but we had no issues..but we did have fun! I think I was the messiest of us all! They were very proud of their creations.

Since we were in all day yesterday, we got out today. We went to a local museum at the community college, http://www.monmouthmuseum.org/home.html. The theme was "Under the Sea" and the boys really enjoyed it! Pirate ships, fishing, dress up, climbing lighthouses...good times! Love the ages of my boys! Now if we can just get potty-trained...

ARUBA!

2009-04-07T13:49:00.002-04:00

You just can't beat a week in Aruba! We had a great time...and we took Nana with us too! The weather was the best we have seen in the Caribbean...ever! The boys loved the pool and Griffin really brushed up on his swimming..no ARMBANDS! WOO HOO! Kevin enjoyed the iguanas roaming around and Griffin enjoyed the movie nights with the other children! Todd and I enjoyed a night alone at a great seafood restaurant on the beach! We all loved the lazy river... here are some lazy pictures of us by the pool, in the pool, and just having a memorable time!

Snow Day

2009-03-02T15:49:00.003-05:00

"In like a lion" with a 10 inch snowstorm in March! The boys time outside was short lived. Griffin said there was too much snow and Kevin was not happy with his gloves! However I managed to capture some shots. Griffin did some exploring and Kevin decided to do some yard work! I think this is the most snow Kevin has ever seen. He liked only walking where shoveling had happened. Here are some shots that showed our SHORT time outside!

Kevin's 1st Shave..

2009-03-02T15:37:00.003-05:00

Ok maybe not his real first shave! We got him a shaving kit for Christmas and he gave it a try with daddy as they were shaving together! He is such a hoot. Whatever Daddy does...he has to do it too!

Bedtime Stories

2009-03-02T15:24:00.003-05:00

Bedtime stories in the Barfield House has changed a bit. Griffin reads to Kevin most nights and I captured a few pics. So sweet...don't know how much Kevin likes Griffin telling him how to sit still, but nonetheless it is very cute! Griffin has a bit of his teaching mama in him!

Valentine's Day Play

2009-02-15T15:43:00.004-05:00

Phew...it has been a while! We are still here..just busy doing everyday things! I took some great pics on Valentine's Day that I wanted to post. We had a really nice lunch and then went on to paint pottery for me! Griffin and Kevin made me a mug with their hand prints on it which I will treasure forever! Can't wait to see how it turned out after it gets fired up in the kiln! When we came home we had a fun day of hide and seek (Kevin's favorite game). However I think Griffin and I had the most fun because we understood what to do! It really was a fun day.

Christmas Eve and Day!

2008-12-31T11:37:00.003-05:00

What a wonderful Christmas we had. For the 1st time Nana came from SC and it was a lot of fun. We all enjoyed having Nana here for the holiday. The boys enjoyed their presents, it was a big DS Christmas and Kevin loved his remote control Excavator from Uncle Chris...as well as his drive-thru McDonalds kit...he is a bit obsessed with the headset! The boys were so fun, no tantrums or meltdowns...what a bonus:) All toys were shared and of course Santa was good to me too!

Griffin's School Show

2008-12-22T11:02:00.001-05:00

Here are some pictures of Griffin during his school show..they sang quite an assortment of music..and some was not easy! The first year in preschool Griffin didn't move or sing, last year he was sick and this year he was GREAT! Bellowing out every tune:)

"The Adventure"

2008-12-08T16:03:00.003-05:00

Disney on Ice did not disappoint! Griffin kept calling it "The Adventure" The boys had their first ride on the train which they loved. Kevin kept thinking it was time to get off when the train stopped and Griffin can't stop talking about going on the train again in the day...so he can see where he is going! We had a great night seeing the show. Griffin was thrilled with the Disney Cars performance..very cool seeing a bunch of cars on the ice, his eyes didn't leave the ice! Kevin didn't move...mesmerized is the word I would use! What a fun night, and we didn't use a stroller!! How fun as we see our little boys becoming quite independent. These little outings are such a perk in the job of a mother!

Preparing for Santa

2008-11-30T21:10:00.003-05:00

We got a few cute pictures of Griffin this past weekend. One was talking to the elf on the shelf, who he and Kevin have named "Zane". I think he was giving Zane the daily report. The other 2 pictures of Griffin were taken as he wrote out his list for Santa..I love 5 year olds!! Such a fun and precious age!!
If you were wondering what the "elf on the shelf" is check out the website..elfontheshelf.com. We are enjoying Zane so much!

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-11-28T20:09:00.003-05:00

This year we stayed in NJ for Thanksgiving and had a really nice relaxing day! Just a few pics to share...Kevin played with my Nephew's puppy Copper, and Griffin was glued to his Nintendo DS with big cousin Ian. Kevin loves dogs, but again, with Griffin's allergies we just won't be able to have a dog.

Lollipops and Peanut free...

2008-11-01T14:50:00.004-04:00

We had a fun Halloween...I didn't get the best pictures..but I know they had fun! Kevin was Lightening McQueen and Griffin was part of the Pit Crew. After school we went trick or treating with Tyler and Ian. Tyler was a Hobo and Ian was a Sumo Wrestler..what a funny blow up suit! They both looked great. They were so sweet to let my boys go with them and their friends. Then home we went for pizza and more treats. All Kevin wanted was lollipops..he would unwrap b/4 he got to the sidewalk and then go to the next house get another lollipop and give me the used one...yummy, thanks Kev! While Kevin was enjoying his "yoyee pops" Griffin would get annoyed if he was given something with peanuts. I said to be grateful and I will exchange "peanutful" for "peanut free"...I love peanuts! LOL..

The Jacket that Griffin is wearing in the nighttime picture was Todd's as a child...it has all sorts of patches on of different car makes. Griffin thought he was hot stuff! Halloween is a tough holiday with Griffin's allergies..but I think everyone had a great day. Now I will gain weight as I eat all of the peanutful items!

It is time to....

2008-10-30T12:32:00.002-04:00

Carve a PUMPKIN! Just a couple of pictures to share as we carved our pumpkin this year! An apple corer does wonders for a fun mouth! Enjoy and Happy Halloween:)

Oceanport Parade!

2008-10-26T12:50:00.002-04:00

Look out...here comes Lightening McQueen and his Driver....Oceanport had it's 1st parade this year and it was so great. However we did have a pouter...thanks to Griffin. But what a beautiful day to walk and catch up with friends! A great start to Halloween festivities! I will get some better pictures on Halloween so you can actually see their costumes!

Scootering...

2008-10-20T12:09:00.000-04:00

Griffin received a scooter for his birthday and he is a champ on it! We took a nice walk the other day and I thought I would share some shots. The picture of Kevin and I...Griffin took it! Well Done Griff!

No Cake Here!

2008-10-16T11:28:00.000-04:00

On Griffin's official birthday we had a take-out by request from Olive Garden and Oreo Ice Cream Sandwiches! They were yummy and great to put a candle in. We always try to be creative since Griffin can't have eggs. Ice Cream cakes can be tricky with other allergens hiding. We had a nice quiet night. I still can't believe we have a 5 year old!

Pumpkin Picking School Trip

2008-10-15T12:57:00.003-04:00

Today was a great day for picking pumpkins and hayrides. It was a bit too warm for my like 78 degrees, I like picking pumpkins while wearing a sweater, not shorts! Griffin has been having some asthma issues and up in the night a lot, but he wanted to go. So we had a great hayride which the boys enjoyed and then picked pumpkins. Good times, and nice memories with my boys!

Griffin at Gymnastics

2008-10-15T12:35:00.003-04:00

After our dabble in Taekwondo this summer Griffin said he wanted to try Gymnastics. So he goes every week with his school which is great and he really enjoys it! His favorite thing to do is trampoline, and since the summer we have seen much improvement!

Griffin's 5 Year Old Birthday Party!

2008-10-12T19:20:00.003-04:00

Good Times were had by all for Griffin's 5th Birthday Party! We had 16 children at Swingset Planet and everyone had a great time! Other than my nephew getting a concussion and many band-aids being put on...it was a good time? When we left Griffin had no idea his cousin was taken to the hospital! I loved seeing Griffin with all of his friends, what a nice group of children! I LOVE this age! Ian is doing much better and Griffin is eagerly waiting his "real birthday" on the 16th!

"Big Bed"

2008-09-20T19:44:00.003-04:00

This is a post I should have done a while back. Kevin moved to a "big bed" in August and he loved doing it. I just thought I would post some pics so everyone could see how excited he was! Any visitor we had he had to take them to the "big bed". He is a very proud and happy little boy about this milestone...he loves being "yike Doddin" (like Griffin).

S'mores...

2008-09-08T09:14:00.002-04:00

We had a great night last week celebrating our nephew Ian's birthday. I can't believe he is 8! He was the one who was 3 months old at our wedding! My brother Chris and his girlfriend Christine were here for the weekend and we had a great time! We had a great time making s'mores in the backyard...Some cute pics I wanted to post.

First Day of Pre-K

2008-09-08T09:07:00.002-04:00

Do you love the look I am getting in this picture? Griffin is in school 4 full days this year..and he loves it! After one day he moved to Kindergarten math! This little boy of mine loves to learn, we are so blessed! He comes home full of stories and dirt! Love little boys!

Storybookland...Round 2

2008-08-26T16:21:00.004-04:00

Good Times!
Oh No, Griffin is driving!
Inside Cinderella's Pumpkin
The boys!

Since we had such a fun trip to Storybookland last year..we went with Zachary and Ben again. The boys were great and so were the rides! Everyone had a great time and many memories were made. Since my friend Elizabeth is expecting #3 I had to go on all the rides...some went on a little too long for my liking. I even got to go the ferris wheel twice ( oh joy)! The things you do for children! Thanks Fitzgeralds for another fun trip!

Beach Days are Ending...

2008-08-26T16:02:00.003-04:00

Chasing on the beach
My Boys!

We had a nice beach day a few days ago...the boys are getting easier and easier...and watching them is so fun! I try to tell Griffin how lucky he his to live 5 minutes from an ocean!Here are some pictures of our time on the beach. Kevin wouldn't touch the sand on Memorial Day and here he is playing in it! AHHH progress...

The Pool...Griffin swimming!

2008-08-26T14:12:00.003-04:00

We have enjoyed the pool a lot this summer. Griffin is officially a swimmer. From the start of the summer he has come a long way. We went from no pool ( he could only swim where swim lessons took place, a 4 year olds way of thinking) to swimmies on his arms and hanging out on the steps to jumping in with nothing and swimming all over the place! We are so proud of him. Of course the bribery of a webkin was helpful! Kevin on the other hand is not afraid of much..he jumps in with nothing...of course we are there to catch him!

Beach Concert

2008-08-14T13:30:00.004-04:00

Last night we had a great time at the beach. Our church got together and ate dinner on the beach and listened to a live band as the sun set. It was great! Lots of children playing and some great fellowship! The picture of the flag has Griffin sitting underneath it...so cute! Good times had by all!

"Getting Cozy"

2008-08-14T13:20:00.002-04:00

Just a couple of cute pictures of our boys. Griffin and Kevin love our bed..no idea why..but it is such a treat for them that after "tubby" they come and "get cozy" in our bed. The boys have been very sweet together lately..I think it is because Kevin is really saying a lot now and they can chat together, there isn't a lot of frustration anymore. I have to capture the sweet times! LOL

It is August!!!??

2008-08-14T13:05:00.002-04:00

Where has time gone? Just some quick updates on what we have been up to. Griffin is a camp 2 full days and loving it. I am trying to prepare him for the 4 full days he will be starting in the fall. In between we are heading to the pool and we started taekwondo. We have been doing that 3 times a week and he really likes it. So we will see where it takes us in the fall with our schedules! I will post pool pictures another time. Griffin is swimming without any help and it is great! This is such a fun age seeing all of his milestones. Amazing how time flies!

North Myrtle Beach

2008-07-12T15:47:00.004-04:00

We're back! Good times in NMB were had by all. I tried to get a lot of pictures..but I guess chasing a 2 year old prevented me from taking more than I would have liked. We had fun visiting family and friends, and catching up with everyone. Griffin had a great time on the beach as usual...and Kevin was not wearing sand socks by the end of the week! That is progress!! The food was great...too great that i need to starve myself now! Here are some pics of us at the beach and enjoying the pool with our friends from Wake (thanks David and Christi for having us for the day:)

Heading to North Myrtle Beach

2008-07-03T13:39:00.001-04:00

Happy 4th! We are heading to NMB for a week. We are looking forward to seeing our SC family. We will have pictures up next weekend of our news! Hope everyone enjoys a long weekend!

Kevin Is 2!

2008-06-26T15:28:00.002-04:00

It's official, Kevin is 2! Can't believe it. We had a nice day. Some friends came over to play in the backyard and partake in #2 donuts! There were a hit. After a birthday nap (as Griffin called it) my family came over for dinner and cake! We had spaghetti and meatballs, his favorite. It was a fun day! He enjoyed his new water table, trampoline and his little soccer uniform from his cousins!

Sesame Place!

2008-06-22T09:38:00.002-04:00

For Kevin's 2nd birthday we decided to take him to Sesame Place. He was in awe. He is a Ernie and Bert fan, and he enjoys Elmo too. We think he enjoyed this more than a 2nd birthday party! It was a beautiful day and a fun day out for the 4 of us! I can't believe he will be 2 on Thursday..we will blog after the family party on Thursday!! My baby is a little boy now!!

Like Father, Like Son

2008-06-20T09:20:00.002-04:00

Kevin does not leave Todd's side when mowing the lawn is involved.. I thought these pictures were too cute not to share. Griffin was never like this so we find it very fun to watch!

Memorial Day Weekend

2008-05-25T10:33:00.002-04:00

We had a busy weekend mulching, weeding, watering and planting....however in between we did barbeques and a picnic on the beach. It was a beautiful weekend and it was great getting our house in order for the summer! Kevin wasn't too happy on the beach...don't know if it was the sand, wind or eating there....oh dear we are going to have a rough summer living by the beach! Griffin can take some great pics...he took the one of Todd and I...I am thrilled that the warmer months are here!

Sweet Face

2008-05-10T10:22:00.001-04:00

We don't capture this sweet face of Kevin's much because we call him beast. He is a happy child and so fun, but he is into everything! Here he is sitting still, and looking sweet...can't believe he will be 2 next month!! He still has his sweet baby face, so i had to capture it!

Mother's Day Tea

2008-05-08T10:05:00.000-04:00

Griffin and I had a nice "tea" at his school. He was so grown up serving me and sitting with me. We sat with his friends and had nice one on one time together. Here are a couple of pictures!

The Boys 1st Trip in NYC

2008-05-07T20:19:00.004-04:00

I know, we live an hour a way and Griffin is 4 1/2 and this is his first trip?! It will not be his last, as we drove out of the city he sobbed! He didn't want to leave New York and our friends David, Katie and Dawson. David is a friend of Todd's from high school in SC. We went to visit he and his family. Dawson will be 2 in September so he is close to Kevin's age. We had a great time in Central Park with the kids...so retro and very cool! Thank you to David and Katie for having us...we hope they come to visit us at "the shore" this summer. Here are some pics of our great day in NYC!

"How About We Come Back Another Day"

2008-04-17T20:45:00.008-04:00

This is what Griffin said as we packed up and left Universal Studios in Orlando. I love how children have no concept of time, travel and how far things are from us without the help of an airplane. We would like to go back another day because we all had a great time. Todd and I enjoyed seeing the boys react to the rides and characters and enjoying the pool and each other. The boys had a great time swimming, experiencing new adventures and smiling everyday! Griffin loves Dr Seuss Land and Kevin lit up when he met Barney.
Sea World was a lot of fun, we got to pet penguins which Griffin really got a kick out of. He said, "I'm not allergic Mom!" Griffin and Kevin were so good on this trip. I always seem to have a story on our trips, thankfully there were no tragedies! Here are some pictures from our trip...I felt like a kid all over again!

Swingset Planet/Aquarium

2008-03-30T21:29:00.003-04:00

I go to these places with my children and they are brilliant! I think, "Why didn't I invent something like this?" My boys had a ball at Swingset Planet. Thanks to my friend Rachel she told me about this place and we all went over break. This place is a warehouse that has 4 or 5 huge swingset/clubhouse contraptions to play on. The boys and their friends had so much fun! I have to say that Kevin and Griffin are really starting to play together which is so nice. Griffin starting to accept him as a friend and someone to play with and Kevin wants to do everything Griffin does..They are so fun to watch together! Here are some pics..it was hard to catch them as they ran the entire time! Some aquarium pictures are included too! We are going away to Florida next week so I will update more after that.

Easter

2008-03-30T21:03:00.003-04:00

Our Easter was really nice. We stayed here in NJ, and the boys had a great time from finding their baskets to finding eggs to roller skating in basements! It was a restful day with family. Here are some pictures of the boys with their cousins Tyler and Ian.

Long Month=Busy Month

2008-03-30T20:45:00.002-04:00

Sorry we have been so out of touch! We are all healthy and well...most importantly, just busy! WE saw "Sesame Street Live" with our friends Zachary and Ben. Kevin didn't move and squealed with delight the entire time. Griffin enjoyed it too...just not as much as Kevin. Kevin was a trooper, when we got home I took him to the doctor and he had a double ear infection! You never would have known...here are some pictures of our fun time at the show. In the one picture you can only see Kevin's profile...if you look closely he is perma-grin!

Finally!

2008-02-22T20:31:00.004-05:00

I am not a HUGE snow fan, however I did want one day of playing in the snow with the boys. Todd had to work, but Griffin, Kevin and I had fun playing in our 3 or 4 inches...it is now slush! Oh well it was fun while it lasted. Last year we didn't have much snow, so Griffin never really enjoyed it. The years before that he hated it! This year he had a ball! Kevin enjoyed the garage more! You will see in one picture he wasn't a big fan of the tube ride! Poor little guy, I think he must have more southern blood in him and Griffin is a bit more yankee blood. Enjoy the pictures of our fun time in the snow.

The Children's Museum

2008-02-04T20:55:00.001-05:00

We had a fun day trip recently to the NJ Children' s Museum...Here are some fun pics of our day out! The boys had a blast!

If only he could use the bathroom...

2008-02-04T20:49:00.001-05:00

Kevin seems to want to do everything Griffin does. Kevin found Griffin's underwear and here he is! Griffin helped him put them on. He thought he was hot stuff! He is a big fan of Diego and Blue these days. He grabbed these out of the clean laundry and insisted on being like "Doddin" aka Griffin.

Rainboots

2008-02-04T20:39:00.000-05:00

Who knew that little boys would get excited over shoes? It was a rainy day last week and Griffin has been wanting rainboots. So out we went to use some Christmas money (thanks to our Cousin Marie and Steve) and we bought the boys rainboots. Griffin got camouflage and Kevin got frogs! Kevin walks like the tinman in them, but any chance they get, they wear them!

Our Cheeseheads

2008-01-23T20:46:00.000-05:00

Sadly, The Packers will not be in the Super Bowl, but it was fun while it lasted. Here are some shots of the boys, Tyler included enjoying the game last Sunday....before the score changed....I wish I had a better picture of Kevin in his Brett Favre jersey that has been handed down by his cousins...but you get the gist!

"Playing Movie Theater"

2008-01-23T20:29:00.000-05:00

I never knew you could play movie theater....but you can! Griffin had his friend Trevor over today. It was kinda quiet in the basement so I went to check on them...thinking they were into something. As I go down the stairs it is dark...now I am thinking someone will jump out at me...since I can't see I hear a voice "please no talking, we are playing movie theater" I praised them of course for being such good boys...all of a sudden I become a waitress. Griffin says, "hey mom can you make us popcorn?" Good idea, I say...so off I go and make them a small bowl of popcorn each. Then Griffin says, "Mom, popcorn makes us thirsty, could we have some juice?" Who needs a stairmaster when you are racing up and down stairs playing waitress? Anyway the boys had fun playing movie theater. This is new for Griff, we went and saw our first movie on Sunday, "Veggietales, The Pirates who don't do Anything". I don't think he blinked for the 1st 20 minutes! Very cute flick!

News of the New Year

2008-01-23T20:12:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! Been a bit out of touch, but not much to report on. We are all well and happy. Thought I would send a picture of the boys playing together. We still have our sharing wars but Griffin is really starting to realize that we gave him a playmate! Kevin wants to do everything Griffin does and he just looks up to him in so many ways. I wish you could have heard Kevin laugh...he was so happy to be able to do what Griffin did.

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-28T18:45:00.000-05:00

Phew...It is sad to say, but I am ready for the holidays to be over..is that bad? I am pooped! We all had a wonderful Christmas with many fun presents and special memories made with family. We hate not being able to share the holidays with our SC family but they are so generous and understanding about the boys being home for Christmas!

The boys received an Arctic Cat, power wheels ride on! We thought Griffin would like it more than Kevin, not the case, Kevin wouldn't get off of it to open Santa's gifts. The car was from us, with other bits and bobs, and I received a new camera and MANY other treats from Todd and my family. We are so fortunate to have so many blessings!

Here are some pictures of Christmas Eve at our house and then Christmas at Helen's. Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! We will continue to keep you all posted in 2008!

Kevin goes to see Chuckee!

2007-12-17T11:21:00.000-05:00

We are not big Chuckee Cheese people, we go maybe once a year, however the boys love it!! We went with some friends this year as a fun Christmas playdate. Kevin has never been, well he loved it! Just wanted to share some pics of our fun day out with James and Catherine!

Tis the Season

2007-12-17T11:03:00.000-05:00

Tis the season for many church happenings! These pictures crack me up because we have Griffin singing in the little children's choir (run by my dad, Pop) and then we have some other pictures in the nativity play. The choir pictures are so angelic of Griffin and then we have him picking his nose at the nativity play!! Take a close look, his back is to the camera! I had to share these, so typical of a 4 year old! However he isn't a nose picker!! Any child that could walk was able to be in the play too. So Kevin was a sheep, a lost sheep, but nonetheless, a sheep. Neither of my lambs wanted to wear their hat, so it is hard to tell what they are! He wandered quite a bit, so Todd was the overgrown sheep on the alter! Thanks Todd!! This is how we spent our 7 year Anniversary! Seven years ago it was a beautiful service, now my husband was taming the flock! Oh how times change, Merry Christmas!

Who am I Tutoring?

2007-11-20T20:43:00.000-05:00

As you may or may not know I do tutoring on the side to make some fun money. It works out usually because Todd can get home to help out with the boys while I tutor, well not tonight! I have to say my boys were so good. They just wanted to be part of it all. Kevin watched and Griffin helped Jessica with the math manipulatives...what a hoot! I am so happy that the parents of these students of mine are so understanding!! Had to share this cute picture!

What's Happening?

2007-11-20T19:54:00.000-05:00

Well life has been a bit crazy with all the hustle and bustle of the fall season! Nana came for a visit during Todd's birthday, poor guy never seems to remember how old he is turning...anyway we had a nice visit with Mary, didn't do much, but she just wanted to spend time with the boys.

ICE CREAM!

My son is 4 and has never like ice cream, well that is no longer!! Every day he asks for ice cream!! FINALLY! I still have to look at ingredients with this new obsession b/c eggs are in it!! So his favorite is cookies and cream and I thought I would add a picture of him enjoying his new love!

PASTA!

I swear that sometimes Kevin is part Italian...He ISN'T, however he loves anything italian!! So here he is eating baked ziti...he ate his and then finished Griffins! No wonder I ate pizza my entire pregnancy!

Larry and Bob

2007-11-01T11:21:00.000-04:00

The boys with their cousin Ian
Griffin and Zachary
The only picture of them together!

Phew....I have to say I am glad that Halloween is over! The boys had a great day. We started off at Griffin's school for a parade, went out for lunch with Grammy and then had rest! Griffin's friend Zachary came over we did some trick or treating and then took a visit to Aunt Helen's to see Tyler and Ian. Back home for dinner and more trick or treating with our neighbors! Phew....what a great day. Every house we left, Griffin would then yell...."next house, let's go!" Kevin wanted to join in the fun, but we would have only done 3 houses without the help of the wagon. So Kevin did a few homes, and enjoyed his lollipop in the wagon.

Let's see Griffin was called a green m&m, a pickle and a zucchini, Kevin was a called a pumpkin! Are pumpkins red? Put it this way, not many people have heard of Veggie Tales. The boys had fun and that is all that matters...so here is Larry the Cucumber and Bob the Tomato!

I Would Like to Introduce "Ken"

2007-10-30T21:14:00.000-04:00

Here we are carving our 1st pumpkin. I am finding this year that Griffin being 4 is really starting to get stuff. He was so excited about carving the pumpkin with Daddy. Here they are working on "Ken". Griffin named him that as we put him outside. He didn't want Ken to face the road he wanted to look at him from the door on the inside. I think he has a new friend! Kevin was lurking around while this was going on, knowing he was missing out on something. Trick or Treating should be fun since he really is enjoying all the fun things about being a kid! The other day he told me he will be 10 soon like his cousin Tyler, I told him there is NO RUSH! Enjoy being little, I know I am enjoying it all over again with these little boys of mine!

Back in the Groove

2007-10-30T21:07:00.001-04:00

It has taken me so long to post because I was away with my college girlfriends. I went up to the Finger Lakes in NY and what a great time! I needed the break and thanks to Grammy and Todd it happened! The boys were so good while I was away and the smiles when I came back made me melt! Thanks Elizabeth for a great time, here is a picture of me and the girls outside a winery...where else?!

Griffin is FOUR!!!

2007-10-16T21:38:00.001-04:00

Amazing how fast time goes....Griffin turned 4 today and he was such a good boy. He listened, behaved, shared, loved and played all day! He is such a sweet little boy, I know I am biased, but he is just a wonderful little boy. He was so grateful for his party and gifts. Tonight when we were putting him to bed he said "I am almost 5 now". This is a little boy who didn't want to be 4 last week. I told him, "Don't grow up so fast, enjoy it Griff!" I then

went to tell him how fortunate he is to have such nice friends to share his day with, and he said, "I am a lucky boy right mom?" I look at these pictures I say "Absolutely!"

He had a great day at school and then we prepped for his 20 friends to come for a party. The children had a ball, they bounced in the bouncy house, played pin the funnel on Thomas, they enjoyed getting tattoos and they all enjoyed hitting a pinata! It was such a fun party, and thanks to all of my great friends and family, clean up was bearable!! Not sure how crazy everyone was about my whistle, but hey it is a train party and it worked getting the children rallied up! Here are some shots from our fun-filled day! Thanks to everyone who helped me out!!

Love the one of Kevin giving Griffin his Birthday kiss, Griffin sleeping with some favorite gifts, check out the tattoo on his arm...and of course the whistle shot is a classic!

Kevin's 1st Hayride

2007-10-16T21:21:00.000-04:00

I love this sweet face!

This past Saturday we took a family trip to the Pumpkin Patch. The boys enjoyed the hayride and Griffin enjoyed picking out our family pumpkins. Kevin enjoyed walking while the ride was moving, a little exhausting but fun! It was a couple of hours out of our weekend but it was my highlight! I love being with my boys! Here are some pics of my cute men!

Griffin Enjoying Soccer

2007-10-11T19:13:00.000-04:00

Thanks to my friend Allyson, I got Griffin involved in a USA (United Soccer Academy). He goes for an hour a week and learns skills. He seems to enjoy it. Thanks to Aunt Helen we have the cute soccer shorts and shin guards, however on Griffin they are knee/shin guards, he's got short legs! So here were are right b/4 nap time for Kevin, don't worry the lovey (blanket) got washed when we got home. Whatever works to make it through. It is so fun watching Grififn work at something and enjoy it!

My Treasures!

2007-10-11T19:00:00.000-04:00

I treasure these times with Griffin, because I realize he is growing up and our afternoons in the future will be doing homework and running all over town. So Griffin and I have time together in the afternoon to play games and such while Kevin naps. In these pics were are working on puzzles and making sentences. He is so funny with a fun sense of humor. We had such a good time making funny sentences....then Kevin wanted to join in.. Kevin too is not so much a baby anymore...oh how I treasure these times!

Gymboree with Kevin

2007-09-22T16:24:00.000-04:00

It is our second week at Gymboree and Kevin is having a ball! I always did music classes with Griffin since that was more his interest, well climbing and dancing is more Kevin's interest. He is like wrestling an alligator! So even though it is his second week he has mastered everything in the place...He is so much more outgoing than Griffin, I love how they are both so different! I also love having this one on one time with my baby! I look forward to it each week, he is a gem!

"I Want to be a Teacher"

2007-09-13T15:02:00.001-04:00

This week Griffin has been on a new kick. He wants to be a teacher. He loves school and he is beginning to read everything. Today he came down to the basement to tell me he was reading to the kids upstairs. I was a bit perplexed so I went upstairs and there he was reading to his trains. Later in the day he and Kevin were getting ready to have a bath and he was sitting on my bed with Kevin showing him the book and telling him to "sit on his name!" in a very stern voice. This is what his teacher says to the children in class at circle time. Of course Griffin is glued to his name and NEVER moves!
Well later in the day we had a bedtime battle and I told him that maybe his "friends" would like to hear a story. So, he lined up Blue, Clifford, Mickey, Wishbone, a couple of bears and of course Lamby and "played teacher". I had to capture this...it is precious! I told him I was a teacher before he was born and he didn't believe me!

By the way Kevin is doing fine...into everything...he will be my next blog when i capture him being mischievous!

Griffin is growing up

2007-09-08T12:21:00.000-04:00

Just had to share a couple of pictures of this past week. The first one is of Griffin as he goes off to his 2nd year at school. He goes 3 mornings a week. After he went 2 days I told him on the 3rd day that we were going to school again...he said "Oh WOW, I love school!" He is my son, I always liked school! Of course I dressed him in the 1st picture, however this morning when I was out the 2nd picture HE dressed himself and he was so PROUD. FYI, he was wearing a striped shirt inside out and checkered shorts. At least it was all blue! When I got home he asked, "Are you proud Mommy?" Obviously I was so proud a I had to take a picture and share it on the blog! He is a hoot.

Labor Day was Busy!

2007-09-04T11:37:00.000-04:00

What a busy weekend we had! But it was great to end the summer in so many ways! We had a great time at a 1st birthday party for our friend Catherine (Chrissy's daughter), went to the beach, the circus, and of course barbequed! Fun weekend had by all. Here are some pics, I think my favorite is Kevin experiencing corn on the cob!! The one of Griffin sleeping explains how active we were!!

Sunday Sobriety

2007-08-27T13:47:00.000-04:00

picking up bottle caps??
Playing in the basement
setting out the spread!

A long standing tradition in our family has been Sunday Sobriety. We all meet up (the Birns, Parkes' and Barfields) for a night to catch up before the work week starts. We have no idea how long this has been going on but it is a nice night with family where we all touch base and see one another and catch up on the past week or the week ahead. The children play and see one another, the adults have some beverages and eat a nice dinner...whether we grill or order out it just matters that we are together! It is hard to do it every week with all of our schedules but we try to make it happen! Here are some pictures of our most recent Sunday Sobriety (don't ask how we came up with the name?!)

Tyler Turns Ten, Kevin Consumes Cake

2007-08-16T11:22:00.000-04:00

These pictures are too fun not to post! We had a great time at my sisters for dinner and cake. Kevin really enjoyed the cake and I had to share these pictures. I guess his 2nd birthday will have to be a red velvet cake! Thanks Helen and Rob!

COUSINS!

2007-08-16T11:08:00.000-04:00

We are so fortunate living close (8 minutes) to my sister's children Tyler and Ian. Tyler will be 10 tomorrow!! Time flies...however it helps me soak up all my minutes with Griffin and Kevin because I realize how fast time goes. Ian will be 7 next month. There is an age gap (9 years with Kevin and Tyler) but you would never know it. The 4 of them are so fun to watch. I had Tyler and Ian over this week and even though there are age gaps you would never know it by looking at these pictures. I had to share them. I love that our boys can be close by to one another, that was one thing we always missed out on being so far from our cousins who were in England!! Tyler and Ian feel like my own somehow...so they will be on this blog quite a bit! Enjoy

A Day at the Spray Park

2007-08-16T10:57:00.000-04:00

The boys and I went with some friends to a spray park. They had such fun. Griffin used to be so timid when he went to these types of places but he is really coming out of his shell and becoming a big boy. That is his new line, "I am a big boy now". Kevin just enjoys anything we get him involved with. He is such fun and not afraid of anything!! I love watching my little boys interact!

Summer Splashes

2007-08-12T14:37:00.000-04:00

Today we took a break from the pool and ocean and had a good time playing in the backyard. Kevin enjoyed the sprinkler attachment and Griffin was a big fan of the slide. The boys had such fun playing together. Griffin is so sweet to Kevin (at times) and Kevin seems to do his own thing. Griffin kept telling Kevin to come in the pool, however Kevin thought it was more fun stealing Griffin's juice, or playing in his play house. He is into everything! I love the picture of the 2 of them eating lunch at the table together...no more pulling the highchair outside! Kevin is becoming a LITTLE BOY!! They are so fun to watch.

Pink Donuts

2007-08-05T11:26:00.001-04:00

Pink Donuts are a big hit in our house! With Griffin's allergy issues we found that pink donuts from Dunkin Donuts don't have eggs...Griffin was pumped! So now on weekends Todd always seems to find a way to get Griffin a pink donut. Well this weekend Kevin had his 1st one...we think he liked it....don't you agree? I love silly traditions like this and it always make me smile when Todd has a coffee for me!

Storybook Land

2007-07-31T09:56:00.002-04:00

The boys and I had a great day out with our friends Elizabeth, Zachary and Ben to Storybook Land. What a sweet place for children. It is all about famous fairytales with rides and attractions for children 5 and under. The boys enjoyed the day out with their friends...Griffin is not a fan of anything that spins around but if it involves trains or cars he was all over it! Of course Kevin enjoyed it all....the rides, the food and being with friends!

And So it Begins....

2007-07-30T21:13:00.001-04:00

We were recently in North Myrtle Beach, SC visiting Todd's family and we had a fun time! The boys were great. Griffin and Kevin loved getting to know their Southern roots and meeting some family. We enjoyed nights out and yummy southern fried food! Good times!