Parents Just Don't Understand or Do They?

My parents (I'm guessing late 80's, early 90's by the fab attire) or lovingly referred to now as "Gigi" & "Papaw." 

Just this week, James has begun to understand the word "No" and just this morning, gave me a look like "Why No?" Isn't it amazing when you become a parent how much you appreciate your parents and begin to understand their love, sacrifices and infinite wisdom.  Amazingly, they do understand! :-)  Loving, caring parents are a gift from God and I am blessed!  Although parents consist of both Mama & Daddy, I reserve the rest of my post as a tribute to my mother.  As you scroll below, I ask you say a special prayer as she continues to battle cancer.  Please pray for a miracle of healing. --Kim

Mama (1972)

Mama & Me (1978)

Mama & Me (1980)

We skip a few years ahead. Mama & Me, Race for the Cure, Little Rock (I think '97/'98?)

Mama & Me, Gulf Shores, (1999)

Mama & Me (2005)

9 months & counting...

James had his 9 month check up Friday and all is good!  Randall & I can't believe he's almost a year!  He weighs 21.5 lbs. (50-75th percentile) & is 28.5" in height (50th percentile).  He is eating so good I'm having a hard time keeping up and even eats peas & avocado now!  As the previous post described, he said "Mama, but, yes, he did start with "Dada." (As Uncle Ronald pointed out, no post when he said Dada...I guess that shows which parent does the blogging around here. :-) )  We think he is also saying "backpack"....for Dora the Explorer, of course.  He is very mobile and everywhere these days; crawling very fast, cruising the furniture, climbling on things and reaching things we never thought possible.  Needless to say, I've had to rearrange a few prettys.  We so enjoy watching all his new discoveries!  Below are some "everywhere" pics.

If you're wondering...Dada put on that diaper. :-)

A Day that will Live in Infamy (at least for me)!!!

James called me "Mama"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Why Utensils When You Have Two Hands!

James is very much enjoying the new skill of feeding himself.  Toast, pancakes & eggs are great, but cheese seems to be his favorite.  Yes, the cottage cheese is messy but, you're only little once!

4th of July

Randall and I have been watching a movie miniseries, John Adams, coincidentally finishing it as we listen to Sparks in the Park last night. Wow, what an endeavor our founding fathers embarked upon and at such an early age! These men were not professional revolutionists, but statesmen in their 30s & 40s with families and everyday problems, much bigger problems than we could ever imagine. Our lifestyles are very comfortable compared to the conditions of their day. As we celebrate July 4th, I am struck by a John Adams quote: “I would to God there were more ambition in the country….by that I mean ambition of the laudable kind, to excel.” As parents, teachers, and humans wouldn’t it be wonderful to instill in our children and ourselves the desire to excel; not to sit by idly as our great nation is vastly changed. Our founding fathers’ original idea included morals and values, those derived from our Maker. I am thankful today for their contributions that allow us to live in this free society, but am aware as history teaches, “change” creates great cause and effect. We must stand up for our beliefs and excel in that pursuit for our future generations! Thanks Daddy for the great movie recommendation!

On that same note, check out Hobby Lobby/Hemisphere's Founding Father's July 4th Ad:
http://www.hobbylobby.com/assets/pdf/holiday_messages/current_message.pdf
How refreshing to see a company stand up for their beliefs without the worry of political correctness.  Anything I need that can be bought there will be.  It's just too bad they don't sell groceries.  :-)

Baby Alivia

Our newest niece & James's new cousin has arrived. Baby Alivia born
yesterday, weighing in at 7lbs, 13oz & 21 inches in length. She is
very sweet and we are proud to welcome this new addition to our family!

Good Clean Fun!

James Thomas graduated to the adult bathtub this week and is having a ball!  Needless to say, he is all boy!  During our first big bathtub experience he decided to go face first and drink the water.  Scared me to death, but not James, he's all smiles and splashes!  :-)  Here are a couple pics....