Raelee Gets Braces!

On October 29th, Raelee finally got what she had been begging for...braces!  She wants straight teeth so badly and even had three extracted the week before. On January 3rd, she had her bottom braces put on, as well. So far, she’s handling it like a champ!  It won’t be long til her smile is gleaming!

(Temporary Backup) Happy 8th Mason!

Mason begged for a Lazer Tag birthday party this year, so he got one. “Boys only,” he said. 😁 He invited boys from his class and of course his cousins. They had a ball at Lazer Blaze. He had Nash, Darius, Landon P, Landon, Jackson, and Eli. Love watching this little guy grow up. He has the biggest heart, loves basketball, and is growing in his faith. He is the most compassionate little person I’ve ever met. Love him so. ♥️

Christmas with the Collins

All the cousins alternate hosting Christmas on the Collins’ side and this year was Ann’s turn. It was fun!  We had a variety of soups, sandwiches and dessert. Our $10 gift exchange continued and Mason was surprised to get a snow sled!  It was creatively wrapped by cousin Bruce so he never guessed what it was!

A little birthday wish for Mason and Raelee while we were there on the 29th

Happy 14th Raelee!

Raelee is 14!  I still can’t believe it!  This year has been full of excitement. With a XC season on a high school team, her last year of middle school, and braces. She earned straight As her first report card this year and is highly antcipating high school. She had her share of disappointments too. She tried out for the volleyball team for the second year in a row.  And for the second time, she didn’t make it. It’s the hardest to watch your baby be down about who they are, knowing how amazing and talented they are in the eyes of so many. She is resilient!  Bounced back and continues to work hard at what she’s meant to do- RUN. We love her heart, her strong mind and growing faith. Stay true Rae. We love you. 

Birthday Celebration 2018!  Meatballs, bagel bites, rotel dip and an ice cream bar. Minute to Win It silly games and a photo booth. Simple, yet happy!

Picture perfect outfit picked from Forever 21❤️

Mary Poppins!

We’ve seen several movies as of late, but this one for me, was the most anticipated. We loved it!  This break has been full of eating, shopping, and having fun together as a family. Raelee and I also got our second ear piercing the day after Christmas for Raelee’s 14th birthday.  

Lazer Tag War

Mason is really into anything laser tag and nerf gun-related. He was having a little fun with Jordyn playing with his new Lazer Tag pack Christmas night. Love winter break with the kids!  

Christmas Day 2018

We always head to Grammy and Poppy’s on Christmas Day. It’s wonderful seeing all the cousins, aunts and uncles. Daddy, once again, didn’t disappoint with his magical Santa appearance. The kids’ eyes were wide open with amazement and wonder. Precious sight!  

Christmas Morning 2018

Christmas morning is always so much fun. There is so much excitement and anticipation leading up to these moments. It’s one of my personal favorites as a parent.  This year’s big gifts included an Apple Watch and denim skirt for Raelee; an iPhone 8 and Chi straightener for Jordyn; and a Nintendo Witch for Mason. Boy were they pumped!

Christmas Eve- At Mamaw and Papaw’s

Christmas Eve this year was pretty amazing when you consider daddy was able to join us for the first time in over 20 years. Typically, daddy would work until 4:00, then drive down to meet us there for about an hour before we headed home. The kids had an amazing time. And, of course, we did our food exchange, with the nightly routine of Chex mix in front of “A Christmas Story” after sending the kids off to bed. It’s the little things. 

(Temporary Backup) Breakfast With Santa- Galt House

Since Daddy has been off during the holidays, we tried to make the most of the weekends, when he would typically be working. We booked Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, December 22nd, loving our time together. We enjoyed some time eating a delicious breakfast buffet, pictures with Santa and then some time at the mall (with Mason’s favorite being the LEGO store). This has been one of the best Christmas seasons on record. Relaxing, festive and just plain fun!

Mason’s Winterfest at CES

Mason had his winter festival at school on Friday, December  14th.   This time, however, we brought along Jackson and Eli so their mommy and daddy could celebrate Aunt Melissa’s birthday. Mason sang songs with his classmates; favorite being “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas.”  Adorable!

Last Day to Winter Break!

The girls love when they get to dress “out of uniform” and they didn’t seem to disappoint in the festivities at MWMS, leaving 2018 in the holiday spirit. I love their festive personalities and their joyful little spirits!

Christmas 2018 #1- Hawkins’ Side

This year a couple new traditions began:

1) Celebrated Christmas at Aaron’s Bar, Flywheel, Sunday, December 16th

2) Marty took on his first act as Santa. Poppy retired from this gig after 40+ years

Daddy rocked it out!

MWMS Cheerleaders Head to State Plus...Happy 17 Years to Us!

While the cheerleaders did not receive a bid to state, and were declined a video bid submitted after their loss at regionals, they were asked to attend after another small squad were forced to drop out. There were 17 squads that competed at the Alltech arena (and that was only THEIR division) making for a very long day. Despite not placing at state, Jordyn used her frustration to fuel her fire to work harder and decided to be a part of Bullitt Athletics’ mid season team. Her hard work is already paying off!

After a long day in Lexington, daddy and I were able to make a little time for ourselves, celebrating 17 years together.  On tap?  Roc and Pie Kitchen!

Sam the Elf is Back!

Sam came back to our house a few days early, this holiday season. Mason was thrilled!  He even brought a couple small gifts for the kiddos to enjoy. As soon as Mason’s feet hit the floor every morning, he seeks out Sam. It is a precious time we will always cherish. ❤️