On second thought, don't say cheese

Like most moms I've been trying to take cute pictures of my kids for Halloween. Unfortunately, my kids don't make the cutest faces when they are yelling, "cheese" at the top of their lungs.

Gone "Full" Crazy

Alright, I guess I better admit that I am training to run a full marathon. Most people who have known me for a while have heard me say, "I would never, ever run a full marathon, because I think that's just crazy". Well call me crazy, because I'm doing it. I joined a marathon training group here in Louisiana, and the first people I ran with also confirmed this by saying, "If you're running a full marathon that makes you full crazy just like the rest of us". I figure at least I'm in good company running with them, because we are all basically insane.

I'm going to run the Texas Marathon on New Years Day. There are 10 other people in my family running the half or full marathon with me. We decided it was time to get in full training mode this week, so today I ran 15 miles, in 2hr 7 mins. I also burned 1500 calories, What!?!?! It's no wonder I'm craving a supreme pizza and steak dinner at the same time.

I'm hoping I make it to January, because I'm already burnt out of training, and I hadn't even trained hard until this week. I know it's going to get really hard, but I'm hoping it will be worth it.

Yearly Pics

Baylor and Chase had birthdays recently, so my sister, Courtney took their yearly pictures, while we were in Houston last week. My boys were all over the place. She was literally running to keep up with them, so I am super impressed that not only one, but several of the pictures turned out. I really have no idea how she did it. They were wild and wouldn't listen...as usual, but you can't even tell from most of these pictures. She did awesome. Thanks Courtney!

Halloween Candy Buy Back

Brody's work participates in Halloween Candy Buy Back. This gives children an opportunity to sell their Halloween candy. They get $1 for 1 pound of candy. When Brody told me about this I thought, why would any kid want to do that? They end up sending the candy to the troops, so I guess that may give kids some motivation to sell their candy.
If I were a kid again and was told about this. I don't think there would be any way I would give my candy to them for only $1 a pound. I would definitely try to negotiate for more money. It just doesn't seem worth it to me, unless I had a couple pounds of candy corn and dots. Then I definitely would, because those candies suck.
I was the type of child who did everything in my power to keep my candy as long as possible. I would hide it under my bed and try to eat only one a day, but truth be told I think the longest it ever last was a week.
I guess even though I would not want to sell my candy back for $1 a pound there are people who would. Last year Brody's work got almost 700 pounds of candy. I don't know, maybe I am selfish. Would you sell back your candy?

Happy Bday Chase

We had a little birthday celebration for Chase today. He was so cute and excited for his 2nd birthday with a Lightening McQueen birthday cake.

Chase

It is Chase's 2nd birthday today. Brody is out of town this weekend, so we are going to celebrate on Monday. Don't ruin the secret by telling Chase. Hopefully he won't find out, and we can pull it off without getting totally busted.
So, I know most moms are obsessed with their children, but I am totally obsessed with Chase. I think he is the sweetest, cutest thing on the planet. The thing I love about him most is the sweet, kind and loving personality he has. He was like this from day one. He has always been my snuggler and just loves to be near you. He is just a sweet, sweet little boy. He is also super easy going. He just goes with the flow and is happy to be here. He is full of love and laughter. He is always smiling and trying to make others happy.
I love you so much Chase, and I feel like you are such a huge blessing in my life. You bring so much joy to me. I love being your mommy. Happy Birthday!

That Looks Familiar

This is Baylor when he was 18-24 months old.

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This is Chase about the same age. Look familiar?

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I think every little boys go through the stage where they become so obsessed with cars they can not go anywhere without them. Whenever I go somewhere Chase, much like Baylor did, will collect as many cars as possible and shove them in his hands, under his armpits, in between his bent elbows, and in any other crevasse the arms and hands can create.