Dorminey Days

Let The Good Times Roll!!!

2012-02-15T14:31:00.000-06:00

Mardi Gras is in full swing, and the Dorminey family is learning all about it. My family came into town this past weekend, and we went to our first parade. The kiddos loved it b/c the Mystic Mutts were on parade. Yes, people dress up their pets in costumes and throw all kinds of goodies at people watching the parade. Ava and Jake LOVED it. We saw dogs dressed like Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz, lobsters, ballerinas, etc...

Now, Ava and Jake run around the house screaming Mardi Gras and throw things, usually beads but not always. If you come to visit, watch out b/c Mardi Gras is in full swing. Here are some pictures of the kiddos practicing for Ava's upcoming Mardi Gras parade at school and this past weekend.

This Is What We've Been Doing...

2012-02-06T21:26:00.002-06:00

The moving boxes are finally out of our house, and the house is semi-functional. We are getting settled in our new house and city. The children love the yard, and we play outside all the time. Here are some pictures of what our lives have been like for the past few weeks. In the last picture, Ava and Jake are showing off their dancing moves. :)

Jake's 2nd Birthday!!!

2012-01-08T22:03:00.000-06:00

Jake turned 2 this past weekend. He is talking so much and definitely has his own opinion about everything. Everyday his personality just shines. We love him so much! He had a great family birthday party on Saturday. Here are some pictures of our big boy on his b'day.

Christmas 2011

2012-01-08T21:54:00.003-06:00

We had a wonderful Christmas. It was a little bittersweet since I knew it was our last Christmas in this house. We have so many memories here, and it is hard to leave. We loved watching Christmas movies, seeing Ava sing with her preschool church choir, and spending time with our family. Enjoy the pictures!

Another Kodak Moment

2011-12-17T21:38:00.001-06:00

By the way, Johnny dressed them this day so I love Jake's hair, and the fact that his pants are rolled up to his knees. Still, Johnny gets "Daddy of the Year" for taking the kiddos to see Santa. Merry Christmas!!!

Our Family

2011-12-17T21:33:00.002-06:00

Glory Days at Auburn University

2011-11-20T21:29:00.001-06:00

This past weekend the whole family went to Auburn for the Homecoming game against Samford. The football game wasn't as big a deal to me as the alumni band that performed at half-time. This football season is the 65th anniversary of the Auburn University Majorettes. I'm just so happy that I was a part of this wonderful group of ladies during my four years in college!!! The current majorettes hosted a dinner for the alumni majorettes on Friday night, and then we all twirled together at the game Saturday.

My sweet friend, Julie James, twirled with me for three years at Auburn, and we twirled together again on Saturday. I just wish more of my majorette pals could have made it this year. I had a wonderful time, and I must say there is nothing like hearing the full band behind you on the field. Talk about an exhilirating moment!!!

Ava and Jake went to their first official Auburn football game. They did really well in the stands and had a great time. We were lucky that my parents came to the game too. Enjoy the pictures and WAR EAGLE!!!

This last picture is of one of my favorite people in the world, Ginger E., who took me under her wing when I was a freshman majorette and she was a senior. We were good friends in college and even better friends now.

Happy Halloween

2011-11-02T20:36:00.000-05:00

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-23T16:14:00.001-05:00

Johnny was off Friday so we visited a local pumpkin patch. The kiddos were really excited to select their very own pumpkins. The weather was absolutely beautiful and alot of fun memories were made. Enjoy the pictures!

A Fun Afternoon in Five Points

2011-10-18T17:49:00.001-05:00

We went to the Auburn/Florida game last Saturday night. On Sunday, we drove to Five Points to visit my grandparents Day. The kiddos always have a blast visiting them and seeing their beautiful farm. We had a wonderful visit.

War Eagle!!!

2011-10-18T17:44:00.002-05:00

An Ava Quote

2011-10-14T15:04:00.003-05:00

Ava had some friends come over this morning for a short play date. They were talking about riding tricycles, and I head Ava talking about how great she rides her tricycle. Then, she said, "I'm the genius in this family." She is so funny!

Backyard Fun!

2011-10-10T21:28:00.002-05:00

Zoo Days

2011-10-10T21:20:00.000-05:00

We went to the zoo twice in the past three weeks. The Dormineys definitely make the most of our membership. :) We were lucky to go with friends both times. The first time we met our sweet neighbors at the zoo, and the second time we went with some of our best friends from high school and their kiddos. What fun memories!!!

Best Friends!!!

2011-10-10T21:14:00.001-05:00

I love these pictures!

Our Little Ballerina

2011-10-10T21:11:00.001-05:00

Lazy Saturdays at the Park

2011-09-21T13:48:00.000-05:00

I'm a little behind posting these pictures. Since football season began, we watch Auburn football game and take the kiddos to the park on Saturdays. Jake scored a brand new tricycle recently. Although, he still hasn't figured out the correct way to pedal. He will master it soon. Ava loves her tricycle and rides it daily. Here are some pictures from a recent Saturday.

Jake is 20 months old!

2011-09-09T13:27:00.003-05:00

Our sweet boy turned 20 months old Wednesday. Here's a picture of him on his 20 month birthday. :Notice his cute hair! I meant to take more pictures that day, but this is the only one I snapped. He had just awakened to a brand new day. :)

A Morning in the Gardens

2011-09-09T13:24:00.000-05:00

The weather is finally beautiful here in Alabama so the kiddos and I spent the morning at a local botanical garden. I left the stroller in the car so Jake could enjoy running around with Ava. They had so much fun exploring the gardens. We saw turtles and fish and made some happy memories together.

First Day of School!!!

2011-09-01T11:47:00.002-05:00

Ava began 3k a few days ago. She goes to school twice a week, and she loves it. Jake began Mother's Day Out for one morning a week. Let's just say that he doesn't love school quite as much as his big sister. Hopefully, he will get used to it soon. Here are some pictures I snapped before their big first day.

We LOVE the Beach!!!

2011-09-01T11:43:00.002-05:00

Last week, we went to PCB with my family. We had a wonderful time! Ava and Jake loved the ocean this year. We built countless sand castles, flew kites, and played in the surf. Enjoy the pictures!

Five Points Homecoming

2011-09-01T11:18:00.004-05:00

Here are some pictures from our annual reunion at Five Points Baptist's Church. Homecoming is a celebration that we look forward to all year long. My grandparentst attend this church, and my dad grew up in the church. In fact, my grandfather started attending this church when he was one year old! Enjoy the pictures!

We LOVE Auburn (and Aunt Tricia and Uncle Chad)

2011-08-15T20:24:00.004-05:00

We had a wonderful, fun-filled weekend. The kiddos and I visited my Grandparents Day on their farm Saturday. I love seeing my children interact with my grandparents. Those moments are priceless! We then met Johnny at Auburn and spent the night at my sister's house(and Chad's). Ava and Jake were so excited to just be in Auburn. Ava kept yelling "War Eagle" in their front yard, and Jake just ran around with an Auburn shaker. We didn't get much sleep Saturday night, but it was worth it.

Johnny's Birthday Pictures

2011-08-07T21:46:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday, Johnny!

2011-08-07T21:42:00.002-05:00

Johnny is working on his birthday, but we managed to squeeze in a quick party with the kiddos. We have celebrated so many birthdays together. I remember our first date was shortly before he turned 18 years old. Anyway, happy birthday to my man, who I have loved since I was 16 years old!!!

Ava'a Dance Class

2011-08-07T21:27:00.002-05:00

Ava will soon begin dance class in a few weeks. I was ushered into the world of dance moms last week when I attended an open house at her dance studio. It was insane, and this is coming from a former majorette. :) Ava met her dance teacher while I was paying for all of her gear. On the way home, she kept saying "I told you. I told you, Mommy." I had no idea what she was talking about until she told Johnny that her dance teacher said, and I quote, " I'm going to be a star. I've been telling Mommy that for years!" We just burst out laughing. She says the funniest things. Maybe I should keep her dance teacher in my prayers. :)

Jake is 19 months old!!!

2011-08-07T21:24:00.003-05:00

Our baby boy is 19 months old today. Jake loves Elmo, throwing things (especially balls), and reading books. He is definitely all-boy and such a precious child. Johnny and I are so thankful God chose us to be his parents.

Dad's Birthday

2011-08-07T21:13:00.004-05:00

The two men in my life have birthdays one day apart. Their birthdays are definitely easy to remember. My Dad's birthday was Saturday, and we had a wonderful time celebrating him. He's the best Dad, and I love him so much. Here are some pictures from the festivities...

Happy Times!!!

2011-07-26T22:14:00.004-05:00

July has been a fun-filled month of swimming, play dates, and hanging out at home. Ava and Jake have both become water babies. I love the look on Jake's face when he floats in the water with his Puddlejumper (swimmies) on him. His expression is sheer joy.

Jake turned 18 months old this month. He is adding new words to his vocabulary daily. I believe his favorite words are "no" and "mine." I guess you can tell he has an older sister. :)

Ava is busy,busy, busy....way too busy to nap. She loves to complete puzzles, read books, and play with her dolls. Ava is very inquisitive these days and constantly asks me "why" questions about everything under the sun.

Here are some recent pictures of the kiddos. Enjoy!

More 4th of July Pictures

2011-07-04T21:42:00.003-05:00

Happy 4th of July!!!

2011-07-04T21:19:00.003-05:00

I love the 4th of July. I love spending time with my family and contemplating all of the sacrifices people have made for our great country. I love watching my children see fireworks for the first time courtesy of my sweet sister, Tricia, and her husband, Chad. (They didn't go over so well with Baby Jake, but Ava liked them). Enjoy all of our pictures!

We had a great 4th of July, but one vital member of our family was missing. Johnny had to work this weekend and over the 4th. We really missed him!!! Holidays aren't the same without him. Ava, Jake, and I are looking forward to spending some quality time with him later this week.

2011-07-04T21:13:00.001-05:00

Atlanta Trip 2011

2011-06-17T07:50:00.003-05:00

The kiddos and I accompanied Johnny to Atlanta this week. He went for work, and we went for fun. The whole family went to the Georgia Aquarium, which was awesome. Jake and Ava were completely captivated by all of the different sea creatures. We had a wonderful time.

We also went to Atlanta's Children's Museum. The children LOVED it. My brave friend, Kylie Little Loflin, met me at the museum. I couldn't have survived it without her. Ava and Jake went in complete opposite directions almost the entire time. Jake was especially wide open with his explorations. He would just run and run from one side of the museum to the other. The museum was great because only children 8 years old and younger are allowed to visit.

On the last day, Ava, Jake, and I spent the morning at the pool, which was fine for my waterbabies. They LOVE spending time in the water. Enjoy the pictures!!!

What could be more fun???

2011-06-10T06:55:00.002-05:00

We got a kiddie pool yesterday, and the children LOVED it. Jake kept saying "NO" when it was time to go inside. Ava was fearless on the slide, and Jake giggled when Ava poured water on him (i.e. the next picture). I thought he would start crying after she poured all of that water on his head, but he just laughed...such a boy!

Princess Ballerina Camp

2011-06-10T06:48:00.002-05:00

Our church held a Princess Ballerina Camp this week so, of course, our little princess had to participate. Ava had never taken ballet lessons before, and she loved it. She had a performance yesterday with her fellow princess ballerinas. They were adorable, and I must say Ava had good form for a three year old. I was so proud! :)

Random Pics!

2011-06-08T14:13:00.003-05:00

We have been so busy lately that I haven't kept up with this blog. Jake is 17 months old now. He climbs on every stationary object around the house. Our kitchen chairs are turned over so he can't climb on them. His favorite thing to do is climb onto the kitchen table and say "ta da." What can I say, he's a perfomer. :) Ava is becoming more and more independent. She is taking ballet classes this week and absolutely loves dance. I see dance classes in our immediate future this fall.

We are just enjoying the summer and trying to stay cool during this heatwave. Enjoy our pictures! Some pictures are from our zoo trip, which was three weeks ago.

2011-05-16T21:25:00.001-05:00

This pictures was omitted from my last entry. Here are my two precious angels!

Happy Mom's Day!

2011-05-16T21:19:00.004-05:00

Who could ask for anything more? I love every minute spent with my two precious children. Well, I would say most of the minutes. :) I just love being a mother, and I have so much respect for my mother now that I realize how difficult mommyhood can be at times.

Happy Belated Mother's Day to all of my mommy friends and especially to my mom!

Fun Times!

2011-05-16T21:14:00.004-05:00

Bad Weather and Las Vegas

2011-05-04T20:34:00.005-05:00

First, I'm very sad about the horrible tornadoes that devasted several portions of Alabama. Luckily, my family and friends are all safe and sound, but so many families have been forever changed. Johnny and I were in Vegas when the weather hit, and we felt so annoyed that the devastation was eclipsed by the royal wedding, at least it felt that way with the national news

Anyway, life goes on, and Alabama is a state in which we help our neighbors. Suddenly, Auburn vs. Alabama seems so silly now. My prayers are with all the people who were affected by last week's viscious weather.

It feels silly to post pictures of Vegas in light of things that have happened. Here they are anyway and please pray for my home state. The road to recovery will last a long time for so many towns and cities.

As for Vegas, we had a great time. We saw Cirque Elvis, the Blue Man Group, and Carlos Santana in concert. We got tickets to the latter for free. It was a good concert even though we aren't huge Santana fans. We also drove to Red Rock Canyon, which we loved. I wouldn't want to live in Vegas but visiting Vegas is so much fun!

By the way, we didn't lose much money. In fact, I won $18.00...exciting moment for me. :)

Easter 2011

2011-04-24T20:34:00.002-05:00

EGG HUNT

2011-04-24T20:27:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, our neighborhood hosted its annual egg hunt. Ava found so many eggs, mostly purple. Johnny and I had to coax her to pick up other eggs besides purple. Jake did really well finding eggs too. We've been practicing for weeks. :) Enjoy the pictures!

A-Day!!!

2011-04-17T21:21:00.002-05:00

We took Ava and Jake to their first football game at Auburn on Saturday. Yes, it was only A-Day, but to them it was a huge deal. As soon as Jake saw the football players run on the field, he started smiling and clapping. Miss Ava loved dancing in the stands and cheering. We made alot of fun memories at the game with my family. WAR EAGLE!!!

Cutie Pie!

2011-04-17T21:20:00.001-05:00

A Trip To The Farm!

2011-04-17T21:14:00.004-05:00

Last Friday I took Ava and Jake to my Grandparents Day's farm. Ava LOVES going to their house. She likes running around outside and seeing the cows. This visit Jake discovered the joys of their farm as well. We had a great visit, and we're already looking forward to our next visit.

More Birthday Pictures!

2011-03-12T13:42:00.002-06:00

Our Little 3 Year Old!

2011-03-12T13:35:00.002-06:00

Ava turned three years old a few weeks ago. I guess turning three is a big deal because she had two parties. Her family party was princess themed, and some neighborhood children attended her Dora party on her actual birthday. Ava was so excited during both parties. She is such a big girl. I can't believe our precious daughter is three!

An Unexpected Visit to the Zoo

2011-01-31T15:11:00.002-06:00

Ava, Jake, and I were so excited as we left our house this morning. We were meeting some dear friends and their children at the McWane Center. We haven't seen these friends in forever so we were all pumped. Drama happened on I-65 when little A became carsick. I had to pull over at the Galleria and clean her up. I was afraid to take her around the other children, just in case, she was coming down with something. She kept saying that she felt fine, but I just didn't want to chance. So....to calm down an almost three year old, appease a one year old, and keep my sanity, we went to the zoo. It was a fun morning, and I think I salvaged the day for the kiddos.

I felt so adventurous we even went out to lunch just the three of us. Sidenote...what do you do when your almost three year old is going to the potty at a restaurant, and your one year old crawls under the stall and tries to leave? Yes, I dealt with that dilemna too. I'm really tired! :)

Gorgeous Day!

2011-01-31T15:07:00.002-06:00

We had beautiful weather this past weekend so we took the children to the park. Here are some pictures of our fun afternoon.

Vegas Bound!!!

2011-01-30T16:10:00.002-06:00

Ava is potty trained, and Jake is off formula. What better way to celebrate than a trip to Las Vegas!!! We can probably fund our entire trip with the money we're saving. :)

Ava's Prayer

2011-01-19T15:27:00.001-06:00

Ava likes to pray every night during dinner. Here is her prayer from last night: "Dear God, please heal my Ariel doll and make my family taller." It was all we could do not to laugh! :)

Jake's 1st Birthday!!!

2011-01-09T21:12:00.003-06:00

Jake turned one on January 7 so we held his birthday party on Saturday afternoon. We kept the party kinda small by having only family. Of course, how many friends does a one year old really have? Anyway, Jake enjoyed himself alot. He didn't know what to think of his cake at first, but with big sister's help he soon dug in with a fork. He also didn't care for opening presents, but he did like playing with all of his new toys. We had a wonderful afternoon celebrating our precious little boy. He is such a miracle!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-03T15:35:00.003-06:00

We had a wonderful Christmas. My sister and her husband have joked with Johnny and me that Jake is a Nick Fairley in training. It was only fitting that they gave him an Auburn jersey with Fairley's number. :) Also, Santa left a BIG gift in our garage Christmas morning. Ava and Jake now have their very own "jump-a-lene." At least, that's what Ava calls it. They both love to jump on it. Well, Ava jumps, and Jake kinda bounces while sitting.

The big news over Christmas is Jake began walking. Now, that he has figured out walking, he goes everywhere. No more crawling for him! :) The Dorminey household is finished with the holidays and now, we are ready for birthdays. Jake's 1st birthday is Friday, and Ava's 3rd birthday will be in February. Bring on the cake!

Afternoon Fun!

2010-12-20T16:30:00.000-06:00

Zoolight Safari

2010-12-20T16:22:00.003-06:00

We had a wonderful time at Zoolight Safari this year. This event is a Christmas tradition in the Dorminey household. We chose one of the coldest nights to go for some reason, but we had a blast. Anyway, Ava loved it as usual, and Jake enjoyed his first experience with seeing thousands of beautiful twinkling lights.

Please excuse Ava's gloves. We forgot her gloves at home so she wore mine. At least, they matched her coat. :)

Time for a haircut???

2010-12-20T16:20:00.003-06:00

Jake's hair was finally cut this past Friday. For some reason, I forgot to take an after picture. Just know it looks so much better!

'Tis the Season

2010-12-07T20:53:00.001-06:00

I thought about sending this photo out as our Christmas card, but I just couldn't do it. The caption could have been "Wishing you a terror free Christmas." Poor Jake!

Sibling Fun

2010-12-07T20:31:00.002-06:00

Since the weather has been so cold, I've been searching for some fun indoor activities for an 11 month old and a two and a half year old. I decided to use the bathtub crayons on the windows, which actually worked quite well. Ava and Jake had a fun afternoon, and it was fun to watch them make beautiful artwork together.

Day Family Reunion

2010-12-07T20:24:00.003-06:00

We celebrated three wonderful Thanksgivings with our family. The day after Thanksgiving we went to Five Points for a Day family reunion with all of my aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents. We had a lovely time catching up and introducing Baby Jake to his relatives from North Carolina.

We also celebrated my grandparents' wedding anniversary. They have been married 65 years and are going strong. What role models I have in my family for the true meaning of love and family! I love you, Grandmother and Granddaddy! Happy Anniversary!

Baby Jake with Aunt Tricia

Halloween 2010

2010-11-07T21:03:00.003-06:00

Halloween was big in our house this year. We had a baby dinosaur and an Ariel ballerina in our household. You can tell by Ava's face that she definitely enjoyed herself!

Pumpkin Patch

2010-11-01T21:14:00.002-05:00

I'm a little late posting these pictures, but since we have experienced a crazy October, I think I'm doing pretty well. My arm is still in a cast, and it feels better everyday. I'll find out what the doctor says Wednesday. Wish me luck! I'm tired of this cast!!!

The Zoo

2010-10-10T21:11:00.004-05:00

I haven't blogged in a while b/c it is a pain to type with one hand. Yes, I broke my arm last weekend. I fell down my neighbor's stairs while holding Ava. She was fine, but I broke my ulna bone in my left arm. Of course, I'm left handed so this has been quite an issue. Due to my broken arm, I wear ALOT of hats these days. Hopefully, I'll get the cast off the first of November. If it wasn't for Johnny and my parents, we would not being doing well at all. It is so hard to be a mommy of two little ones with only one arm. Nevertheless, we're making it and not letting my broken arm spoil our fun.

Hence, the zoo pictures. :) We went to the zoo Friday and had a wonderful time. Ava's favorite animals were the giraffes and spider monkeys. I'm not sure which animal was Jake's favorite, but I know he took a great nap.

Ava and Jake

2010-09-29T10:23:00.003-05:00

War Eagle!!!

2010-09-29T10:13:00.002-05:00

A few weekends ago, I had my annual girls' weekend with my AU friends. None of them live in Alabama so I only get to see them once or twice a year. I definitely enjoyed spending time with my "girls"and going to the game. We won in overtime against Clemson. War Eagle!!! It was a very memorable night, and I feel so blessed to have these women in my life after becoming friends 13 years ago.

Jake is 8 months old!!!

2010-09-07T20:33:00.004-05:00

I can't believe Jake turned 8 months old today. Here are some fun facts about Jake:

---He is a big boy! Jake wears 12 months and some 18 months clothes right now.

---He loves baby vegetables but is not a huge fan of the baby fruits.

---Jake loves to play with his ball and read his Elmo book.

---He lights up when he sees Ava, and she can make him laugh better than Johnny or me.

---Jake is my snuggle baby and loves to be held. I'm afraid those days are coming to an end

because he is pulling up on everything.

---He has also begun to clap when we say "yea." He learned this gesture just in time to cheer on the Auburn Tigers. :)

---Jake is a joy, and Johnny and I feel so blessed that God chose us to be his parents.

Ist Day of MDO

2010-09-02T20:32:00.002-05:00

Ava was all smiles for her first day of Mom's Day Out. She loved her "school" and really enjoyed seeing some of her old buddies from last year. Here she is before going to school.

Book Signing

2010-08-29T20:29:00.002-05:00

Friday night we attended our brother-in-law's book signing at the Alabama Booksmith. God and Football: Faith and Fanaticism is a marvelous book, and we're so proud of him. The book signing was quite exciting, and Chad will embark on a book tour this fall. Ava and Jake are so proud of their "Uncle Chad."

On a family note, our weekend went downhill after Friday. Ava was sick with a high fever but seems to have rebounded. Now, Jake has a fever and keeps tugging on his ear. I believe a doctor's appointment is in our immediate future.

A Fun Morning

2010-08-29T20:24:00.004-05:00

Johnny was off work Friday so we had a family outing to an area park. Ava loved seeing the fish in the pond and swinging. She still is not a huge fan of slides, but she will swing for a long time. Jake also joined in on the swinging action and really seemed to enjoy it, too.

More Family Fun!

2010-08-21T14:47:00.002-05:00

This morning we packed up the kiddoes and went to a farmers market. I found some good finds, and Ava enjoyed playing at the neighborhood park. Jake chilled out in his stroller, and Johnny enjoyed looking at all of the houses' interesting architecture. A good time was had by all!

Family Fun!

2010-08-21T14:41:00.002-05:00

Last night we went to the Barons baseball game courtesy of Johnny's company. His work rented a skybox, and we enjoyed catching up with some old friends. Ava really loved playing with the other children. It was a very fun night!

Homecoming!

2010-08-10T06:31:00.002-05:00

Ever since we were little girls, Tricia and I have always counted down the days until Five Points Baptist Church's Homecoming. It is kinda like one big family reunion since we know all of the families who attend church there. We attended Homecoming this past weekend and had such a fun time catching up with everybody. Enjoy the pictures!

Ava & Dillon

2010-08-10T06:26:00.002-05:00

Last week my dear friend, Andrea, visited us with her adorable son, Dillon. As you can see from the pictures, Ava & Dillon got along like two peas in a pod. I thoroughly enjoyed her visit, and I can't wait to see her again. We have been friends for almost 13 years, and we always pick up right where we left off. I'm so glad she made the long trip to visit.

McWane Center

2010-08-03T15:42:00.004-05:00

We went to the McWane Center for Johnny's last vacation day. Ava particularly loved the Mr. Potato Head exhibit and the aquarium. Jake hung out in the Baby Bjorn carrier and enjoyed watching all of the sights. A good time was had by all!

Beach Trip 2010

2010-08-03T15:15:00.002-05:00

We had a wonderful time at the beach. The first half of our vacation was just the four of us, and then my parents joined us for the latter part of our trip.

This picture was taken on our last day. The kiddoes were not very interested in our mini photo shoot.

We made many memories at the beach. Ava loved searching for seashells and splashing in the pool. Jake was content to kick back in a pool float.

Ava

2010-07-22T20:31:00.005-05:00

Ava's pictures were so much better when she wasn't running around everywhere. Here are a few pictures that I was able to take when she was still for a few seconds.

Here are some fun Ava facts:
She still LOVES Dora and the Disney Pricesses.
Her favorite toy to play with is her doll house.
She is extremely verbal and loves to sing songs.
She has memorized several books and "reads" them to herself (which is fun to watch).
She enjoys swimming at the pool with all of her neighborhood toddler pals.
She loves to swing but is not so crazy about slides.
She is such a joy in our lives!

Jake's Photo Session

2010-07-22T20:24:00.004-05:00

One afternoon I grabbed the camera and tried to take some cute pictures of Jake. I must admit he is much easier to photograph than Ava since he is not mobile just yet. I took pictures of him wearing his christening outfit, as well as, a baby cap that belonged to my dad.

Some fun Jake facts:

Jake loves to play with his Vtech Ball.

He is rocking back and forth of his knees.

He has not met baby food that he doesn't like.

Jake loves music.

He babbles /baba/ and /mama/.

He loves to laugh at his big sister.

He is the sweetest, cutest baby boy, and our lives are so much better because of him.

Things I Never Thought I Would Say

2010-07-22T20:16:00.002-05:00

"Do not ride your baby brother like a horse."

"Do not stick the electrical chord in your brother's mouth."

"No, we do not make Jake roll around the den."

"Jake does not want to eat your Aeriel doll."

But it is all worth it when Little A says, " Jake, you're my precious darling. I love you!"
Melts my heart everytime!

Jake is 6 months old!

2010-07-08T20:17:00.003-05:00

Jake turned 6 months on July 7th. One of my friends told me that your second baby's milestones sneak up on you quickly, and she was exactly right. I can't believe our little guy is 6 months. At his checkup, Jake weighed 19 lbs. 5 oz. so he is not missing many meals. He was such a trooper during his shots and only cried for a few minutes. Of course, big sister, Ava, was in the room and kept telling him to "Chillax Jake." What would he do without her? :)

I would post some sweet pictures of my little man at his six month b'day. However, we have a new laptop, and we haven't transferred all of our pictures over to it. I'm sure we'll figure it out soon.

Jake's Christening

2010-06-28T20:48:00.002-05:00

Jake's christening took place this past Sunday. The day was made so very special since both sides of our family attended the service. Jake did really well during the service. He whimpered after the baptism because his back was turned to us. He wanted to keep us in his eyesight at all times during the ceremony. I couldn't help but get teary eyed.

We love this little boy so much and feel honored that God chose us to be his parents. He is such a blessing!

Father's Day 2010

2010-06-21T14:20:00.004-05:00

A New Mode of Transportation

2010-06-17T21:10:00.007-05:00

Since we have two in diapers we always have a big, empty diaper box somewhere in the house. Yesterday, Ava wanted to pretend like it was a ship. She colored it purple, her favorite color, and then got in her boat. She loved the idea of putting Jake in the boat. Here are a few pictures of their fun time together. Jake wasn't quite sure what to think. :)

A few more Ava quotes:

"Daddy goes to work...Mommy goes to Target."

"Daddy needs to wash our grass." Ava said this statement when she saw our neighbors sprinklers.

"Mommy, I have issues." She always says this when she can't get her shoes on properly.

We were in the car yesterday, and she heard the song "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun." As soon as she heard the first few notes of the song, Ava said, "Mommy, this is my song." So true!

Family Fun

2010-06-13T20:55:00.001-05:00

Our Visit to Five Points

2010-06-13T20:48:00.004-05:00

On Thursday we visited my Grandparents Day at their farm. Ava LOVES going to Five Points and talks about all of the baby cows she will see. It was such a hot day that the cows were hard to find since they were either standing in the pond or under a tree. Nevertheless, we had a great visit with my grandparents. I hope we can see them again really soon!

Splish Splash

2010-06-13T20:46:00.002-05:00

Busy, Busy, Busy

2010-06-03T06:22:00.002-05:00

These past few weeks have been pretty busy in the Dorminey household. We participated in our neighborhood yard sale, threw my Mom a surprise birthday party, and went to the beach. Unfortunately, Johnny was not able to go on the beach trip because he had to work. My parents, Ava, Jake, and I had a great time. Although five hours in a car with a two year old and a four month old can be pretty exhausting! Enjoy the pictures!

2010-06-03T06:16:00.001-05:00

Seriously...How Could This Baby Not Win the Parents Magazine Cover Contest???

2010-05-10T20:49:00.004-05:00

I entered Ava and Jake's pictures in the Parents Magazine Cover Baby Contest a few weeks ago on a whim. Jake made the first cut, and I was notified that he was in the running with like 1,000 other babies, which is really not that bad since on their site there were over 18,000 entries. Anyway, I was already miffed with the magazine b/c they did not choose my beautiful Ava's photo, but that is another story.

Anyway, Jake wound up placing inthe 700s. I mean are there really 600 and something cuter babies than this one? I don't think I'm biased at all. I may just have to cancel my subscription. :)

Mother's Day 2010

2010-05-10T20:41:00.004-05:00

Mother's Day was big in our household this year. I awoke to breakfast and gifts waiting for me. We had Johnny's family over for lunch, and we also saw my family later that evening. What a wonderful day to spend with those I love the most! My two greatest blessings call me "mommy." Well, Jake will join Ava with calling me "mommy" as soon as he can talk. :)

A Visit to My Grandparents' House

2010-05-10T20:37:00.002-05:00

Blue Eyes

2010-05-03T06:42:00.002-05:00

Friends

2010-05-03T06:34:00.002-05:00

My good friend, Emily, visited us this past weekend with her adorable children, Jack and Hannah. Ava loved having her "friends" over, and they all played really well together. Emily and I went to undergraduate and graduate school together so we have been friends for quite a long time. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing her and her sweet children. We will have to get together again soon!

Sibling Love

2010-04-25T20:39:00.001-05:00

The Zoo

2010-04-25T20:33:00.002-05:00

Since Friday was such a beautiful day, Johnny and I decided to take Ava and Jake to the zoo. After several diaper changes and stopping to feed the children, we finally saw the animals. I believe Ava's favorite animals were the monkeys. She also liked playing in the water zone. As for Jake, he peacefully slept most of the afternoon away in his baby carrier. It was a long, tiring day, but we had the best time just spending time together as a family.

Ava and Jake

2010-04-25T20:29:00.003-05:00

Ava and Jake at the farm

2010-04-09T07:57:00.005-05:00

My Dad and I took the children to visit my grandparents Day this week. I feel so blessed that my children know both sets of my grandparents. It is such a gratifying feeling to see four generations of family in one room. This trip was Jake's first visit to the farm. He enjoyed sleeping in the house, but little Ava could not get enough of seeing the baby cows. She loved being outside. Maybe she is a country girl at heart!

The Masters

2010-04-08T13:54:00.002-05:00

Johnny and our brother-in-law, Chad, scored tickets to Monday's practice round at the Masters. They followed Tiger Woods on a few holes and saw many famous golfers. I think going to the practice round was the equivalent of Disney World for both of them. Enjoy the pictures!

Easter 2010

2010-04-07T14:36:00.004-05:00

All smiles after the Easter Bunny came to visit!

Papa and his great-grandson

Granddaddy and Jake

Most of Ava's pictures have Minnie Mouse in them. It was a gift from the Easter Bunny, and Ava couldn't part with her. She even took her to church.

Our Family

Mia and Ava

Our Little Guy

2010-03-29T20:30:00.003-05:00

Jake is cooing and smiling alot these days. He is such a happy, content baby. Ava gave him a babydoll in one of these pictures. I guess that is life with a big sister!

Disney Live!

2010-03-29T20:26:00.002-05:00

Ava and I saw Disney Live this past weekend. It was such a fun show, and she really enjoyed seeing Cinderella and Tigger. Here are a couple of pictures from the show.

Is it finally spring?

2010-03-23T14:53:00.003-05:00

We had some nice weather this past weekend so Johnny and I took the children to the park. It was Jake's first park experience. You will see in his picture that he slept through most of it. Ava enjoyed finally being able to play outside. It has been such a long, cold winter. Hopefully, spring is here to stay! Enjoy all of the pictures!