The Gaskins

First Church Performance

2012-02-15T09:54:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday Presley played the drums and sang in his first church performance. They were all so very cute and it was funny to watch these little boys play the drums! Here are a few i-phone pics. I really need to get better about taking my camera. I rely on my phone way too much.

I will spare you the video ;)

So excited to bang his drum.

What a pro!

Taking it all very seriously...

All smiles when he is done!

I love that he is now really excited about his Sunday School class and all his nerves have passed.

He is such a big boy now.

Posing.

2012-02-09T13:12:00.000-08:00

Lately when Presley sees something cool or neat he wants to have his picture taken in front of it. Usually a big truck, monster truck, or firetruck is involved. Notice a pattern? Little boys and their trucks. Either way, it is pretty funny to see the things that he thinks are so cool.

Here is P at Christmas posing in front of a monster truck that was in the local parade.

He thought this was the coolest truck ever!

Here is P posing in front of a horse or donkey (who knows) playing a guitar at the Opryland Hotel.

He thought this was so funny!

Jason and I crack up at his camera smile and the way he tilts his little head back.

A big big bus. Doesn't get any better than this!

Cuteness.

2012-02-09T12:58:00.000-08:00

Here is some Thursday cuteness!

Cowboy P.

My Current State of Affairs

2012-01-31T12:35:00.000-08:00

Ok, I stole this post from Heather Skaggs who also stole it from another blogger! I just thought it was a cute idea so I decided to do one for me and for Presley. Here ya go.

Thanks Heather ;)
Current guilty pleasure: sleeping in on Saturdays.

Current nail polish: Back and forth between OPI Brake for Manicures & OPI Privacy Please.

Current play list: Coffeehouse on XM.

Current read: Just finished Heaven is for Real. I highly recommend the adult and children's version. I just started the Love Dare along with The Message which is a really great bible that is written in lamens terms.

Current drink: Water, Water, Water and more Water with lemons.

Current food: bananas. Just want to eat bananas. And pop-tarts.

Current favorite show: Revenge, hands down.

Current wish list: a healthy baby.

Current needs: faith and patience (and sleep).

Current triumphs: Presley becoming potty-trained (almost;)) We are so close to being fully trained.

Current Indulgence: long bubble baths before bed. Actually, this is nothing new.

Current blessing: a new baby Gaskin!!

Current excitement: Shopping and eating this weekend in Atlanta. It's the little things.:)

Some Silly P pictures.

We save all of our money. Why? Presley keeps saying when its full we are going to Wal-Mart to buy a firetruck. Another one. Santa brought one and I know for certain that he got 2 others for Christmas as presents.

It's fun to do things in your underware like playing guitar.

My Lil' Wayne. That is what I refer to him in this picture. Now that we are in underware his pants all fall off! I don't send him out like this so don't worry.

Current guilty pleasure: candy. duh.

Current play list: kids greatest hits cd.

Current read: Presley loves loves books. This changes daily, however he loves the Heaven is For Real for Children and anything with a truck on it.

Current drink: Capri-Sun grape.

Current food: cereal and cereal bars. he also loves salad. I have never seen a kid eat salad like he does.

Current favorite show: Currently it is Duck Tales & The Lion King.

Current wish list: this week it is - a bicycle, a boat, a tractor and a car.

Current needs: he 'needs' to kiss the baby and he 'needs' to hug the baby. It is so sweet. I am not sure what all he is absorbing with this new news but he seems to be really excited. Yesterday he looked at my belly and shouted "baby come out now!" I told him several more months and his wish would come true. Not so sure he will be as excited then.

Current triumphs: potty-training!

Current Indulgence: gum.

Current blessing: becoming a big brother!

Current excitement: so many things excite him. Jumping on the trampoline, playing football and shooting basketball are his top 3 at the moment.

A Very Merry Christmas!

2011-12-27T11:30:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas with our family! This was a big one for Presley. He was really into it this year. So excited about Santa and his presents. He kept singing Happy Birthday Jesus which warmed my heart so much. I think we had just as much fun as he did. Christmas is so grand & wonderful through a child's eyes.

Presley helped me bake sugar cookies.

He loves to cook! He got a play grill & kitchen for Christmas. I have already eaten around 100 fake hamburgers. All delicious!

I love this picture because he was so tired from opening so many presents that when I showed him this one and said "open this" he replied with a sigh "you open it mommy." I knew he was tired at this point.

He couldn't wait to rip into the paper!

Playing his guitar!

Look! Santa left a note!

Gigi got Presley this backhoe! He has played on this for hours on end already and has scooped up tons of dirt. Love the hardhat with his name and light!

Just doing work.

Lala & Papa got P this cool motorcycle! How neat is this?

Big man!

One of my favorite parts of Christmas this year was surprising my family and Jason's family with the news that we are having a baby!!! Their reaction was PRICELESS. We filmed it and have watched it over and over. It was tough waiting until Christmas to tell them but so so worth it. Jason made these gorgeous frames and we put the picture of Presley in them. We are so excited about this new journey and so blessed!

Proud Big Brother!

The weekend.

2011-12-19T09:29:00.000-08:00

The weekends just fly by. If only we had one extra day.

Presley is obsessed with basketball. He shoots all day long. He loves the bulldawgs and had a fit when Jason brought home this jersey! This is his game day face. We thought it was so funny that we tweeted it to Dee Bost and he tweeted back...NIIICEE!

Presley had his party at school on Friday. He was super excited about eating candy and giving his happies to his buddies. Mommy forgot to take a pic of the cute reindeer and santa book wrapped in ribbon. Fail. :(

We went straight from school to see Disney on Ice! P LOVED it!! His favorites were the big whale from Pinocchio, the dragon from Mulan, and of course Nemo!

Disney on Ice!

We had a ball at Aubrey's 3rd birthday party at Jump. I had a great time too, as you can see in the picture below.

P & daddy at Jump.

We took a picture for Papa's ad for the paper.

~Presley & Hayden 2011~

Such big boys.

Let's go to the MOVIES!

2011-12-01T09:13:00.000-08:00

Presley loves the movies. Loves. We always get excited when a new movie comes out! I started taking a pic in front of the movie poster at his first movie and have done so ever since.

Happy Feet 2

We loved this movie!! So cute. A must see!

Arthur Christmas

This movie was super cute! At first I was afraid that it was going to be a bit over Presley's head but it turned out to be good and he loved Santa!

Popcorn mixed with M&M's- A P must! Seriously, he eats a full medium bucket by himself.

I promised him a movie IF he would be sweet and get a haircut.

Here is his fresh new cut.

And Ellie made an appearance a couple of nights ago. So far, he has been on top of our refrigerator, eating a banana and into the fruit, and last night he was hiding in P's stocking. There is no telling where he will be tonight!

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-01T09:06:00.000-08:00

Two Turkeys.

Birthday Dinner.

2011-11-17T12:38:00.000-08:00

We celebrated ~~Papa's~~ Lala's birthday with a dinner at Huck's. Presley entertained us all as usual. He refused to believe it was Lala's bday and kept saying it was Papa's. It was pretty funny especially when we sang happy birthday and he yelled Papa. Here are some pics.

Family pic.

P thought it was so funny to pose with the 'bulldawg' flag.

Presley & Hayden. He thinks he has to sit by Hayden and take care of him.

Will there ever be a time in our life that we eat and actually get more in our mouth than on our shirt?

Life with little boys.

Lately.

2011-11-15T09:55:00.000-08:00

Just a few pictures from our last couple of weeks. Presley is so sweet and loving and kind BUT (yes but) we have officially hit the terrible 2's. Have I said that before? Well, I think we are REALLY there now. He pushes the limits and will test us now just for fun. I can't wait to see what the 3's are all about.

He loves to play cars, trucks, ball, pretty much anything, but recently he has been all about his Play-Doh. It's so funny to see him concentrate and make things. Many times I have had a play-doh hotdog & cupcake whipped up for my dinner.

I love this face.

It's like he is thinking hard about what he is going to get into next.

Making mommy some play-doh cupcakes.

This is P's idea of fun. Can you believe I participate in this?

A lot of football in our life lately. We always have fun at the games even when we lose.

The silver lining in our loss to Bama.

Go Dawgs!

Recently I have been having awful headaches. Many BC powders later I decided to make a visit to the eye doctor. I have not had my eyes checked in YEARS. Turns out I needed a prescription for glasses. I don't have to wear them all the time, just when I am working or reading. I was alone while picking out these glasses. I would text J pictures and he would text back "they look good." All of them. No help there. Here's to hoping I don't look to much like Dr. Drew. I am officially O.L.D.

At least now I can say dumb things and people will think I am smart. Right?

Halloween Success.

2011-11-01T08:08:00.000-07:00

Trick -or-Treating was a major success! Presley is still on a sugar high. Seriously. He talked non-stop until 10:30 last night! That is much later than his usual 9 p.m. bedtime. His favorite candy of the night: sour skittles. He also loves reese's, gum, sweet tarts, and smarties. We will be eating candy for days.

This morning when I asked him what kind of cereal he wanted for breakfast he immediately replied "chockit candy." Oh no. I think we may have a problem on our hands.

Dr. Q.T. Patootie.

2011-10-31T10:30:00.000-07:00

Here is a quick run-down of our Halloween so far. Presley is Dr. Q.T.Patootie this year. He has a doctor kit that he loves so we just went with it. I think he is Dr. McCutie. After a full weekend of festivities we are off to trick - or - treat some more tonight.

Dr. P & Snow White.

Dr. P was so kind to come help me pass out candy to all the downtown trick-or-treaters!

Snow White even got a kiss!

and daddy got a check-up.

All good.

Presley loves the pumpkins!

Dr. Q.T.Patootie is here to save the day.

St. Andrews Trunk or Treat.

My mom and I have become obsessed with making sugar cookies. After 3 different sugar cookie recipes and a lot of mess and trial & error we sorta got the hang of it. We have had so much fun making cookies. I am in awe of the Cookie Mama and her wonderful cookies but fear not... I will not be quitting my day job. This is hard work but it was oh so much fun. For amazing cookies click here.

The cookies in their natural state.

All decorated and wrapped up to go to P's class.

All from scratch. Icing and cookies. Whew!

Close up of our cookie.

P's party was today and we were told to bring rice krispy treats. We made bat treats and candy corn treats. Sugar overload:)

The Doc is in.

Prescribing Chocolate milk & lots of candy!

Little Spooky boy ready to hand out his treats!

Harvest Moon - Pearl Jam

2011-10-24T11:46:00.000-07:00

This weekend as we were driving down the road this song came on XM. I have my presets and one is Pearl Jam radio. Presley loves music. Jason plays the guitar and P has his little mini one. Recently, I bought P a toy harmonica and he has yet to put it down! He loves instruments and music much like his mommy and daddy. I noticed several times when Harvest Moon would be playing, he would bob his head back and forth and pretend to play the guitar. So when this song came on in the car he looked at me and said so seriously, "mommy this is my favorite song." I am so glad he has good taste. ;)

Originally a Neil Young song, this version is by Pearl Jam. I, too, love the song and how fitting it is for the season.

A close second favorite of P's- Old Crow Medicine Show- Rock me momma (Wagon Wheel).

Happy Monday.

Dear Sophie.

2011-10-21T15:52:00.000-07:00

Many times I am asked why I blog or how I have time to keep up with it. Everytime I see this commercial (cheesy as it may sound) it brings a tear to my eye. This is why I blog. I hope one day Presley will appreciate these memories as much as I do.

Lady Killer.

2011-10-21T08:20:00.000-07:00

Good looking & likes to clean!!

What a combo. Look out girls.

How to be cool...

2011-10-20T08:30:00.000-07:00

Pose in your cool pj's.

Defy the rules.

XO-

Tuesday thoughts & rambles...

2011-10-18T08:27:00.000-07:00

Most of you know that my mom and I share a birthday. Yep, she had to go through labor on her birthday to deliver me. Poor thing. This sharing of the birthdays has really blown Presley's mind. I would tell him that we were going out to celebrate Gigi's birthday and then Jason would say that we were celebrating mommy's birthday. He refused to believe that it was my birthday. The entire weekend it was Gigi's birthday and when someone would mention my bday he would immediately correct them. We tried telling him that we share the same day but at 2 1/2 years old, you share nothing.

I have to lean in and sneak pictures with P these days. He is either way too busy or just down right refuses to pose or smile. #Paparazzi Problems.

Or if he does decide he will give us his 2 seconds he must mess it up by being silly.

Case in point:

but he is so darn cute doing it. The only family shot we got.

Nothing like celebrating your birthday with a big fat heartbreaking loss. The only thing that makes the pain bearable is watching the game with this little guy who apparently, like me, thought Chris Relf would start. Notice the jersey.

I texted this picture to Jason yesterday and wrote: Ran out for a quick errand and yes these are my house shoes. Don't judge. He quickly responded: Sad, Don't tell me this is what 31 is?

My response: Yes. Next time I will go out in my curlers.

I didn't even attempt to tie them.

I spy:

A Daredevil.

I am sure a broken bone is in our future.

Love the golf course on these late fall evenings. Peaceful.

and my last thought: I should have been British. I love hot tea. I could drink it all day.

Happy Tuesday.

Weekend Fun.

2011-10-10T10:38:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Patch fun with Si...

Shopping with mommy....

and finally Praising the Lord on Sunday.

Fall 2011

2011-10-10T10:20:00.000-07:00

Presley and Simon had pictures this weekend at the Pumpkin Patch. Trying to get 2- two year old boys to look at the camera at the same time and smile is like me trying to get into a size 0...it's not going to happen. They had the best time though playing and hamming it up for Heather (the photographer). Presley looks so old in these pictures! It's crazy how fast he is growing. He is still off the charts (literally) in the height area and is pretty thin because he burns twice the calories he takes in. He is on FULL blast these days.

Thanks again Heather Riley for these awesome pictures!!

Sweet boys!

My little man!

Best friends!

One of my favorites! They loved throwing cotton at Heather while she took their pics! Boys will boys!

All day, everyday...

2011-10-04T13:38:00.000-07:00

All day, everyday at our house. 24/7.

Translation: "who let the dawgs out? Rooo Roo Roo."

Occasionally he will say "not me" in the middle of the song. Glad he clarified that.

Sweet P.

2011-09-29T12:04:00.001-07:00

Love knows No Borders.

2011-09-29T09:42:00.000-07:00

Say "CHEEESE"

We received our t-shirts last night from The Gordans! P loved his so much that he slept in it. He kept saying green, yellow, & red! We are so happy that we could do a small part in helping the Gordans bring Max home. We love following this story and can't wait for them to all be together!

Gameday.

2011-09-26T13:42:00.000-07:00

Presley's game day experience:

First things first: Make sure you bring all the essentials. Cowbell, Large foam finger, state visor, state t-shirt, and a big grin on your face.

I present: Dan's #1 Fan.

Secondly: Make sure to be just like daddy even down to where to store the cowbell on your way to the stadium.

P's cowbell even has a EX sticker on it just like daddy. Thank you Cody for this awesome baby gift! 2 years later we still love it. I am sure it will be drug along for many more games.

Third: Get your game day face on!

A true gentleman always stops to show his respects during the national anthem.

Ringing my big cowbell...one can never have too many cowbells.

Lastly, be sure to mess up the one and only picture you take with mommy.

I'm a bulldog.

2011-09-23T15:29:00.000-07:00

I'm a bulldog & proud of it!

Recent favorites.

2011-09-23T15:23:00.000-07:00

I ran across this picture on my phone and forgot just how much I love it. This captures our relationship.

"You are my Sunshine, my only Sunshine."

Presley: 2 1/2 years old.

* Loves the bulldogs and going to a game. Anytime he sees maroon or the logo he yells "bulllldogs" as loud as possible. Calls his cowbell a cowboy. Go figure.

*Is fond of all the words that makes a mommy cringe. Yes, I am talking about the word doodoo. He says it and grins from ear to ear and looks directly at me. Last night he told me that my name was doodoo gaskin. He is a funny one. He did not get this from me, I swear. Daycare, yes daycare.

*Has the least little appetite of any human I know. He grazes most of the time and I have to force feed him which is always so pretty.

*Knows his shapes (circles, triangles, & squares) says his ABC's, blessing, prayers, various songs, can almost quote you the movies Cinderella, Nemo, Cars, A bug's life, & Mickey Mouse.

*Can say his full name when asked. Presley Matthew Gaskin. Sometimes it's just Maffew Gasin and sometimes it's Maffew Presley. A few times he has told me that he didn't want Gaskin. Uh, Ok. Either way, it's adorable.

*Thinks anytime we go anywhere he deserves a 'happy' and most of the time he gets one.

* Loves bugs and hates bugs. He hunts them down and then squeals like a girl for me to get it.

*Struts when he has an audience or when we praise him for doing something good. It's so funny. I will get it on video.

*Potties in his potty. We are still not completely there but we are working on it.

*Brushes his teeth by himself.

*At the moment he adores his mommy & daddy. Soaking it all up.

Happy weekend!

P @ 2 1/2 years old. Pretty boy.

Poetic.

2011-09-21T12:43:00.000-07:00

"And when it rains on your parade, look up rather than down.

Without the rain, there would be no rainbow."

Gilbert K. Chesterton

A Funny.

2011-09-21T08:01:00.001-07:00

So wrong on so many levals but still quite funny.

What have we been up to?

2011-09-19T10:06:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the lack of blogging. We have been super busy as usual. Football is here so we are on the move more and the store is crazy busy (always grateful;)) so I will try to keep up as we go, go, go.

P said it best with this picture after the heartbreaking loss to Auburn....

(I really found him like this at the end of the game)

I couldn't watch it either P.

I know it could be worse though...think TSUN.

LSU game in our 'gameday attire.' Yes, we went there and I have to admit... I have never been so comfortable and so proud to wear my MSU shirt!

Me & SB:)

Note* I realize I have poor posture. Will try and work on that.

Next day: Rooting for the DAWGS can be exhausting both mentally and physically. Still recuperating on Friday.

Daddy was gone last week so we had to send him pic updates. This is my big boy after bath on his step stool in his bathroom brushing his teeth by himself and wearing his underoos! Big gulp mommy, it will be ok. We always like to slick the hair back ;)

A personal note to daddy (while watching A Bug's Life)

My sleeping beauty.

Presley moved up to big boy Sunday School class and now sits in church until it's time to go to Children's Church. He was so good this Sunday that we let him stay out the entire service. He likes gettin' his Gospel on!

My future Pablo Picasso. This is the start of a second painting. The first one is proudly displayed. He loves to paint like his mommy!

This is a look like "Please just let the genius do his work!"

UPDATE!!

2011-09-07T08:13:00.000-07:00

**UPDATE**

Guess who pottied in their potty TWICE last night?

This little fella:

We acted like we just won the lottery. Seriously, it was crazy. So much in fact that he might be terrifed. So proud of him. Thanks for the suggestions!!

Big boy

2011-09-06T12:49:00.000-07:00

How do you know when you are a big boy? When you own a pair of these:

Seriously his booty is the size of my thumb nail! Cutie Patootie.

Yep, it's that time. Time to potty train. We have been talking about it and even showing P if not downright begging him to tt in the potty. He tells me he has to and so we run and then nothing. Last night I let him wear his big boy underoos around the house for a bit. He LOVED them so much he didn't want to put on his pj's. Eventually we will go into lockdown mode and try to conquer the beast one weekend soon. Any advice is greatly appreciated!

Dancing in my underoos.:)

Showing off his cars underwear.

He will kill me for this one day.

FOOTBALL:)

2011-09-06T12:39:00.000-07:00

So last week I received this picture text from Jason:

He was in Starkville working and just happened to do a little bulldog shopping for Presley. Yes, football season has hit the Gaskin household in full force. The mood around the place is just simply more bright and cheery.

We headed off to Memphis for the first of many games. We took Presley and he LOVED everything about it. We took him last year and he liked it but this year you could see a difference in his actions. He sat and watched most of the game. He loved the band and mascots too. Everytime a player would fall he would tell me "mommy, he needs a band-aid." He was so good. I hope he is that good for the rest of the season. I am still preparing for some fits and total meltdowns...from Presley too.;)

Sitting with daddy and watching the bulldogs.

Daddy explaining the game.

Favorite part: The firework show at the end of the game.

My future football player.

A funny video of P at the end of the game. Like I said, he loved the band!

Just Because...

2011-08-25T08:48:00.000-07:00

Just because I think he is the sweetest, prettiest, most adorable child ever.
Just because I love him!

First trip to the dentist.

2011-08-09T11:00:00.000-07:00

We made our first trip to the dentist yesterday. Presley did great. I was super nervous about it but he proved me wrong.

Presley dancing before getting his check-up.

Sitting in the chair like a big boy! He actually let her brush his teeth good and count them. Overall I would say our first trip was a success and I am glad it's over (for now at least)!

Night Night time.

2011-08-03T11:57:00.000-07:00

As much as I hate hearing my voice on video, I couldn't help but post these 2 videos. The best time of my day is when I lay down with Presley right before bed. We will sit and talk for an hour before he falls out. It's some of the sweetest conversations. He will tell me bedtime stories or about his day. Sometimes he will say "Presley go to time out" - good thing he is honest, right? I tried to capture some of the new things he has been doing. I was a bit unsuccessful but you get the idea.

Video 1# - Presley always tells me he loves me more than the moon and stars. My mom always tells him that and I started saying it too. Naturally he caught on. Sometimes he says " I love you mommy, moon and stars." Just this week he said: "I love you mommy more than my backhoe." I almost died!! I tried to get this on video but of course he comes out with the word BIG. I loved it just as much!!

Video 2# - Presley told me this week out of the blue "your my favorite mommy." Talk about melting my heart! I was trying to get him on video saying this but of course he didn't as soon as the camera started rolling so I had to improvise a bit. ;)

Weekend activities...

2011-08-02T11:40:00.000-07:00

Eating @ Mt. Fugi and using chopsticks for the first time;)

He loved them!

Lounging at the pool. Relaxing is hard work.

This weekend P jumped in and went underwater and held his breath several times. Big steps.

Hanging out with his best bud, Simon.

Double Trouble.:)

Who's in charge here?

2011-07-25T10:35:00.000-07:00

Ahhh, the 2's. I love them. I do. I also am scared to death of this age and what's about to hit us. Presley is changing every single day. I am always amazed at some of the things he does or says. He just got moved up to the 'big boy' room about 2 weeks ago and I can already see a difference in his attitude and actions. He is very tender hearted and sweet but all boy. That being said, I must tell you some of the funny things that he has done in the past few weeks all of which leave me asking the question: Who is in charge here?

Examples:

Me: Presley, don't climb up on the couch, you will fall off the back and hurt your head.

Presley: Mommy, I put you in time out.

Me: ?? Umm, ok.

Me: (driving in pouring down rain) while Presley watches his movie.

Presley: Mommy, cut the rain off...CUT THE RAIN OFF!!!!!!

Me: I can't. It's coming from the sky and God wants it to rain so the flowers will grow. Do you want me to call God?

Presley: No no, Daddy call God.

Me: Presley, do you want to watch Bob the Builder, Roary, or Cars???

Presley: Yes, Cars!!

Me: Ok. ( I put in the movie but the previews are playing)

Presley: WATCH CARS MOMMY!!!

Me: It's coming on, just a sec...

Presley: CARS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Me: One sec....it's about to come on. (Seconds later it finally comes on.)

Presley: TOLD you so Mommy. I told you.

Other highlights and word I have heard.

"Hush mommy"

"You get orange snowcone mommy, I get bubblegum"

If anything hits the floor I immediately hear: "Get it mommy, get it."

Wow. This is the beginning. Can't wait to see what 3 & 4 hold.:)

My little stud muffin.

My orange snow cone he insisted I get.

Yep, he ate his bubblegum snow cone and then started on mine. He is a Mess!

MSU WHOO HOO!

2011-07-21T09:01:00.000-07:00

A good friend asked Presley to model some MSU clothes for an upcoming clothing show. We were so honored and excited! Despite the extremely hot weather and the 'witching hour' (you know, the hour or so before dinner when children become tired and ILL??) we got some really cute shots. I can't wait to go to the party and buy some of these adorable clothes!! Cute boy clothing, don't get me started, is so hard to find. However, these are the most precious MSU clothes that I have seen! The best part: we got to hang out at a certain someone's house and play with his little boy and meet his sweet wife! Thanks again for asking us Katie!!

I love that my child loves the Bulldogs!

Getting ready to model...

Taking a water break.

Playing around!

Time to get serious.

Fruit

2011-07-21T08:40:00.000-07:00

I have mentioned it a time or two in other posts about how much Presley loves fresh fruit. Last night I cut up some strawberries, peaches, and blackberries and mixed together in a bowl. I found him in his room sitting on the floor with the entire bowl shoveling in the fruit! At least he is eating healthy. Maybe this will balance all the chicken nuggets and french fries.;)

"It's delicious"

Busted.

Summer days...

2011-07-21T08:36:00.000-07:00

Summer is definitely here and it came with a vengeance this year! I say it so much that I am sick of hearing myself but "It's HOTTTT!!!" There is only so long that we can play outside these days. Presley and I had a summer date last weekend. First we went to eat snow cones. He loves the color orange and thinks everything is orange. I got him an orange snow cone (naturally) and the first things he says to me is "it's blue mommy!" Oh well! Next we went to the park to play. He had a blast on the big kid slides. We finished the weekend by going to see Winnie the Pooh. He is really enjoying the movies & loves popcorn!

Yummy!

P loves snow cones!!

Big Slide!

Driving

Dare Devil.

Silly boy!

Winnie the Pooh!!

Circus & Friends.

2011-07-11T11:09:00.000-07:00

We took Presley to his first circus last Thursday! He loved it! He was amazed at the elephants and the motorcycles.

Waiting for the show to start.

Ringling Bros. Circus!

Watching in amazement.

Enjoying a chocolate treat!

He loved the confetti afterwards.

Coming home with a nice new toy!

Saturday we made a mad dash to Jackson to see our friends The Garys & The Chews! Both have had babies in the past couple of months.

My lunch date with Sarah Beth & sweet Collins! She is so beautiful and such a good baby. She never made a peep. However, two toddler boys made sure to make up for it!;)

Sweet Sam! The only picture I got with Presley and Sam. I loved holding him and feeding him! He is such a sweet boy and I can't wait to see him again!

Isn't he adorable??

July 4th!

2011-07-05T12:17:00.000-07:00

We had a nice long 4th weekend! A lot of fireworks, ice cream, swimming, & lounging went into making this holiday a success!

My little firecracker!

Talking to Uncle Sam. Only Mimi would have a life size version.

Waving the flag!

Mack and Presley!

Cousins! Henley, Mack, Presley, & Hayden!

Presley, Mollie, & Mack watching the fireworks.

Smoke bombs!

Daddy working the sparklers...

Our version of a firework show!

Someone scared of the sparklers???

Loving the fireworks!!!!

Cars 2!

2011-06-28T09:33:00.000-07:00

Guess what we did this weekend? Yep. We went to see Cars 2! I am sure if you have a toddler boy you know by now that this movie came out this past weekend. Presley is a tad obsessed. Everytime we sit in the car he immediately shouts "cars mommy, cars, wanna watch cars!!!" I know every word of the first movie b/c he refuses to wear his headphones in the car. I was a bit nervous about how well he would do through the movie but he did great! We have been to 2 movies so far and both he was good for the first hour and then he was ready to leave. However, this just happens to be his FAVORITE movie so he never moved a muscle. He sat and ate a bag of popcorn and took it all in. I snapped a few pics from my phone while we waited...

Cars 2! YAY!

This is P on the way to the movies. Can you see his excitement?? And yes, that is a Gyro bowl and it is the BEST invention EVER!!!!!!!! Go get one today. Do not waste anymore time.

Patiently waiting....

and waiting....

and waiting.

YAY! Finally time to see the movie!

G-O-L-F

2011-06-22T15:11:00.000-07:00

My child is obsessed with golf. He wakes up asking for the golf club and goes to bed with it in his hand. He wants to 'tee it up' on the course daily. He loves loves loves golf. I am honestly amazed at how much he likes the sport at such a young age. Sure, we live on a golf course and Jason loves to play the game but we really don't promote or push it on him. He is a mere 2. In 3 months he could hate it and never look back or he could continue to be obsessed. Either way, the child likes his golf and he is serious about it. He is also pretty good. So I embrace it...

Funny note: He is left handed.

Ok, so I must admit that I have always been skeptical when I read stories about athletes who started playing their chosen sport at such a young age. I remember seeing an article where Tiger Woods was fully playing golf by the age of 2. Pssh, please. Then I saw the video of him playing. Ok, well that is rare, right? So last weekend on Father's Day I find myself rooting for this young kid, Rory Mcilroy, in the US Open. I also found myself interested in his story. How did he get so good at such a young age...22? Really? A US Open champ at the ripe age of 22.WOW. Something that caught my eye was his mom saying that he was hitting a golf ball 40 yards at 2!! WHAT? That's crazy. She also said she would leave the dryer door open and he would chip golf balls in the hall into the dryer when he was 4. Fast forward to the bottom of the story....the US Open purse payout is $7.5 million with the winner usually receiving about $1.35 million. I immediately bought Presley a new golf driver. :)

Shout-outs!

2011-06-21T12:39:00.000-07:00

Thanks so much to Chickabug for featuring Presley's Par-Tee on her blog!! Also, thanks to Not just a Mommy & Classic Events by Kris for also giving us a shout-out! Glad someone liked the details as much as I did:)

If you are not familiar with Chicabug, then you must get familiar! She is the best and makes throwing a party super easy! Love everything she does. Here is a link to the party feature and her blog!

http://www.chickabug.com/blog/2011/06/golf-party-presley-is-2.html

Destin 2011

2011-06-21T12:25:00.000-07:00

We just got back from a nice vacation to Destin. Presley had a ball. He played in the ocean, swam in the pool, rode go-carts, water cars, bumper cars, batman cars (see a pattern?) and pretty much any kind of car we could find! He was such a big boy the entire week. Lately it seems like each week brings an entirely new phase. He is now in the 'do it all myself' phase. He gets in and out of his car seat himself, brushes his teeth himself, puts on his flip-flops himself, eats and opens candy & gum himself, and so many more things that he will not allow me to help him with. I must say this phase is bittersweet. I do see a big boy more everyday.

Some of the sweet things he does now:

Tries to catch the moon by jumping as high as he can and then looks at me and says "I can't reach it mommy?"

When I go to brush his teeth or wash his hair he will tell me "enough mommy."

He drops something and immediately says "get it mommy, get it" - and I do :-/

Sings his ABC's all the time.

He can count to 17. Random #, I know.

Always tells us "nite, nite, sweet dreams, & see you in the morning" before bedtime.

I see so much of myself & J in him that it's crazy!!

See what I mean:

Riding bumper cars!

Checking out the airplanes:)

Having a convo with Hayden

Such a sweet smile!

Time for some reading....

A quiet moment with my little man.

Such a sweet face. Notice where his dinner landed? Yep, I am the queen of stain removal these days.

Such a cool dude! Riding the go-carts with daddy!

waving at mommy...

blowing mommy a kiss!

I love this pic for 2 reasons: 1. P let a woman drive 2. Check out P listening to the guy. He takes this serious.

My little fish.

Beach bummin'

Playing on the beach.

Cute fella!

Show me your teeth!

Yes, sadly this is the only way we get a family portrait these days.

Someone loves the ocean!!!

Taking it all in.

Beach bum.

Riding the water car!

Sweet boys!

Whew! It was a jam packed & eventful week!

Waterpark Adventure.

2011-06-07T11:49:00.000-07:00

Saturday we took Presley and Simon to the water park in Philadelphia. They had a blast! We left at 8 and got home that night at 10. They were such good boys and literally played the entire time. It wasn't but maybe 10 minutes after we left that they both passed out asleep! Here are a few pictures.

Si & P at Little Squirts Hollow.

Sweet & silly boys!

Stud Muffin.

Taking a quick break.

OUT!

I saw this hat and immediately knew I had to purchase it for P. It looks just like his daddy. How adorable is he in it??? Presh.

Taking time to smell the flowers.

Of course brown dog (creative name, right?) had to wear the hat. Presley thought it was hilarious to humiliate him.

A few things Presley is doing these days:

His new 'sayings'-

"Be right back" - Yesterday I heard the door open and looked down the hall and he said to me "be right back mommy" - I was like, hello? No. I don't think so little man ;)

"Good Job" - He will kiss me and then hold up his thumb and say "good job mommy" LOL!

"Big Boy" - I will try and help him do something and he looks at me and says "Presley a big boy mommy" - Ummm, ok. Sniff Sniff.

Recent words I have heard him say -
"Seriously?"
"Really?"
"Calm Down"

He has such a funny personality. I don't know what is going to come out of his mouth next!! It kinda scares me a bit;)

Memorial Day Rundown.

2011-05-31T14:05:00.000-07:00

We had a lovely extended weekend. We spent most of it at GiGi's pool swimming, playing with buddies, and on the river. Here is a rundown of the events.

Swimming and eating push-ups!

Checking out Hollywood's best bodies 2011....

Building and working in the sand pile at gigi's- daddy made the boys a fort that they wanted to name "tapaw." Who knows????

We love DIRT!

Boating with buddies!

Mollie, Simon, & Presley

Waving at the 'big boat!' These boys LOVE LOVE papa's boat!

Aaah, sunset on the river. Nice way to end the day.

But before the weekend is over one must take a spin in Mollie's pink jeep!

Total Memorial Day exhaustion! The weekend was a success.

Amazed.

2011-05-27T09:38:00.000-07:00

I am always amazed at the pictures my friend, Katie McCrary takes. I love how she truly captures Presley's personality. Here are just a sample of the ones she took from our latest session. She is so talented and I am already looking forward to our next shoot!

Presley Matthew Gaskin

2 year pictures

W-I-N

2011-05-24T13:03:00.000-07:00

Someone is ready for football season.

One more time.

2011-05-23T09:12:00.000-07:00

Presley has learned to push the limits playing, staying up, riding the golf cart, you name it, with things by promising us "one more time" and "last one." It is so funny. I will tell him that we have to go inside or stop doing something he says "mommy, just one more time" and holds his little finger up. Then he follows up by saying "last one" and "promise." I caught just a short snippet of this on my phone camera yesterday at the pool.

Friends.

2011-05-23T09:03:00.000-07:00

Elmo in a leg lock. True friends.

Little fish.

2011-05-23T08:59:00.000-07:00

Presley loves the pool. I am not sure who is more tired at the end of the day...me or him? It is a full time job keeping up with this little guy.

This life is tough...

but someone has to do it!

My little fish.

thinking about what to do next.

shoot my 'pow pow'!

Sprinkler fun!

The best way to play outside in the heat!

Can you tell he is all boy? Everything is a gun, loves trucks & tractors, likes any kind of ball...yep, I have my hands full!

Funny thing is....

2011-05-19T14:11:00.000-07:00

Jason and I just returned from a fabulous vacation to Miami. We had the best time relaxing and exploring the city.

Highlights include:

THE FOOD!!!:) Some of the very best dining I have had. Favorites would be Prime 112, Ola, A Fish called Avalon & Casa Tua.

The scenery: Where else can you sit and dine outside while watching a lot of beach don'ts?

The hotels/nightlife: In love with The Delano pool. The Gansevoort Rooftop, W, and so much more.

The Low:

Finding out the Golden Girls were taped in LA and not Miami. BIG LETDOWN.:(

Trip Highlights:

Pool dining.

Prime 112.

Strolling on the streets of Miami.

Doing a lot of this & that:

The Delano.

BUT the funny thing is....

although we were getting much needed R&R, I was so badly missing this little guy:

Some Presley tidbits:

1. He is talking so much. His vocabulary is really growing on a daily basis. He is speaking in sentences for the most part. Everyday he will say something new and many times I have no clue where he comes up with things. For example: He has been really big on showing me and telling me about his toenails. He will say "see mommy? see my toenails???" That is just the tip of the ice burg of conversations that we have.

2. He loves chocolate milk, any kind of meat and potatoes, chicken nuggets, french fries, bananas, cereal (lucky charms), pb&j's, diet green tea, and fresh fruit just to name a few. He prefers to eat on the go and I can usually get him to eat better if he is on the move.

3. He is still into Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Sprout, Cars-the movie, Bambi & Handy Manny.

4. Hobbies include: Golfing, riding the golf cart, kicking the ball, playing t-ball, sliding and swinging & running everywhere!

6. He is so sweet and good to Sophie. Loves to feed her and always ask if she needs water and a treat. He also loves any baby. He likes to hold them and kiss them.

7. He is in the process of learning about the potty. He will tell me he has to go but then just sits there on it. It's all still new to him but he is interested.

8. He is so FUNNY! He loves to make people laugh.

9. He loves to sing. His current favs are : The B-I-B-L-E, Jesus loves me, Happy birthday, This little light of mine and Old MacDonald. When he is super happy and having fun he will randomly burst into "Happy Birthday" really loud. He has been known to do this at the dinner table, out in public, and in the car.

10. He is very inquisitive. Studies everything. I will catch him watching me do something and 10 minutes later he is doing it. Loves to help out. He will carry laundry for me, sweep, help me make the bed, etc...

11. He is not a morning person (like his mommy) until about 8:15 or so...then he is good to go.

These are just a few things about P.

Random cuteness.

2011-05-10T09:16:00.000-07:00

"Before you were born.................I loved you."

Author: unknown

Thanks for the best mother's day ever! I love being a mommy to the sweetest boy on earth! Here are some random pictures from the weekend.

Friday golfing...

Saturday outdoor playing

"Whoa, where are you going?"

Sunday babysitting...(sorta;))

"I love you...No I don't, I want to hold you....ummm, No I really don't"
Presley loves holding Hayden for about 2 seconds and then he is finished. Then the process repeats itself. This could go on and on and on for a long time I am afraid.

This is how I found Presley one day last week in his room!

An afternoon Smackers treat!

He is obsessed with pockets. He always tell me " mommy, pockets" so I know to put my hands in my pockets!

My little dare devil.

Hump Day fun.

2011-05-04T11:18:00.000-07:00

This is the norm around our house. Do I stand a chance with these two? I think not.

"So daddy, what did you shoot today?"

Heartbreaking.

2011-04-28T14:13:00.000-07:00

What's left of Smithville.

We are so blessed that we just missed being hit by the tornado that ripped through the south yesterday. However, so many of our friends right down the road in Smithville were not so lucky. The town is completely destroyed and so many people are hurt and without homes and basic necessities.

Please please donate food, clothing, basic necessities to National Guard Armory in Amory. If you can't get to Amory, donate to the Mississippi Red Cross.

I have so many chilling stories from yesterday. Many times I just had to stop my mind from going to places that I knew it shouldn't. I can only tell you that my family is safe and we are hurting for those that were not so fortunate. Not only does my heart ache for Smithville but for the south including those in Tuscaloosa and the neighboring cities.

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. Ps34:18

Easter rundown.

2011-04-26T15:15:00.000-07:00

Wow. Easter was a lot like Christmas in the fact that it was super packed and super fast paced. We crammed a ton of things into one weekend but we had fun doing it! I kinda have a weekend hangover so to speak from all the action. Here is how our Easter started and finished.

Friday:

Presley's Easter happies for his buddies.

The start of a lot of sugar intake.

All ready for his school party with his happies in hand!

The happies: Hoppy Easter, Love Presley!

Saturday:

Fresh from a bath and time to dye Easter eggs!!

This is sooo much fun!

Working hard...

Checking the details of his work...

Showing off his favorite egg!

Next it was on to Mack's 2nd birthday party! Easter egg hunting...

On the lookout for others trying to get his eggs ;)

Hunting eggs with Mack!

The birthday boy!

Enjoying more sweets!

Chillin' with Aubrey in Mack's new gator...

Showing her the ropes.

Finally resting with Hayden.

Then off to Gigi's for another egg hunt!

EASTER SUNDAY:

"LOOK DADDY & MOMMY!!" Easter bunny came:))))

Showing off some Easter bunny goodies.

After church stroll with daddy.

Flying a kite that the Easter bunny brought.

Headed to the River to play some more...

My sweet 2 year old.

Mollie joined us for some boating.

They is fun for P and still up in the air for Mollie...

Sweet friends.

boat dancing!

and that ends a very eventful weekend!

2 is the new 22.

2011-04-20T14:01:00.000-07:00

Apparently 2 is the new 22.

let me explain....

Presley as of late....

Let's us all know when it is time to GO...

Sweet-n-low anyone??

Eats chips like they are being snatched away from him.

Flosses.

Sits and ponders about life. On a large sand pile of course.

Dines alone on the patio.

My 2 year old.

Big Weekend!

2011-04-12T10:44:00.000-07:00

What a big weekend for my big boy. Before all the birthday hoopla, we went to the Railroad festival, Super Bulldog weekend, and to the movies! Whew! Here are a few pictures I snapped on my Iphone.

He would pose in front of the choo choo but would not ride it.

We came home with this cool SpiderMan balloon!

Toted him everywhere....

Even took him outside first thing the next morning after he tried to sleep with him in the bed. Yes, that is P with a pj shirt on, a diaper, and spiderman boots. Little boys....gotta love 'em!

SBW spring game!

Checking out the football team.

After the birthday party was over and the guest were gone, P stripped down to just his shirt and a diaper. His favorite look.

Later that night we went to the movies. This was our first time and Presley did great! We made it through the movie until the last 10 minutes. Mollie, his sweet friend, was there so they played and shared popcorn, danced in the back, and talked jibber jabber to each other. They are so cute together. Later I asked P if she smelled good and he said "YES!"

Railroad festival, SBW, Birthday party, movie & first date. It was a BIG weekend for my BIG boy!

Presley's 2nd birthday PAR-TEE!

2011-04-11T14:16:00.000-07:00

Presley turned 2 yesterday and so that meant a celebration! We had the best time at his party and I know he enjoyed it because he woke up at 7:30 a.m. and did not go to sleep until 9:45 p.m. He was excited and wound up! All week he would tell me to come to his party. He would ask other family members to come to his party too. We also sang happy birthday all week long and he would shout "Presley!" One would think that when it was time to sing it at his party he would be so excited, right? Nope. He busted out crying and basically threw a tantrum for about 2 minutes until we all finished. He was opening a present and I suppose he thought we were taking him away from his toys. A few minutes later he started singing it himself. So, we all started singing again and it went over great ;) What's a 2 year old party without a tantrum, right? He is a MESS.

All of our close family and friends were there to help us celebrate. We are very blessed to have so many wonderful people that love Presley.

Jason and I did EVERYTHING. Well, almost. I can't take credit for ALL of it. I will try my best to credit those below that helped. I would cut a 100 more cupcake holders out, staple 20 more banners together, prepare pinwheels & sandwiches, and dip pretzels until midnight all over again for Presley. I truly loved doing it all because I know that one day he will look back and perhaps appreciate it. Here are some pictures. Thanks to all who helped and came! He is blessed beyond words.

The birthday boy!!!!!!!!

and again...notice a pattern?

The invite.

The Food table.

The Watering Hole.

The Amazing CAKE!

The centerpieces.

The sign.

"Club Sandwiches"

"Doughnut Hole in Ones"

Cookies!

The CUPcakes. Love this picture because you can see Presley trying to snatch a cupcake.

Close up of the cupcakes with golf balls.

"Chip Shots"

"Sand Traps & Flag Sticks"

Pinwheels.

The golf goodies.

"Iced TEE"

Cute Water bottles.

The buddies.

The happies.

The Tags.

Golf games.

The golf cart.

The "course"

The presents!

Presley's Cake.

My little man.

The very blessed but TIRED parents!

Many Thanks to:

The Cookie mama for the ADORABLE cookies!

Susan Smith for baking the cupcakes and the FABULOUS CAKES!!!!

Chickabug for the invitations and printables! It all started with her design!!

Lala - my mother-in-law for making the bucket of balls- aka Oreo balls. They were yummy!! Also for bringing the table and chairs over. A chore, I know!

My mother -(GiGi) for cleaning, moving stuff, taking orders;), helping me hang things, balloons, pinwheels, and for helping me clean up!! The list keeps going but mainly just thanks for being a wonderful mom who is always there to help with the fun and not so fun stuff!!

Jason for well, gosh, everything. He helped make the backdrop, prepare food, all the yard work, etc.....He is such a trooper and I am telling you this birthday party would have been nothing without him.

My glue stick- aka my best friend through all of this ;)

All of our family and friends who helped Presley celebrate!!

and of course GOD for blessing us with Presley.

I hope I didn't leave anyone out!

Conversations with daddy.

2011-04-07T15:41:00.000-07:00

Ok, one more. The last one for today. This is how serious P is about riding the golf cart, lawnmower, boat, etc...

Sweet voice.

2011-04-07T14:39:00.000-07:00

Every night while putting Presley down to sleep we chit chat. The last few things we say to each other are "Night Night" and "I love you." I caught him saying this on my video (this explains the dark picture) and just had to post it. It is the sweetest voice in the entire world.

Does life get any better than this moment? I think not.

Walker turns 2!

2011-03-30T12:02:00.000-07:00

Walker celebrated his birthday Saturday and we were so sad we missed the party. However, we couldn't let him celebrate without seeing him at all last weekend so we made a mad dash to Jackson late Saturday afternoon. I packed my camera but unfortunately never got it out:( This is the only picture I have of them from the weekend. Thanks SB for sending it to me. I just adore it! They look soooooooo grown up in. I love their expressions. Doesn't P look like he is straight up posing?? They crack me up. Such sweet friends.

Happy Hump day!

Birthday Blowout!

2011-03-25T09:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Happy Birthday to Jason!!! I have this theory- you never really know your husband until you see him as a daddy. I can't tell you how blessed I am to have such a loving husband but mainly a wonderful daddy to Presley. We are both so lucky.

A good daddy takes you to Mexican Kitchen when you are 11 months old...

He builds you your first snowman even when it's freezing outside and you don't care...

Dresses you up on the weekends (when mommy isn't looking) and takes you out for lunch...

Let's you crawl all over him even when he is trying to watch the game but really is loving you playing on him...

totes you around in the 100 layers of clothes mommy put on you all because you don't want to walk in the snow anymore...

takes you out to play a little golf and makes sure you are comfy...

let's you ride in the lumber cart at Lowe's because he knows you like it...

let's you ride on his shoulders all day in 100 degree weather at one of the most important days of the year...an MSU football game

takes you to the zoo and discusses your day with you...

takes you swimming at Pickwick....

takes you to church on Sunday and teaches you about God...

Sits with you through a bunch of boring pictures that mommy wants to take...all while smiling....

Holds you and has the patience of Job even when you are crying so loud everyone in the restaurant turns and stares...

is your best friend...

Pimps you out on the beach...

loves holding you....

is a loving husband and father to our blessed family.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JASON!!

Almost there.

2011-03-24T12:34:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe that we are about to celebrate Presley's 2nd birthday. Where has the time gone?

From 2 weeks old to...

1 year to...

Now almost 2. Such a sweet sweet boy and a blessing to us and all our family.

I am in full party planning mode. This year we are doing it up in anything golf. Imagine that ;)

Car service.

2011-03-24T12:10:00.000-07:00

Need a ride?

Dance...

2011-03-24T11:44:00.000-07:00

Dance...because it's almost Friday.

Excuse my very country voice and the song choice that my child is dancing to. This is not what we normally dance to (Justin) but it was on and was the only thing available!

Doesn't he have good moves?

Just the latest...

2011-03-16T09:19:00.000-07:00

Just the latest trick from Presley. He loves pulling his pants down and running around the house. Why? No clue. This is where I caught him last night. He was in our bedroom watching Mickey Mouse clubhouse. I guess it's just how he rolls.

TGIF...

2011-03-04T08:23:00.000-08:00

TGIF from Presley!

I love this picture! His hair right out of the bath. Natural curls? What? This is what his hair looks like if I don't brush it. If you follow this blog you have read how obsessive I can be about his hair. I usually brush it and it just has a natural wave but I decided to show off his curls. He gets his hair from his daddy. Love it and his GQ model look!

and every little boy should dip there Oreo in milk, right? If he dipped this cookie once, I bet he dipped it a 100xs. It was just mush but he loved it.

Best Buds.

2011-02-21T09:30:00.000-08:00

Saturday we celebrated Simon's 2nd birthday! He had the cutest John Deere tractor party. Presley loved LOVED playing on the tractor. It was the perfect weather for a birthday party. The boys played all day and consumed a lot of candy and sweets. They were extrememly exhausted by the end of the night. They are the sweetest little fellas together and we just love listening to them talk. Some things we can understand and others are just jibber to each other. They really are best buds.

Riding the tractor!

2 buddies.

Riding the John Deere lawnmower!

The Birthday boy!! Simon :)

Tractor party birthday attire. Boots, jeans and of course a tractor tee.

I love this picture. I can only imagine the conversation they are having.

Mommy was cool enough to get to sit on the tractor for just a minute.

Later we gave the boys a bath and they had a ball!! They sang and splashed each other.

This picture is precious!

After bath time it was all about climbing in their Elmo pj's.

Sunday was all about playing outside. We were outdoors litterally from lunch until 8 that night. Presley played his little heart out. He was so exhausted that he feel asleep in his booster seat while having an afternoon snack.

Helping Daddy in his shop. I love this outfit because he actually picked it out. He had to wear the hat, freaked when he saw the mickey tee, and loves those darn blue crocs. He has almost out grown them and I.Can't.Wait.

Playing outside. Working on his soccer skills.

It was the perfect night for the grill and fireplace. We enjoyed this Sunday so much. Just our family, food, and fun.

Speaking of grilling out....I made this grilled corn salad. It was wonderful and was the perfect side to Jason's marinated tenderloin. This is not the greatest pic of it but I am telling you if you are grilling out soon you must try this recipe. It has a summery light taste to it. Below is the recipe and link.

Grilled Corn Salad Recipe

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Ingredients

4 ears of corn, do not shuck (or 2 1/2 cups frozen corn for the non-grill option)

1 large red bell pepper

1 5-inch long zucchini, sliced in half lengthwise

1/2 cup chopped red onion

1/2 cup chopped cilantro

1 serrano chili pepper, seeded and minced (optional) *note- I used only the half of a small pepper.

1 teaspoon ground cumin (best if you toast whole cumin seeds then grind)

1/4 cup crumbly salty cheese such as feta or cotija (optional)

2 Tbsp olive oil

2 Tbsp cider vinegar or lime juice - *note-I used lime juice

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Method

1 Prepare your grill for high, direct heat. Oil the grill grates. Rub a little olive oil over the bell pepper. Place the corn (in their husks) and red bell pepper directly on the grill grates. (See our method for grilling corn-on-the-cob.) Cover the grill.

Turn corn occasionally, so that every part of the husk is blackened. Turn the red bell pepper occasionally until the skin has blistered up all around it. This should take 15 to 20 minutes.

For the last 5 minutes or so, rub olive oil over the zucchini pieces and place the zucchini pieces directly on the grill grate, cut side down. Turn them over after a few minutes when they have some nice grill marks on them. Let them cook for just a minute or two on the other side.

1a - no grill version Alternatively you can prepare the vegetables on the stove-top. Shuck the corn and use a knife to remove the kernels from the cobs. If you don't have fresh corn, you can easily use frozen. Coat the bottom of a large, sturdy relatively stick-free (can use cast iron) pan with a little olive oil. Heat the pan to high. Spread out the corn kernels on the pan. If frozen, they will defrost almost immediately. Don't stir them that much, just let them cook, stirring occasionally, until they start to toast. When they get a little browned, remove them from the pan to a bowl. Lay the zucchini pieces on the pan and brown on both sides, do not over cook, remove from pan. The bell pepper does not need to be cooked, it can just be seeded and chopped fine.

2 Let the corn cool down for a few minutes and pull back the husks. Stand the corn husks vertically, tip facing down, in a large shallow bowl or baking dish. Use a sharp knife to make long, downward strokes, removing the kernels from the cob, as you work your way around the cob.

Once the bell pepper has cooled a bit, remove the outer peel. Cut open the pepper, remove the seeds and stem. Chop the bell pepper into small pieces.

Slice the slightly browned zucchini again lengthwise and chop into small pieces.

3 Place grilled or toasted corn kernels, chopped bell pepper, chopped zucchini, red onion, cilantro, and serrano (if using) into a large bowl. Add the cumin, olive oil, vinegar or lime juice, and crumbly cheese (if using). Mix gently. Salt and pepper to taste.

Serve cold or at room temperature. Serves 4.

http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/grilled_corn_salad/

Almost forgot.....

2011-02-15T08:45:00.000-08:00

Presley's happies for his friends for Valentine's Day! He had a blast at his party. His shirt was covered in chocolate stains as well as other various candies.

What are little boys made of?

Frogs and snails,

And puppy dog tails.

That's what little boys are made of.

XOXO

2011-02-14T11:08:00.000-08:00

We had a fun and relaxing weekend with GORGEOUS weather finally!! Presley played outside all day Saturday and Sunday.

Did you all know I hired a new worker for about 30 minutes of Friday?

"Hmmm, let's see"...(his exact quote) Do you think he has heard this a time or two?

This working thing is FUN!

Especially when it involves Elmo! Yes, he got caught.

Speaking of Elmo...we just so happen to run into him Saturday in Tupelo. Check out that look of fear & amazement.

This is as close as he would get but he talked Elmo's ear off. He began by saying "hi Elmo" and then he said a bunch of jibber jabber and then blew him several kisses and told him bye. It was so funny!

Does anyone else with a boy have this problem? He wants to eat all the time. Just mainly nibbles throughout the day. He loves getting into his pantry drawer at home. Do little girls do this too?

This weekend I caught myself looking back on this blog and being so very thankful that I have kept it up. There are so many memories and pictures and I can't wait to print the first book so we can read it when Presley gets older. It's pictures with actual stories instead of just pics. Some things I had already forgotten and some I just loved reading again. That being said, I was overjoyed when my mom gave me this beautiful calendar as part of my Valentine's day gift. I literally teared up when I went through it. The pictures below I took of it do it no justice. It is a year's worth of pictures of my family. Some pics I had sent her via email and some she had. I had no idea that she was doing this for us. I truly love it. There is no way that I will ever write on it. I have already demanded that she do one every year. The dates of my family and holidays have little pictures on them too. Such a neat idea if you are looking for a unique gift for anyone.

Just a couple of the months...

The back has a snapshot of all the months.

Look what P got!!!!!!!!!

I have to admit it. I let him sleep with us so I just put his Vday out the night before. He ran into his room this morning and freaked when he saw his giant frog balloon!

Having a Vday moment...

Kissing the frog balloon.

Where's P??

Some of his Valentine's day happies. I really try not to overdo. I have gotten so much better. It's so hard though when he is that cute & sweet but I did give in and gave him one gift the night before. Shame on mommy.

The Grammys were on last night and this is all he wanted to do. This morning after he got dressed he went back to singing and dancing and playing the guitar. Don't you love his 'get down' moves?

Look at this big boy! My, how his looks are changing. His Vday attire for his party @ school! I recently picked up these boat shoes in grey. He loves wearing them. He is really getting into clothes. He loved this dump truck shirt.

He made me breakfast. He is so talented ;)

Our boo boos. P cut his finger last night (almost a paper cut) right under his nail and I couldn't believe how much it bled. I had to get a "cars" band aid and put it on his little finger. Poor fella. He insisted that we all have band aids. He kept saying "ugh, Mommy, boo boo!" First thing this morning he looked for my band aid and Jason's. The things we do for him.

I have been loving Presley's manners. He will say excuse me, thank you, your welcome, and please. It doesn't matter what we do he will always say "tank you mommy." I caught him doing it this morning. So so so so stinkin' sweet.

Love & latest obsessions....

2011-02-11T12:10:00.000-08:00

I don't mean to sound like a broken record because I am pretty sure if you have facebook you have read a status or two pertaining to the weather, but I am so over winter and snow. We had yet another snow day yesterday. What do the Gaskins do when we are stuck inside? Sadly, we eat. I cook or bake and we eat and eat. This madness has to end.

Presley saying Cheese. He thinks he has to be funny all the time. Check out that shirt. I asked him if the kids picked on him for wearing it to school. Now this is true Love.

Chef Boy R P. He has mad baking skills.

Snow days cannot continue due to the food I want to bake. Most of it is so fattening.

After playing and cooking it's on to lounging...with elmo slippers of course.

Lounging is hard to do.

Now onto my latest obsessions. Those that are only interested in Presley can stop reading now. ;)

I love love Bobbie Brown. I especially love her moisturizer, blush, concealer, and as of recently her buffing grains. I just add a little of this to my regular cleanser and voila!...instant face scrub. You can control how much you add or how little. The best part is you don't have to change your face wash. Just use what you love and add this once or twice a week. Speaking of face wash I adore Murad. You can buy this at Beauty Motif in Tupelo, right down from Luxe ;)

OK, I am addicted to moisturizers. As I mentioned above, I love Bobbie Brown's. Recently I started using Creme De La Mer. I really like the way it makes my face feel. I do realize it is extremely expensive so I am deciding if it is worth it. I will say a little goes a long way.

I got a sample of their new radiant serum. I love this. I like the way it smells and feels. I haven't purchased this yet but am thinking about it. I guess if there is one place to spend a little more money it would be your face. I will admit that after the first couple of times using it I was expecting to wake up looking like Jennifer Lopez. It didn't happen.

Really hoping to get some of Nicole Ritchie's House of Harlow jewelry for Vday. I love her style and her jewelry is really affordable.

I am still loving my skinny jeans but have only wanted to wear flare or bell bottom jeans as of late. I am glad they are making a comeback. So 70's.

Ombre hair. I am going to get ombre hair next week. I am nervous about it and could really careless all at the same time. If I don't like it, I will just go back to my natural color. Something about it is so appealing to me... mainly the fact that you can stop worrying about your roots.

and because it's almost Valentine's Day I thought I would share this postcard. I think it's really fitting.

Lately.

2011-02-09T09:24:00.000-08:00

Forgive me for the lack of blogging. You know how hard it is to even capture a slightly decent picture of an almost 2 year old? He is constantly running, bouncing a ball, jumping, or doing anything but sitting still for a picture. Good thing we have a somewhat decent camera.

How big does he look in this picture? We go back and forth about who he looks like. Most people say me but sometimes I get a glimpse of Jason. He is still into Elmo but is OBSESSED with Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Handy Manny, & Bob The Builder.

The only way to eat dinner? Watching the Ipad of course. At 22 months he has mastered the Ipad and Iphone. What is wrong with that sentence? I didn't have a cell phone until I was 17 and he will come to me and say "mommy, watch Ipad." The world today.

The shark bath do! Not happy about taking this picture.

Done with the bath. Ready to get out and play!

Watching Mickey Mouse.

This is what a 'fit' looks like. Why was he rolling on the floor in a fluster? He wanted ANOTHER vitamin. He loves them. Wants a hand full always. We go through this vitamin routine every night.

But new spider man socks make it all better. He adores socks so I always look for fun, cute ones. I found these at H&M.

Now onto reading. Just a lil' book to get a head start on things. This picture captures his personality to a T. I am afraid that personality was directly handed down from his mommy. Bless him.

For Sale!

2011-01-26T12:20:00.000-08:00

Re-doing and selling items that we no longer need- Please msg me if you are interested in any item. Will negotiate the price ;)

BEAUTIFUL curtains that I had made -Fun but elegant fabric- My curtains have a french pleat which is a lot more elegant looking. This is a picture of the fabric but not my exact curtains.. I have 2 panels sizes 50"x96" - $175 for both! I paid a lot more :(

Here is a better picture of the fabric in a pillow form.

Sectional Sofa only- the color of our couch is taupe. This picture only shoes camel. It is comfy and spacious! I will send a pic of the exact couch if you are interested. $475!

or this I.O. Metro Sofa that I had listed on here awhile back...I had several people interested but we still have it. We have barely used it. It's beautiful but we need something larger. $375!

That is all!

TGIF

2011-01-14T14:18:00.001-08:00

TGIF from P.

George turns 2!

2011-01-14T12:14:00.000-08:00

Gosh all these babies are growing up. This past weekend we had the pleasure of attending George Menetre's 2nd birthday. It was a Thomas the Train party (which P loves) and was so cute. Gracie and Bailey did a great job and the cake and cookies were AMAZING. The kids loved just running and playing and having a good time. Here are a few snapshots of the party.

Gracie and George!

Cute Cookies!

Presley riding Thomas the Train.

George showing Presley how to work it.

The Cake!

Jumper hair.

Two buddies playing. Love them!

More snow pictures....

2011-01-14T11:59:00.000-08:00

I have a ton of snow pictures but I will spare you this short run of them.

A few shots of our neighborhood, Riverbirch, in the snow.

Beautiful!

One of the many lots of untouched snow. So so pretty.

Snow bunny!

The beginning of a very bad idea...

Fun, right?

Getting scary now...

Crash landing. :(

These two thought it would be fun and also thought it was funny.

Hard to stand up in 5 inches of snow!

I love this face. It's snowball throwing time and P doesn't play around.

Doesn't this look like somewhere in the mountains?

Enjoying Nature at it's best.

Don't tempt me, I will throw it.

Winter Storm 2011

2011-01-13T15:54:00.000-08:00

It's not breaking news that we got a lot of SNOW and most sane people were home bound due to the weather. I know, I know it snows just a little in Mississippi and the town rolls up. Well, I for one didn't want to meet the crazy 16 year old girl out on the icy roads so I just stayed my happy little self at home with my partners in crime Presley and Jason. I am NOT a winter person so I was dreading this winter storm. I Hate being cold, hate static in my hair, hate my pale skin, hate having to wear my furry socks all the time in the house, hate winter. I like spring and summer and sunshine and beautiful flowers, fresh cut grass, the beach...you get the idea. I did enjoy watching the snow fall but after a few days I was over it. I am thankful however for this mini blizzard we had for one reason: Spending time with my family. I loved playing (and I mean playing) with Presley and cooking and hanging out with Jason. I will cherish these memories forever. We watched movies, ate a lot, played with every single toy multiple times, built cars and fixed lawnmowers with P's new tool bench, danced to Dance Star Mickey, cooked sweets and fatty foods (and ate them;)) and just loved each other's company.So I find myself not hating this winter storm after all because of these 2 amazing people in my life. God is good.

Before the snow we stopped by Lowe's for a few little things Jason needed for his shop. My child never meets a stranger. He somehow ended up with the checkout lady at another register. Yes, I do watch him but he is a quick one, that little fella.

Eating some of Mommy's homemade mashed potatoes. What is it about a man and meat and potatoes??

I turned my back for a few minutes and he comes running in the living room with his cheezits and Jason's hat on backwards. I have no clue.

Watching the National Championship with yet again Cheezits.

Watching the snow fall.

Playing in the snow!

(more snow pics coming)

Winning.

2011-01-05T10:31:00.000-08:00

By now you have all heard that MSU beat the crap out of Michigan. I won't bore you with all my gooby stories of my love for this school. I will sum it up with this.

I was a MSU fan when it wasn't cool.

It's so much sweeter to go through the sweat and tears to finally have a winning season and a great program. I love love to watch the Dawgs play and had such a fun trip to Jacksonville. It's good to be on the winning side. I am sad to see the season end. I am like a guy in this sense. Already excited about next year. Go Dawgs.

MSU Ice Sculpture.

Bulldog love.

The Maroon & White balloon drop in Jacksonville.

Cowbells & Palm trees.

Football friends!

Grace.

Bailey, Gracie, me & Jason. So much fun at the game!!

WHAT. a great game.

52-14!!!!!

So good in fact that it got this guy fired.

Hail State.