The Bradens

Lots of New Posts

2011-08-05T23:20:00.003-04:00

Check them out when you get a chance.

The new background is in honor of Back to School. I can't believe it's that time again. Summer just flew by this year! Colsen starts back Aug. 22. This is his last year of preschool. I tear up just thinking about it. Time is going by way too quickly...

Peas

2011-08-05T21:42:00.004-04:00

Tonight Caroline had peas for the first time. She did really well and really seemed to like them. Next comes carrots or squash. I haven't decided which to try next.

It's peas for dinner.

I can't wait!!

Yeah for peas!!

Success!! I love peas!!!

Sitting Up

2011-08-05T21:34:00.005-04:00

Caroline is doing so well sitting up. She has longer and longer stretches of time before she falls. Our little girl is growing up so fast!! Before long she'll be crawling and then walking. Where does the time go?

Playing with toys while sitting up.

Our little cutie!

Big smile...

Look at me...

I'm such a big girl!

Green Beans

2011-08-05T21:27:00.006-04:00

A week ago Caroline had her first taste of green beans. She did really well and seemed to like them. I think she liked the fact that they had some actual taste to them.

It's green bean day!

Yummy, Yummy...

I can't wait to taste these...

There green...

Oatmeal

2011-08-05T21:17:00.000-04:00

About a week ago we tried oatmeal for the first time! I wouldn't say Caroline hated it but I wouldn't say she loved it either. At least it has a little more flavor than rice cereal. Here are a few pics. of our little girl eating some yummy oatmeal!!

Almost ready...

Can't wait...

What is this stuff...?

I kinda like it...

Yeah for something new!!

Play Date with Maya

2011-08-05T21:13:00.000-04:00

Maya and her Mommy, Kristen and big brother Nate came over for a play date a few weeks ago. They live one street over. Maya is about 4 months younger than Caroline and Nate is about 1 year older than Colsen. We all had a wonderful time playing and hanging out. I got a few pictures of Caroline and Maya playing but Colsen and Nate were too busy playing to stop for a photo opp. We can see many more play dates in out future!

Maya and Caroline hanging out!!

Maya...smile for the camera.

We're going to be GREAT friends!!

Caroline at 6 Months

2011-07-20T22:09:00.000-04:00

It's hard to believe that our baby girl is 6 months. Time has just flown by... Caroline has the sweetest personality. She is always smiling and rarely gets upset. She smiles the biggest when either her Daddy or her big brother are around. These first six months have been so fun I can't wait to see what the next 6 months have in store.

This Month Caroline:

Weight: 13 lbs. 14 oz. 3%
Height: 25 1/2 inches 30%
Sleeps: 12 hours at night and 2 naps during the day, she prefers to sleep on her tummy
Diapers: size 2
Clothes: 6 month
Food: nurses 4 to 5 times and started rice cereal and getting ready to try oatmeal
New Skills: moving toys from one hand to another, sitting up (she still needs some assistance doing it by herself but she gets better each day), making more sounds (she loves to squeal)

Here are some pictures of our sweet baby girl at 6 months!

Rice Cereal

2011-07-20T07:02:00.000-04:00

On Sunday, it was Caroline's 6 month birthday and we gave rice cereal a try. I think she thought it was okay. She would open her mouth for the spoon and half would go in and half would come back out. We'll keep trying and see what happens. I think we're going to try oatmeal this Thursday.

A picture before the fun started.

I can't wait for rice cereal.

Almost time...

What is this?

Big brother gets to feed me.

He did such a good job.

I don't know about this stuff...

not too bad...

Happy girl!!

Grami and Allie Visit

2011-07-20T06:52:00.000-04:00

Thursday of last week Grami and cousin Allie came over for a little visit. Colsen had so much fun playing with Allie and Allie loved seeing Caroline. We went to the pool one day and the park the next. It was a wonderful visit!

A picture of little Miss before Grami and Allie got to our house.

Sleepy girl

Having fun in the sun!

Little Fish

All ready for some fun in the sun.

Having so much fun!

Lots of splashes!

All relaxed on Grami

Fun at the park

Just hanging out!

Loving the swings

All Caught up!!

2011-07-13T07:25:00.002-04:00

Hopefully this time I can stay caught up!! Now time to get caught up on Shutterfly Enjoy all the new posts!!!

Slumber Party!!

2011-07-13T07:25:00.000-04:00

One afternoon last week, Colsen brought downstairs his pillow and Thomas blanket. He asked me to put Caroline on his pillow. They were so cute together!! Colsen really loves his baby sister and she can't get enough of him! She is always smiling and laughing when he is around!! They are going to have such a sweet relationship!!

Such a sweet picture!

Caroline at 4th of July

2011-07-13T07:21:00.000-04:00

After we had gotten home from Grami and Grandaddy's house I wanted to get a few pictures of Caroline in her cute July 4th outfit!!

Sweet Smile!! I love her bib!!

First Baseball Game

2011-07-13T07:19:00.000-04:00

Colsen went to his first baseball game over the July 4th weekend. Colsen, Daddy, Grandaddy and I went. Grami and Caroline stayed home. The weather was perfect and we all had great time watching the Greenville Drive take on the Hickory Crawdad's! I wish I had taken more pictures of Colsen with Daddy and Grandaddy. Next time...I know we will be back!!

Had to get a picture!

Colsen and his cotton candy!! That was the one thing he couldn't wait to eat!

Yummy Cotton Candy!! This little boy ate Mac & Cheese, Cotton Candy, Popcorn and Ice cream during the game. He loved it all!!

The Greenville Drive Stadium!

The Greenville Drive is a Double AA team that feeds into the Boston Red Sox and this is replica of the Green Monster.

Photo Shoots

2011-07-13T07:05:00.000-04:00

Over the July 4th weekend I took the opportunity to get some family pictures!! It's always nice to have an extra set of hands while trying to get the perfect shot!

Colsen and Caroline in their Stars and Stripes!!

Colsen loves to pat his sister's head and she doesn't seem to mind!!

Our sweet boy and girl!!

My favorite family picture!! I think it is so cute how Caroline is looking up to her big brother!!

A few pictures of Grami and Caroline!!

So sweet...

This is a framer for sure!! I love this picture!!

3 Generations!!

Great picture!!

I love that I'm the only one looking at the camera.

All pooped out after all the picture taking.

Cars 2 Movie

2011-07-13T06:55:00.000-04:00

While we were visiting Grami and Grandaddy at the lake over July 4th, Kyle and I took Colsen to see the movie Cars 2. Grami and Grandaddy watched Caroline for us. Colsen did great during the movie! He sat and ate his popcorn for about 1/2 of the movie and then sat in Daddy's lap for the rest. We all had a fun time!!

Enjoying his popcorn before the movie starts!

Had to get a few pictures with Colsen and the Cars 2 movie display!

Colsen and Lightening McQueen!! Such a cute picture!!

July 4th at the Lake

2011-07-13T06:49:00.000-04:00

We had a wonderful time at Grami and Grandaddy's house over the July 4th weekend. A BIG thank you to Grami and Grandaddy for having us. It was a WONDERFUL vacation!!!

Does this girl look like she is ready for solid foods? Just in case your wondering she is sucking on a piece of cantaloupe. We will be starting rice cereal on her 6 month birthday, July 17, which happens to be this Sunday.

Not to sure about this swinging in the swing...

It might not be too bad...

I think I might like it.

I think I really like it!!

Big smiles!!

As we all know Colsen loves to swing!

He could swing all day!!

Thank to Grami and Grandaddy who are more than willing to give him a push.

The calm, relaxing lake!!

The geese who are regular visitors.

No July 4th is complete without a flag cake! It was super yummy!!

Hanging out in the spa.

Caroline in her life jacket. She loved the water!!

Sweet girl was just relaxing...

Building a fire to roast marshmallows.

Gotta get the sticks...

Time for roasting...

Gotta get the marshmallows just right...

Time to eat!

Colsen LOVES marshmallows and can't get enough!!

Colsen and Daddy having fun!!

Being silly!!

Grandaddy had gotten a few fireworks for the evening! They were perfect and Colsen loved them!!

Colsen wasn't a fan of the ones that made noise.

Me and my little man!!

Daddy giving some pointers about throwing a baseball.

We had a wonderful time at the lake!! It was so much fun to get away!! Thank you so much Grami and Grandaddy for having us!!!

Swimming Lessons!

2011-07-10T12:20:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago Colsen had his show and tell at swimming lessons. His teacher, Ms. Shawnee is wonderful at making him feel so confident in the water. He is doing so well and Kyle and I are so proud of him!!

Swimming to Ms. Shawnee.

Back Floating

Our little fish!!

Bath Time!!

2011-07-10T12:16:00.000-04:00

Caroline can now take a bath sitting up in the bath tub with a little help. Colsen was so excited to take a bath with Caroline. I can see many more of these baths in the future.

Kate's Birthday

2011-07-10T12:14:00.000-04:00

We had so much fun celebrating Kate's birthday! She had her birthday party at her house with a water jump jump to play on. It was such a fun party!!

The birthday girl with her face painted!

Colsen having a blast!!

Happy Birthday, Kate!!

Toys!

2011-07-10T08:49:00.000-04:00

Here are a few pictures of Caroline enjoying her toys.

She LOVES to look at herself in the mirror on the swing.

Can't get enough of that smile!

This just cracks me up...

During the high point of her teething she would lay on her activity mat and try to grab the toy with her mouth. It was so funny!

Loving her swing!

Having fun in her excersaucer!

Father's Day

2011-07-10T08:44:00.001-04:00

We had a wonderful father's day! We went to church and then had a relaxing day at home!!

Daddy with his precious 2!!

Daddy and his little man!

Caroline at 5 Months

2011-07-10T08:41:00.001-04:00

It's hard to believe that our sweet girl is 5 months and will soon be 6 months. Caroline is sleeping 12 hours at night. She goes to bed between 6:30 and 7 and wakes up around 7:30 the next morning. She is starting to get into a napping schedule of one nap in the morning and one in the afternoon. She is nursing 4 to 5 times a day and we think she is really looking forward to starting solid foods. That will happen next month. She has two bottom teeth. That really shocked us. We thought she might be teething during month 4 because her hands were always in her mouth but it seemed really early to be getting teeth. When the first tooth popped up it explained alot and then the second one came. Caroline rolls over both forwards and backwards and has now found her feet and loves to put them in her mouth. It is so cute to see! She wears a size 2 diaper and size 6 month clothes. Caroline is such an easy baby and just goes with the flow. We feel so blessed!! Here is our precious baby girl at 5 months!!

I Love My Excersaucer!!

2011-07-08T22:22:00.000-04:00

While Grami was here we got Caraline a new excersaucer because our other one was in pretty bad shape. Caroline loves it and so do I!! Thanks Grami and Grandaddy!!

Caroline loves to look at faces and here she is looking at the frogs face.

Miss January

2011-07-08T22:19:00.000-04:00

This onsie is so cute that I had to get a few pictures!! I'm not sure how to turn the pictures once I have downloaded them to Blogger.

Caroline can now pull her toes to her mouth. It is the cutest thing to watch her suck on her feet.

Wheelbarrow Fun!

2011-07-08T22:17:00.000-04:00

Colsen got a wheelbarrow from Lolly and Gran for his birthday! One afternoon we headed outside and have some wheelbarrow fun!!

Throwing a stick!

Boys and sticks just go together.

Bath Time!

2011-07-08T22:15:00.000-04:00

While Darci was here she gave Caroline a bath and that meant I got to take some cute pictures!!

This is one of the last times Caroline is taking a bath in her bath tub in the kitchen sink.

Splish, Splash!!

Our little bunny!!

She is too cute for words!!

Darci Comes to Visit

2011-07-08T22:11:00.000-04:00

One of my best friends came to visit and hang out with us! We had a wonderful time and I'm so glad and thankful she was able to come. I only wish I was able to get a picture of her and I. Next time...

Sweet Caroline

Colsen making Caroline smile.

One picture before we head to the pool.

Darci and Caroline!

Darci and Colsen and Caroline!!

Pictures with Lolly

2011-07-08T22:08:00.000-04:00

Before Lolly left to go back to Houston we took the opportunity to take a few pictures!!

Lolly and her little man!!

One happy boy!!

Such a sweet face!!

One with Lolly and Colsen and Caroline.

Lolly and her sweet girl!

Caroline was getting a little fussy so Lolly was able to calm her down.

More Presents!

2011-07-08T22:04:00.000-04:00

After nap time, Colsen had a few more gifts to open. Some from Lolly and Gran and from Kyle, Caroline and I. He was super excited!!

All ready for the birthday boy!!

Lolly and Gran gave Colsen some really cute books.

What could this be...

Thomas' coaches, Annie and Clarabel!

Thanks Lolly...I love trains!!

What's in here...

Colsen's very own space suit. This is just like the astronauts wear. This is even more special since the space program is shutting down. Thanks Lolly and Gran!!

A Thomas book!!

Mommy and Daddy gave Colsen a bike!!

We can't wait for him to ride it!!

Lolly had a great idea of taking some pictures with his 4 balloon. They turned out so cute!!

One of my favorites!!

Opening Presents!

2011-07-08T21:57:00.000-04:00

After the party family came over to watch Colsen open all his gifts!! His friends and family were very generous!!

Such a sweet face!!

Colsen's Birthday Party

2011-07-08T21:55:00.000-04:00

Colsen had his party this year at at Sports Connection!! It is such a fun place with all kinds of activities to do. Colsen's party took place in the jump jump area. He had a blast with all his friends!!

Lolly came to visit the Thursday before his party on Saturday. Of course the first thing he wanted to do was make sugar cookies. One of the best parts is licking the spatula.

Colsen and Lolly making cookies!

Party Time!!

Thank you Aunt Rachel for taking such great pictures!

Grami and sweet Caroline hangin' out!

Whee....

Lolly giving sweet Caroline a bottle.

The Party Room!!

Colsen's cake!! He had seen this cake every time we had been to the grocery store and he was super excited to have it has his birthday party!

Eating yummy pizza!!

Kyle had noticed on the info. sticker on the cake box that this Thomas cake weighed as much a Colsen did when he was born 2 lbs. 10 oz. We thought how cool is that!! God is so good and we are so THANKFUL for his blessings!!

Mommy and Daddy with our sweet little boy!! Can't believe he's 4!!

THOMAS...

Blowing out the candles...

Yummy cake... Happy birthday, Colsen!!

Last Day of School

2011-07-08T21:45:00.000-04:00

The first day of school.

And now the last. I can't believe how fast the year went!! I had an AMAZING year and I am so thankful for that!!

Colsen wanted me to get a picture of him with his Spiderman car.

Colsen with his two AMAZING and FANTASTIC teachers!! We are going to miss Ms. Cindy and Ms. Amy!!

Bumbo Fun!

2011-07-08T21:41:00.000-04:00

Caroline looks so cute just hangin' out in her Bumbo! I can't get enough of her sweet little feet!!

End of School Picnic

2011-07-08T21:40:00.000-04:00

Colsen's class at school had a end of year picnic and all the parents and siblings were invited. Caroline and I had a great time and it was fun to watch Colsen having such a fun time with his friends!

Colsen enjoying his Sprite-his favorite drink.

Hangin' out with his buddies!

Little Sister just chillin'

Colsen loving his end of year gift from his teachers.

WOW!! Toy Story!!

Colsen and Kate!! They are such good buddies!!

Me and my little man!! Doesn't he look thrilled to be getting his picture taken.

Water Fight!

2011-07-07T22:11:00.003-04:00

One Sunday afternoon while Caroline was taking a nap Colsen, Kyle and I spent some time outside having a water fight with squirters. We had a fun time. Colsen had much more fun squirting Kyle and I rather than getting squirted.

So Cute!

2011-07-07T22:00:00.006-04:00

While I fold laundry in the laundry room Caroline is in her carrier playing with her frog and duck. She loves to grab the duck's bill and put it in her mouth. It's so cute!!

So cute!! I'm not sure why the picture is turned.

Our little cupcake!!

Tummy Time

2011-07-07T21:53:00.004-04:00

Making Cookies

2011-07-07T21:43:00.006-04:00

Over the weeks before his birthday we would ask Colsen what he wanted to do on his birthday and he would always answer I want to make sugar cookies and that's exactly what we did!

Setting out all the ingredients.

Mixing the sugar and butter.

Time to add the flour.

The best part...licking the beater.

Cutting the cookies.

Ready for the oven.

Mommy...when do I get to eat them?

YUMMY!!

Colsen's 4th Birthday!

2011-07-07T21:20:00.010-04:00

Colsen woke up on his 4th birthday to lots of fun surprises!! Kyle and I waited to do birthday presents until Kyle could be home to watch him open them. Instead we came up with the idea of making a basket of Colsen's favorite foods. He was so excited!! He also had a fun day at school celebrating with his friends and teachers! He had a party at one of his favorite places a few weeks after his actual birthday. A post is coming soon.

Ready for the Birthday boy!

Colsen favorite food basket

The birthday boy!!

Checking out his basket

MINTS!!!!

Colsen LOVES his mints!!!!

Birthday donut!!

Happy Birthday!!

Blowing out the candles

Eating his favorite yogurt, Banana Split!

One picture before we leave for school.

The sign outside Colsen's classroom.

Not only was it Colsen's birthday but it was also Colsen's special day. When I walked in Ms. Cindy was reading a story and Colsen got to sit right next to her. It was so cute!

Colsen's yummy cupcake cake!!

The birthday boy and his cake.

Colsen was so shy while his friends and teachers sang Happy Birthday to him.

Enjoying his cake.

The birthday boy and his teachers Ms. Cindy and Ms. Amy.

Our special boy!! I can't believe he's 4!

Opening cards

He loves Thomas!

Colsen's babysitters, Sarah and Olivia came over to give him a present.

Allie's Birthday Weekend

2011-07-07T20:52:00.007-04:00

Over the weekend of May 21st, Colsen, Caroline and I along with Grami and Grandaddy headed down to Auburn to celebrate Allie's 6th birthday. Ryan, Rachel and Audrey were also there. We had a great time hanging out and celebrating Allie!!

Our little flower!

Colsen loved playing with his squirter!!

Happy 6th Birthday, Allie!!

Water balloon fight!!

Yummy Cake!!

The Smiths'

Grami and Grandaddy with all the kids and Haley the dog!! Trying to get a picture of 4 kids and a dog is a little tricky.

All partied out!!

4 Months!!

2011-07-07T20:45:00.002-04:00

Caroline is 4 months and time is flying by!!

I can't believe I'm 4 months!!

Pretty Girl!

2011-07-07T20:37:00.002-04:00

One Sunday after church Caroline looked so pretty in her dress that I had to get some pictures. Thank you Uncle Clark, Aunt Barbara, Frances and Rymer for the adorable dress!

Such a sweet girl!!

Happy Anniversary!!!!

2011-06-01T06:21:00.004-04:00

Happy 6 years to the most amazing man!! I am so blessed that I get to walk this journey of marriage with you!! I love you so much and respect all that you do to take care of our family!! I'm so excited to see what the future holds!!

P.S. I have lots of new posts coming, Allie's birthday, Colsen's birthday, and end of school. Check back next week and hopefully I will be caught up.

Happy Birthday, Colsen!!!!!

2011-05-24T06:42:00.000-04:00

Mommy and Daddy can't believe you are 4 years old!!!! You are an amazing little boy and we are beyond blessed that we get to be your Mommy and Daddy. We thank God for you everyday!!

Happy 4th Birthday!!! We love you so much!!!!

Bumbo Time!

2011-05-15T15:20:00.001-04:00

Caroline has been doing such a good job keeping her head up and she keeps wanting to sit up that Kyle and I finally decided that it was time to get the Bumbo and try it out. At first Caroline wasn't sure what to think but she did great and even gave us a smile.

I'm not so sure what to think about sitting up.

This is kinda weird.

I think I might kinda like sitting up.

Look at me I can sit up in my Bumbo!!!

Yeah for me!!

Mother's Day and Baby Dedication

2011-05-15T15:13:00.000-04:00

We had a wonderful time celebrating Mother's day and Caroline's baby dedication with Grami and Grandaddy! They got to our house around lunch time on Saturday. The weather was perfect so we had a great time being outside. Kyle was at school so he didn't get home until Saturday evening. On Sunday we headed to church then came home and rested for a little bit and then had lunch. It was then time to get ready for Caroline's dedication. Before we headed back up to the church I wanted to get a chance to get some family pictures. It's rare for us to all be dressed up and have someone else who can take the pictures to I wanted to take full advantage. Plus, I wasn't sure how it would go at the church once we got there. The dedication was wonderful, our church did an amazing job of organizing it!! It was a wonderful time for Kyle and I to commit to raising Caroline in a Christian home just as we had done 3 years ago with Colsen. We feel very blessed to be a part of a church that is such a support to us. It was a wonderful Mother's day and I'm so glad Grami and Grandaddy were able to spend it with us!!

Colsen and Grami having fun in the Jump Jump.

2 points for Colsen.

Grandaddy hanging out with Caroline.

Heading down the slide.

That was fun...

Colsen wanted Caroline to get on the jump jump so Grami helps her out.

Carline-I'm not so sure about this.

Caroline-you want me to go down the slide?

Caroline-this isn't so bad.

Grami and Caroline

Our family picture. Aren't we cute!

Me and my 2 loves.

Me and my precious little girl!

Big Brother and Little Sister

They are too cute for words!

Daddy and Colsen

Caroline joins the group.
Love the picture with Grami and Grandaddy.

Our table at the dedication. So cute!

Mommy and Daddy with our girl!
While we were in another room waiting for the dedication to start Grami got a few pictures of Colsen and the lamb.

This was the only picture with the Pastor. There really wasn't a good place to sit to get a good shot.

Kyle held Caroline during the dedication and she ended up falling asleep. It was so sweet, I had to get a picture.

All worn out!

Colsen enjoying his piece of cake. It looked really good but Kyle and I are on diets so no cake for us.

After the ceremony, Grandaddy holds precious Caroline.

Still sleeping...

She wakes up and wonders where her cake is.

It was such a fun day!!

Mother's Day Ice Cream Party

2011-05-06T10:48:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday of this week, I was invited to Colsen's class for a Mother's day ice cream party. I was very excited to come. Colsen met me at his classroom door and handed me a hand made corsage. He then showed me to the table and pulled out my chair for me to sit. It was the sweetest thing. At my spot I had made for me a beautiful painted flower pot. The flowers and butterfly's were made using his finger prints. Inside the flower pot was a butterfly. The body of the butterfly was a picture of Colsen and the wings were hands shaped in love position in sign language. Since it was an ice cream party the children got to go up and tell Ms. Cindy and Ms. Amy what toppings they thought their mom would like on the vanilla ice cream. When it was his turn to go up and make my ice cream sundae he chose chocolate syrup and sprinkles. No whip cream or cherries for me. He was so sweet to bring me such a delicious treat!! After all the moms had been served the kids were able to have their ice cream. While in the classroom all the moms noticed these pictures of what we thought were pictures of us that the kids had created. The problem was their were no names on them. While the kids were eating their ice cream sundaes, Ms. Cindy and Ms. Amy read a description and we as moms would have to guess which mom Ms. Cindy or Ms. Amy were talking about. It was such a fun game. This was the description that Ms. Cindy read aloud to me.

This Mommy is 41 years old.
This Mommy has black hair.
This Mommy's favorite food is grilled cheese.
In her spare time, this Mommy enjoys...my mommy likes to play my trains.
My Mommy is happy when she playing with me.
My Mommy carries some stuff, a blanket, and her phone in the purse.
I love my Mommy because I like her.
My Mommy's name is Mama, Mama!

After all the descriptions were read the children got up and sang some songs for us. We also got to do the Tutty Ta dance with the children. I had such a fun time spending the afternoon with my little man!! Thank you Colsen for all the wonderful surprises and fun. I will never forget it!!

Colsen holds up his butterfly flowerpot. It was supper cute!!

Sitting so patiently for his name to be called for ice cream.

Making my ice cream sundae!

My very sweet boy and my super yummy sundae!!
Colsen enjoying his ice cream!!

This is the picture that Colsen made of me and the description is on the back. I love this little boy so much and I am so blessed to be his mom!!

Our Little Princess

2011-05-06T10:19:00.001-04:00

A week ago Friday was the Royal wedding. So in honor of that event I dressed Caroline in her tiarra onesie and tutu. She looked so cute that I had to snap a few pictures. Here's our little Princess!!

Really mom...do we really need to take pictures?

Caroline loves to look at her feet. It is the cutest thing.

Look...I can stick my whole hand in my mouth. Not really but it sure does look like she could.

Happy Wedding day!!

Caroline Finds her Thumb

2011-05-06T10:14:00.000-04:00

Caroline has found her thumb. No more pacifer's for her...she has a permanent one. Here are a few pictures of our sweet girl with her thumb.

Floor and Tummy Time

2011-05-05T07:34:00.000-04:00

Here are a few pictures of Caroline enjoying her activity mat and having some tummy time.

Colsen tries to get Caroline to roll over. It was so cute!! He really loves his baby sister!!

Trying to roll over. She rolled over for the first time on Easter.

All worn out!

Our sweet boy!

Easter 2011

2011-05-05T07:30:00.000-04:00

The Braden family had a very relaxing Easter! We went to church Easter morning. It was Caroline's first time and she did great!! It was a wonderful service. Kyle and I both loved the music! I was so glad I had already taken pictures of the kids in their Easter clothes because there was no way that was going to happen and make it to church on time or even close to on time. We will taken pictures this weekend as a family for Caroline's dedication at church. After church we came home and changed clothes and had a yummy brunch of breakfast burritos and fruit. While we were eating lunch the Easter bunny quietly came and had filled Colsen's and Caroline's baskets with fun stuff. Colsen said the Easter bunny did a great job with with basket. He loved everything in it! We had a wonderful day relaxing as a family and more importantly praising God for his amazing gift of His son, Jesus who rose from the grave!!

Little Miss looking so cute in her Easter bunny pj's!

Colsen getting ready to check out his basket that the Easter bunny had left at the front door.

The Easter bunny did good...

Look at all those fun things!!

The Yogi Bear movie. This is the first movie Colsen went to see.

One happy boy!

The Easter bunny dropped this off for Caroline.

Sweet girl and her basket.

Our precious girl!! She looks so pretty in pink!

A picture of Caroline and Colsen's baskets before they go up for another year.

Jake's Birthday

2011-05-05T07:07:00.000-04:00

Jake's 4th birthday was the Saturday before Easter. Jake's dad, Andy is a pilot so Jake's birthday party was at at the same hanger of the plane he flies. It was so fun getting to see a private plane up close. We also got to see a helicopter and a airport fire truck. It was a really fun day and Colsen had a blast celebrating Jake's birthday!

A World War 2 Plane-It was also in the hanger.

Colsen with his buddy Kate.

Kate and another plane in the hanger.

On our way to go see the helicopter and the fire truck.

The very cool Med helicopter.

It was so cool that the kids were able to go inside.

Colsen was a little shy.

The airport fire truck. The truck was so big that it was a little tough to get the whole thing in the picture.

Colsen in the cockpit.

Checking everything out.

So cute...

A look inside the plane.

This is pretty much like the plane our friend Andy flies. Kyle was so sad he wasn't able to go to Jake's birthday. He had school that weekend. Kyle LOVES planes and flying!

Easter Bunny Visit

2011-05-03T16:06:00.000-04:00

Grandaddy, Colsen, Caroline and I went to the Anderson mall to go get Colsen and Caroline's picture taken with the Easter Bunny. It took quite a bit of convincing but Colsen finally got up on the bench and got his picture taken with the Easter bunny along with Caroline. Grandaddy and I were so proud of him. He even smiled for the camera. After the picture taking we headed to the carousel (that Colsen had seen on our way to the Easter Bunny) so that Colsen could have a ride. He of course loved it. We finished up our trip with a yummy Chick-fil-a lunch! Thank you Granddaddy for going with us and for helping out!!

Before we left the house Caroline had fallen asleep in Grandaddy's arms. Her position was so cute that I had to get a picture.

She's out!!

Our 2011 Easter Bunny Picture

The rabbit was Colsen's choice. His ears came from the Easter Bunny.

Easter Clothes

2011-05-03T15:57:00.000-04:00

While at Grami and Grandaddy's house I thought it would be a good idea to get some pictures of the kids in their Easter clothes. I knew that trying to get pictures Easter morning would be very difficult especially trying to make it to church on time. We were late to church Easter morning so I was so glad I took these pictures ahead of time. Thank you Grami for all your help!!!

Looking super thrilled to be getting his picture taken.

Close up of our sweet boy!

So handsome!!

Now some outside shots.

Such a cute expression.

Sweet kisses!

This is my favorite. This is the only one where both kids are smiling at the same time.

Colsen loves to touch Caroline's head.

Sweet girl!!

About ready to smile.

There it is...so sweet!

Caroline has such a beautiful smile!!

Eyes wide open...and by this point she was about done getting her picture taken.

Children's Museum

2011-05-02T15:40:00.000-04:00

On Tuesday Grami, Grandaddy, Colsen, Caroline and I all headed to Greenville, SC to the Children's museum. It was FANTASTIC!!! The museum had all kinds of fun activities for Colsen to do!! He had such a great time and we did too!

Grocery shopping

Can't forget the Ranch. He loves ranch with his carrots.

Little Miss just was in her carrier just watching all the people go by.

This was so cool...Colsen was a crane operator.

On his way to the work site.

Scooping up some rocks. The rocks were made out of rubber. They looked so real.

Picking up some carrots.

Using the wheel barrow to harvest his carrots!!

He loved this wheel barrow and would not let anyone have it or his carrots.

This is where Mommy and Caroline hung out for part of the time.

A life sized light bright! It was so cool...

Driving a garbage/recycling truck.

So much fun!!

A quick pic. of Grami, Grandaddy and Caroline! She was so good the entire time we were there!! Thanks Grandaddy for pushing her around!!

Splash time!!

Colsen had such a fun time and we can't wait to go back!!

Fun at Grami and Grandaddy's House

2011-05-02T15:18:00.000-04:00

The week before Easter was Colsen's Spring Break at school. We decided it would be fun to go visit Grami and Grandaddy at the lake. We left after swimming lessons on Monday and we came back Thursday afternoon. We had a fun time hanging out and the weather couldn't have been more perfect! Thanks Grami and Grandaddy for having us and we can't wait to come back!!

All smiles as Grami pushes Colsen. I wish the picture was in focus but, oh well.

Caroline tries out the swing...she's still a little small but next time we're at the lake it will fit just right.

Kisses for Caroline

Colsen and a stick...nothing better!

Climbing the rock wall!!

Almost to the top.

He made it!! Yeah Colsen!!

Caroline loves to sleep on people...Grami was just right person!

Big helper...Colsen uses the net to get leaves out of the spa.

3 Months

2011-05-02T15:04:00.000-04:00

It's hard to believe that Caroline is already 3 months old! Time is just flying by. She is now around 13 lbs according to our home scale. She is wearing size 2 diapers and eating around 6 times a day. I am proud to say that she is sleeping through the night. She goes down around 10:30 and doesn't wake up until about 7:30! She is a great night time sleeper but not a great nap during the day sleeper. We are going to continue to work on that. She has the biggest smile that melts our hearts and she is on her way to rolling over. She is such a wonderful blessing and we can't wait to she how she grows at 4 months!!

Easter Egg Hunt at the Reiselt's

2011-04-27T23:48:00.000-04:00

On a Friday a few weeks ago we headed over to the Reiselt's house for a get together. We thought it would be fun for the boys to have a Easter egg hunt. They had a great time and the adults had a fun time watching them search for eggs!

Colsen and Hunter on a search.

Look how many I have...

Look at all my eggs!

Buddies!!

Checking out the eggs!

Next year maybe Caroline will get to hunt too.

Group shot!

Easter Parade at School

2011-04-27T23:40:00.000-04:00

Colsen's shcool puts on an Easter parade each year. The children walk around the school in their themed outfits! Colsen's teachers did such a fantastic job. The theme was Powered by the SON!! They made t-shirts with the sun made out of the children's handprints. They wore sunglasses and summer shoes. The Children looked ADORABLE!!

Colsen's class during the parade.

Our sweet boy!

This is what Caroline was doing during the parade.

I love a good parade!

Second time around!!

Class picture time!!

Trying to get 15 boys and girls to look at the same time is nearly impossible.

This little bunny has had enough!!

I don't think she's a fan of her bunny outfit!

Precious Sleeping Baby Part 2

2011-04-27T23:31:00.000-04:00

I've said before that I love sleeping babies. They are so sweet and precious! I couldn't resist getting a few pics.

First Ring Pop and Photo Shoot

2011-04-27T23:29:00.000-04:00

Colsen got a ring pop in his goody bag from a birthday party he had gone to. He was so cute with his ring pop that I had to get some pictures. The lighting was so good that I also got some cute head shots. And yes I know he needed a haircut and it wasn't long after this picture was taken that he got one.

Kids in Motion

2011-04-27T23:25:00.000-04:00

One Sunday afternoon in March we headed to the Southpark area to attend the Junior League's fundraiser Kids in Motion. They had all kinds of trucks to look at as well as, jump jumps and food to enjoy. We had a fun time and the weather couldn't have been better!

Kyle and Colsen on the Train.

Having fun on the train!

Colsen loving his popcorn!

Daddy giving a lift.

Look at me!

So handsome!!

Carolina Panther!

Our sweet boy!

In the scooper part of the truck.

This gives great perspective on how big that scooper was.

Caroline Joy Photo Shoot Part 4 and 5

2011-04-27T23:16:00.000-04:00

While Sarah was still visiting I took the opportunity to have her help me get some really cute shots. Some of my favorites are the ones with Caroline and Colsen. They are so cute together. He is such a protective big brother and he loves her so much!!

Such a cutie!!

Sweet Girl!

I love those sweet cheeks!

My precious children!

I love them so much!!

Colsen helps Caroline with tummy time! She's not a huge fan.

Splish, Splash!

Before Aunt Sarah left we took a few pictures.

My little girl!

mommy, what are you doing?

I love baby feet!

Mommy, I'm sleepy...no more pictures.

It wasn't two seconds later that she fell asleep.

This is her favorite way to sleep.

Had to get a few pictures in her froggy sleeper.

She is so cute!

Look at that face...about to get fussy.

And she's out!

And later that day...I love her froggy legs in her froggy sleeper.

Precious!

Aunt Sarah Visits

2011-04-26T23:28:00.000-04:00

Aunt Sarah came for a visit and brought Colsen a fun new game!! He LOVES playing Hungry, Hungry Hippos and he's really good at the game. Thanks, Aunt Sarah!!

Night, Night

2011-04-26T23:24:00.000-04:00

Here are a couple of pictures of Caroline sleeping so peacefully in her bed!! Night, night sweet baby girl!

Rocket Ship PJ's

2011-04-26T23:22:00.000-04:00

Colsen LOVES his rocket ship PJ's!! Thank you Gran and Lolly!!

Ready to brush my teeth!!

Night Night!!

Special Delivery from Gran and Lolly

2011-04-26T23:20:00.000-04:00

One day after nap, Colsen got a special delivery from Gran and Lolly!! He was super excited and couldn't wait to see what inside.

Summer rocket ship PJ's...Just what wanted and needed!!

Thanks Gran and Lolly!! You're the BEST!!!

St Patty's Day, Bath, and Aunt Rachel and Audrey Visit

2011-04-26T23:17:00.000-04:00

We are so very lucky!!

Bath Time!!

Caroline loves her baths!

We love having Aunt Rachel and Audrey come visit us!!

Fun times on the activity mat!!

Caroline at 2 Months

2011-04-26T23:13:00.000-04:00

At 2 months Caroline is becoming more and more active and she is beginning to smile that can totally melt your heart!! She is only getting up once a night to feed and is close sleeping all the way through the night. She is such a wonderful baby!! We feel so blessed!! Here are her 2 month stats:

Weight 11 lbs 3 oz 44%
Height 22 1/2" 34%
Head 16" 95%

Caroline Joy Photo Shoot Part 2 and 3

2011-04-26T00:07:00.000-04:00

Here are some pictures I took when Caroline and I had some free time. She is getting so expessive!! She is such a little cutie!!

Is that a smile?

This is one of the very first smiles I caught with the camera!! Such a pretty girl!!

Little Otter

2011-04-26T00:02:00.000-04:00

For about a month now Colsen has been taking swimming lessons at Little Otter. He goes once a week for 30 min. He is doing so well and Kyle and I are so proud of him!! It was show and tell day so I was able to get some pictures of all the great things he's learning.

Miss Shawnee is such a wonderful and patient teacher!

Floating...

About to go down the little otter slide!

Colsen gets to gown the slide after every lesson.

This is what little Miss does during the lesson.

Caroline Joy Photo Shoot

2011-04-25T23:56:00.000-04:00

One day while Colsen was at school, I was able to have a little photo shoot with Caroline!!

I love the little Maryjane shoes built in to the sleeper.

Looking at the fan hanging from the ceiling...Whoa what's that?

It's really cool

Mini Me

There's no denying it Caroline looks just like me...It's scary!

Precious Sleeping Baby

2011-04-25T23:51:00.000-04:00

To me there's nothing sweeter than a sleeping baby. Here are some of our sweet girl!!

This one cracks me up!

Caroline's First Play Date

2011-04-25T23:48:00.000-04:00

Caroline had her first playdate with Granger! He and his mom, Cassie came over to our house to play. Granger was born one week after Caroline. It was so cute to see them play. Here are some pictures from the date.

Having fun under the activity mat.

Going for a Bike Ride

2011-04-25T23:44:00.000-04:00

One day in early March the weather was so nice that we all went on a walk to the cul-de-sac behind us. Colsen did such a great job with his tricycle that Kyle and I think we need to get him a bike for his birthday.

Ready to ride!

Off he goes!!

Such a big boy!!

Such a big boy...growing up so fast!!

Daddy's Birthday

2011-04-25T23:40:00.000-04:00

We celebrated Daddy's birthday on Saturday night when he got home from school! Colsen was so excited and picked out Daddy's cake!! It was so much fun to Celebrate and the cake was so yummy!! Happy Birthday, Daddy!!!! We love you!!!!

Daddy and his precious boy!!

Daddy and his sweet little girl!!

Silly Daddy!!

Caroline 1 Month Old

2011-04-25T23:35:00.000-04:00

It is hard to believe that our precious girl is already one month. She is such a blessing and a GREAT baby!! Caroline loves to snuggle with others especially when she's sleepy. She's not a huge paci baby. She can have huge spit ups but because she's not very fussy and she's gaining weight she's considered a happy spitter. She nurses around 8 times a day. Her last feeding is between 11:30 and midnight and she'll wake up around 3 and then again around 7. She's still wearing newborn diapers but not for much longer. Here are her stats:

Weight 8lb 1 oz 7%
Height 22" 59%
Head 14 1/2 20%

She is very healthy and we again feel so grateful for God's goodness and provision!!!! Here are some pictures from the little photo shoot we did with her. Thank you to Uncle Ryan, Aunt Rachel and Audrey for the beautiful chair!!

Not in the mood.

I'm 1 month

Look how cute I am.

Not a happy camper...

Sweet Caroline and Big Brother Too

2011-04-25T18:29:00.000-04:00

Here are some cute pictures of our sweet baby girl and big brother!!

These pictures were taken one day when Coslen was at school!! Caroline is so precious...we are having so much fun with her!!

Bear bottom!!

How lovely that I was able to capture her spitting up.

Look at those sweet cheeks!!

so cute in Polka dots!!

Caroline loves to sleep on people and here she is with Grami.

I Love seeing sleeping babies!! So precious!!

Daddy's Little Angel!!

I love this picture!!

Big brother and his Thomas Flashlight!!

On our way to the Dr. for Caroline's one month check up. She did great!!

Colsen showing Caroline his Thomas Flashlight!! She was really listening to him. It was so cute!

Look at those cheeks...I could just eat them up!!