Caroline Brooke Garner

First Day of School (Pre K 4)

2011-09-02T18:02:00.000-07:00

Another school year starts again.

Caroline was so excited to start Pre K 4

She even picked out her own clothes.

She did not want us to walk her in, Miss Independent. Finally we convinced her that if she let us go in for the first day that she could walk in by herself all of the other days.

Last Hurrah!

2011-09-02T17:28:00.000-07:00

Jake and Caroline took a couple of days and headed over to Valdosta to go to Wild Adventures. Caroline started school the next week so this blog is appropriately titled "Last Hurrah!" They both had a blast and I am so jealous I did not get to go.

Caroline's 4th birthday parties

2011-09-02T12:29:00.000-07:00

Caroline had a friends party at Chick-fil-a.

And a family party at Jake's parents house.

Atlanta for Caroline's 4th birthday

2011-09-02T11:38:00.000-07:00

Jake was in Atlanta working so Caroline and I drove up for a long weekend so we could celebrate her birthday together.

Caroline met John Isner.

Caroline took this picture of Jake's match.

The morning of Caroline's birthday she got to open her presents.

She got a princess sleeping bag she had been asking for.

She also got a karokee machine!

That night we went to the Cheesecake Factory for birthday dinner.

Sunday we went to the chirldrens museum which is Caroline's favorite place in Atlanta.

Next we went across the street and watched the Olympic Rings fountain in Centential Park.

Even more misc.

2011-09-02T10:41:00.000-07:00

At the beach.

My poor, pathetic, sick kid.

Saying goodbye at the airport

Girls Weekend #2

2011-09-02T10:34:00.000-07:00

For our 2nd girls weekend we flew to Raleigh, North Carolina to see Kristin and meet up with Mary Hall and Cathy.

We went to DUKE!

I showed Caroline why we named our dog Cameron!

She even got to go inside.

American Tabacco in Durham.

It rained on the 4th of July, but we made the best of it and did our own fireworks in the front yard.

I love this kid!

Girls Weekend #1

2011-09-02T09:43:00.000-07:00

Our first girls weekend of 2011 was in Gulf Shores, Alabama with Robin, Paulan, Mesha and Summer. We brought the kids and had a fun time at the beach!

More misc and maclay

2011-09-02T09:03:00.000-07:00

Mother's day cupcakes (homemade carrot cake)!

Reading on the couch

Caroline was chosen to participate at the Maclay Preschool ground breaking.

Pre K 3 classes at the end of the year party.

Mrs. Marschall, Caroline and Mrs. Billings.

Last day of school!

Tee Ball

2011-09-02T08:45:00.000-07:00

Caroline played tee ball with 2 of her great friends, Mattox and Peyton. They all had a great time learning to field the ball, throw, catch, and hit. She can't wait to play again next year. Watch the video below (sorry its sideways!)

Maclay Art Show

2011-09-02T08:09:00.000-07:00

Caroline's Pre K 3 class put on an art show for the parents. They greated us with smailes and a song.

The theme was Florida so there was an orange tree...

trees in the forest...

Sunsets...

and CUTE kids!

Easter

2011-09-02T07:49:00.000-07:00

Lots to do around Easter. Check out our pictures!

Maclay Easter Party

Easter at Do's

Baby Ryker and Cody

Easter at Granddaddy's

Baby Livvy came up to celebrate with us!

Misc. posts

2011-09-02T07:09:00.000-07:00

Text and drive-
Caroline suggests you not text and drive. If you do it, she will yell at you!

Pies-
Caroline asked if we could make a blueberry pie...so we did! We made a strawberry pie too!

Showers-
Caroline would prefer to take showers instead of baths. She is growing up so fast!

Mamma Mia-
Ask Caroline her favorite movie and she will say Mamma Mia! She went over to Aunt Debbie's one day to play and when I picked her up she already new all of the songs. We have since downloaded the album and it is all she wants to listen to.

Welcome Ryker!

2011-09-02T06:22:00.000-07:00

Travis and Allie welcomed their son Henry Ryker Tackett at 12:41 am on Feburary 24, 2011.
He weighed 6lbs 10oz and was 21 inches long.

hot air balloon ride

2011-09-01T18:37:00.000-07:00

In March, Ed and I surprised Jake and Kate with a hot air balloon ride in Tallahassee. The morning started out very early and with some not great weather, at least for a balloon ride. A couple of hours later, we found a good wind pattern and took off. We started off with a low ride over Maclay and then Lake Hall. We ended up flying over Killearn Estates and over I-10. We ended the trip off highway 90 by Bucklake. It was a beautiful morning and a fun first for all of us!

Disney 2011

2011-09-01T18:24:00.000-07:00

Our Family Disney trip started off with...

Animal Kingdom!

Then Epcot!

Then Magic Kingdom!

And finally Hollywood Studios!

More Maclay pics

2011-09-01T18:23:00.000-07:00

The kids went to an assisted living facility on Valentines Day to sing songs with their 5th grade buddies.

All year long, the parents of Caroline's class have been reading each morning to the kids. Our goal was to reach 100 books and we did it! Scholastic book company will now donate 100 books to a needy school.

Cute pic to share

2011-01-28T18:50:00.001-08:00

Gasparilla Childrens Parade

2011-01-28T18:30:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we traveled to Tampa to visit family and friends. We met our cousins Sullivan "Liv" (4 weeks) and Callen (4 months).

We also saw our friends Cathy and Grayson Kamm and Mary Hall Lester. We got up Saturday and hung around the house for the morning and made cute foam pirate hats for all of us. We then went to my favorite Tampa restaurant, Datz. I tried my first Banh Mi sandwich (Traditional Vietnamese Sandwich) and it was delish! We then went to the Gasparilla Children's parade and Caroline caught a lot of beads (see pics below). We had a sleepover at Cathy's Saturday night and we watched "Good Luck Charlie."

So long Kitch, Hello Anna

2011-01-24T18:03:00.000-08:00

Caroline has lots of imaginary friends. We have had Chloe and Cody for a little over a year, but lately our family has grown. We have adopted Addison, Thomas and Kitch in the past couple of months. Caroline informed me today that Kitch has gone to live with her parents, Ouvie and Cole, and we would pick her back up when we go to Disney in February. We now have Anna and "she is a sweet girl."

I was then told a couple of hours later that she missed Kitch and wanted to go get her. She walked over to her doll house told Ouvie and Cole that she wanted Kitch back and put her in the bed.

New Years

2010-12-28T20:20:00.001-08:00

Jake, Caroline and I went to Baton Rouge for New Years. We got to meet Paulan and Bobby's baby girl Reese and spend some much needed time with friends.

We went to the mall on new years day for a super sale at Dillard's and Caroline got to ride the carousel.

Christmas 2010

2010-12-28T20:19:00.001-08:00

Caroline's star on the top of the tree. She made the star a couple of years ago at school and we have added it to our topper ever since.

Mommy and Caroline's annual Christmas picture.

Our tree

Christmas Eve

cookies for Santa and the reindeer

Christmas Day

Caroline got a "pink bike from Santa and we got a TV!

Getting ready for tee ball with the YMCA in the spring

We had the Cox family over for breakfast Christmas morning.

Harris family Christmas. Caroline & Walker.

Baby Joe enjoying all the presents.

Church in Gainesville

2010-12-28T20:18:00.001-08:00

Caroline's Annual November Gator Game

2010-12-28T20:17:00.002-08:00

We traveled to Gainesville for Caroline's annual November Gator football game. This year we played Applalchian State. The final score was 48-10. GO GATORS!

First Sleepover

2010-12-28T20:17:00.001-08:00

Caroline invited her friend Mattox Johnston over for their first sleep over. The kids had a great time together!

Play time,

Bath Time,

Bed time.

Caroline and Jake mad pancakes in the morning for Mattox.

Halloween 2010

2010-12-28T20:16:00.001-08:00

Handy Manny

We went to Southwood to trick or treat with the Johnston's and Scoggin's

Last soccer game and awards night

2010-12-28T20:15:00.000-08:00

It's sad to say, but Caroline's first Soccer season is over. Here are some pictures form her last game and then one with her medal!

The 3 "stars" of the team with the Coaches.

MVP...well if you count picking up Peyton while on the field, not wanting to play and picking grass as what qualifies as a most valuable player.

Bad News and Sweet News

2010-12-28T20:14:00.000-08:00

Caroline likes to share some bad news and sweet news each night. For example, her bad news would be that she did not get to watch tv tonight. Her good news would be that she was an ASK friend today (meaning she go to stay and play after school).

Will post more funny bad news and sweet news as it happens!

Breast Cancer Walk

2010-10-28T20:45:00.000-07:00

This year the Garner family raised over $600!

Pumpkin Patch 2010

2010-10-28T20:37:00.001-07:00

Atlanta

2010-10-28T20:35:00.000-07:00

Jake, Caroline and I headed up I-75 for a long weekend in Atlanta.

Our first day was the "busy" day. We started off at the Georgia Aquarium.

That's a big fish uncle Ed!

With the penguins!
We also went to the Atlanta Children's Museum which was amazing and then we ended the day at the World of Coke and Legal Seafood.

The 2nd day was the "lazy" day. We started off at Piedmont Park for painting pumpkins, a picnic lunch, playground and market shopping.

We ended our 2nd day at IKEA! We shopped until we dropped and here is what we bought...

More soccer pictures

2010-10-28T20:07:00.000-07:00

Homecoming week at Maclay

2010-10-23T13:53:00.001-07:00

Monday-PJ Day

Tuesday-Island Day

Wednesday-Sports Team Day

Thursday-Western Day

YMCA Soccer-1st Practice

2010-10-23T13:34:00.000-07:00

Florida Football 2010

2010-09-14T19:04:00.000-07:00

Caroline and I went to the first Florida Football Game of 2010. She had fun, but it was a long game and a hot day. Had to share this picture because it is one of my favorites ever!

1st day of Maclay

2010-09-14T18:12:00.000-07:00

Caroline started Maclay on Monday August 16th. She is in Mrs. Elizabeth Marschall and Mrs. Billings's Pre-K 3 class.

Showing off her new red school bag

Caroline gets to take her lunch to school Monday-Thursday and we let her buy lunch on Friday.

Train Table at school.

3 year pictures

2010-09-13T19:37:00.000-07:00

Below is the wonderful work of our family photographer, Gjergj Ndoja. He always takes such great photos of Caroline and we asked him to, once again, catch her in action. Her personality really shined during the shoot and she is such a HAM when the camera is around.

Sneak peak pics below. Click on the link at the end of the post to see the rest of her 3 year pics.

See more pictures here!

http://www.snapfish.com/comcast/shareerg/p=71241280973332536/I=10186285009/g=25482187/cobrandOid=1000131/COBRAND_NAME=comcast/otso=SY

Caroline's 3rd Birthday Party

2010-09-13T19:26:00.000-07:00

Caroline got to open some presents on her actual birthday morning. She got...

Beads to make necklaces and Toy Story 1 and 2 from us

a handmade apron and chefs hat from Aunt Peggi

Jake got a handmade apron from peggi too!

We had Caroline's party at home again this year. We set up pools and had a lot of water toys to play with.

Jake and I made cupcakes baked in ice cream cones!

They were yummy!

We had a great time with our friends and family! Thank goodness for great, rain-free, weather that day.

SNOW CONES

2010-09-13T19:23:00.000-07:00

We bought a snow cone machine for Caroline's birthday party and we decided to try it out one Sunday afternoon. They were yummy!

4th of July

2010-09-13T19:17:00.000-07:00

Caroline and I traveled to St. George Island to spend the 4th of July with Kate and Ed, Pete and Brenda. We had a fun time lighting sparklers on the windy beach and going to the parade on the island.

Fun times at the beach!

All Star Baseball in Alabama

2010-09-13T19:03:00.000-07:00

Caroline and I traveled to Dothan, AL to watch Walker play in the championship game of his All Star baseball tournament.

Go Nationals!

Caroline was worried that Walker would not get on base.

On deck...

It started to rain at the end of the game, but Walker's team still pulled out a win.

WIll and Caroline

Walker and Caroline

ISR

2010-09-13T18:52:00.000-07:00

This is the 2nd year that we have had Caroline in Infant Swimming Resource (ISR) swimming lessons. It is a great program that teaches kids from 6 months-6 years how to survive if they ever fell into a body of water. Caroline learned that ISR calls to swim, float, swim. Caroline learns to swim and them turn over to her back to float and rest and then rolls back over to swim again. She also knows how to pull up out of the water on the side of the pool. We have a great instructor names Patty Thompson and her website is http://www.isrkids.com/.

Here is a picture of Caroline swimming under water.

Fathers Day

2010-09-13T18:35:00.000-07:00

Every year my dad's birthday falls the same weekend of Father's day. We had my dad and Jake's dad over to celebrate and Jake cooked a delicious home cooked meal of roast beef and mashed potato's.

Caroline took these pictures!

Wimbledon

2010-08-30T07:09:00.000-07:00

This year, Jake was honored by being chosen as the Chair Umpire for the Men's final match at Wimbledon. It was a great opportunity for him and we could not be more proud.

Memorial Day and my 30th birthday

2010-06-12T12:16:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend, Caroline and I went to Gulf Shores, Alabama to visit Robin and her family.

Robin's nephew Alex and Caroline on the beach.

Making my breakfast pancakes!

Blueberry, my favorite!

On the boat!

Pretty girl dressed up as Snow White

Cinderella Man

On the beach, enjoying a snack

Cody's Graduation

2010-06-12T11:49:00.001-07:00

My cousin Cody, Graduated from Maclay on May 28th. We are so proud of him!

There he is...

Caroline, Will, Cody and Walker

You will be seeing this picture again when she is a senior!

Tampa for Mary Poppins

2010-06-12T11:30:00.000-07:00

One weekend in May, Caroline and I went to Tampa to visit family and to go to the Mary Poppins Broadway show.

Caroline at the park

We met Cathy, Grayson and Mary Hall at Datz, one of my favorite restaurants, before the show.

Caroline loved the play!

Sunday in Tarpon Springs. I bought Caroline her first Vera Bradley Purse.

Travis Wedding

2010-06-12T07:42:00.000-07:00

Caroline was a flower girl in Travis and Allie's wedding on May 15th.

Caroline's First Haircut

2010-05-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

May 4th Caroline got her first haircut!

We went to Chick-fil-a for lunch and then to get her hair cut.

Before:

She was very still while sitting in the chair, but did not look thrilled at all.

I was very reluctant to cut her hair, but I am so glad they did because it looks great and they did not cut her curls off.

Kidsfest

2010-05-12T06:44:00.000-07:00

22 foot water slide!

Things I need to write down before I forget...

2010-04-22T12:13:00.001-07:00

Caroline now has 4 freckles. One on her belly, elbow, on in the crease of her arm, and one on the side of her leg.

When asked if Caroline has a boyfriend, she responds with "Brody." She gives Brody kisses and then she shows us how he wipes them off.

Jake and Caroline were in the car and a local commercial jingle for Capelouto Pest Control came on the radio. Jake changed the station and Caroline asked for him to change it back. She sang the whole song along with the end "Hello Capelouto, Goodbye bugs."

We have movie night on Fridays. We have carpet friendly food and snacks and we set up a picnic on the living room floor. We've seen Bambi, Cars, Beauty and the Beast, Dumbo, Peter Pan, Night at the Museum 1 and 2, Enchanted, Ratatouille, Meet the Robinsons, and the Little mermaid. This is our favorite night of the week because we have junk food, we relax, we watch the movie and, most of all, we are together!

Caroline loves to help cook. She pulls up a dining room chair to the counter top and help us fix meals. She gets to cook a lot when she stays at Pete and Brenda's. She also helps us set the table before mealtime.

Brody's Birthday Party

2010-04-22T11:20:00.000-07:00

Brody, Brody, Brody is all we hear at our house these days. Brody is one of Caroline's friends from school and they have been in school together since Caroline was 6 weeks old. Caroline and Brody have a connection that I cannot describe.
When we were invited to his 3rd birthday party, we would not have missed it for the world! We had so much fun at Zoinks with all of our friends.
I can't believe they are turning 3!

Caroline, Brody and Peyton

Makenna, Alexandra, Caroline and Mattox

Happy Birthday Brody! Cool cake man!

Caroline and Baby Joe (4.10.10)

2010-04-22T11:19:00.000-07:00

Caroline loves her baby Joe and wants to be a mommy so bad!

More Easter Pics

2010-04-22T11:17:00.001-07:00

I Love Easter!

That's a funny one, Uncle Jeff!

Caroline and Kinsley on the beach

Easter 2010

2010-04-05T10:40:00.000-07:00

Easter Moring in St. Teresa

Junior Gym

2010-04-02T08:30:00.000-07:00

Red Hills Horse Trials

2010-04-02T08:23:00.001-07:00

New Outfit

2010-04-02T07:55:00.000-07:00

Baby Joe is Here!

2010-03-01T14:10:00.000-08:00

On February 16th at 7:31am Joseph Fletcher Mathis was born. He weighed 8lbs 15ox and was 21.25 inches long. He is super cute!

Congrats to my sister Michele and her family!

Valentines Day

2010-03-01T11:14:00.001-08:00

We had a very low-key valentines day. We celebrated with a breakfast in bed that Caroline and Jake made for me. Then we opened presents, still in bed!

Opening Sleeping Beauty!

Money from Jo Ann and Bud

Caroline's Valentines Day Mailbox

Valentine from Patty

Cody

2010-02-10T12:22:00.001-08:00

Caroline took this picture of our cousin Cody at his last regular season basketball game at Maclay. We love you Cody!

Gasparilla Children's Parade

2010-02-10T12:14:00.000-08:00

Caroline and I went to Tampa to visit friends and go to the Gasparilla Children's Parade.

Caroline's big girl room

2010-02-10T12:05:00.000-08:00

Caroline got a big girl bed in November. This is what her room looks like now!

Zoinks

2010-02-10T11:59:00.000-08:00

Saturday we met up with my friend Danielle and her two boys, Peyton and Preston, at Zoinks.

Caroline-isms

2010-02-01T07:30:00.000-08:00

Caroline is a very funny girl. She says some things that make me laugh, so I thought I would share them with you.

We go to a restaurant called Bayou Rouge. Here is mine and Caroline's conversation:
Kelley: Caroline, we are going to Bayou Rouge to meet Grandma and Grandpa for dinner. Is that ok?
Caroline: Yes mommy.
Kelley: Lets get ready to go to Bayou Rouge.
Caroline: Ok. Let's go to By-Me Rouge.

Here is a conversation between Caroline and I, one afternoon heading home from school:
Kelley: Caroline we need to run a few errands before we go home today.
Caroline: Errands? Where are we going?
Kelley: We need to go to UPS and Publix.
Caroline: Yea, Pub-la-lix.
Kelley: We have to drop off Aunt's Kate's Computer and Ra Ra birthday present off at UPS first, ok?
Caroline: Ok, we go to Me-P-S and then Pub-la-lix.
Kelley: No Caroline, it's UPS.
Caroline: Me-P-S.
Kelley: No, it's UPS.
This continued for a couple of minutes and I even made her say it to the guys that worked at UPS. They got a kick out of it.

November Photo Shoot with Gjergj

2010-01-20T19:43:00.000-08:00

The Friday after Thanksgiving, Jake's aunt, uncle, and 2 cousins met Gjergj for a family photo shoot at Maclay Gardens. We met up with them and got some cute pictures of Caroline.

Additional Blog Site

2010-01-19T14:55:00.002-08:00

Hi everyone!

Caroline has been taking a lot of pictures herself and we thought we would share them with all of you. Please go to http://www.carolinebgarnerphotos.blogspot.com/ and check them out!

Here is a sneak peak...

January at the beach

2010-01-19T14:55:00.001-08:00

As you have read, we went to Kate and Ed's for New Years. It was cold, but we bundled up and and had a great time playing in the sand. Here are some pictures of us having fun on the beach!

New Years

2010-01-19T14:54:00.001-08:00

It has become a tradition to spend new years with Kate and Ed. This year they were home so we traveled to St. George and pend the weekend with them.

We went out to Eddy Teach's to listen to some music and dance. Caroline lasted until 10:30, which was a lot longer than we thought.

We came back to the house and had new years with Caroline. Watch the video below.

It is a Cuban tradition that you throw water out the front door and eat 13 grapes, So we did both!

Christmas 2009

2010-01-19T14:53:00.002-08:00

Christmas has come and gone for this year, but we wanted to share some pictures of our holiday.

Caroline decorated her first gingerbread house. She had fun, but did not want to put all of the candy on because she wanted to eat it.

Before

After

On December 20th we had Harris family Christmas at our house. Caroline got baby clothes, a baby bed, a leapfrog "blackberry," sweaters, a gator dress, Snow White cooking set and much more.

We made cookies for Santa on Christmas Eve. Jake told Caroline that Santa liked peanut butter cookies and I told her he likes chocolate milk!

Christmas Morning at our house!

Caroline's presents from Santa

Handy Manny!

Wooden Fruit

Aqua Doodle. FYI- great in the car!

Tool Set!

Tim Tebow Jersey!

Mommy's favorite present!

Marry Poppins books

Bowling set

Our friends Kristin and Shannon gave Caroline a doctor set. Caroline checked Jake and he is healthy!

Christmas morning we had the Cox family over for breakfast.

The 26th we had Christmas with the Davis family at Pete and Brenda's house.

Ed's family all came up to St. George from Orlando and South Florida to spend the holidays together. We went for a visit on Sunday the 27th. We are always up for fun at the beach!

Caroline's most favorite present. Our friend Kinsley gave Caroline 3 princess costumes along with jewelry and shoes for all the outfits. Caroline LOVES this gift and wants to dress up every day. I have to say I think she is the prettiest princess I have ever seen!

Cinderella

Snow White

Aurora

Santa Picture

2010-01-19T14:53:00.001-08:00

We have been talking up Santa this year and we must have done a great job. Caroline was wonderful. She went right up to Santa and sat on his lap. He asked her what she wanted for Christmas and she said "Candy Canes." He asked her if she wanted anything else and she said "Toys." Check back to see if Santa brought what she asked for.

Disney Day 4- The rest of Magic Kingdom

2010-01-19T14:52:00.003-08:00

Our last day we decided to go back to the Magic Kingdom because we did not get to do all we wanted to the first day.

We started off by climbing tons of stairs in the Swiss Family Robinson Tree House.

We also went to Tom Sawyers Island

We caught the end of a parade and Caroline got to see Ariel (one of her favorite characters)

Caroline watching the parade, do you think she had fun?

Come on Aunt Kate, there is so much more to see!

Dumbo!

Dad's and Daughter's Dumbo ride.

Caroline told Jake that she wanted to go "up high"

We had a little extra time before we had to go home so we rode the Tea Cups again.

We had a great time on our long weekend in Orlando and we hope to make this an annual trip.

Disney Day 3- Epcot

2010-01-19T14:52:00.001-08:00

We had a little later start for our trip to Epcot. We parked at the Boardwalk and rode a boat over to Epcot. We started in France (because that is where the boat dropped us off) and ended in England. Since it was around Christmas, each country had their version of Santa out telling stories of their traditions.

France. Ed was trying to keep her away for all of the pastries we bought.

Caroline watching the Drummers in Japan.

On the steps in Italy. We drank good wine!

On the ride in Mexico

We all had a snack in Mexico but Caroline was not hungry. She would rather play the maracas, wear funny hats, and DANCE!

Tequila Flight! I had a Margarita Flight and it was yummy!

England...with items form Marry Poppins movie and...

The Beatles!

We had so much fun at the first Beatles show we stayed around for another one.

Caroline and Jake threw a penny in the fountain and Caroline wished for a Merry Christmas. No prompting, I promise!

Hello?!?

We took the boat back over to the Boardwalk to watch the fireworks, but they were blocked by the hotel. Instead we listened to the fireworks and ate funnel cake. What a great end to the day!

Our goal for the day was to eat something at every country:

France-Pastries

Morocco-Baklava

Japan-I can't remember

United States-Funnel Cake

Italy- Wine. It is made of grapes so it counts!

Germany-Bratwurst

China-Dumplings

Norway-Blood Orange Flan

Mexico-Guacamole, flautas, and taquitos.

Disney Day 2- Magic Kingdom

2010-01-19T14:51:00.001-08:00

This was actually our first day at a park so it was the most exciting! We got up early, pack up our bags for the day and headed to the Magic Kingdom. We took the paddle boat over to the park because the monorail was not running. Caroline saw the castle from a far and got very excited.

Posing in front of the castle.

Waiting in line for Caroline's first ride at Disney...Buzz Lightyear!

This is the first of the many driving lessons Jake will take her on.

Aunt Kate, Kelley and Caroline on the Teacups going FAST!

Her favorite ride of all...the roller coaster. She had a blast and went on it twice in a row. She is fearless!

Meeting Mickey and Minnie.

Minne giving Caroline a kiss.

Kate and Ed with Mickey and Minnie

The lines were not long, but it is hard for a 2 year old to have patience.

Cinderella's castle at night.

Ed, our "big" kid.

Cheese!

Daddy, Caroline and Mommy

The end of an exciting day.

Caroline's first trip to Disney World

2009-12-22T07:54:00.000-08:00

Christmas with the Garner family was celebrated a little early this year. We decided to go to Disney World for a long weekend and celebrate my favorite holiday in the happiest place on earth. We headed to Orlando on Saturday December 12th. We checked into the hotel and then headed to Downtown Disney for our "Christmas Dinner." We ate at Fulton's Crab House and I had Stone Crab Claws for the first time. We shopped at the HUGE Disney store and bought Caroline a cute Mickey shirt that she ended up wearing for her first day at the Magic Kingdom. We also got a milkshake from the Ghirardelli store and we danced to Christmas music in front of one of the biggest Christmas trees we had ever seen. We went back to the hotel so we could get a good nights sleep.

Grandpa and Caroline waiting for the rest of us to finish shopping. It was a big store!

Dancing in front of the big tree

Check back soon for more pictures and stories from the days ahead.

Its Christmastime at the Garner's

2009-12-08T13:08:00.000-08:00

Caroline and I putting up Aunt Mildred's Christmas tree that has been passed down to us.

Caroline's first ornaments of 2009

We have this same picture from 2007, 2008 and now 2009.

Finishing it off with the star on top of the tree.

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-12-08T12:59:00.000-08:00

This year, we attended 2 Thanksgiving feasts.

This day always reminds us we have a lot to be thankful for!

Cox Family Thanksgiving at my dad's house in Havana:

Frannie, Mary, Flo, Me, JJ

Granddaddy, Caroline, Heath, Daddy

Garner Family Thanksgiving at Pete and Brenda's house in Tallahassee:

Caroline's 2nd Gator Game

2009-12-08T12:43:00.001-08:00

Jake and I had the opportunity to take Caroline to her 2nd Florida football game this year. She a a lot of fun cheering and I had a wonderful time sharing all of my families tradition with her. Enjoy the pictures.

Jake, Caroline and I with Albert and Alberta

Waiting for the "Gator Walk"

She was loved the band and the cheerleaders.

With Do

This was before halftime. I thought we were doomed!

Ties...

2009-12-08T12:40:00.001-08:00

Carving the Pumpkin

2009-12-08T12:25:00.000-08:00

Jake was not home for Halloween so we waited on him to get home to carve the pumpkin. Here are pictures.

Halloween

2009-11-04T13:43:00.000-08:00

Friday night, October 30th, my sister and her family came into town and we trick or treated at our families houses in our neighborhood. Walker, 6, was a baseball player. Will, 4, was an army guy. Caroline, 2, was Mary Poppins.

Saturday, October 31st, we went out to April, Michael and Mattox's house and trick or treated with them. We had a fun time and the kids enjoyed it even more. To see wonderful, professional pictures of the nights events, go to www.mbjphoto.com/blog. Here are a couple I took.

P.S. Jake's Aunt Peggi made the Caroline's Jacket, Brenda made the scarf, I made the hat and we bought the carpet bag and umbrella from the broadway show in New York.

Pumpkin Patch

2009-11-04T13:22:00.000-08:00

Caroline and I were invited to come spend some time with Alison, Tim, and Katelin Denny at their church pumpkin patch. We had a good time touching all of the pumpkins (sometimes throwing them down on the ground) and a even better time on the playground afterwards.

Here are the 3, yes count them 3, pumpkins we could not leave the patch without.

Caroline hugs and kisses her pumpkins each day!

Breast Cancer Walk

2009-11-04T13:11:00.001-08:00

Sunday, October 25th, Caroline and I (along with other family members) walked in our support of finding a cure for Breast Cancer. This year We raised $310! Thanks to all who participated and donated to our cause!

Week in Baton Rouge

2009-10-21T12:26:00.000-07:00

Caroline and I stayed in Baton Rouge after the football game to visit with friends and attend a reunion for my sorority. Here are pictures from that week:

We went horseback riding with my friend Mesha at the farm where she works. Caroline learned all about caring for horses. She had to brush the horse and help put the saddle pad on. She had a good time and asked to go back every day since.

Yes, that is her bike helmet. Mesha did not have one that fit and I happened to have her bike and helmet in the car.

We stayed with my friend Robin for 4 days in the beginning of the week. Can you tell we had fun with her!

We moved to Paulan's house on Thursday and Friday our friend Summer came into town. She brought her daughter, Chloe, and her husband Chris. The girls had such a good time playing together! It was Chloe's 2nd birthday on Saturday and we gave her this purple and gold tutu that I made. Obviously, Caroline has one too!

We went to see Mike the Tiger on LSU's campus. Mike was sleeping so we did not get to see him much, but there was a statue that the girls sat on.

WATCH THE VIDEO below. Caroline is doing the gator chomp while sitting on Mike! Hehe!

Saturday the girls got in bed together and watched Elmo's world!

Zeta Reunion:

Mesha, Paulan, me, Summer and Robin

My Zeta Family: Heather, me and Emily.

UF vs LSU 10.9.09

2009-10-21T12:18:00.001-07:00

My family and I traveled to Baton Rouge to watch the Gators play. It was nasty weather, but a good outcome.

Debbie, Cody, Me, and Do after the game

The score!

I heart Tebow!

Ball, Strike 1, Strike 2, base hit!

2009-10-21T10:15:00.000-07:00

Jake and Caroline were playing baseball in the garage one afternoon and I caught it on video. Take a look...

Ball

Strike 1

Strike 2

Base Hit!!!

Caroline's Big Girl Bed

2009-10-02T08:25:00.000-07:00

We ordered Caroline's big girl bed this week, but it is not going to be delivered until the end of November. Here is a picture of the bed (we got her the white one).

It's a boy!

2009-10-02T08:20:00.000-07:00

Before you all freak out, I am not pregnant!

My sister found out this week that she is having her 3rd boy on, or around, February 23rd.

Here is a picture...

US Open Final

2009-09-25T08:46:00.000-07:00

Jake was the chair umpire for the Men's US Open final in New York. I was able to go up there and watch. Here are some pictures. My seat!

New York, New York

2009-09-09T10:02:00.000-07:00

Jake, Caroline and I went to New York a couple of days before Jake had to report to work for the US Open. Here are some pictures and stories from the trip.

Day 1:

Jake and Caroline on the airplane

Mary Poppins in NY. We wanted to take her to see the show, but we need to wait a few years before we spend that kind of money.

Jake and Caroline at Toys R Us

Caroline found an Ariel Barbie at Toys R Us.

We rode the carousel at Toys R US

Day 2:

We went to the upper west side and went to the Children's Museum of Manhattan. It is an interactive museum with a grocery store, sand tables, a giant light bright, and a whole floor dedicated as a Dora the Explorer playhouse. Caroline had a great time and we cannot wait to go back next year!

Caroline driving the bus

The giant Light Bright.

The sand table that Caroline would play for hours on if we let her.

Watch the video of Jake and Caroline playing Peak-a-boo at the Children's Museum.

Next we walked to Central Park and had lunch. We also tried to find some playgrounds for Caroline to play.

Caroline hanging on the pull up bar at the Pentium Swings Playground.

Caroline and mommy by the Belvedere Castle.

Caroline playing in the fountain at the Friedman Playground.

The Garner Family at the Conservatory Water (where you rent the little white boats).

Day 3:

We started the day with a walk to FAO Schwartz. This happened to be the 2nd time that we went there because Caroline was napping in the stroller the first time. She had a great time playing the "Big" piano.

Watch the video of Caroline on the piano!

Jake had to go pick up his uniform at noon this day so there were a couple of hours that Caroline and I had to find something to do by ourselves. We had a some of things that we wanted to do so we decided to start with lunch at Dean and Deluca at Rockefeller Plaza. Fruit and a Mozzarella, basil and tomato sandwich later we went to Magnolia Bakery around the corner. They have the best looking cupcakes I have ever seen, AND TASTED, in this world. We also bought their famous banana pudding and t-shirts!

Caroline and I shared banana pudding and people watching while sitting in Rockefeller plaza.

We met back up with Jake and finished the day with the Natural History Museum. We did not stay there long because Caroline was getting fussy so we found her a playground so she could stretch her legs and run around.

Day 4:

Jake went to work and Caroline and I had the whole day to ourselves.

Caroline was ready for a day of fun with mommy!

We started off at the Central Park Zoo. We saw penguins, sea lions, and so many other animals like:

Polar Bears,

and Turtles!

Next we went to the children's zoo and Caroline had the best time. There are all kinds of things for her to climb on and walk through. She had such a fun time!

Caroline as a bunny.

Mommy is a bunny (Caroline took this picture)!

Cheese!

Feeding the sheep at the petting zoo. We sang "Baa, Baa, Black Sheep"

Next we went to a playground near the zoo and swung, played in the sand and in the water.

Looks like she is at the beach, but we are really in Manhattan!

Caroline loved playing in the water.

We walked a little bit and found the carousel. Man it was fast!

That night we met up with Jake for dinner at the Hard Rock in Times Square.

Day 5:

Tennis!

Caroline and I went to Queens and watched Jake at work. Caroline kept saying "Daddy work at tennis" anytime she saw Jake at work.

Caroline and Daddy at tennis.

Jake had an early day at work so we took the subway to NYU area to go to a small restaurant called Peanut Butter and Co. Jake had a peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwich and I had a sampler platter with 8 different kinds of peanut butter.

Caroline eating an apple with our favorite kind of peanut butter (cinnamon raisin).

We finished the day with a brisk 40 block walk back to the hotel, baths and cuddle time in the hotel room watching whatever Caroline wanted on TV.

Day 6:

The last day :(

We had some last minute things we wanted to do in New York and this was the day to do it!

First we started at the New York Public Library for story time and then we met our friend Catherine for some lunch at Bryant Park.

Before lunch we rode the carousel in Bryant Park.

We then took a cab to Soho and went to the Manhattan Children's Museum of the Arts. Caroline had a good time getting marker on her and not on the paper and she also liked gluing pieces of tissue paper to a cardboard house.

Playing with blocks at the art museum.

After the art museum we started the 45 block trek back up to the hotel. I had kinda planed out the route in order to see some sights and shop a little. We went to the first Dean and Deluca in Soho and bought my favorite black and white cookies. We thought about going in Balthazar and eating the worlds best french fries (well, at least Bobby Flay says so), but it was way too crowded. We went to Max Brenner's chocolate store and bought a chocolate pizza for Jake and I to share later that night. And we finally ended up in the Madison Square Park for a snack of the black and white cookies and a fun afternoon at the playground there. We also walked through Union Square Park and Washington Square Park. We saw lower Manhattan that day!

The playground at Madison Square Park.

Our last night in NY was spent with my Uncle Danny. He is an actor and had to work that day, but was able to meet us for dinner at an Italian restaurant around the corner from our hotel. We had a good time catching up and we are so glad that the timing worked out!

Danny, Caroline, Jake and Kelley.

When you ask Caroline who her best friend is...her reply is "Mommy!"

Day 7:

Our trip home

Cab to the airport

We had so much fun that she slept most of the way to Atlanta (Listening to Mary Poppins on the Ipod, of course).

2 year pictures

2009-08-20T08:52:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, we traveled to St. George Island for Caroline's 2 year pictures. Thanks to Hester and Gjergj for a great photo session and a fun day at the beach!

Here they are...
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=0AcMmzNs3bs2LkY

Here is a sneak peak...

HAIR!

2009-08-19T09:58:00.001-07:00

Aunt Kate and Jake had fun playing with Caroline's "hair."

Beach Pictures from July

2009-08-19T09:52:00.001-07:00

Playing ball with Montana

Floating with Aunt Kate, Uncle Ed and Daddy:

First day of school

2009-08-19T07:28:00.000-07:00

Our nephews started school so we thought we would share pictures. Aren't they cute!

This is Walker starting 1st grade

This is Will starting Preschool

July 23, 2009

2009-07-23T11:51:00.002-07:00

Here are some pics form Caroline birthday:

First we got her up and let her open a present.

Then we went to Zoinks for a little playtime.

Next we had cupcakes!

Caroline's 2nd and Jake's 30th Birthday Party

2009-07-23T11:51:00.001-07:00

On Saturday we had Caroline and Jake's birthday party. We had family and friends over to celebrate with us and we had a great time.

We wrapped our sliding glass door so Caroline could not see the swing set in the back yard and so she had something to "unwrap."

Caroline's backyard clubhouse!

She loves to swing...

She loves to slide...

"Hi guys!"

Preston, Peyton, Jason, Caroline and Walker enjoying the swing set.

"Happy Birthday, Jake and Caroline..."

Caroline and the boys(Walker and Will)

Building the Swing Set

2009-07-22T08:28:00.001-07:00

We gave Caroline a swing set for her birthday. It took Jake and Ed 12 hours to put it together (that is with meal breaks and rain delays). Here are some pictures of the assembly day.

Box 1 of 3

Jake's 30th Birthday

2009-07-22T08:25:00.001-07:00

Jake's 30th birthday was Monday July 13. Caroline and I picked him up form the airport at 7:00 and then headed home for a nice dinner with Jake's parents. Debbie cut out over 100 30's out of construction paper and then came over to decorate our house. The 30's were everywhere!

That's a lot of candles!

Houston

2009-07-09T08:16:00.000-07:00

The first week in July, Caroline and I flew to Houston to visit my friend Summer and her daughter Chloe. We had a great time and we can't wait to see them again! Here are pictures from that week.

Day 1: Summer lives in a great neighborhood that has many amenities including 2 pools. We went to one of the pools the first day and let the girls play together. *We went to the pool most every day because the girls had a great time swimming together.

Day 2: We were busy from the get go. We took the girls to a bounce house place close to Summer's house and they had a good time. They especially loved the slide.

Day 2 (cont.): Summer and her husband Chris play on a co-ed soccer team together and they had a game and we took the girls out to watch.

Day 3: Summer's Neighborhood had a children's parade for the 4th of July so we decorated the waggon and showed our spirit. At the end of the parade route there was a small "fair" like atmosphere with rides and games for kids.

Day 4 (4th of July): We traveled to Lake Livingston (about 1 hour outside of Houston) to visit some of Summer's friends at their lake house. The girls got in the lake, but weren't thrilled because it was quite rough. They had a great time playing in the swing despite the rough water.

Day 4 (cont.): That night, we went to a fireworks display in Kingwood. Caroline pronounces fireworks like "walker-works." Not sure where that came from.

Day 6: We went to the Woodlands Mall this day and the girls rode on the Carousel and played in the kids area of the mall. Summer and I both spent way too much money on kids clothes that day!

Day 6 (cont.): This was also Summer's birthday so she had all of her family over for dinner. We had a great meal and both Caroline and I enjoyed spending time with their relatives.

Day 7: We caught a plane back to Tallahassee this day so all we did was pack. No fun pictures of that, sorry!

Chloe, Summer, me and Caroline.

Chris, Parker, Caroline, Logan, Chloe and Summer.

Off to visit the Mathis Family

2009-07-09T08:07:00.000-07:00

We went to visit my sister Michele and her family in Alabama before we went to Houston. We had a fun time with the boys and we got to swim at the Grubb's pool while we were there.

Snow Cones...yummy!

Walker, Jarrett and Mikaela.

Will and Michele

Will and Caroline hanging out

Caroline Brooke Garner

First Day of School (Pre K 4)

Last Hurrah!

Caroline's 4th birthday parties

Atlanta for Caroline's 4th birthday

Even more misc.

Girls Weekend #2

Girls Weekend #1

More misc and maclay

Tee Ball

Maclay Art Show

Easter

Misc. posts

Welcome Ryker!

hot air balloon ride

Disney 2011

More Maclay pics

Cute pic to share

Gasparilla Childrens Parade

So long Kitch, Hello Anna

New Years

Christmas 2010

Church in Gainesville

Caroline's Annual November Gator Game

First Sleepover

Halloween 2010

Last soccer game and awards night

Bad News and Sweet News

Breast Cancer Walk

Pumpkin Patch 2010

Atlanta

More soccer pictures

Homecoming week at Maclay

YMCA Soccer-1st Practice

Florida Football 2010

More Maclay Pictures and Stories

1st day of Maclay

3 year pictures

Caroline's 3rd Birthday Party

SNOW CONES

4th of July

All Star Baseball in Alabama

ISR

Fathers Day

Wimbledon

Memorial Day and my 30th birthday

Cody's Graduation

Tampa for Mary Poppins

Travis Wedding

Caroline's First Haircut

Kidsfest

Things I need to write down before I forget...

Brody's Birthday Party

Caroline and Baby Joe (4.10.10)

More Easter Pics

Easter 2010

Junior Gym

Red Hills Horse Trials

New Outfit

Baby Joe is Here!

Valentines Day

Cody

Gasparilla Children's Parade

Caroline's big girl room

Zoinks

Caroline-isms

November Photo Shoot with Gjergj

Additional Blog Site

January at the beach

New Years

Christmas 2009

Santa Picture

Disney Day 4- The rest of Magic Kingdom

Disney Day 3- Epcot

Disney Day 2- Magic Kingdom

Caroline's first trip to Disney World

Its Christmastime at the Garner's

Thanksgiving 2009

Caroline's 2nd Gator Game

Ties...