The Shelton's Blog

2010-09-02T14:58:00.000-05:00

What a difference a year makes...

2010-09-02T14:46:00.000-05:00

My baby isn't a baby anymore...it is so sad. We went to MDO Open House this morning. Ellie has two really sweet teachers. Mrs. Kathy and Mrs. Patty will take good care of her! Just wanted to share how much we have grown in a year!

Just playing dress up...

2010-08-06T15:25:00.000-05:00

I found this costume today while digging through some old things of Ellie's. I tried it on Will to see if I could get him to smile big like Ellie did. I think you can tell that they are brother and sister. Big man will not be wearing this costume for Halloween...it was almost too small now. Thought these were cute.

2010-08-06T15:22:00.000-05:00

Gatlinburg

2010-06-27T09:08:00.014-05:00

Hello everyone. Sorry for the long delay in posts but we have been busy. Ellie and I are stuck inside this morning because she is sick. So, I decided it was time to update the blog.

Two weekends ago, we went on a quick weekend get-away to Gatlinburg, Tennessee. I will choose not to comment on Gatlinburg. The Great Smokey Mountains National Park, however, was great. We arrived in Gatlinburg around 4pm EDT on Friday. We took it easy, ate some dinner and then utilized one of the greatest inventions in modern hotel history - the indoor pool! Ellie loved it! Being the disciplinarians that we are, all of us (Will included) swam until about 10:00 EDT.

We stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn, which was brand new. ALL 4 of us stayed in one room with two queen beds (and a pack and play). This was a very large risk...Ellie and Will in the same room. Luckily, everyone slept well. Will usually starts to wake up around 6:00 am CDT. When he started stirring, I took him downstairs to watch the World Cup, drink coffee and feed him while the girls slept.

We had no real plans for the trip (which I believe is a direct result of the EXTREMELY planned vacations we always took when I was growing up). Being my mother's child, however, I started researching placed to visit in the National Park. So, once the girls woke-up, we decided to hike to a waterfall that was labeled as a "moderate" 1.5 mile hike. I figured we could make it with Ellie and Will! We made it without too much trouble. CB carried Will all the way to the waterfall in the Baby Bjorn and Ellie walked the ENITRE way! We were so proud of her considering that the elevation gain over to the waterfall was "moderate" for an adult but "significant" for a 3 year old.
Here are some pictures from the waterfall...

After the waterfall, we found a local swimming hole in the National Park where three streams converge. So, we got in! Ellie loved it. Daddy and Mommy thought it was cold,very cold. We hung out for a couple of hours.

After the swimming hole, we returned to the hotel and decided to go to Ober Gatlinburg, a place in the mountians with ski runs in the winter. To get there, you take a sky tram for about 10 minutes. We took some pictures from the sky tram.

Ober Gatlinburg was unexciting, excpet for the alpine slide! Now, if you know Ellie, you know she can be slightly skiddish and, if she decides she does not want to do something, it is very, very difficult to talk her into trying it. Knowing this, I thought it would be a great idea to take a ski lift further up the mountain and try the alpine slide. Without too much convincing, she decided to try it and LOVED IT. She loved it so much, she went for round 2 with Mommy.

After Ober Gatlinburg, we ate dinner and, again, swam. The swimming was Ellie's favorite part of the trip! We had a great time. I highly recommend this area for a quick get-away. My recommendation - rent someplace up the mountains outside of Gatlinburg.

2010-05-27T15:15:00.000-05:00

We took these after church the other day. Ellie is a bit of a "Bull in a China Shop" with Will. She loves to hold him, but she wants him to look at the camera and say cheese, too! She does love him bunches, though. We are very blessed with our two sweet children.

Will at 5 weeks

2010-05-27T15:11:00.001-05:00

2010 Flood!

2010-05-02T10:21:00.002-05:00

The amount of water in middle Tennessee is indescribable. I took some pictures of our yard and crawl space but, believe me, we are very lucky compared to many residents of middle Tennessee.

For those familiar with our house, you will probably remember the creek behind our house. Charley usually lays in it during the hot summer days. The pictures below, however, tell a much different story. The creek has flirted with entering our backyard for a few hours now. For a frame of reference, those familiar will remember the trampoline in "our" side yard. The creek is within a few feet of the trampoline. Unbelievable!

Also, I have posted some pictures of our street entrance and our neighbor's house.

Finally, here are some pictures of the crawl space under our house. I would estimate 4 inches of water in the crawl space. The bottom of the hot water heater is submerged so, needless to say, there is no hot water. As a side note, I noticed a nice plastic sled floating in the crawl space. I wish I had known about that a few months ago. It would have come in quite handy for Ellie and me.

As I said, we are very lucky considering the sheer volume of water here. The news indicates that some people have much larger problems than we do.

Brian

Ellie and Will Video...

2010-04-15T19:42:00.002-05:00

More Baby Will Pictures and Updates...

2010-04-15T11:24:00.003-05:00

We had a good night and everyone is great. Carrie Beth is walking around and Baby Will is eating, sleeping and everything else! Ellie sure does love Baby Will, so far.

Welcome William Lloyd Shelton

2010-04-14T19:24:00.000-05:00

Will is here!

He was born today at 8:19 am. He weighed 8 pounds 12.4 ounces and was 20 inches long.

Carrie Beth is doing great (much better than last time).

Will is also doing well.

Here are some pictures...

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T12:20:00.000-05:00

Happy Easter everyone. We took some video of Ellie this morning. Not very interesting but it will appease those demanding family members out there (you know who you are)! This is Brian, by the way.

Still waiting on Will. I guess the name of the blog will be changed once he arrives. Charley assumes he will get bumped yet again.

ELLIE WAKING UP TO THE EASTER BUNNY...

ELLIE HUNTING EGGS...

ELLIE HIDING EGGS...SHE HAS A LOT TO LEARN!

2009-11-02T14:29:00.000-06:00

Last night, we had our Friends in Faith Halloween party. It was supposed to be Friday night, but we had to move it to Sunday because of the never-ending rain! The party was SO much fun. When I got Ellie up from her nap, she was saying, "No cupcake, mommy!" So, we didn't even try to get her to wear the beloved cupcake costume. She went as a Mississippi State cheerleader and had a blast. Thanks to Kelly and Austin for hosting the party...I am sure that everyone had as much fun as we did!

Friends in Faith Halloween Party

2009-11-02T14:25:00.000-06:00

2009-10-31T18:25:00.000-05:00

Papaw Jack had cupcakes just for Ellie. She took her costume off as fast as she could to eat the cupcake.

After our second house, she was ready to go home. Enough trick-or-treating for one night!!! I guess it was a success that she actually wore part of the costume to 2 houses!!!

2009-10-31T18:22:00.000-05:00

We made it out the door with one layer of the icing on....and one layer in Daddy's hand!

Walking to our neighbor's house

Ellie and Katie

Ellie going to see PaPaw Jack!

We bribed her with candy....

2009-10-31T18:19:00.000-05:00

We bribed her with candy to put the entire costume on for a picture!!! This was the biggest costume disaster ever! I will know from now on not to put so much time and energy into something she WON'T wear!!!

Halloween Party

2009-10-31T18:14:00.000-05:00

Brian and I spent HOURS making the cutest cupcake costume for Ellie. As we were getting dressed for our party last night, she would have NO part of it. She did not want to put the costume on at all. She went to her dress up rack and pulled out this head piece and was ready to go. So much for the cupcake! We will try again for trick-or-treating!

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-31T18:10:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday, we took a little trip to the Pumpkin Patch. Ellie loved feeding the goats. Her mouth would get big and she would yell, "Moy!" (more) We had a great day!

We're Back....

2009-10-23T17:10:00.000-05:00

We know we have not been the best bloggers lately...but there is a reason! Ellie and Charley would like you to know that they are going to have a new brother/sister in April! Their mommy (writer of the blog) has not been feeling too spiffy for the last 14 weeks! We are excited about our new little addition to the family. We will find out the Tuesday before Thanksgiving if it is a boy or a girl. We are very blessed.

New Bike

2009-09-13T08:41:00.000-05:00

This is Brian. I got a new bike and Ellie loves to ride it. My dad wanted me to post pictures so...mission accomplished. The creative writer will be back soon.

Avery's Birthday Party

2009-09-05T20:41:00.000-05:00

Today, Ellie got to go to Avery's 4th Birthday party. It was a ballerina party and she had a blast. She was by far the youngest child there, but I do think she had the most fun! The bigger girls would get a little timid and shy...not Ellie. She had nothing to lose! What a fun day.

First Day of School

2009-09-05T20:36:00.000-05:00

Friday was Ellie's first day of school. I did not get any cute pictures of her at school, because they wanted everyone to drop off quickly. I was so busy trying to drop off quickly and not cry, that I completely forgot to sign her in!! Oh well...probably won't be the last time. She wasn't happy that her baby didn't get to go to school with her. She yelled all the way there, "Baby school....no school. Baby school...no school!" She had a great day. Her teacher said that she was sweet and had a blast. When I walked in the door, there was a cute little boy sound asleep on her nap mat. They said that halfway through nap he got up and joined her. She was sweet and let him stay! Brian wasn't sure how he felt about that!

MDO Open House

2009-09-05T20:29:00.000-05:00

On Tuesday, we went to Ellie's Mother's Day out for Open House. She got to meet her teachers and see all of her new friends. It was such sweet little place and I am thankful that they will love and take care of her on Fridays! I took these pictures of her on the porch before we left to meet Brian.

2009-08-27T20:06:00.000-05:00

2009-08-27T20:05:00.000-05:00

Destin 2009

2009-08-27T20:04:00.000-05:00

And God said, "Let there be light."

2009-07-27T13:24:00.000-05:00

Today was Ellie's first day at VBS! She did great. They learned that God said, "Let there be light." Apparently Ellie doesn't want their to be light, because she has not taken the sunglasses off since they gave them to her. She is currently napping with them on her face...as I write. I am in charge of the nursery and it was smooth sailing today. There was only one child bitten...and it did not involve Ellie on either end! It was a good day!

2009-07-27T13:18:00.000-05:00

Nana and Pop came on Saturday for a short visit and brought us mountain bikes. The bikes belonged to Brian and Adam when they were little. We bought a seat for Ellie and went on several rides this weekend. She says "Daddy bike" 750 times a day! Thanks Nana and Pop!

Arrington Vineyards

2009-07-27T13:13:00.000-05:00

Last weekend we went to Arrington Vineyards with some friends from Sunday School! It was an absolutely fabulous day. The weather was perfect and the vineyard was gorgeous. I highly reccomend it to anyone looking for something fun to do. Ellie stayed for 4 1/2 hours and had a blast.

2009-07-11T19:13:00.000-05:00

What do you do on a dreary day in Nashville? You decide at 10:00 to go to the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga. We had a blast! Ellie loved being there. We were taking a big risk by getting there at the start of nap time. She did fantastic. She went through both buildings with no problems! We were so proud of her. She loved the fish, turtles, and otters. Brian even stopped at the Super Target on the way home....bonus for me! We finished our perfect day by eating dinner at Martin's Barbeque Joint in Nolensville. Yum!!! What a great ending to a perfect day!

Best. Day. Ever.

2009-07-11T19:05:00.000-05:00

Playgroup at the Fountains

2009-07-11T18:51:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, Kelly and Reagan hosted playgroup at the fountains downtown. There are thrity-one fountains representing the thirty-one bodies of water in Tennessee. Ellie had SO much fun at the "bubbles." She absolutely loved running in and out of the water. It was raining when we first got there, but that didn't stop her in the least! We will certainly have to do that again, soon!

Our sweet friend Kaiser

2009-07-05T14:49:00.000-05:00

I just found these cute pictures...Ellie and Kaiser swimming in the Shelton Country Club pool. Ellie thought she was "big stuff" when Mrs. Catherine let her hold Kaiser! Too cute!

Father's Day

2009-07-05T14:45:00.000-05:00

Happy Late Father's Day to the best daddy in the world!!!!

It is hard to believe she is almost 2!!!!

2009-07-05T14:30:00.000-05:00

The Shelton's have been busy!!!! Last weekend, we went to Memphis for the weekend. Nana and Pop gave us tickets to see Wicked. It did not let me down...even after four times! Nana had a little birthday party for Ellie while we were there. (Maybe they will send me some pics from that party!)

Mom came to Memphis on Sunday and took Ellie with her to Mississippi! Ellie spent the week with her Bobby, Na Na and Es. They were busy bees all week...never a dull moment. They went swimming, visiting, riding in the golf cart, playing in the playhouse, etc.... I know Mom will be excited about being childless this week! Thanks for giving me the week to get TONS of stuff done. I sure did miss her, though.

On Friday, everyone came to Nashville to celebrate Ellie's birthday and the Fourth of July. It was really no big deal...just burgers, cake and ice cream. It was tons of fun to be with everyone. Thanks to Aunt Amanda for her darling dress that she wore to the party! Ellie is now taking a marathon nap....more to come on her REAL birthday. Yikes...we have been celebrating for 2 weeks!

2009-07-05T14:29:00.000-05:00

2009-07-05T14:26:00.000-05:00

2009-06-19T13:06:00.000-05:00

Ellie and Anna's 2nd Birthday Bash

2009-06-19T12:58:00.000-05:00

Ellie and Anna had their 2nd Birthday Bash today! Karen and I hosted the playgroup for our Sunday School class, and we had a blast. Ellie ate at least 14 cupcakes and cookies. Everyone seemed to have a wonderful time....thanks Karen, for including us in such a fun idea!

Happy Anniversary and 30th Birthday Brian!!!

2009-06-07T13:46:00.000-05:00

Six years ago today, I married my very best friend! He is such a wonderful husband and daddy. Thank you for all you do for our family. We can't imagine one minute of our lives without you! What a big weekend for Brian...30th Birthday and 6th Anniversary! I love you!

Charley's 5th Birthday

2009-06-07T13:41:00.000-05:00

Charles Frank Ivan Gene Shelton (Charley) celebrated his 5th birthday on May 26th! He always gets a big cup of ice cream to celebrate. On his first birthday, he ate it in one bite. I think that he has matured...because it took him a little while longer this time. (either that or he didn't care for the brain freeze!) Happy Birthday to the best dog on the planet!

O What Fun!

2009-06-07T13:36:00.000-05:00

We had the best time this weekend. Aunt JoAnne, Drew, Chris and Rachel came to visit. Chris just graduated from Texas A&M and will join the "real world" soon. He wanted to bring his girlfriend, Rachel, to Nashville to meet the family. She is just too cute and sweet...great job Chris! We ate lunch at the Opryland Hotel on Friday. Friday night, we went to South Street to celebrate Brian's 30th Birthday!! (more on that to come!) Saturday, we ate breakfast at the Loveless Cafe. We played baseball and bocce ball all day on Saturday. Es can really play ball for an 85 year old woman! It was so much fun. Ellie will not know what to do when she wakes up from her nap and she doesn't have 8 people waiting to play with her! Thanks for coming, guys! We can't wait to see you again!

More pics from the Shelton Country Club...

2009-06-01T20:36:00.000-05:00

We are those people...

2009-06-01T20:33:00.000-05:00

Have you ever driven down the road and seen a baby pool and tons of riding toys in someones driveway? I am sure you have thought to yourself..."Why don't they just go to the back yard???" Oh, we were "those" people today. Ellie is obsessed with "BUBBLES." (Translation-water and swimming pools) We bought a cheap baby pool today and both children LOVED it. Charley was the first to give it a try. Ellie soon followed and they both stayed in it for hours! Several cars passed by very slowly...I am sure they were wondering what kind of mom lets the dog swim with the child. Oh well...they had a blast.

Happy Memorial Day

2009-05-25T14:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Memorial Day! I just wanted to say a big thank you to all the men and women who serve so that we can be free. Thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice for my freedom. We love you Uncle Scott! Ellie is dressed in her Red, White, and Blue...just for you!

Best Birthday Ever!!!

2009-05-25T13:56:00.000-05:00

I celebrated my 31st birthday last week. It was one for the record books. Mom and Es came on Wednesday to meet my aunts from Ohio. Es went to Ohio with them on Thursday. We had a little cookout on Wednesday night and Brian brought me a birthday cake from Sweet and Sassy. This is big stuff, my friends! He left work and went to the best bakery in town and bought yours truly a cake. I was so impressed...(I think he was, too!)

On Thursday, Amanda and Addie came to Nashville. Calvin was playing in a golf tournament, so we got to hang out with them. We went shopping, ate lunch, and played at my house. We had lots of fun...wish we could do it more often.

On my actual birthday, Mom and I got to go shopping all day. We got a babysitter for Ellie and we just had a blast. I got lots of new clothes and didn't have to chase anyone out of clothes racks. We ate lunch at California Pizza Kitchen and didn't have to leave an enormous tip because of the mess my child made. We then went to get my haircut and have cupcakes at Gigi's! To top it all off, Mom babysat that night and Brian and I got to go on our first date in almost 2 years!!!!! Wow...what a day!

Pigtails...

2009-05-25T13:47:00.000-05:00

Ellie wore her hair in pigtails several days last week. It looked so cute until she took them out right before going in to Target. I am pretty sure she looked like a "Garbage Pail Kid." Anyone remember those from when we were little? I got several looks from people wondering if I really brought my child out in public looking like a rag-a-muffin! Oh yes, I did!

Drum roll.....

2009-05-01T16:13:00.000-05:00

I know that you all haven't been able to sleep at night waiting and anticipating what Ellie's big girl room was going to look like. Brian and I have had the best time sewing and getting it ready. It is all ready except for the bedskirts...they are in Mississippi! I have to look for just the right bedside tables and something to go over the beds...but all that will come with time. We are currently taking sewing orders....to be ready by Christmas...please have it in by May 15!

Just Watching the rain with my best buddy...

2009-05-01T16:04:00.000-05:00

Ellie LOVES to stand on the ottoman and look for Pogo, who is the neighbor's yellow lab that lives next door. Today, she and Mimi just wanted to watch the rain together! The outfit Ellie has on was Addie's outfit...she wore it the first week of school....when she was 3!!!!

2009-04-30T18:59:00.000-05:00

Ellie has become quite the little fashion diva! I let her pick out her outfit yesterday and she chose an orange and white smocked dress, black and white halloween bow, and red crocs! Tonight she chose her pajamas...Valentine's day pj's, orange Halloween bow, and rainboots. I think the common denominator is the Halloween bow!

Playdate with Nana (Anna)

2009-04-27T17:14:00.000-05:00

Ellie's sweet friend, Anna, came for a playdate this afternoon. It was incredibly hot for an April afternoon. It was music to our ears when we heard the sweet sounds of the ice cream truck turning on our street. Two bomb pops later and we were in businesss! Notice where Ellie stored her popsicle between licks...hope you can't get the swine flu from our driveway!!!!

Ellie's Vocabulary

2009-04-27T14:11:00.000-05:00

As most of you know...we are a little behind in the vocabulary department. When Ellie turned one, the pediatrician asked me if she had 10-15 words in her vocabulary....I just laughed. We are slowly but surely getting more and more words. Here are the words that we have:

Momma
DaDa
Meme- Charley and most all animals
Bubble
Ball
Cow=moo (you ask her to say cow and she says moo)
Dog= meme...said with lots and lots of love
Mow mow= lawn mowers, diggers, big trucks and horses (not sure how they got lumped in)
Baby
Babu= BA
Nana- Mrs. Dabney and her little friend Anna
Pop- Mr. Steve (she will make the pop sound but not put any air behind it)
Es-Es
NaNa- Ladye
Bubba- Our next door neighbor in Aberdeen that she loves!

Hello faithful reader(s)

2009-04-27T14:10:00.000-05:00

It has been brought to my attention by my follower from the longest distance (Alaska) that it has been too long since I have posted. I am truly sorry for making my readership wait so long to see what is going on in the life of the Sheltons! Not too much has been going on...we (yes, I did say WE) have been in the process of making curtains and pillows for Ellie's big girl room. Nana and Pop came this weekend and we had a wonderful time. Pop (or Bubba...as Ellie sometimes calls him) made Ellie's twin headboards and brought them to Nashville. We covered them with cute fabric. They look awesome. Brian and I sewed all last week on the curtains for her room. I am pretty sure that Brian will be quitting the practice of law soon to become a seamstress. Do you call a man a seamstress??? He is really great at sewing and especially at the measurements! (except that we made two whole panels and never put the foot down on the sewing machine!!!) Ladye sent us home with the first two seasons of Friday Night Lights, so we have been sewing and watching that!

Saturday night was Ellie's first night in her big girl bed. She crawled right in and never made a peep. I was so proud of her. I went to check on her during nap yesterday and she was sound asleep on the floor. I think she crawled out and couldn't figure out how to get back in. Fine with me...as long as she slept and didn't come out! Thanks Nana and Pop for all your hard work!!! We miss you and can't wait for you to come back.

Our friends Sammy and Lisa came to visit with their little one this weekend. Lisa ran the Music City Half Marathon this weekend. She did great and it was really fun to see them. That is Hailey in the picture with Brian and Ellie. Thanks to Mom and Es for our newest children...Lola and Mae. They are our new birds that have flowers in them. We love them!!!

Not so bad...

2009-04-07T13:58:00.000-05:00

We were a little worried about Ellie's Easter Egg Hunting skills on Saturday when she only found 1 egg. Well, she got a lot better on Sunday at sweet Lily Catherine's egg hunt. She did really well...check out all those eggs in that basket. Thanks Aunt Nan for our beautiful new Easter dress, bow and sweater!!! We normally don't wear rain-boots with our dresses, but it was supposed to storm.

My Old Easter Egg Hunt Pictures

2009-04-05T08:11:00.001-05:00

Here are the old pictures from the Easter Egg hunt my Mom had for me when I was little! Notice that the Easter Bunny in the picture is the same one we used yesterday!

2009-04-04T21:21:00.000-05:00

We had an absolute blast at Ellie's Easter Egg Hunt. There were over 30 families who came and it was so much fun. The Lord provided us with the most beautiful day...I couldn't have ordered a better one. Everyone seemed to have a really great time and stayed for a while. Ellie was probably the worst "egg hunter" in history. She found one (1) egg...took the candy out and threw the egg back on the ground. She ate 10 times more cupcakes than she found eggs. She probably got 10 people to give her a cupcake...who needs to talk when you get everything your little heart desires. Several friends stayed to help us clean up and we started jumping on Jack's (our 85 year old neighbor) trampoline! It was really fun. Thanks to the Aberdeen crew for helping me make all the decorations and cookies....the were a hit!!! The rabbit and signs were the same signs that Mom and Ladye had at our Egg hunts...they are 27 years old and in great shape...so neat! I have pictures of us with that rabbit...I wish I knew how to scan it in. We will post those soon.

2009-04-04T21:10:00.000-05:00

2009-04-04T21:08:00.000-05:00

2009-04-04T21:06:00.000-05:00

Ellie's Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-04T21:03:00.000-05:00

Storms....

2009-04-04T20:58:00.000-05:00

Charley HATES storms. He senses that they are coming hours before the weather even turns bad. I am beginning to think we should not have named him after 4 hurricanes. (Charley Frank Ivan Gene Shelton) We had terrible weather on Thursday. He sat in my lap most of the day. You know he is scared if he is letting Ellie ride him like a pony! Charley is seeking anyone who wants to send him on a vacation from Ellie...maybe to the dog spa, a cruise, or just a trip to your house....anyone???

Birthday Shout Out

2009-03-31T12:43:00.000-05:00

We couldn't wait to give a big birthday shout-out to the best mother-in-law ever! Today is Mrs. Dabney's (Nana or Bubba as she was called this weekend) birthday! She came and spent the weekend with us to celebrate her birthday and worked the whole time! My mom thinks that Nana and Pop should have their own traveling working roadshow! All Nana has to do is point that finger...and the job is done! We love you and we hope that your birthday is FABULOUS!!!!!

Not much going on here...

2009-03-31T12:37:00.000-05:00

It is not secret that Ellie loves a Mimi! (for the few non-family readers..all animals...especially dogs are Mimi's!) She wakes up in the morning and drags the ottoman to the window to look for Pogo. (Pogo is a yellow lab mimi that lives next door.) Yesterday, she and Charley both were on the ottoman looking. I had to inform the neighbors that we were not stalkers...just very simple minded people who think that dogs are ROCK STARS!!

We were running late for a playdate yesterday, and I told Ellie to get ready and head to the back door. After grabbing everything I needed, I looked on the back steps and there she sat...pretty as you please! She wouldn't wear that hat one time this winter, but let it get over 70 degrees and we need it!

Watch out Beyonce

2009-03-13T20:07:00.000-05:00

Ellie's favorite song is "Single Ladies" by Beyonce. (I know this will make my mother cringe...because she LOVES the Direct TV commercial!) The video came on this morning and Ellie went to town! Gotta love how she strips down right in the middle of the song!

Charley has competition...

2009-03-07T19:24:00.000-06:00

When we first got Charley, we took him to McDonald's for his birthday and bought him an ice cream cone. He was so confused when I told him that he could have it. He took the whole ice cream cone down in one bite. I am pretty sure if he has a brain...it was frozen. Well...Ellie could give him some competition! She went after that cone and took it down. The ice cream was dripping off of her face. (This was after she was dipping her chicken nuggets in caramel sauce. (actually...she was dipping the nugget and sucking the caramel off!) I am such a good mother...it is all about the balanced meals in the Shelton home!!!!

Ellie loves Drew!!!

2009-03-07T19:16:00.000-06:00

Ellie loves Drew Clark!! He has always been so sweet to her. He "babysat" her at a Vanderbilt football game in the fall. She walked right up to him and held his hand all the way to the car. Thanks Drew for taking good care of her!

Ellie's first birthday party

2009-03-07T19:14:00.000-06:00

Ellie was invited to her sweet friend Reagan's third birthday party today. The party was at the fire station and then on to McDonald's for more fun! Ellie had a blast! She was such a big girl going through the fire truck and listening to the siren. (Since she doesn't want to be a princess, maybe we could be a firewoman!!!) Thanks Reagan for inviting us. Happy Birthday!

I DO NOT want to be a princess...

2009-02-23T18:35:00.000-06:00

Sweet Addie gave Ellie this princess costume the other day. I put it on Ellie and she went bonkers. She couldn't get it off fast enough. So...Brian doesn't have to mortgage our house to take her to Disney to have breakfast with the princesses. I have a feeling we will be at the ball fields!!!

How to do a somersault...

2009-02-23T18:32:00.000-06:00

Just thought this was funny...Brian was trying to teach Ellie how to flip over and do a somersault. She wasn't totally catching on, so he decided to show her how to do it. It was hysterical! The whole playroom was shaking and he would always finish with that smile on his face.

2009-02-21T19:12:00.000-06:00

Today was the 2nd annual Father/Daughter Valentine Breakfast. It was so much fun! I was asked to help host this year and we had a wonderful time. It was so sweet to see all the little girls having so much fun with their daddies! I had a blast just standing back and watching. Ellie loved being with Brian all morning. He was the "cool" dad who was throwing all the kids in the air...he should sleep well tonight. Brian let her wear her new pink high heels to the breakfast because he thought they looked pretty with her outfit. Thank goodness her brought her real shoes in his pocket!

2009-02-20T15:10:00.000-06:00

Brian took me to the Arizona Biltmore to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of our first date! We have come a long way in 10 years. (Brian brought a rose to the KD house for me and the card was a Get Well Soon card. He said that all the other cards at the Kroger florist said I love you!) We had such a wonderful time getting massages and facials. The NBA All-Star game was in Phoenix, so we had a blast looking for celebrities. We saw lots of owners and GM's... I saw L.L. Cool J at the airport...whoo hoo! Thanks Brian for a most excellent vacation. I also want to thank Mom and Es for staying with little Ellie! We so appreciate it.

Ellie's First Haircut

2009-02-07T19:47:00.000-06:00

Ellie got her first haircut today...on her 19 month birthday! Her hair was really out of control, so we made our first trip to Sweet and Sassy. She was perfect the entire time. She never made a peep and she sat there like such a big girl. It looks so cute!!

Fun Day with Daddy

2009-02-07T19:42:00.000-06:00

Today was Daddy/Ellie day. I hosted a baby shower for our friend, Catherine Martin. Ellie and Daddy spent all morning together shopping and visiting around town. Ellie wore her Mississippi State cheerleader uniform that Aunt Nan bought her. Go Dogs...way to come back and beat Arkansas!!!

We have a long way to go....

2009-02-04T15:23:00.000-06:00

Ellie has a long way to go before she is ready to be a mommy. She loves to carry her baby around in a head-lock! This morning she shoved the baby in her microwave and turned it on!!! Yes...you read it correctly...she cooked her baby. A few minutes later, she stuffed it in the seat of her little pink Radio Flyer bike. When you are saying your prayers...say a little one for Ellie's baby!

Sorry Faithful readers...

2009-02-04T15:17:00.000-06:00

There hasn't been much to report at the Shelton home. Ellie has been sick for about two weeks. We have been to the doctor twice and seem to finally be getting better. This was what she looked like for two weeks...but she sure was cuddly! I used to think it was cruel when mom would say that she loved it when we had fever. I totally get what she was saying. The fever broke yesterday and she was just down right mean! Ha! I am glad that she is feeling a little better.

What an Incredible Day!

2009-01-20T20:24:00.000-06:00

I just have to say that I have had the best day today. It was wonderful to watch the historic events of today unfold. I have been glued to the television all day. I think it is incredible that in Ellie's lifetime...she will never know a time when it seemed impossible for an African American to be President of the United States. Whether you are a Republican or a Democrat, you have to be excited about the vibe and energy in America. I think the Obamas are wonderful and gracious people and I know he will be a great leader! The United States is the greatest country on Earth. I will pray for President Obama each and every day because he has quite a task before him. God Bless America!!

What a Fun Weekend

2009-01-18T14:48:00.000-06:00

Ellie, Jack and Catherine

Ellie wearing Pop Pop Pop's cowboy boots!

Pop Pop Pop was a little worn out after raking leaves all day. We changed out his glasses while he was asleep!

Ellie, Nana, and Pop Pop Pop

We had such a fun weekend. Friday night, Nana and Pop Pop Pop came to see Ellie. She was so excited and that was the last time she even looked at Brian and me. She had two constant playmates for the entire weekend. She led them around by their fingers all weekend! Saturday morning, we ate breakfast with Brian's grandparents and his Aunt Nancy. It was great to see everyone. During naptime, we finished raking all the leaves in the backyard. Doesn't everyone entertain their in-laws by making them rake their yard? (and bring their own raking equipment????) After naptime, Meredith, Chris, Jack and Catherine came over on their way to a wedding! It was so fun to get to see them. Ellie, Jack and Catherine loved playing with Nana!

Ellie will soon wake up from her nap today and her playmates will not be here. Everyone needs to start praying right now that we will be good enough for her today! Have a great Martin Luther King Day. I am looking forward to such a historic week ahead!

Ellie's Pig Tails

2009-01-18T14:35:00.000-06:00

Ellie's hair is getting long and wild. I really have no idea how to control cute curly hair. My mom wouldn't let me have long hair until I could take care of it myself. Of course...when I could take care of it...I wasn't sure I wanted it. Thus, my hair has been short my entire life. On Friday, I decided to see if El's hair would go it pig tails. It was so cute. She took them out at least one hundred times. Now, she runs when she sees me coming with the brush. It was cute while it lasted!!!

Just a Swingin....

2009-01-10T14:35:00.000-06:00

Nothing much to report at the Shelton house. Brian asked me to please post something because he was tired of seeing his face come up on the blog. Ellie and I were outside this week and these are a few of the pictures I took. It seems like this was the only pretty day we have had in a long time. We are gathering the wood to start building our ark...

Not Quite the Loveless Cafe...

2009-01-04T13:08:00.000-06:00

What a morning! Let's just say that we won't be getting calls from the Loveless Cafe any time soon! Brian's assistant, Mary Ann Brown, gave him pancake mix, syrup and bacon for Christmas. (Sidenote...I thought Brian told me that our neighbor Jack gave us the pancakes. I went on and on in his thank-you note about how much we were going to love the pancakes. I saw him before church and apologized...but he was confused as to what I was talking about! Let's just hope he barely read it and threw it away!) Back to the story...Brian has been planning to cook his girls breakfast on Sunday morning. When Ellie and I went into the kitchen...this is what we found. The top picture is Brian trying to shape Ellie's pancake into an animal. I think the animal looks more like road-kill!!! (I realize that you might get that confused with eggs...but it is a pancake!) He cooked the bacon for 10 minutes in the microwave. We are still sitting in our house with all the windows and doors wide open. There is a new rule at the Shelton house....NO BACON! He did get the hang of it...and made me a really cute heart-shaped pancake! We laughed so hard at how everything was going wrong...including thanking the wrong person! I promise that we will do better if you come and visit us...or we can get to the real Loveless Cafe in no time!!!!

Happy 60th Birthday to my best friend...

2009-01-02T20:17:00.000-06:00

Happy Belated Birthday to the most wonderful woman in the world. I can only hope that I will be half the person that she is. She wakes up every morning thinking about what she can do for someone else. She would give ANYONE the shirt off of her back. I have never met anyone with a bigger heart than my mom. She has done more for others in her 60 years than most people ever hope to do. Thank you for everything you do for me and the example you have set. I love you with all my heart!!!!

Christmas 2008

2009-01-02T20:09:00.000-06:00

Christmas 2008 was tons of fun. We started our holiday in Memphis with Nana and Pop. We had a great time...except for Brian running over an azalea and giving his dad a heart attack! The Kirkland Christmas party was lots of fun. Ellie had so much fun entertaining everyone. She was not so great with her cousin, Lilliana...she didn't really like sharing her toys and decided to bonk her on the head. I am sure Lilliana will remember it for years to come and get her back very soon.

On Sunday, Ellie and I headed to Aberdeen. Ellie was not so happy on Sunday and Monday. After waking up with a rash on Tuesday, I decided to take her to the doctor. She had Fifths disease and ear infections. After getting medicine, we were on the right track. It was so awesome getting to see Uncle Scott and Aunt Lindsey. (they now live in Alaska!) Chris and Drew were tons of fun, as always. The Lord girls are growing up so fast...it seems like yesterday I was babysitting them for the summer! Aunt Nan came home looking like a Super Model. I can't believe I didn't even get a picture to post.

Ellie got more than she could ever imagine for Christmas. We have had a blast playing with it all since we got home. Thanks to everyone for all the wonderful "loot!" I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. Happy New Year!

Help!!!

2008-12-18T18:58:00.000-06:00

Dear Faithful Readers of Mom's Blog,

This is Charley, and I NEED your help. I am four years old and have been told that I am a very sweet dog. I had the best life up until about...oh 17 months ago. Mommy and Daddy let me eat all the people food that I wanted. I got to sleep all day while they were at work. I got to go on walks. Then, one day in July Mommy left and came back with this little person. She wasn't so bad at first...she just cried a little. She has grown up and she walks and talks (not any language that I understand) and all she does is torture me ALL day long. She got in big trouble tonight because she threw all of her food on the floor. (which was kind of nice for me!) Then she found a red sharpie and wrote all over her face. She took all the clothes out of her drawers that Mommy had just neatly folded. (and thought it would be funny to put the pants on her head.) And...she broke a Christmas ornament. That won her a free trip to bed...no passing go...and no collecting $200.00.

If you are reading this and would like to help me...please give me a call. I need your help. Daddy said that I get to stay with Uncle Adam for a few days and I can't wait. I don't even mind not being with my Mommy and Daddy on Christmas day. I am looking forward to the break from flower head.

Thanks for your concern,
Charley Shelton

Snow in Alaska....

2008-12-11T18:41:00.000-06:00

Just thought I would post the difference between Nashville snow and Alaska snow.... I think this was even taken a month ago!!! I will be excited to visit them...and excited to come back home!!!

Uncle Scott and Aunt Lindsey have nothing on us...

2008-12-11T18:39:00.000-06:00

My brother and sister-in- law just moved to Alaska in October. They are always sending pictures of themselves and my neice and nephew (Jersey and Biscuit) in TONS of snow! I thought they might be impressed with the snow falling in Nashville!!!

Ellie Shelton...Ready to take on the World

2008-12-11T09:24:00.000-06:00

This has been quite a morning! My house was clean when we woke up this morning. NOT ANY MORE! Every drawer is unpacked and there are messes EVERYWHERE! Ellie likes to unzip her pj's and show off her chest and belly! She also loves to wear Brian's riding glasses. We call her "Hollywood!" As I was teaching her all the countries, their capitals, and a major export...she decided she also needed a scarf! Not only is she the smartest "non-talking" 17 month old...she is the best dressed, too!

Fun week in Aberdeen

2008-12-07T15:18:00.000-06:00

Ellie and I headed to Aberdeen for a few days last week. We had a great time. Ellie loved getting to see all her favorite Mississippi friends. BA fed her well and she LOVES her chocolate chip pound cake!!! YUM! She loved swinging in NaNa's backyard. She had such a fun time with Es. She loved going over to Madie's house and snooping through her drawers and playing "Where's Bubba?" She loved the cat at my dad's house. I spent a whole day trying to get a cute Christmas card picture. Nothing turned out. After dinner, NaNa took her clothes off and she streaked through the whole house laughing and giggling. She sat down in front of the Christmas tree and gave the cutest smiles....NAKED...of course. Oh well.

Happy Birthday Amanda!!!

2008-12-07T15:04:00.000-06:00

I have to apologize for not giving my very best friend in the whole world a birthday "shout out" yesterday. I did call her bright and early, but I just never got on the computer yesterday. Amanda is the sweetest, most fun, loving person I know. I am so honored to call her my best pal. I taught with Amanda at DeSoto Central Elementary. I was scared to go talk to her, because she was the "cool" teacher. She was so cute and well dressed and everyone wanted their child in her classroom. Someone convinced me to go talk to her about starting our Masters together! We started together and had a blast. Notice that I said...started.....we are both Master student drop-outs!!!! I was also nervous about her boyfriend, (now husband) Calvin. All I knew about him was that he went to Ole Miss, was a CPA, and lived at Southwind in Memphis. Little did I know...his dining room chairs were so old that I sat in it and it fell to the floor!!!!! There was nothing to worry about there! Amanda and Calvin are two of the most wonderful friends, parents, and Christians that I know. Happy Birthday one day late!!! Love you!

Decorating the Christmas Tree

2008-12-01T14:55:00.000-06:00

Yesterday we decorated our Christmas tree! Ellie really enjoyed playing with the lights. She had fun putting a few ornaments on the tree. Her favorite part of the day was just getting to play with her daddy! They played outside and had a blast. Santa Clause comes to see you when you finish decorating the tree. This way you know you have been a good girl/boy and that he will be coming back to see you. He came and brought Ellie and Brian a present. It was really fun to watch them get their presents on the front porch. What a fun weekend!!!

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-12-01T14:36:00.000-06:00

We have so much to be thankful for this year. We had a wonderful Thanksgiving in Memphis with Brian's entire family. His cousin's were so sweet with Ellie...and she LOVED them! We ate WAY too much and had a blast! Thanks to everyone for a wonderful weekend.

Fun Weekend with Friends

2008-11-24T12:18:00.000-06:00

I am sorry about 3 posts in one day! I just wanted to write about our fun weekend with friends. Amanda and "Ms." Pat came this weekend for some fun shopping! My sweet husband went to work at 5 am on Saturday so that he could be home to have "Daddy and Ellie Football Saturday!" The girls and I went to Tis the Season and all over Franklin doing some retail therapy! Thanks girls for coming...can't wait until next year.

The Baby Jesus

2008-11-24T12:11:00.000-06:00

Ellie loves the Baby Jesus...any Baby Jesus. BA gave her an advent calendar and she has carried around the Baby Jesus for weeks. She puts him in her shopping cart, Cozy Coupe, purse...just about anywhere. She can always produce him when you ask her. Our friends the McMullen's gave her a Fontanini Holy Family for Christmas last year. We opened it this morning and she was so excited about the Baby Jesus. I got her all ready for nap time and realized that she still had him in her hand. I guess there is no better person to nap with than the Baby Jesus! I pray that she always loves him as much as she does now!!!!

***Update: Ellie was crying so I went in to check on her. Minnie Mouse and The Baby Jesus were kicked out of her bed. Not sure if they were causing trouble or what...

Ellie's New Favorite Snack

2008-11-24T12:03:00.000-06:00

Ellie has decided that her "new favorite" snack is Charley's dog food. I think they have a little co-op going on that they didn't tell us about. Charley loves to eat her food and vice versa. Brian caught her in the dog food this morning before work. I decided I would make her a little necklace out of bells...so that I could know where she was. Here is what I found in the laundry room after lunch. She was having a blast digging in the food. When I asked her what she was doing she looked at me like I couldn't possible be talking to her. When I asked again, she slowly put it in Charley's bowl. She was only trying to help!!!

Daddy's girl...

2008-11-16T12:17:00.000-06:00

As I was getting Ellie ready for church this morning I decided to try on my coat from when I was little. It was a very special coat...Ladye made it for me and then her grandchildren wore it. I just wanted to see how long it would be before Ellie could wear it. Ha Ha....TODAY! It fit beautifully! She looked so sweet and got so many compliments at church. I am pretty sure we were all around 5 when we wore it...Ellie is 16 months. I guess it is fair to say she gets her size from her daddy! When we got home from church, I decided to try the dress on that Ladye made for me. Guess what...it fits too! Meg wore this to our rehearsal dinner. (She was in Kindergarten!!!) I am raising the jolly green giant. (But she sure does look sweet in my clothes!!!) Thanks LaLa! What a fun day.

Trying to get a Christmas Card Picture

2008-11-15T16:12:00.000-06:00

This morning we went to the Opryland Hotel to try and get a good picture of Ellie for our Christmas cards. It was fun...but she wasn't really into sitting still for a picture. She seemed more like the Grinch that Stole Christmas. I think we got several good ones. Thanks to Aunt Nan for her beautiful new Christmas dress! We love it!

Lipstick Jungle

2008-11-12T18:16:00.000-06:00

Ellie was playing so well in the playroom this afternoon. I thought maybe..just maybe..I could run to the bathroom without a 16 month old and a chocolate lab. This is what she looked like when I came back. She was also chasing Charley trying to put it on his nose. I promise I wasn't gone 30 seconds. I have no idea where she even found the lipstick. I had been looking for it for months!! I guess we will have to work on how to correctly apply lipstick!

Monkey's Treehouse

2008-11-12T18:12:00.000-06:00

Tuesday, we went with our sweet friends Anna and Caroline to Monkey's Treehouse. Monkey's Treehouse is a really cool place for kids to play. They have everything you could possibly imagine. Of course, Ellie's favorite was the truck. Thanks to the Bryan's for spending the morning with us!

Happy Birthday Aunt Steph!!!!

2008-11-02T15:17:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to send a birthday shout-out to one of our 4 faithful readers....Aunt Steph! We hope you are having a great birthday! See you soon. Make sure Adam takes you somewhere really nice for dinner! Ha Ha!

Happy Halloween!!!

2008-10-31T20:51:00.000-05:00

We had a great Halloween! We went to a Halloween party and everyone was supposed to dress up. As of this morning, Brian and I didn't have a costume. I saw several cute costumes on the Today Show this morning and decided that I could make one. I went as a gas tank and Brian went as the gas pumper! The party was in such a great neighborhood. The bottom picture is of tons of pumpkins that the entire street carved. It was really cool. Ellie trick or treated for an hour and came away with about 8 pieces of candy. (all of which were eaten before we got home...thanks Brian!) As we were putting Ellie to bed, she threw everything up! I guess it wouldn't be a good Halloween if you didn't eat so much that you make yourself sick! We hope everyone had a safe and fun Halloween!