Adventures of Tate

Easter 2011

2011-04-24T16:04:00.003-05:00

Each Year since Tate was born we've taken a family picture on Easter. This year there was an extra face in the photo. Henry fit nicely into our family tradition. I must say I like this picture much better than last year's picture (I was 6 or 7 months pregnant). I'm not sure who's more crazy about who. Tate and Henry get along so much better than I ever dreamed they would.
God is good!

Summer fun

2010-12-28T21:01:00.014-06:00

So I have all but abandoned the blog since Henry was born. I knew I'd have my hands full, but the level of "busy" surpassed what I had anticipated. So here is a feeble attempt to post a few pictures of summer fun Hardin style.

A little brotherly love

2010-09-18T22:29:00.003-05:00

I was actually taking pictures of Henry this afternoon when Tate wandered into Henry's room and wanted in on the photo shoot. I managed to get a couple of pictures of both of the boys. I can't explain why, but I've found over the past 3 months that the ones with both boys seem to be my favorites.

Then there was this one picture of Tate I just had to share... Tate was playing with his basketball in a laundry basket, which he decided was a submarine. Where does he come up with this stuff?

Family photos

2010-08-29T16:14:00.007-05:00

It occurred to me recently that I haven't pulled out the "big" camera and taken any pictures of Henry since he was born. So, I decided to remedy that.
I got the four of us dressed up (well sort of) and away we went to a local park.
Once there Chuck and I took pictures of our sweet little family.
I warmed up with Tate in the "elbow" tree.

Then we headed for the shade of a tree near the lake. First up were the boys...

Next we added dad...

Then Chuck and I traded places...

Then we pulled out the tripod and got a family photo...

By then Tate was done being still. Plus he had spotted the castle playground nearby. So he and Chuck took off to have some well deserved fun. With the guys gone I put the tripod away and turned my attention, or should I say my camera, to Henry.

I didn't really get any good ones because the little guy was asleep. Argh! Oh well. Maybe next time!!!

Big Brother

2010-06-26T09:34:00.004-05:00

Tate's a big brother!
After going to daycare for the better part of the day Tate got to leave school a couple of hours early to meet his new baby brother. From what I've been told Tate was smitten with Henry from the first time he laid eyes on the little guy.
From the hallway outside the hospital nursery he watched as Henry was given a bath.
"He's crying like baby," Tate observed.
"That's because he is a baby," one of his grandparents quipped.
A little later in the hospital room with Chuck, Henry and I, he was adamant about holding his "liddle bruda."
Chuck had him sit in a chair and then handed our little bundle of joy to the proud toddler. Tate was very careful and cautious with him (with some coaching from mom and dad). He seemed intrigued by the little guy.
Ever the active child, Tate soon had his fill of being still. After handing the baby off Tate slipped into the role of photographer. Armed with his Little Tikes "made tough for toddlers" camera he started snapping pictures of Henry and me, Henry and Chuck, just Henry, the floor, the door, the hospital furniture, etc.
It was a big day for Tate, filled with excitement over a new baby brother, visiting with all of his grandparents and being in a strange place. Most importantly it was the first day of Tate's life as a big brother!

Memorial Day at the lake

2010-06-01T21:55:00.004-05:00

Chuck, Tate and I headed to Mountain Home for Memorial Day weekend. The weekend served as our last hoorah before baby Henry arrives. While Chuck and I didn't do anything too wild and crazy Tate seemed to have a big time splashing in the water, clowning around on the boat and floating in the tube.

Of course it wasn't all fun in the sun... there was some napping too. My little guy smooth passed out on two occasions -- once with his sippy cup still in hand...

and again while I was pulling a family friend on the wakeboard. He actually crashed in an upright position. Because the sun was shining brightly we covered him up with a towel. Every so often you would hear a rather loud snore come from underneath the Scooby towel.

What Tate's Been Up To Lately

2010-05-16T22:20:00.004-05:00

So it's been awhile since I posted to the blog. Feeling a little twinge of guilt that maybe I'm letting Tate down in some strange way, I decided this afternoon to pull a few pictures off the camera for a new post. So here we go. We'll start out with a lazy Sunday afternoon at the house...
A boy and his dog, or his daddy's dog, always make for a cute photo.

A couple of weeks ago Tate pulled out a coloring book and some crayons for some quality coloring, with Cheyenne. Chey obviously hadn't intended to serve as Tate's table, but I guess she thought "he's not acting spastic and he's not hurling anything in my direction. I suppose I can handle this." Plus I think Chuck might have been petting her. She'll put up with A LOT if she's getting loved on by her daddy!
I have to admit the interactive coloring lasted much longer than I thought it would. But apparently coloring takes a lot out of a little fellow. Before too long Tate crashed out right there by his coloring budding. What a sweet old girl! (She's 10!)

Let's not get the wrong idea about the little man. It's not all coloring books and naps at the Hardin house. There is plenty of guy stuff going on too. Tate has a hand-me-down 4-wheeler he enjoys cruising around on in the yard and the driveway.

What can you say about a boy and his wheels?

Switching gears... my handsom little devil was kind enough to pause from the fun and games to pose for a pictures by these beautiful roses last weekend! Amazingly no flowers were harmed in the shooting of this picture!!!

Easter

2010-04-05T22:47:00.003-05:00

Our Easter weekend started with an Easter Egg Hunt at church. It was super muddy outside so the powers that be made the executive decision to let the little kids hunt for eggs inside. Tate was so funny. Mid-hunt he would stop, crack up an egg and check out what was inside.

Following the hunt children were allowed to pet a real live bunny, which Tate thought was pretty cool.

Easter Sunday began with our weekly visit to church. We were running a little late, but I managed to snap a quick picture of Tate before we hurried inside for Sunday services.

After church and lunch we headed back home where Tate discovered the basket full of goodies the Easter Bunny left for him. There were eggs with match box cars...

and a cool bunny on a trike haulin' jelly beans among other things.

And of course what kind of holiday would it be if I didn't drag out the tripod and torture the guys with family photos. Tate and Chuck sat in their designated spot while I got the camera and tripod all set up. Tate was especially amused by the timer mechanism on my camera. Chuck was equally amused at Tate's reaction to the timer.

As for the family photo, this is what I came up with..

Then there was my budding photographer son. Seriously, Tate actually took this picture of Chuck and me.

Tate's 3rd birthday

2010-03-21T23:01:00.006-05:00

Look who's 3!!!!!

Once upon a time someone I knew posed this question: Why is it that at 50 years old my birthday lasts for about 15 minutes, while my 2-year-old granddaughter's birthday last for 3 days?
At the time I laughed, but over the past weekend it rang true.
Tate's birthday fell on a Friday this year so there were festivities for days.
On the little guy's actual birthday Chuck and I ordered a cookie cake that we took to his daycare for a small celebration.

(Notice the very anxious little paw in the lower left corner.)

The next day was his birthday party... a Kindermusik party, complete with a room full of toddlers.

Add cake and juice boxes for everyone...

and you have a bunch of happy kiddos.

Monster Trucks

2010-03-07T14:45:00.007-06:00

Chuck and Tate had a guys night out Saturday. They went to the monster truck show at the Convocation Center. They met up with a couple of guys (Jason and Carter) from church...

for some serious testosterone release.

Tate was mesmerized...

...by the monster trucks!

This one was Tate's favorite!

I wasn't there, but I think it's safe to say all good time was had by all!

Springtime play

2010-03-07T14:32:00.003-06:00

Saturday was such a pretty day! We took advantage of the warm weather and ventured outside to play. Tate's tricycle got a good workout when he hit the open road (a.k.a. the school parking lot across the street from our house).
He rode and rode until he got tired.

Later in the day we made our way to Craighead Forest Park where Tate had an absolute blast playing at the Rotary Park playground. Among other things the "lounge swing" was a hit with the little guy. The sunshine on our faces did us all some good!

A few things from Christmas

2010-03-07T14:02:00.003-06:00

For Christmas one of Tate's grandmother's put a plastic "Slinky" in his stocking. I don't think he's old enough for a slinky though...

(Yes, his pants are on backwards. He's not old enough to be trusted to get dressed on his own either.)
A different grandma got Tate his first magazine subscription. "High Five" is an off-shoot from "Highlights," and is geared to younger children. Like many adults, Tate enjoys lounging on a Saturday morning, reading the latest issue.

He's also figured out another use for magazines... telescope!

Fish Update

2010-02-10T19:51:00.002-06:00

I'm sad to announce the last of Tate's guppies have passed. We were down to 2 and they both went this week. The third guppy went to the fish bowl in the sky on Sunday. I suppose the sadness and loneliness was just too much for the remaining guppy. He was spotted "sleeping" on the bottom of the fish tank last night. So, the fourth and final guppy was buried at sea.
I just wanted to say a public thank you to the guy at Petco who said the guppies were our best bet. Thanks so much!
Luckily Tate hasn't noticed they're gone so I haven't had to explain the whole death thing just yet.
I think we're going to invest in some of those ultra cheap gold fish (a.k.a. feeder fish) from Petco.

Hammer Golf

2010-01-22T14:54:00.003-06:00

So Tuesday I was relaxing on the couch after a long day at work when I heard a familiar sound: WHACK!
Next I heard what sounded like a ball rolling across the floor before crashing into the wall, then there was a giggle.
Tate had been playing in his room, but wandered into the living room. As he rounded the corner I spotted a toy hammer in his right hand.
Just as I suspected, Hammer Golf.
Hammer Golf is a game that one might say was born of necessity. Last spring Tate got a toy golf club set as an Easter gift. It didn't take long for my little bruiser to break 2 of the 3 clubs that came with the set. The third was hidden after Tate invented another game we call Whack the Dog.
With no clubs left my little innovator had to come up with something to hit those little plastic golf clubs with.

Future Farmer of America

2010-01-22T13:58:00.003-06:00

The other day we were all hanging out at the house when I noticed it was awfully quiet. The two of them had quietly retired to the study. The door was slightly cracked so I peeked in to see what was going on. Tate was sitting in Chuck's lap, both engrossed in something on the computer screen. What are they looking at? I just had to know!
I let myself in and asked, "what are you guys doing?"
The answer: "farming."
My little guy was helping his dad on the farm, the Farmville farm that is. OMG! I think farming is dumb, but Tate seemed to enjoy clicking the mouse and occasionally "play typing."
"It's working," Tate squealed at one point while the guys clicking the mouse to plow a field (I think?).
Honestly, I'm not sure who was having more fun. Plus, it did my heart good too to see my guys genuinely enjoying some quality time together... even if they were farmin'.

Snow Day

2010-01-07T22:05:00.009-06:00

So today was the first, and hopefully the last, snow day of 2010. Tate and I enjoyed some cartoons in our PJs until mid-morning before wandering outside to play in the snow. Once outside Tate was mesmerized.
"It's snowing!"
"No baby, it already snowed," I explained.
We roamed around the backyard for a minute before deciding to head around front where the wind was not at fierce.
On the front side of the house Tate kept pointing at my car and saying "machine." (I guess he took in a few too many episodes of Scooby Doo, complete with the Mystery Machine, on Christmas Break.)
The little man is lingering around my car so I show him how, because the snow was so powdery, you can wipe it right off.
Oops!
He took it upon himself to remove all the snow from the molding above the wheel wells, back bumper and hitch on the back half of my car.

Eventually he lost interest in the snow removal project.
Walking along the driveway in his rain boots he noticed he was making tracks. So... he starts to stomp, stomp, stomp...

and then takes a moment to admire his work.

After the stomping we ventured out into the road, mainly because I was curious if there was any ice under the snow. There was. But just a tinsy, winsy bit.
We kind of slipped and slid a little, but never went crashing down.

Once safely inside Tate immediately ripped his hat off and began the task of peeling off the layers I had carefully dressed him in in an effort to keep him warm. Shaking off the cold myself, I caught a glimpse of Tate and I couldn't help myself. Even though he said he needed to go potty, I had to snap a few pictures of his hat hair.

Even with crazy hair he's still cute as a bug!

Fish update

2010-01-02T23:03:00.002-06:00

As we were getting ready to turn in for the evening Chuck spotted it -- the first fish to swim belly up in Tate's aquarium. Flipper, we'll call him Flipper because know one should be laid to rest without a name. So Flipper was buried at sea, or at least in the greater Jonesboro sewer system.
Tate doesn't know yet. I'm not sure how he'll take it. He actually helped Chuck feed them this afternoon. He's a tough kid. It probably won't even phase him. No condolence cards, please.

Tate's first pet

2010-01-01T21:24:00.003-06:00

For Christmas Tate got an aquarium (among other things). Chuck set it up on Christmas day with the promise that Tate would get a fish very, very soon. Well Chuck left the day after Christmas on a scuba diving trip in Florida. Chuck and I talked about it and decided to wait until we were all together before buying a fish. Today was the big day!
After a late lunch we headed to Petco for what I suspect will be the first of many trips in the name of one of Tate's pets.

Tate was super excited about picking out a fish. Chuck and I both asked Tate several times, 'which one do you want?"
He kept going from tank to tank saying "that one... that one!"
Eventually, after Chuck talked with Jeff, the fish expert at the pet store, we decided on guppies. Obviously not my first pick, but apparently they are hard to kill. Instead they will reproduce, and if we need to thin out our fish population we can take them to Petco.

All settled in their new home are 2 male and 2 female guppies. For now. We don't have names for any of them yet. I'm sure there will be updates!

He's a Natural

2009-12-14T22:31:00.006-06:00

For the past several weeks Tate and I have been logging several hours piled up in my bed watching cartoons as I've been muttling through first trimester fatigue. My bed just seems way more comfy than lounging on the couch.
Anyhow, one night last week we made the long journey up the stairs and to my pregnancy den. I was ironing and Tate was watching TV. Correction, Tate was not digging anything on TV.
My first effort Cartoon Network - which for whatever reason lately seems to air fewer cartoons than most channels (ARGH!) - failed. There was some cheesy adolescent movie on.
On to Disney Channel... Hannah Montana... no thank you.
We click on down to Nick.
Nope.
I flip down several more channels.
Oh, basketball!
Not so much.
Eventually I got sick of the whining and the "no, that one," which was excellent the opposite of what he meant.
So what do I do? At the time I thought it was a stroke of genius. I relinquish control of the remote.
"Here Tate, find something you want to watch. Hit that button to change the channel."
You would have thought I handed the kid the keys to the candy store.
My little man discovered the joy of channel surfing.
For a solid 10 minutes my little munchkin changed the channel again and again and again. He didn't stop, just kept on flipping, mesmerized... I'm not sure by what, but definitely mesmerized.
Maybe it was the blur of shapes and colors or simply the power that accompanies the remote.
Being the photo-happy mama that I am I dashed for my camera and snapped a couple of pictures to capture the moment.
I think he looks a lot like his daddy here. What do you think?

Decorating the tree

2009-12-13T18:31:00.003-06:00

Though this will be Tate's third Christmas this was the first year he helped decorate the tree.

He did a really good job. We did, however, relegate him to the cheesy satin balls Chuck and I bought for our first Christmas tree. We saved the more delicate ornaments for adults hands and a higher spot on the tree.

I think my little guy had more fun retrieving rogue ornaments than he did hanging them.

Tate's such a monkey see, monkey do child. As Chuck was stringing the beads on the tree Tate jumped in to "help." Eventually they got it done.

For the final touch the boys placed our angel atop the tree. No, your eyes aren't deceiving you, that is a stuffed animal, a dog to be exact, complete with angel wings and a halo. It's a long story for another day and it dates back to the same era as the cheesy satin balls.
Merry Christmas!

Thanksgiving

2009-11-29T16:59:00.002-06:00

This was Tate's third Thanksgiving. We spent it at Chuck's Pawpaw and Mawmaw Johnson's house. In addition to Chuck's grandparents and Chuck, Tate and I, were Chuck's mom and dad and Uncle Randy and Aunt Rita. Tate was mesmerized by all the food.

I tried to get him to try the dressing... but that didn't work out. I just don't know where he could be getting these picky-eater tendencies from????

Besides some baked beans and a roll, Tate wasn't all that interested in food. Forever what he did eat was enough to give Tate a bean msutache.

After lunch there was plenty of fun to be had. Tate took a ride on Chuck's shoulders.

But the biggest hit of the day was his new "piano." Tate earned it by being accident free for 7 consecutive days, at home and day care. I promised him when he made it pee-my-pants-free for a whole week he would get a paino. I'm so proud!

2009-11-21T22:24:00.002-06:00

On an outing to our local mall this weekend we stopped for a little play time. As is part of Tate's nature the little squirt found something to climb on.

Then my darling Tate spotted his daddy. We all know these two must have adult supervision.
So back to the story... their eyes met and I knew immediately that something I would not approve of was about to happen.

Tate's a big fan of the cartoon "Little Einsteins." As a result I know all the words to all the episodes because Tate just has to watch them over and over and over again.
I observed the devilish grin on both of their faces and thought: blast off!

And that's just what he did. I'm almost positive my heart stopped for an instant. As you can see from this picture Tate is parallel with the top of bench Chuck is sitting on. SCARY!!!!

But never fear, Chuck caught Tate and the two had a good giggle. Tate climbed on the lion and baled off several more times before moving on to some other form of amusement.

Two of Kind

2009-11-13T21:58:00.003-06:00

Like father like son, two peas in a pod, monkey see monkey do, Mini Me, Chuck Jr., I've heard (and thought) them all. Here's an example.

Tate and Chuck like to lounge in bed and watch Phineas and Ferb before bed time.

Tate has an announcement

2009-11-06T17:22:00.003-06:00

Tate has something he'd like to share with the class. (Read his shirt.)

Just in case you couldn't read the shirt with Tate in it:

Halloween

2009-10-31T21:37:00.008-05:00

Tate never ceases to amaze me. Tonight we went trick-or-treating with The Streets.

At the first house we coax Tate to the front door and prompt him to say "trick or treat." Well I'm not sure if he actually said trick or treat or not. However, after the nice lady put candy in his neon green jack-o-lantern he promptly pushed past the woman of the house, following their yellow lab. Apparently once inside he plopped down to dig in to his candy and hang out with their dog. Chuck went in after him. As the guys were coming out the man came out and was talking to us. He said, "hey I know you!" I looked and sure enough it was the "rug guy." You know the guy that brings the rugs to the office and takes away the others away to be cleaned. So I guess that made me feel a little better knowing that Tate didn't help himself into a complete strangers house. Oh well!

We pressed on. The kids hit a few more house before Tate discovered there were leaves on the ground. I don't know why, but Tate is fascinated with leaves. Every time we're outside Tate brings me a leaf. It's almost like he's bringing me a flower.
Anyhow I think we ended up with 3 leaves in his jack-o-lantern.

If you didn't notice in the last picture Chuck dressed up for Halloween too. He was the one and only Shaggy. They were so cute together!

The little guy was really getting into the swing of things, checking his stash every so often.

Finally we got home and Tate dove into his buck-o-candy. "CANDY!" he said as he came up with a Hershey's chocolate sucker. Apparently it was pretty good because he was walking around the house showing it off.

On Friday Tate was allowed to dress up at daycare for Halloween. I didn't want to deal with the Scooby costume. At our church's fall festival Wednesday evening I learned the Scooby costume is hot. So I opted for something a little more simple. Thinking quick on my feet I decided on a fireman. It worked out well. Tate loves his rain boots and is constantly running around the house in his fire hat.

By the way, here's a little something to back up the theory about Tate being too hot in the Scooby costume indoors.

That's right this is Tate in his underwear in a bounce house at our church's fall festival. Once inside the bounce and safely out of the reach of his mommy he striped out of his costume and threw it over the side.

Run Tate Run!

2009-10-30T19:22:00.005-05:00

Last weekend Tate found himself in Conway.
What was he doing in Conway?
Well, he was there to cheer his mom on. You see she was running in a half marathon. He missed seeing her cross the finish line by just a few minutes, that and one other small detail: He was asleep.
Thanks to Grandpa Mike, who carried him a long, long way from the parking spot to the finish line, Tate finally made it. Not long after he arrived at the finish line he woke up, happy to see mom and dad and even more excited to see a big bounce house slide. He played there for several minutes, giving his mom a chance to catch her breathe. Eventually he posed for a picture with mom and dad.

Parker Homestead

2009-10-17T21:46:00.005-05:00

I've lived in Jonesboro for 13 years and I had never been to Parker Homestead (south of Harrisburg near Whitehall). The other day Chuck brought home a flyer promoting dates for the "homecoming" weekends. What the heck, I thought, let's take Tate. It'll be fun! I was right and wrong.
First off it was extremely muddy! Yuck! Stir in chilly weather and you have the makings for a rather cranky child and an even more cranky mother. Chuck, he could have cared less. Being part little boy, the mud didn't bother him and being well insulated the cold didn't phase him either.
Everything started off well enough. We caravaned down with the Streets (John, Becky and Emalyn). They brought a wagon for the kids to ride in, a stroke of genius on their part.
First stop, a gigantic barn, which the kids thought was cool. Next we dallied over to pet this ornery old white mule.

Tate had fun on the see-saw with Uncle John...

And rocking on the front porch with Emalyn...
He was mesmerized by all the sites. He was especially fond of the blacksmith and, of course, the cannon!
Tate loves music. So you can imagine how he was drawn to the guys that were "pickin' and a grinnin.'" He had a bird's eye view from his perch on Chuck's shoulder.

The boys paused for a moment at the mouth of the covered bridge. This was mainly so I could take a picture. We explained to him the covered bridge was like a tunnel. He thinks tunnels are cool, so I think Tate enjoyed studying it.

He made friends the rooster and the scarecrow, who he promptly introduced Chuck and I to.
It went something like this:
Hi! Me Tate! This is mommy, daddy.

He happened upon this unmanned miniature booth that offered dry goods, such as canned jams. Tate, being the good natured little guy that he is, he thought he'd lend a helping hand.

We visited the church...

Then it was time to study the tractors!

Somewhere in the middle of all that Tate had a little melt down. Thankfully it was short-lived. All in all it was a good day and a fun family outing!

2009-10-05T23:57:00.001-05:00

2009-10-05T23:38:00.002-05:00

Playhouse Disney

2009-09-30T01:51:00.002-05:00

ASU vs. Troy

2009-09-30T01:08:00.002-05:00

The Fair

2009-09-29T23:20:00.009-05:00

Week 124: Can't leave 'em alone for a minute!

2009-09-13T22:14:00.003-05:00

I'll keep this post brief. No flowery words or long rambling explanations are needed for this one. The title of this post says it all; I can't leave Tate alone for even a minute! (Let me just say the mess on his face is the remnants of a spaghetti supper.)

Week 123: Pop quiz

2009-09-06T20:25:00.004-05:00

Pop quiz
On Wed., Sept. 2nd, which of the following did Tate do:

A. Fall and scrap both knees on the concrete at daycare.
B. Push a little person (a.k.a. midget) while running from me in Wal-Mart
C. Climb the chest-of-drawers in his room causing it to topple over on top of him
D. All of the above

If you answered D you would be correct.
On that particular day Chuck picked Tate up from daycare. As Chuck got there he was greeted with an "ouchy report." The report explained what happened and required a signature from a parent.
After daycare and church that day, we piled into Wal-Mart to pick up a couple of essentials. As we were making our way to the check lanes Tate decided it was time to make his break. He started running. He made it to the front door before I caught him. I grabbed him and stopped him from exiting the store. He spun around and with a little fancy foot work flew past me and into the McDonald's inside the store. He made a little jog and found an alternate exit. But there was someone in his way. A little person was walking from the counter to his table. Tate stiff-armed this man, who in turn spun around on his heels looking for the culprit. He spotted Tate running, I immediately began apoligizing profusely, still running of course. He smiled, all was forgiven.
Eventually I caught him and gave him a good spanking.
Fastforward about an hour. We're home. Chuck has decided to good on to bed, his back is hurting and he's not been sleeping well lately.
Okay, great. Chuck toddles on off to bed leavng Tate and I sitting on the couch watching TV. In just a minute Tate looks at me and says something (I'm not sure what) then hoops off the couch and moseys off to his room. Within 30 seconds I hear this horrid commotion followed by Tate screaming. I fly off of the couch and into his room. There I find the chester drawers in his room has toppled over on top of Tate.
I pick up the chester drawers. It won't stand up on its own (something has fallen off behind it) so I prop it up on my hip and scoop Tate up. Tate, by the way, is doing this screaming cry. I am completely freaked up. About this time Chuck appears. I have him stand the chester drawers up for me as I look Tate over. Apparently he realizes he's okay as he remembers what he climbed the chester drawers for. In his hand is a Little Einstein DVD.
"I watch rocket?" he asks through tear-filled eyes.
You can watch whatever you want I tell him, thankful he's okay.
The rest of the evening was uneventful, thank God!
Sorry guys, no pictures for this post.

Week 122: potty Training Woes

2009-09-06T18:06:00.005-05:00

Tate experienced another first this week and so did I. Let me set the scene for you. It's the weekend, the first weekend that we've all been home together in quite awhile. We're working REALLY hard at potty training, and Tate is doing so good. We're wearing underwear around the house and averaging about one accident a day. I am so totally stoked, because I am so completely sick of changing diapers (or pull-ups to be exact).
It's Sunday night and we're doing great. Tate's wearing under, watching Scooby and hanging with Nana and Pawpaw (who stopped in for a little while on their way to Blytheville). Next thing I know there's a puddle on and around my shoe.
I never thought I'd say this, but I had pee, yes you read right - urine, on my flipflop! Tate peed on my flip flop!
I've had a strange variety of things in my shoes since I became a mother: Tate's feet, toys, crayons, cheerios, etc. But now I can officially add pee to that list. Yuck! The worst part was those were my favorite flipflops.
To the best of my knowledge this is the first time Tate has "watered" any shoes, flipflops included.
Oh well, that's just one more embarassing story I can tell the first girl he brings home.

Week 121:Healthy appetite

2009-08-30T21:34:00.004-05:00

After a long run of illness it was refreshing for Tate to get back to his rowdy old self again. With my little guy running ninety to nothing Chuck and I decided it would be good to let him run off some of his energy at the indoor playground at the mall. As usual, Tate had a blast climbing up the slide, jumping off of the various animals and running around like a wild man.
After a good play session we headed to Shorty Small's for a quick bite of super. Chuck and I ordered burgers and picked chicken strips for the little guy. Tate has never really been much on hamburgers. So we've order, then we wait, and wait and in a few minutes the little buzzer thingy starts flashing and vibrating signaling Chuck to retrieve our meal.
He comes back and sets everything down and settles in. Meanwhile, Tate looks at his basket of fries and chicken strips and then looks to his right at my basket of fries and cheeseburger. What happened next both shocked and tickled me. The little punk helped himself to my burger, picking up this monstrosity of meat that is nearly as big as his head and takes a bite.
Now Tate's never been much on burgers so for him to snub his beloved chicken strips and tackle my burger was quite a feat in itself. But what really caught me off guard was how he just dive bombed it after spending the past several days picking at his food. I suppose he was finally hungry.

Week 120: Tate's sick

2009-08-20T22:32:00.003-05:00

I don't have any cute pictures or sweet stories for this post. This week Tate had his first case of strep throat. Over the weekend he ran a pretty high fever and he was terribly irritable at times. Sunday afternoon Chuck and I decided this warranted a trip to the doctor.
At the clinic it didn't take long for the doctor to discover a red, nasty throat complete with lots of "pus pockets." He even had one in his mouth, yuck!
My little man got some antibiotics and was sent home. After two days at home (and way too many episodes of Scooby Doo), we were all ready for Tate to go back to daycare.
He finished out the week at school before he developed what seemed like a never-ending case of diarrhea, which earned him another day and a half out of school, and caused a rather nasty diaper rash. Thank you so much antibiotics!!!!
Ten days later he's back in good health and ornery as ever.

Week 120: A new addition to the family

2009-08-19T15:49:00.003-05:00

I'm proud to announce a new member of the Hardin family. The news of this new addition came about two weeks ago and Tate couldn't be more excited. Me, I'm happy too, but Chuck, well, he's kind of "whatever's clever" about it, but he seems to be warming up to the idea.
Ok already, I'll spill the beans... Tate has a puppy. Ok, well, technically it's not his puppy, but don't tell him that.
Friday before last Tate and I hitched a ride to the lake with Chuck's mom. As we got into Mountain Home we were discussing what we were going to do until the guys joined us later in the evening. There was definitely going to be some dinner and maybe some shopping.
In true woman fashion we changed our minds a couple times before we agreed on a plan. Somehow we ended up in the Wal-Mart parking lot when we spotted this lady sitting under a tree selling puppies. Low and behold the lady had 8-week-old Yorkie pups...exactly what Cora Sue has been wanting for months and months. So we stopped and looked at the puppies. Immediately Tate found a puppy, dubbing it: "my puppy."
Oh, of course, we eewed and awed and it pulled at our heart strings. Eventually I called Tony and told him we had a problem. I explained that Tate had found this sweet little dog. I told him Tate had said "my puppy" and everything. Plus we just didn't know how we were going to get away from there without Tate having a major melt down. To my astonishment (and Cora Sue's) he said go ahead, get it. So we did.
Tate LOVES this little dog! Every time we leave Tony and Cora Sue's house these days he talks about the puppy for several minutes.
"My puppy...puppy dog...Sissy," (he's close, the dog's name is Izzy).
The dog is cute and so sweet. She weighs a pound or two and won't get much bigger than five pounds... the perfect lap dog for Tate's Nana and a perfect playmate for Tate. They run and chase each other and then fall over from exhaustion and take a nap together. Those two are like peas and carrots!!!!

Week 119: Tate in the Box

2009-08-08T12:18:00.003-05:00

I had heard that children are almost always more entertained with the box than the toy that came in it.
Tate is no exception - he loves boxes!
The other day I made the trip to Sam's Wholesale Club to purchase a package of pull-ups. I got them home and dispersed them, some in the downstairs bathroom, some more upstairs in the bathroom and the oh so important stash in the car. While I busied myself putting away the diapers Tate discovered the treasure! He found the empty diaper box and began to play with it. Next thing I know he's playing IN it.
He would climb in the box, somehow arranging himself so that all that you could see of him was his smiling face. Then he would pop up.
Of course when he realized I had pulled the camera out he really started hamming it up!
What will this kid think up next?

Week 118: VBS meets Mr. Hankey

2009-07-31T23:38:00.004-05:00

This week was a big week at South Caraway Baptist Church. Our quaint little church held it's annual Vacation Bible School festivities.
It was also a big week at 4415 Southbrook.
I was in charge of the toddler class, which was made up of the children of VBS teachers and volunteers. That being said you can imagine how hectic our week was. All week it was work, VBS, home, sleep, repeat. Our schedule was all out of whack. However, a couple of positives came out of this week. First and foremost Tate and his buddies spent time at church learning about God and Jesus. He learned that God made the birds that fly in the sky, the grass that grows on the ground and the flowers and the trees too. There was coloring and finger painting and snack time and story time. At home after a fun-filled night of VBS Tate and I would make a b-line for the restroom. Tate would settle himself on his potty chair, reach for his favorite book (a new one, I forget the title, but its a Veggie Tales book). While he studied Bob the Tomato and Larry the Cucumber he went poo poo in the potty.
I was so happy that he was actually going in the potty instead of his diaper that I didn't mind cleaning the poo from his potty chair. Hooray for Tate! After months of patiently telling him "poo poo goes in the potty. We don't poo poo in our diaper, we poo poo in the potty." It's finally starting to sink in! Praise God!!!
You know what they say, "the Lord moves in mysterious ways."

Week 117: Tate's Knockers

2009-07-31T23:09:00.004-05:00

No pictures this week, just a funny story about something Tate said.
While digging through his toy box my little man uncovered some long-lost toys he hadn't seen in, oh, say, a month or two. Among the treasure Tate rediscovered a pair of toy binoculars. Immediately he became inseparable from this particular toy. He carried them around the house with him, even taking them on trips to the little boys' room. He wore them around his neck while playing and every now and then he'd stop, lift the field glasses to his face and look through them. Sometimes he'd look at me while I was sitting just a few feet from him, other times peering at something across the room. Nonetheless, at some point in the evening Tate came to rest on the couch beside me.
The conversation went something like this:
Me: Hey Tate.
Tate: Hi, mama!
Me: Can you say binoculars? Be-knock-u-lars?
Tate: (something incomprehensible)
Me: Binoculars. Be-knock-u-lars.
Tate: Knockers?
Me: No baby, binoculars. Be-knock-u-lars.
Tate: Knockers!
Of course I couldn't hold back a smirk. Meanwhile Chuck goes into a full-fledged full-body-shaking-giggle fit.
That was all the encouragement Tate needed.
"Knockers, knockers!" he kept repeating.
A little bit later it was time for one last visit to the potty chair before bedtime. As Chuck and I were tag teaming Tate into his pajamas I slipped the binoculars from around his neck. This was a move those in the military would call a tactical error. Tate erupted into one of those hold-your-breath-for-10-seconds-before-you-start-to-cry fits. After the initial cry he's reaching for me with this mom-how-could-you face demanding: "I want knockers!"
It felt like one of those "Al Bundy would be proud" moments.

Week 116: Kickin' the tires?

2009-07-23T22:07:00.003-05:00

So by now Tate is a professional "weekend warrior." (A term us gung-ho weekend boating enthusiasts so affectionately call ourselves.) I guess since Tate has become so comfortable jumping in the water, swimming with friends/family and even knee boarding, he decided to checkout the boat he's been riding in all this time. He checked out how to open the windshield and adjust the rear view mirror. He also checked out all the storage on our boat. He's such a hands-on kid!

Week 115: Another weekend at the lake

2009-07-13T21:53:00.004-05:00

We spent the weekend at the lake again. I know, surprise, surprise! We are so predictable.
Since we've seen cute pictures of Tate jumping in the water, playing in the water and pretending to drive the boat, I thought I'd mix it up a little... because Tate is so finicky about getting his hair cut we have to wait for him to take a nap before we can get it trimmed. So, while we were out and about in Mountain Home Saturday, you guessed, Tate crashed. We made a B-line for the hair-cutting-place, in this insists, the salon just inside Wal-Mart. Tate slept through most of the hair cut. After the hair cut, and a bite to eat at McDonald's (also inside Wal-Mart), it was time to play in the water.
I don't think Tate knows, but I snapped a couple of potentially embarrassing shots of my little man getting his "swim diaper" put on. Later in the afternoon, following some serious wake boarding, Tate helped Chuck wind up the tow rope.
And there you have it... another boring weekend at the lake.

Adventures of Tate: Tate goes kneeboarding

2009-07-09T21:51:00.005-05:00

My little dare devil has really out done himself this time. Over the Fourth of July holiday Tate and Chuck were playing on the kneeboard. Chuck put Tate on the board, gave him the handle and pulled him around while we were anchored in a cove. Tate was having so much fun and displaying some natural ability. Chuck suggested I pull them behind the boat, "just go slow," he said. What the heck, I thought. I don't want Tate to grow up being afraid of everything. So I did. With the rope attached tightly to a tow pilon Tate climbed on Chuck's back, the slack disappeared from the rope and away we went.
My dynamic duo took quite a ride, easing in and out of the wake and waving at other boaters as they passed by. The boys even took a spill. Chuck described Tate's reaction. He said "EH!" and made an awful face. Then he hollered "BACK!" and climbed back on Chuck's back... ready to go again.
What will those two think up next?!?!

2009-07-05T11:31:00.002-05:00

The Fourth of July has been lots of fun for Tate. He's enjoying hanging out with relatives, eating, playing, swimming and the occasional nap. I'll let the pictures do the talking.

Week 114: Play date???

2009-06-26T15:09:00.004-05:00

Last week Tate had a play date with the daughter of a friend of mine. We went to the playground at the mall because it was so terribly hot out that day. Abby is 10 months old, while Tate is 2+. Therefore you can imagine there wasn't a lot of interaction between the two. LeAnn and I didn't mind though. It was an opportunity to get together and chat while our kids had a fun outing AND their fathers got a little quiet time. (A triple win situation...tee hee).
All that being said, while Tate was playing he made a new friend. Haley is 3 and just as daring and adventurous as my little guy. During the course of playing LeAnn and I were talking with Haley's mom, who told us on Tuesday's kids eat free at Shorty Small's.
"I'll keep that in mind," I thought. I knew we were going to grab a bite to eat out that night because our air conditioner was out. My goal was to soak up as much air conditioning as we could before heading home and baracading us in the upstairs bedroom (we have a window unit in that room because it is just too hot upstairs).
Tate's play date winded down and LeAnn and I said our goodbyes. Tate and I perused the toy store nearby before heading to Shorty Small's to meet Chuck for supper.
Low and behold before we finished our meal we ran into Haley and her mom, also eating at Shorty Small's.
As we were getting ready to leave we stopped at their table and talked for a few minutes. Before I knew it Tate had climbed into their booth and began helping himself to the french fries and ketchup that was part of Haley's meal.
Embarassed and slightly aggravated at Tate, who had barely touched HIS food, I ordered Tate to stop. Haley's mother said, "no, don't worry about it. She's not eating them."
As Tate tanked up on ketchup (and a few french fries) Haley dug in to her macaroni and cheese. In a few minutes they began playing with an empty paper towel roll and a drink lid. Chuck found another paper towel roll (that was nearly empty) and the two proceeded to play. The pair had a great time!!!
Isn't it funny how random life is?

Week 113: ER

2009-06-26T11:45:00.003-05:00

Well it finally happened. After more than 2 years Tate made his first trip to the emergency room.
Last week on Thursday when I picked Tate up from daycare one of the nursery workers told me she noticed Tate had a blister on his toe and therefore was letting him go barefoot.
"Ok," I thought, "I go with that. I'll just keep an eye on it." And that's just what I did. I proceeded on to the gym. After my workout I looked at it. It seems alright, maybe a fraction bigger. I dismissed it though, thinking I was over analyzing this little blister (or was it a bug bite?).
We continued on, making a stop at Sam's to buy a few essentials, you know OJ, cat food, etc. By then it was time for dinner. So, Chuck, Tate and I headed to El Chico (our Thursday night ritual). After dinner I looked at it and had the same thoughts: "is it a tad bit bigger? No, you're being a worry wort. No one likes a hypocondric mom." So we continued on with our evening. Finally at home it was time for some serious playing before time for bed.
At bedtime we were going through our usual routine. Potty, night time diaper and PJs. It was then that we looked at the toe again. This time there was a marked change. His toe was dramatically swollen and had turned red. Chuck and I agreed almost instantly that we should seek immediate medical attention.
We grabbed a juice cup, Scooped Tate up and rushed out the door destination NEA Baptist ER.
Tate's condition didn't slow him down. He wanted to run around and play. However, Chuck and I were not letting him down. After all he was still barefooted. Finally we were taken to an ER exam room. There, Tate promptly began shredding the paper over the exam chair as he climbed it. Later he discovered a small television on an arm that swiveled, raised and lowered (much like the light used at the dentist office). Eventually the doctor came in, looked at the big, nasty toe, which had ruptured and drained in the time we were waiting to see the doctor.
The doctor said it looked like a big bite that Tate likely scratched and eventually became infected. We were given a prescription for a broadspectrum anitbiotic and instructed to follow up with Tate's doctor in 2-3 days.
Right around midnight we were finally released. Once in the car, Tate almost immediately crashed.
My thoughts on this ordeal are this.
1. We are so lucky that it took over 2 years for this first trip to the ER to happen.
2. Tate's demeanor was such that it kept me from worrying excessively. It's so hard to get upset when you see this sweet little blue-eyed boy flash his electric smile as he climbs up the chair in the exam room (frustrated, yes; scared, no).
At the follow-up doctor's appt Tate was given a clean bill of health. And, I am happy to report that Tate is running around like crazy, having a blast and making friends where ever he goes... as usual.

Week 112: Daddy's little helper

2009-06-23T22:08:00.003-05:00

Not long ago, with a little help from Tate, we reclaimed a room in our house. In order for that to make sense I have to give you a little history of the Hardin house. When I was pregnant we decided to use the guest room/Amanda's hobby room as the nursery. In cleaning my stuff out in order to paint, etc, to make the room Tate's the majority of my stuff went to two places: the attic and the office. In the two place years since then we've made attempts to clean the office, but none ever lasted very long. So finally I decided enough was enough. I grounded us, no going to the lake until this is done. We shipped Tate off for a fun-filled weekend with grandparents and cousins and Chuck and I dug in. We moved EVERYTHING out of the office and into the living room. More than once Chuck and I said, "I can't believe all this stuff was in that little room."
We threw a bunch of stuff away, gave some stuff away and designated yet more stuff to be burned or shredded. Finally we got everything organized and in it's place. After church that Sunday we scurried around shopping for the best deal on new filing cabinet. Eventually we landing at Office Max where we scored a nice cherry wood finished "double-wide" file cabinet. Before Chuck got it assembled it was time to go get time Tate. (We were meeting Chuck's mom and dad in Ash Flat.) Once we got home Chuck went back to putting together the file cabinet. It didn't take Tate long to sniff out the project. Before I knew it he was elbow deep in brackets and screws and various tools. Chuck welcomed the help. Those two are so cute when they work on stuff together.
I must say Tate is quite the helper!

Week 111: Anniversary supper

2009-06-23T21:28:00.003-05:00

Chuck and I recently celebrated 8 years of marital bliss. For our anniversary Chuck took me to Sho Gun. Ok, obviously not my first choice (anyone who knows me very well knows I DON'T LIKE CHINESE FOOD!!!). But what the heck, I thought, Chuck thought this one up on his own. Plus its not MY anniversary its OUR anniversary and marriage is about compromise and working together for the great good and so on...besides, he was really excited about it and he it just so happens he LOVES Chinese/sushi.
I have to admit the food wasn't awful. I would definitely go back, but it wouldn't be because I suggested it.
Anyhow, we had a nice dinner. The best part was watching Tate watch the chef slice and dice and make flames.
We had a wonderful waiter too. As we were finally eating our meal Tate got antsy, making it nearly impossible for us to eat. So our waiter take him to look at the fish in the pool near the front door. So we were actually able to eat a few bites just the two of us.
Happy anniversary to us!

2009-06-12T14:00:00.002-05:00

Over the weekend Tate had his first successful encounter with a backyard pool. While Chuck and Tony were getting scuba certified, Cora Sue and I were left to our own devices. We thought about going out on the boat, but instead we came up with getting a kiddie pool and letting Tate go nuts. Guess what? He did. He had a BIG time sliding, playing and slinging that silly fish toy around. As an added bonus my little guy slept really well that night!!!!

Week 109: A day at the lake

2009-06-05T19:34:00.005-05:00

The other day we were getting ready to go out on the boat. We were loading up... towels, the cooler and etc. when Tate discovered the remnants of a doggie door (left behind from the previous owner of Tony and Cora's house). At this particular stage in Tate's life he is fascinated with tunnels. It amazes me all the "tunnels" this child can find on any given day. On this particular day he was taken with doggie door tunnel. He had the best time climbing through it. Silly, silly boy!

Eventually we climbed in the Tahoe and took off for a day of fun in the sun. On the way Tate made another discovery... Nana's hat. He had a big time putting it on and taking it off. He even put his sunglasses on at on point on the way to the boat dock. Only I wasn't quick enough to catch a picture of him with them on. Oh well!

We had a big time playing and splashing. Tate even went for a ride on the tube. To be such an energetic action-packed dare devil... only my child would fall asleep riding the tube!

Week 107-108

2009-06-05T18:55:00.002-05:00

This is an extension of last week's post, after all it was a long weekend.
The day we left Oklahoma we stopped by Gigi's place one more time. We posed for one more 4-generation picture and Tate was allowed to play with Gigi's power chair. FUN!!!!!

Week 107: Visitin' with gigi

2009-05-24T23:44:00.002-05:00

Over the Memorial Day weekend Chuck, Tate and I hitched a ride with Mom and Mike to Oklahoma. In the Sooner State we attended the high school graduation of one of my cousins and visited with aunts, uncles and cousins, not to mention my grandmother. Tate got to meet my cousin Randy for the first time and was reacquainted with the many other relatives who live in OK.
We got to Altus late Thursday afternoon and stayed through Sunday morning. While we were there, we attended Haley's graduation (she finished third in her class!!!). We stopped by the fire station, played with the trucks and visited with Uncle Tommy. Then there was feeding the geese who frequent the city's reservoir. We visited with Tate's great-grandma at her assisted living residence. Of course there was lots of eating and lots of playing!

Week 106: Washing the boat

2009-05-24T21:33:00.004-05:00

Summer is nearly here. So, in preparation for the impending lake season Chuck and I spent last weekend scrubbing our boat. On day two of the boat-cleaning marathon Tate decided he wanted to join in on the fun. He helped scrub "the wedge" and the boat trailer. I must say Tate did a great job. The trailer has never looked better.

Week 105: Back to the great outdoors

2009-05-14T23:25:00.007-05:00

Before Tate came along Chuck and I spent countless hours in the yard, mowing, building/planting new flower beds and the never-ending chore or weeding. Over the past two years we've let the landscaping slide to the back burner while we focused on our little man. Now he's getting big enough to play outside while we work in the yard. So, Wednesday, after the rain cleared away and we all got home from work/day care, Chuck, Tate and I spent some time outside.
While Chuck was mowing, Tate and I hung out in the backyard. I pulled weeds that have grown up through the pea gravel near our garden pond while Tate discovered the shear entertainment of playing with a stick found in the grass. As the wonder of the stick wore off he moved on to throwing pea gravel in the water (poor gold fish!).
As I watched Tate play I was moved to grab my camera and take some pictures of Tate in front of the pond. The only problem was he WAS NOT a willing participant. Instead of doing as I directed Tate cried and then climbed into my lap making it nearly impossible to take his picture.
I managed to snap off a few shots.
Next thing I know Chuck popped into the backyard for a break before starting on the backyard.
Of course my two boys had to take a minute to play in the pea gravel together.
Then, unprompted, Tate decided he would help with the mowing.
Kids do the darnedest things!

Too cute not to share!!!

2009-05-04T23:07:00.005-05:00

Who knew boys play dress-up?
Definitely not me! I thought that was a game reserved for little girls. Guess I was wrong.
The other day after church we were hanging around the house. Tate had gone potty and was roaming around the house sans pants. I was putting a load of laundry in to wash when Tate toddled up and said "coat."
What he meant was, "Mom can you get my coat off the coat rack for me. I want to put it on."
So I thought, "okay he wants to wear his coat. It's a little warm, but whatever, I'll indulge him." The coat he wanted was a leather coat complete with fringe. (Did I mention it belonged to Chuck's dad. It was found in a closet or the attic at Chuck's grandpa's house as the family was cleaning out Pawpaw Hardin's house.)
Tate was really strutting around. So, being the hands-on mom that I am I decided to play along. I looked at him and decided he needed a few accessories.
Soooo, we marched into my little guy's room and grabbed his rain boats (courtesy of Chuck's mom) and a straw hat (another gem recovered from Pawpaw's house... not sure who that once belonged to... did I mentioned Chuck's grandmother never threw anything away?)
The fun was short-lived though. The coat was a little fragile... imagine that! I kept finding pieces of fringe on the floor and made the execute decision to take the coat off of Tate before it fell apart completely.
Eat your heart out Dirty Harry!!!!

Week 104: Not quite there yet

2009-05-04T22:43:00.005-05:00

In recent weeks I've encouraged Tate to branch out a little. One thing I've been trying to get Tate excited about is dressing and undressing himself. With queues and a little help he does great. It's those times when we let him "drive" that he runs into a snag here and there.
I took a series of pictures of one of these little Tate dresses himself moments. So bare with me for a minute as you scroll down.
Let me set the scene for you: It was bedtime. Tate had been changed into his pajama bottoms and was working on the top. I'll preface this by adding Chuck was right there to assist Tate as needed.

Let's just say the dressing himself effort is still a work in progress!

Adventures of Tate: Sleepover at Nana and Pawpaw's

2009-04-24T13:17:00.003-05:00

This week Chuck and I let Tate skip school for a couple of days to spend some time with Chuck's parents. Chuck knew he was going to be working late, I was nursing a hamstring injury and we both thought Tony and Cora Sue needed a fun and happy distraction from the recent duties associated the death of Chuck's grandfather. That being said, the three of them had an absolute blast together!

I missed my little man terribly, but looked forward to our telephone conversations (at least two or three times a day). They went something like this:

Tate: Ello?
Me: Hi Tate!
Tate: Hi my mama!
Me: Hi Tate. Are you having fun with Nana and Pawpaw?
Tate: Hi mama!
Me: Hi Tate. What did you do today?
Tate: Hi my mama!

Well you get the picture.

From the reports I received I understand there was lots and lots of time spent at the playground, some hanging out at the house and maybe even some bird watching???? Regardless, a good time was had by all. I know I barely let go of him when he came home on Wednesday.

Following are some pictures from Tate's adventure this week.

Adventures of Tate: The Egg Hunt of '09

2009-04-12T14:11:00.003-05:00

Our Church had a big Easter Egg Hunt for all the kids on Saturday. That sounded like lots of fun so, of course, Tate had to be in the middle of it. Though we did not practice before hand Tate picked up on the concept very quickly. Before I knew it his basket was brimming full with plastic Easter eggs filled with all kinds of fun surprises. As the hunt wound down Tate caught up with some of his buddies. Together they figured out that there was candy in the eggs they had just collected. Toddlers are so much fun!!!!

Adventures of Tate: Easter Sunday

2009-04-12T13:49:00.004-05:00

Tate had a low-key, but fun Easter Sunday. He rose slightly earlier than I would have preferred, but when does life ever go exactly as planned? Next there were showers and the brushing of hair and teeth and off we went to church. All the little kiddos at church, especially the little girls, looked so cute in their Easter outfits complete with the perfect shoes and hair bows.
After church we had a nice quiet family lunch at Colton's. Once at home Tate finally discovered the basket the Easter Bunny had left him. It was filled with bananas, raisins, fruit snacks and a carrot-shaped Reese's Pieces do-hicky. There was also a set of golf clubs. Who knew the Easter Bunny was into golf? Chuck and Tate had a blast playing with them! The guys managed to take a minute to pose for a family photo, then climbed on the couch for a leisurely Sunday afternoon movie and maybe, just maybe a little cat nap.

Tate's birthday party

2009-03-23T12:43:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Tate

2009-03-12T23:07:00.003-05:00

Tate turned two today. I absolutely cannot believe he is two! As I was putting him to bed tonight I thought back to the day he was born and the 700 and some odd days since then. I told him happy birthday one last time and added "it's been the best two years of my life." It really has. Of course, not everyday has been a bowl of cherries, but I wouldn't trade any of them for the world!
Wednesday I took Tate to the mall to pick out a nice new outfit for him to wear on his birthday. At the store I picked up a shirt and Tate immediately grabbed it, said "Tate's" and hugged it. "Okay," I thought, "on to the pants."
The pants weren't quite as easy, but in the end we agreed on a pair of jeans.
This morning after a quick shower with Dad, Tate was looking sharp in his new digs. Off to school for another day of learning. At 2 Chuck and I popped in to the daycare with cupcakes for snack time. I think the kids enjoyed the sugar supplied by icing-covered cupcakes. After the special snack Tate decided he was going with us so we pulled him out of school a little early.
In observance of his birthday, we went to Barnes and Noble to let Tate pick out a book. That back fired (on me) Tate discovered the train in the back corner of the store AND ended up with three Little Einstein books. (I can't help it, those blue eyes get me every time!)
Next we headed to Chick-fil-a for some chicken nuggets and quality time in/on the indoor playground with dad. Then it was home and time for milk and some quality couch time with mom. I am amazed at what I big fan Tate is of Grey's Anatomy (LOL)!
What a great kid!

Week 103: Thinking, driving and clowning

2009-03-12T22:31:00.005-05:00

I haven't decided yet if Tate is going to be a track star, a great philosopher or a race car driver.
Anyone who's been around Tate for very long knows this child loves to run! Every now and then Tate takes a few minutes to contemplate the meaning of life. That never lasts for very long and off he goes again. The little guy also enjoys playing with anything that has a steering wheel... a scoot along toy, a coin-operated "ride" outside the grocery store, our boat and other vehicles... ANYTHING with a steering wheel. And what a ham he is! The other day we were at Chuck's parents' house. We were leaving the house, loading Tate in the car when he slipped out of someone's hands. He made a b-line for the driver's seat, and, of course, the steering wheel. He was really driving. I managed to snap a couple of pictures before he spotted me. Once he saw me it was all over with, he was mugging for the camera! Eventually we were able to wrestle him into the back seat and strap him into his car seat. Safely fastened in the car seat he found something else to entertain himself -- sunglasses. There is never a dull moment with Tate!

Bonus post: Snow days

2009-03-05T21:49:00.003-06:00

Last weekend Northeast Arkansas was covered with snow. I don't know about everyone else, but it kind of took me by surprise. I had heard the weather forecast, but doubted we'd get much in the way of snow accumulation. Boy was I wrong! With a couple of inches on the ground, Chuck, Tate and I ventured outside to let Tate experience snow. His initial reaction was a combination of "why did mom and dad bundle me up so that I can barely walk" and "what's is going on out here!"
He tromped around for a little while, checking on his swing in the front yard. My little man was very concerned that this white stuff was collecting in his swing. He started to clean it out, but quickly lost interest. Next he decided his mittens and toboggan were not cool and he promptly took them off. It didn't take long after that for Tate to decide he'd had enough of the frigid temperatures that accompanied the snow.

Week 102: Tate's growing into such a big boy

2009-03-05T21:22:00.003-06:00

Tate is getting soooo big. There are so many things he's learning and starting to do. It seems like everyday he says a new word or shows us something he learned at daycare. As part of the "growing up" process we've been working on potty training. Just last weekend Tate tried on a pair of big boy underwear. He did pretty good, but the little guy still needs a little practice before we make that transition. For now we'll stick with the pull-ups. A few days later Tate showed us again how quickly he's growing up. He climbed on a transitional toy (it's a rocking rider that has a handle that allows you to push it). Up until this point Tate would sit on it and rock. On this particular day he decided he was going to "work on it." He was trying to switch the rocker part over to the handle. Chuck intervened. The next thing I know Tate has hopped on the trike and is actually pedaling!!! I was shocked and elated all at the same time. Of course, our dogs are horrified at the prospect of having to dodge Tate on wheels. It's survival of the fittest around our house.

Week 102: Tate's a Rockstar!!!

2009-03-02T01:52:00.003-06:00

These aren't the best pictures ever, but once you see what they're of, you'll probably understand why I grabbed my phone and started snapping.
A week or so ago, Chuck, Tate and I meandered over to Blytheville to see Chuck's grandparents. While we were visiting Tate found Mawmaw's cane. He's such a creative kid. We don't have a cane at the house, therefore Tate doesn't know the proper use for such an object. As you can imagine it didn't take him long to come up with something to do with it. The little squirt thought it would work as a microphone. The little guy reminded me of one of those 80s hair band guys like Bon Jovi or someone. Crazy kid! I guess I know what to get him for his birthday now(LOL).

Week 101

2009-02-26T20:24:00.003-06:00

Let me begin by apologizing for being so tardy in getting this post out. For those of you who don't live in or near Jonesboro, let me give you an update. There was a major ice in the area during the last part of January. The ice storm caused massive power outages that left thousands without power in Northeast Arkansas, including the power customers or "members" that belong to the electric cooperative Chuck works for. He worked CRAZY long hours, seven days a week, for about 27 days. The long hours wore on all of us. Tate and I were missing Chuck, and he was missing us. One night Chuck called me and asked if we would come up to the office for a little while. I jumped at the opportunity!
After the guys finished eating it was time to get back to work. I must say Tate is becoming quite the little helper. Maybe, just maybe, Tate will follow in his father's footsteps and work for the coop.

Week 100: Backyard Adventure

2009-02-15T16:57:00.006-06:00

Following a week (or two) of terrible weather the mercury rose (edging toward 70). So, Tate and I ventured outdoors. My goal was to let Tate run wild for a little bit while I cleaned downed limbs in the backyard. I figured the fresh air and a breeze in our hair would do us both some good. Boy did it!
Tate had soooo much fun running wild and free!!!! It didn't take him long to discover a stick. He promptly toddled over the our garden pond and began splashing water. Then he graduated up to the pool skimmer Chuck uses to clean leaves out of the pond. After just a little work he managed to "catch" some loose debris from the bottom of the pond.
Next he rediscovered his canine siblings. My little guy actually tried to ride Cheyenne. What a patient pooch! She just put up with him until eventually he gave up. As the afternoon wore on Tate found other things that caught his interest. There was the plank of wood Chuck brought home from work. (I'm still not sure the purpose behind this huge circular piece of wood, but it's in the backyard and has been for some time. I don't think it's going away anytime soon.) There was a concrete thingy in the yard that Tate took a rest on. He also discovered leaves and a plastic flower pot (probably from my stash I keep under the carport) that had blown into the back yard.
The afternoon outing was rejuvenating. Watching Tate meander and run and discover so many things that an adult takes for granted. It was one of those moments I think I'll remember forever. You could call it a Chicken Soup for the Soul moment.

Week 99: Inside the Box

2009-02-05T22:10:00.003-06:00

While we were stuck at home last week we found new things to keep us entertained. Tate was thinking outside the box when he decided to pull all the toys out of one the storage cubes in his room and climb in it. In and out and in and out. It was great fun!

Adventures of Tate: Week 98

2009-01-31T15:14:00.004-06:00

It seems my little man has become quite the bookworm! He enjoys reading and apparently his skill for reading developed so quickly that he's into speed reading. I caught him the other day. He had pulled every book that he owns out off the shelves in his room and told me he had read them all. Can you believe? Look out Little Einsteins!

Week 97: Polar Bear Plunge

2009-01-22T22:22:00.002-06:00

No, I did not let Tate jump into ultra cold water in a dirty fishing lake, I let Chuck.
I'm not sure exactly how it came about, but Chuck, as part of the Craighead Electric polar plunge team, jumped into Lake Walcott last Saturday. Can you believe it? I can't. But, then again, I'm the one in the family who is perpetually cold. Nonetheless Tate and I were on hand to show our support for our main man.
Before the actually "jump" Tate helped to kept Chuck warm and gave him a pep talk. I must say Tate was amazed that people, including his otherwise intelligent father, were actually getting in the water on such a cold day.
As our outing was coming to a close, Tate made a new friend, one of the four-legged variety.
In the end I was quite proud of Chuck and his co-workers. Not only did they jump into freezing cold water on a cold day, they managed to raise $4,700 for the Special Olympics.

Week 96: Swimming with Daddy

2009-01-15T22:10:00.004-06:00

It's a new year, and with a new year come resolutions. Chuck and I have vowed to shed some pounds and get into better shape! In order to do that our family joined a gym. The gym has an indoor pool, which we've been taking advantage of. Chuck and Tate have been swimming several evenings in a row. It seemed like so much fun that I decided to join in the fun. Sunday I tagged along to the pool, camera in tow, to capture this father-son bonding. I snapped a few quick shots before Tate yelled for me to join them. I did and we had a blast. Tate rode on our backs while we swam from one end of the pool to the other. We also worked with Tate on going under water. We had a good time, got some exercise and Tate's beginning to learn to swim. That's what I call a win, win situation!

Week 95: Tate the Plumber

2009-01-09T13:41:00.007-06:00

Over the New Year's holiday weekend Chuck installed a couple of new faucets around the house. Of course Tate was right in the middle of it, "borrowing" Chuck's tools, climbing under the sink and so on and so forth. He's such a good helper!

Weeks 93 and 94: A week of Christmas

2008-12-29T21:41:00.008-06:00

Tate had many Christmas celebrations this holiday season. There was Christmas with Grandma Cromer and Grandpa Mike, Papa and Mimi Harris, Nana and Pawpaw Hardin, friends, extended family and, of course, Christmas with Chuck and I. Though Tate took in more than his fair share and toys and other holiday treats, he was also exposed to the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We attended several church services during our "week of Christmas," a tradition, I plan to continue as Tate grows and begins to understand the Christmas story. SO without further ado, I have assembled a slideshow for your viewing pleasure. I hope you enjoy. Happy holidays!!!!

Week 92: Snowed In

2008-12-19T22:02:00.004-06:00

This week Tate learned to appreciate the rarely occurring phenomenon to Arkansas I like to call the "snow day." Stuck in the house for two days Tate found lots of things to do to keep himself entertained. After he pulled out every toy he's ever owned and brought them from his bedroom to the living room there was the cartoon network marathon, a nap here and there... eventually he discovered "dress up." Tate found a pair of gloves, a hat and a pair of boots of Chuck's and decided to try them on for size. I managed to catch him in the midst of a session of "dress up."
All in all we had a great time, but both of us were ready to get back to the normal routine.

Week 91: Christmas Parade + Fire Bug

2008-12-09T18:23:00.004-06:00

Last Thursday Tate attended his very first Christmas parade. It was super cold, but we bundled up and braved the frigid temperatures in order for Tate to experience the excitement and awe of a parade through the eyes of a child. My little guy was surprisingly still. Apparently all the floats, vehicles with flashing lights, motorcycles and animals kept his attention.
After the parade, we headed home to thaw out. Once at home I asked Chuck if he'd build a fire in the fireplace for me. Just the same as any other night when Chuck built a fire for me, he started by stepping outside to chop up a few logs for kindling. He brought it in the house and proceeded to tear up strips of cardboard. It was about that time that Tate decided he was going to help. Before you know it Tate took over. Chuck scooted out of the way and let Tate fill the fireplace with kindling and cardboard. Eventually Chuck added a few logs and lit the fire. Once the fire was going good, they took a moment to admire their work.

Week 90: Thanksgiving

2008-12-02T21:12:00.003-06:00

Much like his mother Tate's not a big fan of turkey. However, this dislike of turkey didn't get in the way of his holiday feast. (We spent Thanksgiving with my mother in Little Rock then headed up to Mountain Home to Chuck's mom and dad's place. There we visited with family in town from Houston.)
On turkey day there were plenty of other festive dishes for Tate eat/wear. He was quite fond of the dressing, the mashed potatoes, the sweet potato souffle and my personal favorite, the ham. Much like the rest of his family, Tate ate and ate and ate. And just like the rest of us, he indulged in a nap, however he didn't make it to the couch. He played soooo hard all morning. THe little guy was running, as my mother would put it, "90 to nothing." We sat down to our Thanksgiving feast around 1 or 1:30. So once he had his fill, he crashed right there in his highchair at the dining room table!
After his nap, Tate tried his luck with the wishbone. It worked! Since Tate is a little bit too young to make wishes, I made one for him (let's just say it involves potty training).
I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!!!!

Week 89: Auntie Jen's wedding

2008-11-27T19:17:00.004-06:00

Tate made his first trip to Kansas City, MO. Why? His Auntie Jen (on my dad's side of the family) got married. The wedding was great and doubled as a mini family reunion. There are four kids on my dad's side of the family -- Jennifer (and Patrick) are in Kansas City, Rick (Terah and Brayden) are in Arizona, Adam roams (he's wrapping up a campaign in Idaho and I think he's moving to DC) and of course Chuck, Tate and I are in Jonesboro.
All that being said, Tate got a chance to catch up with uncle Adam. Adam, who is not married and has no children, let Tate play with his I-phone. Sucker!!!! I must say the phone still worked after Tate was through playing with it.
The day of the wedding Tate put on his Sunday best and headed for the church. I must say he looked very handsome! He was very busy playing and what not, but took a minute to have his picture made with mom. After the wedding we headed to the reception. There he caught up with cousin Brayden. Those two together are a couple of lady-killers!
It was a great weekend. It was so good to see the family, even if it was such a quick trip. I can't wait for us to all get together again!

Week 88: The Lodge at Lake Degray and Grandpa Harris

2008-11-19T22:01:00.008-06:00

We maintain a busy lifestyle. As I like to say "we don't let the grass grow under us." Last weekend was no exception. Chuck had to go to a Thursday-Friday IT meeting for work. The meeting was held at the Lake DeGray State Park Lodge. I spent A LOT of time on that lake growing up. It will always have a special place in my heart. Even though we frequent Bull Shoals Lake now whenever an opportunity presents itself I go back to the lake of my childhood. That being said, Tate and I decided to tag along. We weren't the only ones. The electric cooperatives are very family oriented. So as Thursday's meeting came to a close barbecue grills at a near by pavilion fired up and some of the guys heading up the meeting grilled chicken, steak, sausage and hamburgers for meeting attendees and their families. It was great fun. The kids played together and had a blast!
Of course while Chuck was in meetings, Tate and I had to entertain ourselves somehow. So, of course, I pulled out the camera and took pictures of him exploring the lodge. Some of these pictures are posed (or at least a pose was attempted), others are naturally occurring shots.
After we left the state park we headed to my dad's house in Hot Springs. Again more fun was had. Tate played and played and played and ate and played some more and then he crashed! All-in-all it was a great weekend.
Stay tuned...this weekend we're heading to Kansas City, MO., for my step-sister's wedding, which will double as a mini family reunion.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Week 87: Something new X2

2008-11-17T18:00:00.004-06:00

About two weeks ago Tate got something new and so did I. I have pictures of both, well, sort of.
For the longest we've been looking for one of those yellow and red Little Tikes cars. Sometime ago Tate attended a birthday party where he got to play in one of these cars. He loved the car so much that we literally had to pull him out of it. We've been looking for one ever since. We looked at Wal-Mart (in several towns), Target and the Toy Castle. Finally Tate's Nana Hardin found one. Being the wonderful grandmother that she is she snatched it up and promptly delivered. Once Chuck got it put together Tate hopped in. He's awfully proud it. The little guy has even been spotted sitting in it watching TV.
As for me, I got a new lense for my camera. I won't go into the long drawn-out and very sad story. Let's just say I dropped my camera one day and smashed the lense. I thought Adventure's of Tate would have be put on hold until I could replace it. However, a very generous person, who wishes to remain anonymous, came to my rescue. I've included the first picture I snapped with the new lense, my subject, of course, was Tate.
With that being said I'm going to take this opportunity to extended my sincere and heartfelt thank you. You know who you are.

2008-11-06T17:24:00.005-06:00

For Halloween this year Tate was Bam Bam. Getting the costume together was a true labor of love. Myself, Chuck, and Chuck's parents all had a hand in Tate's costume. There was even some sewing involved. (Bet y'all didn't know Chuck is handy with a sewing machine. Thanks Baby!!!!)
Anyhow Tate had a blast at the Halloween Party hosted by his teacher, Miss Regina (the best pre-school teacher ever!!!!) Next, Tate stopped by his Chuck's office for a few minutes. Then headed home to rest for a little while before his first true trick-or-treating experience. He and pal Emalyn, dressed as a lady bug, hit the street for some serious trick-or-treating. The pair had a ball, as did all the parents involved.

Week 85: Party Time

2008-10-30T17:54:00.003-05:00

Tate had some cake, a few laughs and snagged a balloon over the weekend. He went to a birthday party for his buddy Emalyn.
I didn't realize how wide Tate can open his mouth until I saw this picture. Now if only he'd open wide for me when it's time to take medicine or when I'm checking for new teeth.

Ever since he got his new bed Tate fears no slide. There's none to big (or too small). He's also learning different techniques for going down the slide. According to Tate all are great fun.

Tate couldn't let Emalyn have all the fun. He helped her test out some of her birthday gifts. He was especially fond of her Little Mermaid cell phone.

Tate had a blast and scored a balloon to boot!

Week 84: Male Bonding

2008-10-23T22:24:00.003-05:00

Male bonding. It's a ritual in which men, well... bond. As I am a woman I'll surely never understand it. I know better than to question it, rather I liken it to woman's primal need to shop.
Over the weekend Tate took the opportunity to indulge in some serious male bonding with his G Pawpaw (that's right Chuck's grandpa who we were all praying for a couple of months back. He's out of the hospital and doing great.). Pawpaw Hardin spent last weekend with us. I think Tate enjoyed Pawpaw as much as Pawpaw enjoyed Tate. They were able to hang out and play together without many distractions. In addition to Pawpaw, Tate had quality "guy time" with his dad. The pair hung out on Tate's bed and watched TV. It was exhausting, Tate fell right over and crashed. I have definitely got my hands full with these two!

Week 83: Mokey See, Monkey Do

2008-10-16T21:19:00.002-05:00

Its seems Tate is quite the sponge these days. I've captured a great example of Tate's recent mimicking behavior via photographs. Let me set the scene for you. Chuck, a very "hands-on" kind of dad, loves to amuse his son. One way he accomplishes such a feat is by juggling. Tate gets a big kick out of watching his dad. So much so that he tries to do it himself. I call it monkey see, monkey do.

Week 82: Tate's New Bed

2008-10-09T22:58:00.006-05:00

Look out Walt Disney! Tate got a new bed and he couldn't be more thrilled. Though he never climbed out of his crib, Chuck and I felt it was time to take that monumental next step and move our little guy into a toddler bed. The toddler bed idea quickly snowballed into a playground where Tate can crash when he simply can't go anymore. By no means am I complaining. I think Chuck and I enjoy playing in Tate's room now almost as much as Tate does. It seems like every day this week we've come up with some sort of new game that revolves around the bed/slide/tent. We've spent a considerable amount of time watching Tate climb up the slide, slide down it, toss miscellaneous toys up or down the slide and hang out on surprisingly comfy loft mattress. It's great fun, but I'm being forced to realize how quickly my little boy is growing up! He is independent, not to mention hard-headed and absolutely fearless! Can you imagine what he's going to be like when he's a teenager?

Not only is Tate the primary player on the bed, he had a hand in assembling and testing it out as well.

Week 81: Tate Goes To Pumpkin Hollow

2008-10-05T22:15:00.009-05:00

Over the weekend Tate and friends made the hour+ trip up (almost into Missouri) to Pumpkin Hollow. The gourd/pumpkin farm has morphed into a tourist attraction which comes to life during the month of October. This place is the epitome of fall. There are pumpkins, gourds and mums everywhere! There's also a petting zoo; pony, hay and train rides; a corn maze; a pile of hay to play in; and a kiddie version of a haunted house. Well, there's other stuff too, but that's all we were interested in.
Chuck, Tate and I, as well as Tony and Cora Sue (Chuck's parents), Chuck's Grandpa Hardin, and Jason, Nikki and Carter (2) Turner.
The boys had a good time feeding the pygmy goats and playing in the huge tubs of corn. We even found a street sign "Tater Tots Lane" that we just had to get a picture of!

Then there was the pony ride...

Next there was a hay ride that lead up to the train ride, corn maze and hay bales....

But the fun didn't end there! Next Tate found a huge pile of pumpkins or should I say a pile of huge pumpkins. Tate actually got stuck for a second while making his way through the pile.

Of course we couldn't leave without attempting to get a nice "posed" family photo.

Week 80: Tate's New School

2008-10-03T16:18:00.005-05:00

Two weeks ago Tate changed day cares. The old day care was fine, but it was significantly further from our home and both my and Chuck's jobs. The new day care is within 5 minutes of my work. It's probably 7 minutes for Chuck. The distance isn't the only plus for us. On Tate's very first day of school he came home with some art work. The next day he had more. He's come home with some sort of art/drawing/coloring everyday which is totally awesome! Each month Tate's class "The Explorers" learn about a color, a number, a letter and a shape. There's also a song. Last month's was "BINGO." This month's is "I'm A Little Teapot." Tate's personality is meshing well with the others at the day care. In fact, he's already made friends with the day care's director Miss Liz. Twice already Chuck's gone to pick Tate up only to find him hanging out in Miss Liz's office (one day I think Chuck said Tate was eating a granola bar). I guess it's true what they say about the apple not falling far from the tree.

Week 79: Tate goes to homecoming

2008-09-25T22:26:00.003-05:00

Last Saturday was homecoming for Arkansas State University. Among the more than 20,000 in attendance were Tate, Chuck and I. Tate had a great time! He enjoyed tailgating with some friends before heading into ASU Stadium. Once inside we found the perfect spot in the "cheap seats." There Tate settled in for his first taste of college football. I think we might have the next Corey Leonard on our hands! He thoroughly enjoyed the game, clapping and even howling for the Red Wolves. By the way, ASU beat Middle Tennessee State University, 31-14. Go State!

Week 78: Tate goes to the fair!

2008-09-18T22:18:00.006-05:00

This week Tate experienced a whole new slew of firsts. Mainly, this was his first time to experience the fair with a girl! Chuck, Tate and I met up with the Streets -- John, Becky and Emmalynn -- for a evening filled with food, rides, games and barnyard animals.
After grabbing a bite to eat, the dynamic toddler duo made a pass through the educational building. There Tate found the pictures his mommy entered of him. (He scored a pair of third place ribbons...what do those dumb judges know!) As Tate and his sweetie were heading out to the midway they shared an ear of roasted corn. Yummy!
The kiddos rode the Merry-Go-Round, a car ride, the train and the jumbo slide. Next they played a grab-the-ducky game. Tate won a toy car and Emmalynn won a tiara.
As the night was winding down Tate said goodbye to his little lady companion, but continued with his fair experience, pressing on to the petting zoo. Tate was having an absolute blast feeding carrots to the pygmy goats and other various critters. Then it happened! The Bug was feeding this one animal, an alpaca (sp?) or something like that. It was a tall, white, mop-headed looking creature. Anyhow, Tate was feeding him a carrot when the beast bit my baby! For a split second Tater Bug was stunned. He didn't know what to think. Then he let out a blood curdling scream. That stupid beast broke the skin on one of Tate's little fingers. We rushed to the front of the big petting zoo tent and were given an antiseptic wipe to clean the wound. The only thing the guy manning the tent had to say was: Was he holding the carrot flat in the palm of his hand?
Of course not, but none of the other animals tried to take a plug out of him! I was irate, but kept it together pretty well if I do say so myself.
By this point it was really starting to get late and we hadn't hit the commercial building. So, to help with the calming down process, we made a quick sweep through the commercial building.
It didn't take long for Tate to find food. I'm not sure of the name of the booth, but one of the women working it not only offered him a bite of something, but feed it too him!
All in all I would say Tate had a good time at the fair.

Week 77

2008-09-11T22:36:00.001-05:00

Ok, this shoe thing is getting a little out of hand! Tonight I caught Tate with his foot in one -- not two, but one -- of Chuck's tennis shoes. Unlike Tate's Nike tennies (which make him faster) Chuck's shoe rendered him unable to be still. Nonetheless, I tried to get some pics. What is my crazy little boy going to think up next?

Week 76: Ridin' Daddy

2008-09-11T22:28:00.000-05:00

I think Tate has done it. He's tamed the beast, um.. I mean Chuck. We can't seem to get the dogs to give Tate a horsy ride anymore. So Tate talked his pop into taking him for a ride. Honestly, I don't know who had more fun!!!!

Four Generations of Hardin Men

2008-09-11T22:15:00.000-05:00

The last couple of weeks have been nerve racking for the Hardin family. From a previous blog post you know that Chuck's grandpa gave us quite a scare. He's home now and doing well. Pawpaw Hardin was released from the hospital about a week ago. After a handful of trips to the hospital in Memphis, Chuck, Tate and I were more than happy to make the trip Blytheville to see pawpaw. I'm even happier to post this new four-generation picture of the Hardin men. Here's to many, many more versions of this picture!

Locker Jokes

2008-09-05T23:21:00.000-05:00

A week ago Wednesday I was sitting at my desk at work when I heard the familiar tone that alerts me that I have a new text message. I scooped my phone up and read that Chuck's Grandpa Hardin was being rushed to the hospital via ambulance on suspicious that he had suffered a stroke. Later it was determined that he had not a had a stroke, but was bleeding from the brain due to a fall the day before. Pawpaw Hardin was transported from the hospital in Blytheville to the Baptist East in Memphis. To make a long story short Pawpaw Hardin underwent two surgeries to stop the bleeding. He was released from the hospital this evening and to the best of my knowledge is resting comfortably at home. (We're headed to Blytheville tomorrow to see pawpaw.) Anyhow, I tell you all that to set the scene for the picture that follows.
Chuck, Tate and I met Chuck's parents in the ICU waiting room the following morning. It didn't take Tate long to discover a set of lockers tucked away near the restrooms in the waiting room. My little guy was intrigued by the lockers. He wanted to know how they worked. He even got in one of the lockers. It reminded me of that on Nickoleodon (sp?) when I was a kid... You Can't DO That On Television. Remember the part of the show where the kids hid in lockers and pop out to tell jokes. Maybe Tate could be Alister?
Again let me apologize for the quality of this photo. It's a cell phone picture.

Barnes and Noble

2008-09-05T23:06:00.001-05:00

Ok this picture was taken with Chuck's cell phone. Not the best quality photo, but it was a cute moment caught forever thanks to modern technology.
About two weeks ago Chuck needed to pop in Barnes and Noble to pick up a book he needed for work. So, the three of us marched into the mega bookstore. Tate and I played chase in the card aisle while Chuck bought the book. As we headed out Tate, who has to do EVERYTHING his daddy does, decided he wanted to carry the book. Do we have a shopper on our hands?

Adventures of Tate: Trip to Oklahoma

2008-08-31T23:03:00.000-05:00

Tractors, fire trucks, durable medical equipment and some good old fashioned fun on the living room floor filled Tate’s Labor Day weekend.
Chuck, Tate and I hitched a ride with my mom and step-dad to Oklahoma to see the Sadler family (my mom’s family, which includes grandma, two aunts, two uncles and a handful of cousins).
Tate had the privilege of climbing all over the trucks at the Altus Fire Department. He climbed in the cab of one truck and latched on to the steering wheel. Then he played the role of captain, sitting contently on the passenger side while Uncle Tommy drove him around (not literally). Of course, he had to examine the equipment. He climbed all over it, taking a break every now and then to report his findings to Chuck or myself.
There was also the trip to the farm. Anyone who knows a firefighter knows that they all have two jobs. When Uncle Tommy isn’t fighting fires, he helps out on his cousin’s farm. At the farm Tate took a ride on a great big John Deere tractor. He liked it so much he didn’t want to get out. Eventually Chuck and I were able to coax him out of the tractor’s cab. After the tractor ride Tate and Chuck took a spin on the 4-wheeler. It was reported that Tate let out a few squeals of “wee!!!” while on the 4-wheeler.
At Plantation Village, where Gigi (great-grandma) Sadler lives, Tate found yet another something to ride. His gigi has a power wheelchair. My little guy had great fun climbing on and taking a ride with whoever would drive him around the halls of the assisted living complex. There was also a walker, which Tate had a blast climbing on. Crazy kid!
On Saturday night the family gathered for dinner. Afterwards we all piled in Uncle Tommy’s living room. There Tate played with his cousins’ cell phones and they played with his toys.
A good time was had by all. Tate had an absolute blast! The little guy was plum tuckered out. Let’s just say he slept GOOD that night!

Visit to the Altus Fire Department

Trip to the farm

DME fun

Living room fun

Exhausted

Week 74.5: Tate's new shoes!

2008-08-29T00:39:00.000-05:00

As other children were heading out for the first day of school, Tate was preparing for another day at daycare. In the spirit of "back to school" Chuck and I put Tate in his new shoes, a pair of Nike "Shocks." Because I am a parent and am no longer hip and up on fashion, I didn't realize it, but apparently these shoes are all the rage. Well, Tate thought so. Normally after the little guy gets his shoes on in the morning he toddles off to find a little mischief before I scoop him up and loaded him up for another riveting day at daycare. On this particular day Tate grabbed the sassy bag (which contained his overnight diaper) and headed for the door. He was ready to go and he was going to lend a helping hand so that we could get out the door and on to daycare! Tate was really strutting around and you couldn't wipe the grin off of his face. What a silly kid! This is Tate's first pair of "performance" tennis shoes. If they make you feel that good, maybe I should get a pair! Let me just add that along with the shoes came some new found speed. Tate's running further and faster than ever. Thanks Nana!

Week 74: Cleaning House

2008-08-29T00:25:00.000-05:00

As long as Tate has been mobile I've noticed a rather peculiar "like" of my little man. He likes, let me rephrase, LOVES cleaning! I'm not sure where he developed this. Maybe because when I was home on maternity leave I cleaned house everyday. I'm not nearly as vigilant now, but when I do clean I try to run the boys off so I can clean in peace and quiet. Apparently the damage has already been done. Tate will run around the house for an hour playing with the broom and he REALLY loves it when you turn the vacuum on and let him push it around. Regardless I can't wait until he's a little older and can actually be productive while playing with the vacuum or broom. Tate doesn't know it yet, but he's definitely going to be "mommy's little helper" in a few years!

Week 73: PBJ Birthday

2008-08-21T22:06:00.000-05:00

Tate's social calendar keeps me so busy these days! On Saturday we went to a birthday celebration. This one was quite different from the standard birthday party Tate has attended in recent months. There weren't a million toddlers running around with the traditional pointy party hats, there wasn't a mountain of presents piled on a table and there was no cake. Instead, we headed to Blytheville to celebrate Tate's great-grandpa Johnson's birthday. The family met at Sharecropper's, a quaint downtown eatery known for their ribs and huge meringue pies (my personal favorite is chocolate). Tate, on the other hand, was rather fond of the double-decker peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Of course he had to have an appetizer of Cheerios before digging in to the main course. After lunch, Tate had plenty of energy to burn off anddiscovered the bar stools at the restaurant's lunch counter. I think he was mimicking our waitress. He's quite a sponge these days!

Week 73: Aunt Moe and Oreos

2008-08-14T23:18:00.001-05:00

Chuck and I took a couple of days off last week and headed up to Mountain Home for a few days. Once there, Tate had the opportunity to play with cousins Marisa and Bill, who live in Texas. Since Chuck is an only child and has only four first cousins, Bill and Marisa have been dubbed Uncle Bill and Aunt Marisa (or Moe for short).
We left Wednesday after work. It didn't take long for Tate start being spoiled by the Texas kin.
Following a day on the lake Aunt Moe and Tate indulged in a helping of milk and cookies.
It made for cute pictures, but let's just say Tate didn't eat much dinner that night.
Oh well! We only see the Texas kin once, maybe twice a year. He can be a member of the clean plate club some other day!

Tate would like to play

2008-08-09T00:14:00.000-05:00

A week or so ago Chuck, Tate and I were up at the lake visiting with Chuck's mom and dad, who recently got a Wii Fit. Everyone was playing the various games and exercises all weekend. Finally Tate had had enough. He wanted to play too! Tate had been watching and knew you had to turn the foot pad deal on to begin. Next he knew that in order to play you have to step on to the foot pad deal and to move your cartoon character you have to lean. I think he's going to be a pro in no time flat!