Welcome to The Funny Farm

Wampler's Chocolate Factory

2009-08-12T08:31:00.006-05:00

Chocolate Play Dough!

3 cups powdered sugar

6tbsp baking cocoa

3/4 cup powdered milk

(find it on the sugar and flour aisle)

1/2 cup butter at room temperature (no substitutes)

1/2 cup light corn syrup

1tsp vanilla

Knead and Play!

As our summer winds down, we are still looking for new ideas to keep our hands busy. Thanks to Danielle, we have a new activity! It's chocolate play dough. We made a batch at my sister's yesterday, and the twins and their cousins had a good time playing with it. I am including the recipe below. We decorated it with m&m's and pretzels. Danielle had the cute idea of adding gummy worms. You can actually eat the chocolate creation!

A Day at the Park

2009-07-17T17:15:00.002-05:00

A favorite park activity- the slide!

This was a neat scene as it came across the lake... a flock of swimming ducks leaving a beautiful wake pattern as they traveled.

Synchronized Swimming!

We really enjoyed the ducks, and even saw some adorable ducklings. However, the funniest thing were these ducks diving head first all at the same time. We enjoyed the entertainment!

Fotos from the Fourth!!

2009-07-05T15:35:00.009-05:00

We Love America!

We had a festive Fourth with Swimming and Shrimp! Here are some moments...

Harrison and Abby

Harrison and Hailey floating on the big raft

Hailey and Doug (our Minister of Music and dear friend)

Daddy and his darling

Gettng our toes wet

There's a sparkle about her!!

The twins with Abby and Sarah Katherine Spires,
very special friends, enjoying some sparklers!

2009-07-04T10:54:00.004-05:00

Wishing you a Happy 4th!

July 4th, 2006

Hailey and Harrison

two months old

I couldn't get these next two pictures flipped,

but I thought they l were worth adding for you to see!

Hailey in a Hat!

Holding Harrison

We hope everyone has a wonderful 4th of July!!!

Love

~Travis, Kerri, Hailey, & Harrison~

Fun at Fairpark!

2009-06-27T07:57:00.007-05:00

The twins had a great time at the splashpad at Fairpark yesterday. Fairpark is a district of town with restaurants, new businesses, the courthouse, etc. They have a great fountain that is free for the public to enjoy.

Sights of Summer!

2009-06-22T16:23:00.006-05:00

"Khaki Rollers!"

This haybale pictures was stemmed from one of the funniest things I have ever heard my child say... This field is about 2 blocks from our house, and we pass it everytime we live the neighborhood. One day, Harrison said, "Khaki Rollers!" I instantly thought my child was brilliant. He isn't that keen on his colors, and we are not even close to classifying a shade as "khaki." But when he said "khaki rollers," I thought he meant the color of the hay and the "shape" of the bale, which would 'roll.' It wasn't until I told Kathy (AKA: Khaki,) about this that it all came to light. When Travis drops the twins off at Kathy's on Thursday morning for their Mother's Day Out carpool, she always has big rollers in her hair. Now, we have a complete story of the haybales and the khaki (hair) roller!!!

Tupelo Buffalo Park

I snapped this picture as I drove by the Buffalo Park. It is about 3/4 of a mile from our house. If you are ever in town, it is a neat place to visit. On a daily basis, the twins are able to see and identify a variety of animals, including buffalo (or buckos, as they call it,) camels, and zebras. If you look closely, you can see a buffalo resting in the shade (top of photo.)

Sizzlin' Summer Fun!

The following pictures were taken this weekend as the twins played in their new sprinkler that Carol gave to them for their birthday. What a great gift!!!

figuring it out...

Harrison in his BAYWATCH audition
This one cracks me up!!
(look at Harrison's face)

running crazy!

Now, look at Hailey's face!
When it is too hot to be outside, pull out the Play-Doh!

Saying Goodbye....

2009-06-12T20:12:00.007-05:00

We will miss you, Jo-Lynn!!

Today has been a sad day because I had to say goodbye to a very special friend. It has been a delight to know Jo-Lynn, Matt, Sarah, and Will. They have touched so many lives in the past three years while living in Tupelo.

We will miss you, sweet friend. I know that you will be a blessing to others in Arkansas, just as you have been to us.

We love you!!

All Smiles... Our First Trip to the Dentist!

2009-06-09T15:37:00.003-05:00

Yesterday the twins had their first visit to the dentist. They call it a Happy Visit, and do only as much as the patient allows. Hailey and Harrison wouldn't get in the chair alone, but they would while in my lap. Also, they were very interested in the prophy cup (tooth polisher,) the mirror, the water squirter, and Mr. Thirsty (suction.) They even let the hygienist tickle their teeth with the prophy. They left with lots of treats in tow, including a new toothbrush, a dinosaur flosser, a toy, a sticker, and a balloon!

Super Smiles!

We Did It!!

"The Hurrier I Go, the Behinder I Get..."

2009-05-20T20:15:00.005-05:00

These blog updates are so, so long overdue. We have had some fun days over the past month. We have pictures from Easter, the twins end-of-the-year school music, and Birthday #3!!!

I will post lots of pictures, so ENJOY!

Happy Birthday, Hailey and Harrison!!

(with Aunt Kristi)

Calvary's 2 year-old Preschool Class

(the twin's singing debut)

EASTER 2009

Dying Easter Eggs with Daddy
Easter Egg Hunt at Ballard Park

Easter Sunday at church

hunting eggs at PawPaw and Nana's house

World's Cutest Cowboy!

2009-04-10T14:25:00.002-05:00

A Day in the Life of a Preschooler...

2009-04-08T12:53:00.006-05:00

Today had to be one of my favorite parties that I have attended for the twins' class. Their Easter party was so cute. As always, kudos to Miss Pam and Miss Rennie for hosting a fun and festive event. I sneaked (is that the right word?) in a few minutes early and caught story time. Hailey in the on the very from row, far left, and Harrison is fifth from the right, with his head down.

Hailey and Harrison shoot the breeze over cupcakes and Caprison.

I wish you could see this Easter Bonnet better... it is adorned with Easter eggs and a sweet little chick!

Harrison takes after mom with his sweet tooth!

This is the famous class picture. They were so cute.

This picture is, without a doubt, my favorite. Miss Pam gave Hailey and another little boy a head start, since Hailey moves a little slow ; ) Although she is seen in the act of running, she still only got two eggs!! No one tell her... she was as happy as a lark with her pink egg find!!
My honey bunny!

I know I enjoyed the day as much as the kids. I guess the egg hunt was good practice for the weekend. We are going to Ballard Park for another hunt on Saturday, and Sunday will be a fun day at PawPaw and Nana's in Columbus!

Bunny Bliss

2009-04-07T11:28:00.002-05:00

Today we made Easter Bunny pictures. You can see them on the right. So, here we are washing paint off of our feet in the kitchen sink. They thought it was pretty fun! Tomorrow the twins have their Easter party at school, full with an Easter Egg Hunt!! It will be a fun week filled with Easter festivities! We hope you all have a wonderful Easter!

These make me smile! Easter 2007

2009-04-06T16:16:00.002-05:00

Spring Breaks "Stuffs"

2009-03-24T20:54:00.005-05:00

Thursday, Friday and Saturday of last week, the Patrick clan (my dad and step mom, Kristi and the girls, the twins and me, and my brother and sis-in-law) visited at my dad's in Columbus for some fun-filled happenings. It was simple, laid-back, spring fun. Here are a few pictures capturing the moments...

"Hula Hailey"
Hailey modeling her grass skirt and coconuts that MawMaw brought back from Hawaii

(we were still at home for this picture,)

Natalie, Alyson, and the twins had their first fishing experience. They all caught a fish!

~Nana and Harrison~

~Hailey and her catch~

~ PawPaw and Harrison~

~The catching crew~
Hailey, Alyson, Harrison, and Natalie

~Octopus Soup for Lunch~
(really, it's just a boiled hotdog....)

~Swing Fever~

these swings were made by my grandad for Kristi and me when we were little. Now, the second generation of grandkids are enjoying "Greatman's" craftsmanship. They have brought many hours of fun over the years. They now hang from a big tree at my dad's house.

Bunny on the Loose!

2009-03-10T17:28:00.003-05:00

Whenever I look in the kid's ears, I say that I am looking for rabbits. Well, here is the rabbit! Harrison's first ear tube fell out today. If you have never seen one, it is tiny! One of Hailey's has come out, and I managed to find it, as well. I have it stuck on the end of a toothpick for illustrative puposes. It resembles a tiny thread spool.

Fun at the Park

2009-03-10T12:41:00.007-05:00

This morning we ran a few errands and then met Jo-Lynn and Will at the park. The twins think it is so cool running around with Will, because he is a "Big Kid." After lunch, it didn't take long for my two to crash!! We love the 80 degree temperature, even if it is for just a few days!

Saturday afternoon, I was able to spend a few hours scrapbooking, while Travis took the twins to the park. Below is the sight that I saw when I opened the garage. Travis had taken the twins out of his truck and propped them against the garge wall so they could fininsh their nap. They were sleeping so good in their carseats! Smart daddy!

Pretty in Pink!

2009-03-06T16:42:00.004-06:00

Our Dancing Queen!

(actually she is just playing dress-up.. but this is fairly a new activity for her!)

There's No Business Like Snow Business!!!!

2009-03-02T13:17:00.004-06:00

From the looks of several blogs, many of us woke up to a sweet snow on Sunday. It makes me feel like a kid again! We actually still have a little in a pinestraw in the flowerbeds... that's where "the sun don't shine." We had a sweet time discussing the snow phenomenon with the twins. This is actually their second snow- it snowed a good bit on March 7 of last year. Maybe they are a good luck charm!

~Sunday morning~

(I can't wait to get landscaping in our yard!!)

March 7, 2008 Tupelo SNOW
(below)

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Flip Flopping Fun!!

Saturday

Saturday was a very busy day. We went to a Focus on the Family Marriage Conference from 8-3:30 at the church. It was a simulcast that broadcasted to over 400 around North America. Our church, Calvary, was a host church. Some of the speakers included Gary Smalley and Beth Moore. We really enjoyed the entire conference. After that ended, we headed over to a birthday party for a classmate of the twins. It was held at Flip Flop Gymnastics, and they had a blast!! Everything is geared for smaller kids. They walked on the balance beams (with help,) swung on the rings and bars. The ballpit and jumper were also a huge hit. Unfortunately, my camera only captured a few shots before the battery died, but it gives you the jist. After all this fun, we had steak and taters with some friends. As we were driving around on Saturday, Hailey spoke up from the backseat and said, "I've had a fun day!" That speaks for all of us!

Fingerpainting in February!

2009-02-24T16:34:00.010-06:00

Here we are in the last part of February... part of me thinks that the year is moving by so quickly, but the other part says, "Hurry up, Spring!" As the cool days linger and the twins' napping seems to get shorter, I find myself having to pull things out of my magic hat to keep them entertained. This weekend we made playdoh (recipe below), and today we pulled out the fingerpaints. As you will notice, most of Harrison's paint was applied as a body butter. Hmmm... that will take a little soaking. Hailey is a little more delicate in her activities. See for yourself.

Then comes the clean-up!

Everyone came out fresh as a flower!

If any of you need a way to fill the wintery days, maybe this recipe will help!

Homemade Play Dough

1 cup flour

1/2 cup of salt

2 tsp. cream of tartar

1 cup water

1 tbsp vegetable oil

food coloring

Combine flour, salt, and cream of tartar in a saucepan. In a bowl, put water, oil, and food coloring (to desired color.) Gradually stir wet ingredients into the dry ones until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until a ball forms. Remove from stove and cool. Knead until smooth. Store in airtight container.

This is super simple and makes a great play dough!

Have fun!!

BTW:!!

2009-02-17T20:10:00.000-06:00

My email is working fine now!!

What's New?

2009-02-17T19:29:00.004-06:00

Jo-Lynn and I discussed that our lack of blogging lately is due to the fact that things have drastically slowed with the winter season. We all know that it will pick back up in the spring. I can't wait for the warmer weather. Here a a few of our happenings... just day to day stuff!

Valentine's Day... Yeah!!

A treat for the twins

for mom... with a box of chocolates!
A Hearty Party at Preschool!

A Birthday Bash for a Special Friend...

with our favorites- cupcakes and Goldfish!

EMAIL!!

2009-02-02T18:16:00.001-06:00

My email is currently down due to our computer crash recently. I hope to have it running soon!

Thank Goodness for the Quiet Days...

2009-02-02T17:39:00.004-06:00

Since our arrival back home after renting the house out for furniture market, life has been uneventful. Thank goodness. Despite all them crazy events at my sister's house during our stay, we still had a wonderful time. It was only after I left their house that I realized how much I really miss my sister. On a different note, I haven't taken any pictures since we got home, because it takes us a while to resettle into a sense of "normalcy." So, I have decided to post some from earlier in the month. I thought they were cute.

Harrison has become a little camera shy, so I will have to capture some of him later. We are now back in the swing of things, with preschool, church, Mother's Day Out, etc. We are enjoying our routine. Oh, about my nose... I went to see Dr. Simmons today and got a good report. I do not need any additional work done as a result of my broken nose. Thanks to all you who have been so concerned about my accident. It is truely a blessing to have such wonderful friends!

"WAMP!"- ler

2009-01-24T15:59:00.006-06:00

~"Wamp" is the sound I heard when I hit the ground... ~

What started out to be a delightful trip to my sister's, went south fast-- literally. Natalie, Alyson, and Kristi were in the back lot flying kites when we arrived in Meridian around 3:35pm on Friday. Before we even made it into the house, we went to the back yard to play. Well, Kristi and I were attempting to take a picture of the kites, as they flew at close proximity. In the meantime, I tried to keep the strings from getting tangled. In that attempt, I tripped and fell to the ground- landing on nose. After a few minutes, I was picked up off the ground, cleaned up, and driven up the hill to the house in a golf cart. My WONDERFUL sister and nurse came to my immediate rescue, never leaving my side (I wouldn't let her.) After discussing our options, we decided to go to the Urgent

Care Clinic, (mostly for a tetanus shot due to the cut on my nose,) but they closed just prior to our arrival. So, we walked next door to the ER. In 34 years, this is my first trip to the ER as a patient. The staff at Jeff Anderson Regional Medical Center was wonderful, and my treatment was quick. I got cleaned up, got my shot, and my X-Ray showed that my nose was broken. I was given Lortab (hallelujah,) and orders to follow-up with my Tupelo ENT. All of that happened in the first 3 hours after our arrival. Thank goodness day one came to a close. Day 2... more drama. Hailey was sent to "her" room, (really her cousins',) for time out. While pitching a fit, she managed to lock herself in the bedroom. Kristi and I couldn't get her out... the "tools" that we tried to use wouldn't unlock the door. We even attempted a window rescue, on a ladder in the rain. No luck. After calling all of our knights in shining armor, the contractor gave us a hint on how to open the door. Mystery solved, much to our relief. NEXT. Harrison is picking up tinker toys, falls (while on his knees,) with a toy stick in his mouth, and cuts the roof of his mouth. We have been her 24 hours and our initiation is complete. Stay tuned... we are here until Tuesday!!

Check out my sister's blog for another perspective.

Beware! It is a little more graphic!

http://www.jadzinski4.blogspot.com/

Our Holiday Haze

2009-01-05T13:58:00.007-06:00

Christmas this year was eventful, but not in the most common way. After my last post on Christmas Eve, Travis came home from work with a stomach virus that put him in the bed. Hailey, Harrison, and I went ahead to the Christmas Eve Candlelight service at church... without Daddy. It was sad because it has always been a tradition of ours. When we came home, we ate chicken McNuggets and fries, instead of the nice dinner out that we usually share. Later that evening, Santa had to fly solo while the sick elf laid on the couch. Thank goodness the tricycle was "delivered" already assembled. Whew- we would have been up a creek! It seemed to go from bad to worse... Christmas morning Travis was up only long enough for the kids to see what Santa brought. Travis ended up in the ER for most of Christmas afternoon.... we finally opened presents that evening. The week did pick up as we headed for Travis' family get-together in Atlanta. That trip was so much fun. We got to see all his family, and the highlight was visiting with the twins' cousins... Andrew and Adam from North Carolina, and Olivia, their cousin with brain cancer who lives in Atlanta. Since the trip, we have done NOTHING!! Travis went back to work today for the first time since Christmas Eve. The kids and I are chomping at the bit to begin preschool again on Wednesday. By the way, for those who haven't heard, I will be assistant teaching 3 year-old preschool at the church 3 days a week (MWF,) and continuing to teach Mother's Day Out, as I have been. We are all excited about getting some normalcy back into our lives! I will post some picture highlights with brief descriptions from the past week-and-a-half. We hope you all have a Happy New Year!

Enjoying Santa's gifts...

Our Atlanta trip

Uncle Steve & Hailey enjoying shredded cheese!- Atlanta

Cousin OLIVIA!

www.caringbridge.org/visit.oliviawampler

Cousin Frank- the pot-bellied pig (Bill's)... Atlanta

The whole crew- minus the daughter's-in-law... Atlanta

Andrew- in red, Adam- in blue

Home again!!

Christmas Week... What We've Done!

2008-12-24T08:53:00.005-06:00

Merry Christmas!!

We have had such a great time preparing for Christmas! Now that our wishes have been submitted to Santa

(AKA: Ho Ho,) the presents have been wrapped, and the stockings hung, we take a look back at the fun we have had so far...

Twins' Preschool Party

A Christmas Casualty:

Harrison got hungry and ate the fruit loop garland that Hailey had made for their tree...

A gift from a neighbor... pretzel snowmen-- really cute!!

~The family Christmas @ Wamplerworld~

Friday Night, December 19

Hailey got a beanbag from Nana and PawPaw;

her name is Charlene.

Harrison likes to play rough with his beanbag!
My "little" brother, Keith, leads in Christmas carols

Natalie and Alyson sharing a song with PawPaw
Monday night our sweet friend Carol came over for a pre-Christmas visit. She gave the twins a fireman outfit and a vet's uniform. What a fun friend to have!!! We love Carol!

And finally, we all know that the angels sang glory to God in the highest... well, we will have to teach Harrison that the angel didn't ride in a chunky truck led by a pig in a trailer. We are working on the details of the story!

Merry Christmas to All!

~Love~

Travis, Kerri, Hailey, & Harrison

Letters to Santa

2008-12-15T11:32:00.004-06:00

Although Hailey and Harrison aren't speaking in full sentences all the time, they definately have a way of letting Santa know what they want for Christmas! However, they thought that writing a letter would help. I am sure that Santa understands green and red scribble, don't you? : )

P.S. Harrison did actually sit in Santa's lap last week... Hailey preferred to observe from afar.

One HOT Party!!

2008-12-15T11:22:00.004-06:00

The twins had the great opportunity to attend a birthday party of a sweet friend at the fire station on Saturday. Boy, was that fun!! They got a tour of the firehouse, watched the firefighters dress in their fireproof suits, were allowed to climb on the big red truck, and learn some about fire safety. Then, there was a great firetruck cake that tasted so good! What a fun memory!!

Tupelo Christmas Parade... Plenty of COLD Fun!!

2008-12-08T11:47:00.006-06:00

Saturday morning was a great time for a COLD parade. We enjoyed visiting with friends and sitting on Carley and Richard's curb! Hailey and Harrison, between shivers, enjoyed the parade... and the pigs in a blanket- Thanks Carley!!

*pictured are: red (Roll Tide) attire, Sarah and Will James; pink coat with mom, Lucy Helen and Carley Johnston

O Christmas Tree!!!!

2008-12-08T11:33:00.002-06:00

Friday the twins and I took up an art adventure. We made a tree topper for their tree. The wings are made after we traced and cut out Hailey's hands. She is very proud of her angel. Harrison was more of an "art consultant." Just give him a pair of scissors and some scrap paper... no harm done, just a lot of paper chips!

Christmas Cheer!

2008-12-03T08:13:00.007-06:00

I am like most people... I love this time of year!! We are only a week into the Christmas season, but we are enjoying every minute of it. I am posting some pictures from Saturday when we decorated the trees, plus a few extras of sweet moments around the house. The twins are enjoying looking (and swatting) the tree ornaments. Last year we had a barrier around the tree. So this year, it is a free for all! Also, it is also really sweet to watch them learn about the nativity. There is so much you can learn when looking through a child's eyes.

In our new jammies enjoying the Christmas scenery

We love handmade ornaments!

This train travels nonstop to the North Pole!

Trimming the tree!

This really needs explaining...

Harrison is hitting the Charlie Brown Nativity Scene with his hammer!

BWBB!!!

Thanksgiving Day

2008-11-28T20:07:00.005-06:00

The Patrick Family Tree

(branches include Jadzinski, Wampler, Chapman, & Leach + a few nuts)

We got a picture with the WHOLE family yesterday!

(Back L-R:) Keith (brother,) Nicole ( SIL,) Frankie BIL,) Kristi ( sis,) Travis, Kerri, Drew (step BIL,)

Mary Allison (step sis,) Michelle (step SIL,) Buster (my step sis)

(Front L-R:) Alyson (niece,) Charles (Dad,) Hailey, Debbie (step mom,) Harrison, Natalie (niece)

Our Thanksgiving Memories...

We started our day at Keith and Nicole's house. They fixed us homemade pancakes and pigs in a blanket. We also got to watch the Macy's Day parade with them. It was a wonderful way to start the day! We also had a wonderful Thanksgiving at my Dad and Step moms. We ate, ate, & ate. We also rode on PawPaw's barrel bus, played kickball, and watched football. We loved spending time with the family!

Hailey and Harrison finally got moved to the BIG KIDS table!!

My dad made this table for us when we were kids!

Making Merry Memories

2008-11-28T18:45:00.007-06:00

~Awesome Ornaments~

First Try!!!

Jo-Lynn, Will, Sarah, Natalie, & Kristi

Alyson

Harrison and mom

Hailey and mom

We had such a fun time making Christmas ornaments! My sister, Kristi, and my neices, Natalie and Alyson, spent the week with us and we had such a sweet visit. Tuesday we went over to Jo-Lynn's to make the ornaments. The first go round was a trial... you can see the first attempt at the top. It was snowmen with severe cellulite issues. The second batch came out better! This is a fun a easy activity to do with your kiddos. Here is the recipe:

1 2/3+ cups of warm water

1 cup of salt

4 cups of all purpose flour

Disolve the salt in the warm water. Then continue mixing and stir in your flour. It will get firm. You will need to knead it to get it good and mixed. We found that there is a good bit of dry mix at the bottom after all the mixing. Just keep kneading until it is all mixed. Roll dough to thickness of about 1/4 inch. Cut with cookie cutters. Cook at 350 degrees. Your time may vary... we try 10-15 minutes on each side.

The next step is to...

PAINT!!

The results are cute!

A Pleasant Surprise!

2008-11-28T18:32:00.008-06:00

Monday morning my dad and stepmom came by for a short visit. We really enjoyed their company. We talked about our Christmas plans, and they read books to Hailey and Harrison. Debbie, my stepmom, is a third grade teacher in Columbus, so having a story read by Nana is extra special.

Pawpaw is pretty cool too, because he can make his ears wiggle!!

Partying Pilgrims

2008-11-21T10:24:00.006-06:00

Hailey and Harrison had their preschool Thanksgiving party yesterday... yes, we Baptist love to party! They enjoyed turkey, pringles, and cupcakes... just like the Pilgrims ate at the first Thanksgiving!!

A Turkey Treasure

2008-11-19T07:45:00.003-06:00

This isn't just a turkey, as anyone can see.

It is made with my hand, which is part of me.

It comes with lots of love, especially to say,

I hope you have a very happy Thanksgiving Day!

Harrison (top picture,) & Hailey

Our Trip to Aunt Kristi's House

2008-11-17T08:12:00.003-06:00

Natalie and her Junie B. Jones storyboard

The twins and I had a great time visiting with my sister, brother-in-law, and nieces this past weekend. They have recently moved to Meridain, so we loaded up after Mother's Day Out Thursday and headed south. The twins had a great time playing with their cousins, Natalie and Alyson. While we were there, I was able to eat lunch at school with Natalie on Friday, then we did a little shopping. Saturday we watched MSU play football on TV. After going to church Sunday, we headed home. I was also able to help Natalie with her storyboard for school. That was a lot of fun. We are looking forward to a visit from them next week, just prior to Thanksgiving. I can't wait to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade with a house full of family!!

My sister would never admit to this, but she is a wonderful cook. She cooked a couple of my favorite dishes for me while we were there... I have listed one of them below.

Chicken Spaghetti

1 package of thin spaghetti (7 to 16 oz depending on the size dish you want to make, I think I used 12 or 16 oz this time), cook as directed.
1 Rostisserie chicken (or 2 cans of chicken if you are in a hurry), pulled
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 can rotel (I use mild)
1 lb velveeta cheese, cubed
1 small can english peas
8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Mix all ingredients together except for shredded cheese. If I am fixing a small dish, I usually leave off the cream of chicken soup unless you want it a little soupy.
Pour into a casserole dish and top with cheddar cheese. Cook at 350 degrees until cheese is melted and bubbly (usually about 30-40 minutes).

Our Beloved Biscuit... A Tribute

2008-11-10T10:39:00.022-06:00

Biscuit Roosevelt Wampler
November 5, 1998- November 4, 2008

It has been just shy of a week since we lost our sweet Biscuit. We had ten wonderful years to spend with him. He was a joy in every aspect, and our hearts are broken.
As part of saying good-bye, it is only fitting that we share some of Biscuit's finest moments...

~Baby Biscuit ~

We bought Biscuit our first Christmas that we were married.

~El-Bis... ~

Biscuit dressed as Elvis
We took every opportunity to show Biscuit off.

Here, he was dressed for a pet parade at the Elvis Presley Festival.

~A Tradition~
This is one of my favorite pictures we took of him for our Christmas card.

~Biscuit's first snow~

A puppy in the powder!

~A Bucket of Biscuit~

Fall 2008

The crew taking a tractor ride...

this will always make me laugh!!

I wish I had these photos dated... however, we know that over the past ten years, we have created many cherishable memories. Whether it was Biscuit meeting us at the door, sleeping in our bed, being chased by Harrison, or his renowned vocals, he will be terribly missed. Thanks for sharing in his life!

He was truly a man (and woman's) best friend.

It's the Great Pumpkin...

2008-11-03T18:31:00.005-06:00

Saturday we ventured to the great city of Tremont, MS. We were visiting a pumpkin farm that is owned by one of Travis' co-workers. This was so much fun!!! I highly recommend this as a family activity if you live in the area. It is worth the drive. Even though it was after Halloween, we still snagged a few pumpkins to nestle on our front porch for the fall season. Hailey and Harrison got to ride in the barrel train, posed for a scarecrow picture, and we took a wagon ride "over the river and through the woods." The weather was PERFECT!! We can't believe it is November already. We are excited about the wonderful Thanksgiving season. We have so much to be thankful for...

A Hailey and Harrison Halloween...

2008-11-03T11:51:00.004-06:00

This is our actual trick or treating day. We started out by going to Travis' office, where all the employees load the kids up with candy. Then we killed time at home playing outside until Travis made it home from work. Once it got dark, we ventured to a few houses and sampled some fine sugary candy. Here are just a few shots of the days activities.

Harrison was tired before the gala had even begun.

waiting on Daddy to get home

Posing for mom...

I love this shot... monkey see, monkey do!!

Off we go!! This set of wheels gets great gas mileage.

Looking for treats at the Young's

Travis and I are really enjoying all the candy the kids collected.

We can't wait 'till next year!! : )

Partying Preschoolers

2008-11-03T11:24:00.003-06:00

Thursday the twins had their Halloween party at preschool. It was filled with balloons, snacks, stories, and pumpkins. What fun! Hailey is in the top center in the top picture; Harrison is top center in the bottom picture.

Calvary's Family Fall Festival... Fabulous!!

2008-10-31T14:07:00.012-05:00

At the Sock Hop...

Wednesday was the Fall Festival at church, and the twins went back in time and dressed as a fifties couple. Despite my best efforts of taking happy children to the festival, half of the duo thwarted my attempts. I bet you can guess who... instead of leaving the sock hop, Hailey appears to have just gotten off of the grump stump! Despite my sweet Kara's (Young) efforts, it took food to put the bounce back in Hailey J's socks!

Hailey and KK (Kara)

Harrison, on the other hand, was full steam. His socks were hopping most of the night. Here he is standing in the middle of a giant bubble. Despite the fun booths, finding the candy buckets was the most enjoyable activity of the night!

Harrison: on, or in, the bubble?

Dancing with my stars

below:

Hailey whacks at bubbles with a noodle;

Harris (Ward) and Harrison;

double trouble in a bubble

Extra, Extra, Read All About It!

2008-10-31T13:43:00.010-05:00

"Special Halloween Edition"

We have little goblins (AKA: Hailey and Harrison) running around our house with full bellies and sugar high this week! We started out Monday night by carving our pumpkin. The twins got a kick out of it this year. They were very interactive and wanted to help Daddy.

Step #1: Carve a happy face

Step#2: Point, laugh, and make funny faces at the pumpkin

Step#3: Drill holes for special effects

Step #4: BLING!

*No children were harmed in the making of this Jack-O-Lantern.

Trick or Treat?!

2008-10-31T12:04:00.004-05:00

It seems like only tricks here this week!!! By that I mean that our email and internet have been down all week. What a bummer! It has been a fun week with all the Halloween festivities, but I wasn't able to post them. However, don't be alarmed... we will post a full Special Halloween Edition with all the ghosts and goblins one can stand! Stay tuned for our updates coming very soon!!!

The "Ghosts" of Halloween Past

2008-10-21T20:10:00.003-05:00

The Wacky Wamplers Love Halloween!

This year Halloween will be a new adventure at our house. Since both twins are walking , we get to officially trick or treat! We won't reveal our costumes quite yet, but they are in the works. I have posted pictures from our first two Halloweens. In 2006, Hailey and Harrison were couch potatoes, and in 2007 they were dice. We are looking forward to our church Fall Festival next week, where much fun and festivities are guaranteed! We will post new Halloween pictures next week!

Happy Halloween!

Happy Birthday, Kristi!

2008-10-13T22:17:00.006-05:00

Happy Birthday, Kristi!

October 18, 1972

Kristi, left & Kerri, right

late 1970's

This weekend we celebrate my sweet sister's birthday. Oh the fun times we have shared!

I love you!

visit her family at http://www.jadzinski4.blogspot.com/

Friday Night Fever!

2008-10-13T20:29:00.007-05:00

Harrison, Nicole, Keith, & Hailey

It takes Uncle Keefer (my brother, Keith,) and Travis to pull off a highly functional piece of equipment as seen above... Keith and Nicole came up Friday night - from Columbus- to eat burgers. We always have such a great time visiting with them. So, you can bet that if Keith is around, there is crazy fun. The twins hopped in the laundry basket and Travis used my belt as a handle, and OFF they went. Around and around and around the room. We love cheap thrills!
For those of you who want an update on Keith, here it is... he married Nicole Lollar on September 22 of last year (see picture below)- after many years of dating! They just bought a really cute house in Columbus, where she is a financial aid counselor at MUW and Keith works at Aurora Flight Sciences. They are doing wonderful, and it is always a joy to be able to spend time with the two of them.

visit them at http://www.thepatrickfamily22.blogspot.com/

(she also has a nephew named Harrison, so don't get confused!) : )

Fabulous Fall Fun!

2008-10-10T16:22:00.012-05:00

Today we went to the pumpkin patch and gigantic hay maze at the Tupelo Buffalo Park. A long- time friend from Columbus and her son (who is a few weeks older than the twins,) met us at the park. We did the hay maze... and got lost. Yes, we did. We ended up climbing over the bales of hay to get out!! I don't recommend the activity for preschoolers.. or maybe even their parents!! The twins played in the air castle, pet the goats, and enjoyed other activities that were offered. As for the pumpkin patch, Harrison wasn't too picky... Hailey couldn't find a pumpkin that was "perfect enough." So, I snatched one on the way out for her, just to make it worth our money! We left the park hot, red-faced, and hungry, but with lots of fun stories to tell! Thanks Susie and Thomas for a fun day!!

Positively Pumpkins!!!

Pick of the Patch...

Hailey and Billy.

Almost a FULL MOON in the pumpkin patch!

The tortoise and the.... goat? Possibly a new twist on an old story.

Making Memories

2008-10-10T16:06:00.004-05:00

I have a dear friend in Virginia who is homeschooling her little boy, Nicholas. She gave me this great idea. They made a scarecrow, and in the process talked about shapes, etc. We thought we would give it a try. The twins are learning about colors and shapes in prechool, so we tried to pull from that vast pool of knowledge they have absorbed. I think we got more glue and marker on the table, but the results were little materpieces. She the final product in the left column... Thanks for the idea, Beverly!

Just Some Pictures!

2008-10-03T11:04:00.008-05:00

Harrison got a new haircut... Hailey went along for the lollipops!

Happy Birthday, Sweet Girls!!

2008-09-28T14:15:00.008-05:00

For all you gals who know how much I love being an aunt, I thought you might like to see these pictures of Natalie and Alyson. Natalie will be 9 on October 4, and Alyson turned 5 on Friday. Kudos to my sister, who pulled off a great party for both girls at their grandparents farm Saturday night. Over the past nine years, Kristi and I have had so much fun sharing in the joys of parenthood. It always made my day for her to call and "share a funny," from one of the girls. Now that I have Hailey and Harrison, the bond between us has only grown sweeter. As many of you know, Kristi, Frankie, and the girls moved to Meridian this summer. It adds an hour of a distance between, which I don't particularly like. However, we always find a way to make the best of our time together. Here's to a wonderful sister and friend... I love you, Big Sis!

This party ROCKS!!!!! Complete with a dance stage... hotdog roast... hayride... and a ride on Pawpaw's homemade "barrell bus!"

A Moment in Time.

2008-09-18T21:28:00.006-05:00

There are just some moments in life that strike you. This was no huge moment, but I did think it was priceless from a mother's point of view. We have been trying to get our backyard fence finished for weeks now (it's finally done!), for the sake of the dogs. Well, it also allows more freedom for the kids to play in the backyard. I happened to take a peek through the window and this is the picture I captured.

I hope it makes you smile!

Happy Birthday, Daddy! (September 18)

2008-09-15T21:32:00.006-05:00

Today is Daddy's birthday!!

Today is Daddy's Birthday,
We think he is pretty swell,
So please want you call him,
And offer wishes well!

Monday, Monday!!

2008-09-15T20:41:00.004-05:00

Today the weather was wonderful, so we did a little play inside and outside. The twins always seem to find the stuff they want. They have discovered the craft drawer in the laundry room. At first, they just went for crayons. Now they are branching out and wanting to paint. I do love to see their creativity blossom! The results were a pretty combination of red, blue, and yellow "smears." I have never seen paintings more beautiful!

After Travis got home, he attempted to work on Hailey and Harrison's playgym. Well, believe it or not, the twins can actually climb to the top of the platform by themselves (which is about 7.5 feet.) It was fun to watch the interest the twins had in what Travis was doing. It was a little impeding to Travis' speed, but sweet memories were made in the process!

*We are still working on potty training, thus the training pants/no shirt attire in the pictures. Both are doing good. Harrison made the most of the experience today by throwing a small, decorative knife in the big potty. He loves to flush, and if it entertains and keeps him interested in his mission, it's okay with me (to a point.) However, I knew there was trouble when I can back and saw no sign of the knife. I asked him about it, and in his own words, he let me know that he flushed it!

A Whimsical Weekend...

2008-09-08T07:20:00.007-05:00

1.) Travis and Harrison listening to the Bulldogs on the radio... must have been real exciting! 2.) Hailey and her Sunday afternoon nap. 3.) Martha Ann, this one is for you... for those of you who may have missed the scene in the church parking lot on Sunday, here is what happened... Harrison plopping face-down, completely horizontal - intentionally- balking, nose to the ground, on the concrete. Tickets were free, but I am sure I could have charged admission. Such a sight, and all you moms can laugh! Wish I had a picture. A true battle of the Harrison/Travis wills.

Happy Grandparent's Day!!

2008-09-03T22:15:00.010-05:00

Travis and I were blessed to be raised in wonderful, loving, Christian homes. We would like to take this time to say a big thank-you to our parents, now wonderful grandparents, for all you have done. As we celebrate Grandparent's Day on Sunday, Hailey and Harrison would like to send a big shout out to their terrific grandparents... left: Charles and Debbie Patrick, Kerri's dad and stepmom, and right: Lynn Wampler, Travis' mom. My mom (Kerri's) passed away in 1996. However, Hailey and Harrison will always have the honor of having her as a grandmother in their heart. Her name is June (AKA: JuneBUG), and Hailey is named in her honor.

Down on the Funny Farm

2008-09-03T15:09:00.008-05:00

They say that some pictures are worth a thousand words... well, to me, these are worth a thousand laughs and fun memories! Whenever Travis gets home from work , Hailey and Harrison are stuck to him like glue. Yesterday, Travis was outside working on landscaping the yard. Well, where there is Daddy and a tractor, there will be Harrison... and a little sister following. The twins wanted a ride down the street on the tractor. Since it was a family event, we decided to give Biscuit a ride in the front scooper. He was in Dog- Heaven! This was THE event of the evening at our house!

First Day of Preschool!

2008-09-02T08:43:00.004-05:00

As a parent, each new day presents new joys and exciting stories. Today we celebrate as the twins start their first day of preschool! We proudly drove up into ther carpool line and excitedly talked about their new teachers. They were all excited, until it came time to get out of the van. That was a different story. However, you can tell that by the time they got inside, they were fine! I am sure the school year will have many happy highlights, and I look forward to sharing them!

Prep School

2008-08-26T21:23:00.004-05:00

Last night the twins had open house for preschool. They begin next Tuesday, and will go Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8-11 am at our church. I must say we were looking quite spiffy in our fresh-pressed, coordinating outfits... until we got to the church and found that Harrison had two big chocolate milk blobs on his white shirt!! BWBB- Boys will be boys!

Highlights from Hot Springs...

2008-08-26T21:02:00.004-05:00

It should be a rule that you have the week after vacation to recover from vacation. Travis and I rent our house out to Furniture Market exhibitors from time to time. It is a great excuse to take a vacation and make little money at the same time. The two of us- H2W stayed with Travis' mother- spent last week in Hot Springs. We had a wonderful time, but we really missed the twins. We are very glad to be and back in the normalcy of our lives. Below I have listed some of the sights and activities that we enjoyed.
www.rideaduck.com (we did the duck tour and the wax museum)
www.buckstaffbaths.com
www.hotspringsar.com/info/tower/tower.htm
www.fishermanswharfhs.com/index.htm
www.midamericamuseum.org

Vacations can be Hairy!

2008-08-26T20:39:00.001-05:00

We have had a serious blog delay due to our vacation last week, and the recovery process this week! Updates are coming!

Daddy and his Duo

2008-08-13T21:35:00.009-05:00

"We find a delight in the beauty and happiness of children that makes the heart too big for the body."

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

A Drop in the Bucket- of Sorts!

2008-08-12T15:11:00.007-05:00

After conquering 8 pairs of training pants this morning- (8 JUST THIS MORNING!... okay, between the two of them, but who is counting;) Hailey tee-teed in the potty! Call it what you want, but we consider it a big victory! You can tell that Harrison is real excited about the whole potty training idea.

Our own Fruit Loop!

2008-08-11T08:23:00.005-05:00

Well, it's Monday, and it already proves to be!!! The twins were eating breakfast, consisting of Fruit Loops and milk. When I came back into the kitchen, Harrison was standing in his seat filling Hailey's Sunday shoes with Fruit Loops! The picture captures part of the moment. Life is full of SWEET suprises!!!!

A Perfect Saturday

2008-08-09T11:42:00.007-05:00

I set up my blog today, with the assistance of my sister and the advice of a good friend. I should be taking this time to be outside because the weather is wonderful here. However, I grab computer time when it is available, and when I don't have two (precious) monkeys pounding on the keys beside me. School started for Tupelo yesterday. However, that won't affect us for a few years. The twins will start two-year-old preschool on the Tuesday following Labor Day. That same week, I will also start teaching Mother's Day Out at our church on Thursdays. The twins will attend Calvary Preschool on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8-11am. It seems strange that Hailey and Harrison will start "organized" education in a few weeks. I am excited! As for now, I plan to enjoy my Saturday. Grandma is here, which means I have the "day off." I am piddling around the house, with plans to watch the Olympics tonight. Enjoy your day.