Deep Thoughts with Lexie.......Ha:)!
So, am new at this blogging thing, but have so far found it a good way to keep our family and closest friends updated on all that is happening here at the Griffin house. Have tried to keep the pictures flowing, because I know that's what all of you want to see! Today, well, today I have a lot on my mind and just feel like sharing with each of you. So, if you're not up for it, check out the pics and move on :). I have to know......anybody else have times in your life where it feels like people around you are falling apart? You know, death, terminal illness, wayward children, financial trouble, families in trouble, addiction? Serious stuff, but real none the less. My heart hurts, literally hurts, for so many people right now. There are just so many friends and loved ones dealing with so many things....it's frustrating! I so badly want each of you to have a blessed life. Happiness. Everyday. But life's not that way, you know? Well, for me, if I'm not careful, I start carrying around all of the needs and struggles that are going on around me. Of course I have enough responsibilities, enough of my own stuff...but seriously, I care that much that I end up carrying it around too. One word........EXHAUSTING. But God is still patient with me and still listens. Quietly loves and slowly starts to change my heart. It's like I hear him saying, "Why are you so focused on all of this going on around you? Why aren't you focusing on ME?" Great Question. Of course, HE is full of great questions and great wisdom isn't he? Ahhhhhhhhhhhh!!!! Hello Lexie!!!!!! Up here!!!!!! Remember ME???????????? And then, you know, crap.....I realize I'm caught up in my flesh again. Dang it. Dang it. Dang it. Anyway, I made it back to the gym today and had an epiphany while working out and listening to my ipod. For some reason music always speaks to me. Really speaks, you know? I don't have a musical bone in my body. I can't sing. Can't play an instrument. But, I can dance. Uh huh. I can dance. Listen, a long time ago we had an amazing Sunday School teacher named Matt. Sometimes he could be so serious, so intense. But we loved him and loved his heart. And he was so great to share it. I remember once that we got into a class discussion sort of like I'm talkin about here, and he mentioned that when life gets too busy, too loud..........too hard, that he pictures himself dressed in a purple suit (must have been a favorite color), with a purple top hat.............and in his mind........he just dances. Now, some of you may think this is weird and wonder if I'm losing my mind, but some of you will get this. That dancing...... it speaks to my soul. Anybody else? Well, I heard this song on my ipod. It's playing now as you read this blog. Just turn up your speakers. I'm not wearing a purple suit or top hat! But, something about this song today really spoke to me. I like to picture me driving at the beach. Windows or top down, clear blue sky, and not a care in the world. Just my arm stuck out the window, enjoying the feel of the wind, and marveling at the beauty around me. Life is tough ya'll. Some days bring so many laughs that your stomach hurts, and some days just stink. Me? Well, today, in my mind..........I'm dancing. Listen to the words. Wait for the end of the song. Turn it up loud. Make sure you're alone...........and just dance.

Now that I got that out (ha!) These pics were taken on our recent beach trip by a photographer by the name of Dedee Edwards. Family, you can go to her website at dedeedwards.com and look at our pics. Our password is our last name. I copied these from her blog and you can find that on her website too! Really love the one of the kids, running on the beach.....pure joy, you know? Looks like quite a few turned out well.......enjoy! Lexie

Happy Father's Day!!!!!

Just wanted to take a minute this Father's Day to let my dad know how much he means to me. Although we were able to spend some time together today swimming and enjoying some laid back grilling, I just want to make sure that he knows that I am thankful for him each and every day! Dad, you have always been there for me to offer encouraging words, a shoulder to cry on, a hot lunch when I was a broke college kid, and wisdom when I needed help figuring out who I was or where I was going. Most importantly, you have always guided me toward the Cross. Thank you for loving me enough to teach me about Jesus. To sing about Jesus. To model a christian life by depending on Jesus. I love you and am forever grateful that I get to call you "Dad!" Alex

I just had to post this pic of my dad because it gives you a really good sense of who he is......I took this Christmas morning while we were opening Christmas gifts. Dad is trying to act surprised by what he is opening so that I can get a memorable shot. Looks like clothes, so was probably not really that exciting. Thanks for playing along dad :).

Happy Father's Day to all the men in my life!!!! Jody, you are an awesome dad to our three kids. I see you loving them even when you think that I'm not looking. Thank you for giving so much of yourself to support them, play with them, and love them. You are an amazing daddy and I love you!!!

Dad, nice baseball pose. It never ends, does it? Love you! Mean it!

Popsie, you are one good-looking grandpa! Thank you for being a supportive grandfather through all of life's ups and downs. I love you!

Justin, well...... not sure what to say to you. I KNOW you will make an amazing daddy one day and I look forward to seeing all the beautiful red heads that you two are able to make.

Bay, no babies until you're 30. Period. It's not up for discussion.

Addie and Asher Turn 5!!!

I didn't get a chance to blog yesterday because I tried my best to really be in the moment and enjoy my kids. The reality of my children's ages and how quickly time is passing is really starting to get to me. These are the days to cherish, to laugh, to enjoy every minute of all that raising children has to offer. My children are such a gift and I don't want to blink or miss a second of it! So, I am just now letting you guys know about Addie and Asher's birthday. Of course we are having the gymnastics party on Saturday, but we did do a little bit of celebrating as a family yesterday. The babies (I will always call them this, even when they are my age :)!) started off their big day with sprinkled doughnuts. You can see by the first pic that we didn't even bother to brush hair before breakfast...

Mama was quick thinking yesterday, and we managed to throw on some clothes and make it to Regal for one of their free summer movies...Alvin and The Chipmunks. They do free movies most Tues. and Thurs. throughout the summer at 10am. You can google it and see the movie schedule! The kids loved this even though they watched this movie in the car the day before. They laughed so hard :). Of course, the free movie did not end up free as we had to have a medium popcorn and two sprites for all of us to share.....$16!!!!!! Can you believe that? Crazy! But, I think Asher ate half the bag by himself! This second pic is pre-movie!

After the movie we came home to swim and then we ate pizza as a family.....with the addition of Bay's friend Eli (of course)! Eli has been gone for two weeks on a European vacation so I couldn't deny Bay when they wanted to sleepover. Pizza and cake is always a nice treat for the Griffin kiddo's!!

Couldn't resist posting this pic I got of the babies. I will post individuals later, but wanted to share this rare moment where Addie actually agreed to kiss Asher. Of course, as soon as this picture was taken, Addie (like a true lady) lifted her shirt and used the hem to wipe off the kiss. She is so grossed out by kissing him! She is just so funny about being affectionate. If you are one of the lucky ones, enjoy every second of hugs or kisses you get.....they may be the last.

For Mandy-

On Saturday, my friend Mandy had the opportunity to get her daughter in the pool for the 1st time. Mahala was pretty timid at first...seemed like the water may have been a little cold. But, after some time in the pool with mama, she seemed to enjoy it!!! These pics are for you Mandy...hope you enjoy as much as I have! I'll be sure to put on a disc for you too! P. S. The bottom pic is a leftover from Memorial Day. That's our pastor Ya'll, and little Miss Mahala's daddy. Ha, Ha, Ha, Ha, Snort, Ha, Ha, Ha, Ha, Snort! Not sure what else to say???????

A few more pics of the first time in the new pool. The water was a little chilly, so Maverick took a break with a towel. Asher Guy, being the silly guy that he is, being goofy, closing his eyes, and marching off of the diving board!

Trying Out The New Pool!!!!!
This past Saturday we were finally able to give the new pool a try. Some of our very best friends and their kids came over to make sure it all works right. As you can see, it looks like the new pool passes the kid test. We had so much fun. Looking forward to many great memories around our new pool and can't wait for all of you to come enjoy :).


-Malachi trying out the new diving board
-Jody and Bay
-Mason with the water gun


-The last pic is Malachi again......he just looks so cute, I had to post!

A couple more pics of the new pool!

Pool Remodel
So, about a month ago, we started remodeling the pool. The original pool to the home, it was 29 years old, with four cracks and hideous bright blue tile. The concrete was pulling the sides away from the pool, and the tile was starting to fall off! Althougth I couldn't find a pic of what the pool looked like before, the one below is mid-remodel with the pool drained.
One month later........a new pool!!!! We also added a fire pit and a waterfall made out of rocks. Can't wait for all of you to come over to enjoy :)!!!

The Kite and the Professional Photographer

Yesterday on the beach the kids, Jody, Aunt Cha Cha, and Justin gave a shot at flying a kite. The conditions were just right...good wind, soft sand, and everyone seemed to be patient. The kids loved it and there were lots of laughs all around.......especially when Aunt Cha Cha didn't see the sand hole coming and completely fell head over heels in the sand. I had the video camera, but was focused on the kids. Apparently I blew our chances at winning tuition money from America's Funniest Home Videos....Jody said it was HILARIOUS! I about freaked out because, at one point, these ladies were just taking pictures of my kids and the attempt at kite flying. Turns out one was a professional photographer, and she took Cha Cha's camera and captured these fabulous pics. For Free!!! I think they are great and really capture all the fun of the Kite. One more day at the beach and then back to life. It's been a beautiful week!!!!!

Vacay Day 2.....Bay and Asher in first pic. I am in love with this picture and these boys. Is this precious or what?!?! You can see Bay's missing tooth perfect too! They are such handsome boys. I pray that they will grow up to be HIS boys too. They are enjoying God's beautiful creation on the beach!!!

Addie and Asher! Jody and myself.....wouldn't you know it, we get down here and I start running a fever and have a serious sore throat. Finally got some medicine last night and am hoping it will help. Otherwise, I'm off to find a clinic for a strep test. Such is my luck.
Addie Loo.......she is such the diva. She put this swimsuit on and said, "I look cute, don't I mommy?!" So funny....

Meme with Addie and Asher!

Bay and Mommy riding the waves....
Addie and Asher posing and then the bottom pic was nothing but luck......I caught them mid air jumping the waves!!!!!